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Tuesday, April 22, 2025
State of Illinois Treasurer: Mailbag
Welcome to "The Mailbag," which is your opportunity to ask me about topics like our programs, other state government functions, or anything else that interests you. After my recent Treasurer’s Note about computer scammers, several of you contacted me and shared your own experiences with some of the shameless people who operate scams. For example, one reader who said he “should know better” was deceived when he got a call from a scammer posing as a bank employee. The scammer said the victim’s bank account
Tuesday, April 22, 2025A Sweet Way to Save for Retirement
Illinois Secure Choice provides a way for small businesses to offer retirement savings programs to their workers, allowing employees to save for a dignified retirement. We’ve made it easy for employers to implement. Treasurer Michael Frerichs recently visited Bent Fork Bakery (click to watch video) in Highwood and talked with owners Liz and Mike Bearwald about how they’re helping their employees save for retirement through Illinois Secure Choice. Bent Fork began with Liz and Mike selling pound cakes to pay
Tuesday, April 22, 2025Navigate Your Way to a Brighter Financial Future
Did you know less than 25% of American high school students take a financial literacy course? Many enter adulthood with little knowledge of budgeting, debt management, or investing. That’s why the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office created the Illinois Financial Wellness Hub, also known as FinWell Hub, a free resource for Illinois residents to plan a brighter financial future. Sign up, assess your needs with a short quiz, and gain access to courses and articles on a range of topics — from buying your
Monday, April 14, 2025Lake County Flavor Festival Delivers Record-Breaking Success, Showcases Culinary and Libation Excellence
GURNEE, IL – The Lake County February Flavor Festival wrapped up its highly anticipated monthlong celebration with resounding success, spotlighting the county’s vibrant culinary and craft beverage scene. Organized by Visit Lake County (VLC), the second annual county-wide campaign drew thousands of food and drink enthusiasts, supporting more than 100 participating restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries throughout the region. The Flavor Festival offered residents and visitors a unique
Monday, April 14, 2025TIU to Transition TEDS Campus Ownership by END of 2025
Trinity International University (TIU) has announced that it will officially transfer ownership of its Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) to Trinity Western University (TWU) by December 21,2025. The Bannockburn campus will continue normal operations through the 2025-2026 academic year, after which TEDS will relocate to TWU's main campus in Langley, British Colombia. TIU cited the ongoing financial challenges of maintaining a campus originally designed for a smaller university as a key factor in
Monday, April 14, 2025New Wilmot Road Pathway to Enhance Pedestrian Access by Fall 2025
The village of Bannockburn has approved the Constuction of a new pedestrian pathway along Wilmot Road, stretching from Telegraph Road to North Avenue. The project scheduled for completion by September 2025, will improve walkability and connectivity for residents. Backed by a $25,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the USDA Forest Service, the initiative also includes the removal of invasive species such as buckthorn to enhance the health and appearance of the surrounding area,
Monday, April 14, 2025Bannockburn Hosts Arbor Day Celebration on April 25
Join the Village of Bannockburn for a community Arbor Day celebration on Friday, April 25 at 20a.m. in the open space behind Village Hall. The event will feature the ceremonial planting of a sycamore tree and a musical performance by Bannockburn School's K-2nd grade students. This year's celebration also marks Bannockburn's 34th consecutive recognition as a Tree City USA, along with receiving a Tree City USA Growth Award for the 4th time. The Village continues its strong commitment to tree preservation,
Monday, April 14, 2025April is National Safe Digging Month: Call 811 Before You DIg
April is National Safe Digging Month, a reminder to homeowners and contractors to always contact JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) before starting any digging project-no matter how big or small. Whether you're planting a tree, installing a fence, or working on a patio, it's essential to call 811 or visit www.JULIE1call.com at least two business days before you dig. This free service helps prevent accidents, injuries, and costly utility damage by ensuring underground lines are
Monday, April 14, 2025Hazel Avenue Infrastructure Project Continues with New Closures
The Hazel Avenue Infrastructure Project progresses with underground utility work and overhead line transfers completed west of Stratford Road. Beginning Wednesday, April 16, Hazel Avenue will fully close between Chestnut Street and Waukegan Road as construction shifts to the east end. Detours via Deerfield Road and Greenwood Avenue will be in effect through early July.
Monday, April 14, 2025Fields of Honor Display to Honor Veterans this November
From November 7-11, 2025, the Village of Deerfield will host a Field of Honor display at Jewett Park, featuring 500 American flags in tribute to veterans and active-duty service members, Residents may sponsor flags to honor persona; heroes. Proceeds support Midwest Veterans Closet and Lake County Honor Flight.
