Citizen Suburban Times Weekly 12-14-2022

Photo credit: Justin Sullivan // Getty Images

New state laws taking effect Jan. 1

Minimum wage hike, pets in public housing among new changes

Inflation is significantly stressing 75% of Americans—here’s how they’re making ends meet

Continued from page 1

Continued from page 1

Grocery prices

BY PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

SPRINGFIELD – Minimum wage workers in Illinois will see a boost in their hourly pay to $12 per hour starting Jan. 1, while tenants in affordable housing units will be allowed to keep pets.

Those are just some of the more than 300 new laws that take effect in the new year.

alone were more than 12% higher year-overyear in October. Paying just under $3 for a dozen eggs or $1 per pound more for chicken may seem nominal, but these increases add up quickly, forcing many people to make do with less.

The minimum wage increase is actually the result of a 2019 law that phases in a state minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025. This year, it will increase by one dollar to $12 an hour.

The law allowing public housing

Garth President / Publisher

Darrell Garth President / Publisher

Janice Garth Sales Manager/General Manager

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Janice Garth Sales Manager/ General Manager

BY: LAUREN LIEBHABER

Inflation hit its highest point in 40 years in June 2022, with prices for all consumer goods rising 9.1% over 12 months, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And while the October data shows that inflation is slowing down—consumer goods are now 7.7% higher year-over-year—it’s still significantly higher than the Federal Reserve’s desired 2% average.

tenants to keep pets is the result of Senate Bill 154, by Sen. Linda Holmes, D-Aurora, and Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego. It provides that tenants of multifamily housing units that are acquired, built or renovated with money from the Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund may keep up to two cats or one dog weighing less than 50 pounds.

For some, inflation may feel like a pinch—an involuntary eyebrow raise at check-out, a reason to budget more carefully. But for roughly 3 in 5 Americans already living paycheck-to-paycheck, already being supported by federal assistance programs, already depleting their savings if they have it, or maxing out credit cards to get by, the increasing prices can feel like a chokehold.

It applies to residents of housing units that are designated as affordable housing for low- and very-lowincome families. The bill passed both chambers in its final form on May 30 and Gov. JB Pritzker signed it into law Aug. 6.

The Federal Reserve plans to continue raising interest rates to control inflation. Many Americans paid down their credit card debt during the pandemic by using stimulus payments and spending less. But inflation appears to be reversing this progress. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, credit card balances saw their largest yearly percentage increase in over 20 years in quarter one of 2022. Additionally, credit limits saw their most significant increase in a decade, indicating that utilization frequency is up.

Saving accounts

- An estimated 28% of Americans are tapping their savings for basic spending

- Of this group, 87% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

School Lunch Act if schools were open.

While P-EBT benefits were meant to be a temporary stopgap, they have been expanded to assist families even with school back in session. For example, if students miss school due to COVID-19, their P-EBT cards will be loaded with an amount based on the number of days they missed to account for the meals they also missed.

Borrowing from friends or family

- An estimated 1% of Americans are borrowing from friends or family for basic spending

- Of this group, 93.88% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

Informal borrowing is up dramatically from one year ago, particularly among Black and Hispanic populations. Generationally, millennials are the most likely to seek financial assistance from family and friends.

Grocery prices alone were more than 12% higher year-over-year in October. Paying just under $3 for a dozen eggs or $1 per pound more for chicken may seem nominal, but these increases add up quickly, forcing many people to make do with less.

Other new laws include:

Vehicle taxes: SB58 raises the private vehicle tax, which is a sales tax paid on the purchase of vehicles, by $75 for each model year where the purchase price is less than $15,000 and by $100 for vehicles priced above that amount. However, the registration fee for trailers weighing less than 3,000 pounds will drop to $36 instead of $118.

Foothold Technology analyzed data from the Census Bureau’s latest Household Pulse Survey, released Nov. 29, to determine how Americans are making ends meet during this period of high inflation. The survey asked respondents to rate their level of stress (“Very stressful,” “Moderately stressful,” “A little stressful,” or “Not at all stressful”) caused by the increase in prices over the last two months. In this analysis, if respondents reported “Very stressful” or “Moderately stressful,” they were considered stressed by inflation.

College admissions: HB226, establishing the Higher Education Fair Admissions Act, prohibits public colleges and universities from requiring applicants to submit SAT, ACT or other standardized test scores as part of the admissions process, although prospective students may choose to submit them if they wish.

Previous Household Pulse Survey data suggests that specific population segments are feeling this stress more acutely than others. Young adults aged 18-39, who were already struggling to hit financial benchmarks like student debt pay-off and homeownership, are more concerned than older generations about inflation. Cisgender females are more stressed about inflation than their cisgender male counterparts, and people who identify as Hispanic or Latino are more stressed out about inflation than those who identify as Asian, Black, or white.

While many Americans were able to grow their savings during the pandemic in the absence of travel and leisure activities and regular daily expenditures, that growth is idling and, for some, reversing. People are saving less and dipping into their existing savings more, particularly over the last several months, according to the Ipsos-Forbes Advisor U.S. Consumer Confidence Tracker.

The median savings for people under 35, excluding retirement savings, is $3,240; for those 55-64, it is $6,400. But most Americans have savings lower than this, and many have none at all. A Bankrate survey conducted in January 2022 found that 56% of Americans could not cover a $1,000 surprise expense using their savings.

Unemployment checks

- 0.9% are using unemployment insurance benefits for basic spending - Of this group, 89% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

To avoid the awkwardness of borrowing from loved ones, some people have turned to predatory payday loans—which can come with interest rates over 500%—as a quick way to make ends meet. Experts urge people to resist the temptation of a temporary solution as it is only likely to bury one deeper in debt.

WIC benefits

-An estimated 2% of Americans are using WIC for basic food spending

-Of this group, 89% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

Like SNAP, WIC provides nutritional assistance to low- or no-income families. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children provides food packages for low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children under the age of 5 who are at risk of nutritional deficiencies, as determined by a professional assessment. These are the stages of child development and parental health where data says good nutrition is vital.

Participants receive personalized groceries based on their specific health needs delivered to their door or a voucher to purchase food themselves. The Department of Agriculture estimates over 6 million people participated in the WIC program in 2021, including more than 40% of all infants in the U.S.

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CST Weekly,published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issuesannually). W ritten permission isrequired to reproduce contents inwholeor part from the Generalmanager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibilityfor nor are weable to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is everyMonday at noon. For information on subscriptions oradvertising call us at (773)783-1251. Our office is locatedat 8741S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

CST Weekly,published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issuesannually). W ritten permission isrequired to reproduce contents inwholeor part from the Generalmanager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibilityfor nor are weable to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is everyMonday at noon. For information on subscriptions oradvertising call us at (773)783-1251. Our office is locatedat 8741S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

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Drug prices: SB1682 requires pharmacies to post a notice informing consumers that they may request current pharmacy retail prices at the point of sale.

The following list illustrates how Americans are getting by—such as borrowing from friends, utilizing their SNAP benefits, tapping savings, or utilizing credit cards and loans—and the stress levels of those relying on those methods.

There are just over 6 million unemployed Americans, but only some receive unemployment benefits. Applying for unemployment can be challenging and time-consuming, and only some are eligible. As a result, many people never take the time to apply Unemployment benefits temporarily replace a fraction of lost wages. Most workers are capped at 26 weeks. Some states like Iowa and Arkansas stop payouts after 16 weeks.

Deferred and forgiven payments

SNAP benefits

- An estimated 7% of Americans are using SNAP for basic food spending

Normal household income

- An estimated 65% of Americans are using normal household income for basic spending

- Of this group, an estimated 72% are “moderately stressed” or “very stressed” by increased prices

So far, most Americans have stayed financially afloat simply by using their regular household income without needing to access federal assistance programs or going into debt. But this doesn’t mean people are thriving.

FOID card changes: HB562 enacts several changes to the Firearm Owner Identification card law. Among other things, it provides for a streamlined renewal process for FOID cards and Concealed Carry Licenses for people who voluntarily submit fingerprint records. It also allows the Illinois State Police to issue a combined FOID card and Concealed Carry License to qualified applicants, and it establishes a new Violent Crime Intelligence Task Force to take enforcement action against people with revoked FOID cards.

A September survey by LendingClub found 45% of people earning $100,000 a year or more report living paycheck to paycheck as inflation negates wage growth, up from 38% a year ago. Similarly, around 62% of survey respondents earning $50,000-$100,000 per year reported living paycheck-to-paycheck—up from 57% last year.

- An estimated 3% of Americans are using money from deferred or forgiven payments for basic spending - Of this group, 87% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

The pause on student loan payments during the COVID-19 pandemic provided needed relief to many people. But those payments are expected to resume in January. Some Americans eligible for President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan are beginning to receive refund checks for payments made during the pandemic forbearance period.

- Of this group, 91% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which serves more than 41 million Americans, is a federal program that provides low- or no-income households with a monthly grocery stipend. Program participants receive Electronic Balance Transfer cards, similar to debit cards, which they can use at participating retailers.

to the appropriate school support personnel.

However, experts recommend people hold off on spending that money because of the legal challenges the plan is facing. If Biden’s plan is ultimately shot down in court, the outstanding debt, including refunded payments, must be repaid.

Meal cards

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Credit cards and loans

- An estimated 32% of Americans are using credit cards and loans for basic spending

Official flags: HB605 requires state agencies and institutions to purchase Illinois and American flags that are made in the United States.

- Of this group, 86% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

For Americans relying on credit to make ends meet, record-high interest rates compound the complexity of their financial woes. Bankrate data showed the average credit card interest rate to be 19.04% as of Nov. 9, 2022—the highest rate since 1991.

Student mental health: HB576 and SB1577 allow students in Illinois up to five excused absences to attend to their mental or behavioral health without providing a medical note. Those students will be given an opportunity to make up any work they missed during the first absence and, after using a second mental health day, may be referred

- An estimated 4% of Americans are using school meal debit/EBT cards for basic food spending

- Of this group, 90% are “moderately” or “very stressed” by increased prices

Hair styles: SB817 prohibits discrimination in schools against individuals on the grounds of wearing natural or ethnic hairstyles, which include dreadlocks, braids, twists and afros.

Lemonade stands: SB119 prohib-

its public health authorities from regulating or shutting down lemonade stands or similar operations that are operated by children under the age of 16. Known as “Hayli’s Law,” it was inspired by 12-year-old Hayli Martinez, whose lemonade stand in Kankakee was shut down by local officials.

As the name suggests, this benefit intends to boost shoppers’ purchasing capacity to afford nutritious program-approved foods like fruits, vegetables, and proteins, rather than covering grocery expenses entirely. For eligible people, the monthly stipends depend on household size, income, and assets and are adjusted annually for inflation. In response to record-high hikes in food prices over the last year, SNAP benefits were raised, and eligibility was expanded on Oct. 1, 2022.

United States. In June, President Joe Biden also signed a bill designating Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

This story originally appeared on Foothold Technology and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.

Story name: Inflation is significantly stressing 75% of Americans—here’s how they’re making ends meet

Juneteenth: HB3922 recognizes June 19, or “Juneteenth,” as an official state holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the

For families who rely on schools to provide lunch and sometimes breakfast for their children, pandemic school closures meant a potential gap in important daily nutrition. Pandemic Electronic Balance Transfer cards provided families with supplemental funds to purchase food for children who were eligible for and would have received free or reduced-price meals under the National

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Written by: Lauren Liebhaber

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government and distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

Description: Foothold Technology analyzed data from the Census Bureau’s latest Household Pulse Survey, released Nov. 29, to determine how Americans are making ends meet during record-high inflation.

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Janice

Gov. JB Pritzker is shown here earlier this year in a Capitol News Illinois file photo. The governor signed more than 300 bills that become law on Jan. 1. (Capitol News Illinois file photo)

McDonald’s USA Partners with Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and Alkeme to Deepen Its Commitment to Support HBCU Students Financial and Mental Health Needs

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- McDonald’s has remained committed to feeding and fostering communities when they need it most, starting with a warm meal and a smile. As part of this commitment, the company has long supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through departmental funding, sports sponsorships and student scholarships.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the Golden Arches, with its Owner/Operators and partners, will increase resources and investment to more HBCU students through the Black & Positively Golden Scholarship Program, providing access to mental health resources and awarding $1 million in scholarships, up from $500,000 in 2022. College students should be able to focus on their studies and create unforgettable memories with new friends, but socioeconomic and pandemic-related concerns continue to impact Black students at HBCUs, leaving many in need of financial and mental health aid. As stated in a May 2022 study by the American Psychological Association, “HBCU students report that student loan repayment, financial assistance and education, and future educational expenses, are major contributing factors to stress.” So, McDonald’s partnered with Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and Alkeme to relieve some of this pressure.

“As HBCU students invest in their future and passions, McDonald’s and its franchisees remain committed to providing the tools and resources they need to help them succeed, “said Courtney Holeman, Greater Richmond, Virginia McDonald’s Franchisee. “Through meaningful partnerships like this, we can ensure students are well-equipped to confidently manage their finances and care for their mental health on their journey to academic success.”

Recipients will also receive a year-long subscription to Alkeme, a Black-owned streaming platform that provides therapist and expert-led wellbeing courses, guided meditation and livestream sessions centered around the Black experience. Through this new partnership with Alkeme, students will be able to access curated customized content and resources that center the HBCU experience and empower students to achieve their personal goals.

Applications are open now through March 27, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST to incoming and current

HBCU students at tmcf.org, with winners being announced in Summer 2023.

“It’s important to build a community of culturally competent practitioners who truly understand and represent the Black experience to best support the needs of Black students,” said Ryan Mundy, founder of Alkeme Health. “We want to empower our community to be the best and highest versions of themselves, and that is why we are honored to partner with McDonald’s to help remove mental health barriers for HBCU students and provide resources to inspire wellness.”

Launched in 2020 to help HBCU students across the country break through financial barriers of achieving education in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Black & Positively Golden Scholarship Program is committed to supporting and empowering the next generation of leaders across the country through monetary support and resources.

“The Thurgood Marshall College Fund is dedicated to helping transform the lives of students at HBCUs by preparing them for the next generation of leadership in the workforce and in life,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, President and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF). “We, alongside our more than 20-yearlong partners at McDonald’s, remain committed to providing the support needed for Black students to succeed at all levels.”

Students interested in applying for the Black & Positively Golden Scholarship Program must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Be 18 years old or older

Be enrolled full-time as a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior attending an HBCU during the 2023-2024 academic school year

Have a current cumulative grade point average of 2.7 or higher

Demonstrate leadership abilities and financial need

Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident with a valid permanent resident card or passport stamped I-551

To learn more about our Black & Positively Golden movement and scholarship, follow @wearegolden on Instagram and visit www.blackandpositivelygolden.com.a

New Report: Black Washingtonians identify community solutions to longstanding structural inequities

SEATTLE — The Black Future Co-op Fund, Washington state’s first Black-led cooperative philanthropy, today released a monumental report, Black Well-being: Moving Toward Solutions Together. It aims to inform policy change, support collective organizing and direct resources into building Black generational wealth, health and well-being statewide.

“This Black Well-being report is a tool for advocacy and policy change and for building power,” said Andrea Caupain Sanderson, co-architect of the Black Future Co-op Fund. “It is time we implement our own community solutions to manifest Black well-being statewide. The current systems are failing us—they were designed that way.”

The report elevates community identified approaches to tackle structural barriers prohibiting Black well-being and that will result in the world Black people envision. It starts with an overview of who makes up the state’s diverse Black population, followed by perceptions of progress, priorities and key metrics that have moved since a 2015 report by Byrd Barr Place, Creating an Equitable Future in Washington State: Black Well-being & Beyond. The rest of the report covers civic engagement, education, economic mobility, public safety and health, outlining contextual factors and community approaches.

“The process of engaging with Black communities across the state to gather the recommendations found in this report illustrates an inherent desire of Black Washingtonians to be involved in developing solutions to longstanding disparities that adversely affect us,” said T’wina Nobles, CEO and co-architect of the Black Future Co-op Fund and Washington state senator, 28th L.D. “Our collective power will certainly propel us forward in galvanizing for positive change.”

Research in the Black Well-being report shows that even if the conditions for building wealth, like equal pay, access to capital, healthy housing and education, were the same for Black people and white people from 1870 to 2020, white households would still have three times as much wealth as Black households.

What the data shows:

Only 1.5% of Washington’s teachers were Black in the 2020-21 school year. Yet, research shows Black students who have at least one Black teacher in grades K-3 are 13% more likely to graduate from high school and 19% more likely to enroll in college than their same-school, same-race peers.

Homeownership—a critical path to wealth-building—was 34% for Black Washingtonians in 2020, almost half of the statewide average of 63.3%.

Despite 93% of Black Washingtonians having health care insurance, the 37% on Medicaid experience major gaps in coverage, limiting their access to care.

A 2022 audit by the Office of the State Auditor discovered that Black voters’ ballots were rejected four times more often than white voters.

Examples of community identified approaches include:

Dismantle systems that harm us and replace them with systems that heal. Center the arts in civics because they are foundational to social change.

Redefine academic standards to recognize and cultivate Black brilliance.

Partner with Black youth to create the jobs of tomorrow

Reflect well-being in employer business models and practices.

The Black Well-being report is grounded in listening and learning from Black Washingtonians, which has included:

Focus groups with community leaders across the state on five topic areas from which common themes were distilled.

A statewide survey of more than 600 Black Washingtonians about priorities, perceptions of progress, and definitions of leadership and accountability.

Panel discussions around the five topic areas to discuss the survey results and community approaches that work for Black communities.

A statewide gathering, featuring the five panel conversations, speakers and artists to explore the themes and community-identified approaches; more than 150 watch parties tuned in online and 75 people participated in person at Seattle, Tacoma and Spokane.

Black Well-being report collaborators include Byrd Barr Place, Cardea, Imago, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, Washington State Budget & Policy Center and Washington State Commission on African American Affairs.

Created by and for Black Washingtonians, the Black Future Co-op Fund is a new paradigm for philanthropy to ignite Black wealth, health, and well-being over generations. Through intentional investment, the Fund works to connect Black communities for collective power, promote a truthful Black narrative, and uplift Black-led solutions that foster Black generational prosperity.

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Unveiling of the gourmet program of MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE

MONTREAL, PRNewswire -- MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE, presented in collaboration with Scotiabank, is thrilled to announce that the 24th edition of the festival will be held from February 16 to March 5, under the theme Discover the best of Montreal in winter!

Once again this year, festival-goers will be able to skate on the magnificent Ice Skating Loop high above Place des Festivals, bask in the glow light installations, ride the Grande roue and take advantage of tons of free activities during spring break. It will also mark the 20th anniversary of Nuit blanche, with multiple shows happening in venues throughout the Quartier des spectacles. In short, we’ll be pulling out all the stops to help you rediscover our beautiful and dynamic downtown!

The Gastronomy programming, presented by Scotia Wealth Management returns to share its legendary hospitality once again. Some 40 Montréal restaurants and venues will be welcoming international and local chefs and producers, while downtown will be buzzing with gourmet activities. The theme of this joyous and welcoming 24th edition says it all: Montréal is inviting you over!

“This edition of MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE promises to strengthen the four pillars of its mission: to celebrate gastronomy, present new shows and unite crowds with such inclusive and participative winter activities as ice skating. We have everything it takes to prove that Montréal offers a warm welcome, even in the heart of winter,” said Jacques Primeau, Festival General Manager.

ON THE MENU THIS YEAR: Air France Finest Tables

Invite a chef, a wine grower or a producer from here or abroad, pair them with one of the city’s restaurants and let this special mix work its magic in kitchens and venues city-wide: that’s the hugely successful recipe behind the Air France Finest Tables, which is back better than ever this year. In 2023, Montréal welcomes France, Canada, Italia, Belgium, Switzerland and Scandinavia: more than 30 chefs, including a dozen chefs from northern Europe, will be here to dazzle us with their creativity. Among them are Benoit Neusy (Michelin star chef, restaurant l’Impératif au Domaine d’Arondeau, France) at La Chronique, Romain Meder (Michelin star chef, Domaine de Primard, Guainville, France) at Mastard, Ina Niiniketo (Sikke’s, Helskinki) at Ratafia, and Lionel Lévy (Michelin star chef, InterContinental Marseille) at Osco! Wine growers, such as Julien Labet, who will be welcomed by Menu Extra, and Laurent Cazottes at Chez Victoire, will also be joining in the festivities. In addition to traditional tasting menus, the Air France Finest Tables will feature other palate-popping experiences, such as exclusive lunches, brunches, 5 à 7 (happy hours), not to mention delicious confections in partnership with Cacao Barry and Esprits libres, a rare treat for those with a sweet tooth out there.

Couette & Gastronomie Packages

While tourists from here and afar spend summers exploring the many regions of Québec, in winter it’s a different story as the city turns into a pulsing hub with

the one-of-a-kind urban experiences of MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE. Once again this year, visitors will love the popular Couette & Gastronomie Packages. Hotels and restaurants will be taking part to whet everyone’s appetites with gourmet tasting experiences indoors.

Les Apéros MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE, presented by Vins Côtes du Rhône and hosted by Michelle Bouffard in the charming setting of L’Arrière-Scène in Esplanade Tranquille, will take place Feb. 16-26.

Then, a conference on culinary identity, in partnership with the Société du réseau ÉCONOMUSÉE (February 23), will round out the menu. Tickets for these special events will be on sale soon at montrealenlumiere.com.

There will also be À table avec Jean-Paul Riopelle presented by Air France, whose 100th birthday we celebrate this year. A unique menu will be crafted to reflect this unifying and collaborative painter. This exceptional gourmet event will take place February 22 at Toqué restaurant, near the artwork La Joute at Place Jean-Paul Riopelle. Reservations will be open from January 22, 2023 via Toqué! restaurant.

“Scotiabank places arts and culture at the heart of its community engagement in Quebec, as we know that the artistic and business communities uplift and enrich each other. Our partnership with MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE allows us to support storytellers that greatly contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of Montreal. We are also proud to be associated with their gastronomic programming, which features a diverse range of chefs from various cultures,” said Geneviève Brouillard, Senior Vice President for Québec and Eastern Ontario.

The 2023 edition of MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE would not be possible without the support of its esteemed partners and sponsors. Thanks to Scotiabank for continuing to highlight the invaluable work of Montréal’s gastronomic institutions, Loto-Québec, the Société des alcools du Québec, the Société de transport de Montréal, Air France, Tim Hortons, the Association des hôtels du Grand Montréal, Place des Arts, host of Quartier Gourmand, as well as our media partners Radio-Canada and La Presse.

The 24th edition of MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE will take place from February 16 to March 5, 2023, in the Quartier des spectacles. For more information, visit montrealenlumiere.com.

MOTORCAR CAVALCADE MIAMI ANNOUNCES PREVIEW OF STAR CARS AND VIP PANEL OF JUDGES FOR THIS YEAR’S EPIC EXTRAVAGANZA

MIAMI, PRNewswire -- Motorcar Cavalcade, the must-attend event for every automobile enthusiast from connoisseur to the car-curious, announces its preliminary lineup of celebrity judges and a peek into the vibrant collection of the automobiles, from iconic vintage classics to modern exotics. The event, now in its second year, will be held on the lush fairway of the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort’s golf course on January 15th in Aventura, Miami.

The 2023 event judges are VIP celebrities, sports stars and some of the world’s leading automotive figures including Motorsports Hall of Fame racing legends Lyn St. James and Tommy Kendall. Other influential individuals have been confirmed as judges such as former Miami Heat basketball player Alonzo Mourning, auction house Phillips Watches’ Head of Americas Paul Boutros, and General Motors Designer Wayne Kady, to name a few.

“This year’s Motorcar Cavalcade will be nothing short of incredible,” says Jason Wenig, Motorcar Cavalcade Co-Executive Director. “We have a lineup of cars never-before-seen in South Florida and are thrilled to have our esteemed judges including former female race car driver Lyn St. James involved in the Concours.” Lyn will be the Saturday Car Rally Honoree and lead the procession. She will also be involved in a “Fireside Chat” during the event to talk about women in motorsports and in leadership roles in the car world and beyond.

Adding a Hollywood touch to this year’s Concours is the extremely rare yet distinctly recognizable 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder, used in the 1986 movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and brought to the show by Hagerty. Laurent-Perrier will host a lounge serving the brand’s fine champagne while also showcasing their pink 1968 Citroen DS, aptly named “Bubbles,” which coincides with the year in which the champagne house launched their Cuvée Rosé. Other sponsors include Warren Henry Auto Group, Regent Cruises, Fraser Yachts, Hennessey Performance Engineering, and Hagerty. In an exciting debut, Hennessey will unveil its new Venom 5 Roadster, a bespoke hypercar engineered to exceed 300 mph as the world’s most exhilarating open-air driving experience.

The full list of participating vehicles will be announced closer to the event, with this year’s impressive collection of cars expected to closely align with the calibre of winning vehicles from last year’s show, such as the 1921 Kissel Gold Bug (Executive Committee Award), a 1934 Bugatti Type 57 Cabriolet (Docent Judge & Cockpit Award), a 1961 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet (ALZ Sponsor Award), and the 1933 Rolls Royce Phantom II (Best in Show - Classic & Lights Award). Highlights of the modern marvels were the 2020 Apollo IE (Paint Award), 2020 Koenigsegg Regera (Finish Award), and 2021 Pagani Huayra Roadster BC (Best in Show – Modern & Mirrors Awards).

Motorcar Cavalcade kicks off on January 14th with a Speed & Style Rally, a driving tour for participants to take their vehicles for a spin as part of an award-ribbon event. Upwards of 40 thoroughbred cars and passengers will be treated to a magnificent sightseeing journey through Miami, with stops at exclusive venues, allowing onlookers to witness the beauty and majesty of a Cavalcade of Cars. The tour concludes in grand style at the prestigious Bentley Residences for an intimate brunch.

Limited ticketing is available to the general public for $575 for the Sunday Concours, giving attendees an opportunity for a bit of overindulgence with all gourmet cuisine, cocktails and champagne included during the all-day event. Motorcar Cavalcade has partnered with the American Cancer Society, and will hold a digital auction with 100% of the proceeds donated to the ACS. Entrant vehicle participation in the Concours is by Selection Committee approval. Due to the unique design of this Concours, any vehicle of provenance, both historic and current production models, can be submitted for consideration.

www.motorcarcavalcade.com

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE (CNW Group/MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE)

Motorcar Cavalcade Imagery (PRNewsfoto/Motorcar Cavalcade)

UNLESS COLLECTIVE PARTNERS WITH NFW TO DEBUT WORLD’S FIRST REGENERATIVE SNEAKER

“THE DEGENERATE”

PORTLAND, Ore., PRNewswire -- UNLESS Collective, the world’s first 100% plant-and-mineral-based fashion brand, has partnered with NFW (Natural Fiber Welding), a plant-based material innovation company, to debut the world’s first regenerative sneaker – the best shoe for the planet.

The UNLESS DEGENERATE is made with 100% plants and minerals and zero plastic and is created to harmlessly decompose at the end of its life to birth something entirely new. It is the first product to feature all of NFW’s revolutionary plant-based material technologies that are durable enough for outsoles and soft enough for cushioning goals. Everything about this regenerative sneaker, from the plant-based leather to the natural rubber outsole to the tips of the laces, is made entirely from plants and minerals.

The DEGENERATE is the latest offering from UNLESS designed to attack the problem of plastic waste in the fashion industry. More than 24 billion pairs of shoes are made every year and 300 million pairs are thrown away. The vast majority of shoes are made with plastics and other petrochemicals, which break down into harmful micro-plastics that find their way into our rivers and oceans, our food and even our bodies.

The skate-inspired statement sneaker is durable, comfortable and, unlike conventional sustainable footwear, contains zero plastics or petrochemicals. The DEGENERATE features a cleaned up, stripped down upper with a deep cup-sole to create a strong, simple silhouette inspired by UNLESS’ birthplace: the Pacific Northwest.

UNLESS takes responsibility for everything that it makes and ensures all their products can be repaired, recycled or harmlessly decomposed at the end of their useful life.

“The DEGENERATE is for anyone who doesn’t want to compromise their style to do what’s right for the planet.,” said Eric Liedtke, co-founder and CEO of UNLESS Collective. “And thanks to NFW’s unparalleled innovation in plant-based material technology, this sneaker will live a long, useful life … and when it’s no longer useful, it will be turned into valuable inputs for new soil products, allowing UNLESS to use the decomposition process to birth something entirely new.”

The DEGENERATE combines NFW’s PLIANT™ for the outsole, TUNERA™ foam for the internal midsole, CLARUS® for the vamp and quarter, and MIRUM® for the eyelet and mudguard, along with low-impact textiles like linen, cotton embroidered lace tips, coconut husk, tencel and thread.

“NFW is excited to partner with UNLESS to create a breakthrough in lifestyle sneaker design, with the first-ever product to combine all of NFW’s biobased materials to create a 100% plant-and-mineral-based shoe,” said Luke Haverhals, founder and CEO of NFW. “This is the first shoe of its kind made with entirely natural inputs that is truly circular, meaning it can be recycled or safely returned to nature to become nutrients for healthy soil or provide inputs for the next cycle of consumer products.”

The UNLESS DEGENERATE is available in off-white and black colorways for $139 at UNLESSCollective.com. The first drop of this limited-edition sneaker is expected to sell out quickly, customers can sign up for the email list on UNLESSCollective.com for future restocks.

UNLESS is a regenerative fashion company. UNLESS makes statement clothing and footwear from all plants, no plastic and operates the world’s first regenerative fashion platform — connecting material, design, manufacturing and composting to use plant-based innovation and production ingenuity to solve for a plastic-free future. Visit https://unlesscollective.com for more information.

NFW’s beautiful and practical nutrient-based materials are highly scalable, sustainable solutions that are transforming industries. NFW is reducing overdependence on petrochemical inputs and linear life cycles by using plants in inherently circular, efficient ways. NFW delivers ultimate performance so that brand customers do not have to compromise. NFW was founded in 2015 and is based in Peoria, Illinois. To learn more, please visit: www.naturalfiberwelding.com.

Scottie Pippen and Orange Comet Team Up For Exclusive Metawear Digital Sneakers Collaboration

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Orange Comet, Inc., a leading Web3 entertainment company, announces its collaboration with basketball legend Scottie Pippen, celebrating the Hall of Famer’s love for the game and his passion for sneakers. This original, dynamic, and limited edition collection marks Orange Comet’s debut into digital wearable fashion. The virtual wearable cross-platform sneakers combined with exciting utility introduces web3 and sneakerhead audiences to digital wearables for the future with “Metawear.”

Orange Comet’s uber design team has created a series of unique worlds where digital and physical wearables will be born from: Modern Day, Futurist, Transcendent, and Planetary. Each NFT sneaker will not only feature Orange Comet’s signature 3D animations, but it will also be built as a Metaverse-Ready digital asset – ready to be worn in just about any ecosystem.

This special limited collection, dropping December 20th on OpenSea, will consist of only 1000 pairs of Pippen Sneaker NFTs, known as the SP33 Collection. Inspired by Pippen’s incredible legacy, the company continues to elevate fan experiences — in and out of the metaverse — uniting one of the greatest NBA players of all time with fans in innovative and interactive ways never seen before.

“I’m so excited to bring my fans a newfound way to be part of my life, my basketball career, and my love of sneakers through this special NFT collaboration with Orange Comet,” said Basketball Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen. “I’m deeply committed to staying connected with audiences everywhere and the metaverse is making that possible by enabling unique and out-of-the-box moments that bring people into my world on a personal level. This is such an interesting time in culture and it’s been an eye-opening journey learning about web3, and then getting to work with Orange Comet’s creative team to launch this special and personal collection that speaks to the future of fan engagement and sneaker culture.”

This exclusive partnership with Pippen highlights Orange Comet’s first foray into the fashion space as the company is making significant investments in its “Metawear” business to be known as Orange Comet Cørrupted, which will include HardWear for physical products and SoftWear

for digital products, digital wearables, and digital experiences. Cørrupted wear will feature extraordinary one-of-a-kind wearables and in partnership with some of the biggest collaborations the industry has ever seen.

Announced by Scottie Pippen on December 1, the collection combines Pippen’s love for sneakers, his basketball legacy, and his curiosity into web3 through the creation of his first metawear sneaker line with Orange Comet. All 1000 sneaker NFT holders will receive metaverse ready digital assets—ready to be worn in many different virtual ecosystems—plus additional utility benefits. Accompanying each pair of sneakers is a mystery box that can be claimed by each holder, which will be unlocked in 2023 for those who hold on to it until the future reveal. The mystery box is intended to be a work-of-art, all on its own. Additionally, all 1000 owners of these metawear sneakers will get Allow List access to Orange Comet’s Cørrupted physical and digital wearables coming in 2023.

The collection features exciting premium and rare utility. One (1) NFT holder (plus their one guest) will get a VIP hometown tour with Scottie Pippen to see where the legacy started. The experience includes a private dinner with the NBA legend. Two (2) NFT holders (each with a guest) at random will receive a private golf outing with Scottie Pippen that includes a lunch after the 18 exciting holes. Thirty-three (33) NFTs holders will be randomly selected to receive a pair of physical sneakers autographed by Scottie, and additional thirty-three (33) holders will receive a QR Code to redeem $100 off any purchase from a notable sneaker lifestyle brand.

Currently, fans can sign up for exclusive early access to this NFT collection via the Scottie Pippen Allow List on ScottiePippenNFTs.com. In addition to early access, three hundred and thirty three (333) allowlist members’ wallets will be randomly selected to receive a future free special edition Pippen NFT basketball presented in a state-of-the-art glass case, a true masterpiece on its own, designed by Orange Comet, gifted from Scottie Pippen to his allowlist members.

For the latest information and early looks at these sneaker designs, fans can visit Orange Comet’s Scottie Pippen NFT collection at ScottiePippenNFTs.com.

PRNewsfoto/Orange Comet

The DEGENERATE. PRNewsFoto.

Tips to Help Families Manage Holiday Stress

1Manage expectations.

The commotion that often comes with the holiday season can be stressful for young children, but you can help alleviate worries by familiarizing them with what’s to come. Talk to them about upcoming travel arrangements, who they’ll see at events and what to expect throughout the season. If they are cautious in their current developmental stage, let loved ones know beforehand to give them a little extra space at festivities. Parents can also begin familiarizing little ones with relatives through photos and phone calls.

2Empower children.

It’s important for children to understand they have a choice – and family members are willing to respect that choice. Parents should acknowledge their children’s body language and empower them to say “no” in uncomfortable situations. Parents can help by proactively asking questions such as, “Do you want a hug?” and if they say “no,” support them in their

decision. This also helps establish healthy long-term social skills.

3Maintain your schedule.

Children thrive on consistency, and during the holidays it’s important to at least try maintaining as much of what they’re used to as possible, such as naps, meals and playtime. Changes in schedule can result in more tantrums, so be sure to allow space for them to safely work through their emotions.

It’s also important to note that children feed off their parents’ energy, so make sure you’re in tune with your own emotions. When overwhelmed, openly discuss how you’re feeling and involve your children when taking breaks. For example, “It’s loud in here, would you like to go sit outside with me?”

4Have fun.

Make time to spread joy and integrate activities to bond as a family, such as reading holiday-themed

books, crafting, playing games, singing or baking. Whether old traditions or new, these are moments your child can cherish for years to come.

5Keep others in mind.

While it’s important to set children up for success ahead of the holidays, parents should also teach children the holiday season can look different for others. Putting a focus on experiences rather than the gifts can help them have more to discuss with their peers when returning to school. It’s also a good time to consider donating toys to make room for new ones or volunteering at a local charity to show children joy can be experienced through more than just gifts.

To find more tips to help manage holiday stress, or to access additional resources around social development, setting boundaries and routines, visit KinderCare.com.

(Family Features) ’Tis the season for holiday parties, travel, hosting and more. While it is a joyous time of year, the never-ending to-do lists and school being out of session can make everyone feel a little overwhelmed, children included. Consider these five practical tips from the experts at KinderCare to help families proactively manage holiday stressors.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Sen. Warnock’s Victory Is a Win for Georgia and America

By Ben Jealous

If you haven’t watched Sen. Raphael Warnock’s speech on the night of his reelection in Georgia on December 6, stop everything you’re doing, and watch it now. Then tell your kids to watch it. And your neighbors.

What you’ll see is 20 minutes that will leave you with a deep feeling of inspiration and gratitude, and a question: why was this so hard? How is it that Warnock was so clearly the best candidate and had to prove it four times, in the last two years?

Let’s take the question first.

The surprise victories by Sen. Warnock and Sen. Jon Ossoff in 2021 were triumphs over systemic racism and a vicious misinformation and disinformation campaign by far-right forces. Immediately after they won, Georgia became ground zero for a state voter suppression effort that included harsh crackdowns on early and mail-in voting. The runoff system that Warnock and Republican Herschel Walker were forced into was itself a relic of 1960s white supremacy. It was created by a Georgia segregationist who hoped it would stop Black candidates from winning in a crowded field where white votes were split.

Meanwhile, Walker’s entire campaign was a far-right ploy to split Black votes while giving white Republicans plausible deniability about their party’s racism. Most Black voters saw right through it. But the GOP mustered enormous political firepower and financial resources for their scheme. That made the race close when it never should have been close.

It made Sen. Warnock’s road, which was always going to be hard, even harder.

On the night of his reelection, Sen. Warnock addressed all of this with his usual dignity. He gave the credit to Georgians for electing the state’s first Black and first Jewish senators at a time when the Far Right was trying to divide the country. He took on the

conservative pundits claiming his victory was proof that there was no voter suppression in Georgia. Just because Georgia voters endured long lines in the rain doesn’t mean there is no suppression, he said. It means Georgians refused to have their voices silenced.

The rest of his address showed that Georgia has reelected a senator who values social justice and still believes it can be achieved through representative democracy. Democracy, he said, is the political enactment of a spiritual idea: that each of us carries within us a divine spark. It is a political system that is rooted in the belief that each of us has value, that if we have value we have a voice, and that our voice is our vote. I’m paraphrasing here, and words on the page don’t do justice to Sen. Warnock’s oratory skills. Again, I hope you’ll watch the speech.

Hearing these words at a time when democracy is doubted and under attack is a restorative experience. Hearing Sen. Warnock pledge to work in a bipartisan spirit on behalf of all Americans feels like coming home, to an America where public servants used to believe that was possible. Hearing him say that he will fight for criminal justice reform because he believes we can have both justice and safety struck a personal chord with me. I believe that too, in my bones. My organization, People For the American Way, has dedicated itself to advancing that goal. There are so many solutions we can and should explore that will save lives.

This moment shows us something else, too, which is that a way forward to a better America now runs through the Deep South. Stacey Abrams’s visionary work to organize voters made Georgia a swing state, and others can follow. Almost a decade ago, I worked on a study that showed that registering just 30 percent of unregistered voters of color could change the political landscape in heavily Black southern states. There are still plenty of challenges, but we’re seeing that prediction come true.

CHANCE THE RAPPER & SOCIALWORKS KICKS OFF ITS 4TH ANNUAL “A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM”

Chance the Rapper is ushering in the holidays with the announcement of SocialWorks’ 4th Annual A Night at the Museum Event taking place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, December 16th, at the Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 DuSable Lake Shore Drive. At ‘A Night at the Museum’ (ANATM), SocialWorks and Chance the Rapper reimagine the Museum of Science and Industry as a holiday wonderland. Guests will engage with 50+ event-only vendors, activations, performers, unique Chance opportunities, SocialWorks’ updates, and explore the 400K square foot museum and its exhibits after hours.

The evening acts as a home for giving. A Night at the Museum serves as a donation hub for SocialWorks’ Warmest Winter clothing drive, benefitting Chicagoans experiencing homelessness. All guests are encouraged to bring warming items - coats, scarves, gloves, toys, hygiene items, etc. - to help clothe the most individuals in need. Through thoughtfulness and unity, A Night at the Museum presents an evening filled with family-friendly fun and holiday cheer fueling SocialWorks’ annual Warmest Winter campaign.

SocialWorks’ Warmest Winter aims to provide relief for individuals experiencing homelessness through service, events, and direct support. The annual initiative begins with a Chicagoland area donation drive starting in October, with ‘A Night at the Museum’ as the last time to collect donations publicly. SocialWorks then sorts, counts, and distributes items to shelters and families in need between January and March, the worst of Chicago’s winter season. The Warmest Winter initiative has collected over 156K warming items, directly affecting 81 unique shelters throughout the Chicagoland area. The Warmest Winter campaign has also partnered with Universoul Circus, Top Fashion, Chicago Park District, and more outside of the usual winter campaign to connect low-income families and those experiencing homelessness to the joys of Chicago. “We’re excited to share the building with over 50+ vendors and showcase some surprises. Thank you to Ben & Jerry’s and all our sponsors and guests attending; your support will help us warm Chicago in the coming months.” shares Justin Cunningham, Executive Director of SocialWorks.

Ben and Jerry’s is among the many supporters of ‘A Night at the Museum.’ As a key sponsor and vendor of this year’s A Night of the Museum event, attendees can expect to see Ben & Jerry’s and Chance the Rapper’s ice cream, Mint Chocolate Chance. Guests can also expect make-and-takes, movie screenings, giveaways, performances from notable Chicago artists, and the full range of the Museum of Science & Industry for the price of admission. Those looking to purchase tickets to ‘A Night at the Museum’ can do so via black-owned ticket company EventNoire.

Tickets are available via https://eventnoire.com/e/anatm2022. To learn more about A Night at the Museum and SocialWorks’ Warmest Winter Initiative, follow @socialworks_chi and visit their website, www. socialworkschi.org.

Lottery

‘Tis the season to gift responsibly.

games aren’t for kids.

Gi Smart.

Pension debt grows to $139.7 billion

All five pension funds saw losses in FY 2022

By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois’ unfunded pension liability grew by $9.8 billion, or 7.5 percent, in the fiscal year that ended June 30, due in large part to market losses in a volatile economy.

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability reported Thursday that the total unfunded liability in the state’s five pension funds reached a total of $139.7 billion, leaving them with a funded ratio of just 44.1 percent.

Those numbers are based on an annual report from the state actuary, who reviews the preliminary financial data submitted by each of the five funds.

The funded ratio reflects the difference in the market value of the funds’ assets and the amount of money the funds would need to immediately pay all members the full amounts of benefits they are owed for the rest of time.

Although that’s an important measure of the systems’ long-term financial health, it does not reflect their current ability to pay out benefits that are owed. All five of the pension funds continue to pay out benefits to eligible retirees on a timely basis.

All told, the five pension funds had combined liabilities of $248.8 billion June 30 and total assets of $109.1 billion.

Of the five funds, the Illinois Teachers Retirement System, which is the state’s largest pension fund, showed the strongest performance, losing only 1.2 percent of its market value. In a statement Wednesday, TRS said the median rate of return among large pension systems during the year was -7.6 percent.

The State University Retirement System lost 1.4 percent of its value. The State Employee Retirement System, Judicial Retirement System and General Assembly Retirement System all saw market value losses greater than 6 percent.

Pension systems generally receive funding from three sources – employee contributions; employer contributions; and returns on investments. The large unfunded liability in Illinois’ pension funds is the result of the state failing for decades to make adequate contributions as the employer.

In 1994, then-Gov. Jim Edgar, a Republican, pushed through legislation whereby the state would gradually increase its contributions over the next 50 years until the funding ratio would reach 90 percent by 2045, a plan commonly referred to as the “Edgar Ramp.”

But the state has not always met its targets under that plan. In 2005, lawmakers passed a bill allowing reduced contributions, known as “pension holidays,” in times of budgetary pressure. As a result, contributions in 2006 and 2007 were roughly $1 billion lower than the amounts required under the Edgar Ramp.

The financial crisis in 2007-2008 that led to the Great Recession also resulted in significant losses for the pension funds.

Since taking office in 2019, Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker has included full funding at the statutorily required levels in each of his budgets, and over the past two fiscal years authorized an additional $500 million above what was required by law, bringing the total amount paid in to just under $11 billion, including $9.9 billion from the General Revenue Fund.

Under the 1995 law, each of the funds is required to submit a certification prior to Nov. 1 stating how much the state needs to contribute the following fiscal year.

According to those reports, COGFA said, preliminary estimates show the required contributions for the upcoming fiscal year will total $10.9 billion, including $9.8 billion from general revenues. Even that, however, would be far short of what it would take to cover the actual costs that the funds will accrue during the year.

The “actuarily determined contributions” for the five funds – the amount the state would be obligated to pay, even if the systems were 100-percent funded – would be $15.4 billion.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government that is distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs Returns $15,328 to Lutheran Social Services of Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – An early holiday gift is being delivered to Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.

The Des Plaines-based non-profit social services organization is receiving $15,328 in unclaimed cash that was surrendered to Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs’ office, which is responsible for safeguarding unclaimed property.

“While we always work hard to give back unclaimed property to the rightful owners or heirs, we make an extra effort at this time of year to return money to non-profits because their generosity, kindness, and caring acts help so many people,” Frerichs said. “Our staff feels fortunate to play a small role in making the holiday season a little brighter for people who might be going through a challenging time.”

The $15,328 total being returned to LSSI consists of 42 cash properties from various sources, such as uncashed checks, insurance payments and vendors’ credits and refunds. The individual amounts range from one cent to $4,876, and the overall total includes $1,640 in interest paid on the assets.

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois was founded in 1867. During the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, LSSI served more than 42,000 children, adults, seniors and families through more than 50 offices across Illinois. The organization’s programs include foster care, mental health services, alcohol and drug treatment, affordable senior housing, home care services for older adults, residential programs for people with developmental disabilities, and

programs that help people and families impacted by incarceration.

“Any family or individual can appreciate how much receiving unanticipated cash can help, particularly during the holidays, but it’s especially meaningful for nonprofit organizations who use the money to provide critical services,” said Mark A. Stutrud, LSSI President and CEO. “We’re deeply appreciative that the Treasurer’s office has streamlined the process for receiving unclaimed property. This can make such a difference in the lives of our clients, whether it’s using the money to support our vital programs or providing a Christmas present to a child who might otherwise go without.”

Illinois’ unclaimed property program – also known as ICash - is one of the state’s oldest consumer protection initiatives. In Illinois, the state treasurer is tasked with safeguarding unclaimed property, such as unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts and unused rebate cards. Illinois holds more than $3.5 billion in unclaimed property.

Since 2015, Frerichs’ office has returned more than $1.5 billion in unclaimed property, a record - setting amount since the program was established in 1961.

The state treasurer is legally required to return the property to the rightful owners no matter how long it takes. Individuals can search the state treasurer’s database for their name or the name of their business or non - profit at www.illinoistreasurer.gov/

ICASH.

As Illinois State Treasurer, Michael Frerichs (FRAIR’-iks) is the state’s Chief Investment and Banking Officer and actively manages approximately $52 billion. The portfolio includes $26 billion in state funds, $17 billion in retirement and college savings plans and $9 billion on behalf of local and state governments. Frerichs’ office protects consumers by safeguarding more than $3.5 billion in unclaimed property, encouraging savings plans for college or trade school, increasing financial education among all ages, assisting people with disabilities to save without losing government benefits, and removing barriers to a secure retirement. The Treasurer’s Office predates Illinois incorporation in 1818. Voters in 1848 chose to make it an elected office.

Serving Illinois since 1867, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) is a nonprofit social service organization of the three Illinois synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). LSSI is one of the largest statewide social service providers. The organization provides critical programs for Illinois residents including foster care; mental health services; alcohol and drug treatment; senior services including affordable housing and home care; residential programs for people with developmental disabilities; and services that help people and families who have been impacted by incarceration.

Trace Austin, Recording Artist/Actor, Grandson of Otis Williams from The Temptations Releases New Single “My Story”

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Trace Austin, the grandson of the Temptations’ legendary Otis Williams, has released a new single, “My Story,” which was written by Trace Austin and produced by Byron Dorris, AKA Scotty. Trace recently launched his own 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Together All Protected, in October to coincide with National Bullying Prevention Month The (TAP) organization will raise awareness about bullying in the community and provide resources such as mental health services, parent support groups, suicide prevention, self-defense classes, creative arts programs for musicians, alternative programs (schools) for minority youth, the LGBT community, and foster children.

Trace was inspired to write “My Story” after feeling compelled to finally share his story of being a victim of bullying for many years. Trace was bullied, suffered multiple injuries, was home-schooled, and had a school system that failed him. “I want bullied kids to have a voice!” says Trace. “I want a change to happen; I want to inspire others and have them inspire more people to Speak Up!”

To listen My Story, go to: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/traceaustin/my-story-feat-Evoni Trace Austin, who was born and raised in Canary

SUNCHIPS® TO SPOTLIGHT UNDERREPRESENTED ARTISTS ON BAGS AND IN NEW EXHIBIT DURING PREMIER ART WEEK IN MIAMI

PLANO, Texas, PRNewswire -- According to recent research, less than 15% of art in permanent collections in the U.S. is created by women and people of color. To help address that, SunChips, the one-ofa-kind wholegrain chip, brought back its “Art Seen” campaign to give diverse artists a stage on the ground in Miami during one of the premier moments in the global art scene. Select artists will also have a chance to have their work “seen” on more than 20 million SunChips bags and on SunChips social media and advertising.

“Sharing diverse viewpoints is essential to creating a world in which we all feel seen,” said Rhasheda Boyd, vice president of marketing at Frito-Lay. “Art is an incredible way to express unique perspectives. As a brand that encourages people everywhere to embrace their one-of-a-kindness, we’re leveraging this important cultural moment in Miami and our brand platform to highlight these talented artists and share their work with art fans across the country.”

Mashonda Tifrere, the founder of ArtLeadHER and Art Genesis, organizations that elevate female and diverse artists, curated the pop-up “Art Seen,” which was on display in Miami from Nov. 30 to Dec. 2. The “Art Seen” show will be featured at House of Pod, a series of experiential activation houses launched by Pod Digital Media, the first multicultural podcast agency network. Those at the show had the opportunity to cast their vote for their favorite “Art Seen” artist. SunChips will commission the three artists who receive

the most votes to create exclusive artwork for SunChips bags and other brand platforms.

Fans who won’t be in Miami to visit the “Art Seen” pop-up don’t have to miss out. A digital “Art Seen” gallery is open at SunChipsArtSeen.com through Dec. 18, so art lovers across the U.S. can explore the collection and vote for their favorite artists.

“I’m proud to partner with SunChips on ‘Art Seen’,” said Tifrere. “Their goals to encourage diversity in art and bring awareness to underrepresented talent mirror my own. Artists from underrepresented communities must have a stage to exhibit their work – something that has been a focus of mine for years – and I’m excited to continue giving these artists their deserved platform.”

The Miami show is the second iteration of SunChips “Art Seen,” a program that brought to life the brand’s 2021 “Be Your Own Wave” campaign that called on fans everywhere to embrace their individuality. In 2021, “Art Seen” gave artists a new way for their art to be “seen” through out-of-home installations. Now, SunChips is deepening its impact on the art community by providing a stage for diverse artists to share their work with other artists, collectors, and fans of the art community.

For more information on SunChips and the SunChips “Art Seen” program, you can follow SunChips on Instagram and Facebook.

because he has been exposed to many different cultures and countries.

Trace was raised in a musical family. His grandfather is the founding member of the legendary Motown group The Temptations, and his uncle is the famous musician, producer, arranger, and songwriter Benjamin Wright, Jr., who has worked with Michael and Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Destiny’s Child, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, and The Temptations, among many others.

Trace is currently traveling the country doing media interviews with his grandfather, Otis Williams of the Temptations. Among the media outlets are Fox 5 DC, Good Day Texas ABC, KTLA Morning Show, and New Orleans Fox 8. Trace’s song “Imposters” reached the fifth spot on VEVO’s hiphop teen chart.

Trace appeared on the Ava DuVernay-produced NBC show “Home Sweet Home.” Trace has been performing in Los Angeles. Most recently, he opened for Xavier Wolfe at the Regent Theater. He also writes, produces, plays the drums, and is an award-winning actor.

www.traceaustinmusic.com

LOUIS ARMSTRONG’S FIRST-EVER CHRISTMAS ALBUM, “LOUIS WISHES YOU A COOL YULE”, DEBUTS IN TOP 10 ACROSS BILLBOARD CHARTS

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -More than 50 years after his passing, the legendary Louis Armstrong is back on the charts with the release of his first-ever Christmas album, Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule (Verve/UMe). The collection debuted in the Top 10 across multiple Billboard charts (dated Nov. 26), including Top Holiday Albums where it bowed at No. 9 and launches in the top 10 on Jazz Albums (No. 4), Traditional Jazz Albums (No. 4), Top Album Sales (No. 7), Top Current Album Sales (No. 6) and Vinyl Albums (No. 7). It debuted at No. 122 on the Billboard 200, becoming Armstrong’s highest charting album since Hello Dolly spent six weeks at No. 1 in 1964.

“Louis Armstrong’s first album of holiday-associated songs is an auspicious aural example of why he was a man for all seasons, singing and playing his Promethean trumpet in the cause of happiness,” said Wynton Marsalis, president of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation (LAEF). “Whether you’re seven or 70, these evergreen selections featuring the great composer/arranger Benny Carter, and the incomparable vocalists Ella Fitzgerald and Velma Middleton are illuminated by Pops’ down-home vocals. His reading of ‘The Night Before Christmas,’ with my New Orleans homeboy, Sullivan Fortner on piano, is a swinging Crescent City Christmas card. If anybody can bring joy to the world, Louis Armstrong can!”

“Louis Armstrong’s timeless holiday tunes are among the best of the season and we’re thrilled to bring them all together for his first-ever Christmas album,” said Bruce Resnikoff, President & CEO of UMe. “It’s an incredible achievement that more than 50 years after his passing, Louis Armstrong is back on the charts. It’s a testament to his remarkable talent and a wonderful early holiday gift for everyone.”

Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule, available digitally, on CD, red vinyl and a limited edition vinyl picture disc, collects nearly the entirety of Armstrong’s holiday output and presents the recordings as a cohesive body of work for the first time, marking his first-ever official Christmas album. The 11-track album features six Decca singles from the ‘50s, including “Cool Yule,” “Christmas Night in Harlem,” and the swinging “’Zat You Santa Claus?;” duets with two of his favorite vocal partners, Velma Middleton (“Baby, It’s Cold Outside”) and Ella Fitzgerald (“I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm”); plus a very special gift to fans: a previously unreleased reading of Samuel Clement Moore’s poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” popularly known as “The Night Before Christmas.” Paired with a newly-recorded musical underbed by New Orleans pianist Sullivan Fortner, the poignant recording marks the first new, non-live Armstrong track in more than 20 years and is notable for being the last recording he ever made. Rounding out the collection is the artist’s signature hit, “What a Wonderful World,” which has become something of a yearlong hymn of hope and celebrates its 65th anniversary this year.

Stream/purchase “Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule”: https://louisarmstrong.lnk.to/ LouisXmas

“A Visit From St. Nicholas” has been vividly brought to life with a beautiful animated video to usher in the holiday season. Produced and directed by Tom Readdy and Lucy Dawkins at the award-winning creative house Yes Please Productions, the video was animated in a vintage storybook style by animators Sam Shaw, Jac Clinch and Chris Bowles. Watch “A Visit From St. Nicholas” here: https://louisarmstrong.lnk.to/VisitFromStNicholasMV

Wharf, London, traveled the world at a young age, visiting Greece, Paris, France, Spain, and South America. Trace and his family moved to the United States when he was five years old, and he now splits his time between California and London. Trace has compassion for all humans and believes he can relate to everyone

Trace Austin Photo Credit: Samantha Jacoby

Here for the Holidays

This holiday season, Walgreens is here so you can show up healthy and hearty for your loved ones.

Walgreens specially trained pharmacists have safely administered over 100 million COVID-19 vaccines in the past three years. Through online scheduling or within the Walgreens app offering same-day appointments, Walgreens makes it easy to stay up-to-date on recommended vaccines, like the updated COVID-19 booster and flu shot. Plus, COVID-19 treatments are now more accessible if you or a loved one becomes ill. As you plan your holiday festivities, consider the answers to these 5 questions:

How long does it take for the COVID-19 vaccine to be effective?

It typically takes two weeks, so there’s still enough time to prepare for your festivities! Free COVID-19 vaccines and updated boosters are available at Walgreens via same-day appointments. Getting your primary series or updated COVID-19 booster helps you stay protected against COVID-19 variants.

Why is it necessary to have both a COVID-19 and flu vaccine?

With both COVID-19 and flu circulating, with the highest flu activity reported in more than a decade, staying up to date with vaccines is critical to providing protection and helping to prevent illness, medical visits and hospitalizations for you and your family.

Is it safe to receive both the COVID-19 shot or booster and annual flu shot at the same time?

Yes. Studies conducted by the CDC throughout the pandemic indicate that it is safe to get both a flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit. Talk to your pharmacist to determine which vaccines suit your health needs.

What else can I do to prevent a super spreader at my holiday gathering?

For further protection, your local Walgreens offers a variety of masks, hand sanitizers and COVID-19 testing options, including at-home COVID-19 tests available at no cost to you!

COVID-19 treatments were once hard to come by. What is Walgreens doing to make once limited COVID-19 treatments more accessible? Walgreens now offers free prescription delivery of Paxlovid, a COVID-19 oral antiviral therapy, directly to the doorsteps of those in need, with the help of delivery partners DoorDash and Uber Health for same day delivery.

MEET THE PHARMACIST Jamal Downer, PharmD

Pharmacy Manager, New York, NY

“No matter your reason why, Walgreens pharmacists want to help you stay up to date on your vaccinations so you can continue showing up for the people you love. We highly recommend getting your COVID-19 and flu shots as soon as possible. We continue to support your general wellbeing and overall health beyond vaccinations as well. If you or a loved one becomes ill, contact your local pharmacist who can provide testing and prescribe the appropriate treatment options.”

Schedule your appointment by scanning this QR code or visiting: walgreens.com/ findcare/schedule-vaccine

Here’s What Happens When 25,000 Women Go Vegan Together

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- Award-winning public health nutritionist, 35-year vegan activist, and best-selling author Tracye McQuirter, MPH, recently held another free 21Day Vegan Fresh Start program from Sept. 18-Oct. 9, and the results were extraordinary.

This marks the fourth free 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start program as part of McQuirter’s 10 Million Black Vegan Women Movement, a revolutionary public health intervention that is changing the health paradigm of Black women now and for generations to come.

The 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start continues to attract a sizable cohort of women, with 3,705 enrolling. Participants who responded to the post-program survey obtained remarkable health benefits from the 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start:

An astounding 77% of the respondents ate 80-100% of their meals completely vegan, tying the 2020 10K Vegan Fresh Start program for an all-time high.

The high intake of nutritious, plant-based foods contributed to weight loss for 72% of respondents, ranging from 1.2 to 15 pounds and improved general health for 71%.

Remarkably, 14% of respondents addressed specific health conditions as a result of program participation.

Other notable gains attributed to the program

include: lowered blood pressure and cholesterol for 43% and 39% of the respondents, respectively.

A significant number of respondents (54%) reported having more energy, increased mental clarity (43%) and strengthened immunity (20%).

“I couldn’t be happier with the results we saw after this program,” said Tracye McQuirter, MPH. “We are truly changing the way Black women look at nutrition and health proving we really are what we eat. I encourage Black women looking to change their lives to check out 10MillionBlackVeganWomen.org/freshstart and join our incredible community.”

Data shows the 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start

effectively promotes, educates and prepares women to live a healthy vegan lifestyle. Amazingly, 64% of the respondents ate more vegetables, 60% enjoyed cooking more, 59% gained confidence in going vegan and an impressive number (43%) learned how to prepare meals. And it doesn’t stop there, as a smaller, yet growing number of respondents (17%) experienced a greater commitment to the environment and 10% sensed a greater compassion for animals.

McQuirter ’s free 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start programs have helped thousands of Black women experience life-changing health benefits, including weight loss, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improved mood and cognitive function, and more.

Tracye McQuirter, MPH, is a transformative leader in the field of plant-based nutrition and Black women’s health, and has been helping people go vegan for more than 30 years. McQuirter created 10 MIllion Black Vegan Women to change the paradigm of Black women’s health. She is the author of Ageless Vegan and By Any Greens Necessary, and created the first free African American Vegan Starter Guide. The New York Times cited her work as a key factor driving the rise in veganism among African Americans. McQuirter was also an advisor for the Black Women’s Health Imperative and Spelman College, and an adjunct professor at the University of the District of Columbia Center for Nutrition, Diet, and Health. McQuirter has a Master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition from New York University and a Bachelor’s degree in Black Studies from Amherst College.

For more information, please visit: 10millionblackveganwomen.org/freshstart/.

LET’S WIN PANCREATIC CANCER LAUNCHES AN UPDATED PLATFORM

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer is proud to introduce its rethought platform. The new design retains all the robust features patients rely on but makes it easier for website visitors to access the information they need. The streamlined signature flag of the sophisticated new logo reflects the organization’s mission to continue to lead the way forward.

A year and a half ago, it began to reimagine Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer and the growing needs of the pancreatic cancer community. Let’s Win is now a true editorial platform that provides a richer, more meaningful user experience for families navigating this difficult journey. The reorganized website better reflects the needs of patients and caregivers, and has many special features to make it easier to explore the wealth of information.

As Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer looks forward to the next chapter for the organization, it continues to

see its role as a partner to the medical community and the voice of the patient. From the very beginning, its number one priority has been to reach unreached populations by developing deep relationships with trusted partners. Now, with better resources and more accessible information, it is making sure that everyone has the tools they need to get the best outcome possible.

“We started in 2016 with 15 articles and have grown to more than 650 today,” explains Founding Executive Director Cindy Gavin. This wealth of information guided the development of the new platform. “We have learned that patients find these features critically helpful while navigating the disease because they reveal treatment options, clinical trials, and quality-of-living resources that newly-diagnosed patients may not have been aware of. Our new platform directs patients to more resources that are relevant to their treatment based on how they are navigating within the site.”

Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer (https://letswinpc. org/) changes the narrative around pancreatic cancer. Instead of sharing dismal statistics, Let’s Win breaks down the barriers between patients, doctors, and researchers through its dynamic website and robust social media program in both English and Spanish. The message is simple: Everyone who is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer should have easy access to information about the best treatment options available. The site features patients describing their treatment plans; information on promising science; highlights from the latest clinical trials; information about managing care during treatment; current pancreatic cancer news; and inspiring videos from survivors. The Let’s Win Scientific Advisory Board is comprised of world-renowned scientists and physicians who lead cutting-edge research on pancreatic cancer. Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer is a 501(c)(3) organization and is proud to be an affiliate of the Lustgarten Foundation.

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Photo courtesy of 10 Million Black Vegan Women.

Arugula Salad with Walnuts and Ceasar Dressing by Tracey McQuirter.

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