Smart Money Week 2014

w w w . m o n e y s m a r t w e e k . n i u . e d u

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Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com • Wednesday, April 2, 2014

| Money Smart Week

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60 Free Money Smart Week Programs

in DeKalb County!

aborative, hern Illinois University’s Financial Literacy Coll The DeKalb County Ca$h Coalition, led by Nort version of our g excited to be partnering together to brin Kishwaukee United Way and Econ Illinois is k program to DeKalb County. the nationally sponsored Money Smart Wee nership of varied community partners is a thriving part The Ca$h Coalition, a group of diverse and ity. We are to offer programming for the greater commun tive bora colla a as ther toge ing com ies entit , staff and ut how to be ‘smart with money’ to students committed to bringing vibrant sessions abo money save to nty residents about financial literacy, how community members, educating DeKalb Cou and good fiscal management. ns, schools, numerous local businesses, financial institutio This year the Coalition is bringing together week of April to host over 60 FREE program sessions the ies entit ent rnm gove and s, rofit nonp ries, libra s with topics ness community will be presenting workshop 5 through the 12th, 2014. Members of the busi ng, estate buyi e establishing a budget to first time hom covering all facets of personal finance from planning, couponing, and much more. ding articles on Money Smart Week events as well as inclu This insert is dedicated to promoting our to local radio s. Community members can also tune in urce reso and cs, topi s, tool acy liter cial finan g of events at Page on Facebook, or browse the full listin shows, check out the NIU Financial Cents to attend any ome bers and NIU students and staff are welc moneysmartweek.niu.edu. Community mem s, and plan the news with friends, neighbors and colleague e shar will you that e hop We . ions sess all and ! to attend several of these wonderful programs

Randi Napientek, Northern Illinois University Dawn Littlefield, Kishwaukee United Way Jackie DiNatale, Kishwaukee United Way Lori Berkes-Nelson, Econ Illinois

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Money Smart Week | Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com

Comprehensive Strategies for your wealth management

• Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com • Wednesday, April 2, 2014

| Money Smart Week

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2014 Money Smart Week Events Northern Illinois University’s Financial Literacy Collaborative is excited to be partnering with the DeKalb County Ca$h Coalition to bring the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s national Money Smart Week program to the community. This collaboration is bringing together many organizations across DeKalb County including businesses, financial institutions, schools, libraries, not-for-profits, government agencies, and the media.

Different collaborative representatives, coalition members, and members of the community will be presenting on different topics throughout DeKalb County during the week of April 5-12th. ALL PROGRAMMING IS FREE and covers all facets of personal finance from establishing a budget to first time home buying, estate planning, couponing, and much more.

NIU students, faculty, staff as well as community members are welcome to attend all sessions.

Saturday, April 5th Free Tax Preparation & Filing Presenters: AARP Tax Aid

Time: 9:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.

Location: IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. Product Training Room 1122 Park Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178 The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers. Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

Money Smart Kids!

Presenter: Lori Berkes-Nelson Econ Illinois Time: 9:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.

Location: Kishwaukee Family YMCA 2500 W. Bethany Rd., Sycamore, IL 60178 How do you talk to kids about being smart with money? Parents, Teachers, and kids come by our table to learn about activities, resources, and other helpful tips that will help kids understand that money matters.

Free Tax Preparation & Filing Presenters: AARP Tax Aid Time: 9:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.

Location: Resource Bank 310 S. IL Route 23, Genoa, IL 60135

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers. Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

Kids Read: Curious George Saves His Pennies

Presenter: Theresa Winterbauer, Youth Services Manager - DeKalb Public Library Time: 10:00 - 11:00a.m.

Location: DeKalb Public Library 309 Oak St., DeKalb, IL 60115 Learn about money with Curious George.

Includes story time, an activity and take home items. Free book to first 15 kids. For kids ages 3 and up.

Healthcare & Your Retirement Presenter: Heather Hilleshiem, Edward Jones Time: 12:00 - 1:00p.m.

Location: Edward Jones 1170 DeKalb, Ave. Suite 109 Sycamore, IL 60178

***Lunch will be provided. RSVP is required, please call (815) 899-0018***

Development, Northern Illinois University Time: 2:00 - 3:30p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Campus Life Building Room 100 DeKalb, IL 60115 Join us for this fun, interactive, and informative workshop to discuss ways you can determine where to give your charitable dollars. Learn about strategies and tips to research nonprofit organizations, what to look for and how to find out about the value of your donation to the organization.

Monday, April 7th Understanding Your Credit Score

Presenters: Castle Bank Time: 11:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University – New Hall: Community Table DeKalb, IL 60115

The increasing cost of health care is a growing concern for current and future retirees. In fact, 25 years ago, retirees spent almost twice as much on food as on health care; now the amounts are nearly equal. Join us for our presentation where we’ll discuss: Medicare coverage and traditional medical expenses, long term medical care expenses, and strategies for addressing uncovered expenses.

Your credit score may be one of the most important numbers you have in life! Join us at this informal session to find out what’s contained in your credit report, how credit bureau information generates a score and the impact it may have on getting a loan.

Plus, you’ll have an opportunity to speak with professionals about how your credit score can work for you.

Sunday, April 6th

Budgeting Makes Sense

Being Smart About Your Charitable Giving: A Workshop

Presenter: Alicia Schatteman, Assistant Professor - Center for NGO Leadership &

Presenters: Take Charge Program Consumer Affairs Comptroller Judy Bar Topinka’s Office Time: 12:00 - 1:00p.m.

Location: Hope Haven 145 Rushmoore Dr., DeKalb, IL 60115

Credit: How It Affects You

Presenters: Take Charge Program - Consumer Affairs Comptroller Judy Bar Topinka’s Office Time: 2:00 - 3:00p.m.

Location: Hope Have 1145 Rushmoore Dr., DeKalb, IL 60115 Comparison Shop for Credit Cards, understand your billing statements, review your credit scores and history.

Using Children’s Literature to Teach Financial Literacy

Presenter: Dr. Mary Beth Henning, Co-Director of NIU’s Center for Economic Education & Associate Professor of Social Studies Education Time: 4:15 - 6:15p.m.

Location: Community Coordinated Child Care (4-C) 155 N. Third St. (lower Level) DeKalb, IL 60115

It’s Too Late to Plan When You’re Dead: Estate Planning 101 & Life Insurance 101 Presenters: Jill M. Tritt - The Foster & Buick Law Group, LLC. & Kimberly Barrios - The Kimberly Barrios Agency of American Family Insurance Time: 6:00 - 7:00p.m.

Location: Foster & Buick 2040 Aberdeen Ct., Sycamore, IL 60178

***RSVP is required. Please contact Samantha Zekoff at szekoff@fosterbuick.com*** Estate Planning 101 will focus on these five components: What is an Estate Plan? Why should I have an Estate Plan? What happens if you don’t make an Estate Plan? The perils of do-itmyself estate planning. An overview of fees for professional estate planning. Life Insurance 101 will give the answers to: What is life insurance?

Who needs it? What are the benefits of life insurance? When is the best time to buy? What does life insurance have to do with estate planning?

Personal Finance 101

Presenter: Anne Marie Edwards Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Rockford Alumnae Chapter Time: 6:00 - 7:00p.m.

Location: Hope Haven 1145 Rushmoore Dr., DeKalb, IL 60115 This workshop will teach you the basics of personal finance. Topics include: how to balance your checkbook, creating and following a budget and more.

Top Tech Tools to Manage Money Presenter: Heidi Berardi Family Credit Management Time: 7:00 - 8:00p.m.

Location: Sycamore Public Library 103 E. State St., Sycamore, IL 60178

From budgeting websites to apps that will give you more bang for your buck, learn about the most useful tech tools that will help you manage money.

Tuesday, April 8th Optimizing Retirement Income in a Low Interest Rate Environment Presenter: Matthew D. Armstrong, CFP Savant Capital Management Time: 10:00 - 11:30a.m.

Location/Sponsored By: Lincoln Inn 240 E. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb, IL 60115

Maximize your retirement income stream by using time-tested strategies and avoiding common mistakes investors make, while minimizing your tax bill. Snacks and coffee provided.

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car

• Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Learn how to teach key economic and personal finance concepts through the use of awardwinning and popular children’s books, including several STEM informational text selections.

From scarcity to opportunity cost, decision making to exchange, children can discover realworld economic concepts and practice essential literacy and math Common Core skills. Students can apply these concepts to making real-world

economic decisions.

Educators will engage in interactive lessons for immediate use with students.

Money Smart Week | Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com

Learn how to prepare a monthly budget, track and maintain a budget, comparison shop and cut expenses.

NIU

With nearly 300 club sports and student organizations, NIU offers a rich, vibrant campus-life experience.

Join us on Friday, April 18th for our Spring Open House and see what NIU has for you.

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Coupon Clipping with the Pros

free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers.

Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

| Money Smart Week

Presenter: Heidi Berardi Family Credit Management Time: 11:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.

Location/Sponsored By: HyVee 2700 DeKalb Ave. - DeKalb, IL 60115

Free Tax Preparation & Filing

Sharpen your scissors and get ready to save money!

Learn how to maximize your shopping experience using coupons. Learn the strategies. See the results.

Presenters: AARP Tax Aid Time: 1:00 - 4:00p.m.

Location: Kirkland Municipal Building 511 W. Main St., Kirkland, IL 60146

Understanding Your Credit Score

***By Appointment ONLY. To make an appointment, please call (815) 522-3557 or (815) 784-6040*** The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers.

Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com • Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Presenters: Castle Bank Time: 11:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University DuSable Hall Lobby • DeKalb, IL 60115

Your credit score may be one of the most important numbers you have in life! Join us at this informal session to find out what’s contained in your credit report, how credit bureau information generates a score and the impact it may have on getting a loan. Plus, you’ll have an opportunity to speak with professionals about how your credit score can work for you.

Everything You Need To Know to Buy Your First Home

Presenters: Kimberly Barrios - The Kimberly Barrios Agency of American Family Insurance, Ryan Gifford - NB&T Loan Officer, & Maria Pena-Graham - Century21 Elsner Reality Time: 5:30 - 6:30p.m.

Location: National Bank & Trust Square Branch 130 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, IL 60115

Free Tax Preparation & Filing Presenters: AARP Tax Aid Time: 1:00 - 4:00p.m.

Location: DeKalb Senior Service Center 330 Grove St., DeKalb, IL 60115

Planning to buy a home in the next one to three years? Join these professionals for an informative session reviewing the home buying process from start to finish!

***By Appointment ONLY. To make an appointment, please call (815)758-4718***

Social Security Crash Course

Presenter: Joseph P Walsh MBA, CFP, CFA, President & CEO - Walsh & Associates Ltd Time: 6:00 - 8:00p.m.

Location: Faranda’s Banquet Center 302 Grove St., DeKalb, IL 60115 You can’t afford to miss this class! It’s has been called the “Mandatory course if you expect to maximize your family benefit!” Social Security is a critical component of retirement planning. It can be overwhelming and potentially very costly if you are uninformed. It is important to know your benefits, understand your options and determine a plan to maximize your benefits. Discuss the timing of taking your benefits, explore the pros and cons of working while collecting Social Security and examine the tax impact of your SS benefit and how to maximize your household benefits.

The Financial Aid Process for Families and High School Juniors & Seniors

Presenter: Jalaine Hart, ISA Corps Member for Kishwaukee District Time: 6:00 - 7:00pm Location: DeKalb County Outreach Building Five Seasons Room 2500 N. Annie Glidden Rd., DeKalb, IL 60115

ISACorps members are experts at simplifying the often confusing world of financial aid: grants, scholarships, and student loans. The FAFSA is also covered at length.

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest

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We keep it personal because you’re more than a credit score to us.

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PERSONAL FINANCE1624COMPANY DeKalb Avenue 815-899-5500 Sycamore IL * Subject to normal credit policy. $1,000 loan based upon 25 Month Term, Total of Payments $1,312.50; $2,000 loan based upon 30 Month Term, Total of Payments $2,712.60; $3,000 loan based upon 37 Month Term, Total of Payments $4,309.76. Monthly payments based on Annual Percentage Rate of 24%. Subject to $25.00 Doc fee.

When you apply for a loan, we review your credit report information but ut ove not your credit score. PFC considers all your qualifications to approve dget. your loan and offer you a repayment plan that works within your budget.

NO C SCORREDIT ING!

Diane Markwell Branch Manager

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A time to be financially savvy By: The NIU Financial Cents Program

People attend college to learn as well as to develop new skills, so it is the perfect time for students to learn to budget, to build their credit, and to plan for life after graduation. The best way for students to do this is to determine what is a “want” verses what is a “need.” A “want” is something that a person would like to have but is not a necessity. Wants may include a nice car, regular Starbucks trips, expensive shoes, or a new smart phone. A “need” is something important that a person cannot do without. Commons needs for college student include school supplies, books, laundry money, and transportation.

Although it may be difficult, prioritizing needs in front of wants is crucial. Doing so is the foundation of basic budgeting. Once needs are taken care of, students can determine how to spend any remaining money.

Saving money and planning ahead for future or unforeseen expenses is important, but it is also nice to use a little cash for fun! The trick is to be reasonable about it and not make hasty or irrational decisions.

College is also the perfect time for students to begin building their credit history. Good credit rating is necessary to qualify for loans, auto insurance, rental applications, and large purchases. Some employers even run a credit check as a standard component of the interview process. One way of building credit history is to secure a credit card. Keeping the borrowing limit low and regularly paying off charges will help build solid credit history.

Another way to earn a good credit rating is to become an authorized user on a parent’s account. This allows students to begin building personal credit with the added protection of mom and/or dad helping to supervise usage. Additionally, students need to make a habit of paying all bills and paying them on time.

Cell phone bills, utility charges, rent, etc. all impact credit scores. Regular payments add credibility to one’s credit score whereas late and missed payments will cause damage.

Being financially savvy during college allows students to build a solid foundation for a lifetime of fiscal responsibility. It also affords new college graduates the flexibility to seek a wider array of opportunities regarding jobs, relocation, housing, and even travel. Purposeful planning today yield limitless possibilities tomorrow!

• Wednesday, April 2, 2014

It’s no secret that going to college can be expensive. In addition to tuition and room and board, students also need to consider costs such as books, travel to and from home, cell phone bills, course related fees, technology needs, and incidental spending money. It all adds up quickly, and it is very easy for students to get in over their heads.

Money Smart Week | Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com

College:

Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com • Wednesday, April 2, 2014

| Money Smart Week

8 Making Credit Work for You: Smart Ways to Manage Your Credit

Presenters: Janice Alwin - Vice President and General Counsel of Oak Point Partners, Inc., Joseph Schorer - Attorney for Kirkland & Ellis LLP, and Donna Wallace - Partner at Baldi Berg & Wallace, Ltd. Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm Location: Eduardo’s Mexican Restaurant 214 R. Lincoln Highway - DeKalb, IL 60115 Learn from experts about how to manage credit and debt in financially sound ways while avoiding the pitfalls of credit misuse and excessive debt. Attorneys Janice Alwin, Joseph Schorer and Donna Wallace will provide a lively, humorous presentation about making credit work for you, affording debt, and living debt free.

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Five Seasons Room 2500 N. Annie Glidden Rd., DeKalb, IL 60115 Learn more about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and what happens to student FAFSA information after it is submitted and how to read an award letter from a college/university. This is especially important for high school seniors. Topics include sample FAFSA questions, cost of attendance formula, and financial aid award letters.

Wednesday, April 9th Money Smart Kids: Junior Achievement Educates Kids

Presenters: Junior Achievement Chicago and NIU’s Financial Cents Program Time: 9:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Genoa Middle School Genoa, IL 60135

Presenter: Lynn Fifer, Registered Dietitian KishHealth System Time: 6:30 - 8:00p.m.

Location: Kishwaukee Hospital Conference Room #3 1 Kish Hospital Drive – DeKalb, IL 60115

***Private Event*** This private event will be exclusively for Genoa Middle School Students.

Junior Achievement will teach students the basic concepts of business and economics and how education is relevant to the workplace.

Learn healthy eating tips at low cost, as well as smart shopping from a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist!

Put EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit) to Work for You!

ID Theft, Scams, & Fraud

Presenters: Take Charge Program Consumer Affairs Comptroller Judy Bar Topinka’s Office Time: 6:30 - 7:30p.m.

Location: Sycamore Public Library 103 E. State Street, Sycamore, IL 60178 What you don’t know CAN hurt you! Learn about ways identify theft occurs, what you can do to protect YOU, and what to do if it happens.

Identify potential scams and fraud. How to protect yourself against ID theft, and what steps to take if you have been a victim.

Mastering Money Management Presenters: Northern Illinois University’s Financial Cents Program Time: 7:00 - 8:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Stevenson Smart Classroom DeKalb, IL 60115

Do you know how to budget? Can you manage your personal income? This session will teach participants to identify the importance of keeping their finances in order, learn what resources on campus can help with finances, and learn about the importance of investing and retirement plans as well as the differences between various retirement systems.

The Path of a FAFSA for Families & High School Seniors

Presenter: Jalaine Hart, ISA Corps Member for Kishwaukee District Time: 7:15 - 8:00pm Location: DeKalb County Outreach Building

Presenter: Kimberly Spagui Administer Justice Time: 10:00 - 11:00a.m.

Location: Conexcion Comunidad 637 N. 11th Street, DeKalb, IL 60115

EITC is one of the nation’s largest anti-poverty programs, annually lifting over 6 million people out of poverty; half of those impacted are children. Millions of workers qualify for EITC for the first time this year, making awareness critical. Join us to learn more about EITC and other ideas to help families and communities.

Understanding Your Credit Score Presenters: Castle Bank Time: 11:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University DuSable Hall Lobby • DeKalb, IL 60115

Your credit score may be one of the most important numbers you have in life! Join us at this informal session to find out what’s contained in your credit report, how credit bureau information generates a score and the impact it may have on getting a loan. Plus, you’ll have an opportunity to speak with professionals about how your credit score can work for you.

Free Tax Preparation and Filing

Presenters: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program Time: 12:00 - 5:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Founders Memorial Library Student Lounge DeKalb, IL 60115 For the third year in a row NIU’s Financial Cents program will be partnering with Goodwill Northern Illinois and the Accountancy Department in Northern Illinois University’s College of Business to bring FREE Tax

Preparation & Filing to NIU Students. All students are invited, including International Students.

Free Tax Preparation & Filing Presenters: AARP Tax Aid Time: 12:00 - 4:00p.m.

(No admittance before 12:00p.m.)

Location: Sycamore Methodist Church 160 Johnson Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers. Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

Community Based Services for Qualified Seniors

Presenter: Tara Cullotta - Elder Care Services Time: 1:00 - 2:00p.m.

Location: DeKalb Senior Center 330 Grove Street, DeKalb, IL 60115 Learn how to access senior services like help with finances, nutrition, assistance programs and other resources.

Negotiating Your Salary

Presenter: Sarah Soltes, Human Resource Manager for BrightStar Care Time: 5:00 - 7:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Barsema Hall Room 133 DeKalb, IL 60115 Graduation is approaching fast. Finding the job you love is important, but it is also necessary that you get paid what you are worth. Join us to learn from a professional about negotiating your salary after the interview process.

Thrift is the New Black

Presenters: Wendy West Krauch & Dava Lee Siepert West Financial Consulting Time: 5:30 - 6:30p.m.

Location: GoodWill Store Community Room 1037 S. Annie Glidden Rd., DeKalb, IL 60115 Learn winning strategies to take control of your finances and tips to obtain a stunning and thrifty wardrobe that succeeds and exceeds.

Approaching Retirement on TRS or SURS Presenter: Joseph P Walsh MBA, CFP, CFA, President & CEO - Walsh & Associates Ltd Time: 6:00 - 8:00p.m.

Location: Faranda’s Banquet Center 302 Grove St., DeKalb, IL 60115

Planning for your retirement ahead of time will greatly impact the ease of your transition from active employment into retirement. Putting together a solid savings plan for your future and developing a clear understanding of your retirement benefits is one of the best strategies to ensure a comfortable, enjoyable retirement.

We will introduce to you some very creative

Financial Recovery: Learn Steps to Help Rebuild Your Credit Presenters: TCF Bank Time: 6:00 - 7:00pm Location: Northern Illinois University Holmes Student Center Room 506 DeKalb, IL 60115

The Financial Recovery seminar describes steps participants can take to recover financially and rebuild their credit after experiencing a financial setback.

How to Save over $1,000 on Food While Improving your Health Presenter: Dan Kenney - DeKalb Community Gardens Founder & Director Time: 6:00 - 6:30p.m.

Location: Conexcion Comunidad 637 N. 11th St., DeKalb, IL 60115

www.idealindustries.com

Presenters: Sheryl Nakonechny & Becky Mascal Barb Food Mart (BFM) Co-Coordinators Time: 6:30 - 7:30p.m.

Location: Conexcion Comunidad 637 N. 11th Street, DeKalb, IL 60115 Learn how Barb Food Mart, a school-based food pantry, is working to reduce food insecurity for families in DeKalb School District 428. BFM has partnered with Northern Illinois Food Bank, DeKalb County Community Gardens, NIU, Kish Health Systems, the University of Illinois and others to provide not food and nutrition education. Join us to learn more!

Thursday, April 10th Free Tax Preparation & Filing

Presenters: AARP Tax Aid Time: 9:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. & 1:00 - 4:00p.m.

Location: DeKalb County Outreach Building Blank Slate Room 2500 N. Annie Glidden Rd., DeKalb, IL 60115

Free Tax Preparation & Filing Presenters: AARP Tax Aid Time: 9:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.

Location: Resource Bank 310 S. IL Route 23, Genoa, IL 60135

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers.

Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

Debt Management & Dislocation: Learning to Manage Money in Times of Transition

Presenters: Danita Sims - First Institute Training & Management & Brian Fleming - Associated Bank Time: 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.

Location: DeKalb County Community Outreach Building - Conference Room West 2500 N. Annie Glidden Rd., DeKalb, IL 60115 Tips on how to manage your money while changing careers, after being downsized, or during dislocation. Maintain stewardship over your financial future no matter your circumstances.

***By Appointment ONLY. To make an appointment, please call (815) 217-0192*** The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers.

Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

Continuing on Page 10

IDEAL is is aisproud pra oud IDEAL proud supporter District 523!

523! member off District of Money Smart Week!

FREE DOCUMENT SHREDDING April 12 From 9am – 1pm courtesy of IDEAL.

IDEAL brings you products that make your job easier; products that you can rely on, with warranties you can trust; products that are available whenever and wherever you need them.

Location will be at Castle Bank parking lot, 141 West Lincoln Highway, DeKalb.

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• Wednesday, April 2, 2014

The founder of the DeKalb County Community Gardens will provide information about how planting a medium sized garden can cut over $1,000 off of your food budget. He will provide basic instructions on starting a garden, resources to make the garden a success, and tips on how a garden can improve your family’s health while saving money.

Barb Food Market: Feeding Kids in District 428

Money Smart Week | Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com

strategies that are only available to Teachers Retirement System and the State University Retirement System participants that may mean thousands of dollars to you and your family --- If you are anywhere near retirement, you won’t want to miss this class.

Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com • Wednesday, April 2, 2014

| Money Smart Week

10 ILLINOIS COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

HOMERUN AUTO LOAN Sp�ci��!

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AS LOW AS

Presenter: Robin Berkheimer, Geriatric Care Manager - Optimal Care Advocates Time: 10:30 - 11:30a.m.

Location: Feed ‘Em Soup Community Project 122 S. First St., DeKalb, IL 60115 What does it cost to hire the supports and services for a Senior to safely stay in their own home? Learn about the supports and services that may be needed by a Senior to safely live in their own home. Gain a basic knowledge of the cost to AIP.

1.39% APR*

*Rates are subject to change. All loans are subject to approval. 1.39% APR up to 36 months or 1.54% APR up to 60 months on model years 2011 or newer with up to 25,000 miles. Rates are based on credit worthiness and loan to value ratios, so rates may differ. For limited time only.

DeKalb • Sycamore • Plano

Anticipating the Cost of Aging in Place

ilcomcu.org • 815-895-4541

Understanding Your Credit Score

Presenters: Castle Bank Time: 11:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Holmes Student Center Diversions Lounge Area DeKalb, IL 60115 Your credit score may be one of the most important numbers you have in life! Join us at this informal session to find out what’s contained in your credit report, how credit bureau information generates a score and the impact it may have on getting a loan. Plus, you’ll have an opportunity to speak with professionals about how your credit score can work for you.

Home Equity Conversion Mortgages

Presenter: Thomas Conwell - Mortgage Services III, LLC. Time: 1:00 - 2:00p.m. & 3:00 - 4:00p.m. (session repeated) Location: DeKalb Public Library • 309 Oak St., DeKalb, IL 60115 ***RSVP encouraged. Please call 815-520-4046*** Homeowners age 62 and over, and their families, will learn about an FHA product that helps seniors in their retirement years, so they can pay off old mortgages, eliminating monthly payments. This informational presentation for Money Smart Week by Thomas J. Conwell is co-sponsored by MSI Reverse.

Everything You Need to Know About Being A LongTerm Care Shopper Presenter: Robin Berkeimer, RN, BA, LNHA, Geriatric Care Manager Optimal Care Advocates Time: 2:00 - 3:00p.m.

Location: Feed ‘Em Soup Community Project 122 S. First St., DeKalb, IL 60115

STABLE. STRONG. SECURE. For the third year in a row, Forbes named us one of the Best Banks in America. As always, we appreciate the recognition of our strong, stable financial position. That foundation allows us to pursue our mission of outstanding customer service, diverse products and continuing a long history of safe, secure banking.

Stop in to a branch today and see what it means to bank with one of the best.

Learn what the difference is between supportive and assisted living, and other housing options. Learn the difference between home health care and home care and other care options. Learn what to look for when you tour facilities and where to find out about the quality of their services. Understand housing options. Become familiar with available care options. Learn how to identify quality services.

Elder Care Costs & How to Pay for It

Presenter: Robin Berkeimer, RN, BA, LNHA, Geriatric Care Manager Optimal Care Advocates Time: 3:30 - 4:30p.m.

Location: Feed ‘Em Soup Community Project 122 S. First St., DeKalb, IL 60115 How expensive is long term care? What does Medicare really pay for? If I don’t have the assets who pays for the difference?

Congratulations Class of 2014...Welcome to the Land of Loan Repayment

Presenters: Northern Illinois University Student Financial Aid Office Time: 3:30 - 4:30p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Cole Hall Room 106 • DeKalb, IL 60115

800.990.5713 | castlebank.com | Member FDIC Forbes Logo © 2013, 2012, 2011 Forbes Media LLC. Used with permission.

The Student Financial Aid Office (SFAO) will provide students with information on determining what debt you currently have and resources for loan repayment. SFAO will help students to calculate repayment plans and discuss loan consolidation. They will explain what deferments and forbearance mean and how to avoid delinquency and default.

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Understanding Your Credit

Presenter: Frank Turza, NB&T Time: 5:30 - 6:30p.m.

Location: National Bank & Trust Square Branch 130 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, IL 60115

Nearly 1,000 United Ways are partnered with FamilyWize in all 50 states to lower the cost of medicine by distributing free FamilyWize prescription drug discount cards.

These free discount cards are for all employees, as well as their family, friends, neighbors in our community and across the country. The discount card doesn’t make the medicine free, but with savings up to 75%, it’s real help, right now.

Why is understanding your credit important? What makes up your credit score?

Join us to learn about tool to evaluate, repair & protect your credit.

How the Card Works 

College Discounts Available to Almost Every Illinois Family

Presenter: Joseph P Walsh MBA, CFP, CFA, President & CEO - Walsh &

Associates Ltd Time: 6:00 - 8:00p.m.

Location: Faranda’s Banquet Center • 302 Grove St., DeKalb, IL 60115

    

Average saving: 35%, about $20 per Rx Anyone can use it: Employees, Family, Friends No registration, activation or paperwork Accepted at 60,000 pharmacies Covers all FDA-approved drugs No cost to United Way, employers or card holders

Paying for college is expensive and many people just fork over their hard earned money without knowing there is a way to receive 5% off of college expenses! If you have children currently attending or going to attend college in the next few years, this course is designed to help you navigate the many college savings plans and help you decide what is best for you. Some of these creative strategies can be used by parents of college age children without regard to family income!

For Employees Who Opt out of the medical plan Aren’t eligible for benefits; part timers and new employees Have HSA and High Deductible Plans Need medicine not covered

Credit Crunch: Understanding Your Credit Score, Proper Credit Card Use, & Budgeting

The goal of the FamilyWize® Community Service Partnership is to reduce the cost of prescription medicine for employees, children, families and individuals by $1 billion by the end of 2015. All funding is provided by part of the dispensing fee that is included in the cost of medicines when a FamilyWize card is used to save money, and by in-kind donations and reduced costs from the program sponsors.

NIU Financial Cents is here to help you understand the ins and outs of credit.

Discussion topics will help you learn what your credit score means, how to budget and properly use your credit cards, and much more!

Saving & Budgeting

Presenter: Robert Heck & Abby Sipes - Castle Bank Time: 6:30 - 7:30p.m.

Location: DeKalb Public Library • 309 Oak St., DeKalb, IL 60115 Are you trying to put yourself into financial balance? Attend the Savings and Budgeting seminar to get helpful tips on creating a budget, setting savings goals, paying down debt, and making interest work for you!

Have you experienced a major life-changing event?

Become financially fearless!

Friday, April 11th Money Smart Kids: Junior Achievement Educates Kids

Presenters: Junior Achievement Chicago and NIU’s College of Business Students Time: 9:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Genoa Middle School • Genoa, IL 60135 ***Private Event*** This private event will be exclusively for Genoa Middle School Students. Junior Achievement will teach students the basic concepts of business and economics and how education is relevant to the workplace.

Understanding Your Credit Score

Presenters: Castle Bank Time: 11:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University • Stevenson Hall Food Court DeKalb, IL 60115 Your credit score may be one of the most important numbers you have in life!

Join us at this informal session to find out what’s contained in your credit report, how credit bureau information generates a score and the impact it may have on getting a loan. Plus, you’ll have an opportunity to speak with professionals about how your credit score can work for you.

Continuing on Page 14

Join TCF for a FREE Financial Recovery Seminar ®

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2014 6 – 8 P.M. INSIDE THE HOLMES STUDENT CENTER, ROOM 506 RSVP toTia Anderson at 815-753-9212 or tanders1@tcfbank.com Learn how to establish or re-establish financial goals, build or re-build credit, protect against identity theft, avoid credit repair scams, and more. ©2014 TCF National Bank. Member FDIC.

1-800-TCF-BANK I tcfbank.com

• Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Presenters: Northern Illinois University’s Financial Cents Program Time: 6:00 - 7:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Stevenson Hall Smart Classroom • DeKalb, IL 60115

Have a family member without coverage.

Money Smart Week | Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com

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Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com • Wednesday, April 2, 2014

| Money Smart Week

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Credit Scores:

More than Just a Number By: The NIU Financial Cents Program From buying a home to finding a dream job, there is one looming shadow which impacts everyone’s ability to get these things…your FICO Credit Score. According to JP Morgan Chase & Co., your credit score is your financial trustworthiness.

Credit measures how likely a borrower is to pay back the loan. The FICO Credit Score is undoubtedly one of the most important numbers you can ever have. Whether your credit score is good or bad, it has its way of following you for the rest of your life. Scary? Well, it doesn’t have to be!

FICO Credit Scores range from 300-850, and is determined by each individual lenders’ standards organized into five categories: payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and types of credit in use. Below are some tips to help you achieve a higher score in each category:

1

Payment History: Pay your bills on time, and every time. Even when you can’t afford to make the full payment, be sure to pay the minimum payment on time to avoid late payment fees and a negative mark on your credit score.

2

Amounts Owed: As a general rule of thumb, try not to use up more than 30% of your credit limit on your credit cards. Creditors will punish you for having high balances as you are seen less likely to be able to pay off your existing debt.

3

Length of Credit History: The key is to establish credit early. Not having a credit history makes it hard for creditors and lenders to assess the risk of a potential borrower.

4

New Credit: Limit the number of credit lines you have open at any one time. A large number of open credit accounts can have an adverse effect on your credit score.

5

Types of Credit in Use: Having a mix of debt is sometimes a good thing. Student loans and mortgages are considered to be good debt and do not have as harsh punishments on your credit score as compared to credit card debt.

Don’t know what your credit score is? Don’t worry. Checking your credit score is easy! However, checking your score too frequently can result in adverse inquires, negatively impacting your credit score. It is recommended that you limit checks into your credit score three times a year, once per credit card reporting bureau. (There are three credit card bureaus that report FICO Credit Scores: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.)Print your credit reports and inspect them for accuracy and completeness.

Be sure to shred them or to keep them in a secure place. If you feel that there are errors in any of these reports, make sure to contact the credit bureau that has the questionable information on their report.

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Money Smart Week | Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com

Student Success Coaching • Workshops • Referrals • Early Alert Non-Enrollment, Non-Registration, and Encumbrance Calls We work with students to develop action plans regarding personal and academic support issues and connect students to relevant campus and community resources to help them succeed at NIU and beyond.

815.753.5721 | osas@niu.edu | www.niu.edu/osas

• Wednesday, April 2, 2014

The Office of Student Academic Success helps foster interaction among students, faculty and staff and provides academic support to help students attain their academic goals while at NIU.

Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com • Wednesday, April 2, 2014

| Money Smart Week

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Life After High School

Presenters: Take Charge Program - Consumer Affairs Comptroller Judy Bar Topinka’s Office & NIU’s Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning.

Time: 12:00 - 1:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Founders Memorial Library Student Lounge - DeKalb, IL 60115 Evaluate your options after high school: Set financial goals, maintain good credit, and protect yourself against identity theft.

ID Theft, Scams, & Fraud

Presenters: Take Charge Program - Consumer Affairs Comptroller Judy Bar Topinka’s Office Time: 2:00 - 3:00p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Founders Memorial Library Student Lounge DeKalb, IL 60115 What you don’t know CAN hurt you! Learn about ways identify theft occurs and what you can do to protect YOURSELF. This session will identify potential scams and fraud, discuss how to protect yourself against ID theft, and inform you of what steps to take if you have been a victim.

Transitioning to Retirement

Presenter: Joseph P Walsh MBA, CFP, CFA, President & CEO - Walsh & Associates Ltd Time: 6:00 - 8:00p.m.

Location: Faranda’s Banquet Center 302 Grove St., DeKalb, IL 60115

Retirement is a one-time event. Mistakes can be very costly. This course will address some of the key issues in the transition from work to retirement. Understanding these key issues and making informed decisions will help you better enjoy your “golden” years. Some of the topics we will cover include: evaluating the true cost of retirement, evaluating your sources and timing of retirement income, protecting your health and wealth, minimizing taxes during retirement, maximizing your pension benefits and social security, and planning for death and/or disability.

This course is designed to guide you through this exciting transition period of your life.

Saturday, April 12th Shred Day

Sponsored by: IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. Time: 9:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Location: Castle Bank 141 W. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, IL 60115 Now that tax day has come and gone, do you need to shred some old documents? No worries!

Shred Day is an opportunity for local consumers and businesses to prevent identity theft and help the environment through FREE on-site document shredding.

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aid is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service that has helped nearly 50 million taxpayers.

Come get your questions answered and help in preparing and filing your taxes.

Finding Your Inner Entrepreneur

Presenter: Nancy Lublin, CEO - DoSomeThing. org & Founder - Dress for Success Time: 3:30 - 4:30p.m.

Location: Northern Illinois University Holmes Student Center - Carl Sandburg Auditorium – DeKalb, IL 60115 At 23, Nancy Lublin founded Dress for Success with a $5,000 inheritance and turned it into a global franchise that provides interview dress and career development training to women in need. To find your inner entrepreneur you need two things: innovation and motivation.

Nancy Lublin gets you started. Using her own experience launching Dress for Success and reinventing DoSomething.org, Lublin explains how to take action, implement an idea, and keep things rolling.

Free Tax Preparation & Filing Presenters: AARP Tax Aid Time: 9:30a.m. - 12:30p.m.

Location: DeKalb Public Library 309 Oak St., DeKalb, IL 60115

Nancy Lublin

“Finding your Inner Entrepreneur”

3:30 p.m. Sat., April 12 HSC Sandburg Auditorium

At 23, Nancy Lublin turned a $5,000 inheritance into a global franchise helping women in need.

Learn from her experience launching Dress for Success and reinventing DoSomething.org.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

April 12 - May 1

Highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of NIU students, faculty, staff and alumni to the university’s mission of promoting excellence and engagement in teaching and learning, research and scholarship, creativity and artistry, and outreach and service during the academic year.

www.NIU.edu/Excellence

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Money Smart Week | Daily Chronicle / Daily-Chronicle.com

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