State of Illinois Treasurer: Mailbag
Welcome to "The Mailbag," which is your opportunity to ask me about topics like our programs, other state government functions, or anything else that interests you. After my recent Treasurer’s Note about computer scammers, several of you contacted me and shared your own experiences with some of the shameless people who operate scams. For example, one reader who said he “should know better” was deceived when he got a call from a scammer posing as a bank employee. The scammer said the victim’s bank account
A Sweet Way to Save for Retirement
Illinois Secure Choice provides a way for small businesses to offer retirement savings programs to their workers, allowing employees to save for a dignified retirement. We’ve made it easy for employers to implement. Treasurer Michael Frerichs recently visited Bent Fork Bakery (click to watch video) in Highwood and talked with owners Liz and Mike Bearwald about how they’re helping their employees save for retirement through Illinois Secure Choice. Bent Fork began with Liz and Mike selling pound cakes to pay
Navigate Your Way to a Brighter Financial Future
Did you know less than 25% of American high school students take a financial literacy course? Many enter adulthood with little knowledge of budgeting, debt management, or investing. That’s why the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office created the Illinois Financial Wellness Hub, also known as FinWell Hub, a free resource for Illinois residents to plan a brighter financial future. Sign up, assess your needs with a short quiz, and gain access to courses and articles on a range of topics — from buying your
Lake County Flavor Festival Delivers Record-Breaking Success, Showcases Culinary and Libation Excellence
GURNEE, IL – The Lake County February Flavor Festival wrapped up its highly anticipated monthlong celebration with resounding success, spotlighting the county’s vibrant culinary and craft beverage scene. Organized by Visit Lake County (VLC), the second annual county-wide campaign drew thousands of food and drink enthusiasts, supporting more than 100 participating restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries throughout the region. The Flavor Festival offered residents and visitors a unique
TIU to Transition TEDS Campus Ownership by END of 2025
Trinity International University (TIU) has announced that it will officially transfer ownership of its Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) to Trinity Western University (TWU) by December 21,2025. The Bannockburn campus will continue normal operations through the 2025-2026 academic year, after which TEDS will relocate to TWU's main campus in Langley, British Colombia. TIU cited the ongoing financial challenges of maintaining a campus originally designed for a smaller university as a key factor in
New Wilmot Road Pathway to Enhance Pedestrian Access by Fall 2025
The village of Bannockburn has approved the Constuction of a new pedestrian pathway along Wilmot Road, stretching from Telegraph Road to North Avenue. The project scheduled for completion by September 2025, will improve walkability and connectivity for residents. Backed by a $25,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the USDA Forest Service, the initiative also includes the removal of invasive species such as buckthorn to enhance the health and appearance of the surrounding area,
Bannockburn Hosts Arbor Day Celebration on April 25
Join the Village of Bannockburn for a community Arbor Day celebration on Friday, April 25 at 20a.m. in the open space behind Village Hall. The event will feature the ceremonial planting of a sycamore tree and a musical performance by Bannockburn School's K-2nd grade students. This year's celebration also marks Bannockburn's 34th consecutive recognition as a Tree City USA, along with receiving a Tree City USA Growth Award for the 4th time. The Village continues its strong commitment to tree preservation,
April is National Safe Digging Month: Call 811 Before You DIg
April is National Safe Digging Month, a reminder to homeowners and contractors to always contact JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) before starting any digging project-no matter how big or small. Whether you're planting a tree, installing a fence, or working on a patio, it's essential to call 811 or visit www.JULIE1call.com at least two business days before you dig. This free service helps prevent accidents, injuries, and costly utility damage by ensuring underground lines are
Hazel Avenue Infrastructure Project Continues with New Closures
The Hazel Avenue Infrastructure Project progresses with underground utility work and overhead line transfers completed west of Stratford Road. Beginning Wednesday, April 16, Hazel Avenue will fully close between Chestnut Street and Waukegan Road as construction shifts to the east end. Detours via Deerfield Road and Greenwood Avenue will be in effect through early July.
Fields of Honor Display to Honor Veterans this November
From November 7-11, 2025, the Village of Deerfield will host a Field of Honor display at Jewett Park, featuring 500 American flags in tribute to veterans and active-duty service members, Residents may sponsor flags to honor persona; heroes. Proceeds support Midwest Veterans Closet and Lake County Honor Flight.
New Grant Alert: Made in Illinois Program for Manufacturers
IMEC and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) are excited to announce the 2025 Made in Illinois Grant Program. This initiative is designed to strengthen small and mid-sized manufacturers across Illinois by providing up to $50,000 in matching funds. The application window is narrow - it will only be open April 15-30, 2025. Because of this, we are sharing with you to help spread the word about this incredible opportunity. By working together, we can ensure that Illinois
FUTURE ENERGY JOBS ACT CRAFT APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM FUNDING OPPORTUNITY
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is issuing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO") to identify the organization that will coordinate a statewide Craft Apprenticeship Program that will support registered apprenticeship programs associated with the electric industry that may, but need not, be related to solar installation. Among the goals of the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) is to stimulate job growth in the clean energy economy with
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REAL ID Deadline May 7, 2025
For Illinois residents who fly domestically, the federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025. You must use a valid U.S. Passport or obtain a REAL ID from the Illinois Secretary of State's Office. Take time to know your options. For information on other types of identification accepted by the TSA, please visit the TSA website. To see what documents you need to apply for a REAL ID, visit the REAL ID Interactive Checklist. REAL ID applicants have the option to make an appointment at one of
