All Week Long
Originally published on fox32chicago.com 12/11/2023 | Image: Fox32
In a festive and generous event aimed at supporting families in need, "Christmas in the Wards" marked its nearly three-decade tradition by providing toys and winter clothes to families in 40 Chicago wards and 13 suburban communities.
The event, held at the Pullman Walmart on South Doty Avenue, kicked off with three families, symbolizing the joy and spirit of giving.
Children were treated to a wide array of gifts, including the latest toys, electronics, and clothing — all free of charge. The generous offerings ranged from PlayStation 5 consoles to laptops, bicycles, and more, ensuring that children have something special to unwrap on Christmas Day.
The annual initiative, founded by local businessman Larry Huggins, has become a significant effort to bring holiday cheer to families facing financial constraints. A mother of three young boys said the giveaway is indeed a blessing to her family.
The event drew the presence of notable figures, including Major Brandon Johnson, Cook County Board President Tony Preckwinkle, and several Chicago alderpeople.
Originally published on chicagotribune.com 12/14/2023
Just ahead of a new year’s deadline before a statewide law takes effect, the Cook County Board on Thursday unanimously approved a new paid leave mandate that applies to all suburban municipalities.
The changes replicate and slightly expand on the Jan. 1 state law, which will require most employers to provide up to 40 hours of paid leave per year. Statewide, time off will be accrued one hour at a time for every 40 hours worked, or employers could front-load that time off. Those standards would be enshrined at Cook County businesses starting in 2024 whether or not the County Board took any action.
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In a release, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle’s office celebrated its passage and pointed out the change “represents a significant shift” from the county’s current earned sick leave ordinance, which “outlined conditions during which earned sick leave could be used (e.g., when you or a family member are ill, receiving medical care, etc.). Paid leave, by contrast, can be used for any reason, providing more flexibility to employees in Cook County to take time off.”
Paid for by Preckwinkle for President. A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is (or will be) available on the Board's official website, http://elections.il.gov/, or for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, Illinois. All contributions are reported to the State Board of Elections. Contributions are not accepted from employees of Cook County. Companies holding contracts with the Cook County are limited to $750.
Political contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes.