President Biden named nineteen recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.

President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. These nineteen individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.

The awards will be presented at the White House on January 4, 2025. The following individuals will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom:

José Andrés 

José Andrés is a renowned Spanish-American culinary innovator who popularized tapas in the United States. His World Central Kitchen provides large-scale relief to communities affected by natural disasters and conflict around the world.

Bono

Bono is the frontman for legendary rock band U2 and a pioneering activist against AIDS and poverty. He brought together politicians from opposing parties to create the United States PEPFAR AIDS program, and is co-founder of campaigning organizations ONE and (RED).

Ashton Baldwin Carter (posthumous)

Ash Carter served as the 25th Secretary of Defense and devoted his career to making the nation safer for all. Throughout his career, he served under 11 Secretaries of Defense in both Democratic and Republican administrations.

Hillary Rodham Clinton

Secretary Clinton made history many times over decades in public service, including as the first First Lady elected to the United States Senate. After serving as Secretary of State, she became the first woman nominated for president by a major United States political party.

Michael J. Fox

Michael J. Fox is an actor who has won five Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Grammy Award. He is a world-renowned advocate for Parkinson’s disease research and development.

Tim Gill

Tim Gill is a visionary entrepreneur whose work has advanced LGBTQI rights and equality. After transforming the publishing industry through groundbreaking software, he leveraged his success to secure key victories in the fight for marriage equality and anti-discrimination protections.

Jane Goodall

Dr. Jane Goodall is a world-renowned ethologist and conservationist whose research transformed our understanding of primates and human evolution. She is a passionate advocate for empowering individuals and communities to protect and preserve the natural world.

Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous)

Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer transformed the struggle for racial justice in America. As a founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, she challenged the exclusion of Black voices in the political system and laid the groundwork for the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Earvin “Magic” Johnson is a legendary retired basketball player who led the Los Angeles Lakers to five championships. Off the court, he is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation.

Robert Francis Kennedy (posthumous)

Robert Francis Kennedy is remembered as an Attorney General who fiercely combatted racial segregation, and as a United States Senator who sought to address poverty and inequality in the country. His legacy continues to inspire those committed to justice, equality, and public service.

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren is a fashion designer who redefined the fashion industry with a lifestyle brand that embodies timeless elegance and American tradition. He has influenced culture, business, and philanthropy, notably in the fight against cancer and the preservation of the Star-Spangled Banner.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer. He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

William Sanford Nye

Bill Nye has inspired and influenced generations of American students as “Bill Nye the Science Guy.” His dedication to science education continues through his work as CEO of the Planetary Society and as a vocal advocate for space exploration and environmental stewardship.

George W. Romney (posthumous)

George Romney was a businessman who served as the chairman and president of American Motors Corporation. A public servant, he later served as both the 43rd Governor of Michigan and the 3rd Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

David M. Rubenstein

David Rubenstein is co-founder and co-chairman of The Carlyle Group, where he built one of the most successful global investment firms. He is renowned for his philanthropy and generous support for the restoration of historic landmarks and the country’s cultural institutions.

George Soros

George Soros is an investor, philanthropist, and founder of the Open Society Foundations. Through his network of foundations, partners and projects in more than 120 countries, Soros has focused on global initiatives that strengthen democracy, human rights, education, and social justice.

George Stevens, Jr. 

George Stevens, Jr. is an award-winning writer, director, author, and playwright. His career has been dedicated to preserving and celebrating the best of American film and the performing arts, including by founding the American Film Institute and creating the Kennedy Center Honors.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is an actor, director, and producer who has won two Academy Awards, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and the 2016 Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award. He has also served as National Spokesman for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for over 25 years.

Anna Wintour

Anna Wintour is a renowned fashion icon who has led Vogue as editor-in-chief since 1988. A champion for philanthropic causes, she is also the leading architect behind the annual Met Gala fundraiser and chief content officer of Condé Nast.

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Treasurer Russell Releases Annual Report Highlighting Investment Returns, Taxpayer Savings, and Other Agency Accomplishments

Hartford, CT – Connecticut Treasurer Erick Russell has released the Office of the Treasurer’s Annual Report, providing updates on the work of the agency during the past fiscal year including several noteworthy achievements and improvements.

"In Fiscal Year 2024, the Treasurer’s Office made significant investments on behalf of Connecticut taxpayers, grew the pension funds for retired teachers and state and municipal workers, reunited residents with millions of dollars in lost or abandoned property, and helped thousands of families save for college,” said Treasurer Russell. “This report details the important work done by the dedicated staff at the agency, and its impact on residents of our state now and for generations to come. I’m exceptionally proud of our role in shaping Connecticut’s future, and grateful to work with colleagues so dedicated to public service and professional excellence.”  

The filing of the Annual Report is required by state law and includes details from each division within the Office of the Treasurer as well as programs and funds maintained by the agency from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.

Highlights of the report include strong investment returns in the state’s pension funds. The full portfolio of funds and trusts administered by the office, including those for retired state workers and teachers, saw returns of 11.5%, adding approximately $7.5 billion in plan assets during the fiscal year. Reforms put in place in recent years to reallocate plan assets, mitigate risk, lower fees, and recruit and retain investment talent all contributed to the positive performance.

Connecticut’s first-in-the-nation CT Baby Bonds program completed its first year by welcoming over 16,000 enrolled children and investing $3,200 on their behalf. The financing solution that provided the seed money for an estimated 12 years of participants was recognized by The Bond Buyer as its “Innovative Financing Deal of the Year.” To spread awareness and encourage engagement, an ambassador program was launched in collaboration with community organizations across the state. The Internal Revenue Service granted charitable status to the Trust holding investments for the program, allowing for future partnerships with philanthropic donors to fund additional outreach, research, and wraparound services for participants and their families.

Other highlights include:

• Bond sales totaling over $2.2 billion were held to fund critical investments across the state, including the construction of schools and transportation infrastructure. Refunding of existing bonds saved taxpayers $61.6 million.
• $82 million in unclaimed property was returned to 44,065 rightful owners. Several improvements were made to streamline the return of funds and protect against fraud. While many small dollar claims are now automated, web site users can also see the exact amount available to claim in most cases and often complete the process without any paperwork. A new web address, CTBigList.gov, was established to enhance user trust and confidence.   
• The Short-Term Investment Fund, which holds and invests cash for state and municipal governments, generated $37 million in additional interest earnings for accountholders beyond its investment benchmark.
• Over 200 municipal finance and investment professionals joined the Public Finance Outlook Conference in New Haven to learn about programs in the Treasurer’s Office impacting local governments and hear updates about the state and national economies.
• The Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET) added 17,384 new accounts, helping families save for future education expenses. Treasurer Russell serves as Trustee of CHET.

Each year, the Annual Report of the Office of the Treasurer is submitted to the Governor. An archive dating back to 2000 can be found on the agency’s website: portal.ct.gov/OTT.

Presidential watch party

Hartford, CT – Connecticut Treasurer Erick Russell announced the results of a successful $936 million State of Connecticut General Obligation (GO) Bond offering on Wednesday. The bonds will fund a variety of capital improvements and grant programs across Connecticut including $440 million for school construction and grants to educational institutions.

“Bond sales help shape the future of our state and make key investments in what we value most,” said Treasurer Russell. “This sale will fund the construction of schools, support our education system, strengthen local infrastructure, and uplift programs benefitting residents across the state. Demand from investors generated orders far exceeding the bonds offered during this sale, demonstrating Connecticut’s sustained strength in the market.”   

Of the $800 million in new money bonds, $240 million were offered as “Social Bonds” dedicated to school construction. An additional $136 million of bonds will refinance existing debt, saving taxpayers approximately $15 million over the coming decade.

About the Sale

The $800 million new money bond offering consisted of $560 million of 2024 Series F Tax-Exempt Bonds and $240 million 2024 Series G Tax-Exempt Social Bonds. In addition, $136 million of 2024 Series H Tax-Exempt bonds were sold to refund two series of outstanding callable General Obligation bonds.

Retail Order Period

Treasurer Russell gave retail investors priority on the bonds during a dedicated one-day retail-only order period on Tuesday, October 8. The state worked with a Connecticut marketing firm, Miranda Creative, to advertise the sale through print and digital media culminating in retail orders totaling $322 million, including $121 million from Connecticut investors.

Orders and Interest Cost

Despite volatility in the municipal bond market earlier in the week, the state attracted more than $2.9 billion in total orders from both retail and institutional investors, exceeding by nearly three times the amount of bonds being offered. The Social Bonds were particularly attractive to investors, securing $1.4 billion in total orders. This significant investor response is an indication of Connecticut’s growing strength in the market following multiple credit rating upgrades and positive outlooks in recent years and produced a 3.50% borrowing cost on the 20-year 2024 Series F and G Bonds and a 2.85% borrowing cost on the ten-year 2024 Series H Refunding Bonds.  These lower borrowing costs make state investments in capital improvements and grant programs more cost-effective for taxpayers.

Projects Funded

The 2024 Series F and 2024 Series G Social bonds will fund:

• $240.0 million for School Construction
• $200.0 million for Grants to Schools and Higher Education
• $112.6 million for Grants-in-Aid to Municipalities for Qualified Infrastructure Projects
• $ 68.9 million for Health Centers and Mental Health Facilities
• $ 58.4 million for Improvements to State-owned facilities
• $ 45.0 million for State Grants for Clean Water Projects
• $ 30.5 million for University of Connecticut Nursing Program Facility
• $ 15.1 million for Economic and Community Development
• $ 8.6 million for Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Fund
• $ 6.5 million for Grants and Loans to Non-Profit Organizations
• $ 5.0 million for Crumbling Foundations Assistance Program
• $ 3.5 million for the Neighborhood Revitalization Investment Program
• $ 3.0 million for Connecticut Convention Center upgrades
• $ 2.9 million for Grants for Improvements to Ports, Harbors, and Marinas

Summary of GO Credit Ratings

Prior to the bond sale, all four credit rating agencies affirmed the State’s GO credit ratings.  Moody’s Investors Service affirmed its “Aa3” rating, with a Positive Outlook; S&P Global Ratings affirmed its “AA-” rating, with a Stable Outlook; Fitch Ratings affirmed its “AA-” rating, with a Positive Outlook, and Kroll Bond Ratings affirmed its “AA+” rating with a Stable Outlook.

Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC led the bond underwriting syndicate that sold the bonds, which are scheduled to close on October 23, 2024.

More information on the State’s bonding program is available at www.buyctbonds.com.

CES Boxing returns to Mohegan Sun Arena on Saturday, November 2 with "CES Autumn Classic", a stacked 13-bout card featuring Alejandro "El Abusador" Paulino (18-0, 14 KOs) taking a major step up in class as he defends his WBC US Silver Lightweight title against the dangerous Toka "T-Nice" Kahn (29-3, 19 KOs) in the main event.  

The co-feature is a grudge match as New England Super Featherweight Champion "King" Kevin Walsh and Irvin Gonzalez finally settle who is the best featherweight in New England.   

Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut National Guard is preparing to send additional resources to North Carolina in response to a request from that state for further assistance with Hurricane Helene disaster response.

The Connecticut National Guard’s Bravo Company, 2-104^th Aviation, 1-169^th Aviation Regiment will be sending one additional CH-47 Chinook helicopter, one UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, and an aircrew of 16 soldiers to Salisbury, North Carolina, where they will assist with moving commodities to stranded communities in the state’s western region. The two helicopters and their aircrews are scheduled to depart from the Army Aviation Support Facility in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, on the morning of Friday, October 4, 2024, and they are expected to be deployed for approximately one week.

This planned deployment comes in addition to last week’s deployment to North Carolina of two other teams from Connecticut. Those teams include a five-soldier flight crew and one CH-47 Chinook helicopter from the Connecticut Army National Guard’s 1-169^th Aviation Regiment, and an eight-member urban search and rescue team coordinated by the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. Both of those teams deployed on Friday, September 27, 2024.

“Connecticut is prepared to lead by example and deliver assistance to our neighbors during times of emergency,” Governor Lamont said. “The soldiers from the Connecticut National Guard have always been ready to respond to any crisis here in our state whenever the need arises, and I am very thankful that they have accepted this mission to help our friends in North Carolina. I look forward to their safe return.”

“I want to extend my deepest thanks to the soldiers of Bravo Company, 2-104^th Aviation, 1-169^th Aviation Regiment that have been assisting the residents and first responders of North Carolina over this past week for their incredible hard work and dedication with the disaster relief efforts,” Major General Francis Evon, the commander of the Connecticut National Guard, said. “Their courage and commitment in the face of adversity have made a true difference for those in need, and I couldn’t be more proud of what they have accomplished. As we send two more aircraft and additional soldiers to North Carolina for further assistance, I have full confidence that the Connecticut National Guard will continue to have a significant positive impact on the hurricane relief and recovery efforts. The selfless service of our Guardsmen is a testament to the strength and resilience of Connecticut’s Home Team. I thank each of them for their unwavering dedication to our mission and our nation.”

The unit is deploying under the authorization of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid system among states and territories for lifesaving resources during natural and man-made disasters. In Connecticut, EMAC is implemented by the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security on behalf of the governor.

The 1-169^th Aviation Regiment’s mission is to mobilize and deploy to conduct Air Movement, Air Assault, MEDEVAC, Combat Support and Combat Service Support in support of Aviation operations throughout the designated area of responsibility. The unit is stationed in Windsor Locks at the Army Aviation Support Facility and most recently returned from a mission to Afghanistan in 2019-2020.

PROVIDENCE, RI – CES Boxing continues its busy fall schedule with 2 scintillating cards taking place on back-to-back weekends in late October and early November.

On October 25, top welterweight contender "Speedy" Rashidi Ellis (24-1, 15 KOs) makes his CES Boxing debut on "Halloween Knock Out" against Argentine strongman Brian Chaves (14-5, 5 KOs).  The bout takes place at the Oceanside Events Center in Revere, MA and will feature many of the best prospects in the Boston area.   

A week later on November 2, unbeaten lightweight prospect Alejandro "El Abusador" Paulino (18-0, 14 KOs) headlines “CES Autumn Classic” against his toughest opponent to date in Toka Kahn Clary (29-3, 19 KOs).  The fight will be part of a fantastic card taking place at Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut that also features jr. welterweight prospect Wilson “Ill Will” Mascarenhas (11-1, 5 KOs), New England Super Featherweight Champion “King” Kevin Walsh (14-0, 7 KOs) and several other high-profile matchups to be announced.      

“These are 2 fantastic nights of boxing taking place a week apart in New England,” said CES Boxing founder Jimmy Burchfield, Sr.  “Rashidi Ellis was one of our shining stars on the Boston Butchers this year, and he is only one or two fights away from challenging for a major world title.  Alejandro Paulino is one of our best prospects in many years.  He’s taking a step-up fight against a very tough Toka Kahn Clary and will have to be at his best to pass the test and graduate to contender.”

Additional details, including press conference info, to be announced in the coming weeks. 

Don’t miss out on all of the action this fall - purchase your tickets now at CESFights.com or Ticketmaster.


For more information on these cards and all other CES Boxing events, visit cesfights.com.

in anticipation of potential severe weather from Hurricane Helene, the City of Atlanta has taken proactive measures to help protect residents. We urge everyone to monitor local weather advisories and take precautions in case of flooding. Stay informed and prioritize your safety as this storm approaches.

Important Steps to Take:

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in loose items from balconies, patios, and outside areas.
• Prepare Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and first aid supplies.
• Stay Informed: Follow local news and weather alerts from the National Weather Service.
• Charge Devices: Ensure phones and other devices are fully charged in case of power outages.
• Follow Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue evacuation instructions, act immediately.

City of Atlanta Departmental Updates - 6:00 PM, Wednesday, September 25

Note: City offices are closed for in-person business on Thursday, September 26.

Watershed Management

• Proactively preparing since learning of Hurricane Helene’s potential impact.
• Emergency response teams are in place to address any issues.
• Monitoring water flow in known flooding hotspots.
• Conducting routine maintenance and concentrated cleaning of storm water drains to prevent blockages.

Parks & Recreation, Forestry Team

• Coordinating with Public Works (DPW), the Department of Transportation (ADOT), and Atlanta Fire Rescue for tree removal and storm debris management.

Public Works (DPW)

• Cleaning drainage systems ahead of expected heavy rainfall.
• Moved vehicles to higher ground.
• Implemented a 24/7 staffing plan to ensure continuous coverage throughout the emergency.

Atlanta Department of Transportation (ADOT)

• Cleared bridge and curb inlets in areas expected to flood.
• Chainsaw crews are on standby for downed tree removal.
• Barricades are strategically positioned for quick deployment.

E-911 Operations

• Activated severe weather action plan with operators ready to shelter in place if necessary.
• The Westin Hotel has offered accommodations for E-911 staff during the storm.

 Atlanta Fire Rescue Department

• Prepared for swift water rescues and downed tree removal.
• Vehicles are fueled and ready to respond.

Atlanta Police Department (APD)

• Chief Schierbaum has deployed extra supplies to precincts.
• Shelter-in-place locations are being identified for essential staff.
• APD is ready to respond to any safety emergencies during the storm.

ATL311 and Remote Staff

• ATL311 will operate outside normal hours, from midnight to 7 AM on Thursday, providing 24-hour access to information.
• Remote staff provided with mifi devices in case of power loss.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

• Plans in place for potential flight cancellations and stranded passengers.
• Concessionaires are prepared to stay open to serve passengers, crews, and workers as needed.

Parks and Recreation Facilities

• All activities at Parks and Recreation facilities are canceled Thursday.

Emergency Alerts

• Residents can sign up for emergency alerts by texting NOTIFYATL to 2463

                                                Hurricane Helene Tracker

Congressman John Lewis

 The CT Black Expo

Leader of Elm City Communities/Housing Authority of New Haven Chosen to Succeed Will Ginsberg on Nov. 2

New Haven, Conn. (Sept. 17, 2024) – The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven has named Dr. Karen DuBois-Walton as the next president and chief executive officer of the region’s community endowment and largest grant maker to local nonprofits. DuBois-Walton, most recently the president Elm City Communities/Housing Authority of New Haven, succeeds Will Ginsberg, who is stepping down after 24 years, on Nov. 2. 

“I am thrilled to be taking on this leadership role at The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven and for the opportunity to work with the team and in this community with so many committed volunteers and donors to build a stronger, more connected and more equitable Greater New Haven Region," DuBois-Walton said. "My vision for the future is one where we work together to create a more equitable and inclusive Greater New Haven — a region where every resident in all 20 towns has the chance to thrive, regardless of their background or zip code. This is the work I have committed to in my personal and professional career and it is what I am most excited to continue at The Foundation.  This work requires bold and collaborative solutions and my work is known for that." 

Dr. DuBois-Walton brings two decades of leadership experience in government and public sectors. For the past 16 years, she has been president of Elm City Communities/Housing Authority of the City of New Haven (HANH), which serves more than 6,000 families and 14,000 individuals and includes the Glendower Group, LLC (the development affiliate of HANH) and 360 Management Group, Inc. (the property management affiliate). Leading the $800 million umbrella organization, she has spearheaded initiatives to address systemic inequities in housing and community development, education and economic access and opportunity

“Karen is an extraordinary leader of high integrity. She has a longstanding commitment to Greater New Haven and possesses the experience and vision needed for bringing together all stakeholders to create a more equitable and inclusive community.” said The Foundation Board Chair Marcella Nunez-Smith. “As we welcome Karen, we also extend our immense gratitude to Will for his leadership and overseeing the incredible growth of The Foundation during his tenure.”

The search process for a new president and CEO began following Ginsberg’s announcement in the fall of 2023 that he would retire in November 2024. He has served at The Foundation’s helm since 2000.

The Community Foundation Board of Directors chose Dr. DuBois-Walton following a rigorous national search conducted by a committee of current and former board members in partnership with Koya Partners, a search firm that specializes in placing CEOs in mission-driven roles.

“Karen has the unique combination of leadership ability, experience and deep connection to and passion for the Greater New Haven community that put her at the top of a very talented candidate pool,” said Fernando Muñiz, chair of the search committee and vice chair of The Foundation’s Board of Directors. “I thank my fellow committee members for their time, expertise and wisdom in completing this important work and we all look forward to The Foundation’s next chapter with Karen as our new leader.” 

In addition to Muñiz, other search committee members included Nunez-Smith, current Board members Greg Pepe and Valarie Shultz Wilson, and former Board Chair Khalilah Brown-Dean.

“Karen is a great member of our community and a longtime inspirational community leader. She is a perfect fit for The Community Foundation because she knows our community, she understands our community and she loves our community. The Foundation’s Board could not have made a better choice,” said Ginsberg. 

Dr. DuBois-Walton holds advanced degrees in clinical psychology and is the immediate past chair of the CT State Board of Education. She previously served as chief of staff and chief administrative officer for Mayor John DeStefano, Jr. in New Haven.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Dr. DuBois-Walton is actively engaged in community building, advocacy and civic leadership. She serves as chair of the Board of the Melville Charitable Trust, overseeing a $130 M asset base and directing program and mission-related investments toward addressing the root causes of the crisis of homelessness. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Yale University, and master’s degree and Ph.D. from Boston University. She resides in New Haven with her family. 

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About The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven
The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven’s mission is to inspire, support, inform, listen to and collaborate with the people and organizations of Greater New Haven to build an ever more connected, inclusive, equitable and philanthropic community. Established in 1928, The Foundation is one of the oldest and largest community foundations in the U.S. Generations of donors past and present have built the Foundation’s permanent charitable endowment, which serves 20 towns in Greater New Haven. The Foundation operates under a strategic plan to expand opportunity and equity throughout our region. For more information about The Foundation, visit cfgnh.org or follow @cfgnh on Facebook and Twitter

Treasurer Erick Russell will deliver keynote remarks at the United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut’s 2024 Impact Breakfast on Tuesday in Norwalk. The event is being held to celebrate the achievements of the organization and to unveil its new strategic plan. Treasurer Russell’s remarks will connect the mission of the United Way with work being done in the Office of the Treasurer to strengthen economic participation across Connecticut.

What:   Treasurer Russell Delivers Keynote at United Way Event

When:   Tuesday, September 17, 2024
                        8:00 AM – 9:30 AM

Where:  Pinstripes
           100 North Water St.
           Norwalk, CT