To put it into perspective: with a one percent COLA, a retiree who worked for 15 years would receive only $2.60 more in their monthly benefit. For nearly two decades, he has reported and offered analysis on government, public policy, business and matters of faith. More Than 650 Texas Laws Go Into Effect Sept. 1. The Legislature has provided 13th checks to retired teachers during each of the last two sessions, as well as in 2007. A one-time check up to $2,400 is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated. where Lt. Gov. Occasionally, rumors circulate that the COLA will be eliminated or adjusted. 13th Check to Retired Teachers Will Be Issued in January 2022 Posted on September 17, 2021 by hinojosa AUSTIN, TX Today, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) adopted a resolution directing TRS staff to prepare and issue the 13th check authorized by the Texas Legislature during the Second Called Special Session. "Representative Jeff Smith tried to calm retirees fears via Facebook. This would be the first 13th check retirees have received since 2007. where Lt. Gov. It's known as the 13th check. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400. Can I waive or disclaim my right to receive the supplement payment? Providing a 13th check for our retired teachers is yet another way we can honor their commitment to our children and to the future of Texas. 2006) was amended in 1999 to provide for the automatic 3 percent annual benefit adjustment that is used to calculate COLA amounts. Capo argues that an adjustment is fair for former teachers degreed professionals paid far below what others in comparable industries are paid. "We made a commitment to our state employees," said Miles. The COLA benefit increase of 3.33% is based upon the state-mandated increase to the salary for actively employed judges and magistrates in positions covered by the Judges' Retirement System. PERS Executive Director Pat Robertson sent the follow information: "What is often referred to as the 13th check is not a bonus, but, in reality, is simply a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) added to a retirement benefit to account for effects of inflation. This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? He made note that the "COLA" check isn't a real cost of living increase, saying that after the first three years it's an automatic 3% increase. "I think there's a tendency that people forget that the wall and halls of the Capitol talk and seem to leak out," said Representative Tom Miles. The Kentucky swimmer is an outspoken proponent for protecting biological females in athletic competition. This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? The 13th check comes as a result of legislation passed this September. "It doesn't matter what it's called," noted Hughes. But it is definitely a Band-Aid. For more information on the release of this one-time supplemental payment, check out the FAQ on the TRS website. Gulf of Mexico warming at faster rate than global ocean, study finds, At these old-school restaurants in Texas, you feel like its an extension of your home, Greg Abbott says if these corporate tax breaks return, renewable energy should be excluded. A decade ago, Indiana leaders provided both a 13th check and a COLA that was usually over 2% to invest in the retirees that invested in the state. 2006: $232,710,000 ($22 million) Copyright 2017 MSNewsNow. The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. Providing a 13th check for our retired teachers is yet another way we can honor their commitment to our children and to the future of Texas. All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. Earning your trust every day. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400. 2011: $368,645,000 ($30 million) 2023 Copyright American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO. The work needed to get the Legislature to pass a COLA for TRS retirees does not begin in January: it starts NOW. TRTA members, we are at a pivotal time. Mississippi is no exception, Sen. Wiggins said. 6:57 PM on Jul 13, 2021 CDT. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. But is it ultimately just a drop in the bucket? TRTA members, we are at a pivotal time. This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate 31-0 and 145-1 in the House. Texas AFT represents all non-administrative certified and classified public school employees in the state of Texas. Its Now Easier To File A Complaint In Texas, The Long Road To A New Performing Arts Center In Frisco, Heel To Toe: This Little Cowboy Has A Boot Obsession, Abortion Activists Say Pregnant Texans Are Collateral In Senate Bill 8s Battle Against Abortion, In a Central Texas county, high schoolers are jailed on felony charges for vaping what could be legal hemp, As Texas STAAR test goes fully online, teachers feel defeated, Texas Education Agency projects confidence. "They depend on that 13th check. 2007: $255,939,000 ($23 million) 2021 Texas Standard. As a state, we must honor our legal obligations to current and soon-to-be retirees, Wiggins said. Developed by. "We should honor that commitment. The 13th check confused many retirees when it was distributed in mid-January, as their regular check came in that same month less than they expected. We represent the interests of teachers, counselors, librarians, diagnosticians, custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, nurses, teaching assistants, clerical employees, and the other employees who make our schools work. WebRetired Judges plan members will receive a 3.33% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) effective July 1, 2022. The walkout in the Legislature could end up hitting retired teachers in their pockets. The work needed to get the Legislature to pass a COLA for TRS retirees does not begin in January: it starts NOW. Just to say we're not going to touch your retirement. 1. It's disappointing to see the supermajority once again place a rainy day fund over the everyday needs of hardworking Hoosiers, Porter said. HB 1028, 13 th check bill with a $50.00 increase from the last 13 th check paid in 2020, was passed unanimously by the House on February 14, 2023. A service of the Moody College of Communication at the University of Texas at Austin | Contact us, A service of the Moody College of Communication at the University of Texas at Austin. 2016: $559,888,063 ($43 million) Earning your trust every day. All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. 1. Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400. The COLA was no small part of the deficit between contributions and payments that grew to $1.2 billion last year., Given the trends, the question before Mississippi leaders and taxpayers alike is, How sustainable is the 13th Check?, Senate Appropriations Vice Chairman Sen. Brice Wiggins told Yall Politics this is not an issue unique to Mississippi, Nationwide, states continue to struggle with how to pay for their obligations to retirees and potential retirees. While inflation may have been relatively modest in the last several years, the historical average is 3 percent (hence the 3 percent COLA). I suspect these questions will continue to be asked as we enter the appropriations process.. Members who retired before the end of 2020 or beneficiaries of a member who died before the end of 2020 are eligible. For many, TRS may offer the only form of retirement income. WebNOW is the time for a meaningful and substantial COLA for TRS retirees. Questions arise about future of public retirees' 13th check, Former wrestler tied to TANF scandal pleads guilty to conspiracy in federal court, 42K Mississippians without power after strong winds cause outages, Request a First Alert Weather School Visit. Final passage of this bill into law will require the House Democrats who have fled the state to return to the House for a quorum. Retired teachers in Texas have not received a cost-of-living increase since 2013. Passing Voting Bill Priority In Last Days Of Second Special Session, Orange Countys Running Two Hurricane Ida Shelters Amid Severe Coronavirus Spread, I Will Never Tell Anyone Theres No Hope San Antonio Afghans Who Helped US Troops Fear For Their Families, Sexually Harassed At Work? Instead of squashing rumors, it fired some up even more. Photographs and illustrations, as well as text, cannot be used without permission from AFT. The COLA is equal to 3 percent of a retiree's annual base benefit for each full fiscal year of retirement prior to the year in which he or she reaches age 55 (for those hired prior to July 1, 2011) or 60 (for those hired July 1, 2011, and after), plus 3 percent compounded for each fiscal year thereafter, beginning with the fiscal year in which he or she turns age 55 (for those hired prior to July 1, 2011) or 60 (for those hired July 1, 2011, and after). We shouldn't back up on it. A 13th check was first authorized by the Mississippi Legislature in 1966 as an additional check in December; however, Miss. This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) and PERF members. The bill gives retired teachers, counselors and school staff in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRST) who retired on or before Dec. 31, 2020, an additional, one-time retirement check. This would be the first 13th check retirees have received since 2007. 2018: $650,465,578 ($47 million) What I read is this is the foundation for taking away that promise. All Rights Reserved. Built by Moticos Studios. 2012: $402,514,750 ($33 million) 1000 Red River St. - Austin, Texas 78701 The 13th check confused many retirees when it was distributed in mid-January, as their regular check came in that same month less than they expected. Those using direct deposit to receive TRS pension checks will likely receive the deposit that same day, but there might be a slight delay in processing the deposit due to Martin Luther King Jr. bank holiday weekend. JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) - Public retirees get a cost of living adjustment added to their benefits every year. All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. EARLIER THIS YEAR: More than 400,000 retired Texas teachers receive 13th check today. Only the Texas Legislature can approve a COLA for TRS retirees. "People depend on that pension," Scott explained. 1. The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. 6:57 PM on Jul 13, 2021 CDT. Disclosure: As employees of the University of Texas at Austin, the staff on Texas Standard are members of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. The 13th check confused many retirees when it was distributed in mid-January, as their regular check came in that same month less than they expected. The Texas AFT Legislative Team lobbied for and supported the passage of this bill but have continued to push legislators to pass a much needed and much overdue cost of living adjustment to permanently increase the regular monthly payments which TRS members receive. That's an insult to the service of our retired teachers and state workers. Email Frank: frank@magnoliatribune.com. Rep. Greg Bonnen, chair of the Appropriations Committee, pointed out that if retirees receive a 13th check this year and a COLA in the 2023 Legislative Session, theyd actually be receiving more money overall than they would have if a These FAQs are a guide to common questions related to public benefits as a result of the 13th Check Payment. where Lt. Gov. A 13th check, a one-time additional payment of up to $2,400, could be headed to retirees no later than January 2022, if approved in the special session While PERS cannot predict the actions of the Legislaturethe only governing body with the authority to change retirement benefitsI feel confident that providing a COLA is recognized as being important to the retirement security of retirees.". WebRetired Judges plan members will receive a 3.33% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) effective July 1, 2022. The Senate can take action on the House bill as soon as the week of March 6. 1000 Red River St. - Austin, Texas 78701 This 13th paycheck is a welcome gesture for retired teachers whose annuities have stagnated but can it make a long-term difference for retirees pocketbooks? Texas AFT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers and AFL-CIO. Here Are 13 You Should Know. The Public Employees Retirement System of Mississippi (PERS) annual cost of living adjustment, otherwise known as the 13th Check, has grown nearly $400 million over the last decade. 2023 Indiana House Democratic Caucus. The walkout in the Legislature could end up hitting retired teachers in their pockets. This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. 2014: $476,401,043 ($38 million) This would be the first 13th check retirees have received since 2007. Teachers who retired after Sept. 1, 2004 have never seen a cost-of-living increase to their pension plan. 2023 Magnolia Tribune. Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFR). Both the Texas House and Senate have unanimously approved a measure giving retired Texas public school teachers and staff a one-time check of up to $2,400. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate 31-0 and 145-1 in the House. Teachers who retired after Sept. 1, 2004 have never seen a cost-of-living increase to their pension plan. Due diligence requires us to continue to look at such ways. 2009: $312,471,000 ($31 million) But, we, and I mean all Mississippians, have to be willing to make hard decisions if we want our state to be financially viable for the future. WebNOW is the time for a meaningful and substantial COLA for TRS retirees. 6:57 PM on Jul 13, 2021 CDT. He says if there's every going to be a change, it may well be that. The bill headed to the Governor will add restrictions to the opening of any new physical locations of EV manufacturers within the state, forcing them to follow franchise laws. Teacher's Retirement System. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. HB 1028, 13 th check bill with a $50.00 increase from the last 13 th check paid in 2020, was passed unanimously by the House on February 14, 2023. Final passage of this bill into law will require the House Democrats who have fled the state to return to the House for a quorum. All rights reserved. Sen. Wiggins expects this discussion will be on the table as Appropriations works through the state budget process this session. COLAs help ensure that retiree purchasing power remains relatively the same no matter how long a retiree may live and how quickly prices might rise. The payment has been dubbed a 13th check an addition to retired teachers monthly pension checks. This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. Dr. Robert Taylor, the state's new Superintendent, says there is much to celebrate about Mississippis progress in public education. Teachers who retired after Sept. 1, 2004 have never seen a cost-of-living increase to their pension plan. This week the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) announced that retired teachers will be receiving their one-time supplemental benefit check (commonly referred to as a 13th check) next Friday, January 14. All rights reserved. The 2021 enacted state budget provided a one-percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to retired teachers and state employees in lieu of a 13th check, which is a one-time, post-retirement payment based on an individual's number of years vested in their retirement plan. A 13th check, a one-time additional payment of up to $2,400, could be headed to retirees no later than January 2022, if approved in the special session Members who receive paper checks should expect a regular delay due to postage. TRTA members, we are at a pivotal time. Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) The bill was referred to the Senate on February 15. The payment has been dubbed a 13th check an addition to retired teachers monthly pension checks. The Texas Pension Coalition (TPC) worked hard for retired teachers in Texas to receive a 13th check. Last week, Texas lawmakers passed SB 12, which will provide a 13th check of up to $2,000 for retired teachers. The walkout in the Legislature could end up hitting retired teachers in their pockets. The Senate can take action on the House bill as soon as the week of March 6. But he also points out participants in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, or TRS, are not only teachers. And that's why the president of the Mississippi Alliance for Public Employees Brenda Scott is holding her breath for the session and asking retirees to pay attention. He is a frequent guest on radio and television, providing insight and commentary on the inner workings of the Magnolia State. Its an appreciated one; its certainly better than nothing, absolutely. The work needed to get the Legislature to pass a COLA for TRS retirees does not begin in January: it starts NOW. 2013: $437,808,691 ($36 million) The COLA benefit increase of 3.33% is based upon the state-mandated increase to the salary for actively employed judges and magistrates in positions covered by the Judges' Retirement System. EARLIER THIS YEAR: More than 400,000 retired Texas teachers receive 13th check today. We have a tremendous number of bus drivers, cafeteria workers and others that do not collect Social Security. It's nearly a month till lawmakers fill these hallways again but the chatter is already starting up. Theyre completely dependent on the retirement check they receive from the state retirement system., Absent any broader action, Capo calls the 13th check a Band-Aid.. Teacher's Retirement System. 1000 Red River St. - Austin, Texas 78701 "Still, it wouldn't be the first time the COLA check has been brought into question. Retired teachers in Texas have not received a cost-of-living increase since 2013. Every year about this time we hear the unfortunate forecasts of being able to meet these obligations while funding other needs.. The Legislature has provided 13th checks to retired teachers during each of the last two sessions, as well as in 2007. The payment has been dubbed a 13th check an addition to retired teachers monthly pension checks. The amendment was ruled out of order and therefore not granted a vote. Zeph Capo, president of the Texas American Federation of Teachers, says while a 13th check is most certainly helpful in mitigating some of the harm thats been done to retirees in the form of stagnant annuities, its certainly not enough. Instead, the teachers union would prefer lawmakers look at a permanent cost of living adjustment that ensures that the system will be able to keep up with inflation. The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. 2005: $211,530,000, As JJ states in their analysis, The funding level has fluctuated around 60% over the last five years despite two employer contribution increases of 300 basis points. Can I waive or disclaim my right to receive the supplement payment? The COLA benefit increase of 3.33% is based upon the state-mandated increase to the salary for actively employed judges and magistrates in positions covered by the Judges' Retirement System. A 13th check, a one-time additional payment of up to $2,400, could be headed to retirees no later than January 2022, if approved in the special session 25-11-112 (Rev. The Senate can take action on the House bill as soon as the week of March 6. By Jill Ament and Wells DunbarAugust 31, 20212:18 pmBusiness & Your Money, Education, Government & Politics. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate 31-0 and 145-1 in the House. Its not fixing the structural problem we have with the system, he said. HB 1028, 13 th check bill with a $50.00 increase from the last 13 th check paid in 2020, was passed unanimously by the House on February 14, 2023. Providing a 13th check for our retired teachers is yet another way we can honor their commitment to our children and to the future of Texas. The least this body can do is show our retired Hoosiers the respect they deserve and pay them what they are owed.. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Advocates are pushing for legislation to help them. The bill gives retired teachers, counselors and school staff in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRST) who retired on or before Dec. 31, 2020, an additional, one-time retirement check. All PERS retirees and beneficiaries who have been receiving benefit payments for at least one full fiscal year (July 1 through June 30) are eligible to receive a COLA. Teacher's Retirement System. Can I waive or disclaim my right to receive the supplement payment? 2010: $338,628,000 ($25 million) 2015: $517,283,072 ($41 million) And there's talk on social media that it could be in jeopardy next session. Frank has served his community in both elected and appointed public office, hosted his own local radio and television programs, and managed private businesses all while being an engaged husband and father. New State Treasurer David McRae will be delving into this issue, as well, given the impact on Mississippis credit rating. I look forward to my first meeting as a member of the PERS board next month and helping address this issue, Treasurer McRae told Yall Politics. Rep. Greg Bonnen, chair of the Appropriations Committee, pointed out that if retirees receive a 13th check this year and a COLA in the 2023 Legislative Session, theyd actually be receiving more money overall than they would have if a 13th Check to Retired Teachers Will Be Issued in January 2022 Posted on September 17, 2021 by hinojosa AUSTIN, TX Today, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) adopted a resolution directing TRS staff to prepare and issue the 13th check authorized by the Texas Legislature during the Second Called Special Session. Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) EARLIER THIS YEAR: More than 400,000 retired Texas teachers receive 13th check today. The bill gives retired teachers, counselors and school staff in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRST) who retired on or before Dec. 31, 2020, an additional, one-time retirement check. These FAQs are a guide to common questions related to public benefits as a result of the 13th Check Payment. "The fact is that employees worked their career at the state for that promise. $5 billion is currently sitting in our surplus, gathering dust, with even more expected in the coming year. Now it's time to follow that.". 2008: $281,124,000 ($25 million) We also represent employees in universities, colleges, and community and junior colleges. Retired teachers in Texas have not received a cost-of-living increase since 2013. Final passage of this bill into law will require the House Democrats who have fled the state to return to the House for a quorum. The health of PERS has perhaps the greatest impact on our states credit rating., By joining our newsletter, you are confirming that you agree with the Privacy Policy, Frank Corder is a native of Pascagoula. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. 2017: $603,318,841 ($43 million) Rep. Greg Bonnen, chair of the Appropriations Committee, pointed out that if retirees receive a 13th check this year and a COLA in the 2023 Legislative Session, theyd actually be receiving more money overall than they would have if a WebNOW is the time for a meaningful and substantial COLA for TRS retirees. Jackson Jambalaya recently provided an analysis of the PERS annual COLA, outlining the year-to-year data from the PERS Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports (CAFR), shown below: 2019: $699,947,000 ($50 million) The checks should be in an amount either equal to their regular annuity payment or $2,400, whichever is less. Only the Texas Legislature can approve a COLA for TRS retirees. Additionally, since 1994, retirees may receive the COLA in either monthly payments or in the lump sum form of a 13th check paid in December. Franks interviews, articles, and columns have been shared throughout Mississippi as well as in national publications such as the Daily Caller. 13th Check to Retired Teachers Will Be Issued in January 2022 Posted on September 17, 2021 by hinojosa AUSTIN, TX Today, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) adopted a resolution directing TRS staff to prepare and issue the 13th check authorized by the Texas Legislature during the Second Called Special Session. The Texas Pension Coalition (TPC) worked hard for retired teachers in Texas to receive a 13th check. Last week, Texas lawmakers passed SB 12, which will provide a 13th check of up to $2,000 for retired teachers. Amendment #2 to House Bill 1260 would have provided a $250 payment in 2022 to the Teachers' Retirement Fund (TRF) Allrights reserved. INDIANAPOLIS State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, today offered a proposal to provide a 13th check for retired teachers and state employees. The bill was referred to the Senate on February 15. The COLA is equal to 3% of the annual retirement allowance for each full fiscal year of retirement up to the year in which the retired member reaches age 60 (55 for those who became members of PERS before July 1, 2011), with 3% compounded for each fiscal year thereafter. These FAQs are a guide to common questions related to public benefits as a result of the 13th Check Payment. Only the Texas Legislature can approve a COLA for TRS retirees. Earning your trust every day. The Legislature has provided 13th checks to retired teachers during each of the last two sessions, as well as in 2007. At that rate of increase, the 13th Check could exceed $1 billion before the end of the next decade due to the manner in which the benefit is calculated. The Texas Pension Coalition (TPC) worked hard for retired teachers in Texas to receive a 13th check. Last week, Texas lawmakers passed SB 12, which will provide a 13th check of up to $2,000 for retired teachers. WebRetired Judges plan members will receive a 3.33% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) effective July 1, 2022. The bill was referred to the Senate on February 15. Code Ann. Millions of Texans have rare diseases. "Rumors are about 90 percent of the way things happen here at the Capitol and they're always based on something that was heard," added Representative Jay Hughes.Representatives Tom Miles and Jay Hughes have posted concerns over a rumor that there might be a push next year to do away with the "COLA" (13th check) for retirees during the coming session.

Epicureanism Vs Christianity, How Long Does Blurred Vision Last After Scopolamine Patch, Why Is "drumming" Spiritually Important To The Yoruba?, How To Disable Shader Cache In Nvidia Control Panel, St Anne's Hospital Cafeteria Menu, Articles W