Citizen Suburban Times Weekly 10-4-2023

WELCH INTRODUCES BILL TO ALLOW LEGISLATIVE STAFF TO UNIONIZE

Speaker says he hopes to pass bill in upcoming veto session

SPRINGFIELD – House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, has filed legislation that would, for the first time in Illinois, authorize legislative staff to form a union and engage in collective bargaining.

House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, is

pictured

with

Senate President Don Harmon (left), D-Oak Park. (CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS FILE

PHOTO BY JERRY NOWICKI)

Welch introduces bill to allow legislative staff to unionize

Continued from page 1

Speaker says he hopes to pass bill in upcoming veto session

SPEAKER SAYS HE HOPES TO PASS BILL IN UPCOMING VETO SESSION

BY PETER HANCOCK CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS PHANCOCK@CAPITOLNEWSILLINOIS.COM

SPRINGFIELD – House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, has filed legislation that would, for the first time in Illinois, authorize legislative staff to form a union and engage in collective bargaining.

House Bill 4148, creating the Legislative Employee Labor Relations Act, comes in response to a monthslong effort by Democratic staff in the speaker’s office to unionize and negotiate wages, hours and other working conditions.

“For a while now, I had some staff approach my office seeking voluntary recognition as a union,” Welch said in an interview Wednesday. “And my legal advisors advised me that Illinois law currently specifically prohibits that. So as someone who believes in workers’ rights, this legislation is my attempt to create a legal path for them to have that right.”

Last year, a group of workers in the speaker’s office formed the Illinois Legislative Staff Association, which has been seeking recognition as a union. Brady Burden, a member of that group’s organizing committee, said in an email Wednesday that the committee was scheduled to meet with management in the speaker’s office later that day.

“We are happy to see the Speaker file this bill,” Burden said in a statement after that meeting. “We look forward to working together in good faith and coming to an agreement.”

In Illinois, private-sector unions are governed by the National Labor Relations Board while public-sector unions are governed by the Illinois Labor Relations Board. But the law creating that board and outlining its powers specifically excludes employees of the General Assembly from the definition of “public employee.”

Last year, however, the General Assembly passed, and Illinois voters approved, a Workers’ Rights Amendment to the state constitution that that declares employees “shall have the fundamental right to organize and to bargain collectively through representatives of their own choosing for the purpose of negotiating wages, hours, and working conditions, and to protect their economic welfare and safety at work.”

But Michael LeRoy, a labor law expert at the University of Illinois, said earlier this month that the wording of that amend-

ment could be construed as vague, and it wasn’t clear whether it would apply retroactively to public employees that were already legally barred from unionizing.

As a result, the Illinois Legislative Staff Association had been asking Welch’s office to voluntarily recognize their union. Welch’s comments Wednesday indicated his legal advisors did not believe that was authorized under law.

HB 4148, however, would specifically authorize legislative staff to unionize and it would give the ILRB jurisdiction over collective bargaining matters for staff unions, including authority to conduct elections within employee groups seeking to unionize.

It would establish an Office of State Legislative Labor Relations to represent the General Assembly in collective bargaining with legislative staff. That office would have a director appointed by a Joint Committee on Legislative Support Services.

The bill provides that the General Assembly is not required to bargain over matters of “inherent managerial policy,” including the General Assembly’s budget, organizational structure, and hiring of new employees.

It also provides that any employee in a group represented by a union may be required to pay a “fair- share” fee to cover their proportionate share of the costs of collective bargaining, regardless of whether they choose to join the union.

Until 2018, Illinois government employees who benefitted from the bargaining of the AFSCME Council 31 public employee union were subject to such fair-share fees if they did not join the union. The state stopped collecting those fees in that year, however, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Janus v. AFSCME that the fees violated the First Amendment rights of individuals who did not want to join the union.

Welch said he intends to push for the bill’s passage in the upcoming fall veto session, which begins Oct. 24.

A spokesperson for Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN FOR GOLDEN APPLE’S SCHOLARS TEACHER PREPARATION PROGRAM

ILLINOIS -- Golden Apple, a non-profit committed to preparing, supporting and mentoring aspiring teachers, is now accepting applications for its Scholars program. Golden Apple seeks to provide a pathway for aspiring educators to enter the profession through this program to build the teacher pipeline that will fill crucial open teaching positions across the state.

Illinois faces an ongoing teacher shortage crisis, leading to classrooms lacking the highly-effective, well-qualified educators our students deserve. According to the 2022 - 2023 Educator Shortage Report from the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents, 79% of school districts statewide reported having a teacher shortage problem in 2022, with more than 2700 open teacher, special education, and support staff positions remaining unfilled or filled with someone less than qualified. The teacher shortage crisis leads to teacher burnout, overcrowded classrooms, and a lack of educators in areas such as bilingual and special education and STEM.

“Opening applications for our Scholars program is always an exciting time for Golden Apple, but it’s particularly meaningful this year as we look to welcome the largest class of

Scholars in the program’s decades-long history,” said Golden Apple President Alan Mather. “There are so many looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of future generations who just need the support to get into the classroom. Providing that support is exactly what the Golden Apple’s Scholars program does, and we encourage all of those interested in teaching to apply. We look forward to hearing from inspiring future educators from all across our state!”

The Scholars program focuses on teacher preparation and tuition assistance for high school seniors as well as freshman and sophomore college students in Illinois who have the determination and drive to teach. Scholars receive up to $23,000 in financial assistance, extensive classroom teaching experience, academic and social-emotional support, job placement assistance and mentoring from Golden Apple’s award-winning teachers. Throughout the history of the program, 53% of Golden Apple Scholars have been Scholars of color and 97% of Scholars find employment within 90 days of graduation.

To learn more and apply, interested parties can visit www. goldenapple.org/scholars.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Announces Newest Class of Honorary Members

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, one of the country’s largest women’s service organizations, is delighted to announce the induction of 12 distinguished women as Honorary Members into its Alpha Omega Chapter. These accomplished women have demonstrated outstanding commitment to civic engagement and the advancement of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.’s principles, Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood.

International First Vice President for Membership, Gina Merritt-Epps, Esq., emphasized, “Today’s historic induction is evidence of our commitment to the vision of our Five Founders, who were very intentional when choosing new members.”

The induction ceremony took place on September 19, 2023 on the campus of Howard University, where these remarkable individuals were officially welcomed into Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. as Honorary Members.

Dr. Stacie NC Grant, International President and CEO, enthusiastically shared, “Our 2023 Honorary Member Class reflects the diversity and brilliance of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated! As the number one service organization, we are proud to extend membership to those who work aligned with Zeta’s principles.”

The new Honorary Members are:

Edna Cummings is a retired U.S. Army Colonel and Army Reserve Ambassador, which is equivalent to a Two Star General.

Jericka Duncan is an award-winning national news correspondent. She currently works for CBS and on various specialty programs on Black Entertainment Network (BET).

Dionne James is the creator of multiple million dollar businesses such as SOULtions Hair Care System.

Jennifer “Jennie” Joseph is a TIME Magazine Woman of the Year 2022 for her dedication to bringing awareness to the alarming rate of black maternal mortality.

Chrisette Michele is a Grammy Award winning R&B, soul and gospel singer and songwriter, best known for her very successful albums, “Epiphany” and her musical collaborations with a wide variety of artists, including Jay Z, TD Jakes, and John Legend.

Ann Nesby best known as the VOICE of

Sounds of Blackness, this two time Grammy award winning singer, songwriter, actress, and community advocate, her talents can be found in front of and behind the camera.

Tina Rodriguez is the Senior Director of Programming and Acquisition for aspireTV as well as sources content for UP Entertainments sister networks and platforms.

Melinda Santiago is the CEO of The Santiago Firm LLC, an entertainment services firm, and the CEO of Santi Media Group, LLC a multi-media company with three divisions, Santi-Books -the book publishing division, Santi Musicthe record label division, and Santi Films -the film and television production division, she is a serial entrepreneur in the entertainment industry.

Rashida Tlaib is the one of two Muslims elected to the United States Congress and the first Muslim woman to serve in the Michigan Legislature.

Debra Vines is the 2022 Top 10 CNN Hero for her unwavering efforts to educate and provide services to individuals with and families caring for loved ones who have been diagnosed with autism.

Anita Wilson is a three time Grammy Award nominee, gospel recording artist, and record label owner and executive.

Roslyn Young-Daniels is the president and founder of BLACK HEALTH MATTERS, an organization that seeks to educate and elevate communities about various health topics through community summits, educational sessions and online resources.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was founded on January 16, 1920, on the campus of Howard University and has since grown to become one of the most prestigious and impactful organizations worldwide. With a mission to foster its ideals and principles, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. is committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

As Honorary Members, these exceptional women will have the opportunity to work closely with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. in advancing its philanthropic initiatives and promoting social welfare. Their influence and expertise will undoubtedly enhance the organization’s ability to positively impact the communities it serves.

For more information about Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and its latest Honorary Members, please visit www.zphib1920.org.

Promising Students Benefit From Commitment to Developing Diverse Talent

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., PRNewswire -- National Black MBA Association Graduate Student Case Competition continues with Stellantis as exclusive sponsor

Event provides for skilled, high-potential MBA candidates from nation’s leading business schools to compete for $50,000 in scholarships

Competition conducted annually at National Black MBA Association’s conference and exposition

Talented MBA candidates from 20 of the country’s top business schools competed for $50,000 in scholarships in the 2023 National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Graduate Student Case Competition, sponsored by Stellantis.

The NBMBAA/Stellantis Graduate Case Competition is an annual event that gives high-potential graduate students an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and problem-solving skills in a formal competition.

The competition is held each year as part of the NBMBAA’s annual conference and exposition. This year, the Graduate Case Competition was held Sept. 13-14 in Philadelphia, and winning teams were announced Sept. 15.

“At Stellantis, we’re proud to continue our long-standing support of the National Black MBA Association and the Graduate Case Competition,” said Lottie Holland, vice president, diversity, inclusion, engagement and EEO compliance, Stellantis North America. “This impressive competition is a showcase event for diversity, leadership and student achievement that allows our company to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to identifying, recruiting and developing diverse talent and future business leaders that will fuel our success.”

Stellantis has been the exclusive sponsor of the Graduate Case Competition since 1995, with nearly 5,000 students participating over the years.

During the competition, teams are given a business case from which they develop solutions. Each student team then prepares and presents its case to a panel of experienced business executives. Teams are judged on their analysis of the case, the feasibility of their recommendations and the quality of their presentations.

For the 2023 NBMBAA Business Case, students were tasked to represent a consulting firm that will develop a U.S. marketing strategy that builds awareness, vehicle-buying consideration, long-term brand affinity and loyalty among Black consumers for Dodge, one of the iconic brands in the Stellantis portfolio.

This year, the students from Clark Atlanta University took home the first-place trophy as national champions and $25,000 in scholarships.

The second- and third-place teams represented Vanderbilt University and Auburn University, earning $15,000 and $10,000 in scholarships, respectively.

An important way Stellantis pursues its long-standing commitment to diversity is by supporting many diversity-serving organizations around North America, particularly in the company’s pursuit of diverse talent, a key ingredient in fueling its innovation.

“Initiatives such as this enable our company to make important investments in talent, ensuring a future thriving with a diverse and inclusive network of future leaders,” Holland said. “This commitment brings our company’s purpose and values to life - powered by our diversity, we lead the way the world moves.”

NBMBAA is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) member-based professional organization which leads in the creation of educational, wealth building and growth opportunities for Black students, professionals and entrepreneurs. Representing more than 21,000 members within 41 professional chapters, 33 Leaders of Tomorrow® chapters, and over 500 corporate and non-profit partners, the Association is dedicated to developing alliances that create intellectual and economic wealth in the Black community through its five channels of engagement: career, education, entrepreneurship, leadership and lifestyle.

Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) is one of the world’s leading automakers and a mobility provider. In North America, it’s best known for producing and selling vehicles in a portfolio of iconic and award-winning brands such as Jeep®, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Alfa Romeo and Fiat. Powered by its diversity, Stellantis leads the way the region and the world move – aspiring to become the greatest sustainable mobility tech company, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders as well as the communities in which it operates. For more information, visit www.stellantis.com.

PRNewsFoto.

Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza and Museum to open in November

PALM SPRINGS, Calif., PRNewswire -- The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is pleased to invite all to the much-anticipated Grand Opening of the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza and Museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 3.

Owned and operated by the Tribe, the 5.8-acre Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza in the heart of downtown Palm Springs celebrates the history, culture, and traditions of the Agua Caliente people. The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza features the new Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, The Spa at Séc-he that celebrates the Tribe’s ancient Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring, a Gathering Plaza, and an Oasis Trail.

“The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza provides an incredible opportunity for us to share and celebrate our history, culture, and traditions with this community and visitors from around the world,” Tribal Chairman Reid D. Milanovich said. “Each federally recognized tribe throughout this country has a distinct culture that includes traditions, language, historic clothing, and housing styles as well as historical food and medicine preparations. We want to share our culture with visitors through our authentic voice. This is our story, in our own voice. We are here today just like we have been since time immemorial.”

Inspiration for the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza design is rooted in Agua Caliente traditions such as basket weaving, pottery (ollas), and bird songs, and elements native to the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation including desert landscapes, rock formations found in the Indian Canyons, the Tahquitz Canyon waterfall, and the Washingtonia filifera palm trees — the only palm tree native to the California desert.

JCJ Architecture, of Phoenix, is the project designer. JCJ Architecture’s design concept for the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza reflects the Tribe’s values and ongoing commitment to the Agua Caliente people.

The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza comprises outdoor spaces, including the Gathering Plaza adjacent to the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring, originally known as Séc-he (the Cahuilla term for “the sound of boiling water”). The Oasis Trail provides an interactive, cultural learning environment. This trail mimics, on a smaller scale, the distinctive character, geology, flora, and beauty of the nearby Tahquitz Canyon and Indian Canyons, ancestral homes of the Agua Caliente people.

The new Museum is approximately 48,000 square feet and features permanent exhibition space dedicated to the history and culture of the Agua Caliente people, a dedicated changing gallery, educational classroom, adjacent teaching garden, and meeting-event space. The Museum Store showcases art, jewelry, and other products sourced directly from Native American artists and Native American-owned businesses from across the nation. The Museum’s Creation Migration Theater welcomes guests with a 12-minute, 360-degree animation of the Tribe’s creation story.

The Spa at Séc-he, which opened earlier this year, includes more than 72,000 square feet to celebrate the ancient healing waters of the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring with treatment rooms, men’s and women’s bathhouses, a tranquility garden, a salon, fitness center, outdoor pools, and health-forward dining. The water from the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring is estimated to be upwards of 12,000 years old and is unique as it contains a mineral make-up that has not been found anywhere else in the world. The Tribe has shared the healing water with visitors for more than 130 years. This new Spa is the fifth bathhouse or spa at the site, with the first one operating in the late 1880s.

Building upon the traditions of the Agua Caliente people and the world-renowned natural features of their ancestral lands, the new Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza encompasses a wide-range of experiences and learning opportunities that convey the values and legacy of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.

“The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza is one of the most important achievements in our Tribe’s history,” Chairman Milanovich said. “It allows us to share and celebrate our culture and educate guests about our history and who we are as a people. For us, it’s a dream come true that has been in the making for 30 years. When we share our culture, we preserve our culture.”

As an integral part of the Tribe’s vision initiated many years ago, the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza serves as a cornerstone to the longterm goals of the Tribe to share and celebrate its true identity.

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is a federally recognized Indian tribe located in Palm Springs, California, with more than 31,500 acres of reservation lands, which include portions of Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage and portions of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains. For more information about the Tribe, visit: www.aguacaliente-nsn.gov.

PRNewsfoto/ Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Here for the Holidays:

Make Them More Memorable Than Ever with Four Seasons

TORONTO, PRNewswire -- This year, the best gift of all may be sharing special moments, memorable meals, and epic adventures with family and loved ones, and friends old and new. The picture-perfect holiday celebration differs for everyone; it can be set on a sunny oceanfront paradise with twinkling turquoise waters or among scenic snow-covered mountains while sipping on handcrafted cocktails. Whatever the backdrop, Four Seasons offers a plethora of uniquely curated experiences to match any holiday inspiration and suit everyone from culinary connoisseurs to adventure-seekers. From a traditional après-style gathering around the table to a toast to the new year in grand style or a spur-of-the-moment family retreat, these experiences are opportunities to share and enjoy lifelong memories – all blanketed by the warmth and care of Four Seasons hospitality. Sunny Destinations to Celebrate the Holidays Island Getaways

Enter a five-acre (two hectare) UNESCO haven for up to 22 guests at Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll, where property event experts partner with guests to create a completely personalized experience. Whether it’s hitting the ocean to swim with sharks or lounging poolside and watching dolphins at play, Voavah invites its guests to dream with their eyes open and enjoy a truly unforgettable holiday.

Bask in the sun on the pristine blue waters of the Pacific Ocean aboard a 46-foot (14 metre) catamaran at Four Seasons Resort Hualālai. Aptly named Alaka’i Nui (great leader), the catamaran boasts an extended range, enabling guests to venture miles from the Resort to enjoy exciting new activities such as deepsea fishing and exploration of additional snorkelling locations and beaches.

Ring in the new year at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla while enjoying the sights from the famous Sunset Lounge and sounds from New York-based DJ Mia Moretti and Violinist Margot who are headlining the resort’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration.

Escape to an island hideaway at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa where the charming village setting complete with a lagoon, flower garden, and island spa provides total serenity. For adventure seekers, diving and surfing are island specialties and for the youngest guests, there are endless fun, educational, and culturally enriching activities available, from sandcastle building to hermit crab races.

Welcome 2024 in electrifying style with a Neon Party at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Thailand during a night filled with pulsating music and dazzling neon lights, including a fireworks display at

midnight.

Holiday Fun with the Whole Family Skate the night away on a secret terrace at Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City, where guests can enjoy music, seasonal snacks, and for adults, handcrafted cocktails from Fifty Mils, named one of the World’s 50 Best Bars.

At Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Santa plans to make a splash as he navigates the Ayung River before offering holiday greetings and treats for children at the Pici-Pici Kids Club. Meanwhile, at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Santa continues his annual tradition of catching a few breaks while riding the waves with guests and the TropicSurf team. Celebrate Christmas Eve in tropical-style poolside and enjoy an open-fire barbecue and Miami-inspired cocktails with views of turquoise Biscayne Bay at Four Seasons Hotel Miami.

Enchanted

Winter Escapes

Enjoy a cozy cabin dining experience in the middle of the bustling city at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis where a Nordic Village sits on the Hotel’s outdoor fourth-floor pool deck, Riva Terrace. On weekends, cabins are transformed into an open-air market featuring products from local artists, makers, and creators.

Indulge in a traditional fondue or raclette at Le Chalet des Etoiles, a Christmas Popup exuding a cozy alpine atmosphere decorated with twinkling lights and vintage skis located on the panoramic rooftop of Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva.

Indulge in an elevated après experience after a day on the slopes and head to Ascent Lounge at Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole to enjoy panoramic views of America’s most rugged peaks, all while sipping on a Backcountry Old Fashioned for a taste of Wyoming’s finest local whiskey.

Enjoy dive-in holiday movies in the new waterfall-edge pool at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago for special viewings of iconic holiday tales with popcorn and cookies for a family night to remember.

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts opened its first hotel in 1961, and since that time has been dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. Currently operating 126 hotels and resorts, and 53 residential properties in major city centres and resort destinations in 47 countries, and with more than 50 projects under planning or development, Four Seasons consistently ranks among the world’s best hotels and most prestigious brands in reader polls, traveller reviews and industry awards. For more information and reservations, visit fourseasons.com.

NYC designer Renee Cafaro presents plus size couture runway show at London Fashion Week

LONDON, PRNewswire -- This season at London Fashion Week, Renee Cafaro Atelier opened the day of shows for Oxford Fashion Studio’s Emerge show. Cafaro debuted her Spring/Summer 2024 collection, The Love Parade, named after a legendary music festival. It is a whimsical display of heart patterns, bright colors, and fun textures. Renee Cafaro is a designer from New York who creates luxurious and unique couture exclusively for plus sizes, and draws inspiration from many eras. “This collection is Carnaby Street meets Coachella. I wanted to blend modern, neon festivalwear with psychedelic patterns and mod silhouettes,” Cafaro explains.

The heart theme was not just about bold patterns but also about bold statements. The finale look included a hand-painted satin bubble cape jacket for what Cafaro calls a “collective art piece.” “I wanted to synthesize all of the themes of the collection and mission of my brand into [the final look]. The whole glamour of the outfit evokes 60s movie star style, but I gave it a psychedelic paint job and crystal-embellished it with a statement about self love. I then brought markers to the fitting and asked all of the models to add their own words to it…whatever statement they wish the world would know about being a woman in the plus size community because these models are all incredible activists and influencers in their own right and shouldn’t be treated like just hangers. Most were messages about ‘being enough’ or notes to

their younger selves and that made me cry!” the designer elaborated.

The 18-look collection progressed from daywear separates with surprising touches like matching a neon houndstooth slip dress with raincoat lining, heart cutouts and reversible skirts and maxi vests – and it transitioned all the way through to floral and sequined eveningwear. The psychedelic tee-shirt artwork was done by LA-based artist, Subconscious Junkyard and featured a beautiful curvy Lady Godiva-like figure, paired on the runway with her moto/miniskirt sets.

Plus supermodel of Project Runway fame, Liris Crosse, strutted down the runway to open the show in an acrylic raincloud-embellished raincoat to open the show, and once again in a jaw-dropping minidress that Cafaro dubbed, The Porcupine, for its thousands of Barbie pink sequin “spines” and crystals. Trinidadian-born model and influencer Sarah Hamel-Smith wore a groundbreaking creation by Cafaro, long gloves connected by a silk-flowered lattice shawl. “In all my years of obsessing over fashion history, I have yet to see a shawl with attached gloves and thought that would be so cool. I did an attached glove gown a few years ago so I guess I have a thing for gloves!”

Renee Cafaro Atelier is a fair-wage, ethical haute couture design house based in NYC. Dedicated to bolstering the local economy of the Garment District, all garments are created and sourced locally, including

JEMS by PENSOLE launch the FIRST JEM

COLUMBUS, Ohio, PRNewswire -- Designer Brands Inc. (NYSE: DBI) (the “Company” and “Designer Brands”), one of the world’s largest designers, producers and retailers of footwear and accessories, today unveiled the FIRST JEM, the inaugural shoe from the JEMS by PENSOLE brand. This momentous occasion marks the first shoe to roll off the assembly line at one of the first Black-owned footwear factories in the U.S. Based in Somersworth, NH, the factory opened earlier this year as part of a partnership between Designer Brands and JEMS by PENSOLE focused on creating opportunity for underrepresented Black designers in the footwear industry.

The FIRST JEM, available exclusively at DSW.com, is a shoe with a story unlike any other. While many sneakers are designed for or inspired by consumer lifestyle insights, trends, influencers, and professional athletes, the FIRST JEM is inspired by American history through the lens of

a Black man who changed an entire industry over 140 years ago: Jan Ernst Matzeliger.

“The FIRST JEM celebrates Matzeliger’s little-known legacy,” said legendary footwear designer Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, founder of JEMS by PENSOLE and Detroit-based Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design, the only design-focused Historically Black College & University in the country. “His invention of the Lasting Machine in 1883 revolutionized the way shoes are made and is still used today.

We’re celebrating his legacy and embodying that same revolutionary spirit, seeking to bring opportunity to new design talent and influence the face of the footwear industry.”

To truly memorialize Matzeliger’s impact, the FIRST JEM launches on his birthday, Sept. 15. With a hand-crafted leather finish and rich history in every stitch, this one-of-a-kind sneaker is a celebration of the past and a look at the future.

The Lasting Machine is shown on the sock liner, while the JEMS badge logo represents the most valuable gem of all — a diamond — symbolizing the gem that Matzeliger was, and the future gems that JEMS by PENSOLE will foster. Even the acronym, JEMS, stands for Jan Ernst Matzeliger Studio.

“Diversity drives innovation and brings new thinking, designs and products to consumers, yet Black representation sits at less than five percent across all design industries,” said Designer Brands President Bill Jordan. “We’re excited to partner with Dr. Edwards on the JEMS by PENSOLE line. FIRST JEM is just the beginning step in our goal to forge entrepreneurial opportunities for underrepresented footwear designers and make their vision and designs accessible to our customers at DSW stores.”

Designer Brands and JEMS by PENSOLE plan to utilize the new Somersworth factory to roll out future lines of athletic footwear by new brands and underrepresented designers in the coming years. JEMS by PENSOLE will be sold exclusively at DSW.com and future drops will be available at select DSW stores.

Model Liris in the “porcupine” sequin dress for The Love Parade SS24 collection. PRNEWSFOTO/ RENEE CAFARO ATELIER.

Model Tinar in the Renee Cafaro Atelier x Subconscious Junkyard collab tee and Moto/Mini set. PRNEWSFOTO/RENEE CAFARO ATELIER.

CHIEF LARRY SNELLING CONFIRMED BY CITY COUNCIL AS CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT SUPERINTENDENT

CHICAGO – Chief of the Bureau of Counterterrorism Larry Snelling was confirmed as the Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department by a unanimous vote from the Chicago City Council.

“I’m grateful for the City Council’s confirmation of Superintendent Larry Snelling today, marking a step forward in our journey to create a better, stronger, safer Chicago,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Superintendent Snelling is a proven leader who has the experience and the respect of his peers to help ensure the safety and well-being of all city residents, and address the complex challenges we all face related to community safety.”

“I am confident that by working collaboratively with our new superintendent and all vested stakeholders inside government and beyond, we can develop and implement comprehensive strategies that address the unique needs of each community and improve public safety throughout our great city.”

Snelling joined CPD in 1992 as a patrol officer in his home community of Englewood. This type of community-based policing experience remained core to his values and his experience as he ascended through the department.

After serving as a patrol officer in the 7th (Englewood) District, Superintendent Snelling was promoted to sergeant, serving in the 22nd (Morgan Park) District and Physical Skills and Operations sections for recruit training at the Police Academy. He returned to the 7th District as watch operations lieutenant before being promoted to

commander, and later, deputy chief of Area 2.

“It is a tremendous honor to answer the call to serve my hometown and the people of Chicago as Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department, and I thank the City Council for the overwhelming support,” said Superintendent Larry Snelling. “In order to continue to make progress as a department, we must embrace innovation and partnership, continue to strengthen morale, and go further in strengthening bonds of trust between police and community.

“We will do this in collaboration with Mayor Johnson and the full force of government. I promise to work with and on behalf of every community to strengthen safety and build a stronger city for the people of Chicago.”

Superintendent Snelling was raised on the South Side of Chicago. He is a product of Chicago Public Schools, graduating from Englewood High School, and holds a bachelor’s degree in adult education from DePaul University.

Superintendent Snelling redesigned the Department’s current force training model around national best practices and constitutional policing and has testified as an expert in federal use of force cases. Additionally, he was a lead trainer for field force training for the 2012 Chicago NATO Summit.

“I have seen Superintendent Snelling grow throughout his career and I know he is prepared to lead this Department with a fresh vision and a sincere love for our city,” said Interim Superintendent Fred Waller. “It has been a privilege to lead

CPD during this time and I know I am leaving it in good hands with Superintendent Snelling.”

In 2022, Superintendent Snelling was promoted to Chief of the Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism, which coordinates with the Office of Emergency Management and Communication and other city agencies, as well as other local, county, state and federal emergency responders, to respond to city emergencies.

“I am thrilled to see Superintendent Snelling take the helm of the Chicago Police Department,” said Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood. “As a pillar of this community as well as the rank and file of CPD, Snelling offers a vital perspective and unwavering commitment to community safety that will help transition the CPD into a new era of compassionate community policing and building safety for all.”

“I have full confidence in Superintendent Snelling’s ability to navigate the many challenges and champion an era of constitutional reform for the Chicago Police Department,” said Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) President Anthony Driver. “Superintendent Snelling has spent his 28-year policing career fostering invaluable relationships with the CPD as well as with city residents, community leaders, and public safety organizations. Under his leadership, he will build the bridges necessary for a community-oriented safety strategy.”

The confirmation comes after a monthslong, deliberative search and process led by the CCPSA.

Flamin’ Hot®

Enlists Megan Thee Stallion to Establish New Flamin’ Hot University

PLANO, Texas, PRNewswire -- As homecoming season heats up, Flamin’ Hot®, Frito-Lay’s famous flavor with a fiery attitude, teams up with GRAMMY award-winning musician and official reigning queen of hot Megan Thee Stallion to form Flamin’ Hot University. In a new online video, Megan Thee Stallion encourages students who embrace the spicy, rebellious spirit of the brand to attend the university. At the fictitious university that’s motto is “Education is Hot,” they can learn to “Unleash their Flamin’ Hot” through short, snackable courses on food, fashion and lifestyle.

As elevating your drip is one of the easiest ways to embrace confidence, Megan also gave her hottie stamp of approval to an exclusive line of Flamin’ Hot University merchandise created by streetwear designer Melody Ehsani. The collection features six items guaranteed to spice up your on-campus ‘fits, including a Stallion Varsity Jacket, Hot Girl Club Sweater, and more.

Proceeds from the merchandise collection will go towards establishing a scholarship fund, of up to $150,000, at Texas Southern University (TSU), an HBCU based in Houston and Megan’s alma mater. To purchase the exclusive merchandise and support the scholarship fund, visit MelodyEhsani.com while supplies last. TSU Tigers are encouraged to visit tsu.edu/flaminhot to learn more

about the scholarship.

“Every piece in this collection is as spicy as Megan Thee Stallion and the Flamin’ Hot snacks that inspired it,” said Ehsani. “I love that in addition to creating some bold and fun pieces, we were able to give back to the students at Texas Southern University.”

Additionally, Flamin’ Hot will make a separate contribution of $100,000 to the Pete and Thomas Foundation, the non-profit organization that Megan launched in 2022 that focuses on uplifting and assisting women, children, senior citizens, and underserved communities in Houston, Texas and across the world. The organization focuses on three core sectors – education, housing, health and wellness – and is committed to supporting mission-aligned, non-profit organizations, generating awareness around key campaigns and spearheading its owned and operated activities.

“I had an absolute blast bringing Flamin’ Hot University to life and tapping into my love for food and fashion,” Megan Thee Stallion said. “But more than anything, I’m extremely proud that we were able to uplift TSU students, establish an impactful scholarship fund, support the Pete and Thomas Foundation and promote the importance of education.”

“Everyone deserves to be their Flamin’ Hot self, but student loans can

create a significant burden on college graduates – especially at HBCUs where students graduate with 19% more debt than those at non-HBCUs1,” said Tina Mahal, senior vice president of marketing at Frito-Lay. “The Flamin’ Hot University scholarship fund at TSU was designed to ease some of the financial pressures student loans bring so graduates can focus on unleashing their hottest potential.”

With the perfect snack for every kind of spice lover, the entire Flamin’ Hot portfolio of snacks—from Cheetos® and Doritos® to Ruffles® and Funyuns®— is coming together for the first time in a national campaign to bring the heat. Exclusive Flamin’ Hot University-inspired packaging of Cheetos Flamin’ Hot and Doritos Flamin’ Hot Nacho are also available for purchase, while supplies last.

Potential students can visit FlaminHotUniversity.com and follow @flaminhot on social media to take part in the Flamin’

Hot University courses and view exclusive content.

Frito-Lay North America is the $23 billion convenient foods division of PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ: PEP), which is headquartered in Purchase, NY. Frito-Lay snacks include Lay’s® and Ruffles® potato chips, Doritos® and Tostitos® tortilla chips and branded dips, Cheetos® snacks, Stacy’s® pita chips, PopCorners® popped-corn snack, SunChips® multigrain snacks and Fritos® corn chips. The company operates 30+ manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and Canada, more than 200 distribution centers and services 315,000 retail customers per week through its direct-store-delivery model. Learn more about Frito-Lay at the corporate website, www.fritolay.com, on Twitter (@ fritolay), on Instagram (@fritolay) and on Facebook (Frito-Lay).

TASTEMADE DEBUTS BREAKTHROUGH NEW SERIES, STREET SOMM HOSTED BY “WOLF OF WINE” JERMAINE STONE

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Tastemade premiered their newest original series, Street Somm. In partnership with premium wine and spirits leader, Constellation Brands, Street Somm follows Wine Expert Jermaine Stone – also known as “The Wolf of Wine” – as he travels the country to explore mouth-watering eats, learns the story behind them, and finds unexpected wine pairings around every corner. The series premiered on Sept. 25, on the Tastemade streaming channel.

In Street Somm, wine connoisseur, food lover, and ambassador for the culture, Jermaine Stone, travels to six culinary hubs around the country – New York City, Savannah, San Francisco, Chicago, Houston, and Miami – discovering the most interesting food combinations that pair with his favorite wines. Each episode features a food expert from that city who takes Jermaine to explore its unique culture that influences its food and wine. Together, they challenge preconceived notions around elevating any dining experience with wine, as Stone shares his personal background as a first-generation American and Black wine expert. Along the way, Stone is introduced to chefs who break the mold and create unforgettable dining experiences that are distinctive to each city.

“The same way that I’ve blended cultures on my podcast, Wine and Hip Hop, I get to blend wine and cuisines across the country in Street Somm,” says Jermaine. “Filming season one of the show has been a life changing experience that I can’t wait to share with the world –

helping me achieve my mission of redefining American wine culture, and changing the way people that look like me are viewed all over the globe.”

In each episode, Stone chats with chefs and shares a wine that complements their meals, including:

New York City: Miriam Street Food, Don Antonio, Eleven Madison Park, and Pecking House

Savannah: The Pirate’s House, Chef Val Domingo’s Backyard, Chazito’s Latin Cuisine, and Mulberry Hall

San Francisco: The Chairman, Hadeem at Birba Wine Bar, Town Fare, and Saison

Chicago: Pilsen Yards, ROOH, The Fat Shallot, and Chef Donald Young at Jenny Yvas’ Studio

Houston: Yoyo’s Hotdog cart, Truth BBQ, Chef Ortega’s kitchen at Houston Community College’s Culinary Arts Program, and Chef Tiffani’s kitchen at Wire Road

Studios

Miami: The Salty Donut, Nossa Omakase, 1-800 Lucky, and Chef Calvin’s kitchen

“Street Somm leverages Tastemade’s storytelling expertise, pushing the wine industry and culture forward with the leading premium fine wine and craft spirits house,” says Larry Fitzgibbon, Co-Founder & CEO, Tastemade. “We’re excited to bring the first streaming show from our groundbreaking partnership with Constellation Brands to audiences around the world, sharing authentic stories and connecting wine culture with a new, younger, and more diverse audience.”

Street Somm highlights Constellation Brands’

leading Wine & Spirits portfolio, including The Prisoner, Blindfold, Kim Crawford, Meiomi, Robert Mondavi Winery, Ruffino, SALDO, Unshackled, and others.

“We partnered with Tastemade with the vision to welcome new and diverse consumers into the wine and spirits category, and our first streaming show, Street Somm, aims to do just that,” says Robert Hanson, Executive Vice President & President, Constellation Brands’ Wine & Spirits Division. “Our friend and ‘Wolf of Wine,’ Jermaine Stone, is an incredible force and the perfect host for this venture, providing a unique take on the category and showing some of the amazing experiences that bring people together over great wines and cuisines.”

Street Somm is the first streaming content premiering as part of the multi-year, multi-million dollar partnership announced earlier this year between Tastemade and Constellation Brands, bringing the stories of their premium wine and spirits portfolio into the homes of millions of monthly viewers. Starting with Street Somm, Tastemade and Constellation Brands are blending global wine and spirits culture with innovative storytelling. Through original series and social content, talent partnerships, media, and experiential partnerships, this partnership brings Constellation’s leading brands into the homes of consumers across the globe.

The series is executive produced by Taye Shuayb, Mike Aho, Joey Lucas and Ben Jehoshua.

Street Somm premiered on the Tastemade streaming channel on Sept. 25th at 7:00pm, airing weekly through October 30th; also available on-demand in the Tastemade mobile and TV apps and ad-free with Tastemade+.

Frito-Lay North America

PRNewsfoto/Tastemade

Lupus Foundation of America

Launches Mobile App for Lupus Self-Management Program

been using SELF for quite some time, and really enjoy so many facets of the program including the daily texts to my phone,” says SELF user, Jill Nelson, diagnosed with lupus in 2020.

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire

-- The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) announces the launch of a mobile app for its Strategies to Embrace Living with Lupus Fearlessly (SELF) program. The SELF program is designed to help people living with lupus better manage symptoms, stress, medications and working with their health care team. The SELF mobile app makes the program’s key features, including symptom and medication trackers, a journal, and a library of skill-building activities, even more accessible and easy to use on the go. This on-the-go mobility makes it easy for users to track information in the moment or have everything in the palm of their hand when at their doctor’s appointments. The SELF app also includes enhanced features such as:

PRNewsFoto/Lupus Foundation of America

Symptom tracker and journal are now linked for a complete view of your lupus experiences

Medication tracker uses auto-complete to help with spelling difficult medication names and suggesting common doses

A planning tool for you to decide when and how you will take your medication

Easier access to previous journal entries

The SELF app is for newly diagnosed

individuals who need help getting started managing this complex disease, people with lupus who want to feel more in control of their disease, and people with lupus who feel they manage their disease well but perhaps want a little help dealing with some of the ups and downs of lupus.

“I’ve been using SELF for quite some time, and really enjoy so many facets of the program including the daily texts to my phone,” says SELF user, Jill Nelson, diagnosed with lupus in 2020. “I feel empowered knowing the Lupus Foundation of America is there for me, readily available to lend support and resources, and I’m excited to see how the SELF app

expands this positive experience.”

The SELF program is the first self-management program tailored to the specific needs of a person living with lupus, and it was developed by the LFA with guidance from people with lupus, their doctors, behavior change scientists and other experts. SELF tailors a user’s experience based on their interests and needs, and is designed to be used at one’s own pace.

The SELF app is free and available to people with lupus in the United States, ages 18 years and over. It was developed with support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and AstraZeneca. The app is now available for download via Google Play and the Apple App Store. Learn more about SELF and how to participate at Lupus.org/SELF.

The Lupus Foundation of America is the national force devoted to solving the mystery of lupus, one of the world’s cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases, while giving caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Through a comprehensive program of research, education, and advocacy, we lead the fight to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus. Learn more about the Lupus Foundation of America at lupus.org.

Cigna Healthcare Takes Action To Fight Food Insecurity Among Seniors

BLOOMFIELD, Conn., PRNewswire -- Cigna Healthcare, the health benefits provider of The Cigna Group (NYSE: CI), is investing $1 million in national and community-based organizations this fall to address food insecurity among older Americans. Collectively, the funds are expected to provide more than 3 million meals to people in need, increase access to 1.88 million pounds of fresh produce, and save 21 million gallons of water and 2.89 tons of CO2e emissions in responsible food distribution, supporting better health and positively impacting the environment.

“Too many people in our country, including older adults, face challenges with food insecurity, which can lead to worsening health and vitality,” said J.B. Sobel, M.D., chief medical officer for Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare business. “Older adults are more likely to have various health conditions requiring specific diets to maintain and improve their health. Regular, reliable, healthy food can improve the health and vitality of those we serve, and we are committed to giving each person the opportunity to live well.”

Fifty-six innovative programs spanning 12 states received critical financial support enabling them to reach thousands of seniors who face food insecurity. The organizations range from local Meals on Wheels chapters and food banks to senior- and veteran-focused coalitions and

centers. The sponsorships will also fund foodand nutrition-based programs, such as food pantries, mobile food deliveries, and nutritional meal boxes.

Additionally, Cigna Healthcare is the first health benefits provider to exclusively sponsor The Farmlink Project, a nonprofit organization that connects farms with surplus harvest to communities around the United States. By connecting farmers to food banks, nutritious food is more accessible to those in need.

“We are incredibly proud to be partnering with Cigna Healthcare to rescue millions of meals this season,” said Aidan Reilly, co-founder and head of partnerships at The Farmlink Project. “Access to fresh and healthy food is vital for anyone to reach their healthiest, fullest potential, yet millions of Americans struggle with food insecurity each year. Through this partnership, we will be able to provide access to fresh produce to families across the country throughout the fall and holiday seasons, a time when it is needed most.”

Currently, one in 14 seniors face hunger in the United States, and six in 10 Americans have at least one chronic disease, many exacerbated by unhealthy diets. These diet-related chronic

diseases account for nearly 20% of all U.S. health care costs annually.

Food insecurity is a barrier that impacts access to care and contributes to health inequities. Addressing food insecurity among seniors is important to Cigna Healthcare, which offers Medicare Advantage plans to hundreds of thousands of older adults across the country.

Cigna Healthcare is a health benefits provider that advocates for better health through every stage of life. We guide our customers through the health care system, empowering them with the information and insight they need to make the best choices for improving their health and vitality. Products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI), including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Evernorth Health companies or their affiliates and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and others. Learn more at cignahealthcare.com

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