Chicago Weekend Citizen 10-4-2023

LIMES SMILES FOR MILES ANNOUNCES FALL PROGRAMS

Limes Smiles For Miles Inc. Daycare for Autism ASD/Special needs preschoolers has spaces for its six week fall session. The outdoor garden experience classroom program is open to children with Autism and Down Syndrome ages 3-5. It will run from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays, starting Oct. 14 and ending Nov. 11.

Limes Smiles For Miles provides child care services to low incomes families who have children with Autism and Down Syndrome. Their mission is to provide a safe space for those children, while building awareness and advocate for those children.

The cost is $175 for the six weeks. Scholarships are available. Limes Smiles

For Miles is locates at 2901 W. Warren Blvd. For more information call 773-217-5095, email limessmiles4miles.com, or visit www. limessmilesformiles.com.

THE 40TH ANNUAL UNCF CHICAGO WALK FOR EDUCATION RAISES $104,857

CHICAGO – The 40th Annual UNCF Chicago Walk for Education held at Burnham Park recently raised more than $104K in funds that will help deserving students go to college. More than 500 supporters came out to the event, which had an atmosphere of camaraderie filled with unity, purpose, and hope.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle returned this year to serve as the Honorary Chair of the walk. Popular radio personalities, Ramonski Luv from OmniChannel and Trey White from WGCI-FM, kept the crowd engaged and uplifted as the event’s co-emcees.

The occasion’s significance was highlighted by Fred Mitchell, Vice President, Development Mid-Atlantic/Midwest Divisions UNCF, who spoke of the “profound impact of UNCF over the past 79 years.” He emphasized the organization’s “vital role in making possible a quality education for thousands of students,” thereby giving them the foundation and paving the way for their success in life and in their future careers.

The event allowed participants to select a 5K walk/run or a 10K bike/skate course, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of Burnham Park on the city’s South Side. Special moments included an inspiring program featuring guest speakers, incredible performances by the Jesse White Tumblers, and an energizing warm-up session led by Chicago native Miss Illinois 2022, Monica Niá Jones. Jones became the first black woman in 20 years to hold the title.

TeResa Gaddis, UNCF Chicago Development Director, in expressing her gratitude, said, “It was a privilege to have Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle return to helm the walk. Her commitment to fostering higher education for our future generations is commendable. A big thank you to every individual and organization that came out to show their support.”

The 2023 walk was supported by national sponsors Colgate and Lowe’s, with local sponsors and donations from Aetna, ALDI, American Airlines, BMO Harris, Chicago Defender, Comcast, Gift of Hope, Huntington Bank, Marquee Sports Network, McDonald’s, NBC 5 Chicago, PepsiCo, Telemundo, Top Ladies of Distinction, Urban Prep Academies, WGN-TV 9 and Wyn-Win Communications.

For those who missed the event, want to relive the moments, or donate, please visit www. uncf.org/chicagowalk or ChicagoUNCFDay.org to participate in a silent auction where all proceeds support the walk. For more information about UNCF Chicago, visit www.uncf.org/chicago.

UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally-recognized pipeline of underrepresented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly-qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.

Chicago Department of Public Health gives update about respiratory diseases

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BY TIA CAROL JONES

The new and updated COVID-19 vaccines have been approved by the Federal Drug Administration. These new vaccines are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Chicago Department of Health.

According to Dr. Brian Borah, Medical Director for VaccinePreventable Diseases Surveillance at Chicago Department of Public Health, COVID-19, RSV, Influenza and other respiratory viral activity in Chicago is fairly low. However, it is expected the levels will increase in the coming weeks as the weather gets colder and people move indoors.

“Our most important recommendation is that everybody six months of age and older should get an updated COVID-19 vaccine and a new flu shot this year. These are the two best ways to prevent severe illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths due to these two illnesses,” Borah said.

Borah said that for a number of weeks, COVID-19 activity in Chicago and Cook County remains low. But, there has been a slight increase in some COVID-19 activity. He added that COVID-19 is a disease that still has the potential to cause sickness, hospitalizations and deaths in all age groups. CDPH continues to monitor COVID-19 and its rate of activity. When focusing in on community areas, the South and West sides of the city have relatively higher levels of COVID-19 hospitalizations.

When it comes to Flu and RSV, Borah said those continue to remain at low levels across the city. But, he added as the weather gets colder and people have holiday celebrations with family and friends, the rates are expected to increase. He said

because of these reasons, people should be prepared.

Dr. Jacqueline Tiema-Massie, Chicago Department of Public Health Immunization Program Director, said that vaccines are still the best way to prevent hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 and Flu. She reiterated what Borah said about the getting the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines, that everyone six months and older should get the vaccine.

Tiema-Massie said those age 5 and older should get one dose of the updated Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to protect against serious illness from COVID-19. Children younger than age 5 might need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccines to be up to date, which include one dose of the new COVID-19 vaccine. People who are moderately and severely immunocompromised may get additional doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Parents with children younger than age 5, are recommended to talk to their children’s healthcare provider regarding vaccines. Those who are immunocompromised should also check in with their healthcare provider about vaccine doses. For the flu vaccine, it is recommended that everyone older than six months get the vaccine.

Vaccines are available at healthcare provider offices. Now, the COVID-19 vaccine is not broadly free. Insurance status will be required to get the new COVID-19 vaccines. Those underinsured or uninsured can go to CDPH immunizations walk-in clinics to get the vaccine. The City of Chicago will host vaccine events. Some pharmacies will have access to COVID-19 vaccines for those who are uninsured and underinsured.

For more information about where to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine or Flu vaccine, visit https://tinyurl.com/ mrxchjec.

The Auditorium Theatre Proudly Presents Deeply Rooted Dance Theater One Night Only

CHICAGO – The Auditorium Theatre (Chicago’s landmark stage at 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive) proudly presents Deeply Rooted Dance Theater—a Chicago-based contemporary dance company rooted in traditions of American and AfricanAmerican dance—in a one-night-only performance Friday, November 3 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the theatre’s Made In Chicago Dance Series. Tickets are $25–85 and are available at auditoriumtheatre.org.

The high-energy mixed repertory program features choreography by the company’s Artistic Staff—Artistic Director Nicole Clarke-Springer and Resident Choreographers and CoFounders Gary Abbott and Kevin Iega Jeff—and Ulysses Dove. The program includes:

the world premiere of the full-length Madonna Anno Domini choreographed by Nicole Clarke-Springer, with music by Culoe De Song and Aretha Franklin

Ulysses Dove’s Vespers, returning by popular demand after its 2022 company premiere, with an electronic score by Mikel Rouse revivals by Gary Abbott and Kevin Iega Jeff

“The company and I are honored to once again be a part of the Made In Chicago Dance Series for our 2023–24 season,” said Clarke-Springer. “I am excited to bring back by popular demand Ulysses Dove’s Vespers as well as premiering the full-length Madonna Anno Domini after last year’s enthusiastic audience response. The Auditorium is the perfect home for these electrifying and inspiring works.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Deeply Rooted back to the Auditorium to kick off our Made In Chicago Dance Series.” says Auditorium Theatre CEO Rich Regan. “We are privileged in this

city to have such a diverse and artistically excellent roster of dance companies- many of which will perform in our 2023-24 season. Deeply Rooted always puts on a stunning show, and we can’t wait to welcome both Deeply Rooted and our devoted audience of dance lovers back to the Auditorium.”

Premiering in 1996, Deeply Rooted Dance Theater reimagines and diversifies the aesthetics of contemporary dance by uniting modern, classical, American, and AfricanAmerican traditions in dance and storytelling. Through its uncompromising pursuit of excellence, Deeply Rooted demonstrates the transformative power of art and beauty through performance, dance education, and cultural enrichment in Chicago and on the world stage. Deeply Rooted is rooted in traditions of American and African-American dance, storytelling, and universal themes that spark a visceral experience and ignite an emotional response in diverse audiences worldwide. Deeply Rooted collaborates with nationally renowned choreographers, across the spectrum of modern, ballet, and African dance, to reflect contemporary voices. For information, visit deeplyrooteddancetheater.org.

The Auditorium Theatre, located at 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive at Roosevelt University in Chicago, is an Illinois notfor-profit organization committed to presenting the finest in international, cultural, community, and educational programming to all of Chicago and beyond as The Theatre for the People. The organization also is committed to the continued restoration and preservation of this National Historic Landmark that originally opened in 1889.

The Auditorium Theatre is grateful for the support of the

Dr. Brian Borah is the Medical Director for Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Surveillance at Chicago Department of Public Health. PHOTO PROVIDED BY CDPH.

THE CHICAGO HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS (CHIARTS) STARTS THE 2023-24 SCHOOL YEAR

CHICAGO – Chicago’s first and only pre-professional public arts high school, The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts), located at 2714 W Augusta Blvd., welcomes a new school year with major leadership announcement, admissions applications for prospective students, and “Backstage Pass” immersive open house experiences.

ChiArts celebrates the start of a new school year with a diverse and energetic team of leaders heading up the academic, arts, and administrative staff. This summer, the school’s new Principal, Pavielle Driver, joined the team, along with Artistic Director Tina Boyer Brown being promoted to Executive Director and Dance Department Head Greer Reed stepping into the Artistic Director role. Also recently appointed: Assistant Principal Kanika Glover, Dean of Students Hedgar Giron, and ChiArts veteran educator Tracey Franklin promoted to Dance Department Head.

ChiArts’ dynamic administrative staff and all five conservatory heads invite interested 8th-grade students and their families to the open house “Backstage Pass” events. These immersive Open Houses will give students, parents, and guardians a “Backstage Pass” to check out the campus, meet with department heads and teachers from different conservatories, learn about the admissions process, see student performances, learn how to successfully audition, and ask any questions they may have. Every Open House will also include an academic and admissions informational session for families to learn about courses and how to apply.

the school continues its unique model of admitting novice students and encourages those with no training in the arts but who demonstrate a strong natural ability and a desire for learning to apply.

Each year, more than 65% of students accepted to ChiArts are novices. As Chicago’s first and only public high school offering pre-professional arts training, the school seeks to remove tuition and other barriers for Chicago’s youth and create a space for them to develop their talent, hone their skills, and thrive as creators, thinkers, and community members. At ChiArts, students can study in one of five disciplines: music, dance, theatre, visual arts, and creative writing. ChiArts strongly encourages all student artists to attend the Open House events and apply. Young artists attending ChiArts represent all 50 of Chicago’s wards, studying with the city’s most motivated educators and professional teaching artists. All scholarartists graduate with 2,500 hours of tuition-free arts training.

FOSTER ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION USDA FOREST SERVICE AWARD FOR AURORA

Aurora, IL – Recently, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) announced that the City of Aurora will receive a funding award through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry Program totaling $1,000,000. Made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act passed by Congress last year, the funding is designed to provide direct federal support to local communities for urban tree-planting and management. It will support the City of Aurora’s Urban Forest project, which includes development and implementation of an urban forest management plan, the planting of high-quality trees throughout the city, and enhanced workforce development to maintain the health of Aurora’s trees.

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CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

Music & Creative Writing Open House will take place on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Visual Arts will be on Wednesday, October 25 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Dance and Theatre will be Wednesday, November 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Due to the high volume of demand, ChiArts asks that each student bring no more than two guests to ensure that as many students and their families get an opportunity to attend.

Applications for enrollment at ChiArts are now open, and students can apply via GoCPS at www.cps.edu/ GoCPS until November 9, 2023. The GoCPS application will provide each applicant with a sign-up for an audition slot and the option to audition in person or virtually. More information on applying can be found on ChiArts’ website here. With equity central to ChiArts’ mission,

THE

AUDITORIUM...

2023-24 Season Global and Made In Chicago Dance Series Sponsor: The Florian Fund, Made In Chicago Dance Series sponsors: Joyce Chelberg, Pamela Crutchfield, and Patti Eylar and Charlie Gardner. The Auditorium Theatre 202324 Season is made possible in part by support from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency. The

Students at ChiArts participate in a rigorous program, including five hours of academics, three hours of arts education, and one to four hours of practice or rehearsal per day. The academic curriculum provides students with a college preparatory education. ChiArts utilizes a research-based multi-year curriculum in each discipline, ensuring instructional sequencing across grade levels and alignment with Illinois State and College Readiness Standards. ChiArts offers college prep, honors, and advanced placement (AP) classes. ChiArts takes pride in helping their students develop time management with their extended school day of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (the longest school day in Chicago), honing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in group performances and presentations and expanding students’ cultural awareness in one of Chicago’s most diverse student populations.

ChiArts Campus Tours are available to register for via this link here. These year-round Campus Tours take place on Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m. ChiArts also accepts invitations to High School Fairs. To contact ChiArts admissions for a High School Fair, email admissions@ chiarts.org and/or call 773-534-9718. For more information on ChiArts’ admission information, including upcoming tours and events both in-person and virtual this year, visit ChiArts.org.

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Auditorium’s official hotel partner is the Palmer House Hilton.

This Auditorium Theatre’s 202324 performance season features a dynamic mix of cultural events from ballet to rock and roll and everything in between. For more information on the Auditorium Theatre and a complete listing of events at the Auditorium Theatre, please visit AuditoriumTheatre.org.

“This is great news for Aurora,” said Congressman Foster. “Improving the environment has been such an important part of Aurora’s growth in the decades I’ve known it, and this funding will go a long way to expanding the urban forest in Aurora, making it easier for people to get outside and enjoy nature without having to leave the city. I’m proud of the work the city is doing to plant more trees and maintain their health so that future generations can also benefit from expanded green spaces. I will continue advocating for federal resources for IL-11 communities to protect our local environment and its natural beauty.”

“Needless to say, we have a million reason to be excited about this news and the future of forestry in Aurora,” said Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin. “Thanks to the USDA Forest Service and the integral local work led by the Aurora Tree Board and City staff, Aurorans will literally breathe easier well into the future because of the improved plans, maintenance, and health of our urban forest in the City of Lights.”

More information on the USDA Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry program is available here.

GIANNOULIAS ANNOUNCES ADDITIONS TO SKIP-THE-LINE PROGRAM

Plan includes opening two “Senior Only” centers in Chicago metro area

Additional appointment capacity added to accommodate driver’s license services Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced his office is implementing a number of additions to the Skip-the-Line program, which launched just three weeks ago.

From September 1 to September 21, Illinois Driver and Motor Vehicle facilities (DMVs) have seen more than 165,000 customers by appointment throughout the state. Customers with appointments are experiencing little to no wait times upon arrival at DMVs, which is a vast improvement compared to the hour-plus waits that Illinoisans had come to expect when visiting DMVs before adopting the Skip-the-Line program.

“The Skip-the-Line program has been functioning at a high level in the few weeks since its official launch,” Giannoulias said. “But we can still make improvements with targeted adjustments, and I am focused on implementing these to benefit all of our customers, especially our seniors.”

Giannoulias announced his office will implement the following additions, many of which are tailored specifically toward seniors:

Opening two “Senior Only” walk-in centers in the Chicago area. The two locations include the Evanston Civic Center, 2100 N. Ridge Road in Evanston and Seat Geek Stadium, 7000 S. Harlem Ave. in Bridgeview. Seniors at these locations will not need appointments, as these walk-in centers are specifically designed to meet their needs. By offering this targeted option, the office is prioritizing seniors without impacting customers at DMVs who have made appointments. Seniors still have the option to make a standard appointment at these and other locations.

Increasing the number of available appointments. Expanding scheduling availability will increase the number of in-car/road test appointments at Chicagoland DMVs by over 40%, or nearly 1,300 more per day.

Adding additional call center features to serve seniors aged 70 and older who require a road exam. These callers will be routed directly to operators who will provide on-the-spot information, schedule appointments or assist with online renewals. Seniors may call 800-2528980.

Adding new features to the appointment website. Customers can now filter DMVs by ZIP code, highlighting appointment openings at DMVs closest to them.

Students at ChiArts participate in a rigorous program, including five hours of academics, three hours of arts education, and one to four hours of practice or rehearsal per day.

Trailblazing Entrepreneur Lorri Dotson Invests in Dream Exchange, the First MinorityOwned and Governed Stock Exchange

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- Dream Exchange is pleased to announce Lorri S. Dotson, a visionary leader and trailblazing entrepreneur who has decided to join a growing group of esteemed investors in the first minority-owned and governed stock exchange. Dotson’s journey began in Chicago, Illinois, where she grew up witnessing her parents’ entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. Her parents’ entrepreneurial legacy greatly influenced her path, as they owned multiple businesses, including one of the first black-owned oil and gas service stations in the 1970s.

Driven by her passion for innovation and community empowerment, Dotson recognized the transformative potential of Dream Exchange. As a minority-owned stock exchange, Dream Exchange aims to provide equal access and opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs and investors. Dotson’s investment showcases her commitment to supporting minority-owned businesses and creating an ecosystem within the financial industry.

“I invested in Dream Exchange because I believe in the power of innovation and the potential for positive change in the financial industry. This platform is

not only disrupting traditional norms but also creating opportunities for underrepresented groups to access capital markets. By supporting Dream Exchange, I am investing in a future that embraces equal opportunity for all.” - Lorri Dotson

“The arrival of our investors is not merely a financial transaction; it is a testament to the strength of our vision and the promise of our organization. Their partnership symbolizes a shared commitment to growth, innovation, and long-term success. We are truly fortunate to have them by our side as we embark on this extraordinary journey.” - said Founder and CEO Joe Cecala

“We welcome the recent round of investors with open arms, let us not forget the profound impact their support will have on our collective journey. Their belief in our mission is a testament to the potential we hold and the transformative power of our vision. Together, we will forge new paths, break barriers, and create a future that surpasses all expectations.” - said Managing Member, Dwain Kyles

The Dream Exchange is preparing its application and operations to become registered as the first minoritygoverned and owned company to operate a stock exchange in the history of the United States. In addition, Dream Exchange is championing the creation of a new type of stock exchange called a venture exchange, to list and trade smaller, early-stage company stock.

Toyota Returns with Follow-up to its ‘Need a Nudge’ Program

PLANO, Texas – After honoring an inspiring group of deserving, noteworthy local grassroots organizations from across the U.S. last year with $10,000 grants in the first-ever Toyota “Need a Nudge” program, the carmaker returns for 2023 with an enticing follow-up campaign conceived to benefit America’s 106 Historically Black Colleges and Universities, intent upon complementing the total $300,000 in micro-grants recipients were awarded in 2022.

The new campaign is aptly titled “After the Nudge,” and like its predecessor, it stands as a nod to the ways in which small gestures to some, can mean the world to someone who needs it most, and why paying it forward is a concept that should be continued and expanded upon—with the added component of individuals empowered to help drive that impact. A companion national podcast series, co-hosted by noted, awardwinning Black journalist Soledad O’Brien and former NBA athlete J.R. Smith will also nationally debut early this month documenting in an engaging format how Toyota “nudged” grassroots community organizations with the micro-grants, and how site visitors now have a unique opportunity to join in Toyota’s efforts to support HBCU’s across the higher education ecosystem.

While Toyota last year focused on the founders of community-based organizations, achieving a resounding program success by garnering an impressive 4.5 million votes and underscoring the far-reaching engagement and enthusiasm of the community, this year the brand will seek to benefit HBCUs with the introduction of the “Nudge Button,” an online tab that when activated prompts the company to contribute one dollar to America’s Black colleges. Even better, the sky’s the limit in fueling this emotional connection as the button, accessible at AftertheNudge. com, can be depressed as often as ten times per day, per individual, toward Toyota’s goal of donating $300,000

to these storied institutions in 2023.

Toyota has proudly extended the role of doing the nudging itself this year, instead pulling in consumers to encourage them to do even more at the push of the Nudge button. And, limiting participation to ten presses per day ensures that the online interaction is with real people, rather than a program or virus.

“At Toyota, our vision and invitation is for the allies, friends, and alumni of HBCUs to join us in helping these colleges and universities continue to make a difference as they serve their students. This new national initiative will enable us to uplift and prepare students for impactful careers as the workforce of the future,” said Mike Tripp, VP of Marketing and Communications, Toyota Motor North America. “We are gratified to be able to play a role in supporting HBCUs with this innovative program, empowering them to continue the legacy work they’re known for.”

“Grassroots community organizations do incredible work day in and day out. What an honor to have the chance to elevate their inspiring stories,” states Soledad O’Brien, one of America’s most recognized and accomplished broadcast journalists. “I’m thrilled to partner with Pod Digital Media and Toyota as we celebrate these true heroes.”

“As an HBCUer myself, it’s a win-win for me to be able to align with Toyota, as well as to be paired with a media legend like Soledad O’Brien, all to amplify the hard work, unique culture and success that our HBCUs are known for,” says co-host J.R. Smith. “I encourage people to tune-in regularly to the ‘After the Nudge’ podcast, as well as to interact daily with the Nudge button—and then tell someone about it, as it empowers us all to be engaged and to make a positive difference.”

“Pod Digital Media is thrilled to serve as Toyota’s exclusive media and podcast production partner, collaborating to craft this dynamic and influential

custom podcast series,” says Gary Coichy, Pod Digital Media founder & CEO.

At the campaign’s conclusion, the final “After the Nudge” donations from Toyota will be made to the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). In collaboration with NAFEO, TMCF and UNCF, the donations will be dispersed across HBCUs large and small, and spanning all degrees of renown.

Visitors are actively encouraged to participate by visiting Toyota’s AftertheNudge.com website often, press the “Need A Nudge” button daily and then be sure to tune in to the inspiring “After the Nudge” podcast series for the latest program news, profiles, information and updates.

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 people in North America, who have contributed to the design, engineering and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 20 electrified options, with more in showrooms later this year.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Lorri Dotson, Founder and CEO of Founder and CEO of VIGCE LLC (dba VISION Group Cleaning). Dream Exchange

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 crystalembellished 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. Trinidadianborn model and influencer Sarah HamelSmith wore a groundbreaking creation by Cafaro, long gloves connected by a silkflowered 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,

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 Blackowned 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 Detroitbased 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

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, nonprofit 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. FritoLay 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 directstore-delivery model. Learn more about

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

Frito-Lay North America

PRNewsfoto/Tastemade

Hermene Hartman, Iconic Publisher, is Falling in Love With Success in Television

"N'DIGO

Studio" Premiered for its Fifth Season this past Saturday, September 30th

Hermene Hartman is falling in love again with television.

With two Emmy nominations under her belt, Hartman, the publisher, author, columnist, political pundit, social commentator, podcaster and television talk show host, is full of excitement about the upcoming fifth season of her television talk show, "N'DIGO Studio."

The show features exclusive interviews and conversations on contemporary culture. It premieres on NBC 5 Chicago (WMAQ-TV) on Sunday, September 30, 2023, at 1:00 A.M (CT), following the longtime award-winning hit comedy show, Saturday Night Live. The 30-minute talk show also airs on WYCC TV (Channel 25) Mondays at 8:00 PM. It is such a hit on WYCC that the station has placed it in rotation to air several times during the week.

Hartman, who launched N'DIGO Megapaper in 1989, made her name in publishing, becoming one of the few African American women to own a newspaper. She is determined to keep up with the changing face of new media platforms, yet true to the storytelling of the N'DIGO's mission, which is to tell stories, untold, mistold and that need to be retold, particularly about Black America.

Her professional life began as an academician. She was recruited by a new executive team at CBS while teaching at City Colleges. She was the producer and assistant community affairs director for WBBM-TV. She produced the public affairs show "Common Ground" that was hosted by the late award-winning journalist and anchor Warner Saunders. That show won two Emmy awards.

Hartman was also very active in the civil rights arena during her college years, moved by the times – when Black Power activism began to transform Chicago politics. She worked with Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., the leader of Chicago's Operation Breadbasket. At Operation Breadbasket, she was the Culture Coordinator for Black Expo, which was one of the largest expeditions of its time to promote Black-owned businesses, Black culture and entertainment. The exposition was an

original concept where she collaborated with top business and cultural leaders as well as entertainment producers/executives of the day.

After graduating from college, Hartman pursued a career in education. She started as an intern at City Colleges of Chicago. She was a professor teaching behavior science and rose to the rank as the first female vice chancellor of the City Colleges of Chicago in External Affairs. Her second career became full time in the media. She launched N'DIGO with the mission of telling the often-untold stories of Chicago's Black community. It was not an easy undertaking. But no obstacles stopped her. She partnered with Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune to advance NDIGO. However, in 2017, recognizing that print media had passed its glory years as advertisers pulled away, she reluctantly shifted into digital media.

It is a move she now embraces. In 2019, Hartman expanded N'DIGO Magapaper into television with N'DIGO Studio. Hartman conducts exclusive interviews with the newbies, noteables and newsy persons about contemporary topics.

This season, N'DIGO Studio expands.

"Our season usually consists of 12 programs, but this season we will add four programs for Black History Month, by popular demand. N'DIGO STUDIO has been nominated for two Emmys for the best talk show in the Midwest.

"I am promoting Black intelligentsia," said Hartman, highlighting a goal of the show. "That is what I am always looking for. I am trying to change the narrative, to promote Black Intelligentsia with real life people. Too often we view the game show, the comedian, the ignorant and the bitchy real life housewives, but we miss the reality of the actuality of what people are doing and saying. At N'DIGO Studio, we bring an "authentic" aspect to television."

She added, "The show is set in a "living room where genuine conversations take place. I am taking the viewer into my living room so that we can just sit and talk to a variety of people from politicos, to entertainers and authors with true storytelling about their lives and passions."

The excitement surrounding the fifth season is also spilling over to the production team. They appreciate the show's content and its

special guests.

"She has proven to me she's got what it takes, and she has proven to me that it is about Black greatness," said Erik Hammond, the CEO of Clear Vision Multimedia in the Chicago area, who has been filming, producing and directing the show since its inception. "It is the way she delivers her questions and about the guests that are showcased. It is so important to me to be capturing Black heritage. She has some of the most important people on the show to talk about history and current situations. You hear it firsthand, instead of hearing it watered down. You are hearing it from someone who has sometimes been a witness or participant, and that is very special." Hammond added, ''For us to be nominated for an Emmy two years in a row is a powerful statement. That is why every season I invest even more in my company because she deserves it. To be a part of five seasons, to be a person with her to start the

movement surrounding her vision, and to see it grow to this point, is awesome. She is so true to the game when it comes to African American forwardness. I have to say that because, after these years of working with her, I have seen it."

Her viewers and former guests feel the same way about Hartman and N'DIGO Studio.

"Hermene's show, without a doubt, is insightful and inspiring. It is greatly needed, especially for the times in which we are in," said Rev. Corey Brooks of New Beginnings Church in Chicago.

"She brings pedigree," said Perri Small, a noted Chicago radio talk show host, who was a guest on one of the shows that received the Emmy nomination. "She is passionate about journalism and delivers it from an era that lifts people up...an authenticity and passion that is inspired by God."

Father Michael Pfleger, a nationally renowned priest and social activist, who has been a guest on the show, agrees.

"Hermene brings substance to issues, and her voice is a gift to the community," Pfleger said. "We live in a kind of hardcopy day when everything is 30 and 60-second sound bites, and Hermene's show allows us to look beyond the headlines and examine what is behind the issues. She shines the light on things that mainstream media does not find important, especially issues in the Black community and challenges facing marginalized folks of Chicago. It is delivered in a way that only Hermene can deliver it, and we look forward to more of the same this season on N'DIGO Studio."

Hermene Hartman, Photo Provided by jerrythomaspr

Hermene Hartman, Photo Provided by jerrythomaspr

Eshe Ukweli Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Solomon Hayes Morehouse CollegeNNPA Fellow

Brielle Smith Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Jacob Bellevue Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Antonio

Tullos Alabama