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SKITTLES® SPOTLIGHTS LGBTQ+ STORIES REMINDING FANS THAT “THERE IS A STORY IN EVERY RAINBOW”

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2023 SKITTLES® Pride Packs highlight meaningful LGBTQ+ stories this June in collaboration with Audible, GLAAD and artists within the LGBTQ+ community.

NEWARK, N.J. /PRNewswire/ — As part of its ongoing mission to support and increase visibility for the LGBTQ+ community, the SKITTLES® brand is celebrating Pride 2023 by elevating LGBTQ+ stories through teaming up with Audible, actor and comedian Cameron Esposito’s QUEERY podcast, GLAAD, and the five talented artists who designed SKITTLES’ 2023 Pride packs. Starting today consumers can scan the QR code on any SKITTLES Pride pack, which will direct fans to a free collection of LGBTQ+ stories on Audible, upcoming special edition Pride episodes of Cameron Esposito’s QUEERY podcast and other meaningful stories of Pride.

SKITTLES® teams up with Audible, actor and comedian Cameron Esposito, GLAAD, and the five designers of SKITTLES’ 2023 Pride packs to support and increase visibility of the LGBTQ+ community by elevating LGBTQ+ stories. QR codes on each SKITTLES Pride pack will direct fans to a free collection of LGBTQ+ stories on Audible, special edition Pride episodes of Cameron Esposito’s QUEERY podcast, and other meaningful stories of Pride.

The SKITTLES Pride Audible collection, which features Audible Originals and excerpts from classic LGBTQ+ titles, is available to stream for free from now until July 31 and can be discovered through the QR code on pack or at SKITTLES.com/pride. The SKITTLES Pride collection was curated by multiple teams at Audible including Editorial, Marketing, and Content in collaboration with GLAAD. Categories of programming include Queer Fiction; Real People, Real Voices; and Audible Theater Originals. Audible’s June “5 Listens” was curated by the five LGBTQ+ artists who designed this year’s SKITTLES Pride packs: Zipeng Zhu, Symone Salib, Mady G, Bianca Xunise, and Shanée Benjamin. Free titles in the collection include Audible Originals like Sorry Charlie Miller and The Inheritance, plus excerpts from important LGBTQ+ literature such as Giovanni’s Room and Girl Woman Other.

To further elevate voices and stories in the community, SKITTLES is partnering with actor and comedian Cameron Esposito to develop special Pride edition episodes of her QUEERY podcast, highlighting the individual stories of the artists who designed the 2023 SKITTLES Pride Packs, and other LGBTQ+ storytellers. Fans can explore the episodes – which roll out starting in early June – and submit their own stories of Pride for a chance to be featured in a podcast episode by visiting SKITTLES.com/pride.

“The SKITTLES brand is proud to continue our four-year partnership with GLAAD and introduce new collaborations this year with Audible and Cameron Esposito, to help uplift and provide visibility to the LGBTQ+ community,” said Gabrielle Wesley, Chief Marketing Officer, Mars Wrigley North America. “The SKITTLES brand is honored to have the opportunity to help amplify voices from the LGBTQ+ community through the power of storytelling, which will help to increase support, generate inclusion, and build community.”

“We’re on a mission to ignite the world’s imagination by bringing stories, ideas and characters to life,” said James Finn, Head of Global Brand and Content Marketing, Audible. “Teaming up with SKITTLES for Pride 2023 epitomizes our focus and passion to elevate LGBTQIA+ voices that deserve to be heard.”

Earlier this month, SKITTLES unveiled five unique, colorful Pride packs designed by artists within the LGBTQ+ community. For every SKITTLES Pride pack purchased, SKITTLES will donate $1 (up to $100,000) to support GLAAD’s ongoing efforts to uplift and support the LGBTQ+ community. Beyond Pride month, SKITTLES supports GLAAD throughout the year with a focus on moments that shine a spotlight on visibility, including the annual GLAAD Media Awards and Spirit Day.

“The ongoing support and partnership we receive from SKITTLES helps us advance our critical mission to further dialogue that leads to cultural change,” said Melissa Harris, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships at GLAAD. “SKITTLES’ mission this year to spotlight LGBTQ+ stories is a profound initiative that can maximize awareness, support and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community while advancing diversity and inclusion.”

The limited-edition artist-designed SKITTLES Pride packs are available to purchase in 4oz Share Size Packs and 15.6oz Stand Up Pouches at select retailers nationwide from now through mid-July.

For more information about SKITTLES Pride initiatives, including the various partnerships and Pride packs artists, visit Skittles.com/PRIDE or follow SKITTLES on FacebookTwitterInstagram, and TikTok

ABOUT MARS, INCORPORATED 
Mars, Incorporated is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a global, family-owned business, Mars is transforming, innovating, and evolving to make a positive impact on the world. 

Across our diverse and expanding portfolio of quality confectionery, food, and pet care products and services, we employ 140,000+ dedicated Associates. With almost $45 billion in annual sales, we produce some of the world’s best-loved brands including Ben’s Original™, CESAR®, Cocoavia®, DOVE®, EXTRA®, KIND®, M&M’s®, SNICKERS®, PEDIGREE®, ROYAL CANIN®, and WHISKAS®. We are creating a better world for pets through our global network of pet hospitals and diagnostic services – including AniCura, BANFIELD™, BLUEPEARL™, Linnaeus and VCA™ – using cutting edge technology to develop breakthrough programs in genetic health screening and DNA testing. 

For more information about Mars, please visit www.mars.com. Join us on FacebookTwitterInstagramLinkedIn and YouTube

ABOUT GLAAD

GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love. For more information, please visit www.glaad.org or connect with GLAAD on Facebook and Twitter.

ABOUT AUDIBLE

Audible, Inc., an Amazon.com, Inc. subsidiary (NASDAQ:AMZN), is the leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, offering global audiences a powerful way to enhance and enrich their lives through extraordinary content. Audible’s catalog includes more than 800,000 audio titles, including Audible Originals as well as audiobooks and podcasts from leading studios, print, audio and magazine publishers and world-renowned entertainers.

ABOUT CAMERON ESPOSITO/QUEERY

Cameron Esposito is an award-winning standup comic, actor, writer, bestselling author and podcast host. In addition to her work as a nationally touring headliner, Cameron has appeared in big budget films and beloved indies, on HBO, Hulu, NBC, CBS, Cartoon Network and more, including most recently on ABC’s A Million Little Things and The Rookie: Feds, Amazon’s With Love, and E!’s If We’re Being Honest With Laverne Cox. She also hosts her own podcasts, QUEERY – a series of hour-long conversations with some staffs of the brightest luminaries in the LGBTQ+ family – and Survive or Die Trying – a SONY comedy podcast about surviving life’s most, and least, serious situations. 

SOURCE Mars, Incorporated

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Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Dual Language Programs in Arizona Schools

Judge Cooper dismissed Arizona’s school chief’s lawsuit challenging dual language programs for non-English speakers, affirming State Board of Education’s authority in approving language models. This reinforces adherence to approved educational standards.

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In a recent legal development that has garnered attention, a judge has dismissed a lawsuit brought forward by Arizona’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Horne, challenging dual language programs used in certain school districts to educate non-English speaking students. The dispute stemmed from the argument that these programs, which split a student’s day between English and another language, violated a 2000 voter-approved law mandating English-only instruction.

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Katherine Cooper’s ruling on Tuesday was a significant turning point in this legal battle. She determined that Horne lacked the legal authority and standing to initiate the lawsuit and failed to present valid legal claims against Governor Katie Hobbs, Attorney General Kris Mayes, and the 10 school districts involved.

Judge Cooper’s decision highlighted the state Board of Education’s role in approving language immersion models, emphasizing that the school districts in question were following approved models. She clarified that the responsibility for developing and sanctioning immersion models lies with the State Board, not individual districts. As per her ruling, all public and charter schools must adhere to models endorsed by the State Board.

This ruling not only resolves the immediate legal dispute but also underscores the importance of adhering to established educational guidelines and processes. It reaffirms the regulatory role of the State Board of Education in approving language instruction models, providing clarity on the standards that schools must follow.

The outcome of this lawsuit marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding language education in Arizona. It serves as a reminder of the legal framework that governs educational practices and the significance of compliance with state-approved guidelines. Ultimately, this decision underscores the need for a clear, standardized approach to language education that aligns with the broader educational objectives of the state.

https://apnews.com/article/arizona-dual-language-program-lawsuit-schools-c850b20bddb673219ec316f0c646c316

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/

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The Controversy Surrounding Guaranteed-Basic-Income in Arizona: A Republican Stance

Arizona Republicans unite against guaranteed-basic-income programs, citing concerns over socialism and unearned payments.

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Arizona Republican lawmakers have taken a stand against the concept of guaranteed-basic-income programs with the recent passing of House Bill 2375. Despite the state grappling with high rates of homelessness, the Republican majority in the Arizona House of Representatives voted in unison to prohibit such programs. This decision has sparked a debate on the effectiveness and implications of such initiatives in addressing poverty and wealth disparity.

The bill’s sponsor, GOP Rep. Lupe Diaz, equated guaranteed-basic-income programs to socialism, labeling the payments as “unearned.” This perspective aligns with the broader Republican stance on welfare policies and government assistance. The legislation aims to block any scheme that provides individuals with regular cash payments without a prerequisite of work or training.

Basic-income programs have gained momentum nationwide as a potential solution to bridge the wealth gap and alleviate poverty. These initiatives offer financial support to specific demographics, often those living in poverty or near the poverty line, without imposing conditions on how the funds should be utilized. They stand in contrast to universal-basic-income programs, which distribute funds universally regardless of income levels.

The contentious nature of this bill underscores a fundamental ideological divide regarding social welfare and economic policies. While proponents view guaranteed-basic-income as a progressive step towards addressing systemic inequalities, opponents like the Arizona Republican lawmakers raise concerns about dependency, misuse of funds, and the encroachment of socialist ideologies.

As the bill progresses to the Arizona Senate, where Republicans hold a slight majority, the fate of guaranteed-basic-income programs in the state hangs in the balance. The outcome of this legislative battle will not only impact Arizona but may reverberate across the nation, shaping the discourse on poverty alleviation and social welfare policies.

The debate around guaranteed-basic-income programs reflects the broader societal conversation on economic justice and the role of the government in supporting vulnerable populations. While opinions may differ on the efficacy of such initiatives, it is imperative to critically assess their potential benefits and drawbacks in the pursuit of a more equitable society.

Source: Business Insider

https://www.businessinsider.com/arizona-gop-ban-guaranteed-basic-income-programs-homelessness-poverty-2024-2

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Crisis in the Texas Panhandle: Battling the Devastating Wildfires

“Wildfires ravage Texas Panhandle, prompting evacuations, power outages, and a nuclear facility shutdown. Community resilience shines amid the chaos.”

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A cluster of wildfires scorched the Texas Panhandle on Wednesday, including a blaze that grew into one of the largest in state history, as flames moved with alarming speed and blackened the landscape across a vast stretch of small towns and cattle ranches. (Feb 28) (AP video by Julio Cortez and Ty O’Neil) (AP production by Javier Arciga)

A series of wildfires wreaked havoc across the Texas Panhandle early Wednesday, unleashing chaos and destruction in their wake. The Smokehouse Creek Fire, now the second-largest wildfire in Texas’s history, has left a trail of evacuations, power outages, and a temporary shutdown of a nuclear weapons facility.

Governor Greg Abbott’s declaration of disaster for 60 counties underscores the severity of the situation. The cause of these ferocious blazes remains a mystery, as they rage through sparsely populated counties characterized by vast plains, cattle ranches, and oil rigs.

In the midst of this turmoil, residents like Adrianna Hill from Borger share harrowing tales of survival. Hill’s account of the fire encircling her town paints a vivid picture of the fear and uncertainty that gripped the community. With roads closed and flames closing in, the resilience of individuals like Hill and the protective force of nature itself offer a glimmer of hope in the face of adversity.

As firefighters battle against the infernos, the weather forecast brings a ray of optimism with cooler temperatures, reduced wind, and the possibility of rain on the horizon. Yet, the immediate reality remains dire in many areas, emphasizing the urgent need for support and solidarity in the ongoing fight against these catastrophic wildfires.

In times of crisis, it is in the unity of communities, the courage of individuals, and the dedication of emergency responders that resilience shines brightest. Let us stand together in support of those affected by this disaster, offering our thoughts, prayers, and assistance as they confront this formidable challenge in the Texas Panhandle.

Source: Associated Press

https://apnews.com/article/texas-panhandle-fire-evacuations-2cad37f14581bac74a3691969aaaf956

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