We are excited to announce that Z will be exhibiting some of her original work again at this year's Artisan's Emporium. This amazing experience offers visitors the opportunity to chat with local artists and purchase one-of-a-kind designs at a variety of price points. In addition to these handmade treasures, guests can get photos with Santa,… Continue reading Join Z at the Artisan’s Emporium, December 1, 2018
Author: justzplanning
on the side of good
One of Z's many responsibilities as a Global Messenger for the Special Olympics is serving as an advocate for the disabled community. Z uses her voice and experiences to share her story with politicians and law-makers, seeking change and inspiring support for individuals with disabilities and their families. While many passionate groups may align with… Continue reading on the side of good
Celebrating 50 Years of Special Olympics
Z has been very active this spring in her role as a Global Messenger for the Special Olympics. The activities and speaking events in which she usually engages have heightened due to the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics. Though this achievement is being celebrated globally, many of the key events will be centralized here in… Continue reading Celebrating 50 Years of Special Olympics
peas in a pod
It is impossible to engage with Z without recognizing the important role her mother (Simyra) has played in her growth and her advocacy. From early education and advocating for her daughter's rights, to homeschooling, to moving out of the city, and playing personal chauffeur for all of Z's many activities, Simyra has done everything possible… Continue reading peas in a pod
Z tries leather work
Z is always up for trying something new and exploring her creativity. She is a natural when it comes to many mediums and leather work was no different! In February 2018, Z tried this new method for the first time. In just three hours, she designed and crafted this unique clutch.
Z at the zoo
Zinyra expressed an early interest in nature and animals. As any devoted parent would, her mother made sure to provide every opportunity to learn about these topics through books and by visiting the zoo. In fact, it was at Brookfield Zoo that Z spoke her first word ("cat"), while standing in front of a tiger… Continue reading Z at the zoo
word bubbles
You know how characters in cartoons and comics will often be depicted with "word bubbles" above their heads to indicate speech or thoughts? Before Zinyra was verbal, she was thinking thoughts and feeling emotions just like anyone else--but she wasn't able to voice them. Imagine how frustrating that must be for a person. When Z… Continue reading word bubbles
breaking ground for Special Olympics
On March 2, 2018, Z joined several leaders from the Special Olympics and the City of Chicago to break ground on the Eternal Flame of Hope, a permanent monument highlighting 50 years of Special Olympics at the birthplace of events: Soldier Field.