Dress for Success® Expands Annual Your Hour, Her Power® Campaign with “31 Days of Women in Power” to Highlight the Importance of Women Leaders

March 1, 2021

Stories of 31 groundbreaking women leaders from diverse industries will be shared throughout March in honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day

NEW YORK, March 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Dress for Success, the only global nonprofit employment resource for women, today announced the expansion of its annual Your Hour, Her Power global campaign with “31 Days of Women in Power.” In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, Dress for Success will share the stories of 31 inspiring women in leadership positions who are making an impact in their industries and beyond.

Launching in partnership with O, The Oprah Magazine, Your Hour, Her Power is inspired by the belief that when a woman has access to opportunities that can change her life for the better, she becomes powerful beyond measure. By donating the equivalent of one hour of pay, individuals can help women gain access to Dress for Success’ programs, services, and tools. Given the impact of COVID-19 on women’s careers and representation in the workforce, access to employment tools and resources has never been more critical.

“Our clients were vulnerable to economic disparities spurred by hardship and gender-based biases and norms prior to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success. “Those disparities have been exacerbated over the past year as our women face increased financial, food, and housing insecurity due to job loss. We want every woman who has been impacted by this crisis to know that Dress for Success has a network, programs, and resources available to support them as they navigate these uncertain times.”

Women leaders, mentors, and sponsors play a significant role in empowering women as they advance in their careers. That is why Dress for Success is introducing “31 Days of Women in Power.” The campaign extension, sponsored by Arm & Hammer, Chloe Wine Collection, and Sono Bello, will honor 31 groundbreaking women executives representing diverse industries throughout March.

“Women play a pivotal role in driving business and economic gains, as well as social and cultural change, and we must continue to find ways to elevate their voices and recognize them for their contributions,” continued Gordon. “We are excited to celebrate these phenomenal women and show our clients what is possible when women are empowered and have access to tools and opportunities that position them for success.”

2021 Your Hour, Her Power honorees to be profiled on the campaign’s microsite — www.yourhourherpower.org — include:

Andi Owen President & CEO, Herman Miller	Gail Grimmett Chief Experience Officer, Wheels Up	Jenny Xu Founder & CEO, Talofa Games	Lizanne Kindler CEO, Talbots	Ramona Hood President & CEO, FedEx Custom Critical

Cheryl Abel-Hodges CEO, Calvin Klein	Helen Aboah CEO, Urban Zen	Jill Evanko President & CEO, Chart Industries	Margaret Keane CEO, Synchrony	Renee Gittins Executive Director, International Game Developers Association

Christina Seelye Founder & CEO, Maximum Games	Hillary Scott Recording Artist, Lady A	Kate Burke COO, AllianceBernstein	Mary Dillon CEO, Ulta Beauty	Rima Qureshi EVP & Chief Strategy Officer, Verizon

Christy Pambianchi EVP & Chief Human Resources Officer, Verizon	Jamie Jones Miller National President, Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority	Kathy Warden Chairman, CEO & President, Northrop Grumman	Mindy Grossman Presdident & CEO, WW International, Inc.	Stephanie Chung Chief Growth Officer, Wheels Up

Corinne Ripoche CEO, Adecco Americas & Pontoon, Adecco Group	Janessa Cox-Irvin Global Head of Diversity & Inclusion AllianceBernstein	Leah Hoyer VP of Creative, Wizards of the Coast	Niki Leondakis CEO, CorePower Yoga	Sue Y. Nabi CEO, COTY

Dale Bornstein CEO, M Booth	Jasmin Allen SVP, Hennessy U.S., LVMH Möet Hennessy Louis Vuitton	Linda Findley Kozlowski President & CEO, Blue Apron	Penny Pennington Managing Partner, Edward Jones	Tami Erwin EVP & Group CEO, Verizon Business

Emilie Rubinfeld Global President, Carolina Herrera

Individuals wishing to support Dress for Success this Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day with a donation of the equivalent of one hour of their pay may visit the campaign’s microsite at www.yourhourherpower.org. Additionally, companies interested in partnering with Dress for Success throughout March may contact [email protected].

About Dress for Success
Dress for Success is an international nonprofit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and development tools to help them thrive in work and life. Since starting operations in 1997, Dress for Success has expanded to nearly 150 cities in 25 countries. To date, the organization has helped more than 1.2 million women work towards financial independence. Visit www.dressforsuccess.org to learn more.

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SOURCE Dress for Success

Blue Shield of California Donates $40 Million to its Foundation

March 1, 2021

OAKLAND, Calif., March 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Blue Shield of California has made a $40-million contribution to Blue Shield of California Foundation to support its efforts to end domestic violence and to make California the healthiest state. The nonprofit health plan has contributed more than $150 million to its foundation over the past four years.

Blue Shield of California Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization that is funded entirely by contributions from Blue Shield of California. Blue Shield is a tax paying, nonprofit health plan that serves more than 4 million people in the Golden State with a mission to help all Californians have access to high-quality health care at an affordable price. Blue Shield caps its net income at 2% and has a commitment to return money it earns above that target to the community and its members.

“We are pleased to support, and continue to appreciate, the great work by Blue Shield of California Foundation,” said Paul Markovich, president and CEO of Blue Shield of California. “The foundation has an incredibly positive impact through its programs and partnerships with community-based groups across the state.”

Said Debbie Chang, president and CEO of Blue Shield of California Foundation: “We are grateful for the support of Blue Shield of California, which enables us to make progress toward our bold goals of making California the healthiest state and ending domestic violence. By working closely with our grantees, partners and the communities most affected by health inequity and domestic violence, we strive to make impact at the system level, in order to create lasting and sustainable change for more people. In addition, we can move swiftly in times of great need, such as to support the communities hardest hit by the pandemic.”

Last year, the foundation awarded 113 grants totaling $26.5 million to improve lives, including:

Grants totaling $12 million to support Californians hardest hit by the pandemic. The Foundation’s seed funding helped launch the statewide Immigrant Resilience Fund to provide direct relief to undocumented immigrants that were excluded from federal relief efforts. The Foundation also joined 12 other funders to launch Together Toward Health, a statewide initiative to support response, outreach and job opportunities in the communities most affected by COVID-19. Additional grants included emergency support to those facing domestic violence during the pandemic.
Continued leadership and investment in domestic violence prevention. This includes funding California’s Domestic Violence Housing First program, an innovative model that uses flexible cash assistance to prevent homelessness for domestic violence survivors. The Foundation also is a founding donor of All In For Kids, a fund to prevent childhood trauma and end domestic violence in the Bay Area. Additional grants focus on engaging girls and women of color in healing and safety, and strengthening a network of men and boys of color working to end gender-based violence.
Innovations to improve the financial security of Californians, particularly people of color and low-income workers. Given the close connection between economic position and health and well-being, the Foundation invested in efforts to improve economic conditions for childcare workers, student-parents at community colleges and domestic violence survivors. The Foundation also supported policy solutions that increase income and give time for health such as expanding paid family leave and the earned income tax credit.

Here is a breakdown of how foundation grants were made across the state in 2020:

Sacramento Valley	3	$381,425
North	1	$75,000
SF/Bay Area	13	$1,916,800
Central	5	$725,000
Los Angeles	12	$1,706,000
South	4	$700,000
Statewide	58	$19,266,348
National	17	$ 1,735,000

About Blue Shield of California Foundation
Blue Shield of California Foundation supports lasting and equitable solutions to make California the healthiest state and end domestic violence. When we work together to remove the barriers to health and well-being, especially for Californians most affected, we can create a more just and equitable future. For more information, visit: www.blueshieldcafoundation.org and please join us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook

About Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California strives to create a health care system worthy of our family and friends that is sustainably affordable. We are a tax paying, not for profit, independent member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association with over 4 million members, 6,800 employees and more than $21 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 Oakland-based Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare health care service plans in California..

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.
Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

CONTACT:	Mark Seelig
	Blue Shield of California
	510-607-2359
	[email protected]

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SOURCE Blue Shield of California

Denver Museum of Nature & Science to Host Stonehenge Exhibition Featuring 400 Original Artifacts and Breakthrough Science

March 1, 2021

DENVER, March 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — “Stonehenge” the exhibition will open at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science on Friday, March 12, featuring 400 artifacts and the breakthrough science behind some of the latest discoveries about this prehistoric monument.

Designated as a World Heritage Site and described as inspiring, magical and sacred, Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England, is one of the most famous landmarks in the United Kingdom. The monument once consisted of rings and horseshoes of standing stones, some topped by horizontal “lintels.” The largest stones are around 23 feet high, nine feet wide and weigh over 50,000 pounds. Scientific analysis has revealed that some of the stones were transported an incredible distance from the Preseli Mountains in Wales, over 150 miles away, with no modern means of transportation.

“Much mystery and intrigue surrounds Stonehenge,” Erin Baxter, Denver Museum of Nature & Science curator of anthropology said. “This world-class exhibition allows guests to explore and experience all of those questions and encounter the very latest in scientific research.”

Guests will explore the ancient landscape; how people of the area lived; how the monument was constructed and changed through time; and how modern science continues to refine the story.

“We’re fortunate to bring this world-class exhibition to Denver and share its wonder with the Colorado community and beyond,” George Sparks, Denver Museum of Nature & Science president & CEO said. “What is truly remarkable is the depth of knowledge we now have regarding what the silent and massive stones tell us. We can’t wait to share this fantastic journey through ancient mysteries and modern discoveries with our guests.”

Scholars and visitors alike have puzzled over this unique prehistoric monument for centuries. Thanks to the latest scientific research, archaeologists believe Stonehenge was constructed from 3000 BCE to 2000 BCE.

The exhibition is curated by Mike Parker Pearson, professor of British Later Prehistory at the Institute of Archaeology, University College London.

This exhibition is produced by MuseumsPartner in Austria in collaboration with English Heritage.

For more information, photos and videos, visit the online press kit.

About the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is the Rocky Mountain Region’s leading resource for informal science education.

CONTACT
Maura O’Neal
303.370.6407 • [email protected]

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SOURCE Denver Museum of Nature & Science

My College Laptop Selects Community Colleges With The Best Laptop Loaner Programs

March 1, 2021

LEHI, Utah, March 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — My College Laptop, an education resource website that advocates for technology immersion in colleges, believes technology has been unfairly vilified as the driver of income inequality. The Pew Research Center recently highlighted the technology gap, particularly access to technology by low-income Americans, as a key driver of income inequality.

Studies by K-12 education researchers at Michigan State University demonstrate positive student outcomes of 1:1 laptop programs, teacher training programs and technology immersion programs.

“With positive student outcomes in K-12 across all cohorts and income levels, it’s exciting to see robust college laptop programs thriving in community colleges. If we assume that K-12 institutions are leading indicators, community colleges that address the tech gap will ultimately improve student outcomes”, said Terrence Thomas, Managing Director of My College Laptop.

My College Laptop, has compiled a list of innovative community colleges that are aggressively addressing the technology gap for their students. The community colleges listed below are not ranked in a traditional sense. Instead, we wanted to positively highlight the resourcefulness and determination of community colleges in addressing the technology gap by offering laptops to students. “

The full list with a description of each individual laptop program can be viewed at My College Laptop.

Houston Community College – Houston, TX
Clovis Community College – Fresno, CA; Clovis, CA
Shoreline Community College– Shoreline, WA
Mt. San Antonio College – Walnut, CA
Western Iowa Tech Community College – Sioux City, IA
Montgomery College – Rockville, MD, Takoma Park, MD, Germantown, MD
Portland Community College – Portland, OR
Los Angeles Community College District – Los Angeles, CA
Everett Community College – Everett, WA
Harrisburg Area Community College– Harrisburg, PA

About My College Laptop

For over 10 years, My College Laptop, a division of PMA Media Group, has connected over 500,000 students with colleges that provide supportive technology programs to students. In 2020, My College Laptop partnered with Laptops 4 Learning, a nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization, to provide over 300 laptops to deserving low-income college students. For additional information and a more complete list of traditional, for-profit, and not-for-profit colleges offering technology programs visit My College Laptop.

Media Contact
Terrence Thomas
Managing Director, My College Laptop
480-372-4045 (w)
425-985-7076 (c)

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SOURCE PMA Media Group

National Kidney Foundation Recognizes National Kidney Month by Focusing on Diabetes as a leading Risk Factor for Kidney Disease

March 1, 2021

March is National Kidney Month. Award-winning actress, Debbie Allen joined the National Kidney Foundation’s, “Are You the 33%?” campaign as the type 2 diabetes Campaign Celebrity Spokesperson to help promote awareness of diabetes as a leading cause for developing chronic kidney disease. Allen has a family history of diabetes and was recently diagnosed with pre-diabetes. Find out if you're the 1 in 3 adults at risk for developing kidney disease with a one minute quiz, MinuteForYourKidneys.org.

NEW YORK, March 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In honor of National Kidney Month which starts today, the National Kidney Foundation’s (NKF) national public awareness campaign, “Are You the 33%?” enters a new phase focusing on the connection between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and kidney disease, also known as chronic kidney disease (CKD). NKF urges everyone to find out if they’re the 1 in 3 at risk for developing kidney disease by taking a one-minute quiz at MinuteForYourKidneys.org.

Diabetes is a leading risk factor for developing kidney disease. Over time, having high blood sugar from diabetes can cause damage inside your kidneys. But it doesn’t have to end up this way; because with careful control of glucose (sugar) levels, there is evidence that you can prevent kidney disease in people with diabetes.

Award-winning actress, Debbie Allen joined the campaign as the T2D Campaign Celebrity Spokesperson in February, Black History Month, to help promote awareness of diabetes as a leading cause for developing chronic kidney disease. Allen has a family history of diabetes and was recently diagnosed with pre-diabetes. On March 11^th, World Kidney Day, people with T2D will have a unique opportunity to attend a virtual fireside chat to hear Debbie Allen’s personal story first-hand. Allen will be joined by NKF’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Joseph Vassalotti and a patient advocate with T2D and chronic kidney disease. Participants will have the opportunity to ask the speakers their own questions via a chat function. See registration details. Note this event is not open to media.

“Millions of adults in the U.S. are walking around with kidney disease and don’t even know it. And if you have type 2 diabetes you are at increased risk for developing kidney disease,” said Kevin Longino, CEO of National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant patient. “Having kidney disease also puts you at greater risk of developing life-threatening complications from COVID-19, so it’s really important that people go to our one minute quiz and find out about their kidney health.”

People of certain racial and ethnic groups are more likely to develop kidney disease than others. Blacks or African Americans are 13 percent of the U.S. population, but represent 35 percent of those with kidney failure. Hispanics or Latinos are 1.3 times as likely as non-Hispanics/Latinos to develop kidney failure. A leading cause of kidney disease is diabetes which is more prevalent in these communities. Everyone needs to know about kidney disease, but especially if you have any one of these additional risk factors: high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and family history of kidney disease.

“With 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. at risk for developing kidney disease, we must urgently transform understanding risk into taking actions to protect kidney health,” said Joseph Vassalotti, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at the NKF. “We want to help millions of Americans who have type 2 diabetes – those at highest risk for developing kidney disease – by encouraging them to talk to their doctors to learn if testing and other treatments are right for them.”

The “Are You the 33%?” campaign urges T2D patients and everyone with a risk factor to learn more by taking a simple, one-minute online quiz at MinuteForYourKidneys.org. The campaign microsite is available in both English and Spanish at MinuteForYourKidneys.org. Patients should also ask their doctors about two simple tests to diagnose kidney disease: a specific urine test, called uACR, and a calculated blood test, called eGFR.

In addition, Healthy.io, the creator of smartphone urinalysis, is partnering with the NKF to offer its home urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) test kit, free of charge, to people with type 2 diabetes who are at increased risk for developing kidney disease. Take the one-minute quiz at MinuteForYourKidneys.org.

Join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #MinuteForYourKidneys.

About Kidney Disease
In the United States, 37 million adults are estimated to have kidney disease, also known as chronic kidney disease—and approximately 90 percent don’t know they have it. 1 in 3 American adults are at risk for chronic kidney disease. Risk factors for kidney disease include: diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and family history. People of African American, Hispanic, American Indian, Asian, or Pacific Islander descent are at increased risk for developing the disease. African Americans are almost 4 times more likely than White Americans to have kidney failure. Hispanics are 1.3 times more likely than non-Hispanics to have kidney failure.

About National Kidney Foundation
The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is the largest, most comprehensive, and longstanding patient-centric organization dedicated to the awareness, prevention, and treatment of kidney disease in the U.S. For more information about NKF, visit www.kidney.org.

Facebook.com
Twitter:@NKF
www.kidney.org

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SOURCE National Kidney Foundation

Sneaker Culture Merges into the Fast Lane

February 26, 2021

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — What happens when sneakerheads get ahold of a luxury sport sedan? RTFKT creative collective and Lexus teamed up to find out.

To celebrate the launch of the 2021 Lexus IS, RTFKT reveals its one-of-one shoe featuring design elements inspired by the IS 350 F Sport Dynamic Handling Package. From its athletic stance and slimmer headlights to its carbon fiber spoiler and bold color schemes, the IS drove the creative team to design RTFKT’s first pair of footwear inspired by and partly constructed from vehicle materials.

“We wanted to make sure when the audience looks at the sneaker they instantly know it is the IS,” said Chris Le, creative director and co-founder of RTFKT. “All the intricate design elements come together, and at a first glance it’s a neckbreaker,” added Steven Zaptio, CEO and co-founder of RTFKT.

The RTFKT team first selected a base with a sole closely resembling a tire for their custom silhouette. Features on the front are shaped like the vehicle’s signature spindle grille, with 3D printed material imitating the carbon fiber spoiler of the car. The sides of the sneaker showcase Black NuLuxe with light gray stitching from the seats, with a middle silver stripe inspired by the details of the headlights. The team added an F SPORT branded tag on the side and a Lexus badge covering the top Velcro strap. Lastly, they selected a vibrant blue hue for the sneaker that most closely resembles Grecian Water, a new color for Lexus in 2021.

RTFKT and entertainment media company Complex documented the sneaker creation process in a three-part video series, “Rubber & Sole,” now live on Complex.com. In first episode the team is challenged to create a bespoke shoe inspired by the 2021 Lexus IS. Zaptio and Le take notes, from its newly designed spindle grill down to its NuLuxe interior, using the vehicle as their muse. The second video shows the ideation of the sneaker, from sketching designs to prototyping and materials sourcing. The third and final episode – debuting today – showcases the final details of the sneaker and explains how it is derived from the IS.

This partnership is part of the “All In” campaign for the new 2021 Lexus IS, where the automaker celebrates those who fully embrace their passions, while showcasing its own obsession: an unapologetically pure sport sedan.

“RTFKT put the same passion into developing this one-of-a-kind shoe that we did in developing the new 2021 Lexus IS,” said Vinay Shahani, vice president of Lexus marketing. “Steven and Chris delivered a head-turning sneaker that unmistakably mirrors the bold design and impressive performance of the IS.”

Founded by Zaptio and Le, RTFKT is a global collective of designers merging next-gen gaming and sneaker culture and works with more than 150 3D artists to create its designs. The studio focuses on one-of-a-kind creations, from color-changing sneakers made from futuristic materials to digital-only virtual collectibles. Their special edition sneaker inspired by the 2021 Lexus IS sport sedan will not be available for sale.

For more information on the new IS, visit https://www.lexus.com/models/IS.

About Lexus
Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its guests. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 243 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With six models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers eight F SPORT models and two F performance models. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers.

www.facebook.com/lexus
www.twitter.com/lexus
www.youtube.com/lexusvehicles
www.instagram.com/lexususa
https://www.pinterest.com/lexususa

Note to Editors: Lexus product information and images are available online via our news media website http://LexusNewsroom.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Erin Portman
512-736-1640
[email protected]

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SOURCE Lexus

If you were exposed to water from the Flint Water Treatment Plant between April 25, 2014 and November 16, 2020, your rights may be affected by a $641 million settlement

February 26, 2021

FLINT, Mich., Feb. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ —

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN

The deadline to register for the Settlement is March 29, 2021.
To learn more, visit www.OfficialFlintWaterSettlement.com

This notice explains a class action settlement in the Flint Water Cases. The notice applies to you if at any time during the period April 25, 2014 to November 16, 2020 (“Exposure Period”):

(1)   you were exposed to water from the Flint Water Treatment Plant (“FWTP”) and you were 18 years or older at any time when you were exposed; or
(2)   you were 18 years or older at any time when you owned, rented, or lived in residential property served by the FWTP, or were legally liable for the payment for such water, during that time; or
(3)   you owned or operated a business served by the FWTP, or were legally liable for the payment for such water, during that time.

What is the lawsuit about? The lawsuits assert that residents of Flint and others who used or were exposed to water from the FWTP between April 25, 2014 and November 16, 2020, suffered personal injury, property damage, economic loss, or any other type of damage or injury as a result of exposure to, use of, or being obligated to pay for, the contaminated water. The lawsuits claim that when the City of Flint switched to the Flint River as the source of water in 2014, the water was not treated correctly and that it caused pipes to corrode and release lead and other contaminants into the water. Plaintiffs allege that exposure to contaminated water received from the Flint Water Treatment Plant (located at 4500 Dort Highway, Flint, Michigan 48506), during the period April 25, 2014 to November 16, 2020, has caused a public health crisis.

Settling Defendants deny any and all alleged liability, wrongdoing, violations, and/or damages. The Court has not decided who is right.

Who is included? The Settlement Class includes all persons or entities who are or could be claiming personal injury, property damage, business economic loss, unjust enrichment, breach of contract, or seeking any other type of damage or relief. Specific details on the Settlement Class and Subclasses are available at www.OfficialFlintWaterSettlement.com.

What does the Settlement provide? The value of the entire Settlement Program is approximately $641.25 million. The Settlement Fund is allocated among different categories. Please visit www.OfficialFlintWaterSettlement.com to see how the Settlement Fund is allocated by category. If the settlement becomes final, Settlement Class Members who participate in the settlement or do nothing at all will release all their claims against the Settling Defendants. They will not be allowed to bring any lawsuit against the Settling Defendants related to Flint water or the Flint Water Cases.

What are your options? To make a claim for money from the class action Settlement Fund, you must first submit a valid Registration Form. You may file your Registration Form online or my mail. The deadline to file a Registration Form online is 11:59 pm PST on March 29, 2021. The postmark deadline to file a Registration Form by mail is March 29, 2021. Visit www.OfficialFlintWaterSettlement.com now to file your online Registration Form or print one out to file by mail. Those that validly file a Registration Form will later be sent a Claim Form along with instructions about how to complete the Claim Form.

If you do not want to participate in this proposed class settlement and you want to keep the right to sue the Settling Defendants about the legal issues in this case, then you must take steps to get out of the settlement. This is called “opting out” of the Settlement Class. To opt out of the Settlement Class and not participate in the settlement, you must send a written request using the Opt Out Form provided at www.OfficialFlintWaterSettlement.com. You must mail your completed Opt Out Form, postmarked by March 29, 2021. If you are a member of the Settlement Class and do not opt out, you give up the right to sue the Settling Defendants for any of the claims released by the settlement. If you are a Settlement Class Member (and do not exclude yourself from the Settlement Class), you can object to any part of the Settlement. The deadline to file an objection is March 29, 2021. For more information on how to Opt Out or Object, please visit www.OfficialFlintWaterSettlement.com.

The Court will hold a Fairness Hearing, currently scheduled for July 12, 2021, to determine whether the Settlement Class can be certified and whether the settlement is fair, adequate, and reasonable and should be finally approved, with judgment entered accordingly. The Court will also consider the application for an award of attorneys’ fees and expense reimbursement. You are welcome to attend the hearing at your own expense, but you are not required to attend. You may also hire your own attorney, at your own expense, to appear or speak for you at the hearing. For more information, call 1-800-493-1754 or visit www.OfficialFlintWaterSettlement.com.

SOURCE United States District Court Eastern District of Michigan

The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Condemns Congresswoman Lesko’s Racist Remarks Restricting COVID-19 Vaccine Access

February 26, 2021

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), America’s largest Hispanic business organization, condemns the racist remarks by U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (R-AZ) about Hispanic Americans at the recent Energy & Commerce hearing on Thursday February 11, 2021. Hispanic Americans contribute $2.6 trillion to the U.S. economy each year and collectively are the world’s seventh largest economy.

“We condemn all racism, including remarks that cast negative stereotypes on the Hispanic community and imply Hispanic Americans do not belong in our country. To date, Hispanic Americans have been disproportionately impacted by this pandemic, with higher infection and mortality rates. This is due to the number of essential Hispanic workers providing healthcare, food service, and logistics in every American community. It is important that everyone has access to COVID-19 vaccines and we encourage Congress to promote equitable distribution of vaccines for all,” said Ramiro A. Cavazos, USHCC President & CEO. “We hope for a sincere apology from Congresswoman Lesko for her remarks so that we can get back to the important work of ending this pandemic and economic recovery.”

“We denounce Representative Lesko’s statement and any language that negatively portrays our Latino community and belies our substantial contributions to this country,” said Alice Rodriguez, Chair of the USHCC Board of Directors. “The data trends show that Latinos are the most represented among our frontline essential workers as well as our national economic growth and recovery process. These statements are unacceptable.”

Lesko made this statement on a proposed amendment to prioritize citizens for vaccines:

“Arizona is a border state. We are compassionate people too. We have a lot of different varieties of people that live here. It’s very diverse. I worked with people that are Hispanic. I mean they’re very good workers. We’re compassionate people, but for goodness sakes, we have to take care of American citizens, or people that are here legally, first. I’m just not going to be able to explain to my senior citizens that we’re giving away the vaccines to people that [are] here illegally. I just think that’s totally wrong.”

The abhorrent comments came days before the United States reached the sad milestone of 500,000 deaths from the COVID-19 virus, affecting so many families from all walks of life.

“We agree with the Department of Homeland Security that ‘equal access to the COVID-19 vaccines… for undocumented immigrants… is a moral and public health imperative.’ Further, we invite Congresswoman Lesko to engage in a discussion about how to best protect all lives in Arizona, regardless of age or status,” said Monica Villalobos, President & CEO, Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

“Arizona and our entire country have experienced great loss due to the pandemic. The statements made by Congresswoman Lesko regarding Hispanic Arizonans with the second highest impacted community at 30% infection rate and 29% in deaths, is both inhumane and ill-informed. These types of comments by a leader of our state only serve to disenfranchise and create distrust at a time when we must work together. This is not the language of someone who is working for all their constituents during a time of true life and death circumstances,” added Isabel Georgelos, President & CEO, Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

About the USHCC The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) actively promotes the economic growth, development, and interests of more than 4.7 million Hispanic-owned businesses, that combined, contribute over $800 billion to the American economy every year. It advocates on behalf of its network of more than 250 local chambers and business associations nationwide. For more information, please visit ushcc.com. Follow us on Twitter @USHCC.

SOURCE United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC)

Toyota Mobility Foundation Designates First Mobility Pilot Technologies and Collaborators for Indiana Future Mobility District Initiative

February 26, 2021

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and Energy Systems Network (ESN) designates May Mobility and Udelv as the first two deployments of the Future Mobility District initiative. The Future Mobility District initiative, established in collaboration with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), aims to foster innovation through industry partnerships and propel research and development in advanced mobility technologies in Indiana. TMF has established the Future Mobility District initiative in support of Toyota’s mission of Mobility for All and commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in this case to the Goal # 11 of Sustainable Cities and Communities.

The Future Mobility District will support deployments focused on improving overall movement of people and goods to validate their role in the changing mobility ecosystem. Designed with local community input, this human-centered framework will facilitate implementation activities and commercialization of an array of cooperative options.

May Mobility, a leader in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology and shuttle operations, will begin operating two 6-month non-concurrent AV shuttle services for passengers in the cities of Indianapolis and Fishers. The Indianapolis deployment is designed to increase mobility options by providing a connection from the nearby Vermont Station – along IndyGO’s Red Line – to areas west of downtown. The fixed-route service will be open to the general public when operations begin in May 2021 and will include five Lexus RX450h vehicles equipped with May Mobility’s autonomous technology alongside one wheelchair-accessible Polaris GEM shuttle.

“The May Mobility team is thrilled to be partnering with the Toyota Mobility Foundation and Energy Systems Network to bring this new AV shuttle service to Indianapolis and Fishers,” said Edwin Olson, co-founder and CEO of May Mobility. “Our mission is to offer safe, reliable and accessible transportation options that can seamlessly integrate with the available public and private services. And with every new deployment, we are able to expand our capabilities to better serve the riders and communities.”

Prior to launching its operations, May Mobility will establish its regional headquarters at the Indiana Internet of Things (IoT) Lab in Fishers. Founded in 2017, the Indiana IoT Lab is one of the nation’s first to bring together various players in the growing IoT sector and contributes to making central Indiana a thriving hub of innovation, education, and networking opportunities. May Mobility will subsequently commence autonomous vehicle operations in Fishers in November 2021.

We’ve built our community to be smart and entrepreneurial in both business and lifestyle to make way for opportunities such as this,” said Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness. “The partnership with ESN, Toyota Mobility Foundation, and May Mobility allows Fishers to be at the forefront of personal mobility in Indiana.”

Udelv, the world’s leading autonomous delivery platform for last and middle mile delivery, improves living quality in cities by reducing overall traffic and carbon footprint through their highly effective and innovative Delivery Management System (DMS), comprised of an automated cargo pod (the uPod®) and a cloud-based operating system, the UdelvOS. Udelv’s DMS is the only true contactless delivery system in the world. Through Udelv’s uPod, goods are retrieved from an individual compartment by consumers without direct contact with the vehicle’s driver. Udelv will begin operations of their program in 2021 in Indianapolis with one Toyota Sienna equipped with their innovative DMS technology.

“We are excited to now also deploy our platform on a Toyota Sienna in Indianapolis and allow for true contactless delivery and improved customer service levels while lowering cost and pollution in the process”, says Daniel Laury, CEO of Udelv.

“As we actively pursue Mobility for All through our Future Mobility District initiative, we want to continue to partner with like-minded organizations like Udelv and May Mobility who understand the importance of advancing innovation in mobility through community engagement,” shared Ryan Klem, Director of Programs for the Toyota Mobility Foundation. “We are confident they are key players in helping to build the future of sustainable cities and communities.

“The introduction of the Indiana Future Mobility District’s first two mobility services are major steps forward for defining the initiative and validating its model for cost-effective and cooperative mobility technologies,” said Matt Peak, managing director, ESN. “The integration of additive technologies into the region’s existing transportation resources will continue to push central Indiana to the cutting edge of innovation and help inform deployment strategies in other regions.”

Additional details about the Future Mobility District initiative deployments and how to get involved will be made available in the coming months leading up to the launch of these pilots.

About Toyota Mobility Foundation
The Toyota Mobility Foundation was established in August 2014 to support the development of a more mobile society. The Foundation aims to support strong and equitable mobility systems. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise in technology, safety, and the environment, working in collaboration with universities, government, non-profit organizations, research institutions and other organizations to address mobility issues around the world. Solutions till date have aimed at resolving urban transportation problems, expanding the utilization of multi-modal mobility and developing solutions for future generations.

About Energy Systems Network
ESN is an Indianapolis-based nonprofit initiative focused on the development of the advanced energy technology and transportation sectors. Over the last decade, ESN has collaborated with a range of industry, academia, and government partners to deliver sustainable energy and mobility solutions, including electric car sharing, vehicle-to-smart grid communications, mobility-as-a-service, and others. ESN’s mission is to leverage its network of global thought leaders to develop integrated energy solutions to increase quality of life for today and tomorrow. The company’s focus is to: reduce costs, emissions and waste; influence policy; and advance technological innovation. For more information, and to download Emerging Mobility Technologies and Trends, visit www.energysystemsnetwork.com.

About IEDC
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indiana’s economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 15-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov.

About May Mobility
May Mobility is a leader in autonomous vehicle technology development and deployment. With more than 270,000 autonomous rides to date, May Mobility is committed to delivering safe, efficient and sustainable shuttle solutions designed to complement today’s public transportation options. The company’s ultimate goal is to realize a world where self-driving systems make transportation more accessible and reliable, the roads safer, and encourage better land use in order to foster more green, vibrant, and livable spaces. For more information, visit maymobility.com.

About Udelv
On a mission to improve people’s lives, road safety and deliver a sustainable industry, Udelv is revolutionizing the logistics space with its Autonomous Delivery Vans (ADV), built specifically for last and middle mile delivery on public roads. Founded in California in late 2017 by Daniel Laury and Akshat Patel, Udelv’s mission is to revolutionize delivery and shape the future of autonomous deliveries. In January 2018, Udelv successfully accomplished the first ever autonomous delivery on public roads. Udelv has since completed nearly 30,000 deliveries for multiple merchants in CA, AZ and TX and is preparing for expansion in many other states. Udelv is the leader in the last and middle mile logistics space through its proprietary delivery & access platform. Udelv’s focus on autonomous vehicles paired with its uPod delivery technology enable long-range and high-capacity deliveries that are eco, business and customer friendly. For more information, visit www.udelv.com.

About City of Fishers
The City of Fishers is a suburb of Indianapolis, Indiana, located in Hamilton County and was named #1 Place to Live in the US by Money Magazine in 2017. Under the leadership of Mayor Scott Fadness, Fishers is known as a smart, vibrant, and entrepreneurial city through its neighborhood development, dedication to supporting high-growth companies, and innovative city processes. With a population of 91,832 (2017), Fishers is one of the fastest growing communities in Indiana and has received national accolades for entrepreneurship, livability, and safety. City branding guidelines and logos can be downloaded here.

Media Contacts:
Julie Ann Burandt (TMF) – [email protected]
Drew Tharp (ESN) – [email protected]
Erin Sweitzer (IEDC) – 317-296-2556 or [email protected]
Afaf Farah (May Mobility) – 248-346-0407 or [email protected]
Tobias Wessels (Udelv) – [email protected]
Ashley Elrod (City of Fishers, IN) – 317-903-9825 or [email protected]

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1444877/IndySkyline.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/439685/Toyota_Corp_Red_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Toyota Mobility Foundation

Colgate-Palmolive Launches New Colgate Renewal Focused on Improving Overall Gum Health

February 26, 2021

NEW YORK, Feb. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, Colgate-Palmolive announced an exciting new product innovation – New Colgate Renewal toothpaste, designed by gum care experts to reverse early gum damage for a beautiful, revitalized smile. With technology backed by clinical research, Colgate Renewal targets and repairs early gum issues to help keep smiles healthy into the future.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8856451-new-colgate-renewal-toothpaste-launches-with-brooke-shields-ana-de-la-reguera/

Every day, people take steps to help reduce and prevent the signs of aging – but many forget that gums also age. Gum care is often perceived as a specialized need, when in fact the gums are the foundation to a healthy, beautiful smile. Adding Colgate Renewal to your daily routine is a simple step to help prevent gum issues that arise over time and keep smiles healthy into the future.

To celebrate this new launch, Colgate is partnering with longtime actress and model, Brooke Shields and actress, producer, and activist Ana de la Reguera to spread awareness on the importance of proactive gum care. Both celebrities know how important a healthy, beautiful smile is to feeling confident in front of the camera and in their everyday lives – and gums are the foundation to that.

“This is my third partnership with Colgate, and I couldn’t be more excited to be back representing a brand I have used my entire life,” said Colgate Ambassador, Brooke Shield. “Their products have helped me to feel confident in front of the camera with a healthy, revitalized smile, and I’m thrilled to continue that story with their latest innovation, Colgate Renewal toothpaste.”

With a new premium look and feel, Colgate is bringing attention to gum health with wow-worthy packaging and beautiful translucent gel aesthetics that are reflective of a brilliant and healthy smile.

“In this profession, and really in life, it’s just as important to proactively take care of my smile the same way I take care of my skin… And taking care of my smile includes taking care of my gums … they’re half of my smile!” said Colgate Ambassador, Ana de la Reguera. “By adding Colgate Renewal toothpaste to my daily routine, I am able to help keep my smile healthy today and into the future.”

Colgate Renewal comes in three variants — Whitening Restoration, Enamel Fortifying and Sensitivity Repair to address your unique smile needs while protecting the health of your gums. Available starting now, Colgate Renewal toothpaste ($6.99 – $9.99 per 3 oz. tube) can be found at most major retailers. Ready to revitalize your smile? Visit www.colgate.com for more information.

About Colgate-Palmolive

Colgate-Palmolive Company is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. Focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition, the Company sells its products in more than 200 countries and territories under brands such as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, hello, meridol, Sorriso, Tom’s of Maine, eltaMD, Filorga, Irish Spring, PCA Skin, Protex, Sanex, Softsoap, Speed Stick, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet. The Company is recognized for its leadership and innovation in promoting environmental sustainability and community wellbeing, including its achievements in saving water, reducing waste, promoting recyclability and improving children’s oral health through its Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, which has reached more than one billion children since 1991. For more information about Colgate’s global business and how the Company is building a future to smile about, visit www.colgatepalmolive.com. CL-C

Media Contact:
Claudia Garcia
bcw | burson cohn & wolfe
[email protected]

SOURCE Colgate-Palmolive

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