The New York Latino Film Festival, Presented By HBO, To Kick Off Opening Night With Icon Ruben Blades And The Documentary “Ruben Blades Is Not My Name”

August 1, 2018

The nations’ leading Latino film festival, celebrating its 15^th anniversary, will be held on August 22 – 26, 2018 at various theaters around New York City with films featuring notable stars such as Gilberto Santa Rosa, Brian Kaufman, Liliana Biamonte, Residente, Bryshere Y. Gray, Mekhi Phifer and many more.

Full Schedule and Tickets Available July 31^st at NYLatinoFilmFestival.com

NEW YORK, July 31, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF), the nation’s largest and most diverse Latino film festival, and a touchstone of the nation’s thriving multicultural cinematic movement, kicks off its 15^th edition on Wednesday, August 22^nd with the New York premiere of the film “Ruben Blades Is Not My Name.” Directed by critically acclaimed director, Abner Benaim, the film stars Ruben Blades, Sting, Paul Simon, Residente, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Larry Harlow, Andy Montañez, Ismael Miranda, Junot Diaz, Luba Mason, among others. The star-studded documentary offers an intimate portrait of Ruben Blades, revealing the artist’s struggle to come to terms with his legacy and influence in elevating Salsa music to an international scale.

This year, the NYLFF will showcase a diverse slate representing 17 countries, spanning all genres and formats including features, shorts, documentaries, web series and experimental films featuring, about and/or for the U.S. Latino community. Highlights this year include: HBO Documentary Films “The Sentence,” which explores the devastating consequences of mass incarceration and mandatory minimum drug sentencing and USA Today’s, “The Wall,” looking at the impact, and unintended consequences of President Trump’s $20 billion promise to build a wall between the United States and Mexico. Other notable selections include “La Palabra de Pablo/ The Word of Pablo,” a sexy and tragic film-noirish take on William Shakespeare’s “Othello” featuring a wealthy family in contemporary El Salvador; “Rich Kids,” a vibrant portrait of six troubled teenagers ongoing challenges like economic disparities, gentrification, displacement, and evictions faced through the lens of Latino and Afro-Latino American youth in South Houston; “Heredera del Viento/ Heiress of the Wind,” a highly personal and searing documentary about torture, tragic deaths, doubt, and disillusionment in Nicaragua, “Canal Street,” a heart-pounding tale of faith and justice as a high school teen from the South Side finds himself at the center of a murder investigation, among many others. For a full list of programs and locations, click here.

“We are proud to be celebrating our 15^th year of serving and empowering our community. This important festival, in celebration of inclusion, aims to highlight our untold stories, unique experiences and daily realities in this country. It is important now, more than ever, that we provide a strong platform for emerging and established filmmakers to showcase films that audiences can truly identify with. NYLFF is you,” said Calixto Chinchilla, Founder of NYLFF.

This year, NYLFF will present, once again, “FUTURO,” a digital conference presented by Google and Driven Society, on August 22^rd at the Google NY Headquarters. The one-day conference will feature leading digital thought-leaders, executives, and social media influencers, whom will participate in panel discussions on the most innovative and upcoming trends in the Latino digital space.

Sponsors

The New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF) is presented by HBO. Major sponsors include American Airlines, Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo. Additional support provided by WarnerMedia’s OneFifty, Hennessy, Google, Driven Society, AARP, USA Today, SociedAD, The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), Third World Newsreel, AMC Independent, The Hispanic Federation and Everybody Digital. For sponsorship and brand partnership opportunities, please contact: [email protected]

About the New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF)

The New York Latino Film Festival (NYLFF) is the nation’s premier Urban Latino film event founded by Calixto Chinchilla. Since its inception in 1999, each year, the NYLFF brings together more than 20,000 movie fans and industry executives for a celebration of culturally relevant and entertaining experiences that aims to build audiences for Latino cinema, support the film community with professional development and foster relationships for Latino talent. Programming includes the flagship film festival in New York City, the Futuro digital conference, competition programs, as well as community programs. For more information on NYLFF, please visit www.NYLatinoFilmFestival.com.

To connect with NYLFF on social media, follow us on Facebook (@NYLatinoFilm), Instagram (@NYLatinoFilmFestival), and Twitter (@NYLFF). #NYLFF

About HBO

HBO® is one of the most respected and innovative entertainment brands in the world, serving iconic, award-winning programming to 142 million subscribers globally. A subsidiary of WarnerMedia, HBO is the world’s most successful pay TV service with an extensive array of programming that includes some of the most notable titles to be on television including Game of Thrones®, Big Little Lies®, Westworld®, The Sopranos®, Sex and the City®, Band of Brothers®, and The Wire®. In the United States, HBO^® and sister network Cinemax® are available across multiple platforms including HBO On Demand®, Cinemax On Demand®, HBO GO® and MAX GO®, as well as HBO NOW®. Internationally, HBO branded services, including television networks and the standalone streaming product HBO GO®, are available in more than 70 countries across Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. HBO and Cinemax programming is also sold into more than 150 countries worldwide.

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SOURCE New York Latino Film Festival

Colgate-Palmolive Honors Hispanic Heritage Month through Annual Educational Grant Program for High School Students with Hispanic Heritage Foundation

August 1, 2018

Colgate-Palmolive in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, encourages high school students to get on the path to higher education.

NEW YORK, Aug. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In partnership with Hispanic Heritage Foundation, Colgate-Palmolive is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with its annual Haz la U™ (“Make the U-Turn”) educational grant program. Now in its tenth year, the initiative supports higher education among Latinx with financial grants for tuition and other academic-related costs. A total of 31 grants ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 will be awarded to the winning students and applicable to the 2019-20 academic year.

Colgate is proud to fund the Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s Youth Awards program in the Community Service category, where select high school seniors who demonstrate excellence in volunteerism and leadership from across the U.S. will be awarded a grant.

Eligible students can apply for grants via Colgate.com/HazLaU now through October 15, 2018. Colgate’s Youth Award winners will be selected by the Hispanic Heritage Foundation based on academic excellence, dedication, and demonstration of leadership within their community.

While Hispanic college enrollment continues to rise and has more than tripled over the last two decades, Latinx often do not complete studies through to graduation, according to Pew Research Center¹. Often reporting a lack of financial resources, many of these students are less likely to enroll in four-year schools, opting instead for two-year community colleges or as part-time students while working full-time.

Henry Rosas, a past recipient of the $15,000 grand prize Haz la U grant and the gold medallion in his region, is now a rising sophomore at Yale University. His story was chronicled in two short films in English and Spanish. Rosas says, “I want to be a fighter for people who don’t have a voice. I’m the first in my family’s lineage to ever go to college. I hope to create a change — however big or how small that is. With hard work and dedication, you can leave the world a better place than you found it.”

More information about Haz la U and application guidelines are available in English and Spanish at www.colgate.com/hazlau.

About Colgate-Palmolive
Colgate-Palmolive is a leading global consumer products company, tightly focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition. Colgate sells its products in over 200 countries and territories around the world under such internationally recognized brand names as Colgate, Palmolive, Speed Stick, Lady Speed Stick, Softsoap, Irish Spring, Protex, Sorriso, Kolynos, elmex, Tom’s of Maine, Sanex, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill’s Science Diet, Hill’s Prescription Diet and Hill’s Ideal Balance. For more information about Colgate’s global business, visit the Company’s web site at http://www.colgatepalmolive.com. To learn more about Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® oral health education program, please visit http://www.colgatebsbf.com. CL-C

About HHF
The Hispanic Heritage Foundation – a nonprofit established by the White House in 1987 – inspires, prepares, and connects minority leaders in the classroom, community, and workforce to meet America’s priorities. HHF also promotes cultural pride, accomplishment, and the great promise of the community through public awareness campaigns seen by millions. HHF is headquartered in Washington, DC, and Los Angeles with satellite workspaces in New York, Silicon Valley, San Antonio, and Miami (Visit www.HispanicHeritage.org).

¹http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/07/28/5-facts-about-latinos-and-education/

Video – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/725065/Colgate_Palmolive_Hispanic_Heritage_Month.mp4
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/725064/Colgate_Palmolive_HHF_Grants.jpg

SOURCE Colgate-Palmolive

MoneyGram and Grupo Elektra Extend Partnership in Mexico

August 1, 2018

DALLAS, Aug. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — MoneyGram (NASDAQ: MGI) and Grupo Elektra, have extended their agreement to provide money transfer services inside nearly 2,000 Elektra locations in Mexico through 2021. The partnership strengthens MoneyGram’s position in the dynamically growing market – with over $30 billion inflows in 2017, the U.S. to Mexico is the largest remittance corridor in the world.

Grupo Elektra is Latin America’s leading specialty retailer and financial services company and the largest non-bank provider of cash advance services in the United States. Since 2012, MoneyGram and Grupo Elektra have worked together to make sending and receiving money around the world easy and convenient for consumers in Mexico.

“MoneyGram and Grupo Elektra have a shared goal to provide services to families that can help improve their quality of life while also delivering a great customer experience,” said Grant Lines, MoneyGram’s chief revenue officer. “We are proud of what we have accomplished together and we look forward to continuing our partnership to provide customers a source of financial inclusion.”

#moneygramnews

About MoneyGram International, Inc.

MoneyGram is a global provider of innovative money transfer and payment services and is recognized worldwide as a financial connection to friends and family. Whether online, or through a mobile device, at a kiosk or in a local store, we connect consumers any way that is convenient for them. We also provide bill payment services, issue money orders and process official checks in select markets. More information about MoneyGram International, Inc. is available at moneygram.com.

Media Contact:
Michelle Buckalew
[email protected]
214-979-1418

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/600838/MoneyGram_International_Logo.jpg

SOURCE MoneyGram

Avon Representatives From Across The Nation Celebrated At Annual RepFest Convention In Columbus, Ohio

August 1, 2018

NEW YORK, July 31, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — New Avon LLC (“Avon“) took over Columbus, Ohio as 6,000 Avon Representatives hit the capital city for the company’s annual “RepFest” Convention from July 26-29. Beauty bosses from all fifty states attended the three-day celebration – complete with exciting new product launches, valuable business-building seminars and recognition events honoring top Avon Representatives.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8375451-avon-rep-fest-2018/

Avon Representatives were front and center during the conference as the brand unveiled its latest campaign catalog which honors and features Avon Representatives. From top-sellers to accomplished leaders, the first-of-its-kind catalog for the brand recognizes the Avon Representative community by highlighting the real people who are not only the cover models but also the role models. All Avon Representatives featured in the campaign attended RepFest and were celebrated for achieving their career goals having paved their own unique paths to success with the beauty brand.

“For over 130 years, Avon has empowered generations of women to achieve their full potential,” says Scott White, Chief Executive Officer, New Avon LLC. “With the rise of the sharing economy, hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs across the country are coming to Avon for the freedom and flexibility, and for an opportunity that is simple, easy and fun. RepFest is our opportunity to share our commitment to our Representatives’ success by delivering the very best social selling tools, training and incentives, and an innovative beauty brand loved by millions of customers.”

“Every year, RepFest puts a spotlight on the power and pride that lies within our amazing Avon Representative community of women. They are the change makers, trailblazers, trendsetters and influencers who are defining the future of Avon,” said Betty Palm, President, Social Selling for New Avon LLC. “Avon Representatives come to RepFest for the inspiration and motivation to take their Avon business to next level and learn from some of our most successful Leaders in the company. We were thrilled to applaud our Representatives and celebrate their incredible stories of success.”

Successful real estate entrepreneur, Barbara Corcoran, took center stage as a keynote speaker, inspiring the crowd with words of wisdom about building their business and leading their teams to greatness. Corcoran shared her personal journey to success, offering strategies for overcoming barriers developed over the course of her career and sharing life lessons.

“In my opinion, entrepreneurs are the best kind of people. I love the entrepreneurial spirit of the Avon community and applaud every Representative for running their own businesses. People often ask me about the top advice I have for new entrepreneurs – and it is simply to just get out there without overthinking. Get started because it all starts with the first step.” said Corcoran during her remarks.

Avon also celebrated National Lipstick Day on July 29 at RepFest, by launching the Kiss Breast Cancer Goodbye Campaign in partnership with American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and awareness with education are imperative for potentially lifesaving early detection. To help grow the conversation, Avon is encouraging people to blow a kiss on their social media feeds, tag 8 friends and use the hashtags #KissBreastCancerGoodbye and #AvonMakingStrides. Thousands of Avon Representatives left their mark on a massive kissing wall in the convention center. Avon kissing walls will continue to make appearances at the American Cancer Society Making Strides walks across the country through the fall.

Other RepFest highlights included:

Exclusive Avon concert with award winning performers, Rascal Flatts
The largest Avon product expo ever gave Avon Representatives the opportunity to get up close and personal with signature and upcoming Avon product launches, including breakthrough launches of ANEW Hydra Fusion Collection, ANEW Unlimited Lashes Activating Serum, Avon True Color Love at 1^st Lash Mascara and Velvet Eau de Parfum
Social selling strategist and CEO of Multibrain, Scott Kramer educated about the power of using social media in direct selling and shared new tools exclusive to Avon Representatives
Award-winning nutrition expert, author and health advocate, Ashley Koff, RD educated about nutrition and supporting health and boosting natural energy using Espira, Avon’s supplement line
Signature certification classes in color, skincare, fundraising and our new health and wellness line were offered with top experts including Avon celebrity makeup artist, Kelsey Deenihan
Behind-the-scenes tour of Avon’s largest state-of-the-art shipping facility in nearby Zanesville, OH
An on-site recording for Avon’s new podcast, Make It Happen: Powered by Avon. A special “Best of RepFest” episode will be released
Happiness facilitator and recovering perfectionist, Petra Kolber, presented tools and strategies to reframe thoughts and level your mindset
Tips for how to reach your full potential and put an action plan together from renowned bilingual speaker, Luis Fallas

Those interested in becoming an Avon Representative or purchasing products through a local Avon Representative can visit avon.com.

About New Avon LLC
New Avon LLC (“Avon“) is the leading social selling beauty company in North America, with independent sales Representatives throughout the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. Avon’s portfolio includes award-winning skincare, color cosmetics, fragrance, personal care and health and wellness products featuring brands such as ANEW, Avon True Color, Espira, and Skin So Soft, as well as fashion and accessories. Avon has a 130-year history of empowering women through economic opportunity, and supporting the causes that matter most to women. Avon philanthropy has contributed over $1 billion globally toward eradicating breast cancer and domestic violence. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avon.com.

Paige Cali
Avon
212-282-6431
[email protected]

Sweta Shah
CIVIC
856-305-4767
[email protected]

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/356238/Avon_Logo.jpg

SOURCE New Avon, LLC

Unilever’s #QueTeMueve Campaign with Denise Bidot at BESE Identity Gallery

August 1, 2018

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In celebration of the diverse Latinx identity, Unilever’s #QueTeMueve platform has partnered with media company BESE for their art gallery showcase celebrating the many faces of today’s American youth. Unilever #QueTeMueve highlights the diverse sources of inspiration that the Latinx community draws from as they forge their own path; one that is true to their heritage and how they want to see themselves in the world. Unilever brought this to life through brand spokesperson, international model and activist Denise Bidot who shared with media and event attendees how she herself has forged a new path within her career while staying true to her heritage.

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8372351-unilever-quetemueve-latinx-denise-bidot/

Melissa Vargas
[email protected]
212-299-3958

SOURCE Unilever

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Announces Full Slate of Haunted Attractions for Horror Made Here: A Festival of Frights

August 1, 2018

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood (WBSTH) is expanding its already chilling Horror Made Here: A Festival of Frights with new attractions created to give horror fans a night to remember. In addition to the return of Pennywise in our reimagined It Knows What Scares You maze, and debut of the sinister institution from Batman: Arkham Asylum, this year’s Horror Made Here will also feature a blood-curdling maze from The Conjuring Universe, a diabolical viewing of The Exorcist, an eerie tour through Freddy vs. Jason’s Camp Crystal Lake, and much more.

In this year’s reinvented maze, guests will experience a sneak peek into the world of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren as they confront a host of satanic spirits from The Conjuring Universe. Fans will fall victim to Annabelle’s devious games, and come face-to-face with the demon lurking in the shadows from New Line Cinema’s latest installment The Nun, in theaters September 7^th, 2018.

Deep, dark woods conceal the ghastly presence of Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees, waiting to give visitors the worst nightmare of their lives. Aboard a Warner Bros.’ tour cart, guests must survive a cunning game of cat and mouse as they navigate through the infamous Camp Crystal Lake – and all of the horrors unveiled along the way. Brave campers will be left to their own devices to explore the campground, while those unlucky enough to face Freddy and Jason will suffer the gruesome fate they have in store for them.

In addition, those seeking even more supernatural thrills are in for a treat as Horror Made Here will present a special “forbidden screening” of the 1973 classic The Exorcist. Visitors who wish to encounter a truly demonic spirit will enter the safe haven of our backlot church and witness an evil beyond this world right from the pews. In this 4D experience, guests will relive the most terrifying scenes from The Exorcist in an unholy viewing known to provoke demonic forces.

Horror Made Here will also offer a series of attractions and activities for horror loving fans, including:

Devil’s Drop Tower: Adventurous visitors will have the opportunity to take the 90-foot plunge into the air for the scream of their life.
Stage 48: Script to Scream: Enter the world of Tim Burton and see authentic props and costumes from his iconic movies Sweeney Todd, The Corpse Bride, Mars Attacks! and for the first time ever on display at Warner Bros., original props from the Halloween classic, Beetlejuice.
Horror Makeup Demonstrations: Learn how makeup artists bring terrifying characters to life with our special Horror Made Here SFX makeup demonstrations throughout the night.
The Lost Boys Arcade: Play iconic games in the retro Lost Boys-themed arcade. Games include titles like Ms. Pac-Man, Tetris, Mario Bros, Space Invaders and Terminator 2 Pinball.
Horror Made Here Night Tour: Board a quick nighttime tour through the Warner Bros.’ backlot for a guided exploration behind-the-scenes of beloved titles in horror entertainment, including iconic filming locations like New York Street, where House of Wax was shot.

Additionally, Horror Made Here will feature carnival games, live entertainment, a “Little Shop of Horrors” where guests can purchase Halloween and Horror Made Here merchandise, plus fun food and beverage options, including the goth-punk Fangtasia Bar featured in the HBO series True Blood, serving regular drinks for humans and “Tru-Blood” for vampires.

“We are thrilled to announce our expanded line-up for Horror Made Here. At Warner Bros., we are committed to delivering not just a scary experience, but one that’s unforgettably unique to its setting on the legendary backlot where some of horror’s most iconic films were brought to life,” said Gary Soloff, Director of Marketing, WBSTH. “This year, our extended nights and hours will give guests the opportunity to relive some of their favorite moments in horror while also enjoying our creepy carnival filled with more entertainment and plenty of food and drinks.”

Horror Made Here will begin on October 5, 2018, allowing fans to face their biggest fears for 13 nights. Tickets are on sale now, starting from $59 per person at horrormadehere.com.

For a premium experience, join “The Losers’ Club” for the night to enjoy front-of-line access to each maze, two complimentary beverages, one free IT photo-op, and free priority parking.

About Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood gets you closer to the entertainment you love. As a recipient of Trip Advisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards and recognized as one of the Top 25 Attractions in the United States, the Studio Tour gives guests a revealing look behind the camera at how Hollywood magic is made. From Friends and The Big Bang Theory to Harry Potter and Wonder Woman, fans get to see the real sets and soundstages where the greatest names in entertainment made history as they touch, tour and explore the iconic 110-acre studio lot.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood is open daily from 8:30AM to 4:00PM, with tours departing every 30 minutes and extended hours offered during the summer, spring break and winter holiday seasons. Advanced bookings are strongly recommended, and children eight years or older are welcome. For the best value, book your tickets online at www.wbstudiotour.com or by calling 818-977-TOUR (8687).

Horror Made Here: A Festival of Frights is a special ticketed event, held on October 5-6, October 12-14, October 18-21 and October 25-28, open from 7PM to 1AM. The event ticket includes access to the festival, all scare mazes and the night tour. Limited capacity per night, purchase early to guarantee your ticket. Visit horrormadehere.com for more information.

SOURCE Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

del Sol Foundation’s Solar + Storage Microgrids Create Lasting Impact and Glimpse of a Resilient Future for Puerto Rico

August 1, 2018

LOS ANGELES, July 31, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The del Sol Foundation for Energy Security, a non-profit organization founded by members of sonnen, Inc. to oversee the implementation of humanitarian microgrids for relief following Hurricane Maria, today highlighted its success in rebuilding remote communities in Puerto Rico while demonstrating the capabilities of energy independence on a larger scale.

In the days following Hurricane Maria and the devastation it wreaked on multiple islands and nations in the Caribbean, sonnen, the global market leader in intelligent residential energy storage, partnered with forward-thinking solar energy company Pura Energia, and sprang into action, implementing the first of what would become 12 microgrids throughout the island, ultimately impacting over 4,000 people per day. The initial success of the first microgrid, made possible by a faith-based community that came together to power a church in Loiza to be used as a community center, was reflective of Puerto Rico’s resilience and the collaborative efforts to come.

After experiencing an initial effort and result both humbling and inspiring, members of the U.S. sonnen leadership team formed the del Sol Foundation for Energy Security. An independently managed 501(c)(3), del Sol possesses a clear vision of providing “a hand up, not a handout” to Puerto Rican communities ravaged by storms and in desperate need of power. By working closely with community leaders and government officials, del Sol empowered citizens to not only address their daily challenges, but to prepare for future ones. This vision was evident at several sites where locals came together to physically expand the microgrids’ design to power additional applications that demand energy consumption, further inspiring those around them.

Beyond power generation, the microgrids have become venues for community organization, education, commerce, and other day-to-day aspects for each respective region. The technological capabilities enabled citizens to become agents of change, fostering collaboration among some of the most disadvantaged communities in the United States at a time they needed support the most. This successful intersection of innovation and human emotion demonstrates that renewable energy can represent more than just day-to-day functionality, but is truly a source of inspiration that creates lasting impact.

“While the del Sol Foundation was initially formed to provide physical support to Puerto Ricans in need in the form of microgrids, the greater effect was that of community empowerment and lifting one another to create lasting impact and community growth,” said Blake Richetta, President at del Sol Foundation. “I have been absolutely amazed by the incredible resolve and fortitude of the Puerto Rican people who reside in these poor disadvantaged and often forgotten communities of the United States. Our microgrids were a mere vehicle while the people of this island, who blew me away with their strength and courage, were the true agents of change.”

Notable microgrids sponsored by the del Sol Foundation for Energy Security include:

A healthcare clinic in the Mameyes Abajo neighborhood of Utuado that provides services to 9,000 low-income people that is now completely off-grid. This facility has literally saved lives and would have been unable to do so without the power produced and stored by the renewable microgrid.
A building formerly used as a school in the Bartolo neighborhood of Lares, a remote part of Puerto Rico, that was converted into a housing facility for 14 families displaced by Hurricane Maria and forced to live as refugees. Powered by their microgrid, the converted housing facility has expanded into a community center and beacon of hope for its inhabitants, now including a kitchen /café, art classes, psychological counseling and even a farm to produce food for consumption.
A food shelter in Humacao that lacked the capabilities for simple functions, such as refrigeration of food and generation of clean water. The facility has now expanded beyond the original kitchen to become a large community center that provides art, counseling and a sense of community empowerment to the local people whose lives are still deeply affected by the aftermath of the hurricane.
S.U. Martrullas, a K-8 school in Orocovis, a remote part of Puerto Rico, was entirely without power following the devastating impact of Hurricane Maria. Now powered by a solar + storage microgrid, the school and its surrounding community are thriving as students have access to fresh food and clean water, as well as school computers powered entirely by renewable energy. Further, S.U. Martrullas plans to remain independent of the grid, even if PREPA service returns to the area.

“The impact of the del Sol microgrid has been very important for the community, students and people who work at our school,” said Albert Melendez Castillo, Director at the S.U. Matrullas school in Orocovis. “It has been very moving to see the students drink clean water, eat fresh food, and work on computers powered by renewable energy.”

“The reality is that without the support of del Sol, our project never would have been able to offer services,” said Francisco Valentin Soto, OTOAO Community organizer at the Primary Healthcare Clinic in Utuado. “Thanks to sonnen, we have already saved four lives and provided medical services to 9,000 low-income people from eight isolated communities that have been forgotten by the government. del Sol has given us the opportunity to bring hope to these communities affected by the worst natural disaster in our history.”

“The del Sol Foundation’s work in Puerto Rico embodies our ‘hand up, not handout’ mentality of leading through innovation and community organization,” said Adam Genter, Director of Operations for del Sol Foundation. “The citizens living on this island require and deserve the same support during crisis that we have here on the mainland, and the del Sol Foundation is honored to be one of the groups empowering communities to achieve a return to normalcy. Our microgrids have instilled hope among local citizens, community leaders and politicians, inspiring Puerto Ricans to rebuild for the future. The entire del Sol team believes Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane Maria will one day be looked back upon as an early example of community and energy resilience not only for the island, but for the rest of the world.”

The del Sol Foundation for Energy Security will continue installing and managing solar microgrids in regions where they are needed throughout Puerto Rico and beyond, empowering communities to rebuild and prepare themselves for a more resilient future. In the near future, del Sol anticipates launching the ‘Lighthouse Project,’ the most ambitious and proactive energy security project to date in Puerto Rico. ‘The Lighthouse’ will be designed to facilitate life saving services across the island, by way of providing power to microgrids, to over 250,000 people per day in the event of a hurricane.” del Sol’s ‘Lighthouse Project,’ made possible by a grassroots campaign driven by the faith-based community of Puerto Rico, seeks to create an energy security shield for residents of the island, fortifying it against future storms. To learn more about or to donate to del Sol’s signature Lighthouse Project, please visit www.delsolfoundation.org.

About del Sol Foundation for Energy Security.
The del Sol Foundation for Energy Security is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2017. The Foundation is an independent entity whose mission is to provide aid to individuals and entire communities in need, including those impacted by energy instability, who would benefit from clean, reliable and affordable energy. The Foundation’s work in Puerto Rico serves as an example of success in effectively engaging and empowering local community leaders, local citizens and local businesses with “a hand up, not a handout” and producing true resiliency in the face of natural disasters. http://www.delsolfoundation.org/.

SOURCE del Sol Foundation

10,000 Dancers Celebrate Latin Music And Dance At The 2018 Goya Foods New York International Salsa Congress

August 1, 2018

NEW YORK, Aug. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Goya Foods New York International Salsa Congress (#goyaNYISC2018), a multi-day Latin music and dance festival, will celebrate its 18^th anniversary with 10,000 dancers from around the world at The New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square from Thursday, August 30, 2018 to Sunday, September 2, 2018.

From novice to professional dancers, the congress brings together people of all cultures, ages and backgrounds to gain exposure to different styles of dance and to achieve a higher level of knowledge and expression for Latin dance and music. “We are thrilled to produce one of the most anticipated Latin dance events in the greatest city in the world,” said Vilma and Manny Villavicencio and Luis Guerrero, owners of the NYISC. “We are so proud to have the support of Goya Foods, as our title sponsor and as an iconic institution for Latinos, along with all of our sponsors and attendees who really help to establish a sense of community and passion for this genre of dance and music.”

New York University (NYU) will host “A Day of Dreams, Defiance, and Dance,” an exclusive walking tour of the history of Salsa, a workshop with musician Bobby Sanabria, and a panel discussion on Tuesday, August 28 from 2:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at NYU. The official kick-off party will be held at Iguanas NYC, located at 240 West 54^th Street at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, August 29, 2018. T-Mobile will host free dance parties at the T-Mobile flagship store in Times Square on Thursday 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The festivities will continue with over 60 multi-level group workshops and boot camps for styling, partner work, shines, and more taught each day by world-renowned dance instructors, followed by youth performance showcases on Saturday and Sunday afternoon, evening performances by world-renowned dance teams and couples, and LIVE music.

“We’re excited to celebrate our beautiful music and dance as title sponsors for the third year and to bring together thousands of fans from around the world right in the heart of New York City where Goya first began over 82 years ago,” said Rafael Toro, Director of Public Relations of Goya Foods.

This year’s band line up includes New Swing Sextet, a favorite among dancers celebrating over 50 years in music, the big band sound of Steven Oquendo Orchestra featuring singers Frankie Vazquez and Frankie Morales, a 21-piece orchestra playing mambo classics, and one of the most celebrated salsa vocalists of recent times, Tito Nieves with his powerful voice and his repertoire of hit songs. The party continues with social dancing every evening until 3:00 a.m. to DJs playing the best in Salsa, Bachata and Cha-Cha-Cha. The event will also feature the “Old Skool Room,” for dancers who frequented the famed NYC nightclubs from the 1950’s to present day. Celebrating its 7^th year, held at the NYISC, the Old Skool Room is dedicated to preserving the tradition of the New York, Puerto Rican and Cuban styles of dance and Latin music folklore with LIVE music by La Charanga Pacha.

To purchase tickets & for more information please visit, www.newyorksalsacongress.com Follow the NYISC on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities and press coverage, please contact [email protected] or at 845.659.6506.

Contact:
Natalie Maniscalco
Retro Media NYC
[email protected]
845.659.6506

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAHbpPV8FEo

SOURCE The Goya Foods New York International Salsa Congress

World Exclusive In HOLA! USA

July 31, 2018

NEW YORK, July 31, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Just two and a half weeks after giving birth, in-demand actress, businesswoman and philanthropist Eva Longoria opened the doors of her spectacular L.A. home to HOLA! USA. In our world exclusive, available to subscribers from August 2 and on newsstands from August 10, she introduces her adored firstborn son, Santiago Enrique, and the all of the details of his first days of life.

The little boy – whom she shares with her husband, media mogul Jose ‘Pepe’ Bastón – was born on July 19, giving new meaning to the life of one of Hollywood’s most powerful women.

In 13 pages full of gorgeous and tender photos, Eva tells us how she has organized her busy work schedule to keep up with her many projects – like her ABC TV series The Grand – and accommodate her new priority: motherhood.

The actress also reveals how her three stepchildren Natalia, Mariana and José have been involved from the very start with their little brother, including the important task of choosing his first name.

“In between taking stops to breastfeed her little one, (Eva) spoke to us about her pregnancy, how it feels to be a mother and what the future holds,” says HOLA! USA Editor-in-Chief Miguel Sirgado. “Also, with visible emotion, she shared how motherhood has impacted her social activism. All of this as she posed in front of the lens of talented photographer Bernado Doral, who made Eva’s return to work as stress-free as possible.”

Without a doubt, it’s the perfect way to celebrate HOLA! USA‘s second birthday, two years after Eva graced the cover of our inaugural issue. Back then she entrusted us with the exclusive details and photos of her and Pepe’s spectacular wedding which took place in Valle de Bravo, Mexico. Eva once again called on us to share details of her pregnancy, and now, we’re thrilled to publish the exclusive of her joy at becoming a first-time mother.

About ¡HOLA!
Founded in 1944, ¡HOLA! Magazine has become one of the world’s leaders in its field. Its long history publishing the best celebrity and royal photographs has made it an international icon for glamour, news accuracy and quality. The Spanish company HELLO! & ¡HOLA! Media, Inc. publishes 30 international editions in 10 languages across five continents. ¡HOLA! reaches 25 million readers worldwide, engages with 24 million unique monthly visitors, has over 13 million social media followers, and is seen by 21.5 million on its broadcast channel, ¡HOLA! TV.

Follow HOLA! USA
Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest: @usahola
Facebook.com/RevistaHolaUSA
Web: HOLA.com
Hashtag: #HOLAUSA

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/725228/Hola_Cover.jpg

SOURCE HOLA! USA

National Alliance for Hispanic Health Announces Support for CDC’s Anti-smoking Campaign on its Seventh Year Launch

July 31, 2018

WASHINGTON, July 31, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — “If you smoke, quitting is the single best thing you can do for your health and for your loved ones,” said Jane L. Delgado, Ph.D., M.S., President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance). “The Tips Campaign offers advice from former smokers and free support from 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-855-DÉJELO-YA) to help motivate smokers to quit, and prevent others from ever starting,” added Dr. Delgado.

The 2018 Tips from Former Smokers (Tips) Campaign’s 15 and 30-second ads are airing nationally on television, online, and in print advertisements through October 2018 to raise awareness of the dangers of smoking and offer tips on how to quit. Markets that have higher rates of cigarette smoking will have additional airings and advertisements for increased awareness. The ads feature former smokers and their stories that highlight serious smoking-related health conditions associated with cigarette use, promote the benefits of quitting for loved ones, and encourage smokers to call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-855-DÉJELO-YA) for free cessation support.

The 2018 Tips ads feature Brian, 63, an Air Force veteran, who had his first heart attack at age 35 while on assignment overseas. He quit smoking in 2009 and received a heart transplant in July 2012. In January 2017, Brian was diagnosed with lung cancer and had part of his lung removed; Christine, 55, who began smoking at age 16 and was diagnosed at age 44 with oral cancer, which eventually required doctors to remove half of her jaw; Sharon, 58, who began smoking at age 13 and at age 37 was diagnosed with stage IV throat cancer; and, Tiffany, age 40, who started smoking at 19, even though her mother died of lung cancer due to smoking. Tiffany quit smoking in 2011 because she wanted to be around to support her own teenage daughter.

The Alliance is promoting the 2018 Tips Campaign through its Nuestras Voces (Our Voices) Network, spearheaded by 11 regional partners around the country, which works to reduce tobacco use and cancer incidence in Hispanic communities. Activities to support these efforts include providing training on evidence-based tobacco and cancer initiatives, connecting individuals to cessation support, and conducting bilingual national media activities and social media outreach.

According to Dr. Delgado, “With tobacco companies set to spend over $9.1 billion in 2018 to addict new customers on their poisonous products, the Tips Campaign is a critical tool to make sure our communities know the real costs of this dangerous habit and how to get the help they need to quit.” For more information on the Tips Campaign, visit https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/index.html or call the Alliance’s Su Familia Helpline at 1-866-783-2645 for information on quitting smoking, talking to a loved one about smoking, or connecting to health services in local communities.

About the Nuestras Voces Network. Nuestras Voces is a national network of over 300 members working for a tobacco-free world and to eliminate disparities in cancer prevention and treatment services. You can be part of this effort led by the National Alliance for Hispanic Health! Join us at www.nuestrasvoces.org/join

About the National Alliance for Hispanic Health. The Alliance is the nation’s foremost science-based source of information and trusted advocate for the health of Hispanics in the United States with a mission to achieve the best health for all. For more information visit us www.healthyamericas.org.

SOURCE National Alliance for Hispanic Health

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