GAINESVILLE, Fla., Dec. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Lastinger Center for Learning at the University of Florida announced the selection of Scholastic as its strategic partner in New Worlds Reading—a program to ship free books, in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole, to over half a million K-5 students who are not yet reading on grade level across the state of Florida to advance literacy and a love of reading.
Through the program, books will begin shipping out in early December to arrive in mailboxes throughout the month.Eligible Florida public and charter school students in grades K-5 will be able to receive a book a month, up to nine books throughout the year, and households with multiple eligible children could be the recipients of a multitude of books—all geared to young readers’ specific interests. Importantly, the program also features literacy resources and activities for families to engage with books alongside their children to help build confidence, strengthen language interactions, and literacy skills.
The New Worlds Reading Initiative was created by House Speaker Chris Sprowls, who announced his intention during his designation speech to propose legislation that would close the achievement gap in reading. During his first legislative session leading the House, the New Worlds Reading Initiative was unveiled and received unanimous, bipartisan support, leading to Governor DeSantis signing the legislation into law in June of 2021. During his address, Speaker Sprowls explained that his motivation for the initiative was simple: “If a child can read, they can learn. If they can learn, then everything becomes possible.”
As the initiative continues to take shape and the month of December marks the first month that books will begin shipping to young readers, Sprowls said: “When schools, parents, private businesses, higher education and elected leaders all come together for the benefit of a child’s future – good things happen. Children need to be given the foundation of reading to build the foundation of their life. We are proud to see this worthy initiative take off and even more excited that children will have books in their hands to read with their parents, siblings and friends this month.”
“This is a partnership among so many stakeholders—communities, families, students, schools and the state of Florida,” said Dr. Philip Poekert, director of the Lastinger Center for Learning. “At Lastinger, we’re proud to play a part in it, and to partner with a trusted name like Scholastic to deliver on the promise of this program.”
“The New Worlds Reading Initiative is directly aligned with our mission at Scholastic, which is about helping children learn to read and love to read,” said Rose Else-Mitchell, president of Education Solutions at Scholastic. “We are honored to partner with the Lastinger Center and the State of Florida, in delivering millions of books directly to families across Florida and helping kids build the habits of reading by choosing books for their own at-home library.”
In the first shipment, books will be delivered to nearly 70,000 students currently enrolled in the program. In its first year, the program will include titles in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole, across a variety of topics and genres.
To participate in the program, parents or caregivers of eligible students should visit www.newworldsreading.com to learn about eligibility and enrollment in the program. Any parent or caregiver who has further questions about eligibility for the program should contact their child’s teacher.
The UF Lastinger Center was selected by the state to organize and launch the New Worlds Reading Initiative. In turn, Lastinger selected Scholastic to procure and distribute books through a formal proposal process. The program will continue to receive support from the Florida Department of Education. Contact new.worlds@coe.ufl.edu for information on making an individual or tax credit contribution.
About the UF Lastinger Center for Learning: Housed within the University of Florida College of Education, the Lastinger Center for Learning is an education innovation hub that develops solutions designed to improve outcomes across three education milestones: kindergarten readiness, reading proficiency by third grade, and algebra proficiency by ninth grade. The Lastinger Center’s innovations serve children and educators in every community in Florida and have expanded both nationally and globally. The remarkable scope of the Lastinger Center’s work and the impact of its collective efforts have drawn state, national, and international recognition and investment. Learn more at www.lastingercenter.com.
About Scholastic: For more than 100 years, Scholastic Corporation (NASDAQ: SCHL) has been encouraging the personal and intellectual growth of all children, beginning with literacy. Having earned a reputation as a trusted partner to educators and families, Scholastic is the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books, a leading provider of literacy curriculum, professional services, and classroom magazines, and a producer of educational and entertaining children’s media. The Company creates and distributes bestselling books and e-books, print and technology-based learning programs for pre-K to grade 12, and other products and services that support children’s learning and literacy, both in school and at home. With 15 international operations and exports to 165 countries, Scholastic makes quality, affordable books available to all children around the world through school-based book clubs and book fairs, classroom libraries, school and public libraries, retail, and online. Learn more at www.scholastic.com.
Celebrating 20 years of academic excellence in 2019
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The film and graphic design programs at The Los Angeles Film School are ranked among the top degree programs in the U.S. by Intelligent.com, a trusted resource for online/on-campus program rankings and higher education planning. The research identifies programs in the nation based on flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation.
Intelligent.com implemented a unique methodology that ranks each program on a scale from 0 to 100 across five categories. The scoring system compares each university according to program strength, student readiness, return on investment, cost, and student engagement. Researchers compared 704 programs from 2,900 universities and colleges across the United States.
According to Intelligent.com, studies show that obtaining a degree increases income substantially, degree holders earning 84% more than those with only high school diplomas or those without a completed GED. The percentage difference in earnings continues to grow with higher learning degrees such as masters, doctoral or professional degrees, with the unemployment rate decreasing to as much as 1.1% for those with a doctorate.
The Los Angeles Film School offers flexible distance learning that appeals to busy adults or hybrid models that include on-campus and online formats. Both the film program and graphic design program were listed in the top 20 rankings for 2022. The degree programs at The L.A. Film School help students enhance and develop advanced skills for a variety of in-demand positions.
The Los Angeles Film School is recognized for the following degree programs:
The Los Angeles Film School is an accredited higher education institution located in the heart of Hollywood. The school has served the community and its students since 1999 and offers entertainment-focused Bachelor of Science degrees in Animation, Audio Production,Digital Filmmaking, Entertainment Business,Film Production, Graphic Design, Media Communications and Writing for Film & TV; and Associate of Science degrees in Audio Production, Music Production, and Film. The campus facilities include the historic RCA Building at 6363 Sunset Boulevard and the studios at 6690 Sunset Boulevard, where students have access to industry-standard equipment, editing labs, dub stages and recording studios.
The school’s faculty of industry professionals have earned credits on major motion pictures, video games and music recordings. Numerous alumni have received awards at film festivals worldwide, engineered multi-platinum selling albums, and some credits include GRAMMY® and Oscar® nominations and wins. The school is a VA-approved institution and accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
For more information about The Los Angeles Film School, please visit: www.lafilm.edu or call 323.860.0789.
ABOUT INTELLIGENT.COM Intelligent.com provides unbiased research to help students make informed decisions about higher education programs. The website offers curated guides that include the best degree programs and information about financial aid, internships, and even study strategies. Intelligent.com is a trusted source among students and prospective students with comprehensive, user-friendly guides and hundreds of program rankings. To learn more, please visit https://www.intelligent.com/.
A new study from Danone North America finds that multicultural consumers are driving the plant-based movement.
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. and BROOMFIELD, Colo., Dec. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Danone North America, a purpose-driven company and a category leader in plant-based food and beverages with brands such as Silk® and So Delicious®, today released new research exploring the relationship between multicultural audiences and plant-based products. Understanding that food plays a defining role in multicultural consumers’ lives and is seen as a form of self-expression, Danone North America embarked on this research to learn from different multicultural communities about their interest in plant-based eating, how younger generations are adopting flexitarian lifestyles, what cultural stigmas they may experience, and how the industry can better reflect their culture in everything from marketing to innovation.
At the Table: The Multicultural Plant-Based Food Perspective, a survey of more than 4,000 adults in the U.S. including Asian Americans, Black/African Americans, and Hispanic/Latino communities, found that plant-based eating is on the rise among multicultural audiences, especially the younger millennial and Gen-Z populations. While the popularity of plant-based foods has exploded and multicultural audiences are a driving contributing force to the movement, this research also uncovered gaps in how much multicultural consumers can truly embrace plant-based diets as they feel that plant-based offerings are less attainable due to cultural stigmas and accessibility barriers.
“Plant-based eating has the potential to be a real beacon of healthy living, especially for diverse communities. To hear that multicultural audiences are more willing to add plant-based foods into their diets was personally inspiring and affirming to me, as my family and many friends have adopted flexitarian lifestyles over the last few years. With this research and the breadth of our product portfolio, the ability to help move Danone North America and the plant-based industry forward is one of the biggest reasons why I joined the company,” said John Starkey, President of Plant-Based Food & Beverage for Danone North America, “We’ve made a conscious effort to be more inclusive and reach underrepresented communities, particularly through our Silk and So Delicious brands, which have a long legacy in the plant-based space. Yet, there is still a lot of work to be done in understanding how different communities are experiencing plant-based food and beverages and how we can do more to engage and appeal to multicultural consumers, from our innovation choices and marketing efforts to our community impact work and sustainability strategies.”
Key findings and statistics from Danone North America’s At the Table: The Multicultural Plant-Based Food Perspective:
Multicultural Consumers Play a Significant Role in Driving the Plant-Based Movement
Multicultural audiences are more willing than the total population to add plant-based foods into their diets as a substitution for animal products, with younger millennials and Gen Z consumers leading the charge.
71% of Asian Americans, 55% of Black/African Americans and 61% of Hispanic/Latino respondents say they “strongly” or “somewhat agree” that they are open to substituting the current foods they eat with plant-based alternatives compared to less than half of total population respondents (49%).
Nearly 9 out 10 (84%) multicultural respondents say food is a form of self-expression, compared to 79% of Total Population. (Breakdown: 82% Hispanic/Latino, 80% Black/African American, and 91% Asian American.)
Nearly three quarters of multicultural respondents (73%) say they ‘strongly or somewhat agree’ that they try to be environmentally friendly with their food choices but sometimes don’t have the information they need.
Multicultural Audiences Report Multiple Barriers to Plant-Based Adoption
While multicultural audiences are making up an increasing share of the plant-based market, research revealed that overall, they feel less represented and less engaged by plant-based food brands.
More than half of (55%) respondents say their community and culture are “not that well” or “not at all” represented by plant-based food companies and brands including 58% of Hispanic/Latino, 52% of Asian Americans, and 60% African American/Black respondents. The numbers are even higher among in the Gen-X and Baby Boomer generations within these communities.
More than half of Hispanic/Latino (56%) and Black/African American (51%) respondents “strongly” or “somewhat agree” there is a stigma in their culture around people who eat plant-based foods.
Multicultural respondents feel some healthier or more nutritious foods are less attainable due to barriers of affordability and accessibility. 48% of Asian Americans, 42% of Hispanic/Latino and 40% Black/African Americans also say they see plant-based foods as more expensive.
At the Table: The Multicultural Plant-Based Food Perspective further highlighted that multicultural audiences believe plant-based eating is healthy and nutritious, better for the environment, and more ethical. Multicultural consumers are looking for more plant-based companies and brands to engage with in a deeper and more meaningful way, not only through marketing efforts, but also through ingredient choices, education, and sustainability work.
Danone North America is committed to listening to and learning from multicultural consumers, and it shares this research with the industry in hopes of driving more inclusivity for this growing audience within the plant-based category. Armed with this research, Danone North America seeks to continue to understand the core values and drivers for multicultural consumers to inspire more meaningful relationships. Moving into 2022, the company is looking to take further action, expanding its inclusive marketing and customer efforts through new internal and external partnerships which range from sales and marketing to nutrition, innovation and more.
“At Danone North America, we believe making progress toward a more inclusive, just, and diverse culture is an essential part of using our business as a force for good. Our commitments to Inclusive Diversity are put into action through a strategy that focuses on four major areas – our people, the marketplace, community engagement and advocacy, for a number of topics that demonstrate our support for racial equity and social justice,” said Terrance Irizarry, Head of Inclusive Diversity for Danone North America. “Marketing efforts for our portfolio should reflect the diversity of our consumers and society—and also reach those consumers meaningfully. Conducting this important research on behalf of our plant-based portfolio is a huge step forward in listening, learning and ultimately taking action. It’s also part of our larger journey and work toward enhancing the overall diversity in our content and our partnerships with diverse suppliers in the industry.”
While the company continues to learn and refine its efforts of inclusivity, Danone North America is proud of the initiatives it has taken to meaningfully create change by better supporting, reflecting and including diverse communities. For example, Silk and So Delicious have focused on diverse representation within its talent pool and influencer marketing efforts, provided financial support for key African American and Asian American foundations, and advocate for social and economic empowerment of their farming partners across the supply chain, leading with coconut farmers in Southeast Asia.
Danone North America is committed to making plant-based options available and accessible for all, in line with its purpose to bring health through food to as many people as possible. For more information on the company and its plant-based food and beverage products, please visit www.danonenorthamerica.com.
Survey Methodology
In partnership with Zeno Group, Danone North America fielded this online survey of 4,027 adults in the US between April 27 and May 19, 2021. The margin of error is +/- 3 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.
About Danone North America
Danone North America is a purpose-driven company and an industry leader in the food and beverage category. As a Certified B Corporation®, Danone North America is committed to the creation of both economic and social value, while nurturing natural ecosystems through sustainable agriculture. Our strong portfolio of brands includes: Activia®, DanActive®, Danimals®, Dannon®, evian®, Happy Family® Organics, Honest to Goodness®, Horizon® Organic, International Delight®, Light + Fit®, Oikos®, Silk®, So Delicious® Dairy Free, STōK™, Two Good®, Wallaby® Organic and YoCrunch®. With more than 6,000 employees and 16 production locations across the U.S. and Canada, Danone North America’s mission is to bring health through food to as many people as possible. For more information, visit www.danonenorthamerica.com. For more information on Danone North America’s B Corp™ status, visit: https://bcorporation.net/directory/danone-north-america.
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The following notice is being issued by the Court approved Class Administrator and has been authorized by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, in McMorrow et al. v. Mondelēz International, Inc., Case No. 17-cv-2327-BAS-JLB.
A proposed settlement has been reached against Mondelēz Global LLC (“MDLZ”) alleging that certain health and wellness representations on belVita Breakfast products were misleading in light of their high added sugar content, or otherwise unlawful. MDLZ denies the allegations.
This is only a summary of the key Settlement terms. A full copy of the Settlement Agreement and Class Notice is available at www.BreakfastBiscuitClaims.com, or by calling 1-855-611-0641.
Who is Included?
The Settlement Class includes all persons in the United States who, between November 16, 2013 and November 17, 2021 (the “Class Period”), purchased in the United States, for household use and not for resale or distribution, certain belVita Crunchy Biscuits, belVita Soft Baked Biscuits, belVita Bites, or belVita Sandwiches products. See the Settlement Website, www.BreakfastBiscuitClaims.com, for the specific products included in the Settlement.
What Does the Settlement Provide?
The proposed settlement will provide the Class with $8,000,000 in monetary benefits (the “Settlement Fund”); and with injunctive relief in the form of labeling changes MDLZ has agreed to make.
Who Can Receive a Payment?
Class Members who timely submit a valid approved claim are entitled to compensation. Each timely, valid claimant will receive a payment based on the type and estimated amount of Class Products purchased during the Class Period. The amount of the Cash Award any individual receives will depend on both the number of claims made, and each claimant’s purchase history.
Claim Forms and more information about the claims process are available on the Settlement Website, www.BreakfastBiscuitClaims.com. The deadline for submitting a claim is February 9, 2022.
What are Class Members’ Other Options?
Class Members may opt out of this Settlement. A Class Member who opts out will retain rights to sue MDLZ separately, but will not be eligible to receive any compensation under the Settlement. To opt out, a Class Member must submit an Opt-Out Form on the Settlement Website, www.BreakfastBiscuitClaims.com. Alternatively, Opt-Out Forms can be downloaded, filled out, and mailed to the Class Administrator at: belVita Class Administrator, PO Box 5125, Baton Rouge, LA 70821. Opt-Out Forms must be submitted online or postmarked on or before February 9, 2022.
Class Members may also object to any part of this Settlement by mailing an Objection to the Class Administrator at: belVita Class Administrator, PO Box 5125, Baton Rouge, LA 70821. Alternatively, Class Members may file an Objection with the Court. Further details regarding the procedures for objecting are available at www.BreakfastBiscuitClaims.com. Objections must bepostmarked or filed on or before February 9, 2022.
Has the Court Approved the Settlement?
The Court has not yet approved the Settlement, but has set a Final Approval Hearing for April 4,2022, to determine whether the Settlement is fair, reasonable, and adequate for the Class. The Court will also consider during that hearing whether and in what amount to award attorneys’ fees and expenses to Class Counsel, and service awards to the Class Representatives, which shall come from the Settlement Fund, along with Notice and Administration expenses currently estimated at $ 3,261,967. Prior to making that determination, the Court will set a deadline for Class Counsel to make a motion, the motion will be posted on the Settlement Website, www.BreakfastBiscuitClaims.com, and Class Members will have an opportunity to respond and object.
As described further on the Settlement Website, Class Counsel intend to seek an award of fees of up to one-third of the Settlement Fund, and reimbursement of case expenses, along with incentive awards for Class Representatives each for Patrick McMorrow, Marco Ohlin, and Melody DiGregorio.
You do not need to appear at the Final Approval Hearing, but you may come at your own expense. The Court has appointed Fitzgerald Joseph LLP as Class Counsel. The lawyers representing you will be paid, only with the Court’s approval, from the Settlement Fund. If you want to be represented by your own lawyer, you may hire one at your own expense. For more information, or to view the motion for attorneys’ fees, expenses, and service awards after it is filed on or before January 26, 2022, please visit the Settlement Website, www.BreakfastBiscuitClaims.com.
PLEASE DO NOT CALL OR WRITE THE COURT FOR INFORMATION OR ADVICE.
Debt.com is the consumer website where people can find help with credit card debt, student loan debt, tax debt, credit repair, bankruptcy, and more. Debt.com works with vetted and certified providers that give the best advice and solutions for consumers ‘when life happens.’
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Dec. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Every year, 1 in 20 Americans are the victims of identity theft, making it the most common crime in the country.
Those targeted are often left with enduring costs according to a new Debt.com poll conducted for December’s National Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month. The study shows 4 out of 10 had negative impacts to their credit scores. A lower credit score can raise the cost of everything from insurance to loans and even hinder new employment opportunities.
“With almost half of our respondents saying thieves targeted their credit cards, you can bet that will be the most popular form of identity theft through the end of the year,” says Debt.com president Don Silvestri. “We’re emerging from the pandemic with the urge to splurge this holiday season. This makes December the perfect time to promote identity theft awareness.”
For many, factoring in the cost of identity theft can break the bank. The survey revealed the cost of identity theft:
18.5% lost $0 – $50
22% lost $50 – $500
21% lost $500 – $1,000
15% lost $1,000 – $2,500
11% lost $2,500 – $5,500
5% lost $5,500 to $7,000 or more
“We’ve all heard horror stories of people losing everything to these thieves, so losses in the hundreds of dollars is progress,” Silvestri says. “Part of that is lenders and creditors becoming much quicker to notice fraud so they can cut it off before it gets out of hand, but some respondents still had to actually take on debt to fix the outcome of the fraud.” Percentages of people who had to take on debt due to identity theft:
17% took up to $250 in debt
17% took between $250–$500
14% took on $500 or more
The most common form of identity theft was with credit cards at 46%, exceeding all other forms combined. The other forms of fraud reported:
Bank fraud – 19%
Phone fraud – 7%
Loan fraud – 7%
Phishing scams – 7%
Tax fraud – 5
“Sixty-four percent of respondents use a credit monitoring service, either free or paid, but sadly there’s no single solution to such a huge problem,” Silvestri says. “It has to be a coordinated effort from everyone.”
Debt.com is promoting National Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month by offering online resources, from how to recognize signs of identity theft, how to protect yourself from becoming a victim to the seven steps to recover from it if you do become one. To see all of the survey responses visit Debt.com.
About: Debt.com is the consumer website where people can find help with credit card debt, student loan debt, tax debt, credit repair, bankruptcy, and more. Debt.com works with vetted and certified providers that give the best advice and solutions for consumers ‘when life happens.’
*Percentages are rounded up to the nearest whole number and might not total 100 percent.
DALLAS, Dec. 6, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Chuck E. Cheese, the global family entertainment brand, continues to drive international expansion and has successfully signed development agreements in three new countries across South America and in the Middle East. This adds to the rapid ongoing international expansion of the brand already announced in new regions like Egypt, Morocco, Romania and Kuwait, and sets Chuck E. Cheese on track to have over 100 international locations by 2022.
“Investors and entrepreneurs continue to recognize Chuck E. Cheese as a high ROI opportunity within their local markets,” says Arun Barnes, COO & SVP of international development for CEC Entertainment. “With a unique business model that is unmatched in the Family Entertainment Center (FEC) landscape, we are the brand that can have an immediate impact in almost any country around the globe, while providing a reliable cash flow for franchise partners who have a passion for family entertainment.”
One of the most effective avenues of growth is through existing franchisees who see success in their own regions, such as franchise partner Joanna Rostant of Yay! Entertainment in Trinidad & Tobago who has signed to expand the brand through sub franchising into Guyana and Suriname. The first site at Suriname is under construction and scheduled to open in the first half of 2022.
Joanna Rostant stated, “We are thrilled to partner through a sub franchise arrangement with Sasja Lie Pauw Sam and his team at Blue Falcon N.V. to bring the joy of Chuck E. Cheese to families in Suriname. We note with confidence Suriname’s recent discovery of substantial volumes of hydrocarbons, and in keeping with the recent IMF forecasts, believe that Suriname will experience strong positive economic growth in the next couple of years. For these and other socio-economic reasons, we believe that the world’s leading family entertainment brand will be thoroughly enjoyed by children and families in Suriname.”
“It makes sense for Caribbean markets, and we are thrilled that Joanna’s strong operating model has positioned her company well to achieve and lead this exciting expansion. We look forward to her success in Suriname, and later in Guyana,” added Arun Barnes.
In addition to the Caribbean, Chuck E. Cheese has also partnered with new franchise partners, Benchmark Hospitality Services, to expand new locations across Qatar throughout the next few years.
“Working with the CEC International team is a pleasure,” said Yanni Jouaneh, franchise owner and CEO of Benchmark Hospitality Services. “They have great systems and processes to support international franchising, and our business feasibility survey of the brand showcased a unique opportunity to bring in a highly profitable brand into Qatar’s exciting market landscape. There is no other brand that offers a great mix of games, food, entertainment and birthday parties. Qatari families with kids will soon experience the joy of Chuck E. Cheese nearer to their home.”
For franchising interests or to learn more about how to bring the joy and profits of Chuck E. Cheese to your market, please visit the all-new international franchising website where you can discover all of the latest news and exciting expansion plans.
About CEC Entertainment, Inc.
CEC Entertainment is the nationally recognized leader in family entertainment and dining with its Chuck E. Cheese, Peter Piper Pizza and, delivery only, Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings brands. As the place where a million happy birthdays are celebrated every year, Chuck E. Cheese’s goal is to create positive, lifelong memories for families through entertainment, food and play. Committed to providing a fun, safe environment, Chuck E. Cheese helps protect families through industry-leading programs such as Kid Check®. As a strong advocate for its local communities, Chuck E. Cheese has donated more than $19 million to schools through its fundraising programs. The Company and its franchisees operate a system of nearly 600 Chuck E. Cheese and 120 Peter Piper Pizza venues, with locations in 47 states and 17 foreign countries and territories. For more information, visit our website or connect with us on social media.
Restyled and adventure-ready, the 2022 Honda Passport begins arriving at dealerships this winter with a rugged new exterior design that better reflects its true off-road capabilities and more standard features than ever before. Inspired by the spirit of exploration, the first-ever Passport TrailSport takes Passport's new rugged styling even further.
– New rugged styling matches Passport’s true off-road capabilities
– New Passport TrailSport amps up emotion and adventure, further advancing new rugged design direction
– As new halo for Honda light trucks, TrailSport further highlights the off-road capability, versatility and durability long engineered into Honda light trucks
TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 6, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Restyled and adventure-ready, the 2022 Honda Passport begins arriving at dealerships this winter with a rugged new exterior design that better reflects its true off-road capabilities and more standard features than ever before. Inspired by the spirit of exploration, the first-ever Passport TrailSport takes Passport’s new rugged styling even further.
Reflecting customer demand, the Passport EX-L is now the new entry point for Honda’s largest 5-passenger SUV. Packed with standard equipment, such as leather seating, one-touch power moonroof and 20-inch alloy wheels, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for Passport EX-L with two-wheel drive is $37,870 (not including destination and optional paint charges). The new Passport TrailSport features standard torque-vectoring i-VTM4® all-wheel drive, rugged-design tires, unique styling touches, navigation system, roof rails and more, with an MSRP of $42,470.
“Honda has offered weekend adventurers durable and capable SUVs for more than two decades and our newest Passport takes this to a new level,” said Michael Kistemaker, assistant vice president of Honda National Sales at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The new Passport and Passport TrailSport don’t just look rugged, they’re ready, willing and able to get dirty tackling trails.”
2022 Passport Pricing & EPA Ratings
Trim
MSRP[i]
MSRP Plus $1,225 Destination Charge[ii]
EPA Mileage Rating[iii] City/Hwy/Combined
EX-L (2WD)
$37,870
$39,095
20 / 25 / 22
EX-L (AWD)
$39,970
$41,195
19 / 24 / 21
TrailSport (AWD)
$42,470
$43,695
19 / 24 / 21
Elite (AWD)
$45,430
$46,665
19 / 24 / 21
Bolder Design Reflects Rugged Capabilities All-new from the A-pillars forward, Passport’s bold design includes a sculpted hood with a pronounced power bulge, squared-off nose and upright grille, and revised front fenders. Around back, a redesigned, more aggressive rear bumper features cutouts for larger twin exhaust outlets, plus a tow hitch cover and skid garnish design that matches the more rugged front-end styling. Passport’s tough new look better reflects the rugged capabilities of its strong unibody construction, independent front and rear suspension, standard 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, 9-speed automatic transmission, and available class-leading i-VTM4® torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system.
The exceptional off-road traction management of Honda’s i-VTM4® system expands Passport’s off-road ability well beyond its crossover-based competition. In addition, Passport’s four-mode Intelligent Traction Management allows drivers to customize the i-VTM4® system for different terrains, including sand, snow, mud, and paved roads. With 8.1-inches of ground clearance (with AWD), Passport can navigate tough trails and its 5,000-pound towing capacity (with AWD, with additional equipment) allows it to pull a large camper trailer or off-road toys.
Passport’s strong unibody construction and independent front and rear suspension deliver class-leading on-road ride comfort and dynamics. Sharp, precise steering gives Passport a sporty driving character in any situation.
In addition to the features mentioned above, Passport EX-L comes equipped with a power tailgate with remote, blind spot information (BSI), and front and rear parking sensors. Inside, for a sportier, off-road character, Passport EX-L grades now feature high-contrast stitching on standard perforated leather seats, and all trims have new gray instrument cluster illumination and white gauge needles.
The 2022 Passport’s expanded list of standard features also includes power adjustable heated front seats, an 8-inch Display Audio system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, wireless smartphone charging, and remote engine start.
Topping the lineup, the well-equipped Passport Elite features standard i-VTM4® all-wheel drive, unique 20-inch alloy wheels, a hands-free access power tailgate, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver assistive technologies is standard on every Passport. On Passport, Honda Sensing® includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). New for all 2022 Passport grades is a rear seat reminder and rear seatbelt reminder as standard equipment.
Passport TrailSport Passport TrailSport features standard i-VTM4® all-wheel drive, and a 10mm increase in track width to improve stance and stability. Mounted on machined 18-inch wheels, the unique design of its 245/60R18 tires includes sidewall tread for a more rugged look. TrailSport is further distinguished by its unique grille treatment, and more aggressive front and rear bumpers that include skid plate designs prominently painted silver.
Even the design of the new TrailSport logo, inspired by nature’s beauty and the spirit of exploration, expresses the exhilaration of outdoor adventure. Orange TrailSport badges grace its grille and tailgate, while the Passport and AWD badges are painted gloss black instead of the chrome used on the rest of the lineup.
In the cabin, TrailSport stands out with orange contrast stitching on the steering wheel, door panels and seats, amber interior lighting, and the TrailSport logo embroidered on the front seat head restraints and molded into the rubber floor mats. TrailSport also features power folding mirrors for narrow trails, and heated windshield wiper parking area to keep them from getting stuck in frigid conditions.
Complete details on the 2022 Honda Passport, including a full list of specs and features, are available on the Honda Passport pages on HondaNews.com.
About Honda Honda offers a full line of clean, safe, fun and connected vehicles sold through more than 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. Honda has the highest fleet average fuel economy and lowest CO2 emissions of any major full-line automaker in America, according to the latest data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Honda lineup includes the Civic, Insight, and Accord passenger cars, along with the HR-V, CR-V, Passport and Pilot sport utility vehicles, the Ridgeline pickup and the Odyssey minivan. Honda’s electrified vehicle lineup includes the Accord Hybrid, CR-V Hybrid and Insight hybrid-electric sedan.
Honda has been producing automobiles in America for 39 years and currently operates 18 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2020, more than 95 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.
[ii] MSRP plus $1,225 destination charge, excluding tax, license, registration, options and premium colors. Dealer prices may vary.
[iii] Based on 2022 EPA mileage ratings; Use for comparison purposes only; your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
RICHLAND, Wash., Dec. 7, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Christensen, Inc., is thrilled to announce the acquisition of Yorkston Oil Co., a prominent fuel and lubricant distributor and CFN cardlock marketer serving customers in Northwestern, Washington. Christensen Inc. is one of the largest distributors of fuels, lubricants, and propane on the West Coast, and is excited to be expanding their reach.
Since 1939, Yorkston Oil Co., has owned and operated Commercial Fuel Network (CFN) sites, distributed fuel to branded retail sites, and served numerous independent and commercial accounts with heating fuels, industrial & motor oils, marine fuels, and on- and off-road fuels.
Yorkston Oil Co. is a family owned, third generation company. It was important to Yorkston Oil Co. leadership to find a partner who exemplified their values and would continue to serve their customers with the same family first approach. Yorkston Oil Co. found that partner in Christensen, another family-owned and operated company with the capability to provide an even wider array of products and services.
“This acquisition represents a strategic investment that supports our planned growth in renewable fuels, retail fuel, lubricants, and other industrial fluids,” said Tony Christensen, President and CEO of Christensen Inc. “Through extending our geographical reach, this acquisition enhances our ability to deliver economically and environmentally sustainable solutions to customers in Northwestern, WA and surrounding states.”
This acquisition is one of 3 strategic moves executed by Christensen in 2021. Christensen has acquired two new facilities in Seattle, WA, and Portland, OR to further support their growth plans.
PORTLAND, OR FACILITY Includes a 50,000 square foot warehouse, rail, and 30 bulk storage tanks.
SEATTLE, WA FACILITY Includes 4-acres, a 50,000 square foot warehouse, and close proximity to loading terminals.
Christensen’s focus is to create real value for each of their Retail Fuel, Commercial, Industrial, and Fleet Card customers. Christensen offers products and services that simplify the way fuels, lubricants, and propane are ordered, delivered, and managed. They provide industry expertise and technology-driven tools that allow customers to spend time on the important things in life.
Christensen continues to be an industry leader in the lubricant, fuel, and reliability services industry. Christensen’s growth will only accelerate with their continued investment in technology, and expansion into long-term, sustainable growth markets.
Christensen is honored to continue the Yorkston Oil Co. legacy, and to continue providing dependable service to the loyal customers of Northwestern, Washington.
ABOUT CHRISTENSEN, INC.
Founded in 1935, Christensen is family-owned and operated with headquarters in Richland, Washington employing over 500 people across the Pacific Northwest and nationwide.
Built on over 80 years of industry experience and the latest technology, Christensen is revolutionizing the way fuels, lubricants, and propane are ordered, delivered, and managed. For the past 10 years, the Christensen Company has grown 8x faster than the industry average and has emerged as a differentiated market leader. As one of the largest distributors of fuels, lubricants, and propane on the West Coast, Christensen offers an innovative suite of products and services designed to create real value for each of the more than 10,000 Retail Fuel, Commercial, Industrial, and Fleet Card customers. In the years ahead, Christensen’s growth will accelerate, as they intensify their focus on building a sustainable legacy – focusing on being socially sustainable, economically sustainable, and environmentally sustainable.
To learn more, visit www.christensenusa.comand find Christensen on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
WORCESTER, Mass., Dec. 7, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Victims of the largest pyramid scheme in United States history received justice yesterday when a United States District Court allowed their claims against several of the largest banks in the world and other financial service providers to proceed. Robert Bonsignore, Lead Counsel for the victims, stated “The Court’s ruling allowing the victim’s claims to go forward was a very long, and very hard-fought victory.”
Bonsignore further stated that “TelexFree fleeced over a million victims of over $4 billion dollars in less than four years.” “This was not accomplished in a vacuum. TelexFree was a 100 percent financial fraud driven criminal enterprise that set off red flags and alerts to its Electronic Banking System sponsors and facilitators. By its own admission, without access to the Electronic Banking System, TelexFree would have collapsed and been forced to close its doors within three months.”
Bonsignore praised the court and the decision stating “Judge Timothy Hillman was required to go through massive amounts of briefing and evidence to dissect this highly complex, international financial fraud. The Court’s opinion was well-reasoned and factually supported.” The order allows the claims against Bank of America, TD Bank, PNC Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers and various payment processing companies to be prosecuted.
TelexFree held itself out as an internet phone service company. TelexFree has been found by the Court to be a multi-billion-dollar, international Pyramid Scheme. The Marlborough, Massachusetts based Pyramid Scheme raised its first $2 Billion dollars in only two years before being shuttered by Brazilian authorities. TelexFree then focused its marketing efforts on United States based victims, raking in another $2 billion dollars before it was raided and shuttered by the FBI and Homeland Security.
TelexFree’s founders lived a lavish lifestyle before the scheme unraveled, buying a Brazilian soccer team, mansions, and boats. James Merrill, one TelexFree’s founders was sentenced to six years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of wire fraud conspiracy and eight counts of wire fraud. Carlos Wanzeler another TelexFree principal fled the country in possession of tens of millions of dollars, leaving his wife and child behind. The whereabouts of Carlos Costa, the third TelexFree Founder, remains unknown.
The victims have previously reached a settlement with Fidelity Bank of approximately $23 Million dollars.
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 7, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — As Mazda’s flagship three-row midsize crossover SUV, the CX-9 has been instrumental in helping introduce many of the premium values Mazda vehicles embody. The current generation CX-9 debuted the Skayctiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine and the top-trim level Signature model for the brand. And now, for 2022, the midsize crossover has standard i-Activ AWD, which helps enhance the confident performance that family’s value during their daily drives. Mazda North American Operations today announces the 2022 Mazda CX-9 will arrive in dealerships this winter.
CX-9 SPORT
As standard, all CX-9 models are powered by the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual and sport modes. The CX-9 delivers an impressive 250 horsepower and a robust 320 lb-ft of torque with premium 93 octane fuel, and 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular 87 octane fuel.
New for 2022, CX-9 now has standard i-Activ AWD, which enhances driving dynamics, handling, and vehicle control, allowing the driver to enjoy the experience on most terrains and conditions. Mazda’s unique i-Activ AWD system continuously monitors weight distribution and shifts power to the appropriate wheels, providing drivers a near instant response to inputs. In addition, all CX-9 models are equipped with G-Vectoring Control Plus and Off-Road Traction Assist.
Helping keep the driver and passengers safe, CX-9 Sport is well-equipped with an array of standard i-Activsense safety features such as Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Smart Brake Support with collision warning, Advanced Smart City Brake Support with pedestrian detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist.
As standard, the CX-9 Sport is a seven-passenger crossover SUV with slide and tilt bench style seating for the second row, which include an armrest with cup holders. Every CX-9 model includes complimentary Mazda Connected Services for three years, providing the ability to monitor and control the state of the vehicle remotely by logging into the MyMazda app, and offering in-car Wi-Fi hotspot2 for three-months or 2GB trial, whichever comes first. A focal point of the well-appointed interior is the 10.25″ full-color center display with the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system that can be controlled with the multi-function commander knob and is integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other standard features include heated front seats, push button start, remote keyless entry system, leather-wrapped shifter and steering wheel with mounted audio, Bluetooth, and cruise control buttons, dual front USB inputs, six-speaker sound system, three-zone automatic climate control, black cloth seats with eight-way power driver’s seat and lumbar support, four-way manual adjustable passenger seat, electronic parking brake, rearview camera, and rear side and liftgate window privacy glass.
The exterior of the CX-9 Sport showcases gray metallic 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, bright finish front grille, automatic on/off LED headlights with High Beam Control, heated door mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, rear roof spoiler, roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
CX-9 TOURING
The CX-9 Touring focuses on upgrades to the seating with black or sand color leather first and second-row seats, six-way power passenger’s seat, and two USB charging ports in the second row. The second-row slide and tilt function is also updated for this model to allow for easier access to the third row. Other additions include power liftgate, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, and auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink.
TOURING PREMIUM PACKAGE
The optional Touring Premium package can be equipped only on CX-9 Touring models to expand the features occupants will enjoy. With this package, the second-row seating configuration can be selected as either the three-seating capacity bench seating or two-seating capacity captain’s chairs with armrest and center pass through. Other features included in this package are the Bose 12-speaker premium audio, wireless phone charger, power moonroof, front and rear parking sensors, two third-row USB charging ports, LED fog lights, second-row retractable window sunshade, and SiriusXM satellite radio with three-month trial subscription.
CX-9 TOURING PLUS
The new CX-9 Touring Plus raise the value and styling that customers will appreciate in the mid-size crossover’s model lineup. This model includes all the features in the CX-9 Touring with the Touring Premium package while adding ventilated front seats, power driver’s seat with memory, black metallic 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels, gloss black front grille, aluminum roof rails, and a frameless rearview mirror.
CX-9 CARBON EDITION
Following its continued success, the CX-9 Carbon Edition returns for the 2022 model year as a six-passenger mid-size crossover with heated second-row captain’s chairs with armrest and center pass through. Carbon Edition models can be identified by Polymetal Gray exterior paint color that is accentuated by gloss black automatic power-folding door mirrors and chrome accents on the lower molding. Inside, CX-9 Carbon Edition features red leather seats with aluminum interior trim, LED door pocket illumination, LED door pull handles, overhead LED illumination, and black metallic accents on the dash, door panels, and handle bezels. In addition to the standard features in the Touring model, CX-9 Carbon Edition adds a heated steering wheel with paddle shifters, hands-free power liftgate, seven-inch LCD multi-information gauge display, Rear Smart City Brake Support, Adaptive Front-Lighting System, and windshield wiper de-icer.
CX-9 GRAND TOURING
The CX-9 Grand Touring builds off the features in the Touring model, plus combines those in the Carbon Edition, and adds silver metallic 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels and body-color automatic power-folder door mirrors. CX-9 Grand Touring has the option to configure the heated second-row seats as either bench seating or captain’s chairs with armrest and center pass through with a choice between black or sand color leather first and second-row seats. Other features include 360° View Monitor, Active Driving Display with Traffic Sign Recognition, Mazda Navigation, and three-year SiriusXM Traffic & Travel Link subscription that provides current information for traffic, weather, sports scores, fuel prices, and nearby parking.
CX-9 SIGNATURE
As the highest model offering, CX-9 Signature expands on the features in the Grand Touring and elevates the experience with offerings exclusive to the Signature model. The heated second-row captain’s chairs provide a first-class feel with a center console with armrest storage compartment like in the first row, which provide convenient access to the heated seat buttons and cupholders. The premium interior includes Nappa leather first and second-row seats, which is available in either Deep Chestnut or Parchment. The first and second-row seats have a unique quilting and piping that add to the elegance of the CX-9 Signature. Other styling details include Santos Rosewood interior trim, patterned aluminum on the dash and door handle bezels, and unique stitching on the steering wheel. The exterior upgrades include 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a brilliant silver finish, a titanium gray metallic finished front grille with LED lighting accent, larger dual exhaust pipes, and a Signature badge affixed to the liftgate to complete the masterpiece.
MSRP3 FOR THE 2022 MAZDA CX-9 IS AS FOLLOWS:
Model
i-Activ All-Wheel Drive
CX-9 Sport
$35,280
CX-9 Touring
$37,430
• Touring Premium Package
$2,080
CX-9 Touring Plus
$41,660
CX-9 Carbon Edition
$43,580
CX-9 Grand Touring
$44,440
CX-9 Signature
$47,210
PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:
Soul Red Crystal Metallic
$595
Machine Gray Metallic
$595
Snowflake White Pearl Mica
$395
Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through approximately 780 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com/Newsroom.
LIBERTY, N.C., Dec. 6, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina and Mayor Filmore York of Liberty, North Carolina, joined Toyota Motor North America’s leaders to announce Greensboro-Randolph Megasite has been chosen as the location for Toyota’s new $1.29 billion automotive battery manufacturing plant, to be named, Toyota Battery Manufacturing, North Carolina (TBMNC).
When it comes online in 2025, TBMNC will have four production lines, each capable of delivering enough lithium-ion batteries for 200,000 vehicles—with the intention to expand to at least six production lines for a combined total of up to 1.2 million vehicles per year.
The $1.29 billion investment made by Toyota and Toyota Tsusho is partially funded from a total investment of approximately $3.4 billion previously announced on October 18, and is expected to create 1,750 new American jobs.
“The future of mobility is electrification and the Greensboro-Randolph Megasite is the ideal location to make that future a reality,” said Ted Ogawa, CEO of Toyota Motor North America. “North Carolina offers the right conditions for this investment, including the infrastructure, high-quality education system, access to a diverse and skilled workforce, and a welcoming environment for doing business. Today marks the beginning of a mutually beneficial partnership with the Tar Heel state as we embark on our journey to achieve carbon neutrality and provide mobility for all.”
“I’m glad that Toyota Battery Manufacturing has chosen to call North Carolina home,” said Governor Cooper. “This investment in our state is a testament to our world class workforce and growing economy. North Carolina is working hard every day toward a clean energy future and projects like this will help us get there.”
In determining the location for the new plant, Toyota was interested in renewable energy availability as well as support from local stakeholders, including governments, utilities, partners, and others. Candidates for the site were narrowed down based on these requirements and Greensboro-Randolph Megasite met and exceeded these needs with:
– An extensive and well-maintained highway system for overland logistics – Four international airports and two seaports – Onsite rail – An outstanding, diverse workforce – Renewable energy availability – World-renowned education system – Strong government partnership at both the state and local levels
In addition, as the company continues its efforts to reach carbon neutrality for its vehicles and operations by 2050, Toyota is committed to using 100% renewable energy at this new facility to produce the batteries.
New Company Overview
Company Name
Toyota Battery Manufacturing, North Carolina
Established
November 2021
Representative
Norm Bafunno (interim)
Shareholders
Toyota (90%) and Toyota Tsusho (10%)
No. of Employees
1,750 (planned)
Capital
$468M (excluding equipment costs)
Business Areas
Automotive battery manufacturing for electrified vehicles
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota has created a tremendous value chain and directly employs more than 36,000 in the U.S. The company has contributed world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 30 million cars and trucks at our 9 manufacturing plants, 10 including our joint venture in Alabama that began production in September 2021.
To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Nov. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The government of Jamaica is undertaking ambitious development of its digital services sector, according to Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Audley Shaw, with a view to generate some 70,000 Digital service jobs within the next five years.
Speaking the recent Caribbean Future Summit 2021, Shaw acknowledged that Jamaica has a vastly successful outsourcing sector, but he explained that the nation is seeking to shift some of that success over into its burgeoning digital services sector.
“The outsourcing sector, that is the business process outsourcing sector, directly employs over 44,000 agents and generates revenue estimated at over US$700 million annually,” the minister noted.
“Jamaica’s competitiveness is solidified on the basis that it is the most scalable location in the Caribbean, with a relatively large available labour force and established ecosystem supported by the government and private sector groups.
“We have a multisectoral approach to improving our technological infrastructure. In 2021, the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce outlined the framework for a national five-year global digital services strategy to expand the industry. The strategy is expected to have a significant impact on employment, providing 70,000 jobs by 2025.”
Shaw added, “Investment in the global digital services sector continues to grow with over 70 operators in the market at this time.”
WORKFORCE SHIFT
Minister Shaw noted that the current ratio between business process outsourcing jobs and knowledge process outsourcing jobs is approximately 80/20.
However, he said the government wants to improve that ratio to 60/40, thereby “expanding and making further inroads into higher-technology-oriented jobs in the digital services sector”.
Several training programmes are also in the works, Shaw said, “with a vision to facilitate promotion of the sector and to enable training of thousands of Jamaican in new digital skills of a higher-value skill set”.
“A critical goal is to shift the makeup of the sector towards higher-skilled jobs,” Shaw emphasized.
He added, “This global services digital services sector project, being driven by JAMPRO (Jamaica Promotions Corporation) as the executing agency, is the main driver to upskill Jamaicans in the high-value technical and professional skills needed in digital services.
“…In this way, the government, along with operators and stakeholders in the private sector, are facilitating steps to offer services beyond business processing by building the skills and capabilities of the talent pool and companies who offer services under the global sector services program.”
Browse job opportunities in technology and other areas not only in Jamaica but also throughout the Caribbean at Caribbeanemployment.com
For more news, updates and tips on employment in the region, visit CaribbeanEmployment.com and follow us on social media.
All-new 2022 Tundra rolls off the production line at Toyota Texas
SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 3, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Texas pride is shining bright in San Antonio as production of the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra shifts into drive at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX).
Together with its 2,000 employees and special guests, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott and San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, TMMTX celebrated the official line off of the all-new Tundra and hybrid-powered Tundra (Spring 2022), the truck’s first-ever major model change at the South Side plant since it began assembling trucks in 2006.
Getting this adventure-ready, go-anywhere truck to market took years of research and development from a hard-working, dedicated team of employees and suppliers – including TMMTX’s over 20 on-site suppliers – a point that Toyota Texas president Kevin Voelkel made at today’s event.
“Today, we celebrate the hard work, the dedication and this accomplishment that has been years in the making,” said Voelkel. “There’s no question we are delivering the toughest, most capable, most advanced Tundra to date!”
In 2019, TMMTX announced an investment of $391 million to prepare for production of the 2022 Tundra, pushing its cumulative investment to more than $3.1 billion. The investment helped TMMTX prepare for production of the next generation Tundra by expanding its facility by 141,000 linear feet – equivalent to 470 football fields – to accommodate new processes and cutting-edge technologies to bring the redesigned powerhouse truck to loyal customers. This includes preparations to assemble a hybrid electric version Tundra – the brand’s 12th electrified vehicle – that will go on sale in early 2022. TMMTX has the annual capacity to build 208,000 vehicles.
“There is no brand more powerful than Made In Texas, and Toyota’s San Antonio-based production of the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra is a testament to that,” said Governor Abbott. “Toyota has played a pivotal role in Texas’ continued economic success, and I am grateful for the billions of dollars in investment and thousands of jobs they have brought to the Lone Star State. The unveiling of the 2022 Tundra and the first-ever Tundra Hybrid is a celebration of what businesses can achieve when they choose to invest in the best state in the nation.”
While investments in manufacturing will keep Texans working and Toyota competitive in the marketplace, TMMTX is dedicated to making a significant impact on the community. To further this commitment, the team announced $650,000 in donations to strengthen and expand access to transportation, food, STEM education and workforce development with a specific focus on San Antonio’s south side.
Donation Information
$100,000 – San Antonio Food Bank, supporting food accessibility and delivery
$250,000 – VIA, remove mobility barriers and expand mobility options for South Side residences
$300,000 – South Side Independent School Districts, enhancing STEM education, continuing education for educators and wrap-around support services for students
$50,000 – East Central Independent School District
$50,000 – Harlandale Independent School District
$50,000 – Somerset Independent School District
$50,000 – South San Antonio Independent School District
$50,000 – Southside Independent School District
$50,000 – Southwest Independent School District
Additional quotes available for media use:
Mayor Ron Nirenberg
“The 2022 Tundra is the latest example of Toyota’s innovative excellence,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “This sophisticated new Tundra rolling off San Antonio assembly lines is the result of the continued investment by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas and the dedication of the company’s workforce. This is another great day in San Antonio’s storied relationship with Toyota.”
Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff
“I had the privilege of working with Toyota when they made the decision to come to San Antonio in 2002. For nearly 20 years, they have been a great corporate leader and, together with their supply partners, have transformed our economy by adding over 7,000 jobs to the area. We are excited and honored to be here with them today to celebrate the new 2022 Tundra roll off the assembly line.”
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota has created a tremendous value chain and directly employs more than 36,000 in the U.S. The company has contributed world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 30 million cars and trucks at our 9 manufacturing plants, 10 including our joint venture in Alabama which began production in September 2021.
Toyota seeks to create limitless possibilities for all by embracing a culture of diversity and inclusion to strengthen communities and our business. We collaborate with partners to help communities thrive through access to education, workforce readiness programs, and mobility solutions. For more information, visit ww.toyotanewsroom.com.
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Mazda North American Operations continues to announce its 2022 model year lineup with updates to the Mazda3. Filled with ambitions, the brand’s compact car is offered as a sedan or hatchback with a variety of options for those interested in sophisticated design and engaging driving dynamics. With three engine options, two drivetrains, and many more package options, owners can discover the Mazda3 that best fits with their driving preference. The naturally aspirated and turbocharged Mazda3 models will begin to arrive in dealerships this winter.
MAZDA3 2.0
Mazda3 2.0, offered exclusively as a sedan, is equipped with the efficient Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter engine that will deliver 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and G-Vectoring Control Plus.
All Mazda3 models come standard with many i-Activsense safety features that include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, and High Beam Control. Mazda Connected Services is complementary for three years, which provides the ability to monitor and control the state of the Mazda3 remotely by logging into the MyMazda app and includes in-car Wi-Fi hotspot2 for three-months or 2GB trial, whichever comes first.
The stylish interior features an 8.8-inch center display with the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system that can be controlled with the multi-function commander knob. Other standard features include push button start, remote keyless illuminated entry, rearview camera, two front USB inputs, Bluetooth, eight-speaker sound system, electronic parking brake, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and black cloth seats. The exterior provides LED lighting for the automatic on/off headlights, combination taillights, and daytime running lights, to go along with a matte finish front grille and silver finish 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels.
MAZDA3 2.5 S
Available in hatchback or sedan, the performance of the Mazda3 2.5 S is heightened with the Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine capable of 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is included with all the standard features packaged with the Mazda3 2.0.
MAZDA3 2.5 S SELECT
Mazda is introducing a new color option to the US market with Platinum Quartz Metallic available on Mazda3 2.5 S Select, Preferred, Premium and both Turbo models. This model adds more conveniences such as Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear armrest with cup holders, and door mirror turn signals. Design upgrades include black leatherette seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a gray finish for the hatchback or silver finish for the sedan.
MAZDA3 2.5 S PREFERRED
Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive becomes an option starting with the Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred package, helping enhance the vehicle’s performance on top of the FWD models. This package includes a power moonroof, available black or greige leatherette seats, heated front seats, eight-way power driver seats with power lumbar support and seat memory, gloss black front grille, and door mirrors with memory positioning.
MAZDA3 2.5 S CARBON EDITION
With the popularity of the Carbon Edition trim levels introduced on select Mazda vehicles for the 2021 model year, the brand’s compact car is receiving the special trim for the 2022 model year. This unique model, available as a hatchback or sedan, is packaged with the naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and FWD. The Mazda3 2.5 S Carbon Edition is only offered in Polymetal Gray exterior paint and red leather, and shares features found in the Preferred package while adding Bose 12-speaker premium audio with aluminum speaker grilles, black finish 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and gloss black heated door mirrors.
MAZDA3 2.5 S PREMIUM
The Mazda3 2.5 S Premium package enhances the Preferred package with Bose 12-speaker premium audio with aluminum speaker grilles, SiriusXM satellite radio with three-month trial, full-color windshield-projected Active Driving Display, Mazda Navigation System, paddle shifters, Adaptive Front-lighting System, and a shark fin antenna. Leather seats are available in black or red for the hatchback or black or white for the sedan. This model is equipped with 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a black finish for the hatchback or bright finish for the sedan, and LED signature illumination headlights and taillights. Mazda continues to receive strong interest from owners who prefer the confidence of shifting their own gears and is pleased to offer the Skyactiv-MT six-speed manual transmission on the Mazda3 2.5 S Premium hatchback FWD.
MAZDA3 2.5 TURBO
The turbocharged Mazda3 will continue to be a favorite among driving enthusiasts looking for a modern hatchback or sedan with refined performance. The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo is powered by the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine delivering an impressive 250 horsepower and a robust 320 lb-ft of torque with premium 93 octane fuel paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD. With regular 87 octane fuel, the turbo engine is capable of 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Mazda3 turbo models will continue to provide owners with a connected and engaging driving experience with either choice of fuel.
The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo shares similar features as the Mazda3 2.5 S Premium package, except without leather seats and Mazda Navigation System. The standard turbo models include a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, black or greige leatherette seats, frameless auto-dim rearview mirror, chrome finishes around the push button start and glove box latch, and windshield wiper de-icer. Subtle exterior styling feature gloss black 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, gloss black heated door mirrors, gloss black front grille, larger tailpipes, and a “TURBO” badge. Polymetal Gray is available for turbo models as a premium paint option.
MAZDA3 2.5 TURBO PREMIUM PLUS
The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus elevates the refined styling with gloss black aerodynamics accents. Sedan turbo models include a rear lip spoiler, while hatchback turbo models are equipped with a rear roof spoiler and front air dam. Rear Direction Base Safety, which includes Smart Brake Support-Reverse and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking, is added to complete the full i-Activsense suite of safety features. Leather seats are available in black or red for the hatchback or black or white for the sedan. Convenience upgrades include Traffic Jam Assist, 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Homelink added to the frameless auto-dim rearview mirror, and the Mazda Navigation System is installed in this turbo model, allowing the Active Driving Display to include Traffic Sign Recognition.
MSRP3 FOR THE 2022 MAZDA3 IS AS FOLLOWS:
Model
Drivetrain
Sedan
Hatchback
Mazda3 2.0
FWD
$20,800
–
Mazda3 2.5 S
FWD
$21,750
$22,750
Mazda3 2.5 S Select Package
FWD
$23,100
$24,100
Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred Package
FWD
$24,750
$25,750
AWD
$26,150
$27,150
Mazda3 2.5 S Carbon Edition
FWD
$26,400
$27,400
Mazda3 2.5 S Premium Package (6MT)
FWD
–
$28,350
Mazda3 2.5 S Premium Package
FWD
$27,350
$28,350
AWD
$28,750
$29,750
Mazda3 2.5 Turbo
AWD
$30,550
$31,550
Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
AWD
$33,100
$34,400
PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:
Soul Red Crystal Metallic
$595
Machine Gray Metallic
$595
Polymetal Gray Metallic
$395
Snowflake White Pearl Mica
$395
Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through approximately 780 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com/Newsroom.
1 MSRP does not include $1,015 for destination and handling ($1,060 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices.
2 Mazda Connected Services is provided during a three-year trial period; annual subscription fees appl thereafter. A compatible phone with cellular or Wi-Fi services is necessary to access Mazda Connected Services features. Verizon is the service provider of Mazda Connect Wi-Fi. Trail or paid subscription required.
3 MSRP does not include $1,015 for destination and handling ($1,060 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices.
The new tri-branded Enterprise, National and Alamo rental branch at Medellin International Airport is Enterprise’s 11th location in Colombia. (PRNewsfoto/Enterprise Holdings, Inc.)
ST. LOUIS, Dec. 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Enterprise Holdings announced today that it has opened at Colombia’sMedellin International Airport. The new branch – which is already taking reservations – serves customers of the company’s flagship Enterprise Rent-A-Car brand, as well as National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car. Enterprise Holdings owns all three brands.
The new Colombia branch, located in the country’s second largest airport, represents the company’s commitment to serving domestic and international customers as travel opens up around the world. Since the onset of the pandemic, the company has opened more than 100 new branches worldwide.
“Colombia is a premier market for Enterprise’s global growth as we continue to expand to meet the needs of business and leisure travelers alike, wherever they choose to go,” said Peter A. Smith, vice president of global franchising at Enterprise Holdings. “As international travel begins again, we are excited to serve our customers around the world and stand by our promise to provide them with a safe and convenient rental experience.”
The Medellin branch increases Enterprise’s presence in Colombia to 11 locations. It’s the latest in the company’s ongoing international expansion in Latin America and surrounding areas. Enterprise Rent-A-Car made its debut in Latin America in 2015, joining the National and Alamo brands.
Customers in Colombia also have the added benefit of earning awards and free rental days through two loyalty programs: Enterprise Plus through the Enterprise Rent-A-Car brand, and the award-winning Emerald Club through the National Car Rental brand. Enterprise Plus and Emerald Club both launched in Colombia in 2017.
About Enterprise Holdings Enterprise Holdings, Inc. is a leading provider of mobility solutions, owning and operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its integrated global network of independent regional subsidiaries and franchise partners. Enterprise Holdings and its affiliates offer extensive car rental, carsharing, truck rental, fleet management, retail car sales, as well as travel management and other transportation services, to make travel easier and more convenient for customers. Privately held by the Taylor family of St. Louis, Mo., Enterprise Holdings manages a diverse fleet of more than 1.85 million vehicles through a network of nearly 10,000 fully staffed neighborhood and airport rental locations in more than 90 countries and territories.
FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 3, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Elda Laínez, a multi-degree holder including a doctorate degree in Theology, a fervent follower of Christ since childhood, has completed her new book “Luchando Frente a Toda Adversidad”: a thought-provoking read that presents valuable weapons needed for the spiritual battle against the rulers of darkness. This book contains answers to the common concerns of the believers. Does God really exist? If He indeed exists, where was He when everyone was suffering?
Laínez shares, “We live in a time where there is a lot of technology, but little knowledge of God, we ignore each of the things that help us find comfort or actually find ourselves.
In the Reina Valera 1960 Bible we find 3365 promises of God for his children among them, some are unconditional, these include all humanity, such as when God promises not to send another flood to the earth, among many more, the other scale of promises are the conditional ones. They are exclusively for those who want to meet certain requirements such as the field of wisdom, we see when God asked Solomon what he wanted God to give him, he chose among so many things to have wisdom to govern the people of God well.
In this Manual we find the promises of God for our family, our life, as they are promises of healing of well-being, economic and some techniques of how to approach or achieve each one of these; The 3365 promises are not included, but there are some very relevant ones, trying to answer frequently asked questions, how to be if there is such a wonderful and powerful God, why does humanity suffer so much? Where is the beloved Church of God which they reach? All these promises? We see several panoramas to judge in this selection.
We will find out how it is possible to be in church and still not know God, perhaps 2 or 3 services per week and still not know the author and finisher of all things. This situation affects those around us from different points of view. How can we approach and have a personal relationship with Christ, discovering what the term that God has adopted us as legitimate children means through his great and sublime mercy and even so with so many promises to receive where there is the issue of depression in which there is much cloth to cut to talk about it, since each world drama brings us closer to getting depressed and feeling that everything is getting out of hand forces us to feel moments of loneliness and anguish which only with a good meditation on the word of God we can make amends. The destruction is worse every day if we watch the news we realize the world reality that we have crime, drug addiction, suicide, etc. Natural phenomena all give us a warning sound that something great is to come the expected time and narrated in the sacred scriptures is approaching we need to wake up from the great lethargy that our King is living is soon at the door and you and I what we are doing to announce to the world the good news of salvation because there is still time, let’s get up and unite ourselves for those who still do not know about God.”
Published by Page Publishing, Elda Laínez’s page-turning narrative is a rich manual that prepares believers in the war against Satan who occasionally tries to plant confusion and tempts Christians to lose their identity as Christians. This book is perfect for practicing spiritual self-defense.
Believers who want to actively nourish their spiritual self will definitely enjoy this read.
Readers who wish to experience this illuminating work can purchase “Luchando Frente a Toda Adversidad” online at the Apple iTunes Store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.
For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.
About Page Publishing:
Page Publishing is a traditional, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors’ books, including distribution in the world’s largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create, not mired in logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and so on. Page’s accomplished writers and publishing professionals allow authors to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at www.pagepublishing.com.
Toyota is celebrating the season of coming together in “Bookstore,” one of two national Toyota holiday ads.
PLANO, Texas, Dec. 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — As the holiday spirit sets in, Toyota is celebrating the season of coming together with a special holiday message. “Bookstore,” the first of two Toyota holiday ads, debuted last night during NBC’s primetime special, “Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” with a personalized throw from a show host.
“Bookstore” is a 60-second spot that shares the heartwarming story of a young girl who gets inspired to collect gently used books from her community to restock her favorite local bookstore after it’s devastated by a fire. In the final scene, the girl presents the shop owner with her favorite book, purchased from his bookstore when she was younger, as community members come together to repair his storefront in a gesture of kindness. The shop owner is overwhelmed by the support from the community, especially after seeing that his inventory can be replenished thanks to the generous book donations delivered to him with help from a Toyota Tundra and Toyota Highlander. “Bookstore” was created by Saatchi & Saatchi and directed by Ted Melfi.
Toyota continues the holiday spirit with a message of joy later this month with a CGI-developed spot titled “Nora’s Joy,” produced in both English and Spanish. Developed by Conill Advertising, “Nora’s Joy” is the story of a young woman who finds the ability to share her joy in a very magical way. Once she unleashes her emotions, we see her driving her Toyota Tacoma around town, spreading the joy with those around her in a flurry of bright lights lighting up the night sky. The spot includes a unique musical composition called “Starlight” by Robert DiPietro and produced by Pickle Music. The spot was directed by directing duo Kyra and Constantin, with executive producer Juliette Stern, of Passion Pictures.
“This year, more than ever, the holidays remind us of the importance of being with loved ones and helping give back to the community,” said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president, Toyota Marketing, Toyota Motor North America. “We’re looking forward to sharing an uplifting message of coming together to celebrate the true meaning of the season.”
Tying in with “Bookstore,” Toyota is spotlighting its longstanding partner, National Center for Families Learning (NCFL), a national nonprofit that works to eradicate poverty through education solutions for families. Toyota is partnering with NCFL to provide more than 85,000 books for families nationwide through its 420 literacy centers across the country.
Tying in with “Nora’s Joy,” Toyota is inviting consumers to #sharethejoy by sending a digital “joy jar” to their loved ones via the @ToyotaLatino Instagram channel from December 12 through January 3, 2022. For every share, Toyota will make a donation to the Hispanic Scholarship Fund up to a total of $50,000, in support of student scholars nationwide.
Where to Watch
In addition to NBC’s “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” special, the :60 version of “Bookstore” will continue with a number of high-profile airings – including NBC’s “TODAY” and Thursday Night Football on FOX on Thursday, December 2, and “Sunday Night Football” on NBC on Sunday, December 5.
After the premiere week, “Bookstore” will begin airing :30 and :60 versions on December 10, across broadcast and cable networks. The integrated campaign will appear nationally on broadcast, digital and paid social. The spot will air during prime time, early morning, sports programming and on cable networks. The spot will air the 30-second version during NBA games, as well as FOX Thursday and NBC Sunday Night Football halftimes throughout December.
The :60 version of “Nora’s Joy” will launch on December 11 on Univision’s broadcast of their annual TeletonUSA 17-hour charity broadcast. That version, along with a :30 version, will be airing on Hispanic broadcast, targeted cable networks and digital channels, including Spanish and bilingual programming across various networks including Univision, Telemundo, ESPN Deportes and Discovery en Español along with digital platforms including NBCUniversal’s Peacock, YouTube, Pandora and Peopleenespanol.com. Later this month, “Nora’s Joy” will come to life through an exclusive interview with one of the hosts of Telemundo’s afternoon show, “En Casa con Telemundo.”
The Toyotathon December Sales Event offers incentives through January 3, 2022. View the “Bookstore” spot here and the 30-second version of the “Nora’s Joy” spot here (in Spanish). Images and credits are available here.
About Toyota Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota has created a tremendous value chain and directly employs more than 36,000 in the U.S. The company has contributed world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 30 million cars and trucks at our 9 manufacturing plants, 10 including our joint venture in Alabama that begins production in 2021.
To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.
Kia America Beats Annual Sales Record with One Month Left in 2021 Calendar
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Kia America today announced November sales of 45,318 units guaranteeing the company will set an all-time annual record before the end of the year. November sales were led by Telluride and Sorento with 7,767 and 6,845 units delivered. In addition, Kia sold 77-percent of available inventory and continued to see increased demand for its hybrid and battery-electric vehicles, sales of which have nearly doubled since this time last year, further demonstrating Kia’s commitment to electrification.
“Breaking the all-time annual sales record with one month left in the sales cycle is concrete proof that demand for Kia vehicles is on the rise and has been throughout the year,” said Eric Watson, vice president, sales operations, Kia America. “With the all-new Kia EV6 arriving soon and the Sportage, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid models arriving throughout the first half of 2022, we are confident that the interest in Kia will not wane anytime soon.”
In addition to sales, November saw a number of significant announcements coming from the brand, including:
The Kia Telluride named to Car and Driver’s 10Best list for 2022, which recognizes the best trucks and SUVs on the market.
Kia’s all-new 2022 EV6 crossover set GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS history, traveling 2,880.5 miles to cross the United States with the shortest required charging time in an electric vehicle. During the seven-day trip from New York City to Los Angeles, the EV6 beat the previous record holder, Tesla, by more than five and a half hours.
Kia unveiled the electrified version of the brand’s longest running nameplate at the Los Angeles Auto Show (LAAS). The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid (HEV) is the third model in an ongoing cadence of eco-minded offerings guided by Kia’s global EV strategy, ‘Plan S’. This newest Kia follows in the footsteps of the recently debuted EV6 and Sorento PHEV to serve as another example of Kia’s multiple pathways to electrification.
Kia America – about us
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and offers a complete range of vehicles sold through a network of nearly 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.
For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.
Together In Motion Indiana Autonomous Shuttle Service Launches in Fishers on December 20
FISHERS, Ind., Dec. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/– The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF), Energy Systems Network (ESN), the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and the City of Fishers have joined with May Mobility, a leader in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology and shuttle operations, to inaugurate a free, public autonomous shuttle service on December 20, 2021 to serve the area surrounding the Nickel Plate Cultural District in Fishers, Indiana. The AV shuttle service is part of the Together in Motion Indiana initiative announced earlier this year by TMF and ESN that previously provided a similar autonomous shuttle service in downtown Indianapolis for six months.
May Mobility will manage a fleet of autonomous, shared vehicles that will operate along a three-mile fixed-route loop with nine designated stops to service the live, work and play districts of downtown Fishers. The hop-on, hop-off service connects the residential area at Pullman Pointe and South Pointe Village apartments to the commercial district along Commercial Drive and Fishers Corner Boulevard, Municipal Drive and 116th Street, including a stop along the new Nickel Plate Trail. Each route stop is identifiable by a sign with route information and a QR code with more information about May Mobility’s technology.
“With the launch in Fishers, we’ll be adding a new public transportation service in a community that primarily relies on personal vehicle ownership,” said Edwin Olson, CEO of May Mobility. “This is an amazing opportunity to partner with Fishers to challenge the status quo of transit and engage a wider audience in the future of transportation.”
“With our commitment to innovation, technology and entrepreneurship, it was a natural fit for Fishers to serve as the first suburban site for May Mobility’s autonomous vehicle fleet,” said Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness. “Our Nickel Plate Cultural District is the perfect test site for this technology as our partners identify the nuances of a suburban environment for autonomous technology.”
In support of a low carbon future, the free service will feature five hybrid Lexus RX 450h vehicles and one wheelchair-accessible Polaris GEM fully electric vehicle and is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., with shuttles arriving every 10- to 15-minutes on a rotating loop. Riders can see live updates of the shuttle’s locations on the Together in Motion Indiana website.
“The Nickel Plate Cultural District in Fishers represents an ideal location to deploy an autonomous shuttle service through May Mobility,” said Ryan Klem, director of programs for the Toyota Mobility Foundation. “We are excited to learn how the community utilizes the service as this experience will go far in providing valuable insights that will inform the future of mobility in cities all across the US and further propel Toyota’s mission of Mobility for All.”
Aiming to foster innovation through industry partnerships and propel research and development in advanced mobility technologies in Indiana, Together in Motion Indiana supports the deployments of various mobility solutions that are developed with local community input. With this human-centered approach, the initiative aims to better serve the transportation needs of the local communities, to understand the changing ecosystems surrounding these needs, to potentially expand such initiatives into other communities and to establish networks for the sharing and leveraging of key learnings.
“Indiana continues to be a place for advancing autonomous transportation solutions and partnering with the City of Fishers as our next city to deploy the May Mobility autonomous shuttle service is a perfect fit,” said Paul Mitchell, president and CEO, Energy Systems Network. “Public-private partnerships like this one only strengthen the goal of providing mobility options for all residents.”
May Mobility established its regional office in Fishers, Indiana, in early 2021. Fishers will be its ninth shuttle deployment since the company began operations. May Mobility recently completed shuttle operations in Indianapolis, Indiana, providing Hoosiers with more than 3,400 rides to school and work from June to November 2021. May Mobility conducts shuttle services in Grand Rapids, Michigan; Arlington, Texas; Hiroshima, Japan; and Ann Arbor, Michigan, as well.
“Indiana is excited to continue the deep partnership with May Mobility and the Toyota Mobility Foundation to bring the future of mobility to another community in Indiana,” said David Roberts, EVP of entrepreneurship and innovation, Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “This service is an important component to the vibrant ecosystem of innovation, when combined with the autonomous on-highway work being supported by INDOT and the milestone event of the Indy Autonomous Challenge.”
About May Mobility May Mobility is a leader in autonomous vehicle technology development and deployment. With more than 295,000 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 Toyota Mobility Foundation The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) was established in August 2014 by the Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) to support the development of a more mobile society in which everyone can move freely. The Foundation underscores TMC’s on-going commitment to continuous improvement and respect for people. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise and technologies to support strong mobility systems while eliminating disparities in mobility. TMF works in partnership with universities, governments, non-profits, research institutions and other organizations, creating programs aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address mobility issues around the world.
About Energy Systems Network (ESN) 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, visit www.energysystemsnetwork.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.
About Indiana Economic Development Corporation (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. 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.
Media Contacts May Mobility Craig Daitch Telemetry Public Relations 248-880-4403 craig@telemetryagency.com
IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 30, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Mazda North American Operations recently announced significant enhancements to the Mazda CX-5. These thoughtful updates elevate the vehicle’s elegant design and further refine the engaging driving experience, which all help improve upon the crossover SUV’s appeal. In addition, all 2022 CX-5 models will have standard i-Activ all-wheel drive in the U.S. when they arrive in dealerships nationwide this winter.
The CX-5 is an important vehicle for Mazda and has earned high praise by many, which help it be the brand’s best-selling vehicle in the US. By providing thoughtful updates to the CX-5, Mazda is focused on continuing to deepen the bond with its owners who have strong values in design, driving dynamics and safety. In receiving enhancements based on Mazda’s latest generation Kodo design ethos, the CX-5 is ensuring it will continue to attract customers alongside new Mazda vehicles for years to come. Mazda designers focused on refining the front and rear ends, opting to minimize character lines in favor of reflective body surfaces that create a distinguished and elegant appearance. The front adopts a new bumper and new signature wing that extends outward from the front grille, which is also updated with a three-dimensional texture. The rear features new bumper and tailgate designs that are complemented by larger dual tailpipes. The headlights and taillights receive significant design changes with each lamp featuring a pair of horizontally spaced, rectangular LED lights that create a sleek, eye-catching expression.
Complementing the elegant design, the driving dynamics and ride quality of the 2022 CX-5 have evolved with updates to the seats, body, and suspension that were introduced in Mazda’s recent vehicles. The seats are redesigned to help provide the driver and the vehicle’s occupants with greater stability to help create a natural and comfortable experience. The driver will appreciate smooth acceleration with a more responsive six-speed automatic transmission. Updates to the suspension include improvements to the dampening control structure and increased frame rigidity, which will help suppress unpleasant vibrations, reduce road noise that help provide a quieter cabin and higher quality of ride comfort. Overall, these enhancements will help the driver feel more connected to the enjoyable driving experience.
The CX-5 nomenclature will receive a simple, but thoughtful change throughout its model lineup as the crossover SUV continues to evolve alongside Mazda’s recently introduced vehicles.
CX-5 2.5 S
The CX-5 2.5 S features Mazda’s Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter, four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine with cylinder deactivation. This efficient powertrain can deliver up to 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque with any fuel grade and is paired with a quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and sport mode. All CX-5 models will continue to be equipped with G-Vectoring Control Plus and will now have the latest i-Activ AWD system as standard, which enhances performance by focusing on improved driving dynamics, handling, and vehicle control that help the driver enjoy the experience on most terrains or in most conditions. Engaging driving dynamics are engineered into every aspect of vehicle development to help create a connection between car and driver. Mazda’s unique i-Activ AWD system continuously monitors weight distribution and shifts power to the appropriate wheels, providing drivers a near instant response to inputs.
CX-5 is complete with many i-Activsense safety features as standard, including Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Smart Brake Support, Advanced Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist.
In addition to the exterior design updates for the 2022 model year, CX-5 will showcase a new design gray metallic 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Other features include automatic on/off LED headlights with High Beam Control, rear roof spoiler, roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers.
The CX-5 has been well-appointed at the standard level to help ensure the driver and its occupants have a driving experience that exceeds their expectations. Every CX-5 models include complimentary Mazda Connected Services for three years, providing the ability to monitor and control the state of the CX-5 remotely by logging into the MyMazda app and includes in-car Wi-Fi hotspot2 for three-months or 2GB trial, whichever comes first. The 10.25″ full-color center display features the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system that can be controlled with the multi-function commander knob and is integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other standard features include push button start, remote keyless entry system, leather-wrapped shifter and steering wheel with mounted audio, Bluetooth, and cruise control buttons, dual front USB inputs, four-speaker sound system, black cloth seats with six-way manual adjustable driver’s seat and four-way manual adjustable passenger seat, electronic parking brake, rearview camera, climate control, power door locks, and power windows with one-touch automatic up/down.
CX-5 2.5 S SELECT
Moving up to the CX-5 2.5 S Select package adds more conveniences for the owner such as auto-leveling headlights, rear privacy glass, dual-zone automatic climate control, black or silk beige leatherette seats, and Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry. The front seats are upgraded with three-level heating, while the driver’s seat has six-way power adjustability, and the passenger has six-way manual adjustability. All occupants will enjoy the six-speaker sound system with rear passengers benefiting from rear air conditioning vents, rear seat center armrest, and two additional USB ports easily accessible.
CX-5 2.5 S PREFERRED
The new CX-5 2.5 S Preferred package will add a power moonroof and power rear liftgate from the previous model. Inside are black or silk beige leather seats with both driver and passenger receiving power adjustability in eight-way and six-way, respectively. The driver’s seat also includes two-position memory. Auto-dimming rearview mirrors with Homelink is also added to this package.
CX-5 2.5 S CARBON EDITION
Following a successful debut in the previous model year, Mazda will continue to offer Carbon Edition for the 2022 CX-5. The CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition is the only way for owners to receive the Polymetal Gray exterior paint color with an option between black or red leather interior. Carbon Edition will also feature black metallic 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels with matching gloss black side mirrors and front signature wing. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter has red stitching that is complemented with gloss black instrument panel and door trim styling.
CX-5 2.5 S PREMIUM
For the CX-5 2.5 S Premium package, Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) is introduced, which enables the driver to select the most appropriate drive mode to optimize driving capability with one touch of a switch. CX-5 will feature Normal, Off-Road, and Sport Modes.
Building off the CX-5 2.5 S Preferred package, this model adds a Bose 10-speaker premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio with three-month trial, paddle shifters, and a seven-inch LCD multi-information gauge display. LED daytime running lights and combination taillights are added to this model along with brilliant silver finish 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, Adaptive Front-lighting System, and dual heated door mirrors.
CX-5 2.5 S PREMIUM PLUS
The new CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus package adds full-color windshield-projected Active Driving Display with available Traffic Sign Recognition with the optional Mazda Navigation System accessory installed, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, three-level heated rear seats, windshield wiper de-icer, and automatic power-folding door mirrors.
CX-5 2.5 TURBO
In addition to design updates for the 2022 CX-5 Turbo models, the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine will receive performance improvements. With premium, 93 octane fuel, the turbocharged engine can now deliver 256 horsepower, which is an increase of six horsepower from the previous model year, and 320 lb-ft of torque. On regular, 87 octane fuel, the engine will provide 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
The new CX-5 2.5 Turbo model offers contemporary styling, appealing to performance-minded enthusiasts. The exterior features sleek finishes throughout to support an athletic look with a gloss black front grille, signature wing, door mirrors, lower bumper, wheel arches, and rocker molding. Completing the theme are black metallic finish 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels and a turbo badge on the rear liftgate. The interior features black or parchment leather seats that are complemented with red accents and stitching on the instrument panel, door trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and shifter. All CX-5 turbo models include a wireless phone charger.
CX-5 2.5 TURBO SIGNATURE
Elevating to the CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature model, thoughtful design changes were made to help make the CX-5 feel more elegant. The cladding on the exterior of this model adopts the same unified color scheme as the rest of the body and will be contrasted by bright silver finish 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels with matching front grille and signature wing. A signature badge is also on the rear liftgate to help further differentiate the highest model.
The interior is appointed with premium quality materials such as Caturra Brown Nappa leather and genuine woodgrain. The bright silver finish is also found throughout, which is highlighted by LED interior lighting and ambient foot illumination. The black headliner and unique steering wheel are among other sophisticated styling found in the cabin of the CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature. The Mazda Navigation System is installed in this model, allowing the Active Driving Display to include Traffic Sign Recognition. Owners can also benefit from the three-year SiriusXM Traffic & Travel Link subscription that provides current information for traffic, weather, sports scores, fuel prices, and nearby parking, which are all very useful features to use in the city.
Finally, this model is full equipped with Mazda’s latest i-Activsense safety features which add the 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Rear Smart City Brake Support, Traffic Jam Assist, and Driver Attention Alert. All conveniences that helps enhance driving around town.
MSRP3 FOR THE 2022 MAZDA CX-5 IS AS FOLLOWS:
Model
i-Activ All-Wheel Drive
CX-5 2.5 S
$25,900
CX-5 2.5 S Select
$27,900
CX-5 2.5 S Preferred
$29,160
CX-5 2.5 S Carbon Edition
$30,280
CX-5 2.5 S Premium
$32,310
CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus
$33,950
CX-5 2.5 Turbo
$36,400
CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature
$38,650
PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:
Soul Red Crystal Metallic
$595
Machine Gray Metallic
$595
Snowflake White Pearl Mica
$395
Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through approximately 780 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com/Newsroom.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Partners in the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative(FOSSI) today announced an ambitious goal to expand support and funding for under-represented groups to pursue a degree in a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) field at historically black colleges or universities (HBCUs). After exceeding its inaugural goal of funding 150 scholars in 2021, the program will aim to support 1000 scholars through 2025.
This significant goal would provide $40MM in scholarships to students through 2025, reflecting the commitment of chemical manufacturers and affiliates to drive diversity, equity and inclusion in the industry’s workforce.
FOSSI Chairman Mark Vergnano noted, “Through this ambitious long-term goal, FOSSI has the potential to have a real, tangible impact on the face of the chemical industry, providing opportunities for students in local facility communities and across the nation to pursue their dreams of a STEM education. But, it’s not just a scholarship. FOSSI creates lasting relationships between scholars and sponsors and helps provide real-world training and leadership skills to ensure these students’ success in their college years and beyond.”
Founding Partner and CEO of HBCU Week Foundation, Ashley Christopher, added, “HBCUs have an important role in advancing and supporting groups that have historically been overlooked and under-represented. This goal has the potential to impact thousands of families and communities and create a diverse pipeline of future leaders.”
FOSSI has the support of nearly 50 chemical manufacturers and related organizations, and has raised more than 15 million to date, funding over 300 scholars. The inaugural class of FOSSI scholars represented 110 high schools across 28 states, and scholars are currently attending 26 HBCUs, majoring in 17 STEM majors.
Vergnano and Christopher will be honored alongside fellow Founding Partner, Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council, at the American Institute of Chemical Engineers Doing a World of Good gala this evening. FOSSI is a core initiative of the AIChE Doing a World of Good campaign and its All for Good: Engineering for Inclusion priority, which is driving industry-wide improvement in equity, diversity and inclusion.
To learn more about FOSSI, visit FutureOfSTEMScholars.org.
About the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative
The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative was founded in 2020 by the American Chemistry Council, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), The Chemours Company, and the HBCU Week Foundation. FOSSI is a national chemical industry-wide program which provides scholarships to students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), helping to eliminate financial barriers for historically under-represented groups. Sponsored by chemical manufacturers and related industry stakeholders, FOSSI provides scholarship recipients $10,000 per year for four years and connects these students to leadership development, mentoring and internship opportunities at participating companies. Learn more at FutureofSTEMscholars.org.
WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Post Office locations nationwide will be closed on Christmas Day, Saturday, Dec. 25, 2021, and New Year’s Day, Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022.
All Post Office locations will be open, and regular mail delivery will resume, on Monday, Dec. 27, 2021, and Monday, Jan. 3, 2022.
Some Post Office locations may have extended hours leading up to the holidays, while others may have limited hours on Christmas Eve, Friday, Dec. 24. There are currently no plans for limited hours on New Year’s Eve, Friday, Dec. 31. Customers are advised to always check with their local Post Office for hours of operation.
Blue collection boxes with final collection times before noon will not be affected by an early closing Dec. 24.
If a box has a final collection time after noon, its mail may be picked up earlier. For mail pickup on Dec. 24, customers are asked to either put their mail into blue collection boxes by noon regardless of the final collection times posted on the box, or take their items to one of our more than 34,000 Post Office locations.
Customers who are unable to mail items before the scheduled collection box pickup times on Dec. 24 should visit the online Postal Locator tool at tools.usps.com to find Post Office locations that may be open late.
As a reminder, blue collection boxes are not serviced on Sundays.
The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.
Top Latina Speaker Gaby Natale Advocates at the United Nations for Gender Equality
NEW YORK, Dec. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — 3-time EMMY award winning entrepreneur, author and speaker Gaby Natale will join a group of decision makers for the fourth Hispanic Leadership Summit held at the UN Headquarters in New York to address the issues around gender equality and Latinas.
“Women in general -and Latinas in particular- have been disproportionately affected both personally and professionally as a result of the pandemic. As Latina entrepreneur, author and speaker, I know how underrepresented we are and how much room for growth we have in issues as vital as pay parity, media representation or parental leave to name just a few. I am trilled to join the Hispanic Leadership Summit to have this much needed conversations around gender equality in our community,” explains Natale.
The post pandemic gathering of leaders from business, media, politics and advocacy came about after a yearlong effort by the We Are All Human Foundation, headed by Claudia Romo Edelman. Natale -who is part of the event’s strategic committee- has been previously Invited to serve as special rapporteur on the topic of representation of Latinos in media.
The Hispanic Leadership Summit provides the annual update on the status of the Hispanic community within the model and framework of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This Hispanic Leadership Summit will offer an opportunity to gather community leadership and champion allies to understand the current state of the Hispanic community and how we can take action together as we look to 2022.
“The Latino community is the largest minority in the US, yet we remain chronically underrepresented and misrepresented in boardrooms, media narratives and public office. That is why the full backing of an institution as consequential as the United Nations is paramount in acknowledging this reality,” explains Natale.
The 2021 edition of the Hispanic Leadership Summit will take place on December 7 & 8 at the United Nations headquarters in New York City.
The event’s strategic advisory committee includes:
– Marco A. Davis, President & CEO Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI)
– Gary Acosta, Co-Founder & CEO National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP®)
– Arabel Alva Rosales, President & CEO AAR & Assocs. LTD.
– Andre Arbelaez, President Hispanic C-Suite Corporate Council
– Victor Arias, Jr., Managing Director Diversified Search Group
– Delia Gutierrez McLaughlin, Principal Engagement Lead Amazon Web Services (AWS)
– Marty Martinez, Founder & CEO Social Revolt Agency
– Luis Miguel Messianu, Founder, Creative Chairman & CEO ALMA
– Patricia Mota, MPA, President & CEO Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement
– Gaby Natale, President AGANAR Media
– Jorge Plasencia, Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO Republica Havas
– Damian Rivera (He / Him / His), CEO ALPFA
– Robert Rodriguez, PhD, President DRR Advisors LLC
– Nancy Santiago
– Oscar Suris, Executive Managing Director Zeno Group
– Ana Valdez, Executive President The Latino Donor Collaborative
About Gaby Natale and AGANARmedia
Gaby Natale believes in breaking barriers. And she embodies what she preaches.
As the first Latina to win 3 Daytime EMMYs back-to-back (as host and executive producer of her own show), the first Hispanic author to be published by HarperCollins’ Leadership division and one of the few foreign-born writers to narrate their audiobook in English, Gaby has had her own share of being “the first like her” in leadership spaces.
A sought-after thought leader and motivational speaker, Gaby has shared her inspirational message in Fortune 50 corporations, the United Nations and in her own TEDx talk encouraging underrepresented minorities to pioneer and be what they cannot (yet) see in the world.
Natale is among a few women in the entertainment industry who owns not only the rights to her content, but also a television studio. This unique situation has allowed her to combine her passion for media and her entrepreneurial spirit.
People magazine named Natale one of 2018’s “25 Most Powerful Latinas”, highlighting the inspirational story of how she went from a local TV show that started out of a carpet warehouse to becoming the only Latina in US history to win triple back-to-back Daytime EMMYs. Her popularity grew even further when her first book, “The Virtuous Circle” by HarperCollins, became an instant bestseller, topping Amazon’s New Releases charts in 3 different categories (Business, Inspiration and Self-Help).
Natale is also the founder of AGANARmedia, a marketing company with a focus on Hispanic audiences that serves Fortune 500 companies such as Hilton Worldwide, Sprint, AT&T, eBay, Intuit and Amazon. In the digital world, she has a thriving fan base with over 52 million views on YouTube and 250K+ followers on Social Media.
In 2019, Natale launched Welcome All Beauty, her own hairpiece and extension line dedicated to women who need to be camera-ready on the go.
A tireless advocate of gender and diversity issues, Natale is a frequent collaborator with nonprofits such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Phenomenal Woman Action Campaign and Voto Latino.
Natale has been featured in Forbes, CNN, Buzzfeed, NBC News, Univision and Latino Leaders magazine. She is the recipient of NALIP’s Digital Trailblazer Award and of a GLAAD Media Award nomination for her portrayal of Latino LGBTQ youth in media.
Natale holds a bachelor’s in International Relations and a master’s degree in Journalism from the University of San Andres and Columbia University. Prior to starting her career in television, Natale taught Communication and Journalism courses at the University of Texas.
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total November sales of 20,602 vehicles, a decrease of 5.3 percent compared to November 2020. Year-to-date sales totaled 313,334 vehicles; an increase of 26.4 percent compared to the same time last year. With 24 selling days in November, compared to 23 the year prior, the company posted a decrease of 9.2 percent on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis.
CPO sales totaled 3,847 vehicles in November, a decrease of 25 percent compared to November 2020.
Sales Highlights:
CX-30 sales increased 66.3 percent YoY with 4,404 vehicles sold.
CX-9 sales increased 17.2 percent YoY with 2,311 vehicles sold.
Mazda Canada, Inc., (MCI) reported November sales of 2,975 vehicles, a decrease of 46.6 percent compared to November last year. Year-to-date sales increased 12.4 percent with 60,253 vehicles sold.
Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported November sales of 4,815 vehicles, an increase of 9 percent compared to November last year. Year-to-date sales increased 2.2 percent, with 42,195 vehicles sold.
Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts, and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico through approximately 780 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com/Newsroom.
CALGARY, AB, Nov. 30, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Parkland Corporation (“Parkland”, “we”, the “Company”, or “our”) (TSX: PKI), a leading consolidator of convenience retail and fuel marketing businesses, announced today it has entered into an agreement to acquire approximately 156 retail locations, from Cenovus Energy Inc. (“the Acquisition”). This Acquisition bolsters Parkland’s existing Canadian convenience retail network by adding high-quality retail locations in Greater Vancouver, Vancouver Island, Calgary, and the Greater Toronto area.
“This acquisition is a natural fit for Parkland,” said Donna Sanker, President Parkland Canada. “Consistent with our recently announced strategy to develop our retail network in key Canadian markets and diversify our retail business to better serve our customers, it provides an opportunity to create convenience destinations by expanding our ON the RUN convenience brand, enhancing food offerings, and strengthening the Parkland national network for JOURNIE™ Rewards.”
This Acquisition includes 109 company owned sites and 47 dealer locations and is expected to add annual fuel volumes of approximately 400 million litres to our network.
“The Acquisition is a unique opportunity to expand our coverage in markets where Parkland has an existing supply advantage and offsets a portion of our planned organic growth capital,” added Sanker. “We will convert a significant number of the company owned sites to ON the RUN and accelerate our plan to build a network of over 1,000 ON the RUN locations in Canada and the U.S. by 2025.”
The total cash consideration for this transaction is approximately $156 million and reflects a post-synergy multiple consistent with certain prior transactions of approximately 5 times. Subject to approval under the Competition Act (Canada) and other closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close in mid-2022.
About Parkland Corporation Parkland is a leading convenience store operator and independent supplier and marketer of fuel and petroleum products. Parkland services customers across Canada, the United States, the Caribbean region, and the Americas through three channels: Retail, Commercial and Wholesale. Parkland optimizes its fuel supply across these three channels by operating and leveraging a growing portfolio of supply relationships and storage infrastructure. Parkland provides trusted and locally relevant fuel brands and convenience store offerings in the communities it serves.
Parkland creates value for shareholders by focusing on its proven strategy of growing organically, realizing a supply advantage, and acquiring prudently and integrating successfully. At the core of our strategy are our people, as well as our values of safety, integrity, community, and respect, which are embraced across our organization.
Forward Looking Statement Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information and statements (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). When used in this news release the words “expect”, “will”, “could”, “would”, “believe”, “continue”, “pursue” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things, the successful completion of the Acquisition and the timing thereof; expected benefits of the acquisition, including potential organic growth, creating convenience destinations, Parkland’s ability to expand its ON the RUN convenience brand, enhancing its food offer and JOURNIE™ Rewards loyalty program, the expected product volume resulting from the transaction, offset of planned organic growth capital and a post-synergy multiple of approximately 5 times.
These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Parkland does not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements except as may be required by securities law. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of numerous risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, failure to complete the Acquisition; failure to satisfy the conditions to closing of the Acquisition, including approval under the Competition Act (Canada); failure to realize all or any of the anticipated benefits of the Acquisition; general economic, market and business conditions; competitive action by other companies; refining and marketing margins; the ability of suppliers to meet commitments; actions by governmental authorities and other regulators including but not limited to increases in taxes or restricted access to markets; changes and developments in environmental and other regulations; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Parkland. See also the risks and uncertainties described in “Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” included in Parkland’s Annual Information Form dated March 5, 2021, and “Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” included in the Q3 2021 MD&A dated November 2, 2021 and the Q4 2020 MD&A dated March 4, 2021, each filed on SEDAR and available on the Parkland website at www.parkland.ca.
Investor and Media Inquiries: Investor Inquiries: Valerie Roberts, Director, Investor Relations, 403-956-9282, Valerie.Roberts@parkland.ca; Media Inquiries: Simon Scott, Director, Corporate Communications, 403-956-9272, Simon.Scott@parkland.ca
