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Blue Shield of California Recognized as One of the 50 Most Community-Minded Companies in the U.S.

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The Civic 50 - Points of Light

OAKLAND, Calif., June 16, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Blue Shield of California has been named a 2021 honoree of The Civic 50 by Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service.  

The Civic 50 - Points of Light

Since it was launched in 2012, The Civic 50 provides a national standard for corporate citizenship and showcases how companies can use their time, skills and resources to drive social impact in their communities and company.

“Points of Light believes that corporate leadership and commitment to civic engagement is critical to strengthening communities,” said Natalye Paquin, president and CEO, Points of Light. “We thank Blue Shield of California for their investment in the communities where they live and work and look forward to supporting them in leveraging their time, talent and assets to make transformational change.”

One of Blue Shield of California’s crowning achievements has been the 2019 launch of its BlueSky youth mental health initiative. The program is currently providing extra counselors in 20 schools in California, alongside other resources, to boost the emotional well-being of middle and high school students.

Blue Shield has also been very active in corporate giving, funding dozens of nonprofits.   Employees have also pitched in on this effort to support nonprofits to empower all Californians to live their healthiest, most productive and fulfilling lives. 2020 was a record-setting year for both volunteer hours (more than 30,000) and dollars (more than $1,000,000) donated by Blue Shield employees. So far in 2021 more than 60% of Blue Shield employees have donated more than 5,500 volunteer hours and $400,000 (including a company match) to worthy causes.  

“As a mission-driven, nonprofit health plan, Blue Shield of California is committed to improving the health and well-being of all Californians,” said Paul Markovich, president, and CEO of Blue Shield of California. “From youth mental health and climate change to homelessness and COVID-19, we are committed doing all we can to address inequalities and to empower youth to reach their full potential. We are thrilled that our work has been recognized by Points of Light.”

Community groups that work with Blue Shield say the recognition is deserving.

“Our mission has always been to provide housing and supportive services for young people experiencing homeless and trafficking in California. We do this with absolute respect and unconditional love for our young people, but we cannot do that work alone,” said Bill Bedrossian, CEO at Covenant House California. “Fortunately, we have partners like Blue Shield of California who – over the years – have taken a holistic approach to partnership by providing financial support and volunteers.”

“Through the generosity of partners like Blue Shield of California, we’ve been able to continue to deliver culturally competent, tech-focused programming for students around the world,” leaders at the Bay Area non-profit youth program, Black Girls CODE, said in a statement.

The Civic 50 honorees are companies with annual U.S. revenues of at least $1 billion and are selected based on four dimensions of their corporate citizenship and social impact programs – investment of resources, integration across business functions, institutionalization through policies and systems and impact measurement. To learn more about The Civic 50 and see a list of the other 2021 honorees, visit www.Civic50.org.

About Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. Blue Shield of California is a tax paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with over 4.5 million members, over 7,500 employees and more than $21 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid, and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $150 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last four years to have an impact on California communities. 

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.  

Or follow us on LinkedInTwitter, or Facebook.

About Points of Light 
Points of Light is a global nonprofit organization that inspires, equips and mobilizes millions of people to take action that changes the world. We envision a world in which every individual discovers the power to make a difference, creating healthy communities in vibrant, participatory societies. Through 177 affiliates across 38 countries, and in partnership with thousands of nonprofits and corporations, Points of Light engages 5 million volunteers in 16 million hours of service each year. We bring the power of people to bear where it’s needed most. For more information, visit www.pointsoflight.org

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

Blue Shield of California Logo

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SOURCE Blue Shield of California

The American Institute of Architects, California, announces the launch of the tenth Architecture at Zero competition

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SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 15, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — June 15, 2021, the American Institute of Architects, California (AIACA) announces the launch of the tenth annual Architecture at Zero competition focused on decarbonization, equity and resilience in building design. The annual competition is open for entries from students and professionals worldwide.

This year, AIACA will partner with Self Help Enterprises in Visalia, CA, to develop a design challenge to create affordable housing for farmworkers in California’s Central Valley.  Up to $25,000 in prize money, is awarded by a jury of international experts.

“The American Institute of Architects, California is excited to collaborate on this important initiative that affirms the role of architects in leading efforts to use design to curtail climate change,” said Brett Dougherty, AIA, AIACA President.

The competition strives to generate new, innovative, decarbonization building design ideas that respond to equity and resilience and help achieve Californias ambitious energy goals.

“Self Help Enterprises is delighted to participate in the 2021-22 Architecture at Zero competition and receive fresh ideas, thoughts and concepts that can be applied in Visalia and the surrounding San Joaquin Valley,” said Betsy McGovern, Program Director of Real Estate Development.  “There continues to be a huge demand for housing for farmworkers, and this is a unique opportunity to integrate decarbonization and climate resiliency through an equity lens.”

Competition entries will be juried by international experts including:  Paul Torcellini, Principal Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory; Allison Williams, FAIA; AGWms_studio;

Lance Collins, AIA, Director at Partner Energy; and Mary Ann Lazarus, FAIA, Cameron MacAllister Group.  

To learn more, visit www.architectureatzero.com.

This program is funded by California utility customers and administered by Southern California Edison under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.  Cosponsors include: Pacific Gas and Electric Company; San Diego Gas & Electric Company and Southern California Gas Company.

Other sponsors include: the California Energy Commission, US Green Building Council, Central California and the International Building Performance Simulation Association.

SOURCE Architecture at Zero

MoginRubin LLP And Schack Law Group Announce The Class Action Settlement For Minted Customers

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SAN FRANCISCO, June 16, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ —

LEGAL NOTICE

If you were a Minted account holder or have provided Minted your personal information you could get benefits from a class action settlement

A class action settlement has been proposed in litigation against Minted, Inc. (“Minted”) relating to a data breach on or about May 6, 2020 in which malicious actors allegedly accessed Minted customers’ personal information. The settlement will provide payments and credit services to U.S. residents who were Minted online account holders, or provided Minted their name, email address, street address and/or other personal information via email, the Minted website, or other online communications, on or before June 27, 2020. If you qualify, you may submit a claim form requesting benefits, or you can exclude yourself from or object to the settlement. The Court will have a hearing to consider whether to approve the Settlement, so that the benefits may be paid.

WHO’S AFFECTED?
Residents of the United States who had a Minted online account, or provided Minted their name, email address, street address and/or other personal information via email, the Minted website, or other online communications, on or before June 27, 2020.

WHAT’S THIS ABOUT?
The lawsuit claimed that in or about May of 2020, malicious actors accessed Minted customers’ personal information. The stolen personal information included names, email addresses and hashed and salted passwords, and for individuals who provided that information, telephone numbers, billing and shipping addresses and dates of birth. Plaintiffs claimed that Minted failed to adequately protect customers’ sensitive personal information. Minted denies all allegations and has asserted many defenses. The settlement is not an admission of wrongdoing or an indication that any law was violated.

WHAT CAN YOU GET FROM THE SETTLEMENT?
Under the Settlement, Minted will pay $5,000,000 (five million dollars) into a settlement fund to provide payments and other benefits to Settlement Class Members. From the total settlement of $5 million, Class Counsel will request no more than 24% to cover the attorneys’ fees and costs, approximately $200,000 will be used for claims administration and notice to the Settlement Class, approximately $50,000 will be used to pay the cost of credit monitoring services for the Settlement Class, and Class Counsel will seek service awards of $5,000 each for the Class Representatives. The estimated remaining total to be distributed to the Settlement Class is approximately $3,540,000. Class members who submit a valid Claim Form can get:

(1) Payment:  A payment of approximately $43.00, subject to an increase or decrease depending on how many people participate; and
(2) Credit Services:  Two Years of Credit Services, including credit monitoring, fraud alerts, and identity restoration services.

HOW DO YOU GET A PAYMENT?
A detailed notice and claim form provides everything you need. Just visit the settlement website at www.MintedSettlement.com to get more information and file a claim. Claim forms are due by September 16, 2021.

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?
If you do not want to receive a cash payment or other services and you do not want to be legally bound by the settlement, you must exclude yourself by September 16, 2021, or you won’t be able to sue, or continue to sue, Minted about the legal claims in this case. If you do not opt out, you are releasing all claims against Minted based only on the identical facts in this case. If you opt out, you will not be eligible to receive a cash payment or other services from this settlement. If you stay in the Class, you may object to the settlement by September 16, 2021. The detailed Notice describes how to exclude yourself or object. The Court will hold a hearing in this case (Atkinson, et al. v. Minted, Inc., et al., Case No. 3:20-cv-03869-VC) on December 2, 2021 to consider whether to approve the settlement and attorneys’ fees and expenses totaling no more than $1.2 million. You may appear at the hearing, but you do not have to. For more details, call toll free 888-777-9145, go to www.MintedSettlement.com, or write to Minted Settlement, c/o A.B. Data, Ltd., P.O. Box 170500, Milwaukee, WI 53217.

1-888-777-9145
www.MintedSettlement.com

 

SOURCE MoginRubin LLP and Schack Law Group

New Survey from the YMCA Takes a Deep Dive in Understanding Generational, Racial Inequities in Water Safety Education

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New Survey from the YMCA Takes a Deep Dive in Understanding Generational, Racial Inequities in Water Safety Education

Data unveils emotional, physical barriers as key factors in parents’ attitudes and behaviors toward water and water-related activities, including how it affects their children’s water safety and swim abilities.

CHICAGO, June 15, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) today released new data that highlights the personal experiences and barriers parents face when it comes to swimming and water safety. The data, collected from a diverse set of U.S. parents including Black, LatinX/Hispanic and other population segments, shows that nine in 10* parents see swimming as a key life skill for children – on par with first aid skills and the ability to prepare a meal. A deeper dive uncovers the impact of unique generational and racial inequities when it comes to ensuring all parents and children are safe and confident around water, whether it’s a pool, beach, waterpark, or lake front.

New Survey from the YMCA Takes a Deep Dive in Understanding Generational, Racial Inequities in Water Safety Education

According to the CDC, drowning rates for Black people are disproportionately higher than that of white people across all age groups, a rate that has remained largely unchanged, highlighting enduring systemic racism throughout U.S. history. Additionally, according to a national research study conducted by the USA Swimming Foundation with the University of Memphis and University of Nevada-Las Vegas, 60 percent of African American children and 45 percent of Hispanic children cannot swim, compared to 40 percent of Caucasian children. New data from Y-USA underscores that, while affordability and accessibility are major barriers for parents across racial and ethnic backgrounds, unsurprisingly Black parents surveyed are more likely than other U.S. parents surveyed, to associate bodies of water and water activities with negative feelings, including caution, anxiety and fear.

Other key findings from Y-USA’s survey include:

  • While the majority of parents show interest in signing up for water safety programs, one in two parents believe water safety classes are expensive, and nearly three in 10 (32%) state that water safety isn’t a priority due to affordability concerns.
    • This concern around affordability is especially higher among LatinX/Hispanic parents (36%) in comparison to the other groups, including Black parents and a segmentation of the U.S. parent population surveyed.
  • Black parents are 1.6 times more likely, in comparison to the U.S. parent population surveyed, to report having low confidence with water or water activities.
    • This corresponds with supporting data that 44 percent of Black parents’ self-report to have only beginner or no swimming abilities, a nearly 20 percentage point difference in comparison to the overall U.S. parent population and subset of LatinX/Hispanic parents surveyed.
  • Nine in 10 U.S. parents see swimming as a key life skill for children, on par with first aid skills or being able to prepare a simple meal, Black parents surveyed are less likely to encourage their children’s participation in water activities.
    • Parents also rank swimming/water safety skills as more important than being proficient in STEM, arts and music, team sports or wilderness survival.
  • Nearly 60 percent of Black parents have negative associations towards lakes, rivers, beaches or the ocean and 40 percent have negative sentiments toward pools.

“We know from the USA Swimming Foundation that if a parent does not know how to swim, there is only a 13 percent chance that their child will learn how to swim, however, we must analyze this data point in the context of American history,” said Lindsay Mondick, director of innovative priorities at YMCA of the USA. “There is a history of exclusion associated with swimming pools, in particular, that has contributed to some of the racial inequities we see in data associated with drownings. With a footprint as significant as the Y’s, it is our responsibility to help break down those barriers and engage in these conversations to ultimately address the impact of these inequities including, fears, stressors and behaviors that Black and LatinX/Hispanic adults in particular have with water.”

More than 100 years ago, the Y created the concept of group swim lessons and, to this day, teaches more than one million children invaluable water safety and swimming skills each year. The Y, as a vital community asset, recognizes that its size and reach uniquely positions the organization to bridge the gap in the delivery of swim lessons and water safety education. Given that there are 2,600 Ys serving 10,000 communities across the country, with its that reach and presence, the Y has a responsibility in acknowledging, recognizing, and understanding the emotional barriers at play to provide the right resources, build trust and, ultimately, enable families to feel comfortable and confident around all bodies of water.

The Y offers two programs intended to help children have fun, be confident and stay safe including Y Swim Lessons across three general categories, from 6 months to adults, and a specific drowning prevention class, Safety Around Water, a free program for children ages 4-14 as well as adults in select locations. To learn more about water safety at the Y, please visit https://www.ymca.net/watersafety. Those interested in enrollment are encouraged to visit their local Y-USA for further details, including financial assistance and/or scholarships available to those who qualify.

*The YMCA study was conducted in partnership with Edelman and its research group Edelman Data & Intelligence (DxI). Insights were collected via a 10-minute online survey fielded in May 2021 (between 05/05/21-05/21/21). The survey was conducted among N=500 US parents with children under the age of 18 (matching US census profiles) in addition to N=250 audience oversamples among Black and Hispanic/Latinx parents. Black and Hispanic/Latinx respondents were analyzed across the general pool of parents and oversample groups for a total sample of N= 309 Black and N= 335 LatinX/Hispanic parents.

About the YMCA
Driven by its founding mission, the Y has served as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community for more than 175 years. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, by ensuring access to resources, relationships, and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y’s goal is to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across 10,000 communities nationwide. ymca.net

Contact:
Emily Waldren
Senior Manger Public Relations
(312) 419-8756
[email protected]

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1533338/YMCA_Infographic.jpg

SOURCE YMCA of the USA

The Makers of the HERDEZ® Brand and DONA MARIA® Brand Announce Sponsorship for Qualitas of Life Foundation and “Arap en Mandil” Culinary Series

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HERDEZ Brand Logo

ORANGE, Calif., June 16, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The makers of the HERDEZ® brand, the No. 1 selling salsa brand in Mexico and a growing staple in kitchens across the United States, and the DONA MARIA® brand, the No. 1 mole brand in Mexico, today announced its sponsorship for Qualitas of Life Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides financial workshops and sessions to Hispanic individuals and their families in order to foster their financial independence, as well as its culinary series, Arap en Mandil. The financial courses include workshops, key advice sessions, financial education fairs and more. The four-part series, hosted by actor Arap Bethke and various chefs passionate about Latin American cuisine, features Bethke and his guest chefs sharing favorite recipes, personal finance tips and inspirational stories. During the sponsored second episode, Bethke and Chef Ruffo Ibarra will be cooking Chorizo with Potatoes, featuring HERDEZ® Chipotle Salsa Cremosa and DONA MARIA® Nopalitos.

HERDEZ Brand Logo

“Ensuring financial understanding and know-how is of the utmost importance,” said Giselle Olson, brand manager of the HERDEZ® brand. “Qualitas of Life’s workshops and online courses provide the opportunity for Hispanic families to fully understand financial resources available to them. We are proud to play a small part in helping these individuals become financially savvy.” Sponsorship by the makers of the HERDEZ® brand will provide scholarships for more than 650 Hispanic individuals to enroll in a free, bilingual course or workshop, ultimately improving their financial competence and standard of living.

HERDEZ® brand is encouraging people to tune in to the second episode, “Cooking Traditions with Ruffo Ibarra,” which will air Wednesday, June 16, from 5-6 p.m. PST, and consider contributing to this worthy cause. To register for the free event, please visit here.

For more information on the HERDEZ® brand, including recipes, nutritional information, where to buy and more, please visit www.herdeztraditions.com, or follow the brand on social media on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter.


ABOUT THE HERDEZ® BRAND

The HERDEZ® brand allows consumers to experience the real flavor and culture of Mexico at home with authentic salsas and sauces. The HERDEZ® brand is the No. 1 selling salsa brand in Mexico and the leading authentic Mexican salsa brand in homes across the US. Best known for products such as HERDEZ® Salsa Verde, Salsa Casera and the original Guacamole Salsa, the HERDEZ® brand is founded on authenticity in flavor and quality you can trust. Innovative authentic flavor experiences is at the forefront of their success. The HERDEZ® brand is part of MegaMex Foods, one of the fastest growing Mexican food companies in the US focused on reimagining Mexican flavor. For more information and recipe ideas, visit http://www.herdeztraditions.com or follow the HERDEZ® brand on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter.


ABOUT THE DONA MARIA® BRAND

When it comes to world-famous mole pastes and tender nopalitos, DONA MARIA® brand has been Mexico’s favorite brand for 80 years. Made with rich, flavorful ingredients such as fiery ancho chiles, pasilla chiles, peanuts, chocolate, seeds and a blend of signature Mexican spices, DONA MARIA® mole features a smooth, slow-cooked flavor, making it the No.1 mole brand in Mexico today. Based on authenticity, this robust sauce is remarkably easy to use delivering a unique homemade flavor to any dish. DONA MARIA® authentic Mexican products are available nationwide at major grocery stores.


ABOUT MEGAMEX FOODS, LLC.

MegaMex Foods, one of the fastest growing Mexican food companies in the US, is focused on reimagining Mexican flavor in restaurants and home kitchens across the country. MegaMex Foods is proudly committed to authentic ingredients and providing a real solution for achieving true Mexican flavors with trusted products including WHOLLY®, LA VICTORIA®, HERDEZ®, EMBASA®, DOÑA MARIA®, BÚFALO® and DON MIGUEL® brands. Founded by Herdez del Fuerte and Hormel Foods, MegaMex Foods is headquartered in Orange, California, with facilities in Texas and Mexico. MegaMex Foods has two operating plants, numerous manufacturing partners and over 4,000 employees. For more information, visit www.megamexfoods.com and www.mmxfoodservice.com.

Source: MegaMex Foods

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1501528/Herdez_Logo.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1533132/Logos_Menu_Dona_Maria_Logo.jpg 

SOURCE HERDEZ Brand

Marcus Ericsson, Honda Win Opening Round of Detroit Doubleheader

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Marcus_Ericsson_IndyCar_win

DETROIT, June 12, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Taking advantage of a late-race mechanical problem for Will Power, Chip Ganassi Racing’s Marcus Ericsson leapt to the front of the field following the second of two red flag race stoppages to win the opening round of the Detroit Grand Prix NTT INDYCAR SERIES weekend.  The victory is the first for Ericsson, now in his third season of Indy car competition, the third for Chip Ganassi Racing this season and the fifth for Honda.

Marcus_Ericsson_IndyCar_win

The 70-lap contest was stopped twice, first on Lap 24 for a single-car crash that sent Felix Rosenqvist hard into the Turn 6 retaining wall.  Rosenqvist was alert and conscious following the impact, but was transported to a local hospital for additional evaluation.

Running a close second to race leader Power in the closing laps, a second red flag – for Romain Grojean’s single-car crash – stopped the race with just seven laps remaining.  A mechanical issue for Power prevented him from taking the restart, and Ericsson led the rest of the way to take the checkers by 1.7 seconds over Rinus VeeKay. 

Following Ericsson, the Rahal Letterman Lanigan trio of Takuma Sato, Graham Rahal and Santino Ferrucci finished fourth through sixth, respectively. 

Detroit Grand Prix Race 1 Honda Results

– 1st Marcus Ericsson

Chip Ganassi Racing Honda

– 4th Takuma Sato

Rahal Letterman Lanigan Honda

–  5th Graham Rahal

Rahal Letterman Lanigan Honda

– 6th Santino Ferrucci

Rahal Letterman Lanigan Honda

– 7th Alexander Rossi

Andretti Autosport Honda

– 8th Scott Dixon

Chip Ganassi Racing Honda

– 9th Ed Jones

Dale Coyne Racing with Vasser-Sullivan Honda

– 14th Colton Herta

Andretti Autosport Honda

– 15th Alex Palou

Chip Ganassi Racing Honda

– 16th Jack Harvey

Meyer Shank Racing Honda

– 17th James Hinchcliffe

Andretti Autosport Honda

– 23rd Romain Grosjean-R

Dale Coyne Racing with RWR Honda

– 21st Ryan Hunter-Reay

Andretti Autosport Honda

– 24th Jimmie Johnson-R

Chip Ganassi Racing Honda

NTT INDYCAR SERIES Manufacturers’ Championship (unofficial, after 7 rounds)

Honda

576 pts

Chevrolet

556

NTT INDYCAR SERIES Drivers’ Championship (unofficial, after 7 rounds)

1. Alex Palou, Chip Ganassi Racing Honda

263 [1 race win]

2. Pato O’Ward, Arrow McLaren SP

248 [1 race win]

3. Scott Dixon, Chip Ganassi Racing Honda

237 points [1 win]

Quotes

Marcus Ericsson (Chip Ganassi Racing Honda) Started 15th, finished first, first career INDYCAR win in his third season with the series: “The team’s done such a great job, the Husky’s Chocolate crew and Honda, everyone on the [timing] stand and in the pits. It’s a team effort.  Obviously, I feel bad for Will [Power, who was unable to take the final restart due to a mechanical issue], but it was my day today.  For once, the luck was on my side and I have to say it was about time!”

Piers Phillips (President, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing) On placing three cars in the top six today: “Well, what a day.  We definitely had some challenges in qualifying, so to bring all three cars home fourth, fifth and sixth is a credit to the team. I think it’s a credit to the guys that drove them [Graham Rahal, Takuma Sato and Santino Ferrucci], particularly in the difficult conditions we had today.  But now the focus is on tomorrow [and the second race] and the goal is to finish one-two-three rather than four-five-six.”

Kelvin Fu (Program Director, Honda Performance Development) on today’s Honda win in Detroit: “I guess you can say ‘the red flag giveth, and the red flag taketh away’.  First, and most important, it appears that [Arrow McLaren SP driver] Felix Rosenqvist escaped serious injury in his massive crash. The first red flag [for the Rosenqvist crash] effectively ended the victory chances for several of our drivers, including Scott Dixon and Alexander Rossi.  But the late race stoppage, and Will Power’s subsequent mechanical problem, opened the door for Marcus Ericsson to score an overdue first victory, a great result for Marcus and the #8 Chip Ganassi Racing team. It also is the first victory for HPD’s Nicole Rotondo, trackside engineer for Marcus.”

Fast Facts

  • With Ericsson’s win today, seven different drivers – from seven different countries – have won the first seven races of 2021, tying the post-war record for different INDYCAR SERIES winners to start a season.
  • In addition to Brazilian Helio Castroneves’ historic win last month at the Indianapolis 500, other Honda race winners this year include current championship points leader, Spaniard Alex Palou (Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama); defending and six-time champion Scott Dixon (Texas Race 1) from New Zealand; and American Colton Herta (Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg).
  • Honda continues to hold the mid-season lead in the 2021 INDYCAR Manufacturers’ Championship, with five victories in the first seven races. Honda has a 20-point advantage (576-556) over rival Chevrolet. The company is seeking its fourth consecutive NTT INDYCAR SERIES Manufacturers’ Championship in 2021.
  • Honda-powered drivers have now won six of the last seven Indy car events run on the Belle Isle Park street circuit.

Next

NTT INDYCAR SERIES racing activities on Belle Isle Park continue tomorrow with the second round of the doubleheader weekend. Sunday’s 70-lap closer starts at 12 p.m. EDT with live television coverage again on NBC.

Honda Racing social media content and video links from Detroit can be found on Instagram (www.instagram.com/hondaracing_hpd), Twitter (twitter.com/HondaRacing_HPD) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/HondaRacingHPD).  Additional features and long-form videos can be found on the Honda Racing/HPD YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/HondaRacingHPDTV).

Photo:
https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1532132/Marcus_Ericsson_IndyCar_win.jpg
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/83597/honda_performance_development__inc__honda_racing_logo.jpg

honda_performance_development__inc__honda_racing_logo

SOURCE Honda Racing/HPD

New Campaign Facilitates Free Home HIV Self Testing Kits

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HIV-Testing-Day-EN

WASHINGTON, June 15, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — With national attention focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, World Voices Media/Pinyon Foundation together with La Red Hispana-Hispanic Communications Network, launched today a new multimedia campaign in Spanish keep the guard up to end the HIV epidemic in the United States and to encourage Hispanic communities to get tested for HIV as the first step.

The campaign “My test, my way” is coordinated with the support of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and seeks to encourage Latinos and Latinas of all ages to get tested for HIV at home, with a family doctor, in a clinic, by ourselves or in the company of loved ones, to learn what our HIV status is, and where appropriate, obtain care and treatment.

The self-testing kits can be ordered free of charge using the platform Take Me Home, which is offered in both English and Spanish language. The program is for anybody aged 17 or older, who lives in the United States (including Puerto Rico) and who have not used the program recently. This program is funded in part by the Minority HIV/AIDS Fund.

“Although the COVID pandemic continues to capture our attention, the reality is that there are other health challenges for us Hispanics. The new campaign makes the information and resources available to get tested for HIV as if it were any other routine health exam,” said Mariana Nonino, Pinyon Foundation/World Voices Media PACT Program Coordinator.

The campaign coincides with the celebration of National HIV Testing Day, on June 27, and offers Public Service Announcements (PSA’s), messages on digital platforms and social networks, as well as interviews and collaborations with activists from Health Departments and Community-Based Organizations to raise awareness about the importance of HIV testing and early diagnosis.

The messages provide Latinos and Latinas with the information they need to decide which HIV test is the most appropriate for their lifestyle and personal situation, and underline that getting tested is now easier than ever with self-testing kits.

Although the CDC believes that we are closer than ever to ending the HIV epidemic, official figures show that Latino communities in the United States are being disproportionately affected by the incidence of HIV: Hispanics account for a quarter of all new infections of the virus, despite accounting for 18% of the country’s population.

The new campaign will be broadcast through all 190 affiliated stations of La Red Hispana, as well as on its mobile and social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and in its flagship programs such as Welcome to America, Dra. Isabel, In Private, with Dr. Eduardo López-Navarro among others.

For more information on the campaign in Spanish, visit LaRedHispana.com.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1534052/HIV_Testing_Day_EN.jpg

SOURCE Hispanic Communications Network

Employ Prince George’s Launches Encore, a Job Seeker Program Giving Experienced Workers, 50+, the Competitive Edge in a New Economy

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Encore Experienced Workers Program

LARGO, Md., June 14, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Employ Prince George’s (EPG) announced the launch of their Encore (Experienced Worker) Program, a rebrand of a pilot effort championed by the Maryland Department of Labor, the Older Workers Program. This new development introduces a refreshed and revitalized approach to meeting the needs of experienced workers in Prince George’s County. The Encore Program is Employ Prince George’s demographic-specific workforce development programming that provides job seekers over the age of 50 with free customized career counseling, occupational skills training, and supportive services to holistically help them re-enter the workforce, compete in the ever-evolving world, and obtain livable wage careers. “Ability is ageless. Workers over the age of 50 have the experience and skills to help our businesses grow and be successful. Through Encore we will be able to help them connect their decades of experience and knowledge to businesses that are reopening from Covid-19 closure,” said EPG CEO Walter Simmons.

Encore Experienced Workers Program

Older adults from all walks of life are returning to the workforce, for various reasons. Many employers value the knowledge, maturity, and work ethic that experienced workers offer; however, it is not easy, particularly for adults over age 50, to find a job. Studies show that entering or re-entering the workforce at late ages in life is more difficult than any other age group. Older adults, however, have something that younger workers do not have, EXPERIENCE!

“A study from the National Bureau of Economic Research has found that age discrimination rises hand in hand with the unemployment rate,” states EPG President and CEO, Walter L. Simmons, “With such a devastating unemployment rate in the wake of COVID-19, older workers tend to be the last hired back and the first fired. At Employ Prince George’s, we’re combatting age discrimination by preparing our 50+ age job seekers with the tools, communication skills, technological skills, and the understanding to succeed.”

Encore will assist older workers in gaining a greater understanding of the current labor market and how to nagivate a digital world. Employ Prince George’s will assist them in developing their computer skills, packaging and promoting their valuable skills into a resume, help them increase their skills through training, and capitalize on the knowledge a 50+ job seekers has to offer. Residents who are interested in enrolling in Employ Prince George’s Encore Program or those who would like more information regarding Employ Prince George’s services and offerings, should visit www.EmployPG.org/Encore, call EPG at (301) 618-8445, or email EPG at [email protected].

EMPLOY Prince George’s (EPG) provides workforce intelligence and solutions for job seekers and businesses. EPG’s mission is to contribute to the economic vitality of Prince George’s County by providing a demand-driven system that delivers qualified workers to business and provides job seekers with opportunities for careers in high-demand/high-growth industries.

For more information, please visit www.employpg.org.

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Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1532863/EPG_Encore_Flyer.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1520107/EPG_Logo.jpg

 

SOURCE Employ Prince George’s

The Bell Rings to Celebrate FUNO’s Ten Years at the Mexican Stock Exchange

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FUNO celebrates ten years on the Mexican Stock Exchange.

MEXICO CITY, June 15, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — El-Mann Arazi’s Fibra Uno (FUNO) began as the first Real Estate Investment Trust in 2011 with a mere 13 properties. As of May 3, 2021, FUNO celebrated ten years of being listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV). The company’s portfolio now holds over 600 properties including commercial centers, offices, industrial parks, and others. Andre El-Mann Arazi, CEO and Director of FUNO, while proud of the accomplishments thus far, believes they must continue to invest in Mexico. El-Mann stated, “We have done many things in 10 years, but the truth is that I am very pleased with what we do for Mexico; I love it. I wanted to go faster to help Mexico continue to grow”.

FUNO celebrates ten years on the Mexican Stock Exchange.

FUNO was the first Fibra in the BMV, which facilitated other property managers and developers to join the market. Investors have a wide range of options, as the company’s portfolio possesses real estate and development projects in a variety of real estate segments, primarily the office, commercial, and industrial segments. FUNO concentrates on the acquisition of properties, property management, and operation and development of real estate in strategic locations.

In its lifetime, FUNO’s occupancy levels reached some of the highest in the industry at 93.3 percent. Weathering the convoluted times of the pandemic, FUNO reports occupancy at 92.5% for the first quarter of 2021; still a remarkable figure. The drop in the occupancy percentage was found mostly in the office and industrial segments as so many people were quarantined.

The El-Mann Arazi family leads Fibra Uno. Andre El-Mann Arazi, Max El-Mann Arazi, and Moises El-Mann Arazi have considerable experience in all areas of the real estate sector making them invaluable heads of the company. FUNO is now recognized as the largest FIBRA in Latin America, despite the challenges faced during the pandemic this past year.

El-Mann Arazi’s impact on the company, its employees, and the country of Mexico is evidenced by a quote from the deputy director-general of FUNO, Gonzalo Robina. He asserts, “Working at Fibra Uno means following the example that the El-Mann family gives us every day, which is professionalism, struggle, leadership, vision, passion, but above all tireless work and love for Mexico“. FUNO and the El-Mann Arazi Family have much to be proud of as they celebrate this momentous occasion of ten years on the Mexican Stock Exchange.

About the El-Mann Arazi
Andre El-Mann Arazi has served as the CEO and Director of Fibra Uno since 2014 and boasts 30 years of experience in the real estate sector. He successfully acquires properties and projects, and he raises capital to develop large-scale real estate projects. Additionally, Andre El-Mann is co-founder of Grupo E, one of Mexico’s most prominent real estate groups.  He also serves as a member of the board for each of the companies that comprise Grupo E.

Max El-Mann Arazi is the director of the company. His past experiences in the retail sector have made him a very valuable component of the team.  He has proven his ability to meet specific customer needs in the industrial and retail segments. Max El-Mann’s focus is managing industrial properties, managing real estate projects in residential, industrial, office, and retail segments, and acquiring new properties at various stages.

Moises El-Mann Arazi possesses forty years of real estate experience and serves as Chairman of the Board of FUNO and is President of the Technical Committee. Moises El-Mann is also co-founder of Grupo E. He is a proven leader, assuming the role for all of Grupo E’s projects. He also developed over 170 real estate projects in Mexico. Moises El-Mann has played a critical role as he has cultivated funds for expansive projects in Mexico and abroad.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1533764/Fibra_Uno_Building.jpg

SOURCE El-Mann Arazi