Nearly 70% of Women of Color Small Business Owners Saw an Average Revenue Decline of 46% During the Pandemic, New Caress and IFundWomen of Color Research Shows

March 18, 2021

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., March 18, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — For the past year, crisis after crisis, including the fight against racial injustice and the pandemic, relentlessly challenged communities and impacted their livelihood – especially for women of color. New research from Caress and IFundWomen of Color shows the COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened these gaps. Nearly 70% of women of color small business owners surveyed saw their revenue diminish in 2020 – and of those, they saw an average decline of 46%.

In partnership with IFundWomen of Color, the leading platform for diverse entrepreneurs to raise capital, Caress is unveiling new data revealing the ongoing challenges women of color entrepreneurs are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic at the Caress x IFundWomen of Color Virtual Summit.

Today’s half-day virtual summit will unmask the collective barriers to success including lack of resources and navigating systems of inequity, while helping entrepreneurs navigate the path forward through a series of learning sessions and intimate fireside chats led by women in leadership, including Esi Eggleston Bracey, EVP & COO NA Beauty and Personal Care, Unilever.

Financial support was amongst the biggest challenges cited in the research report and will be addressed head on in the virtual summit. While some businesses found respite and access to federal funding to keep their businesses afloat, many women of color-owned small businesses continued to struggle. 81% did not receive emergency government assistance to support their business in 2020 with 49% relying on their personal savings.

“Women of Color and their businesses have suffered disproportionately during this pandemic and receiving grants and aid through federal relief programs has been challenging for many,” said Esi Eggleston Bracey, EVP & COO North American Beauty and Personal Care, Unilever. “Last year, through our partnership with IFundWomen of Color, Caress committed $1,000,000 to support women of color entrepreneurs over the next two years including immediate relief directly going towards small businesses impacted by economic strain due to COVID-19 and the biases of systemic racism. This new research further proves how imperative it is to continue to support women of color entrepreneurs through their journey and we’re proud to use the Caress x IFundWomen of Color Virtual Summit as a platform to create a space of equity and drive such an important conversation.”

Despite the challenges faced, women of color small business owners are hopeful, 60% of women of color business owners expect revenues to improve this year, and 73% of those whose businesses have been negatively impacted by the pandemic believe their businesses will fully recover by Spring 2022.

Most of the women surveyed cite community support and access to education and funding as the main drivers on the road to recovery.

“COVID-19 has hit women of color-owned small businesses hard, but we’re optimistic they can and will recover. Through IFundWomen’s partnership with Caress, we’re proud to continue offering our growing community of diverse entrepreneurs access to capital through crowdfunding and grants, expert business coaching, and connections to follow-on capital, collaborators, and new partnerships,” said Olivia Owens, Creator and General Manager of IFundWomen of Color. “While 70% of women surveyed say the support of their peers was crucial to starting or maintaining their business in 2020, 2 in 5 feel disconnected from other women of color entrepreneurs and do not have people in their day-to-day network to collaborate with and problem-solve. The goal of today’s virtual summit, as well as one of our overarching goals of IFundWomen of Color, is to offer a space for women to cultivate meaningful conversations and relationships that will help them continue to advance.”

To join the summit, RSVP at caressvirtualsummit.splashthat.com, and follow the #caressxifwoc hashtag on Twitter and Instagram.

For more information on the Caress and IFundWomen of Color partnership, including COVID-19 relief grants and the Dream to Reality Fund, please visit ifundwomen.com/woc.

Follow @Caress on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter
Follow @IFundWomen on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter

For additional information contact:
Kirby Brewster
Account Supervisor, Edelman
[email protected]

About Caress®
Caress®, a U.S. Unilever beauty brand and trusted name for more than 30 years, is known for products that give women gorgeous skin they will want to flaunt. Offering an exceptional variety, Caress® beauty bars and body washes leave your skin feeling instantly moisturized and are paired with exquisite fragrances so women can have it all. Caress® has been committed to creating products that turn every shower into a fully immersive sensorial experience – moments that are proven to spur creativity. It’s what inspires Caress’ belief that no great idea should go down the drain. Caress® is committed to helping women, particularly women of color, take their ideas from dreams to reality. Visit www.caress.us for more information.

About IFundWomen of Color
Launched in January 2020, IFundWomen of Color is a platform dedicated to advancing BIPOC entrepreneurs through access to capital, coaching, and lucrative connections specifically needed for women of color to launch and grow successful businesses. After its first year in existence, IFundWomen of Color leveled the funding field across the IFundWomen platform. Learn more at www.IFundWomen.com /woc

About Unilever North America
Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of Beauty & Personal Care, Home Care, and Foods & Refreshment products, with sales in over 190 countries and products used by 2.5 billion people every day. We have 149,000 employees and generated sales of €50.7 billion in 2020. Over half of our footprint is in developing and emerging markets. We have around 400 brands found in homes all over the world. In the United States and Canada, the portfolio includes iconic brand such as: Dove, Knorr, Hellmann’s, Lipton, Magnum, Axe, Ben & Jerry’s, Degree, Dollar Shave Club, Q-tips, Seventh Generation, St. Ives, Suave, TRESemmé, and Vaseline.

Our vision is to be the global leader in sustainable business and to demonstrate how our purpose-led, future-fit business model drives superior performance. We have a long tradition of being a progressive, responsible business. It goes back to the days of our founder William Lever, who launched the world’s first purposeful brand, Sunlight Soap, more than 100 years ago, and it’s at the heart of how we run our company today.

The Unilever Compass, our sustainable business strategy, is set out to help us deliver superior performance and drive sustainable and responsible growth, while:

improving the health of the planet;
improving people’s health, confidence and wellbeing; and
contributing to a fairer and more socially inclusive world.

While there is still more to do, we are proud to have been recognized in 2020 as a sector leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and – for the tenth-consecutive year – as the top ranked company in the 2020 GlobeScan/SustainAbility Sustainability Leaders survey.

For more information on Unilever U.S. and its brands visit: www.unileverusa.com
For more information on Unilever Canada and its brands visit: www.unilever.ca

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1458808/Caress_IFWOC.jpg

SOURCE Caress

Pepsi® to Introduce First Permanent Flavored Cola in Five Years – Pepsi Mango.

March 18, 2021

PURCHASE, New York, March 18, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, Pepsi is excited to announce the nationwide rollout of Pepsi Mango, the brand’s first new permanent flavored cola in five years. Surprising? Yes. Delicious? Heck yes. The bright citrus and rich caramel notes of an ice-cold Pepsi create the perfect cola base for the ripe, juicy flavors that make mango so irresistible. Beginning Monday, March 22, Pepsi Mango will be available nationwide for all to enjoy this surprising mix of cola and tropical fruit flavor. This new flavor launch also marks the brand’s first permanent release of a Regular and Zero Sugar variety at the same time, designed to support consumers’ growing preference for sugar-free offerings, without having to sacrifice great taste.

To support the launch, Pepsi created a new national TV commercial which will also run digitally. Set to the uplifting top 40 hit “Take You Dancing” by award-winning superstar Jason Derulo, the spot shows a mango pop out of a fruit bowl and roll over to its perfect match – a can of Pepsi – to create the exciting new flavor, Pepsi Mango.

“Our consumers are always looking for new and exciting flavors, so we couldn’t be more excited to introduce them to Pepsi Mango. Our team has created a surprisingly perfect match with Pepsi Mango, combining the delicious taste of Pepsi cola with the flavor of a sweet, juicy mango,” said Todd Kaplan, Vice President of Marketing – Pepsi. “Mango is one of the most popular fruits in the world, and it serves as the perfect complement to Pepsi, creating an irresistible combination that our fans can enjoy everywhere throughout the year.”

After proving some of the most perfect pairings can be found in the most unlikely places (or sips), Pepsi Mango is launching a new campaign dedicated to helping real people find their perfect match, even with the most surprising person. Dating has never been more challenging, with an overwhelming number of apps and platforms, yet minimal in-person interactions and not many opportunities for “meet cutes.” So, in early April, Pepsi is turning its advertising inventory on select social media platforms into real dating advertorials for a handful of interesting, young singles. The series, partly inspired by the video dating fad of the 80’s, will introduce the singles to the world with fun personality introductions and contact information so other singles at home can shoot their shot. Pepsi Mango will create avenues to ‘ship as many pairs as possible, all to help singles find their perfect match, like Pepsi and mango.

When it comes to creating surprising perfect matches, Pepsi Mango knows no bounds. Next month, Pepsi, together with longtime partners at ViacomCBS and its in-house branded content studio, Velocity, will unveil a fully integrated perfect match themed series starring some of the most adored dating reality show stars. Fans should stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks.

Beginning Monday, March 22, Pepsi Mango will be widely available at grocery stores, mass retailers and convenience stores nationwide in Regular and Zero Sugar varieties, in 12oz 12 packs and 20oz bottles.

About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $70 billion in net revenue in 2020, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker, Tropicana and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 23 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Convenient Foods and Beverages by Winning with Purpose. “Winning with Purpose” reflects our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace and embed purpose into all aspects of our business strategy and brands. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAcvwV5d8mY
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1458857/Pepsi_Mango_The_Perfect_Match.jpg

SOURCE PepsiCo Beverages North America

Raúl López’s New Book El Vuelo De La Mariposa Monarca, An Educational Narrative About The Amazing Life And Behavioral Patterns Of Monarch Butterflies

March 18, 2021

MCALLEN, Texas, March 18, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The book El vuelo de la mariposa monarca was created by Raúl López. Raúl is an author who was born in Ciudad Reynosa, Tamaulipas on January 22, 1966. He completed his studies as a dental surgeon at the University of Veracruz. In 1993 he Dr. Sandra Villarreal, producing two children. From 1998 to 2000 he completed his doctorate in the specialty of orthodontics at CASAE Monterrey, Mexico. From 2007 to 2009 he did a doctorate in the specialty of Maxillary Orthopedics at AMOM Monterrey, Mexico.

Raúl López said this about his book: “This story tells the migration of the monarch butterflies from Canada through the United States and their final destination, Mexico, combined with the efforts, obstacles, weather, and the great distance they travel with addition of fictional adventures to give a fun and entertaining journey into history.

At the same time, the readers will know and learn how they travel and what routes they have already drawn throughout their travels for thousands of years to reach their destination as well as the ten life tips that will serve to be a winner.”

Published by Page Publishing, Raúl López’s new book El vuelo de la mariposa monarca shares an in-depth look into the life of monarch butterflies through time, especially during their migration to faraway places.

Consumers who wish to learn about butterflies and their lifespans can purchase El vuelo de la mariposa monarca online at Apple iTunes, Amazon.com, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries, you can contact Page Publishing, through the following number: 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional full-service publishing house that handles all of 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 bogged down with complicated business issues like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and the like. Its roster of authors can leave behind these tedious, complex, and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at www.pagepublishing.com.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1457437/Raul_Lopez.jpg

SOURCE Page Publishing

Oscar H. Rojas’s New Book El Mundo Del Vino Y Su Degustación, A Well-Conceived Book About The Luxury And Benefits Of Wine For Ordinary Citizens

March 18, 2021

TAMPA, Fla., March 18, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The book El mundo del vino y su degustación was created by Oscar H. Rojas. Oscar is an author and university professor as well as a member of the Wine Committee of the Colombian Institute of Technical Standards ICONTEC and executive director of the Colombian Corporation of Wine Producers CORPOVINOS; the Colombian Association of Importers of Wines and Liquors ACODIL; and the Federation Nacional de Comerciantes FENALCO, Bogotá-Cundinamarca section.

Rojas said this about his book: “Wine, a noble and civilized drink, gives us health and joy, improving our meetings. Learn to taste it—art, science, and sensory pleasure. With more than 150,000 references on the market, the old world and the new world offer us a varied range of extraordinary wines.

Do not deprive yourself of this pleasure, once reserved for kings, heads of state, aristocrats, and specialized personnel. Today knowledge belongs to everyone who wants it, and this guide provides it. Health!”

Published by Page Publishing, Oscar H. Rojas’s new book El mundo del vino y su degustación encourages people to enjoy the blessing of all varieties of wine that has brought positive well-being since ancient times.

Consumers who wish to learn about the magnificence of wine to the individual and society can purchase El mundo del vino y su degustación in any bookstore or online at Apple iTunes, Amazon.com, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries, you can contact Page Publishing, through the following number: 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1457409/Oscar_H_Rojas.jpg

SOURCE Page Publishing

2022 Stinger Overview

March 18, 2021

IRVINE, Calif., March 16, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ —

Stinger elevates “the game” with distinctive LED exterior lighting, new geometric alloy wheels, and more aggressive quad exhaust design
GT-Line joins the high-horsepower club with a potent 2.5-liter turbo-four-cylinder engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque; gaining 45-HP from the outgoing 2.0T with no sacrifice in fuel economy
GT’s 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 ups performance with a bump in power and is complemented by a new electronic variable exhaust for an even more visceral experience
Befitting of a gran tourer, Stinger’s interior refinement and luxury evolves with black gloss and chrome garnishes in the cockpit, a new standard 10.25-inch navigation display, enhanced LED ambient mood lighting and a new Nappa leather seat design
Kia’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Auto Emergency Braking Technology, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance, and Lane Keeping Assist are now all standard

The Stinger established a new era in Kia’s history when it debuted in 2017 as a 2018 model, but that was just the start of the story. It “crashed the party” in a way never expected and converted enthusiasts stuck in the old “German is better” doctrine. For 2022, Stinger continues to evolve and maintain its position as Kia’s halo sport sedan while pushing frontiers in expected style, performance and engineering. It’s been revamped with new exterior design details that offer a more upscale appearance, enhanced performance thanks to a more powerful standard engine, and an unparalleled driving experience with several technologically advanced driver assistance systems as standard.

“The Stinger confidently shows Kia’s ability to build a sport sedan that can compete – and beat – the best the world has to offer. It is definitive proof of our proud and evolving engineering prowess,” said Sean Yoon, president & CEO, Kia Motors North American and Kia Motors America. “We continue to push Stinger to new heights as it is the catalyst behind our dynamic model lineup, from the award-winning Telluride to the highly praised K5. The Kia Stinger is world-class, and the refreshed 2022 model continues to evolve expectations.”

The 2022 Stinger will arrive this spring and be available in GT-Line, GT1, and GT2 trims, with a special edition Scorpion model released at a later date. Watch the exciting 2022 Stinger reveal here.

In True Sport Sedan Fashion

Building off a design hailed for its enthusiastic spirit and perfect sense of proportion, subtle styling enhancements focus on Stinger’s premium and performance-oriented appearance. Along with Kia’s dynamic new logo that adorns the center of the hood and wheel caps, changes to the exterior include:

Standard LED headlamps with a new DRL signature or optional “Stinger-signature” LED DRLs and headlights
Standard rear LED taillamps bridged by an eye-catching new taillight design that spans the full width of the liftgate; GT trims get a full LED treatment with LED turn signals
New 18- and 19-inch wheel designs defined by lean and technical geometric shapes
More aggressive exhaust tip design for enhanced visual appeal

Stinger’s interior upgrades sharpen the renowned driver-centric experience:

Black gloss and chrome details on the instrument panel add a touch of polish
Modern stitching pattern on inside door panels casts a striking effect inside the GT; GT models with Nappa leather surfaces gain a new “chain link” design inspired by the wristbands found on high-end watches
Ambient LED mood cabin lighting with vibrant selection of colors

The Scorpion Special Edition set to arrive this late Spring further accelerates Stinger appeal with:

Select exterior colors: Snow White, Aurora Black, and Ceramic Silver
Rear spoiler
Blacked out fender garnish, side mirror caps, and darkened exhaust tips
Unique black wheels
Interior carbon fiber pattern trim

Tuned by Driving Enthusiasts…for Driving Enthusiasts

Of all the options, the 2022 Stinger GT-Line may soon be seen as the most captivating Stinger. It flexes with more power to accelerate away from the traditional definition of “entry-level:”

2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine

8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
300 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque for an estimated 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds
RWD or available torque vectoring AWD
Estimated 22/32/25 mpg¹ (RWD); 21/29/24 mpg (AWD)

The GT twin-turbo V6 continues to offer higher-performance upgrades including Brembo brakes and launch control, but hearts and pistons will pound a little harder with slightly more power on tap:

3.3-liter turbocharged V6 engine

8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters
368 horsepower and 376 lb.-ft. of torque for estimated 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds
New electronic variable exhaust system enhances Stinger’s audible “calling card” – especially as it leaves other performance cars far behind
RWD or available AWD with torque vectoring
Estimated 18/25/20 mpg (RWD); 17/24/20 mpg (AWD)

Technology Upgrades that “Keep it in the Family”

Following in the footsteps of the K5 and Sorento, the Stinger pampers its passengers with the latest in infotainment and technology:

Standard 10.25-inch touchscreen display² with navigation and standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus multi-connection Bluetooth³ wireless connectivity and split-screen functionality
Wireless charger⁴ for compatible smartphones
Larger 4.2-inch color TFT center cluster is easier to read and offers a more vibrant exchange of information.
Available 7-inch center cluster provides the safety of the available Blind Spot View Monitor with a live video view of adjacent lanes activated via the turn signal. This screen also projects the available Surround View Monitor, which utilizes four cameras to provide a 360-degree vehicle perspective

Stinger’s suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems⁵ (ADAS) has expanded and is now the class-leader in this luxury segment:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning: Assists the driver in braking to help prevent a collision or lessen the effects in certain conditions when turning left and an oncoming vehicle is approaching
Safe Exit Warning⁶: Can alert the driver or passengers opening their door not to exit the vehicle when the system detects approaching traffic. When detected, a chime sounds.
Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist: Under certain conditions, can detect vehicles traveling in the next lane. When a vehicle is “seen” in the blind spot, the vehicle brakes the outer wheel under certain conditions to help return the vehicle to its intended lane
Rear Cross Traffic Avoidance Assist: Helps detect most approaching cross traffic when in reverse. When approaching cross traffic is detected, the system alerts the driver and applies the brakes
Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control: leverages the navigation system to lower the vehicle’s speed proactively before upcoming curves
Lane Following Assist: Follows lane markings that the system detects and provides steering inputs to help maintain the vehicle in the center of the lane
Highway Driving Assist⁷: Uses federal highway speed limit information from the navigation system and, under certain conditions, will automatically adjust speed to be within the posted speed limit and maintain distance with the vehicle detected in front

The impressive Harman/Kardon⁸ premium audio system continues to be available, while UVO link telematics⁹ offers an array of advanced connected vehicle features, such as:

Connected Routing: A new cloud-based route calculation system that uses UVO cloud to calculate the optimal route using real-time maps, predicted upcoming traffic info based on historical information and AI to learn the preferred routes of users
Connected Weather: Provides weather information for more than 25,000 cities
Enhanced UVO voice assist feature allows voice control of the vehicle’s climate, seat and steering-wheel heating, audio system, and other functions
Connected User Profiles: Allows customers to add an additional driver to their vehicle. The drivers can have their individual UVO accounts linked to the vehicle and access to the remote features using the Kia Access App. The profile stores some select settings on the UVO cloud and can be shared with other compatible Kia vehicles.
UVO & Smart Speaker Integration lets customers use Amazon-Alexa or Google-Assistant enabled smart speaker or device to remotely control some functions (such as remote start)
Advanced notifications:

Engine Idle Notification and Automatic Engine Shut Off notifies the driver via the UVO link app if the engine is left idling and, after a pre-selected time, turns off the engine
Rear Occupancy Alert can send push notification alerts via the UVO link app if movement is detected inside the vehicle
911 Connect and Roadside Assistance will automatically attempt to call 911 via the built-in UVO modem if an airbag deploys. For non-emergencies, it can connect with 24/7 roadside assistance and share the vehicle’s location

On-demand Find My Car with available Surround View Monitor uses the vehicle cameras to capture images of the vehicle’s surroundings and then share them via the Kia Access UVO app
Last Mile Navigation provides walking directions to the driver’s final destination if the vehicle is parked between 0.1 and 1.2 miles away
Calendar Integration syncs with owner’s cloud-based calendar and displays calendar events on touchscreen. Also provides navigation to event destination if address has been entered in calendar event
Valet Mode locks Stinger’s touchscreen, keeping personal information such as call history, address book, and navigation destinations private when vehicle is left with valet or other unknown person

About Kia Motors America

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia Motors America continues to top 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 more than 750 dealers in the U.S., including cars and SUVs proudly assembled in West Point, Georgia.*

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.

*The Telluride, Sorento and K5 are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

¹ Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition.
² Distracted driving can result in a loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.
³ The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG Inc., and any use of such marks by Kia is pursuant to license. A Bluetooth® enabled device is required to use Bluetooth® wireless technology.
⁴ Charging system only works with select devices. Refer to the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for warnings and instructions.
⁵ No system, no matter how advanced, can compensate for all driver error and/or driving conditions. Always drive safely.
⁶ Safe Exit Warning is not a substitute for one’s attention and may not detect all objects surrounding the vehicle. Always pay attention to traffic and to the area around your vehicle when exiting the vehicle.
⁷ Highway Driving Assist is not a substitute for safe driving, may not detect all objects around the vehicle, and only functions on certain federal highways. Always drive safely and use caution.
⁸ Harman/Kardon is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Inc.
⁹ Available only with AVN 5.0 with Navigation. 1-year service included. Go to https://owners.kia.com/us/en/uvo-availability.html for more details on specific available features.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1456839/Kia_Motors_America_2022_Stinger.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1442697/Kia_New_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Kia Motors America

Avocados From Mexico Expands Partnership With Iconic Mexican Artist, Thalia Sodi, With Launch Of Avocado Nation Studios

March 17, 2021

DALLAS, March 17, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Avocados From Mexico (AFM), the No. 1 selling brand of avocados in the U.S., today announces the launch of Avocado Nation Studios, the latest digital innovation from AFM which employs data intelligence to offer predictions, recommendations and personalized content tailored to each viewer. Featuring exclusive videos created by a network of content creators, the platform provides fresh and fun ways to engage with the brand.

Thalia Sodi, the global superstar singer, songwriter, author and entrepreneur will partner with AFM once again for a brand-new campaign titled, “Salud, Ejercicio y Grasas Buenas” con Thalia, meaning “Health, Fitness & Good Fats” with Thalia. Thalia’s Spanish channel will be centered around health, wellness and ways to incorporate the heart-healthy fruit into diet and exercise routines. Thalia’s Avocado Nation Studios content series is an extension of a partnership forged last year with her brand, “Cooking Healthy with Thalia,” a consumer program that promoted the positive impact avocados have as part of a healthy diet.

“Avocados are a staple in my diet and overall lifestyle, and I am thrilled to work with Avocados From Mexico once again,” said Thalia. “After the challenges of the past year, health and wellness are more important than ever. Adding avocados, which have good fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, into the mix makes it fun and delicious. I can’t wait to show viewers my tips and tricks for healthy eating with Avocados From Mexico!”

Thalia leads a roster of top content creators that have partnered with Avocados From Mexico to develop various videos that both entertain and educate audiences about avocados. Deborah Berebichez, the first Mexican woman to graduate from Stanford University with a PhD in Physics and a data scientist, TV host, educator and entrepreneur, explores the science of avocados. Instagram darlings Mila and Emma Stauffer have a channel detailing their adorable adventures with AFM, while Ally Brooke of the girl group Fifth Harmony takes viewers along with her for a virtual tour across the U.S. Additionally, AFM has partnered with Atlas Obscura to produce humorous and unique videos such as a parody of reality dating shows and an avocado fashion show.

“We’re proud and thrilled to be working with Thalia again and to add these influencers to the AFM family,” said Ivonne Kinser, Head of Digital Marketing and e-commerce at Avocados From Mexico. “Thalia is admired by Hispanic audiences for her music and healthy lifestyle, so we could not imagine a better spokesperson to promote the positive impacts avocados have on health and wellness to our Hispanic consumers. Given her heritage and longtime love of avocados, Thalia fully embodies the essence of our brand.”

Avocado Nation Studios is part of AFM’s new Avocado Nation platform, which is powered by Artificial Intelligence that allows AFM to leverage its consumers’ preferences to deliver highly personalized content.

“The variety of content we’ve produced goes to show that avocados truly are for everyone,” said Kinser. “Just as avocados are so versatile and enjoyed in different ways, we’ve strived to create content for all preferences and look forward to delivering personally curated video recommendations.”

Avocado fans can explore a host of content creators and more by visiting https://www.theavocadonation.com/.

About Avocados From Mexico
Avocados From Mexico (AFM) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA), formed for the purpose of advertising, promotion, public relations and research for all stakeholders of Avocados From Mexico. Under agreements, MHAIA and the Mexican Avocado Producers & Packers (APEAM) have combined resources to fund and manage AFM, with the intent to provide a focused, highly- effective and efficient marketing program in the United States. AFM is headquartered in Irving, Texas.

About Thalia
Thalia is a superstar singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, philanthropist, actress, fashion designer and digital influencer. She rose to fame after starring in various telenovelas that have been translated into several languages and have aired in more than 180 countries with a viewership of more than two billion people worldwide. She has had 29 Top 10 singles — 15 of which went to No. 1 — and has sold more than 50 million records, making her one of the bestselling Latina artists of all time. Her most recent album, Valiente, features four hit singles and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

For more information and exclusive updates, follow Thalia on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Contact:
Ivonne Kinser
Head of Digital Marketing and E-Commerce
Avocados From Mexico
[email protected]

Michelle Ciciyasvili
Authentic Brands Group – Thalia
[email protected]

Scarlet Manzueta
Authentic Brands Group – Thalia
[email protected]

Video – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1458556/Avocados_From_Mexico_Thalia_Sodi.mp4
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1032085/Avocados_From_Mexico_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Avocados From Mexico

Jamie Foxx, Stand Up To Cancer And Exact Sciences Launch PSA To Increase Awareness Of Colorectal Cancer

March 17, 2021

LOS ANGELES, March 17, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Academy Award® winner Jamie Foxx has joined Stand Up To Cancer® (SU2C) and Exact Sciences for a new public service announcement (PSA), which raises awareness about colorectal cancer screenings, early detection and prevention, and focuses on reaching underrepresented communities. The campaign launched today to coincide with Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and is in both English and Spanish. The PSA will be placed across print, broadcast, radio, digital and out-of-home outlets.

“Cancer affects everyone. I’ve lost good friends – young friends – to this deadly disease,” said Foxx. “We need to make sure that we are taking care of our bodies, paying attention to certain things, that you didn’t necessarily think about when you were younger. Medical issues come up and you may not know what’s at your disposal, so that is why I am proud to shine a light on the importance of getting screened for colon cancer early and bring awareness to the options that are available with this PSA campaign.”

In 2020, nearly 148,000 Americans received a new diagnosis of colon or rectal cancer. Black people have the highest colorectal cancer rates of any ethnic group in the United States. They are 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to die from it than any other population. And research has shown that colorectal cancer screening rates are the lowest in Hispanic communities, with Black and Hispanic people typically being diagnosed at a later stage in the disease when it is more difficult to treat.

“We are so thankful to Jamie Foxx for lending his voice to this campaign. We have seen a sharp drop in screenings as a result of COVID-19, and this compounds an already significant screening disparity in minority communities,” said Sung Poblete, PhD, RN, CEO of Stand Up To Cancer. “With routine screening, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. It’s beatable in 90% of cases when detected early, and lives can be saved with just one simple step. People must get screened!”

“We are thrilled to partner with Jamie Foxx and our friends at Stand Up To Cancer to get more people thinking about their options for colorectal cancer screening,” said Kevin Conroy, chairman and CEO of Exact Sciences. “We remain committed to addressing the challenges we face in colorectal cancer screening and helping to save lives with education, awareness and cutting-edge research. Providing personalized outreach and making it easier to get people screened is vital, especially in minority communities.”

The PSA campaign is part of a larger initiative between Exact Sciences and SU2C. With a $10 million grant from Exact Sciences, SU2C will launch a new colorectal cancer ‘Dream Team’ of researchers that will identify communities near anchor institutions serving medically underserved communities. This Dream Team will help pinpoint unique local needs of those areas and will provide free colorectal cancer testing in the identified zones and study samples collected via approved tests for colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy, CT colonography, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and at-home stool tests that analyze fecal DNA and/or blood. The research will aim to develop better approaches to colorectal cancer interception.

The PSA was directed by Tommy Walker and photographed by G.L. Askew II for Petrol Advertising, a creative marketing and advertising agency specializing in gaming, sports, technology and philanthropy. Walker co-directed and produced the feature-length documentary, God Grew Tired of Us, which won Best Documentary and Audience Award at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival and produced the 2019 documentary, Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am. Askew, originally from Atlanta, is an artist whose work is rooted in communicating the truth of the human experience.

To learn more about screening options, visit StandUpToCancer.org/ColonCancer.

About Stand Up To Cancer
Stand Up To Cancer® (SU2C) raises funds to accelerate the pace of research to get new therapies to patients quickly and save lives now. SU2C, a division of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, was established in 2008 by media and entertainment leaders who utilize these communities’ resources to engage the public in supporting a new, collaborative model of cancer research, to increase awareness about cancer prevention, and to highlight progress being made in the fight against the disease. As of January 2021, more than 1,950 scientists representing more than 210 institutions are involved in SU2C-funded research projects.

Under the direction of our Scientific Advisory Committee, led by Nobel laureate Phillip A. Sharp, Ph.D., SU2C operates rigorous competitive review processes to identify the best research proposals to recommend for funding, oversee grants administration, and ensure collaboration across research programs.

Current members of the SU2C Founders and Advisors Committee (FAC) include Katie Couric, Sherry Lansing, Kathleen Lobb, Lisa Paulsen, Rusty Robertson, Sue Schwartz, Pamela Oas Williams, and Ellen Ziffren. The late Laura Ziskin and the late Noreen Fraser are also co-founders. Sung Poblete, Ph.D., R.N., serves as SU2C’s CEO.

For more information, visit StandUpToCancer.org.

About Exact Sciences Corp.
A leading provider of cancer screening and diagnostic tests, Exact Sciences relentlessly pursues smarter solutions providing the clarity to take life-changing action, earlier. Exact Sciences is investing in its product pipeline to take on some of the deadliest cancers and improve patient care. Exact Sciences unites visionary collaborators to help advance the fight against cancer. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.exactsciences.com, follow Exact Sciences on Twitter @ExactSciences, or find Exact Sciences on Facebook.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1457791/Jamie_Foxx_PSA_Stand_Up_To_Cancer.jpg
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SOURCE Stand Up To Cancer

Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan Receives Multicultural Health Care Distinction from the National Committee for Quality Assurance

March 17, 2021

MONTEREY PARK, Calif., March 17, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan (Blue Shield Promise) has received the Multicultural Health Care Distinction from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). This nationally recognized distinction reflects Blue Shield Promise’s mission-driven commitment to elevating the standard of care for the diverse populations they serve.

NCQA’s Multicultural Health Care program evaluates how well organizations comply with standards in:

Collecting race, ethnicity and language data
Access and availability of language assistance services
Cultural responsiveness of the practitioner network
Providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services
Reducing health care disparities

“Earning Multicultural Health Care Distinction shows that an organization is making a breakthrough in providing excellent health care to diverse populations. I congratulate any organization that achieves this level of distinction,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane. “Eliminating racial and ethnic disparities in health care is essential to improving the quality of care overall.”

“We are honored to receive the Multicultural Health Care Distinction from the National Committee for Quality Assurance,” said Dr. Susan Fleischman, chief medical officer for Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan. “We are committed to working to reduce health care disparities, and to being a resource and advocate that positively impacts the health of the communities we serve.”

About Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan
Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan is a managed care organization, wholly owned by Blue Shield of California, offering Medi-Cal and Medicare-Medicaid Plans. It is led by healthcare professionals with a “members-first” philosophy and committed to building a quality network of providers and partnering with community organizations for more than 400,000 members. For more information about Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan, please visit www.blueshieldca.com/promise. For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit www.news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

About National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA)
NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA’s Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. NCQA’s website (ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make more informed health care choices. NCQA can be found online at ncqa.org, on Twitter @ncqa, on Facebook at facebook.com/NCQA.org/ and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/ncqa.

CONTACT:	Mashi Nyssen
	Blue Shield of California
	626-436-4345
	[email protected]

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958511/Blue_Shield_of_California_Promise_Health_Plan_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan

CMC Rebrands As The Hispanic Marketing Council (HMC)

March 17, 2021

FAIRFAX, Va., March 17, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today’s marketing landscape is seeing a racial awakening from companies, but consumers are demanding equality and proper representation coupled with culturally literate, responsible practices from marketers. With Hispanics fueling U.S. culture shifts and population growth, the Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing is sharpening its focus, re-invigorating its advocacy for Hispanic marketing, and rebranding as the Hispanic Marketing Council (HMC). At a time when intentional approaches via segment marketing have never been more critical, the HMC continues to be the only organization devoted to promoting the critical role of Hispanic marketing, media and specialist firms in today’s marketplace.

With a population of 60 million and growing, Hispanics accounted for about half of all U.S. population growth between 2010 and 2019, according to Pew Research. They are also the country’s second largest racial or ethnic group, behind non-Hispanic whites (NHW). Despite commanding $1.9 trillion in buying power, corporate focus on the Hispanic audience continues to lag.

“Hispanics continue to be the largest underserved audience that fuels demographic changes, cultural transformation and economic growth in the U.S. Segment marketing is critical, and brands must realize Hispanics are a crucial part of the American mainstream with Hispanic marketing as a core practice for achieving sustainable market relevance and growth,” said HMC Chair Gonzalo Del Fa, president of GroupM Multicultural. “As we are the only organization representing Hispanic marketing subject matter experts, we felt it necessary to sharpen our focus and further clarify and crystallize our name—for both marketers and our own member constituency. The Hispanic Marketing Council needs no tagline and allows us to be specific about the power of our leadership and expertise.”

For nearly 25 years, the HMC has championed the Hispanic market in corporate boardrooms and advocated for increased investment in Hispanic marketing strategies—all while ensuring that experts with trusted Hispanic market expertise are at the forefront of this discussion. Through collective thought leadership initiatives and groundbreaking research, the organization, first known as the Association of Hispanic Advertising Agencies (AHAA), has grown to represent more than 25,000 marketing, creative, research and media executives who have trusted and proven Hispanic marketing expertise. Its member agencies have helped brands achieve market share, increase revenue and grow profits by reaching and connecting with Hispanic consumers.

The organization will retain the same structure and continue its thought leadership in Hispanic marketing across its education and research platforms in collaboration with other segment marketers.

For more information, visit hispanicmarketingcouncil.org and follow the HMC on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @hmchispanic.

About HMC: Founded in 1996 as the Association of Hispanic Advertising Agencies, the Hispanic Marketing Council is the national trade organization of all marketing, communications, and media firms with trusted Hispanic expertise.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1450046/HMC_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Hispanic Marketing Council

If You Purchased Certain Post Cereals Since August 29, 2012 You Could Receive A Cash Payment As Part Of A Class Action Settlement.

March 17, 2021

SAN FRANCISCO, March 17, 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 Northern District of California, in Krommenhock et al. v. Post Foods, LLC, (No. 16-cv-04958-WHO).

What is the lawsuit about? The lawsuit contends that Post Foods, LLC (“Post”) made certain statements on the labels of various sizes and varieties of Honey Bunches of Oats, Great Grains, Raisin Bran, Bran Flakes, Honey Bunches of Oats Granola, Selects, Honeycomb, Shredded Wheat, Alpha-Bits, Waffle Crisp, and Golden Crisp cereals (the “Post Cereals”) that are misleading because the statements suggested the cereals are healthy, when Plaintiffs allege they are unhealthy because of their added sugar. Post maintains that the statements on its cereals are true and that the Post Cereals are nutrient-dense, healthy foods. The Court has not determined whether Plaintiffs or Post are correct.

Who is included? You are a Class Member if you bought one of the Post Cereals for household use, and not for resale or distribution, between August 29, 2012 and November 2, 2020. For a complete list of the Post Cereals in the class, please visit the Settlement Website, www.AddedSugarClassAction.com, or call (844) 970-1302.

What does the settlement provide? Post has agreed to establish a $15,000,000 “Settlement Fund” to pay all settlement expenses, including the costs of class notice and administration, attorneys’ fees and costs, service awards for the Plaintiffs, and cash refunds for Class Members who make claims. Your legal rights will be affected if you are a Class Member and do not exclude yourself.

What are your options?

Submit A Claim: To receive Settlement benefits, you must complete and submit a Claim Form. Claim Forms are available at the Settlement Website and can be submitted electronically or mailed to the Class Administrator. A Claim Form must be submitted online or postmarked by May 19, 2021.

Opt-Out or Object: If you opt-out, you will retain your rights to sue Post separately, however, you will not be eligible to receive any benefits. You must submit a request for exclusion. An example exclusion form is available at the Settlement Website. Requests for exclusion must be postmarked on or before May 19, 2021. Detailed instructions are available on the Settlement Website.

You may also object to any part of this Settlement. Details about how to object are available at the Settlement Website. Objections must be filed with or mailed to the Court on or before May 19, 2021.

Do Nothing: If you do nothing, you will not be eligible to receive any benefits and will be bound by the terms of the Settlement Agreement and Final Judgment.

Has the Court approved the Settlement? No. The Court has set a hearing for June 23, 2021 to determine whether to approve the Settlement and what attorneys’ fees, expenses, and service payments to award. Class Counsel will file a motion seeking an award of up to one-third of the Settlement Fund in fees, and reimbursement of case expenses totaling approximately $967,607, plus any expenses incurred after preliminary approval. Class Counsel will also seek on behalf of the Class Representatives service awards of $7,500 each for Debbie Krommenhock and Stephen Hadley. The Court will determine the amount of fees, expenses, and service awards that will be paid from the Settlement Fund.

After Class Counsel’s motion for attorneys’ fees, expenses, and service awards is filed on or before April 14, 2021, it will be posted on the Settlement Website and you will have an opportunity to review and comment on the motion via an Objection.

You do not need to appear at the hearing but you may come at your own expense. The Court has appointed The Law Office of Jack Fitzgerald, PC and Jackson & Foster LLP as Class Counsel. You will not be charged for these lawyers. If you want to be represented by your own lawyer, you may hire one at your own expense.

This is only a summary of the key Settlement terms. A full copy of the Settlement Agreement is available at the Settlement Website or by calling 1-(844) 970-1302.

SOURCE Class Administrator

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