CitizensNYC Honors Five Remarkable Women: Launches “The New Yorkers for New York” Campaign

February 25, 2021

NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Citizens Committee for New York City (CitizensNYC) announced today the launch of its 2021 virtual fundraising campaign The New Yorkers for New York. The organization kicks off Women’s History Month by honoring five extraordinary women who are working to rethink, rebuild, and reimagine New York City.

The five-month-long fundraising campaign will lift up the contributions women have made throughout New York’s history as well as their commitment to the city’s future. Each gift will be matched one-to-one, up to $150,000. CitizensNYC aims to raise $1.5 million dollars this year. This year’s honorees represent the breadth of culture, neighborhoods, and industries that New York City has to offer. Each month the campaign will highlight one of the five honorees who have committed to rolling up their sleeves to help the city recover from the pandemic. The showcase event is set to take place on Tuesday, June 22, 2021.

One of the nation’s oldest micro-funding organizations, CitizensNYC has a longstanding history of celebrating and supporting civic leaders. They have provided residents in the city’s most underserved neighborhoods with community, education, and small business improvement grants for the past 45 years. In 2020, CitizensNYC provided 402 projects with nearly $1.2M in direct cash grants, impacting more than 87,685 residents in 122 neighborhoods across all five boroughs.

This year’s honorees include:

Susan R. Cullman, The Activist, became the volunteer director of the Republican Coalition for Choice in 1991 and spent her days on the Hill and across the country, working with lawyers and consultants, raising money and supporting pro-choice Republican candidates. Susan, whose family established roots in NYC centuries ago, serves as a board member with several NYC nonprofits including Citizens Committee for New York City, The New York Women’s Foundation, The Avon and Mount Sinai Health System.

Nicole Lee, The Future, is a community advocate, entrepreneur, and candidate for The New York City Council, representing the 31st district. She is a CitizensNYC grantee partner with more than a decade of experience managing small businesses, serving as the founder of MotherGoose Daycare, Wink Beauty Parlour, and Journey Through Seth’s Eyes, which provides a safe environment and resources for children with special needs, all in her neighborhood of Jamaica Beach, Queens.

Frida Polli PhD, The Entrepreneur, is an award-winning Harvard and MIT neuroscientist turned CEO. She was named one of Inc.’s Top 100 Female Founders in 2019, one of Entrepreneur’s Top 100 Powerful Women in 2020 and has received the MIT 100K, and HBS Life Science Award, a NARSAD Young Investigator Award. Frida is the CEO and co-founder of Pymetrics, a company leveraging soft skill science and AI to make workforce decisions more accurate and fair. Frida, along with her husband Conor Bastable, Partner at Davidson Kempner Capital Management, further demonstrate their love for NYC as active supporters of Robin Hood, The Urban League, Prep for Prep, and The Bowery Mission.

Sue Suh, The Optimist, is the Chief People Officer at TIME. She has spent most of the past decade at one of the world’s largest private philanthropies, the Rockefeller Foundation. Prior to Rockefeller, Sue spent five years in a variety of roles at the U.S. Departments of State and Defense in Washington, New York, and Tripoli, Libya, including a two-year stint at the U.S. Mission to the UN. A native New Yorker, Sue serves on the board of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, the Classical Theatre of Harlem and Special Olympics Asia-Pacific. She was a Fulbright Scholar in South Korea and a Presidential Management Fellow.

Rhina Valentin, The Creative, is a leading figure in New York City’s entertainment industry as the founder of La Reina del Barrio, Inc., a media and television production company. Born and bred in New York City, Rhina is the talk show host of Colors of Rhina and has been the host of BronxNet’s OPEN Friday since 2006, and is a recipient of the 25 Bronx Influential Women of 2015 Award. She’s also a practitioner of Transcendental Meditation, is an advocate for domestic violence awareness and is currently Raising Money for S.T.E.A.M. programs in support of Puerto Rico, Colombia, and West Africa.

“We felt it was important this year to not only launch this campaign alongside Women’s History Month, and to ensure that our New Yorkers for New York honorees were reflective of the vast diversity of New York City — in a way that is reminiscent of the culture that we all know, love, and hold dear. Our distinguished honorees will play a key role in helping to shine a light on the New Yorkers that are most in need at this time,” said Dr. Rahsaan Harris, CEO of Citizens Committee for New York City.

CitizensNYC is seeking donations throughout The New Yorkers for New York campaign. To support the work of the organization and its grantee partners as they work to rebuild New York City, donate HERE.

About Citizen Committee for New York City:
Citizens Committee for New York City’s mission is to help New Yorkers – especially those in low-income areas – come together and improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. Residents are uniquely situated to define and act on the issues affecting their communities. When provided with modest support, neighborhood and school groups can effectively mobilize with the assistance of grants, skills-building workshops, project planning assistance and an equipment share library. In 2020, CitizensNYC provided 402 projects with nearly $1.2M in direct cash grants, impacting more than 87,685 residents in 122 neighborhoods across all five boroughs. Since 1975, we have promoted the spirit of volunteerism, local engagement, and social justice that drives our work. Go to citizensnyc.org to learn more.

Additional Information:
Webpage: https://www.citizensnyc.org
Social Media: Twitter @citizensnyc | Instagram @citizenscommittee | Facebook.com/citizensnyc

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SOURCE Citizens Committee For New York City

MoneyGram Digital Business Continues Rapid Ascent with 30% of Company Transactions Now Digital

February 25, 2021

MoneyGram Online (MGO), the Company’s direct-to-consumer digital business, delivered 137% year-over-year cross-border transaction growth in January, its 13^th consecutive month of triple-digit growth

Growth has also been led by the Company’s leading app as app transactions increased 161% year-over-year

DALLAS, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — MoneyGram International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGI), a global leader in cross-border P2P payments and money transfers, today announced the Company delivered 137% year-over-year cross-border transaction growth for January in its direct-to-consumer digital business, MoneyGram Online (MGO), marking the thirteenth consecutive month of triple-digit year-over-year cross-border transaction growth in the channel. The Company’s consumer-centric app helped drive MGO growth as app transactions increased 161% year-over-year in January. Additionally, the Company announced another important milestone on its digital transformation journey as digital transactions accounted for a record 30% of all money transfer transactions in January.

“We’re pleased to report a strong start to the year, which demonstrates sustained momentum in consumer demand for our leading app and continued market share gains,” said Alex Holmes, MoneyGram Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “This has also brought our digital business to 30% of all money transfer transactions, resulting in a size and scale that has redefined MoneyGram’s business.”

The Company’s strong January results come on the heels of strong fourth quarter and full-year 2020 financial results. Earlier this week, MoneyGram reported a record number of digital customers in the fourth quarter of last year and 152% year-over-year cross-border transaction growth in MGO for the full-year. These results continue to be led by record digital growth and successful expense control measures.

“As MoneyGram leads the evolution of digital cross-border P2P payments and money transfers, we continue to execute our strategy to deliver the industry’s best customer experience,” said Kamila Chytil, MoneyGram Chief Operating Officer. “Our January results are yet another example of how our customer-centric app is delivering industry leading returns on investment and driving strong customer lifetime value.”

About MoneyGram International, Inc.
MoneyGram is a global leader in cross-border P2P payments and money transfers. Its consumer-centric capabilities enable family and friends to quickly and affordably send money in more than 200 countries and territories, with 90 now digitally enabled.

MoneyGram leverages its modern, mobile, and API-driven platform and collaborates with the world’s leading brands to serve millions of people each year through both its walk-in business and its direct-to-consumer digital business.

With a strong culture of innovation and a relentless focus on utilizing technology to deliver the world’s best customer experience, MoneyGram is leading the evolution of digital P2P payments.

For more information, please visit MoneyGram.com and follow @MoneyGram.

Media Contact
Stephen Reiff
[email protected]

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SOURCE MoneyGram

Ardent Mills Announces Intent To Acquire Hinrichs Trading Company Operations

February 25, 2021

DENVER, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Ardent Mills, the premier flour-milling and ingredient company, today announced its intention to purchase substantially all of the business operations of Hinrichs Trading Company, the North American leader in chickpea sourcing, cleaning, and packing. The move comes as part of Ardent Mills’ strategic growth plan to further invest in specialty ingredient capabilities and diversify its portfolio of solutions, building upon its existing wheat flour business. The parties are continuing with due diligence and expect the deal to close in April 2021.

Headquartered in Pullman, Washington, Hinrichs Trading Company currently operates across five locations in Washington and Montana. Family-owned, Hinrichs Trading Company has over 30 years of chickpea experience, having been involved in the production of the ingredient since it was first introduced into the U.S.

“Ardent Mills and Hinrichs Trading Company share a strong commitment to our growers, customers, team members, communities, and to growth and innovation,” said Dan Dye, CEO of Ardent Mills. “There is a strong cultural alignment and shared values across both organizations. We look forward to welcoming the talented Hinrichs Trading Company team to the Ardent Mills family.”

The parties expect the deal will help customers bring innovative products to market to meet growing consumer demand for plant-based and specialty ingredients.

“We were looking for a partner that had the expertise to take the chickpea market to the next level and provide new opportunities for our team members and our growers,” said Phil Hinrichs, CEO of Hinrichs Trading Company. “Ardent Mills is that partner. They bring operational and technical expertise, access to new markets, and the ability to scale quickly and sustainably. Hinrichs Trading Company complements that with our extensive chickpea sourcing knowledge and extremely close grower connections. We’re excited about the opportunity to partner with Ardent Mills as we share a similar values-based culture and a solid vision for growth.”

Upon closing, this will be another step in Ardent Mills’ commitment to the future of specialty ingredients and plant genetics, which supports growth for its customers through The Annex by Ardent Mills. Highlights include:

Acquisition of Andean Naturals’ quinoa operations in February 2020.
Acquisition of an organic grain elevator in Klamath Falls, Oregon.
Added capabilities in its Denver RiNo community mill to clean and pack specialty grains.

“The plant-based food and beverage market shows no sign of slowing down. In fact, we continue to see significant growth as consumers look to foods that align with their individual values – both personal and planetary,” said Shrene White, general manager of The Annex by Ardent Mills. “Ardent Mills has made proactive investments to meet this demand. This potential venture will enable us to offer diverse chickpea solutions to our customers from day one.”

To learn more about how Ardent Mills is nourishing what’s next, please visit www.ardentmills.com.

About Ardent Mills
Ardent Mills is the premier flour-milling and ingredient company whose vision is to be the trusted partner in nurturing its customers, consumers, and communities through innovative and nutritious grain-based solutions. Ardent Mills’ operations and services are supported by more than 35 flour mills, a specialty bakery, two mix facilities, a gluten-free facility, and The Annex by Ardent Mills (The Annex), a dedicated team committed to cultivating the future of specialty grains and plant-based ingredients. The Annex has a broad portfolio that includes quinoa, ancient and heirloom grains, gluten-free, organic grains and flours, chickpeas, as well as innovations such as Sustagrain^® High-Fiber Barley, White Sonora, and heirloom wheat. Deeply rooted in communities throughout North America, Ardent Mills’ operations are located in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico and the company is headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Ardent Mills employs more than 100 certified millers, supporting thousands of local jobs and contributing billions of dollars to local economies. To learn more about Ardent Mills, visit ardentmills.com.

About Hinrichs Trading Company
Hinrichs Trading Company (HTC) is a full-service pulse origination and processing company specializing in the production and processing of high-quality garbanzo bean (chickpea) products. HTC contracts production of garbanzo beans with trusted, long-term growers, across the US production areas. Learn more about Hinrichs Trading Company, visit https://hinrichstrading.com/.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1444469/Ardent_Mills_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Ardent Mills

Public Health Focuses on Dangers of Menthol Cigarettes Reaching Those Most Impacted by Menthol Use – Black Communities, LGBTQ and Young Adults

February 25, 2021

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) launches its first quit menthol cigarette campaign to address the risks and harms of menthol tobacco use within communities most exposed to menthol – Black communities, LGBTQ, and young adults. Menthol and other flavors in tobacco hides the harsh taste of tobacco with a cool or minty flavor which can result in smokers inhaling deeper into the lungs resulting in greater exposure to the harmful and addictive chemicals. Black communities are among the highest groups of menthol smokers in LA County. Also, according to the 2018 California Youth Tobacco Survey, all high school students in LA County who reported smoking cigarettes only smoked menthol/mint cigarettes.

“The tobacco industry has disproportionately marketed menthol cigarettes in Black communities as well as towards LGBTQ and youth. Over 12 percent of African American smokers in LA County reported smoking menthol cigarettes compared to just over 3% of white smokers,” said Barbara Ferrer, PhD, MPH, MEd, Director of Public Health. “Public Health continues the efforts towards reversing the harmful effects tobacco has done in these communities.”

The Black community uses menthol tobacco products at a higher rate than other smokers. For decades, the tobacco industry has used aggressive advertising tactics to attract Black, LGBTQ, and young people to use and become addicted to menthol cigarettes. The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids has just released a new report titled, Stopping Menthol, Saving Lives, documenting the tobacco industry’s heavy and deliberate marketing in Black communities, especially towards Black youth, for more than 60 years and as a result the impact the Black community has unfairly suffered from tobacco use.

This media and public education campaign satirizes cigarette ads, acknowledging the impact of glamour and style, using these attributes to help inform about the health risks of smoking menthol cigarettes. The campaign will work with Los Angeles based Black-owned media and Spanish media networks for in-language messaging and to reach the audiences most impacted by the tobacco industry’s marketing tactics. The campaign efforts will include radio, online and social media advertisements, as well as place-based and outdoor advertisements such as posters at convenience store locations.

The campaign encourages people to call 1-800-NO-BUTTS (1-800-45-NO-FUME in Spanish) for free counseling and help to start a quit plan. People can also visit LAQuits.com/menthol for resources to help quit.

The Department of Public Health is committed to protecting and improving the health of over 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health comprises nearly 4,100 employees and has an annual budget of $1 billion. To learn more about Los Angeles County Public Health, visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov, and follow LA County Public Health on social media at twitter.com/LAPublicHealth, facebook.com/LAPublicHealth, instagram.com/LApublichealth and youtube.com/LAPublicHealth.

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health works to protect health, prevent disease, and promote health and well-being.

For more information contact:
Sibongile West
o: 310—487-8289
[email protected]

SOURCE The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

JINS Eyewear Will Open its 3rd Bay Area Store at Hillsdale Shopping Center in San Mateo on March 1st

February 25, 2021

Grand Opening Special: For every customer in the first 2 weeks, with any purchase of glasses or sunglasses, get 1 free JINS SCREEN Boxed blue light glasses (ready-made as non-prescription). Available in Adult and Kids sizes (regular retail $50 for Adults and $30 for Kids). Limited time offer until March 14th, 2021.

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — JINS Eyewear, Japan’s largest eyewear brand by volume, officially announces its 6th store in the United States will open on March 1st, 2021, located at Hillsdale Shopping Center. JINS, a 5-star rated eyewear brand in Silicon Valley, will open its 3rd location in the Bay Area at 60 31st Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94403 on the upper level close to Pandora. Despite these tough times during the pandemic, JINS wants to expand their services to more communities in the Bay Area and are happy to be a part of the San Mateo community. Visit JINS Hillsdale by booking an appointment to secure your spot, or walk-ins welcome if available. Open daily 11:00am to 7:00pm.

Over 430 Eyewear Styles and All-In-One Pricing
The brand new store houses over 430 styles of eyeglasses, ranging from Airframe lightweight glasses, to Alternative Fit frames, suited for low nose bridges, and more. Adult and Kids sizes are available. The store will continue to feature signature 30-minute prescription glasses (depending on lens availability). Glasses start at $60, with premium quality lenses included: high index up to 1.74, aspheric, UV cut, anti-glare, and hard coatings — all at no extra charge. Customers can continue to use their out-of-network vision insurance benefits for reimbursement. JINS has two other stores in the Bay Area: San Francisco’s Union Square (flagship) and Santa Clara’s Westfield Valley Fair.

Customers’ health and safety is JINS’ number one priority, they have COVID-19 safety measures in place, and details can be found here. Eye exams for now will not be available at opening.

Grand Opening Special: Free Blue Light Glasses until 3/14
JINS at Hillsdale Shopping Center kicks off their grand opening with a special promotion to welcome the surrounding community. For every customer in the first 2 weeks: With any purchase of glasses or sunglasses, get 1 free JINS SCREEN Boxed blue light glasses (ready-made as non-prescription). Available in Adult and Kids sizes (regular retail $50 for Adults and $30 for Kids). Limited time offer until March 14th, 2021.

Limited Time Offer: ~~$60~~ $0 Blue Light Lenses
With more working from home or distance learning, many are spending alarming longer hours looking at digital devices each day. JINS wants to help in these times. They have a limited time offer for free blue light lens upgrades ($60 regular retail). Available online and in stores. Their blue light lenses called JINS SCREEN block blue light and reduce digital eye strain, as proven in the clinical study conducted by Keio University. JINS has already sold over 12 million pairs of blue light glasses in the US and Japan.

About JINS
JINS believes in Eyewear Fit for All. With stylish, innovative eyewear and thoughtful design, they encourage customers to explore their personal style, without having to worry about budget. Not only are they here to help you see the world better, but they also want our world to be a better place to see. Their Cases for Causes program collaborates with local nonprofits, with beautifully designed cases to support their missions. 100% of case sales goes back to the nonprofits. The brand has 640 retail stores globally in Japan, China, Taiwan, Philippines, and Hong Kong, including 6 U.S. stores, in the San Francisco Bay Area: Union Square, San Jose, San Mateo, and in Los Angeles: Sherman Oaks, Arcadia, and Torrance.

Find JINS on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
For additional information, visit: https://www.jins.com/us

JINS Press Contact
JINS US Marketing
[email protected]

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SOURCE JINS Eyewear

Ismael Cala has opened the “Cala Center” in Miami, a unique comprehensive training space for leaders

February 25, 2021

MIAMI, Feb. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The author, communicator and strategist Ismael Cala has opened the CALA CENTER in Miami, a multipurpose space to host his main events as well as to welcome other happenings to the region.

“The Cala Center is a comprehensive training space for activating the five senses, but also that sixth sense that connects us with nature, with what we are beyond our bodies and with that high-consciousness vibration, of the leaders we want to train,” Cala explained.

Located in the southern part of downtown Miami, the Cala Center will be the setting for courses, seminars, and workshops on positive psychology, exponential mindful leadership, epigenetics, neurosciences, emotional intelligence, assertive communication and other activities requested by both the corporate sector and the people.

“After the pandemic, now more than ever, the world needs places where they can disconnect and create peace in the midst of so much uncertainty,” Cala added.

The center’s opening coincides with some events postponed by the Covid-19 pandemic being resumed, all with increased health safety precautions.

The first in-person workshop given was “Reprogram your Brain: Build Your New Version,” which will be followed by “The Science of Forgiving: the Antidote to Anxiety and Depression” (Saturday, February 27) and “Five Pillars for Creating Personal Strength” (with Jacques Giraud, Saturday, March 13).

“Safety is our top priority. Health and safety norms and protocols established by Miami-Dade County will be respected on the date of each activity,” the company Cala Enterprises clarified.

The Cala Center will also be open to community, social, cultural and family events.

The Cala Center:

19091 SW 160th St. Miami, FL 33187
www.ismaelcala.com/calacenter/
WhatsApp: +1 305 360 9940

SOURCE Cala Enterprises

Toyota Pledges $1 Million To Support Texans Impacted By Historic Winter Storm

February 25, 2021

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 24, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — With Winter Storm Uri leaving millions of Texans without power or water last week, North Texas-based Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has pledged $1 million in relief for storm victims. The aid will serve both customers and a variety of Texas-based non-profit organizations.

“We take our role as community leaders seriously, so when winter storms affected millions right in our backyard, our top priority became helping Texas get back on its feet after this ordeal,” said Sean Suggs, group vice president of Social Innovation, TMNA. “Texans have supported our company in myriad ways, and we want to help our neighbors emerge from this storm stronger than ever.”

The $1 million relief effort includes:

North Texas/DFW Metroplex

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, in support of North Texas Cares and West Dallas nonprofits to quickly distribute funds to grassroots organizations: $450,000
North Texas Food Bank: $100,000
The Family Place and Genesis Women’s Shelter to fund hotel rooms, food, and transportation for their clients: $30,000
Toyota employees will be able to support the needs of four North Texas community partners significantly impacted by the storms by purchasing items from their Amazon Wish Lists.

San Antonio

SAWS Community Pipe Repair Fund, through the San Antonio Area Foundation to assist individuals and families stay in their homes safely with funds for plumbing repairs: $100,000
Let’s Help SA Fund to provide food, water and shelter: $200,000

Houston

United Way of Greater Houston to support the Greater Houston 2021 Winter Storm Relief Fund that supports local home repairs: $50,000
Houston Food Bank: $50,000
CrowdSource Rescue to provide food, water and fuel: $20,000

Toyota offers support to all U.S.-based employees with their personal recovery efforts from unexpected catastrophic events. Additionally, Toyota will match up to $10,000 in individual employee contributions to nonprofit organizations recovering from the storm.

Toyota Financial Services (TFS) announced it is offering payment relief options to customers affected by the storms. This broad outreach includes any TFS or Lexus Financial Services customer in the designated disaster areas. Impacted lease and finance customers residing in affected areas may be eligible to take advantage of several payment relief options, some of which include:

extensions and lease deferred payments
redirecting billing statements
arranging phone or online payments

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota has created a tremendous value chain and directly employs more than 36,000 in the U.S. The company has contributed world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 30 million cars and trucks at our 9 manufacturing plants, 10 including our joint venture in Alabama that begins production in 2021.

To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.

Contact:
Victor Vanov
[email protected]; 469.292.1318

SOURCE Toyota Motor North America

March Of Dimes Announces 2021 March For Babies: A Mother Of A Movement™

February 25, 2021

ARLINGTON, Virginia, Feb. 24, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — March of Dimes, the leading nonprofit organization fighting for the health of all moms and babies, is pleased to announce March for Babies: A Mother of a Movement™, a virtual awareness and fundraising campaign kicking off now to address the ongoing maternal and health crisis by engaging the public to raise critical funds in support of life-saving research, programs and educational initiatives. As the country enters the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic, March for Babies is now much more than a walk to primarily end preventable preterm birth, but a rally cry to inspire and unite communities everywhere to achieve health equity for moms and babies alike.

“We’ve long said that in order to provide the best possible start for babies, we must take care of moms, too. A woman dies every 12 hours from pregnancy-related causes, and 1 in 10 babies is born too soon, which is why we’re also fighting to end preventable maternal health risks and deaths which are particularly devastating to underserved families of color,” said Stacey D. Stewart, President and CEO of March of Dimes. “The health of moms and babies are intertwined and we welcome everyone to join this movement for change that will help us achieve real, measurable improvements. We embrace anyone who wants to do more for moms and babies—and not just today, but every day.”

The March of Dimes 2020 Report Card found that for the fifth year in a row, the U.S. preterm birth rate increased to 10.2 percent of births, earning the nation a “C-” grade. The statistics are worse for moms and babies of color—with the Report Card showing significant racial disparities that cut across maternal and infant health. Women of color are up to 50 percent more likely to give birth preterm and their children face up to a 130 percent higher infant death rate. Additionally, Black and American Indian/Alaskan Native women are up to three times more likely to die from pregnancy related complications compared to White women.

March for Babies will bring communities together virtually for a variety of team building activities and fundraising challenges. Together, participants will unite to honor motherhood, babies and families in addition to supporting the March of Dimes mission. Throughout the country, participants can donate individually or work as a team with their colleagues, family or friends to raise much-needed funds to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy for generations to come.

“After more than 50 years as the largest fundraiser for March of Dimes and the nation’s oldest charitable walk, we’re excited to see March for Babies elevate mothers – who are at the center of our mission – and grow into an even bigger movement that unites and connects us to fight for families who need us the most,” added Stewart.

Take the following steps today to support all moms and babies though March for Babies:

Sign up to be part of the movement
Sign up as a team captain, team member or individual.
Take action to connect, fundraise and spread the word
Rally with millions of Americans in the collective effort to transform the health of all moms and babies.
Continue to check back for updates at marchforbabies.org

Check out our latest PSA, “Seen”, which shares moments of the collective experience of motherhood and urges viewers to take action on behalf of moms and babies. Our social media press kit also provides information on March for Babies to help rally public support. For more information on March for Babies, including how to sign up and start a team, download the March for Babies app or visit marchforbabies.org.

ABOUT MARCH OF DIMES
March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, lead programs and provide education and advocacy so that every mom and baby can have the best possible start. Building on a successful 80-year legacy of impact and innovation, we’re there for every family—those who had first-hand hardships, those celebrating their health and those just trying to start their families. For more information go to marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org, and visit shareyourstory.org for comfort and support. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1444049/MoD_MarchforBabies_Logo.jpg

SOURCE March of Dimes Inc.

Al Aire Con El Terrible Syndicated Morning Show With Alberto “El Terri” Cortez Expands To New Key Hispanic Markets

February 24, 2021

MIAMI, Feb. 24, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — AIRE Radio Networks, the largest minority certified Spanish Language radio network in the country and the official radio network of Spanish Broadcasting System, announced today that its highly rated syndicated morning show, Al Aire Con El Terrible, expands its coverage and can now be heard across 15 top Hispanic markets.

Al Aire con El Terrible was launched through AIRE Radio Networks/Spanish Broadcasting System back in August 2018 and is hosted by one of the most influential Latin radio personalities, Alberto “El Terri” Cortez. A listener favorite, Al Aire Con El Terrible, is becoming widely recognized for uplifting and empowering the Hispanic community through music and laughter.

The program includes a variety of engaging segments that connect with Hispanic consumers such as community highlights, stories and words of empowerment, interviews with Latin artists and celebrities, international news, celebrity gossip, jokes, as well as tentpole segments like Mini Terry, El Pesado de Sinaloa, Citripio Perez, Segmento Deportivo, El Anónimo, El Detective, El Doctor J, Sexologa Eugenia Flores. Each break of the show includes a mix of the biggest Regional Mexican music hits.

“El Terri is a unique influencer who has consistently driven ratings on our owned-and-operated audio stations in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago. His success comes through his hard work in developing engaging, cultural and empowering content that speaks to the Hispanic community,” said Elisa Torres, EVP, AIRE Radio Networks and Spanish Broadcasting System National Sales. “The response to his show since we launched has been exceptional and the demand to carry and advertise within the program continues to surge. We’re very excited to witness the growth of Al Aire con El Terrible.”

“The partnership with AIRE Radio Networks and Spanish Broadcasting System has been remarkable. I’m so grateful to have a robust platform where I can empower Hispanic listeners across the nation every day,” said Alberto Cortez, the host of Al Aire con El Terrible. “We’re living through challenging times and the biggest reward is knowing that I have played a role helping our people start their day with laughter and positivity.”

Al AIRE con El Terrible also has a variety of digital and social extensions such as his self-titled podcast on the LaMusica App, the #1 Hispanic Streaming App and El Terrible’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

For all syndication inquiries and details, contact Blanca Navas, Vice President, Affiliate Sales at [email protected].

About Spanish Broadcasting System and AIRE Radio Networks
Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. is a leading Hispanic media company that owns and operates 17 radio stations located in the top U.S. Hispanic markets of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Puerto Rico, airing the Spanish Tropical, Regional Mexican, Spanish Adult Contemporary, Top 40 and Latin Rhythmic format genres. SBS also operates AIRE Radio Networks, a national radio platform which creates, distributes and markets leading Spanish-language radio programming to over 300+ affiliated stations reaching 95% of the U.S. Hispanic audience. SBS also owns MegaTV, a television operation with over-the-air, cable and satellite distribution and affiliates throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. SBS also produces live concerts and events and owns multiple bilingual websites, including www.LaMusica.com, an online destination and mobile app providing content related to Latin music, entertainment, news and culture. For more information, visit us online at www.spanishbroadcasting.com.

About Terry “El Terrible” Cortez
Alberto “El Terrible” Cortez has been in the entertainment business for years inspiring the U.S. Hispanic community to grow personally and professionally. Well known for speaking about topics that matter the most, even when nobody wants to talk about them, El Terrible thrives on bringing out the best of in his listeners. Cortez is innovating, funny and is also known for his originality. When El Terrible is not busy being hosting Al Aire con El Terrible, he enjoys spending time with his family, soccer and local wrestling.

Contact: Vladimir Gomez, 786-805-2545, [email protected]

SOURCE Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

Florida Housing Coalition Announces Major New Initiative: Center for Racial Equity

February 24, 2021

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Feb. 24, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Florida Housing Coalition, the state’s leading nonprofit provider of training and technical assistance dedicated to affordable housing from ending homelessness to first-time homeownership, today announced the creation of new Center for Racial Equity: www.centerforracialequity.org

The Florida Housing Coalition Center for Racial Equity will serve as a composite platform for the Coalition’s efforts focused on race and equity in public and private investments, regulations, and legal and policy frameworks that shape Florida’s neighborhoods, cities, and regions.

“We know two things: Florida—like every other state in the nation—has a housing problem intricately linked with race; and Florida’s cities often look to the Coalition to help them solve housing problems,” Coalition’s President and CEO Jaimie Ross said. “What is the right approach for local communities to take? There are no obvious benchmarks and little to no statewide policy guidance to indicate a single working approach. This is how the Coalition can help,” she added.

The idea for the Center came from discussions among Coalition staff in response to the protests for Black Lives Matter that occurred nationally throughout 2020. “Each of us felt a need to respond to the urgency of the moment in a way that was thoughtful and deliberate and that would move the dial long term,” Coalition Chief Programs Officer Ashon Nesbitt said.

Closing the Racial Disparity Gap in Homeownership
Central to its early efforts is the seminal program Closing the Gap – a matching grant program for municipalities. With funding in place from major underwriters Bank of America and Wells Fargo, the program provides a 3:1 match in technical assistance and resources to close the gap in the homeownership rate between Black and white households.

“Bank of America is helping advance racial equality and economic opportunity, with a particular focus on helping create opportunity for people and communities of color,” said Gene Schaefer, Miami market president for Bank of America. “We are committed to helping multicultural families and communities begin to build personal wealth and family legacy through the power of homeownership.”

The Florida Housing Coalition Center for Racial Equity is being launched with funding by the Wells Fargo Foundation, which is focused on advancing racial equity and creating pathways to safe, affordable homes.

“Having a safe and affordable place to call home is essential to help lay the foundation for wellness, dignity, and economic opportunity,” said Eileen Fitzgerald, head of housing affordability philanthropy with Wells Fargo. “With our support for the Coalition’s Center for Racial Equity, we hope to inspire meaningful change to a long history of systemic inequality, injustice, loss of wealth, and housing instability experienced by people of color, particularly during times of economic distress. We aim to build a more inclusive, sustainable future where everyone can have a quality and affordable place to call home.”

Other Programs the Center is launching with include:

Leading with Equity Online Course
Funders Collaborative & Allies
Glossary of Shared Language
HBCU Internship Program

SOURCE Florida Housing Coalition

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