eMerge Americas Announces 2020 Conference Keynote Lineup

January 21, 2020

Inspiration, Innovation, and a Nod to the Future Take Center Stage at eMERGE Americas 2016

MIAMI, Jan. 21, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — eMerge Americas, the premier technology event connecting the Americas, announced the keynote lineup for its upcoming seventh annual conference in Miami Beach, FL, on March 30-31, 2020.

“Capitalizing on the momentum of a transformational year for our ecosystem, we’re convening world-class innovators, thought-leaders, government officials, and investors to take actionable steps on how to leverage our strengths and address the gaps to take Miami to the next level,” said Felice Gorordo, CEO of eMerge Americas. “We’re excited to showcase the high-impact entrepreneurial talent from across the Americas – and around the globe – for what will undoubtedly be a transformative experience.”

Some of the keynote speakers announced include:

Tony Robbins – Entrepreneur, #1 NY Times bestseller, Life & Business Strategist
Linda Rottenberg – CEO & Cofounder of Endeavor
Alexis Ohanian – Cofounder of Initialized Capital & Reddit
Kevin O’Leary – Entrepreneur, Venture Capitalist, and star of ABC’s Shark Tank
João Doria – Governor of São Paulo, Brazil
Holly Rollo – CMO of RSA
Mary Grove – Partner at Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund
Alexandria Lafci – COO & Cofounder of New Story
Armando Christian Perez aka Pitbull – Grammy-award winning musician, entrepreneur, and investor

“Throughout the year we engage with burgeoning entrepreneurial communities from across the U.S. and Latin America, having robust conversations with key stakeholders about how to foster innovation and support startup ecosystems,” said Melissa Medina, President of eMerge Americas. “The conference is truly a culmination of our year-round programming and initiatives.”

For more information or to register to attend the eMerge Americas 2020 conference, visit www.emergeamericas.com.

About eMerge Americas

eMerge Americas is the premier technology event connecting the Americas held annually at the Miami Beach Convention Center. By connecting global industry leaders and investors with corporate business executives, government leaders, and entrepreneurs, eMerge Americas is transforming Miami into the tech hub of the Americas. In 2019, eMerge Americas attracted over 16,000 attendees and more than 400 participating companies from over 40 countries. eMerge Americas serves as a catalyst in order to foster innovation and investment in South Florida and Latin America. The eMerge Americas founding partners include: Medina Capital, A Rod Corporation, Greenberg Traurig, Knight Foundation, Miami-Dade County, and the Miami Herald. The upcoming eMerge Americas conference is scheduled for March 30-31, 2020. For more information about eMerge Americas, please visit: www.emergeamericas.com.

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SOURCE eMerge Americas

IRS Free File Now Open for 2020-The Free File Alliance Offers Taxpayers Free Industry-Leading Tax Software

January 20, 2020

WASHINGTON, Jan. 20, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Taxpayers can get a head start on preparing their tax returns as Free federal tax preparation and e-filing software is now available at www.IRS.gov/FreeFile to all Americans with a 2019 adjusted gross income (AGI) of $69,000 or less. Powered by The Free File Alliance, a coalition of 10 industry-leading tax software companies partnered with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Free File program gives eligible taxpayers free access to the industry’s most innovative and secure tax software in order to easily prepare and e-file their federal tax returns.

Free File members for tax season 2020 are: 1040Now, Inc.; ezTaxReturn.com (English and Spanish); FileYourTaxes.com; Free Tax Returns.com; H&R Block; Intuit ; On-Line Taxes, Inc.; TaxAct; TaxHawk Inc; and TaxSlayer (English and Spanish).

With the tax filing season not officially opening until January 27^th, eligible taxpayers can get a head start on their taxes by e-filing utilizing the Free File software. More than 70 percent of all taxpayers — approximately 100 million people — are eligible to use Free File, which is available now at www.IRS.gov/FreeFile. Not only is the Free File income limitation $3,000 higher than last year for free federal tax services, but there are also many options for free state tax return preparation. Taxpayers can visit www.IRS.gov/FreeFile and utilize Free File Software Lookup Tool to find free federal and free state return options that match their situation.

Taxpayers can also use their smart phones or tablets to electronically prepare and file their federal and state tax returns through IRS Free File. Taxpayers may access the products using mobile devices in two ways: (1) Use the IRS2Go app, which has a link to the Free File Software Lookup Tool or (2) use the device’s browser to go to www.IRS.gov/freefile. The IRS2Go app is available for Android and iOS devices.

“If your income is $69,000 or less, Free File is there to take the guesswork out of doing your federal tax returns,” said Tim Hugo, executive director of the Free File Alliance. “Our software offers step-by-step help to get your federal taxes done quickly, safely, securely and at absolutely no cost. In addition, active duty military personnel with incomes of $69,000 or less may use Free File software product offered by nine of the tax preparation companies without regard to criteria.”

The Free File Alliance and its members continue to make a priority the protection of taxpayers’ personal information through its participation in the Security Summit Initiative. The Alliance and its members, along with the IRS, state tax agencies and others in the tax industry, are active participants in the Security Summit Initiative in order to provide additional identity theft safeguards for tax filing. To learn more about the Security Awareness campaign, visit the IRS webpage at: Taxes, Security, Together.

Hugo continued, “The Free File program has provided almost 57 million returns valued at an estimated $1.7 billion in free tax software over the last 17 years, and we hope to see even more taxpayers take advantage of the service in 2020. IRS.gov/Free File is the one place where taxpayers can choose from a variety of the industry’s most innovative and secure tax software options.”

Starting January 27, basic federal e-filing services, called Free File Fillable Forms, will also be available regardless of income level. Free File Fillable Forms allows taxpayers who are familiar with tax law and need no preparation assistance to complete and file their federal income tax electronically.

By making industry-leading tax software available at no cost, Free File has introduced millions of Americans, many of whom could not otherwise afford tax software, to the efficiency and ease of e-filing. The program has continually advanced the IRS’ e-filing initiative, while meeting a critical need for affordable, quality tax software options. Responding to an IRS survey, 96 percent of users said they found Free File easy to use, while 98 percent said they would recommend the program to others.

Remember, the best way to access Free File and its free federal tax return preparation options is by visiting IRS.gov/FreeFile.

About the Free File Alliance
The Free File Alliance, a coalition of 10 industry-leading tax software companies, has partnered with the IRS since 2003 to help low and middle-income Americans prepare, complete and e-file their federal tax returns online. The Free File Alliance is committed to giving 70 percent of taxpayers free access to the industry’s top online tax preparation software. Almost 57 million returns have been filed through Free File since its inception. For more information, visit www.freefilealliance.org.

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SOURCE Free File Alliance

Alcohol Justice Reports: Hundreds Of Concerned L.A. Residents Demand Action From Los Angeles City Leaders

January 20, 2020

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 20, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Alcohol Justice is reporting that hundreds of L.A. residents attended a Los Angeles Drug and Alcohol Policy Alliance (L.A.DAPA) press conference Friday, January 17, 2020 at Los Angeles City Hall to express their disappointment that Planning and Land Use Management (PLUM) Committee Chair Marqueece Harris-Dawson will not take action that would protect communities from alcohol-related harms.

The community is demanding the Alcohol Restricted Use Subdistrict (ARUS) Motion be placed on the agenda at the PLUM Committee. ARUS would allow residents to decide whether more alcohol-related businesses (bars, nightclubs, liquor stores) should open up in high crime areas, near neighborhoods already oversaturated with bars and/or liquor stores, or near churches, parks or schools.

Chair Member Marqueece Harris-Dawson abruptly shut down any further movement on ARUS, which had been languishing in his committee since 2017. Public health advocates expected that a feasibility study would be the next action. Since ARUS was introduced nearly three years ago, activists and advocates rallied, protested and testified to emphasize how ARUS would benefit areas oversaturated with alcohol businesses. Health and safety advocates held meetings with individual Council Members and none of them expressed any reservations about agreeing to a feasibility study.

The council file on ARUS (17-0117) contains more than 300 letters and petitions from Neighborhood Councils, non-profits and community organizations pleading with Council to take action on ARUS. The latest letter of support was filed just two months ago (11/11/19). But Harris-Dawson said no further actions would be allowed on this issue, which means the motion expires on January 31.

This decision is disappointing and shocking, in light of new data from the National Institutes of Health showing that nearly 1 million people in the U.S. died of alcohol related causes in the last 20 years due to increased alcohol consumption. Alcohol problems also affect entire communities, as described in new Alcohol Outlet Factsheets developed by independent research firm Harder and Company.

The Factsheets, released last October, reveal that all 15 City Council Districts have areas where alcohol density exceeds California Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) guidelines by 300 percent or more. Additionally, the Alcohol Outlet Factsheets show correlations between alcohol density and crime. Council District 4 had the biggest alcohol density, with a whopping 70% of census tracts that exceed ABC guidelines. Of that 70%, 46% have above average crime rates. Conversely, 87% of census tracts in CD4 that met ABC guidelines have at or below average crime rates. Loren Bustillo is a resident of Koreatown, which is part of District 4.

“I see the damage that alcohol has caused in my community, since I have seen people intoxicated in public areas around liquor stores,” stated Loren Bustillo, resident of Koreatown (Council District 4). “The behavior of these people increases crime, violence and theft, causing more damage to families. Alcohol makes the community feel insecure.”

Miriam Castro lives in Council District 1 (Pico-Union/Westlake) where 42% of the area exceeds ABC guidelines. “On many occasions when I walk to buy necessities for my home, I have had to evade intoxicated people in order to avoid being attacked. The same goes for young people leaving schools, and families who walk to their homes. ARUS (17-0117) is important to the communities and me because it protects my neighborhood and community from alcohol-related incidents. It will help us regain control of the well-being and security of our community,” Castro added.

Even teenagers see the need for action to prevent additional liquor stores in areas where there are already significant numbers of alcohol businesses. “I live next to a liquor store and I see a lot of homeless people around drinking,” said 14-year-old Anthony who attends the Variety Boys and Girls Club after school program in Boyle Heights. Anthony and 200 of his peers signed petitions demanding action on ARUS by the City Council.

With ARUS still a long way from implementation, public health and safety advocates are only asking for a feasibility study at this point. “Even after numerous news releases, meetings, research presented and substantial community support, no action has been taken,” said Brenda Villanueva, Co-Chair of the L.A. Drug and Alcohol Policy Alliance (L.A.DAPA). “We are asking that ARUS be agendized by the PLUM Committee to open up the needed discussion of mitigating alcohol density in the neighborhoods of Los Angeles.”

Despite the research linking crime to high alcohol density throughout Los Angeles, at least 500 alcohol licenses are currently waiting for approval. According to the California Business Code, alcohol licenses should be limited based on a ratio of population per census tract in order to protect public health and safety.

Read More: Links to Alcohol Fact Sheets: https://bit.ly/367bZBK

CONTACT:	Jorge Castillo 213 840-3336
	Michael Scippa 415 548-0492

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SOURCE Alcohol Justice

ATRESCINE, stronger in Mexico

January 20, 2020

The newest member of ATRESMEDIA Internacional’s lineup is now available on channel 909 HD from cable operator IZZI

Atrescine and its 7,000+ titles are the result of an agreement with Video Mercury Films, the largest distributor of Spanish films in the world

MADRID, Jan. 20, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Coinciding with its second anniversary on air, Atrescine continues to grow after closing an agreement with the Televisa Group to add it to the lineup of its cable operator, IZZI.

This alliance allows the ATRESMEDIA Internacional movie channel to strengthen its position in the desirable Mexican market, where it first arrived in September thanks to Blim, also owned by the Televisa Group. With this addition, IZZI now has the entire portfolio of ATRESMEDIA Internacional channels, which, together with the finest Spanish cinema of all time from Atrescine, includes the best news and entertainment from Antena 3 Internacional, great Atreseries premieres, and the exclusive access to the royal houses and the lives of today’s hottest celebrities that only ¡HOLA! TV can provide.

Specifically, Atrescine is accessible to Mexican viewers on IZZI channel 909 HD, and features the best catalog of all time and genres – more than 7,000 titles – thanks to the alliance with Video Mercury Films, with movies such as Las Trece Rosas, El Último Cuplé, Abre los Ojos, El Robo más Grande Jamás Contado, Tesis and A los que Aman on offer.

For the General Manager of ATRESMEDIA Internacional, Mar Martínez-Raposo, “The agreement with IZZI enhances our position in Mexico and shows our commitment to cinema, one of the most in-demand formats right now, which is complemented perfectly by the programming on the other ATRESMEDIA channels, which are also available on IZZI.”

LINK TO DOWNLOAD TRAILER

LINK TO DOWNLOAD PHOTOS

Dirección de Comunicación y Relaciones Públicas | [email protected] | @Atrescine | +34 91 623 49 67

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SOURCE Atresmedia

Juan García’s New Book Conociendo Las Señales De Los Tiempos, A Thought-Provoking Book That Unveils Prophecies About The End Of The World In God’s Design

January 20, 2020

HARTFORD, Connecticut, Jan. 20, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The book Conociendo las Señales de los Tiempos was created by Juan García. Juan is an author who has studied theology, ancient history, and prophecies of the last days. He was born in the Dominican Republic and is interested in biblical prophecies. Today, he is an expert in prophetic matters.

Juan García said this about his book: “After I finished writing this book, I had several visions during the night in which God has shown me several events that were about to happen in the world, especially in the United States of America. The Lord has told me that I must publish this book as soon as possible so the world will be prepared and can face the great events that will come. We should not be prolonging our preparation any longer. The end comes, and the prophecies are fulfilled every day before our eyes.

In the visions I received, terrible and other fantastic scenes were revealed to me, and these things that I saw have motivated me to write the next book in which I will discuss in detail what I saw. It was revealed to me when the time of grace for the world ends. When the judgment of the living began, I saw the small group that will stand before the crisis of anguish that awaits us, the time of Sunday law. I saw the little horn rise above others and make war. I saw the war that will come and other things that the Lord revealed to me.

Shortly after finishing this book; a prophecy was fulfilled that I had written here saying it would happen soon, and it was the closing of the federal government. I wanted to publish this book as soon as possible because God told me to do it. His word has to be fulfilled, and this is his word—what is written here. God revealed it to me through his Spirit, and he told me that his words are faithful and true. Hopefully, we can understand the time in which we live today. The time that awaits us, the Lord revealed to me—that for the month of April or May of this year (2019), an unprecedented crisis is coming, and we must be prepared. In the next book, I will talk in more detail about all these things. It is time to return to God; it is time to return home.

Peace be with you. SHALOM.”

Published by Page Publishing, Juan García’s new book Conociendo las Señales de los Tiempos will remind readers of the impending fulfillment of the Lord’s finality for the world as told by prophets of old and written in his Holy Word.

Consumers who wish to be enlightened with the divine plan for the salvation of souls during the end of time can purchase Conociendo las Señales de los Tiempos 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:

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/1078025/Juan_Garcia.jpg

SOURCE Page Publishing

Jaime A. Espinoza and Edgar Van Den’s new book, The Wish To Live, is a biography where we see the best and the worst of the human beings in the Chilean regime from 1973 to 1990.

January 20, 2020

NEW YORK, Jan. 20, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Jaime A. Espinoza, a Chilean by birth, belonged to the Chilean Navy from 1971 to 1973, and was arrested and held in jails and concentration camps in Chile from 1973 to 1975. His exciting life is the content of this book.

Edgar Van Den Berghe is the co-author of this wonderful biography. He is an Industrial Economist with Specializations in Business Administration and University Teaching. He has a PhD in Business Administration. He has been a university professor in Colombia for 35 years, as well as an entrepreneur and business speaker.

The Wish To Live, revives the worst days of the author’s life and also brings us those moments of light and hope that helped him overcome the darkest moments in his life.

The book describes in an entertaining way, the author’s life since his childhood, with the mischief of his age; its connection and stay in the Chilean Navy, the adventures lived as a sailor on the Quiriquina Island, the Naval Base of Punta Arenas and Valparaíso. It shares his detention in the Quinta Normal in Santiago de Chile, in prisons and concentration camps, the torments he had to endure and the several times he was one step away from death, unjustly accused of sedition and mutiny at the trial of the sailors Constitutionalists who expressed their opinion about the military coup of September 11, 1973, despite rejecting the Navy’s seditious plans, officially not part of the group and its opposition. The situation that our author went through was clearly personal.

Published by New York City based Page Publishing, Jaime A. Espinoza and Edgar Van Den Berghe’s tale The Wish To Live, tells readers the author’s life, his ups and downs in the military world and how he survived the cruelty of Chile in 1973.

Readers who wish to experience this brilliant work can purchase The Wish To Live at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional New York based 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/1078055/Jaime_A__Espinoza.jpg

SOURCE Page Publishing

Lennar Announces January 17 Grand Opening of Manzana Pointe

January 17, 2020

SAN ANTONIO, Texas, Jan. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Lennar, the nation’s leading homebuilder, today announced plans to debut Manzana Pointe, on Friday, January 17. This Converse-based community offers prospective homebuyers the opportunity to purchase an affordable and value driven home without missing out on features such as energy efficiency and a full appliance package.

“We’re here to support the first-time homebuyer and show them that they can stop paying monthly rent and finally invest in a home of their own,” said Brian Barron, Division President of Lennar San Antonio. “Converse is a fast-growing subdivision of San Antonio and buying early will be ideal as prices in this area are predicted to raise with development.”

At Manzana Pointe, home shoppers have seven different floorplans to choose from. These homes provide a variety of home sizes and styles that range from approximately 466 to 1,880 square feet of living space, one to four bedrooms and one to two bathrooms. Prices start from the $130,000s.

Each new home at Manzana Pointe will offer the homebuilder’s signature Everything’s Included® program. The homeowners will also enjoy the granite countertops, luxury hard surfaces, and full stainless-steel appliance package at no extra cost.

Manzana Pointe is located Northeast San Antonio in Converse, a fast-growing part of the city. The community is situated near four main roadways allowing for quick access to shopping and dining destinations. Downtown San Antonio is also just a simple 15-minute drive from this community.

About Lennar

Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title and closing services primarily for buyers of Lennar’s homes and, through Rialto Mortgage Finance, originates mortgage loans secured primarily by commercial real estate properties throughout the United States. Lennar Ventures drives Lennar’s technology and innovation strategies. For more information about Lennar, please visit www.lennar.com.

Contact: Danielle Tocco
Vice President Communications
Lennar Corporation
[email protected]
Direct Line: 949.789.1633

SOURCE Lennar

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Brings Even More Thrills to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort

January 17, 2020

Fifty menacing First Order Stormtroopers await guests as they arrive in the hangar bay of a Star Destroyer as part of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the groundbreaking new attraction now open at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park in California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance takes guests into a climactic battle between the Resistance and the First Order. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

ANAHEIM, Calif., Jan. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The groundbreaking new Disney attraction Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is now open at Disneyland Park in California, adding to the immersive adventures available to guests inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

As the largest single-themed land expansion in Disney history, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is already proving wildly popular by inviting guests to live their own Star Wars adventures in a galaxy far, far away. They join a climactic battle between the Resistance and the First Order in Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and take control of the most famous ship in the galaxy aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. And while exploring this expansive new 14-acre land, they can sample galactic food and drink, enter an intriguing collection of merchant shops and encounter some of their favorite Star Wars characters, including the resourceful and loyal astromech droid R2-D2.

“Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is epic, immersive storytelling on a massive scale—and our Imagineers have created an attraction that sets a new bar for theme park experiences,” said Bob Chapek, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance puts guests at the heart of their very own Star Wars adventure, and is the most advanced, action-packed attraction Disney has ever created.”

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which also appears at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, has been recognized by several prestigious organizations for excellence in design and execution:

Academy Award-winning® composer John Williams was nominated for a Grammy by The Recording Academy in the Best Instrumental Composition category for “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Symphonic Suite.”
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was named to TIME’s list of World’s Greatest Places 2019, recognizing destinations that are breaking new ground and leading industry trends.
The land earned two Thea Awards from the Themed Entertainment Association. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge won Outstanding Achievement – New Park Land, and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run won Outstanding Achievement – Attraction.
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions honored the land with three Brass Rings during its annual awards gala in November. Savi’s Workshop won for Best Hard Good Item; Droid Depot won for Best Visual Merchandising; and the lovable Porg won for Best Plush Item.
The Toy Association nominated the buildable droids in Droid Depot for 2020 Creative Toy of the Year.

These accolades speak to an entirely new kind of Disney experience happening every day inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. And now the next grand chapter in this story is about to unfold with the debut of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

Welcome to the Edge of Wild Space: Black Spire Outpost on Batuu
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge builds off decades of collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Lucasfilm Ltd., a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production, including the Star Wars franchise. The work on Star Wars between these two creative powerhouses dates back to 1987, when the original Star Tours attraction opened at Disneyland.

They came together once again for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, transporting guests to the remote planet Batuu, a new location in a story that began in 1977 with the first Star Wars film. It is a far-flung destination along the galaxy’s Outer Rim, on the frontier of Wild Space – the uncharted region beyond all known star systems. The planet is home to Black Spire Outpost, an infamous port for smugglers, traders and adventurers wishing to avoid any unnecessary … entanglements with the First Order.

When guests arrive on Batuu, they come across aliens, droids and other inhabitants of this planet as they search for rare and unique goods, discover unusual food and drink, or join a crew seeking adventures. Along the way, guests may encounter some familiar faces, including Rey, Chewbacca or even Supreme Leader Kylo Ren and his Stormtroopers.

Star Wars Adventures Come to Life in Two Thrilling Attractions
For more than four decades, fans of Star Wars films have imagined what it would be like to race through the halls of a Star Destroyer or blast across the stars inside the Millennium Falcon. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge features two signature attractions that turn those dreams into reality.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance brings guests into the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance, including a faceoff with Kylo Ren. The journey takes guests aboard a full-size transport shuttle and then into a nearby Star Destroyer on a thrilling adventure that blurs the lines between fantasy and reality. One of the most immersive, ambitious and technologically advanced experiences in Disney history, the attraction uses multiple ride systems working together to create a seamless story on a cinematic scale. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance opened Jan. 17, 2020, at Disneyland Park in California, and opened in December 2019 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida. A virtual queue* for the new attraction is available at Disneyland Park. Guests must be inside Disneyland Park with their tickets scanned to obtain a boarding group in the virtual queue. Guests can learn more about the virtual queue at Disneyland.com.

In Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, guests climb into the cockpit of “the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy” for their own Star Wars adventures. They take the controls of the Falcon in one of three unique and critical roles as the ship hurtles through space. Some are pilots, some gunners and some engineers, creating multiple ways for guests to engage with the attraction in an experience that responds in real time to the actions they take.

A Diverse Menu of Food and Beverages Await
What does Blue Milk or Green Milk actually taste like? That question and more is answered when guests visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and experience the new land’s expansive array of food and beverages. Vendors offer various local favorites such as an Outpost Mix of flavored popped grains from Kat Saka’s Kettle, a unique popcorn snack with a combination of sweet, savory and spicy flavors.

At Oga’s Cantina,** even the blaster-bolt scorches on the walls tell a story. Here, guests gather to share their tales from around the galaxy as they enjoy exotic beverages served in unique vessels and listen to spirited musical entertainment provided by DJ R-3X, otherwise known as Rex, the former Starspeeder 3000 pilot droid from the original Star Tours. Rex re-invents himself as the cantina’s DJ, and he’s as quirky and talkative as ever.

A multi-purpose transport shuttle docked on top of a large hangar beckons guests into Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, a designated location for traveling food shuttles. Chef Strono “Cookie” Tuggs is in much demand for his culinary skills, so he moves from site to site in a modified Sienar-Chall Utilipede-Transport that becomes a mobile kitchen and restaurant. His travels across the galaxy allow him to fill his pantry with exotic ingredients he uses to make new and unusual dishes. He is proud to present Tuggs’ Grub, a “traveling diner for diners traveling,” inspired by dishes he created during his time working for Maz Kanata on Takodana.

Elsewhere, Ronto Roasters draws attention with its large podracing engine firing up a barbecue pit for mouth-watering Ronto Wraps. When hungry customers queue up to order, they encounter a former smelter droid, carefully turning the spit of meats. Guests can also choose from a variety of exotic non-alcoholic drinks like the Sour Sarlacc or Tatooine Sunset.

The Milk Stand offers two local favorites – Blue Milk and Green Milk. Blue Milk was first seen in “Star Wars: A New Hope” when Luke Skywalker sat down for a family meal. Green Milk was introduced in “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” when Luke lived on the planet Ahch-To. Now, thirsty guests can order these colorful frozen drinks as they live their own Star Wars adventures.

Take a Piece of the Star Wars Galaxy Home
In Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge guests encounter a robust collection of merchant shops and stalls filled with authentic Star Wars creations.

The Droid Depot** invites guests to construct their own astromech droids. Patrons pick pieces off a conveyor belt to build one of two core models (R-series or BB-series) and they can customize their droids with various parts and colors. These droids interact with elements throughout the land, enhancing guests’ adventures. Additional accessories can be added to further customize these new friends. The Droid Depot also offers pre-built droids, droid-inspired toys and apparel, and more.

At Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers,*** guests have the opportunity to craft and customize their very own lightsabers. In this mystical experience, guests feel the Force as they build these elegant weapons from a more civilized age.

Inside Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, guests find a selection of rare and mysterious items for sale, representing different eras of the Star Wars galaxy including holocrons, ancient Jedi and Sith artifacts, lightsabers and more. As they explore the nooks and crannies of the shop, guests also see Dok-Ondar at his desk as the large Ithorian checks his inventory and barks the occasional order at his assistants.

In addition to these special experiences, the Black Spire Outpost marketplace features the Creature Stall dedicated to the plethora of rare and fascinating creatures that populate the galaxy, as well as Black Spire Outfitters, showcasing the latest in galactically trendy apparel and accessories. The Toydarian Toymaker stall is full of toys and games crafted by a Toydarian (the flying alien species first seen in “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace”). And all tourists visiting Batuu will want to make a stop at Jewels of Bith, offering “trinkets to treasure” and other accessories.

Guests can also demonstrate where their loyalties lie with the gear and accessories they purchase within the land. Resistance Supply is a “makeshift” location at the Resistance encampment, selling pins, badges, hats and other accessories to help guests feel like part of the cause. First Order Cargo, meanwhile, is a temporary First Order storage dock easily identified by a never-before-seen First Order TIE echelon ship. The cargo location offers guests a chance to pledge their loyalty by purchasing pins, caps, gear, model ships and more.

Play Disney Parks Mobile App Deepens Guest Engagement with the Land^ϮStar Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the first land within a Disney park designed to integrate with the Play Disney Parks mobile app. The app debuted in 2018 and offers interactive adventures and experiences that bring surrounding environments to life at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.

When guests choose to use the Play Disney Parks app in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, they will be able to transform it into their very own Star Wars: Datapad. Using the app provides new opportunities for guests to engage with the land, such as translating a galactic language or learning what’s hidden inside crates and containers.

In addition, guests can use the Play Disney Parks app to interact with elements in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including droids, blinking door panels and antenna arrays. Throughout the day, guests may participate in a multiplayer game throughout the land, “Outpost Control,” to support either the Resistance or the First Order.

Iconic Musical Score for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Music has been an integral part of Star Wars from the moment the iconic themes of Academy Award-winning® composer John Williams first introduced fans to this galaxy. The music for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge continues that tradition with a suite of all-new Williams-composed themes written especially for the land and its attractions. Along with a collection of original cantina songs created by composers and songwriters from around the globe, this new music will deepen guests’ connection to the land as Williams complements and builds upon the fanfares he created for the Star Wars films.

For more information about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, visit DisneylandNews.com, WDWNews.com, DisneyParksBlog.com and StarWars.com.

* Admission into Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is subject to capacity and joining the virtual queue does not guarantee entrance to the attraction. Visit Disneyland.com for more information.

** Reservations for Droid Depot can be made in advance at Disneyland.com or through the Disneyland mobile app. A valid accepted credit card number is required at the time of booking, and guests will need to check availability. Droid Depot may also accommodate walk-ins each day, subject to availability. Separate Disneyland Park admission is required.

*** Oga’s Cantina and Savi’s Workshop now offer advance reservations, which are highly recommended. Additional reservations will be made available each day at 7:00am PST for visits that day, subject to availability. Guests will need to check availability and make reservations online at Disneyland.com/Cantina or Disneyland.com/SavisWorkshop or through the Disneyland mobile app. Separate Disneyland Park admission is required.

^ϮMessage, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations and device settings, and features may vary by handset, service provider or otherwise. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. Some features require separate theme park admission. Some experiences require in-app purchases.

About the Disneyland Resort
The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, 973-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel with its “day-at-the-beach” theme. For information on attractions and vacations at the Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort opened July 17, 1955. Open daily, year-round.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1078347/Fifty_menacing_First_Order_Stormtroopers.jpg

SOURCE Disneyland Resort

Blue Shield of California Commits $20 Million to Support Gov. Newsom’s Initiative to Tackle Homelessness, Behavioral Health Services

January 17, 2020

OAKLAND, Calif., Jan. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Blue Shield of California today announced a $20 million contribution to the California Access to Housing and Services fund Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed in his 2020-2021 budget.

The governor announced the fund last week to help solve the state’s homelessness crisis together with reforms to Medi-Cal to better integrate physical and behavioral health.

Blue Shield is one of the first companies to respond to the governor’s call for donations from philanthropy and the private sector to support initiatives such as additional affordable housing units, rent subsidies and supportive services for Californians in need.

“Addressing homelessness is a key step in ensuring health and wellness for individuals and families,” said Paul Markovich, President & CEO, Blue Shield of California. “Our commitment to healthy families and healthy communities is at the core of our mission to transform our healthcare system into one that is worthy of our family and friends and sustainably affordable. We look forward to working with the governor to improve the quality of life for Californians and encourage others in the private sector to step up.”

“No one sector can solve the homelessness crisis alone. It’s our collective responsibility to meet this moment with bold action and intentional leadership – and that’s exactly what Blue Shield’s leadership is doing,” Gov. Newsom said. “Just days after I announced the creation of the California Access to Housing and Services fund, Blue Shield responded immediately by investing $20 million to help individuals experiencing homelessness across California gain access to housing and health services. I hope that Blue Shield’s generosity and compassion will serve as a model for others to follow.”

Today’s announcement is the latest example of Blue Shield’s efforts to support communities in California. The nonprofit health plan through the Blue Shield of California Foundation has contributed more than $100 million in the past three years to help end the cycle of domestic violence and make California the healthiest state in the nation. Last month, Blue Shield also announced the Blue Shield of California BlueSky initiative, a statewide, multi-year effort to support mental health and resiliency for California students.

About Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California strives to create a health care system worthy of our family and friends that is sustainably affordable. We are a tax paying, not for profit, independent member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association with over 4 million members, 6,800 employees and more than $20 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 health care service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $500 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation since 2002 to have an impact on California communities.

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

Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

CONTACT:	Matthew Yi
	Blue Shield of California
	510-607-2359
	[email protected]

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/810201/blue_jpg_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Blue Shield of California

(Español) La CPSC advierte a los consumidores que dejen de usar la cuna mecedora SwaddleMe By Your Bed Sleeper de Summer Infant (USA), Inc.

January 17, 2020

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