Canada Life Reinsurance enters into €12bn longevity risk reinsurance agreement with Aegon

December 19, 2019

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, Dec. 19, 2019 /CNW/ – Canada Life Reinsurance is pleased to announce that it has recently entered into a long-term longevity reinsurance agreement with Aegon covering €12 billion of in-force liabilities. Close to 200,000 of in-payment and deferred pensioners will be reinsured by Canada Life Reinsurance under this agreement.

Jeff Poulin, Global Head of Canada Life Reinsurance, commented, “This transaction is the result of a great effort by both our team and Aegon’s team and highlights Canada Life Reinsurance’s strength as a partner for reinsurance longevity transactions globally”. Derek Popkes, Chief Operating Officer at Canada Life Reinsurance, added “We are delighted to grow and diversify our global longevity portfolio by working with Aegon to deliver a transformational longevity transaction tailored to their specific requirements. We will continue to innovate and work in partnership with our valued clients to deliver the best risk transfer solutions matching their objectives.”

Canada Life Reinsurance offers a range of innovative risk and capital management solutions covering mortality, longevity, health and lapse risks for insurers, reinsurers and pension funds across the U.S. and Europe, including the Netherlands, the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Belgium and Ireland.

About Aegon
Aegon’s roots go back 175 years – to the first half of the nineteenth century. Since then, Aegon has grown into an international company, with businesses in more than 20 countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia. Today, Aegon is one of the world’s leading financial services organizations, providing life insurance, pensions and asset management. Aegon’s purpose is to help people achieve a lifetime of financial security. More information on www.aegon.com.

About Canada Life Reinsurance
Canada Life Reinsurance is a division of The Canada Life Assurance Company and certain of its subsidiaries and affiliates. The Canada Life Assurance Company is a subsidiary of Great-West Lifeco Inc.

About Great-West Lifeco
Great-West Lifeco Inc. (TSX:GWO) is an international financial services holding company with interests in life insurance, health insurance, retirement and investment services, asset management and reinsurance businesses. Great-West Lifeco has operations in Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia through Canada Life, Empower Retirement, Putnam Investments, and Irish Life. At the end of 2018, our companies had approximately 24,200 employees, 240,000 advisor relationships, and thousands of distribution partners – all serving our more than 31 million customer relationships across these regions.
Great-West Lifeco and its companies have €1.1 trillion (approximately C$1.6 trillion) * in consolidated assets under administration and are members of the Power Financial Corporation group of companies.

*as at September 30, 2019

SOURCE Canada Life Reinsurance

Toyota’s Fourth Generation 2020 Highlander Redesigned from the Ground Up

December 18, 2019

PLANO, Texas, Dec. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The fourth-generation Toyota Highlander brings a new level of bold, distinctive design to a foundation built on safety, comfort, quality, durability and reliability. The Highlander gas model will be available this month and the Highlander hybrid will make its way to customers in February 2020.

Just as the first RAV4 launched the compact crossover SUV segment 22 years ago, the original Highlander redefined the midsize family SUV when it arrived in 2001. At a time when most midsize SUVs were truck-based, the Highlander’s unibody structure with four-wheel independent suspension quickly became the template for a new segment of more comfortable and family-friendly SUVs. After adding a third row, the Highlander not only grew in size, but is also now the best-selling retail model in the segment since 2016.

Now, the 2020 Highlander amplifies all qualities while taking on a dramatic new design direction that combines a powerful SUV presence with sophisticated detailing.

The new sophisticated SUV sits on a new vehicle platform called Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA-K). This robust new foundation, shared with other Toyota models, enables even greater capability, comfort and safety than before.

The fourth-generation Highlander offers the choice between a powerful V6 or new-generation hybrid powertrain, with the gas version offering up to a manufacturer-estimated 24 MPG combined fuel economy and the Hybrid offering up to a manufacturer-estimated 36 combined MPG.

Whether they’re young families or empty nesters exploring a new chapter in life, safety remains the top priority for Highlander customers. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 comes standard in all models in the 2020 Highlander. This comprehensive active safety system includes:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
Automatic High Beam (AHB)
(New) Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
(New) Road Sign Assist (RSA)

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection offers automatic braking capability under certain circumstances should the driver not react in time in a system-detected emergency situation. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Parking Support Braking and Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) are available depending on the model grade.

The 2020 Highlander delivers renowned Toyota value in a choice of five grades, starting with a new L grade, then layering amenities and technology in LE, XLE, Limited and the top-of line Platinum. (The hybrid is offered on all but the L grade.)

The 2020 Highlander offers cutting-edge entertainment and connectivity for all ages through its intuitive and versatile multimedia system, including a new 12.3-inch touchscreen display on the Platinum grade and 8-inch on the other models. The available new JBL Premium Sound System delivers a whopping 1,200 watts of power to turn any music source into a mobile concert.

The midsize SUV segment has become fiercely competitive, and the 2020 Toyota Highlander is ready to take on all.

The Strong, Athletic Type
A sculpted new shape with chiseled lines gives the 2020 Highlander a more powerful stance, yet with a modern, sophisticated attitude. The 2020 Highlander remains a family-friendly SUV, now with capability for bigger family adventures.

Setting off the new design, the L, LE and XLE grades feature a black front grille with silver trim, while the Limited and Platinum grades are distinguished by a black grille with chrome trim and chrome-plated lower rear fascia, premium projector headlamps and the Highlander’s first-ever 20-inch alloy wheels. The Platinum grade stands apart with silver painted front bumper and rear fascia and a unique 20-inch wheel.

Accentuating the 2020 Highlander’s bold lines, the exterior color palette carries over three colors from 2019 (Blizzard Pearl ($425 option), Celestial Silver Metallic and Midnight Black Metallic) while adding five new ones: Magnetic Gray Metallic, Moon Dust (a striking blue premium paint), Ruby Flare Pearl (a daring red premium paint), Blueprint and Opulent Amber (a deep, luxurious brown).

While Highlander’s new design will turn heads everywhere it goes, it’s also highly functional. Greater aerodynamic efficiency reduces wind noise while enhancing vehicle stability, and even the taillights and side mirror designs lend a hand.

The fourth-generation Highlander is 2.36 inches (60mm) longer, all in the cargo area to add even greater cargo volume than before. The second row slides an extra 1.2 inches further up to increase distance between the second and third rows.

The TNGA-K platform, which makes extensive use of high-strength steel, gives the Highlander a stiffer unibody structure than the previous model. Its inherent strength allows tuning for the front strut and rear multi-link suspension that enhances agility and a smaller turning circle while also providing a smoother and quieter ride than before.

The presence of takumi is evident whenever the driver experiences the Highlander’s premium touch and feel in everyday driving. Throughout vehicle development, these highly trained master craftsmen focused on the finest technical details to ensure a higher level of operating smoothness in all driving conditions,especially at everyday speeds.

Take It All with You
Looking sporty does not come at the expense of practicality in the 2020 Highlander. The L and LE grades come standard with a second-row bench for seating for eight, while the XLE and Limited grade come standard with a Captain’s Chair second row with seating for seven and the option of a second-row bench for seating for eight. Finally, the Platinum grade will come standard with a Captain’s Chair second row with seating for seven. Either way, the large rear doors provide easy access, while versatile seat folding features make it easy to enter the third row. And, passengers in the third row stay comfortable thanks to standard three-zone climate control that ensures ample flow of warmed or cooled air.

With all seat rows in use, Highlander offers 16.0 cu. ft. of carrying space behind the third row. Folding the 60/40 split fold-flat third-row seatbacks opens the space to 48.4 cu. ft., and then folding the second row raises that to 84.3 cu. ft. The versatile cargo area makes the most of its additional length with side surfaces and pockets shaped for maximum space usage.

Power, Performance and Panache … with Efficiency
Power and efficiency are a whole lot sexier when wrapped in Highlander’s striking design. The 2020 Highlander offers a choice between two advanced powertrains, a gas V6 or a new version of the Toyota Hybrid System.

The 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 is the epitome of smoothness. Its Toyota-innovated D-4S Injection system combines direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors to optimize efficiency, power and emissions in all conditions. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) likewise ensures ideal response and efficiency at all engine speeds.

That translates into 295 horsepower and 263 lb.-ft. of torque, which further translates into exemplary everyday performance and generous towing capability. The Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission maximizes Highlander’s acceleration and highway merging capability while operating seamlessly and transparently.

On V6 models, the available towing package enables a 5,000-pound towing capacity. The package includes a heavy-duty radiator with engine oil cooler and improved fan performance. Trailer Sway Control (TSC) uses the Vehicle Stability Control to help control unwanted trailer movement.

Why use fuel when you don’t need to? The Highlander’s standard Stop and Start Engine System allows the engine to shut off when the vehicle comes to a complete stop, and then instantly restarts when the driver’s foot lifts from the brake pedal. This technology reduces fuel consumption and cuts emissions.

Hybrid Aims Even Higher
Toyota made “hybrid” synonymous with high fuel efficiency more than 20 years ago. Later, Toyota introduced the first hybrid SUV in its class, the 2006 Highlander. Leave it to Toyota to again raise the bar for hybrid SUV functionality by making the 2020 model the most fuel-efficient Highlander Hybrid ever.

The new-generation Toyota Hybrid System in the 2020 Highlander Hybrid combines a high-efficiency 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with two electric motors in a system that’s more compact, and more efficient than before. The gas engine employs Variable Valve Timing-intelligent system by Electric motor (VVT-iE) on the intake camshaft, and VVT-i on the exhaust camshaft. A variable cooling system (electric water pump, electric thermostat) and a fully variable oil pump further improve engine efficiency.

The bottom line is an eye opener for the efficiency-minded: 243 total system horsepower and up to a manufacturer-estimated 36 combined MPG. The latter is a 24-percent improvement over the previous-generation Highlander Hybrid’s 29 combined MPG. Yet, Highlander Hybrid still delivers the everyday acceleration, power and responsiveness that family buyers expect. In another Highlander first, the hybrid is now available in either 2WD or AWD, further expanding hybrid technology to a new group of buyers.

The transaxle mounts the electric motors (MG1 and MG2) coaxially rather than in-line, and the resulting smaller and lighter package reduces frictional losses. The gas engine and MG2 work in concert to deliver dynamic performance, while both MG1 and MG2 charge the hybrid battery.

To reduce the transaxle’s size and weight, the reduction gear is now a parallel shaft gear, rather than a planetary gear, and a new multi-function gear integrates the power-split planetary ring gear, parking gear, and counter-drive gear. New computer integration and a smaller, lighter power stack installed directly above the transaxle reduce energy transmission losses.

The battery pack is small enough to be installed under the rear seats, so it does not take up any cargo or passenger space.

Seamless Everyday Performance
The Highlander hybrid delivers its exemplary fuel economy and performance without calling attention to its high-tech powertrain operation. Quite the contrary, like all Toyota Hybrid vehicles, it simply goes about its business in a transparent way. For example, the new system optimizes the level of electric motor assistance and gas engine speed without the engine running at high revs. Engine speed is synchronized with vehicle speed, yielding effortless and quiet acceleration.

As on many modern vehicles, the Highlander hybrid offers selectable NORMAL, ECO and SPORT driving modes that let the driver choose the vehicle’s performance personality. The bonus is the EV mode, which allows electric-only driving at low speeds for short distances.

SPORT mode unlocks boost from the hybrid system for improved acceleration response. ECO mode gets maximum efficiency from the fuel and battery, while NORMAL mode is ideal for everyday driving.

Special, easy-to-use hybrid tech adds an element of control and fun. Using a sequential shifting feature, the driver can “downshift” to increase the regenerative braking in steps, which fosters greater control when driving in hilly areas, for example.

The 2020 Highlander hybrid can also coach the driver to drive as economically as possible. For example, an accelerator guide function suggests an acceleration level to the driver according to the driving conditions, and a scoring function adds a measure of fun-to-eco driving.

Features for More Efficiency
Highlander hybrid’s Predictive Efficient Drive (PED) analyzes the driver’s daily driving habits and upcoming road and traffic conditions to more efficiently charge and discharge the hybrid battery accordingly alongside actual driving.

The more the vehicle is driven, the more data is accumulated, contributing to practical fuel efficiency. Many actual roads chosen to represent common usage scenarios, such as in urban congestion or on mountain roads, were driven on and analyzed to create control that feels natural to the driver when operating to enable more efficient driving.

All-Wheel Drive Gets Smarter
The 2020 Highlander gets a grip on any road with a choice of front-wheel drive or three different available all-wheel drive systems — two for the V6 models and a unique AWD system for the Highlander Hybrid. For the Highlander Gas L, LE and XLE models, the optional AWD system can send up to 50 percent of available torque to the rear wheels to counter wheel slip when necessary.

Sounding like something from a high-end sports car, Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Drive Mode Select and Driveline Disconnect is available for the Highlander Limited and Platinum for even greater agility and capability. In addition to governing torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, this advanced system uses special couplings to actively manage torque distribution between the left and right rear wheels.

Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD doesn’t need wheel slippage before springing into action. Rather, a sophisticated AWD Integrated Management (AIM) system manages Electric Power Steering (EPS), throttle control, transmission shift control and drive torque distribution to continually optimize handling.

Using the Multi-Terrain Select control dial on the console, the driver can maximize traction when driving through inclement weather or road conditions. Mud & Sand mode works well for beach driving, while Rock & Dirt mode optimizes AWD traction for trails. The driver can monitor, in real time, torque allocation and slip control on the Multi-Information Display (MID).

In addition, Highlander models include the following features for optimal on-road and off-road performance and safety:

Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
Downhill Assist Control (DAC)

All-wheel drive is a great traction partner, but it’s not needed all the time, such as during steady highway cruising. In such situations, Rear Driveline Disconnect automatically disengages drive to the rear wheels and stops the propeller shaft’s rotation. As one might guess, that reduces the energy needed to propel the vehicle and therefore reduces fuel consumption. When AWD is needed, the system instantly re-engages, without the driver even noticing.

Hybrid AWD
As with the AWD system in the previous Highlander Hybrid, the 2020 model’s AWD employs a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed. Like the hybrid powertrain itself, the AWD works seamlessly and transparently.

The rear electric motor operates independently, with no mechanical connection between the transmission and the rear wheels. Preemptively distributing more driving force to the rear wheels, such as when accelerating, helps suppress front wheel slip during off-the-line starts. The system also enhances cornering agility by helping to reduce understeer. And, when venturing onto a trail, the increased rear-wheel torque helps move the Highlander hybrid confidently over rough or slippery surfaces.

A New Level of Comfort
From the L grade to the top-of-line Platinum, the 2020 Highlander offers its plushest accommodations ever. Designers took inspiration from luxury crafted interiors to create a more premium ambience. Details include softer padded surfaces and a more tailored look with stitching that continues from the door trim to the instrument panel. The dash integrates the multimedia and HVAC controls in an elegant and functional way.

The 2020 Highlander cabin offers improved functionality throughout, from a center console that offers available Qi wireless charging to plenty of storage spaces and USB charging ports. On Limited and Platinum grades, new ambient LED lighting sets a relaxing mood. Inset steering wheel controls are a modern luxury touch on all grades.

Highlanders have long been renowned for a quiet ride, and with the high-strength TNGA platform, Toyota pushes the bar even higher. Sound-damping and soundproofing materials have been optimized throughout the vehicle, with the takumi approach focusing particularly on minimizing noise in the frequencies that interfere with conversation. As an example, Limited and Platinum grades have adopted laminated front side window glass to further isolate the driver from outside noise.

The seating color palette enhances the sense of luxury permeating the 2020 Highlander. The L and LE grades offer comfortable woven cloth in Graphite or Black; the XLE offers embossed Softex^® artificial leather-trim in Harvest Beige, Graphite or Black, while the Limited offers those colors in perforated leather-trim. The top-of-line Platinum grade, the most luxurious Highlander ever offered, exclusively features embossed, perforated leather-trim in those three colors plus a luxuriously delicious brown called Glazed Caramel.

Multitalented Multimedia
However passengers listen to music and connect with their worlds, the 2020 Highlander is ready with the latest multimedia systems. All grades come standard with Apple Car Play^®, Android Auto, Alexa In-Car compatibility, Waze, SiriusXM^®, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

All Highlander models come equipped with Toyota Safety Connect with a one-year trial subscription.

LE and above grades offer Service and Remote Connectivity. A move up to XLE or Limited grade offers available Dynamic Navigation. A move up to Platinum grade offers standard Dynamic Navigation and the 12.3-inch screen.

The JBL^® Premium Audio System is standard for Limited and Platinum grades and rocks music of all genres with 1,200 watts of power playing through 11 speakers in nine locations. Clari-Fi^® technology breathes new life into compressed digital music formats, with the result like a mobile concert. The system will not, however, settle arguments over which music to play.

Exceptional Toyota Value, Naturally
Toyota’s typical outstanding value is clearly evident in the Highlander L grade, where the standard equipment list includes features that one might expect in an upgraded model:

Toyota Safety Sense 2.0
18-in. alloy wheels
3-zone automatic climate control
4.2-in. Multi-information Display (MID) in instrument panel
8-way power driver’s seat
Auto up/down for all power windows
Multimedia with 8-inch touchscreen display
Front seat reading lights and cargo area light.
LED headlamps and taillamps
Privacy glass on rear side, quarter and liftgate windows
Smart Key entry on front doors and back door
Auto LED headlamps with Auto High Beam

LE adds over L:

Power liftgate
Blind Spot Monitor
Additional multimedia capability
LED fog lamps
Leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob

XLE adds over LE:

10-way power driver’s seat
2^nd-row sun shades
4-way power front passenger seat
7-in. Multi-information display
Auto dimming rear-view mirror with garage door opener
Plated interior door handle
Heated front seats
LED fog lamps
Machined-face alloy wheels
Captain’s Chairs second row (standard)
Power tilt and slide moon roof
Roof rails
SofTex^®-trimmed seats and door trim

Limited adds over XLE:

120V 2^nd-row power outlet
20-in. Limited style alloy wheels
Ambient interior lighting
Cargo area cover
Driver’s seat memory
Hand’s-free power liftgate
Heated and ventilated front seats
“Highlander” projector puddle lamps
Perforated leather trimmed seats in Beige, Gray or Black
Metal door scuff plates
Projector beam headlamp with chrome bezels and separate, stylized DRLs
Wood interior trim
JBL^® Audio System as standard
Embedded navigation system
Laminated front side window glass
Premium Projector style headlamp

Platinum adds over Limited:

Segment-leading 12.3-in. Multimedia head unit
20-in Platinum style wheels
Adaptive, self-leveling headlamps
Additional leather seating color choice: Glazed Caramel
Digital display rear view mirror
Embossed, perforated leather trimmed seats
Head-up display
Heated 2^nd-row seats
Illuminated door scuff plates
Panoramic moonroof
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Birds eye camera

Safety at Its Core
The new TNGA-K platform forms the foundation for exemplary collision protection in the 2020 Toyota Highlander, while a suite of standard driver-assist technologies is designed to help prevent collisions, or to mitigate their impacts.

The 2020 Highlander is equipped with the second-generation of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 2.0). Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) are standard on LE grade and above. Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB) is available with clearance sonar on Limited and above.

The standard backup camera features projected path. A Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan, available on Limited and standard on Platinum, provides a live rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle.

The 2020 Highlander is equipped with eight airbags, including side curtain airbags for all three rows. Toyota’s Star Safety System includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

Priced for Value
No matter the grade, every Highlander offers something to suit varying lifestyles, whether it’s for a city exploration or a weekend trip to the countryside. With five gas models and five hybrid models, the 2020 Highlander arrives at dealerships with an option for everyone.

2020 Toyota Highlander MSRP Starting Prices*
	Gas FWD	Gas AWD	Hybrid FWD	Hybrid AWD
L	$34,600	$36,200	____	____
LE	$36,800	$38,400	$38,200	$39,800
XLE	$39,600	$41,200	$41,000	$42,600
Limited	$43,650	$45,600	$45,050	$47,000
Platinum	$46,850	$48,800	$48,250	$50,200

*MSRPs exclude the Delivery, Processing, and Handling (DPH) Fee of $1,120.

Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The HV battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferrable across ownership.

The 2020 Highlander also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage.

Contact:
Nicky Hamila
469-292-3596
[email protected]

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1056697/Toyota_Fourth_Generation_2020_Highlander.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/785813/TOYOTA_MEDIA_RELATIONS_LOGO.jpg

SOURCE Toyota

Nine Health Threats that Made Headlines in 2019: A CDC Review

December 18, 2019

Centers For Disease Control And Prevention

ATLANTA, Dec. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — From an outbreak of mysterious lung-injury deaths to America’s near loss of measles elimination status, the beginning of the end of the U.S. HIV epidemic to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), CDC worked around the clock – and around the globe – to protect Americans from domestic and global health threats in 2019.

Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest health issues that CDC tackled this year.

Responding to outbreaks and threats

Lung Injuries linked to E-Cigarette use, Vaping, (EVALI)
CDC continues investigating the outbreak of lung injury associated with the use of e-cigarette, or vaping, products, together with state and local health departments and federal partners, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

As of December 10, CDC reported 52 deaths and 2,409 cases of hospitalized EVALI by all 50 states, Washington D.C, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In a breakthrough, CDC laboratories detected vitamin E acetate in the lungs of EVALI patients – direct evidence suggesting that this sticky substance is present in many EVALI cases. Investigation into other possible causes continues.

In September, CDC activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to enhance the inter-agency response to the EVALI outbreak. EOC activation allowed the agency to increase its coordinated operational support for the response to meet the outbreak’s evolving challenges. CDC is providing assistance in epidemiology, disease surveillance, pathologic consultation, clinical guidance development, and communication.

Opioids
Drug overdoses continue to be a major problem across America. There were over 70,000 U.S. drug overdose deaths in 2017, the most recent year for which final data are available. Over two-thirds involved opioids, including heroin and synthetic opioids (such as illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fentanyl analogs). There have also been recent increases in overdose deaths involving cocaine (largely due to contamination with opioids) and methamphetamines and other psychostimulants with misuse potential (both with and without opioids).

The prescribing and dispensing of the overdose-reversing drug naloxone is a critical part of the public health response to the opioid overdose epidemic. Naloxone saves lives – but only if it’s readily available when an overdose occurs. Despite a huge increase in overall prescribing of naloxone, far too little is being dispensed, including in many rural areas of the country where the need is greatest. Moreover, too few doctors are prescribing naloxone to high-risk patients as recommended by CDC’s Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain.

As the drug overdose crisis evolves and becomes more complex, CDC is providing $301 million in new Overdose Data to Action funds to states and jurisdictions to align surveillance data with more targeted prevention efforts better. The funds, which will support the work of 47 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands, and 16 counties and cities, are part of the Department of Health and Human Services’ Five-point strategy to combat the opioid crisis.

Antibiotic (AR) and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
Antibiotic-resistant (AMR) bacteria and fungi cause more than 2.8 million infections and 35,000 deaths in the United States each year, according to a November 13 CDC report. These are sometimes referred to as antimicrobial-resistant germs.

On average, every 11 seconds someone in the United States gets an antibiotic-resistant (AR) infection – and every 15 minutes, someone dies. When Clostridioides difficile, a bacterium that is not typically resistant but can cause severe diarrhea resulting in death and is associated with antibiotic use, is added to these, the U.S. toll of all the threats exceeds 3 million infections and 48,000 deaths annually.

There were nearly twice as many annual deaths from AR infections as CDC originally reported in 2013. The update comes from previously unavailable data sources. Since then, prevention efforts have reduced deaths from AR infections by 18% overall and by nearly 30% in hospitals. Without continued vigilance, this progress may be challenged by the increasing burden of some infections.

This year, CDC highlighted the success of the yearlong AMR Challenge, an ambitious global initiative to combat the growing threat of AR. Launched in 2018, CDC obtained nearly 350 commitments from 33 countries, pharmaceutical and health insurance companies, food animal producers and purchasers, and medical professionals and healthcare systems to take specific actions to combat antibiotic resistance.

Foodborne Outbreaks
Throughout 2019, CDC investigated and resolved more than 75 outbreaks related to food or animal contact. Notable Salmonella outbreaks were linked to ground beef, raw turkey, pre-cut melons, and papayas. E. coli outbreaks were linked to flour, ground bison, and romaine lettuce. Additionally, there was the largest ever outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to backyard chickens, and an outbreak of drug-resistant Salmonella infections linked to pig-ear dog treats.

During any multistate foodborne disease outbreak, CDC serves as lead coordinator working in close coordination with public health partners to detect the outbreak, define its size and extent, and to identify the source. Public health officials investigate outbreaks to control them, so more people do not get sick in the outbreak, and to learn how to prevent similar outbreaks from happening in the future.

Pregnancy-Related Deaths
A recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) documented persistent racial and ethnic disparities in pregnancy-related deaths. American Indian, Alaska Native, and black women were two to three times as likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause as were white women.

According to a 2019 CDC Vital Signs report, 3 in 5 pregnancy-related deaths could have been prevented. Overall, heart disease and stroke cause more than 1 in 3 pregnancy-related deaths—other leading causes include infections and severe bleeding. The leading causes of death differ by time period throughout pregnancy and after delivery.

Ensuring quality care for mothers throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period can reduce preventable maternal deaths.

Disease Control and Elimination

HIV
Progress in HIV prevention has stalled. Gaps in HIV testing, treatment, and prevention hinder efforts to stop new infections. According to a 2019 Vital Signs report, about 8 in 10 new HIV infections in the U.S. in 2016 came from people not in HIV care. Data also suggest that fewer than 25% of the more than 1 million Americans who could benefit from a daily HIV-prevention pill are using it.

In February, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative. The plan aims to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030. CDC will play a key role in the proposed initiative, which will leverage critical scientific advances in HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and outbreak response by coordinating the highly successful programs, resources, and infrastructure of many HHS agencies and offices.

Ending the HIV Epidemic aims to achieve maximum impact by first focusing efforts on 48 counties and 7 states; Washington, D.C.; and San Juan, Puerto Rico – where half of HIV diagnoses occur annually – as well as on seven states with a substantial rural HIV burden.

In 2019, HHS, through CDC, awarded $16.5 million to state and local health departments to begin building the foundation for Ending the HIV Epidemic and setting the United States on a path for success.

Measles
This year, there were more U.S. measles cases than in any of the last 25 years. As of December 5, CDC reported 1,276 cases of measles in 31 states for 2019. This is the largest number of cases reported in the U.S. since 1992 (963 cases).

The U.S. maintained its measles elimination status of nearly 20 years after a nearly year-long outbreak in New York City and New York State ended in the fall. The high number of cases in 2019 was primarily the result of a few large outbreaks – one in Washington State and two large outbreaks in New York that started in late 2018, all of them among close, tight-knit communities. Despite high nationwide coverage with the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, there are still communities where low vaccination rates leave people vulnerable to these dangerous diseases.

Immunization and Vaccination
According to a 2019 CDC Vital Signs report, nearly two-thirds of pregnant women in the United States have not received the two vaccines recommended during pregnancy for influenza and whooping cough (pertussis). Low rates of vaccination during pregnancy leave expecting moms and babies unprotected and at high risk for hospitalization and even death.

To date, influenza activity for the 2019-2020 season in the United States remains low. Receiving a seasonal influenza vaccine each year remains the best way to prevent seasonal flu. CDC recommends annual influenza vaccination for everyone 6 months and older with any licensed, influenza vaccine that is appropriate for the recipient’s age and health status. In addition to keeping you from getting sick with flu, the vaccine has other benefits including being life-saving for children, protecting pregnant women and their babies, and reducing the risk of a heart attack in people with heart disease.

A recent study published in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report revealed that an estimated 92% of cancers caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) could be prevented by the HPV vaccine. CDC recommends that all preteens get the multi-dose HPV vaccine when they are 11 or 12 years old – before they are ever exposed to the virus. However, according to the 2018 National Immunization Survey Teen, only 51% of all teens received all recommended doses of the HPV vaccine.

Domestic Preparedness and Global Health Security

Ebola
As the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues, the number of Ebola cases has reached 3,313 and more than 2,204 deaths. To rapidly identify cases and prevent further spread of Ebola, CDC continues to work with the U.S. embassy in DRC to rapidly respond to “hotspots” where the security situation is permissible. CDC also continues to closely coordinate with partners across the Department of Health and Human Services on continuing efforts to fight this outbreak.

In June, CDC activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to support the coordinated inter-agency response to the outbreak in eastern DRC. As of December 13, 2019, CDC staff have conducted 573 deployments to the DRC, neighboring countries, and WHO headquarters. CDC has permanent staff in the three high-risk countries bordering the outbreak (South Sudan, Rwanda, Uganda), including staff in DRC.

DRC has more than 300 graduates of CDC’s Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program who are playing a central role in this public health response.

2020: Looking Ahead

As 2020 approaches, CDC remains vigilant to combat these and other urgent threats. Health threats can arise at any time – at home or abroad – and CDC’s most important mission is always to protect the health of the American public from the unexpected.

To learn more about the work of CDC visit CDC.gov

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
CDC works 24/7 protecting America’s health, safety and security. Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are curable or preventable, chronic or acute, or from human activity or deliberate attack, CDC responds to America’s most pressing health threats. CDC is headquartered in Atlanta and has experts located throughout the United States and the world.

To unsubscribe from this CDC media listserv, please reply to [email protected] with the email address you would like removed.

Contact: CDC Media Relations
(404) 639-3286

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SOURCE Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the New Trendy Gift for This Holiday Season in the US

December 18, 2019

Olive Oils make a tasty gift for this Christmas

MADRID, Dec. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Olive oil makes a perfect gift for the holiday season thanks to its gastronomic versatility, optimum quality and health benefits. The holidays are a magnificent time to enjoy the combination of sensations, aromas, textures, colors and flavors of this unique food.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8664851-virgin-olive-oils-gift-holiday-season/.

In addition, there are a lot of reasons to give extra virgin olive oil as a gift:

It is a versatile product for lovers of gastronomy and healthy eating.
It is especially environmentally friendly: The olive grove prevents erosion and captures huge amounts of carbon dioxide, favoring the fixation of greenhouse gases in the soil.
We can find an almost infinite variety of aromas and flavors that also have presentations that do not detract from the most exclusive perfumes. Packaging and content form a whole that invite the consumer to enjoy its quality and an experience that is, no doubt, special and different.
Gift health, flavor and memories, because every time they use it, they will think of you

Gifting the most important ingredient of the Mediterranean diet is an upward trend, especially among those who bet on a healthy diet. We have to remember that there is evidence that using two tablespoons of olive oil in our dishes to replace the same amount of saturated fat can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease thanks to its high oleic acid content. Spain, for example, is currently the country with the best quality of life in the world, and by 2030 it will also be the one with the highest life expectancy, according to the latest Bloomberg index. The report reinforces evidence that a healthy Mediterranean diet, based on products such as olive oil, can help with longer life expectancy, together with other overall health and environmental factors.

Olive Oils from Spain is the promotional brand of the Spanish Olive Oil Interprofessional, a non-profit organization formed by all the representative associations of the Spanish olive oil sector, and whose main objective is the dissemination of the healthy product at an international level. With the support of the European Union, it has launched the “Olive Oil World Tour” promotional initiative that urges consumers to join the European way of life (Join the European Healthy Lifestyle with Olive Oils from Spain).

oliveoilworldtour.com
https://www.instagram.com/oliveoilworldtourus
https://www.facebook.com/OliveOilWorldTourus

Video – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1056898/Olive_Oils_Santa.mp4
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1056897/Olive_Oils_Christmas.jpg

Contacts:
Gines Mena: [email protected]
Oscar Westermeyer: [email protected]
Phone: +34-91-506-28-60

SOURCE Olive Oils from Spain

Arrest Of Jose Daniel Ferrer Points To Repression Of Cuban Spring

December 18, 2019

Protesters call for the release of Jose Daniel Ferrer

HAVANA, Dec. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The following is from the promoters of Cuba Decide:

It has been more than 75 days since Jose Daniel Ferrer, founder of the Patriotic Union of Cuba (UNPACU) and a leading promoter of the Cuba Decide movement, was arbitrarily detained on Oct. 1, 2019. He was taken captive by the Cuban regime and is still being held prisoner under torture. It has been almost a month since anyone has seen Ferrer. The regime fabricated criminal charges against him, which is a tactic they use to quell dissent and avoid international condemnation for holding political prisoners. The treatment in Cuban prisons is of such a harsh nature, where victims report the administration of narcotics and the provision of rotten food, that Ferrer had to start a hunger strike in order to protect his life. As the United States Department of State declares it, this is a “flagrant violation of human rights.” The European Parliament has also condemned the arbitrary detention of Ferrer.

This particular seizure is part of a wave of escalated repression going on in Cuba right now. Those pleading for freedom and democracy on the island are getting louder, and the Cuban government fears and retaliates against this behavior.

Others are imprisoned alongside Ferrer and it will be a matter of time before they face similar conditions and treatment. Activists such as Roilan Zarraga Ferrer, José Pupo Chaveco, and Fernando González Vaillant are among those currently held captive, and it is important the world know their names so that it is not just one person falling victim to the Cuban regime, but all those who are fighting for freedom.

A Brief History of Cuban Regime Oppression

The Cuban regime has had a strong hand in backing, and in many cases, helping to install puppet governments around Latin America, including places like Venezuela and Bolivia. Bolivians however, have recently spoken and taken down the fraudulent presidency of Evo Morales, marches in Venezuela are demanding the removal of Maduro, and inside Cuba, people are also demanding their voice back. Ferrer is one of these.

The Cuban regime, however, has perfected the silencing of its people through tactics of fear and repression. Ferrer has been a voice for democracy on the island and has experienced these tactics before.

In 2003, Ferrer was imprisoned for eight years during what came to be known as the Black Spring, when the regime swept in and imprisoned 75 dissidents, among them 29 journalists and 49 leaders of the Varela Project, a preceding Democracy movement led by Oswaldo Payá in Cuba that gathered more than 35,000 signatures for a Democratic change in Cuba.

Ferrer referred to his nearly decade long imprisonment as one of “constant terrors.” Oswaldo Paya’s daughter, Rosa Maria Payá, an activist in her own right and founder of Cuba Decide – a platform that currently seeks freedom for Cuba and the right for Cubans to pen their own democracy through a vote – spoke to Ferrer in the months before his October imprisonment.

“My understanding from our conversations”, said Rosa Maria Payá “was that he was feeling the government tightening around him and our platform as they had during the Black Spring“. Payá asked the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) to intervene before the Cuban regime and resume the Precautionary Measure granted 7 years ago for the protection of Ferrer from government harassment. The IACHR responded by urging the Cuban government to guarantee the life of Ferrer.

When Ferrer’s family was allowed to see him in prison, it was clear he had been beaten. His wife, Nelva Ortega Tamayo, MD, states that he has lost some sight and also his voice due to torture, “He’s very, very grave, he’s in danger,” she said. The only way to release him and restore his voice, which the regime is currently cinching, is for the international community to take note and speak up.

The last time someone disappeared in Cuba for a month, it was Orlando Zapata Tamayo, an Amnesty International political prisoner of conscience, who was left to die in 2010 after fasting in prison for 80 days.

The government has not permitted any independent monitoring bodies to determine the prison conditions or the presence of torture or other cruel or inhumane punishment.

About Cuba Decide
We are a movement of 60+ dissident organizations with thousands of activists mobilizing the Cuban People to become agents of change, defy the regime’s succession plan, and exercise the right to choose a new democratic future.

Our tool to empower the Cuban People: Convene an independent, binding, and internationally-monitored plebiscite to invalidate the communist constitution and begin a transition to democracy. Together, we will take back our human rights and self-determination, and make Cuba a free and democratic society where all Cubans can thrive.

The Fundación para la Democracia Panamericana is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a lead supporter of Cuba Decide.

For more information, visit www.CubaDecide.org and join the conversation online using #CubaDecide and following @CubaDecide on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Join the #CubaDecide movement here and take action toward a free Cuba by contacting your representatives and asking them to support Senate Resolution 454.

Media Contact:
[email protected]
305-209-5649

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1056385/Cuba_Decide_protests.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1056038/Cuba_Decide_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Cuba Decide

StarKist® Launches Pop! Ad Icons: StarKist – Charlie the Tuna® Collectible with Funko

December 18, 2019

Pop! vinyl figurines of the renowned brand ambassador will be available for a limited time through Funko shop; to commemorate this exciting news, StarKist is making a donation to Feed the Children, a non-profit organization focused on alleviating childhood hunger

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — StarKist Co. has partnered with worldwide pop culture consumer products company Funko on a limited-edition Charlie the Tuna^® Pop! vinyl figure. Funko, known for their wide range of pop culture ad icons, will honor the famed brand mascot.

Today is Charlie’s official debut as a Funko Pop! Ad Icon, sold exclusively on https://shop.funko.com/ for $15.00. To commemorate this exciting news, StarKist is making a donation to Feed the Children, a global non-profit organization focused on alleviating childhood hunger, both in the U.S. and around the world.

“We are thrilled to offer fans of the world’s greatest spokes-fish the opportunity to purchase the Pop! Ad Icons,” said Andy Mecs, Vice President of Marketing & Innovation, StarKist Co. “Charlie the Tuna^® has been lending a fin to StarKist^®for 50+ years, so we are excited to celebrate his impact on pop culture through this release.”

“We’re excited to have Charlie join an esteemed list of Ad Icons that continue to delight fans of pop culture,” said Molly Hartney, Chief Marketing Officer at Funko. “During the holidays, it’s important to think about those in need and Funko commends StarKist on their commitment to Feed the Children.”

StarKist will also be hosting a Facebook sweepstakes, giving away fifteen Pop! Ad Icons: StarKist’s Charlie the Tuna^® to lucky fans. Follow @StarKistCharlie for more information. Official sweepstakes rules can be found at https://www.facebook.com/starkist/app/208195102528120/.

About StarKist Co.
StarKist Co. provides trusted, healthy, food products in the United States. An industry innovator, StarKist was the first brand to introduce StarKist single-serve pouch products, which include Tuna Creations^®, Salmon Creations^® and Chicken Creations^®. As America’s favorite tuna, StarKist represents a tradition of quality, consumer trust and a commitment to sustainability. StarKist’s charismatic brand icon, Charlie^® the Tuna, swam into the hearts of tuna fans in 1961 and is still a fan favorite today. StarKist Co. is a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Dongwon Industries Co., Ltd.

About Funko
Headquartered in Everett, Washington, Funko is a leading pop culture consumer products company. Funko designs, sources and distributes licensed pop culture products across multiple categories, including vinyl figures, action toys, board games, plush, apparel, housewares and accessories for consumers who seek tangible ways to connect with their favorite pop culture brands and characters. Learn more at https://funko.com/, and follow us on Twitter (@OriginalFunko) and Instagram (@OriginalFunko).

About Feed the Children
At Feed the Children, we feed hungry kids. We envision a world where no child goes to bed hungry. In the U.S. and internationally, we are dedicated to helping families and communities achieve stable lives and to reducing the need for help tomorrow, while providing food and resources to help them today. We distribute product donations from corporate donors to local community partners, we provide support for teachers and students, and we mobilize resources quickly to aid recovery efforts when natural disasters strike. Internationally, we manage child-focused community development programs in 10 countries. We welcome partnerships because we know our work would not be possible without collaborative relationships.

For more information, visit feedthechildren.org.

Media Contact:
Michelle Faist
412-323-7457
[email protected]

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1056327/Funko_Pop_Charlie_the_Tuna.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/950296/StarKist_Co_Logo.jpg

SOURCE StarKist Co.

Moore Bahamas Foundation Announces $300,000 in Grants for Hurricane Dorian Relief

December 18, 2019

NASSAU, Bahamas, Dec. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Moore Bahamas Foundation (“Moore Bahamas”) today announced $300,000 in new grants for Hurricane Dorian relief and recovery, part of $1 million in support pledged by conservation philanthropist Louis Bacon.

The new grants follow Moore Bahamas’ funding for emergency aid immediately after the hurricane and a post-hurricane needs assessment. The grants will help address continuing emergency needs and accelerate recovery of The Bahamas’ spectacular ecosystems and its economy.

“In the wake of Dorian’s destruction, our goal is to support families as they reconstruct the best possible future for themselves and their communities,” said Mr. Bacon, chairman of The Moore Charitable Foundation and Moore Bahamas, its local affiliate. “By supporting environmental restoration and humanitarian relief alike, Moore Bahamas hopes to help the people of Grand Bahama and Abaco get their lives and their economy back on track.”

Moore Bahamas is supporting organizations that are deploying recovery resources over the next year, including a partnership with the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) to conduct ecosystem damage assessments for the maritime and mangrove habitats of Grand Bahama and Abaco.

“The post-storm assessments funded by the Moore Bahamas Foundation will guide how and where to make the most impactful habitat restoration investments,” said Shelley Cant-Woodside, BNT’s Director of Science. “In addition to fueling The Bahamas’ tourism economy, healthy ecosystems play a crucial role in buffering our communities against the effects of future storms.”

A list of grantees is below. A complete list of the 2019 grants made by Moore Bahamas is available here.

Bahamas National Trust (BNT)

Bahamas Reef Environmental Education Foundation (BREEF)

Friends of the Environment in Abaco (Friends)

GiveDirectly

Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Foundation (GBDRF)

International Medical Corps (IMC)

Paradise Fund

Ranfurly Home for Children

Waterkeepers Bahamas

Waves For Water (W4W)

About The Moore Bahamas Foundation
The Moore Bahamas Foundation, the Bahamas affiliate of The Moore Charitable Foundation, founded by Louis Bacon in 1992, supports organizations committed to marine conservation, working with partners including Waterkeepers Bahamas; The Cape Eleuthera Institute; The Nature Conservancy Caribbean Program – Bahamas; The Bahamas National Trust, and Oceans 5. Learn more about the Moore Charitable Foundation at www.moorecharitable.org.

Follow: @MooreCharitable

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1056553/Louis_Bacon.jpg

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/975012/The_Moore_Bahamas_Foundation_Logo.jpg

SOURCE The Moore Bahamas Foundation

José A. Pilsón’s New Book 6 Pasos Para El Perdón: Salud Emocional, A Spiritual Narrative That Delves Into The Essence Of Forgiveness In A Person’s Life

December 18, 2019

ANAHEIM, California, Dec. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The book 6 Pasos para el Perdón: Salud Emocional was created by José A. Pilsón. José A. Pilsón is an author who is an expert in the areas of personal growth, couple problems, conflict resolution, addiction management and soul health. He is pastor, founder and president of the administrative board of the Christian Mission Church.

José A. Pilsón said this about his book: “Who knows by the Holy Scriptures what it is to forgive, and in practice forgives, knows the benefits that the forgiver achieves in every sense of the word.”

The author of this very interesting literary work, Dr. José Antonio Pilsón, is a skilled pastor for over thirty-five years; He has been successfully venturing into the ministry of ministerial counseling and marriage partners for over thirty years; but also, he is a doctor in Clinical Psychology. In this work, our writer shows clear evidence that he placed in the hands of the Lord his experiences, his gifts, his experiences and his good secular preparation, so that this precious literary work could be born.

Published by Page Publishing, José A. Pilsón’s new book 6 Pasos para el Perdón: Salud Emocional will enrich readers with insights on forgiveness and how it transforms lives toward self-healing and purposefulness.

Consumers who wish to understand the scriptural significance of absolution in human life can purchase 6 Pasos para el Perdón: Salud Emocional 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 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/1044837/Jose_A_Pilsons_New_Book.jpg

SOURCE Page Publishing

Alianza Legal Warns Hispanic/Latino Community

December 17, 2019

Alianza Legal - Trusted Spanish Personal Injury Law Firm

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 17, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Alianza Legal, a reputable Spanish Personal Injury Law Firm, warns the Hispanic/Latino community that auto insurance companies may be capitalizing on their business.

Roughly 39% of California’s population is Hispanic or Latino, per the United States Census Bureau’s 2018 statistics. It’s a rapidly growing demographic. California’s auto insurance companies were fast to target this market, but are they serving this community well? Research suggests that auto insurers may be financially benefitting by paying out on fewer claims or paying lower settlements to these customers, who may not fully understand the policies they purchase.

Any victim of a car accident is susceptible to being taken advantage of by insurance companies if they do not have legal representation, regardless of their fluency in English. Alianza Legal noticed a specific trend with their Spanish-speaking clients and would like to raise awareness within the community.

While potentially unethical, it’s to the insurer’s benefit to serve populations that speak English as a second language. Alianza Legal represents many Spanish-speaking clients for their car accident claims. Their experienced attorneys and case managers see first-hand how often insurers will try to give the run around to the Spanish community.

How Do Auto Insurance Companies Take Advantage of Hispanic/Latino Individuals?

Insurance is complicated. Even individuals with English as their first language can struggle to understand their own insurance policy without the advice of a licensed agent. Unfortunately, despite the vast number of customers who would benefit from Spanish translations for both verbal and written communication, not every insurance company has these options readily available at all times. A language barrier when dealing with insurance companies can lead to several issues:

Customers who cannot read (or have trouble reading) English cannot read their insurance policy, or research available alternative options.
They may rely on a family member to translate legal requirements or crucial policy details
Eager to make a sale, unethical insurance agents may omit key policy details. They can even lie outright, knowing the customer’s inability to understand the details of their policy.
It’s possible for agents to over-insure a vehicle, increasing the premium paid, to cash a bigger commission check.
Adjusters sometimes give “the run-around,” with a barrage of “legalese” to avoid paying a claim.
Adjusters are more likely to “low ball” a settlement, because they think the first low offer is likely to be accepted without too many questions.
Insurers know this market is less likely to approach a lawyer for assistance. Nor are they likely to file a complaint with California’s Department of Insurance, or consumer watchdog groups.

It’s Not a Race Issue, It’s a Location Issue

The Hispanic/Latino community of Los Angeles County resides mainly in East Los Angeles, Commerce, and Vernon. These areas are heavily populated. The increase in residency in the areas alone makes for more potential accidents. Additionally, roads may not be in great shape. Broken and damaged infrastructure contribute to a significant percentage of traffic accidents every year. Risk of accidents are quite high in these locations.

Insurers base their rates on “assumed risk.” Customers who present a higher risk are charged more for the same policy. While forbidden to charge based on their race or ethnicity, they can price according to location, age, and claims history. Therefore, they can charge higher rates in minority zip codes.

Alianza Legal Can Help

As a law firm that represents many Hispanic and Latino clients, Alianza Legal understands your struggles, and is here to help. Their mission is to provide outstanding legal services, regardless of race or fluency in English.

With multiple Spanish speaking staff members, they deal with the adjusters directly and alleviate the burden of dealing with insurance agents for their clients.

If you’re struggling with an auto accident or auto insurance claim, contact Alianza Legal today at 888-417-1086.

Contact:
Alianza Legal
888-417-1086
505 N. Brand Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91203

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1045056/Alianza_Legal_Full_01_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Alianza Legal

SBS To Undertake Recapitalization

December 17, 2019

MIAMI, Dec. 16, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. (the “Company” or “SBS”) (OTCQB: SBSAA) today announced that in connection with its planned recapitalization, SBS has received a letter from a recognized multinational financial services broadcast lender stating that it is highly confident of its ability to arrange secured debt financing for SBS in an amount of $300 million. The debt financing will carve out certain non-core real estate and broadcast station assets so that, in connection with the recapitalization, SBS will be positioned to obtain a separate and incremental first lien asset-based financing facility.

SBS intends to use the proceeds from the $300 million of debt financing plus the proceeds of the additional and incremental asset-based funding to repay its existing $249.9 million of 12.5% Senior Secured Notes and to make cash purchases of its existing Series B preferred stock.

“SBS has an established track-record as a leading Hispanic owner/operator of media, having consistently reported industry-leading growth in its ratings, revenues and margins during the last several years,” stated José I. Molina, Chief Financial Officer of SBS. “SBS expects to deliver a robust and certain return to our existing investors while repositioning SBS to continue its forward operating momentum. Following closing of the recapitalization transaction, we will continue serving our growing base of millions of Hispanics nationwide with today’s relevant news and entertainment programming, as well as the advertisers that target their dynamic purchasing power and expanding social, cultural and political influence. Likewise, we will implement our long-range strategic plans to create incremental value for our new investors.”

About Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. (SBS) owns and operates radio stations located in the top U.S. Hispanic markets of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Puerto Rico, airing the Tropical, Regional Mexican, Spanish Adult Contemporary, Top 40 and Urbano format genres, including the global leader in Hispanic radio, WSKQ-FM in New York City. SBS also operates AIRE Radio Networks, a national radio platform of over 275 affiliated stations reaching 95% of the U.S. Hispanic audience. SBS also owns MegaTV, a network television operation with over-the-air, cable and satellite distribution and affiliates throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico, produces a nationwide roster of live concerts and events, and owns a stable of digital properties, including La Musica, a mobile app providing Latino-themed audio and video streaming content and HitzMaker, a new-talent destination for aspiring artists. For more information, visit us online at www.spanishbroadcasting.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, which are included in accordance with the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause SBS’ actual results and performance in future periods to be materially different from any future results or performance suggested by the forward-looking statements in this press release. Although we believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from these expectations. “Forward-looking” statements, as such term is defined by the Securities Exchange Commission in its rules, regulations and releases, represent our expectations or beliefs, including, but not limited to, statements concerning our operations, economic performance, financial condition, our ability to obtain and consummate the financing transactions as well as consummate the recapitalization transaction described herein, growth and acquisition strategies, investments and future operational plans. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “forecast,” “seek,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “could,” “estimate,” “might,” “continue,” “seeking” or the negative or other variations thereof or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements, by their nature, involve substantial risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond our control, and actual results may differ materially depending on a variety of important factors, including, but not limited to, those identified in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018. All forward-looking statements made herein are qualified by these cautionary statements and risk factors and there can be no assurance that the actual results, events or developments referenced herein will occur or be realized. We undertake no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results.

Contacts:

Analysts and Investors

José I. Molina

Chief Financial Officer

(305) 441-6901

Analysts, Investors or Media

Brad Edwards

The Plunkett Group

(212) 739-6740

Legal

Brad Eric Scheler, Esq.

Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver &
Jacobson LLP

(212) 859-8019

SOURCE Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

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