2020 Honda CR-V: America’s Most Popular CUV Gets New U.S.-Built Hybrid-Electric Version, Standard Honda Sensing® and Freshened Styling

September 18, 2019

America’s best-selling crossover of the past two decades gets a major boost with the introduction of the 2020 Honda CR-V, sporting freshened styling, new features and upgraded powertrains--including a new CR-V Hybrid to be built in the company’s Greensburg, Indiana plant. The 2020 CR-V Hybrid is the first electrified SUV from the Honda brand in America.

DETROIT, Sept. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — America’s best-selling crossover of the past two decades gets a major boost with the introduction of the 2020 Honda CR-V, sporting freshened styling, new features and upgraded powertrains—including a new CR-V Hybrid to be built in the company’s Greensburg, Indiana plant¹. The 2020 CR-V Hybrid is the first electrified SUV from the Honda brand in America, joining the Accord Hybrid and Insight as the third electrified Honda manufactured in the U.S. as the company moves to apply its advanced two-motor hybrid-electric system to all of its core U.S. models in the years ahead.

In addition to the new hybrid-electric variant, major upgrades to the 2020 CR-V include bolder front and rear styling, re-designed wheels and standard Honda Sensing^® safety and driver-assistive technology (previously available only on EX and above trims). All non-hybrid 2020 CR-V models are now powered by the 1.5-liter VTEC™ Turbo engine, previously available only in EX and above trims. The 2020 CR-V will go on sale at Honda dealerships nationwide this fall, followed by the launch of the all-new CR-V Hybrid in early 2020.

Production of the CR-V Hybrid for the U.S. market will take place at Honda’s Greensburg, Indiana plant alongside CR-V and the Insight hybrid sedan. The company will invest $4.2 million and add 34 new jobs in the plant to support production of the CR-V Hybrid. Honda’s Russells Point, Ohio, plant will manufacture the CR-V Hybrid’s two-motor power unit, and the company’s Anna, Ohio, engine plant will produce its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine.

“The Honda CR-V is the best-selling CUV over the past two decades and the updates we’ve made to the 2020 model, including a new hybrid-electric variant, solidify its position as a leader in the compact SUV market,” said Henio Arcangeli, Jr., senior vice president of Automobile Sales at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The CR-V Hybrid also signifies our direction to bring Honda hybrid-electric technology to all core models and to invest in the production of electrified vehicles in America.”

Honda Electrification Initiative

Honda is targeting two-thirds of its global automobile sales to come from electrified vehicles by 2030. In North America, Honda is focusing on the expanded application of its advanced two-motor hybrid-electric technology as the most effective means to meet customer needs while realizing significant near-term gains in fuel efficiency and accompanying reductions in CO₂ emissions that contribute to global climate change.

U.S. sales of electrified Honda vehicles are on track for a third consecutive year of growth. For the first eight months of 2019, sales of Accord Hybrid, Insight and Clarity have reached 42,270 combined sales, propelling Honda electrified vehicle sales to year-over-year gains of 67.9 percent. In 2018, Honda set a new record of 49,914 electrified vehicle sales in the U.S., which were nearly double 2017 results.

Advanced Powertrains

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid promises substantially improved fuel efficiency while maintaining CR-V’s award-winning balance of interior space, driving dynamics and comfort that has made CR-V such a success with American buyers. The CR-V’s advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain, shared with the current Accord Hybrid, combines two electric motors with a 2.0-liter, 16-valve DOHC Atkinson cycle engine with greater than 40 percent thermal efficiency, the highest for any mass-produced Honda engine.

The CR-V’s two-motor system operates without the need for a conventional automatic transmission for smooth and seamless power delivery similar to a pure electric vehicle, and boasts a broad range of electric-only operation. The compact intelligent power unit (IPU), containing the hybrid battery pack and its control systems, is mounted under the cargo floor, allowing the new CR-V Hybrid to retain excellent cargo utility, including a 60/40 split rear seatback with a flat load floor. Peak total system horsepower is 212, up from 190 HP on the CR-V, along with an anticipated 50 percent increase in the EPA city fuel economy rating compared to the CR-V.

The CR-V Hybrid also marks the first application of all-wheel drive to Honda’s two-motor hybrid system in the U.S. When available traction is low, an electronic clutch activates, sending the appropriate level of power from the electric motor to the rear wheels. Detailed specifications on the new CR-V Hybrid, including EPA fuel economy ratings, will be provided closer to on-sale timing early in 2020.

Also for 2020, all non-hybrid CR-V models, including LX, are powered by the efficient 1.5-liter DOHC, direct-injected VTEC™ Turbo powerplant rated at 190 horsepower (SAE net), with responsive and refined performance across the engine’s full operating range. Available in front- or all-wheel drive configurations, power is transmitted through a smooth yet sporty continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda G-Shift control logic.

Sophisticated Interior and Exterior Styling

Exterior styling updates to the 2020 Honda CR-V result in a more upscale and rugged appearance. In front, broad openings for the fog lights are fully integrated into the bumper, giving the 2020 CR-V a more aggressive look, while the chrome grille is more pronounced. CR-V EX, EX-L and Touring trims get round LED fog lights, while CR-V Hybrid models in the same trims get distinctive bar-type fog lights with five LEDs.

CR-V Hybrid models will also get hybrid badging and a distinctive blue Honda logo in the center of the grille. In the rear, all CR-V trims feature sophisticated new dark-tinted taillights and a new dark chrome treatment for the garnish below the rear glass, better integrated with the more darkly tinted rear window. In addition to hybrid badges on the hatch, CR-V Hybrid Touring trims receive a unique rear bumper. CR-V Hybrid also has a hidden tailpipe, while non-hybrid CR-V Touring trims get new chrome exhaust finishers for a sporty appearance. All CR-V EX and EX-L trims, including Hybrid, get newly designed 18-inch wheels with a dark gray and machined finish, and Touring trims get a new, larger 19-inch wheel and tire (+1 inch).

Three new exterior colors are available for 2020: Sonic Gray Pearl and Radiant Red Metallic on standard and Hybrid models, and new Aegean Blue Metallic is available exclusively on non-hybrid models.

Inside, the new CR-V Hybrid is distinguished from non-hybrid models through its unique interior trim. Most apparent is the new push-button gear selector flanked by three switches for Econ, Sport or EV mode. Econ mode alters throttle inputs to help drivers maximize fuel efficiency, while Sport enhances throttle response for a more aggressive feel, with the engine sound enhanced by Active Sound Control for a sportier note. EV Mode allows the CR-V Hybrid to operate under electric-only power when the hybrid battery has a sufficient charge.

The instrument panel also is unique to CR-V Hybrid models, and features a display for power/charge status, as well as a driver-selectable display for power distribution and regeneration. CR-V Hybrid models also receive deceleration selector paddles on the steering wheel. By clicking the left paddle, drivers can increase the amount of regenerative braking from the hybrid system’s electric motor when decelerating.

All 2020 Honda CR-V models and trims benefit from a redesigned center console bin that is easier to use and offers more flexible storage options, and CR-V Touring trims now come standard with Qi-compatible wireless cell phone charging. Additional in-vehicle technology includes a color TFT driver-information interface (DII) center meter display, available 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio interface with Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto™ integration, and an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™. Also available are remote engine start, dual-zone climate control, an Electric Parking Brake (EPB), rear USB charging ports, front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment, driver’s seat with 8-way power adjustment and 4-way power lumbar support, and heated front seats. All CR-V models, including the hybrid model, continue to offer top-class interior space with legendary Honda versatility.

Advanced Safety and Driver-Assistive Technology

With the 2020 model year, all Honda CR-Vs now come standard with the Honda Sensing^® suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, including:

Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and pedestrian sensing capability
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow
Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS)

Additional driver-assistive technologies include the available blind spot information (BSI), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM) and Auto High Beam headlights.

CR-V Hybrid models benefit from a new Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) designed to increase awareness by pedestrians when travelling under electric-only power. A speaker mounted in the front bumper generates a distinct audible alert that varies in volume depending on vehicle speed and is easily noticeable to pedestrians, but nearly inaudible to the driver or passengers under most circumstances.

The 2020 Honda CR-V also incorporates Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, helping CR-V achieve the highest possible collision safety ratings, including an NCAP 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and targeting a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Chassis Technology

The 2020 Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid maintain the same agile and confident handling, greater refinement, additional ground clearance and superior overall versatility versus its competition. Its front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension use specially tuned low-friction dampers, with both FWD and AWD models including tubular front and solid rear stabilizer bars that promote responsive turn-in and flatter cornering. Dual-pinion, variable ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS) also contributes to the CR-V’s direct and satisfying steering feel. For CR-V Hybrid, an electronic servo brake pedal maintains a firm and linear brake feel like its non-hybrid sibling.

About CR-V

With U.S. retail sales of the Honda CR-V approaching 5 million units since its U.S. launch in 1997, the CR-V has been America’s best-selling crossover SUV over the past 22 years. The current-model, 5^th-generation CR-V is manufactured in plants in North America, in Marysville and East Liberty, Ohio; Greensburg, Indiana; and Ontario, Canada. Retail sales of CR-V this year tally more than 200-thousand units, putting CR-V on-pace for its seventh year in a row for sales of 300-thousand units or more.

About Honda

Honda offers a full line of reliable, fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive vehicles with advanced safety technologies sold through over 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. The Honda lineup includes the Fit, Civic, Insight, Accord and Clarity series passenger cars, along with the HR-V, CR-V, Passport and Pilot sport utility vehicles, the Ridgeline pickup and the Odyssey minivan.

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for more than 35 years and currently operates 19 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In the first half of 2019, nearly 90 percent of all Honda brand vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, while nearly two-thirds were manufactured in the U.S., using domestic and globally sourced parts.

For More Information

Additional media information including detailed pricing features and high-resolution photography of all 2020 Honda models is available at hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com. To join the Honda community on Facebook, visit facebook.com/honda.

¹Honda vehicles made in America are built using domestic and globally-sourced parts.

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SOURCE American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

The ANA’s AIMM Introduces the Cultural Insights Impact Measure™ (CIIM™) Proving that Cultural Relevance Drives Real Brand Results

September 18, 2019

ANA_AIMM_Cultural_Insights_Impact_Measure_Study

NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — A breakthrough new study that proves the incremental value of genuinely reflecting culture in marketing creative was unveiled today by The Association of National Advertisers’ (ANA) Alliance for Inclusive and Multicultural Marketing (AIMM). The Cultural Insights Impact Measure™ (CIIM^™) was developed by AIMM in partnership with NBCUniversal and AIMM member companies. CIIM^™evaluates advertising creative in various categories and identifies the impact and effectiveness of cultural insights in ads and programming on increased brand relevance, ad relevance, purchase intent lift, and loyalty.

“CIIM™ points at the role that cultural insights play in forming deep consumer-brand connections that lead to significant value creation,” said Carlos Santiago, Co-Founder, AIMM and President, Santiago Solutions Group, who led the study team. “Genuinely mirroring cultural values, in the eyes of consumers, boosts their recall, interest, net promoter scores and purchase intent. These findings present marketers with a paradigm shift as to how culture can optimize growth opportunities.”

Released today, initial findings from CIIM™ – which included a survey of 10,000 individuals across demographics including Hispanics, African-Americans, Asians, LGTBQ+, the Disabled community, and Non-Hispanic White – found that culturally-relevant ads are a key driver of brand affinity and purchase intent.

CIIM™ results revealed that consumers who perceive ads as culturally relevant, compared to those who do not, are:

1.5x more likely to learn more about the brand;
2.8x more likely to recommend the brand to others;
2.6x more likely to find the brand relevant to them;
3x more likely to find the ad relevant to them;
2.7x more likely to purchase a brand for the first time;
50% more likely to repurchase a brand they have bought in the past.

Bob Liodice, CEO, Association of National Advertisers, said, “ANA is extremely proud of AIMM and NBCU for the rollout of CIIM. One of the cornerstones of ANA’s growth mission is measurement. The utilization of CIIM provides marketers and the industry with a powerful measurement tool that will enhance culturally relevant creative to engineer incremental brand and business growth.”

“At NBCUniversal, we have always known the value of diversity and multicultural representation in advertising and media,” said Laura Molen, President, Advertising Sales and Partnerships, NBCUniversal. “While we hear from marketers in every industry that reaching diverse and multicultural audiences is critical, we partnered with AIMM to create CIIM™ to show the broader media and advertising community what we already experienced to be true: culturally-relevant creative and environment drive real brand results.”

Insights from CIIM™ will also fuel the launch of #SeeALL, a movement that will course-correct the issue of representation and illuminate growth opportunities for brands within multicultural segments. Together, CIIM™ and #SeeALL will prove not only that culture matters, but that cultural relevance and inclusivity are good for both society and for business.

“People are thirsty for culturally relevant content and we have an obligation as marketers to follow both the head and the heart – to drive growth in our businesses and bring America with us – that’s why AIMM is launching the #SeeALL movement within the marketing industry,” said Tony Rogers, Chair, AIMM, and Chief Member Officer, Sam’s Club.

“Inclusion and authentic cultural representation are the right thing for our country; the right thing for our businesses and the right thing for the marketing community,” said Michael Lacorazza, Founding Chair, AIMM, and Head of Integrated Marketing, Wells Fargo.

In the coming months, AIMM, in partnership with NBCUniversal, will release the full scope of the results across all consumer segments. To make the findings actionable for marketers, CIIM™ will also be developing a baseline, norms for industry, segments, and individual CIIM™ scores available for creative assets provided by advertisers. In 2020, the study will provide learnings on how culture impacts ROI. CIIM™ will serve as an actionable tool in guiding marketers, advertisers and the entertainment industry on how to best reflect, understand and respect all consumers in order to drive profit and growth.

About AIMM:
Founded in 2016 as an arm of the ANA, comprised of 87 member corporations, advertising agencies, media and research companies and trade associations representing over 1000 brands, AIMM’s mission is to elevate Multicultural and Inclusive marketing to promote business growth in an increasingly diverse marketplace. AIMM has proven to be one of the boldest industry reboots ever brought to the Multicultural marketplace, changing the way businesses drive growth. www.anaaimm.net

About NBCUniversal:
NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a division of Comcast Corporation.

ABOUT THE ANA
The ANA (Association of National Advertisers) makes a difference for individuals, brands, and the industry by driving growth, advancing the interests of marketers, and promoting and protecting the well-being of the marketing community. Founded in 1910, the ANA provides leadership that advances marketing excellence and shapes the future of the industry. The ANA’s membership includes more than 1,600 companies and organizations with 20,000 brands that engage almost 100,000 industry professionals and collectively spend or support more than $400 billion in marketing and advertising annually. The membership is comprised of more than 1,100 client-side marketers and nonprofit organizations as well as more than 700 marketing solutions provider members, which include leading marketing data science and technology suppliers, ad agencies, law firms, consultants, and vendors. Further enriching the ecosystem is the work of the nonprofit ANA Educational Foundation (AEF), which has the mission of enhancing the understanding of advertising and marketing within the academic and marketing communities.

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SOURCE ANA AIMM

Revolutionary Mini-Pitch Brings Soccer to Underserved Areas

September 18, 2019

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Girls and boys across the country, including thousands in underserved communities, will gain new access to Safe Places to Play over the next seven years thanks to a new and enhanced Mini-Pitch System™ designed for youth soccer.

These modular pitches – designed by the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Musco Lighting – are complete with lights to increase the number of hours kids and adults can use the space, benches to watch the play unfold, lockable storage for equipment, and include a comprehensive, long-term warranty to eliminate maintenance costs. Together, the mini-pitch system provides a compact but versatile unit that provides a fast, trouble-free installation, fits into urban environments or other areas where space is at a premium, and provides a safer place to play for kids and for the community to gather.

Although participation in youth sports is definitively associated with better health and academic achievement, more than 80 percent of children living in households making less than $25,000 miss out on the benefits of team sports. Furthermore, one in three Americans don’t have a park within a 10-minute walk from home, leaving too many kids without access to a soccer program or safe place for free play.

To address these barriers, the Foundation and its partners are creating 1,000 new mini-pitches nationwide by 2026 and working to offer youth development soccer programming at these sites at no cost to participants. In addition to providing access, the creation of mini-pitches has lasting community benefits: 98% of communities report that the people in their community are more active and 96% report the community feels safer with the addition of mini-pitch. Further, soccer mini-pitches serve as neighborhood gathering places for families, and nearly one-third of the kids who come to play on them are new to soccer.

“There just aren’t enough safe places for kids to play, especially in underserved communities,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation. “We’re creating these mini-pitches right in the neighborhoods where kids live and go to school, so they are easy for kids to access. The addition of lights to every mini-pitch, thanks to our partnership with Musco Lighting, will allow even more kids and families to play, especially in the darker, winter months. This means even more kids can benefit from all our game offers.”

“At the heart of the Foundation’s mission is empowering youth with confidence, teamwork, and life skills built through participation in soccer, and that’s a mission we believe in very strongly,” said Joe Crookham, President of Musco. “This mini-pitch system will improve our ability to expand these opportunities more efficiently to more communities that need them. We’re very proud to partner with the Foundation in this important endeavor.”

This model will be used for newly sourced U.S. Soccer Foundation mini-pitch projects. Over the past five years, the U.S. Soccer Foundation has created more than 200 mini-pitches nationwide, with 100 more to come in the next year. More than 15 of this new mini-pitch system are already in use in Cincinnati, OH; Columbus, OH; Dallas, TX; Manchester, NH; Newark, NJ; Oklahoma City, OK; Orlando, FL; and Phoenix, AZ.

Today’s announcement will be made at the grand opening of a new mini-pitch at Reynolds Middle School in the city of Fairview in metropolitan Portland. The mini-pitch was a gift from the W.J. Silverstein Family Trust and is the third mini-pitch that the Trust worked with the U.S. Soccer Foundation to create in the Portland area. Jake Silverstein, co-owner of MLS’s Houston Dynamo and NWSL’s Houston Dash, said, “We are so excited to witness the amazingly positive impact these Safe Places to Play are having across our communities. Playing soccer from a young age can be instrumental in fostering a lifetime of health and wellbeing.”

Musco Lighting is a national partner in the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s It’s Everyone’s Game movement, which is working to ensure that children living in underserved communities can enjoy the health and youth development benefits of the game. Other national partners include adidas, Major League Soccer, and Target. Each of these national partners has been critical to helping the Foundation increase access to the game and its benefits through the creation of mini-pitches.

To learn more about the Foundation’s work to make soccer everyone’s game, visit itseveryonesgame.org.

About the U.S. Soccer Foundation
The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s programs are the national model for sports-based youth development in underserved communities. Since its founding in 1994, the Foundation has established programs proven to help children embrace an active and healthy lifestyle while nurturing their personal growth beyond sports. Its cost-effective, high-impact initiatives offer safe environments where kids and communities thrive. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Soccer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. For more information visit www.ussoccerfoundation.org or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

About Musco Lighting

Since 1976, Musco has specialized in the design and manufacture of sports and large-area lighting with innovations in light quality, glare reduction, and light control responsible to the needs of facility owners, users, neighbors, and the night sky. Musco’s TLC for LED® system technology delivers a level of light control and uniformity that can’t be matched, and is the solution of choice for neighborhood fields, collegiate and professional stadiums and arenas, international speedways, and global events such as the Olympic Games. Musco backs its LED solutions with a long-term warranty covering parts and labor, eliminating maintenance concerns and costs for its customers.

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SOURCE The U.S. Soccer Foundation

The U.S. Minority Chamber Of Commerce Announces Its Premier Bi-Annual Security Conference; Our Mission Is To Protect The Americas Against Transnational Crime

September 18, 2019

MIAMI, Sept. 18, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — On September 23rd-24th the U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce (U.S. MCC) will launch its new Transnational The Americas Security Summit Miami 2019, “Cooperating Across Borders: Tackling Illicit Flows, Kidnapping and Extortion” at the wonderful Hotel Pullman located on 5800 Blue Lagoon Drive in Miami Dade County, Florida 33126. For more information: www.securityworld.vip

The event is not open to the public. The theme of the conference is: “Understanding the Global Agenda in Security and Preparedness for the U.S. private sector.”

The Miami Summit 2019 represents a major step forward in the fight against transnational organized crime and signifies the recognition of Members and partners of the U.S. MCC around our Nation of the seriousness of the problems posed by it, as well as the need to foster and enhance close international cooperation in order to tackle those problems. The magistral security conference will be attended by more than 100 high-profile and senior decision-makers as well as thought-leaders from around the region, including Mayors, Chiefs of Police, leading personalities of international and non-governmental organizations, high-ranking representatives in the industry and the civil society to engage in an intensive debate during the 2 days of the magistral activity.

The launch event will open with keynote speeches by invited guest speakers the Chief of Police of Panama, Jorge Miranda Molina, from Mexico the past Sub Secretary of Defense, Gral, Tomas Angele, from Peru, Gral, Wilson Barrantes Mendoza, the Police Department from City of Orlando, Chief Orlando Rolon and Chief of Police of Los Angeles, Sheriff Alex Villanueva, among others.

The U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce recognizes the importance of cooperation and sharing to ensure a more effective approach to combating the common threats faced by the countries of Latin America and the United States. The 2019 the America Security Summit Miami therefore aims to build on the existing relationship through focusing on:

Transform with innovation-building in Central America, Mexico, Panama and Colombia police forces, to mitigate security threats to/originating from the region against the interest of the private sector of the United States.
Fostering strengthened cooperation among the rural and vulnerable communities as well as with their police agencies, countries in the area of internal security, equipment, training and preparedness.
Partnerships and Cooperation result in a better understanding and more contacts approach to combat the common threats posed by the organized crime and terrorism using illegal immigration and other criminal activities like money laundering and cyber security.

“This premier edition provides the U.S. business community with a centralized commercial crime-fighting body with participation of security leaders in the region. It draws on the regional resources of its members in the fight against transnational crime on many fronts as a priority for the Chamber,” said Doug Mayorga, CEO of the U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce. “The world is rapidly evolving. Confronting high tech crime in the twenty-first century means understanding and addressing the impact of emerging technologies such as blockchain, as well as developments in artificial intelligence and machine learning as a key component to assist law enforcements in the region with the capacity of the private sector of the United States.”

About the World Security Summit Miami 2019: The premier edition is selecting spotlights of transnational illicit flows themes – from the trafficking of goods, arms, and people, to illicit financial flows – which endanger global security by funding conflicts and perpetuating instability in the region. The exclusive event focusing to illustrates regional and international security implications, impact and risk to the private sector of the United States, and provides ideas for cooperative solutions, building on ongoing efforts by many institutions across the region with intermediation of the U.S. MCC.

About the U.S. MCC: Founded in September 2000 and Headquarters in Washington DC, with global centers in in Los Angeles, Miami and Puerto Rico, is preparing a security conference in order to reach main compromise from actors in the international security sector to build public-private partnership – coalitions – not just across borders but also across sectors that include civil society and U.S. private enterprise to be localized in affected communities. More information: www.minoritychamber.net

U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce

The event will be broadcast most of our debates and disseminate the results of our events via reports, interviews, and social media.

For Interview and RSPV:
Maria Loaisiga
Senior Director- Public Affairs U.S. MCC
[email protected]
786-406-2190

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SOURCE Minority Chamber of Commerce

Robert Redford’s Sundance Catalog Opens New Retail Store in San Antonio, Texas

September 18, 2019

Lifestyle retailer located in Quarry Village will donate a portion of grand opening sales to San Anto Cultural Arts organization

SALT LAKE CITY, Sept. 17, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Sundance Catalog, a leading American aspirational lifestyle retailer of men’s and women’s apparel, jewelry, footwear, accessories and home furnishings, announces the opening of its newest retail location in San Antonio, Texas. The store, located at Quarry Village, will host its grand opening weekend celebration beginning on Thursday, September 19, 2019 with a ribbon cutting at 4:00 pm.

The Quarry Village store, located at 330 East Basse Road in San Antonio, is the third Sundance retail location to be opened in Texas. Sundance CEO Matey Erdos shares, “We are excited to be joining this vibrant community rich in culture and artistic expression. Sundance, casual, relaxed and artistic in its appeal, offers a unique platform for our artists and customer’s alike, making San Antonio a natural fit.”

“We take great pride in curating products that instill a sense of discovery and connection,” Erdos continues. “The San Antonio store will provide an emotional connection between our beautiful products, the artists and our loyal customers, often fueled by an authentic story our customers cherish and share with others. An experience to be enjoyed by all.”

Following the vision of Sundance Catalog founder, acclaimed actor, director, and visionary Robert Redford, the company holds a strong commitment to nurturing a diversity in artistic expression to the artist community. The Sundance Catalog will donate a portion of the proceeds from the grand opening weekend to the San Anto Cultural Arts organization.

Executive Director of San Anto Cultural Arts Ben Tremillo said, “As our organization seeks to build community, we look for partners that help strengthen our work and Sundance is an example of that collaborative partnership. We look forward to continued collaboration with the Sundance Catalog for years to come.”

The newest Sundance Store at Quarry Village is one of three new stores to open across the country by the end of the year. For the past 30 years, Sundance Catalog’s commitment to the spirit of creativity and individuality has served as a guiding principle for artists and designers to reach their creative vision, ultimately leading to the catalog’s commercial success.

About Sundance
Famed actor, environmentalist, director and visionary of independent filmmaking, Robert Redford founded Sundance Catalog in 1989 to promote the works of artists and craftspeople from across the country and around the world. From a small operation run out of the attic of the old Sundance Village firehouse, Sundance has grown to become one of America’s preeminent lifestyle retailers. Offering a thoughtfully curated mix of unique, premium-quality women’s and men’s apparel and footwear, jewelry, accessories, art and home décor, Sundance elevates the traditions of authentic American heritage into a classic and creative style.

Sundance Catalog is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah. The company’s unique product selection is available through its catalog, 15 retail stores throughout the US, including San Antonio and the Sundance Outlet, and online at www.sundancecatalog.com.

About San Anto Cultural Arts
The San Anto Cultural Arts organization, founded in 1993, has been fostering the human and community development of San Antonio, Texas, through their dynamic and community-based arts programs. It is through programs such as the Community Mural Program, the El Placazo Community Newspaper, and the After School Arts Program that they are able to both engage residents and foster the talents of youth by educating them on the history and techniques of public art, all the while documenting and preserving the rich history of San Antonio’s Westside. Visit www.sananto.org to learn more.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/555655/sundance_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Sundance Catalog

Toyota Injects $391 Million New Investment in Its San Antonio Assembly Plant

September 17, 2019

SAN ANTONIO, Sept. 17, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Through its commitment to build vehicles where they are sold, Toyota is investing $391 million at its San Antonio truck assembly plant to better serve customers. Once complete, the plant’s total investment will exceed $3 billion.

Today’s announcement comes as part of a broader commitment from Toyota to invest $13 billion in its U.S. operations over five years through 2021. This new investment also comes with a commitment by Toyota Texas to continue funding local workforce development, a community need the company has long championed.

As part of Toyota’s commitment to help San Antonio’s workforce and education, Alamo Promise will receive a $500,000 donation from Toyota Texas over a five-year period. Alamo Promise’s mission is to end poverty, enhance economic and social mobility and meet workforce demands throughout the city.

Separately, Aisin AW, a supplier to Toyota Texas and other automakers, announced that it will invest $400 million and bring 900 new jobs to a future facility in nearby Cibolo, TX.

“The Lone Star State continues to build on its reputation as a manufacturing powerhouse thanks to investments from innovative companies like Toyota and Aisin AW,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Their combined new investment of nearly $800 million in the San Antonio area is a testament to Texas’ unrivaled workforce and commitment to creating an environment where businesses can thrive free from the heavy hand of government regulation and over-taxation. I am grateful to Toyota and Aisin AW for bringing more jobs to the Lone Star State and I look forward to growing our already strong partnership.”

“We’ve been in the U.S. for more than 60 years, creating a tremendous value chain in this country and creating an extensive footprint in the Alamo City since 2003,” said Chris Reynolds, Toyota Motor North America chief administrative officer of manufacturing and corporate resources. “With 10 U.S. plants, 1,500-strong dealer network, an extensive supply chain and other operations, we directly and indirectly employ over 475,000 Americans and are committed to investing here.”

This new investment at Toyota Texas is in response to strong customer demand and will make the plant even more competitive in the long-term and more efficient while remaining flexible with multi-vehicle production capabilities by introducing various advanced manufacturing technologies.

“What a huge win for San Antonio. This is exactly the kind of project our city has strategically been preparing for—it shows we’re a competitive region ready for big investment from large manufacturers,” said San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “Toyota’s investment in our people and our city creates opportunity that can change the lives of an entire generation.”

“We’ve seen for nearly twenty years the kind of impact Toyota has had on our workforce. This latest investment shows the company’s commitment to our future,” added Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff. “In addition, Toyota along with Bexar County have partnered to develop TXFAME, an innovative program developing Advanced Manufacturing Technicians. Our workforce makes us competitive for big global manufacturers —we have what it takes to help them grow and prosper in South Central Texas.”

According to a study commissioned by the San Antonio Economic Development Foundation, total economic impact of these investments will surpass $10 billion with an employment multiplier of over 40,000 jobs over the next ten years for the region.

This is Toyota’s third investment at its San Antonio truck plant which assembles the full-size Tundra and mid-size Tacoma pickup trucks; the facility directly employs more than 3,200 team members. Including its 23 on-site suppliers, total employment at the plant’s site tops 7,200.

About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. and North America for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands. During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous value chain as our teams have contributed to world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 38 million cars and trucks in North America, where we have 14 manufacturing plants, 15 including our joint venture in Alabama (10 in the U.S.), and directly employ more than 47,000 people (over 36,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.) sold 2.8 million cars and trucks (2.4 million in the U.S.) in 2018.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.

Toyota Texas contact:
Melissa Sparks (210) 501-6038
Luisa Casso (210) 268-2732

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/997131/Toyota_San_Antonio_Assembly_Plant.jpg

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/439685/Toyota_Corp_Red_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Toyota Motor North America

(Español) USAGov en Español: su guía de información y servicios del Gobierno

September 17, 2019

4 formas de contactarse con el Gobierno en español.

Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

California Catholic Dioceses Announce New Compensation Program for Child Abuse Victims

September 17, 2019

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 16, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Starting today, individuals who were abused as minors by diocesan priests in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and the Dioceses of Fresno, Orange, Sacramento, San Bernardino and San Diego (the “Participating Dioceses”), may begin the process for filing claims with the California Independent Compensation Program (ICP).

Individuals who have previously notified the Dioceses of allegations of abuse will be sent ICP Claim packets; individuals who have not previously notified the Dioceses of allegations of abuse will be able to register with the program for an initial eligibility review. Eligible victims may file claims, regardless of when the abuse might have occurred.

The ICP is independent from Church control. Kenneth R. Feinberg and Camille S. Biros, nationally known compensation program administrators, have been working with the California Bishops since last November to design the program.

The program will be overseen by an Independent Oversight Committee (IOC) consisting of former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, former California Governor Gray Davis, and business leader and former Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Maria Contreras-Sweet.

Secretary Panetta said, “This important program is a necessary response to historic claims of child sexual abuse in the participating dioceses. Today, it is required that every new claim of abuse must be reported to law enforcement which will lead to the prosecution of those who have abused children. Although the ICP will zealously protect the privacy of any confidential information voluntarily provided by victims to the administrators, victims are free to discuss their history of abuse and their experience with this program. The administrators and IOC will periodically issue reports regarding the number of claims filed with the program and the amount of compensation provided to those victims. The purpose of the IOC is to oversee the effectiveness of the program and ensure that it is administered entirely independent of the Church. Our goal is to make sure that the public can have faith in the fairness and integrity of the ICP.”

Feinberg and Biros are administering similar compensation programs for child victims of abuse covering Catholic dioceses in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Colorado. The six Participating Dioceses comprise more than 10 million Catholics, about 80 percent of the state’s Catholic population.

Governor Gray Davis said: “As California’s Governor, I signed legislation giving victims of child sexual abuse more time to file legal claims. That legislation also revived claims that were previously barred by the statute of limitations. Victim-survivors of sexual abuse have already endured tremendous pain. For some, facing that anguish again in a public trial is a burden too heavy to shoulder. That is why I support this voluntary, private, and non-adversarial Independent Compensation Program as an alternative, regardless of when the abuse occurred.”

The ICP website can be found at www.CaliforniaDiocesesICP.com. The final Protocol and Frequently Asked Questions are available on the website.

This new program is voluntary. Child victim-survivors can elect to enter this program as an alternative to pursuing their claims against the Church in court.

Feinberg and Biros will have complete independence to determine the eligibility of individual claims and they alone will determine the amount of compensation offered to any victim. The Dioceses have agreed to abide by Feinberg and Biros’ decisions and the compensation determinations are not subject to appeal by the victim or the Dioceses.

The six Participating Dioceses will be contacting victims who have previously reported allegations of abuse to alert them to this new program. In addition, the program will invite others who may have been abused as minors, but have not previously reported the abuse, to come forward and register with the program.

This new program is open to a broader range of persons than are eligible to pursue claims in civil courts. Those minors harmed many years ago and barred from filing lawsuits because of civil statutes of limitations will be eligible to make claims under this new program. Also, because this program has no proof-of-citizenship requirement, undocumented persons who may have been abused as minors are also eligible to make claims.

Maria Contreras-Sweet said: “As a Catholic mother and long-time voice for the unheard, I take on this role with a deep sense of responsibility to assure the process is independent, compassionate and provides the abuse survivors and their families a meaningful step towards healing. There is nothing more precious than the lives of God’s innocent children. Their protection is our obligation. My hope is that this program, coupled with the other preventative initiatives the Church is taking, will bring about real change and a renewed confidence in our Catholic faith.”

Unlike civil litigation in the courts, this new program provides a process that is non-adversarial and protects victims’ privacy. Victim-survivors do not need to retain a lawyer to participate and there are no fees for participating. Compensation for fully completed and documented claims can usually be paid within 90 – 120 days.

Kenneth Feinberg said: “No amount of money will provide closure to victims. But the program is a small step in helping victims secure some degree of financial security. A claimant who for years, decades, may have been ignored, now has a program where that claim will be acknowledged and validated. Do not underestimate the importance of this.”

Secretary Panetta “encourages everyone to carefully read the attached ICP documents. They contain a clear commitment by the Administrators and the Independent Oversight Committee to provide victims/survivors with a dignified, confidential process to seek reconciliation and reparation for the suffering they have endured as a result of unspeakable crimes. We hope that everyone who has suffered will participate in the program. We can never erase the pain you have endured, but we can assist you in the ongoing process of healing and recovery. Our prayer is that this process can help provide some semblance of justice to the victims of crimes that for too long went unpunished.”

Program Highlights:

On September 16, 2019, the California Independent Compensation Program (“ICP”) will be implemented and will begin the process of distributing program materials and claim forms to individuals who were sexually abused as a minor by diocesan priests in the following California Dioceses: Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and the Dioceses of Fresno, Orange, Sacramento, San Bernardino and San Diego (the “Participating Dioceses”);
The Participating Dioceses serve 80% of California’s Catholic population. The Participating Dioceses will fund all compensation offers made by the ICP Administrators, but otherwise have no say in the amount of compensation offered to any victim, or in the operation or administration of the ICP. The ICP is entirely independent of Church control;
Nationally known Administrators Kenneth R. Feinberg and Camille S. Biros designed and will administer the ICP. An Independent Oversight Committee consisting of former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, former Governor Gray Davis and business leader and former Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Maria Contreras-Sweet will oversee the implementation and administration of the ICP;
Effective September 16, 2019, victim-survivors who were minors when abused, including undocumented immigrants, can begin the process to apply for compensation for such past abuse, regardless of when that abuse occurred; and,
Fully completed claims are usually determined within 90 days of a victim-survivor filing a claim.

The Independent Compensation Program Frequently Asked Questions and Program Protocols documents are available for download at the following link below:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/zfwrgggn4hbsdkl/AAA5WgqrzQjZPk8bv5Er6vTfa?dl=0

A recording of the Independent Compensation Program press conference will be available after September 16 for public viewing at the following link:
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-zQUvwTdpwPeCqRV8U3P_A

Media Contacts: Amy Weiss, 202-203-0448
[email protected]
(Spanish Language) – Christina Sanchez
(310) 420-1135, [email protected]

SOURCE California Catholic Dioceses

eMerge Americas Generated $1.3B In Cumulative Economic Impacts On The State Of Florida Since 2014

September 17, 2019

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

MIAMI, Sept. 17, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — eMerge Americas, a platform which fosters innovation and serves as a catalyst for transforming Miami into the tech hub of the Americas, had cumulative economic impacts of $1.368 billion in the State of Florida since its 2014 inception, according to a new economic impact study conducted by the Washington Economics Group, Inc. (WEG).

“The genesis of eMerge Americas spurred from a conviction to build a scalable tech ecosystem in South Florida, and I’m proud to say that we’re there,” said Manny Medina, Founder & Chairman of eMerge Americas. “We’re pleased to find that the study not only quantifies the region’s evolution as a formidable innovation hub, but also demonstrates how eMerge Americas has directly bolstered the regional and state economy.”

Additional noteworthy highlights of the comprehensive study on eMerge Americas include:

7,171 jobs supported, of which 68 percent are in the knowledge-intensive sector
$850 Million in contributions to Gross Domestic Product (Value-Added)
$174 Million in Federal, State and Local Fiscal Revenues have been generated

“The launch of eMerge Americas marked a significant milestone in the economic development history of Florida,” said Tony Villamil, nationally recognized business economist and Founder of the Washington Economics Group. “Florida’s economy is rapidly changing toward knowledge-intensive industries like technology and professional services. Since 2014, eMerge has grown to be a 365-day effort to help develop and brand South Florida as the technology leader of the Americas.”

To download the study executive summary, click here.

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.

About the Washington Economic Group, Inc. (WEG)

Founded in 1993 in the City of Coral Gables, The Washington Economics Group is a boutique economic consulting firm specializing in comprehensive economic solutions for businesses. WEG focuses on the specific business needs of our clients with the goal of understanding the objectives of each of our clients, while also becoming a member of their team. WEG engages a limited number of clients each year in order to ensure the best client experience within our premiere areas of specialization. WEG possesses expertise in the economies of Florida, the U.S., Latin America as well as the global economy and emerging markets. WEG is committed to delivering the most comprehensive and complete economic services to their clients and their businesses. We are proud to be active civic-minded members of the community. WEG Executives are members of local and national corporate and non-profit boards as well. For more information about WEG, please visit: www.weg.com.

Logo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/357556/eMERGE_2016_Logo.jpg

SOURCE eMerge Americas

New Video Sharing Platform Latinx21 Specifically For The Latinx Community to Launch On September 21, 2019

September 17, 2019

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 17, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Latinx21, a video sharing platform dedicated exclusively to celebrating and sharing the Latinx experience and culture, will launch on September 21, 2019. The platform, founded by Dinah Perez, will be the forum where the diverse Latinx community can be seen, heard, inspired, and entertained. Latinx21 aims to become the premiere network where bilingual, bicultural Latinx can engage online.

“Our Latinx community is in dire need of a space where they feel the freedom to express their identity,” said Dinah Perez, Founder and CEO of Latinx21. “We are a population that is large and growing, and that is digitally connected. We are 21 countries strong and it’s time we have a platform that is for and by us and that embraces our uniqueness.”

There are innovative features of Latinx21 that reflect Perez’s commitment to representation and equity. To help creators monetize their content, Latinx21 will include a “Tip Jar” where followers can make donations to help content creators raise money for their craft and launch their careers. Content creators will keep 100% of the money they raise. To further compensate video contributors, Perez will hold regular contests where viewers can vote for favorites with winners earning prize money. The contests will help broaden a video’s audience reach and exposure.

U.S. Hispanics account for more than half of U.S. population growth and wield a $1.7 trillion in purchasing power, a number that is set to rise in the coming years. According to Pew Hispanic, 87% of U.S.-born Hispanics own a smartphone and the majority of Latinx consumers stream video on either a smartphone or tablet. Latinx use the Internet not only to consume content but also to create a digital community of friends and family- the perfect climate for a video hub like Latinx21.

About Latinx21- Created by Dinah Perez, an entertainment lawyer of Cuban and Spanish descent, Latinx21 is an online destination that embraces all 21 Spanish-speaking countries by offering a platform to view and share Latinx-centric entertainment, information, and experiences.

Follow Latinx21 online on Instagram @Latinx21 and Facebook @Latinx21

For more information visit www.Latinx21.com

Contact: Maricela Cueva, [email protected]

SOURCE Latinx21

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