Vital to Viral Success: The Latinx Community Blends the Digital and Physical World, Defining the Future of Consumption

August 12, 2019

Nielsen’s latest Diverse Intelligence Series report pulls back the curtain on what piques Latinx consumers’ interest.

NEW YORK, Aug. 12, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — U.S. Hispanics’ unique ability to blend the physical and digital shopping experience, provides an opportunity for marketers in a variety of industries to reach them. And, because Latinx consumers are young, economically powerful and growing in population, these consumers represent a tremendous opportunity for growth. Nielsen’s latest Diverse Intelligence Series report, La Oportunidad Latinx: Cultural Currency and the Consumer Journey, dives deep into what drives U.S. Hispanic consumer’s purchasing habits. This year’s report showcases the many points of entry for marketers to reach the Latinx market. Nearly twice as many Latinx consumers will visit websites/apps on their smartphones as on a computer or tablet. By carrying their digital experience in their pocket, Latinx consumers often merge their digital and physical experiences, allowing brick-and-mortar retailers to make physical shopping more attractive to with a digitally augmented experience.

In addition to blending their digital and physical shopping experiences, U.S. Hispanics view their consumer journey as a community endeavor. For Latinx consumers, the most important purchase influencers are family, friends, and consumer reviews. Thirty-three percent of Latinx consumers agree with the statement “I prefer to buy things my friends or neighbors would approve of,” over-indexing by 20% versus the general population. Further, 79% shop for groceries with someone else, frequently with family members who participate in decision making.

“The Latinx path to purchase is social and circular, meaning recommendations of friends, family, and virtual networks play a preeminent role in product/service discovery, awareness and decision making,” said Stacie de Armas, Nielsen’s VP, Strategic Initiatives & Consumer Engagement. “The Latinx affinity for technology and specific media platforms can provide marketers with a look at what’s next through authentic engagement and outreach strategies.”

The report also showcases how Latinx buying power, which is expected to rise to $1.9 trillion in 2023, is increasing at a rate more than double non-Hispanic growth over the same period. With this knowledge, marketers must understand the largely bilingual and ambicultural nature of the Latinx community in order to market their brands in relevant ways that speak to the cultural push and pull of living 100% in more than one culture.

U.S. Census 2020 information shows when considering the U.S. Hispanic path to purchase, marketers must be very aware that Latinx consumers differ from the U.S. population as a whole in one primary way –they are the youngest ethnic or racial group in America. With a median age of 28 vs. 38 years of age in the general population, this highly influential demographic has grown up during the digital age and is swiftly approaching their peak earning years, accounting for 75% of all U.S. labor force growth over the last six years, impacting their overall multichannel path to purchase.

Nielsen uses census data to determine universe estimates (population estimates) in our U.S. panels and as a key benchmark for understanding consumers. Accurate census data has never been more important, due to the rapid diversification of the U.S. population. Nielsen knows the importance of being counted, which is why the company has proudly signed on to be a 2020 Census Official Partner and an active participant in ensuring that the 2020 Census is as accurate as possible.

“Nielsen’s 2020 Census partnership allows both the company and its clients to plan for growth and adapt to changing U.S. demographics,” said Lillian Rodríguez López, Co-chair of Nielsen’s Hispanic/Latinx Advisory Council. “The civic implications of an inaccurate count are well known. However, a census count that doesn’t adequately represent Latinx consumers–one of the primary future growth engines for the U.S. is the impact on businesses. Through Nielsen, Census measurement is the foundation for $90 billion in advertising transactions and powers decision-making by the country’s biggest retailers and manufacturers that influence more than $1 trillion.”

Key Report Insights include:

U.S. Hispanics are vital to commercial and viral success, uniquely combining the digital and physical shopping experience.

The highly social nature of the Latinx community and their love of technology and specific media channels can provide marketers with a fast track to making their product “go viral’ if those marketers seek insights and develop solid Latinx strategies.
57% of Hispanics enjoy wandering throughout the store looking for new and interesting products, which is 10% higher than the general population
Almost half (48%) of Hispanics find shopping to be a great way to relax, which is 15% higher than the general population.
Validating the social connection Latinx consumers have with shopping, the second most stated reason for visiting a social networking website by Latinx consumers is to receive exclusive offers, coupons, or other discounts (over-indexing by 22%).
With a big number of brick-and-mortar locations dwindling in many cities, connecting with Latinx consumers as a source of growth in the categories they are passionate about can be vital for the survival for brick-and-mortar retailers. Creating an authentic in-store experience could be a competitive advantage for brick-and-mortar retailers in the race against online purveyors.
Merging the physical and digital worlds, Latinx consumers are front-runners in digital coupon use, with text being reported as their number one way to receive coupons.

U.S. Hispanics have mastered the art of blending old and new, leading a new wave of culturally relevant trendsetters. The Latinx community keeps up with the latest trends by being constantly connected to their inner circles, asking for advice, recommendations, and approval from those who mean the most to them.

They are more likely than the general population to use social networking sites to find out about products and services, and they are also more likely to share their product/services experience on a social networking site. They, in fact, are likely to both offer and seek out recommendations.
Almost 40% of Hispanics state that their friends or neighbors seek advice from them before making a purchase, over-indexing the general population by 10%.
73% of U.S. Hispanics agree that it’s important for them that their children continue their family’s cultural traditions, and that their ethnic cultural heritage is an important part of who they are, which means that language, culture, and familial ties are a foundation in understanding the unique Latinx path to purchase.

As the youngest ethnic group in the country, U.S. Hispanics are coming of age in a digital world. They have strong opinions and are masters at making them heard in the social channels.

The U.S. Census projects that the Latino population in the United States will nearly double to 109 million in the 40 years between 2018 and 2058, a projected percentage change of 82% vs. only 9% over the same period for the non-Hispanic population.
Latinx consumers love navigating life with their mobile devices, as evidenced by the fact that 98% aged 2+ own a smartphone, versus 95% of the total U.S.
Unprecedented issues affecting the U.S. Latino community have risen in American politics in the last several years, having a proud effect on the American electorate. Latino voter turnout reached 11.7 million in 2018, up from 6.8 million in 2014 – the single largest increase on record from one midterm election to another.

About Nielsen’s Diverse Intelligence Series
In 2011, Nielsen launched the Diverse Intelligence Series, a robust portfolio of comprehensive reports which focuses solely on diverse consumers’ unique consumption and purchasing habits. The series has become an industry resource to help brands better understand and reach diverse customers. To learn more about Nielsen’s Diverse Intelligence research series, visit www.nielsen.com.

About Nielsen
Nielsen Holdings plc (NYSE: NLSN) is a global measurement and data analytics company that provides the most complete and trusted view available of consumers and markets worldwide. Our approach marries proprietary Nielsen data with other data sources to help clients around the world understand what’s happening now, what’s happening next, and how to best act on this knowledge. For more than 90 years, Nielsen has provided data and analytics based on scientific rigor and innovation, continually developing new ways to answer the most important questions facing the media, advertising, retail, and fast-moving consumer goods industries. An S&P 500 company, Nielsen has operations in over 100 countries, covering more than 90% of the world’s population. For more information, visit www.nielsen.com.

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SOURCE Nielsen

Nationwide Mortgage Bankers announces Americasa, its Spanish language mortgage platform

August 12, 2019

MELVILLE, New York, Aug. 12, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Nationwide Mortgage Bankers, an independent mortgage lender, has introduced its mortgage service that provides information regarding best homebuying practices to persons who speak Spanish.

This platform, Americasa, was created to educate the Latino community on the best mortgage options available to them. In the U.S. today, there is a lack of information related to mortgage borrowing available to Spanish speakers. NMB saw an opportunity to better serve Spanish-speaking person’s by developing a Spanish language resource for potential borrowers to fill this gap and provide educational resources surrounding the mortgage process.

According to a 2017 survey by the U.S. Census Bureau, 41 million people in the U.S. speak Spanish at home. This makes Spanish the second most common language spoken in the nation. Of this number, only 59.9% speak English “very well,” according to the same survey. This means that 40.1%, or over 16 million people, may have trouble reading information when it is written in English. Especially with the verbose language of the mortgage industry, there’s a clear need for materials that accommodate native Spanish speakers. That’s where Americasa comes in.

“I am very excited to announce the launch of Americasa (Americasa.com), formerly (AmericasaHomeLoans.com), for our Spanish speaking customers. We feel this market is highly underserved and look to be the go- to source for Spanish speaking organizations,” says Richard Steinberg, Founder and Chairman of the Board at NMB.

With increased accessibility of knowledge through NMB’s Americasa, Spanish language speakers can feel empowered to learn more about the mortgage lending process.

Media contact:
Toni Stanziale
[email protected]

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SOURCE Nationwide Mortgage Bankers

Goya Foods Donated 10,000 Pounds of Food to Catholic Charities of New York in Celebration of the National Dominican Day Parade of New York

August 9, 2019

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Goya Foods, the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the United States, donated 10,000 pounds of food to Catholic Charities of New York in celebration of the National Dominican Day Parade of New York on Wednesday, August 7, 2019, at the Mosaic Beacon School in the Bronx.

“For Goya, we have always believed that we have a social responsibility to support our communities and to give back to those less fortunate. To us, it’s not just about providing a monetary donation, but bringing people together to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to celebrate our heritage,” said Bob Unanue, President of Goya Foods and Board Member of Catholic Charities of New York.

Catholic Charities distributes more than 2.5 million pounds of food each year through their network of food pantries. The donation will go directly to Catholic Charities’ food pantries in the Bronx community, and provide 16,667 meals. “Once again Catholic Charities will benefit from the generous support of Goya, who have chosen to celebrate Dominican week by providing meals to New Yorkers in need. We continue to be grateful for their commitment and that of the Dominican Parade Committee leadership, to highlight, celebrate and provide for one of the many communities our agency is proud to serve,” said Beatriz Diaz Taveras, Executive Director of Catholic Charities Community Services.

The donation is part of Goya Gives, a global initiative committed to supporting local communities through social and environmental causes. Goya has donated millions of pounds of food to organizations worldwide and continues to support over 300 organizations, events and cultural institutions. “We are once again proud to partner with Goya and Catholic Charities to positively impact the community during our annual food distribution drive and to celebrate our culture and contributions at this year’s benefit gala and parade,” said Wilton Cedeño, Chair Board of Directors of the National Dominican Day Parade of New York.

Goya’s annual food donations also serve to encourage consumers to participate in the message and act of helping those in need. Consumers can share their acts of giving with the #GoyaGives through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @goyafoods

For more information about Goya Foods and the #GoyaGives campaign, please visit www.goya.com.

About GOYA: Founded in 1936, Goya Foods, Inc. is America’s largest Hispanic-owned food company, and has established itself as the leader in Latin American food and condiments. Goya manufactures, packages, and distributes over 2,500 high-quality food products from Spain, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America. Goya products have their roots in the culinary traditions of Hispanic communities around the world; Goya’s combination of authentic ingredients, robust seasonings, and convenient preparation make Goya products ideal for every taste and every table. For more information on Goya Foods, please visit www.goya.com

Press Contacts:
Natalie Maniscalco
[email protected]
845.659.6506

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SOURCE Goya Foods

Nine CDC health hacks for back-to-school success

August 8, 2019

Research shows healthy students are better learners

ATLANTA, Aug. 8, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — To have a great school year, kids need to stay healthy. Healthy students are better learners. CDC has tips and resources for parents and schools to help children and teens get fit and stay healthy whether they’re just starting kindergarten or heading off to high school.

“As a parent and grandparent, I know that back-to-school time is a busy time. Yet, I encourage parents and students to be mindful of some health essentials to add to your to-do lists,” said CDC Director Robert R. Redfield, M.D. “Getting a flu shot this fall, frequent hand-washing, and staying active all contribute to a healthier and more productive academic year.”

Wash your hands

Germs are everywhere. Touch a surface where germs are lurking, then touch your face, and you can get sick.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Handwashing with soap and water is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of colds, flu, and other diseases to others.

Parents, teachers, and informed students can teach proper handwashing so people don’t pass germs or illnesses to others. At school, it’s important for students to wash their hands before eating; after using the toilet; and after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing. Handwashing also helps keep students, their families, and school staff healthy so they don’t miss school or work.

Eat well and be active

Maintaining a healthy weight is especially important for children. Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. children have obesity, putting them at risk for asthma, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. Children with obesity also are more likely to suffer from social isolation, depression, and lower self-esteem.

Most children consume almost half of their calories at school. That makes school a great place to learn and practice healthy eating – a gift that keeps on giving for a lifetime. Check out this fact sheet for what parents and schools can do to encourage a healthy diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, grains, dairy, lean meats and oils in controlled portions with limited amounts of saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium.

Did you know that being physically active can help reduce anxiety and even help with a child’s focus in school? The time kids spend watching TV, playing video games, and surfing the web is time they could be physically active. Experts recommend children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day—before, during, and after school; running, walking, and playing sports all count!

Limit sugary drinks

While calories in drinks are not exactly hidden (they’re listed right on the Nutrition Facts label), many people don’t realize just how many calories are in the beverages they drink. Here’s the good news: Water is a great, no-calorie, low-cost substitute for sugary drinks. Drinking plenty of water every day is a great habit to establish for a lifetime.

Don’t use E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. youth. In 2018 more than 3.6 million young people – including 1 in 5 high-school students and 1 in 20 middle-school students – currently used (in the past 30 days) e-cigarettes.

The nicotine in e-cigarettes can harm the developing adolescent brain – specifically the areas of the brain that are responsible for learning, memory, and attention.

To prevent e-cigarette use by young people, parents and teachers can talk to their children and students about why e-cigarettes are harmful for them and walk the talk by being tobacco-free. School administrators can implement tobacco-free school policies that include e-cigarettes.

CDC has free resources, including fact sheets for parents and teachers and a presentation that teachers and coaches can use to help their students learn about the risks of e-cigarette use.

Stay cool

Schools are opening, but it’s still hot out there. Learn how to recognize, prevent, and treat heat-related illness. Remember these tips while participating in outdoor activities:

Schedule workouts and practices earlier or later in the day when the temperature is cooler.
Limit outdoor activity, especially during the middle of the day when the sun is hottest.
Pace activity. Start activities slow and pick up the pace gradually.
Wear and reapply sunscreen as indicated on the package.
Drink more water than usual, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more. Muscle cramping may be an early sign of heat-related illness.
Pair up: you monitor a teammate’s condition, and have someone do the same for you.
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

Visit CDC’s website for additional tips, including how to prevent heat-related illness in athletes.

Stay safe

Heads up! Any child can fall, knock his/her head, or get a concussion in any number of school settings ranging from school sports activities to the hallway, the playground, the cafeteria and beyond.

Being able to identify and respond to concussions early can help save a life. Visit CDC Heads Up for information on responding to concussions and supporting students when they return to school after a concussion.

Plan for emergencies

Plan ahead! As children head back to school, it’s important to have a written emergency care plan and to practice that plan as often as needed. The plan should include any medicines your child needs to take or any assistive devices used by your child, such as a motorized wheelchair or assistive communication device. Having conversations now with your child’s teacher about being prepared in an emergency can help reduce your concerns if an emergency does happen.

Connect with kids at school and home

“Adolescent connectedness” refers to children’s sense of belonging, of being cared for and supported by parents, teachers, and other important people. How connected children feel to school and family can have a strong influence on their lives that continues well into adulthood. Teens with higher levels of connectedness, are less likely to experience adverse health outcomes in adulthood, including:

Getting a sexually transmitted disease.
Misusing prescription drugs or engaging in illicit drug use.
Having been the victim of physical violence.

Visit CDC’s website to learn more about what schools, parents, and providers can do to promote adolescent connectedness, prevent suicide, and youth violence to reduce negative health outcomes.

Get vaccinated

From newborns to college students, getting vaccinated can help protect children and teens as they grow into adulthood. Making sure their children get vaccinated is one of the most important things parents can do to protect the health of their child.

Vaccinations also protect a child’s classmates, friends, relatives, and others in the community. On-time vaccination protects kids before they are exposed to highly contagious and life-threatening diseases like measles, whooping cough, and chickenpox.

One of the newest vaccines available can prevent cancer. Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, is a common virus that is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact and can lead to certain types of cancer later in life. Making sure your 11- to 12- year-old child gets two doses of the HPV vaccine can prevent these cancers.

CDC has online resources and tools to help parents keep their kids up to date on recommended vaccinations. Additionally, states may require children to get vaccinated against certain diseases before their first day of school. Visit the Immunization Action Coalition’s State Information for more information.

And if your child has missed any vaccinations, a healthcare provider can use the catch-up immunization schedule to get them back on track. Make sure your kids get their vaccinations before the back-to-school rush!

The bottom line: Student health is linked to academic achievement. Visit the Parents for Healthy Schools website for more information about how parents can play a powerful role in supporting their children’s learning and encouraging a healthy lifestyle for years to come.

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.

Contact: CDC Media Relations
(404) 639-3286

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SOURCE Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Sagrado Global opens a new academic proposal in Miami / Ft. Lauderdale and joins the list of Puerto Rican businesses expanding in the United States

August 8, 2019

MIAMI, Aug. 8, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The prestigious University of the Sagrado Corazón, of San Juan, Puerto Rico, began two years ago a process of academic and institutional transformation that meets the new challenges and academic trends, offering an innovative educational experience in which the classroom is the world.

It was during this time that Puerto Rico, home to more than 3.3 million American citizens, suffered from the terrible onslaught of Hurricane Maria, one of the most devastating natural disasters in the history of the United States. This tragedy brought new challenges for higher education institutions on the island. The material destruction and the scarcity of resources generated great mobility limitations and difficulties for access to educational facilities, emigration reached at least 8% and many students took the arduous task of attending and supporting in the reconstruction of their homes, limiting their educational time and priorities.

To meet this need, the University of the Sagrado Corazón developed a project adjusted to these variables and created an academic offer based on access to education remotely, but live, with the same quality and benefits offered in a classroom.

This is how Sagrado Global was developed, which is the School of Professional Studies of the University of the Sagrado Corazón, with a virtual platform in real time, called synchronous learning. This initiative was achieved thanks in part to the alliance with the Faculty Resource Network of New York University (NYU) and staff of the University of Cincinnati; and it is based on the latest trends in professional education and the labor market, which clearly reflects the mission and institutional vision of the Sagrado Corazón.

Sagrado Global allows students and professionals to take courses and certificates taught by professors from renowned universities in the United States and Puerto Rico through the video-presence modality through the Zoom platform where students can have a complete and live interaction with the teacher. The majority of courses are taught in Spanish.

With a view to expand beyond the island, Sagrado Global decides to expand to Miami, FL due to the great Hispanic diversity that exists in this city, as well as its links with Puerto Rico and Latin America. Sacred Global joins the list of numerous Puerto Rican businesses that have decided to expand to the United States in recent years.

“As a past government official, exposed to the multiple challenges of the public education system (both elementary and university level) and as a university professor in New York City in the last six (6) years, I have seen how education has evolved at a leaps and bounds in the world, with changes of approach, methodologies, curricula, disciplines and technology that were not even contemplated even 5 years ago. The use of artificial intelligence and interactive teaching methods are already, and will continue to be, a pillar of pedagogical improvement,” said Jorge Silva Puras, Director of Sagrado Global.

The Sagrado Global platform currently has more than 15 synchronous courses covering the disciplines of digital marketing, analytical data, graphic design, technology, health, photography, among others.

#EducandoAlMundoHispanohablante #InvierteEnTi

Contact:

Arminda Resto, Sr. Publicist
[email protected]
954-376-4800

SOURCE Sagrado Global

Colin Jones Honored in The Recorder’s Top Verdicts & Settlements 2019 Edition

August 8, 2019

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 8, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Wilshire Law Firm proudly congratulates Partner and Lead Trial Attorney Colin M. Jones, Esq. for his recovery of three verdicts and settlements each in excess of nearly $1,000,000 in 2018. First reported by The Recorder and recognized with other personal injury lawyers in the 2019 edition of Top Verdicts and Settlements in California, Mr. Jones recovered nearly $9,000,000 combined between the 5^th and 19^th largest settlements and the 36^th-largest California verdict of 2018.

A 2019 Super Lawyers Southern California Rising Star (a distinction he has received every year since 2015) and President-elect 2020 of The National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 under 40, Mr. Jones’ life-changing work has been widely-praised throughout the legal community for its excellence. A frequent keynote speaker at continuing legal education events, Colin has presented to a number of The National Trial Lawyers organizations on topics spanning voir dire, closing arguments, and everything in between.

Specializing in severe and catastrophic injury cases, Jones and Wilshire Law Firm utilize cutting-edge courtroom technology—including medical animations and accident reconstructions—to help our clients recover the maximum compensation they are entitled to. Over the course of his career, Mr. Jones has recovered more than $90,000,000 on behalf of his clients, results that speak for themselves.

Focusing on “aggressive and in-depth coverage of news, implications, and trends that help lawyers run their firms,” The Recorder is an essential source of news and a well-respected legal community publication. Published each year, The Recorder’s Top Verdicts and Settlements in California recognizes the highest grossing awards in categories such as motor vehicle, employment, wrongful death, and product liability.

Wilshire Law Firm | About the Firm
Founded in 2007 by Bobby Saadian, Esq., Wilshire Law Firm is an award-winning personal injury, employment law, and class action law firm. To date, our team of over 100 legal professionals has recovered more than $380,000,000 for our client family, providing exceptional service every step of the way.

To find out more about our firm, visit Wilshire Law Firm online: https://www.WilshireLawFirm.com

Instagram: @WilshireLawFirmPLC
Twitter: @WilshireLawFirm
Facebook: @WilshireLawFirm

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SOURCE Wilshire Law Firm

Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan Brings Community Art Therapy to South Los Angeles Youth

August 8, 2019

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 8, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — “Speak Life,” “Share Life,” and “Take Flight,” are some of the positive messages on a new colorful mural painted by South Los Angeles at-risk middle school and high school students and community artist Moses Ball.

The 8-week Blue Shield Promise Community Art Therapy program was held in collaboration with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles, Challengers Clubhouse and Wellnest (formerly Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic). The project helps local youth deal with everyday trauma they face by using their creativity to help design a mural based on their hopes and aspirations.

Each week, social workers and behavioral health specialists from Blue Shield Promise and Wellnest joined accomplished artist Ball who encouraged youth aged 11 to 17 to lend their creativity as they participated in the program. Art was used as a tool to help the program participants share their feelings and talk about difficult issues in a safe, nurturing space. As part of the program, a “Promise” theme mural was painted on the 20-foot by 60-foot wall outside the playground of the Boys and Girls Challengers Clubhouse.

The design is a brightly colored blue wall representing the faces of the children and showcasing their dreams about future occupations. For example, a young girl inspired by aviator Bessie Coleman is dressed like a pilot with an image of a plane taking flight behind her. Another shows a young girl rapper inspired by Nipsey Hussle’s music as well as his community work.

“The vision that inspired the mural is to repair the hurt from the challenges the youth face and in turn foster the dreams that still live inside them,” Ball said.

“It gives me great satisfaction to mentor youth both artistically and in life,” said Ball. “I hope to inspire the next generation to become Los Angeles muralists and beautify the community. With the support of Blue Shield Promise that provided resources and staff, I was able to focus on the artistic instruction and guidance of kids who played a key role in creating the mural.”

“It’s exciting to think that every time I come to the center, the mural gives me a sense of pride knowing that I helped paint it,” said Brailyn (12 years old), Boys & Girls Clubs Challenger Clubhouse member.

The mural is part of the Community Art Therapy Program, which includes guidance from trained behavioral health professionals. The goal is to help at-risk youth express their emotions in an invisible form, and assist them in building relationships with others. This program enables kids who are undergoing physical, emotional or mental crisis to increase their ability to explore, discover and interpret reality in a safe space.

“Blue Shield Promise is committed to investing in the communities where our members live to ensure they have every opportunity to have healthy and vibrant lives,” said Dr. Greg Buchert, President and CEO of Blue Shield Promise. “We are thrilled to have the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles and Wellnest joining our effort to create community programming like the youth art therapy that focuses on addressing the health needs of youth using art and engagement.”

“This was a great program for our youth because it provided them with an opportunity that they will be able to experience for years to come with the creating of this colorful new mural at the Challengers Club,” said Calvin Lyons, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles. “We’re delighted to work with Blue Shield Promise and Wellnest who understand the needs of healthy communities and offer their time and resources to boost children’s self-esteem and confidence through art therapy.”

Commenting on the power of art, Charlene Dimas-Peinado, President and CEO of Wellnest added, “We know that art can be used to engage, educate, express powerful emotions, and develop creative thinking and problem solving that can contribute to their future success. We are honored to be a partner on this program to give these young people those tools.”

About Blue Shield of California and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan
Blue Shield of California is a nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association with 6,800 employees, more than $20 billion in annual revenue and 4.3 million members. Founded in 1939 and headquartered in San Francisco, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health care service plans in California.

Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan is a managed care organization, wholly owned by Blue Shield of California, offering Medi-Cal, Cal MediConnect, Medicare Advantage HMO, and Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans. It is led by healthcare professionals with a “members-first” philosophy and committed to building a quality network of providers and partnering with community organizations for its nearly 500,000 members. For more information about Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan, please visit blueshieldca.com/promise.

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.
Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

About Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles
The mission of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. Committed to sustainable impact, BGCMLA consist of five sites and is the result of a partnership unifying Los Angeles’ Boys and Girls Clubs in the region’s most vulnerable neighborhoods since 1960 including Challengers, Watts/Willowbrook, Bell Gardens, Jordan Downs and Nickerson Gardens. BGCMLA offers nationally-recognized programs in three core areas to ensure the achievement and empowerment of youth and their families: Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship and Healthy Lifestyles.
For more information, please visit our website at www.bgcmla.org.

About Wellnest (formerly Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic)
Wellnest (formerly Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic) is a nationally acclaimed provider of holistic, research-informed, innovative mental health services for children and young adults in Los Angeles. It has assisted high-need families in historically underserved communities for 94 years through its mission to provide a holistic approach to emotional well-being, offering hope, healing and opportunity to the children, young adults, families, and communities we serve. Wellnest’s commitment remains steadfast as we enter our second century of service.

With an operating budget of $23 million, its highly-trained staff provides clients with a comprehensive array of services, including nationally recognized, trauma-informed, evidence-based practices. Wellnest’s programs are provided at four community-based centers, 34 school-based sites (7 charter), four onsite offices, co-location at a Federally Qualified Health Center, and directly to clients through field-based programming. Wellnest supports over 4,000 children, youth, and families annually as they reach their goals in school, build healthy relationships, and enjoy newfound emotional well-being.

CONTACT:	Mashi Nyssen
	Blue Shield of California
	323-827-6104
	[email protected]

SOURCE Blue Shield of California

FUD® & TAPATIO® Collaborate on New Products

August 8, 2019

FUD® y TAPATIO® colaboran en la creación de una nueva salchicha ahumada (PRNewsfoto/Sigma)

PHOENIX, Aug. 6, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — FUD (pronounced “food”), a Sigma brand, is pleased to announce an exciting new smoked sausage featuring the spicy flavor of Tapatío^® Hot Sauce.

The collaboration brings together two brands that truly understand Hispanic consumers and flavors.

FUD (which stands for Fine, Unique, and Delicious) meats and cheeses have been around for more than 60 years and have a dominant presence in the US Hispanic market.

Tapatío has made its hot sauce a staple on the tables of homes and restaurants alike for more than 40 years in the US.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Tapatío. We know consumers crave to personalize their food and, even more, to experiment with spice. Our collaboration will expand into products that will delight consumers with new flavor alternatives that will create more tasty moments to enjoy FUD and Tapatío together, surprising with pairings that many families have been doing at home,” said J.J. Tellez, Marketing Director for Sigma.

“We are pleased that the FUD brand has partnered with us in the meat category, they understand the market and are passionate about authentic flavors. Our loyal consumers will enjoy true Tapatío hot sauce in the convenience of products for everyday use,” said Luis Saavedra, Vice President, Tapatío.

The sausage comes in a 14 oz package with 6 links. To find a store that sells the product near you, go to https://fudusa.com/en/map/

About Sigma:

Sigma is a global food company dedicated to bringing local favorite foods to communities everywhere. With presence in 18 countries worldwide, Sigma offers quality food at a range of price points and across diverse categories. In the US, we market over 350 meat and dairy products under these brands: Bar-S, FUD, La Chona, Longmont, Playero, Del Prado, Menu del Sol, and Norteñita.

About Tapatío:

Tapatío Foods, LLC started in 1971 from humble beginnings. Over 40 years later Tapatío is still a family run business and has grown to become a staple not only in Hispanic households but in most American households today. It’s the #1 hot sauce in the West, and the #4 hot sauce in the country. Tapatío is a sauce that can be used with everything!

SOURCE Sigma

Oaxaca Hosts Historic “Vive Mezcal 2019” International Forum

August 8, 2019

"Vive Mezcal 2019" A Perfect Pairing of Culture and Commerce at International Forum In Oaxaca in September.

OAXACA, Mexico, Aug. 8, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The International Forum “Vive Mezcal 2019”, the most important and ambitious project to boost the production, distribution and sale of this spirit in the world, will take place from September 12 to 14, 2019, at the Cultural and of Convention Center of Oaxaca located in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico.

The three-day forum in the capital of the state of Oaxaca will bring together more than 12 thousand people between producers, entrepreneurs, investors, distributors and other attendees who will be able to experience the expo, museography, Master Mezcal Hall, Business Hub, workshops, cultural forum, Invest in Mezcal business meetings, more than 30 artistic and cultural activities, 12 Master Conferences, participation of more than 40 exhibitors and 150 producers of Mezcal, among other activities.

The Vive Mezcal organizing committee is headed by the Secretary of the Economy of the Government of Oaxaca, Lic. Juan Pablo Guzmán Cobián, who has promised that the forum will demonstrate the perfect pairing of culture and commerce and that it “will also take the drink to a new level to become a part of a select group of world-class spirits.”

The most ambitious resolutions are expected to emerge from this momentous event and take the production of the legendary drink known as “the elixir of the gods” to new heights.

Mezcal, of which 92 percent of its total production is generated in Oaxaca, in addition to gaining widespread popularity, has positioned itself as an attractive world-class beverage and has boosted export growth to 64 countries that now consume the artisanal spirit, often called liquid gold.

Mezcal, which means “cooked maguey” in Nahuatl, a Mexican beverage with centuries of cultural and social evolution, has positioned itself in a brilliant way showing exponential growth over the last six years with the number of exported brands increasing 195 percent and reaching countries including the USA, Spain, Germany, France and England among others.

With more than 300 brands and 150 mezcal producers participating, “Vive Mezcal” will be the first International Forum for innovation, business, culture and tradition, surrounding this beverage.

Registration for those interested in attending is free at: ViveMezcal2019.com

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958453/Vive_Mezcal_2019.jpg

SOURCE Vive Mezcal 2019

2020 Acura NSX Debuts Heritage Color – Indy Yellow Pearl at Monterey Car Week

August 8, 2019

2020 Acura NSX Debuts Indy Yellow Pearl Heritage Color at Monterey Car Week

TORRANCE, California, Aug. 8, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The 2020 Acura NSX will debut a striking new Indy Yellow Pearl paint scheme during Monterey Car Week. The 2020 Acura NSX will first be displayed at Concours on the Avenue in Downtown Carmel alongside an NSX GT3 Evo race car, featuring a custom designed livery with yellow and blue accents over the exposed carbon fiber body. The 2020 NSX is now available for ordering, with first customer deliveries to begin in November. The 2020 NSX carries a starting Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $157,500, not including delivery charges. For more information on ordering, visit Acura.com/NSX.

Indy Yellow Pearl pays homage to Spa Yellow, one of two yellow paints offered on the first generation NSX, and will join Berlina Black as an available heritage color for the 2020 model year. Spa Yellow, known as “Indy Yellow” in some markets, was applied to around 20-percent of NSXs produced between 1997 and 2003. For the final two years of NSX production (2004-2005), Spa Yellow was replaced by Rio Yellow.

Each NSX is handcrafted at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio¹ and continues the NSX tradition of offering an incredible performance value in the supercar market. The 2020 NSX is powered by an innovative Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® power unit consisting of a bespoke twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, 9-speed dual clutch transmission (9DCT), and three electric motors supplementing the engine with instantaneous electric torque. The second-generation NSX features an advanced, multi-material body and aluminum-intensive space frame, enabling ultra-high rigidity, compact packaging and outstanding collision safety performance.

NSX Insider Experience
All new NSX owners have the opportunity to join the NSX Insider Experience, a personalized program that enables NSX owners to participate in the making of their bespoke supercar. The program offers a curated, one-on-one tour of key facilities across Ohio where the NSX is built, including the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) and the NSX engine assembly room at the Anna Engine Plant. Guests also have the opportunity to track an NSX, guided by a professional driver on one of the primary proving grounds where it was developed and tuned – the Transportation Research Center (TRC).

The NSX Insider Experience is offered in six distinct packages with one and two-day tour options, which can be customized to include a tour of the Anna Engine Plant in addition to the tour of the PMC. Additional options include a two or four-hour performance driving experience as well as a tour of the Honda Heritage Center. Experience Packages start at $2,700. More information on the NSX Insider Experience is available at NSXInsiderExperience.com.

NSX GT3 Motorsports Success
Using the same Ohio-made multi-material space frame and 3.5-liter twin turbocharged engine design as the road-going NSX, the NSX GT3 and GT3 Evo have tackled some of the world’s most iconic GT races, including the 24 Hours of Daytona and Spa; the 12 Hours of Sebring; Petit Le Mans; and the FIA GT World Cup in Macau.

In the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship, the NSX GT3 Evos driven by Meyer Shank Racing have posted five wins and 11 podium finishes since its 2017 debut, and in the 2019 season, Meyer Shank Racing leads both the Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ Championships.

In the SRO GT World Challenge America series, the NSX GT3 has earned multiple wins as well, including six pro-am wins by three different teams this year in the new NSX GT3 Evo.

Around the world, the NSX GT3 driven by Autobacs Racing Team (ARTA) leads the GT300 class in the Japanese Super GT series with two podium finishes, and the NSX GT3 has also competed in Blancpain GT Series Asia, China GT Championship, select events in the Intercontinental GT Challenge, the Blancpain GT Sports Club and GT Series in Europe, and the ADAC GT Masters in Germany.

The race-winning, carbon fiber NSX GT3 Evo is offered for sale globally at a starting price of €465,000² (Approx. $525,000). Since becoming available for customer purchase in July 2017, and updated last year as the NSX GT3 Evo, there are currently 17 NSX GT3s in the hands of professional and amateur race teams globally, with the NSX GT3 Evo certified to compete in more than a dozen FIA-sanctioned racing series around the world. More information on the NSX GT3 Evo can be found at AcuraClientRacing.net.

Pricing and Features

			MSRPⁱⁱ
2020 Acura NSX			$157,500
Destination and Handling			$1,995
Exterior	Paint	Standard Colors (130R White, Curva Red, Berlina Black)	Std.
		Premium Colors (NEW: Indy Yellow Pearl, Thermal Orange Metallic, Source Silver, Casino White Pearl)	$1,000
		Andaro Colors (Valencia Red Pearl, Nouvelle Blue Pearl)	$6,000
	Wheels	Signature Y-Spoke Exclusive Interwoven	Std.
			$1,500
	Tires	Continental SportContact™ 6 Pirelli Trofeo R	Std.
			$1,500
	Brakes	Iron Rotors w/ Black Calipers Iron Rotors w/ Red Calipers Carbon Ceramic w/ Black Calipers Carbon Ceramic w/ Silver, Red, or Orange Calipers	Std.
			$700
			$9,900
			$10,600
	Gloss black exterior trim		Std.
	Black Aluminum Roof		Std.
	Gloss Carbon Fiber Roof		$6,000
	Gloss Carbon Fiber Decklid Spoiler		$3,000
	Gloss Carbon Fiber Exterior Sport Package		$12,600
Interior	Seating	Semi-Aniline Leather w/ Alcantara, 4-way power sport seats	Std.
		Milano Leather w/ Alcantara™, Manually adjustable sport seats	No Cost Option
		Semi-Aniline Full Leather, 4-way power sport seats	$1,000
	ELS Studio^® Audio + Tech Package · ELS Studio^® Premium Audio System · Acura Satellite Navigation · Proximity Sensors		Std.
	Aluminum Sport Pedals		Std.
	Carbon Fiber Interior Sport Package		$3,800

About Acura

Acura delivers Precision Crafted Performance – a commitment to evocative styling, high performance and innovative engineering, all built on a foundation of exceptional quality and reliability. The Acura lineup features six distinctive models – the RLX premium luxury sedan, the TLX performance luxury sedan, the ILX sport sedan, the five-passenger RDX luxury crossover SUV, the seven-passenger Acura MDX, America’s all-time best-selling three-row luxury SUV, and the next-generation, electrified NSX supercar.

Five of the six Acura models sold in North America are made in central Ohio, using domestic and globally-sourced parts, including the ILX and TLX luxury sports sedans (Marysville Auto Plant), the RDX and MDX luxury SUVs (East Liberty Auto Plant) and the Acura NSX supercar, which is built to order at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio.

Additional media information including pricing, features & specifications and high-resolution photography is available at AcuraNews.com. Consumer information is available at Acura.com. Follow Acura on social media at Acura.us/SocialChannels.

¹ Using domestic and globally sourced parts.
² Final USD currency conversion pricing established at contract signing; Ex Works JAS Ex Works JAS Motorsport Arluno MI, Italy

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958098/1__Indy_Yellow_Pearl.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958102/2___Indy_Yellow_Pearl.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958099/3___Indy_Yellow_Pearl.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958100/4___Indy_Yellow_Pearl.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958101/5___Indy_Yellow_Pearl.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/958103/6___Indy_Yellow_Pearl.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/458749/acura_logo.jpg

SOURCE Acura

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