California Aims to Scare “Ghost Tax Preparers” Out of Business

February 14, 2019

The California Tax Education Council targets ghost tax preparers with a new anonymous reporting system

SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 14, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — It is a problem that continues to haunt federal and state enforcement teams every tax season. Ghost tax preparers. They who set up a storefront during tax season, serve countless taxpayers and vanish right after the tax deadline.

“They are definitely good at disappearing, but not without a trace. We still have victims who can report them and that’s what we’re hoping for with our new reporting system,” said Susie DiMaggio, chair of the California Tax Education Council (CTEC), a state-mandated nonprofit organization that manages the registration of more than 40,000 unlicensed tax preparers.

Here’s how ghost tax preparers work. They print out tax returns for clients, tell them to sign and mail it out. What many taxpayers fail to notice is the tax return will not show the tax preparer’s signature. For electronically filed tax returns, their name is also left out. These tax returns are filed as “self prepared.”

“They can’t do that. Self prepared means the taxpayer did their own taxes instead paying someone else to do it for them,” DiMaggio said. “The law requires paid tax preparers to sign client tax returns.”

Other typical scams include…

Sticking a business label on the tax return instead of signing it by name. Clients get the “label” copy so it looks as though they signed it; however, a blank copy without a business label is filed.
Claim they “forgot” to sign the tax return and promise to sign it after payment is received.

“The other big problem is these tax returns are often full of bogus deductions and credits,” said Esperanza Escobedo, CRTP and CTEC board member. “Taxpayers may feel like they got their money’s worth by getting a big tax refund, but they end up paying for it later in audits, penalties and more taxes.”

A new reporting system only requires taxpayers to answer a few questions about ghost tax preparers. Personal information from the taxpayer is helpful, but not required. Taxpayers can submit reports at ctec.org. All reports go directly to the California Franchise Tax Board , the enforcement arm for CTEC.

California taxpayers should always verify the tax preparer is legally qualified. State law requires anyone who prepares tax returns for a fee to be either an attorney, certified public accountant (CPA), CTEC-registered tax preparer (CRTP) or enrolled agent (EA).

CTEC is a nonprofit organization that was established in 1997 by the California State Legislature to protect taxpayers against fraud and incompetent tax preparers.

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SOURCE California Tax Education Council

Princess Cruises Showcases Progress of Three New Royal-Class Ships Under Construction at Fincantieri Shipyard

February 14, 2019

Sky Princess Madrina and Princess Cruises 2nd Officer Ms. Kerry Ann Wright and Princess Cruises President Jan Swartz at special ceremony at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Feb. 14, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Princess Cruises, the world’s largest international premium cruise line, is growing and today major milestones for three ships under construction at the same time were celebrated, at Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

The three milestones included the introduction of the Sky Princess crew member who was nominated by her peers to serve as Madrina to celebrate the recent float out of the ship which will enter service in October 2019; the keel laying ceremony for Enchanted Princess launching June 2020 and the steel-cutting ceremony for the sixth and final Royal-Class ship, yet to be named, debuting 2022. With two additional ships on order for delivery in 2023 and 2025, Princess Cruises will increase its capacity by 32 percent over the next six years, adding to its current fleet of 17 ships.

“The number of people enjoying cruise vacations has increased on average more than one million new cruisers every year over the last decade, an overall increase of more than 68 percent,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises and Carnival Australia group president. “As we continue to grow our fleet with five new ships arriving by 2025, we’re proud to not only celebrate these three major construction milestones in the same day but also to continue to innovate our product with cutting-edge technology and elevated guest experiences that will be offered on all of these ships.”

Sky Princess is the first new ship to join the fleet activated with Princess MedallionClass™ Vacations enabled by the OceanMedallion, the vacation industry’s most advanced wearable technology delivering guests the enjoyment of hassle-free, personalized cruise vacations. Sky Princess will also feature MedallionNet, the best Wi-Fi at sea delivering land-like internet speeds for watching sports, movies or making video calls from a smart-phone.

In an industry-first event, three significant ship building construction milestones occurred in the same day, including:

Steel-Cutting Ceremony for the final Royal Class ship
The steel-cutting ceremony for the sixth and final Royal-class ship, was broadcast live to the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone from the builder’s yard in Naples, Italy. This ceremony marked the cutting of the first plates of steel to begin the building phase of the ship, which is scheduled to launch in 2022.

Enchanted Princess Keel Laying Ceremony
Princess Cruises and Fincantieri executives started the countdown to the launch of Enchanted Princess as the keel – the bottom-most part of the ship – was ceremoniously lowered into position in the dry dock. Following a traditional blessing, the ship’s keel – which weighs approximately 500 tons – was lifted then lowered into position by a huge crane onto the keel blocks. Representatives and invited guests participated in a traditional coin ceremony, and for this occasion, welding an OceanMedallion into the ship believed to bring good luck to the vessel and all who sail on her.

Sky Princess Madrina Celebration in Honor of the recent Sky Princess Float Out
Ms. Kerry Ann Wright, 2^nd officer for Princess Cruises, nominated by her fellow crew members will serve as the Madrina recognizing her “Reach for the Sky” story and the career she is forging in the cruise industry. Sky Princess is nearing the final construction and interior outfitting phase before joining the fleet in October 2019.

Swartz added, “We couldn’t think of better day to mark these milestones than on Valentine’s Day, a day when we typically celebrate romance and our co-starring role on ‘The Love Boat.’ While we’ll always be known for love on the high seas, today also solidifies our position as the fastest growing premium cruise line in the world.”

All three 143,700-ton Royal-class ships carry 3,660 guests and will include the best of the stunning features found on Royal Princess, Regal Princess and Majestic Princess, as well as new offerings that represent an evolution of the current ships’ designs.

Recently announced features to debut onboard Sky Princess, include:

Largest Balconies at Sea for guests in the Sky Suites accommodations, featuring the largest continuous private balconies ever offered by any cruise line. Measuring 1,012 square feet (starboard side Sky Suite) and 947 square feet (port side Sky Suite), the furnished balconies will provide a private vantage of the ship’s Movie Under the Stars screen and create the ultimate space for entertaining. The two suites will also offer 270-degree panorama views and have sleeping capacity for five guests, and more room for gathering — making them ideal for families.
Princess MedallionClass™ Vacations enabled by the OceanMedallion, this complimentary wearable device is the most advanced in the vacation industry. Delivering a hassle-free, personalized vacation giving guests more time to enjoy what they love most about cruising.
Award-winning entertainment offerings, including new jazz lounge Take Five, the popular Vista Lounge, an enhanced Princess Theatre, and new exclusive entertainment options.
World-class dining with more than 25 restaurants and bars onboard. From the World Fresh Marketplace to guest favorites like the Crown Grill Steakhouse and Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, offering the Northern Italian flavors of acclaimed chef, Angelo Auriana and La Mer, a French Bistro by Chef Emmanuel Renaut whose Flocons de Sel restaurant has received three Michelin stars.
Contemporary-designed Sanctuary with eight private cabanas – offering an adults-only area for rest and relaxation.
The Enclave at Lotus Spa. Sky Princess will include Princess’s largest thermal suite at sea – featuring a stunning hydrotherapy pool, heated stone beds, Turkish bath and dry, steam, and aromatherapy chambers.

Sky Princess is scheduled to launch in the Mediterranean in October 2019, before debuting in North America in December 2019 marked with the traditional naming ceremony before sailing a season of Caribbean cruises roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237), or by visiting the company’s website at princess.com.

About Princess Cruises
One of the best-known names in cruising, Princess Cruises is the fastest growing international premium cruise line and tour company operating a fleet of 17 modern cruise ships, carrying two million guests each year to 380 destinations around the globe, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica and World Cruises. A team of professional destination experts have curated 170 itineraries, ranging in length from three to 111 days and Princess Cruises is continuously recognized as “Best Cruise Line for Itineraries.”

In 2017 Princess Cruises, with parent company Carnival Corporation, introduced MedallionClass Vacations enabled by the OceanMedallion, the vacation industry’s most advanced wearable device, provided free to each guest sailing on a MedallionClass ship. The award-winning innovation offers the fastest way to a hassle-free, personalized vacation giving guests more time to do the things they love most. MedallionClass Vacations will be activated on five ships by the end of 2019. An activation plan will continue across the global fleet in 2020 and beyond.

Princess Cruises continues its multi-year, “Come Back New Promise” – a $450 million-dollar product innovation and cruise ship renovation campaign that will continue to enhance the line’s onboard guest experience. These enhancements result in more moments of awe, lifetime memories and meaningful stories for guests to share from their cruise vacation. The product innovations include partnerships with award-winning Chef Curtis Stone; engaging entertainment inspired shows with Broadway-legend Stephen Schwartz; immersive activities for the whole family from Discovery and Animal Planet that include exclusive shore excursions to onboard activities; the ultimate sleep at sea with the award-winning Princess Luxury Bed and more.

Three new Royal-class ships are currently on order with the next new ship under construction, Sky Princess, scheduled for delivery in October 2019, followed by Enchanted Princess in June 2020. Princess previously announced that two new (LNG) ships which will be the largest ships in the Princess fleet, accommodating approximately 4,300 guests are planned for delivery in 2023 and 2025. Princess now has five ships arriving over the next six years between 2019 and 2025, increasing fleet capacity 32 percent. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Newsroom:
Additional media information is available at princess.com/news.

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SOURCE Princess Cruises

Second Edition of International NASH Day Announced Under a New Coalition Leadership

February 14, 2019

WASHINGTON, Feb. 13, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — International NASH Day, a public education campaign launched by The NASH Education Program in June 2018 to raise visibility and urgency around fatty liver disease and its more advanced form, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) which affect more than 115 million people around the world, will be led by a consortium of patient advocacy organizations medical and professional societies, spearheaded by the Global Liver Institute.

Originally established and led by The NASH Education Program, a Genfit initiative, to address a now widely recognized gap in educational resources for physicians and patients on this growing public health epidemic, International NASH Day coordinated over 50 events from liver health screenings, policy briefings, and education events online and in more than 25 cities across the globe on and around June 12, 2018. “After the large success of the first International NASH Day, which has had a real impact on different stages across the world, we have been looking for the best global partners to take over and grow this initiative,” says Pascaline Clerc, US campaign manager for The NASH Education Program. “We are thrilled to see dedicated community-driven leadership taking over the initiative who can count on Genfit’s and the NASH Education Program’s support. It is our mission to promote awareness and education on this silent and widespread disease, and we will continue to do so by encouraging the initiatives undertaken by the new consortium, further reinforcing our commitment to better serve patients’ needs.”

The newly formed consortium will collaborate on strategic direction for the International NASH Day efforts, with the Global Liver Institute providing day-to-day management of the Consortium. Significant expansions of the consortium as well as the Scientific and Corporate Advisory groups are anticipated.

Global Liver Institute CEO Donna Cryer, a liver transplant recipient, explains, “Fatty liver disease and NASH are impending public health epidemics that have gone virtually unrecognized and untreated, leading to unnecessary patient and family suffering and death. We are grateful that International NASH Day was started, and feel confident that under the leadership of the global liver advocacy community this initiative will continue to grow into a high-profile, high-impact movement sustained by the public, policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and patients around the world.”

In 2019, International NASH Awareness Day will be held again on June 12^th.

For more information contact [email protected].

About International NASH Day

International NASH Day is dedicated to increase awareness about non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH, toward various populations: general public, patients at risk, medical community, public health authorities, medias and much more. To learn more, visit https://www.international-nash-day.com/

About The NASH Education Program™

The non-profit NASH Education Program™ defines and drives initiatives in collaboration with an independent scientific committee composed of four international key opinion leaders in the hepatic and metabolic disease ecosystems in the U.S. and Europe. To learn more, visit www.the-nash-education-program.com.

About GLI

The Global Liver Institute is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt not-for-profit organization, headquartered in Washington, D.C., United States. GLI’s vision is for liver health to take its place on the global public health agenda commensurate with its prevalence and impact. GLI’s mission is to improve the impact of the liver community by promoting innovation, collaboration, and scaling optimal approaches to eradicating liver diseases.

For more information, visit www.GlobalLiver.org, Follow us on Twitter @GlobalLiver or Facebook at www.facebook.com/GlobalLiver.

Contact:

The NASH Education Program™, [email protected]

Global Liver Institute, [email protected]

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SOURCE The NASH Education Program and Global Liver Institute

Rodan + Fields Introduces SPOTLESS, a Groundbreaking Acne Solution, and Expands into the Teen Market

February 14, 2019

Rodan & Fields announces the launch of SPOTLESS, a patent-pending teen and young adult acne solution, as well as an update to its UNBLEMISH Regimen, designed to address adult acne, as well as the visible signs of aging, with new formulas that feature Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid.

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 14, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Rodan & Fields, LLC (Rodan + Fields), a prestige, dermatology-inspired skincare brand, and the #1 skincare brand in North America,¹ announces the launch of SPOTLESS, a patent-pending teen and young adult acne solution. Stanford-trained dermatologists Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields, who transformed at-home solutions for millions with their first acne success, are leveraging their 25-plus years of experience to revolutionize the category once again. With SPOTLESS, Rodan + Fields will offer a solution to treat acne, a debilitating dermatological condition and the #1 skin condition in the US, which impacts 85 percent of teens and young adults.²

SPOTLESS features a BPO₂ Technology that leverages Benzoyl Peroxide in a groundbreaking new way. Rodan + Fields has developed an innovative liquid form of Benzoyl Peroxide – an industry first – to get through the skin’s stubborn biofilms, helping to bring the microbiome inside the pores back to balance and effectively combat the entire acne cycle. A two-step system, SPOTLESS delivers visible results from Day 1 and makes it easy for teens to be compliant and achieve even better results over time.

“As practicing dermatologists, product developers and women, we understand the emotional, physical and scientific aspects of acne,” said Dr. Katie Rodan, Co-Founder of Rodan + Fields. “Working side-by-side with our team of scientists and innovators we’ve pioneered many skincare firsts, and we’re thrilled to have discovered a game-changing way to treat acne for teens,” said Dr. Kathy Fields, Co-Founder of Rodan + Fields.

Rodan + Fields recognizes the impact acne has on people of all ages – including the 40 percent of adults who experience acne³ – and knows adult skin requires a different approach than teen skin. With that in mind, the company has updated its UNBLEMISH Regimen, designed to address adult acne, as well as the visible signs of aging, with new formulas that feature Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid.

“With our Founders’ unique perspective and expertise, we believe these formulas will be a breakthrough in the category and give the overwhelming majority of consumers who experience acne an easy, at-home solution,” said Diane Dietz, President and CEO of Rodan + Fields. “We are just scratching the surface of the $124B global skincare category⁴ and launching SPOTLESS provides a significant opportunity to reach a new set of customers.”

The SPOTLESS and UNBLEMISH Regimens are available through Rodan + Fields Independent Consultants who power the company’s unique consumer-connected commerce model, and at rodanandfields.com.

About Rodan + Fields
Rodan + Fields was launched in 2002 and founded by dermatologists Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields with the mission of giving consumers the best skin of their lives. The brand is a result of the doctors’ belief that healthy skin empowers people to feel confident. Born in the digital era and designed to directly reach consumers where they live and shop via mobile and social networks, Rodan + Fields is disrupting the industry with its regimen-based skincare and powerful Independent Consultant community.

____________________________________
¹ Source: Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2018 Edition, retail value RSP terms; all channels, Skin Care includes Sets and Kits; North America defined as Canada and the United States

² Source: Bhate K, Williams HC. Epidemiology of acne vulgaris. The British journal of dermatology 2013;168:474-85

³ Source: Goulden V, et al. Prevalence of facial acne in adults. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1999 Oct;41(4):577-80

⁴ Source: Euromonitor International, Beauty & Personal Care 2018 Edition

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SOURCE Rodan + Fields

United Way of King County CEO Jon Fine, a catalyst for improving community conditions, announces retirement after 18 years of service and raising $1.8 billion in community investments

February 14, 2019

SEATTLE, Feb. 14, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — United Way of King County CEO Jon Fine will retire after transitioning his responsibilities to a successor, to be identified by the Board of Directors in an extensive local and nationwide search. The search committee will be chaired by board member and Key Bank Pacific Region Executive and Market President, Carol Nelson.

Fine, who assumed leadership of United Way in 2000 after a successful career in finance, is credited for transforming a broad based organization which funded a wide range of social and human service issues into a metrics driven funder focused on creating a community where people have homes, students graduate and families are financially stable.

“The hallmark of Jon’s tenure has been a laser focus on accountability and results,” said United Way Board Chair Brian McAndrews. “You see it in the success of the programs that United Way administers, like Jobs Connect, which connected 2,200 people experiencing homelessness to jobs last year, or the Parent-Child Home Program that helps 1,300 families annually make sure their kids are ready to learn when they enter Kindergarten.” McAndrews, former Pandora and aQuantive CEO and digital media veteran, credits Fine with building an organization that creates effective programs and leverages relationships and government funding to truly have a long term impact on our region.

“I will forever treasure the opportunity I have had to partner with such outstanding volunteers, donors, staff, agencies and businesses to do such interesting and meaningful work,” said Jon Fine. “Over the years we have helped an enormous number of people in need, and I’m proud of our ability to bring the resources when and where they are needed most.”

Fine’s transformation of United Way of King County goes beyond effective programs. With traditional charity giving models such as workplace changing, the Seattle United Way is focused on engaging individual donor groups that care about tackling tough issues, like Emerging Leaders, a group of more than 9,000 young professionals in their 20’s and 30’s.

Jon Fine will leave United Way of King County with a solid footing for the future, a strong staff and a road map for the national United Way system to adapt to the changing fundraising landscape.

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SOURCE United Way of King County

From the Heart of Europe, Olive Oils From Spain Offer the Perfect Gourmet Gift This Valentine’s Day

February 14, 2019

MADRID, Feb. 14, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Valentine’s Day is a time where seeking the most original gift can prove to be difficult. However, the rise in popularity of gifting quality food products, makes Olive Oil an ideal choice.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8497551-olive-oils-spain-gourmet-gift-valentines/

Increasingly, consumers value superior and healthy foods that help them feel better about themselves – natural products that benefit the body, lifestyle and demonstrate a respect for nature. These are gifts that have a value beyond taste and versatility with health-giving benefits that show love and respect for those whom they are gifted to.

Olive oil is the King of the Mediterranean Diet. As a product that is appreciated all over the world, it passes the test of the most demanding palates. There is a direct relationship between olive oil and the kitchen, but it is not so common to gift this product. Here are a few reasons why it makes the perfect gift this Valentine’s Day:

It is a unique gift that promotes a healthy lifestyle, since virgin olive oil brings multiple benefits to our health; reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases since it is very rich in oleic acid. Also, it is a perfect excuse to organize special evenings with this delicacy
The market has become sophisticated, and offers cases and bottles of exclusive, experimental, daring and unusual designs that make olive oil the ideal choice to surprise loved ones
This is the perfect option for lovers of the kitchen and for the followers of the popular “foodie” trend, because with the different varieties of EVOO you can create a variety of dishes and satisfy all the palates…
Compared with other gourmet products the price of olive oil is affordable considering the multiple times it can be enjoyed
Olive oils are widely used in cosmetics, resulting in natural products, which provide very interesting compounds for the body that contribute, among other things, to maintain healthy and hydrated skin and hair. This special day can be rounded off with the luxurious gift of a cream or olive oil mask.

The Spanish Olive Oil Interprofessional is a non-profit organization, formed by all the representative entities of the Spanish olive oil sector, whose main objective is the dissemination of the product throughout the world and it does so through the brand Olive Oils from Spain.

Contact:
Oscar Westermeyer
[email protected]
+34-915062860

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/822044/Olive_Oils_Valentines.jpg

SOURCE Olive Oils from Spain

Polo America, LUXURY LV Magazine and Other Prestigious Partners Host One Of the World’s Oldest Team Sports

February 14, 2019

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 12, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Las Vegas Polo Classic takes center field April 13-14, 2019 for its annual extravaganza. Long considered the “Sport of Kings,” historically this is only the second time outdoor polo will be played in Las Vegas. Expected to be as wildly successful as its inaugural year, there’s something for just about everyone during the two-day Classic held at Star Nursery Field (next to Sam Boyd Stadium), 7000 East Russell Road. Gates open at 3:30PM, as the first match gets underway at 4:00PM.

This year’s festivities include a high goal polo match featuring two well known teams with 50 horses to cheer on as guests dine on specialty picnic baskets and other gourmet food and wine selections. Attendees will have an opportunity to stroll Polo Village with a chance to shop and purchase anything from a Range Rover to a designer watch to a private jet. “There is no better place to be when world-class athleticism, high fashion, country-rock, and pure luxury co-mingles within a natural space,” said LUXURY LV Magazine publisher and returning co-sponsor Blue Ash. At the half, Saks Fifth Avenue will feature a formal runway show of spring fashion. Also, trophies for Best Classic Hat and Most Elegant Classic Attire will be awarded, as live music of Wolf Creek fills the air. At dusk, the LUXURY LV Magazine Balloon Glow rounds out the evening with a lineup of hot air balloons for a spectacular display of lights to fire up the sky.

Exclusive sponsors include Synergy Sotheby’s International Realty, Watches of Switzerland, UBS Financial Services, Land Rover Las Vegas, Saks Fifth Avenue at Fashion Show, and LUXURY Las Vegas Magazine. Tickets are currently available and go fast. Larger parties are encouraged to reserve VIP tickets on perfectly tented Millionaire’s Row (table of ten $1000) & Billionaire’s Row (table of ten $1500). Umbrella table seating is $50 for a single ticket. Billionaire’s Row VIP tickets include pre-Classic cocktail receptions at Saks Fifth Avenue Las Vegas (April 11) and Watches of Switzerland, Wynn Las Vegas (April 12). For details and to purchase tickets for one or both days, call Polo America (760) 668-6093 or order online at poloamerica.com/las-vegas-polo-classic-2/.

Polo America celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, and is the oldest and largest marketing firm that specializes in the sport of polo. LUXURY Las Vegas Magazine celebrated its 15th milestone last year.

Contact:
Randy Russell
(760) 668-6093
[email protected]

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SOURCE LUXURY Las Vegas Magazine

DREAM Project to Host Seventh Annual Benefit and Awards in New York City

February 13, 2019

NEW YORK, Feb. 13, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — After seven consecutive years, The DREAM Project’s Sueños Benefit is now among the most eagerly awaited events of the New York City social calendar. Celebrities, educators and New York’s most prominent philanthropists gather every year to help DREAM expand their educational programs, impact more disadvantage communities and close the cycle of poverty in the Dominican Republic.

Invitation to the DREAM Project's Annual Benefit: Sueños 2019

Sueños 2019 is set to take place on Thursday, February 28, 2019 from 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm at The Mezzanine, located at 55 Broadway in Manhattan. This year’s program will bring attendees through an experiential voyage of the Dominican Republic rich culture all under one empowering night full of exquisite food, music and more.

Sueños 2019 red carpet kicks off the night at 6:30 pm with celebrity guest appearances by Dascha Polanco from Orange is the New Black, Latin producer and co-founder of bachata group Aventura Lenny Santos, and actor/writer Taye Diggs. Immediately followed by a VIP tasting featuring an exclusive Dominican culinary demonstration by Chef Kelvin, winner of Beat Bobby Flay. Tickets to this exclusive tasting are limited to 80 VIP guests, who will enjoy the exquisite culinary flavors of the Dominican Republic paired with signature cocktails by Brugal 1888.

Sueños 2019 main event and awards begin at 7:30 pm with an open bar and passed Hors d’oeuvre for everyone. The soireé will feature a presentation of the DREAM Educator of the Year and DREAMer of the Year awards, followed by headline performances by the DREAM Bachata Academy Band. Formed by a group of DREAM Dominican students traveling from the Dominican Republic, the band will share the stage with the legendary Doug Wimbish from Living Colors and the stars from Broadway’s School of Rock, Brandon Niederauer and Raghav Mehrotra. Bachata, jazz and the sounds of rock are for sure a one-in-a-lifetime show not to be missed.

As usual, 100% proceeds from the event will go directly towards DREAM’s programs, impacting more than 9,000 Dominican youth in 27 different communities.

This year’s sponsors, helping DREAM create change and end the cycle of poverty in the Dominican Republic, include: JetBlue, Fast Enterprises, Brugal, Phoenix Tower International, Dominican Republic Tourism, The Latino Network Coalition, Beachwold Residential, and Univision.

To be part of this stellar night and help us make a difference, please visit www.dominicandream.org or purchase tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/suenos-2019-tickets-54366459544?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

WHO WE ARE

DREAM was founded in 2002 by a group of visionary volunteers and donors who, after visiting a public school in Cabarete with no running water or electricity, were compelled to improve Latin America’s poorest performing education system. They established both a US and Dominican non-profit organization to create change. From acclaimed author Julia Alvarez and Pulitzer Prize winner Junot Díaz, to the first Dominican-born member of Congress, Adriano Espaillat, DREAM’s board has consisted of artists, athletes, educators, and philanthropists leading the charge to educate all Dominican youth. We build and run schools together with communities; we establish quality educational programs; and we stay and work with the communities until they are willing and able to do it on their own. This is what sets DREAM apart from other organizations. Our DREAM is that all children and youth in the Dominican Republic will have equal opportunities to learn and realize their full potential through transformative education programs that combat the effects of poverty. DREAM serves more than 9,000 youth throughout 27 DREAM communities across the Dominican Republic. To learn more or to get involved, visit www.dominicandream.org/.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/821838/DREAMProjectSuenos2019Invitation.jpg

SOURCE The DREAM Project

Registration Opens For The 2019 CMC Annual Summit

February 13, 2019

AHAA: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing is rebranding as Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing, which will continue to elevate the quality and effectiveness of U.S. marketing by harnessing the power of cultural expertise and impact to drive business results. (PRNewsfoto/AHAA: The Voice of Hispanic Mar)

FAIRFAX, Va., Feb. 13, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing opened registration today for its 2019 Annual Summit taking place June 10-12 at the Statler Hotel in Dallas. The summit, which brings together the best strategic and creative minds in the multicultural marketing industry, will focus on the theme Culture-Driven Marketing with thought-provoking content to arm a new generation of culture creators with proven strategies to make an impact in today’s complex marketplace.

“Culture is the very heart of the American mainstream, with 2020 marking the first year when the under 17 generation is minority majority; therefore culture is the main currency to connect with today’s multicultural America,” said Ciro Sarmiento, recent chair of Círculo Creativo and chief creative officer of Dieste, who co-chairs the CMC conference committee along with current CMC Chair Isaac Mizrahi. “We look forward to bringing together creative icons and experts on cultural shifts, who can help marketers navigate what’s next and help brands stay ahead.”

The CMC Annual Summit features high-caliber content thoughtfully curated by experts rather than sponsorships, breakthrough data and business-building best practices, and networking opportunities with the biggest players in the multicultural marketing industry. With early-bird rates available through April 19, the registration fee is all-inclusive with sessions, awards gala, meals and cocktail hours covered.

Don’t miss the ultimate top-level, idea-driven multicultural conference, where brands, agencies, media companies and content creators have their voice and share the stage: register here!

For more information, visit culturemarketingcouncil.org and follow the CMC on Facebook and Twitter at @cmchispanic using the conference hashtag #culturedriven.

About CMC
Founded in 1996 as the Association of Hispanic Advertising Agencies, the Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing is the national trade organization of all marketing, communications and media firms with trusted Hispanic expertise.

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SOURCE Culture Marketing Council: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing

A Book Lover’s Guide to San Antonio

February 13, 2019

The library at Hotel Emma in San Antonio, Texas.

SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 13, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Over three illustrious centuries, San Antonio’s allure has captured the imagination of literary luminaries from Robert Frost to Sandra Cisneros. Those with an appreciation for the written word will find there is much to discover in the Alamo City.

San Antonio Book Festival – April 6, 2019
The 7th annual San Antonio Book Festival attracts bibliophiles from far and wide for a celebration of reading, writing and imagination. This free event draws more than 20,000 festival goers for a day of author presentations, panel discussions, book sales, signings and children’s activities. The 2019 edition will showcase more than 100 local, regional, and national authors including An American Marriage novelist Tayari Jones, USA Today Washington bureau chief Susan Page, recent Newbery Medal winner Meg Medina, historian Douglas Brinkley, and more.

Gemini Ink
For budding writers, San Antonio’s leading literary nonprofit Gemini Ink offers creative writing workshops led by published writers, in addition to free public readings by nationally and internationally-recognized authors and open-mic nights throughout the year. The annual Gemini Ink Writers Conference offers a full schedule of workshops, readings, panel presentations and a small press book fair.

San Antonio Central Library
The 240,000 square-foot San Antonio Central Library was designed by renowned Mexican architect Ricardo Legoretta and opened in 1995. The brightly colored downtown building is a bold departure from traditional library design and is easily spotted thanks to its signature “enchilda red” exterior. The Central Library is home to the recently expanded Latino Collection and Resource Center, the Texana/Genealogy Department and the BookCellar, a used book store operated by the Friends of the San Antonio Public Library.

The Twig Book Shop
Since 1972, The Twig has been a destination for book lovers with a vast collection ranging from newly released bestsellers to award-winning classics. Located in the Pearl district, The Twig hosts regionally and nationally-acclaimed authors for readings and signings, as well as a weekly story time for kids. The shop’s extensive Texana section is a must-see for history buffs. The Twig is also a great place to find books published by San Antonio-based Trinity University Press.

Cheever Books
Cheever Books is the place for those seeking rare finds. This cozy shop along the Broadway Cultural Corridor is stacked from floor to ceiling with first editions, leather bound classics and captivating novels. Get lost in their sprawling stacks or ask a knowledgeable staff member for help finding a one-of-a-kind treasure.

University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Library – Special Collections
The University of Texas at San Antonio’s John Peace Library is home to an extensive collection of research materials documenting the diverse histories and development of South Texas. Its nationally-recognized collection of more than 1,500 Mexican cookbook titles includes a selection of handwritten cookbooks, as well as a copy of the first cookbook printed in Mexico, giving an intimate view of Mexican culinary culture.

The Magik Theatre
Young bookworms can see some of their favorite stories come to life with whimsical performances at The Magik Theatre. This professional troupe produces live stage versions of children’s literature in the historic Beethoven Hall at Hemisfair. This season, look for performances of “Mariachi Girl” and “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.”

Stay:
The Menger Hotel
Designated a Literary Landmark by United for Libraries, a division of the American Library Association, the Menger Hotel has hosted a number of literary legends since it opened in 1859 including “The Picture of Dorian Gray” author Oscar Wilde, “The Gift of the Magi” author O. Henry, Confederate soldier and poet Sidney Lanier and “Dinner at Antoine’s” author Frances Parkinson Keyes. It is even said that Robert Frost contemplated his famous poem “The Road Not Taken” during several stays at The Menger.

Hotel Emma
Housed in a former brewery built in the 1800’s, the Hotel Emma is infused with rich detail, but of all the splendid touches, none is sure to delight readers as much as the property’s dazzling hotel library. The library houses a selection of historic brewing books from the Pearl Brewery collection and a 3,700-piece collection acquired from novelist and cultural anthropologist Sherry Kafka Wagner.

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SOURCE Visit San Antonio

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