Olympusat CEO Stresses Impact of OTT at the Horowitz Cultural Insights Forum

October 2, 2018

MIAMI, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — As consumers – especially multicultural viewers – increasingly are cutting the entertainment cord, Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms are gaining in popularity and profitability, said Tom Mohler, CEO of Olympusat Holdings during a special panel discussion at the 18^th Annual Horowitz Cultural Insights Forum.

The founder of one of the largest independent media companies specializing in the ownership, distribution, production and technical services of Spanish and English-language networks, Mohler offered insight into the industry’s evolution to OTT platforms, as well as the strong demand for high production value scripted content targeting multicultural audiences.

Break the Code: How Traditional and New Distributors Are Attracting Diverse Audiences in a Hyper-Competitive Environment, Mohler focused on the impact of OTT platforms in today’s distribution environment. “The industry is definitely evolving, there is a clear shift to OTT platforms for many reasons, one of which is the introduction of programmatic advertising,” he said. “Programmatic advertising brings a new realm of revenue. Now content providers, marketers and advertisers can reach their desired audience through highly targeted digital advertising on VOD content and live TV.”

In addition, the Olympusat executive emphasized how the need for multicultural scripted content is shaking the very foundation of the industry, as well as Olympusat’s efforts to provide companies that don’t have an OTT platform with a cost-efficient and reliable B2B OTT solution. VEMOX, the company’s white-label OTT TV Everywhere solution, combines technology and content, enabling carriers to target multicultural audiences, gain new subscribers, retain existing customers and increase their average revenue per user.

“The interest for more and more scripted content is driving operators to launch competitive TV Everywhere services. VEMOX’s white label platform and multicultural content offers a robust OTT solution to operators looking to deliver a next-generation TV experience to underserved audiences,” Mohler added.

About Olympusat, Inc. (www.olympusat.com)
Based in West Palm Beach, FL, Olympusat, Inc. is one of the largest independent media corporations specializing in ownership, distribution, production and technical services. The company has established itself as a leader in the Hispanic television and media space through its 60+ HD Spanish and English-language television networks, among them the top-rated Spanish-language movie channel Cine Mexicano, the popular Ultra HD Plex, and a distinctive canales religiosos and Specialty Suite representing some of the biggest networks in the industry. Recently Olympusat has launched VEMOX, the white label OTT TV Everywhere B2B solution, available for download in App Store (iOS), Google Play Store (Android), Apple TV, Xbox One, and Samsung Smart TVs. To learn more about Olympusat and Vemox, please visit olympusat.com, vemox.com

Olympusat – Press Contact:
Jesús Piñango
561-249-5228
[email protected]

SOURCE Olympusat, Inc.

Small And Mid-Size Business Owners Feel A Slight Chill In The Air

October 2, 2018

FALL_2018_Economic_Outlook_FINAL_ID_7f72429b07a7

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Historic optimism about the national economy from the spring (50 percent) chilled slightly this fall (40 percent), but remains well above fall 2017 (29 percent), according to the PNC Economic Outlook, a semiannual telephone survey of small and middle-market business owners and executives. Four out of 10 business leaders described their outlook for the national economy as optimistic, the second-highest rating in the 15-year survey.

Those with a pessimistic outlook increased to 12 percent this fall from the historic low of 8 percent in the spring. Similarly, half (51 percent) are optimistic regarding their own businesses for the next six months, a drop from the historic high of 58 percent in spring 2018. Pessimism remains at a historic low of 4 percent.

“Optimism for small and mid-sized business owners about the national economy, their local economies, and their own companies remains near record highs, although it has slipped slightly since the spring, according to our fall 2018 survey,” said Gus Faucher, chief economist of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. “Hiring expectations also are near a record high, as we continue to witness the second-longest economic expansion in U.S. history.”

Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of business leaders expect increased sales, dropping marginally from spring 2018 (69 percent). Expectations for increased profits are the second-highest on record (59 percent), only outpaced in spring 2018 (64 percent). Businesses anticipating a decrease in profits remains at a historic low (6 percent).

Key survey findings include:

Price Check: The number of business leaders forecasting rising prices in the next six months gained momentum. More than half (53 percent vs. 41 percent in spring 2018) anticipate suppliers charging more; 45 percent (vs. 29 percent in spring 2018) plan to charge their customers more. Of those planning to raise the prices they charge customers, (45 percent) anticipate a one- to two-percent hike, while 25 percent anticipate a 5 percent or more increase. Increasing business, favorable market conditions and rising labor costs are among the key drivers of higher pricing. Only 3 percent of businesses anticipate lowering prices.

Waging Workers: Small and mid-size business leaders expect wages and hiring to remain near the record highs reported in spring 2018. 46 percent expect to increase wages (vs. 49 percent in spring 2018), while the number planning to decrease workers’ wages remains at a survey low of 2 percent.

Bonus Round: With the labor market continuing to tighten, eight in 10 (82 percent) business leaders across all industry sectors say they already have taken one or more actions to retain existing or to attract new employees: increasing wages/salaries (44 percent), offering or increasing bonuses (24 percent), and boosting benefits (24 percent). Over one in four (28 percent) have allowed more flexible work arrangements and one in 10 have relaxed hiring standards.

The Three Faces of Tariffs: Four out of 10 (41 percent) respondents report currently selling items or services to or buying items or services from other countries to some extent. The percentages are significantly higher for manufacturers (59 percent) and wholesalers/retailers (47 percent). However, only 8 percent of all respondents characterize the volume of that trade as “large.” When asked to choose sides on increasing U.S. tariffs on other countries’ goods based upon what’s best for their own business, 41 percent are in support (33 percent in spring 2017) and 31 percent are opposed (32 percent in spring 2017); more than a quarter of business leaders (27 percent) are uncertain.

As a result, four out of 10 anticipate paying higher prices to suppliers. Three out of 10 business leaders (31 percent) expect to increase the prices they charge their customers should the United States impose increased tariffs on other countries’ goods, but nearly half (47 percent) expect no impact. Nearly half of business leaders (48 percent) do not expect any impact on company sales, with 18 percent anticipating increased sales. Only 8 percent forecast decreased sales as a result of increased U.S. tariffs on goods from other countries.

Taxed Out: Familiarity with the impact of the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 on business increased slightly to 32 percent (vs. 27 percent in spring 2018); 35 percent are familiar with the new tax law, but uncertain how it will affect their business, dropping from 45 percent in spring 2018. Significantly fewer business leaders (34 percent) view the potential impact to their bottom line as positive (43 percent in spring 2018 ). A third (32 percent) still believe it is too early to tell or simply do not know. 75 percent of business leaders have not made or do not expect to make any changes to their businesses as a result of tax reform, jumping from 61 percent in spring 2018.

A digital package containing national and regional survey results is available at http://pnc.mediaroom.com/digital-packages.

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC) is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.

Methodology
The PNC Economic Outlook survey was conducted by telephone from 7/9/2018 to 9/13/2018, among small and mid-sized businesses. 503 interviews were conducted nationally. Sampling error for the nationwide results is +/- 4.4% at the 95% confidence level. The survey was conducted by Artemis Strategy Group (www.ArtemisSG.com), a communications strategy research firm specializing in brand positioning and policy issues. The firm, headquartered in Washington D.C., provides communications research and consulting to a range of public and private sector clients.

DISCLAIMER: This report was prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as specific advice or recommendations. Any reliance upon this information is solely and exclusively at your own risk. NOTE: The sum of percentages may not add to the total due to rounding.

CONTACT:
Amy Vargo
(412) 762-1535
[email protected]

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SOURCE PNC Financial Services Group

Habla Español? EWTN Adds Spanish Track To 2018 Family Celebration in Jacksonville, Fla.

October 2, 2018

IRONDALE, Alabama, Oct. 2, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — EWTN Global Catholic Network is coming to Jacksonville, Fla. Saturday, Nov. 3 for the 2018 Family Celebration – and this year Spanish-speaking viewers can enjoy something special: a Spanish language track featuring some of the most popular hosts from EWTN Español, EWTN’s Spanish language network!

This means attendees can choose to hear talks in Spanish by Fr. Pedro Nuñez, Msgr. Wilfredo Peña & Alejandro Bermúdez, in addition to talks in English by Fr. Mitch Pacwa, Johnnette Benkovic, and Chris Stefanick. Doors to this FREE event at the Prime Osborn Convention Center open at 8:30 a.m.

“This is a unique opportunity for viewers of EWTN Español to personally meet three giants of evangelization in Latin America,” said Enrique Duprat, Vice President of Spanish language programming and production.

Father Pedro, a priest of the archdiocese of New Orleans and one of the best-known Catholic preachers in the Spanish-speaking world, is host of “Conozca Primero su Fe Católica” on EWTN Español as well as “A Solas con Jesús” on EWTN Radio Católica Mundial.

Msgr. Wilfredo Peña, who has been evangelizing on Catholic radio and televisión for 30 years, is host of “Mientras el Mundo Gira” on EWTN Español, while Alejandro Bermúdez, executive director of ACI Prensa (Spanish) and Catholic News Agency, is host of “Cara a Cara” on EWTN Español.

The headlining talks are only the beginning. Viewers won’t want to miss the question & answer session with EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw, EWTN President & COO Doug Keck, Fr. Joseph and Fr. Mark, who will be on stage for the much-loved Family Talk. Plus, viewers also can be part of the studio audience during the recording of a special “EWTN Family Celebration Live Show.”

That’s still not all! Guests will also have the opportunity to celebrate Mass with Bishop Felipe J. Estévez of the Diocese of St. Augustine and EWTN’s Friars; spend time in Adoration, go to Confession, meet EWTN hosts and authors face-to-face, and browse the EWTN Religious Catalogue shop.

Children are not only welcomed, but encouraged to attend. Look for special children’s activities in the Kid’s Corner. EWTN Radio will broadcast live on-site throughout the day, and staff from the National Catholic Register will be on hand to answer questions. Attendees will even have an opportunity to join EWTN in its mission of evangelization by becoming an EWTN Media Missionary!

It’s a feast for the mind, the heart, and the spirit! For more information, please go to our website: http://www.ewtn.com/familycelebration/.

We look forward to seeing you there!

EWTN Global Catholic Network, in its 37th year, is the largest religious media network in the world. EWTN’s 11 TV channels are broadcast in multiple languages 24 hours a day, seven days a week to over 290 million television households in more than 145 countries and territories. EWTN platforms also include radio services transmitted through SIRIUS/XM, iHeart Radio, and over 500 domestic and international AM & FM radio affiliates; a worldwide shortwave radio service; the largest Catholic website in the U.S.; electronic and print news services, including Catholic News Agency, “The National Catholic Register” newspaper, and several global news wire services; as well as EWTN Publishing, its book publishing division.

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SOURCE EWTN Global Catholic Network

FIBRA Prologis to Host Third Quarter 2018 Earnings Conference Call October 26

October 1, 2018

MEXICO CITY, Oct. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — FIBRA Prologis (BMV: FIBRAPL 14), a leading owner and operator of Class-A logistics real estate in Mexico, will host a webcast and conference call with senior management to discuss third quarter results, current market conditions and future outlook on Friday, October 26, at 8:00 a.m. CT/09:00 a.m. ET.

To access a live broadcast of the call, dial +1 877 256 7020 (toll-free from the United States and Canada), 01 800 926 9146 (toll-free from Mexico) or +1 973 409 9692 from all other countries and enter conference code 93296073. A live webcast can be accessed at www.fibraprologis.com in the Investor Relations section October 26.

A telephonic replay will be available October 26 – November 2 at +1 855 859 2056 from the U.S. and Canada or at +1 404 537 3406 from all other countries using conference code 93296073 and security code 31833. The replay will be posted in the Investor Relations section of the FIBRA Prologis website.

ABOUT FIBRA PROLOGIS

FIBRA Prologis is a leading owner and operator of Class-A logistics real estate in Mexico. As of June 30, 2018, FIBRA Prologis comprised 196 logistics and manufacturing facilities in six industrial markets in Mexico totaling 34.6 million square feet (3.2 million square meters) of gross leasable area.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The statements in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the industry and markets in which FIBRA Prologis operates, management’s beliefs and assumptions made by management. Such statements involve uncertainties that could significantly impact FIBRA Prologis financial results. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, which generally are not historical in nature. All statements that address operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future — including statements relating to rent and occupancy growth, acquisition activity, development activity, disposition activity, general conditions in the geographic areas where we operate, our debt and financial position, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Although we believe the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained and therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may affect outcomes and results include, but are not limited to: (i) national, international, regional and local economic climates, (ii) changes in financial markets, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates, (iii) increased or unanticipated competition for our properties, (iv) risks associated with acquisitions, dispositions and development of properties, (v) maintenance of real estate investment trust (“FIBRA”) status and tax structuring, (vi) availability of financing and capital, the levels of debt that we maintain and our credit ratings, (vii) risks related to our investments (viii) environmental uncertainties, including risks of natural disasters, and (ix) those additional factors discussed in reports filed with the “Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores” and the Mexican Stock Exchange by FIBRA Prologis under the heading “Risk Factors.” FIBRA Prologis undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements appearing in this release.

Non-Solicitation – Any securities discussed herein or in the accompanying presentations, if any, have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 or the securities laws of any state and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements under the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws. Any such announcement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities discussed herein or in the presentations, if and as applicable.

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SOURCE FIBRA Prologis

Knights’ Carl Anderson Tells Hispanic Catholics they Can Shape Future of U.S. Church

October 1, 2018

NEW HAVEN, Connecticut, Sept. 25, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Our Lady of Guadalupe is at work today in the Church in the United States through the faith and action of her numerous followers, Knights of Columbus Supreme Knight Carl Anderson told the Fifth National Encuentro for Hispanic/Latino Ministry that concluded Sunday in Grapevine, Texas.

Anderson told the audience at the conference that “She is very relevant today and there is a Guadalupe miracle today in our country.” He added, “That miracle is the appearance of millions of Guadalupanos and Guadalupanas in this country that can shape the future of our Church.”

Anderson noted that the Encuentro gathering is an opportunity “to tell the other Catholics in our country that Hispanic Catholics have gifts to give you.”

A key objective of the Encuentro, which followed smaller, regional meetings, is to challenge Latino Catholics to go further and “better respond as missionary disciples in service to the entire Church,” according to organizers.

Hispanics comprise about 40 percent of Church membership in the United States, according to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The Latino Church population is particularly large among youth and young adults. Fifty percent of American Catholics ages 14 to 29 are Hispanic, and 55 percent of Catholics under 14 are Hispanic.

The Knights of Columbus has long recognized the devotion of Hispanic Catholics and their important contributions to the Catholic Faith. K of C councils were instituted in Mexico as early as 1905 and first primarily Hispanic council in the U.S. was founded in Los Angeles in 1927.

Today, the Knights of Columbus has hundreds of Spanish-speaking councils, and thousands of Hispanic members, said Anderson, who recalled the advice of Pope Francis to Latino Catholics during his 2015 visit to the United States.

“[Pope Francis] said, first, you have many gifts to give to the nation,” said Anderson. “And, second, do not be afraid, do not be ashamed of your traditions.”

For Hispanic Catholicism, those traditions are closely associated with Mary and the impact on evangelization prompted by the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe, said Anderson, Upon becoming supreme knight of the K of C in 2000, Anderson declared Our Lady of Guadalupe to be patroness of the Knights of Columbus, placing every Knights council everywhere in the world under her protection.

Anderson is also the co-author, along with Msgr. Eduardo Chavez, of “Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mother of the Civilization of Love,” on how Our Lady of Guadalupe’s message is both historically significant and speaks to contemporary issues confronting the people of the American continents.

“The future of America is the future of Guadalupanos and Guadalupanas,” said Anderson of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s ongoing impact that reaches far beyond the hilltop in Mexico City where she first appeared. “That’s the miracle today.”

Our Lady of Guadalupe’s image appeared on the cloak of indigenous Mexican convert Juan Diego in 1531. The cloak revealed important elements of the Christian faith through native symbols easily recognized by the indigenous people, resulting in the conversion of millions to the Catholic faith.

About the Knights of Columbus
Founded in 1882, the Knights of Columbus is a 1.9 million-member fraternal organization and Fortune 1000 insurance company. The K of C is known for its contributions to communities and parishes, and its reach extends to the rest of the world, as well. Whether it’s donating food and clothes, providing support for disaster relief, helping persecuted Christians in the Middle East, volunteering to help children with special needs with the Special Olympics or supporting mothers of unborn children, Knights demonstrate the power and impact of men turning their faith into action every day. 2017 was a record-setting year for Knights of Columbus charitable work with an unprecedented $185.6 million in donations and 75.6 million hours of volunteer service provided worldwide. For more information, visit www.kofc.org.

SOURCE Knights of Columbus

Women Of Power Dominate Lineup Of 16th Annual Hispanic Television Summit

October 1, 2018

NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The line-up of speakers, moderators, celebrities and award recipients for the 16^th Annual Hispanic Television Summit is dominated by women of power. They comprise 50% of the diverse line-up of leaders from advertising, brands, producers, networks, cable, satellite, and OTT. The summit is a “must attend” event for those in the business of TV and video for Hispanics. It is presented by two Future U.S. television industry brands, Broadcasting & Cable and Multichannel News, and scheduled for Thursday, October 4, 2018 at the New York Marriott Marquis.

“This year’s summit theme of “new directions” reflects how the Hispanic sector of TV and video is leading the industry. Opportunities for women is just one example,” said Joe Schramm, the summit producer. He continued, “We are featuring three female keynoters who are all discussing new directions for advertising. This is purposeful since the summit coincides with Advertising Week NY when thousands of their colleagues will be in the city.”

The opening keynote with Sandra Alfaro, Managing Director, WING, GREY NY will address the value of targeted messaging in advertising creative. Two other keynote interviews feature Laura Molen, Executive Vice President, Hispanic Advertising Sales at NBCUniversal, and Yvette Peña, Vice President, at AARP. Schramm added, “Ms. Molen will address audience dynamics, and Ms. Pena will discuss the Latino pursuit of the American dream.” Other power Latinas in advertising appearing at the summit are Lucia Ballas-Traynor, from Hemisphere Media Group and Karina Dobarro SVP, Multicultural Horizon Media.

Power Latinas also are featured in three of the four lunchtime award presentations. Telemundo will be acknowledged for their expanded delivery of noteworthy content like the FIFA World Cup with the Award for Corporate Leadership in the Programmer category. Mónica Gil, EVP and CMO will accept the award. This is the first time this award is presented to a network. Lisa Torres, President Publicis Multicultural Practice is the recipient of the Award for Executive Leadership in Hispanic Television and Video (Media category) for her commitment of brand investment in Hispanic media. Jessica Rodriguez, President, COO & CMO of Univision Networks will be presented the Award for Executive Leadership in Hispanic Television and Video in the programmer category for her exceptional career. Victoria Sosa, Host of Acceso Total on Telemundo 47 / WNJU will host the ceremony. Receiving the Award for Corporate Leadership in Hispanic Television and Video (Service Provider) is Cox Communications which is being recognized for its decades of service to Hispanics. The award will be accepted by Luis Caballero Executive Director, Marketing/Hispanic Strategy on behalf of the company.

The morning program focuses on advertising. In addition to the Opening Keynote, there is a dynamic session about the core trends in advertising, and a series of unique one-on-one keynote interviews that focus on ad sales, sponsorship, consumer data applications and OTT. The morning is hosted by Maria Santana, correspondent for CNN En Español.

The afternoon program, hosted by Jessica Formoso, reporter with FOX 5 NY, focuses on programming, talent, marketing and content distribution and features Romina Rosado, of Noticias Telemundo; Claudia Lizaldi from INTI TV; Marisol Martinez from Charter Communications, Angelina Losada from Fox Deportes, Friday Abernethy of Univision, and Amanda Serrano, the most accomplished, female world champion boxer.

“Of course, men are prominent in our agenda as well,” said Schramm. In his afternoon keynote, Michael Schwimmer, President and CEO of Fuse will discuss benefits of an independent network, and he’ll share network plans for serving multicultural millennials. Other keynoters are Tom Mohler of Olympusat Holdings, Michael Pine of Combate Americas and Marc Bland from IHS Markit. Attendees will also hear from talent, like Jack Rico from NBC’s Consumer 101 Show, and Jorge Viera, former news anchor for Univision. Last year’s award recipient for Executive Leadership, Gonzalo Del Fa, of GroupM is featured in the morning program which also includes panelists from Heineken USA, Cisneros, Univision and comScore. The afternoon will feature key executives from Comcast, BBC Studios, Condista, Atresmedia Internacional, THEMA AMERICA, Castalia, Campanario Entertainment, and John Leguizamo’s NGL Studios.

Save 35% off the full rate when you register online. Use Promo code HS35 at https://www.hispanictvsummit.com/hts-2018/register?code=HS35

About Schramm Marketing Group

Schramm is a marketing agency specializing in segmented marketing, sponsorships, ticket sales, and producing conferences for the television and video industry. The company is recognized for its expertise in attracting crowds for international soccer and for driving pay TV subscription sales. They launched Fantastico.nyc where Latinos buy tickets online in Spanish. Schramm produces the Hispanic Television Summit as well as other recognized conferences. Schramm’s clients include leading brands in sports, television, entertainment, and non-profits. For more information, visit www.schrammnyc.com.

For more information, contact:

Schramm Marketing Group
Navi Ramnarain
212.983.0219
[email protected]

SOURCE Schramm Marketing Group

New Study Confirms Mediterranean Diet Prevents a Leading Cause of Blindness

October 1, 2018

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 30, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Evidence is mounting that a poor diet plays an important role in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in the United States. A large collaboration of researchers from the European Union investigating the connection between genes and lifestyle on the development of AMD has found that people who adhered to a Mediterranean diet cut their risk of late-stage AMD by 41 percent. This research expands on previous studies and suggests that such a diet is beneficial for everyone, whether you already have the disease or are at risk of developing it. The new research is now online in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

A Mediterranean diet emphasizes eating less meat and more fish, vegetables, fruits, legumes, unrefined grains, and olive oil. Previous research has linked it to a longer lifespan and a reduced incidence of heart disease and cognitive decline. But only a few studies have evaluated its impact on AMD. Some studies showed it can help with certain types of AMD, or only at different stages of the disease.

But combining this earlier research on AMD with the latest data, and a clear picture emerges. Diet has the potential to prevent a blinding disease.

AMD is a degenerative eye disease. It causes loss of central vision, which is crucial for simple everyday activities, such as the ability to see faces, drive, read, and write. It’s a leading cause of vision loss among people age 50 and older, affecting 1.8 million Americans. By 2020, that number is expected to climb to nearly 3 million.

For this latest study, researchers analyzed food-frequency questionnaires from nearly 5,000 people who participated in two previous investigations – the Rotterdam Study, which evaluated disease risk in people age 55 and older, and the Alienor Study, which assessed the association between eye diseases and nutritional factors in people aged 73 and older. Patients in the Rotterdam study were examined and completed food questionnaires every five years over a 21-year period, while patients in the Alienor Study were seen every two years over a 4-year period. The researchers found that those who closely followed the diet were 41 percent less likely to develop AMD compared with those who did not follow the diet.

They also found that none of the individual components of a Mediterranean diet on their own – fish, fruit, vegetables, etc. – lowered the risk of AMD. Rather, it was the entire pattern of eating a nutrient-rich diet that significantly reduced the risk of late AMD.

“You are what you eat,” said Emily Chew, M.D., a clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, who serves on an advisory board to the research group conducting the study. “I believe this is a public health issue on the same scale as smoking. Chronic diseases such as AMD, dementia, obesity, and diabetes, all have roots in poor dietary habits. It’s time to take quitting a poor diet as seriously as quitting smoking.”

There are two kinds of AMD – dry and wet. The dry type affects about 80 to 90 percent of people with AMD. In dry AMD, small white or yellowish deposits, called drusen, form on the retina, causing it to deteriorate over time. In the wet form, blood vessels grow under the retina and leak. While there is an effective treatment available for the wet type, there is no treatment available for dry AMD.

Find more information about eye health and how to protect your eyes on the Academy’s EyeSmart website.

About the American Academy of Ophthalmology
The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons. A global community of 32,000 medical doctors, we protect sight and empower lives by setting the standards for ophthalmic education and advocating for our patients and the public. We innovate to advance our profession and to ensure the delivery of the highest-quality eye care. Our EyeSmart^®program provides the public with the most trusted information about eye health. For more information, visit aao.org.

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SOURCE American Academy of Ophthalmology

Gutride Safier LLP Announces Class Action Affecting California Purchasers of Canada Dry Ginger Ale

October 1, 2018

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Gutride Safier LLP today announced that a class action has been certified involving California purchasers of Canada Dry Ginger Ale products with a trial set for January 2019 in San Jose.

WHO IS AFFECTED BY THE CASE?
The Court has certified a class of “All persons who, between December 28, 2012 and June 26, 2018, purchased any Canada Dry Ginger Ale products in the state of California.”

All persons who are members of the class will be bound by the judgment in this case, unless you request to be excluded.

WHAT IS THE LAWSUIT ABOUT?
A lawsuit was brought against Keurig Dr. Pepper (“KDP”). The plaintiffs in the suit claim that KDP mislabels its Canada Dry brand ginger ales sold in California as “Made From Real Ginger.”

Plaintiffs contend that the claim “Made From Real Ginger” caused the soda to sell at a higher market price (a “premium”). Plaintiffs seek refund of the alleged premiums to all California purchasers during the time periods stated above.

KDP contends that its Canada Dry ginger ales are, and always have been, properly labeled. It also denies that there was any “premium” price attributable to the labelling claims.

The Court has not determined whether plaintiffs or KDP is correct.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT IN THE CASE?
The case is set for trial on January 7, 2019 in U.S. District Court in San Jose. KDP has asked the Court to grant summary judgment in its favor before trial, and Plaintiffs have opposed. A hearing is scheduled for October 17, 2018. The parties may also try to settle the case. If there is a class settlement, additional notice will be distributed.

HOW CAN PEOPLE EXCLUDE THEMSELVES FROM THE CASE?
A class member may preserve the right to sue KDP separately for the claims being litigated, only by submitting a timely request for exclusion from the class. Upon submitting the request for exclusion, the person will be removed from the class and cannot share in any money that may be awarded to the class.

To be excluded, the class member must complete and submit the online form at www.canadadryclassaction.com or mail a request to Canada Dry Ginger Ale Litigation, c/o GCG, P.O. Box 10629, Dublin, OH 43017-9229. If mailed, the exclusion request must contain the person’s name, address, the words “I wish to be excluded from the Canada Dry Class Action,” and the person’s signature.

Exclusion requests must be made or postmarked by October 30, 2018.

How Do I Get More Information?
Additional information is available at the website maintained by the court-appointed notice administrator, at www.canadadryclassaction.com.

You can contact plaintiffs’ counsel, Gutride Safier LLP, at www.gutridesafier.com/investigations/canadadry/24. You can also write to Gutride Safier at 100 Pine Street, Suite 1250, San Francisco, CA 94111, call at 415-639-9090, or email [email protected].

Other papers filed in this lawsuit are available through PACER, the online service for the United States District Courts, at ecf.cacd.uscourts.gov. Alternatively you may visit the office of the Clerk of the Court for the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, 450 Golden Gate Ave, San Francisco, CA from 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding Court holidays. Please do not write to or call the Court for information or advice.

SOURCE Gutride Safier LLP

Alcohol Justice Is Reporting SB 905 Wiener’s 4 a.m. Bar Bill Fails: Governor Brown Vetoes The Dangerous Experiment

October 1, 2018

Alcohol Justice logo. (PRNewsFoto/Alcohol Justice)

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 28, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — According to Michael Scippa at California Alcohol Policy Alliance (CAPA), and Alcohol Justice, “We are expressing gratitude to California Governor Jerry Brown today, as he sent SB 905, State Senator Scott Wiener’s 4 a.m. bar bill, into the dustbin of failed legislation.”

“I am glad to see the Governor once again applying common sense in dealing with an issue that affects us all,” stated Actor / Activist Kurtwood Smith.

“Governor Brown’s veto of SB 905 is a great victory for the health and well-being of all Californians,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Executive Director at Pueblo y Salud, and a founder of CAPA. “The hospitality and alcohol industries, and their minion Senator Wiener, have been stopped one more time. Thank God that sane minds have prevailed.”

Governor Brown in his veto statement said, “I believe we have enough mischief from midnight to 2 without adding two more hours of mayhem.”

“We want healthier lifestyles in California, not highway fatalities at 4 in the morning. We are glad Governor Brown cited the strong opposition of the California State Highway Patrol to SB 905 in his veto message,” stated Bruce Lee Livingston, Executive Director / CEO of Alcohol Justice. “Senator Scott Wiener has vowed to bring up a 4 a.m. bar bill again next year, the same dumb idea that has been defeated since 2004, but CAPA will be ready. Later bar times mean more emergency room visits, more street violence and bar brawls, and more noise in neighborhoods.”

The peer-reviewed evidence for increased harms was presented to the legislature and the Governor this year in a joint CAPA/Alcohol Justice report entitled, The Late Night Threat, Science, Harms, and Costs of Extending Bar Service Hours. It highlighted the existing data supporting how the acute effects of extending alcohol sales would spread to “Splash Zones” surrounding the cities in Wiener’s poorly constructed “pilot project.” Those nine cities, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, Oakland, Long Beach, West Hollywood, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and Coachella, as well as the Splash Zones surrounding them, will now be spared additional alcohol-fueled harm.

“This year, Senator Wiener made a mockery of scientific research and the legislative process by mislabeling his dangerous experiment a ‘pilot project”‘, stated Michael Scippa, Public Affairs Director at Alcohol Justice. “A true, scientifically designed ‘pilot project’ would cover only a small sample, not over 76% of the state’s population. Virtually the entire state would have been exposed to additional alcohol-related harms if Governor Brown had not vetoed the bill. He made the right choice and we commend him for choosing public health and safety over nightlife profits. We also commend the California Highway Patrol (CHP) for their expert counsel to the Governor on the bill.”

California currently suffers over 10,500 alcohol-related deaths and $35 billion in costs annually. The California Office of Traffic Safety has reported that fatal DUI is a chronic, worsening problem for the state. Between 2014 and 2016, alcohol-related crash deaths rose 21%. That number would have only gone up with two additional hours of alcohol consumption. The only benefits of selling alcohol between 2 and 4 a.m. would be greater profits to bar, restaurant, and club owners; while the public and all levels of government would be forced to continue to cover the costs of cleaning up the mess that follows.

Margot Bennet, Executive Director at Women Against Gun Violence also expressed appreciation, “Gun violence and alcohol are linked so we are pleased that the Governor has vetoed this dangerous bill.”

“We applaud the Governor for looking beyond the hype,” stated Scott Suckow, Executive Director with the American Liver Foundation’s Pacific Coast Division. “Binge drinking is an increasingly common, costly, and deadly pattern of excessive alcohol use. Governor Brown’s veto of SB 905 will make a difference among young people who would have been disproportionally affected by extending last call.”

Livingston added a timely note, saying: “Binge drinking is rampant in the United States, as was evidenced this week in the Senate Judiciary Committee hearings regarding Judge Brett Kavanaugh. One in six Americans have binge drinking problems according to the CDC, and later bar times will only accelerate that problem.”

For More Information go to: www.AlcoholJustice.org or www.alcoholpolicyalliance.org/
Media availability in San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Sacramento.

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

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/147418/alcohol_justice_logo.jpg

SOURCE Alcohol Justice

Three Important Rules When Kids Find a Gun: Stop. Run Away. Tell an Adult.

October 1, 2018

LEAWOOD, Kan., Oct. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Twelve-year-old Jacob and his cousins, a little bored with their parents’ conversation at the family reunion, had decided to leave the picnic tables and start a softball game. With the game tied, it was cousin Kelsey’s turn to bat. She hit the ball beyond the field and into nearby bushes. When outfielder Jacob ran to retrieve the ball, he discovered it. A loaded 9-millimeter Beretta, caked with dirt.

At age 12, Jacob knew just what to do. His parents had discussed firearm safety many times over the years. He stopped, stepped away from the firearm, and ran to the picnic tables to tell his parents.

“That’s precisely what children should do if they find a gun,” said Kathleen Eubanks-Meng, DO, a family physician in Kansas City. “As parents, we can protect our children at home, but we also need to make sure they are safe wherever they are—in a park, at a friend’s house or elsewhere.”

Research has found that firearm injuries are the third leading cause of death among children 17 and younger. Gun safety at home—keeping the firearm and ammunition in separate, locked locations—is the most important safety precaution parents can take. But teaching children how to respond when they see a gun is equally vital, according to Eubanks-Meng.

“About one in three families with children younger than 12 have a gun at home,” she said. “So, in addition to ensuring their own firearms are safely stored away from their children’s reach, we advise parents to know about firearms in others’ homes before their children go to visit. This includes the homes of friends, relatives or even a babysitter.”

Parents may feel awkward about asking whether a gun is in the home and, if so, whether it’s locked and properly stored. But doing so helps ensure accidents won’t happen. CDC data analyzed by the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence show that from 2012 to 2016, on average, seven children and teenagers die and 39 suffer injuries from firearms each day. That translates to 2,737 deaths and 14,470 injuries resulting from firearms each year.

“Firearm injuries happen too often among children who don’t understand that real guns are not toys. They need to understand that if they find a firearm, they should follow safety rules: stop, don’t touch, go away and tell an adult,” said Eubanks-Meng.

About American Academy of Family Physicians
Founded in 1947, the American Academy of Family Physicians represents 131,400 physicians and medical students nationwide, and it is the only medical society devoted solely to primary care.

Family physicians conduct approximately one in five of the total medical office visits in the United States per year – more than any other specialty. Family physicians provide comprehensive, evidence-based, and cost-effective care dedicated to improving the health of patients, families and communities. Family medicine’s cornerstone is an ongoing and personal patient-physician relationship where the family physician serves as the hub of each patient’s integrated care team. More Americans depend on family physicians than on any other medical specialty.

To learn more about the AAFP and family medicine, visit www.aafp.org/media. Follow us on Twitter, and like us on Facebook. For information about health care, health conditions and wellness, visit the AAFP’s award-winning consumer website, www.familydoctor.org.

SOURCE American Academy of Family Physicians

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