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Sprint and Telemundo Deportes Team Up to Get Consumers in “Fútbol Mode” and Enjoy Telemundo’s Spanish Language Coverage of 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™

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OVERLAND PARK, Kansas, May 8, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — GOOOOOOOOOL!!! Sprint (NYSE: S) is joining forces with Telemundo Deportes as the halftime sponsor of Telemundo’s Spanish-language coverage of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™. To celebrate, Sprint is unveiling a new Fútbol Mode campaign ensuring customers are connected to world-class soccer content virtually anytime and anywhere, even during work hours which is a majority of when this summer’s games are scheduled.1

“At Sprint, we’re passionate about keeping customers connected to the things that are most important to them,” said Marcelo Claure, Sprint CEO. “World Cup is the top tournament in the world’s most popular sport and it only happens once every four years. We want to make it easy for our customers to join the excitement. Sprint Fútbol Mode will rally soccer fans and bring them closer to the action, no matter where they are.”

Switch into Fútbol Mode and Enjoy the Best Price for Unlimited with International Roaming
Through the Sprint Network built for Unlimited, customers will be able to stream soccer content in high-definition, on-the-go. In addition, Sprint is providing travelers a sweet treat with a distinctively international flavor. With Sprint Global Roaming2 customers can stay connected while in Russia with free text, free voice, and free high-speed data.3

Unlimited Fútbol Mode Vision Hacks, Mobile Tools and Sweepstakes
Sprint has created Unlimited Fútbol Vision hacks to help soccer fans get into Fútbol Mode virtually anywhere – even at work. These unique hacks will be available for consumers participating in the Fútbol Mode sweepstakes4. In addition, Sprint launched interactive mobile tools to help fans get closer to exciting memorable moments without work getting in the way. Fans can participate to win the mobile hacks or access the tools by visiting www.futbolmode.com. The mobile tools will also be incorporated into the Fútbol Mode channel within the Telemundo Deportes En Vivo App.

Enjoying the Game with the help of Soccer Legends and Special Contest
Sprint is also offering Pide el Cambio Contest, giving fans the chance to “get into Fútbol Mode” at their workplace with the help of a soccer legend. El Pibe, Jorge Campos and Claudio Suarez will cover the winners so they can watch a game and not miss the action. Fans can enter by sharing an interesting story of why they deserve a soccer legend to help get them into Fútbol Mode at www.futbolmode.com/cambio.

“Soccer is a sport that belongs to the fans, and I am excited to take over a lucky fan’s day job so that they can get into Fútbol Mode,” said soccer legend Pibe Valderrama. “Sprint is the only carrier to help all soccer fans not just enjoy the game but feel celebrated and championed too.”

Celebrating the Love of Soccer with a Fútbol Mode Anthem
Multi-platinum, award-winning musician and brand partner, Prince Royce and Sprint have produced a new soccer anthem titled, 90 Minutos (Fútbol Mode). The anthem is available now for download.

“Sprint and I aim to get fans into Fútbol Mode and there’s no better way to do it than through music,” said Prince Royce. “90 Minutos (Fútbol Mode) is a blend of high energy beats that will have everyone on their feet and celebrating world-class soccer.”

About Sprint:
Sprint (NYSE: S) is a communications services company that creates more and better ways to connect its customers to the things they care about most. Sprint served 54.6 million connections as of March 31, 2018 and is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including the first wireless 4G service from a national carrier in the United States; leading no-contract brands including Virgin Mobile USA, Boost Mobile, and Assurance Wireless; instant national and international push-to-talk capabilities; and a global Tier 1 Internet backbone. Today, Sprint’s legacy of innovation and service continues with an increased investment to dramatically improve coverage, reliability, and speed across its nationwide network and commitment to launching the first 5G mobile network in the U.S. You can learn more and visit Sprint at www.sprint.com or www.facebook.com/sprint and www.twitter.com/sprint.

1 Telemundo Deportes is the exclusive Spanish-language home of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ in the United States. Watching actual games on the Telemundo Deportes En Vivo application requires a subscription to a video provider.
2 For Sprint postpaid plans. Reqs. capable device.  In select cities includes data at up to 2G speeds, SMS text (excl. audio, picture & video messaging). For a list of available roaming cities, visit sprint.com/sww. Not for extended international use; primary usage must occur on our U.S. network. Svc. may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming.
3 Voice and Up to 4G LTE avail. Awarded in seven-day passes June 7 through July 19, 2018.
4 NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Promotion includes a contest and sweepstakes. Promotion starts at 11:00 AM ET on 4/23/18. Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 6/6/18 (must enter by 5/18/18 to be eligible for Carlos Valderrama or Jorge Campos contest prize). Sweepstakes ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 6/28/18. Open only to legal 50 US/DC residents who are at least 18 years of age. See Official Rules at sprintfutbolmode.com/cambio for complete details, including how to enter, contest judging criteria, odds of winning a sweepstakes prize, prize details, and restrictions. Void in where prohibited. Sponsor: Sprint, 6200 Sprint Pkwy, Overland Park, KS 66211.

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SOURCE Sprint

Discovery U.S. Hispanic Presents 2018-2019 Upfront Slate, Touts New Programming and Multi-Platform Value

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Discovery U.S. Hispanic 2017-2018 Upfront

NEW YORK, May 8, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Discovery U.S. Hispanic announced today its 2018-2019 Upfront slate, unveiling Discovery en Español’s compelling new programming lineup and providing a first look at the new Discovery Familia whose signature women and kids programming will now be complemented by the company’s acquisition of Scripps Networks Interactive.

Discovery U.S. Hispanic 2017-2018 Upfront

Discovery U.S. Hispanic’s portfolio of Spanish-language brands will present a programming line-up of real life entertainment genres to nourish its super-fans with the intent of inspiring and informing a growing audience of discerning Latino consumers on their screens of choice.

“Over the past two decades, we’ve become the leader in quality, Spanish-language real-life entertainment by carefully curating our content to the needs and interests of our Latino audience,” said David Tardio, vice president of advertising sales, Discovery U.S. Hispanic. “The newly-added programs and introduction of premium home and food series will not only bring more exciting content to our viewers, but will also open the doors to more innovative opportunities for clients seeking to connect with Hispanic audiences.”

Discovery en Español, which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary, will build on its most popular genres of automotive, adventure, natural history and investigation, as well as expand avenues for marketers to reach Latino consumers on all platforms, including linear, digital, mobile, social and virtual reality media. Some of the notable series and specials include: Clandestino, Mexicánicos Season 6, SPEEDSHOPmx, Los Hines, Profesión peligro, Rugido vivo and Tras la tumba de Anjesenamon.

Discovery Familia will continue to feature programming dedicated to Hispanic women and the things that matter to them, including the kid-favorite Discovery Kids block. It will also premiere popular and successful home renovation and food competition programs such as Fixer Upper, Flip or Flop, House Hunters, Eliminado and Derrota a Bobby Flay, which will air for the first time ever in Spanish-language for our U.S. Hispanic audience. It will also offer original content featuring Latin American personalities, such as Locos X el Asado and Un nuevo espacio.

In addition, the GO apps for both Hispanic networks have gained traction since their launch last year, more than doubling its users and increasing video views by 730 percent. According to Nielsen* both networks have also seen a year-over-year increase in viewership by women ages 25-54, with 27 percent more women watching Discovery en Español and 11 percent more viewing Discovery Familia.  Discovery en Español also retains its #2 non-sports PayTV network rank in prime time for 10 years running.

This upfront season Discovery U.S. Hispanic is creating more branded content opportunities for marketers. As part of its offering, Discovery en Español will present the following titles: Héroes al rescate, featuring Latino first responders, SPEEDSHOPmx, a classic-car customization show and a new season of Desafío x 2, the network’s successful adventure series. Discovery Familia will feature Un nuevo espacio, featuring Latina designers ready to tackle design project while growing their business. In addition, advertisers targeting auto enthusiasts will be able to create branded content through TEN (MotorTrend en Español and Lowrider) and those looking to connect with Latino millennials can do so via Group Nine’s Spanish-language brands El Dodo and NowHola.

 “Discovery U.S. Hispanic is unique in that we are the only real-life entertainment media company to offer advertisers the ability to connect with the full spectrum of Hispanic viewers in English and Spanish,” remarked David Tardio. “This year we’re even better positioned to capture renewed interest from advertisers who have tried unsuccessfully to connect with Hispanic viewers via English-language buys only over the past two years.”

DISCOVERY U.S. HISPANIC 2018-19 PROGRAMMING

Discovery en Español

  • Branded Content
    • Héroes al rescate (Latino First Responders) (WT)
      This fast-paced documentary series profiles Hispanic men and women who are the front lines as they perform their daily duties to serve and protect the public. Héroes al rescate follows a group of firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and police officers as they manage a variety of emergency situations. Cameras will follow these real-life heroes around the clock, from daring rescues to off-duty hours, giving viewers a behind the scenes look at their jobs and its effect on their personal lives. Get to know these brave first responders, some of whom are military veterans, who make personal sacrifices every day in an effort to save lives.
    • SPEEDSHOPmx (WT)
      Zaky Ibrahim became passionate about cars as a child in part inspired by his toy car collection. He modified his first car at the age of 17 and today he manages the wildly successful ‘Speedshopmx’ in Mexico City, bringing together the very best in the business to customize and personalize classic American cars.
    • Desafío x 2 (Dual Survival)
      Adventurers don’t let fear or the unknown hold them down. In this docu-reality series, a young Hispanic survival expert and influencer travels the United States taking on the country’s most dangerous terrains with the help of a young local guide. Swamps, staggering heights, strong river currents, and arid deserts. No place is off-limits for this road trip adventure that will inspire others to set off and explore their country.
  • New Series
    • Rugido vivo – (Taken by the Tiger) (WT)
      This documentary travels to remote areas in Asia where tigers still roam freely. Directed by Academy® Award-winners Fisher Stevens (“The Cove”) and Ross Kauffman (“Born into Brothels”), the film highlights the sheer splendor of these fierce felines in the wild, embedding with the heroes saving these tigers from extinction, chronicling the work the work of those striving every day for their protection. Debuting in early 2019, the special is tied to Discovery’s Project C.A.T. initiative, part of a global effort to double the population of tigers living in the wild by 2022.
    • Billonario encubierto – (Undercover Billionaire) (WT)
      Financial success is the ultimate American Dream. In this all-new series, Discovery will tap the expertise of a self-made mogul to see whether it’s possible to create a million-dollar company in just 90 days with just a few dollars in his pocket. The true identity of the billionaire will remain anonymous to everyone around him as he attempts to integrate into this remote community with little means and resources. If he’s successful, at the end of the 90 days, he’ll turn over the company he built to the people who helped him out along the way. And once and for all, reveal his true identity.
    • Los Hines – (Book of Hines) (WT)
      Former covert military man and intelligence officer Brett Hines and his family transition from living under the modern trappings of life in America to forming their own way of life. The Hines live off-grid using survival and security techniques Brett honed in the military. Distrusting of our modern way of life, the Hines are now two years in, and at the make or break point. The new series documents their journey (including footage they have self-shot over the years) and provides a roadmap for the rest of us to a life out of society.
    • Tras la tumba de Anjesenamon – (Valley of the Kings) (WT)
      This documentary goes exclusively inside the first major excavation in a generation, in Egypt’s famed burial ground of the pharaohs, looking for one thing – the lost tomb of an ancient royal. Led by renowned Archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass, the crew of more than one hundred Egyptian workers are digging in the largely untouched western portion of the valley, where leading archaeologists believe several royal tombs lie hidden. Using cutting edge technology, the series the search for the secrets buried in the sand.
    • Profesión peligro – (Hard to Kill) (WT)
      Special Forces Sniper and fearless Green Beret, Tim Kennedy travels the country as he puts the spotlight on America’s toughest workers by risking his own life and attempting some of America’s most dangerous jobs. Whether he’s testing his skills as a test pilot or part of a mountain rescue team, Tim works with experts in each field to learn some of today’s most dangerous jobs. At the end of each training, Tim will put the skills he learned to the test to see if he truly has what it takes to accomplish the jobs of everyday heroes.
    • Cambio de marcha con Aaron Kaufman – (Shifting Gears with Aaron Kaufman)
      This new show delves beneath the skin of some of the most advanced machines on the planet. We visit international motor shows for the newest releases and concept vehicles; uncover new advances in technology developed both in the laboratory and on the race track; keep up to date in the race for alternative fuels, improved safety, satellite navigation, in-car entertainment and multi-media connectivity; and look ahead to the designs and trends of the future.
  • Returning Series
    • Clandestino
      Renowned Spanish journalist David Beriain travels around the world to visit conflict zones and gain the trust of some of the most controversial characters and investigates undercover phenomena occurring in the word today.
    • Mexicánicos
      The top-rated series returns to Discovery en Español with new restorations and exclusive creations by the talented mechanic Martín Vaca. Whether it’s repairing, transforming or building a brand-new limousine, hearse or hot rod in his Guadalajara workshop, no project is too big for this authority on motor vehicles.
    • Texas Metal
      The network’s highest-rated series returns for more metal miracles from the incredibly talented, visionary team at Ekstensive Metal Works in Houston. For more than two decades owner Bill Carlton and team have built a reputation for giving customers exactly what they want. Whether it’s tricked-out trucks with wild hydraulics or facelifts for classic muscle cars, Ekstensive Metal Works does restorations, rebuilds, metal work, paint, interior or accessories bigger and better.
    • Detalles de un crimen (Deadline: Crime with Tamron Hall)
      The Today Show host and MSNBC news anchor Tamron Hall walks viewers step by step through a series of riveting and heart wrenching murder investigations in this news magazine show. With her up-close-and-personal style, and strong investigative background, Tamron challenges expectations, interviews those most deeply affected, and visits the scene of the crime to find out what really happened and why.
    • Caso criminal (On The Case with Paula Zahn)
      Led by Emmy- Award journalist Paula Zahn, CASO CRIMINAL features in-depth interviews and original reporting that go beyond the headlines in search of fascinating mysteries within our nations’ justice system. Each episode is highlighted by Zahn’s riveting exclusive interviews, which draw out different viewpoints from the people connected to tragedies that rocked their local community and the investigations that attempted to piece together the truth on CASO CRIMINAL.
    • Vidas remotas (Homestead Rescue)
      For the hundreds of families who decide to move entirely off-grid, the learning curve is a steep one. Even the most resourceful and determined families often succumb to their first winter, monsoon or drought season. In a last effort to save their homesteads, these families call in survival experts to prepare them for nature’s worst and force the ultimate decision: stay to tough out their first year, or pack it up and go back to civilization.

Specials:

    • Semana del tiburón (Shark week)
      The most anticipated summer event returns to Discovery en Español with new shark programming. Semana del Tiburón has long been a pop culture juggernaut, giving online and social media even more bite each time, and it shows no signs of slowing down!
    • Nasa: mas allá del infinito (Above and Beyond: NASA’s Journey to Tomorrow) (WT)
      Humankind has come to lead the planet in large part thanks to its insatiable curiosity and remarkable ability to wonder. This “need to know” lies deep within our DNA, as we seek to answer the biggest questions: Where did we come from? Where are we going? Are we alone? That quest to understand has led us to make incredible discoveries and achieve extraordinary advances. As this historic institution celebrates its 60th anniversary, Discovery once again shines a spotlight on NASA and the vital role it has to play moving forward into the coming decades.
    • El caso de Natalie Woods (An American Murder Mystery: Natalie Woods)
      Cases ripped from the headlines that captivated our nation, this anthology follows experts as they reexamine evidence from the most baffling and infuriating cases of all time, using the latest technology, insights from specialists who have studied the cases for years, and interviews with new and old key players.
    • Manson: la leyenda de un culto (Manson: The Lost Tapes) (WT)
      Using a treasure trove of extraordinary, intimate, and shocking footage of the Manson Family shot at their ranches and never-before-seen on TV, this unique, premium documentary project tells the exclusive inside story of the world’s most infamous cult in the run up to the fiftieth anniversary of the slayings that shocked the world.

Discovery Familia

  • Branded Content
    • Un nuevo espacio (WT)
      Nothing is impossible for these Latina designers and entrepreneurs who would do anything to make their clients happy while growing their business! They are strong, passionate and fully dedicated to delivering the very best in interior design, whether they are redecorating a room, designing an office or creating a new space in a school. While utilizing a small renovation budget and a large amount of imagination, the designers and clients work together to complete each makeover. This series will also explore how they manage and market their business and ultimately get the job done for their clients.
  • New Series
    • Flip or Flop
      Flipping team Tarek and Christina have viewers on the edge of their seats as they purchase dilapidated properties for cash, sometimes sight unseen, and then renovate and flip them for resale. From the nail-biting purchase at auction, to the sometimes-exasperating renovations, discouraging showings and exhilarating sale, will they Flip or Flop.
    • Fixer Upper
      Chip and Joanna Gaines help homebuyers in Waco, Texas, look past the superficial and buy the worst house in the best neighborhood. With his expertise in construction and her keen design sense, Chip and Jo transform potential-rich houses into their clients’ dream homes.
    • Chopped: Eliminado (Chopped)
      Chopped is a cooking competition that’s all about skill, speed and ingenuity, where four up-and-coming chefs compete before a panel of three expert judges. Course by course, the chefs must take a basket of mystery ingredients and turn it into an extraordinary meal. Then, they must survive the Chopping Block, where the judges are waiting to be wowed and are not shy about voicing their culinary criticisms! Host Ted Allen leads the high-energy, high-pressure competition, and in the end, only one chef will make the cut and win $10,000.
    • Cutthroat Kitchen
      Just how far is a chef willing to go to win a cooking competition? Cutthroat Kitchen hands four chefs $25,000 and the opportunity to spend that money on helping themselves or sabotaging their competitors. Ingredients will be thieved, utensils destroyed and valuable time on the clock lost when these chefs compete to cook delicious dishes while also having to out-plot the competition. With Alton Brown as the devilish provocateur, nothing is out of bounds when money changes hands and we see just how far one chef will go to ensure they have the winning dish.
    • Beat Bobby Flay
      To Beat Bobby Flay, you’re going to have to get to him first! In this competition series, two talented chefs go head-to-head for the chance to put their culinary skills to the test against Bobby Flay. The winner moves on to the ultimate battle — facing off against Bobby Flay — but not without an advantage: our challenger chooses the dish they will both be judged on. Can Bobby come up with the winning dish with no time to prepare? In this competition, the challenger may get to call the dish, but it’s anyone’s game. Could you Beat Bobby Flay?
    • Guy’s Grocery Games
      Guy Fieri sends four talented chefs running through the aisles in a high-stakes, high skills, grocery store cooking competition. The chefs are hit by real-world challenges like finding workarounds when all the essential ingredients are suddenly “out-of-stock” or having to create a masterpiece when you can only cook with “5 items or less” or on a $10 budget. In the end, the food does the talking, as the last chef standing has the chance to make some serious dough!
    • House Hunters, House Hunters International and Tiny House Hunters
      These series take viewers behind the scenes as individuals, couples and families learn what to look for and decide if a home is meant for them. Focusing on the emotional experience of finding and purchasing a new home, each episode shows the process as buyers search for a house whether it’s in their home town, across the globe or looking to downsize their living space.
    • Locos X el Asado
      Locos X el Asado is dedicated to the Asado, Argentina’s world famous traditional barbecue. Hosted by “El Laucha” and his friends, the show takes place in a homie space covered with local flavors while they prepare extraordinary asados, show a variety of cooking techniques, and tell us everything about the different meat cuts, sauces, and secret tricks. The new series also takes on a tour of Buenos Aires and its surroundings, and introduces unique characters that will inspire the audience to make different kinds of barbecue.
  • Returning Series
    • Casados por diseño (Nate and Jeremiah)
      The show follows the couple inside and outside of the home, as they juggle married life and raising their daughter while helping distressed homeowners turn a disaster into a dream home.
    • Cake Boss
      Buddy Valastro, one of the most successful cake artists in the U.S, is back with a new season in which he prepares elaborate themed cakes for various occasions along with his team at Carlo’s Bakery in New Jersey.
    • Vestido de novia (Say Yes to the Dress)
      The SYTTD team bend over backward to make each bride’s experience unforgettable, part bridal story, part fashion makeover and part family therapy session, each episode looks at the personalities and craftsmanship that come into play as the staff goes to extreme lengths to make each bride’s dream come true.
    • Los Busby (Outdaughtered)
      Danielle and Adam Busby may have thought year one of raising quintuplet baby girls was rough! But now that the little ladies are older, life in the Busby household has become more chaotic than ever!

About Discovery U.S. Hispanic
Discovery U.S. Hispanic, a division of Discovery Communications the world’s #1 pay-TV programmer, is comprised of Discovery en Español and Discovery Familia, two networks for Spanish-speaking audiences in the United States. Discovery en Español connects viewers to the world and all its wonder and possibilities through quality programming focusing on bold storytelling across core genres including adventure, ingenuity, natural, history, investigation and current affairs. Discovery Familia is dedicated to Hispanic women and what matters in their lives. During the day the network broadcast a Discovery Kids block, which provides a safe environment for children aged 2-6 with entertaining, curriculum-based programming. In the evening, the channel offers programming for women, focusing on home décor, food, health, beauty and parenting. Both networks reach audiences across screens on the ”Discovery en Español and Discovery Familia GO”TV Everywhere apps. For more information, please follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/discoveryenespanol and www.facebook.com/discoveryfamilia

*Source: Nielsen, 7p-11p, Weeks 1-13 of 2017 vs. Weeks 1-12 of 2018.

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SOURCE Discovery U.S. Hispanic

Olympusat is Premier Sponsor of the LA Screenings Independents Opening Night Party Featuring Chyno Miranda

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WEST PALM BEACH, Florida, May 7, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Olympusat Inc., one of the largest independent media companies specializing in the ownership, distribution, production and technical services of Spanish and English-language networks, announced that it is the Premier Sponsor of a live performance by the internationally-known Latino superstar Chyno Miranda at the Opening Night Party of LA Screenings Independents 2018.

To kick-off the event, Olympusat will welcome TV and media professionals to a night of dance, music and entertainment, featuring an exciting live performance from one of the most recognizable and celebrated stars of the Hispanic music industry, Chyno Miranda. The LA Screenings Independents Opening Night Party will take place on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm in the Salon Ballroom at The InterContinental Hotel in Century City.

“We are delighted to take part in the opening night festivities at this year’s LA Screenings Independents. We have created a great event featuring tropical music, appetizers and refreshments for the enjoyment of some most influential names in the TV and media industry,” stated Carlos Lopez, VP of Marketing and Communications at Olympusat. “The Opening Night Party will be a must-attend event, not only for the networking opportunities, but for the world-class performance of Chyno Miranda.”

Critically-acclaimed throughout his career, Chyno Miranda has received multiple accolades as part of the duo Chino y Nacho, including one Latin Grammy, the Antorcha de Oro and Antorcha de Plata at the Viña del Mar Music Festival, four Billboard awards, five Premios Lo Nuestro, two Premios Tu Mundo, among other recognitions at Premios Juventud, Premios Heat and the BMI Latin Awards.

Now, as a solo artist, Chyno Miranda has conquered the top of the charts, offering an original repertoire that includes international hits, such as Tú Me Elevas¸ Bailar Contigo ft. 3BALLMTY & El Jova, and Vamo’ A La Calle Remix ft. Carlos Baute. His single Quédate Conmigo ft. Wisin and Gente de Zona, has over 72 million hits on YouTube, topping the popularity charts in multiple Latin American countries a week after its release.

LA Screenings Independents 2018 is produced in association with NATPE.

To learn more about Olympusat’s industry-leading efforts, please visit olympusat.com.

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

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SOURCE Olympusat, Inc.

The Regional Hispanic Contractors Association Appoints Jackie Lee of Taylor Construction Management to their Board of Directors

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DALLAS, May 8, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Regional Hispanic Contractors Association (RHCA) has announced Jackie Lee, North Texas Regional Operations Manager of Taylor Construction Management (TCM), as a member of their 2018-2020 Board Officers and Directors. Lee will be recognized at the Inauguration Ceremony and Reception on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at The Latino Cultural Center (2600 Live Oak St., Dallas, Texas 75204).

During her tenure with TCM, Jackie has helped the Dallas market evolve through her dedication to the company and the various projects she has secured in the North Texas Region. Jackie manages over $300M in the education industry across North Texas with projects in higher education that range in complexity like the Dallas Agrilife Center in Richardson, Texas, and the Dental Educational Clinical Facility in Downtown Dallas, Texas, with Texas A&M University System.

“At TCM, Jackie Lee is an invaluable member of our team who constantly pushes the envelope so that we can foster better relationships with clients and achieve greater success,” said Kelley Taylor, CEO and Co-Founder of TCM. “We can’t wait to see how she draws upon these same strengths to grow the RHCA and further their purpose in her new board position.”

She utilizes these same qualities in her advocacy with the RHCA to serve as a resource for the community and address the financial and legal needs of Hispanic Contractors. In March, she celebrated her one-year membership with the organization and will continue to assist their Business Development Committee.

RHCA advocates for Hispanic Contractors in business and political spheres, while also engaging in community outreach. Their interventions have been instrumental to establishing fairness around bid awarding.

“This role is a commitment I embrace wholeheartedly alongside my strategic growth and operations responsibilities at TCM, especially considering how important it is that more women become visible in leadership positions,” said Lee.

A Dallas local, Jackie also mentors young women at the nonprofit Girls Inc. by sharing lessons learned from over 10 years as an industry leader. Jackie believes success depends primarily on the individual’s commitment to make it happen.

More information on Jackie Lee or Taylor Construction Management can be found at www.tcm-llc.com.

Media Contact:
Ashley Small
[email protected]
281-827-3419

SOURCE Taylor Construction Management

National Hispanic Medical Association partners with the All of Us Research Program to advance precision medicine

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All of Us Research Program: The Precision Medicine Initiative

Enrollment set to open nationwide for historic research effort

WASHINGTON, May 7, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — On May 6, the National Institutes of Health will open national enrollment for the All of Us Research Program—a momentous effort to advance individualized prevention, treatment and care for people of all backgrounds—in collaboration with National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) and other partners. People ages 18 and older, regardless of health status, will be eligible to enroll. The official launch date will be marked by community events in cities across the country as well as an online event. The overall aim is to enroll 1 million or more volunteers and oversample communities that have been underrepresented in research to make the program the largest, most diverse resource of its kind.

All of Us Research Program: The Precision Medicine Initiative

“The time is now to transform how we conduct research—with participants as partners—to shed new light on how to stay healthy and manage disease in more personalized ways. This is what we can accomplish through All of Us,” said NIH Director Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D.

Precision medicine is an emerging approach to disease treatment and prevention that considers differences in people’s lifestyles, environments and biological makeup, including genes. By partnering with 1 million diverse people who share information about themselves over many years, the All of Us Research Program will enable research to more precisely prevent and treat a variety of health conditions.

“Given that by 2042, one out of four people living in our nation will be Latino, NHMA has joined as a partner to encourage the Latino community to join the All of Us Research Program,”  said NHMA president and CEO Elena Rios, MD, MSPH, FACP. “Their participation will provide information on how to better develop health care prevention and treatment programs for generations to come.”

All of Us seeks to transform the relationship between researchers and participants, bringing them together as partners to inform the program’s directions, goals and responsible return of research information. Participants will be able to access their own health information, summary data about the entire participant community and information about studies and findings that come from All of Us.  

Participants are asked to share different types of health and lifestyle information, through online surveys and electronic health records (EHRs), which will continue to be collected over the course of the program. At different times over the coming months and years, some participants will be asked to visit a local partner site to provide blood and urine samples and to have basic physical measurements taken, such as height and weight, to ensure that the program gathers information from all types of people. This program is especially focused on those who have been underrepresented in research, but not everyone will be asked to give physical measures and samples. In the future, participants may be invited to share data through wearable devices and to join follow-up research studies, including clinical trials.

Also, in future phases of the program, children will be able to enroll, and the program will add more data types, such as genetic data. In addition, data from the program will be broadly accessible for research purposes. Ultimately, the All of Us Research program will be a rich and open data resource for traditional academic researchers as well as citizen scientists—and everyone in between.

People also may take part in social media activities (#JoinAllofUs) or tune in on May 6 at https://Launch.JoinAllofUs.org to watch speakers across the country talk about precision medicine and the power of volunteering for research.

To learn more about the program and how to join, please visit https://www.JoinAllofUs.org.

“All of Us” is a registered service mark of the U.S. Department of Health & Services (HHS).

NHMA is a nonprofit association representing the interests of 50,000 Hispanic physicians with the mission to improve the health of Hispanics in the U.S.  For more information, please visit www.NHMAmd.org

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/686705/NHMA_All_of_Us_English_Logo.jpg

 

SOURCE National Hispanic Medical Association

HITN Relaunches Its Corporate Website

0
HITN Logo (PRNewsfoto/HITN)

BROOKLYN, New York, May 7, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — HITN, the leading Spanish-language network that offers educational and entertainment content to more than 44 million households across the United States, announced the relaunch of its corporate website, www.HITN.org, in Spanish and in English. The new site is part of improvements to HITN’s digital strategy and brings Hispanic audiences new functionalities and interactive sections accessible via an integrated platform.

HITN Logo (PRNewsfoto/HITN)

“The relaunch of HITN’s corporate website is in line with the digital transformation and modernization of our network,” explained Michael D. Nieves, CEO and President of HITN. “The new site allows us to better serve the Hispanic community while emphasizing the important work we are doing alongside our partners and sponsors.”

“The redesign of HITN’s corporate site presents a unified image of all areas of our company, allowing audiences to become more familiar with the different services and tools we offer to improve the quality of life of Hispanic audiences in the United States,” said Maximiliano Vaccaro, the network’s Director de Digital Services. “The new site is fast and easy for users to navigate on mobile devices, making it simple for them to enjoy their favorite content and share their opinions on social media.”

Among the characteristics of HITN‘s new corporate site is a contemporary look and feel that integrates all of the company’s digital properties, along with attractive elements that invite users to enjoy smoother navigation while accessing information more quickly.

Also featured is a new corporate history section, accessible through the ‘About Us’ heading, that features a timeline of HITN’s more than three decades of service to the community.

The new site also offers direct access to HITN Wireless, a service that provides Internet connectivity to organizations and schools anywhere in the country.  It also lets visitors link to the network’s social media pages and look up HITN‘s channel number on different operators’ grids. Finally, visitors can consult bios and other information about top HITN executives.

For more information about HITN TV’s interactive website, please visit: www.hitn.org

ABOUT HITN

HITN-TV is a leading Spanish-language media company that offers educational and cultural programming for the whole family.  It reaches more than 44 million viewers in the US and Puerto Rico via DIRECTV, DISH Network, AT&T U-verse TV, Verizon FiOS TV, Comcast, Charter Spectrum, Frontier Mediacom, CenturyLink Prism and Cablevision.  For more information, please visit www.hitn.org.

Logo- https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/613816/HITN_Logo.jpg

SOURCE HITN

Castroneves, Taylor Lead Acura Sweep at Mid-Ohio

0
Helio Castroneves and Ricky Taylor combined to take their Acura ARX-05 to a commanding IMSA sports car victory Sunday at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

LEXINGTON, Ohio, May 7, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Acura Team Penske completed a nearly perfect weekend for the manufacturer as major sports car racing returned to the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, with Helio Castroneves and Ricky Taylor heading a 1-2 result at Sunday’s Acura Sports Car Challenge at Mid-Ohio.

Helio Castroneves and Ricky Taylor combined to take their Acura ARX-05 to a commanding IMSA sports car victory Sunday at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

In GTD, Alvaro Parente and Katherine Legge combined for a thrilling second-place result, finishing just 0.191 seconds away from a double win for Acura at the end of the two-hour, 40-minute contest.

Acura Team Penske Prototype
In a weekend-long command performance, the pair of Acura Team Penske prototypes ran 1-2 in every practice session, qualified first and second, and led the way from start to finish.  Castroneves and Taylor were at the point throughout, while teammates Juan Pablo Montoya and Dane Cameron fought off an early-race challenge from the pair of Mazda prototypes to maintain second.

In the final 30 minutes, Castroneves and Taylor pulled away from the field, finishing a comfortable 8.4 seconds ahead of their teammates to go into the record books as the first winners with the new Acura ARX-05 prototype.  In addition, Taylor became the 50th different driver to win a race for Team Penske. 

Running second, Montoya and Cameron pulled another 26 seconds clear of the prototype field in a dominating result for Acura, completing the 1-2 sweep in front of an enthusiastic crowd that included Honda and Acura associates from the company’s several facilities in central Ohio.

Meyer Shank Racing GTD
In GTD, the #86 Acura NSX GT3 of Katherine Legge gained one position, to third, in the opening lap and remained in the thick of the battle for the class victory before handing over to co-driver Alvaro Parente.  Pit strategy from the Meyer Shank Racing team moved Parente to second after the final round of pit stops, and in the closing laps he chased down the leader, but came up just short of a double-class win for Acura at the checkers.

The second podium finish in three races for Parente and Legge moves them to second in the GTD Drivers’ Championship standings, and Acura to second in the GTD Manufacturers’ Championship with eight races remaining.

In the #93 MSR NSX GT3, Justin Marks moved from his sixth starting position to fifth, with co-driver Lawson Aschenbach moving up to fourth with just over an hour remaining.  Although balance issues cost them a position on the final lap, Aschenbach held on to finish fifth in GTD.

Next
The Motor City of Detroit is the next stop in the 2018 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, for the Detroit Grand Prix Presented by Lear.  The 100-minute contest, shortest on the 11-race schedule, takes place June 2 on the tight and bumpy Belle Isle Park temporary street circuit, with live television coverage on the Fox Sports 2 network.

Video recaps from this weekend’s Acura Motorsports activities at Mid-Ohio are being posted on the “Honda Racing/HPD” YouTube channel.  Produced by the Carolinas Production Group, the video packages can be found in the 2018 HPD Trackside Video Playlist at: https://www.youtube.com/HondaRacingHPDTV.

Quotes
Steve Eriksen (Vice President and COO, Honda Performance Development) on today’s inaugural victory for the Acura ARX-05 and 1-2 finish at the Acura Sports Car Challenge of Mid-Ohio: “Mid-Ohio is our second ‘home’, with all of our nearby facilities and thousands of associates.  So it is especially gratifying to take our first win in the Acura ARX-05 here.  Our NSX GT3 program did not disappoint either, as the Meyer Shank Racing #86 waged an exciting battle all the way to the checkers, coupled with a strong run for the #93 car.  Congratulations to all of our associates at HPD, Acura Team Penske and Meyer Shank Racing on an almost perfect weekend.”

Ricky Taylor (driver, #7 Acura Team Penske ARX-05) race winner, 50th driver to win a major race for Team Penske: “I’m driving with one of the best organizations in the world, and one of the best manufacturers in the world.  We visited Acura’s factory for the NSX on Thursday and really got to see all that goes into these beautiful cars, and it really gives you a good sense of pride.  On top of that, to win for the first time back for Mr. [Roger] Penske is outstanding and to start the month of May off for Helio [Castroneves] with a win is awesome.  There was so much pressure to get the car from him in the lead.  He did an awesome job, so I had to fight to make his efforts worth it.”

Katherine Legge (driver, #86 Meyer Shank Racing Acura NSX GT3) finished second in GTD, second podium finish in three races, moves to second in the GTD Drivers’ Championship: “This feels pretty good.  We’ve really made very few mistakes all year and maximized every opportunity that has come our way.  The team has done a fantastic job preparing the car and in the pits, and [co-driver] Alvaro [Parente] is a top-class driver.  We have a lot of ‘fight’ in us.  This is the home race for both Meyer Shank Racing and for Acura, and we were all fighting hard all race long.  I’m very proud of the whole team.”

IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship Acura Sports Car Challenge at Mid-Ohio
Circuit:           Mid-Ohio SportsCar Course (2.258-mile road course) Lexington, Ohio
Weather:        Mostly sunny, mild, 72 degrees F

 

Top-6 Prototype Results:

Ps.

Class

Drivers

Team

Chassis

Laps/Notes           

1.

Prototype

Helio Castroneves / Ricky Taylor

Acura Team Penske

Acura ARX-05

125 laps

2.

Prototype

Dane Cameron/Juan Pablo Montoya

Acura Team Penske

Acura ARX-05 

+8.464 seconds

3.

Prototype

Oliver Jarvis/Tristan Nunez

Mazda Team Joest

Mazda RT24-P

125 laps

4.

Prototype

Joao Barbosa / Filipe Albuquerque

Action Express

Cadillac DPi VR 

125 laps

5.

Prototype

Renger Van Der Zande/Jordan Taylor

Wayne Taylor Racing

Cadillac DPi VR    

125 laps

6.

Prototype

Sebastian Saavedra/Gustavo Yacaman

AFS/PR1 Motorsports

Ligier Gibson

125 laps 

Top-6 GTD Results:

Ps.

Class

Drivers

Team

Chassis

Laps/Notes

1.

GTD

Kyle Marcelli / Dominik Baumann

3 GT Racing

Lexus RC F GT3

116 laps

2.

GTD

Katherine Legge / Alvaro Parente

Meyer Shank Racing

Acura NSX GT3

+0.191 seconds

3.

GTD

Madison Snow / Bryan Sellers

Paul Miller Racing 

Lamborghini Huracan

116 laps

4.

GTD 

Jack Hawksworth / David H. Hansson

3 GT Racing

Lexus RC F GT3 

116 laps

5.

GTD

Justin Marks / Lawson Aschenbach

Meyer Shank Racing

Acura NSX GT3

116 laps

6.

GTD

Dillon Machavern / Bill Auberlen 

Turner Motorsports

BMW M6 GT3

116 laps

 

Honda Racing HPD Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Honda Performance Development, Inc.) (PRNewsFoto/HONDA PERFORMANCE DEVELOP...)

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/687491/Mid_Ohio_Sports_Car_Course.jpg

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/83597/honda_performance_development__inc__honda_racing_logo.jpg

SOURCE Acura Motorsports

American Honda Celebrates its Racing Spirit with #MayMotorsports Month

0
American Honda Celebrates its Racing Spirit with #MayMotorsports Month

TORRANCE, California, May 4, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — May is a magical month for motorsports, headlined by iconic events including the Indianapolis 500 and Formula 1’s Monaco Grand Prix. To celebrate the racing world’s biggest month and Honda’s own storied racing legacy, American Honda is launching a month-long social media campaign touting its past, present and future in motorsports through #MayMotorsports. The campaign will feature exclusive online content that will take fans behind the scenes both on and off the track.

American Honda Celebrates its Racing Spirit with #MayMotorsports Month

With perhaps the most expansive and diverse racing portfolio in all the automotive world, American Honda is participating in multiple racing series in May, from grassroots racing to pinnacle events like the IMSA Acura Sports Car Challenge at Mid-Ohio and SCORE Baja 500. Racing fans can follow all of the #MayMotorsports action across Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter, and engage with exclusive racing content including archival racing footage, video of the competition on the track and behind the scenes, images of classic races and GIFs. Additionally, Honda will tap race team members and racing fans to share their passion for racing throughout May via their social channels.

Acura Racing

Acura has been active in professional motorsports for 30 of the last 32 years. Both the Acura NSX GT3 and ARX-05 Daytona Prototype will compete in the IMSA Acura Sports Car Challenge, May 4-6 at Mid-Ohio, coming off a successful run in last month’s Bubba Burger Sports Car Grand Prix in Long Beach, where Team Penske took the pole and carded a top-six finish. Racing fans can also drive the NSX GT3 themselves, as Acura put the vehicle on-sale last year.

To celebrate #MayMotorsports, Acura will be releasing a series of videos that trace the brand’s journey as a pioneering force in racing. The first episode airs this week, prior to the Mid-Ohio race and explores the roots of Acura racing and the events that led Acura into the racing world in 1987. Fans can view the first episode here, acura.us/MayMotorsports.

Throughout the month, additional episodes will delve into the world of Acura’s race teams, sharing never-before-seen Acura racing footage captured over the years at Pikes Peak, Sebring, Daytona and other events. The video series conclude with a focus on Acura’s return to the world of high-performance endurance racing with the Acura ARX-05 piloted by Team Penske.

Honda Racing

Honda is gearing up for a full month of competition, including the 102nd running of the Indianapolis 500, where Honda will look to earn its third straight victory and further cement its title as the winningest automaker of all time at the Greatest Spectacle of Racing. Indianapolis 500 testing began in late April, and Honda-powered IndyCar racing teams set to compete in the 2018 Indianapolis 500 include Andretti Autosport, winner of three of the past four ‘500s’; Chip Ganassi Racing, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, Schmidt Peterson Motorsports, Dale Coyne Racing and Michael Shank Racing.

To kick start #MayMotorsports, the Honda brand is debuting the 2018 version of “Racing at Heart”: https://honda.us/MayMotorsports, which links Honda’s diverse, high-performance motorsports program to its production vehicles. The video highlights Honda racing programs – including the Verizon IndyCar Series, Rally America and SCORE desert truck racing – demonstrating how the brand’s deep roots in competition inspire the engineering of the Honda vehicles available to its customers. Visitors to Honda’s social pages will see posts on the brand’s historical involvement, including Rally America, the Indianapolis 500, and the Baja 500.

Race

Location

Date

IndyCar Grand Prix, Indianapolis

Indianapolis Motor Speedway (road course)

May 12

Formula 4

Road Atlanta

May 13

IndyCar, Indy 500 Qualifying Round 1

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

May 19

IndyCar, Indy 500 Qualifying Round 2

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

May 20

Pirelli World Challenge

Canadian Tire Motorsports Park, Ontario, Canada

May 20

IndyCar, Indianapolis 500

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

May 27

Pirelli World Challenge

Lime Rock Park, CT

May 27

Baja 500 (Qualifying)

Baja California, Mexico

May 30

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

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for more than 35 years and currently operates 19 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2017, 93% of all Honda and Acura vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

About Acura
Acura is a leading automotive luxury nameplate that delivers Precision Crafted Performance, representing the original values of the Acura brand – a commitment to evocative styling, high performance and innovative engineering, all built on a foundation of 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 5-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 as a new and pinnacle expression of Acura Precision Crafted Performance.

Honda Logo.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/687254/American_Honda_Motor_Co_MayMotorsports_Month.jpg 
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/477245/HONDALOGO_Logo.jpg

SOURCE American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Live Nation Entertainment Reports First Quarter 2018 Financial Results

0

LOS ANGELES, May 3, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ —

Highlights (year-over-year):

  • Revenue Up 19% for the Quarter to $1.5 Billion
  • Operating Income Improves for the Quarter to $(6) Million
  • Adjusted Operating Income Up 24% for the Quarter to $114 Million
  • Event-Related Deferred Revenue Up 12% to $1.8 Billion as of March 31
  • Concert Tickets Sold for 2018 Shows Over 50 Million, Up 5% through April
  • Sponsorship & Advertising Committed Net Revenue Up 11% through April
  • Ticketmaster Fee-Bearing GTV Up 21% through April

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) today released financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

2018 is off to a great start, even better than expected when we had our full year earnings call in February.  The first quarter outperformed our projections as we delivered growth in revenue of 19%, operating income of 72%, adjusted operating income (“AOI”) of 24%, operating cash flow of 2%, and free cash flow – adjusted of 76%, with all of our divisions delivering double-digit operating income and AOI growth.

Even more importantly, we have now booked enough concerts, sold enough tickets and have enough sponsorship commitments to be confident that we will have a successful 2018, delivering double-digit operating income and AOI growth for the year.  We continue to benefit from a global concerts industry that is structurally growing, with strong tailwinds for both supply and demand.

Concerts Global Platform Growth

Starting with the concerts business, revenue is up 20%, operating income grew by 16% and AOI improved by 29% as we promoted 22% more shows for 15% more fans globally in the first quarter.  Looking towards the full year, through April, we have booked nearly 5,000 arena, stadium and amphitheater shows, up 21% over this point last year.  This growth is led by our amphitheaters, with show count up 27% to over 2,000 shows — growth that we will now further monetize through on-site fan spending.

At this point, we have even stronger expectations for growth in on-site spending at our amphitheaters than we did a few months ago.  Across the myriad of initiatives we are executing this year — enhancing our VIP offerings, adding points of sale and improving product selection — we now expect our average spend per fan to grow by at least $2.50 this summer.

We also continue to capture more value for the artists and Live Nation through pricing optimization, delivering more of the market value to the artists.  As a result, average ticket pricing is up double digits across each amphitheater, arena and stadium venue type, for tickets sold so far this year.

And while North America is expected to have a strong summer, we continue to see strong performance across the 40 countries around the world in which we promote shows, with tickets sold for international arena shows and festivals up double digits through April.  We are particularly encouraged by our progress in Latin America, with tickets sold for shows in the region more than tripling so far this year.  And, our recently announced acquisition of a stake in Rock in Rio, which will give us a controlling interest starting with the 2019 festival, provides us with a strong foundation for future growth in Latin America.

With our global concerts business looking strong again this year, the concerts segment continues to be the engine that powers the Live Nation flywheel strategy, growing the profitability of the concerts business while also driving our sponsorship and ticketing businesses.

Sponsorship & Advertising Delivered Continued Growth

With revenue up 17%, operating income up 18% and AOI up 17% for the quarter, our sponsorship business continues to demonstrate the value of directly connecting brands with approximately 90 million fans at our concerts this year.

Through April, we are pacing double digits ahead of last year in committed revenue, and have over 80% of our planned revenue for the year committed.  We expect our growth to again be driven by our festivals and large strategic sponsors, and we continue adding a number of new partners, including Frito Lay, Proctor & Gamble and Twitter.  As a result, we currently expect to deliver double-digit operating income and AOI growth in sponsorship & advertising again this year.

Ticketmaster Marketplace Growing

Ticketmaster had a very strong start to the year as well, growing revenue by 19%, operating income by 19% and AOI by 17% for the quarter, as it had its largest quarter in history, transacting almost 60 million tickets for 21% growth in global gross transaction value (“GTV”) to $5 billion.

At its core, Ticketmaster continues to be the most effective ticketing platform in the world, with the technology to serve venues, sports teams and artists, and with the marketplace to attract and convert ticket buyers.  Demonstrating our success, we signed 135 additional clients in the quarter, adding new clients across 19 countries.

Our strategic partnership with the NFL is off to a strong start, with substantial increases in both primary and secondary ticket sales in the few weeks since schedules were released.  And as our pioneer client for digital ticketing, the NFL has eliminated ticket PDFs for next season, positioning the teams to identify a much higher portion of fans attending their games.

Verified Fan, our artist program to help ensure tickets are sold to fans at the onsale, also continues to grow with major onsales including Pearl Jam, Elton John, Thirty Seconds to Mars and 5 Seconds of Summer rolling out campaigns in the first quarter.  We will continue investing in new technologies to further differentiate Ticketmaster from others in the ticketing business.  It is very notable that today we announce our partnership with, and investment in, Blink Identity which has cutting-edge facial recognition technology, enabling you to associate your digital ticket with your image, then just walk into the show.

In addition to building technologies to better serve our venues, sports teams and artist clients, we continue investing to make Ticketmaster an even better marketplace for fans to buy tickets.  To start, we have increased the number of events listed on Ticketmaster, up 16% for the quarter to over 195,000 events.  And along with this, we increased site visits by 9% while lowering our paid cost of acquisition by over 20% through continued marketing improvements.  Once we have customers visit our site, we further improved our conversion rates, particularly on mobile.  Following a redesigned purchase experience on mobile that we rolled out last year, mobile ticket sales are up 36% for the quarter, now accounting for almost 40% of all ticket sales, with conversion rates improved by over 20%.  With this strong start to the year, we expect another record year in ticketing.

Summary

2018 is on track to deliver double-digit operating income and AOI growth along with expected strong gains in revenue, operating cash flow, and free cash flow.  Our key leading indicators for our concerts, sponsorship & advertising and ticketing segments are ahead of last year, and we currently expect each of our businesses to deliver record revenue, operating income, and AOI this year.

Michael Rapino
President and Chief Executive Officer
Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

The company will webcast a teleconference today at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss its financial performance. Interested parties should visit the Events & Webcasts section of the company’s website at investors.livenationentertainment.com to listen to the webcast. Supplemental statistical and financial information to be provided on the call, if any, will be available under the Reports section at the same link. A replay of the webcast will also be available on the Live Nation website.

Notice Regarding Financial Statements

The company has provided certain unaudited financial statements at the end of this press release for reference.  These unaudited financial statements should be read in conjunction with the full unaudited financial statements, and the notes thereto, set forth in the company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission today and available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov.

About Live Nation Entertainment

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship.  For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – 1st QUARTER

(unaudited; $ in millions)

Q1 2018
Reported

Q1 2017
Reported

Growth

Q1 2018
Constant
Currency

Growth at
Constant
Currency

Revenue

Concerts

$

1,038.9

$

863.3

20

%

$

1,003.6

16

%

Sponsorship & Advertising

74.6

64.0

17

%

71.9

12

%

Ticketing

372.4

312.8

19

%

365.8

17

%

Other and Eliminations

(3.5)

2.8

*

(3.5)

*

$

1,482.4

$

1,242.9

19

%

$

1,437.8

16

%

Operating Income (Loss)

Concerts

$

(63.9)

$

(75.8)

16

%

$

(63.0)

17

%

Sponsorship & Advertising

31.1

26.4

18

%

29.1

10

%

Ticketing

64.9

54.5

19

%

66.2

21

%

Other and Eliminations

(3.4)

0.2

*

(3.4)

*

Corporate

(34.7)

(26.7)

(30)

%

(34.7)

(30)

%

$

(6.0)

$

(21.4)

72

%

$

(5.8)

73

%

Adjusted Operating Income (Loss)

Concerts

$

(15.6)

$

(22.1)

29

%

$

(16.7)

24

%

Sponsorship & Advertising

39.0

33.3

17

%

37.0

11

%

Ticketing

120.9

103.1

17

%

121.1

17

%

Other and Eliminations

(4.4)

(0.4)

*

(4.4)

*

Corporate

(26.2)

(21.9)

(20)

%

(26.2)

(20)

%

$

113.7

$

92.0

24

%

$

110.8

20

%

* percentages are not meaningful

 

  • As of March 31, 2018, total cash and cash equivalents were $2.9 billion, which includes $888 million in ticketing client cash and $718 million in free cash.
  • Event-related deferred revenue was $1.8 billion as of March 31, 2018, compared to $1.6 billion as of the same date in 2017.
  • For the quarter ended March 31, 2018, net cash provided by operating activities was $775 million and free cash flow – adjusted was $46 million.
  • We expect capital expenditures for the full year to be approximately $250 million, with approximately 50% to be revenue generating capital expenditures.
  • We currently expect the amortization of nonrecoupable ticketing contract advances for the full year 2018 to be approximately in line with the total amount in 2017.

 

KEY OPERATING METRICS

Q1 2018

Q1 2017

(in thousands except estimated events)

Concerts (1)

Events:

North America

4,867

3,748

International

2,395

2,208

Total estimated events

7,262

5,956

Fans:

North America

6,823

5,775

International

5,680

5,125

Total estimated fans

12,503

10,900

Ticketing (2)

Fee-bearing tickets

53,029

49,602

Non-fee-bearing tickets

64,497

67,333

Total estimated tickets

117,526

116,935

(1)

Events generally represent a single performance by an artist. Fans generally represent the number of people who attend an event. Festivals are counted as one event in the quarter in which the festival begins, but the number of fans is based on the days the fans were present at the festival and thus can be reported across multiple quarters. Events and fan attendance metrics are estimated each quarter.

(2)

The fee-bearing tickets estimated above include primary and secondary tickets that are sold using our Ticketmaster systems or that we issue through affiliates. This metric includes primary tickets sold during the period regardless of event timing, except for our own events where our concert promoters control ticketing and which are reported as the events occur. The non-fee-bearing tickets estimated above include primary tickets sold using our Ticketmaster systems, through season seat packages and our venue clients’ box offices, along with tickets sold on our ‘do it yourself’ platform.

Reconciliation of Certain Non-GAAP Measures to Their Most Directly Comparable GAAP Measures (Unaudited)

Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow Adjusted to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

($ in millions)

Q1 2018

Q1 2017

Net cash provided by operating activities

$

775.5

$

761.7

Changes in operating assets and liabilities (working capital)

(691.7)

(698.6)

Free cash flow from earnings

$

83.8

$

63.1

Less: Maintenance capital expenditures

(17.9)

(24.5)

          Distributions to noncontrolling interests

(19.5)

(12.2)

Free cash flow — adjusted

$

46.4

$

26.4

Net cash used in investing activities

$

(88.7)

$

(75.0)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

$

404.2

$

(5.1)

Reconciliation of Free Cash to Cash and Cash Equivalents

($ in millions)

March 31,
 2018

Cash and cash equivalents

$

2,942.4

Client cash

(887.7)

Deferred revenue — event-related

(1,774.7)

Accrued artist fees

(68.9)

Collections on behalf of others

(55.4)

Prepaid expenses — event-related

562.3

   Free cash

$

718.0

Forward-Looking Statements, Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Reconciliations:

Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding anticipated double-digit operating income and adjusted operating income growth for the company in 2018, with expected strong gains in revenue, operating cash flow, and free cash flow, including expected double-digit operating income and adjusted operating income growth in sponsorship & advertising, driven by festivals and large strategic sponsors, as well as expected record revenue, operating income and adjusted operating income in both concerts and ticketing; the company’s strong expectations for growth in on-site spending at its amphitheaters, with average spend per fan expected to grow by at least $2.50 in the summer of 2018; the company’s prospects for future growth in Latin America; the anticipated strength of the company’s global concerts business in 2018; and planned investments in new technologies to further differentiate Ticketmaster from others in the ticketing business.  Live Nation wishes to caution you that there are some known and unknown factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to operational challenges in achieving strategic objectives and executing on the company’s plans, the risk that the company’s markets do not evolve as anticipated, the potential impact of any economic slowdown and operational challenges associated with selling tickets and staging events.

Live Nation refers you to the documents it files from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, specifically the section titled “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of the company’s most recent Annual Report filed on Form 10-K, and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and its Current Reports on Form 8-K, which contain and identify other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the company’s projections or forward-looking statements.  You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date on which they are made.  All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements by or concerning Live Nation are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above.  Live Nation does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements because of new information, future events or otherwise.

This press release contains certain non-GAAP financial measures as defined by SEC Regulation G.  A reconciliation of each such measure to its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, together with an explanation of why management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors, is provided herein.

Adjusted Operating Income (Loss), or AOI, is a non-GAAP financial measure that we define as operating income (loss) before acquisition expenses (including transaction costs, changes in the fair value of acquisition-related contingent consideration obligations, and acquisition-related severance and compensation), depreciation and amortization (including goodwill impairment), amortization of non-recoupable ticketing contract advances, loss (gain) on disposal of operating assets and certain stock-based compensation expense.  We use AOI to evaluate the performance of our operating segments.  We believe that information about AOI assists investors by allowing them to evaluate changes in the operating results of our portfolio of businesses separate from non-operational factors that affect net income (loss), thus providing insights into both operations and the other factors that affect reported results.  AOI is not calculated or presented in accordance with GAAP.  A limitation of the use of AOI as a performance measure is that it does not reflect the periodic costs of certain amortizing assets used in generating revenue in our business.  Accordingly, AOI should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, operating income (loss), net income (loss), and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP.  Furthermore, this measure may vary among other companies; thus, AOI as presented herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

Constant Currency is a non-GAAP financial measure. We calculate currency impacts as the difference between current period activity translated using the current period’s currency exchange rates and the comparable prior period’s currency exchange rates.  We present constant currency information to provide a framework for assessing how our underlying businesses performed excluding the effect of foreign currency rate fluctuations.

Free Cash Flow — Adjusted, or FCF, is a non-GAAP financial measure that the company defines as net cash provided by (used in) operating activities less changes in operating assets and liabilities, less maintenance capital expenditures, less distributions to noncontrolling interest partners. The company uses FCF among other measures, to evaluate the ability of its operations to generate cash that is available for purposes other than maintenance capital expenditures.  The company believes that information about FCF provides investors with an important perspective on the cash available to service debt, make acquisitions, and for revenue generating capital expenditures.  FCF is not calculated or presented in accordance with GAAP.  A limitation of the use of FCF as a performance measure is that it does not necessarily represent funds available for operations and is not necessarily a measure of the company’s ability to fund its cash needs.  Accordingly, FCF should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, net cash provided by (used in) operating activities and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP.  Furthermore, this measure may vary among other companies; thus, FCF as presented herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

Free Cash is a non-GAAP financial measure that the company defines as cash and cash equivalents less ticketing-related client funds, less event-related deferred revenue, less accrued expenses due to artists and cash collected on behalf of others, plus event-related prepaids.  The company uses free cash as a proxy for how much cash it has available to, among other things, optionally repay debt balances, make acquisitions and fund revenue generating capital expenditures.  Free cash is not calculated or presented in accordance with GAAP.  A limitation of the use of free cash as a performance measure is that it does not necessarily represent funds available from operations and it is not necessarily a measure of our ability to fund our cash needs. Accordingly, free cash should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, cash and cash equivalents and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP.  Furthermore, this measure may vary among other companies; thus, free cash as presented herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

Reconciliations of Certain Non-GAAP Measures to Their Most Directly Comparable GAAP Measures (Unaudited)

Reconciliation of Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) to Operating Income (Loss)

($ in millions)

Operating
income
(loss)

Stock-based
compensation
expense

Loss
(gain) on
disposal
of
operating
assets

Depreciation
and

amortization

Amortization of
non-recoupable
ticketing
contract
advances

Acquisition
expenses

Adjusted
operating
income
(loss)
reported

Foreign
exchange
impact

Adjusted
operating
income
(loss)
constant
currency

Three Months Ended March 31, 2018

Concerts

$

(63.9)

$

1.9

$

$

45.6

$

$

0.8

$

(15.6)

$

(1.1)

$

(16.7)

Sponsorship & Advertising

31.1

0.3

7.6

39.0

(2.0)

37.0

Ticketing

64.9

1.1

33.6

21.1

0.2

120.9

0.2

121.1

Other and Eliminations

(3.4)

0.2

(1.2)

(4.4)

(4.4)

Corporate

(34.7)

7.6

0.9

(26.2)

(26.2)

Total Live Nation

$

(6.0)

$

10.9

$

$

87.9

$

19.9

$

1.0

$

113.7

$

(2.9)

$

110.8

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017

Concerts

$

(75.8)

$

2.8

$

(0.7)

$

46.5

$

$

5.1

$

(22.1)

$

$

(22.1)

Sponsorship & Advertising

26.4

0.3

6.6

33.3

33.3

Ticketing

54.5

0.9

26.5

20.8

0.4

103.1

103.1

Other and Eliminations

0.2

0.1

(0.7)

(0.4)

(0.4)

Corporate

(26.7)

3.9

0.9

(21.9)

(21.9)

Total Live Nation

$

(21.4)

$

7.9

$

(0.7)

$

80.6

$

20.1

$

5.5

$

92.0

$

$

92.0

 

LIVE NATION ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(unaudited)

March 31,
 2018

December 31,
 2017

(in thousands)

ASSETS

Current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

$

2,942,407

$

1,825,322

Accounts receivable, less allowance of $31,429 and $32,755, respectively

783,807

725,304

Prepaid expenses

867,936

546,713

Restricted cash

6,376

3,500

Other current assets

44,164

51,903

Total current assets

4,644,690

3,152,742

Property, plant and equipment

Land, buildings and improvements

960,379

955,937

Computer equipment and capitalized software

672,828

610,924

Furniture and other equipment

314,419

312,962

Construction in progress

105,248

133,906

2,052,874

2,013,729

Less accumulated depreciation

1,165,973

1,127,793

886,901

885,936

Intangible assets

Definite-lived intangible assets, net

759,326

729,265

Indefinite-lived intangible assets

369,140

369,023

Goodwill

1,772,671

1,754,589

Other long-term assets

684,820

612,708

Total assets

$

9,117,548

$

7,504,263

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

Current liabilities

Accounts payable, client accounts

$

1,121,424

$

948,637

Accounts payable

79,411

85,666

Accrued expenses

1,020,621

1,109,246

Deferred revenue

2,039,018

925,220

Current portion of long-term debt, net

119,414

347,593

Other current liabilities

58,825

160,638

Total current liabilities

4,438,713

3,577,000

Long-term debt, net

2,747,399

1,952,366

Deferred income taxes

138,517

137,635

Other long-term liabilities

155,998

174,391

Commitments and contingent liabilities

Redeemable noncontrolling interests

264,700

244,727

Stockholders’ equity

Common stock

2,076

2,069

Additional paid-in capital

2,348,118

2,374,006

Accumulated deficit

(1,113,378)

(1,079,472)

Cost of shares held in treasury

(6,865)

(6,865)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(92,280)

(108,542)

Total Live Nation stockholders’ equity

1,137,671

1,181,196

Noncontrolling interests

234,550

236,948

Total equity

1,372,221

1,418,144

Total liabilities and equity

$

9,117,548

$

7,504,263

 

LIVE NATION ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(unaudited)

Three Months Ended
     March 31,

2018

2017

(as adjusted)

(in thousands except share and per
share data)

Revenue

$

1,482,384

$

1,242,879

Operating expenses:

Direct operating expenses

932,084

775,261

Selling, general and administrative expenses

434,611

383,308

Depreciation and amortization

87,871

80,532

Loss (gain) on disposal of operating assets

38

(659)

Corporate expenses

33,810

25,803

Operating loss

(6,030)

(21,366)

Interest expense

29,741

26,010

Loss on extinguishment of debt

2,943

Interest income

(1,183)

(945)

Equity in earnings of nonconsolidated affiliates

(3,715)

(2,340)

Other expense (income), net

328

(2,842)

Loss before income taxes

(34,144)

(41,249)

Income tax expense

6,884

6,521

Net loss

(41,028)

(47,770)

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests

(7,122)

(14,777)

Net loss attributable to common stockholders of Live Nation

$

(33,906)

$

(32,993)

Basic and diluted net loss per common share available to common stockholders of Live Nation

$

(0.24)

$

(0.22)

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

Basic and diluted

206,728,167

203,730,897

Reconciliation to net loss available to common stockholders of Live Nation:

Net loss attributable to common stockholders of Live Nation

$

(33,906)

$

(32,993)

Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests

(16,385)

(12,577)

Net loss available to common stockholders of Live Nation—basic and diluted

$

(50,291)

$

(45,570)

 

LIVE NATION ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(unaudited)

Three Months Ended
     March 31,

2018

2017

(as adjusted)

(in thousands)

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net loss

$

(41,028)

$

(47,770)

Reconciling items:

Depreciation

42,137

35,912

Amortization

45,734

44,620

Amortization of non-recoupable ticketing contract advances

19,945

20,063

Non-cash compensation expense

10,870

7,936

Other, net

6,166

2,410

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:

Increase in accounts receivable

(53,080)

(6,558)

Increase in prepaid expenses and other assets

(405,036)

(311,447)

Increase in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities

52,318

56,600

Increase in deferred revenue

1,097,472

959,971

Net cash provided by operating activities

775,498

761,737

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Investments made in nonconsolidated affiliates

(2,997)

(10,608)

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

(45,125)

(58,881)

Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired

(20,222)

(4,700)

Purchases of intangible assets

(25,914)

(605)

Other, net

5,532

(233)

Net cash used in investing activities

(88,726)

(75,027)

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from long-term debt, net of debt issuance costs

856,660

932

Payments on long-term debt

(321,850)

(11,775)

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

(19,523)

(12,227)

Purchases and sales of noncontrolling interests, net

(104,233)

(5,098)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

7,922

21,628

Payments for deferred and contingent consideration

(11,780)

(1,074)

Other, net

(3,046)

2,547

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

404,150

(5,067)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

29,039

20,356

Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

1,119,961

701,999

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period

1,828,822

1,529,575

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period

$

2,948,783

$

2,231,574

 

SOURCE Live Nation Entertainment