Phoenix Tower International acquires 215 wireless communication tower sites from Digicel in the French West Indies

February 12, 2018

BOCA RATON, Fla., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Phoenix Tower International (“PTI”) via its subsidiary Phoenix Tower FWI, S.A.S. announces that it has closed its transaction with Digicel Antilles Francaises Guyane (“Digicel”) to acquire the ownership or management rights relating to 215 wireless communication tower sites from Digicel. This latest transaction solidifies PTI’s position as the premier tower company in the Caribbean. Terms of the transaction remain confidential between the parties.

“PTI is enthused to continue to work closely with Digicel and was uniquely positioned to execute this transaction given our existing presence in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. The French West Indies exhibit the hallmarks of a healthy wireless infrastructure market with multiple wireless operators that have significant network capex needs and a stable regulatory environment,” stated Dagan Kasavana, Chief Executive Officer of Phoenix Tower International.

He added, “PTI looks forward to continuing to work with Digicel and the other operators on their network buildouts across the Caribbean where PTI is uniquely suited to make investments over the coming years. Because of our flexible investment strategy and strong operating platform, we are able to effectively partner with multinational wireless operators in a way that is truly unique. This transaction further exemplifies PTI’s commitment to help our customers achieve their goals.”

Commenting on the transaction, Digicel Group CEO, Colm Delves, said, “We’re very pleased to be partnering with PTI on this transaction in the French West Indies, having previously done so in El Salvador. We look forward to continue building on the strong partnership already established between Digicel and PTI.”

Scotiabank acted as the Administrative Agent and ING acted as the Bookrunner on the acquisition financing. Choate Hall & Stewart LLP and Dentons Europe acted as legal advisors to PTI. Orrick and Mayer Brown acted as legal advisors to Digicel.

About Phoenix Tower International

Phoenix Tower International (“PTI”) owns and operates over 2,100 towers and other wireless infrastructure and related sites throughout Costa Rica, Panama, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, French West Indies, Colombia, Peru and the United States including Puerto Rico.

PTI was founded in 2013 with a mission to be a premier site provider to wireless operators across the Americas in high-growth markets. PTI’s investors include funds managed by Blackstone Tactical Opportunities as well as various members of the management team, and is headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida. For more information, please visit www.phoenixintnl.com.

About Digicel

Digicel Group is a total communications and entertainment provider with operations in 33 markets in the Caribbean, Central America and Asia Pacific. After 16 years of operation, total investment to date stands at over US$5 billion worldwide. The company is renowned for delivering best value, best service and best network.

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SOURCE Phoenix Tower International

Catapult and Chinasoft International announce Global Expansion of Cloud Services

February 12, 2018

Catapult Systems logo (PRNewsFoto/Catapult Systems)

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Catapult Systems, a well-known US-based cloud solutions provider, and Chinasoft International Ltd (HK:0354), Catapult’s parent company and one of the largest IT services firms in China, today announced their global expansion with the formation of Catapult Worldwide, a new division in Chinasoft’s cloud business unit. The firm is responding to the rise in demand for expertise in architecting, implementing and managing cloud-based solutions on a global scale. The company is also announcing the appointment of veteran CFO, Frank Waung, as the first Chief Financial Officer for this entity.

In hyper-growth mode, the cloud business unit has operations in Xi’an, Beijing, and Shanghai, China, as well as Malaysia, India, Europe and the United States. Catapult Worldwide is in the process of opening an office in Mexico City as the headquarters of its new Latin American operations.

“I’m excited to announce that Frank Waung has joined Catapult Worldwide as CFO. His experience with establishing and expanding multi-national organizations will be invaluable as we begin this new chapter,” said David Fuess, Catapult Worldwide CEO. Most recently, Mr. Waung was the CFO of Chinasoft International.

“Many of our customers are multi-national organizations undergoing fundamental business transformation with cloud-based technologies such as IOT and big data. Our expertise with digital transformation, along with our unique cloud-based solutions, has created a unique opportunity for Catapult to expand our services globally,” said Fuess. “Wherever we are in the world, we will continue to live by our brand promise for our customers: We always deliver, we’re easy to work with, and we bring the whole team, focusing our collective experience on every project.”

ABOUT CATAPULT WORLDWIDE
Catapult is a cloud solutions provider that uses technology to solve complex business challenges, delivering exceptional value to our clients. As Microsoft’s 2017 Partner of the Year Finalist in Cloud Productivity and the 2016 Partner of the Year (U.S.), Catapult specializes in digital transformation and cloud-based technologies. We work on behalf of our clients to imagine, build, and sustain IT-enabled business solutions that people love to use. Catapult Worldwide has offices in the US, China, Malaysia, India, and Western Europe.

Press Contact:
Mindy Russell
Vice President, Marketing
Catapult Worldwide
[email protected]
512-425-0475

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SOURCE Catapult Systems

Chobani Celebrates 10 Years by Saying Thanks to Fans and Offering Free Yogurt to all Americans

February 12, 2018

NORWICH, N.Y., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Chobani, LLC, maker of America’s No. 1 Greek yogurt brand and the second-largest overall yogurt manufacturer in the U.S., announced today a new campaign to say thanks to all who have supported the company over the past decade, and to welcome new fans to the Chobani family.

Since pioneering the Greek yogurt category 10 years ago, Chobani has made great strides in fulfilling their mission of providing better food for all people. Yet there’s still more to do as approximately half of the country still hasn’t even tried Greek Yogurt*. Chobani wants everyone in America to have the chance to try their delicious yogurt.

“This way of saying thank you is something we’ve done since we first got started, and now we wanted to extend it to everyone in America. From the beginning, we wanted to make beautiful yogurt that’s as good as what nature gives us, create it with the most amazing people, make it available to everyone, and follow the values that we all learn and live by,” said Chobani CEO and Founder Hamdi Ulukaya. “What began ten years ago in a small factory in upstate New York has grown into something so much bigger. But Chobani isn’t one person’s work or one person’s dream. It’s the combination of everyone who’s been a part of our journey—from our team, to our communities, to the millions of people who love our yogurt. That’s why we are so excited to celebrate this milestone with as many people as possible. On behalf of everyone at Chobani, I want to say thank you. Thank you to everyone who saw us on the shelf, talked about us, recommended us to others, and gave us a chance.”

Starting today, and running through March 4^th, Chobani is launching a unique offer to share the specialness of this pure, simple food with America. To receive a free cup, fans simply need to print a coupon at Chobani.com/freeyogurt, and visit any participating retail store during the three-week offer period. The coupon can be redeemed toward any single item of Chobani® 5.3oz Greek Yogurt, Flip® 5.3oz yogurt snacks, 10oz drinks, or Smooth (2-pack).

No purchase necessary to receive free participating product. Quantities limited, while supplies last. Void in New Jersey and Louisiana. For additional terms and restrictions visit Chobani.com/freeyogurt

Bringing the Specialness Back to the Category
Yogurt is one of the purest, simplest foods on earth. When made naturally and shared generously, Chobani believes the most humble foods can magically transform individuals, communities, and the environment.

Over the last 10 years, Chobani has grown from 5 employees to 2,000, becoming the No. 1-selling Greek Yogurt brand in America (and second largest yogurt maker overall). By offering a free cup or bottle of Chobani® yogurt to fans across America, Chobani is saying thanks to those who have been with them from day one, just recently joined and welcoming new fans into their family.

Spreading the Magic through Integrated National Campaign
The fully integrated national campaign is the most ambitious campaign Chobani has ever created. The campaign will run across broadcast television, online video, online display, rich media banners, bespoke influencer care packages, shopper, paid social, organic social, a digital activation in Grand Central Terminal in NYC, radio spots, and our owned digital properties.

Key highlights include:

National TV: To generate mass awareness of the national offer, Chobani will debut a series of new television advertisements developed by the brand’s in-house creative team. The whimsical 30- and 15-second spots feature original animation and music that evoke the goodness, simplicity, and magic of yogurt. The hero video follows a young girl who plants a seed and watches a beautiful tree grow, bloom, and bear fruit for everyone to enjoy.
Grand Central Terminal Experience: Chobani is unveiling today a one-day, multi-sensory, socially shareable experience at Grand Central Terminal, in New York City. Attendees are invited to travel through an interactive installation in Vanderbilt Hall, in which they “plant” virtual seeds that bloom into a digital fruit-tree canopy overhead. Each seed variety corresponds to a favorite Chobani SKU. For every virtual seed “planted,” Chobani will donate a case of yogurt to No Kid Hungry – a campaign dedicated to ending childhood hunger in America. As part of the magical experience, attendees will also receive a shareable photo and coupon.
Amazon Echo Integration: Chobani is tapping the latest in technology to enable more people to get their free Chobani® yogurt. For 30 million Amazon Echo users, Chobani has built a special Alexa skill/command enabling them to receive a coupon to use on their Amazon Fresh and Prime Now platforms. A custom online video prompting users to make the command will run on the Amazon platform.
Employee Engagement: Chobani is so grateful to their 2,000 employees who have contributed to the company’s success and strengthened the communities in which they live and work. As part of this offer, they’re engaging employees across the country to serve as brand ambassadors, who will share their passion, dedication, and thanks with family and friends.

For more information about how Chobani is saying thank you, visit Chobani.com/freeyogurt for all terms and conditions.

About Chobani
Maker of America’s No. 1–selling Greek yogurt brand and the second-largest yogurt manufacturer in the U.S., Chobani, LLC, was founded on the belief that people have great taste—they just need great options. Chobani produces high-quality authentic yogurt made with only natural, non-GMO ingredients from its plants in New Berlin, New York, Twin Falls, Idaho and South Victoria, Australia. Chobani is committed to using milk from regional farms and strengthening its surrounding local economies. Chobani gives a portion of its annual profits to charities worldwide through the company’s charitable foundation. In 2017, Chobani was recognized by Fast Company as one of the top 10 most innovative companies in the world. All Chobani products—including Chobani® Greek Yogurt and Greek Yogurt Drinks, Chobani® Smooth, Chobani® Flip®, Chobani Tots® and Chobani Kids® products—are kosher certified, contain live and active cultures and are made with milk from cows not treated with rBST.** Chobani products are available nationwide in the U.S., Mexico and Australia, and in countries in Asia and Latin America. For more information, please visit www.chobani.com and www.facebook.com/chobani.

Media Contact
Blair Aires / Chobani / [email protected] / 212-364-6731

*Ispos 2017 Household Data

**According to the FDA, no significant difference has been found between milk derived from rBST-treated and non-rBST-treated cows.

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SOURCE Chobani, LLC

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek Unveils Details on Spectacular Disney Parks Experiences

February 11, 2018

TOKYO, Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today at D23 Expo Japan 2018, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek shared exciting new details about the many ambitious projects underway around the world, from reimagined favorites to entirely new ways that guests can encounter Super Heroes, Jedi, classic characters and life-long Pixar pals.

Building on the tremendous excitement from D23 Expo in Anaheim last July, Chapek welcomed more than 2000 fans to learn more about some of the most anticipated projects in development for guests all over the world. D23 Expo Japan guests were the first to hear that the Marvel Super Hero universe will come to Disneyland Paris. Guests were also treated to a sneak peek at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort, and more.

“We are hard at work creating even more ways to experience Disney magic at our parks and resorts around the world,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “And with our incredible library of beloved stories and characters, we know exciting adventures and magical memories are in store for all our guests.”

Larger Than Life Super Heroes
Following the news that Walt Disney Parks and Resorts is preparing to incorporate popular stories and characters into Disneyland Paris, Chapek shared that the Marvel Super Hero universe will come to Walt Disney Studios Park, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will be totally reimagined as a high-speed, hyper-kinetic adventure where guests will team up with Iron Man and their favorite Avengers.

Fans also got a peek into one of the rooms that will open at Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel in 2020. And for those guests who just can’t wait to encounter Marvel at Disneyland Paris, starting this June, Marvel Summer of Super Heroes will bring guests face-to-face with Captain America, Spider-Man, Star-Lord and Black Widow.

Super Heroes have already descended on Hong Kong Disneyland with Iron Man Experience, the most popular attraction at the resort, and more is soon to come with an entire Marvel-themed area underway. Today, Chapek shared new details about the second new Marvel attraction set for Hong Kong Disneyland, where guests will be invited to team up with Ant-Man and The Wasp to fight Arnim Zola and his army of Hydra swarm bots in a thrilling new adventure.

Buzz is also building around Star-Lord and his fellow Guardians of the Galaxy coming to Epcot, where the real becomes fantastic and the fantastic becomes real. This one-of-a-kind family attraction will feature a brand-new, innovative ride system – and will be one of the longest enclosed roller coasters in the world!

Star Wars Comes to Life
After a groundbreaking Star Wars-themed hotel concept was announced last year, fans have been eager to hear more. It will combine a luxury resort with complete immersion into an authentic Star Wars story at Walt Disney World Resort. From the moment guests arrive, their journey through space will begin as everyone boards a starship and departs together for a multi-day Star Wars adventure. Today, Chapek announced it will be seamlessly connected to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Chapek also shared details on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge as it comes to life at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. Fans caught a glimpse of the Millennium Falcon and an impressive fleet of life-size X-wing star fighters, which are being created for the opening of these jaw-dropping new lands. Imagineers are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible as they prepare to place fans in the middle of the action where they can live their own Star Wars stories next year.

Twenty Years of Pixar
For 20 years, Pixar has entertained guests at Disney parks all over the world – from the introduction of It’s Tough to be a Bug! and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Walt Disney World in 1998, to Cars Land at Disney California Adventure in 2012 – Pixar’s iconic storytelling has been a long-time favorite.

This year will surely be the “Year of Pixar” at Disney parks, with Disney•Pixar Toy Story Land opening at Shanghai Disney Resort in April, and at Walt Disney World Resort this summer. Today, fans were thrilled to learn the highly-anticipated Pixar Pier will open at Disney California Adventure on June 23, including the Incredicoaster and a future attraction themed to Disney•Pixar’s “Inside Out.” Fans also learned that a new Incredibles float will join Paint the Night this June. The popular parade returns to the Disneyland Resort – this time to Disney California Adventure – when Pixar Fest launches on April 13.

Just in time for the 20th Anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, fans also learned that a new, family-friendly show will debut April 22, featuring Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s “Up,” as they discover species of birds from around the world.

Celebrating Classic Disney Stories
Soon, fans will be able to celebrate the mouse that started it all when Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway opens in 2019 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The first-ever ride-through attraction themed to Mickey Mouse will feature a new original story and lovable theme song as it takes guests on a journey inside the wacky and unpredictable world of Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Mickey Mouse” cartoon shorts using new technologies that transform the two-dimensional cartoon world into an incredible multi-dimensional experience.

Even More Disney Magic Coming to Japan
Chapek shared that starting next year, Adventures by Disney will take guests to the beautiful and storied country of Japan. Guests are also excited about the new experiences coming to Tokyo Disney Resort as part of the biggest expansion since the opening of Tokyo DisneySea. The first-ever attraction inspired by “Big Hero 6” is coming to Tomorrowland at Tokyo Disneyland, where guests will ride around with Baymax. There will also be an entirely new area in Fantasyland themed to “Beauty and the Beast,” with an attraction set to the award-winning music guests know and love. The Fantasyland expansion will also include the first full-scale, live entertainment theatre at Tokyo Disneyland, and Toontown will see a new design studio where guests can meet the one-and-only Minnie Mouse. At Tokyo DisneySea, guests will soon be able to experience a version of Soarin’, one of the most popular attractions across all Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

With so much underway, Disney parks all over the world continue to elevate the guest experience with one-of-a-kind attractions, lands, entertainment and lodging. For more information, please visit http://aboutdisneyparks.com.

About Walt Disney Parks and Resorts
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts are where dreams come true. More than sixty years ago, Walt Disney created a new kind of entertainment families could experience together, immersed in detailed atmospheres and vibrant storytelling. His vision now includes a collection of six of the world’s leading family vacation destinations – Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, Calif.; Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.; Tokyo Disney Resort, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan; Disneyland Paris, Marne-la-Vallée, France; Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, located on Lantau Island; and Shanghai Disney Resort, Pudong New District, Shanghai, China. In addition, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts includes the world-class Disney Cruise Line; Disney Vacation Club; Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa; Adventures by Disney, a guided group vacation experience to some of the world’s most popular destinations; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions.

Media Contacts:
Angela Bliss
[email protected]
818-560-4107

Rachel Green
[email protected]
818-560-2218

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SOURCE Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

Pixar Pier Opens June 23, 2018, and New Incredibles-Themed Float Adds Super Fun to ‘Paint the Night’ Parade at Disney California Adventure Park

February 11, 2018

PIXAR PIER MARQUEE AT DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE (ANAHEIM, Calif.) - When Pixar Pier opens on June 23 at Disney California Adventure park, guests will enter the permanent new land through a dazzling new Pixar Pier marquee. This reimagined land will feature four whimsical neighborhoods representing beloved Pixar stories with newly themed attractions, foods and merchandise. The Pixar Pier marquee will be topped with the iconic Pixar lamp later in the year. (Disney•Pixar/Disneyland Resort)

ANAHEIM, California, Feb. 11, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Disneyland Resort will open the highly anticipated Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park on June 23, 2018, powering up summer with more of the playful Pixar stories and characters that guests have come to know and love. Also debuting in June, a new float adds superhero fun to the electrifying “Paint the Night” parade, featuring characters from Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles.” The news was announced today by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek during his presentation at D23 Expo Japan at Tokyo Disney Resort.

This year, guests will experience the wit, humor and warmth of Pixar stories and characters in extraordinary new ways at the Disneyland Resort, beginning with the first-ever Pixar Fest, a limited-time celebration of friendship that begins April 13. The permanent, new land of Pixar Pier, opening June 23, offers guests their first chance to experience the new Incredicoaster, a thrilling adventure with everyone’s favorite Super family and theming inspired by the newest Disney•Pixar film, “Incredibles 2.”

At Pixar Pier, guests will explore four new imaginative neighborhoods, newly themed attractions, entertainment, encounters with Pixar pals, plus themed food and merchandise, all inspired by beloved Pixar stories.

The fan-favorite “Paint the Night” parade returns April 13 for Pixar Fest, this time at Disney California Adventure. And in June, the popular nighttime spectacular adds even more Pixar fun with the addition of a new, high-energy float inspired by “The Incredibles.” Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl and Frozone will showcase their superhero awesomeness as they take on their newest threat, the Underminer. Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack also showcase their unique powers in surprising new ways, as shown through dynamic and innovative visual technology. Like the other elements in this spectacular parade, this new float will come to life through a series of dazzling LED lights, new music elements and high-tech, pop-art effects inspired by the mid-century-modern style of the films.

Pixar Pier Opens at Disney California Adventure Park June 23

The thrilling new Incredicoaster will anchor Pixar Pier in the new land’s first neighborhood, which is inspired by “The Incredibles.” New character moments, scenes, special effects and an exciting musical score will connect the attraction’s story to “Incredibles 2,” which opens in theaters June 15, 2018. A second neighborhood at Pixar Pier will be inspired by “Toy Story” around the popular Toy Story Mania! attraction. The third new neighborhood will be inspired by “Inside Out” and will feature an “Inside Out” attraction, scheduled to open at a later date. The fourth new neighborhood will celebrate a collection of Pixar stories. Mickey’s Fun Wheel will transform into a newly-themed Pixar attraction, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful sights of Pixar Pier from 24 new gondolas that will feature beloved Pixar pals. The midway games will also be inspired by Pixar characters, including favorites from “A Bug’s Life,” “La Luna” and “WALL•E”.

Additionally, what was formerly Ariel’s Grotto restaurant and the Cove Bar will be transformed into a Pixar-themed lounge, offering sparkling views of Paradise Bay and the new Pixar Pier.

First-Ever Pixar Fest Opens April 13 throughout the Disneyland Resort

Pixar Fest will allow guests to celebrate friendship and beyond during this limited-time event, bringing Pixar stories and characters to life like never before. At Disneyland, a new fireworks show, “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular,” will debut with dazzling pyrotechnics, memorable music and a heartwarming story.

“Pixar Play Parade” returns, this time making its way through Disneyland park. The popular parade will bring even more fan-favorite Pixar stories to guests with the addition of three new show elements, including the famous Pixar Lamp and Ball from the Pixar short film, “Luxo Jr.” as well as characters and elements from “Up” and “Inside Out.”

And appearing for the first time at Disney California Adventure, the “Paint the Night” parade will return to delight guests with the parade’s 1.5 million, brilliant LED lights and catchy tunes. In addition to the new Incredibles-themed float, “Paint the Night” parade will spotlight many Pixar stories and include characters from “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.” and “Cars.”

A new film festival, Pixar Shorts, will also take place throughout much of Pixar Fest at Disney California Adventure. Pixar Shorts will feature rotating favorites including “For the Birds” and “LAVA” at the Sunset Showcase Theater in Hollywood Land.

And in the Paradise Gardens area at Disney California Adventure, many new Pixar experiences will be available for guests to enjoy including performances by a new Pixar-themed musical troupe, Pixar character encounters, and special crafts and activities for younger guests.

Pixar Fest will also feature additional elements throughout the resort including new décor, atmosphere entertainment, themed food and beverage and limited-edition event merchandise.

All of these exciting new additions for the limited-time Pixar Fest celebration and the opening of the new land of Pixar Pier will add to the existing Pixar attractions and entertainment currently available throughout the Resort, from Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters at Disneyland to Cars Land at Disney California Adventure.

About the Disneyland Resort
The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks – Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park – plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort’s hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, 973-room Disneyland Hotel – both AAA Four Diamond properties – and the 481-room Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel with its “day-at-the-beach” theme. For information on attractions and vacations at the Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com, call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agents. Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort opened July 17, 1955. Open daily, year-round.

About Pixar Animation Studios
Pixar Animation Studios, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is an Academy Award®-winning film studio with world-renowned technical, creative and production capabilities in the art of computer animation. The Northern California studio has created some of the most successful and beloved animated films of all time, including “Toy Story,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “Cars,” “The Incredibles,” “Ratatouille,” “WALL•E,” “Up,” “Toy Story 3,” “Brave,” “Inside Out,” and “Coco.” Its movies have won 32 Academy Awards® and have grossed more than $11 billion at the worldwide box office to date. “Incredibles 2,” Pixar’s 20th feature, opens in theaters on June 15, 2018.

NEW INCREDIBLES-THEMED FLOAT FOR ‘PAINT THE NIGHT’ PARADE—This June, a new, high-energy Incredibles-themed float will add more Pixar fun to the electrifying “Paint the Night” parade at Disney California Adventure park. Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl and Frozone will showcase their superhero awesomeness as they take on their newest threat, the Underminer. Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack also showcase their unique powers in surprising new ways, as shown through dynamic and innovative visual technology. (Disney•Pixar/Disneyland Resort)

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SOURCE Disneyland Resort

(Español) Stef Soto, de trece años, es «La Reina del Taco» en la novela debut de Jennifer Torres

February 9, 2018

HCE Logo (PRNewsfoto/HarperCollins Espanol)

Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

A New Investment in Community Leaders

February 9, 2018

Founded in 2004, Facebook's mission is to make the world more open and connected. People use Facebook to stay connected with friends and family, to discover what's going on in the world, and to share and express what matters to them. (PRNewsFoto/Facebook, Inc.)

LONDON, Feb. 9, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today at the Facebook Communities Summit Europe, we announced the Facebook Community Leadership Program, a global initiative that invests in people building communities. Facebook will commit tens of millions of dollars to the program, including up to $10 million in grants that will go directly to people creating and leading communities.

In addition, we introduced new tools for group admins and the expansion of our London-based engineering team that builds technology to help keep people safe on Facebook.

More than 300 community leaders from across Europe came together today in London including Blind Veterans UK, an advocacy organization that provides practical and emotional support to blind veterans and their families; Donna Mamma, a support group for mothers in France to share advice and information; Girl Skate UK, which celebrates and brings together the female skateboarding community; High Society PL, a group of sneaker enthusiasts who bond over their shared passion; and Berlin Bruisers, Germany’s first gay and inclusive rugby club.

Facebook Community Leadership Program

Community leaders often tell us that with additional support they could have more impact. The Facebook Community Leadership Program is designed to empower leaders from around the world who are building communities through the Facebook family of apps and services. It includes:

Residency and Fellowship opportunities offer training, support and funding for community leaders from around the world.

Up to five leaders will be selected to be community leaders in residence and awarded up to $1,000,000* each to fund their proposals.
Up to 100 leaders will be selected for our fellowship program and will receive up to $50,000* each to be used for a specific community initiative.

Community Leadership Circles bring local community leaders together to meet up in person to connect, learn, and collaborate. We piloted three circles in the US in 2017 and will be expanding globally this year.
Groups for Facebook Power Admins, which we currently run with more than 10,000 group admins in the US and UK, are expanding to more members to help them share advice with one another and connect with our team to test new features and share feedback.

Applications are now open for the residency and fellowship. To learn more and apply, visit http://communities.fb.com/.

New Tools for Group Admins and Members

Group admins want to keep their communities safe, organized and engaged. Today we added four new features to support them.

Admin tools: Admins can now find member requests, Group Insights and more together in one place, making it easier to manage groups and freeing up more time for admins to connect with members.
Group announcements: Group admins want to be able to more easily share updates, so we’re introducing group announcements to let admins post up to 10 announcements that appear at the top of their group.
Group rules: Keeping communities safe is important. Now admins can create a dedicated rules section to help them effectively communicate the rules of the group to their members.
Personalization: Each community has its own identity – now admins can add a personalized color that is displayed throughout their group.

Expanding London Engineering Team for Community Safety

A team of engineers across the globe builds technologies that help keep our community safe and secure. London is home to Facebook’s largest engineering hub outside of the US, and by the end of 2018, we will double the number of people working in London on these issues.

Our engineering work on community safety includes the following:

Detecting and stopping fake accounts: Working to make sure Facebook is a community of people who can connect authentically with real people.
Protecting people from harm: Reducing things like harassment and scams that can happen in the real world and on Facebook, by building better tools to spot these issues and remove them.
Improving ways to report content: Making it easier for people to give us feedback about things that shouldn’t be on our platform, which works in conjunction with our automated detection.

People find meaning and support in community, online and in person. The programs and tools we announced today are designed to help the admins who lead these communities to grow and strengthen bonds among members. We are inspired by these leaders and look forward to continuing our efforts to support them.

*The final payment amount in USD may vary due to potential exchange rate fluctuation at the time of payment. At the time of announcement, $1,000,000 USD equates to approximately €810,000 Euros or £718,000 GBP; $50,000 USD equates to €40,500 Euros or £35,900 GBP.

Contact:
[email protected]

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SOURCE Facebook

36 High Schoolers Vie to be the LLS 2018 Student of the Year

February 8, 2018

SAN JOSE, California, Feb. 8, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) will announce the winners of the second annual Students of the Year campaign (SOY), on Saturday, February 24, 2018 at the Corinthian Grand Ballroom in San Jose, CA. This Grand Finale Gala will celebrate the accomplishments of the area’s young philanthropists committed to cancer cures.

LLS’s Students of the Year is an exciting leadership development and philanthropy program in which local high school students raise fund to invest in research to advance lifesaving treatments and cures for blood cancer patients. The Candidate Team who raise the most money at the end of the seven-week competition earns the title, “Student(s) of the Year” and receives a $1,000 scholarship to a college or university of their choice. This year, 21 Candidate Teams, comprised of 36 local high school students are in the running.

Festivities begin at 6 p.m. Speakers include cancer survivor, Ethan Pope, age 10, who is in remission from Very High Risk Acute Lymphomblastic Leukemia, Sienna Pope, age 8, who was a 100% match to be Ethan’s bone marrow donor, and Kate Berardo, Head of Leadership Development at Facebook, who will illustrate the importance of the dollars raised for LLS in correspondence to leadership qualities in the workforce.

The evening will include a silent auction, plated dinner, awards, a reveal of the grand total raised by all Candidate Teams, and dancing. Tickets to the Grand Finale can be purchased here by selecting “Shop Our Store” and are $100/adult and $50/Ages 18 and under.

Media interested in covering the event should contact Pooja Trivedi at [email protected].

To learn more about the event, donate, or to support the Candidate Teams, please visit: studentseries.org/SOY-SVMB

2018 Students of the Year Candidates
Silicon Valley & Monterey Bay Area Chapter

Visit the candidate’s fundraising pages here.

Team Beat It	Team ProCURE
Abigal Shamelashvili, Homestead High School	Nicole Gou, St. Francis High School
Elizabeth White, Homestead High School	Zainab Nasir, Lynbrook High School
Jacqueline Beaufore, Homestead High School
	Team ProHealth
Team Cancer conCUREors	Rosheni Kandaswamy, Silver Creek High School
Alden Gu, Lynbrook High School
	Team reMISSION
Team Can-cer Vive	Silpa Ajjarapu, Monta Vista High School
Christina Vo, Silver Creek High School	Meera Bambroo, Monta Vista High School

Team CUREblood	Team Thrive
Amy Kumar, University Preparatory Academy	Karan Singh Ratra, Moreau Catholic High School
Meghana Chintala, University Preparatory
Academy	Team Together for the Cure
Tanvir Sandhu, University Preparatory Academy	Amelia Gleixner, Notre Dame High School

Team CUREnation	Team Tumorators
Aditi Rao, Lynbrook High School	Ishani Malipatlolla, Notre Dame High School
Thishitha Vaikuntam, Lynbrook High School	Shruthi Shyam, Notre Dame High School

Team CUREosity	Team Vikings
Amy Zhang, Monta Vista High School	Vatsal Gupta, Irvington High School
Wenyu Chen, Monta Vista High School
	Team Vitae
Team Cut Out Cancer	Aayushi Jani, Lynbrook High School
Anoushka Dave, University Preparatory	Lauren Ho, Lynbrook High School
Academy
Arnav Verma, University Preparatory Academy	Team “Wheel” Find a Cure
	Emilie Erickson, Scotts Valley High School
Team Fight Strong
Kanika Khemka, Notre Dame High School	The Impacters
Sanya Shah, Presentation High School	Layla Yassin, Granada High School
	Tatum Hayes, Granada High School
Team Lifeline
Aarya Gupta, Homestead High School	The Purifiers
	Anoop Dhindsa, Notre Dame High School
Team Love Boat	Harleen Judge, Notre Dame High School
Jacob Isaacs, Los Gatos High School
Trevor Ross, Los Gatos High Schoola

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/639724/Leukemia_and_Lymphoma_Society_Logo.jpg

SOURCE The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Silicon Valley & Monterey Bay Area Chapter

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program Returns to Broward County

February 8, 2018

HOLLYWOOD, Florida, Feb. 8, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ —

Who: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
What: Free Tax Preparation for Lower to Middle Income Families
Where: Broward County
When: January 16 – April 17, 2018

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program will provide free income tax services through April 17, 2018. Individuals and families who earned $54,000 or less in 2017 can save up to $200 with free tax preparation services; the program includes eligibility determinations for inclusion in federal tax credit programs. Starting this year, program participants will also receive financial advice on the best way to use their refund.

These services will be provided at 16 permanent tax sites at local nonprofits and more than 20 tax sites where a mobile team will assist the community. To find the nearest VITA site in Broward County, call 211 or 954-537-0211 or visit www.VITATaxesFree.org.

Low- to mid-income families and individuals may qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and/or the Child Tax Credit (CTC). These tax credits change from year to year and are based on earnings, number of qualifying children and marital status.

The maximum amount of EITC credits for 2018 is as follows:

$6,444 with three or more qualifying children
$5,728 with two qualifying children
$3,468 with one qualifying child
$520 with no qualifying children

This free tax service is available for persons with disabilities, veterans and the elderly. Services are available in English, Spanish, French, Haitian-Creole, Portuguese and American Sign-Language.

“VITA and the Earned Income Tax Campaign have been enormously helpful to millions of working families struggling to make ends meet,” said Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, President/CEO of the Children’s Services Council of Broward County. “That is why we have been a major supporter of this campaign in Broward for fifteen years. Reimbursements going directly into the pockets of Broward County families that need them most makes an enormous difference in the lives of children,” she said.

“During the 2017 tax season, $6 million in taxes were refunded to Broward County working families and individuals and more than 5,908 people were served across 18 site locations,” said Josie Bacallao, President/CEO of Hispanic Unity of Florida, the largest provider of these services in Broward County.

According to the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, filers are advised that this year the tax refund will be delayed until mid-February, without exceptions.

“It is crucial Broward County residents know what tax credits are available, how they can qualify, and are able to file. These credits amount to significant funds that will filter into Broward County and improve the lives of many who are living paycheck to paycheck,” said Kathleen Cannon, President and CEO of United Way of Broward County.

This Broward community-wide initiative is made possible by the Children’s Services Council of Broward County (CSC), the IRS, Hispanic Unity of Florida, United Way of Broward County, and Citi. Other key partners and funders include: 211 Broward, Bank of America, Broward College, Broward County, Broward County Libraries, Community Access Center, DeVry University, HandsOn Broward, SunTrust Bank, and Third Federal Savings & Loan.

About the Children’s Services Council:
The Children’s Services Council of Broward County is an independent taxing authority which was established by a public referendum on September 5, 2000 and was reauthorized by voters on November 4, 2014, which, through Public Act, Chapter 2000-461 of the laws of Florida, authorized the Council to levy up to 0.5 mills of property taxes. The role of the Council is to provide the leadership, advocacy and resources necessary to enhance children’s lives and empower them to become responsible, productive adults through collaborative planning and funding of a continuum of quality care.

For more information about the Children’s Services Council of Broward County, please visit www.cscbroward.org. Follow us on Twitter at @CSCBroward and on Facebook.

About United Way of Broward County:
United Way of Broward County is a volunteer driven, community-based, non-profit organization servicing Broward County for more than 75 years. United Way of Broward County’s mission is to focus and unite the entire community to create significant lasting change in the impact areas of Education, Income and Health, the building blocks for a better life, which positively impacts people’s lives. United Way of Broward County is the catalyst for change and convener of partnerships that unite the hearts, minds, and resources within the Broward community. For more information, visit www.UnitedWayBroward.org.

About Hispanic Unity of Florida (HUF):
HUF is a non-profit founded 36 years ago by community leaders to ease the acculturation transition for newcomers from other nations. Today, HUF provides assistance through 12 programs and 30+ services in four languages to Broward’s diverse community. HUF remains the county’s largest agency dedicated to the immigrant population, providing them with the tools they need to build a new life. In 2017, the agency served more than 15,000 children and families. The agency offers assistance at eight Broward County sites, in addition to 18 FREE tax preparation sites and nine citizenship preparation sites. For more information, visit www.hispanicunity.org.

For more information visit: www.hispanicunity.org. Follow us on online: Faceboook.com/Hispanicunity.org. Twitter: @hispanicunity.org

Media Contact:
Diana Rodríguez
Latin2Latin Marketing + Communications
(954) 376-4800 (Main)
[email protected]

SOURCE Hispanic Unity of Florida (HUF)

L’Bel bets on Latin women in the United States through its National Inspire Tour

February 8, 2018

MIAMI, Feb. 8, 2018 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Belcorp, a corporation with a presence in Latin America and the United States through its L’Bel brand, will conduct its first National Inspire Tour in the USA.

With the desire to encourage the dreams of Latin women living in the United States, the objective of this tour is to get closer to the Hispanic community and inform it of a business opportunity that will allow women to become businesswomen within the beauty industry, and female leaders in their communities.

“Our goal is to empower Hispanic women in the United States, so we have designed the Inspire Program; it is a program of recognition that benefits our Beauty Advisors and leaders in their L’Bel careers through incentives,” said Adriana Álvarez, National Sales Director for L’Bel USA.

Today, the L’Bel USA brand has thousands of Beauty Advisers, including some who have reported nearly one million dollars in volume of sales.

“Last year we achieved significant growth in sales. In Florida we grew 400% over 2016; in New York we grew 200%, and in Texas nearly 60%. These results are thanks to the teamwork of all of our advisers and leaders throughout the country,” Álvarez added.

In the National Inspire Tour, women will have the chance to learn about the program’s benefits, domestic and international trips, luxury automobiles, workshop participation, chats, product demonstrations, raffles and many more surprises. The event is open to the public.

Dates and locations of the National Inspire Tour:

Miami, Florida, February 10^th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Hyatt Place Miami Airport West/Doral 3655 NW 82^nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33166.
Houston, Texas, February 15^th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at SpringHill Suites, Houston Westchase 5851 Rogerdale Rd., Houston, TX 77072
New York, New York, February 17^th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis 1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036.
Los Angeles, California, February 24^th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Doubletree by Hilton 5757 Telegraph Road, Commerce, CA 90040.

For more information, go to www.lbelusa.com

SOURCE L’Bel

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