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All-new Acura RDX Prototype Teased Ahead of Detroit World Debut

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Making its global debut at the North American International Auto Show January 15, the 2019 RDX Prototype is the first in a new generation of Acura models developed fully from the Precision Crafted Performance concept.

TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 21, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The third-generation Acura RDX Prototype will make its world debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) on January 15 at 11:05 a.m. EST. Representing the most extensive Acura redesign in more than a decade, the new RDX is the first in a new generation of Acura products inspired by “Precision Crafted Performance” and signals the beginning of a new era for the luxury automaker.

Designed and developed for the first time in America, the new RDX will be built on a new, Acura-exclusive platform and incorporates key design elements of two recent concepts – the Acura Precision Concept and Acura Precision Cockpit. The exterior styling adapts the low, wide and sleek presence of the Precision Concept to an SUV, and features strong character lines that run along the entire profile of the vehicle. From the Precision Cockpit, the third-generation RDX features an all-new interior design, user interface and operating system designed from a clean sheet.

The Acura RDX is a perennial best-seller in the premium-entry SUV segment, which is on pace to unseat entry-premium sedans as the highest volume segment of the luxury market. The RDX has recorded five consecutive years of record sales and seven straight years of year-over-year sales growth1.

For More Information
Consumer information is available at http://www.acura.com. To join the Acura community on Facebook, visit http://www.facebook.com/acura. Additional media information including high-resolution photography is available at acuranews.com/channels/acura-automobiles.

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.

1 Based on Autodata total sales data for calendar years 2009 to 2016CY.

Making its global debut at the North American International Auto Show January 15, the 2019 RDX Prototype is the first in a new generation of Acura models developed fully from the Precision Crafted Performance concept.

 

Acura Logo.

Video – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mikj1Qkyzvk 
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Logo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/592658/Acura_Logo.jpg 

SOURCE Acura

(Español) El equipo Miami Flamingos Esports es reconocido por el Alcalde Carlos Bermudez de Ciudad de Doral de la Florida y como “Equipo Revelación Esports US 2017”

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Alcalde de la Ciudad del Doral Carlos Bermudez, la Vice Alcaldesa Cristi Fraga, y los Concejales Pete Cabrera, Crsiti Fraga, Claudia Mariaca, el Manager Lucas Noya, el Coach Hugo “Rew4z” Cáceres, el Analista Damián Hapke junto a los jugadores Javier “FiReMaNN” Collado, Hugo “Rew4z” Cáceres, Alejandro “Otto” Mendive, Gabriel “1962” Sinopoli y Roberto “Reversive” Thentham

Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

Department of Industrial Relations Reports 2016 Fatal Occupational Injuries

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OAKLAND, Calif., Dec. 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) reports that 376 Californians died on the job in 2016, down slightly from the 388 deaths in 2015.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621604/California_Department_of_Industrial_Relations_Occupational_Fatality_Rate_Chart.jpg 
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621605/California_Department_of_Industrial_Relations_CFOI_Fatalities.jpg 
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621603/California_Department_of_Industrial_Relations_2016_Fatal_Occupational_Injuries.jpg 
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621606/California_Department_of_Industrial_Relations_Latino_Workplace_Fatalities.jpg

“Even one workplace fatality is too many, and our thoughts are with the families of those that died on the job last year,” said Christine Baker, DIR Director. “The fatality data released today is a reminder that we must all continue our efforts to reduce workplace safety and health hazards in order to prevent worker deaths.”

A review of the past twelve years indicates that workplace fatalities in California remain below the average rate of fatalities prior to 2008, when the last recession began, and remained flat over the past two years at 2.2 deaths per 100,000 workers. On the national level, the rate of fatalities jumped from 3.4 to 3.6 per 100,000 workers.

There were 376 fatal injuries on the job in California in 2016, compared to 388 in 2015, 344 in 2014, and 396 in 2013. Data comes from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), which is conducted annually in conjunction with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures for 2016 are the latest numbers available.

Key findings from the latest census in California include: 

  • One in five (20%) of all California workplace deaths identified in 2016 were attributed to violence and other injuries by persons or animals. The incidence of workplace homicides in 2016 accounts for 12% of all workplace deaths in the state.
  • Nearly two of every five (38%) California workplace deaths identified in 2016 occurred in transportation incidents.
  • One in six (17%) of all California workplace deaths identified in 2016 were attributed to trips, slips and falls; with 90% of those deaths involving falls to a lower level.
  • Nearly two of every five (39%) California workplace deaths in 2016 were Latinos. This fatality rate has fluctuated over the past ten years from 37% to 49%.

The percentage of Latino deaths in the workplace continues to be an area the department is tracking closely. DIR over the past eight years has increased workplace safety outreach and education to Spanish-speaking workers, with a focus on high-hazard work. 

Tables reflecting final data for 2016 (and prior years’ final data) for California are posted online, as well as a report reflecting four years’ of fatal occupational injuries in California.

DIR conducts the California Census annually in conjunction with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. CFOI produces comprehensive, accurate and timely counts of fatal work injuries. This Federal-State cooperative program was implemented in all 50 states and the District of Columbia in 1992.

DIR protects and improves the health, safety and economic well-being of over 18 million wage earners, and helps their employers comply with state labor laws. Its Division of Occupational Safety and Health, commonly known as Cal/OSHA, helps protect workers from health and safety hazards on the job in almost every workplace in California. Cal/OSHA does not have authority when injuries occur on public roadways where other state or federal agencies have jurisdiction, such as the California Highway Patrol.

Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Services Branch provides free and voluntary assistance to employers to improve their safety and health programs. Employers should call (800) 963-9424 for assistance from Cal/OSHA Consultation Services. Cal/OSHA has also published a wealth of helpful guides for employers and workers.

Employees with work-related questions or complaints may contact DIR’s Call Center in English or Spanish at 844-LABOR-DIR (844-522-6734). Complaints can also be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA district offices

Members of the press may contact Erika Monterroza or Peter Melton at (510) 286-1161, and are encouraged to subscribe to get email alerts on DIR’s press releases or other departmental updates.

Sources:
Graph 1 – Current Population Survey, BLS Labor Force Data (Employment as of July of calendar year), and Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (annual final data for calendar year). 
Graph 2 – Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (annual final data for calendar year). 
Graph 3 – 2016 Fatal Occupational Injuries in California by Major Event, Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries 2016.
Graph 4 – Percentage of Latino Workplace Fatalities in California, Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (annual final data for calendar year, table A-7: percentage of Hispanic or Latino fatalities as compared to all fatalities).
For further detail on CFOI methods and calculations see Part III: Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries.

The California Department of Industrial Relations, established in 1927, protects and improves the health, safety, and economic well-being of over 18 million wage earners, and helps their employers comply with state labor laws. DIR is housed within the Labor & Workforce Development Agency. For general inquiries, contact DIR’s Communications Call Center at 844-LABOR-DIR (844-522-6734) for help in locating the appropriate division or program in our department.

SOURCE California Department of Industrial Relations, Cal/OSHA

Meruelo Group Makes Lasting Impact through Music for Patients at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach

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LONG BEACH, California, Dec. 20, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — There was something different about the pediatric playroom at MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach on Tuesday, Dec. 12. It was the sound of POWER 106 and KDAY 93.5 DJ’s playing the latest hits and holiday favorites.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621892/MemorialCare_Miller_Childrens_Bear_Hugs_Toy_Drive_1.jpg 
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621891/MemorialCare_Miller_Childrens_Bear_Hugs_Toy_Drive_2.jpg 
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The unique music party was part of the Bear Hugs Toy Drive donation, an event launched by Liset Meruelo, wife of prominent Cuban-American businessman Alex Meruelo, of the Meruelo Group. Now in its 20th year, Bear Hugs Toy Drive delivers hundreds of bears and stuffed animals to patients at Miller Children’s & Women’s.

This year, Liset was joined by prominent Los Angeles radio personalities J Cruz, Jeff Garcia, DJ E-Man and Cece The Mamacita, as well as Star Wars and Frozen characters, like Elsa and Anna whose voices filled the halls with holiday cheer.  

Throughout the holiday season, Meruelo Group employees, families and friends, including Meruelo Group companies POWER 106 and KDAY 93.5, gather donations.

“The small donation of a plush toy provides these children and their families with a moment of happiness and smiles,” says Liset Meruelo. “As a parent, you’d want to look forward to anything that can get your child’s mind off their illness and treatments and just be a kid during the holidays.”

Liset and Alex Meruelo are longtime supporters of Miller Children’s & Women’s. In addition to bringing a day of holiday fun and music to patients, the Meruelo’s donated $20,000 to support the Music Therapy Program at Miller Children’s & Women’s.

This is their third donation to the Music Therapy Program. Their donation in 2016 helped expand the Music Therapy Program, including the addition of recording software, which has allowed patients the opportunity to record their own music.

“Music is often the only way that our patients feel comfortable expressing themselves,” says Andrea Chattler, music therapist, Miller Children’s & Women’s. “Being able to have them go through the process of writing down their feelings, recording, mixing and editing their own songs is therapeutic. It gives many of our patients an outlet to address feelings about their illness.”

The Music Therapy Program is part of the Child Life Program at Miller Children’s & Women’s, which was developed to help make the hospital experience more positive for children.

“The Bear Hugs Toy Drive is a great way to bring our patients comfort and the opportunity to forget their illness for one day, but through their generous donation, we will be able to provide support to our patients well beyond the event,” says Rita Goshert, manager, Child Life Program.  

The Meruelo family, and its companies, are continuing to raise funds for the Music Therapy Program throughout the remainder of the year. Donations can be made by visiting: https://www.youcaring.com/millerchildrenswomenshospitallongbeach-1029711

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SOURCE MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach

(Español) La Directora de la Cámara de Comercio Argentina Americana de la Florida Lic. Nancy Clara es invitada al lanzamiento de SheTrades Argentina

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Lorena Triaca, Directora de Asuntos Externos (Agencia Argentina de Inversiones y Comercio Internacional, junto a la Lic. Nancy Clara Directora de la AACC y de World Logistics Cargo y Francisca Adragna Directora de GEMA y el grupo de Mujeres Empresarias CAME

Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

New Year’s resolutions for a healthy baby: March of Dimes offers tips for women planning a pregnancy

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March of Dimes Foundation Logo

WHITE PLAINS, New York, Dec. 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ – If you’re a woman hoping to get pregnant in the New Year, make an important resolution to be as healthy as you can be in 2018, says the March of Dimes, the nation’s leader in pregnancy and baby health.

March of Dimes Foundation Logo

“Healthy women have the best chance for a full-term pregnancy and a healthy baby,” says Stacey D. Stewart, president of the March of Dimes. “So do all you can to make sure you are healthy, and that your body is ready for pregnancy.”

Top tip from the March of Dimes:  See your healthcare provider in the New Year for a pre-pregnancy checkup. Talk to your provider about ways to prepare for pregnancy and learn things you can do to protect your health and that of your baby.

More tips from the March of Dimes for a healthy baby in your future:

  • Start taking a daily multivitamin containing 400 micrograms of folic acid, a B vitamin. Folic acid every day, beginning before pregnancy and continuing through your pregnancy, is proven to help prevent serious birth defects of the brain and spine. It’s also a good idea to eat foods that contain folate, the natural form of folic acid, including lentils, green leafy vegetables, black beans, and orange juice. The March of Dimes also recommends foods made from enriched grain flour, such as bread, pasta, and cereals; and foods made from enriched corn masa flour, such as cornbread, corn tortillas, tacos, and tamales.
  • Be up-to-date with your vaccinations (shots). Ask your provider about vaccinations you should receive before pregnancy, including the flu shot and pertussis (whooping cough) booster.
  • Learn how to avoid other infections such as Zika virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and sexually transmitted infections.
  • Prevent bites from mosquitoes and other insects by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Consider avoiding travel to areas with Zika virus.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before preparing or eating foods; after being around or touching pets and other animals. If you’re around young children, don’t share food, glasses or utensils and do not put a child’s cup or pacifier in your mouth.

Birth defects affect 1 in every 33 babies born in the United States each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. January is Birth Defects Prevention Month, and the week of January 7-13 is Folic Acid Awareness Week. Join the conversation and learn more on Twitter at hashtag #prevent2protect. Sign up now at Thunderclap to automatically post a message of support and awareness on your social media accounts on January 10: https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/65683-prevent2protect

The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. For nearly 80 years, moms and babies have benefited from March of Dimes research, education, vaccines, and breakthroughs. To learn more about our solutions or donate to the March of Dimes, visit marchofdimes.org and nacersano.org. For detailed national, state and local perinatal statistics, visit peristats.org. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter.

Logo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/513643/March_of_Dimes_Foundation_Logo.jpg

 

SOURCE March of Dimes

Pastor Cash Luna’s new book will be published by Editorial Vida

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NASHVILLE, Tennessee, Dec. 20, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Editorial Vida announced that it will publish the new and highly anticipated new book from Pastor Cash Luna No es por vista. The book is based on key principles, from an entertaining perspective, by which to live truly in faith through “God’s system” rather than “Adam’s system”. The title will be published in English and Spanish, as well as simultaneously in eBook and audio formats.

In the past, Cash Luna has received multiple recognitions for his work from SEPA (Spanish Evangelical Publishers Association). His works En honor al Espíritu Santo and the devotional book 22 días contigo, Espíritu Santo, also published by Editorial Vida, have sold more than half a million copies to date.

The book’s launch will receive a robust publicity program from Editorial Vida, including promotional activities for No es por vista, including media tours and book signings in Miami, Los Angeles, and New York—as well as special events throughout the United States and Latin America.

“I am a human being with weaknesses and defects, but I am also a passionate believer who trusts in the infinite love and grace of God. That has been the foundation of my life,” states Pastor Luna. “This book is part of my legacy. In these pages, I share my life lessons: a thousand experiences, challenges, and blessings when walking by faith, not by sight.”

Larry Downs, Senior Vice-President and Publisher of HarperCollins Español and Editorial Vida, added: “We are excited to publish the latest book by Pastor Cash about the incredible role that faith plays in our lives. We believe that this book will have an even greater impact than his first title, En honor al Espíritu Santo.”

Regarding the content of his book, Pastor Cash Luna said: “It is not a matter of lecturing on blind faith, but about sharing the joy that is experienced by trusting fully in He who has loved us since before we were born. That’s what I want to talk to you about, the full potential of your faith, specifically the power that you experience when you surrender that faith to God.”

Hardcover: 9780829768558
Softcover: 9780829768718
eBook: 9780829768756
Audiobook: 9780829768565

ABOUT CASH LUNA

Pastor Cash Luna graduated with cum laude honors and a degree in Information Systems Administration from the Francisco Marroquin University in Guatemala City. In 2002 he went on to earn a doctorate in Pastoral Ministries from California Christian University. Previously a dedicated businessman, Pastor Luna heard the call of God into the ministry in 1994. Since then, with the help of his wife Sonia, he has pastored Casa de Dios church. It was here that he witnessed a powerful movement emerge called Noches de Gloria, leading crusades of healing and miracles in several countries throughout the continent. Today, Casa de Dios is a prominent church in Guatemala with over 20 thousand active members, organized into small groups. Pastor Luna also presides over the Food Bank, which he founded in 2006 as the social service branch of his church, dedicated to caring for orphans, seniors, and those affected by natural disasters.

ABOUT EDITORIAL VIDA

Editorial Vida, the Spanish division of Zondervan, publishes Bibles, devotional books, and other resources with the goal of promoting a faithful relationship with Jesus Christ. With offices in Nashville and Grand Rapids, Editorial Vida has the largest catalog of Christian products and resources on Hispanic culture—not only in the United States but throughout Latin America and worldwide.

www.editorialvida.com

 

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621588/Editorial_Vida_No_Es_Por_Vista.jpg

 

SOURCE Editorial Vida

Ardent Mills and the National FFA Organization Announce National Partnership

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DENVER, Dec. 20, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Denver-based Ardent Mills, the premier flour-milling and ingredient company, today announced its three-star partnership with the National FFA Organization, formerly known as Future Farmers of America.

As a three-star partner, Ardent Mills will provide monetary support to FFA at the national level, supporting the Living to Serve platform. The Living to Serve platform empowers every student in every classroom to make a positive impact in their community. FFA provides quality programs, resources, recognition and opportunities for members to put leadership into action through service engagement. The partnership will also make connections to local FFA chapters in both rural and urban settings across Ardent Mills’ U.S. and Puerto Rico footprint.

Ardent Mills CEO Dan Dye states, “We are excited to partner with FFA for several reasons. We see alignment in the FFA’s mission and vision to our own vision and values, along with our brand promise of Nourishing what’s next. The FFA has many platforms that will complement areas of focus for Ardent Mills, including safety, hunger, health and nutrition. Each of our U.S. and Puerto Rico community mill sites will have the opportunity to partner with a local FFA chapter within just a few miles of the facility. We are committed to growing this relationship on both the local and national levels over time. Our intent is to make a positive difference in the communities where our team members live and work, identify future frontline leaders and strengthen the agriculture and milling industries.”

“Our vision is to grow our members into leaders who strengthen agriculture while building communities,” says Mark Poeschl, National FFA Organization CEO. “We’re excited about this partnership with Ardent Mills as it allows us to provide resources to local FFA chapters to help them continue the work they are doing through service learning.”

About National FFA Organization
The National FFA Organization is a national youth organization of 653,404 student members as part of 8,568 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The organization is supported by 345,812 alumni members in 2,051 local FFA Alumni chapters throughout the U.S. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The National FFA Organization operates under a federal charter granted by the 81st United States Congress and it is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture. The U.S. Department of Education provides leadership and helps set direction for FFA as a service to state and local agricultural education programs. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook, Twitter and the official National FFA Organization blog.

About Ardent Mills
Ardent Mills is the premier flour-milling and ingredient company whose vision is to be the trusted partner in nurturing its customers, consumers and communities through innovative and nutritious grain-based solutions. Ardent Mills’ operations and services are supported by more than 40 flour mills and bakery-mix facilities along with a specialty bakery and Mobile Innovation Center, all located in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. Deeply rooted in communities throughout North America, Ardent Mills is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, and employs more than 100 certified millers, supporting thousands of local jobs and contributing billions of dollars to local economies. To learn more about Ardent Mills, visit ardentmills.com.  

SOURCE Ardent Mills

¡HOLA! TV increases its presence in the US with two important agreements

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HOLA TV - LOGO

MIAMI, Dec. 20, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — ¡HOLA! TV has signed an important distribution agreement with Altice and COX Communications, which will allow the channel to expand its presence in the competitive US Hispanic market, where it launched in 2014.

HOLA TV - LOGO

With this agreement, ¡HOLA! TV will be able to grow in markets such as New York, Connecticut, New Jersey as well as Pennsylvania, Phoenix, San Diego and Arizona.

Altice and Cox has partnered with ¡HOLA! TV in an effort to offer the US Hispanic audience the best and most exclusive programming, which includes more than 700 hours of original content.

¡HOLA! TV will be available in the package known as “Optimum en Español” (channel 1081) and the Suddenlink platform from Altice. As for COX, their subscribers will be able to access ¡HOLA! TV within the “Contour TV Latino” package.

“We are very happy to partner with these two main providers in a market we believe that is key for our regional growth and also allows us to bring both audience and advertisers an unique and distinctive high-quality content”, said Marcos Pérez, General Manager of ¡HOLA! TV.

About ¡HOLA! TV

¡HOLA! TV is a joint venture between ATRESMEDIA TELEVISION, Spain’s leading media conglomerate company, and ¡HOLA! Magazine, the most respected and exclusive source for news on celebrity, royals, and the elite around the world. Founded in 1944 in Barcelona, ¡HOLA! Magazine boasts 31 editions reaching over 120 countries around the world, and a weekly readership of 20 million worldwide. ¡HOLA! TV programming features the best of ¡HOLA! Magazine reimagined for television, with news, exclusives and special content that mirrors the philosophy and style of the ¡HOLA! brand and prides itself in delivering entertainment with elegance and respect. Coverage includes exclusive access to human interest stories, celebrity and lifestyle-driven programs, and a special focus on news and lifestyles of the royals and the elite around the world. ¡HOLA! TV is headquartered in Miami, Florida, where it also produces daily and weekly original shows.  Other weekly original shows are produced by ¡HOLA! MEDIA and ATRESMEDIA TELEVISION, studios in Madrid, Spain.

Logo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/621715/HOLA_TV_PNG_LOGO_Logo.jpg

 

SOURCE Atresmedia Internacional

Intermex Holdings II, Inc. and FinTech Acquisition Corp. II Announce Merger Agreement Combining Businesses

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MIAMI, Dec. 20, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Intermex Holdings II, Inc., the parent company of Intermex® Wire Transfer, LLC, a technology enabled wire transfer and financial processing solutions provider, and FinTech Acquisition Corp. II (NASDAQ: FNTE) (“FinTech”), announced today that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement with Intermex’s owner, Stella Point Capital, LP (Stella Point Capital), whereby FNTE will acquire Intermex and will be renamed Intermex Wire Transfer, Inc. The merged company is expected to continue to be listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market. Post transaction, Robert (Bob) Lisy, President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and the rest of the existing Intermex management team will continue to lead the company.

Betsy Z. Cohen, Chairman of the Board of Directors of FinTech, said, “We are delighted to partner with Bob Lisy, Chairman and CEO, and his team at Intermex, a leading provider of money transfer services to the Latin America corridor. Since 2013, Bob has driven both growth and profitability, with transaction volume having increased more than 2.5x, and EBITDA experiencing a compound annual growth rate of almost 40%. Intermex is an omnichannel operation whose proprietary technology assures the highest quality of service. The continued expansion of online services, loyalty cards and scalable proprietary processing capacity will drive continued revenue growth and margin expansion. The transformation of this private company will reduce its cost of capital, create a currency for acquisitions, and increase visibility with customers and agents.”

Bob Lisy, President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Intermex commented, “We are excited to be partnering with FinTech in a transaction that provides an efficient path for a successful transformation to a public company. Intermex has developed a unique and differentiated approach to the wire transfer services market that has resulted in significant and sustained market share gains and excess growth relative to industry peers.  Our new capital structure will support our opportunistic growth strategy and our development of new products and technology, which will help scale the business.”

“We want to congratulate Bob Lisy, Randy Nilsen and the rest of the Intermex management team on the achievement of tremendous growth in excess of the market as Intermex has expanded its money remittance services beyond the Southeastern U.S. and into Western and Northern U.S. geographies, including states where there is significant demand for Latin American money transfers,” said Adam Godfrey and Justin Wender, Managing Partners of Stella Point. “We believe that Intermex’s evolution to a public company is a natural next step that will provide significant additional flexibility to capitalize on the numerous growth opportunities available to the company in the years to come.”

The existing members of the Intermex Board of Directors will become directors of the combined company.  The Board of Directors will be augmented by the addition of former Deloitte & Touche LLP partner Mike Purcell, a financial expert as defined under the applicable NASDAQ and SEC rules, and Kurt Holstein, President of Azoic Ventures, Inc. Adam Godfrey, Stella Point Capital Managing Partner, Justin Wender, Stella Point Capital Managing Partner, Robert Jahn, Stella Point Capital Managing Director, Stephen Paul, Laurel Crown Partners, LLC’s Managing Principal, and John Rincon, who founded Intermex in 1994, will continue to serve on the Board of Directors. Additionally, FNTE has the right to appoint one independent board observer.

Intermex Highlights:

  • Intermex operates with both an online and retail presence which includes a sending agent network of more than 5,000 origination points and 33 Company Owned stores throughout the United States.
  • Organic revenues and Adjusted EBITDA compounded annual growth rates (CAGR) of 32% and 35%, respectively, from 2015 to 2017P.
  • Within its core markets of Mexico and Guatemala, Intermex has consistently exceeded the market rate of growth and continues to gain meaningful market share while continuing to expand per transaction margins to Mexico.
  • Systematic and efficient sales strategy that prioritizes agent productivity has resulted in a 12% CAGR of the average number of wires sent per agent between 2011 and 2017P, an approximate 2 times lift in agent productivity in that same time period.
  • Industry leading customer loyalty program drives more engaged and loyal customers when compared to non-enrolled customers.
  • Highly scalable and industry leading technology platform results in repeat sender transactions being completed in half the time of most competitors and a 99.95% historical uptime.
  • Highly complex and rigorous compliance process with real-time Anti-money Laundering (AML) and Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC) screening.

Additional information about Intermex’s operations can be found at www.intermexonline.com. In addition, information about Intermex’s operations and financial performance is contained in the investor presentation (the “Investor Presentation”) furnished today by FNTE via a Current Report on Form 8-K (the “Form 8-K”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which can be viewed at the SEC website at www.sec.gov.

Summary of Merger

FNTE will acquire Intermex for aggregate consideration of approximately $260 million comprised of approximately $99 million in cash and approximately $161 million in FNTE common stock. FNTE will also repay approximately $20 million in debt outstanding under Intermex’s existing credit facility in connection with the merger.

The merger is expected to close in the second quarter of 2018, pending Money Transfer License Approvals, FNTE stockholder approval and other customary closing conditions. Additional information about the merger can be found in the Form 8-K. Interested parties should visit the SEC website at www.sec.gov.  

The description of the transaction contained herein is only a summary and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the merger agreement, a copy of which was filed by FNTE with the SEC as an exhibit to the Form 8-K.

Advisors

Cantor Fitzgerald & Co, JMP Securities and Northland Securities, Inc. are acting as Capital Markets Advisors to FTNE; JMP Securities is also acting as Financial Advisor to FNTE; and Ledgewood is acting as legal counsel to FNTE.  Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson, LLP is acting as legal counsel to Intermex in this transaction. Brenner Kaprosy Mitchell, LLP is acting as legal counsel to Intermex’s management in this transaction.

Conference Call Information

Senior management of FNTE and Intermex Holdings II, LLC will be hosting an investor conference call to allow shareholders an opportunity to hear from management.

Please call in at least 10 minutes prior to the call to register.
Date: December 20, 2017 at 11:00am EDT
Dial:

United States: (800) 288-8960
International: (612) 288-0340
Confirmation Code: 439448

A replay of the call will be available after 12/20/2017 at 12:30PM ET by dialing:

United States: (800) 475-6701
International: (320) 365-3844
Access Code: 439448

About FinTech Acquisition Corp. II

FinTech Acquisition Corp. II is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination. In January 2017, FNTE consummated a $175 million initial public offering (the “IPO”) of 17.5 million units, each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one half of one warrant, at a price of $10.00 per unit. Simultaneously, FNTE consummated the sale of 420,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit in a private placement that generated gross proceeds of $4,200,000. FNTE’s securities are quoted on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the ticker symbols FNTE, FNTEW and FNTEU.

About Stella Point Capital

Stella Point Capital is a New York-based private equity firm focused on industrial, consumer, and business services investments. Founded by Managing Partners Justin Wender and Adam Godfrey, the firm actively seeks investment opportunities throughout North America, working closely with management teams to identify strong market positions and achieve transformational growth. Stella Point’s investment team has over 75 years of combined investing and operating experience, encompassing more than 35 investments, at leading global private equity firms. Stella Point provides unparalleled senior level attention and expertise, seeking to cultivate strong relationships with portfolio companies to generate superior investment returns and significant long-term value. Please visit www.stellapoint.com for additional information.

Note Regarding Intermex Financial Information

Any financial information and data of Intermex contained in this press release is preliminary in nature, is derived from Intermex’s unaudited financial statements and data, is based solely on information available as of the date of this press release and may not conform to the requirements of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on this information and data.  Intermex is continuing to prepare its financial statements for its fourth quarter and fiscal year ending December 31, 2017, and any financial information and data described above are only estimates.  Intermex’s actual results for its fourth quarter and fiscal year ending December 31, 2017 may vary from this preliminary information and data, and are not necessarily indicative of the results to be achieved in any future period.  Additionally, such information and data may be adjusted and presented differently in FNTE’s definitive proxy statement/prospectus to be mailed to security holders.  

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “continue”, “expect”, “estimate”, “may”, “plan”, “outlook”, “future” and “project” and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These statements, which involve risks and uncertainties, relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results and estimates of amounts not yet determinable and may also relate to our future prospects, developments and business strategies. In particular, such forward-looking statements include statements concerning the timing of the merger; the business plans, objectives, expectations and intentions of the public company once the transaction is complete, and Intermex’s estimated and future results of operations, business strategies, competitive position, industry environment and potential growth opportunities. These statements are based on FNTE’s or Intermex’s management’s current expectations and beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions concerning future events.

Such forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside FNTE’s or Intermex’s control that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors include, but are not limited to, (1) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement; (2) the inability to complete the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement due to the failure to obtain approval of the stockholders of FNTE or other conditions to closing in the merger agreement; (3) the ability of the public entity to meet NASDAQ’s listing standards following the merger; (4) the risk that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations of Intermex as a result of the announcement and consummation of the transactions described herein; (5) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed business combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of the combined company to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain relationships with suppliers and retain its management and key employees; (6) costs related to the proposed business combination; (7) changes in applicable laws or regulations; and (8) the possibility that Intermex may be adversely affected by other economic, business, regulatory and/or competitive factors. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements can be found in FNTE’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and subsequently filed quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, which are available, free of charge, at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov., and will also be provided in the registration statement on Form S-4 and FNTE’s proxy statement/prospectus when available. New risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict these events or how they may affect us. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made, and FNTE and Intermex undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Additional Information about the Merger and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed merger, FNTE intends to file with the SEC a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus (which will be included in a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”)). When completed, FNTE will mail a definitive proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders in connection with FNTE’s solicitation of proxies for the special meeting of FNTE stockholders to be held to approve the merger and related transactions. This press release does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the merger. It is not intended to provide the basis for any investment decision or any other decision with respect to the proposed merger. FNTE stockholders and other interested persons are advised to read, when available, FNTE’s preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the amendments thereto, and definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as these materials will contain important information about Intermex, FNTE and the proposed merger. The definitive proxy statement/prospectus will be mailed to stockholders of FNTE as of a record date to be established for voting on the merger and related transactions. Stockholders will also be able to obtain copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC that will be incorporated by reference in the proxy statement/prospectus, without charge, once available, at the SEC’s Internet site at http://www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to: FinTech Acquisition Corp. II, 2929 Arch Street, Suite 1703, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, attention: James J. McEntee, III, telephone 215.701.9555.

Participants in the Solicitation

FinTech Acquisition Corp. II and its directors and officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies to FNTE’s stockholders with respect to the transaction. Information regarding FNTE’s directors and officers is available in FNTE’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, which has been filed with the SEC. Additional information will also be contained in FNTE’s definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the proposed merger when available.

Disclaimer

This communication shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there by any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which the offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act.

Contact:
Bradley Pitts, SVP Marketing and Communications
[email protected] 
(305) 671-8059

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SOURCE Intermex