Dove Real Beauty Productions and Shonda Rhimes Release “Meet Diana,” A Film About One Woman’s Journey to Rediscovering Beauty in the Face of the Unexpected

September 15, 2017

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., Sept. 15, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — “I’m not interested in hiding it,” says Diana Wright, the subject of the latest film from Dove Real Beauty Productions, referring to her prosthesis. “It’s beautiful. It’s me – and it doesn’t hold me back. In fact, when I look at it I’m reminded that beauty is perseverance in the face of adversity. Beauty is strength. Beauty is confidence. I want my girls to know that.”

Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8179251-dove-real-beauty-shonda-rhimes-meet-diana/

Dove Real Beauty Productions and Creative Director Shonda Rhimes have teamed up to release their third film together titled “Meet Diana.” The 3-minute video shares Diana’s story of unmatched strength and perseverance to reclaim her life as a mother of two girls, athlete and 5^th grade teacher after the unexpected loss of her leg in a car accident. Dove Real Beauty Productions was created in March 2017 with one goal in mind: to shift the power of storytelling from Hollywood into the hands of real women to ensure all women and girls can see their #RealBeauty represented in media and culture. Together with Shonda Rhimes, the brand has brought a 100% female crew to produce this inspiring film that illustrates the power all women have to help the next generation develop confidence in their #RealBeauty.

Meet Diana
Diana’s story may begin with a tragic event but, living up to her superhero namesake, Wonder Woman, she didn’t let it end there. After the loss of her leg in a car accident, Diana was faced with a number of challenges, not only physical in nature but emotional. As Diana healed and became adjusted to using her new prosthetic limb, she also grappled with rehabilitating a confidence in her changed appearance. Diana was immediately resolved to reach goal after goal when it came to her recovery, not only relearning to walk but to run. She continued to push forward in her fitness ambitions and lifts more weight now than she ever could before. She carried the same drive in embracing the changes in her appearance – stepping out into the world with unwavering confidence in the face of an unexpected turn in her beauty journey. In doing so, Diana transformed the way the girls in her life define #RealBeauty.

Diana and the Dove Self-Esteem Project Inspire the Next Generation to Embrace #RealBeauty
We know that 7 in 10 girls today cannot relate to depictions seen across film, TV and media². Dove partnered with Shonda Rhimes to tell the stories of real women who are redefining beauty for themselves because, simply put, girls cannot be what they can’t see. It’s time to see more stories like Diana’s on screen to help expand the definition of beauty for women and girls everywhere.

The Dove Self-Esteem Project was created over 10 years ago to ensure the next generation develops a positive relationship with the way they look – helping girls attain the confidence they need to reach their full potential. Dove believes all women can be a positive inspiration for the next generation by modeling their own beauty with confidence. Over the past decade, the Dove Self-Esteem Project has become the largest provider of self-esteem education in the world, reaching more than 20 million young people with body confidence and self-esteem education. Share “Meet Diana” with the girls in your life to start a conversation about beauty confidence and visit selfesteem.dove.us for tips, articles, and practical advice from experts in self-esteem and girls’ development – together, we can change the lives of an additional 20 million girls with self-esteem education by 2020.

“For 60 years, Dove has listened to and cared for women and girls everywhere. Our research and continued conversations with women around the world tell us that girls are bombarded by images and messages that affect their confidence every single day,” Nick Soukas, Vice President of Marketing at Dove said. “With Dove Real Beauty Productions we’re addressing the issue from the inside out to ensure that women and girls see their real beauty reflected on screen. As the largest provider of self-esteem education worldwide, we invite women to join us by giving them the tools and resources to make a difference in the self-esteem of the girls in their lives. Each of us has the power to to help the next generation develop confidence in their #RealBeauty.”

Empowering the women of tomorrow is up to us – and the beauty legacy we leave them. “Meet Diana” at Dove.com/RealBeauty and share it with the girls in your life. Together, we can ensure that the next generation develops a positive relationship with beauty and has the confidence to reach their full potential.

About Dove
Dove®, manufactured by Unilever, is the No. 1 personal wash brand nationwide. One in every three households uses a Dove® product, which includes beauty bars, body washes, face care, anti-perspirant/deodorants, hair care, styling aids, and Dove® Men+Care™. Baby Dove launched in 2017 with products developed specially for baby’s skin. Dove® is available nationwide in food, drug and mass outlet stores.

About Unilever United States, Inc.
Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of Food, Home Care, Personal Care and Refreshment products with sales in more than 190 countries and reaching 2.5 billion consumers a day. In the United States, the portfolio includes brand icons such as Axe, Ben & Jerry’s, Breyers, Caress, Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy, Country Crock, Degree, Dollar Shave Club, Dove, Good Humor, Hellmann’s, I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!, Klondike, Knorr, Lever 2000, Lipton, Magnum, Nexxus, Noxzema, Pond’s, Popsicle, Promise, Q-tips, Seventh Generation, Simple, St. Ives, Suave, Talenti Gelato & Sorbetto, TIGI, TONI&GUY, TRESemmé and Vaseline. All of the preceding brand names are trademarks or registered trademarks of the Unilever Group of Companies.

Unilever employs approximately 8,000 people in the United States – generating more than $9 billion in sales in 2016.

The Unilever Sustainable Living Plan commits to:

Helping more than a billion people take action to improve their health and well-being by 2020.
Halving the environmental impact of our products by 2030.
Enhancing the livelihoods of millions of people by 2020.

Unilever ranked number one in its sector on the 2016 Dow Jones Sustainability Index.
For more information on Unilever U.S. and its brands visit: www.unileverusa.com
To connect with Unilever U.S. via Facebook visit: www.facebook.com/unileverusa
To connect with Unilever U.S. via Twitter follow: @unileverusa

¹ Dove Stopgap Junior Global Report 2010
² The Dove Global Beauty and Confidence Report 2016

CONTACT:
Sherria Cotton / Edelman
917.344.4761
[email protected]

SOURCE Dove

Yolo Rum Wins Multiple Medals at 2017 New York World Wine and Spirits Competition

September 15, 2017

Yolo Rum - You Only Live Once... Be extraordinary, drink extraordinary rum!

DENVER and NEW YORK, Sept. 15, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Yolo Rum‘s premier blend, Yolo Rum Gold, won a gold medal at the 2017 New York World Wine and Spirits Competition. And that was just the first of three medals Yolo Rum took home from the competition held at the Education and Conference Center at the New York Academy of Medicine on August 23^rd and 24^th. Yolo Rum Silver and Yolo Rum Clear both received silver medals as well.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/552233/Yolo_Rum_Wins_Multiple_Medals.jpg

“There is always some trepidation when you enter a new competition,” says Yolo Rum founder Philip Guerin. “But we’re proud of our rum, we think it stacks up against any rum in the world and it’s gratifying when an outside, legitimate source confirms that belief.”

The New York World Wine and Spirits Competition (NYWWSC), the San Francisco International Wine Competition and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition are considered the “Triple Crown” of contests of their kind. Judges for the NYWWSC come from the ranks of the top food and beverage buyers, beverage directors, writers, educators, columnists, sommeliers, chefs and U.S. Bartenders Guild mixologists.

With its wins at NYWWSC, Yolo Rum continues an impressive, award-winning run at industry expositions and competitions. Yolo Rum has received multiple Best-of-Class wins from Spirits of the Americas, won multiple gold medals at the Denver International Spirits Competition and taken home more gold medals at the Miami Rum Renaissance Festival. Now they add three more medals to the trophy case.

At the heart of the Yolo Rum operation is master distiller Francisco “Don Pancho” Fernandez. Born in Cuba and operating out of the Republic of Panama, Don Pancho is the world’s most-respected and honored ronero (that’s “rum blender,” for the layman). The recipient of hundreds of awards, Francisco “Don Pancho” Fernandez is acclaimed worldwide as the ultimate practitioner of his craft and recognized as a man who elevates the trade of rum making to high art. Yolo Rums are gluten free, with no added sugar or molasses and no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, and the company produces its products using revolutionary environmentally sustainable processes. Offering boutique quality at exceptional value, Yolo Rum is the ideal synthesis of ancient crafts and modern tastes.

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/488493/Yolo_Rum_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Yolo Rum

(Español) Para el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, una advertencia de salud importante

September 15, 2017

Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

Three Nationwide Catastrophe Response Units now open to help Irma-affected members

September 14, 2017

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ —

Who:	Nationwide claims associates and members

What:	Nationwide Catastrophe Response Units

	The CRUs serve two purposes: They provide a central location for Nationwide members in impacted areas to speak face-to-face with our claims team, and they serve as a mobile headquarters for Nationwide claims associates who are on the ground to help members affected by Irma.

When:	Starting today, Sept. 14, 2017

Where:	Florida locations

	The Home Depot 4403 Millennia Plaza Way Orlando, Fla. 32839 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. weekdays 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekends

	Lowe’s 12945 Atlantic Blvd. Jacksonville, Fla. 32225 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. weekdays 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekends

	Georgia location

	The Home Depot 875 Lawrenceville Suwane Road Lawrenceville, Ga. 30043 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Interview Opportunities: Contact David Gilligan [email protected] or (614) 677-7305 to arrange interviews at each location.

About Nationwide

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor’s. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, commercial, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; banking and mortgages; pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

Nationwide, Nationwide is on your side and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

Contact:
David Gilligan
(614) 677-7305
[email protected]

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/319751/nandeagle_vert_oys_3c_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Nationwide

Big Air Trampoline Park Presents First West Coast Laser Maze

September 14, 2017

LAGUNA HILLS, California, Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Big Air Trampoline Park, voted parentingOC Magazine’s Best Birthday Place two years in a row, is excited to announce its new attraction, The Laser Maze at Big Air. It will be the first trampoline laser maze on the West Coast and adding to Big Air’s exciting mix of attractions.

Video – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/556467/The_Laser_Maze_at_Big_Air.mp4

For More Information on Attractions, Click Here: http://www.bigairusa.com/laguna-hills/attractions/.

“Big Air prides itself on consistent innovation and staying ahead of industry trends,” says Kevin Odekirk, President of Big Air. “This west-coast-first trampoline laser maze is a great example of that. We’re thrilled!”

The Lazer Maze will feature multiple games and difficulty levels, providing guests of all ages with an exciting and challenging experience. Players are challenged with bouncing their way across a dark room filled with a dense field of lasers, without breaking any laser beams. Making the attraction even more challenging, this will be the first laser maze on the West Coast to incorporate trampolines. A leaderboard showcases all-time high scores, and all the excitement can be viewed while waiting in line as digital monitors display a live feed of the action.

“Since our company was founded, we’ve always looked for exciting and innovative ways to serve our guests,” says Greg Briggs, Big Air Founder and former VP of Wild Rivers Waterpark in Irvine. “Part of this is our ongoing commitment to enhancing our attraction lineup, and this new experience does just that.”

The attraction’s opening weekend will include raffles, a social media contest, and more. A special preview event for active Big Air members will take place on September 21st from 1-9 p.m.

About Big Air Trampoline Park
Southern California-based Big Air Trampoline Park^® is making leaps and bounds in the family entertainment industry. Founded in 2012, Big Air is led by an executive team with over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry. With trademarked attractions like Battlebeam^®, events like Toddler Time^®, and an award-winning birthday party program, Big Air offers an experience that is second-to-none. Big Air’s California locations are in Buena Park and Laguna Hills and are open daily. For information on birthday packages, hours, franchising opportunities, and more, visit bigairusa.com.

Media: For more information, contact
Tyler Neill at [email protected] or (909) 528–8414

SOURCE Big Air Trampoline Park

Hennessy Partners With Golden Boy Promotions To Celebrate “Canelo” Alvarez & Shared Commitment To Country & Family

September 14, 2017

Hennessy Celebrates "Canelo" Alvarez & Their Shared Commitment to Country & Family

NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Hennessy, the world’s best-selling Cognac, and Golden Boy Promotions, the first national Hispanic-owned boxing promotional company, announce formal partnership that brings to life the spirit of Hennessy’s “Never stop. Never settle.” mantra, with content that tells the remarkable story of Saul “Canelo” Álvarez. Like Hennessy, the Mexican boxer epitomizes the importance of family and the pursuit of excellence.

The integrated partnership features original content, in addition to digital micro-videos, special events, and cross-channel promotions intended to inspire others to “Never stop. Never settle.”

The similarities between Hennessy and Golden Boy are striking: both truly live by the “Never stop. Never settle.” mantra and recognize the importance of community and family in building a successful and enduring legacy. As the youngest of seven brothers, all of whom are professional boxers, Canelo is the only one to become a world champion. He and his Golden Boy network represent an enduring love for the sport of boxing and a dedication to family and country, much like the Hennessy family itself.

“For me, boxing isn’t just a passion – it’s a family legacy,” said Canelo. “Working with my Golden Boy team and Hennessy is the perfect way to celebrate that. It is my time to inspire others with my ‘Never stop. Never settle.’ story.”

In recognition of the millions of boxing fans that will be cheering across the globe this weekend, Hennessy recommends enjoying this Canelo-inspired cocktail while viewing at home:

Citrus Cross

1 ½ oz. Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège Cognac
½ oz. Triple sec or orange liqueur
Splash orange juice
Top with lemon-lime soda

Combine Hennessy, orange liqueur, and orange juice in a rocks glass with ice; top with lemon-lime soda.

For more information, visit Hennessy.com or Facebook.com/Hennessy.

About Hennessy
In 2017, the Maison Hennessy celebrates over two and half centuries of an exceptional adventure that has linked two families, the Hennessys and the Fillioux, for seven generations and spanned five continents. It began in the French region of Cognac, the seat from which the Maison has constantly passed down the best the land has to give, from one generation to the next. In particular, such longevity is thanks to those people, past and present, who have ensured Hennessy’s success both locally and around the world. Hennessy’s success and longevity are also the result of the values the Maison has upheld since its creation: unique savoir-faire, a constant quest for innovation, and an unwavering commitment to Creation, Excellence, Legacy, and Sustainable Development. Today, these qualities are the hallmark of a House – a crown jewel in the LVMH Group – that crafts iconic and prestigious Cognacs.

Hennessy is imported and distributed in the U.S. by Moët Hennessy USA. Hennessy distills, ages and blends spanning a full range: Hennessy V.S, Hennessy Black, V.S.O.P Privilège, X.O, Paradis, Paradis Impérial and Richard Hennessy. For more information and where to purchase/ engrave, please visit Hennessy.com

About Golden Boy Promotions
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by 10-time world champion in six divisions Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy Promotions is one of boxing’s most active and respected promoters, presenting shows in packed venues around the world and has worked with networks such as HBO, Estrella TV, ESPN, TeleFutura, FOX Sports 1, FOX Deportes, Televisa and TV Azteca. The company has also promoted some of the top boxing events in the history of the sport including De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Mayweather vs. Canelo and other notable pay-per-view fights featuring fan-favorites Canelo Alvarez, Bernard Hopkins, Juan Manuel “Dinamita” Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Marco “Baby Faced Assassin” Antonio Barrera, Erik “El Terrible” Morales and Sugar Shane Mosley.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow on Instagram and Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing and like on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.

Photo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/555941/Hennessy___Canelo_Alvarez.jpg
Photo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/555946/Hennessy___Celebrates_Canelo.jpg
Photo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/555945/Hennessy_Alvarez__Commitment_to_Country_Family.jpg
Photo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/555943/Hennessy_Citrus_Cross.jpg
Logo – http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539512/Hennessy_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Hennessy

Discover Even More Magic This Holiday Season at Walt Disney World Resort

September 14, 2017

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Florida, Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Walt Disney World Resort is the place to be this holiday season as theme parks and resort hotels sparkle with jolly decorations that bring the spirit of the season to life. Here’s a sampling of the holiday fun in store for guests:

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/556454/Walt_Disney_World_Resort.jpg

Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Guests can get wrapped up in a Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios from Nov. 9-Dec. 31, with exciting new holiday happenings around the park and the return of the nighttime projection and fireworks show “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!”

NEW! Sunset Seasons Greetings – This new holiday experience features spectacular projections of Mickey, Minnie and other beloved Disney characters sharing their favorite Christmas stories as a snowy Sunset Boulevard twinkles with stunning holiday decorations. Holiday magic brings billboards to life and transforms the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel into scenes of the season – a giant pile of Christmas gifts, a gingerbread house and a frozen winter wonderland! A frosty summer-loving snowman might even make an appearance to share his holiday wish! This fantastic and heartwarming experience runs continuously throughout the night.
NEW! Enhanced holiday décor around Echo Lake – Extra-large ornaments, colorful garlands and a giant Christmas tree centered on the water will make Echo Lake the merriest of places this holiday season. Even Dinosaur Gertie will be dressed for the occasion with a dino-sized Santa hat.
“Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” Returns – The hit holiday show returns Nov. 9 sending beloved Disney animated characters on a spirited yuletide adventure to get Santa back to the North Pole in time for Christmas Eve. “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” combines state-of-the-art projections, fireworks, special effects and Christmas music to create a dazzling, one-of-a-kind holiday experience for guests – capped by a special message from Santa himself.
“Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” Dessert Party – Guests can wrap up their jolly holiday evenings with reserved viewing of the “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” nighttime spectacular. The nightly party includes holiday-inspired snacks, delicious desserts, wine, beer, and specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. A surprise Disney character will also join the fun, posing for pictures and signing autographs. This fun-filled special event is offered Nov. 9-Dec. 30, 2017. Book online at DisneyWorld.com/dining or call (407) WDW-DINE.
A new friend joins the cast of ‘For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration’ – Holiday fun continues at the Hyperion Theater as Anna, Elsa and Kristoff welcome Olaf to this popular sing-along celebration. Just for the holidays the show will include all-new songs from Disney’s new animated short “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure.”
Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood and Vine – Meet Minnie, Mickey, Daisy, Donald and Goofy for lunch and dinner celebrations centered on seasonal deliciousness. From Nov. 6-Jan. 7, the mouse-with-the-mostest will deck the halls for a banquet filled with holiday cheer and the joy of the season! To make a reservation, check availability and book online visit DisneyWorld.com/dining or call (407) WDW-DINE.
Santa Claus returns to the Once Upon a Time shop Nov. 9-Dec. 24 – The beautiful vintage setting of the Once Upon a Time shop recalls bygone days of Santa’s visits to great department stores across the country. Santa will be at the shop daily to greet guests and listen to holiday wishes. Santa Goofy will step in Dec. 25-Dec. 31 after Old Saint Nick returns to the North Pole.

Epcot
Holidays Around the World is transforming into the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays from Nov. 9-Dec. 30, surrounding guests once again in the wondrous sights, sounds and flavors of the season.

NEW! Holiday Kitchens – The number of holiday kitchens doubles in size this year to a total of 15, each bringing the flavors of the season to life. New this year, guests can indulge in cookies and desserts at the holiday kitchen located inside the Odyssey complex. Sweet treats include snowflake sugar cookies and a warm apple fritter with cinnamon ice cream and caramel sauce. Over at the Canada pavilion, dazzling delicacies like the Maple Buche de Noel (maple mousse rolled in gingerbread chiffon cake with cranberry sauce and pecan crumble) celebrate holiday traditions from the Great White North.
NEW! Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree – Chip and Dale are collecting ornaments for their Christmas tree. Guests can purchase a map and stickers from select merchandise locations and travel around World Showcase looking for the famous chipmunks with their ornaments. Guests can return their completed maps for a festive surprise, courtesy of Chip and Dale. Maps are available for $5.99 plus tax.
NEW! Candlelight Processional Narrators – One of the most popular Epcot traditions returns with new celebrity narrators in 2017. Pat Sajak, Matt Bomer and CCH Pounder will join the lineup of returning favorites like Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg and Jaci Velasquez. The Candlelight Processional is a retelling of the Christmas story as told by a celebrity narrator accompanied by 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. The show takes place at the America Gardens Theatre each evening at 5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Nov. 24-Dec. 30. Candlelight dinner packages can be reserved by visiting DisneyWorld.com/holiday.
NEW! Holiday Entertainment – Enjoy the sights and sounds of the nations of World Showcase, as each country’s holiday heritage comes to life amid joyful music and time-honored traditions. Guests will discover an entertaining celebration of Hanukkah in a new location along World Showcase promenade, where a fun and interactive band interweaves the music of Hanukkah with jazz, Latin, rock and even hip-hop influences. Other returning holiday favorites include JOYFUL! A Gospel Celebration of the Season and Canadian Holiday Voyageurs.
Fireworks Finale – The nightly fireworks display, IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, will feature a special holiday ending.

Magic Kingdom

A Frozen Holiday Wish – Behold an enchanting performance to melt a frozen heart. Royal sisters Anna and Elsa lead a celebration on the Castle Forecourt Stage nightly Nov. 9-Dec. 31. Featuring special appearances by rugged mountain man Kristoff and lovable snowman Olaf, this merry-and-bright seasonal show culminates in Queen Elsa using her incredible powers to present a gift to everyone in the kingdom – transforming Cinderella Castle into a glimmering, shimmering ice palace for the holidays.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – It’s a Christmas party like no other, with joyous music, a shimmering Cinderella Castle, characters in their festive finery and the Magic Kingdom decked out and made even more magical for merry-making guests of all ages. Each specially ticketed, limited-attendance event features an exclusive performance of Holiday Wishes fireworks and the earliest performances of other spectaculars like Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, the Frozen Holiday Wish castle-lighting ceremony and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show. The special party – complete with cookies, cocoa and snow flurries – begins at 7 p.m., after regular park hours. Parties will be held on November 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 26 and 28, and December 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21 and 22.
For more information and to purchase tickets for this after-hours party, visit DisneyWorld.com/Christmasparty.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade – This enchanting holiday pageant sings and dances its way through the Magic Kingdom park daily Dec. 23-Dec 31. It also makes a special appearance at each Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Brimming with magic and cheer, the parade features Santa Claus, gingerbread men, elves, reindeer, toy soldiers and other friends from the North Pole. They all join Mickey and friends – including Arendelle favorites Anna, Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf – in an over-the-top celebration of the season.
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration – From Dec 23-Dec. 31, Mickey and Minnie take to Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage where they host some of their Disney friends for an unforgettable Christmas soiree filled with classic and contemporary holiday songs. Magical holiday projections on Cinderella Castle build to a sensational, snowy finale. Performances are also featured during each Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom
It’s a wild holiday time as decorations around the park frame new day-into-nighttime experiences, including Tree of Life transformations, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Kali Rivers Rapids and Expedition Everest. Guests will be greeted by a dramatic, animal-themed holiday tree, and festive garlands will have the park all a-glow with merriment.

Disney Springs
Every corner of Disney Springs is wrapped and ready for the season with holiday décor and special entertainment, making it the most wonderful place to shop. From top name-brands to cozy one-of-a kind retailers and, of course, all things Disney, there’s something for everyone. Busy shoppers can also take a break and enjoy a quick snack on the go or an unforgettable meal at one of Disney Springs many talked-about restaurants.

Here’s a sampling of what’s new:

NEW! An Even Bigger Christmas Tree Trail – To capture the spirit of the season, Marketplace guests can stroll among custom decorated holiday trees, each dedicated to a popular Disney theme. This year, the Christmas Tree Trail will expand to include ten new trees inspired by Disney classics such as Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, Snow White and Dumbo.
Santa’s Chalet – Santa Claus is accepting Christmas wish lists and welcoming guests to his chalet newly located by the Christmas Tree Trail. From Dec. 25-Dec. 31, Santa Goofy will take over after Old Saint Nick heads back to the North Pole.
Stitch’s Holiday Gift Hunt – The mischievous experiment 626 returns to Disney Springs with an expanded scavenger hunt now featuring four new stops, including a special stop at the expanded Christmas Tree Trail.

Holiday Fun beyond the Parks:
The warmth of the holiday season brings cheer to more than 25 Disney resorts.

Every resort across Walt Disney World is decked out for the holidays. Entertainment abounds, including carolers performing on select nights at many resorts.

At Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, guests can take in the grandeur of quintessential Pacific Northwest yuletide cheer beneath the towering lobby Christmas tree, as they cozy up to the fire and relax with a cup of hot cider and snack on holiday treats. They can also relax lakeside and enjoy a seasonal cocktail at Geyser Point Bar & Grill, then settle around the campfire with s’mores and hot chocolate at nightfall.
At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, the Hoop-de-Doo Musical Revue spruces up for the season with live holiday music by the Pioneer Hall Players, including favorites like “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” and “Another Tennessee Christmas.” On select nights, the campground’s beloved carolers arrive by hay wagon spreading holiday cheer to all.

Resort guests can also experience life-sized edible creations at select Walt Disney World Resorts.

An annual treat, at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, is a life-sized holiday gingerbread house. This eye-filling (and aromatic) sight is in the resort lobby and is home to The Bake Shop that uses a classic gingerbread recipe from Austria for its tasty cookies and ornaments.
A life-sized, edible spinning carousel is a holiday tradition at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, while a holiday village with miniature train takes center stage at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Three all-new New Year’s Eve Celebrations coming to Disney’s Contemporary Resort:

“Disney Countdown to Midnight” includes delightful dining, live music, libations and more. An interactive band and DJ will fill the dance floor (and we hear that Mickey and Minnie may make a special appearance). Then welcome in 2018 with a flute of bubbly and a viewing of those legendary New Year’s Eve fireworks in Magic Kingdom Park. Hours are 8 p.m. to 12:15 a.m. in the Fantasia Ballroom. This party is designed for guests 18 and older.
PIXAR PARTY– A New Year’s Eve Celebration: This party celebrates beginnings with a Disney Pixar-inspired dinner the entire family is sure to enjoy. This unique celebration lets families ring the New Year together. It features a buffet-style dinner, Disney characters, activities for the little ones, a trendy DJ and exclusive viewing of Magic Kingdom fireworks!
“Down in New Orleans: A Disney New Year’s Eve Dining Experience” in the Grand Republic Ballroom is a fine-dining experience inspired by the Disney animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” Toward the end of the evening an amazing vocalist, reminiscent of Tiana, joins the band to bring to life the Academy Award-winning classics of legendary composer, Randy Newman. Guests can then slip outside with a glass of bubbly just before midnight to ring in 2018 with a private viewing area for the Magic Kingdom Park fireworks. Hours are 7 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.

No holiday is complete without a special dining experience. Holiday menus that celebrate the season can be found at restaurants throughout Walt Disney World Resort. For holiday dining information and reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE.

SOURCE Walt Disney World Resort

Canada Life Reinsurance enters into £1.7bn longevity risk reinsurance agreement with MMC U.K. Pension Fund

September 14, 2017

ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Canada Life Reinsurance is pleased to announce that it has recently entered into a long term reinsurance agreement to cover the longevity risk on £1.7 billion of liabilities for approximately 7,500 pensioner members of the Marsh & McLennan Companies (MMC) U.K. Pension Fund. This transaction was written by the Barbados Branch of Canada Life via a reinsurance agreement with Guernsey based captive insurer cells managed by Marsh Guernsey.

Tom O’Sullivan, General Manager of the Barbados Branch of Canada Life commented “I am pleased to announce this major reinsurance agreement, which reflects our ability to collaborate effectively with the MMC U.K. Pension Fund to create a solution to efficiently hedge their longevity risk.”

Jeff Poulin, Global Head of Canada Life Reinsurance, added “This transaction highlights our expertise in underwriting large, complex and innovative risk transfer initiatives together with the value of our financial strength.”

Canada Life Reinsurance offers a range of innovative risk and capital management solutions covering mortality, longevity, health and lapse risks for insurers, reinsurers and pension funds across the U.S. and Europe. Canada Life Reinsurance continues to develop innovative reinsurance solutions it offers to insurers and reinsurers in many European markets including the Netherlands, the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Belgium and Ireland.

About Canada Life

Canada Life is part of a group of companies owned by Great-West Lifeco Inc., a diversified financial services holding company headquartered in Winnipeg, Canada. Great-West Lifeco and its insurance subsidiaries have received strong ratings from major rating agencies.

About Great-West Lifeco
Great-West Lifeco Inc. is an international financial services holding company with interests in life insurance, health insurance, retirement and investment services, asset management and reinsurance businesses. Great-West Lifeco has operations in Canada, the United States and Europe through Great-West Life, London Life, Canada Life, Irish Life, Great-West Financial and Putnam Investments. Great-West Lifeco and its companies have £809 billion (over C$1.3 trillion) in consolidated assets under administration as of June 30, 2017 and are members of the Power Financial Corporation group of companies. To learn more, visit www.greatwestlifeco.com.

Contact: Tom O’Sullivan, F.S.A., F.C.I.A., M.A.A.A., General Manager and Actuary, Canada Life (Barbados Branch), T: 246-227-1025 | C: 246-266-8651

SOURCE Canada Life Reinsurance

FDA Encourages Juice Safety This Fall

September 14, 2017

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Logo

SILVER SPRING, Md., Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — As fall arrives, so do drives in the country and drinking fresh-squeezed juices and cider. Unfortunately, serious outbreaks of foodborne illness, often called “food poisoning,” have been traced to drinking fruit and vegetable juice and cider that have not been pasteurized or otherwise treated to kill harmful bacteria. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reminds consumers this fall to read the label carefully on juice and cider products.

Learn more at:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodborneIllnessContaminants/BuyStoreServeSafeFood/ucm110526.htm

Juices provide many important nutrients, but consuming untreated juices can pose health risks to your family. When fruits and vegetables are fresh-squeezed or used raw, bacteria from the produce can end up in your juice or cider. Unless the produce or the juice has been treated to destroy any harmful bacteria, the juice could be contaminated. While most people’s immune systems can usually fight off the effects of foodborne illness, children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems (such as transplant patients and individuals with HIV/AIDS, cancer, and diabetes) risk serious illnesses or even death from drinking untreated juices.

Most of the juice sold in the United States is pasteurized (heat-treated) to kill harmful bacteria. Juice products may also be treated by non-heat processes for the same purpose. However, some grocery stores, health food stores, cider mills, farmers’ markets, and juice bars sell packaged juice that was made on site that has not been pasteurized or otherwise processed to ensure its safety. These untreated products should be kept under refrigeration and are required to carry the following warning on the label:

WARNING: This product has not been pasteurized and therefore may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness in children, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems.

However, FDA does not require warning labels on juice or cider that is fresh-squeezed and sold by the glass, such as at apple orchards, farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and juice bars.

Follow these simple steps to prevent illness when purchasing juice:

Look for the warning label to avoid the purchase of untreated juices. You can find pasteurized or otherwise treated products in your grocers’ refrigerated sections, frozen food cases, or in non-refrigerated containers, such as juice boxes, bottles, or cans. Untreated juice is most likely to be sold in the refrigerated section of a grocery store.
Don’t hesitate to ask if you are unsure if a juice product is treated, if the labeling is unclear, or if the juice or cider is sold by the glass.

Foodborne Illness: Know the Symptoms

Consuming dangerous foodborne bacteria will usually cause illness within 1 to 3 days of eating the contaminated food. However, sickness can also occur within 20 minutes or up to 6 weeks later. Symptoms of foodborne illness include: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flu-like symptoms (such as fever, headache, and body ache). If you think that you or a family member has a foodborne illness, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Contact: Media: 1-301-796-4540 Consumers: 1-888-SAFEFOOD (toll free)

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/471851/317925_FDALogo_Black_1yHigh_Logo.jpg

SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Genius Plaza Unveils Educational Resources for Hispanic Heritage Month Including Profiles of Key Latino Professionals

September 14, 2017

CLIFTON PARK, N.Y., Sept. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Genius Plaza, a leading digital educational company providing didactic learning resources for grades Pre-K to 12, today unveiled educational resources in English and Spanish for Hispanic Heritage Month, including animations, games, eBooks, vocabulary sets, comprehension exercises, and non-fictional sets for Latinos in STEAM careers.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/555911/Genius_Plaza_STEAM_Resources.jpg

“We are committed to ensuring that more than 95% of our content reflects diversity,” said Michelle Emirzian, Chief Academic Officer at Genius Plaza. “We want to be sure our students celebrate all cultures, and also see themselves in the content we provide, including the profiles of professionals in STEAM careers.”

Genius Plaza provides supplemental resources to help inspire students. Available resources not only include content featuring Latino professionals in STEAM careers in English and Spanish, but also learning resources about the seven countries celebrating their independence during Hispanic Heritage Month: Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua.

There are 58.6 million Hispanics in the United States, according to Pew Research Center. Hispanic Heritage Month has been celebrated from September 15th to October 15th since President Ronald Reagan expanded the celebration from one week in 1988. According to the Hispanic Heritage Month website created by the Library of Congress, in 1968, President Lyndon Johnson began the celebration as Hispanic Heritage Week.

About Genius Plaza
Genius Plaza is the first multicultural education company that provides culturally relevant math, language arts, and science resources combined with a research-based didactic approach and state-of-the-art parent engagement tools in eight languages. Genius Plaza brands include Plaza Bilingüe and Genius Explorer.

Media Contact: Monica Talan, 518-280-9550, [email protected]

SOURCE Genius Plaza

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