2017 Honda Pilot Gets Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™

November 4, 2016

TORRANCE, California, Nov. 4, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Honda continues to strengthen its position in the three-row SUV segment with fresh updates to the award-winning Honda Pilot for the 2017 model year. The 2017 Pilot will now be available with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ functionality, a new fingerprint resistant touchscreen and an expanded interior color palette. The 2017 Honda Pilot goes on sale beginning Monday, November 7, with a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP)¹ of $30,595 for LX 2WD and $32,395 for LX AWD.

“The all-new third-generation Pilot has been a huge hit with SUV buyers,” said Jeff Conrad, Honda Division senior vice president and general manager. “For 2017, we’re making Pilot even more appealing with new technology and options that our customers are seeking.”

Honda was among the first automakers to incorporate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, starting with the 2016 Accord and Civic. For 2017, Pilot EX and above trims will now feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality integrated into an improved 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen. These models will also see application of a new coating to reduce the appearance of fingerprints on the screen while retaining high glare resistance. Customer choice is also further enhanced for 2017 with extended availability of a black interior, now available on all trims optioned with the White Diamond Pearl exterior paint (previously available only on Elite).

Since its introduction in the summer of 2015, the Honda Pilot has earned a host of awards and accolades, including being named one of the “Best Cars for the Money” by U.S. News & World Report; “Best SUV of 2016” by Hispanic Motor Press; “Best Family Cars of 2016” by KBB.com, Parents Magazine and Edmunds.com; and as a finalist for 2016 North American Truck/Utility of the Year.

2017 Pilot Pricing and EPA Fuel Economy Ratings

Trim	Wheel Drive	MSRP¹	EPA MPG Rating² (city/highway/combined)
LX	2WD	$30,595	19/27/22
LX	AWD	$32,395	18/26/21
EX	2WD	$33,030	19/27/22
EX	AWD	$34,830	18/26/21
EX w/Honda Sensing	2WD	$34,030	19/27/22
EX w/Honda Sensing	AWD	$35,830	18/26/21
EX-L	2WD	$36,455	19/27/22
EX-L	AWD	$38,255	18/26/21
EX-L w/Honda Sensing	2WD	$37,455	19/27/22
EX-L w/Honda Sensing	AWD	$39,255	18/26/21
EX-L w/Navi	2WD	$37,455	19/27/22
EX-L w/Navi	AWD	$39,255	18/26/21
EX-L w/RES	2WD	$38,055	19/27/22
EX-L w/RES	AWD	$39,855	18/26/21
Touring	2WD	$41,670	20/27/23
Touring	AWD	$43,470	19/26/22
Elite	AWD	$47,070	19/26/22

Family-Friendly Utility
The Pilot builds on its reputation for interior space, versatility and utility with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers and a cargo area that can hold an 82-quart cooler without compromising third-row seating capability. Third-row entry and exit is easy and intuitive courtesy of the available one-touch second-row seat on EX-L and above models, and large third-row entryway.

The Pilot’s center console features a cavernous storage compartment capable of accommodating items as large as a full-size iPad or a purse. And with its seamless cover in the closed position, the console provides a convenient, non-slip surface for items that the driver or front passenger may need close at hand.

Powertrain
The 2017 Pilot delivers refined, powerful and fuel-efficient performance courtesy of its 3.5-liter, direct-injected i-VTEC^® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) cylinder deactivation technology producing peak output of 280 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque.³ The engine is matched to a choice of two advanced transmissions – a 6-speed automatic transmission or, on upper trims, a 9-speed automatic transmission – both delivering refined, responsive and fuel-efficient performance.

These powertrains combine with a light yet rigid unit-body structure and aerodynamically efficient body and chassis designs that result in class-leading EPA fuel economy ratings topping out at 20/27/23 mpg (city/highway/combined) for two-wheel-drive models and 19/26/22 mpg for all-wheel-drive models.²

Intelligent Variable Torque Management (i-VTM4™) AWD System
The Pilot’s available Intelligent VTM4 (i-VTM4) is the most sophisticated and technologically advanced all-wheel-drive system offered in a mainstream, three-row SUV. This entirely more capable system progressively distributes optimum torque between the front and rear axles and dynamically distributes engine torque between the left and right rear wheels. Benefits include superior all-weather handling and neutral, accurate steering under power that is more effective than front-drive, rear-drive or conventional all-wheel-drive systems.

Intelligent Traction Management
All Pilots feature a button-operated Intelligent Terrain Management System that offers different operating modes, for the AWD: Normal, Snow, Mud and Sand; and for the FWD: Normal and Snow. Developed, tuned and tested in challenging locations in the U.S. and around the world – including Imperial Dunes “Glamis”, California; Moscow, Russia; and Dubai, United Arab Emirates – the Intelligent Traction Management system allows the driver to select the operating mode that best suits the driving conditions by simply pushing a button on the vehicle’s center console. Based on the setting selected, the system adjusts the drive-by-wire map, transmission shift map, Vehicle Stability Assist™ and i-VTM4 torque distribution for AWD-equipped models for optimal performance in a variety of road or surface conditions.

Advanced Safety and Assistive Performance
In keeping with Honda’s commitment to safety and driver convenience, the Pilot is available with Honda Sensing™, a suite of technologies designed to expand the driver’s situational awareness while sensing and responding to potential road hazards, including other vehicles, road obstacles and even pedestrians, even to the point of mitigating the possibility or severity of a collision. The Pilot includes a standard Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and an available suite of safety and driver assistive technologies that includes LaneWatch™ display, a blind spot information system, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) system and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.

The 2017 Pilot earned top safety ratings from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), including a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score, and is expected to earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including a GOOD rating in all crash modes and a SUPERIOR rating for front crash prevention. The Pilot incorporates Honda’s next generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, designed to efficiently absorb and disperse the energy from a frontal collision, along with ultra-high-strength door rings designed to help better protect occupants.

Standard safety and driver-assistive features include four-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist; Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA^®) with Traction Control; dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags and side-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions; and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with real-time display of individual tire pressures.

Pilot Manufacturing
The Honda Pilot was designed and developed by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in Los Angeles and Ohio, and is manufactured exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC in Lincoln, Alabama using domestic and globally sourced parts.

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

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for 33 years and currently operates 19 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2015, more than 99 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

¹MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) excluding tax, license, registration, $880 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
²Based on 2017 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.
³ Peak power: 280 HP @ 6000 RPM (SAE net), peak torque: 262 ft-lb (355 Nm) @ 4700 RPM (SAE net)

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Hispanic Vote Endorses Clinton-Kaine

November 4, 2016

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Since launching in 2012, Hispanic Vote has remained dedicated to its mission of enabling and connecting with the >21 million eligible Hispanic voters. Founder, Dennis Garcia, explains how he originally aimed to mobilize Millennial Hispanics, and those who feel their personal conservative ideologies do not align with or are being ignored by both Republican and Democratic parties, to connect, interact and participate in our democratic process.

Hispanic Vote’s efforts in the 2012 campaign—interacting with the leadership of the Conservative Political Action Committee (CPAC), participating in National Voter Registration Day and in grassroots Getting Out the Vote community activities—allowed them to make great strides in raising awareness of opportunities for Hispanics.

“We reminded Hispanics that they are part of our country and part of our national decision-making process,” says Mr. Garcia. “Their voice, collectively and individually, should be heard. Their vote counts and is critical to moulding the future of our country, to providing growth opportunities for individuals, families and small businesses.”

For the 2016 race, Hispanic Vote segued from its previous grassroots efforts to political networking, consulting with both Republican and Democrat politicians and PACs, and with the media, on policy issues important to the Hispanic base, including the economy, healthcare, immigration and education.

It is unprecedented for Hispanic Vote to promote or endorse one party over another. “But,” says Mr. Garcia, “our work, one-on-one experiences and internal polling over the past year has compelled us to endorse the Democratic ticket in general and the Clinton-Kaine ticket in particular.”

In a recent article by Farai Chideya, senior writer for FiveThirtyEight.com, explains “The number of Mexican-American and Latino voters who show up on Nov. 8 could determine the outcome in… state, and possibly in the nation[al elections].” (http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/mexican-americans-are-reshaping-the-electoral-map-in-arizona-and-the-u-s/)

Mr. Garcia concludes with a message to all eligible voters, “Don’t let fear or frustration keep you from the polls on November 8th. Your voice needs to be included in this dialogue that affects you, your children and all of your future generations. Your vote counts.”

CONTACT
Jennifer van Velkinburgh
[email protected]

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(Español) Dan, din, dón las horas del reloj… ¡es momento de cambiar la hora y también las baterías de las alarmas de humo y monóxido de carbono!

November 4, 2016

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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1973 and charged with protecting the American public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency's jurisdiction. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury, call the CPSC hotline at 1-800-638-2772, or visit http//:www.cpsc.gov/talk.html. Further recall information is available at http://www.cpsc.gov.

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National Hispanic Pre-Law Conference Offers Unparalleled Opportunity to Aspiring Latino Lawyers

November 4, 2016

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NEW YORK, Nov. 4, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The National Hispanic Pre-Law Conference will take place from Friday, November 11, 2016 to Saturday, November 12, 2016 at New York University School of Law in New York, New York. This diversity outreach and empowerment event is geared to Latinos interested in becoming lawyers in order to provide them with game-changing “insider” information, resources, and connections to increase their chances of success in the challenging journey ahead to lawyerhood.

This year’s schedule is jam-packed with everything any aspiring lawyer would need to know before deciding to pursue this tough and highly competitive path. During the panel discussions and workshop sessions, key information will be shared about being competitive in the law school admissions process, financing a legal education, preparing for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), writing a compelling personal statement and diversity statement, making the most of the law school experience, navigating difficult diversity and inclusion issues, considering the different career options available to lawyers, and understanding what it really takes to be successful and advance in the legal profession.

During the motivational keynote sessions, several dynamic, well-respected attorneys will serve as featured keynote speakers and share powerful words of wisdom, encouragement and stories of their own personal paths to success. This year’s extraordinary lineup includes Juan Cartagena, Esq., President and General Counsel, LatinoJustice PRLDEF, Pedro J. Torres-Diaz, Esq., President, Hispanic National Bar Association, Rosevelie Marquez Morales, Esq., East Coast Diversity Director, Sidley Austin LLP, The Honorable Javier E. Vargas, Judge, Family Court of the State of New York, NYS Unified Court System, and Benjamin Sanchez, Esq., President, Sanchez Legal Group.

Numerous special guest speakers, who are all influential and visionary leaders, will also participate. In addition, there will be many other knowledgeable and highly accomplished panelists and presenters from all over the nation who will also selflessly take part to provide insight, perspective and guidance to attendees.

The event will also offer its signature one-on-one admissions and preparation advice help clinic, practical assistance session, and professional success coaching. There will be a law fair attracting over 100 law schools and partner organizations. The conference then will end on a high note with the Aspiring Lawyers Pinning Ceremony.

Anyone interested in law school is encouraged to attend this world-class conference. Admission is completely free of charge and open to the public. For more information, visit http://www.hispanicprelawconference.org.

Contact: Evangeline M. Mitchell, 1-281-944-5294, [email protected]

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Mary Kay Inc. Hosts Inaugural Men Don’t Look Away Summit To Engage More Men In Efforts To End Domestic Violence

November 4, 2016

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DALLAS, Nov. 4, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — To inspire a national dialogue about the importance of engaging more men in the effort to prevent and end domestic violence, Mary Kay Inc. convened the inaugural Men Don’t Look Away Summit. Attendees, including domestic violence advocates from across the country, received a framework to engage men as advocates, volunteers and ambassadors at a grassroots level, learning to activate this powerful group of change-makers within their local organizations.

The Men Don’t Look Away Summit was held Nov. 2 at global headquarters for Mary Kay Inc. Alongside Mary Kay executives, representatives from the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), the National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH), the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) and directors from domestic violence shelters across the country convened for the first-of-its-kind summit. Dale Hansen, sports anchor for WFAA-TV and Jan Langbein, Chief Executive Officer for Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support attended to provide both inspiration and action for the attendees.

“Supporting a national dialogue to involve more men in this public health epidemic is critical in our continued efforts to prevent and end domestic violence,” said Jan Langbein, Chief Executive Officer for Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support. “Mary Kay’s Men Don’t Look Away Summit has provided a much-needed platform for women’s shelters, national domestic violence organizations and community leaders to share best practices and ultimately foster a movement of change including a social norm that does not tolerate violence against women.”

Domestic violence is not just a women’s issue. That’s the key message that resonated among more than 850 domestic violence organizations nationwide in Mary Kay’s 2016 Truth About Abuse Survey, which reveals that 9 out of 10 participating agencies have made concerted efforts to involve men in domestic violence prevention. In partnership with Break the Cycle, Mary Kay’s seventh annual Truth About Abuse Survey found that an overwhelming 92 percent of domestic violence organizations believe it’s important to engage men in prevention and education efforts.

“The data revealed in this year’s Truth About Abuse Survey underscores the importance of Mary Kay’s first-ever Men Don’t Look Away Summit,” said Crayton Webb, Vice President of Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility for Mary Kay Inc. “Ending domestic violence is a key tenet of our Mary Kay corporate culture and through hosting this inaugural national summit, we know we are addressing the overwhelming need to encourage more men to become change-makers within their communities while taking a stand against domestic abuse.”

The Men Don’t Look Away Summit and Truth About Abuse Survey are part of Mary Kay’s Don’t Look Away campaign which works to educate the public on recognizing the signs of an abusive relationship, taking action and raising awareness for support services. To date, Mary Kay Inc. and The Mary Kay Foundation℠ have given $53 million to domestic violence prevention and awareness programs in an effort to end the cycle of abuse.

About Mary Kay
Irresistible products. Positive community impact. Rewarding opportunity. For 50 years, Mary Kay has offered it all. With 3.5 million Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants and $4 billion in global annual wholesale sales, Mary Kay is a top beauty brand and direct seller in more than 35 markets around the world. Discover what you love by connecting with a Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant in your area at marykay.com.

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
marykay.com/newsroom
972.687.5332 or [email protected]

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(Español) Samsung retira del mercado lavadoras de ropa de carga superior debido a riesgo de sufrir lesiones por impacto; se ofrecen múltiples remedios a los consumidores

November 4, 2016

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Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

Quick Quack Car Wash Celebrates Grand Opening Of New Amarillo Location With Ten Days Of Free Car Washes

November 3, 2016

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Quick Quack Car Wash - DontDriveDirty.com

AMARILLO, Texas, Nov. 3, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Quick Quack Car Wash, a Roseville, California-based company, has announced the opening of its fifth Amarillo location. The new car wash is located at 1901 Bell Street (at Plains Boulevard) and will be giving away free car washes for ten days to celebrate its Grand Opening from November 9^th through November 18^th. The car wash is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm, but will be closed on Thanksgiving Day (and Christmas Day).

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“Amarillo was home to the very first Quick Quack Car Wash way back in 1999, and is now home to number 28,” said Jason Johnson, CEO of Quick Quack Car Wash. “Our fans in Amarillo will now have five locations to choose from for added convenience and value. We look forward to serving and partnering with the neighboring communities.”

Aside from a big yellow duck named Quackals, Quick Quack Car Wash is best known for its unlimited “wash all you want” car wash memberships, free vacuums and focus on the environment.

Quick Quack Car Wash has a history of sponsoring local events and athletic programs as well as contributing to community groups’ fundraising efforts. Quick Quack is regularly named the favorite or best car wash in the areas where they operate and has been recognized and honored for sustainable business practices and water conservation. Quick Quack has been selected as the “Best of Amarillo” nine years in a row.

About Quick Quack Car Wash
Quick Quack Car Wash has 28 locations in California, Texas, Colorado, and Utah. The Quick Quack Car Wash concept grew from a desire to get cars clean using the best technology and to do it extremely fast. Fully automated and computerized, the high-quality and environmentally-friendly car washing system uses soft cloth and filtered, recycled water. The customer stays in their vehicle while being automatically guided through the car wash where the vehicle is soaked, soaped, washed, polished, rinsed with spot-free water, and dried, all in a matter of minutes. More information is available online at www.DontDriveDirty.com.

Contact:
Travis Kimball
Quick Quack Car Wash
916-256-2384
[email protected]

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Starfish Varadero opens on world-famous Varadero Beach, Cuba

November 3, 2016

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TORONTO, Nov. 3, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Starfish Resorts has expanded its offering of all-inclusive hotels at outstanding value with the addition of the beachfront resort, Starfish Varadero. At this comfortable hotel, guests are invited to enjoy famous Cuban hospitality with spacious accommodations, friendly service and a wide selection of 24-hour all-inclusive amenities.

As value-based Starfish Varadero, the hotel will undergo a number of improvements that include changes to the buffet and à la carte restaurant Atenas, and make ongoing renovations to approximately 100 guestrooms. Starfish Varadero offers 411 well-appointed air-conditioned rooms and a bungalow section that is great for groups and families with connecting rooms. On the resort, multiple swimming pools and a selection of watersports, tennis courts, and fitness facilities ensure that guests of all activity levels have plenty to do. À la carte dining, an international buffet and non-stop beverage service in all five restaurants and six bars is combined with lively entertainment and friendly staff to make a perfect vacation for any group of travelers.

Younger guests can look forward to a centrally located kids club, family-oriented evening entertainment, dedicated children’s pools and more relaxed menus with dining options to suit their tastes. Parents are sure to enjoy relaxing by the expansive pool area and powdery beachfront, while watching their children sample a range of land and non-motorized water sports at no additional charge.

To book, call your travel agent or visit www.starfishresorts.com

About Starfish Resorts
Starfish Resorts is a value-based brand located on the picturesque island nation of Cuba and offers guests a beach or city-centre vacation experience. Cuba is a vibrant paradise that has over 500 kilometers of pristine white sand beaches, breath-taking surroundings, rich culture and a unique heritage. Starfish Resorts provides friendly service, spacious rooms, international culinary classics, one-of-kind entertainment, and an authentic experience for all ages. Perfect for families, couples and singles on quest for a true Cuba all-inclusive vacation, Starfish Resorts believes that you’re the star and deserve to shine bright.

Contact: Natalie Walsh, Public Relations Specialist, Blue Diamond Resorts, +1-647-545-6926, [email protected]

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Atlanta to Host for the First Time the 5th World Salsa Championships December 9 and 10

November 3, 2016

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ATLANTA, Nov. 3, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The 5^thWorld Salsa Championships (WSC) brings the best of best dancers from five continents to the Atlanta Marriott Marquis December 9-10. Dance enthusiasts are invited to witness the spectacle of international salsa finalists competing for the title of world’s best. Attendees also enjoy daily salsa lessons from world renowned dance instructors and nightly parties featuring famous salsa bands. ESPN Deportes and ESPN International will televise the event.

The visually stunning competition features the world’s most accomplished salsa dancers showcasing their moves in five divisions. Elite couples and teams who won or placed in national or international competitions will vie for titles in Salsa On-1 (L.A. Style), Salsa On-2 (Mambo), Cabaret (tricks and lifts permitted), and Teams (six-plus dancers). Plus, for the first time, dancers can compete in a Same Gender division.

Countries represented include the United States, Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Peru, Panama, Ecuador, New Zealand, Slovenia, Italy, Spain and others.

“We are excited to bring to Atlanta world class competition with ‘Olympic’ flavor,” said Noel Roque, President of the World Dance Group, Atlanta-based producers of the event. “Salsa dancing is becoming a global phenomenon and we’ve seen the popularity of salsa dancing explode on TV shows such as ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and ‘Dancing with the Stars.'”

The December 9 after party at 11 p.m. will feature the Havana D’Primera band from Cuba, starting their US tour in Atlanta. On December 10, the competition continues with an 8 p.m. Grand Finale and TV taping for ESPN broadcast and 11 p.m. After-Party featuring Salsa legends Jose Alberto “El Canario” and Ismael Miranda.

Tickets run $50 to $125 and are available at www.worldsalsachampionships.com, www.tickeri.com or via Eventbrite.com. Handling fees may be additional.

The World Dance Group

The World Dance Group is a minority-owned company with the mission of globalizing salsa music. WDG thru its operating company Dance Sports Ventures, LLC, is an Atlanta-based music/sports company that produces large-scale, globally recognized dance sport events that positively impact local economies through tourism and promote health and fitness awareness among participants and the community. The company also operates SalZOOM.com, the first location-based social network and mobile app that provides a new way to discover, communicate and share their salsa experiences worldwide.

Contact: Alison Ilg, Ilg Communications 770-565-5440, [email protected]

Eight HBCU Bands Selected to Perform at 15th Annual Honda Battle of the Bands Celebration

November 3, 2016

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Eight HBCU marching bands will perform at the 15th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase in Atlanta on January 28, 2017

TORRANCE, California, Nov. 3, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Students, alumni and fans of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) rocked the vote for an epic lineup of bands to perform in the 15^th Anniversary Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase on January 28, 2017 at the Georgia Dome.

The 2017 lineup features bands that have historically performed at the annual showcase, plus newcomers who are gearing up for their debut at the marching band event of the year. The following eight bands will perform at the 2017 HBOB Invitational Showcase celebration:

Alabama A&M University, Marching Maroon & White (Southwestern Athletic Conference) – 4^th appearance
Alabama State University, Mighty Marching Hornets (Southwestern Athletic Conference) – 5^th appearance
Benedict College, Marching Band of Distinction (Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) – 1^st appearance
Bethune-Cookman University, Marching Wildcats (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) – 12^th appearance
Jackson State University, Sonic Boom of the South (Southwestern Athletic Conference) – 8^th appearance
North Carolina A&T State University, Blue and Gold Marching Machine (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) – 5^th appearance
Texas Southern University, Ocean of Soul (Southwestern Athletic Conference) – 2^nd appearance
Winston-Salem State University, Red Sea of Sound (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) – 6^th appearance

These bands were selected through a process that included online fan voting, as well as feedback from band directors, HBCU school presidents and Honda representatives. Each of the final eight bands will receive an all-expenses paid trip to the Invitational Showcase, and their universities will receive a $20,000 grant from Honda to support their music education programs. And as a thank-you to all the bands who participated in this year’s voting process, Honda will donate $1,000 to their respective schools’ music programs.

“Honda is excited to have the final eight bands take the field at our fifteenth annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase,” said Alexandra Warnier, Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility for Honda. “We hope fans will join us for this milestone celebration that promises to deliver some fantastic performances.”

Tickets to the HBOB Invitational Showcase are available for purchase on the official website, starting at $10. In addition to performances by the final eight bands, Honda will honor one special nominee with the third annual HBCU Power of Dreams Award at the Invitational Showcase. Students, alumni and fans are invited to nominate exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond to help their HBCU community. Nominations can be submitted online at hondabattleofthebands.com/power-of-dreams through November 14.

Fans can follow each band’s journey to the Georgia Dome via official HBOB social media channels and join the conversation using #HBOB.

Facebook – Facebook.com/HondaBattleoftheBands
Twitter – @The_Honda / Twitter.com/The_Honda
Instagram – @the_honda / Instagram.com/the_honda
YouTube – 2016 Invitational Showcase Highlights

For more information on the 2017 Honda Battle of the Bands and the HBCU Power of Dreams Award, visit HondaBattleoftheBands.com.

About Honda

Honda seeks to be a company that society wants to exist, creating products and technologies that improve the lives of people while minimizing the environmental impacts of its products and business operations to ensure a sustainable future. Honda also is committed to making positive contributions to the communities where it does business, to socially responsible business practices and to the promotion of diversity in its workforce. From Honda’s involvement in STEM education and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) to its support of pediatric brain tumor research and volunteer efforts by Honda associates – including environmental clean-up activities – Honda believes in giving back to the communities where its associates live and work. Learn more at csr.honda.com.

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