Humans of Havana Celebrates Cubans’ Real Lives, Adorned with Images and Mini-Narratives

September 13, 2016

MIAMI, Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — HumansOfHavana.com is a photo blog website that captures the real lives and feelings experienced by average Cubans found in the streets of Havana through candid portraits and mini-narratives.

Based on the work of Brandon Stanton’s hugely popular Humans of New York, Humans of Havana adds to the collection of various “humans of” sites sprouting up all over the world.

“Humans of Havana was the best way I could find to expose people outside Cuba to all the wonderful qualities of ordinary Cubans. Regardless of your beliefs and values, connecting to other people through candid images and short, honest dialogue is really one of the highest purposes of the Internet as a communication medium – a way to illustrate our shared humanity,” says Simons Chase, the human behind Humans of Havana and editor-in-chief and co-founder of the Cuba Journal.

Mr. Chase has been involved in developing a media company about Cuba for the last two years. Frustrated with an endless stream of images narrowly focused on Cuba’s antique cars and beaches, he decided to dedicate resources to his Humans of Havana project as a challenge inspired by the resilience and creativity he discovered in Cubans themselves.

“Considered separately, the stories tell individual experiences, but together, they form a broader narrative of the human experience and the ways in which Cubans’ lives are similar to our own despite differences in material possessions. Cuba is portrayed as many things in the media, but the truth is that Cuba is a country with eleven million people. It’s the people that count,” adds Mr. Chase.

The photographer behind Humans of Havana is a Havana-native with a background in art, film and photography. It took months of collaboration to develop the site and get the photographer comfortable with convincing strangers in the streets of Havana to share in an authentic way.

“The feedback about the site has been amazing. The kaleidoscope of changes ahead will no doubt find an expression on the Humans of Havana website – so I look forward to documenting this epic evolution directly through the people themselves,” says Mr. Chase.

Humans of Havana’s website: http://www.humansofhavana.com

(Español) BLACK+DECKER retira del mercado sopladoras/aspiradoras/trituradoras de hojas eléctricas debido a riesgo de laceraciones

September 13, 2016

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(Español) Ingresos, pobreza y cobertura de seguro médico en los Estados Unidos: 2015

September 13, 2016

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Harris County Toll Road Authority receives IBTTA 2016 Toll Excellence Award

September 13, 2016

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Mr. Gary Trietsch (right), Executive Director of Harris County Toll Road, received the IBTTA 2016 Toll Excellence Award. He is pictured here with David Machamer, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, chair of IBTTA's Toll Excellence Award Program.

HOUSTON, Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) accepted top honors in the technology category from the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) during the 84^th Annual Meeting and Exhibition in Denver, CO.

HCTRA’s innovative Rapid Alert System (RAS) technology was developed to enhance toll enforcement efforts by identifying and alerting law enforcement to prohibited vehicles on Harris County’s toll road system.

The uniqueness of the RAS system is that it identifies prohibited vehicles on the road and generates a real-time electronic alert which includes an image of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and the amount of money owed in toll violations and fees. The alert is electronically routed to HCTRA’s custom developed computer-aided dispatch software called the Incident Management System (IMS). The IMS system also automatically sends the RAS alerts including a color violation image to the deputies’ laptop computers in their patrol vehicles based on the deputies’ proximity to the prohibited vehicle. They can also click on the image to enlarge the photo for better viewing.

Toll road deputies can now strategically position themselves and use the IMS system on their laptops to configure custom toll violation alerts based on tolling locations and direction of travel. This program is also augmented by ten (10) mobile license plate recognition (LPR) cameras mounted on patrol vehicles.

“This innovative program has been a great tool to our organization and enhances the high level of service we strive to provide all of our toll road drivers. I am proud of the team members who spearheaded this project,” said Gary Trietsch, Executive Director.

HCTRA has been at the forefront of innovative approaches in the tolling industry. In 2005 it garnered the IBTTA Operations award for building the nation’s first-of-its kind all electronic toll facility and in 2009 it garnered the IBTTA Operations award for its Wrong Way Detection System which continues to save lives.

For more information, please visit www.hctra.org.

About HCTRA

The Harris County Toll Road Authority was created in 1983 to construct, maintain, and operate toll roads in the rapidly growing Houston Metropolitan area. The Agency operates 127 miles including the Sam Houston Tollway, Tomball Tollway, Hardy Toll Road, Westpark Tollway, Katy Managed Lanes and the Ship Channel Bridge. HCTRA does not receive local, state or federal tax money, and is an Enterprise Fund of Harris County. The agency relies on revenue from users to fund operations, maintenance, debt service and future projects. Texas state law requires drivers to pay a toll at the time of the transaction or be responsible for the resulting violation, which may include fees and fines.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160912/406764

6 Reasons Why K-12 Hispanic Students Should Discover Landscape Architecture

September 13, 2016

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American Society of Landscape Architects logo

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Here are some top reasons why more Hispanic students should learn about landscape architecture and become landscape architects, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA):

Landscape architecture is a rewarding career that combines art, science and the environment.
Landscape architects design all types of outdoor public and private spaces that help define a community, including parks, landmarks and residential landscapes. Landscape architects have a significant impact on communities and quality of life. To learn more, visit ASLA’s career discovery page.
Landscape architects are leading community change, so they need to represent the diverse groups who make up the U.S. population.
“Landscape architects’ work is integral to the health and well-being of our nation’s communities,” says ASLA President Chad D. Danos, FASLA. “That’s why it’s so important that they understand the people for whom they’re designing.”

The U.S. population will be much more racially and ethnically diverse by 2060, according to projections by the U.S. Census Bureau. The Hispanic population will more than double, from 53.3 million in 2012 to 128.8 million in 2060. Consequently, by the end of the period, nearly one in three U.S. residents will be Hispanic, up from about one in six today.
Landscape architects design outdoor spaces where people enjoy recreation, cultural events and family gatherings.
According to the Hispanic Access Foundation, Hispanics are passionate about their public parks and open spaces. Austin, Texas-based landscape architect Luis G. Hidalgo, ASLA, agrees. Hidalgo volunteered to participate in an annual diversity summit hosted by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) to brainstorm ways to help K-12 minority students, including those of Hispanic origin, discover landscape architecture.

Says Hidalgo, “As a landscape architect, I have a great opportunity to bring my love of the outdoors and active living into my design projects. I’m proud to be part of a group of professionals that shape and transform the social, physical and community environment that affect our daily activities.”
Landscape architects from Hispanic backgrounds bring unique perspectives to the design table.
“Landscape architects have an amazing opportunity to help shape and transform the social, physical and community environments that affect our daily activities,” says Austin, Texas-based landscape designer Melissa Henao-Robledo, ASLA, who also participated in ASLA’s diversity summit. “Hispanic landscape architects offer a unique perspective because so few of us are sitting at the design table.”

Henao-Robledo also points out the tremendous diversity found within the Hispanic community therefore in order to prevent stereotypes a broad representation of Latinos within the industry would be ideal.
Landscape architects create iconic parks, streetscapes, and other public spaces that give cities an identity.
Famed Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx—who in 1970 redesigned the renowned Avenida Atlantica along Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach—was among the media stars of this year’s Summer Olympic Games. Millions of people around the world watching the closing ceremony saw dancers pay tribute to Marx, and such media outlets as the Los Angeles Times, New York Times and Wall Street Journal wrote about his legacy.
Landscape architects follow many paths before discovering the landscape architecture profession.
ASLA encourages teachers and families to explore its career discovery resources. Spanish-language materials include an introduction to the profession and Society on the ASLA website and fact sheet.

About ASLA
Founded in 1899, the American Society of Landscape Architects is the national professional association for landscape architects, representing more than 15,000 members in 49 professional chapters and 72 student chapters. Members of the Society use “ASLA” after their names to denote membership and their commitment to the highest ethical standards of the profession. Landscape architects lead the stewardship, planning and design of our built and natural environments; the Society’s mission is to advance landscape architecture through advocacy, communication, education and fellowship.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140325/DC90161LOGO-b

Nearly Half Of Hispanics Misunderstand Dietary Fats

September 13, 2016

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MISSION VIEJO, California, Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — According to the most recent U.S. Census, Hispanics are the least likely racial or ethnic group to seek medical care. This contributes to less access to information about common health risks and how diet can help protect against preventable diseases. A recent survey by the Hass Avocado Board (HAB) points to an important opportunity for more education specifically about the benefits of good dietary fats like those found in fresh avocados. Given Hispanics are the youngest ethnic group in America, nearly 15 years younger than whites, teaching vital nutrition lessons now will have a big impact on the growing community.

The survey of more than 2,000 adults revealed about 40% of Hispanics admit having low understanding about dietary fats, a confusion that consequently resulted in nearly half (47%) of Hispanic participants incorrectly lumping all fats as bad for you.

“Truth is that there are two kinds of fats: good and bad,” said Sylvia Meléndez Klinger, a registered dietitian nutritionist specializing in communicating with the Hispanic community for the past 20 years. “They are very different. Understanding the benefits and how to make better-for-you choices can have a huge impact on the health of the whole family.”

Missed Opportunity: More than 1/3 of Hispanics are Not Connecting the Dots between Healthy Eating and Healthier Living

34% of Hispanics surveyed did not believe eating good fats can help lower bad cholesterol when the truth is… according to the Dietary Guidelines 2015, replacing saturated (bad) fats or trans fats with unsaturated (good) fats, like that in fresh avocados, can reduce bad blood cholesterol levels. Avocados are cholesterol free, and unique in that they are comprised of over 75% unsaturated (good) fat, making them a great substitute for foods high in saturated fats.
36% of Hispanics didn’t believe eating good fats in place of bad fats can help lessen the risk of heart attack… however the facts show diets rich in foods containing fiber may reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Avocados are a good source of fiber and are recommended as a replacement for foods high in bad fats to help reduce the risk of heart disease.

“Dietary fiber from fruits like avocados, as part of an overall healthy diet, helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and can lower risk of heart disease,” says Nikki Ford, PhD, Director of Nutrition, Hass Avocado Board. “We are pleased to offer recipes and nutrition tips online in English and Spanish to help Hispanics learn more about how to enjoy avocados, a delicious source of good fats.”

New Hispanic-inspired fresh avocado recipes are added every year to HAB’s web sites in both Spanish and English. The quick and easy recipe for Vegan Avocado Ceviche offers zesty flavors and a meat-free twist on a traditional favorite.

For more information on the good fats in avocados including a new fact sheet and more recipes, visit www.LoveOneToday.com/Fat-Awareness or for Spanish-language, visit www.SaboreaUnoHoy.com/Grasas-Buenas.

About the Survey

The results are based on a survey conducted among a sample of 2,035 adults comprising 1,010 men and 1,025 women 18 years of age and older, living in the continental United States, between March 7-13, 2016. More than 300 were Hispanic. A sample size of 2,035 carries a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points. The survey was conducted by CARAVAN®, an omnibus service of ORC International.

About the Hass Avocado Board

The Hass Avocado Board (HAB) is an agriculture promotion group established in 2002 to promote the consumption of Hass Avocados in the United States. A 12-member board representing domestic producers and importers of Hass Avocados directs HAB’s promotion, research and information programs under supervision of the United States Department of Agriculture. Funding for HAB comes from Hass avocado producers and importers in the United States.

In 2010, HAB established a Nutrition Research program to increase awareness and improve understanding of the unique benefits of avocados to human health and nutrition. Fresh Hass avocados are a delicious, cholesterol-free, whole food source of naturally good fats. The Nutrition Research program is an integral part of Love One Today, HAB’s multiyear, science-based, food and wellness education program. Love One Today encourages Americans to include fresh Hass avocados in everyday healthy eating plans to increase fruit and vegetable intake.

For more information visit www.LoveOneToday.com or follow HAB on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube.

Contact: Vickie Fite for the Hass Avocado Board
[email protected]
310-613-0937

PDF – http://origin-qps.onstreammedia.com/origin/multivu_archive/ENR/2016_HAB_DietaryFatsFactSheet_Rd7_ConceptC(ID-07eecb4c8ba6).pdf

Chris Carrillo Named Vice President and General Manager of SBS Radio, Los Angeles

September 13, 2016

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Chris Carrillo has been named Vice President and General Manager, of SBS Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. (“SBS”/ NASDAQ:SBSA) today announced that Chris Carrillo has been named Vice President and General Manager, of SBS Los Angeles supervising all operations at KLAX-FM (97.9FM LA RAZA), KXOL-FM (Mega 96.3FM), LaMusica. The appointment is effective immediately.

Mr. Carrillo had previously held various managerial positions at SBS for ten years including General Sales Manager, Local Sales Manager and Senior Account Executive. Mr. Carrillo had served as Senior Account Executive at iHeart Media formerly Clear Channel Communications in Los Angeles.

“Chris’s radio experience and acumen are a matter of indisputable record and we’re confident of his leadership abilities in taking our stations to the highest level of operational excellence in the Los Angeles market. He knows radio, he knows the advertisers, he knows the Company and its people and he’s intimately familiar with our West Coast stations. No one is more qualified to take over the reins of SBS Los Angeles,” stated, Albert Rodriguez COO of SBS.

“Chris has consistently served as a top performer in every role that he has served at SBS during his 10 plus years. His most recent assignment as General Sales Manager has proven Chris to be a tremendous leader. I am confident that Chris, now as VP/ General Manager will take our Los Angeles operations to new heights, moving forward,” stated, Eric Garcia, SBS Radio Revenue Chief Officer and General Manager of SBS New York.

Chris’s vision for the radio industry has been honed and cultivated over decades of hands-on radio broadcasting experience plus a vast knowledge of effective sales and management philosophies.

“I am pleased and honored to be named to this position, which is a clear endorsement of the soundness of our strategy, the value of our assets, and the depth of the incredible team we are building here at SBS,” said Chris Carrillo. “I appreciate the energy and vision that Mr. Raul Alarcon has brought to the Company and look forward to pursuing the vision we share as we continue to push the boundaries of the definition of entertainment, giving our audience what they want now and in the future.”

Mr. Chris Carrillo will immediately assume his duties and responsibilities. He will be based at the Company’s Los Angeles headquarters.

About Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. owns and operates 17 radio stations located in the top U.S. Hispanic markets of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Puerto Rico, airing the Spanish Tropical, Regional Mexican, Spanish Adult Contemporary, Top 40 and Latin Rhythmic format genres. SBS also operates AIRE Radio Networks, a national radio platform which creates, distributes and markets leading Spanish-language radio programming to over 100 affiliated stations reaching 90% of the U.S. Hispanic audience. SBS also owns MegaTV, a television operation with over-the-air, cable and satellite distribution and affiliates throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. SBS also produces live concerts and events and owns multiple bilingual websites, including www.LaMusica.com, an online destination and mobile app providing content related to Latin music, entertainment, news and culture. For more information, visit us online at www.spanishbroadcasting.com.

Media & Press Contact: Vladimir Gomez, SBS [email protected] (786) 510-8841.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160912/406845

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110316/CL65860LOGO

Macy’s “Shop For A Cause” Raises More Than $3 Million For The March Of Dimes

September 13, 2016

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WHITE PLAINS, New York, Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Macy’s “Shop For A Cause” event has shown that superheroes come in all shapes, sizes and ages. This year’s three-day shopping event, held August 26-28, raised more than $3 million to benefit March of Dimes programs to give more babies a fighting chance.

“Once again, we are humbled by Macy’s associates and their customers’ super heroic fundraising efforts,” said Dr. Jennifer L. Howse, president of the March of Dimes. “Thanks to this incredible support, Macy’s is making a real difference in the lives of moms and babies across the country. This year’s amazing success will allow us to help improve the health of even more babies in local communities.”

The March of Dimes was the exclusive national beneficiary of the in-store and online savings pass for this year’s “Shop For A Cause”. When giving $5, customers were supporting life-saving breakthroughs for babies, while receiving a savings pass to enjoy special discounts at Macy’s.

Now in its 11^th year, “Shop For A Cause” has grown from a one-day to a three-day shopping event created to support local and national charities’ fundraising efforts. Since the start of Macy’s partnership with the March of Dimes, the retailer has raised more than $25 million for the cause, including $18 million from Shop For A Cause.

“Thanks to the generosity of our associates and customers, Macy’s Shop For A Cause program has supported the fundraising efforts of thousands of national and local charities again this year,” said Holly Thomas, Macy’s group vice president of cause marketing. “We are delighted to continue connecting with our communities and giving back to causes that are truly making a difference.”

For more information about the program, visit macys.com/shopforacause.

About Macy’s
Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at 734 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California are known internationally and leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy’s media materials, images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at macys.com/pressroom.

About March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. For more than 75 years, moms and babies have benefited from March of Dimes research, education, vaccines, and breakthroughs.

For the latest resources and health information, visit our websites marchofdimes.org and nacersano.org. To participate in our annual signature fundraising event, visit marchforbabies.org. If you have been affected by prematurity or birth defects, visit our shareyourstory.org community to find comfort and support. For detailed national, state and local perinatal statistics, visit persistats.org. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160912/406610
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150409/197662LOGO

(Español) Lionsgate se asocia con Univision Communications Inc. para lanzar el primer servicio de streaming de películas premium en español

September 12, 2016

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Sofia Vergara And Avon Celebrate Launch Of So Very Sofia Fragrance

September 12, 2016

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NEW YORK, Sept. 12, 2016 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Award-winning actress Sofia Vergara and Avon celebrated the launch of So Very Sofia by Sofia Vergara, a vivacious new fragrance, in Los Angeles this past weekend. The fragrance, which just launched exclusively through Avon, captures Sofia’s passion and confidence. The actress designed the scent to speak to today’s strong, powerful, beautiful woman. So Very Sofia is a floral chypre fragrance and this warm and fruity scent encourages women to never be afraid to be their true selves.

Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/7922351-avon-sofia-vergara-launch

“I am so thrilled to launch this fragrance exclusively through Avon. The Avon Representatives are so inspiring—they are independent, they are confident and they are empowered. They are exactly the type of women I had in mind when creating this scent,” shared Sofia.

So Very Sofia was inspired by a bold woman: one who is her own muse and who encourages others to live life with passion. Both feminine and powerful, she’s not afraid to flaunt her beauty, and is always true to herself.

“Sofia is a strong, beautiful woman—and we are so excited to launch her fragrance, So Very Sofia, exclusively through Avon. She truly embodies the Avon mission of empowering women and she inspires all of us with her drive and creativity,” says Meg Lerner, Vice President, North America Beauty and Fashion & Home for Avon.

About the Fragrance
Bold and feminine, the fragrance combines succulent fruits with tropical florals and fragrant herbs for an addictive scent.

The fragrance opens with juicy notes of ripe passion fruits for an aromatic statement
The scent evolves to reveal a heart of delicate Flor de Mayo Orchid, the national flower of Colombia, Sofia’s native country
Base notes of herbal patchouli envelop the wearer for a memorable finish

Price: $36

Where to buy: Avon fragrances are available exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit www.avon.com.

About New Avon LLC
New Avon LLC is the leading social selling beauty company in North America. The company generated over $1 billion in revenues during 2015, and has nearly 400,000 independent sales Representatives in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. New Avon’s product portfolio includes award-winning skincare, color cosmetics, fragrance and personal care products, featuring iconic brands such as Anew, Avon Color, Mark, and Skin So Soft, as well as fashion and accessories. Avon has a 130 year history of empowering women through economic opportunity, and the company also proudly supports the Avon Foundation for Women in its efforts to end breast cancer and domestic violence. Learn more about New Avon and its products at www.avon.com.

About Sofia Vergara
As an award nominated actress, comedian, producer, television host and model, Sofia Vergara has done it all. Best known for her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett on the show Modern Family, Vergara got her start co-hosting multiple shows on Spanish-language television network Univision. In the early 2000s, she made the jump to English-language acting, starring in films like Meet the Browns and earning an ALMA award for her role in Madea Goes to Jail. Since then, she’s gone on to become one of the most successful women in U.S. television, earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2015. Whether she’s starring in a Broadway show or lending her voice to a beloved animated character, Sofia always lives with passion and loves without boundaries.