Hispanic Public Relations Association, Los Angeles Awards Scholarships To Latino PR Students

November 3, 2015

Annual PRemio Scholarship Dinner includes Awards for Excellence in Journalism, PR Achievement, Social Media Influence & Corporation of the Year

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Hispanic Public Relations Association, Los Angeles Chapter (HPRA-LA) held its Annual PRemio Awards & Scholarship Gala in Downtown L.A. on Oct. 29 and awarded five deserving California college students in the fields of PR/Journalism with scholarships as well as recognized individuals and corporations for their excellence and commitment to the Latino community.

This year’s scholarship winners included:

Dru Anthony Chavez, junior at USC pursuing a degree in Public Relations;
Beatriz Martinez, senior at Cal State University, Fullerton pursuing a degree in Communications with an emphasis on Public Relations;
Naomi Ogaldez, recent graduate of Cal State University, Northridge with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Spanish-language Journalism;
Marissa Plascencia, a senior at Cal State University, Fullerton pursuing a degree in Public Relations;
Yareiry Giselle Pineda, a senior at the University of La Verne pursuing a degree in Public Relations with a minor in Marketing.

Also, Naomi Ogaldez received the 2015 Esther Renteria Community Service Award and Scholarship that honor Esther Renteria’s advocacy work and contributions to the field of communications.

Co-hosted by Sid Garcia, from ABC7 Eyewitness News and Claudia Botero, reporter for Univision KMEX 34, more than 150 top executives from the communications and marketing industry attended the Masquerade Soiree.

HPRA-LA recognized outstanding Latino communicators in journalism, public relations, social media, and corporate leadership contribute to the betterment of the Latino community and its positive portrayal in the media.

This year’s PRemio Award winners included:

Dennis Romero, LA Weekly, Journalism Award
Inez Gonzalez, Latino Communications Initiative at Cal State University, Fullerton, PR Achievement Award
Ana Flores, Latina Bloggers Connect, Social Media Influence Award
Toyota, Corporation of the Year

“First, congratulations to all the students and PRemio awardees for their continued dedication to the field of Hispanic public relations and to the community,” said Mashi Nyssen, President of HPRA-LA. “At a time when the national debate has put into question the value of the U.S. Latino community, we are celebrating tonight the tremendous contributions from individuals who are telling our stories and corporations who are opening doors for the next generation of story tellers.”

The PRemio Awards were made possible thanks to Silver Sponsors: AARP Los Angeles, Goya, RL Public Relations, Sportivo, Sports Public Relations and Marketing, Southern California Edison, and Univision Los Angeles; and Bronze Sponsors: Anthem Blue Cross, First 5 LA, Grupo Gallegos, Lopez Negrete, SoCal Gas, and California State University, Fullerton.

For additional information regarding the Hispanic Public Relations Association, Los Angeles chapter, please visit http://www.la.hpra-usa.org.

(Español) NCLR enfatiza la inscripción para planes de seguro médico disponibles por el ACA

November 3, 2015

Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

The American Diabetes Association® Launches Eat Well, America!(SM) Campaign during American Diabetes Month®

November 3, 2015

ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Every 19 seconds, someone in the United States is diagnosed with diabetes, and it is estimated that by 2050, as many as 1 in 3 American adults will develop type 2 diabetes if current trends continue. To promote healthy habits and wellness that will last throughout the year the American Diabetes Association^® (Association) launches the theme of this year’s American Diabetes Month^®, Eat Well, America!^sm. Throughout the month, the Association will empower Americans to make healthy eating a fun and simple part of daily life by equipping them with tips from cookbook authors and chefs for planning and preparing delicious and nutritious meals, whether at home or on the go.

A healthy lunch is a great way to bring wellness into the center of your day, especially for Americans looking to manage weight, combat low energy and better prevent, delay or manage diabetes. The Association will celebrate the inaugural National Healthy Lunch Day, Nov. 17, by providing tips geared toward helping Americans prepare or buy healthier lunch options. Eating well is an important step toward committing to healthy habits, and lunch is an enjoyable way to involve friends, family and coworkers in the journey.

“Our goal is for every American to learn how to prepare and choose healthy foods and never feel like they are sacrificing flavor or the enjoyment they get out of a good meal,” said Kevin L. Hagan, CEO, American Diabetes Association. “As the Association marks its 75^th anniversary, we are even more committed to empowering Americans to achieve health and wellness every single day. So let’s start making lasting healthy habits with a healthy lunch or a revamped holiday meal.”

Join the Eat Well, America! campaign throughout November to learn how you can put delicious and nutritious food on the table by following #EatWellAmerica and on social media. Be sure to inspire friends and family to participate in National Healthy Lunch Day by sharing photos of your healthy plates on social media using the hashtag #MyHealthyLunch.

For more information visit diabetesforecast.org/adm or call 1-800-DIABETES.

Eat Well, America! Calendar #EatWellAmerica

Week One: Breakfast
The Association will share delicious breakfast recipes that motivate you to get your busy day off to the right start.

Week Two: Snacks
Easy and satisfying snack recipes that make the walk past the vending machine a breeze.

Week Three: Lunch and #HealthyLunchDay
Lunch recipes that get you that keep your health on track through the day.

Week Four: Dinner
Seasonal dinner recipes that ensure you don’t miss out on the autumn and holiday flavors you love.

Week Five: Celebrations
Healthy special occasion options, including sweets, so you never feel deprived of your favorite treats and stay on track with good nutrition.

Visit the Association at diabetesforecast.org/adm or call 1-800-DIABETES for meal planning, shopping tips, grocery lists, chef’s preparation secrets and delicious recipes.

About American Diabetes Month
November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and control. For years, the American Diabetes Association has used this month as an opportunity to raise awareness of the disease and its serious complications.

About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight to Stop Diabetes^® and its deadly consequences and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. For the past 75 years, our mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383) or visit diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151103/283395
Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151103/283396
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141105/156803LOGO

2016 RAV4, Tacoma Lead Toyota’s Charge At Miami International Auto Show

November 3, 2015

MIAMI, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — New style, new safety features and new tech – and even a new hybrid. New is the name of the game for Toyota at the Miami International Auto Show, held Nov. 6-15 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151103/283247

The newly redesigned Toyota RAV4 gets an extra boost with a hybrid model. The RAV4 Hybrid will deliver more horsepower and better acceleration, with fewer fill-ups. Higher MPG and extra power comes without sacrifice on the RAV4 Hybrid – equipped with an Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System with Intelligence.

But the hybrid model isn’t the only addition to the RAV4 lineup. The new SE grade features a sport-tuned suspension, providing a more dynamic and responsive driving experience. The SE also adds premium convenience features and performance styling cues inside and out.

Together with the new Hybrid XLE and Limited, all 2016 RAV4 models will feature refreshed exterior styling, providing a sleeker, more dynamic appearance. Toyota listened to customer feedback and added more refinement and technology to the interior as well, including an available 7-inch touch-sensitive audio screen, 4.2-inch multi-information display in a revised gauge cluster, additional USB and power outlets and more soft-touch materials.

Additionally, the 2016 RAV4 offers Toyota Safety Sense, a new multi-feature advanced safety package anchored by automated pre-collision braking. The package bundles cutting edge safety technologies including a pre-collision system for vehicles and pedestrians, dynamic radar cruise control, automatic high beams, lane departure alert and forward collision warning.

The RAV4 also offers Toyota’s new Bird’s Eye View Camera. This Toyota-first technology utilizes four cameras to give the driver a panoramic view of their surroundings, offering assistance when parallel parking and when pulling in and out of parking spaces.

“RAV4 owners love it for its comfortable size and massive utility – a perfect combination for their active lifestyles,” said Craig Pollock, Group Vice President for Southeast Toyota Distributors. “By making our best RAV4 yet, we expect it to continue to win the hearts of our customers and set the tone for the hottest segment in the auto industry.”

Show attendees can also check out the all-new 2016 Toyota Tacoma. Rebuilt inside and out with an all-new powertrain and enhanced suspension tuning, America’s best-selling mid-size pickup for 10 years running retains its throne on the mountaintop for dirt stomping adventurers.

For more information on the Tacoma, RAV4 and the rest of Toyota’s 2016 lineup, visit www.toyota.com.

Spanish language version available.

About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM), the world’s top automaker and creator of the Prius and the Mirai fuel cell vehicle, is committed to building vehicles for the way people live through our Toyota, Lexus and Scion brands. Over the past 50 years, we’ve built more than 25 million cars and trucks in North America, where we operate 14 manufacturing plants (10 in the U.S.) and directly employ more than 42,000 people (more than 33,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North American dealerships (1,500 in the U.S.) sold more than 2.67 million cars and trucks (more than 2.35 million in the U.S.) in 2014 – and about 80 percent of all Toyota vehicles sold over the past 20 years are still on the road today.

Toyota partners with philanthropic organizations across the country, with a focus on education, safety and the environment. As part of this commitment, we share the company’s extensive know-how garnered from building great cars and trucks to help community organizations and other nonprofits expand their ability to do good. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.

Kia Motors America Announces Best-Ever October Sales

November 3, 2015

IRVINE, California, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced best-ever October sales of 50,044 vehicles, a 12-percent increase over the same period last year. Led by the Optima and Soul with 14,381 and 12,246 units sold, respectively, October marked Kia’s sixth straight monthly sales record.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151103/283357

“Kia is a challenger brand, and our ability to outpace the industry without the benefit of a truck in our lineup speaks volumes about consumers discovering the new Kia,” said Michael Sprague, chief operating officer and EVP, KMA. “With the all-new 2016 Optima arriving in showrooms and the completely redesigned 2017 Sportage making its North American debut at the LA Auto Show this month, this is an exciting time for Kia as we push toward a strong finish to the year.”

About Kia Motors America

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA proudly serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and LPGA and set an all-time annual sales record in 2014, surpassing the 500,000 unit mark for the third consecutive year. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles, including the rear-drive K900¹ flagship sedan, Cadenza premium sedan, Sorento CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Soul Electric Vehicle², Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Optima Hybrid, the Forte compact sedan, Forte5 and Forte Koup, Rio and Rio 5-door subcompacts and the Sedona midsize multi-purpose vehicle, through a network of more than 765 dealers across the United States. Kia’s U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, builds the Optima* and Sorento* and is responsible for the creation of more than 15,000 plant and supplier jobs.

Information about KMA and its full vehicle line-up is available at www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.

* The Sorento and Optima GDI (EX, SX & Limited and certain LX Trims only) are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

	MONTH OF OCTOBER		YEAR-TO-DATE
Model	2015	2014	2015	2014
Rio	1,571	2,534	21,847	31,921
Forte	5,198	5,190	68,498	58,983
Optima	14,381	11,840	132,684	134,486
Cadenza	1,018	608	5,898	8,237
K900	229	62	2,134	1,168
Sportage	4,476	3,743	43,484	36,386
Sorento	8,593	7,656	94,354	84,234
Sedona	2,332	2,376	32,196	8,032
Soul	12,246	10,685	124,929	126,264
Total	50,044	44,694	526,024	489,711

______________________________

¹ 2015 K900 V8 available in select trims and in select markets with limited availability.

² Soul EV in select markets with limited availability.

Design Updates, Enhanced Tech and New Higher-Level Trim Makes the Fun and Efficient 2016 CR-Z Hybrid Sport Coupe More Stylish and Feature Rich

November 3, 2015

Combining new, more aggressive styling, upgraded standard and available features and sporty handling, the 2016 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid goes on sale November 3.

TORRANCE, California, Nov. 2, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Combining new, more aggressive styling, upgraded standard and available features and sporty handling, the 2016 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid goes on sale November 3 with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP)¹ ranging from $20,295 for the CR-Z LX with 6-speed manual transmission (MT) to $25,090 for the new EX-L with standard navigation (CVT). The CR-Z’s agility is backed up by its punchy hybrid powerplant that produces up to an impressive 140 lb-ft of torque (MT)², while offering EPA fuel economy ratings of up to 36/39/37 mpg³ city/highway/combined (CVT).

Boasting an edgier, more chiseled look, the redesigned front end features sharp character lines that flow from the sheet work and terminate in an angular eight-point polygon grill. A sharp, blade-like front diffuser sweeps up from the center and dissects the front corners to form triangular fog light wells that create a wider look and feature prominent lower aero sills. The aggressive stance created by the front end continues along the CR-Z’s sides with flared full-length side garnishes that create a planted and sucked-to-the-tarmac look, complemented by new swept five-spoke design alloy wheels. The upward sweeping aero features of the front are mirrored at the rear, pushing the exit pod design elements to the sides for a wider looking stance.

Upgraded interior surface treatments include a new brushed metallic finish to the door handles, front paneling and center console. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and new-for-2016 heated and leather-trimmed seats on the top-of-the-line EX-L Navi trim include an attractive contrasting stitch pattern. Creating an even sportier cockpit feel, a new center console rises between the seats with a comfortable armrest and deep storage compartment. Allowing for this addition is a new standard electric parking brake (EPB) that eliminates the traditional parking brake lever and offers easier push-button operation. Another new standard convenience feature is the Smart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop system that simplifies approaching, entering and operating the CR-Z.

Newly standard on all CR-Z models is the 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen. The intuitive and easy-to-use Display Audio lets you swipe, tap and pinch–just like on a tablet computer or smartphone–to control the vehicle’s audio system, display settings and other advanced features, including Pandora® compatibility. CR-Z EX and EX-L Navi trims include Honda LaneWatch™, which displays a wide-angle view of the passenger side roadway on the Display Audio screen. On the new EX-L trim, Display Audio includes as standard the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition and Honda HD Digital Traffic.

New 2016 CR-Z Features:

Center console with armrest (standard)
Electric parking brake (standard)
Smart Entry and Push Button Start/Stop (standard)
Display Audio (standard)
Honda LaneWatch™ (EX and above)
Heated leather seats (EX-L)
Display Audio with Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ (EX-L)

The 2016 Honda CR-Z is available in LX, EX and EX-L trims. All trims come equipped with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an available CVT. To further enhance convenience and protection, to customize feature content and provide personalization opportunities for the 2016 CR-Z, Honda developed a range of Honda Genuine Accessories. New styling accessories include front bumper, rear tailgate and A- and B-pillar garnishes, LED fog lights with blue accent, and a fuel tank lid garnish. View, build and price a 2016 Honda CR-Z, including accessories at http://automobiles.honda.com/cr-z.

2016 Pilot Pricing and EPA Fuel Economy Ratings

Trim	Transmission	MSRP¹	EPA MPG Rating³(city/highway/combined)
LX	MT	$20,295	31/38/34
LX	CVT	$20,945	36/39/37
EX	MT	$22,140	31/38/34
EX	CVT	$22,790	36/39/37
EX-L	MT	$24,440	31/38/34
EX-L	CVT	$25,090	36/39/37

Powertrain
The hybrid powertrain uses a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, 16-valve, single-overhead cam (SOHC) engine with “intelligent” Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC®) that receives additional power from the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA®) system’s DC brushless electric motor. Powered by a 144-volt Lithium-Ion battery pack, the 15 kW electric motor assists in acceleration and also acts as a generator during braking or coasting to capture kinetic energy to recharge the battery pack. Combined peak output is 130 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 140 lb.-ft. of torque (127 lb.-ft. on CVT-equipped models), including electric-motor assist.

Selectable Econ, Normal and Sport operating modes let the driver select his or her desired balance of economy and performance. In addition, the standard Plus Sport System delivers increased acceleration when the driver presses the “S+” button on the steering wheel (when the battery is more than 50-percent charged and the CR-Z is traveling over 19 mph). The CR-Z’s idle-stop feature temporarily turns off the gasoline engine when the vehicle comes to a stop under certain conditions. In this situation, the hybrid powertrain’s ECU monitors the closed throttle, speed and brake pressure to determine the driver is bringing the car to a stop. When the brake pedal is released, the engine is restarted and power is available immediately.

Body
Refreshed with exterior design and trim upgrades for 2016, the CR-Z’s “one-motion” exterior wedge shape begins at its low-slung hood to form a broad forward stance, with its deeply inset beltline adding a dynamic element. Standard exterior features include power windows and power door locks, remote entry, and an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror. The CR-Z EX and EX-L model add LED daytime running lights (DRL), High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with Auto-On/Off, and fog lights.

Chassis
The front MacPherson strut and rear H-shaped torsion beam suspension systems, along with electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering (EPS), are tuned to provide a sporty driving experience. All CR-Z models have 16-inch aluminum wheels and 195/55R16 tires. The CR-Z’s low height, compact wheelbase and placement of the battery and other hybrid components beneath the rear cargo area contribute to a low center of gravity and responsive, sporty handling.

To further improve the 2016 CR-Z’s handling prowess, the chassis was retuned with several components receiving upgrades: the front stabilizer bar diameter was increased from 19 mm to 20 mm; the rear wheel track was increased by 10 mm; and front and rear brake discs were enlarged to 11.1 inches in diameter (up from 10.3 inch front and 10.2 inch rear).

Interior
The CR-Z interior has a high-tech appearance and intuitive controls including the new Display Audio touchscreen. The hybrid sport coupe’s ultra-modern instrument panel features gauges that illuminate with a three-dimensional color theme for a multi-layered appearance, with the tachometer backlighting color changing based on driving style. The sweeping upper dashboard shape creates a wraparound cockpit environment. Premium sport-oriented seats provide firm lateral support along with everyday driving comfort and are now offered on the new EX-L trim as heated leather seats with an attractive contrasting stitch pattern to provide a premium sporty interior feel. A console behind the front seats optimizes cargo space, with a hard-shell separator that can be closed to create additional hidden storage.

Standard electronic features include the Display Audio-operated, 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and speed-sensitive volume control and a USB⁶ auxiliary input jack for connection to a portable audio player. Other interior features include Pandora® compatibility, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, automatic climate control and cruise control.

The CR-Z EX and EX-L adds a 360-Watt AM/FM/CD Premium Audio System with seven speakers including subwoofer and HD Radio™⁷. A Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™⁸ is standard on the CR-Z EX-L. Included with the Navi system are HD traffic and voice recognition, Bluetooth® streaming audio and an SMS text messaging function.

Safety
Honda’s exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure helps protect occupants in a frontal collision. Additional safety technologies include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags, active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system (ABS); a tire pressure monitoring system; and design features to the front of the vehicle intended to mitigate potential injuries to a pedestrian in a collision.

All 2015 and newer Honda models, including the 2016 CR-Z, incorporate a multi-angle rearview camera⁹. Viewable on the 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen, the camera can show a top view, normal or wide view when the transmission is in Reverse. The camera view features dynamic guidelines that help the driver better judge distances and project the vehicle’s future path based on the driver’s steering inputs.

Warranty
The 2016 Honda CR-Z is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile new-car limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a 5-year/ unlimited-mile corrosion limited warranty. A 15-year/150,000-mile emissions warranty also applies when the vehicle is registered and normally operated in California and certain states that have adopted California Zero-Emission Vehicle regulations. Genuine Honda Accessories are covered by the vehicle’s 3-year, 36,000-mile limited warranty when obtained and installed at the time of original vehicle purchase. The HPD supercharger kit maintains the balance of customer’s 5 year/ 60,000 mile Honda limited powertrain warranty when installed by a Honda dealer.

For More Information
Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com/cr-z. To join the CR-Z community on Facebook, visit facebook.com/hondacrz. Additional media information including detailed pricing features and high-resolution photography of the 2016 Honda CR-Z is available at hondanews.com/channels/cr-v. For more information about HPD and the company’s racing product lines, please visit http://hpd.honda.com.

¹MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $835 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.

²140 lb-ft of torque @ 1000-2000 rpm (combined engine SAE net plus electric motor) for MT, 127 lb-ft @ 1000-3000 rpm (combined engine SAE net plus electric motor) for CVT.

³Based on 2016 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery-pack age/condition, and other factors.

⁴ 197 horsepower @ 6000 rpm estimated combined engine SAE net plus electric motor horsepower. Output will vary by individual vehicle. The HPD supercharger kit is available exclusively for CR-Z manual transmission models.

⁵130 horsepower @ 6000 rpm (combined engine SAE net plus electric motor horsepower).

⁶The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details.

⁷HD Radio is a proprietary trademark of iBiquity Digital Corporation.

⁸The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on the CR-Z EX-L in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details.

⁹ Always visually confirm that it is safe to drive before backing up; the rearview camera display does not provide complete information about all conditions and objects at the rear of your vehicle.

Third-party trademarks: The Bluetoothword mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license. Pandora, the Pandora logo and the Pandora trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pandora Media, Inc. Used with permission.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151102/282863

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140415/73520LOGO

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Texas home sales, prices rise in 2015-Q3, housing inventory holds steady

November 3, 2015

AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 2, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Texas home sales and prices continued to rise in the third quarter of 2015, while monthly housing inventory held steady, according to the 2015-Q3 Texas Quarterly Housing Report released today by the Texas Association of Realtors.

“Overall, statewide numbers continue to be strong,” said Scott Kesner, chairman of the Texas Association of Realtors. “Last year fell just short of being the best year ever in Texas real estate, but 2015 has shown consistent year-over-year gains in both home sales and prices. At this current pace, 2015 could very well surpass 2007 as a record year for Texas home sales.”

According to the report, Texas home sales rose 7.8 percent year-over-year to 91,704 home sales in 2015-Q3. Texas home prices saw similar gains, with median price rising 7.7 percent year-over-year to $199,900 in 2015-Q3.

Monthly housing inventory in Texas was 4.0 months in 2015-Q3 compared to 3.9 months in the same quarter last year. While housing inventory remains firmly within a seller’s market, it appears to be holding steady despite rising housing demand. The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University estimates that a monthly housing inventory between 6.0 and 6.5 months is a level at which supply and demand for homes is balanced.

Jim Gaines, Ph.D., chief economist with the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, explained, “The housing market continued to be strong in Texas during the third quarter, but high housing demand coupled with shortages in labor and lots continued to restrict new home construction, leaving inventory strained. Fortunately, more Texans are listing their homes on the market as prices have risen, possibly in expectation of rising interest rates in the future.”

Active listings statewide rose 7.6 percent year-over-year to 102,644 active listings in 2015-Q3. Texas homes also continued to spend less time on the market. In 2015-Q3, Texas homes spent an average of 51 days on the market, a decrease of six days compared to the same quarter of the prior year.

Chairman Kesner concluded, “Another strong buying season is in the record books, which is why the Texas Association of Realtors is out there advocating for infrastructure and affordability measures that support this enduring housing demand. We encourage Texans to vote ‘yes’ for both Proposition 1 and Proposition 7 on Nov. 3, both of which are critical to maintaining homeownership affordability in Texas and creating a sustainable infrastructure for our rapidly-growing state.”

About the Texas Quarterly Housing Report
Data for the Texas Quarterly Housing Report is provided by the Data Relevance Project, a partnership among local REALTOR® associations and their MLSs, the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, and the Texas Association of REALTORS®. The report provides quarterly real estate sales data from a statewide perspective and for 25 metropolitan statistical areas in Texas. It is scheduled for release by the Texas Association of REALTORS® on the following dates each year (or the next business day): Feb. 1, May 1, Aug. 1 and Nov. 1. To view the 2015-Q3 report in its entirety, visit TexasRealEstate.com.

About the Texas Association of REALTORS®
With more than 100,000 members, the Texas Association of REALTORS® is a professional membership organization that represents all aspects of real estate in Texas. We advocate on behalf of Texas REALTORS® and private-property owners to keep homeownership affordable, protect private-property rights, and promote public policies that benefit homeowners. Visit TexasRealEstate.com to learn more.

CONTACT: Danielle Urban
Pierpont Communications
512-448-4950
[email protected]

More than $500,000 raised during national Hispanic radio event benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®

November 3, 2015

MEMPHIS, Tennessee, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Hispanic communities across the country united in support of the annual Promesa y Esperanza^® (Promise and Hope) radio fundraising event on Oct. 8-9. Hosted by Davidson Media Group, along with other independent radio stations, the two-day event raised funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^®, which is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151102/283053

Over 1,200 callers became Ángeles de Esperanza (Angels of Hope) by signing up to donate $20 a month. Listener donations support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^®. Because of fundraising programs like this one, no family ever receives a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.

“Every year I am truly moved by the Hispanic community’s passion and support for the kids of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital,” said Richard Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “We are thankful for their generosity during this year’s Promesa y Esperanza which generated an incredible amount of awareness and funds to help St. Jude continue its pioneering research and exceptional patient care so that we will reach the day when no child dies from cancer.”

In all, 20 radio stations in 14 markets participated nationwide. Media markets included Boston, Providence, and Springfield, Massachusetts; Norfolk, Virginia; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Richmond, Virginia; Birmingham, Alabama; Durham, North Carolina; Louisville, Kentucky; Nashville, Tennessee; Goshen, Indiana; Odessa, Texas; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Kansas City, Kansas.

“The response from our listeners has been overwhelming in the best way possible,” said Chris McMurray, president of Davidson Media Group. “The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is something that our listeners really connect with and they appreciate that no family ever receives a bill from St. Jude – so they can focus on helping their child get better.”

During the event, radio listeners heard several heartwarming stories of Hispanic families and patients who are being treated at St. Jude; patients like Sarah. In January of 2015, she had a fever that doctors thought was related to a bladder infection. When the fever persisted and she had pain on her right side by her liver, her mom took her to the doctor again. After a few studies, doctors thought it was an abscess; however, after more tests they found out it was a tumor. Sarah started chemo locally but soon arrived to St. Jude at the end of May to begin treatment. Sarah likes to paint ceramic, make arts and crafts and create jewelry.

Events like Promesa y Esperanza help St. Jude share St. Jude moments, and the cutting edge research and treatment being offered. St. Jude freely shares the breakthroughs it makes, so every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists can use that knowledge to save thousands more children.

The St. Jude Promesa y Esperanza^® radio fundraising program began in 1997, with just three participating radio stations. Today, 18 years later, 100 radio stations in 55 markets across the country help raise more than $10 million dollars for the children of St. Jude throughout the year.

For more information about Promesa y Esperanza or to make a donation, visit promesayesperanza.org. or call (800) 998-8432.

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to 80 percent since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago. We won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude freely shares the discoveries it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org, liking St. Jude on Facebook (facebook.com/stjude) and following us on Twitter (@stjude).

Human Parasites Cause Acne, Pimples, Blackheads & Whiteheads? Yuck!

November 3, 2015

ATLANTA, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Most acne, pimples, blackheads and whiteheads are caused by parasites living on the human face and body. Getting rid of the parasites by using natural topical treatments can stop acne in 3-4 months.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151102/282841

Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis are mites that live in hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Mites are found on the face, chest, back, balding scalp and other areas. The prevalence of Demodex in humans is estimated as high as 95-100% in some populations. Anti-mite products are available at http://vexdex.com/products.

Most people are asymptomatic, but an over-abundance of Demodex in a reactive person results in adverse dermatological conditions. The mites have lifespans of weeks, reproduce, die and decompose inside hair follicles or sebaceous glands. The decomposition and associated bacteria in mite feces cause acne. Remove the mites and acne usually stops. Many clinical acne treatments address symptoms, not the cause, which is why results can be spotty (excuse the pun!) and can leave people dealing with unpleasant drug side-effects. The most effective solution is to eradicate the mites.

The good news is that treatment is readily available in most countries. Vex Dex is a company that creates anti-mite products and ships internationally. The treatments use naturally occurring ingredients. Treatment involves a regimen of (1) significantly reducing the mite population, then (2) maintaining a low population. Step (1) takes 3-4 months. Treatments kill mites, but not their eggs. Therefore, treatment must be sustained long enough to allow eggs to hatch and generations of mites to be eradicated as reproduction ceases.

Simple topical products that most people are accustomed to, but with anti-mite ingredients added, can effectively treat an infestation. A morning wash, daytime cream, evening wash-off mask and nighttime cream, supplemented with Tea Tree Oil, work well. There’s little change to the daily routine – only change to the selection of products used for that familiar routine.

The mites can live in towels, bedsheets and clothing. Vex Dex tells how to treat those and avoid re-infection.

Tell people you care about. Skin can be restored to its rightful, beautiful state at any age. Be beautiful. Let it show.

About Vex Dex: Founded by a 30-plus-years acne sufferer, who saw blackheads disappear within 1 month and breakouts cease within 4 months, the company is passionate about making acne relief available to all. Email: [email protected] Website: www.vexdex.com

The Home Depot to Host Third Quarter Earnings Conference Call on November 17

November 3, 2015

ATLANTA, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Home Depot®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, announced today that it will hold its Third Quarter Earnings Conference Call on Tuesday, November 17, at 9 a.m. ET.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20030502/HOMEDEPOTLOGO

A webcast will be available by logging onto http://earnings.homedepot.com and selecting the Third Quarter Earnings Conference Call icon. The webcast will be archived and available beginning at approximately noon on November 17.

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,272 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2014, The Home Depot had sales of $83.2 billion and earnings of $6.3 billion. The Company employs more than 300,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

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