Marie Callender’s Continues Partnership With USO To Bring Comforts From Home To U.S. Troops Around The Globe

October 19, 2015

OMAHA, Neb., Oct. 19, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Marie Callender’s®, a brand of ConAgra Foods [NYSE: CAG], announced the return of the Comforts From Home Project, a partnership with the United Service Organizations (USO) that’s committed to bringing the heartwarming feelings, flavors, and favorites of home to those who miss it most. In its second year, the Comforts From Home Project invites consumers to support USO Operation Celebration™, a program dedicated to celebrating holidays and other special occasions for service members and military families who are missing the comforts of home during these special times. The program brings food, decorations and games to USO locations around the world so that our nation’s military community can celebrate special occasions no matter where they are serving.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151016/277849
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151016/277850LOGO

From September 1, 2015 through January 29, 2016, consumers can help give to USO Operation Celebration by entering the on-pack code from one of the more than approximately 55 million specially marked packages of Marie Callender’s frozen meals or desserts at www.ComfortsFromHome.com. Marie Callender’s will donate $.50 to USO Operation Celebration for each code entered[1].

“Last year, with consumers’ overwhelming support, Marie Callender’s brought care packages to a very deserving group of servicemen and women stationed overseas through a $250,000 donation to the USO2GO program,” said Christiane Brocky, vice president and general manager, ConAgra Foods. “This year, we’re proud to support USO Operation Celebration to help bring a taste of home and its comforts to our troops when their service takes them away from family and friends during the holidays and other special occasions.”

In addition to the on-pack promotion, the 2015 Comforts From Home Project will partner again with Scripps Networks to highlight military families and their service through three popular television shows: Guy’s Grocery Games (Food Network), Kitchen Crashers (HGTV and DIY Network) and Travel Channel’s American Heroes (Travel Channel). Each television program offers a unique way to give back to those who defend our homes every day and will feature a social media integration to engage consumers online. Scripps Networks will also re-air the one-hour program, A Hero’s Welcome, which features a heartwarming homecoming event for one retiring soldier, on Veterans Day on Food Network.

“By supporting the USO’s Operation Celebration program, Marie Callender’s is helping us bridge the gap between home and our troops,” said Lisa Anastasi, USO Chief Development Officer. “From the Fourth of July to Thanksgiving, the USO is dedicated to helping troops enjoy every holiday with the comforts of home that can often be taken for granted, such as seasonal meals, entertainment and a chance to relax away from the stresses of military duty.”

In addition to the on-pack promotion and television integrations, the Comforts From Home Project will be supported with a robust marketing campaign that includes in-store signage, a free standing newspaper insert, a magazine outsert in the November issues of Allrecipes, Better Homes & Gardens, Every Day with Rachael Ray, Martha Stewart Living and Taste of Home, as well as digital and social media support.

Visit www.ComfortsFromHome.com to learn more about the on-pack promotion, the USO Operation Celebration program and the Scripps Networks TV specials airing this fall. Consumers can also see how many codes have been entered with the real-time code tracker.

ABOUT CONAGRA FOODS
ConAgra Foods, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) is one of North America’s largest packaged food companies with branded and private branded food found in 99 percent of America’s households, as well as a strong commercial foods business serving restaurants and foodservice operations globally. Consumers can find recognized brands such as Banquet®, Chef Boyardee®, Egg Beaters®, Healthy Choice®, Hebrew National®, Hunt’s®, Marie Callender’s®, Orville Redenbacher’s®, PAM®, Peter Pan®, Reddi-wip®, Slim Jim®, Snack Pack® and many other ConAgra Foods brands, along with food sold by ConAgra Foods under private brand labels, in grocery, convenience, mass merchandise, club and drug stores. Additionally, ConAgra Foods supplies frozen potato and sweet potato items as well as other vegetable, spice, and bakery goods to commercial and foodservice customers. ConAgra Foods operates ReadySetEat.com, an interactive recipe website that provides consumers with easy dinner recipes and more. For more information, please visit us at www.conagrafoods.com.

About the USO
The USO lifts the spirits of America’s troops and their families millions of times each year at hundreds of places worldwide. We provide a touch of home through centers at airports and military bases in the U.S. and abroad, top quality entertainment and innovative programs and services. We also provide critical support to those who need us most, including forward-deployed troops, military families, wounded warriors, troops in transition and families of the fallen. The USO is a private, non-profit organization, not a government agency. Our programs and services are made possible by the American people, support of our corporate partners and the dedication of our volunteers and staff.

In addition to individual donors and corporate sponsors, the USO is supported by President’s Circle Partners: AT&T, BNSF Railway, Clark Construction Group, LLC, The Coca-Cola Company, JCPenney, Johnson & Johnson, Kroger, Northrop Grumman Corporation and Four-Star Partners: BIC, ConAgra Foods, FedEx, GEICO, Harris Teeter, Jeep, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft Corporation, NFL, Procter & Gamble, TKS Telepost Kabel-Service Kaiserslautern GmbH & Co. KG and Wawa Inc. We are also supported through the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-11381). To join us in this important mission, and to learn more about the USO, please visit uso.org.

[1] For every entry by 1/29/16 of an 8-digit code found on participating products, Marie Callender’s will donate $.50 to the USO Operation Celebration™. Guaranteed minimum donation: $100,000. Maximum donation: $300,000. Limit 5 code entries per person/computer each day. Valid in U.S. only. ConAgra Foods, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

For more information, please contact:
Kayla Jaroch, Edelman
312-240-3156
[email protected]

Amy Morgan, ConAgra Foods
630-857-1120
[email protected]

www.ComfortsFromHome.com
www.MarieCallendersMeals.com
www.ConagraFoods.com

Teens were asked what would stop them from texting while driving. Their top answer: they worry about crashing.

October 19, 2015

BLOOMINGTON, Ill., Oct. 19, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In observance of National Teen Driver Safety Week, State Farm released the results of a recent survey of young drivers ages 16-19. The focus of the survey was to learn more about their attitudes and behaviors when it comes to distracted driving.

The survey revealed that nearly all teens, over 90 percent, say they understand texting while driving is distracting, yet 44 percent say they do it. When asked to choose the top three things that would deter them from reading or responding to text messages, concern about crashing was the number one answer (51 percent), followed closely by getting caught by police (50 percent). Other common responses included:

Arriving safely at my destination (33 percent)
Knowing someone who has caused a crash while texting (23 percent)
Stories about crashes caused by texting (17 percent)
Getting caught by parents (13 percent)
Friends encourage safe driving (10 percent )
Parent/teen safe driving contracts (6 percent)

New drivers, because they are especially vulnerable to crashes, should be focusing all their attention on their drive. Yet phones are not the only distraction teen drivers told us they must contend with when they’re behind the wheel. Besides texting, teens reported searching for music, interacting with a navigation system/GPS, talking with passengers while behind the wheel and other activities which could potentially divert a young driver’s attention away from the road.

Talking with a passenger (94 percent)
Listening to navigation system/GPS (79 percent)
Searching for music (73 percent)
Accessing the internet on their phone (36 percent)
Reading social media (29 percent)
Taking pictures with their phones (27 percent)

“As nearly all teenage drivers now own smartphones, we must continue our work to understand and address the wide array of distractions that young people face,” said Chris Mullen, Director of Technology Research at State Farm. “This survey shows us some of the perceptions that influence distracted driving behavior for teens, reinforcing the need for consideration of the best educational, technological, and legislative solutions, and continued parental support to help curb these types of behaviors among teens.”

The State Farm survey revealed that distracting behaviors become more common among older teens, with those ages 18-19 much more likely than those ages 16-17 to report participating in the activities listed in this study.

Driving situations can play an important role in teen drivers’ decisions to participate in cellphone-related distracted driving behaviors that involve looking at the cellphone and interacting with the screen and/or buttons.

Sixty-seven percent of teen drivers who use their cellphone while driving reported that being stopped at a red light makes them more likely to use their cellphone compared to when the vehicle is in motion.
Three-quarters of teens said they were less likely to use their cellphone when adult passengers were in their vehicle compared to 58 percent who were less likely to use their phone when other teens were present.
At least two-thirds of teen drivers reported being “a lot less likely” to use their cellphone when driving in poor weather conditions such as rain, fog, snow, or ice.

A copy of the full report, and infographic and other resources can be found at http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7292859-state-farm-distracted-driving-teens/.

About the Survey
In August 2015, the State Farm Strategic Resources Department used an outside panel vendor to conduct an online survey of U.S. consumers ages 16-19. Survey responses were received from approximately 1,000 teens who identified themselves as having a valid driver’s license. Nearly all of the teens (96 percent) responding to this survey reported owning a cellphone, and almost all of those teens (94 percent) said they owned a smartphone and drove a median five hours per week.

About State Farm^®The mission of State Farm is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto, home and individual life insurance in the United States. Its 18,000 agents and more than 65,000 employees serve more than 82 million policies and accounts – nearly 80 million auto, home, life, health and commercial policies, and nearly 2 million bank accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 41 on the 2015 Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com.

5 Seconds of Summer Announce 2016 North American Leg of “Sounds Live Feels Live” Tour

October 18, 2015

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — On the heels of wrapping up their hugely successful “Rock Out With Your Socks Out Tour,” 5 Seconds of Summer announce plans to return to North America next summer for another extensive run. The SOUNDS LIVE FEELS LIVE tour, produced by Live Nation, will kick off on July 1 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT and include shows at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, PA (July 2), New York City’s Madison Square Garden (July 15) and The Forum in Los Angeles (Sept. 7). See below for itinerary.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151016/277843

Fans who order 5 Seconds of Summer’s new adrenaline-fueled studio album, Sounds Good Feels Good, via the band’s store HERE will have early access to tickets. The album will be released next Friday, Oct. 23, via Hi or Hey Records/Capitol Records. It is the follow-up to the band’s chart-topping, self-titled debut, which has sold more than three million copies worldwide.

Citi® cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 10 a.m. local time through Citi’s Private Pass® Program. For complete pre-sale details, visit www.citiprivatepass.com. Tickets for the general public go on sale on Oct. 23 at www.livenation.com.

The official video for “Hey Everybody,” the band’s new single, premiered today on VEVO and can be viewed HERE. Directed by Isaac Rentz (Cage The Elephant, Blink 182), who also helmed 5 Seconds of Summer’s “She’s Kinda Hot,” “Good Girls,” “Amnesia” and “Don’t Stop” videos, the clip finds Mikey in a hot dog costume, Ash dressed as a dinosaur, Calum walking dogs and Luke stuck in a terrible internship.

“Hey Everybody” – along with “She’s Kinda Hot,” “Money,” “Jet Black Heart” and “Fly Away” – are available instantly to fans who pre-order the digital version of Sounds Good Feels Good, available HERE. The album hit No. 1 on iTunes in 50 countries just hours after the pre-order launched.

In their second cover story on the band, Billboard noted, “5SOS is an anomaly in 2015: a Generation Z guitar band that sells records.…On Sounds Good Feels Good, the guitars thunder more…” Alternative Press, which awarded the album four stars, observed, “Sounds Good Feels Good delivers….The album finds its crux in the first single, ‘She’s Kinda Hot,’ with the triumphant line in the chorus: ‘We are the kings and queens of the new broken scene.'” Kerrang hailed it as a “killer new album” and gave it four K’s, noting, “Opener ‘Money’ explodes into one of the biggest anthems of the year.”

“She’s Kinda Hot,” which won Song of the Summer honors at the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards, topped the iTunes charts in 44 countries and was a Top 15 hit at Top 40 radio. 5 Seconds of Summer spent three months living together in a studio in Los Angeles, writing and recording Sounds Good Feels Good, which was executive produced by rock veteran John Feldmann (All Time Low, Good Charlotte, Boys Like Girls).

The band is among the all-star lineup of artists featured on the 2015 iHeartRadio Jingle Ball tour. The New York City show, which will take place at Madison Square Garden, will be streamed live on Yahoo! at www.yahoo.com/iheartradio on Friday, Dec. 11, at 8 p.m. ET and a 90-minute special will air on The CW on Thursday, Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

5 Seconds of Summer’s self-titled debut album entered the Billboard 200 at No. 1, selling 260,000 units in the U.S. in its first week of release, marking the biggest debut for a new act in 2014 and the biggest debut ever by an Australian artist. It topped the iTunes charts in a total of 76 countries. The band has won numerous awards, including an American Music Award, a People’s Choice Award, five MTV European Music Awards, an MTV Video Music Award and an iHeartRadio Music Award. In 2015, 5 Seconds of Summer played to more than one million fans across three continents, including three massive sold-out nights at the SSE Wembley Arena in London.

5 SECONDS OF SUMMER – SOUNDS LIVE FEELS LIVE TOUR 2016

Fri., July 1, 2016	Uncasville, CT	Mohegan Sun Arena
Sat., July 2, 2016	Hershey, PA	Hersheypark Stadium
Wed., July 6, 2016	Darien Center, NY	Darien Lake Performing Arts Center
Fri., July 8, 2016	Washington, DC	Jiffy Lube Live
Sat., July 9, 2016	Boston, MA	Xfinity Center
Sun., July 10, 2016	Holmdel, NJ	PNC Bank Arts Center
Tues., July 12, 2016	Toronto, ON	Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
Wed., July 13, 2016	Montreal, QC	Bell Centre
Fri., July 15, 2016	New York, NY	Madison Square Garden
Sat., July 16, 2016	Philadelphia, PA	Susquehanna Bank Center
Mon., July 18, 2016	Charlotte, NC	PNC Music Pavilion Charlotte
Wed., July 20, 2016	Jacksonville, FL	Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena
Fri., July 22, 2016	Birmingham, AL	Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
Sat., July 23, 2016	Nashville, TN	Bridgestone Arena
Sun., July 24, 2016	Atlanta, GA	Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood
Tues., July 26, 2016	Cincinnati, OH	Riverbend Music Center
Wed., July 27, 2016	Detroit, MI	The Palace of Auburn Hills
Fri., July 29, 2016	Moline, IL	iWireless Center
Sat., July 30, 2016	Chicago, IL	Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Sun., July 31, 2016	Saint Paul, MN	Xcel Energy Theatre
Thurs., Aug. 18, 2016	Tulsa, OK	BOK Center
Fri., Aug. 19, 2016	St. Louis, MO	Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
Sat., Aug. 20, 2016	Kansas City, MO	Sprint Center
Mon., Aug. 22, 2016	Omaha, NE	CenturyLink Center
Wed., Aug. 24, 2016	Denver, CO	Pepsi Center
Fri., Aug. 26, 2016	Salt Lake City, UT	USANA Amphitheatre
Sat., Aug. 27, 2016	Boise, ID	Taco Bell Arena
Sun., Aug. 28, 2016	Seattle, WA	White River Amphitheatre
Tues., Aug. 30, 2016	Spokane, WA	Spokane Arena
Wed., Aug. 31, 2016	Portland, OR	Sunlight Supply Amphitheatre
Fri., Sept. 2, 2016	Mountain View, CA	Shoreline Amphitheatre
Sat., Sept. 3, 2016	Sacramento, CA	Toyota Amphitheatre
Sun., Sept. 4, 2016	Irvine, CA	Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre
Wed., Sept. 7, 2016	Los Angeles, CA	The Forum
Fri., Sept. 9, 2016	San Diego, CA	Sleep Train Amphitheatre
Sat., Sept. 10, 2016	Phoenix, AZ	Ak-Chin Pavilion
Sun., Sept. 11, 2016	Albuquerque, NM	Isleta Amphitheater
Wed., Sept. 14, 2016	San Antonio, TX	AT&T Center
Fri., Sept. 16, 2016	New Orleans, LA	Smoothie King Center
Sat., Sept. 17, 2016	Dallas, TX	Gexa Energy Pavilion
Sun., Sept. 18, 2016	Houston, TX	The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presented by Huntsman

5 SECONDS OF SUMMER are on the line-up for the following dates of the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2015 Tour:

Tues., Dec. 1, 2015	Dallas, TX
Fri., Dec. 4, 2015	Los Angeles, CA
Wed., Dec. 9, 2015	Philadelphia, PA
Thurs., Dec. 10, 2015	Boston, MA
Fri., Dec. 11, 2015	New York, NY
Mon., Dec. 14, 2015	Washington, DC
Wed., Dec. 16, 2015	Chicago, IL
Fri., Dec. 18, 2015	Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Sat., Dec. 19, 2015	Tampa, FL

For the latest on 5 Seconds of Summer, visit:
www.5sos.com
www.facebook.com/5secondsofsummer
www.twitter.com/5SOS

About Live Nation Entertainment

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, Live Nation Media & Sponsorship and Artist Nation Management. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

International Day of the Girl

October 16, 2015

TORONTO, Oct. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — With the October 11 observance of the International Day of the Girl Child, Canadian researcher Caril Phang emphasizes education as vital to the empowerment of girls, and women. “Organizations such as UNESCO insist that cultural co-operation is essential to pedagogy, and it is this perspective which informs my work.” An advisor on parity, and cultural inclusion in industry, Phang insists that greater representation of women in the production of popular works is vital to enhancing the self-image of our girls. “One of my favourite directors, Tania Hoser, insists that the arts can empower women, being a creative format with informative function. The day our girls can see themselves truly, fully represented in popular culture − in all their complexities as human beings − is the day my work will be done.”

Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151016/277809

Caril Phang @WordsEdge has been published by the United Nations, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Phang manages multilateral projects, specializing in globalism, equity, and discourses, and is author, most lately, of Birth of a Beat: How Kaná:ta’ Creates World Music (spring 2016).

For further information: Caril Phang, 647-829-7086

Alex Perdikis Announces Koons of Silver Spring Becomes Presenting Sponsor of the 32nd Annual 2015 Generation Adidas Bethesda Premier Cup

October 16, 2015

SILVER SPRING, Maryland, Oct. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Alex Perdikis, Managing Partner at Koons of Silver Spring, announced today that Koons of Silver Spring will be the presenting sponsor of the 2015 Generation Adidas Bethesda Premier Cup.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151016/277605LOGO

Brad Roos, Executive Director for the Bethesda Soccer Club, said, “The Bethesda Soccer Club, which hosts this nationally leading tournament, is proud to have Koons of Silver Spring as our presenting sponsor. Koons has been leading the way in the automotive business in the Washington DC region since 1964.”

Alex Perdikis commented by saying, “We, at Koons of Silver Spring, are excited to partner with the Bethesda Soccer Club again as the presenting sponsor of their Generation Adidas Bethesda Premier Cup. We are eager to continue our partnership with the Bethesda Soccer Club in an effort to support the growth of youth sports in the Washington DC area while giving back to our local community.” Perdikis added, “We are specifically proud of our partnership with the Bethesda Soccer Club as it is one of the elite soccer clubs in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC area.”

About Koons of Silver Spring: Koons of Silver Spring, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, sells and services new Fords, Lincolns, Mazdas, and has an extensive pre-owned operation. Koons of Silver Spring has over 130 employees and was selected as one of the “Best Places to Work” by the Washington Business Journal in 2015, the 5 years in a row. Koons of Silver Spring was founded in 2010.

About Bethesda Soccer Club: BETHESDA SOCCER CLUB is a Premier Travel and Youth Development Program based in Montgomery County, Maryland, outside Washington DC. Starting in 1979, as the Bethesda Boys Club with three teams, Bethesda today maintains a rich soccer landscape with over 75 boys’ and girls’ teams from ages U8 through U19 competing in various leagues in Maryland, Virginia and Region I.

Follow Alex Perdikis: @alex_perdikis

Follow Koons of Silver Spring: @KoonsSSFLM

www.koonsofsilverspring.com

El Jimador’s ‘Your Shot At $1 Million’ Program Ends With Four Blocked Penalty Shots By Tim Howard Plus One Lucky $20,000 Winner

October 16, 2015

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Oct. 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — One skilled fan’s life became $20,000 richer when el Jimador Tequila “Your Shot at $1 Million” program awarded Bryce Pigott, from Gilbert, Arizona, the prize after he successfully kicked a penalty shot against U.S. National and Everton goalkeeper, Tim Howard. Five sweepstakes winners were given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take a penalty shot against Howard, and then a shot for the chance to win $1 million dollars. Tim Howard’s charity partner the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome, prevailed as the ultimate winner collecting $105,000 in funds raised for the organization.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151014/277127LOGO
Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151014/277130
Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151014/277131
Video – http://origin-qps.onstreammedia.com/origin/multivu_archive/PRNA/ENR/277135-Check-Presentation-Video.mp4
Video – http://origin-qps.onstreammedia.com/origin/multivu_archive/PRNA/ENR/277153-Tims-Comments-Video.mp4
Video – http://origin-qps.onstreammedia.com/origin/multivu_archive/PRNA/ENR/277154-Winners-Kick-Video.mp4

Randomly selected from more than 100,000 entries for the “Your Shot at $1 Million Dollars” program, the other four sweepstakes winners included Andy Acton of Rochester, NY, Dana Elaine of Philadelphia, PA, Matt Gold of Denver, CO and Alex Varela of Dallas, TX. They were all flown to New York along with a guest and had an opportunity to meet Tim Howard, attend the U.S. vs. Costa Rica game on Oct. 13, and enjoy some of New York’s hot spots, courtesy of el Jimador Tequila.

“Since becoming an active soccer sponsor, we’ve been committed to offering adult consumers once-in-a-lifetime experiences that go beyond soccer matches and bring fans closer to their favorite players,” said Ed Carias, Senior Brand Manager, el Jimador. “‘Your Shot’ has been one of the most successful programs to date and we could not have had a better partner than Tim Howard who is as passionate about his craft, as we are about making quality tequila.”

The New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome, where Howard serves on the board, received funds raised throughout the program by adult consumers who used #KICKTS hashtag in their social media posts as well as $20,000 awarded for each shot blocked by Howard totaling $105,000.

“What a beautiful day for a shoot out here in New York City. Congrats to Bryce for an excellent shot,” exclaims Tim Howard. “And, we have another winner today – The New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome. And, thanks to el Jimador for a wonderful partnership.”

To speak with a brand representative regarding the contest or el Jimador, please contact Havas FORMULATIN at [email protected].

El Jimador Tequila encourages you to drink responsibly.

About el Jimador Tequila

From Casa Herradura, established in 1870, el Jimador is a premium, authentic 100 percent agave tequila that captures the spirit of real tequila. The name el Jimador honors the men who harvest the locally grown agave with great pride and care. Since its introduction in 1994, el Jimador has become the No. 1 selling 100 percent agave tequila in Mexico*. el Jimador is the official sponsor of the annual U.S. Tour of the Mexican National Team and MLS teams including the Houston Dynamo, FC Dallas, Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers. To learn more about el Jimador, visit www.eljimador.com.

Alc. 40% by Vol. (80 proof) Tequila, Imported by Brown-Forman, Louisville, KY
* Nielsen/ISCAM January 2015

Sofa Mart Reveals New Interior in Corpus Christi, TX

October 16, 2015

DENVER, Oct. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — There’s more to love @ Furniture Row. Sofa Mart has remodeled their showroom and updated their inventory to offer a bigger, better and more beautiful selection of stylish furniture and accessories. Located at 7602 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi TX 78412, the newly remodeled Sofa Mart store’s enhanced selection is the largest in town at guaranteed lowest prices.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150701/227493LOGO

With a new interior, Sofa Mart created visual vignettes to display the latest in stylish and comfortable furniture, thus giving shoppers a visual interpretation of how the furniture will feel in their home. The vast selection presented along with a wide variety of financing options makes it easier than ever to customize your living space.

Sofa Mart is your source for great designs and comfortable prices. Sofa Mart designers hand pick the nation’s largest selection of upholstered furniture, a wide variety of accent tables, lamps, area rugs, chairs, motion furniture and home décor – across all styles and all price points. And, as part of their commitment to customer choice and satisfaction, Sofa Mart is pleased to offer the Make it Yours program: thousands of combinations available and special orders uniquely customized according to preference.

In celebration of the new interior, shoppers can enter for a chance to win a 55″ 4K HDTV from October 30^th through November 19^th, 2015. Sofa Mart @ Furniture Row. Beautiful Designs. Comfortable Prices.

About Furniture Row Companies

The specialty stores of Furniture Row include Denver Mattress, Sofa Mart, Oak Express, and Bedroom Expressions. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Furniture Row operates more than 330 stores in 30 states, making it one of America’s largest, family-owned and operated specialty home furnishings and bedding retailers. Visit http://www.FurnitureRow.com

Furniture Row also owns and sponsors the #78 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Chevrolet driven by Martin Truex Jr. full-time through Furniture Row Racing. Visit http://www.FurnitureRowRacing.com

Contact: John Knippenberg / Furniture Row Marketing / 303-293-2437

MassMutual Survey Finds Gaps in Latinos’ Understanding of and Ability to Select Their Employee Benefits

October 16, 2015

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., Oct. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — New research from Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) finds that Latino workers claim to be knowledgeable about their employer-provided benefits. Yet despite this claim, they are more likely to say that they find it difficult to select their benefits.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150715/237445LOGO

Sixty one percent of Latino employees said they know a lot about their employer-sponsored benefits, according to the 2015 MassMutual Employee Benefits Security Study. A sizeable majority (80 percent) indicated they know how much they spend monthly on their benefits, but only about half responded that they know how much life insurance coverage their family needs, if they are on track to retire comfortably and how much they should be spending on their benefits.

“There is a disconnect for Latino workers when it comes to truly understanding their employee benefits,” said Dr. Chris Mendoza, Latino Markets Director, MassMutual. “This presents challenges when it comes to making the most of their employee benefits and attaining financial security for themselves and their families. Education about financial topics can help Hispanic families make better informed decisions.”

Learning more about their finances is perceived by Latinos to be too complicated, confusing and time-intensive, MassMutual’s research found.

To help provide more educational resources, MassMutual launched MapMyBenefits^SM (available in English only), a free, online tool that enables employees to prioritize their benefits choices and make the most of each benefit dollar based on life stages, financial goals and personal finances. The holistic approach to financial planning at the workplace combines retirement readiness, healthcare coverage and preparation for life’s unforeseen events.

Nearly four out of five (76 percent) Latino employees said they do not currently use an online financial tool to manage their retirement, healthcare and other forms of insurance. However, 81 percent indicated they would likely use such a tool if it were available cost-free, especially if it were provided by a “trusted and respected financial services company.”

“This study finds that many Latino employees cite difficulty, time, and a lack of information about where to go and whom to trust as the reasons for not knowing more,” Mendoza said. “MassMutual is offering new tools and opportunities to help all Americans better understand their personal finances and benefits.”

The study focused on a sampling of employees and their employer-provided benefits. MassMutual commissioned the study by KRC Research as part of an initiative to understand how best to help educate workers about their employer-provided benefits and enable them to make better choices in selecting healthcare coverage, insurance protection, retirement savings and other benefits.

Additional in-language resources are available at massmutual.com/Latino.

Methodology
This research was conducted by KRC Research from July 17-24, 2015 via an online survey among 1,517 Americans, including an oversample of 501 Latinos, who are full-time employees at companies that provide benefits programs.

About MassMutual
Founded in 1851, MassMutual is a leading mutual life insurance company that is run for the benefit of its members and participating policyowners. The company has a long history of financial strength and strong performance, and although dividends are not guaranteed, MassMutual has paid dividends to eligible participating policyowners consistently since the 1860s. With whole life insurance as its foundation, MassMutual provides products to help meet the financial needs of clients, such as life insurance, disability income insurance, long term care insurance, retirement/401(k) plan services, and annuities. In addition, the company’s strong and growing network of financial professionals helps clients make good financial decisions for the long-term.

Insurance products issued by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111-0001 and its subsidiaries C.M. Life Insurance Company and MML Bay State Life Insurance Company, Enfield, CT 06082.

MassMutual Financial Group is a marketing name for Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and its affiliated companies and sales representatives. MassMutual is headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts and its major affiliates include: Babson Capital Management LLC; Baring Asset Management Limited; Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers LLC; The First Mercantile Trust Company; MassMutual International LLC; MML Investors Services, LLC, Member FINRA and SIPC; OppenheimerFunds, Inc.; and The MassMutual Trust Company, FSB.

For more information, visit www.massmutual.com or find MassMutual on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+ and Pinterest. For information regarding MassMutual’s Retirement Services Division, you may also visit massmutual.com/retire or find us on Facebook.com/RetireSmart and YouTube.com/RetireSmart.

CRN 201710-169911

Contact: Karen Lavariere-Sanchez
413-744-7660
[email protected]

Unprecedented Alliance Of Professional Sports Leagues And Associations, Media Networks, Educators And Athletes Asks America To “RISE Together” To End Racism

October 16, 2015

RISE Aims to Achieve Lasting Impact on Race Relations Through Sports

NEW YORK, Oct. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, the nonprofit organization Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality (RISE), launched a nationwide campaign to harness the unifying power of sport to advance race relations. Founded by Stephen M. Ross, majority owner of the Miami Dolphins and chairman and founder of Related Companies, RISE is supported by an unprecedented alliance across the sports community, including: Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Football League (NFL), the National Hockey League (NHL), the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), Major League Soccer (MLS), the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP), the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) of America, USA Track and Field (USATF) and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) as well as media networks, experts, educators and partner organizations. RISE will use sports as a vehicle to promote understanding, respect and equality.

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWo6T8d2kPA&feature=youtu.be
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151015/277574LOGO

Major professional athletes have pledged their support to RISE including professional basketball players Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and LeBron James as well as professional football players Antonio Brown, Larry Fitzgerald, Greg Jennings, Ryan Tannehill, Justin Tuck and DeMarcus Ware. Many of these athletes are also featured in a series of RISE public service announcements (PSAs) launching today.

At RISEtoWIN.org, everyone can pledge to stand up against racism, treat others with respect and dignity and speak out against discrimination. The “It Takes All Colors” photo app allows visitors to upload a picture, apply their team colors and share it across social channels.

In addition to the RISE website and PSAs, RISE and its partners will also engage individuals through onsite game activation, RISE to Win Curriculum, town halls and social media.

“Sport brings together athletes, coaches and fans of all races, uniting us with shared experiences and common goals that transcend our differences. If there is any place where real equality can be found, it’s in sports. The sports community is uniquely positioned and empowered to help drive national discussion and action to unite our country, promote understanding, respect and equality and advance race relations now and for the next generation. While it would be unrealistic to say that RISE alone will end racism, we have the opportunity to harness the unifying power of sport and create a new paradigm,” said Mr. Ross.

Led by executive director Ndidi Massay, RISE aims to generate awareness, inspire dialogue and spur action towards racial equality through a three-pronged approach:

Drive participation and accountability: RISE has launched a nationwide public awareness campaign, including PSAs, the RISE pledge and game day activation to encourage communities to advance race relations in sports and beyond.
Leverage voices that break through: To reach a wide range of athletes throughout the sports community, RISE has developed strategic partnerships with sports leagues and associations, organizations, media networks, sports professionals and educational institutions.
Develop meaningful curricula and resources: RISE will provide resources and develop and deploy curricula aimed to help athletes, coaches, parents and professionals identify, resolve and prevent racially-insensitive behaviors and situations.

RISE will increase racial and cultural competency through a comprehensive and practical training program, the RISE to Win Curriculum, which promotes understanding, respect and equality amongst student-athletes and coaches. The curriculum equips student-athletes and coaches with the tools to proactively identify, resolve and prevent racially-insensitive behaviors and situations. Facilitators will be taught how to instruct and build awareness about cultural sensitivity and inclusion issues in society, especially issues related to race, racism and race relations. The organization will also measure impact by conducting benchmark studies and research on perception, attitudes and public discourse on race relations through sports.

“As the sport of Jackie Robinson and other pioneers who followed in his footsteps, we must continue to build upon our progress with mutual respect and understanding through initiatives like RISE,” commissioner of baseball Rob Manfred said. “It is incumbent upon all of us – owners, players, managers, executives and the game’s loyal fans – to work together to promote justice, equality and a positive example. We strongly believe that the power of sports can help advance this vital goal.”

Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, said, “The NBA is proud to work with RISE and the entire sports community on this critically important issue.”

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said, “We want to use our shared passion for sport to champion equality and respect for all.”

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said, “Sports is for everyone – there is no room for bias or hatred. We are proud to stand with RISE in its efforts to support inclusiveness and diversity.”

“We are proud to support RISE in its efforts to tackle racism,” said MLS commissioner Don Garber. “Our support of RISE will be an extension of the League’s Don’t Cross the Line initiative, which aims to eliminate bias, prejudice and harassment in all aspects of sport. This collective and collaborative approach is paramount in making a lasting impact.”

RISE has garnered unprecedented support across the sports community – including major sports leagues and associations, teams, individual athletes, educators and media networks such as CBS Sports, NBC Sports Group and Turner Sports. Participating members have committed to combining their collective resources, reach and influence to promote understanding, respect and equality in sports and beyond.

“RISE represents an extraordinary union across the sports world,” said Donald Sun, AVP managing partner. “No matter what sport you represent, we all believe in standing up for equality, respect and understanding.”

“The world of sports has made tremendous strides in the areas of diversity and inclusion, but we all understand that a lot more needs to be done,” said PGA of America CEO Pete Bevacqua. “Through RISE, we stand together as drivers for change, not just in sports, but society as well.”

“Athletes, coaches and sports professionals are in a unique position to make an impact on the next generation,” said Max Siegel, CEO of USATF. “We are thrilled to join RISE on this journey to create social change by advancing race relations.”

“Changing the dialogue and behaviors around race and equality in sports starts with removing barriers and creating opportunities,” said Katrina Adams, USTA chairman of the board, president and CEO. “We celebrate the notion that anyone from any background should be able to play and compete, and we commend RISE for driving awareness to this important factor.”

RISE is also working with educators and experts on race relations to help guide the discussion and ensure the campaign’s efforts adequately address racial concerns through the lens of sport.

“There is still a huge need for a push towards inclusion, respect and equality in sports,” said Kenneth L. Shropshire, the David W. Hauck Professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the faculty director of its Wharton Sports Business Initiative. “We need leaders within the sports industry and beyond to embrace and deliver RISE principles in a real and tangible way.”

Antonio Tijerino, president and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation said, “Eradicating racial discrimination is like getting rid of air pollution – it’s an overwhelming undertaking but we need to start somewhere and sports is the best platform in terms of finding common ground between ethnic groups and races. RISE aims to confront the problem head-on by providing the necessary tools to engage in honest conversations and foster a culture of dialogue in society.”

Additional Statements of Support:

Sean McManus, chairman, CBS Sports: “We are proud to join forces with RISE for such a worthy cause; we view this partnership as an important step to driving progress on and off the field.”

John Skipper, president, ESPN: “We too believe that the power of sports can affect positive change so are proud to support RISE.”

Larry Jones, executive vice president, FOX Sports: “It’s an honor to be personally involved with a stellar group of committed athletes, coaches, leagues and fans across the sports community to rise up against racial discrimination.”

Mark Lazarus, chairman, NBC Sports Group: “We are proud to support RISE in its mission to build solidarity; sports have always been a reason to come together for a common goal.”

David Levy, president, Turner Broadcasting: “Media has long been an engine of positive change, inspiring us to embrace our differences through sports, news, comedy, drama and music. This partnership with RISE gives us an opportunity to use the reach and power of our television, digital and mobile platforms to continue that legacy on a greater scale than ever before.”

Antonio Brown, Pittsburg Steelers: “RISE invites everyone to help end racial discrimination – we can all be agents of change.”

Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors: “Anyone who loves sports knows that victory is unachievable without collaboration.”

Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals: “We want the sports community to take an active role in advancing race relations; active engagement results in a stronger commitment to our shared goal.”

Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors: “We are stronger when we stand together. RISE will help us to create a better future for the next generation.”

Greg Jennings, Miami Dolphins: “Our differences can bring us together if we can bond through a shared interest like sports.”

Ryan Tannehill, Miami Dolphins: “From fans to athletes, and everybody in-between, we must help people identify and alter their behaviors to make real change.”

About RISE

Founded in 2015 by Stephen M. Ross, the Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality (RISE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the unifying power of sport to advance race relations and drive social progress. Supported by an unprecedented alliance of sports leagues and associations, organizations, educators, media networks, sports professionals, athletes and coaches, RISE will use sports as the vehicle to promote understanding, respect and equality. Through national public awareness campaigns and educational programming, RISE aims to spark enduring action. For more information, please visit RISEtoWIN.org and @RISE_to_WIN.

Contact:
Lauren O’Leary
[email protected]

Deepak Chopra and Ismael Cala launch a new Meditation Challenge: “Extraordinary Relationships”

October 16, 2015

MEXICO CITY, Oct. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The new 21-Day Chopra Center Meditation Challenge with Deepak Chopra and Ismael Cala in Spanish begins on November 16 and allows meditation to flow more easily, to be more enjoyable and inspirational for people who have tight schedules and busy minds.

“Extraordinary Relationships” was presented to the media by Cala in Mexico City, it is a totally free online interactive experience and offers participants:

Daily audio mediations guided by Deepak Chopra and Ismael Cala
Practical advice and wisdom to create loving relationships through meditation
A worldwide community of like-minded individuals to explore the benefits of meditation.

After the great success of “Creating Abundance” and “Perfect Health”, the new challenge of “Extraordinary Relationships” is expected to draw the participation of half a million people.

Free registration is open at http://www.ismaelcala.com/meditacion

“I am delighted about this association with Cala. The topic is ‘Extraordinary Relationships’ and we will accompany participants every day with practices to create harmonious and lasting relationships so they can accept loving themselves, cultivate emotional wellbeing and experience peace and inner joy,” Deepak said.

“I am grateful to Deepak for this continued work with our Hispanic public. I am excited to see how we can increase love in all areas of our life and reach a state of true connection between the mind, body and spirit,” Cala said.

About Deepak Chopra, M.D.

Deepak Chopra, M.D. is founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing and Chopra Foundation. He is a pioneer in integrative medicine and global and personal transformation. He is certified in Internal and Metabolic Medicine and Endocrinology. He is a member of the American College of Physicians and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology. Chopra is the author of more than 80 books and essays published in more than 43 languages.

About Ismael Cala

Ismael Cala is a communicator, author and international conference presenter. He hosts the CNN en Espanol program “Cala” with interviews of the most powerful and important world personalities. He appears regularly on programs including Univision’s “Despierta America”; writes a regular column which appears in over 40 Latin American and U.S. publications, and heads up the digital magazine ‘”Cala 3.0″.

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