Cal/OSHA Finds Employer at Fault in Window Washer’s Fall

June 15, 2015

Cal/OSHA Finds Employer at Fault in Window Washer’s Fall

SAN FRANCISCO, June 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Following an investigation into a window washer’s eleven-story fall from the roof of a San Francisco building, Cal/OSHA today cited Century Window Cleaning for five safety hazards. Two of the five hazards cited were for serious violations including the failure to secure the roof with fall protection equipment and inadequate training on the proper use of the victim’s personal fall protection equipment.

When the window washer lost his balance and fell on November 21, 2014, he landed on a moving automobile. Both the driver of the vehicle and the employee survived with serious injuries.

“While it is miraculous that this man survived a fall from this height, his fall is an essential reminder that employers are required to provide protections from the hazards of high elevation work,” said Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) Director Christine Baker. Cal/OSHA is a division of the DIR.

Cal/OSHA investigators determined that Pedro Perez, (58), was in the process of moving the extension cord of a suspended scaffold around the corner of the building at 400 Montgomery Street in San Francisco. As he moved toward the edge of the roof, he disconnected the lanyard of his fall protection equipment from an anchor point. He then lost his balance and tumbled over the edge.

“Falls from elevation are a leading cause of death and injury among workers. Cal/OSHA just concluded a statewide effort to highlight the importance of fall safety protection, including a review of fall protection equipment and the need to train on its use,” stated Cal/OSHA Chief Juliann Sum.

In total, there were five citations with proposed penalties of $12,765 issued in this case: three general, one serious and one serious accident related citations. A general violation is cited when an accident or illness resulting from the violation of a standard would probably not cause death or serious harm, but would have a direct effect on the health of employees. In contrast, a serious violation is cited when there is a realistic possibility that death or serious physical harm could result from the violation.

In 2008, Cal/OSHA cited Century Window Cleaning $2,720 for four violations, one of which was serious, following a complaint-based investigation.

According to 2013 statistics on California workplace fatalities published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 22 of 61 fatalities in the construction industry were due to slips, trips and falls. Cal/OSHA maintains helpful lists of fall protection requirements and safety information on its website.

Cal/OSHA helps protect workers from health and safety hazards on the job in almost every workplace in California. Employers who want to learn more about California workplace health and safety standards or labor law violations can access information on DIR’s website as well as on Facebook and Twitter.

Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Program provides free and voluntary assistance to employers and employee organizations to improve their health and safety programs. Employers should call (800) 963-9424 for assistance from the Cal/OSHA Consultation Program.

Employees with work-related questions or complaints may call the toll-free California Workers’ Information Line at (866) 924-9757 for recorded information, in English and Spanish, on a variety of work-related topics. Complaints can also be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA District Offices.

For media inquiries contact Erika Monterroza at (510) 286-1164 or Peter Melton at (510) 286-7046.

The California Department of Industrial Relations, established in 1927, protects and improves the health, safety, and economic well-being of over 18 million wage earners, and helps their employers comply with state labor laws. DIR is housed within the Labor & Workforce Development Agency. For general inquiries, contact DIR’s Communications Call Center at 1-844-LABOR-DIR (1-844-522-6734) for help in locating the appropriate division or program in our department.

Miller Lite Celebrates The Originals With A Texas-Sized Father’s Day Taquiza

June 15, 2015

CHICAGO, June 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — On Father's Day, Sunday, June 21, Miller Lite will bring the authentic taste of Mexico to open-air markets in San Antonio and Grand Prairie, in Dallas County. Two complimentary Taquizas will take place at Traders Village in each respective city and consumers who are 21 and older are invited to bring their "original," in this case their fathers, to celebrate with the original light beer, Miller Lite.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150615/222988

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140930/149335

During Miller Lite's Father's Day Taquiza, consumers will also have a chance to check out live entertainment and attractions in and around both Taquiza locations. In San Antonio, the Taquiza will coincide with the 5^th Annual Dia de los Daddys Car Show, showcasing vintage and custom automobiles. In Grand Prairie, dads will have the opportunity to experience a live performance by a local mariachi band and consumers will have a chance to dedicate songs to their "originals."

Details for both Father's Day Taquizas are as follows:

Locations:

San Antonio:
- Traders Village, 9333 Southwest Loop 410, San Antonio, TX, 78242
Grand Prairie:
- Traders Village, 2602 Mayfield Road, Grand Prairie, TX 75052

When:

Sunday, June 21, 2015

Time:

12 p.m. – 3 p.m.

"Family is at the center of our Latino consumers and we want to provide an experience that is reminiscent of Texan culture. An open-air cookout, Miller Lite and live entertainment is a fun way to kick off their Father's Day celebration," said Julia Watson, brand manager for Miller Lite. "We're excited to help celebrate dad, from one original to another."

The Taquizas are open to anyone 21 years of age or older. For more information on Miller Lite's Father's Day Taquiza, follow Miller Lite Latino on Facebook at facebook.com/MillerLiteLatino and on Twitter @esmillerlite. For directions to the venues visit TradersVillage.com.

About MillerCoors

Through its diverse collection of storied breweries, MillerCoors brings American beer drinkers an unmatched selection of the highest quality beers steeped in centuries of brewing heritage. Miller Brewing Company and Coors Brewing Company offer domestic favorites such as Coors Light, Miller Lite, Miller High Life and Coors Banquet. Tenth and Blake Beer Company, our craft and import division, offers beers such as Leinenkugel's Summer Shandy from sixth-generation Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company and Blue Moon Belgian White from modern craft pioneer Blue Moon Brewing Company, which celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year. Tenth and Blake also operates Crispin Cidery, an artisanal maker of pear and apple ciders using fresh-pressed American juice. The company imports world-renowned beers such as Italy's Peroni Nastro Azzurro, the Czech Republic's Pilsner Urquell
and the Netherlands' Grolsch. MillerCoors also offers pioneering new brands such as the Redd's franchise, Redd's Wicked and Smith & Forge Hard Cider. MillerCoors seeks to become America's best beer company through an uncompromising promise of quality, a keen focus on innovation and a deep commitment to sustainability. MillerCoors is a joint venture of SABMiller plc and Molson Coors Brewing Company. Learn more at MillerCoors.com, at facebook.com/MillerCoors or on Twitter through @MillerCoors.

Hispanic Scholarship Fund Celebrates 40 Years Of Supporting Latino Higher Education

June 15, 2015

Hispanic Scholarship Fund Celebrates 40 Years Of Supporting Latino Higher Education

LOS ANGELES, June 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF), the nation’s largest not-for-profit organization supporting Hispanic American higher education, announced today the commemoration of its 40th Anniversary.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140430/82709

“Since 1975, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund has provided college scholarships to 60,000 exceptional Hispanic students, as well as vital resources and tools that help them graduate and launch their professions in fields critical to the future of this country,” said Fidel A. Vargas, President & CEO, Hispanic Scholarship Fund. “We are excited to celebrate our accomplishments and to anticipate the amazing opportunities that lie ahead for the students and families we serve.”

HSF was founded June 16, 1975 when a small group of Latino leaders rallied around California educator Ernesto Robles. With the help of his wife, Dora, his friend Paul Sedillo, and Bishop Patrick F. Flores, after work and on weekends, Robles launched the National Hispanic Scholarship Fund, later renamed the “Hispanic Scholarship Fund.” His aim was to usher in an age of educational and economic equality for the 11.8 million Latinos in the U.S., at that time, by providing scholarships to outstanding Hispanic students across the country. Since then, HSF has awarded $470 million in scholarships and array of ever-increasing services for college-bound students, their parents, and the entire Hispanic community.

Today the U.S. Hispanic population has grown to over 54 million people, constituting 17% of the country’s total population. One-fourth of all public school students are Hispanic, and the 69% of Latino high school graduates are going directly to college, a rate that is now higher than that of the general population. Latinos are projected to comprise 30% of the labor force by 2050.

“It is more important than ever for HSF to provide scholarships, programs, information, and other resources that equip Hispanic students to excel, complete college and graduate studies, enter professions critical to this nation’s future, and become leaders. I am proud to be part of HSF,” said Jim McNamara, Chairman, HSF Board of Directors. “Every day, we are helping students achieve their full potential on the road to and through college.”

In preparation for its 40th Anniversary, HSF reached out to its online community to vote for a favorite commemorative logo on Facebook. The poll garnered over 10,000 votes, and the winning logo is now being used in all HSF collateral, to mark this special year.

In addition, throughout the organization’s anniversary year, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund is introducing:

HSF’s History highlighting the organization’s past and present milestones through an interactive web timeline on HSF.net
“#HSFstories” postings on HSF’s website and social media, featuring influential Latinos who serve as an inspiration to others
HSF Story Video, a website-accessed feature sharing the organization’s history and efforts in the community on its website
HSF’s 40 Ways to Give Back, a campaign, illustrating the many ways people can give back to HSF
HSF’s 40th Anniversary Awards, honoring top donors in a special edition of the organization’s Alumni Hall of Fame Gala, on October 7, 2015 in New York

“We’re thankful to our donors and partners who know the work we do together is not only important for the Latino community, but to our entire nation,” added Mr. Vargas. “We are celebrating them, as much as we are celebrating ourselves and the students and families we serve.”

About the Hispanic Scholarship Fund
Founded in 1975, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund empowers Latino families with the knowledge and resources to successfully complete a higher education, while providing scholarships and support services to as many exceptional Hispanic American students as possible. As the nation’s largest not-for-profit organization supporting Hispanic American higher education, the Fund has awarded over $470 million in scholarships and provides a range of ancillary programs for students, HSF Scholars, Alumni, and parents. For more information about the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, please visit: HSF.net.

MassMutual Research: Survey shows concerning knowledge deficiency about Social Security retirement benefits amongst Hispanics

June 15, 2015

MassMutual Research: Survey shows concerning knowledge deficiency about Social Security retirement benefits amongst Hispanics

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., June 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) today announced the results of a survey aimed to understand how much U.S. Hispanics know about Social Security retirement benefits. The results of the survey, which included a true/false quiz about Social Security facts, are concerning: Forty-seven percent of Hispanic respondents answered more than half of the basic questions about Social Security retirement benefits incorrectly. Also troubling is that only 11 percent consider themselves to be “very knowledgeable” about Social Security retirement benefits.

“Perhaps the greatest Social Security deficit in this country is the lack of education around the retirement benefits of the program, which presents an opportunity and responsibility to financial professionals,” said Michael R. Fanning Executive Vice President, U.S. Insurance Group, MassMutual. “As the Hispanic population in the U.S. continues to grow, so does the need for a solid understanding of the role that Social Security will play in their personal retirement plans.”

While many Hispanic respondents understand basic facts about Social Security retirement benefits, the findings show larger gaps in knowledge of eligibility requirements:

Citizenship is not a requirement¹: Over three-quarters of Hispanic respondents (77 percent) think that being an American citizen is necessary to receive Social Security retirement benefits, which is incorrect.
Retirement age is a mystery²: Nearly four in five Hispanic respondents (79 percent) incorrectly believe full Social Security retirement age is 65, when it actually varies depending on birth year.
Social Security retirement benefits are only paid while you are alive³: More than half (53 percent) of Hispanic respondents incorrectly believe that if their spouse passes away, they will continue to receive both their own benefit as well as their deceased spouse’s benefit. In reality, assuming qualification criteria is met they would receive the greater of their own benefit or their spouse’s benefit, but not both.

Still, Hispanics remain optimistic about the future of Social Security. Seven out of ten Hispanic respondents (71 percent) believe Social Security will be available to them when they retire, compared to 63 percent of the general population. But, only half (52 percent) think the program will have sufficient funding when they retire. This may explain why just one-fourth expect to rely more heavily on Social Security than their personal savings or other sources of retirement income, with six percent expecting to rely on Social Security alone.

“Americans who lack the proper knowledge and information about Social Security may be putting their retirement planning in jeopardy,” said Phil Michalowski, Vice President, U.S. Insurance Group, MassMutual. “In fact, many may be leaving Social Security retirement benefits they’re entitled to on the table, or incorrectly assuming what benefits may be available in retirement.”

MassMutual offers an educational guide for individuals to help make the most of your Social Security retirement benefits. Additional information is available from the Social Security Administration.

Study Methodology

The research was conducted by KRC Research on behalf of MassMutual from February 26 to March 2, 2015 via an online survey among 1,513 Americans (1,000 non-Hispanic age 25 to 65; 513 Hispanic age 18+).

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.

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/es/latino or find MassMutual on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+ and Pinterest.

¹ Source: Social Security Administration, Social Security Handbook, Evidence of U.S. Citizenship, Section 1725; http://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/handbook/handbook.17/handbook-1725.html

² Source: Social Security Administration, Full Retirement Age: If You Were Born between 1943 and 1954; http://www.ssa.gov/retirement/1943.html

³Source: Social Security Administration, Retirement Planner: Benefits for Your Spouse; http://www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/yourspouse.htm

Media Contact:
MassMutual
Paula Tremblay
[email protected]
413-744-0885

MassMutual Partners with Univision to Expand Its Commitment to the Hispanic Community

June 12, 2015

HOUSTON, June 12, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — MassMutual today announced a partnership with Univision Communications Inc., the leading media company serving Hispanic America, to deliver financial education in Spanish to Hispanic families in the Houston, Texas area. As part of the partnership, MassMutual will present a free, financial literacy workshop designed with the needs of Hispanic families in mind. The presentations will include information on budgeting, saving for college and saving for retirement, in Spanish. Prosperidad, presented by MassMutual, will take place on Saturday, June 13 from noon until 3 p.m. CT, at The Westin Houston, Memorial City, and is free and open to the public. The three-hour special event will provide Hispanic families access to a bilingual financial professional, financial information and long-term strategies to secure their financial futures and protect the ones they love.

The effort seeks to address common financial questions from how to plan a secure retirement and prepare for unexpected financial challenges to how much money is needed to send children to college.

“Financial education starts at a local and individual level,” said Dr. Chris Mendoza, Latino Markets Director at MassMutual. “Together, individuals and businesses contribute to the wellbeing of the national economy. Hispanics make up 17 percent of the total U.S. population. America’s success depends on the success of the Hispanic population, and MassMutual is committed to providing financial guidance to Latinos, one community at a time.”

The “Money Talks” portion of the event will be hosted by Renzo Heredia, the popular radio personality of 106.5 FM Más Variedad, and presented by Mariana Ruiz Posada, a financial professional with MassMutual Greater Houston, which has served local Houston communities for over 100 years. Hispanic attendees will hear tips on how to budget, manage college finances and better prepare for retirement. As part of the event, guests will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with one of the experienced financial professionals from MassMutual Greater Houston and additional Spanish-language resources will be available to the public online at MassMutual.com/Latino.

“Prosperidad events give the Hispanic community access to important financial education in the language that they’re most comfortable and in a way that is culturally relevant,” said Keith Turner, president of Advertising Sales and Marketing at Univision Communications Inc. “We are pleased to be partnering with MassMutual to provide families in the Houston area with the information and resources they need to achieve financial prosperity.”

The sponsorship with Univision is part of a broader effort by MassMutual to help Hispanics secure their personal and professional financial futures. Later this month MassMutual Greater Houston and Houston-based Bilingual Psychological Associates will host an application day for MassMutual’s LifeBridge^SM Free Life Insurance Program, on Saturday, June 20 at the offices of Bilingual Psychological Associates. The LifeBridge program offers life insurance coverage for the benefit of a child’s education, and MassMutual pays the premiums.

MassMutual has led the way in offering financial education to the Hispanic community through information, seminars and assistance to secure their financial futures. Multi-year research initiatives on Hispanic-American families and business owners have informed MassMutual’s local community involvement, education initiatives and programs such as FutureSmart and college scholarships, in addition to LifeBridge, to help them achieve their American Dream.

For access to educational information and resources in Spanish and to learn about planning for your long-term goals and objectives, visit MassMutual.com/Latino, and reach out to a MassMutual professional near you.

About MassMutual

For more information, visit www.massmutual.com or find MassMutual on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+ and Pinterest.

CONTACT: Karen Lavariere-Sanchez
[email protected]
413.744.7660

NHCLC Announces Dr. Andrea R. Ramirez as Executive Director of Faith and Education Coalition

June 12, 2015

NHCLC Announces Dr. Andrea R. Ramirez as Executive Director of Faith and Education Coalition

Ramirez to Guide Education Initiatives including Hispanic Education Sunday,
Raising the Standards, and Faith & Education Coalition

SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 12, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC/Conel) has appointed Dr. Andrea R. Ramirez as Executive Director of the Faith & Education Coalition. Dr. Ramirez will oversee key education initiatives for the NHCLC including their annual Education Sunday, the Raising the Standards project, and the Faith & Education Coalition. Dr. Ramirez will also direct strategic planning for the Hispanic Education Summit. She brings to this new role her broad experience as an academic, curriculum developer, and organizational leader. Dr. Carlos Campo, who led the NHCLC’s education initiative for the past year, will continue serving as Chair for the Alliance of Hispanic Education as he assumes a new role as President of Ashland University.

“We are honored to have Dr. Andrea Ramirez step into this vital leadership role,” comments Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, President of NHCLC/Conel. “She is uniquely equipped to lead our education initiatives, with a strong academic background as well as a passion for Latino student success. I’m excited to have her skills dedicated at this nexus of biblical justice – the crossroads of faith and education.”

Dr. Ramirez (MBA, PhD in Organizational Leadership) is leading strategic planning for Education Sunday, observed annually on the first Sunday of September (September 6, 2015) in thousands of Hispanic churches. Local church leaders can sign up for Education Sunday and download resources at www.FaithandEducation.com. Ramirez encourages churches to make a difference for their students as they return to school this fall: “In light of the crisis in our country where the quality of children’s education is often dictated by zip code, Education Sunday calls upon the family of faith to get involved. Together we can help close the education equality gap for Hispanic students.”

“Education Sunday is just the beginning. We urge church leaders to go before the Father to ask for wisdom on how to best support students in their local communities,” says Ramirez. “As we commit ourselves to raising the standards for high and equal education across all states, we are empowering the next generation to love the Lord with all of their minds.”

NHCLC/CONEL education initiatives and resources are found online at www.faithandeducation.com, alongside links to Christian university and seminary partners.

NHCLC/CONEL is the world’s largest Hispanic Christian organization. It serves as a representative voice for the more than 100 million Hispanic Evangelicals assembled in over 40,000 U.S. churches and another 500,000 congregations spread throughout the Spanish-speaking diaspora. For additional information, visit http://www.nhclc.org.

HITN-TV to Cover the 58th Annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade

June 12, 2015

BROOKLYN, N.Y., June 12, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue will once again turn into a beautiful sea of red, white and blue in honor of the 58^th Annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade. To make sure everyone in New York City and beyond has a chance to celebrate the rich culture and traditions of Puerto Rico, HITN-TV will present a special coverage of the Puerto Rican Day Parade from New York City. Prior to the presentation of the Parade, HITN-TV will present, Puerto Rico Celebra, a documentary that will take the viewer on a journey to experience the 21 most important cultural festivals held on the Caribbean island.

Join acclaimed journalist and commentator Gerson Borrero as he gives you an inside look at the star-studded Parade extravaganza. This year’s parade ambassadors include: Oscar, Emmy, Grammy and Tony-winning entertainer Rita Moreno leading as the Parade’s Grand Marshal, superstar Victor Manuelle and Emmy, Grammy and Tony winner Lin-Manuel Miranda. Plus many more …

So if you can’t be one of the over one million people who attend the parade this Sunday, then make sure to tune in and begin your celebration with the Puerto Rico Celebra documentary, followed by HITN-TV’s special coverage of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade. Join us to show your love for la isla del encanto.

WHAT: HITN-TV to air coverage of the “58th Annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade” and the documentary “Puerto Rico Celebra”.

WHEN: Sunday, June 14^th “Puerto Rico Celebra” at 7:30 p.m. EDT (4:30 p.m. PDT) and “National Puerto Rican Day Parade” at 9:00 p.m. EDT (6:00 p.m. PDT)

WHERE: To view your local cable and satellite listings for details visit:
http://www.hitn.tv/donde-ver-hitn

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141114/158806LOGO

New Public Service Advertising from U.S. Forest Service and Ad Council Encourages Families to Discover the Nature in Their Neighborhood

June 12, 2015

New Public Service Advertising from U.S. Forest Service and Ad Council Encourages Families to Discover the Nature in Their Neighborhood

Discover the Forest PSA Campaign Released in Advance of National Get Outdoors Day on June 13th

WASHINGTON, June 12, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In an effort to motivate parents and tweens (ages 8-12) to spend more time outdoors and reconnect with nature, the U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council launched today a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) as an extension of their Discover the Forest campaign.

Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7536151-ad-council-discover-the-forest/

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150612/222669

“Get Outdoors Day provides an exceptional opportunity to introduce kids and their families to the helpful benefits and unique experiences nature offers,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. “It also encourages all citizens to connect to and appreciate the special settings, natural treasures and amenities of our national forests and grasslands. We hope these new PSAs will encourage families to see their urban forests in a new light and inspire them to have their own nature experiences no matter where they live.”

The new PSAs are an extension of the Discover the Forest campaign first launched by the U.S. Forest Service and Ad Council in 2009. Created pro bono by Burrell Communications, this year’s creative targets parents and caregivers of tweens and shows how accessible outdoor spaces are, even when living in an urban area. Using the tagline “Every neighborhood has a Naturehood,” the PSAs aim to encourage families to explore forests and parks closer to their homes. Through unique outdoor experiences, tweens feel connected to nature, ultimately creating a lifelong interest in spending time with nature and a legacy of stewardship.

“Living in a busy city, it’s sometimes easy to forget how accessible nature is and that every day brings the opportunity to find refuge and relaxation outdoors,” said Lisa Sherman, president & CEO of the Ad Council. “Spending time in a forest offers so many mental and physical health benefits for children. Our hope is to encourage more parents to recognize their local nature and experience it as a family.”

More than 80 percent of Americans live in cities, but fortunately, families don’t have to leave the city to take their kids on an adventure to the forest. According to research done by Euro RSCG, 88 percent of children today say they like being in nature, and 79 percent wish they could spend more time there. Additionally, children who play outside have lower stress levels and more active imaginations, become fitter and leaner, develop stronger immune systems and are more likely to become environmentally conscious in the future.

“It’s really easy to forget about your local forest,” said Lewis Williams, Chief Creative Officer at Burrell. “For example, here in Chicago, there’s kayaking in Lincoln Park and along the Chicago River. Most of us walk, run or drive through a park daily without ever taking the time to explore it. Our goal was to let parents know in an entertaining and relatable way – it’s just a short ride, drive or walk down the block to your Naturehood.”

The new PSAs were launched to coincide with National Get Outdoors Day (GO Day) on June 13^th, which will include a series of events offering traditional and nontraditional outdoor activities across the nation. This is a perfect opportunity for families to explore forested areas near their city. The events include special guests like Smokey Bear and Woodsy Owl, and offer a mix of activities including learning how to use a fishing pole, pitch a tent and geocaching.

These PSAs will be supported through the recently redesigned campaign website, www.DiscoverTheForest.org (www.DescubreElBosque.org), which includes a list of activity ideas and a convenient forest locator, powered by Nature Find™ and GoogleMaps, allowing users to find the forest or park closest to them. The campaign also has a corresponding Facebook page, Instagram handle and Twitter account, where you can further explore the beauty of the forest and the health benefits associated with spending time outside in urban forests.

The Ad Council is distributing the new PSAs to media outlets nationwide this week and the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space donated by the media.

U.S. Forest Service:
The U.S. Forest Service (www.fs.fed.us) manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands for the American Public. Its mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The U.S. Forest Service is the agency responsible for overseeing the use of Smokey Bear in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and The Advertising Council.

Ad Council:
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshaling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of public service campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has affected, and continues to affect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit Adcouncil.org, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or view our PSAs on YouTube.

Burrell:
Burrell Communications Group (www.burrell.com) is one of the nation’s leading multicultural marketing communications agencies. Burrell is best known for building powerful brands and offers a full range of services including: advertising production, digital, account planning, research, media, public relations and engagement marketing. Led by Co-CEO’s McGhee Williams Osse and Fay Ferguson, the agency is headquartered in Chicago and also has an office in Los Angeles. Both locations serve a blue-chip client roster including Procter & Gamble, McDonald’s, Toyota, Comcast, General Mills and Hilton Worldwide. In 1999, the agency formed a strategic alliance with Paris-based Publicis SA, the world’s third largest agency network.

Every Neighborhood has a Naturehood www.discovertheforest.org

If You Receive Or Are Credited Royalties from UMG Records, Inc., Capitol Records, LLC, And Their Related Entities, You May Be Entitled to Claim Payments or Credits Based on Past Royalties and Benefit from Increased Future Royalties for Digital Downloads and Mastertones

June 12, 2015

If You Receive Or Are Credited Royalties from UMG Records, Inc., Capitol Records, LLC, And Their Related Entities, You May Be Entitled to Claim Payments or Credits Based on Past Royalties and Benefit from Increased Future Royalties for Digital Downloads and Mastertones

SEATTLE, June 12, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The following statement is being issued by Garden City Group, LLC regarding the case James v. UMG Recordings, Inc.

What is this Case about?

A proposed Settlement has been reached in a lawsuit involving how certain US Labels, affiliated with and including UMG Recordings, Inc. and Capitol Records, LLC, have calculated royalties for sales and exploitations of digital downloads, mastertones, and, as to Capitol Records, LLC, streams. The Plaintiffs claim that these transactions should be treated as “licenses” rather than “sales” of records for purposes of calculating royalties. Defendants deny these claims and contend that they properly calculated and paid royalties.

Am I in the Class?

You may be a member of the Class if you are entitled to receive or are credited royalties pursuant to a contract with one of the US Labels covered by the Settlement initially dated between January 1, 1965 and April 30, 2004, or have been treated by a Capitol US Label as subject to the Capitol Legendary Artists Program. More detailed information on the proposed Settlement can be found in the Settlement Agreement available at www.umgsettlement.com.

Which US Labels are Included?

US Labels means UMG Recordings, Inc. and Capitol Records, LLC, as well as their wholly or partially-owned US recorded music subsidiaries, divisions, and business units, their predecessors-in-interests, and any affiliated entity or joint venture on whose behalf they may enter into litigation settlements. The Settlement Agreement contains a non-exhaustive list of US Labels.

What are my Options?

If you are eligible and want to receive a payment or credit for past royalties from the proposed $11.5 million settlement fund, and be eligible for increases in how royalties are calculated in the future, you must submit a fully completed and signed Claim Form postmarked on or before August 11, 2015 to: UMG Settlement, c/o GCG, P.O. Box 10181, Dublin, OH 43017-3181, or via email to [email protected]. Claim Forms can also be downloaded from www.umgsettlement.com.
You may remove yourself from both the Settlement and the lawsuit by opting out by August 11, 2015. You will not be eligible for the Settlement benefits and will not be bound by the terms of the proposed Settlement. For information on how to opt out, visit www.umgsettlement.com.
You can object to the Settlement by writing to the Court by August 11, 2015. For more information, visit www.umgsettlement.com.
You can do nothing. If you do nothing, you will receive no payment, and you will give up your rights to sue the US Labels about the claims in this case.

Has the Court approved the Settlement?

The Court has preliminarily approved the Settlement and will finally determine whether the proposed Settlement is fair, reasonable, and adequate at a Fairness Hearing currently set on April 13, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. at San Francisco Courthouse, Courtroom 10 – 19th Floor, 450 Golden Gate Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102. The Class will be represented by Class Counsel; you are not required to attend the hearing, but you or your own lawyer may attend at your own expense. Class Counsel’s motion requesting attorneys’ fees of $2,875,000.00 and costs of $450,000.00 along with enhancement awards for the 14 Class Representatives for assisting with the litigation that total $185,500.00 will be available for viewing on the Settlement Website listed below after they are filed.

Where Can I Get Additional Information?

This is only a summary. The terms of the Settlement determine eligibility, benefits, and rights of Class Members. If you have any questions regarding this Settlement, visit www.umgsettlement.com. You may also contact the Settlement Administrator at (855) 896-0636 or write to: UMG Settlement, c/o GCG, P.O. Box 10181, Dublin, OH 43017-3181.

DO NOT CONTACT THE COURT OR THE DEFENDANTS.

New Data: Nearly 1 Out of 4 GRE® Test Takers Retest, Most Improve Scores

June 11, 2015

New Data: Nearly 1 Out of 4 GRE® Test Takers Retest, Most Improve Scores

Most people who took a GRE test a second time in 2014 did better

PRINCETON, N.J., June 11, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The ScoreSelect^® option, available with all GRE^® tests, has been attracting positive attention among graduate and business school aspirants. The ScoreSelect option allows students who take the test more than once to send schools their best scores.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150611/222454-INFO

In 2014, the percent of people taking the GRE^® revised General Test a second time grew 15 percent compared to 2013, and a new analysis by Educational Testing Service (ETS) showed that most people who opted to retest improved their scores.

The analysis reviewed GRE test-taker performance in 2014 around the world. When comparing an individual’s initial score to the subsequent score, most saw favorable gains. Improvements were noted on all three measures of the GRE revised General Test. Of special interest:

Nearly 60 percent of test takers scored higher on the Verbal Reasoning measure
More than 60 percent of test takers scored higher on the Quantitative Reasoning measure

“During 2014, the number of repeat tests reached an all-time high,” said Dawn Piacentino, director of communication and services for the GRE Program at ETS. “Our research showed that nearly one out of four people take the GRE test a second time.”

She added that some of the GRE program’s beneficial policies are contributing factors leading to repeat testing. “We introduced the ScoreSelect option for GRE test takers, so that students could take a GRE test, once or more than once, and have up to five years to send what they felt were their best scores. It’s about helping people feel confident and do their best. No immediate test-day decisions. No worrying about any second chances. Just relax and do your best, so you can focus on your personal success — in school and, ultimately, in your career.”

The ScoreSelect option has been growing in popularity, with about eight out of 10 GRE test takers stating that it is valuable. Since its introduction, the number of people retaking a GRE test has risen year over year. The GRE test also has test taker-friendly features — the ability to skip questions and go back, or change answers within a section — which are providing value. Furthermore, a recent ETS study showed that 95 percent of GRE test takers changed at least one answer, and most improved their scores.

“Not everyone’s score goes up every time, but the data show that test takers do better when they have the ability to thoughtfully change their answers and when they take the test a second time,” said Piacentino. “We talk about getting the power of confidence with the GRE revised General Test. It’s about helping test takers feel good about what they need to do.”

GRE scores are accepted by thousands of graduate-level schools worldwide, including more than 1,200 business schools that now accept GRE scores for admission into their MBA programs. In 2014, the number of people taking a GRE test with intended study in business grew by 18 percent compared to the prior year and, according to a recent Kaplan survey, nearly eight out of 10 MBA programs actually have no preference about GRE scores vs. other standardized scores.

“This is good news for students taking a GRE test,” said David Payne, ETS Vice President and COO, Global Education. “GRE score use is on the rise. We have heard from many institutions that MBA applicants with GRE scores are not only welcome, but a growing percentage would like even more applicants with GRE scores. By this next admissions cycle, there will be a lot more MBA applicants with GRE scores.”

For more information about the GRE revised General Test or to register to take a GRE test, please visit www.ets.org/gre. The new analysis referred to above is available upon request; please contact Jason Baran at [email protected].

About ETS
At ETS, we advance quality and equity in education for people worldwide by creating assessments based on rigorous research. ETS serves individuals, educational institutions and government agencies by providing customized solutions for teacher certification, English language learning, and elementary, secondary and postsecondary education, and by conducting education research, analysis and policy studies. Founded as a nonprofit in 1947, ETS develops, administers and scores more than 50 million tests annually — including the TOEFL^® and TOEIC^® tests, the GRE^® tests and The Praxis Series^® assessments — in more than 180 countries, at over 9,000 locations worldwide. www.ets.org

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