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Honda CR-V Named 2015 Motor Trend Sport/Utility Of The Year

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Honda CR-V Named 2015 Motor Trend Sport/Utility Of The Year

– Refreshed CR-V chosen for its fuel economy, driving dynamics, long list of new safety features and overall refinement

– Noted for its new Touring trim with Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive safety technologies

– America’s best-selling SUV over the past decade


NEW YORK, Oct. 15, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Honda CR-V has won Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year for 2015.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141014/152196
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140415/73520

The CR-V claims the title with a long list of vehicle enhancements for 2015, including its improved fuel economy and uncompromised driving dynamics, thanks to the inclusion of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology™ powertrain, the launch of an all-new Touring trim, the debut of Honda Sensing™ assistive and driver safety technologies and the CR-V’s excellent value for money paradigm.

Motor Trend editor-in-chief Ed Loh, said, “The 2015 Honda CR-V impressed our judges with its extensive list of delightful design and thoughtful engineering improvements. Our editors were especially impressed by Honda’s responsive and efficient continuously-variable transmission and sophisticated safety systems – particularly the smart and seamlessly integrated Lane Keeping Assist system. Efficient, practical, and a joy to drive; the 2015 Honda CR-V does virtually everything well.”

“It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award from the expert staff at Motor Trend,” said Jeff Conrad, SVP & General Manager of Honda Division, American Honda Motor Co, Inc. “Our engineers, planners, and dealers work hard to deliver class leading products to our customers, and it’s extremely rewarding to be recognized for that hard work. This award from Motor Trend reaffirms for us that we’re meeting that goal.”

In addition to the Honda CR-V, the 2015 Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year competition included 18 other all-new or significantly updated SUVs:

BMW X4       

Lexus NX

BMW X5        

Lincoln MKC

Cadillac Escalade    

Lincoln Navigator

Chevrolet Tahoe      

Mercedes-Benz GLA

Chevrolet Suburban    

Nissan Rogue

Ford Expedition         

Porsche Macan

GMC Yukon         

Subaru Outback

GMC Yukon XL       

Toyota Highlander

Jeep Cherokee        

Volvo XC60

Motor Trend’s Sport/Utility of the Year is not a comparison test, and is only open to all-new or substantially upgraded vehicles that have gone on sale in the 12 months from November 1 of the previous year. 

To judge contenders for the award, Motor Trend’s editorial staff conducted an exhaustive three-phase testing process. Phase one includes a full tech check and weigh-in, then full track testing to establish baseline data for acceleration, braking and handling. Phase two involves three days of road loops offering a range of road surfaces and traffic conditions to evaluate ride and handling, engine and transmission smoothness and responsiveness, wind and road noise and ergonomics. An off-road section tests traction, stability, and braking control systems. In the third phase the judges debate and deliberate. The judging criteria include the following categories:

Design Advancement – well-executed exterior and interior styling; innovative vehicle packaging; good selection and use of materials.

Engineering Excellence – total vehicle concept and execution; clever solutions to packaging, manufacturing and dynamics issues; cost-effective tech that benefits the consumer.

Performance of Intended Function – how well the vehicle does the job its planners, designers, and engineers intended it to do.

Efficiency – low fuel consumption and carbon footprint, relative to the vehicle’s competitive set.

Safety – a vehicle’s ability to help the driver avoid a crash, as well as the secondary safety measures that protect its occupants from harm during a crash.

Value – competitive price and equipment levels, measured against those of vehicles in the same market segment.

Priced from $23,320, the CR-V is offered with a new Honda Earth Dreams Technology™ 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine and CVT (continuously variable transmission). The CR-V can be had in either front- or all-wheel drive, and it earns best-in-class fuel economy, with and EPA-estimated 27 mpg city/34 mpg highway/ 29mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models, and 26/24/28-mpg for all-wheel drive.

The 2015 CR-V is expected to receive a Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and its official safety ratings will be released later this year. The 2015 CR-V is manufactured exclusively for the North American market at Honda plants in the U.S., Canada and Mexico using domestic and globally sourced parts.

The recognition from Motor Trend validates the sales success of the Honda CR-V, which sold more than 300,000 units last year, and is on track to do the same in 2014. CR-V’s strong sales performance has been a consistent triumph for the Honda brand since the vehicle’s introduction, leading CR-V to become the best-selling SUV in the industry over the past decade.

For more information about the award, judging process, and the contenders check out the December issue of Motor Trend or visit www.motortrend.com.

Today, Honda is launching a 60- and 30-second anthem TV commercial, “Music Festival,” with music by Portugal. The Man, a Honda Stage band, to launch the new 2015 CR-V. The commercial speaks to Gen Y and focuses on adults who are establishing themselves and are about to or in the midst of entering their next life stage. While embracing this rite of passage, these singles, couples and young families are still dreamers and doers that continue to make time for a fun, active and fulfilling life. The CR-V advertising campaign will be supported across network primetime and sports, digital, online video, social and print.

About Honda
Honda offers a full line of reliable, fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive automobiles for American car buyers through approximately 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. The Honda lineup includes the Accord, Crosstour, Civic, Fit, CR-Z and Insight along with the Pilot, and CR-V sport-utility vehicles and the Odyssey minivan.

Honda has more models achieving an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating than any other automotive nameplate.

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for more than 30 years and currently operates 16 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2013, more than 94 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

1 Based on model year 2012 fuel economy data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and its report: “Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends: 1975 Through 2013.”
2 Longevity based on IHS Automotive, Polk U.S. vehicles in operation registration statistics 1988-2012 for Honda and non-luxury competing brands.

About Motor Trend:
Motor Trend®, a media brand of TEN: The Enthusiast Network was founded in 1949 and is internationally recognized as one of the leading brands in the automotive category.  The Motor Trend brand is comprised of  Motor Trend magazine; the award-winning website MotorTrend.com; Motor Trend Auto Shows; Motor Trend Audio; Motor Trend en Espanol; Motor Trend India; and the renowned Motor Trend Car of the Year, SUV of the Year, Truck of the Year, and Best Driver’s Car awards programs.

About TEN: The Enthusiast Network:
TEN: The Enthusiast Network is the world’s premier network of enthusiast brands, such as Motor Trend, Automobile, Hot Rod, Surfer, Transworld and GrindTV. With more than 50 publications, 60 websites, 50 events, 1000 branded products, the world’s largest automotive VOD channel, and the world’s largest action/adventure sports media platform, TEN inspires enthusiasts to pursue their passions. For more information, visit www.enthusiastnetwork.com. 


(Español) Las noches en AméricaTeVé cambiaran tu forma de irte a dormir

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Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

Stebani Cruz Brings New Sound To DC Latin Fashion Week

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Stebani Cruz Brings New Sound To DC Latin Fashion Week


WASHINGTON, Oct. 15, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — DMV recording artist Stebani Cruz will step out to rock the DC Latin Fashion Week Gala as the event’s finale performer. Cruz, who is a singer, songwriter and entrepreneur, will take the stage October 17.

Stebani Cruz, a rising Latina artist will be performing in Washington DC on October 17, 2014 at Carnegie Library for Latin Fashion Week.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141015/152333

Cruz’s music is a hot new addition to the DC recording scene, and her message is a perfect fit for an event like DC Latin Fashion Week, which showcases Latin talent.

Songwriting, music and the kind of hard work it takes to go after a dream have been the driving forces behind Cruz’s life. As a self-made entrepreneur and artist, her experience is something that today’s young Latina women can look to for inspiration. 

“I think when you believe in something so deeply, everyone else believes in it with you,” said Cruz. “Life is not really about what you’ve been through, it’s what you do with what you’ve been through to get where you want to be, and that’s where dreaming comes in. My music is about how experiences push you forward and how they don’t have to hold you back.”

Beyond inspiration, Cruz’s music is also about empowerment. One of her newest music videos, featuring her song, “Mala,” encourages women to take a stand. And Cruz’s newest song, which will be her first release in English, questions the ideas about beauty that pop culture icons define as the ideal for women.

“Beauty comes in so many shapes and sizes. I want to change the things that we’re saying as musicians,” said Cruz. “Our girls need to be warriors and they shouldn’t have to measure themselves by these standards that say beauty is all about a certain look or a certain style.”

Cruz said she’s particularly excited to bring that message to the DC Latin Fashion Week event. “This is such a great opportunity to touch the lives of people and contribute to a good cause,” she said.

ABOUT DC LATIN FASHION WEEK
The Latin Fashion Week “Capitol Fashion Award Gala,” or CFAG, is a platform for advancing the importance of contribution, innovation and the impact of Latin art, leaders and the fashion community to the global economy, specially the apparel industry. The Latin Fashion Week will pay tribute to the creativity and innovations and empower economic development event true the fashion industry.

CONTACT:
Natischa Volpe
703-863-6187
[email protected]

Website – www.stebanicruz.com  


Diversity and Multicultural Marketing Executives Join Northwestern Mutual

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Diversity and Multicultural Marketing Executives Join Northwestern Mutual

Experts bring private- and public-sector expertise


MILWAUKEE, Oct. 15, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Northwestern Mutual has added two multicultural marketing experts to its Diversity and Inclusion team.

Jose Gomez, director of diversity and inclusion, leadership development, is responsible for designing and delivering leading edge solutions in diversity, inclusion and multicultural leadership consulting strategies. His expertise includes the areas of workforce, community, marketplace, and leadership diversity.

Based in Milwaukee, Gomez previously was senior managing partner of Denver-based Multicultural Solutions, a diversity, bilingual communications and public affairs company focusing on multicultural strategies, training and communications. Prior to that Gomez served as director of diversity and corporate relations at Brinker International; as well as senior manager, corporate affairs and diversity at Walmart Stores, Inc.; and director of the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE) in Chicago, a national non-profit organization dedicated to creating professional development and workforce diversity programs. He holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Luis Cachua, director multicultural markets, will develop and lead the company’s Hispanic-integrated marketing initiatives out of Los Angeles. Cachua will be working with Northwestern Mutual’s cross functional teams and external Hispanic community partners. Cachua comes to Northwestern Mutual with significant marketing experience in financial services, having worked on multicultural market development with Wells Fargo, most recently as vice president of diverse segments strategy including management of national sponsorships and design of integrated marketing plans. Cachua holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Southern California.

“Both Jose and Luis understand the financial-services industry, are bilingual, and will be valuable assets as we continue to expand our Hispanic-market initiatives,” said Chris Meece, director of multicultural market strategy at Northwestern Mutual. “They not only bring a wealth of diversity experience in both the corporate and nonprofit worlds, they also share our belief that our company’s brand values align well with those of the Hispanic market – building trust, keeping promises, and doing the right thing for your family.”

Northwestern Mutual offers a number of tools designed specifically to help Hispanic clients and their families achieve financial security, including an informational microsite in English and Spanish (http://es.northwesternmutual.com/) and a variety of Spanish-language materials and videos on financial planning, available through Northwestern Mutual Financial Representatives.

About Northwestern Mutual

Northwestern Mutual has been helping families and businesses achieve financial security for nearly 160 years. Our financial representatives build relationships with clients through a distinctive planning approach that integrates risk management with wealth accumulation, preservation and distribution. With more than $217 billion in assets, $26 billion in revenues and more than $1.5 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than 4.2 million people who rely on us for insurance and investment solutions, including life, disability and long-term care insurance; annuities; trust services; mutual funds; and investment advisory products and services.

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI, and its subsidiaries. Northwestern Mutual and its subsidiaries offer a comprehensive approach to financial security solutions including: life insurance, long-term care insurance, disability income insurance, annuities, investment products, and advisory products and services. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company, limited purpose federal savings bank; Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company; and Russell Investments.


Pocket Shot Expands Product Line with Fresh New Premium Spirit Flavors

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Pocket Shot Expands Product Line with Fresh New Premium Spirit Flavors


EVERGREEN, Colorado, Oct. 15, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Fans of the on-the-go, single-serve alcohol pouch product can now enjoy three new flavor offerings:

  • Defrost Peppermint Schnapps (100 Proof)
  • 8 Seconds Honey Cinnamon Canadian Whiskey
  • Cherry Vodka

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141014/152129

“Listening to our customers and monitoring new flavor trends in the beverage industry are key to our continued growth and allow us to cater to the needs and tastes of a wider audience,” states developer Jarrold Bachmann.

Pocket Shot, the innovative concept that provides the consumer with a “grab and go” convenient and user-friendly package, comes in a 50 ml single serve flexible stand-up pouch. Along with the new line extension, Pocket Shot is introducing a 60-unit case consisting of five sleeves of 12 pouches each, with the colorful sleeves functioning as their own display.

“Now that we have expanded the flavor selection, we are poised to enhance distribution so more consumers can find the entire Pocket Shot line at a local store in their area,” states Bachmann.

Pocket Shot is currently produced by Frank-lin Distiller Products, Ltd. and is available through independent distributors in 25 states, Puerto Rico and Canada. Pocket Shot is also available online through independent retailers.

The Pocket Shot single pack sells for $1.49 to $1.99, with price determined by the retailer. Pocket Shot is also available in additional varietals including:

  • Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Aged Four Years
  • Imported Caribbean Gold Rum
  • Premium, Triple Distilled Vodka
  • Especial Gold Tequila Imported from Mexico
  • Brandy
  • Spiced Rum

“We’ve been on the cutting edge of pouch technology and have played an integral part in package development to enhance immediate shelf appeal and ensure there is no product leakage – a win-win for both the consumer and the retailer,” states Bachmann. The unique Branson Ultrasonic seal perfectly matches the contoured sealing surfaces of the package top, producing a 100%-clean, clear, contaminant-free seal. The Pocket Shot pouch earned a Silver Award for Sustainability in the 2012 Flexible Packaging Association’s Annual Achievement Awards.

For more information, visit www.pocketshot.com.

Contact:

Jarry Bachmann

(866) 587-6360

[email protected]

 

 


More than $430,000 raised during national Hispanic radio event to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, help fight childhood cancer

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More than $430,000 raised during national Hispanic radio event to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, help fight childhood cancer


MEMPHIS, Tennessee, Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The annual Promesa y Esperanza® (Promise and Hope) radio event once again united local Hispanic radio communities in a national effort and raised $439,119.00 in pledges to support 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/20141014/152188

The week-long campaign culminated on Oct. 3 and consisted of programming dedicated to educating and uniting the Hispanic community around the country to join the fight against childhood cancer by becoming Ángeles de Esperanza (Angels of Hope) and donating just $20 a month.

“Thanks to your generous support as an Ángel de Esperanza, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is able to help families who are facing their darkest hours and give their children a chance to live,” said Richard Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “St. Jude plays a critical role in searching for cures to defeat childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases that will save thousands of children here in the U.S., in Latin America and around the world.”

Promesa y Esperanza participating stations including affiliates of the Davidson Media Group and other independent stations such as Boston and Springfield, Massachusetts; Providence, Rhode Island; Durham, North Carolina; Norfolk and Richmond, Virginia; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Pelham, Alabama; Louisville, Kentucky; Nashville, Tennessee; Goshen, Indiana; West Palm Beach, Florida; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Kansas City, Kansas. Each station dedicated their programming and social media platforms to spreading the mission of St. Jude using #StJudePromesa and @StJude. 

“It is an honor for Davidson Media Group to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and its lifesaving mission of finding cures and saving children,” said Chris McMurray, President of Davidson Media Group. “The generous support from the radio listeners has helped St. Jude pushed the survival rate for childhood cancer from 20 to 80 percent, and we won’t stop until no child dies from cancer.”

During the radio event, listeners heard heartwarming stories of Hispanic families and patients like Ashley, who at two years old was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common type of childhood cancer. She was quickly referred to St. Jude where her dad worked in construction at the very hospital he hoped would save his child’s life. Ashley’s family has found comfort in the support provided by St. Jude staff.   

For more information about Promesa y Esperanza or to make a donation, visit promesayesperanza.org or call 1-800-998-8432

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. St. Jude has the world’s best survival rates for the most aggressive childhood cancers, and treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to 80 percent since we opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude is working to drive the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to 90 percent in the next decade. St. Jude freely shares the breakthroughs we make, 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 or following St. Jude on facebook.com/stjude and twitter.com/stjude.

 

 


Astellas Teams Up with USA Rugby and Men’s Health Network to Encourage Chicagoans to Answer the Challenge for Better Health

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Astellas Teams Up with USA Rugby and Men’s Health Network to Encourage Chicagoans to Answer the Challenge for Better Health

Company is Exclusive Healthcare Sponsor of USA Eagles vs.
New Zealand All Blacks Rugby Match at Soldier Field on Nov. 1


NORTHBROOK, Ill., Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Astellas Pharma US, Inc., in partnership with USA Rugby and national patient advocacy organization Men’s Health Network, will offer free health screenings and education around the historic match between the USA Eagles and the world champion New Zealand All Blacks rugby teams.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140416/84970

Screenings and education events will be offered near the Eagles’ practice venue in University Village on Monday, Oct. 27 and at the Soldier Field Fan Zone before the Nov. 1 match. 

“Rugby players are about as tough as they come on the outside, but for all of us it’s just as important to stay strong on the inside by proactively managing our health,” said Jim Robinson, president, Astellas Pharma US. “We hope that our partnership with USA Rugby, together with the health education programs we jointly support and advocate for, will arm thousands of people with the information they need to live a healthier tomorrow.”

Bilingual healthcare professionals will administer screenings for conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension and body fat. The free screenings are available to both men and women 18 years of age and older. Men can also get a blood test to screen for prostate cancer.

“We are pleased to be working with Astellas to encourage Chicagoans to answer the challenge of achieving better health,” said Ana Fadich, Men’s Health Network vice president. “Through these screenings, we can raise awareness and motivate individuals to understand their health risks and treatment options.”   

The first screening event will be held from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. (Central Time) on Oct. 27 at Quest Multisport, 2641 W. Harrison St, Chicago. The Eagles will practice there from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. and screening attendees are encouraged to watch the practice. Screenings will also be available from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Central Time) on Nov. 1 in the Fan Zone at the Southeast corner of the Soldier Field complex. No tickets are needed to visit the Fan Zone and advance registration is not required for either event.

“USA Rugby is proud to partner with Astellas to provide important health education to Chicagoans,” said Nigel Melville, USA Rugby chief executive officer. “Just as rugby players take ownership of their individual performance on the field, we’re challenging the larger community to take ownership of their personal health. We look forward to working with Astellas on these events to provide our fans with information that may help them maintain active and healthy lives.”

To join a conversation about these screenings and the Nov. 1 rugby match, follow the hashtag #answerthechallenge on Twitter.

About Astellas 
Astellas is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. For more information on Astellas, please visit our website at www.astellas.us. You can also follow us on Twitter at @AstellasUS.

About Men’s Health Network
Men’s Health Network (MHN) is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to reach men, boys and their families where they live, work, play and pray with health awareness and disease prevention messages and tools, screening programs, educational materials, advocacy opportunities and patient navigation. MHN is the promoter of Men’s Health Month and Men’s Health Week in June. Learn more about MHN at www.menshealthnetwork.org and follow us on Twitter @MensHlthNetwork and Facebook at facebook.com/menshealthnetwork.

About USA Rugby
Established in 1975, USA Rugby is the governing body for the sport of rugby in America and a Full Sport Member of the United States Olympic Committee. Currently headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, USA Rugby is charged with developing the game on all levels and has more than 95,000 active members, with more than 29,000 playing collegiate rugby and 35,000 playing senior club rugby. USA Rugby oversees four national teams, multiple collegiate and high school All-American sides, and an emerging Olympic development pathway for elite athletes. It also hosts more than 30 national playoff and championship events each year as a service to its members. In October 2009, the International Olympic Committee announced Rugby Sevens (the seven-a-side version of the game) will appear in the 2016 Olympic Games to be held in Rio de Janeiro. Visit www.usarugby.org for more information or follow us on Twitter @USARugby.

USA Rugby is now Work For It rugby.


Western Dental Formalizes Research Partnership with University of California, San Francisco

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Western Dental Formalizes Research Partnership with University of California, San Francisco

Studies Will Address Critical Role of Preventive Care in Improving Children’s Oral Health


LOS ANGELES, Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Western Dental, one of the nation’s leaders in accessible, affordable oral health care, announced a first-of-its-kind research collaboration agreement with the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), a leading center of health sciences research, patient care, and education.  Valerie J. Flaherman, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at UCSF and attending pediatrician at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, will lead the series of projects on behalf of UCSF.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140818/137082

“We actively support oral health care for all children, but especially for children in under-served communities,” said Louis J. Amendola, DDS, Western Dental’s Senior Vice President of Clinical Affairs.  “In collaboration with Dr. Flaherman and UCSF, we look forward to advancing the standards of care to eliminate disparities that impact oral health in our vulnerable population.”

The research projects will study the need to improve access to oral health and seek to define optimal preventive strategies for at-risk children in California and nationwide.  The scope of the project is expected to support changes in the delivery of preventive services and to also support changes in funding and reimbursement to incentivize the delivery of preventive care. 

“As a practicing pediatrician, I am troubled by the extent of tooth decay among California’s children,” said Dr. Flaherman.  “Decay is especially prevalent among children from lower-income families, but there is little research to inform us how preventive interventions can address this problem most effectively.  Working with Western Dental, we hope to determine how these interventions may be structured to improve overall oral health in children.”

Western Dental’s commitment to improve oral health care goes beyond improvement for just their patients, but for all dental patients. With the large number of patients seen annually, Western Dental, through its outreach efforts, provides dental services and oral health education to members of their communities who are most at risk for dental disease.        

The research announced today will be the first of ongoing programs undertaken by Western Dental’s new Office of Oral Health Care Research, led by Dr. Amendola. “For more than 60 years, Western Dental has been at the forefront of clinical practice standards,” said Ronald E. Inge, DDS, Chief Dental Officer at Western Dental. “Our progressive quality care service model is enhanced by our commitment to research and identifying insights that benefit the health of our patients.”

ABOUT WESTERN DENTAL
One of the nation’s largest dental providers, Western Dental (with its affiliate, Brident Dental & Orthodontics) is the leader in accessible, affordable oral health care, serving more than 800,000 patients annually in over 190 affiliated clinics throughout California, Arizona, Nevada, and Texas.  Informed by the latest research, Western Dental is committed to delivering high-quality general, orthodontic and specialty dental services in state-of-the art facilities.  For more information please visit www.WesternDental.com and www.Brident.com.

ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
UCSF is the nation’s leading university exclusively focused on health.  Now celebrating the 150th anniversary of its founding as a medical college, UCSF is dedicated to transforming health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care.  It includes top-ranked graduate schools of dentistry, medicine, nursing and pharmacy; a graduate division with world-renowned programs in the biological sciences, a preeminent biomedical research enterprise and top-tier hospitals, UCSF Medical Center and UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals.  Please visit www.ucsf.edu.


Marketing Communications’ First Minority-Owned Holding Company Created To Transform The Industry

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Marketing Communications’ First Minority-Owned Holding Company Created To Transform The Industry

The Partnership Unites The Strengths Of Eight Multicultural Companies Covering Several Disciplines To Form Commonground/MGS


NEW YORK, Oct. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Industry trailblazers, Al Garcia-Serra, Chairman/Co-Founder, MGCCOMM; Ahmad Islam, Co-Founder/Managing Partner, commonground; Manuel E. Machado, CEO/Co-Founder, MGSCOMM; Manny Vidal, President/CEO, The Vidal Partnership and Sherman Wright, Co-Founder/Managing Partner, commonground – announced today the formation of the industry’s first wholly minority-owned holding company, phase one of a multi-phase rollout. This unique model, a holding company without walls, leverages each of their expertise in multicultural and millennial consumer groups to help client partners meet marketing and business objectives.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141014/151979LOGO

The strength of Commonground/MGS rests on the unequaled owner management team’s hands-on approach, their unique lens and understanding of the new marketplace – including the role of diverse populations and millennial culture, and a holistic approach to a truly integrated agency – one company, one bottom line.

Commonground/MGS operates in a world where America is approaching a watershed moment; the tipping point when multicultural is the new mainstream. This new company believes businesses need to focus and invest financially and intellectually to win in this new marketplace where multicultural insights lead general market strategies for growth, innovation, sustainability and a competitive advantage; opening up a world of opportunities for clients who are ready to look at the US with new appreciation.

“We all realize successfully connecting with diverse audiences and the ability to provide cohesive total market solutions is more than a ‘nice to do’ – it has become a critical component of any successful organization’s strategic imperatives,” said Islam. “Our vision is to create a unique company that lives at the intersection where culture, content, technology and creativity meet.”

“While many companies are well intentioned, they need a partner and guiding light when it comes to understanding the importance and impact of culture and diversity to the bottom-line,” added Machado.  “Moreover, with millennials being the most diverse, evasive and critical consumer group – understanding cultural context is a must. We believe Commonground/MGS provides solutions to these challenges.”

Commonground/MGS— with full service offices in New York, Miami, Chicago, Houston and Los Angeles —brings together a diverse array of nearly 300 passionate marketers who truly understand the new marketplace, which leads to the development of strategies and ideas that drive client business growth. The new entity maintains 100% minority ownership and management, with projected net revenues of $50 million.

This new entity brings market expertise, industry reputation, award-winning creative and innovations. With these resources, Commonground/MGS is poised to not only be at the forefront of the new marketplace conversation, but do something transformational in the space while bringing new solutions to an industry-wide problem.  The new entity includes:

Commonground – founded in 2004, is a leading cross-consumer marketing agency committed to helping brands create authentic connections with consumers. The agency was recognized as Advertising Age’s 2012 Small Agency of the Year, named Black Enterprise’s 2014 Advertising Agency of the Year, featured in Crain’s Chicago Business 2014 Fast Fifty List, recognized in Inc.’s 2013 Hire Power Award list and featured on season two of AMC’s “The Pitch” as a winner.

MGSCOMM – founded in 2003, is an integrated consumer marketing communications agency offering a suite of services including: traditional and digital advertising, strategic planning, research, media planning and buying, creative development and account management. The agency ranked 12th largest U.S. Hispanic Agency by Advertising Age in the 2014 Hispanic Fact Pack, listed in the Hispanic Business 2014 Fastest Growing 100, and among the South Florida Business Journal 2014 50 Fastest Growing Companies.

The Vidal Partnership – founded in 1999, is a full-service agency created to challenge the brightest minds at the C-suite level to earn their respect and business. Under the leadership of its President and CEO, Manny Vidal, the agency has been named: Advertising Age A-List Agency three times; Advertising Age Multicultural Agency of the Year twice; Advertising Age Five Star Winner; Adweek’s Hispanic Agency of the Year and a three-time AHAA Creative Awards Best of Show winner.

Cunningham Group – founded in 1998, is an award winning communications firm offering multilingual public engagement and communications services for the public sector.  The firm is a leader in public sector communications and was recognized by the State of Florida for developing a communications software platform that saved the state time and money.  Its CEO, Courtney Cunningham, is an attorney and served in the administration of George H.W. Bush.

SWAY Public Relations – founded in 2003, offers a full spectrum of public relations services including: media relations, community relations, grassroots and event marketing, crisis management, blogger relations, social media, websites and content development in the U.S., Caribbean and Latin America.  The agency was listed among the U.S. Agency Rankings 2014 by PR Week.

CG Works – founded in 2012, is an independent production company focused in digital production of an array of digital media – web sites, banner ads, rich media applications, HTML emails, mobile and social media applications, also photo/video production, Illustrations, event production and print production. 

Post Master – founded in 2003, provides post-production services, utilizing state-of-the-art software and hardware to edit and render images and audio. The company offers on and off-line editing, compositing, 3-D animation, special effects, broadcast and rich media.

Run Wild Productions – founded in 2003, offers full film and HD broadcast production services including: customized selection of national directors, lighting and sound experts, location scouting, permit clearances, set crew, talent casting, wardrobe specialists, lighting a camera equipment packages, coordination and logistics and total project management. The company has produced over 400 original commercials over the past five years.

“At the end of the day, we are all entrepreneurs who have seen steady growth in arguably some of the most tumultuous times the industry has seen, because we aren’t afraid to evolve. When we look to where the opportunities for growth are, our business model is in stride with what’s happening today and what’s coming tomorrow for both clients and talent,” said Wright.  

“We will continue to invest in the next phase of incremental growth for Commonground/MGS to morph into a total market super power. We will seek to acquire companies and talent driven by an entrepreneurial spirit that, like us, want to dominate this new consumer space,” added Garcia-Serra.

About Commonground/MGS
Commonground/MGS is an innovative agency that lives at the intersection of culture, creativity, technology and content.  The agency offers clients an integrated scope of services including account planning, advertising, brand strategy, consumer promotion, cultural consulting, content/property development, data & analytics, digital/mobile solutions, event marketing, production services, public affairs and communications, public relations, shopper marketing, and social media across multiple consumer segments, with an emphasis on millennials, the most ethnically and racially diverse generation.

Commonground/MGS is headquartered in New York with offices in Miami, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles.  Current clients include: American Family Insurance, Bacardi, beIN Sports, BMO Harris, Coca-Cola, Florida Power & Light Co., HBO Latino, Hyundai Motor America, Illinois Lottery, ITT Technical Institute, Lincoln Financial Group, Miami Marlins, MilkPEP, MillerCoors, NBCUniversal, Outback Steakhouse, Primaloft, Southeast Toyota Distributors, TD Bank, The Florida Lottery, Tiffany & Co., and Verizon Wireless. www.commongroundmgs.com

Contacts:

Mia Sissac

Yvonne Lorie

Commonground/MGS

Commonground/MGS

[email protected]

[email protected]

312-618-0946

305-546-3688