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Statement From Live Nation Re: Greek Theatre

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Statement From Live Nation Re: Greek Theatre


LOS ANGELES, Jan. 27, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Greek Theatre is an incredible Los Angeles treasure, owned by the people of this city. Live Nation has delivered a superior proposal that will set a new standard for this iconic venue, with plans to invest heavily to return it to its rightful place as a world-class entertainment destination for fans and artists while being sensitive to neighbors in the surrounding community.

We remain confident that the full City Council will be guided by the merits of our proposal – not the political strong-arm tactics of our opponent. Selecting Live Nation’s superior financial bid has far-reaching repercussions well beyond the Greek Theatre: much of the revenue generated by Live Nation will support critically-important Recreation and Parks programs throughout the entire city.

Ultimately, the Greek Theatre contract will be awarded by the Board of Recreation and Parks Commissioners, which has already voted unanimously on behalf of Live Nation – joining Recreation and Parks staff and a panel of independent, expert evaluators.  We outscored the Nederlander/AEG bid, earning 91% of all possible points compared to their total of 79%. Our commitment to Union labor at the venue is stronger. And our financial proposal is far superior, delivering nearly $10 million more at a minimum, and a total of $30 million more when comparing our guaranteed performance minimum to Nederlander’s historic average. We also commit to investing more than twice as much in capital improvements as Nederlander, which failed to complete many of the improvements it promised years ago.

Live Nation remains committed to operating the Greek Theatre to the highest standard, driven by hometown pride. Live Nation is a locally-based company. We employ 2,500 people in Los Angeles County through our corporate headquarters and many local venues, which include the House of Blues, the Wiltern Theater and the Palladium. We’re proud to be named the world’s #1 concert promoter by Pollstar magazine for the past eight consecutive years.

When Nederlander pursued the Greek Theatre contract 15 years ago, the process became so mired in politics that the L.A. Times termed it a “Greek Tragedy.” This year, we are confident the City will avoid a sequel. The extended team at Live Nation is committed to earning this contract and operating the Greek Theatre in a way that will make all of Los Angeles proud.

 


2015 Joyce Awards Announced

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2015 Joyce Awards Announced


CHICAGO, Jan. 27, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Four collaborations between artists of color and leading arts and cultural organizations in the Great Lakes region have received 2015 Joyce Awards to present new works designed to engage, communicate and build communities. The cash awards of $50,000 each will go to partnerships in Detroit, Chicago and the Twin Cities.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150126/171460LOGO

The Joyce Awards, the only program supporting artists of color in major Great Lakes cities, aims to strengthen cross-cultural understanding by bringing diverse audiences together. The Chicago-based Foundation has awarded more than $2.4 million to commission 46 new works since the program started in 2003.

“Every year, we have the honor of identifying and rewarding artists and organizations that are redefining and celebrating our diverse communities through these amazing collaborations,” said Joyce Foundation President Ellen S. Alberding. “We are so pleased to support new works by artists that change their street, their community, their city and their world.”

The 2015 winners comprise the following partnerships:

Sanford Biggers and the Museum of Contemporary Art of Detroit
Sanford Biggers will partner with MOCAD to create a multi-disciplinary work titled, “Subjective Cosmology.” Biggers, an interdisciplinary artist working in film, video, installation, sculpture, music and performance, will spend a year interacting with Detroit’s art and music communities in preparation for a seminal exhibition that continues his practice of broadening our understanding of American history.

“This Joyce Award will enable me to engage an existing network of Detroit musicians and artists while forging new relationships and raising visibility through a series of performances, programs and community-based projects,” Biggers said. “This effort will coalesce in the form of an exhibition in the fall of 2016 at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit.”

Nari Ward and Detroit’s Power House Productions
Jamaica-born artist Nari Ward will create a dramatic sculpture for a vacant lot recently converted into Ride It Sculpture Park. Ward’s work, which has exhibited at the Whitney, The Walker Art Center and Mass MOCA, examines issues of race, poverty and consumer culture. In conjunction with Power House Productions, the Joyce Award will allow Ward to spend nearly a year in Detroit to gain inspiration and source local materials to create a beacon of art in the most unexpected of places.

“I have always wanted to come back and do another project in Detroit,” Ward said. “The opportunity to work with Power House Productions on a large scale public sculpture offers me this opportunity. I look forward to encounter, experiment with, and accompany a community with humility and respect.”

Helado Negro and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra’s Liquid Music Series
As part of the SPCO’s cutting-edge Liquid Music series, Helado Negro (the moniker for musician and composer Roberto Carlos Lange), will stage his immersive electronica music experience, “Island Universe Story” at the new Ordway Concert Hall on March 21, 2015. The Joyce Award allows the SPCO to partner with Helado Negro to bring this groundbreaking, Latin-inspired sonic performance to new audiences with a group of world class musicians who have performed with Wilco, Stereolab and David Byrne.

“Receiving the Joyce Award reinforces my confidence with the work I make and helps create more access points to my art,” Helado Negro said. “In the past I’ve had to constrain my work to fit within my means, but this opportunity allows me to expand and fully realize my creative vision. I can bring all my favorite people and artists I admire together into one space to generate new music and perform it in a completely new way.”

Sandra Delgado and Chicago’s Teatro Vista
Colombian American actress and playwright, Sandra Delgado, will activate her Joyce Award to stage a new interactive theater experience based on the 1960s Chicago nightclub, La Habana Madrid. The Teatro Vista production will bring La Habana back to life to tell the stories of the how this venue served as a gathering place for Puerto Rican, Cuban, Colombian and Dominicans immigrants settled on the city’s north side. Delgado will transport the audience back to 1965 and upon entering the theater they will become “patrons” of La Habana.

“Ever since my father told me about the long gone nightclub La Habana Madrid, I knew I had to bring back this lost part of Chicago’s history and shed light on the Latinos who helped build and shape this great city,” Delgado said. “The Joyce Award allows me to create meaningful work in and about the city I love and provides Teatro Vista and me the time, space and artists to bring this musical, technicolor, politically charged era back to life.”

Angelique Power, Joyce’s Senior Program Officer for Culture, said this year’s recipients show the many ways artists are working outside of “traditional” art spaces.

“The 2015 Joyce Awardees are all experimenting with new concepts to create change – erecting a permanent, significant sculpture in the midst of a skate park, creating an immersive art experience in a city, marrying classical music with psychedelic electronica, and paying homage to the Afro-Caribbean experience by recreating a 1960s nightclub.”

About The Joyce Foundation
The Joyce Foundation supports the development of policies that both improve the quality of life for people in the Great Lakes region and serve as models for the rest of the country. We focus on today’s most pressing problems while also informing the public policy decisions critical to creating opportunity and achieving long-term solutions. The Culture Program focuses on strengthening and diversifying arts organizations, building capacity within the arts sector and investing in the creative capital of artists of color through the Joyce Awards, an annual competition that has spawned almost 40 new major works and aims to change the canon of art history. Learn more at joycefdn.org

Contact: Jason Schumann
[email protected]
612-816-5718

 

 


Food Safety Before, During, and After a Power Outage

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SILVER SPRING, Maryland, Jan. 27, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — January 2015 is winding down … but not without the potential for the first big snowstorm of the year. As Winter Storm Juno bears down on the East Coast, there is a potential for dangerous blizzard conditions and power outages. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration reminds you that power outages can happen at any time – and can affect the safety of your food. Ensure that food stays safe by having a plan in place and knowing what food safety precautions to take if a power outage does occur.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090824/FDALOGO

Be Prepared

Plan ahead by stocking up on supplies in advance, or knowing where to obtain them if needed.

  • Use a refrigerator and freezer thermometer, and check before an outage to ensure that the refrigerator temperature is at or below 40 °F and the freezer is at or below 0 °F.
  • Plan for ice. Know where you can get dry or block ice. Make ice cubes and freeze containers of water or gel packs to help keep food cold in the freezer, refrigerator, or coolers.
  • Keep coolers on hand to store refrigerated food if the power will be out for more than 4 hours.
  • Freeze refrigerated items that you may not need immediately and group food together in the freezer.
  • Stock your pantry with a few days worth of ready-to-eat foods that do not require cooking or refrigeration.

If the Power Goes Out

Cold temperatures slow the growth of harmful bacteria, so keep food at safe temperatures to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours, and a full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if unopened.
  • Use ice (dry or block, ice cubes, and frozen containers of water or gel packs) to keep your refrigerator and freezer as cold as possible.

When Power is Restored

Check the temperatures inside your refrigerator and freezer before consuming any food.

  • If the power was out for no more than 4 hours, refrigerated food should be safe as long as the doors were kept closed. Discard any perishable food (such as meat, poultry, seafood, milk, eggs, or leftovers) that has been above 40 °F for 2 hours or more.
  • If the freezer thermometer reads 40 °F or below, food is safe and may be refrozen. If you did not have a thermometer in the freezer, check each package to determine its safety; you can’t rely on appearance or odor. If the food still contains ice crystals or is 40 °F or below, it is safe to refreeze or cook.
  • Be aware that perishable foods that are not kept adequately refrigerated or frozen may cause foodborne illness if consumed, even after they are thoroughly cooked.

Learn more and watch a video about food safety during a power outage.

Contact: Media: 1-301-796-4540 Consumers: 1-888-SAFEFOOD (toll free)

 


IZON Technologies, LLC, Grants Exclusive Glasses-Free 3D License to W.A. Howell and Associates for Mobile Healthcare Devices

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IZON Technologies, LLC, Grants Exclusive Glasses-Free 3D License to W.A. Howell and Associates for Mobile Healthcare Devices

MELD Systems Set to Develop and Manufacture


ORLANDO, Fla., Jan. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — IZON® Technologies, LLC, has granted an exclusive license for its glasses-free 3D technology to W.A. Howell & Associates, LLP, Newport Beach, Ca. According to Joseph DiFrancesco, CEO of IZON, based in Orlando, the license is applicable to healthcare software development for portable medical devices such as tablets and mobile phones.

W.A. Howell stated: “IZON’s proprietary technology is a real game changer for us by providing the healthcare industry the only mobile and tablet devices that give physicians the ability to analyze and prescribe treatment remotely employing powerful 3D technology— and forever eliminating the need for glasses. We’re anticipating full certification under the Affordable Care Act and its Meaningful Use demands.”

Howell has licensed MELD Systems, Inc., a leading software development company located in Denver and Bangalore, India, to build its 3D mobile product line.

“We recognize the significance that IZON’s 3D technology brings to the healthcare market,” said MELD Systems CEO Thomas Levin. “This technology is a critical tool for 21st century healthcare delivery and will be in high demand globally by many healthcare entities such as universities, hospitals, clinics, private practices, and laboratories.”

“IZON is pleased to be in business with W.A. Howell and MELD Systems,” stated DiFrancesco. “We anticipate a major win through this partnership, and look forward to a successful rollout later this year.”

IZON also provides glasses-free 50″ and 65″ Ultra HD 3D televisions that play stereo content up to 2160P for markets including digital displays for hotels, retail stores, shopping malls, sports arenas, fast food outlets, schools and universities, and casinos.

IZON will be at ICE 2015 in London for meetings with casino owners and gaming manufacturers February 4 and 5.

Notice:
This is not an offering. The information contained in this press release is being disseminated for informational purposes only and may contain forward looking statements that may or may not occur.  Investors should not invest without seeking the advice of their financial advisor.


Orange County Youth-Led Community Grassroots Effort Stops Alcohol Sales in Movie Theater

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Orange County Youth-Led Community Grassroots Effort Stops Alcohol Sales in Movie Theater


ALISO VIEJO, California, Jan. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Alcohol Justice is reporting that the Aliso Viejo city council voted Wednesday night (1/21) to deny Regal Entertainment Group’s Edwards Aliso Viejo 20 & IMAX Theater a license to serve beer and wine.  The 4 to 1 vote against the alcohol license was the result a strong grassroots effort that generated 2 demonstrations, a website, a petition with 1500 signatures, hundreds of emails to council members, over 150 citizens attending city council meetings, 50 speakers with over 2 1/2 hours of public comment against the license, and a number of newspaper and TV stories.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110727/DC41105LOGO

“The significance of this victory should not be underestimated,” stated Michael Scippa, Director of Public Affairs for Alcohol Justice, the San Francisco Bay Area-based industry watchdog. “A community of concern came together, led by youth, and said NO to more alcohol availability in their city. Less availability means less harm, especially to young people.” 

The city council first met on January 7th to vote on the issue.  Around 30 citizens came to the meeting with 7 giving public comment against the license.  With youth leading much of the effort after that point, a dozen high school and middle school students joined in demonstrating in front of the theater on a Saturday and Friday evening.  “I was surprised at how many people cared about this; every teen my age signed the petition without hesitation,” said Jacob Hansen, a freshman at Aliso Niguel High School who presented the petition signatures at the following city council meeting. 

At the next council meeting January 21st, 150 concerned citizens attended, with 47 citizens voicing public comment (all against the license).  Some expressed concerns over intoxication and attracting a different crowd of people, and even speculation over how a child’s experience using the restroom might change if there are adults present that have been drinking.  Many arguments quoted statistics linking alcohol availability to underage drinking and adolescent alcoholism.  Youth speakers cried hypocrisy that the high school holds a red ribbon week urging students to stay away from alcohol, and yet the city planning department approved putting alcohol in the theater armrests next to them.

Unconvincing arguments from the theater included the need to stay competitive with other theaters and a willingness to make whatever modifications necessary to comply with the license requirements. 

Mayor Pro Tem Mike Munzing expressed his desire to approve the alcohol license and dismissed the public comments as “…all based on emotion with no facts,” prompting some attendees to leave the room in protest.  Councilman Phil Tsunoda reaffirmed his adamant opposition to the license and, as he had done in the first meeting, motioned to deny the alcohol license to the theater.  Mayor William Phillips seconded his motion and the council then voted 4 to 1 to repeal the approval of the license. Munzing was the lone council member to vote against the repeal.

“We won the case! No alcohol in our theater!” posted Kenny Virgin, a junior at Aliso Niguel High School who had participated with his sister in the two demonstrations and had collected hundreds of signatures.  Under his post, his father commented, “It was a good experience for our youth to see that they can influence our community for good.”

“The Aliso Viejo theater advocates and city council are to be highly commended for challenging the social norm that says to enjoy any activity you need a glass of booze in your hand,” added Scippa. “Alcohol Justice hopes that this impressive victory will empower other communities across the country to take similar actions to reduce alcohol availability and harm.”

For more information: www.alcoholfreemovies.com  and www.alcoholjustice.org

Contact: Ken Virgin 949 916-7401
Michael Scippa 415 548-0492

 


Avocados from Mexico Ignites a Movement by Motivating Latina Moms and Their Families to Join the Echale Challenge

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DALLAS, Jan. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Among the top ranked priorities for moms is always the health and wellbeing of their families. In 2015, Avocados from Mexico (AFM) will help ignite a movement among Hispanic families by offering easy tips for more nutritious meals, as well as simple exercise activities for the whole family to enjoy. Avocados from Mexico brand ambassador and cooking show host, Maggie Jimenez will serve as the Echale Challenge spokesperson and help motivate Latina moms to take the Echale Challenge. The challenge, which begins February 9, 2015, will award participants that are the most active via social media, showing how they are adding more fruits and vegetables to their diets and exercising with weekly prizes and a grand prize of $10,000. 

Aguacates de Mexico #EchaleChallenge

“The Echale Challenge is a great platform for Latina Moms to connect with their kids and take part in a movement that can help nurture them,” said Stephanie Bazan of Avocados of Mexico. “Working to help promote more nutritious eating habits and active lifestyles, the Echale Challenge mission is to motivate and inspire families across the nation.”

Knowing that Hispanic moms already have busy schedules, participating in the Echale Challenge is quick and easy. Every week AFM will provide tips and weekly themed recipes focusing on breakfast, lunch/snacking and dinner as well as suggestions for family activities. Participants will be able to register, receive notifications and showcase their activity and progress via a mobile app.  

How it works:

  1. Visit facebook.com/aguacatesdemexico to sign up for the 21-day challenge and access recipes, tips and health information
  2. Pledge to add more fruits and vegetables (including avocados) to your dishes and be more active
  3. Post pictures throughout the week showing Echale Challenge-inspired recipes and share your journey with others via your social media channels using #EchaleChallenge 
  4. Earn points by encouraging your friends and family to join the challenge
  5. Those that share the most pictures and encourage others to join will be entered to win $5,000, awarded on a weekly basis with a grand prize of $10,000 awarded to the most active after the 21-days are over

“As a mother of 2 young girls the Echale Challenge is an important movement to get Latina Moms to engage with their families on the topic of health and wellness in a fun way through social and mobile technology,” said Maggie Jimenez.  “This is a great way to unite Latina moms and their kids on overall wellbeing.” Maggie Jimenez will visit Latina moms and families across the U.S. in January and February to conduct outreach in the Latino community and encourage others to join the movement. Visit www.facebook.com/aguacatesdemexico for updates.

About Avocados from Mexico
Avocados from Mexico (AFM) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA), formed for the purpose of advertising, promotion, public relations and research for all stakeholders of Avocados From Mexico. Under agreements, MHAIA and the Mexican Avocado Producers & Packers (APEAM A.C.) have combined resources to fund and manage AFM, with the intent to provide a focused, highly effective and efficient marketing program in the United States. AFM is headquartered in Dallas. Visit www.echalechallenge.com.  

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GraceKennedy USA LLC Takes Control Of Its Own Route To Market Distribution In The United States

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GraceKennedy USA LLC Takes Control Of Its Own Route To Market Distribution In The United States 


KINGSTON, Jamaica, Jan. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The GraceKennedy Group, after acquiring the operating assets and business of U.S. based food company LaFe in July 2014, will now directly manage its own distribution in the Metro NYC, Atlanta and Florida markets effective January 28, 2015 through the newly formed subsidiary GraceKennedy USA LLC – DBA LaFe.

At the time of acquisition, GK Group CEO Don Wehby said the move was very strategic as it provides GraceKennedy with access to the Hispanic market – one of the fastest-growing segments in food and beverage – and gives Grace Foods the ability to own its own route to market in the U.S.  With operations in Moonachie, New Jersey; Miami, Florida; and Raleigh, North Carolina; and brand and distribution presence in the New York City/Tri-state area, Florida, Georgia and the East Coast—LaFe presents a strong platform for growth.

Since July 2014, the GraceKennedy team has been focused on the distribution aspect of the business, previously handled by Iberia Foods.  “Iberia has done a great job. We are thankful to them for that partnership and we wish them all the very best,” said Group CEO, Don Wehby. “However, we have a mission at GraceKennedy of becoming a Global Consumer Group, and controlling our own route to market will give us a significant advantage in being able to do this.

President of GraceKennedy USA LLC and GK Foods Divisional Head, Michael Ranglin noted that the integration process since July of last year has been very positive. “We have managed to integrate the Caribbean and Latin cultures seamlessly, and business has been going very well,” he said. “Distribution is a new phase we’re entering and we are ready to deliver on the great customer service for which GraceKennedy has come to be known in the U.S. and globally.”

Mr Ranglin noted that the company’s sales representatives will be out in the field in the next couple of months, interacting with customers. According to Mr Wehby, “We believe that we are the best people to sell our products. We are passionate about them, and about our customers, and that is a great source of motivation as we move forward.”

Grace Foods’ presence in the US market began over 20 years ago, starting with members of the diaspora who wanted to enjoy the company’s products when they emigrated to the U.S. The company now offers a myriad of products, enjoyed by the American consumer (both diaspora and mainstream). Grace products are available in National and Regional chains across the US such as Walmart, Publix, Stop & Shop, Giant, Shoppers and ShopRite as well as many independent grocers such as Western Beef, Key Foods and Associated.

Grace Foods USA has set up a toll free line for customer queries at 1-844-4GKLAFE (1-844-445-5233) to provide a smooth transition. They have also advised that interested parties can call them on weekdays between the hours of 9 am and 4:30 pm, or please send an email to [email protected].


Alma Once Again Named Ad Age’s Multicultural Agency Of The Year

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Alma Once Again Named Ad Age’s Multicultural Agency Of The Year

U.S. Hispanic Agency receives top industry honors for second consecutive year.


MIAMI, Jan. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Alma has been named 2015 Multicultural Agency of the Year as part of Advertising Age’s Agency A-List honors for the nation’s best advertising and marketing firms. For the second year in a row, the Miami-based shop takes the multicultural title by combining technology with a total market approach to multicultural targets.

“The Advertising Age A-List represents the industry’s most innovative and successful ad agencies, the shops that are moving the industry forward,” said Matt Quinn, executive editor of Advertising Age.

In 2014, Alma boosted its interactive profile with the help of The Social Media Lab (a proprietary tool that helps identify and analyze Hispanic conversations online). Overall, efforts generated an increase of 28 percent in digital revenue for the year.

“We aim to find the ideal balance between creativity and technology for our clients,” said Isaac Mizrahi, SVP Managing Director at Alma. “For the first time 100% of our existing clients activated at least one form of digital capability.”

Additionally, Alma’s TV work – including McDonald’s “First Customer” and State Farm’s “#Worryfree Celebrations” – was among the most recognized campaigns of the year. “Our original vision 20 years ago was to shatter stereotypes and elevate the image of Hispanics in the U.S.” says Luis Miguel Messianu, President and Chief Creative Officer at Alma. “We’re very lucky to have great clients that trust in our vision and give us the space to do what we love.”

While strengthening relationships with existing clients, the agency also renewed a General and Hispanic Market contract with Tobacco Free Florida and added new partnerships with Anheuser-Busch, Optimum Cable, and Square, among others.

“The real soul of Alma is our people,” says Messianu. “We couldn’t do any of this without the talent and dedication our team puts forth day in and day out.” The Coconut Grove agency is comprised of 120+ employees representing 31 different nationalities – a fact that clearly contributes to its success in the multicultural market.

To keep up with the agency’s work, visit AlmaAgency.com. You can also follow on Twitter @AlmaAgency and enjoy Alma’s brand page on Facebook.

About Alma 
Founded in 1994, Alma today is the 7th largest Hispanic Agency based on Ad Age’s Hispanic Fact Pack and the 2014 & 2015 Ad Age Agency A-List Multicultural Agency of the Year. In 2013, Luis Miguel Messianu was named Diversity Trendsetter at the AAF Diversity Achievement Awards. Alma’s clients include McDonald’s, State Farm, Clorox, Quaker, and Goodyear, among others.

About the Advertising Age Agency A-List
The Advertising Age Agency A-List has been celebrating the best agencies in the advertising and marketing business since the mid-1970s. Ad Age editors make their selections based on elements including creativity, financial performance, innovation and the ability to build clients’ businesses. The franchise expanded in recent years to honor a broader range of shops and reflect changes in the marketing and media business.

Media Contact: Tatiana Bengochea
Phone: 305-662-3151
[email protected]

 

Advertising Age's 2015 Multicultural Agency of the Year

 

ALMA

 

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFOYwz-1TeE
Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150126/171189
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150126/171190LOGO


Shopping For Super Bowl XLIX Tickets On The Resale Market? NFL And Ticketmaster Encourage Fans To Buy From NFL Ticket Exchange

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Shopping For Super Bowl XLIX Tickets On The Resale Market? NFL And Ticketmaster Encourage Fans To Buy From NFL Ticket Exchange

– NFL Ticket Exchange by Ticketmaster Offers Fans the Only Resale Marketplace to Buy Authenticated Super Bowl XLIX Tickets, Online and Onsite in Arizona –


NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES, Jan. 23, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The National Football League (NFL) and Ticketmaster, a Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. company (NYSE:LYV), are taking NFL Ticket Exchange to Arizona for Super Bowl XLIX. Powered by Ticketmaster, the Official Ticket Exchange of the NFL provides fans the ability to purchase tickets for Super Bowl XLIX through a convenient and secure, League-approved marketplace.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150123/170931LOGO

NFL Ticket Exchange is the only ticket resale marketplace with the ability to validate Super Bowl XLIX tickets, ensuring that every Super Bowl ticket sold on NFL Ticket Exchange is authentic. Fans can access NFL Ticket Exchange online at NFLTicketExchange.com or by calling (888) 635-5944.

Beginning Jan. 24, the NFL and Ticketmaster will provide fans the added convenience and security of two authorized NFL Ticket Exchange retail locations in Arizona. Walk-up retail locations for NFL Ticket Exchange will be open at the NFL Shop at Super Bowl presented by Visa, at the NFL Experience (Phoenix Convention Center, North Building) starting Jan. 24; and the Renaissance Hotel (50 E. Adams) starting Jan. 26. On game day, fans will be able to pick up their Super Bowl XLIX tickets up until kickoff at the NFL Ticket Exchange location at the University of Phoenix Stadium lot, near Gate E.

During the week leading up to Super Bowl XLIX, NFL Ticket Exchange will be conducting a number of onsite consumer events and promotions. These events are highlighted by a Big Game Chalk Talk with Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback and broadcaster Troy Aikman. Details of these events include:

  • Big Game Chalk Talk with Troy Aikman – On Thursday, Jan. 29 at 2pm MT at the NFL Ticket Exchange location at the NFL Shop at Super Bowl, at the NFL Experience, fans will have an opportunity to listen as NFL icon Troy Aikman breaks down Super Bowl XLIX. By sharing the fun via social media, a lucky few may enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet Mr. Aikman.
  • At the NFL Ticket Exchange locations at the Renaissance Hotel and the NFL Shop at Super Bowl, at the NFL Experience, fans can take part in daily “Spin 2 Win” promotions for the chance to win instant prizes, including Super Bowl XLIX branded pins, key chains, sunglasses, NFL Ticket Exchange bracelets, Ticketmaster Gift Cards and more. Fans can also enter for the chance to win one of two pairs of tickets to Super Bowl XLIX.

Super Bowl XLIX between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks is scheduled to take place on February 1, 2015, at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.

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.

 


Rush Announce R40 LIVE 40th Anniversary Tour

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Rush Announce R40 LIVE 40th Anniversary Tour

– Rush to Visit 34 Cities Throughout North America in 2015 –

 – Tickets On Sale in Select Markets Beginning Jan. 30 at LiveNation.com –


LOS ANGELES, Jan. 22, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Celebrating 40 years, Rush and Live Nation confirmed today that the RUSH: R40 LIVE TOUR will visit 34 cities throughout North America this summer beginning May 8 in Tulsa, Okla. and finishing Aug. 1 in Los Angeles, Calif. These not-to-be-missed concerts will highlight four decades of the band’s music. Tickets for the RUSH: R40 LIVE TOUR will go on sale starting Jan. 30 in select markets at Ticketmaster.com and LiveNation.com (complete itinerary follows).

RUSH ANNOUNCES R40 LIVE TOUR - 40TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150122/170718

Over the course of their amazing career, Rush has lived a lifetime together, providing an influential soundtrack to many of their fans’ lives. Some have been with them since the start, while others have discovered them along the way and delved into their incredible body of work. To quote Dave Grohl from their momentous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, “Rush built their following the right way. No hype, no bullshit, they did it from the ground up. Their legacy is incredible and their influence undeniable.”

After 40 years together and 20 gold and platinum studio albums, Rush is ready to celebrate with the most loyal fans in the world by embarking on their 21st tour, one that will most likely be their last major tour of this magnitude. Celebrate four decades of music with three incredible musicians—all in one night.

Rush’s vast catalogue includes such classics as 1974’s self-titled debut, 1976’s 2112, 1981’s Moving Pictures, 1996’s Test For Echo and 2002’s Vapor Trails. Rush released their 20th studio album Clockwork Angels in 2012, via Anthem/Roadrunner Records. The critically acclaimed collection marked their first studio recording since 2007’s Snakes & Arrows, and debuted at #1 in Canada and #2 on the Billboard 200, matching the highest chart debut of the band’s career. Known for their energetic live shows, the most recent Rush release was the R40 collector’s boxset, including live footage spanning all four decades of the trio’s career, with over two hours of unreleased material and a rare performance of the seven-part version of “2112,” packaged in an impressive 52-page hardcover book.

Their longevity has served a pop culture renaissance, with the band’s rare television appearance—their first in over 30 years—on Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report, tributes on South Park and a memorable cameo in the film I Love You, Man.

A live review from their most recent Clockwork Angels tour boasted: “the power-trio interplay could put guys half their age in the burn ward.” The Globe & Mail declared Rush as “one of the few bands anywhere that just keeps getting better.” A career-chronicling Rolling Stone feature summed up the renowned rock trio’s continuing artistic vitality by observing, “It’s true that Rush doesn’t mean today what it did in ’76 or even ’96. It may mean more.”

Rush has been recognized with eight Juno Awards and seven Grammy nominations, including one for the acclaimed documentary Rush: Beyond The Lighted Stage that also won the Audience Award at the Tribeca Film Festival. The band members were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994, made Officers of the Order of Canada in 1996 and inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010. They have received a star on both Canada’s Walk of Fame (1999) and the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2010). In 2012, Rush were bestowed with the highest artistic honor in Canada when receiving the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award. To the elation of their fans, Rush were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

Tickets for the RUSH: R40 LIVE TOUR will go on sale starting Jan. 30 in select markets at Ticketmaster.com and LiveNation.com. Citi® card members will have access to pre-sale tickets through Citi’s Private Pass® Program beginning Jan. 27 in select markets. For complete presale details, visit www.citiprivatepass.com.

Exclusive Rush ticket packages are available; please visit http://vipnation.com for package details.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: www.rush.com & www.livenation.com

RUSH: R40 LIVE TOUR NORTH AMERICAN ITINERARY

May 8

Tulsa, OK

BOK Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

May 10

Lincoln, NE 

Pinnacle Bank Arena 

On Sale Soon

May 12

St. Paul, MN 

Xcel Energy Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

May 14

St. Louis, MO 

Scottrade Center 

On Sale Soon

May 16

Austin, TX 

360 Amphitheater 

On Sale Soon

May 18

Dallas, TX 

American Airlines Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

May 20

Houston, TX 

Toyota Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

May 22

New Orleans, LA 

Smoothie King Arena 

On Sale Soon

May 24

Tampa, FL 

Amalie Arena 

On Sale Soon

*May 26

Atlanta, GA 

Verizon Amphitheater 

On Sale Soon

May 28

Greensboro, NC  

Greensboro Coliseum 

On Sale Soon

May 30

Bristow, VA 

Jiffy Lube Live 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

June 8

Columbus, OH 

Nationwide Arena 

On Sale Soon

June 10 

Buffalo, NY 

First Niagara Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

June 12 

Chicago, IL 

United Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

June 14 

Detroit, MI 

The Palace of Auburn Hills 

On Sale Soon

June 17 

Toronto, ON 

Air Canada Centre 

On Sale Fri. Feb. 6

June 21 

Montreal, QC 

Bell Centre 

On Sale Sat. Feb. 7

June 23 

Boston, MA 

TD Garden 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

June 25 

Philadelphia, PA 

Wells Fargo Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

June 27 

Newark, NJ 

Prudential Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

June 29 

New York, NY 

Madison Square Garden 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

July 9 

Kansas City, MO 

Sprint Center 

On Sale Soon

July 11 

Denver, CO 

Pepsi Center 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

July 13 

Salt Lake City, UT 

Maverik Center 

On Sale Soon

July 15 

Calgary, AB 

Scotiabank Saddledome 

On Sale Fri. Feb. 6

July 17 

Vancouver, BC 

Rogers Arena 

On Sale Fri. Feb. 6

July 19 

Seattle, WA 

KeyArena 

On Sale Soon

July 21 

Portland, OR 

MODA Center 

On Sale Soon

July 23 

San Jose, CA 

SAP Center at San Jose 

On Sale Fri. Jan. 30

July 25 

Las Vegas, NV 

MGM Grand Garden Arena 

On Sale Soon

July 27 

Phoenix, AZ 

US Airways Center 

On Sale Soon

July 30 

Irvine Meadows, CA 

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre 

On Sale Soon

August 1 

Los Angeles, CA 

Forum 

On Sale Soon

*Atlanta tickets sold through usual outlets, not a Live Nation event

For Rush VIP packages, fan club memberships and complete tour and ticket information, visit: www.rush.com, www.ticketmaster.com and www.livenation.com.

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.

Follow us @twitter.com/LiveNationInc

 


Prescription Painkillers, Widely Used By Women Of Childbearing Age, Double Risk Of Birth Defects, March Of Dimes And CDC Say

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WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Jan. 22, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — More than one-fourth of privately-insured and one-third of Medicaid-enrolled women of childbearing age filled prescriptions for opioid-based (narcotic) painkillers between 2008 and 2012, according to a new analysis published today by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR).

Experience the interactive Multimedia News Release here: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7401852-march-of-dimes-cdc-opioids/

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150122/170811

Many women are unaware that prescription opioid-based medications such as codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, or morphine, used to treat severe pain, may increase the risk for serious birth defects of the baby's brain, spine, and heart, as well as preterm birth when taken during pregnancy. Use of these medications also can cause babies to
suffer withdrawal symptoms when born, a condition known as neonatal abstinence syndrome or NAS, a growing problem in U.S. birthing hospitals.

Since half of all pregnancies are unplanned, women may be prescribed opioid-based pain medications before they or their health care providers know they are pregnant. "This highlights the importance of promoting safer alternative treatments, when available for women of reproductive age. We must do what we can to protect babies from exposure to opioids," stated Coleen A. Boyle, PhD, MSHyg, Director of CDC's National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD).

"If you are using an opioid pain killer, you should also be practicing effective birth control," says Jose F. Cordero, MD, MPH, a pediatrician, birth defects expert formerly at CDC, and member of the March of Dimes Board of Trustees.
"If you decide to get pregnant or do become pregnant, tell your health care provider about all the medications you are taking right away. You may be able to switch to a safer alternative." Dr. Cordero also urged physicians and other prescribers not to write prescriptions for opioid-based painkillers for their female patients who may become pregnant without a discussion of the risks and safer alternatives.

January is Birth Defects Prevention Month and the CDC and the March of Dimes are taking this opportunity to raise awareness about the risk of birth defects from opioid-based prescription pain medications during pregnancy.

In the U.S., a baby is born with a birth defect every four and a half minutes, and one out of every five deaths in the first year of life is caused by a birth defect. In addition to the human toll, birth defects incur hospital-related economic
costs that exceed $2.6 billion annually.

"The CDC's Treating for Two: Safer Medication Use in Pregnancy initiative offers information to women and their healthcare providers about medication use during pregnancy. This initiative aims to prevent birth defects and improve the health of mothers by working to identify the best alternatives for treatment of common conditions during pregnancy and during the childbearing years," explains Dr. Boyle. More information is available at: http://www.cdc.gov/treatingfortwo

The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. For more than 75 years, moms and babies have benefited from March of Dimes research, education, vaccines, and breakthroughs. Find out how you can help prevent premature birth and birth defects by
joining March for Babies at marchforbabies.org. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org. Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

For more information on this report, visit www.cdc.gov/MMWR

AHAA To Redefine Relevance At Its 2015 Annual Conference Dates

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AHAA To Redefine Relevance At Its 2015 Annual Conference Dates

C-Suite Leaders from iHeartMedia, Kraft, Target among Headliners


FAIRFAX, Va., Jan. 22, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — AHAA: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing announced the theme of its Annual Conference, taking place in Miami from April 27 to 29, 2015: “Redefining Relevance.” With the marketing landscape constantly evolving to keep up with dramatically changing demographics, new strategies are tested, new models of data collection are created, and return on investment (ROI) is scrutinized to ensure proper budgetary allocations. However, the most successful marketing campaigns consistently hit home runs in one area: Relevance. Relevant messaging, creative, and delivery are all necessary to forge meaningful relationships and win brand loyalty of Hispanics, America’s most powerful demographic.

“AHAA recently released a study on Refining Hispanic ROI where we found that relevant messages increase campaign ROI, indicating that it also contributes significantly to company growth overall,” said AHAA Chair Aldo Quevedo, principal/creative director of Richards/Lerma. “If Hispanic relevance can lead directly to a campaign’s greater ROI and gains in market share, then this conference will provide attendees the tools and insights necessary for brands to become more relevant to Hispanic consumers.”

Known for its powerful speakers, previous AHAA annual conferences have included Rupert Murdoch, Chairman and CEO of 21st Century Fox; Sir Martin Sorrell, CEO, WPP; Adam Ostrow, Chief Strategy Officer, Mashable; Jamie Moldafsky, CMO, Wells Fargo; Mark Tutssel, Chief Creative Officer, Leo Burnett Worldwide; Robert Rodriguez, award-winning filmmaker; and James Ortiz, CMO, U.S. Army, among its keynote roster. 2015 is continuing to raise the bar with the following confirmed speakers:

  • Laura Desmond, Global CEO of Starcom
  • Deanie Eisner, CMO of Kraft
  • Rick Gomez, SVP, Marketing, Target
  • Peter Hall, Regional Marketing Director of the Americas, Heineken
  • Jim McNamara, Chairman of Pantelion Films
  • Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia, Inc.

“No other conference is exploring the powerful link between Hispanic relevance and ROI,” said AHAA Conference Chair and Chair-Elect, Linda Lane Gonzalez, president of viva partnership, inc. “We will offer four key education tracks: insights, creativity, engagement and ROI, ensuring that our attendees get a 360 picture of winning strategic approaches.”

Early-bird registration opens on February 2, 2015. For more information, please visit http://ahaa.org and follow all conference chatter on Twitter using the @ahaa handle and hashtag #thinkahaa.

About AHAA:
Founded in 1996, AHAA: The Voice of Hispanic Marketing is the national trade organization of all marketing, communications and media firms with trusted Hispanic expertise.



Introducing Blue Moon® White IPA

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DENVER, Jan. 22, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — After searching through 150 varieties to find the perfect hop for its latest brew, Blue Moon Brewing Company is excited to unveil its own twist on an IPA: Blue Moon White IPA. Ringing in 20 years as a brewery, they’re unveiling Blue Moon White IPA by challenging consumers to go on a search of their own to find the new beer.

Blue Moon White IPA

The beer will debut nationally April 1, but beginning this week, Blue Moon will disclose clues―such as GPS coordinates―on its social sites to secret locations in New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, Austin and Nashville where beer lovers can enjoy an early taste of Blue Moon White IPA. But for a few lucky fans the search doesn’t stop there. The first 20* fans to arrive at the undisclosed locations will receive a map to an intimate future beer dinner with one of Blue Moon’s brewmasters.

“When we decided to brew an IPA we wanted to do something different,” said Keith Villa, founder and head brewmaster of Blue Moon Brewing Company. “We started with wheat, orange peel, and coriander; ingredients that originally inspired Blue Moon Belgian White. Then, we searched hop-after-hop through a lot of varieties until we discovered a rare German hop called Huell Melon, which complements the citrus flavors in the beer. We ultimately wanted to brew a beer that captures the best of both styles: part American IPA and part Belgian-Style White. And since we had so much fun finding ingredients, we thought it would be fun to get our fans in on the search as well.”

The Beer Profile

Appearance – Rich golden color from caramel malts.
Aroma – Tropical hop character with a hint of citrus.
Taste – Hop citrus and orange peel citrus complement the wheat and malts for a uniquely balanced IPA bitterness.
Mouthfeel – Medium bodied.
Finish – Crisp and surprisingly balanced.
ABV – 5.9%        IBUs – 45-47
Four Hop Varieties – Citra®, Cascade, Simcoe, Huell Melon. Huell Melon is a rare hop from Germany with delightful fruity notes, which help complement the citrus notes in the beer.
Food Pairings – Pairs well with bold, flavorful seafood dishes, spicy Mexican food, and strong cheeses such as sharp cheddar and blue.

Blue Moon White IPA will receive full marketing support including digital media via online video across desktop and mobile, display banners on high-profile properties, targeted paid search and social media via owned channels and a partnership with Eater, the dining and nightlife site published by Vox Media, special events and sampling, print via cross-platform programs and public relations. Fans can join in on the fun and share where their beer hunts take them by posting to the Blue Moon Brewing Company Facebook page or by tweeting photos with mention of @BlueMoonBrewCo and #WhiteIPAHunt.

For more information on Blue Moon White IPA, follow @BlueMoonBrewCo on Twitter or go to Facebook.com/BlueMoon. For terms and conditions of Blue Moon Brewing Company’s White IPA Hunt, please visit www.WhiteIPAHunt.com.

*There will be one announced event in each of the following states: California, Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas. For each event in California, Illinois, Tennessee, and Texas, the offer is only available to the first 20 verified consumers at the respective event. There will be five announced events in New York. For each of the five New York events, the offer is only available to the first four verified consumers at the respective event. Offer available to residents of CA/IL/NY/TN/TX, 21+ only. While supplies last. Subject to terms and conditions at www.WhiteIPAHunt.com.Void where prohibited.

About Blue Moon Brewing Company
At Blue Moon Brewing Company, everything we do flows from our artistic approach to brewing. We craft our broad array of beers with flavorful ingredients for an inviting taste, perfect for enjoying the moment with friends. It’s been that way since we added our first flavorful twist back in 1995 in Denver, Colo., and that’s why we say our beer and everything we do is artfully crafted. More information is available at www.BlueMoonBrewingCompany.com.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150122/170711

 


OneSimCard Announces Low Cost Roaming in Cuba and Throughout Latin America

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BOSTON, Jan. 22, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — OneSimCard, a leading global provider of low cost international mobile roaming services for businesses and leisure travelers, announced the availability of low cost voice roaming and text messaging in Cuba and throughout Latin America.

Standard Latin American roaming rates offered by the major domestic telecoms carriers are exorbitantly high and most do not offer any roaming service at all in Cuba.  If roaming service is offered, the typical international roamer in Latin America should expect to pay over $2.50 per minute for both incoming and outgoing voice calls, with some major carriers charging $4.99 per minute.

OneSimCard is therefore proud to announce the availability of low cost roaming in Cuba and throughout Latin America. In Cuba, OneSimCard Plus offers FREE incoming text messaging, incoming mobile calling for $0.65 per minute and outgoing calling for $1.25 per minute.  OneSimCard Plus users also enjoy free incoming calls in many Latin American countries including Argentina, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay.  OneSimCard Plus outgoing call rates in Latin America also offer excellent value with voice calls from many countries costing only $0.49 per minute. OneSimCard Plus has also significantly decreased internet data rates to only $0.85 per MB in many Latin American countries. These OneSimCard rates represent huge savings on the cost of roaming in Latin America.

OneSimCard works worldwide in unlocked GSM devices and phones. The user simply replaces their domestic carriers’ SIM card with OneSimCard when traveling internationally. All users can replace their own SIM cards in just a few seconds. OneSimCard provides international roaming services  in over 200 countries and offers free incoming calls in more than 145 countries. OneSimCard is a pre-paid service which does not require any contract and has no connection fees, subscription fees or monthly maintenance fees.

About OneSimCard 
OneSimCard (onesimcard.com), a division of Belmont Telecom, Inc., is a leading provider of mobile service for international travelers offering low-cost voice, text and data service worldwide. OneSimCard saves travelers 85% on international roaming charges compared to their regular domestic mobile carrier and has been widely acclaimed by mobile industry and travel experts, including those from The New York Times, Washington Post, Boston Globe and PC Magazine.

www.onesimcard.com


Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) Miami Chapter Announces 2015 Board Of Directors

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Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) Miami Chapter Announces 2015 Board Of Directors


MIAMI, Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) Miami chapter proudly announced today its newest members for the 2015 board of directors. Comprised of a diverse group of senior communications professionals from various sectors of the industry, the new board looks to not only continue growing the chapter, but also to expand professional development opportunities for the region’s ever-evolving population of PR executives.

“We have an incredibly talented group of executives on our board this year that reflect the diverse nature of the PR industry in Miami,” said Sonia Diaz, HPRA Miami president, national HPRA board member. “In addition to offering networking events and professional development workshops with top notch PR and media experts, we are also hoping to grow our student membership and strengthen our relationship with local universities.”

The HPRA Miami 2015 Board includes: President, Sonia Diaz, Communications Manager, Balsera Communications; President-elect, Jackie Cardozo, Client Services Manager, Business Wire; Treasurer, Margarita Hernandez, Executive Account Director, PR Newswire; and Secretary, Ana L. Ruedaquintero, Marketing Manager, Vme Media.

The 2015 Board of Directors includes: Carla Santiago, Managing Supervisor, Fleishman Hillard Miami; Lauren Cortiñas, Managing Director, Pinta; Gorki de los Santos, Senior Manager Public Affairs & Communications, Coca-Cola; Julie Jimenez, Account Director, rbb Public Relations, Joseph Ramirez, Managing Director, Burson Marsteller Miami, Bill Gato, CEO, Hispanicize Wire, Lisa Zayas, Senior Communications Consultant; Alex Rodriguez, Digital Communications Specialist.

Daisy Cabrera will serve as founding President and immediate past President of the chapter.

To join, individual HPRA membership is $125, $30 for students and corporate members receive a 15% discount on a minimum of five (5) individual memberships. 

HPRA Miami will offer its members an interesting and informative variety of opportunities:

“Meet the Media” sessions with U.S. Hispanic and Latin America media discussing relationship-building strategies, news trends, the importance of culturally-relevant information, etc.

Professional development seminars hosted by communications industry experts and forward-thinking thought leaders sharing case studies, best practices, insights, research, career advice, etc.

Panel discussions with leading social media influencers focused on the powerful Latino blogosphere, creating meaningful online interactions, etc.

Exclusive networking opportunities with industry peers, discounts to conferences, discounts or free entry to HPRA sponsored events, and leadership roles on committees (i.e. Membership, Programming, etc.)

HPRA continues expanding with established chapters in Los Angeles, New York, Washington, D.C. and Chicago. To learn about HPRA and become a member, visit http://www.hpra-usa.org, find HPRA on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/HPRA-USA/10698327804 and follow HPRA on Twitter @HPRAusa

To learn more about HPRA Miami, join the online conversation on LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/groups/HPRA-Miami-5089647/about or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HPRAMiami 

About the Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA)

Established in 1984, the Hispanic Public Relations Association (HPRA) is the foremost organization of Hispanic public relations practitioners in the U.S. HPRA is a resource for communications professionals and for individuals seeking Hispanic market expertise. It is dedicated to the recognition and advancement of Hispanics in public relations through year-round programs, professional development seminars and networking. HPRA hosts one of the most anticipated annual events and industry awards: the HPRA Bravo Awards, recognizing the most outstanding campaigns in the marketplace. The National organization aims to meets the needs of the growing number of Hispanic PR practitioners, independents and agencies throughout the U.S. HPRA National, its Chapters and those Chapters in formation are paving the way for the next phase of growth and evolution in the PR industry, especially in the Hispanic market space. For more information please visit www.hpra-usa.org.


Boxing Legend Oscar De La Hoya Announces New Combat Sports, Travel And Lifestyle Network

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Boxing Legend Oscar De La Hoya Announces New Combat Sports, Travel And Lifestyle Network


De La Hoya TV will capitalize on huge boxing and MMA fan base among U.S. Hispanics, taking them inside the lives of their heroes


MIAMI, Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Olympic gold medalist, 10-time world champion in six weight divisions and leading boxing promoter Oscar De La Hoya will launch a new Spanish-language sports, travel and lifestyle cable television channel called De La Hoya TV, the “Golden Boy” announced today at the National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE) annual conference in Miami.

Offering news, analysis and original programming surrounding combat sports including boxing and MMA, the multi-platform network will feature entertainment, travel, lifestyle and news on international sports, giving fans another level of access to the champions of the sports that they love.

“De La Hoya TV will be the premiere authority on boxing and other combat sports, providing fans with a behind-the-scenes look into the world and lifestyles of their favorite athletes,” said De La Hoya, chairman of De La Hoya TV. “The network aims to inspire all to live the life of a champion, delivering exceptional insight into the athletes and featuring entertainment, global destinations, news and more.”

Building on boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya’s brand, De La Hoya TV will launch with Spanish-language content and focus on engaging the U.S. Hispanic market.

Latino audiences, which now total more than 50 million in the U.S., have long fueled the popularity of combat sports, and De La Hoya TV will provide the Hispanic market with an experience that they’ve longed for. Among U.S. Hispanic audiences, boxing is the second most-popular sport after soccer, and recent data suggests that more than 50 percent of the Mixed Martial Arts’ fan base is Hispanic.

The multiplatform network will launch in the spring of 2015 and be available for cable and satellite distribution. Initially launching in Spanish, the network will in the future provide English content, offering today’s modern consumers with multiple options to engage with network programming.

De La Hoya TV is a partnership between Oscar De La Hoya, businessman and international boxing promoter José Alberto “Pepe” Gómez, and media executive and Fashion TV Latin America partner Victor Hugo Montero.

Gomez is a successful business owner and major promoter of Mexican and international boxing. Gomez operates several media companies in Mexico, including a popular newspaper and radio station.

Montero is an experienced television and cable executive, having launched Venezuela’s first cable channel, Sun Channel Tourism Television, which is currently available throughout Latin America. More recently Montero helped re-launched Fashion TV Latin America, an international cable channel.

“In my decades of working in television, I’ve seen few opportunities to connect with an untapped market with such an exponential opportunity for growth. For over a year we have worked on this project and are focused on expanding content from Spanish to include English and make it available to a larger audience, all to serve the consumer’s appetite,” said Victor Hugo Montero, CEO and general manager of De La Hoya TV.

“The popularity of combat sports continues to grow throughout the United States, Latin America and the globe, and now fans will finally have a unique resource to get news and analysis through De La Hoya TV,” said José Alberto “Pepe” Gómez, executive chairman of De La Hoya TV.

De La Hoya TV’s unique content, which will complement existing boxing programming on the established networks, like HBO, SHOWTIME, FOX, and Televisa will help continue to fuel the growth of the sport and the intensity of the fans.

Original production for De La Hoya TV will begin in early 2015, with details on programming schedules to be announced soon. The network is based in Miami, Florida.

ABOUT DE LA HOYA TV
De La Hoya TV is a new multi-platform sports, lifestyle and travel network serving as the authority of boxing and combat sports. Focused on their slogan, Beyond Boxing, the new Spanish-language channel will feature entertainment, tourism, lifestyle, news and international sports, engaging the audience on an exciting adrenaline filled journey with behind the scenes access to the life of their favorite athletes. For more information, visit www.delahoyatv.com and follow De La Hoya TV on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

 


L.A. Bus Shelters Minus Booze Ads Equals Public Health Victory Over Big Alcohol

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L.A. Bus Shelters Minus Booze Ads Equals Public Health Victory Over Big Alcohol

Los Angeles City Council Vote Bans Alcohol Ads From Public Property


LOS ANGELES, Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Alcohol Justice joined with Los Angeles-based coalition – NoAlcoholAds.org – to thank members of the Los Angeles City Council for passing an ordinance long-sought by public health advocates to ban alcohol ads from L.A. city-owned and controlled property. The measure will reduce alcohol advertising in public spaces commonly seen by youth as a way to help discourage underage drinking. The ordinance, co-authored by Councilmembers Paul Koretz and Jose Huizar, was passed by unanimous vote of the 12 councilmembers present yesterday.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150120/170328
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110727/DC41105LOGO

“The City of Los Angeles has taken another step towards truly protecting its most vulnerable residents,” stated Jorge Castillo, Advocacy Director for Alcohol Justice. “We thank Councilmembers Huizar, Englander, and Koretz for their leadership on this critical public health and safety issue.”

According to L.A. County Department of Public Health, alcohol-related crashes, violent crimes and deaths cost the county more than $10.8 billion every year. Families and youth utilize city owned and controlled property on a daily basis, such as school buildings, recreation centers, libraries and bus shelters.

“This is in line with my administration’s focus on improving the quality of life for all Angelenos and helping boost the sense of pride people have in our neighborhoods,” said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Dennis Hathaway, president of the Ban Billboard Blight coalition said, “We applaud the City Council for recognizing that the public right-of-way should not be used to help market products that cause harm to our youth and burden taxpayers with millions in costs for law enforcement, medical, and other services related to alcohol abuse.”

The L.A. County Department of Public Health had recommended reducing alcohol advertising in public spaces and in areas commonly seen by minors as a way to help discourage underage drinking. Over the past few years UCLA, Rand Corp., Center on Alcohol Marketing and Youth, Dr. Jonathan Fielding, Alcohol Justice, and the L.A. Department of Public Health submitted clear and compelling evidence that alcohol advertising on city owned property encourages youth alcohol consumption, which leads to harm.

“This ordinance says YES, we can do our part to limit underage consumption of alcohol and the problems associated with alcohol use,” stated Councilmember Koretz, co-author of the measure. “I want to thank everyone involved…but first and foremost, I thank the people of the communities of Los Angeles for speaking up so caringly and powerfully, as is clear from the sterling efforts of the Coalition to Ban Alcohol Ads on Public Property in Los Angeles and Alcohol Justice.”

“As a City, we must be conscientious of exposing our children to images which encourage irresponsible behavior,” said Councilmember Mitchell Englander. “By banning alcohol advertisements on City property on future City contracts, we have taken an essential step in making the City of Los Angeles safer for our children and families.”

In the summer of 2011, NoAlcoholAds.org, along with former Councilmember Alarcon, were able to influence a bus bench contract that effectively banned alcohol ads from 6,000 bus benches in L.A. Immediately after that victory they set a new goal to remove alcohol ads from all parts of the transit system.

“Communities benefit from healthy and positive messages and I’m proud of the City of Los Angeles for making the commitment to protect our families from alcohol advertisements,” stated Carol Lee, Community Organizer, Koreatown and Community Center. “The City is paving the way for a healthier city, one which encourages healthy lifestyles and extracurricular activities for children.”

“Alcohol ads on city property send the wrong message to our youth, especially children in low-income and working-class communities where these type of ads are more prevalent,” said Councilmember Huizar, one of the original signers of the motion. “This is truly a community victory and I congratulate and thank all the groups and individuals who fought to make this a reality.”

“Money should never be part of this discussion,” stated Kitty Dukakis, former First Lady of Massachusetts, a strong supporter of the campaign. “It is very dangerous. Young people that see those signs suffer great harm in their lives from the use of alcohol.”

“Today L.A. joins the Bay Area, San Diego, San Jose and many other transit districts in getting alcohol ads off bus shelters and other public property to help reduce alcohol-related harm,” stated Bruce Lee Livingston, Executive Director/CEO of Alcohol Justice. “Now we can say that all California’s public transit systems will finally be free from Big Alcohol’s harmful messages.”

Coalition Members include:

  • American Indian Movement – WEST
  • Alcohol Justice
  • Asian American Drug Abuse Program Inc.
  • Boyle Heights Stakeholders Association
  • Boyle Heights Coalition for a Safe & Drug Free Community
  • California Hispanic Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse
  • Coalition to Ban Billboard Blight
  • Community Coalition
  • Institute for Public Strategies
  • Koreatown Youth & Community Center
  • Mexican History Foundation
  • Mothers of East L.A. (MELA)
  • Personal Involvement Center, Inc.
  • P3 Partnership for a Positive Pomona
  • Phoenix House
  • Pillar of Fire Church
  • Paso por Paso
  • Pueblo y Salud
  • Saving Lives Drug and Alcohol Coalition
  • Sycamore Grove School
  • Tarzana Treatment Centers & AWARE Coalition
  • The Wall – Las Memorias Project
  • United Coalition East Prevention Project
  • Woman’s Christian Temperance Union
  • Women Against Gun Violence
  • Writers In Treatment

Supporters include

  • Michael & Kitty Dukakis, former Massachusetts Governor & First Lady
  • Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council
  • California Council on Alcohol Problems
  • California Alliance for Retired Americans
  • Center for Living and Learning
  • County Alcohol and Drug Program Administrators’ Association of California
  • Crescenta Valley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition
  • Cri-Help
  • Day One Pasadena
  • Dr. J. Benjamin Hardwick
  • Monsignor John Moretta
  • NCADD East San Gabriel & Pomona Valleys
  • Public Citizen
  • Resurrection Church Neighborhood Watch – Los Angeles
  • San Fernando Valley Partnership
  • Venice Neighborhood Council

For More Information go to: www.AlcoholJustice.org and www.NoAlcoholAds.org

CONTACT:  Michael Scippa 415-548-0492
Jorge Castillo 213-840-3336 

Alcohol Justice logo.

 

 


New Report Offers Latest Research, Strategies for Improving Achievement of Young Hispanic Language Learners

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New Report Offers Latest Research, Strategies for Improving Achievement of Young Hispanic Language Learners

Strategies for dual language learners must begin in preschool/primary grades


PRINCETON, N.J., Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In the drive for expanded access to high-quality early education programs, stakeholders need to understand and address the unique learning needs of young Hispanic dual language learners (DLLs), according to a new report from Educational Testing Service (ETS). The report examines the emerging research base on strategies for supporting the learning and development of DLLs in preschool and the early primary grades.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120110/DC33419LOGO

Enhancing Young Hispanic Dual Language Learners’ Achievement: Exploring Strategies and Addressing Challenges, was written by Debra J. Ackerman of ETS’s Early Childhood Research & Assessment Center and Zoila Tazi of Mercy College. It is the third in a series of early childhood education policy reports that explores issues related to improving instruction in programs serving preschool-aged children.

“Since the federal government increasingly focused on ensuring that all children enter school ready to learn, it is important to make sure that early education stakeholders understand the unique learning needs of young Hispanic DLLs,” said Michael T. Nettles, Senior Vice President of ETS’ Policy Evaluation and Research Center.  “Ackerman and Tazi’s report addresses this issue by focusing on key factors contributing to young Hispanic DLLs’ academically at-risk status, as well as the practical, on-the-ground implementation challenges to be addressed if early education programs are to incorporate strategies that show promise for addressing these factors.”

According to Ackerman and Tazi, this issue is particularly important given the key role English oral language skills play in the development of DLL’s emerging literacy skills in English and their overall academic achievement. This especially can be the case if children’s capacity to benefit from classroom instruction and interact with teachers and fellow students is dependent on their English language proficiency.

To help explain the importance of this issue, the report focuses on:

  • Key contributors to young Hispanic DLLs’ academically at-risk status
  • Legislation, position statements, and early learning standards for DLLs
  • Promising classroom instructional strategies and further research needed
  • On-the-ground implementation challenges
  • Informing teachers’ practice through the assessment of young DLLs

 “Ackerman and Tazi’s report should prove to be very valuable should future federal investments aimed at enhancing school readiness specifically focus on the unique learning needs of young Hispanic DLLs. Given the growing population of young Hispanic DLLs, enhancing this group’s achievement will become increasingly critical if the benefits of increased access to high quality early education are to be realized,” Nettles concludes.

If you wish to order a free copy of Enhancing Young Hispanic Dual Language Learners’ Achievement: Exploring Strategies and Addressing Challenges, please http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ets2.12045/abstract

Digital versions of the first and second reports in the series can be found at:

http://www.ets.org/Media/Research/pdf/PIC-PRE-K.pdf

http://www.ets.org/Media/Research/pdf/PIC-STATE-PRE-K.pdf

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

 


Brittany Maynard’s Family, Compassion & Choices Partner With California Lawmakers on End-of-Life Options Bill

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Brittany Maynard’s Family, Compassion & Choices Partner With California Lawmakers on End-of-Life Options Bill

Senators Bill Monning, Lois Wolk Craft Legislation to Authorize Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Adults in Golden State


SACRAMENTO, Calif., Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Just a few months after 29-year-old Californian Brittany Maynard had to utilize an Oregon law to end her suffering from terminal brain cancer, two California senators today announced they have authored similar legislation in California. Brittany Maynard’s mother and widower, Compassion & Choices, and a diverse array of supporters praised the introduction of the bill, “The End-of-Life Options Act” (SB 128), at a 1:30 p.m. PT news conference at the state Capitol.

Debbie Ziegler, husband Gary Holmes, Debbie's daughter Brittany Maynard

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150121/170547

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150121/170548

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140312/DC81938LOGO-b

“The time is right for California to advance the conversation about end-of-life options,” said Senate Majority Leader Bill Monning, who coauthored the bill with Senator Majority Whip Lois Wolk.  “We are working together to establish a process that honors a  patient’s right to make informed decisions about dying and respects the individual’s beliefs after receiving a terminal prognosis.  We will continue to meet with parties interested in this issue, and are committed to an open and inclusive dialogue as the legislation moves forward.”

Maynard — who suffered debilitating, painful seizures caused by her terminal brain cancer — had to move to Oregon so she could access its death-with-dignity law because California does not authorize this end-of-life option. It gives terminally ill, mentally competent adults the option to request a prescription for aid-in-dying medication that they can choose to take if their suffering becomes unbearable.   

California voters support the medical option of aid in dying by more than a 2-1 margin (64% vs. 24%). Yet, two decades after Oregon voters passed the nation’s first death-with-dignity law in 1994, California still has not authorized this end-of-life option.  

“Support for this law runs across all demographic categories, from every ethnic, religious and economic background,” said Senate Majority Whip Wolk. “It is not a partisan issue.  It is about the most personal freedom there is and guaranteeing terminally ill Californians will have a right to exercise this option if they believe it is right for them.”

In the final weeks of her life, Maynard partnered with Compassion & Choices to launch a campaign on www.TheBrittanyFund.org to make aid in dying an open and accessible medical practice in her home state and throughout the country.

“It is unacceptable that Brittany Maynard had to leave her home, her family, her dogs, her medical team in order to die peacefully, in comfort and in control,” said Rev. Dr. Ignacio Castuera, a board member of Compassion & Choices, which supports the California bill. “The Lord does not want his children to suffer.”

Debbie Ziegler spoke about her mission to keep her only daughter’s legacy alive.

“Brittany fought to the end for expanded availability of end-of-life options in California,” she said. “I will make my daughter, Brittany, proud by standing up and telling her story even if my voice shakes. Even if I choke back tears. I hope that no other Californian has to go through what Brittany did.”

“Having aid in dying as an end-of-life option provided great relief to Brittany,” said Dan Diaz, Brittany’s widower. “It enabled my wife to focus on living her last days to the fullest, rather than having to worry about dying in agony from terminal brain cancer. I promised Brittany I would do everything in my power to fulfill her mission to make this end-of-life option available to all Californians.”

Rapid introduction of the bill mirrors the momentum behind similar legislation around the country.

Since Brittany Maynard’s story broke on Oct. 6, lawmakers have introduced similar bills, or pledged to so, in Washington, D.C. and at least 13 states, including California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Brittany’s story also is galvanizing Compassion & Choices campaigns to pass bills authorizing aid in dying in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Jersey and to defend this legally recognized option in Montana, New Mexico and Vermont.

National and state polls consistently show the vast majority of Americans across the demographic and political spectrum want to maintain their right to choose their medical treatment at the end of their life.

Robert Olvera, M.D., recalled the death of his 25-year-old daughter, Emily Rose, who died last April after four-months of agony caused by a rare form of leukemia.

“As a Catholic and as a father, I never lost hope. But as a physician, I knew what was in store,” said the Santa Ana physician. “My daughter, Emily Rose, was confined to a bed, blind and struggled to breath with excruciating headaches that no medication could alleviate. She suffered horribly as I sat next to her, unable to relieve her pain.”

Jennifer Glass from San Mateo has been living with advanced lung cancer since January 2013.

“We all seek the best quality of life possible, regardless of how much time we have left,” she said. “We expect and demand options across all aspects of life because they influence quality of life. These options must include end-of-life options.”

The California bill is modeled after legislation in Oregon and other states where aid in dying has been proven to be good policy and medical practice.

  • It allows only qualified, terminally ill and mentally competent adults to request and obtain a prescription from their physician for medication that the patient can self-administer to bring about a peaceful and humane death.  Two physicians must confirm the prognosis is terminal.
  • It requires two witnesses to attest that the request is voluntary.  
  • It protects physicians from civil or criminal liability, and from professional disciplinary action, if they fulfill an eligible  individual’s request. Participation by doctors is fully voluntary.
  • It provides safeguards against any coercion of patients: It establishes felony penalties for coercing or forging a request; and it honors a patient’s right to rescind the request.

Besides Oregon, aid in dying is authorized in Washington, Montana, Vermont and New Mexico.

About Compassion & Choices
Compassion & Choices is the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit organization working to improve care and expand choice at the end of life. More information is available at: www.compassionandchoices.org

California Media Contact:
Patricia A. González-Portillo, (323) 819-0310, [email protected]

National Media Contact:
Sean Crowley, (202) 495-8520-c, [email protected]

Dan Diaz and wife Brittany Maynard in 2014

 

Compassion & Choices logo

 


L.A. Bus Shelters Minus Booze Ads Equals Public Health Victory Over Big Alcohol

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L.A. Bus Shelters Minus Booze Ads Equals Public Health Victory Over Big Alcohol

Los Angeles City Council Vote Bans Alcohol Ads From Public Property


LOS ANGELES, Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Alcohol Justice joined with Los Angeles-based coalition – NoAlcoholAds.org – to thank members of the Los Angeles City Council today for passing an ordinance long-sought by public health advocates to ban alcohol ads from L.A. city-owned and controlled property. The measure will reduce alcohol advertising in public spaces commonly seen by youth as a way to help discourage underage drinking. The ordinance, co-authored by Councilmembers Paul Koretz and José Huizar, was passed by unanimous vote of the councilmembers present.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150120/170328

“The City of Los Angeles has taken another step towards truly protecting its most vulnerable residents,” stated Jorge Castillo, Advocacy Director for Alcohol Justice. “We thank Councilmembers Huizar, Englander, and Koretz for their leadership on this critical public health and safety issue.”

According to L.A. County Department of Public Health, alcohol-related crashes, violent crimes and deaths cost the county more than $10.8 billion every year. Families and youth utilize city owned and controlled property on a daily basis, such as school buildings, recreation centers, libraries and bus shelters.

“This is in line with my administration’s focus on improving the quality of life all Angelinos and helping boosting the sense of pride people have in our neighborhoods,” said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Dennis Hathaway, president of the Ban Billboard Blight coalition said, “We applaud the City Council for recognizing that the public right-of-way should not be used to help market products that cause harm to our youth and burden taxpayers with millions in costs for law enforcement, medical, and other services related to alcohol abuse.”

The L.A. County Department of Public Health had recommended reducing alcohol advertising in public spaces and in areas commonly seen by minors as a way to help discourage underage drinking. Over the past few years UCLA, Rand Corp., Center on Alcohol Marketing and Youth, Dr. Jonathan Fielding, Alcohol Justice, and the L.A. Department of Public Health submitted clear and compelling evidence that alcohol advertising on city owned property encourages youth alcohol consumption, which leads to harm.

“This ordinance says YES, we can do our part to limit underage consumption of alcohol and the problems associated with alcohol use,” stated Councilmember Koretz, co-author of the measure. “I want to thank everyone involved…but first and foremost, I thank the people of the communities of Los Angeles for speaking up so caringly and powerfully, as is clear from the sterling efforts of the Coalition to Ban Alcohol Ads on Public Property in Los Angeles and Alcohol Justice.”

“As a City, we must be conscientious of exposing our children to images which encourage irresponsible behavior,” said Councilmember Mitchell Englander. “By banning alcohol advertisements on City property on future City contracts, we have taken an essential step in making the City of Los Angeles safer for our children and families.”

In the summer of 2011, NoAlcoholAds.org, along with former Councilmember Alarcón, were able to influence a bus bench contract that effectively banned alcohol ads from 6,000 bus benches in L.A. Immediately after that victory they set a new goal to remove alcohol ads from all parts of the transit system.

“Communities benefit from healthy and positive messages and I’m proud of the City of Los Angeles for making the commitment to protect our families from alcohol advertisements,” stated Carol Lee, Community Organizer, Koreatown and Community Center. “The City is paving the way for a healthier city, one which encourages healthy lifestyles and extracurricular activities for children.”

“Alcohol ads on city property send the wrong message to our youth, especially children in low-income and working-class communities where these type of ads are more prevalent,” said Councilmember Huizar, one of the original signers of the motion. “This is truly a community victory and I congratulate and thank all the groups and individuals who fought to make this a reality.”

“Money should never be part of this discussion,” stated Kitty Dukakis, former First Lady of Massachusetts, a strong supporter of the campaign. “It is very dangerous. Young people that see those signs suffer great harm in their lives from the use of alcohol.”

“Today L.A. joins the Bay Area, San Diego, San Jose and many other transit districts in getting alcohol ads off bus shelters and other public property to help reduce alcohol-related harm,” stated Bruce Lee Livingston, Executive Director/CEO of Alcohol Justice. “Now we can say that all California’s public transit systems will finally be free from Big Alcohol’s harmful messages.”

Coalition Members include:

  • American Indian Movement – WEST
  • Alcohol Justice
  • Asian American Drug Abuse Program Inc.
  • Boyle Heights Stakeholders Association
  • Boyle Heights Coalition for a Safe & Drug Free Community
  • California Hispanic Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse
  • Coalition to Ban Billboard Blight
  • Community Coalition
  • Institute for Public Strategies
  • Koreatown Youth & Community Center
  • Mexican History Foundation
  • Mothers of East L.A. (MELA)
  • Personal Involvement Center, Inc.
  • P3 Partnership for a Positive Pomona
  • Phoenix House
  • Pillar of Fire Church
  • Paso por Paso
  • Pueblo y Salud
  • Saving Lives Drug and Alcohol Coalition
  • Sycamore Grove School
  • Tarzana Treatment Centers & AWARE Coalition
  • The Wall – Las Memorias Project
  • United Coalition East Prevention Project
  • Woman’s Christian Temperance Union
  • Women Against Gun Violence
  • Writers In Treatment

Supporters include

  • Michael & Kitty Dukakis, former Massachusetts Governor & First Lady
  • Boyle Heights Neighborhood Council
  • California Council on Alcohol Problems
  • California Alliance for Retired Americans
  • Center for Living and Learning
  • County Alcohol and Drug Program Administrators’ Association of California
  • Crescenta Valley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition
  • Cri-Help
  • Day One Pasadena
  • Dr. J. Benjamin Hardwick
  • Monsignor John Moretta
  • NCADD East San Gabriel & Pomona Valleys
  • Public Citizen
  • Resurrection Church Neighborhood Watch – Los Angeles
  • San Fernando Valley Partnership
  • Venice Neighborhood Council

For More Information go to: www.AlcoholJustice.org and www.NoAlcoholAds.org

CONTACT: Michael Scippa 415-548-0492
Jorge Castillo 213-840-3336


Brident Dental & Orthodontics to Open New Office in Brownsville, Texas

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Brident Dental & Orthodontics to Open New Office in Brownsville, Texas

Residents Offered Free Dental Screenings and Giveaways at February 10th Grand Opening Event


BROWNSVILLE, Texas, Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Brident Dental & Orthodontics announced the opening of its newest location in Brownsville, Texas, at 2960 Boca Chica Blvd. which will offer a full-range of dental and orthodontic services. To celebrate, a grand opening event offering free dental screenings and giveaways will take place on February 10th from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  

“Brident Dental’s new location in Brownsville makes oral health care more accessible and convenient by removing traditional obstacles to care,” said Dr. Ahmad Rabata, managing dentist of the new office. “We look forward to making high-quality, oral health care a reality for community residents.”

A ribbon cutting ceremony with the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce will kick off the grand opening festivities at 11:30 a.m. on February 10, 2015. In addition to the free dental screenings, residents can stop in for a tour of the office; as well as refreshments, giveaways and a chance to win one of several raffle prizes.

All of Brident Dental’s services are backed by a unique Quality Assurance Management System (QAMS), which electronically monitors all patient visits, treatments, dental staff and clinical performance to enable high-quality dental care. In addition, Brident Dental accepts most private insurance plans and Medicaid and offers no-interest payment plans.

The new office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, visit www.brident.com or call 1-888-871-8476.

ABOUT BRIDENT DENTAL:
Brident Dental & Orthodontics is an experienced dental service organization, which provides comprehensive business support services to affiliated dental offices owned by licensed dentists, with convenient locations throughout Texas. In addition, we are affiliated with Western Dental, a dental and oral health maintenance organization that provides dental services in over 190 office locations with over 4,000 team members.  Being affiliated with this network of dental offices allows us to benefit from the company’s long-standing emphasis on high standards of quality of care, first class training and professional development.  The Brident Dental offices are led by Dr. Soumava Sen, who brings over 20 years of experience in practicing dentistry, managing dental offices and leading dental professionals in delivering great quality dental care.  For more information, visit www.brident.com.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140818/137079


All-New 2016 Honda Pilot SUV to Make Global Debut at 2015 Chicago Auto Show

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All-New 2016 Honda Pilot SUV to Make Global Debut at 2015 Chicago Auto Show





All-New 2016 Honda Pilot SUV to Make Global Debut at 2015 Chicago Auto Show

– Honda to fortify light-truck leadership on Feb. 12 by debuting all-new Pilot three-row SUV, and revealing the styling direction for future Ridgeline pickup


TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — A completely reengineered and redesigned Honda Pilot SUV will make its world debut at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show on February 12 at 9:30 a.m. The all-new, eight-passenger Pilot SUV – completely designed, developed and manufactured in America — will raise the stakes in the mainstream three-row SUV segment with new technology, advanced safety, class-leading fuel economy and enhanced family utility and versatility.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150121/170411
Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140415/73520

The new Pilot represents a dramatic shift in design, while showcasing new standout technologies, versatility, and dynamics currently unavailable in the mainstream SUV segment. Further, the Pilot remains as family-friendly as ever, proving once again that driving the family truckster can be a joy.

The redesigned Pilot SUV, launching at Honda dealerships nationwide this summer, will further augment a Honda light truck lineup that includes the recently redesigned Honda CR-V – 2014 Motor Trend SUV of the Year and the best-selling SUV in America – and the all-new Honda HR-V crossover, launching this spring. In addition to showcasing the completely redesigned Honda Pilot SUV, the company also will reveal details and styling direction for its forthcoming Ridgeline truck at the Chicago Auto Show.

“Honda continues to fortify its light-truck lineup in 2015, this time turning our eye to the fast-growing family SUV segment,” said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda Division. “The new Pilot will raise the bar in a segment it helped to create, with more innovation, style, premium features and family utility than ever before.”

The original Honda Pilot was introduced in 2002 as the first mainstream eight-passenger SUV to feature car-like unitized body construction, delivering more refined driving dynamics, better fuel economy and superior cabin space in a family-oriented sport-utility vehicle. The second-generation Pilot was launched in 2008. All three generations of the Pilot have been designed and developed by Honda R&D Americas, Inc. in Los Angeles and Ohio. The Pilot and its engine are now produced at the company’s Lincoln, Alabama plant.

The Honda brand’s U.S. light-truck sales were up 10.6% in the fourth quarter of 2014 to 154,480 SUVs, pickups and minivans, including an 8.6% gain for Pilot, to 28,610 units, in the fourth quarter.

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, and CR-Z along with the Pilot, and CR-V sport-utility vehicles and the Odyssey minivan.

Honda has been producing automobiles in America for more than 30 years and currently operates 16 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2014, 98 percent of all Honda brand vehicles sold in U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.


Motley Crue Reveals Date For Final Show

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Motley Crue Reveals Date For Final Show

– Band Announces Details of 2015’s Last Leg of Their “Final Tour”; 34 North American Dates to Mark 34 Years of Motley Crue –

– New Single and Video Clip “All Bad Things” Out Today –


LOS ANGELES, Jan. 20, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Iconic rock band Motley Crue announced today on Fox & Friends the details of their final performance. This will mark the end of their touring career and will conclude their two-year Final Tour cycle at the end of 2015 on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31 at Staples Center in their hometown of Los Angeles where the band’s career began 34 years ago. The band will celebrate this week’s big announcement with a performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Thursday, Jan. 22.

Photo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150120/170143

Motley Crue first announced plans for their two-year Final Tour by signing a Cessation Of Touring Agreement at a press conference in Los Angeles in January 2014, solidifying the end of their Final Tour at the end of 2015.

The 2014 leg of the Final Tour was one of last year’s top grossing tours, selling close to a million tickets across 72 cities and grossing more than $45 million.

“Motley Crue’s Final Tour has been a massive global success and a true testament to the popularity of this legendary rock band,” says Rick Franks, Live Nation’s Regional President of North American Concerts. “New Year’s Eve 2015 will mark the end of an era in rock history but there’s no doubt that Motley Crue’s music will influence generations of artists for years to come.”

After 34 years performing together, the 2015 leg of the Final Tour will see the band play Japan in February, then Australia/New Zealand in the Spring. In June, Motley Crue will say farewell to the European Festival circuit with 3 massive performances at Download (UK), Sweden Rock (Sweden) and Novarock (Austria) Festivals before taking their can’t-miss show back to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico this summer for 34 final North American shows due to tremendous fan demand.

The North American dates will see the band visit cities such as Chicago, New York, Toronto, Atlanta, Mexico City and will be taking place in arenas exclusively to ensure fans in all cities get to experience the full show production of the Final Tour:

“In some of the cities, we could only reach a fraction of the fans who wanted to come see us play last year because of ticket demand so we’re coming back to those places to bring them our full production including the Cruecifly drum coaster, as well as all pyro and every other bell and whistle. Even despite the overwhelming fan demand we can only add so many new cities in North America because of our commitment to take the Final Tour global on our final year,” says Nikki Sixx (bass).

Audiences can also expect a high-energy performance from very special guest Alice Cooper, who joined the band for the Final Tour in 2014.  He will be tearing up the stage for crowds across North America once again. The pairing has been roundly praised as a must-see by fans and media alike.

The band’s exclusive Fan Club pre-sale for these dates starts tomorrow, Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time, with a special Citi card member pre-sale beginning at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time the same day. Local pre-sales start this Thursday, Jan. 22 at 10:00 a.m. local time before the public on-sale begins on Friday, Jan. 23 at 10:00 a.m. local time; some dates (including the band’s Final New Year’s Eve performance) will be going on sale this Saturday, Jan. 24 at 10:00 a.m. local time. See below for a full list of dates. For VIP packages and ticket information, go to www.motley.com.

Following the North American summer shows, the band will take the Final Tour on more international dates this Fall before “all bad things come to an end” for good on New Year’s Eve 2015.

Coinciding with today’s announcement and the theme of the Final Tour, the band also released its new single “All Bad Things” this morning which is available for sale digitally here: http://smarturl.it/MC_AllBadThings. The single is accompanied by a video clip of highlights of Motley Crue’s 34-year career which premiered today on The Tonight Show’s blog – http://fallontonight.tumblr.com/ to preview the band’s national TV appearance on the show this Thursday.

To give back to the fans for their support over the years, Motley Crue will give away their best selling GREATEST HITS album for free in partnership with Google Play for one week only. Download the album through Tuesday, 1/27 here: http://goo.gl/3hg3Qw. The compilation album includes classic hits like “Dr. Feelgood,” “Home Sweet Home,” “Kickstart My Heart,” amongst many more – check out a special message here: http://youtu.be/Fj03fG7ngas.

Motley Crue are also in the process of putting together the ultimate collector’s album package for the fans to be released later this year which will include the new track, “All Bad Things” amongst many other surprises, details of which will be announced in the near future.

Since 2015 is all about celebrating the legacy of Motley Crue, the band and fans from around the world will also be able to share their memories, pictures, thoughts and stories of 34 years of Motley Crue online at www.motley.com using #RipMotleyCrue.

THE FINAL TOUR 2015

All dates, cities and venues below subject to change.

Japan

2/11/15

Kobe, JP

Kobe World

2/12/15

Nagoya, JP

Nagoya Gaishi Hall

2/14/15

Tokyo, JP

Tokyo Super Arena

2/15/15

Tokyo, JP

Tokyo Super Arena

2/17/15

Fukuoka, JP

Fukuoka Kokusai Center

North America

(with Very Special Guest Alice Cooper except dates marked with *)

7/22/15

Eugene, OR

Matthew Knight Arena

7/24/15

Tacoma, WA

Tacoma Dome

7/26/15

Billings, MT

Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark

7/28/15

Boise, ID

Taco Bell Arena

7/29/15

Salt Lake City, UT

EnergySolutions Arena

7/31/15

Denver, CO

Pepsi Center

8/3/15

Winnipeg, MB

MTS Centre

8/5/15

St. Paul, MN

Xcel Energy Center

8/7/15

Milwaukee, WI

BMO Harris Bradley Center

8/8/15

Chicago, IL

Allstate Arena

8/9/15

Detroit, MI

The Palace of Auburn Hills

8/11/15

Hershey, PA

Giant Center

8/12/15

New York, NY

Barclays Center

8/14/15

Philadelphia, PA

Wells Fargo Center

8/15/15

Worcester, MA

DCU Center

8/16/15

Uncasville, CT

Mohegan Sun Arena

8/18/15

Cleveland, OH

Quicken Loans Arena

8/19/15

Cincinnati, OH

U.S. Bank Arena

8/20/15

Indianapolis, IN

Bankers Life Fieldhouse

8/22/15

Toronto, ON

Air Canada Centre

8/23/15

Ottawa, ON

Canadian Tire Centre

8/24/15

Montreal, QC

Bell Centre

8/26/15

Baltimore, MD

Royal Farms Arena

8/28/15

Raleigh, NC

PNC Arena

8/29/15

Charlotte, NC

Time Warner Cable Arena

8/30/15

Atlanta, GA

Philips Arena

* 9/2/15

Miami, FL

American Airlines Arena

9/4/15

New Orleans, LA

Smoothie King Center

* 9/5/15

Houston, TX

Toyota Center

* 9/6/15

San Antonio, TX

Alamodome

9/8/15

Monterrey, NL

Arena Monterrey

9/10/15

Mexico City, DF

Arena Ciudad de Mexico

*12/31/15

Los Angeles, CA

Staples Center

About MOTLEY CRUE

Hailing from Los Angeles, CA, the quartet—Vince Neil (vocals), Mick Mars (guitars), Nikki Sixx (bass) and Tommy Lee (drums)—has commandeered the rock pantheon for over 30 years. In that time, they have accumulated worldwide album sales exceeding 80 million, seven platinum or multi-platinum albums, 22 Top 40 mainstream rock hits, six Top 20 pop singles, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, three Grammy nominations, four New York Times bestsellers (including the band’s biography, THE DIRT) and countless sold out tours across the globe, playing to millions of fans. Motley Crue was the first rock band in history to have completed an epic sold-out Las Vegas residency at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The band continues to remain on the forefront of entertainment reinventing themselves via not only their music but also their mind blowing live shows featuring never seen before elements, such as Tommy Lee’s drum roller coaster. Motley Crue was featured in KIA MOTORS’ award winning 2012 Super Bowl commercial. 

About Alice Cooper

Alice Cooper is a true rock icon, having pioneered the use of theatrics and shocking images onstage in concerts from the earliest days of the original band of the same name.  Since going solo, he has continued to produce elaborate stage shows providing fans with both shock and rock of the highest caliber.  Inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame in 2011, Alice has toured and recorded continuously, with his most recent album being Welcome 2 My Nightmare.  Recorded with longtime collaborator Bob Ezrin, who produced the original ground breaking, multi-platinum Welcome To My Nightmare album in 1975, the album picks up right where they left off, with Alice trapped in his own warped mind.   Alice’s catalog of hits and anthems, including “I’m Eighteen,” “No More Mr Nice Guy,” School’s Out,” “Elected,” “Poison,” and others, are included in his current “Raise The Dead” show, which also features his musical tribute to his fallen friends John Lennon, Keith Moon, Jim Morrison and Jimi Hendrix.  Currently, Alice’s touring band features the three guitar attack of Orianthi, Tommy Henriksen and Ryan Roxie, backed by bassist Chuck Garric and drummer Glen Sobel.   Additionally, “Nights With Alice Cooper,” Alice’s nightly radio show, is available in nearly 100 cities in the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK.  The show features his favorite classic rock songs along with his insider anecdotes about many of the artists.

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.

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American Lung Association “State of Tobacco Control 2015” Report Calls on California to Increase Efforts to Eliminate Tobacco-Caused Death and Disease

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LOS ANGELES, Jan. 21, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Once a national leader in tobacco control efforts, progress is at a standstill in California as advances in statewide tobacco control policies have stagnated. These were the findings of the 13th annual American Lung Association State of Tobacco Control 2015 report released today. Fifty-one years after the 1964 Surgeon General’s report which first sounded the alarm on the dangers of smoking, tobacco use continues to kill almost half a million Americans and causes up to $333 billion in health care costs and lost productivity each year.

The State of Tobacco Control 2015 report tracks yearly progress on key tobacco control policies at the federal and state levels, assigning grades based on whether laws are adequately protecting citizens from the enormous toll tobacco use takes on lives and the economy. This year’s report shows that while California earned a B for its smokefree air policies, the state received an F for its low tobacco taxes, an F for failing to sufficiently fund tobacco prevention and control programs, and a D for poor coverage of smoking cessation and treatment services.

The Lung Association and its partners continue to call for immediate action by all levels of government to achieve three bold goals: reduce smoking rates currently at about 18 percent to less than 10 percent by 2024; protect all Americans from secondhand smoke by 2019 and; ultimately eliminate the death and disease caused by tobacco use.

“The American Lung Association is urging states and the federal government to take needed steps to achieve these bold goals,” says Olivia J. Gertz, President and CEO, American Lung Association in California. “It’s no secret that to reduce tobacco use in the United States, our leaders need to muster the political will to implement proven policies. We cannot afford the health or financial consequences of their continued failure to act.”

In conjunction with the national report, the American Lung Association in California released its State of Tobacco Control 2015 – California Local Grades report, which issues grades for all 482 cities and 58 counties in California on local tobacco control policies. Grades are awarded in three categories: Smokefree Outdoor Air, Smokefree Housing, and Reducing Sales of Tobacco Products. Bonus points are provided in a new category called Emerging Issues. To view the complete California report, visit www.lung.org/california

The California Local Grades report found that numerous municipalities across the state have passed ordinances to protect their communities from the harmful effects of tobacco despite the lack of action at the state level. In 2014, a total of 40 cities and counties adopted new policies to protect residents and improve the health of their communities. In addition, the report shows that local policies prohibiting secondhand smoke in recreational settings now protect 80 percent of California’s total population, more cities and counties are taking steps to implement policies which incorporate electronic cigarettes, and several municipalities have taken steps to restrict pharmacies from selling tobacco products in their communities.

However, while many communities took significant action to improve their tobacco control policies, a total of 324 cities and counties throughout the state – 60 percent of all municipalities – did little to nothing and have received an F for their overall tobacco grade.

Most significantly, California’s weak position on tobacco prevention is due to the fact that the state has not increased its tobacco tax since 1999 and now ranks 33rd in the country at 87 cents per cigarette pack, far behind states like New York, Illinois, Texas, Florida, Oregon and Washington.

“Increasing the tobacco tax has been proven to reduce tobacco use,” says Gertz. “This is why the American Lung Association in California is standing with Save Lives California, a broad coalition dedicated to passing a lifesaving $2 per pack tobacco tax – either through the legislature or by ballot measure – by the end of 2016.  By passing this measure, we will not only save the lives, we also will save California taxpayers billions in health care costs.”

Tobacco-related deaths are the single, most preventable cause of death in California. More than 21,300 kids start smoking each year in the state, and tobacco costs California $18 billion – a tremendous burden that the state cannot afford. 

Save Lives California will generate revenue to expand treatment services for Medi-Cal patients with tobacco-related and other illnesses, support existing statewide programs to prevent youth from using tobacco, stop illegal sales of tobacco, increase funding for medical research into new treatments and cures for deadly diseases such as cancer and lung disease, and restore California’s leadership in tobacco control efforts.

In 2014, the federal government took small steps to protect citizens from the harmful effects of tobacco, but still fell short in important areas such as tobacco taxes and finalizing its regulatory authority over all tobacco products. In April, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed to assert authority over all tobacco products including e-cigarettes, little cigars and other tobacco products.  The American Lung Association also expressed strong opposition to the Obama Administration’s proposal to exempt certain cigars from basic FDA oversight and that it failed to finalize the proposal by the end of 2014.

“We have a lot of work to do to improve California’s tobacco control efforts and protect public health from tobacco-related illnesses,” says Gertz. “I urge everyone to join the American Lung Association in California and Save Lives California and help us tell our leaders to take action now to save lives.”

This year’s report features new methodology to reflect the updated 2014 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Best Practices for Comprehensive Tobacco Control Programs as communities adopt stronger, more health-protective policies to improve public health and eliminate tobacco-caused death and disease. It incorporates also other tobacco product taxes and tobacco cessation coverage under Medicaid expansion into the grades. Due to updates in the methodology, all grades from the State of Tobacco Control 2015 report cannot be directly compared to grades from State of Tobacco Control 2014 or earlier reports.

About the American Lung Association in California
Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is “Fighting For Air” through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the American Lung Association or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.lung.org/california

Media Contact: Maria Bernabe, (o) 310.735.9184, (c) 818.625.1810, [email protected]

ETS Wins Major Contract for OECD’s PISA 2018 Cycle

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ETS Wins Major Contract for OECD’s PISA 2018 Cycle


PRINCETON, N.J., Jan. 20, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has chosen Educational Testing Service (ETS) to manage and develop the 2018 cycle of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA.) PISA results are used by educators and policymakers worldwide to evaluate and improve their educational systems and promote learning. 

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ETS will be responsible for overall project management including survey design, test development, operations and quality control, expansion of the computer platform, as well as data processing, scaling and analysis. The work for the 2018 cycle began in July 2014 and runs through September 2020. ETS will collaborate with, and coordinate the work of, three other core contractors.

“For nearly 70 years, ETS’s mission has been to help advance quality and equity in education for people worldwide by providing research, products, and services to measure knowledge and skills and promote learning,” says Walt MacDonald, President and CEO of ETS. “This latest PISA contract embodies that mission and our selection can be credited to the talented staff that has already done such outstanding work for the OECD in recent years.”

PISA is administered every three years. ETS is currently playing a key role in PISA 2015, which will be administered to nationally representative samples of in-school 15 year olds in over 70 participating countries. As a result of this latest contract, ETS will assume an even larger role for PISA 2018.

“It is an honor and a privilege for ETS to be selected to lead the world’s largest international reading, science and math assessment,” says Irwin Kirsch, director of the Center for Global Assessment at ETS and holder of the Ralph W. Tyler Chair in Large Scale Assessment. “Winning PISA 2018 provides ETS with an opportunity to continue to work with the OECD and participating countries to build on the foundation of innovation that has been a cornerstone of PISA since its inception.  Across the PISA cycles, important innovations have been introduced both in terms of assessment domains and modes of assessment.” 

One of those innovations is evident in PISA 2015, which marks a significant shift away from a primarily paper-and-pencil assessment to one that is being computer-delivered in most participating countries. ETS was selected for this cycle due to the innovative assessment design and proposed psychometric analyses submitted, as well as its proven ability to design and deliver a large-scale computer-based assessment.

For the 2015 cycle, ETS is responsible for building and delivering the computer platform upon which the tests will be delivered as well as a communication portal for sharing project information and coordinating project activities with participating countries and the OECD. In addition, the company developed new cognitive assessments of Scientific Literacy and Collaborative Problem Solving, as well as adapting existing trend items in Reading, Mathematics, Science and Financial Literacy for computer delivery.

“ETS has proposed innovations for the 2018 cycle that would introduce the use of adaptive testing,” Kirsch says. “In addition, they would diminish the distinction between major and minor domains that has been the focus of previous cycles and let us study the use of new adaptations that would make PISA more accessible to students with special needs.”  

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 post-secondary education, as well as 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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