HispanicTips » Press Releases

DIRECTV Mas(TM) Highlights Exclusive Mexican Programming

Tomas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 22:31:55 +0000

"What:

As a continued commitment to the Hispanic community, DIRECTV Más™, DIRECTV's Spanish and English-language programming service, will present its newly exclusive Mexican programming including sports, movies, music, news and educational networks from all over Latin America.

To support the Hispanic community DIRECTV officially launched DIRECTV Más, the U.S. premium bilingual satellite TV service. With over 45 Spanish-language channels available (18 percent more than its competitors) and more than 230 channels in English, in the last two years DIRECTV Más has added 10 channels to its lineup: ESPN Deportes, Discovery Familia, Televisión Dominicana, V-Me, MEGA TV, Azteca América (national feed), Azteca México, Telecentro, Cine Nostalgia and Foot's Cool.

Also, the DIRECTV Más lineup now includes more than seven channels of Mexican programming such as Azteca México, Azteca América, Mexicanal, Once México, México 22, Sur México, Cine Nostalgia, that broadcast top programming from all Mexican territories.

DIRECTV Más recently announced the exclusive incorporation of Azteca México, Cine Nostalgia, Telecentro, and Foot's Cool. Along with other nationwide exclusive channels like MEGA TV, Centroamérica TV and TyC Sports, as well as exclusive channels on satellite such as Latinoamérica TV, and TV Chile, DIRECTV Más now offers a wide variety of exclusive programming.

These additions will strengthen an already robust package, which includes top line channels with the number one shows from all Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, including the Caribbean and Spain, and over 230 English language channels.

When:

DIRECTV Más Highlights New Exclusive Mexican Programming
Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008
6:30 p.m.

Who:

Omar Fierro Vivir Sin Ti / Por Fin el Fin, AZM channel 442
Eduardo Alvarado, Reporter from Mexicanal channel 412
John De Armas, Vice President of World Direct

Where:
Trump International Hotel & Tower
401 North Wabash Avenue
Complimentary Valet Parking
Business Casual Attire

RSVP:

directvevents@directv.com

ABOUT DIRECTV MÁS™

DIRECTV Más™ offers the widest array of Spanish and English-language programming available and the latest satellite technology, all combined to provide viewers with digital-quality picture and sound at competitive prices. The service provides access to more than 45* Spanish-language channels including top programming from Mexico, Central and South America, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Spain. DIRECTV Más™ programming offers sports, movies, music, news and educational networks, and access to more than 230 English-language channels of DIRECTV® programming, featuring the largest selection of pay per view choices and sports programming available.

*Includes English-language broadcast channels with alternate Spanish audio. "

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Coors Brewing Company Honors Encuesta, Inc. with the 2007 Gold Supplier Award

Tomas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 22:25:53 +0000

"Coors Brewing Company recently presented its 2007 Gold Supplier Award to Encuesta, Inc., acknowledging the company's market research expertise in the U.S. Hispanic population. The award, accepted by Martin G. Cerda, President of Encuesta, Inc., is one of 36 granted to suppliers nationwide who exemplify a commitment to service, quality, cost, innovation and minority spend, and who continually demonstrate the passion and integrity required to maintain a valued partnership with Coors. The Gold Suppliers are recognized for providing world-class expertise.
"Encuesta, Inc. is incredibly honored by this recognition of our efforts on their behalf," said Cerda. "It is a privilege to work with a company that is so widely recognized for their proven commitment to supporting the Hispanic community. The experience of serving a growing brand in an otherwise stagnant product category is refreshing."
This further supports Encuesta, Inc.'s goal of delivering reliable solutions to its clients through objective analysis and proven insights. "... His [Cerda's] team has continually demonstrated industry-leading expertise in the design, implementation and evaluation of market research," said J. Moncada, Jr., Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of Bromley Communications, LLC., the largest Hispanic marketplace agency in the U.S. "There is no doubt that the reason Encuesta is successful in demonstrating its marketing research prowess is because Martin exhibits a constant focus on excellence and an unyielding commitment to customer service."
Encuesta, Inc. is committed to diminishing the knowledge gap that exists regarding the U.S. Hispanic community. One way in which the company achieves this is by making findings discovered through their self-funded Hispanic public opinion poll, Americanos Poll(R), available to the public. The intent is to promote thought, dialogue, and understanding of this distinct group and to give a voice to the U.S. Hispanic population. In this way, the company hopes to provide a benefit for industries and sectors that serve Hispanics, as well as the public at large. "We're continually researching and learning about the diverse Hispanic population in order to promote the community's thoughts and convey them to the public and to our clients in a manner that adds strategic value to their business," added Cerda.
About Encuesta, Inc.
Encuesta, Inc. is a leading U.S. Hispanic market research and public opinion polling firm that delivers creative and reliable solutions. Serving the Hispanic community since 1989, Encuesta. Inc. helps those who are interested better understand Latinos and the best ways to reach them through customized quantitative research, objective analysis, and proven insights. Backed by exceptional technical ability and highly experienced in-house resources, Encuesta, Inc. maximizes results by implementing the best of both traditional and emerging research techniques. Additionally, the company is responsible for the Americanos Poll(R), a public opinion poll created in 2005 to help bridge the knowledge gap that exists regarding the U.S. Hispanic community.
Encuesta, Inc. is based in Miami, Florida. For more information, visit www.encuesta.com

Media Contact: Gladys I. Colon
Concept Creations Inc.
305-608-9996
conceptcreations@bellsouth.net

"

State of Latinos in America; University of Denver and Grupo Salinas’ Fundacion Azteca America Present Preliminary Findings of Agenda Latino White Paper - Full Report to Be Issued in Washington D.C. on September 23

Tomas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:37:35 +0000

"One of the key recommendations of a preliminary report on the state of Latinos in the United States is to establish a presidential advisory committee on Latino issues to increase the access of the Latino community to vital educational, health, economic, and civic opportunities.
The University of Denver (DU) and Grupo Salinas' Fundacion Azteca America, the non-profit arm of the Azteca America Network, present today the preliminary findings of a comprehensive study on the state of Latinos in the United States.
The full report, which was produced by DU's Latino Center for Community Engagement and Scholarship (DULCCES), includes detailed policy recommendations for the incoming Administration and Congress and will be presented to members of Congress during a televised forum in Washington, D.C. September 23.
"We're looking forward to presenting the findings and policy recommendations to the camps of both Republican and Democratic candidates, as well as to key members of Congress and other policy makers in September," said Luis J. Echarte, chairman of Azteca America and Fundacion Azteca America. "A stronger Latino community means a stronger nation as a whole. It's time to take the next step from diagnosis to action."
The report, entitled "The State of Latinos 2008: Defining an Agenda for the Future," is the result of exhaustive academic research and consultations with panelists at the State of Latinos event held in Denver on May 30, which included participation by the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute; the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement; the National Council of La Raza; Voto Latino; NDN; the League of United Latin American Citizens; the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials; the Latino Issues Forum; the Southwest Voter Registration Education Project and the Republican National Hispanic Assembly. Audience members also included local Latino community leaders, Senator Ken Salazar, D-Colo. and Colorado Governor Bill Ritter.
DULCCES also held a forum with prominent local community leaders and leading academics to complement the consultation process.
"We are proud of the Latino Center and pleased they are engaged in this important work with Fundacion Azteca America in an attempt to address one of the great issues of the day," said DU Chancellor Robert Coombe.
The report focuses on five issues of importance to the Latino community: education, health care, the economy, immigration and the Latino vote.
Among the general findings are that Latino communities want to be self- sufficient and contribute to the U.S. society. However, Latinos face major challenges in accessing quality education, health care, and economic services. A lack of comprehensive immigration reform widens disparities and limits the future progress of the Latino community and the nation.
The topics covered are of vital importance to the nation as a whole. However, the efforts take on special significance due to the high and growing number of Latinos in U.S public schools, and their overrepresentation of the community in high school dropout rates. Cultural and communication barriers for public services such as health care are very costly to the nation in the short and long term. Although the state of the economy affects citizens across the nation, the predominance of the housing downturn among current economic woes is especially difficult for the Latino community, given its ties to the construction industry.
About DU and DULCCES
The University of Denver ( www.du.edu), the oldest private university in the Rocky Mountain region, enrolls approximately 11,117 students in its undergraduate and graduate programs. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University of Denver as a Research University with high research activity.
About Fundacion Azteca America
Fundacion Azteca America is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for members of the Hispanic community currently in the U.S. Fundacion Azteca America, Fundacion Azteca, Azteca America and TV Azteca are companies of Mexican conglomerate Grupo Salinas. For more information, visit www.fundacionaztecaamerica.org.
About Grupo Salinas
Grupo Salinas ( www.gruposalinas.com) is a group of dynamic, fast-growing and technologically advanced companies focused on creating shareholder value, contributing to building the middle class of the countries where it operates, and improving society through excellence. Created by Mexican entrepreneur Ricardo B. Salinas ( www.ricardosalinas.com), Grupo Salinas operates as a management development and decision forum for the top leaders of member companies TV Azteca ( www.irtvazteca.com), Azteca America ( www.aztecaamerica.com), Grupo Elektra ( www.grupoelektra.com.mx), Banco Azteca ( www.bancoazteca.com.mx), Afore Azteca ( www.aforeazteca.com.mx), Seguros Azteca ( www.segurosazteca.com.mx), and Grupo Iusacell ( www.iusacell.com). Each of the Grupo Salinas companies operates independently with its own management, board of directors and shareholders. Grupo Salinas has no equity holdings. However, member companies share a common vision, values and strategies for achieving rapid growth, superior results and world-class performance.

DU Press Contact:
Dave Brendsel
(303) 871-2775
DBrendse@du.edu

Fundacion Azteca America Contact:
Daniel McCosh
011 52 55 1720 0059
dmccosh@gruposalinas.com
"

2008 Democratic National Convention: Remarks as Prepared for Delivery by Joe Baca, Member of the U.S. House of Representatives, California - MarketWatch

Tomas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:10:04 +0000

"The following is a transcript of a speech, as prepared for delivery, by Joe Baca at the Democratic National Convention on Monday, August 25, 2008:
Scheduled for delivery: August 25, 2008 - 4:00-5:00 pm MT
EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE ON DELIVERY
The Honorable Joe Baca
Democratic National Convention
Monday, August 25, 2008
Remarks as Prepared for Delivery
Growing up the youngest of 15 children in a poor New Mexico household, I never would imagine I would one day have the opportunity to speak at such an historic event! It is truly an honor to be here today.
As a boy, I shined shoes, and later I worked as a laborer on the railroads and as a janitor to help my family survive. The struggles I went through grounded me in my Catholic faith and taught me the value of hard work. As a husband, father and grandfather, my faith and my family are my greatest source of strength and guidance. They have also taught me to never forget who I am.
As chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, I represent the interests of the 49 million Hispanics in the United States and Puerto Rico. The Latino community is growing rapidly in both numbers and influence. Our vote, the Latino vote, will be critical in November's elections. As a Latino, I am here to say our community is proud to support Barack Obama as the next President of the United States of America!
Barack Obama knows our struggles. His modest upbringing as someone born to a single mother and raised with help from his grandparents instilled in him the values of family, faith, hard work and dedication.
He knows we need change, because the last eight years have not been good for us. With the economy in shambles, we cannot afford another term of President Bush's failed policies.
Barack Obama has hands-on, grassroots experience in creating the kind of change we need. He is the only candidate who represents our views on the issues that matter most to us. On the economy, we need a president who will create jobs here in the U.S. and allow people to put food on the table. On education, we need a president who will provide opportunities for all children. On the Iraq war, we need a president who will bring a responsible end to this war, which was started under false pretenses and has crippled our economy and cost us too many precious American lives. On health care, we need a president who knows that no child living in America should be without health insurance. We need a president who agrees that it is morally wrong to have 12 million uninsured children and 45 million uninsured adults living in the United States. And on immigration, we need a president who will fix our nation's broken system with a comprehensive solution that respects not only the letter of the law, but also America's proud history as a nation of immigrants.
So our choice in November is clear. We can vote for four more years of the same disastrous policies that have greatly diminished our hopes and dreams, or we can vote for someone who will fix America's broken health care and immigration systems, and work to end this war and get our economy moving in the right direction.
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus, and Latinos throughout the nation, knows that Senator Barack Obama is the candidate who will deliver the change our nation needs. He is the right person for the job. As president, Barack Obama will be a fighter, not only for the Latino community, but for all Americans.
Si se puede con Barack Obama!
SOURCE 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee "

THE 2008 CONVENTION: Remarks by Miguel del Valle, August 25, 2008

Tomas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:09:13 +0000

"The following is a transcript of a speech, as prepared for delivery, by The Honorable Miguel del Valle at the Democratic National Convention on Monday, August 25, 2008:

The Honorable Miguel del Valle

Democratic National Convention

Monday, August 25, 2008

Remarks as Prepared for Delivery

Four years ago at this convention, millions of Americans were introduced to Barack Obama. But for me and thousands of Chicagoans, we've worked with him for many years.
I first heard of Barack back in 1992. The year 1992 was a little like 2008. Then, as now, we needed to save the country from the misguided policies of a president named Bush. I was working with my old friend, Lou Pardo, a retired machinist, on an effort to register Latino voters in Chicago. One day, we were talking about how we could reach more voters and cover more ground, but we needed more resources. Lou told me we should go see Barack Obama, who was directing a voter-registration drive called Project Vote. So Lou met with Barack and, without missing a beat, Barack Obama helped us out. Barack Obama made sure that the thousands of Latinos in Chicago were registered to vote. He helped empower the Latino community and ensure that we were full participants in our democracy.
Now, he is doing it again. From New York to Los Angeles, Barack Obama is helping to bring Latinos and Americans from all backgrounds into the political process and into the national conversation about our future. Because Barack Obama knows that to turn the page on the failed policies of George W. Bush and John McCain, everyone needs to be included. All voters need to be empowered. All voices need to be heard. And all of us must stand up for the change we need. And make no mistake: Barack Obama will deliver that change!
A few years later, in the middle of his first state senate race, Barack Obama came to see me. He asked me about how he could be an effective legislator, what he needed to do to make sure he delivered for the people he represented.
See, for Barack Obama what mattered wasn't scoring political points, but making a difference in the lives of the hardworking people he saw every day. And that's what Barack did in the state senate. He fought to bring quality, affordable health care to more Illinois residents, and to make sure that prescription drugs were priced fairly.
He led the successful effort to rein in the lobbyists in our state. He worked alongside me to boost minority access to college, and we increased Latino enrollment in all our state's universities and community colleges. He supported my efforts to improve the lives of immigrants and, in the U.S. Senate, worked to provide them a path to citizenship. Barack Obama did all of this with the support of Republicans and Democrats, by not engaging in petty politics, but by making his case carefully and with strong conviction.
Now, I watch Barack's candidacy with immense pride for my former colleague and my friend, and with hope. This is the best opportunity in my lifetime to elect a president, who can unite the country and lead the nation to address the struggles that we all grapple with on a day-to-day basis, from high gas prices to violence in our streets, to finding a good job and a good school for our children. It's the best chance we have to put America on a different course, a course that will restore our faith in what we can do as a people and restore our standing in the world.
Barack Obama will do that. He will deliver the change we need. He did it in our state house, and I know that he will do it when we send Barack Obama to the White House!
Thank you.
SOURCE 2008 Democratic National Convention Committee "

National Food Safety Education Month(R) Launches 2008 Spanish Training Materials

Tomas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 10:25:31 +0000

"WHAT

The free training materials for the upcoming National Food Safety Education Month are now available in Spanish and English. These materials are designed around the 2008 theme, “Take Action to Prevent an Allergic Reaction,” (Tome Medidas para Prevenir las Reacciones Alérgicas) and help operators reinforce the importance of reducing the incidence of food allergy reactions in the establishment by focusing on five weekly themes:

* Know the Common Food Allergens (Conozca las sustancias alergénicas más comunes)

* Communication with the Customer (Cómo comunicarse con los clientes)

* Avoiding Cross-Contact (Cómo evitar el contacto cruzado)

* When Mistakes Happen (Cuando ocurren errores)

* Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction (Los síntomas de las reacciones alérgicas)

WHERE

As part of our continued efforts to align NFSEM with the most current, proper food safety practices, the NFSEM Web site is now a part of ServSafe.com. The free training and promotional materials can be found on the new site – http://www.ServSafe.com/NFSEM

WHO

Industry professionals are encouraged to use these materials to take part in this national awareness campaign. The free weekly training activities and free posters are designed to emphasize the importance of food allergen awareness; and can be used to supplement in-unit food safety training.

About NFSEM

National Food Safety Education Month was created in 1994 to heighten the awareness about the importance of food safety education. Each year a new theme and free training activities and posters are created for the restaurant and foodservice industry to help reinforce proper food safety practices and procedures. Visit www.ServSafe.com/NFSEM today to learn more."

Rosario Dawson, Actress & Activist to speak at the Democratic National Convention Women’s Caucus Tuesday, August 26, 2008 9:45 am – 12:00 pm MT

Tomas — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:24:03 +0000

Read More in English: www.demconvention.com Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish

RNC Launches New Radio Ad: ‘Commitment v. Rhetoric’ - (with audio)

Tomas — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 01:15:31 +0000

"The Republican National Committee (RNC) today announced a new Spanish-language radio advertisement, titled "Commitment v. Rhetoric." As the Democrats prepare for their national convention in Denver, the radio ad will remind voters that Barack Obama has consistently shown a lack of leadership in defending the interests of the Latino community, while John McCain has consistently taken on the difficult issues facing America.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080519/RNCLOGO )

The Spanish-language ad will begin airing on Monday, August 25. It will air statewide in CO, including Denver, Colorado Springs/Pueblo, Aspen, and Fort Collins/Greeley. The ad will also air in Albuquerque and Las Cruces, New Mexico; Las Vegas, Nevada; and El Paso, Texas.

To listen to the RNC's new radio ad, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u63lBz6k6m4.

:60 Radio Advertisement

Title: "Commitment V. Rhetoric"

How do you know someone is a friend?

You know because they stand up and defend you when it is hard.

When Hispanics needed a friend in Congress during the immigration debate... Who stood up? Who spoke out?

John McCain.

Senator McCain worked with Republicans and Democrats alike to form immigration legislation.

And while the bill didn't pass, only McCain demonstrated a real commitment to reforming immigration in a way that honored our laws as well as our immigrants and traditions.

And Barack Obama?

Obama did not stand up. Obama did not speak out. And when the time came for him to do the right thing, he did not.

Obama supported measures designed to insert a deadly "poison pill" to kill the immigration legislation.

If Obama didn't even have the courage to stand up for immigrants, how can he claim to have the strength to change the way Washington works?

John McCain is ready to lead. Barack Obama is not.

-Disclaimer-

Paid for by the Republican National Committee.

www.gop.com

Authorized by John McCain 2008, Inc."

LATINO ACTORS HONORED AT 23rd ANNUAL IMAGEN AWARDS

Tomas — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 00:41:02 +0000

"The Hollywood stars were out last night in full force as nearly 1000 actors, entertainment industry executives, film and television studios and supporters attended the 23rd Annual Imagen Awards Gala ceremony at the nearly sold-out Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Actors John Leguizamo, Edward James Olmos, Lupe Ontiveros, Eva La Rue and Cesar Millan, Leonor Varela, Carlos Mencia, Dania Ramirez and many more could be seen gracing the Gala’s Red Carpet as fans, media, and the general public flocked to the hotel’s lobby and ballrooms for a glimpse.

18 awards were presented in a diverse range of entertainment categories in addition to several Imagen Foundation legacy awards: Actor Tony Plana received the Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award; HBO's In Treatment Producer/Director Rodrigo Garcia received the Creative Achievement Award; and Ligiah Villalobos, executive producer and writer of the feature film La Misma Luna, received the Foundation’s esteemed Norman Lear Writer's Award.

"This year we saw a massive increase in both the quantity and quality of exceptional submissions across categories," stated Helen Hernandez, Founder and President of The Imagen Foundation and creator of the pioneering Imagen Awards. "The A-list stars and luminaries this ceremony attracts each year from the world of Latino entertainment is truly reflective of the increased prevalence that we play in Hollywood, mainstream America, and throughout the world.”

The awards included presenters and coverage from LATV, the nation’s first bilingual entertainment/music network distributed via digital multicast, that will broadcast a one-hour special on their channel featuring Red Carpet arrivals and behind-the-scenes exclusives of nominated/winning Latinos from the 2008 Imagen Awards ceremony.

The Imagen Awards were established in 1985 to encourage and recognize the positive portrayal of Latinos in the media. The awards strive to increase Latino representation at all levels of the industry by proving recognition to emerging and established Latinos in the entertainment industry.

The winners are:
Lifetime Achievement Award (Foundation Legacy Award): Tony Plana

Norman Lear Writer's Award (Foundation Legacy Award): Ligiah Villalobos, "La Misma Luna”

Creative Achievement Award (Foundation Legacy Award): Rodrigo Garcia

Film-Best Picture: "La Misma Luna"

Film Best Actor: Adrian Alonso, "La Misma Luna"

Film Best Actress: Kate del Castillo, "La Misma Luna"

Film Best Supporting Actress: Leonor Varela, "Where God Left His Shoes"

Film Best Supporting Actor: Eungene Durbez, "La Misma Luna"

Film Best Director: Patricia Riggen, "La Misma Luna"

Film Best Theatrical Short or Student Film: "A Day at the Theatre"

TV Best Documentary: "Brown is the New Green"

TV Best Primetime Program: "Ugly Betty"

TV Best Actor: Carlos Mencia, "Mind of Mencia"

TV Best Actress: Christina Milian, "Snowglobe"

TV Best Supporting Actor: Tony Plana, "Ugly Betty"

TV Best Supporting Actress: Dania Ramirez, "Heroes"

TV Best Variety or Reality Show: "Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan"

TV Best Children's Programming: "Go, Diego, Go"

TV Best Local Informational Programming: "Fox 11 News: Alter the Melee"

TV Best National Informational Programming: "Nick News With Linda Ellerbee Presents I'm American! They're Not!"

TV Best On Air Advertising: "MTV3 Tu Pride""

National Latino Leaders to Stand Together in Denver to Honor Marriage and Family

Tomas — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 00:07:47 +0000

"Viva la Familia! Event will Launch Unprecedented National Coalition of Catholic and Evangelical Leaders
National Catholic and Evangelical leaders from Colorado, California, and Arizona will stand together to honor marriage and family in Denver this weekend.
The Alliance for Marriage Foundation (AFM), the national group who drafted the Marriage Protection Amendment in Congress, is organizing the non-partisan celebration called Viva la Familia!, which will feature prominent Latino leaders and entertainers in celebration of marriage and family.
"Marriage and family are central to Hispanic Americans," said Rev. Sam Rodriguez, Jr., an AFM Advisory Board Member and President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, who will be speaking at the event. "It is the driving engine of our growth and success as a community."
The celebration, being held at the Ninth Street Park at the University of Colorado Denver on Sunday afternoon will break new ground by launching an unprecedented national coalition of Catholic and Evangelical Latino leaders in support of marriage and family.
Featured speakers include Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, Jr., President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, Alejandro Bermudez, Director of the Catholic News Agency and the Catholic Information Agency ACI-Prensa, the most read Spanish Catholic web site in the world, Rev. Eve Nunez, President of the Arizona Latino Commission, and Luis Soto, Executive Director of the Denver-based Centro San Juan Diego, Archdiocese of Denver.
"Viva la Familia! Event, wants to remind us all that the most important social institution is the family," said Luis Soto, Executive Director of Centro San Juan Diego, Archdiocese of Denver. "The family formed when a man and woman marry for their common good and for the procreation and education of their children. It is this spirit of celebrating and growing as Hispanic families that we will gather."
Mexican actor, Eduardo Verastegui will also deliver an important message on marriage and family to attendees at the Viva la Familia! Event via remote from Mexico City.
Entertainment will be provided by the renowned Mexican clown Cepillin, who was for many years a great TV star in more than 18 countries. The event will also feature the Catholic recording artist Ge'La.
The emerging importance of the Latino community to America's political landscape has long been documented by demographic experts. In fact, the population of Latinos in America "will triple in size" in the next four decades, according to the Pew Research Center.
In light of this, political operatives in both parties are working harder than ever to cultivate Latino voters. But while Latinos do have the political power to determine elections, many in American politics have ignored the deep attachment to marriage and family that is woven into the very fabric of the Latino community nationwide.
The Alliance for Marriage is a multicultural coalition whose Board of Advisors includes Rev. Walter Fauntroy -- the D.C. Coordinator of the March on Washington for Martin Luther King Jr. -- as well as other civil rights and religious leaders, and national legal experts. www.afmusa.org"

Angelo Paparelli Receives Top Honors from Two Leading Publications Attorney Named “Most Highly Nominated Corporate Immigration Lawyer” by International Who’s Who of Corporate Immigration Lawyers and Ranked as a Band #1 Immigration Lawyer by Chambers USA

Tomas — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 22:29:56 +0000

Hispanic & Latino Events at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) - Denver 2008

Tomas — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 09:25:46 +0000

If you know of any others please contact me.

Sunday August 24th
- 3:30pm College Democrats Hispanic Caucus - Convention Center
Monday August 25th
- 10am Hispanic Caucus - Corbel Room - Colorado Convention Center
- 1:30pm NDN - Immigration Reform and the Next Administration - The Hilton Garden Inn
- 7pm Salute to Hispanic Caucus, Delegates & Voters Signature Hispanic event of the DNC - Grand Hyatt, Imperial Ballroom 1750 Welton Street
Tuesday August 26th
- 10:30am Crashing La Pachanga: Opening lines of communication - Rootscamp Open Space area on the 4th floor of the Alliance Center, located right next door to the Big Tent.
- 11:30am Latino Leaders Luncheon Series honoring Federico Pena
- 2pm THE HISPANIC INSTITUTE AND THE COMMON GOOD JOIN IN PRESENTING TWO MAJOR EVENTS FOR THE DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION
Wednesday August 27
- 10am Hispanic Caucus - Corbel Room - Colorado Convention Center
- 12pm NALEO to Brief DNC, RNC Convention on Latino Electorate and 2008 Voter Mobilization Efforts - DNC
- 7pm Latino Vote - Club Vinyl - put on by Voto Latino - Rosario Dawson will be hosting
Thursday August 28
- 9am Immigrant Rights March

Most Talented in Latin Hip Hop Take Center Ring at Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos in Los Angeles

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:43:43 +0000

"The most innovative Latin battle emcees (MCs) in Los Angeles will take the stage at Club 740 (740 S. Broadway) at 8 p.m. in what is sure to be a heated match at the world's most well-respected international freestyle MC competition known as Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos ( www.redbullbatalladelosgallos.com ). The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature talented lyricists from Los Angeles rapping solely in Spanish in a no-holds-barred clash to find the best Latin MC in Los Angeles. The winner of the Los Angeles qualifier will advance to the U.S. National Final also to be held in Los Angeles on October 3, 2008 at the Pico Rivera Sports Arena. The U.S. finalist will then head to the international stage in Mexico City to compete against lyricists from 15 other Spanish-speaking countries in the International Final to crown the 'best Latin battle MC' in the world.

"This is truly the 'heavy-weight world championship' of all of Latin Hip Hop," said Sami Cultura, 2007 U.S. Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos winner. "This is the premier showcase of rising Latino artists in the U.S. and around the world, helping to pave the way and grow the influence of Latin Hip Hop."

Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos is fast-paced freestyle battle rapping at its very best, allowing MCs one minute to prove their skills or be knocked out in single elimination rounds. The international battle will feature talent from countries including: Mexico, Venezuela, Panama, Spain, Ecuador, Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Guatemala, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Colombia, United States and Puerto Rico.

"The battles are intense, 'gloves off' competitions that leave crowds pumped and amazed every time," said Eduardo Torres, judge from a previous Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos qualifier. "There is not one moment where you don't feel the pulse and the intensity of the beats pumping to the words and rhymes of the MCs that are wanting nothing less than a full blown knock-out!"

Hundreds of Latin Hip Hop fans are expected to attend this free event to witness first-hand these talented young MCs. Additional information regarding the L.A. qualifier can be accessed at www.redbullbatalladelosgallos.com .

From these L.A. finalists along with other MCs from qualifiers in San Francisco and New York City, the U.S winner will receive an all-expense-paid trip to Mexico City to compete in the international finals. They will also have an opportunity to record his or her music in the prestigious Red Bull Studios in Santa Monica, California where platinum-recording artists such as Young Buck have been in session. The international Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos winner will walk away with worldwide bragging rights, cash and custom memorabilia.

Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos' first international freestyle MC competition began in 2005 with only eight countries rallying in Puerto Rico for the first batalla. Four years later, Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos has expanded with a diverse range of talent, including the first Latina MC from Venezuela competing last year in the international finals alongside great U.S. Latino artists that have quickly risen to fame. Last year's U.S. winner, L.A.'s very own Sami Cultura, has since propelled to the top of the Latin Hip Hop scene sharing the same spotlight with artists such as Don Omar, Daddy Yankee, Ivy Queen, and is expected to soon release his second album with collaborations from Latin Hip Hop's very own Roocky, Pit Bull, and Aldo. Red Bull Batalla de los Gallos has quickly become one of the best competitions for identifying future Latin Hip Hop talent.

For more information, including photos, video, and additional materials, please visit www.redbullbatalladelosgallos.com
"

National LATINA Symposium to celebrate Latina achievement in the United States

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:42:43 +0000

"LATINA Style, the premier magazine addressing the needs of professional Latinas in the U.S., will host the 5th annual National LATINA Symposium on September 5, 2008 at the Capital Hilton in Washington D.C. The Symposium provides a national platform for Latina entrepreneurs and professional working women to address the status of the Hispanic woman in the United States.

The Honorable Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen [R-FL] is the chair for this year's symposium. Open to the public and attended by Latina leaders from corporate America, the government and military, the Symposium will feature panels and workshops designed to unite and empower Latinas. This year LATINA Style will further expand the Symposium by producing a groundbreaking panel designed to address issues unique to Latinas in the military.

The Symposium will conclude with the Distinguished Service Awards Luncheon, which LATINA Style co-hosts with the Department of Defense. At the luncheon 14 award recipients, representing all branches of the Armed Forces, will be honored for their excellence in service.

The evening of the National LATINA Symposium, LATINA Style will host the Anna Maria Arias Memorial Business Fund Gala. This program, created in memory of LATINA Style Founder Anna Maria Arias, will award grants to 10 Latina entrepreneurs from across the nation, who have demonstrated excellence in entrepreneurship and commitment to their community.

The 2008 National LATINA Symposium sponsors are: State Farm, the Department of Defense, the Hershey Company, the United States Navy, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Sam's Club and United Healthcare/AARP.

For more information and to register visit www.nls.latinastyle.com or call 703-312-0904. "

Chicago’s Puerto Rican Story to Debut on WTTW11 - New local documentary chronicles the Puerto Rican experience in Chicago

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:41:09 +0000

"WTTW11, Chicago's leading public television station, is proud to present the world premiere of the locally-produced documentary Chicago's Puerto Rican Story on Tuesday, September 9th at 7:30 p.m. The program, several years in the making, paints an inspiring portrait of the Puerto Rican experience in Chicago, looking at the early years of migration, settlement, struggles and contributions of this vital community as it recollects the events and influences that shaped its political awareness and activism.

Through the use of personal and archival photos and footage, and interviews with early migrants, community leaders and historians, Chicago's Puerto Rican Story touches on the themes of family, work, housing, education, and organizing successes: the creation of community organizations, health centers and clinics; the implementation of educational reforms; the hiring of Puerto Rican police officers; elected officials at every level of government; and the creation of a cultural and commercial business district known as "Paseo Boricua." Interview subjects include U.S. Congressman Luis Gutierrez, Chicago City Clerk Miguel Del Valle, Illinois State Senator Iris Martinez, Chicago Aldermen Billy Ocasio and Rey Colon, and many other prominent members of the community. The film is narrated by independent filmmaker and educator Gloricelly Franceschi, who also wrote the script.

The film comes to WTTW11 from New Film Productions, and was produced, directed and written by Antonio and Gloricelly Franceschi. "We are excited and honored that WTTW11 has given us the opportunity to share this compelling story with their viewers," said Antonio Franceschi. "It's important that people understand how the Puerto Ricans' history has shaped who they are as a community today," he added. Daniel Soles, WTTW's Senior Vice President and Chief Television Content Officer, agrees. "We feel this program will shine a well-deserved spotlight on this rich and diverse group," he said. "It is very much in line with WTTW's long-standing commitment to informing and enlightening our audience about all aspects of our city's cultural heritage," he added.

WTTW11 and Chicago's Puerto Rican Story will have a presence at the 15th annual Fiesta Boricua on August 31, and for information on a special Humboldt Park preview screening, please contact Alejandro Molina or Raul Echevarria at the Puerto Rican Cultural Center at (773) 342-8023.

Chicago's Puerto Rican Story was produced and directed by Antonio Franceschi, and written, produced and hosted by Gloricelly Franceschi. Photography is by Felix Mendez, with original music by Tino "Archie" Ojeda, Jr.

About New Film Productions
An award-winning Latino-owned motion picture and television production company, New Film Productions was founded by Antonio Franceschi in the summer of 1989. New Film Productions' mission is to be a leader in the creation and promotion of quality educational and entertaining programs for the television, cable and theatrical markets.

About WTTW11
For more than 50 years, audiences have turned to WTTW11 for distinctive programming that informs, inspires, educates and entertains. It reaches two million weekly viewers over a four-state area, making it the most-watched public television station in America. Recognized for its award-winning local and national productions, WTTW11 is committed to presenting the very best in cultural, nature, science, public affairs and children's programming across its four distinct television channels: WTTW11, WTTWD, its Spanish-language channel V-me, and WTTW Create.

"

Daimler/Mercedes Benz, Port of Long Beach Condemned for Teaming | LULAC-League of United Latin American Citizens

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:35:23 +0000

"A delegation of high-ranking representatives from civil rights, minority, consumer and worker rights’ advocacy groups including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) were joined today by several dozen activists carrying signs calling for an end to a predatory lending scheme by Daimler/Mercedes Benz and the Port of Long Beach. Noisy protests at the German Embassy in Washington, DC and Mercedes-Benz’ parent company in the Detroit-area culminated with
the simultaneous delivery of a report to company and diplomatic officials entitled “Foreclosure on Wheels: Long Beach’s Truck Program Puts Drivers at High Risk for Default.”

In a written statement by NAACP Chairman Julian Bond read at the German Embassy, Bond emphasized that Daimler/Mercedes’ participation in the Long Beach financing scheme may have widereaching effects in communities of color that are already struggling economically: “The current subprime mortgage debacle illustrates how many institutions profit by enticing minority and low-income borrowers with schemes using too-easy credit to finance purchases with loans they are unable to repay…. We ask Daimler’s corporate officials to show their commitment to socially responsible business practices by abandoning this risky, dangerous venture – if not for the sake of Daimler shareholders and their company’s image, then for the sake of the truck drivers and their communities.”

The report analyzes the financial risk and details concerns that the Port of Long Beach, in partnership with Daimler, has wrongfully placed the burden for cleaner commerce on Latino-American and immigrant port drivers by targeting the workers – not their companies – to sign up for risky loans to replace a fleet of 16,000 aging vehicles. Under the terms of the lease-to-own scheme, Daimler will
financially back low-emissions trucks (costing $100,000-$200,000 after volume discounts) to any driver whose dirty diesel rig was recently banned by the port, regardless of his/her credit worthiness and ability to pay. Port drivers, before the cost of fuel skyrocketed, netted an average of $11 an hour. The monthly payment for the trucks is between $500-1,000 for seven years, with a balloon payment of
$7,000-$15,000 at the end of the lease term.

“Instead of trying to help residents and workers, a public, government entity has outrageously teamed up with Daimler/Mercedes to hoodwink the hard-working drivers who haul cargo from our shores to America’s stores” said LULAC President Rosa Rosales, whose organization helped lead the German Embassy protest and delegation.

A Daimler official told Long Beach officials in a public forum on June 30 that the company expects “over 40%” of port drivers to have “high difficulty meeting the payments,” a staggering acknowledgement overridden by Daimler’s strength in “managing collections,” i.e., repossessing trucks.

Before a crowd in Michigan outside of Daimler’s corporate home, Patricia Castellanos of the Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy urged the Long Beach Port and the German luxury giant to avoid the same discriminatory practices that provoked domino-effect defaults in the mortgage market, and to instead focus lending efforts on capitalized trucking companies to avoid scarring communities. “We believe that there is an undeniable link between clean air, efficient port operations, and fairly-paid employee drivers. Achieving the environmental goals requires shifting the responsibility to where it rightfully belongs: to a stable, accountable and asset-based trucking industry.”

Richard Holober, executive director of the Consumer Federation of California added: “These kinds of discriminatory loans won’t just affect the thousands of California’s port drivers as individual borrowers, but entire families and their futures as well. The companies that profit from global trade are in a financially more stable position to invest in the new clean technology we need to keep our communities healthy – low-wage workers aren’t.”

“Foreclosure on Wheels: Long Beach’s Truck Program Puts Drivers at High Risk for Default,” was issued jointly by the Consumer Federation of California , the NAACP, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and the Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy. Southern California port drivers and their advocates are submitting the report to Daimler/Mercedes-Benz officials at the Port of Long Beach this week."

National Latina Business Women Association - Atlanta Chapter Meets To Introduce And Brand A Program To Empower And Educate

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:19:51 +0000

"There is excitement growing among Atlanta Latinas… and in the broader sense Hispanics. If you want to know the difference between the terms, be at Loca Luna on August 26th from 6:00-8:00 PM and ask anyone with the National Latina Business Women Association. These ladies are meeting with a purpose; to encourage membership in the organization formed for the support, mentoring, and education of Latinas.

There is a natural, perhaps cultural, camaraderie between these women that is inspiring. And that enthusiasm extends beyond their ranks. The Board of Directors for the NLBWA is comprised of some of the most active community-minded professionals you are likely to meet; a diverse international group of businesswomen that govern the organization with a commitment to take action; action to support the rich and underrepresented potential of Latinas in Atlanta's workforce. The goals define the programs, and programs are focused on empowerment and education.

When asked about the upcoming gathering, NLBWA Board President, Lily Winsaft, said, "For aspiring Latina entrepreneurs or Latinas interested in advancing their current careers, this event is not to be missed! NLBWA is dedicated to enriching the professional and business lives of Latinas. Our chapter - launched recently in Atlanta - is all about helping Latinas break through the barriers to success in business, whether it is climbing the corporate ladder or succeeding as business owners. The choices available in today's world can be daunting and we all need help navigating the myriad of resources out there. NLBWA is a membership organization that benefits Latinas in business through networking, connections, mentoring and educational workshops. All are welcome!"

Sponsored entirely by Loca Luna, voted one of the top 10 Latin Clubs in America by USA Today, the evening will include: free parking, cash bar, hors d'oeurvres, door prizes, networking opportunities, and a unique international brand of Girl Power! You will find Loca Luna… and the NLBWA, at 550 Amsterdam Avenue, NE Atlanta, Georgia 30306. Be there. "

‘Karlifornia’ Back With More on Being a Young Latina in L.A.

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:17:58 +0000

"When MTV Tr3's viewers left Karli Henriquez last season, her namesake show "Karlifornia" was generating enormous buzz among young Latinos for the show's tell-it-like-it-really-is look at living in a bilingual and bicultural world. In season two of "Karlifornia," which premieres on August 19th at 4pm and 9pm, Karli's thriving television and radio career is balanced by her abuelita's reminders to remember her roots and to get married, soon! Karli kicks off the season celebrating her birthday with a star-studded night at one of L.A.'s hottest clubs and figuring out how she's going to tell her boyfriend he may not be able to walk the red carpet with her. "I'm in a place I could only dream of, an 818 Valley girl now going to VIP parties and big red carpet events on the other side of the hill, but there's a lot to balance and figure out," says Karli. Since debuting last November, "Karlifornia" has followed Karli, the quintessential Angelina, as she opens up about growing up in L.A., her personal life, family, dating and more. Her rapid ascent into the world of personalities to watch has Karli trying to balance things like her family, boyfriend, friends and school. Season two of "Karlifornia" sees Karli trying to straddle her Latino-ness and American-ness, her radio gig and her television duties, her love life and her demanding career that constantly has her on the move. Plus, her Mexican and Salvadoran family is doing all they can to help Karli keep it real. Fans can get to know Karli even better by visiting karlifornia.mtvtr3s.com, where they can watch full episodes of the show, browse behind-the-scenes photos, and read making-of-the-show chisme on Karli's "My Barrio" blog. Later in the season, fans will get an added digital bonus with "Consejos de Abuelita," an online application permitting users to send in their questions to abuelita, seeking words of wisdom from Karli's grandma. MTV Tr3s Mobile will show full episodes on all wireless carrier distribution partners, including mobile VOD and mobile TV partners. In addition, full episodes will be syndicated to all online syndication partners. MTV Tr3's (mtvTr3s.com) is in 6.4 million Hispanic TV households and 34 million total TV households, making it the most-widely distributed TV network dedicated to super-serving today's bicultural Latino youth. MTV Tr3's programming is rooted in the fusion of American and Latino music, cultures, lifestyles and languages. Music programming is at the core of MTV Tr3's and the channel features hitmakers, emerging artists and new sounds that resonate with young U.S. Latinos. In addition to music programming, the MTV Tr3's programming slate also features lifestyle series, news, documentaries and other long-form programs that celebrate US Latino hybrid identity and culture. "

BERNARDO RUIZ’S ROBERTO CLEMENTE WINS OUTSTANDING MADE-FOR-TELEVISION DOCUMENTARY AWARD

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:09:57 +0000

Azteca Mobile Taps Levenson & Hill for Cross-Border Strategic Media Services - MarketWatch

Tomas — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:01:09 +0000

"Levenson & Hill has been selected by Azteca Mobile to develop strategic media services for the wireless company's pioneering mobile and radio services at the border between the United States and Mexico.
Azteca Mobile is the first wireless provider to offer both mobile and radio (Walkie-talkie/push and talk) services to the Mexican community in the United States, to customers who frequently cross the U.S.-Mexico border and to those in Mexico whose friends and relatives are in the United States.
"We are very happy to have engaged the media services of Levenson & Hill," said Sergio Montalvo, marketing director for Azteca Mobile, LLC, based in Glendale, Calif. "We believe our products and services are focused on a unique niche that fortunately is growing, and we are delighted to be working with Levenson & Hill to reach consumers with our message."
Levenson & Hill's Juan Pablo Achinte said: "We are very privileged to partner with the customer-focused team at Azteca Mobile to bring our extensive knowledge of the U.S. market and retail distribution channels to their innovative and growing business."
Azteca Mobile's pre-paid, contract-free service offers consumers many plans and options -- "Your phone has dual citizenship" is the company's tagline -- among them:

-- If customers purchase an Azteca Mobile phone with the "No Borders
Plan," U.S. and Mexico calls consist of one region and all calls have the
same flat rate.

-- Customers may have one number in the United States and other numbers
in Mexico by activating "My Mexican Number" features, so they can easily be
reached by anyone in the U.S. or Mexico with no long distance charges.

-- Azteca Mobile also offers the only pay-as-you go mobile phone service
with two-way radio that works in both the U.S. and Mexico.

For more information on Azteca Mobile visit www.aztecamobile.com.
About Levenson & Hill:
Levenson & Hill is an independent, full-service agency headquartered in Dallas. With billings of more than $100 million, the agency specializes in retail, services and entertainment marketing communications. Levenson & Hill is part of the Levenson Group of Companies, which includes Levenson Entertainment Group publicity and promotion, Levenson & Brinker Public Relations, Levenson Interactive and Legion Levenson & Hill multicultural marketing. More at www.levensonandhill.com

Contact:

Levenson & Hill
Juan Pablo Achinte
Senior Media Planner
Juan.achinte@landh.com
214-932-6045

Chris Kelley
chris.kelley@landh.com
"