News Hub | News Direct

Entertainment

Animation Dance E-Sports Entertainment/Celebrity Film Music Radio Restaurants Sports Television Theater Video Virtual Reality
Article thumbnail Digital Asset Direct

Room to Roam: ‎The Elephant’s Path to Climate Resilience

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

June 10, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

Comcast Announces Live American Sign Language Interpreting Services at Eight Bay Area Xfinity Store Locations

Comcast California

As part of its ongoing commitment to digital inclusion and accessibility, Comcast today announced the availability of live American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting services at eight Xfinity Store Locations in the Greater Bay Area. Customers who need ASL support can stop into any of the select Bay Area Xfinity Stores, where representatives will utilize ASL Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) to access a live interpreter provided by partner, Communication Service for the Deaf (CSD). The Retail Associate simply taps the app on the store iPad and is connected in moments via video to a live interpreter who can translate from ASL to English and vice versa as the customer and Associate converse. “We’re proud to deliver an inclusive service solution that will help more customers better interact and engage with Retail Associates representing our Xfinity Products and Services, to provide them with a much better in-store experience,” said Thomas Wlodkowski, Comcast Vice President for Accessibility. “I’m also grateful to our partners in California — who are helping to close the digital divide for more members of our disabled community by working with us on a variety of digital equity initiatives.” Comcast launched the ASL VRI service as a pilot in select stores last year; it is the first telecommunications retailer in the country to offer live, on-demand, remote ASL interpreting services in stores to better serve customers. The company is expanding the service to additional stores across the country this year. The eight Xfinity Greater Bay Area stores that offer ASL VRI service include: San Jose: 1068 E. Brokaw Rd. # 50, San Jose, CA 95131 Sunnyvale: 301 W. McKinley Ave. Suite 140, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 San Jose: 1566 Monterey Hwy #20, San Jose, CA 95110 San Jose: 1600 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 Palo Alto: 2825 El Camino Real #100, Palo Alto, CA 94306 Fremont: 43325 Christy St., Fremont, CA 94538 Oakland: 3070 E. 9 th St., Oakland, CA 94601 Dublin: 4104 Grafton St., Dublin, CA 94568 “As part of California School for the Deaf’s mission, we are deeply committed to providing a language rich environment that maximizes communication access in order for our students to lead fulfilling lives,” said Amy Novotny, Superintendent, California School for the Deaf. “Access to technology and connectivity builds confidence and independence, and that’s why we are excited to partner with Comcast on opportunities to close the digital divide for members of our Deaf and hard of hearing community.” The American Community Survey (ACS) estimates that 3.6% of the U.S. population is “deaf or have serious difficulty hearing.” Additionally, according to Pew Research Center, 23% of people with disabilities say they never go online, with 57% saying they do not have a home broadband connection. That’s why, through its Project UP initiative, Comcast is working to address and eliminate the unique barriers to connectivity through a series of efforts, including Internet Essentials, Lift Zones, and skill development and training. In addition to announcing this inclusive retail experience for customers, Comcast donated $60,000 in digital equity grants to community partners, San Francisco LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, California School for the Deaf, and the World Institute on Disability. These grants aim to broaden the scope of digital inclusion and accessibility to students, families, seniors, and community members. “Assistive technologies are opening doors to greater independence for folks with a range of disabilities,” said Sharon Giovinazzo Chief Executive Officer of the San Francisco LightHouse of the Blind and Visually Impaired. “These innovations truly can level the playing field. Comcast has been a valued partner in delivering technologies and supporting our efforts to promote independence, community, and equity for blind and low vision people.” “Diversity, equity and inclusion are the guiding stars of what we do here at the World Institute on Disability, and it is gratifying to see partners, such as Comcast, who also believe that equity and accessibility go hand-in-hand,” said Marcie Roth, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, World Institute on Disability. “Technology continues to evolve rapidly, and we must continue to work together to invest in solutions, which will help support people with disabilities having equal and greater access to products and services in today’s world as well as laying the foundation for greater accessibility for future generations.” About Comcast’s Accessibility Program: For more than a decade, Comcast has invested in making its products, technology, and experiences accessible to the widest possible audience while opening new doors to independence for people with disabilities. These innovations include the Large Button Voice Remote, voted USA Today’s Best Accessible Design remote in 2023, and the Xfinity Adaptive Web Remote. To learn more about Comcast’s groundbreaking accessibility work, visit corporate.comcast.com/accessibility. About Comcast Corporation: Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms, we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Calfornia Jon Koriel +1 925-315-2690 jon_koriel@comcast.com Company Website https://california.comcast.com/

June 06, 2024 10:15 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Black Radiance Launches Beautyverse App as First Step into Beauty Tech Space

Black Radiance

Black Radiance, one of the first inclusive beauty brands, is excited to launch its first augmented reality app, Beyond Radiant. Available now in all app stores, Beyond Radiant empowers women of color with the confidence to be their best selves by seeing the unlimited possibilities in the avatars. Beyond Radiant stands at the intersection of augmented reality technology, beauty, and empowerment. Unlike traditional beauty apps that focus solely on makeup application, Beyond Radiant offers an immersive experience surrounding four diverse avatars, each with unique personalities and professions, to inspire women of color and foster a community of confident, empowered women who see themselves in the achievements and aspirations of the app’s avatar. “Black Radiance has always stood on the cutting-edge of the intersection between beauty and race,” said Sherry West, Brand Marketing Manager at Black Radiance. “We know the way of the future is to embrace technology in new and unique ways, especially with the increasing presence of AI in the beauty industry. We’re excited to step into the future in an inclusive way that holds true to Black Radiance’s long-standing mission of empowering women of color.” Beyond Radiant Augmented Reality avatars are inspired by history-making women who have blazed new paths for Black women, like NASA Astronaut Jessica Watkins, and record-breaking ice skater Starr Andrews. Jessica Watkins is the first Black woman to complete an International Space Station long-term mission, while Starr Andrews is the first African American woman to win a Grand Prix medal in the singles discipline. The dedication, creativity, imagination, and fortitude of these women can be seen in the four avatars: The Boss Babe, The Champ, The Content Creator, and The Innovator. “In a world where beauty standards often feel limiting, Black Radiance dares to redefine what beauty can mean for women of color,” said K. Parris MacDonald, Vice President of Marketing at Black Radiance. “The Beyond Radiant App feels like a natural progression to further offering space to women of color to be their authentic selves and see themselves reflected in the narratives of achievement and success.” The Beyond Radiant app is available to download in all app stores now and at www.blackradiancebeauty.com. For more information and updates, visit www.blackradiancebeauty.com/beyondradiant and follow @blackradiancebeauty on social media. Hi-res images and interviews are available upon request. About Black Radiance: For over 30 years, Black Radiance® has recognized, represented, and celebrated the diversity of darker complexions by offering affordable, high-quality cosmetics with uncompromising color, trusted coverage, and formula innovation. Black Radiance empowers and inspires women of color through cosmetics, beauty, and lifestyles. Our mission – to enable Black women worldwide to be even more beautiful. We promise to create both products and experiences that encourage women of color worldwide to embrace, enhance, define, and love their shade of beauty. Contact Details Cami Carlson camryn@six-one.com

June 06, 2024 08:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

West Hollywood’s 40th Anniversary: Vacation in The High-Energy Playground to the Stars, Full of Sunshine, Style, and Culture

YourUpdateTV

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/XeWP9LIZ9Nw Style, culture, glamour, luxury, fun, wellness, shopping, design, trendsetting, playground to the stars, iconic. Those are just some of the words to describe West Hollywood, California’s most walkable city in the heart of LA. This year, West Hollywood celebrates its 40th anniversary with four decades of cultural innovation, diversity, and unparalleled experiences in one of Southern California’s most iconic cities, measuring only 1.9 square miles. With influence from rock ‘n roll, folk, hair, metal bands and the distinct charm and the continuance of the famed Halloween Carnaval and WeHo Pride contribute to the rich tapestry of West Hollywood's cultural relevance, not to mention being the hub of many reality TV shows and paparazzi sightings. West Hollywood also has a long history of enacting progressive policies that protect and promote the rights of the minority, including the LGBTQ+ community. West Hollywood became an official city in 1984 with a majority-gay city council and its first openly gay mayor was elected in 1985. West Hollywood hosts one of the largest and most vibrant Pride celebrations in the country, attracting global visitation. This annual event showcases the city's commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity and provides a platform for the local LGBTQ+ community and the many businesses that serve it. West Hollywood commemorates these milestones with 40 Days of Pride and the return of WeHo Pride. “Pride Starts Here” kicked off on Harvey Milk Day (May 22) and runs through June 30 for “40 Days of Pride'' with programming that includes the WeHo Pride Weekend Parade, the Dyke March, the WeHo Pride Arts Festival and more. Headliners for the 2024 OUTLOUD festival included Kylie Minogue, Janelle Monāe, Kesha, and Diplo. A nationwide media tour was conducted on May 21st with Jeff Morris, Chief Marketing Officer, West Hollywood Travel and Tom Kiely, President and CEO, West Hollywood Travel + Tourism Board. Topics that were discussed during the media tour included: ● How guests can dive into the cultural forefront by exploring West Hollywood's three neighborhoods: The Design District, Santa Monica Boulevard (including LA’s Rainbow District) and the famed Sunset Strip, all nestled in the heart of LA. ● WeHo Pride celebrates 40 Days of Pride, coinciding this year with West Hollywood’s 40th Anniversary. ● What some of the summer cultural, culinary and entertainment highlights will be for anyone visiting including new trendsetting restaurants, bars, boutique, including 20 fabulous hotels, ranging from luxury to historic to celebrity drenched, not to mention the phenomenon of "roof topping” (swimming pools, sun decks and even pickleball). For more information, visit VisitWestHollywood.com. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

June 05, 2024 02:29 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Video
Article thumbnail News Release

VISIONARY DIRECTOR JONATHAN BAKER ANNOUNCES FINAL FILM “ICON” AND SETS PRODUCTION FOR 2025

FATE

Los Angeles, CA (May 28, 2024) - Baker Entertainment Group, a film development and production company rooted in the tradition of classic Hollywood romance by visionary filmmaker Jonathan Baker, announced today it has wrapped production on “Fate” and is looking ahead to its next and final film. Baker’s next project “ICON” will be his final act as he sets sail on his directorial career in Hollywood. ”ICON” is about a soul that moves through a hundred years until it reaches its destiny as a rock star, using one family’s saga through immigration and musical history as its backdrop. “ICON” will head into production in 2025. "I've waited my entire life to share this story," said Jonathan Baker. "This narrative of ICON is crucial to America, highlighting the significance of immigration and how it shaped our nation. Our past is integral to our identity. A film like ICON is truly unique; it blends a historical perspective with a musical lens like never before." Baker envisions a star-studded ensemble cast coming together to create what he calls “a musical masterpiece” for “ICON”. Production on Baker’s last film “Fate” has wrapped, featuring an all star cast that includes Academy Award-winning actor Faye Dunaway (“Bonnie & Clyde”, “Chinatown”), Academy Award-nominee Harvey Keitel (“Bugsy”, “Taxi Driver”), Actor, Director, Writer, Andrew McCarthy (“The Blacklist,” “Orange is the New Black”, “Brats”), Brandon Routh (“Superman Returns”), Mena Suvari (“Grace and Grit”), Cheech Marin (“From Dusk Till Dawn”), and Janet Montgomery (“Black Swan”, “Black Mirror”). “The magic of the film is that everyone is not what they appear to be”, said Academy Award-winner Faye Dunaway. Jonathan Baker spent two years crafting the cast of “Fate” by hiring against type for each role. “Fate” and “ICON” are both co-written by Micheal Buhlman and Jonathan Baker. “Fate” is currently looking for a domestic distributor who believes in theatrical releases. Highland Film Group is handling international sales which kicked off at this year's Cannes Film Festival. For more information, please visit https://www.bakerentertainmentgroup.com/. ### Contact Details Jive PR + Digital Jordan Parlee jordan@jiveprdigital.com Company Website https://www.bakerentertainmentgroup.com

June 04, 2024 02:31 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Article thumbnail News Release

Is Gamification The Future Of Advertising? Here’s How One Company Is Shaking Up The Industry

Overplay

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga In the early 90s and even 2000s, ads were a key part of consuming media and advertising was, in a way, fun. Commercials were part of the popular culture monolith and it was clear that advertising budgets were spent with intention. Ask any 90s kid, and they can quote the most popular ads of the time, whether that is Tony the Tiger’s “They’re G-r-r-reat!” or Verizon’s (NYSE: VZ) “Can you hear me now?” Today, the landscape of ads has changed, and the overall feeling is not one of enjoyment but rather fatigue. Advertising seems to be missing its mark for the majority of viewers. While ads have always been looked at through the lens of doubt, only 4% of people in a recent study by Inc. Magazine believed they were trustworthy. Not to mention, people feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of ads they are exposed to on a daily basis, which makes them more likely to tune them out. Additionally, the cultural significance of advertising has diminished due to the increasing amount of ads on the internet, and most ads are not viewed as entertaining or effective at selling products. There has also been recent discourse that criticizes the rise of "woke-wash" advertising or makes false claims about social or environmental responsibility just for profit. “It’s harder to reach audiences, the cost of marketing is going up, the number of channels has exponentially proliferated and the cost to cover all of those channels has proliferated,” Jay Pattisall, the lead author of a recent advertising report, shared in an interview. “It’s a continual pressure for marketers – we’re no longer just creating advertising campaigns three or four times a year and running them across a few networks and print.” What Does The Future Of Successful Advertising Look Like? In a world where everyone seems to despise ads, gamification could be the next frontier for advertising, with 2 out of 3 Americans spending an hour on gaming every day. In this landscape, Overplay emerges as a solution that aims to disrupt the status quo. Overplay leverages the power of gamification and introduces a new approach to advertising that transforms traditional ads into interactive games. By turning ads into engaging experiences, Overplay seeks to capture users' attention and boost their active participation. Overplay's innovative platform empowers creators to effortlessly infuse their videos with interactive elements, removing the need for coding skills and technical expertise. This democratization of interactive content creation opens up a world of possibilities for creators, allowing them to tap into the immense popularity of gaming culture quickly and easily. The result is a more immersive and enjoyable ad experience that stands out amidst the noise of traditional advertising. Not only does Overplay benefit creators, but it also offers value to brands. By harnessing the power of playable game ads, brands can connect with their target audience in a highly interactive and memorable way. Plus, playable ads have been shown to achieve a staggering 7x higher conversion rate compared to other ad formats, making them a powerful tool for driving results. With Overplay, brands can create these effective playable game ads at a fraction of the cost and time traditionally required. The allure of Overplay is undeniable, with hundreds of thousands of app downloads and millions of games played. By recognizing that the current zeitgeist has shifted away from enjoying ads, Overplay has set out to transform the advertising landscape by making ads more enjoyable, interactive and effective through the power of gamification. Featured photo by Joshua Earle on Unsplash. Overplay is revolutionizing a $574 billion digital media landscape with the first frictionless platform for user-generated games.With Overplay, everyone can turn their videos into games and share them with the world — in minutes, for free, with no code. Overplay’s app can be used to quickly and easily make games from anything: funny moments with your friends, cat memes, cooking tutorials, extreme sports POVs, and more!Imagine the NBA creating playable highlights reels, movie studios releasing trailers that are games, and car companies making commercials where you virtually test drive their cars. Overplay’s app and licensable technology allows billions of creators, social media users, and brands to amplify audience engagement by making their content interactive.Overplay sits at the intersection of three massive markets: social media, video advertising, and casual gaming. We are merging everything that makes these markets successful into one revolutionary form of digital media that will be consumed and created by BILLIONs of potential Overplayers worldwideWith Overplay’s API, brands can apply a thin layer of gaming on top of videos already being streamed in advertisements. Because our technology is so simple and takes only a few minutes, Overplay cuts down on thousands of hours of production time and millions of dollars in costs for brands to leverage this highly engaging ad format. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Caroline Strzalka caroline@overplay.com Company Website https://overplay.com/

June 04, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Bitcoin (BTC) Stability Boosted By Massive ETF Inflows, Rebel Satoshi is on a dream presale run

Blockchain Digest

In the constantly changing world of cryptocurrency, periods of stability are really sought after, especially for Bitcoin (BTC). Right now, Bitcoin is seeing a boost in investor trust, thanks to big investments in spot BTC exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and favorable trading situations. At the same time, Rebel Satoshi Arcade (RECQ), a crypto project led by its community, is making great progress in its presale stage, catching the eye of both investors and fans. Massive ETF Inflows Boost Bitcoin Stability Bitcoin's recent stability can be credited to the huge influx of investments into spot BTC ETFs, signaling growing confidence among investors. According to Bitfinex researchers, Bitcoin has found solid support around the $60,000 level, thanks to consistently strong daily closures and significant withdrawals from crypto exchanges. Even with the massive outflows totaling $3.85 billion on May 15, Bitcoin's volatility remained low, and the cryptocurrency held its ground. What's particularly interesting is the spot Bitcoin ETF market in the US, which has seen net inflows for seven days in a row. This trend shows that investors are increasingly interested in BTC-related investment products, highlighting the growing appeal of Bitcoin as an asset class. Rebel Satoshi Arcade (RECQ) – Igniting The Wave Of Decentralization Picture this: in the bustling arena of cryptocurrency, Rebel Satoshi emerges as a beacon of hope, challenging the established presence of Bitcoin. It’s a rebellious project with the focus to transform the gaming and financial systems with complete decentralization. Do not think of Rebel Satoshi as another meme maniac, but a community-wide movement against the elites. With a unique dual-token system, featuring the Rebel Token (RBLZ) and the Requis Token (RECQ), it offers more than financial stakes – it stands for belonging and governance. If you hold this token, you are literally a decision maker in this project, while the other token serves a transactional purpose. The current presale has exceeded everyone's expectations with its remarkable success. Rebel Satoshi's innovative strategies and commitment to its community have generated immense interest and excitement. With ambitious goals outlined in its roadmap, such as reaching a $100 million market cap, Rebel Satoshi is poised for something substantial. And it's not mere speculation – comprehensive audits demonstrate the project's dedication to security and transparency, instilling confidence in potential investors. Rebel Satoshi isn't just about snagging investors; it's about making moves. Like, as this presale ramps up, it's drawing in investors who want to be a part of a bigger picture—a movement all about decentralization and making money stuff more fair for everyone. And, with each step it takes, Rebel Satoshi is cementing its spot as a big deal in the crypto scene. It's not just about throwing cash in; It's about having a shot at shaping a world where everybody gets a fair shake. Conclusion The combination of Bitcoin staying solid and all the hype around Rebel Satoshi’s presale is truly getting people excited about crypto. In this ever-changing world, projects like Rebel Satoshi offer a golden chance to be part of a community-driven push for a more inclusive financial future. Whether you’re a pro investor or just dipping your toes into crypto, now's the perfect time to check out Rebel Satoshi Arcade (RECQ) and dive into the vibe of innovation and empowerment. For the latest updates and more information, be sure to visit the official Rebel Satoshi Website or contact Rebel Red via Telegram. Contact Details Rebel Satoshi marketing@rebelsatoshi.com

June 04, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Expert Predictions: 4 Cryptos Primed for Significant Upside

Blockchain Digest

ONDO, Rebel Satoshi ($RECQ ), Ethena (ENA), and Optimism (OP) are gaining traction as the four most lucrative crypto investments in the current market space. Let’s take a more detailed look at the facts and analyze how high these tokens could reach over the next crypto bull run! Experts Rank ONDO Among the Best Altcoins to Buy Now Analysts point out that the opening of the ONDO-PERP market on the Coinbase International Exchange enabled ONDO to reach a new record high of $1.32 on May 26. Furthermore, ONDO bulls are convinced that the token will manage to sustain its positive momentum and increase toward the $1.50 threshold in the following months. Experts single out ONDO’s significant surges in terms of its Total Value Locked (TVL) as another reason for this optimistic ONDO price prediction. Thus, ONDO is gaining traction as one of the best altcoins to buy before the next crypto bull run. On the other hand, some analysts expect pronounced drops in ONDO’s imminent market performance based on the token’s inability to provide valuable short-term returns. According to ONDO bears, holders can expect corrections toward the $0.80 mark by the end of the year. Traders Recognize $RECQ as a Formidable Force in the Crypto Meme Market Rebel Satoshi is a new meme coin project aiming to reshape the crypto landscape through its dedication to the decentralized revolution. On top of that, Rebel Satoshi users receive excellent rewards by contributing to the development of the platform’s vibrant two-token ecosystem. $RBLZ offers excellent real-world utility as Rebel Satoshi’s governance and membership token. Furthermore, the token raised over $2.5 million during the presale phase and is currently selling for $0.025 on the Uniswap DEX. Moreover, $RBLZ holders expect continued rallies in the forthcoming weeks, as the token’s current price marks a noteworthy 150% increase from the starting $0.010. Meanwhile, Rebel Satoshi’s second token, $RECQ, is at Stage 2 of the presale, available for only $0.0044. Thus, Stage 2 investors can expect 25% gains as early as the next presale stage and a remarkable 184% gain when $RECQ reaches its launch price of $0.0125. $RECQ serves as Rebel Satoshi ’s base currency for everyday transactions such as purchases, rewards, and fees. Furthermore, the powerful $RECQ token also provides access to Rebel Satoshi’s advanced buyback program and the numerous play-to-earn games in the fun-filled Rebel Satoshi Arcade. Make sure to chip in today, as $RECQ is set to continue its upward trend over the next crypto bull run! Ethena Emerges as One of the Top Altcoins to Buy in 2024 Ethena bulls suggest ENA as one of the top altcoins to buy now based on its excellent performance since its launch on April 2, 2024. While ENA recorded its all-time high of $1.51 on April 11, experts believe that Ethena could surpass the $1.70 price mark during the next crypto bull run. ENA traded at around $0.90 during the second half of May, meaning Ethena could increase by a remarkable 88.88%. Moreover, analysts point to Ethena’s various strategic partnerships as another important factor behind this bullish ENA price forecast. For example, Infinex announced its integration with Ethena Labs via an X post on May 28. However, Ethena bears warn that ENA’s failure to consolidate above the $1 threshold could announce the beginning of a lengthy downward trend. In the worst-case scenario, ENA could decrease by the year's close toward the $0.50 mark. Optimism Crypto Price Prediction: Could OP Surge To $3.60? Optimism enthusiasts believe that the next crypto bull run could help the OP token approach the $3.60 price level. OP traded around the $2.50 range during the final week of May, meaning OP investors could receive more than 44% gains. This bullish OP crypto price prediction is based on several factors, such as Optimism’s reputation as one of the leading L-2 scaling solutions. On the other hand, some experts have evaluated OP as a risky investment for the following term, as several Optimism whales have started to dump their OP holdings. Thus, Optimism bears claim that holders should expect corrections below the $2.20 range amid Optimism’s imminent price movements. Top market experts single out ONDO, ENA, OP, and $RECQ as the most rewarding options for the next crypto bull run, so don’t hesitate to join Rebel Satoshi’s mighty army of Recusants! For the latest updates and more information, be sure to visit the official Rebel Satoshi Website or contact Rebel Red via Telegram Contact Details Rebel Satoshi Rebel Red marketing@rebelsatoshi.com

June 03, 2024 02:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Image
Article thumbnail News Release

Comcast Partners with Jaime Mendez News to Serve Hispanic Community in Seattle

Comcast Pacific Northwest

Comcast today announced a partnership with Se Habla Media to support and expand its Jaime Mendez News Spanish-language newscast to the more than 60,000 members of the Hispanic community in Seattle. The partnership includes a grant to support operations and technology along with a regular spot on Comcast’s Xfinity TV Channel 79 to air its broadcasts. “When Sinclair Broadcasting group let go of its Univison affiliate at the end of 2023, the only local Spanish newscast on TV in our area also disappeared,” said Diana Oliveros, co-founder of Se Habla Media. “This sudden lack of a newscast posed yet another barrier to important information for many Hispanics. So, we decided to create our own local media outlet.” Se Habla Media was born out of Oliveros’ and Jaime Mendez’s desire to fill the void left by the disappearance of Univision. The two decided that creating their own media outlet was the best and likely only solution to avoid the disappearance of local Spanish-language news. They also realized that they didn’t have time to waste. In roughly three months they created Se Habla Media and launched on Jan. 1, 2024. It was a labor of love in more ways than one—Oliveros and Mendez are married and live in the home that has also become their studio. "Our collaboration with Jaime and Diana aligns seamlessly with Comcast's mission to support our communities, advance digital equity, and help small businesses succeed," said Rodrigo Lopez, Senior Vice President of Comcast Pacific Northwest Region. "By supporting Se Habla Media, a news outlet created by Latinos for Latinos, we are helping to keep our Spanish-language community informed about local events and raise awareness of important local issues." Before the partnership with Comcast, Jaime Mendez News, the newscast produced by Se Habla Media, was limited to online broadcasts. Even without a lot of marketing or a TV cable channel, it was able to build a critical mass of more than 120,000 followers. Additionally, the outlet has reached more than a million viewers across Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Most of the Se Habla Media’s online audience lives in the Puget Sound area, but it also has followers in Central and Eastern Washington, California and Mexico. The addition of a TV cable channel and the support of Comcast will help expand its reach and audience. “There is a huge technological gap for some members of the Hispanic community,” said Oliveros. “It is often taken for granted that anyone has access to internet connection and social media, but the truth is that TV is still an important, and sometimes the only source of information for some people. These are the people that tend to be some of the most vulnerable.” Mendez was the news anchor for the now closed Seattle Univision broadcast. He has been a pioneer in Hispanic media for the last 25 years. Oliveros is a career diplomat specializing in community outreach and local economic development. During her six years in Seattle, she acted as Consul for Community Outreach at the Consulate of Mexico in Seattle, leading the efforts of collaborating with the Mexican migrant community in Washington and Alaska, to provide health, education and financial literacy programs. Her position created a deeper and better understanding of the needs and culture of the local and regional Spanish speaking community. The financial support from Comcast will also aid in paying for freelance reporters to develop news stories. In the future, Mendez wants to provide more daily news and add a sports show with specialized segments. “We feel glad to see that other stakeholders, like Comcast, see the value of what we are doing and commit to strengthen projects like ours,” said Mendez. “The partnership with Comcast helps us bring reliable information to more people and gives us the exposure we need to raise awareness about the need in the Hispanic community.” Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Contact Details Comcast Andy Colley andy_colley@comcast.com Company Website https://washington.comcast.com/

June 03, 2024 08:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

1 ... 910111213 ... 246