Category: Blog

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Day 1: The Holidays According to Kristin

by KristinLeave a Comment on Day 1: The Holidays According to Kristin

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Hey everyone!

So my classes are finally settling down and I really wanted to concentrate more on original content. What better way than to include exciting holiday information?! For the next month, I’ll list some of my favorite gift ideas and some of my favorite holiday moments and traditions over the years.

My hope is that my readers will comment their thoughts, feelings, and even some of their favorite holiday moments and traditions. Talk to me! I want to know what the holidays are like for you and your family. Even if they’re rough this year. As some of you might know, my father passed away unexpectedly last year, so the holidays could be bitter sweet at times. So even if you just need to vent or feel like someone understands what you might be going through, you can count on me.

With that being said, I want to start out by sharing three of my favorite holiday songs right now. My dad was one of those people who would listen to Christmas music NON-STOP after Halloween, and it seriously drove me nuts! I just never understood how many times he could hear ‘Frosty the Snowman’ or ‘Winter Wonderland’ without wanting to quit Christmas altogether. Thankfully, one of my favorite artists right now, Pentatonix, has two Christmas albums that have been released over the last two years and they’re full of updated, fresh holiday music. Their talent is off the scales and they can really put you in that holiday spirit.

 

 

 

Here are the links to their Christmas albums on iTunes. Check them out, and let me know if you have any favorites! You can also find the top two albums below on Vinyl, which would be an amazing Christmas gift!

Pentatonix: That’s Christmas to Me

Pentatonix: A Pentatonix Christmas

Pentatonix: PTXmas (Deluxe Edition)

 

You can also visit their official pages here:

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website | Youtube | Spotify

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More Love. Less Hate. #PrayforOrlando #PrayforHumanity

by KristinLeave a Comment on More Love. Less Hate. #PrayforOrlando #PrayforHumanity

pray_for_o1[1]I’ve refrained from mentioning anything on social media after this past weekend because I needed some time to gather my thoughts before doing so.  Even still, it’s hard to put my feelings into words…I’ve already rewritten this post three times.

Let me start by posting here what a good friend of mine, who happens to be gay, posted on Facebook this morning.  I could not have said it better myself:

“To even try and share my feelings on this past weekend tears me apart. I am beyond horrified with the events that have taken place in Orlando. How the hell did we get here? When did it become the norm to allow your beliefs to change the lives of others? I am appalled at the comments like “Finally someone is shooting perverts instead of innocent people”. How did we become a country that allows ourselves to persecute others!? I truly don’t give a shit that this guy was Muslim. …I care that he felt it was ok to murder innocent people because of who they love! Hatred, bigotry, intolerance…THESE ARE THE ISSUES!! The man who I quoted above is a WHITE AMERICAN! Given the right tools- he is just as capable of committing a horrendous hate crime! So maybe ISIS would like to take credit for this mass shooting. But in the comments that A LOT of Americans have been making- they too are taking some sort of credit. Anyone who is not speaking out against this horrible crime is taking credit. How? Because it is them who opens the door for this kind of hatred to take over. Whether you have an issue with Muslims, LGBT people, Jews, Immigrants, people on welfare, etc.- spreading hate and disgust fuels the fire in people to rationalize their own hate. When it is normal for a person to persecute another based on differences- it becomes normal for these radical few to plan these acts of pure violence. There will always be people and things we have to be careful of… but this shit has got to stop!! It has become all too common for people to lose their lives over BULLSHIT!
I see story after story about all of the amazing people who have helped one way or another for these victims from the Pulse shooting. And I am trying my hardest to focus on those… because in my heart- I want to believe that is what the majority of our country is made of! A country full of loving, decent, kind human beings who truly want what’s best for our citizens as a whole… no matter your race, sexuality, religion, or beliefs. But in order to change the world- we have to change! We have to spread more love and acceptance to EVERYONE! Instead of trying to build walls- lets shatter them! Let us prove that this hatred and persecution will not bring us down… it will build us up! It will allow us to come together and make a stand. WE DESERVE BETTER, AMERICA!! Our children deserve better!! As far as our ancestors have brought us in this world… we are shitting on their graves with how we not only treat each other- but our planet as a whole. Be good to one another… love and accept all! That alone will make our world a better place!”

 

Now let me say that I am a straight woman who fully supports the LGBT community. I also support the security used at venues in order to keep our favorite musicians safe from harm. The past few years have been riddled with school shootings, movie theater shootings, mall shootings, concert shootings, club shootings, etc.  Keyword being “shootings.”  Orlando will no longer be known solely as the happiest place on Earth because of Disney World…it will be known as the city where the worst mass shooting in U.S. history occurred. It will be known as the place where a deranged fan walked in heavily armed and shot an incredibly talented musician, Christina Grimmie, as she signed autographs for fans after her set.

Our “Land of the Free” is no longer free.  Our kids are no longer completely safe wherever they go. We live in a country where hardworking people pay $200 a month for insurance that barely covers anything anymore.  Pharmaceutical companies no longer want to cover medications regardless of whether or not they’re prescribed. My father died a month after discovering he had liver cancer because the doctors are so busy expanding their practices to include Botox and Cool Sculpting rather than  detecting cancer in their current patients. Those who are not working, don’t have the money to afford private insurance.  Therein lies the issue of undiagnosed mental disorders.  Those with psychological issues are not being treated properly or in a timely manner.  Pair that with the ease of attaining assault weapons and firearms and you have a recipe for disaster. Why is it so difficult to attain health insurance, but it’s so easy for someone on the FBI watch list for the past 2 years to purchase an assault weapon?? Why is so easy for ANYONE to purchase a gun, period??

I spent all of Sunday in a state of disbelief. Thinking about the 100+ families that were waiting to hear if their child or sibling were one of the casualties, injured or survivors of the horrific shooting at Pulse nightclub. Imagining what those inside of the club experienced when they heard shots being fired. Wondering how this group of people could be targeted simply because of who they love. We’re talking LOVE here. They weren’t gathering to conspire against anyone.  They were celebrating being proud of who they are as HUMAN BEINGS.

It’s a scary world we live in at the moment. Kids are being brought up in a world where you don’t need to work hard, you just need to participate. They’re being ostracized for being different rather than being taught to embrace their uniqueness. They’re abusing the luxury of being able to communicate with their favorite actors/musicians/athletes on social media and using it to hurt them instead. Everything these days is fueled by hatred and ignorance.  You don’t have to understand why a person is gay, you just have to accept that they are.  It doesn’t make them a bad person, it makes YOU a bad person for thinking they deserve to be punished because of who they love.

I could go on and on about this issue for days, but I’ll end it here. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Christina Grimmie, and also to the numerous families of the victims at Pulse nightclub. Most of all…RIP to all of the lives lost this weekend.  Let us remain hopeful that gun laws will be amended, that healthcare will improve and be made more affordable so that those who do suffer from metal disorders can seek the help they need in order to help prevent things like this from continuing to happen.

As my friend said so perfectly…”We deserve better, America! Our children deserve better!”

 

***If you’re not in the Orlando area and are unable to donate blood, please visit the following link set up to help support the families of the victims

https://www.gofundme.com/PulseVictimsFund

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@Thisfunktional’s 2016 WALK TO END LUPUS Team Fundraiser

by KristinLeave a Comment on @Thisfunktional’s 2016 WALK TO END LUPUS Team Fundraiser
Click for Thisfunktional Team Page

Written by Jesus Figueroa

It’s that time of year again to start the fundraising for the 2016 Walk to End Lupus.

I just created Thisfunktional’s team page and after reading up a bit and seeing everything that the Lupus Foundation of America does Team Thisfunktional will be having a goal of becoming a Trailblazer to End Lupus.

To become a Trailblazer means the team is dedicated to trying to raise $1,000 or more to help research the cause of and hopefully prevention or treatment of Lupus.

This will be the third year Thisfunktional is doing the Walk to End Lupus and through the years I’ve met some amazing people who donate and fundraise year-after-year to help family members, friends or co-workers who live with Lupus and some who have had family members, friends or workers who have passed away because of this mysterious autoimmune disease.

For me, my twin brother was diagnosed and I have seen how Lupus affects a person diagnosed with Lupus. The person may not always show symptoms, but when Lupus flares up it can cause an energetic, strong person to be bedridden, tired or in pain from doing common every day activities which were once easy to do.

The biggest fear for someone living with Lupus and the family members and friends is that Lupus can lead to organ failure and death.

Lupus is a mysterious disease because there still hasn’t been any explanation or cause to how people get it and there hasn’t been any medication found that can cure or prevent it.

Many with Lupus take medication which help reduce the affects of flare ups and after 50 years of research a second treatment option has be introduced, but still there’s very little known of the disease.

Please help spreading the word about the dangers of Lupus or by donating, joining the team or sharing the team page: support.lupus.org/goto/ThisfunktionalTeam.

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Happy New Year!

by KristinLeave a Comment on Happy New Year!

 

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I don’t think I have ever looked forward to a new year as I am right now.  Truly.  2015 has been pretty rough for my family, and I’m looking forward to starting fresh in 2016!

As some may know, I lost my first furry child (my beautiful Golden Retriever, Kayla) in March after 12 wonderful years.  She was the best pet anyone could ever ask for.  Sadly, two months later, my father passed away from cancer (which no one knew he had).

Something else happened in 2015 that I’m looking forward to moving on from.  Since I was 15 years old, I’ve had feelings for a certain person who I believed was a friend.  Sadly, a few years ago that person broke my heart to a million pieces.  I was raised to be a forgiving person, so I forgave them and went back to being friends.  Being there for them when they needed someone to boost their ego, making plans with them for me to visit and being pushed to the side with a million excuses when I was there, and unintentionally postponing my life because a long time ago, they asked me to wait for them.  This person got married this year and is now a father.  Now, in all honesty…I am happy for the life he’s created for himself and his new family, and I’ve been open to meeting someone new for a while now, but I can’t lie and say my heart doesn’t hurt to see it all.  In all these years, I maintained the feeling of wanting to remain friends, but I think I finally realized that we might not have ever truly been friends.  As much as that hurts to say…in order to start 2016 off right, it’s time to leave the heartache in the past.  I’m not getting any younger!  🙂

Instead of creating unrealistic resolutions for the new year, I’m making simple promises to myself.  To learn how to love myself again after some have torn me down (corny, I know), to create and maintain a healthy lifestyle for myself and my family, to focus on finishing school and to appreciate the people in my life more than I have in the past.  Losing people I love in the past 3 years has taught me to stop worrying so much and to just try to enjoy life.

So, I hope everyone has a great start to 2016, and make sure to check back in often!  I hope to keep up with my site and to create more original posts!

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Free Calls to Mobile Phones in Six Latin American Countries Added to International Plan

by KristinLeave a Comment on Free Calls to Mobile Phones in Six Latin American Countries Added to International Plan

Free Calls to Mobile Phones in Six Latin American Countries Added to International Plan

Javier Garcia, Vice President and General Manager of Multicultural Services, Comcast Cable

 

When family and friends live abroad, keeping in touch can sometimes get expensive. Calling card costs and cell phone charges can add up quickly, so we’re always looking for ways to add value to our Xfinity Voice services.

Today we are improving one of our international long distance calling plans — Carefree Minutes Latin America 300 — by adding the ability to make calls to mobile phones in six countries: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, and Venezuela. There are about 6 million Hispanic households in our service area, and we serve large Hispanic markets including Albuquerque, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Miami, Philadelphia, Sacramento, and San Francisco. Plus, we know research shows Hispanics over-index on mobile phone usage.

In addition to these new calling destinations, customers who have our Carefree Minutes Latin America 300 plan can already make five hours of calls a month to landlines in 17 Latin American countries, including: Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

The plan is just $9.95 more a month, and it is also included at no extra cost in select Xfinity Latino Triple Play packages.

Another upgrade to the plan includes discounted per-minute rates if customers go over the 300 minutes included. (Previously, the overage per-minute rate was at retail price.)

Our Xfinity Voice team will continue to look for ways to deliver value. We want to help connect our customers to whom and what they love in more ways than ever, for less money.

____________________________________________________


Se agregan llamadas gratis a teléfonos celulares en seis países latinoamericanos al plan internacional

Javier García, Vicepresidente y Director General de Servicios Multiculturales, Comcast Cable

Cuando la familia y los amigos viven en el extranjero, mantenerse en contacto a veces puede volverse costoso. El precio de las tarjetas telefónicas y los gastos de los teléfonos celulares terminan sumando rápidamente, por eso nosotros siempre buscamos maneras de agregar valor a nuestros servicios de Xfinity Voice.

Hoy, para mejorar uno de nuestros planes internacionales de llamadas de larga distancia —Carefree Minutes Latin America 300—, hemos añadido la posibilidad de realizar llamadas a teléfonos celulares en seis países: Brasil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, República Dominicana y Venezuela. Nuestra área de servicio cubre aproximadamente seis millones de hogares de familias hispanas, y nuestros servicios llegan a mercados hispanos grandes entre los que se incluyen Albuquerque, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Miami, Filadelfia, Sacramento y San Francisco. Además, estamos al tanto de las investigaciones que muestran que los hispanos registran un índice muy elevado en el uso de telefonía móvil.

Además de estos nuevos destinos telefónicos, los clientes adheridos a nuestro plan Carefree Minutes Latin America 300 ya cuentan con cinco horas mensuales de llamadas a teléfonos fijos a diecisiete países latinoamericanos, entre los que se incluyen Argentina, Brasil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, República Dominicana, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panamá, Paraguay, Perú, Uruguay y Venezuela.

El plan cuesta sólo $9.95 más por mes, y también está incluido sin ningún costo adicional en los paquetes exclusivos de Xfinity Latino Triple Play.

Otra mejora es que hemos agregado descuentos en el precio por minuto cuando los clientes superan los 300 minutos que vienen incluidos en el plan (anteriormente, el costo total por minuto estaba a precio de venta al público).

Nuestro equipo de Xfinity Voice seguirá buscando modos de entregar valor. Queremos ayudar a que nuestros clientes se mantengan conectados con las personas y las cosas que aman de la mayor cantidad de maneras posibles, por menos dinero.

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“MINIONS” TAKE MIAMI AT HOMESTEAD-MIAMI SPEEDWAY

by KristinLeave a Comment on “MINIONS” TAKE MIAMI AT HOMESTEAD-MIAMI SPEEDWAY

“MINIONS” TAKE MIAMI AT HOMESTEAD-MIAMI SPEEDWAY
DURING FORD CHAMPIONSHIP WEEKEND
Hoda Kotb to be Grand Marshal at Ford EcoBoost 400

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MIAMI – Minion Mayhem is coming to Miami!  The lovable stars of the Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment summer blockbuster hit, Minions, will be at the Ford Championship Weekend from November 20-22, it was announced today by Homestead-Miami Speedway.  The three Minions – Kevin, Stuart and Bob — will be a fixture throughout Homestead-Miami Speedway, making appearances with fans and participating in the Ford EcoBoost 400 pre-race ceremonies on Sunday, November 22.   Minions will be released November 24 on Digital HD and Blu-ray/DVD on December 8.

NBC News’ Anchor and “Today” Show co-host Hoda Kotb will serve as Grand Marshal at the Ford EcoBoost 400.  Ms. Kotb, the popular co-host of NBC’s “Today” fourth hour with Kathie Lee Gifford, is also a “Dateline NBC” correspondent and New York Times Bestselling author and has been at NBC since 1998.  She will give the command for drivers to start their engines prior to the Sprint Cup Series championship race on Sunday, November 22.

“We are extremely excited to have the Minions and Hoda Kotb join us for Ford Championship Weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway in November,” Homestead-Miami Speedway President Matthew Becherer said. “The Minions are characters beloved by both adults and kids and we think our fans are going to enjoy seeing them around the venue throughout our NASCAR weekend. Hoda is a household name in national news, and we are thrilled to have her join us for what is going to be an electrifying Ford EcoBoost 400.”

In addition, the Minions will introduce the “Minionwagon”, a one-of-a-kind Ford Transit Connect Wagon that will be making appearances on a road trip at select locations, including as the Grand Marshal car for Ford Championship Weekend and a stop at Universal Orlando® Resort, on their way to the Today Show in New York City.  The Minions will also be the entitlement sponsor of the “Minions Kids Zone” in the Homestead-Miami Speedway display area, making an appearance on November 22.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to bring the Minions to the Ford Championship Weekend for the culmination of the NASCAR season,” said John Morici, Managing Director, US & Canada, Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. “NASCAR is a hugely popular and important family entertainment brand.  This event at the Homestead-Miami Speedway is a great showcase for Minions, one of the most highly anticipated home entertainment releases of the year.”

The breakout stars the world fell in love with in the unprecedented worldwide blockbusters Despicable Me and Despicable Me 2 headline their own movie for the first time in Minions.  After their latest explosive mistake leaves them without an evil leader, the Minions fall into a deep depression.  With the tribe on the brink of collapse, three unlikely heroes – Kevin, Stuart, and Bob—embark on a journey to find a new big boss.  When their quest leads them to their next potential master, Scarlet Overkill (Academy Award® winner Sandra Bullock), our three heroes must face their biggest challenge yet: saving all of Minionkind…from annihilation. Minions also features the voice talents of Jon Hamm, Michael Keaton and Allison Janney.

The 2015 Ford Championship Weekend will be held on November 20-22 at Homestead-Miami Speedway, and will consist of the Sprint Cup Series, XFINITY Series and Camping World Truck Series finales. Tickets are available for the Ford EcoBoost 200 on Friday, November 20, and Ford EcoBoost 300 on Saturday, November 21, and can be purchased by calling (305) 230-5255 or visiting www.homesteadmiamispeedway.com. Tickets for the Ford EcoBoost 400 are officially sold out.

 

About Homestead-Miami Speedway

The Speedway has been open since 1995 following an initiative to spur economic recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2015, the 650-acre facility is active nearly 300 days per year, and features a 1.5-mile oval and 2.21-mile road course. The track generates more than $301 million annually for the region. NASCAR has crowned its champions in all three of its premier series at Homestead-Miami Speedway for 13 straight years. Champions crowned at Homestead-Miami Speedway last year consisted of Kevin Harvick (Sprint Cup Series), Chase Elliott (XFINITY Series) and Matt Crafton (Camping World Truck Series). The 2015 Ford Championship Weekend will be held November 20-22.

 

About Universal Pictures Home Entertainment

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE) is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

 

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Michigan, manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 197,000 employees and 67 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

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Veterans Day 2015

by Kristin2 Comments on Veterans Day 2015

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Here’s to all those who were brave enough to do something most of us were not.  I am the granddaughter of a World War II veteran (RIP) and the daughter of a Vietnam veteran (RIP), and I couldn’t be more proud.

I remember going out with my dad, and he never hesitated to thank others who served.  He always took the time to stop, thank the stranger and shake their hand.  Most of the time they’d share stories, and while some might think this was an inconvenience for me being there with him…I found it heart warming.  How bravery could bring strangers together with a simple ‘Thank You.’  It’s more than most people do on a regular day.

So go out and thank a veteran for the freedom you get to enjoy every day, and keep those we’ve lost in your heart today and always.

We miss you Dad…

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ManCrates.com asks Mike ‘the Movie Guy,’ “What Would You Put in Your Zombie Survival Crate?!”

by KristinLeave a Comment on ManCrates.com asks Mike ‘the Movie Guy,’ “What Would You Put in Your Zombie Survival Crate?!”
Zombie
ONE PRETTY ZOMBIE

Now…before I even get started on what I’d put in my zombie crate – some of ya’ll are probably wondering…

“Who the hell are ManCrates.com Mike?!”

Well…they’re this super, sick company that ships awesome gifts to men – but wait – these aren’t just gifts in a UPS box. These gifts arrive in a WOODEN CRATE! You have to use a freaking CROW BAR to open them!! How sweet is that?! You have to check out their site. It’s too cool for school.

So now…some of ya’ll are probably wondering…

“How did they find you Mike?!”

Well…from my podcasts. Yep. My FEAR THE WALKING DEAD and THE WALKING DEAD podcasts. Have you heard them yet?! Check them out when you can – I don’t do them by myself – I’ve got a crew! 🙂 We just love talking these shows.

OK! OK! Enough of that – lets talk about my crate. What would “I” put in my Man Crate Zombie Survival Crate.

  1. Rambo Knife
  2. Katana Sword – like Michonne in The Walking Dead
  3. First Aid Kit
  4. A Survival Slingshot
  5. Cans of Tuna and other non-perishable canned food.
  6. Duct Tape – I love this stuff!
  7. Hatchet
  8. Fishing Gear
  9. Firestarter Kit
  10. M16 with ammo

Well…I think that’s it. I think it’s a pretty sweet list. Don’t you? What would YOU put in your zombie survival crate?!

Also, don’t forget to check out ManCrates.com – they have some sweet gifts for men (and maybe women) – – including…YES…several zombie survivor kits!

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‘Hank Trujillo Memorial Free PX’ Donation Drive

by KristinLeave a Comment on ‘Hank Trujillo Memorial Free PX’ Donation Drive

OME

Hey everyone!

As you may, or may not, know…my dad, Hank Trujillo, passed away unexpectedly on May 20, 2015.  He was a Vietnam veteran, who was actively involved with the Transport Workers Union Veterans Committee.  This particular committee dedicated a lot of their time traveling to help all military members, Veterans and their families.

One organization that was dear to my dad’s heart was Operation Military Embrace.  Operation Military Embrace is a non-profit military support organization that provides new items to severely wounded soldiers and their families via donations.  This drive takes place in December, right before the holidays.  He, and the rest of the committee (his second family) would travel to San Antonio, Texas to help out with the donations and to visit these families.

We were honored to learn that Operation Free PX was renamed in my dad’s honor beginning this year.  It is now known as ‘Hank Trujillo Memorial Free PX.’  As I mentioned, this donation drive was very dear to my dad’s heart, and I’d like to try and get them some extra donations this year.

Please feel free to share this post wherever you can, and tell your friends and family about it.  You can visit the links below for more information regarding items that are needed.

TWU Local 568 ‘ Hank Trujillo Memorial Free PX’ Donation Drive

Operation Military Embrace

For new donated items, please see your Veterans Committee Representative (you can contact me via email for this information) for shipment or send to the TWU ATD office at:

TWU ATD
1791 Hurstview Drive
Hurst, TX 76054-3430

Monetary donations can be donated online by going to the OME website above through their PayPal portal.

Checks can be made payable to OME and sent to:

Operation Military Embrace
P.O. Box 149
Hockley, Texas 77447-0149

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this!  If you do happen to make a donation to the organization (and I hope you do), please make sure to include that your donation is in memory of Hank Trujillo.

– Kristin

Blog, TV

COMCAST’S XFINITY FREE VIEW LATINO, THE LARGEST LATINO ON DEMAND EVENT EVER, RETURNS WITH MORE CONTENT THAN EVER BEFORE

by KristinLeave a Comment on COMCAST’S XFINITY FREE VIEW LATINO, THE LARGEST LATINO ON DEMAND EVENT EVER, RETURNS WITH MORE CONTENT THAN EVER BEFORE

COMCAST’S XFINITY FREE VIEW LATINO, THE LARGEST LATINO ON DEMAND EVENT EVER, RETURNS WITH MORE CONTENT THAN EVER BEFORE

Free View 2015 Image

Xfinity TV Customers Get Two Weeks of Free Access to More than 3,500 Hours of Latino On Demand Programming from September 21 to October 4

Third Annual Event Includes More Content Available Across Platforms Than Ever Before, Ability to Navigate Content in English or Spanish

Comcast today announced the return of Xfinity Free View Latino, a two week all-access pass to discover and enjoy thousands of hours of the best Latino entertainment available in the U.S. for free on Xfinity On Demand. Xfinity Free View Latino will take place from September 21 through October 4 and will be available to all Xfinity TV customers across platforms, on Xfinity On Demand, Xfinity.com/Latino and on the Xfinity TV Go app.

This year, with more than 3,500 hours and more than 5,000 On Demand content choices in Spanish and English from premium, cable and broadcast networks, Xfinity TV customers will have access to the biggest selection of entertainment options yet.

This year’s programming highlights include:

  • Early access to the premieres of new series before they air live, including the first three episodes of Telemundo’s Celia, based on the Hispanic music icon Celia Cruz, the special premiere episode of Los Milagros de Jesus (MundoMax), Magnifica 70 (HBO Latino), the first episode of Fluffy Breaks Even, a new reality series from Fuse starring comedian Gabriel Iglesias, as well as Nina’s World (Sprout) in Spanish. And, Xfinity customers will have the chance to view the upcoming season finale of Allá Te Espero (RCN Nuestra) before it airs on Nuestra Tele.
  • Complete series such as NBC UNIVERSO’s celeb-reality hit, Larrymania, as well as the cult favorite From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series from El Rey, based on the movie by Robert Rodriguez.
  • Now available to Xfinity TV customers, ENCORE ESPAÑOL ON DEMAND features a new U.S. Spanish Language film premiere every month including the Mexican blockbuster hit Nosotros Los Nobles, as well as Oscar-winner Frida and Oscar-nominated Biutiful. With more than 300 movies available in total, the event will also feature Salvando al Soldado Perez from Cinelatino, La Vida Precoz y Breve de Sabina Rivas from Viendomovies and Hollywood hits in Spanish from Cine Sony such as Just Go With It and The Vow.
  • Full series of popular telenovelas such as MundoMax’s La Guerrera and Telemundo’s El Señor de los Cielos 3, La Reina del Sur & El Clón from Streampix, among others. 

“Xfinity is the best place to consume your favorite Spanish or English language entertainment on demand across devices, at home or on the go. With Xfinity Free View Latino, our customers have the opportunity to enjoy the most anticipated series before they air on TV and also discover the great selection of on demand programming,” said Javier Garcia, Vice President and General Manager, Multicultural Services for Comcast Cable.  “In addition, with the recent announcement of the X1 Spanish Guide, Spanish-speaking X1 customers will have the option to discover all the great Free View Latino content in the language of their choice.”

For more details on Xfinity Free View Latino including the full programming list, please visit Xfinity.com/Latino to sort through the thousands of hours of content available and check the Xfinity Latino Entertainment Channel daily for recommendations on what to watch, or join the conversation on www.facebook.com/XfinityLatino and twitter.com/XfinityLatino using hashtag #FreeViewLatino. Content availability may vary across platforms. For more information on the Xfinity Latino Entertainment channel, Multilatino packages and Xfinity On Demand, please visit www.comcast.com/Espanol. Comcast has had a longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion since its founding nearly 50 years ago and focuses its efforts in five key areas: diversity in governance, attracting and retaining a multicultural workforce, developing a diverse supplier base, offering a wide selection of multicultural programming, and community investment in national, regional and local diverse organizations. For more background on diversity and inclusion at Comcast please visit www.comcast.com/diversity.

Blog, Comedy

Comedian @JeffDye at the @PBImprov – 9/19/15

by Kristin1 Comment on Comedian @JeffDye at the @PBImprov – 9/19/15

IMG_9577I had the privilege of catching one of Jeff Dye’s shows at the Palm Beach Improv this weekend, and it did not disappoint!

Several months ago, I decided to watch a new show called ‘I Can Do That’ OnDemand and was hooked.  The show normally airs on NBC, and has just been renewed for a second season.  You can find more information about the show HERE.  It was this particular show that introduced me to my new favorite comedian, Jeff Dye.  Some of you might’ve seen him on shows like Girl Code and Money from Strangers on MTV, but, as mentioned in a previous post…I stopped watching MTV when they stopped playing music lol.  Jeff was also a finalist on Last Comic Standing (also on NBC).

When I heard Jeff would be doing some shows in Florida, I had to be there!  So I dragged my brother and my best friend with me and we drove up to West Palm Beach from Miami for the first of two shows he’d be headlining on Saturday.  Now, that was my first mistake lol.  Choosing to go to the early show rather than the later one!  The early show looked like a Century Village field trip!  Not that that’s a problem, BUT they didn’t seem to get a lot of the jokes.

The venue was great and so were the opening comedians, Jordan Garnett and Ramon Garcia (both locals).  As Ramon was making everyone cry of laughter, I noticed Jeff creeping behind us sitting at a table by himself.  Despite my best friend telling me to go talk to him, I didn’t.  I mean, I do think he’s awesome, but I’m sure he wanted time alone, right??  🙂

Anyway, Jeff went up on stage and made us laugh the entire time.  His jokes were on point, and even his banter with the drunk old lady in front of us was hilarious.  The crowd was slightly awkward as everyone looked around wondering what a NuvaRing was, but I don’t even care because I got it and thought he was great!  What makes him even more amazing is the fact that he took time out of his show to thank the wait staff at the venue.

When the show was over, my 31 year old self got nervous, hoping we’d be able to meet him.  Unfortunately, Jeff went right into the green room and the old folks all left right away!  My brother went over and asked someone who worked at the Improv if Jeff would be coming out to meet people, and the guy went to check.  He went to the green room and quickly returned with Jeff.  He came over and spoke to us for about 5 minutes, recognized me from Instagram (not sure if that’s a good thing haha), took pictures with my best friend and I, thanked us for coming and went back into the green room.

Needless to say, my night had been made!  It sucks to have high expectations for how someone would be in person without cameras on them and have them be douchebags, but Jeff exceeded my expectations.  He was so nice, and even though he didn’t have to come out to meet us, he did and was awesome.  Definitely gained him two new fans in my brother and best friend.

So, if you’re looking to have some laughs, please check him out on NBC’s ‘I Can Do That’, you can find hilarious interviews with him on YouTube, and he has a comedy album out on iTunes called,’ Welcome to my Brain.’  As if that weren’t enough, he just finished filming a new show on NBC (yes, he might be the new NBC poster child) called ‘Better Late Than Never’ which will also star Terry Bradshaw, William Shatner, Henry Winkler and George Foreman.  With that lineup, we’re sure to have some laughs!  Now that I’ve fully endorsed my favorite comedian, do yourself a favor and look him up!

Here is his Official Site.

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Blog, TV

X1 En Español: Xfinity Customers Can Now Access First-Ever Spanish-Language TV Interface

by KristinLeave a Comment on X1 En Español: Xfinity Customers Can Now Access First-Ever Spanish-Language TV Interface

X1 En Español: Xfinity Customers Can Now Access First-Ever Spanish-Language TV Interface
By: Javier Garcia

Today the majority of U.S. Hispanics consider themselves bicultural– with 55 percent identifying as a mix of both Latino and American. This is impacting the types of entertainment they watch in the home and according to Horowitz Research, it’s more about cultural relevance of programming than language. However, Spanish is still the predominant spoken language in bicultural homes, as it remains a component of family culture long after English proficiency is gained.

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re making some changes to our next-generation X1 platform designed to offer bicultural Hispanics an immersive viewing experience centered on language choice and greater flexibility to discover and watch their favorite programming.

First and foremost, we’re thrilled to announce that the X1 interface is now available in both Spanish and English. This new experience lets our Latino customers find and discover their favorite programming in the language of their choice and helps bridge the content divide for millions of Spanish-speaking households within the Comcast service area.

And we’re not stopping there. When the interface is set to Spanish, our voice remote will soon be updated to recognize commands spoken in this language, so our Spanish-dominant customers can more easily navigate the guide and find programming. We’ve also added new features and filters within the guide, including one-touch access to turn on/off the SAP feed via the video toolbar, to help viewers more easily discover Spanish-language and SAP-enabled content available on Xfinity On Demand.

And just in time for the start of soccer season, we’ve significantly updated our X1 Sports app to track more soccer leagues and will soon add an “Extras” experience that allows soccer fans to follow the game and stay updated with all the latest in-depth stats and analysis right on the TV screen.

We are constantly innovating to build products and services that change the way people consume entertainment and communicate, and encourage our Latino customers to get in on the action today by accessing the programming of their choice, wherever and whenever they want, in whichever language they prefer.

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CLAUDIA SANDOVAL CROWNED “MASTERCHEF” WINNER

by KristinLeave a Comment on CLAUDIA SANDOVAL CROWNED “MASTERCHEF” WINNER

California Events Manager Earns the Sixth Season Trophy,
A Cookbook Deal and the $250,000 Grand Prize

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Season Six of MASTERCHEF came to an unforgettable conclusion as host, executive producer and judge Gordon Ramsay, along with fellow judges Graham Elliot and Christina Tosi, named Claudia Sandoval the winner of FOX’s hit home cooking competition series. Sandoval, 31, is an events manager from La Mesa, CA. In addition to earning the MASTERCHEF title, Sandoval walked away with a cookbook deal and the $250,000 grand prize.

Watch/Share Sandoval’s reaction to winning MASTERCHEF:

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“To be crowned the first Latina MASTERCHEF is a dream come true,” said Sandoval. “This hard-earned title represents success over every struggle I’ve ever had as a first-generation American and a single mom. I can’t wait to move my daughter and myself out of our one-bedroom apartment and get started on sharing our family collection of authentic Mexican recipes in my cookbook! I hope you’re ready America, this Latina has BIG plans! Si Se Puede!”

“Claudia was a strong competitor from the beginning,” said Ramsay. “Her passion and unique dishes were what impressed us the most, and we look forward to seeing where her new culinary career will lead her.”

In the sensational season finale episode, Sandoval competed in two head-to-head competitions. First, she competed in the MASTERCHEF classic dishes challenge against Stephen Lee, which earned her a place in the finale. Then, Sandoval faced the intense culinary showdown with Derrick Peltz, a 28-year-old drummer from Fort Myers, FL. For the final challenge, Sandoval created an elevated three-course meal: an appetizer of Huatilacoche Tamale with Crispy Pork Chicharone, Cactus Salsa and Avocado Crème; a main course of Grilled Swordfish with Chayote, Chickpeas and Mexican Squash; and a Poached Pear with Key Lime Custard, Candied Lime and Pepita Cinnamon Brittle. In the end, it was Sandoval’s exquisite flavors and thoughtful dishes that won over the judges and earned her the MASTERCHEF title.

At the end of its sixth season, MASTERCHEF ranks as the season’s No. 1 cooking show on television, among Adults 18-49 and Total Viewers.

MASTERCHEF is once again giving talented home cooks the chance to prove they have what it takes to make their marks on the culinary world. Auditions for Season Seven of MASTERCHEF continue this fall, with open casting calls in Chicago and Louisville (Sept. 26); Jackson, MS, and New York City (Oct. 3); and Los Angeles (Oct. 10). Visit masterchefcasting.com to pre-register and for the most up-to-date audition information.

MASTERCHEF is produced by Endemol Shine North America and One Potato Two Potato, and is based on a format created by Franc Roddam and Endemol Shine. Elisabeth Murdoch, Eden Gaha, Robin Ashbrook, Gordon Ramsay, Adeline Ramage Rooney, Patricia Llewellyn and Ben Adler serve as executive producers. “Like” MASTERCHEF on Facebook at facebook.com/MasterChef. Follow the series on Twitter @MASTERCHEFonFOX and join the discussion with #Masterchef. Follow the judges on Twitter: Gordon Ramsay – @gordonramsay; Graham Elliot – @grahamelliot; Christina Tosi – @christinatosi.

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@DANIELJGILLIES T-Shirt Campaign for Action Against Hunger

by KristinLeave a Comment on @DANIELJGILLIES T-Shirt Campaign for Action Against Hunger

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Daniel Gillies (a/k/a Elijah Mikaelson on The Vampire Diaries and the Originals) has launched a T-Shirt campaign for Action Against Hunger that will run for the next 13 days (countdown is literally ticking!).

The limited edition ‘Fight World Hunger’ tee ships worldwide and is only $22.99!

100% of the proceeds go to the life changing work of Action Against Hunger.

So check out the site HERE for the campaign and get yours before they’re gone!

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Totally unrelated but…MIC DROP!

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Veteran’s Drive Renamed in Honor of Late TWUVC Chair

by KristinLeave a Comment on Veteran’s Drive Renamed in Honor of Late TWUVC Chair
Veteran’s Drive Renamed in Honor of Late TWUVC Chair

As some of you might already know…my dad passed away unexpectedly on May 20, 2015.  My dad was a proud Vietnam veteran, who dedicated his life to helping other veteran’s and their families.  He’d give anyone the clothes off of his own back.  My family was incredibly touched to see this article on the TWU (Transport Workers Union) website last night, so I thought I would share.

 

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The TWU Veterans Committee will once again support Operation Military Embrace’s annual “Operation Free PX” drive, which collects clothing, household items and funds for wounded warriors recovering at San Antonio Military Medical Center in Texas. Each year, TWU locals from around the country donate their time, resources and generous gifts to benefit nearly 21,000 soldiers and their families during the holiday season.

This year, the drive has a special meaning for TWU: it has been renamed in memory of beloved TWUVC Chairman Emeritus Hank Trujillo (pictured above left with ATD International Representative Jose Galarza and Secretary-Treasurer Alex Garcia). Over many years, Brother Hank worked tirelessly as a steward and chief steward for TWU Local 568. He was appointed Chairman of that local’s Veterans Committee and focused on members who were active and retired military. His dedication to military members was later recognized at the international level when he was asked to serve as Chairman of the International TWU Veterans Committee, a position he accepted with honor. Hank remained active with the committee even after his retirement from American Airlines. He touched the lives of so many of our members, and we cannot think of a more fitting tribute than to rename this charity drive in his honor.
For new donated items, please see your Veterans Committee representative for shipment or send them to the TWU ATD office at: 1791 Hurstview Drive, Hurst, TX 76054-3430. Monetary contributions can be made online or by mailing a check to the address listed there. We look forward to making this year’s drive the most successful yet, and honoring Brother Hank’s memory by helping our wounded warriors.
You can find more information on the link provided for Operation Military Embrace and on the TWU Official Site.  Please take the time to read up on this donation drive, and spread the word.  Thank you so much!!
Blog, Music

How I Lost 3 Hours of my Life…

by KristinLeave a Comment on How I Lost 3 Hours of my Life…

1Anyone remember when MTV used to actually be Music Television?? You know…where they actually showed music videos, and the majority of their other shows included some sort of music trivia? Gone are those days.

I tweeted out yesterday that I was going to avoid watching the VMA’s last night until MTV starts going back to their roots. Unfortunately though, my niece wanted to watch the show to try and catch a glimpse of 5 Seconds of Summer or One Direction (no such luck for her). Instead, I lost three hours of my life watching a show that was absolutely embarrassing.

It all started with Nicki Minaj basically having sex on stage with her dancers. Watching that performance with an eleven-year-old had me speechless….and not in a good way. Now, if you follow the music industry drama or have social media, you know that Nicki went on a Kanye 2.0 rant on Twitter recently about how people only get nominated for awards if they’re a certain “color” or body type. This sparked comments from Taylor Swift, who apparently took it as a personal attack on her. Now, Nicki Minaj has every right to say what she wants about this topic…anyone does…BUT, it’s not because she’s black and it’s not because of her body type. It’s because of performances like the one she put on last night. Music is no longer about music. It’s about how shocking your performance can be. That being said…I think Taylor Swift is a great artist, and she basically wins at life, but I don’t necessarily think she should be nominated for every single award she could possibly be nominated for. I mean, why in the world is she still winning country awards?? However, Taylor Swift doesn’t talk shit about any other artist, and she’s classy in general. Same with Beyonce. Artists like them focus on their own music and don’t sit there worrying about who’s winning what or who’s going to be the most obscene just to get people talking. Beyonce and Taylor Swift could sit on stage in their pajamas singing Christmas Carols and it would have people talking about how amazing they are. Same with Tori Kelly and The Weeknd last night. Make it about the MUSIC!!!

Bringing the shock factor brings me to another person at the VMA’s last night…Miley Cyrus. Can someone please explain to me WHY she hosted that show last night?? When my niece used to watch Hannah Montana and we’d see interviews with her, she always seemed like a sweet, wholesome girl. Now, don’t get me wrong, I know very well that it was a character she was playing, but even in recent years when she was dating Liam Hemsworth, she had her little edge but was still decent. I respected that she expressed her freedom of speech, but don’t do it just to get people to talk about you. Who admits that anyway?? MTV knew what they were doing when they asked her to host, and judging by her “nip slip,” questionable beef with Nicki Minaj and ridiculous outfits on stage…they got exactly what they wanted from her. Even in her little monologue to open the show she said she hasn’t done anything in her career to warrant hosting an awards show. Got that right!

I’m only 31 years old and I have always been in love with music. I used to really look forward to watching the VMA’s, and now I could honestly care less if they’re on or not. Music is about creativity and expressing yourself through this incredible medium that not all of us get a chance to experience. We experience it through the artist. I’m sorry, but as a lover of music, I would much rather watch a simple and powerful performance with an artist singing live than watch someone pushing a dancer’s face into their crotch and grinding like nobody’s business.

Oh…and for all of you tweeting out that you’ll be voting for Kanye West for President in 2020…please stop. Stop it forever. Kanye West is an amazing artist. There’s no denying that. It’s everything else about Kanye West that makes me want to bang my head on a desk. Again, stop complaining about who’s winning or losing an award. If you would’ve won, someone else would’ve lost! It’s how it goes. You don’t have to agree with it, and sometimes they get it wrong. In fact, a lot of the time they get it wrong! Just like giving him the platform to rant…rant…rant by giving him the video vanguard award last night (which was presented by Taylor Swift). Come on now, MTV. Talk about trying to up the ratings by promoting that the award would be presented by the one person he went up on stage to interrupt because she won over Beyonce. I’m just over it. I WANT MUSIC!!

**Side Note: This was literally me through the parts I watched of this show last night

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I don’t give three shits about who has beef with whom and who said what about whom. I want to hear music. I want to watch their videos. I want to see what they’ve been working on while those of us in the real world are busting our asses 9-5 at a job that gets us nowhere. You have this incredible platform to inspire others and to leave your mark on the industry. Wouldn’t you rather make your career about the actual music instead of having people say, “OMG, did you see how vulgar Nicki Minaj’s performance was at the VMA’s?” or “Wow…so Kanye went on another random rant last night and couldn’t seem to finish a single thought during his speech?” I would rather people talk about how they’re tired of my surprise face when I win an award (Taylor Swift).

Now that I just went on a Kanye 3.0 rant, I think I’ll get back to my job and try to pretend I didn’t watch the show last night. Especially because it lacked Justin Timberlake’s presence. Get it together MTV. Go back to your roots and play some damn music. What you SHOULD’VE done was have Motley Crue on the show to give a farewell performance to the industry. Bring back TRL and other similar shows. If YouTube and Vevo have taken your music video viewers, then please consider changing your name to RTV (Reality Television) because that’s exactly what the channel has become. I don’t care to watch a show about teenagers being pregnant. I truly used to love you, but we need to break up. It’s not me, it’s you.

Thank you and good night. LOL!!

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Enter to Win: The Vampire Diaries: The Complete 6th Season OR The Originals: The Complete 2nd Season

by KristinLeave a Comment on Enter to Win: The Vampire Diaries: The Complete 6th Season OR The Originals: The Complete 2nd Season
Enter to Win: The Vampire Diaries: The Complete 6th Season OR The Originals: The Complete 2nd Season

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Hey everyone!!

Head on over to Variety Radio Online (www.thevro.com) for information on how to enter their most recent contest!  You can win a Blu-Ray copy of the 6th season of The Vampire Diaries or a Blu-Ray copy of the 2nd season of The Originals!

Direct link to the contest HERE 

Also…bookmark the site and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr and YouTube to stay in the loop on upcoming news, TV reviews, contests, giveaways, interviews and so much more.

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FURIOUS 7 HITS THE STREETS WITH WAZE FOR GROUNDBREAKING PROMOTION

by KristinLeave a Comment on FURIOUS 7 HITS THE STREETS WITH WAZE FOR GROUNDBREAKING PROMOTION
FURIOUS 7 HITS THE STREETS WITH WAZE FOR GROUNDBREAKING PROMOTION

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FURIOUS 7  HITS THE STREETS WITH WAZE FOR GROUNDBREAKING PROMOTION TO LAUNCH HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASE 

 

Navigation App Gives Drivers the Fastest Route
To Locate Free Furious 7 Merchandise in Seven Cities

 

Universal City, California, August 25, 2015 –Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE) is leveraging Waze (http://www.waze.com), the real-time crowd sourced navigation app, to promote the home entertainment release of global blockbuster Furious 7. “Get your Furious 7 Fix Fast” is a first-of-its-kind promotion that will allow Waze users in seven cities to find Prizing Pit Stops giving away free Furious 7 merchandise. UPHE will release Furious 7 on Digital HD starting today and on Blu-ray™, DVD and On Demand on September 15.

From today through September 17, Waze will display scheduled messages announcing the release of Furious 7 on Blu-ray™, DVD and Digital HD in seven participating markets. On one day in each market, Waze users can also find directions to pop-up venues where street teams will be distributing free Furious 7 branded T-shirts, hats, license-plate frames, and a limited number of digital codes to download the film on Digital HD, among other items. Each Prizing Pit Stop will operate while supplies last for up to 90 minutes and then move on to two other spots throughout the day.

Prizing Pit Stops will take place on the following days:

Friday, Sept 11:  Portland & Dallas

Monday, Sept 14: San Francisco & Washington, D.C.

Tuesday, Sept 15: New York & Los Angeles

Thursday, Sept 17: Chicago

The promotion, which marks the first time Waze has partnered with a home entertainment distributor, will be supported by local cable and radio mentions in the participating markets and through Waze’s social media posts.

“We’re excited to team with Waze, one of the top navigation apps, to excite fans for the release of Furious 7,” said John Morici, UPHE Managing Director, US & Canada. “This is an innovative promotion that uniquely engages audiences with an app that has become indispensable to millions of commuters.”

About Furious 7

Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast across the globe in the Extended Edition of their most gravity-defying and emotional adventure yet. Targeted by a cold-blooded black-ops assassin with a score to settle (Jason Statham), their only hope is to get behind the wheel again and secure an ingenious prototype tracking device. Facing their greatest threat yet in places as far away as Abu Dhabi and as familiar as the Los Angeles streets they call home, the crew must come together once again as a team, and as a family, to protect their own.

About Waze

Waze is the social navigation pioneer, leveraging mobile technology and a passionate global community to redefine expectations of today’s maps. Waze is home to the world’s largest network of drivers who work together daily to outsmart traffic and save time and money. The app consistently recommends the fastest routes based on real-time driving and data from more than 50 million users. From traffic reroutes to low gas price alerts and relevant offers from favorite brands, Waze is one of the most comprehensive driving companions in the marketplace. To download the free Waze app for iOS or Android, visit http://www.waze.com.

About Universal Pictures Home Entertainment

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE) is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

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VIDEO: Adorable Kitten Dances to Bruno Mars

by Kristin1 Comment on VIDEO: Adorable Kitten Dances to Bruno Mars

As an animal lover, and a cat mom, I felt the need to share this video and all of its cuteness with you all! You’re welcome!!

Blog, TV

COMCAST ANNOUNCES INTERNET ESSENTIALS PILOT

by KristinLeave a Comment on COMCAST ANNOUNCES INTERNET ESSENTIALS PILOT

Comcast also doubles Internet speed and offers Wi-Fi at no additional cost


Comcast today announced several significant enhancements and milestones for Internet Essentials, the nation’s largest and most comprehensive high-speed Internet adoption program.  The company said it plans to conduct a pilot program for low-income senior citizens in Palm Beach County, and is doubling the service’s download Internet speed and providing a Wi-Fi router for no additional cost.

Now entering its fifth year, Internet Essentials has connected more than 275,000 low-income Floridians to online access at home, of which more than 182,000 live in the South Florida area. However disparities in Internet connectivity rates continue to persist and for the senior population the digital divide is wide.  According to Pew Research Center, just 47 percent, or less than half, of seniors (aged 65 and older) have high-speed Internet at home.  But when it comes to income level, only 25 percent of seniors with household incomes below $30,000 have home broadband, compared to 82 percent of seniors with household incomes at or above $75,000.

“We have made significant progress toward closing the digital divide for low-income parents and children across the country.  In less than four years, Internet Essentials has connected more than 500,000 families, or more than 2 million low-income Americans, to the power of the Internet at home,” said David L. Cohen, Comcast Corporation Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer.  “With the increase in the program’s Internet speeds and the addition of Wi-Fi, these families will have even easier access to the Internet and its life-changing resources for education, employment, healthcare, communication, and entertainment.”

The Internet Essentials pilot program for senior citizens is designed to better tackle the unique challenges of helping low-income seniors cross the digital divide and learn how to use the Internet. The first senior pilot program will take place in Palm Beach County, where Cohen was joined by City of West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio, Palm Beach County School District Superintendent Dr. Robert Avossa, and Urban League of Palm Beach County President and CEO Patrick J. Franklin to make the announcements.

“Senior citizens can be an afterthought when it comes to addressing digital literacy and use of the Internet,” said Franklin.  “However, the Internet has a tremendous power to help change their lives for the better by tearing down the walls that geography may have put between them and the ones they love.  It can also help restore a sense of community and inclusion, bonds that can weaken as we grow older.”

Comcast also announced it is doubling the speed for Internet Essentials to 10 Mbps downstream, which is enough to power multiple devices simultaneously. This is the third time in four years Comcast has increased speeds for customers. In addition, by offering Wi-Fi routers, customers will be able to connect any Internet-enabled device, such as a tablets or smartphone, which could help save money on monthly wireless bills.

To receive the faster Internet speed, customers simply need to reboot their cable modems.  Existing customers who would like a Wi-Fi router just need to call the dedicated call center and either request to have one shipped to them for free, or they can schedule a professional installation, also for no additional cost.  New customers will have the option to receive a Wi-Fi router when they sign up.

Internet Essentials Investments

In 2014, Comcast launched four new Internet Essentials Digital Learning Zones in South Florida at ASPIRA, Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, Chapman Partnership and Overtown Youth Center (OYC), which provide additional opportunities for low-income students and families to access the Internet and receive digital literacy training.    Comcast aims to help complete the continuum of connectivity, in which students spend the school day in wired classroom, stay connected after school in Internet Essentials Learning Zones and end their days connected at home, where families have online access through the Internet Essentials program. Comcast has dedicated $1 million in grants to create these zones across the country.

Through a partnership with The Urban League of Palm Beach County, Comcast offers a Digital Connectors Program that provides digital literacy training for students in Palm Beach County. Almost 60 low-income local youth have graduated from the program, which was launched in 2007.

Through Internet Essentials, Comcast has invested more than $240 million in cash and in-kind support to help fund digital literacy and readiness training and education, reaching nearly 3.2 million people through national and local non-profit community partners.  Through the end of June 2015, Comcast has:

  • Provided more than 41,000 subsidized computers at less than $150 each.
  • Distributed for free nearly 46 million Internet Essentials program materials.
  • Broadcast more than 7 million public service announcements, valued at more than $90 million.
  • Welcomed more than 3.5 million visitors to the Internet Essentials websites in English and Spanish and its Online Learning Center.
  • Fielded more than 3.2 million phone calls to our Internet Essentials call center.
  • Offered Internet Essentials to nearly 48,000 schools and 5,000 school districts, in 39 states and the District of Columbia.
  • Partnered with thousands of community-based organizations, government agencies, and federal, state, and local elected officials to spread the word.

Follow all the news about Comcast Florida on Facebook at Facebook.com/ComcastFlorida and on Twitter @ComcastFL