MINNEAPOLIS, MN — August 13, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — Lotto.com, the nation’s first online lottery platform to digitally deliver draw games and scratch tickets, proudly hosted a community-driven adoption event in partnership with Greyhound Pets of America on Saturday, June 20, at the Players Cafe in Minneapolis.

This event brought the community together for a fun and engaging morning while raising awareness for Greyhound Pets of America, an organization dedicated to helping retired racing greyhounds find loving homes. Its mission centers on providing care, advocacy, and adoption services that support a safe and successful transition into family life.

Attendees had the opportunity to meet adoptable greyhounds and enjoyed a variety of special activities and promotions, including 50% off select beverages, plus 25% off coupons for future non-lottery purchases, and more. Along with hosting the event, Lotto.com also made a donation to the organization to assist with adoption fees for future adopters. By hosting initiatives like this adoption event, Lotto.com continues to extend its impact beyond digital lottery access and into causes that improve quality of life at the local level.

A major highlight of the event was the presence of Bailey and Rhea, two adoptable retired racers who had recently arrived in Minnesota from the racetracks in West Virginia. They soaked up attention from the attendees, and even drew in some adoption applications that very day!

“GPA-MN was thrilled for this opportunity to show people what great pets retired racing greyhounds can be,” said Janelle Thienes, Board Member of GPA. “Players Cafe’s high foot-traffic location provided valuable exposure for our foster hounds among the dog-loving public in Minneapolis’ North Loop. We and the hounds are especially grateful for Lotto.com’s generous donation, which helps cover veterinary expenses and keeps adoption fees accessible.”

“Community engagement is a core part of our mission at Lotto.com,” said Kweku Sapara-Grant, Director of External Affairs for Lotto.com Inc. “Partnering with organizations like Greyhound Pets of America allows us to support meaningful causes while bringing people together in a positive and memorable way.”

Lotto.com is also contributing financial support to Greyhound Pets of America to further its efforts in animal rescue and adoption services. The funds will be used to help offset adoption costs, making it easier for these dogs to find happy, permanent homes.

While helping drive incremental funding for important state-run programs through state lotteries, Lotto.com also invests directly in the communities it serves. Most recently, the company partnered with Food For Thought Denver™ to support efforts addressing food insecurity. The initiative builds on previous community impact efforts, including support for The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County and the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance.

Lotto.com currently operates in 11 states, including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Oregon, with plans to expand into more states soon. The company recently also expanded into Puerto Rico, marking its first market launch outside of the contiguous United States.

For more information on Lotto.com, or to begin ordering official state lottery tickets “Winever,” visit www.lotto.com.

About Lotto.com Inc.
Headquartered in Jersey City, New Jersey, Lotto.com is the first digital platform for ordering official state lottery draw and scratch games on both mobile and web based platforms. As a lottery courier enabling player participation in the U.S. State Lotteries, Lotto.com helps lotteries across the country contribute incremental funds to state-run programs across education, parks, emergency responders, veterans’ health and other important services.

Lotto.com is the only BBB Accredited lottery courier service and is certified by Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) and the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), underscoring its commitment to security, compliance, and responsible gaming.

Lotto.com has over 4 million customers and has created 12 millionaires via state-run games, including the largest Lotto.com Scratch Tickets ticket win in history – $3 million to a customer in Colorado. In June 2023, Lotto.com introduced the Lotto.com Scratch Tickets, which are currently available in Arizona, Colorado, Massachusetts, Nebraska, Ohio, and Oregon. Lotto.com is currently available in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, and Puerto Rico with plans to expand to additional states in the near future.

CONTACTO:
Havas Formula
lotto@havasformula.com

BROOKLYN, NY – August 13, 2026 – (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) – Hispanic Information Telecommunications Network (HITN), the nation’s leading Spanish-language public media network, and Impacto, Philadelphia’s Latino newspaper of record, are partnering to present a special program focused on immigration, offering Hispanic audiences across the United States access to legal information and consular resources.

The program will air nationally on Sunday, August 16, at 9 a.m. and will subsequently be available for free on the HITN Go app, with no account required.

Hosted by journalist Haydeé Rosario Latorre, the program features immigration attorney Gladys Carredeguas, who will address legal considerations related to immigration processes and emphasize the importance of seeking qualified professional advice before making decisions that could affect an individual’s or family’s immigration status.

The program will also feature Marcos Bucio M., consul general of Mexico in New York, who will discuss the guidance, protection and support services available through Mexico’s consular network to Mexican communities across the United States.

The collaboration grew out of Impacto’s publication of an informational guide on immigration issues affecting communities in Pennsylvania. Through the television program, HITN and Impacto are expanding the reach of that information to a national Hispanic audience.

“From an information and outreach perspective, the work of Impacto is particularly relevant at this time,” said Michael D. Nieves, president and CEO of HITN. “We wanted to expand that message so it could reach HITN viewers and create a broader ripple effect supported by legal and consular information. Access to accurate and reliable information is essential, which is why anyone will be able to watch this program for free on the HITN Go app, without having to create an account.”

As part of its commitment to community journalism, Impacto had already published a special print edition designed to help residents better understand immigration policies, stay informed about their rights, assess their individual circumstances and identify resources that may help them make informed decisions for themselves and their families.

The special program reinforces the partnership between HITN and Impacto and their shared commitment to providing Hispanic communities with accessible, reliable and relevant information on issues affecting their daily lives.

About HITN Media
HITN is the leading Spanish-language media company that offers educational and cultural programming for the whole family. It reaches more than 35 million homes in the United States and Puerto Rico through DIRECTV, DIRECTV NOW, AT&T U-verse, AT&T TV, AT&T TV Now, DISH Network, Verizon FiOS TV, Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Mediacom, CenturyLink Prism, and Altice, Liberty Cable and Claro (Puerto Rico). Download the HITN GO app available on Apple, Android, Apple TV, and Roku® with a subscription.

For more information:
Corporate Webpage: HITN.org
TV Webpage: hitn.tv
Linkedin: @HITN
Facebook: @HITNtv
X: @hitn
Instagram: @HITNtv
YouTube: @HITNTelevision

About Impacto Newspaper
Based in Hunting Park, North Philadelphia, Impacto is Philadelphia’s Latino newspaper of record. Founded in 2003 by community activists and leaders, the publication was acquired and relaunched in 2020 with a focus on community journalism.

Impacto publishes three print editions each month in Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania, along with weekly digital editions and ongoing online coverage. The newspaper is distributed free of charge door-to-door throughout North Philadelphia and at additional locations across the city and state.

Impacto is owned by Nueva Esperanza, Inc. through a structure designed to provide community-based oversight while preserving editorial independence. Esperanza is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Hispanic communities and expanding opportunities for individuals, families and neighborhoods.

For more information, visit www.impactomedia.com.

CONTACT:
Fernando Cardenas
fcardenas@hitn.org

MIAMI, FL — August 13, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — Opción Yo, the leading mental health provider for Spanish speakers in the United States, today announced that it has been ranked No. 141 on the 2026 Inc. 5000, placing the company among the top 3% of Inc. Magazine’s prestigious annual ranking of America’s fastest-growing private companies.

More than a recognition of business performance, this milestone reflects a broader cultural evolution taking place across the United States.

For generations, society taught us to invest in what others can see. We joined gyms and embraced physical fitness. Today, another movement is taking place. People are increasingly investing in something less visible, but undeniably more important: their emotional well-being. More people are recognizing that true health is measured not only by how we look on the outside, but also by how we feel on the inside.

Opción Yo believes its remarkable growth is a reflection of this broader movement.

Despite representing one of the largest and fastest-growing populations in the United States, millions of Spanish-speaking individuals continue to face barriers to quality mental health care because of language, culture, and limited access to providers. Opción Yo was built to help change that reality—and to demonstrate that culturally competent care is not a luxury, but an essential component of quality healthcare.

“For a long time, mental health care in Spanish was seen as a small market. We always saw something different: millions of people who needed to be heard in their own language and understood through their own history. This recognition confirms not only that this need exists, but also that it is growing rapidly—and that people are seeking care that is both language and culturally appropriate,” said Daniela Sichel, CEO and Co-Founder of Opción Yo.

During the past three years, Opción Yo has grown 2,227%, becoming one of America’s fastest-growing private companies. Today, it supports Spanish speakers across the United States, Latin America, and Europe through a comprehensive emotional well-being model that goes far beyond traditional therapy. Opción Yo’s model combines specialist-led one-on-one sessions with an innovative emotional wellness platform that helps people create meaningful, lasting change.

“What makes us most proud isn’t that we’ve grown exponentially,” said Abi Mandelbaum, President and Co-Founder of Opción Yo. “What makes us proud is why we’ve grown. Our growth reflects that more people are embracing emotional well-being as an essential part of a healthy life. That’s the real milestone worth celebrating. This recognition is about society redefining what it means to be healthy.”

Perhaps future generations will look back on this moment the way we now look back at the rise of the fitness movement—not as the beginning of a successful industry, but as the beginning of a healthier way of living.

If that proves to be true, then Opción Yo’s place among the top 3% of the Inc. 5000 will represent more than the success of one company. It will stand as evidence of something far more meaningful: a society that understands that caring for our emotional well-being is every bit as important as caring for our physical well-being.

About Opción Yo 

Opción Yo is the leading mental health provider for Spanish speakers worldwide. Through its comprehensive emotional well-being platform and a mental health care team of hundreds of specialists, the company serves individuals, families, employers, and organizations across the United States, Latin America, and Europe.

Opción Yo’s proven, innovative model combines scientific evidence, human connection, and deep cultural sensitivity to deliver high-quality mental health care. Guided by the belief that emotional well-being should be as universally embraced as physical well-being, Opción Yo is helping to make world-class mental health care more accessible to Spanish speakers around the world.

CONTACT:
Ana Lerman Matonte
818.207.8671
anacmatonte@gmail.com

ATLANTA, GA — August 13, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — The Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA) today announced the 15th Annual Georgia Latino International Film Festival (GALIFF), celebrating its quinceañera with five days of unforgettable films, world-class filmmakers, red carpets, culture, music, and community from September 30 through October 4, 2026, at Atlanta’s historic Fox Theatre.

To mark this milestone, Mexico has been named GALIFF’s 2026 Country of Honor, bringing one of the world’s most celebrated cinematic traditions to the heart of Atlanta. Throughout the festival, audiences will experience award-winning films, visionary filmmakers, special guests, authentic cuisine, and cultural programming that celebrates the artistry, creativity, and global influence of Mexican cinema.

For fifteen years, GALIFF has done more than screen films, it has created opportunities and a platform for those who don’t have a voice.

What began as a bold vision has grown into one of the Southeast’s premier Latino film festivals, championing independent filmmakers, amplifying underrepresented voices, and connecting Georgia with stories from across Latin America, the United States, and around the world. Along the way, GALIFF has become a launching pad for emerging artists, a gathering place for industry leaders, and a cultural home for communities whose stories deserve the biggest screen.

“This Quinceañera is more than an anniversary, it’s a celebration of every filmmaker, volunteer, sponsor, and audience member who believed in our mission,” said Yvette Moise, Co-Founder and President of GALFA/GALIFF. “Honoring Mexico during this milestone year is especially meaningful because its cinematic legacy has inspired generations of storytellers around the world. As we celebrate fifteen incredible years, we’re also looking ahead to an even bigger future for Latino cinema in Georgia and beyond.”

The festival is also entering a new digital era. GALIFF has launched a completely redesigned galiff.org, creating a year-round destination where filmmakers, students, industry professionals, and film lovers can attend events, screenings, discover festival news, purchase passes, submit films, register to volunteer, explore educational programming, connect with career opportunities, and stay engaged long after the closing credits roll on GALIFF 2026.

As GALIFF celebrates fifteen years of storytelling, the organization is inviting filmmakers, volunteers, corporate partners, community organizations, artists, and supporters from across Georgia and beyond to be part of its most ambitious festival yet.

“This isn’t just our celebration, it’s Atlanta’s Hispanic Heritage celebration,” said Dr. Jose Marquez, Founder and CEO of GALFA/GALIFF. “Whether you’re premiering your first film, attending your first screening, volunteering behind the scenes, or helping us grow as a sponsor, you are part of this story. Our Quinceañera is about honoring where we’ve been while opening the doors to the next generation of filmmakers.”

None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our partners, sponsors, donors, and friends. For 15 years, their belief in our mission has helped GALIFF elevate diverse voices, create opportunities for emerging filmmakers, and build a vibrant cultural celebration that continues to grow year after year.

As we celebrate this Quinceañera milestone, we proudly recognize and thank our sponsors and community partners whose commitment makes this festival possible.

2026 GALIFF Sponsors & Community Partners: 

The Fox Theatre,  Ole Mexican Foods,  Fulton Films, VensureHR,  222Creative, WIFTA, Georgia Films, Dekalb Entertainment Commission and Georgia Latino Film Alliance.

The 15th Annual Georgia Latino International Film Festival promises five unforgettable days of cinema, conversation, culture, and celebration—bringing together audiences from every background to experience the power of storytelling without borders.

Festival passes, tickets, sponsorship opportunities (Still Available), volunteer registration, film submissions, and additional information are available at galiff.org.

CONTACT:
Manny Portillo
Director of PR, Media & Strategic Partnerships
(678) 592-8161
manny@mportillo.com

NEW YORK, NY — August 12, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — Preorders for the Google Pixel 11 series begin August 12 on Verizon’s Simplicity Plan and business options, bringing Google’s most advanced AI-powered lineup to the network you trust.

Verizon’s latest wireless plan is simple, transparent and built around what customers actually need, with no activation or upgrade fees though Verizon Loyalty. By pairing Google’s cutting-edge hardware with our straightforward Simplicity Plan, users get our best 5G access, clear monthly value and flexibility without carrier headaches. Are you a Pixel superfan? You can also choose Simplicity Pro to upgrade your Pixel 11 Pro every year.

With the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL and the groundbreaking Pixel 11 Pro Fold, you can experience Gemini Intelligence and cutting-edge automation features at their best. All four models, including the new Pixel Watch 5, will be available for customers at Verizon stores and online, with preorders starting August 12 at 10 am ET.

Verizon’s best Pixel offers

We know that even the most advanced technology is only as good as the network it runs on, and Verizon is the network that’s got you covered with offers designed to give you the most value.

• Switch to a Simplicity Plan & get Pixel 11 Pro: Get one line on Simplicity and the new Pixel 11 Pro (256GB) for $45/month total ($15 device payment + $30 plan rate) for 48 months with no trade-in required.
  • Here’s how it works: Verizon applies $380 in promotional credits to lower the device payment to $15/mo. To qualify for the $30/month Simplicity rate, new customers must activate a new smartphone line on the Simplicity Plan, sign up for Auto Pay and paper-free billing ($10/mo savings), and switch their number from another carrier ($15/mo savings). (Plus taxes/fees; additional terms apply).
• Switch, get Pixel 11 Pro on us, and upgrade every year: Get one line on Simplicity, the new Google Pixel 11 Pro (256GB) on us and upgrade to the latest Pixel model every year on the Simplicity Pro plan for $80/month.
  • Here’s how it works: With Simplicity Pro, you can return your phone in good working condition and upgrade to a new model once you’ve paid off at least 33% of the device (or every 12 months). Additional terms and conditions apply.
• New line: Trade-in and save up to $1,100: Trade in your eligible phone and sign up for a new line to receive up to $1,100 off the new Pixel 11 series smartphone.
  • How it works: Purchase your new device on a 36-month, interest-free payment plan and sign up for a new line on an eligible myPlan. Verizon covers up to $1,100 of the cost through monthly trade-in/promotional credits applied over 36 months. To qualify, the eligible trade-in phone must be active on your Verizon account for at least 60 days before your new purchase.
• Existing customers: Upgrade and save up to $900: Trade in your eligible phone to receive up to $900 off the Pixel 11 series on an eligible myPlan.
  • How it works: Purchase your new device on a 36-month, interest-free payment plan and trade-in an existing Apple, Samsung, Google or Motorola phone that has been active on your account for at least 60 days. Verizon covers up to $900 of the cost through monthly trade-in/promotional credits applied over 36 months.
• Bundle a Pixel and save: Buy a new Pixel on a payment plan or bring your own Pixel phone with a new line, and get a new Pixel Watch 5 and a Galaxy Tab S10 FE on us.
  • How it works: Buy an eligible phone or bring-your-own-phone with a new line activation, purchase the watch and tablet on a 36-month, interest-free payment plan and add a monthly service line for each device, starting at $15 a month with Auto Pay. Verizon covers the hardware costs by providing monthly promotional credits (up to $650 per device) over 36 months. If you bring your own phone, please ensure your new line remains active on your account for at least six months.
• Accessorize your Pixel: Don’t forget to protect your new device with a wide selection of cases and screen protectors. Starting August 12, buy 3 eligible accessories and get 20% off, buy 4 for 25% off, or buy 5 for 30% off.
• Verizon Business customers: Get up to $900 off the Google Pixel Series for new and existing Verizon Business customers adding a new line or upgrading their device with a qualifying trade-in. Device payment plan and My Biz Plan with $15+ monthly add-on spending required. Trade-in credits applied over 36 months.

Get the Google AI Pro for supercharged AI

Unlock the full power of your Pixel 11 with the Google AI Pro perk from Verizon. Get advanced access to Gemini to help you create, brainstorm and simplify your day, plus a massive 5 TB of cloud storage for all your photos and videos. Best of all, you can pair this powerful AI experience with any new smartphone.

Exclusive weekly rewards and customer experiences

Verizon is making it more affordable and more rewarding to keep the entire household connected. By enrolling in the new Verizon loyalty program using the My Verizon app, customers will receive cash back in Verizon Dollars every single month to use on devices, accessories and more, plus daily surprises, and the end of device upgrade and activation fees.

And with Verizon Shine, Verizon customers have a reason to look forward to Monday, all year round. All Verizon customers on any plan can enter weekly for a chance to win once-in-a-lifetime experiences, alongside daily drops including tickets to concerts and sporting events, exclusive merchandise, dining vouchers, gift cards and more.

Order your new Pixel today

Preorders for the new Google Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch 5 are live now! Pick your Pixel and experience the best Google experience on Verizon.

• Pixel 11 will be available in Frost, Obsidian, Pistachio and Hibiscus starting at $899.99.
• Pixel 11 Pro will be available in Obsidian, Fog, Olive and Canyon starting at $1,099.99.
• Pixel 11 Pro XL will be available in Obsidian, Olive and Canyon starting at $1,299.99.
• Pixel 11 Pro Fold will be available in Obsidian for $1,899.99.
• Pixel Watch 5 will be available in 41mm and 45mm sizes in Obsidian and Canyon (41mm only) starting at $499.99.

Visit verizon.com, the MyVerizon app or your local Verizon store to order yours today. Verizon Business customers can visit verizonbusiness.com for special business pricing and more information specific to businesses of all sizes. You can find the full series in stores starting August 20.

This announcement was originally published by Verizon. Read the original press release.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $138.2 billion in 2025. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

CONTACT:
George Koroneos
george.koroneos@verizon.com
Social: @GLKcreative

LOS ANGELES, CA — August. 12, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — Verizon today announced a $25,000 reward program for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals involved in vandalism that have cut off thousands of Verizon customers from critical wireless and wireline communications services.

Over the past several days, vandals cut multiple fiber cables causing service interruptions for customers in Los Angeles and parts of Southern California. Acts of network theft and vandalism represent a direct threat to the safety and security of our communities, emergency services, healthcare and all who rely on critical communications. Vandals also put their own lives at risk when perpetrating these crimes.

“These are criminal acts, affecting people’s safety and are putting lives at risk,” said Vandana Venkatesh, Verizon’s chief legal officer. “We are actively investigating several recent incidents and are pursuing all avenues to assist law enforcement in finding and convicting the perpetrators of these acts.”

According to industry data, California is at particular risk for vandalism – when it comes to the economic impact of these outages, the state saw the largest losses at $252.6M:

— California and Texas account for more than half of all reported incidents.

— California is the hardest hit state with 6,297 attacks in 2025 and with Los Angeles in particular experiencing 1,131 incidents.

It’s not just California, nationwide, the industry deals with thousands of incidents of vandalism of cables each year. Verizon stands committed to protecting America’s infrastructure.

“Across the country, people rely on us for critical connectivity 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” said Joe Russo, EVP & President of Global Networks and Technology, “Our network and security teams are working with law enforcement at all levels in tracking down the perpetrators and bringing these egregious acts to an end. This must stop because our communities should not be put at risk by thieves who vandalize or steal cables.”

The company is offering rewards of $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals who intentionally damage Verizon equipment. Anyone witnessing vandalism should call 911 and then contact Verizon’s Security department at 1-800-997-3287.

This announcement was originally published by Verizon. Read the original press release.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $138.2 billion in 2025. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit  www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

CONTACT:
Diana Alvear
973.647.4176
diana.alvear@verizon.com

or

Kevin Israel
908.902.0324
kevin.I@verizon.com

NEW YORK, NY — August 6, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — Many Americans continue to feel pressure from rising everyday expenses. Some are turning to credit cards and other expensive options like unsecured loans to cover surprise bills, manage a temporary gap in cash flow or even pay for basics like groceries and gas.

For these people, an auto secured loan may offer another option for borrowers who own a vehicle and are looking for a more affordable way to access funds.

Unlike an unsecured personal loan, an auto secured loan uses a vehicle as collateral. This can help borrowers qualify for higher loan amounts at better interest rates and with more flexible repayment terms.

Not all loans are created equal, however. If you’re considering an auto secured loan, here are six features that responsible lender Oportun suggests borrowers prioritize when evaluating their options.

1. Transparent, Easy-to-Understand Terms

A responsible lender will clearly explain the loan’s annual percentage rate (APR), monthly payment amount, repayment schedule, fees and total cost over time.

Borrowers should also understand what happens if a payment is missed and what options may be available if financial circumstances change. Clear information helps consumers make confident, informed decisions.

2. Affordable and Predictable Payments

The best loan is one that fits comfortably within your budget. Look for fixed monthly payments, reasonable repayment terms and the ability to pay off the loan early without penalties. Be cautious of products that rely on repeated refinancing or loan rollovers that can increase costs over time.

3. Lower-Cost Alternatives to Payday

When unexpected expenses arise, some consumers turn to high-cost forms of credit, such as payday loans, because they are often marketed as fast and easy to secure.

A responsible auto secured loan may offer a more affordable alternative with lower rates and repayment terms designed to help borrowers successfully repay what they borrow rather than become trapped in a cycle of debt. Be sure to shop rates across loan types and lenders.

4. Flexibility and Strong Customer Support

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Borrowers should look for lenders that offer convenient account management tools, flexible payment options and access to knowledgeable customer support representatives. The ability to get help when it’s needed can make a meaningful difference over the life of your loan.

5. Credit Building Opportunities

A loan can do more than just solve an immediate financial need. Many responsible lenders report payment activity to the major credit bureaus, allowing borrowers to build or strengthen their credit history through consistent, on-time payments. Over time, a stronger credit profile can open the door to additional financial opportunities.

6. Responsible Collateral Practices

Before taking out an auto secured loan, it’s important to understand how a lender approaches collateral. Responsible lenders use a vehicle to help expand access to credit. They do not offer credit as a shortcut to taking ownership of your vehicle. Look for lenders that offer hardship assistance and work with borrowers facing financial setbacks before pursuing collection actions. Repossession should always be a last resort.

Choosing the Right Lending Partner

If you’re considering an auto secured loan, make sure the lender you choose supports these six practices. Responsible lenders design their products to help people both access funds for short-term needs and improve their long-term financial health.

For example, Oportun offers clearly priced auto secured personal loans designed to help members access affordable credit and repay them on time so they can build a stronger financial future. Since its founding, the lender has provided more than $22 billion in responsible and affordable credit, helped more than 1.3 million people establish a credit history and saved its members more than $2.5 billion in interest and fees.

By focusing on lenders that prioritize transparency, affordability, flexibility and successful repayment outcomes, borrowers can find an auto secured loan that meets their current and future financial needs. Discover more information by visiting Oportun.com.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
Feature Impact
Source: Oportun

CONTACT:
Sarah Fowler
913-647-0938
sarah.fowler@featureimpact.com

MIAMI, FL — August 6, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — Negocios Magazine has released its latest edition featuring Mónica Vázquez, General Manager of ABANCA USA, on the cover. Vázquez has become one of the leading executives driving the growth of international banking in South Florida, leading the U.S. expansion of ABANCA and strengthening financial connections between Europe, Latin America, and the United States.

Headquartered in Miami, ABANCA USA represents the U.S. operation of one of Spain and Portugal’s leading financial groups. What began just seven years ago as an ambitious international project has evolved into a growing financial institution specializing in corporate banking, commercial banking, and private banking, serving companies, investors, and families with international financial needs.

Mónica Vázquez arrived in Miami with the challenge of launching ABANCA USA virtually from the ground up. Her mission included securing regulatory approvals, building a local team, and developing a differentiated banking platform within one of the world’s most competitive and highly regulated financial markets. Today, ABANCA USA operates across the United States, continuing its strategic expansion into key markets such as New York and Texas.

During her interview with Negocios Magazine, Vázquez explained that the bank’s strategy is centered on supporting internationally active clients through a single financial institution capable of serving them across multiple markets.

“Today’s client is global. There are no longer exclusively local clients. They are looking for a bank that can operate internationally, and that is exactly what we have built, always with a high level of specialization and personalized service”, said Monica Vázquez.

She also highlighted ABANCA USA’s active role in financing real estate developments, hotels, office buildings, multifamily projects, retail developments, and import/export operations, contributing to Miami’s continued growth as one of the world’s leading international financial centers. In addition, she emphasized the bank’s commitment to digital transformation and innovation, noting that artificial intelligence is already supporting approximately 25% of its internal processes to provide clients with more efficient and personalized banking experience.

Another key topic discussed during the interview was the growing role of women in international banking. Mónica Vázquez shared her personal leadership journey and reflected on the increasing presence of women in senior executive positions within the financial industry. She also spoke about her commitment to the business community as President of the Spain–U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Miami and as an active board member of several leading financial and business organizations.

Read the full interview in Negocios Magazine at:

MÓNICA VÁZQUEZ: LA EJECUTIVA QUE LIDERA LA EXPANSIÓN DE ABANCA USA EN EL MERCADO FINANCIERO ESTADOUNIDENSE ‹ Negocios Magazine

Negocios Magazine: South Florida’s Leading Business Publication

Journalist Eduardo Hapke and attorney Karen Blanco founded Negocios Magazine in 2013, creating South Florida’s only Spanish-language business magazine dedicated exclusively to entrepreneurs, executives, and business leaders. The magazine is published every two months in both print and digital formats and is widely distributed throughout South Florida.

In addition to its print edition, Negocios Magazine publishes daily business news through www.negociosmagazine.com, while reaching thousands of readers through its digital platforms and social media channels.

The magazine is also available through PressReader, one of the world’s leading digital publishing platforms, featuring more than 7,000 publications distributed through hotels, airlines, cruise lines, and corporations worldwide.

Negocios Magazine is also published on HeyZine.com, allowing readers to access the complete digital edition online.

Negocios Magazine is part of Acta Diurna Urbis Group Corp., a Miami-based media company that also publishes Ejecutiva Magazine, Welcome to America, Salud Florida Magazine, Hispanic Time, and Electric Cars Plus.

Follow Negocios Magazine on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X for the latest interviews, business news, and executive features.

Instagram: @NegociosMagazine
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/negociosus/
X: @NegociosUS
LinkedIn: Eduardo Hapke

CONTACT:
Eduardo Hapke
786-607-9355
ed@negociosus.com

LOS ANGELES, CA — August 5, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — The Chicano Hollywood Film Festival announced that Oscar-nominated makeup artist, character designer and longtime community advocate Ken Diaz has been named the inaugural recipient of the Community Impact Legacy Award, presented by Pure Flix Familia, Great American Media’s upcoming Spanish-language and bilingual faith and family entertainment destination. The annual award recognizes individuals whose lives exemplify faith, servant leadership and a lifelong commitment to strengthening families and communities. The honor was presented during the festival’s Closing Night Awards Ceremony.

“Ken Diaz has spent a lifetime creating unforgettable characters on-screen, but his greatest legacy is the lives he has touched off-screen,” said Johnny Murillo, founder of the Chicano Hollywood Film Festival. “His story reflects the values this award was created to recognize faith, redemption, service and a commitment to helping others discover hope and purpose.”

“The Community Impact Legacy Award, presented by Pure Flix Familia, recognizes people who use their gifts to make a lasting difference in the lives of others,” said Denise Crayne, Chief Financial Officer of Great American Media. “Ken’s remarkable career speaks for itself, but what makes him truly deserving of this honor is the way he has invested his faith, influence and compassion in the lives of others. His commitment to mentoring others, supporting second chances and pointing people toward hope reflects everything this award was created to celebrate.”

The honor reflects Pure Flix Familia’s mission to celebrate individuals whose lives demonstrate the power of faith, service and authentic storytelling to strengthen families and communities.

While Diaz’s Hollywood career has earned widespread acclaim, it was his personal journey of faith and ministry that made him the unanimous choice for the festival’s inaugural honor.

In 1991, Diaz was shot in the leg after confronting young gang members spray-painting graffiti beneath a Los Angeles freeway overpass. During his recovery, a friend prayed with him and introduced him to Jesus Christ, beginning a profound spiritual transformation that would shape the rest of his life.

Soon afterward, Diaz became involved in a church in Pico Rivera, where he spent months working alongside former gang members who shared powerful dramatic presentations based on their own lives. Their stories revealed not only the violence and consequences of gang culture, but also the hope found through faith, forgiveness and redemption.

That encounter changed the course of Diaz’s life, reshaping both his faith and the stories he would spend the next three decades helping bring to the screen.

“I had gone from wanting to beat these kids…to having a deeper understanding of them,” Diaz recalled in a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times. “I realized the humanity of the hurt, damaged people who just need love and guidance.”

Those relationships profoundly influenced both his ministry and his work in Hollywood. They enabled Diaz to bring extraordinary authenticity and humanity to acclaimed films including Blood In Blood Out, American Me and Training Day, portraying gang life not as something to glorify, but as a reflection of broken lives that can be transformed through hope and redemption.

Today, Diaz continues that commitment through his service with Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang intervention, rehabilitation and re-entry program. He serves on the Advisory Board of Homeboy Media, the organization’s film and media initiative dedicated to creating pathways into the entertainment industry for formerly gang-involved and formerly incarcerated individuals.

Founded in Los Angeles in 1988, Homeboy Industries provides hope, healing and opportunity through job training, education, mental health services, tattoo removal, legal assistance and workforce development, helping thousands of men and women rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.

Through Homeboy Media, Diaz is helping develop filmmaking programs that provide career training and job placement for roles both in front of and behind the camera while producing films and television projects that reflect the organization’s philosophy of kinship, redemption and hope.

“Ken has never separated his faith from his profession,” Murillo said. “Whether mentoring young artists, helping tell authentic stories on screen, or creating opportunities for men and women rebuilding their lives after incarceration, he has consistently used his God-given talents to serve others. That lifelong commitment to faith, family and second chances makes him the ideal inaugural recipient of this award.”

About Great America Media
Great American Media is the leader in faith and family entertainment, and one of the fastest-growing entertainment networks on television. Great American Media is home to a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and beloved series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; and GFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great American Media, established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices, is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on the GFam+ app.

Pure Flix Familia is a soon-to-launch Spanish-language streaming platform featuring faith- and family-centered films, series, and original programming created for Latino audiences. Through culturally relevant storytelling and collaborations with established and emerging Latino creators, Pure Flix Familia aims to become a trusted entertainment destination where families can discover uplifting stories that reflect their faith, values, and experiences. For more information, follow Pure Flix Familia on Facebook (@PureFlixFamilia), Instagram (@PureFlixFamilia) and TikTok (@PureFlixFamilia).

About The Chicano Hollywood Film Festival
The Chicano Hollywood Film Festival is a celebration of film, Latino culture, and community that brings together emerging and established storytellers from across the entertainment industry. More than a traditional film festival, the event offers an immersive experience featuring independent film screenings, industry-led workshops, filmmaker Q&As, networking opportunities, and cultural showcases honoring the richness of Chicano and Latino storytelling.

https://chicanohollywood.com/

CONTACT:
Thomas Graham
Crosswind Media
512- 537-1414
media@crosswindpr.com

Or
Johnny Murillo
Chicano Hollywood
818-844-6074
press@chicanohollywood.com

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — August 5, 2026 — (NOTICIAS NEWSWIRE) — New global research* from Velo highlights the growing need for shared experiences, as Velo launches “Echoes of Tomorrowland” – a global network of live events and synchronised livestreams that bring the magical experience of Tomorrowland to fans around the world.

The campaign is backed by new research* that found that almost two in five adults (39%) say building meaningful connections has become harder with age. This is driven by a range of factors, including difficulty in finding people with the same interests (28%), feeling awkward (27%) fear of rejection (24%), and a fear of being judged (21%).

Velo, the leading nicotine pouch brand in Europe** made for true originals, and Tomorrowland together believe the ultimate catalyst for breaking down these barriers is the music itself. The physical dancefloor acts as a powerful space for connection, driven by its unique role in self-expression. 30% of respondents agree the dancefloor is where they feel most able to show up as their authentic selves and “dance like nobody’s watching”, while 61% feel more comfortable expressing themselves when they see others doing the same. This leads to meaningful connections, with 27% of 25-35 year olds agreeing that friendships made at live music or cultural events are more genuine than those formed in other social settings.

With many fans unable to attend Tomorrowland in person, Velo brought the festival’s energy, culture, and community beyond. And to prove that self-expression is contagious, the campaign kicked off with a bespoke social experiment at the Tomorrowland Store in Ibiza where guests were handed a beautifully crafted physical butterfly half and challenged to find a stranger holding the other half to complete the butterfly. This interactive social experiment instantly turned a room of strangers into an active, collaborative community.

The event, which took place on Friday 17th July, was headlined by Ukrainian house and techno DJ, Korolova, and featured a livestream from Tomorrowland’s mainstage. Recreating Tomorrowland’s unique culture of spontaneous community, Velo welcomed a mix of consumer fans alongside hosted media from the UK and Spain, and lifestyle and music creators flown in from all corners of the globe.

Through connected “Echo” events in Ibiza and others – featuring live stages, synchronised streams, and DJ sets – “Echoes of Tomorrowland” creates a unique space and opportunity for dance music fans to fully express themselves and experience something new together.

Reflecting on the unique energy of the night, global DJ headliner Korolova said: “The dancefloor is one of the few places where people feel completely free to express who they are without judgment. That’s the energy I felt throughout the night in Ibiza, thanks to Velo – it was incredible to watch everyone let go, show up as their true selves, and celebrate their originality together.”

Supporting artist Camden Cox added: “What stayed with me from the night was watching total strangers connect so easily through a shared experience. Sometimes all people need is a small invitation to start a conversation, and seeing the crowd use the physical butterflies to break the ice and dance together was pure magic.”

Malky Brown, Global Head of Content & Partnerships at BAT, commented: “With ‘Echoes of Tomorrowland’, we wanted to recreate the sense of connection that makes the festival so special. By encouraging people to step outside their comfort zones and connect with others, we brought to life Velo’s belief that self-expression can bring people closer together.”

To watch the official event wrap film and discover more about Velo, visit @velo.global.

For +18 nicotine consumers only. This product contains nicotine and is addictive.

* 2009 Nicotine users (Aged 18+), who have used nicotine products for at least the past six months and are currently at least weekly users of nicotine products across the UK, Spain, Pakistan, Poland, and Austria. Research conducted between 16.06.2026 – 22.06.2026.
** Based on Velo estimated volume share in measured retail in the following key nicotine pouch markets in Europe: Sweden, Denmark, UK, Poland and Switzerland, calculated for the year 2025.

CONTACT:
Elin Thomas
Consumer & Brand PR Manager
BAT (Nicoventures Communications (Switzerland) SA)
elin_thomas@bat.com