CHICAGO (May 23, 2012) –

The 53rd Street Bicycle Center will celebrate its grand opening in
Hyde Park on Thursday, May 24, at 1:00 p.m., with a ribbon cutting attended by
4th Ward Alderman Will Burns and representatives from Bike and Park, which will
operate the center.

The University of Chicago partnered with Bike and Park and Metra to transform
retail space, vacant for more than a decade, into a bike center that will serve
the local community, visitors to Hyde Park, and the University community.
Representatives from the Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce and the University of
Chicago also will participate in the ribbon cutting.

The 53rd Street Bicycle Center, located at 1558 E. 53rd St. (corner of 53rd St.
& Lake Park Blvd), is Bike and Park’s second bike commuter center in
Chicago. Bike and Park opened its first Chicago commuter center in Millennium
Park in 2004.

Services offered at the 53rd Street Bike Center include:

- Secure bike parking

- Bicycle rentals

- Guided bike and Segway tours

- Food tours by bike

- Bike repairs

- Bicycle maintenance and safety classes

- Bike camp

- Community bike rides

The bike center’s hours of operation will be 7:00 a.m. to 7:00
p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Bike and Park’s mission is to inspire and enable people to ride
bicycles for the benefit of one’s health, spirit, & the planet.

Bike and Park also operates bike commuting centers at Millennium
Park, in Cincinnati and Santa Monica. Bike and Park was recently named a
semi-finalist in the Sustainable Brands Innovation Open, an event that
showcases highly innovative, socially conscious entrepreneurs focused on
sustainable products and services.

For more information, please visit www.BikeandPark.com or call
Jeremy Rothschild at (773) 230-4422. jeremy@bikeandroll.com

University of Chicago partners with Bike and Park and Metra to open Bicycle Center at 53rd St. Station | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The site includes an interactive feature that depicts KSR’s role as a bumper-to-bumper automotive component supplier.

“Not only have we positioned our manufacturing and distribution facilities globally to be nearer to our customers, but our website now provides a clearer picture on how we support the manufacturers of some of the most popular nameplates in the automotive industry,” says Craig Arnold, CEO & President.

With headquarters and manufacturing in Ridgetown, Ontario (Canada) and Sales & Engineering offices in Southfield, MI (USA), KSR manufacturing and distribution facilities are located globally in China, Brazil, Europe & Mexico (www.ksrint.com/?page_id=17). KSR supplies products and assemblies to many of the leading brands in the automotive business, including:

Chrysler           Continental/Teves           Donghee

Fiat                     Ford                                       General Motors

Hyundai           Isuzu                                      Jaguar

Kia                      Land Rover                         Magna

Mazda               Nissan                                    Fisker

Volkswagen    Volvo

Recently, KSR has expanded into producing an increasingly wide variety of high performance electronic sensors (www.ksrint.com/?page_id=7). Programmable sensors – both inductive and hall-effect – are built on common platforms and able to interface across the complete range of automotive performance requirements.

“KSR redefined the traditional fixed pedal business back in 1957,” says David Lydy, VP Global Sales and Marketing. “Since then we have defined industry standards in brake pedal modules, traditional fixed systems and advanced adjustable systems, and now sensors.”

For example, KSR’s patented and proprietary ASIC module is the world’s most compact with just 2,000 transistors, but still highly adaptable due to an incredibly wide-range of calibration. This sensor is as simple as an analog divider while being highly scalable from small to large angles, as well as short-to-long linear capabilities.

KSR sensors are imbedded bumper-to-bumper in vehicles, including:

 ETC accelerator pedals
 Electronic Throttle body
 Transmissions
 Turbocharging
 Electric Power Steering
 Chassis Height/Load Leveling
 Electronic Shift levers
 Fuel level
 Headlamp leveling
 Transfer cases
 Clutch & Brake pedals
 Manifold actuators

About Us

For more than 50 years, KSR has been an industry leader in designing, engineering and manufacturing adjustable and fixed pedal modules, foot and hand-operated parking brakes, electronic throttle controls and an increasingly wide variety of high performance electronic sensors. To learn more, please visit www.ksrint.com.

# # #

Leading Automotive Supplier, KSR International, Launches New Website; Interactivity Focuses on KSR’s Growth in Sensor Development & Production | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Chicago, IL – 1400 N. Washtenaw: on April 20, 2012 at 10 am, community residents and prominent leaders will gather to celebrate the groundbreaking of Borinquen Bella, a $11.7 million affordable housing rehabilitation project by Latin United Community Housing Association (LUCHA). Through this project, 47 units of housing will be rehabbed and preserved as affordable. Borinquen Bella will also bring investments by creating 40 construction jobs and opportunities for local vendors.

In addition to developing housing, the project will restore two historical and culturally significant murals. “Breaking the Chains” located at 1456 N. Rockwell was painted by John Pitman Weber in 1971 and is one of the oldest surviving murals in the country. “Honor Boricua”, located at 1318 N. Rockwell, was painted by Hector Duarte in 1992. The original artists will be leading the restoration of the murals and will be at the groundbreaking to answer questions.

Juan B. Rivera, Executive Director of LUCHA says, “We are excited to break walls on Borinquen Bella and to bring millions of dollars for affordable housing and build a project that will contribute to the vitality of the area. LUCHA will restore two extremely important murals which are symbols of the culture, the struggle and the spirit of our people. Arranging financing was challenging, our political leaders, our board of directors and our staff work together and made it possible. We could not have done it without our partners at the National Equity Fund, the Chicago Department of Housing and Economic Development, the Illinois Housing Development Authority and Harris Bank which have a great group of people that worked very hard to make this project a reality.”

Judy Jackson, who has lived in the apartment since 2007, stated “My family and I are ecstatic about the rehab. I am looking forward to moving into my new unit and having access to a new washer and dryer”.

LUCHA has contracted McShane Construction as the general contractor and Landon Bone Baker Architects as architects for the project.

The event brings together various supporters of Borinquen Bella. Representatives of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the City of Chicago, the Office of U.S. Congressman Luis Gutierrez, the Office of Alderman Roberto Maldonado, State Senator William Delgado and State Senator Iris Martinez will attend.

The mission of LUCHA is to provide decent and affordable housing, housing services and education to low and moderate income Latinos and other residents. LUCHA fosters community stability in areas lacking adequate housing due to discrimination on the basis of race, national origin, religion, familial status, and disability. This is done by empowering residents through education and participation, promoting affordable housing development, providing technical assistance, rehabilitating and managing housing, advocating for resources, and reinvesting in communities. The organization has developed and manages 153 units of affordable housing.

For more information call 773-276-5338 ext. 226

——————————————————————————

$ 12 Millones en Viviendas Asequibles Vendrá a Humboldt Park:
Creará 40 Puestos de Trabajo y Preservará Murales Históricos

Chicago, IL- 1400 N. Washtenaw: el 20 de abril de 2012 a las 10 horas, residentes de la comunidad y líderes prominentes se reúnen para celebrar la ceremonia de la primera piedra de Borinquen Bella, un proyecto de $ 11.7 millones para a rehabilitación de viviendas asequibles de Latin United Community Housing Association (LUCHA). A través de este proyecto, 47 unidades de vivienda serán rehabilitadas y preservadas como asequible. Borinquen Bella también traerá inversiones mediante la creación de 40 empleos en la construcción y las oportunidades para los proveedores locales.

Además del desarrollo de vivienda, el proyecto va a restaurar dos murales históricos y de importancia cultural. “Rompiendo Cadenas”, ubicado en 1456 N. Rockwell fue pintado por John Pitman Weber en 1971 y es uno de los más antiguos murales que sobreviven en el país. “Honor Boricua”, ubicado en 1318 N. Rockwell, fue pintado por Héctor Duarte en 1992. Los artistas originales estarán al frente de la restauración de los murales y estarán en la ceremonia para contestar preguntas.

Juan B. Rivera, Director Ejecutivo de LUCHA, dice, “Estamos muy contentos de romper las paredes de Borinquen Bella y traer millones de dólares para viviendas asequibles y construir un proyecto que contribuirá a la vitalidad del área. LUCHA va a restaurar dos murales muy importantes que son símbolos de la cultura, la lucha y el espíritu de nuestro pueblo. Arreglar el financiamiento fue un reto, nuestros líderes políticos, nuestra junta directiva y nuestro personal trabajaron juntos y lo hicieron posible. No podríamos haberlo hecho sin nuestros socios en National Equity Fund, el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Económico de Chicago, Illinois Housing Development Authority y el banco Harris, que tienen un gran grupo de gente que trabajó muy duro para hacer realidad este proyecto. ”

Judy Jackson, quien ha vivido en el apartamento desde el año 2007, declaró: “Mi familia y yo estamos emocionados con la rehabilitación. Tengo muchas ganas de mudarme a mi nueva unidad y tener acceso a una nueva lavadora y secadora.”

LUCHA ha contratado a McShane Construction como el contratista general y Arquitectos Landon Bone Baker como arquitectos para el proyecto.

El evento reúne varios partidarios de Borinquen Bella. Representantes del Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano, la ciudad de Chicago, la Oficina del Congresista Luis Gutiérrez, la Oficina del Concejal Roberto Maldonado, el Senador Estatal William Delgado y la Senadora Estatal Iris Martínez asistirán.

La misión de la LUCHA es proporcionar una vivienda digna y asequible, servicios de vivienda y educación para los latinos y otros residentes de ingresos bajos y moderados. LUCHA fomenta la estabilidad de la comunidad en las áreas que carecen de vivienda adecuada, debido a la discriminación por motivos de raza, origen nacional, religión, estado familiar o discapacidad. Esto se hace mediante la potenciación de los residentes mediante la educación y la participación, la promoción del desarrollo de vivienda asequible, la prestación de asistencia técnica, la rehabilitación y la gestión de la vivienda, la defensa de los recursos, y la reinversión en las comunidades. La organización ha desarrollado y gestiona 153 unidades de vivienda asequible.

Para mas informacion llamar al 773-276-5338 ext. 226

$12 million in Affordable Housing Coming to Humboldt Park: 40 Jobs to Be Created and Historic Murals to Be Preserved | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Every spring, emerging trees drop millions of blossoms, seeds, buds, husks, needles and “helicopters” onto driveways and sidewalks. And they also cover vast pitched roofs to be rain-swept into narrow 4” gutters.

The result can be blocked gutters that send overflowing water into soffits, fascia, siding, window frames – even into ceilings, walls and foundations. Standing water creates wood rot that invites carpenter ants and other insects that love moist wood. Or cracked plaster and degraded interior paint. Or basement water seepage. Or cracked foundations and damage to sidewalks and driveways.

Problems can be prevented with spring gutter cleaning during May or June. Experts at Lindemann Chimney Service, probably the largest gutter cleaning company in Chicagoland with 3,000 services every year for decades, have good tips.

They say to blow debris off the entire roof so it doesn’t enter the gutters. Then carefully clean all gutters and downspouts to remove spring tree waste and branches. Inspect for any cracks or leaks. And hire a quality gutter cleaning company that’s bonded and insured to work on your roof and whose employees have rooftop safety equipment and training. They advise against DIY cleaning because it’s difficult to secure a high ladder while maneuvering powerful leaf blowers into gutter channels and downspouts.

Effective cleaning during May or June – and again in November – keeps gutters and downspouts clear and lets them safely channel away rain away. Cleaning is a small investment now to prevent nasty problems later.

For information, contact Lindemann Chimney Service at 847-918-7994 or www.cleanfireplace.com.

###

Why Spring Gutter Cleaning? | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO – (April 9, 2012) – The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and more than 250 partner organizations announced today that the 10th Anniversary of Money Smart Week Chicago will be held April 21-28.

Coordinated by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and its partner organizations, Money Smart Week is designed to educate consumers about money management as well as generate awareness of financial education programs on topics such as saving, using credit wisely, and financial education for youths.

More than 500 free classes, seminars and activities will take place during Money Smart Week. Various local community groups, financial institutions, not-for-profit organizations, businesses, schools, libraries, local and national government agencies, and media personalities will carry out the educational activities.

“The Chicago Fed started the Money Smart Week program 11 years ago,” said Chicago Fed President Charles Evans. “The program has grown exponentially over the past decade, providing hundreds of educational offerings to help teach those in Chicago and outlying areas how to better manage their finances and navigate these financial times.”

There will also be classes offered in a variety of languages. Other highlights of Money Smart Week 2012 include an essay contest for grade school students from fifth through eighth grade, programming for Chicago Public School students, support and participation from several local professional sports teams, Visa’s sixth annual Financial Literacy and Education Summit broadcast live via the web, among others.

Additional updated information is available on the Chicago Fed’s website: www.moneysmartweek.org

###

Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Marks 10th Anniversary of Money Smart Week | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO – (April 9, 2012) – The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and more than 250 partner organizations announced today that the 10th Anniversary of Money Smart Week Chicago will be held April 21-28.

Coordinated by the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and its partner organizations, Money Smart Week is designed to educate consumers about money management as well as generate awareness of financial education programs on topics such as saving, using credit wisely, and financial education for youths.

More than 500 free classes, seminars and activities will take place during Money Smart Week. Various local community groups, financial institutions, not-for-profit organizations, businesses, schools, libraries, local and national government agencies, and media personalities will carry out the educational activities.

“The Chicago Fed started the Money Smart Week program 11 years ago,” said Chicago Fed President Charles Evans. “The program has grown exponentially over the past decade, providing hundreds of educational offerings to help teach those in Chicago and outlying areas how to better manage their finances and navigate these financial times.”

There will also be classes offered in a variety of languages. Other highlights of Money Smart Week 2012 include an essay contest for grade school students from fifth through eighth grade, programming for Chicago Public School students, support and participation from several local professional sports teams, Visa’s sixth annual Financial Literacy and Education Summit broadcast live via the web, among others.

Additional updated information is available on the Chicago Fed’s website: www.moneysmartweek.org

###

Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Marks 10th Anniversary of Money Smart Week | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Chicago, IL April 6, 2012 – Walmart and the Walmart Foundation announced $958.9 million in cash and in-kind contributions around the globe during the fiscal year ending Jan. 31, 2012. The company’s U.S. giving grew nearly 20 percent, largely due to increased donations of produce, meats, poultry and other nutritious food to local food banks from Walmart stores, Sam’s Club locations and distribution centers. In Illinois, Walmart gave more than $39,684,168,supporting nonprofits like Feeding Illinois, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Children’s Memorial Hospital, Chicago Urban League, Puerto Rican Arts Alliance, Catholic Charities, Chicago Public Library Association, HACIA, Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trustees for the University of Illinois for a Metro 4-H Health Jam and the Women’s Business Development Center.

“Walmart and our nearly 50,000 Illinois associates are committed to giving back to Illinois and supporting the communities where we work and live,” said Walmart Vice President and Regional General Manager Karisa Sprague. “We want to use our size and scale to positively impact social issues. Whether it is helping to fund and develop local job training centers, feeding those in need or supporting programs that provide positive learning tools for children, we are dedicated to improving the quality of life for every Illinoisan.”

In 2010, Walmart announced a historic $2 billion commitment of cash and in-kind gifts to hunger relief organizations in the U.S. through 2015. In Illinois, Walmart donated 13,589,950 pounds of food to local food banks—nearly 7,209,808 meals in the last fiscal year. The retailer and its Foundation also gave $60 million in grants to U.S.-based hunger nonprofits and partnered with Feeding Illinois and its regional food banks.

Overall, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation’s giving in the last fiscal year includes:
• $872.7 million in cash and in-kind gifts in the U.S., up from $732 million in fiscal year ending 2011;
• $86.2 million in cash and in-kind gifts in international markets, up from $66.8 million in fiscal year ending 2011;
• $958.9 million in global charitable contributions from Walmart and its Foundation in fiscal year ending 2012; and
• Included in the $958.9 million is $101.3 million in cash and in-kind gifts given by Sam’s Club and the Sam’s Club Giving Program to support local U.S. organizations which included 49.6 million pounds of food or more than 38 million meals. The Sam’s Club Giving Program also supports small business success and preventative health and wellness programs.

In addition, Walmart and Sam’s Club customers and associates around the world raised $140 million through in-store giving programs that benefit local charities. As one example, during the 2011 Christmas season our associates and customers in the U.S. raised $46.5 million during the Red Kettle campaign to benefit local chapters of the Salvation Army.

“We are so grateful to Walmart for its commitment to the issue of hunger,” said Tracy Smith, State Director of Feeding Illinois. “Food banks have seen record demand at member pantries, soup kitchens and shelters during the past year. Because of Walmart, we will put nutritious food on the table for thousands of hungry Illinoisans.”

The Walmart Foundation continues to fund efforts in workforce development, education, sustainability and health and wellness. For a state-by-state breakdown of giving, or more information about the Walmart Foundation, visit www.walmartfoundation.org.

# # #

About Philanthropy at Walmart
Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are proud to support initiatives that are helping people live better around the globe. In May 2010, Walmart and its Foundation made a historic pledge of $2 billion through 2015 to fight hunger in the U.S. The Walmart Foundation also supports education, workforce development, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness initiatives. To learn more, visit www.walmartfoundation.org

Walmart Provides $39,684,168 to Illinois Charitable Organizations | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

PLEASE NOTE:
EMBARGOED UNTIL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4

Chicago Opera Theater’s New General Director
Andreas Mitisek Announces 2013 Season
3 New Productions by Philip Glass,
Ástor Piazzolla and Giuseppe Verdi

CHICAGO, IL– (April 4, 2012)  Andreas Mitisek announced today Chicago Opera Theater’s (COT) 2013 Season, his first as General Director.  The season opens in February of 2013 with the Chicago Premiere of Philip Glass’ The Fall of the House of Usher, followed by Ástor Piazzolla’s María de Buenos Aires in April, and concluding in September with another Chicago Premiere, Giuseppe Verdi’s Joan of Arc (Giovanna d’Arco).  These three new productions will be presented at theHarrisTheater for Music and Dance inMillenniumPark.

“Each time you come to COT, you should be surprised by something you hadn’t thought existed. We want to make you laugh and cry and reflect on the stories we present,” said Andreas Mitisek. “What ties these operas together is their focus on the tension between the power of love and the love of power. Philip Glass, Ástor Piazzolla and Giuseppe Verdi all question our views and enlighten us with insights into the eternal means of the human heart.”

2013 will mark Chicago Opera Theater’s first season in over a decade that will have the three operas offered in the winter, spring and fall.

“I think it is vital that we engage our current audience more than once or twice a year,” said Andreas. “I also know this will really allow COT to connect with even more Chicagoans, giving them the chance to experience our unique theatrical creations.”

As announced in December, Andreas will also remain the Artistic and General Director of Long Beach Opera (LBO) in California.  In 2013, the two companies will co-produce The Fall of the House of Usher.  Moreover, the new production of María de Buenos Aires which premiered at LBO in January of 2012 will be the same production at Chicago Opera Theater in 2013.

Philip Glass’ The Fall of the House of Usher will open the 2013 Season on February 23 at theHarrisTheater.  The story is based on Edgar Allan Poe’s haunting tale about the fine line between reality and imagination inside the eerie Usher mansion. Philip Glass’ score perfectly captures the mood of this hypnotic and harrowing psychological drama.

Ken Cazan, acclaimed for his 2004 COT production of Britten’s Death in Venice, will direct.  The Financial Times gave the production “5 stars” and The Chicago Tribune called it “exquisite.”

Opening April 20^th  María de Buenos Aires, an opera of “stunning originality,” pulses to the passion and beat of Ástor Piazzolla’s revolutionary nuevo tango and Horacio Ferrer’s mesmerizing, imaginative poetry.

“Piazzolla’s María is the ultimate metaphor for the heart and soul ofArgentinaand, for me, also a metaphor for love, hope, fear and resilience,” explains Mitisek.

In 1967, Ástor Piazzolla and Horacio Ferrer called their first collaboration, María de Buenos Aires, a “tango operita.” However, this work contains music unlike any conventional tango. Piazzolla took the tango off the dance floor by creating a new style termed “nuevo tango.” 

General Director Andreas Mitisek will both conduct and direct the piece, as he did at Long Beach Opera.  The Los Angeles Times calls María de Bueno Aires “a stunning new production” and says “Mitisek must be one of the premier interpreters of Piazzolla.”

Closing the 2013 Season in September, is Verdi’s Joan of Arc (Giovanna d’Arco), the winner of 2010’s The People’s Opera – a fundraising initiative where COT audiences picked from one of three operas to be performed in a future season.  Telling the iconic story of the courageous St. Joan, the opera features some of Verdi’s most beautiful music as COT celebrates his 200^th birthday in 2013.

“I am greatly looking forward to coming toChicagoand collaborating even more with our audiences and community,” said Andreas.  “I want to create an immersive experience that goes beyond just watching opera.”

 —

Chicago Opera Theater performs at The Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park – 205 East Randolph Drive.

Season Subscriptions are on sale now for the 2013 Season, which include a ticket to all three operas.  Renewing subscribers may take advantage of Early Bird pricing through July 31^st, 2012.  Chicago Opera Theater continues to offer 50% off subscriptions in most sections to new COT Subscribers.

 Tickets to individual shows of the 2013 Season will go on sale in January of 2013.

Tickets are available at 312.704.8414 or online ChicagoOperaTheater.org. 

2013 Season

 Philip Glass
THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER
February 23, 27 and March 1 at 7:30pm; February 24 at 3pm

Director:                                            Ken Cazan

Sung in English with English supertitles.

Ástor Piazzolla
MARÍA DE BUENOS AIRES
April 20, 24, 26 at 7:30pm; April 28 at 3pm

Conductor:                                        Andreas Mitisek
Director:                                            Andreas Mitisek

Sung in Spanish with English supertitles.

Giuseppe Verdi
joan of arc (Giovanna d’Arco)
September 14, 18, 20 at 7:30pm; September 22 at 3pm

Sung in Italian with English supertitles. 

| Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO OPERA THEATER PRESENTS

George Frideric Handel
TESEO

The Second Production of the 2012 Season –
General Director Brian Dickie’s last season with Chicago Opera Theater
April 21, 27, 29, May 2
at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park

CHICAGO, IL (March 22, 2012) – Chicago Opera Theater (COT) continues their 2012 Season, and General Director Brian Dickie’s last season with the company, with Handel’s Teseo.   Performances are April 21, 27, 29, and May 2 at theHarrisTheater for Music and Dance inMillenniumPark.  

This is Brian’s 24^th Chicago premiere since he became COT General Director in 1999.  This will be the 6^th Handel work the company has produced since 2001, with Acis and Galatea (2001), Semele (2002), Agrippina (2003), La resurrezione (2005), also being Chicago premieres.

“Handel has been such an integral part of what we have done here this last decade or so, and I am thrilled to produce another Handel in my final season here at Chicago Opera Theater,” said General Director Brian Dickie. 

Teseo marks the final opera in COT’s baroque trilogy devoted to the exploration of operas with Medea as a central character.  COT presented Cavalli’s Jason (Giasone) to great acclaim in 2010 (4 stars – Chicago Tribune) and in 2011 Charpentier’s Medea (“truly inventive” – Chicago Sun-Times. 

Teseo was written in London by Handel at the age of twenty-eight.  In this last chapter of the trilogy, the wicked Medea is tormented by jealousy – this time Teseo of Athens is the object of her affections.  A final unrequited love story that ultimately leads to Medea’s merciless revenge.

Conductor Michael Beattie is making his Chicago Opera Theater debut.   Michael, a highly regarded keyboardist, will also play the harpsichord in the pit.  He has conducted atBoston’s Emmanuel Music, Glimmerglass Opera, American Repertory Theater and Pittsburgh Opera, and has toured internationally with director Peter Sellars.

Chicago’s own Baroque Band is the orchestra for Teseo.  This period-instrument orchestra has been hailed by critics and audiences, and has gained a reputation as one of the most exciting period-instrument ensembles in the United States.

James Darrah is returning to COT after directing Medea in 2011.  The Chicago Tribune called Medea “…a fresh and stimulating production by James Darrah, a gifted young American stage director who is the newest discovery of COT General Director Brian Dickie.”  James will also be designing the costumes for Teseo.

Set Designer François-Pierre Couture returns to COT, also after last season’s Medea.  François-Pierre has been nominated for several awards in Los Angeles in both scenery and lighting design.   He most recently designed Maestro, The Life of Leonard Bernstein, currently touring theUnited States and seen here inChicago this past winter at theRoyalGeorgeTheatre.

Julian Pike, Lighting Designer, returns to COT for his fourth consecutive season.  Last season he designed the lighting for Medea and He/She, and he will also work as Lighting Designer for this season’s Moscow, Cheryomushki opening April 14^th. 

The title role of Teseo will be sung by mezzo-soprano Cecelia Hall.  Cecelia was the inaugural recipient of the Brian Dickie Outstanding Young Singer Award, presented at COT’s recent 2012 Gala honoring Brian.  As a member of the Ryan Opera Center at Lyric Opera of Chicago, Cecelia appeared this season in Lucia di Lammermoor, The Magic Flute, Aida, and Rinaldo. 

“I am delighted with the Teseo cast, and we can all look forward to a feast of fine singing with local Chicagoan Cecelia leading the way,” said Brian Dickie.

Renée Tatum (Medea) is in her second year of the Met’s Lindemann Young Artist Development Program. This season at the Met, she sang Fenena in Nabucco, and in February performed La Haine in the Metropolitan Opera and the Juilliard School’s joint production of Gluck’s Armide.   Future engagements include The Magic Flute with San Francisco Opera, and Der Ring des Nibelungen with Seattle Opera.

Manuela Bisceglie (Agilea), an Italian native, is making her Chicago debut.  She has performed at many prestigious opera houses and festivals, including Opèra National de Paris (Francesca da Rimini) and Glyndebourne Festival (L’incoronazione di Poppea).  David Trudgen (Arcano) made his Chicago Opera Theater debut as Medoro in 2008’s Orlando.  He was hailed by the Chicago Tribune as “the next generation’s answer to David Daniels.”

Completing the cast is Deanna Breiwick (Clizia) and Gerald Thompson (Egeo).  Deanna was a 2011 Metropolitan Opera National Council Grand Finalist, and this season covered the role of Ariel in the premiere of The Enchanted Island with the Met.  Gerald began this season as the cover of Bertarido in Rodelinda at the Metropolitan Opera, and sang the role of Mike Teevee in The Golden Ticket at Atlanta Opera. He rounds out the season with his return to Europe for concert performances of Graun’s Montezuma.

TESEO is generously supported by JULIE AND ROGER BASKES, ELIZABETH F. CHENEY FOUNDATION, JOAN AND JIM SHAPIRO, AND SUZANNE L. WAGNER. 

Teseo runs for only four performances on April 21, 27, 29, and May 2, 2012 at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park, 205 East Randolph Street.

Individual tickets to Teseo are on sale and range from $45-$125.  COT offers half-off tickets to students in sections A, B, and C. 

COT has also introduced 100@25 – a new ticket program where COT offers 100 tickets to each performance for only $25.  These will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and are available in all sections of the Harris Theater.  (Subject to availability, and a limit of two tickets per household.)

Season Subscriptions for the 2012 Season range from $66-$345, and include a ticket to Teseo, as well as Shostakovich’s Moscow, Cheryomushki (April 14-22) and a new production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute (September 15-23).  NEW SUBSCRIBERS RECEIVE 50% OFF IN SECTIONS A, B, AND C!

Tickets may be purchased at Chicago Opera Theater: ChicagoOperaTheater.org or 312.704.8414.    Tickets may also be purchased at the Harris Theater:  HarrisTheaterChicago.org or 312.334.7777.

George Frideric Handel
TESEO
April 21, 27, May 2 at 7:30pm; April 29 at 3pm at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance

Conductor:                                        Michael Beattie
Director:                                             James Darrah
Set Designer:                                    François-Pierre Couture
Costume Designer:                      James Darrah
Lighting Designer:                       Julian Pike

Sung in Italian with English supertitles.

Role                                                    Cast (Alphabetical)
Agilea (Soprano)                            MANUELA BISCEGLIE
Clizia (Soprano)                              DEANNA BREIWICK
Teseo (Mezzo)                                 CECELIA HALL                   
Medea (Mezzo)                                RENÉE TATUM                 
Egeo (Countertenor)                     GERALD THOMPSON
Arcano (Countertenor)                DAVID TRUDGEN              

COT Young Artists Ensemble:  LOREN BATTIESTE, ANDREW HARRIS, DREW LADD, MATTHEW NEWLIN, CORRIE STALLINGS, CAROLYN STEIN, VALERIE VINZANT, MEGAN ROSE WILLIAMS

Supernumeraries:  NATION HENRIKSON, CATHERINE STEGEMANN

CHICAGO OPERA THEATER PRESENTS George Frideric Handel’s “Teseo” | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

McCook, Ill. — Vulcan Material Company’s McCook Quarry does more than provide the aggregate and construction materials that makeup the foundations of our local buildings, roads, bridges and other structures.

Whether by adopting nearby schools, hosting their annual Law Enforcement Day, or being a “top dog” at the La Grange Pet Parade, the McCook Quarry also builds local foundations through community partnerships.

And this past week, the McCook team was recognized by the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA) for all their exemplary efforts in community relations.

Ranking in the top 10% of nationwide applicants, the quarry received the Gold Award for Community Relations at the NSSGA’s annual convention.

“We’re incredibly grateful for our community partnerships,” said Jeff May, Vulcan’s regional manager. “Winning this award is really the result of the ongoing relationships that we’ve been fortunate to share and sustain.”

As is the case with the quarry’s annual scout day, some of McCook’s initiatives are now embedded into the culture of the very organizations with whom they partner.

“The yearly Earth Science Day is something every sixth grader in our district gets to experience,” said Dr. Glenn Schlichting, Superintendent, LaGrange School District 105. “Next fall’s class was in first grade when the partnership began, so it has since evolved into a part of being a sixth grader that younger students now look forward to every year.”

And while education and neighborhood outreach have both been key priorities for the McCook Quarry, they’ve also seen dividends from their strategic partnerships with organizations like the Lyons Township Quarry Council, local chambers of commerce and business associations.

“The McCook Quarry isn’t just a local source of high quality aggregates,” said Katherine Liebforth of the Western Suburban Chamber of Commerce. “Their continual outreach with local government and local employers has positioned them as one of the key fixtures in our business community.”

According to May, receiving the Gold recognition from the NSSGA speaks just as highly of the community as it does the McCook Quarry.

“Everyone benefits from a strong community that promotes one another,” said May. “This recognition is an acknowledgement that our entire community is committed to building strong, sustainable foundations for our friends, neighbors and future generations.”

For more information about Vulcan Material Company’s McCook Quarry, visit vmcmccook.com.

Community Partnerships Nationally Recognized | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Baby Boomers are notorious for keeping secrets, says Paul Katz, founder of LifeAuditors, Inc. (http://www.lifeauditors.com), a new fee-based consulting service that examines the totality of personal and business planning tools. It’s because of those secrets that Baby Boomers are typically ill-prepared for whatever curve life may throw them.

“We live hectic lives in an often troubling world,” Katz says. “Sometimes all we really want is somebody to lean on with an objective, unbiased point-of-view. Family and friends are great, but usually they lack the experience and perspective we need. Professional advisors are key, especially those without bias and the ability to take a horizon-wide view.”

No matter if you are a Baby Boomer or a member of the Greatest Generation, a life audit is an exceptional tool that involves having a LifeAuditors counselor challenging you while helping address a variety of concerns, all while being non-judgmental. “Our clients tell us that this results in a lasting relationship that is built on trust,” Katz says.

The Four-Steps Involved in a Life Audit

The life audit process is a financial and personal check-up conducted on a fee-basis (http://www.lifeauditors.com/how-we-work/). LifeAuditors are an impartial, independent third party whose only goal is to help clients start anew based upon an entire set of facts. The process is a comprehensive review involving just four steps:

1. Holding an initial consult to gauge the current state of a client’s life and/or business plan.

2. Reviewing existing documents, including, personal and corporate tax returns, wills, trusts, estate plans, buy-sell exit strategies, retirement plans, pre and post-nuptial agreements, special needs plans (for dependents), and blended family plans.

3. Preparing an audit that pinpoints areas of strengths and weaknesses to create a comprehensive LifeAuditors plan document.

4. Communicating the plan, if appropriate, to financial and legal advisors to ensure everyone is working together to achieve objectives and goals. LifeAuditors is happy to make referrals to other professionals if clients need legal and/or financial planning assistance.

“Since a sizeable share of our business is referred by accountants, attorneys and financial planners, we are very experienced at working closely with our clients so that they hear the whole truth,” Katz says. “From our perspective we earn our clients’ trust. Not surprisingly we are told that LifeAuditors has no appearance of a hidden agenda nor do we make preconceived judgments.”

About LifeAuditors, Inc.

LifeAuditors, Inc. provide a comprehensive, independent assessment of personal and business objectives that includes analysis of corporate and personal tax returns, wills, trusts, buy-sell agreements, retirement plans, insurance, pre and post-nuptial agreements, special needs arrangements for dependents, blended family planning and personal exit strategies. LifeAuditors consulting services are on a fee-basis only; no products are ever sold. To learn more, visit http://www.lifeauditors.com to schedule a complimentary consult.

LifeAuditors Offers Unique Planning & Evaluation Service That Examines the Totality of Personal & Professional Planning | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO OPERA THEATER ANNOUNCES THE APPOINTMENT OF ANDREAS MITISEK

AS GENERAL DIRECTOR

CHICAGO, IL (December 7, 2011) – Chicago Opera Theater (COT) Board President, Gregory O’Leary, announced today the appointment of Andreas Mitisek as the company’s new General Director, effective September 1, 2012.  He will become the General Director Designate on January 1, 2012 to begin working on future seasons at COT.  Mitisek signed a five-year contract with Chicago Opera Theater.

Mitisek will take over from current General DirectorBrian Dickiewhen Dickie’s contract ends August 31, 2012.  Dickie was appointed as General Director in 1999, and according to the Chicago Tribune “lifted COT to a standard that has made it not only one of the nations’ leading regional companies, but a nationally and internationally recognized pacesetter as well.”

“We chose Andreas to be the next General Director due to his original and unique artistic vision which builds upon the incredibly high standard set by Brian,” said Board President O’Leary.  “The Search Committee, as well as the Board and I, are extremely enthusiastic about the future of the company under Andreas’ direction.”

Andreas Mitisek is currently Artistic and General Director of Long Beach Opera (LBO), which is well-known for its daring repertory and unconventional interpretations. Mitisek became LBO’s Principal Conductor in 1998 and Artistic & General Director in 2003. His vision and leadership has helped LBO more than double its budget (from $434K to $1.2M), eliminate a longstanding deficit and to raise subscriptions by 500%. Mitisek transitioned the company from a festival format to a seasonal format of four productions a year.

“COT is the place where some of the most interesting opera productions in the country happen and I am honored to follow such an inspiring leader as Brian Dickie, who has built this company into a trademark of artistic innovation,” said Mitisek. “I look forward to becoming a part of the rich artistic fabric of Chicago, reaching out to the community and continuing the journey into new and unexplored territories of opera.”

“Andreas has done interesting work at Long Beach Opera which mirrors in many respects the character of COT,” said current General Director Brian Dickie.  “Andreas is ideally equipped to take Chicago Opera Theater forward in the challenging circumstances that many performing arts companies face in these difficult times.”

Andreas will remain as Artistic and General Director of Long Beach Opera, creating a new model for artistic collaboration between two companies with modest budgets and similar creative sensibilities. 

“Andreas, being ever the innovator and entrepreneur, will simultaneously manage Chicago Opera Theater and Long Beach Opera.  Given his tremendous vision, quantifiable efficiency, and boundless energy – coupled with modern technology – he will leverage the strengths of both companies in two distant parts of the country to produce opera at the next level not only in artistry, but also efficiency,” continued O’Leary. 

Mitisek explains:  “Creating a national collaboration with Long Beach Opera will bring a heightened presence for both companies, creating synergies on an artistic and organizational level that can serve as a model for opera to thrive in the 21st century.”

“The appointment of Andreas Mitisek promises to continue COT’s distinguished history of inventiveness and quality.  The company’s reputation for innovation will be enhanced by the unique producing partnership being established with Long Beach Opera,” said Opera America President Marc Scorca.  “Both companies and their communities will benefit from Mitisek’s exciting artistic vision and dynamic leadership.”

*****

ANDREAS MITISEK (Complete Biography)

Andreas Mitisek is currently Artistic and General Director of Long Beach Opera (LBO), which is well-known for its daring repertory and unconventional interpretations. Mitisek became LBO’s Principal Conductor in 1998 and Artistic & General Director in 2003. His vision and leadership has helped LBO to double its budget ($430K to $1.3M), eliminate a longstanding deficit and to raise subscriptions by 500%. Mitisek transitioned the company form a festival format to a seasonal format of four productions a year.

One of the artistic highlights included a newly-conceived production of The Ring Of The Nibelung presented in 2006.

Mitisek, who was appointed as Artistic & General Director in 2003, has further established LBO’s place as a leader in innovative and accessible opera.Southern Californiaaudiences have embraced LBO’s expanded artistic offerings as seen by a significant increase in ticket sales and first-time attendees.

LBO has presented one site-specific production per season since 2007, including performances in a popular night club, public parking garages, an Olympic swimming pool, the Ship hull of the Queen Mary, and a furniture warehouse. These performances have sold out each year since 2009 and audience demand has prompted LBO to provide additional performances.

During these years of growth, LBO has fostered collaborative partnerships with a number of Southern Californiaarts organizations. Such partnerships have become the standard for LBO’s “Coincidence” series of insider season events (since 2009). In 2011, LBO forged a new partnership, co-hosting the Southern California Philip Glass Festival with Pacific Symphony Orchestra. In 2012, LBO will partner with the Aquarium of the Pacific by performing in the Aquarium’s Great Hall for the US premiere of The Paper Nautilus by Gavin Bryars. Osvaldo Golijov’s Ainadamar is also part of the 2012 season, with an outdoor performance in downtownLong Beach, against the backdrop of a deserted six story office building.

From 1990-1997 Mitisek served as Founding and Artistic Director of the Wiener Operntheater (WOT) in his hometown of Vienna, Austria. He shaped WOT’s artistic profile of presenting 20th century and rarely seen works. He conducted premieres such as:  John Adams’ Nixon in China, György Ligeti’s Le Grand Macabre, Harry Birtwistle’s The Second Mrs. Kong, Benjamin Britten’s Death in Venice, Krzysztof Penderecki’s The Devils of Loudun, and Aribert Reimann’s Das Schloss.

His work as guest conductor has taken him, among others, to Komische Oper Berlin (Fledermaus, Orpheus and Euridice), Wiener Volksoper (Guiditta, Midsummer Night’s Dream), Seattle Opera (Eugene Onegin, Der Freischuetz, Così fan tutte, Don Giovanni) Philadelphia Opera Company (Salome), Austin Lyric Opera (Salome, Rigoletto, Faust), Vancouver Opera (The Rake’s Progress), Opera Theater of St. Louis (American Premiere of Michael Berkley’s Jane Eyre), Santiago de Chile (Eugene Onegin), and Tokyo (Japanese Premiere of Minoru Miki’s Jouri).

In 2005 Mitisek extend his creative activities to include stage directing. He created and directed an award-winning version of Schubert’s Winterreise, with a new story combining Schubert’s song cycle and Goethe’s Sorrows of Young Werther. In 2006 another concept and treatment was the opera The Diary of Anne Frank by Grigori Frid, where Mitisek incorporated a Holocaust survivor and her memoirs into the story. It was performed in the transient space of underground parking garages as a metaphor for dislocation and abandonment. In 2008 he staged Ricky Ian Gordon’s Orpheus and Euridice in a 500,000 gallon Olympic size swimming pool. In 2009 he staged a double bill of Viktor Ullmann’s The Emperor of Atlantis and Carl Orff’s Die Kluge in the former engine rooms of the Queen Mary. In 2011 he conducted, staged and designed Medea by Cherubini in a furniture warehouse and conducted, staged and designed the West Coast Premiere of Akhnaten by Philip Glass.

longbeachopera.org

Photo of Andreas Mitisek at: chicagooperatheater.org/company/amitisek_photo.jpg

CHICAGO OPERA THEATER

Founded in 1974 by Alan Stone, Chicago Opera Theater (COT) has carved a significant place for itself in the operatic life ofChicago and has reached an audience of hundreds of thousands through its mainstage performances, community engagement, education programs in Chicago Public Schools, as well as its renowned Young Artist Program. 

Since Brian Dickie’s appointment as General Director in 1999, COT has evolved as an opera company that is young, fresh, and critically acclaimed.   The Chicago Tribune says “Chicago Opera Theater is on a roll.  The company’s splendid, adventuresome shows continue to prove that the spirit of operatic adventure is alive and well at theHarrisTheater.”   The Chicago Reader calls COT “Chicago’s most interesting opera company.”

Chicago Opera Theater’s 2012 Season opens at the HarrisTheateron April 14 and runs through September 23, 2012.  The Season includes Shostakovich’s Moscow, Cheryomushki, Handel’s Teseo and Mozart’s The Magic Flute.  For tickets or more information go to ChicagoOperaTheater.org or call 312.704.8414.

Chicago Opera Theater Announces the Appointment of Andreas Mitisek as General Director | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Greg Walstra of Greg Walstra, Financial Concierge Services recognized for excellence in service to area medical professionals

Wheaton, IL (January 16, 2012) – According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 700,000 physicians in the United States who work in excess of 60 hours per week. While their earning potential is the highest among any profession in the US, a blizzard of government regulations and a host of clinical and economic issues leave little time for a doctor to manage their professional and personal lives.

In response, an elite group of professionals is emerging as specialists to the medical community. In recognition of his work with area health care executives and physicians, Greg Walstra of Greg Walstra, Financial Concierge Services has been named an MD Preferred Financial Partner. Each year, US Medical Specialties, Inc., a national medical consulting firm, recognizes excellence in service to the medical community in a number of disciplines including real estate, mortgage lending, insurance, accounting, banking, financial and legal services. The goals of the MD Preferred Program for financial partners include identifying, acknowledging and promoting professionals who provide service excellence to the medical community.
Greg Walstra remarks, “In a growing environment of physician shortage, I understand that many physicians considering a career in our community will make their decision based on life style issues. This is why I believe that concierge-level administrative and financial services that save the physician time are critical to their overall lifestyle, and greatly enhance work-life balance.”
ABOUT GREG WALSTRA

Greg Walstra, Financial Concierge Services was founded after six years of managing a private family office for a high net worth Chicago family. “Managing day to day financial and administrative affairs for individuals and families” is his core business. With unique insight of what busy people want in order to simplify their lives and preserve their valuable time, Greg offers a number of services geared towards those with demanding careers. In addition to bill payment, coordination of professional services and other daily money management, Greg is also expert in a wide array of tangible assets including real property, yachts, specialty vehicles and other collectibles. He has also branched out to serve those dealing with transitions into assisted living and those who find themselves dealing with complex financial responsibilities for the first time. He can be reached through his website at www.gregwalstra.com or by telephone at 630-561-4400.
ABOUT MD PREFERRED PHYSICIAN SERVICES

Each year the MD Preferred designation recognizes a diverse group of ‘doctor friendly’ professional service providers. MD Preferred providers can be found at an online resource center, www.MDPreferredServices.com. Access is available at no cost to the medical community. MD Preferred also manages one of the industry’s largest medical job boards, publishes a daily medical blog and distributes a monthly E-Newsletter to every residency and fellowship program in the country. For additional information contact Mike O’Malley at 800-260-8366.

Chicago Area Financial Concierge Receives National Health Care Recognition | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MetroBoard Night Out at Le Fleur de Lis – Raising Funds for Community Projects
Chicago, IL, January 9, 2012– The Metropolitan Board of the Chicago Urban League (MetroBoard) presents MB Night Out. MB Night Out is a dining event which partners with local restaurants to attract new and loyal customers, demonstrate commitment to the community, gain critical media exposure, and be part of the National Urban League movement. The first MB Night Out will be held on Friday, January 13 at Le Fleur de Lis in Bronzeville from 4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. Twenty-five percent of all sales from the evening will be donated to MetroBoard to raise funds for vital community service projects and professional and personal development programs. Join us for exquisite Creole cuisine, music, karaoke, friends and more.
Event Specific Details are available by visiting http://mbnightout.eventbrite.com

About the Metropolitan Board
The 2008 and 2009 NULYP Chapter of Excellence Award recipient is a Chicago Urban League auxiliary of young professionals committed to promoting and supporting the ideas and goals of the National Urban League movement throughout Chicago through community outreach, fundraising and membership development. Please visit metroboard.org for additional information.

Media Inquiries:
pr@metroboard.org
For information contact:
fundraising@metroboard.org
###

MetroBoard Night Out at Le Fleur de Lis – Raising Funds for Community Projects | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

You are invited to join International Performance Painter
Elliott From
as he celebrates the opening of
Artbeat Live! Studios
… Open House
2 * 11 * 2012
3pm – 11pm

Harry Peter Project performance:
7:30 – 10:30

In 2007 Elliott was called to Performance Art. In this limited & uncharted territory he found his niche.

His unique style led to performances at the 2010 Winter Olympics,
Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup Championship & appearances on WGN, CBS & ABC.

Combining his innate artistic talent with his desire to help, Elliott works with local and national charities and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for those less fortunate. This is a cornerstone of his intention.

Come and join Elliott for a celebration of Art & Music

Artbeat Live Studios
11 W. College Dr. Unit N
Arlington Heights, Il 60004
847-431-0460

All paintings in the gallery are up for sale and a portion of the sales will be donated to charity.

Thanks for supporting Artbeat Live!
Sincerely,

Elliott From
Artbeat Live

http://www.artbeatlive.com

Artbeat Live! Studios Grand Opening 2-11-2012 | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Lindemann places 10 to 12 logs of high-quality, kiln-dried oak in easy-to-handle red burlap bags and leaves one bag with each basic service.  Afterward, customers can drive to the company in Lake Bluff and take 12 more bags at a time – up to 36 bags — which signals time for the next cleaning. Bags are easy to carry, to load into a trunk or SUV, and drive home.

Lindemann believes it’s the only fireplace and chimney service company in America providing free firewood.  And it believes the equivalent cost of firewood over time pays for the cleaning and inspection.  Cleaning removes creosote – a fire-hazard tar inside chimneys – with triple-filter HEPA vacuums and protections to keep the home clean.  Inspections include careful visual and video scans of the fireplace and chimney lining seeking cracked/missing mortar or bricks that cause problems.

Lindemann has been a leading Chicagoland fireplace and chimney service organization for 43 years.  They offer highest-quality services with highly-trained and nationally-credentialed technicians.  Lindemann is recognized for industry leadership and technology and sets standards in its field.  For information on Free Firewood for Life, check www.cleanfireplace.comor call 847-450-0552.                                                                ###

Free Firewood for Life in Chicagoland | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.