TORONTO and CHICAGO, Dec. 7, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ – HIM Monegy, Inc. (Monegy®), a boutique high yield fixed income investment manager and member of BMO Global Asset Management, today announced the hiring of two individuals as it continues to strengthen its team of financial professionals.

Rory Buchalter has been appointed Director and Senior Credit Analyst; and Bobby Missar has joined Monegy as an Analyst. Both will be based in Toronto.

“We’re delighted to have Rory and Bobby join our team,” said Sadhana Valia, President of Monegy. “In concert with the growth of our business, we continue to add depth and breadth to the team, ensuring we remain well positioned to meet our clients’ investment objectives while providing exceptional client service.”

Mr. Buchalter has 19 years of experience in corporate and financial markets, including a strong credit background across the risk and industry spectrum. He brings considerable high yield experience in both North American and European markets. Most recently, he led the global credit efforts of a specialist investment management firm, focusing on issuer credit risk analysis as well as the analysis and valuation of distressed structured finance transactions. Previously, Mr. Buchalter held a senior role at a large rating agency for six years, which included coverage of the Telecommunications sector. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from McMaster University and received his CFA Charter in 1999.

Mr. Missar comes to Monegy from Bank of Montreal’s Private Client Group. He will play an important role in supporting the firm’s investment team and in servicing its global client base.

About Monegy®

Monegy® is an indirect subsidiary of Bank of Montreal and a member of BMO Global Asset Management, a global asset management firm with assets of over US$100 billion as of October 31, 2011. Monegy is a boutique fixed income investment management firm specializing in managing credit risk assets, including high yield corporate bonds and bank loans. Monegy professionals have been dedicated managers of high yield assets for more than 12 years and have extensive experience managing portfolios through credit cycles and across markets. Over this period they have succeeded in delivering above market returns with considerably lower than market volatility.

SOURCE BMO Financial Group

Monegy Strengthens Team With Addition of Two New Hires | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, 15 de noviembre de 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Feed The Children, una de las fundaciones de caridad más grandes de EE.UU., está uniendo fuerzas con Univisión Radio, la estación de radio líder en Chicago, para recaudar donaciones y ayudar a familias durante un “radiotón” que se llevará a cabo los días 17 y 18 de noviembre.

El dinero recaudado permitirá llevar tres semi-remolques llenos de alimentos y artículos esenciales a 1,200 familias de Humboldt Park, La Villita y Pilsen.

Feed The Children se ha asociado con San Lucas United Church of Christ, Little Village Chamber of Commerce y el Pilsen Wellness Center para proveer asistencia a familias necesitadas. Cada organización recibirá cupones que permitirán a una familia recibir una caja de 25 libras con alimentos no perecederos suficientes para alimentar a una familia de cuatro durante una semana.  Además, una caja de 10 libras con productos de cuidado personal y productos de Avon.

“Además de reunir fondos, queremos concientizar a la gente de cómo se pueden involucrar en su comunidad y ayudar a combatir el hambre entre los niños”, dice Mónica Linville, Directora del Programa de Operaciones Internacionales para Latinoamérica de Feed The Children. “A través de donaciones generosas, estaremos en capacidad de continuar brindando cajas con alimentos y artículos esenciales a las familias más necesitadas”.

La distribución en Chicago forma parte de la campaña hispana de Feed The Children, que estará ayudando a familias hispanas a nivel nacional en el año 2012.

“Feed The Children se acercó a nosotros en un momento muy oportuno”, expresó Nilda Esparza, Directora Ejecutiva de Little Village Chamber of Commerce (la Cámara de Comercio de La Villita). “Una mano que brinde ayuda durante estos tiempos económicos difíciles es una bendición durante la época de Acción de Gracias”.

Casi uno de cada tres niños que viven en Chicago (30.6 por ciento) está en riesgo de sufrir de hambre. Hay aproximadamente 535,160 niños empobrecidos en Illinois. Las tasas de desempleo y de pobreza en Chicago son más altas que los promedios nacionales.  

“Nuestros radioescuchas son generosos cuando se trata de llevar esperanza a los niños”, manifestó Doug Levy, Vicepresidente/Gerente General de Univisión Radio Chicago. “Estamos comprometidos a apoyar la misión de Feed the Children y hacer de esta campaña un éxito”.

La campaña hispana de Feed The Children se lleva a cabo hasta el 11 de diciembre de 2011. Para hacer una donación, llame al 1-800-538-5255 o vaya a www.feedthechildren.org/comida.

Acerca de Feed The Children

Fundada en 1979, Feed The Children es calificada continuamente como una de las 10 fundaciones internacionales de caridad más grandes de los Estados Unidos, basándose en el apoyo de carácter privado, no gubernamental. Nuestra misión es proveer esperanza y recursos para quienes no tienen lo esencial para vivir. En el año fiscal 2010, Feed The Children distribuyó más de 133 millones de libras de alimentos y otros artículos esenciales a niños y familias en todos los 50 estados, así como internacionalmente. Para obtener más información, visite www.feedthechildren.org.

Contacto:
Becky López
becky@sayhitopaco.com

FUENTE  Feed The Children

FUENTE Feed The Children

http://www.feedthechildren.org

Feed The Children y Univisión Radio unen fuerzas para ayudar a 1,200 familias hispanas de Chicago | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, Oct. 25, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — The October 17 release of “Economic Costs of Excessive Alcohol Consumption in the U.S.” elevates the importance of companies planning safe and healthy office parties. The Workplace Well-being Committee of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce is hosting an afterhours “Office Party” November 3 to encourage companies to have safe and healthy parties. Guests will enjoy new pairings of food and drinks, but the drinks will be alcohol free. Office Party is going to the extreme to be a live laboratory for guests to mingle casually, get to know new people, reacquaint with others and capitalize on networking opportunities. All will be focused and alert when they leave.

The message of the Workplace Well-being Committee is that even where a culture of health and wellness is a priority; there are still too many workplace stigmas when it comes to alcohol. “…we still live and work in a culture – sometimes referred to as a ‘man’s world’ – that attaches a little gravitas to a drink that is brown or white and served with as little froufrou as possible,” said executive coach Jill Bremer for Crain’s Chicago Business (10/17/11 For women executives, there’s still a glass ceiling – of sorts).  An editorial reply the following week offers optimism. “I have been to many a business affair and enjoyed a fruit-tini concoction with no problem,” said Virginia Ann Primack (10/24/11 All cocktails created equal).

Office Party demonstrates that alcohol free is an alternative for those who are partying then driving a vehicle and a choice if your medical condition prevents you from drinking alcoholic beverages; if you are pregnant and not able to drink alcohol; and for those who are in recovery or avoiding a binge but would still enjoy tasteful beverages.

The cost of excessive alcohol consumption in the United States in 2006 reached $223.5 billion or about $1.90 per drink, according to a new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Almost three–quarters of these costs were due to binge drinking, consuming four or more alcoholic beverages per occasion for women or five or more drinks per occasion for men, the report said. Researchers found the costs largely resulted from losses in workplace productivity (72 percent of the total cost), health care expenses for problems caused by excessive drinking (11 percent of the total cost), law enforcement and other criminal justice expenses related to excessive alcohol consumption (9 percent of the total cost), and motor vehicle crash costs from impaired driving (6 percent of the total cost).

“This landmark study highlights the enormous costs that excessive alcohol consumption inflicts on the individuals involved and on society in general,” said Pamela S. Hyde, administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “It also reinforces the importance of addressing behavioral health issues, including substance abuse, through our health care system.” The study, “Economic Costs of Excessive Alcohol Consumption in the U.S., 2006,” is published online at http://www.ajpmonline.org/, and in the November 2011 issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

The vision of Chicagoland Chamber’s Workplace Well-Being Committee is to enable small and medium for-profit and non-profit enterprises to have workplaces free of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, and free of the safety, productivity and morale issues they cause. The objective is for the Workplace Well-Being Committee and staff to offer solutions that employers implement to improve workplace well-being with addiction prevention practices and services because they understand “Why” there are health and talent returns on their investments (ROI). Committee members include experts from well-being related fields of behavioral health, medicine, wellness, social work, employee assistance, background screening and drug testing.

The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce was the first regional chamber of commerce in the United States and has served independent businesses throughout the metropolitan area since 1904. The Chamber’s more than 2,600 members employ more than one million individuals throughout the region.  The mission of the Chicagoland Chamber is to make Chicagoland the most business-friendly region in America and enhance our members’ success through aggressive programs of advocacy, member benefits and services and actionable information. Visit the Chamber’s website at www.chicagolandchamber.org.

Peggy Luce
312-494-6745
pluce@chicagolandchamber.org

SOURCE Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

http://www.chicagolandchamber.org
http://www.cdc.gov

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

CHICAGO, September 15, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Next Tuesday, Chicago will host one of the largest foreign delegations in the city’s history.

Over 40 leaders from India’s business and government will participate in the U.S.-India Economic Summit, hosted by The Executives’ Club of Chicago in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

The distinguished group will include the Ministers of Commerce, Industry and Textiles as well as the Ministers of New and Renewable Energy and Power. They will discuss business opportunities, growth sectors and new policies affecting foreign investment.

The expected audience of 300 includes participants from as far away as Washington, DC, Minnesota and Kentucky.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel will open the Summit and Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon will close the event. The dozens of speakers in between include the new Ambassador of India to the United States, Nirupama Rao, who will make her first speech as Ambassador.

India’s connections to Chicago are many. In addition to the many professionals and students, Chicago’s companies are finding opportunities in India and vice versa. Schneider Electric North America, whose CEO Chris Curtis will speak at lunch, has 31 industrial sites in India, and has announced 4,000 retail outlets by 2012 as well as plans to design and manufacture three solar plants generating 35 gigawatts.

“This is a city-wide effort. The Executives’ Club is delighted to be working with The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, the American India Foundation, the Delhi Committee of Chicago Sister Cities, and the India Chamber of Commerce,” said David Nelms, CEO of Discover Financial Services and Chairman of The Executives’ Club of Chicago.

Chicago companies are also excited. Sponsors include American Airlines, Deloitte, CME, Discover, Baxter, ITW, BMO Financial, Mesirow, Nalco, S&C, Potash, and Boeing.

“The Executives’ Club has a rich tradition of bringing global business leaders such as His Excellency Anand Sharma and Ambassador Rao to Chicago, and Deloitte is proud to support the Club’s efforts to serve as a voice for the Chicagoland region in the international business community,” said Deb DeHaas, vice chairman and Central region managing partner for Deloitte LLP. “As India has become a strategic market for global business growth by Chicagoland companies, forums like the U.S.-India Summit are critical to understanding the right strategies for successful expansion into the Indian market, as well as the potential impact to our regional economy and workforce.”

A video message from the Secretary of Energy as well as letters from Senator Dick Durban and Governor Pat Quinn will be delivered at the Summit.

A statement by one of the attendees, who said he ‘usually has to travel to New York for this type of thing’, captures the growing sentiment of Chicago’s importance for international business. For companies with operations or interests in India, this is one event not to be missed.

Event Details
Tuesday, September 20, 2011 from 7:30 – 6:00 p.m.
The Fairmont Chicago, 200 N. Columbus Drive, Chicago, IL

The Executives’ Club of Chicago is a business forum for thought leadership, professional development, and best business practices. Founded in 1911, The Club is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious business organizations. The Executives’ Club serves Chicago’s business community by providing information and resources needed to establish effective global partnerships, enhance intellectual exchange, develop future diverse business leaders, and promote Chicago as a world class global business center.

SOURCE The Executives’ Club of Chicago

http://www.executivesclub.org

Chicago Businesses Learn About Opportunities in India at Summit | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Director Warren Ribley today announced more than $5 million in federal stimulus funds to help Illinois businesses purchase equipment and retool to expand into the green sector and create jobs. 

“The green industry is a growing employment sector that will be critical to Illinois’ economic recovery,” said Director Ribley.  “By helping Illinois manufacturers retrofit their businesses to incorporate green technology, we are creating jobs, strengthening our economy and helping Illinois businesses grow.”

The Green Industry Business Development Grants are being funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and are part of the State Energy Plan.  The funding will help five Illinois businesses create and retain nearly 200 jobs.  The project cities include Decatur, Rockford, Vernon Hills, Carol Stream and Chicago.  This is the second round of Green Industry Business Development Grants awarded to Illinois businesses; the first round resulted in more than $42.1 million in awards to 21 businesses.

Through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, Illinois received over $130 million to implement the State’s Energy Plan, Illinois’ comprehensive blueprint to address the state’s energy production needs.  More than 12,000 green sector jobs are being created over the next two years as a result of the Plan, which is administered by DCEO’s State Energy Office.  For more information, visit www.ildceo.net.

The State Energy Office awarded Green Industry Business Development grants through ARRA to the following organizations:

State’s Economic Development Director Announces More Than $5 Million in Federal Grants to Help Illinois Businesses Go Green, Create Jobs – Investments in Green Economy will Create and Retain Nearly 200 Jobs | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, Aug. 3, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Lyons Consulting Group (lyonscg), the premier eCommerce design, development and support firm, has recently launched their latest client site, www.mmawarehouse.com, developed on the Demandware platform.  

MMA Warehouse, a mixed martial arts retailer, was not satisfied with their previous eCommerce platform because of its inability to handle the structure and growth of their online business. MMA Warehouse asked lyonscg to develop a site to be built on the Demandware platform, and have advanced capabilities including multi-site opportunities and complete self-management through the backend, giving MMA Warehouse the ability to make quick and easy changes without having to submit a ticket. Other features to the MMA Warehouse site include an upgrade in power reviews from express to enterprise level to better accommodate their growing business as well as an added compare product functionality to allow customers to easily compare martial arts gear.

Because of a recent comprehensive reseller agreement, lyonscg is able to directly provide a one-stop commerce solution on the Demandware Commerce platform for MMA Warehouse, and other online retailers. This allows lyonscg to secure Demandware licensing agreements and front-line support and to deliver turnkey enterprise-level ecommerce websites, ultimately making it even easier for online retailers, such as MMA Warehouse, to launch their eCommerce websites.

“We had outgrown our previous platform and were lacking in the latest functionality,” said Mika Casey, CEO of MMA Warehouse. “Lyons Consulting Group has the experience in building strong enterprise-level eCommerce solutions and because of their agreement with Demandware, has the ability to be the singular answer to our eCommerce needs.”

“Our clients trust us to build reliable eCommerce solutions that will provide them with scalability,” said Rich Lyons, CEO and Founder of Lyons Consulting Group. “Building their site on the Demandware platform was a great choice for MMA and will definitely give them the needed flexibility as their business grows.”

The MMA Warehouse site was launched on August 2, 2011. MMA Warehouse is continuing to work with Lyons Consulting Group to design and develop several microsites.

About MMA Warehouse

MMA Warehouse is an online-only mixed martial arts retailer focused on offering an end-to-end product selection for both MMA fans and athletes.  The company’s flagship website, MMAWarehouse.com (www.mmawarehouse.com), was founded in 2004 and has earned industry-leading customer service ratings and accolades.  The website offers the latest products, detailed product descriptions and images, custom sizing charts, as well as customer reviews.  MMA Warehouse is headquartered in Wheeling, IL.

About Lyons Consulting Group (lyonscg)

Lyons Consulting Group is the premier eCommerce design, development and support firm dedicated to help clients continually grow and succeed in their online business.  With a proven track record to deliver creative, robust and most importantly, increasingly profitable eCommerce sites, our diverse group of experts are committed to customer satisfaction and project excellence.

As the leading Magento and Demandware partner in the US, lyonscg has years of experience in eCommerce creative design, platform customization, technical development, backend integration, quality assurance and support. lyonscg understands each of their client’s sites and needs are unique, yet are able to deliver each and every time. Bottom Line: Lyons Consulting Group will help your online business know more, do more, and sell more. Guaranteed. For more information about lyonscg or to see their extensive list of clients, visit www.lyonscg.com or call 312.564.3142.

SOURCE Lyons Consulting Group

http://www.lyonscg.com
http://www.mmawarehouse.com

MMA Warehouse Launches New Demandware Site | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

ROCK ISLAND – While welcoming national and international visitors to the Rock Island Train Festival today, Lt. Governor Sheila Simon encouraged Iowa Governor Terry Branstad to finalize his state’s rail plan and move forward with design and construction of a Chicago to Iowa City rail connection.

Progress on the Chicago to Moline portion of the line is moving slowly, as federal funding will not be released to Illinois until Iowa decides whether it will provide matching state funds for the Moline to Iowa City extension, Simon said.  

“I want to see leaders in Illinois and Iowa working together to bring passenger rail from Chicago to Iowa City so we can create jobs, spur economic development and provide a fast, affordable connection between these vibrant communities,” Lt. Governor Simon said at the festival’s kick-off ceremonies.  

In 2010, Governor Quinn announced a federal commitment of $230 million to the rail project to supplement $45 million in state capital funds. The federal portion was issued jointly to Iowa and Illinois and will not be released until both parties agree to the project implementation. If Iowa provides its state’s matching share, the project can begin. Should Iowa decline, Illinois will receive its portion of the federal funds and can proceed with plans for rail construction between Chicago and Moline.

Additional state and federal funding has been secured for construction of a new multimodal station in Moline. Early estimates show that with station and rail line, the state could stand to gain upwards of 1,100 construction jobs and 3,500 other direct and indirect jobs.

“Since 2007, the Quad Cities Chamber has led a broad-based Quad Cities Passenger Rail Coalition (QC Rail) to advocate for restored passenger rail service to Chicago,” said Tara Barney, Chief Executive Officer of the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce. “Through QC Rail, over 10,000 Quad-Cities area residents, elected officials, businesses, labor groups and community organizations have expressed their support for passenger rail to local, state and federal officials.”  

The Quad Cities have not had passenger rail service since the late 1970s. Under the proposed service, two daily round trips will transport passengers to and from the Quad Cities in just over three hours. As planned, train service would continue west to Iowa City, and, per the nine-state Midwest Regional Rail Initiative, eventually on to Omaha, Nebraska.  

Simon to Iowa: Make decision on rail funding – Calls on Iowa to accept funding, allow continuation of construction plan | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Originally reported by Illinois Statehouse News. Read the original article here.

Illinois data site little now, promises of up-side | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

By Benjamin Yount Illinois Statehouse News
 

SPRINGFIELD  —  If it’s not broken, then don’t fix it has apparently become if it is broken, then destroy it at the Illinois Capitol.

After months of working to find agreement on possible reforms to Illinois’ workers’ compensation system, southern Illinois State Rep John Bradley, D-Marion, said he’s scrapping the cooperative approach.

“The workers’ comp system in Illinois broken,” he said. “It’s my belief that it’s gotten to a point where the best thing to do is just abolish it, and send the cases back to circuit court.”

Bradley’s frustration was obvious at a Wednesday hearing in Springfield when he broke the news that it is his intention to start over with workers’ comp.

“If at some point in the future we want to revisit, start a workers’ comp commission, fine.  But we can start from scratch,” he said.

Workers’ comp has become a focus for a number of groups at the Illinois Capitol this spring.  The costs, which rank Illinois among the most expensive states for workers’ comp, are blamed in part for the state’s “bad for business” reputation. 

Bradley had been trying to negotiate between labor unions, doctors and hospitals, insurance companies, trial lawyers, and business groups.  The different groups all want something different, or don’t want many changes at all. 

Bradley said he’s had enough.

“Let’s get rid of the system that we know isn’t working, lets try something new. … Let’s make a stand together as legislators and say enough is enough,” he said.

But enough may be too much for the Illinois Chamber of Commerce.  One of the state’s largest business groups, the group said they want changes to workers’ comp, but not create an entirely new system, or have no system at all, said Jay Shattuck with the chamber.

“I would certainly agree that the workers’ comp system is broken,” Shattuck said. “Now throwing out the structure without (having) what we think is an adequate structure is not a solution either.”

Bradley’s burn-it-down strategy may be a sign of frustration, or may be a move to get recalcitrant Republicans toward an agreement.  It may be working as well.  Metro East freshman Dwight Kay, R-Glenn Carbon, said he’s all for a bold plan.  But isn’t sure if Bradley’s plan is the one.

“This system as I see it, can be fixed,” Kay said. “If we had the political will and the determination, and frankly just the guts to stand-up and do it.”

Gov. Pat Quinn, who has had to jump on the workers’ comp reform bandwagon after getting scolded for the state’s business climate recently, said he’s not 100 percent behind Bradley’s plan.

“We appreciate Rep. Bradley’s active and constructive engagement on this complex issue. Governor Quinn has made workers’ compensation reform a priority and has taken the lead on this issue,” said spokeswoman Brie Callahan, “The governor has offered a proposal that will bring meaningful reform, and we continue to work to achieve workers compensation reform this session.”

Bradley’s proposal is headed for a vote in the Illinois House.

Originally reported by Illinois Statehouse News. Read the original article here.

Workers’ comp reform plan: Destroy it | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

By Benjamin Yount Illinois Statehouse News

SPRINGFIELD  — Illinois recent jump in income tax across the board is getting a lot of attention after the leader of Caterpillar Corp. says other states are wooing him to relocate.

But business and legislative leaders in the Illinois Capitol say the state’s business climate is a lot more than tax rates.

The top Democrat and Republican in the Illinois Senate spokes to local chambers of commerce from across central Illinois Tuesday, saying they doubt Caterpillar is leaving the state. But they admit there is a lot of work to be done on the state’s overall business climate.

Senate President John Cullerton, D-Chicago, said he had lunch with Oberhelman, Caterpillar’s chief executive officer, and the conversation did not tilt to the recent personal and corporate tax increases.

Oberhelman “said he wanted stability. He said give us a four-year plan that we can work with,” said Cullerton.

The Senate president said he also spoke with other Caterpillar leaders about changing Illinois’ workers’ compensation costs; about addressing the state’s plan to pay billions in past due bills; and about the need for investments in roads, schools and bridges.

The Senate’s GOP boss, Christine Radogno, R-Lemont, said the business climate in Illinois is a lot more than just taxes and workers’ compensation insurance. She said companies look at the total cost, in time and dollars, and find Illinois a bit behind.

“I don’t think (Caterpillar) is threatening. … I think the company is saying they want to work with the state,” Radogno said.

Doug Whitley, president and chief executive officer of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, said Radogno and Cullerton are serious about working to improve the state’s business climate, which Whitley said is refreshing.

“We suffered through a disastrous decade (under Gov. Rod Blagojevich). Now there is a new tone in Springfield,” he said.

But Whitley said lawmakers in Springfield have a little more than two months to find agreement on a host of business climate issues ranging from workers’ compensation insurance, to environmental regulations, to permitting times, to schools, and even to the balancing the state budget.

Watch more from Senate President Cullerton

Watch more from GOP Leader Radogno

Originally reported by Illinois Statehouse News. Read the original article here.

Legislatove, business leaders: Illinois jobs climate more than taxes | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, March 9, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — John C. Robak (BS ’89), Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Greeley and Hansen, a leading environmental engineering and architectural consulting firm headquartered in Chicago, was appointed to serve on the Commerce Advisory Council for the College of Commerce at DePaul University. Dr. Ray Whittington, Dean of the College of Commerce, appointed Mr. Robak to the Council.

“This appointment is truly an honor and I am privileged to be able to serve on this highly-respected Board,” said John C. Robak, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Greeley and Hansen. “As an alumnus of DePaul, I am looking forward to giving back to the University. I believe my years of experience will be beneficial to the Board, the Dean, and the University.”

The Commerce Advisory Council is comprised of business leaders in Chicago who volunteer to advise the Dean on matters including shaping the direction and course curricula of the college. Board members share their business expertise as a complement to the academic scholarly work done by DePaul faculty in order to achieve the goal of providing a relevant and practical business education to DePaul University College of Commerce students.

Dean Whittington commented that he “looks forward to Mr. Robak serving on the Commerce Advisory Council and adding insight from his extensive career in operations and human resources management.”

Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer for Greeley and Hansen, Mr. Robak, 43, oversees the day-to-day internal business operations of this 17-office national firm, and provides oversight to future business planning. He is also responsible for leading all firm-wide human resources, information technology, and corporate communications activities, as well as legal affairs and the firm’s governance system.

Mr. Robak has more than 20 years of wide-ranging human resources and operations management experience for professional services organizations, including GolinHarris, a global public relations agency, where he was Senior Vice President of Corporate Human Resources. He holds an MBA from Loyola University Chicago and a BS in Commerce in Human Resources from DePaul University. Mr. Robak was recently named to the National Board of Directors of Upwardly Global, an internationally recognized nonprofit organization with a mission to eliminate barriers to professional workplace entry for foreign-educated immigrants and refugees in the United States.  Mr. Robak is also a founding member of the Workplace Excellence Committee of the Chicago Chamber of Commerce.

About Greeley and Hansen

Founded in 1914, Greeley and Hansen is a leader in developing innovative engineering solutions for a wide array of water, wastewater, water reuse, and solid waste challenges aimed at improving public health, safety, and welfare. Headquartered in Chicago, Greeley and Hansen has a staff of more than 300 in 17 locations across the U.S. The firm provides services for all phases of projects ranging from master planning and feasibility studies through design, construction, and start-up. Greeley and Hansen has consistently been recognized by the National Association for Business Resources as one of Chicago’s 101 Best & Brightest Places to Work and by the Chicago Tribune as a Top Workplace 2010. For more information about the firm, please visit www.greeley-hansen.com.

SOURCE Greeley and Hansen

http://www.greeley-hansen.com

Greeley and Hansen’s John C. Robak Appointed to Commerce Advisory Council for the College of Commerce at DePaul University | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, Dec. 13, 2010 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Thousands more jobs will be created as a result of broadband and wireless investments throughout the state of Illinois, according to the Illinois Technology Partnership’s (ITP) second quarterly broadband investment tracker.

More than $520 million in broadband and wireless investments have been announced since the tracker was launched in June 2010.  As a result, at least 8,400 jobs could be created and 7 million residences, 300,000 businesses and 8,900 community institutions will be connected to high-speed Internet.  

These numbers are potentially much higher, as last quarter the first 4G network upgrades were announced in the city of Chicago.  Experts estimate the cost of 4G upgrades at $1.78 billion nationwide, and as the third largest metropolitan city in the country, Chicago can expect to see significant investment and job creation as a result.

Looking at the year ahead, Illinois companies are planning for major external investments in many key technology sectors throughout the state.  According to a survey released last week by ITP, the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce and Open Systems Technologies, many firms have major external investments planned in the areas of broadband, smart grid, network operations and wireless.  These investments will directly increase hiring of both full-time and contract employees in areas including mobile and wireless technologies, construction, engineering and information technology. 

“More than half of the technology companies surveyed anticipate hiring between at least one and 20 full-time employees.  That’s up 20 percent from last year,” said Lindsay Mosher, executive director of ITP.  ”As technology companies invest, this will also spur hiring for non-technology related positions in administration, marketing and sales to support this growth.”

Last session, the Illinois General Assembly passed, and Governor Quinn signed, legislation to update Illinois’ 25-year old telecommunications laws, opening the door for new investment.  

“We have been tracking broadband and wireless announcements since June, and in just seven short months, significant investments in our state’s high-speed Internet infrastructure have been put forth,” said Mosher.  ”Innovative public policy can attract investment and create jobs – and as this tracker shows, broadband and wireless investments are great economic drivers.”

Visit www.iltechpartner.org to see ITP’s interactive broadband and wireless investment tracking map.

SOURCE Illinois Technology Partnership, a project of Midwest Consumers for Choice and Competition

http://www.iltechpartner.org

More than $520 Million Invested in Illinois Broadband Since June | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

WASHINGTON – Americans earned more and spent more last month, and the number of people applying for unemployment benefits dropped last week to the lowest level in more than two years. At the same time, demand for long-lasting manufactured goods and new homes fell off.

All told, the latest government data released the day before Thanksgiving suggest an improving picture of the economy. Income and spending are rising, and layoffs are slowing. This comes amid a decline in manufacturing activity, which had been a source of strength for months after the recession ended, and a struggling housing market.

Analysts question whether incomes can continue to grow at a consistent pace and keep consumers spending enough to invigorate the economy.

“The flurry of U.S. data this morning suggests that households have started to pickup the baton of growth from businesses,” said Paul Dales, U.S. economist at Capital Economics. “Whether or not households will be able to shoulder the burden of growth on their own is another matter.”

Investors appeared to be pleased by the data. The Dow Jones industrial average climbed more than 137 points in the early morning trading.

Consumers boosted their spending 0.4 percent in October, the Commerce Department said Wednesday. That was up from a 0.3 percent increase in September.

People showed a slightly bigger appetite to spend because their incomes rose 0.5 percent, reflecting a slowly healing jobs market that gave a boost to wages and salaries. Incomes didn’t grow at all in September. The increases in both income and spending last month were the most since August.

And inflation is running lower at a record low. Prices for goods excluding food and energy rose just 0.9 percent in the 12 months ending in October, the Commerce report noted. That was down from a 1.2 percent annual gain posted in September. Inflation is running at a pace below the Fed’s comfort zone of between 1.5 percent and 2 percent.

“We have a good signal,” John Silvia, chief economist at Wells Fargo, said of the jobless claims and consumer spending reports.

The pace of layoffs slowed to the lowest level since July 2008. Initial jobless claims dropped by 34,000 to a seasonally adjusted 407,000 in the week ending Nov. 20, the Labor Department said. The report raised hopes that more gains in hiring will be seen.

Still, another report showed that orders to U.S. factories for costly manufactured goods plunged in October by the largest amount in 21 months.

Durable-goods orders dropped 3.3 percent last month, the biggest setback since January 2009, when the country was still mired in a recession.

Of special concern was a 4.5 percent drop in orders for nondefense capital goods, excluding aircraft. This category is viewed as a good proxy for business investment plans. It was the biggest drop since a 5.3 percent fall in July.

Meanwhile, sales of new homes fell in October to near a record low and home prices dropped to the lowest point in seven years.

Sales of new single-family homes declined 8.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 283,000 units in October, Commerce said in another report. That was just 2.9 percent above the all-time low of 275,000 units hit in August for government records that go back to 1963.

The median price of a home sold in October dipped to $194,900, the lowest level since October 2003.

Even with the pickup in spending, consumers are still shying away from the type of buying needed to dramatically lower the 9.6 unemployment rate.

Normally after a recession, consumers spend more freely. But more than one year after the recession ended, Americans are more focused on getting their personal finances in order. They are paring down debt, watching their spending and building savings.

Americans saved 5.7 percent of their disposable income in October. That was up from 5.6 percent in September and was the most since August. Before the recession, they were saving just over 1 percent.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and other economists worry that high unemployment, hard-to-get-credit, weak home values and lackluster wage growth are forces that will restrain the growth in consumer spending.

To counter that and try to invigorate the economy, the Fed recently launched a $600 billion program to buy government bonds. By doing so, the Fed hopes to boost stock prices and make loans cheaper, positive developments that could make people want to spend more.

Even faced with all the negative forces, Americans are still buying. That’s important because their spending accounts for roughly 70 percent of all economic output. With consumers holding up, fears the economy could slip back into a recession have receded.

In the July-September quarter, consumer spending grew at a 2.8 percent pace, the most in nearly four years.

Leading economists in an AP Economy Survey predict consumer spending will grow at a 2.4 percent pace in the October-December quarter. Consumer spending would need to grow by at least twice that pace to translate into the type of robust economic growth to make a big dent in the nation’s unemployment rate.

The nation’s unemployment rate has been stuck at 9.6 percent unemployment rate for the past three months. New projections from Federal Reserve suggest that won’t change much for a few years.

___

AP Economics Writers Christopher Rugaber and Martin Crutsinger contributed to this report.

Consumers spend and earn more, layoffs slow | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

BRADY: Yes, they have been involved. I believe they’re leaders in the Latino community. They did host a fundraiser for me to help encourage support within the Latino Chamber of Commerce and the various chambers of commerce within the Latino community.

After the debate, Quinn pounced.

QUINN: Apparently, the only time he wants to deal with the Blagojevich Administration is when it comes to raising money for himself. I think we need some answers there.

In response, Brady criticized Quinn for not “purging” state government of people appointed by the convicted ex-governor. And Brady denies there’s any hypocrisy in his decision to accept fundraising help from former Blagojevich hires.

Originally reported by Chicago Public Radio. Read the original article here.

Quinn and Brady Push Each Other’s Blagojevich Connections | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) – EBay Inc posted a better-than-expected quarterly profit and forecast stronger holiday earnings as the Internet commerce company enjoys robust growth at PayPal while striving to reinvigorate its main marketplaces unit.

The company also raised its full-year revenue and profit forecast and its shares rose 7.3 percent in after-hours trading.

EBay, which began as an online auction house, but sees most of its sales at fixed prices, is in the latter half of a three-year turnaround focused on its marketplaces unit.

The company competes with Amazon.com Inc and a host of e-commerce retailers, all of whom are hoping to appeal to cost-conscious shoppers still pressured by high unemployment and a sluggish U.S. economy.

The company, which also owns PayPal, expects fourth-quarter revenue of $2.39 billion to $2.49 billion, with adjusted earnings per share of 45 cents to 48 cents.

That is above the 44 cents per share on revenue of $2.4 billion that analysts have been expecting, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.

“This is good across all their businesses,” said UBS analyst Brian Pitz, adding the results and forecast would improve lukewarm investor sentiment toward eBay. “They’re starting to see traction with marketplaces and they expect pretty decent results in the fourth quarter.”

For the full year, eBay expects revenues to range between $9.05 billion to $9.15 billion on adjusted earnings of $1.67 to $1.70 per share.

That was above an earlier revenue range of $8.8 billion to $9.0 billion on adjusted earnings per share of $1.60 to $1.65.

“With our U.S. business stabilized, we are making the adjustments necessary to capitalize on the pricing and search changes made earlier this year and we are continuing to innovate around the user experience,” Chief Executive John Donahoe told analysts on a call.

EBay has tried to simplify its process for listing items and lowered upfront fees to encourage more sellers, while focusing on safety measures to protect buyers.

Chief Financial Officer Bob Swan said the marketplaces division should have a “strong performance” in Europe and a “stable performance” in the United States over the holiday season.

The November and December holiday season is a key selling period for e-commerce players and their brick-and-mortar rivals. Market research firm comScore said last week that holiday online spending could rise between 7 percent and 9 percent this season.

Investors are awaiting a holiday forecast from Amazon.com when it reports third-quarter results on Thursday. Amazon is generally expected to dominate e-commerce holiday sales as it fosters shopper loyalty and cuts prices.

Analysts, on average, expect Amazon to post a 36 percent gain in 2010 revenue, compared with the 5 percent eBay expects at its high end.

Amazon shares are up 67 percent from a year ago as of Wednesday’s Nasdaq close, compared with a 2.4 percent rise at eBay.

STABLE MARKETPLACE

EBay’s third-quarter net profit was $431.9 million, or 33 cents per share, from $350 million, or 27 cents per share, a year earlier.

Excluding Web telephone unit Skype, which the company sold, earnings were 40 cents per share, above the 37 cents that analysts were expecting, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.

Revenue rose 1 percent to $2.25 billion, above the $2.18 billion that analysts expected. Revenue in the marketplaces segment rose 3 percent to $1.41 billion, while revenue in payments, which includes PayPal, rose 22 percent.

Gross merchandise volume excluding vehicles — which measures the total value of goods sold on eBay — rose 3 percent in the quarter.

The company’s shares rose to $27.54 after closing at $25.66 on the Nasdaq.

(Reporting by Alexandria Sage; editing by Robert MacMillan and Andre Grenon)

EBay beats and raises, sees improved holiday (Reuters) | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

October 19, 2010 3:54 PM ET

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – An audit claims energy-efficiency work on homes in the Chicago area paid for by federal stimulus program money was substandard, overpriced and poorly monitored.

The U.S. Energy Department’s inspector general released a report Tuesday saying 14 of 15 homes visited failed an inspection because of poor workmanship. At ten homes contractors were overpaid about $3,300 for materials not installed or work not done.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is administering Illinois $242 million, 3-year share of the $5 billion weatherization program.

It responded that none of the 15 homes reviewed had passed the state’s final inspection and that inspectors had caught billing mistakes and not overpaid anyone.

Online: http://www.ig.energy.gov/143.htm

Copyright 2010

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October 19, 2010 4:44 PM ET

DECATUR, Ill. – The state Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity says it will give a $15 million tax credit to a Decatur-based food processor to open a 160-job facility in a Chicago suburb. The move will mean central Illinois will lose jobs.

The department ways without the move the Tate & Lyle PLC Commercial and Food Innovation Center planned for Hoffman Estates and its 160 jobs would have been located outside Illinois.

Tate & Lyle says the new Hoffman Estates office will be the headquarters for three divisions currently based in Decatur.

Decatur will lose what it says will be less than a hundred jobs in the process. But Mayor Mike McElroy said Tuesday the city is happy the company is leaving some of its jobs in the city

Copyright 2010

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CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn announced a $3.5 million investment package Tuesday for fast-growing online shopping company Groupon.

Company officials say the money will lead to 250 new jobs at its headquarters in Chicago.

The investment package includes a mix of corporate tax income credits over the next 10 years and job training funds.

“Groupon is truly owned by the state and owned by the city,” said co-founder Eric Lefkofsky. He said the funding will help the company continue to expand.

Groupon has grown from seven employees in 2008 to more than 900 in Chicago and 2,500 worldwide. Company president Rob Solomon estimates the site has more than 25 million subscribers, and officials say its “deal-of-the-day” is offered in more than 300 markets around the world.

Groupon – a name that combines parts of the words “group” and “coupon” – features daily group discounts via the Web.

Local businesses offer potential customers deep discounts on products, services, cultural events and restaurants for a limited time, and only if a certain number of other people also take advantage of the deal.

Most deals are for 50, 60 or 70 percent off. Groupon and the local business share the resulting revenue.

Groupon has said it has about 30,000 clients whose products and services it offers.

Quinn said the state’s investment through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is necessary to attract – and keep- rapidly expanding companies like Groupon in the state.

“This is a competitive environment,” he said. “We want to encourage companies to create jobs here in Illinois.”

The new Groupon jobs will be in departments including sales, marketing, software development and human resources, Solomon said.

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Spanish-language TV Icon Helps Inspire Entrepreneurs and Promote $5,000 Grants To Support Business Growth

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., Oct. 18 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — To recognize the value and importance of small business growth across the country, Sears Holdings is conducting a competition that will award four $5,000 grants to small businesses with the Tu Empresa, Tu Futuro/Your Company, Your Future grant competition starting this October through December 31, 2010.  According to the U.S. Commerce Department’s Minority Business Development Agency and the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanic-owned firms increased by 43.7 percent, more than twice the national rate, between 2002 and 2007.  With small business representing 99.7 percent of all employer firms, Sears Holdings aims to encourage growth within this segment of the economy.

Business owners can enter by completing an online form and submitting a brief essay on what inspired them to create their businesses.  Entrants also can refer up to four friends to participate.

In a further effort to encourage small business owners, Sears Holdings enlisted the help of well-known Hispanic journalist, talk show host and entrepreneur Cristina Saralegui, who recently launched an exclusive soft home line collection, Casa Cristina™. The bed and bath collections, currently available at Sears and Kmart stores in both the U.S. and Puerto Rico, were created by Saralegui and inspired by her Miami home as well as memories from her childhood.

“Sears Holdings is proud to do its part to support small businesses in the United States while encouraging business owners to pursue their dreams of economic prosperity,” says David Friedman, SVP and president, Marketing, Sears Holdings. “We were inspired to take on this effort by the recent launch of the new Casa Cristina home line at Sears and Kmart by renowned Hispanic journalist Cristina Saralegui.  As one of the country’s most recognized journalists and entrepreneurs, Cristina is a true example of the American dream.”

Saralegui’s Casa Cristina line, which recently launched at Sears and Kmart stores, is one of the award-winning journalist’s ventures which also include a production studio and a bilingual website.  ”I’m very excited about the opportunity Sears is offering small businesses and as Hispanic Heritage Month draws to a close, I want to encourage Latin-owned businesses to participate and keep striving to make their dreams a reality,” said Saralegui.  ”I’m honored to have inspired the company to take on such an effort.  As a business owner, I know firsthand how valuable it is to feel supported and encouraged.  I urge business owners across the country to go online and register for a chance to win a Tu Empresa, Tu Futuro/Your Company, Your Future Grant.”

To participate, business owners can visit www.sears.com/tuempresatufuturo to register and to view contest rules*.

*No purchase necessary.  A purchase will not increase chances of winning.  Legal residents of the 50 United States (D.C.), 18 years and older who own their own business for at least one (1) year.  Void where prohibited.  Contest ends December 31, 2010.  For official rules and prize descriptions, visit www.sears.com/tuempresatufuturo.  Sponsor: Sears Holdings Management Corporation: 3333 Beverly Rd., Hoffman Estates, IL  60179.

About Sears Holdings Corporation

Sears Holdings Corporation is the nation’s fourth largest broadline retailer with approximately 3,900 full-line and specialty retail stores in the United States and Canada.  Sears Holdings is the leading home appliance retailer as well as a leader in tools, lawn and garden, consumer electronics and automotive repair and maintenance.  Sears Holdings is the 2010 ENERGY STAR® Retail Partner of the Year.  Key proprietary brands include Kenmore, Craftsman and DieHard, and a broad apparel offering, including such well-known labels as Lands’ End, Jaclyn Smith and Joe Boxer, as well as the Apostrophe and Covington brands.  It also has the Country Living collection, which is offered by Sears and Kmart.  We are the nation’s largest provider of home services, with more than 12 million service calls made annually.  Sears Holdings Corporation operates through its subsidiaries, including Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Kmart Corporation.  For more information, visit Sears Holdings’ website at www.searsholdings.com.

About Cristina Saralegui

Twelve–time Emmy® award winning Cristina is one of the most recognizable and trusted names in the Hispanic community. Time magazine selected her as one of the “25 Most Influential Hispanics in America” and Home Furnishings News (HFN) Magazine named her one of the “50 Most Influential People in Design and Home Furnishings.”  Cristina is the host and executive producer of “The Cristina Show” one of the highest rated programs on Spanish-language television airing Monday nights at 10PM on the Univision Network.  Cristina made headlines this summer when she announced that after 21 years she would be ending her show this fall. The last episode of “The Cristina Show” airs on Monday, November 1st.

SOURCE Sears Holdings Corporation

http://www.searsholdings.com

Sears Holdings Teams Up With Cristina Saralegui to Encourage Small Business Growth With Tu Empresa, Tu Futuro/Your Company, Your Future Grants | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

ROCKFORD – October 8, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that the state is providing an $8 million River Edge Redevelopment grant to the City of Rockford to enable the city to continue moving forward with the long-planned revitalization of Rockford’s riverfront and downtown areas. The series of projects, funded through the Illinois Jobs Now! capital program, will create an estimated 160 construction jobs and 110 full-time, permanent jobs, with the potential for hundreds of additional permanent jobs when all the phases are completed.

“We are giving Rockford a tremendous opportunity to put more people to work in the heart of the city and continue our state’s economic recovery,” said Governor Quinn. “The River Edge program allows us to clean up waterfront areas that have suffered from years of neglect, create jobs, and set the stage for more economic revitalization and a better quality of life.”

The City of Rockford is receiving $8 million from the Illinois Jobs Now! capital plan, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), for projects to revitalize the city’s riverfront and downtown areas including:

Market & Recreation District ($3 million)The funded projects include approximately $3 million for improvements for the Outdoor City Market and a building that will house the Indoor City Market and a Center for Civic Design & Planning. Streetscape improvements along East State Street would also be supported.

Innovation & Education District ($3.5 million)A critical component of the new vision for Downtown includes supporting education and innovation as exemplified by Rock Valley College’s announcement this year that it will locate a campus in Downtown Rockford. Governor Quinn will support that development with approximately $2 million to help define and start the development of the old Ingersoll factory site and the Barber-Colman manufacturing site, which are each owned by the City. Both of these facilities are located on the Rock River, and will be served by the new South Main Amtrak passenger rail station and the state’s complete reconstruction of South Main Street. The River Edge funding will help the community detail the vision for the facilities through market and feasibility analysis, architecture and planning, and site preparation and construction. Governor Quinn, recognizing the importance of the city’s efforts to bring the new Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University campus to Rockford, will support campus development within the River Edge Zone with $1.5 million in River Edge funding.

Theater & Entertainment District ($1.5 million)River Edge will also fund $1.5 million in the Downtown Theater & Entertainment District based on Governor Quinn recognizing the growing momentum of the community’s investments in the MetroCentre, Coronado Performing Arts Center, RAVE reorganization, and the Main Street Mall demolition and street improvements. The funding will include $500,000 in additional landscaping and street improvements for Main Street, as well as $1 million in Davis Park area improvements, including financial support for the demolition and environmental clean up of the old Tapco manufacturing site.

“River Edge investments made in the three downtown districts will support the priorities developed in recent years through partners like the River District Association and the Rock River Development Partnership. Governor Quinn’s investments will leverage local public and private sector dollars to create jobs and more opportunities for our citizens,” said Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey.

The River Edge Redevelopment Zone program was created by the Illinois General Assembly to stimulate the safe and cost-effective redevelopment of environmentally challenged areas near rivers through a variety of grants and tax incentives. Rockford, Elgin, Aurora and East St. Louis have all been approved as River Edge Redevelopment Zones.

“The River Edge Redevelopment program was designed to target resources to waterfront areas that have tremendous economic development potential, but are saddled with clean-up costs that put redevelopment out of reach,” said DCEO Director Warren Ribley. “Thanks to Illinois Jobs Now!, Rockford can move forward with its ambitious plans to improve its downtown and create many new jobs.”

Governor Quinn Announces $8 Million River Edge Grant to Revitalize Rockford’s Waterfront – Grant for Environmentally Challenged Areas Will Create 160 Construction Jobs and 110 Permanent Jobs | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.