January 3, 2012

By Lynn Campbell  |  IowaPolitics.com

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

Hundreds pack candidate events on caucus eve; Romney brushes off Occupy protesters | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, Nov. 9, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Today Michelin is offering a sneak peek at what’s in store from MICHELIN Guide Chicago 2012 — the Bib Gourmand selections, which are restaurants serving two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less (tax and gratuity not included). Michelin will announce all selections for its second edition MICHELIN Guide Chicago 2012 on Nov. 15, with copies going on sale Wednesday, Nov. 16, at $18.99.  

Fifty-six Chicago-area restaurants have earned Bib Gourmand status in the latest edition of the MICHELIN Guide. The inspectors in Chicago found an excellent and diverse selection of restaurants meeting the criteria for the Bib Gourmand across the city and in a few of the closer suburbs.

The Bib Gourmand selection represents 21 types of cuisine, including Afghan, barbecue, Mexican and vegetarian. Introduced in the 1997 editions of the MICHELIN Guides in Europe, Bib Gourmand restaurants are identified in the guide by a red symbol depicting the head of Bibendum, the Michelin Man.

Michelin’s anonymous, professional inspectors are unidentified U.S. Michelin employees who eat lunch and dinner in restaurants daily. Michelin inspectors apply the same working methods in all countries, which ensures a uniform, international standard. Inspectors pay all their bills in full, which guarantees an objective experience and report.

The following 56 restaurants are the 2012 Bib Gourmand selections for Chicago:

Readers can start enjoying the MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmands in advance of the Nov. 16 on-sale date. The Chicago Bib Gourmand selections can be found online at www.michelinguide. Michelin inspectors also share insider secrets via Twitter at @MichelinGuideCH.

Enhancing mobility is not only the mission of the MICHELIN Group but also of the MICHELIN Guide, which was created to assist travellers — and motorists in particular — by making their journeys more enjoyable. Now representing 23 countries and three continents, the collection of 27 MICHELIN Guides includes more than 45,000 addresses. In North America, MICHELIN Guides are available for New York City, Chicago, and the San Francisco Bay Area & Wine Country.  For more information, visit www.michelinguide.com.

Michelin has done as much to enhance mobility as any company in the world. The company patented the pneumatic, or air-filled, automobile tire in the late 1800s. This was a milestone moment in mobility; it permitted automobile owners to travel at great length in a single journey. Then, in an effort to prompt travelers to enjoy their newfound mobility, the company created guides — and detailed maps — to steer travelers on their way.

SOURCE Michelin

http://www.michelinguide.com

Michelin Reveals Chicago’s ‘Bib Gourmand’ Restaurants for 2012 | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

BEAUMONT, TX—A 24-year-old Beaumont, Texas man has been sentenced to federal prison for federal crimes in connection with a crime spree targeting area convenience stores and fast food restaurants in the Eastern District of Texas announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales today.

Robert Lee White pleaded guilty on March 31, 2011 to two counts of Hobbs Act robbery, and two counts of brandishing a firearm in a crime of violence. Today, U.S. District Judge Ron Clark sentenced White to 40 years in federal prison for those crimes.

Two more Beaumont residents, John Wesley Batiste, Jr., 23, and Savana Marie Miller, 25, pleaded guilty to similar charges on July 28, 2011. The three were originally named in a 24-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Jan. 27, 2011.

According to information presented in court, the crime spree began on Oct. 22, 2010, when White and Batiste agreed to rob a convenience store in order to obtain extra cash. The same day, after Batiste provided White with a pistol-grip shotgun, the two robbed the Sunshine Food Store on West Virginia. White entered the store with the shotgun and robbed the clerk while Batiste acted as the lookout and getaway driver. On Oct. 25, 2010, White and Batiste returned to the same Sunshine Food Store and attempted to rob it in the same manner. Less than an hour later, after returning Batiste to his home, White robbed the Sunshine Food Store on Concord. On Oct. 27, 2010, the two men attempted a robbery at the Subway on South 11th Street before White alone successfully robbed the Tri-Stop Grocery on Tram Road. On Nov. 2, 2010, White and Batiste successfully robbed the Subway on 11th Street with assistance from Miller, who was employed at the location and allowed White entrance through the backdoor. During this robbery, White struck Miller’s manager with the butt of the shotgun while Miller pretended to be a victim. Batiste acted as the lookout and getaway driver. On Nov. 11, 2010, White robbed the Neighborly Store on North Major Drive. On Nov. 14, 2010, White returned to the Sunshine Food Store on Concord and again robbed that location. On Nov. 24, 2010, White robbed the Cool Stop located on College. On Nov. 26, 2010, White robbed the Pick n’ Shop on South Major Drive and then returned to the store the next evening and robbed it again. Later on Nov. 27, 2010, White again robbed the Cool Stop on College. On Nov. 29, Beaumont Police officers stopped White as he was casing the Neighborly Store on Major Drive. During the traffic stop, officers located evidence related to the robberies, including a silver .357 revolver. The next day, Beaumont Police detectives executed a search warrant and located the pistol grip shotgun at Batiste and Miller’s residence.

Sentencing dates for Batiste and Miller have not been set. Under federal law, where there are multiple counts of brandishing a firearm in a crime of violence, the first conviction is punishable by a minimum of seven years in federal prison, and additional convictions are punishable by a minimum of 25 years in prison, and each sentence must be served consecutively to any other sentence.

The case is being prosecuted as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is aimed at reducing gun and gang violence, deterring illegal possession of guns, ammunition and body armor, and improving the safety of residents in the Eastern District of Texas. Participants in the initiative include community members and organizations as well as federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

This case is being investigated by the FBI, the ATF, and the Beaumont Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John B. Ross.

Beaumont Resident Sentenced to 40 Years for Federal Crimes Related to 11 Area Robberies | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill., Sept. 30, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Restaurant.com, the company that offers affordable dining experiences at more than 18,000 restaurants nationwide, announced today its 90 percent off dollar-stretching megadeal has been extended through the end of today, Friday, September 30.

Thursday’s over-the-top, one-day savings celebration was a smashing success. The company saved customers more than $10 million as of 5 p.m. Thursday evening. The immense popularity of the one-day deal prompted Restaurant.com to extend its 90 percent off super sale one more day.

“Our customers need only one George Washington—you know what I mean, just a single dollar to score a $25 certificate,” said Restaurant.com CEO Cary Chessick. “That’s $24 in your pocket and a great night out with friends or family.”

Economists who believe the dollar is shrinking have not seen this deal. According to the Consumer Price Index, what cost one-dollar in 1902 would cost about $25 today. The 90 percent off megadeal offered by Restaurant.com is most likely one of the best buys in more than a century.

“Given recent market volatility, even risky investment strategies such as playing the lottery, betting big at the racetrack, or panning for gold may seem attractive,” said Restaurant.com President Christopher Krohn. “But for just $1, investing in a Restaurant.com certificate can pay dividends the very next time you plan a night out.”

Consumers can save 90 percent on already discounted Restaurant.com Gift Certificates by entering promo code WOW at checkout. The offer expires at 11:59 p.m. (Central Time) September 30, but Restaurant.com dining certificates never expire.

In addition to the wildly popular $25 denomination, this deal applies to all certificate denominations offered on Restaurant.com, which include values of $10, $50, $75 and $100. For instance, $50 gift certificates are just $2 and $100 gift certificates are just $4 today only. No kidding. Consumers are encouraged to act now before the company’s bigwigs change their minds. A deal this good doesn’t come around very often!

About Restaurant.com

Restaurant.com helps deepen relationships and create lasting memories one dining experience at a time. The company offers savings at more than 18,000 restaurants nationwide with more than 45,000 daily gift certificate options. Restaurant.com brings family and friends together to relax, converse and enjoy dining out. Restaurant.com customers have saved more than $500 million since the Arlington Heights, Ill.-based company was founded in 1999.

SOURCE Restaurant.com

http://www.restaurant.com

Wow! Restaurant.com Extends 90 Percent Off Groundbreaking Megadeal | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, Sept. 26, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Battling with low operator and consumer confidence, rising food costs and a lack of corporate support, independent restaurants can be especially hard hit during poor economic times. However, recent Mintel research reveals that indies may have some advantages over their competition, as 43% of American consumers who have visited one in the past month seek out independent restaurants over chains.

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Moreover, 52% of independent restaurant users say they visit these establishments to support their local community/economy while 51% agree that independent restaurants do a good job of supporting their local community—compared to 37% who say the same of chain eateries.

“People take pride in their communities and will often reward local businesses that make their community a better place,” says Eric Giandelone, director of Mintel Foodservice. “The primary way indies underperform in relation to chains is through a lack of promotions and limited-time offers, two things that could be easily addressed with social shopping and social networking sites.”

Among those patrons who had not visited an independent restaurant in the past month, 22% of respondents said it was too expensive, but over half (56%) of people say they are willing to pay more at an indie. According to Mintel, the majority of diners are willing to pay up to 10% more for an independent dining experience for similar food and service found at a chain.

“Independent restaurants have the advantage of being able to provide a unique experience for customers and have the freedom of not having to comply with government-mandated laws that chains have to face,” adds Eric Giandelone. “While chain restaurants are able to offer up a big helping of value and convenience, they need to focus on areas of opportunity where independents are rated better, such as unique menu items and local flair.”

Forty-two percent of restaurant-goers say independents are superior to chains when it comes to food quality and the ability to customize their orders. However, 21% believe they do a worse job than chains in regards to convenience and 20% say they fall behind chains in the area of fast service.

About Mintel

Mintel is a leading global supplier of consumer, product and media intelligence. For nearly 40 years, Mintel has provided insight into key worldwide trends, offering exclusive data and analysis that directly impacts client success. With offices in Chicago, New York, London, Sydney, Shanghai and Tokyo, Mintel has forged a unique reputation as a world-renowned business brand. For more information on Mintel, please visit www.mintel.com. Follow Mintel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/mintelnews

SOURCE Mintel

http://www.mintel.com

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

CHICAGO – September 13, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn today visited the production set of the new Superman movie Man of Steel to highlight the impact the film industry is having on the Illinois economy. Illinois’ film industry saw a record $161 million in spending in 2010, a 54 percent increase from 2009, and resulted in more than 8,000 job hires. Approximately 550 people in Illinois are being hired for Man of Steel alone.

“With major movie productions like Man of Steel coming to Illinois, the film industry is continuing to strengthen our state’s economy and create thousands of jobs,” Governor Quinn said. “This film is a great example of how the impact of film and television productions is far-reaching in the Illinois economy, benefiting everyone from local restaurants to the carpenters, truck drivers, caterers and custodial staff who make them possible.”

With the filming of Man of Steel, several major television shows and many commercial productions that have already filmed in the state this year, 2011 is promising to be another banner year for the Illinois film industry.

Man of Steel began production in late July in and around Plano, where the city was transformed into Clark Kent’s hometown of Smallville. Production moved to Chicago on Sept. 7, where the movie is currently filming. The film stars Henry Cavill as Superman/Clark Kent, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Kevin Costner and Diane Lane as Clark’s parents, Laurence Fishburne as Daily Planet Editor Perry White and Russell Crowe as Jor-El, Clark’s biological father. Chicagoan Michael Shannon stars as General Zod.

“Illinois continues to make important investments in the film industry as a way to create jobs and cultivate a more sustainable industry, which will help Illinois maintain its competitive edge against other leading production centers,” DCEO Director Warren Ribley said. “The state sees an immediate return on investment when productions like Man of Steel film in Illinois, not only by increasing economic activity and adding jobs, but also by showcasing Illinois’ great locations and skilled workforce.”

“Last year was a record-breaking year for the Illinois film industry and with major productions like Man of Steel filming in Illinois, this is sure to be another successful year,” Betsy Steinberg, Managing Director of the Illinois Film Office said. “We’re seeing more and more films, TV series and commercials choosing to shoot in Illinois, which is giving our economy a boost and creating jobs.”

Illinois’ film industry saw a record $161 million in spending in 2010, which topped the $155 million in spending in 2007 and represents a 54 percent increase from 2009.

Earlier this year, Governor Quinn helped dedicate a new soundstage development, Cinespace Chicago Film Studios, which will make Illinois an even more attractive filming destination. The new studio, when fully built out, will include 1.2 million square feet of space and is located on 48.2 acres at the site of the old Ryerson Steel property on the near southwest side of Chicago between Ogden and Western Avenues.

With many unique locations, talented crews, and ample sound stages, the Illinois Film Office (IFO) actively pursues film projects by promoting Illinois as an ideal location to film. In addition, the IFO administers the Illinois’ Film Tax Credit, which has been instrumental in spurring growth of Illinois’ film industry. Illinois offers a 30 percent tax credit to filmmakers for money spent on Illinois goods and services, including wages paid to Illinois residents. Since its inception, the Film Tax Credit has helped bring over half a billion dollars in revenue to the state and over 10,000 full time equivalent jobs.

Governor Quinn: Illinois Film Industry Boosting State Economy – Blockbuster Productions Like Superman ‘Man of Steel’ Put Illinois on Pace for Another Record Year | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

DEERFIELD, Ill., Sept. 1, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — CKE Restaurants, Inc. (CKE), the owner of one the most popular U.S. regional brands in quick-service and fast-casual dining, Carl’s Jr.®, is now using Textura Corporation’s Construction Payment Management (CPM) system to electronically manage the payment and lien waiver collection for all construction and remodels of their restaurants.

Patrick Allin, Textura Chairman and CEO, stated, “CKE Restaurants is a very important national owner client for Textura.  Their use of CPM demonstrates the value delivered to our owner clients as well as their contractors.  CKE has achieved process improvements and efficiency gains that have led to accelerated workflow, better communication and enhanced visibility into the draw process with their GCs and subcontractors.  CKE reduces their building risk by ensuring all lien waivers are collected and that all other required supporting documents are in order prior to payment.  We are proud to have CKE as a client.”

“CKE has developed a consistent repeatable process for the new construction and remodeling of our restaurants; Textura—CPM is key component of that formula,” stated David Luxton, CKE’s Vice President of Construction.  ”For us CPM standardizes the process as well as the invoices that we receive from many different contractors working on CKE projects across the US.  For our contractors CPM provides efficiencies through the electronic billing and lien waiver collection process.  This automation dramatically reduces submission and approval times, ultimately expediting the exchange of payment for the lien waivers.”

“CKE Project Managers have new insight into the billing process through Textura,” continued Luxton.  ”They can easily verify that all the required conditional and unconditional waivers are present and that they match the reported billings.  This facilitates the approval process, ensures correct payments and eliminates the need for paper.”

David Kelly, Vice President of Client Services, added, “We had to make certain that the standard process put in place for CKE is repeatable and transferable.  CKE is a national organization and uses many different General Contractors.  By working collaboratively with CKE, Textura developed an approach that allows for different GCs to be quickly and seamlessly integrated into the standard process.  Textura handles the training and implementations for the new GCs which usually takes less than a day.”

Standardization and risk reduction are key components for the success at CKE.  Textura—CPM is the only solution that successfully provides a complete, robust solution to the entire construction payment management process for all participants.

About Textura

Founded in 2004, Textura has developed the only robust collaborative industry solutions for construction payment management, Textura—CPM, and for pre-qualification, Textura—PQM.  Textura—CPM integrates all construction payment management process components into one seamless work flow, helping owners, general contractors, subcontractors and others involved in construction projects realize significant benefits from automation and streamlining.  Textura—PQM automates the entire pre-qualification process for everyone by facilitating the electronic submission, review, approval and updating of all pre-qualification documents.  Please visit our website at www.texturacorp.com.

You can also call us at 866-TEXTURA (866-839-8872) or email your question to customerservice@texturacorp.com.  You can submit questions or requests for additional information through our web site at http://www.texturacorp.com/company/ContactUs.php.

About CKE Restaurants, Inc.

CKE Restaurants, Inc. is a privately held company headquartered in Carpinteria, Calif. As of the end of Q1 fiscal 2012, CKE, through its subsidiaries, had a total of 3,182 franchised, licensed or company-operated restaurants in 42 states and in 20 countries, including 1,262 Carl’s Jr. restaurants and 1,909 Hardee’s® restaurants. For more information about CKE Restaurants, please visit www.ckr.com or its brand sites at www.carlsjr.com and www.hardees.com.

SOURCE Textura Corporation

http://www.texturacorp.com
http://www.ckr.com

CKE Restaurants, Inc. Uses Textura—Construction Payment Management for Process Standardization and Risk Mitigation | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, March 30, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Consumers are constantly on-the-go these days and as a result, they prefer that restaurants offer quick and convenient meal and snack options that won’t slow them down. However, one foodservice option that is widely ignored by hungry shoppers is the convenience store. While c-stores position themselves as the ultimate destination for convenience, recent Mintel research found that 33% of consumers who have never purchased food at a convenience store haven’t done so because they believe the food is of low quality.

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“When consumers think of convenience stores, food quality isn’t the first thing that comes to mind,” says Eric Giandelone, director of foodservice research at Mintel. “Improved quality—not just for products but for service, location and marketing communications—is needed to bring in or bring back consumers for whom c-stores aren’t top-of-mind choices.”

Of those who don’t purchase processed food at convenience stores, 64% said they never or rarely consider purchasing food from a c-store. Meanwhile, 32% say the food was not appealing to them and 26% cite high prices as a deterrent. Thirty-five percent reported that there were better food options nearby.

“Convenience stores are always going to face competition from restaurants, especially fast food establishments,” notes Eric Giandelone. “Luckily, convenience store foodservice suffered less than restaurants did during the recession and we forecast this $22.8 million dollar industry to experience 4.1% growth in 2011.”

So what foods are consumers purchasing when they visit convenience stores? It seems c-stores are most popular for their beverage options. Fifty-eight percent of consumers say they purchase fountain beverages, 52% purchase coffee drinks and 44% purchase “slushies” or other frozen beverages.

When it comes to consumers who purchase c-store food—hot dogs (38%) and pizza (33%) are the most popular choices. Additionally, 28% go for made-to-order sandwiches, 26% grab nachos and a quarter of shoppers opt for chicken wings or tenders.

About Mintel

Mintel is a leading global supplier of consumer, product and media intelligence. For more than 38 years, Mintel has provided insight into key worldwide trends, offering exclusive data and analysis that directly impacts client success. With offices in Chicago, New York, London, Sydney, Shanghai and Tokyo, Mintel has forged a unique reputation as a world-renowned business brand. For more information on Mintel, please visit www.mintel.com. Follow Mintel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/mintelnews

SOURCE Mintel

http://www.mintel.com

Third of Shoppers Shun C-Stores’ Foodservice Options, Reports Mintel | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

March 29, 2011

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

Lawmakers bet on more revenue with end of smoking ban | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill., Feb. 9, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Restaurant.com, the trusted and valued source connecting restaurants and diners nationwide, has hit a new company milestone that further demonstrates the company’s commitment to restaurant operators and diners alike.  Today, Restaurant.com officially announced it now offers savings to more than 18,000 participating restaurants from coast to coast.  In conjunction with the milestone, diners also have a record number of discounted gift certificates to choose from and can now access more than 45,000 daily gift certificate options by visiting www.Restaurant.com.

“We are excited to share the news of this recent milestone and we could not experience such tremendous growth without the support of our loyal restaurant partners and customers,” said Cary Chessick, Restaurant.com president and CEO.  ”It is a true honor to support so many local businesses and households across the country through our gift certificate program and we look forward to reaching many more milestones in 2011 and beyond.”  

Founded in 1999, Restaurant.com has become the leading provider of discounted restaurant gift certificates and has grown its restaurant base consistently year over year.  Since February 2009, participating restaurants increased by nearly 80-percent and available gift certificate options have more than quadrupled.  All Restaurant.com restaurant partners benefit from increased exposure and marketing, as well as value-added services such as diner survey results, online reservations, profit estimates, reports showing number of tables filled, and custom marketing services—all provided for no out-of-pocket costs.

For diners, Restaurant.com offers an easy-to-search site and features a webpage offering personalized descriptions of cuisine and menu items, as well as information about pricing, location, hours of operation and decor for each of its 18,000+ restaurant partners.  After searching for participating restaurants on the site, diners pick, purchase and print the selected gift certificate for immediate use.  Diners present their Restaurant.com gift certificate upon arrival, which is then honored on-site.

“Restaurant.com is going to stay committed to growing its restaurant base and will continue to offer operators and diners superior service,” said Chessick.  ”As we celebrate reaching 18,000 partners, we celebrate the restaurant industry and the special experience that dining out brings.”

Restaurant.com regularly runs exclusive sales on top of its already discounted gift certificates.  Diners can visit the site and join the free email list to receive notices about sale promotions.  For more information about Restaurant.com, visit www.Restaurant.com.

About Restaurant.com

Restaurant.com is the trusted and valued source connecting restaurants and diners nationwide.  The company offers savings at more than 18,000 restaurants nationwide with more than 45,000 daily gift certificate options.  Restaurant.com brings people together to relax, converse and enjoy well-prepared and -served meals at affordable prices.  To date, Restaurant.com customers have saved more than $500 million through the gift certificate program.  Restaurant.com has operated since 1999 and is based in Arlington Heights, Ill.

SOURCE Restaurant.com

http://www.Restaurant.com

Restaurant.com Reaches 18,000th Restaurant Milestone and Now Offers More Than 45,000 Gift Certificate Options | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

If the thought of cooking is too much for you to handle, consider the alternative: dining out.

Many restaurants in and around Chicago are serving up Thanksgiving feasts, and others are offering pick-up options.

Check out some Thanksgiving Day dining specials here:

Tired of being limited to cranberry sauce at the family dinner table? The Chicago Diner will serve a vegan Thanksgiving dinner at noon, 2:00, 4:00 and 6:00, but don't forget to call to make reservations. Also, they have carry out available.

Lawry's will be serving up prime rib, roasted turkey and more on Thanksgiving Day. You can also pick up a turkey and pretend you made it.

While you wouldn't normally think of heading to a tapas restaurant for Thanksgiving dinner, Mercat a la Planxa is serving up turkey day classics with a twist. Serrano ham and fig salad, butternut squash dumplings with lamb and smoke roasted turkey with sherry pan gravy and cranberry-orange compote. Reservations recommended.

Putting their famous cinnamon buns aside, Ann Sather will serve a Thanksgiving meal with roasted turkey, celery-sage stuffing, soup, pie and all the trimmings. Of course, cinnamon buns will be available for dessert.

Originally reported by Huffington Post Chicago. Read the original story here.

PHOTOS: Don’t Feel Like Cooking? Our Dining Out On Thanksgiving Guide | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

With all the Tony Parker cheating accusations that are being tossed around by Eva Longoria‘s friends, Tony’s pals think it’s time to set the record straight and point out that both members of this couple have had their problems.

“Eva has been no angel, either,” a friend of the couple tells me. “When they first got married, they both agreed to spend as much time with each other as possible. They knew it would be a challenge with them working in different states, but Eva’s part-time taping schedule for ‘Desperate Housewives’ and the resources they had meant it wouldn’t be that hard.”

However, as time went by, it became obvious to everyone that the couple, who were once inseparable, had started to spend more and more time apart, with Tony in Texas and Eva in Los Angeles.

“During the first year of marriage, Eva partially lived on an plane, visiting Tony the minute the director shouted ‘cut’ on the set of ‘Housewives,’” an insider tells me. “Eva didn’t care about the lavish Hollywood parties she was missing or the fantastic private events she was invited to.”

“All Eva wanted to do was be with Tony and build a life together, but things started to change as she got more and more sucked into the glamorous Hollywood lifestyle,” says another friend.

Both parties have now fittingly filed for divorce in the states they call home, Eva in California and Tony in Texas — two places so far apart it became impossible for them to find any common ground.

“Tony understands how important Eva’s career is to her and never wanted her to leave Los Angeles and settle with him in Texas,” a friend of the couple’s tells me. “But then she would tell him that important meetings came up in Hollywood — which meant she had to stay in LA — and then he would see pictures of her and her friends out at restaurants and clubs. That’s when he knew he couldn’t compete.”

Let’s hope Eva enjoys her flamboyant friends and nights out on the town more than she did being a stay-at-home wife.

Originally reported by PopEater.com. Read the original article here.

Friends Say Eva Longoria ‘Has Been No Angel, Either’ | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

AURORA, Ill., Nov. 22, 2010 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — As Americans ready for Thanksgiving and seasonal festive parties, AAA (club) rolls out a viral Take the Pledge campaign aimed at encouraging motorists to commit to drive drug and alcohol-free during the holidays and all year long.  Additionally, AAA’s newest “Great Pretenders Party Guide” is now available to help party hosts plan festive gatherings with tasty nonalcoholic drink recipes from AAA-Diamond rated hotels and restaurants.

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AAA’s campaign, which debuts at TakethePledge.AAA.com, makes it easy for motorists and passengers to join AAA’s members in the fight against drug and alcohol impaired driving.  Visitors to the site can sign the pledge to support a culture of zero tolerance for impaired driving and easily spread the word to family and friends via Facebook and Take the Pledge e-cards.

AAA is launching the new public awareness initiative in response to feedback from its members who cite impaired driving as their greatest safety concern. AAA members, who represent one in every four households, aren’t alone, according to recent data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety‘s latest Traffic Safety Culture Index.  Nearly 9 of 10 drivers say that people driving after drinking are a very serious threat to their personal safety. And 98 percent say they personally consider it unacceptable for a driver to get behind the wheel when they think they may have had too much to drink.

“With Thanksgiving Eve kicking off spirited gatherings—and for many, the biggest bar night of the year— it’s paramount for AAA to remind drivers of the perils of getting behind the wheel after drinking,” said Beth Mosher, AAA Chicago spokesperson.  ”Before people travel home this week to reunite and celebrate with friends and family, it’s important to reach them with timely messages that could help save their lives and the lives of their loved ones.” 

TakethePledge.AAA.com serves not only as a gateway for people to virally and publicly commit to the fight against impaired driving, but also offers prevention tips and up-to-date statistics in an effort to help people drive responsibly.  Each year, more than 11,000 people are killed in alcohol-related crashes, representing 32 percent of all motor vehicle crashes.  Additionally, more than a million people are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol each year.  

To help people celebrate responsibly throughout the holiday season, AAA Chicago’s newest edition of the “Great Pretenders Party Guide” is online and celebrates “the best of” previous popular nonalcoholic drink recipes.  The 16 nonalcoholic drink recipes have a variety of ingredients, with hot and cold drink recipes to help spice up any gathering.  Party guests will love the Creamelon, a fresh and fruity drink provided by Sixteen in Chicago. Residents can also pick up a free “Great Pretenders” brochure at AAA offices statewide.  The brochure includes five of the featured recipes, along with safety advice.  AAA Chicago offers the following tips to stay safe and keep others safe on the roads:

• Plan ahead and designate a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins.
• Never get behind the wheel of a car when you’ve been drinking – even after just one drink.
• Do not hesitate to take the keys from friends or family members who may be impaired.
• Be a real friend: Call a taxi for those in need.
• Be a responsible host in reminding guests to stay safe and always offer alcohol-free beverages.

“AAA works year-round to educate motorists about driving practices that will keep them safe and reduce crashes and injuries on our nation’s roads. National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month comes each December, during the holiday party season, when drivers will be presented with many opportunities to make wise decisions about whether they’re able to drive,” added Mosher.

As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 52 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.

SOURCE AAA Chicago

http://www.aaa.com

Don’t Squash Thanksgiving Plans With a Recipe for Disaster | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Chicago magazine has been releasing some great “Top 40″ Chicago lists throughout the year, from restaurants to movies to architecture. Its December issue will feature the ultimate list, the Top 40 Reasons To Love Chicago (they starting rolling out a few of these reasons this week.)

For now, we take a look at their list of Chicago icons of the last forty years. The “Top 40 Chicago Pioneers, 1970-2010″ list features some surprises around the top, and some names you couldn’t imagine the list doing without.

Take a look at a few of the highlights below, and then head over to Chicago mag for the whole list. Let us know: who’s overrated? Who got short shrift?

Originally reported by Huffington Post Chicago. Read the original story here.

PHOTOS: Highlights From Chicago Mag’s Top 40 Chicago Pioneers List | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, Nov. 18, 2010 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — RIA restaurant, located within the chic Elysian Hotel in Chicago‘s Gold Coast District, has been awarded the distinguished two-star rating in Chicago‘s first edition of the Michelin Guide.  Internationally recognized as the preeminent epicurean standard, Michelin selected RIA as one of only three restaurants to receive the two Michelin star distinction in Chicago.  

“Achieving Michelin star status is one of the most prestigious culinary honors that a restaurant can hope for,” says Chef Jason McLeod.  ”I am thrilled to share this award with my dedicated team whose passion has made it possible for our restaurant to receive two Michelin stars less than a year after opening.  Chicago has some of the world’s best restaurants and most talented chefs, and we are deeply humbled to be recognized among them.”    

RIA opened in December 2009 to nearly instant acclaim and has continued to win favor by offering unpretentious fine dining at its very best in an elegant but warm and comfortable space.  With a focus on seafood, RIA’s menu features an ever-changing menu of sustainably sourced, local products coupled with the finest of ingredients.  Chef Jason McLeod and Chef de Cuisine Danny Grant lead a team with decades of experience in some of the finest kitchens in the world.

A native of Victoria, Canada, Chef McLeod has 21 years of gastronomic expertise, having worked in some of the world’s most celebrated restaurants and studied under various notable chefs, including Raymond Blanc and Marco Pierre White.  He received his culinary degree from Camosun College in Canada and afterwards moved to London, where he was inspired by international cuisine and embarked on a personal journey to master a variety of cooking styles.

Chicago is the third city in the U.S. to adopt the Michelin Guide, following New York and San Francisco.  Additional restaurants in the area to receive Michelin star recognition this year include Avenues and Charlie Trotter‘s (two stars) and Alinea and L20 (three stars).  To evaluate restaurants included in the influential guide, highly trained Michelin inspectors anonymously visit each establishment and provide objective assessments.

RIA is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday.  For additional information or to make a reservation, please visit www.riarestaurantchicago.com  or call 312-880-4400.

About the Elysian

The Elysian hotel creates a new experience in luxury – uncompromising and unexpected, warm and welcoming, modern and fashion-forward, energetic and young.   The Elysian’s use of space, technology and service innovations set a surprising new standard, keeping promises few others can even make.  Examples include the hotel’s “no tipping” policies, multi-function ambassadors, generous suite size and “single-button service.”

SOURCE The Elysian Hotel

http://www.riarestaurantchicago.com

RIA Earns Two-Star Rating in Chicago’s First-Ever Michelin Guide | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

THE QUARTER: The operator of Wendy’s and Arby’s lost money in its third quarter, pressured by higher commodity costs and weak performances at both restaurant chains.

THE NUMBERS: Wendy’s/Arby’s Group Inc. lost $909,000, or break-even on a per-share basis, for the period ended Oct. 3. Analysts expected earnings of 4 cents per share.

THE RESTAURANTS: Systemwide sales at Wendy’s open at least a year in North America dropped 1.7 percent, while Arby’s reported a 5.9 percent decline. This is important because it measures results at existing restaurants rather than newly opened ones.

Summary Box: Wendy’s/Arby’s loses money in 3Q (AP) | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

CHICAGO, Nov. 10, 2010 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — The foodservice industry demands change as often as the limited-time offers (LTOs) at your favorite restaurant, and this year was no exception. In light of the recent healthcare bill that requires restaurants with 20+ units to list calorie counts on the menu, operators are now tasked with balancing federal regulations with the differing demands of their customers. Restaurant-goers value menu transparency, but still want the occasional indulgent dining experience. Mintel Menu Insight’s foodservice trends for 2011 are all about walking that fine line between open disclosure and customer satisfaction.

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According to Eric Giandelone, director of foodservice research at Mintel, “Both the government and consumers want healthier menu options, but restaurant-goers are also very concerned about value and how their food tastes. Keeping both parties satisfied might be a challenge as we move into 2011.”

Trend #1: Healthy by Association

Sixty-two percent of consumers say they plan to eat healthier in the upcoming year, but many complain that healthier food doesn’t taste as good without the added sugar, sodium and fat. Restaurants will address this problem by swapping in ‘healthier’ ingredients to their patrons’ favorite dishes, and positioning them to appear better-for-you. For instance, Taco Bell has quietly reduced sodium at 150 stores in the Dallas market, while Jason’s Deli promotes its food as being free from high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), trans fats or pesticides. Consumers enjoy visiting restaurants that are perceived as healthy because these venues make them feel good about themselves and their meal choices. Consumers might opt to visit the ‘healthy’ restaurant, but be wooed by the not-so-healthy LTOs offered at these places (see Trend #5).

Trend #2: Automated Menus

Convenience and technology will form the perfect union this year as restaurant-goers will see an increase in automated menus at their favorite establishments. These electronic order-takers will provide customers with the opportunity to order food to their specifications in do-it-yourself style, thus reducing the restaurant’s reliance on front-of-house staff, as well as full-time employees. Automated menus, in addition to mobile applications, will allow restaurants to reach a younger, more mobile consumer.

Trend #3: Transparency

Consumers want to know what they’re eating, and the recently passed healthcare bill mandates such disclosure. Restaurants with 20+ units are now required to list calorie counts on their menus. Consumers seem happy with the impending disclosure, as 61% agree that restaurants should post nutritional information, like calorie counts and fat grams, on menus. More cities will start forcing restaurants to visibly display their letter grades from local health departments, further increasing menu transparency.

Trend #4: Indigenous Ingredients

While the local food movement continues to grow, the push toward indigenous ingredients takes that trend a step further. In 2011, we will see restaurants incorporating more traditional or authentic ingredients to their ethnic or globally-positioned entrees. One example of this trend is Frontera Grill’s Panucho Yacateco, an entree that boasts a traditional Yucatan crispy tortilla filled with black beans and hard-boiled egg with shredded chicken in tangy escabeche. “Local” as an ingredient marketing claim has grown by 15% from Q2 2009 to Q2 2010, according to Mintel Menu Insights, and it’s likely that number will increase in the coming year.

Trend #5: Exemptions to the Rule

A vast majority of restaurants will have to disclose calorie counts on their menus, but that rule doesn’t apply to LTOs. Operators will take advantage of this loophole by offering less-than-healthy novelty or seasonal menu items, allowing customers to indulge in a guilty treat, without feeling pressured to make a healthier menu choice. As it stands, 43% of consumers say they’re likely to change what they order when calorie counts are listed on the menu. LTOs allow consumers the occasional opportunity to indulge in a meal out.

About Mintel

Mintel is a leading global supplier of consumer, product and media intelligence. For more than 38 years, Mintel has provided insight into key worldwide trends, offering exclusive data and analysis that directly impacts client success. With offices in Chicago, New York, London, Sydney, Shanghai and Tokyo, Mintel has forged a unique reputation as a world-renowned business brand. For more information on Mintel, please visit www.mintel.com. Follow Mintel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/mintelnews

SOURCE Mintel

http://www.mintel.com

Restaurants Will Have to Serve Two Masters in 2011: The Government and Their Customers | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

OAK BROOK, Ill., Nov. 5 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — The McDonald’s Corporation Board of Directors today elected Steve Easterbrook, currently McDonald’s Executive Vice President and Global Chief Brand Officer, as President of McDonald’s Europe effective December 1, 2010.

Easterbrook, previously CEO of McDonald’s United Kingdom and President of Europe‘s Northern Division, succeeds Denis Hennequin, who will resign from McDonald’s on November 30, 2010 to become Chief Executive Officer of the Accor Hotels Group.

Easterbrook, 43, will oversee operations of more than 6,800 McDonald’s restaurants in 39 European countries. In his new role he will report to McDonald’s President and Chief Operating Officer Don Thompson.

“Steve’s keen knowledge of our business in Europe and his consumer-driven approach to building our brand make him the ideal choice to lead McDonald’s Europe,” said Thompson. “We are confident that his strong commitment to our customers and to our employees will fuel continued success in Europe.”

“The opportunity to lead the McDonald’s Europe team is a great honor,” said Easterbrook. “In accepting this position, I’d like to pay tribute to Denis Hennequin for his leadership in driving our business in Europe. We’ll strive to maintain and accelerate our strong momentum by anticipating the needs of our customers, investing in our employees, and further developing our brand.”

Easterbrook’s return to Europe reflects McDonald’s solid succession planning process and the global alignment around the Plan to Win – McDonald’s business strategy.

“The strong performance of McDonald’s Europe is a key component to our overall success, and Steve’s track record shows that he’ll do an excellent job leading the business,” said Jim Skinner, McDonald’s Chief Executive Officer.

Easterbrook is a 16-year McDonald’s veteran with experience in finance, operations, and supply chain. He took over as CEO of the U.K. in April 2006, and added responsibility for Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Ireland in January 2007.

Skinner added, “We have a deep bench of talent at McDonald’s, and we will name a successor for the Global Chief Brand Officer position in the near future.”

McDonald’s is the world’s leading global foodservice retailer with more than 32,000 locations serving 60 million customers in more than 100 countries each day. More than 80% of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local men and women. To learn more about the company, please visit www.aboutmcdonalds.com and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/aboutmcdonalds) and Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/mcdonaldscorp)

SOURCE McDonald’s

http://www.aboutmcdonalds.com

McDonald’s Names Steve Easterbrook as President of McDonald’s Europe | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

OAK BROOK, Ill., Nov. 3, 2010 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — McDonald’s Corporation today announced that Denis Hennequin will resign as President of McDonald’s Europe to become Chief Executive Officer of the Accor Hotel Group. He leaves his McDonald’s position effective November 30, 2010.

As President of McDonald’s Europe, Hennequin was responsible for more than 6,800 McDonald’s restaurants in 39 European countries, which generated $9.3 billion in revenues for McDonald’s in 2009.

“Denis’ leadership made a tangible difference in our key segment of Europe,” said McDonald’s Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner.  ”The European team’s dedication to our Plan to Win business strategy elevated the restaurant experience for our customers. We wish Denis well in his new role at Accor.”

“We appreciate Denis’ energy and passion for our Brand,” said Don Thompson, McDonald’s President and Chief Operating Officer. “Our customers and our crew in Europe will continue to benefit from the momentum he helped to drive.”

Hennequin began his career at McDonald’s in 1984 as an Assistant Store Manager, assuming various responsibilities in field service.  In 1996, Hennequin was appointed President and Managing Director for McDonald’s France, and was subsequently appointed as Executive Vice President for McDonald’s Europe, before becoming President in 2005.

Skinner said, “A succession plan for McDonald’s Europe is in place and a new leader will be named in the near future.”

McDonald’s is the world’s leading global foodservice retailer with more than 32,000 locations serving 60 million customers in more than 100 countries each day. More than 80% of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local men and women. To learn more about the company, please visit www.aboutmcdonalds.com and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/aboutmcdonalds) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/mcdonaldscorp).

SOURCE McDonald’s Corporation

http://www.mcdonalds.com

McDonald’s Announces Denis Hennequin to Resign as President of McDonald’s Europe | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Introducing “The Chicago Survival Guide,” made up of three go-to sources for knowing what’s what in Chicago: Drink Deck, Not For Tourists, and BYOB Chicago.

This gift idea is perfect for newbies, urban explorers and natives alike, combining savings, foodie knowledge and neighborhood navigation.

Nice Package:

Drink Deck features 52 – $10 gift cards (no expiration) to Chicago’s best bars. BYOB Chicago’s 3^rd Edition is your exclusive guide to over 500 “bring your own bottle” spots around town, and NFT Chicago’s 2011 map book will help plot the course!

These three must-have Chicago guides would normally cost almost $66, but our packaged offer combines all three for just $40—40% less than regular retail price!

Where to find it:

Visit thedrinkdeck.com or notfortourists.com to purchase this exclusive Holiday offer

About Drink Deck, LLC

Founded in Chicago in December, 2009, Drink Deck LLC has a mission of combining travel & discount guides into a deck of playing cards featuring 52 of the best bar scenes in some of the best travel destinations in the United States.

For more information on Drink Deck, visit thedrinkdeck.com.

About BYOB Chicago

BYOB Chicago, 3rd Edition, is a comprehensive guide to the BYOB dining scene in Chicagoland, featuring nearly 400 BYOBs, 100 fine wine stores, & dozens of restaurant corkage fees throughout Chicagoland.

For more information, go to BYOB-Chicago.com.

About Not For Tourists

Founded in 2000, Not For Tourists is an award-winning guidebook that provides the best local neighborhood information for Chicago and nine other cities.

Combining beautiful maps with essential information to explore the city, NFT is the ultimate urban companion.

For more information on Not For Tourists, visit notfortourists.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Will Glass, 312-857-4598
thedrinkdeck@gmail.com

The Chicago Survival Guide: Combining savings, foodie knowledge and neighborhood navigation | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.