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| | The May Report: 11/30/2009: A very busy upcoming two weeks of events; Assistive Medical Equipment, The Shire Group, B My Baby Nursery, Ediface(tm) to present at BNC Tuesday; McCall, Downs, and Chow to speak Thursday; Cuts at Playboy; Happy 83rd, Mom May
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| | November 30, 2009
The May Report: 11/30/2009: A very busy upcoming two weeks of events; Assistive Medical Equipment, The Shire Group, B My Baby Nursery, Ediface(tm) to present at BNC Tuesday; McCall, Downs, and Chow to speak Thursday; Cuts at Playboy; Happy 83rd, Mom May
Editor and publisher: ron@themayreport.com, ronaldmay@aol.com, www.themayreport.com, 773-525-3944.
If you missed an article, go here: http://www.tmronline.com/A55951/tmrarticles.nsf/vwFullNewsletter
_______________________
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_____________________________________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Scoop section:
-- Playboy to outsource most mag operations; cut 25 jobs
-- November 30; 2009; 6:00 p.m: Chicago Booth Marketing Roundtable - "Communicating in a Challenging Environment"
-- Wednesday, December 2: MSPC's Holiday Gala Celebration
-- Tuesday, December 1: BNC Capital Group: B My Baby Nursery, Shore Group, Assistive Medical, Ediface
-- Thursday, December 3: The State of Venture Capital in Illinois: Matt McCall, Matt Downs and Lon Chow
-- Tuesday, December 8: Chicago Social Media Club
-- Wednesday, December 9: Second Annual Designer Roundtable Event at Saper Law: Sell, Shop, or Share
-- Kiran Ramineni's presentation of sendeaZy to the MEF Wheaton meeting, Tuesday, Nov. 24th
-- Jane Kaplan: Carbon Day Automotive
-- Miscellaneous notes (10 messages)
-- comScore: Black Friday Boasts $595 Million in U.S. Online Holiday Spending, Up 11 Percent Versus Year Ago
-- CMAP Economic Recovery Update, 11-25-09
-- December 9, 2009: MEF networking event reminder
-- Newsletter from The Coleman Center at DePaul listing some upcoming events: Ramanations; New PeerCircle Gathering
-- Cards Ron collected at MEF 11/09/2009
-- Cards Ron collected at the Heartland Angels panel on CFOs 11/10/2009
-- Cards Ron collected at Chicago Booth Alumni Dinner at Navy Pier 11/06/2009
-- Cards Ron collected at the ASP meeting on 11/18/2009 about the Miller Coors merger
[Editor's note: May here. I hope everyone had a good Turkey day. I still have my carry home bag from having visited my brother's for Thanksgiving. Top of the agenda for the next report is Hardy Bhatt and the TiE meeting, and I have a whole survey I am preparing and preparing the each ITA board member. The next ITA board meeting is Wednesday, December 9th from 9am to 11am. This and the voluminous correspondence associated with the preparation of the survey has kept me busy all day. Much more on all that to come.
This article by Ron Brownstein of The Atlantic is required reading at the White House.
http://politics.theatlantic.com/2009/11/a_milestone_in_the_health_care_journey.php
There seems to be a formatting problem with this report and I think I know what is causing it but fixing it will take me at least 45 minutes and it already close to 5pm. The article is spread out over too much space.]
______________________________________
The Scoop section:
_______________________
Playboy to outsource most mag operations; cut 25 jobs
Playboy to outsource most mag operations; cut 25 jobs
Nov. 24, 2009
(Reuters) - Playboy Enterprises Inc. will outsource all its publishing operations except for editorial to American Media Inc. in a bid to cut costs and return its namesake magazine to profitability in two years.
The company said on Tuesday that Playboy magazine is forecast to lose $8 million in 2009, and this outsourcing move would reduce that loss by $5 million in 2010 before it reaches profitability in late 2011.
The move comes as Playboy Enterprises, founded by Hugh Hefner, is in talks to be sold for about $300 million. Sources familiar with the matter said earlier this month that Iconix Brand Group was interested in the Chicago-based company, as was Jim Griffiths, a former entertainment president at Playboy .
Florida-based American Media, the fourth-largest U.S. magazine publisher, will take over production, circulation, advertising sales, marketing and support functions of both Playboy magazine and the company's other domestic publications.
American Media will be paid fees for these functions, as well as incentives to increase advertising and circulation revenue, Playboy said. It did not give details.
The move will result in about 25 job cuts, leading to a fourth-quarter charge of $2 million, Playboy said, adding that some of the positions will be transferred to American Media.
"By joining forces with American Media, we will be able to significantly reduce our cost structure and leverage the economies of scale related to manufacturing, distribution and marketing," Playboy Chief Executive Scott Flanders said.
"This partnership will enable us to generate profits from our magazine operations in 2011," he said in a statement.
Earlier this month, Playboy posted a narrower third-quarter loss of $1.1 million, or 3 cents per share, as revenue fell across its print, TV and licensing businesses. That compared with its $6.2 million loss, or 19 cents a share, a year earlier.
The outsourcing move was first reported in the Wall Street Journal, which said it would be funded in part from Playboy's advertising sales.
______________________________________________
November 30; 2009; 6:00 p.m: Chicago Booth Marketing Roundtable - "Communicating in a Challenging Environment"
Subject: REMINDER: Chicago Booth Marketing Roundtable - "Communicating in a Challenging Environment" - First MONDAY after Thanksgiving, November 30; 2009; 6:00 p.m.
Date: 11/23/2009 4:31:32 P.M. Central Standard Time
From: smcg@chicagobooth.edu
To: marketing-roundtable@gsb.uchicago.edu
The current communications environment demands demands transparency, rewards reputation and reacts ruthlessly when faith in either is threatened. How a company communicates to key publics before, during and after a crisis is as important as the company's actions to effectively manage the crisis. Therefore, actively managing corporate reputation has become a strategic imperative for businesses.
Topic: Communicating in a Challenging Environment
Speaker: Christopher Bona, Senior Vice President in the Corporate Affairs practice at Weber Shandwick
Date: MONDAY, November 30, 2009
Time: 6:00 Registration
6:30 - 8:00 Program
8:00 - Networking and Cash Bar
Location: Gleacher Center - Room 100
To RSVP: Register on-line at:
https://gsbsurvey.chicagogsb.edu/ViewsFlash/servlet/viewsflash?cmd=showform&pollid=alumni_roundtable!Marketing Registration
Questions? Please contact Galen Williams at gwilliams@maroonglobal.com.
About Our Speaker
Christopher Bona is a senior vice president in the Corporate Affairs practice at Weber Shandwick, one of the largest global public relations agency. He has nearly 15 years of experience in corporate reputation management, executive communications, employee engagement, executive communications and crisis and issues management. He has provided counsel to executives on a variety of issues ranging from product tampering, litigation, product recalls, environmental accidents, regulatory enforcement actions and plant emergencies. He has served as a corporate spokesperson for several companies
Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Christopher held public relations leadership positions at Abbott and Baxter.
Christopher holds both a bachelor of arts degree in Communications and a master of arts degree in Sociology from DePaul University, and a master of business administration from The Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. He is currently on the faculty at both DePaul University's College of Communication and The Lake Forest Graduate School of Management.
* * * * *
Special Note
Once again, we'll set up a Literature Table in the front registration area before the meeting. You may use the table to distribute copies of anything (within reason) that communicates your business, your capabilities, and/or career interests. This would include a brochure, a fact sheet, a resume, or other items of interest. This will give us all an opportunity to share our interests and find ways to help each other achieve goals.
* * *
Discounted Parking
Chicago Booth has arranged with the AMC Theater-River East Self parking Garage to provide discounted parking:
300 East Illinois Street (AMC Theater-River East Self Park Garage)
$6.00 after 3:00pm
Garage: Self Park Facility
Payment: Automated; at pay-stations by cash or credit card or upon exit pay by credit card only.
To receive discounted rate: There is a card validator at the first floor security desk of the Gleacher Center. The new system for the AMC Theater- River East Self Park Garage is automated. You will only need to insert your parking card in the validator and the new price will be automatically applied. You can validate your parking ticket at any time between your arrival at and departure from the Gleacher Center. When you leave the lot you will be charged for the lower $6.00 fee.
Detailed Directions :
Garage is located next to PJ Clarks and below the AMC Theater.
a) When traveling east on Illinois cross over Columbus and enter the Garage on the left (north) side of the street.
b) If driving west on Grand (north of Theater), you can enter the garage ½ block before Columbus on the left (south) side of the street.
* * *
CHECK YOUR CHICAGO WEEKLY FOR OTHER CHICAGO BOOTH ALUMNI EVENTS OF INTEREST:
For information on other coming Chicago Booth Roundtable meetings, Chicago Booth Alumni Club events, and other alumni events of interest, visit http://www.chicagogsb.edu/chicagoweekly/. The Chicago Weekly is updated every Thursday.
* * * * *
ABOUT THE MARKETING ROUNDTABLE
Our mission: The mission of the Chicago Booth Marketing Roundtable is to help Chicago alumni and a broader community of marketing professionals learn more, meet other colleagues, and solve marketing issues. Our vision is to be the first choice for learning and sharing new marketing ideas.
About our meetings: Chicago Booth Marketing Roundtable meetings are typically scheduled at the downtown campus (Gleacher Center), on the last Wednesday of each month (with some variation), from 6:30 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. They are free of charge, and no food is served. (Food is available, if you wish, in the cafeteria.) Room location is posted each month at the front desk. Please note date is subject to change - check calendar listing for details.
Guests: Your guests who have an active interest in marketing are always welcome via your personal invitation. Please RSVP and let us know how many to expect! (But please don't post this or any Chicago Booth Marketing Roundtable announcement in any public forum).
Got a topic idea? If you have a topic idea, a presenter to recommend, or any questions or suggestions, please contact any Chicago Booth Marketing Roundtable Steering Team member:
Peg Conway, 312.347.3918, margaret.conway@cmegroup.com
Manmohan Gupta, manmohan1@gmail.com
Jordan Katz, 312-288-2422, Jordan_Katz@gallup.com
Scott McGarvey, 312.648.6275, smcg@chicagobooth.edu
Vivek Prabhu, (312) 493 4987, vivek.r.prabhu@gmail.com
Les Stern, 847.205.1936, les@lsternmktg.com
Jim Steuer, 773-935-7208, JSEChicago@aol.com
Galen Williams, 312.810.1300, gwmw@sbcglobal.net
_______________
Marketing-Roundtable mailing list
Marketing-Roundtable@lists.chicagobooth.edu
http://lists.chicagogsb.edu/mailman/listinfo/marketing-roundtable
________________________________________
Wednesday, December 2: MSPC's Holiday Gala Celebration
Subject: Don't Forget - 3 Days Left To Reserve Your Spot - MSPC's Holiday Event Invitation - December 2, 2009
Date: 11/28/2009 1:55:25 P.M. Central Standard Time
From: sherralynpeterson@sbcglobal.net
To: ronaldmay@aol.com
MSPC's Holiday Gala Celebration
DATE: Wednesday, December 2, 2009
TIME: 5:00 pm- 8:30 pm
LOCATION: Marcello's Restaurant
645 W. North Avenue
Chicago, IL
Phone: 312-654-2550
(For directions only)
A Special Holiday Experience with a Look into the Exciting World of Concierges
MSPC has planned another special evening with a delicious variety of Hors d'oeuvres accompanied by holiday music, guest speakers, dinner and sparkling conversation with fellow consultants.
The presenters during this Gala Celebration include:
Stephanie Leese Emrich, Chef Concierge Event Specialist and Hospitality. The Talbott Hotel
Jon Winke, Chef Concierge, Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Chicago
For more details on this event, click on:
http://www.mspc.org/Dec2009.html
Hors d'oeuvres, Reception and Buffet Dinner with Music
Guest Speakers, Stephanie Leese Emrich, The Talbott Hotel and Jon Winke, Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Surprise Gifts!
Reserve by November 27th to take advantage of the Early Bird Rate.
www.mspc.org/Dec2009reservations.html
We hope you can join us for a fun and interesting evening! Bring your clients, associates, family and friends.
Sincerely,
MSPC
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Tuesday, December 1: BNC Capital Group: B My Baby Nursery, Shore Group, Assistive Medical, Ediface
Subject: BNC VC Group 12/1 5:00 PM at LLB&L; Presenters - B My Baby Nursery, Shore Group, Assistive Medical, Ediface
Date: 11/28/2009 5:24:09 P.M. Central Standard Time
From: len_bland@conceptequity.com
To: RONALDMAY@aol.com
BNC Venture Capital Group
Sign up here: http://tinyurl.com/bncvc1201
Tuesday 12/1, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM 111 S. Wacker Drive, 41st Floor
Please do not arrive before 5:00 PM.
Click here to see the full version of this notice http://conceptequity.com/BNCVCGroup.htm
The BNC Venture Capital Group introduces exciting investment opportunities to professional investors (angels, early stage venture capitalists, and private equity firms seeking add-ons) and fosters the growth of entrepreneurial activity.
Len Bland, CEO of Concept Equity www.conceptequity.com, and David Carman, CEO of Business Network Chicago www.bnchicago.org, lead the BNC Venture Capital Group.
We will review four entrepreneurial opportunities. Each presentation lasts 10 minutes, followed by a 15 minute Q&A.
Effective presentations answer 4 questions:
·What is the product or service?
-Why will customers buy it?
·Why is the management team qualified to execute the business plan?
·How will the investor make money?
5:00 PM - Networking
5:30 PM - Assistive Medical Equipment
6:00 PM - The Shire Group
6:30 PM - Break
6:45 PM - B My Baby Nursery
7:15 PM - Ediface
Assistive Medical Equipment http://www.assistiveme.com/ manufactures .products that improve the ease of care for the elderly and disabled. Their first product, the EZRock™ Patient Transfer System, reduces nursing and care giver back injuries by eliminating manual lifting.
The Shire Group www.eatbluesbbq.com is launching a food distribution division to service both its barbecue restaurants (one of the fastest growing segments of fast casual dining) as well as outside accounts. The company is profitable, has parties interested in franchising, and has significant relationships with the University of Illinois and Ohio State University providing frequent catering for their large-scale events.
B My Baby Nursery http://tinyurl.com/bmybaby is an experiential retailer of water-filled baby dolls and accessories in a hospital nursery designed for children (think Build-A-Bear Workshop meets American Girl). The company plans to open 52 company owned stores by 2014. The business relies on a very successful, patented water-filled baby doll known as Waterbabies, which sold 20MM units in 20 years.
Ediface(tm) http://tinyurl.com/ediface provides hardware and software technology to enable a real guitar to work as a game console. It converts an analog signal to digital without the issues of audible latency (delay). Their interface enables gaming, and both instructional and recording capabilities.
Location:
Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell www.lockelord.com
111 South Wacker Drive, 41st Floor
Chicago, Illinois 60606
Sign up at http://tinyurl.com/bncvc1201 - Event cost $20
Evening Meeting includes food and beverages
Call Len Bland at 847-317-0656 or write len_bland@conceptequity.com with questions or if you have any difficulty registering. Other investors welcome.
If you have a scheduling conflict, please join us for the next meeting set for 1/5/2010.
Regards,
Len Bland, CPA
CEO
http://twitter.com/conceptlen
Office/Cell: 847-317-0656
Fax: 847-919-4396
www.conceptequity.com
Next BNC Venture Capital Group Meeting
Join BNC Venture Capital Group notification list
Current investment opportunities
Concept Equity Blog
_______________________________________________
Thursday, December 3: The State of Venture Capital in Illinois: Matt McCall, Matt Downs and Lon Chow
https://www.illinoistech.org/calendar.aspx/1849
Call to Action: The State of Venture Capital in Illinois
Event Call to Action: The State of Venture Capital in Illinois
Date Thursday, December 03, 2009
Time 08:30 - 10:00 AM
Location ITA TechNexus
200 S. Wacker Drive, 15th Floor
Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 435-2805
Conference Room A/B
Regardless of the incredible money flows in Illinois, the state is not always known as a hot-bed of investment activity. Is that a reality or a myth? Is there a disconnect between LPs and GPs, GPs and entrepreneurs? Despite the robust business, financial and academic communities in Illinois, the state dramatically lags other regions in venture investing and new business creation (in tech and other venture-backed industries).
Join us for a venture capital outlook event presented by ITA that will look at both what the really has gone on - and what the future holds. First of its kind where entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and institutional investors will discuss the good, bad and the ugly about the state of venture capital in Illinois.
About the panelists:
Lon Chow is a general partner with Apex Venture Partners. Prior to joining Apex in 1997, Lon was a partner with Mercer Management Consulting (formerly Strategic Planning Associates), where he developed and implemented growth strategies for clients in computing, media, and telecommunications industries. He also held various operating management positions with Pacific Telesis. Lon received an MBA from the Wharton School and a BA from the University of California, Davis.Lon currently serves on the boards of Advanced Equities Financial Corp., Analyte Media, ALI Solutions, Appolicious, Current Analysis, Sittercity, and Timelines. He is a board observer of MEI Corporation. Lon's outside board membership includes Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center and Viewpoints Network. Lon's previous investments included ICON Solutions (acquired by AnswerThink), KnowledgeStorm (acquired by TechTarget), PlaceWare (acquired by Microsoft), Shoebuy.com (acquired by IAC/InterActiveCorp), Thinque Systems (acquired by MEI), Tradex Technologies (acquired by Ariba) and WorldPrints (acquired by At Home).
Matt Downs is Managing Director of Sandbox Industries. Matt is a member of the board of directors of Phreesia and Myca, portfolio companies of BCBSVP. Previously, Matt was the CEO of Sandbox incubated company, Morgan Street Document Systems. Prior to joining Sandbox, Matt was an Associate with the Boston-based venture capital firm, Highland Capital Partners, and served as an Analyst for Morgan Stanley in the M&A group in New York. He has worked as a senior advisor with multiple privately-held companies, providing them financing and business development counsel. Matt holds a BA from Brigham Young University and an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Matthew McCall is a Partner at New World Ventures and co-founder & Managing Director of Draper Fisher Jurvetson Portage Venture Partners. McCall has been responsible for managing investments in Analyte Media, Cognitive Concepts (acquired by Houghton Mifflin), EverDream (acquired by Dell), Feedburner (acquired by Google), Imago Scientific, Lefthand Networks (acquired by HP), Siimpel and TicketsNow (acquired by Ticketmaster). McCall has served on the advisory board to the Mayor's Council of Technology Advisors in Chicago as well as on numerous other regional high technology advisory boards. McCall is an executive board member of the Illinois Venture Capital Association. He is the author of a popular venture blog, VCConfidential.com. He serves on the Kellogg Alumni Council. He has been honored by Crain's Chicago Business on its annual "40 under 40" list of leading Chicagoans under age 40. He has also been named as one of top 100 most prominent members of Chicago's technology community. He has keynoted or been a panelist at over 50 area conferences and events nationwide. He is a founder & trustee of the McCall Family Foundation, focused on improving early childhood development in ChicagoIs disadvantaged communities as well as encouraging entrepreneurship in our youth.Previous to 1995, McCall worked in the Boston Consulting Group's Chicago office, where he managed consulting and client teams on projects in the telecommunications, health-care and financial services industries. During and after college, McCall worked for Bankers Trust in Merchant Banking as well as at Merrill Lynch and U.S. Trust.
Cost $0 Member
$30 Non-Member
To register to attend the Call to Action: The State of Venture Capital in Illinois on Thursday, December 03, 2009, please enter your email below and submit.
_____________________________________________
Tuesday, December 8: Chicago Social Media Club
Subject: Chicago Social Media Club 12/8 event
Date: 11/23/2009 1:31:31 P.M. Central Standard Time
From: jwillinger@rightpoint.com
To: RONALDMAY@aol.com
December 8 Twitterati Glitterati Social Media Club Chicago Holiday Event
CME Group, 20 South Wacker
Register online at http://budurl.com/smcchicagoparty
$10 before December 7, $15 day of and at the door
Program: An Evening with Two Social Media Authors
Shel Israel - Twitterville and Erik Qualman - Socialnomics
Join us as we wrap up 2009 and look ahead to 2010!
5:30 - 6:00 Mingle and Jingle: beverages, pizza, goodies and mixing
6:30 - 7:30 Program and Book Signings
7:30 - 8:30 Make Merry and Bright: socialize and make plans for 2010
Attire: Holiday sweaters welcome, prizes for wackiest, ugliest and most creative
Host Sponsor CME Group and Allan Schoenberg
Marketing Partner Search Engine Strategies Chicago
Speaker Sponsor Thanks to CrowdSpring and Ross Kimbarovsky for arranging Shel Israel's presentation and to Barbara Maldonado for connecting SMC Chicago with Erik Qualman.
Refreshment Sponsors Dominos Pizza by Ramon DeLeon, Tres Generaciones Tequila and Goodies Etc.
Social Media Club Chicago
Social Media Club [SMC] is a worldwide organization, with local chapters, that serves as connecting organization for anyone interested in social media. Membership is free and open to all levels, including beginners. Chicago's SMC chapter, launched in October 2008, presents events that mix socializing, networking and learning. Barbara Rozgonyi [@wiredprworks], founder and Jeff Willinger [@jwillie], president, lead the Chicago SMC chapter. Amy Korin [@interactiveamy] coordinates volunteers; Tim McDonald [@tamcdonald] manages communications; and Chris Geier [@chrisgeier] oversees technology. Event attendees include entrepreneurs, corporate communicators, journalists, business professionals, publishers, marketers, media creators, citizen journalists and technology types. For more information, visit http://smcchicago.org, email smcchicagonews@gmail.com, follow @smcchicago on twitter.com or call 630.207.7530.
Jeffrey S. Willinger
312.622.2300 cell
jwillinger@rightpoint.com
rightpoint
200 West Madison Street Suite 2240
Chicago, Illinois 60606
(312) 920-8390 office
(312) 920-8384 fax
www.rightpoint.com
http://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffwillinger
http://twitter.com/jwillie
______________________________________________
Wednesday, December 9: Second Annual Designer Roundtable Event at Saper Law: Sell, Shop, or Share
From: Daliah Saper admin@saperlaw.com
Sender: Daliah Saper admin=saperlaw.com@mcsv157.net
Subject: Second Annual Designer Roundtable Event at Saper Law: Sell, Shop, or Share
Date: Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:04:34 -0500
To: "Ron" ron@themayreport.com
Mark your Calendars!
Dear Ron ,
Last year, on December 9, 2008, Saper Law Offices held its first ever Designer Roundtable event. Attendees ranged from jewelry and fashion designers to event planners and brand managers. Some attendees, including Steven Rosengard, former Project Runway contestant, brought their couture pieces or unique designs to showcase at the event. The roundtable discussion focused on a variety of business issues, both legal and operational. Daliah Saper served as the moderator and discussion leader for a number of key subjects, answering questions about business incorporation, the hiring of independent contractors vs. employees, filing copyrights and trademarks, and how to obtain business licenses. Other important issues discussed were accounting for sales tax, record keeping, and public relations strategies. Read more about last year's event here.
By popular demand, Saper Law is once again hosting a Designer Roundtable event where attendees are invited to bring their unique pieces, or their pocketbook, to "sell, shop, or share."
Like last year, this event is geared towards entreprenuers in creative disciplines, namely fashion design, jewlery design interior design, film, music, and art. The two hour event includes time to network, eat lunch, and peruse the make shift boutique. Come to learn from and talk to other professionals in creative enterprises!
Details:
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Saper Law Offices, LLC
500 N. Dearborn, Suite 1200
Chicago, IL 60610
Time: 11:30am - 1:30pm
Cost $10 with advanced registration: http://shopsellshare.eventbrite.com
OR pay $25.00 at the door.
Lunch will be provided.
ABOUT SAPER LAW:
We are intellectual property and business attorneys with significant transactional and both federal and state litigation experience. Our most recent court cases have involved trade secret misappropriation, intellectual property infringement, defamation, and commercial disputes. We primarily specialize in the following areas of law: Trademarks | Copyrights | Trade Secrets | Corporate | Internet and Cyber Space |Entertainment | Defamation | Sponsorship and Advertising Agreements |
___________________________________________
Kiran Ramineni's presentation of sendeaZy to the MEF Wheaton meeting, Tuesday, Nov. 24th
Subject: sendeaZy presentation at MEF - Wheaton 11/24/09
Date: 11/25/2009 12:42:17 P.M. Central Standard Time
From: Ramineni@Rampinfo.com
To: ronaldmay@aol.com
CC: jerry@jerryrmitchellandassoc.com
Ron,
Per you request, I am enclosing a write up. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity provided to us by Jerry and I am of the opinion that we should have this reviewed by Jerry before publishing this. I am copying Jerry on this email.
Thanks and Regards
Kiran Ramineni
Ron,
Yesterday's presentation at Midwest Entrepreneurs Forum (http://www.midwestentrepreneursforum.org) went reasonable considering that it's the Thanksgiving Week and that it was raining in Wheaton. Few turned up to the meeting in spite of the rain.
It was an information sharing presentation about sendeaZy product. The feedback from the audience was valuable. Here are few comments we heard :
* This is easy to use.
* I could have used the "Pause" and "Resume" feature just one hour ago. I wish I had known about sendeaZy earlier.
* It (sendeaZy) will save time for users who exchange large files.
There were some pointers from the audience on the marketing channels - which we will take a look into.
sendeaZy has a small team that consists of full/part/as needed staff at this time. The product is released to market in the first week of September and has been gaining attention, a number of free trial users and some paying users. Users include Engineering, CPA and Technology fields.
sendeaZy is self funded so far using some of my reserves and consulting income. We may want to pitch for funding in the future.
At this time, we are looking for opportunities for presenting the product at appropriate forums that could bring more exposure to sendeaZy.
Regards
Kiran Ramineni
..... sendeaZy - The easiest and secure way to send large files to anyone, Drag and drop send, one click download
-----------------
Kiran Ramineni, PMP
Director
Ramp Information Technology Inc
1700 Park St, Suite # 109,
Naperville, IL-60563
_____________________________________________
Jane Kaplan: Carbon Day Automotive
From: Jane Kaplan jane@jkaplancommunications.com
Subject: Carbon Day Automotive
Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:35:08 -0600
To: Jane Kaplan jane@jkaplancommunications.com
I hope you'll share this information with your readers.
Thank you.
Jane
Jane Kaplan Communications
400 Park Avenue, Suite D
Highland Park, IL 60035
Phone--847.433.8594
Fax--847.433.8505
jane@jkaplancommunications.com
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 23, 2009
FROM: Carbon Day Automotive CONTACT: Jane Kaplan
363 W. Erie Suite 400-W 847.433.8594
Chicago, IL 60654 jane@jkaplancommunications.com
CARBON DAY AUTOMOTIVE, ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR,
AND A123 SYSTEMS, INC.
OFFER COMPLETE ELECTRIFIED AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS
Carbon Day Automotive, Chicago, Illinois, is today announcing a collaborative initiative with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and A123 Systems, Inc. that can provide Green Fleet Vehicles capable of 99 mpg plus complete automotive Smart Grid charging solutions to municipalities and businesses throughout the United States. This strategic initiative, can afford fleet owners and individual consumers the ability to retrofit vehicles with A123 Systems Hymotion Plug-In Conversion Modules ("PCM's") with the secure knowledge that they will be able to "fuel" them at Smart Grid plug-in stations globally (some solar powered). This team effort will help to move this country closer to ending its dependence on foreign oil. The Coulomb Technologies ChargePoint® Networked Charging Stations have been selected by Carbon Day Automotive for powering all electric vehicles. They allow drivers to identify the location of unoccupied charging stations by using Google™ maps on web browsers and smart phones. Drivers are sent an email when their battery is recharged.
"The collaboration between Carbon Day Automotive, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and A123 Systems, Inc. is an exciting one that we believe can change the transportation industry in this country," stated Scott Emalfarb, a principal at Carbon Day Automotive. "Electric vehicles are not being manufactured fast enough and they are not being allocated to all major cities in this county. This program will put EV's on the road and give drivers the ability to find 'fuel' easily. Together, we are providing immediacy to what will otherwise take years to accomplish."
The current administration has made fuel reduction a top priority. President Obama set a goal for the country of one million plug-in electric vehicles on the road by the year 2015. The cooperation between Carbon Day Automotive, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and A123 Systems, Inc. is instrumental in helping to make that happen. Each is an industry leader and together they are providing complete, comprehensive, and integrated transportation solutions with Enterprise Rent-A-Car as the source for hybrid vehicles, A123 Systems, Inc. the provider of the plug-in conversions, and Carbon Day Automotive as the supplier of the necessary networked charging systems.
For more information please visit www.carbondayautomotive.com or call Jane Kaplan at 847.433.8594.
_________________________________________
Miscellaneous notes (10 messages)
________________________
#1: From: Name withheld upon request
Subject: Your 11/23/09 Post
Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:18:40 -0600
To: Ron May Report ron@themayreport.com
Ron,
Great post today. Frankly, I think most of your posts are too packed with stuff (tweets, dialysis, lists of business cards, etc.). But today's was quite good - and interesting.
Others have said this before but what you really have in TMR is a blog. And since I am an avid blogger as well ( www.flemishamerican.blogspot.com ) I thought you might appreciate this: http://tinyurl.com/yz8boq4 .
As a favor, please do not publish my name, e-mail address, or blog address. Thank you.
Have a great day,
[Name withheld]
__________________________________________
#2: From: Tony Close tc@closetechnology.com
Subject: Re: The May Report: 11/23/2009: ExactTarget raises another $70MM; Updates on Dan Limbach, crowdSPRING, Mike Carruth, Bob Brill and others; FinanceSeer; Hostway, QuesTek, and reflections on the entire enterprise -- of memory, writing and life.
Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:48:02 -0600
To: The May Report ron@themayreport.com
Your Briefly Noted section today is fascinating stuff, Ron. Hardly Brief, but still worthy of any of the literary references you cite. This must have been stream of consciousness writing for you to do this in 5 hours straight!
I was glad to see you looking so well at the MITEF meeting the other night.
Best,
- Tony
(p.s. Lawrence and Zhivago are 2 of my favorites too.)
=======================
Anthony D. Close, President
CTG, Inc.
Lake Forest, IL
847-533-3857
www.closetechnology.com
======================
___________________________________________
#3: From: daveatperrymar@comcast.net
Subject: Per Martin Glotzer
Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:07:08 +0000 (UTC)
To: ron@themayreport.com
Cc: mglotz@aol.com
Hello Ron:
Last night I spoke with a common friend of ours, Martin Glotzer, and he suggested contacting you.
I'm working with a group of experienced Wine and Spirits execs (from Jim Beam, Glazer's, Wirtz Beverage, etc.) on a distributor consolidation.
We're looking for funding to acquire 12-14 distributors in this space.
Martin thought you may be able to point me in the direction of PE/IB or private individuals who may be interested in an investment opportunity like this.
Total capital required is $50 million over 4-5 year period with a projected IRR of 30% +.
Any suggestions you have would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dave Perry
Accelerated Brands
________________________________________
#4: From: Lilly Wire lillywire@gmail.com
Subject: Question about advertising a job
Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:59:12 -0600
To: ron@themayreport.com
Dear Mr. May,
Can you advise if you allow open positions to list on your e-mail listserv. If so, are there costs associated with a listing?
Thank you for your time.
____________________________________
#5: From: Twitter twitter-dm-ron=themayreport.com@postmaster.twitter.com
Subject: Direct message from Mitchell T. Boersma
Date: Wed, 25 Nov 2009 03:58:35 +0000
To: ron@themayreport.com
Hi, Ron May.
You have a new direct message:
MitchBoersma: You're on here... http://video.twitter.expressplacement.com
Reply on the web at http://twitter.com/direct_messages/create/MitchBoersma
Send me a direct message from your phone: D MITCHBOERSMA
____________________________________
#6: From: John P. Katsantonis jpkattt@att.net
Subject: TIME IS ON MY SIDE
Date: Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:15:51 -0600
To: The May Report ron@themayreport.com
Had two rather intense special events last week, which culminated on Sunday. Rather unusual, but good.
Unfortunately, they kept me from having the time to write my YCC thingie for ya. So, given the long weekend, I can do that soon. Mind you, 83% of it (as mentioned) was "All About Me" stuff, and upon examination, the few other bits that weren't on my agenda I may be able to reconstruct.
Brian Connolly especially enjoyed the Python (Monty), Pink Floyd and other entertainment-related clients I work with ---- who wouldn't??? ---- as well as my superbly dry-witted, comic-but-factual approach to everything.
I also highlighted Ben Hecht, a journalist who went on to write and script-doctor the best and/or best-known films to ever come out of Hollywood....he of course wrote "Front Page" (and my favorite iteration of that film, "His Girl Friday") which still is one of the best embodiments of press room vagaries anywhere. I drew on other popular media (film and TV) representations of the journalism profession, so the students could view and weigh for themselves what it's like.
Anyway, "Please Stand By."
And Happy Thanksgiving to all~jk
_____________________________________________
#7: Subject: Re: Why are you and Terry Flanagan hanging out together?
Date: 11/22/2009 8:08:05 A.M. Central Standard Time
From: jason@jacobsohn.com
To: RONALDMAY@aol.com
Not sure what you mean. I know a lot of people so I may been at a meeting that he was at.
Jason
Jason Jacobsohn
773-368-0229
jason@jacobsohn.com
Website: http://www.Jacobsohn.com
Blog: http://www.NetworkingInsight.com
LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonjacobsohn
LinkedIn Group: http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=1947859
________________________________________
#8: Subject: RE: OK, Dave, after all these years, why are you unsubscribing? I am curious.
Date: 11/24/2009 7:46:10 A.M. Central Standard Time
From: ddailey@svb.com
To: RONALDMAY@aol.com
Hey Ron. I have been back in Boston for over 4 years and most of what you write about is unfamiliar to me at this point. Stay healthy and stay positive.
Dave
-------------------
From: RONALDMAY@aol.com [mailto:RONALDMAY@aol.com]
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2009 10:45 PM
To: Dave Dailey
Subject: OK, Dave, after all these years, why are you unsubscribing? I am curious.
___________________________________________
#9: Subject: Re: OK, Raman, time's up. What's going on with your operation?
Date: 11/23/2009 6:06:57 A.M. Central Standard Time
From: rchadha@depaul.edu
To: RONALDMAY@aol.com
I'm not sure what "time's up" is referring to. You get our weekly newsletter so you should be informed on our developments.
Raman
-----------------------------
From: Ron May <RONALDMAY@aol.com>
Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:15:22 -0600
To: Raman Chadha <rchadha@depaul.edu>
Subject: OK, Raman, time's up. What's going on with your operation?
____________________________________________
#10: Subject: RE: Question...
Date: 11/23/2009 9:17:29 A.M. Central Standard Time
From: Name withheld upon request
To: RONALDMAY@aol.com
Ron -
No names, please.
I think that you and [Name withheld] are very different in many ways, but share a few common personality traits to a greater or lesser extent. In some ways you're alike, but it would be unfair to both of you to try and draw too strong a comparison. Yes, you're both "single shingle" business types, but for mostly different reasons and you each have very different skill sets, IMHO. And no, I don't think that any mild bi-polar traits you may have really prevent you from functioning or doing your job.
What you have done with The May Report is nothing short of extraordinary - in terms of consistency, longevity, productivity -- and even occasional depth of reporting ;-) What you have done would be amazing for anyone by itself - the fact that you do what you do while managing some pretty serious medical issues is nothing short of astounding. This side of you earns many people's, including my own, deep respect.
I'm not particularly well-versed in clinical psychology, but my observation would be that the demons you fight are somewhat more emotional than functional. I have seen you do the classic bipolar loop-the-loop a few times - ecstatic in the morning, ready to throw in the towel by sundown. Might have as much to do with your blood sugar as your serotonin levels... Certainly does not prevent you from doing your job. Perhaps the most "flagrant" behavior quirk with you is more about interpersonal tone deafness. You truly don't understand how and why people react to you and don't grasp it even when it's spelled out for you in black and white. This is why you're being banned from more and more events as time goes on, but somehow the "teachable moments" aren't apparent to you.
In a lot of ways you share some of the more positive sides of Flip Filipowski than [Name withheld] - you're perhaps more hypomaniac than bipolar. You can get by on very little sleep sometimes, working non-stop for days on a particularly compelling story or pulling together something that just doesn't sit right with you. And in all honesty Ron, you're one of the smartest people I've ever encountered, but this is another side of yourself that you're almost blind to. You're twice as smart as Flip, and he's one of the most streetwise business-savvy people I've met. Not necessarily the most honest, but damn smart. And you eclipse him. This is one of the reasons Flip likes you despite the trouble you've caused him.
You have an incredible memory for past events, people and places, things said and by whom -- and can recall details like no one else I've ever known. This is part of the genius you possess, and I don't use that word lightly. But because it comes so easily and naturally to you, you're very fast to dismiss this gift as nothing. The fact that no one else you know has this ability does not seem to make an impression on you - again, another dimension of your tone deafness.
Anyway, those are some of my thoughts. And yes, your mother is right ~
Cheers,
[Name withheld]
From: RONALDMAY@aol.com
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2009 2:00 AM
To: Name withheld
Subject: Question...
November 23, 2009
[Name withheld],
Do you really think there is little difference between [Name withheld] and me given my consistency and longevity in doing this report, 21 years now, or 17.25 years since writing about Chicago high tech or 12.25 years doing the online report?
I may have some bi-polar traits, but they are not stopping me from functioning and doing my job.
Ron
_____________________________________________
comScore: Black Friday Boasts $595 Million in U.S. Online Holiday Spending, Up 11 Percent Versus Year Ago
Subject: comScore: Black Friday Boasts $595 Million in U.S. Online Holiday Spending, Up 11 Percent Versus Year Ago
Date: 11/29/2009 1:05:42 P.M. Central Standard Time
From: news@comscore.com
To: ronaldmay@aol.com
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO RESPOND TO THIS EMAIL WITH ANY QUESTIONS PERTAINING TO ITS CONTENT AT PRESS@COMSCORE.COM
To ensure delivery of comScore news releases, please add news@comscore.com to your safe senders list.
Greetings:
comScore (NASDAQ : SCOR), a leader in measuring the digital world, today reported holiday season retail e-commerce spending for the first 27 days of the November - December 2009 holiday season. For the holiday season-to-date, $10.57 billion has been spent online, marking a 3-percent increase versus the corresponding days last year. Black Friday (November 27) saw $595 million in online sales, making it the second heaviest online spending day to date in 2009 and representing an 11-percent increase versus Black Friday 2008.
The press release below is also available at: http://www.comscore.com/Press_Events/Press_Releases/2009/11/Black_Friday_Boasts_595_Million_in_U.S._Online_Holiday_Spending_Up_11_Percent_Versus_Year_Ago
Please let me know if you have any questions or would like to speak with an analyst.
Thank you,
Andrew Lipsman
comScore, Inc.
press@comscore.com
312-775-6510
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******************************* comScore, Inc. News Release*******************
Black Friday Boasts $595 Million in U.S. Online Holiday Spending, Up 11 Percent Versus Year Ago
Strong Lead-Up to Black Friday Boosts Holiday Spending Growth to 3 Percent for the First 27 Days of the Season
RESTON, VA, November 29, 2009 - comScore (NASDAQ : SCOR), a leader in measuring the digital world, today reported holiday season retail e-commerce spending for the first 27 days of the November - December 2009 holiday season. For the holiday season-to-date, $10.57 billion has been spent online, marking a 3-percent increase versus the corresponding days last year. Black Friday (November 27) saw $595 million in online sales, making it the second heaviest online spending day to date in 2009 and representing an 11-percent increase versus Black Friday 2008.
_____________________________________________________________________
2009 Holiday Season To Date vs. Corresponding Days* in 2008
Non-Travel (Retail) Spending
Excludes Auctions and Large Corporate Purchases
Total U.S. - Home/Work/University Locations
Source: comScore, Inc.
Millions ($)
2008 2009 Percent Change
November 1 - 27 $10,254 $10.570 3%
Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 26) $288 $318 10%
Black Friday (Nov. 27) $534 $595 11%
_____________________________________________________________________
*Corresponding days based on corresponding shopping days (November 2 thru November 28, 2008)
"Black Friday, better known as a shopping bonanza in brick-and-mortar retail stores, is increasingly becoming one of the landmark days in the online holiday shopping world," said comScore chairman, Gian Fulgoni. "The $595 million in online spending this Black Friday represents the second heaviest online spending day of the season-to-date and a double-digit increase from last year. While this acceleration in spending suggests the online holiday season may be shaping up slightly more optimistically than anticipated, it may also reflect the heavy discounting and creative promotions being put forth by retailers that now encompass the use of social networks such as Facebook and Twitter. Cyber Monday - the traditional kick-off to the online holiday shopping season - and the subsequent weeks will be the real test for how online retailers fare this season. That said, this is a very encouraging start."
Promotions and Black Friday Bargains Drive Jump in Online Sales Activity
Over the years, the online channel has become an increasingly influential driver in offline shopping behavior. Before making purchases in brick-and-mortar retail locations, consumers have become adept at doing their research beforehand. The array of sites doing round-ups of Black Friday deals are becoming more popular than ever.
comScore studied eight Black Friday deal sites for the five days ending Black Friday (Nov. 23-27) compared to the corresponding days last year, finding that BFads.net led the pack with 3.9 million unique visitors, up 4 percent versus last year. BlackFriday.info followed with 3.5 million visitors, while Black-Friday.net (up 136 percent to 2.3 million visitors) showed the fastest growth.
_____________________________________________________________________
Unique Visitors to Selected Sites Featuring Black Friday Deals
Nov. 23-27, 2009 vs. Nov. 24-28, 2008
Total U.S. - Home/Work/University Locations
Source: comScore, Inc.
Unique Visitors (000)
Nov. 24-28, 2008 Nov. 23-27, 2009 Percent
Change
BFads.net 3,768 3,903 4%
BlackFriday.info 4,154 3,458 -17%
Black-Friday.net 956 2,258 136%
TheBlackFriday.com 1,466 1,370 -7%
BlackFriday.fm 487 608 25%
BlackFriday.com 1,008 550 -45%
BlackFriday.gottadeal.com 862 466 -46%
BlackFriday2009.com N/A 266 N/A
_____________________________________________________________________
Some other notable findings about Black Friday deal-seeking include:
· The number of visitors to coupon sites on Black Friday grew 17 percent versus year ago to 3.3 million visitors.
· BlackFriday.info was the most visited coupon site on Black Friday with 748,000 unique visitors, followed by RetailMeNot.com (356,000 visitors) and Eversave.com (253,000).
· ShopLocal.com ranked as the most visited comparison shopping site on Black Friday with 2 million visitors, up 31 percent versus year ago.
Amazon Tops among Online Retail Properties on Black Friday
Five retail properties surpassed four million U.S. unique visitors (i.e. four million different people) on Black Friday, with each of these properties experiencing gains versus last year. Amazon Sites was the most visited retail property on Black Friday, growing 28 percent from the corresponding shopping day a year ago, followed closely by Walmart, which grew 22 percent. Apple.com Worldwide Sites (up 39 percent), Target Corporation (up 2 percent) and Best Buy Sites (up 24 percent) rounded out the top five.
_____________________________________________________________________
Growth in Unique Visitors Among Top 5 Most Visited Retailer Properties on Black Friday
Excludes Auction Sites (e.g. eBay)
Black Friday 2009 vs. Black Friday 2008
Total U.S. - Home/Work/University Locations
Source: comScore, Inc.
Retail Property Percent Change in
Unique Visitors
Amazon Sites 28%
Walmart 22%
Apple.com Worldwide Sites 39%
Target Corporation 2%
Best Buy Sites 24%
_____________________________________________________________________
"Much attention has focused on Amazon and Walmart this season, and both retailers performed particularly well online on Black Friday in terms of attracting visitors," added Mr. Fulgoni. "We will be watching closely to see how these retailers perform during these next critical weeks of the season."
About comScore
comScore, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCOR) is a global leader in measuring the digital world and preferred source of digital marketing intelligence. For more information, please visit www.comscore.com/companyinfo.
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CMAP Economic Recovery Update, 11-25-09
From: Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning info@cmap.illinois.gov
Sender: Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning info@cmap-illinois.ccsend.com
Subject: CMAP Economic Recovery Update, 11-25-09
Date: Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:22:51 -0500 (EST)
To: ron@themayreport.com
November 25, 2009
Table of Contents
Regional ARRA Coordinating Council News and Progress
New ARRA Developments, Opportunities, and Tracking Analyses Related to RACC Focus Areas
Transportation and Other Regional Developments
Stimulus in the News
Regional ARRA Coordinating Council News and Progress
ARRA Implementation Spotlight: Central States SER serves more youth, elderly with stimulus funds. Central States SER - Jobs for Progress, Inc. is a local workforce and economic development agency based in metropolitan Chicago (SER, which means "to be" in Spanish, is an acronym for Service, Employment, and Redevelopment). Stimulus funds, received as increases to already existing contracts and through competitive procurement awards, have allowed SER to serve many more individuals. The money helped the agency provide services for many additional youth and elderly, two groups that are typically much more difficult to employ during an economic recession.
SER received formula Workforce Investment Act (WIA) funds for adult and dislocated workers through the City of Chicago's Department of Community Development . Additionally, SER received summer youth program funds through the City's Department of Family and Support Services. Approximately 475 youth gained valuable training and subsidized work experience this summer through the agency. Without stimulus funds, SER would have been unable to offer this summer employment opportunity to the youth. The six-week program provided individuals from the ages of 14 to 24 with one week of job training and the chance to work at a business or non-profit for the other five weeks. Individuals were placed with 209 different employers and worked 20 to 30 hours a week for $8/hour. Program participants were placed with employers based on their interest, and approximately 100 students in the program were refugees.
"Most of the kids we worked with had never had a job," youth program manager Maritza Vargas said. "The kids were proud they could earn a wage and say they were working. This wasn't just a summer job, but a transition period." Not only were the youth provided with job experience and training to help them get another job in the future, 24 program participants were offered permanent jobs following their subsidized summer employment.
With additional WIA funding through the stimulus, SER was able to increase the number of individuals it served and services provided at three of its five sites throughout the City; its site in Little Village was able to increase the number of people served in its WIA program by 100 percent.
The agency also serves as the provider for Senior Community Service Employment Program, which offers seniors subsidized part-time job experience to gain new skills throughout Cook, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties. Previously, SER only had the capacity to serve 220 seniors, and now the agency can serve 270 seniors.
SER also received stimulus funds from Chicago's Department of Family and Support Services for the expansion of Community Service Centers. These centers allow individuals who may not qualify for WIA funding to find employment and get job skills training. "[The centers] mostly serve individuals whose income may be a bit higher, like the working poor who would otherwise fall through the cracks and wouldn't have support," executive director Rachel McDonald Romo said. Additionally, SER received competitive funding through the City to expand its Healthcare Bridge program, which provides education and job training for individuals with low educational attainment through partnerships with local community colleges. Though the program is funded through multiple grants, the expansion of the program with stimulus funds will enable an additional 60 individuals to be served.
"So many times seniors and youth have a really hard time finding employment," McDonald Romo said. "This subsidized work really gives them the confidence they need to go out and look for unsubsidized jobs."
Needs assessment survey reminder. If you have applied or plan on applying for stimulus grants in the following categories, please fill out our needs assessment survey. The survey covers the ARRA program areas of Weatherization, the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants (EECBG), Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing (HPRP), Workforce training dollars (WIA formula or other eligible funds), Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Community Service Block Grants (CSBG), and National Foreclosure Mitigation Counseling.
Recovery blog. Confused about recipient reporting and job creation numbers as a result of the stimulus? We delve into the issue in our stimulus blog, examining the latest media and government reports. RACC members The Chicago Community Trust (CCT) and Chicago Jobs Council (CJC) who co-hosted a regional workforce development meeting with CMAP in early November (read more below).
Next steps and action updates. On November 9th the Chicago Jobs Council (CJC), in partnership with the Chicago Community Trust (CCT) and CMAP, hosted a daylong meeting on regional workforce development. A key goal of the meeting was to discuss the recommendations for workforce development developed by the CJC and an advisory council, which included 19 workforce development stakeholders. The report was commissioned by the Chicago Community Trust for the GO TO 2040 plan (read more about it on the GO TO 2040 blog). At the meeting, 85 stakeholders in education and workforce and economic development evaluated opportunities for regional collaboration across information systems, within targeted sectors, and in career training pathways. Additional opportunities for participation in this process and the implementation of the recommendations are forthcoming. See the CJC website for meeting materials, including the full report. You can read more about the event as it relates to the stimulus on our blog.
All recipient reporting for grants, loans and contracts is now available on Recovery.gov (read more about it on our blog). CMAP will begin to analyze reported data for the region, and findings will be included in our Recovery blog and in future Economic Recovery Updates. These efforts to support transparency and accountability in the spending and reporting of stimulus money have received significant media attention in past weeks due to the discovery of inaccurate recipient reporting published on the government's stimulus website. Visit our Recovery blog to learn about steps being taken by the federal government to protect reporting errors and prevent them in the future. ProPublica recently published its own FAQ for Recovery.gov (with an additional FAQ follow up) to help individuals understand the massive amounts of data available online. The Chicago Tribune recently published their own analysis.
On October 19th the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued a funding opportunity announcement for $454 million in nationally competitive funds for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. This is a highly competitive grant with a focus on large-scale initiatives that will achieve permanent market transformation; DOE expects to make 8-20 awards nationally ranging from $5 million to $75 million. CMAP believes strongly in the need for regional collaboration as the energy efficiency and retrofit market will operate most efficiently on a regional scale. CMAP is working with partners and will be submitting an application for the grant's retrofit ramp-up program.
CMAP and the Chicago Neighborhood Technology (CNT) are working together to provide a new resource for EECBG recipients. Many people have expressed interest through the Needs Assessment Survey and in other ways for information on best practices, template documents, and other resources to assist in EECBG program design and implementation. We will be launching an online forum, known as Basecamp, to do just that and to provide a venue for questions and answers. The site will be accessible to those that sign-up to receive a user name and password. Please contact Lindy Wordlaw at lindy@cntenergy.org to sign up.
New ARRA Developments, Opportunities, and Tracking Analyses Related to RACC Focus Areas
Energy and Weatherization. The Illinois State Energy Office was awarded $500,000 from the Department of Energy (DOE) in stimulus funds for industrial efficiency projects, according to the funding announcement. Click here to read more about the Illinois Energy Plan.
Argonne National Laboratory in DuPage County was awarded an additional $8.8 million from DOE to conduct advanced battery prototype fabrication research on November 18. Check out the Economic Recovery Update from November 12 to learn about other stimulus money Argonne received recently.
Workforce Development. Building a green economy with green jobs has been a major focus of the stimulus (read more about funding opportunities on our blog). On November 18, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced $55 million in green jobs grants, which will "support job training and labor market information programs to help workers, many in undeserved communities, find jobs in expanding green industries and related occupations." Some organizations in our region were awarded for Green Jobs Capacity Building, including: Easter Seals, Inc. in Chicago ($99,956), OAI, Inc. in Chicago ($100,000), Youth Conservation Corps in Waukegan ($100,000), and YouthBuild Lake County in North Chicago ($100,000).
The unemployment rate in the state of Illinois rose .5 percent to 11.0 percent in October, reports the Illinois Department of Employment Security. While the Trade and Transportation and Manufacturing sectors lost jobs, the Educational and Health Services, Professional and Business Services, and Construction sectors reported gains in employment.
Housing. There are some new valuable resources online for learning more about foreclosures and the housing crisis. The Woodstock Institute is managing a new site, http://www.regionalhopi.org , which provides information and news on the foreclosure crisis, ranging from how to find a foreclosure prevention counselor to tracking proposed housing-related legislation in Springfield. This work for the site is done by the Regional Home Ownership Preservation Initiative, a collaboration of more than 70 organizations including the CCT, Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. The collaborative helped coordinate south and west suburban Cook County communities to apply together for federal NSP money.
Chicago Public Radio has a new media project, Facing the Mortgage Crisis, which features a range of stories on those affected by the foreclosure crisis throughout the Chicago area. Check out their reports, slideshows, and blog.
Transportation and Other Regional Developments
Transportation. More than 10,000 transportation projects have been funded by the stimulus, according to a press release from the White House. More than $48.1 billion has been made available by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to date. DOT spending on infrastructure projects reached $5.9 billion on November 13, with the most recent $2 billion coming since the beginning of October, reports the Journal of Commerce.
Broadband. The first rounds of stimulus money for broadband projects will be coming out soon from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the U.S. Rural Utilities Services (RUS), reports BroadbandCensus.com. Money will start flowing to states as soon as early next month, with grants following in early 2010; $7.2 billion can be distributed before September 2010.
Other funding opportunities. Applications are now being accepted for Race to the Top stimulus funds from the Department of Education. Applications will come from Governors on behalf of the states they represent. Awards are intended for States that are "leading the way with ambitious yet achievable plans for implementing coherent, compelling, and comprehensive education reform," according to the grant announcement. The first round of applications are due on January 19, 2010, with the second round due June 1, 2010. For more information, check out Medill Reports.
Stimulus in the News
Interested in how hiring managers in the public and private sectors are evaluating the impact of the stimulus? CareerBuilder.com conducted a nationwide survey of 3,100 managers to see how the stimulus has impacted business performance. Good news: both employers who received stimulus funds and those who did not were able to add employees this year thanks to ARRA.
Statewide home sales are up this quarter in the State, according to a study done by the Illinois Association of REALTORS. Some of this can be attributed to the first-time buyer tax credit, according to the association.
The stimulus package is working, analysts and economists say, according to The New York Times. With approximately a quarter of the $787 billion on the ground now, the stimulus package helped end the free fall of the economy and shed fewer jobs than it otherwise would have, according to the story.
The state is using a $500,000 federal grant to expand a program operated by the Easter Seals, with the help of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, which links veterans with jobs once they return from deployment. Operation Employ Veterans, according to the Chicago Tribune, trains "employers about the benefits of hiring veterans and workplace issues veterans may face such as combat-related disabilities and post traumatic stress disorder."
The Chicago Reporter featured a great story on opportunities for individuals to land green jobs with the recent influx of stimulus money.
About the CMAP Economic Recovery Update
Every other Wednesday, the Regional ARRA Coordinating Council (RACC) sends an email with updates and analyses of select American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) programs, with a focus on region-wide and suburban initiatives. These emails, which will also be posted on CMAP's Recovery blog, are meant to provide useful information on funding announcements, collaboration efforts, and tracking of where and how stimulus funds are being spent in the region. Council members who are experts on energy, weatherization, job training, and housing programs (the RACC focus area), as well as the Governor's office, contribute to these updates, providing unique and timely information. In addition, the updates cover important developments and news on stimulus spending in other areas, such as transportation, health care, education, and activity at the state level.
We are interested in your stimulus news! The Economic Recovery Updates will feature local examples of the stimulus being put to work, so please contact Justine Reisinger (jreisinger@cmap.illinois.gov or 312-386-8802) with your news and examples.
____________________________________________
December 9, 2009: MEF networking event reminder
From: Jerry R. Mitchell jerry@jerryrmitchellandassoc.com
Subject: FW: The Midwest Entrepreneurs Forum Reminder
Date: Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:02:44 -0600
To: jerry@jerryRmitchellandassoc.com
Reminder price increases December 1st
NETWORKING EVENT
The Midwest Entrepreneurs' Forum Wednesday December 9th 2009
Networking Event
Date: Wednesday December 9th, 2009
Time: 5:30 - 9:00 PM
Location: Union League Club - 2nd Floor Lounge 65 West Jackson Chicago, IL.
Cost Online Registration with Credit Card before November 30th will be $20
for MEF Members and $30 for Non-Members.
For Online Registration, Please go to:
www.MidwestEntrepreneursForum.Org AND CLICK ON CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND SELECT
NETWORKING EVENT
Reservation fees are non-refundable! By registering on line you agree that
you have read this and that you agree.
Admission at the Door and after November 30th will be $30 for MEF Members
and $40 for Non-Members.
We are asking you to please preregister so we can better plan on the food
and other services we must order ahead of time in order to have a successful
event.
For further information send an email to:
info@midwestentrepreneursforum.org
Or call the MEF Headquarters at 630-305-0005
There will be two bowls at the registration table. One is for the drawings
for door prizes donated by our supporters. The second is for our networking
mailing list.
Everyone who puts their business card in the bowl marked networking mailing
list will receive a copy of all who registered
What is this event?
A semi-annual get-together of many of the Chicago area's most successful
entrepreneurs, MEF Board members, international representatives, a host of
budding entrepreneurs, and many of the Chicago area's most influential
business people.
Enjoy a cash bar and a wonderful hors d' oeuvres buffet.
. Anyone interested in meeting entrepreneurs, and entrepreneurial
supporters such as lawyers, accountants, consultants, academics, and others.
. Anyone interested in working with early stage or entrepreneurial
Companies
. Entrepreneurs looking for highly skilled management and ways to
enhance
their company performance
. Anyone interested in expanding a personal network
. Anyone interested in attending a great party!
. Members of the scores of companies who have presented to the group
in the past.
Door Prize Drawings will occur throughout the evening
There are a limited number of sponsorship tables available that can be
purchased on a first come basis.
Please call 630-305-0005 to become a sponsor
o $700 Sponsorship
. 4 free entrance passes for representatives from your company (please
supply names of attendees)
. Signage at entrance
. Free attendee list sent electronically after event
. Two 1-year Memberships for representatives from your company (please
supply names)
. Display your company promotional materials at a 6' skirted table within
the networking meeting room
o $500 Sponsorship
. 2 free entrance passes for representatives from your company (please
supply names of attendees)
. Signage at entrance
. Free attendee list sent electronically after event
. One 1-year Membership for a representatives from your company (please
supply names)
. Display your company promotional materials at a 6' skirted table within
the networking meeting room
o $250 Sponsorship
. 1 free entrance pass for representative from your company (please
supply names of attendees)
. Display your company promotional materials at a 6' skirted table within
the networking meeting room
. Signage at entrance
. Free attendee list sent electronically after event
If you need additional information please send an email to:
jerry@jerryRmitchellandassoc.com or call Midwest Entrepreneurs' Forum
(630-305-0005).
Again if you are interested do it today.
___________________________________________
Newsletter from The Coleman Center at DePaul listing some upcoming events: Ramanations; New PeerCircle Gathering
From: Coleman Center Coleman_Center@mail.vresp.com
Subject: Ramanations; New PeerCircle Gathering
Date: Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:33:27 +0000
To: ron@themayreport.com
Please add Coleman_Center@mail.vresp.com to your whitelist.
Click to view this email in a browser
November 24, 2009
For Business Owners & Entrepreneurs
Members-Only Gathering: PeerCircle
During this Members-Only Gathering on Friday, Dec. 4, Coleman Center members and their guests will address issues they are currently facing with their businesses in a roundtable discussion. This event is free and open to members and their guests only. Learn more and RSVP.
Get Involved: Become a Member
Learn how your business can benefit from a Coleman Center membership. Join now.
From Our Blog
Ramanations: Random Thoughts, Observations, Questions & Commentary
Raman Chadha, Executive Director, comments on various subjects surrounding entrepreneurship. Read blog.
Business Ledger's Dec. 2 Panel Discussion Event
Join the Coleman Center Dec. 2 at the Business Ledger's Newsmakers' Forum, 2010 Business & Economic Outlook, for a panel discussion and networking. Join us.
Women's Business Development Center 2009 Technology Makeover Competition
This competition gives business owners the opportunity to compete for a technology makeover for their company based on how well they have run their businesses to date. Enter today.
From Books to Business: Student Entrepreneurs
In today's struggling economy, more and more undergraduate students are struggling to find jobs and are turning to entrepreneurship. Read the recent ABC news article.
© 2009 Coleman Entrepreneurship Center at DePaul University | 1 E. Jackson Blvd. Ste 8100 | Chicago, IL 60604
312.362.8625 | cec@depaul.edu | Forward to a Friend
This email is sponsored by:
____________________________________________
Cards Ron collected at MEF 11/09/2009
Kiran K. Ramineni
Director
Ramp Information Technology Inc
ramineni@rampinfo.com
Jim Grass
Networking Liason
Mentor Mastermind, Inc.
www.mentormastermind.com
jim@Mentormastermind.com
Ronald D. Zoromski, CPA
Finance Executive and Business Partner
www.linkedin.com/in/ronzoromski
ronzoromski@aol.com
Richard L. Darnell
Follow Your Bliss Right Now.com
lets@followyourblissrightnow.com
Thomas J. Liskey, CPA
Partner
B2b Cfo
www.b2bcfo.com
tliskey@b2bcfo.com
Robert K. Frumkin
Principal
Cadreas
rfrumkin@cadreas.com
Michael Pinelli
Project Executive
Catalyst
www.catalyst-grp.com
mpinelli@catalyst-grp.com
Dylan Morgan
Business Development
Prairie Business Credit, Inc.
www.prairiebiz.com
dmorgan@prairiebiz.com
Joseph P. Kazielski
Executive Leader/Operational Problem Solver
kazielski@yahoo.com
William Hartzell, MBA
Principal
Facilities Solutions Group
hartzell@facsol.com
Philip Domenico
Catalyst
www.catalyst-grp.com
pdomenico@catalyst-grp.com
Scott Prugh
CSG Systems
Scott_prugh@csgsystems.com
William A. Price
Attorney at Law
Growth Law
www.growthlaw.com
WPrice@growthlaw.com
Steve Cook
Virtual Construction Manager
The Walsh Group
www.walshgroup.com
scook@walshgroup.com
Robert F. McMillan, Jr.
Certified Cash Flow Consultant
Freeman Funding Solutions, L.L.C.
www.freemanfundingsolution.com
freemanfunding@aol.com
Chris Savaiano
President
Savco Corporation
chris@savcocorp.com
Goran
Lukic
Design Quality Indicator
www.dqionline.com
goran@dqionline.com
Richard W. Pilcher
Rwpilcher@aol.com
___________________________________________
Cards Ron collected at the Heartland Angels panel on CFOs 11/10/2009
Miroslav (Mick) Anic
Freshwater Associates LLC
Mutual Realty of Wisconsin LLC
manic@aya.yale.edu
Gary C. Parks
Chief Financial Officer
Immtech Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
www.immtechpharma.com
gparks@immtechpharma.com
R. Richard Wieland II
rrwieland@comcast.net
Matt Matigian
Blue World Asset Managers
mmatigian@blueworldam.com
Cynthia Jamison
Chief Financial Officer
AquaSpy
www.aquaspy.com
cjamison@aquaspy.com
Tom Wilkas
tomwilkas@yahoo.com
Dirk B. Landis
Senior Managing Partner
Tatum
www.tatumllc.com
dirk.landis@tatumllc.com
B. Terrance Flanagan
Resource Matchmaker
Smart Decisions
bflanagan@smartdecisionllc.com
John Y. Lafferty
MBA, CPA
CFO Pro
www.cfo-pro.com
jlafferty@cfo-pro.com
Jeff Mattson
Attorney at Law
Freeborn & Peters LLP
www.freebornpeters.com
jmattson@freebornpeters.com
Perry L. Weinstein
Partner
Director of Real Estate Services
FGMK, LLC
www.fgmk.net
pweinstein@fgmk.net
Byron V. Kanaley
Profit Techniques, LLC
bkanaley@aol.com
_____________________________________________
Cards Ron collected at Chicago Booth Alumni Dinner at Navy Pier 11/06/2009
Nicholas Fok
Analyst
Copia Capital
nfok@copiacap.com
Jeffrey J. Anderson
Associate Dean
Leadership Development
ChicagoBooth
Jeffrey.anderson@chicagobooth.edu
Erick Cruz
Breakthrough Technologies, LLC
www.breaktech.com
cruze@breaktech.com
Ed Kapllan
Nalpak Inc
ekaplan@zebra.com
Aaron D.P. Chandler
Executive Vice President
Txdl
www.txdel.com
achandler@txdel.com
______________________________________________
Cards Ron collected at the ASP meeting on 11/18/2009 about the Miller Coors merger
Diane M. Meister
President
Meridian Associates Inc.
www.meridianAi.com
dianem@meridianAi.com
Frederick 'Rick' Kaufmann
Vice President
Commercial Banking
Charter One
frederick.r.kaufmann@charteronebank.com
Catherine M. Dennis
Partner
Zanon Group
www.zanongroup.com
catherine@zanongroup.com
Richard S. Bullock
Managing Director
Dynamic Strategies & Plans Group
dystrat@ameritech.net
Gary V. Roll
Management Professional
ChicagoBooth
garyroll@mindspring.com
Lori Chavez
Marketing Executive
lori-chavez@sbcglobal.net
Kerry Heiple
Managing Director
Two Degrees
kerryh@twodegrees.com
Keith M. Chiavetta
President and CEO
Chiavetta Management Advisors, LLC
keith@chiavettamangementadvisors.com
Wei (Norah) Tang
Marketing Communication/Research/Consulting
www.linkedin.com/in/weitang2009
wtang7@uic.edu
Neva Frank
Supply Chain Professional
neva_anne@yahoo.com
Terry Vohasek
www.linkedin.com/in/terryv
tvohasek@comcast.net
Jeri Moore
Finance and Real Estate Solutions
JMCS Consulting
JeriLMoore@gmail.com
Jerry W. Szatan
Principal
Szatan & Associates
www.szatanassociates.com
Jerry@szatanassociates.com
Farhad K. Patel
Jenner & Block
www.jenner.com
fpatel@jenner.com
Jason I. Lake
Principal
NexGon Advisors
www.ngallc.com
jlake@ngallc.com
Paul Stark
Marketing Manager
pauljstark@comcast.net
Melissa Passalacqua
Director of Business Development
Italian American Chamber of Commerce
www.italianchamber.us
mpass@italianchamber.us
John W. Sterling
Partner
Smock Sterling
jsterling@smocksterling.com
Kymme Lightfoot
McGhee
kymme.lightfoot@mcgheepro.com
Fulvio Calcinardi
Executive Director
Italian American Chamber of Commerce
www.italianchamber.us
fcalci@italianchamber.us
Dennis N. Aust
Managing Director
CharterMast Partners
www.chartermast.com
dennis.aust@chartermast.com
Kelli McClain
Manager
Alvarez & Marsal
www.alvarezandmarsal.com
kmcclain@alvarezandmarsal.com
Craig McClory
Managing Director
Alvarez & Marsal
www.alvarezandmarsal.com
cmcclory@alvarezandmarsal.com
Peter M. Gaines
Partner
Jenner & Block
www.jenner.com
pgaines@jenner.com
Robert E. Cronin
Managing Director
CBIZ Valuation Group, LLC
www.cbizvaluation.com
rcronin@cbiz.com
Kelly Stickel
Manager, Vendor Relations
Acquity Group
www.acquitygroup.com
kelly.stickel@acquitygroup.com
Michael J. Huthwaite
Director
FinanceSeer
www.financeseer.com
michael.huthwaite@financeseer.com
Thomas P. Kuchan
kuchans@sbcglobal.net
Gary P. Segal
Attorney at Law
Dykema
www.dykema.com
gsegal@dykema.com
Donald B. Franklin
President
Donald B. Franklin, Inc.
DBFranklinInc@aol.com
____________________________________
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