FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

August 20, 2010

Artistic Digital Services, Inc., a graphic arts and web development firm based in Evanston, IL, launched its new website today - www.artisticdigital.com. Included is a more robust portfolio, electronic print and website quoting, links to it’s Collab2 project management system, vendor uploading and company bios and corporate capabilities. “We’re tweaking some content and polishing but she’s ready for business. Additional SEO/SEM and a bit of code to facilitate mobile devices is up next.” said Brian Whyers, CEO of the company since it’s inception in 1994.

I recently had the pleasure of working with Stuart Pluskar, of Square One Productions fame, as voice-over talent on a presentation for a client (see link below). The experience was a pleasure, not only due to his talent and collaborative input, but with his patience and professionalism during the process. We had several technical issues that required additional sessions and Stuart’s “whatever it takes” attitude was refreshing. The voice-over simply made this piece in my opinion. I invite you to take a look for yourself. Cudos to Stuart - I thank you my friend. I highly recommend him as voice-over talent and, if this is any insight to his event planning biz… that as well.

PRESENTATION VIEW OPTIONS - when on the site, if you’re on a good “hook” as far as speed, simply view the .SWF. If not, I would suggest downloading one of the .flv’s

Brian Whyers - Artistic Digital Services, Inc.

I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed Ken Dermer fest…. lol

This event showed us in our best light through the closeness of the group, effective lead and project sharing, smooth running of the event, charitable nature, fun (the Sox / Cubs caskets were too much Larry). More guests would have been better but, all in all, a job very well done!

Brian Whyers - ADS

Briefly, I have to applaud what Don Johanson mentioned at last evenings meeting (which, in comparison to previous “*^%!! sessions was mild)… Given our new tag line (a well considered concept before adoption),  let’s pull together this year in two areas: 1) Get out of our comfort zones and get to know members better and   2) Consistently keep our fellow member’s businesses in mind as we go about our day-to-day interactions.

With these in mind, as well as visitors / new members per our new Presidential Directive (make sure to check with Ira)…. we should be able to help one another through the rough spot in the road. Cheers everyone!

Brian Whyers - ADS

In the past couple of years my staff and I have been through a couple of interesting courses.  Just like Architects and doctors we need to go to these to get our continuing education credits to remain certified in our perspective fields.  For us it is Certified Remodeler CR and Certified Lead Carpenter CLC.

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Mornin’ Y’all-

Edie’s email yesterday reminded me that I’m a little tardy with an important “thank you” myself.

Brian Whyers Rules!!

So, if you haven’t already done so, please support Artistic Digital Services.  (more…)

As the country is in a time of crisis, mortgage programs keep disappearing very rapidly!  Currently there are almost 300 lenders from all over the country that have closed their doors.  Additionally, there are about 30 different mortgage programs that have either disappeared or changed their guidelines.   I am urging any self-employed or wage earning borrower who does NOT show income to validate their profession or debt, to begin talks with myself and your CPA or accountant to prepare for  your next mortgage.  If your company shows small amounts of income or a loss, or not enough money to pay your debt every month, you will NOT qualify for a loan.  Even if you have assets and excellent credit, the programs and guidelines have changed significantly. 

I will be happy to sit with any Guild Member or referral at no cost, to go ove a plan for the future.  Please call Edie Jerome of Metro Mortgage at 847 853 7150. 

Do you make goals, and then never track them?  You’re like most everyone.  Except those companies and business owners that take advantage of advisory boards.  Advisory boards usually meet quarterly for private companies and track the progress toward the predefined goals for the organization.  It’s a great way to keep on track.  If we have enough interest, we could form such a group within the Guild.  If you are interested, please contact Michael Moran, American Chartered Bank, at 312-492-1104, or mmoran@americanchartered.com.  

Most of us are reading about the credit crunch that is coming. For the most part, this only pertains to a small segment of the market…mostly sub-prime individuals (meaning less than good credit individuals, not less than the Prime rate borrowers). For the businesses that are credit worthy, there is plenty of credit available at very attractive rates. Is your company credit worthy? Well generally, good credit companies have a history of positive cash flow and earnings (although some fluctuation is understandable depending on the industry), and the company has built a strong net worth relative to liabilities. The Liabilities to Tangible Net Worth ratio is looked at by many commercial bankers as a strong indicator of a companies long term financial health.

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Reverse Mortgages often fit a need in the Senior Community.  Metro Mortgage is now offering this service to everyone.  Reverse Mortgages often are the answer for Seniors who are running out of cash, or have limited financial resources.  A reverse mortgage can help an elderly parent or relative live their life independantly, not having to rely on their family or children for financial help.  If anyone in your family or circle of friends is looking for this type of loan Metro Mortgage can help.  Please contact Edie Jerome, President at 847 776 8070 or by email at idoloans13@ameritech.net or through her website www.metromtgservices.com.