The Chicago Journal

How Superior Business Lending Is Changing Financing for Growing Chicagoland Businesses

The Chicago Journal Staff on January 6, 2026

Small and mid-sized businesses in Chicago are hungry for growth, but the capital landscape hasn’t kept up with their needs. Banks still hesitate to lend to unconventional businesses, younger companies, or firms with uneven cash flow. That hesitation leaves too many strong operators stuck, ready to take the next move but lacking the financial power to do it. 

Superior Business Lending is changing that dynamic by providing borrowers with access to more innovative options, more precise guidance, and funding strategies tailored to real-world business pressures. Whether it’s a manufacturer on the South Side needing bad-credit equipment financing, a software company seeking expert mezzanine financing in the Chicago area, or a franchisee looking to buy out a partner, Superior’s model is simple. They strive to find the right lender for the right borrower, regardless of the deal’s complexity.

Championing Underserved Businesses

“Too many great businesses are told ‘no’ just because they don’t check every traditional box,” says Jeff Gerstner, Owner of Superior Business Lending. “At Superior Business Lending, our job is to help businesses get to ‘yes.’ And that starts with understanding their story and assessing their strengths so we can place them with lenders who see their potential.”

That people-first mindset is the backbone of Superior’s work. Gerstner built the company around the idea that small- and mid-sized businesses deserve the same level of guidance, sophistication, and optionality as large corporations. Access to capital should never hinge on whether a business owner knows the “right” lender or banking language. By investing time in understanding how a business really operates, Superior can bridge the gap between what borrowers need and what lenders are willing to support.

This approach has been especially valuable in a post-pandemic landscape, where traditional lending standards tightened while entrepreneurs faced cash flow swings, staffing challenges, and rising costs. Many otherwise strong businesses have blemished credit, uneven revenue, or unconventional models; factors that can stop a bank from taking a chance. Superior steps into that gap, helping owners present their financial story clearly and navigate a lending market that can feel opaque and inconsistent.

By giving these businesses access to a broader network of funding sources, Superior helps owners secure the capital necessary to hire, expand, purchase equipment, or pursue new opportunities.

A Broker Model Built for Complexity

Superior Business Lending operates on a simple yet powerful belief that businesses shouldn’t be limited by a single lending product or a single lender’s preferences. As a wholly independent business lending broker, the firm can step back, evaluate a company’s financial picture from multiple angles, and design a lending path that reflects real-world needs.

Behind the scenes, SBL has built a vast network of regional banks, national lenders, private credit groups, and specialty financing partners. Those relationships, combined with a deep understanding of how each lender evaluates risk, allow SBL to match clients with funding sources that align with their business model and timing needs. Business owners don’t have to become experts in credit markets just to secure the capital required to grow. Instead, they gain a partner who understands how to structure deals creatively, present their strengths effectively, and open doors that traditional underwriting might leave closed.

This independence is what makes SBL especially valuable. Instead of pushing businesses toward one product, the team analyzes whether they’re better served by term loans, asset-based lending, equipment financing, factoring, SBA options, mezzanine capital, or a hybrid structure. That flexibility allows the firm to solve problems that a single bank or lender simply can’t. 

Mezzanine Financing Gains Ground

As more mid-sized companies face opportunities to scale through acquisition, new locations, or significant capital improvements, traditional senior debt alone often isn’t enough to close the gap. Mezzanine financing fills that gap, offering a flexible layer of capital between secured loans and equity.

Superior’s role in this landscape is to help business owners understand when it makes sense, how it fits into their broader capital stack, and which lenders in their network are the right match. Because mezzanine terms can vary widely depending on structure, collateral, and growth plans, many business leaders benefit from a broker that can translate their goals into a straightforward, lender-ready narrative.

Superior assists by identifying reputable funding groups, preparing financials for review, and ensuring borrowers understand the tradeoffs, such as interest costs and covenants, before committing. As demand for this type of financing increases across Chicagoland’s growing mid-market sector, Superior is an advisor that brings clarity to an otherwise complex corner of business finance.

Flexible Financing for SMEs Adapting to Economic Shifts

It’s not just large corporations that benefit from creative structuring. Superior’s approach to flexible financing considers each business’s unique lifecycle, from its high-growth phase to seasonal slowdowns.

Whether you’re an early-stage entrepreneur looking to finance new equipment, a second-generation family business eyeing expansion, or a middle-market company preparing to acquire a competitor, Superior Business Lending offers something the typical lender doesn’t: options.

By leveraging deep experience in expert mezzanine financing and providing flexible financing for Chicagoland SMEs, the company continues to earn the trust of business owners who need capital without red tape. And for those worried about credit blemishes or tight cash flow, their track record in bad credit equipment financing proves that your past doesn’t have to dictate your future.

For more information on how Superior Business Lending is changing the capital landscape for Chicago businesses, visit their website www.SuperiorBusinessLending.com, or connect with a funding advisor to explore options tailored to your growth goals.

 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Superior Business Lending. Always consult with a professional advisor before making any financial decisions.

Breaking Language Barriers: How PR to SKY’s Tri-Language Press Release Service Powers Global Growth

The Chicago Journal Staff on January 5, 2026

In today’s hyper-connected digital economy, a brand’s reputation is no longer confined by borders. However, it is often confined by something much more subtle: language. While English remains the “lingua franca” of business, nearly 75% of the world’s population does not speak it. For brands looking to achieve true international authority, the ability to communicate in multiple languages is the ultimate competitive advantage.

PR to SKY, a leader in high-impact media placement and digital PR, offers a specialized solution for this global challenge: the Press Release on Websites in 3 Languages (English, Spanish, and French) package. By targeting these three power-house languages, PR to SKY allows brands to tap into a combined audience of over 2 billion people.

The Strategic Power of the “Big Three”: English, Spanish, and French

Why has PR to SKY specifically curated a package featuring English, Spanish, and French? The answer lies in the massive geographic and economic footprint of these languages.

  • English: The gateway to global finance, technology, and international trade. It is essential for visibility in the US, UK, Canada, and global hubs.
  • Spanish: With over 500 million native speakers, Spanish is the key to unlocking the rapidly growing markets of Latin America and the massive Hispanic consumer base in the United States.
  • French: Beyond France, this is the language of diplomacy and a primary business language in dozens of African nations—the world’s fastest-growing economic frontier—as well as parts of Canada and Europe.

By distributing a press release in all three languages simultaneously, PR to SKY ensures that your message isn’t just “available” globally—it is locally relevant.

What the PR to SKY Package Includes

The Press Release on Websites in 3 Languages package is designed to be a “turnkey” solution for busy entrepreneurs and marketing departments. Here is a breakdown of the value provided:

1. Professional Translation & Localization

PR to SKY doesn’t just use automated tools. Their service ensures that your message is accurately translated and localized. This means preserving the tone, technical nuances, and cultural context of your announcement, which is critical for maintaining brand integrity.

2. Ensured Placement on High-Authority Sites

The package ensures that your news will be published on reputable news portals and media outlets across the English, Spanish, and French-speaking worlds. This isn’t just a “social media post”; it is a formal media placement that creates a permanent digital footprint.

3. SEO Benefits Across Continents

One of the most underrated benefits of multi-language PR is Multilingual SEO. When your brand is mentioned on high-authority French or Spanish websites, you begin to rank for keywords in those specific languages. This drives organic traffic from regions that your English-only competitors are completely missing.

Why Choose PR to SKY for Your Global Launch?

The digital PR landscape is crowded, but PR to SKY differentiates itself through transparency and reach. When you invest in this trilingual package, you are buying more than just text on a screen; you are buying Digital Trust.

  • Verified Links: After the campaign goes live, PR to SKY provides a detailed report with live links. This allows you to verify exactly where your brand is being featured.
  • Speed and Efficiency: Coordinating with three different PR agencies in three different countries would take weeks. PR to SKY streamlines this into a single order, saving brands hundreds of hours in coordination.
  • Affordability: By bundling these services, PR to SKY offers a price point that is significantly lower than hiring independent translators and media buyers for each language.

Maximizing the Impact: Who Is This For?

This service is a game-changer for several types of organizations:

  • Tech Startups: Launching an app that serves a global user base.
  • Crypto & Web3 Projects: Where community trust across different regions is vital for liquidity and adoption.
  • E-commerce Brands: Expanding their shipping zones to Europe and Latin America.
  • Public Figures: Looking to build an international profile or “Social Proof.”

Final Thoughts

In the modern era, visibility is currency. If your brand only speaks one language, you are leaving 66% of your potential market on the table. PR to SKY’s trilingual press release service is the bridge that connects your vision to the global stage.

By speaking to your audience in their mother tongue—whether they are in Paris, Mexico City, or New York—you build a level of trust that English-only brands simply cannot match. It’s time to stop being a local brand and start being a global authority.

Globally Recognized Brands Take a Strong Marketing Step with PR to SKY – Partnerships with Zycus and FIDE

The Chicago Journal Staff on January 5, 2026

In 2025, the landscape of global brand visibility and influence reached new heights. In response to this trend, PR to SKY announced its strategic partnerships with internationally recognized organizations, taking a significant step forward in global marketing. Partners such as Zycus and FIDE are leveraging these collaborations to strengthen their international presence and reach broader audiences worldwide.

PR to SKY provides tailored, strategic public relations solutions to enhance brand image and ensure global recognition. Through customized campaigns and data-driven strategies, the agency helps organizations clearly and effectively communicate their value propositions to international markets.

The collaboration with Zycus focuses on expanding global brand visibility within the corporate technology and supply chain solutions sector. PR to SKY’s strategic initiatives promotes Zycus’ products and services across international media channels, reinforcing its position as a market leader. These efforts include targeted press releases, high-impact media placements, and coordinated digital campaigns designed to deliver consistent messaging across multiple platforms.

The partnership with FIDE opens new opportunities in the sports and international organization sectors. PR to SKY supports FIDE by promoting international tournaments, events, and strategic initiatives to a global audience. This collaboration strengthens FIDE’s international reputation and increases its visibility among sports professionals, fans, sponsors, and institutional partners worldwide.

A key strength of PR in SKY’s approach lies in its goal-oriented, customized PR strategies. Each partnership is supported by a unique communication plan that considers the organization’s market position, objectives, and target audience. This ensures long-term brand credibility and sustained competitiveness in global markets.

PR to SKY’s services extends well beyond traditional press release distribution. The agency works with an extensive global media network, ensuring brands receive consistent international exposure. High-profile advertising platforms, including Times Square and the Nasdaq Tower, further amplify campaign reach, allowing brand messages to be seen by millions and echoed across international media outlets.

As a result of these strategic partnerships, organizations like Zycus and FIDE experience a significant boost in their global visibility, gaining exposure across a broader range of markets and industries. These collaborations give these organizations access to new, untapped audiences, allowing them to expand their reach and connect with potential clients and partners worldwide. In addition to enhancing their global presence, these partnerships help elevate their brand value, positioning them as trusted leaders in their respective sectors.

PR to SKY’s comprehensive support goes beyond just building brand visibility. The company also provides advanced performance monitoring and analytics tools that empower its partners to track and evaluate the success of their campaigns. By measuring key metrics such as audience engagement, brand sentiment, and conversion rates, these tools offer valuable insights into campaign performance. This data-driven approach ensures that partners can make informed decisions, refine their strategies, and ultimately maximize their return on investment. Through this level of transparency and accountability, PR to SKY ensures that each partnership yields tangible, long-term results for all involved.

The strategic partnerships between PR to SKY and globally recognized organizations set new benchmarks in international public relations and marketing. These collaborations are not just about enhancing visibility, but also about creating a lasting impact on brand reputation. They are pivotal in helping companies build credible, sustainable, and highly influential global brand identities that resonate with diverse audiences across different regions.

By leveraging its expertise and expansive media network, PR to SKY plays a crucial role in positioning organizations as leaders in their respective industries. The partnerships foster long-term relationships that go beyond short-term gains, providing organizations with the tools and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of international markets.

Through these collaborations, PR to SKY helps businesses establish a solid foundation for growth, ensuring they maintain a competitive advantage in an increasingly globalized and dynamic market. Whether through targeted media outreach, strategic messaging, or tailored campaigns, PR to SKY is committed to helping organizations achieve sustained success on the international stage.

PR to SKY: Las Vegas’s Iconic Billboard Offers Global Exposure to Brands

The Chicago Journal Staff on January 3, 2026

In the contemporary landscape of international marketing, the selection of high-visibility advertising locations serves as a definitive marker of a brand’s prestige and market position. Among the most coveted advertising assets globally is the 63LV Las Vegas CityCenter Billboard. Situated at the epicenter of the Las Vegas Strip, this digital platform offers an unparalleled opportunity for enterprises to project their identity to a diverse, affluent international audience.

Strategic Geographic Advantage and Audience Reach

The 63LV Billboard is strategically positioned at the nexus of the CityCenter complex, an architectural landmark that houses ultra-luxury establishments such as the Aria Resort, Vdara, and the Waldorf Astoria. This specific location is characterized by a unique demographic convergence. It serves as a primary corridor for high-net-worth tourists, international business delegates attending major conventions, and a massive daily influx of global consumers.

The placement ensures maximum visibility from multiple vantage points, capturing the attention of both vehicular traffic and pedestrian crowds. Unlike standard advertising spaces, a presence at CityCenter signifies that a brand has reached a global tier of competition. The high volume of impressions at this location contributes to enhanced brand visibility and the potential for increased recognition worldwide.

Technological Excellence and Campaign Duration

The 63LV platform utilizes state-of-the-art LED technology, engineered to maintain visual integrity under the intense desert sunlight of Nevada. The high-definition display ensures that corporate messaging is delivered with absolute clarity, color accuracy, and vibrancy. For a business entity, the one-month (30-day) advertising cycle provided through this platform is a calculated investment.

A thirty-day duration allows for the psychological principle of “effective frequency” to take hold. By rotating advertisements consistently over a full month, the brand ensures multiple touchpoints with its target audience. This repetition is essential for moving a consumer from mere awareness to brand recall and, ultimately, trust. In an era of fleeting digital interactions, a physical, large-scale presence in a world-renowned location provides a sense of permanence and reliability that digital-only campaigns often lack.

PR to SKY: Revolutionizing Global Media Procurement

The complexity of securing high-stakes advertising real estate in foreign markets often requires a sophisticated intermediary. PR to SKY serves as a global platform that connects brands with renowned advertising venues worldwide. The organization has streamlined global media buying, making it a seamless experience for corporate entities looking to expand their footprint.

Core Competencies and Corporate Solutions

PR to SKY distinguishes itself through a commitment to transparency, efficiency, and strategic integration. Its operational model is designed to support the modern enterprise through several key pillars:

  • Premium Asset Access: The platform provides direct access to elite advertising spots, including Las Vegas, New York’s Times Square, and major European hubs. This eliminates the bureaucratic hurdles typically associated with international outdoor advertising (OOH).
  • Integrated PR Strategies: Recognizing that physical visibility must be supported by digital authority, PR to SKYoffers comprehensive PR services. This includes the publication of corporate narratives in top-tier news outlets such as Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance, and Business Insider. This dual approach ensures that when a customer sees a brand on a billboard in Las Vegas, they also find high-authority editorial coverage of that brand online.
  • Accountability and Reporting: The platform operates on a foundation of professional accountability. From the initial booking to the final broadcast of the content, every step is managed with corporate-level precision, ensuring that the client’s investment is executed according to exact specifications.

In conclusion, the 1-month advertising slot on the 63LV Las Vegas CityCenter Billboard, facilitated by PR to SKY, represents more than a simple advertisement. It is a strategic move for any organization seeking to solidify its status on the global stage, leveraging both physical dominance and digital prestige to achieve sustainable growth.

Make an Instant Impact: Advertise at Times Square Today with PR to SKY

The Chicago Journal Staff on December 29, 2025

In the world of outdoor advertising, few locations can rival the global recognition and visual impact of Times Square in New York City. Known as the crossroads of the world, this iconic destination draws millions of visitors daily and is constantly featured in media, travel content, and social feeds. PR to SKY’s “Advertise at Times Square Today” offering gives brands a unique chance to place their message directly in this high‑visibility environment and capture the attention of local, national, and international audiences. 

A Premium Advertising Opportunity in the Heart of New York

Times Square’s colossal LED billboards are among the most recognizable advertising platforms on the planet, combining dynamic visuals with unprecedented foot traffic. PR to SKY’s Times Square ad package positions your brand where it matters most — in front of millions of pedestrians, commuters, and global viewers who watch live streams and media coverage from this bustling hub. 

The campaign package ensures that your advertisement is showcased prominently for a full day, with a minimum of 100 up to several hundred displays, depending on the exact package parameters. Each advertisement runs for a brief yet impactful 10–15 seconds, strategically repeated throughout the day to drive recall and visibility at various times and through different crowd patterns. 

Professional Documentation and Assets

One of the standout benefits of this offering is the inclusion of professional photo and video capture of your ad in Times Square. PR to SKY’s team records your commercial live as it appears on the screen and delivers these high‑quality media files on the same day. These assets become powerful tools for your own digital channels, enabling extended reach beyond the physical billboard display. 

This immediate documentation means brands can share their Times Square moment across:

  • Social media platforms
  • Corporate websites
  • Digital marketing campaigns
  • Influencer collaborations
    All of which help further amplify visibility and engagement. 

Global Press Amplification

PR to SKY’s expertise goes beyond visual placement — it also includes a professional press release crafted to highlight your Times Square advertising activity. This release is distributed to a vast network of over 100 global media outlets, including major platforms like Business Insider, Benzinga, AsiaOne, Barchart, and DigitalJournal. 

This media distribution strategy turns a powerful physical placement into a broader international narrative, positioning your brand in global editorial spaces and giving you earned media coverage that extends well beyond Times Square itself. The press release is typically published within several business days after the ad appears, ensuring continued visibility long after the campaign day concludes. 

Why Times Square Advertising Matters

Advertising in Times Square is about more than just a high‑profile placement — it’s about aligning your brand with one of the most energetic and recognizable backdrops in the world. The location attracts a mix of tourists, business travelers, locals, and global audiences tuning in online. This blend creates an incomparable environment for storytelling and brand positioning.

This type of outdoor advertising offers multiple benefits:

  • Massive Reach: Millions of impressions daily from physical and digital audiences. 
  • Cultural Prestige: Associating your brand with Times Square adds credibility and memorability. 
  • Media Coverage: Press distribution significantly expands reach beyond the billboard itself. 
  • Brand Content: Professional video and imagery help sustain the campaign online. 

Strategic Brand Activation

PR to SKY recommends that brands prepare their creative concept and campaign strategy ahead of time to ensure maximum effectiveness on the selected ad day. Early planning allows for tailored content that resonates with target audiences and integrates seamlessly with broader marketing initiatives.

Whether launching a new product, celebrating a milestone, or elevating brand presence, this approach helps create not just an advertisement but a strategic moment that can be leveraged across multiple channels.

Conclusion: Create a Timeless Brand Moment in Times Square

PR to SKY’s “Advertise at Times Square Today” package is more than an advertising placement — it’s a powerful brand activation tool. Combining high‑frequency visual exposure, professional media capture, and global press amplification, this offering gives businesses the opportunity to achieve remarkable visibility in one of the most celebrated urban locations in the world.

By turning a single day into a globally memorable event, brands can strengthen recognition, generate buzz, and leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

Lighting Up Nasdaq and Headlines: PR to SKY’s Formula for Worldwide Startup Success

The Chicago Journal Staff on December 29, 2025

2025 was a landmark year for global visibility. Over 50 fast-growing startups and established companies, including AI ventures that raised tens of millions, turned to PR to SKY to help amplify their achievements and reach audiences worldwide. These clients, ranging from tech innovators to industry disruptors, sought to strengthen their visibility and communicate their successes to a global audience. From groundbreaking product launches to milestone funding announcements, PR to SKY’s all-in-one approach to public relations helped support efforts to make an international impact and build brand presence on the world stage.

Nasdaq Tower Advertising: Making a Statement in the Heart of Times Square

For companies looking to capture attention across finance, technology, and entrepreneurial sectors, the Nasdaq Tower in Times Square offers strong visibility. PR to SKY turned this iconic platform into a complete, turnkey PR experience, aiming to help every client’s message reach the widest practical audience with meaningful impact. The process was carefully designed to provide a smoother execution from start to finish.

Seamless Campaign Execution

PR to SKY handled every aspect of the campaign. The creative content and artwork team designed high-impact visuals tailored specifically for the massive outdoor screen. Every detail from imagery to messaging was refined to resonate with both local audiences and international viewers.

Once the designs were finalized, the campaign launched, running 15-second ads an estimated 200 to 300 times per day. This frequency can help drive exposure to the millions of people who pass through Times Square, supporting both immediate visibility and longer-term brand recognition.

Real-time documentation was another important component. A professional on-site photography and video team captured every moment of the campaign, delivering clients with high-quality, shareable content on the same day when feasible, depending on scheduling, access, weather conditions, equipment needs, and venue rules, while coordinating closely with brand teams for timely approvals. This can help companies maximize the value of their Nasdaq presence across social media, press releases, and internal communications.

Following the billboard display, PR to SKY distributed press releases highlighting the Nasdaq exposure to a global media network. The strategic approach was designed to help the spend starting at $17,500 lead to international media coverage and recognition.

Global Media Distribution: Turning Local Exposure into Worldwide Recognition

PR to SKY didn’t stop at the billboard. Its global release distribution network was positioned to help each campaign reach more than 500 media outlets worldwide, including influential platforms such as Business Insider and Digital Journal.

By carefully distributing content internationally, PR to SKY amplified each client’s story, which can help enhance credibility and support SEO visibility, while encouraging broader media pickup, sustained audience interest, and diversified geographic reach. Campaigns were not just seen in New York; they may also resonate across continents, helping establish clients as recognized leaders in their respective industries.

The PR to SKY Advantage: Full Service, Maximum Impact

The agency’s signature advantage lies in its full-service approach. From creating high-quality artwork to managing billboard campaigns, documenting events, and securing worldwide press coverage, PR to SKY offers end-to-end support, helping teams stay aligned, meet timelines, and maintain consistent messaging.

For companies considering Nasdaq advertising or pursuing global recognition, this approach provides a clear, transparent, and practical roadmap for success.

In 2025 alone, over 50 companies leveraged PR to SKY’s expertise, combining the unparalleled visibility of Times Square with strategic global media amplification. This approach can help position clients for growth, potential opportunities, and longer-term international recognition.

PR to SKY demonstrated that when strategic storytelling meets iconic visibility, success can become global, providing startups and established companies alike with the tools to turn local achievements into worldwide milestones, fostering innovation, growth, and long-lasting impact across industries.

PR to SKY Expands Advertising on Times Square and Nasdaq, Boosting Global Brand Visibility

The Chicago Journal Staff on December 29, 2025

In 2025, global visibility and prestige have become increasingly important in PR and advertising. In line with this trend, PR to SKY announced the expansion of its advertising opportunities on Times Square and Nasdaq Tower monitors. This strategic move is designed to increase access to global audiences, accelerate brand recognition, and establish credible visibility on prestigious platforms.

Being featured on iconic advertising locations such as Times Square and the Nasdaq Tower offers brands significant prestige and attention. These platforms are highly trafficked, reaching millions of people daily, and are widely observed both in person and online. The new opportunities PR provides to SKY enable brands to gain recognition not only in national markets but also on an international scale. This is especially advantageous for globally operating startups, technology companies, and financial firms.

PR to SKY combines these advertising opportunities with a personalized approach. Each campaign is tailored to the client’s objectives, highlighting the brand’s uniqueness and maximizing message effectiveness. The agency ensures that campaigns are visually engaging while maintaining clear, targeted messaging. This approach helps brands establish a deeper connection with their audience, remain memorable, and capture attention effectively.

The significance of Times Square and Nasdaq Tower advertisements extends beyond mere physical presence. These locations are frequently highlighted in global media, generating a ripple effect across international news outlets and social media platforms. Consequently, every advertisement not only appears on the monitors but also contributes to a brand story that resonates worldwide.

PR to SKY also utilizes advanced technologies to track and measure the effectiveness of campaigns. This enables clients to evaluate campaign impact and plan future strategic steps. Each placement strengthens the brand image and maximizes return on investment, ensuring campaigns deliver measurable results.

Expanding these advertising opportunities provides global brands with a competitive edge in the market. PR for SKY’s services enables companies to achieve international recognition, enhance their prestige, and build a sustainable, credible image. Particularly for innovative and technology-driven companies, appearing in Times Square and on the Nasdaq Tower provides an invaluable platform to gain global visibility and connect with potential investors.

The client-focused PR strategy for SKY ensures that every campaign is individually planned. Visual design, messaging, and placement strategies are tailored to the brand’s specific needs. This approach allows brands to maintain a unique market position while accelerating recognition among global audiences.

PR to SKY’s expansion of advertising opportunities on Times Square and Nasdaq Tower represents a strategic opportunity for global brands. Visibility on prestigious platforms increases brand recognition, fosters connections with international audiences, and helps establish a long-term, credible image. These new opportunities solidify PR to SKY’s position as a leading partner in global PR and advertising, significantly contributing to the international success of its clients.

PR to SKY’s latest growth also signals a broader shift in how brands are approaching high-impact visibility: not as a one-off splash, but as part of a cohesive, multi-channel narrative. With placements that can be paired with broader media outreach, digital amplification, and coordinated campaign timing, brands can turn a landmark moment into sustained momentum. By aligning messaging, creative, and rollout strategy around these premium displays, PR to SKY helps clients translate marquee exposure into consistent awareness and stronger market presence across regions, while supporting campaign measurement, audience targeting, and creative refreshes that keep messaging timely, relevant, and aligned with evolving business goals.

Through these expanded advertising offerings, brands not only gain visibility but also build a strong, credible presence in the global market. This initiative reflects PR to SKY’s strategic vision, setting new standards in the international PR and marketing landscape while providing clients with a competitive advantage.

Billow Time Watch Co., Ltd. and the Normalization of Customized Watch Manufacturing Within OEM Production

The Chicago Journal Staff on December 29, 2025

Over the past two decades, customization has shifted from a niche service to a standard expectation in many manufacturing sectors. In the global watch industry, this change has been driven by the rise of independent brands, online retail, and smaller production runs. This broader shift created conditions where customization became routine rather than exceptional.

Within this context, Billow Time Watch Co., Ltd. developed manufacturing systems that supported repeated customization requests across multiple product lines. Established in 2004 in Shenzhen by Chen Fu Jun and Wang Jian, the company entered the market during a period when many OEM factories focused on standardized quartz models. Early production followed conventional formats, but client requests gradually expanded beyond fixed designs, requiring greater flexibility in both tooling and workflow.

According to the company, by the late 2000s, many customization requests focused on case dimensions, lug profiles, and surface finishing. Clients sought visual distinction while maintaining cost control, a common challenge in mid-volume manufacturing. To accommodate this, the company adapted CNC machining processes to enable small-batch adjustments without disrupting production schedules. This shift aligned with the wider industry adoption of programmable machining, reducing setup time for design variations.

Material customization also became a recurring feature of production. As market interest in alternatives to stainless steel grew, clients began requesting titanium, bronze, and ceramic cases. Industry data from 2012 indicates that titanium watch production grew by approximately 8 percent annually during that period, driven by demand for lighter materials. Billow Time Watch Co., Ltd. responded by integrating material-specific machining and finishing protocols into its existing manufacturing system rather than treating such requests as one-off projects.

Component-level modification further expanded the scope of customization. Clients frequently requested changes to bezels, crowns, case backs, and dial layouts. These adjustments required coordination across design, machining, and assembly departments. At Billow Time Watch Co., Ltd., such coordination became standardized through internal documentation and approval processes. This structure allowed repeated execution of modified designs while maintaining consistent inspection criteria across different client orders.

Movement selection represented another area where customization became routine. While early production focused primarily on quartz movements, growing demand for mechanical options led clients to request a wider range of calibers. Industry surveys from the mid-2010s show that mechanical watches accounted for roughly 35 percent of global watch exports by value. In response, the company incorporated mechanical assembly and testing procedures alongside existing quartz workflows, supporting mixed production without segregating operations.

Customization also extended to finishing techniques. Clients requested variations in brushing, polishing, bead blasting, and coating. Rather than limiting these finishes to premium orders, Billow Time Watch Co., Ltd. integrated them into standard production planning. This approach reflected a broader OEM trend in which finish variation became part of the baseline capability rather than an added service tier. As a result, modified finishing was treated as a regular specification parameter.

The normalization of customization also influenced quality control practices. Modified components required verification against client specifications rather than fixed templates. At Billow Time Watch factory, inspection procedures were adapted to accommodate variable dimensions and materials. Quality checks focused on compliance with documented requirements rather than comparative assessment against standard models, reflecting a process-driven approach rather than product hierarchy.

From an operational standpoint, customization did not replace standardized production but existed alongside it. Some clients continued to request conventional designs, while others pursued extensive modification. The company’s manufacturing system was structured to manage both scenarios simultaneously. This balance mirrors broader OEM strategies that prioritize flexibility to maintain diverse client relationships.

By the time the company was formally incorporated as Billow Time Watch Co., Ltd. in 2019, customized and modified watch manufacturing had become an embedded part of daily operations. The ability to adapt case shapes, materials, and components was no longer treated as an exception but as a recurring production pattern shaped by client demand. Under the continued management of Chen Fu Jun and Wang Jian, the company maintained its role as an OEM manufacturer while integrating customization as a standard operational function rather than a defining brand feature.

How the Chicago UPS Store Owner, Jessica Lee’s Immigrant Journey, Inspired A Chicago Nonprofit

The Chicago Journal Staff on December 27, 2025

Jessica Lee’s story is only one of many that are told and retold across Chicago’s immigrant communities. But her path from newcomer to successful entrepreneur is particularly notable given her drive and determination, and how it led to the founding of a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping others build brighter futures.

A first-generation immigrant who is also deaf, Jessica is currently the owner of two UPS stores in Chicago. Throughout her path to success, she has always invested in people seeking opportunities for a more secure and stable future. This commitment helped establish Pursue the Dream, a program that aims to support individuals in achieving financial confidence, housing security, and personal advancement.

The nonprofit reflects Jessica’s fundamental belief that no disability or disadvantage should prevent someone from pursuing their dreams. The journey may require more effort and time, but the possibilities can be boundless.

Overcoming Early Challenges

As a deaf first-generation immigrant, Jessica had to overcome significant challenges from the very beginning, navigating a new country without the ability to hear. Although gifted with creativity and resilience, she knew that education was the key to forward progress. She therefore committed herself to studying biochemistry, business law, and accounting at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and DePaul University, where she later earned an MBA and CPA certification.

Even as she pursued her education, Jessica launched several restaurants and nightclubs while still in her twenties. These endeavors demonstrated her ability to transform creative ideas into successful businesses and gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship. Even so, they were merely steps on her path to larger and potentially more significant pursuits that would help shape her future goals.

Expanding Into Entrepreneurship

Jessica later became a business consultant and enterprise solutions architect. Over a decade in these roles, she helped streamline operations for many smaller companies and assisted Fortune 1000 firms in designing stronger IT systems. This combined corporate and entrepreneurial experience shaped her understanding of what growing businesses and working families need.

To be sure, the road to success held additional challenges. Apart from the struggle of fitting in society, Jessica also has a hearing impairment and is a single mother of two. Even so, she has never allowed these factors to limit her potential. In fact, what others might see as obstacles often served to fuel her drive and passion.

Enduring Commitment to Service

Perhaps one of the most notable aspects of Jessica’s immigrant journey is her commitment to serving the community. She has consistently demonstrated this advocacy by hiring individuals from the LGBTQ+ community, supporting second-chance workers, and assisting small businesses with day-to-day operational needs.

Through it all, Jessica remains focused on providing others with meaningful opportunities that lead to tangible results. Through her efforts, she helps build confidence in people who might otherwise be neglected or overlooked.

Jessica has since extended her influence into local advocacy. Today, she actively supports organizations such as St Jude Hospital, Cabrini Green Legal Aid, and the Women’s Business Development Center. She also champions resources that strengthen neighborhoods and support economic growth through her involvement with the Edgewater and Rogers Park Chambers of Commerce.

Pursue the Dream is the culmination of Jessica Lee’s desire to break down barriers she once faced. In the face of financial, communication, and housing challenges, immigrants can turn to the nonprofit for guidance in overcoming those challenges and realizing achievable goals.

By sharing her own story of succeeding despite being deaf, Jessica hopes to inspire others to recognize that disabilities and disadvantages need not limit their aspirations.
To support Pursue the Dream’s mission of empowering Chicago’s underserved communities, visit www.pursuethedreamnfp.org.

Sherri Little Foundation Awards 10 Grants for Chronic Pain

The Chicago Journal Staff on December 26, 2025

This is not just another nonprofit story. It is a story about a woman whose pain was ignored, whose access to care was blocked, and whose final wish was that no one else would have to suffer the way she did quietly, invisibly, and alone.

Her name was Sherri Little.

When Sherri and Tami Stackelhouse first met, Stackelhouse was already known for her work helping people living with chronic pain reclaim their lives. An award-winning author and founder of the International Fibromyalgia Coaching Institute (IFCI)—the world’s only coaching institute dedicated exclusively to fibromyalgia—she was once disabled by chronic illness before developing a recovery framework now used worldwide.

Before the Sherri Little Foundation ever existed, Sherri was one of her clients.

Living with relentless pain, Sherri began working with Stackelhouse in the final months of her life. For two months before her passing, they spoke often not only about Sherri’s health, but also her desire to change the way people in pain are treated.

Sherri Little Foundation Awards 10 Grants for Chronic Pain

Photography Courtesy: Tami Stackelhouse / Lynda Mannion

Stackelhouse shared, “I had the privilege of working with Sherri during the two months prior to her passing. From the very beginning, she was clear about one thing: she wanted her story told, even if she wasn’t here to tell it herself.”

A Voice That Refused to Be Silenced

Sherri believed deeply in the power of storytelling. During that time, she traveled to Toronto to be interviewed for Pain Warriors, a documentary created by Give Pain a Voice, so others could understand what life with chronic pain truly looks like.

Behind the scenes, though, Sherri was fighting battles most people never saw.

While working together, Sherri and Stackelhouse tried desperately to find medical care for a serious illness that left Sherri unable to eat normally, severely dehydrated, and physically weakened. Despite countless calls to doctors across the country, and even offering to pay out of pocket, Sherri was repeatedly turned away because she did not have the “right” insurance.

The barrier was access, not answers.

Although her insurance was eventually changed, it came too late to make a meaningful difference. The last message Stackelhouse ever received from Sherri was a voicemail saying she was heading to the emergency room due to dehydration.

Sherri passed away just days later.

Stackelhouse explains, “There are many unanswered questions surrounding Sherri’s death. But for me, there is no question about why she died. Her pain and illness were not treated properly. The system failed her.”

What troubles Stackelhouse most is how easily stories like Sherri’s are misunderstood. They are often reduced to statistics that miss the deeper issue of access, support, and compassion.

Stackelhouse reflects, “I feel incredibly fortunate to have known the vibrant, passionate, deeply caring woman behind Sherri’s pain.”

A Dream Born from Hard Truth

Sherri often spoke about how isolating life with chronic pain can be. How everyday tasks became overwhelming, and independence slowly slipped away. And yet, even then, she dreamed of helping others.

Stackelhouse adds, “Sherri wanted to create a foundation that would support people living with chronic pain in practical, meaningful ways. Not someday, but now.”

In March 2017, after Sherri’s passing, Stackelhouse honored Sheri’s wishes and formed the Sherri Little Foundation (SLF). Built around that vision, the foundation provides micro-grants of $1,000 or less to people living with chronic pain who lack financial and social support.

Not red tape.
Just help when it’s needed most.

When Sherri died, she had unused coaching sessions she had already paid for. Stackelhouse used those sessions to establish the Sherri Little Fibromyalgia Coaching Scholarship, giving qualified patients access to a Certified Fibromyalgia Coach®, the kind of support Sherri wanted for people living with pain. Graduates of the International Fibromyalgia Coaching Institute continue to donate their time and resources to sustain the scholarship.

Micro-Grants That Change Real Lives

In its most recent grant cycle, the Sherri Little Foundation awarded $10,000 to 10 individuals, each receiving $1,000.

These grants were used for needs often excluded by insurance, including:

  • Integrative and alternative therapies
  • Advanced pain treatments
  • Medical massage and manual therapies
  • Mobility tools 
  • Service dog training
  • Accessibility aids that reduce strain and fatigue

One recipient used her grant to pursue a treatment that provided months of relief, allowing her to work more effectively, enjoy longer walks, and participate more fully in her relationships. Another applied funds toward mobility support so she could attend her grandchildren’s activities and return to creative passions she thought she’d lost.

Stackelhouse stressed, “Chronic pain shrinks people’s worlds. Our goal is to help widen those worlds again.”

Not Charity, but Possibility

What these grants buy is possibility. The chance to leave the house, try a recommended therapy, and experience hope when it often feels out of reach. For many recipients, it’s the difference between being confined by pain and participating in their own lives again.

Recipients remain anonymous unless they choose otherwise, preserving dignity and centering real, human impact.

Stackelhouse explains, “This isn’t charity. It’s empowerment. The kind Sherri believed people in pain deserve.”

Carrying Sherri’s Dream Forward

The foundation’s vision is simple and radical in its compassion: to offer these grants every year, for as long as people in pain continue to fall through the cracks of the healthcare system. Each grant is a deliberate act of resistance against a system that too often measures care by coverage instead of need.

Stackelhouse adds, “We can’t fix the entire healthcare system. But we can make life better for real people right now, easing suffering, restoring dignity, and giving someone the support they need to keep going. And that is exactly what Sherri wanted.”

With every grant awarded, Sherri’s voice carries forward, not as a statistic or a cautionary tale, but as a living legacy of compassion, advocacy, and action.

How to Support Sherri’s Mission

While the current grant cycle is closed, community members can: 

Register to be notified when the next application window opens:
https://sherrilittlefoundation.org/register

Donate to support future grants:
https://sherrilittlefoundation.org/donate

Learn more about Sherri’s story and the foundation’s mission:
https://sherrilittlefoundation.org/about