Zoe Weisberg Coady
Zoe Weisberg Coady

Brandstyle Communications has launched a full-service blockchain division. The division is designed to provide businesses with strategy and expertise in such areas as earned media relations, company messaging, content creation, crisis communications, speaking opportunities, thought leadership, sponsorships and partnerships. The division has signed up TokynX LLC, which aims to become the world’s first regulated security token exchange, as a client. “There is a considerable lack of transparency in this space,” said Brandstyle Communications CEO and founder Zoe Weisberg Coady. “Our goal is to help these dynamic companies stay fiercely competitive through authentic and strategic communication.”

Michelle Mekky
Michelle Mekky

Mekky Media Relations, which set up shop in Chicago two years ago, is moving into offices in the the city’s Wrigley Building, sharing space with strategic partner and Mekky Media client TimeZoneOne. The agency, which was recently invited to join the Forbes Agency Council, is preparing to launch a Media Training and Public Speaking Division, which will offer workshops and training to an international client base. Mekky Media has also added several restaurant clients that include FARE Chicago, The Gringo, Untitled Supper Club and Vinny’s Pizza Bar. It recently led PR efforts for the CPD Finest vs. CFD Bravest Charity Baseball Game, which took place July 18 at Guaranteed Rate Field, in support of the Gold Badge Society and Chicago Police Memorial Foundation.

Rural Spirit Awards

O+B | P, a St. Louis-based firm that serves the agriculture and rural industry, has launched the Rural Spirit Awards, a program that will honor individuals who serve rural communities across the U.S. “The Rural Spirit Awards are really among the first of their kind and honor one of Rural America’s greatest traits––its passion to help,” said O+B | P president Rhonda Ries. Three award winners will be chosen in the areas of economic development, community service and next gen. Winners will have a chance for O+B | P to distribute their story across various digital and traditional media platforms. Nominations for winners will be accepted through October 31, 2018 and can be made by the public at ruralspiritawards.com.