Nicole Zerillo

With the economic crisis in full force, the Mohegan Sun Casino and Hotel created a back-to-basics PR campaign promoting its value-based offerings.

NEW YORK: Nespresso's North American business "grew extremely quickly" in 2008, and is projected to experience growth in 2009 as consumers seek out high quality coffee products, according to Frederic Levy, president of Nespresso USA.

CHICAGO: The Museum of Science and Industry recently hired Rob Gallas as CMO and VP of marketing and PR.

FRAMINGHAM, MA: Staples Inc, the office products company, again tapped Tilson Communications to assist with its 2009 back-to-school campaign, after the agency successfully handled the 2008 program.

OAK BROOK, IL: McDonald's is undertaking its largest marketing initiative in more than 30 years to nationally launch its McCafé coffee line today. It includes brand cappuccinos, lattes, and mochas.

AUBURN HILLS, MI: Corporate and financial communications firm Kekst and Co. is aiding Chrysler as a "consultant" as the automaker goes through its restructuring, according to Katie Hepler, manager of corporate communications for Chrysler.

OMAHA, NE: ConAgra Foods recently hired Brett Groom for the newly created role of VP of media, digital, and social marketing for the company's consumer foods brands, including Orville Redenbacher's, Healthy Choice, and Reddi-wip.

Behind the wheel of a 1958 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham, Motorpool.com president Morgan Murphy is going on a cross-country road trip to promote the launch of his new social networking site for enthusiasts of classic and collector cars.

DETROIT: Effective May 1, General Motors (GM) will officially let go of a "significant number" of staffers in the global communications department alongside other company reductions, according to Steve Harris, GM's VP of global communications.

REEDLEY, CA: Wellspring, the weight loss organization geared to youths, tapped 5W Public Relations as AOR.