by Tyler Loechner
BlockBeacon, a communication platform that enables "hyper-local worlds of real-time commerce," has released an iPhone app that allows local business owners to post live promotions and content directly onto the BlockBeacon map. The map is easily accessible via the app by users looking for places to eat, drink, shop, and play and opens line of communication between businesses and consumers in real-time. Read the whole story »
by Steve McClellan
Interpublic Group has launched a new sports marketing agency called Advantage International and has hired 20-year industry veteran Tom Haidinger to run it as president. Read the whole story »
by Tyler Loechner
The University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism yesterday released a study that confirmed that "listeners feel they have a genuine relationship with their favorite radio personalities." The study was underwritten by Katz Radio Group and provides numerous valuable insights into radio station advertising sales. The release said that demographics of the 617 survey respondents "closely aligned with the composition of the Los Angeles population." Read the whole story »
by Ibet Inyang
Scan Code Saver, an Orange County-based advertising and marketing agency, Tuesday launched a mobile marketing business opportunity utilizing QR codes. Businesses can join a local network and advertise their specific QR codes within the network. Local users on-the-go can then scan the QR codes and instantly see offers and deals on their mobile phone. Read the whole story »
AROUND THE NET
Now that Rupert Murdoch has decided to split News Corps. operations, the Wall Street Journal reports that the Los Angeles Times could be on his purchase radar. In additon to staying in control as chariman of both businesses and CEO of the entertainment business, the Journal says, "Mr. Murdoch has long eyed titles such as the Los Angeles Times." Read the whole story »

SLU Billiken Angels Invest In YourEvent.com St. Louis Business Journal
YourEvent.com, a web-based service that turns event photography into social media marketing solutions for venues and events and based in Los Angeles, has received an investment from SLU's Billiken Angels Network. YourEvent.com plans to launch in July and is just the second company the Angels Network has invested in since 2008. Read the whole story »