Sandy Hillman Communications, a public relations agency based in Towson, launched a new service where clients seeking limited help on a tight deadline could pay hourly rates for such tasks as writing and distributing news releases, e-mail blasts and media alerts. The firm said it has received repeated requests for short-term assistance from smaller companies and nonprofits during the past year. The new service, called prXpress, guarantees that the work will be done within 48 hours of the request. The firm's clients include Gaylord Hotels, Harrah's Entertainment, the Singapore Tourism Board and the National World War II Museum.

- Gus G. Sentementes