A new case of diabetes strikes every 20 seconds. With nearly 24 million Americans of all ages affected by the disease and an additional 57 million at risk for diabetes, diabetes has reached epidemic proportions.(1) If current trends continue, one out of three children will live with diabetes sometime in their future.(1)

Type 1 diabetes, which occurs when the immune system mistakenly destroys cells that make insulin, is juvenile-onset diabetes; while type 2 diabetes has an adult-onset and can often be prevented. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90 percent of cases.(1) According to the American Diabetes Association, those living with diabetes can lower the occurrence of health complications and those at high risk for developing diabetes can take proactive measures to both live healthfully and prevent a diabetes diagnosis by following a healthy meal plan and regular exercise program.

"The key to healthy eating is moderation and making smart choices in your daily diet," said Mike Cecil who develops better-for-you products for Wells' Dairy, Inc., the largest family owned and operated dairy processor in the country. "By substituting low-sugar, low-carbohydrate versions of the snacks you eat, those living with and prone to diabetes are still able to eat their favorite foods while maintaining a healthy diet."

Cecil spends much of his time researching healthier ingredients that will make products better without sacrificing taste. Snacking can be part of a healthy diet and has been shown to actually help prevent overeating at meals and provide a constant source of energy for the body.(1) According to Cecil, people do not have to give up their favorite treats, instead just find a better option that will help them achieve their health goals.

"By choosing snacks with little or no added sugar, you can enjoy even your favorite treat - ice cream - and maintain a healthy, balanced diet by limiting excess sugar intake," said Cecil. The Blue Bunny Sweet Freedom line, for example, offers treats like the Black Raspberry Bar and Krunch Lite Bar made with no sugar added reduced fat ice cream. Choosing a Sweet Freedom snack or a no sugar added reduced fat ice cream like Blue Bunny No Sugar Added Reduced Fat Banana Split Ice Cream will help keep calories and carbohydrates low, which is essential to preventing and living healthfully with diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association offers these tips on ways to incorporate treats into a healthy diet for those living with and prone to diabetes:

  • Limit portion size and frequency - You don't have to cut out the foods you love to eat, just cut down portion size and treat yourself to these foods on special occasions.
  • Plan ahead - People living with diabetes can include desserts in their meal plans, just plan ahead and make other meal adjustments to compensate for the dessert, like cutting back on other foods with carbohydrates at the same meal. For many people, about 45 to 60 grams of carbohydrates at meals is a good target.(1) The key to keeping your blood glucose levels on target is to substitute small portions of sweets for other carb-containing foods in your meals and snacks.
  • Read the label - Foods labeled as sugar-free, no sugar added and reduced sugar may still contain carbohydrates. Sugar is only one type of carbohydrate that affects blood glucose levels, so when reading the nutrition facts on a product, read the total carbohydrate content in addition to the sugar content and serving size. Keep in mind that the total carbohydrate includes both added sugars and naturally occurring sugars, as well as starch and fiber.

(1) American Diabetes Association

CONTACT: Kaylan Viveros, +1-816-842-1500, kviveros@barkleyus.com, for Wells' Dairy, Inc.

SOURCE Wells' Dairy, Inc.

A group of University of Texas at Austin alumni are returning to the place of their alma mater next month and bringing their popular frozen yogurt brand OrangeCup with them for the Grand Opening of their seventh Texas store.

The newest OrangeCup will debut Friday, Nov. 13, at The Domain, located in Austin's northwest corridor, near the IBM campus. The Grand Opening activities will feature live music and free Cup Cards, good for one free light cup, to all guests.

"We opened our first store in Dallas last year and have since experienced huge success and a loyal following in the Dallas and San Antonio frozen yogurt market," said Kevin Lee, CEO of OrangeCup. "Coming to Austin, home of our alma mater, is something we have been looking forward to. It will be an exciting weekend."

The International Council of Shopping Centers rewarded OrangeCup the 2009 "Hot Retailer" Award for their potential to become a lifestyle brand, as well as for their "Orange is Green" program -- a promise to be environmentally sound and eco-friendly in every aspect of their operation.

The team behind OrangeCup -- a group of UT graduates led by Lee -- shared a passion for engineering great brands, as well as a desire to create the "lifestyle brand." This passion, integrated with an honest-to-goodness product and an eco-friendly retail environment, resulted in the popular Texas brand.

OrangeCup's natural frozen yogurt comes in four flavors -- all are fat-free, low in sugar and high in vitamins and nutrients. A selection of healthy extras including an array of organic nuts, granola and fresh fruit are available to add to any cup, and a personalized nutrition label is printed for every order.

OrangeCup has been awarded the National Yogurt Association's "Live and Active Culture" seal certifying that it meets the criteria for pro-biotic benefits to the body. Live and active cultures help to replenish and maintain good bacteria in the intestines, supporting the digestive system and helping it function at its best.

OrangeCup currently has six locations in Texas, and recently opened their first international store in Monterrey, Mexico. Additional locations are under construction at North Star Mall and Alamo Quarry Market in San Antonio, as well as Deerbrook Mall in Houston, with plans for 20 new stores in Texas, Ariz. and Fla. for 2010.

About OrangeCup

OrangeCup was launched in April 2008 complete with a superior retail experience and a refreshing product line of all natural fat-free frozen yogurt. The Dallas-based company is committed to supporting a Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability by creating an eco-friendly and unique lifestyle experience in serving delectable yet nutritious products born from simple, natural ingredients and a promise to run on two core values -- revitalizing everyday life(TM) and orange is green(TM). For more information, visit www.myorangecup.com.

SOURCE OrangeCup

Golden County Foods, Inc., known for its SNAPPS frozen appetizer line, says avenues such as the dollar, military, co-pack and foodservice channels increased the company's growth by 14 percent as new customers find that the value to quality equation that works at superstore and grocery shelves can work for them as well.

Founded in 1991, Wisconsin-based Golden County Foods is the worldwide leader in filled potato skins and also offers an array of chef-inspired frozen foods that include battered and breaded snacks, savory dips and an assortment of other snacks, hors d'oeuvres and side dish offerings. New ownership and management continue the uncompromising focus on high food quality and dependable customer service.

"We invested in this business after seeing the quality of the assets, the team and the R & D track record and identifying untapped potential in all channels," said Terry O'Brien, Chairman of Golden County Foods. "Since then, we have doubled the size of our largest facility to allow Golden County Foods to compete with the industry's top performers. We also listened carefully to our customers to ensure we maintained the strong focus on customer service and high quality they've come to expect from Golden County Foods."

To equip the company for new levels of growth and innovation, veteran executives from companies such as Frito-Lay, Con Agra, Dean Foods, Rich Products Corporation, McCain Foods, Anchor Foods and Dairy Farmers of America were hired to complement the already strong leadership team. Golden County Foods CEO Ray Booth, a 25 year veteran of the frozen foods industry, married a disciplined innovation process targeting big ideas with proactive supply chain planning to allow the business to take on three times more projects than ever before.

Together, the new team enabled Golden County Foods to score in the industry's top ten percent in the 2008 Cook & Thurber Independent food safety audit, with 96.8 and 96.5. To maintain its stringent food safety standards, the company houses a U.S.D.A. inspector's office on-site and undergoes regular audits by customer representatives and inspectors. Each Golden County employee is trained to apply the principals of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) to further ensure the strictest safety standards of all products produced in the company's facilities.

About Golden County Foods, Inc.

Since its inception in 1991, Plover, Wis.-based Golden County Foods, Inc. is committed to delivering value to its customers, developing quality business relationships and fostering a positive environment for its workforce. A worldwide leader in filled potato skins, Golden County Foods is a leader in innovation and preparation of potatoes, vegetable, meat, cheese and other foods for retail, food service industries and private label. The company's accounts include some of the largest and most sophisticated food companies and brand names in North America and Europe. For more information visit www.goldencountyfoods.com.

About Wholesome Holdings Group, LLC

Since 2006, Wholesome Holdings Group, LLC together with partner Brazos Private Equity Partners has been one of the most active middle market acquirers in the food sector. Founded by veteran CEO Terry O'Brien, the Wholesome Holdings Group family of companies includes Sadler's Smokehouse, Golden County Foods, Impact Confections and Melster Candies. Mr. O'Brien serves as Chairman of Impact Confections, Inc., Sadler's Smokehouse, Ltd and Golden County Foods, Inc. For more information visit www.wholesomeholdings.com.

About Brazos Private Equity Partners, LLC

Brazos Private Equity Partners, LLC, is a Dallas-based private investment firm that specializes in leveraged acquisitions and recapitalizations of established, profitable companies with strong and proven management teams, predictable cash flows and significant growth potential. Brazos partners with management teams to invest in consumer, distribution, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing and media businesses. Since inception, Brazos has completed more than forty acquisitions representing in excess of $1.5 billion in value. For additional information about Brazos, please visit the firm's website at www.brazosinv.com.

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

    Media Contacts:
    Rebecca Bowers or Lauren Jones-McClain
    (214) 379-7000
    rebecca@spmcommunications.com
    lauren@spmcommunications.com

SOURCE Golden County Foods

Today, the Board of Directors for Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) declared a quarterly dividend of $0.11 per share on the common stock of the company.

The dividend will be paid on December 16, 2009 to shareholders of record as of December 3, 2009.

At the end of the first quarter fiscal year 2010, Brinker International either owned, operated, or franchised 1,699 restaurants under the names Chili's® Grill & Bar (1,493 restaurants), On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina® (162 restaurants) and Maggiano's Little Italy® (44 restaurants). Brinker also holds a minority investment in Romano's Macaroni Grill®.

The statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and, consequently, could be affected by general business and economic conditions, the impact of competition, the impact of acquisitions and divestitures and other strategic transactions, the seasonality of the company's business, adverse weather conditions, future commodity prices, fuel and utility costs and availability, terrorists acts, consumer perception of food safety, changes in consumer taste and behavior, health epidemics or pandemics, changes in demographic trends, availability of employees, unfavorable publicity, the company's ability to meet its growth plan, acts of God, governmental regulations, and inflation.

SOURCE Brinker International, Inc.

Health Communications, Inc. (HCI) today announced that eTIPS, an online training and certification program for servers and sellers of alcohol, was approved by the District of Columbia's Alcohol Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA). The District of Columbia's liquor code requires all managers of a licensed establishment to be certified in an alcohol training and education program that is conducted by a Board-approved provider. The addition of eTIPS will greatly expand the training options available for managers in the District of Columbia. Immediate benefits include tools to reduce underage drinking, intoxication, and drunk driving, as well as new flexibility in extending such benefits to establishments large and small.

The eTIPS course is customized for both On- and Off-Premise establishments. The training addresses concerns specific to convenience, grocery, and liquor stores as well as restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, and other on-premise liquor license holders. In addition, the course is tailored to deliver information on regulations unique to the District of Columbia. eTIPS participants are able to assess the needs of their clients from both the legal and alcohol-related standpoint after viewing thought-provoking video clips. The final section of the course challenges participants by forcing them to apply intervention strategies learned from previous exercises. Participants take a certification examination at the conclusion of the course.

The eTIPS course is a self-paced, innovative approach to alcohol training. It allows participants to obtain practical and valuable training anywhere and at any time. Most importantly, this new tool will provide District of Columbia businesses with reduced exposure to alcohol liability lawsuits, lower insurance rates, and improved customer satisfaction. By means of video streaming and top-shelf technology, the eTIPS user participates in a lively and interactive experience.

The course, introduced to alcohol servers in 2005, has also exceeded expectations for eLearning in general. eTIPS can be used on a wide range of computers, and HCI is able to control the experience for students and address problems directly. "I was concerned that we would lose the human element with an eLearning course, but eTIPS makes servers and sellers assess and evaluate alcohol-related situations they face every day. I was very pleased with the level of interactivity," remarked Adam Chafetz, President and CEO of Health Communications.

Health Communications, Inc. is the provider of the country's leading alcohol server training program. Over the last 25 years HCI has certified 45,000 trainers and more than three million servers, sellers, and consumers worldwide with the TIPS program. TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) is a classroom-based training program that gives servers, sellers, and consumers of alcohol the knowledge and confidence they need to recognize potential alcohol-related problems and teach them to effectively intervene to prevent alcohol-related tragedies. With the addition of eTIPS, that quality training is now available both in the classroom and via the web. To learn more, visit the website: http://www.gettips.com.

    Contact:

    Trevor Estelle
    703-524-1200 ext. 357
    estellet@gettips.com

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE Health Communications, Inc.

PureCircle (LSE: PURE), the world's leading producer of natural high-intensity sweeteners, including Reb A, is pleased to announce the launch of Revive Supplement Water(TM) in New Zealand by Frucor. It is the country's first low-calorie vitamin-enhanced beverage to feature a pure stevia all-natural sweetener. The Revive Supplement Water is sweetened naturally by PureCircle's high-purity Reb A.

PureCircle VP Sales Asia Pacific, Chris Hession, said: "Revive is the latest extension to the Supplement Water range from Frucor Beverages in New Zealand. We are delighted to be associated with Frucor in this important launch for the category, which further underlines the growing support for stevia by major food and beverage manufacturers in Asia Pacific."

About PureCircle

PureCircle is a pioneer in the extraction of natural goodness from plants and the world's leading producer of high-purity Rebaudioside A (Reb A), with a vertically integrated supply chain operating in three continents. PureCircle markets a range of natural, high-intensity sweeteners internationally. Activities range from sourcing of dry stevia leaves and extraction, refining of crude extracts into sweeteners and marketing of these sweeteners to food and beverage manufacturers worldwide. PureCircle is listed on the London Stock Exchange AIM market with the ticker symbol: LSE.PURE. For more information, visit www.purecircle.com.

SOURCE PureCircle

Customers will find that donating $1, $3 or $5 at their local Stop & Shop check-out will net great rewards for more than 300 local hunger relief organizations as Stop & Shop's 20(th) annual Food for Friends program kicks-off in all stores on Oct. 30. The program is an easy and affordable way for customers to support local organizations and families in need of assistance this holiday season.

Through in-store donations and a corporate matching program, Stop & Shop hopes to raise more than $1 million with 100 percent of the dollars collected going to local and regional food banks. In addition, the company will match the first $500 raised by each store. Food for Friends will run through Dec. 3, 2009.

"Providing food to those in need is a cause that directly impacts the communities in which we operate," said Faith Weiner, senior director of public affairs for Stop & Shop. "Food for Friends is just one of the programs Stop & Shop provides to customers looking for creative and inexpensive ways to give back this holiday season."

A 2008 Greater Boston Food Bank Needs Assessment Survey confirmed that food banks continue to struggle to keep up with increased client loads and fewer donations. Forty-seven percent reported they had run out of food as a direct result of the growing demand and 90 percent confirmed an increase in the demand for food since 2007. Nearly 53 percent reported a decrease in donations.

In addition to in-store donations Stop & Shop customers can keep the spirit of giving alive by organizing a holiday food or toy drive; donating unwanted clothes or blankets; or volunteering at a local soup kitchen, Boys & Girls Club or other community service organization.

Customers may also explore additional hunger relief programs funded by Stop & Shop:

  • Turkey Express - Stop & Shop will deliver 20,000 turkeys to local hunger relief organizations throughout New England beginning this month. The program will run through Nov. 23, 2009 and will provide turkeys for families serviced by the Greater Boston Food Bank, Rhode Island Community Food Bank, the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, and Long Island Cares to name a few.
  • Kids Cafes/Backpack Programs - A recent $1.5 million dollar grant through the Stop & Shop/Giant Family Foundation will fund hunger relief efforts through Kids Cafes and Backpack programs for the next three years. The programs provide free, nutritious meals and snacks to low income children through Boys & Girls Clubs, churches, and public schools. The grant will allow the Brockton Boys & Girls Club, in conjunction with the Greater Boston Food Bank, to open a Kids Cafe in Brockton, Mass., in early November.

To learn more about Stop & Shop's hunger action initiatives visit, www.stopandshop.com.

About the Stop & Shop Supermarket Company

The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, headquartered in Quincy, Mass., employs more than 59,000 associates and operates stores throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and New Jersey. The company is a member of the US Green Building Council and has been awarded LEED (EB) certifications for 50 of its existing stores. Stop & Shop has been recognized by the EPA for the superior energy management of its stores and is also a member of the EPA's Smart Way program.

About the Stop & Shop/Giant Family Foundation

The Stop & Shop - Giant Family Foundation was created to support educational and recreational programs for children across the communities served by the Stop & Shop Supermarket Company and Giant Food. The Foundation donated more than $750,000 in 2008/2009 and committed $1.2 million as a result of its fundraising efforts.

SOURCE Stop & Shop Supermarket Company

What: Mayor Dave Bing visits White Castle on Angel's Night

When: Friday, October 30th 6:30 P.M.

Who: Mayor Dave Bing

Where: 6364 Woodward Ave. at Baltimore (48202)

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030828/WHITECASTLELOGO )

White Castle is gearing up for thousands of Detroit volunteers who are taking part in the three-day Halloween anti-arson campaign known as Angel's Night from Thursday October 29th - Saturday October 31st. Mayor Dave Bing has confirmed he will visit with volunteers at the White Castle located at 6364 Woodward at Baltimore (zip 48202) on Friday, October 30th at 6:30 P.M.

Angel's Night volunteers can go to White Castles from 6:00 P.M. to 3:00 A.M. All volunteers must go on the inside and/or dining area of each location to receive the free snacks. In order to be served volunteers must wear this year's volunteer T-Shirt or sweatshirt and/or cap. No snacks will be given out at the drive-thru of any White Castle.

This snack will consist of the following: 2 hamburgers and a small soft drink, ice tea, or hot beverage (coffee or hot chocolate). All volunteers should go to the designated White Castle restaurants, since these locations are where most of the patrolling will take place. "However, if someone stops at one of our other locations in the Metro Region we will honor them," says Bob Harrison, White Castle Regional Manager.

White Castle was founded in Wichita, Kansas in 1921. The privately held, family-owned company owns and operates 419 restaurants in 16 major metropolitan markets, in 11 states. It is the first multi-unit/multi-state hamburger chain. There are 48 locations throughout Greater Detroit, and most White Castle restaurants are open 24 hours. For more information, visit www.whitecastle.com.

1930 Michigan Ave. (Detroit), 2735 W. Davison (Detroit)

20409 James Couzens Fwy. (Detroit), 15365 Wyoming Ave. (Detroit)

17739 Grand River Ave. (Detroit), 22365 Grand River (Detroit)

21400 Woodward Ave. (Ferndale), 14401 Harper Ave. (Detroit)

6711 8 Mile Rd. (Warren), 16701 Harper Ave. (Detroit)

20703 Gratiot (Eastpointe), 10500 Gratiot (Detroit), 16701 Harper Ave. (Detroit)

6364 Woodward Ave. (Detroit), 8811 Greenfield (Detroit)

6301 W. Warren (Detroit), 3720 Gratiot (Detroit)


                  Detailed List of White Castles

      Castle  Address  Street              City           State       Zip
        #
       011    21400    Woodward Ave.       Ferndale        MI.       48220
       013    20703    Gratiot             Eastpointe      MI.       48021
       018     6301    W. Warren           Detroit         MI.       48210
       019     1930    Michigan Ave.       Detroit         MI.       48216
       038    20409    James Couzens Fwy.  Detroit         MI.       48235
       039     3720    Gratiot             Detroit         MI.       48207
       040     8811    Greenfield          Detroit         MI.       48228
       041     6711    8 Mile Rd.          Warren          MI.       48091
       042    14401    Harper Ave.         Detroit         MI.       48224
       043    15365    Wyoming Ave.        Detroit         MI.       48238
       044     6364    Woodward Ave.       Detroit         MI.       48202
                       (at Baltimore)
       048    10500    Gratiot             Detroit         MI.       48213
       049    22365    Grand River Ave.    Detroit         MI.       48219
       050    14350    Grand River Ave.    Detroit         MI.       48219
       051     2735    W. Davison          Detroit         MI.       48238
       058    17739    Grand River Ave.    Detroit         MI.       48227
       059    16701    Harper Ave.         Detroit         MI.       48224

SOURCE White Castle

Cabot Corporation (NYSE: CBT) today announced results for its fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2009.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000323/CABOTLOGO )

Key Highlights

  • Quarterly volumes increase 15-30% sequentially as downstream markets continue to improve in all regions; fiscal 2009 volume levels 20-30% below fiscal 2008
  • New Business Segment ends fiscal 2009 with positive cash flow; full year cash generation improves by $43 million on 16% higher revenues
  • Restructuring ahead of schedule and at substantially lower cost than forecast; lower operating expenses benefit fourth quarter and full year results
  • Cash and liquidity remain solid, ending the year with a cash balance of $304 million; strong balance sheet and credit rating enable bond offering on favorable terms
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------
    (In millions, except per
     share amounts)                       2009                  2008
                                    -----------------------------------------
                                    Fourth     Fiscal     Fourth     Fiscal
                                    Quarter    Year       Quarter    Year
                                    -------    ------     -------    --------
    Net sales                         $610     $2,243       $854     $3,191
    Net (loss)/ income                $(11)      $(77)       $12        $86
    Diluted (loss)/ earnings per
     share from continuing
     operations                     $(0.17)    $(1.21)     $0.18      $1.34
    Less:  Certain items per
      share                          (0.47)     (1.37)     (0.04)     (0.15)
    Adjusted earnings per share      $0.30      $0.16      $0.22      $1.49
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------

For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009, the Company reported a net loss of $11 million (a loss of $0.17 per common share). Adjusted EPS was income of $0.30 per common share, excluding $0.47 per common share of certain items principally related to restructuring charges. For fiscal 2009, the Company reported a net loss of $77 million ($1.21 per common share). Adjusted EPS for fiscal 2009 was income of $0.16 per common share, excluding $1.37 per common share of certain items principally related to restructuring charges. Details of the Company's financial results and certain items are provided in the accompanying tables.

Commenting on the results, Patrick Prevost, Cabot's President and CEO, stated, "We are pleased with our results for the quarter given the ongoing challenges in the broader economy. Sales volumes increased substantially in our key businesses and in all regions since last quarter. Although the Rubber Blacks Business saw rising feedstock costs, profitability increased due to stronger volumes. A combination of margin and volume improvement also lifted the Performance Segment.

For the year, however, volumes remained more than 20% below the peak levels experienced in 2008. Profitability was also negatively affected by $60 million from high cost inventory. In response to the dramatic slowdown in the global economy, we announced a restructuring program in January that is well ahead of schedule to deliver in excess of $80 million of fixed cost savings in fiscal 2010. Approximately 30% of these savings were captured in fiscal 2009 and our total cost to implement the plan has come down from our original estimate of $150 million to approximately $115 million. The New Business Segment made significant progress during fiscal 2009 improving PBT by $25 million and ending the year with positive cash flow. Finally, we generated nearly $400 million in operating cash this year, and our solid balance sheet and credit rating enabled us to obtain very favorable terms on a $300 million public bond issuance. All in all, a strong performance in a very difficult environment."

Financial Detail

Segment Results

Core Segment- Fourth quarter 2009 profitability in the Rubber Blacks Business increased by $5 million sequentially due to 15% higher volumes, with growth in all regions despite a $6 million incremental unfavorable contract lag impact from rising feedstock costs. When compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, profitability decreased by $5 million principally due to 4% lower volumes. Lower unit margins relative to very strong fourth quarter 2008 levels, were largely offset by lower operating expenses from restructuring and other cost saving measures. For fiscal 2009, profitability in the Rubber Blacks Business decreased by $74 million when compared to fiscal 2008 due to 21% lower volumes from weaker end market demand and lower unit margins that more than offset a contract lag benefit. These factors were partially offset by lower operating expenses from restructuring and cost saving measures.

Fourth quarter 2009 profitability in the Supermetals Business decreased by $3 million sequentially due to lower tantalum powder demand and an unfavorable product mix. When compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 profitability increased by $3 million as higher product prices and lower ore costs more than offset lower volumes due to weaker demand in the electronics market. For fiscal 2009, Supermetals' profitability was flat when compared to fiscal 2008 as lower volumes from weaker electronics demand was offset by favorable pricing and lower operating expenses. The Supermetals Business continues to focus on cash generation and during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 generated $13 million in cash, principally from a reduction in working capital. During fiscal 2009, the business generated $39 million in cash.

Performance Segment- When compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2009, profitability in the Performance Segment increased by $18 million. The increase was driven principally by higher volumes and improved unit margins. Sequentially, volumes increased by 11% in Performance Products and by 31% in Fumed Metal Oxides. When compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, profitability increased by $4 million as lower operating expenses from restructuring and cost saving measures and lower raw material costs more than offset lower volumes from weakness in the automotive, construction and electronics markets. When compared to last year's fourth quarter, volumes were down 12% in Performance Products and 4% in Fumed Metal Oxides. For fiscal 2009, profitability in the Segment decreased by $79 million when compared to fiscal 2008 driven by lower volumes and the unfavorable impact of older, high cost inventory, partially offset by lower operating expenses and a LIFO benefit. Volumes decreased 29% in Performance Products and 26% in Fumed Metal Oxides in fiscal 2009 when compared to fiscal 2008 due to weaker demand in all key end markets.

Specialty Fluids Segment- Profitability in the Specialty Fluids Segment for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 decreased by $5 million when compared to an exceptionally strong third quarter. When compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, profitability decreased by $2 million principally due to higher fixed costs from lower manufacturing utilization. For fiscal 2009 profitability decreased by $3 million when compared to fiscal 2008 as lower volumes were partially offset by favorable pricing and lower operating expenses. During fiscal 2009 we continued to make progress growing the business beyond the North Sea region with 29% of sales coming from regions outside of the North Sea, compared to 21% in fiscal 2008 and 17% in fiscal 2007.

New Business Segment- The New Business Segment finished fiscal 2009 having generated positive cash flow, improving cash generation by $43 million year over year. The increase was from a combination of revenue growth, cost management and a reduction in net working capital. When compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2009, current quarter revenues increased by $5 million, driven principally by higher sales in Inkjet Colorants. Revenues decreased by $1 million when compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 due to lower sales in the Aerogel Business. Fiscal 2009 revenues increased by 16%, or $9 million, when compared to fiscal 2008 with increases in all businesses within the Segment.

Cash Performance- During fiscal 2009, the Company generated $395 million of cash from operations, including a $340 million decrease in working capital, ending the year with a $304 million cash balance. During the fourth quarter, the Company raised $300 million in long term public debt with a 5% coupon maturing in 2016. A portion of the net proceeds were used to pay down borrowings under our revolving credit facility and the balance will be used for general corporate purposes. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2009 were $102 million compared to $199 million in fiscal 2008.

Taxes- During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009, the Company recorded a tax provision of $1 million, including a $6 million reversal of tax benefits from the first half of fiscal 2009. The Company benefited during the quarter from a substantial improvement in business performance in lower tax jurisdictions. This resulted in a lower than usual operating tax rate for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009.

Outlook

Commenting on the outlook for the Company, Prevost said, "The volume improvements we experienced in the last two quarters of fiscal 2009 give us some optimism for the coming year. Although the progress has been very positive, a full recovery to pre-downturn levels will most likely occur at a moderate pace. Our restructuring efforts have positioned us well to benefit from the recovery and we are confident in our ability to achieve our long-term financial targets. While feedstock volatility continues to be a concern, we have taken steps to lessen its impact on our business results. Our strong balance sheet, cash position and access to liquidity give us additional flexibility through the economic recovery."

Earnings Call

The Company will host a conference call with industry analysts at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time on October 29, 2009. The call can be accessed through Cabot's investor relations website at http://investor.cabot-corp.com.

Cabot Corporation, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is a global performance materials company. Cabot's major products are carbon black, fumed silica, inkjet colorants, aerogel, capacitor materials, and cesium formate drilling fluids. The Company's website is: http://www.cabot-corp.com.

Forward-Looking Statements- This earnings release contains forward-looking statements based on management's current expectations, estimates and projections. All statements that address expectations or projections about the future (including our expectations concerning the annualized fixed cost savings we expect from, and the costs associated with, our restructuring initiative and demand for our products), strategy for growth, market position, and expected financial results are forward-looking statements. Some of the forward-looking statements may be identified by words like "expects," "anticipates," "plans," "intends," "projects," "indicates," and similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors, including those discussed more fully elsewhere in this release and in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by Cabot, particularly its latest annual report on Form 10-K, could cause results to differ materially from those stated. These factors include, but are not limited to changes in raw material costs; costs associated with the research and development of new products, including regulatory approval and market acceptance; competitive pressures; successful integration of structural changes, including restructuring plans, and joint ventures; the laws, regulations, policies and economic conditions, including inflation, interest and foreign currency exchange rates, of countries in which the company does business; and severe weather events that cause business interruptions, including plant and power outages, or disruptions in supplier or customer operations.

Explanation of Terms Used- When explaining factors affecting our performance, we use several terms. The term "LIFO benefit" or "LIFO impact" includes two factors: (i) the impact of current inventory costs being recognized immediately in cost of goods sold ("COGS") under a last-in first-out method, compared to the older costs that would have been included in COGS under a first-in first-out method ("COGS impact"); and (ii) the impact of reductions in inventory quantities, causing historical inventory costs to flow through COGS ("liquidation impact"). The LIFO impact for fiscal 2009 was a favorable $21 million and is comprised of $15 million of COGS impact and $6 million of liquidation impact. The LIFO impact for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2009 was an unfavorable $4 million and is comprised of $5 million of COGS impact partially offset by $1 million of liquidation impact. The term "contract lag" refers to the time lag of the price adjustments in certain of our rubber blacks supply contracts to account for changes in feedstock costs and, in some cases, changes in other relevant costs. The term "product mix" refers to the various types and grades, or mix, of products sold by a particular Business or Segment during the period, and the positive or negative impact of that mix on the variable margin and profitability of the Business or Segment.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures- The preceding discussion of our results and the accompanying financial tables report adjusted EPS and also include information on our reportable segment sales and segment (or business) operating profit before taxes ("PBT"). Adjusted EPS and segment PBT are non-GAAP financial measures and are not intended to replace EPS and income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes, equity in net income of affiliated companies and minority interest, respectively, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. Both EPS and adjusted EPS are calculated on a diluted share basis. In calculating adjusted EPS and segment PBT, we exclude certain items, meaning items that are significant and unusual or infrequent and not believed to reflect the true underlying business performance, and, therefore, are not allocated to a segment's results or included in adjusted EPS. Further, in calculating segment PBT we include equity in net income of affiliated companies, royalties paid by equity affiliates, minority interest and allocated corporate costs but exclude interest expense, foreign currency translation gains and losses, interest income, dividend income and unallocated corporate costs. Our chief operating decision-maker uses adjusted EPS to evaluate the underlying earnings power of the Company. Segment PBT is used to evaluate changes in the operating results of each segment before non-operating factors and before certain items and to allocate resources to the segments. We believe that these non-GAAP measures also assist our investors in evaluating the changes in our results and the Company's performance. A reconciliation of adjusted EPS to EPS is shown in the table titled Certain Items and Reconciliation of Adjusted EPS, and a reconciliation of total segment PBT to income (loss) from operations before taxes, equity in net income of affiliated companies and minority interest is shown in the table titled Summary Results by Segments. The certain items that are excluded from our calculation of adjusted EPS and segment PBT are detailed in the table titled Certain Items and Reconciliation of Adjusted EPS.

    Fourth Quarter Earnings Announcement, Fiscal 2009

    CABOT CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

    Periods ended September 30
    Dollars in millions, except per share       Three Months    Twelve Months
    amounts (unaudited)                        2009     2008    2009    2008
    -------------------------------------       ----     ----    ----    ----
    Net sales and other operating revenues      $610     $854  $2,243  $3,191
    Cost of sales                                538      742   2,016   2,707
                                                 ---      ---   -----   -----
      Gross profit                                72      112     227     484

    Selling and administrative expenses           50       56     210     246
    Research and technical expenses               18       19      71      74
                                                  --       --      --      --
      Income (loss) from operations                4       37     (54)    164

    Other income and expense
      Interest and dividend income                 -        2       2       4
      Interest expense                            (7)     (11)    (30)    (38)
      Other income (expense)                      (7)     (12)    (20)    (18)
                                                 ---      ---     ---     ---
        Total other income and expense           (14)     (21)    (48)    (52)
                                                 ---      ---     ---     ---

    (Loss) income from operations before
     income taxes                                (10)      16    (102)    112
    (Provision) benefit for income taxes          (1)      (1)     22     (14)
    Equity in net income of affiliated
     companies, net of tax                         3        2       5       8
    Minority interest in net income, net of
     tax                                          (3)      (5)     (2)    (20)
                                                  --       --      --     ---
         (Loss) income from continuing
          operations                             (11)      12     (77)     86
    Loss from discontinued operations, net
     of tax (A)                                    -        -       -       -
                                                ----      ---    ----     ---
              Net (loss) income                 $(11)     $12    $(77)    $86
                                                ----      ---    ----     ---

    Diluted (loss) earnings per share of
     common stock
      Continuing operations                   $(0.17)   $0.18  $(1.21)  $1.34
      Discontinued operations (A)                  -        -   (0.01)      -
                                                 ---      ---   -----     ---
      Net (loss) income per share             $(0.17)   $0.18  $(1.22)  $1.34

    Weighted average common shares outstanding
      Diluted                                     64       64      63      64


    (A) Amounts relate to legal settlements in connection with our
        discontinued operations.



    Fourth Quarter Earnings Announcement, Fiscal 2009

    CABOT CORPORATION SUMMARY RESULTS BY SEGMENTS

    Periods ended September 30
    Dollars in millions, except per share         Three Months   Twelve Months
     amounts (unaudited)                          2009   2008    2009    2008
    -------------------------------------         ----   ----    ----    ----
    SALES
    Core Segment                                  $377   $553  $1,426  $2,064
      Rubber blacks                                343    505   1,286   1,868
      Supermetals                                   34     48     140     196
    Performance Segment                            183    237     621     931
      Performance products                         118    165     411     645
      Fumed metal oxides                            65     72     210     286
    New Business Segment                            19     20      67      58
      Inkjet colorants                              14     13      46      43
      Aerogel(A)                                     4      5      15      10
      Superior MicroPowders                          1      2       6       5
    Specialty Fluids Segment                        14     19      59      68
                                                    --     --      --      --
      Segment sales                                593    829   2,173   3,121

    Unallocated and other (A), (B)                  17     25      70      70
                                                    --     --      --      --
      Net sales and other operating revenues      $610   $854  $2,243  $3,191
                                                  ----   ----  ------  ------
    SEGMENT PROFIT
    Core Segment                                   $16    $18     $33    $107
      Rubber blacks                                 16     21      34     108
      Supermetals                                    -     (3)     (1)     (1)
    Performance Segment                             28     24      40     119
    New Business Segment                            (2)    (5)    (10)    (35)
    Specialty Fluids Segment                         4      6      21      24
                                                    --     --      --      --
      Total Segment Profit (C)                      46     43      84     215

    Interest expense                                (7)   (11)    (30)    (38)
    Certain items (D)                              (36)    (3)   (103)    (13)
    Unallocated corporate costs (E)                 (6)    (3)    (28)    (28)
    General unallocated expense (F)                 (4)    (8)    (20)    (16)
    Less: Equity in net income of affiliated
     companies, net of tax                          (3)    (2)     (5)     (8)
                                                    --     --      --      --
      (Loss) income from continuing operations
       before income taxes, equity in net
       income of affiliated companies and
       minority interest                           (10)    16    (102)    112

    (Provision) benefit for income taxes            (1)    (1)     22     (14)

    Equity in net income of affiliated
     companies, net of tax                           3      2       5       8

    Minority interest in net income, net of tax     (3)    (5)     (2)    (20)
                                                    --     --      --     ---

          (Loss) income from continuing
           operations                             $(11)   $12    $(77)    $86
      Loss from discontinued operations, net
       of tax (G)                                    -      -       -       -

                                                  ----    ---    ----     ---
          Net (loss) income                       $(11)   $12    $(77)    $86
                                                  ----    ---    ----     ---
    Diluted (loss) earnings per share of
     common stock
      Continuing operations                     $(0.17) $0.18  $(1.21)  $1.34
      Discontinued operations (G)                    -      -   (0.01)      -
                                                    --     --   -----      --
      Net (loss) income per share               $(0.17) $0.18  $(1.22)  $1.34

    Weighted average common shares outstanding
      Diluted                                       64     64      63      64

      Note:  During the third quarter of fiscal 2008, management changed the
      way it manages the Company's businesses.  Accordingly, the segment
      results for all periods presented have been revised to reflect these
      changes.

    (A)   Royalty income received by the Aerogel business, which has been
          included in Unallocated and other in prior periods, has been
          reclassified to Segment sales for all periods presented above.

    (B)   Unallocated and other reflects an elimination for sales of one
          equity affiliate, prior to the consolidation of its results
          beginning April 1, 2008, offset by royalties paid by equity
          affiliates and other operating revenues and external shipping and
          handling fees.

    ( C ) Segment profit is a measure used by Cabot's Chief Operating
          Decision-Maker to measure consolidated operating results, assess
          segment performance and allocate resources. Segment profit
          includes equity in net income of affiliated companies, royalty
          income, minority interest and allocated corporate costs.

    (D)   Details of certain items are presented in the Certain Items and
          Reconciliation of Adjusted EPS table.

    (E)   During the first quarter of fiscal 2009, management changed the
          allocation method of its corporate costs to its segments.  Under
          this new method, costs that are not controlled by the segments and
          which primarily benefit corporate interests are not allocated to
          the segments.  Prior periods have been recast to conform to the new
          allocation method.

    (F)   General unallocated expense includes foreign currency transaction
          gains (losses), interest income, and dividend income.

    (G)   Amounts relate to legal settlements in connection with our
          discontinued operations.



    Fourth Quarter Earnings Announcement, Fiscal 2009

    CABOT CORPORATION  CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL POSITION

                                                September 30,  September 30,
    Dollars in millions, except share and per        2009           2008
    share amounts                               (unaudited)     (audited)
    -----------------------------------------   ------------    ----------
    Current assets:
      Cash and cash equivalents                         $304           $129
      Short-term marketable securities                     1              1
      Accounts and notes receivable, net of
       reserve for doubtful accounts of $6 and $5        452            646
      Inventories:
           Raw materials                                 118            193
           Work in process                                44             58
           Finished goods                                165            246
           Other                                          31             26
                                                          --             --
                Total inventories                        358            523
      Prepaid expenses and other current
       assets                                             42             72
      Deferred income taxes                               40             30
      Assets held for sale                                 -              7
                                                         ---            ---
           Total current assets                        1,197          1,408
                                                       -----          -----
    Investments:
      Equity affiliates                                   60             53
      Long-term marketable securities and
       cost investments                                    1              1
                                                         ---            ---
           Total investments                              61             54
                                                          --             --

    Property, plant and equipment                      2,999          2,921
    Accumulated depreciation and amortization         (1,987)        (1,839)
                                                      ------         ------
         Net property, plant and equipment             1,012          1,082
                                                       -----          -----

    Other assets:
      Goodwill                                            37             34
      Intangible assets, net of accumulated
       amortization of $12 and $11                         2              3
      Assets held for rent                                43             45
      Deferred income taxes                              221            173
      Other assets                                       102             59
                                                         ---             --
           Total other assets                            405            314
                                                         ---            ---

    Total assets                                      $2,675         $2,858
                                                      ======         ======



    Fourth Quarter Earnings Announcement, Fiscal 2009

    CABOT CORPORATION  CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL POSITION


                                                September 30,  September 30,
    Dollars in millions, except share and per        2009           2008
     share amounts                               (unaudited)     (audited)
    -----------------------------------------   ------------    ----------
    Current liabilities:
      Notes payable to banks                             $29            $91
      Accounts payable and accrued liabilities           407            426
      Income taxes payable                                26             38
      Deferred income taxes                                4              7
      Current portion of long-term debt                    5             39
                                                         ---             --
           Total current liabilities                     471            601
                                                         ---            ---

    Long-term debt                                       623            586
    Deferred income taxes                                 10             18
    Other liabilities                                    333            294

    Minority interest                                    103            110

    Stockholders' equity:
      Preferred stock:
       Authorized:  2,000,000 shares of $1 par value
           Issued: None and none                           -              -
           Outstanding: None and none
      Common stock:
        Authorized:  200,000,000 shares of $1 par value
           Issued: 64,115,085 and 65,403,100 shares       64             65
           Outstanding: 64,022,755 and 65,277,715 shares
           Less cost of 92,329 and 125,385 shares
            of common treasury stock                      (3)            (4)
    Additional paid-in capital                            19             21
    Retained earnings                                  1,019          1,143
    Deferred employee benefits                           (25)           (30)
    Notes receivable for restricted stock                  -            (21)
    Accumulated other comprehensive income                61             75
                                                          --             --
           Total stockholders' equity                  1,135          1,249
                                                       -----          -----

    Total liabilities and stockholders' equity        $2,675         $2,858
                                                      ======         ======



    CABOT CORPORATION
                                                  Fiscal  2008
                                                  ------------
    In millions,
    except per share amounts
     (unaudited)                  Dec. Q.  Mar. Q.  June Q.  Sept. Q.    FY
    ------------------------      -------  -------  -------  --------    --

    Sales
    Core Segment                     $463     $511     $537      $553  $2,064
      Rubber blacks                   410      454      499       505   1,868
      Supermetals                      53       57       38        48     196
    Performance Segment               211      236      247       237     931
      Performance products            141      164      175       165     645
      Fumed metal oxides               70       72       72        72     286
    New Business Segment               10       14       14        20      58
      Inkjet colorants                  8       11       11        13      43
      Aerogel (A)                       1        2        2         5      10
      Superior MicroPowders             1        1        1         2       5
    Specialty Fluids Segment           16       16       17        19      68
    ------------------------           --       --       --        --      --
      Segment Sales                   700      777      815       829   3,121
    Unallocated and other (A), (B)     11        9       25        25      70
    -----------------------------      --      ---       --        --      --

    Net sales and other
     operating revenues              $711     $786     $840      $854  $3,191
    -------------------              ----     ----     ----      ----  ------

    Segment Profit
    Core Segment                      $19      $29      $41       $18    $107
      Rubber blacks                    16       28       43        21     108
      Supermetals                       3        1       (2)       (3)     (1)
    Performance Segment                31       32       32        24     119
    New Business Segment              (12)      (9)      (9)       (5)    (35)
    Specialty Fluids Segment            8        5        5         6      24
    ------------------------          ---      ---      ---       ---      --
      Total Segment Profit
       (Loss) (C)                      46       57       69        43     215


    Interest expense                   (9)      (9)      (9)      (11)    (38)
    Certain items (D)                  10      (12)      (8)       (3)    (13)
    Unallocated corporate costs
     (E)                               (7)     (10)      (8)       (3)    (28)
    General unallocated expense
     (F)                               (4)      (1)      (3)       (8)    (16)
    Less: Equity in net income
     of affiliated companies, net
     of tax                            (2)      (2)      (2)       (2)     (8)
    -----------------------------      --       --       --        --      --

      Income (loss) before
       income taxes, equity in
       net income of affiliated
       companies and minority
       interest                        34       23       39        16     112
    Benefit (provision) for
     income taxes                       6      (11)      (8)       (1)    (14)
    Equity in net income of
     affiliated companies, net of
     tax                                2        2        2         2       8
    Minority interest in net
     income, net of tax                (6)      (3)      (6)       (5)    (20)
    ------------------------           --       --       --        --     ---

      Income (loss) from
       continuing operations           36       11       27        12      86

    Loss from discontinued
     operations, net of tax (G)         -        -        -         -       -
         Net income                    36       11       27        12      86

    Diluted earnings (loss) per
     share of common stock
         Continuing operations      $0.56    $0.17    $0.43     $0.18   $1.34
         Discontinued operations
         (G)                            -        -        -         -       -
    -----------------------------   -----    -----    -----     -----   -----
         Net income (loss)          $0.56    $0.17    $0.43     $0.18   $1.34

    Weighted average common
     shares outstanding
    Diluted                            64       64       63        64      64
    -------                            --       --       --        --      --


                                                  Fiscal  2009
                                                  ------------

    In millions,
    except per share amounts
     (unaudited)                  Dec. Q.  Mar. Q.  June Q.  Sept. Q.    FY
    ------------------------      -------  -------  -------  --------    --

    Sales
    Core Segment                     $444     $295     $310      $377  $1,426
      Rubber blacks                   399      272      272       343   1,286
      Supermetals                      45       23       38        34     140
    Performance Segment               157      132      149       183     621
      Performance products            105       90       98       118     411
      Fumed metal oxides               52       42       51        65     210
    New Business Segment               18       16       14        19      67
      Inkjet colorants                 13        9       10        14      46
      Aerogel (A)                       4        5        2         4      15
      Superior MicroPowders             1        2        2         1       6
    Specialty Fluids Segment           15       11       19        14      59
    ------------------------           --       --       --        --      --
      Segment Sales                   634      454      492       593   2,173
    Unallocated and other (A), (B)     18       16       19        17      70
    -----------------------------      --       --       --        --      --

    Net sales and other
     operating revenues              $652     $470     $511      $610  $2,243
    -------------------              ----     ----     ----      ----  ------

    Segment Profit
    Core Segment                      $27     $(24)     $14       $16     $33
      Rubber blacks                    24      (17)      11        16      34
      Supermetals                       3       (7)       3         -      (1)
    Performance Segment                 3       (1)      10        28      40
    New Business Segment               (3)      (1)      (4)       (2)    (10)
    Specialty Fluids Segment            4        4        9         4      21
    ------------------------          ---      ---      ---       ---      --
      Total Segment Profit
       (Loss) (C)                      31      (22)      29        46      84


    Interest expense                   (9)      (8)      (6)       (7)    (30)
    Certain items (D)                  (2)     (46)     (19)      (36)   (103)
    Unallocated corporate costs
     (E)                               (7)      (8)      (7)       (6)    (28)
    General unallocated expense
     (F)                              (10)      (7)       1        (4)    (20)
    Less: Equity in net income
     of affiliated companies, net
     of tax                            (2)       -        -        (3)     (5)
    -----------------------------      --      ---      ---        --      --

      Income (loss) before
       income taxes, equity in
       net income of affiliated
       companies and minority
       interest                         1      (91)      (2)      (10)   (102)
    Benefit (provision) for
     income taxes                      (1)      31       (7)       (1)     22
    Equity in net income of
     affiliated companies, net of
     tax                                2        -        -         3       5
    Minority interest in net
     income, net of tax                 2        2       (3)       (3)     (2)
    ------------------------          ---      ---       --        --      --

      Income (loss) from
       continuing operations            4      (58)     (12)      (11)    (77)

    Loss from discontinued
     operations, net of tax (G)         -        -        -         -       -
         Net income                     4      (58)     (12)      (11)    (77)

    Diluted earnings (loss) per share
     of common stock

         Continuing operations      $0.07   $(0.92)  $(0.19)   $(0.17) $(1.21)

         Discontinued operations
          (G)                           -        -    (0.01)        -   (0.01)

    ----------------------------    -----   ------   ------    ------  ------
         Net income (loss)          $0.07   $(0.92)  $(0.20)   $(0.17) $(1.22)

    Weighted average common shares
     outstanding
    Diluted                            64       63       63        64      63
    --------                           --       --       --        --      --


          Note:  During the third quarter of fiscal 2008, management changed
          the way it manages the Company's businesses.  Accordingly, the
          segment results for all periods presented have been revised to
          reflect these changes.

    (A)   Royalty income received by the Aerogel business, which has been
          included in Unallocated and other in prior periods, has been
          reclassified to Segment sales for all periods presented above.

    (B)   Unallocated and other reflects an elimination for sales of one
          equity affiliate, prior to the consolidation of its results
          beginning April 1, 2008, offset by royalties paid by equity
          affiliates and other operating revenues and external shipping and
          handling fees.

    ( C ) Segment profit is a measure used by Cabot's Chief Operating
          Decision-Maker to measure consolidated operating results, assess
          segment performance and allocate resources. Segment profit includes
          equity in net income of affiliated companies, royalty income,
          minority interest and allocated corporate costs.

    (D)   Details of certain items are presented in the Certain Items and
          Reconciliation of Adjusted EPS table.

    (E)   During the first quarter of fiscal 2009, management changed the
          allocation method of its corporate costs to its segments.  Under
          this new method, costs that are not controlled by the segments and
          which primarily benefit corporate interests are not allocated to
          the segments.   Prior periods have been recast to conform to the
          new allocation method.

    (F)   General unallocated expense includes foreign currency transaction
          gains (losses), interest income, and dividend income.

    (G)   Amounts relate to legal settlements in connection with our
          discontinued operations.



    Fourth Quarter Earnings Announcement, Fiscal 2009

    CABOT CORPORATION  CERTAIN ITEMS AND RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED EPS


    CERTAIN ITEMS:
    --------------
    Periods ended
     September 30               Three Months            Twelve Months
                                ------------            -------------
    Dollars in
     millions, except
     per share amounts
     (unaudited)
                               2009          2008         2009         2008
                                per           per          per          per
                         2009  share  2008   share  2009  share  2008  share
                          $     (A)     $     (A)     $    (A)    $     (A)
                         ----  -----  ----   -----  ----  -----  ----- ------
    Certain items before
    income taxes
    --------------------
    Executive
     transition cost    $(4) $(0.04)   $-      $-   $(4) $(0.04)  $(4) $(0.04)

    Write-down of
     impaired
     investments          -       -     -       -    (1)  (0.01)    -       -

    Environmental
     reserves and legal
     settlements         (7)  (0.07)    -   (0.01)   (7)  (0.07)  $(3) $(0.05)

    Reserve for
     respirator claims    -       -     2    0.03     -       -    $2   $0.03

    Debt issuance costs   -       -    (2)  (0.03)    -       -    (2)  (0.03)

    Restructuring
     initiatives:

      - 2009 Global     (25)  (0.36)    -       -   (89)  (1.23)    -       -
      - 2008 Global       -       -    (1)  (0.01)   (1)  (0.01)   (6)  (0.06)
      - Altona,
       Australia          -       -     -       -     -       -    18    0.20
      - North America     -       -    (2)  (0.02)   (2)  (0.02)  (16)  (0.18)
      - Europe (B)        -       -     -       -     1    0.01    (2)  (0.02)
                        ---     ---   ---     ---   ---    ----   ---   -----
      Total certain
       items            (36)  (0.47)   (3)  (0.04) (103)  (1.37)  (13)  (0.15)
                        ---   -----    --   -----  ----   -----   ---   -----

    Discontinued
     operations ( C )     -       -     -       -     -   (0.01)    -       -
                        ---     ---   ---     ---   ---   -----   ---     ---
      Total certain
       items and
       discontinued
       operations       (36)  (0.47)   (3)  (0.04) (103)  (1.38)  (13)  (0.15)
                        ---   -----    --   -----  ----   -----   ---   -----
      Tax impact of
       certain items      7       -     1       -    17       -     3       -
                        ---     ---   ---     ---   ---     ---   ---     ---
    Total certain items
     and discontinued
     operations, after
     tax               $(29) $(0.47)  $(2) $(0.04) $(86) $(1.38) $(10) $(0.15)
                       ----  ------   ---  ------  ----  ------  ----  ------


    Periods ended September 30         Three Months   Twelve Months
    Dollars in millions (unaudited)     2009  2008     2009   2008
                                        ----  ----     ----   ----
    Statement of Operations Line Item
    ---------------------------------
    Cost of sales                       $(32)  $(3)    $(91)  $(4)
    Selling and administrative
     expenses                             (4)    2      (10)   (7)
    Research and technical expenses        -     -       (2)    -
    Other income and expense               -    (2)       -    (2)
                                         ---   ---      ---   ---
      Total certain items               $(36)  $(3)   $(103) $(13)
                                        ----   ---    -----  ----

    NON-GAAP MEASURE:
    Periods ended
    September 30                      Three Months       Twelve Months
                                      ------------       -------------
    Dollars in millions, except per
    share amounts (unaudited)        2009      2008     2009       2008
                                      per       per      per       per
                                    share(A)  share(A)  share(A)  share(A)
                                    -------   -------   -------   -------
    Reconciliation of Adjusted
     EPS to GAAP EPS
    --------------------------
    Total Diluted EPS                $(0.17)    $0.18    $(1.22)    $1.34
    Discontinued operations               -         -     (0.01)        -
                                        ---       ---     -----       ---
    Continuing operations            $(0.17)    $0.18    $(1.21)    $1.34
    Certain items                     (0.47)    (0.04)    (1.37)    (0.15)
                                      -----     -----     -----     -----
    Adjusted EPS                      $0.30     $0.22     $0.16     $1.49
                                      -----     -----     -----     -----


    (A)   Per share amounts are calculated after tax.
    (B)   Charges relate to former carbon black facilities.
    ( C ) Amounts relate to legal settlements in connection with our
          discontinued operations, net of tax.



SOURCE Cabot Corporation

This holiday season, shoppers searching for gourmet gifts can finally satisfy the foodies on their shopping lists. Meyer Natural Angus, a company that specializes in USDA Prime steaks from naturally raised cattle, has opened the virtual doors to its online store. The e-commerce site, www.MeyerNaturalAngus.com, offers the same beef products served in some of America's top fine-dining restaurants, now direct to consumer. As part of the launch, Meyer has begun a special limited-time offer of 25 percent off each order plus free shipping.

"Many home cooks would like to serve the best steakhouse-quality beef, but Prime is usually out of reach," said Randy Orton, Meyer Natural Angus senior vice president, sales and marketing. "With packages starting at around $30, our naturally-raised, Prime Angus steaks will fit nicely in many gift-giving budgets."

Meyer Natural Angus steaks set the standard for premium beef. Their cattle are raised naturally on family ranches across the United States, are never administered antibiotics or growth promotants, and are fed a 100 percent vegetarian diet.

"Surprise your favorite foodie this year with something they can sink their teeth into, like the same steaks served at the original Delmonico's in New York," added Orton. "For business people in search of gifts for clients and associates, make a lasting impression by giving mouth-watering Prime steaks that say 'thank you' like popcorn tins never could."

The most popular steak cuts are available: filet mignon, ribeye, New York strip and top sirloin. Shoppers can also choose from a selection of special holiday gift packages with prices ranging from $30 to about $500 for the Ultimate Party Pack. All orders are shipped in reusable thermal-insulated bags. The Web site also includes many chef-created recipes such as Chef Monty's Tuscan top sirloin with lemon-garlic rosemary infused oil.

About Meyer Natural Angus

The Meyer Natural Angus brand is grounded in founder Bob Meyer's promise to raise cattle naturally: fed a 100 percent vegetarian diet and raised without the aid of hormones or antibiotics, ever. Meyer Natural Angus verifies the origins of its cattle and has received "Certified Humane" designation for its processes. To learn more about the premium natural beef offered by Meyer Natural Angus, visit www.MeyerNaturalAngus.com.

SOURCE Meyer Natural Angus

Online emergency food and survival products supplier PrepareCo.com (www.PrepareCo.com) today opened its website to the public. The site specializes in long-term preparedness food storage and critical emergency equipment and supplies including solar ovens, portable generators, medical kits as well as water storage and purification. Food options include freeze dry, dehydrated and bulk foods which can be stored for up to 30 years.

A key feature of the site is a tool that helps both sophisticated and unsophisticated buyers quickly recognize what supplies are needed in order to sustain during extended periods of stressful and challenging living conditions, e.g. during pandemics, hurricanes, natural and man-made disasters. PrepareCo.com's exclusive food calculator tells buyers how much of what kinds of foods to consider, along with their calorie levels, number of servings, average shelf life and required storage space. Buyers can then adjust the optimum recommendation to best match their taste and budget. The calculator takes into account the number of people being covered and the desired period of sustainment.

"We are very concerned by the general sense of individual complacency and 100% dependence on local emergency services," said PrepareCo.com founder Aaron Hawkins. "During any natural or man-made disaster emergency services are taxed. Food, water, medical supplies, power and much more will be in short supply. We're endorsing a sense of personal responsibility. Families should not be put in a position of saying 'I wish I would have... This is not extreme it is social prudence!"

"We live in a reaction-based society," says Hawkins. "With our current H1N1 virus situation it doesn't take much imagination to see how something, that even with months of advance warning, could paralyze our society. Just think if something of similar magnitude hit without warning."

"Preparedness through PrepareCo.com is a responsible approach to sustaining your family or business," Hawkins noted.

PrepareCo.com is the online division of CECURUS (www.CECURUS.com), an emergency preparedness consulting business, including sub-surface shelters, which caters to the needs of high net-worth families and their associated businesses/enterprises.

SOURCE PrepareCo.com

Diabetic patients diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy had lower medical costs and reduced use of anticonvulsant medications when treated with a folate-enriched prescription medical food, according to data presented today at the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research 12th Annual European Congress.

The results of the HealthCore, Inc. study, funded by Pamlab, L.L.C., which manufactures the medical food Metanx®, showed that patients' health plan costs to treat diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy were reduced by about $400 a year.

"In this study, health care savings were driven by lower costs related to hospitalization and outpatient services," said Ron Wade, lead researcher and research operations director for HealthCore, the outcomes research subsidiary for WellPoint, Inc. "Overall, this was more than a 30 percent reduction in costs for medical care related to diabetic peripheral neuropathy."

The study, "Administrative Claims Analysis of an L-Methylfolate Combination Product in Patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy," was co-authored by Wade and Qian Cai of HealthCore and Dr. Tina Thethi, assistant professor of endocrinology, Tulane School of Medicine. The abstract for this study was published in the Sept. 15 online edition of Value in Health.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves usually affecting the hands and feet, causing weakness, numbness, tingling and pain. Anticonvulsant medication is commonly used to control these symptoms.

The HealthCore study found that the group of patients prescribed Metanx tablets reduced their use of anticonvulsants by 31 percent one year after treatment, compared with the control group that reduced their use by 10 percent.

Metanx contains L-methylfolate, pyridoxyl-5-phosphate, and methylcobalmin and has been shown in pilot studies to increase epidermal nerve fiber density in humans, restore sensation and reduce neuropathic pain by increasing nitric oxide levels, which improves endothelial function and increases blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet.

"From clinical trials, we are seeing what Metanx can do clinically, but it is also reassuring to know that in this time of soaring health care costs that Metanx may help reduce costs related to patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy," said Chet Busby, head of Pamlab's scientific affairs.

About the study

The matched cohort study of administrative claims data included 89 adult patients treated with Metanx and 178 patients in a control group. The study group was 65 percent male with a mean age of 60. The study period used medical and pharmacy claims between July 1, 2004 and April 30, 2007 from the HealthCore Integrated Research Database, which includes data on 34 million lives. All patients in the study were being actively treated for diabetes, and had been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. The Metanx treated group received a minimum of two pharmacy claims for Metanx tablets. All patients were followed for a minimum of 18 months. Multivariate statistical analysis was used to control for baseline differences in demographic and clinical characteristics in the cost analysis between the Metanx and control groups.

About HealthCore

HealthCore, based in Wilmington, Del., is the clinical outcomes research subsidiary of WellPoint. HealthCore has a team of highly experienced researchers including physicians, biostatisticians, pharmacists, epidemiologists, health economists and other scientists who study the "real world" safety and effectiveness of drugs, medical devices and care management interventions. HealthCore offers insight on how to best use this data and communicates these findings to health care decision-makers to support evidence-based medicine, product development decisions, safety monitoring, coverage decisions, process improvement and overall cost-effective health care. For more information, go to www.healthcore.com.

SOURCE WellPoint; HealthCore

Conjure, the innovative new spirit from Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, made its television debut on NBC's The Jay Leno Show on Tuesday, October 20, 2009. Ludacris was featured on the segment "Ten @ Ten," in which Leno asked the famed rapper, actor and entrepreneur what his favorite drink is.

Image: http://www.ereleases.com/pr/Conjure.jpg

"I actually have a cognac called Conjure cognac, and here is the bottle right here," said Bridges. "It's coming to a liquor store near you. Make sure you ask for it."

View the full segment here: http://www.thejaylenoshow.com/video/episodes/?vid=1168469&tin=1842&tout=2508

Tuesday's show also included an appearance by Bridges' friend Martha Stewart.

"I love doing the Leno show," says Bridges. "Jay and I have great chemistry, and I was excited to debut Conjure on such a highly respected show."

About Conjure

Conjure is a collaboration between international superstar Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and famed cognac house Birkedal Hartmann, a producer of award-winning spirits since 1887. The company is based in Cognac, France, with offices in Miami, Florida and Oslo, Norway. Conjure is made from the ugni blanc grape from blends that represent a variety of Cognac regions, including, among others, Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, and Borderie. Conjure is a highly selective blend of thirty to forty eaux-de-vie, aged in Limousin oak barrels up to fifty years old. The combination of Conjure's distinct blend and finely seasoned barrels provides an unparalleled complexity of smoothness, definition, and flavor. Conjure... Imagine the Possibilities.

About Chris "Ludacris" Bridges

Chris "Ludacris" Bridges is a celebrated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, as well as a connoisseur of fine spirits. Ludacris has sold over 20 million albums worldwide with each release being certified platinum or multi-platinum by the RIAA. To date, he has won three Grammy Awards (including Best Rap Album for Release Therapy) and appeared in two Academy Award-winning films. In addition to his creative endeavors and business ventures, Mr. Bridges serves as Chairman and CEO of The Ludacris Foundation, an award-winning non-profit organization dedicated to helping young people achieve their dreams through the encouragement of "Principles of Success."

About Birkedal Hartmann

For over a century, Birkedal Hartmann has been creating award-winning cognacs of exceptional quality and character. During this time the company has supplied its cognacs to Europe's Royal Houses and become renowned throughout Europe and the world as a purveyor of fine wines and spirits. The company is based in Cognac, France, and is led by fourth-generation wine and spirits producer Kim Birkedal Hartmann.

    Contact:

    Conjure Imports, LLC
    Nino Serafini
    +1 305 967 7430
    info@conjurecognac.com
    http://www.conjurecognac.com

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE Conjure Imports, LLC

This holiday season, shoppers searching for gourmet gifts can finally satisfy the foodies on their shopping lists. Meyer Natural Angus, a company that specializes in USDA Prime steaks from naturally raised cattle, has opened the virtual doors to its online store. The e-commerce site, www.MeyerNaturalAngus.com, offers the same beef products served in some of America's top fine-dining restaurants, now direct to consumer. As part of the launch, Meyer has begun a special limited-time offer of 25 percent off each order plus free shipping.

"Many home cooks would like to serve the best steakhouse-quality beef, but Prime is usually out of reach," said Randy Orton, Meyer Natural Angus senior vice president, sales and marketing. "With packages starting at around $30, our naturally-raised, Prime Angus steaks will fit nicely in many gift-giving budgets."

Meyer Natural Angus steaks set the standard for premium beef. Their cattle are raised naturally on family ranches across the United States, are never administered antibiotics or growth promotants, and are fed a 100 percent vegetarian diet.

"Surprise your favorite foodie this year with something they can sink their teeth into, like the same steaks served at the original Delmonico's in New York," added Orton. "For business people in search of gifts for clients and associates, make a lasting impression by giving mouth-watering Prime steaks that say 'thank you' like popcorn tins never could."

The most popular steak cuts are available: filet mignon, ribeye, New York strip and top sirloin. Shoppers can also choose from a selection of special holiday gift packages with prices ranging from $30 to about $500 for the Ultimate Party Pack. All orders are shipped in reusable thermal-insulated bags. The Web site also includes many chef-created recipes such as Chef Monty's Tuscan top sirloin with lemon-garlic rosemary infused oil.

About Meyer Natural Angus

The Meyer Natural Angus brand is grounded in founder Bob Meyer's promise to raise cattle naturally: fed a 100 percent vegetarian diet and raised without the aid of hormones or antibiotics, ever. Meyer Natural Angus verifies the origins of its cattle and has received "Certified Humane" designation for its processes. To learn more about the premium natural beef offered by Meyer Natural Angus, visit www.MeyerNaturalAngus.com.

SOURCE Meyer Natural Angus

Novelis today announced the signing of a new multi-year agreement to supply aluminum can sheet to Anheuser-Busch. The agreement becomes effective January 1, 2010, when Novelis' existing supply contract with Anheuser-Busch expires.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070809/NOVELISLOGO )

The agreement extends a long-running relationship between Novelis Inc., the world's leading can sheet producer, and Anheuser-Busch, Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch InBev N.V./S.A. - the world's No. 1 brewer. The contract covers the supply of can body stock, can end stock and can tab stock for use in the production of aluminum beverage containers. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed; however, Novelis acknowledged that the agreement relates to Anheuser-Busch's North American operations only and provides for volumes similar to the current contract.

"Anheuser-Busch has been a valued customer of Novelis for many years and we are pleased that, with this new agreement, we will continue to be a supplier to the company," said Phil Martens, president and chief operating officer of Novelis.

About Novelis

Novelis Inc. is the global leader in aluminum rolled products and aluminum can recycling. The company operates in 11 countries, has approximately 12,300 employees and reported revenue of $10.2 billion in fiscal year 2009. Novelis supplies premium aluminum sheet and foil products to automotive, transportation, packaging, construction, industrial, electronics and printing markets throughout North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Novelis is a subsidiary of Hindalco Industries Limited (BSE: HINDALCO), one of Asia's largest integrated producers of aluminum and a leading copper producer. Hindalco is a flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, a multinational conglomerate based in Mumbai, India. For more information, please visit www.novelis.com.

SOURCE Novelis Inc.

The Quaker Oats Company, a division of PepsiCo, Inc. (NYSE: PEP) has appointed Toronto-based Juniper Park, an Omnicom Group company, agency of record for its entire Quaker Foods & Snacks North America portfolio of brands.

"We're excited to expand our relationship with Juniper Park to now include our entire Quaker Foods and Snacks portfolio," said Kirsten Lynch, Quaker Chief Marketing Officer. "Quaker is the jewel in the PepsiCo family of good-for-you food brands. Juniper Park has been, and will continue to be, a strong partner as we build Quaker into a preeminent health and wellness brand. They bring strong strategic skills, a deep understanding of our consumer, and a track record of outstanding creative for PepsiCo," noted Lynch.

"We are thrilled to take our partnership with Quaker to this new and expanded level," noted Jill Nykoliation, President, Juniper Park.

The agency will assume advertising responsibilities for the Quaker Foods & Snacks portfolio of brands including its 132-year old signature Old Fashioned Quaker® Oats, Quaker® Quick Oats, Quaker® Steel-Cut Oats, Quaker® Instant Oatmeal, Chewy® granola bars, ready-to-eat cereals Life®, Quaker® Oatmeal Squares and Cap'N Crunch®; in addition to their existing work for Near East® and Rice-R-Roni® side dishes and Quaker® rice snacks businesses. Juniper Park has been a PepsiCo partner agency of record since 2007, and also handles assignments for the Frito-Lay North America brands Lay's®, SunChips® and Baked!®

About the Quaker Oats Company

The Quaker Oats Company, headquartered in Chicago, is a $2 billion food and snacks division of PepsiCo. Inc. For more information, visit www.quakeroats.com.

About PepsiCo, Inc.

PepsiCo, Inc. (NYSE: PEP) offers the world's largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 18 different product lines that each generate more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. Our main businesses - Frito-Lay, Quaker, Pepsi-Cola, Tropicana and Gatorade - also make hundreds of other nourishing, tasty foods and drinks that bring joy to our consumers in over 200 countries. With more than $43 billion in 2008 revenues, PepsiCo employs 198,000 people who are united by our unique commitment to sustainable growth, called Performance with Purpose. By dedicating ourselves to offering a broad array of choices for healthy, convenient and fun nourishment, reducing our environmental impact, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, PepsiCo balances strong financial returns with giving back to our communities worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.com.

About Performance with Purpose

PepsiCo's commitment to sustainable growth, defined as Performance with Purpose, is focused on generating healthy financial returns while giving back to communities the company serves. This includes meeting consumer needs for a spectrum of convenient foods and beverages, reducing the company's impact on the environment through water, energy and packaging initiatives, and supporting its employees through a diverse and inclusive culture that recruits and retains world-class talent. PepsiCo is listed on the Dow Jones North America Sustainability Index and the Dow Jones World Sustainability Index.

About Juniper Park

Juniper Park, located in Toronto, is an agency that marries the disciplines of strategy, design and advertising. The award-winning shop was named one of Marketing Magazine's top 10 Agencies of the Year in 2008. Juniper Park is a part of the Omnicom Group, Inc. (NYSE: OMC) a leading global advertising, marketing and corporate communications company.

    Contact:  Hilary Crnkovich
              PepsiCo. Inc. - The Quaker Oats Company
              312-821-1397

SOURCE PepsiCo, Inc.

It's the biggest thing to happen to home kitchens since the microwave! Eades Appliance Technology LLC (EAT), today announced the availability of the SousVide Supreme(TM), a premier water oven created specifically to bring the gourmet 'sous vide' (pronounced soo veed) cooking style into home kitchens everywhere. A water-based cooking method known for its ability to easily maximize a food's flavor, nutrition and appearance, the sous vide cooking technique has previously been limited to upscale restaurants and institutional kitchens due to high equipment costs. Available now for pre-order at www.sousvidesupreme.com, the new SousVide Supreme is an affordable countertop appliance - and the first of its kind - that now provides the everyday cook with easy access to this beneficial culinary style.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091023/SF97818LOGO)

Developed in France in the mid-70's, sous vide translates to "under vacuum." It involves vacuum-packing foods in air-tight pouches, then submerging the pouch in a low-temperature water bath (typically 120-190 degrees Fahrenheit) with a precisely maintained temperature throughout the cooking duration. Cooking times are generally longer than those of a traditional oven, and can span from 30 minutes to several hours or even days, but without the risk of overcooking the food.

The result is moist, tender, flavorful food cooked to a consistent perfection all the way through. For example, instead of a medium rare steak being served with a charred exterior followed by a layer of well-done meat before you taste the tender middle, with sous vide it will be a consistent, juicy medium-rare from edge to edge.

"The taste and texture you get from cooking sous vide is simply spectacular," said famed UK chef Heston Blumenthal, who helped test and develop the SousVide Supreme in conjunction with EAT. "By vacuum-sealing the food and maintaining low temperatures, you lock in healthy nutrients, flavor and moisture that is lost with other cooking methods. It's almost impossible to go wrong, and it's a fun method to experiment with, so it's no surprise sous vide is emerging as the next big trend among adventurous at-home cooks."

In addition to being nutrient-rich and flavorful, the sous vide cooking style is also noted for its ability to maximize time and budgets. While many foods have a minimal cooking time of an hour, the food can be safely left in the water bath for several hours or more and still remain perfectly cooked until the moment it's ready to serve - freeing the cook up for other activities. In addition, longer cooking times dramatically tenderize and transform certain foods, such as tough cuts of meat, helping to add flavor to your menu at minimal cost.

"Although cooking sous vide has many noted benefits, it's been under the radar for most non-professional cooks because current in-home products only offer makeshift, clunky set-ups," said Dr. Mary Dan Eades, physician, respected nutritional expert and EAT co-founder. "The SousVide Supreme is an affordable, all-in-one appliance that automatically regulates the temperature to within one degree Fahrenheit - which is key to successful sous vide cooking - delivering the same precision as commercial set-ups that can easily cost thousands of dollars."

The SousVide Supreme is similar in size to a bread maker, and meals are cooked in a few simple steps:

  • Season: add herbs, butters, or broths to the food - because flavors are intensified, simple seasoning creates dramatically infused flavors;
  • Seal: using a common kitchen vacuum sealer or hand pump, seal the food in a food-grade plastic pouch suitable for cooking;
  • Simmer: submerge the pouch in the SousVide Supreme's 11.2-liter water chamber that has been brought to the desired temperature, and cook for the appropriate time;
  • Sear: an optional step, some meats are best when seared for one or two minutes using a pan, grill, broiler or heat torch - the searing adds a familiar texture and appearance to the outside, while still keeping the inside perfectly cooked;
  • Serve: dish up and enjoy!

The SousVide Supreme can perfectly cook a wide range of food, such as fish, poultry, beef, pork, lamb and game. It can also be used to cook eggs, vegetables, fruits, dessert dishes and more.

The SousVide Supreme retails for $449 at www.sousvidesupreme.com, and ships with gourmet seasonings, recipes and an instructional DVD. The product begins shipping mid-November, and advance orders placed between now and November 13, 2009 will receive a $50 discount.

About the SousVide Supreme(TM)

Passionate about nutritious, flavorful foods, the Eades family and their research experts at Eades Appliance Technology LLC created the SousVide Supreme(TM), consulting with globally renowned chef Heston Blumenthal. The patent-pending SousVide Supreme is the first consumer appliance to bring traditional sous vide cooking techniques to the home kitchen. French for "under vacuum," sous vide is an extremely effective method of cooking whereby food is vacuum-sealed in airtight, food-grade pouches and submerged into a water bath at precisely controlled temperatures - often at much lower temperatures than used in traditional ovens, but for a longer time. A technique long respected by gourmet chefs for its reliability and improved food quality, sous vide can now be enjoyed in home kitchens everywhere, thanks to SousVide Supreme. www.sousvidesupreme.com

SOURCE SousVide Supreme

The International Dairy Foods Association applauded Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and the Obama Administration for highlighting the importance of offering more low fat milk and dairy products in schools. This was prominently featured in his commitment to improve the quality of school meals, one of the top priorities that the Secretary announced today as he outlined the Obama Administration's agenda for Child Nutrition Act reauthorization.

"Kids are eating far too few low fat dairy products," said Vilsack. This is particularly important because the U.S. Department of Agriculture's school meal programs are often the only source of dairy products in many children's diet.

USDA data shows that per capita milk consumption has been falling for decades, and that this decline corresponds to the dramatic increase in per capita consumption of competing beverages among schoolchildren. The USDA also reports that the vast majority of children do not get the recommended amount of calcium. Only 5 percent of girls and 25 percent of boys aged 9 to 13 get the calcium they need.

"We value the exceptional leadership that Secretary Vilsack is providing to improve the health of our nation's children," said Connie Tipton, president and CEO of IDFA. "Milk is an excellent source of nine essential nutrients and vitamins; dairy foods are by far the most significant source of calcium in the U.S. food supply."

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that school age children ages 9 to 18 consume 3 servings a day of low fat or fat-free milk or dairy products including yogurt and cheese. However, most American children fail to meet the recommended dairy servings.

IDFA estimates that less than half of school age children are consuming milk, and the trend towards declining milk consumption continues through high school.

Earlier this week, USDA announced that it is expanding its Healthier US School Challenge. Originally established in 2004 to recognize elementary schools that are promoting good nutrition and physical activity, the Challenge program will now include middle and high schools.

Schools that participate in the Challenge program and meet requirements established by USDA's Food and Nutrition Service are awarded bronze, silver or gold star status for their accomplishments. Encouraging kids to drink more milk, both flavored and plain low fat and nonfat varieties, are key components in the participation requirements.

"Studies have found that children who have a choice of flavored milk, are more likely to meet their calcium needs without consuming more total fat and calories as compared with their peers that don't drink milk," said Tipton, and we are pleased that USDA recommends that schools offer children a wide variety of dairy products.

The program also requires schools to provide physical education and nutrition education and offers strategies for purchasing, preparing and serving meals consistent with the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. (See "Use Low-fat Milk, Cheese and Yogurt for Healthier School Meals" fact sheet for healthier schools meals.) http://www.teamnutrition.usda.gov/Resources/DGfactsheet_milk.pdf

For more details, visit the HealthierUS School Challenge Web page. http://www.teamnutrition.usda.gov/HealthierUS/index.html

SOURCE International Dairy Foods Association

Conjure, the innovative new spirit from Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, made its television debut on NBC's The Jay Leno Show on Tuesday, October 20, 2009. Ludacris was featured on the segment "Ten @ Ten," in which Leno asked the famed rapper, actor and entrepreneur what his favorite drink is.

Image: http://www.ereleases.com/pr/Conjure.jpg

"I actually have a cognac called Conjure cognac, and here is the bottle right here," said Bridges. "It's coming to a liquor store near you. Make sure you ask for it."

View the full segment here: http://www.thejaylenoshow.com/video/episodes/?vid=1168469&tin=1842&tout=2508

Tuesday's show also included an appearance by Bridges' friend Martha Stewart.

"I love doing the Leno show," says Bridges. "Jay and I have great chemistry, and I was excited to debut Conjure on such a highly respected show."

About Conjure

Conjure is a collaboration between international superstar Chris "Ludacris" Bridges and famed cognac house Birkedal Hartmann, a producer of award-winning spirits since 1887. The company is based in Cognac, France, with offices in Miami, Florida and Oslo, Norway. Conjure is made from the ugni blanc grape from blends that represent a variety of Cognac regions, including, among others, Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, and Borderie. Conjure is a highly selective blend of thirty to forty eaux-de-vie, aged in Limousin oak barrels up to fifty years old. The combination of Conjure's distinct blend and finely seasoned barrels provides an unparalleled complexity of smoothness, definition, and flavor. Conjure... Imagine the Possibilities.

About Chris "Ludacris" Bridges

Chris "Ludacris" Bridges is a celebrated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, as well as a connoisseur of fine spirits. Ludacris has sold over 20 million albums worldwide with each release being certified platinum or multi-platinum by the RIAA. To date, he has won three Grammy Awards (including Best Rap Album for Release Therapy) and appeared in two Academy Award-winning films. In addition to his creative endeavors and business ventures, Mr. Bridges serves as Chairman and CEO of The Ludacris Foundation, an award-winning non-profit organization dedicated to helping young people achieve their dreams through the encouragement of "Principles of Success."

About Birkedal Hartmann

For over a century, Birkedal Hartmann has been creating award-winning cognacs of exceptional quality and character. During this time the company has supplied its cognacs to Europe's Royal Houses and become renowned throughout Europe and the world as a purveyor of fine wines and spirits. The company is based in Cognac, France, and is led by fourth-generation wine and spirits producer Kim Birkedal Hartmann.

    Contact:

    Conjure Imports, LLC
    Nino Serafini
    +1 305 967 7430
    info@conjurecognac.com
    http://www.conjurecognac.com

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE Conjure Imports, LLC

South Florida weight-loss expert Sanford Siegal, D.O., M.D., has scored a hit with his latest book, Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book: How a Doctor and His Cookie Helped 500,000 People Lose Weight Fast (2009, Hyde Park Publishing Ltd., 320 pages, ISBN 978-0-9822728-3-19999), which yesterday reached its highest position to date, 428, on Amazon.com. The book has also enjoyed brisk sales on the web site CookieDiet.com.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091024/FL98390 )

"I'm delighted that my book has caught on so quickly because I think it helps the reader to realize that, despite its catchy, flashy name, Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet is a serious, sound approach to weight loss that's based on two hundred years of medical and scientific research," said Dr. Siegal. "It took me fifteen years to write this book, and more than fifty years of treating and observing overweight patients, to acquire the anecdotal evidence upon which Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet is based."

The surge in sales of Dr. Siegal's book is due to a number of recent media profiles:

ABC's Good Morning America

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9fuI9yzx4o

The New York Times

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/22/fashion/22Skin.html?_r=2&hpw

The Miami Herald

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/breaking-news/story/1281450.html

Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book is divided into five sections. In Section One, the author endeavors to establish his credentials before asking the reader to "make a leap of faith" and follow a regimen that Dr. Siegal freely acknowledges bucks the conventional wisdom. Dr. Siegal addresses the tendency for some critics to "summarily dismiss" Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET® based solely on its unquestionably gimmicky name. He accepts his obligation to explain the origin and underlying principles of his diet before asking the reader to "...trust me when I tell you that you'll lose weight by eating cookies all day..." In Chapter Two, entitled "500,000 Anecdotes," Dr. Siegal reveals the import role that "anecdotal evidence" plays in every practicing physician's work, and he explains how his personal observations of more than 500,000 overweight patients support his approach to losing weight.

The second section is the longest and most scholarly part of the book and yet, perhaps paradoxically, the most fun to read. In the lengthiest chapters in the 320-page volume, Dr. Siegal takes the reader on an entertaining, occasionally hilarious journey through two centuries of weight-loss diets and nutritional wisdom. An enthusiastic collector of diet books (his private collection includes hundreds of volumes dating back to the early 18th century), Dr. Siegal resurrects for the reader's pleasure an array of mostly forgotten weight-loss schemes that, in their day, were enormously popular and considered medically sound. Perhaps the most memorable of these was "Fletcherizing," the inspiration of Horace Fletcher, famous in his day as "The Great Masticator," who argued that the key to sound health was to chew each mouthful of food 32 times (once for each tooth), and then spit it out. Fletcher's system had a massive following during the early 20th century.

"At the moment, the world seems fascinated to know whether this or that celebrity follows Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet, and I find that amusing. What people don't know is that every generation for at least the past 200 years had its share of diets with famous followers. Fletcher's diet had countless eminent disciples such as John D. Rockefeller, Mark Twain, and Upton Sinclair."

In Section Three of Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book, which is undoubtedly the most controversial one, the author pulls no punches as he blasts the nutritional pseudo-wisdom with which the public is constantly bombarded by well-meaning but misguided "experts" who have rarely helped an actual overweight person lose weight. Dr. Siegal accuses diet coaches, nutritional counselors, and even some of his fellow doctors with propagating impractical, theoretical advice.

"I take a practical approach to losing weight," Dr. Siegal explained. "The world is full of well-intentioned nutritional advice that comes out of an ivory tower and is too complicated and demanding to be useful in the real world. I want results, not unrealized good intentions."

Dr. Siegal expresses some opinions that run counter to the conventional wisdom as he confirms or refutes a number of popular urban myths. Chapters in Section Three include "The Great Calorie Theory," "The Last Ten Pounds are the Hardest," and "Faster is Better."

Section Four is the diet part of this diet book. It includes recipes, meal guidelines, and detailed instructions for following Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET®, a three-step program that Dr. Siegal and several hundred other physicians have used in their medical practices since 1975.

The last section of Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book contains just one chapter, "For Your Doctor's Eyes Only." It's intended for the reader's doctor who, Dr. Siegal advises, should monitor his patient's health on any diet.

Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book available online at CookieDiet.com, Amazon.com, Borders.com, and BN.com; at Barnes & Noble stores in the United States; and throughout Canada at Indigo, Chapters, World's Biggest Bookstore, and Coles.

ABOUT SANFORD SIEGAL, D.O., M.D.

Sanford Siegal, D.O., M.D., is a practicing physician whose South Florida medical practice, Siegal Medical Group, has treated more than 500,000 overweight patients. Although he has achieved notoriety for his books on subjects including high fiber diets, hunger control without drugs, and hypothyroidism, he is best known as the Cookie Doctor® behind the popular Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET® weight-loss program and hunger-controlling foods. Dr. Siegal is perpetually frequently in the news and has been profiled by dozens of media including The New York Times, ABC's Good Morning America, The Today Show, Toronto Globe & Mail, and Forbes.

    Media Inquiries and Reviewer Copies
    Hyde Park Publishing Ltd.
    888-870-0213 (U.S., toll-free)
    001 202-664-1172 (Worldwide)

SOURCE Hyde Park Publishing Ltd.

The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, following a recall by Unilever United States, announced it removed from sale cartons of Breyer's All Natural Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream due to an undeclared allergen. Unilever announced a voluntary recall of Breyer's All Natural Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream because it was mispackaged and may contain undeclared wheat, posing an allergy issue.

The following code dates and UPCs are affected:

  • All Natural Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, 48 oz UPC code of #7756725425 with the following Best if Used by dates:
    • FEB1711GH,
    • FEB1811GH
    • FEB1911GH

Stop & Shop has not received any reports of illness related to the consumption of this product. This product poses no threat to individuals who do not suffer from a wheat allergy. Customers who have purchased the affected products should discard any unused portions or bring their purchase receipt to Stop & Shop for a full refund. Consumers also may call Unilever at 1-877-270-7402 or Stop & Shop Customer Service at (800) 767-7772 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for more information. Customers can also visit the Stop & Shop website at www.stopandshop.com.

About Stop & Shop

The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, based in Quincy, Massachusetts, employs more than 59,000 associates and operates 389 stores throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, New York and New Jersey.

SOURCE The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation is sharing its legendary treats at a second Raleigh location, a new Neighborhood Shop, beginning Saturday, October 24, at 11 a.m.

The new Neighborhood Shop in City Plaza is located in a pavilion on Fayetteville Street, and will open in conjunction with Raleigh's new City Plaza--a public gathering space that includes open seating, interactive water fountains and LED art panels, granite chess tables and art space. Raleigh Wide Open, a festival featuring live music, food and art vendors, a kids zone, street performers and fireworks, will also be underway.

Following the opening of City Plaza at 11 a.m., the greater Triangle community is invited to be among the first customers at the new shop for a chance to win great prizes. Select prizes include: one free dozen Original Glazed® doughnuts every week for a year; one free dozen Original Glazed doughnuts every month for a year; a Krispy Kreme travel mug with a coupon for a free medium coffee, and an official Krispy Kreme Raleigh T-shirt. Free samples of Kool Kreme® soft serve and other Krispy Kreme treats will be available throughout the day.

The 900-square-foot store will feature Krispy Kreme's unique offerings, including its one-of-a-kind doughnut varieties, signature coffees and espresso drinks, Krispy Kreme Chillers® and iced beverages. The new Neighborhood Shop will also be the second store in Wake County to offer Krispy Kreme's Kool Kreme soft serve menu. Offered in Very Vanilla and Deep Chocolate, Kool Kreme soft serve is available in traditional cones, shakes and sundaes, all paired with a toppings bar.

"We are thrilled to be expanding our presence in the Triangle and excited to be a part of the thriving development underway in downtown Raleigh, especially the new City Plaza," said Cindy Bay, senior vice president of company store operations for Krispy Kreme. "We recently opened a Neighborhood Shop in Knightdale, and are excited to continue building our relationship with the Raleigh community at our newest location."

A ribbon cutting ceremony on October 23, at 12:40 p.m., will feature Krispy Kreme executives, including Cindy Bay, senior vice president of company store operations; Steve Wymer, market manager for North Carolina and the City of Raleigh officials.

Additionally, a Coffee and Kreme social will be held at the shop on Wednesday, October 28, from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Customers will get the chance to sample Krispy Kreme's specialty products.

The downtown Raleigh Krispy Kreme Neighborhood Shop is located at 442 Fayetteville Street in the City Plaza, with hours of operation from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday through Saturday.

For updates on special promotions, exclusive offers and local events, join "Friends of Krispy Kreme" by visiting www.KrispyKreme.com.

About Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme is an international retailer of premium-quality sweet treats, including its signature hot Original Glazed® doughnut. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C., the company has offered the highest-quality doughnuts and great-tasting coffee since it was founded in 1937. Krispy Kreme is proud of its Fundraising program, which for decades has helped non-profit organizations raise millions of dollars in needed funds. Today, Krispy Kreme can be found in approximately 530 locations around the world. Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc. (NYSE: KKD) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Visit us at www.KrispyKreme.com

SOURCE Krispy Kreme

The bakers of Mrs. Freshley's, the award-winning snack cake and pastry brand, invite Facebook fans to nominate people in its nationwide "Who is Mrs. Freshley's" search. Consumers are asked to define the characteristics of the brand by suggesting who is the "Mrs. Freshley" in their lives.

Mrs. Freshley may be a grandmother who always has fresh baked goods ready for visitors or a 20-something mom whose baking skills are loved and admired among friends. Whoever she is, it's certain that she'll have a dash of sweetness, pinch of charm, and a little bit of spice.

"Since its introduction in 1994, Mrs. Freshley's has never had a person or character associated with the brand. Through the years, our customers have had a direct hand in shaping our products so asking them to help define the personality behind the brand makes sense," says Brent Bradshaw, Flowers Foods' brand manager. "We are excited to have consumers search for Mrs. Freshley and we can't wait to see the nominations."

Mrs. Freshley's is known for fresh, great-tasting snacks. Consumer demand for new treats has spurred the creation of more than 50 different snack cakes and pastries, including favorites such as Honey Buns, Fudge Brownies, and Swiss Rolls.

To submit nominations, consumers visit www.Facebook.com/MrsFreshleys to upload photos and write brief descriptions of why they believe their nominees are the real Mrs. Freshley. One nomination per person is allowed. Entries for the "Who is Mrs. Freshley's" campaign can be submitted starting Oct. 21, 2009 and must be received by 11:59 p.m., Nov. 9, 2009 via Mrs. Freshley's Facebook page. Winners will be notified Nov. 16, 2009.

The winner will receive a $1,500 American Express gift card, be posted on www.MrsFreshleys.com and may be used in future merchandising. The individual who nominates the winner of the contest will receive a $500 American Express gift card. For complete rules and regulations please visit: www.Facebook.com/MrsFreshleys.

About Mrs. Freshley's

Mrs. Freshley's is an award-winning brand synonymous with freshness. Mrs. Freshley's snack cakes are available in single-serve and multi-serve packages in supermarkets, convenience stores, and vending machines across the country. To learn more about Mrs. Freshley's snack cakes, visit www.mrsfreshleys.com or call (866) FLSNACK.

About Flowers Bakeries and Flowers Foods

Flowers Bakeries, a super-regional baker of fresh breads, rolls, and snack cakes, is an operating unit of Flowers Foods (NYSE: FLO). Headquartered in Thomasville, Ga., Flowers Foods is one of the nation's leading producers and marketers of packaged bakery foods for retail and foodservice customers with annual sales of over $2.4 billion. Flowers operates 39 bakeries that encompasses the southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southwest as well as select markets in California and Nevada, and nationwide through other delivery systems. Among the company's top brands are Nature's Own, Whitewheat, Cobblestone Mill, Blue Bird and Mrs. Freshley's. For more information, visit www.flowersfoods.com.

SOURCE Mrs. Freshley's

In a teleconference call with the news media Friday morning, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack highlighted the administration's priorities for the upcoming Child Nutrition Reauthorization, including opportunities to make progress on childhood hunger.

"President Obama has committed to ending child hunger by 2015. Secretary Vilsack has been charged with making that goal a reality, and the strategies he discussed today will put us on the right track," said Rev. David Beckmann, president of Bread for the World. "Bread for the World shares many of the same priorities discussed today for improving access to child nutrition programs. We will work with Secretary Vilsack to strengthen these programs so that no child in America goes to bed hungry."

Among the administration's priorities, Sec. Vilsack specifically addressed the need to improve children's access to meals over the school summer break. He highlighted a provision included in the agriculture appropriations bill signed by the president on Wednesday that would study new methods of providing children with food in the summer.

"Child nutrition programs provide an immediate and direct way to reduce child hunger and improve health and educational outcomes. Yet these programs could do far more to reduce hunger simply by reaching more eligible kids," Rev. Beckmann said. "We applaud the administration's focus on improving program access and participation for eligible children so that more hungry children get the food they need."

Of the more than 18 million children receiving free or reduced-price lunches each school day, only 12 percent participate in summer food programs. "Improving access to food assistance in the summer is a top priority if we are to end child hunger," said Rev. Beckmann.

He added that another priority highlighted by Sec. Vilsack is strengthening direct certification provisions that automatically enroll eligible children in school meal programs. "The administration and Secretary Vilsack are taking the right approach by exploring such new and innovative strategies."

Earlier this week, Sec. Vilsack appeared at the White House with First Lady Michelle Obama at a "Healthy Kids Fair" focused on healthy eating and good nutrition for children, and Rev. Beckmann attended.

Bread for the World lists its priorities for child nutrition reauthorization on its website, at http://www.bread.org/learn/child-nutrition/legislative-priorities.html

Bread for the World is a collective Christian voice urging our nation's decision makers to end hunger at home and abroad.

SOURCE Bread for the World

International Bazaar Inc. a Dayton, Ohio firm is voluntarily recalling a single lot of "Kroger Hazelnut Spread", packed in Italy by Nutkao S.r.L. The product has a March 2011 sell by date, is packaged in a plastic jar, contains 13 ounces of product and has a the UPC code 11110-87825. Consumers who have an allergy to peanuts may run the risk of a serious allergic reaction if they consume product containing such ingredients.

The recall applies only to the "Kroger Hazelnut Spread" with a "Sell By March 2011" date code. Approximately 65 cases were distributed to Kroger stores in as many as 16 states (Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia).

Nutkao received a complaint from 2 consumers in France that had an allergic reaction after consuming product from the same batch that was distributed under a different label. Testing revealed the product was found to contain trace amounts of peanuts. The Company has not received any reports of illness or allergic reactions caused by consuming Kroger Hazelnut Spread and has issued this recall as a precautionary measure. Consumers who are not allergic to peanuts face no safety risk.

Consumers who have purchased Kroger Hazelnut Spread with a sell by date of March 2011 may return it to any Kroger store for a refund. Consumers with questions may contact Jim Uryga at 937278-3533 ext 102 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday.

SOURCE International Bazaar Inc.

Just launched, naumesfruitgifts.com is a new, socially responsible gift giving solution that delivers delicious pear gift boxes to family and friends, and a matching donation of fresh fruit to food banks that feed hungry families.

The first of its kind, the Donate Fruit program represents a growing demand for quality gifts that give back.

"Sharing a gift that has also made an important difference in the life of another makes it even more special," said Laura Naumes, Vice President of Naumes. "Our signature fruit gift box lets gift recipients know that their premium fruit gift has been matched pound for pound with a donation to those in need."

Addressing hunger in America is especially critical in today's economic climate, in which one in eight Americans are affected. Fresh fruit is a vital component of food donated to hungry families who too often rely on processed foods that can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Naumes Inc. is one of the largest family owned and operated pear growers in the world and has been donating fresh fruit for generations. They have been the major pear grower working with Feeding America, donating almost 10 million pounds of pears over the past seven years.

The launch of naumesfruitgifts.com allows the family to offer its premium fruit directly to consumers for the first time and to expand their charitable contributions.

"We take pride in offering a quality and nutritious gift option," said Mike Naumes, President of Naumes, Inc. "We lost our first orchard in the Great Depression so we understand firsthand the importance of doing our part to help others in need."

Naumes handpicked gourmet pears are available in a variety of gift boxes and are available online for $29.95. Standard shipping is free.

The service is available to anyone in the U.S. at naumesfruitgifts.com. Business customers may also call TOLL FREE at 1-877-740-PEAR (7327).

About Naumes

More than 100 years ago, the Naumes family began growing fruit in Oregon. Over three generations, we have expanded our farming along the west coast into California and Washington where we grow, harvest and sell our fruit to major retailers nationwide. As stewards of the land, we are proud to be one of the largest grower of pears in the country. Our newest venture, an online store at naumesfruitgifts.com, grew from our family's desire to bring the highest quality fruit directly from our farm to your family's table. We grow every piece of fruit in our fruit gifts on our own farms and harvest every piece of premium fruit by hand, assuring our customers receive the very best that nature has to offer. Now, with every fruit gift purchased, our family will donate an equal amount of fresh fruit -- pound for pound -- to food banks that feed hungry families.

SOURCE Naumes

For the 2009 holiday season, Robin Hood, the non-profit organization committed to fighting poverty in New York City and FreshDirect, one of the nation's leading online gourmet food providers and grocery delivery services, are coming together to help feed 120,000 New Yorkers in need. A $50 donation made via www.FreshDirect.com/RobinHood will feed a family of eight with a turkey dinner and all the fixings, delivered by FreshDirect to community organizations funded by Robin Hood throughout the five boroughs.

"Every year as the holidays approach, many New Yorkers worry about making ends meet - and that's especially true this year," says Mayor Michael Bloomberg. "That's why partnerships like the one between Robin Hood and FreshDirect, which will help many more New Yorkers enjoy a nutritious holiday meal, play such a vital role. As much as we're doing in City government to help New Yorkers through these tough times, we can't do it alone - and I applaud Robin Hood and FreshDirect for their initiative."

More than 1.3 million people rely on emergency food in New York City. Soup kitchens and food pantries, more than 1,000 of which are supplied thanks to Robin Hood's grant to the Food Bank For New York City, help families get by when the budget is tight. Demand at these sites is up by 25 percent during the recession.

"Robin Hood's network of poverty-fighting organizations spans all five boroughs," says David Saltzman, executive director of Robin Hood. "Combine that with FreshDirect's food delivery expertise, and you get an incredibly powerful way to distribute holiday meals that will fill and nourish a great many of our neighbors who need some help during these tough economic times."

For each $50 donation, a family in need at one of the many Robin Hood-funded organizations, such as community centers and food pantries, will receive a holiday meal for eight, fulfilled and delivered by FreshDirect.

"Poverty is a serious issue in New York and we are proud to join the fight against hunger and hope our customers will do the same," said Rick Braddock, CEO of FreshDirect. "It is a true privilege to work with Robin Hood to provide food for our less fortunate neighbors. We are thankful for this opportunity and look forward to feeding 120,000 New Yorkers in need this holiday season."

To contribute to this worthy cause, visit www.FreshDirect.com/RobinHood.

New Yorkers can also join our cause or follow our campaign via Facebook (www.facebook.com/robinhood) or Twitter (http://twitter.com/RobinHoodNYC).

About Robin Hood

For more than 20 years, Robin Hood has fought poverty in New York City by finding, funding and partnering with the schools and programs most effective at creating a measurable impact for families in poor neighborhoods. The board pays all administrative, fundraising and evaluation costs, so 100 percent of donations ($1 billion to date) goes directly to helping New Yorkers in need to build better lives. Staff works closely with the 200 grantees to help them reach capacity and maximize outcomes. A rigorous system of metrics and third-party evaluation of these groups guarantee accountability.

About FreshDirect

FreshDirect is one of the nation's leading online food brands and grocery providers, known for its convenient home delivery service and the manufacture of fresh, delicious food. Changing the way customers shop for groceries since 2002, the company uses a direct distribution model with in-house, overnight production that cuts out the middleman and helps FreshDirect offer farm-fresh food at prices up to 20% lower than conventional grocery stores. Every product is 100% satisfactory guaranteed, every time. Thanks to expert daily ratings, FreshDirect customers can easily shop for best of the season in produce and seafood. Only at FreshDirect, the online shopping experience is highly personalized with smart shopping features that help customers track their favorites, remember missed items, shop from previous orders and get recommendations on new foods they might like. FreshDirect has also teamed up with top New York City chefs and restaurants to bring customers quick, restaurant-quality prepared meals, unavailable anywhere else. FreshDirect has fulfilled more than ten million orders to date. Its ever-expanding service area includes most of Manhattan, locations in Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island and the Bronx, as well as parts of New Jersey, Westchester and Nassau County. FreshDirect ranks 62 on Internet Retailers America's Top 500 guide. For more information, visit www.freshdirect.com.

    Contacts:
    Jennifer Kuhl                        Marianne Macrae
    Peppercom for FreshDirect            Robin Hood
    (212) 931-6111                       (212) 844-3500
    freshdirect@peppercom.com            macrae@robinhood.org

SOURCE FreshDirect; Robin Hood

Qualsec (OTC Bulletin Board: QLSZ), which recently acquired VitaminSpice, LLC, announces that VitaminSpice was selected as the winning product line in the "Spice Blends, Vitamin Infused" category for foodservice and retail. Their "Garlic Multivitamin," "Cinnamon Multivitamin," "Crushed Red Pepper Multivitamin" and their "Ground Black Pepper Multivitamin" were all judged Superior. The judging was conducted "triple blind" in Northern California by a panel of Chef Masters of Taste. The Chef du Jury was famed Maitre du Gout (Master of Taste) Jesse Sartain.

"We commend the culinary commitment of the staff of VitaminSpice Products for the excellence and innovation of their product line. We applaud them," commented Jesse Sartain.

The protocols of "triple blind" judging include the following ground rules to ensure accurate and fair judging results. Evaluators do not know the identity of the manufacturer, the product variety or appellation, nor the scores and comments of the other evaluators. The judging was a part of the ongoing World Taste Championships founded in 1989 with the establishment of the Chefs In America Awards Foundation, whose professional Board Members gather weekly to conduct taste tests on a myriad of foodservice and retail grocery products.

VitaminSpice was declared a World Taste Champion. "We are extremely proud to have our products be recognized by American Masters of Taste," stated Edward Bukstel, CEO, VitaminSpice.

For further information regarding the Masters of Taste designation, contact the California headquarters of the American Masters of Taste(TM) at (800)728-4007. American Masters of Taste is a registered trademark of the American Masters of Taste and its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

VitaminSpice is uniquely positioned between the $100 billion health food/vitamin supplement industry and the multi-trillion-dollar traditional food industry. A pioneer in the emerging foodceutical industry, VitaminSpice sells vitamin- mineral- and antioxidant-infused spices and food products. Their offerings currently include Crushed Red Pepper, Ground Black Pepper, Sea Salt, Italian Seasoning, Ground Cinnamon and Granulated Garlic. A proprietary micro-encapsulation process keeps the vitamin properties locked inside--even when heated--allowing the food products to retain their full flavor.

For additional news and information on VitaminSpice, contact Doug Wetzel, at (308) 385-4991 or visit VitaminSpice.net.

This News Release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove correct.

SOURCE Qualsec

The nonprofit Center for Consumer Freedom (CCF) is warning consumers and the media that a lawsuit expected to be filed in Hartford, CT, today is an animal rights initiative in disguise. The deceptive "Cancer Project," a radical animal rights organization with ties to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), will seek cancer-warning signs in three restaurant chains that serve well-done grilled and barbecued chicken. The lawsuit concerns tiny traces of "PhIP," a chemical repeatedly shown in scientific studies to pose no cancer risk to humans.

The Cancer Project is a branch of the similarly misnamed "Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine" (PCRM), which admits that less than four percent of its members have graduated from medical school. PCRM's role at the center of the animal rights movement has been exposed in Newsweek and The New York Times. The group derives more than two-thirds of its budget from Nanci Alexander, the wealthy founder of the Animal Rights Foundation of Florida. PETA has steered an additional $1.3 million to the organization.

"This so-called Cancer Project is just an animal-rights vehicle created to spread fear about perfectly safe food that's not PETA-approved," said David Martosko, CCF's Director of Research.

In 2008 the California Attorney General's office filed a formal objection to a similar case brought by PCRM, writing that warning labels on chicken "would not be in the public interest." This is because even though traces of some chemicals may be created in the process of cooking chicken, that same process also kills harmful bacteria, having "the net effect of making the food safer to eat."

During a March 2007 legal conference in San Francisco, Cancer Project General Counsel Dan Kinburn described his plan to sue "virtually every restaurant in the state of California that is not serving an all-vegetarian diet."

Martosko continued, "This phony Cancer Project has become a real cancer, and it's cynically using the courts to frighten people about their dinners for no good reason at all. The save-the-chickens agenda has no place in a serious national discussion about food and health."

For further information or to arrange an interview please call Allison Miller at 202-463-7112.

The Center for Consumer Freedom is a nonprofit coalition supported by restaurants, food companies, and consumers, working together to promote personal responsibility and protect consumer choices.

Media Contact: Allison Miller -- (202) 463-7112

SOURCE Center for Consumer Freedom

At 6:14pm yesterday, Debora Gore of Bristow, Virginia, received a phone call from renowned physician, author, and weight-loss expert Dr. Sanford Siegal who was calling to congratulate her on becoming the 100,000th registered member of CookieDiet.com, the official Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET® web site. Dr. Siegal thanked her for joining and told her that he was sending her a three-month supply of his famous cookies and an autographed copy of his new book, Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet Book: How a Doctor and His Cookie Helped 500,000 People Lose Weight Fast (2009, Hyde Park Publishing Ltd., 320 pages, ISBN 978-0-9822728-3-19999).

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091021/FL96056)

"Registering our 100,000th CookieDiet.com member is an exciting milestone," said Matthew Siegal, president and CEO of Dr. Siegal's Direct Nutritionals, LLC, which operates CookieDiet.com. "More than 85 percent of our members indicate that they heard about us from a friend, relative, or co-worker so we know we're doing something right."

Last Friday, Google Trends reported that, on that day, more people searched for information related to Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET® than for the "balloon boy hoax" story.

The initial version of the web site, which was then hosted at CookieDietOnline.com, was primarily an online store. The current version, which was launched in December 2008 with the shorter URL, CookieDiet.com, introduced numerous robust features intended to educate customers before and during the weight-loss and weight-maintenance phases of their diets.

The site's Resources section features Dr. Siegal's® Weight Loss Calculators, a proprietary software suite personally designed by Dr. Siegal. His calculators eliminate the uncertainty inherent in most diets by aiding the user in setting and reaching a realistic goal weight by a specified date. Dr. Siegal's® Weight Loss Calculators are intended to be helpful to any dieter regardless of the particular diet they follow.

"In my practice, patients come to us with a definite goal in mind and frequently it's to look good for an upcoming event such as a wedding, vacation, or reunion," said Dr. Siegal. "I designed my weight loss calculators using proprietary algorithms to estimate - based on the dieter's own calorie burn rate - how many calories she would have to consume each day in order to reach her desired weight by the date of her big occasion."

Dr. Siegal added that his calculators incorporate safeguards to ensure that they don't return unrealistic or unhealthy results.

"The last thing anyone needs is another failed attempt to lose weight. If your goal is unrealistic my calculators will say so," added Dr. Siegal.

As a condition for membership, CookieDiet.com requires users to agree to consult their doctor before starting any diet.

Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET® is perpetually in the news. Recent features include:

ABC's Good Morning America

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9fuI9yzx4o

The Miami Herald

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/breaking-news/story/1281450.html

Orange County Register

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/diet-weight-cookies-2305502-hunger-loss

ABOUT DR. SIEGAL'S COOKIE DIET®

Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET® is a profitable, 100% debt-free, family-owned business comprising several companies with corporate locations in the Miami, Florida, and Washington, DC, metro areas. Under license from Dr. Siegal's SM Licensing Corporation, Dr. Siegal's Direct Nutritionals, LLC operates the web site CookieDiet.com (100,000 members) and distributes products directly to consumers and over 800 retailers.

    MEDIA INQUIRIES:
    Dr. Siegal's Cookie Diet (CookieDiet.com)
    877-377-4342 (US)
    703-677-8068 (Elsewhere)

SOURCE Dr. Siegal's COOKIE DIET (CookieDiet.com)

"It's the economy, stupid!" Never have those words rang truer than now. The instability of the economic climate has affected Americans in countless ways, including in the kitchen. Early on in the economic downturn, it became apparent that Americans were headed back into the kitchen, cooking more meals at home to cut spending. But as the economy stabilizes, how will Americans' cooking habits re-adjust? Despite early indications that the recession may be easing, a recent national survey* by McIlhenny Company, maker of Tabasco® sauce, reveals that Americans are remaining in the kitchen.

When asked how their eating habits have changed since the recession began, more than half of Americans (56%) say the recession has motivated them to cook more of their meals at home. During a typical week, the majority of Americans (83%) report cooking dinner at home four to seven times a week.

It seems as though cooking at home is less of a trend, and becoming more of a lifestyle change, as 90% of Americans say that they will still cook at home as frequently as they do now once the economy bounces back.

And it's not just baby boomers cooking at home. More so than any other generation, 18-24 year- old Americans have been motivated by the recession to cook more at home. Nearly three quarters of 18-24 year-olds (67%) feel this way, compared to roughly half (54%) of Americans ages 25 and older.

And these young home-cooks, in particular, are keeping the food flavorful with hot sauce, like Tabasco sauce, at the top of their ingredient list. Two in five (37%) 18-24 year-olds consider hot sauce one of the top three essential ingredients when it comes to home cooking.

Cooking at home has also motivated Americans to experiment with new flavors and cuisines, breaking up the monotony and making cooking at home more exciting. Not surprisingly, young cooks are most likely to experiment in the kitchen. Almost three quarters (62%) of Americans 18-24 years old say that they've been more willing to experiment with new cuisines and unfamiliar tastes this year than last year. The top three cuisines these young cooks have experimented with are Mexican (36%), Chinese (28%) and Cajun/Creole (24%).

Throughout the course of American history, economic recessions and depressions have come and gone, and with them, a general increase in comfort food consumption. In fact, in 2009, over a quarter of Americans (26%) attest to eating more pasta, 12% attest to eating more casseroles, and 22% of Americans have used their Crockpot more frequently.

For over 140 years, Tabasco has been enhancing the flavor of all foods, from Bloody Marys, oysters and chili, to soups, casseroles and grilled meats. The iconic brand, and unmatched flavor enhancer, will be there for Americans through this troubling economic time as a comfort food confidant.

For more information about McIlhenny Company, Tabasco sauce and its history, visit www.TABASCO.com.

*The national survey was conducted by Wakefield Research between August 12 and 18, 2009 and included 1,003 participants with a 3.1% margin of error.

The TABASCO® marks, bottle and label designs are registered trademarks and servicemarks exclusively of McIlhenny Company, Avery Island, Louisiana 70513.

http://www.TABASCO.com

TABASCO® Country Store 1-800-634-9599

SOURCE McIlhenny Company

Prevalence of lactose intolerance may be far lower than previously estimated, according to a study in the latest issue of Nutrition Today.(1) The study, which uses data from a national sample of three ethnic groups, reveals that the overall prevalence rate of self-reported lactose intolerance is 12 percent - with 7.72 percent of European Americans, 10.05 percent of Hispanic Americans and 19.5 percent of African Americans who consider themselves lactose intolerant.

These new findings indicate that previous estimates of lactose intolerance incidence - based on the incidence of lactose maldigestion - may be overestimated by wide margins. Previous studies have found lactose maldigestion, or low lactase activity in the gut, to occur in approximately 15 percent of European Americans, 50 percent of Mexican Americans and 80 percent of African Americans.(2,3,4) The new study shows that lactose intolerance, based on self-reported data, may actually occur far less frequently than presumed.

"There's so much confusion surrounding lactose intolerance," said Theresa Nicklas, DrPH, of the USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine and lead study author. "By getting a better handle on the true number of people who deal with this condition every day, the nutrition community can be better equipped to educate and provide dietary guidance for Americans, including strategies to help meet dairy food recommendations for those who self-report lactose intolerance."

Since increasing daily consumption of dairy can be an effective strategy for ensuring adequate intake of shortfall nutrients (such as calcium, magnesium and potassium),(5) those who do experience symptoms of lactose intolerance should know there are several practical solutions that can allow for consumption of milk and milk products. In fact, according to a recent study in the Journal of Sensory Studies, adults who identified themselves as lactose intolerant reported a higher liking of lactose-free cow's milk compared to non-dairy, soy-based substitute beverage.(6)

"Those with lactose intolerance are often relieved to know they can still enjoy the great taste and health benefits of dairy if they follow certain strategies," said Orsolya Palacios, PhD, RD, and lead author of the study. "The symptoms of lactose intolerance vary greatly for each individual, and there are options in the dairy case that allow almost everyone to take advantage of the health benefits provided by the recommended three daily servings of dairy foods."

Recommended Solutions for Incorporating Dairy

Several health authorities have addressed ways that those with lactose intolerance can benefit from dairy's unique nutrient package of nine essential nutrients including calcium, potassium, magnesium and vitamin A, identified as "nutrients of concern" by the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans.(7) The Dietary Guidelines encourages people with lactose intolerance to try lower-lactose dairy food options to ensure they get the essential nutrients found in dairy. In a supplement to the October issue of the Journal of the National Medical Association (JNMA), the National Medical Association states that dairy milk alone provides a key package of essential nutrients, and that African Americans should use dietary strategies to increase the amount of dairy foods they consume. And in a 2006 report, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends children with lactose intolerance still consume dairy foods to help meet calcium, vitamin D, protein and other nutrient needs essential for bone health and overall growth. The report cautions that lactose intolerance should not require avoidance of dairy foods.(8)

The National Dairy Council has identified some strategies to help people with lactose intolerance enjoy the taste and nutrition of dairy:

  • The good news is lactose-free milk is regular milk, just without the lactose.
    • It provides the same unique package of nine essential nutrients as found in the equivalent form of regular milk (reduced-fat, fat-free etc.) - calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins A, D and B12, riboflavin and niacin (niacin equivalents).
  • Try drinking small amounts of milk with meals.
    • Consuming milk with other foods or a meal can make it easier to digest, so try milk on cereal, in smoothies or licuados, and enjoy a glass of milk with lunch or dinner.
  • Try cooking with milk.
    • Make oatmeal with milk instead of water and add milk to soups, sauces, casseroles, etc.
  • Try eating yogurt.
    • Yogurts that contain live and active cultures can make it easier for the digestive system to digest lactose.
  • Try aged cheeses.
    • Aged cheeses like Swiss, Parmesan, Gouda, Colby, provolone, Cheddar, Edam, Fontina, Gruyere, Muenster and Monterey Jack have very little lactose.

For more information, visit www.nationaldairycouncil.org, and get the latest dairy and nutrition news from NDC's blog, www.thedairyreport.com.

National Dairy Council® (NDC) is the nutrition research, education and communications arm of Dairy Management Inc(TM). On behalf of U.S. dairy farmers, NDC provides science-based nutrition information to, and in collaboration with, a variety of stakeholders committed to fostering a healthier society, including health professionals, educators, school nutrition directors, academia, industry, consumers and media. Established in 1915, NDC comprises a staff of nutrition science researchers, registered dietitians and communications experts dedicated to educating the public on the health benefits of consuming milk and milk products throughout a person's lifespan.

In addition, NDC funds independent research to aid in the ongoing discovery of information about dairy foods' important role in a healthy lifestyle. This research provides insights to industry for new dairy product innovation. In partnership with its network of state and regional dairy councils, NDC disseminates nutrition programs, materials and research to support government recommendations for improved nutrition for Americans, including consumption of at least three servings of nutrient-rich low-fat or fat-free milk and milk products a day.

(1) Nicklas TA, Qu H, Hughes SO. Prevalence of self-reported lactose intolerance in a multi-ethnic sample of adults. Nutrition Today 2009; 44(5):186-187

(2) Jarvis JK, Miller GD. Overcoming the barrier of lactose intolerance to reduce health disparities. J Natl Med Assoc 2002; 94:55-56

(3) Sabi T. Hypolactasia and lactase persistence; historical review and terminology. Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. Supplement 1994; 202:1-6

(4) Scrimshaw NS, Murray ED. Prevalence of lactose maldigestion. Am J Clin Nutr 1988; 48:1086-1098

(5) Nicklas TA, O'Neil CE, Fulgoni III VL. The role of dairy in meeting the recommendations for shortfall nutrients in the American diet. J Am Coll Nutr 2009; 28:1S-9S

(6) Palacios OM, Badran J, Drake MA, Reisner M, Moskowitz HR. Consumer acceptance of cow's milk versus soy beverages; impact of ethnicity, lactose tolerance and sensory performance segmentation. Journal of Sensory Studies 2009; 24 (5): 731-748(18)

(7) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005. 6th Edition, Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, January 2005.

(8) American Academy of Pediatrics, Lactose intolerance in infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatrics. 2006; 118 (3):1279-1286

    For more information:
    NDC Media Hotline
    312-240-2880
    ndc@dairyinfo.com

SOURCE National Dairy Council

Travelers seeking an enjoyable experience along their journey have counted on the MICHELIN Guide for its trusted recommendations for the past century. And for the past four years, San Francisco-based MICHELIN Guide inspectors have been dining and rating local restaurants and presenting the highly-anticipated selection in the annual MICHELIN Guide. This under $20 purchase enables readers to choose a wonderful restaurant with confidence, and its fourth edition, the 2010 San Francisco MICHELIN Guide, offers even more tools and knowledge for readers to enjoy.

When the MICHELIN Guide was first introduced, it set out to encourage people to drive, and along the way, enjoy the journey. More than a century later, the MICHELIN Guide continues in the same direction of enhancing mobility, while constantly evolving to stay in tune with the needs of its 1.2 million readers around the world. And meeting those needs requires offering options for various budgets and the pickiest of palates for the Bay Area and Wine Country. Enhancements to the 2010 San Francisco MICHELIN Guide include:

NEW SYMBOLS and CATEGORIES

  • Cheers! Kanpai! or Sante! - no matter how you say it, when offering a toast it's always sweeter when there's a great cocktail, sake or glass of wine in hand. Joining the popular notable wine list symbol are two new symbols that highlight restaurants with a notable cocktail program or sake list.
  • An entirely new classification of restaurants - Small Plates. This category includes a completely new selection of establishments with a unique style of menu, ambiance and service not previously included in any MICHELIN Guide. This category was added to reflect the increasing popularity and quality of establishments with this style.

ENHANCEMENTS and EXPANSIONS

  • The Bib Gourmand category, also known as "Inspectors' Favorites for Good Value," has been embraced by MICHELIN Guide readers for providing a recession-proof dining solution. Featuring restaurants serving a meal (two dishes and a glass of wine or dessert) for $40 or less, the 2010 San Francisco MICHELIN Guide adds 18 new restaurants to this edition, for a total of 62 affordable, yet incredibly delicious dining options. The complete Bib Gourmand selection is available at www.famouslyanonymous.com
  • The fourth edition of the San Francisco MICHELIN Guide also selects 89 restaurants offering a meal under $25 to reflect the current economic climate and resulting dining habits.
  • In response to reader comments, also new this year is the expansion of the East Bay territory to include Walnut Creek, Emeryville and Lafayette.
  • Introductions that celebrate the difference in each of the neighborhoods now include foodie-focused details like local specialty spots, food-related sights and food and wine events for the year.
  • And the stars... this popular category has been re-designed to include longer text and larger photos, giving the MICHELIN Guide 2010 San Francisco readers more insight to these establishments.

"The MICHELIN Guide has long been respected and the stars are what people love to talk about in the culinary world," says Jean-Luc Naret, director of the MICHELIN Guides. "But the Guide is so much more. It's filled with a year's worth of notes from the team of inspectors who set out to ensure the MICHELIN Guide provides an excellent mix of what readers truly want - a wonderful dining recommendation from trusted experts."

Thanks to the rigorous MICHELIN Guide selection process that is applied independently and consistently around the world, the MICHELIN Guide has become an international benchmark in gourmet dining. The selection is made by anonymous, professional inspectors who are Michelin employees and is based on the same working methods in all countries. They pay all their bills in full. To find out more about the MICHELIN Guide inspectors and the history of the MICHELIN Guide, visit www.famouslyanonymous.com.

While the MICHELIN Guide is known around the world for its famous stars, these restaurants account for just ten percent of the selection. With more than 1.2 million copies sold in approximately 100 countries, the MICHELIN Guide has always built its success on the diversity of its selection, especially on small establishments offering a high-quality dining experience at an affordable price. Hence the popularity and importance of the Bib Gourmand or "Inspectors' Favorites for Good Value" category and the Under $25 category - both increased in number of offerings in the 2010 edition. Moreover, inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide is, in itself, synonymous with quality, since only the best establishments in each comfort and price category are featured in the Guide.

Present in North America since late 2005, the MICHELIN Guide New York City 2010 went on sale Tuesday, Oct. 6 at $17.99 and the MICHELIN Guide San Francisco 2010 goes on sale Tuesday, Oct. 20 at $17.99.

Now representing 23 countries and three continents, the collection of 26 MICHELIN Guides includes more than 45,000 addresses. Its team of highly trained inspectors visits establishments anonymously, applying Michelin's international standards for quality across many categories. In North America, MICHELIN Guides for New York City and San Francisco, Bay Area & Wine Country are available. The MICHELIN Guide to Hong Kong and Macao was introduced in December 2008. A new MICHELIN Guide will be launched mid-October in Japan, covering Kyoto and Osaka. For more information, visit www.michelinguide.com.

See below for 2010 MICHELIN Guide listing of starred establishments

NOTE TO EDITORS: HI-RES PHOTOS AND DOWNLOADABLE TEXT AVAILABLE AT www.MichelinMedia.com

              2010 MICHELIN Guide San Francisco Starred Restaurants


Three Michelin stars *** mean exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey

One always eats here extremely well, sometimes superbly. Distinctive dishes are precisely executed, using superlative ingredients.

The French Laundry

Two Michelin stars ** mean excellent cuisine, worth a detour

Skillfully and carefully crafted dishes of outstanding quality

    Coi
    Cyrus
    Manresa
    The Restaurant at Meadowood


One Michelin star* means a very good restaurant in its category

A place offering cuisine prepared to a consistently high standard

    Acquerello                          Luce
    Ame                                 Madrona Manor
    Auberge du Soleil                   Masa's
    Aziza                               Michael Mina
    Bouchon                             Murray Circle
    Boulevard                           One Market
    Chez Panisse                        Plumed Horse
    Chez TJ                             Quince
    Commis                              Range
    The Dining Room at the Ritz Carlton Redd
    El Paseo (now closed)               Sante
    etoile                              Solbar
    Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant          Terra
    Fifth Floor                         Trevese (now closed)
    Fleur de Lys                        Ubuntu
    Gary Danko                          The Village Pub
    La Folie
    La Toque


2010 MICHELIN Guide San Francisco Bib Gourmand Restaurants

Previously released and available at www.FamouslyAnonymous.com

    Angele                                 Le Charm
    Aperto                                 Mamacita
    A 16                                   Marinitas
    BarBersQ                               Market
    Bar Tartine                            Maykadeh
    Bay Wolf                               Mirepoix
    Bellanico                              Monti's Rotisserie
    Betelnut Pejiu Wu                      Nopa
    Border (The)                           Perbacco
    Brown Sugar Kitchen                    Pican
    Burma Superstar                        Risibisi
    Cafe Gibraltar                         rnm
    Camino                                 Sakae
    Cena Luna                              Sakoon
    Chevalier                              Sauce
    Colibri                                Slanted Door (The)
    Cook St. Helena                        Slow Club
    Corso                                  Sociale
    Crouching Tiger                        Tavern at Lark Creek
    Cucina Paradiso                        the girl & the fig
    Delfina                                Tokyo Go Go
    Dosa                                   Tommaso's
    Farina                                 TWO
    FIVE                                   Universal Cafe
    flour + water                          Vanessa's Bistro
    Henry's Hunan                          Willi's Wine Bar
    Hong Kong Flower Lounge                Xanh
    Incanto                                Yank Sing
    Insalata's                             zazu
    Junnoon
    Kitchen (The)
    K & L Bistro
    Kokkari Estiatorio


SOURCE MICHELIN North America

U.S. Foodservice - Fort Mill is among the newest members of the South Carolina Environmental Excellence Program (SCEEP), a voluntary leadership initiative designed to recognize facilities that have demonstrated "superior environmental performance."

The Fort Mill division is the group's 34th member.

"U.S. Foodservice - Fort Mill has demonstrated its commitment to both the environment and the community through diligent efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, conserve water and electricity, limit its waste stream by recycling, and provide organic and locally grown products to its customers," said Myra Carpenter, chairman of SCEEP. "This aggressive, holistic approach is a definite benefit to our state's environment."

Since 2007, a dedicated sustainability team has aggressively sought new ways to reduce energy consumption, eliminate waste, and add recycling programs. These efforts have resulted in a number of innovations that demonstrate the Fort Mill division's commitment to sustainability in three key areas: environment, products and community. This includes:

  • Using strategic route-planning technologies to reduce its fleet's "idle time" by 4.3 percent and raise its fuel efficiency by 1.2 percent, collectively saving 13,000 gallons of fuel in its service area which includes the upstate region of South Carolina as well as the western half of North Carolina.
  • Decreasing water consumption for its facility by 21 percent - or by approximately 1.6 million gallons - between 2007 and 2008.
  • Dramatically reducing its waste stream by strictly monitoring and documenting recycling totals for 29 different items each month. This included more than 118 tons of cardboard, 25 tons of wooden pallets, 17 tons of scrap metal, 65,000 plastic bottles and nearly 3,800 gallons of used motor oil in 2008 alone.
  • Reducing electricity use by 13 percent between 2007 and 2008, a statistic it expects to replicate during 2009. Upgrading warehouse and workspace lighting to high efficiency bulbs, maximizing efficiency of its HVAC system and installing a new roof were among improvements done to achieve these levels.
  • Shrinking its use of shrink wrap by 11 percent - or nearly 100,000 pounds of clear plastic wrap per year - by using large, reusable rubber bands to secure select food products for delivery.

"We will use our SCEEP membership as a resource to continue to improve our performance and serve as an example to other facilities within our company, to our customers and to the industry of what can be achieved through forward thinking and team work," said Dan Harris, president, U.S. Foodservice - Fort Mill.

Additionally, U.S. Foodservice - Fort Mill recently earned Green Business Certification from the Institute for Green Business Certification.

Fort Mill completed a 38-page audit with 220 questions that evaluated the facility's green initiatives across 10 major categories. These include activities ranging from waste reduction to water conservation to reduced emissions.

About U.S. Foodservice

U.S. Foodservice is one of the country's premier foodservice distributors, offering more than 43,000 national, private label and signature brand items and an array of services to its more than 250,000 customers. The company proudly employs 26,000 associates in more than 60 locations nationwide who are poised to serve customers beyond their expectations. As an industry leader, with access to resources beyond the ordinary, U.S. Foodservice provides the finest quality food and related products to neighborhood restaurants, hospitals, schools, colleges and universities, hotels, government entities and other eating establishments. To find out how U.S. Foodservice can be Your partner beyond the plate®, visit the company's website at www.usfoodservice.com.

SOURCE U.S. Foodservice

For the third consecutive year, star wide receiver Roy Williams is teaming up with Pizza Hut to help take a bite out of world hunger. The football great will be at the Pizza Hut on 9550 Dallas Parkway in Frisco from 4 to 6 p.m. today to catch passes thrown by fans in exchange for donations to the World Food Program.

"Too many people in the world go to bed hungry," said Roy Williams. "We can all be team players to help end world hunger, and I'm inviting the great fans of Dallas to join my team to make a difference."

At the "Giving for Receiving" event, Williams will attempt to break the "single season receiving record" in one day with the help of Dallas residents. For a $5 donation, kids ages 12 and younger are invited to throw a pass to Williams and take home a signed mini football. For a $40 donation, adults will be able to show off their best "Hail Mary" pass and receive an autographed regulation sized football. (Only merchandise purchased for donation at event is eligible for Roy Williams' autograph.) Every dollar raised at the event will feed four children in critical need.

"We are thrilled that Roy Williams is on board for the third year to lead the charge for a very worthy cause," said Scott Bergren, Pizza Hut President and Chief Concept Officer. "Pizza Hut's goal this year is to spread the word about what can be done to help feed the hungry and motivate people to take action to help the fight world hunger. The generous support of our customers and guys like Roy help us deliver meals to those in most need through the World Food Program."

During last year's program, Williams challenged three other professional football players to see who could raise the most money for hunger relief at in-restaurant fundraisers. The friendly competition raised more than $15,000 for the World Hunger Relief campaign.

In 2007, Williams raised $10,000 for the World Hunger Relief campaign after delivering pizzas for Pizza Hut in Detroit. The wide receiver publicly commented that he didn't tip pizza delivery drivers as he was unsure of the protocol. Pizza Hut challenged him to walk in the shoes of a driver and Williams graciously obliged raising money for charity in the process.

About World Hunger Relief

World Hunger Relief supports the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) and other hunger relief agencies. More than 36,000 company and franchised restaurants located in more than 110 countries will be participating, including Pizza Hut and other Yum! Brands, KFC, Taco Bell, Long John Silver's, and A&W All-American Food.

Funds raised for WFP go directly to the areas of greatest need, feeding poor school children in the developing world and helping villages become self-sustainable. Yum! Brands' employees and franchisees will be volunteering their time at hunger relief agencies, food banks, soup kitchens and launching fundraisers.

During the 2009 World Hunger Relief campaign, Yum! Brands plan to work towards a pledge made at the Clinton Global Initiative last year. At the Clinton Global Initiative, Yum! Brands pledged to do the following in the coming years: raise and donate at least $80 million to help WFP and others provide 200 million meals for hungry school children in developing countries; donate 20 million hours of hunger relief volunteer service in the communities in which it operates; donate $200 million worth of its prepared food to hunger agencies in the United States; and use the company's marketing clout to generate awareness of the hunger problem while convincing others to become part of the solution.

Yum! Brands has been committed to fighting hunger for more than a decade by donating more than $46 million of prepared food annually to the underprivileged in the United States. Since the company went public in 1997, it has donated more than $550 million of its food to hunger relief agencies in the U.S.

About Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut, America's Favorite Pizza delivers more pizza, pasta and wings than any other restaurant. The only pizza company to be named a top ten franchise in 2009 by Entrepreneur Magazine, Pizza Hut began 50 years ago in Wichita, Kansas and today operates more than 10,000 restaurants in 100 countries. Pizza Hut, Inc. is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM). To check out what's new at Pizza Hut visit pizzahut.com.

    Media Contact:
    Dan Skinner
    312-396-9706
    dan.skinner@zenogroup.com

SOURCE Pizza Hut

Premium Surge Promotions, a leader in product-based marketing, today announced that Burger King Corp. (NYSE: BKC) has named it the restaurant chain's premiums manufacturing supplier agency of record ("AOR"). Premium Surge is a promotions agency specializing in the design and manufacturing of one-of-a-kind incentive products and has been a premium supplier for Burger King Corp. for more than seven years. Under the new agreement, Premium Surge will have full manufacturing responsibility for 100% of toy premiums and other incentive products for all BURGER KING® restaurants, worldwide.

"We are very pleased and humbled that Burger King Corp. has chosen our company to produce all toy products for BURGER KING® restaurants," said Abdiel Estrella, president and CEO, Premium Surge Promotions. "We look forward to continuing to support the corporation's high quality and safety production standards and practices across all stages of the manufacturing process as well as complementing its compelling brand proposition throughout the world."

The decision to name Premium Surge Promotions a single-source premium supplier will not affect either the location or levels of premium production.

ABOUT PREMIUM SURGE PROMOTIONS

Premium Surge Promotions is a world-class, global, product-based marketing agency specializing in the design and manufacturing of custom products and innovative incentives that create consumer excitement and drive business momentum. Among the company's clients, Premium Surge Promotions is Agency of Record for Burger King, Kellogg's and Procter and Gamble. The organization was founded in 2001 and is a Minority Certified and privately owned company. Premium Surge is headquartered in Chicago with a full scale operation in Hong Kong and an active presence in Florida, California and Mexico. For more information, visit www.premium-surge.com.

ABOUT BURGER KING CORPORATION

The BURGER KING® system operates more than 11,900 restaurants in all 50 states and in 73 countries and U.S. territories worldwide. Approximately 90 percent of BURGER KING® restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees, many of them family-owned operations that have been in business for decades. In 2008, Fortune magazine ranked Burger King Corp. among America's 1,000 largest corporations and Ad Week named it one of the top three industry-changing advertisers within the last three decades. To learn more about Burger King Corp., please visit the company's Web site at www.bk.com.

SOURCE Premium Surge Promotions

Christie Cookies (www.christiecookies.com) today announced the 12 winning charities in its $25,000 Charity Giveaway, with the top prize of $10,000 going to the National Inclusion Project, co-founded by Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel.

The check was presented Saturday night at the National Inclusion Project's Champions Gala in Raleigh, N.C. Aiken and Bubel accepted the check on behalf of the organization, which is dedicated to inclusion and empowerment for individuals with disabilities.

"We've been fortunate and wanted to celebrate our 25th anniversary by giving something to nonprofits that help people every day," said Fleming Wilt, president of The Christie Cookie Company. "So we held an online contest to let customers vote for causes they love. We're thrilled that more than 300,000 people visited our website to vote, and we congratulate all the winners."

Bubel said, "It was so wonderful to see our supporters get behind this, get excited and help raise funds for the project."

The second prize of $5,000 went to the Child Advocacy Center of Rutherford County, Tenn., which helps abused and neglected children and their families.

Ten other charities each won a $1,000 check. They are:

  • Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Lenexa, Kan.
  • Young Singers Foundation, Tulsa, Okla.
  • Liz Logelin Foundation, Minnetonka, Minn.
  • Tupelo Children's Mansion, Tupelo, Miss.
  • Coffee County Children's Advocacy Center, Manchester, Tenn.
  • United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, Pittsburgh, Pa.
  • MarineParents.com , Columbia, Mo.
  • Ronald McDonald House, Winston-Salem, N.C .
  • St Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tenn.
  • Kyle David Miller Foundation, Golden, Colo.

"Thanks to everyone who voted," said Wilt. "We know these organizations need support and we are happy to help."

About Christie Cookies

Christie Cookies began in a small apartment kitchen in Nashville and has grown to serve customers and corporations nationwide, normally processing 250 mail orders per hour and 900 per hour during the peak season. Christie Cookies ships 250 mail order boxes daily and as many as 7,500 gift packages daily during peak season. Christie Cookies contain no preservatives and are made using only the finest ingredients, including rich chocolate, fresh macadamia nuts, plump raisins, real butter and Heath toffee. Every batch is mixed by hand and cookies are baked fresh when ordered.

SOURCE Christie Cookies

American Dietetic Association's Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo -- Parents and caregivers are hearing and following the feeding guidance for infants, yet continued work needs to be done to help them also build good eating habits for their growing children, suggests data from the Nestle Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (FITS) released today at a symposium at the American Dietetic Association's Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo.

The study reveals both progress and areas of concern in the diets of young children in the United States. The data show some positive trends versus 2002 when Gerber Products Company, now part of the Nestle family, first commissioned the FITS study. Infants are being breastfed longer; and fewer infants and toddlers are consuming sweets and sweetened beverages on a given day. However, other findings are less positive -- on a given day, many toddlers and preschoolers aren't eating a single serving of vegetables or fruit; and many toddlers and preschoolers are consuming diets with less than the recommended 30-to-40 percent of calories from fat. Most preschoolers are eating too much saturated fat and sodium.

The FITS findings suggest that more guidance and support is needed to help caregivers better transition from feeding their babies to meeting the unique nutrition and feeding needs of a toddler or preschooler. As a result, too many young children are mirroring the often unhealthy eating patterns of American adults.

Leveraging science to nourish a healthier generation

"Good nutrition from birth through preschool sets the foundation for healthy habits later in life," said Dr. Kathleen Reidy, Head, Nutrition Science, Meals & Drinks, Nestle Nutrition. "The Nestle FITS data provide a rich source of information and we'll continue to analyze the data for new insights, sharing and applying our findings to advance the quality of children's diets."

Nestle FITS is a dietary intake survey of a large, cross-sectional sample of parents and caregivers that provides a snapshot of the eating patterns and nutrient intakes on a given day of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers living in the United States. Data were collected for a sample of 3,378 children age zero-to-four years and provided important information on what foods are eaten at various different stages of development as children transition from an all milk diet onto the foods of the family. Nestle FITS 2008 is an updated and expanded survey from FITS 2002 that provided dietary data on a sample of 3,000 infants and toddlers age four-to-24 months.

The 2008 study offers a comparison to 2002 for those children age four-to-24 months, and provides new data and insight into the eating patterns and nutrient intakes of children age zero-to-three months and preschoolers. Mathematica Policy Research, a nonpartisan research firm, conducted the study on behalf of Nestle. Mathematica also conducted the FITS 2002 study.

"Parents and caregivers need support and education around the unique nutrition needs of young children," said Dr. Nancy Butte, PhD. Professor, USDA/ARS Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine. "The 2008 FITS data shows us that more feeding guidance is needed during the transition to table foods. We are seeing eating patterns in toddlers and preschoolers that mirror those of adults--24 percent of children ages two-to-five are overweight or obese in the United States. We need to put more focus on establishing healthy eating patterns during the first four years."

2008 Nestle FITS Study Highlights

  • Fewer infants are consuming sweets or sweetened beverages. Seventeen percent of infants age six-to-eight months, consumed a dessert, sweet or sweetened beverage on a given day versus 36 percent in 2002. A similar change was seen for children age nine-to-11 months old, with 43 percent in 2008 versus 59 percent in 2002 consuming any dessert, sweet or sweetened beverage.
  • Fruit and vegetable consumption remains a problem for all age groups studied. About 25 percent of older infants, toddlers and preschoolers don't eat a single serving of fruit on a given day, and 30 percent don't eat a single serving of vegetables. These findings are similar to those in FITS 2002 for infants and toddlers.
  • Fewer toddlers were consuming sweetened beverages in 2008 than in 2002. This was especially true among children age 12-to-14 months (14 percent drank a sweetened beverage on a given day in 2008 versus 29 percent in 2002) and children 18-to-20 months (29 percent in 2008 versus 47 percent in 2002).
  • On a given day 23 percent of toddlers 12-to-24 months and one third of preschoolers are consuming diets of less than the recommended 30-to-40 percent of calories from fat. Yet, 75 percent of preschoolers are consuming too much saturated fat.
  • Mothers are breastfeeding their children longer. In 2008, 33 percent of nine-to-11 month olds are still receiving breast milk compared to just 21 percent in 2002.

Other survey findings

  • French fries are still the most popular vegetable among toddlers and preschoolers. However, among older babies there were improvements, and French fries are no longer ranked in the top five vegetables among infants age nine-to-11 months, compared to FITS 2002, when French fries ranked among the top vegetables in the diets of older infants on a given day.
  • There is a significant reduction in the number of infants, age four-to-11 months, consuming juice on a given day, versus 2002.
  • A small but important number of older infants are not getting enough iron. Twelve percent of children from six-to-11 months of age are not getting enough iron on a given day.
  • Seventy-one percent of toddlers and eighty-four percent of preschoolers consume more sodium than recommended on a given day.

A dietary snapshot by developmental stage

The Nestle FITS 2008 findings provide insight into the diets of children at key developmental stages--infants, toddlers and preschoolers. The good news is that caregivers are hearing and following the feeding guidance for infants, yet FITS 2008 shows that more progress is needed in the diets of toddlers and preschoolers. Compared to FITS 2002, the number of months children breastfeed is longer, which builds the child's immunity, aids a growing baby's brain and eye development, and may help to lower the child's risk of developing allergies and infections. What's more, the introduction of juice is being delayed for infants, and fewer are consuming French fries, sweetened beverages and sweets on a given day. While FITS 2008 shows positive trends in the diets of infants, the data reveal that some older infants have low intakes of iron and consumption of iron-fortified infant cereal is being stopped earlier.

As infants grow into toddlers, it is clear from the FITS 2008 findings that more nutrition guidance for parents is needed for this important developmental stage. Overall, on a given day, toddlers are meeting most of their nutrient requirements for healthy growth and development, however, FITS data show gaps in the intake of vegetables, fruit, fiber, vitamin E, potassium and total fat. The data reflect promising downward trends among toddlers in the consumption of French fries, sweets and sweetened beverages, but more improvement is needed.

FITS 2008 provides a first-of-its-kind nutrition snapshot of preschoolers (children ages 24-to-48 months). The findings show that on a given day, many preschoolers have unhealthy eating patterns reflective of the diets of older children and adults in the United States. In particular, preschoolers are not consuming enough fruits and vegetables, fiber, potassium and vitamin E and are taking in too much saturated fat and sodium.

Help for parents: Start Healthy, Stay Healthy((TM))( )

FITS 2002 was the foundation of the Start Healthy, Stay Healthy(TM) nutrition system, Nestle's patent-pending stage-based nutrition system that combines products, education and services to foster healthy growth and development and the early establishment of healthy eating habits from birth to preschool. Start Healthy, Stay Healthy Milestones Symbols(TM) direct parents to the information and products tailored to their child's developmental stage. The insights from FITS, along with dietary recommendations from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the National Academy of Sciences/Institute of Medicine (NAS/ IOM) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) are the foundation of the Start Healthy, Stay Healthy feeding guidelines and resources(1).

About Nestle

Nestle Nutrition, part of Nestle S.A., the world leader in nutrition, health and wellness is dedicated to infant nutrition, healthcare nutrition, performance nutrition and weight management. Gerber Products Company, founded in 1928, officially joined the Nestle family on September 1, 2007. Nestle and Gerber's combined resources and scientific research expertise have enabled the company to become a worldwide leader in early childhood nutrition. For consumer information about Nestle Infant Nutrition products in the United States visit www.StartHealthyStayHealthy.com.

The Nestle Nutrition Institute is a multidisciplinary educational organization dedicated to the science of healthy nutrition for people of all ages. The Institute provides information, guidance and support to bridge the latest scientific discoveries and their application to achieving optimal nutrition. For more information about Nestle Nutrition Institute visit www.nestlenutrition-institute.org.

For more information about Nestle visit www.nestle.com.

About Mathematica

Mathematica, a nonpartisan research firm, provides a full range of research and data collection services, including program evaluation and policy research, survey design and data collection, research methods and standards, and program management/data system support, to improve public well-being. Its clients include federal and state governments, foundations, and private-sector and international organizations. The employee-owned company, with offices in Princeton, N.J., Ann Arbor, Mich., Cambridge, Mass., Chicago, Ill., Oakland, Calif., and Washington, D.C., has conducted some of the most important studies of healthcare, education, family support, employment, nutrition, and early childhood policies and programs.

1. Not sponsored or endorsed by the USDA, NAS/IOM or AAP

    Contact:
    Emily Korns                                  Jessica Tolliver
    Nestle Infant Nutrition                      Carmichael Lynch Spong
    Office: (973) 593-7421                       Office : (212) 414-7124
    Mobile: (201) 259-3743                       Mobile : (917) 373-8067
    emily.korns@us.nestle.com                    jessica.tolliver@clynch.com

    David Mortazavi                              Brad Ferris
    Nestle Infant Nutrition                      Carmichael Lynch Spong
    Office: (973) 593-7460                       Office: (212) 414-7032
    Mobile: (646) 326-3926                       Mobile: (917) 318-7730
    david.mortazavi@us.nestle.com                brad.ferris@clynch.com

SOURCE Nestle

Today, Easter Seals announced the appointment of Friendly Ice Cream Corp. (FICC) CEO and Massachusetts resident Ned Lidvall, to its international board of directors, during the organization's annual convention in Washington, D.C.

"Ned is dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with disabilities and their families," said James E. Williams, Jr., president and chief executive officer, Easter Seals. "His executive experience in leadership training and management will be a valuable asset for our organization. And, his support of Friendly's annual Cones for Kids fundraiser for Easter Seals is remarkable."

Lidvall was named President and CEO of Friendly's in December of 2008. Prior to joining the Friendly's team, he was President/CEO of Rock Bottom Restaurants from 1999 to 2008 -- and served as EVP/COO from 1995 to 1999. Lidvall also served as President/COO of Brinker International's On the Border Cafes, Vice President of Food & Beverage/Purchasing for Chi-Chi's Mexican Restaurants, and partner/owner and VP of Operations at Western Sizzlin, Inc.

"Friendly's recognizes the importance of giving back to the community and we are proud of our partnership with Easter Seals. Our goal is to raise $1 million for children and adults with autism and other disabilities through Easter Seals next year," said Lidvall. "I look forward to serving in a governing role with Easter Seals."

Lidvall is a graduate of the University of Kentucky where he attended on an athletic scholarship as a 4-year starter on the football team. He lives in Wilbraham, Mass., with his wife Melody.

An Easter Seals partner for 28 years, Friendly's directs proceeds from its annual Cones for Kids fundraiser to Easter Seals Camp Friendly's, which makes it possible for kids with disabilities to enjoy summer camp programs. To date, Friendly's has raised more than $25.8 million to support Easter Seals services and Camp Friendly's locations.

About Friendly Ice Cream Corporation

Friendly Ice Cream Corporation is a vertically integrated restaurant company serving signature sandwiches, entrees and ice cream desserts in a friendly, family environment in more than 500 company and franchised restaurants throughout the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions. The company also manufactures ice cream, which is distributed through more than 4,000 supermarkets and other retail locations. With a 74-year operating history, Friendly's enjoys strong brand recognition and is currently revitalizing its restaurants and introducing new products to grow its customer base. Additional information on Friendly Ice Cream Corporation can be found at http://www.friendlys.com/.

About Easter Seals

Easter Seals is the leading non-profit provider of services for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, physical disabilities and other special needs. For nearly 90 years, we have been offering help and hope to children and adults living with disabilities, and to the families who love them. Through therapy, training, education and support services, Easter Seals creates life-changing solutions so that people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play. Support children and adults with disabilities at www.easterseals.com.

SOURCE Easter Seals

Early nutrition is critical to establishing a foundation for lifelong growth, health and well-being. With that, Mead Johnson, the maker of Enfamil® infant formula, is introducing the first-of-its-kind collection of data that showcases the critical role nutrition from all sources plays in babies' development during the first year of life.

This state-of-the-art data collection, gathered from leading health centers and researchers across the country, is used to take the audience on a visual journey through the many aspects of infant development, including the impact of nutrition on the eyes, brain and immune system.

What:

Modern Moms Meet Modern Science panel discussion

When:

Monday, October 19, 2009, 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. EDT

Where:

http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=62458

How:

Live over the Internet - Simply log on to the web at the address above.

Minimum requirements to listen to broadcast:

The Windows Media Player software, downloadable free from

http://www.microsoft.com and at least a 56Kbps connection to the Internet.

If you experience problems listening to the webcast, send an E-mail to: webcast@multivu.com.

SOURCE Mead Johnson Nutrition

Golden Dragon Holdings, Inc. (Other OTC: GDHI) www.gdfbhk.com CEO Frank Yglesias will present an overview of Golden Dragon Holdings, Inc. 3rd quarter operations. In addition to providing a company video update, the presentation will also talk about the future of Golden Dragon in China and the emerging food and beverage niches in this sector.

For more information about the video conference, please go to:

http://www.gdfbhk.com/investors.html

About Golden Dragon Holdings, Inc.

Golden Dragon Holdings, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: GDHI) is a publicly traded company that owns and operates Golden Dragon Food & Beverage Import & Export Company of Hong Kong, Ltd. (GDHK) in central Hong Kong and Beijing Flying Golden Dragon International Trading Co., Ltd in China (BFGD). Golden Dragon Holdings, Inc. has agreements with U.S. food manufacturers. GDHI acts as a buying agent for GDHK, negotiating vendor contracts and services with U.S. food and beverage industry partners. The Hong Kong Company plays a strategic role in the importation of products into the Chinese market by leveraging the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) with China. Through this arrangement, Beijing Flying Golden Dragon International Trading Co., Ltd distributes some of the most popular U.S. food and beverage brand products directly into the hypermarkets, supermarkets and convenience stores in China. The Company is responsible for order fulfillment for its clients in China, as well as providing advertising and promotion (A&P) services for its U.S. food and beverage products.

Safe Harbor Statement

Information in this press release may contain 'forward-looking statements.' Statements describing objectives or goals or the Company's future plans are also forward-looking statements and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the financial performance of the Company and market valuations of its stock, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements in this news release are made pursuant to the 'Safe Harbor' provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

SOURCE Golden Dragon Holdings, Inc.

Benihana Inc., operator of the nation's largest chain of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, today announced the unveiling of delicious new additions to the famed Benihana menu. The new menu offerings are part of the company's Teppanyaki Renewal Program, which will enhance the overall guest dining experience at Benihana locations nationwide.

Available immediately at all 64 company-owned Benihana restaurants across the country, the new menu includes a 12-ounce Imperial Steak; Hibachi Lemon Chicken; an Emperor's Salad with a choice of shrimp, steak or chicken; Spicy Tofu Steak; Colossal Mango Shrimp; the Garden Delight, steamed vegetables prepared using a specialty steamer on the Teppanyaki grill; Spicy Seafood Soup and the Yummi-Taki, a deliciously fresh combination of orange sorbet, fresh fruit, berries and cheesecake tempura bites.

"At a time when many restaurants are cutting corners in an effort to save on costs, we are improving our food quality and variety without any entree price increases," said Richard C. Stockinger, Chief Executive Officer, Benihana Inc. "We are fully committed to offering our guests the very best dining experience."

In addition to providing guests a new selection of menu offerings, Benihana has also put a variety of food enhancements in place. The restaurant has upgraded its tenderloin to USDA Choice, improved its chicken product and enhanced cooking methods to improve flavor. The specification and preparation process of cold water lobster tails and scallops have been modified and the entree shrimp has been dramatically improved with the introduction of colossal shrimp. In order to maximize freshness, all produce is cut on premises, and salads now include Romaine and Iceberg lettuce and grape tomatoes. Additionally, Haagen-Dazs® Ice Cream and Bindi® Sorbet have been added to the menu as the restaurant's premium dessert brands.

Benihana has also revitalized its beverage menu which features new specialty and Sake cocktails, and an enhanced hot Sake menu with items that are currently only found in Japan. The wine program has also been upgraded with the addition of new wines, new glasses and temperature-controlled wine storage.

Other enhancements to the dining experience include table top presentation, steps of service, red linen napkins and standardized dress attire for all Benihana Teppanyaki chefs and restaurant staff. The Company has also begun work at select restaurants on maximizing visibility with signage, including lighting the blue roofs where appropriate, and identifying opportunities for additional seating, particularly at South Florida waterfront locations.

For more information, please visit www.Benihana.com.

About Benihana

Benihana Inc. (Nasdaq: BNHN and BNHNA) is the nation's leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, with 64 Benihana, 25 RA Sushi and nine Haru restaurants. Famous for its entertaining chefs who present and prepare delicious Teppanyaki entrees at hibachi tables, as well as sushi and other Japanese favorites, Benihana introduced Japanese food to America in 1964. RA Sushi offers a subtly sexy and energetic experience with a hip ambience, and Haru is an urban, upscale sushi concept. In addition, twenty-two franchised Benihana restaurants operate in the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean.

SOURCE Benihana Inc.

One Heartland will host "S'more to Love", a cocktail fundraiser on Friday, November 6, 2009 at 7:30 P.M. at Open House Lofts, NYC to benefit Birch Family Camp.

Celebrating its 20th year, the Birch Family Camp brings together 90 families (over 200 family members) from the 5 boroughs of NYC, along with 200 volunteers for a week of respite, therapy, and community building at a camp facility located in the Hudson Valley. Throughout the year this community helps each other connect to needed resources, shares medical information, and supports each other as they disclose their own HIV-status to other family members, including their own children. 100% of their clients are low-income and the program is free-of-charge. This is One Heartland's third summer of operating the program.

"New York continues to be an epicenter of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the U.S. Even today, women and families continue to experience stigma, discrimination, and lack of coordinated services and care. There is still so much to be done in the fight to prevent HIV/AIDS in New York, and the Birch Family Camp program is an effective model addressing the complex issues families face," said Patrick Kindler, Director Program Services, One Heartland.

The fundraiser will include: a cocktail reception, special guests, dancing with DJ Stacey Stylez and great sponsors including SARAR (www.sarar.com), Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), Open House Lofts (www.openhouselofts.com), Paul Neuman Catering (www.caterernyc.com), CEG Management (www.ceg.com), For The Perfect Day! Events (www.fortheperfectday.com), Loft The World Productions (201.954.0834) and many others.

Tickets are $100 for general admission and can be purchased at www.oneheartland.org. For corporate sponsorship or tickets, please contact Alexandra Boardley at fortheperfectday@gmail.com.

For press inquiries or to attend the event, please contact Alexandra Boardley at fortheperfectday@gmail.com.

For more information about One Heartland, please visit www.oneheartland.org.

About One Heartland

One Heartland is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to greatly improving the lives of children, youth and their families impacted by HIV/AIDS. It runs the largest camping and care program in the U.S., Camp Heartland, at its facility in Minnesota. Children affected by HIV/AIDS from 40 states across the country experience camping which acts as a catalyst to create community.

    Media Contact:
    Alexandra Boardley or Sean Schrecengost
    For The Perfect Day Events and Public Relations
    fortheperfectday@gmail.com
    201-660-5116

SOURCE One Heartland

Villa Enterprises Management, one of the nation's fastest growing multi-concept restaurant franchisors, today announced it won a bid to open four new restaurants at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The stores were built out over the course of 3 days and opened on October 3, 2009. Villa also reports that its sales for these locations during the NJ Devils' opening game were approximately 30% higher when compared to the previous tenant that occupied the same space.

"This is a proud day for Villa Enterprises," said Anthony Scotto, CEO, Villa Enterprises Management. "The Prudential Center is one of the finest facilities of its kind in the country and we're excited to be a part of it. We couldn't ask for better exposure for our Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen brand."

All Villa's restaurants within the world class Prudential Center will be operated as the Company's quick-service Italian restaurant concept, Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen. The four restaurants, totaling 2500 square feet of real estate, are located on the main and upper concourses. These permanent locations will offer pizza to fans at virtually every Arena event. In addition, distribution will occur on two suite levels, in the Arena Restaurant, and in the two Club Lounges, during many events. Centerplate, Prudential Center's official Concessionaire, serves as franchisee and is operating each location as part of an exclusive multi-year sponsorship arrangement.

"Prudential Center is delighted to make Villa Enterprises and the Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen a part of the Prudential Center experience," said Jeff Vanderbeek, Chairman & Managing Partner of Devils Arena Entertainment. "We are excited to offer our patrons top quality Italian cuisine while they enjoy games, shows and concerts in our arena."

"We are delighted to partner with Villa Enterprises and continue creating exceptional experiences for the Prudential Center's guests," said George Wooten, executive vice president of operations for Centerplate." Through their passion for delivering thoughtful hospitality solutions, Villa Enterprises has demonstrated their commitment to our mutual success."

As is often the case, an incredibly quick turnaround-time challenged Villa's construction team to outfit the locations in the space just 3 days before Devils' season opener. "We as a company feel a great sense of pride in what we were able to accomplish [at the Prudential Center]," said Jim Howard, Villa Enterprises Management Director of Construction. One might think that developing multiple food service sites in the same location would be easy, but the new Villa stores are located on opposite sides of the arena, on both the main and upper concourses, making for many long walks back and forth, upstairs and down, to keep everything going.

Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen is built upon a strict loyalty to authentic old-world recipes that founder Michele Scotto brought with him from Naples, Italy. From his first pizzeria, opened in 1964 next to the Ed Sullivan Theater on Broadway, to well over 200 locations domestically and internationally, his commitment to using the highest-quality ingredients and freshest food products remains the hallmark of the brand. Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen continues to satisfy guests by providing exactly what they want: pizza, homemade pasta, authentic Italian entrees, salads and specialty items -- all made fresh daily.

About Prudential Center

With a seating capacity of over 18,000, the Prudential Center is the first major league sports venue built in the New York/New Jersey metropolitan area in over 25 years, making it the premier facility in the region and the preferred choice of the region's sports and entertainment fans. To date, over 3 million people have attended various events at Prudential Center since its opening in 2007. Prudential Center is the home of the National Hockey League's New Jersey Devils, as well as the NCAA's Seton Hall Pirates men's basketball team.

About Centerplate

Centerplate crafts and delivers "Craveable Experiences. Raveable Results." in more than 140 prominent sports, entertainment and convention venues across North America. Centerplate has provided services to 11 Super Bowls, 19 World Series, key events for the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, 15 official U.S. Presidential Inaugural Balls, over 100 major College Bowl Games and the largest plated dinner in history at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Centennial Celebration. Visit the company online at www.centerplate.com.

About Villa Enterprises

Villa Enterprises is one of the nation's fastest growing multi-concept quick service restaurant franchisors with over 300 locations in 38 states and 6 countries. Founded in 1964 by Naples, Italy native Michele Scotto as a tiny pizzeria next to the Ed Sullivan Theater in Manhattan, Villa Enterprises today is an international organization that offers four unique fast casual franchise concepts. Additionally, Villa Enterprises owns and operates several upscale full service restaurants in the New York City metropolitan area.

Villa Enterprises is a multi-faceted food service organization with a history steeped in the operations and development of quick service, full service, and quick casual restaurant concepts. Its quick service restaurant brands, Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen, Green Leaf's, Banana's and South Philly Steak & Fries, are located in a multitude of high traffic locations including malls, airports, outlets, casinos and college campuses, with its flagship store located in New York's Times Square. For more information, visit www.villapizza.com.

SOURCE Villa Enterprises Management

Mars Snackfood US announced today that Kyle Busch, driver of the No. 18 M&M'S® Toyota in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, plans to go pink this weekend during the NASCAR Banking 500 only from Bank of America race in Charlotte, N.C. to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Busch plans to don a special pink firesuit, as well as climb behind the wheel of an all pink M&M'S car during the Saturday night race to help raise awareness for breast cancer.

In addition to the special NASCAR firesuit and car, Mars Snackfood US is offering consumers several delicious ways to support the cause via multiple product offerings including pink M&M'S, MY M&M'S "Promise Blend," DOVE® Promises of Hope(TM) and MY Dove Personal Promises of Hope(TM) Through the limited-edition chocolate candies, Mars Snackfood US will donate a minimum of $850,000 to aid Susan G. Komen for the Cure in their quest to save lives and end breast cancer forever.

"We are proud to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and honored to have the opportunity to serve on their Million Dollar Council," said Michele Kessler, vice president, Mars Snackfood US. "Breast cancer continues to touch all of our lives, which is why we feel it's critical for us to do our part by going pink across our M&M'S and DOVE Chocolate brand portfolios this month."

Mars Snackfood US products, merchandise and activities in support of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure include:

  • MY M&M'S will donate 10 percent of the sales of its "Promise Blend" to support the cause. The dark pink and white M&M'S Milk Chocolate Candies, are available either as a pre-printed mix featuring the "Ribbon" logo and a "for the Cure" message or consumers can create their own blend. The "Promise Blend" is available exclusively online at www.mymms.com in either 7 oz. or 1.75 oz. bags.
  • Limited-edition dark- and light- pink M&M'S Milk Chocolate and M&M'S Peanut Milk Chocolate Candies will be sold nationwide in October and November. Both varieties are available in 14-ounce and 21.3-ounce bags.
  • Available in both milk and dark chocolate, Promises of Hope features individually wrapped chocolate in special pink foils that feature inspirational messages written by breast cancer survivors to provide hope to others battling against the disease. Both Promises of Hope varieties will be available in 9.5-ounce bags.
  • My Dove Chocolate allows consumers to take the Promises of Hope products one step further by personalizing a specially created pink ribbon foil with a message of inspiration of hope. My Dove Chocolate is available exclusively at www.mydovechocolate.com.

Through the support of M&M'S brand products and DOVE brand products, Mars Snackfood US has been committed to the cause since 2003, raising more than $5 million to help find the cures for breast cancer. For more information about Mars activities during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit www.mms.com or www.dovechocolate.com.

About Mars Snackfood US:

Headquartered in Hackettstown, NJ, Mars Snackfood US is the United States snack operations of Mars, Incorporated. Mars, Incorporated is a private, family-owned company founded in 1911 and employs 70,000 associates at more than 300 sites, including more than 130 factories, in about 75 countries worldwide. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, U.S.A., Mars, Incorporated is one of the world's largest food companies, generating global revenues of more than $30 billion annually and operating in six business segments: Chocolate, Petcare, Wrigley Gum and Confections, Food, Drinks, and Symbioscience. These segments produce some of the world's leading brands: Chocolate - M&M'S®, SNICKERS®, DOVE®, GALAXY®, MARS®, MILKY WAY® and TWIX®; Petcare - PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, SHEBA®, CESAR® and ROYAL CANIN®; Wrigley - ORBIT®, EXTRA®, STARBURST®, DOUBLEMINT® and SKITTLES®; Food - UNCLE BEN'S®, DOLMIO®, EBLY®, MASTERFOODS® and SEEDS OF CHANGE®; Drinks - KLIX® and FLAVIA®; Symbioscience - WISDOM PANEL(TM) MX, SERAMIS®, and COCOAPRO(TM).

For more information, please visit www.mars.com.

SOURCE Mars Snackfood US

Twinlab, the leader in sports nutrition, announces the winner of the company's 2009 RateYourAbs.com contest. The nationwide tour hit seven cities, countless beaches and even a few nightclubs in search of the best abs. The contest generated almost 1,000 entrants vying for the title of RateYourAbs.com Champion and the Grand Prize Jeep® Wrangler Unlimited or cash prize. The search for the winner of the 2009 RateYourAbs.com Contest went down to the wire and finally Sammy Vergara of Queens, New York was named RateYourAbs.com Champion after receiving over 9,000 votes.

Sammy, who chose the cash prize option, plans to pay it forward by donating a portion of his winnings to charity.

"Taking part in the Twinlab 2009 RateYourAbs.com Contest was a lot of fun because of the high level of competitors," says Sammy Vergara, RateYourAbs.com Champion. "It makes me feel good to give back to the community and donate a portion of my prize to a charity that I am running for in the New York City Marathon called 'Run for our Sons' to combat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. I will also be investing some of it in a martial arts school that I am opening in the next couple of months here in New York."

"We are thrilled with the success of this year's campaign and look forward to what next year will bring," says Marc Stover, Twinlab's Director of Marketing. "We want to thank everyone who put their abs to the test and hope that entries that didn't pull off the victory this year will be motivated to participate in next summer's contest."

To view Sammy and the rest of the competitors, visit www.rateyourabs.com.

About Ripped Fuel: As one of the most successful weight management supplement brands in the industry for over a decade, Ripped Fuel products offer trusted performance for people seeking help to improve tone and definition.* Ripped Fuel, Ripped Fuel 5X, and Ripped Fuel Extreme offer three levels of calorie-burning intensity, and Ripped Fuel Xtendr extends thermogenisis after initial weight loss. *

About Twinlab:

Twinlab Corporation is a leading manufacturer and marketer of high quality, science-based, nutritional supplements, including a complete line of vitamins, minerals, nutraceuticals, herbs and sports nutrition products. www.twinlab.com

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease.

SOURCE Twinlab

"Helloooo short ribs!" says the pumpkin to a plate of delicious-looking short ribs. This amusing new character is just one of the "food" stars in Uno Chicago Grill's® (www.unos.com) newest television advertising campaign developed to increase awareness for the brand's limited-time-only fall menu.

The campaign, developed by Full Contact Advertising in Boston, features a deep-voiced pumpkin and a snarky cranberry in a memorable series of :05 and :15 spots. The commercials will run through mid-November in Boston, Norfolk, and Providence, although the special menu is available nationally.

"Fall means cooler weather and comfort food. We've focused on flavor in a memorable way with an array of new seasonal dishes such as boneless beef short ribs with fresh pappardelle, Kabocha pumpkin soup and pumpkin tiramisu. We also feature items with a high regard for nutrition, like our all-natural, five-grain crust harvest vegetable flatbread pizza and a power salad with sliced chicken breast, spinach, and a 'power mix' of goji berries, Thompson raisins, soy nuts, almonds, pepitas and Ocean Spray® Sweetened Dried Cranberries," said UNO® CEO Frank Guidara.

"We want customers to come into our restaurant, taste one of these new dishes, and feel they've found 'comfort central'."

For more information about UNO's fall menu, and to view the campaign, please visit www.unos.com.

About UNO:

Based in Boston, Uno Restaurant Holdings Corporation includes 200 company-owned and franchised full-service Uno Chicago Grill units located in 28 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Honduras, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. The company also operates a fast casual concept called Uno Due Go®, a quick serve concept called Uno Express®, and a consumer foods division which supplies airlines, movie theaters, hotels, airports, travel plazas, schools and supermarkets with both frozen and refrigerated private-label foods and branded UNO products. For more information, visit www.unos.com.

    Contact: Elliott Subervi
    Utopia Communications for UNO
    (732) 542-9100 Ext. 111
    Elliott@utopiacommunications.biz

SOURCE Uno Chicago Grill

Recent studies indicate that Americans of all ages are failing to get their daily recommended servings of fruits and veggies -- despite the fact that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. (State Indicator Report on Fruits and Vegetables, 2009) Frozen produce, including antioxidant-rich Wild Blueberries are a nutritious solution for families looking to make healthy eating more convenient and affordable.

"Wild Blueberries are one of the original Superfoods, and are a staple in my diet," said Dr. Steven Pratt, M.D., senior staff ophthalmologist at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, California, world-renowned nutrition authority, and author of the best-selling SuperFoods books. "Eating a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables will help you fight oxidation and inflammation, two conditions related to many diseases of aging. Frozen produce, like Wild Blueberries, is a great option for people looking to fill their pantry with healthy foods. I use frozen Wild Blueberries almost every day making sure to get these super-berries into my diet for a boost of berry nutrition." Dr. Pratt will visit the Wild Blueberry Association booth at the American Dietetic Association's Annual Food and Nutrition Conference signing copies of his latest book SuperHealth: 6 Simple Steps, 6 Easy Weeks, 1 Longer, Healthier Life.

In the spectrum of healthy fruits, Wild Blueberries stand out -- for their delicious taste, small size and big health benefits. With more antioxidant capacity per serving than most other fruits, frozen Wild Blueberries have more of what it takes to combat disease and promote healthy aging (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2004; 52:4026-4037). Just a 1/2 cup of frozen Wild Blueberries satisfies one fruit serving and is a good source of dietary fiber.

Frozen fruits and vegetables are convenient and available year-round. What's more, frozen makes it easy to get the colorful variety needed to ensure the widest range of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. Plus, the FDA has concluded that frozen produce is just as nutritious as fresh and may even retain its nutritional value longer -- all of which makes frozen an excellent value for consumers wanting to increase their intake while making the most of their food dollar.

"We're going to step up our efforts to direct grocery shoppers to the frozen fruit case as one of the healthiest, and most colorful destinations in the supermarket," said Wild Blueberry Association of North America President J. Kim Higgins. "The frozen fruit case is just as colorful as the fresh produce aisle when you think of all the wonderful berries and exotic fruits now available. We want to see retailers move berries into their own case, and see frozen fruit merchandised like frozen vegetables. Retailers and fruit and vegetable marketers have an obligation to make healthy eating a priority and frozen fruit is one area where we can make a difference."

Wild Blueberry Association of North America

The Wild Blueberry Association of North America is a trade association of growers and processors of Wild Blueberries from Maine and Canada, dedicated to bringing the Wild Blueberry health story and unique Wild Advantages to consumers and the trade worldwide. To learn more about Wild Blueberries visit wildblueberries.com.

SOURCE Wild Blueberry Association of North America

Duffy & Partners, the internationally recognized branding and design firm, today announced the addition of another client to its hospitality portfolio. Cooper, the most recent addition in the collection of Cara Irish Pubs, officially opens on October 14 in the newly developed West End in St. Louis Park, Minn. The three additional Irish pubs owned and operated by Cara Irish Pubs are Kieran's and The Local in downtown Minneapolis, and The Liffey in St. Paul.

Founder and owner of Cara Irish Pubs, Kieran Folliard, tapped Duffy & Partners to design a branding plan that reflects his vision of establishing one-of-a-kind Irish pubs. Duffy & Partners' efforts for Cooper include the design of the Cooper crest, business materials, menus and the pub's Web site, which is scheduled to launch soon.

"As the son of an Irish saloon keeper, I took this opportunity to create an authentic, unique and more inspired brand experience, than that of typical pub chains," said Joe Duffy, founder and creative director of Duffy & Partners. "Cara Irish Pubs is about harnessing community legacies, adding a dose of exceptional Irish hospitality, and designing world-class experiences. Cooper is truly stunning, with no design detail left unconsidered."

"I worked with Joe and his team because of their ability to capture emotion and experiences with design," said Folliard. "The inspirations behind Cooper are the classic Cooper Theater once found in the pub's location, and our vision of what Irish hospitality and pubs should be, specific to the communities in which they serve. A cooper is also a barrel and cask maker. Joe gets it, and was the perfect addition to an Irish crew of lads for this project."

Duffy & Partners also established a branding system for Cara Irish Pubs, based on a family crest. Folliard plans to continue expanding these pub locations, each with novel atmospheres and distinct menus. The brand mark for each pub will be based on its region, the history of the Irish community in the area, and the local fare that contributes to each menu offering.

"The branding system speaks at once to the heraldry and tradition of generations, with a contemporary presentation connected to modern expectations," said Duffy. "Our designs are meant to be neighborly with a bit of wit."

About Duffy & Partners

Duffy & Partners is committed to delivering design to enrich everyday life. Celebrating 25 years of award-winning work this year, Duffy & Partners' efforts spans many design disciplines including corporate identity, brand identity, packaging design, new media, and environmental design. Clients have included, among others: American Eagle Outfitters, Aveda, Coca-Cola, Brown-Forman, Jack in the Box, Sony, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, The Islands Of The Bahamas, Thymes, Toyota and Whole Foods. Additional information can be found at www.duffy.com.

    Contact:
    Roepke Public Relations
    (612) 677-1717
    Katherine Roepke
    kroepke@roepkepr.com

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.

Joe Duffy

https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=32623

Tricia Davidson

https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=46964

SOURCE Duffy & Partners

On the heels of September's highly successful Grand Opening of HOOTERS South Park Casino and Dueling Piano Bar, the 'nearly world famous' franchise opens a Renton location unlike any of its kind complete with casino, restaurant and, for the first time ever, a bowling lounge.

The new casino-bowl-restaurant combo location will open to the public on Tuesday, October 27th following renovations to the former Cascade Lanes. Remodeling features to the 29,000sf facility include: 24 newly refurbished and modernized lanes; over 50 42" LCD flat panel TVs; 15 table games in a 4,000sf casino; as well as HOOTERS' signature orange and white motif.

"I think that bowling is a quintessentially American form of entertainment, just like HOOTERS," said Ed Pilarz, president of Altium Development Group, parent company of the new Renton franchise. "You bowl with your buddies, you bowl with the girls next door. It's unpretentious fun. Now pair that with a casino, great food and fun HOOTERS Girls. What more could you want? Everyone we've talked with in Renton is really excited, and I think proud, to have the very first HOOTERS bowling lounge."

With 50 42" LCD flat panels hung throughout the alley for guests to keep track of the bowling games, as well as the marquee sporting contests of the day, and HOOTERS' signature menu delivered right to your lane, HOOTERS Bowling Lounge is dedicated to serving bowlers of all ages and expertise with the same personable, girl-next-door quality that has kept this "delightfully tacky yet unrefined" franchise in play for over 25 years.

Throughout the month of October, all Washington HOOTERS locations will show their support of breast cancer awareness vis a vis the "Healthy HOOTERS" campaign. Every customer who wears pink or donates a gently worn bra will receive 20% their total purchase of merchandise or food and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Foundation.

Games at the HOOTERS of Renton

Bowling leagues open at HOOTERS on November 1st and reservations are nearly filled. For league play inquiries contact Jeanne Murphy at (253) 820-5167. The HOOTERS of Renton will also feature a combination of table games: Texas Hold'em, Blackjack, Spanish 21, Pai Gow, Mini Baccarat and 4-Card Poker across a 4,000sf modern casino floor. HOOTERS of Renton is located at 17034 116th Avenue Southeast.

Community Stewardship

Also important to the HOOTERS business is community involvement, activated by volunteerism from HOOTERS Girls as well as direct financial support of local charities. As part of its grand opening celebrations the HOOTERS of Renton will be donating a portion of its profits to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Washington.

ABOUT HOOTERS

HOOTERS of America, Inc. is the Atlanta-based operator and franchiser of over 450 HOOTERS locations in 43 states in the US and around the globe. The casual beach-theme establishments feature "oldies" jukebox music, sports on television, and a menu that includes seafood, sandwiches, salads and spicy chicken wings. The HOOTERS system employs over 25,000 people - over 15,000 of which are HOOTERS Girls. The "nearly world famous" HOOTERS Girls are the cornerstone of the HOOTERS concept, and as part of their job, these all-American cheerleaders make promotional and charitable appearances in their respective communities.

Altium Development Group, parent company of the HOOTERS franchise of Western Washington currently operates stores in Tacoma and Lake Union. In addition to imminent openings in South Park and Renton the company is planning additional openings in the Western Washington market in the spring and summer of 2010.

SOURCE HOOTERS of Renton

Whole Foods Market (Nasdaq: WFMI), a leading natural and organic grocer, extends thanks to customers at its 273 U.S. locations for donating $660,065 -- to help transform school lunches across the country. Over the past eight weeks, customers surpassed the Company's goal of $400,000 to fund the development of "The Lunch Box Project," an online resource created by "Renegade Lunch Lady" Chef Ann Cooper's nonprofit, F3: Food Family Farming Foundation, which helps public schools provide more nutritious lunches for kids. This total combined with a $50,000 donation from the company means F3 will receive $710,065.

"Our customers have shown us that providing healthy lunches for our children is an issue of great importance to them," said Whole Foods Market Co-President and Chief Operating Officer Walter Robb. "We are so pleased to celebrate National School Lunch Week this year by recognizing and thanking our shoppers for their contribution. Inspired by our customers, we are deepening our own commitment by asking each Whole Foods Market location to partner with a school to work on making real progress in cafeterias in our communities' schools."

These store-school partnerships are already developing. For example, as a result of attending one of Whole Foods Market's community discussions, Dr. Melissa Kim, principal of Alice Deal Middle School in Washington, D.C., has struck up a multi-faceted relationship with Whole Foods Market in Tenley. Together the store and the school will approach the school's third-party food service provider with the aim of coordinating menu transitions and culinary training. Additionally, the Tenley store is partnering with the school's International Cooking Club, which meets once a week, to explore cuisine from around the world.

"We are so grateful for the tremendous outpouring of support by Whole Foods Market customers and employees for the creation of 'The Lunch Box Project,'" said Nicole de Beaufort, executive director for The F3 Foundation. "The momentum created by this campaign has generated not only the means to build a successful set of resources; it also has built awareness about the connection between what we feed our children and their health and well-being."

"The Lunch Box Project" toolkit, found online at thelunchbox.org, is now providing more than 80 recipes -- all nutritionally analyzed and easily scaled for portion size or number of servings. The next phase of the project will add food safety and culinary how-to videos, photos and manuals to help school lunch providers make serving nutritious, affordable lunches to students a reality.

In the spirit of National School Lunch Week, parent groups, schools and districts are encouraged to share anecdotes about how their cafeterias are improving lunches. From hosting local farmers markets and providing fresh produce to limiting fast food options in school kitchens, share your story at http://www.thelunchbox.org/school-lunch-map.aspx.

To increase national awareness of the "School Lunch Revolution," Whole Foods Market partnered with Chef Ann Cooper who traveled across the country to hold community discussions, serve on expert panels and deliver parent lectures. The three-week, six-city tour concluded last week also included school facility tours and a healthy cooking competition for children, an event that rallied customers around the cause.

This week the company also announced that Albert Einstein Academies Middle School is the winner of the School Lunch Revolution online video contest. Einstein Middle School is a charter school in the San Diego Unified School District. Einstein's entry was selected from the one-minute videos produced by parents passionate about improving lunches in their schools. The winner will receive a visit and coaching session from Chef Ann Cooper.

For more on how to get involved in the "School Lunch Revolution," visit the Whole Foods Market Web site at: http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/schoollunchrevolution/index.php.

About National School Lunch Week

National School Lunch Week was established in 1963 by presidential proclamation. The week is designed to help raise awareness of, and support for, the role that the National School Lunch Program and nutrition education play in the lives of children. This year, National School Lunch Week runs from Oct. 10 to 14.

About Whole Foods Market®

Founded in 1980 in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods Market (www.wholefoodsmarket.com), a leader in the natural and organic foods industry and America's first national certified organic grocer, was named "America's Healthiest Grocery Store" in 2008 by Health magazine. The Whole Foods Market motto, "Whole Foods, Whole People, Whole Planet"(TM) captures the company's mission to find success in customer satisfaction and wellness, employee excellence and happiness, enhanced shareholder value, community support and environmental improvement. Thanks to its 51,100 Team Members, Whole Foods Market has been ranked as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" in America by FORTUNE magazine for 13 consecutive years. In fiscal year 2008, the company had sales of $8 billion and currently has more than 280 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Whole Foods Market, Fresh & Wild(TM), and Harry's Farmers Market® are trademarks owned by Whole Foods Market IP, LP. Wild Oats® and Capers Community Market(TM) are trademarks owned by Wild Marks, Inc.

    Contacts: Nona.Evans@wholefoods.com 512-542-0381
              Liz.Burkhart@wholefoods.com 512-542-0682

SOURCE Whole Foods Market

When it comes to the foods football fans want, buffalo wings have long been at the top of the list. And whether you're tailgating outside the stadium or gathering to watch the game with friends at home, only authentic wings with that spicy buffalo kick will do. For years, the idea of enjoying great tasting buffalo wings outside a bar or restaurant seemed impossible, but wing lovers across America are about to get in on a secret that's been spreading since 2003. If you want authentic taste and the convenience of delivery or carry out, WingStreet wings from Pizza Hut are your answer.

As the "Official Wings of Football" WingStreet brings authentic, flavor-intense wings for delivery or carry-out in eight different sauces and three different wing styles- traditional, bone-out, and crispy bone-in. Combining everything you love about one of America's favorite finger foods with the convenience of Pizza Hut delivery, WingStreet is your one-stop shop for crowd-pleasing eats. Just ask one of the country's foremost wing experts, the Wing King himself, Buffalo's own Drew Cerza.

"I know a great wing the second I taste one, and the taste of WingStreet hits the mark," says the host of the annual Buffalo Wing Festival in Buffalo, N.Y., birthplace of the buffalo wing. "Whether you want sweet or spicy, hot or mild, WingStreet has a taste for every wing fan."

WingStreet offers eight intense flavors in three wing types: crispy bone-in, bone-out and traditional (unbreaded). The hardest part about ordering WingStreet wings is deciding which combination to choose. Flavors include:

         Buffalo Burnin' Hot - Extreme Heat for the daring buffalo eater.
         Buffalo Medium - Bold buffalo flavor with a spicy kick.
         Buffalo Mild - All the flavor without the fire.
         Honey BBQ - Sweet taste from the honey side of the street.
         Garlic Parmesan - The toast of Italy, the taste of two great flavors.
         Spicy BBQ - Savory and sassy with just a little kick.
         Cajun - Peppered with Cajun flavors from Louisiana.
         Spicy Asian - Far East flavors in a spicy sweet sauce.

"In communities across the country, Pizza Hut fans are already enjoying the great taste of WingStreet wings," said Scott Bergren, Pizza Hut President and CEO. "With dozens of Pizza Hut restaurants adding WingStreet to the menu each week, we're excited to bring the authentic taste of great buffalo wings and the convenience of delivery from Pizza Hut to more wing lovers."

WingStreet wings have earned bragging rights by taking home titles, such as best "Traditional Hot Wing Sauce" in 2007 and "Best Medium Sauce" in 2006 and 2008 at the National Buffalo Wing Festival, as well as "Best Medium Sauce" and "Best BBQ Sauce" at the Atlanta Wing Festival in 2007. In 2007 Nation's Restaurant News named WingStreet one of the hot concepts of the year.

WingStreet is currently on the menu at nearly 2,900 Pizza Hut restaurants nationwide, a number that will continue to increase in the coming months.

And WingStreet offers some great menu pairings that no other chicken wing chain can match. From Pizza Hut's signature pizzas to the company's line of Tuscani Pastas there are plenty of options to pair together or enjoy separately. WingStreet wings can serve as the main event, or a sweet and spicy sidekick to a meal fit for the whole team.

You can order all your Pizza Hut favorites via the new Pizza Hut iPhone App for the iPhone and iPod Touch. And pizza lovers can follow Pizza Hut on Twitter @pizzahut, to find out about hot deals, and become a fan of Pizza Hut on Facebook.

About Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut, America's Favorite Pizza, delivers more pizza, pasta and wings than any other restaurant. The only pizza company to be named a top ten franchise in 2009 by Entrepreneur Magazine, Pizza Hut began 50 years ago in Wichita, Kansas and today operates more than 10,000 restaurants in hundreds of countries. Pizza Hut, Inc. is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM). To check out what's new at Pizza Hut visit pizzahut.com.

    Dan Skinner
    Zeno PR for Pizza Hut
    312-396-9706
    dan.skinner@zenogroup.com

SOURCE Pizza Hut

Fitness enthusiasts usually have to choose between an energy or a protein drink to quench their thirst pre- or post-workout. Not anymore. Distinct Beverages has combined these two key features in a unique beverage hybrid called Protegy. It is the first carbonated protein energy drink on the market, and is available now in 12 oz. Rexam SLEEK(TM) aluminum beverage cans.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091012/CG90832)

Targeting athletes and health-conscious consumers, Protegy contains 25 grams of pure whey protein isolate and an energy blend of caffeine, Ginseng, B Vitamins, Pomegranate and Acai berry extracts. It is lactose free and has 0 grams of carbohydrates or sugar.

"This all-natural, healthy beverage is ideal as a pre- or post-workout drink, a meal replacement or just a great-tasting, antioxidizing beverage," said Jake Townson, president, Distinct Beverages. "Consumers will experience the many health benefits of the protein in addition to the wholesome energy boost."

Distinct Beverages chose to bring Protegy to market in the Rexam SLEEK can because of the package's overall "sleek" look and feel. The aluminum beverage can also keeps beverages fresh and cold longer, is easily portable and is the best environmental choice with a recycle rate at more than double any other beverage package.

"We felt this was the perfect package for our beverage, and Rexam has been an excellent partner committed to helping us succeed and build our business," said Nick Woodhead, executive vice president, Distinct Beverages.

The 12 oz. Rexam SLEEK can is part of the innovative Rexam SLEEK can family, which also includes 9 oz. and 10.5 oz. sizes.

"We worked closely with the team at Distinct Beverages to help them achieve their goal of differentiating this product from the rest of the beverage pack and helping build their business," said Andre Balbi, president and CEO, Rexam Beverage Can Americas. "Our 12 oz. SLEEK can enables their brand to stand out on retail shelves while delivering superior environmental benefits, and distribution and retail display economics."

Distinct Beverages also worked with Rexam's Graphic Art and Printing Plate Operation in Elk Grove, IL, to set the color and graphic tolerances for perfect reproduction of the Protegy brand on aluminum cans. Rexam has the only company-owned, integrated graphic art and printing plate operation, complete with a manufacturing pilot line, to set these standards confidentially with customers, before mass production.

Protegy is available now in select retail stores on the east coast, with expansion plans across the U.S. set for next year.

About Distinct Beverages

Distinct Beverages, Inc. has set its objectives to become one of the premier manufacturers and distributors in the emerging functional beverage industry with an innovative new line of great tasting, healthy and unique functional beverage concepts. The Company is poised to launch its inaugural product line under the "Protegy" brand name. For more information, visit www.drinkprotegy.com.

About Rexam

Rexam's vision is to be the leading global consumer packaging company. We are one of the largest beverage can makers in the world, and a major global player in rigid plastic packaging. We are business partners to some of the worlds most famous and successful consumer brands as well as young, entrepreneurial start-ups. We offer a broad range of packaging services and solutions for different industries, using different materials and technologies. Three things characterize us - leadership in our industry, our commitment to innovation and our passion to deliver exceptional value. Rexam's sales from ongoing operations are approximately 5 billion pounds Sterling. We employ some 21,000 people in more than 20 countries and are a member of the FTSE 100. Rexam's ordinary shares are listed with the UK Listing Authority and trade on the London Stock Exchange under the symbol REX. For further information, visit Rexam's website at www.rexam.com

SOURCE Rexam

MaggieMoo's Ice Cream and Treatery® announced today the introduction of four new Halloween ice cream cupcakes. The brand is the innovator of the ice cream cupcake and has expanded the line to include new designs for the occasion. MaggieMoo's is managed by NexCen Franchise Management, Inc., a subsidiary of NexCen Brands, Inc.

The Halloween celebration will feature four new spooky but festive, ice cream cupcakes, including: Mummy Cupcake, Eyeball Cupcake, Frankenstein Cupcake and the Jack-O-Lantern Cupcake, along with the existing signature cupcake line featured on Food Network. The new cupcakes will scare up fun and deliciousness for Halloween parties and guests of all ages. All cupcakes can be customized with any ice cream flavor, mix-in and topping to suit all occasions including birthday parties, bridal showers, tailgate parties and upcoming holidays.

"MaggieMoo's is proud to be the ice cream cupcake destination, and innovator of this unique product," said Jenn Johnston, senior vice president of brand marketing for NexCen Franchise Management. "The Halloween-themed cupcakes showcase the versatility of the products and allow customers to entertain in a variety of designs for all occasions, or just add enjoyment to their everyday lives."

Ice cream cupcakes and cakes are available for online ordering at participating stores through www.maggiemoos.com, where customers can also signup for MaggiE-Mail and become Facebook Fans to receive news, special offers and birthday surprises.

About MaggieMoo's Ice Cream and Treatery (www.maggiemoos.com)

MaggieMoo's Ice Cream and Treatery is a chain of independently owned and operated franchised stores that specialize in serving super-premium ice cream and desserts. In 1989, MaggieMoo's opened its first store in Kansas City, Kansas. The brand is known as the innovator of the world's first ice cream cupcake, and has consistently been awarded blue ribbons by the National Ice Cream Retailers Association. In addition to providing customers with premium ice cream, MaggieMoo's plays a larger role in the community by involving Miss Maggie Moo, ice cream celebutante for the Treatery, with charitable organizations and community groups. Miss Maggie Moo works with celebrities to raise money and awareness for local and national causes.

About NexCen Brands, Inc. (www.nexcenbrands.com)

NexCen Brands, Inc. is a strategic brand management company with a focus on franchising. It owns a portfolio of franchise brands that includes two retail franchises: The Athlete's Foot® and Shoebox New York®, as well as five quick service restaurant (QSR) franchises: Great American Cookies®, MaggieMoo's®, Marble Slab Creamery®, Pretzelmaker® and Pretzel Time®. The brands are managed by NexCen Franchise Management, Inc., a subsidiary of NexCen Brands.

SOURCE NexCen Brands, Inc.

Himfr.com, one of China's leading B2B search platforms with more than 30 B2B industry websites to its name, analyzes market trends for eggs.

Currently, the price of eggs is rising quickly nationwide; Himfr's analyst projects that egg prices will continue to rise in the next period of time.

In mid-July, the price of eggs in the market began to rise; by August the price of eggs had risen from 156 yuan / case to 163 yuan / case, and then floated around this price range. By late August, egg prices had hit new heights: 156.5 yuan / case by August 24, 160 yuan / case by August 25, and even 170 yuan / case recently, a new high point. As of this week, egg prices had risen for five weeks, for a cumulative increase of 5.8%. As high egg prices also affect sales on Himfr.com, sales volume is lower than before.

According to analysis, the reasons for the recent rise in egg prices are: first, increases in the price of feed; second, recovery from previously too-low prices. It is expected that as the cold weather arrives, the quality of eggs must be assured, so egg prices will rise slightly.

The analyst predicts that the high price of eggs is due to disasters and other seasonal reasons and will not last too long. However, increases due to rising prices due to recovery may persist for some time, but these increases will not be major.

About Himfr.com

Himfr.com is a promising e-commerce company and a leading vertical search engine company in China. Himfr.com offers a variety of high quality products such as solar string lights ( http://www.frbiz.com/q-solar_string_lights/ ), wire organizers ( http://www.frbiz.com/q-Wire_Organizer/ ), metallized film ( http://www.frbiz.com/q-metallized_film/ ) and many more.

    For more information, please contact:

     Himfr.com
     Tel:   +86-10-6556-9770
     Email: my@himfr.com

SOURCE Himfr.com

In honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the millions of women living with and surviving breast cancer, Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels has created the Pink Ribbon Pretzel. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of this delicious "Twist for a Cure" will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to support the fight against breast cancer and help raise awareness of the disease.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091011/CG90656)

Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, the company known for transforming the soft pretzel from a snack food to an anytime meal, has created The Pink Ribbon Pretzel as a delicious tribute to the strong women facing the disease. The Pink Ribbon Pretzel is an all-natural and nut-free twisted cinnamon roll, stuffed with a buttery, brown sugar and cinnamon filling drizzled with sweet pink icing (see attached photograph).

Visit www.kimandscotts.com to order the Pink Ribbon Pretzels.

Throughout the past year, Kim, a seasoned QVC saleswoman has sold many pretzels, including the Pink Ribbon Pretzel on QVC. A portion of the proceeds for their Pink Ribbon Pretzel went to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Like so many families, Kim Holstein's has been touched by the disease. As the president/CEO and Chief Inspiration Officer of Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, she and her team created this special pretzel as part of its Pretzels for Peace(TM) program. Pretzels for Peace(TM) is an initiative that donates pretzels, time and dollars to not-for-profits that make a positive difference in the world.

Some of the organizations that have benefited from Pretzels for Peace(TM) include: the ALS Foundation, the Avon Breast Cancer Walk, Breast Cancer Network of Strength (the organization formerly known as Y-Me), Children's HeartLink, Homes for Our Troops, National Heart Association, the Special Olympics, and Trees for The Future.

Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels was started in 1995 and is now run out of a 35,000 sq. foot Chicago bakery with annual sales projected at $10-15 million. Almost 15 years later they've transformed the pretzel from a snack to an anytime meal. Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels deliciously touts more than 10 varieties. Each all-natural pretzel is made from scratch and twisted by hand. The company is proud that its pretzels are made in a nut-free facility, a great source of whole grains and free from trans fats, preservatives and hydrogenated oils.

A woman-owned and run company, Kim & Scott's all natural and nut free pretzels are flying off the shelves at Whole Foods, Super Target, major grocery chains, smoothie chains, coffee shops, movie theaters and airports around the country. But it's Kim's bigger commitment to the company's mission to nurture, love and feed the stomachs, spirits and souls of the world community that keeps her churning out "Pretzels with a Purpose."

Kim & Scott's products and philanthropic efforts have been highly praised in 2004 by Fortune Magazine as a company "Breaking Big" and recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the "fastest growing companies in America." Additionally, they have been deliciously touted by USA Today, Entrepreneur, CNBC's Power Lunch, CNBC's Donny Deutsch's "Big Idea," Food Network's Dean Brothers and Food Network's Roker on the Road who even called the pretzels "the talk of the Windy City."

In September 2009, Kim was named the Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year by the Women's Business Development of Chicago for her business model and philanthropic efforts.

Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels was founded in 1995 by husband and wife team Kim and Scott Holstein. Since inception, the company has prided itself on its all natural, twisted by hand soft pretzels made in a nut-free bakery. The pretzels can be found in the frozen grocery aisles of Albertson's, Jewel, SuperTarget, and Whole Foods. Kim & Scott's products and philanthropic efforts were highly praised in 2004 by Fortune Magazine as a company "Breaking Big" and recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the "fastest growing companies in America." Additionally, they have been deliciously touted by USA Today, Entrepreneur, CNBC's Power Lunch, CNBC's Donny Deutsch's "Big Idea," Food Network's Dean Brothers and Food Network's Roker on the Road who even called the pretzels "the talk of the Windy City." For the past seven years, the pretzels have been sold on QVC to an audience of more than 87 million. In September 2009, Kim was recognized as the Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year by the Women's Business Development Center of Chicago.

And for more, visit us on our blog, Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and YouTube.

http://kimandscotts.wordpress.com

http://twitter.com/kimandscotts

http://www.facebook.com

http://www.youtube.com/user/kimandscotts

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kimandscotts

SOURCE Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, Inc.

General Mills (NYSE: GIS) - Bedtime stories are a tradition for many families, but this fall families are invited to also START their day with a great book. Beginning in October 2009, Cheerios® is again bringing books to the breakfast table, by providing six million children's books free inside Cheerios boxes. The books, for children ages 3 to 8 years old, include a new book in the popular "Trucktown" series, available only inside Cheerios boxes. And all five books have been specially printed in both English and Spanish.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091012/CG90353)

"Parents and caregivers play an important role in nurturing children's love of reading, by reading with their child every day," said Jeff Hingher, Cheerios marketing manager. "We hope this simple action of putting great books inside Cheerios boxes can make it easier for families to enjoy a book together, and help set the foundation for more children to grow up as readers."

Cheerios is also making a financial donation to First Book, an award-winning children's nonprofit organization that gets new books to children from low-income families. "For many kids, just having a book to read is the biggest obstacle to learning," said Kyle Zimmer, president of First Book. "Cheerios' support means we can deliver even more books to kids, many of whom don't have a single book to call their own." This is the eighth year of the Cheerios Spoonfuls of Stories program, and over the past eight years, Cheerios has distributed more than 40 million books inside Cheerios boxes - and given $3.2 million to First Book. The program is part of an ongoing commitment to helping parents provide their children with a healthy, nutritional and educational foundation.

Cheerios Spoonfuls of Stories kicks off during Give a Child a Book Week, October 12 - 19. With the help of Cheerios' financial support, First Book will give a year's worth of books to every child participating in 50 selected reading programs, one in each state across the country.

This year's book offerings from Cheerios - all by Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing - are:

Junkyard Fort, by Jon Scieszka, and illustrated by David Shannon, Loren Long and Dave Gordon. A new book in the popular "Trucktown" series, available exclusively inside Cheerios boxes. Scieszka is the United States' first National Ambassador for Young People's Literature.

Tea for Ruby, by The Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, and illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser.

Sleepyhead, by Karma Wilson and illustrated by John Segal.

Ballyhoo Bay, by Judy Sierra and illustrated by Derek Anderson.

What's Under the Bed?, written and illustrated by Joe Fenton.

Families can see which book is inside through a special cut-out window on the front of the box, so they can select the specific book they want, or collect all five.

"Encouraging kids to read is about making books available to them, and providing a variety of storylines, characters, illustration styles, and reading levels," said Scieszka. "From my perspective as an author, a teacher, a dad, and as the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, what Cheerios is doing through this Spoonfuls of Stories program is exactly and spectacularly right. This is how you make it both fun and easy for families to feed their child's love of books."

Information is online at www.spoonfulsofstories.com.

ABOUT CHEERIOS

Cheerios, America's No. 1 cereal, debuted in 1941 as Cheerioats. The nation's first ready-to-eat oat cereal has since become one of the most trusted and recognized brands in America. In fact, one of every 10 boxes of cereal sold in America is a box of Cheerios. General Mills' popular franchise includes Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Frosted Cheerios, Fruity Cheerios, Apple Cinnamon Cheerios, MultiGrain Cheerios, Berry Burst Cheerios, Yogurt Burst Cheerios, Banana Nut Cheerios and Cheerios Crunch. For more information, go to www.cheerios.com.

ABOUT FIRST BOOK

First Book provides new books to children in need addressing one of the most important factors affecting literacy - access to books. An innovative leader in social enterprise, First Book has distributed more than 60 million free and low cost books in thousands of communities. First Book now has offices in the U.S. and Canada. For more information about the nonprofit First Book please visit www.firstbook.org or call 866-393-1222.

ABOUT SIMON & SCHUSTER

Simon & Schuster, a part of the CBS Corporation, is a global leader in the field of general interest publishing, dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for consumers of all ages, across all printed, electronic, and audio formats. Its divisions include Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing, Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, Simon & Schuster Audio, Simon & Schuster Digital, and international companies in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit our website at www.simonandschuster.com.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL AMBASSADOR FOR YOUNG PEOPLE'S LITERATURE

The position of National Ambassador for Young People's Literature was created by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress and the Children's Book Council to raise national awareness of the importance of children's books as they relate to literacy, education, and the development and betterment of children's lives. Cheerios is a founding sponsor of the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. Appointed for a two-year term, Jon Scieszka is focusing attention on the need to reach out to reluctant readers. Additional information at www.childrensbookambassador.com/. The National Ambassador program is administered by Every Child a Reader, Inc.

Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Frosted Cheerios, MultiGrain Cheerios, Apple Cinnamon Cheerios, Berry Burst Cheerios, Yogurt Burst Cheerios, Fruity Cheerios, Cheerios Crunch, Banana Nut Cheerios and Spoonfuls of Stories are trademarks of General Mills.

SOURCE Cheerios

In honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the millions of women living with and surviving breast cancer, Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels has created the Pink Ribbon Pretzel. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of this delicious "Twist for a Cure" will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to support the fight against breast cancer and help raise awareness of the disease.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091011/CG90656)

Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, the company known for transforming the soft pretzel from a snack food to an anytime meal, has created The Pink Ribbon Pretzel as a delicious tribute to the strong women facing the disease. The Pink Ribbon Pretzel is an all-natural and nut-free twisted cinnamon roll, stuffed with a buttery, brown sugar and cinnamon filling drizzled with sweet pink icing (see attached photograph).

Visit www.kimandscotts.com to order the Pink Ribbon Pretzels.

Throughout the past year, Kim, a seasoned QVC saleswoman has sold many pretzels, including the Pink Ribbon Pretzel on QVC. A portion of the proceeds for their Pink Ribbon Pretzel went to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Like so many families, Kim Holstein's has been touched by the disease. As the president/CEO and Chief Inspiration Officer of Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, she and her team created this special pretzel as part of its Pretzels for Peace(TM) program. Pretzels for Peace(TM) is an initiative that donates pretzels, time and dollars to not-for-profits that make a positive difference in the world.

Some of the organizations that have benefited from Pretzels for Peace(TM) include: the ALS Foundation, the Avon Breast Cancer Walk, Breast Cancer Network of Strength (the organization formerly known as Y-Me), Children's HeartLink, Homes for Our Troops, National Heart Association, the Special Olympics, and Trees for The Future.

Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels was started in 1995 and is now run out of a 35,000 sq. foot Chicago bakery with annual sales projected at $10-15 million. Almost 15 years later they've transformed the pretzel from a snack to an anytime meal. Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels deliciously touts more than 10 varieties. Each all-natural pretzel is made from scratch and twisted by hand. The company is proud that its pretzels are made in a nut-free facility, a great source of whole grains and free from trans fats, preservatives and hydrogenated oils.

A woman-owned and run company, Kim & Scott's all natural and nut free pretzels are flying off the shelves at Whole Foods, Super Target, major grocery chains, smoothie chains, coffee shops, movie theaters and airports around the country. But it's Kim's bigger commitment to the company's mission to nurture, love and feed the stomachs, spirits and souls of the world community that keeps her churning out "Pretzels with a Purpose."

Kim & Scott's products and philanthropic efforts have been highly praised in 2004 by Fortune Magazine as a company "Breaking Big" and recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the "fastest growing companies in America." Additionally, they have been deliciously touted by USA Today, Entrepreneur, CNBC's Power Lunch, CNBC's Donny Deutsch's "Big Idea," Food Network's Dean Brothers and Food Network's Roker on the Road who even called the pretzels "the talk of the Windy City."

In September 2009, Kim was named the Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year by the Women's Business Development of Chicago for her business model and philanthropic efforts.

Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels was founded in 1995 by husband and wife team Kim and Scott Holstein. Since inception, the company has prided itself on its all natural, twisted by hand soft pretzels made in a nut-free bakery. The pretzels can be found in the frozen grocery aisles of Albertson's, Jewel, SuperTarget, and Whole Foods. Kim & Scott's products and philanthropic efforts were highly praised in 2004 by Fortune Magazine as a company "Breaking Big" and recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the "fastest growing companies in America." Additionally, they have been deliciously touted by USA Today, Entrepreneur, CNBC's Power Lunch, CNBC's Donny Deutsch's "Big Idea," Food Network's Dean Brothers and Food Network's Roker on the Road who even called the pretzels "the talk of the Windy City." For the past seven years, the pretzels have been sold on QVC to an audience of more than 87 million. In September 2009, Kim was recognized as the Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year by the Women's Business Development Center of Chicago.

And for more, visit us on our blog, Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and YouTube.

http://kimandscotts.wordpress.com

http://twitter.com/kimandscotts

http://www.facebook.com

http://www.youtube.com/user/kimandscotts

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kimandscotts

SOURCE Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, Inc.

One volunteer project. One day. Twenty Kraft Foods volunteers. What does that add up to? Families in need whose lives will be touched in the Boston area thanks to Kraft Foods' first-ever global "Make a Delicious Difference Week."

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090420/KRAFTLOGO)

With more than 10,000 employees in 33 countries participating around the world, this special week of service (Oct. 5-10) will benefit roughly 500,000 people in need. The effort will mobilize six times the number of volunteers than in previous efforts and build on the company's commitment to fighting hunger and promoting healthy lifestyles.

With a renewed emphasis on volunteerism, Kraft Foods has recruited more than twenty volunteers in Woburn, including Kraft Foods Woburn Plant Manager Dennis Gordon, to meet this need. "We may be best known for cooking up tasty products like Jell-O gelatin, but this week is all about making a difference in our communities," explained Gordon. "The volunteer spirit of our employees combined with the expertise of Casa Monte Cassino is a winning recipe to support families in need. Knowing our efforts here in Boston are an important ingredient in our first global week of service makes this experience even more powerful."

Local Project Details:

  • Teaming up with Casa Monte Cassino to clean, paint and garden to provide the families living there with a safe, clean place to stay as the children of these families receive medical treatments at local Boston hospitals.
  • Casa Monte Cassino was co-founded by Guido Vittiglio, who has worked with the Kraft Foods Atlantic Gelatin plant as a contractor for nearly three decades. Kraft Foods employees will be giving back to a cause that holds a great deal of meaning at the company's Jell-O plant.

To supplement its employees' efforts, the Kraft Foods Foundation will match U.S. employee cash contributions to nonprofits on a two-to-one basis throughout the week.

Serving Up the Spirit of Service When Needed Most

As the need rises across the metro Boston area, Kraft Foods' commitment to preventing hunger and promoting healthy lifestyles is stronger than ever.

Casa Monte Cassino, in the North End in Boston currently houses six families. The organization assists families such as one that recently traveled to Boston from Chile to receive proper medical attention for their son. The child suffers from a vascular malformation that causes veins to proliferate and swell on his face. They are provided with a free residence as they deal with some difficult times.

"Stories like these give us insight into how important it is to provide these families in need with a home as they deal with high medical bills and intense medical treatments for their children," explains Guido Vittiglio, co-founder of Casa Monte Cassino. The shocking reality is that a great number of families are affected by astronomical medical bills and limited resources here in Boston. By joining hands with my fellow Kraft Foods volunteers, we can achieve our mission of providing these families with a clean, warm and welcoming place to stay in these challenging times."

Spreading the Giving Spirit

Starting Oct. 13, people can visit www.kraftfoodscompany.com to learn how to spread the volunteer spirit through a special online video. Each time this video is viewed, the Kraft Foods will donate money to Feeding America to help provide five meals to those at risk of hunger -- up to 100,000 meals through the end of October.

Kraft Foods Support of Hunger and Healthy Lifestyles

As the second largest food company in the world, Kraft Foods is taking a stand when it comes to fighting hunger and promoting healthy lifestyles. Since 1997, the company has provided more than 1 billion servings of fresh food. Around the world, the company contributes approximately $100 million annually in food and money to community organizations. The company committed $180 million in the next three years to community involvement activities around the globe. The expansion of its global employee volunteer efforts though the first global "Make a Delicious Difference Week" is another example of Kraft Foods' stepped up efforts. In Boston, the company has supported families through partnerships with organizations like Casa Monte Cassino.

Kraft Foods

Kraft Foods (www.kraftfoodscompany.com) makes today delicious in 150 countries around the globe. Our 100,000 employees work tirelessly to make delicious foods consumers can feel good about. From American brand icons like Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings, Maxwell House coffees and Oscar Mayer meats, to global powerhouse brands like Oreo and LU biscuits, Philadelphia cream cheeses, Jacobs and Carte Noire coffees, Tang powdered beverages and Milka, Cote d'Or, Lacta and Toblerone chocolates, our brands deliver millions of smiles every day. Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT) is the world's second largest food company with annual revenues of $42 billion. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Standard & Poor's 500, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index.

                                     -make today delicious-

SOURCE Kraft Foods

Carrying the culinary hopes of the USA on his shoulders, American Matthew Cox from Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods has done what no American has done before - he has claimed the coveted Golden Spurtle trophy and won the title of World Porridge Making Champion.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091011/AQ90670)

Competing against the world's finest porridge makers at the 16th Annual "Golden Spurtle" World Porridge Making Championships on Sunday, Oct. 11, Cox took first place in the traditional porridge category and also competed in the specialty category with his pear brandy-infused Oregon Orchard Oat Brulee recipe.

"What an incredible honor," said Matt Cox, who represented Portland, Ore.-based whole grains company Bob's Red Mill in the international competition. "We came to Scotland to celebrate our passion for porridge with the Scots and we are just elated to win the world title."

Cox competed against 14 porridge-makers who came from Scotland and the United Kingdom, Sweden and Canada. The competitors included professional chefs, hoteliers, caterers and porridge enthusiasts.

The first (and only) U.S. competitor to enter the international competition, Cox prepared Steel Cut Oats from Bob's Red Mill for the competition's traditional category, which permits chefs to use only oats (the Scots call them "pinhead" oats), water and salt.

"I am absolutely delighted that Bob's Red Mill has won the Golden Spurtle," said Bob's Red Mill founder Bob Moore. "Since my first visit to Scotland, I've always been impressed with the quality of Scottish oats. To have won this title says great things about our oats - we can really say that we have the world's best oats."

Cox also competed in the Specialty Porridge category, preparing Oregon Orchard Oat Brulee: an Oregon-themed oatmeal recipe featuring Bartlett pears, dried cherries, hazelnuts and Pear Eau de Vie from Clear Creek Distillery. Celebrating the best of Oregon agriculture, the recipe was developed over several months. First place in the specialty category went to Anna-Louise Batchelor from Reading, England for her recipe of steamed porridge Spotted Dick with custard.

The team from Bob's Red Mill will return home with the coveted "Golden Spurtle" trophy. A Scottish kitchen tool dating back to the 15th century, a spurtle is a rod-like stirring stick that is traditionally used to prevent porridge from becoming lumpy. Expanding on its Oregon theme, Bob's Red Mill competed with its own custom "Myrtle Spurtle" made from Oregon myrtle wood.

Team Bob's Red Mill teammate and Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing Dennis Gilliam noted that the company was looking forward to sharing their oats with some of the world's foremost experts on the subject.

"We have had an amazing time at the Golden Spurtle event in Carrbridge," Gilliam added. "And there's no doubt that we will be back again next year to defend our title."

The Bob's Red Mill team is posting updates about its experience at the Golden Spurtle online at:

Additional information about the Golden Spurtle competition is available online at www.goldenspurtle.com.

ABOUT BOB'S RED MILL

Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods, a distinctive stone grinding miller of whole grains, was founded in 1978 with the mission of moving people back to the basics with healthy whole grains, high-fiber and complex carbohydrates. Bob's Red Mill offers a diverse line of all natural, organic and gluten-free flours, cereals, meals and mixes for pancakes, breads and soups, with more than 300 products available throughout the U.S. and Canada. With its dedicated gluten-free manufacturing facility and strict organic protocols, the company has emerged as a leader in providing safe and delicious natural, organic and gluten-free products. For more information visit www.bobsredmill.com.

SOURCE Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods

China Nutrifruit Group Limited (NYSE Amex: CNGL) ("China Nutrifruit" or "the Company"), a leading producer of premium specialty fruit based products in China ("PRC"), today announced that it effected the second and final closing of a private placement transaction and issued 43,916 units at a purchase price of $33.00 per unit for gross proceeds of $1.45 million, each unit consisting of one share of the Company's newly-designated Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and a warrant to purchase 2.5 shares of the Company's common stock. Combined with the initial closing of the offering on October 1, 2009, the Company has received aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $13.31 million, which will be used to add a new glazed fruit line and concentrate pulp production line.

"We are excited to announce the successful completion of our financing," commented Mr. Jinglin Shi, CEO of China Nutrifruit. "With the additional funds, we will increase our production capacity and expand our product offering to enhance our profitability and future growth."

The securities issued in the private placement have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction. The Company is obligated to register the shares of common stock underlying the Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and Warrants within a pre-defined period. Until they are registered, these securities may not be sold by investors in the United States, except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. For more detailed information on this financing, see the Company's Current Reports on Form 8-K which were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 1, 2009 and October 9, 2009.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About China Nutrifruit Group Limited

Through its subsidiary Daqing Longheda Food Company Limited, China Nutrifruit is engaged in developing, processing, marketing and distributing a variety of food products processed primarily from premium specialty fruits grown in Northeast China, including golden berry, crab apple, blueberry and raspberry. The Company's processing facility possesses ISO9001 and HACCP series qualifications. Currently, the Company has established an extensive nationwide sales and distribution network through 70 distributors in China. For more information, please visit http://www.chinanutrifruit.com .

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains certain statements that may include "forward looking statements." All statements other than statements of historical fact included herein are "forward-looking statements." Such statements include, among others, those concerning the offering, our expected financial performance and strategic and operational plans, our future operating results, our expectations regarding the new production lines, as well as all assumptions, expectations, predictions, intentions or beliefs about our relative strength and about future events. These forward looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, see our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ('SEC'), and our subsequent SEC filings. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.

    For more information, please contact:

     CCG Investor Relations
     Mr. Crocker Coulson, President
     Tel:   +1-646-213-1915 (New York)
     Email: crocker.coulson@ccgir.com
     Web:   http://www.ccgirasia.com

     China Nutrifruit Group Limited
     Mr. Colman Cheng, Chief Financial Officer
     Tel:   +852-9039-8111
     Email: zsj@longheda.net
     Web:   http://www.longheda.net

SOURCE China Nutrifruit Group Limited

Today in Miami, 70 Kraft Foods employees are volunteering at Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary School, in partnership with Hands On Miami, to educate kids about healthy living. Through a hands-on, interactive carnival style health fair, kids will construct food pyramids, play in active field games and participate in healthy lifestyle arts and crafts. Similar activities are taking place around the world as part of Kraft Foods' first-ever "Make a Delicious Difference Week," a special week of service (Oct. 5-10) that will benefit roughly 500,000 people in need around the world.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090420/KRAFTLOGO)

The unprecedented global effort will mobilize more than 10,000 employee volunteers - six times more than in previous efforts. From David Comeau, Vice President, Strategy, Latin America, to Irene Rosenfeld, Chairman and CEO, employees in 33 countries will lend a hand to fight hunger, promote healthy lifestyles and build stronger communities. Add it up, and "Make a Delicious Difference Week" is the single largest volunteer effort in Kraft Foods' history.

To stretch its employees' efforts, the Kraft Foods Foundation also will match U.S. employee cash contributions to nonprofits on a two-to-one basis throughout the week.

"Kraft Foods has been making a difference in communities around the world for many years," explained Comeau. "We're stepping up our efforts thanks to the enthusiasm and experience of our employees and partners like Hands On Miami. Our efforts today will help students at Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary School take home valuable knowledge on how to eat and live healthy lives."

Comeau and experienced volunteers from Kraft Foods have helped lead the effort. Hundreds of students will learn important nutritional information, fun and exciting ways to exercise and keep fit.

"On behalf of the Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary staff and students, we are extremely proud and honored to have been selected to participate in this wonderful educational event," Dr. Susan Traushke-McEachin, Principle of Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary School said. "All of the activities of the day will lead to improved physical fitness and awareness of healthier food choices, which will subsequently improve our students' academic success."

Serving Up the Spirit of Service When Needed Most

To encourage U.S. citizens to lend a hand, the new Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act took effect on Oct. 1, just days before the company's global volunteer effort. The renewed focus on giving back is critical in this economic downturn, as nearly three-quarters of Americans cut back on civic participation, including volunteering, according to the National Conference on Citizenship. But you can start changing this reality with a simple click!

Beginning Oct. 13, people can visit www.kraftfoodscompany.com to learn how to spread the volunteer spirit through a special online video. Each time this video is viewed, Kraft Foods will donate money to Feeding America to help provide five meals to those at risk of hunger -- up to 100,000 meals through the end of October.

Kraft Foods Support of Hunger and Healthy Lifestyles

As the second largest food company in the world, Kraft Foods is taking a stand when it comes to fighting hunger and promoting healthy lifestyles. Since 1997, the company has provided more than 1 billion servings of fresh food. Around the world, the company contributes approximately $100 million annually in food and money to community organizations. The company committed $180 million in the next three years to community involvement activities around the globe. The expansion of its global employee volunteer efforts though the first global "Make a Delicious Difference Week" is another example of Kraft Foods' stepped up efforts.

Kraft Foods (www.kraftfoodscompany.com) makes today delicious in 150 countries around the globe. Our 100,000 employees work tirelessly to make delicious foods consumers can feel good about. From American brand icons like Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings, Maxwell House coffees and Oscar Mayer meats, to global powerhouse brands like Oreo and LU biscuits, Philadelphia cream cheeses, Jacobs and Carte Noire coffees, Tang powdered beverages and Milka, Cote d'Or, Lacta and Toblerone chocolates, our brands deliver millions of smiles every day. Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT) is the world's second largest food company with annual revenues of $42 billion. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Standard & Poor's 500, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index.

About Hands On Miami

Since 1993, Hands On Miami, in partnership with United Way is Miami-Dade's premier resource for volunteering. Programs such as the Flexible Calendar Program, Community Bridges, Youth Volunteer Corps, Corporate Services, Disaster Preparedness, Annual Days of service, and Volunteer Referral Network have positively impacted our community. HOM provides flexibly scheduled, meaningful, direct service volunteer opportunities. In partnership with schools, social service and environmental organizations, HOM organizes more than 85 service events each month, engaging about 700 people monthly. For more information please visit the Hands On Miami website at www.handsonmiami.org.

                                -make today delicious-

SOURCE Kraft Foods

VitalRemedyMD, a physician-established company, offers scientifically formulated integrative nutritional supplements designed to improve the quality of traditional healthcare. "We are proud that VitalProteinRx is now an integral part of Fresenius' armamentarium in helping patients with chronic kidney disease," stated Dr. Seth Baum, Founder of VitalRemedyMD. A state-of-the-art medical food, VitalProteinRx is designed to provide highly concentrated quality protein for patients on dialysis and those with diabetes. Protein malnutrition is a major problem facing dialysis patients. These patients often develop taste disorders, anorexia, and an aversion to meat, all of which put them at risk for severe protein malnutrition and other nutritional deficiencies. The use of protein supplementation can significantly reduce the risk of protein malnutrition and may help improve overall patient outcomes.

About VitalRemedyMD:

VitalRemedyMD was founded by Seth J. Baum, MD, FACC, FACPM, FAHA, FNLA, a leading and practicing preventive cardiologist and cholesterol expert, to offer integrative nutritional supplements designed to improve the quality of traditional healthcare. Scientifically assessed by independent, FDA-registered laboratories, VitalRemedyMD supplements are continuously assayed for quality, quantity and purity. By drawing from the most prestigious scientific and medical journals, in combination with clinical experience and expertise, VitalRemedyMD is able to create scientifically sound nutritional supplements. For more information, please visit http://www.myvitalremedymd.com/order/Homepg.htm

    Press Contact:

    Michael Schuster
    561-347-6446 ext 205
    mschuster@vitalremedymd.com

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE VitalRemedyMD

A class action, antitrust lawsuit was filed Thursday on behalf of Northeast dairy farmers against the Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) and Dean Foods Company ("Dean") in U.S. District Court in Burlington, Vt., according to lead attorney Benjamin Brown, of Cohen Milstein.

The suit charges DFA and Dean each with monopolizing a level of distribution of fluid milk in the Northeast and forcing dairy farmers to join DFA or its marketing affiliate Dairy Marketing Services (DMS) to survive. DMS and milk processor HP Hood also were named in the suit for aiding DFA's and Dean's monopolization and, in the case of DMS for price-fixing with DFA.

Northeast dairy farmers blame DFA, the nation's largest cooperative, and Dean, the nation's largest processor, for lowering the price they receive for fluid milk by making DFA and its affiliates the exclusive suppliers of milk to Dean and Hood. Together the two processors bottle about 90 percent of the fluid milk in the Northeast.

"Monopolization and price-fixing have contributed to the milk-pricing crisis dairy farmers -- especially small, family-owned dairies in the Northeast -- face today," says Brown. "Many dairy farmers have been forced to choose between joining DFA or DMS or going out of business. If they join, they have to pay to market to their own customers at prices fixed by DFA, DMS and other cooperatives. Meanwhile, major milk processors Dean and Hood, which is part-owned by DFA, enjoy the economic benefits."

The DFA, DMS, Dean and Hood domination of the milk distribution system resulted from an unlawful series of contracts, agreements and understandings that defied restrictions that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and various state attorneys general offices imposed, says Brown.

The suit, Alice H. Allen, et al. vs. Dairy Farmers of America, which seeks both monetary damages and injunctive relief that could have far-reaching effects on the American dairy industry, charges that:

  • DFA and others engaged in a string of unlawful mergers, acquisitions and closures of bottling plants -- many of which violated conditions imposed by the DOJ -- to strengthen their control of the fluid Grade A milk market.
  • Defying the explicit instructions of the DOJ, DFA entered into unlawful agreements with Dean Foods, which controls approximately 70 percent of the Northeast market for bottling fluid Grade A milk, and Hood, which controls approximately 20 percent of the market. This ensures that DFA and DMS would supply virtually all of the fluid Grade A milk bottled in the Northeast by Dean and Hood.
  • Independent dairy cooperatives and independent dairy farmers have been forced to pay membership fees and dues to join DFA or DMS so they can obtain access to bottling plants. Access to such plants is the only way they can quality to receive minimum monthly payments on Grade A milk sales set by the United States Department of Agriculture.
  • DFA and DMS suppressed and fixed milk prices for Northeast dairy farmers, thus increasing the profits of Dean and Hood, and permitting DFA's management to divert revenue from farmers to themselves and outside business partners.

"At virtually every stage of this conspiracy, the DOJ or state attorneys general intervened to place conditions on major transactions to preserve competition," says Brown. "Yet time and time again, DFA and others circumvented and thwarted the conditions imposed by DOJ and state antitrust authorities. Now, these Defendants are using their resulting market power to deny farmers the benefits of competition. This has got to stop, which is why we filed this lawsuit on behalf of all Northeast dairy farmers."

For more information about Cohen Milstein, visit www.cohenmilstein.com

SOURCE Cohen Milstein

The U.S. Department of Justice, on behalf of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, has filed a complaint for permanent injunction against Rel's Foods Inc. (Rel's), of Oakland, Calif., seeking to stop the company from manufacturing, producing, and selling adulterated food products.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090824/FDALOGO )

The complaint also names Rel's Vice President, Peder Scott Sorensen, and two managers, Patrick O'Malley and Timothy E. Ault. Rel's prepares, processes, and distributes a variety of ready-to-eat sandwiches to convenience stores, deli markets, liquor stores, mini-marts, and gas stations in Nevada and California.

The government's complaint, filed this week in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, alleges that Rel's has an extensive history of operating under insanitary conditions. The complaint states that Rel's has produced and distributed ready-to-eat sandwiches contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes (L. mono). Listeriosis, the illness caused by L. mono, can cause fatal infections in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women may suffer miscarriages or stillbirths as a result of the infection.

The complaint alleges that FDA investigators have found L. mono inside Rel's production facility on numerous occasions since 2002. Additionally, routine laboratory testing by the Department of Defense and the California Department of Public Health, Food and Drug Branch (CFDB) found L. mono in the company's processing plant and finished sandwiches. Based on recent laboratory analyses, CFDB has embargoed and seized all in-process and finished products inside the facility.

The FDA and CFDB inspections also revealed that the company repeatedly violated the current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) requirements for foods. Investigators found poor employee sanitation practices and inappropriately maintained facility and manufacturing equipment, including excessive condensation dripping onto food contact surfaces.

"Rel's lack of effective measures to bring its food processing operations into compliance with the law poses a serious public health threat," said Michael Chappell, the FDA's acting associate commissioner for regulatory affairs. "The company's failure to comply with good manufacturing practice also demonstrates the potential for the company to continue to manufacture contaminated products."

No illnesses have been reported so far from Rel's products. Individuals who have eaten the products and who experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, should contact their health care professional.

Consumers can report problems with FDA-regulated products to their district office consumer complaint coordinator.

Media Inquiries: Stephanie Kwisnek, 301-796-4737, Stephanie.Kwisnek@fda.hhs.gov

Consumer Inquiries: 1-888-INFO-FDA

SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration

China Agritech, Inc. (Nasdaq: CAGC) ("China Agritech" or "the Company"), a leading national liquid and granular organic compound fertilizer manufacturer and distributor in China, today announced that it is increasing its annual net revenue and net income guidance for the year ended December 31, 2009. This increase in guidance follows a 56.9% increase in net revenues and 91.2% rise in net income for the second quarter ended June 30, 2009.

The Company is now expecting net revenue for the year 2009 to be as high as $70 million versus the previous guidance of over $60 million. The revised guidance for net income is approximately $12.5 million compared with the previous net income guidance of $9.5 million. Diluted earnings per share are now expected to approximate $1.88, based on the current average number of diluted shares outstanding. The new guidance represents almost a 55% increase for net revenues and around a 45% rise for net income over the year 2008 results.

Mr. Yu Chang, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of China Agritech, commented, "We are gratified with the success of our new regional production facilities and our expanded line of organic fertilizers. We now offer farmers more solutions to grow their crops and improve soil fertility. We may also benefit from the Chinese government's promotion of organic food and therefore organic fertilizers, as well as from the measures enacted to improve farmers' wealth."

The revised 2009 guidance for net revenue and net income is based on the Company's current views on the operating and market conditions, which are subject to change.

About China Agritech, Inc.

China Agritech, Inc. is engaged in the development, manufacture and distribution of liquid and granular organic compound fertilizers and related products in China. The Company has developed proprietary formulas that provide a continuous supply of high-quality agricultural products while maintaining soil fertility. The Company sells its products to farmers located in 28 provinces of China.

For more information about the Company, please visit http://www.chinaagritechinc.com .

Safe Harbor Statement

This release may contain certain "forward-looking statements" relating to the business of China Agritech and its subsidiary companies, which can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "estimates" or similar expressions, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the continued demand for China Agritech's products, China Agritech's ability to sustain growth for the balance of the year and China Agritech's ability to generally meet all of its objectives. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including all business uncertainties relating to product development, marketing, concentration in a single customer, raw material costs, market acceptance, future capital requirements, and competition in general and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Certain of these risks and uncertainties are or will be described in greater detail in our filings with the SEC. Except as required by law, China Agritech is under no obligation to update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    For more information, please contact:

    In China:
     Mr. Gareth Tang
     Chief Financial Officer
     China Agritech, Inc.
     Tel:   +86-10-5962-1220
     Email: gareth@chinaagritech.com

    In the U.S.:
     Mr. Kevin Theiss
     Investor Relations
     Grayling
     Tel:   +1-646-284-9409
     Email: kevin.theiss@us.grayling.com

SOURCE China Agritech, Inc.

Former World Heavyweight Boxing Champ, James "Buster" Douglas has his new book, "BUSTER'S BACKYARD BAR-B-Q," featured as a "Hot New Book" on Cushcity.Com starting October 14th.

Douglas will autograph books on Friday Oct. 9th and Saturday Oct.10th, 2009 at the MochaReaders.Com Presents: "Authors on the Yard II" for the 2009 Central State University Homecoming.

Douglas, and his co-author, Tony Reynolds, offer diabetics and their families inspiration and information about the disease. Now you can order BUSTERS BACKYARD BAR-B-Q, via Amazon.Com (http://tinyurl.com/bustersbarbque), or Cushcity.Com (http://www.cushcity.com/books/1442145862.htm).

"We want to give people inspiration from reading our stories and information on how to overcome this disease," Douglas said. Buster has had recent appearances on Martha Stewart Living on Sirius Radio, Fox Sports Radio, CNN iReports and other programs.

"My hope is that my story helps someone else make a positive change," Douglas said. "I want to share recipes the whole family can enjoy," Reynolds said.

After the death of his mother, who died only 23 days before what ESPN calls one of the greatest fights of the century, he started abusing himself.

On February 10, 1990, Douglas knocked out Mike Tyson in the 10th round in Tokyo, Japan. The only Vegas bookie that took the fight had placed 42-1 odds against Douglas winning that fight. Douglas details how he then started alcohol and food binges to the point of going into a diabetic coma for several days and nearly dying. He now believes he was still grieving his mother's passing after he won the fight.

Douglas and Reynolds have recently started pre-production for "I Am Buster, The James Buster Douglas Story," film.

Reynolds Sports and Entertainment RESET your expectations, RESET your dreams, RESET your life!

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE Reynolds Sports and Entertainment

If you watched the 2009 season of "The Next Food Network Star" you know that Jeffrey Saad's "cooking without borders" style combines flavorful and unexpected ingredients into simple, delicious dishes in no time. Now, along with the celebration of World Egg Day on Oct. 9, America's egg farmers are pleased to announce that Jeffrey will bring that same global and charismatic style as a spokesperson for the incredible edible egg(TM).

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091008/CG89277)

As a "Food Network" contestant, Jeffrey's easygoing personality and easy-to-follow cooking style reflected the attitude of many of today's home cooks, who want to provide diverse, tasty, and nutritious meals to their families yet demand simple recipes, affordable and easily available ingredients, and a no-fuss approach.

"If any one food can be said to play a major role in virtually every cuisine around the world, it's the egg," says Jeffrey, who trained formally at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. "Eggs are an ideal fit with today's contemporary and casual style of cooking, not to mention affordable and nutritious, so I'm especially excited to join America's egg farmers to talk about how people can benefit from enjoying them in their diet."

World Egg Day and Jeffrey Saad - A Perfect Fit

Jeffrey's introduction on World Egg Day as an incredible edible egg spokesperson speaks to America's egg farmers' belief in the growing, global interest in eggs. He has teamed up with the much-beloved World's Fastest Omelet Maker, Howard Helmer, who has demonstrated how to cook eggs on "Oprah," "Good Morning America," and in The New York Times, among hundreds of other outlets. Along with Howard, Jeffrey will bring his own style and personality.

In celebration of World Egg Day and the events scheduled to take place in more than 150 countries around the world, Jeffrey and Howard are also contributing to the Good Egg Project, an initiative by America's egg farmers to educate people about where eggs come from and to encourage them to eat good and do good everyday. They're asking egg fans everywhere to take the pledge to "Eat good. Do good everyday." at www.GoodEggProject.org. For every pledge made, America's egg farmers will donate one egg - up to a million eggs - to Feeding America, the nation's largest hunger relief organization. That's in addition to the more than 12 million eggs America's egg farmers donate annually! Starting tomorrow, on World Egg Day, be one of the first 20,000 to pledge and receive a downloadable "Buy One Get One Free" coupon for a dozen eggs from America's egg farmers.

You can also celebrate World Egg Day by taking a tasty trip across the globe without leaving your kitchen or dipping into your pocketbook with these new recipes that reflect Jeffrey's global style:

  • Fried Eggs with Homemade Salsa Verde
  • Scrambled Eggs with Zesty Toppings
  • Dutch Baby Pancake

For more egg recipes and cooking tips, visit the American Egg Board at www.IncredibleEgg.org.

About the American Egg Board (AEB)

AEB is the U.S. egg producer's link to the consumer in communicating the value of The incredible edible egg(TM) and is funded from a national legislative checkoff on all egg production from companies with greater than 75,000 layers, in the continental United States. The board consists of 18 members and 18 alternates from all regions of the country who are appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. The AEB staff carries out the programs under the board direction. AEB is located in Park Ridge, Ill. Visit www.IncredibleEgg.org for more information.

About the Good Egg Project

The Good Egg Project is an effort by America's egg farmers and the American Egg Board to educate people about where eggs come from and encourage people to pledge to "Eat Good. Do Good Everyday." In addition to the more than 12 million eggs America's egg farmers donate to the hungry annually, for every pledge made, America's egg farmers will also donate one egg to Feeding America, the nation's largest hunger relief charity, up to one million eggs. Visit www.GoodEggProject.org to learn more about modern egg farming and how to give back to the community and live more healthfully.

    For more information, contact:
    Egg News Media Hotline
    312-233-1211

SOURCE American Egg Board

Five volunteer projects. One day. More than 100 Kraft Foods' employee volunteers. What does that add up to? Thousands of people in the Bay Area benefiting from Kraft Foods' first-ever global "Make a Delicious Difference Week."

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090420/KRAFTLOGO)

With more than 10,000 employees in 33 countries participating around the world, this special week of service (Oct. 5-10) will benefit roughly 500,000 people in need. The effort will mobilize six times the number of volunteers than in previous efforts and build on the company's commitment to fighting hunger and promoting healthy lifestyles. In the Bay Area, Kraft Foods is partnering with Alameda Co. Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Loaves & Fishes, Shepherd's Gate Shelter and Turn On to America.

Kraft Foods Regional Vice President John LeGuluche will join about 50 volunteers today in partnership with Habitat for Humanity to help build a home for a family in need. "We may be best known for making delicious foods like our Oreo cookies, but 'delicious' means much more than that," said LeGuluche. "The volunteer spirit of our employees combined with the expertise of these organizations is a winning recipe to help those in need. Knowing our efforts here in the Bay Area are an important ingredient in our first global week of service makes this experience even more powerful."

Serving Up the Spirit of Service When Needed Most

As unemployment has risen in the Bay Area from 6.8 percent to 11.5 percent in the past eight months, Kraft Foods' commitment to the communities is stronger than ever.

Local projects include:

  • Packing boxes of food that will be distributed to those in need in the Bay Area by Turn on to America
  • Working at the food pantry at the Alameda County Food Bank in Oakland
  • Serving food to the homeless at the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank in Antioch
  • Teaming up with Habitat for Humanity to build a home for the Bao/Lei family in Oakland
  • Renovating the Shepherd's Gate Shelter for battered women in Livermore

To supplement its employees' efforts, the Kraft Foods Foundation will match U.S. employee cash contributions to nonprofits on a two-to-one basis throughout the week.

Spreading the Giving Spirit

Starting Oct. 13, people can visit www.kraftfoodscompany.com to learn how to spread the volunteer spirit through a special online video. Each time this video is viewed, Kraft Foods will donate money to Feeding America to help provide five meals to those at risk of hunger -- up to 100,000 meals through the end of October.

Kraft Foods Support of Hunger and Healthy Lifestyles

As the second largest food company in the world, Kraft Foods is taking a stand when it comes to fighting hunger and promoting healthy lifestyles. Since 1997, the company has provided more than 1 billion servings of fresh food. Around the world, the company contributes approximately $100 million annually in food and money to community organizations. The company committed $180 million in the next three years to community involvement activities around the globe. The expansion of its global employee volunteer efforts though the first global "Make a Delicious Difference Week" is another example of Kraft Foods' stepped up efforts.

Kraft Foods

Kraft Foods (www.kraftfoodscompany.com) makes today delicious in 150 countries around the globe. Our 100,000 employees work tirelessly to make delicious foods consumers can feel good about. From American brand icons like Kraft cheeses, dinners and dressings, Maxwell House coffees and Oscar Mayer meats, to global powerhouse brands like Oreo and LU biscuits, Philadelphia cream cheeses, Jacobs and Carte Noire coffees, Tang powdered beverages and Milka, Cote d'Or, Lacta and Toblerone chocolates, our brands deliver millions of smiles every day. Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT) is the world's second largest food company with annual revenues of $42 billion. The company is a member of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Standard & Poor's 500, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Ethibel Sustainability Index.



                               -make today delicious-

SOURCE Kraft Foods

Revention, Inc., a leading developer of complete, customizable restaurant management solutions, is pleased to announce that we have been selected as Pizza Fusion's point-of-sale and technology partner. Revention was selected primarily for its overall user functionality and ease of use.

Pizza Fusion Vice President of Operations, John J. Puidokas said, "We needed a way to drive our business by being able to look at and evaluate the numbers easily. Analyzing our numbers quickly allows us to make an immediate impact at the store level based on the necessary adjustments. Our ultimate goal was to partner with Revention because they are one source for all of our technology needs. Revention has the capabilities that Pizza Fusion was looking for in a point-of-sale provider. We only have one number to call for support, online ordering, call center management, and inventory to name a few. We needed a one-stop solution to save us time and money so we don't waste time talking to five different companies." Revention CEO Jeff Doyle said, "Revention's ability to design solutions that help build business throughout the restaurant industry is what keeps us motivated to help our customers achieve success."

About Pizza Fusion

Founded in the best interest of the individual and the environment, Pizza Fusion combines a fresh, organic menu with an industry-leading environmental approach to restaurant service in chic dining destinations built to LEED certification standards. Pizza Fusion specializes in a full-service approach to gourmet pizza, ciabatta sandwiches, salads, desserts, and organic beers and wines, all in their purest form - untainted by artificial additives, such as pesticides, preservatives, antibiotics and hormones. With numerous franchises opening across the U.S., Pizza Fusion is pioneering the organic and environmental restaurant movement as the most eco-friendly restaurant in America.

About Revention, Inc.

Revention is the leading developer of complete, customizable restaurant management solutions designed to streamline the way restaurants do business. Revention's offerings include point-of-sale solutions, HungerRush(TM) integrated online ordering, Revention University e-learning modules, and Revention Vantage(TM) enterprise management solution. Our experienced professionals are dedicated to assisting customers both before and after the sale. Our goal is to provide a complete solution that includes customized installation, training, technical support, and much more.

SOURCE Revention, Inc.

The Popcorn Factory, a leading gourmet popcorn and edible gifts company, is celebrating 30 years of delicious, fun gifts that delight families, friends, children and business customers. In honor of its 30th anniversary and National Popcorn Month, The Popcorn Factory has launched a "30 Gift Giveaway" sweepstakes. The sweepstakes, which runs now through November 23, 2009, will provide one lucky grand prize winner with 30 gifts for their friends and family (up to a $6,000 value) just in time for the holiday season.

"Our loyal customers have been instrumental in our success during the past 30 years. In addition to their loyalty, many customers have contributed ideas for some of the great gifts we have developed," said Cheryl Zatz, Vice President of Marketing at The Popcorn Factory. "We want to recognize our customers during this milestone celebration year," she said.

Over the past 30 years, The Popcorn Factory has been recognized for its rich history and contributions to the community. For the second year in a row, The Popcorn Factory donated 4,000 bags of fresh popped caramel corn to entice residents in nearby suburbs to donate to Lambs Farm, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering adults with developmental disabilities to lead personally fulfilling lives, during Popcorn Days.

The Popcorn Factory has a rich history which goes back to the inventor of the famous popcorn machines, now popular in movie theaters today. In 2006, The Popcorn Factory, a subsidiary of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. (Nasdaq: FLWS), was recognized by Guinness World Records for building the World's Largest Popcorn Ball, which weighed in at almost two and half tons with a circumference of eight feet. The record-setting, edible popcorn ball made headlines not only when it was created, but also when it traveled and was destroyed in a festive event held in Denver, Colorado.

The Popcorn Factory continues to bring life and fun to consumers with its endearing gift items and delicious products. In recent years, The Popcorn Factory also has been featured on The Food Network, the TODAY Show, YouTube and iVillage.com.

For more information on the "30 Gift Giveaway" sweepstakes, please visit http://popcorn.celebrations.com/?page_id=565 .

About The Popcorn Factory

For 30 years, The Popcorn Factory®, a subsidiary of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. (Nasdaq: FLWS), has been delighting people with delicious, premium popcorn and impressive, all-occasion gift tins, baskets and towers. Whether you are shopping for family, friends or business associates, The Popcorn Factory® has gifts to express every sentiment, and the quality of your selection is always guaranteed. The Popcorn Factory specializes in fresh popped-popcorn in exclusively designed tins. Only the highest quality ingredients are used, including 100% corn oil, real butter, genuine cheddar cheese and a special, private recipe of caramel corn. The Popcorn Factory sells its unique gifts on The Popcorn Factory website, www.thepopcornfactory.com, in its retail store located in Lake Forest, IL, and through its catalogs.

About 1-800-FLOWERS.COM

The 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, "Gift Shop" also includes gourmet gifts such as popcorn and specialty treats from The Popcorn Factory® (1-800-541-2676 or www.thepopcornfactory.com); exceptional cookies and baked gifts from Cheryl&Co.® (1-800-443-8124 or www.cherylandco.com); premium chocolates and confections from Fannie May® confections brands (www.fanniemay.com and www.harrylondon.com); gourmet foods from Greatfood.com® (www.greatfood.com); wine gifts from Ambrosia® (www.ambrosia.com); gift baskets from 1-800-BASKETS.COM® (www.1800baskets.com) and DesignPac® as well as Home Decor and Children's Gifts from Plow & Hearth® (1-800-627-1712 or www.plowandhearth.com), Wind & Weather® (www.windandweather.com), HearthSong® (www.hearthsong.com) and Magic Cabin® (www.magiccabin.com). 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under ticker symbol FLWS.

SOURCE The Popcorn Factory

Uno Chicago Grill®, America's Healthiest Chain Restaurant(i), is celebrating National Pizza Month by expanding its guests' choices. UNO® has added an all-natural, five-grain flatbread pizza crust option to any of their flatbread offerings. The new crust has 11 grams of fiber, thanks to the combination of whole wheat, toasted wheat germ, oat bran, sesame seed and ground flax seed.

In addition, as part of the limited-time-only "Fall of Surprises" menu, UNO is introducing the new, all-natural, five-grain crust as a central component of their Harvest Vegetable Flatbread Pizza. It provides a remarkable 15 grams of fiber, with the addition of toppings that include house-made salsa, cherry tomatoes roasted with garlic, basil and olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, caramelized onions, broccoli, spinach, roasted red peppers and cheese.

"We bend over backwards to make sure we give our guests choices. Our new, all-natural, five-grain flatbread crust is just another example of that commitment, being both nutritious and filled with flavor," said UNO CEO Frank Guidara.

UNO timed the release of their newest pizza for October, which is National Pizza Month(ii). It was first so designated in 1987 and continues to be the traditional time for celebration of one of America's most important and popular foods.

Americans eat approximately 100 acres of pizza each day, or about 350 slices per second. At last count, 93 percent of Americans eat at least one pizza per month, with approximately 3.5 billion pizzas sold in the U.S. each year.(iii)

"With Americans continuing their love affair with pizza, UNO is delighted to offer a new, healthier version they can enjoy knowing they've made a good nutritional choice," said Guidara.

The company that was the first to develop deep-dish pizza in 1943 is way deeper than pizza. UNO boasts a number of nutritious firsts, including being the first casual-dining chain to eliminate artificial trans fats in their restaurants. The chain was one of the first to offer a gluten-free menu, which has over 30 items ranging from entrees, salads, soups, drinks and desserts. It was also the first national chain to offer a gluten-free pizza. For guest convenience and safety, UNO was among the first to offer nutritional transparency for its menu and clearly identify - via its nutritional kiosks in restaurant lobbies - menu items with ingredients that are linked to the most common food allergies, such as fish/shellfish, soy, tree nuts/peanuts, egg, milk and wheat/gluten. Diners can also preview the menu and nutritional information online via the company's website at www.unos.com.

(i) Health magazine

(ii) Chase's Book of Annual Events

(iii) Source: Blumenfeld and Associates

About UNO:

Based in Boston, Uno Restaurant Holdings Corporation includes more than 200 company-owned and franchised full-service Uno Chicago Grill units located in 29 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Honduras, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The company also operates a fast casual concept called Uno Due Go®, a quick serve concept called Uno Express®, and a consumer foods division which supplies airlines, movie theaters, hotels, airports, travel plazas, schools and supermarkets with both frozen and refrigerated private-label foods and branded UNO products. For more information, visit www.unos.com.

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.

Frank Guidara

https://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=79706

SOURCE Uno Chicago Grill

As thousands of experts around the world converge to discuss the state of global health and nutrition at the International Congress of Nutrition (ICN), top experts from the University of California, Davis and Mars, Incorporated are acknowledging the important impact of cocoa on human health. During a session entitled "Cocoa Science - Flavanols and Sustainability," scientists will present evidence from recent research on cocoa flavanols and highlight the global advancements and future goals for cocoa sustainability.

Often linked to chocolate and indulgence, researchers around the world are taking a serious look at this much-loved "super" fruit. Some of the oldest civilizations were likely the first cocoa lovers, but only recently have we truly begun to understand the power of this unique plant. Most are surprised to learn that cocoa is actually a fruit. In fact, it's a super fruit, packed with unique active plant compounds called flavanols, linked to healthy circulation.*

"Our understanding of cocoa and potential health benefits has grown exponentially over the last few years." said presenter Carl Keen, PhD, chair of the Department of Nutrition and professor of Nutrition and Internal Medicine at the University of California, Davis. "The research clearly points to a specific benefit from cocoa flavanols - and the global potential is definitely noteworthy." Numerous scientific research papers on cocoa flavanols demonstrate a positive impact on circulatory health and related conditions.

In fact, Mars, Incorporated has published or supported more than 100 scientific publications and holds more than 80 patents resulting from work with institutions including Harvard University and the University of California, Davis. Since 1982, Mars, Incorporated has operated the Mars Center for Cocoa Science in Bahia, Brazil as a research partner with federal, local, and non-governmental organization (NGO) communities working on a broad range of issues in cocoa. Lessons learned at the center have benefited farmers around the globe.

"There's a lot to learn about cocoa as a crop, especially since cocoa supply and demand has increased steadily over the past century," said Peter van Grinsven, cocoa sustainability manager at Mars, Incorporated, which helped sponsor the ICN symposium. "By advocating for sustainable cocoa farming systems we can contribute positively to future health goals." Cocoa is grown around the globe in hot and humid climates - 20 degrees north or south of the equator. Using sustainable farming systems in these communities can not only help maintain crop supply, but it could also affect global health, beyond the benefits of the cocoa itself by:

  • promoting responsible land use and crop diversification (cash and food crops) and farming strategies that negate the needs to abandon ageing farms and cultivate new lands,
  • generating funds to invest in (rural) communities for education, sanitation, health services and general infrastructure,
  • helping cocoa farmers become the 'local market' for food crop farmers, and
  • contributing to carbon sequestering.

Mars Cocoa Commitment

As a family-owned business, Mars, Incorporated's approach has always been hands-on and holistic. The company works closely with native cocoa farmers, pursuing the best ways to plant, cultivate and harvest their fruit - ultimately increasing the profitability and improving the quality of life for local communities.

Through involvement in programs like the Cocoa Sustainability Partnership (CSP) in Southeast Asia, Mars is helping to deliver a cocoa revitalization program that not only educates and supports cocoa farmers, but is also helping to planting millions of cocoa trees over the next few years in cocoa growing regions. . .enabling these communities to thrive. This is all part of the Mars, Incorporated global commitment to ensure their entire cocoa supply is certified as sustainably sourced by 2020.

Mars Patented Technology - Cocoapro(TM)

Cocoa flavanols can be easily destroyed during normal chocolate processing. Building off of years of manufacturing experience, Mars, Incorporated scientists have perfected a process to reduce the cocoa bean's exposure to high temperatures, helping protect the cocoa extract. The proprietary, patented Mars, Incorporated Cocoapro process ensures delivery of a cocoa extract ingredient guaranteed to have consistently high levels of cocoa flavanols.

About Cirku(TM) and CirkuHealth(TM)

This fall, Mars Botanical, a scientific division of Mars, Incorporated, introduced Cirku, a cocoa extract ingredient guaranteeing a concentrated source of cocoa flavanols, and CirkuHealth, a great-tasting dietary supplement cocoa extract powder mix. CirkuHealth is available online in the U.S. at www.CirkuHealth.com in original and sweetened varieties as a month's supply of 28 single-serve packets for $44.95.

If you'd like to arrange a meeting with a Mars, Incorporated expert at ICN or beyond, please contact Onanong Pratakphiriya in Bangkok (T: +662.343.6059 | M: +668.1828.1002 onanong@webershandwick.com) or Lori Fromm in the United States (312-988-2436 lfromm@webershandwick.com).

"Cocoa Science - Flavanols and Sustainability" will take place on Thursday, October 8th at the International Congress of Nutrition (ICN) in Bangkok, Thailand.

* This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

MARS, INCORPORATED

Mars, Incorporated is a private, family-owned company founded in 1911 and employing over 65,000 associates at more than 230 sites, including 135 factories, in 68 countries worldwide. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, U.S.A., Mars, Incorporated is one of the world's largest food companies, generating global revenues of more than $30 billion annually and operating in six business segments: Chocolate, Petcare, Wrigley, Food, Drinks, and Symbioscience. These segments produce some of the world's leading brands: Chocolate - M&M'S®, SNICKERS®, DOVE®, GALAXY®, MARS®, MILKY WAY® and TWIX®; Petcare - PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, SHEBA®, CESAR®, and ROYAL CANIN®; Wrigley - ORBIT®, EXTRA®, STARBURST®, DOUBLEMINT® and SKITTLES®; Food - UNCLE BEN'S®, DOLMIO®, EBLY®, MASTERFOODS® and SEEDS OF CHANGE®; Drinks - KLIX® and FLAVIA®; Symbioscience - WISDOM WISDOM PANEL(TM) INSIGHTS, WISDOM PANEL(TM) PROFESSIONAL, SERAMIS®, CIRKUHEALTH(TM) and COCOAPRO(TM).

For more information, please visit www.mars.com.

MARS BOTANICAL

Mars Botanical, headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, was established as a scientific division of Mars, Incorporated in 2007 to focus on research and product development involving flavanols found in cocoa, tea, wine and certain fruits and vegetables. Its mission is to improve human health by promoting and delivering the natural power of flavanols in a cocoa extract through passionate and caring entrepreneurship. Mars Botanical will continue to build on the nearly 20-year heritage of Mars, Incorporated to continue its global scientific leadership aimed at investigating the health and biomedical potential of flavanols while establishing a sustainable, certified source of cocoa traceable from pod to product. For more information, visit www.MarsBotanical.com.

SOURCE Mars, Incorporated

PepsiCo (NYSE: PEP), one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, received an Environmental Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay(SM) Transport Partnership for its leadership in conserving energy and lowering greenhouse gas emissions from its transportation and freight activities.

PepsiCo has set a standard for the industry by having 100% of its transportation needs executed by SmartWay carriers and affiliates. PepsiCo and SmartWay's combined efficiency and fuel conservation projects have driven reductions in fuel use of nearly 15 million gallons of diesel, eliminating 340 million pounds of CO2 emissions and lowering PepsiCo's fuel costs.

"Our partnership with SmartWay Transport has driven awareness within and outside the walls of PepsiCo, demonstrating how companies can lower their fuel use, save money and help the environment," said Mark Whittaker VP PepsiCo Transportation. "Sustainability projects in transportation have provided a tremendous return on investment since reducing emissions also translates to lower fuel costs."

PepsiCo was one of 37 companies and organizations from among the Partnership's more than 2,100 partners to receive this distinction. The awards were announced today at the American Trucking Association's Annual Management Conference & Exhibit in Las Vegas.

"EPA is pleased to recognize these SmartWay Partners with a 2009 Excellence Award. I commend PepsiCo for its leadership in promoting sustainable transportation practices through the SmartWay Transport Partnership," said Margo T. Oge, Director of the Office of Transportation and Air Quality, EPA. "These actions demonstrate a commitment to a cleaner environment and more secure energy supply."

SmartWay was introduced by EPA and a select group of fifteen shipping and business leaders in 2004 as an innovative, market-based partnership to reduce fuel use, greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants from the freight sector. Today, more than 2,200 businesses and organizations have joined the Partnership, including companies of all sizes, from Fortune 500 companies to family-owned businesses, each working to improve their environmental performance.

Together, through the SmartWay Partnership, these companies will collectively eliminate six million tons of carbon dioxide that contribute to global warming and save more 540 million gallons of diesel fuel -- an economic savings of at least $2 billion a year.

For more information about SmartWay visit: www.epa.gov/smartway.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo offers the world's largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 18 different product lines that each generate more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. Our main businesses -- Frito-Lay, Quaker, Pepsi-Cola, Tropicana and Gatorade -- also make hundreds of other nourishing, tasty foods and drinks that bring joy to our consumers in over 200 countries. With more than $43 billion in 2008 revenues, PepsiCo employs 198,000 people who are united by our unique commitment to sustainable growth, called Performance with Purpose. By dedicating ourselves to offering a broad array of choices for healthy, convenient and fun nourishment, reducing our environmental impact, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, PepsiCo balances strong financial returns with giving back to our communities worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.com.

SOURCE PepsiCo

This holiday season, Libby's Vegetables is launching the first-ever team-based Virtual Canned Food Drive to support Feeding America and the increased demand on its network food banks. The online food drive encourages families to form teams and champion their friends and local communities to support them. Families who raise $1,000 or more for Feeding America will get their pantries stocked up with a year's supply of canned vegetables from Libby's(1). In addition, Libby's Vegetables will match up to $30,000 of donations raised by December 13, 2009, to total 350,000 meals for needy families.

"Libby's has always been committed to helping families enjoy affordable, great-tasting meals and time together around the table. With many families struggling to put food on the table, together with Feeding America, we're evolving with the digital age to create a virtual canned food drive that makes helping the less fortunate easier than ever," commented Bruce Wolcott, Vice President of Marketing, Seneca Foods Corporation. "With just a click of a mouse, we can help give families the food they need during these challenging times."

The current economic climate has had a notable impact on food banks across the country, with 99 percent of Feeding America network food banks experiencing a significant surge in demand for emergency food assistance over the past year. Unfortunately, this increased demand has strongly affected family meals - more than half (56 percent) of food banks reported that they are seeing more children as clients.

"Many Americans are unaware of the large demand for food assistance throughout the country, which has increased 30 percent over the last year and in many communities the increase is much higher," said Vicki Escarra, president and CEO of Feeding America. "We are excited to work with Libby's Vegetables to launch our first virtual program. Libby's and Feeding America share a passion for bringing families together over meals, and we hope this program gives everyone an opportunity to support mealtime for families that can no longer provide for themselves."

To help Feeding America and Libby's Vegetables meet the increasing strains on area food banks, families are encouraged to participate in the first-ever team-based Virtual Canned Food Drive by visiting GetBacktotheTable.com where they can create a team profile and engage their communities to help hungry families in their area. For every $5 raised, Feeding America provides 35 meals to those in need.

"Libby's Vegetables is dedicated to helping families connect at the dinner table through easy, nutritious and affordable meals," explains Total Mom author and mother of seven, Hannah Keeley. "Families who visit GetBacktotheTable.com can check out easy recipes that won't break the budget and expert tips on how to prep for dinnertime."

About Feeding America (Formerly America's Second Harvest - The Nation's Food Bank Network)

Feeding America provides low-income individuals and families with the fuel to survive and even thrive. As the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity, our network members supply food to more than 25 million Americans each year, including 9 million children and 3 million seniors. Serving the entire United States, more than 200 member food banks support 63,000 agencies that address hunger in all of its forms. For more information on how you can fight hunger in your community and across the country, visit www.feedingamerica.org.

About Libby's Vegetables

Libby's Vegetables, the nation's third largest brand of canned vegetables, has been a staple on American dinner tables since the 1880s. With over 60 different varieties, it offers among the industry's most complete lines of canned vegetables, including new Libby's Naturals, with no added sugar or salt, and Libby's Organics. Since 1983, Libby's Vegetables have been produced and distributed by Marion, NY-based Seneca Foods Corporation, an independent, publicly-traded, fully integrated food processing company. For more information on Libby's and Seneca Foods visit SenecaFoods.com. For information on Libby's Get Back to the Table mission visit GetBacktotheTable.com or follow @LibbysTable on Twitter.

(1) The prize will be awarded by Libby's Vegetables in the form of 200 manufacturers coupons good for any Libby's Vegetables product.

SOURCE Libby's Vegetables; Feeding America

Domino's Pizza, Inc. (NYSE: DPZ) announces the following webcast:

    What:   Domino's Pizza, Inc. Third Quarter 2009 Earnings Conference Call

    When:   Tuesday, October 13, 11:00 a.m. Eastern

    Where:  www.dominosbiz.com

    How:    Live over the Internet. Simply log on to the Web address above.

The webcast will also be archived on the Domino's web site for replay.

About Domino's Pizza®

Founded in 1960, Domino's Pizza is the recognized world leader in pizza delivery. Domino's is listed on the NYSE under the symbol "DPZ." Through its primarily locally-owned and operated franchised system, Domino's operates a network of 8,773 franchised and Company-owned stores in the United States and 60 international markets. The Domino's Pizza® brand, named a Megabrand by Advertising Age magazine, had global retail sales of over $5.5 billion in 2008, comprised of nearly $3.1 billion domestically and over $2.4 billion internationally. Domino's Pizza was named "Chain of the Year" by Pizza Today magazine, the leading publication of the pizza industry. In 2009 Domino's ranked number one in customer satisfaction in a survey of consumers of the U.S. largest limited service restaurants, according to the annual American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI).

Twitter - http://twitter.com/dominos

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/Dominos

Order - www.dominos.com

Mobile - mobile.dominos.com

Info - www.dominosbiz.com

SOURCE Domino's Pizza, Inc.

PepsiCo, Inc., (NYSE: PEP) today announced that Jaya Kumar has been appointed President - Quaker Foods & Snacks.

In this role, Kumar will lead the $2 Billion operating unit, with a portfolio of brands that includes Quaker hot cereals and Chewy granola bars, Cap'n Crunch, Life and Quaker Oatmeal Squares ready-to-eat cereals, Aunt Jemima mixes and syrups, Rice-A-Roni and Near East side dishes, and Quaker's lite snacks. Based in Chicago, he will report to PepsiCo Americas Foods CEO John Compton.

"Jaya brings a powerful combination of innovation, marketing and retail capabilities to his new role at Quaker," said Compton. "As our global mega-brand for health and wellness, Quaker is the jewel of our good-for-you portfolio of food brands. Jaya's passion for growth, coupled with his deep expertise in consumer and shopping insights, is an unbeatable recipe for taking Quaker through its next chapter of growth."

Since joining PepsiCo in 2005, Kumar has worked with PepsiCo's Frito-Lay North America unit, most recently serving as the division's chief marketing officer. While at Frito-Lay, he has transformed the marketing agenda and key organizational capabilities - driving innovation by integrating customer sales, marketing and R&D. Under his leadership, the division launched the ground-breaking Crash the Super Bowl consumer promotion for Doritos, which engaged consumers in creating their own television advertisements that aired on the NFL's Super Bowl. One of those consumer-created entries took the top spot on the USA Today Ad Meter earlier this year, and earned the $1 million prize that came with that honor from Frito-Lay.

Prior to joining PepsiCo's Frito-Lay business, Kumar had 18 years of international and domestic brand management and sales experience with a number of consumer goods companies such as at Kraft Foods. He earned a BS from The University of Sciences in Bangalore, India, and received his MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, India.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo offers the world's largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 18 different product lines that each generate more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. Our main businesses - Frito-Lay, Quaker, Pepsi-Cola, Tropicana and Gatorade - also make hundreds of other nourishing, tasty foods and drinks that bring joy to our consumers in over 200 countries. With more than $43 billion in 2008 revenues, PepsiCo employs 198,000 people who are united by our unique commitment to sustainable growth, called Performance with Purpose. By dedicating ourselves to offering a broad array of choices for healthy, convenient and fun nourishment, reducing our environmental impact, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, PepsiCo balances strong financial returns with giving back to our communities worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.com.

Contact: Hilary Crnkovich - Quaker Foods & Snacks 312--821-1397

SOURCE PepsiCo

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. (Nasdaq: RMCF) (the "Company"), which franchises gourmet chocolate and confection stores and manufactures an extensive line of premium chocolates and other confectionery products, today reported its operating results for the second quarter and first half of FY2010.

For the three months ended August 31, 2009, total revenues decreased 3.2 percent to approximately $6.1 million, compared with revenues of approximately $6.3 million in the second quarter of the previous fiscal year. While same-store sales at franchised retail outlets decreased 4.8 percent, when compared with the prior-year quarter, the decrease was smaller than the 6.7 percent decline recorded in the first quarter of FY2010. Management believes the decrease in same-store sales in both quarters was primarily due to the economic recession and its impact upon retailing, in general, and regional shopping mall customer traffic, in particular.

Retail sales increased 43.9 percent from last year's second quarter, to $670,900 (vs. $466,200), reflecting an increase in the average number of Company-owned stores in operation from 4 in the second quarter of FY2009 to 7 in the second quarter of FY2010. Same-store retail sales increased 2.6 percent in the most recent quarter, when compared with prior-year levels.

Total factory product sales declined 6.7 percent from last year's second quarter, primarily due to a 9.0 percent decrease in same-store pounds of product purchased by franchisees, a 1.5 percent decrease in the average number of franchised stores in operation, and a 40.1 percent reduction in product shipments to customers outside the Company's system of franchised retail stores.

Net income for the three months ended August 31, 2009 increased 5.9 percent to $882,000, versus $833,000 in the three months ended August 31, 2008. Basic earnings per share improved 7.1 percent to $0.15 in the second quarter of FY2010, compared with $0.14 a year earlier. Diluted earnings per share totaled $0.14 in the most recent quarter, which was unchanged from the corresponding quarter in the previous fiscal year.

"We are pleased to report a modest increase in our second quarter earnings, which was a result of lower general and administrative costs, primarily due to decreased professional fees, when compared with the year-earlier quarter," noted Bryan Merryman, Chief Operating Officer of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. "As a percentage of total revenues, general and administrative expenses decreased to 8.8 percent in the most recent quarter, versus 9.5 percent in last year's second quarter."

"While our franchisees continue to wrestle with a weak economy and lower customer traffic in most of our retail venues, the 4.8 percent decline in second quarter same-store sales at our franchised locations was not as great as in either of the previous two quarters," added Merryman. "This supports our cautious optimism that the U.S. retailing environment may have 'bottomed out', but our franchisees are still faced with a very difficult credit market that has curtailed their access to financing for new store openings. Our focus remains upon helping our franchisees manage their businesses as efficiently as possible during this difficult economic period, and we realize that new store openings must take a back seat in terms of our priorities until consumer confidence and small business credit conditions improve."

For the six months ended August 31, 2009, total revenues decreased 4.4 percent to approximately $12.8 million, compared with revenues of approximately $13.4 million in the first half of FY2009. Same-store sales at franchised retail outlets decreased 5.5 percent, when compared with the six months ended August 31, 2008. Management believes the decrease in same-store sales was primarily due to the economic recession and its impact upon retailing, in general, and regional shopping mall customer traffic, in particular.

Retail sales increased 39.2 percent to $1,176,500 in the first half of FY2010, compared to $844,900 in the first half of FY2009, reflecting an increase in the average number of Company-owned stores in operation. Same-store retail sales increased 0.6 percent in the first half of FY2010, when compared with prior-year levels.

Total factory product sales declined 5.1 percent, primarily due to a 7.2 percent decrease in same-store pounds purchased by franchisees and a 1.2 percent decrease in the average number of franchised stores in operation, partially offset by a 9.5 percent increase in product shipments to customers outside the Company's system of franchised retail stores.

Net income for the six months ended August 31, 2009 decreased 11.3 percent to $1,630,000, versus $1,837,000 in the six months ended August 31, 2008. Basic earnings per share declined 12.9 percent to $0.27 in the first half of FY2010, compared with $0.31 a year earlier. Diluted earnings per share of $0.26 in the six months ended August 31, 2009, were 13.3 percent lower than the $0.30 per share reported in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year.

"A particularly bright spot in our near-to-intermediate-term outlook involves our co-branding relationship with Cold Stone Creamery," continued Merryman. "To date, 9 co-branded test stores have either opened or been converted to offer both Cold Stone Creamery desserts and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory confections, and we continue to be pleased with the sales performance of these locations. Stores that have been converted to the co-branding format have recorded double-digit percentage increases in weekly sales following their conversion, relative to their sales levels prior to conversion. In August, we entered into a Master License Agreement with Kahala Franchise Corp., the parent of Cold Stone Creamery, that anticipates an acceleration in the pace of store conversions and the co-branding of several hundred stores throughout the U.S. in the next several years."

"Our financial condition has remained very strong during the past year, despite the stress that has characterized the global economy. Cash and cash equivalents stood at $2.1 million as of August 31, 2009, our current ratio was a healthy 4.1-to-1.0, we had no debt outstanding, and stockholders' equity approximated $13.8 million."

Franchisees and licensees opened 10 new stores, including 4 Cold Stone Co-branded stores, during the second quarter and 13 new stores including 5 Cold Stone Co-branded stores during the first half of Fiscal 2010. Based upon information currently available to the Company, we anticipate that the number of new store openings for the full year will approximate 30 to 40 units, including 10 to 20 Cold Stone Creamery co-branded locations.

During the second quarter of Fiscal 2010, franchisees and licensees opened new stores, including Cold Stone co-branded conversions, in Aberdeen, North Carolina; Arlington, Texas; Asheville, North Carolina; Coconut Creek, Florida; Mammoth, California; Peoria, Arizona; Rocky View, Alberta; Santa Rosa, California; Silverthorne, Colorado and Thornhill, Ontario.

On September 18, 2009, the Company paid its 25th consecutive quarterly cash dividend, in the amount of $0.10 per share, to shareholders of record as of September 8, 2009.

The Company will host its second quarter conference call today, October 6, 2009 at 4:15 p.m. EDT. To access the conference call, please dial 800-860-2442 (international/local participants dial 412-858-4600) approximately five minutes prior to 4:15 p.m. EDT and ask to be connected to the "Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Conference Call". A replay of the conference call will be available one hour after completion of the call until October 13, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. EDT by dialing 877-344-7529 (international callers dial 412-317-0088) and entering the replay access code #434152.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc., headquartered in Durango, Colorado, is an international franchiser of gourmet chocolate and confection stores and a manufacturer of an extensive line of premium chocolates and other confectionery products. As of October 6, 2009, the Company and its franchisees operate 328 stores in 35 states, Canada and the United Arab Emirates. The Company's common stock is listed on The Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol "RMCF".

Certain statements in this press release are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking information. Risks and uncertainties that could cause cash flows to decrease or actual results to differ materially include, without limitation, seasonality, consumer interest in the Company's products, general economic conditions, consumer and retail trends, costs and availability of raw materials, competition, the success of the Company's agreement with Cold Stone Creamery Brands to open co-branded stores, including but not limited to new store openings and other risks. Readers are referred to the Company's periodic reports filed with the SEC, specifically the most recent reports which identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. The information contained in this press release is a statement of the Company's present intentions, beliefs or expectations and is based upon, among other things, the existing business environment, industry conditions, market conditions and prices, the economy in general and the Company's assumptions. The Company may change its intentions, beliefs or expectations at any time and without notice, based upon any changes in such factors, in its assumptions or otherwise. The cautionary statements contained or referred to in this press release should be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that the Company or persons acting on its behalf may issue.

     For Further Information, Contact Bryan J. Merryman COO/CFO (970) 259-0554

                                (Financial Highlights Follow)


                                       STORE INFORMATION

                     New stores opened during the
                           six months ended        Stores open as of
                            August 31, 2009         August 31, 2009
                            ---------------         ---------------


    United States:
      Franchised Stores            5                        256
      Company-owned Stores                                    7
    International Licensed
     Stores                        3                         48
    Cold Stone Co-branded          5                          9
                                 ---                        ---
    Total                         13                        329
                                 ===                        ===



                                  INTERIM UNAUDITED
                                 STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                        (in thousands, except per share data)

                                Three Months Ended       Three Months Ended
                                     August 31,               August 31,
                               2009             2008      2009         2008

    Revenues
      Factory sales           $3,927           $4,207     64.5%        66.9%
      Royalty and marketing
       fees                    1,446            1,510     23.8%        24.0%
      Franchise fees              44              106      0.7%         1.7%
      Retail sales               670              466     11.0%         7.4%
      Total revenues           6,087            6,289    100.0%       100.0%

    Costs and Expenses
      Cost of sales            2,858            3,101     47.0%        49.3%
      Franchise costs            402              499      6.6%         7.9%
      Sales and marketing        339              315      5.5%         5.0%
      General and
       administrative            536              600      8.8%         9.6%
      Retail operating           384              235      6.3%         3.7%
      Depreciation and
       amortization              176              194      2.9%         3.1%

      Total costs and
       expenses                4,695            4,944     77.1%        78.6%

    Income from Operations     1,392            1,345     22.9%        21.4%

    Other Income (Expense)
      Interest expense             -               (4)       -        (0.1%)
      Interest income              7                5      0.1%         0.1%
      Other, net                   7                1      0.1%         0.0%

    Income Before Income
     Taxes                     1,399            1,346     23.0%        21.4%

    Provision for Income
     Taxes                       517              513      8.5%         8.2%

    Net Income                  $882             $833     14.5%        13.2%

    Basic Earnings per
     Common Share              $0.15            $0.14
    Diluted Earnings per
     Common Share
                               $0.14            $0.14

    Weighted Average
     Common Shares
     Outstanding           6,005,891        5,984,919
    Dilutive Effect of
     Stock Options           204,839          156,286
    Weighted Average
     Common Shares
     Outstanding, Assuming
     Dilution              6,210,730        6,141,205



                                  INTERIM UNAUDITED
                                 STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                        (in thousands, except per share data)

                                   Six Months Ended        Six Months Ended
                                      August 31,               August 31,
                                  2009         2008        2009         2008
    Revenues
      Factory sales              $8,808       $9,279       69.1%        69.5%
      Royalty and marketing fees  2,718        2,952       21.3%        22.1%
      Franchise fees                 54          274        0.4%         2.1%
      Retail sales                1,176          845        9.2%         6.3%
      Total revenues             12,756       13,350      100.0%       100.0%

    Costs and Expenses
      Cost of sales               6,466        6,799       50.7%        50.9%
      Franchise costs               772          818        6.0%         6.1%
      Sales and marketing           677          706        5.3%         5.3%
      General and administrative  1,203        1,225        9.4%         9.2%
      Retail operating              708          447        5.6%         3.4%
      Depreciation and
       amortization                 355          392        2.8%         2.9%

      Total costs and expenses   10,181       10,387       79.8%        77.8%

    Income from Operations        2,575        2,963       20.2%        22.2%

    Other Income (Expense)
      Interest expense                -           (8)       0.0%        (0.1%)
      Interest income                12           13        0.1%         0.1%
      Other, net                     12            5        0.1%         0.0%

    Income Before Income
     Taxes                        2,587        2,968       20.3%        22.2%

    Provision for Income
     Taxes                          957        1,131        7.5%         8.5%

    Net Income                   $1,630       $1,837       12.8%        13.7%

    Basic Earnings per
     Common Share                 $0.27        $0.31
    Diluted Earnings per
     Common Share                 $0.26        $0.30

    Weighted Average
     Common Shares
     Outstanding              5,999,277    5,983,180

    Dilutive Effect of
      Stock Options             201,182      141,782
    Weighted Average
     Common Shares
     Outstanding,
     Assuming Dilution        6,200,459    6,124,962



                             SELECTED BALANCE SHEET DATA
                                   (in thousands)

                                    August 31, 2009  February 28, 2009
                                                       (audited)
    Current Assets                      $10,496         $10,142
    Total assets                        $17,250         $16,841
    Current Liabilities                  $2,580          $2,771
    Stockholders' Equity                $13,833         $13,242

SOURCE Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc.

Beginning in January 2010, Earth's Best(®) (www.earthsbest.com), the first and only full line of organic baby food, toddler food and infant formula and a brand of The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: HAIN), will begin a year-long celebration of its 25-year heritage of nurturing babies the purest way. Based on a desire to keep potentially harmful pesticides out of the earth and children's food supply, Earth's Best was founded in 1985 and has grown to be a leader and innovator in children's products, making it the gold standard for parents and caregivers who seek products that are better for their children and for the environment. The line has expanded to also include infant formula, TenderCare(®) Chlorine-Free Diapers and Wipes and baby body care products made with organic ingredients.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091005/NY86915LOGO )

"Hain Celestial has never lost sight of the original reasons why Earth's Best was created, helping parents nurture their children with the purest choices for their nutrition and well being," said Irwin D. Simon, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hain Celestial. "We are proud to have expanded the line to include so many healthful options for parents of infants and toddlers, both in food and personal care products, providing them with better-for-you quality products to choose from for the past 25 years."

Raising Generation Pure

Saluting its heritage and planning for an even brighter future, Earth's Best is looking forward to raising a whole new generation of healthy babies and is currently hosting a contest to find the 25 Faces of Generation Pure. 25 winners will be announced in January 2010 and featured on www.earthsbest.com and www.YouTube.com to kick-off the 25th Birthday celebrations.

"For 25 years Earth's Best has been committed to nurturing children with the healthiest ingredients and products. The "Faces of Generation Pure" campaign is a tribute to the millions of babies who grew up on Earth's Best over the past 25 years and a celebration of a new, future generation of healthy babies to come," said Kimberley Bremer, Senior Director of Infant Feeding at Hain Celestial.

History of Excellence

In 2000, Hain Celestial brought Earth's Best into its portfolio of organic and natural foods. Hain expanded Earth's Best with foods for toddlers with its Tots and Kidz lines and a full line of Sesame Street breakfasts, snacks and meals including frozen foods. In 2005, the brand expanded to include Earth's Best Baby Body Care by Jason; in 2006 it launched iron fortified Organic Infant Dairy and Soy Formulas nationally into Natural Foods that contain DHA and ARA (essential fatty acids needed for brain and eye development); and in 2008 it introduced Earth's Best TenderCare(TM) Chlorine Free diapers made from renewable resources such as plant and corn starch, as well as chlorine free baby wipes.

Why Organic?

Pound for pound babies consume two to four times more fruits and vegetables than adults and are exposed to a higher proportion of contaminants. Organic ingredients like those used in Earth's Best products are grown in soil not treated with harmful synthetic herbicides, pesticides, chemical fertilizers or sewage sludge. No genetically engineered ingredients are used.

"By selecting organic products from Earth's Best, parents can be confident their baby's utmost nutrition needs are taken care of right from the start," commented Keri Glassman, M.S., R.D., C.D.N, nutritional advisor to the Hain Celestial Group and mom of two. "Earth's Best is the brand I recommend due to its natural wholesome ingredients used for children."

About The Hain Celestial Group

The Hain Celestial Group (Nasdaq: HAIN), headquartered in Melville, NY, is a leading natural and organic products company in North America and Europe. Hain Celestial participates in almost all natural food categories with well-known brands that include Celestial Seasonings®, Terra®, Garden of Eatin'®, Health Valley®, WestSoy®, Earth's Best®, Arrowhead Mills®, MaraNatha®, SunSpire®, DeBoles®, Hain Pure Foods®, Hollywood®, Spectrum Naturals®, Spectrum Essentials®, Walnut Acres Organic®, Imagine®, Rice Dream®, Soy Dream®, Rosetto®, Ethnic Gourmet®, Yves Veggie Cuisine®, Granose®, Realeat®, Linda McCartney®, Daily Bread(TM), Lima®, Grains Noirs®, Natumi®, JASON®, Zia® Natural Skincare, Avalon Organics®, Alba Botanica®, Queen Helene®, Tushies® and TenderCare(TM). Hain Celestial has been providing "A Healthy Way of Life(TM)" since 1993. For more information, visit www.hain-celestial.com.

SOURCE The Hain Celestial Group, Inc.

PepsiCo, Inc. (NYSE: PEP), one of the world's largest food and beverage companies, today announced that it will expand its existing efforts to help reduce obesity in the United States by joining the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF).

A first-of-its-kind endeavor, the HWCF involves the collaboration of more than 40 members of the food and beverage industry, retailers and diverse non-governmental organizations, with PepsiCo serving in a leadership role. The group aims to provide and promote solutions that will help people achieve a healthy weight by balancing the calories they consume with the calories they burn. The HWCF's efforts will help provide people with the tools to achieve energy balance. These efforts will focus on three key areas: the marketplace, the workplace and schools.

"As an industry, we touch the lives of tens of millions of people every day. We are driven by the belief that by joining forces with partners across many sectors, we can make a far greater impact in the fight to reduce obesity than by working alone," said Indra Nooyi, PepsiCo chairman and chief executive officer and HWCF vice chair.

"For our part, we are committing to enhancing our efforts to offer food and beverage choices that can contribute to healthy weight. To do that, we'll offer more reduced-calorie and portion-controlled options," said Nooyi. "At the same time we will do more to educate people, particularly children, about balancing the calories they consume with those that they burn."

HWCF partners will deliver options in the Marketplace that help consumers manage their calorie intake through changes to products, packaging, labeling and marketing. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation will fund an independent, objective, scientifically based evaluation of the marketplace initiative.

In Schools, the Healthy Schools Partnership will teach lifelong healthy habits, and in the Workplace, the HWCF partners will provide enhanced programs for employees to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The schools initiative will be evaluated by the University of California at Berkeley Center for Weight and Health and the University of Kansas. Workplace programs will be overseen by the National Business Group on Health.

PepsiCo has already demonstrated success in the three focus areas:

Marketplace: PepsiCo offers consumers many low- and reduced-calorie food and beverage options. In 2009, PepsiCo launched SoBe Life Water, the first zero-calorie, naturally sweetened, vitamin-enhanced water made with PureVia, an all-natural sweetener made from the stevia plant. Additional reduced-calorie beverages include: Tropicana's Trop50, which delivers the benefits of orange juice with 50 percent less sugar and calories; and G2, a low-calorie sports drink that delivers functional sports drink hydration. Since 2007, Frito-Lay has removed 59 billion calories from its 99 cent and $1.29 single serve bags, and the company offers many portion-controlled options, including 100-calorie packs, singles and multi-packs of several products. In 2006, Quaker Oats introduced 90-calorie packs of Quaker Chewy Granola Bars and Quaker Granola Bites. PepsiCo is also providing at least 10% daily value of one or more "shortfall" nutrients (calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C or Vitamin E) in many of its offerings.

Schools: Since 2006, PepsiCo has been implementing the School Beverage and Competitive Foods Guidelines created by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. As a result, healthier food and beverage choices have been available in schools across the nation. The snack guidelines include restrictions on calories, fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar and sodium. Under the beverage guidelines, full-calorie soft drinks have been removed from K-12 schools and only lower-calorie and smaller-portioned drinks are being offered. The guidelines are responsible for a 58% reduction in the number of beverage calories shipped to schools between 2004 and 2008.

Workplace: PepsiCo was recently recognized as one of the "2009 Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles" by the National Business Group on Health for its successful HealthRoads program. PepsiCo's workplace wellness program, known as HealthRoads, provides personalized coaching, fitness and nutrition programs as well as incentives and online tools to help employees and their families achieve wellness. Its primary focus is diet, exercise and nutrition, but it also assists employees with potential health risks such as stress, tobacco use, sleep deprivation, diabetes, asthma, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. HealthRoads is a catalyst for changing behaviors and the program fosters a culture of well-being that can contribute toward a sustainable business.

About the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation

The Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation is a unique partnership between retailers, non-profit organizations, food and beverage manufacturers and trade associations aimed at helping to reduce obesity. For more information, go to www.healthyweightcommit.org.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo offers the world's largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 18 different product lines that each generate more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. Our main businesses - Frito-Lay, Quaker, Pepsi-Cola, Tropicana and Gatorade - also make hundreds of other nourishing, tasty foods and drinks that bring joy to our consumers in over 200 countries. With more than $43 billion in 2008 revenues, PepsiCo employs 198,000 people who are united by our unique commitment to sustainable growth, called Performance with Purpose. By dedicating ourselves to offering a broad array of choices for healthy, convenient and fun nourishment, reducing our environmental impact, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, PepsiCo balances strong financial returns with giving back to our communities worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.com.

SOURCE PepsiCo, Inc.

This charming town, a scant hour north of Puerto Vallarta, has lots going for its natives and tourists - lovely weather, a great surfing beach, excellent restaurants and shops and no high rise hotels that can hurt the laid-back ambience of this unique place. No wonder the town has received high praise in major travel publications.

What was lacking, according to local restaurateur Mark Alberto Holt, was a world-class tequila bar. And now Mark has fulfilled his dream in spades. He named it the SFT Tequila Bar - right on the lively town square and right next to the popular Sayulita Fish Taco restaurant that he and his wife, Dora, own.

Mark threw himself into this new venture with enthusiasm, creative energy and a passion for tequila. He has about 320 different tequilas on hand, but numbers aren't what the bar or Mark is about. Along with the many brands, Mark has collected great knowledge about this famous Mexican elixir and loves to share it with his customers. He has traveled frequently to the town of Tequilaand to the highlands near Guadalajara where he has found some of the finest and rarest of tequilas. A visit to the SFT Tequila Bar will leave you not only in high spirits, but, also, with a deeper understanding of this popular elixir. No wonder a local wag has dubbed Mark "The Ace of Agave" referring to the plant from which tequila derives.

Mark's bar is now open for the season and he plans tequila festivals, special promotions and spirituous surprises. Check out two sites for news and pleasure - www.saytequila.com and sayulitatequilajournal. The latter website is run by his amigo-in-arms, Gabbi Villarrubia, and is full of fun, facts and a bit of madness from this talented writer and tequila advocate. Salud, indeed!

SOURCE SFT Tequila Bar

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