TAMPA, Fla.  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Outback Steakhouse has been voted number one Best Steak in the 2010 Zagat National Restaurant Chain Survey.  

The winners were announced live on NBC’s TODAY Show, with the full results released on ZAGAT.com.  Over 6,500 diners participated in this survey, which included 136 of the nation’s largest restaurant chains. The survey participants eat at chain restaurants an average of 10.7 times per month.

“We are honored to be recognized once again by our customers who look to Zagat as their primary resource to the best of the best in dining options,” says Outback Steakhouse President Jeff Smith.  “We want to thank our many customers across the country for voting us as the top steak among restaurant chains in America.  All of our Outbackers work hard to provide the best service and delicious crave-able dishes made fresh to order and just the way our customers like it.”

“We are also thrilled to be recognized in Zagat’s Best Value category this year,” Smith adds.  ”At Outback Steakhouse we have an ongoing commitment to providing our customers with fresh, quality food at accessible price points.”

For more than 20 years Outback has been dedicated to providing its customers with only the finest cuts of choice steaks that have gone through a proprietary aging process to ensure unrivaled taste and tenderness.

“Our quality is a direct result of the extra steps we take in sourcing, preparing and cooking all our menu items,” says Outback Steakhouse Vice President of Research and Development Dave Ellis. “All of our beef is grain fed, aged to perfection, hand trimmed and then cooked exactly how our customers order it in our restaurants.”

For more information about the Outback Steakhouse menu and restaurant locations, please visit www.Outback.com.

About Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse starts fresh every day to create the flavors that our mates crave. Best known for grilled steaks, chicken and seafood, Outback also offers a wide variety of crisp salads and freshly made soups and sides. New creations and grilled classics are made from scratch daily using only the highest quality ingredients sourced from around the world. For more information, please visit www.outback.com.

Donut Art Competition Showcases Original Designs from Students at Eight Local Art Programs

Winning Design Featured on Limited-Edition Top of Six-count Donut Box

NEW YORK  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Dunkin’ Donuts is celebrating its 60th Anniversary as America’s all-day, every day stop for coffee and baked goods with its exciting Dunkin’ Donuts “Donut Art” competition in the New York Tri-State area*.  Nine finalist designs of original student art from New York Metro art programs will be featured in over 1,500 regional Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants — and the winning design on a limited-edition top of the six-count donut box — during the promotion running through September.

The winning design is from local Poughkeepsie resident, Ms. Brianne Seipp of Barrett Art Center in Poughkeepsie, NY — a 68-year-old retired learning disabilities teacher, first-time art student and longtime Dunkin’ Donuts fan. In addition to her design being featured on a limited-edition top of the six-count donut box, a $5,000 grant will be awarded to Barrett Art Center during a ceremony at a Dunkin’ Donuts in Poughkeepsie, NY.

“I’m going to go out and deliver Dunkin’ Donuts to my dentist, my doctor, my hair stylist…” said the humored and gracious winner, Ms. Seipp, when asked how she felt about the design being re-printed for in-store use. “We did not even initially know it was a contest; finding out only when class was over! It was so much fun, but I never expected in a million years to win.”

Ms. Seipp’s design is a watercolor showing a plate of donuts — from the best-selling Boston Kreme to a Glazed Cake Donut — alongside a cup of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee. The watercolor background is a blend of the signature Dunkin’ Donuts pink and orange colors.

New York Metro art programs were recruited to participate in the pilot “Donut Art” program celebrating 60 years of Dunkin’ Donuts history. Students were given creative license to produce original designs with sole instruction to use the iconic Dunkin’ donut as inspiration.

Eight finalists, whose artwork will be featured on an in-store window poster in regional Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants, include the following:

• Nicholas Black of Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ
• Clori Caminiti-Osso of Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ
• Jessica Chao of The College of New Jersey in Ewing, NJ
• Jillianne Chimento of Monmouth University in West Long Branch, NJ
• Meghan Maney of SUNY Orange County Community College in Middletown, NY
• Alice Slopnick of All About Art in Monroe, CT
• Theodore Williams of Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, NY
• Jacqueline Wilson of SUNY Orange County Community College in Middletown, NY

Designs were judged and finalists selected by a panel of regional Dunkin’ Donuts corporate executives and franchisees based on the following criteria: creativity in design, use of Dunkin’ Donuts signature pink and orange colors and inspiration of the iconic donut.  

“This year’s “Donut Art” competition is a new way we’re proudly recognizing our loyal Dunkin’ Donuts guests while also helping bring attention to local art programs throughout the New York Tri-State area,” said Missy Maio, Director of Field Marketing for Dunkin’ Donuts in the Central Atlantic Region. “An original student-designed donut box top will be exciting for all Dunkin’ customers as they arrive in our restaurants today.”

Dunkin’ Donuts is the largest coffee and baked goods chain in the world, selling more than 900 million donuts and Munchkins™ donut hole treats and one billion cups of hot and iced coffee every year. Today, there are more than 6,500 restaurants in 35 U.S. states and the District of Columbia and more than 2,600 international restaurants in 29 countries.

*Participating restaurants include those in the following counties:

New York: Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster, Westchester

New Jersey: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, Warren

Connecticut: Fairfield

About Dunkin’ Donuts

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, every day stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the regular/decaf coffee, iced coffee, hot flavored coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories, and the largest coffee and baked goods chain in the world. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned the No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for four years running. The company has more than 9,000 restaurants in 30 countries worldwide. In 2009, Dunkin’ Donuts’ global system-wide sales were more than $5.6 billion. Based in Canton, Massachusetts, Dunkin’ Donuts is a subsidiary of Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

IHOP Celebrates 25 “Rooty” Years With Its “Super” Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity® Promotion

GLENDALE, CA  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Twenty-five years ago, IHOP’s Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity debuted in a star-studded premiere, complete with Groucho Marx-style funny glasses. Along with other unforgettable pop culture classics from the year — such as Back to the Future, Golden Girls, Sesame Street’s Elmo and the hit song We Are the World — this child of the ’80s has only improved with age. Since it first arrived on IHOP menus, the iconic breakfast item has been center plate for millions of memorable occasions and life’s everyday victories.

In celebration of Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity’s 25^th anniversary, IHOP introduces the “Super” Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity limited time offer. Available now through October 3 at participating locations, guests can enjoy two of IHOP’s fluffy, world-famous Buttermilk pancakes topped with their choice of cool strawberry, warm blueberry or cinnamon-apple compote and creamy whipped topping. Served with a “super” combo of golden hash browns and eggs, the promotion starts at $4.99; for just a little more add crisp bacon, pork sausage links or hearty ham.

“Twenty-five years ago, the Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity appeared with an unforgettable television advertisement featuring guests wearing disguises as they ordered the funny-named dish,” said Carolyn O’Keefe, IHOP’s senior vice president, marketing. ”Now a part of the American Lexicon, the Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity continues to twist and tempt the tongues of guests, old and young alike, who crave a taste of fun that is uniquely IHOP.”

The “Super” Rooty Tooty Fresh ‘N Fruity fun continues online where guests can visit www.ihop.com to “Mask Your Mug” by digitally placing a pair of the memorable funny nose and glasses on any existing photo and upload to their Facebook profile. To add to the fun, users can create their very own “Rooty Tooty Alias” and receive a Rooty-inspired nickname to share with their friends. 

For more information or to find an IHOP restaurant near you, please visit www.ihop.com. Follow IHOP on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ihop.

ABOUT IHOP

For 52 years, the IHOP family restaurant chain has served its world famous pancakes and a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner items that are loved by people of all ages. IHOP offers its guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. The first IHOP opened in Toluca Lake, Calif. in 1958, and as of June 30, 2010, there were 1,476 IHOPs in 50 states and the District of Columbia, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale, Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates. International House of Pancakes, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN).

From September 12-14, Honor the Folks Who Started The Old Spaghetti Factory Tradition in Your Family

PORTLAND, OR  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  For 41 years, families have come to The Old Spaghetti Factory to relax, eat good food, and celebrate. On September 12-14, The Old Spaghetti Factory locations nationwide will celebrate those families by honoring grandparents with a free meal — any item on the menu!

Grandma and Grandpa can select their free meals from The Old Spaghetti Factory’s extensive menu of palate-pleasing dishes including: Spaghetti with Tomato, Meat, Mushroom or Clam Sauce; the signature Spaghetti with Mizithra Cheese; Manager’s Favorite; Spaghetti Vesuvius; Sicilian Meatballs or Italian Sausage entrees. And no meal at The Old Spaghetti Factory would be complete without a scoop of their spumoni ice cream for dessert.

“Since my family began serving complete pasta meals over 40 years ago, The Old Spaghetti Factory has been a long-time dining tradition for families,” said Chris Dussin, president of the Dussin Group. “It’s very rewarding to see kids from years ago now coming back with their parents and families of their own.”

The Old Spaghetti Factory has 39 locations, and this offer is available at all restaurants. Grandparents will receive a free meal with the purchase of a regularly priced entrée (dine-in only). For more information and to find a nearby location and hours, visit www.osf.com. 

The Old Spaghetti Factory is best known as a memorable family dining experience that offers complete meals that feature an entrée, freshly baked bread, soup or salad, milk, coffee, iced or hot tea, and ice cream at a great value. The restaurant also offers an acclaimed kids’ menu and is recognized by Parents magazine as one of the top 10 family-friendly restaurant chains in the United States.

The Old Spaghetti Factory restaurants are a privately held and family-owned business headquartered in Portland, Ore. For more information, visit www.osf.com.

BOSTON  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  UFood Restaurant Group, Inc. (OTCBB: UFFC) announced today that it has signed an area development agreement with the Robinson Hill Hospitality Group of Chicago for additional UFood Grill units at 5 major United States airports.

The development agreement follows the successful UFood Grill opening by Robinson Hill at Cleveland/Hopkins Airport in July. The Robinson Hill Hospitality Group has more than 9 years’ experience operating airport franchise food establishments.

Dee Robinson, President of the Robinson Hill Hospitality Group, said, “We are thrilled to be part of the expansion of the UFood brand to 5 more major United States airports. Our new Cleveland Hopkins Airport UFood Grill has exceeded our expectations and confirms our belief that consumers want healthier, attractively priced food options in airports and other venues. The extremely positive feedback from our guests was a driving force to enter into this agreement with UFood Grill.”

In June, UFood Restaurant Group signed a master license agreement with Hudson Group Retail LLC for UFood Grill units in 10 major U.S. airports. UFood also signed an agreement in July for the development of 35 UFood units with Congusto, L.P. a Texas based company. UFood Grills are also located in Boston’s Logan and Dallas-Fort Worth Airports as well as in other traditional locations.

George Naddaff, Chairman and CEO of UFood Restaurant Group said, “We are extremely proud of our association with Dee Robinson, President of the Robinson Hill Hospitality Group, who is also our franchisee of the new UFood Grill restaurant in the Cleveland/Hopkins Airport. The UFood brand has become very popular with travelers who frequent our restaurants now located in other major airports as well. More locations will soon be available in airports across the country. We are very excited to be expanding our UFood brand in airports and other non-traditional locations throughout the United States. Airports, colleges and hospitals are a natural fit and in demand for our concept, ‘Where Delicious Meets Nutritious.’”

UFood Restaurant Group is a franchisor and operator of fast-casual food service restaurants, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. The company is led by franchise innovator George Naddaff, who founded Boston Market and led the franchising of several companies. The UFood Grill concept was the winner of ARN’s Best New Airport Concession in 2009. Travelers, airport workers and flight crews enjoy having a healthy, nutritious and quick service food option available.

Interested investors should email investor@ufoodgrill.com to be added to the UFood Restaurant Group email distribution list.

About UFood Restaurant Group, Inc.

Headquartered in Boston, MA UFood Restaurant Group, Inc. is a franchisor and operator of fast-casual food service restaurants. UFood Grill offers healthy lifestyle alternative to consumers in the fast-casual restaurant space and is positioned to become a leading player in the “better-for-you” quick-serve restaurant category. The Company is led by franchise innovator George Naddaff, who founded Boston Market and led the franchising of several companies including Sylvan Learning Center and Ranch*1. Mr. Naddaff has assembled a veteran management team with a successful record in the franchise market. UFood is currently launching a growth plan to franchise nationwide. To learn more, visit www.ufoodgrill.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 involving known and unknown risks, delays, and uncertainties that may cause our actual results or performance to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks, delays, and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks associated with the uncertainty of future financial results, our reliance on our sole supplier, the limited diversification of our product offerings, additional financing requirements, development of new products, government approval processes, the impact of competitive products or pricing, technological changes, the effect of economic conditions and other uncertainties detailed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

OKLAHOMA CITY  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ: SONC), the nation’s largest chain of drive-in restaurants, today announced that Leonard Lieberman has retired from the Board of Directors after 21 years of service, effective August 27, 2010. The company also announced that Jeffrey Schutz, managing director of Centennial Ventures, a leading venture capital firm, has been named to the Board.

Cliff Hudson, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sonic Corp., stated, “We are very excited to welcome Jeffrey to the board and believe that his background in building and growing entrepreneurial businesses will be a valuable complement to the breadth of experience on our board. At the same time, Len has provided tremendous leadership, expertise and knowledge to the board and management team, and Sonic has benefitted substantially from his insight and wisdom. We thank Len for his dedicated service and many contributions to our company.”

Jeffrey Schutz is a managing director of Centennial Ventures, a Denver-based venture capital firm with approximately $500 million of assets currently under management. Schutz has been a general partner in seven Centennial-sponsored partnerships and involved with the start up, growth and development of approximately 50 companies over the past 23 years. Prior to joining Centennial Ventures in 1987, Schutz was Vice President and Director of PNC Venture Capital Group, an affiliate of PNC Financial. Schutz received a B.A. in economics from Middlebury College in Vermont, and an M.B.A. degree from the Darden School at the University of Virginia.

Lieberman is the former CEO of Supermarkets General Corporation and Outlet Communications. He joined the Board in December 1988, was a member of the Compensation Committee, of which he served as Chair for a number of years, and was a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

Sonic, America’s Drive-In, originally started as a hamburger and root beer stand in 1953 in Shawnee, Okla., called Top Hat Drive-In, and then changed its name to Sonic in 1959. The first drive-in to adopt the Sonic name is still serving customers in Stillwater, Okla. Sonic has more than 3,500 drive-ins coast to coast, where approximately three million customers eat every day. For more information about Sonic Corp. and its subsidiaries, visit Sonic at www.sonicdrivein.com.

Famed Coach Don Shula partners with the Roberts Family

ST LOUIS  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  NFL Hall of Fame coach Don Shula will open his newest restaurant, Shula’s 347 Grill, in St Louis at the Roberts Tower, a new high end condominium development adjacent to the Roberts Mayfair Hotel. The restaurant is expected to open in late Oct. or early Nov.

“We are excited to bring the Shula brand to St Louis,”  says Michael V. Roberts, Sr., Roberts Companies Chairman.

“We are both family owned companies which makes this partnership a great fit.”

Named in honor of Don Shula’s 347 career victories, Shula’s 347 Grill follows a long line of successful restaurants founded on the tradition of Shula’s Steak Houses. Shula’s 347 features gourmet salads, fresh specialty fish, burgers and sandwiches; and serves the best beef money can buy, The SHULA CUT® steaks. The atmosphere of the restaurant is casual, hip, and full of energy, characterized by a high-impact bar, dark wood, and multiple high-end flat panel screened televisions.  

“St Louis is the perfect choice for our next location,” said Dave Shula, President of Shula Steak Houses. “There is a rich tradition in sports and some of the best fans in the country.”

The St Louis restaurant marks the eleventh Shula’s 347 Grill in the portfolio of 31 restaurants across four brands.  Shula’s 347 Grill is located at 411 North 8th Street.  Situated on the Old Post Office Plaza, the restaurant is steps from the convention center, Edward Jones Dome, Busch Stadium, shopping, casinos, and the nightlife of the Washington Avenue strip.

Michael V. Roberts, Sr. and Steven C. Roberts are ranked among the nation’s top entrepreneurs, and over the past 20 years their professionalism and business acumen has established the Roberts Companies as widely respected property and hotel developers. Continuing this tradition, Roberts Tower is downtown St. Louis’ newest and most luxurious condominium development. The first new residential property construction on the downtown landscape in 50 years, the state of the art Roberts Tower is attached to the historic  Roberts Mayfair Hotel, and offers 55 units, including 1, 2, and 3 bedroom condos and two split level penthouses. Ballroom and meeting space can comfortably accommodate up to 800 in event space outfitted with all modern amenities, yet keeping with historic architectural charm.

“Together, the Mayfair and the Tower provide residents fashionable urban living with all the services and amenities of a full service hotel.  Shula’s first class restaurant experience is in perfect harmony with our first class modern structure,” said company President Steven Roberts.  

For more information on Roberts Companies and the Roberts Tower, visit http://www.therobertscompanies.com or www.robertstower.com.

LOS ANGELES  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  California Pizza Kitchen, Inc. (CPK) (NASDAQ: CPKI), home to the Original BBQ Chicken Pizza and other innovative hearth-baked pizzas, made-to-order pastas, creative salads, appetizers, soups, sandwiches and desserts, today announced the opening of its first restaurant in India. Opened by CPK franchise partner JSMGGC India Pvt. Ltd., a joint-venture between Mumbai-based JSM Corporation and Dubai-based Gourmet Gulf Company, it is located in the upscale Bandra Kula Complex (BKC) district of Mumbai.

BKC is a growing commercial district which hosts a variety of corporations and points of interest such as the American Embassy, NSE, Citibank and two of India’s top schools: The American School and the Dhirubai Ambani School.

The new CPK restaurant is located on the ground floor of one of the many BKC commercial complexes, Maker Maxity, which hosts numerous businesses including Reliance Industries, one of the largest companies in India, UBS, Volkswagen, Audi and Dow Jones.

The 4,000 square-foot restaurant seats approximately 180 people, including additional seating available on the covered outdoor patio. Tastefully decorated with warm colors and rich textures, the restaurant will open Monday through Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.

The open-exhibition kitchen takes center stage where guests can watch as all of the innovative creations are prepared. The menu will include a variety of items from the popular Thai Chicken Pizza and Waldorf Chicken Salad to the Kung Pao Spaghetti and Avocado Egg Rolls. The new restaurant will also feature an extensive beverage menu from its full bar, including the CPK Ultimate Margarita and other signature favorites such as the Original Recipe Mojitos and Martinis.

About California Pizza Kitchen, Inc.

California Pizza Kitchen, Inc., founded in 1985, is a leading casual dining chain featuring an imaginative line of hearth-baked pizzas, including the original BBQ Chicken Pizza, and a broad selection of distinctive pastas, salads, appetizers, soups, sandwiches and desserts. Of the chain’s 264 restaurants, 207 are company-owned and 57 operate under franchise or license agreements. There are currently 31 restaurants located internationally in India, China, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Mexico, South Korea, Guam, Indonesia and United Arab Emirates. CPK premium pizzas are also available to sports and entertainment fans at three Southern California venues including Dodger Stadium, Angel Stadium of Anaheim and STAPLES Center. Also included in the Company’s portfolio of concepts is LA Food Show Grill & Bar, which has locations in Manhattan Beach and Beverly Hills, California. The Company also has a licensing arrangement with Nestle S.A. to manufacture and distribute a line of California Pizza Kitchen premium frozen products. For more details, visit www.cpk.com.

DENVER  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Smashburger_®, a fast-casual “better burger” restaurant concept, has partnered with Bridging Culture Worldwide, a professional consulting, strategic planning and cross-cultural management service, to lead its expansion into South Korea. With Bridging Culture Worldwide’s assistance, Smashburger looks to sign its first South Korean multi unit franchise development agreement in 2011.

Smashburger’s entry into the South Korean market marks the beginning of a larger international expansion plan that includes other fast-growing economies like the Middle East, Canada, and other Asian countries. Smashburger’s product and concept has proved very appealing to consumers and successful with experienced franchise operators in the United States. International market expansion is a logical next step in Smashburger’s aggressive growth plan.

“We look forward to beginning our international expansion for Smashburger and know South Korea is a great launch pad for our ‘better burger’ concept in Asia,” says Smashburger Chairman and CEO David Prokupek. “We look forward to working with Don Southerton and Bridging Culture Worldwide to connect with multi-unit developers and operators for our expansion into South Korea.”

“As Smashburger looks to expand globally, South Korea is an excellent place to start,” says Bridging Culture Worldwide CEO Don Southerton. ”The South Korean market craves premier American brands like Smashburger and I know this concept will translate well.”

About Smashburger_®

Denver-based Smashburger_®, the country’s fastest growing “better burger” restaurant company, is designed to be every city’s favorite place for burgers. It was named a 2009 Hot Concepts! award winner by Nation’s Restaurant News. Developed and owned by private equity and concept-development firm Consumer Capital Partners (CCP), Smashburger operates and develops corporate, joint venture and franchise stores across the country. Smashburger will open more than 100 stores by 2010’s conclusion and operate more than 200 in 2011. It has sold franchise and joint venture agreements that will bring the total to more than 400 locations over the next five years. To learn more, visit www.smashburger.com.

About Consumer Capital Partners

Denver-based Consumer Capital Partners (CCP) is an innovative private investment and concept development firm focused on multi-unit retail businesses, primarily in the restaurant, food, and leisure industries. CCP has deep experience in the fields of private equity, brand, concept and product development. To learn more about CCP, please visit www.consumercp.com.

About Bridging Culture Worldwide

Bridging Culture Worldwide is a professional consulting, strategic planning, and cross-cultural management service. We provide in-depth insights into the dynamics of Korean-based global business. Moreover, we offer programs designed to help employees and management appreciate and understand the unique norms of each countries’ business culture. This training can dramatically reduce misunderstandings and stresses created by the differences in language and custom.

To learn more, go to www.bridgingculture.com.

Bonnie Rhinehardt Assumes Role

ATLANTA  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Planet Smoothie, LLC owned by Petrus Brands LLC, has named Bonnie Rhinehardt as its new president.  Bonnie Rhinehardt assumed the role of President on August 23, 2010. As president of the Planet Smoothie brand, Rhinehardt will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of operations, customer service, marketing, distribution and purchasing.

Rhinehardt has been in the hospitality business for over 20 years.  For the last 18 years, Rhinehardt was an executive with Hooters, one of the most recognized brands in the industry.  Most recently, she was responsible for the Southern Division of Hooters, including 60 company-owned restaurants.  Rhinehardt has vast experience in people development, team building, market development, community and charity involvement, as well as developing new programs that were responsible for top line sales growth and bottom line profits.  She has also been involved in developing new positions and departments for support of these programs.  During her time at Hooters, Rhinehardt has received the Presidents award 4 times, GM of the Year, Area Supervisor of the Year, Department of the Year and various others to include net profit and sales awards.

“We are very excited to welcome Bonnie Rhinehardt to our executive Planet Smoothie team,” said Petrus Brands Chief Executive Officer, Chris Morocco.  ”Adding Bonnie to our team gives us a solid foundation for operational excellence and superior customer service across the system.  Her commitment to the community is also a perfect compliment to the Planet Smoothie brand.”

“I am thrilled to be joining the Planet Smoothie team,” said Rhinehardt.  ”My heart and soul has been dedicated towards operations and customer service for the last 20 years, and after meeting the Petrus Brands [Planet Smoothie] executive team, I knew it was the right fit.  I am eager to jump in quickly and begin developing relationships with the Planet Smoothie franchisees.”

Rhinehardt resides in Smyrna and has two sons, Corey and Ryan.  She is an active member of the community and involved with various charities, including Operation Home Front and the MDA, raising over $40,000 to send over 50 kids to camp this year.

About Planet Smoothie

Planet Smoothie, a Petrus Brands company, is among the top smoothie concepts in the country, serving real fruit smoothies infused with vitamins and nutrients for active, occasion-driven consumers.  Planet Smoothie was recently named one of the “Sweet 16″ in the 2009 Fast Casual Movers and Shakers list as a brand that sets itself apart in the dessert, beverage and yogurt category.  In 2007, Planet Smoothie was recognized by Restaurant Business as a “Future 50″ concept”, one of the fastest growing up and coming concepts in the country.  Planet Smoothie currently operates more than 110 locations.  For more information and to find store locations, visit www.planetsmoothie.com.

LEBANON, Tenn.  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  As the days get shorter and the weather turns cooler, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store^® is cozying up to sweet and savory flavors straight from the harvest to the table. From August 30 through October 24, stop in at Cracker Barrel for their fall-inspired favorites.

“Fall is that time of year when families come back together around the table for some good comfort food,” said Cracker Barrel Chef Bill Kitzler. “Our Harvest Fest offerings give our guests that warm feeling of savory home cooking paired with the sweet seasonal tastes of apples and cider for a true fall flavor experience.”

Breakfast Features – Served All Day!

For a fresh start to your day, their Wholesome Mornin’ Sampler is sure to please. It starts with low-fat vanilla yogurt blended with cinnamon-spiced apples and topped with a honey oat granola mix. They serve it with a fresh-baked apple bran muffin and two farm-fresh Grade A eggs, prepared just the way you like them, plus your choice of turkey sausage patties, thick-sliced, hickory-smoked bacon, smoked sausage patties or turkey sausage patties all for just $6.99.

If your taste buds crave a seasonal twist on an old favorite, try Cracker Barrel’s Apple Streusel French Toast Breakfast. They take three slices of sweet Apple Streusel bread made with bits of real apple, dip them in eggs, grill them to a golden brown, and top them with Cinnamon Apple Dumplin’ syrup and real butter. Then they’re served with two farm-fresh Grade A eggs, cooked to order, plus your choice of their thick-sliced, hickory-smoked bacon or smoked sausage patties for just $7.29. For a smaller appetite, try the Apple Streusel French Toast only for $5.99.

For a hearty country favorite, the Country Meat n’ Biscuits is a tasty choice. Enjoy two made-from-scratch buttermilk biscuits with your choice of fried chicken tenderloin, country ham or sausage patties. They’re served with two farm-fresh Grade A eggs, cooked just the way you like them, and your choice of hashbrown casserole or warm fried apples and sawmill gravy or coarse ground grits for $5.99.

Lunch/Dinner Features – Served Daily Starting at 11 a.m.

Cracker Barrel’s Apple Herb Roast Chicken n’ Dressing is perfect for guests seeking traditional comfort food with a taste of fall. They lightly season tender half-chicken with a harvest spice rub, then oven-roast it with apple cider, Gala apples and onions. It’s served with cider-glazed cornbread dressing and your choice of any country vegetable plus made-from-scratch buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins for just $8.79.

For guests who enjoy their garden greens with a hearty twist, the Orchard Grilled Chicken Salad combines marinated, grilled chicken tenderloins, hickory-smoked bacon and blue cheese crumbles with crisp apple strips and red onions tossed in a cider glaze, all on top of a mix of fresh greens. It’s served with a made-from-scratch grilled corn muffin and a country pepper vinaigrette dressing on the side for $7.99.

If you prefer fish, try the Cracker Barrel Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout. They take two boneless Idaho trout fillets, season them up with a hint of lemon and black pepper, and grill them until they’re fork flaky. They’re served with your choice of three country vegetables plus made-from-scratch buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins all for just $9.49. For a smaller appetite, try one trout fillet and two country vegetables for only $7.39.

A great fall meal wouldn’t be complete without some sugar and spice for that sweet tooth. Always extra moist, their Carrot Cake is fresh baked and topped with a sweet cream cheese icing then covered with crunchy pecans for just $3.29.

And while you’re at Cracker Barrel, check out their fall-inspired home décor from The Family Blessings Collection and, as always, unique and nostalgic candies and gifts.

About Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n’ dumplins as well as its signature biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 593 company-owned locations in 41 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.

ATLANTA  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Church’s Chicken, the globally recognized chicken QSR chain, today announced the appointment of Louie W. Mele to its Board of Directors.

“Louie has a wealth of experience in the quick service industry,” said Mel Deane, CEO, Church’s Chicken. “His insights will be of great value to us as we continue to grow Church’s both domestically and internationally.”

“It is an honor for me to join Church’s Board of Directors,” said Louie Mele, “I look forward to working with Mel and the board and using my thirty-six years of experience to support the company’s strategy and expansion around the world.”

Louie Mele joined McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada in 1977 and assumed a variety of management roles in store operations and new product development. Years later, Louie was a member of the team responsible for the launch of McDonald’s in Italy and grew operations from two stores to more than 175 McDonald’s. He returned to the United States and in his role as vice president and regional manager his focus was on taking the lowest region in sales and turning around the business in a short amount of time, to become one of the top regions in year over year sales growth. Later, Louie led one of the top regions in the United States for profitability for three years in a row.

Louie returned to Canada in 2001 and assumed the role of EVP, chief operating officer and was responsible for 1,250 restaurants, 70,000 employees, and 275 franchisees.

In 2005, Louie was appointed president and managing director of McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada Limited, a role he held until 2008.

At present, Louie Mele is the owner and operator of Il Casale De Mele, a Bed and Breakfast in Umbria, Italy.

About Church’s Chicken

Founded in San Antonio, Texas, in 1952, Church’s Chicken® is a highly recognized brand name in the Quick Service Restaurant sector and is one of the largest quick-service chicken concepts in the World. Church’s Chicken® serves freshly prepared, high quality, flavorful chicken both Original and Spicier Spicy and tenders, with signature sides and hand-made from scratch biscuits. Church’s differentiates from its competitors in care and attention given in preparation of food, and is positioned as the value leader in the Chicken QSR category. As of March 2010, the Church’s system consisted of more than 1,700 locations worldwide in 22 countries, with system sales approaching $1.2 billion. For more information on Church’s Chicken, visit www.churchs.com.

SAN DIEGO  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Ham might be the most popular sandwich meat in the U.S., but when it comes to delivering distinctive, high-quality flavor, few meats can match the seasoned, peppered appeal of good ol’ pastrami. Fans of this beloved deli meat can now satisfy their craving at Jack in the Box® restaurants, which today launched a Pastrami Grilled Sandwich.

Made with hot pastrami, Swiss-style cheese, pickle fillets and a new deli mustard served between slices of grilled artisan bread, the new Pastrami Grilled Sandwich expands Jack’s popular line of Grilled Sandwiches to four, including two others that are also made with premium deli meats: a Deli Trio and a Turkey, Bacon & Cheddar. In addition, Jack in the Box offers a Grilled Breakfast Sandwich.

“Adding a Pastrami Grilled Sandwich to our menu is a great way to highlight the premium deli meats we use in our Grilled Sandwiches,” said Tammy Bailey, division vice president of menu marketing and promotions for Jack in the Box Inc. “This is a distinctive product for Jack in the Box – the combination of hot pastrami and our new grilled artisan bread is unique among major QSRs, while our drive-thru service and extended hours offer convenience that most delis just can’t match.”

The Pastrami Grilled Sandwich is not available in the following markets: Austin, Bakersfield, Chico/Redding, Hawaii, Houston, Sacramento, Santa Barbara and Seattle.

About Jack in the Box

Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ: JACK), based in San Diego, is a restaurant company that operates and franchises Jack in the Box® restaurants, one of the nation’s largest hamburger chains, with more than 2,200 restaurants in 18 states. Additionally, through a wholly owned subsidiary, the company operates and franchises Qdoba Mexican Grill®, a leader in fast-casual dining, with more than 500 restaurants in 43 states and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit www.jackinthebox.com.

ATLANTA  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen, a division of AFC Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: AFCE), today launched a major marketing and advertising initiative designed to underscore the results of a national taste test between Popeyes’ Spicy and Mild Bonafide® bone-in fried chicken and KFC® Original Recipe® fried chicken. The integrated campaign, which heralds the fact that Popeyes Beat KFC, is the most significant marketing push in the company’s history.

“We have a strong data-driven decision making process at Popeyes and that focus has allowed us to grow market share at a time when other brands are losing theirs,” said Cheryl Bachelder, CEO for Popeyes. “We took a careful look at case histories and the success of competitive claims from a host of other brands and used those results to drive our decision to make official what we have always known. Popeyes simply tastes better. Now that we have that independent data, we are using it to invite our guests to come in and see why America loves that chicken from Popeyes.”

The campaign pays homage to Popeyes’ rich culinary heritage, celebrating its recipe-inspired Bonafide® bone-in fried chicken that hails from “the land of good cooking” versus its competitor’s roots from the “land of fast horses.” National television spots featuring brand spokesperson “Annie” begin airing today.

“Our brand heritage is what defines us,” said Richard Lynch, CMO for Popeyes. “We are confident our authentic, distinctive food, marinated and cooked in the tradition of our Louisiana roots, is what fueled customer preference and this exciting taste test win. We know one of the keys to our continued success is to stay true to our brand heritage.”

Popeyes kicked off the campaign in New York’s Times Square last week, where hundreds of Popeyes fans donned the brand’s signature spicy orange in celebration of the taste test win. Additional campaign elements include in-store point of purchase materials and a dedicated online fan site – www.PopeyesBeatKFC.com.

About Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen

Founded in 1972 in New Orleans, Popeyes is a leader in the New Orleans segment of the foodservice industry and is the world’s second largest quick-service chicken concept. As of July 11, 2010 Popeyes had 1,945 restaurants in the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands, and 26 foreign countries. For more information, visit the Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Web site at www.popeyes.com.

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Logan’s Roadhouse, Inc. (Logan’s) announced that it has reached a definitive agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of Kelso & Company (Kelso). Logan’s is owned by affiliates of Bruckmann, Rosser, Sherrill & Co. Inc. (BRS), a New York-based private equity firm, Black Canyon Capital (Black Canyon), a Los Angeles-based private capital firm, Canyon Capital Advisors LLC (Canyon Capital), a Los Angeles-based alternative investment manager and members of Logan’s management. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Tom Vogel, Chief Executive Officer of Logan’s Roadhouse, said, “We are pleased to announce this transaction with Kelso. Kelso is committed to supporting Logan’s as we enter our next growth phase and we look forward to working closely with them as our future financial sponsor. BRS & Black Canyon have served as valuable partners to Logan’s, providing strong support for our continued growth as we’ve successfully navigated a very challenging economic environment.”

Completion of the transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

Credit Suisse and North Point Advisors acted as financial advisors to Logan’s in connection with the transaction.

Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisor to Logan’s Roadhouse and Debevoise & Plimpton LLP acted as legal advisor to Kelso & Company.

About Logan’s Roadhouse

Logan’s opened its first restaurant in 1991 in Lexington, KY, and has grown as an affordable, full service restaurant chain to 188 company-owned and 26 franchised Logan’s Roadhouse restaurants in 23 states with approximately 15,000 employees. The Company’s mission is to recreate the traditional American roadhouse by offering consumers value-oriented, high quality, “craveable” meals for lunch and dinner served in the hospitable tradition and distinctive atmosphere reminiscent of an American roadhouse of the 1930’s and 1940’s. Logan’s menu features USDA Fresh Angus steaks, fresh ground steak burgers, fresh chicken dishes and salads, fall-off-the-bone ribs, distinctive fresh-baked yeast rolls and bottomless buckets of peanuts.

About Bruckmann, Rosser, Sherrill & Co.

BRS is a New York based private equity firm with $1.4 billion of committed capital under management focused on investing in middle market consumer goods and services businesses. BRS and its principals have extensive experience investing in the restaurant industry, having completed 16 restaurant investments, including add-on acquisitions, to date. BRS’s current and former investments in the restaurant industry include investments in Logan’s Roadhouse, Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Bravo Brio Restaurant Group, Il Fornaio / Corner Bakery Café, Real Mex Restaurants, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants, California Pizza Kitchen and Au Bon Pain.

About Black Canyon Capital

Black Canyon is a Los Angeles based private capital firm that invests in private securities across the capital structure, including control and non-control private equity and structured debt securities. Since being founded in 2004, Black Canyon has invested over $1 billion in companies across diverse industries that include business services, consumer products and retail, and industrial sectors.

About Canyon Capital Advisors LLC

Canyon Capital Advisors LLC is a leading alternative asset manager headquartered in Los Angeles, California with approximately $18 billion in assets under management.

About Kelso & Company

Kelso & Company is one of the oldest and most established firms specializing in private equity investing. Since 1980, Kelso has made investments in over 100 companies with aggregate initial capitalization at close of over $35 billion. The firm is currently investing its eighth investment partnership, Kelso Investment Associates VIII, L.P., with $5.1 billion of committed capital.

Contact:

Logan’s Roadhouse
Dye, Van Mol & Lawrence Public Relations
Heather MacDonald, 615-244-1818
or
BRS
Kekst and Company
David Lilly, 212-521-4800
or
Black Canyon Capital
Black Canyon Capital
Desmond Henry, 310-272-1816
or
Kelso & Company
Kelso & Company
Lynn Alexander, 212-751-3939

Home of the Original Hamburger Targets Local Businesses with Direct Marketing Campaign

LAKE FOREST, Calif.  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Johnny Rockets announces a new partnership with Database Marketing (DBM) Group to launch a direct marketing campaign that connects Johnny Rockets venues with local businesses and their employees. In addition to attracting key customers during peak work time lunch hours, the Please Post Immediately!™ (PPI™) program allows franchise owners to tailor the marketing collateral specific to their store. The campaign also offers special deals to customers while using analytics to track the program’s success.

Initially launched in 11 markets throughout the U.S., the PPI™ program resulted in an average of 24.5 percent business customer redemption rate for Johnny Rockets during a two-month test period, compared to the typical 3 percent return seen with other mass direct mail sent to consumers at home. The program has since expanded into 52 restaurant locations. Through the PPI™ program, Johnny Rockets creates a customized plan for each market and store to reach relevant companies nearby and target potential customers at work when they are making a lunch time decision regarding where to eat.

The PPI™ marketing collateral is sent to companies in Johnny Rocket’s “customer trade area,” or the radius surrounding the restaurant that attracts people who are in walking or brief driving distance. To further entice businessmen and women seeking a quick lunch, Johnny Rockets provides the targeted companies exclusive offers through the trademarked program, which are posted in the office common areas inviting employees to enjoy the classic all-American food. The most popular offer to-date has been the “Buy One, Get One Free” coupon for the Original Hamburgers or another choice entree, which was used by more than 44.1 percent of professionals during the test period.

“With consumers at work eating out three to four meals per week, the variety of lunchtime offerings at Johnny Rockets is the perfect fit for our approach in bringing delicious meal options to businesses nearby,” said Kurt Whitmer DBM Group Executive Vice President. “Further, we research the best way to market Johnny Rockets to each business audience before implementing the program to ensure we not only attract new customers, but also help build lifelong patrons.”

“From our Original Hamburgers to our classic Tuna Melts, Johnny Rockets offers a range of foods to energize the business crowd during their lunch break,” said Johnny Rockets Director of Field Marketing Lisa Bass. “With implementing the Please Post Immediately!™ Program, we are able to effectively target a key group of people at the right time and place, while growing our presence in the community. Additionally, the unique program tracking allows us to analyze what offers were the biggest hits and improve on future incentives to service our customers better.”

For more information about Johnny Rockets franchising partnership opportunities go to www.johnnyrockets.com.

About Johnny Rockets

Since 1986, Johnny Rockets has offered the food, fun and friendliness that remind guests of timeless, feel-good Americana. Every Johnny Rockets restaurant serves simple, great-tasting food from a menu of all-American favorites, including juicy hamburgers, classic sandwiches and hand-dipped shakes and malts. It’s the place to go for fast, friendly service, flavorful food, uplifting music and relaxed, casual fun. Headquartered in Lake Forest, Calif., Johnny Rockets has 295 corporate and franchise-owned restaurants in 32 states, plus D.C. and Puerto Rico and 15 countries, including those found in Six Flags amusement parks and aboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships. Johnny Rockets is currently franchising new restaurants in most markets. To learn more about Johnny Rockets, visit www.johnnyrockets.com.

Five Grand Prize Winners Will Each Win a Trip for Four to the Latin GRAMMY Awards in Las Vegas Nov. 11th

OAK BROOK, Ill.  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  McDonald’s returns for the third consecutive year as official  sponsor of the 11th Annual Latin GRAMMY® Awards, which will broadcast live on the Univision Network from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET/PT on November 11 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. This year, McDonald’s shares the Latin GRAMMY excitement with 20 lucky fans through the “Rock Hola! Con McDonald’s” Sweepstakes, which will award five grand prize winners a trip for four to the most anticipated show of the year! Entries are now being accepted online at meencanta.com through September 30, 2010.

Sweepstakes grand prize winners will each receive round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations, VIP passes to the awards ceremony and access to the official Latin GRAMMY After Party, a $500 gift card, $50 McDonald’s Arch Card®, and $500 to enjoy a spa experience with one of their guests. All winners and guests must be at least 21 years old.

“McDonald’s is excited to return as a sponsor of the Latin GRAMMY Awards and provide the experience of a lifetime to five lucky winners and their guests to enjoy the greatest night of the year in Latin music,” said Cristina Vilella, Director of Marketing, McDonald’s.

Additional winners will receive prizes that include flip video cameras and $20 McDonald’s Arch Cards.

No purchase is necessary. See www.meencanta.com for complete details. Void where prohibited.

About McDonald’s

McDonald’s USA, LLC, is the leading foodservice provider in the United States serving a variety of wholesome foods made from quality ingredients to more than 26 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local business men and women. Customers can now log online for free at any of the 11,000 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter (@McDonalds) and Facebook (Facebook.com/McDonalds) for updates on our business, promotions and products.

About The Latin Recording Academy®

The Latin Recording Academy is an International, membership-based organization comprised of Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking recording artists, musicians, songwriters, producers and other creative and technical recording professionals. The organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life and cultural condition for Latin music and its makers. In addition to producing the Latin GRAMMY Awards to honor excellence in the recorded arts and sciences, The Latin Recording Academy provides educational and outreach programs for the Latin music community. For more information about The Latin Recording Academy, please visit www.latingrammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization’s social networks as a Twitter follower at www.twitter.com/latingrammys, and a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/latingrammys.

Limeades for Learning® funds grants for U.S. Public School Teachers for Second Year

OKLAHOMA CITY  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  Today marks the second year of SONIC Drive-In’s commitment to Limeades for Learning, a cause branding initiative that empowers consumers to direct more than $500,000 in grants to public school teachers nationwide. Thanks to SONIC’s renewed partnership with DonorsChoose.org, consumers can once again play an important role in funding classroom projects that inspire learning.

Engaging with Limeades for Learning is easier this year. Anyone with a valid e-mail address can take part by voting every day for a teacher’s project online at LimeadesForLearning.com. Another new addition is once 1 million votes or more are cast for SONIC Teacher projects by Sept. 30, SONIC will unlock an additional $100,000 donation. That means an extra week of voting Oct. 1 – 7. Teacher projects range from books and listening centers to microscopes and museum field trips. The projects with the most votes each week are awarded grants throughout the month of September.

In the first year of the program, SONIC and its franchise partners donated more than $635,000 to fund 1,457 teacher projects across the country. By October of this year, SONIC will have donated more than $1 million in supplies and learning materials over time.

“We were thrilled with the hundreds of thousands of votes cast for SONIC Teacher projects on LimeadesForLearning.com last year. Thanks to our great customers, we were able to impact many teachers and students,” said Clifford Hudson, chairman and chief executive officer for Sonic Corp.

“In its second year, we believe that Limeades for Learning is gaining momentum and anticipate that we will make a difference in even more classrooms than we did in 2009. School districts across the country are challenged to provide materials for their classrooms as they’re faced with shrinking budgets. SONIC customers understand this and we want to help in any way we can.”

Once consumers vote for a teacher’s project online, they can send notices to friends and track the project’s progress to ensure it receives as many votes as possible for funding.  An interactive map allows visitors to view the number of teacher projects and dollars donated in real-time nationally and by city or state.  As of Aug. 30, more than 6,000 teacher projects have been requested through Limeades for Learning.

For more information on Limeades for Learning and how teachers, students and customers can get involved, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

About SONIC Drive-In

SONIC, America’s Drive-In (Nasdaq: SONC) started as a hamburger and root beer stand in 1953 in Shawnee, Okla., called Top Hat Drive-In, and then changed its name to SONIC in 1959. The first drive-in to adopt the SONIC name is still serving customers in Stillwater, Okla. As the nation’s largest chain of drive-in restaurants, SONIC has more than 3,500 drive-ins in 42 states coast to coast. More than 3 million customers eat at SONIC every day; and with more drink combinations than any other quick-service restaurant – more than 168,000 – SONIC is Your Ultimate Drink Stop®. For more information about Sonic Corp. and its subsidiaries, visit SONIC at www.sonicdrivein.com. Through Limeades for Learning, SONIC and its franchise partners have donated more than $638,000 dollars to public school classrooms in local communities across the country. Visit www.limeadesforlearning.com to learn more about SONIC’s commitment to education and the upcoming fall 2010 campaign.

About DonorsChoose.org

Founded in 2000, DonorsChoose.org is a nonprofit Web site where public school teachers describe specific educational projects for their students, and donors can choose the projects they want to support. After completing a project, the donor hears back from the classroom they supported in the form of photographs and teacher thank-you letters. To date, 103,000 public and charter school teachers have used the site to secure funding for $ 36.4 million in books, art supplies, technology, and other resources that their students need to learn. Through DonorsChoose.org, individuals from all walks of life have helped 2.3 million students.

Contact:
Sarah Ferguson
816-423-6061
SFerguson@barkleyus.com

TUCSON  (RestaurantNewsRelease.com)  More than 40 restaurants throughout metropolitan Tucson will be serving three-course meals at special prices during Arizona Restaurant Week, Sept. 18 until the 26.

This is the second time Arizona Restaurant Week has taken place in the region and the third year the metropolitan Phoenix has hosted the event.

The Arizona Restaurant Association introduced the nine-day event to Arizona to entice diners to try some of the region’s finest cuisine at a set price, which will be $19, $29 or $39 per person, excluding tax and tip. Some restaurants are including an alcoholic beverage in the fixed price.

“Arizona Restaurant Week is an enjoyable way to dine out in and around Tucson without breaking the bank,” said Steve Chucri, president and chief executive officer of the Arizona Restaurant Association. “With so many local restaurants offering a variety of delicious cuisines, there is definitely a delicious experience awaiting everyone.”

Arizona Restaurant Week also has created an extensive social media presence, with regular updates about the event being posted on the Facebook (www.facebook.com/arizonarestaurantweek) Twitter (www.twitter.com/azrestaurantwk) and YouTube (www.youtube.com/user/AZRestaurantWeek) platforms.

Diners can even find out insider tips about participating restaurants and their menu offerings on the restaurant week’s new Foursquare account (www.foursquare.com/user/azrestaurantwk), which is a location-based social networking website that is gaining popularity.

“Our guests and restaurants are becoming extremely active with social media and we want them to be able to find out all the latest news and information about Arizona Restaurant Week in a way they prefer,” said Sara Anderson, marketing and events manager for the Arizona Restaurant Association.

For more information about Arizona Restaurant Week, visit http://www.arizonarestaurantweek.com.

About the Arizona Restaurant Association

Dedicated to educating Arizona’s restaurant industry as the leading resource for information regarding the industry’s latest trends, management techniques and regulations, the Arizona Restaurant Association serves as the legislative liaison for Arizona’s restaurants representing the interests of more than 11,000 foodservice establishments at the state legislature, county governments and municipalities. For more information, visit http://www.azrestaurant.org or call 888-661-DINE (3463).