Press Release – Big Boy Names New CEO

26 01 2009

From a Big Boy Restaurants Interntaional, LLC press release…..

WARREN, Mich. –  Keith E. Sirois, a food service industry leader with 35 years of experience, was selected as chief executive officer of Big Boy Restaurants International, LLC. Sirois, 57, begins his new role Monday, Jan. 26, at company headquarters in Warren, Mich.

The appointment, announced today by chairman Robert Liggett Jr., completes a national search and four-month transition while board member Jim Jensen served as interim CEO.

Big Boy strategic planning and operating responsibilities now will be overseen by a business veteran whose career spans multiple restaurant concepts — including family dining and QSR. His most recent positions were at Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, where Sirois was president and CEO of the publicly owned franchisor and owner-operator of an 800-store dual brand system.

“We’re very fortunate to add Keith Sirois, a seasoned, successful restaurant chief executive to our leadership,” Liggett says. “He brings hands-on knowledge of franchise and company-owned restaurants, as well as a strategic vision and leadership for continuing our growth initiatives at Big Boy. Keith has an impressive record of sales growth, franchise development and team-building.”

Big Boy is an enduring icon of Americana with a widely recognized brand symbol holding a double-decker cheeseburger. The company is pursuing aggressive growth in new and existing markets. In California, where the first Bob’s Big Boy opened in 1936, a location with a drive-through lane is planned in the Los Angeles suburb of Downey — a prototype for a new customer service option. Read the rest of this entry »


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , ,
Categories : Food News, Michigan, Press Releases

Press Release – New Coffee Line at Panera Bread

22 01 2009

I’ve been told all three Lansing area Panera Bread will be participating in this and the funds they raise will go to the Mid-Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross…..

Panera Bread® to Celebrate Breakfast
With Free Cups of its New Coffee and Samples of New Products
Panera Bread to Support Local Communities by Raising Funds for Operation Dough-Nation® Recipients

Richmond Heights, MO, January 22, 2009 – Something big is brewing at Panera Bread and everyone’s invited. On Wednesday, January 28, Panera Bread bakery-cafes throughout the country are inviting customers to celebrate Panera’s new breakfast experience by sharing free cups of its new Light and Dark Roast coffees, as well as samples of its three grilled breakfast sandwiches and new Strawberry Granola Parfait.

To Share the Warmth with the local community, Panera Bread will also be inviting customers to donate a dollar on January 28 to help support its Operation Dough-Nation Community BreadboxTM program. Participating bakery-cafes will join the celebration by matching customer donations made on that day. Donations to Panera’s Community Breadboxes support local programs that address community needs. Through its Operation Dough-Nation effort, Panera Bread bakery-cafes collectively donated a retail value of more than $40 million worth of bread and baked goods in 2007 to charitable organizations helping to address the need for food distribution in its local communities.
“We are very proud of what we have achieved at breakfast at Panera,” said Ronald Shaich, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Panera Bread. “We’re looking forward to celebrating breakfast with our customers and joining them in supporting our local communities.”

Panera Bread has been working for more than two years to perfect its two unique new coffee blends — a Light Roast and a Dark Roast. The Light Roast Coffee is a new blend of some of the finest South and Central American beans, roasted lighter for a smooth, classic taste. The Dark Roast Coffee is a new blend of top Costa Rican beans, created for customers who prefer a robust, balanced, full-bodied coffee. All Panera Bread bakery-cafes will continue to carry its current Hazelnut and Decaffeinated coffee blends, as well as a selection of specialty Espresso and Espresso-based drinks expertly prepared by trained baristas.
Read the rest of this entry »


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , , , ,
Categories : Food News, Michigan, Press Releases

Press Release – Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina coming to Mid-Michigan?

21 01 2009

Got this press release from Charlotte, NC based Salsarita’s Inc. in my inbox this evening.  They’re a chain I have never heard of, but they have Michigan locations in Allen Park, Ann Arbor, Brighton, Detroit, Macomb, and Troy

SALSARITA’S TO TURN UP THE HEAT IN MICHIGAN
Fast-Casual Mexican Chain Targets Lansing, Flint and Jackson for Growth

(Lansing, MI)—Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina, one of the nation’s quickest-growing, fast-casual Mexican restaurant chains, has plans to add at least 35 locations throughout the state over the next few years. They are concentrating their efforts in Lansing, Flint, and Jackson. These locations will join seven existing Salsarita’s in the state. A fast-casual restaurant, Salsarita’s specializes in serving made-to-order burritos, tacos, tortilla pizzas, taco salads and more made from the freshest ingredients and served up in an inviting, festive atmosphere or off-site via a convenient catering service.

“Lansing, Flint and Jackson are fresh and exciting places, just like Salsarita’s,” said Salsarita’s president and CEO Paul Mangiamele. “I think it will be a great addition to their local dining scenes.”

Lunch accounts for about 60 percent of Salsarita’s sales, and service is always fast and friendly. Three to four orders can be filled per minute – meaning that the 20th person in line can be served in five minutes – and the average check is $7.75. Salsarita’s makes sure its guests’ needs are met in other ways, too. For the time-crunched family looking for a delicious home-meal replacement, take-home Taco Bar provides all the fixings for four, six or eight people. A complete catering program is also available for groups from 15 to over 150.

Founded in 2000 in Charlotte, North Carolina by multi-unit franchisee Bruce Willette, Salsarita’s has 78 restaurants in 18 states and expects to end 2009 with over 100 locations. Salsarita’s currently has development engagements in excess of 100 additional units and expects to grow to 200 restaurants by 2012. In 2007, the chain topped Restaurant Business’ list of The Future 50, which ranks the fastest-growing restaurant chains in America. With new locations opening across the country, Salsarita’s is a front-runner in the fresh-Mexican category, a recipient of numerous Franchise 500® rankings and a brand that’s quickly gaining recognition for its quality product and legendary hospitality. Read the rest of this entry »


Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: , , , , , , ,
Categories : Food News, Michigan

Press Release – Downtown Lansing Market Study

6 01 2009

From a City of Lansing Press Release….

Public Welcomed to Be Part of Downtown Lansing’s Future!
Downtown Lansing Conducts Extensive Market Study

“Market studies are imperative to successful economic development—which translates into jobs! Downtown Lansing has not had a market study done in nearly ten years.” acknowledged Bob Trezise, Jr., President and CEO of the Lansing Economic Development Corporation. “Since downtown Lansing has dramatically changed over the last three years, to the tune of over $500 million in new private investment, it is the right time to conduct a new downtown market study and keep our momentum going strong and in the smart direction.”

“Downtown Lansing is a rich urban environment where we want to foster creativity and growth, while maintaining the character and history of the district.” stated Mindy Biladeau, Executive Director of the Lansing Principal Shopping District. “Understanding the experiences and reflections of everyone in the public is vital to planning its future.”

The Lansing Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) has commissioned a Downtown Lansing Market Study and Strategies project with the Downtown Professionals Network (DPN) to accurately understand the value and future of Downtown Lansing. As a part of the study, a public workshop will be held on Wednesday, January 7, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the Governor’s Room of the Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave.

“Market studies are imperative to successful economic development—which translates into jobs! Downtown Lansing has not had a market study done in nearly ten years.” acknowledged Bob Trezise, Jr., President and CEO of the Lansing Economic Development Corporation. “Since downtown Lansing has dramatically changed over the last three years, to the tune of over $500 million in new private investment, it is the right time to conduct a new downtown market study and keep our momentum going strong and in the smart direction.”

The Market study process has been designed to provide a current snapshot of downtown Lansing today and to offer a glimpse of downtown’s potential and opportunities for the future in terms of business, residential and new market prospects.

“Downtown Lansing is a rich urban environment where we want to foster creativity and growth, while maintaining the character and history of the district.” stated Mindy Biladeau, Executive Director of the Lansing Principal Shopping District. “Understanding the experiences and reflections of everyone in the public is vital to planning its future.” Read the rest of this entry »


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , ,
Categories : Downtown, Food News, Lansing, Michigan, Press Releases

Press Release – 621 is NOT Closed Permanently

5 01 2009

I hadn’t even heard this rumor, but if they’re sending out press releases to local media, there must be something going around.  Apparently they are not closed permanently….just temporarily while they renovate.

From a Brant Johnson & Associates press release….

621, Lansing’s downtown hotspot, is temporarily closed for remodeling.

621 will be closed for approximately 60 days for modernization of the restaurant/bar, according to Julian Darden, MJJJ Inc., owner and operator.

Julian “JJ” Darden says, “For over 5years of ownership, 621 appreciates the loyal patronage and support of Lansing. It has been a blessing to provide entertainment services to the Lansing community. However, it is important to modernize our establishment in order to reflect the revitalization of the New Downtown Lansing area. And 621 looks forward to being the consistent Downtown Nightspot. ”

Within the past 5 years 621 was voted “the BEST” in a number of categories for Lansing Entertainment, including Best Martini Bar. Downtown patrons and Lugnut goers have been enjoying 621 for over 10 years.

621 asks the Lansing community to be patience and cooperative as these changes are taking place. 621 is eager to have a prosperous 2009.


Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Bar, Downtown, Food News, Lansing, Michigan, Press Releases

Press Release – Bottle Bill Sent to Governor

19 12 2008

From a Michigan Senate press release –

Bills to stop bottle deposit fraud sent to governor

LANSING — Legislation to help prevent Michigan from losing more than $10 million annually in fraudulent bottle deposit refunds is on its way to the governor, said bill sponsors Sens. Ron Jelinek and Cameron S. Brown.

The bipartisan, bicameral package of legislation requires reverse vending machines (RVM) to be retrofitted with new technology to prevent out-of-state bottles and cans from being returned in Michigan for the 10-cent deposit.

“Today is a great day for the state and for our retailers along the border who are taking the brunt of the fraud and will now have a means of preventing it from happening,” said Jelinek, R-Three Oaks. “This new technology will do wonders to keep out-of-state containers from being redeemed in Michigan and to keep state money in the state.”

The legislation:

> Requires unique markings on returnable beverage containers sold in Michigan designating them  as Michigan-only;

> Requires reverse vending machines used in Michigan to correctly identify and reject non-Michigan bought beverage containers;

> Establishes a fund to help reimburse manufacturers for the costs of the RVM retrofits in the two tiers of counties along Michigan’s southern border as required by the new law; and

> Revises and adds new penalties for consumers who return and dealers who accept out-of-state containers.

“This problem has been neglected for far too long and is especially acute along the border counties,” said Brown, R-Fawn River Twp. “As chair of the Michigan Beverage Container and Recycling Task Force, I am pleased to see this legislative package advance to the governor. Addressing fraudulent redemptions was a key component of the task force’s 2003 report and these bills will help collect revenue the state is currently losing. They will also help retailers who administer the bottle returns by paying for the cost of the upgrades to their reverse vending machines.”

The bills in the package are Senate Bills 1532 and 1648 and House Bills 5147, 6441 and 6442.


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Food News, Michigan, Politics, Press Releases

Press Release – City Market Public Meeting

5 12 2008

From a LEPFA press release..

PUBLIC VIEWING OF LANSING CITY MARKET SCHEMATIC DESIGNS DEC. 18

Lansing, MI— Officials will hold a public meeting in order to gain further input on proposed designs of the new Lansing City Market. The meeting will occur on Thursday, December 18, at 6:00p.m. in the Governor’s Room at the Lansing Center, 333 E. Michigan Ave..

Studio Intrigue Architects, a Lansing-based firm, has been selected to design the new Market. The firm has held two charrettes with the City Market Vendors Association to generate and prioritize concepts for the proposed design. Those ideas, along with suggestions from previous public charrettes, a USDA architect, Michigan State University specialists and LEPFA management have been transformed by Studio Intrigue into design schematics.

“The use of sustainable and ‘green’ technology principles, maintaining the local character, and soliciting input from surrounding businesses and Lansing residents, are all critical to the overall vision of this plan,” said Eric Hart, Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA) President and CEO. “The meeting will further discussion of the designs proposed for the market,” Hart continued. All members of the community are encouraged to attend the December 18 presentation and participate in the process.

“We want to create a market that is an integral piece of both the downtown landscape and riverfront
re-development. Our hope is that it will fit Lansing’s vision for the future. To do that, we need to rely on public involvement and feedback,” Hart said.

The historic Lansing City Market is managed by LEPFA and was established by the City of Lansing in 1909. It has been located at the corner of Cedar Street and Shiawassee since 1938. It is home to high-quality local farmers, food merchants and artisans that bring their goods to sell to the public in a warm, family-friendly environment. Vendors provide the best-in-quality items at reasonable prices in a unique and inviting atmosphere. Visit the Lansing City Market to experience our personal touch while shopping for the freshest, finest, local products available in the region. http://www.lansingcitymarket.com

-# # #-

 


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Food News, Lansing, Michigan, Press Releases

Press Release – Grand Rapids International Wine & Food Festival

21 11 2008

From a Van Andel Arena newsletter…


Friday, Nov. 21: 2:00 PM- 9:00 PM
Saturday, Nov. 22: Noon-9:00 PM
Sunday, Nov. 23: Noon- 5:00 PM
DeVos Place®

 Designed to be Michigan’s premier wine and food experience, this festival will bring together wineries from around the world along with culinary experts of West Michigan.

For more information please visit GRWineFestival.com .

 FEATURES!

  • More than 500 wines from as many as 100 wineries around the world
  • Appearance by nationally syndicated PBS chef Eric Villegas
  • More than 100 Michigan-made beers, wines, ciders, and spirits
  • Grand Rapid’s top restaurants like Tre-Cugini, six-one-six, Cygnus, Louis Benton, and The Monkey Bar inside The BOB 

 Click Here to purchase tickets
Tickets are also available at the DeVos Place box office, Ticketmaster ticket centers and charge by phone: 616.456.3333
Sampling tickets will be available at the door and can be redeemed at wine and food booths.
*No one under the age of 21 will be permited.


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , , , ,
Categories : Food News, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Old Town Compassionate Feast

21 11 2008

From an Old Town Commercial Association Press Release….

OLD TOWN PREPARES FOR ANOTHER COMPASSIONATE FEAST
100 local families to receive Thanksgiving baskets

Old Town, Lansing, Mich.- The Old Town Commercial Association (OTCA) is starting the
holiday season with the eighth annual Compassionate Feast, a program dedicated to supplying 100 local families under the federal poverty line with all the ingredients necessary to make a traditional Thanksgiving feast in their own home. Thanksgiving baskets will be distributed to local pre-qualified families on Monday, November 24 at the North Presbyterian Church, located at 108 West Grand River in Lansing’s historic Old Town district. Volunteers will sort, pack and distribute the food to local families between 9a.m. and 6p.m.The OTCA is still raising money to purchase groceries for the baskets. Compassionate Feast is a
community event, and could not be possible without the generous donations given every year from local businesses and community members. Every penny collected goes to purchase food. The costs are anticipated to be approximately $7,000 for this year’s baskets. People interested in donating are asked to contact the OTCA at 517.485.4283 for additional information.

In partnership with Head Start, Cristo Rey and EVE Inc., the OTCA strives to find families who
need the Thanksgiving baskets the most. The families are pre-qualified, contacted and confirmed in the weeks prior to the event. With the help of the West Saginaw Meijer, The OTCA will purchase food based on each individual family and their needs.

“We’ve had some great people step up to help us this year,” said Jamie Schriner-Hooper, executive director of the OTCA. “In addition to monetary donations, we’ve had a few unique donations. Troppo donated 50 turkeys, which would have cost us about $1,000; October Moon donated food and baby blankets. We also received in-kind donations from Great Harvest Bread Company, Grand Traverse Pie Company, TechSmith and Paramount Coffee.”

Now in its eigth year, the program was started by David Such, owner of Such Video, a video
production company in Old Town. Working as a young photographer on a story about a soup
kitchen during the Thanksgiving holiday provided Such with the inspiration for Compassionate
Feast.

 


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Food News, Lansing, Michigan, Old Town

Press Release – Thanksgiving Feast under $30

20 11 2008

From a press release from Aldi…..

Get Thanksgiving Feast for Less Than $30 at ALDI
Grocer beats discounters, big box by 16% to 24%,
traditional supermarkets by 30% to 40%

Batavia, Ill. (Nov. 19, 2008) – For shoppers looking to save money this season without compromising holiday traditions, select assortment discount grocer, ALDI, offers a complete Thanksgiving meal for a family of four for less than $30.

“This holiday season, we hope shoppers can focus on enjoying time with family and friends – not worrying about how to squeeze a Thanksgiving feast into already tightening budgets,” said Joan Kavanaugh, vice president of corporate purchasing. “As we’re helping shoppers cut their grocery bills in half, we’re grateful to have some of the most loyal customers in the industry.”

While food costs continue to rise nationally, you can still get a less than $30 Thanksgiving meal from ALDI that includes:

· 14 lb. Butterball Whole Turkey ($.99 per lb.) $13.86

· Chef’s Cupboard Stuffing Mix (6 oz.) $.79 each

· Chef’s Cupboard Gravy (12 oz.) $1.19 each

· Fit & Active Dried Cranberries (6 oz) $1.19 each

· L’oven Fresh Classic Dinner Rolls (12 ct.) $1.69 each

· Happy Harvest Extra Fine Frozen Green Beans (16 oz.) $.1.39 each

· Chef’s Cupboard Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz.) $.49 each

· Chef’s Cupboard French Fried Onions (6 oz.) $1.99 each

· Happy Harvest Cut Sweet Potatoes (15 oz.) $.69 each

· Belmont Deep Dish Pies – apple, peach or berry (42 oz.) $4.49 each

· Sundae Shoppe Whipped Topping (8 oz.) $.69 each

For an extra $4.99, you can also get a bottle of Burlwood wine to enjoy with your meal.

Beginning Nov. 23, ALDI also will offer a selection of appetizers for under $4, including Antoinette Brie or Camembert cheese, crab and shrimp or shrimp cakes and wheat crackers. Appetizers and other special purchase items vary weekly and are available while supplies last. Customers also can visit the Special Purchase section online and subscribe to ALDI’s e-mail newsletter to get e-alerts about upcoming specials for food and other merchandise.

Visit the ALDI Meal Planner at http://www.aldi.us for helpful holiday recipes to use with ALDI select brand items, such as: roast turkey with cranberry sausage stuffing, cranberry glazed ham, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, pecan pie and apple pie.


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Food News, Grocery

« Previous Entries Next Entries »