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<!--Generated by Squarespace Site Server v5.0.0 (http://www.squarespace.com/) on Thu, 21 Aug 2008 05:04:37 GMT--><rdf:RDF xmlns:rdf="http://www.w3.org/1999/02/22-rdf-syntax-ns#" xmlns:rss="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:admin="http://webns.net/mvcb/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:cc="http://web.resource.org/cc/"><rss:channel rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/"><rss:title>Journal</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/</rss:link><rss:description></rss:description><dc:language>en-US</dc:language><dc:date>2008-08-21T05:04:37Z</dc:date><admin:generatorAgent rdf:resource="http://www.squarespace.com/">Squarespace Site Server v5.0.0 (http://www.squarespace.com/)</admin:generatorAgent><rss:items><rdf:Seq><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/y-u-m-m-i-e-chocolates.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/nielsen-massey-vanillas.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/tortuga-rum-cake-company.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/wing-time-buffalo-wing-sauces.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/28/twin-hens.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/traverse-bay-farms.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/summer-kitchen-fine-foods-inc.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/stella-cadente-olive-oil.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/solomons-gourmet-cookies.html"/><rdf:li rdf:resource="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/mighty-leaf-tea.html"/></rdf:Seq></rss:items></rss:channel><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/y-u-m-m-i-e-chocolates.html"><rss:title>y u m m i e Chocolates</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/y-u-m-m-i-e-chocolates.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-08-04T02:23:18Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> <span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/yummie_logo.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217817019221"></span></span> <strong>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Laura WaitzeZuckerman</p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:<br><br></strong> <p>I am a chocolatier. I am the owner and president of yummie chocolates. 4 years ago I started the company. Since that time, I and yummie have been featured on the Rachael Ray Show, The Food Network's Roker on the Road Show, Modern Bride Magazine, NJ Monthly Magazine, NJ Savvy Magazine and many many more media outlets. </p> <p>I love making chocolate and seeing the smiles that come from eating a yummie chocolate. Each piece is handcrafted with Swiss and Belgium chocolate.I have had no formal education for being in the kitchen, although I have always had a passion for cooking. My business started after I started to make chocolates for family and friends. And as they say, the rest is history. I enjoy making new concoctions. Each holiday season I bring back some of the recipes that I are no longer on the website. People still talk about "vacca dream." It is a white chocolate based treat with popcorn and marshmallow. It is broken into pieces like a bark. </p> <p>I am also a mother of two children. A boy who is 6 and a girl who is 4. Balancing being a mother, a wife and an entrepreneur is exciting and challenging. But, I like challenges and wouldn't want my life any other way. <br></p> <p>I have recently also started to make jewelry and photo journal books. Both of which I have started to sell. Each hobby is fun lets me express myself. It is also wonderful for my children to see what their mother can accomplish.</p> <p><strong>About the y u m m i e Chocolates Biz:</strong></p><p>I sell my chocolates all over the world to individuals, gourmet food stores, gift shops and on other websites. Having a business is a wonderful gift! It wouldn't be possible if I was not surrounded by people who support my creativity.<br></p><strong>Founded:<br><br></strong>2004<br><br><strong>Number of Employees:<br></strong><br>1<br><strong><br>Clients:<br><br></strong>Whole Foods<br><br><strong>Marketing Strategies:<br><br></strong><p>Work my butt off! Call anyone from any media outlet. At some point, someone will listen to you.</p> <span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/yummie_chocolates.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217818905059"></span></span> <strong>Fun Food Story:<br><br></strong><p>I had a chocolate called "Simby's Bark."</p> <p>So, how did I come up with the name? I always like to use fun and whimsical names for each chocolate confection. Simby was my dog and obviously dogs bark. So, since the confection was a bark, I thought it would be cute to have a play on words, so to speak. The confection was Swiss dark chocolate (so creamy and so amazing!) and popcorn. It was a simple idea, but instead of it just being popcorn drizzled with chocolate, it was chocolate that had popcorn mixed in. The taste was phenomenal! The Swiss dark chocolate had such a wonderful flavor and added to the salty popcorn, pure perfection! So, that is my silly fun food story with how I came up with the name for "Simby's Bark."</p><strong>Laura knew y u m m i e Chocolates was a hit when:<br><br></strong>I was on the Roker on the Road Show<br><br><strong>In the News: <br></strong><br>Rachel Ray Show, Food Network, The Culinary podcast, Modern Bride Magazine, NJ Monthly Magazine, NJ Savvy Magazine, The Fancy Food and Culinary Magazine (4 times), many blog sites, local New Jersey newspapers, The Jewish Exponent, The Jewish Times<br>&nbsp;<br> <strong>Why is Laura in the Food Biz?<br><br></strong><p>Food, I love it! Isn't the way to someone's heart through their stomach?</p> <p><strong>Words from the Wise:</strong></p> <p>My words from the wise are go for your dreams. There will always be someone who will tell you why you SHOULDN'T do it, but if you are a strong person, you will figure out how to do it. </p> <p>Have faith in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you. </p> <p>As my father always told me "you don't have anything to lose if you have anything in the first place."</p> <p>What I don't like about business in general is that to advertise your product, it is very expensive. You must be creative to get your name out there if you have a small budget.</p><strong>Final Thoughts from Laura:</strong><br> <br> <p>One more thing, I wouldn't be were I am today without my father. He has given me confidence to believe in myself and the strength to always persevere. My husband has given me the opportunity to fulfill my dreams and my children give me delight. My mother has given me an ear regardless of the subject matter and my friends have given me their loyalty and support. All of these factors make being a stay at home mother, wife and entrepreneur fun and worth the challenges that I deal with each and every day.</p> <strong>Contacting y u m m i e Chocolates:<br><br></strong>y u m m i e Chocolates<br>15 Heather Hill Way<br>Bridgewater, NJ 08807<br><span fn_index="0" isdynflag="1" info="Call +19082851494;0;+19082851494;1;" onmouseup="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 0,0,0)" onmousedown="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 1,0,0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 1,0,0);skype_active=SkypeCheckCallButton(this);" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 0,0,0);HideSkypeMenu();" context="(908) 285-1494" reallyisdynflag="1" fax="0" rtl="false" class="skype_tb_injection" id="__skype_highlight_id"><span title="Skype actions" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0);" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1);" class="skype_tb_injection_left" id="__skype_highlight_id_left"><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_l.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_l.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 7px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span><span class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_img"><img  style="width: 16px;" src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/famfamfam/us.gif" class="skype_tb_img_flag " name="skype_tb_img_f0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/arrow.gif" class="skype_tb_img_arrow " name="skype_tb_img_a0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span></span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><span title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +19082851494" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1)" class="skype_tb_injection_right" id="__skype_highlight_id_right"><span class="skype_tb_innerText" id="__skype_highlight_id_innerText"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1">(908) 285-1494</span><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_r.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_right_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_r.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 19px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span></span></span><br>Website: <a href="http://www.yummiechocolates.com">y u m m i e Chocolates</a><br> <br>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/nielsen-massey-vanillas.html"><rss:title>Nielsen-Massey Vanillas</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/nielsen-massey-vanillas.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-08-04T01:49:34Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> <span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/nielson_logo.gif?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217814661878"></span></span> <strong>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Matt Nielsen</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong></p> <p>With vanilla in his blood, so to speak, Matt Nielsen decided at an early age that his life's work would be in the family business, Nielsen-Massey Vanillas, Inc. As third-generation owner/manager, Matt's main responsibilities include all operational activities at the company's two plants, in Waukegan, Illinois and Leeuwarden, Netherlands, as well as sales of all retail and foodservice products worldwide. Matt is a graduate of Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, PA; a member of the Board of Directors of the NASFT; a member of the Board of Directors of the Alliance for Illinois Manufacturing and co-chair of its Business Development Model Committee; and a member of the Loyola University Family Business Center (Nielsen-Massey received the Center's Small Family Business of the Year Award in 2006). Inn 2006, Gourmet News magazine selected Matt as one of their top "20 under 40" in the specialty food industry.<br></p> <p><strong>About the Nielsen-Massey Vanillas Biz:</strong></p> <p>Nielsen-Massey is recognized as the premier brand in pure vanillas and flavors for the specialty retail, distribution, foodservice and industrial markets. Since 1907, Nielsen-Massey Vanillas has specialized in pure vanilla. This family owned and managed company offers a full line of Pure Vanilla products including vanilla beans and extract from Madagascar, Tahiti, Mexico and Indonesia; sugar and alcohol-free Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Powder; Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Bean Paste and certified Organic Pure Vanilla Extract. Their unique cold process method of extraction protects the over 250 different flavor components found in vanilla beans from the damaging effects of heat or pressure during extraction. The process takes 3-5 weeks to produce a single batch and allows them to extract the total bouquet of flavor providing a true vanilla profile. In 2005 the company introduced superior quality, all natural Pure Chocolate, Pure Almond, Pure Lemon, Pure Coffee, Pure Orange, Pure Peppermint Extracts, Rose Water and Orange Blossom Water ideal for adding an extra touch of flavor to your favorite recipe. All of their products are 100% all natural, kosher certified and gluten-free. Nielsen-Massey Vanillas corporate headquarters are located in Waukegan, Illinois with production facilities in Waukegan and in Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.</p> <p><strong>Founded:</strong></p><p>1907</p> <p><strong>Number of Employees:</strong></p><p>20+ worldwide<br></p><p><strong>Clients:</strong><br></p><p>Retail stores, Foodservice, Manufacturers</p><p><strong>Marketing Strategies:</strong></p>PR with consumer journals, trade advertising, sponsorships<br><br> <span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/nielson_vanilla.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217815565653"></span></span> <strong>Fun Food Story:<br><br></strong>We started our retail business by having my mom hand fill and label bottles on our kitchen table.<br><strong><br>Matt knew Nielsen-Massey Vanillas was a hit when:<br><br></strong>When Chuck Williams called us to put our product in his "small" catalogue and stores in 1984.<br><strong><br>In the News:<br></strong> <br><p>Food Network, Bon Appetit, Fine Cooking, Gourmet, Food Arts, etc...</p><strong>Why is Matt in the Food Business?<br><br></strong><p>It's in the blood!<br></p> <strong>Words from the Wise (what you don't like about the biz):<br><br></strong> <p>The instability of raw material costs are hard to control and forecast!<br></p><p><strong>Contacting Nielsen-Massey Vanillas:</strong></p><p>Nielsen-Massey Vanillas<br>1550 Shields Drive<br>Waukegan, IL 60085<br><span fn_index="0" isdynflag="1" info="Call +18475781550;0;+18475781550;0;" onmouseup="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 0,0,0)" onmousedown="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 1,0,0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 1,0,0);skype_active=SkypeCheckCallButton(this);" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 0,0,0);HideSkypeMenu();" context="(847) 578-1550" reallyisdynflag="1" fax="0" rtl="false" class="skype_tb_injection" id="__skype_highlight_id"><span title="Skype actions" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0);" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1);" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_injection_left" id="__skype_highlight_id_left"><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_l.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_l.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 7px;" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span><span class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_img"><img  style="width: 16px;" src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/famfamfam/us.gif" class="skype_tb_img_flag " name="skype_tb_img_f0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/arrow.gif" class="skype_tb_img_arrow " name="skype_tb_img_a0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span></span><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span><span title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +18475781550" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1)" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_injection_right" id="__skype_highlight_id_right"><span class="skype_tb_innerText" id="__skype_highlight_id_innerText"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1">(847) 578-1550</span><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_r.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_right_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_r.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 19px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span></span></span><br>Website: <a href="http://www.nielsenmassey.com">Nielsen-Massey Vanillas</a></p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/tortuga-rum-cake-company.html"><rss:title>Tortuga Rum Cake Company</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/tortuga-rum-cake-company.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-08-04T01:13:27Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> <span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/tortuga_logo.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217812507455"></span></span> <strong>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Monique Hamaty-Simmonds</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong></p> <p>I am a second generation entrepreneur, opening Tortuga Imports/ dba Tortuga Rum Cake Company upon graduating from Florida International University in Miami, FL. My husband Marcus, CFO of our company, and I have 3 children ( ages 6, 4 and 1) and currently live in Grand Cayman B.W.I., where we also have management roles in my father's company, Tortuga Rum Company, Ltd.</p> <p><strong>About the Tortuga Rum Cake Company Biz:</strong></p> <p>Based in Miami, FL, the Tortuga Rum Cake Company was started in 1997 to bring Tortuga Caribbean Rum Cakes to the US market. The cakes are baked in Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Bahamas and Barbados from a four-generations old secret family recipe. Each cake is hand glazed with special 5 year old Tortuga gold rum and vacuum packed to lock in freshness. We handle world wide sales and distribution, online and mail order for Tortuga Rum Cakes and other Caribbean gourmet products. The company has been named to the INC5000, as one of the fastest growing private businesses in America. Tortuga Rum Cakes are now sold on over 100 cruise ships and in specialty and gourmet shops throughout the Caribbean and North America. We ship to 70 countries.</p> <p><strong>Founded:</strong></p><p>1997</p><p><strong>Contacting Tortuga Rum Cake Company:</strong></p><p>Tortuga Rum Cake Company<br>14202 SW 142nd Avenue<br>Miami, FL 33467<br><span fn_index="0" isdynflag="1" info="Call +13053786668;0;+13053786668;0;" onmouseup="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 0,0,0)" onmousedown="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 1,0,0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 1,0,0);skype_active=SkypeCheckCallButton(this);" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 0,0,0);HideSkypeMenu();" context="(305) 378 - 6668" reallyisdynflag="1" fax="0" rtl="false" class="skype_tb_injection" id="__skype_highlight_id"><span title="Skype actions" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0);" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1);" class="skype_tb_injection_left" id="__skype_highlight_id_left"><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_l.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_l.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 7px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span><span class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_img"><img  style="width: 16px;" src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/famfamfam/us.gif" class="skype_tb_img_flag " name="skype_tb_img_f0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/arrow.gif" class="skype_tb_img_arrow " name="skype_tb_img_a0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span></span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><span title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +13053786668" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1)" class="skype_tb_injection_right" id="__skype_highlight_id_right"><span class="skype_tb_innerText" id="__skype_highlight_id_innerText"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1">(305) 378 - 6668</span><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_r.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_right_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_r.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 19px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span></span></span><br>Website: <a href="http://www.tortugarums.com">Tortuga Rum Cake Company</a></p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/wing-time-buffalo-wing-sauces.html"><rss:title>Wing-Time Buffalo Wing Sauces</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/8/4/wing-time-buffalo-wing-sauces.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-08-04T00:19:47Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/wingtime_logo.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217812079218"></span></span><strong>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Terry Brown</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong></p> <p>After graduating from college with a BS in Business Management, I worked in the Savings &amp; Loan industry for 7 years.<br></p> <p>It was my true passion for Buffalo wings that motivated me to quit my high paying day job as a financial analyst for the life of an entrepreneur - that was back in 1993.</p> <p> What really makes me tick, outside of selling Wing-Time sauces, is skiing. Three years ago I decided to relocate my family along with Wing-Time's corporate headquarters to the beautiful mountain town of Steamboat Springs, CO. During the winter I'm able to catch powder days (businesses here call it having a powder clause) in the morning and ship sauce out in the afternoon as that is when all our trucks come. I'm married with a beautiful 4 year-old daughter, Ellie. I love skiing with her on weekends...she's turning into quite an accomplished skier as she's already been on skis for 3 winters now. Other than skiing, we love to hike, bike, go to concerts and just enjoy the beautiful outdoors in the mountains.</p><strong>About the Wing-Time Buffalo Wing Sauces Biz:<br><br></strong> <p>I started Wing-Time in 1994 to bring our authentic Buffalo style chicken wing sauces to the market. I grew up in upstate New York, the birthplace of Buffalo wings, so I feel I know a little something about wings. Our entire line of sauces is made from the finest all-natural, preservative free ingredients. They are also sugar free (ideal for diabetics) and gluten free (ideal for celiacs). We offer 5 different flavors/varieties in both retail as well as food service sizes. We sell our retail bottles to gourmet/specialty stores, independent grocers, chain grocery stores, department stores, hot sauce shops and also through the military commissary system. Our food service sizes are also used in restaurants, bars, delis, meat markets and high volume exclusive wing joints.<br></p><strong>Founded:<br><br></strong>1994<br><br><strong>Number of Employees:<br><br></strong>3<br><br><strong>Clients:<br><br></strong>Military Commissaries, Publix, Harris Teeter, The Frest Market, Bass Pro, Barbeques Galore, Le Gourmet Chef and thousands of other smaller accounts<br><br><strong>Marketing Strategies:<br><br></strong> <p>Trade shows, gourmet magazine advertisements, demos and other in-store promotions, consumer shows, farmers markets. T-shirts, magnets, stickers, recipe fliers</p> <p> <span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/wingtime_wings.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217810661000"></span></span> <strong>Fun Food Story:</strong></p> <p>Even though I'm from upstate New York, I started Wing-Time in California and we're now based in Colorado. Whenever we do trade/consumer shows, we always get people from Buffalo (where "Buffalo" wings started) who come up to our booth with a chip on their shoulder. You see, Buffalonians have a lot of pride in their wings and feel no one else can make a good wing sauce. I always let them try the sauces first before telling them my background. 99% of them go crazy, explaining it's the best bottled wing sauce they've ever had and how it reminds them of all the wings they consumed while growing up. Most also end of making a purchase after I've been successful in knocking the chip off their shoulder they had when first approaching us.</p> <p><strong>Terry knew Wing-Time Buffalo Wing Sauces was a hit when:</strong></p> <p>The customer testimonials started pouring in from all over the country. Some of my early favorites were:</p><p>(From Kim in Aurora, IL): "I love your hot wing sauce! I could dip goldfish in the sauce and eat them."</p><p>(Via email): "I just love the Garlic sauce...my bald boyfriend doesn't 'cause it makes me smell like Garlic, but ya know what? I don't care...I love that Garlic sauce so much I could sit in it...so there..."</p><p>(From Glenn in Greenville, SC): "Mr. Wingmaster, Oh King of Wing, Oh Master of All That is Divine SauceWise. Please tell me where I can get Wing Time Sauces. I have traveled to Atlanta (2 hours away) and can't find it there. I live in Greenville, SC where I can buy 3 different types of lard and 4 brands of head cheese BUT no Wing Time Sauce. I usually buy it when I travel to Florida but am now out and having the Wing Time Shakes BAD man. My last bottle just fell out of the fridge and broke on the floor. I couldn't salvage any of the sauce due to the broken shards of glass (I was willing to take the chance but my wife said NOOO! - I am considering divorce as we speak) and my tears dripping on the floor and into the sauce. I see no reason for going on....HELP!!!!</p><strong>In the News:</strong><br><br> <p>Specialty Food magazine, Fancy Food magazine, Chile Pepper magazine, Gourmet Retailer magazine, Gourmet News magazine, Food Distribution magazine, San Diego Chargers "Gameday" magazine, Family magazine (military to 500,000)</p><strong>Why is Terry in the Food Business?<br><br></strong> <p>Because after 14 years I am still passionate about our sauces and sell them with enthusiasm. It also now supports our family and pays for annual ski passes!</p> <strong>Words from the Wise:<br><br></strong> <p>Be careful when working with large distributors and don't be too hungry too early in the buisness. Start small with local accounts before going national with the big boys.</p> <strong>Final Thoughts from Terry:<br><br></strong> <p>I started Wing-Time in a 1 bedroom apartment in Davis, CA. The bedroom became my office during the day. The living room was my warehouse and UPS packing area. I had bundles of boxes and bags of styrofoam peanuts stacked to the ceiling. Since UPS wouldn't pick up at my apartment complex, I had to drive packages 10 miles away to the UPS center in Sacramento every day. Later I moved to a 2 bedroom duplex with a 1 car garage. This allowed me to get my office out of my bedroom and set up a small warehouse in the garage. Then I bought a house with a 2-car garage which gave me greater warehouse capacity. Then the big move...to an actual warehouse with offices, employees and a forklift along with rent and new overhead expenses.</p> <p><strong>Contacting Wing-Time Buffalo Wing Sauces:</strong> <br></p><p>Wing-Time Buffalo Wing Sauces<br>P. O. Box 775003<br>Steamboat Springs, CO 80477<br><span fn_index="0" isdynflag="1" info="Call +19708711198;0;+19708711198;0;" onmouseup="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 0,0,0)" onmousedown="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 1,0,0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 1,0,0);skype_active=SkypeCheckCallButton(this);" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 0,0,0);HideSkypeMenu();" context="(970) 871-1198" reallyisdynflag="1" fax="0" rtl="false" class="skype_tb_injection" id="__skype_highlight_id"><span title="Skype actions" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0);" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1);" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_injection_left" id="__skype_highlight_id_left"><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_l.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_l.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 7px;" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span><span class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_img"><img  style="width: 16px;" src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/famfamfam/us.gif" class="skype_tb_img_flag " name="skype_tb_img_f0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/arrow.gif" class="skype_tb_img_arrow " name="skype_tb_img_a0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span></span><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span><span title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +19708711198" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1)" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_injection_right" id="__skype_highlight_id_right"><span class="skype_tb_innerText" id="__skype_highlight_id_innerText"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="full-image-inline skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1">(970) 871-1198</span><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_r.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_right_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_r.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 19px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span></span></span><br>Website: <a href="http://www.wingtime.com">Wing-Time Buffalo Wing Sauces</a> </p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/28/twin-hens.html"><rss:title>Twin Hens</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/28/twin-hens.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-07-28T00:45:24Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> <span class="full-image-float-right"><span><img  src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/twinhens_logo.gif?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1217206038495"></span></span> <strong>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Linda Twining</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur and the Twin Hens Biz:<br></strong></p> <p>Twin Hens is an artisan food manufacturer of chicken and beef pot pies, made with organic vegetables and all natural beef and chicken. <br></p> <p>Both owners, Linda Twining and Kathy Herring are trained chefs. Both worked in corporate America before starting this business.</p> <p><strong>Clients:</strong></p><p>Dean and Deluca, WholeFoods</p> <p><strong>Contacting Twin Hens:</strong></p><p>Twin Hens<br>23 Orchard Road<br>Skillman, NJ 08558<br><span fn_index="0" isdynflag="1" info="Call +19082819911;0;+19082819911;0;" onmouseup="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 0,0,0)" onmousedown="SkypeSetCallButtonPressed(this, 1,0,0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 1,0,0);skype_active=SkypeCheckCallButton(this);" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButton(this, 0,0,0);HideSkypeMenu();" context="(908) 281-9911" reallyisdynflag="1" fax="0" rtl="false" class="skype_tb_injection" id="__skype_highlight_id"><span title="Skype actions" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0);" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1);" class="skype_tb_injection_left" id="__skype_highlight_id_left"><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_l.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_adge"><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_l.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 7px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span></span><span class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_left_img"><img  style="width: 16px;" src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/famfamfam/us.gif" class="skype_tb_img_flag " name="skype_tb_img_f0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/arrow.gif" class="skype_tb_img_arrow " name="skype_tb_img_a0"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span></span><span class="full-image-inline"><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span></span><span title="Call this phone number in United States of America with Skype: +19082819911" onmouseout="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 0)" onmouseover="SkypeSetCallButtonPart(this, 1)" class="skype_tb_injection_right" id="__skype_highlight_id_right"><span class="skype_tb_innerText" id="__skype_highlight_id_innerText"><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span><span><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/space.gif" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; height: 1px; width: 1px;" class="skype_tb_img_space " height="1" width="1"></span>(908) 281-9911</span><span style="background-image: url(chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_normal_r.gif);" class="skype_tb_injection_left_img" id="__skype_highlight_id_right_adge"><img  src="chrome://skype_ff_toolbar_win/content/cb_transparent_r.gif" style="height: 11px; width: 19px;" class="skype_tb_img_adge " height="11"></span></span></span><br>Website: <a href="http://www.TwinHens.com">Twin Hens</a></p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/traverse-bay-farms.html"><rss:title>Traverse Bay Farms</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/traverse-bay-farms.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-07-19T22:39:19Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/traversebay_logo.gif" alt="traversebay_logo.gif" /></span>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Andy LaPointe</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>We started our business with the goal of offering a complete line of fruit products and offering health and life enriching products.&nbsp; I graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in business.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>About the Traverse Bay Farms Biz:</strong></p><p>  </p><p class="MsoPlainText">We only specialize in fruit-based products and offer a complete line of super fruit products for every meal of the day. Our pineapple salsa was voted #1 and #3 red raspberry salsa was voted #3 fruit salsa in America. Our Black bean salsa was voted #1 black bean salsa in America and our corn salsa was voted #2 salsa in America in the general salsa category in the 2007 America's Best National Food Competition. We also offer dried fruit, cherry juice concentrate, tart cherry capsules and super fruit supplements.</p>  <p><strong>Number of Employees:</strong></p><p>5</p><p><strong>Clients:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Main grocery stores, i.e. Meijer Stores, Piggly Wiggly, etc. and Resorts and Spas&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Marketing Strategies:</strong><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></p><p>To offer a complete and complimentary line of great tasting, healthy products for every meal of the day. </p><p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/traversebay_cherries.jpg" alt="traversebay_cherries.jpg" /></span>Fun Food Story:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">We were invited to Hollywood for the 2007 Academy Awards. Great photos and great stories.</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Andy knew Traverse Bay Farms was a hit when:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">When we started our business...</p>    <p>&nbsp;<strong>In the News:</strong></p><p>Training and Conditioning, Self, Los Angeles Time, Red Book, Let's Live, In Touch, Entrepreneur, Splash, Spa Review Magazine, Entrepreneur, Dolce&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Why is Andy in the Food Business?</strong></p><p>To deliver products to enhance our customer's enjoyment of life. </p><p><strong>Words to the Wise:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Create your own brand and don't copy the competition. The food business has a lot of companies that can't market, so they copy the competitors marketing strategies and themes.</p>  <p>&nbsp;<strong>Contacting Traverse Bay Farms:</strong></p><p>Traverse Bay Farms<br />7053 M-88 South<br />P. O. Box 1229<br />Bellaire, MI&nbsp; 49615<br />&nbsp;(231) 533-8788<br />Website:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.traversebayfarms.com" target="_blank">Traverse Bay Farms</a><br />Blog:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.traversebayfarms.com/blog" target="_blank">Traverse Bay Farms</a>&nbsp;</p><strong><br /></strong>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/summer-kitchen-fine-foods-inc.html"><rss:title>Summer Kitchen Fine Foods Inc.</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/summer-kitchen-fine-foods-inc.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-07-19T16:55:25Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/summerkitchen_logo.gif" alt="summerkitchen_logo.gif" /></span>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Mary Fabiano</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>  </p><p class="MsoPlainText">Summer Kitchen Fine Foods Inc. (&ldquo;Summer Kitchen&rdquo;) is an award winning local Canadian gourmet food manufacturer and distributor that specializes in creating unique food products that appeal to consumers who appreciate quality, and taste with a little flair.&nbsp; Chef-owner Mary Fabiano started the Company in its present form in 1996.&nbsp; Training at Le Cordon Bleu London Culinary Arts Institute, she enhanced her experience by working with some of the most innovative chefs in both Italy and Toronto. Mary established Summer Kitchen to respond to market interest in unique food products that are made from pure, natural ingredients, and address the cultural diversity of the global market.&nbsp; Summer Kitchen&rsquo;s products are predominately carried by higher end food shops, but are increasingly finding their way into specialty shops as well.&nbsp; You are invited to view Summer Kitchen&rsquo;s portfolio of products, and additional information about the company by visiting <a href="http://www.summer-kitchen.com/">www.summer-kitchen.com</a>. As a matter of interest, Summer Kitchen&rsquo;s web site is currently being upgraded to reflect the increased demand for its offerings.</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>About the Summer Kitchen Fine Foods Biz:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Mary Fabiano is the chef behind this sexy food company known as Summer Kitchen Fine Foods Inc.&nbsp; Summer Kitchen has come to be known among &ldquo;the dare to be different&rdquo; crowd, and was the brainchild of two visionary sisters in Paris, Ontario up until 1996 when Mary spearheaded the company into a new age. </p>    <p class="MsoPlainText">&nbsp;Her training at the Cordon Bleu and her work with some of the most innovative caterers of Toronto and Italy has instilled in her an infinite appreciation for quality.&nbsp; Combine this with her passion, creativity and endless curiosity and you have an award winning formula for a successful food company such as Summer Kitchen. </p>    <p class="MsoPlainText">&nbsp;Summer Kitchen, under the direction of Mary Fabiano, has received many accolades.&nbsp; In 1996, at the International Summer Fancy Food and Confectionery Show, Summer Kitchen introduced its unusual Amorizia Horseradish Spread.&nbsp; It was selected 1st runner-up in the Savoury Condiment, Cooking Enhancement or Spice category.&nbsp; That same year, Summer Kitchen&rsquo;s Banana Patch Jam was awarded 1st runner-up in the Sweet Condiment and Enhancer category for the &ldquo;People&rsquo;s Pick&rdquo; at the Toronto&rsquo;s Good Food Festival and Market.&nbsp; Also, in that same year, this young food company was honoured with Best Specialty Food Design at the Second Ontario Creative Art Show, which is part of the Toronto Gift Show.&nbsp; In February of 2006, Mary successfully competed and won the &ldquo;Best in Show&rdquo; for a Pear Walnut and Marsala Wine Desert Sauce developed for the California Walnut Growers. She received honours and a grand prize of $10, 000 at the Canadian International Food and Beverage Show.&nbsp; </p>    <p class="MsoPlainText">&nbsp;If the word &ldquo;refined&rdquo; has a taste, it is sure to be any food prepared by Mary Fabiano.&nbsp; Summer Kitchen and Mary Fabiano are devoted to bringing you the biggest flavours with minimal effort.&nbsp; They provide natural tastes that guarantee to please even the stiffest palate. </p>    <p class="MsoPlainText">&nbsp;Mary&rsquo;s &ldquo;you be the judge&rdquo; attitude has granted her credibility in developing tastes that she is proud of.&nbsp; Mary&rsquo;s apparition for her food remains &ldquo;if you don&rsquo;t love our food, what&rsquo;s the point?&rdquo;</p>    <p>&nbsp;<strong>Founded:</strong></p><p>&nbsp;1996</p><p><strong>Number of Employees:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>4</p><p><strong>Clients:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Longo's, Pusateri, Holt Renfrew, Ashleys&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Marketing Strategies:</strong></p><p>Distributor </p><p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/summerkitchen_carponato.jpg" alt="summerkitchen_carponato.jpg" /></span>Fun Food Story:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Selling products to Oscar Peterson and engaging in conversation without knowing who he was, I kept on asking him if he was an artist of some sort but he denied it until the last moment at which point he handed me his card with a big grin on his face.&nbsp; He said he wished he could have had our conversation taped.</p>  <p>&nbsp;<strong>Mary knew Summer Kitchen Fine Foods was a hit when:</strong></p><p class="MsoPlainText">Three months into it we were nominated for a prestigious award at NASFT.</p>  <p>&nbsp;<strong>In the News:</strong></p><p>Product is in Stepford Wives movie, Toronto Sun, Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Ottawa Citizen, Hamilton Spectator, Style Home Magazine, Canadian Living Magazine, Elle Magazine, Breakfast Television </p><p><strong>Why is Mary in the Food Business?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;My passion!</p><p><strong>Words from the Wise:</strong></p><p>  </p><p class="MsoPlainText">Allow food to break down any racial barriers...</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Contacting Summer Kitchen Fine Foods:</strong>&nbsp;</p>  <p>Summer Kitchen Fine Foods Inc.<br />1444 Dupont Street, Unit 4<br />Toronto, ON &nbsp;&nbsp; M6P 4H3<br />Canada<br />(416) 621-8641<br />Website:&nbsp; <a href="http://summer-kitchen.com" target="_blank">Summer Kitchen Fine Foods Inc.</a></p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/stella-cadente-olive-oil.html"><rss:title>Stella Cadente Olive Oil</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/stella-cadente-olive-oil.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-07-19T16:33:55Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/stellacadente_logo.gif" alt="stellacadente_logo.gif" /></span>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Julia Conway</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong> </p><p>The newest member of the Stella Cadente family is Mendocino County chef Julia Kendrick Conway. A devoted fan of Stella Cadente&rsquo;s oils from her tenure as a manager at a local specialty food store, Julia was a natural choice to take the company to the next level. With culinary training from the Napa valley&rsquo;s Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, and at a farm school in Tuscany, Julia brings a cook&rsquo;s perspective and palate to product development and marketing. As a local leader for Slow Food, she believes that Stella Cadente&rsquo;s local wine-country roots are an essential part of product&rsquo;s identity. &ldquo;As technology continues to separate people from each other and from their culinary roots, it is important to remember where our food comes from&hellip;&rdquo; This is why the company&rsquo;s expansion will always be tied to the sense of place established by the farmers themselves.</p> <p> <strong>About the Stella Cadente Olive Oil Biz:</strong></p><p>The name Stella Cadente sounds romantic, even if one doesn&rsquo;t know that it means &ldquo;shooting star&rdquo; in Italian. Away from city lights in the Anderson Valley of Mendocino County the nights are very dark, and the summer months bring a spectacular display of shooting stars. This was founders Sue Ellery and Tom Hunter&rsquo;s inspiration for the names Shooting Star Ranch and Stella Cadente Olive Oil. Some compare this part of Northern California to Tuscany, and the extravagant vistas range from redwood forests to golden hillsides dotted with oak. The morning fog slides into the valley from the Pacific, taking the edge off the summer heat and providing an almost perfect climate for growing grapes and olives.</p> <p> Founded in 1999, when the first three acres of olives were planted at the ranch, Stella Cadente went on to produce their first extra virgin oil in 2000 and won recognition from the International Olive Oil Council in Perugia, Italy, for being &ldquo;&hellip;equal to or better than the best of the Italian oils.&rdquo; From these proud roots, Stella Cadente has slowly grown to become the premier source for oils produced from Mendocino County&rsquo;s unmatched Tuscan-style olives. Today, many of the olives used are sourced from small family farms and vineyards in the hills and valleys of the county, produced sustainably and independently, as are many of the regions well-known wines. Once sold only at local farmers&rsquo; markets, Stella Cadente is now found at select retailers across the country.</p><p> <strong>Number of Employees:</strong></p><p>2-3</p><p><strong>Clients:</strong> </p><p>A wide variety of retail and wholesale, consummate foodies </p><p><strong>Marketing Strategies:</strong> </p> <p>Stick to what we are, a small artisanal company that produces a sustainable, high quality product.</p><p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/stellacadente_oliveoil.jpg" alt="stellacadente_oliveoil.jpg" /></span>Fun Food Story:</strong> </p><p>In 2007, our olive harvest was very late due to a foggy summer. We picked on a cold, windy early December day, and it was late in the afternoon before we loaded up the 4 tones of olives and headed for the mill, an hour's drive over the mountains. When I had studied in Tuscany, we had enjoyed a traditional Zuppa della Frantoia (Olive Press Soup) with the newly pressed oil. Before leaving for the ranch, I had packed up a batch of this hearty, bean-based winter vegetable soup and a loaf of crusti ciabatta, with a small butane burner and a soup pot. By the time we started pressing, it was already dark and cold, and I fired up the soup in a back corner of the mill room. The owner of the press, myself and the two Italian apprentices enjoyed a steaming hot bowl of the soup, served over a slice of the bread and drizzled with a stream of the newly stone-pressed oil, just as it is done in mills all over Italy. It warmed the heart and the soul, and energized us to finish the pressing, the last batch of olives of the day.</p> <p><strong>Julia knew Stella Cadente Olive Oil was a hit when:</strong> </p><p>One of the four bingo card leads from the Chicago Spring Fancy Food Show, where our product was displayed as a Sofi Silver Finalist but we were not actually exhibiting, was a famous Food Network chef.</p><p><strong>In the News:</strong> </p><p>National Geographic Traveler, The Street.com, Times of the Islands, Estylo!, The Nibble.com, Pottery Barn catalog (photo placement, not product sales), photo placement in a feature film (still in editing phase) </p><p><strong>Why is Julia in the Food Business?</strong> </p><p>I love producing and selling a product that makes people happy. I spent 20+ years in the high-tech industry, and wanted to work in a business where people actually enjoyed the business and the products.</p><p><strong>Words from the Wise (what you don't like about the biz):</strong> </p><p>Unlike Europe, American customers do not really recognize the value of quality, artisan products. We are spoiled by the availability of cheap, mass-produced and distributed foods, and do not really support our small farmers and producers as a viable part of our economies and communities. This is also why I am very active in Slow Food.<br /></p><p><strong>A Final Thought from Julia:</strong></p> <p>After giving up a fast-paced, highly paid urban lifestyle for a rural one, I would never go back!</p><p><strong>Contacting Stella Cadente Olive Oil:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;Stella Cadente Olive Oil<br />17451 Jade Court<br />Fort Bragg, CA&nbsp; 95437<br />(800) 305-1288<br />Website:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.stellacadente.com" target="_blank">Stella Cadente Olive Oil</a></p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/solomons-gourmet-cookies.html"><rss:title>Solomon's Gourmet Cookies</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/solomons-gourmet-cookies.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-07-19T16:13:24Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/solomons_logo.gif" alt="solomons_logo.gif" /></span>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Jason Tenenbaum</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>My initial background was in the pharmaceutical industry.&nbsp; I received my Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of California, Irvine and was working&nbsp; for a contract research organization for a time before openiing Solomon's Gourmet Cookies.&nbsp; After my worksite was closed, I decided to open a family business.&nbsp; I work with my mother, and we make and sell cookies developed by her mom, my grandmother.<br /></p><p><strong>About the Solomon's Gourmet Cookies Biz:</strong></p><p>Solomon's Gourmet Cookies specializes in delicious cookies, brownies, and bars.&nbsp; Our recipes were handed down to us by my grandmother, Frieda Solomon.&nbsp; We ship our products in gift boxes all across the country.&nbsp; Each of our tasty cookies, brownies, and bars are all natural and made with fresh ingredients.&nbsp; We don't use any preservatives or additives.<strong><br /></strong></p><p><strong>&nbsp;Founded:</strong></p><p>2003</p><p><strong>Number of Employees:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>10</p><p><strong>Clients:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Law firms, theaters, grocery stores</p><p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/solomons_cookies.gif" alt="solomons_cookies.gif" /></span>Fun Food Story:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Filming the Food Network show, Road Tasted, was a blast.&nbsp; They called us two days before they wanted to film to let us know that we'd been selected and were going to be on the show.&nbsp; Our cafe hadn't opened yet, and I had just gotten married that weekend!&nbsp; It was a good thing I wasn't going on a honeymoon right away.&nbsp; Everything went off super well, and the Deen brothers and all of their staff were as nice as you could possibly imagine.&nbsp; We really enjoyed spending time with them&nbsp; and sharing the experience of owning family businesses.<br /></p><p><strong>In the News:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Food Network, Rachel Ray Show, Today Show, Chicago Tribune, WGN, ABC&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Why is Jason in the Food Biz?</strong></p><p>It's much nice being in a business where the things you're around everyday won't kill you if you're not careful! </p><p><strong>Contacting Solomon's Gourmet Cookies:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Solomon's Gourmet Cookies<br />2222 N Elston Avenue<br />Chicago, IL&nbsp; 60614<br />(888) 384-8575<br />Website:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.solomonscookies.com" target="_blank">Solomon's Gourmet Cookies</a><br />Blog:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.solomonscookies.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Solomon's Gourmet Cookies</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item><rss:item rdf:about="http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/mighty-leaf-tea.html"><rss:title>Mighty Leaf Tea</rss:title><rss:link>http://www.foodpreneur.com/journal/2008/7/19/mighty-leaf-tea.html</rss:link><dc:creator>Editorial</dc:creator><dc:date>2008-07-19T16:01:18Z</dc:date><dc:subject>Food Brands</dc:subject><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/mightyleaf_logo.gif" alt="mightyleaf_logo.gif" /></span>Foodpreneur:</strong></p><p>Gary Shinner</p><p><strong>About the Foodpreneur:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Grew up in Chicago, went to Manchester College, worked in investment banking before co-founding Mighty Leaf Tea with my wife Jill Portman.&nbsp; We sold our tea products in a store before beginning our wholesale distribution business. </p>    <p class="MsoPlainText">I'm into fitness, lifestyle, film, books, and of course my family.</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>About the Mighty Leaf Tea Biz:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Mighty Leaf Tea creates and sells tea products to stores and other companies. Our hallmark is our redefinition of the tea experience&nbsp; as being a sensory excursion at every touch point...a lifestyle experience.&nbsp; Mighty Leaf Tea is sold at upscale restaurants, hotels and available at quality grocery stores.</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Founded:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">&nbsp;March 1996</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Number of Employees:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">60</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Clients:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Whole Foods, Nordstroms, Cost Plus, Ritz Carlton&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Marketing Strategies:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Sampling and events </p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong><span class="full-image-float-right"><img src="http://www.foodpreneur.com/storage/mightleaf_greentea.jpg" alt="mightleaf_greentea.jpg" /></span>Fun Food Story:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">A publication referred to the Mighty Leaf silken tea pouch experience &quot;Like sleeping in the nude.&quot; </p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Gary knew Mighty Leaf Tea was a hit when:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">NY Times article quoted a senior Lipton tea executive saying &quot;although an improvement, Lipton's new entry level premium tea line is still a far cry from the quality of Mighty Leaf Tea&quot;.</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>In the News:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">NY Times, CNBC, CNN, Cooks Illustrated, Inc., NY Magazine, US News, Food and Wine and others...</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Why is Gary in the Food Business?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">I'm a sensory guy that's infused with passion. </p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Words from the Wise (what you don't like about the biz):</strong></p><p class="MsoPlainText">Can't think of anything at the moment...I'll ponder over a cup of Mighty Leaf Tea </p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>A Final Thought from Gary:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p class="MsoPlainText">Cheers!</p><p class="MsoPlainText"><strong>Contacting Mighty Leaf Tea:</strong>&nbsp;</p>    <p class="MsoPlainText">Mighty Leaf Tea<br />136 Mitchell Blvd<br />San Rafael, CA&nbsp; 94903<br />(415) 491-2650<br />Website:&nbsp; <a href="http://www.mightyleaf.com" target="_blank">Mighty Leaf Tea</a><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">&nbsp;</span></p>]]></content:encoded></rss:item></rdf:RDF>