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Team New York Gobbles Up the Competition

Team New York Gobbles Up the Competition to Help Feed the Hungry this Holiday Seasonin First-Ever ShopRite Partners In Caring Turkey Bowl Invitational Turkey Bowl Kicks-Off ShopRite Partners In Caring Annual Turkey Donation of More than 35 Tons of Frozen Turkeys to Area Food Banks

Lodi, NJ (November 10, 2009) – Kicking-off their annual turkey donations, ShopRite challenged representatives from New York and New Jersey’s Food Banks to a little friendly competition to help raise awareness about the issue of hunger.  Team New York defeated Team New Jersey in the first-ever ShopRite Partners In Caring Turkey Bowl Invitational today to bring home an honorary trophy and 100 cases of turkeys for the Food Bank for New York City.  In the spirit of the season, Team New Jersey was also awarded 100 cases of turkeys for the Community Food Bank of New Jersey for participating in this new fall classic. 

With the holidays right around the corner, families across the country anxiously await the time they’ll spend with loved ones sharing a traditional holiday meal.  Unfortunately, for far too many people, Thanksgiving dinner would not be possible without the assistance of local food banks and pantries.  In support of their efforts to help those in need, ShopRite Partners In Caring will donate more than 35 tons of frozen turkeys to food banks throughout New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and Pennsylvania to help feed families in need this holiday season. 

ShopRite associates and members of the Harlem Globetrotters teamed up with the Food Bank for New York City and the Community Food Bank of New Jersey to see which state could “bowl” the best turkey.  Hosted by the ShopRite of Lodi, Team New Jersey included Harlem Globetrotter Blenda Rodriquez, Community Food Bank of NJ Vice President of Resource Development, Phyllis Dunlop and ShopRite of Lodi store manager John Kopf.  Representing Team New York was Harlem Globetrotter Bam Bam Bamiro, Food Bank for NYC Director of Business Partnerships, Tricia Rumola and ShopRite of Forest Avenue (Staten Island) store manager Ron Mowder. 

Charities across the state are expecting a greater need for assistance this year.  With that in mind, ShopRite Partners In Caring is set to donate more than seventy thousand pounds of turkeys.  Since the inception of the turkey donation tradition eight years ago, more than 600,000 pounds of frozen turkeys have been delivered to food banks in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland.

“We understand the difficulties families face during the holiday season and that’s why ShopRite Partners In Caring is dedicated to helping families have a traditional Thanksgiving meal they can enjoy and share with others,” said Christine Magyarits, spokeswoman for ShopRite Partners In Caring.  “This year, we are especially honored to raise awareness of the need with the help of the world famous Harlem Globetrotters and the Food Bank for New York City and Community Food of New Jersey.”

The food banks receiving turkey donations from ShopRite Partners In Caring are: Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside, NJ; Mercer Street Friends in Ewing, NJ; NORWESCAP in Phillipsburg, NJ; Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties in Neptune, NJ;  Community Food Bank (Southern Branch) in Egg Harbor, NJ; Foodshare in Bloomfield, CT; Connecticut Food Bank in East Haven, CT; Food Bank of South Jersey in Pennsauken, NJ; Food Bank of Hudson Valley in Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY; Long Island Cares in Hauppauge, NY; Food Bank for Westchester in Millwood, NY; Food Bank for NYC in Bronx, NY; Philabundance in Philadelphia, PA; 2nd Harvest Food Bank of Lehigh Valley in Allentown, PA; Food Bank of Delaware in Newark, DE; H&J Weinberg NEPA in Wilkes Barre, PA and Food Bank of Northeastern NY in Latham, NY.

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‘ShopRite Chefs On Call’ To Provide Customers With A Stress-Free Thanksgiving

Keasbey, NJ (November 10, 2009) – ShopRite’s Culinary Workshop Chefs will once more provide their advice and expertise to customers who plan to cook holiday meals this Thanksgiving season. The “ShopRite Chefs on Call” service was introduced last year as a culinary resource for ShopRite customers seeking advice, recipes and home-cooking tips from a practiced and knowledgeable source. Last year’s Chefs received an astounding 351 phone calls!

From Sunday, November 22nd through Thanksgiving Day, a team of top ShopRite Culinary Workshop Chefs will serve up answers to customers’ Thanksgiving meal preparation questions. Whether cooking a full Thanksgiving dinner, preparing a side dish or simply helping out in the kitchen, ShopRite’s top Chefs will be “on call” to guide seasoned cooks and beginners alike through their holiday meal plans and preparations.
In addition to answering questions received through ShopRite’s Customer Care Center via 1-800-ShopRite, these Chefs will also share preparation tips and kitchen-tested recipe ideas that are sure to complement the most treasured of traditional holiday meals.

“Chefs on Call provides our customers with such a unique customer service experience,” said corporate executive chef, Faith Alahverdian. “Not only can customers have experienced, professionally-trained Chefs help them create the finest holiday meal possible, but our Chefs are able to connect with customers in a personal way. This personal connection is truly what makes ShopRite everyone’s ‘neighborhood grocery store,’” said Chef Faith.

To talk live with a ShopRite Chef, customers are encouraged to call 1-800-ShopRite (1-800-746-7748) at the following times and ask for the “Chef on call.”

Sunday, November 22
9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Monday, November 23
9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday, November 24
12:00 noon – 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 25
12:00 noon – 6:00 p.m.

Thanksgiving Day, November 26
8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Callers who provide an email address will receive some of the Chefs’ favorite Culinary Workshop holiday recipes. For additional information on holiday turkey preparation including tips on buying, storing, thawing and roasting, please visit www.shoprite.com.

About ShopRite’s Culinary Workshop
Created over 10 years ago, ShopRite’s Culinary Workshop offers hands-on cooking classes taught by area professional Chefs in 45 of our stores. For only $20, guests attend a 2 hour class and fully participate in the preparation of an entire meal. After the meal is finished, they dine with the chef on the sampler meal. ShopRite continually looks for ways to help its customers save money on their food budget. By providing money and time saving professional tips, customers learn to prepare restaurant quality foods in their own home.

About ShopRite
ShopRite supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, a retailer-owned cooperative. Through the more than 200 stores located throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland, ShopRite serves more than five million customers each week. A long-time supporter of key community efforts, ShopRite was named Feeding America’s (formally named America’s Second Harvest) Grocery Distributor of the Year (1999) for its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round initiative dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities served by ShopRite stores. Since its inception, ShopRite Partners In Caring has donated more than $20 million to 1,500 worthy charities and food banks.

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Wakefern/ShopRite Donates Funds to Refurbish Training Facility for New Community Corp. of Newark

Keasbey, NJ — October 28, 2009 — Officials of Essex County’s Division of Training and Employment joined ShopRite, Wakefern and New Community Corp. (NCC) today for the re-opening of the New Community Corp. ShopRite training center in Newark. The new and improved NCC training facility was made possible through support from Wakefern/ShopRite.

The refurbished facility, which now includes the latest computerized touch screen cash registers and 14 computerized work modules, serves as the cornerstone of the Partners in Training program. Partners in Training is a training and educational and employment partnership between Wakefern and New Community Corp., the largest community development organization in the United States. Launched in New Jersey in 2000, the Partners in Training program prepares recipients of public assistance to re-enter the workforce by training them for positions with ShopRite supermarkets. The training center serves as a mock supermarket where participants receive cashiering, customer service and job readiness training that leads to employment with one of twelve participating New Jersey ShopRite stores.
At the ribbon cutting ceremony, Wakefern/ShopRite will also present the New Community Corp. of Newark with a $15,000 donation from funds raised at the recent Sybase Classic presented by ShopRite, an annual LPGA tournament.

“Partners in Training makes a significant difference in the lives of those in need throughout the communities ShopRite serves,” said Joseph Colalillo, CEO and chairman of Wakefern Food Corp., the merchandising and distribution arm for ShopRite supermarkets. “We are proud to be a part of a program that helps hardworking and dedicated people find their niche in the ShopRite family.”
“Our partnership with Wakefern enables New Community Corp. to continue its important work in the community, empowering individuals to work toward a brighter future,” said Monsignor William J. Linder, founder and chief executive officer of New Community Corp. of Newark. “This new training center and generous donation will go a long way toward helping us to maintain the level of support our clients have come to rely upon.”

As of September 2009, there were 800 Partners in Training graduates, of whom 766 were hired to work in ShopRite stores throughout Northern New Jersey, including Clark, Kearny, East Orange and Bloomfield. Last year alone, the placement rate was about 90
percent, with students landing jobs as cashiers, as well as positions in product or customer service departments.

In 2006, Partners in Training received the Food Marketing Institute’s “Maximizing People Potential Award (MAXX).” The MAXX Award is presented annually to a retailer or wholesaler to recognize programs and initiatives that improve employee performance or advance a key business goal.

About Wakefern Food Corp.
From a small, struggling cooperative with eight members – all owners of their own grocery stores – Wakefern Food Corporation has grown into the largest retailer-owned cooperative in the United States and one of the largest employers in New Jersey. The cooperative is comprised of 45 members who individually own and operate supermarkets under the ShopRite banner. Today, Wakefern, the merchandising and distribution arm of the company, and the more than 200 ShopRite stores located throughout New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland employ more than 50,000 people.

About New Community Corp.
As the largest community development corporation in the United States, New Community’s success rests on its comprehensive approach to community development. It is active in housing, health care, education, training, childcare and economic development. It runs for-profit businesses, a community newspaper and arts programs and a credit union. It has provided training to community development professionals from around the country and the world, having hosted representatives from more than 20 countries in recent years.


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Wakefern/ShopRite Named “Corporate Sponsor of the Year” by The Hope Chest Scholarship Foundation

Keasbey, NJ — October 26, 2009 — Wakefern Food Corp./ShopRite has been named the 2009 “Corporate Sponsor of the Year” by the Hope Chest Scholarship Foundation (HCSF). HCSF provides financial assistance to minority New Jersey students attending a college, university or trade school. The Foundation’s recipients are chosen based on demonstrated academic achievement and financial need.

Wakefern/ShopRite has received this recognition for its contributions to the scholarship foundation and support of education initiatives for minorities, as well as its commitment to the community through programs such as ShopRite Partners in Caring, a year-round hunger fighting initiative.

The Hope Chest Scholarship Foundation presented the “Corporate Sponsor of the Year” award to Wakefern/ShopRite at its Sixth Annual Black Tie Gala this past Saturday, October 24th, in Morristown, NJ.

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Wakefern/ShopRite Presents BRAG Scholarship to Centenary College Student

Company sponsors 39th Annual Scholarship and Awards Dinner in New York City

Keasbey, NJ — October 26, 2009 — Wakefern Food Corp./ShopRite once again presented a Black Retailer Action Group (BRAG) scholarship to a deserving student from the New York metropolitan area this year. Nneka Covington, a senior at Centenary College in Hackettstown, NJ, received this award, the recipients of which are chosen both for academic achievement as well as financial need, on Friday, October 23 at the 39th Annual BRAG Scholarship and Awards Dinner in New York City. Wakefern is one of several sponsors at this annual event, which, in addition to awarding scholarships to 15 BRAG Scholars, celebrates the contributions of distinguished executives who have worked to support and empower African Americans to reach their highest professional potential in the retail industry.

Honorees at this year’s award ceremony included Earvin “Magic” Johnson, CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, who received the Power of Philanthropy Award and Shaun Outler, GVP of Multicultural Merchandising and Vendor Development at Macy’s, Inc., recipient of the Power of Excellence Award.

“Wakefern applauds the extraordinary achievements of this esteemed group of professionals and the students they inspire to greatness,” said Joseph Colalillo, CEO and chairman of Wakefern Food Corp., the merchandising and distribution arm for ShopRite supermarkets. “Supporting education for and fostering the talent of this next generation of leaders is a privilege for us as we celebrate our second year working with BRAG.”

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ShopRite Reinvents the Fresh Pork Shopping Experience

Keasbey, NJ; October 26, 2009 – Once again, ShopRite brings restaurant quality ingredients to the home cook's table -- allowing customers to eat better at home with their families and save hard earned money at the same time. ShopRite has long been known as a culinary resource for customers seeking high quality, choice cut meats. Now, ShopRite has added the prestigious Sterling Silver® brand premium pork products to its lineup of quality meats.

Sterling Silver premium pork combines old-fashioned values with modern day innovation, providing customers with a restaurant-style, culinary masterpiece. Hand-selected for fifty percent greater marbling than traditional fresh pork offerings, Sterling Silver fresh pork is unmatched in quality and taste. These perfectly-marbled cuts of meat offer mouth-watering flavor and incomparable tenderness in each and every bite. Committed to tender, juicy and flavorful meat, Sterling Silver guarantees that its products will provide complete customer satisfaction.

“The addition of Sterling Silver pork is yet another reason ShopRite continues to be the supermarket of choice for customers with discerning palates,” said Karen Meleta, spokesperson for ShopRite. “These products offer customers the value and savings they have come to depend upon from their neighborhood ShopRite.”

ShopRite offers a full line of Sterling Silver bone-in and boneless pork loin products, including Sterling Silver Bone-In Center Cut Loin, Sterling Silver Tenderloin, Sterling Silver Boneless Center Cut Loin and Sterling Silver Bone-In Center Cut Racks.

Sterling Silver Pork will take center stage in ShopRite's Holiday/Winter Culinary Workshop program. The workshop’s chefs will guide students on how to select and prepare the juiciest cuts of pork to bring an elegant and festive touch to the holiday table. "Our customers will easily see the marbling of the Sterling Silver pork and they will easily taste the astounding difference this hand selected pork offers,” said Chef Faith Alahverdian, Executive Chef of the ShopRite Culinary Workshop program. “With products like these at ShopRite, our customers can dine at home as if they were dining in the finest restaurants but at a fraction of the price."

Below is a ShopRite Culinary Workshop recipe to enjoy:

Autumn Fruit Stuffed Sterling Silver Pork Loin
By Chef Faith Alahverdian

1 (3-4 lb) Sterling Silver Boneless Pork Loin Roast with a pocket placed in the center
¼ cup Plugra butter
¼ cup ShopRite Imported Grapeseed Oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 shallots minced
2 teaspoons Simply Organic All Purpose Seasoning
½ teaspoon Simply Organic Garlic Salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 piece each fresh thyme, rosemary & bay leaf
2 gala apples & 2 pears, cored and cut into wedges
½ cup each dried apricots & dried cranberries
½ cup fresh pomegranate arils
8 oz. stem on baby carrots, peeled and trimmed
1/2 cup ShopRite Sparkling Apple Pear Cider

Directions:
Preheat oven to 395 degrees.
Melt butter in a large sauté pan. Add onion and shallot and sauté until clear, about 3 minutes. Add dried fruit and sauté one minute. Add sparkling apple cider and simmer mixture until liquid is evaporated. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Place pork roast on a cutting board. Season inside and out with all purpose seasoning and garlic salt. Place fruit mixture in the pocket of the pork loin. Seal both ends of the pork roast with toothpicks.
Place pork roast in a roasting pan that has been sprayed with non stick spray. Place the fruit slices & pomegranate arils around the roast as well as the carrots.
Roast pork for 15 minutes, lower heat to 295 degrees, add ½ cup of cider to the pan and roast another 8-12 minutes until the meat reaches 155 degrees internal temperature. Remove from oven and tent with foil for 8-10 minutes to allow the roast to rest before carving.
Serve warm with fruit on the plate and the pork jus from the roasting pan.

About ShopRite
ShopRite supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, a retailer-owned cooperative. Through the more than 200 stores located throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland, ShopRite serves more than five million customers each week. A long-time supporter of key community efforts, ShopRite was named Feeding America’s (formally named America’s Second Harvest) Grocery Distributor of the Year (1999) for its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round initiative dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities served by ShopRite stores. Since its inception, ShopRite Partners In Caring has donated more than $20 million to 1,500 worthy charities and food banks.

About Sterling Silver Meats
Since 1989, Sterling Silver Premium Meats has been setting the standard for the finest quality meats. Our hand-selected, fresh beef and pork, cooked deli selections and marinated meats have earned an incomparable reputation for exceptional flavor, tenderness and juiciness. We want to give you more insight into the tremendous dedication and effort that goes into every product we offer and why Sterling Silver Premium Meats are the cornerstone of memorable meals the world over. Sterling Silver is a brand of Cargill Meat Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cargill, Incorporated, and a recognized leader in the beef-and-pork packing industry. We offer an extensive line of premium-quality beef and pork product programs to recognized retail and commercial food service markets around the world. Based in Wichita, Kan., Cargill Meat Solutions employs more than 30,000 people. We have affiliated companies in 59 countries.
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ShopRite Takes Center Stage at The Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival’s ‘Grand Tasting"

Gourmet Culinary Ingredients Available at Local ShopRite Stores Featured in Premier Food Festival

Keasbey, NJ; October 1, 2009 – For the second year, ShopRite is the presenting sponsor of the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival on Saturday, October 10th and Sunday, October 11th in New York’s trendy Meatpacking District.  Proceeds from the event will once again benefit hunger relief initiatives through the New York City Food Bank and Share Our Strength.   The Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite is part of the Wine & Food Festival presented by The Food Network, Food &Wine and Travel Leisure magazines.  One of the Festival’s most popular attractions, The Grand Tasting is set to satisfy the most seasoned palates by showcasing ShopRite’s premier line of limited edition specialty products, signature dishes from the city’s most respected restaurants and world-renowned wine and spirit makers in a deliciously designed two-day gastronomic experience. 

“As the presenting sponsor, we are very excited to showcase the ShopRite brand by bringing ShopRite’s award-winning line of top quality products, as well as dishes created by our team of professional chefs, to all food lovers,” stated Joe Gozzi, director of Specialty Foods at Wakefern Food Corporation, the distribution and merchandising arm of ShopRite supermarkets.  “Not only does the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival help place New York City’s food scene center stage, it also lets the public know that ShopRite is more than a neighborhood supermarket, it is a culinary resource for home chefs.” 

Grand Tasting ticket-holders will enjoy high quality culinary creations by Chef Faith Alahverdian ShopRite’s Corporate Executive Chef and head of ShopRite’s Culinary Workshop. Chef Faith will feature the following exclusive recipes at the New York City Wine & Food Festival:

• San Marzano Tomato Bisque with Fresh Basil Coulis and Mini Cheese Panini -- featuring ShopRite’s own San Marzano DOP Tomatoes. • Baby Arugula, Wild Red Watercress and Grilled Certified Angus Beef Summer Roll with a Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette -- featuring ShopRite Certified Angus Beef and ShopRite Imported Extra Virgin Olive Oil • Campania Grown Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart – featuring ShopRite’s own Imported Campania grown canned cherry tomatoes and Black Bear Goat Cheese • Easy Cherry Cranberry Cheesecake Tartlets – featuring ShopRite’s single batch Imported Cherry Preserves from Canada.

“Recently more and more people have re-discovered the joys of cooking for their friends and family. ShopRite is so proud to be able to offer home chefs the perfect ingredients for restaurant quality cooking at home. Products like these are affordable luxuries, little touches that can make the everyday extraordinary,” said Chef Faith.

Chef Faith’s recipes feature a selection of ShopRite Private Label specialty ingredients that can make meals a masterpiece at a fraction of the cost of gourmet shops, including ShopRite San Marzano Tomatoes, ShopRite Extra Virgin or Organic Olive Oil, ShopRite Imported Campania Grown Cherry Tomatoes, ShopRite Certified Angus Beef, ShopRite Imported Preserves and ShopRite’s exclusive Black Bear line of premium meats and cheeses including Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano and Chevre.

ShopRite has traveled the world to bring key ingredients of the highest quality to home chefs at incredible value.  Some highlights from ShopRite’s collection of specialty products:

ShopRite San Marzano Tomatoes ShopRite’s imported San Marzano tomatoes are distributed in numbered cans, available for a limited time.  Grown exclusively in the San Marzano region of Italy and gently nourished in the volcanic soil of Mt. Vesuvius, these tomatoes are a rare and precious ingredient that will heighten the flavor of any recipe.

ShopRite San Marzano Tomatoes have received the prestigious DOP (Denominazione d' Origine Protetta) designation from the European Union. This certification, referred to as 'Denomination of Protected Origin,' guarantees the authenticity and genuine characteristics of certain food and agricultural products across the continent.

ShopRite Imported Preserves Made with luscious, ripe fruit bursting with fresh flavor, ShopRite’s limited edition batches of preserves can be used for cooking or as a delicious spread. Small batches are produced in limited quantities using fruit harvested at its peak ripeness -- from the farm to the jar the very same day, in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Apricot, Blackberry, Raspberry, Blueberry, Cherry.

About ShopRite ShopRite supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, a retailer-owned cooperative. Through the more than 200 stores located throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland, ShopRite serves more than five million customers each week. A long-time supporter of key community efforts, ShopRite was named Feeding America’s (formally named America’s Second Harvest) Grocery Distributor of the Year (1999) for its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round initiative dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities served by ShopRite stores. Since its inception, ShopRite Partners In Caring has donated more than $20 million to 1,500 worthy charities and food banks.

About The Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite The Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite is part of the New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by The Food Network, Food &Wine and Travel Leisure. The event offers a broad array of seminars from Thursday, October 8th - Sunday, October 11th and consists of several hundred culinary events around NYC. ShopRite’s Grand Tasting, is one of the premier highlights of the citywide festival. Attendees at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite will indulge in two three-hour sessions of food sampling featuring ShopRite’s own brand of culinary creations.  For event schedules or ticket purchase, visit www.shoprite.com.  Ticket price for each session is $150 per person (ShopRite Price Plus members will receive a 10% discount). Net proceeds will benefit the New York City Food Bank and Share Our Strength

About Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival After seven years, The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival brings their one-of-a-kind celebration of wine and food to the great city of New York, complete with a who’s who robust roster of celebrity chefs and culinary personalities.  New York City participating talent include: Rachel Ray, Bobby Flay, Tyler Florence, Alton Brown, Masaharu Morimoto, Guy Fieri, Gordon Ramsey and Nigella Lawson to name a few.  For a full breakdown of events and time and a complete listing of participating Chefs, restaurants and winemaker icons, go to www.wineandfoodfestival.com.

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James Wilmott of Phillipsburg Wins the 2009 ShopRite Best Bagger Contest

First place winner heads to Las Vegas for National Grocers Association Final Competition

Keasbey, NJ; October 15, 2009 –ShopRite announced today that James Wilmott has been awarded the coveted title of 2009 ShopRite Best Bagger, Wilmott of the ShopRite of Greenwich in Greenwich Township, NJ, will represent New Jersey at the National Grocers Association Best Bagger Final Competition in Las Vegas on February 9, 2010.  The winner of the NGA competition will receive a $2,000 prize and the esteemed title of 2009 National Best Bagger. 

Now in its 21st year, the annual Best Bagger contest is a highly competitive national competition that pits supermarket cashiers against their peers for a chance to compete in the National Grocers Association finals.

Best Bagger contestants from ShopRite stores across the tri-state area gathered together for some friendly competition on Tuesday, October 6 for the Annual ShopRite Best Bagger Contest.  Taking their posts in ShopRite of Brookdale’s checkout lanes, seventeen contestants furiously, but carefully, bagged a set of identical products to approximate a typical supermarket purchase.  These seventeen finalists were chosen following a preliminary “bag off” held by owners of participating ShopRite stores.  Judges evaluated the contestants according to the National Grocers Association (NGA) criteria which included speed, proper bag building technique, distribution of weight between bags and style-attitude-appearance. 

 “James is a terrific member of our team here at ShopRite,” said Joe Colalillo, owner of the ShopRite of Greenwich.  “We are very proud to have him represent our store – and our state – in this prestigious competition.”

Wilmott has worked at the ShopRite of Greenwich for 1½ years and is a senior at Phillpsburg High School.  James plans to attend Warren County Community College and will major in Writing.  He will continue working at ShopRite while attending college. 

When asked what advice he might give to a fledgling cashier or bagger, James replied, “Be patient, personable and even keeled.”  Sounds like winning advice!

About ShopRite
ShopRite supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, a retailer-owned cooperative. Through the more than 200 stores located throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland, ShopRite serves more than five million customers each week. A long-time supporter of key community efforts, ShopRite was named Feeding America’s (formally named America’s Second Harvest) Grocery Distributor of the Year (1999) for its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round initiative dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities served by ShopRite stores. Since its inception, ShopRite Partners In Caring has donated more than $20 million to 1,500 worthy charities and food banks.

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ShopRite Partners In Caring Sponsors The Largest Water Fight In History

3,000 People Needed To Wash Away Hunger

Keasbey, NJ; September 24, 2009 – The ShopRite of Passaic-Clifton challenges the local community to participate in breaking the Guinness Book of World Records record by taking part in the world’s largest water fight, to raise funds to help feed the hungry.

The water fight will raise funds for ShopRite Partners In Caring, a community-based hunger-fighting charity which has donated more than $20 million to local food banks.  Hunger-fighters of all ages are asked to make a $5.00 minimum donation to participate in the one-of-a-kind chance to become a part of water-fighting history. Approximately 3,000 people are needed to participate in order to break the record and be included in Guinness Book of World Records.   

Presented by The ShopRite of Passaic-Clifton, in conjunction with the Passaic City Council and Mayor Dr. Alex Blanco, the world’s largest water fight will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 26 at Pulaski Park located at 100 4th Street, Passaic, NJ. 

“We at the ShopRite of Passaic-Clifton are tremendously committed to the fight against hunger,” said Rafael Cuellar, owner and operator of the ShopRite of Passaic-Clifton. “I’m proud of my store associates’ passion in making a difference in the lives of those in need by coming up with new and creative ways to raise funds to feed the hungry. We hope that this water fight event is embraced by all community members and will be the first of many successful water fights to come.”  

Water guns will be provided to all participants. All proceeds benefit The ShopRite Partners In Caring Fund, a component fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey. 

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New Jersey’s High Schools Honored With The ShopRite Cup

New Jersey’s High Schools Honored with The ShopRite Cup Awards To Recognize Top Athletic Programs For 2008-2009 School Year

Keasbey, NJ; September 14, 2009 – New Jersey ShopRite stores will honor six top performing high school athletic programs this Fall with the presentation of the ShopRite Cup.  The 2009 ShopRite Cup ceremonies will include presentations of ShopRite Cup trophies and ShopRite Cup banners to the winning schools to be hung in their gymnasiums. The schools’ local ShopRites will also proudly display congratulatory banners announcing their achievements.
 
In its sixth year, the ShopRite Cup is presented jointly by ShopRite stores and the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA).  Six winning schools – four public and two non-public – receive this prestigious award every year since the program’s inception in 2004.

“ShopRite has a long history of commitment to the communities it serves, especially in support of educational and athletic programs,” said Karen Meleta, spokeswoman for ShopRite. “Awarding these winning schools with the ShopRite Cup is our way of recognizing student athletes and their commitment to their sport and their dedication to excellence.”

Recipients of the 2009 ShopRite Cup are listed below along with the school’s trophy presentation date.

• Neptune Township High School (September 17)
• Glassboro High School (September 18)
• Southern Regional High School, in Manahawkin (September 18)
• Bishop Eustace High Prep, in Pennsauken (September 22)
• Haddonfield High School (September 25)
• Immaculate Heart Academy, in Washington Township (October 2)

To win, schools earned ShopRite Cup points by finishing in the top four in their group’s state championship competitions in 32 NJSIAA-sanctioned sports during the 2008-2009 school year. The ShopRite Cup also rewards bonus points for sportsmanship.

“The ShopRite Cup has been a tremendous vehicle to motivate students through athletic performance and healthy competition,” said Steve Timko, executive director of the NJSIAA. “The students who participate in this program learn invaluable lessons on the importance of teamwork, self-discipline and the drive for success.”


For the complete schedule or more information about the ShopRite Cup, including point totals and group standings, please visit www.njsiaa.org and click on “Awards.”

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The ShopRite of Staten Island To Make Donation To The Food Bank For New York City

Check Presentation: Wednesday, May 13 at 3:00 p.m.

Keasbey, NJ (May 12, 2009) – The ShopRite of Staten Island announced today that it will present a check for $1,500 to the Food Bank For New York City in support of their continued commitment to feed the hungry through the ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round, community-based, hunger-fighting initiative.

Last November, the ShopRite of Hylan Boulevard was named one of the top 30 winning stores in the eighth annual ShopRite Partners In Caring Cheerios Box Competition, a program designed to raise awareness and funds to fight hunger in local communities. As a winner, the ShopRite of Staten Island received $1,500 from ShopRite Partners In Caring to be donated to a charitable agency of their choice. The store team selected the Food Bank For New York City.

“I am proud and grateful to have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those that go hungry in our community,” stated Kevin Mannix, owner and operator of the ShopRite of Staten Island. “This donation could not be possible without the hard work and dedication from the store associates and the generosity of our loyal customers.” 

Mr. Mannix will be on hand to deliver the check to Patrick Mooney, director of Philanthropy at the Food Bank For New York City, at a presentation that will take place at the ShopRite of Hylan Boulevard at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13. 

The $1,500 donation is in addition to the $20,000 already donated to the Food Bank for New York City by Mr. Mannix’s two Staten Island stores, the ShopRite on Richmond Avenue and the ShopRite on Hylan Boulevard.

The ShopRite of Hylan Boulevard is located at: 2424 Hylan Boulevard; Staten Island, NY and its hours of operation are Monday- Sunday; open 24 hours.

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Philadelphia-Area Students to Soar Like Eagles in the Take a Player to School Contest

Schools donate to Food Banks to compete for a visit from a Philadelphia Eagles player

Keasbey, NJ; March 9, 2009 – In recognition of the 10th Anniversary of ShopRite Partners In Caring, ShopRite is teaming up with General Mills and the Philadelphia Eagles Radio Network/94WYSP in the fight against hunger with its Take a Player to School Contest. From March 8, 2009 through April 3, 2009, K-8 schools in Philadelphia and its surrounding areas will be collecting food donations for local Food Banks. Schools can earn 150 Box Tops for Education just for participating in the food drive. Entry into the competition also makes them eligible for the Grand Prize – a school and classroom visit from a Philadelphia Eagles player.

“The winter months are always a time of great need in our communities and our food pantries have been struggling to keep their shelves stocked,” said Martha Buccino, XYZ of Philabundance, one of six Food Banks participating in the contest. “This contest is a wonderful way to deliver a message on the importance of generosity to these children and the amount of support it provides to those who rely on our pantries is without measure. We are so grateful to ShopRite for its support in our hunger-fighting mission.”

All participating schools will receive 150 Bonus Box Tops for Education simply by collecting non-perishable, non-expired food items and donating them to their local, participating Food Bank. The school with the largest donation will receive 1,500 Bonus Box Tops for Education and an all-school assembly led by a Philadelphia Eagles player. The classroom with the most donations at the winning school will also receive a pizza party, Eagles gift bags, autographed photos and a physical education class or recess period led by a Philadelphia Eagles player.

“The Take a Player to School Contest provides a unique opportunity to raise hunger awareness among school-age children and to get them involved in this very important issue,” said Christine Magyarits, manager of Community Relations at Wakefern Food Corporation, the distribution and merchandising arm of ShopRite supermarkets. “We are so pleased that the Philadelphia Eagles are joining us in this endeavor, bringing with them tremendous energy and a sense of fun that will really help to inspire these kids to give from the heart.”

Participating Food Banks in the Take a Player to School Contest include: Philabundance – Philadelphia, PA; Food Bank of South Jersey – Pennsauken, NJ; Community Food Bank of NJ Southern Branch – Egg Harbor Township, NJ; Mercer Street Friends – Ewing, NJ; 2nd Harvest Food Bank of Lehigh Valley – Allentown, PA; and H&J Weinberg NEPA Reg. Food Bank – Wilkes Barre, PA.

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10 Years 10 Heroes Limited-Edition Cheerios Box Honors Hunger Fighting Citizens of All Ages

ShopRite Partners In Caring and General Mills Recognize Winners in Hunger Awareness Competition with a Spot on the Cheerios Box

Edison, NJ (March 11, 2009) – Some heroes aren’t measured by their great strength or incredible skills, but instead by their big hearts and acts of kindness.  ShopRite is marking the tenth anniversary of its community-based hunger-fighting charity, ShopRite Partners In Caring, by honoring individuals who use their hearts and hands to help raise awareness and funds to fight hunger in their local communities. 

In marking the anniversary of the program, ShopRite teamed up with General Mills in a “10 Years – 10 Heroes” contest, a search for ten local heroes – five children and five adults -  who actively engage in the fight against hunger.  The “10 Years - 10 Heroes” contest recognized people who devote time, money, and energy to help battle hunger.  Family, friends and community members submitted nomination essays describing individuals who are passionate about assisting in the fight in their local communities. The ten heroes were selected based on their participation in activities to raise funds or collect food, the spirit in which the activities were conducted and the results achieved.  The winners are: Jacquelyn Broadfoot, of Bloomfield, NJ, Joanne Chadziewicz, of Plainville, CT, Daniel A. Galligan, of Old Bridge, NJ, George Karp, of Mamaroneck, NY, Bill Pere, of Mystic, CT, Stanley Serdakowski, of Gladstone, NJ, Payton Sinkbeil, of Pottstown, PA and Gabriela, Stephanie and Stephen Toledo, of Randolph, NJ.

ShopRite Unveils Limited-Edition Cheerios Box …add one

“We are honored to recognize local heroes who take part in activities that truly make a difference in the lives of many individuals in their communities,” said Christine Magyarits, spokesperson for ShopRite Partners In Caring. “We are also very proud of our dedicated ShopRite associates who help to raise awareness and funds year after year for local food banks. This contest is a great way for us to recognize them and the positive impact that they have on the community.”

The ten local heroes, alongside 61 ShopRite associates, will be featured on the front panel of a limited-edition Cheerios box, the eighth in a series, which will be on shelves this spring exclusively at ShopRite stores. The box will be unveiled in a special ceremony at the ShopRite of Passaic on Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 11 a.m.

Harriet Green of Clifton, NJ, Luisa Mejia of Passaic, NJ and Kevin Fragale of Lodi, NJ are among the ShopRite associates honored on 125,000 limited-edition Cheerios boxes for their store’s commitment to fighting hunger in their local community through the ShopRite Partners In Caring program.  Harriet, Luisa and Kevin were selected to appear on the Cheerios box after the ShopRite of Passaic took a top spot out of 30 winning stores in a contest sponsored by ShopRite and General Mills in support of National Hunger Action Month in September.

ShopRite associates raised more than $290,000 during a two-week contest by offering $1 donation cards to customers at checkout, constructing displays to bring awareness to the issue of hunger, and holding in-store events to support the cause.  General Mills donated an additional $20,000 to the ShopRite Partners In Caring Fund, a component fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey.

The winning stores are:

New Jersey: ShopRite of Passaic, ShopRite of Brookdale, ShopRite of Succasunna, ShopRite of Mansfield, ShopRite of Ramsey, ShopRite of Newton, ShopRite of Flemington, ShopRite of Montague,

ShopRite Unveils Limited-Edition Cheerios Box …add two

ShopRite of Brooklawn, ShopRite of Byram, ShopRite of Cherry Hill, ShopRite of Fairlawn, ShopRite of Clark, ShopRite of Evesham, ShopRite of Clinton, ShopRite of Franklin, ShopRite of Netcong, ShopRite of Rio Grande, ShopRite of Mullica Hill.

New York: ShopRite of Wallkill, ShopRite of Hylan Boulevard, ShopRite of Staten Island. 

Pennsylvania: ShopRite of Oxford & Levick,  ShopRite of Snyder Plaza, ShopRite of Mount Pocono, ShopRite of Warminster, ShopRite of Daleville, ShopRite of Aramingo Avenue. 

Connecticut: ShopRite of Bristol, ShopRite of New London.

The 2009 limited-edition Cheerios boxes will be available for sale on March 20th at your local ShopRite.

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ShopRite Brings More of Everything to Maryland Shoppers

Official Grand Opening Set for March 8

Keasbey, NJ; March 2, 2009 – More variety, more freshness, more savings and more value comes to Maryland when ShopRite celebrates its grand opening on Sunday, March 8. This day marks the official transition of the Klein’s Family Markets to the ShopRite banner with simultaneous grand openings of all of their seven stores.

The transition represents the next phase of growth for the Klein’s supermarket business. "Our family has a long and proud tradition of delivering personalized, family-oriented service with exceptional value to our customers and secure, competitive employment opportunities to our associates. We are very confident that our move to the ShopRite banner will allow us to enhance and extend this tradition into the next generation," stated Howard Klein, vice president & general council of Klein’s ShopRites of Maryland.

Owned and operated by the Klein family, the seven Maryland-based ShopRite stores will offer a multitude of expanded services that will afford customers new ways to save through ShopRite’s promotional programs. Some of those programs include: a 14-day supply of 35 commonly used antibiotics FREE to customers, ShopRite’s 90-day generic drug program that allows customers additional savings for more than 375 commonly prescribed generic drugs, a Holiday promotion for a FREE ham or turkey dinner, hundreds of weekly circular specials, the Baby Bucks program that offers $10 off a shopping trip when customers spend $100 on baby items, and added value via the ShopRite Price Plus® Club loyalty discount program.  Our award-winning private label line will also provide added value and taste.

The Klein’s long-standing commitment to the community will also be enhanced through the ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round, community based hunger-fighting initiative. The program supports 23 regional food banks and more than 1,400 charitable agencies with food or meal components in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Pennsylvania and now, Maryland. More than $20 million has been donated to date in the fight against hunger since the program’s inception in 1999.

The seven stores opening for business under the ShopRite banner on Sunday, March 8 are located in Maryland at:

• ShopRite of Aberdeen; 949 Beards Hill Road, Aberdeen • ShopRite of Bel Air; 223 N Main Street, Bel Air • ShopRite of Festival; 5 Bel Air S Pkwy,  Bel Air • ShopRite of Jacksonville; Jarrettsville Pike, Phoenix • ShopRite of Cardiff; 1606 Dooley Rd, Whiteford • ShopRite of Forest Hill; 2101 Rock Spring Rd, Forest Hill • ShopRite of Riverside; 1321 Riverside Pkwy, Belcamp

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ShopRite Kicks-Off 1st Wave of Free Health Screenings In Support Of Live Right With ShopRite Program

THIS MONTH FEATURES FREE BODY MASS INDEX AND BODY FAT SCREENINGS

Keasbey, NJ (January 16, 2009) -- Be a healthier you this New Year as ShopRite helps kick-start healthy resolutions. As part of the Live Right with ShopRite™ Health and Wellness program, ShopRite will offer a series of FREE health screenings throughout the upcoming months.  In support of the program’s January theme, “New Year, New You,” the ShopRites of Rochelle Park, Paramus, and Englewood will host FREE Body Mass Index (BMI) and Body Fat screenings.

The FREE screenings, provided through ShopRite’s Pharmacy department, will also offer customers FREE educational materials on ways to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

The date and locations for the FREE BMI and Body Fat screening are as follows:

• Tuesday, January 20, 2009 - ShopRite of Rochelle Park 220 West Passaic Street, Rochelle Park, NJ

• Thursday, January 22, 2009 - ShopRite of Paramus 224 State Highway Route 4 East, Paramus, NJ

• Friday, January 23, 2009 - ShopRite of Englewood 40 Nathaniel Place, Englewood, NJ

All screenings are from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

For additional information on ShopRite’s Health and Wellness program, visit www.shoprite.com or contact ShopRite’s Customer Care Center at 1-800-SHOPRITE or 1-800-746-7748.

*Look for more health and wellness events in coming months*

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Brown’s Super Stores Named Top Employer in Philadelphia Business Journal’s 2008 Best Places to Work

Keasbey, NJ (January 7, 2009) – Brown’s Super Stores, took First Place in the  Philadelphia Business Journal’s fifth annual Best Places to Work Contest. Brown’s Super Stores, comprised of 11 ShopRite supermarkets located in the Greater Philadelphia area, was named a top employer in the extra large category of the Delaware Valley by company workers.

The contest results were entirely decided by company employees who participated in an online questionnaire administered by Quantum Market Research, an independent surveying firm in Wichita, Kansas.

Employees of nominated companies were asked to complete a 37 question, online survey that uses a scale of one to six from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree.” Survey participants were asked to rank categories including: team effectiveness, trust in senior leaders, feeling valued, manager effectiveness, and compensation and benefits.

“It is a wonderful feeling to know that my staff highly regards the company they work for. Being happy at your workplace is invaluable and I’m thrilled to be able to provide an enjoyable and fulfilling work experience at all of my stores, stated Jeff Brown, Brown’s Super Stores chairman and CEO. “Behind a great company is a great team that works hard to support it. My daily goal is to serve the needs of the people – that includes the customers visiting my ShopRite stores and the associates working here,” said Mr. Brown.   

According to the questionnaire results, the Brown’s Super Stores’ commitment to the neighborhood is one of the elements that helped propel it in the top winning spot. The Brown family has held a strong presence in the community since 1989 when their first ShopRite store was founded. According to Mr. Brown, the store associates are equally committed to serving the community – a hallmark of their corporate culture. 

More than 200 companies were nominated this year in five categories based on company size or geographic location.

All winners were announced at an awards ceremony on Oct. 15 at the Top of the Tower in the Bell Atlantic Building in Center City. 

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Breath a Little Easier this Flu Season with ShopRite’s FREE Antibiotics Program

Free Antibiotics From January 11 Until March 28

Keasbey, NJ (January 9, 2009) – Wallet-free visits to local ShopRite Pharmacies for antibiotics become a reality starting this Sunday with the launch of ShopRite’s FREE Antibiotics program. Keeping true to its mission of delivering outstanding customer service and value, ShopRite is helping its customers breathe easier this flu season by offering a 14-day supply of commonly prescribed generic oral antibiotics -- FREE of charge. Antibiotics included in ShopRite’s program include:  Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Bacitracin, Cephalexin, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Erythromycin, Penicillin VK, and SMZ-TMP.

The FREE Antibiotics program is available to all customers with or without insurance at ShopRite Pharmacies across Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. To take part in the program, customers must have a valid prescription from their doctor. There is no membership or other commitment required.

In addition, ShopRite Pharmacies have expanded their already existing 90-day, generic drug program by adding 60 new items. The $9.99, (90-Day) generic drug program allows customers additional savings for more than 375 commonly prescribed generic drugs used to treat a wide range of medical conditions including: Allergy and Asthma, Anti Viral, Arthritis Pain, Cholesterol, Diabetes, among others. 

“At ShopRite, our goal is to provide our customers with the best service and every day low prices. When you combine our new FREE Antibiotics program, along with our expanded 90-day/$9.99 generic drug program, we provide our customers with a comprehensive solution for meeting all of their prescription needs,” stated Karen Meleta, spokeswoman for ShopRite.   

For more information about the Free Antibiotic program, and the 90-Day Generic Drug program, visit our Pharmacy section.

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Celebrate the Opening of the Newest (and Littlest) ShopRite Supermarket at Please Touch Museum

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Saturday, December 13 at 10:00 a.m.

Philadelphia, PA (December 9, 2008) – The owners of  ShopRite supermarkets in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware announced today the grand opening of their newest “store,” the ShopRite Supermarket exhibit inside the new Please Touch Museum at Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia.  The hands-on, interactive supermarket exhibit enables children to be shoppers, cashiers and stockers.

“Being a part of the restoration of Memorial Hall, which is such a grand structure and having the supermarket exhibit named for us, further cements our commitment to the community of Philadelphia. We are thrilled to bring the ShopRite supermarket experience into this unique museum setting that is sure to delight children and their parents,” said Karen Meleta, spokeswoman for ShopRite.

“Years ago, when we first announced our plans to move the museum to Memorial Hall, the most frequently asked question was, ‘Are you going to bring the supermarket?’” recalled Nancy Kolb, President & CEO of Please Touch Museum. “It has always been our most popular exhibit, and thanks to ShopRite, we have been able to build an even bigger and better supermarket for families to enjoy. And we have added a kitchen where kids can extend the shopping experience to putting away the groceries they ‘purchase’ at the ShopRite.”

The exhibit puts children in charge of the real-world experience of shopping in a grocery store.  Rather than riding in a cart pushed by mom or dad, young kids push their own small shopping carts through the aisles or operate cash registers in check-out lanes.  Little shoppers can pile their carts high with a wide assortment of play foods including fruits, vegetables, seafood, loaves of bread and packaged items ranging from Philly favorites like Tastykakes to ShopRite branded peanut butter, cereal, juices and canned goods. Huge wheels of cheese, pastries, and frozen foods complete the play shopping experience.

The ShopRite Supermarket exhibit is an integral part of the museum’s City Capers exhibit zone, one of six different zones in the museum.  City Capers is a Please Touch city within the museum, offering a realistic urban environment of shops including the supermarket, a restaurant and a shoe store, along with a medical center, a construction area and the Front Step toddler environment. Together these activities create a ‘neighborhood’ of hands-on learning experiences.

About ShopRite
ShopRite supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, a retailer-owned cooperative with stores throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware. ShopRite serves more than 4 million customers each week. A long time supporter of community efforts, ShopRite has been named the New Jersey Corporate Philanthropist of the Year by the Community Foundation of New Jersey. America’s Second Harvest Food Bank Network also has recognized ShopRite as the Grocery Distributor of the year for its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round initiative dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities served by ShopRite. Since its inception, ShopRite Partners In Caring has donated $20 million to more than 1,400 charities.

About Please Touch Museum®
Please Touch Museum® at Memorial Hall, Fairmount Park is dedicated to enriching the lives of children by providing learning opportunities through play. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and children age one and over. Museum members and children under one are free. On-site parking is available. For more information, call 215-581-3181, or visit
www.pleasetouchmuseum.org.
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Local Heroes Help ShopRite Warm Stomachs And Hearts With Turkey Donations

NJ Veterans Team up With ShopRite for Annual Thanksgiving Donation

Edison, NJ (November 2008) – The holidays are approaching and while some people are planning grocery lists and holiday menus, others will be thinking about where their next meal will come from.  ShopRite hopes to help alleviate that worry for families in need this Thanksgiving.  ShopRite Partners In Caring will continue to fight hunger within the community by donating 30 tons of turkeys to local food banks throughout New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and Pennsylvania.  ShopRite trucks will make the first turkey donation of the season to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside on Veteran’s Day, Tuesday, November 11th at 10 a.m. 

This Veteran’s Day, local heroes from New Jersey’s Fallen Soldiers have volunteered to assist in the important delivery of donated turkeys. These men are no strangers to the frontlines and on the day when the country is honoring them, they are continuing to serve their fellow Americans by aiding in the fight against hunger.  

“Hunger in our communities is prevalent,” said Christine Magyarits, spokeswoman for ShopRite Partners In Caring. “ShopRite is proud to help ease the stress on families by providing them with turkeys for a traditional Thanksgiving meal that they can share and enjoy together.  Since 2001, ShopRite has donated nearly one-half million pounds of turkeys during the holidays. This year, we are especially honored that some of America’s heroes have joined us to help in the fight against hunger. ”

According to Feeding America, (formerly America’s Second Harvest), the nation’s largest charitable hunger-relief organization, more than 36 million people, including 13 million children, live in households that experience hunger or the risk of hunger.  These households are unable to consistently access nutritious and adequate amounts of food necessary for a healthy diet. 

“The current economy and the added stress of the holidays make it very difficult for families to put enough food on the table,” said Kathleen DiChiara, Executive Director of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey.  “Thankfully, generous donations from ShopRite Partners In Caring assist us with the growing need each year.” 

The food banks receiving turkey donations from ShopRite Partners In Caring are: Community FoodBank of New Jersey in Hillside, NJ; Mercer Street Friends in Ewing, NJ; NORWESCAP in Phillipsburg, NJ; Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties in Neptune, NJ;  Community FoodBank (Southern Branch) in Egg Harbor, NJ; Food Share in Bloomfield, CT; Connecticut Food Bank in East Haven, CT; Food Bank of South Jersey in Pennsauken, NJ; Food Bank of Hudson Valley in Cornwell-on-Hudson, NY; Long Island Cares in Hauppauge, NY; Food Bank for Westchester in Millwood, NY; Food Bank for NYC in Bronx, NY; Philabundance in Philadelphia, PA; 2nd Harvest of Lehigh Valley in Allentown, PA; Food Bank of Delaware in Newark, DE; H&J Weinberg NEPA in Wilkes Barre, PA and Food Bank of Eastern NY in Latham, NY.

For more information on ShopRite Partners In Caring, visit: www.shopritepartnersincaring.org

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ShopRite Announces Winner Of The 20th Annual Best Bagger Contest

Kelly McNally To Represent ShopRite At The 2009 National Grocers Association’s National Best Bagger Contest

Keasbey, NJ (November 25, 2008) – Kelly McNally from the ShopRite of Lacey is the winner of ShopRite’s 20th Annual Best Bagger Contest and is set to compete at the National Grocers Association’s Best Bagger National Finals in Las Vegas.

Preliminary “bag off” in-store competitions took place at ShopRite supermarkets across New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The winners moved on to compete in the ShopRite Annual Best Bagger Contest for the top honor of representing ShopRite at the national contest held at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel on Thursday, February 5, 2009.

To win, Ms. McNally competed against 19 ShopRite finalists. Finalists’ bagging experience ranged from one month to over 30 years. McNally was judged on the categories of speed, proper bag building technique, distribution of weight between bags and style, attitude and appearance. The contest took place in the actual checkout lanes at the ShopRite of Somerset on October 21, 2008 and was judged by a panel of ShopRite associates.

“I joined ShopRite eight years ago and I’m very excited to have the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas for a chance to place the company I work for in the national spotlight,” expressed Ms. McNally. “None of this would have been possible without help from Rich Borkowski,” Loss Prevention detective at Perlmart, Inc., operator of the ShopRite of Lacey. Perlmart Inc. is a member of Wakefern Food Corporation, the marketing and distribution arm for ShopRite. “Rich tirelessly trained me for an entire week prior to the contest,” said McNally.

The second and third place winners are Sherry Zimbaldi from the ShopRite of Peekskill and Kris Walker from the ShopRite of Wayne, respectively.

As the winner, Ms. McNally, was awarded a First Place trophy, a 19” Digital LCD Color TV and an all expense paid trip to Las Vegas, Nevada where she’ll compete to win the National Grocers Association’s Best Bagger Contest.

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Talk Turkey with ShopRite’s Culinary Workshop Chefs

Introducing “ShopRite Chefs on Call” – The Direct Connection to A Stress-Free Thanksgiving Feast

Keasbey, NJ (November 21, 2008) – Beginning Sunday, November 23, a team of top ShopRite Culinary Workshop Chef Instructors will serve up answers to customers’ Thanksgiving meal preparation questions through the first ever “ShopRite Chefs On Call” service. Whether cooking a full Thanksgiving dinner, preparing a side dish, or simply helping in the kitchen, ShopRite’s top Chefs will be on call waiting to guide seasoned cooks and beginners alike through their holiday meal preparation.

The team of Chefs will be at ShopRite’s customer care center every day from November 23 until Thanksgiving Day to answer in-coming calls to 1-800-ShopRite. In addition to answering questions, the Chefs will also offer savvy preparation tips and share kitchen-tested recipe ideas that are sure to satisfy even the most demanding dinner guest.

“Even the most experienced Thanksgiving host turns to guidance when cooking a holiday feast,” stated Cheryl Macik, director of Consumer Affairs at Wakefern Food Corp., the distribution and merchandising arm of ShopRite supermarkets. “We are always thinking of ways to offer added convenience for our customers and we hope that “ShopRite Chefs On Call” delivers the time-saving and useful tips that most household cooks need during this busy time of year,” said Macik.

To talk live with a ShopRite Chef, customers are encouraged to call 1-800-ShopRite (1-800-746-7748) at the following times and ask for the “Chef on call.”

• Sunday, November 23 - 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. • Monday, November 24 - 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. • Tuesday, November 25 - 12:00 noon – 6:00 p.m. • Wednesday, November 26 - 12:00 noon – 6:00 p.m. • Thanksgiving Day, November 27 - 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.   “I’m excited to have the team of ShopRite Culinary Workshop professional Chef Instructors who teach hands on cooking classes in select ShopRite Stores each week available to all our customers via phone this holiday,” expressed ShopRite’s Culinary Workshop corporate executive chef, Faith Alahverdian. “This direct one-on-one connection between our talented Chef Instructors and ShopRite customers offers a unique way towards achieving a successful and memorable holiday dinning experience,” said Chef Faith.

Callers who provide an email address will receive a collection of the Chefs’ favorite holiday recipes. For additional information on holiday turkey preparation including tips on buying, storing, thawing, and roasting, visit the Website at www.shoprite.com.

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ShopRite Takes Center Stage As Presenting Sponsor Of The Grand Tasting At The Inaugural Food Network

Net Proceeds to Benefit The New York City Food Bank And Share Our Strength

Keasbey, NJ; September 29, 2008 – ShopRite presents The Grand Tasting at the much anticipated inaugural Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival on Saturday, October 11 and Sunday, October 12.

Food and wine aficionados attending the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite will experience a stimulating taste bud adventure of scrumptious ShopRite branded culinary treats during two three-hour sessions each day. The Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite is part of the Wine & Food Festival presented by The Food Network, Food &Wine and Travel Leisure magazines. The event offers a bonanza of seminars and exquisite food samplings beginning on Thursday, October 9 through Sunday, October 12 at New York City’s trendy Meatpacking District located at Pier 54 in Hudson River Park.

“This event spotlights the best of the New York wine and food scene but it also benefits hunger relief programs that ShopRite has historically supported with great pride,” expressed Joe Gozzi, director of Specialty Foods at Wakefern Food Corporation, the distribution and merchandizing arm of ShopRite supermarkets. “We at ShopRite are thrilled to have the opportunity to share our line of top quality ShopRite Private Label products with food lovers who have discriminatory taste,” he said.

Attendees at the Grand Tasting will enjoy high quality culinary creations by ShopRite’s Culinary Workshop and executive chef, Faith Alahverdian, in a unique setting within the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite tent. Chef Faith will feature her exclusive recipe dish: Casarecce Artisan-Cut Pasta with Lemon Chicken, Parmesan-Roasted Artichoke Hearts and Wilted Escarole, which includes ingredients such as Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, ShopRite Light Olive Oil and ShopRite imported casarecce artisan-cut pasta from Italy. Other tasty delights will feature ShopRite private label Extra Virgin Olive Oil and the popular ShopRite Panettone, to name a few.

The schedule for the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite is as follows:

Saturday, October 11 and Sunday, October 12 Session 1 – 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Session 2 – 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Ticket price for each session is $150 per person. Net proceeds will benefit the New York City Food Bank and Share Our Strength.

For more information, or to purchase tickets to the event, click here

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ShopRite of Wallkill is the Winning Store of The ShopRite Partners In Caring/Pringles Contest

FORMER NY GIANTS MICHAEL STRAHAN TO VISIT THE ShopRite OF WALLKILL TO TACKLE HUNGER IN OUR COMMUNITIES

ShopRite of Wallkill is the Winning Store of The ShopRite Partners In Caring/Pringles Contest

August 12, 2008, Keasbey, NJ – ShopRite of Wallkill associates and customers will be in the company of former New York Giants defensive end, Michael Strahan on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at the ShopRite store located at 20 Lloyds Lane, Middletown, NY.

Strahan’s special appearance comes in appreciation for the hard work and dedication displayed by the ShopRite of Wallkill associates to earn the top position in the ShopRite Partners In Caring/Pringles Contest sponsored by Proctor & Gamble. 

The ShopRite of Wallkill is the winning store out of more than 200 participating ShopRite stores in an associate contest designed to help feed the hungry in our area. To recognize the store’s accomplishment, Strahan will interact with customers and bag groceries from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

“We are so excited to be able to provide the platform needed to spread the word about the hunger issues facing everyday Americans living in our communities,” said Karen Meleta ShopRite Partners In Caring spokeswoman. “Having Michael Strahan on our team in the fight against hunger is a great honor and it is our hope that the many contests and events we hold throughout the year will touch the hearts of those in a position to help others in need.”

ShopRite and P&G teamed up in May to launch the contest. During the contest period, which kicked-off May 25 and ran through June 14, ShopRite stores sold 250,000 Pringles cans and raised a total of $121,000 to benefit the ShopRite Partners In Caring Fund.*

The top 25 ShopRite stores won the opportunity to feature two associates from each store on a full page “Tackling Hunger” ad in the Game Day programs of either the New York Giants or the Philadelphia Eagles.  Each store will be presented with a framed keepsake of the Game Day ad and each winning associate will receive a copy of the New York Giants or Philadelphia Eagles Game Day program.

“The food bank is so pleased that ShopRite, the Pringles team and a New York 2008 Super Bowl Champion have partnered to support us,” express Jan Whitman, director of the Food Bank of Hudson Valley. “It is always exciting to see people coming together to work towards a common goal and we at the food bank are very grateful to have such a strong support in the fight against hunger,” said Whitman.

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ShopRite of Marlton Earns Energy Star Rating

First ShopRite Supermarket To Earn The Prestigious Rating

April 10, 2008, Keasbey, NJ – Supermarkets of Cherry Hill, Inc. has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) prestigious Energy Star Rating for their ShopRite of Marlton, NJ. The Energy Star is the national symbol for protecting the environment through superior energy performance. The ShopRite of Marlton joins more than 3,000 Energy Star buildings nationwide that are committed to reducing their impact on the environment by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

Some of the energy-saving technology used by the ShopRite of Marlton includes the use of a high efficient refrigeration system, energy-saving HVAC systems and refrigerated store cases with energy-saving lamps and lighting systems. The store’s lighting consists mostly of Pulse Start HID and T8 fluorescent systems. In addition, Energy Star qualified equipment is used in the store to further reduce energy consumption.

“We at the ShopRite of Marlton are so honored to accept EPA’s Energy Star in recognition of our energy efficiency efforts,” said Shawn Ravitz, vice president of Administration for Supermarkets of Cherry Hill, Inc. “This achievement helps us get on the right path to what we hope in the future will lead us to additional opportunities to reduce our impact on the environment,” stated Ravitz.

By earning the Energy Star, the store is using about 35 percent less energy than average buildings, while still providing quality service and comfort to customers.   Organizations earn the Energy Star by using EPA’s national energy performance rating system to generate energy-efficiency ratings for their buildings, on a scale of 1 to 100 relative to similar buildings across the country.

The ShopRite of Marlton is located at: 307 West Route 70; Marlton, NJ Store hours are: Monday-Friday; 7 am–12 am   Saturday 7am –12 am; Sunday 7 am–11 pm  

 

About Energy Star

Energy Star was introduced by EPA in 1992 as a voluntary, market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency. Today, the Energy Star label can be found on more than 50 different kinds of products, new homes and commercial and industrial buildings. Products and buildings that have earned the Energy Star designation prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy-efficiency specifications set by the government. Last year alone, Americans, with the help of Energy Star, saved about $14 billion on their energy bills while reducing the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of 25 million vehicles. For more information about the Energy Star for retail buildings log on to: http://www.energystar.gov/labeledbuildings

 

ShopRite Wins “Best Of” Recognition in Philadelphia-area Kosher Survey

Cherry Hill and Philadelphia stores- Two-time winners ELIZABETH, New Jersey – February 12, 2008 – Kosher consumers in the Philadelphia area have once again selected ShopRite supermarkets in Cherry Hill and Philadelphia as the best Kosher stores in the 2007 Philadelphia Area Kosher Community Survey conducted by Kosher Community Surveys LLC. For the second year in a row, the ShopRite of Garden State Pavilion and the ShopRite of Roosevelt Boulevard, earned the recognition based on the percentage of customers rating them “very good” or “excellent” on price, food and service quality, selection and store environment. The ShopRite of Cherry Hill won all five categories. Survey participants highlighted the store’s “great” selection and good prices with special emphasis on the impressive selection of goods for Passover. Consumers also noted that they travel from Pennsylvania to shop at the ShopRite of Cherry Hill’s 3,300-square-foot “Kosher Experience” store-within-a-store. “We are delighted that we are able to serve our kosher community with the variety and value that they expect,” said Shawn Ravitz, vice president of administration of the ShopRite of Garden State Pavilion. “Our associates work very hard at providing the highest level of service and it is nice to be recognized.” The ShopRite of Roosevelt Boulevard was the runner up store of choice by the Kosher consumers. Consumers were particularly impressed with the store’s wide selection of Kosher products and price. “It’s always great to receive customer feedback,” said Richard McMenamin, owner of the ShopRite of Roosevelt Boulevard. “The information that comes out of the survey is exactly the kind of help we need to better serve our customers.” Kosher consumers can visit the winning stores located at the following addresses:

ShopRite of Garden State Pavilion 2240-18 Route 70 West Cherry Hill, NJ 856-910-2300

ShopRite of Roosevelt Boulevard 11000 Roosevelt Boulevard Philadelphia, PA 215-673-1200

About Kosher Community Surveys LLC Kosher Community Surveys LLC is a unique surveying organization dedicated to recognizing quality kosher establishments and providing information that the kosher stores, restaurants and bakeries can use to improve. For each geographic area surveyed, the results of the survey are collected and shared back with the community through a detailed final report available on www.kosher-community-surveys.com. The reports are a resource for determining which establishments to patronize and they also provide guidance to establishment owners on what improvements will help their business. _______________________________________________   Press Room Archives

Check Out Hunger Registers With ShopRite Customers

More Than $500,000 Raised at ShopRite Stores

KEASBEY, N.J. (January, 17, 2008) – ShopRite associates and their customers helped raise more than $540,000 for Check-Out Hunger, an annual fund raiser that benefits food banks in ShopRite’s trading area. From October through December, ShopRite shoppers helped fight hunger by adding a $1, $3, or $5 donation to their bill at the checkout aisle.

Although the holidays may represent joy and celebration for most people, they also accentuate the hardships faced by others. Many people struggle to make ends meet; often having to decide between purchasing food and medication or paying their rent and heating bills. In fact, according to statistics provided by America’s Second Harvest, in 2006, 35.5 million Americans lived in food insecure households.

"The Check Out Hunger program provides an easy way for our generous customers to help fight hunger right in their communities,” said Karen Meleta, spokeswoman for ShopRite. Year after year, ShopRite associates’ dedication to the program ensures that it continues to be a major source of funding for local food banks, who receive 100 percent of all funds that are raised.  The program supports ShopRite’s on-going commitment to the fight against hunger and poverty.

About ShopRite
ShopRite supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, a retailer-owned cooperative.  Through the 200 stores, located throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware, ShopRite serves more than four million customers each week. A long time supporter of key community efforts, ShopRite was named America’s Second Harvest Grocery Distributor of the Year (1999) for its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round initiative dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities served by ShopRite stores. Since its inception, ShopRite Partners In Caring has donated more than $15 million to more than 1,400 worthy charities.

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Quality And Value Comes To Somerset, NJ With The Grand Opening Of New ShopRite Store

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Wednesday, November 7

Keaseby, NJ (November 6, 2007) – ShopRite announced today the grand opening of its newest store in Somerset, NJ, located at 435 Elizabeth Avenue. Starting this week, the local community of Somerset can bring ShopRite’s quality and value to their dinning room tables.

Marking the occasion will be a ribbon cutting ceremony taking place at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 7, 2007. Scheduled to attend and help welcome ShopRite to the community are: Mayor, Brian Levine; Senator, Bob Smith; Assemblyman, Joseph V. Egan; and Assemblyman, Upendra J. Chivukula.   

“The opening of this store has been long awaited by the community and I’m excited that starting this week, we are able to bring our unique services and product offerings to the residents of Somerset,” said William Sumas, Executive Vice President Village Supermarkets, Inc.- owner and operator of the ShopRite of Somerset. Village Supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, the marketing and distribution arm for ShopRite.

With the new store opening comes job opportunities for the local community and a retailer known for its charitable giving.

“All of us at Shoprite are looking forward to servicing the residences of Somerset,” stated Sumas.

Shoppers at the ShopRite of Somerset can enjoy unique services such as:

  • A bistro coffee bar with in-store seating
  • A limited selection of premium cigars
The store will also have other services that a ShopRite customer has come to expect including: A fresh bakery department; Full-service floral department;  Pharmacy;  Broad selection of ethnic foods, and natural and organic products.

In the near future, the store will launch ShopRite’s online personal shopping service, ShopRite From Home.

The grand opening celebration will include entertainment for children, food sampling and giveaways.

The store employees approximately 200 people and its hours of operation are: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. (Monday – Friday); and 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Saturday & Sunday). 

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ShopRite Announces Its Newest Arrival . . . ShopRite.Mybaby.com

A New Social Networking Site for Parents Debuts on ShopRite.com

Keaseby, NJ (November 6, 2007) – ShopRite and MyWebGrocer have joined forces to serve up ShopRite.MyBaby.com -- the latest social networking site for proud parents in search of an open communication platform where ideas, information, stories, and advice can be exchanged.

ShopRite.MyBaby.com is a way for parents to connect with other parents, share advice and support one another while navigating through the parenting years, stated Joe Colalillo, chairman and CEO for Wakefern Food Corporation, the marketing and distribution arm for ShopRite.

ShopRite.MyBaby.com will offer visitors a full range of networking possibilities including blogging, photo and video sharing, journal keeping, event listings, personalized home pages and profiles. Members can connect with other parents from around their own community and from around the country.

“We’re really excited about ShopRite.MyBaby.com because, as anyone who’s been a parent knows, information and advice are critical, especially when you have an infant,” said Rebecca Roose, Marketing and Account Manager for MyWebLink a division of MyWebGrocer.com. “ShopRite.MyBaby.com gives parents the power and support they’re looking for.”

ShopRite.MyBaby.com users will also have the opportunity to have full control of how much information they’d like to share as well as whom they’d like to share it with. Each module or section of the site has a privacy option – giving the user a choice of viewing privileges for other users, family, and friends alike.

Aside from having a place to share funny experiences that come along with raising a family and pass along knowledge, ShopRite.MyBaby.com is also a destination to find: Unique ideas on how to get kids to eat their fruits and vegetables, and conversations on parenting, pregnancy and family living and links to ShopRite’s weekly specials and its online shopping service, ShopRite from Home.

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ShopRite Partners In Caring Deposits 30 Tons Of Turkey Into Food Banks

Annual Thanksgiving Donation Keeps Holiday Tradition Alive Across Five States

Edison, NJ (October 2007) – ShopRite is kicking off the holiday season with a special gift to those in need.  Through its year-round hunger-fighting initiative, ShopRite Partners In Caring, a donation of 60,000 pounds of turkey will be made to food banks and other hunger-fighting charities throughout New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and Pennsylvania. ShopRite trucks will make the first delivery of turkeys to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside on Thursday, Nov. 8 to ensure that all turkey calls are answered in time for Thanksgiving.

“In our year-round fight against hunger we recognize the ‘season of giving’ as a critical period for us to raise awareness and funds for those in need,” said Karen Meleta, spokeswoman for ShopRite Partners In Caring. “During the holidays, the difficulties that families face are more apparent.  ShopRite Partners In Caring is dedicated to giving families a traditional Thanksgiving meal to enjoy and are truly thankful they are able to particpate in this wonderful tradition of giving.”

According to America’s Second Harvest, 36.3 million people, including 13 million children, live in households that experience hunger or the risk of hunger. What is most astonishing is that an average of 23 percent of requests for emergency food assistance is estimated to go unmet.

“It is no surprise that the demand for food support grows every year, especially as the holidays approach,” said Kathleen DiChiara, Executive Director of the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.  “Fortunately, ShopRite Partners In Caring’s generous donation helps us as we try to keep up with these rising requests.  It is rewarding to work with such a committed organization and to witness the impact their hard work has on our communities.”

Food banks receiving turkey donations from ShopRite Partners In Caring are: The Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside, NJ; The Mercer Street Friends in Ewing, NJ; NORWESCAP Food Bank in Phillipsburg, NJ; Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties in Neptune, NJ; The Community Food Bank (Southern Branch) in Egg Harbor, NJ; Food Share in Bloomfield, CT; Connecticut Food Bank in East Haven, CT; Food Bank of South Jersey in Pennsauken, NJ; Food Bank of Hudson Valley in Cornwell-on-Hudson, NY; Long Island Cares in Hauppauge, NY; Food Bank for Westchester in Millwood, NY; Food Bank for NYC in Bronx, NY; Philabundance in Philadelphia, PA; 2nd Harvest of Lehigh Valley in Allentown, PA; Food Bank of Delaware in Newark, DE; H&J Weinberg NEPA in Wilkes Barre, PA and Food Bank of Eastern NY in Latham, NY.

For more information on ShopRite Partners In Caring, visit: www.shopritepartnersincaring.org

U.S. Conference of Mayors Status Report on Hunger and Homelessness in American Cities

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Limited-Edition Cheerios Box Turns Upstanding Citizens Into Cereal-Aisle Celebrities

ShopRite Partners In Caring and General Mills Recognize Winners in Hunger Awareness Competition with a Spot on the Cheerios Box

ELimited-Edition Cheerios Box Turns Upstanding Citizens Into Cereal-Aisle Celebrities
ShopRite Partners In Caring and General Mills Recognize Winners in Hunger Awareness Competition with a Spot on the Cheerios Box

Edison, NJ (October 16, 2007) – Celebrity is a term usually reserved for those stealing scenes on the silver screen or making plays on the field. With the help of ShopRite Partners In Caring and General Mills, local hunger-fighting heroes are turning into celebrities of their own.

60 ShopRite Associates are being honored on 125,000 limited-edition Cheerios boxes for their store’s commitment to fighting hunger in local communities through the ShopRite Partners In Caring program.

The Associates were selected to appear on boxes after the their ShopRite placed among the top 30 stores in a contest held in support of National Hunger Awareness Day and sponsored by ShopRite and General Mills.

For the first time, this year’s program also included a “Hunger-Fighting SuperKids” essay contest. Parents, teachers and community members submitted essays describing a child who displays a sense of responsibility to help fight hunger in the local community. The four “Hunger Fighting SuperKids” were selected based on their participation in activities to help fight hunger, the spirit in which the activities were conducted and results achieved.

The winners are: 2nd grader, Leah Berke of Niantic, CT; 3rd grader, Kyra Paillex of Pittstown, NJ; 4th grader, Connor Bailey of Windsor, CT; and 7th grader, Monica Murphy of Spring Lake Heights, NJ. Each SuperKid received 2,500 Box Tops for Education for their school and a $500 donation to the hunger-fighting organization of their choice. They will appear on the limited-edition Cheerios box, the seventh in a series, alongside the 60 ShopRite Associates from the tri-state area.

“We are so proud of the dedicated Associates who help to raise funds year after year for local food banks. This program is a great way for us to get behind our associates and recognize what they do for the community,” said Karen Meleta, spokesperson for ShopRite Partners In Caring. “We are also excited to recognize local children who take part in hunger-fighting activities and demonstrate the drive necessary to lead the fight against hunger for the next generation.”

ShopRite Associates raised more than $330,000 during the two-week contest by offering $1 donation cards to customers at checkout, constructing awareness displays and holding events to support the cause. General Mills donated an additional $20,000 to the ShopRite Partners In Caring Fund, a component fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey.

The winning stores are:

New Jersey:
ShopRite of Mansfield ShopRite of Hillsborough, ShopRite of Glassboro, ShopRite of Newton, ShopRite of Flemington, ShopRite of Greenwich, ShopRite of Mount Laurel, ShopRite of Succasunna, ShopRite of Rio Grande, ShopRite of Ramsey, ShopRite of Medford, ShopRite of Clinton, ShopRite of West Deptford, ShopRite of Laurel Hill, ShopRite of Marlton, ShopRite of Berlin, ShopRite of Jackson, ShopRite of Columbia Park, ShopRite of Williamstown, ShopRite of Byram, ShopRite of Palisades Park, ShopRite of Cherry Hill, ShopRite of Warwick, and ShopRite of Brookdale.

Pennsylvania:
ShopRite of Eddystone, ShopRite of Cheltenham, ShopRite of Bensalem, ShopRite of Oxford & Levick,

Connecticut:
ShopRite of Waterbury, ShopRite of Norwich.

The 2007 limited-edition Cheerios boxes will be available for sale on Sunday, October 28th at your local ShopRite.

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Giants, Fans Join ShopRite and Kraft in Bid to End Local Hunger

Tickets on sale for first-ever ‘Taste of the Giants’ benefit for ShopRite Partners In Caring

ELIZABETH, NJ – (October 15, 2007) – On Nov. 12 at the Giants Stadium Club in the Meadowlands, New York Giants fans will come down from the stands and get into the game alongside their favorite players for a Monday night showdown against hunger.

Tickets are on sale for the first-ever Taste of the Giants benefit for ShopRite Partners In Caring, a program that helps feed the hungry throughout the Metropolitan area. The Taste of the Giants benefit is presented in conjunction with ShopRite and Kraft Foods.

General admission tickets are $350 each and a limited number of VIP tickets are available for $500 each. The VIP ticket includes a pre-event reception with players, and an exclusive gift bag.

“Hunger is a growing concern in our local communities and we have a responsibility to make a difference,” said Rodnell Workman, New York Football Giants - Marketing Manager.  “We are excited about the launch of our first Taste of the Giants event and look forward to working with Kraft Foods and ShopRite Partners In Caring in making this a truly special event for our guests, fans and the community.”

Giants great Ottis Anderson and tight end Jeremy Shockey will lead a Taste of the Giants team that includes more than a dozen current and former Giants for an evening of food, fun and football. From 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., guests will socialize with Giants players and coaches at the Stadium Club, take a stadium tour that includes the Giants’ locker room and the playing field, and sample signature dishes by chefs from some of the area’s finest restaurants. Live and silent auctions will feature sports memorabilia, vacation packages and other unique items and experiences.

In addition to the restaurants Tao, Scalini Fideli, Tavern on Jane, Tribeca Grill and many others, Chef G. Garvin, host of Turn up the Heat on TV One, will prepare and share some of his favorite dishes. The official artist of the National Football League’s Taste of the NFL program, Charles Fazzino, will also be on hand to showcase his originals and sign prints.

Proceeds from the event will benefit ShopRite Partners In Caring, the year-round, community-based hunger-fighting program of ShopRite supermarkets. . “We are grateful to all of the chefs and the Giants who will volunteer their time and talents at the event to benefit the hungry in communities served by ShopRite stores,” said Karen Meleta, spokeswoman for ShopRite Partners In Caring.

Since its founding in 1999, ShopRite Partners In Caring has given $15 million to more than 1,400 food banks, food pantries, shelters, children’s and seniors’ centers, and other food-assistance programs in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and Pennsylvania.

“The New York Giants are heroes to so many for what they accomplish on the field, but their enthusiasm for this event and concern for the plight of the hungry shows me that they are also heroes committed to helping change lives for the better,” said Meleta.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.giants.com and www.shopritepartnersincaring.org or call (201) 935-8111 (ext 1075).

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About ShopRite
ShopRite supermarkets are members of Wakefern Food Corporation, a retailer-owned cooperative with stores throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Delaware. ShopRite serves more than 4 million customers each week. A long time supporter of community efforts, ShopRite has been named the New Jersey Corporate Philanthropist of the Year by the Community Foundation of New Jersey. America’s Second Harvest Food Bank Network also has recognized ShopRite as the Grocery Distributor of the year for its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, a year-round initiative dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities served by ShopRite. Since its inception, ShopRite Partners In Caring has donated $15 million to more than 1,400 charities.