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CONTACT: Jessica Dionne
617-646-3329
jdionne@schneiderpr.com

BASKIN-ROBBINS “ICE CREAM AND CAKE” DANCES ITS WAY TO WORLD RECORD

Extra TV’s Mario Lopez and Universal Cheerleaders Association Help Kick Off
Baskin-Robbins “Ice Cream and Cake” Dance Video Contest

CANTON, Mass. (August 3, 2009) – Baskin-Robbins, America’s favorite neighborhood ice cream shop, today announced the setting of a new Guinness World Record™ for the Largest Cheerleading Dance* to the tune of the “Ice Cream and Cake” song by the Buckwheat Boyz. To celebrate the launch of its new Ice Cream and Cake Dance Video Contest, Baskin-Robbins organized the Largest Cheerleading Dance, with Mario Lopez of Extra TV and Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA). The online contest asks Americans to channel their love of Baskin-Robbins and ice cream cake into creative dance videos for a chance to win a $10,000 grand prize.

Mario Lopez Helps Set New World Record
To kick off the Ice Cream and Cake Dance Video Contest, Baskin-Robbins hosted a Guinness World Record™ Largest Cheerleading Dance on Saturday, August 1, 2009. Mario Lopez welcomed a talented group of 225 cheerleaders who performed a choreographed dance to the “Ice Cream and Cake” song by the Buckwheat Boyz. Baskin-Robbins donated $1 for each record-setting participant, on behalf of the UCA, to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Grab Your Video Camera and Dance
The Ice Cream and Cake Dance Video Contest will accept entries through September 9, 2009. Entrants can log on to www.BaskinRobbins.com/VideoContest to download the “Ice Cream and Cake” song for free and upload their own creative dance videos to the site. Five semifinalists will be selected by a combination of public voting and expert judging by a panel of Baskin-Robbins and UCA judges. These semifinalists will then compete in a public vote for a chance to win one (1) Grand Prize of $10,000 and $1,000 in ice cream cake gift certificates, one (1) First Prize of $5,000 and $500 in ice cream cake gift certificates, and one (1) Second Prize of $1,000 and $100 in ice cream cake gift certificates. Prizes will be awarded based on a combination of the judging percentage score and the percentage score from the public vote. The top five semifinalists will be announced on or about September 25, and winners will be announced on or about October 12.

The contest is open to legal U.S. residents who are13-years-old or older at the time of entry. Each person can enter an unlimited number of different videos, with no purchase necessary to participate. Entries will be judged based on the following criteria: Choreography of the Ice Cream and Cake dance (35%); Overall Visual Appeal (20%); and Originality/Creativity (20%). The remaining 25% will be awarded through public voting. Full contest rules are available at: www.BaskinRobbins.com/VideoContest.

Ice Cream Cakes Starting at $9.99
The “Ice Cream and Cake” song is featured in Baskin-Robbins new advertising campaign. The campaign showcases the variety of ice cream cakes available at Baskin-Robbins for any occasion starting at just $9.99. The spot features Baskin-Robbins newest cake, the Brownie a la Mode, a dessert that serves up to 10 people at a suggested retail price of $9.99, or about $1 a slice. Stores may also reduce the price of a selection of classic Baskin-Robbins ice cream cakes to just $9.99, offering a great value to make every summer celebration more special.

“No food embodies ‘fun’ more than ice cream,” said Srinivas Kumar, Chief Brand Officer for Baskin-Robbins. “With the Guinness World Record attempt, the launch of our new Ice Cream and Cake Dance Video Contest, and our $9.99 ice cream cake offer, Baskin-Robbins is celebrating the creativity of our customers and helping to spread fun this summer.”

For more information about the Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream and Cake Dance Video Contest, go to Baskin-Robbins Facebook fan page or visit @BaskinRobbins on Twitter.

* Pending final approval from Guinness World Records™, Baskin-Robbins is now the official world record holder.

About Baskin-Robbins
Named the top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur magazine’s 29th annual Franchise 500® ranking, Baskin-Robbins is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops. Baskin-Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages, providing quality and value to consumers at more than 6,000 retail shops in 35 countries. Baskin-Robbins was founded by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,000 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats. Headquartered in Canton, Mass., Baskin-Robbins is part of the Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. family of companies. For further information, visit www.baskinrobbins.com.

About Universal Cheerleaders Association
Universal Cheerleaders Association was founded in 1974 by Jeff Webb to provide high quality educational training for college and high school cheerleaders through summer camps and clinics on college campuses. UCA’s goal is to inspire leadership on and off the field. UCA believes that the primary purpose of a cheerleader is to support athletic programs and lead the crowd before and during games. Cheerleaders play an instrumental role in raising, leading and maintaining school spirit in and around their communities. For more information, visit uca.varsity.com.

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CONTACT: Carrie Kocik/Kristen Ingraham
617-536-3300
ckocik@schneiderpr.com
kingraham@schneiderpr.com

MYSWEETHEARTS.COM – OUR HEARTS, YOUR WORDS

For the First Time, SWEETHEARTS^® Brand Invites All to Create the New Sweethearts Expressions

REVERE, Mass. (May 1, 2009) – When you have something sweet to say, say it with Sweethearts^®! For 145 years, Sweethearts, the official candy of love™, have provided sentimental and endearing ways for people to express their love. Now, for the first time in the history of the iconic brand, the New England Confectionery Company is inviting poets, texters, bloggers, and literary novices alike to create the next generation of conversation hearts that will appear in time for Valentine’s Day 2010. The “My Sweethearts – Our Hearts, Your Words” contest, at www.MySweethearts.com, offers consumers the opportunity to channel their expressions of affection into inspirational messages, with one lucky wordsmith winning a custom run of personalized Sweethearts, worth $8,000.

Beginning today and running through May 31, visitors to www.MySweethearts.com may submit their virtual Sweethearts masterpiece for consideration. Up to 80 chosen phrases, selected by a panel of judges, will be unveiled in January 2010. All entrants will be eligible to receive the grand prize of a custom run of personalized Sweethearts, worth $8,000. Those who submit one of the ten most popular phrases will be entered into a random drawing to receive one of ten Sweethearts Candy Care Packages, worth $100.

The writing challenge is open to all US residents ages 13 years or older. Each person may enter an unlimited number of phrases, with no purchase necessary to participate. The new Sweethearts expressions will be selected based on their relevance, popularity and overall creativity.

According to Jackie Hague, vice president at the New England Confectionery Company, this is the perfect time for Sweethearts to turn the iconic inscriptions over to the public. “Sweethearts have become America’s favorite Valentine’s Day candy because each candy heart provides a way for people to exchange their feelings with the ones they love,” she said. “It’s silly of us to think we know the best ways to say ‘I love you.’ With our new My Sweethearts – Our Hearts, Your Words contest, we want lovers, charmers, caregivers and friends to tell us the best ways to say sweet things to the people they care about.”

Sweethearts have been a Valentine tradition since President Abraham Lincoln was in office. In fact, the concept of Conversation Motto Hearts dates back to the 1800s when printed sayings on colored paper were placed in “Cockles,” small crisp candies formed in the shape of a scalloped shell. In 1866, Daniel Chase, brother of Oliver Chase, who founded New England Confectionery Company in 1847, invented the process which allows the sayings to be printed directly on the candy. Some of the original phrases include “Be Mine,” “Be Good,” “Be True,” “Kiss Me” and “Sweet Talk.” In recent years, more contemporary sayings have been added, including “E-mail Me” and “Text Me.”

Sweethearts are produced in two sizes – the standard 1/2 inch and larger 3/4 inch versions. Approximately two words with four letters each can be stamped on the small hearts and two words with five letters each can be used on the larger hearts. The New England Confectionery Company manufactures more than 8 billion Sweethearts annually

For more information about the contest, please visit www.MySweethearts.com and create your sweet message.

About New England Confectionery Company

The New England Confectionery Company was founded in 1847 and is the longest-running multi-line candy company in the United States. Popular brands include: NECCO^Ò Wafers, Clark^Ò bar, Sweethearts^Ò Conversation Hearts, Mary Jane^Ò, Haviland^Ò Thin Mints and Might Malts^Ò Malted Milk Balls. More than 500 seasonal and year-round products are produced at the company’s headquarters in Revere, Mass.

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Carrie Kocik/Kristen Ingraham
617-536-3300
ckocik@schneiderpr.com
kinggraham@schneiderpr.com

SWEETHEARTS® DAZZLE WITH NEW TWILIGHT-INSPIRED CANDIES

REVERE, MA (April 2009) – Twilight mania has gripped the country and now the New England Confectionery Company is introducing a new way for fans to savor the sweetness of the highly popular film from Summit Entertainment. For the first time in its more than 140-year history, Sweethearts^® has partnered with a movie franchise to incorporate a unique story-line into its “language of love” candy hearts. Twilight Sweethearts feature sentiments from the film and dazzle like one of the film’s lead characters, Edward Cullen, does in the sun.

The new special-edition Twilight Sweethearts phrases include, “Dazzle,” “Bite Me,” “I © EC,” “Live 4 Ever,” “Lamb,” “True Love,” “Secret,” “Soul Mate,” “Trust Me,” “I Trust You,” “Bad Guy,” “Forks” and “With You.” Each box smells like lead character Bella Swan’s scent of strawberry and features one of three designs highlighting Edward, Bella or the whole cast. This unique new candy also comes in “Forbidden Fruit” flavors, including Orange Obsession, Tempting Apple, Passion Fruit and Secret Strawberry. Twilight Sweethearts are fast becoming a coveted collector’s item, with Twilight fans snatching them off store shelves and other consumers selling them through on-line auction sites for more than $35 a box.

“We are so excited to be working with Summit Entertainment to bring the zeal and intensity of Twilight to an iconic American candy brand,” said Jacqueline Hague, New England Confectionery Company Vice President. “Sweethearts allow people to say fun, sweet things and Twilight delivers great new phrases for fans to share with their friends.”

Twilight Sweethearts are available for a suggested retail price of $2.99 for a 5 oz. theater-style box. Each box contains a combination of Twilight-inspired sayings. These collectable candies are available at retailers nationwide, including Wal-Mart, Borders, FYE and Blockbuster.

About Sweethearts®

Made in America, Sweethearts have been a tradition for more than a century. The concept of Conversation Motto Hearts dates back to the 1800s when printed sayings on colored paper were placed in “Cockles,” small crisp candies formed in the shape of a scalloped shell. In 1866, Daniel Chase, brother of Oliver Chase, who founded The New England Confectionery Company in 1847, invented the process that allows the sayings to be printed directly on the candy. Some of the original phrases that are still included in the more than 100 sayings produced are “Be Mine,” “Be Good,” “Be True,” “Kiss Me,” and “Sweet Talk.”

As the top-selling iconic Valentine’s Day treat, more than eight billion Sweethearts, or about 100,000 pounds of the candy hearts, are produced every day. Fat-free, gluten free, allergen-free and sodium-free, Sweethearts are one of the few treats that candy lovers young and old can enjoy without guilt. Each small heart has three calories and no fat.

About The New England Confectionery Company
The New England Confectionery Company (www.necco.com) was founded in 1847 and is the longest running, multi-line candy company in the United States. With more than 160 years of history, the New England Confectionery Company’s popular brands include: Sweethearts®, NECCO Wafers®, Mary JaneÒ, ClarkÒ, Haviland®, Canada Mints®, Skybar®, Squirrel Nut Zippers®, Café Select®, Mighty Malts®, Candy House®, Masterpieces® and Candy Cupboard®. Today, the New England Confectionery Company is a leader in seasonal products, particularly for Valentine’s Day, and also manufactures well-loved everyday products. More than 500 confectionery items are produced at the company’s state-of-the-art headquarters in Revere, MA, which has consistently received a Superior rating from the American Institute of Baking. The New England Confectionery Company also produces private label products and performs contract manufacturing for other confectionery companies. American Capital, Ltd. (NASDAQ: ACAS) acquired the New England Confectionery Company in 2007.

About Summit Entertainment LLC

Summit Entertainment is a worldwide theatrical motion picture development, financing, production and distribution studio. The studio handles all aspects of marketing and distribution for both its own internally developed motion pictures as well as acquired pictures. Summit Entertainment, LLC also represents international sales for both its own slate and third party product. Summit Entertainment, LLC plans to release 10 to 12 films annually.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Danielle Sullivan/Genevieve Lee
On Behalf of Baskin-Robbins
617-536-3300
dsullivan@schneiderpr.com
glee@schneiderpr.com

BASKIN-ROBBINS OFFERS A SWEET DEAL WITH ITS THIRD ANNUAL 31 CENT SCOOP NIGHT EVENT

CANTON, Mass. (April 15, 2009) – Mark your calendars – 31 Cent Scoop Night is back at Baskin-Robbins! America’s favorite neighborhood ice cream shop is sweetening the spring season by hosting its third annual 31 Cent Scoop Night celebration on April 29, 2009, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., at all Baskin-Robbins locations nationwide. During the event, the iconic ice cream brand will thank its loyal customers by reducing the price of all 2.5 oz. ice cream scoops to just 31 cents.

As part of 31 Cent Scoop Night, Baskin-Robbins will make a $100,000 donation to the National Volunteer Fire Council’s (NVFC) National Junior Firefighter Program. The program serves as an umbrella for local junior firefighter programs nationwide, which educate youths about the vital, life-saving work of emergency service members and help prepare future firefighters to keep our communities safe. The donation will provide scholarships to outstanding junior firefighters and support the National Junior Firefighter Program. In addition, on 31 Cent Scoop Night, select neighborhood Baskin-Robbins shops will invite their local fire departments to collect donations and scoop ice cream.

“Baskin-Robbins 31 Cent Scoop Night is our way of building community spirit and celebrating the dedicated firefighters who keep us all safe,” said Scott Colwell, Baskin-Robbins global marketing officer. “With so many families looking for opportunities to have fun without spending a lot of money, we’re happy to offer our customers the simple pleasure of a scoop of their favorite ice cream for only 31 cents.”

A Sweet Celebration

Ice cream lovers are encouraged to add some sweetness to the spring season by visiting any Baskin-Robbins store nationwide between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. on April 29. During the event, customers can choose any flavor of ice cream and pay only 31 cents.* In time for 31 Cent Scoop Night, Baskin-Robbins is bringing back the original Daiquiri Ice and seasonal favorite Baseball Nut, as well as introducing Premium Churned Light Cappuccino Chip to the BRight Choices flavor offering. This event is also the perfect time to try new flavors, such as Made with Snickers^®, or signature favorites like Jamoca^® Almond Fudge, Pralines ‘n Cream or Gold Medal Ribbon^®.

During 31 Cent Scoop Night last year, Baskin-Robbins scooped more than four million scoops of ice cream!

Honoring Junior Firefighters

In addition to making a $100,000 donation to the NVFC, Baskin-Robbins is partnering with the NVFC to honor 25 exemplary junior firefighters who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and service to their junior firefighter program. Chosen from nominations submitted through the National Junior Firefighter Program, honorees will enjoy free Baskin-Robbins ice cream for a year and will be recognized on the NVFC’s website, www.nvfc.org. Honorees will also roll up their sleeves on 31 Cent Scoop Night and attend events at their local Baskin-Robbins stores to scoop ice cream and help raise funds for their departments.

“We greatly appreciate Baskin-Robbins support of the National Junior Firefighter Program through this generous $100,000 donation,” said Heather Schafer, NVFC executive director. “Providing scholarships to those who have shown dedication and commitment to the emergency services helps us ensure there will be firefighters to keep our communities safe for years to come.”

For more information about 31 Cent Scoop Night go to Baskin-Robbins Facebook event page or visit www.baskinrobbins.com.

* The cost of a 2.5 oz scoop of ice cream (or a 3 oz. Soft Serve cone) from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on April 29, 2009 will be 31 cents plus applicable tax. To ensure everyone can enjoy 31 Cent Scoop Night, there is a three scoop limit per person.

About Baskin-Robbins

Named the top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur magazine’s 29^th annual Franchise 500^® ranking, Baskin-Robbins is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops. Baskin-Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages, providing quality and value to consumers at more than 6,000 retail shops in 35 countries. Baskin-Robbins was founded by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,000 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats. Headquartered in Canton, Mass., Baskin-Robbins is part of the Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. family of companies. For further information, visit www.baskinrobbins.com.

About The National Volunteer Fire Council

The National Volunteer Fire Council is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides invaluable tools, resources, programs, and advocacy for first responders across the nation. The Council’s National Junior Firefighters Program helps strengthen the future of the fire service by engaging youth to learn about and participate in their local fire and emergency service organization, thus fostering a lifelong connection. For more information, visit www.nvfc.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

CONTACT: Danielle Sullivan
On Behalf of Baskin-Robbins
617-536-3300
dsullivan@schneiderpr.com

BASKIN-ROBBINS^® RINGS IN 2009 WITH NEW MENU LINE-UP OF BETTER-FOR-YOU BRIGHT CHOICES^™ TREATS

America’s Favorite Neighborhood Ice Cream Shop Celebrates New Lighter Treats with Free Offer on January 15

CANTON, Mass. (Dec. 29, 2008) – Baskin-Robbins^®, America’s favorite neighborhood ice cream shop, is ringing in the New Year early with the introduction of BRight Choices^™ treats. BRight Choices are better-for-you light ice cream options including fat free, dairy free, no sugar added and light ice cream offerings. BRight Choices flavors have all the great taste and quality customers expect from Baskin-Robbins but with less guilt. To celebrate the launch of BRight Choices, Baskin-Robbins is celebrating the bright choices customers make each day with BRight Choices Day on Jan. 15, 2009. On BRight Choices Day, participating Baskin-Robbins shops nationwide will offer a free BRight Choices scoop to any customer with proof of a gym membership.

An estimated 80 million Americans go on a diet each year¹. For ice cream lovers who may be on a diet or are just simply looking for Baskin-Robbins quality and flavor with less fat and fewer calories, BRight Choices offerings are the perfect treats, ranging from 80 to 140 calories per 2.5 ounce scoop. To help guide ice cream lovers, all BRight Choices offerings will be indicated by a special pink star decal on the ice cream flavor strips in stores.

“Baskin-Robbins is known for its quality and variety of delicious flavors,” said Scott Colwell, Baskin-Robbins brand marketing officer worldwide. “Our new BRight Choices flavors are perfect for customers who are looking for a lighter treat but still crave Baskin-Robbins quality ice cream.”

BRight Choices Day on Jan. 15, 2009

January can be a difficult month – the holidays are over, New Year’s resolutions are beginning, and everyone is still feeling the effects of holiday feasts. But the New Year is the perfect time to start making brighter choices. To help ice cream lovers get through the mid-January blues and to celebrate bright choices made each day, Baskin-Robbins is hosting BRight Choices Day nationwide on Jan. 15 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Customers who show proof of a gym membership at a participating Baskin-Robbins shop will receive a free 2.5 ounce scoop of any BRight Choices flavor.

“I am always looking for new guilt-free foods that satisfy my cravings,” said Lisa Lillien, the founder of hungry-girl.com, a Web site providing tips and tricks on how to enjoy favorite foods. “Baskin-Robbins BRight Choices flavors are a great way to indulge in delicious ice cream without taking in a lot of calories or fat.”

BRight Choices – Look for the Star

BRight Choices is Baskin-Robbins first full menu of better-for-you frozen treats. In Jan. 2008, the company removed all artificial Trans Fats from its ice cream. In addition, Dunkin’ Brands, the parent company of Baskin-Robbins, formed a Nutrition Advisory Board in 2007 comprised of leading nutrition experts, to help the brands stay ahead of health and wellness trends while enhancing the nutritional value of its menu choices.

BRight Choices provides a variety of options for customers looking for a lighter treat. Ice cream lovers can also make their favorite sundaes and frozen beverages into lighter treats by using BRight Choices flavor options. BRight Choices treats will be available year-round with Premium Churned Light Vanilla and Milk Chocolate, and Fat Free Frozen Vanilla Yogurt permanent additions to the dipping cabinet. Additional new BRight Choices flavors will be introduced throughout the year.

Premium Churned Light Ice Cream – 50 percent less fat and 20 percent fewer calories than Baskin-Robbins regular ice cream

• Vanilla: Light Vanilla flavored ice cream made with fresh cream and real vanilla, 130 calories and 4.5 grams of fat in a 2.5 ounce scoop
• Milk Chocolate: Rich and creamy light Milk Chocolate ice cream, 130 calories and 4.5 grams of fat in a 2.5 ounce scoop
• Raspberry Chip: Light Raspberry flavored ice cream with bittersweet chocolate chips and a raspberry ribbon, 140 calories and 4 grams of fat in a 2.5 ounce scoop (Available through March, while supplies last)

Premium Churned Reduced Fat No Sugar Added Ice Cream – 25 percent less fat than Baskin-Robbins regular ice cream

• Butter Almond Crunch: Reduced fat Butter Almond flavored ice cream with butter roasted almonds, 140 calories and 7 grams of fat in a 2.5 ounce scoop (Available through March, while supplies last)
• Pineapple Coconut: Reduced fat Pineapple Coconut ice cream with chunks of pineapple, 100 calories and 4 grams of fat in a 2.5 ounce scoop (Available through June, while supplies last)

Frozen Yogurt – Fat free and made with live and active cultures

• Vanilla: Creamy fat free Vanilla frozen yogurt, made with live and active cultures, 90 calories and 0 grams of fat in a 2.5 ounce scoop
  

Real Fruit Sorbet – Fat free and dairy free

• Strawberry Sorbet: Real fruit Strawberry sorbet made with strawberry puree and strawberries, 80 calories and 0 grams of fat in a 2.5 ounce scoop (Available through March, while supplies last)

About Baskin-Robbins

Named the top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur magazine’s 30^th annual Franchise 500^® ranking, Baskin-Robbins is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops. Baskin-Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages, providing quality and value to consumers at more than 5,800 retail shops in more than 30 countries. Baskin-Robbins was founded by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,000 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats. Headquartered in Canton, Mass., Baskin-Robbins is part of the Dunkin’ Brands, Inc. family of companies. For further information, visit www.baskinrobbins.com.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RAMPART AND NOMURA INK DEAL ON EQUITY OPTION STRATEGIES

Boston-based Asset Manager Debuts Option Strategies Internationally to Japanese Bank’s High Net Worth Clients Through Launch of MCC Trust

BOSTON (May 12, 2008) – Rampart Investment Management, a leading asset management firm specializing in option strategies, today announced it has signed a joint agreement with The Nomura Trust and Banking Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Japan’s Nomura Holdings, Inc. (TSE: 8604), to offer equity option strategies to Nomura’s Japanese high net worth clients.

The options program, named the Managed Covered Call (MCC) Trust, is Rampart’s first-ever international rollout of its options-based investment strategies. It is also the first time such a service has been offered to investors in Japan. Rampart currently manages and monitors customized covered call writing strategies, either directly or through financial intermediaries, for a wide variety of taxable and tax-exempt investors in the U.S. Rampart’s domestic investment model serves as the foundation for the MCC Trust program.

By working with Rampart, Nomura Trust and Banking will be able to extend its offering of active management services for high net worth clients and enable them to put their stock positions to effective use.

“Rampart’s capacity to assist investors with monetizing stock and market volatility to their benefit has resulted in increasing interest from international financial institutions that want to help their clients identify additional sources of cash flow by embracing option strategies,” said Ronald M. Egalka, president and chief executive officer of Rampart. “The MCC Trust underscores Rampart’s ability to deliver our option competencies globally beginning with our relationship with one of Japan’s leading trust banks.”

Rampart will implement its equity option strategies for Nomura’s high net worth clients by harnessing the capabilities of the Rampart Options Management System (ROMS^®), a mathematically-driven, proprietary technology platform. Rampart and ROMS can help Nomura’s clients capitalize on income potential and enhance portfolio returns on their concentrated equity positions while hedging against potential risk from fluctuating stock prices.

About Rampart

Founded in 1983, Rampart Investment Management is a leading asset manager specializing in option strategies. With more than USD 12.7 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2007, Rampart manages client positions and portfolios using domestic and international listed and over-the-counter (OTC) index and equity options. Rampart’s investment solutions can add value to a broad spectrum of U.S. and international financial service companies, tax exempt institutional clients, mutual funds, brokerage firms, insurance companies, asset managers, high net worth individuals, family offices, foundations, endowments, banks, and law firms. For more information, visit www.rimco.com.

Contact:

Ashley DePaolo
Schneider Associates
617-646-3317
adepaolo@schneiderpr.com

# # #

CONTACT:
Scott Beaudoin
617-536-3300
sbeaudoin@schneiderpr.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW REPORT FINDS U.S. CITIES MORE VULNERABLE THAN
EVER TO RODENT INFESTATION

Local Government Budget Shortfalls Have Experts Warning Homeowners to Take Matters into Their Own Hands This Fall

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (Sept. 27, 2007) – Wacky weather, aging cities, and urban sprawl have rats on the move across the country. Foremost rodent experts Dale Kaukeinen and Dr. Bruce Colvin, in partnership with d-CON, America’s leading rodenticide, have issued an assessment on the country’s rodent problem identifying four key risk factors plaguing cities and towns across the country, including:

• Aging Infrastructure – Older cities like the ones found in the Northeast, and some in the Midwest, are experiencing aging infrastructure such as sewer systems, street and sidewalks, areas of older unkept housing and subway systems. According to Kauekinen and Colvin, these all attribute to increased rodent activity.

• Resurgence of U.S. Cities as Residential Areas – Over the past few decades, cities across the country have experienced gentrification and development with a resurgence in living space, construction, and expanding shopping and cultural centers. This trend is proving to be an ideal environment for rodents due to the density of people and the abundance of food waste from residents, businesses and local eateries.

• Unseasonably Warm and Wet Weather – Cities with warm, wet conditions this past year, such as those in South and Southwest, have higher risk factors for increased deterioration of structures and support the growth of lush weeds and overgrown areas providing natural food and cover for rodents. Warmer weather also aids rodent survival and reproductive rates.

• Rodent Mitigation Funding – Kaukeinen and Colvin note the cities across the country no longer receive federal subsidies for rodent programs as was prevalent in the 1970s and 1980s. States and local municipalities have not picked up the gap in funding, opting to take a reactive approach by responding to complaints, rather than executing proactive citywide plans.

About the Report

This Rodent Risk Assessment was developed by using the latest U.S. Census Bureau statistics to reveal 14 risk factors related to cities and their environments. These factors included everything from human population, climate, and solid waste management annual rainfall. The authors of the report, Kaukeinen and Colvin, have been involved in the research and development of many of today’s most innovative pest control products, strategies and programs.

“Through detailed scientific research, we have determined the most common causes of rodent infestation across the country,” said Kaukeinen. “It is important to assess risk factors, so that cities and consumers are aware of a potential problem, and are equipped with the tools and knowledge to control immediate issues and implement long-term solutions.”

“Since the 70’s and 80’s, federal funding of rodent mitigation programs has dropped tremendously,” added Kaukeinen. “This has left municipalities to fend for themselves. This decrease in rodent mitigation budgets, coupled with many cities aging infrastructure has created a perfect environment for the survival of a robust rodent population. More than ever, people need to take measures to prevent rodent infestations from occurring in their businesses and homes.”

According to the Rodent Risk Assessment, the cities most vulnerable to rodent problems this fall include New York, Houston, Boston, Louisville, Ky., Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Chicago, El Paso, Texas and Milwaukee, Wis.

Homeowners Beware

Rodents can gnaw through metal, plastic and wood, damaging furniture and homes, and can destroy electrical wiring and insulation, causing fires and other problems. These issues are a reality for many homeowners as rodents can enter a home through a dime-sized crack in the foundation.  In addition, rodents can bite people, especially small children, and are known carriers of a variety of diseases, including hantavirus, salmonella and leptospirosis. Rodents have also been linked to childhood allergies and asthma.

The fall season is when most rodent infestations occur, as rodents reach their annual abundance. As the weather cools in much of the country, rats and mice move inside in search of food and shelter.

Help Is On The Way

To prevent increased rodent infestations this fall, Kaukeinen and Colvin have teamed up with d-CON to launch the “Good Riddance to Rodents” campaign. Kaukeinen and Colvin will be traveling to cities across the country to educate community leaders on the threat rodents present, and to provide tips, training, and prevention techniques on how to combat the impending problem.  For homeowners, Kaukeinen and Colvin offer five simple tips:

1. Keep all trash in sealed containers and remove junk piles

2. Don’t leave food out on counters overnight and limit access to pet food and bird seed

3. Seal up any holes or cracks in foundations (rodents can fit through a hole the size of a dime)

4. Cut brush and bushes back at least a foot from the home/building

5. Stock up on baits and traps, such as d-CON, to manage infestations effectively

The full 2007 Rodent Risk Assessment is available upon request. For more information on d-CON products, please visit www.d-conproducts.com.

About d-CON

d-CON is America’s #1 rodent control brand, successfully killing rodents for more than 50  years. The brand’s iconic yellow box, arrow logo, and wedge-shaped containers have served for years as a visual guidepost for consumer choice. The brand offers a comprehensive line of rodent control products including five baits and four traps. d-CON products are sold in a variety of retail environments including home centers, mass merchandisers, home improvement and hardware stores, drug stores and supermarkets.

About Reckitt Benckiser

Reckitt Benckiser Inc. is a subsidiary of U.K.-based Reckitt Benckiser plc, the world leader in household cleaning (excluding laundry) and a major player in health and personal care. Reckitt Benckiser Inc. manufactures, markets and sells household, cleaning and specialty food products in North America. These products include Lysol(R) cleaners and disinfectants, Air Wick(R) air fresheners, Resolve(R) cleaners, Electrasol(R) automatic dishwasher detergent, Veet(R) depilatory, Jet-Dry(R) rinse agent, Spray ‘n Wash(R) laundry stain removers, and French’s(R) foods, including Mustard and GourMayo(TM).

With more than 20,000 employees, operations in 60 countries and sales in 180 countries, as well as global sales of more than $5 billion, Reckitt Benckiser is among the top 30 companies in the FTSE 100 index, is a constituent of the MSCI Global Index and S&P Global 350, and is in the Forbes International 500 and Business Week European Top 50. For additional information about Reckitt Benckiser, visit www.reckittbenckiser.com.

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CONTACT:
Shawna Sullivan
Office: (617) 646-3336
Cell: (978) 273 – 8478
ssullivan@schneiderpr.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEADOW WALK AT LYNNFIELD RECEIVES TOWN MEETING APPROVAL TO TRANSFORM COLONIAL SITE INTO VIBRANT, MIXED-USE COMMUNITY

National Development to Build 68-acre Village Adjacent to Route 128

LYNNFIELD, Mass. (May 2, 2007) – Newton-based National Development received approval from a record number of Lynnfield Town Meeting voters on Monday, April 30, to rezone the 202-acre Sheraton Colonial Golf Course site adjacent to Route 128. The Meadow Walk at Lynnfield project will transform 68 acres of the golf course into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly village incorporating 395,000 square feet of lifestyle retail, 80,000 square feet of office space, and 180 residential units, while preserving 103 acres of permanent open space for the community. The rezoning is permitted under Massachusetts Chapter 40R, the state’s new “smart-growth” incentive that encourages communities to develop housing in conjunction with mixed-use space.

Meadow Walk at Lynnfield will feature upscale shops, fine dining, and premier office space anchored by an organic grocer and centered around a spacious town green. Its design evokes the feel of a small, New England town center. Meadow Walk will also include 40 owner-occupied units of housing for Lynnfield residents ages 60 and over to be developed in partnership with Lynnfield Initiative For the Elderly (LIFE). The 280-room Sheraton Hotel and the Boston Sports Club will remain on site, but the hotel will undergo renovations.

“Meadow Walk at Lynnfield is a premier example of innovative, mixed-use development where people will be able to live, work, shop and play,” said Ted Tye, managing partner for National Development. “This high-end, ‘main street’ village will reflect the heritage of Lynnfield and will be the region’s premier upscale retail, office and residential development.”

The Lynnfield Town Meeting drew a record 1,983 Lynnfield residents, with an overwhelming 81 percent voting in favor of the rezoning. The Meadow Walk proposal had been reviewed at numerous town meetings and forums over the last year and was unanimously endorsed by Lynnfield’s Board of Selectmen and Planning Board.

Tye indicated that his firm intends to be innovative in its design of Meadow Walk. “We have used the best town centers from throughout New England as our models for the development,” said Tye. “Meadow Walk will have the look and feel of a classic New England ‘main street’ with an incredible mix of shopping, restaurants, offices and housing.”

Construction on Meadow Walk is scheduled to begin in 2008. The Sheraton Colonial Hotel and Boston Sports Club will remain open through construction. The golf course will continue to operate through the 2007 season.

About National Development
National Development is an interdisciplinary real estate company that provides development, construction, asset management and investment acquisition services. The Newton, Mass.-based firm is ranked as one of the largest development companies in Mass. National Development has a diverse product base with major projects in the office, industrial, retail, senior housing, multifamily, hotel and institutional sectors. Since 1983, National Development has developed more than fourteen million square feet in 40 communities throughout the region.

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