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GOSHEN, IN – PRNewswire 

To celebrate National Pretzel Day on April 26, Ben’s Soft Pretzels will give away free pretzels (one per person) with a minimum $1 donation to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (IFHF).

In fact, 100 percent of the donations collected for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund on National Pretzel Day will go toward building new Intrepid Spirit centers for military personnel who suffer from traumatic brain injury or psychological health conditions. All of the administrative costs of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund are underwritten by the Fund’s Board of Directors. In total, Ben’s Soft Pretzels has raised more than $100,000 for the IFHF in the last few years.

The soft pretzel franchise will also be giving away a year’s worth of free pretzels to one lucky fan via a contest app on its Facebook page. Pretzel fans can enter to win by filling out the entry form found at www.facebook.com/benspretzels and listing the name of their favorite service member.

“We are so proud to support an organization as incredible as the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund on our favorite day of the year. The success of the National Pretzel Day promotion is a testament to the generosity of our customers who understand the sacrifice of the men and women of the U.S. military and their families, and are eager to give back,” said Scott Jones, CEO and co-founder of Ben’s Soft Pretzels.

“We are so grateful to Ben’s Soft Pretzels and all of their customers for their generosity and willingness to give back to our military heroes,” said David Winters, President of the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. “We are proud to be able to say that 100% of every donation to the IFHF, every cent, directly goes to building these Intrepid Spirit centers.”

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – PRWEB

HomeSmart has been ranked the No. 5 largest broker in the nation in the 2018 RISMedia Power Broker Report.

The Power Broker 1000 ranks the top-performing brokerage firms in the country. Celebrating their 30th anniversary, RISMedia released the annual survey based on the previous year’s productivity.

“Year after year, we continue to focus on improving the business systems and technology we provide our agents,” said HomeSmart International Chief Operating Officer Wendy Forsythe. “This allows them to stay focused on providing the real estate experience today’s consumer expects. We are proud of our growing network of agents across the country and honored that HomeSmart has been once again recognized by RISMedia.”

For seven consecutive years, HomeSmart has been included in the RISMedia ranking, specifically in the survey’s top 10 real estate companies for the second year in a row. HomeSmart moved up an incredible four spots from the previous year, coming in at No. 9 in 2016.

In just one year, HomeSmart’s closed residential transactions have increased by more than 9,000, bringing their total count to 33,601 transactions, up 37.8 percent from the previous year. The brokerage increased their annual sales volume by nearly $4 billion, landing at a total of $10,369,070,559 or an increase of 49.9 percent, according to the 2018 report based on last years records.

“The quality of our agents and brokers allows us to continue to grow as a real estate company and surpass our previous achievements,” said Matt Widdows, HomeSmart International founder and CEO and HomeSmart brokerage owner. “It is humbling to see our company rise in the rankings, but it is also incentive to keep working to be the best brokerage we can be.”

The Patch Boys, a rapidly expanding concept specializing in quick drywall repairs, has opened multiple locations in the Denver Metro area. Daniel and Cindy McCoy, two very well-respected local entrepreneurs, led the acquisition and launch of the franchise. It marks the latest franchise locations for The Patch Boys brand, which is headquartered in Central NJ and is the 1st locations in the Denver CO area.

A completely mobile business, The Patch Boys provides homeowners, landlords, property managers and business owners with a highly focused wall patching service – a specialization that most general contractors, electricians, plumbers, handymen and construction companies don’t want to do or can’t do very well.

“I have been searching for a business over the past 12 months, and I am 100% confident that The Patch Boys is the right fit for us” said Daniel McCoy. “We’re very eager and excited to be able to provide drywall services to the Denver metro area, and I am looking forward to offer the service to the locals and giving them my 110% every single time I step foot into their homes and showing them The Patch Boys tradition of success.”

“I am always excited when we open new The Patch Boys locations, but this one is really special” said Leo Goldberger, Founder and President. “Daniel and Cindy are two of the most energetic people I have ever met, their hard work ethics and commitment is simply contagious and the locals in the Denver area are in for a treat to work with the McCoy’s” continued Goldberger.

In addition to working with homeowners, landlords and property management companies, The Patch Boys also subcontracts services directly to general contractors, roofers, electricians, plumbers, HVAC companies and other trade professionals who may not have the time or resources to repair damages to drywall as a result of their services. Moreover, a simple business model and proprietary computer technology allows Patch Boys franchise owners the luxury of operating the business from the comfort of their own homes.

KANSAS CITY, MO –  GLOBE NEWSWIRE

The April 17 deadline is closing in on millions of taxpayers who still need to file their tax returns. Approximately 60 percent of taxpayers go to a tax professional to prepare and file their return for them, while the other 40 percent will go the do-it-yourself route and find a product to help them with the prep and filing process. At H&R Block, products are provided for all these taxpayers and even those who want to combine methods.

“When it comes down to how to file a tax return, some of the biggest factors in choosing between DIY or assisted is the taxpayer’s comfort with their tax situation and the level of involvement they want to have in the process,” said Heather Watts, senior vice president and general manager of digital at H&R Block.

H&R Block’s product innovations can help all taxpayers do their taxes in the way that works best for them, while still getting the best value in tax preparation.

Get assisted tax prep by going to a tax office – or not going to a tax office

People get their taxes prepared by a tax professional for many reasons. Some people sit down with a tax professional because they believe that it will end up saving them time and money. Others see a professional because they want to be sure they claim every tax credit and deduction they’re entitled to.

“At H&R Block tax offices, clients with all types of concerns and questions can be assisted,” said Karen Orosco, senior vice president of U.S. retail for H&R Block. “Some clients might find it beneficial to explore our Block Advisors offices, which serve clients who are seeking personalized expertise for their unique tax situation with a 365 Tax Plan to help them get an even better outcome next year.”

While many clients want to watch their tax return being prepared by a tax professional others would prefer to skip that part and, with H&R Block Tax Pro Go?, now they can. H&R Block Tax Pro Go? enables clients to get their taxes prepared and filed by a tax professional based on the information they provide online. Their tax professional will ensure every tax deduction and credit to which clients are entitled will be found, and will get the client their maximum tax refund. Clients will know their price upfront, starting at less than $60 for one federal and one state return.

Do-it- yourself taxes all ‘alone’ – or, maybe have them checked by a tax pro

Typically, DIY clients like the flexibility and convenience of preparing their own tax returns, and with online and desktop software options, H&R Block clients can find an option that will help them file an accurate return and get them their maximum refund.

“When taxpayers think about filing their own tax returns, there are plenty of companies vying for their attention, but H&R Block is the only company that has products backed by more than 60 years in the tax industry,” Watts said. “Even with all the expertise in our products, H&R Block offers the best value in DIY tax prep products – no matter how simple or complex the tax situation.”

New this season, H&R Block added a new Self-Employed product designed specifically for the estimated 60 million freelancers, independent contractors and other self-employed taxpayers. Self-Employed integrates the mobile expense tracking app Stride Tax, and joins the Free, Deluxe and Premium in the H&R Block Online DIY product lineup. Plus, with Tax Pro Review?, all DIY online clients can get additional help by having their completed DIY return reviewed and signed by a tax professional – without going to a tax office. Tax Pro Review? is the reinvention of H&R Block’s Best of Both service, which the company started offering more than a decade ago.

H&R Block added “drag and drop” to the desktop software, making it easier for desktop software users to import last year’s tax return done by any tax prep service. This also saves clients time by seamlessly prepopulating information on their tax return.

Taxpayers have multiple ways online to access H&R Block, including through the H&R Block apps, H&R Block DIY online products, downloaded H&R Block DIY software products or an appointment at an H&R Block retail tax office.

Columbia, MD – The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® today opens its doors to its seventh Delaware location in Wilmington at 307 Rocky Run Parkway.

The first 100 Greene Turtle fans who dine in or order to go will receive a $10 rewards card every month for one year. The restaurant has partnered with The Greene Turtle Lacrosse Club of Delaware, where $1 from every Boardwalk Iced Tea and Boardwalk Lemonade sold during the opening month will be donated to the organization. In addition, the restaurant will hold a silent auction benefitting the A.I. DuPont Pediatric Hospital for the first 30 days after opening where guests can bid on the #1 mug for their Mug Club.

The new 6,300 square foot location will seat approximately 230 guests inside the dining room and outside on the patio and will feature 26 beers on tap. The restaurant will create over 85 jobs in the local community.

“We are thrilled to continue the expansion of The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® in Delaware with the opening of our Wilmington location” said Pradip Saha from Pusan Investments, franchisee of The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® in Wilmington. “Guests are invited to join us as we delight in our favorites: sports, food and good company.”

The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® is a community hangout for all ages that serves great food and drinks in a fun, casual atmosphere built on the excitement and unity of sports. With the grand opening of the new location officially announced, Wilmington residents can look forward to the following:

• A family-friendly atmosphere for all occasions – Bring the whole family to The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® for a place where kids can watch sports at the dinner table and not get in trouble. Bonus points: no dishes or clean up required!

• The perfect spot to catch a game – The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® offers a fantastic atmosphere for sports fans to catch the game. With TVs located everywhere throughout the restaurant, there is never a bad seat in the house.

• A salute to the military – As a salute to their commitment and sacrifice for our country, active and retired military will receive a 15 percent discount on all food courtesy of The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille®.

• A community partner – The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® is committed to helping its local communities. To date, it has supported numerous communities by hosting special events, supporting local teams with sponsorships and spearheading fundraising opportunities through programs like Tips for Tots and Funds for Friends. For more information or to submit a fundraising request, please visit The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® website.

• A Maryland-based menu and a brew for any palate – Guests will enjoy a menu modeled after The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille®’s Eastern Shore roots with featured items like Maryland crab cakes, Maryland crab dip, more than a dozen burger combinations and 10 varieties of wings. To pair with the various food offerings, The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® features more than 30 different local and national beers—both draft and bottle—that will please the palate of any beer drinker. There are also craft beers available including Shell Raiser, brewed exclusively for The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® by DuClaw Brewing Company, Dale’s Pale Ale, Victory’s Golden Monkey, Sly Fox Dunkel Lager, Freewill Techno IPA and Rogue Hazelnut Brown Nectar. Beer offerings will vary by season and location.

• Exclusive membership to The Mug Club – Through the Mug Club, patrons can own a piece of The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® with the purchase of their own mug at their local restaurant that is numbered and waiting for them each time they visit. Members of the club will enjoy $1 off every draft, as well as other routine discounts on draft beers and specials, member-only events and exclusive offers. There are currently 30,000 Mug Club members nationwide.

With the addition of the new Wilmington location, The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille®, which first opened in Ocean City, Maryland, in 1976, has 46 locations in seven states and the District of Columbia. The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille® is a community hangout for all ages that serves great food and drinks in a fun, casual atmosphere built on the excitement and unity of sports.

CARROLLTON, TX – PRNewswire

FASTSIGNS International, Inc., a leading sign and graphics franchisor with more than 675 locations worldwide, recently recognized five FASTSIGNS® franchisees for their local charitable works and community involvement as part of the FASTSIGNS Cares initiative. Franchisees across the United States and Canada participate in local philanthropic efforts throughout the year, including providing free or discounted signs and graphics, volunteering time, hosting events, donating banners to returning military servicemen and women, and giving financial donations to local organizations.
This year, winners of the internal “Show Us How You Care” initiative were chosen by their peers during the 2018 FASTSIGNS International Convention in Houston, Texas. In addition to the recognition, each franchisee recognized earned a donation of $1,000 for their local charity of choice:

FASTSIGNS of Windsor, Ontario, Canada, owned by Jackie Raymond and Donna Bilodeau, donated $1,000 to The Hospice of Windsor and Essex County.
FASTSIGNS of San Antonio – Northwest, owned by Stephanie and Chuck Drileck, donated $1,000 to the Petco Foundation.
FASTSIGNS of Orlando – Central, owned by Renee Friedman, donated $1,000 to Friends of Down Syndrome.
FASTSIGNS of Englewood – Littleton, owned by Barbara and Matt Metcalf and Larissa and Dan Croll, donated $1,000 to Developmental Disabilities Resource Center – Weiland Center Parent Advisory Board.
FASTSIGNS of Uniontown, owned by Brenda Stipanovich, donated $1,000 to the American Heart Association.
Donations of $250 were made on behalf of five additional “Show Us How You Care” finalists to their local charities of choice, which included Stembassadors in Ventura, California; The Children’s Shelter in Lawrence, Kansas; Special Kneads & Treats Bakery in Snellville, Georgia; Delta Young Life in Antioch, California; and Cove Valley Youth Camp in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.
“We know that FASTSIGNS centers do a lot in their local communities to give back and make a positive impact,” said Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc. “We are so proud of the many ways FASTSIGNS franchisees and their teams serve others. Through the FASTSIGNS ‘Show Us How You Care’ awards, we recognize the wonderful acts of kindness in our network and the local organizations that are very near and dear to franchisees’ hearts.”

DENVER, CO – PRNewswire

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) announced its commitment to divert half of all of its restaurant waste from landfills by 2020. Since 2015 Chipotle has made significant strides towards reducing the amount of food and packaging waste bound for landfills, increasing its diversion rate from 31 percent that year to 40 percent in 2017. Now the company embarks on achieving a 50 percent diversion rate.
Landfills can often contain materials that could have been recycled or composted for greater environmental benefits, but instead emit greenhouse gases that may contribute significantly to global climate change. By diverting materials that would otherwise be sent to a landfill, Chipotle is doing its part to help lower emissions and be a positive force for change.
“Increasing our waste diversion rate to 50 percent is an ambitious goal, but we feel it’s important to be assertive in our efforts to advance our purpose,” said Caitlin Leibert, head of sustainability at Chipotle. “We remain deeply dedicated to bringing guests great tasting food while upholding Chipotle’s values and commitment to food made with respect for the land and environment.”
To reach this goal, Chipotle and its partners are implementing several best practices, including:
Reduce: Programs such as Chipotle’s Mindful Prep initiative, which trains restaurant staff to minimize food waste during the preparation process, along with targeted initiatives to reduce packaging, have lowered the amount of total waste upfront.
Right Sizing: Chipotle adjusts services and food preparation to its sales per restaurant so less food is going to waste at the end of day.
Recycling: More in-restaurant recycling and compost programs are being implemented for food packaging disposal. With this, Chipotle is working towards a goal of ensuring 100 percent of its restaurants are recycling by 2020.
Waste Audits: Chipotle goes a step further in waste management by using existing data to predict and manage its waste diversion rate. For example, after auditing its restaurants, the company replaced plastic wrap, a non-divertible product, with reusable lids to reduce the amount of material it sends to landfills. Chipotle is constantly assessing opportunities like these to reduce waste and support the environment.
Food Donations: By 2020, Chipotle has pledged that 80 percent of its restaurants will participate in the Harvest Program, which donates leftover food to local community organizations.
Composting: The company is also committed to increasing the availability of composting in its restaurants to 20 percent by 2020.
A full-time Diversions Coordinator will continue to oversee the work Chipotle is undertaking to meet the 50 percent goal. Chipotle also engages trusted partners to ensure proper waste handling at its restaurants. One of these partners, RiverRoad Waste Solutions, works with approximately half of Chipotle restaurants to constantly evaluate and implement programs to maximize waste diversion.
“Chipotle is never satisfied when it comes to minimizing its environmental impact,” said Kris Bunnell, CEO of RiverRoad Waste Solutions. “The company is always looking for new ways to go above and beyond to do what is best for their guests, the community and the environment.”
To learn more about sustainability at Chipotle, please visit Chipotle.com/Sustainability.

FOLSOM, CA – PRNewswire  

The cultural resurgence of men’s grooming is sweeping the nation as the industry is estimated to reach $26 billion by 2020. Leading the way is Hammer & Nails Grooming Shop for Guys, a first-of-its-kind men’s grooming shop that provides hand and foot care, haircuts and shaves in a man cave nirvana. To lead the organization through this hyper growth period, Founder Michael Elliot has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, John Choi, and President & Chief Operating Officer, Aaron Meyers. Choi and Meyers will play a critical role in the brand’s future development as Hammer & Nails enters a new era of growth.
The male grooming industry has become mainstream, with barbering services proving to be the fastest growing sector. As the surge continues, Hammer & Nails has appointed a leadership team to elevate the brand to new heights as it continues to expand its nationwide footprint. As a trailblazer in the space, the brand is perfecting its membership-based model to give men the ultimate man cave nirvana experience while upping their grooming regime.
After seeing success as the second Hammer & Nails franchisee, Choi brings a unique perspective to the corporate team and has first-hand understanding of the daily operations of owning a Hammer & Nails franchise. His experience in the franchise industry began as a Massage Envy regional developer and multi-unit franchisee. Choi brings extensive franchise development knowledge to the C-suite and is no stranger to the health and wellness industry.
Choi’s right-hand man, Aaron Meyers, is taking on the role of President & COO. Meyers’ impressive resume details more than 25 years of experience in operations and brand development. As the former VP of Operations & Innovation at Massage Envy, he led over 1,000 company-owned and franchised locations delivering $1.3 billion of revenue across 49 states. His impressive background also includes an additional 20 years at FedEx Office where he led operations in Europe, Canada, and Latin America.
“Hammer & Nails is entering an exciting era of growth and as I step into this new role, my energies will focus on growing strategically to ensure success for everyone within the brand,” said Choi. “Our new leadership team is strong, qualified, and has the knowledge to grow our company strategically. To continue our development across the nation, we are looking to partner with aspiring and established entrepreneurs who are looking to bring a fun and unique concept to their communities.”
Receiving impressive reception during its first-year franchising, the brand is building on the initial momentum to break through the saturated health and wellness industry with a one-stop grooming shop for every American male. The largest portion of franchise agreements were inked with multi-unit Area Representatives who will further develop their territories with qualified franchise partners to strategically grow the brand.
“With licenses awarded for nearly 300 shops, this is an exciting time to be a part of the Hammer & Nails brand and I’m thrilled to be joining such a strong leadership team,” said Meyers. “This new position will allow me to help franchisees with their day-to-day operations and ensure all locations are running efficiently while delivering a superior service – all in the ultimate man cave nirvana.”
The Hammer & Nails experience is unlike any other in the health and wellness space. The atmosphere is low-lit, with soft ambient lighting throughout the shop. Exterior windows are tinted dark for privacy and the interior is furnished with dark wood and steel, to create a relaxing vibe from the moment you walk in. If you have an appointment (which most guests do), you’re greeted by name and escorted to a luxurious oversized leather chair. You’ll select a complimentary beverage ranging from an ice-cold water to McAllen’s whiskey, all of which is included in the service cost. Every guest has a personal TV, remote and noise-cancelling headphones during his visit.
For more information about the Hammer & Nails franchise opportunity, visit www.hammerandnails-franchising.com.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – 24-7PressRelease

For the third consecutive year, Signarama®, the world’s largest sign franchise, partnered with the International Sign Association (ISA) to present the Signarama Convention, the largest sign, graphics, print, and visual communications convention in the world.

The convention, held recently at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, attracted in excess of 20,000 people, and nearly 600 exhibitors, with more than 300 representatives from franchises in the United States, Canada, and Indonesia.

“The turnout at this year’s convention was remarkable,” said Signarama President A.J. Titus. “Having the opportunity to get our franchisees and vendors together in one room to connect and strategize is one of the many successes of these annual conventions.”

The agenda included a welcoming reception that enabled franchisees to connect with colleagues and vendors sponsoring the event, and multiple exhibitors offered enticing promotional offers. The “Top Golf Mentor Swing” provided franchisees with the opportunity to meet mentors and share time with vendors. The evening concluded with a dinner and networking event that included an awards gala.

Honored at the gala were franchise owners Ric and Karen Anderson of Signarama – Salt Lake City, UT who received the “Mentor of the Year Award,” and franchise owner Bob Chapa of Signarama – Troy, MI who had $7 million in sales in one year, and received the 1,000,000 Star Award. Chapa was also recognized as “MVP of the Year.”

During the convention, Signarama unveiled its new interactive showroom that promotes customer engagement, as they can see not only photos of what their sign products will look like, but they can also touch and feel different substrates that provide a true hands-on experience.

The tradeshow floor consisted of a “Lounge & Learn” area where attendees received information about the latest products and ideas. Additional areas were segmented to allow the attendees to network, conduct business, or simply relax. Roundtable discussions were held in a “speed dating” format to allow franchisees to meet with vendors one-on-one. Franchise owners also took the stage and taught classes throughout the three-day event.

“Exhibitors reported that sales were outstanding,” said Lori Anderson, ISA president and chief executive officer. “This reinforces that this is the only industry event that connects sign and print companies with vendors who can help them capitalize on expansions in the sign, graphics, and visual communications industry.”

The brand conferenced with Lori Anderson and Glen Feder, ISA director, during the show to discuss several topics including the industry regulations. “As a result of our meeting, the ISA and Signarma will take its relationship to the next level in many facets that will directly and indirectly benefit the sign industry as a whole,” said Roger Ewart, vice president of operations for Signarma. “I believe that keeping an eye on regulations, understanding the associated impact and working more closely with the sign research foundation will benefit all involved. We look forward to partnering with the ISA.”

For more information about Signarama and its franchising opportunities, visit www.SignaramaFranchise.com. Signarama is at 2121 Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach, FL. Call toll-free at 800-286-8671.

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, founded and based in Birmingham, has a new chief executive officer. The company last week announced Dan Simpson, its chief innovation officer for almost two years, as its new CEO.

Dan Simpson, Taziki’s new CEO, came to the company almost two years ago as chief innovation officer. (Taziki’s)
Simpson will work closely with Taziki’s founder Keith Richards, who two decades ago put up his house as collateral to build the first Taziki’s near U.S. 280 in Birmingham. The company now has locations in 16 states, and last month opened its 83rd restaurant in West Chester, Ohio. Plans are to have 100 locations open by 2019.
“Keith’s vision for his restaurant is an inspiration to so many. He has created an environment that combines extraordinary food with meaningful human experience,” Simpson said. “He has led the charge to offer fresh, healthy, diverse and affordable food options to the tables of tens of thousands of people for the past 20 years.”
Richards manages the flagship market of Birmingham and will continue to lead Taziki’s culinary research and development program and the HOPE program, which is the company’s charity.
Richards began the HOPE program when he decided to connect Taziki’s to a community need. It began with hiring special-needs adults and teens at his Birmingham-area restaurants, and led to the development of HOPE, or “Herbs Offering Personal Enrichment.” With HOPE, students are hired and taught to plant and cultivate herbs – parsley, oregano, cilantro, basil and rosemary – which are harvested and delivered for use in Taziki’s restaurants.

Simpson and Richards will continue to work with Taziki’s board and staff to clarify the purpose, mission and brand values to guide the company’s next 20 years.
“Dan is working closely with me to carry out my vision for the next 20 years of Taziki’s,” Richards said. “His passion for working to create the new ‘Mediterranean-Coastal’ design for our restaurants has been an integral part of this process.”
The new design for the restaurants includes community tables to create a welcoming environment for conversation, exposed wooden beams in the ceiling, stone and white shiplap-adorned walls, and white and deep blue interior accent pieces. A community board at the back of the restaurants lists local nonprofit events with information about how to participate.
Before joining Taziki’s, Simpson founded and was CEO of ToGo Technologies. Over the past five years, Taziki’s has experienced an increase of more than 60 percent in online and to-go orders.
“Expanding Taziki’s technology capabilities for our customers, including our app offerings, accessibility to ordering online, as well as a new website is a big focus for our team,” Simpson said. “We are working to anticipate consumer trends and seeking innovations that enhance guest experiences.”
Later this year, the company will launch TazRewards, a loyalty program that in-line and online customers can access on the app.