PRETZO MAKES A BIG CHANGE-O
WINS BEST OF SHOW AT THE RCI ANNUAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Il (October 13, 2002) - That’s right, our local confectionery company, Swain Creations here in Solana Beach, has hit the big time with its latest new creation Jer’s “Pretzo Change-O™.” The chocolate recipe won two prestigious awards at the Retail Confectioners International (RCI) 82nd Annual Convention and Industry Exposition in Chicago, Illinois at the Chicago Hilton Towers.

Founder and developer, Jerry Swain introduced his magic pretzel concoction to over 500 chocolatiers. With a wave of his wand, “Pretzo Change-O™” won for Best New Confection. In the blink of an eye, it then took the ultimate prize – Best of Show. Last year the company’s Original IncrediBall™ won the Silver Bowl Award for Best First Time Confection.

The RCI Annual Convention and Industry Exposition hosted over 700 attendees this year. RCI International is a not-for-profit corporation founded in 1917. It is the only trade association in North America dedicated specifically to confectionery manufacturing retailers. The convention was held from June 4-9, and attended by individuals and large corporations from all over the world, entering their sweet confections in 30 different categories. With each entrant allowed just 3 minutes to describe their new products, it didn’t take long for Jer’s “Pretzo Change-O™” to win over the judges.

Swain Creations first product was “Jer’s IncrediBalls,” now known as the “Original IncrediBall™”, was also an award-winner, taking Best First Time Confection in 2001. The Jer’s “Original IncrediBall™” is a mouthwatering peanut butter chocolate ball recipe created by the company’s founder while in college. Swain, the innovative chocolate entrepreneur, was quick to note that “our goal is to create fun and unique delicious chocolate confections.”

Unique it is. “Pretzo Change-O™” is a confection consisting of a crushed pretzel mixed with all natural peanut butter and smothered in chocolate. “The all natural peanut butter makes the significant taste difference,” said Swain. Most companies use less expensive homogenized peanut butter because it is easier to work with. Jer’s “Pretzo Change-O™” is truly a great innovation. This new chocolate pretzel delight combines three great taste sensations – sweet, salty and crunchy. All Jer’s chocolates are original, fun and use the best ingredients available.

To try one of these magical sensations or any other Jer’s delectables, go to the easy to remember web site named www.iwantchocolate.com. Jer’s products can be found at Nordstrom stores throughout San Diego County and Southern California. Starting this fall, you can taste a sampling at several gourmet road shows at Costco locations. See the web site for a schedule or shows and California retailers. The company also offers Chocolate Parties for corporate, charitable and private events. For more information, call Kellie Egan or Jerry Swain at (858) 792-2287. This up and coming company and its peanut butter pretzel combo sensation are here to stick.