Simultaneously managing to invoke the Ghost of Kurt Cobain, the Atkins Diet, and Austin artist Daniel Johnston, this press release from Baja Fresh Mexican Grill basically announces that one of their franchises isn't going to tear down a locally-beloved piece of art. Congrats, Baja Fresh! You win our Deranged Freakshow Press Release of the Day award!

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill today announced its franchise partner in Austin, Texas will spend his personal money to Save the Frog, a mural that for twenty years has adorned the walls of the building that's housing the newest Baja Fresh. [...]

This art became popular in part because cult icon Kurt Cobain was a fan of Austin artist/musician, Daniel Johnston, and was photographed in a T-shirt bearing a reprint of this "frog" mural.[...]

Baja Fresh prides itself on its no compromises approach when it comes to freshness and flavor [...] The recent introduction of two new menu items designed for one in seven Americans who follow low carb diets is an example of food innovation, which their customers have come to expect. Steak Picado and Chicken Picado each have more than 65 grams of protein and less than 32 grams of carbohydrates, and are part of the recent introduction of the concept's newest "Lifestyle Choices" menu.

(Okay, I don't know what Atkins diet the rest of America is on, but back in my day, we'd have less than 32 grams of carbs in a week, not in one damn Mexican food item.)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 7, 2004

BAJA FRESH SAVES THE FROG

TEXAS ENTREPRENEUR SPENDS PERSONAL DOLLARS

TO SAVE CULTURALLY IMPORTANT AUSTIN ARTWORK

January 7, 2004 -Thousand Oaks, California -Baja Fresh Mexican Grill today announced its franchise partner in Austin,Texas will spend his personal money to Save the Frog, a mural that for twenty years has adorned the walls of the building that's housing the newest Baja Fresh. John Oudt, a Texas entrepreneur and franchisee, is working with the community to preserve this culturally important art. John responded quickly to "do the right thing" when numerous students and citizens scaled the wall yesterday in protest against its demolition.

This art became popular in part because cult icon Kurt Cobain was a fan of Austin artist/musician, Daniel Johnston, and was photographed in a T-shirt bearing a reprint of this "frog" mural. The mural and the photo of Kurt Cobain can be seen by going toJohnston's websitewww.hihowareyou.com. (Photos are also attached.)

News 8 in Austin interviewed local resident, Elizabeth Kirkindall, about the mural: "It cheers me up. It's silly and fun and I think, it's a good touch even on a bad day."

"Our partner, John Oudt, shares the Baja Fresh philosophy - that it's our mission to provide fresh flavorful food and support the lifestyles of our customers," said Greg Dollarhyde, CEO of Baja Fresh. "John's a Texan and understands that this community wants to Save the Frog. He's incurring this expense because it's so important to the people ofAustin."

Baja Fresh prides itself on its no compromises approach when it comes to freshness and flavor. The restaurant uses No freezers; No microwaves, No can openers; No MSG or lard; and only uses boneless, marinated chicken breast, and lean USDA choice steak for their unique burritos, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and ensaladas. For its signature "Baja-style" fish tacos, only fresh fish will do. The self-service salsa bar at each location offers salsas freshly prepared several times daily using top-quality produce.

Baja Fresh, the innovative leader in the Mexican Quick Casual segment, has made unique and flavorful food a passion for more than a decade. The recent introduction of two new menu items designed for one in seven Americans who follow low carb diets is an example of food innovation, which their customers have come to expect. Steak Picado and Chicken Picado each have more than 65 grams of protein and less than 32 grams of carbohydrates, and are part of the recent introduction of the concept's newest "Lifestyle Choices" menu.

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill is the defining standard in high quality, quick-casual, fresh Mexican cuisine. They are the second fastest growing Mexican restaurant concept inAmericawith more than 285 restaurants nationwide. With phone ahead, takeout and dine-in convenience, Baja Fresh is known for its generous portions, broad menu variety, clean surroundings and hand-crafted salsas available at a self service bar.

Contact information:
Maureen O'Connor

Rogers & Cowan

(310) 201-8816