Register for free to join our community of investors and share your ideas. You will also get access to streaming quotes, interactive charts, trades, portfolio, live options flow and more tools.
I'm a premium member at IHUB - I recommend everybody upgrade.
IHUB is way better than RB for any number of reasons. The mail feature is really cool, the management/support is best I've seen, technical issues are rare to none, very cool posting features, better posters, better discussion, etc. IMO.
Or, at the very least, upgrade your free membership by confirming your e-mail, and you get 18 posts a day.
Raw
Hey RAW ... Sorry your board didn't work out, guess you'll just have to x-fer all your (and rip's) posts over here.
Where are the fat chicks? The only thing I saw at the other board were two boobs!
We're all swimming, once again, in the same pool! Only the names have changed, (to protect the innocent).
Hey, I hear CXN has a great product: Z-trim. (Way better than the other trims IMO ... hear me Rip? ... just ask, I'll be happy to list the reasons why!)
I wonder if jrf30 will wander over here? Seems like it will be the same old crowd (the only REAL difference, is that Rip and Raw will be listed to only 3 posts per day, initially). Compared to their old ways, that will REALLY bug them.
Today alone, Raw was over 23+ ... amazing.
If the volume of posts outweighed the Quality of posts, then Raw and Rippy would WIN. Fortunately, that's not the case.
In the meantime, back in Mundelein, IL ... CXN stock continues to rise ....
G'night boys.
HEAR WE GO AGAIN! .rawshep is not welcome here .. this is a waste.
we won't be able to have informative posts, as we will be doing nothing but trying to debate their lies with twisted truths.
every other post will be nonsense .Rawazz and sheps don't contribute anything; they are frauds , short bashers that do nothing to contribute . only to crash , they are here to make ill got money by instilling fear;;
can we stop this ? can we create a invitation board only ? somewhere ? any ideas ?
i'm sure the Hud would like to be building there board .
put me on a list , textrim@aol.com
fondly
Brad
Hey guys, welcome here.
Have to admit it is very quiet but then again without bashers around, it usually is.
Hi all , happy to see to see you guys
Brad:) smile on my face and a spring in my step.
OKAY - stk42 is here too. (Too bad someone didn't snatch the CXN site ... can you have more than one? ... because this one doesn't link to the right symbol, now that CRGQ is CXN on the AMEX).
What do you want to bet that Raw, Sheep and Unicorn will be posting here too?
I hope not.
Will be monitoring both for the next while. I have to admit, without detractors, there isn't much to talk about.
When's the NEXT contract coming?! Seems a bit overdue to me...
Leadership Council Honors Greg Halpern of Circle Group - Successful Meeting Follows On Capitol Hill
Monday April 5, 1:17 pm ET
WASHINGTON, April 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The National Small Public Company Leadership Council, a Washington, D.C. based group, that seeks to educate and inform the White House, U.S. Congress and federal agencies about issues impacting the nation's small publicly-traded companies, held its Annual Legislative and Regulatory Conference on April 1st at the Willard Inter- Continental Hotel with small business leaders and key members of congress.
Greg Halpern, Chief Executive Officer of Circle Group Holdings (Amex: CXN - News) was honored by the Leadership Council during a luncheon and presented the small public company "CEO of the Year" award by Hector Barreto, Administrator of the Small Business Administration in Washington, D.C. Among the issues discussed were capital formation, the Sarbanes-Oxley law and its impact on small public companies, SEC rules, Tax Reform measures and Government support for small enterprise companies.
"I was thrilled and greatly encouraged by the receptivity to my suggestions by several of our leaders on Capitol Hill," said Mr. Halpern. "The future now holds real opportunity for hearings on key topics, studies to determine the cost-benefit analysis of Sarbanes-Oxley on small public companies, unification of the various small business groups to create solidarity on our quest to improve conditions for our sector, and on-going support for our effort from President Bush, who has an extensive history dating back to his days as the Texas Governor backing many initiatives for the small business community."
About The National Small Public Company Leadership Council
The National Small Public Company Leadership Council is a Washington, D.C. based group seeking to educate the White House, U.S. Congress and federal agencies about the economic contribution of small publicly held companies.
Hi all. I just joined I-Hub tonight and this is a great board. I plan on posting more and I agree...it is time to get valued shareholders over here from RB and discuss some of the GREAT things CXN is doing. Will post more later...
ssparsons
OUTSTANDING NEWS. A new listing and a new symbol (CNX) gives this company an ouststanding opportunity to reach some very lofty goals. It will be nice to be rid of all of the sesame street urchkins that have tried to stunt the growth for their negative motives. Good Luck to all.
Buddyholly.
Circle Group applies to the AMEX
(from the RB board)
http://knobias.10kwizard.com/filing.php?repo=tenk&ipage=2699355&doc=1&total=&back=1&...
Away we go. Just hope CRGQ puts out a PR on it so EVERYONE will know. GREAT NEWS!!!!
thanks rusty. Now if we can move John, Steve, Stk, Genko, etc over here, we can can have some fruitful dicussions with accurate data. Spread the word good buddy. Take care and Good Luck to all.
Buddyholly
Judge a man by his questions rather than by his answers!
VOLTAIRE
Buddyholly
I know this is the better board. It is a joke these days with all the trash there now.
Rusty; this is the better board to discuss all of the aspects of CRGQ unlike the RB playground. Besides, once Greg gets CRGQ off of the OTC and on to AMEX or Naz, things will get better and better. Good Luck to All.
Buddyholly(Wildthing)
Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe!
VOLTAIRE
Interesting spike at the end of the day...
...will it hold on Monday?
http://finance.yahoo.com/q/bc?s=CRGQ.OB&t=1d&l=on&z=m&q=l&c=
It will be interesting to see if we can...
...buy Z-Trim for $19.95 on a late night program.
I sure hope we see the new spokeswoman pumping iron next to Chuck Norris and Christie Brinkley.
Great Conference call today. The building blocks are being strategically placed. Good Luck to All
Buddy (maybe baby)
news out
Press Release Source: Circle Group Holdings, Inc.
Circle Group Holdings Signs Deal With National Express and BCI 7 Marketing For The Domestic and International Marketing and Fulfillment of Z-Trim
Thursday March 4, 9:22 am ET
Company to Capitalize on Growing Demand for Zero Calorie Fat Replacement Product Through Global Marketing Program
MUNDELEIN, Ill., March 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CRGQ - News) today announced that it has signed a deal with National Express, Inc. and BCI 7 Marketing, leading consumer marketing companies, for the promotion, marketing, and fulfillment of FiberGel Technologies' Z-Trim products to the public through direct response television marketing and retail channels. FiberGel is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Circle Group Holdings.
ADVERTISEMENT
The multi-channeled domestic and international Z-Trim campaign will include direct response television to inform the public about the benefits of using Z-Trim in their daily diet, demonstrate how easy it is to use when preparing meals, and allow them to purchase Consumer Packs, containing Z-Trim for home use and the "Cooking With Z-Trim" instructional DVD and cookbook. Without making lifestyle modifications or having to increase exercise, Z-Trim will allow consumers to easily reduce calories and lose weight at home without changing taste or texture in the foods they consume.
National Express and BCI 7 Marketing will work together to identify marketing and distribution channels that will help FiberGel capitalize on the current dramatic rise in obesity and weight-health issues. For over 22 years, National Express has been one of the leading marketing and promotion companies in the direct response business, helping to market highly recognizable products such as Liquid Lens, Fire Shine Tire Coating, Nathan's Grill, BinoCam Binocular and Camera Combination, Ding King Twist a Dent, GS-27 Scratch Remover, Design-a-Nail, and many others.
BCI 7 Marketing has also had great success, in conjunction with its strategic partners, in helping to market other products such as: Total Gym, Dr. Millner's Clean Between Machine, Minute White Tooth Whitening System, Abflex II, AB Energizer, Celebrity Weight Loss Patch, Body Blade, Gazelle Freestyle, Flying Lure, Swing Magic, Smoke Away, and Diet ZX. BCI has helped sell millions of these products each year, and several of their products have been selling for seven to ten years.
"Our relationship with Circle Group is an extraordinary strategic alliance which will greatly impact the sales and exposure of their subsidiary FiberGel Technologies' Z-Trim products," said BCI CEO Patrick Cioffi Jr. "Within the next six months, every household in America and many more around the globe will know about Z-Trim and the health benefits it can provide them with. We will help FiberGel Technologies make Z-Trim products available to anyone who wants to benefit from their use, both domestically and internationally."
"The relationship between BCI, National Express and our company is very powerful. Through their well established channels, we now have the opportunity to bring Z-Trim and its amazing benefits to the world in less than a year," said Greg Halpern, Circle Group's CEO. "Z-Trim may be the only food ingredient in the market today that has home consumer and industry applications and can fight obesity. By replacing up to half the fat in food with Z-Trim, people will be able to lose weight or prevent weight gain, while adding healthy fiber to their diets," added Halpern. "If each person used Z-Trim to reduce their calorie intake by a modest one hundred calories a day, they would be able to lose ten pounds a year with no other change in their lifestyle. Imagine how much weight could be lost in total, nationwide or worldwide, simply by people using Z-Trim in the foods that they already eat."
Z-Trim is a revolutionary all-natural, zero calorie fat replacement invented at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). It reduces calories and increases healthy insoluble fiber in a variety of products, including cheese, baked goods, processed meats, dressings, confectionery and a wide range of other prepared foods. It has been well received by consumers as well as a number of major domestic and foreign food manufacturers as a vital mainstream ingredient for making healthier foods with fewer calories that don't sacrifice taste or texture.
The Company has scheduled an analyst call to discuss its 2003 full-year and fourth quarter results of operations for today at 4:10 p.m. eastern time. Mr. Halpern will host the call. The call in number is 1-800-624-6265 and the pass code is 65146.
About FiberGel Technologies
FiberGel owns the worldwide rights to Z-Trim for all fields of use. Invented over many years by Outstanding Senior Research Scientist Dr. George Inglett ( http://www.thesoydailyclub.com/Research/ars2132002.asp ) at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Z-Trim is a patented, zero calorie, multi-functional, fiber food ingredient from corn that lowers calories and fat in most foods without affecting taste or texture. For more information about FiberGel Technologies, visit http://ztrim.com/ .
About Circle Group Holdings, Inc.
Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CRGQ - News; www.crgq.com/ ), is a pioneer of emerging technology companies. The Company provides small business infrastructure, funding and substantial intellectual capital to bring important and timely life-changing technologies to market through all early phases of the commercialization process. All Company press releases are available at www.crgq.com/HTML/breakingNews.html .
About National Express, Inc.
National Express, Inc. is a Connecticut-based company that has been in business for over 22 years specializing in direct marketing to the consumer. It has helped to market a long list of successful products to the public.
About BCI 7 Marketing, Inc.
BCI 7 Marketing, Inc. is an established company having significant experience with many of the leading domestic and international marketing companies in the world. BCI markets products and services with hundreds of distributors domestically and in over 100 countries worldwide. Having been involved with some of the top-selling direct response commercials and infomercials, BCI has extensive relationships with the most established and successful Direct Response TV and retail companies in the world. In addition to being a major distributor of products, worldwide, they work with other distributors on a wholesale basis.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements made in this news release that relate to future plans, events or performances are forward-looking statements. Any statement containing words such as "believes", "anticipates", "plans" or "expects" and other statements which are not historical facts contained in this release are forward-looking, and these statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations. Consequently, actual results could differ materially from the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements. Reference is made to the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of such risks and uncertainties.
This some more exciting news.
FiberGel Technologies Announces That Eastern Illinois University's Consumer Science Department Will Conduct On-Going Z-Trim Products Research
Wednesday February 25, 10:00 am ET
MUNDELEIN, Ill., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- FiberGel Technologies, a subsidiary of Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CRGQ - News) reported today that the Family and Consumer Sciences Department of Eastern Illinois University will conduct ongoing food studies to measure consumer acceptance of Z-Trim for its sensory characteristics and as a fat substitute in various formulations.
"The ongoing program will provide positive clinical data for Z-Trim in many additional product applications for home use as well as for major food company brands," said Greg Halpern, Chief Executive Officer of Circle Group Holdings. "We believe these studies will play an important role in validating the demand for Z-Trim, and will play an important role as we accelerate our marketing activities and relationships with leading food companies. In addition to Z-Trim's ability to lower calories without changing taste or texture, we are confident this data will continue to show that Z-Trim is far superior to other products which replace or substitute fat."
Z-Trim is a revolutionary all-natural, zero calorie fat replacement invented at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). It reduces calories and increases healthy insoluble fiber in a variety of products, including cheese, baked goods, processed meats, dressings, confectionery and a wide range of other prepared foods. Z-Trim has been well received by consumers as well as a number of major domestic and foreign food manufacturers as a vital mainstream ingredient for making healthier foods with fewer calories that don't sacrifice taste or texture. Z-Trim Starter and Deluxe starter packs, and Z-Trim refills are available for sale at http://ztrim.com . The Starter Packs contain Z-Trim, an instructional Z-Trim DVD and a Z-Trim cookbook.
About FiberGel Technologies
FiberGel owns the worldwide rights to Z-Trim for all fields of use. Invented over many years by Outstanding Senior Research Scientist Dr. George Inglett ( http://www.thesoydailyclub.com/Research/ars2132002.asp ) at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Z-Trim is a patented, zero calorie, multi-functional, fiber food ingredient from corn that lowers calories and fat in most foods without affecting taste or texture. For more information about FiberGel Technologies, visit http://ztrim.com .
About Circle Group Holdings, Inc.
Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CRGQ - News) ( www.crgq.com ), is a pioneer of emerging technology companies. The Company provides small business infrastructure, funding and substantial intellectual capital to bring important and timely life-changing technologies to market through all early phases of the commercialization process. All Company press releases are available at www.crgq.com/HTML/breakingNews.html .
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements made in this news release that relate to future plans, events or performances are forward-looking statements. Any statement containing words such as "believes" "anticipates" "plans" or "expects" and other statements which are not historical facts contained in this release are forward-looking, and these statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations. Consequently, actual results could differ materially from the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements. Reference is made to the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of such risks and uncertainties.
Contact: Greg Halpern
Voice: 847-549-6002
Email: greg@crgq.com
Wallstreet Reporter interview...
http://www.crgq.com/Html/Investor_Relations/webcasts/WallStreetReporter.html
2b, tastes like chicken. HA! Jest kidd'n. eom
LOL, 2bStealthy, I will enjoy this "special" chocolate cookie for my breakfast tomorrow : )
More later...
: ) Ulli
PS.:
Did you see QTIG/STEH's PR today ? DarkNoise....
Most interesting....
Ulrike, Hi!
I will be interested in your thoughts as to the taste.
Hi 2B Stealthy: Just received my investors information package (with the test-cookie) today....
I really think investing into Circle Group Holdings Inc is a splendid opportunity.
Will try to buy a few shares as soon as I can.
Ulli
Sam,
Thanks for that posting.
I had not seen it.
Circle Group Holdings CEO Greg Halpern to Receive The National Small Public Company Leadership Award
PR Newswire - February 03, 2004 09:23
MUNDELEIN, Ill., Feb 03, 2004 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via Comtex/ -- The National Small Public Company Leadership Council announced today that it has awarded its Small Public Company Award for Leadership in Industry to Greg Halpern, CEO of Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CRGQ)(www.crgq.com).
The award will be presented in Washington D.C. in April, by Congressman Rick Renzi (R - Arizona), after a meeting with key Members of Congress and a private meeting at The White House. When asked to comment on the award, Mr. Halpern said, "I will accept the award as a symbol of the tremendous effort put forth by all my fellow men and women small business professionals that make up the majority of the work force, taxable revenue and innovation in America. Thanks to these hard working Americans, we all have a future that's worth working towards. It is great to see our leadership in America finally recognizing the contributions that small businesses make, and creating legislation that will allow them to flourish in the future."
About The National Small Public Company Leadership Council
The National Small Public Company Leadership Council is a Washington, D.C. based group seeking to educate the White House, U.S. Congress and Federal Agencies about the economic contribution of small publicly held companies.
About Circle Group Holdings, Inc.
Circle Group is a pioneer of emerging technology companies. The Company provides small business infrastructure, funding and substantial intellectual capital to bring important and timely life-changing technologies to market through all early phases of the commercialization process. Circle Group's subsidiary, FiberGel Technologies, Inc. is the maker of Z-Trim. Z-Trim is a patented, zero calorie, multi-functional, fiber food ingredient from corn that lowers calories and fat in most foods without affecting taste or texture. For more information about FiberGel Technologies, visit http://ztrim.com. All Company press releases are available at www.crgq.com/HTML/breakingNews.html.
About ASBA
Advanced Small Business Alliance (ASBA) is a 501(c)6 organization (http://www.advancedsmallbusiness.org) created for the purpose of supporting small business entrepreneurship in America. Small businesses are the primary creators of new technology, products and services that create jobs and drive our economy. ASBA provides organized representation in industry and government and seeks better conditions for all small business in the areas of capital formation, insurance, and taxation. The organization is managed by Greg Halpern who has testified before congress on the need to improve the conditions for the 21 million small business professionals who are the reason why America is the most prosperous nation on earth. Mr. Halpern's testimony is available at http://www.advancedsmallbusiness.org/testofGreg.html and some of his reform efforts can be seen at http://www.parkandhalpern.com Mr. Halpern has also been instrumental in policy changes through participation at the SEC's Small Business Capital Formation Conference, abolition of the BBX, Sarbanes-Oxley implementation issues affecting small business, and the enactment of Regulation SHO (Naked Short Sellers) Rule.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements made in this news release that relate to future plans, events or performances are forward-looking statements. Any statement containing words such as "believes" "anticipates" "plans" or "expects" and other statements which are not historical facts contained in this release are forward-looking, and these statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations. Consequently, actual results could differ materially from the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements. Reference is made to the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of such risks and uncertainties.
SOURCE Circle Group Holdings, Inc.
Steve Cohen of Circle Group Holdings, Inc., +1-847-549-6002
http://www.prnewswire.com
Copyright (C) 2004 PR Newswire. All rights reserved.
Z-Trim - fat substitute made from corn
http://www.ztrim.com/articles/foodyoucaneat_012104.html
'Fake fat' developed in Peoria hits market
http://www.ztrim.com/articles/pjstar_blui51an004.html
FiberGel Technologies, Inc. Reports on the Benefits and Scientific Basis Of Z-Trim
http://www.crgq.com/press/02_02_2004.html
United States Patent 4,996,063
Inglett
February 26, 1991
Method for making a soluble dietary fiber composition from oats
Abstract
Water-soluble dietary fiber compositions can be prepared by treatment of oat-milled products with .alpha.-amylases. The dietary fiber compositions are colorless and devoid of inherent undesirable flavors and are, therefore, uniquely suitable for use in a variety of foods.
Inventors:
Inglett; George F. (Peoria, IL)
Assignee:
The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of (Washington, DC)
Appl. No.:
373978
Filed:
June 30, 1989
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm...
United States Patent 5,082,673
Inglett
* January 21, 1992
Method of making soluble dietary fiber compositions from cereals
Abstract
Soluble dietary fiber-and-maltodextrin-containing products can be prepared by hydrolyzing a cereal flour or a blend of cereal flour and starch with an .alpha.-amylase and recovering the soluble fraction. The recovered material comprises .beta.-glucans and/or pentosans as the dietary fiber. These compositions are colorless and devoid of inherent undesirable flavors and are, therefore, uniquely suitable for use in a variety of foods.
Inventors:
Inglett; George E. (Peoria, IL)
Assignee:
The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of (Washington, DC)
United States Patent 5,225,219
Inglett
July 6, 1993
Amylodextrin compositions and method therefor
Abstract
Amylodextrin compositions are produced from starch hydrolysates having a dextrose equivalent (DE) less than 10 or from milled substrates such as cereals, oilseeds, and vegetable fibers. The compositions give aqueous gels with unexpectedly increased strengths and improved fat-sparing characteristics, including more desirable flavor and texture qualities. The amylodextrin compositions are segregated from hydrolyzed aqueous cereal flour or starch hydrolysate solutions, for example, by precipitation with the proper amount of a water-miscible organic solvent, such as ethanol, acetone, or 2-propanol.
Inventors:
Inglett; George E. (Peoria, IL)
Assignee:
The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of (Washington, DC)
Appl. No.:
815996
Filed:
January 2, 1992
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm...
United States Patent 5,266,467
Inglett
November 30, 1993
Enzymatic production of maltohexaose-rich compositions
Abstract
Malto-oligosaccharide compositions which contain up to about 40% maltohexaose by weight are produced from starchy substrates and maltodextrins by a simple, one-step hydrolysis with certain thermostable .alpha.-amylase from Bacillus stearothermophilus. This process is particularly useful in the production of novel compositions with properties that will lead to new applications in both food and nonfood industries.
Inventors:
Inglett; George E. (Peoria, IL)
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of (Washington, DC)
Appl. No.:
649348
Filed:
February 1, 1991
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm...
United States Patent 5,766,662
Inglett
June 16, 1998
Dietary fiber gels for calorie reduced foods and method for preparing the same
Abstract
Gel substances are prepared from dietary fiber substrates by chemically and physically treating the substrates in a multistage process to substantially complete disintegrate their morphological cellular structures. These gels are characterized by high viscosities and high hydration capacities and can be readily dried and reconstituted. They find utility in a variety of food and non-food compositions, particularly as reduced-calorie fat and/or flour substitutes.
Inventors:
Inglett; George E. (Peoria, IL)
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of (Washington, DC)
Appl. No.:
563834
Filed:
November 28, 1995
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm...
United States Patent 6,060,519
Inglett
May 9, 2000
Soluble hydrocolloid food additives and method of making
Abstract
Hydrocolloidal compositions recovered from the liquid fraction obtained by subjecting oat or barley substrates to a heat-shearing treatment are rich in soluble fiber, principally .beta.-glucan, and are substantially free of insoluble fiber particles. Dispersions of these compositions are smooth in texture and are useful as texturizers and nutritional substitutes for dairy products in food compositions.
Inventors:
Inglett; George E. (Peoria, IL)
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of (Washington, DC)
Appl. No.:
130788
Filed:
August 7, 1998
http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=/netahtml/search-adv.htm....
NASD Tightens Short Selling/Delivery Rule
http://www.rgm.com/articles/DJwire7.html
http://www.sec.gov/rules/proposed/34-48709.pdf
video of Greg...
http://showroom.multivisioninc.com/sharePlay.do
Circle Group at CEOcast...
http://www.ceocast.com
SPECIAL SITUATIONS:
Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: CRGQ) $6.10
We have been saying for weeks that functional foods have been one of the hottest investment areas, so it is comes as little surprise that shares of Circle Group Holdings, Inc. have been on a tear recently. The company focuses on acquiring life changing technologies and assisting its portfolio of companies in their efforts to bring these products to the marketplace. It appears to have found a big winner in Fiber Gel Technologies, its subsidiary that owns the worldwide rights to Z-Trim.
What is Z-Trim and why is there so much excitement surrounding it? Z-Trim is a natural, zero calorie fat replacement developed by USDA Agricultural Research Service. The best part is it has no taste. In a series of traditional field and lab focus groups conducted late last year, respondents who sampled FiberGel's Z-Trim commercial fat substitute could detect no differences in taste between foods containing the company's low fat product and high fat versions of the same items. These taste studies included cream cheese, salad dressings, chili, chocolate cake and cookies. The ingredient, however, actually lowers calories and fat in cheese, baked goods, processed meats, dressings, confectionery products and a wide range of other prepared foods without affecting taste or texture. It can also carry other functional food ingredients such as Omega-3 fatty acid, phytosterol, beta glucan and beta carotene as an emulsion to decrease fat and calories and increase insoluble fiber in a va!
riety of products.
While there are many promising ingredients available today, few garner the attention of Nestle, which recently entered into a long-term agreement where the company will supply the Swiss food giant with Z-Trim. This is not its first commercial venture. Recently, the company launched a new line of gourmet cookies, in conjunction with The Cookie Garden, a Des Plaines, Illinois gourmet cookie producer. The cookies have 25% less calories from fat and contain significant levels of fiber. CRGQ has also increased its awareness among consumers with an appearance at HealthExpo, currently going on at the Florida State Fair.
The company also has ambitious plans overseas. Recently, it entered into an agreement with Zurich-based DKSH Group to bring the Z-Trim functional fat replacement products to European and Asian markets. DKSH operates in more than 35 countries and is the leading marketing, services and distribution provider in Asia and a major force in Europe serving the commercial food industries. This agreement provides FiberGel Technologies with a strong global marketing partner with extensive accomplishments in marketing and distribution of functional foods and nutritional supplements gained from more than 100 years experience in these industries.
The company, which was founded in 1994, owns other interests as well, although none that have demonstrated the same potential to date as Z-Trim. The company recently announced the establishment of Z-Amaize Technologies, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, to market a new line of Z-Bind industrial adhesive products for the plywood manufacturing industry. The Z-Bind products represent an affordable alternative to plywood manufacturers seeking superior and environmentally friendlier adhesives and are an outgrowth of its research for Z-Trim functional fat substitutes.
CRGQ?s revenues of $530,872 for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2003 represented an increase of 12% over the nine-month period results of $465,443 in 2002. Circle Group reported a net loss of $1.3 million for the nine-months ended September 30, or $0.05 per share. As of September 30th, the company had cash and cash equivalents of nearly $1.7 million.
The stock has generated eye-catching gains. Last year, shares surged from just 3 cents at the beginning of the year, to end the year at $2.08, good for a return of 68 times on an investment. Already this year, the stock has gained 193%. Last week, the stock jumped 37% on record volume. Despite these outsized gains, the company still has a market capitalization of just $168 million, based upon the number of shares outstanding as of its last quarterly filing. Although the company?s valuation has increased dramatically, investors who stay with strong stocks often outperform the market, as there are usually reasons for the big rise. The company currently qualifies for a listing on the AMEX, which could further increase investor interest. With functional foods being one of the hottest areas for growth, a recently announced deal with Nestle and growing interest in Z-Trim, Circle Group shares could head much higher.
Nestlé to change fat for insoluble fibre
19/01/2004
Details of the agreement were not disclosed by the companies, but they said that the deal is looked at on ‘a long term basis.’
Designed to decrease fat and calories and increase healthy insoluble fibre in a variety of products - including cheese, baked goods, meat products, dressings and confectionery - Z-Trim is a patented corn-based ingredient originally developed at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The ingredient was launched in Europe in December by Swiss marketing group DKSH, which said it would target major food makers, currently under pressure to increase the nutritional value of their products and reduce fat, in response to the global obesity epidemic.
Nestlé CEO Peter Brabeck has repeatedly stated that the company is hoping to win a bigger slice of the fast growing market for nutritional products, and that it will invest heavily in new product development and brand support in the next few years. There have so far been but a few signs of this drive towards the functional food market.
The DKSH contract is FiberGel's first major entry into the overseas food industry. The Zurich-based firm, which operates in more than 35 countries, will also roll out the product to Asian markets. The market for fat replacement ingredients is growing rapidly and is expected to exceed $10 billion in the next five years.
Fiber Gel recently announced that it would launch Z-Trim to the US consumer market, selling it over the Internet and by phone.
http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/news-NG.asp?id=49168#
Area firm's fat-free cookies are gobbled up by Nestle
By Jordan Sokol Daily Herald Staff Writer
Posted 1/16/04
Consumers mouths are watering for a new line of gourmet cookies made with Z-Trim, an all-natural fat replacement with no calories.
Within the last week, Mundelein-based FiberGel Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of Circle Groups Holdings Inc., has launched an oatmeal and chocolate chip cookie with The Cookie Garden, the Des Plaines gourmet cookie producer.
Apparently, Nestle has noticed. The mammoth food company announced Thursday that it has signed an agreement with FiberGel to buy Z-Trim on a long-term basis. Nestle and Circle Group would not disclose details.
That catapulted Circle Group's stock up 32 percent, or 83 cents, to close at $3.42 on the Over the Counter Bulletin Board market, just shy of its 52-week high of $3.55.
"It's great to get recognition from the consumers and now from a big food company," said Greg Halpern, CEO of Circle Group.
Z-Trim is made by processing cornhusks so that when mixed with water they form a calorie-free gel that can be substituted for fat in foods. The process has generated significant interest.
"In the past year, Z-Trim has become more known about by weight conscious consumers looking for healthier foods which don't sacrifice delicious taste," Halpern said.
The company began offering Z-Trim to consumers for home cooking this past week. The Z-Trim diet program includes a cook book and a four-ounce supply to help consumers create healthier, fiber-enriched meals at home that can be purchased for $19.95 at www.ztrim.com, he said.
Meanwhile at the Cookie Garden, the response to chocolate chip cookies was so overwhelming that President Dave Anfuso said he couldn't pass up the additional line of oatmeal cookies.
"If you love oatmeal cookies, these are about as good as it gets, and like the chocolate chip cookies, they will be healthier and more filling than other gourmet cookies," Anfuso said.
Halpern expects that more food companies will follow in the footsteps of Nestle and Cookie Garden.
Convincing the big food companies of Z-Trim's potential is crucial because the commercial market is bigger than the consumer market, said Sid Doolittle, the founding partner of McMillan/Doolittle, a Chicago retail consulting firm.
"There is such a strong market right now for reducing calorie content," Doolittle said. "The hold-up for these products has been that they usually don't enhance the taste of the finished product."
Halpern is fully aware that food marketers have met failure in their search for the perfect fat substitute.
In 1998, Proctor and Gamble introduced a food additive called Olestra that replaced fat mainly in snack foods. Olestra was not only a limited, unnatural product with unwanted side effects, but it was plagued by bad timing, Halpern said.
"The fat substitute market was not as good several years ago as it is now," Halpern said. "Being ahead of your time is the kiss of death in emerging technology."
Z-Trim should benefit from its non-chemical makeup and the growing concern about rising obesity rates, Doolittle said.
Halpern is confident his product is the best to hit the market and the timing is perfect.
"Hopefully, this is only the beginning," he said. "We are focused on tackling obesity and are confident that we are one of the key solution makers."
http://www.dailyherald.com/search/main_story.asp?intid=3800269
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Z-trim for inclusion in Nestle products
16/01/2004
Details of the agreement were not disclosed by the companies, but they said that the deal is looked at on ‘a a long term basis.’
Designed to decrease fat and calories and increase healthy insoluble fiber in a variety of products - including cheese, baked goods, meat products, dressings, confectionery - Z-Trim is a patented corn-based ingredient originally developed at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The functional food ingredient fell under the umbrella of Circle Group when the company acquired Fiber Gel Technologies back in September 2002.
The company said in early January that it will launch its novel fat replacer to the consumer market at the forthcoming exhibition - the HealthExpo exhibit at Florida State Fair from January 16 - February 1. In addition, the US firm said it is due to soon start selling Z-Trim over the Internet and by phone.
Last year Fiber Gel Technologies set up a partnership with Hyacinth Resources to expand distribution of its corn-based ingredient product in the Asian marketplace.
"Hyacinth is in the unique position of having access to substantial prime business commerce relationships in Indonesia," said, at the time, Gregory J. Halpern, Fiber Gel's CEO. "This largely untapped market paves the way for Z-Trim manufacturing opportunities in Indonesia and distribution to the Asian Market."
http://www.confectionerynews.com/news/news-NG.asp?id=49137#
Z-trim for inclusion in Nestle products
16/01/2004
Details of the agreement were not disclosed by the companies, but they said that the deal is looked at on ‘a a long term basis.’
Designed to decrease fat and calories and increase healthy insoluble fiber in a variety of products - including cheese, baked goods, meat products, dressings, confectionery - Z-Trim is a patented corn-based ingredient originally developed at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The functional food ingredient fell under the umbrella of Circle Group when the company acquired Fiber Gel Technologies back in September 2002.
The company said in early January that it will launch its novel fat replacer to the consumer market at the forthcoming exhibition - the HealthExpo exhibit at Florida State Fair from January 16 - February 1. In addition, the US firm said it is due to soon start selling Z-Trim over the Internet and by phone.
Last year Fiber Gel Technologies set up a partnership with Hyacinth Resources to expand distribution of its corn-based ingredient product in the Asian marketplace.
"Hyacinth is in the unique position of having access to substantial prime business commerce relationships in Indonesia," said, at the time, Gregory J. Halpern, Fiber Gel's CEO. "This largely untapped market paves the way for Z-Trim manufacturing opportunities in Indonesia and distribution to the Asian Market."
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http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/news-NG.asp?id=49137#
Circle Group thinks big
By Jordan Sokol Daily Herald Staff Writer
Posted 1/18/04
Two things are apparent in today's world: people are getting heavier and terrorism frightens us more.
Greg Halpern, the chief executive of Mundelein-based venture capital firm Circle Group Holdings Inc., is worried that quality of life suffers as a result. And he's built his business around providing funding to bring timely and life-changing technologies to market to address such problems.
While his company still is tiny, with a third-quarter loss of $709,104 on revenue of $134,051, Halpern points out that such losses are typical of an emerging technology firm developing new products.
"We are really working to the future," Halpern said. "Otherwise, we would just be another mainstream business."
Halpern says Circle Group is poised to make a difference in people's lives with products like a fat substitute that it launched last week.
"New technology needs a convergence of interests to solve a global problem," the 45-year-old Halpern said. "Health and public safety are two of those problems that are creating so much pain and suffering that a solution is absolutely necessary."
A lifelong entrepreneur, Halpern brings invaluable experience in computer programming and emerging technologies to Circle Group.
In the 1980s, Halpern developed, patented and successfully marketed a technology as an electronic anesthesia for the dental community.
Over the years, he became focused on bigger, universal problems, precisely 186 of which he has made into a list.
Personal safety joined public safety on the list. Almost three years ago, Halpern invented and began teaching Braveway, a unique brand of self-defense. Community members are taught Braveway at Circle Group's full-sized gym by its staff, several of whom, including Halpern, are judo experts.
Halpern's agenda may seem more in sync with that of a humanitarian or a social activist than a CEO. Rising health care costs and increasingly poor eating habits worry Halpern because they hurt people's ability to enjoy life and live longer.
"Foods have been made to break through people's natural resistance to gorging themselves," he said. "This is a winning product to sell fatty products but a losing formula for the health of the world."
But problems also offer business opportunities.
"There are 14,000 developed technologies that are fully researched and patented at the top 21 universities and government, but 99.9 percent of them do not find a commercialization partner," Halpern said. "That's where we come in. We help build the nuts and bolts of small business infrastructure that may be challenging to the entrepreneur."
Halpern took a crucial step when he made a deal in 2001 with UTEK Corp., an innovative business that assists public companies in acquiring breakthrough technologies from universities and federal research laboratories.
Halpern's strategic alliance with UTEK has helped Circle Group acquire major breakthrough technologies from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Energy.
"Greg is unusual in that he has a higher mission with his ventures," said Cliff Gross, CEO of UTEK. "A lot of companies work with UTEK to improve their product line, but Greg is addressing a major health problem here."
Gross was referring to Circle Group's FiberGel Technologies subsidiary and its Z-Trim product, an all-natural fat replacement developed at the USDA that can lower calories by up to 50 percent without affecting taste or texture. In August 2002, Circle Group acquired FiberGel Technologies from UTEK, and now owns the worldwide license for Z-Trim.
Gross sensed that Z-Trim was a wonderful product when he was given a taste test by the scientist and inventor, George Inglett, who was named Outstanding Senior Research Scientist in 2001 by the USDA.
"Z-Trim just makes sense and is really needed by the market place," Gross said.
Circle Group also has acquired Mini-Raman Lidar and ThraxVac from the Department of Energy, technologies that detect and destroy biotoxins such as anthrax.
Circle Group's acquisitions and hopes for Z-Trim helped it close 2003 atop the Bloomberg News' Illinois Index, which measures the performance of companies with a minimum market capital of $30 million.
"It is no secret that our stock went up because we began to tell our story," Halpern said.
No analysts follow the company, which is traded on the over-the-counter market, and the stock is extremely volatile.
After an initial public offering at about 75 cents a share on June 6, 2002, the stock was trading at under 5 cents by last January. It recorded a 6,833 percent gain to close the year at $2.08 to top Bloomberg's list.
"All validation is relevant, but a good entrepreneur is always forging ahead," Halpern said.
The stock jumped more last week after FiberGel began marketing Z-Trim, jumping $1.03 Friday to close at $4.45.
But the real story is Circle Group's unusual approach to venture capital investment.
"I am not a fan of the traditional venture capital model," Halpern said. "It calls for the control over the entrepreneur and guts his or her passion."
Halperns decision to enter the public market in 2002 has also afforded Circle Group access to capital to make acquisitions such as FiberGel.
The ability to use its stock as equity also has helped Circle Group shift from a minority investor in ventures to fully owning the technologies.
Such decisions and business strategies have impressed Chuck Reaves, the founder and president of Twenty-One Associates, an Atlanta-based sales training and consulting company, who met Halpern at a CEO summit.
"Greg is the corporate renaissance man," Reeves said. "Typically a CEO of a tech company is a whiz in technology, sales, or finance. Greg can do them all."
Much like the man who runs the show, the Circle Group headquarters is multifaceted. In-house photo, video, and sound studios enhance the company's ability to respond quickly to demands. Workout facilities, 14-foot ceilings and the open environment breeds creativity, Halpern said.
"This is a unique and pleasurable environment," Halpern said. "There really is not much room for stress to take over."
Halpern said he believes he has what may be the best infrastructure to foster a small business available.
"We can insert a business in here … and give it huge commercialization in a year … to get it to the next level," he said.
http://www.dailyherald.com/search/main_story.asp?intid=38004287
On Bloomberg Illinois Index on Friday (16Jan04), CRGQ was the leading gainer.
http://quote.bloomberg.com/apps/data?pid=ri_movers&Ticker=BILX
WOW! Missed it by "that" much. eom
If this gets into the mainstream food supply if will be worth a fortune.
Greg has done a great job! Anybody tried the new cookies?
FiberGel Technologies Signs Agreement With Nestle To Supply Z-Trim Zero Calorie Fat Substitute
Thursday January 15, 9:05 am ET
MUNDELEIN, Ill., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CRGQ - News) announced today that FiberGel Technologies, Inc., its subsidiary, has signed an agreement with Nestle to supply its Z-Trim zero calorie fat substitute on a long term basis. In comparison tests between products made with and without Z-Trim, tasters could not tell the difference between the products containing Z-Trim and their full-fat counterparts.
About Fiber Gel Technologies
Fiber Gel owns the worldwide rights to Z-Trim for all fields of use. Invented at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Z-Trim is a patented, zero calorie, multi-functional, fiber food ingredient that lowers calories and fat in cheese, baked goods, processed meats, dressings, confectionery products and a wide range of other prepared foods without affecting taste or texture. Well received by a number of major domestic and foreign food manufacturers, Z-Trim is a vital mainstream component for making healthier foods that respond to the global obesity epidemic and associated health issues. For more information about FiberGel Technologies, visit http://ztrim.com.
About Circle Group Holdings, Inc.
Circle Group Holdings, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CRGQ; www.crgq.com), is a pioneer of emerging technology companies. The Company provides small business infrastructure, funding and substantial intellectual capital to bring important and timely life-changing technologies to market through all early phases of the commercialization process.
Company press releases are available on the Company's web site at www.crgq.com/HTML/breakingNews.html
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements made in this news release that relate to future plans, events or performances are forward-looking statements. Any statement containing words such as "believes" "anticipates" "plans" or "expects" and other statements which are not historical facts contained in this release are forward-looking, and these statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations. Consequently, actual results could differ materially from the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements. Reference is made to the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of such risks and uncertainties.
http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/040115/nyth062_1.html
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