Darden Announces Leadership Changes at Red Lobster, Olive Garden

Darden Announces Leadership Changes at Red Lobster, Olive Garden and Other Key Roles, Draws on Deep Bench Strength to Bring Fresh Perspectives to Iconic Brands with New Energy

ORLANDO, Fla., May 16, 2011 - Drawing from its deep reservoir of leadership talent, Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI) today announced new assignments for the leaders of Red Lobster and Olive Garden, its two largest brands. The moves, which are part of a rotation of leadership in four senior positions in the company, demonstrate the benefits of Darden’s long-term commitment to developing talent and its ability to leverage its leaders’ breadth to provide key roles with new energy and insight.

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The following leadership appointments will take effect early in the new fiscal year which begins May 30, 2011:

Commenting on the moves, Darden’s Chairman and CEO Clarence Otis said: “As we look to the future and work to build on Darden’s long track record of competitively superior performance, we have a deep talent bench that can be leveraged to bring fresh perspectives to some of our most important leadership positions. The ability to reach across our business for talented and experienced professionals to lead us into the next phase of our growth reflects our consistent investment over many years in attracting, developing and nurturing outstanding individuals with a diverse array of skills.”

Commenting on the contribution each of these leaders has made to the success of the company to date, Mr. Otis noted that, “Kim, Dave, John and JJ have each made a tremendous contribution in their current roles and we’re delighted they’ve agreed to take on these new responsibilities.”

Since all of the changes involve internal moves, the company anticipates a smooth transition and expects to continue to sustain solid sales and earnings momentum. Other members of Darden’s leadership team will remain in their current roles and continue to make their own significant contributions to the company’s growth and profitability.

Darden President and COO, Drew Madsen noted: “Our brands will benefit greatly from these changes. I am excited about the opportunity to leverage these talented individuals in new ways that can take our business to the next level. They are proven leaders who have directly contributed to our industry leading financial results over the past several years. Just as importantly, they also live out Darden’s core values every day and help create a culture where our employees feel valued and motivated to deliver industry-leading performance.

How To Make A Potting Bench For Your Garden - Perfect Gardening Tips

Gardeners generally use the benches  for potting flowers and small seedlings . Potting benches  help you become more efficient.You can easily have all your garden tools within arm’s reach when  potting plants .

Potting benches are available in many materials from wood to vinyl. Building a potting bech by yourself is an easy do-it-yourself (DIY) project .

You need to decide about the location of the potting bech in your garden .Put the bench in a shady spot so you’re not working in direct sun, experts recommend. Consider whether to incorporate the bench into the landscape or hide it behind a garage or shed. Remember that a potting bench can get messy and cluttered.

You must take the size factor in account for making a potting bech . Consider what size plants and pots you will be using, and how much workspace you will need. Make sure the work area is at a comfortable level. You don’t want to have to bend down or reach up.

There are many types and designs of a potting bech . Some benches come with shelves, drawers, or utensil hooks for storing or displaying gardening tools . Consider hanging tools on hooks so they aren’t sitting in wet drawers after it rains.

Pick a material suited to your climate. Many benches are made from cedar or redwood, which can withstand the elements well. Plastic and recycled materials also hold up well in sun, rain and snow. In case you need a more mobile one you may also opt for benches that have wheels so they can be moved around the yard. If you intend to roll yours around the lawn, make sure it isn’t too heavy to push.

The price range is quite varying in nature for the potting benches .Prices largely depends upon size,design,material, and applicability aspects. A do-it-yourself (DIY) potting bench could be constructed for as little as $25. A number of gardening websites offer plans for building potting benches. Store-bought benches start at around $100.

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