The following statement was issued by Chi-Chi's on Dec. 1, 2003:

Chi-Chi's, Inc., a Mexican restaurant chain headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, today commented on the dismissal of three lawsuits, previously filed against the Company by the law firm of Marler Clark, in connection with the Hepatitis A outbreak in Beaver Valley.

"Last week, public health authorities determined that a shipment of contaminated green onions to a Chi-Chi's restaurant from an outside supplier was the source of this outbreak," stated attorney William Marler. "For that reason, we have decided to dismiss the lawsuits against Chi-Chi's, and instead have filed a lawsuit against suppliers of Hepatitis A green onions that have been implicated by the FDA and CDC as the source."

Chi-Chi's continues to offer its toll free number (1-800-328-7761) to enable all customers or employees affected by the outbreak or having questions or concerns regarding Hepatitis A to contact the company. Last week, Chi-Chi's received approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court to proceed with a plan to respond to the needs of affected customers with the reimbursement of medical expenses and lost wages.

"We are pleased to learn that these lawsuits have been dismissed," said Bill Zavertnik, COO for Chi-Chi's, Inc. "This action confirms our belief that Chi-Chi's could not have done anything to prevent such an outbreak from occurring. However, we are deeply concerned with the impact this incident has had on our guests and employees and we are committed to rebuilding the trust of the community. We hope that our guests will take advantage of the outreach effort and use the 1-800 number to address questions and concerns they may have and request our assistance."