Ms. Tropic's Yuca Chips Pageant Postponed In Deference To Victims Of Attack On America BOCA RATON, Fla., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ In deference to victims of the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, the TransMedia Group today announced it is postponing the first Annual Ms. Tropic's Yuca Chips Pageant originally scheduled for Sunday, September 23 at The Clevelander on Miami Beach. The event was to benefit the oldest hospital in Jerusalem, which treats many victims of terrorism in Israel. The pageant, to be held later this year, will now also benefit the families of the brave New York City Police Officers and Firefighters who gave their lives in the heroic attempt to rescue American victims of terrorism, said Barbara Leon, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Ritz Foods International, the makers of Tropic's Yuca Chips. "This is no the time to celebrate beauty and talent in America when so many of our own citizens are now victims of the ugly, bestial nature of terrorism," she added. Fashioned along the curvy lines of The Miss America Pageant, TransMedia's event was to culminate a nationwide talent search for a commercial spokesperson for its client, Ritz Foods International, makers of Tropics Yuca chips, which the PR firm bills as "the healthy alternative to potato chips." "It was also our intention that the Pageant will increase media interest in Bikur Cholim Hospital in Jerusalem, which treats Jews, Moslems and Christians equally," said Bruria Angel, TransMedia's Director of U.S.-Israel Public Relations. Bikur Cholim Hospital is in the middle of a "war zone" in Jerusalem. Its facilities are being stretched to the limit, said Ms. Angel, who recently moved here from Israel. "Victims of the recent terrorist bomb blast that killed 15 people, including a U.S. citizen, were taken there." The pageant features 20 contestants who are judged on artistic performance, beauty, poise, personality and speaking ability. Finalists receive cash and travel awards; the winner will be signed to do commercials for Tropic's Yuca Chips. Boca Raton-based TransMedia Group stages events from South Beach to New York City. A distinguished panel of judges representing major South Florida businesses and organizations will make final selections. Sponsors include The Casino at Bahamia, Joielle Jewelry and Ritchie Swimwear. Tropic's Yuca Chips is a high-quality, kosher snack food that contains fiber and less sodium and fat than potato chips. CONTACT: Toni Somma, TransMedia Group, +1-561-750-9800, ext. 13, or tsomma@transmediagroup.com