BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- Ben & Jerry’s headquarters proudly recognizes Larry Roland and Kirsten Potegian, owners of the Ben & Jerry’s shop at East Hills Mall 3000 Mall View Rd., with the Rookie Of The Year.

The global recognition was recently announced at the company’s "Global Franchise Community Gathering."

The conference, held Jan. 6 through 10, took place at the Moon Palace Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

The gathering brought together exceptional franchise owners, operators, managers and staff from across the country and around the world.

"It is an honor to be recognized, especially in the middle of the esteemed crowd that gathered in Punta Cana," said Roland from the Scoop Shop at East Hills Mall 3000 Mall View Rd.. "An award like this is never a solo effort, all the wonderful people who help and support the Scoop Shop made it possible."

During the conference, attendees learned about the company’s business priorities, and strategic initiatives, as well as the latest plans for its three part mission. Multiple workshops were offered, including discussions about new product innovation and future flavors.

"I can’t tell you what the new flavors are, that’s top secret," joked Roland, "but what I can say is that we have some great new items for the 2010 season." Along with the discussions about new products, topics ran the gamut from exceptional customer service to activation of the social mission in each community. "The best part of the meeting for me personally was ," added Roland. "I think people are really going to be excited about our new flavors such as Peanut Brittle, Mike & Cookies and Chocowlate Chip in 2010."

The meeting is designed to help recharge the batteries of all involved with the Scoop Shops. The community shares best-case practices between peers from across the state or the globe.

"Each franchisee has particular strengths that they bring to the table, so it’s a great time to share and listen," Roland said.

Ben & Jerry’s operates its business on a three-part mission statement emphasizing product quality, economic reward, and a commitment to the community.

In staying with the community focus, the group volunteered time with Habitat for Humanity in the village of Macao, about 20 minutes from the resort. Hundreds helped to paint and repair homes in the area, and build a flood-control wall as a way to demonstrate their social mission commitment.

A black and white-themed awards banquet was held to honor the best of the best within the ice cream community. A costume party closed out the meeting with "The Fabulous 80s" as a theme.