By James Pilcher
The Cincinnati Enquirer

What do Arnold Schwarzenegger and Larry Flynt have in common, besides running for governor in California? Both are about to get some fresh inspiration.

In a marketing stunt Tuesday timed with the debut of new product packaging, the Erlanger-based U.S. headquarters of the company that makes Mentos breath mints declared the candy "The Official Chewy Mint of the California Recall Election," and is sending a box to each of the 134 candidates as well as Gov. Gray Davis.

"We've got a fresh idea with our new box, and we hope that Mentos helps the candidates take a moment out to take a break and come up with their own fresh ideas," said Bob Howard, vice president of marketing for Perfetti Van Melle USA Inc. The Dutch-owned company manufactures the Airheads brand and other candies at its plant in Erlanger, which employs about 160 people. Mentos is made overseas with U.S. distribution managed through the Erlanger operations. Company officials would not disclose U.S. sales but said Mentos is among the top three domestic brands.

The company has begun selling Mentos in a new resealable box, while the traditional foil roll will be available only in multipacks. Mentos advertising typically depicts young people improvising in tough situations.

Howard said that, while the company has not yet heard from the candidates out west, "we're hoping that Mentos helps clear the air in California."

E-mail jpilcher@enquirer.com