Around the watercooler

BEST IN THE U.S.A: What do Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Heinz ketchup, Neosporin ointment and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups have in common? (Hint: NOT a curious snack).

According to a survey of American consumers by Total Research Corp., the aforementioned brands were among 19 of the top "World Class Brands" currently available in the U.S.

Ireland's Waterford Crystal earned top honors as the brand with the highest quality, said Dr. Doug Berdie, president of the Princeton, N.J.-based marketing research firm's Strategic Brand Research Group.

Rolls-Royce Bentley took second place, followed by Craftsman tools, Crayola crayons, and Bose stereo and speaker systems.

"These brands are World Class Brands because they share the same characteristic: They deliver what they promise," said Berdie. "That's what a 50-cent candy has in common with a $100,000 automobile. Quality counts."

SCOOT FROM INJURY: With scooters sitting at the top of gaggles of gift lists this holiday season, givers of the sleek, two-wheelers might consider springing for a helmet and some elbow pads for the recipients.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission said scooter injuries have skyrocketed since May, and that at least 63 percent of this year's 9,400 reported scooter-related injuries may have been prevented with protective gear.

As scooter sales soar, the Insurance Information Institute recently urged adults and children to keep in mind some safety before mounting their rides.