Issuu

1 | Sourced | august — october 2021

S E R V I C E

•

V E R S AT I L I T Y

•

K N O W L E D G E

sourced august — october 2021 | Issue No. 3

Food Service Ideas and Inspiration the Heirloom Tomato

FIND THE LLAMA INSIDE THIS MAGAZINE

conquer team dysfunction pg 26

meet our fruit department pg 12

proud partner Riveridge Produce Marketing pg 16

page 28

top seasonal picks pg 19

TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to Sourced............................................................................................3

ABOUT AMC PAGE 4

SERVICE

about AMC | the beginning.............................................................. 4 the AMC app..................................................................................................7

CONQUER TEAM DYSFUNCTION

AMC all stars................................................................................................. 8

congratulations to our employee All Stars

MARKET CUTS® the difference is…consistency..............10 meet our team: the fruit department....................................12

PAGE 26

VERSATILITY

grower spotlights

Kid’s Choice® Watermelons......................................................................................... 14 Lane Southern Orchards............................................................................................. 15

proud partners

Riveridge Produce Marketing.................................................................................... 16

F O O D S E R V I C E I D E A S & I N S P I R AT I O N

Continental Fresh/Water for All................................................................................ 18

THE HEIRLOOM TOMATO PAGE 28

KNOWLEDGE

seasonal selections

sourced Issue No. 3 | august — october 2021

OUR TEAM

top seasonal picks........................................................................................................ 19 seasonal availability chart......................................................................................... 20 summer and fall celebrations ................................................................................... 21

produce guides

take a look at these melons ...................................................................................... 22 the Scoville heat scale................................................................................................. 23 how to use onions ...................................................................................................... 24 ‘tis the season for stone fruit!................................................................................... 25

The Table Group | Conquer Team Dysfunction .......... 26 food service ideas and inspiration the heirloom tomato...... 28 pictured from left to right:

chef Fred’s corner............................................................................29 Anthony Marano Company

3000 S. Ashland Ave. • Chicago, IL 60608 773.321.7500 | info@amarano.com

welcome to

Sourced SERVICE • VERSATILITY • KNOWLEDGE

The Anthony Marano Company sells produce to provide our employees and their families with better life opportunities. Throughout this edition of Sourced, you’ll see examples of our focus on family; from the story of the Maranos and the evolution of AMC, to the families of employees who work with us, as well as the strong bonds we’ve formed with our growers and shippers. Also, in this issue: get key insights from The Table Group about dysfunctional teams, be inspired with some fantastic food service menu ideas, meet our “All Star” employees, learn about our new customer app, and much more! Thank you for your partnership.

Anton Marano

Damon Marano

Chief Executive Officer Chief Sales Officer

4 | Sourced | august — october 2021

The Beginning

About the Anthony Marano Company

~ 1916-1960 ~

he Marano Family were established lemon packers in Sicily when they immigrated to the United States in 1916. Shortly thereafter, tomatoes became the family’s fruit of choice. Born in 1922, Anthony Marano was the second oldest of six children. To help support his family, he began working at the original Chicago South Water Market when he was only fifteen years old.

During WWII,

he served in Germany and France for four years and participated in the Battle of the Bulge.

Anthony’s business savvy, combined with his entrepreneurial ideas, led him to experiment with several different business ventures while serving overseas. Through this activity, he was able to save nearly $5000! It was with this money that our first tomato-packing machine was purchased. Today, you can still see this same machine in the entry to our building on Ashland Avenue in Chicago!

After returning from the war, Anthony met and married Josephine in 1946 and with her encouragement, he broke from the family business and started out on his own.

The Anthony Marano Company was founded in 1947 at 4-6-8 South Water Market as a tomato distribution company servicing the Chicagoland area.

~ 1961-1981 ~

In 1961, Anthony partnered with Mike Navillo to create the short lived Marano/Navillo Company. Through this partnership, the company began to also distribute cucumbers and peppers. Anton T. Marano, Anthony and Josephine’s first born son, began working for the company full time in 1968.

In 1969, the Marano/Navillo Company dissolved and The Anthony Marano CompanyAnthony Marano in tomato fields, circa 1970. continued separately, operating at 4-6-8 South Water Market until the Chicago Produce Market was relocated in 1994.

Anton oversaw the building of our facility in Addison in 1981 which served as the primary location for all our tomato repacking and shipping for both foodservice and retail. Ripening rooms were installed and the Anthony Marano Company was now able to gas tomatoes on site, offering customers a more economical product.

6 | Sourced | august — october 2021

~ 1986 - present ~

In 1986, the foodservice segment of our business began when McDonald’s began a tomato program with the Anthony Marano Company. To this day, we provide tomatoes as well as many other items to food service companies throughout the Midwest. Sadly, after a long fight with cancer, Anthony Marano passed away n January 1987, leaving the company to his wife and children. Josephine remained active in the business with Anton maintaining operational responsibility. Within the next several years, the Anthony Marano Company grew substantially by adding commodity specific departments. In 1987, we added a vegetable department. In 1989, our Fruit department was created. The Lettuce Department branched off from the Vegetable Department in 1990.

Still operating at 4-6-8 South Water Market, we expanded in 1992 when we purchased the Lamantia facility on the market. With this purchase we also acquired a building at 1501 South Blue Island which was renovated in 1993 and became the hub for our sales and administrative offices.

In 1994, we enjoyed further expansion when we split our Fruit Department into two different departments: Fruit (stone, tree and deciduous fruit) and Berries. In 2000, all AMC operations were consolidated and moved into a 450,000 square foot facility on Ashland Avenue in Chicago, where we remain to this day. Anton T. Marano retired in 2016 and the leadership of the company was placed into the hands of his two sons, Anton J. and Damon. Since then, we have been dedicated to upholding the relationships, commitments and service that our company was founded on.

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES AT

still remember my interview 18 years ago with Anton T. Marano. He asked me, “How do you think you can help the business?” He then explained how AMC was different from any other company and Shawn Nowakowski how he felt IT should be Director of IT different as well. One of those important differences was AMC’s focus on building relationships with our shippers, customers, and employees. Some of these relationships span decades. Throughout my tenure at AMC, I continually learned that relationships in IT are just as important. The best IT Departments take the time to understand, and know their users including their goals, challenges, and the landscapes they operate. Building this understanding and incorporating the vision of our leadership is the map that IT follows to support and promote the overall objectives of the company. One of these visions, which focuses on building our relationships with our customers, is the new AMC customer app (available from the Apple App Store and Google Play). The goal is to provide transparency and convenience to our customer experience. We wanted to create a simple and useful tool to provide access to orders, logistics, pricing, news, and account info for our customers. In addition, we also wanted to add the ability for our customers to share and collaborate with our sales teams. It is a privilege to support our customers through this new app. We hope you enjoy using it as much as we enjoyed making it. We look forward to continuing to learn more about our customers’ business as we add future functionality.

7 |

KNOWLEDGE | THE AMC APP | 7

Improve Your Buying Experience with our App Easy access to your account info on the go!

Example of customized access

OFFERING DIFFERENT LEVELS OF ACCESS TO YOUR ACCOUNT INFORMATION BASED ON ROLES

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ALL STARS

Lizbeth Cruz Supervisor - Day, Market Cuts AMC Family Member Since 2019

Because of her hunger and motivation, Lizbeth has quickly become a strong asset in supporting Market Cuts. One of our newer employees, she started as a cutter and soon grew into the leader of the vegetable packing area. Her humility has allowed her to use her resources to learn and grow. She has created her own opportunity and was promoted to day shift supervisor. She is an ideal team player who leads by example. • Lizbeth is constantly curious and looking for ways to be better than she was yesterday. • She helped establish the new kabob line and created efficiencies in label application. • Regardless of her title or position, she gets the job done. During the pandemic, Lizbeth covered multiple areas when needed.

CONGRATULATIONS TO Our All Star employees exemplify our AMC company behaviors:

We are Motivated: We work to be better than we were yesterday. We create our own opportunities. Regardless our title or position, we get the job done.

Dave Frenzel Logistics Coordinator AMC Family Member Since 2018

Dave’s career at AMC started as a driver. He was promoted in 2021 to logistics coordinator because of his ability to identify areas of improvement (GEMS) and offer solutions. Today, he schedules and manages 53 drivers! • After 20 years behind the wheel, Dave’s passion easily transitioned him to his new role. • He was key in implementing pickup and delivery expectations to improve our customer service. • True to the Marano Way, Dave’s job does not stop when he leaves the building. He is dedicated to customer service, even making a late delivery when no other drivers were available. • He supported the rollout of the AMC App to customers and customer drivers.

Alexandra Lara Housekeeping Manager AMC Family Member Since 2011

Alexandra started her journey at AMC as a member of the housekeeping team. Her attention to detail, dependability, and passion led to her success. She continually works to be better than yesterday. In 2018, she was promoted to housekeeping manager because of her ability to coach, inspire, and work with others. She leads a team of twelve housekeepers who are responsible for the cleanliness of our 650,000 square foot facility. She consistently goes above and beyond and always does what is best for AMC. It is enjoyable to work with her and her team. • Her positive attitude and dedication has improved the culture of the housekeeping team. • Regardless of her title or position, she gets the job done. In addition to her housekeeping responsibilities, she coordinates events, helps with clothing orders and inventory, manages our holiday décor, and works on this magazine’s publication!

9 | Sourced | august — october 2021 OUR AMC ALL STARS!

SERVICE | ALL STARS | 9

We Protect the Golden Goose:

We Live the “Marano” Way:

We treat AMC like it is ours. We do what is best for AMC and AMC does what is best for us.

We take pride in what we do. We pay attention to the details. We are passionate. We are “family”.

Omar Lopez

Jose Moyeda

Value Added Manager

Cooler/Zone Captain

AMC Family Member Since 2015

AMC Family Member Since 2016

Omar started at AMC as a repacker and, because he was dedicated to increasing his knowledge and experience, was promoted to an overwrap/flow wrap operator. Within a year, his hunger and curiosity let to another promotion as a tomato line operator. In 2018, he was promoted again to production board coordinator and this year was promoted to his current role. Omar now empowers, coaches, and leads 69 employees on 13 lines. Omar is always smiling, has a positive attitude, and offers suggestions to make the lines run efficiently. • Omar contributed to the creation of a strategy that holds employees accountable to efficiency goals. • He supported the implementation of a new metric system and coached twelve line captains on two shifts about the process. • Always striving to be better than he was yesterday, Omar is working towards his Associate Degree in Business. • He collaborates with other departments, including Quality Assurance, to learn procedures and share with his team.

Jose’s dedication and hunger has allowed him to create his own opportunities at AMC. He started as a repacker and his potential was recognized in less than a week. He was promoted to day receiver and shortly after, to order selector for the Banana Department. His attention to detail and thirst for knowledge led to his promotion to Banana Department cooler captain in 2018. Because of his hunger for more, he was most recently promoted to zone captain, managing multiple coolers. Jose manages approximately 200 commodities. • He does what is best for AMC. He assisted in the implementation of our pineapple inspection process. • Customers seek out Jose because they trust his knowledge. He is aware of our customers and ensures accurate orders. He is successful because he delivers kick-ass service, versatility and knowledge to our customers.

Juan “Timon” Manuel Romero Packaging Coordinator AMC Family Member Since 2004

For the past 17 years, Timon’s hunger and motivation have driven his career growth at AMC. He began his journey as a repacker, then a tomato line operator in 2004 and, because of his hard work and dedication, he was promoted to a production board coordinator. Most recently, he was promoted to packaging coordinator for both AMC and Market Cuts. • Timon was a critical resource in the complete teardown and re-creation of the classification of tomato repack items. His participation in this project allowed for a seamless change without affecting our customers and therefore, protecting the Golden Goose (AMC). • His coaching and training has empowered other employees on tomato lines and their operations. • Timon has been versatile in his roles throughout the company, showing that he is humble, hungry, and smart.

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THE DIFFERENCE IS…

SAFETY | CONSISTENCY | QUALITY “Consistency is what transforms average into excellence…” Our customers can depend on Market Cuts to provide finished product with the same delicious flavor, size, and shape. What looks completely different in the field is consistent in the package.

PILLAR TWO

CONSISTENCY

THE SOURCE Market Cuts only sources produce from within the Anthony Marano Company. The vendors we use are trusted partners and many of these relationships have spanned multiple generations. Quality, flavorful product from these growers and shippers are key to providing fresh cut items that are uniform in taste and customer specifications.

THE PROCESS Our product is stored in temperature controlled rooms prior to cutting, ensuring no breaks in the cold chain and preserving the flavor profile. State of the art machinery guarantees accurate product size and shape. Lastly, our volume increases over the last year have enabled our teams to develop efficiencies in cutting, packing, and shipping.

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THE PEOPLE

SERVICE | CONSISTENCY | 11

Our people are the most important part of creating a quality and consistent product. Although Market Cuts is a new company, our people bring with them years of experience in the fresh cut industry. Through repetition, they have honed their skills into a mastery of the craft of cutting. “Repetition of the same thought or physical action develops into a habit which, repeated frequently enough, becomes an automatic reflex.” – Norman Vincent Peale

OVER

150

YEARS of experience on this page

Definition of

Consistency:

/kən-ˈsi-stənsē/ 1. steadfast adherence to the same principles, course, form, etc.

2. agreement, harmony, or compatibility, especially correspondence or uniformity among the parts of a complex thing

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MEET OUR TEAM | FRUIT DEPARTMENT

john arundel, jr.

nick killham

john (johnny o) arundel

lindo jimenez

director

associate director

AMC Family Member Since 2006 FAVORITE FRUIT: PEACHES

AMC Family Member Since 2018 FAVORITE FRUIT: WATERMELON

senior commodity and sales manager

commodity and sales professional AMC Family Member Since 2008 FAVORITE FRUIT: MEXICAN MANGOS

I have been in the Fruit Department my entire career at AMC and am proud to be a second-generation produce industry professional. My dad works with me in our department too! What makes AMC different is our vast knowledge of markets and movements and the multigenerational relationships that we have formed with our customers and vendors. When I am not working, I spend my time with my family; I have five children (future produce professionals).

I started in the industry nine years ago and worked for both Robinson Fresh and Fresh Thyme before joining the Fruit Department. I purchase Michigan apples, watermelon, citrus, and pomegranates. I enjoy the ability to create customized fruit programs for our customers based on their sales goals. Outside of AMC, I enjoy spending time with my family, golfing, and attending as many White Sox games as I can.

AMC Family Member Since 2001 FAVORITE FRUIT: FUJI APPLE

Although I have 45 years in the produce industry, the best have been the last 20 as part of the AMC Fruit Department. Working with, and for my son have been the finest years of my career. At AMC, we are dedicated to the long-term success of our customers and we create strategic partnerships with our vendors. Personally, I am very team oriented; I care more about the health and success of this team than any individual achievements.

I have been a part of the AMC Family, and our Fruit Family, for the last thirteen years. I love working here because we are always bringing in new and different types of fruit commodities like our new mango and apple varieties, yellow watermelons, seedless lemons, and pink lemons. Since I am unique myself, I love selling these unusual items. Talking about family, my son Mikey now works in our Lettuce Department! In my spare time, I enjoy flying my drone.

karina zaragoza

tim eyer

grant jackson

juan trujillo

alyssa frenzel

commodity and sales professional

sales professional

sales coordinator

sales assistant

AMC Family Member Since 2006 FAVORITE FRUIT: WATERMELON

AMC Family Member Since 2019 FAVORITE FRUIT: HONEYDEW

AMC Family Member Since 2019 FAVORITE FRUIT: MANGOS

AMC Family Member Since 2016 FAVORITE FRUIT: WATERMELON

AMC Family Member Since 2020 FAVORITE FRUIT: HEIRLOOM ORANGES AND MINNEOLAS

I have been with AMC for four years, starting in our repack department and transitioning to the Fruit Department in 2020. It has always felt like family for me here, as I have ten other family members that work here too! I love my job, but when I am not working, you’ll find me at the gym.

I joined AMC in the Accounts Payable Department working for both our Tomato and Fruit Departments and started on the floor in the Fruit Department a little over three months ago. My dad and my sister also work at AMC! I also just became an aunt for the first time, so I enjoy spending time with my nieces and with my dog Rocco. Fun fact: Alyssa is a twin!

As the first female on our sales floor, I think of myself as the “mother figure” for my department. Fifteen years ago, I started in our Accounts Payable Department and on the weekends, I worked as a cashier. I have also been an order coordinator in our Repack Department and then an Admin in our Fruit Department. I started in sales nine years ago and have been here ever since. AMC sells the best produce from the best farms and shipper partners and we carry the best labels! When I am not working, you will find me spending time with my family. My mother, sisters, and I enjoy cooking outside when the weather permits. I also like to crochet and I collect keychains!

I have been with the AMC Fruit Family for two years now and the coolest thing we sell is our own exclusive Gotcha brand lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruit, and kiwi. Outside of work, I like to watch my kids playing sports or participating in other activities. We enjoy taking trips to parks and lakes to stay active; our favorite family vacation is Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio.

In 2019, my family business, Vegetable Fresh Inc., was purchased by AMC. My father, my brother Kyle, and I, joined the Market Cuts team during the transition and in August of 2020, I joined the AMC Fruit Department. I am a new father myself; I have two kids under the age of two. I am a big golfer, like to flip antiques, and refinish antique furniture. My favorite vacation spots are Colorado in the summer and Florida in the winter.

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SERVICE | MEET OUR TEAM | 13

GOOD TO KNOW

From the Dominican Republic:

Francine Mangos

Peaches, nectarines, and plums are readily available.

—one of the finest tasting in the world!

Mingolo Mangos

Strong supply on watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew melons.

—high sugar content, super sweet taste.

There are likely to be shortages on some apple varieties before the new 2021 crop begins. Be prepared for labor, raw material, and freight costs to be on the rise.

Wonderful® Seedless Lemons

Peaches will most likely still be available in August and September.

Cosmic Crisp® Apples

New crop apples will start in September and October.

—widely available this season

LEMON

APPLE

ORANGE

MANGO PEACH

NECTARINE

KIWI PEAR CHERRY

GRAPEFRUIT

WATERMELON

APRICOT

POMEGRANATE LIME

HONEY DEW

CANTALOUPE

OUR PRODUCTS

PLUM OUR EXCLUSIVE GOTCHA BRAND CITRUS AND KIWI PRODUCTS

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Grower Spotlight

Kid’s Choice Watermelons ®

Dedicated to the distribution of the finest fruit in the USA, all Kid’s Choice watermelons are inspected prior to shipping for quality, appearance, maturity, and, most importantly, flavor.

PROUD PARTNER

Farm to store in 24 to 48 hours! Packing facilities in Michigan, Florida, Georgia, and Arkansas. To order, contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550 or fruit@amarano.com.

Tom Glenos, owner

WATERMELON FUN FACTS • Early explorers used watermelons as canteens. • Watermelon rinds are edible! In China, the rinds are either stir-fried or stewed and in southern states they are often pickled. • There are over 1200 different watermelon varieties. Kid’s Choice are also available in seedless, yellow, and black varieties.

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VERSATILITY | GROWER SPOTLIGHT | 15

Grower Spotlight Located in the heart of middle Georgia, Lane Southern Orchards has been planting, growing, and harvesting the best peaches in the state since 1908. With 5,000 acres of glorious peach orchards and 35+ peach varieties, they pride themselves on bringing the authentic flavors of local Georgia foods from their farm to families across the US. Why are Georgia peaches so much tastier than ones grown in other states? According to Lane, the key is Georgia’s hot summer nights and its rich, red clay soil. To order these delicious peaches, contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550

PROUD PARTNER

or at fruit@amarano.com

GREAT IN-STORE SAMPLING IDEA

Strawberry Peach Smoothie INGREDIENTS • 3/4 cup vanilla soy milk or low fat milk • 1 scoop vanilla ice cream • 1/4 cup frozen sliced strawberries • 4 fresh strawberries, sliced • 1 small fresh peach, sliced DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

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PROUD PARTNER Riveridge Produce Marketing, Inc. is a vertically integrated apple grower/packer/shipper/marketer headquartered in Sparta, Michigan. They represent one-half of Michigan’s fresh apple crop! And we are very proud to be their partner!

FAMILY AND HERITAGE In 1990, Don Armock, Roger Geers, and the late Dan Rock, Sr. began Riveridge Produce in a three-room rented office in Grant, Michigan. They shared a vision for growing and marketing quality fruit and sought after varieties while providing personalized service experiences for their customers. Riveridge is a family business in many ways. Armock family members head up sales and supply chain while other areas of the business are comprised of spouses, siblings, and multi-generational long-term employees. Over the years, Riveridge Produce has developed partnerships with the best apple growers in Michigan and Wisconsin, along with seven state-of-the-art packing facilities.

MICHIGAN APPLES Michigan is the second-most agriculturally diverse state in the U.S. The soil is fertile, it provides for natural irrigation, warm days for growing, and cool nights for sweetening up the fruit. The season kicks off

FUN APPLE FACTS: Michigan has about 15 million apple trees

in the ground and more than 35,000 acres of apple orchards, nearly 800 of which are family-run (some in their sixth and seventh generations).

After harvest, apples are often stored for up to a year in large “refrigerators”. Oxygen is pulled from the room to put the apples to “sleep” but once the room is opened again, the fruit wakes back up and tastes the same as when they were harvested.

with Paula Red, a phenomenal baking apple and Ginger Gold, sweet and juicy out-of-hand eating. The harvest for this upcoming season is anticipated to kick off around August 29.

To order Riveridge apples or ciders, contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550 or at fruit@amarano.com

VERSATILITY | PROUD PARTNER | 17

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HERE’S THE FULL LINE UP OF RIVERIDGE APPLES (in

order of harvest)

What’s apple season without freshpressed cider? Riveridge offers a number of varietal (Honeycrisp, Gala and Fuji) and flavored (Pumpkin Spice, Salted Caramel, Apple Pie, Apple Spice) ciders in addition to their popular blends. Fresh pressed from whole apples, the key difference with Riveridge ciders is consistent taste.

* *NEW FOR 2021/2022!

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brought to you by

PROUD PARTNER

lbert Perez, CEO of Continental Fresh LLC, shares our “Passion for Produce” and throughout the past six years of working together, we have depended on him to source the best mangos for our customers.

785 million people

Continental Fresh collaborates with growers who are the experts in their product categories and who are meticulous about product quality and food safety.

lack access to clean water Albert Perez (left)

Providing excellence in fruit, however, is not the only passion of Perez’s. A portion of the sales of Water For All brand mangos is donated to Blue Missions Group, a non-profit dedicated to improving the health of rural communities in the Dominican Republic through the construction of aqueduct and sanitation systems. Blue Missions Group leads volunteer based trips to these rural areas in an effort to educate, and inspire others to become “change makers”. Giving back to the communities he works with is a driving force for Perez and a mission at Continental Fresh. For more information about Blue Missions, or to participate in an upcoming sanitation project, please visit www.bluemissions.org. To order Water for All mangos, please contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550 or fruit@amarano.com.

2.4 billion people lack access to proper sanitation

KNOWLEDGE | SEASONAL SELECTIONS | 19

19 | Sourced | august — october 2021

top seasonal picks

All items available throughout the year unless otherwise noted.

mango

melons

chili peppers

Did you know that the mango is a symbol of love in India? Well, we love these delicious drupes! They pair well with everything from fish to spicy peppers and work great in drinks, desserts, mains, and sides.

We love our watermelons! And our dews and lopes too! Check out our melon guide on page 22.

How much hot can you handle? Turn to page 23 for a handy chili pepper reference guide, the Scoville Scale.

corn

stone fruit

Steamed, grilled, or in salads and street food, nothing is as tasty as fresh, sweet corn. Ours is available throughout the year!

Summer and fall is prime stone fruit season! Peaches, plums, apricots, and more. Get these sweet treats while they last.

heirloom tomatoes

grapes

Every color has a different flavor profile! See our Food Service Ideas and Inspiration (page 28) for some great heirloom recipe ideas.

More than red, green, and black. Try some specialty varieties like Champagne, Baby Doll, Candy Hearts, and Candy Snaps.

pineapple

Sweet or savory, this versatile fruit pairs well with everything from pizzas to pastries.

onions

See our onion guide on page 24 to learn about the best uses for each variety.

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seasonal availability chart SPECIALTY

LOCAL LOCAL APPLES

AUG

SEP

OCT

MIDWEST FRUITS & VEGETABLES RADISH, BLACK - IL

BRAEBURN

BEANS, GREEN - IL, WI, MI

CORTLAND

AUG

SEP

OCT

SPECIALTY PRODUCE

FUJI

BLUEBERRIES - MI

CHERIMOYA

GALA

CABBAGE, GREEN - IL, WI

FIGS, TIGER

GINGER GOLD

CELERY - MI

GOLDEN DELICIOUS

CELERY ROOT - IL CILANTRO - IL, OH, MI CORN - IL, IN, WI

IDA RED

KUMQUATS LYCHEES

JONAMAC

DILL - IL

MANDARIN, STEM AND LEAF

JONATHAN

EGGPLANT - IL

MANGOS, COGNAC

MCINTOSH

GRAPES, CONCORD - MI

PAULA RED

HORSERADISH - IL

RED DELICIOUS

LETTUCE, GREEN LEAF - MI

ROME

LETTUCE, RED LEAF - MI

BEETS, BUNCH WI CABBAGE, GREEN IN, WI, OH, IA, MI

AUG

SEP

OCT

MELON, CANARY MELON, CRENSHAW MELON, GALIA MELON, HAMI

ONION, RED - WI, IA, MI

MELON, LEMON DROP

WI, IA, MI

PARSNIPS - MI

CABBAGE, RED IN, WI, OH, IA, MI

PEACHES - MI

CHARDS IN, WI, OH, IA, MI

PEPPERS, GREEN - MI

COLLARDS WI

IL, MI

KALE, GREEN IN, WI, OH, IA, MI

MELON, CASABA

MINT - IL

ONION, YELLOW

PEPPERS, JALAPENO PEPPERS, VAR. - IL PICKLES - MI

MELON, SANTA CLAUS MELON, TUSCAN ORO BLANCO PASSION FRUIT PLUMCOTS POMELLO

KALE, BLACK IN, WI, OH, IA, MI

PLUMS - MI

RAMBUTANS

PEPPERS, GREEN IN, MI, OH

POTATOES, RUSSET RED, GOLDEN - WI

STARFRUIT

SQUASH WI, OH, IA, IN

PUMPKINS - IL, WI, MI

VEGETABLES

SQUASH, YELLOW IN, WI, OH, IA, MI

- WI

EGGPLANT, SICILIAN

RHUBARB - MN

NUTS, BULK

TOMATOES, CHERRY MI, OH TOMATOES, GRAPE MI, OH ZUCCHINI IN, WI, OH, IA, MI

PUMPKINS, FAIRY TALE

SQUASH, HARD - MI SQUASH, YELLOW IL, MI

TOMATOES, CHERRY IL, IN, MI

TOMATOES, GRAPE

OCT

HONEYDEW, ORANGE FLESH

CUCUMBERS - IL, MI

LOCAL ORGANIC

SEP

HALLOWEEN ORNAMENTALS

JONAGOLD

LETTUCE, ROMAINE - MI

OCT

APRICOTS, VELVET APRIUMS

HONEYCRISP

SEP

FRUIT

BEETS, RED - MI

EMPIRE

AUG

PEPPERS, GYPSY PEPPERS, MELROSE PUMPKINS

IL, IN, MI

TOMATOES, ROMA IL, IN, MI

TOMATOES, VINE RIPE IL, IN, MI

WATERMELON - IN, MI ZUCCHINI - IL, MI

SPECIALTY ORGANIC SQUASH, DELICATA - WI, MI SQUASH, RED KURI - WI, MI

AUG

KNOWLEDGE | TOP SEASO NAL PICKS | 21 21

AUG

NATIONAL WATERMELON DAY

NATIONAL PEACH MONTH

NATIONAL ZUCCHINI DAY

NATIONAL POTATO DAY

NATIONAL LEMONADE DAY

EAT A PEACH DAY

BUTTERED CORN DAY

BANANA LOVERS DAY

C E L E B R AT I O N S

SEPT

NATIONAL COCONUT DAY

NATIONAL MUSHROOM MONTH NATIONAL ORGANIC HARVEST MONTH

LABOR DAY

NATIONAL GUACAMOLE DAY

WORLD VEGETARIAN DAY

NATIONAL APPLE MONTH

VEGETARIAN MONTH

6-8

ROSH HASHANAH

NATIONAL ACORN SQUASH DAY

COLUMBUS DAY

SWEETEST DAY

SPINACH LOVERS MONTH

NATIONAL POTATO MONTH

OCT

YOM KIPPUR

NATIONAL FOODSERVICE EMPLOYEES DAY

NATIONAL APPLE DAY

BOSS’ DAY

NATIONAL PUMPKIN DAY

NATIONAL MUSHROOM DAY

NATIONAL CARAMEL APPLE DAY

HALLOWEEN

YELLOW WATERMELON

WATERMELON A summer essential! Refreshing and sweet.

Sweet, with notes of honey and apricot.

BLACK WATERMELON Mild and delicate, sweet and satisfying.

t a k o o l a e k a T ! s on l e these m CANTALOUPE

Light and sweet. Perfect for fruit salads, smoothies, and snacking.

CANARY

Distinctive, sweet, and tangy.

CRENSHAW Very sweet and slightly spicy.

To order, contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550

HAMI

ATHENIA

Exceptionally sweet with floral and honey notes.

Also known as Chinese melon or snow melon. Very crisp and sweet with apple notes.

GALIA

Complex flavor with tropical notes.

SANTA CLAUS Also known as a Christmas melon. Tastes like a honeydew.

HONEYDEW Mild and musky, light and subtle.

CASABA

Extremely juicy, sweet and creamy.

P RODUCE I S OUR PASSION

Retailer Tip: Found this guide helpful? Post it for your customers! Help them make informed shopping decisions and navigate your produce section. Cut along the dotted line.

23 | Sourced | august — october 2021 23

THE SCOVILLE HEAT SCALE Created by Dr. Wilbur Scoville, the Scoville Heat Scale measures the relative heat intensity of chili peppers. While different cultures have different ideas of spiciness, the Scoville Scale is regarded as the most reliable source of heat levels in chilis and other peppers. EXTREME HOT 1.5 MM+ SHU

Carolina Reaper

FIERY HOT 1MM-1.5MM SHU

1.5MM - 2.4MM SHU

Trinidad Scorpion

REALLY HOT 500K-1MM SHU

Ghost Pepper

1.2 - 2MM SHU

600K - 1MM SHU

Chocolate Habanero

VERY HOT 250K-500K SHU

Devil Tongue

300K - 500K SHU

Red Savina Habanero Fatali

100K - 500K SHU

Scotch Bonnet

100K - 325K SHU

Orange Habanero Bahamian Datil

100K - 225K SHU

50K - 110K SHU

Chiltepin Pequin Thai

100K - 250K SHU

50K - 1.6MM SHU

Tabiche

HOT 50K-100K SHU

100K - 350K SHU

Jamaican Hot Tepin

100K - 350K SHU

100K - 300K SHU

Birds Eye

SPICY HOT 100K-150K SHU

250K - 577K SHU

50K - 100K SHU

50K - 75K SHU

Yatsufusa

40K - 75K SHU

Cayenne 30K - 125K SHU Tabasco Aji

30K - 50K SHU

30K - 100K SHU

Manzano

30K - 75K SHU

De Arbol

15K - 30K SHU

Hot Wax

5K - 10K SHU

Chipotle

5K - 10K SHU

Jalapeño MILD HOT 2K-50K SHU

2.5K - 8K SHU

Guajillo

2.5K - 5K SHU

Mirasol

2.5K - 5K SHU

Pasilla

1K - 2K SHU

Ancho

1K - 2K SHU

Poblano

1K - 2K SHU

Espanola

1K - 1.5K SHU

Coronado

700 - 1K SHU

Numex Big Jam Anaheim

500 - 2.5K SHU

Santa Fe Grande

500 - 750 SHU

Santa Fe Grande

500 - 750 SHU

Pepperocini Cherry MILD 0- 2K SHU

To order, contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550

500 - 2.5K SHU

100 - 500 SHU

100 - 3.5K SHU

Bell Pepper 0 SHU

P R O DU CE I S O U R PA SSIO N

Onions

YELLOW

BEST ALL AROUND COOKING ONION

Meats, Sauces, Soups, Stews

SWEET BEST FOR FRYING

Onion Rings, Gratins, Roasted Vegetables

GREEN | SCALLIONS BRIGHT AND CRISP

Garnishes, Stir Frys, Salads, Baking, Sauces To order, contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550

RED BEST FOR EATING RAW

Guacamole, Pickled Onions, Salsas, Sandwiches

SHALLOT MILDER AND MORE SUBTLE

Vinaigrettes, Egg Casseroles, Garnishes

LEEK AROMATIC, SWEET, AND MILD

Sauces, Soups, Pastas, Sides

Retailer Tip: Found this guide helpful? Post it for your customers! Help them make informed shopping decisions and navigate your produce section. Cut along the dotted line.

HOW TO USE

WHITE

CRUNCHIEST AND SHARPEST ZING

Salsas, Chutneys, Stir Frys

PEARL

MILD AND SWEET

Cook Whole, Roasted, Pickled, Caramelized

CEBOLLITAS SPANISH FOR “LITTLE ONION”

Grilled, Braised, Fajitas, Steak

P R O DU CE I S O U R PA SSIO N

Stone Fruit!

25 25 | Sourced | august — october 2021

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR

CHERRY

APRICOT

PLUM

Bing and Rainier are the most popular cherry varieties. A sweet summer treat.

Sweet, tart, creamy and meaty. Short seasonality.

Tasty and juicy. There are between 200 and 300 different varieties currently grown in the United States!

MANGO NECTARINE

Colorful, creamy, and tropical. Pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.

Soft skin without a peach’s “fuzz”. Flavor and texture similar to that of a peach.

PEACH There are more than 2000 varieties of peaches! Yellow, white, donut, and dwarf are just a few.

PLUMCOT A plum/apricot hybrid. Half plum, half apricot. To order, contact the AMC Fruit Department at 773.321.7550

P R O DU CE I S O U R PA SSIO N

26 | Sourced | august — october 2021

CONQUER TEAM DYSFUNCTION

LEADERSHIP AT

At the Anthony Marano Company, our employees are our biggest asset and our most important focus. Within the last several years, we’ve launched significant training and development programs, utilizing some of the best materials available including work done by The Table Group, a company founded by our partner, Patrick Lencioni. Honing behaviors that prevent our teams from falling into any of the dysfunctions is our goal. At AMC, our teams strive to be genuine with each other, practice healthy conflict, create impeccable agreements, foster peer-to-peer accountability,

for more information visit

tablegroup.com

INTRODUCTION ike it or not, all teams are potentially dysfunctional. This is inevitable because

they are made up of fallible, imperfect human beings. From the basketball court to the executive suite, politics and confusion are more the rule than the exception. However, facing dysfunction and focusing on teamwork is particularly critical at the top of an organization because the executive team sets the tone for how all employees work with one another.

and are scorecard focused.

A former client, the founder of a billion dollar company, best

We hope you find this helpful within

expressed the power of teamwork when he once told me,

your own organization and invite

“If you could get all the people in the organization rowing

you to read more about Patrick’s

in the same direction, you could dominate any industry,

work by visiting tablegroup.com. n

in any market, against any competition, at any time.” Whenever I repeat this adage to a group of leaders, they immediately nod their heads, but in a desperate sort of way. They seem to grasp the truth of it while simultaneously surrendering to the impossibility of actually making it happen. Fortunately, there is hope. Counter to conventional wisdom, the causes of dysfunction are both identifiable and curable. However, they do not die easily. Making a

Rick Van Arnam

Vice President of Leadership, Team Development, and Strategy

team functional and cohesive requires levels of courage and discipline that many groups cannot seem to muster.

KNOWLEDGE | AMC LEADERSHIP | 27

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THE 5 DYSFUNCTIONS INATTENTION TO RESULTS

RESULTS

Team members naturally tend to put their own needs (ego, career development, recognition, etc.) ahead of the collective goals of the team when individuals are not held accountable. If a team has lost sight of the need for achievement, the business ultimately suffers.

AVOIDANCE OF ACCOUNTABILITY

ACCOUNTABILITY

When teams do not commit to a clear plan of action, even the most focused and driven individuals hesitate to call their peers on actions and behaviors that may seem counterproductive to the overall good of the team.

LACK OF COMMITMENT

COMMITMENT

Without conflict, it is difficult for team members to commit to decisions, creating an environment where ambiguity prevails. Lack of direction and commitment can make employees, particularly star employees, disgruntled.

FEAR OF CONFLICT

CONFLICT

Teams that are lacking on trust are incapable of engaging in unfiltered, passionate debate about key issues, causing situations where team conflict can easily turn into veiled discussions and back channel comments. In a work setting where team members do not openly air their opinions, inferior decisions are the result.

ABSENCE OF TRUST

TRUST

To begin improving your team and to better understand the level of dysfunction you are facing, ask yourself these simple questions: • Do team members openly and readily disclose their opinions? • Are team meetings compelling and productive? • Does the team come to decisions quickly and avoid getting bogged down by consensus? • Do team members confront one another about their shortcomings? • Do team members sacrifice their own interests for the good of the team? Although no team is perfect and even the best teams sometimes struggle with one or more of these issues, the finest organizations constantly work to ensure that their answers are “yes.” If you answered “no” to many of these questions, your team may need some work. The first step toward reducing politics and confusion within your team is to understand that there are five dysfunctions to contend with, and address each that applies, one by one.

This occurs when team members are reluctant to be vulnerable with one another and are unwilling to admit their mistakes, weaknesses, or needs for help. Without a certain comfort level among team members, a foundation of trust is impossible.

THE REWARDS

Striving to create a functional, cohesive team is one of the few remaining competitive advantages available to any organization looking for a powerful point of differentiation. Functional teams avoid wasting time talking about the wrong issues and revisiting the same topics over and over again because of lack of buy-in. Functional teams also make higher quality decisions and accomplish more in less time and with less distraction and frustration. Additionally, “A” players rarely leave organizations where they are part of a cohesive team. Successful teamwork is not about mastering subtle, sophisticated theories, but rather about embracing common sense with uncommon levels of discipline and persistence. Ironically, teams succeed because they are exceedingly human. By acknowledging the imperfections of their humanity, members of functional teams overcome the natural tendencies that make teamwork so elusive. n

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F O O D S E R V I C E I D E A S & I N S P I R AT I O N

THE HEIRLOOM TOMATO Try adding heirloom tomatoes to your menus in these unique recipes. Fresh basil and mozzarella with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic. This heirloom tomato salad is a sweet and flavorful surprise.

true heirloom plant comes from seeds that are passed down, plant to plant, through many generations. They are open pollinated (which means they are pollinated through nature, not by human intervention) and are well known for a natural resistance to pests and disease. These tomatoes offer alarmingly wonderful flavors and amazingly beautiful presentations. Every color has a different flavor profile! You may see several different descriptions of “heirlooms”: • Commercial Heirlooms are open pollinated varieties introduced before 1940 or tomato varieties that are more than 50 years old. • Family Heirlooms are exactly that, seeds that are passed down generation to generation within a farm family. • Mystery Heirlooms are natural products of the cross pollination of two different heirloom varieties. When purchasing heirloom items, think about wine. Each and every variety is genetically (naturally) different, not unlike different wines from different vineyards. Each year the tomatoes may be affected by different weather patterns and mature in different ways. Think how a cabernet from one year’s harvest could taste completely different from another year’s harvest. So one heirloom tomato mostly likely will taste different from another heirloom tomato. As a rule, the darker the tomato, the higher the sugar content. Tomato tasting will never be the same! Although tomatoes are the most commonly sold and consumed heirloom plant, heirlooms are cultivated for many kinds of produce (ask our Fruit Department about heirloom oranges!). And they’re all beautiful to us! n

Red, yellow, brown, and orange heirloom tomatoes create a festive salsa with an unbelievable burst of flavor. Prepare a tart or omelet with burst heirloom cherry tomatoes, organic eggs, sprouts, or micro-greens, and fresh cracked pepper.

For an interesting spin on bruschetta, use multiple colors of heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and feta. Top off a gourmet pizza with a pattern of contrasting heirloom tomatoes. Finish off these strong flavors with fresh oregano, basil and ricotta.

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Chef

Freds’ CORNER

For more of Chef Fred’s Recipes visit anthonymarano.com/recipes

The beautiful colors and vibrant flavors of the heirloom tomato take center stage in this mouthwatering salad. Because of the nature and shape of heirloom tomatoes, take special note of cutting when preparing this salad. Easily slice round tomatoes and cut chunks of odd shaped tomatoes. Have fun with the presentation!

Chef Fred’s R E C I P E S

Heirloom Tomato Salad

Ingredients 1 medium sized heirloom tomato for each serving of salad TIP CHEF TIP

– Keep tomatoes at room temperature, chilling tomatoes can affect their flavor.

¼ of a medium sized sweet onion for every 3-4 tomatoes, cut into very thin slices to taste 1 ounce of arugula for every 3-4 tomatoes 1/8 cup (about an ounce) blue cheese

thyme infused honey This is easy to make. Use approximately 1 sprig of thyme to 1 tbs of honey and warm in a pot until it boils. Immediately remove from heat. The more “thyme” you add, and the more “time” you let the mixture steep, the deeper the herb flavor.

extra virgin olive oil, to taste

honey

sherry vinegar, to taste

thyme

sea salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste

directions 1. Prep tomatoes by slicing and dicing (depending on tomato shape) and mix in oil and vinegar (use 2 parts oil to 1 part vinegar), enough to coat tomatoes and let sit for at least 10 minutes. 2. Prep blue cheese by bringing to room temperature and drizzling with the thyme infused honey.

Now, be artistic! Have fun and assemble the salad based on your personal tastes. Combine tomatoes and onion, and toss with arugula in the same bowl. Plate and sprinkle with blue cheese mixture, and add salt and pepper to taste.

30 | Sourced —— october 2021 30 | Sourced | august | august october 2021

Chef Fred’s R E C I P E S

Grape, Gorgonzola and Pistachio Truffle Makes 2 dozen truffles

ingredients 24 seedless red grapes, pitted 1 cup gorgonzola cheese, lightly whipped 2 cups shelled pistachios, toasted and chopped (medium to fine)

directions

CHEF TIP

I like to use a light coating of cheese for this dish, but if you’re a big gorgonzola fan, have at it and use as much as you’d like! Keep in mind, these appetizers/snacks are best as one biters, so don’t make them too crazy big.

Assembly is easy peasy, lemon squeezy. Simply coat each grape in gorgonzola and roll in pistachios. Shape into little balls and voilà! Grape truffles.

Fresh Corn Slaw ingredients 15 ears of corn, shucked and cut from cob 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced 1 bunch of scallions, sliced (both white and green parts of the plant) 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped 1 small cucumber, seeded, peeled, and diced 1 tbsp fresh horseradish 1 cup mayonnaise ¼ cup white vinegar 1/8 cup sugar salt and pepper to taste

directions Mix mayo, vinegar, sugar, and horseradish for dressing. Toss fresh, uncooked veggies in dressing and serve as an unexpected twist on a traditional coleslaw side.

KNOWLEDGE | CHEF FRED’S CORNER | 31

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Chef Fred’s R E C I P E S

Watermelon Gazpacho ingredients 1 large seedless watermelon, scooped and cut 2 sweet onions, sliced 2 jalapeno peppers, sliced and seeded 4 ancho chilies, seeds removed and toasted ½ to 1 cup fresh lime juice ½ cup honey 1 cup silver tequila 1 clove garlic, minced salt to taste

directions 1. Sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeno until translucent. 2. Add one ancho, ½ of t he lime juice, honey, and tequila. 3. Reduce slightly. 4. Let cool briefly, then puree in a food processor) with the watermelon. 5. Strain through a chinois or other fine sieve. 6. Wrap remaining anchos in a cheesecloth and steep for an hour (minimum) to overnight. The longer it steeps, the smokier the flavor. 7. Let cool. Remove wrapped anchos and adjust seasoning with salt and remaining lime juice. 8. Serve chilled with diced melon and fresh chopped chilies.

Poached Cherry and Roasted Peach Sundae ingredients 4 yellow or white stone free peaches 1 lb sweet, red cherries, pitted and stemmed

directions 1. Cut peaches into eighths, toss in a bowl with butter, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. Place on lined sheet pan and bake at 350° F for about 10 minutes or until peaches start to roast and turn a slight caramel color.

3 cups sweet, red wine For this recipe, although I prefer to keep cherries whole, you can also choose to cut in half.

1 cup sugar 1 cup mascarpone cheese ¼ cup melted butter 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tbs powdered sugar 1 tbs brown sugar cinnamon stick pinch of Salt toasted almonds (or any other kind of nut you like!)

2. Add wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, and vanilla extract to a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and add cherries, poach for 10 minutes. Remove cherries and cinnamon stick. Simmer and reduce liquid by half. Cool syrup and add back cherries. 3. Whip mascarpone cheese and powdered sugar together until mixture has soft peaks.

ASSEMBLY Top vanilla ice cream with warmed peaches and cherries. Add a dollop of mascarpone and sprinkle with toasted nuts.

Anthony Marano started AMC in 1947 to provide our employees and their families better life opportunities. This is the same company purpose we follow today. SEE PAGES 4-6