Roundy’s hosts “Love Your Local Farmer” dinner to recognize area farmers

Farmers in Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota play an integral role within Roundy’s in delivering fresh and locally sourced produce throughout the Midwest. On Thursday, January 22, 2015, to celebrate its 2014 achievements, Roundy’s invited a number of the farmers that bring fresh fruits and vegetables to their stores at the Italian Conference Center. Ben Brancel, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) was in attendance, as was Roundy’s chairman, president and CEO Robert Mariano. Highlights of the event included Steve Jarzombek, Vice President of Produce Merchandising for Roundy’s who recognized selected farmers for their excellent work in 2014; a cocktail hour, and dinner featuring produce from many of the local farmers honored at the event. Pictured at the event are (from left) Roundy’s chairman, president and CEO Robert Mariano (a.k.a “Chairman Bob”), local urban farmer Will Allen, and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Secretary Ben Brancel.