Spirit Magazine | Summer 2021 | The United Family by The United Family

SUMMER 2021

“...then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and intent on one purpose” PHILIPPIANS 2:2

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LEADERSHIP TEAM Sidney Hopper President Chris James Chief Operating Officer Tony Crumpton Chief Merchandising Officer Mandy Tomlin Chief Financial Officer Greg Ammons EVP, Distribution Center Team & Strategic Initiatives Shannon Miller EVP, Talent Management Chris St. Clair EVP, Information Technology

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Robert Taylor EVP, Senior Advisor

MANAGING EDITORS Nancy Sharp Corporate Engagement Director Joey Marcades Communication Coordinator

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Bridget Saucedo Kaitlyn Logsdon Skylar Cunningham Ben Weber

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Joey Marcades Communications Coordinator Emma Spoon Marketing Intern Doug Hensley Freelance Writer Janice Hayes Freelance Writer Taylor Sutton, MS, RDN, LD Health And Wellness Manager

PRINTING ColorArt, Amarillo, TX The Marketing and Communications teams publish Spirit Magazine for team members, friends and families of The United Family. Do you have an idea for a Spirit blog or magazine story? We love sharing the greatness of our team members. If you have an interesting story, please email SpiritFlash@UnitedTexas.com. We would love to hear from you!

A PUBLICATION ABOUT THE UNITED FAMILY

SUMMER 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LEADING US INTO THE FUTURE with Sidney Hopper

NEW STORE PREVIEW

DECADES DEDICATED TO SERVICE

TEAM MEMBERS SHINE DURING WINTER BLAST

RECOGNIZING A MOMENTOUS OCCASION

RUNNING FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

25 TWO INGREDIENT WATERMELON GELATO

LOOK WHAT WE CAN DO, BECAUSE OF YOU

QUICK THINKING SAVES THE DAY

SISTERS, TEAM MEMBERS, DIFFERENCE MAKERS

20 22

AVOCADO SHRIMP CEVICHE

TEAM MEMBER IMPACTS THOUSANDS WITH VACCINE CLINICS

RAVE ON: A NEW CHAPTER FOR THE UNITED FAMILY

GROW AT UNITED

ARE YOU TAKING ADVANTAGE OF YOUR TEAM MEMBER BENEFITS?

RIGHT NOW MEDIA

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSES

STREETSIDE: READY AND WILLING TO HELP

DON’T FORGET THE STAMPS!

SIDNEY HOPPER Leading Us Into The Future

With more than 35 years of grocery experience under his belt, Sidney Hopper assumed the position of president for The United Family in October of 2018. It was a homecoming for Hopper since he originally joined the company in 1980 as a sacker. When former CEO Robert Taylor retired from his position earlier this year and the CEO title was retired as well, Hopper assumed all of those leadership responsibilities. A Lubbock-area native, Hopper had rapidly moved through the United ranks to manage stores in Amarillo, Vernon and Lubbock. He eventually served as the regional vice-president for the Amarillo region before being promoted to the role of Chief Operating Officer. In 2014, he was tapped to serve as president of Randalls Supermarkets in Houston, where he remained until returning home to The United Family in 2018. He is married to Marcie Hopper and together they have four daughters and eight grandchildren.

Q &A

Here is a brief Q&A with Sidney Hopper:

What does the mission statement mean to you? Hopper said the company’s mission statement rings just as true with him today as it did back when it was created. He said it is clear what we want to be known for. Six words: Ultimate Service. Superior Performance. Positive Impact.

every day in our stores, distribution center and manufacturing operations.” Just how Ultimate Service feeds into Positive Impact, Hopper says both of those feed into the final aspect of the mission statement — Superior Performance.

“The ‘superior performance’ part of the mission statement I really like because to me, it ties it all together,” Hopper said. “I think “Our legacy has been built on service for 105 years and that piece when you look at ‘superior performance’ with ‘ultimate service’ of it is extremely important to me,” Hopper said. “When I think of and ‘positive impact,’ it really gets to the heart of what we’re ‘ultimate service,’ it’s not just speaking to our guests in the stores known for. I know so many of our team members truly take pride and meeting their needs, it’s how we serve each other in terms of in that, as the identity of our company.” team members we’re working with at every level of the company.” When team members provide ultimate service, Hopper said he feels like that feeds into another part of the mission statement — positive impact. “Of course, the company is known for being involved in its communities,” Hopper said. “I think that gives our team members a sense of pride, knowing that we’re giving back to their communities. But, I think ‘positive impact’ isn’t just donating to the local charities or food banks, but it’s also what we do to make a positive impact on our guests and each other 4

Over the years, Hopper has been an active volunteer with organizations like Lions Club, Chambers of Commerce, United Way and March of Dimes. The grocery industry is more competitive than ever with guests using multiple outlets to meet their needs. For us to be successful we must perform at a high level and strive for “Ultimate Performance” in all we do. I have no doubt that our success is directly related to the talented team we have that routinely delivers “Superior Performance”

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What is your vision for the near future of The United Family? With the grocery store business remaining robust, Hopper said the priority is to ensure The United Family is keeping up with the growing industry. The last year has presented challenges unlike any other, but it also brought the company to a new year full of possibilities and learnings. “I’m very excited about the coming year,” Hopper said. “Obviously 2020 presented some unprecedented challenges, but when I look at the momentum we got coming out of it, I think there’s some incredible things we have ahead of us.” Hopper said goals for this upcoming year include focus on growth and growing market share, finding efficiencies that we can use to reinvest in the business, using technology as a tool to better do our jobs and reach our guests, continuing to invest in and grow our talent and lead our competition in innovation.

“The store looks different and feels different inside with offerings that we don’t have at other stores. We’ve also got Evie Mae’s barbecue in the store and they’re cooking on site. I’m really excited about it, I think it’s going to be a great store for us.” Any advice for team members? Hopper said he wants every team member to remember two things: be proud of the work you’re doing to serve our guests and communities and don’t limit your personal growth. “Number one, I hope that our team is very proud of the accomplishments they achieved this past year and the great work they do every day. I’m very proud of the things they’re doing,” he said. “Number two, don’t limit yourself. As our company has grown it offers many new and different opportunities. If there’s something you want to do in our company, speak up. Let us know what those ambitions are so that we can hopefully help guide you along that path!”

Part of innovation and growth means new stores. One of those new stores is the United Supermarkets which opened this summer in Southwest Lubbock. “I’m very excited about the new store in Lubbock, it’s what I call, ‘the Next Gen United,’” Hopper said.

The United Family is keeping up with the growing industry. The last year has presented challenges unlike any other, but it also brought the company to a new year full of possibilities.

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

On March 1, Robert Taylor stepped down from his position as chief executive officer with The United Family and passed his responsibilities to President Sidney Hopper. While he will still be a part of the team as executive vice president and senior advisor, his service at R.C. Taylor and The United Family has accumulated into quite the career. However, Taylor says he is excited for the transition and the time he will be able to take for family.

owned. Taylor excelled in preserving the family values as the company expanded beyond what anyone could have imagined. During his tenure as CEO, the footprint of the company more than doubled to 96 locations with a large expansion of its self-distribution center as well as the

“I have been working for, or with, this great company for 51 years,” Taylor said in a video released to team members. “And I am ready to have a little more flexible time to spend with my wife Jan and our kids and grandkids.” It all started in 1971 when Taylor began operating his father’s wholesale tobacco and candy business, R.C.Taylor Wholesale, after his father became seriously ill. The company flourished under his leadership in the following years. In 2007, Taylor sold R.C. Taylor Wholesale to one of his biggest customers, United Supermarkets. He would also take a position with United’s leadership team as vice president of logistics. Not long after in 2010, Taylor would be named CEO of United Supermarkets, which was subsequently purchased by Albertsons LLC in 2014. This was a big transition for a company who had never been anything but family

acquisition of a manufacturing facility and ice plant. Sidney Hopper, president of The United Family, said Taylor’s impact on The United Family has been immeasurable. “It is hard to quantify all Robert has brought to this company,” said Sidney Hopper, speaking of his friend and mentor. “Robert is an innovator, entrepreneur, and he invests in developing people and communities… There are few things that have happened

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in our company over the last 13 years that don’t carry Robert’s fingerprints. He is an ardent community supporter and models that value for all the leadership in stores and facilities across the 54 communities we serve.” In his new role with The United Family, Taylor will continue spearheading the United Food & Beverage Services. The newest venture of United Supermarkets was recently formed to provide banquet services, concessions, and operate the “Rave On” restaurant in Buddy Holly Hall, a $153 million privately-funded entertainment and education venue opening in Lubbock this month. He will continue to serve on the executive team with involvement in government relations, real estate, innovation and special projects. “You know I’ve been in this industry now really for over 50 years,” Taylor said in video to team members. “I’ve had a great career. It’s been a lot of fun and I plan on continuing that career and supporting Sidney Hopper as he leads United into the future. Thank you for all the memories.”

RUNNING FOR

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS by JOEY MARCADES

After battling multiple sclerosis since 2012, one man from San Angelo has decided to do something about it.

portion of the run will start on August 2 in Ohio and will finish six days later in Pennsylvania.

He’s going to run.

For more information or to make a donation, visit the following web address: www.runninggreatlywithms.com People can also follow Stein’s journey on Instagram at: running_greatly_with_ms

As part of America’s first and only cross-country relay run, he is taking on a 167-mile-long segment of a 3,260-mile-long journey — all to raise money and awareness for multiple sclerosis. Rich Stein, a produce manager for Market Street in San Angelo, said one day in 2012 he woke up blind in his right eye for no apparent reason. He said he spent the better part of a week in the hospital undergoing tests and treatments.

While people can contribute through monetary donations, they can also join Stein in completing his goal. Through the hometown challenge, people can set a goal to walk or run 160 miles over a six-week span to support Stein. Participants would begin June 5 and try to complete their miles by the time Stein begins his own trek in Ohio on August 2.

“I left the hospital facing a 30-minute drive home with only the vision of my left eye,” Stein said. “That, and a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, a disease of which I was completely unaware until just then. I had no idea what having multiple sclerosis would mean for the rest of my life.” After eight years of learning how to live life with a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, Stein said he had a hunger to push his body to its limits through running. That’s when he found MS Run the US. “MS Run the US is dedicated to raising awareness and funds to support multiple sclerosis research, and to aid those living with disability due to MS,” he said. “The Ultra-Relay Run is an annual event that selects 19 runners to each run 160-miles over 6 days; city by city, state by state across America.” Stein set a fundraising goal of $10,000 for MS research and a cure. His employer, Market Street and The United Family, donated $5,000 to his goal and created hats and shirts to be sold with all proceeds going toward Stein’s goal. Stein’s

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

by EMMA SPOON

Dedication, diligence and devotion; the three best words to describe team members of The United Family. With 2020 being a year of inconvenience, some longtime team members had to postpone their chance to be celebrated and recognized for their remarkable careers with The United Family. For most companies, it’s not a regular occurrence to have more than just a few team members who sustain a 30-to 40-year career with the same employer; however, within The United Family, that isn’t the case. The company is more than proud to announce and share the many names of the hardworking team members who have put in endless hours, ongoing loyalty and effort for the last 30 to 40 years. With six different geographic regions, it is amazing to see the names of team members from all over Texas and New Mexico being celebrated for their 30-and 40-year team member anniversaries.

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JAMES BERNAL GARY BITTIKER CHRIS BRICKEY KIM BRICKEY MIKE BROWNE MINGO BUSTOS MARIA COLLINS TONY CRUMPTON SHANE DAVENPORT DELORES DE LA ROSA JOSEPH DELGADO PIPER DOCKINS JASON D’ONOFRIO DEBBIE DURAN ERNEST ESPINOZA JESSE FLORES JOE FUENTES LEONEL GARCIA LORI GARCIA CYNTHIA GONZALES TRACEY HAMILTON CAROL KUSAK

ATENOGENES ARROYO KEITH BRADLEY IRIS CULPEPPER GREG DEMPSEY RAYMOND GARZA CIRBY GILL TIMOTHY HARTENBERGER ANDY HULETT FRANK MCBRIDE MARLA MILLS ROY MOUROT RUBEN PADILLA

ANDREW LOPEZ LARRY LUCERO CHRISTINE LUJAN DALE MCCUTCHEN RENEE MONTOYA TED MURPHY TROY NEWTON DEBRA NUANES SUSANNE PARNELL NORMA PENA PAMELA RHIGER MARY RIOJAS KEVIN RITCHIE ARNOLD ROLEN CHRISTINA SCHABER CYNDY SCHENK DANIEL SZUCH TINA WARREN SHARI ZALOSKI

ROBERT C. TAYLOR

The United Family is honored to recognize these friends who have worked their way to such a significant milestone.

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

O ND

LOO K

W T A E CA H W

BECAUSE OF YOU by JOEY MARCADES

It may not always seem like it in the day-to-day sometimes, but team members with The United Family are making a difference each day by doing what they do. This company is committed to the betterment of every community it serves — that includes yours! That’s why The United Family gives back more than $2 million annually to its communities through stores and corporate giving. Sometimes, it comes in the form of food donations to food banks or maybe it’s a check presentation from the latest scan tag fundraiser. It could even be a donation of cots and water to a shelter during a historic snow storm. No matter what it is, it is all because of you! The United Family could not do what it does without the hard work and dedication from team members each day. Here is a brief look at just some of the things that the company has done over the past few months thanks to work of every team member!

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DONATED A DOLLAR TO LOCAL FOODBANKS FOR EACH FLU SHOT GIVEN IN DECEMBER

HOSTED JARRETT CULVER NIGHT BENEFITING SOUTH PLAINS FOOD BANK IN LUBBOCK

U CAN SHARE FUNDRAISER IN DFW

PEARS FOR PAIRS DONATIONS

HEALTHCARE WORKER FLOWER DONATIONS IN NM

FED 3,800 FRONTLINE MEDICAL WORKERS IN LUBBOCK

HORMEL HAMS DONATIONS

$75,000 TO ALSTRÖM ANGELS PLAYPARK

AUTISM AWARENESS FUNDRAISER

$10,000 TO MANSFIELD MISSION

TAKE A BITE OUT OF HUNGER

NEW MEXICO FOOD BANK FUNDRAISER

CHILDREN’S HEALTH FUNDRAISER

TEACHER/NURSES APPRECIATION DAY

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

At the beginning of all of this, Bassan said he initially teamed up with the New Mexico Department of Aging and Long-Term Services to help reach the rural, disabled and elderly populations. He said he saw this as chance to use the skills he already had to help people. “I was already in charge of doing off-site vaccinations for the company,” Bassan said. “I had those skills when the pandemic started. I was confident I could use my knowledge and skills to help contribute to the distribution of the vaccines for COVID-19.” by JOEY MARCADES When people look back on 2020, they will inevitably think of how COVID-19 shut down life as they knew it. However, when people think of 2021, maybe they will think about the vaccines that helped get life back to normal and those who answered the call to administer them. Uri Bassan, the pharmacy manager for Albertsons Market #917, is one of the many pharmacy team members who joined the ranks of thousands of healthcare workers and volunteers who helped get shots into arms across the country.

Bassan said he eventually got connected with the New Mexico Medical Reserve Corp. This was comprised of healthcare workers who were retired, but still in good standing and could assist with vaccine distribution. He said it got to a point where a lot of those volunteers loved working with him so they would specifically seek out his clinics for work. He even helped vaccinate almost 850 people on his own birthday. He said it was amazing to see everyone come together for a common cause and he hopes that everyone can continue that going forward.

With the help of volunteers, Bassan and his team administered more than 35,000 vaccines in the state of New Mexico over a 6-month period. This includes 95 stops in cities across 18,000 miles of travel with shots being administered at 19 skilled nursing facilities, 64 assisted living facilities, 65 senior centers and 52 home bound patients. They also did clinics in stadiums, homeless shelters and at the U.S.-Mexico border. “Most of our events were outdoor drive-thru clinics which exposed us to the elements: blizzards, rain, cold, heat waves, sun burns, and strong winds,” Bassan said. “The volunteers soldiered on through the hardships and we kept on vaccinating.” 12

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On the recommendation of state government officials, KRQE, in partnership with Taco Cabana, are recognizing Bassan and his team for all of their vital work over the last few months. Bassan said he is so thankful to for all of the support from Pete Ridsdale and Tim Purser as well as the company as a whole. He said it truly seems like he had the opportunity to serve his purpose on this Earth. “Doing vaccine clinics is what I already did and all of a sudden everyone needed a vaccine,” Bassan said. “Doing this helped thousands of people. And I know it may sound cheesy, but I really feel like I fulfilled my destiny, my purpose.”

Doing this helped thousands of people. And I know it may sound cheesy, but I really feel like I fulfilled my destiny, my purpose.

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

QUICK THINKING saves the day by DOUG HENSLEY

The littlest decisions can sometimes make the biggest difference – like heading home earlier than originally planned. That’s what Madelyn Radabaugh, a Team Member at #562 (Market Street, Frisco), decided on a stormy February night. The weather was unpleasant, and rather than hanging out with friends, as she might typically do, she headed home. “Actually, I wanted to stay out later that night,” said Radabaugh, who has been with Market Street for three years, starting as a sacker and now splitting time between the service counter and bookkeeping. “My boyfriend didn’t want me out in the rain and wanted me to go home. I assumed there was no point being out.” On her way home, she noticed a home in her neighborhood, which is right between Frisco and Little Elm, on fire. Then she realized it was the home of a fellow Team Member, Isabella Chambers. From there, quick thinking literally saved the day.

“It was like everything happened so fast, and it was very scary,” said Chambers, a cashier who has been with Market Street for two years. “It was also very surprising because at first, I had no idea what was happening. I think that if Maddie hadn’t come by and said something, the situation would have ended up a lot worse.” A line of fierce thunderstorms was wreaking havoc on the Metroplex that night, and a lightning strike ignited the roof of Isabella’s home, where she was with her mother, brother and pet dog. “Her house is near mine,” Radabaugh said. “I see it every time I’m coming in from work. When I turned on the street of our neighborhood, I saw fire from a house. At first, I thought it was the one next to hers, but it was hers. I started freaking out.” The initial shock was replaced by a calm response. Despite rain and lightning and everything else going on, she initially started trying to call Chambers’ phone. After several attempts, she was successful. Chambers’ mother had not met Radabaugh who by now had

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reached the front door and was telling everyone inside about the fire. “I’m sure she probably thought I was calling about work at first, but I told her what I saw, that her house was on fire,” Radabaugh said. “She told me afterward she thought it was hail because of the crackling sound and not fire.” Typical Texas thunderstorms often produce significant hail, but that wasn’t the case in this instance. “I’ve wondered since then if I would have seen the fire in the house or on the ceiling,” Chambers said. “It was in our attic. That’s where it started. It was storming so bad; we just thought that crackling was the sound of hail hitting, but it was actually the fire. I think eventually I would have smelled it. I’ve never been in a situation like that before.” In the meantime, Radabaugh, whose stepfather is a firefighter, had also called 911. Flames were now plainly visible and other neighbors had gotten involved, checking on Chambers’ family and making sure everyone was out of the house.

“It was a deal where I was in the moment more than anything,” she said. “Normally, I don’t come home that early. I hang out with my friends or my boyfriend after work, so it was weird for me to come home at that time anyway. Then once I saw what was happening, there wasn’t any real thought process. It was a lot of reaction.” The fire department arrived, and everyone was OK, thanks to Radabaugh. Unfortunately, the house was a loss. Even after the blaze was initially extinguished, Chambers said, it reignited four more times. “We pretty much lost everything,” Chambers said. “After the first time, there was a lot of water damage from putting it out, but then it caught fire again the next morning, and after that one, everything inside was pretty much totally gone.” Radabaugh’s heroism was noticed and reported in local media. She said her mother was contacted by a member of the Little Elm City Council and Radabaugh was recognized during a town hall meeting. She also was recognized by the local fire chief. All

the attention was something of a surprise. “I’m not very outgoing,” she said. “It was crazy to be on the news and watch myself.” Now, here’s the rest of the story. The store team rallied around the Chambers family as it raised money and provided other gifts to help them following this loss. “We stayed in a hotel for about a month and now we’re in a townhouse right down the street from our old house,” she said. “We’re going to stay there until we can rebuild. I’ve gotten a lot of support. The store had a deal where people donated money to me and my family. Everyone has been so sweet and so caring about the situation.” That comes as no surprise to anyone who’s spent any time at all around the special culture of a Market Street store and the bonds of friendship created there. “One thing I was raised on during going on 31 years with the company, it’s all about family,” said Jason D’Onofrio, the Frisco store director. “I’ve tried to

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

instill that in my team, and it is just so awesome to see this kind of stuff. Kids today, it’s a different generation and all, but they still have that family and that care inside of them.” D’Onofrio, who has been a store director for almost 17 years now, said that family feel is part of what makes working at Market Street special. “I think there’s a line of thinking that it’s different in Dallas, and that’s true in many ways, but when it comes to the big hearts of people, to family, to caring about one another, it’s still there, and it’s no different than anywhere else,” he said. “When it comes to that culture of caring for each other, it’s still there.” And it all was set in motion by one person making one decision to go home a little earlier than usual. “When I got home and the whole thing had ended, I was talking to my mom,” Radabaugh said. “She was amazed by it. I was calm about everything, but now that I look back on it, it’s kind of crazy to think what if I hadn’t gone home that night at that time. It was all a matter of right time and right place.”

I don’t know if there’s another job in the world like this where I could leave in the middle of the day to hang out with strangers and take bags of products to them

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SISTERS, TEAM MEMBERS, DIFFERENCE MAKERS by DOUG HENSLEY

Even in the middle of a pandemic, few things are as contagious as enthusiasm and kindness. Just ask Team Members at #547 (Willis Street, Abilene), where what began as one person and her sister reaching out to help others slowly and steadily blossomed into virtually an entire store of people doing not just what they could, but all they could. “There’s no way I would have been able to do anything without the full support of people around me,” Lacey Williams Jones, the store’s bakery manager, said. “The store director, coworkers, team. It was amazing having a team like that.” The story began last November, when the pastor at Jones’ church was no longer able to deliver goods from the store to residents of two nearby apartment complexes. As is the case with most United locations, the store donates its unsold, day-old items from the meat market, produce and bakery rather than throw them away. Unfortunately, the pastor had health challenges (unrelated to the pandemic) and had to step away from many obligations. Then, another person involved in delivering the goods to residents also had to step down. As it turned out, this all happened around the Thanksgiving holiday, traditionally one of the busiest days of the year for United’s stores. “It was the day after Thanksgiving, and we had all of this massive stuff left over, and I couldn’t bring myself to throw it away, so I called my sister,” Jones said. “Eventually, we took it to the apartments in the neighborhood, knocked on doors, and there were really two specific complexes where the people could use the help, and we spend a lot of time with them.” Jones said delivering the food was a great way to build relationships with people, and for her, it marked the start of regular trips to the complexes. Remember, all of this is going on despite the challenges of COVID-19. “Really, what happened, is Lacey and her sister, they were helping their church ministry,” Victoria Hernandez, the store director, said. “When the minister couldn’t do it because of health issues, they picked up the slack and started doing it.” For Jones, it was an opportunity to put her faith into action. For Team Members at United, it was also a demonstration of what the people inside its stores do best – meet the needs of Guests in ways that exceed expectations.

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

“I like to think we are a neighborhood store,” said Hernandez, who will mark four years as #547 store director in July. “We have a lot of regular Guests, some who come in every day. We know them and they know us.” That familiarity would become even more important in February, when a fire ripped through one of the two apartment complexes, leaving numerous residents homeless. “These people really didn’t have anything,” Jones said. “I just asked what I could do to help. I still remember after the fire was out, they were letting folks in a few at a time to see if they could recover anything, but nothing was salvageable. They didn’t have anything, and it just broke my heart.” Jones told Hernandez about the need, and the store team swung into action, putting together care packages of food and hygiene products and doing whatever they could to help residents through an extremely difficult time. “A lot of Team Members got involved when the fire hit,” Hernandez said. “There have been Team Members working on it throughout. Lacey buys them meat out of her own pocket to help make sure they have a meal plan, not just random food, and delivers every day.” Personnel throughout the store have gotten involved in the effort, donating money and assisting in ways large

and small. “It’s the right thing to do,” Hernandez said. “And when someone gets involved like Lacey has, it’s contagious. It also helps you be humble about what you have and willing to give and sacrifice for others.” The fire occurred during the stretch of weather that hammered the state in February, bringing snow, ice and single-digits temperatures for days. “It was incredibly cold,” Hernandez said. “It was a bad situation, and people suddenly were without a home. Some of them didn’t even have a jacket, and I know Lacey gave away the jacket off her back one day. That inspired the rest of us to go through our closets. We found jackets we didn’t need as badly. Everyone was so grateful; people cared.” Jones has downplayed her role as a one-person nonprofit agency, deflecting credit to others and expressing gratitude for being in a position to organize assistance. “I didn’t do anything really except communicate with people,” said Jones, who rejoined United in 2017. “All I did was middleman stuff. Everyone else chipped in, including strangers. Almost all of them have new homes now, and it’s been cool to have them come in the store and tell us about it.” In fact, one couple got married, and the store team was part of the celebration in United’s own way,

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providing a wedding cake and flowers for the milestone moment. “I don’t know if there’s another job in the world like this where I could leave in the middle of the day to hang out with strangers and take bags of products to them,” Jones said. “I’m really lucky to be in a store, this store specifically, that carries a lot of that family feeling and is very connected to the community.” Neighborhood connections such as this has long been part of the heartbeat of United Supermarkets. “Team Members volunteered money, time, really, the whole store helped out because they were touched by how Lacey was touched,” Hernandez said. “This exemplifies what United is all about, and what people should be about because so much was done under the radar. No one wanted attention or anything for it. That’s the best kind of giving.” Jones couldn’t agree more. “A lot of people might go their whole life and miss out on something they are supposed to be doing,” Jones said. “I want to help or be in ministry that means something. This feels like what I’m supposed to do, something completely intended for my life.”

Everything s Coming Up ’

R O S E S BY JANICE HAYES

Wedding Anniversaries are special days to celebrate the road a couple has traversed together, the memories they have made, the obstacles they have overcome and the love that bonds them. Putting together pretty petals for couples celebrating their anniversaries is one of the things Carol Thomas, floral manager at #529 United Supermarkets in Amarillo, looks forward to. So when a guest arrived requesting an order he had placed for a dozen red roses for his anniversary and she could not find a record of it, she wasn’t going to let the mix-up spoil his special day. Carol used her creativity and customer service acumen to create a beautiful bouquet to commemorate the blessed union. The guest left the store smiling and Carol was pleased to play a small role in helping him celebrate his important milestone. “It’s all about putting a smile on someone’s face,” said Thomas, who has worked in the floral department at United for 18 years. “I could tell he was about to panic, he was worried he wasn’t going to have a bouquet for his bride, so I told him, hon, if you just wait a few minutes I will whip up an arrangement and have you on your way.” And, that’s exactly what she did. Carol’s can do attitude comes as no surprise to Assistant Store Director, Brennen Chapparo, who has worked with her for 13 years.

“Carol brings her energy, positive attitude and creativity to work every day,” said Chapparo, who has been a part of The United Family for 19 years. “Carol is definitely a people person and any time she can brighten someone’s day she is going to do it.” Krystle Brown, who has worked with Carol in the floral department for the past 2 years, says she is not only great with guests, she mentors and nurtures those that work for her and with her. “I couldn’t ask for a better person to learn from,” said Brown. “She really knows what she is doing and she enjoys what she does and it shows. She loves flowers and plants and she is a people person so she is right where she belongs.” Later that day when the guest arrived home with a dozen ruby red roses courtesy of Carol, he received a call from a team member at the Market Street United store on Georgia Street saying his flowers were ready. It was then the guest realized he had inadvertently placed the order at the Georgia Street location and gone to the 45th Street store to pick them up. He apologized profusely, explaining his mistake to the United team member, who told him not to worry one little bit. She then wished him a happy anniversary and gladly put the bouquet aside for the next guest. After all, when it comes to customer service, every guest is a priority and every day is a special occasion at United.

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

CHECK OUT

STREET SIDE: READY AND WILLING TO HELP by JANICE HAYES

SERVICE | IMPACT | PERFORMANCE | PEOPLE

The pandemic has changed all of our lives in so many ways. It has changed the way we work, the way we socialize and the way we shop. As the team lead for Streetside #537 United Supermarkets in Lubbock, Rina Tenorio knows that those who are shopping online are relying on her to get what is on their lists and have it waiting for them when they pull into the parking lot to pick it up. “I know that our guests are relying on me for the food and essentials they need for themselves and their families, so I treat their orders like I would my grandmother’s,” says the South Texas native who joined United less than a year ago. “ I strive to give every single guest the care and attention they deserve,” she continued. “I try to lead by example and I tell my team to do the same. We take a lot of pride in what we do. We want our guests to have the same personal, professional and positive experience they would have if they were coming into the store.” For Rina and her team that means tracking down requests, calling guests to inform them if items on their shopping lists aren’t available and making sure they understand their options and approve them. It also means making sure guests are aware of special promotions and rewards to ensure they are getting the best value and products for themselves and their families. Recently Rina’s guest first commitment garnered her a glowing compliment from a guest who was so impressed with her, she took the time to give her a well deserved shout out. The guest wrote: “I would like for Rina at 82nd and Boston in Lubbock to be acknowledged for her impeccable customer service and attention to details when I called the store to give my new credit card info when the site acted up a bit at checkout which did not upset me one bit, so I was definitely not irritated at all having to call so Rina should not have felt any obligation to be SO super nice as she was. Not only was Rina exceptionally professional at her job she also went out of her way making sure my gasoline reward points will show upon receipt and called me a few minutes later to ask if (a) substitute for a certain item was okay (it was!) and also informed me the bananas on my list would be free when she noticed I also was not able to click (the) offer to claim reward points I am used to outstanding service with your stores since 1979 but she stands out. I also want to thank United for the curbside pick-up option. Be blessed, take care, and be well.” Rina, who is an admitted people pleaser, says making guests’ lives better and coaching her team is what she loves about her job. “It doesn’t feel like a job, it feels more like a calling,” says Rina. “I work with wonderful people who embrace the same values and our guests are amazing, too.” Annika Garcia, who is one of eight team members on Rina’s team, says it is Rina who is amazing. “She is a really good leader,” says Garcia. “She takes great care of our guests and everyone who works with her. She is always positive and kind. She is one of the best managers I have ever had.” Rina’s store director at the time, Micky Bridgers, couldn’t agree more. “Rina is a natural at dealing with people and she is a detail fanatic,” says Bridgers, who is also a big fan of Rina’s. “She is a problem solver who thinks on her feet and always puts people first. She is a great employee and a great team member. I wish I had 150 just like her.” Bridgers who has been with the company for 35 years says he knows a winner when he sees one. “Rina has a bright future with the company,” he says. “She lives the values every day. She is the embodiment of what we stand for.” SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

t e g r o F Don'tStamps th e E by JANIC

Store Director Dustin Kile gets great satisfaction from motivating and recognizing team members in his store, #530 United Supermarkets. He prefers to lead and inspire others, rather than being the one in the limelight. But his professionalism and customer-first approach put him on center stage recently when a guest gushed over the way he handled her predicament. She had been in the store on Soncy in Amarillo and purchased a number of items, including a $55 roll of stamps. She and the cashier got to talking and they both forgot about the stamps. The guest didn’t realize she didn’t have the stamps she had paid for until a couple of days later. That is when she called the store and Dustin happily tracked down her stamps. “That is what we are here for - to solve problems and satisfy customers,” said Dustin. “I don’t expect any special recognition, I was just doing my job,” said the 25-year United veteran. “If you don’t love people and love making them happy, then you are in the wrong business.”

HAYES

But, what is all in a day’s work for Dustin and his team members meant a lot to the guest who was going through a difficult time. The guest took the time to compliment Dustin for the help he provided her. “You never know what people are coping with, so you have to treat everyone with dignity and respect and that is what we do. “ said Dustin. “I would like to think anyone in the store would have handled it the same way. I always tell my team members, ‘yours might be the only kind word or smile someone receives on any given day.’ When you go out of your way to make people happy. It makes everyone feel better.” As for the customer getting separated from her stamps, Dustin says it happens more often than you think. “People are tired, they are distracted or they get to talking to the clerk and forget something. It might be a can of green beans or a loaf of bread. This time it was a big ticket item. Whatever it is, our goal is to reunite our guests with their items so they can get on with their lives.”

SERVICE | IMPACT | PERFORMANCE | PEOPLE

To start your order, visit MarketStreetUnited.com, UnitedSupermarkets.com or AlbertsonsMarket.com SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

NEXT GEN UNITED 12th STORE OPENS IN LUBBOCK

by JOEY MARCADES Last October, The United Family broke ground on the newest store for the company in Lubbock, Texas.

well as a full-service bakery, floral department, meat counter and more.

Now, less than a year later, the 97th store for The United Family has opened its doors. This new store showcases the latest innovations that the company has to offer. It will be the twelfth store for the company in the Lubbock community.

With Lubbock already being home to over 4,000 team members, this location will hopefully add around 200 people to The United Family.

Residing in the Southwest part of Lubbock, the new store is being billed as the “next generation” store for the United Supermarkets banner. The amenities will include: fresh, in-house Evie Mae’s Barbecue; a Tap House with craft beer and wine; a Chopsticks Noodle Bar and Sushi Bar; Texas Take-out; Starbuck’s; Streetside grocery pickup, delivery; as

Be sure to look out for a more in-depth article on the new store in the Winter edition of Spirit Magazine coming late 2021/early 2022.

THIS IS THE 97TH STORE FOR THE UNITED FAMILY

SERVICE | IMPACT | PERFORMANCE | PEOPLE

TWO INGREDIENT

watermelon gelato BY TAYLOR SUTTON, MS, RDN, LD

This recipe is a simple and fast summertime treat perfect for a hot day. This two-ingredient gelato is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! Watermelon is not just a juicy, delicious, refreshing snack, meal-maker, ingredient or summertime celebrity! It is an allyear-round, naturally-nutritious pick in almost any situation. Each slice, ball or bite delivers vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytonutrients. Two cups of watermelon has 80 calories, no fat, vitamin A (8%), B6 (6%) and C (25%), potassium (6%), magnesium (6%), thiamin (8%), phosphorus (2%). Pretty amazing, right?

Did you know that Watermelon can be considered a fruit or a vegetable? No matter which way you slice it, watermelon is versatile, healthy and conveniently available year-round but most delectable in Texas in the summertime. Paired with the bananas, which you can’t really taste with the powerful watermelon flavor, you’re in for a summertime “nice-cream”! This two-ingredient gelato is a simple and fast summertime treat, perfect for the heat of the afternoon. With no added sugar, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth all for a 100 calorie serving.

ALL INGREDIENTS INTO A BLENDER AND BLEND UNTIL SMOOTH how it’s •• COMBINE FREEZE FOR 4 HOURS AND SERVE made: • SERVES 4 SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

TEAM MEMBERS

SHINE during Winter Blast by DOUG HENSLEY

When a brutal winter storm moved into Texas and then refused to leave for the better part of a week, it was just the latest challenge for United Supermarkets and its thousands of Team Members.

The weather pummeled the entire state, bringing snow, ice, singledigit temperatures and wind chills not seen in three decades, but United’s store teams, distribution center and other business units figured out a way to do what the company does best – serve Guests. “The thing about our team that’s really amazing is that when events like this happen, you don’t have to rally the troops,” United Family Division President Sidney Hopper said. “It’s practically second nature for our team to work together, find solutions and serve our guests. It’s hard to say this was the biggest challenge in light of the pandemic, but outside of that, it certainly had a huge impact across the company.” Two winter storms days apart devastated the state before it was all said and done. There were a variety of impacts as a result. First, because forecasts accurately predicted what would happen days ahead of time, United’s stores saw 26

significant sales volume. Second, the freezing conditions led to deteriorating road conditions and disrupted the supply chain, taking other grocers throughout the state off line and putting even more pressure on the United team to fill the void.

“The good thing for us is we never missed a truck, and we only had one store that had its power down for 12 hours, then came back up and was good the rest of the time,” said John Jameson, regional vice president for the MidlandOdessa region. “It was limited impact from a store standpoint, but where we got hammered was our competitors in the market weren’t getting trucks so they were basically empty and we were getting clobbered.” There were a lot of heroes to emerge during the February siege of winter weather, including the transportation team at Llano Logistics, the distribution center that serves as the company heartbeat in terms of providing timely delivery of merchandise to keep the store teams ahead of the extended demand.

SERVICE | IMPACT | PERFORMANCE | PEOPLE

“Our truck drivers were awesome,” Cash Eagan, vice president and general manager of Llano, said. “They missed no work and they drove in some terrible conditions. They made it happen. There were no absences and what a tough job to do, hauling 80,000 pounds on icy and snowy roads. They were the backbone of our being able to serve communities.” Actually, that’s what it all boiled down to, the company’s commitment to do whatever it takes to serve Guests. Team Members across the board once again stepped up and simply got the job done.

“I was just so proud of the team,” Jameson said. “They made it into work. It was kind of weird in a way because we felt like the pandemic was happening again. Usually, here, we get a cold front, and it’s gone in a day or two. This one just hung around, and we’d just come through the pandemic.” Of course, the bitter cold was only part of the story. The electricity grid that serves approximately 90 percent of the state, failed in the face of peak demand and millions of people were without power for

You look back at that, and there were a lot of reasons to call in and not come to work,” Hopper said. “But our people didn’t do that. They showed up and took care of Guests. It just goes back to the pride of the team. It goes back to our mission statement of Ultimate Service, Superior Performance and Positive Impact. I think our team really answered the call in all three of those areas.”

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

days. Compounding that misery was the power outage also resulted in communities such as Abilene losing access to their water supply for four days. “That morning I came in and knew we couldn’t open the deli without water,” said Ricky Espinoza, food service manager at #548 (Abilene, S. 14th Street). “At that point in time, my team spread out into the store and started helping wherever needed. I was personally thanked by so many Guests about how United and Market Street were the only stores that had food and water to offer.” In meeting the challenge, the team at Llano Logistics delivered seven loads of water to Abilene above and beyond its typical schedule. Likewise, two loads of water and one load of perishable products were sent to Midland and single loads of water went to San Angelo, Breckenridge, Brownwood and Brownfield. That’s all on top of the regular schedule. “From a business standpoint, the extra activity might not have been a good business decision, but it was the right thing to do,” Eagan said. “Abilene needed water. We didn’t think about the business. We thought about the community. Our purpose is to make sure people can eat and drink; those aren’t luxury items.” Teams across United’s trade area rose to the occasion and took on whatever tasks needed to be handled, regardless of their specific responsibilities. “I will never forget the amount of people who waited and waited in line but that were so thankful we were open and they were able to get food and water for their families,” Christal Faries, #547 store director, said. “I will never forget the countless number of Team Members who put their own personal situations on hold to help out the community.” 28

“I worked as long as my team needed me,” added Camille Carrion, backdoor lead at #547. “I worked seven days, no days off, stayed late, and it was an experience I will never forget. I knew I was helping people just like me who were struggling in this weather.” As the cold weather finally abated, one final challenge confronted store teams as several facilities experienced broken pipes resulting from the dramatic temperature fluctuations. “We’ve never had to worry about this in the past. All the stores have to have water sprinkler systems in the ceiling,” Jameson said. “Our store in Lamesa, the attic got so cold, it froze and we had pipes burst. Same thing happened at an Odessa store. We learned going forward, when it’s cold that long, take out ceiling tiles and let the heat in there. It was a learning curve for all of us.” It was also the kind of situation in which United thrives as Team Members work together to overcome whatever might be thrown their way. “You look back at that, and there were a lot of reasons to call in and not come to work,” Hopper said. “But our people didn’t do that. They showed up and took care of Guests. It just goes back to the pride of the team. It goes back to our mission statement of Ultimate Service, Superior Performance and Positive Impact. I think our team really answered the call in all three of those areas.” Which is something people don’t forget. “The team knew our community needed us, and when they needed us the most, our people stayed and did whatever needed to be done. It was never a question. They just did what needed to be done, and I think our communities will remember that.”

SERVICE | IMPACT | PERFORMANCE | PEOPLE

AVOCADO Shrimp CEVICHE

BY TAYLOR SUTTON, MS, RDN, LD

As a dietitian, I am a huge fan of seafood! With more than 500 varieties, the current recommendation is to consume seafood two times a week for all of its health benefits. There isn’t a better time for seafood than the summer! Did you know that eating one to two servings of fatty fish a week reduces the risk of dying from heart disease by 30-50 percent? It’s pretty amazing what food can do! With that said, shrimp is a fantastic option since it’s a quick and easy protein to cook and mix into red sauces, curries or with a blackening seasoning for tacos. Also on a plus side, most seafood can be prepared in 15 minutes or less! Which makes it perfect for someone with a busy lifestyle.

WHAT YOU NEED: • 1LB SHRIMP • 2 LARGE AVOCADOS • 1 BUNCH OF CILANTRO • 1 JALEPEñO

• 1/2 SMALL RED ONION • 3 ROMA TOMATOES • 2-3 LIMES, ZESTED & JUICED

Having a bag of already cooked shrimp in the freezer is so convenient to have on hand to thaw and use in salads, stir fries, soups and pastas. This particular dish of avocado shrimp ceviche is perfect if you need an appetizer or if you’re trying to up your taco night game! You can enjoy this shrimp ceviche with a spoon, refreshing cucumber slices, ‘Siete No Salt’ tortilla chips, or as a topping to add a second protein to your tacos. Take the shortcut and have the seafood counter steam your fish for free! That’s only if you don’t want the lime to cook your raw fish for you!

HOW IT’S MADE: • Cook shrimp in a hot skillet for 5 minutes • Dice all ingredients to similar sizes, besides the lime • Dice shrimp a little bigger than the rest of the ingredients • Combine all ingredients and enjoy • Serves 6

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

SERVICE | IMPACT | PERFORMANCE | PEOPLE

A New Chapter for The United Family By Joey Marcades In February, The United Family took an unprecedented move into the restaurant business by opening Rave On in the Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences in Lubbock, Texas.

So, The United Family developed a new division of the company called United Food and Beverage Services to take on the task. This division will be fully in charge of the Rave On project as well as similar projects going forward.

This new chapter shows the steps The United Family is taking to diversify its footprint as well as remain at the forefront of the food industry as a whole.

Taylor said the company launched a national search to secure top-tier talent to work on this project as well as head up the new division.

Rave On, as well as the Buddy Holly Hall, have been in the works for years. Now, with things slowly returning to normal, the doors of both have opened and the vision has come to fruition.

When the dust from the search settled, there was only one choice for The United Family — Thomas Wicinski.

In partnership with Lubbock Entertainment Performing Arts Association, The United Family’s goal for Rave On is to bring unique, fine dining together with world-class performing arts. In addition to the restaurant, the company will also be in charge of all concessions and banquet services inside the Buddy Holly Hall. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because the restaurant was named after the song “Rave On” which was written by Sonny West and made popular by Buddy Holly in 1958. Robert Taylor, former CEO and current EVP of The United Family, said he hopes everyone will see all of the time and energy the company has put into making this a special place when they step through the door.

Wicinski, now the head of food and beverage for The United Family, is the culinary expert who was brought in to spearhead the project. The long list of his credentials include being a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in New York, working under one of only 26 master chefs in the U.S., owning a degree in culinary arts and hospitality business management as well as being a certified executive chef by the American Culinary Foundation. Among other accomplishments and qualifications, he has also held the title of executive chef in restaurants and casinos across the country.

“The Buddy HOlly Hall Of PerfOrming Arts and Sciences is truly an incredible facility that requires incredible fOOd tO match”

“We are so excited to finally share the Rave On experience with others,” Taylor said. “The facilities in this building are world class and it is just the cherry on top for us to be able to put together this restaurant in this facility. We know it is something people are going to rave about.” However, running a restaurant is no easy task.

As the concept for the restaurant really took shape, Wicinski said it all came down to giving the community of West Texas a unique experience where they could explore new things in a familiar way.

“The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences is truly an incredible facility that requires incredible food to match,” Wicinski said. “At Rave On, we hope to offer our guests a menu full of options that will help them explore new flavors while also keeping some that West Texas flair. It is our goal to create a memorable experience for everyone who walks through our doors.”

SPIRIT MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2021

GROW UNITED BENEFITS OF BEING A TEAM MEMBER

Let The United Family help you achieve your goals with the United College Savings plan which can match up to $20 a week for eligible team members to further your education goals at any accredited two-or-four-year college or university. Plus, participants may be eligible to receive the ultimate gift, one of our six, $1,500 scholarships. Information about the College Savings Plan can be found online in Uconnect by searching College Savings Plan in the knowledge bank. You can also see your Store Director or reach out to the Talent Management Team (team_talentmanagement@unitedtexas.com) for more details.

COLLEGE

RETAIL MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATE PROGRAM The United Family recognizes the value and competitive advantage associated with a highly educated workforce. The Retail Management Certification Program is a free, online-based program, provided to all eligible part-time and full-time team members. This program allows team members to explore areas that will help strengthen and enhance their knowledge within the retail management industry. Registration Information is provided to stores each semester. See your Store Director or contact the training team (training@unitedtexas.com) for more details.

United Offers several internship opportunities each year. Our Internship Program offers Team Members a comprehensive experience in a variety of areas including retail operations, category management, business and manufacturing. For more information, email careers@unitedtexas.com

United We Care is a special emergency fund created to assist team members when unexpected serious events occur-such as medical costs, accidents or traumatic events. For questions or to request an application, call the program manager at 888-791-0220. Access the application on Uconnect under the Knowledge Bank tab.

UNITED WE CARE

SERVICE | IMPACT | PERFORMANCE | PEOPLE

One of the best recruiting tools we have is our team members. We encourage our best performers to recruit talent that may possess the same TEAM MEMBER DISCOUNT quality work ethic. Our referral bonus program pays team WELLNESS PROGRAM members for their successful referrals. Please see a hiring EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM manager or reach out to the Talent Management Team BENEFITS PROGRAM (team_talentmanagement@ unitedtexas.com) for more PHARMACY DISCOUNTS/PROGRAMS details. Information is also available in ANNUAL CELEBRATION CARD FOR FREE UNIFORM Uconnect.

MORE BENEFITS OF BEING A TEAM MEMBER

UNITED DIABETES MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

UCrew and A-Team provide every team member with the opportunity to get involved in their local communities. In total, teams have served more than 140,000 hours in their communities since the inception of this program in the early 2000’s. Please visit your store director or supervisor to find the next opportunity to get involved.

RightNow Media @ Work is a free video library designed with more than 20,000 videos on topics like leadership, parenting, and finances. RightNow Media @ Work has something for everyone. It’s available on all your favorite devices and is accessible any time of the day whenever and wherever you need it. See page 35.

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