Well known throughout the fresh produce industry, Tony Merola has spent the last 30 years as a chef, as well as serving in various marketing, merchandising, sales and publicity capacities for fresh produce organizations from coast to coast. His flair for creating high quality recipes that are innovative, delicious and easy to prepare had made Tony a sought-after source in the food industry. Tony is a graduate of the New York Culinary Institute. He gained expertise and versatility in a number of restaurants in the New York are, including the world-famous Billmore Hotel. Tony began his fresh produce career at Calavo Growers of California as vice president of Eastern sales. He went on to serve as national merchandising director for the California Avocado Commission and in 1992 he joined Brooks Tropicals as director of marketing and executive chef. Tapping into his restaurant and fresh produce experience, Tony established Tony Merola Associates, a food service and fresh produce marketing merchandising, promotion and publicity service in 1984. In June 1998, Tony started the Merola Marketing Group, Inc., a marketing and merchandising company working for niche growers in Florida, California and Arizona. Throughout his career, he has traveled the country educating produce professionals and retail staff about the latest developments and products in the produce section of the supermarket. Tony is the author of several cookbooks available in bookstores nationwide. His most recent book, Floribbean Flavors, features tips on cooking with tropical fruits and vegetables.     Floribbean Flavors