NAPLES, FL - In the United States, 65 is the magic number that allows many workers to retire with full Social Security benefits. It represents an age that many people look forward to for their ability to slow down and enjoy their golden years.

The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association, however, is doing anything but slowing down in its 65th year. During its annual convention, held Sept. 21-23 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, here, the association explored some of the major issues that are confronting the produce industry both in Florida and across the nation.

The moon is considered a "local" satellite of the Earth. However, the distance between the two is 238,857 miles. Is that really "local?"

Local weather, local time, local news, local restaurants, local, local, local - what is local? Is it down the street, two blocks over, in a neighboring town, or 238,857 miles away? Is there a specific measured distance for something to be officially deemed "local?"

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association announced Sept. 24 the resignation of Ron Lemaire, the organization's executive vice president and director of marketing.

As a key part of the association for the past 10 years, Mr. Lemaire has contributed as part of the CPMA team to position the association effectively to meet the future needs of its members.

Joe Longo Sr. loved life.

Mr. Longo was a family man who loved to celebrate with his family and who loved food, which was appropriate for a man who worked around food nearly his entire life.

Roseanne Longo, Mr. Longo's niece and the spokesperson for Longo Bros., told The Produce News that her uncle, along with his brothers Tommy and Gus, founded the Mississauga, ON-based company.

Mr. Longo, 70, died Sept. 15, after battling a lengthy illness.

U.S. consumers want their berries and often appear willing to pay what the market demands.

In speaking with a sampling of grower-shippers, produce brokers, wholesalers and retail produce buyers, few expressed concern to The Produce News that consumers would shy away from what might be high prices for certain imported berries.

Having year-round or nearly year-round supplies of berries requires that berries be imported by the United States since domestic crop schedules can't provide year-round supplies, especially to meet increasing demand.

For Brazilian producers, the opportunity to ship fresh mangos to the United States comes and goes quickly. But for the exporters who specialize in U.S. shipments, it is a very important window.