Seven weeks ago, Joaquin Urias worked for someone else. Today, he is executive vice president of a company, JU Fresh Produce in Pharr, TX, that has done $2 million worth of business in 42 days.

Central Coast row crop shippers were seeing modest to moderate demand on most key items. Russet supplies far outpace demand. Onion shippers were expecting a bullish undertone and potentially a strong seller’s market during the winter season.

WEATHER

The second hot spell in as many weeks was expected to continue through Oct. 18 in Salinas, CA, with daytime highs in the mid-80s. Temperatures were expected to drop into the mid-60s by Oct. 21 then settle into the low 60s Oct. 23. There is a 40 percent chance of more rain Oct. 22-23.

The Idaho Grower Shippers Association board of directors announced Oct. 9 that Mark Klompien has been named president of the organization. He fills the position vacated in late September by Travis Blacker, who joined the Idaho Potato Commission as industry relations director.

Just in time for the winter holidays, Almond Accents is getting a new packaging and flavor facelift. This fall, consumers' favorite healthy salad topping will now be packaged as Wonderful Almond Accents, and will be available in six different varieties, including three new flavors: honey roasted with cranberries; sweet roasted with pomegranate; and sea salt and cracked pepper.

WASHINGTON — Specialty crop research may not be a sexy subject, but the farm bill’s research grants that helped the Florida citrus industry battle citrus greening disease will be lost if Congress does not reauthorize the 2008 law during the five-week, lame-duck session, said speakers at the United Fresh Produce Association’s Washington Public Policy Conference, here, earlier this month.

The farm bill is one issue that is surfacing in congressional races on the campaign trail this fall and may be on the agenda when Congress returns to Capitol Hill after the election.

CERRITOS, CA — A trio of food bloggers was involved in a panel discussion about their choice of work at the membership luncheon of the Fresh Produce & Floral Council, held Oct. 10, here.

Jin Ju Wilder of Status Gro in Pasadena, CA, led the three Southern California women in a discussion about where they get their information and how produce industry firms can get involved in a food blog.