WASHINGTON -- A new produce association was formally introduced Tuesday evening, Sept. 12 during United's annual Washington Public Policy Conference here in the nation's capital.

The International Fresh-cut Produce Association and United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association have completed their legal merger, thus launching what it termed a new era of service to the produce industry by the new group, the United Fresh Produce Association.

Carzalia Valley Produce in Columbus, NM, recently finished the final stage of its massive extension and renovation project.

Chuck Curl has joined Blue Book Services as director of ratings. He succeeds Larry McDaniel, former director of ratings, who after 18 years with the Blue Book relocated to Florida to be closer to family.

Mr. Curl has over 25 years of produce industry experience and most recently was director of ratings for Red Book Credit Services.

Darby Jones, former communications manager for the Washington State Horticulture Association, has something in common with technology tycoon Bill Gates: they both retired on the same day.

But the 27-year-old Quincy, WA, resident hasn't let this brush with near fame go to her head. The Produce News caught up with Ms. Jones -- who was eight months pregnant earlier this summer -- shortly after she left HORT. Ms. Jones was decorating the nursery for the arrival of infant Bridget Jones with apple tree wall paper and fuzzy barnyard friends.

Leaving the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association to move up the next step in his career ladder is bittersweet for Ray Gilmer, who has worked for the Maitland-based association for the past 12 years, most recently as public affairs director.

Mr. Gilmer has accepted a new position as communications manager for BASF's agricultural products division, and will start his new job in October. The position with BASF also means that Mr. Gilmer will relocate to Research Triangle Park, NC, where the BASF facility is located.

Monterey County Agricultural Education Inc. will host "Flavors of the World" on Saturday, Sept. 16.

The annual event provides funds for the ag awareness and literacy programs of the organization such as The Farm Day Experience, Careers in Agriculture, Education & Agriculture Together and Ag Knowledge.

The 2006 event will be held at the Orradre Building in King City, CA, and will feature the cuisine and atmosphere of South America.