WASHINGTON -- A new study shows that the economic and employment contribution of the produce and floral industries amounts to $554 billion annually - a number that is likely to boost the industry's influence among decision-makers on Capitol Hill and across state capitals.

DILLSBURG, PA -- The National Apple Month program has announced the winners of its fall 2008 National Apple Month retail and military display contests, concluding the very successful apple industry's generic promotion.

The annual contest, which jump-starts the domestic apple industry's marketing season, provided retailers and the apple industry with increased sales and gave consumers easy access to great-tasting, good-for-you apples and the participating partner products Marzetti "Caramel Apple Dips" and Smucker's "Natural Peanut Butter."

Bryon McDougall, director of operations for McDougall & Sons, loves a challenge. "Every day's a new day, and every day is different," he told The Produce News.

And he manages to cram an awful lot into each day. "I had all my excitement when I was young," he laughed. "I'm 28 going on 40."

Imagination Farms, based in Indianapolis, has expanded its distribution network of "Disney Garden" suppliers with the addition of Berry Fresh in Dominguez Hills, CA.

Mark Haun, Western region sales manager for Imagination Farms, said in a Feb. 18 press release, "With our singular focus on increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables among children, a berry program was a priority for us. Berry Fresh is enthusiastic about the opportunity and will help us bring quality berries to the marketplace."

MONTE VISTA, CO -- Held once again in conjunction with the area's agriculture fair at the Ski-Hi Park, the election of new members to the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee took place Feb. 12.

The event included a keynote address by Lowell Catlett, renowned futurist and professor at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces.

Southern Specialties Inc., headquartered in Pompano Beach, FL, announced Feb. 16 that Tim Meissner has been hired as chief operating officer.

Mr. Meissner has a broad range of experience in the produce industry. His career has included positions in retail, foodservice, produce distribution and grower applications management. He most recently held the position of vice president of sales at River Ranch Fresh Foods in Salinas, CA.