WASHINGTON -- Described as a breakthrough by FDA officials at the Food & Drug Administration, the agency has found a Mexican-picked jalapeno pepper at a Texas distributor that matches the Salmonella Saintpaul serotype that has caused more than 1,200 people to become ill.

Now FDA officials are working feverishly with Agricola Zaragosa, a small distributor in McAllen, TX, to issue a recall notice to its buyers. "We presented the information to the firm, and a recall is underway," David Acheson, FDA's associate commissioner for food, said in a July 21 call with reporters.

CUTCHOGUE, NY -- Paulette Satur knew that the farm she and her husband, Eberhard Muller, bought here on Long Island's north fork in 1997 would be a success.

WASHINGTON -- United Fresh Produce Association has named Miriam S. Miller as its new director of membership, adding a full-time staff position devoted to growing and supporting the association's membership.

Ms. Miller will work closely with Jeff Oberman, vice president of industry relations, to grow United's membership base and assist members with maximizing the benefit of United's services.

The Buy California Marketing Agreement, which oversees the "California Grown" campaign, recently promoted Maile Shanahan Geis from marketing director to executive director, where she is now responsible for the program's strategic direction, long-term planning and signatory relations.

In addition, she will continue to oversee the marketing and promotional activities of the statewide campaign, including public relations outreach, advertising programs, retail and foodservice merchandising, and industry communications.

Bob Ringer, a well-known figure in the Denver produce industry and former head of Ringer & Son Produce Brokerage, died July 2 from complications related to Alzheimer's disease. He was 86.

Gene Schneider, who is on the sales staff at Ringer & Son, said that Mr. Ringer had been active in the industry for more than 50 years. The longtime produce man also had a distinguished service record.

WASHINGTON -- News that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration lifted its advisory on fresh tomatoes was met with relief from California growers who are trying to earn the best price for their products in today's market, but only underscored the damage done to Florida growers.