The United Fresh Produce Association announced its line-up of headline speakers for United Fresh 2012, which will be held May 1-3 in Dallas. Former First Lady Laura Bush will deliver remarks on her life experiences, sharing perspectives learned from eight years in the White House and beyond, a United Fresh press release stated.

Don Harris

Naturipe Farms announced that Don Harris resigned his position as director of category development to launch his own consul

Peri & Sons Farms, headquartered in Yerington, NV, has announced the recent addition of produce industry veteran Cindy Elrod to its Nevada sales team.

The DJ Forry Co., based in Reedley, CA, announced RAY ENGLAND as its new vice president of marketing. Mr. England will work with the company management to develop go-to-market strategies geared to expand and enhance long-term strategic partnerships with the retail sector.

“I’ve known Ray for close to a decade, and I believe that Ray’s retail experience and reputation in the produce industry as a thoughtful and honest individual will add significant value to our company. I look forward to the future working with Ray,” said John Forry, principal at DJ Forry Co.

Marc Holbik (second from left), vice president, and Isabel Hurtado (center), sales manager of Ecoripe Tropicals, flanked by the company’s papaya growers in Belize.

Ecoripe Trop

The new year brought a new crop of Piñata apples to grocery stores throughout the United States and Canada. This marks the third season that Piñata, a Stemilt Growers exclusive apple variety, has been widely available.