On March 5, the contentious retail clerks contract signed three years ago between the United Food & Commercial Workers union and the three major Southern California grocery chains expires. As of Feb. 21, there was no word on the status of the current negotiations.

AUSTIN, TX -- Whole Foods Market Inc. and Wild Oats Markets have announced that they have signed a definitive merger agreement under which Whole Foods Market will acquire Wild Oats Markets' outstanding common stock in a cash tender offer of $18.50 per share, or approximately $565 million based on fully diluted shares.

Whole Foods Market will also assume Wild Oats Markets' existing net debt totaling approximately $106 million as reported Sept. 30, 2006.

The California Tree Fruit Agreement, based in Reedley, CA, announced that Colleen Duhart has been named vice president of marketing, effective Feb. 12.

"Colleen has a diverse background in integrated marketing and brings new experience to the CTFA team," CTFA President Sheri Mierau said in a statement. "We look forward to the continued success of current CTFA marketing programs as well as additional insights and innovations under Colleen's leadership."

A gathering of some 400 growers and interested parties turned out Feb. 6 for the annual Idaho-eastern Oregon growers meeting in Ontario, OR.

Held at the Four River Cultural Center, the daylong event incorporated a trade show with numerous work sessions and panel discussions.

The Vidalia Onion Committee in Vidalia, GA, announced the 2006 winners for Hall of Fame and Grower of the Year at its annual Growers' Celebration Feb. 3.

The 2006 Grower of the Year award was presented posthumously to Wayne Douberly of Vidalia. Mr. Douberly died in October; his wife, Frances, accepted the award on his behalf.

Temperatures that dropped to about 27 degrees Feb. 17 in Belle Glade, FL, and then to 30-31 degrees Feb. 19 caused losses to sweet corn and green beans that are expected to reach into the millions of dollars.