The International Fresh Produce Association gathered over 250 industry leaders and volunteers at the Spring Policy & Regulatory Forum hosted in Washington, DC. The event brings together industry volunteers to discuss issues important to the industry. The IFPA board of directors held a meeting in conjunction with this event. After a series of committee and council meetings and education sessions, volunteers march on the Hill to meet with elected officials, members of the Administration and Embassy professionals.  

California cherry season has a noteworthy early opening at Meena Farms, a Merced County-based operation. Chris Medeiros, general manager, is quick to credit all the hard work, investment and sweat equity that goes into producing cherries at a high-level, and also explained that sometimes it simply comes down to where you are located.

Ocean Mist Farms, a leading grower and marketer of fresh artichokes in North America, launched its annual spring promotion conveying the health and nutrition benefits and accolades of its famous Gold Standard artichokes. The Gold Standard Giveaway will run through June 1, giving participants the opportunity to win one Grand Prize VISA gift card valued at $1,000 or one of five VISA gift cards valued at $100.

Helping consumers and growers waste less through high-quality, low impact, sustainable products is the mission of Verona, KY-based Sun Sugar Farms — and the company is doing just that through the use of its biodegradable, recyclable boxes created by owner and operator Linda Fritz.

Matt Steve Pandol Jr. died unexpectedly at his home in Delano, CA, on April 21. He was 60.

Mr. Pandol was born June 27, 1962, to Matt and Lucy (Tudor) Pandol. Upon completing his high school education in Delano in 1980, Mr. Pandol attended Fresno State University, graduating with a degree in plant science. Following college he returned to Delano to work alongside his family in their farming/produce marketing businesses in Delano.

Hannaford Supermarkets is launching a new initiative to amplify its sustainability commitment across the Northeast of the United States. The new brand identity, called Planet Hannaford, positions the retailer’s sustainability efforts under one, customer-facing banner that both informs and empowers customers to make eco-friendly choices.