PHILADELPHIA -- A longtime house on the Philadelphia Regional Produce Market, M&C Produce Co. Inc., closed its doors Nov. 6.

William Morgen, secretary-treasurer of the Philadelphia Produce Credit Bureau on the market, said that John Lerro, owner of M&C, "never mentioned to any of us on the market that he would be closing his doors. And he never mentioned it to the credit bureau." Mr. Morgen has learned that Mr. Lerro "has employed an attorney to work out a payout arrangement with all of his creditors," though he did not know the name of the attorney.

In Chile it is springtime moving toward summer. Chile's spring has been less than ideal for fruit growers.

BRASELTON, GA -- The Southeast Produce Council celebrated its 10th anniversary the first weekend in November in part by recognizing many of the individuals who have helped make the council a success since it was founded in 1999.

Attendees also heard a presentation by consultant Ronnie De La Cruz, whose keynote address looked at how major events over the past 10 years have affected the council and the produce industry in general as well as some issues that may have an important impact over the next 10 years.

Family, friends and co-workers are mourning the death of Steven Craig Hood, who worked in sales and shipping for Keystone Fruit Marketing Inc. in Walla Walla, WA.

Mr. Hood, a resident of College Place, WA, died Oct. 29 at the Kadlec Medical Center in Richland, WA. He was 54 years old. The cause of death was not disclosed.

"He was really a genuinely good guy," colleague Dan Borer told The Produce News Nov. 9. "He was very well respected and honest. He was a good man to work with."

United Potato Growers of Idaho in Idaho Falls announced Nov. 5 the resignation of Jerry Wright, president and chief executive officer, effective immediately, to pursue other opportunities.

Rick Shawver, the organization's chief operating officer, will handle interim operations. No additional staffing changes will be made at this time. "United Potato Growers of Idaho appreciates Mr. Wright's efforts on behalf of the organization," Carl Taylor, UPGI board chairman, said in a Nov. 5 press release. "We wish him all the best in his future endeavors."

ST.-LEONARD, QC -- Over 500 members of the produce industry turned out for the Quebec Produce Marketing Association's 24th annual Oyster Party, held here Nov. 6 at Le Rizz reception hall.