Embattled Winn-Dixie Stores Inc., based in Jacksonville, FL, showed that its woes continue, announcing July 27 that it will close another 30 stores and lay off 120 additional corporate and support personnel. Meanwhile, rival Publix Super Markets Inc., based in Lakeland, FL, announced Aug. 1 a 3.4 percent jump in sales for the second quarter of the year and plans to open 34 new stores in 2010.

The tale of the two chains presents a stark contrast in the world of retail haves and have-nots.

HARTFORD, CT — What a difference a year makes. Twelve months ago, the eastern United States was experiencing a cool and rainy spring that had most crops running a bit later than usual. By contrast, the region this year has been dealing with a dry and warmer-than-usual spring and early summer which has brought crops on a good week or two later than usual.

As Connecticut Commissioner of Agriculture F. Philip Prelli put it simply, "Every year's a little different."

MONTEREY, CA -- The Produce Marketing Association's Foodservice Conference & Exposition, held here July 30-Aug. 1, set a record for attendance with registrations "approaching 1,700," according to PMA President Bryan Silbermann. One hundred and fifty-three exhibitors participated in the expo, which is also a record.

Jack V. Pandol, chairman emeritus of Pandol Bros. in Delano, CA, died in his sleep Wednesday, Aug. 4, "after an extended battle with Alzheimer's disease." He died at home, "surrounded by many family members," according to a written statement furnished by the family. He was 87.

HARTFORD, CT — Two major building projects — one that looks to begin as early as this fall, the other with a less definite time frame — are on track at the Connecticut Regional Produce Market, according to the state official who is overseeing both developments.

Gordon Robertson, vice president of sales and marketing for Sun World Inc. in Bakersfield, CA, said that he used to have to wait until the end of the month or even the end of the quarter to get a thorough picture of sales department figures. Today, he pulls up a screen on his computer and has instant access to the sales numbers as well as how profitable each sale was measured against the exact cost of producing that product.