When Matthew Ecker looks back on his introduction to the produce industry, fond memories flood his mind.

"I was three or four years old riding the forklift with my dad, that's what I'd look forward to every weekend," the 23-year-old Mr. Ecker said about his visits to the warehouse of Vineland Growers Co-Operative, where his dad, Michael, serves as vice president of sales and marketing.

Switching to more environmentally friendly light fixtures and lighting is a noble gesture for any company. When it saves money, increases the brightness of the facility and adds an element of worker safety as well, it is truly a win-win proposition.

"We have a green logo," said Jack Gyben, who is vice president of marketing and development for Progressive Produce Corp. in Los Angeles, as well as one of the company's owners. "But that green logo for us also represents our commitment to the environment and, in this case, the money we will save by making this switch."

WASHINGTON -- Daily headlines questioning the safety of Chinese food exports have fueled more calls on Capitol Hill to resuscitate the 2002 country-of-origin labeling law.

Currently, legislation that would fund the U.S. Department of Agriculture sets firm dates for implementing the country-of-origin labeling law for produce, peanuts and meat.

As Linda Stine looks back on her 13-year career with the Fresh Produce & Floral Council, she is very proud of the trade association's efforts in reaching out to new constituencies.

The FPFC has done this by both expanding its geographical reach as well as its foray into produce industry categories. Ms. Stine, who is retiring at the end of the year, spoke with The Produce News a few days before the council's annual exposition, which was scheduled for July 24 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, CA.

Interfresh Inc., a national supplier of fruits and vegetables based in Fullerton, CA, unveiled a new corporate identity and web site. The announcement came during the opening day of PMA Foodservice conference in Monterey, CA, where Interfresh showcased its new look and portfolio of products and services.

The Campari Marketing Group introduced the tomato variety to food editors at the some of the top national food, fitness and women's interest publications in New York.

Joanne Weir, cooking instructor, host of the PBS television show "Joanne Weir's Cooking Class" and author of the cookbook You Say Tomato, joined CMG spokesperson Kari Volyn on the New York tour. During the editor meetings, they shared information about Camparis, executed a tasting and offered Ms. Weir's favorite tomato recipes.