Fruit Patch Sales LLC in Dinuba, CA, which hired Rick Eastes as vice president of sales and marketing in December, has announced the addition of several other people to its sales team.

William F. Consalo, a former president of Wm. Consalo & Sons Farms Inc. in Vineland, NJ, died Sunday, Jan. 4, at his home in Vineland following a bout with cancer. He was 82 years old.

Mr. Consalo was one of four sons of company founder William Consalo, who started the wholesale produce distribution firm in 1927. The other sons were Anthony, known as Andy, who died some years ago, as well as Augustus (Augie) and Vincent Sr., who both retired a few years ago.

To-Jo Mushrooms, based in Avondale, PA, has partnered with EnerNOC Inc. for Demand Response, an energy-conservation program that reduces stress on the electric power grid during periods of high demand.

Anthony D'Amico, executive vice president of To-Jo, cited environmental stewardship as a company priority and a driving force behind the decision to implement the program that conserves energy and makes a positive impact with community neighbors.

After 23 years with Philadelphia-based John Vena Inc., Charles D. Pigliacelli, partner and director of store operations, retired on the final day of 2008.

"I will miss everyone in this industry," Mr. Pigliacelli said in a press release. "I was proud to be a part of John Vena Inc.'s growth and expansion and rise to one of the best houses on the street."

The Southeast Produce Council will honor Ferdinand S. Duda with its 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award at the council's annual conference in early March.

Mr. Duda, who has been a member of the board of directors of Oviedo, FL- based A. Duda & Sons Inc. since 1981 and chairman since January 2005, will receive the award Saturday, March 7, during the keynote luncheon, part of the council's annual retail and foodservice conference and exposition, scheduled for March 5-7 in Tampa, FL.

When Ted Campbell, executive director of the Florida Strawberry Association in Dover, FL, joined the firm in early August, he brought many years of retail experience with him. That experience is proving helpful in the production and wholesale ends of the business.