The U.S. Apple Association has named a new chair to lead its board of directors. Michigan grower Chris Alpers of RedPath Orchards and Alpers Farms will serve the 2021-22 term.

Randy Abhold, president of Rainier Fruit Co., will retire at the end of the month. He has a long history in the industry. “It’s difficult, if not impossible, to sum up his achievements over the last 26 years,” said Mark Zirkle, CEO of Rainier. 

Jayne Alyce Bozzuto, former vice president and director of Cheshire, CT-based Bozzuto’s Inc., died Saturday, Aug. 14 at her home in North Palm Beach, FL. She was 67.

The Southeast Produce Council is proud to announce that it will honor two outstanding gentlemen with one of its highest honors, the SEPC Lifetime Membership Award.

This distinguished award will be presented to Steve Pinkston and Frank Swanson at Southern Innovations in Savannah, GA, during the Chairman's Dinner Dance on Friday, Sept. 10.

Nicole Wegman, senior vice president of Wegmans Brand, has been promoted to the new role of president of Wegmans Brand.

Throughout the company's 105 years, its Wegmans Brand has played an increasingly important function of differentiating the company from other food retailers. "Innovation leading to unique items with great taste that can only be found at Wegmans has helped make our stores a destination for families and food enthusiasts," the company said in a statement.

Every member of the Southeast Produce Council puts in extra time on the job because of the satisfaction that a better yield in crops, businesses and relationships brings them. But there are a select few who stand out among them who unite the region through tireless effort, extraordinary instinct and a genuine love for the produce industry.

The Southeast Produce Council is pleased to recognize several outstanding individuals who have been nominated for this year's Next Generation Award.