Make no mistake about it, Mark McBride is old school.

He is proudly going to take that characterization into retirement with him when he steps down from his sales position at Coastline Family Farms, where he has spent the final two decades of his notable career.

With blueberries being a signature crop for New Jersey growers, everyone is excited that the season is just about here. After all, New Jersey has a rich history of blueberry production and is an ideal region for growing the popular fruit.

“Things are looking really good right now, with our first harvest going to be about June 10,” said Denny Doyle, chairman of the New Jersey Blueberry Industry Advisory Council. “Those in the Southern region, the Hamilton region, will start even sooner.”

The Masser Family of Cos., an eighth-generation family-owned potato farming company, received product innovation awards and citations for the new Side Delights Amazables! potato product line.

The summer brings many things to many people. To me, it means the reintroduction to an array of favorite fruits.

Around this time of year watermelon often gets top billing in the produce aisle, but retailers best not forget another summer favorite: stone fruit. I know my eyes light up when I see that first white peach display in the supermarket.

It seems I am not alone.

Mike LaMont has joined MyLand, a soil health company, as senior director, algae operations and innovation. With nearly three decades of excellence in biotechnology and algae innovation, LaMont will play a pivotal role in enhancing MyLand’s operations.

In his role, LaMont will contribute to advancements in algae science that will drive further benefits of the MyLand service to growers. He will oversee algae and lab operations, leading a diverse team of scientists and engineering staff on the operations team.

With sourcing offices in various countries, Salix Fruits is committed to providing the highest quality products to its customers worldwide, maintaining its position as a leader in the citrus industry in the Southern Hemisphere.