Suppose you are shopping in the produce department, looking over the varieties of tomatoes. All of a sudden there is an unexpected tap on your shoulder. You turned around and a robot says, “can I help you?” It’s possible you’d jump out of your shoes. I absolutely would.

The Sackett family has been growing potatoes in Michigan for six generations since first planting 20 acres of the crop in 1905. Today, Sackett Ranch covers more than 8,200 acres, with more than 3,800 acres dedicated to growing potatoes. The farm also grows seed corn, field corn, soy beans and wheat.

For 40 years Carlos Capote has been a cornerstone of the J&C Tropicals team, generously sharing his deep knowledge of the produce industry, and greatly contributing to the company's success.

"Carlos is a wealth of knowledge. He knows more about the industry and its evolution than pretty much anyone here,” said Jessie Capote, CEO of J&C Tropicals.

As the sun shines brighter and the days get warmer, it’s time to spring clean your routine. March marks National Nutrition Month, urging us to look Beyond The Table when it comes to health and environmental impact. Daily choices, from breakfast to midnight snacks, have a ripple effect on the world around us.

The California Fresh Fruit Association hosted its 88th annual meeting March 10-12 at The Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay. With over 200 people in attendance, the meeting provided the opportunity for membership to gather prior to the 2024 harvest season. The event featured the election of the board of directors and chairwoman, as well as industry and committee updates.

Attendees of the Southern Roots luncheon, which took place during SEPC's Southern Exposure, heard from from Kristen Hadeed, founder and CEO of the Human Leadership Program. Her presentation, Permission to Screw Up, dove into how it is okay to make mistakes, let go of perfectionism, reframe your relationship with failure and allow yourself to be human.