The 2013-14 shipping season out of the West Mexico states of Sonora and Sinaloa started slower than normal, and with lighter-than-usual volume, but weekly volumes are expected to return to normal by mid-January, according to Gonzalo Avila, chief executive officer of Malena Produce.

The Produce News spoke with Avila in late-December following his return from a tour of the production areas in Mexico, mainly in southern Sonora and the Culiacan area of Sinaloa.

A Martin’s Super Market in Elkhart, IN, reopened today at noon, less than two days after a shooting in the store took the lives of three people: Krystle Dikes, a store employee; Rachelle Godfread, a customer; and the gunman.

As the firm gets closer to its 10th anniversary, LD Logistics LLC, based in Bronx, NY, continues to hone its offerings and concentrate its business.

“We no longer have any satellite offices,” said Lance Dichter, who wears the general manager title for the company.  “We have concentrated all of our business under one roof, which works better for us.”

For Paul Kazan, who founded Target Interstate Systems Inc. in the Bronx, NY, more than 30 years ago, there is nothing like picking up the phone and talking to a customer or a truck driver.

“I like the personal touch.  With a text or an email they don’t hear the tone of your voice and you don’t know exactly how you come off,” he said.

The National Mango Board recently announced the release of its new education materials for culinary students, culinary instructors and professional chefs.

The NMB works closely with foodservice professionals, chefs and operators to encourage the use of fresh mango in dishes at restaurant chains across the United States. "The Fresh Mango-The Basics for Foodservice" video and Fresh Mango Curriculum cover the product essentials from how mangos grow to how to maximize menu versatility — everything operators need to create fresh, delicious and healthful menu items with fresh mango.

Barbara and Bob Sanderson began Jonathan’s Sprouts Inc. in Rochester, MA, in March 1976. Since then the company has built its reputation through continued personal contact with its customers, standing steadfastly behind its quality products and offering support and education.

Liz Reilley, director of marketing and sales, said the company grows only organically, and added, “Bob and Barbara are credited in New England with helping to create organic departments within produce departments over the years.