Prime Time Sales LLC in Coachella, CA, which specializes in bell peppers grown in both Mexico and the United States, first ran trials of mini-sweet peppers as an expansion of its line in mainland Mexico during the 2010-11 season, crossing the products into Nogales, AZ.

The trials went well, and the company increased production in 2011-12 and again in 2012-13, according to Mike Aiton, marketing manager.

The Georgia Watermelon Association is currently making plans for its annual meeting and watermelon queen competition to be held Jan. 24- 26 at the Sea Palms Golf & Tennis Resort in St. Simons, GA. The event offers exhibits, networking and recreational opportunities, and educational sessions designed to bring the most up-to-date and relevant information to the watermelon industry.

The United Fresh Produce Association is now accepting nominations for the 2014 United Fresh Retail Produce Manager Awards program. The program will honor 25 outstanding retail produce managers at the United Fresh 2014 convention June 10-13 in Chicago.

Bryant, WI-based ThorPack, a global packaging resource, announced two new packaging products that promise to pack in profits for potato producers: the Twin Bag and the TP3600 dual head wicket bagger.

NOILYN HOGAN joined Hailey, ID-based ProSource Inc. as a sales associate earlier this year.

In her new position at ProSource, Hogan focuses primarily on international sales and exports of onions to Mexico, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. She also handles several domestic accounts for onions and potatoes as well.

Wish Farms is issuing a challenge to all customers: Create a team of pickers and test your mettle at the first annual Strawberry Picking Challenge Feb. 7-8 in Plant City, FL.

The charity fundraiser will benefit the Redlands Christian Migrant Association, which provides quality childcare and early education for children of migrant farm workers and rural, low-income families throughout Florida.