CHICAGO -- The United States and Canada signed a historic equivalency agreement that will allow the smooth flow of certified-organic products between the two countries and support the continued growth of the rapidly expanding organic market in North America.

The agreement -- the first of its kind for the organic industry -- was signed June 17 during the Organic Trade Association's All Things Organic conference and trade show, held here June 16-18.

Keystone Fruit Marketing's successful advertising campaign last summer encouraged consumers across Southern California to Make a Burger (or Salad) Better by adding Walla Walla River sweet onions to their favorite recipe.

This year, Keystone has plans to make its Summer marketing push bigger and better by expanding efforts into new West Coast markets, focusing more effectively on key geographic locations and outdoor media, and introducing a new message targeted at consumers.

So the headline is not exactly accurate. Adam Bazarnick is the produce director for the nine-store Nugget Market chain based in Woodland, CA, which was recently named by Forbes magazine as one of the top 10 retailers for which to work in the nation.

As far as concert promoter goes, Mr. Bazarnick said, "There really is no title for what I do. When the company puts on an event, I put together the light show, contact the bands and the sound guys, and put it together. I do what a tour manager does. "

More on that later.

Continuing a series of successful growing seasons, New Jersey growers are anticipating more of the same for 2009.

In New Jersey, the term "normal season" has come to be characterized by strong consumer and industry demand, excellent volume and high quality, all backed up by a comprehensive advertising and promotional plan. With a world-renowned reputation for quality and taste, plus a string of consecutive successful growing seasons, New Jersey blueberry growers are already seeing great interest in this year's crop.

With its specialty tomato offerings continuing to expand each season, Mastronardi Produce, based in Kingsville, ON, has begun delivering the European sensation Kumato tomato variety to retailers across North America.

The bad news is that everyone is nervous about the national economy. The good news is that organic shoppers are generally remaining loyal to their pocketbooks, principles and products.