Edward D. Wengryn has been named the New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture. The State Board of Agriculture unanimously confirmed Wengryn at their meeting, and Governor Phil Murphy approved the appointment.

Assistant Secretary Joe Atchison III has directed the Department of Agriculture since July 1, assuming the responsibilities of secretary after the retirement of Douglas Fisher.

This spring the California Avocado Commission is debuting its “What’s Inside a California Avocado” marketing program. The advertising and social media campaign spotlights the California difference by going straight to the groves, showcasing growers’ deep roots and focusing on communication of locally grown and sustainably farmed.

Sanford (Sandy) Cohen, a visionary leader in the produce brokerage industry, died March 24, surrounded by his loving family. He was 71.

As the proud owner of Cohen Produce Marketing, a third-generation produce brokerage business, Mr. Cohen transformed a modest local enterprise started by his grandfather and transformed the business to compete in the modern age. He led with an unshakeable commitment to quality and service, which cemented Mr. Cohen as a local Harrisburg success story and an international influence in the produce world.

The Fresh Produce & Floral Council announced the keynote speaker for the highly anticipated 2024 FPFC Expo, Fresh Forward, taking place on Wednesday, May 1 at the Anaheim Convention Center. 

Tristan Simpson is a dynamic senior marketing executive and top corporate officer, specializing in the fresh consumer packaged goods categories, with over 25 years of experience throughout the supply chain — from retailer to processor, manufacturer, distributor to farmer and everywhere in between. A well-rounded, operational marketer who is adept in both brand and private-label initiatives.

Continental Fresh LLC, is a grower, shipper and importer of fresh fruits and vegetables through Texas from Latin America, specializing in mangos year-round. Connecting dependable growers to its customers in the U.S. market, Continental Fresh has nurtured a reputation as being highly knowledgeable of the import market, providing regular market updates and forecasts to ensure that their product is delivered on time and in peak condition.