When someone mentions the name Babe Ruth, we automatically link it to baseball because of the impact he had on the game with his ability to hit home runs.

When something has an impact on someone, it often gives him or her a reason for liking it and maybe even wanting it.

Perhaps it's specific clothing, an attractive automobile model, a style of furniture or even a particular retail outlet. If something has exciting impact, it will draw the attention of consumers.

With favorable weather conditions and fairly strong markets, Texas shippers are heading into a heavy shipping period in a pretty good mood. Interviews with shippers of onions, melons and tropicals revealed a lot of optimism.

John McClung, president of the Texas Produce Association in Mission, TX, said that it appears to be the beginning of a pretty good season for Texas growers and shippers. While the heavy Texas melon and onion seasons are just getting underway, the reality is that the season has been going for quite some time with pretty good results.

Washington State Potato Commission Chairman Randy Mullen and Director of Trade Matt Harris participated in the historic friendship luncheon welcoming China's president, Hu Jintao, held recently in Everett, WA.

Respected dignitaries and representatives of major Washington state businesses were also in attendance. The importance of the event was evident to the two state potato commission representatives, as they were seated across from former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger.

Robert Wegman, a pioneer of one-stop shopping who transformed his family's business into one of the nation's largest private companies, died April 20. He was 87.

Mr. Wegman, chairman of Wegmans Food Markets, died at Strong Memorial Hospital, where he was admitted after his health deteriorated in recent days, according to a company statement. The cause of death was not disclosed.

"Until recently, Mr. Wegman kept a full schedule working in the office and enjoying his favorite pastime of visiting Wegmans stores," the statement said.

SALINAS, CA -- Though the effects of an expected national boycott and walkout of workers planned for May 1 are as yet unknown, efforts are being made here in agriculture to lessen the economic blow.