Month: December 2013

USDA has determined that recent developments, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s publication of proposed rules under the Food Safety Modernization Act, could affect fundamental aspects of the proposed marketing agreement. The program, as proposed by the industry, would have regulated the handling of cabbage, lettuce, spinach and other vegetables defined as leafy greens marketed in the United States. …

The Prince Edward Island Potato Board has a new executive as a result of its December 5th Board of Directors meeting.  Gary Linkletter, of Summerside, was re-elected as Chairman of the Board.  Mr. Linkletter is currently serving his second three year term representing the tablestock sector for the Summerside District.  Gary is a partner in Linkletter Farms, a family farm operation which grows seed, table and processing potatoes.  Gary has provided excellent leadership to the Board of Directors and they are very pleased that he has agreed to serve as Chair for another year. …

Seb Gertmenian, chairman emeritus of Ready Pac Produce and father of Ready Pac founder Dennis Gertmenian, passed away on Sunday, December 8, 2013 at the age of 101. Seb was well known in the produce industry, from his humble beginnings with a produce stand in Monrovia, CA up to his retirement from Pasadena Produce at age 82. Seb was also a devoted family man and leader in his community, and he generously supported its needs. …

The National Mango Board’s (NMB) Mangover campaign has been named one of the five finalists for PRWeek’s 2014 Product Brand Development Campaign of the Year, one of the public relations industry’s most prestigious honors. PRWeek, an influential industry publication, recognizes and honors achievements and leadership in public relations judging entrants based off several criteria. …

In 2014, as part of their renewed focus on Keeping Trade on Track through dispute prevention education, the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) have launched a new YouTube channel, DRC – Dispute Resolution Corporation, housing short educational videos for the trade. …