While J.E. Russell Produce Ltd. is not exhibiting at the upcoming Canadian Produce Marketing Association trade show, the company is very happy to have the convention in its home city of Toronto.

Dave Whitmore, a recently retired member of Peak of the Market, died April 16, surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was 60.

Mr. Whitmore found himself at Peak of the Market through connections with his longtime friend Larry, where he flourished in his career.

Mr. Whitmore was an important member of the Peak team for over 28 years. He launched his career in the company as a sales representative and rose through the ranks to become vice president sales and, most recently, vice president of product and business development.

With more than 115 years of providing excellent service, and led by owners Jake and Drew Billmeyer, who have taken over the reins from their father, Chris Billmeyer, Ben B. Schwartz & Sons continues to be a go-to company for produce by many.

Situated on the Michigan Produce Terminal in Detroit, the company’s distribution network reaches most of the United States and into Canada, and last year, the company expanded its reach further, making big inroads into Toronto.

The California Table Grape Commission added two marketing managers, Darlene Avila and Stephanie Soto, to the marketing team.

Avila joins the commission as the digital marketing manager and will focus on developing and implementing digital promotions in partnership with retail marketing teams and shopper apps offered by third party providers. She is a graduate of California State University-Fresno with a bachelor’s degree in business administration – marketing.

Growing broccoli in Florida has its challenges, as the climate can be unpredictable. Despite that, Smith’s Farm has worked hard to develop varieties and growing practices to minimize risk associated with wild weather fluctuations that can crop up during the season.

This year was no exception to those challenges, according to Tara Smith Vighetti, president of Smith Farms Sales, which just wrapped up its Florida broccoli production for the season.

FlowerTrials once again welcomes ornamental horticulture professionals from around the world in week 24. From June 13 to 16, no fewer than 60 breeders of pot and bedding plants will present their innovations, impressive product ranges and creative concepts. For growers, FlowerTrials showcases the latest novelties for the upcoming season with experts on hand to provide cultural support.