Joe (Giuseppe) Marchini, who founded California-based J. Marchini Farms specializing in radicchio and Italian specialties, died Dec. 28 surrounded by family. He was 84.

C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc. has initiated a leadership transition, naming Scott Anderson, chair of the board of directors, as the interim CEO. Bob Biesterfeld has stepped down as president and CEO and as a member of the board.

Paul J. DiMare Sr., president of DiMare Inc., died Dec. 30 at the age of 81.

Mr. DiMare Sr. was born April 14, 1941, in Cambridge, MA. He attended Georgetown University in Washington, DC, 1958-59 before leaving to join the family business.

AppHarvest Inc. named AppHarvest Board Member Tony Martin as its chief operating officer, effective immediately. He will retain his board seat, and as COO he will lead efforts to optimize production and revenue across the AppHarvest four-farm network that now includes 165 acres under glass.

As the new year kicks off and resolutions are top of mind, it's a great time to try out some new, healthy recipes, like the Little Smoochies Citrus Salad using Smoochies citrus from Consalo Family Farms. With healthy ingredients, this two-step recipe will brighten your day.

Superfresh Growers started the new year with the release of a new pear variety, Mardi Gras, which offers a sweet and juicy eating experience. The pear will be available in February 2023.

The company said Mardi Gras pears will stand out on the shelf with an elongated bottle shape and natural russet over a green background. It said the very sweet, buttery and juicy pear will melt in your mouth at peak ripeness. It is a medium-sized winter pear. The Conference pear, Europe’s favorite variety, is a parent of the Mardi Gras pear.