A few weeks ago, my husband’s uncle Sam passed away. The funeral was a beautiful, caring expression by his friends and family. There was, however, one very unexpected product placement: a single can of Pepsi. Sam loved his Pepsi so much that his wife, Harriett, placed a can in the casket with him. I don’t think any of us who attended this beautiful service filled with stories of innocent pranks and Pepsi-induced fun will ever look at a can and not think lovingly of uncle Sam and his kid-like approach to life.

With more than 1,700 registrants, a sold-out trade show featuring more than 150 exhibitors and a robust educational program, the 2022 Organic Produce Summit was an unmitigated success.

Western Growers will honor California agricultural icon John Harris with the 2022 Award of Honor. The Award of Honor is Western Growers’ highest recognition of achievement and is given to individuals who have contributed extensively to the agricultural community.

The Kroger Co. will offer more Americans delivery through the addition of spoke facilities in Nashville, TN, and Maywood, IL. Working in conjunction with nearby fulfillment centers, Kroger Delivery will now reach customers in greater Nashville and the Chicago metro area.

Avocados From Mexico is a big hit at concession stands across the country. Finding delicious and fresh foods at sports arenas has never been easier thanks to newly rebranded AvoEats by Avocados From Mexico. Because 77 percent of consumers prefer fresh avocados, the #AlwaysGood brand is stepping up its fresh guac game with deliciously innovative, avocado-focused twists on concession classics, expanding current franchises and activations in 2022 to score big with avo-lovers.

The fireworks have flown, baseball is at its halfway point and mid-July means the start of the California table grape season. Jared Lane, vice president of sales at Grapeman Farms and his team are excited to kick off the domestic operation.

“We began picking right after the 4th of July holiday, starting with a couple different varieties — we will ramp up more and more over the coming weeks, getting into our peak production in August,” said Lane.