Chelan Fresh Marketing, based in Chelan, WA, hired JACK SULLIVAN as its assistant production manager and purchasing agent. His responsibilities include coordinating packinglines based on customer needs and packinghouse supply.

Prior to joining Chelan Fresh, Mr. Sullivan worked at Brewster, WA-based Gebbers Farms. He has been in the produce industry for five years.

WASHINGTON — Specialty crop producers joined a campaign-style rally near Congress, Sept. 12, trying to ratchet up the pressure on lawmakers to vote for a five-year farm bill slated to expire Sept. 30.

The discovery of a foodborne illness issue potentially related to a Mexican mango brand in the United States and Canada in late August resulted in quick action by the importer as well as the National Mango Board, which many are crediting with minimizing the effect of the issue and allowing the industry to move forward without devastating results.

WASHINGTON — Produce representatives are coming to Washington next month at a key time to lobby for a five-year farm bill, and the best bet for a new farm policy may come during a lame-duck session, said Randy Russell, founding partner of The Russell Group and legislative counsel for United Fresh Produce Association, during a Sept. 12 webinar.

Produce Departments across the country will be a little rosier this fall when Klondike Brands rolls out its second year of support for the National Breast Cancer Foundation by turning packaging for Klondike Rose and Klondike Goldust fresh potatoes pink.

This apple season, Columbia Marketing International will showcase its organic apples, sold under the “DAISY GIRL” brand, in both traditional two-pound poly bags as well as a newly designed two-pound pouch-style bag that stands up. Vice President of Marketing Bob Mast said the pouch-style bag is clear and presents product in a rich manner in displays.