WASHINGTON — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Monday that $30 million is being rolled out in research grants to respond to citrus greening, which continues to threaten the $9 billion citrus industry in Florida.

CHARLOTTE, NC — About 75 industry professionals from 10 states gathered here Feb. 4 for PMA Tech Talks to learn about emerging technology. “Food production needs to go up 70 percent in the next 10 years, and change is already upon us,” said Cathy Burns, PMA president.

Allen I. Bildner, the former chairman and chief executive officer of Kings Super Markets (now Kings Food Market), died Feb. 5. He was 91.

The Bildner family owned and operated the supermarket chain for 52 years until 1988, when it was sold to Marks & Spencer. Kings was founded in 1936 in Long Island, NY, and was originally a value format, employing the slogan “Never Undersold.” The focus was broadened to include good customer service when Mr. Bildner took over operations from his father in 1956.

Raymond Bartolacci Sr., a founder of the Laneco supermarket chain in eastern Pennsylvania, died Feb. 2 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He was 91.

Tasteful Selections is educating current and future customers alike about the benefits of the product line with the “Small potatoes. Big opportunities.” campaign, which reinforces Tasteful Selections’ position as a leader in the potato category.

Tasteful Selections’ recent “Small potatoes. Distinct advantages.” messaging builds on the brand’s proven track record for success. Data released by Tasteful Selections is now brought to life by candid feedback from its retail customers.

Vidalia onion growers and industry affiliates packed the Hawk’s Point Country Club in Vidalia, GA, Feb. 7 for the Vidalia Onion Committee’s annual Denim & Diamonds Banquet & Awards Ceremony, celebrating the end of another successful year and the approach of a new season, which will start in April.