Simonian Fruit Co. in Fowler, CA, which grows, packs and ships an assortment of California tree fruit and grapes, will start off the grape season with some specialty grapes, according to Jeff Simonian, vice president of sales.

“We will have the red Champagne grapes” beginning the week following the Fourth of July, Simonian told The Produce News. Those will be followed a week later with some green Champagne grapes. “That is the front part of our grape deal.”

Sage Fruit announced the release of an exciting new product line that will feature Marvel characters.

NatureSweet Tomatoes announced the return of the Glorys Homegrown Tomato & Chef’s Challenge tour for 2014 on July 28. The contests will put green thumbs and cooking skills to the test with four events beginning Aug. 9 and concluding Sept. 6.

Tanimura & Antle introduced a new lettuce variety, George T's Special Colossal Romaine Heart, in honor of company co-founder George Tanimura, who is celebrating his 100th year in 2014.

Driscoll's once again partnered with Wegmans Food Markets to sponsor the eighth annual Strawberry Days fundraiser to benefit The Children's Home Society of New Jersey. The three-day fundraising event aims to promote a healthy summer snack while raising awareness and critical funds for the at-risk babies, children and families of New Jersey.

Chuck Sinks, senior produce specialist at Associated Wholesale Grocers in Kansas City, KS, married Caitlin Prentiss June 28 in St. Charles, IL, just west of Chicago. Sinks, 28, started working for AWG in August 2013; his wife is a third grade school teacher. The couple, who live in Overland Park, KS, honeymooned on the Caribbean island of Jamaica.