Naturipe Farms launched “The Very Berry Month of May” promotion and sweepstakes earlier this month, and it will continue through May 31. Each week of May is dedicated to one specific berry: strawberries from May 5-11, raspberries from May 12-18, blackberries from May 19-25 and blueberries from May 26-31.

The North Carolina blueberry season is ramping up, and signs are pointing to a favorable season in 2014. “Last year’s harvest was cut short by the excessive amount of rain that we had,” said Rod Bangert, general manager of the Carolina Blueberry Association. “I am hopeful that our production will be 30 percent higher than last season.”

The association, founded in 1941, is located in Garland, NC. Bangert said the cooperative has 24 members.

On behalf of Safeway Inc. shareholders, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Safeway, its board of directors, Albertson's LLC, Saturn Acquisition Merger Sub Inc. and Cerberus Capital Management L.P. In March, Safeway and Albertsons announced a $9 billion merger agreement that was unanimously approved by Safeway's board of directors.

Produce consultancy FreshXperts will offer consulting services at the United Fresh and FMI 2014 trade shows, co-located at Chicago's McCormick Place, June 10-13.

First-time clients who schedule an appointment in advance are eligible for a free 30-minute initial consultation during the shows.

This year, Turbana and its social foundation, Fundauniban, joined forces with the Rotary Club of Uraba and 50 other entities, along with surgeons, anesthesiologists and specialists from the United States and Colombia to provide free surgeries for economically challenged individuals suffering from cleft lips and split palates in Uraba, Colombia.

North Carolina sweet potato and vegetable grower Burch Farms announced the launch of its redesigned website BurchFarmsNC.com. The site reflects Burch’s passion for farming, as well as provides information regarding its sweet potato and vegetable product line.