SALINAS, CA -- A relentless stretch of rainfall has backed up harvesting and planting operations in the Salinas Valley that may have implications in the marketplace in months to come.

Sambrailo Packaging in Watsonville, CA, will introduce a new clamshell container line at the International Fresh-cut Produce Association convention and exposition in Baltimore that it believes will offer many benefits to users throughout the distribution chain.

Tony Cadiente, vice president of new business development/ marketing for Sambrailo, said that the new addition to the company's MIXIM line, known as Snap Flap, is unique for its one-piece construction. The advantages of that construction are numerous.

WASHINGTON -- Expect to see an expanded conference program focusing on technical issues such as packaging and food safety, but also a new attention to business management at the April 26-29 International Fresh-cut Produce Association meeting in Baltimore.

San Francisco-based Sundia Corp. announced that Sunkist Growers Chief Executive Officer Jeff Gargiulo has joined the company as its chairman of the board of directors and advisors.

Brad Oberwager, CEO and founder of Sundia, told The Produce News that Mr. Gargiulo's role would be a "strategic" one. "Someone like Jeff doesn't have to put in 100 hours a week to have an impact," Mr. Oberwager said.

The following are the main points to the recently announced proposed merger of the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association and the International Fresh-cut Produce Association.

--- Current United President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Stenzel will retain those titles for the new United Fresh Produce Association. Current IFPA President Jerry Welcome will become executive vice president of business development.

Jan DeLyser, vice president of marketing for the California Avocado Commission in Irvine, CA, was elected chairman of the Produce for Better Health Foundation's board of trustees at its 2006 annual meeting earlier this month in San Francisco. Ms. DeLyser most recently served as vice chairman of the organization.

The board of trustees recognized the service of outgoing 2005 Chairman of the Board David Parker, director of marketing for Fruit Patch Sales in Dinuba, CA, who remains on the executive committee as immediate past chairman.