WASHINGTON, DC – At The Future of Agriculture two-day event this week, the White House and USDA honored a select few new and beginning ranchers and farmers as “Champions of Change.” Kristin Fritz Kubiszak of Brookside Farms, a grower for MBG Marketing, was one of only 15 national honorees.
Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack of the USDA congratulated Kristin and the other honorees. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Krysta Harden and Assistant to the President and Director of the Domestic Policy Council, Cecilia Munoz, also recognized them at a ceremony in the White House.
“It was a true privilege to represent the blueberry industry as a Champion of Change. Since we grow blueberries which are known for their great flavor and incredible health attributes, I was especially pleased to learn first-hand about some of the efforts by the First Lady to encourage children to eat a healthy, brighter array of fresh fruits and vegetables” said Kristin. “It was great to share the story our family blueberry farm. It has always been a passion of mine to educate others about what we do, and this was another great opportunity.”
Kristin is the retail manager for Brookside Farms, which is located in Paw Paw, Michigan. Her family is a fifth generation farm that distributes fresh blueberries through MBG’s cooperative marketing network under the Naturipe® brand, according to a press release.
Aside from working on the farm, Kristin sits on the board of directors for the Van Buren County Farm Bureau as Chair of the Promotion and Education Committee. With this position, she educates the community with trips to local schools, the Ag Venture tent at the local Youth Fair and other youth and consumer education programs, according to a press release.
“Kristin is another member of the Fritz family farming operation that makes us proud that they are part of our MBG & Naturipe families.” said Bob Hawk, President & CEO of MBG Marketing.
The honorees were also given a tour of the First Lady’s Garden at the White House by Sam Kass, President Obama’s Senior Policy Advisor for Nutrition Policy and Let’s Move Executive Director.
Congratulations on this honor, Kristin!
Terry Vorhees, the Executive Director for the Southeast Produce Council and true industry visionary, has passed away at the age of 64 after a brief battle with lung cancer. He was born June 2, 1950 in Logan, Ohio.
Before Terry’s claim to fame, he worked for a number of years with the California Tree Fruit Agreement until he and five others met in Atlanta in 1999 to form the Southeast Produce Council. Knowing how unique the produce industry was in the Southeast, Terry was instrumental in building the SEPC into what it is today. His devotion to the industry and ambition is greatly admired among his peers.
“I can remember reaching out to Terry, and he was so inviting to AndNowUKnow before we even had traction in the industry,” said Robert Lambert, CEO for AndNowUKnow. “Terry was very inclusive and thought outside the box. He was always looking for a better way to market, and I always admired that about him.”
“Terry was one of the most dynamic people I’ve ever met,” said Tommy Wilkins, Director of Sales and Business Development for Grow Farms Texas. “His vision on relationships and his passion for the industry was larger than life. His efforts were instrumental in not only what he did for the industry, but also giving back to the community. I commend his passion for the industry.”
“I remember meeting Terry at my first Southern Exposure show in 2009; he was, from the very start, an incredibly helpful and charming guy,” said Whit Grebitus, VP of Sales for AndNowUKnow. “His support for AndNowUKnow, as well as our involvement with the Southeast Produce Council, was invaluable.”
“Terry was certainly an inspiration to all of us. He kept us moving forward,” said John Shuman, President & Director of Sales for Shuman Produce. “The council was very successful, and its tremendous growth should be attributed to him.”
"He was a passionate, detail-oriented person. He was never one to be in the limelight,” said Andrew Scott, Director of Marketing and Business Development for Nickey Gregory. “He was a loving, caring father and husband – a great people person. We want to continue his legacy with the SEPC, and we’re going to make sure he’s recognized.”
Terry’s efforts extended past the industry as well. His work with the Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia, GA, and various food banks are commendable examples of his commitment to helping others and extending fresh produce to those in need.
Last June 18 – 19, the council held its inaugural Charity Golf Classic benefitting the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Braselton, GA at Château Élan, ultimately raising $50,000. It was later announced that the council would rename the tournament as the Terry Vorhees Charity Golf Classic to share his vision in creating the event and his commitment in giving back to the SEPC, Wilkins tells us.
Terry is survived by his wife Beverly, two brothers, a sister, his mother, and three grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are currently in process.
We will all remember and respect Terry for his integrity, passion, and devotion to the industry. He was certainly an inspiration to all of us. We would like to offer our deepest condolences to Terry’s family and friends.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - Three months after parting ways with former CEO Gregg Steinhafel, Target has announced the hiring of former Sam's Club and current PepsiCo executive Brian Cornell to lead the company going forward. Cornell's hiring is significant because he is the first outsider brought in to lead the retailing giant in Target's history. While this might seem like a radical move to some, Greg Melich, Head of Consumer Research at ISI Group said that this is exactly what Target needed most.
"Outside perspective is what Target needs, in our view, given the need to rebuild trust," he said.
Janney Capital Markets' Managing Director David Strasser revealed a similar opinion in an article by Barron's.
“We applaud this move,” he told Barron's. “Although Mr. Cornell was not at Wal-Mart for a long time, during that period, we did get to know him, and were impressed with where he was taking the division at the time...We believe bringing an outsider into the company with product and retail experience provides the right mix and background for Target.”
When he assumes his new position on August 12th, Cornell will certainly not face any shortage of tasks to accomplish. As ABC News reported, Target has suffered in recent fiscal quarters, first with the data breach and then with disappointing numbers from its Canadian expansion in which over-aggressiveness lost Target nearly $1 billion. Together with increasing pressure from competitors like Wal-Mart, this has led to Target's first annual profit decline in the last half decade, a trend which Cornell will be looking to reverse over the course of the next fiscal year.
While many have applauded Target's choice in Cornell, some investors are concerned that his lack of experience could make his transition to Target a difficult one.
Cowen and Company's Director Faye Landes and Research Associate Krista Zuber for example told Barron's “Cornell has no turnaround experience that we know of and has limited experience in the areas that Target explicitly stated in its 1Q14 call that the new CEO would focus on – Canadian retail and digital.”
As of 10:52am Thursday morning Target shares dipped 1.6% as Target investors reacted to this news.
Cornell however remains steadfast in his belief that he is the right man for the job of leading Target back to the profits and growth it has historically enjoyed.
"I'm already shopping for a new warm coat for next winter," he quipped to ABC.
Stay tuned to ANUK for any further updates on Target's plans going forward.
DES MOINES, IOWA - Hy-Vee is taking one step closer towards its long term goal of becoming a larger presence in the Midwestern retail market with the announcement of plans to build its second Twin Cities location in Oakdale, Minnesota. Hy-Vee is currently negotiating a contract to build a new, full-line supermarket in the downtown city area and local residents and politicians are excited to welcome Hy-Vee into their community.
“We could not be more delighted that Hy-Vee is choosing Oakdale for one of its first metro stores. Hy-Vee will be a wonderful addition to our city for years to come,” said Oakdale Mayor Carmen Sarrack.
Jay Marshall, Executive Vice President of Hy-Vee's eastern region seconded this enthusiasm.
“The City of Oakdale has embraced us, and we look forward to demonstrating the quality customer service, culinary expertise and health and wellness features that our stores offer,” he revealed in a company press release. “When we enter a community, we want to become part of that community. We’re excited about this new store allowing us the opportunity to build those relationships while serving residents’ grocery needs.”
According to a press release, Hy-Vee plans on ramping up this expansion in the immediate future, adding several new Twin Cities locations each year for the next several years.
These expansion plans come during a strong month for Hy-Vee in which the retailer was recently named as the 'First-Ever Regional Grocery Store Brand of the Year' by a Harris Poll of American consumers. Hy-Vee polled first among Midwestern retail chains because it “has strong Purchase Consideration scores and very 'connected consumers,' meaning they have strong feelings for the brand and believe it's a good fit for them," said Michael Treboni, Executive Vice President of Retail Professional Services at Nielsen.
Judging by their response to the new location, the residents of Oakdale would certainly agree with this sentiment it seems.
Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for any further updates on Hy-Vee's Midwestern expansion plans.
YAKIMA, WA - With demand for Washington state apples rising every year, Domex reportedly has a record sized apple crop on their hands this summer. Because of perfect growing conditions and pristine weather, the crop isn't just coming in bigger than ever, it's also early by a week.
“This year we're seeing everything come together,” said Domex grower Dave Gleason. “This has been a beautiful growing season. The weather's perfect and we've got excellent fruit that is sizing well. We've got a big crop this year, but we've also got all sizes of fruit available.”
With the crop coming in early, Domex currently expects all of its apple varieties to be available to retailers by September 1st.
“We're excited about this crop and things are coming together well...things look good and we just have a few weeks left until we start harvesting this year's crop,” Gleason commented.
The demand for Washington state apples has certainly risen in the last several years. In response to this increase, Gleason discussed how the Domex has both increased the number and quality of its orchards. According to a press release, it has also expanded its facilities for packaging, storing, and processing its apple crops.
Congratulations on a great looking summer crop Domex!
MONTEREY, CA - Along with the record-breaking year for July’s PMA Annual Foodservice Conference, the event hosted an array of new, innovative products and initiatives that continue to raise the bar in foodservice and retail. Here are a handful of my favorites.
Fresh Origins, a company whose portfolio offers an extensive variety of Micro Greens and Edible Flowers, showcased a new summer items. The company featured Micro Carrot Grass, a unique product that adds fresh carrot flavor to any recipe. Petite Sorrel Green Apple™ was also featured and presents a fresh, tart, green apple flavor profile with a distinct crunch. Fresh origins program also offers the edible Pink Begonia Flower, which brings a visually stunning, tart and juicy addition to menu items. Fresh Origins
Tanimura & Antle also recently introduced a new lettuce variety, George T s Special Colossal Romaine Heart. The new variety honors company co-founder George Tanimura, who is celebrating his 100th year in 2014. This new seed variety combines Iceberg and Romaine Hearts, and offers a superior flavor, improved sustainable value and impressive per-head yield. Tanimura & Antle
In addition, USA Onions brought a fresh new initiative to the table, as well as a great flavor experience to the foodservice floor. This year, USA Onions is promoting new recipes that provide an onion-packed twist on All-American comfort food. Sherise Jones served up Caramelized Red Onion and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwiches in Monterey; one of ten recipes that capture the flavor of comfort food enjoyed nationwide. Keep an eye out for Shrimp and Grits with Crispy Fried Onion Strings, Texas style Savory Onion Cornmeal Waffles with Jalapeno Honey, Maine Lobster Salad Rolls with Onions Buttery Croutons, and Manhattan Grilled Steak with Blue Cheese and Onion Sauce. I’ll be looking forward to Chicago deep dish pizza style grilled cheese as well. I always suggest adding Sriracha to everything if you need to take the spice up a notch. USA Onions
California Specialty Farms highlighted some great, versatile offerings. The company truly is “Where Produce Meets Art.” California Specialty’s "Heart Beets" are prepared with 3 kinds of beets: Purple, Golden and Candy Stripe, and also come combined with potatoes to make a Yin/Yang offering. They also dare to be visually intriguing with potatoes in the same heart creation, along with Stars, Shamrocks, Yin/Yang designs and other shapes. The company packs them in 12-count cryovac sheets, so that virtually any size restaurant or end-user can order just what they need. Retail is available in a 4 count clamshell. Each design is 1 ounce in weight and can be simply heated throughout and served. These are perfect for weddings, graduations, holidays, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and much more. California Specialty Farms
Classic Salads brought new kale products to the table this year, and include the company’s Winter Mix; a great source of vitamins A & C, foliate, iron, potassium, and vitamin K. The brassica family consists of broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and other hearty greens that are included in this mix. The Chopped Kale mix is another new offering and a great source of iron and calcium, as well as vitamins K, A & C, folate and protein. This mix offers several varieties of kale. Packaging for these items include foodservice conventional 2# bags as well as organic 2# re-sealable clamshells. In addition, Classic Salads has introduced organic 5 oz. clamshells showcased under the "Classic Salads" brand. Kale is trending everywhere and Classic Salads is staying at the top of the game. Classic Salads
Check out even more great PMA highlights in this PMA TV episode:
Next up for me, PMA Fresh Summit. See you there.
WASHINGTON D.C. - The USDA has cited Nogales, AZ based Triple R Distributing for failure to pay $334,261 in debts to four produce sellers, a violation of PACA law.
As a result of this citation Triple R Distributing is barred from doing business in the produce industry until June 28, 2015, after which it will become eligible to apply for a new PACA license. In addition, Daniel A. Romero, Triple R Distributing's principle, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until that same date. After June 28th a company may employ him with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.
USDA is required to publish the finding that a business has committed willful, repeated, and flagrant violations of the PACA as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business during the violation period. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA-approval.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 4,600 claims filed under PACA involving more than $87 million. This is just one more way USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
WASHINGTON D.C. - The USDA has cited San Antonio, TX based Chaparral Fruit Sales for failure to pay $738,006 in debts to seven produce sellers, a violation of PACA law.
As a result of this citation Chaparral Fruit Sales is barred from doing business in the produce industry until June 3, 2016 after which it will become eligible to apply for a new PACA license. In addition, Amadeo C. Lopez, Chaparral's principle, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until that same date. After June 3rd a company may employ him with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.
USDA is required to publish the finding that a business has committed willful, repeated, and flagrant violations of the PACA as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business during the violation period. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA-approval.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 4,600 claims filed under PACA involving more than $87 million. This is just one more way USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
WENATCHEE, WA – Big news has come down from Washington State with Stemilt's announcement that it has begun its harvest for its line of organic peaches and nectarines. Harvest season is a week early this year, coming on the heels of a growing season in which Stemilt Marketing Director Roger Pepperl described as 'absolutely ideal' for stonefruit crops.
“This is the sixth season that our entire peach and nectarine crop is grown and certified as organic. Consumer demand for organic fruit is very high, and...The fruit looks and tastes incredible. Vibrant colors, juicy and sweet flavors with a good amount of acid. Our focus on tree-ripened fruit ensures a consistent level of maturity to further enhance the consumer eating experience,” he said.
According to a press release, Stemilt has been growing all-organic peaches and nectarines since 2007. Its first harvest came in 2009 and was met with such success that Stemilt Growers has never looked back.
“The move to organics brought our trees into balance from a horticultural standpoint, and balanced trees deliver fruit with higher sugars and acids resulting in a better eating experience for consumers,” said Jill Douglas, General Manager of Douglas Fruit, the principal growers behind Stemilt's summer peach and nectarine crop. “We also benefit from growing peaches and nectarines in the best locale. The Columbia Basin and Tri Cities area of Washington State has a volcanic-rich soil and is known for having long, warm summer days that build the fruit’s flavor and cool nights to reenergize trees. The perfect combination that is only enhanced by farming the fruit with natural methods.”
According to a press release, these stonefruits will be sold under Stemilt's Artisan Organics label and will be available to retailers from late July to mid-September. In addition to the excellent quality of their product, Stemilt also offers a full line of merchandising materials to aid their retail partners, such as pop-up displays and signage featuring the Douglas family's commitment to organic farming.
Congratulations to another excellent season for Stemilt!
JUPITER, FL - Smart Traxx Go, the latest product offering by Locus Traxx, is a product that shippers and distributors are going to get excited about. Industry veterans are probably well familiar with Locus Traxx by now. Its Smart Traxx Portable technology, housed in its iconic yellow suitcase, has become a mainstay for logistics professionals wanting to glean more insights into what's happening to their product during the shipping process.
Smart Traxx Go takes this technology into the cloud, doing away with reverse logistics and giving produce shippers temperature, security, and location information in real time through wireless cloud based services.
"It's very straightforward," David Benjamin, Locus Traxx CEO tells ANUK. "Pull the tab, place it in the truck, in with the container. It provdes real time information reports from inside the container or the truck, through the newtork, to the cloud. We give you real time information."
Check out our above video for a first hand look at this new technology and what it could mean for you and your logistics operations.