Late Easter means more dollars for retailers
This year's late Easter means more dollars for retailers, according to Nat'l. Retail Federation's 2006 Easter Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey. NRF found that 77.6% of Americans plan to celebrate Easter, up from last year (75.9%). Total Easter spending is estimated to reach $12.63 billion in '06, a significant increase from the $9.6 billion spent in 2005. Consumers will be dedicating one-third of their Easter budget to food purchases ($36.44). Other items shoppers will be scooping up: clothing ($22.87), gifts ($18.62), candy ($16.65), flowers ($8.02), decorations ($6.36) and greeting cards ($6.51).

Compromised security could cut debit card use
A rash of fraudulent bank card transactions might prompt customers to choose credit over debit, according to a report in USA Today. Citibank, Wells Fargo and Bank of America have reissued some U.S. debit cards recently after a security breach allowed thieves to obtain bank card information, including some PINs. Studies show that debit transactions are actually about 15 times safer than credit sales. However, as news of security compromises spreads, customers might think it's safer to sign for bank card purchases.

Africanized honey bees on the move
Gardeners in Louisiana, Arkansas and Florida can add Africanized honey bees to their list of pest concerns. "Killer" bees showed up in these states last year, according to USDA-ARS. The bees' arrival in Florida was likely the result of human-assisted transport, with trucks, ships or railroad cars inadvertently bringing bees into the area. An updated map showing the spread of Africanized honey bees can be found on the ARS Web site.

Central Garden ups interest in Tech Pac
Central Garden & Pet Co. increased its equity interest in Tech Pac LLC by 60%. Tech Pac's brands include the insecticide Sevin, Over'nOut fire ant control and RooTone root stimulant. In February, Central acquired Gulfstream Home & Garden and its 20% interest in Tech Pac. As a result of the transaction announced last week, Central's interest in Tech Pac increased to 80%. Terms for the purchase of the additional 60% interest were not disclosed.

Am. Hort. Society receives large grant
Am. Hort. Society received a $18,000 grant from the Stanley Smith Hort. Trust. The grant will fund the schematic design of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Walk, part of the master plan for AHS's River Farm headquarters.

X-Factor contest winner selected
Congratulations to Michael Ehrhart of Millstone Lawn & Garden in Maplewood, N.J., who won the February X-Factor contest and received $500 worth of Goldsmith Seeds marketing materials. Enter the contest here.

Worth a visit
Retail consultant Ian Baldwin explains how setting up a plan can spell success for your future. Only on GreenBeam.com.