The California Fresh Fruit Association kicked off its new fiscal year on Tuesday, March 15, during the annual membership meeting at the 86th annual meeting in Laguna Beach, California. The event featured the election of the board of directors and chairman, as well as industry and committee updates.
The board of directors is made up of 35 men and women from operations located across California. Wayde Kirschenman, Kirschenman Enterprises, Inc, was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors for the 2022/23 fiscal year. The organization’s officers are nominated to serve for a one-year period and are selected by a committee of past Board Chairs. The full slate of officers includes:
- Chair: Wayde Kirschenman, Kirschenman Enterprises, Kern County-based diversified farming operation.
- First Vice Chair: Melissa Frank, Wonderful Orchards, Kern County-based diversified farming operation
- Secretary/Treasurer: Louis Pandol, Pandol Bros, Inc, Delano-based fresh table grape shipper
The association honored past president Barry Bedwell with the prestigious Mentor’s Award, which is bestowed to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the fresh grape, berry and tree fruit communities through their leadership in the industry. Dean Thonesen, of Riverwest Farming, and John Giumarra, Jr. of Giumarra Vineyards, were honored posthumously as the 2020 and 2021 Mentor’s Award recipients.
The association and the California Table Grape Commission presented a special award to the Parnagian family for their service to the industry. Dennis Parnagian accepted the recognition on behalf of the family and Fowler Packing Company.
The annual industry workshop featured three panel discussions focusing on redistricting, water and pesticide use. Each panel was represented by industry experts that offered insight into key issues facing the California agricultural industry.
With over 200 people in attendance, the 86th annual meeting provided the opportunity for membership to gather for the first time in three years. The association leadership and staff look forward to serving the fresh fruit industry throughout the 2022/23 fiscal year.
