The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) held its annual membership meeting on November 2. Attendees gathered at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort to talk about activities for the year, upcoming efforts and to hear about the efforts of the board and staff. The meeting was held just prior to the start of the 1st Annual SouthWest International Produce Expo (SWIPE) and the 54th Annual Golf Tournament. As part of the meeting, FPAA members elected new directors to the board and celebrated the Member of the Year and the Pillar of the Industry.
FPAA Chairman Rod Sbragia of Crown Jewels Produce led the meeting and talked about the importance of member participation on the board and throughout the year in various FPAA meetings and events.
The FPAA is a membership organization, and the guidance of the Board on behalf of members is valuable for the success of the organization. The FPAA extends gratitude to all members who have volunteered to serve on the board.
Attendees gathered at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort to talk about activities for the year, upcoming efforts and to hear about the efforts of the board and staff.
The election results for the 2023 FPAA board members are:
Distributor Board Members (Re-elected for two-year term):
- Juan Manuel Ibarra, Marengo Foods
- James Martin, Wilson Produce
- Guillermo Martinez, Frello Fresh
- Walter Ram, The Giumarra Companies
- Jose Luis Obregon, IPR Fresh
Newly Elected Distributor Board Members (two-year term):
- Rafael Roiz, TruFresh
- JC Myers, Sunfed
- Jorge Donnadieu, Fresh Farms
Associate Board Members (Newly elected for one-year term):
- Jorge Ruiz, Agri-Packing
- Mary Paz, Robinson Fresh
Division Chairs:
- JJ Badillo, Fresh International (Re-elected as FPAA Tomato Division Chairman)
- John Pandol, Pandol Brothers (Re-elected as FPAA Grape Division Chairman)
- Chris Ciruli, Ciruli Brothers (Re-elected as FPAA Mango Division Chairman)
The following members will continue to serve with one year remaining on their term:
- Gonzalo Avila, Malena Produce
- Enrique Gracia, Flavor King
- Demetrio Kyriakis, Nogales CHB
- Martin Ley, Shipley Sales
- Kyle McGrath, Tricar Sales
- Lesley Sykes, The Sykes Company
- Scott Vandervoet, Vandervoet & Associates
The FPAA appreciates the retiring board members for their contributions:
- Omar Losolla, Seeded Produce
- Juan Pablo Molina, Fresh Farms
- Alex Suarez, Suarez Brokers
- Mikee Suarez, MAS Melons & Grapes
- Chuck Thomas, Thomas Produce
Member of the Year and Pillar of the Industry Awards:
The FPAA also announced two prestigious awards presented at the annual meeting. Raquel Espinoza of Produce House and FPAA Chairwoman-elect has been named “Member of the Year” in recognition of her contributions and dedication to the industry.
In addition, Emilia Gotsis was posthumously awarded the “Pillar of the Industry” honor, recognizing her as a pioneer in the fresh produce sector, whose impact and leadership have been pivotal in shaping the industry.
For more information:
Lance Jungmeyer
Allison Moore
Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
Tel: +1 (520) 287-2707
http://www.freshfrommexico.com/