Next Generation Of Produce Industry Leaders To Gather In DC

WASHINGTON, DC – Young policymakers and up-and-coming produce industry leaders will unite for a fresh and unconventional look at advocacy at the 2012 Washington Public Policy Conference. Seven leaders—all under the age of 35—at the forefront of agricultural policy in Washington and rising in the industry, will appear on the Fresh Impact Panel at the October 1-3 conference. This influential and insightful panel joins United Fresh members to discuss the process of connecting with members of Congress and administration officials about produce industry priorities.

The Fresh Impact Panel speakers include:

•Chris Adamo
Majority Staff Director, Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, U.S. Senate

•Dottie Bond
Legislative Associate, The Russell Group

•Trista Etzig, PMP
Project Manager, Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, USDA

•Kasey Gillette
Policy Advisor for Agriculture, Senate Majority Leader Reid

•Joel Leftwich
Minority Deputy Staff Director, Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, U.S. Senate

•Nick Mascari
New Business Development, Indianapolis Fruit Company, Inc.

•Matt Mika
Director, Government Relations, Tyson Foods

“These leaders display their unbridled passion for the agriculture industry in the halls of Congress and truly represent the next generation of policymakers. Even with their youth, they have a seasoned ability to artfully communicate complex agricultural policy issues to lawmakers and constituents,” said Robert Guenther, United’s senior vice president of public policy. “Our members will find real benefit in hearing their fresh perspective on engaging policymakers and preparing more young leaders to build industry success.”

The Washington Public Policy Conference is the industry’s chance to participate in the policy making process in a forthright and powerful way. This year, the event features two days of strategic, face-to-face meetings with lawmakers and staff of congressional offices. Attendees will also hear from key administration officials and participate in candid and constructive dialogue with the president’s executive team. Market segment education sessions will also provide industry stakeholders the opportunity to evaluate progress made on priority issues. With produce industry leaders and our nation’s policymakers all in one place, the conference strengthens the industry’s voice on issues such as food safety, farm labor, nutrition and consumption and the 2012 Farm Bill.

For more information on the Produce Industry’s Most Powerful Public Policy Event, please contact Angela Tiwari at 202-303-3416 or visit the Washington Public Policy Conference website.

Founded in 1904, the United Fresh Produce Association serves companies at the forefront of the global fresh and fresh-cut produce industry, including growers, shippers, fresh-cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C. and Western Regional office in Salinas, Calif., United Fresh and its members work year-round to make a difference for the produce industry by driving policies that increase consumption of fresh produce, shaping critical legislative and regulatory action, providing scientific and technical leadership in food safety, quality assurance, nutrition and health, and developing educational programs and business opportunities to assist member companies in growing successful businesses. For more information, visit www.unitedfresh.org or call 202-303-3400.

Source: United Fresh Produce Association