Julia Nellis serves as the Social Media Manager for Western Growers, where she is responsible for cultivating and maintaining the Association’s social media presence. She has experience with local government, campaign management, and social media strategies. Julia received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Political Science and Communications, respectively, from Minnesota State University, Mankato. When […]
When Vincenzo Ricchiuti left Italy in 1914, it’s likely that he didn’t expect he’d find the perfect Mediterranean climate for farming in Fresno, California. Yet, the region’s ideal conditions allowed him to explore sustainable farming and crop diversification, eventually expanding into growing grapes and figs. Fast forward to today, the Ricchiuti family farm has grown into a thriving…
Lately, conversations are dominated by the latest gadgets and cutting-edge tech trends. Questions like, ‘Did you get the new iPhone?’ or ‘When are you getting an EV?’ have become standard in our daily conversations. While these innovations undeniably shape our modern world, we rarely turn our attention to the technological breakthroughs that sustain us – figuratively and literally. The…
It's not too late to be a part of the 98th Western Growers Annual Meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona, from November 3-6. This four-day event is the premier gathering for key players in the fresh produce industry. In addition to being in great company, attendees can look forward to exceptional networking experiences and some of the best entertainment around. Join us for an exciting lineup of…
The 2024 Western Growers Annual Meeting is just around the corner at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. To help you get ready for an enjoyable stay, we’ve provided some key details below. For the full schedule, guest bios and more, click here. Registration Collect your name badge, official program, Annual Meeting materials and purchase additional event tickets at…
Join us on the courts for the Second Annual Pickleball Tournament at the 98th Western Growers Annual Meeting! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle, all skill levels are welcome. We’ll kick off the day with a warm-up and beginner session from 8:00 to 8:30 AM, and the tournament will begin at 8:30. Participants will have plenty of chances to play and skill levels may be…
Amy Trask, a trailblazing sports executive and analyst, will be the keynote speaker at the Chair’s Lunch during the Western Growers 98th Annual Meeting, taking place from Nov. 3-6 at the JW Marriot Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Recognized as the NFL’s first female CEO with the Oakland Raiders, Amy has shattered glass ceilings and set new standards for women in sports.…
Don’t miss valuable insights on navigating the post-Chevron landscape at the second featured session of this year’s Western Growers Annual Meeting. A panel of administrative law experts will discuss how the ruling has shifted power dynamics between courts and federal agencies, and its implications for the enforcement of environmental, H-2A, labor and employment regulations. Panelists…
The 2024 Desert Difference AgTech Conference in Yuma, Arizona, on November 13-14, is a must-attend event this fall. Kicking off with an in-field demonstration, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with growers, industry leaders, startups and researchers while exploring advancements in automation, sustainability and innovations in desert agriculture. Key speakers from Western Growers…
Join us for the first featured session at this year's Western Growers Annual Meeting, where industry leaders will explore the future of sustainable packaging in agriculture. Our expert panel will dive into the latest advancements in sustainable packaging, including plastic reduction, recyclability, end-of-life solutions and lightweighting. With a focus on consumer demand and market data, the…
Join us on Monday, November 4, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., for a chance to hear from award-winning journalist and author Bari Weiss. Bari is the founder and editor of The Free Press and host of the podcast Honestly. Her accolades include the LA Press Club’s 2021 Daniel Pearl Award for Courage and Integrity in Journalism, the Per Ahlmark award in recognition of her moral courage and Reason…
With more than eight billion people on our planet, we’re all a blend of diverse histories, cultures, environments and jobs. Despite the many challenges life may present, one universal need connects us all: the desire for nutritious, wholesome food. While we all depend on fresh produce, not everyone has the background or means to grow it. For those fortunate enough to do so, they have a…
The September/October 2024 digital issue of the Western Grower & Shipper magazine is now available online. This issue features the articles "The Larger Meaning of PAGA Reform," "A Front Row Seat to Leadership and Personal Character," "Growing for Sustainability" and more. The cover article spotlights WG Annual Meeting Award of Honor recipient Sonny Rodriguez, President and CEO of The…
The 2024 Western Growers Annual Growers Cup golf tournament will take place on Wednesday, November 6, at the beautiful Camelback Golf Club's Ambiente Course, designed by Jason Straka. The 7,221-yard, par 72 course is set among rolling fairways and the scenic Camelback foothills. Join us for a fun-filled day of golf, starting with a putting contest. As foursomes hit the links with an 8 a.m.…
Registration is now open for the 2024 Organic Grower Summit, taking place Dec. 4-5, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa in Monterey, Calif. Co-hosted by Western Growers and Farm Progress, the Organic Grower Summit brings together producers and suppliers to explore the latest advancements and trends in organic farming. This annual event provides a valuable opportunity for…
Mentalist Oz Pearlman will headline the Award of Honor Dinner Gala at the 2024 Western Growers Annual Meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona. The evening will celebrate Sonny Rodriguez, President and CEO of The Grower’s Company, as this year’s Award of Honor recipient. Pearlman is a world-renowned mentalist with nearly 30 years of experience, making him one of the most sought-after performers in…
An Arizona judge ruled against an initiative to raise the state’s minimum wage to $18 an hour on Aug. 8, just hours after backers, Raise the Wage AZ, announced they would abandon their effort to send this issue to voters. This decision would avoid a lawsuit from the Arizona Restaurant Association, who claimed the petition lacked sufficient valid signatures. Despite Raise the Wage AZ filing…
Western Growers is excited to welcome Laura Ling as the opening keynote speaker for the 98th Annual Meeting, taking place from Nov. 3-6 at the JW Marriot Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. Laura Ling is an award-winning journalist, author and media executive with a commitment to storytelling and investigating global issues. Her extensive media career includes roles such as Director of…
Don't miss your chance to secure tickets to the Western Growers 98th Annual Meeting at a discounted rate. You can save $300 when you buy your ticket before Friday, Aug. 30. The Western Growers Annual Meeting, taking place on Nov. 3- 6 in Scottsdale, Arizona, brings growers, shippers and processors together with allies and supporters of the fresh produce industry. Secure your spot today…
The Western Growers Women program is excited to announce the 2024-2025 course catalog! Building on the success of last year's relaunch, this year's offerings have expanded to include even more courses and events. Participants will have access to a variety of virtual and in-person courses designed to support their professional growth and pave the way for influential leadership roles within the…
Secure your early bird pricing for the Western Growers Leave Law Event on September 12, 2024, in Oceanside! This one-day workshop is tailored for business owners, c-suite executives and HR professionals looking to enhance their skills in managing employee leave laws and fostering a discrimination-free workplace. Register by August 15 to lock in the discounted rate. Click here for more…