The Washington Conference

SHAPING A BETTER BUSINESS FUTURESeptember 8-10, 2014

CHAIRMAN’S WELCOMESEPTEMBER 8, 2014

I am so pleased to welcome you to The Washington Conference. I personally thank you for making the commitment to spend the next few days with us here in DC as we work to shape a better business future for the produce industry!

Together, we will face the critical issues affecting our industry. We’ll hear from nationally recognized nutrition leaders who will encourage us to continue fighting to keep fresh fruits and vegetables in our kids’ school meals. We’ll continue to champion our need to modernize immigration policy. By bringing your voice to Washington and demanding that your Members of Congress find solutions for the challenges facing our companies, we can make a difference for the entire industry.

While we’ll be spending time on Capitol Hill, this week is also an opportunity for our industry to continue the connections and relationships we all value through interactive education and networking events. Our opening night party on Monday overlooking the US Capitol from the rooftop of Charlie Palmer Steak especially will be a Washington experience not to be missed!

Together, we will create a stronger produce industry! Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

RON CARKOSKIPresident and CEO Four Seasons Family of Companies

TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 Schedule at a Glance 4 Sponsors 10 Detailed Schedule of Events 14 Fresh Festival Exhibitors 15 Chairman’s Roundtable Contributors 16 Let’s Move! Salad Bars to Schools Supporters 20 Rising Leaders Seminar 22 Connecting Policy Issues to Your

Business Education Sessions 26 Issues Brief

Front Pocket Keynote Speakers Back Pocket Congressional Visits Information

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCEMONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2014

7:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Registration Open Regency Foyer, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Noon – 5:00 p.m. NEW Rising Leaders Seminar (Application Required) Regency A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. New Member & First-Time Attendee Welcome (Invitation Only) Rooftop Terrace, Charlie Palmer Steak

6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. NEW Opening Party on Rooftop Terrace Overlooking the Capitol Rooftop Terrace, Charlie Palmer Steak

7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Leadership Alumni Organization Dinner* (Invitation Only) Alcove, Charlie Palmer Steak

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014


8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Opening General Session Breakfast Regency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

9:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Connecting Policy Issues to Your Business Education Sessions Columbia ABC, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Noon – 1:30 p.m. General Session Luncheon: Why Fighting for Healthier School Meals Is So Important Regency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

2:00 p.m. Produce March on Capitol Hill Group Photo Capitol Reflecting Pool, U.S. Capitol Building

2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. March on Capitol Hill: U.S. House of Representatives Congressional Meetings

5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Fresh Festival on Capitol Hill Longworth Cafeteria, Longworth House Office Building

7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. United FreshPAC Reception & Dinner* National Republican Club of Capitol Hill

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2014


7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. General Session Breakfast Regency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. United Fresh Forum at U.S. Food and Drug Administration Auditorium, Harvey Wiley Building, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, College Park, MD

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. March on Capitol Hill: U.S. Senate Congressional Meetings

Noon – 2:00 p.m. Closing Luncheon and General Session: An Insider’s Look at the 2014 Elections Regency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

2:15 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. NEW Post Conference Tour* Agricultural Research Center, National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), USDA, Beltsville, MD

* Separate ticket required.

United Fresh · THE WASHINGTON CONFERENCE · 5

http://www.unitedfresh.org

THANK YOUPLATINUM

GOLD

6

TO OUR 2014 WASHINGTON CONFERENCE SPONSORS

SILVER

BRONZE



2014 WASHINGTON CONFERENCE SPONSORED EVENTS

COMPANY SPONSORSHIP

Amcor Flexibles United Fresh Board of Directors Dinner

Apio, Inc. Tuesday General Session Luncheon Co-Sponsor

Atlas Pacific Engineering Company Conference Portfolio Advertiser

Avocados From Mexico Conference Portfolio Advertiser

Bayer CropScience Conference Portfolio Advertiser

Bunzl, Inc. Conference Portfolio Advertiser

Cabbage, Inc. Conference Portfolio Advertiser

California Giant Berry Farms Opening Party Co-Sponsor

Chiquita Brands, Inc. Opening General Session Breakfast Co-Sponsor

Crescent Fruit and Vegetable, LLC New Member & First Time Attendee Welcome Co-Sponsor

Del Monte Fresh Produce United FreshPAC Dinner

Famous Software New Member & First Time Attendee Welcome Co-Sponsor

Four Seasons Family of Companies Fresh Festival Produce Delivery

Fox Packaging Fresh Festival Bags

Fresh Cut Magazine Platinum Sponsor

Frey Farms Wednesday General Session Breakfast Co-Sponsor

Fruit Growers Supply Company United Fresh Board of Directors Meeting

Grimmway Enterprises Inc. Conference Hotel Key Cards

IFCO Systems, N.A. Conference Badges

L&M Fresh Produce Conference Portfolio Advertiser

Mann Packing Company Conference Lanyards

Meister Media Opening General Session Breakfast Co-Sponsor

North Bay Produce, Inc. Conference Portfolio Advertiser

The Packer Wednesday Breakfast General Session Co-Sponsor

Paramount Citrus Tuesday General Session Luncheon Co-Sponsor

Produce Business Opening Party Co-Sponsor

Produce Careers, Inc. Conference Portfolio Advertiser

The Produce News Platinum Sponsor

Sunkist Opening Party Co-Sponsor

Tanimura & Antle Closing General Session Luncheon

Volm Companies, Inc. Conference Portfolio Advertiser

Westlake Produce Company Conference Portfolio Advertiser

8

SCHEDULE OF EVENTSMONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2014

7:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Registration OpenRegency Foyer, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Conference Badges Sponsored by: IFCO Systems, N.A.

Conference Hotel Key Cards Sponsored by: Grimmway Enterprises Inc.

Conference Lanyards Sponsored by: Mann Packing Company

Noon – 5:00 p.m. NEW Rising Leaders Seminar (Application Required)Regency A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Take your career to the next level with this new event designed for up and coming produce industry leaders. This program will focus on how public policy impacts the produce industry and how individuals can serve as advocates for their companies. Expert speakers will offer advice on how you can play a critical role in shaping public policy.

For more information on the Rising Leaders Seminar, see page 20.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:Mark Sanborn, President, Sanborn & Associates, Inc.

SPEAKERS:Ron Carkoski, CEO, Four Seasons Family of Companies, and Chairman of the Board, United Fresh Produce AssociationDavid Durkin, United Fresh Regulatory Counsel, Partner, OFW LawRobert Guenther, Senior Vice President, Public Policy, United Fresh Produce AssociationBo Harmon, Vice President of Political Affairs, BIPAC Mary Beth Hart, Director, Grassroots Services, BIPACRandy Russell, United Fresh Legislative Counsel, The Russell GroupRepresentative Aaron Schock (R-IL), Co-founder, Congressional Future Caucus, U.S. House of RepresentativesTom Stenzel, President & CEO, United Fresh Produce Association

5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. New Member & First-Time Attendee Welcome (Invitation Only)Rooftop Terrace, Charlie Palmer Steak

Co-sponsored by: Crescent Fruit and Vegetable, LLC Famous Software

Join us at this special reception to welcome our newest members and first-time conference attendees. Make new contacts and learn about how you can get more involved with United Fresh.

6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. NEW Opening Party on Rooftop Terrace Overlooking the Capitol Rooftop Terrace, Charlie Palmer Steak

Co-Sponsored by: California Giant Berry Farms Produce Business Sunkist

This year’s opening party is bigger and better than ever before! Enjoy one of the best vantage points in the city on the Rooftop Terrace of Charlie Palmer Steak while networking with produce industry friends and partners.

Charlie Palmer Steak is a short walk from the Hyatt. Please use the 101 Constitution Avenue entrance to access the rooftop.

7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Leadership Alumni Organization Dinner (Invitation Only)Alcove, Charlie Palmer Steak

The United Fresh Leadership Alumni Organization Board invites all leadership alumni and their spouses to the 2014 Fall Leadership Alumni Dinner.

Located in the main Charlie Palmer Steak restaurant.

10

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014


8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Opening General Session BreakfastRegency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Co-Sponsored by: Chiquita Brands, Inc. Meister Media Worldwide

Come together to hear from key leaders who are at the center of discussions that shape our industry’s future. Get the most up-to-date information on major business-altering legislation moving through Congress.

In addition, American Vegetable Grower will present its annual Grower Achievement Award to Sakata Farms, Brighton, CO. Presented in cooperation with United Fresh, this award honors growers who have taken production agriculture to new levels of innovation in food quality and safety, marketing and technological advancement.

9:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Connecting Policy Issues to Your Business Education SessionsYou know what challenges are facing your business, and these personalized education sessions will focus on those top issues and opportunities. In each of these education sessions, policy experts will discuss these issues that affect you and your business.

See page 22 for detailed descriptions of each education session.

9:45 a.m. – 10:35 a.m. The GMO Debate and Impact on Fruits and VegetablesColumbia A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

MODERATOR: Ray Gilmer, Vice President, Issues Management & Communication, United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS: Cathleen Enright, Executive Vice President, Food & Agriculture, Biotechnology Industry Association (BIO)Randal Giroux, Vice President, Food Safety, Quality and Regulatory Affairs, Cargill Incorporated

The Reshaping of AmericaColumbia B, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

MODERATOR: Robert Guenther, Senior Vice President, Public Policy, United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKER:Mark Lopez, Director of Hispanic Research, Pew Hispanic Project

International Trade and the Importance to AgricultureColumbia C, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

MODERATOR: Julie Manes, Director of Government Relations, United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:Bret Erickson, President, Texas International Produce AssociationBruce McEvoy, Director of Global Affairs, Seald-Sweet LLC/UNIVEG Group

10:45 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. The California Water Crisis: What’s Next?Columbia A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

MODERATOR:Robert Guenther, Senior Vice President, Public Policy United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:Barry Bedwell, President & CEO, California Fresh Fruit AssociationChris Marklund, Legislative Director, Rep. David Valadeo (R-CA)David L. Reynolds, Director of Federal Relations, Association of California Water Agencies

Can We Still Change Immigration Policy?Columbia B, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

MODERATOR: Julie Manes, Director of Government Relations, United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:Oscar Gonzales, Chief of Staff, U.S. Department of AgricultureJuliet Potrykus, Legislative Aide, Rep. Jeff Denham (R-CA)

How Current and Pending Regulations Affect the Produce Supply ChainColumbia C, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

MODERATOR:Dan Vaché, Vice President Supply Chain Management United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:Lance Jungmeyer, President, Fresh Produce Association of the AmericasKenny Lund, Vice President, Support Operations, Allen Lund Company, Inc.Ken Mobley, General Manager, Earth Source Trading Inc., Part of the Four Seasons Family of CompaniesJon Samson, Agricultural and Food Transporters Conference

See page 22 for detailed descriptions of each education session.

continued…



SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Noon – 1:30 p.m. General Session Luncheon: Why Fighting for Healthier School Meals Is So ImportantRegency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Co-sponsored by: Apio Paramount Citrus

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:James A. “Jamie” Barnett, Jr., Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Retired), Mission: Readiness Eduardo Sanchez, MD, MPH, Chief Science and Medical Officer, American Heart AssociationOtha Thornton, President, National PTA

Join us Tuesday afternoon as leaders from Mission: Readiness, the American Heart Association and the National PTA underscore the urgent need to provide nutritious school meals – including fresh fruits and vegetables – to America’s kids. Do not miss this opportunity to hear their insights on advancing child nutrition as we prepare to take this critical message to Capitol Hill!

2:00 p.m. Produce March on Capitol Hill Group PhotoCapitol Reflecting Pool, U.S. Capitol Building

Please join your fellow conference attendees for a group photo at the Capitol Reflecting Pool.

The Capitol Reflecting Pool is located in front of the U.S. Capitol Building. United Fresh staff will lead the way. A map of the photo location can be found in the back of this attendee portfolio.

2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. March on Capitol Hill: U.S. House of Representatives Congressional MeetingsBe a part of the largest grassroots effort of the fresh produce industry with the March on Capitol Hill, where teams will participate in individualized meetings with members of Congress. This is your time to meet face to face with elected officials and their staff and discuss the produce industry’s policy agenda.

2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Leafy Greens & Tomatoes Food Safety Metrics Research MeetingCongressional A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

United Fresh has partnered with Dr. Robert Buchanan and his multi- institutional team of researchers since 2011 in developing science and risk-based food safety metrics for leafy greens and tomato production and handling. The research team will brief the Produce Industry Advisory Panel on year 3 results and plans for validation studies in 2014/15.

5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. GLOBALG.A.P. USA Crops National Technical Working Group MeetingCongressional A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

United Fresh serves as the coordinator for GLOBALG.A.P.’s USA Crops National Technical Working Group, which is its main forum for addressing USA-specific market developments, opportunities, issues and concerns. This annual meeting will provide updates and review topics of relevance to USA growers, retailers and certification bodies utilizing GLOBALG.A.P. standards.

5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Fresh Festival on Capitol HillLongworth Cafeteria, Longworth House Office Building

Fresh Festival Bags Sponsored by: Fox Packaging

Fresh Festival Produce Delivery Sponsored by: Four Seasons Family of Companies

A unique event that’s become one of the most talked-about receptions in DC, United’s Fresh Festival on Capitol Hill features the freshest reception of the year for members of Congress and their staff, key administration officials and produce leaders from across the country. Join your colleagues for this exciting and flavorful display of what our industry has to offer.

7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. United FreshPAC Reception & Dinner (Separate Ticket Required)National Republican Club of Capitol Hill

Sponsored by: Del Monte Fresh Produce

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Representative Mike Conaway (R-TX), House Agriculture Committee MemberJoin us at the historic National Republican Club of Capitol Hill, just steps from the Capitol, Library of Congress and Supreme Court. This annual reception and dinner honors those industry members who have made a personal commitment to strengthen our industry. We will be joined by House Agriculture Committee Member, Congressman Mike Conaway (R-TX). Representative Conaway is highly anticipated to be the next chairman of the Agriculture Committee in the next Congress, come this January. It is extremely important that our industry takes this opportunity to further show him the significance of the fresh fruit and vegetable industry throughout the country. He will give us an insider’s look at what is currently happening on Capitol Hill and what’s in store for the 2014 election.

Please visit The Washington Conference registration desk for more information.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2014 continued

12

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2014


7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. General Session BreakfastRegency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Co-Sponsored by: Frey Farms The Packer

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:Mike Taylor, Deputy Commissioner for Foods and Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug Administration

This morning, fresh produce leaders will have the rare opportunity to hear from Mike Taylor, Deputy Commissioner for Foods and Veterinary Medicine for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). During his keynote remarks, you’ll hear directly from the FDA’s lead food official and one of the highest food safety authorities in the federal government about the proposed FSMA rules that could have significant impact on your business and the safety of our nation’s fresh produce.

We’ll also recognize the recipients of the 2014 Frieda Rapoport Caplan Family Business Scholarships, as well as Class 20 of the United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program.

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. United Fresh Forum at U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationAuditorium, Harvey Wiley Building, U.S. Food and Drug Administration College Park, MD

Conference attendees will have the unique opportunity to meet with FDA officials and ask questions on how the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and other regulatory issues that are impacting their produce operations. You’ll also hear about border security topics such as the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP), the status of FDA user fees and much more!

SPEAKERS:Samir Assar, Ph.D., Produce Safety Staff Director, Office of Food Safety, U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationAmy Barringer, Division Director for the Division of Field Programs & Guidance, Office of Compliance, U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationElisa Elliot, Ph.D., Microbiologist, Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation Network, Office of Foods and Veterinary Medicine, U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationDon Kraemer, Senior Policy Analyst, Office of the Center Director, U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Pre-registration and photo identification is required for this event. Please note the shuttle bus will depart promptly following the General Session Breakfast. Attendees must take official United Fresh transportation to FDA.

9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. March on Capitol Hill: U.S. Senate Congressional MeetingsThe March on Capitol Hill continues with a second day of meetings, featuring essential conversations with your Senators on critical issues impacting your business. Don’t miss this opportunity to make our produce voice heard!

Noon – 2:00 p.m. Closing Luncheon and General Session: An Insider’s Look at the 2014 ElectionsRegency Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Sponsored by: Tanimura & Antle

KEYNOTE SPEAKER:Franz Luntz, Political Consultant

We welcome back one of our most popular speakers ever, Frank Luntz. During his insider’s look at the 2014 elections, Luntz will give you his entertaining, behind-the-scenes perspective on how the Fall 2014 Congressional elections will impact the produce industry. Named one of Time magazine’s 50 most promising leaders under 40 and a Fellow at Harvard University’s prestigious Institute of Politics, Frank Luntz is an outspoken conservative author, political pollster and advisor who has helped shape debates on our nation’s most critical issues.

The conference will close with the presentation of the United Fresh Advocate of the Year Award. Each year, United Fresh recognizes an organization that has gone above and beyond in advocacy on behalf of the fresh produce industry. You won’t want to miss joining in the celebration for this year’s award winner!

2:15 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. NEW Post Conference Tour (Separate Ticket Required)USDA Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Beltsville, MD

Join us for an exciting tour of the USDA Agricultural Research Center, the world’s largest most diversified agriculture research complex, and hear from project team experts on their latest research.

Transportation will depart immediatly following the Closing Luncheon and General Session from the Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill.

Pre-registration is required for the tour; please visit The Washington Conference registration desk to check availability.



Cabbage Inc. prides itself on quality consistency and outstanding customer service.

Celebrating 30th anniversary with Food Safety Priority One

We are Pleased to be a Sponsor of the United Fresh Washington Conference.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2014 FRESH FESTIVAL EXHIBITORS

As of August 22, 2014

16

THANK YOUTO OUR 2014 CHAIRMAN’S ROUNTABLE CONTRIBUTORSAllen Lund Company, Inc.Andrew & Williamson Fresh ProduceAndrew Smith CompanyAndrews Bros., Inc.Apio, Inc.B & W Quality Growers, Inc.Blue Book Services, Inc.Bunzl, Inc.C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc.Cabbage, Inc.California Giant Berry FarmsCapital City Fruit Company, Inc.Castellini Company, LLCChiquita Brands International, Inc.Ciruli BrothersCoast Citrus DistributorsCostco WholesaleCrunch Pak Sliced ApplesD’Arrigo Brothers Company of New York, Inc.Del Monte Fresh Produce, N.A., Inc.Delhaize AmericaDND & Associates Consulting Group, LLCDole Food CompanyDomex Superfresh GrowersDuda Farm Fresh Foods, Inc.Florida Fruit & Vegetable AssociationFour Seasons Family of CompaniesFox PackagingThe Fresh Group, Ltd.FreshPoint, Inc.Freshway FoodsFresh Solutions Network, LLCFrieda’s, Inc.G.O. FreshGiant Eagle Markets, Inc.Gold Coast Packing Company, Inc.Heartland Produce CompanyHorton Fruit CompanyHuron Produce, Ltd.IFCO SYSTEMS, N.A.JAB Produce/Jack Keller Co.John Vena, Inc.The Kroger CompanyL & M Companies

Lakeside Produce Distribution, Inc.Liberty Fruit Co., Inc.The Little Potato CompanyLocus TraxxMann Packing CompanyMcEntire ProduceMonsantoNational Watermelon Association, Inc.NatureSealNorth Bay Produce, Inc.Northwest Horticultural CouncilThe Nunes Company, Inc.O.P. Murphy & SonsorganicgirlPacific Tomato Growers/Pacific Triple EParamount CitrusPaul Marshall Produce, Inc.Pear Bureau NorthwestPolymer LogisticsPotandon Produce, LLCPro*Act, LLCRed Sun GrowersRenaissance Food GroupRocky Produce, Inc.San Miguel Produce, Inc.Stemilt Growers, LLCStrube Celery & Vegetable CompanySunFedSunkist Growers, Inc.SyngentaTanimura & AntleTorrey Farms, Inc.Village FarmsWada Farms Marketing GroupWalter P. Rawl & Sons, Inc.Westlake Produce CompanyWiers Farm/Dutch Maid LogisticsWindset FarmsWinter Garden ProduceYerecic Label

As of August 22, 2014



THANK YOU UNITED FRESH FOUNDATION SALAD BAR SUPPORTERS50 OR MORE Dole Food CompanyKaiser Permanente Community Benefit Programs

30 OR MORE Apio C.H. Robinson WorldwideChiquita Brands International North Bay Produce Produce for Kids/Publix Super MarketsRoundy’s Supermarkets

20 OR MORE Del Monte Fresh Produce, N.A.The Fresh Produce and Floral CouncilIFCO Systems, N.A. PRO*ACTSilicon Valley Leadership Group FoundationTaylor Farms

8 OR MORE Bayer CropScienceD’Arrigo Bros. Co. of New YorkDuda Farm Fresh FoodsDuPont Crop ProtectionJon EsformesFrontera ProduceGrimmway FarmsThe Grower-Shipper Association FoundationHarris Teeter SupermarketsThe Health TrustHumboldt State University, California Center for Rural PolicyJAB Produce/Jack Keller Co.Kaiser Permanente, Mt. Diablo AreaMann Packing CompanyMastronardi ProduceThe Monsanto FundThe Packer

Paramount Community GivingProduce BusinessThe Produce NewsRabobank N.A.The Safeway FoundationSave Mart CARES FoundationStater Bros.The Sugar AssociationTanimura & AntleThe Tom Lange Company

4 OR MORE Alsum Farms & ProduceCaito Foods Service California Avocado CommissionCalifornia Giant Berry Farms Castellini CompanyCapitol City ProduceDMA SolutionsFrieda’sThe Georgia Health FoundationHollandia Produce/Live GourmetHouston Fresh Fruit and Vegetable AssociationThe Mario Saikhon FoundationMeijerNatureSweetPerishables GroupThe Produce ExchangeTurbana CorporationUrschel Laboratories

1 OR MOREAble-MendozaAdvance Image PackagingAll Fresh ProduceAllen Lund CompanyAmerican Business BankAmerican ContainersAndrew & Williamson Fresh Produce

Andrew Smith Co.Tonya and Rick AntleApex Benefits Group Bank of America Foundation, Monterey CountyBC Hot House FoodsBeachside ProduceBejo SeedsThe Berry ManBlue Book ServicesBonipak Produce CompanyBooth RanchesBorton & SonsBoskovich FarmsBrandt ConsolidatedBrandt FarmsBunzl Calavo GrowersCalifornia Endive FarmersCalifornia Fresh Fruit AssociationCalifornia Strawberry CommissionCapital City Fruit CompanyCarusoFrieda R. CaplanCHEPCiruli BrothersClifton Larson Allen LLPCMC Sales & MarketingCoast ProduceCombs ProduceConsolidated West DistributingContinental Sales Co.Cool PakCrunch Pak Sliced ApplesCurry and Co.Dietz & Kolodenko Co.Del Rey Avocado CompanyDiamond OnionsDNO ProduceDobler & Sons

18

Domex Superfresh GrowersDoug R. Walcher FarmsDriscoll’sEarthbound FarmEastern Produce CouncilEclipse Berry FarmsFINELIGHTFirst Fruits Marketing of WashingtonFlorida Fruit & Vegetable AssociationFour Seasons Family of CompaniesFowler PackingFrederick’s Inc.Fresh FarmsThe Fresh Group Ltd.Fresh Produce Association of the AmericasFreshway FoodsFrieda’sDennis & Susi Gertmenian Gills OnionsGrant J. Hunt CompanyGreat West ProduceGreen Thumb ProduceSteve GrinsteadGrowers ExpressHarvestMarkHass Avocado BoardHenry Avocado CorporationHMC FarmsHolthouse Farms of Ohio Horton Fruit CompanyHouweling’s TomatoesJ. Marchini FarmsJ & J ProduceJames Babcock Inc. Electrical ContractorsJasmine VineyardsJay & Ruth Pack Family FoundationJoshen Paper & PackagingJSL FoodsKeenan Farms

David and Lisa KrauseLandsberg - IndianapolisLegacy FarmsJim & Marcia LeimkuhlerLimoneira CompanyLocus TraxxLone Star Citrus GrowersMackey Almy Family FundMarco CompanyMarie’sMark Kern Margaret D’Arrigo-MartinMB Financial BankMcEntire ProduceMCL FreshLisa McNeeceElvia MendezMisionero VegetablesMission ProduceMoonlight CompaniesMS Inspection & LogisticsMucci FarmsMuir Copper Canyon FarmsMurphy Tomatoes DFWNational Watermelon AssociationNatureSealNaturipe FarmsNew England Produce CouncilOcean Mist FarmsOnions Etc.The Oppenheimer GroupPacific Resource GroupPandol Associates MarketingPandol BrothersParamount CitrusPDG ProducePerimeter Sales and MerchandisingPero Family FarmsPerry and Sons

Prime Time Produce International In Memory of Chuck HodgesPreferred Sales CorporationProHealthPura Vida FarmsR.S. Hanline Company RailexReFresh ProduceRio Queen CitrusSan Miguel ProduceScaroni Family of CompaniesSeald-Sweet LLC/UNIVEG GroupSouthern SpecialtiesDick & Carole SpezzanoStemilt GrowersStrube Celery & Vegetable CompanyBob & Sue Strube In Honor of Mickey LeftonLisa Strube & Sue HunterRobert Strube IIISugar Foods/Fresh GourmetSun World InternationalTemkin InternationalTorrey Farms True Organic ProductsUnited Fresh Leadership Alumni OrganizationVan Eerden Co.Vantage Point MediaVermilion Valley Produce/Central Illinois ProduceVillage FarmsVision Produce CompaniesWestern ShieldWestlake Produce CompanyWJL Distributors

As of 8/22/2014



Westlake Produce Company welcomes you to The

Washington Conference. Thank you for supporting our

industry and United Fresh.

RISING LEADERS SEMINARRegency A Ballroom, Ballroom Level, Hyatt RegencyMonday, September 8, 2014Noon - 5:00 pm

The Rising Leaders Seminar will take up-and-coming produce industry leaders’ careers to the next level! This program will focus on how public policy impacts the produce industry and how individuals can serve as advocates for their companies. Expert speakers will offer advice on how you can play a critical role in shaping public policy.

Noon – 2:00 p.m. WELCOME LUNCHEON AND KEYNOTE ADDRESS “You Don’t Need a Title to Be a Leader”

Mark Sanborn, President, Sanborn & Associates

Bestselling author and keynote speaker Mark Sanborn will inspire personal leadership beyond your title or position in your company. Dedicated to developing leaders in business and in life, Mark shows how each of us can be a leader in our daily lives and make a positive difference. In his book, You Don’t Need a Title to Be a Leader: How Anyone, Anywhere, Can Make a Positive Difference, Mark says, “The simple fact of having a title won’t make you a leader. I’ve found that everyone has the opportunity to lead, every day. Anyone at any level can learn to be a leader and help to shape or influence the world around them.”

2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. WHY WASHINGTON MATTERS TO YOUR BUSINESS Tom Stenzel, President & CEO, United Fresh Produce Association

Learn how actions taken here in Washington by Congress and the Administration directly impact your business’ viability and success. Tom will lay out why you need to take an active role in public policy to help shape your business future.

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. NAVIGATING THE WASHINGTON POLICY ENVIRONMENT Robert Guenther, Senior Vice President, Public Policy, United Fresh Produce Association

United’s chief government affairs officer kicks off this session, bringing you first-hand knowledge of how Washington really works and how each of us can make a difference. Robert will be joined by two members of United’s government affairs advisory team who will explore both Congress and Federal Regulatory Agencies in more detail.

NAVIGATING THE U.S. CONGRESS United Legislative Counsel Randy Russell is one of Washington’s most experienced agriculture

lobbyists. As head of his own firm, The Russell Group, Randy and his team work on behalf of United every day in advancing our policy issues in Congress. Randy will highlight how both the House of Representatives and Senate operate, offering insights into the thinking of elected officials and tips on how to make our messages most impactful.

NAVIGATING FEDERAL REGULATORY AGENCIES United’s Regulatory Counsel and partner in OFW Law, David Durkin has provided legal and

regulatory services to United for more than 25 years. With Washington made up of an intricate web of acronyms representing numerous federal agencies, David will highlight which agencies handle key regulatory issues that affect you and your business, where to turn to for questions and how to build and develop relationships with key Administration officials who write the regulations affecting our industry.

22

3:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. WHY ELECTIONS MATTER TO THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY Bo Harmon, Vice President of Political Affairs, BIPAC Mary Beth Hart, Director, Grassroots Services, BIPAC

United’s grassroots partner, BIPAC, provides businesses and associations with grassroots tools and information technology that help engage members in the public policy process. Bo and Mary Beth will discuss how companies can engage with their employees to make a difference in elections that drastically influence your business environment. With the Fall 2014 Congressional elections just a few weeks away, it’s never been more important to understand how you can make a difference in your own community.

4:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. THE CONGRESSIONAL FUTURE CAUCUS – CHARTING A NEW COURSE

Representative Aaron Schock (R-IL), Co-founder, Congressional Future Caucus U.S. House of Representatives

Think Washington is out of touch? So does Congressman Aaron Schock (R-IL), the co-founder of the new Congressional Future Caucus together with Congresswoman Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI). The Congressional Future Caucus serves as a platform to engage with young people across the country on critical policy issues. Rep. Schock is focused on developing a bipartisan community of Members of Congress that seek innovative long-term solutions to issues facing America’s next generation. You will learn about this important initiative to break the stalemate in Washington and what you can do to help drive future-oriented solutions to your business.

4:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. CLOSING REMARKS Ron Carkoski, CEO, Four Seasons Family of Companies, Chairman of the Board, United Fresh

As we conclude the seminar and prepare for the Opening Party this evening, United Fresh Chairman Ron Carkoski will engage participants on how to use the information we’ve learned today to life for your own career. Ron will discuss ways to continue to be engaged, turning today’s knowledge and inspiration into actionable activities that will empower you as a leader in your company and our industry.



CONNECTING POLICY ISSUES TO YOUR BUSINESS EDUCATION SESSIONSYou know what challenges are facing your business, and these personalized education sessions will focus on those top issues and opportunities preparing you for your critical meetings with lawmakers during the March on Capitol Hill. In each of these education sessions, policy experts will discuss these issues that affect you and your business.

International Trade and the Importance to Agriculture

9:45 a.m. – 10:35 a.m.

The Reshaping of America

Columbia B, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Regardless of Congressional inaction, the face of America is changing. The Hispanic population in America is growing inexorably and will change the political landscape, reshaping national policies and programs forever. Look at how future population trends will affect our industry and our country.

MODERATOR:

Robert Guenther Senior Vice President, Public Policy United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKER:

Mark Lopez Director of Hispanic Research Pew Hispanic Project

The GMO Debate and Impact on Fruits and Vegetables

Columbia A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

The GMO debate is making the national news every day. Are genetically modified products safe? Should we label foods with GMO ingredients? But how do these issues play out for the fruit and vegetable industry? Learn what is happening in new product development, regulation at the state and federal level, and consumer transparency critical to our industry.

MODERATOR:

Ray Gilmer Vice President Issues Management & Communication United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:

Cathleen Enright Executive Vice President Food & Agriculture Biotechnology Industry Association (BIO)

Randal Giroux Vice President, Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory Affairs Cargill Incorporated

Columbia C, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

The United States Trade Representative is negotiating major new trade agreements bringing export opportunities to U.S. producers. Concurrently, imports of fruits and vegetables continue to play a critical role in serving the U.S. consumer. Sit down with experts in both arenas to learn what changes may be coming in the trade arena.

MODERATOR:

Julie Manes Director of Government Relations United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:

Bret Erickson President Texas International Produce Association

Bruce McEvoy Director of Global Affairs Seald-Sweet LLC/UNIVEG Group

24

The California Water Crisis: What’s Next?

How Current and Pending Regulations Affect the Produce Supply Chain

10:45 a.m. – 11:35 a.m.

Can We Still Change Immigration Policy?

Columbia B, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

With our immigration system clearly broken, and Congress at a stalemate, is there still hope to modernize immigration policy? The Obama administration is taking some direct action, and many in Congress still believe we must act to pass a new guest worker program. Where can we go from here to address this critical issue?

MODERATOR:

Julie Manes Director of Government Relations United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:

Oscar Gonzales Chief of Staff U.S. Department of Agriculture

Juliet Potrykus Legislative Aide Rep. Jeff Denham (R-CA)

Columbia A, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

The current drought in the West could force major changes in where and how we produce fruits and vegetables. As companies are adjusting business strategies to deal with today’s challenges, legislators must be implementing long-term solutions to head off a major crisis. Learn about pending legislation, future water issues and their impact on the entire produce supply chain throughout the world.

MODERATOR:

Robert Guenther Senior Vice President, Public Policy United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:

Barry Bedwell President & CEO California Fresh Fruit Association

Chris Marklund Legislative Director Rep. David Valadeo (R-CA)

David L. Reynolds Director of Federal Relations Association of California Water Agencies

Columbia C, Ballroom Level, Hyatt Regency

Whether trucking regulations, border security and customs rules, or food safety requirements for sanitary transportation, government has a huge impact on the produce supply chain. Learn how current and pending regulations create supply chain challenges that affect your business.

MODERATOR:

Dan Vaché Vice President, Supply Chain Management United Fresh Produce Association

SPEAKERS:

Lance Jungmeyer President Fresh Produce Association of the Americas

Kenny Lund Vice President, Support Operations Allen Lund Company, Inc.

Ken Mobley General Manager Earth Source Trading, Inc. Part of the Four Seasons Family of Companies

Jon Samson Agricultural and Food Transporters Conference



ISSUES BRIEF

NUTRITIONCHALLENGECapitol Hill has been embroiled in a battle over healthier school meals. Fruits and vegetables have become a target, with efforts to repeal some of the new fruit and vegetable requirements for school lunch and breakfast. Increasing children’s fruit and vegetable consumption is a top priority for the country in combating the childhood obesity crisis. Healthier school meals, including more fresh fruits and vegetables, are an important policy lever for accomplishing that goal. Protecting the fruit and vegetable requirements in school meals is a top priority for United Fresh Produce Association.

BACKGROUNDIn 2010, on a bipartisan basis, Congress passed the Healthy, Hunger- Free Kids Act. This landmark legislation required USDA to update nutrition standards based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs. One of the primary goals of the new school meals nutrition standards, issued in January 2012, was to increase student’s access to and consumption of fruits and vegetables. Specifically, the new nutrition standards required schools to increase the variety and amount of fruits and vegetables served daily and increase whole grains and low-fat dairy while reducing sodium and calories. Also, students are now required to select at least a ½ cup of a fruit or a vegetable at breakfast and lunch.

Unfortunately, the School Nutrition Association is working to repeal the requirement that students must select at least a ½ cup serving of a fruit or vegetable at breakfast and lunch, claiming that this is increasing costs and contributing to plate waste. This fight over school meals has played out through the FY2015 House and Senate Agricultural Appropriations Bills; the House bill contains a provision that allows schools a one-year waiver if they can show financial hardship, whereas the Senate bill essentially protects the new nutrition standards. If waivers were allowed, schools could claim that offering more fruits and vegetables is a financial hardship. Although USDA estimates that over 90% of schools nationwide are successfully implementing the new school lunch standards, the new school breakfast and Smarts Snacks in Schools standards go into effect with the 2014-15 school year.

In January 2015 when the 114th Congress takes office, the school meals fight will be center stage again as Congress begins work on the 2015 Child Nutrition Reauthorization, legislation that reauthorizes all child nutrition programs every five years.

ACTIONTell Congress to protect the fruit and vegetable requirements in healthier school meals that are essential to improving children’s health and reducing childhood obesity. Tell Congress not to repeal the requirement that students select a ½ cup of fruits and vegetables at breakfast and lunch. How can you call it a school lunch or school breakfast if it doesn’t have at least a ½ cup of fruits or vegetables? The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that all of us “make ½ our plate fruits and vegetables at each meal, shouldn’t this start at school? This is about our children’s health and creating an environment in schools where children have access to great tasting fresh fruits and vegetables every day.

The Issues Brief summarizes two key issues that we will discuss with Members of Congress and their staffs during the March on Capitol Hill. Please review this background information and familiarize yourself with the calls to action for each issue.

28

IMMIGRATIONCHALLENGEMembers of the produce industry are all too familiar with the challenges that come with trying to secure a stable, experienced workforce. Delays in getting workers, workers who can’t or won’t do the job, or who don’t have the skills to do the job are unfortunately common occurrences when you’re trying to get fresh produce out of the field and on to consumers. The need for long-term, profound changes to our nation’s immigration system is readily apparent to anyone in our industry. And yet for years, Congress has failed to pass comprehensive immigration reform in spite of the obvious dysfunction in America’s immigration policies. The White House is now reviewing what the President can do to make changes to immigration policy. With immigration reform in limbo, fruit and vegetable providers pay the price of uncertainty in their labor force.

BACKGROUNDIn 2013, major progress was made in Congress toward enactment of reform. The Senate passed a comprehensive package containing provisions that would have stabilized the current agriculture workforce and secured a reliable guest worker program for the future. The House of Representatives took steps toward reform with action in the House Judiciary Committee. Negotiations among various factions in the House continued through the rest of 2013 and into 2014. However, political resistance to reform remained strong and intractable, ultimately derailing chances for passing immigration reform in the House. Earlier this summer, with Congressional action stalled, the President stated his intention to move forward with any Executive Branch action possible. Currently, the White House is considering options for changes to immigration policy, but the President has yet to announce what steps he will take.

ACTIONThe produce industry will work with the Administration whenever possible on presidential initiatives to ease the ag labor crisis. However, relief through a patchwork of executive orders from the President could easily evaporate. Executive Branch actions will not provide the permanent legislative change that is needed. What will truly ease unnecessary labor shortages and resulting lost crops experienced by our industry is an overhaul of an immigration system that is deeply flawed. We need a path to legal status for our long-time workforce and a future guest worker program to meet our labor needs. Congress needs to find the will to do the job that we, their constituents, sent them to Washington to do. Congress needs to pass legislation to prevent further damage to American businesses and rising costs to consumers. Our industry needs reform that secures the current workforce and provides a stable workforce in the future. Tell Congress to do their job and pass immigration reform NOW!



UNITED FRESH UPCOMING EVENTSSeptember 22–26, 2014 Produce Inspection Training ProgramUSDA SCI Training & Development Center Fredericksburg, VA

September 29, 2014 United Fresh Foundation Tip Murphy Legacy Golf Tournament Oasis Golf Club Loveland, OH

January 26-20, 2015Produce Inspection Training ProgramUSDA SCI Training and Development Center Fredericksburg, VA

March 8–13, 2015Produce Executive Development ProgramCornell University Ithaca, NY

June 9–11, 2015 United Fresh 2015 McCormick Place Convention Center Chicago, IL

September 28–30, 2015The Washington ConferenceThe Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill Washington, DC

SEE YOU IN CHICAGO FOR UNITED FRESH 2015

June 9-11, 2015

1901 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 1100Washington, DC 20006 USA

202-303-3400www.unitedfresh.org

Documents

The Washington Conference