[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 147 (Thursday, November 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2001]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      CONGRATULATING P-R FARMS AS AGRICULTURE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

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                         HON. GEORGE RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 13, 2002

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate P-R Farms 
of Clovis, California, for receiving the 2002 Baker, Peterson, and 
Franklin Agriculture Business of the Year Award at the Greater Fresno 
Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Luncheon in Fresno, California on 
November 13, 2002. This annual award is given to an agricultural 
organization whose achievements and impact have significantly 
contributed to the industry and the local community.
  Vincenzo Bicchiuti, father of the founder of P-R Farms, arrived in 
America as an immigrant in 1914 and planted the seeds of a small family 
business in grapes and figs. Benefiting from his father's wisdom, Pat 
Ricchiuti learned that diversification would be the key to long-term 
success. Pat and his wife, Frances, began to plant plums and cotton 
which was the beginning of their farm's expansion. The goal for the 
newly-founded P-R Farms was growth while maintaining quality at every 
juncture.
  Today, the philosophy and dedication of father and son is continued 
by grandson, Patrick Ricchiuti. Known worldwide for premium quality and 
excellence, P-R Farms' products are locally grown, packed, and shipped 
from their production facility in Clovis, California. P-R Farms has 
been an innovator in agriculture, developing many new techniques in Ag 
production, shipping, storage, and marketing.
  The Ricchiuti family has been active in leading California State 
University, Fresno's Ag One Foundation, College of Agricultural 
Sciences, and Technology, Alumni Association, and Bulldog Foundation. 
They developed fundraising programs for Clovis schools, and have served 
on the governing board of the Clovis School District. In addition to 
agriculture and education, the Ricchiutis have been very involved in 
local healthcare serving on boards and councils for both Central 
California Children's Hospital and Clovis Community Hospital.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate P-R Farms for earning the 
2002 Baker, Peterson, and Franklin Agriculture Business of the Year 
Award. I urge my colleagues to join me in wishing P-R Farms many years 
of continued success.

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