[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 82 (Monday, June 20, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1285]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    IN HONOR OF THE GROWER-SHIPPER ASSOCIATION OF CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 20, 2005

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary 
organization based in my Central California district, the Grower-
Shipper Association of Central California, on the occasion of its 75th 
anniversary. Initially formed in 1930 by a handful of growers and 
shippers to represent one commodity--iceberg lettuce, the GSA now 
includes over 300 members, spanning four Central Coast counties and 
representing dozens of commodities--virtually all vegetables, berries, 
mushrooms, and wine grapes. Through its long record of achievement, the 
Association has become the premier local representative of agriculture 
on the Central Coast.
  For most of its first 50 years, the Association's work focused on the 
issue of labor. Today the GSA tackles an extensive workload including 
food safety and security, pest and plant disease prevention, control 
and eradication, land use in the agriculture/urban interface, water 
supply and distribution, market access and trade, agricultural research 
and education, government, legislative and regulatory affairs, worker 
safety and training, and labor and employment law.
  While managing these increased challenges, the Grower-Shipper 
Association maintains a commitment to its members and community. Its 
mission statement declares ``We are the local solution representing our 
members' agricultural needs.'' The Grower-Shipper Association lives up 
to this standard through education, representation, and advocacy. In 
2003, GSA established the non-profit Grower-Shipper Association 
Foundation to further its support of the Central Coast agricultural 
community. Funds from the Foundation will allow the Association to 
significantly expand its support of educational, training, and other 
programs of service to the community.
  The Grower-Shipper Association has made a substantial contribution to 
both the agriculture industry and the broader community of the Central 
Coast. The Association's achievements are a direct result of the 
leadership of its members, boards, and presidents, past and present. 
For 75 years the GSA organization has earned a reputation for integrity 
that honors the culture, companies, and employees of Central Coast 
agriculture that have made this region the most productive and 
innovative in the world. Mr. Speaker, it is truly an honor to recognize 
the Grower-Shipper Association of Central California.




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