nov-dec-2020

CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE Other robust partnerships that have contributed greatly to the success of Blue Diamond are those found along the greater supply chain that provides the benefits of almonds to the world. Our hullers and shellers, the manufacturing partners and co-packers, the marketing partners and retailers, and truck drivers and shipping lines. And finally, and perhaps most important of all, is the incredible partnership between our growers and the 1,800 hard-working Blue Diamond team members in the plants, in the offices and on the leadership team. We are all truly grateful for your dedication to going above and beyond during the challenges of 2020 to keep the co-op running. I would also like to recognize the regional field managers for your engagement and education with growers. The relationship between growers and their Regional Manager is indispensable in providing a valuable connection to the cooperative and the industry. I encourage you to continue growing that relationship. I would now like to recognize our Board of Directors for their service. Dale Van Gronigan : Vice Chairman & District 3 Director Matt Efird : District 8 Charles Crivelli : District 6 Dan Mendenhall : District 7 Kent Stenderup : District 9 John Monroe : District 2 Steve Van Duyn : District 5 Kevin Fondse : District 4 And, our at-large director Joe Huston. We are all proud of the work you do for this cooperative. Each year I have the honor of naming one of our growers as our Ambassador of the Year. This award recognizes outstanding service and unwavering commitment to the overall success of the cooperative. This year we had several outstanding nominations, but one grower in particular exemplified the spirit of both a dedicated servant and an inspired leader. This person is known for always being willing to help and is frequently heard saying “Whatever you need me to do, I’ll be there.” But it’s his quiet leadership and role as a mentor to others that has truly made a difference to our co-op over the years. He stays involved in Almond Board committees and is considered one of the most active Grower Liaison Committee members we have. Finally, his commitment to supporting sustainability and modeling the CASP has been crucial to our co-op’s growth in that area. I’m pleased to share with you that year’s Ambassador of the Year is Gurcharan Dhillon from District 9. Congratulations, Gurcharan! I know you share my confidence in the future and in the leadership we have in place to guide us. Great leadership is vital at any time in an organization. But in unprecedented times like we’ve witnessed this past year, the importance of a strong, experienced, innovative leadership team is more apparent than ever. With that, on behalf of the Board of Directors, I’d like to acknowledge the 10-year anniversary of Blue Diamond ’s President and CEO Mark Jansen. Thank you Mark for your 10 years of leadership! I want to wish you and your families a happy holidays! Dan Cummings Chairman of the Board 1 2 A L M O N D F A C T S