PASADENA, CA - The martinis poured as members of the produce industry gathered at the beautiful Langham Huntington in Pasadena, CA, last Saturday night, January 30, for the annual Fresh Produce and Floral Council (FPFC) Dinner Dance.
“The Annual FPFC Dinner Dance showcased what makes the council and regional organizations so valuable to the produce and floral industry,” Jeff Oberman, Vice President of Trade Relations for the United Fresh Produce Association, tells me. “This event brings together 'our' community for a celebration that highlights what makes each one of us successful – it’s the relationships and dedication to a common goal – to sell more produce (and floral) in our stores, restaurants, schools, and everywhere our consumers have the opportunity to enjoy our healthy, fresh, and exciting offerings.”
Walking in you can't help but be impressed by the atmosphere surrounding you, not to mention the dedication to the theme!
“This year’s Dinner Dance was another success,” Carissa Mace, President of the FPFC, shares. “It was a great evening for the industry, everyone enjoying the James Bond theme and the chance to catch up with old friends and meet new ones.”
Casino Royale 007 inspired glamorous dresses, crisp tuxes, an amazing bar crafted from an ice sculpture, and characters wandering the party with guns and James Bond garb.
After a cocktail hour to kick things off, guests were escorted to the ballroom, where we were presented with a delicious four course meal that showed how well produce performs as center of the plate, while Immediate Past Chairman Brad Martin treated guests to a dynamic introduction, thanked the sponsors, and introduced incoming Chair Marvin Quebec.
“The FPFC has continued to grow throughout the years and I enjoyed seeing long-time and first-time attendees having a great time,” Jeff continues, adding that this year also marks the first time a member from Northern California has become Chairman of the FPFC. “Marvin Quebec will do a great job engaging members from throughout the entire region at both Northern and Southern California events throughout the coming year.”
The raffle, which held tempting prizes for ticket holder ranging from getaways, to skydiving, to the grand prize of $20,000, successfully involved a majority of the attendees. Ultimately, however, grand prize winner Bill Coombs elected to give back his winnings, donating the entirety of the pot back to the City of Hope.
The FPFC also celebrated the graduation of its apprentices, who worked hard throughout the year to become strong leaders in produce.
And then the dancing begun!
The cover band had everyone on their feet in minutes, covering 60 years of popular music that reached out to the most seasoned and newest produce members alike.
Others elected to gamble, trying their hands at cards and craps while all having an amazing night in a fun atmosphere.
From left to right, connections were either formed or reunited as everyone enjoyed an evening of dancing, drinks, and dress that kicked off a promising new year for the FPFC and the industry that it supports.
Thank you to the FPFC and sponsors for throwing such a fun event in our own backyard, and looking forward to the next!
