12/05/05 Hort Convention additions

12/05/05 Hort Convention additions

Participants of the 101st annual Washington State Horticultural Association convention may want to note some additions to the speaker's list at the event, which starts today in Wenatchee. That is most evident with the kick-off speech. Hort Association Director Jim Hazen says U.S. Fourth District Representative Doc Hastings agreed to join the program to discuss the latest developments in immigration reform, and potential updates to the federal guest worker program & labor related subjects very important to the Northwest tree fruit industry. HAZEN: Industry has certain needs in that area. The government has to respond not only to industry needs but also public pressure to immigration reform. So we're glad that Congressman Hastings has agreed to come and speak. More lawmakers and political figures are set to be on hand today for the Hort. Washington State Representative and Speaker of the House Frank Chopp speaks during this afternoon's luncheon. And former State Senator and gubernatorial candidate Dino Rossi will be on hand Tuesday. One more speaker of note rounds out the list of additions. Steve Lutz, the Vice-President of the Perishables Group, will be on hand to discuss various aspects of marketing in the fruit industry. The Perishables Group is an independent marketing firm that handles marketing aspects for clients in the produce industry. The client list includes recognizable names such as Chiquita, California Grape Growers, and the United Potato Board.
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