On Tuesday, the Transition Board of Directors of the Washington State Tree Fruit Association (WSTFA) named Jon DeVaney as President. The soon-to-be consolidated industry organization will be formed from the merger of the Washington State Horticultural Association (WSHA), Yakima Valley Grower-Shippers Association (YVGSA), Wenatchee Valley Traffic Association (WVTA) and Washington Growers Clearing House Association (WGCH). A September 1 target date has been set to complete the necessary filings, hire staff and commence operations. Elections for a permanent 13 person Board of Directors will be held this fall and the elected Board will take office at the Annual Meeting December 1-3, 2014 in Kennewick, WA.
The Transition Board is comprised of two members appointed by each of the merging organizations as well as their Executive Directors who serve in an ex officio capacity. Board members are: Steve Zediker and Jeff Cleveringa, WSHA; David Smeltzer and West Mathison, WVTA; Sean Gilbert and Jon Alegria, YVGSA; and Mark Stennes and Sam Godwin, WGCH.
The formation of WSTFA follows 2 ½ years of effort geared towards creation of a more streamlined entity for both current and future industry needs. This measured approach has allowed for member and industry input and debate while affording full transparency to the process. The WSTFA Board is committed to a seamless transition with no interruption of data or services to the membership and industry supporters.
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