FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 27, 2007
Contact: (202) 303-3400 ext. 425, Amy Philpott

Washington, DC - The United Fresh Research & Education Foundation has named the four recipients of the 2007 Frieda Rapoport Caplan Family Business Scholarships. The 2007 scholarship recipients include: Sam Stewart, Wes Pak Sales, Inc., Dinuba, CA; Milas Russell III, Sandstone Marketing, Inc., Yuma, AZ; Milton Voss, Pero Vegetable LLC, Delray Beach, FL; and Kristine Zerr, Domex Superfresh Growers, Yakima, WA.

The scholarship program provides the opportunity for employees of family-owned businesses to attend the annual United Fresh Washington Public Policy Conference (WPPC) in Washington, DC. The Scholarship Advisory Committee reviewed applications from many different geographic regions and industry segments. Winners were selected based on a number of criteria such as interest in advocacy work, commitment to the produce industry and overall quality of the application.

“I'd like to extend our congratulations to the winners and thank everyone who applied this year," said Stephen Griffin, Misionero Vegetables, Chairman of the United Fresh Foundation Board of Directors. “As a member of a family business, I know how easy it is to get tied up daily business, and this program provides family businesses a unique opportunity for their employees to step out and see the bigger produce industry picture."

Each recipient will receive complimentary airfare, hotel, and registration to this year’s Washington Public Policy Conference that will take place September 12-14, 2007 at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington, D.C.

“We greatly appreciate the Caplan family's support of this important opportunity," said Victoria Kuhns, senior vice president, member services, foundation. "We encourage all of our family business members to consider having their employees apply for next year's program."

Established in 2001, the scholarship program is made possible through a generous grant from Frieda’s, Inc. to the United Fresh Research & Education Foundation. The program was founded by Karen Caplan and Jackie Caplan Wiggins to expand opportunities for representatives from family businesses to attend the Washington Public Policy Conference and help make a positive difference for the produce industry. The Foundation accepts new applications for the program each summer.