California Citrus Mutual (CCM) will mark its 40th year as the “voice of the citrus grower” when the organization gathers Nov. 16 for its annual meeting at the Visalia Convention Center.

This year’s annual meeting includes the thought-provoking and insightful commentary of syndicated columnist Ruben Navarrette, who will reflect on the concept of “fake news” and its influence on the current social and political climate.

A Selma native, Navarrette is a nationally syndicated columnist with the Washington Post Writers Group and is a regular guest commentator on CNN, CNBC and Fox News Channel. He raises controversial topics and has become an increasingly important voice in the national political scene.

The gathering begins at 6 p.m. with a no-host reception, followed by dinner and the evening’s program at 7 p.m.

CCM was founded in 1977 with a mission to advocate for policies that allow for fair competition in the marketplace and to share with members of the public, the legislature, regulatory agencies, and others how the citrus industry supports the economic and environmental health of Californians.

“Over the years, our mission has expanded to meet the growing and changing needs of the industry,” says CCM President Joel Nelsen, who has led the association since 1982.

According to Nelsen, the original role of CCM was an unbiased source of market information and price data. While that function remains a key benefit of membership, the organization’s influence and leadership within and outside the industry is far broader.

Today, the association represents over 2,500 growers and 75 percent of the state's $3.3 billion citrus industry.

Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased by calling CCM at (559) 592-3790.