The California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) honored long time Exeter-based fresh fruit grower Verne Crookshanks, principal of Venida Packing, Inc., with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is awarded by CFFA’s Mentors’ Committee, which is comprised of the association’s five most recent board chairmen. Nominations for the award are accepted from all past chairmen.

The esteemed award recognizes individuals who are industry oriented, have provided long-term, consistent service to the California Fresh Fruit Association by serving on the board of directors or various committees for an extended period of time throughout their career and a person who, through their time and effort, has influenced CFFA and the industry in a positive way.

“We could not be more pleased that the Mentors’ Committee selected Verne Crookshanks for this recognition and award,” said CFFA President Barry Bedwell. “Verne’s long term commitment and support has been paramount to the successes of the fresh fruit industry and our Association.”

As an active member with the California Fresh Fruit Association, Crookshanks served on its board for 40 years and was board chairman in 1986/87.

Previous recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award include Sarkis Sarabian of Sarabian Farms, Herbert Kaprielian of CRJ Farming Co. LP, and George Caratan of Anton Caratan & Son and Blanc Vineyards.