SACRAMENTO, CA - As we here at AndNowUKnow headquarters prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, we would be remiss not to share some of the gratitude and thanks felt across the industry. We reached out to several supply-side members to hear about what they’re most grateful for this time of year.

Randy Giumarra, Vice President of Sales, Giumarra Vineyards

"I’m grateful for family traditions and our Giumarra Thanksgiving meal. I’m grateful for our family football game…and knee braces. I’m grateful for moist stuffing that comes out of the bird rather than the dry boxed stuff. I’m grateful for my great-grandmother’s original rigatoni sauce recipe, even though I found out the base is made with jarred Ragú. When 22 Giumarras/in-laws show up to our house, I’m grateful for my chalice that holds half a bottle of wine. And I’m grateful for all of the new recipes that we get from the November issue of The Snack magazine, of course!"

Gary Clevenger, Managing Partner, Freska Produce International

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."

Megan Gorgisheli, Vice President, Marketing Administration and Brand, Giumarra Companies

“Year-round, I feel grateful to work with such an incredible team at Giumarra. We get to market the best products in the world (no apologies, Apple and Disney) and our leadership empowers us to think outside the box. On a personal note, I am thankful for the good health and happiness of my family, and to be working in a life-giving industry that positively impacts other families’ health and happiness.”

Anthony Innocenti, Managing Partner, LIV Produce

“Super grateful for my wonderful family and so proud of my boys! The holiday spirit makes me think of and reflect how much we have all grown at LIV and really looking forward to future growth—and to some amazing home cooking and craft cocktails on the menu this year!

David Lake, President, 4Earth Farms™

“As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you to our team members for the hard work and creativity each of you brings to the table. This year has been filled with unique challenges; your dedication and unwavering commitment are a testament to our shared vision. I am honored to lead such an incredible team. I’m grateful for the trust and confidence our customers, partners, and stakeholders place in us. Your support fuels our determination to deliver and exceed expectations. From the 4Earth Family to yours, we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and memories.”

Paul Mastonardi, Chief Executive Officer, Mastronardi Produce®

“As a fourth-generation, family-run business, we have a lot to be thankful for. We’re fortunate to be part of an industry that provides fresh, healthy food to our communities. That is only possible with our employees, growers, retail partners—everyone who makes our mission a reality. Thank you to our team and to all the hardworking people in produce.”

Sharing my own gratitude for the voices across this industry that have impacted me and upheld my voice. Happy Thanksgiving!