Topics in this issue of Behind the Blue:
- From the Chair: Wishing You a Joyful Holiday Season!
- Blueberry Industry Leadership Program Spotlight: Meet Jessica Silver, Commercial Manager, OZblu
- NABC/USHBC Delegation Visits Chilean Growing Regions
- Happy Holidays From the USHBC!
Message from the Chair: Wishing You a Joyful Holiday Season!
As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to extend my warmest holiday wishes to you and your loved ones. This time of year reminds us to reflect on the moments and milestones we’ve shared, and I’m incredibly grateful for the dedication and passion each of you brings to the blueberry industry.
Your unwavering commitment to advancing our mission has been the foundation of our success this year, and I’m truly inspired by what we’ve achieved together. As we celebrate the season, I hope you find time to relax, recharge and enjoy the company of family and friends.
Here’s to a joyous holiday season and an exciting year ahead filled with opportunities to grow and thrive. Happy Holidays and best wishes for a bright and prosperous 2025!
Warm regards,
Shelly Hartmann
Blueberry Industry Leadership Program Spotlight: Meet Jessica Silver, Commercial Manager, OZblu
Class 3 of the Blueberry Industry Leadership Program is in full swing and we’re excited to introduce you to a fellow from the class each month in Behind the Blue.
1. Do you have any pets?
We have a dog! His name is Chuck, and he’s 11. He’s a big fella who is very headstrong and loves to snuggle. Working at home since 2020, my “commute home” is to walk the dog and decompress. He is 80 pounds of love, and often serenades us with a good howling.
2. Tell us about your family.
I’m married with two little kids and a grown stepson. Jonathan and I have been together for about 15 years, and the kids are 12 and 10. We eat dinner together most evenings, and when we get to travel, we love to see far-off places, especially where we can enjoy the water.
3. What is your background in blueberries?
I started with United Exports in 2020 as the company introduced OZblu to the Americas. My background in operations, finance and fundraising provided all the skills for a position that bridged the gaps between supply chain and sales. I chose to lean in on the sales side, where I was most effective in delivering customer programs and spearheading marketing and promotion in the Americas.
4. What is your favorite blueberry form or dish?
Fresh Blueberries, room temperature, eaten like popcorn. Blueberries are the original fast food and my favorite snack. Second to that are blueberry pancakes; no syrup is needed. If you cook them just right, the blues give a perfect sweetness.
5. What is the most surprising thing about the blueberry industry?
The blueberry industry is evolving. The commodity is coming into a new era of varieties and that’s awakening consumers to a new and improved eating experience. I’m grateful to be part of it. But above all that, the people are the absolute best I’ve ever worked with.
6. What are you looking forward to most as part of the leadership program class?
I’m looking forward to working with my classmates and learning more from their perspectives, as well as working with those who have made the USHBC what it is today. Knowing where we have been is important in helping guide us into the future.
NABC/USHBC Delegation Visits Chilean Growing Regions
A delegation of NABC and USHBC team members and blueberry industry leaders recently traveled to Chile to explore the country’s blueberry growing regions as part of Destination Chile.
NABC/USHBC President Kasey Cronquist, NABC Director of Government Affairs Alyssa Houtby and NABC/USHBC Vice President of Engagement and Education Amanda Griffin were joined by NABC Chair Pat Goin and her husband, Kevin, Bryan Sakuma, Tom Avinelis, Christy Butler, Robert Kreofsky and Zach Semerikov.
The delegation traveled to the city of Chillán in central Chile and visited Fall Creek Nursery; the Los Angeles area for orchard and packing tours of Hortifrut Virquenco and Volcan Foods; and the Angol area to visit Frusan Angol. Along the way, they got to know fellow blueberry experts and learned about the future of the Chilean blueberry industry.
Chile has planted over 44,000 acres of highbush blueberries and is committed to finding new and better varieties.
A special thank you to Andres Armstrong and the Chilean Blueberry Committee for their hospitality and support in organizing the trip! Go Blueberries! 🫐🫐
Happy Holidays From the USHBC!
At this magical time of the year, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have supported our success – people like you! Thank you for your ongoing dedication to USHBC, and best wishes for a joyful season spent with family and friends. From our blueberry family to yours, may health, peace, happiness and inspiring possibilities be yours today and throughout 2025. Go Blueberries!
With sincere gratitude,
The USHBC team
