Issue: 176

October 2024

October is Here!

October is here, and we are thrilled for everything that this new season brings! We have exciting updates to share, from stories on sustainability to seasonal recipes highlighting our delicious citrus. So, roll up those sleeves on your fall sweaters and dig into our latest news.

Limoneira's Latest

Limoneira continues to push boundaries, embracing strategic growth while staying true to its agricultural heritage. President and CEO Harold Edwards recently shared his vision for the future in the latest issue of Vision Magazine. 

In response to changing global markets and consumer demands, the company has taken strategic steps to enhance its operations. By expanding avocado production and exploring real estate development, Limoneira is diversifying its portfolio and securing long-term growth.

With a strong focus on sustainable farming practices and a commitment to reducing its environmental impact, Limoneira is leading the way in ensuring a healthy future for both the land and its communities! These initiatives highlight Limoneira's dedication to balancing tradition with innovation, creating a future that benefits both consumers and the planet. Read the full interview here: lmnr.co/vision24 

Limoneira at IFPA 2024

Don't miss us at the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia, October 17-19! This annual industry powerhouse is the place to be to connect with the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain. Stop by our booth #B2849 to see all of the great things we have going on and to score some exclusive Limoneira swag! We can't wait to see you there!

Sustainability

Have you ever paused to think about the little choices we make every day that can create a ripple effect for our planet? As we navigate our busy lives, it's easy to overlook the impact of our actions, especially in the food we enjoy. At Limoneira, we believe that every lemon has a story, and every decision counts. We're excited to share how our commitment to sustainability goes beyond just delicious produce—it's about nurturing our environment and supporting coastal communities.

Recently, members of the Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program visited our headquarters and saw firsthand how Limoneira embraces responsible practices. As its newest Ambassador, supporting their program to reduce ship speeds for safer whales, cleaner air, and a quieter ocean, we were excited to show them how we're leading efforts in sustainable agriculture.

As Edgar Gutierrez, our VP of Farm Management Services, said, "We are not a status quo company." This is reflected in everything we do, from cutting-edge water management strategies to exploring ways to support biodiversity. With a commitment to positive change, we're demonstrating that businesses can make a meaningful impact on the planet and their communities.

Read more about their visit here.

Recipe of the Month

As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in, it's time to embrace the cozy flavors of the season. Pumpkin Spice Dream is a delightful and comforting beverage that captures the essence of fall. With its vibrant orange hue and warm, inviting aroma, it's the perfect way to sip and savor the changing leaves.

This delicious beverage is a perfect fall treat, combining the warmth of pumpkin with the perfect amount of citrus. It's a healthier alternative to traditional pumpkin spice lattes, made with real pumpkin puree and a touch of honey.

Ingredients:

🎃 1 cup pumpkin puree

🍊 1 cup of freshly squeezed Limoneira® orange juice

🎃 1/4 cup almond milk (or your preferred milk)

🍊 1 tablespoon honey

🎃 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

🍊 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

🎃 Pinch of nutmeg

🍊 Ice

Instructions:

1. Combine pumpkin puree, orange juice, almond milk, honey, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture over ice in a glass.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

Whether you're sipping it by a crackling fireplace or enjoying it on a crisp autumn day, Pumpkin Spice Dream is sure to become your new favorite seasonal treat.

The SP Project

The SP project, a community-driven effort to restore a historic symbol for Santa Paula, has been a resounding success. Led by local resident and former Limoneira employee Gus Gunderson, the project involved a collaborative effort between businesses to revitalize the iconic letters atop the mountain overlooking the city. With support from Limoneira and CalNRG, the project was brought to life. Despite challenging weather conditions, the crew persevered, and the letters were successfully restored to their former glory, standing tall at 125 feet high and 25 feet wide. The project has brought immense joy to Santa Paula residents and serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration. Watch the video recap here.

A Celebration of Avocado Excellence

To express our gratitude for our dedicated avocado picking crews, we hosted a celebratory BBQ to honor their hard work and commitment throughout the harvest season. Their tireless efforts are instrumental in our success, and we're grateful for their contributions. The BBQ was a fun-filled event with delicious food and camaraderie, providing a well-deserved break and a chance to celebrate our achievements together.

Remembering Dorcas Thille

We are saddened to announce the passing of Dorcas Thille, the mother of our board member, Gordon Kimball.  

Born on November 3, 1931, in Santa Paula, Dorcas came from a pioneering family that settled in Ventura County in the 1860s. At the age of 41, she accepted the challenge of becoming a full-time avocado and lemon farmer while raising six children.

Dorcas was a passionate advocate for education, serving on the Briggs Elementary School board and receiving the Stanford Gold Spike Award for her volunteer efforts at Stanford University. She made history as the first woman elected to the board of Calavo Growers, serving for 35 years and contributing her expertise to various agricultural organizations.

Her legacy continues through her family, with her son Gordon and granddaughter Rachael both involved in California avocado farming. 

We extend heartfelt condolences to her family and are grateful for the lasting impact she made on the community.

Winner of the Month

It's the perfect time for a little seasonal cheer! We're excited to announce our October winner: Bobbie Hitson from Klamath Falls, Oregon. Congratulations, Bobbie! We so appreciate you reading our newsletters and being a support to all of us here at Limoneira.