Fresh Takes. Current Issues.

A panel discussion on current issues facing the Central Valley agricultural industry.

Join us for lunch and discussion with our panel of industry experts. Panelists will discuss the current concerns facing the Central Valley agricultural industry, provide solutions for overcoming them, and answer any questions you might have.

Panelists include:

Sam Parnagian - Fowler Packing
Established in 1950, Fowler Packing Company was founded by Sam Parnagian after his return home from service in World War II. Known for his hard work and innovation, Sam was a pioneer in the fruit industry. With the help of his four sons, Sam was at the helm of the business until his passing in 1980. Today, under the leadership and active management of second and third-generation family members, as well as hundreds of dedicated employees, Fowler Packing has become one of the largest growers of fresh table grapes and citrus in the nation.

Ryan Jacobsen - Fresno County Farm Bureau
Ryan Jacobsen, of Easton, serves as CEO of the Fresno County Farm Bureau. Jacobsen is no stranger to the Farm Bureau or agriculture. He is the fourth generation of two Fresno County farm families and has served as an FCFB staff member since 2004. Both his grandfather, Don Laub, and mother, Debbie Jacobsen, are past presidents of the organization, and his father, Ray, served on the Board for over two decades.

Paul Gillum - Gillum Family Farms
Gillum Farms is a family-owned meat company devoted to bringing exceptional prepared meats from their kitchen to yours. From their roots in raising livestock through 4-H and FFA to over two decades of hands-on experience, the Gillum family has refined every recipe and technique to deliver unmatched flavor and quality. Their commitment to quality is not seasonal; it’s infused in every step, from raising animals with care to crafting each product with precision so that every bite you enjoy reflects their passion and heritage.

Jon Kotman - Kotman Technology
Jon started Kotman Technology as a high school student in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Today, Kotman Technology provides fully managed IT services, security solutions, and technology consulting to clients in Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, and beyond. Their tailored approach has resulted in a customer retention of over 95% for the past 10 years. Kotman Technology prides itself on being the last technology partner you'll ever need.

Space is limited. Company executive team members are welcome.

Please RSVP no later than November 14, 2025.