Northwest cherry growers gather in January for the 81st Annual Cherry Institute to share their coronation of the Cherry King and stories of overcoming adversity, as well as a sober analysis of last year's market and an optimistic outlook for the future. We feature inspiring keynote speakers.
“The consumer experience is getting better and better,” said Mike Taylor, senior vice president of Stemilt Growers, during a panel discussion. “We've come this far. We can't be more optimistic.”
The enthusiasm that has characterized Taylor's more than 40-year career was rewarded when the industry named him the 79th Cherry King.
“I love the product, but more than that I love the people,” Taylor said.
Pat Sullivan, the 2023 Cherry King, placed the crown on Taylor's head.
Taylor grew up in a cherry orchard in Yakima, and the first time he managed one was when his mother drove him there when he was 14, Sullivan said in introducing Taylor.
He joined Stemilt's sales team in 1994 and is known for pioneering consumer packaging, contributing to increased retail sales, and passionately pursuing higher prices for fruit.
Taylor has served on numerous fruit industry committees, including the Washington Cherry Marketing Board, Washington Department of Agriculture, Processed Pear Board, and Northwest Pear Board. In December, he received the Silver Pear Award at the Washington State Fruit Tree Association Annual Meeting.
He and his family of five operate an orchard growing apples, pears and about 300 acres of cherries near Wenatchee.
inspiring keynote speech
Former NFL linebacker Shaquem Griffin gave a moving keynote speech at the lunch about relying on family and faith to overcome doubt, fear and adversity.
Griffin was born with amniotic syndrome, which meant that the fingers on his left hand were underdeveloped and extremely sensitive to pain. Doctors amputated his hand when he was four years old. He, along with his twin brother Shaquille, went on to star high school and college football in Florida. Both brothers were drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2018.
Griffin said losing his hand freed him up to play rough sports with his brothers, and asked the lunch crowd: My own? “
Griffin will retire in 2022, join NFL Legends, a group of former players who mentor current players, and now works as a motivational speaker and advocate for disability inclusion.
He was asked one question related to fruit. The question was, how do you think the fruit industry should market cherries? He suggested social media, especially videos that show the effort behind the product. I find this fascinating in all areas and topics.
“Promote your work,” he said.
—Written by Kate Prengman and Ross Courtney
