Nogales, AZ- The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas is saddened to learn about the death of Former U.S. Representative Ed Pastor. From 1991-2002 Ed Pastor was the elected representative for the district covering Nogales. As Arizona’s first Latino Congressman, Ed Pastor worked hard to advocate for the produce industry, as well as securing funds for organizations in Santa Cruz County.

“FPAA has been blessed to be represented by several great Congressmen. Where we have grown the relationship with Rep. Raul Grijalva in recent years, prior to this Nogales was in Congressman Pastor’s district,” said FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer. “He was very attentive to the community and made many good friends over the years.”

Pastor fought for funding in the district, including the funding that created the Ruby Road interchange (exit 12) and the Rio Rico Frontage Road that serves the warehouse district. Pastor also secured funding for the Santa Cruz County Courts Complex that bears his name.

Several Members of the Board of Directors of the FPAA offered their recollections of Former U.S. Rep Ed Pastor.

“Congressman Ed Pastor was a good man, a real professional, and a friend to the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas. He made a difference.” – Walter Ram, Vice President of Food Safety, Giumarra Cos.

“This is very sad. Congressman Pastor helped secure funding for the Boys & Girls Club gym in Santa Cruz County. This was very important for a community that lacks resources. He was great for Nogales and we will miss him.” – Chris Ciruli, Ciruli Bros.

About the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas:

The FPAA is a nonprofit trade association headquartered in Nogales, Arizona, that represents over 120 U.S. member companies involved in growing, packing, sales and transportation of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Mexico.  The FPAA leverages the efforts of private companies and partner-associations to increase the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetable from Mexico.  Produce from Mexico accounts for approximately 37 percent of fruit and vegetable consumption in the U.S. during the winter months.  The Mariposa Port of Entry located in Nogales, Arizona, is the largest port of entry for fresh produce imported into the U.S. from Mexico.