Ask Char Smith how long she’s been in the fruit business and the answer is quite simple, “My entire life”. A member of the Grigg’s family, Char brings 5 generations of fruit industry experience to her role as Plant Manager for the Chelan Fruit Company. While Char has worked for a short period outside the fruit industry, she came back to her family's roots. It's simple, for the Griggs family, growing fruit is just what they do.
Transitions are a large part of the fruit growing business - typically marked by the seasons. Right now, Char’s plant is preparing for the transition from apples to the soon to be harvested Orondo Ruby cherry.
Forever keeping an eye on color and quality, Char’s attention to detail is the perfect match for this beautiful, sweet and unique cherry. Quality is something the Griggs family has been known for for a very long time.
Through each harvest season, Char’s hustling packing facility is filled with activity, yet very far from normal. In short, there is no such thing as a normal day - part of what Char enjoys about her job.
When not packing fruit, Char spends time with her family. These days, it seems as though each waking hour is spent lovingly watching her kids play soccer. As Char puts it, she wouldn’t have it any other way.
We’re thankful for Char’s watchful eye as the Orondo Ruby gets packed for it’s trip to a local store, and ultimately to your table. We’re counting the final days to the 2014 cherry harvest. Here’s to another wonderful year of cherries!
Monday, June 16, 2014 at 1:17PM 
