The Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association (MCVGA) is proud to announce the establishment of the Rich Smith Memorial Research Fund in celebration of the life and extraordinary accomplishments of Richard Smith. Owner of Paraiso Vineyard and Valley Farm Management, Rich was a pioneer in the Monterey wine region and a national leader in the industry. He strongly believed in the importance of viticulture research to foster the success of our region. Rich passed away on December 27, 2015 surrounded by the family and vineyards he loved dearly.
“Rich was a true leader and gentlemen,” shares Kim Stemler, Executive Director of the MCVGA. “The way he lived his life, both professionally and personally, is an inspiration to all knew him. It is a distinguished honor for the Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association to be able to celebrate his life by investing in the future of our region through viticultural research. Our desire is that this fund grow into an endowment in the future.”
Contributions to the fund will directly support local viticulture research through the U.C. Cooperative Extension Program, Monterey. Donations may be made to the Monterey County Vintners & Growers Foundation. More information is available at montereywines.org/foundation or by calling 831.375.9400.
The Monterey County Vintners & Growers Foundation is exempt from tax under section 501 (c) 3 of the Internal Revenue Code and qualifies for the maximum charitable contribution deduction allowed by law.
The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation has also established The Richard Smith Memorial Fellowship Fund in his honor. Donations to this fund may be made at agleaders.org
