Garden Fresh Receives County Proclamation

(C. Proxmire, Dec. 17, 2012)

Garden Fresh Salsa was honored on Dec. 13 by the Oakland County Commission, with a proclamation stating:

            WHEREAS, Michigan is the source of many great locally produced commodities and brands, and as a state is interested in keeping manufacturing and jobs in Michigan; and

WHEREAS, Jack and Annette Aronson began a business in Ferndale in 1997, in the back of a small diner crafting fresh, all-natural salsa. The product became popular and began to grow in distribution across the region.  In ensuing years, Garden Fresh Gourmet has grown to become the #1 brand and largest manufacturer of fresh salsa and deli chips, in the U.S. and Canada; and

            WHEREAS, Garden Fresh Gourmet should surpass the $100 million revenue mark this year. The company employs 423 people and has four manufacturing facilities, which are all based in Michigan. Jack Aronson has worked with the City of Ferndale and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to streamline support of local businesses and manufacturing. He has been recognized and honored by two of Michigan Governors as well as local and state Chambers of Commerce organizations. Garden Fresh Gourmet executives have traveled with state officials to Israel, Brazil, and China to promote Michigan’s manufacturing and businesses; and 

            WHEREAS, Jack and Annette Aronson have been extremely generous in giving to charitable organizations, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Justin’s Vision; Children’s Hospital of Michigan;  Boys & Girls Club;  Salvation Army;  University of Michigan  Cancer Center; Ferndale Community Foundation; Michigan AIDS Coalition and Ferndale Youth Assistance. They have provided disaster relief for victim of both Hurricane Katrina and Sandy, and for victims of the Haitian Earthquake; and

            WHEREAS,  the company is a leader in green efforts, donating food to Gleaners, composting by-products for local farms, recycling materials  and reducing energy use. It is through such efforts that make Garden Fresh Gourmet an outstanding corporate citizen. It is with great appreciation for the Aronsons’ vision and leadership and Garden Fresh Gourmet that we thank them for their service and applaud their success. 

            THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT WE,  the Oakland County Board of Commissioners recognize and salute Jack and Annette Aronson for promoting Michigan business, for supporting our local economy, for generous giving to charities, for creating healthy new products and for providing jobs for hundreds of our residents in the greatest traditions of the American entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropy.

               Attested to this 13th day of December 2012, at Pontiac, Michigan.