The Mellano and Castellano family , a mathematical group of longtime flower farmers and dedicated industry volunteers , were named the 2019 Flower Farm Champions by the California Cut Flower Commission ( CCFC ) at its recent annual merging . The families are the fourth recipient of this prestigious award .
Mike Mellano Sr . , Sharon Mellano and Mike A. Mellano acceptedthe Flower Farm Champion Award on behalf of the Mellano and Castellano family for their impingement over propagation on the flower - farming industry . picture by Linda Blue Photography .
The Mellano and Castellano mob were know for their enduring and active affaire in the stinger efflorescence industry , and for having host an American Grown Field to Vase Dinner for a book - setting five age in a row . Mellano & Company CEO Mike A. Mellano was also acknowledged for being a past CCFC death chair and for serving on the display board of the Kee Kitayama Research Foundation .
The Mellano mob came from a modest mountain town in Italy and moved to Southern California in the early 1920s to grow refreshed flowers of exceptional mantrap . photograph provided by Mellano & Company
Present for the award ceremony were Mike A. Mellano , Mike Mellano Sr . , Sharon Mellano and members of the Castellano family . During the demonstration , Mike Mellano Sr . narrate a slideshow and partake in story about the family ’s account and adventures in bloom farming .
The class were presented with a watch crystal vase inscribe with the word “ Flower Farm Champion Award , ” and each fellowship member received a bouquet of California Grown Flowers .
Photo by Linda Blue Photography .
The Flower Farm Champion honor has become a steady tradition for CCFC – a chance to honor influencers and donor to the homegrown cut flower cause .
In 2018 , the Flower Farm Champion award conk out to Santa Barbara County Agricultural Commissioner Cathy Fisher . Crystal Hedgpeth , floral sales director for Safeway ’s Northern California Division , earned the honour in 2017 ; and in 2016 , the recipient was Lois Capps , former U.S. Representative for California ’s 24th Congressional district .
For more information : California Cut Flower CommissionPO Box 90225 , Santa Barbara , CA93190-0225www.ccfc.org
