Below are the Candidate Statements for the five open board positions that we will vote on after the next General Membership Meeting on January 31st.
Susan Captain
Since the inception of LWGA in 2005, I have served on the board in various capacities, mostly in sustainable educational information Sal and I gain from attending several seminars/ classes/ symposiums as well as being members of the Wine Institute and the California Grape Growers Association. I also served as President of LWGA for 2 years, and I am on the AVA committee.
Currently, I am spending much effort with other members of our association to ensure that any rules and regulations being prepared by the Moraga city planning department will be -growers/winemakers friendly-; these rules are likely to be duplicated by Orinda and Lafayette. I would like to seek your support again to continue serving. Many Thanks
Carol Haag
I’m Carol Haag and the current Vice President of the Board. I have been on the Board since 2009, serving as the Education Chair and Secretary. My husband, Larry, and I joined LWGA in 2008 as grape growers and have enjoyed the camaraderie and dedication of the group’s members and the educational value from being a member.
In addition to being a grape grower, I am the small business owner of two companies, Scientific Symposiums International and Haag Associates Management Consulting. Prior to owning my own businesses, I was in executive positions at Fortune 500 companies in the Bay Area and Chicago and feel that my corporate and non-profit experience continues to be an asset to the organization by serving as a Board member.
As a Board member, I have contributed to the growth and higher profile of LWGA within the Lamorinda community through several projects, including those with the California Independent Film Festival (CAIFF), the Town of Moraga, the Moraga Chamber of Commerce and Saint Mary’s College of California. I am an early supporter of the AVA and as a Board member have worked on its many phases through submission to be recognized as the Lamorinda AVA.
I believe that LWGA is a valuable Lamorinda community asset, whose full potential is only beginning to be realized, especially with the AVA designation. I would like to continue to contribute to this exciting growth of the organization and would appreciate your vote as a LWGA Board member. Thank you.
Saied Nazeri
My name is Saied Nazeri and I have lived in town of Moraga since 2003. My wife and I have a small vineyard of about 600 vines and are growing three varietals: Syrah, Pinot Noir and Merlot. We were among the original founding members of the LWGA.
Over the last ten years I have served our organization as a board member in various capacities. I started as the vice president for a number of years until last year when, with the new incoming board members, I assumed the role of board secretary.
Our achievements as an organization of growers or wine making families have been impressive as has the quality of wines we produce. We are very close to achieving another important milestone by securing our AVA status. I would like to continue to remain on the board for one more term to help with this exciting transition. Thank you
Dave Rey
My name is Dave Rey and I am a candidate for reelection to the Board. My family and I have have a small vineyard and winery in Lafayette called Reliez Valley Vineyards. I am a longtime member and I am completing my second term on the Board. My primary focus for the last four years has been the creation of the Lamorinda AVA. I would like to serve one more term so that I can see the AVA effort through until completion.
Bill Scanlin
My name is Bill Scanlin, and I planted our vineyard in Lafayette in 1998. We have been growing grapes and making wine since then with Deer Hill Vineyards becoming a bonded winery in 2010. I have served on the board of LWGA since 2008; managing the website and handling other administrative duties.
I believe that we have a great opportunity with our upcoming AVA to become a highly regarded viticultural area. I would like to see our organization promote educational opportunities for both grape growers and wine makers, and I would also like to see us host social events to foster communication between our members and the community. I would appreciate your support!
Celebrating the Lamorinda Appellation Aniversary
