May 18, 2006

A special welcome to Merrill Causey, who recently joined the Index Fresh team as CFO. Merrill's involvement in the produce business began when he was recruited by The Albert Fisher Group PLC, an international processor and distributor to customers in Europe and North America.

Merrill earned his degree from Auburn University in Alabama. He has served with Fortune 100 companies, as well as smaller, fast-growing organizations. He earned his MBA from Nova Southeastern University and is a Certified Public Accountant. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). His success in growth companies was the catalyst for his recruitment to California in 1998. His career has led him through the operational and financial sides of the produce industry; since that time, he has worked with FreshPoint, Inc, and with Ready Pac Foods, Inc.

When asked about his recent appointment, Merrill replied, "I am pleased to join a company such as Index Fresh. This organization is positioned for rapid growth, and I am excited by the possibilities that I envision for this company. My goals are to work with the management team to develop and execute a plan to drive efficiencies that will reward, not only Index Fresh, the company, but our employees, customers, and suppliers automate the functions that are already in place."

As a Board member of Pac Kids-to-Camp, a not-for-profit, Merrill enjoys being involved in his community. With the mission to encourage underprivileged children to incorporate healthy eating habits, this organization provides grants that allow children to attend camp. He shares, "I enjoy being involved in an environment that puts people first; working for a company that shares these same values is a high priority. I am very pleased at the great importance that Index places upon individuals."

Merrill and Carolina, his wife enjoy traveling, hiking and biking.