Pacific Nut Producer Magazine

Tag: FFA students

  • Scholarship Luncheon Honors 28 FFA High School Seniors

    A record 28 senior high school students each received an award of $1,000 – $3,500 out of a total $59,000 — the most the Chamber has ever distributed in one year. Over the years, they have given out a cumulative $547,000.

    “This represents not just financial support, but a vote of confidence from your community,” remarked past recipient Gianna Gonzalez to the awardees at the Turlock Chamber of Commerce Ag Scholarship Committee’s 26th Annual Scholarship Luncheon on March 17.

    The recipients stepped to the microphone, smiled and shared the college they plan to attend and their career goal. The career areas included equine dentistry, ag law, ag education, farming, cooperative extension, ag engineering, viticulture and enology, rangeland resource management, ag business, veterinary service, ag communication and policy, pest control advising and soil science.

    The Hughson Future Farmers of America (FFA) decorated the tables at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds Hall with custom wood planter boxes filled with miniature pansies. Silver Hershey kisses and snack packs of Blue Diamond almonds dotted the tables as well. Farm Truck Catering served a grilled chicken lunch.

    The event was possible due to support by Garton Tractor and Lander Veterinary Clinic, along with Platinum Sponsors Manulife Investment Management and Stanislaus Food Products and Gold Sponsors InsureCAL and Yosemite Farm Credit.

    A total of 30 silver and bronze sponsors and five in-kind donors filled out the sponsor list, and many volunteers — including the students — pitched in to set up and clean up.    — By Nancy Power, Assistant Editor

  • Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo Awarded Almond Champion of the Year

    The Almond Alliance is pleased to announce Assemblywoman Alexandra Macedo as the recipient of the 2025 Almond Champion of the Year Award. Assemblywoman Macedo is being recognized for her leadership on key issues affecting California agriculture and the almond industry. She has advanced efforts to address abandoned agricultural properties and invasive species, supported improvements to water infrastructure and wildfire prevention, and worked to reduce fuel costs for Californians. Her practical approach and engagement on agricultural policy reflect a strong commitment to the state’s farming communities.

    “Assemblywoman Macedo has taken a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach to some of the biggest challenges facing California agriculture,” said Alexi Rodriguez, CEO of the Almond Alliance. “Her focus on abandoned land, water infrastructure, and wildfire prevention demonstrates an understanding of the pressures facing the almond industry today.”

    The Almond Champion of the Year Award is presented annually to individuals who demonstrate leadership in education, coalition building, partnerships, and the advancement of policies that support California agriculture, including the almond industry. Assemblywoman Macedo’s efforts reflect the purpose and spirit of this recognition.

    Past recipients of this prestigious award include Assemblymember Juan Alanis, Department of Water Resources, Assemblymember Adam Gray, Assemblymember Heath Flora, former USDA State Executive Director of Farm Service Agency Connie Conway, Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua, and CDFA Undersecretary Christie Birdsong.

    The award will be formally presented to Assemblywoman Macedo at the California Almond Political Action Committee’s Annual Modesto Fundraiser, taking place at Del Rio Country Club on November 5, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. This event brings together members of the almond community, FFA students, elected officials, and special guests.

    For RSVPs or more information, please contact Annie Romero at 209-300-7140 or aromero@almondalliance.org.

    About the Almond Alliance

    Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture.

    Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org.