USDA Foreign Ag Service — Did you know that women are responsible for roughly half of the world’s food production? The United Nations’ designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer gives the global community a chance to highlight that fact and celebrate the incredibly important role women play in ensuring global food security. At the same time, it’s an unprecedented opportunity to underscore – and to address – the myriad social and economic challenges that women in agriculture face worldwide.
We’re so proud of USDA’s role in leading U.S. government efforts to introduce and generate support for the resolution, which was cosponsored by 123 other nations and passed by the UN General Assembly in May. This marked the first time in history that the United States was the lead sponsor of an “international year” at the UN, demonstrating just how important the role of women in agriculture is to our department, our nation and the world.
USDA recently hosted a gathering of more than 200 partners and stakeholders on USDA’s Whitten Patio (along with another 800 who joined us online!) to celebrate the resolution’s passage and to begin networking and sharing ideas for how to make the 2026 observance of the International Year of the Woman Farmer a momentous and transformational one.
In addition to the many female agricultural leaders in attendance, we were joined onstage by Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur, who also serves as president of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, and Lauren Phillips, who serves as Deputy Director of Rural Transformation and Gender Equality at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. We’re grateful to them for sharing their insights and experiences and we’re also grateful that U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas Greenfield was able to join us via video to issue a call to action.
“The International Year of the Women Farmer offers governments, civil society, the private sector and other stakeholders the opportunity to better understand the challenges women face, help close the gender gap and get us closer to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield said. “Together, let’s amplify the voices of women farmers and better understand their financial and technological needs. Let’s ensure access to credit markets, education and technology and build strong networks for mentorship and knowledge exchange. Let’s support changes in social norms that empower women farmers and implement policies that give them access and control over their land.”
We’re deeply grateful for the hard work women farmers do day in and day out to feed our nation and our world. As we continue along the road towards 2026, we encourage everyone to join our efforts to elevate and empower women in agriculture worldwide. You can learn more at www.usda.gov/iywf.
After extensive judging of quality California-produced olive oils, The Big Fresno Fair is excited to reveal the 9th Annual San Joaquin Valley Olive Oil Competition (SJVOOC) winners. This competition, which is open to all olive oil producers in California with products made from their 2023 olive harvest, received a total of 54 entries from 20 different olive oil producers from throughout the State.
Entries were received in two categories: Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) and Flavored Olive Oil, with 10 classes in total. Gold and Silver Medals were awarded, as well as an overall “Best of Show” and “Best of the Valley” selected from all of the highest scoring gold medal entries in both categories. In total, there were 41 EVOO and 13 Flavored Olive Oil entries that were entered for judging. The winners of the 9th Annual San Joaquin Valley Olive Oil Competition are as follows with the counties of ranch locations noted in parenthesis:
Best of Show
Olivaia’s OLA Block x Super Blend (Tulare County) – EVOO
ENZO Olive Oil Company Organic Fresno Chili Crush (Fresno County) – Flavored Olive Oil
Best of the Valley
Olivaia’s OLA Block x Super Blend (Tulare County) – EVOO
Extra Virgin Olive Oils
Gold Medal Winners
Spanish Blends: Joseph Gallo Farms JG Family Estate (Merced County), Olivaia’s OLA Block x Super Blend (Tulare County) – EVOO
Spanish Singles: Cobram Estates Everyday Essentials Mild (Yolo County), ENZO Olive Oil Company Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Delicate (Fresno County), ENZO Olive Oil Company Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Medium (Fresno County), Golden Harvest Estates Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Calaveras County), Olivaia’s OLA Estate Sevillano (Tulare County), Rancho Azul y Oro Olive Farm Arbequina (Monterey County)
Italian Blends: Rancho Azul y Oro Olive Farm Estate Blend (Monterey County), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Eleganza Elite (San Luis Obispo County), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Fantastico (San Luis Obispo County), San Miguel Olive Farm Tuscan Gold Magnifico (San Luis Obispo County), Tres Osos Olive Oil Robust (Monterey County)
Italian Singles: Sutter Buttes Natural Organic Coratina (Sutter County)
Other Blends: Olivaia’s OLA Block X Heirloom (Tulare County)Silver Medal Winners:
Spanish Blends: California Olive Ranch’s 100% CA EVOO (Glenn County), California Olive Ranch Miller’s Blend (Glenn County), Corto Olive Oil Truly (San Joaquin County)
Spanish Singles: California Olive Ranch Reserve Arbequina (Glenn County), California Olive Ranch Reserve Arbosana (Glenn County), Mangini Ranch Olive Oil Picual Reserve (Calaveras County), Olive Crush Farms Arbequina (Calaveras County)
Italian Blends: Regency Olive Ranch Robust (Santa Barbara County)
Italian Singles: La Torre Olive Oil Ascolano (Tulare County)
Other Singles: ENZO Olive Oil Company Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Bold (Fresno County)
Flavored Olive Oils
Gold Medal Winners
Citrus: ENZO Olive Oil Organic Eureka Lemon Crush (Fresno County), ENZO Olive Oil Organic Clementine Crush Olive Oil (Fresno County), Rancho Azul y Oro Olive Farm Orange Infused Olive Oil (Monterey County)
Pepper: Corto Olive Co. Calabrian Chili (San Joaquin County), ENZO Olive Oil Company Organize Fresno Chili Crush (Fresno County), Sutter Buttes Citrus Habanero (Sutter County)
Herbal: ENZO Olive Oil Company Organic Basil Crush (Fresno County)
Other: Sutter Buttes Garlic Herb Olive Oil (Sutter County)
All winners will be on display in the Agriculture Building with educational information on the art of making olive oil and its health benefits. Gold Medal, Best of Show and Best of the Valley winners will have the opportunity to have a booth in the Agriculture Building during the 2024 Big Fresno Fair.
Participants in the 2024 SJVOOC were evaluated and scored on the following criteria:
Gold Medal: Awarded to an olive oil that demonstrated its type and/or varietal character, balance, structure and complexities to the highest standards. Gold Medals were awarded to those oils receiving scores between 86 – 100 points.
Silver Medal: Awarded to an olive oil reflecting the correct distribution of balance and character of its type or variety; an oil deemed to be well crafted and of excellent quality. Silver Medals were awarded to those oils receiving scores between 76 – 85 points.
Best of Show: Awarded to an olive oil recognized to possess special characteristics of the highest quality overall.
Best of the Valley: Awarded to the oil that scored the highest with the ranch or office located in the San Joaquin Valley. Medals were awarded for both EVOO and flavored oils. (Kern, Tulare, Kings, Fresno, Madera, Merced, Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties eligible)
Details and the 2025 SJVOOC entry application will be posted in February 2025.
About The Big Fresno Fair:
The Big Fresno Fair, founded in 1884, is the 5th largest fair in the state of California and represents the 21st District Agricultural Association. Over 500,000 people from throughout the state visit The Big Fresno Fair each year, making it the largest annual event in the Central Valley. Members of the Board of Directors include: Terry Gonsalves, President; Gary Chahil, Vice President; Frank Flores, Secretary/Treasurer; Linda Mae Balakian Hunsucker; Jerry Pacheco; Annalisa Perea, Chuck Riojas and Lawrence Salinas. The 2024 Big Fresno Fair will run October 2 – 14. For more details, please visit www.FresnoFair.com.
The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF) and the Ag Leadership Alumni Council has presented the 2024 Lifetime Leadership Award to Mike Campbell, Paul Martin, Ed McLaughlin and John Muller. The award honors California Agricultural Leadership Program alumni who have demonstrated leadership throughout their lifetime, thereby making a significant difference in California agriculture, their industry and community.
“We are proud to honor these four incredible individuals who embody servant leadership,” said CALF Board Chair Mike Young (35). “As lifelong leaders and role models, they have selflessly served the agriculture industry and their communities to make lasting and meaningful impacts. We applaud them for their dedication, passion and valuable contributions over many decades.”
This year’s recipients were recognized during the CALF Alumni Conference on June 27 at the Monterey Conference Center.
ABOUT THE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Mike Campbell (Class 3) of Clarksburg has provided outstanding leadership to agriculture, higher education, his community and CALF. Following military service, he farmed in the Sacramento Delta during the 1970s and early 1980s and began his volunteer service. In 1982, he was chosen to serve as a White House Fellow in Washington, D.C., the second farmer selected in the 70-year history of the Program. His service to UC Davis includes leadership roles in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the Cal Aggie Alumni Association. The university and college have recognized him for his service and leadership. Campbell also played an instrumental role in the creation of UC Merced. He has generously given back to his community through his leadership of organizations supporting youth and community enhancement. The latest being his leadership to restore the community’s landmark 1883 Schoolhouse as a Delta Welcome, History and Education Center. He is respected for his extensive work on Delta projects that benefit the region, including as president and co-founder of the Delta Leadership Foundation. His dedicated leadership with CALF includes campus coordinator for 13 years, Alumni Council Director and host of numerous CALF recruitment events, dinners for the new Classes and Class 3 reunions in his home.
“The Ag Leadership Program has been a wonderful gift in my life since 1972,” said Campbell. “I am very grateful to my nominators, the Alumni Council and the Foundation for this wonderful recognition. Receiving this prestigious award from an organization that has done so much to enrich my life makes me feel extremely proud and humbled.”
Paul Martin (Class 10) of Petaluma
Paul Martin (Class 10) of Petaluma has been a prominent leader in agriculture with a focus on the dairy industry and his county. Hegrew up on the family dairy in Petaluma and after graduating from UC Davis in 1965, volunteered for the U.S. Army. Upon his return from Vietnam in the early 1970s, Martin and his wife, Jill, operated the dairy. In the late 1990s, he joined Western United Dairymen (WUD) as the local field representative and within a few years became its director of environmental services. With his dairy background, career at WUD, work with federal and state agencies and service on many industry boards, Martin was known as a collaborator and trailblazer that made a positive difference for dairy farmers. He also mentored countless industry professionals about environmental law, regulatory prowess and leadership lessons. In 2012, he was appointed as a deputy director in the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. After two years, he retired to Two Rock Valley, the family’s 105-year-old ranch, where they run a small herd of beef cattle. Additionally, Martin has dedicated his time to UC Davis programs, community activities and volunteer firefighting. He has been honored by UC Davis and organizations for his leadership.
“This is a wonderful award and I am absolutely honored that you felt I am worthy of receiving it,” said Martin. “To say I was surprised is an understatement at best. Recognition by Ag Leadership and its alumni – who have themselves done so much for agriculture – is very touching! A special thanks goes to my friends and colleagues who submitted my nomination. It means a lot to me.”
Ed McLaughlin (Class 11) of Durham
Ed McLaughlin (Class 11) of Durham has been an exceptional leader in the agriculture industry, his county and community. A longtime almond and walnut farmer, he has held leadership roles for myriad industry organizations, including the Butte County Farm Bureau, California Farm Bureau and the Butte County Farm City Celebration. He served on the Silver Dollar Fair – Third District Agricultural Association for more than 25 years, including several terms as president. McLaughlin has also focused his time and efforts on groundwater as a founding member of the Butte County Tuscan Water District and Ag Groundwater Users of Butte County. His commitment to local schools and youth is reflected in volunteerism for the Chico High School Friends of Agriculture, Durham Unified School District board, Little League and FFA. McLaughlin also demonstrated his leadership and tireless work on important issues while serving on the Butte County Board of Supervisors from 1984-1996, including several terms as chair. He is known for his hard work, enthusiasm, positive attitude and dedication. He has been honored by the Butte County Farm Bureau and Farm City Celebration for his leadership and service.
“I was very surprised and humbled to be receiving this award since there are so many other deserving alumni who work tirelessly to protect and promote California’s most important industry,” said McLaughlin. “I would like to thank my family, friends and all the Ag Leadership alumni for this very humbling award. Also, thank you to Ag Leadership staff, volunteers and donors who deserve the credit for the program’s success.”
John Muller (Class 8) of Half Moon Bay
John Muller (Class 8),of Half Moon Bay, has been an exemplary leader at the local, regional, state and national level. For decades, “Farmer John” and his wife, Eda, owned and operated a pumpkin and flower farm, through which they welcomed thousands of visitors annually and took the farm experience to urban schools. Deeply connected to his community, he served on the Half Moon Bay City Council and as mayor, volunteers for many local events and donates seeds to various groups. His service to agriculture and water issues includes the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Board, Coastside County Water District board and the Association of California Water Agencies – Region 5. He also served on the American Florists Government Relations Committee, the U.S. EPA Local Government Advisory Committee and a USDA trade advisory committee. Since 2007, he has been a member of the FBI Citizens Academy in the San Francisco Bay region. A steadfast supporter of Ag Leadership since commencing from the program, Muller served on the Ag Leadership Alumni board, CALF board and the Washington, D.C. Educational Exchange Program committee. A U.S. Navy Vietnam veteran, Muller has been honored with several awards for his leadership and volunteerism, including the 2008 President’s Volunteer Service Award.
“I am truly humbled and honored to be recognized by Ag Leadership, an organization that so deeply shaped my life and gave me the tools to become a leader,” said Muller. “Thank you to Ag Leadership for accepting me into Class 8, to alumni for the friendship and support over these 45 years, to the amazing founders of this program, to the four partner universities and to those who have chosen me for this award.”
ABOUT CALF is dedicated to growing leadership in agriculturalists who have the capacity and potential to advance, benefit and promote California agriculture. Since 1970, more than 1,400 California Agricultural Leadership Program fellows have become lifelong leaders who individually and collectively act as a catalyst for a vibrant agricultural community and make a significant difference in the agricultural industry, their businesses, communities and families.
Save the date and get ready to immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the San Joaquin Valley at The Whole Vine Festival, October 19-20, 2024. This highly anticipated two-day event is a magnificent tribute to all things related to table grapes, raisins, and wine. Growers and consumers alike are cordially invited to mix and mingle at this 2nd annual event coming to the prestigious Fresno State campus.
Vickie Goudreau, President of the Whole Vine Festival (Left) and Matthew Malcolm, Editor of American Vineyard Magazine and Whole Vine Festival Board Member (Right).
With immense support from Festival Founding Supporters: American Vineyard Magazine and the California Table Grape Commission, Fresno State, Builder Supporters: Sun-Maid Growers, Farm Credit, and the Raisin Administrative Committee, Grower Supporters: Marthedal Farms & Enterprises, the California Fresh Fruit Association, Electric Motor Shop & Supply Co., Spencer Enterprises, Inc., and other amazing partners, the inaugural Whole Vine Festival was a big hit last year and is poised to expand in 2024.
The Whole Vine Festival is a grand affair that embraces the spirit of our community. Explore an array of shopping opportunities featuring local businesses and artisan vendors offering unique products that reflect the heart and soul of our Valley. Engage your children in the fun-filled and educational kids’ areas, brimming with ag-related and creative activities. Marvel at captivating exhibits that pay homage to everything grape and the hardworking farming families of the Valley.
Wine and beer enthusiasts can unwind and relax in a separate area dedicated to the exquisite pleasures of San Joaquin Valley wine and beer tasting. An exclusive area featuring displays and booths highlighting cutting-edge innovations and technologies in Viticulture and Enology will also be showcased, underscoring the depth and breadth of support for our beloved grape industry.
Reflecting on the inaugural 2023 event, Vickie Goudreau, President of the Whole Vine Festival, shared, “It was so satisfying to see people enjoy ‘everything grape’ and the incredible talent that exists right here within the San Joaquin Valley community at the first Whole Vine Festival. We have so much to be proud of in our Valley! Firmly planted with community support, we look forward to creating future festivals that continue to highlight and celebrate grape, raisin, and wine – and the people who make it all happen!”
Of American Vineyard Magazine’s support for this event, Editor-in-Chief Matthew Malcolm shared, “In all the history of the world, there has never been a greater gap and disconnect between farmer and the end consumer than there is today. The Whole Vine Festival will be a fun and exciting way to help bridge that gap, where grower and consumer can celebrate the harvest together. We hope in turn, valley communities will gain a greater understanding of and appreciation for agriculture – and all that goes into producing local raisin, wine, and table grapes.”
Goudreau added, “Join us for The Whole Vine Festival, a celebration of community spirit highlighting the best that the San Joaquin Valley has to offer.”
The Whole Vine Festival organizers are currently seeking sponsorships, volunteers, local vendors and wineries. For more details, visit www.TheWholeVine.com.
Join more than 400 strawberry growers, researchers and industry representatives for this year’s Strawberry Center Field Day on Thursday, August 8th from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (check-in beginning at 7:30 a.m.). Participants will rotate through stations, hearing from students and staff about the latest research taking place at the Strawberry Center at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Topics include the newest automation technology, predatory mites, soil-borne pathogens of strawberry and much more. “We look forward to sharing the center’s latest research and happenings,” shares Julie Tillman from the Strawberry Center. Registration opens in April/May and includes lunch. For attendee and sponsorship information (now available), click HERE.
Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG), the nonprofit that organizes Santa Barbara County Farm Day and Ventura County Farm Day, is looking for farmers, agricultural-related businesses, and others to become event sponsors and participants. The 2024 Santa Barbara County Farm Day will be on August 24, while Ventura County Farm Day will be on November 2.
“Farm Day has grown to become the largest community agricultural education and outreach program in California,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO. “Over 15,000 people visit our agricultural venues during our two Farm Days.”
Each year on Farm Day, sponsoring farms and ag-related businesses open their doors to the public. They offer tours, tastings, and produce and product giveaways. Other sponsors have booths at the Farm Day Hub and are included in Farm Day marketing campaigns.
“Farm Day visitors come away from the tours with a deeper appreciation and understanding of agriculture’s importance as they learn about what goes into planting, growing, and harvesting our food. By sponsoring and participating in Farm Day, you’re demonstrating your commitment to connecting the public with the agricultural community,” says Maranville.
Current Farm Day sponsors include Driscoll’s, Gene Haas Foundation, County of Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Foundation, Edwin and Jeanne Woods Family Foundation, AgWest Farm Credit, California Giant Berry Farms, Church Brothers Farms, Mission Produce, The Land Trust of Santa Barbara, Al Lowe Construction, Duda Farms, Engle & Gray, Innovative Produce, Santa Maria Berry Farms and Scott Family Foundation.
Founded in 2008, Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that aims to help young students understand the origins of their food by bridging
the gap between agriculture and consumption through its agricultural education programming. SEEAG’s “The Farm Lab” program teaches schoolchildren about the origins of their food and
the importance of local farmland by providing schools with classroom agricultural education and free field trips to farms. Through this and other SEEAG programs, over 100,000 elementary school students in Central and Southern California have increased their understanding of the food journey. Each year, it hosts Santa Barbara Farm Day and Ventura County Farm Day where the public can visit local farms and other agriculture-related entities. For more information, visit www.seeag.org or email Mary Maranville at mary@seeag.org.
Attendees and exhibitors from around the world returned to Tulare for the 57th Annual World Ag Expo®, the world’s largest annual outdoor agricultural exposition. The three-day show boasted 1,258 exhibitors on 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, and hosted over 100,000 attendees representing 49 states, the District of Columbia, and 81 countries.
Exhibitors reported quality traffic with plans to return. “The World Ag Expo® connected farm-ng with forward thinking farmers from around the world,” stated Nathan Dorn, Business Development Manager with farm-ng. “Our team learned from a marketplace of engaged users. We will be back in 2025 with new tools and capabilities.”
Farmers, students, and ag professionals returned in large numbers for the 2024 show. With many exhibitors offering test drives or demonstrations, World Ag Expo® provides attendees the opportunity to network and learn about the latest Ag equipment, services, and technology.
More than 100 educational seminars, demonstrations, and workshops were held over three days and covered a variety of topics ranging from irrigation to dairy, livestock to professional development, and more. The Fresno State WET Center Innovation Pitch Event and the Women in Ag Session featuring Senator Melissa Hurtado, and other influential women in agriculture, were notable sessions.
“2024 World Ag Expo® was once again a tremendous success,” said Jerry Sinift, CEO of the International Agri-Center®. “Exhibitors and attendees alike have shared that World Ag Expo® continues to provide a great return on their investment of time and money. It is the place to be for anything agriculture.”
Ag technology and innovation were yet again a highlight of the event. Autonomous solutions, electric vehicles, and drones continued to showcase the technological advancements featured in agriculture. The 2024 Top-10 New Products contest winners provided a look into the latest innovation and technology ranging from simple solutions to tech-forward items.
Other popular attractions at the 2024 World Ag Expo® included various drone displays, WW Livestock Demonstration Pavilion, and Food Booths. The 2025 World Ag Expo® will be held February 11-13.
The Agriculture Council of America (ACA) announced March 19, 2024, will be National Agriculture Day with the theme of “Agriculture: Growing a Climate for Tomorrow.”
Activities planned for March 19 feature a virtual Ag Day program, and in-person events in Washington DC. ACA will invite students to interact virtually with legislators and agency representatives, delivering the Ag Day message. A core leadership team of college students will participate in the DC events, along with representatives of national farm and commodity organizations, representatives of the food, fuel, and fiber communities.
Jenny Pickett, ACA President says students from AFA, 4-H, FFA, and MANNRS participated in 2023 National Ag Day. “Students are interested in advocating on behalf of agriculture and their future roles in the industry. Their participation in National Ag Day activities provides a glimpse of the future of agriculture. It’s exciting to learn from the students what they think agriculture will be like in the years ahead, and how their involvement will shape the industry and America as a whole.”
According to USDA Economic Research Service* more than 22 million full- and part-time jobs were related to the agricultural and food sector, or roughly 10 percent of all US employment. On-farm jobs represented about 2.6 million jobs, or a little over one percent of US employment. Take that a step further, agriculture- and food-related jobs totaled more than 19 million.
“More and more, students and individuals are finding careers in agriculture. The industry needs scientists, biologists, food safety technicians, livestock nutrition specialists, arborists, conservationists – one doesn’t have to be a farmer or have a direct on-farm job to be involved in the agriculture industry,” Pickett says.
2024 National Ag Day marks the 51st year of the nationwide effort to share real stories of American agriculture, and remind citizens that agriculture affects everyone. “From the food we eat and the fuel for our vehicles, to the fiber in the clothes we wear, and the oil used to make kids’ crayons, agriculture touches everyone in some way,” Pickett says.
The National Ag Day program encourages every American to:
Understand how food, fiber, and fuel products are produced.
Appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant, and affordable products.
Value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy.
Acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food and fiber industry.
In addition to the events on March 19, the ACA will offer the Ag Day Essay Contest. Interested students would create video essays on the topic of Agriculture in the Future: If I had two minutes to talk to a farmer.” The winning video essay will be presented on National Ag Day.
Sponsorship opportunities for Ag Day 2024 are available. Visit www.agday.org for more information, or contact Pickett to discuss sponsorship opportunities, or with any additional questions.
About Agriculture Council of America
Agriculture Council of America, a nonprofit organization composed of leaders in the agricultural, food and fiber community, organizes the annual activities which are part of a national effort to increase the public’s awareness of agriculture’s role in modern society.
The National Dairy Promotion and Research Board (NDB) honored Steve Maddox and Connie Seefeldt as the 2023 co-recipients of the Richard E. Lyng Award for their contributions and distinguished service to dairy promotion.
Maddox is a California dairy farmer, former NDB board member and current Dairy Council of California board member.
Seefeldt is a Wisconsin dairy farmer, former NDB board member and current Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) board member.
Wisconsin dairy farmer Connie Seefeldt was also honored with the Richard E. Lyng Award (Image courtesy of DMI).
The pair was recognized at this week’s Joint NDB/National Milk Producers Federation/United Dairy Industry Association Annual Meeting in Orlando, Fla.
The award is named for former U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Richard E. Lyng, who played a critical role in implementing policies that led to the establishment of NDB more than 35 years ago. It honors leaders who have made a significant contribution to dairy promotion that benefits the entire industry.
Seefeldt, who has served on the DFW board since 1994, is the longest serving board member in the organization’s history. She is the fifth generation on her family’s dairy, which was founded in 1906.
Maddox joined his family’s business in 1978 after graduating from California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo. In addition to dairy farming, the family grows grapes, almonds, alfalfa and silage. Maddox has a passion for dairy promotion and research, which led him to serve on the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy’s sustainability council from 2009-17. Additionally, he held roles on the NDB and Dairy Council of California boards and with the National Milk Producers Federation.
“Steve’s passion for dairy has never wavered and his dedication to promotion and research has been significant in California and across the country,” said Darrin Monteiro, California Dairies Inc. vice president of sustainability and member relations.
As part of the Richard E. Lyng Award, the NDB will contribute $2,500 in each winner’s name to an organization of their choice. Seefeldt has selected the Wisconsin Academy for Rural Medicine program at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Maddox has chosen the Dairy Shrine.
The 37-member National Dairy Board, formed in May 1984 under the authority of the Dairy Promotion Stabilization Act of 1983, carries out coordinated promotion and research program to help build demand, and expand domestic and international markets for dairy products and ingredients. NDB funds, in part, Dairy Management Inc., which manages the national dairy checkoff program.
The vibrant agricultural spirit of Madera is once again in the spotlight as we gear up for the 12th Annual Madera Pomegranate, Fruit & Nut Festival. Mark your calendars for this family-friendly extravaganza, scheduled for Saturday, November 4, from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. at the Madera District Fairgrounds. The best part? Admission and parking are entirely free!
Excited about this year’s event, Debi Bray, President and CEO of the Madera Chamber of Commerce, stated, “We are thrilled to honor Madera’s finest – from agriculture to live music, local products and delectable cuisine. Let’s remember that November is National Pomegranate Month, making this the perfect time to celebrate the pomegranate’s legacy in our beloved region.”
Attendees can look forward to a delightful day brimming with pomegranate food and drink along with other fruit and nut goodies. The festival offers good music and entertainment with over 100 vendors and exhibitors as well as chef-led cooking demonstrations that are always a hit.
The excitement does not stop there! Alongside the delectable pomegranate and nut-inspired treats, the festival boasts an array of thrilling extras:
Ohana Comic Con: Comic book and pop culture enthusiasts are in for a treat as the Ohana Comic Con returns with an epic costume contest, keeping attendees entertained all day. Come in costume to compete! (No admission fee!)
Live Music by Jaded: Get ready to groove with live music from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Classic Car Show: Feast your eyes on a dazzling array of classic cars, a spectacle that is free for all. (No admission fee!)
The Kids’ Zone: Keeping the little ones entertained is a priority, with inflatable fun, games, pony rides, and camel rides for the children to enjoy throughout the day. (No admission fee!)
MadTown Robotics: Championship-winning students will demonstrate their creative abilities and competitive expertise in robotics. The MadTown Robotics team are two-time world champions; they won first in 2019 and again in 2023 at the FIRST Charged Up Robotics Competition. (No admission fee!)
Muay Thai Boxing Competition: Witness the intense action of Muay Thai, a martial art/combat sport originating in Thailand. Participants of all ages from across the region will be competing. (Admission fee applies.)
ValleyStealz Streetwear & Thrift Expo: Streetwear enthusiasts are in for a treat as ValleyStealz hosts an event featuring a range of streetwear from shoes to jerseys and vintage finds.
In addition to these attractions, over 100 vendors will be at the event, offering a treasure trove of artisanal arts, crafts and so much more!
Join us at the 12th Annual Pomegranate, Fruit & Nut Festival on November 4th for a day filled with flavor, fun and festivities. Admission is free, so make sure to bring your family and friends for an unforgettable day celebrating the heart of Madera’s agricultural heritage.
For more information, please visit www.pomegranatefestival.com or contact the Madera Chamber of Commerce at (559) 673-3563.
About the Madera Pomegranate, Fruit & Nut Festival
The Madera Pomegranate, Fruit & Nut Festival is an annual celebration of Madera’s rich agricultural heritage, highlighting the pomegranate and local nut production. The festival brings the community together for a day of entertainment, education and culinary delights, all in the heart of California’s Central Valley.
About Visit Yosemite | Madera County
Formed in 1985, Visit Yosemite | Madera County’s mission is to draw the millions of Yosemite National Park visitors to its gateway’s many businesses and attractions. We invite visitors to take a journey from the Fossil Discovery Center to the Madera Wine Trail and onward to the High Sierra. Discover incredible dining, talented tradespersons, four seasons of water sports at Bass Lake, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad and mighty adventures right up to the massive Giant Sequoia trees. Madera County is the gateway to so much more.
Extra Virgin Olive Oils
Silver Medal Winners:
Attendees and exhibitors from around the world returned to Tulare for the 57th Annual World Ag Expo®, the world’s largest annual outdoor agricultural exposition. The three-day show boasted 1,258 exhibitors on 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space, and hosted over 100,000 attendees representing 49 states, the District of Columbia, and 81 countries.
