Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1170186
17 ALMOND COMMUNITY Continued from page 16 When did you first become involved in the industry? Micah Zeff (MZ): I graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder in 2001 with a bachelor's in political science. I then spent one year working as a field representative in a California State assemblymember's district office before joining the Peace Corps, where I spent two years as an Agriculture Extension Volunteer in Paraguay. Since returning to California, I have spent the last 14 years working in a variety of capacities in the industry: I am a third-generation almond grower, growing in Stanislaus and Merced counties, and an almond handler at Montpelier Nut Company. What does it mean to sit on ABC's Board of Directors? MZ: I have a deep affinity for our industry and a profound appreciation for a crop that has provided for countless California families, including my own. The Almond Board has played an integral part in growing our industry, expanding our markets as we've increased the size of our crop and enhancing and protecting our industry's image in the Central Valley and abroad. Serving on the Board of Directors has allowed me to be an advocate for growers and handlers and provides me with an opportunity to give back to the industry that has given so much to me. What about the industry do you most appreciate and take pride in? MZ: The California almond industry is full of dynamic, forward-thinking people who are committed to producing a safe, healthy food in the most responsible manner possible. I am extremely proud of the hard work and investments our industry members undertake to ensure almonds can flourish in California for generations. What industry accomplishment are you most proud of? MZ: The mandatory pasteurization program and VASP (now PEC) are two examples of when our industry responsibly sought solutions to adverse issues that affect all parties along the supply chain. Our industry took a proactive, science-based approach to address and protect the needs of regulators and consumers without creating an undue burden on growers and handlers. What advice would you give someone starting off in the almond industry? MZ: I would encourage anyone starting out in our industry to apply for the Almond Leadership Program. The Leadership program provided me insight into the various Almond Board committees and programs and allowed me to acquaint myself with many industry members up and down the state. More importantly, the Leadership program sparked my desire to get involved and give back to our industry. What's your favorite way to eat almonds? MZ: I love the versatility of almonds and the many ways we can enjoy them each day, but my favorite way to eat almonds is still to snack on them by the handful. Micah Zeff Handler, Montpelier Nut Company Member, ABC Board of Directors The mission of the Almond Leadership Program is to engage members of the almond community in creating a culture of lifelong leadership development, training, education and service. Do you want to be a member of the 2020 Almond Leadership Program? Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 12, 2019. Learn more and apply today: Almonds.com/LeadershipProgram