California YF&Rs advance at AFBF annual convention

California Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers stood out in competitive events at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention, held Jan. 24-29 in San Antonio, Texas.

Representing the Golden State in the YF&R Excellence in Agriculture Award, Jynel Gularte of Monterey County earned a fourth-place finish in the national competition. The award recognizes YF&Rs who do not derive most of their income from an agricultural operation but who contribute and grow through their involvement in agriculture and leadership. Gularte, from Gonzales, is controller and compliance officer for her family’s vegetable farm. She serves as chairwoman of the Central Coast YF&R.

In the YF&R Open Discussion Meet, Sacramento County’s Madeline Schenken of Elk Grove advanced to the Sweet 16 round. The contest simulates a committee meeting and evaluates participants on their ability to exchange ideas and information. Schenken works as communications director for Cal-AgJobs and program coordinator for the California Association of Winegrape Growers. She serves as co-chair of community service and public relations for the Sacramento County YF&R.

Humboldt dairy farmer Ronald Vevoda represented California as winner of the state’s YF&R Achievement Award. The award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who have excelled in farming or ranching operations and exhibited superior leadership. 

California YF&R Committee Chair Daniel Jones of Solano County was elected vice chair of the AFBF YF&R Committee. He will serve a one-year term on the AFBF board of directors.