I've lived in the Central Valley all my life and grew up in Livingston, where I learned the value of hard work on the farm. As a kid I spent my early years helping my dad in the fields, learning the ropes of farming. I worked with my dad for a few more years before deciding to pursue my own path. I started farming, just like my dad did for so many years, and spent over 20 years as a self-employed farmer. 

But after awhile I wanted something more,...