Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/418083
www.goodfruit.com GOOD FRUIT GROWER DECEMBER 2014 47 who now has an employee of his own and tries to treat him the best way possible. Representing Hispanics Despite his limited free time, Ramirez serves on sev- eral community and industry boards. In 2004, Jim Hazen, then executive director of the Hort Association, asked him if he would take a position on the association's board. "It was a pretty big thing," Ramirez said. The only other Hispanic person to serve on the board was Mario Martinez, horticulturist for Washington Fruit and Produce Company. "I feel that if you want things to happen, you can't complain," he said. "You need to get involved, and you can understand a little better how things happen." Five years ago, West Mathison, then Hort President, asked Ramirez if he would take the second-vice-presi- dent position, with the idea that he would move through the ranks to president. He would have succeeded Steve Zediker as president at the 2014 annual meeting, had the association not become part of the new Washington Tree Fruit Association. Elections for the board of the new association are being held this month. Jeff Cleveringa, chair of the nominating committee, asked Ramirez if he would be nominated for a position. "I said, 'If you think I can help, and if I can represent not only the Hispanics but the small growers, I'm will- ing to give it a try,'" Ramirez said. "I think they want Hispanics to come out of their shell and become more involved. By having me involved in the industry, they have a face that other people can relate to. "Sometimes you feel a bit nervous that your opinion doesn't matter," he added. "But I fi nd the little you can say goes a long way. It has an impact. People take it seriously." Though it's not the kind of fame or fortune he dreamed of back in Mexico 30 years ago, Ramirez said he feels fortunate to be part of the tree fruit industry. "If you have a dream and you want to go and work for it, it's something you can accomplish." • PHOTO BY TJ MULLINAX OUR CLASSROOM COVERS FIVE STATES Northwest Farm Credit Services employees live and breathe agriculture. We're immersed in the industries we serve and work hard to stay on top of changes. Fact is, though, ag is so dynamic, the education never stops. We closely monitor the latest industry trends and are eager to share our insights, through customer seminars, workshops, and a variety of online tools. Visit northwestfcs.com/resources to learn more. Northwest FCS Vice President Michael Stolp presenting at a customer seminar This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.