The Pasco Chamber of Commerce and the Port of Pasco will host the 2025 Mid-Columbia Ag Hall of Fame Gala on Thursday, Jan.16, at the Pasco Red Lion. Since 2000, the program has been honoring individuals and couples for their contributions to agriculture and agribusiness, and a portion of the money raised supports scholarships for youth studying agricultural sciences.
Five new inductees will be honored this year: Farm owner Fred Olberding will receive the Pioneer Award for a lifetime of service to agriculture and his community. Teacher Denise Senor will be honored with the Advisor Award for her tireless work in support of ag education. James Alford, owner of JCag and president of the Franklin County Farm Bureau, will receive the Rising Star Award. The Stewardship Award, given for years of agricultural leadership, will honor Bill Middleton, whose farm is well-known for the annual Middleton Fall Festival. And a special honor called the Visionary Award will be given to fifth-generation farmer Dr. Alan Schreiber, who opened the Tri-Cities Food Co-op in Richland.
The social hour begins at 5 p.m., followed by a full-course dinner featuring local produce and wines. The cost is $75 per person or $525 for a table of eight. For tickets and information, visit pascochmber.org or call (509) 547-9755.