The Fresno State President’s Commission on the Future of Agriculture has arranged a special showing of the documentary “Farmland,” a film by James Moll, on Thursday, Nov. 12, at Maya Cinemas.

The sponsor screening will be at 6:30 p.m., and includes a 5 p.m. reception featuring Fresno State farm products and wine.

After the film, a panel discussion will feature Ryan Veldhuizen, a fourth-generation corn, hog and soybean farmer who is featured in the movie; Debbie Raven, Valley Small Business Development Corporation CEO; Randy Krotz, U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance CEO; Karen Ross, secretary for the California Department of Food and Agriculture; and Ryan Jacobsen, Fresno County Farm Bureau executive director and CEO.

Released in 2014, the movie depicts the life of young farmers and ranchers who grow and raise the nation’s food. The film depicts the high-risk, high-reward lifestyle of running family farming businesses, as well as the subjects’ passion for the ever-evolving industry.

The movie was directed by Moll, winner of Academy, Emmy and Grammy documentary awards.

“Fresno State plays a vital national role in educating the next generation of agricultural leaders and in conducting agricultural research,” said Fresno State President Joseph I. Castro. “We are pleased to host industry leaders, including many alumni, for a viewing of “Farmland” and a discussion about the future of agriculture in the Valley and beyond.”

Individual tickets are $100, and sponsor ticket packages are available at the production level ($1,000, includes four tickets) and premier level ($2,500, includes 10 tickets). Proceeds from the event will establish the Dean’s Fund for Excellence in the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology.

A free student showing will be held at 4 p.m. with tickets available online in advance.

After the film, a question and answer session will be hosted by Fresno State students, Jacobsen and Desi Molyneux, University Outreach Services counselor for the Jordan College.

The presentation follows a recommendation by the President’s Commission on the Future of Agriculture to find new ways to engage alumni and industry partners. The 19-member commission released its report in May 2014.

For tickets or more information, visit Maya Cinemas or call Ag One at 559.278.4266.

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