Hermiston, OR ( June 2, 2008) – River Point Farms, America’s largest onion producer, announces the company has awarded its Agribusiness Program Scholarship for Columbia Basin College to Ashley Eagy of Othello, WA.

The scholarship includes a full-year of tuition and books at the two-year community college, as well as a 10-week paid summer internship at River Point Farms.  Credits earned at this college are transferable to a four-year university. 

“River Point Farms has decided to participate in this scholarship program at Columbia Basin College to help entice students to enter an agri-business school and ultimately choose a career in agriculture.  We are reaching out to the younger generation to help generate interest in this field,” said Jamie Cimmiyotti, vice president of human resources at River Point Farms.  “Many people do not understand how developed the business structure is within the agricultural industry and how rich the career opportunities are.  We hope that by supporting this program we can help make a difference in providing opportunities for tomorrow’s leaders within our industry.” 

River Point Farms chose Eagy for this scholarship out of 20 candidates based on her grades, financial need, and involvement in agriculture-related clubs.  Eagy has participated in 4-H for nine years and is president of the local chapter of Future Farmers of America.

About River Point Farms:

River Point Farms is America’s largest grower, packer, shipper and processor of onions; including yellow, white, red, sweet and organic onions.  Incorporated in April 2007, after merging the long standing companies of American Onion and Rivergate Farms, River Point Farms is headquartered in Hermiston, Oregon.  River Point Farms is fully integrated, offering a total solution for a diversified customer base.  The company’s state-of-the-art growing and storage techniques ensure a year-round supply of whole, peeled and sliced onions to various foodservice, industrial ingredient and retail customers. River Point Farms controls the process from seed to shelf, providing the most consistent, reliable onion supply in the country.  The company’s unique approach to crop planning takes into account the needs of the customer when designing production, enabling an unparalleled service offering.

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