This study investigates consumer behaviors, perceptions, and motivations regarding farmers’ market patronage in California’s Central Valley, with a focus on both attendees and non-attendees. While previous research has largely explored why consumers choose to shop at farmers’ markets—highlighting preferences for fresh, local produce, and community engagement—fewer studies have examined the reasons behind non-attendance. This research addresses that gap by comparing the perspectives of farmers’ market patrons and conventional grocery store shoppers. Utilizing a convenience sample of 100 participants from the Turlock Certified Farmers’ Market and four grocery stores in Turlock, California, the study uses surveys to assess demographic data, shopping habits, perceived barriers, and motivations. Key objectives include identifying factors that influence consumer decisions to attend or avoid farmers’ markets and analyzing how variables such as convenience, affordability, awareness, and social relevance affect market participation. Findings will contribute to a broader understanding of local food system engagement and offer actionable insights for market organizers seeking to attract a more diverse and consistent customer base. Given the Central Valley’s importance as an agricultural hub, understanding local consumer patterns is crucial for promoting sustainable food systems. This research aims to inform strategies that increase accessibility and inclusivity at farmers’ markets by addressing barriers identified by underrepresented consumer groups. The study also explores how food shopping reflects larger issues such as economic access, community connection, and environmental values. Ultimately, the goal is to support farmers’ markets in becoming viable, appealing alternatives to conventional food retail for a wider range of consumers.

This study seeks to investigate how Latino youth ethnographically experience family tensions while navigating early psychosis and the implications impacting youth because of their family. In clinical settings, early intervention and mental health services are increasingly emphasized, however Latino youth remain underrepresented in treatment due to cultural and healthcare gaps. Methods: Drawing from qualitative data gathered by the Dr. Neely Myers’ Mental Health Innovation Lab from 2014-2017 and following the interlocutors up to 16 weeks, this study re-explores the archival data and investigates deeper and focused meanings on how youth interpret their diagnosis and treatment within the context of family support and tensions. Results: Out of (N=47) total people and specifically examining (n=21, 45%) interviews, 21 youth who self-identify as Latino, the highest identified thematic code most discussed within the interviews of their clinical experience is ‘Family Support/Lack of Support’ (n=20/21, 95%). Within this top identified thematic code, the highest code of ‘Family Tensions’ (n=19/21, 91%), co-occurs (n=20/21, 95%). What we found was: 1) Knowing that someone cared; 2) Being Closed off to family; 3) Family tensions encompasses misunderstandings. Conclusion: Identifying the intersection of ‘Family Support/Lack of Support’ with ‘Family Tensions’ for Latino youth will contribute to recognizing the central role that family plays in internal conflict and social barriers to care by acknowledging the importance of 'Family Support/Lack of Support’ as explored in this research and supported by the literature.

Achieving principled historical analysis while avoiding researcher bias is a pertinent issue. In this project, we apply natural language processing techniques such as topic modeling and large language model interpretations to examine the presence and context of firearms-related language in Christian publications spanning the past two centuries. By leveraging these tools, we approach the subject with greater objectivity, allowing patterns and themes to emerge from the data itself rather than being shaped by prior assumptions. This poster focuses on the methodological framework behind such an approach, illustrating how data-driven techniques can be used to explore sensitive historical questions.