Los angeLes
county Farm Bureau News
Volume 6 Issue 11
Volume 6 Issue 11 November/December 2006
November/December 2006
CFBF November 2006
Voter Guide
in this issue!!!
CFAITC + Teamwork = A+ in Ag Education
The California Foundation for
Agriculture in the Classroom
(CFAITC) invited educators to its
2006 Conference in Los Angeles
County in October. Nearly 300
educators traveled to the annual
Calendar Highlights conference from urban, suburban
and rural California (and a few
Full Moon Nov 5 from Utah) to seek a better
Election Day Nov 7 understanding of agriculture and
Veterans Day Observed Nov 10 how agriculture produces the food
we eat, the fiber we wear, and
Veterans Day Nov 11
the products that provide us with
Annual LACFB Dinner Nov 11 shelter, beauty, and jobs.
New Moon Nov 20
The Conference offered a variety of tours, speakers, and learning
Thanksgiving Day Nov 23
sessions. The pre-conference tour included visits to the Antelope Valley,
CFBF Annual Meeting Dec 2-6 with the first stop being Lombardi Farms. Like many Antelope Valley
Full Moon Dec 4 farmers, Mr. and Mrs. Lombardi are passionate about educating the
New Moon Dec 20 community about the importance of agriculture. Teachers got a first-hand
look at the Lombardi Farms garden, animals, and fruits and vegetables.
Christmas Day Dec 25
The next stop was the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds, where Grimway Farms
New Year’s Eve Dec 31 General Manager David Rizzo addressed the crowd with a presentation
on carrot production. Then, AV College professor Neil Weisenberger gave
an informative talk about school gardens and their benefits to students.
November/December 2006 Before heading back to the Conference, teachers toured Calandri Farms
Meeting Calendar to learn about onion production.
Exec Bd Mtg Nov 14 6:00 p.m.
The 2006 Conference theme, Agriculture’s Lasting Connections, allowed
Board Meeting Nov 16 6:00 p.m. presenters and Angelenos to share the rich 60-year history Los Angeles
Exec Bd Mtg Dec 14 6:00 p.m. has experienced as one of the most prolific agricultural areas in California
Board Meeting Dec DARK
and the world. While Los Angeles is the birthplace and marketplace
of the entertainment industry, it is also rich in agricultural history
and agricultural production. The 2006 CFAITC conference encouraged
educators to return to their classrooms to share with their students the
In This
importance of agriculture in their everyday lives.
Issue
CFAITC + Teamwork = A+ Ag Ed 1
LACFB Directors, Staff, Resources 2
President’s Message 2
New Admin Assistant joins LACFB 2
Grant Poole’s Farewell Message 3
L.A. County 2005 Crop Report 3
Legislative News 3 Los Angeles County Farm Bureau Non Profit Org
CFBF Voter Guide 3
Member-Get-a-Member 41128 12th Street West, Suite A U.S. Postage PAID
Lancaster, CA 93534
Palmdale, CA 93551-1400
Kurt Floren on High-Risk Pests 4 Recruitment Drive Permit #129
NRCS News Release 5
Member-Get-a-Member Form 5
Insurance News 6 ?
Turkey Dot-to-Dot 6
LACFB News of Yester Year 6
Advertising Arena 7
Membership Application
LACFB Member Business Directory 8 inside!!!
Page 2 November/December 2006 www.lacfb.org • (661) 274-9709 Los Angeles County Farm Bureau News
LOS ANGELES
COUNTY
CALIFORNIA FARM BUREAU
FEDERATION
DISTRICT DIRECTOR
President’s Message
FARM BUREAU L.A. & ORANGE COUNTIES I would like to thank everyone involved in
LACFB for the opportunity to serve as your
Norm Groot county Farm Bureau President. The last
EXECUTIVE BOARD Los Angeles County two years have been full of excitement and
Farm Bureau changes for our membership. Our biggest
President Terry Munz
changes have been the replacement of our
Directors’ Meeting
1st Vice President Ray McCormick office staff. We now have a new Executive
Attendance 2006 Director, Laura Blank, who has successfully
2nd Vice President Dennis Kilcoyne
DIRECTOR JULY AUG SEPT transitioned into the position and made
Secretary/Treasurer Ralph Bozigian many improvements in the operations. At
Casey Alesso * * E the same time, we acquired a new Executive
Director-at-Large Jess Baker
Assistant, Victoria Gerginis, who began her
Gloria Alesso * * P
Past President David Rizzo first week assisting CFBF and CFAITC with
Jess Baker * * P agricultural projects throughout the state.
Bill Barnes * * E We are looking forward to their innovative
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ideas in 2007 and 2008.
Laura E. Blank Ralph Bozigian * * P
(661) 274-9709 John Calandri * * E We are also continuing our work to promote agricultural awareness with
E-mail: exec@lacfb.org AgDayLA (www.agdayla.com), California School Garden Network -CSGN
Steve Godde * * P
(www.csgn.org/), providing college Scholarships, and attending many
John Goit * * P county fairs. We are also still in the process of trying to improve
RESOURCES
Dennis Groven * * P membership to meet our overall annual budget.
Los Angeles County
Scott Harter * * E
Agricultural Commissioner The Los Angeles County Farm Bureau is always looking for individuals
12300 Lower Azusa Road Dennis Kilcoyne * * P to join our Board of Directors. If you are interested, please call our office
Arcadia, CA 91006-5872 at (661) 274-9709 for details. For days and times of LACFB meetings
(626) 575-5451 Ray McCormick * * P
and events, please see our website at www.lacfb.org.
Richard Miner * * P
Antelope Valley
Resource Conservation District Terry Munz * * P
44811 N. Date Avenue, Suite G Roy Pursche * * P
Lancaster, CA 93534
(661) 945-2604 ext. 107 David Rizzo * * P
E-mail: avrcd@carcd.org
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Steve Rodrigues
Sonny Shetler
*
*
*
*
P
E
NEW LACFB VOTING MEMBERS
Farm Service Agency Jeff Siebert * * P
44811 N. Date Avenue, Suite B September 2006 October 2006
Lancaster, CA 93534 Craig Van Dam * * P
(661) 942-9549 Averydale Mutual Water Co. Carmi Flavor and Fragrance
VACANCY
CH food, Inc. HDEC, Inc.
U.S. Department of Agriculture KEY:
P = Present Jing San Food, Inc. Glenn Kuhn
Natural Resources
Conservation Service S = Scheduled Karen Scott Barry Munz
44811 N. Date Avenue, Suite G E = Excused Absence White Fence Farms Robert Wood
Lancaster, CA 93534 X = Unexcused Absence
(661) 945-2604 ext. 3 * = No Meeting/Dark
New Administrative Assistant
joins Farm Bureau team
Meet our new administrative
assistant, Victoria Gerginis.
Vol. 6 Issue 11 Los angeLes county nov./Dec. 2006 She comes to us from Rohnert
Farm Bureau News Park, California (about an hour’s
drive from San Francisco).
FARM BUREAU NEWS (ISSN number pending) is a bimonthly newsletter published Her undergraduate educational
by the LOS ANGELES COUNTY FARM BUREAU, 41228 12th Street West, Suite A, background is in art and
Palmdale, California 93551-1400, (661) 274-9709. Periodicals postage paid at computer graphics. Victoria
Lancaster, California. graduated with a master ’s
degree in education in May
GENERAL INFORMATION AND ADVERTISING INQUIRIES:
2006. This field of study included
Telephone: (661) 274-9709
FAX: (661) 274-0637
a concentrated curriculum in
E-mail: exec@lacfb.org teaching, learning, as well as
an emphasis in educational
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS technology. Victoria just created
Kurt E. Floren - Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner an interactive multimedia DVD to
Grant Poole - UC Davis Extension Farm Advisor educate museum patrons about
the artifacts and culture
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
presented at the Hellenic
Los Angeles County Farm Bureau
41228 12th Street West, Suite A
Heritage Museum in San Jose,
Palmdale, CA 93551-1400 California.
Please Note: The Los Angeles County Farm Bureau does not assume In her spare time, Victoria dances with a Greek folk dance troupe
— the Minoans — based in Marin. She has also assisted with research,
responsibility for statements by advertisers for products advertised in Farm
choreography, art projects, and teaching sessions through this group.
Bureau News, nor does the Farm Bureau assume responsibility for statements Although she now lives in Lancaster, she continues to perform with them
or expressions of opinion other than those expressed in editorials or articles in competitions and performances that take place in Southern California.
showing authorship by an officer, director, or employee of the Los Angeles Victoria is excited to be a part of the Los Angeles County Farm Bureau and
County Farm Bureau or its affiliates. welcomes the opportunity to work in this important position.
Los Angeles County Farm Bureau News www.lacfb.org • (661) 274-9709 November/December 2006 Page 3
Thank you to the Agricultural Highlights of Los Angeles County’s
Community and Industry in the AV 2005 Crop and Livestock Report
by Grant Poole In 2005, a total gross value of $277,844,000 in agricultural crops and
commodities was produced in Los Angeles County, a slight decrease of
1.4 percent from last year’s revised total of $281,917,000. Offsetting
Agriculture and Environmental Issues Advisor, production losses created by a 6.4 percent reduction in nursery production
UC Extension values were significant gains of 22 percent in fruit and nut crops, 37 percent
in field crops, and 297 percent in apiary products, driven in some instances by
I would like to take this time to thank everyone in the agricultural community stronger market values and, elsewhere, by a combination of value increases
in the Antelope Valley for their cooperation and support over the last five seasons and growth in harvested acreage.
that I have been here. I have recently decided to take a new direction in life.
I have accepted a position for a PhD program at Washington State University Nursery products remain the number one crop produced in Los Angeles
with an emphasis in international wheat breeding research. I have thoroughly County, constituting 64.9 percent of the total overall production value this
enjoyed my time here in Lancaster and all of the support from the industry and year. Increasing land values, escalating production costs, and shipping
community has been appreciated. restrictions due to quarantines addressing Sudden Oak Death and Glass-Winged
Sharpshooter present continuing challenges to future ornamental nursery
Since coming to Lancaster in 2002 I have enjoyed doing applied field research product production, but the industry remains strong and resilient.
and getting to know the local growers. In that first season I began to get excited
about a vision for international agricultural development. By God’s grace I had Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner Kurt Floren expresses sincere
the opportunity to travel to Mexico, Thailand, Nicaragua, China, and Columbia and appreciation to each of the producers and individuals who provided information
help with agricultural projects during my time here in Lancaster. The opportunity for this report. Thanks are also extended to the skilled and dedicated staff of
presented itself within the last year at Washington State University, and I look the Los Angeles County Department of Agricultural Commissioner Weights and
forward to serving abroad as an agricultural missionary in the coming years. Measures who continue to do an excellent job in compiling these important
statistics. Visit http://acwm.co.la.ca.us/ for more information.
Thanks again to everyone and I hope the best for all the growers and
Million Dollar List
agricultural community in the Antelope Valley.
Ornamental Trees and Shrubs $ 107,866,000
Legislative News Bedding Plants
Dry Onions
Root Vegetables
30,631,000
28,866,000
18.000,000
Governor’s Action on Key Orchard Fruit 17,455,000
Legislation Affecting
Alfalfa Hay 8,858,000
Family Farms and Ranches
Dairy & Livestock 7,319,000
Governor Schwarzenegger has taken
action on all 1,172 bills sent to him by
Ground Cover 6,731,000
the Legislature. He signed 910 measures Indoor Plants, Flowering 5,283,000
into law and vetoed 262. Updates on Indoor Plants, Foliage 4,331,000
some of the Governors final actions Strawberries 3,303,000
affecting California family farmers and Herbs 2,432,000
ranchers are listed below. For a complete Rangeland 2,400,000
review of how legislators voted on bills Vine Crops 1,504,000
impacting family farmers and ranchers Grain Hay 1,243,000
see the Family Farms Scorecard in the Apiary 1,223,000
October 18 issue of Ag Alert.
Total Gross Value 2005 $277,844,000
AB 1835 (Lieber, D-Mountain View)
Minimum Wage Increase
The minimum wage will increase
by 75 cents on January 1, 2007 and
50 cents on January 1, 2008. By 2008
California’s minimum wage will be $8.00
an hour. The Governor negotiated with
the authors so that it would not include
indexing the wage each year to the rate
of inflation. CFBF opposes this bill. The
Governor signed AB 1835.
Proposition 1A - Transportation Funding Protection.
X
SB 1578 (Lowenthal, D-Long Beach) Proposition 87 - Oil Taxes. Imposes new taxes on oil
Prohibits use of the state sales tax on motor vehicle fuel
X
Dog Tethering pumped in California, discouraging production here,
for purposes other than transportation improvements. increasing dependence on foreign oil and driving up
Wo u l d h ave i m p e d e d p r o d u c t i o n energy prices.
practices by banning the tethering of Proposition 1B - Highway, Road, Air Quality, Port
Bonds. Authorizes bonds to pay for highway, road, NEUTRAL Proposition 88 - Property Tax for Education Funding.
dogs for more than three hours, causing
difficulty for farmers and ranchers who
bridge, public transit and port-security projects.
Proposition 1C - Housing and Emergency Shelter.
Creates new, statewide property tax; farmers and ranch-
ers could face multiple charges per parcel. X
X
use working dogs as a part of their
Provides additional investment in affordable housing, Proposition 89 - Public Funding of Political
operations. In its final days, the bill
X
including farmworker housing. Campaigns. Increases taxes to pay for public funding
was amended to exempt dogs used of campaigns; restricts ability of businesses and organi-
in agriculture and hunting from the Proposition 1D - Public Education Bonds. Authorizes
X
zations to participate in the political process.
bonds for school and higher-education facilities, includ-
restrictions in the bill. CFBF removed its
ing vocational and technical facilities such as agricultural Proposition 90 - Government Acquisition of Property.
opposition and was neutral on the bill,
X
education. Initiative to change eminent-domain laws would under-
which passed out of both houses. The mine agricultural zoning and “right-to-farm” laws, creat-
Proposition 1E - Disaster Preparedness and Flood
X
Governor signed SB 1578. ing more problems than it solves.
Prevention Bonds. Adds new investment to repair vul-
nerable levees that protect farms, homes and critical
SB 1640 (Kuehl, D-Santa Monica) water-supply facilities.
Groundwater Monitoring Farm Bureau SUPPORTS Farm-Friendly Candidates
X
Proposition 83 - Sex Offender Penalties. Increases
Increases the cost of doing business by penalties for violent and habitual sex offenders; prohibits
establishing a statewide requirement for The California Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors endorses the
them from living within 2,000 feet of schools and parks.
local groundwater elevation monitoring. following candidates for election to statewide offices:
Proposition 84 -Water Quality, Flood Control,
If a local entity does not perform Governor...................................................... Arnold Schwarzenegger
Habitat, Parks Bonds. Authorizes bonds for local water-
monitoring, then the Department related projects, wildlife-habitat acquisition, parks and NEUTRAL
Lieutenant Governor ..................................................Tom McClintock
of Water Resources would perform recreation projects.
Attorney General.................................................... Chuck Poochigian
monitoring and establish an assessment
Proposition 85 - Waiting Period, Pregnancy Secretary of State ...................................................Bruce McPherson
district to charge well owners within the Termination. Adds waiting period and notification re- NO POSITION
groundwater basin. After much debate, quirements before a minor could obtain an abortion. U.S. Senator..............................................................Dianne Feinstein
SB 1640 passed out of both houses
Proposition 86 - Cigarette Taxes. Imposes additional
X
and went to the Governor’s desk. CFBF For a list of Farm Bureau endorsed candidates in legislative races, see
taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products; creates the CFBF Web site at www.cfbf.com/farmpac/candidates.cfm
opposes this bill. The Governor vetoed new state spending mandates.
SB 1640.
Page 4 November/December 2006 www.lacfb.org • (661) 274-9709 Los Angeles County Farm Bureau News
Going High-Tech From the desk of
Agricultural Commissioner
Against Kurt E. Floren
Director of Weights and Measures
Los Angeles County Department of
High-Risk Pests Agricultural Commissioner
Weights and Measures
The Los Angeles County Department ACWM’s reference collection of
of Agricultural Commissioner/Weights over 30,000 pinned specimens,
and Measures (ACWM) maintains 8,000 microscope slides, and 4,000
and routinely services over 25,000 samples in alcohol vials has been
insect pest traps throughout the used as a basis for pest identification.
county to detect the introduction We maintain a library comprising
of exotic pests that threaten crops over 4,000 reprints and books, as
and native plants. Additionally, our well as different pest identification
Pest Exclusion program inspects software, as an essential means of
a multitude of plant and produce aiding our entomologist in identifying
shipments entering our distribution specimens.
routes through truck, airfreight, and
parcel delivery operations to quickly To improve our ability to provide
detect introductions of invasive rapid and accurate identification of
Japanese beetle, adult agricultural and other pests, ACWM
weeds, exotic insects, and pathogens
that pose similar threats to agriculture and the environment. Concerned has now installed high resolution
growers, nursery operators, and homeowners provide additional resources digital microscope cameras and
to detect the presence of new or unusual pests. a digital imaging program that
allow us to take multiple images
Expanding globalization of trade and travel, coupled with the remarkable of a pest and, then, combine them
capacity of many agricultural pests to adapt to different environments, into one perfectly focused image
Diaprepes root weevil, pupa
have created a high risk of pest dissemination. An average of seven new with additional three-dimensional
species of exotic pests are introduced and established in California each modeling and measurement features.
year. Recent examples include Diaprepes root weevil, Myoporum thrips, Examples are pictured on this page.
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, and Bougainvillea looper. The newly created images are stored
in our database as a reference
The protection of our local and statewide agricultural industry from the source in the identification of future
devastating effects that would result from the establishment of such pests samples.
within our environment is dependent upon quick responses to control and
Accurate identification of
eradicate them following identification. If identifications are inaccurate or
invertebrates is essential when
unreasonably delayed, a minimal population of an exotic pest can quickly
assessing potential pest risk, providing
expand and become disseminated,
timely and important information on
through natural migration or
their biology, and developing survey
mechanical means (plant and
strategies and control measures. The
produce distribution by individual citizens
use of latest available technology
or commercial enterprises), creating
to achieve accuracy and speed Diaprepes root weevil, adult
an established population that may
in such identifications
become so widespread that eradication
will aid immeasurably in our continuing efforts to
is impossible. Re s u l t i n g c r o p
sustain our valuable local and statewide agricultural enterprises. In a
losses and the inability to market
cooperative dual effort to ensure accuracy, all pest identifications are
affected agricultural products, due
confirmed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture Pest
to quarantines established to protect
Diagnostics Laboratory.
domestic and foreign trading partners,
can very quickly amount to tens or
Neriid fly, adult hundreds of millions of dollars of
impact to our agricultural industry.
From five to six thousand
samples of different insects,
snails, slugs, mites, ticks, spiders,
scorpions and other invertebrate
pests from different parts
of the world and other states
are submitted each year to the
ACWM entomology laboratory
for identification. These include
pests submitted by nurseries,
farmers, pest control companies,
government agencies, and the
public. This tremendous volume
and diversity of pest groups, from
widely varying locations of origin,
makes accurate determination Mediterranean fruit fly, adult
extremely challenging.
Desk setup for digital macro photography
For the latest updates on Los Angeles County Farm Bureau Activities and Meetings, visit www.lacfb.org.
Los Angeles County Farm Bureau News www.lacfb.org • (661) 274-9709 November/December 2006 Page 5
Member-Get-a-Member
California NRCS
Announces Sign Ups
for Conservation Cost
Recruitment Drive
Share Programs Encourage your family and friends to join the Los Angeles County Farm
DAVIS, CA, Oct. 13, 2006 – Conservation Bureau. LACFB Members are eligible for the following member services:
cost share applications are being accepted
now through Dec. 1, 2006 at USDA Natural • Free Value Guide • Residential Mortgage Discounts
• Insurance Programs • Labor/Employment Services
Resources Conservation Service offices
throughout California. Two cost share
programs are available to assist those
interested in making voluntary improvements • Vehicle Discounts • Prescription and Eye Care Discounts
to natural resources.
• Industrial Supply Discounts • Travel and Entertainment Discounts
The Environmental Quality Incentives
Program (EQIP) and The Wildlife Habitat • Other benefits
Incentives Program (WHIP) are popular
conservation programs offering technical and
financial assistance to those who wish to make See the Membership form below
environmental enhancements on land they
own or manage.
“These programs offer financial assistance
to complement conservation planning and
technical assistance,” says NRCS State
Conservationist Ed Burton. “NRCS and
LOS ANGELES COUNTY FARM BUREAU
its partners use these programs to help APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP
landowners plan and implement stewardship
to achieve long-term improvements in Membership Number: (New Members To Be Assigned) County Farm Bureau: Date of Birth Total Amount Enclosed: $
productivity and sustainability of the land Los Angeles County (Month – Day)
while complying with or getting ahead of Applicant’s Name: Spouse’s Name
regulations.”
Mailing or Business Address: City ST Zip
The Environmental Quality Incentives
Program (EQIP) is a broad-ranging program
that typically pays 50 percent of the cost related Home Address: City ST Zip
to improvements in soil, water, air, range
and wildlife habitat on farms and ranches. Post Office Box City ST Zip
It can share the cost of water conservation,
integrated pest management, nutrient Membership Types & Dues Amount: Send Mail To: Phone Numbers:
management, air quality improvements,
Individual (Sustaining) $65.00 Mailing/Business Business Phone ( ) -
rangeland management, manure management
and more. Assistance can be in the form of Voting $90.00 Business Fax ( ) -
structures and conservation “hardware” such Business $150.00 Home Home Phone ( ) -
as irrigation or manure management facilities
as well as incentives payments for proper *(Voluntary Donation) PO Box Work Phone ( ) -
management to achieve environmental *Protect Farm Family Fund $25.00 Email ____________________________________
benefits. In 2006 California granted 1700
List your major commodities:
EQIP contracts for almost $48 million.
The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program Occupation: Ag-Related Business
(WHIP) is open to agricultural and non- (Please Specify):
agricultural landowners and managers. Non-Ag Business (Please Specify):
Eligible lands include private, Tribal, and Issues of Interest: Ag Education Young Farmers & Ranchers Other:
limited state and local government lands. Taxes Environment Land Use __________________
WHIP offers 5-10 year contracts for 75% cost Water Labor Commodity Issues
share on environmental improvements on Energy/Public Utilities State Legislation __________________
land that supplies habitat for upland wildlife,
wetland wildlife, threatened and endangered
species, fish, and other types of wildlife. An
emphasis is given to habitat for declining or _________________________________ ________________________________
important native species and for improving Signature Date
wildlife habitat degraded by invasive species.
In 2006 California allocated $865,000 in Contributions or gifts to Farm Bureau are not tax deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Farm Bureau dues may be deductible
WHIP funds. by members as an ordinary and necessary business expense. If accepted by the county Farm Bureau above, your annual membership will begin on the first
day of the month that your application was signed.
Applications are ranked based on scores Return this application to:
Los Angeles County Farm Bureau, 41228 12th Street West, Suite A, Palmdale, CA 93551-1400
reflecting their environmental benefit to
Phone Number (661) 274-9709 Fax (661) 274-0637. Checkout our website: www.lacfb.com.
national, statewide and locally identified
resource priorities as well as a cost efficiency
calculation. A more detailed explanation
of local goals and ranking process can be Check (Please make checks payable to Los Angeles County Farm Bureau) Check #___________________________
found at www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/.
All eligibility forms must be submitted with Visa / ________________________
the application to be considered complete. Card Number Expiration Date Signature
Necessary forms include an application,
appendix, power of attorney if applicable, MC / ________________________
HEL-wetland certification and others listed Card Number Expiration Date Signature
on the site referenced above. Applicants
are encouraged to begin the process early ____________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________
to avoid unforeseen delays and assure their Name (As It Appears On the Card) Card Holders Address on Card
application can be considered for funding
this year. _______________________________ ______ (______)_______-_________
City State Phone Number
Contact NRCS District Conservationist
Jae Lee at (661) 945-2604 ext. 3 for more
information.
Page 6 November/December 2006 www.lacfb.org • (661) 274-9709 Los Angeles County Farm Bureau News
By John Valentine
Director, Sponsor Relations
Nationwide Insurance Turkey Dot to Dot
Valentj4@nationwide.com
Preventing Protect Your Car
Chemical Spray Drift As Well As Your Wallet
Chemical spray drift can damage Sadly, some cars are stolen more often
neighboring crops, yards, gardens, and/ than others and you could face higher
or the landscaping of rural residents. insurance premiums if you drive a car
Fortunately, crop damage or yard damage that’s considered an at-risk model. So
before you buy or lease your next car,
caused by drifting spray is preventable.
ask your agent which cars top the most-
Please consider the following tips when
stolen list.
spraying crops this season:
It’s not always the make and model of
• Check wind speed and direction. the car. The options you choose may
Wind causes spray droplets to move make your car more enticing to criminals.
off target. Thieves look for expensive add-on
equipment like hubcaps, hood ornaments
• Make certain wind conditions are and sophisticated sound systems.
acceptable for spraying.
Older cars aren’t necessarily immune,
either. Thieves target vehicles that can
• Always read the product label and be quickly resold or stripped for parts,
use all drift-prevention measures because parts can be worth two to three
listed. times the value of the whole car.
• Use high-volume, low-pressure To be extra safe, park your car in a well-
nozzles. Larger droplets drift less lit place and protect it by making sure
than smaller droplets. Make sure windows and doors are completely closed
nozzles are designed for the product and locked—even in your own driveway.
being applied. Always pocket your keys, too, and if you
must use valet service, lock your glove
box and trunk, and leave an ignition-only
• Keep your spray boon positioned as key. For more protection, purchase theft-
low as possible. deterrent devices like a steering wheel
club, immobilizer, or accessory locks and
Remember that you are responsible for other security devices. If you use such a
what you spray, and waiting to spray device, check with your insurance agent
can cost less than spraying the wrong about premium discounts you may be Find more fun agriculture games and
things. eligible for. information at www.FarmBureauKids.com
LACFB NEWS OF
YESTER YEAR
Top 20 Agencies
NEARLY 50 YEARS AGO
In L.A. County An advertisement in the 1957 LACFB newsletter offers
a Delicious Chuck Wagon Dinner at a farmer’s meet for
Right Source Insurance Agency one dollar and seventy five cents.
DP Insurance Agency Inc
Prolinks Insurance Services Another advertisement offers agricultural land in
The Corinth Company Riverside County for $600 per acre. Also advertised
Ping Hua Insurance Svcs Inc was “unlimited gravity canal water at $6.25 per acre,
Ben Miller Insurance Agency per year.”
James P Saurer Insurance Agcy
Secure Insurance Services Inc 28 YEARS AGO
Steve Brooks Insurance Service Got milk? Los Angeles County’s milk production is down
Robert Edward Griffin but the demand for milk is up.
E James Anderson Ins Agcy Inc
Jose R. Armenta Agency
Nahai Insurance Services Inc
12 YEARS AGO
Peachland Farms comes to the Antelope Valley.
R B P Insurance Services Inc
Best Deal Insurance
Sterling Marlin, Farm Bureau member in Tennessee’s
Calabasas-tri County Insurance
Maury County (near Columbia, Tenn.) becomes the 1994
Ana Insurance Brokerage Inc
Daytona 500 champion.
Isu Stephen B Marvin Ins Agcy
Nis Insurance Agency
Isu Uni Insurance Services
Los Angeles County Farm Bureau News www.lacfb.org • (661) 274-9709 November/December 2006 Page 7
Advertising Arena
Apparel & Accessories Financial Services Marketing / Media
Insurance Services Mortgage Services
Automotive Have you spoken to your broker lately?
If you aren’t really happy with your broker or just can’t remember
their name, give me a call and let’s talk about the level of service you need.
Colleen King Insurance Agency
Life • Health • Annuities • Long Term Care
Working with Individuals and Businesses to make your choices easier.
Colleen King
(818) 326-3777
www.CKingInsurance.com
Colleen@CKingInsurance.com
CA Lic. 0E01184
Authorized Nationwide Health Plan Agent
Employment Opportunities Livestock Tools
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the county of Los angeles is seeking individuals
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schedule daily work for crew, work under extreme Office (818) 949-4424 Cat Skid Steers
weather conditions, operate various manual and
FAX (818) 949-4414 Bobtail Dump
power equipment. supervise equipment and hand-
work vendors. salary starts at $2,415/month. Kathleen Minor Telephone: (661) 728-0150 Pager (888) 520-1972
Call 626-575-5464 for job application. Amanda Whipple FAX: (661) 728-0150 www.CharliesMobileTools.com
Posted 6/06/2006
Lancaster, CA k_minor9@yahoo.com
Entertainment Industry Tractor
CASTING CALL
J and J Farms
A major reality production company is currently
searching for young, attractive, energetic male
farmers for an exciting new reality TV show.
If you live or work on a farm,
call or e-mail our casting department
to schedule an audition. Show Pigs & Butcher Pigs
FARMBOYCASTING@YAHOO.COM
(310) 806-4859 (661) 943-4558
Call (661) 274-9709 to advertise on this page!!!
Page 8 November/December 2006 www.lacfb.org • (661) 274-9709 Los Angeles County Farm Bureau News
Farmers Wholesale Meats PUTTING “REAL” FOOD ...
... BACK ON THE TABLE
“State Qualified For Cleanliness” OPENING NOVEMBER 2006
CUSTOM SLAUGHTERING
SMOKING AND CURING
•CUSTOM CUTTING AND WRAPPING
•PORK •LAMB •BEEF •CUSTOM SAUSAGES
•COMPLETE GAME PROCESSING •LOCKER RENTALS
(661) 832-5941
3018 Taft Highway, Bakersfield
MONDAY - FRIDAY 8 to 5 SATURDAY 8 to NOON
Ron Howell, L.M.I., Owner Charlie Herrera, Curing
BUSINESS
MEMBER
DIRECTORY
AUTO FARMS / RANCHES FLORIST SUPPLY COMPANIES
AV Battery Specialists Alesso Farms Palmdale-Lancaster Florist Distribution Supply Tech
1134 W. Avenue I P.O. Box 398 44761 10th Street West 4820 Lanier Road
Lancaster, CA 93534 Rosamond, CA 93560 Lancaster, CA 93534 Chino, CA 91710
(800) 475-5431 (661) 256-0933 (661) 723-7673 (909) 627-3638
The Tire Store Bench Ranch GROCERY SUPPLIERS
Michael Bench WATER AGENCIES
43923 N. Sierra Hwy
Lancaster, CA 93534 7200 West Ave H Antelope Valley Produce
Lancaster, CA 93536 Antelope Valley East Kern
(661) 945-1833 206 West Nugent Water Agency
(661) 949-9999 Lancaster, CA 93534 6500 West Avenue N
(661) 942-5939 Palmdale, CA 93551
Billet Barn & Corral
BREEDERS 48430 85th Street West (661) 943-3201
Lancaster, CA 93536 INSURANCE SERVICES E-mail: avekwa@aol.com
J and J Farms (661) 945-1249 General Meetings - 2nd and 4th
Post Office Box 3427 E-mail: jdb@billetsteel.com Robert E. Griffin Insurance Tuesdays of the month
Lancaster, CA 93586 44741 10th Street West
(661) 943-4558 Forrest Godde Lancaster, CA 93534-2318 Littlerock Creek Irrigation
E-mail: lmbquilts@verizon.net P.O. Box 1152 (661) 948-0712 District
Lancaster, CA 93584 E-mail: bob@regriffinins.com 35141 N. 87th Street East
(661) 940-3190 Littlerock, CA 93543
CONVENTION CENTER MACHINERY (661) 944-2015
Bennie E. Moore E-mail: lcid@skylinx.us
Calamigos Ranch 48141 3 Points Road South Kern Machinery, Inc. General Meeting - 4th Wednesday
327 S. Latigo Canyon Lake Hughes, CA 93532 520 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue of the month
Malibu, CA 90265 (661) 724-1014 Bakersfield, CA 93307
(800) 821-2097 (661) 833-9900 Palmdale Water District
(818) 879-8130 FAX 1-800-244-6424 2029 East Avenue Q
www.calimigos.com FEED & TACK (661) 833-9911 Palmdale CA 93550
E-mail: lsitzman@southkern.com (661) 947-4111
Hemme Hay & Feed www.southkern.com E-mail: front_office@palmdalewater.org
DODGE DEALERS 43719 N. Sierra Hwy www.palmdalewater.org/
Lancaster, CA 93534 OTHER ORGANIZATIONS General Meetings - 2nd and 4th
H.W. Hunter, Inc. (661) 942-7880 Wednesdays of the month
1130 Auto Mall Drive 50th District Agricultural
Lancaster, CA 93534 Association Quartz Hill Water District
(661) 948-8411 2511 West Avenue H 42141 50th Street West
FINANCIAL
Lancaster, CA 93536 Quartz Hill, CA 93536
(661) 948-6060 (661) 943-3170
Gordon Elder, CFP ®
E-mail: dmeraz@qhwd.org
ENGINEERING Certified Financial Planner Professional
Antelope Valley Air Quality www.qhwd.org/
44345 Lowtree Ave
Management District General Meeting -2nd Thursday
HDEC, Inc Lancaster, CA 93534
43301 Division Street, #206 of the month
44111 Division St. (661) 940-7977
Lancaster, CA 93535 www.gordonelder.com Lancaster, CA 93535
(661) 951-0554 (661) 723-8070 WELLS & PUMPS
www.hdec.net Coldwell Banker Commercial Hartwig
Robert Greer White Fence Farms Rottman Drilling
Barry Munz P.O. Box 2752 41901 20th Street West 46471 N. Division Street
129 West Pondera St. Lancaster, CA 93539 Palmdale, CA 93551 Lancaster, CA 93535
Lancaster, CA 93534 (661) 948-8424 (661) 943-3316 (661) 942-6125
(661) 948-0805 E-mail: ahartwigcompany@coldwellbanker.com E-mail: wff@gnet.com E-mail: rdrilling@msn.com
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