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Election results are mixed but there's optimism overall
Invasive Golden Mussels found in SJ County concerns water users
By Vicky Boyd
FOR THE FIRST TIME in North America, invasive golden mussels were recently confirmed in seven San Joaquin County Delta locations, prompting concerns from agricultural water users about their potential to clog intakes.
By Vicky Boyd
WHILE ELECTION RESULTS for a few statewide ballot measures and local candidates didn’t turn out as hoped, San Joaquin Farm Bureau leaders said they’re optimistic overall.
“Obviously, at the top, anybody that’s in business or anybody who has equity in a home or
savings in a bank has to be happy that Trump got in and Harris didn’t,” said SJFB President Les Strojan, who runs cattle and grows forage with his sons near Farmington. “We’re encouraged by the overall trend, but we still have some issues we have to deal with as far as farmers be -
See Election, page 5
“That’s not good, not good at all,” said David Strecker, who farms on Roberts Island in the Delta. “It’s my understanding that they get into pipes like intakes and take hold, so they’re very concerning.”
California Department of Water Resources employees found golden mussels near the Port of Stockton during routine operations in October. Further surveys turned up the invasive species in six other Delta locations.
Strecker already has had to hire a diver to clean out invasive weeds that clog his river irrigation intakes at least once a season, and he fears he may have to also do so for the invasive mussel if it becomes established.
Strecker pointed to the invasive Asian clam first found in the Delta in 1986 as reasons for his worries. It likely came into the state as freeswimming larvae in ship ballast water. Colonies of more
than 2,000 half-inch claims per square yard can form on submerged surfaces. By the time wildlife experts and water quality managers realized the Asian clam was a
See Mussels, page 7
2 A fork
8 Labor costs continue to climb according to 2025
A candidate sign that used to be displayed prominently along a major road sits in a Stockton-area farmer’s machine shop after the election.
Vicky Boyd
SJFB 2024-25 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Acampo
Joe Salazar, Chair
Joe Petersen
Charlie Starr
Calla Nile Garden
Tim Weststeyn, Chair
Bruce Oosterkamp
David Phippen
Bryan Van Groningen
Collegeville
Chester Murphy, Chair
Kent Norman
Neil Norman Escalon
Caleb Gervase, Chair
Katie Veenstra
Paul Voortman
Lafayette
Richard Rodriguez, Chair
Stanton Lange
Daniel Meza
Alfred Nicolini
Linden
Nick Ferrari, Chair
Donald Drake
Jim Ferrari
Joe Ferrari
Steven Galvin
Roberts Union
Nick Mussi, Chair
Patrick Drury
David Strecker
Tracy
Joe Bacchetti, Chair
Phil Martin
Pete Reece, Jr.
Victor
Nick Bokides, Chair
Dave Simpson
Kelton Fleming
Officers
Les Strojan, President
James Chinchiolo, First Vice President
Herman Doornenbal Jr., Second Vice President
Directors at Large
Josh Barton
Phil Brumley
Jean Cabral, Emeritas
Jim Connolly
Karen Cultrera
Dennis Drake
Brad Goehring
Jack Hamm
Bob Hesseltine
Jim Larkin
Joe Luis
Steve Moore
Jerry Robinson
Jake Samuel
Paul Sanguinetti
Ken Vogel
Darrell Voortman
Andrew Watkins
Kenny Watkins
Advisory
Sara Bautista, Farm Service Agency
Sonya Miller, NRCS/USDA
Krista McCoon, SJ CWA
Kamal Bagri, Ag Commissioner
Sheriff Pat Withrow, Sheriff’s Dept
Brent Holtz, UC Cooperative Extension
Staff
Andrew Genasci, Executive Director
Jessica Coit, Program Director
By Les Strojan, SJFB President
A fork in the road from the PRESIDENT’S DESK
FOR SOME REASON we were in Hawthorne, Nevada coming back home. I had discussed the anticipated trip with our friend Eliot Appleton, a well-known connoisseur of very rural byways. He excitedly suggested we take “Lucky Boy Pass” on our way back out of Hawthorne, “It’s beautiful country”. His instructions were to go over the pass, stay on the road until you come to a fork in the road and take the fork that would take us to Bridgeport where we wanted to go.
After going over the pass and winding through the mountain we came out on a high plain, all sage brush. After about 20 miles of rough dirt road that wasn’t even on our map we came to the fork in the road. The road split evenly to the left and right but of course there were no signs and the choice was not obvious as to what fork to take. We were lucky and took the right fork, as a mistake would have taken us to Smith, Nevada adding an hour and a half to the trip. Lucky Boy
from the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
By Andrew Genasci
Pass Road was proof beauty was in the eye of the beholder.
Our country just came to a fork in the road with monumental consequences that will take some time to manifest itself. I hope nobody believes any candidate will do everything they said they would do. Many campaign promises are not tempered with reality but the direction we are heading couldn’t have provided a
Many things to be thankful about
AND JUST LIKE THAT, the year is almost over! I do not know about you, but it feels like these last few months have flown by.
I once heard someone say that the days are long, but the years are short, and it sure feels that way! With the year winding down, I thought it would be good to look back on a few of the things that we are thankful for here at the San Joaquin Farm Bureau.
Like most years, we started by looking for clouds. Rain clouds, to be more specific. After a wet 2023, we were able to enjoy another good water year in 2024! While only “average” in the books, we were able to top off our storage above ground and increase our groundwater recharge activities. All without the damage
of flooding that we see in heavy rainfall years. As I write this, it is beginning to rain outside, so hopefully we will have another wet year in 2025!
We were also able to help local growers with their applications for the $5
President, Les Strojan First Vice President, James Chinchiolo
million in water efficiency grants that were secured by the Stockton East Water District, North San Joaquin Water Conservation District and the South
Vice President, Herman Doornenbal Jr.
See Strojan, page 4
See Genasci, page 11
Planning for the future through succession planning
By Craig W. Anderson
THE RECENT ELECTION RESULTS could affect agriculture in many ways with one of the most important being the impact on future estate succession planning. With the USDA noting that about onethird of farms nationwide are operated by someone over age 65 whose land will either shift to another operator or go into non-agriculture uses as they retire or exit farming, advice about how to handle such change will continue to be vital.
Despite the U.S. population’s growth, farm acreage is lost every year to development. Not helping the situation is that family farms often do not know how to transfer the operation to the next generation, family or non-family.
“We, as farmers and landowners, need to be prepared for various, different situations,” said SJFB President Les Strojan. “The more information people can get about succession planning, the better.”
Presenting the various items of importance to an audience of SJFB members
“I saw their presentation at the ag show and was impressed by their presentation, Family farms often do not know how to transfer the operation to the next generation.
recently were three specialists and partners in estate and succession planning from Farm Legacy Advisors: Edward Rusnak, Martin S. Johnson and Mark L. Sherin.
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Vicky Boyd
Continued from previous page
“said Strojan. “Capital gains, various taxes and annual gifts were among their topics. They also dealt with the tools we need to know to implement the programs. They presented an overview of estate planning; it wasn’t a long presentation but it was filled with information.”
Impressed, Strojan decided to “try them” because the information was “important to farmers and other ag-oriented businesses.”
Rusnak said, “Our goal is to help successful business owners, real estate owners, executive professionals and individuals achieve their financial goals and lifetime dreams. So often in life it takes a leap of faith to make meaningful progress toward the result we desire.”
He added, “We do this by creating comprehensive financial plans and implementing solutions that meet their unique family needs and objectives.”
“The presenters used a fictional family to demonstrate how the process works
and what mistakes could happen and what those results would be,” said SJFB Executive Director Andrew Genasci. “The three experts presenting the information had very deep knowledge of the entire program and they answered very well various questions from a well-informed member audience.” Genasci said the presentation covered areas introduced by the experts along with their answering the sometimes-challenging questions.
Johnson can put his estate and succession planning specialist knowledge to work by “reviewing and coordinating work clients may have already done with another counselor where I can often identify missed opportunities or gaps.”
Sherin remarked that he and his partners work with families “on planning how to reduce the transfer costs on their estates, building a succession plan to transfer the management of their farm to the next generation and designing an ultimate exit plan that is fair to all parties.”
And the introduction of their Six Step Process so clients “can see the progress
they are making…[which] helps remove some of the mystery that surrounds succession and exit planning, helping them to think of this project in smaller, more manageable pieces.”
The exit-planning process has, he said, six steps: set exit goals; financial readiness; identify the type of exiting owner you most resemble; learn and choose your exit option; understand the value of the option you choose and execute your exit strategy plan to reach your goals and protect your wealth.
Sherin also said, “It’s been said that everyone should have two exit plans. One for where they control each of the circumstances, including their health, timing, business cycles, needs of the next generation and another plan for when the circumstances are the boss.”
This aspect of reviewing already established estate plans to adjust or modify them appealed to SJFB Second Vice President Herman Doornenbal, who said, “I have everything in place, but it’s somewhat outdated now. My wife and I discussed our plan recently and we’ll be updating it.”
Doornenbal also commented that, “It’s very important as a nest egg to our kids
Strojan
Continued from page 2
wider contrast to the current philosophies. With the results, we can now have hope for security, better economic conditions by making government smaller and a return to the axioms we learned as kids. Remember we needed to work to eat, or we needed to tell the truth, or we need to be respectful of the rights of others. It’s easier to muster the courage to fight believing if we do our part the chances of overall improvement are good. Let’s get together to improve the terrible farm economics that we are suffering through so all segments of agriculture can get a reasonable return for what we provide.
Agriculture could not have been more united and supportive of the fight against Measure J in Sonoma County.
and keeping it updated makes the future of our estate clear. It’s a complicated, timeconsuming process but that’s how these plans are. They can be changed, tweaked here and there to make sure everything’s as it should be.”
“These estate planning seminars are good and informative,” he added alluding to the need of family farms that often do not know how to transfer the operation to the next generation or non-family.
The three Farm Legacy Advisors agreed that complicating matters further is the “ever-changing tax code and the challenges that brings. We know that this impacts most, if not all of you, too.”
How the policies resulting from the results of the recent national election and where the protection of a farmer’s land legacy is concerned, depends, Genasci said, “Where we’ll be moving over the next four to five years with the new administration.”
The estate and succession planning business has been advising farmers and agriculture-oriented businesses over the span of decades and the San Joaquin Farm Bureau anticipates such advice continuing for decades to come.
Your county Farm Bureau made a large financial contribution, manned a booth at the Farm to Finish event at the Nascar race there and spread the word verbally. We continually spread the word through our weekly notes and monthly newspaper. After the defeat in the election by a margin of 85 to 15, the advocates said they weren’t giving up admitting it wasn’t the “corporate” farms or the cruelty that was the issue. Their stated goals were to eliminate the consumption of animal products by our society.
I hope your Christmas dinner will include a big prime rib roast as that is my business, but a turkey or ham would be nice, too. Butter on your bread and bacon and eggs are good for breakfast and ice cream is popular for dessert. Cheerios and a glass of water just doesn’t measure up for me. We have things to be happy about this holiday season. Thank you for your support of farmers and ranchers.
ing profitable and farmers needing to be sustainable, and those issues haven’t been addressed yet. I think with the incoming administration, we have a chance for something, but we still have problems in California.
“We’re disappointed when it comes to the statewide measures that continue to create bigger government and more government and higher costs.”
SJFB First Vice President James Chinchiolo said he also was heartened by the overall election outcome.
“To me, the voters communicated they wanted to see something different,” said Chinchiolo, who grows walnuts and cherries with his father near Linden and Lodi.
Of the 10 statewide ballot propositions, SJFB took positions on six and prevailed on four. Two of the three can-
didates Farm Bureau endorsed lost their races, with one holding a slim lead as of press time. And Measure K, the one local bond measure SJFB fought, was approved by voters.
SJFB prevailed on propositions
Strojan said SJFB opposed statewide Propositions 2 and 4 because they would continue a trend of massive state spending by issuing new bonds. Rather than addressing budget shortfalls, the ballot measures shift government program costs from general fund tax revenues to additional public indebtedness. Ultimately, farmers and other taxpayers will be responsible for repaying the bonds.
SJFB Endorsement Committee Chairman Paul Sanguinetti, who farms tree and row crops with his sons near Stockton, said the two measures would further burden taxpayers.
“People think it’s free money so they’ll vote for (the bonds),” he said. “They don’t understand they have to pay them back.”
Prop 2, passed 58.2% to 41.8%, authorized $10 billion in bonds for con-
struction and modernization of public kindergarten through 12th grade and community college facilities. Prop 4, passed by 59.3% to 40.7%, authorized $10 billion in bonds for a host of environmentalrelated activities, including safe drinking water, drought, floods, forest and water resilience, nature-based climate solutions and park creation.
The four initiatives on which Farm Bureau prevailed were:
• Prop 6, which failed, would have changed the current super majority two-thirds vote to 55% to allow local governments to impose parcel taxes to build or rehabilitate public infrastructure and affordable housing.
• Prop 32, which failed, would have increased the minimum wage to $18 per hour.
• Prop 33, which failed, would have expanded local government’s authority to enact rent control on residential properties.
• Prop 36, which passed, allows felony charges and increases sentences for
certain drug and theft crimes.
Sonoma County voters soundly defeated Measure J, which would have eliminated most livestock operations including small-scale efforts. SJFB contributed $5,000 to the No on J campaign.
Board members took the financial step because if the measure had passed, they feared it would embolden animal rights activists to expand their efforts possibly into the San Joaquin Valley and San Joaquin County.
Chinchiolo said he didn’t know whether Measure J brought out voters’ interest in agriculture or whether the Sonoma County Farm Bureau did a good job educating them about the gravity of the ballot proposal.
“One way or another it’s just refreshing to feel the strength,” he said.
But Chinchiolo didn’t expect the animal rights activists to give up after this one defeat.
Continued from previous page
Opposed Delta College bond measure passes
On the local level, SJFB not only opposed Measure K but actively fought it with the “Stop Measure K” campaign, Strojan said.
The ballot initiative authorized $598 million in general obligation bonds to fund improvements to San Joaquin Delta Community College. To repay them, the community college district will levy an estimated $16 per $100,000 of assessed valuation and will collect it until fiscal year 2059-60.
Sanguinetti provided an example of a hypothetical producer with 100 acres that the county valued at $20,000 per acre. That person would end up paying about $320 more per year in property taxes.
All told between principle and interest, the bond repayment will amount to more than $1.18 billion.
“It was just not fiscally responsible,” Strojan said.
He said the higher property taxes also come at a time when farmers, small businesses and homeowners can ill afford them.
With funding from the SJFB Farmers United Political Action Committee, the Stop Measure K campaign included printing and placing 100 yard signs around the county, buying advertisements on social media and creating the stopmeasurek. com website.
Voters approved Measure K 58.24% to 41.76%, with 55% needed for passage. Endorsed candidates yielded mixed results
SJFB also endorsed three candidates, two of whom lost and one who was still embroiled in a nailbiter as of press time.
In the District 5 Senate race, Democrat Jerry McNerny defeated GOP challenger Jim Shoemaker 159,769 to 145,608 votes. Chinchiolo said SJFB endorsed Shoemaker because he had always made himself available to Farm Bureau, “and that’s a good thing.”
“He’s been very open and makes sure
he’s present, and that goes a long way just physically being in our presence or being available.”
For District 3 county board of supervisors, six-term Lathrop Mayor Sonny Dhaliwal beat Steve DeBrum 26,944 to 24,914. During candidate interviews, Strojan said Dhaliwal was impressive, but SJFB ended up endorsing former dairy farmer DeBrum because of his ties to agriculture.
Nevertheless, Strojan said Farm Bureau looks to establish a relationship with Dhaliwal and working with him.
In the hotly contested 13th Congressional District race, incumbent John Duarte, R-Hughson, led by just 351 votes over
Democratic challenger Adam Gray as of Nov. 21. This is a repeat of the 2022 election, when Duarte beat Gray by 564 votes.
As president of Duarte Nursery in Hughson, Duarte is one of the few farmers in Congress and understands the challenges faced by the industry, Strojan said.
“We stepped up the best we could to get him reelected,” he said.
As of Nov. 21, about 9,700 San Joaquin County mail-in ballots remained to be counted and an additional 5,700 needed to be cured, which involves allowing voters to correct rejected mail-in ballots.
County election officials must finalize their results by Dec. 5, and the secretary of state must certify the election by Dec. 13.
Be sure to subscribe to the Friday Review e-newsletter to get the latest updates. To sign up, call the SJFB office at (209) 9314931 or email staff@sjfb.org.
Mussels
Continued from page 1
problem decades ago, it was too late for eradication. With the golden mussel having been found in seven Delta locations, Strecker said he’s concerned it may also be too late to eradicate this most recent bivalve invader.
SJFB Second Vice President Herman Doornenbal, who also chairs the SJFB Water Committee, said committee members discussed the golden mussel at their most recent meeting. Since it’s still a developing issue, he said members continue to learn about it.
“The only thing I know is there’s a concern that if you get enough on an intake, they’ll start plugging it up,” Doornenbal said. “But it’s something we’re going to keep our eye on.”
Bruce Blodgett, executive director of the Delta Protection Commission, agreed. “There’s always a concern any time you run into a new invasive.”
To bring members of the five-county commission up to speed, Blodgett said California Department of Fish and Wildlife Invasive Species Program Manager Martha Volkoff is scheduled to speak at their January meeting.
“There’s a lack of information more than there’s a lot of information,” he said. “That’s why when we meet in January, it will be an agenda item.”
Mussels first discovered in October
In San Joaquin County, California Department of Water Resources staff initially discovered the invasive mussels during routine operations near Rough and Ready Island just west of the Port of Stockton in mid-October. Shortly afterward, they found more farther downstream at Turner Cut.
Since then, surveys have found golden mussels in five additional locations including in the Victoria Canal, in the Middle River, near the Stockton Water Treatment Plant, and at two separate locations in the Old River north of Tracy.
A native of China and Southeast Asia, the bivalves also were discovered in Merced County’s O’Neill Forebay in October. DWR has begun boat inspections at the forebay to try to reduce their spread.
How golden mussels arrived in the state is unknown, although DFW public information officer Steve Gonzalez said wildlife biologists suspect they hitchhiked in the ballast tanks or on hulls of oceangoing ships.
The two discoveries in O’Neill Forebay near Santa Nella possibly were transported on fishing gear or recreational boats that weren’t properly cleaned, he said. State and federal wildlife officials are currently determining their next steps.
“Right now, the initial steps are trying to figure out where they’re located,” Gonzalez said. “We’ll probably treat them like zebra and quagga mussels, which involves education and containment. I think those have been the most effective when dealing with zebra and quagga.”
He was referring to two other invasive fresh-water mussels that were initially found in San Benito County and Southern California in 2007 and 2008, respectively.
The best management practices developed for the other mussels involve cleaning, draining and drying recreational equipment and boats before transporting them from one water body to the next. Get to know golden mussels
Golden mussels average about 0.75 inch and get their names from the shell’s yellow to golden hue. Their visual appearance is similar to zebra and quagga mussels.
To differentiate the newcomers from the other two, wildlife experts use genetic testing or microscopic examination.
Although golden mussels prefer fresh water, they can tolerate wide ranges in pH, pollution, salinity and temperatures, according to U.S. Geological Survey information.
They also are filter feeders, consuming large amounts of phytoplankton. As a result, they can disrupt natural populations of invertebrates and cause algal blooms.
Golden mussels undergo several developmental stages starting with larvae and then the veliger stage, which is when the shell begins to form. Both are mobile and can easily disperse in waterways.
Eventually they transition to the plantigrade stage, when they form adhesive feet and look for suitable surfaces on which to attach. At this point, larvae develop into juveniles and remain in place until
adulthood.
Golden mussels breed year-round, although little research exists about their reproductive potential. In Argentina, for example, it was not unusual to find colonies of 5,900 to 290,000 mussels per square yard on hard surfaces about 15 years after it was first confirmed in the early 1990s.
If you find a mollusk you suspect may be the new golden mussel, report it to DFW’s Invasive Species Program with the exact location and at least one clear image of the pest. They can be reported online at https:// wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Invasives/ Report , via email at invasives@wildlife. ca.gov or by telephone at (866) 440-9530.
the AMERICAN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION
By Samantha Ayoub, AFBF Associate Economist
Labor costs continue to climb according to 2025 AEWR
By Samantha Ayoub, AFBF Associate Economist
WHILE MOST AMERICANS have their sights set on Thanksgiving, farmers who use the H-2A program were focused on USDA-National Agricultural Statistics Service’s Farm Labor report, released on Nov. 20, as it offers a glimpse into their future operational expenses.
Each year, the Department of Labor (DOL) uses the “field and livestock workers’ combined” wage rate reported in the November Farm Labor report (based on the Farm Labor Survey or FLS) to establish most H-2A workers’ minimum wage, known as the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR). This year, the combined field and livestock worker wage rate nationally is $18.12, up 3.2% from the 2023 release. Regional wages increased an average of 4.5%, but this reflects wide ranges of change across the country. The new wages become official when DOL publishes them in the Federal Register in December. But this wage increase isn’t the only hurdle H-2A users will have to clear in 2025.
What to expect in 2025
The FLS collects data twice a year –every month in California – through voluntary farm surveys in every state expect Alaska. These surveys collect employment and wage data for 1 week each quarter –in January, April, July and October. The
November FLS reports the annual average combined field and livestock wage for 15 regions and three states – California, Florida and Hawaii. The combined field and livestock wage in the FLS includes six Standard Occupation Classifications (SOCs) – graders and sorters; agricultural equipment operators; farmworkers: crop, nursery and greenhouse; farmworkers: farm, ranch and aquacultural animals; packers and packagers; and agricultural workers, all others. Over 96% of H-2A workers fall into these SOCs. The remaining employment contracts that include any job requirements outside of these SOCs, including five of the top 10 fiscal year 2024 H-2A occupations, and any Alaskan employers will update their AEWR when the respective state’s May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics is released in early April 2025.
The national average combined field and livestock worker wage released in this report had the lowest growth rate since 2018, but no employers pay the national wage, as they pay the regional wage for their state. On average, AEWRs will rise 4.5% from 2024, but where an employer is located will have big impacts on their wage change. Regional wages vary substantially, ranging from $14.83 in the Delta region – Mississippi, Louisiana and Arkansas – to $20.08 in Hawaii.
Eleven of the 15 regions will see an
increase in wages larger than the national growth rate. The Southeast – South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama – and Florida can expect a 10% increase in 2025, over $1.40 more per hour. In comparison, nonfarm wages rose only 4% from October 2023 to 2024. Florida began raising its state minimum wage $1 per hour each year in 2020 until it reaches $15 per hour in 2026 which may be contributing to
spikes in farm wages.
California’s wage increased only 1% this year, a relief after averaging an increase of 7.3% each year for the last five years. After five years with the highest AEWR, California will fall to second with an hourly wage of $19.97, following only Hawaii, where farmers will be required
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to pay $20.08 per hour, up 7.2% from 2024. However, California is the thirdlargest employer of H-2A workers with 37,511 certified positions in fiscal year 2024, while Hawaii had only 251 positions certified in the same year.
Interestingly, the Lakes region – Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota – had a decrease in the combined field and livestock wage rate in 2024. It is possible that declining response rates in the Lakes region have affected the data collection. Michigan has also seen decreases in the number of H-2A employers in their state in fiscal year 2024. This may indicate that higher paying employers, including those utilizing H-2A, are exiting the program in response to rising production expenses, including labor. It is also possible that shrinking net farm incomes have reduced the ability of farmers to offer incentive pay, such as a piece rate. Since the FLS collects gross wages that include bonus compensation, a decrease in incentive pay
would lead to an overall wage decrease. While the FLS results are typically copied and pasted into the new AEWR announcement, DOL has the authority to establish other wages. So, H-2A employers in the Lake region will have to wait until December to see if their minimum wage rates will follow the survey down.
Implementation inconsistencies
The timeline to implement the new 2025 AEWR will vary depending on where the employer is located. DOL finalized a new Farmworker Protection Rule in April 2024 that, in addition to many other provisions, removed the traditional 14-day implementation period for employers to begin paying the new AEWR. Seventeen states – Georgia, Kansas, South Carolina, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia – sued DOL over the rulemaking, and as of August 26, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia granted a temporary halt of the rule in the filing states. Rather
Celebrating the season. Since 1867.
The holiday season is the perfect time to spread joy to our valued customers and friends. As temperatures fall, leaves tumble, and snow blankets the mountaintops, families and friends come together to celebrate cherished traditions. We are especially thankful for the relationships we share within the communities we proudly serve during this festive time.
Bank of Stockton wishes you the happiest of holidays!
than pausing implementation of the rules across the country, DOL now has different requirements for employers in just those 17 states. While 48% of H-2A workers are employed in the states who filed for an injunction, for most states, this is the first year that employers will be required to immediately begin paying the new AEWR upon certification in December. Navigating the divided DOL guidelines and having to immediately alter business operations to accommodate new wages has added to the administrative burdens of employing H-2A workers.
Conclusion
Fruit and vegetable farmers, the largest users of H-2A, spend 38% of their farm expenses on labor, and that share will con-
tinue to grow if wages grow as they have in recent years. Rising farmworker wages are a considerable challenge to American specialty crop producers competing with farmers in other countries who can hire at a fraction of the cost.
DOL’s methodology of directly using the average wage rates from the FLS as the minimum H2A wage has raised concerns among users of the program, especially since it does not account for the substantial additional costs of transportation and housing, as well as the direct and indirect administrative costs of using the program. Nevertheless, H-2A workers have become vital to American food production as the domestic workforce continues to move away from agricultural labor.
AFBF survey shows 2024 holiday dinner slightly less expensive
COOKING A THANKSGIVING FEAST for your friends and family was less than last year but will still be more expensive than before the pandemic. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 39th annual Thanksgiving dinner survey provides a snapshot of the average cost of this year’s classic holiday feast for 10, which is $58.08 or about $5.80 per person.
This is a 5% decrease from 2023, which was 4.5% lower than 2022. Two years of declines don’t erase dramatic increases that led to a record high cost of $64.06 in 2022. Despite the encouraging momentum, a Thanksgiving meal is still
19% higher than it was in 2019, which highlights the impact inflation has had on food prices – and farmers’ costs – since the pandemic.
The centerpiece on most Thanksgiving tables – the turkey – helped bring down the overall cost of dinner. The average price for a 16-pound turkey is $25.67. That is $1.60 per pound, down 6% from last year.
Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers checked prices Nov. 1-7, before most grocery store chains began featuring whole frozen turkeys at sharply lower prices. According to USDA Agricultural
Marketing Service data, the average perpound feature price for whole frozen turkeys declined further during the second week of November. Consumers who have not yet purchased a turkey may find additional savings in the days leading up to Thanksgiving.
“The turkey is traditionally the main attraction on the Thanksgiving table and is typically the most expensive part of the meal,” said AFBF Economist Bernt Nelson. “The American turkey flock is the smallest it’s been since 1985 because of avian influenza, but overall demand has also fallen, resulting in lower prices at the grocery store for families planning a holiday meal.”
The shopping list for Farm Bureau’s informal survey includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream, all in quantities sufficient to serve a gathering of 10.
Most ingredients in the survey saw a decline in prices, including fresh vegetables. The drop in prices reflects price volatility in crops this year. The cost of whole milk dropped more than 14%. Favorable weather contributed to the decline in milk pricing. It is important to note, however, that milk prices vary significantly between regions in the U.S.
Items like dinner rolls and cubed stuffing both saw an 8% increase because higher labor costs, among other drivers, are increasing the cost of processed food. Cranberry prices increased almost 12% year-over-year. In 2023, cranberries had the second largest decrease in price of any
products in our basket at 18%. The increase this year puts cranberry prices closer to historic norms and, excluding last year, is the least expensive year since 2015.
“We should all be thankful that we live in a country with such an abundant food supply,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We are seeing modest improvements in the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for a second year, but America’s families, including farm families, are still being hurt by high inflation.”
“America has one of the most affordable food supplies in the world. In order to maintain that, we need a strong farm bill which enables Americans to pursue their dreams without worrying about feeding their families,” Duvall said. “A new farm bill with a modernized safety net to support those who raise crops and livestock ensures farmers can survive tough economic times and continue to supply food for America’s families, not just for the holidays, but year-round.”
In recognition of changes in Thanksgiving dinner traditions, the Farm Bureau price survey also includes boneless ham, Russet potatoes and frozen green beans, in an expanded menu. Adding these foods to the classic Thanksgiving menu increased the overall cost by $19.26, to $77.34.
This year’s national average cost was calculated using surveys completed with pricing data from all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers checked prices in person and online using grocery store apps and websites. They
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Continued from previous page imposed an $18 minimum wage across California.
looked for the best possible prices without taking advantage of special promotional coupons or combined purchase deals.
The AFBF Thanksgiving dinner survey was first conducted in 1986. The informal survey provides a record of comparative holiday meal costs over the years. Farm Bureau’s classic survey menu has remained unchanged since 1986 to allow for consistent price comparisons.
Individual Prices
• 16-pound turkey: $25.67 or $1.60 per pound (down 6.1%)
• 14-ounces of cubed stuffing mix: $4.08 (up 8.2%)
• 2 frozen pie crusts: $3.40 (down 2.9%)
• Half pint of whipping cream: $1.81 (up 4.7%)
• 1 pound of frozen peas: $1.73 (down 8.1%)
• 1 dozen dinner rolls: $4.16 (up 8.4%)
• Misc. ingredients to prepare the meal: $3.75 (down 5.1%)
• 30-ounce can of pumpkin pie mix: $4.15 (down 6.5%)
• 1 gallon of whole milk: $3.21 (down 14.3%)
Genasci
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San Joaquin Irrigation District. Many of these grants went to growers moving from groundwater to a surface water supply, which will protect our aquifer for future generations and help with compliance with the State Groundwater Management Act. We truly are blessed to live in an area with abundant water supplies and to be ability to avoid the devastating water cuts and fallowing they are seeing further south if we manage the supply correctly.
More recently, we as farmers, and as a country, had largely positive election results in November. Measure J in Sonoma County, which would have banned most commercial animal agriculture in the county, was not only defeated, it was absolutely crushed! With only 15% vot-
• 3 pounds of sweet potatoes: $2.93 (down 26.2%)
• 1-pound veggie tray (carrots & celery): $.84 (down 6.4%)
• 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries: $2.35 (up 11.8%)
Regional Averages
AFBF analysis revealed regional differences in the cost of the meal. The cost for the classic meal was the most affordable in the South at $56.81, followed by the Northeast at $57.36, the Midwest at $58.90, and then a significant jump in the West at $67.05. The expanded meal (classic meal plus boneless ham, Russet potatoes and green beans) was the most affordable in the South at $81.07, the Northeast at $81.37, the Midwest at $83.04, and least affordable in the West at $93.33.
Read a full analysis of the 2024 Thanksgiving dinner cost survey in a Market Intel report at fb.org/market-intel/thanksgiving-dinner-costs-are-down-again.
AFBF also conducts an annual summer cookout survey in advance of the 4th of July holiday. Be sure to watch for that in late June 2025.
ing in favor of the measure, this sends a strong signal to the radical environmental and animal groups that normal people are not interested in their extreme vision for the future.
I am proud of the role that Farm Bureaus across the state played in defeating this measure. Sonoma Farm Bureau distinguished itself by leading the charge against the failed measure and was supported by county Farm Bureaus and the California Farm Bureau. Contributions from counties like the San Joaquin Farm Bureau and members alike helped turn the tide and showed how strong we can be when we stand together!
On the state level, we passed Prop 36 with the support of nearly 70% of California’s voters. Prop 36 will begin to bring sanity to our justice system by increasing penalties for organized theft and drug crimes that were made simple misdemeanors by Prop 47. We were also able to defeat Prop 32 that would have
Last, but certainly not least, we are grateful to our members. Farming is never easy, but the economy over the last years has heaped one challenge on top of another. Still, you are there to support our work. Board members commit themselves to meetings throughout the year and members respond when we ask for help, comments, or time.
I know that the dues check is not something easy to write, especially with
the farm economy of the last few years. Please know that your membership makes a difference! Whether here in the county, on the state or federal level, it is your membership that fights to protect your ability to farm, ranch or dairy. For that we are endlessly thankful!
I hope each of you has a great December and Christmas season! Please join us on Dec. 17 for an open house where you can meet with our officers and staff, enjoy some appetizers and a little holiday cheer with fellow members!
CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS
We encourage you to contact your elected officials regarding issues facing agriculture in SJ County. Below is information on how to reach them:
The Honorable Joe Biden, President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20500 (202) 456-1414
The Honorable Laphonza Butler United States Senate
331 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-3841
District office
1 Post Street, Suite 2450 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 393-0707
The Honorable Alex Padilla, United States Senate B03 Russell Senate Office Bldg Washington, DC 20510 (202) 224-3553
District office
501 I Street, Suite 7-800 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 448-2787
The Honorable Josh Harder, U.S. House of Representatives, 9th District Washington, D.C. Office 209 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-4540, District Office
1776 West March Lane, Suite 360 Stockton, CA 95207 (209) 579-5459
The Honorable John Duarte, U.S. House of Representatives, 13th District Washington, D.C. Office 1535 Longworth Office Building Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-1947
District office
90 South First Street Turlock, CA 95380 (209) 226-6880
The Honorable Gavin Newsom, Governor 1st Floor-State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 445-2841
The Honorable Susan Eggman, California State Senate, District 5 Capitol Office 1021 O Street, Suite 8530, Sacramento, CA 95814-4900; (916) 651-4005 District Office
2291 W. March Lane, Suite B200, Stockton, CA 95207; (209) 472-9535
The Honorable Carlos Villapudua, California State Assembly, District 13 Capitol Office 1021 O Street, Suite 6340 P.O. Box 942849-0013 (916) 319-2013
District Office
4643 Quail Lakes Drive, Suite 200, Stockton CA 95207 (209) 948-7479
The Honorable Heath Flora California State Assembly, District 9 Capitol Office 1021 O Street, Suite 4730 P.O. Box 942849-0009 (916) 319-2009
District Office
578 N. Wilma Ave., Suite B Ripon, CA 95366, (209) 599-2112
SJ County Board of Supervisors: The Honorable Miguel Villapudua, Dist. 1, Chair
The Honorable Paul Canepa, Dist. 2, Vice Chair
The Honorable Tom Patti, Dist. 3
The Honorable Steven Ding, Dist. 4 The Honorable Robert Rickman, Dist. 5 44 N. San Joaquin St, 6th Floor, Ste 627, Stockton, CA 95202 (209) 468-2350
The Honorable Pat Withrow San Joaquin County Sheriff 7000 Michael Canlis Blvd. French Camp, CA 95231 (209) 468-4400
from SJC AGNET TASK FORCE
By San Joaquin County Rural Crime Division
SJC crime for Oct/Nov
Tool/equipment/ wire theft
In the area of S Bird Road/W Lehman Road in Tracy, an unknown suspect stole approximately 100 feet of copper wire, and a battery from a Caterpillar tractor, total value at $9,000.
In the 5000 block of E Leonardini Road in Stockton, unknown suspects stole copper wire from several irrigation pumps in the area. The total loss is $20,000.
In the 14000 block of E Mariposa Road in Stockton, an unknown suspect cut and damaged aluminum wire to irrigation pump and electrical box. The total value to repair/replace is $500.
In the 14000 block of E Mariposa Road in Stockton, an unknown suspect stole 20 feet of 6-gauge copper wire from irrigation pump. The total loss is $2,500.
In the area of E Collier Road/N Elliott Road in Acampo, an unknown suspect damaged an electrical box panel and stole 10 feet of copper wire from irrigation pump. The cost to repair/replace is $2,000.
In the area of 14000 E Mariposa Road in Stockton, an unknown suspect stole 20 feet of 6-gauge copper wire from irrigation pump and cut locks and chains securing fence of equipment. The total loss is $3,000.
In the area of Jack Tone Road/E Brandt Road in Lockeford, an unknown suspect stole approximately 210 feet of copper wire from irrigation pump. The total loss is $2,722.83.
In the 9000 block of W Howard Road in Stockton, an unknown suspect stole a trailer/porta potty combo from an orchard. Porta potty is male/female combo with Martini Companies LLC sticker on each restroom. The total loss is $5,000.
Recovered property
In the 9000 block of W Lorraine Road in Tracy, a stolen Toro Dingo Skid Steer out of the City of Corona was located
and returned to victim. The total recovery valued at $15,000.
In the 9000 block of W Howard Road in Stockton, two subjects were trespassing on farmers property in a stolen 2002 Chevrolet Silverado that had stolen plates. One subject claimed possession and was arrested. The vehicle was returned to victim. The total recovery is valued at $ $5,000.
In the 200 block of Downing Dr. in Galt, a stolen Honda Injection pump was located and recovered and returned to victim. The total recovery is valued at $1,800.
Commodity theft
In the 23000 block of S Chrisman Road in Tracy, an unknown suspect stole approximately 62 bales of alfalfa. The hay had tracker inside and suspect identified in Bay Area and paid victim for hay, total value at $1,000.
Arrested persons
Hunter Hulings was arrested for attempted grand theft of vehicle (John Deere tractor).
Justin Sanchez was arrested for outstanding felony warrant for kidnapping, torture/mayhem, assault with a deadly weapon and burglary.
Deshawn Thompson was arrested for outstanding bench warrant related to a vehicular manslaughter.
Angel Bermudez-Barron was arrested for sideshow charges as well as striking an officer with his vehicle and fleeing the area.
Timothy Limon was arrested for felony domestic violence charges and possession of stolen vehicle.
Tristin Hanson was arrested for possession of stolen property and possession of illicit drugs.
Please report any suspicious activity. For non-emergency reports 24 hours a day, you can call (209) 468-4400. In the event of an emergency, call 911.
THANK YOU TO SAN JOAQUIN FARM BUREAU AG MEMBERS WHO “STEPPED UP”
Thank you to our San Joaquin Farm Bureau Agricultural Members who have stepped up. Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization whose purpose is to devote time and resources to promoting and protecting agriculture in our county, state, and nation. The “Step Up Plan” is designed for members to be able to pick their dues level based on their Annual Gross Income to increase their support of agriculture and help us increase our efforts in fighting for agriculture. Business Members also have a Step Up Plan. The Step Up Plan is outlined on our website. Contact our office at (209) 931-4931 to “Step Up” your membership today.
Acampo Farm Center
• Lamar Creekside Vineyards
• Mahil Farms
• Brent Newport
• Nestor Enterprises
• S&R Egg Ranch Co.
• Nuss Farms Inc.
Calla-Nile Farm Center
• 2Q Farming Inc
• Manuel Azevedo
• David Boersma
• Bourbeau Enterprises
• Brocchini Farms Inc
• Cardoza Bros
• Central Valley Welding Mechanical Inc
• Delta Growers Inc.
• Double O Farming Inc.
• Jenkins Poultry Farm
• Joseph Gomes
• David Kamper
• Eileen Kuil
• Ioppini Farms
• Edward Machado
• Phippen Bros
• Roorda Ranches Inc
• SJC Office of Education
• SKS Enterprise Inc
• John Van Duyn
• Bryan Van Groningen
• Van Till Farms
• Michael Weststeyn Farming
• Tim Weststeyn Collegeville Farm Center
• Nomellini Farms Inc
• Prins Dairy LP
• Paul Sanguinetti
• Les Strojan
• Grant Thompson
• Thompson Ranch
• Triple S Farming LLC Escalon Farm Center
• A&A Cattle Co
• Adrian Ranch
• Bert Ballatore
• Bavaro Farming Company Inc
• Lealon Brumley
• Phillip Brumley
• Gary De Vries
• Herman Doornenbal Jr
• Larry Fredricks
• G&E Te Velde Orchards MLLC
• Caleb Gervase
• River Bend Orchards
• Roche Bros Inc
• Stagnaro Farms Inc
• Vander Schaaf Dairy
• Veenstra Farming
• Paul Voortman
• Wagner Dairy
Lafayette Farm Center
• All State Packers
• Chardon Farms Inc
• Joe Cotta & Son
• Michael Devencenzi
• Peter Devencenzi
• Graffigna Fruit Co
• Richard Grenz
• Rob Kammerer
• Lange Twins Partnership
• Matthew Lauchland
• Joe Marchesotti Co., Inc.
• Lima Ranch
• Diego Olagaray
• Joe Olagaray
• Rodney Schatz
• Van Diemen Farms
• Bronson Van Wyck
• Watanabe Bros, Inc.
Linden Farm Center
• 5 Star Farm Management Inc
• A&A Dasso Farms
• Bella Vista Ranch
• Greg Busalacchi
• Camera Brothers
• D&L Farms Inc.
• Eilers Ranch LLC
• FFD Orchards
• Ferrari Farms Inc
• J&A Solari Inc.
• Jasbir S Gill Family Limited Partnership
• Lagorio Properties LP
• Lodi Farming Inc
• Panella Trucking LLC
• Peter Boysen Realty
• Precision Irrigation Mgt
• Purviance Drillers Inc
• R&A Miller Inc
• RDJ Farms Inc
• Waterloo Orchards Inc
• Richard Zolezzi
Roberts-Union Farm Center
• Cubiburu Livestock
• D&A Farms
• Mark Lewis
• El Dorado Farms Inc
• Marca Bella Farms, Inc
• Zuckerman-Heritage Inc
Tracy Farm Center
• California Masterplant
• GloriAnn Farms Inc
• Mizuno Farms Inc
• Michael Petz
• Greg Pombo
• Reece Farms
• Hal Robertson
• Thomsen Farms Inc
• Yamasaki Farms
Victor Farm Center
• John Kautz Farms
• Vink Custom Farming Inc.
business member
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
STEP UP BUSINESSES
$7,500 SUPPORT LEVEL
American Ag Credit
Jacob DeBoer 2345 E. Earhart Ave., Stockton, CA 95206
www.agloan.com (209) 944-7478
Nationwide Insurance
Find a Farm Certified Agent: www.nationwide.com/cfbf (800) 255-9913
ACCOUNTANTS
Bowman & Company
Gary R. Daniel (209) 473-1040
Croce, Sanguinetti & Vander Veen Inc.
Pauline Sanguinetti (209) 938-1010
ASSOCIATIONS
California Farmland Trust
Charlotte Mitchell (916) 544-2712
Lodi District Grape Growers Association
Amy Blagg (209) 339-8246
Lodi Woodbridge Winegrape Commission
Stuart Spencer (209) 367-4727
San Joaquin County Historical Society
Phillip Merlo (209) 331-2055
San Joaquin Valley Hay Growers
Rick Staas (209) 835-1662
ATTORNEYS
John Herrick Attorney at Law
John H. Herrick (209) 956-0150
Nomellini, Grilli & Mcdaniel Professional Law Corp.
Dante John Nomellini (209) 465-5883
AUCTIONS
Mulrooney Auctions Co.
James P. Mulrooney (209) 366-0600
AUTO PARTS/SERVICE
Clutch & Brake Xchange
James Hitchock (209) 466-9049
$1,500 SUPPORT LEVEL
Delicato Vineyards
Marie Mathews 12001 S Highway 99, Manteca, CA 95336-8499 www.delicato.com (209) 824-3600
Pacific Gas & Electric
Dylan George 4040 N W Lane, Stockton, CA 95204 www.pge.com (209) 932-6515
Ralph Hayes & Son Inc.
Eric Hayes 20177 S. MacArthus Dr., Tracy, CA 95304 www.hayesandson.com (209) 835-4914
CHEMICALS
Mid Valley Agricultural Services Inc. (209) 851-3200
CIVIL ENGINEERING
Kjeldsen, Sinnock & Neudeck
Christopher H. Neudeck (209) 946-0268 Offfice (209) 481-0316 Mobile
COMMODITY PACKING/ MKTG
A Sambado & Sons Inc.
Lawrence Sambado (209) 931-2568
Delta Packing Co of Lodi Inc. Annamarie Costamagna (209) 334-1023
M&R Co Reynolds Packing Co.
Jeremy Hjelmstad (209) 369-2725
Travaille And Phippen Dave Phippen (209) 599-6111
COMMUNICATIONS
unWired Broadband
Mark Peterson (559) 753-0386
CONTRACTORS/CONSTRUCTION
Ford Construction Co. (209) 333-1116
Tom Mayo Construction Tom D. Mayo (209) 943-6248
CONSULTING
Cal Ag Safety
Ann Curtoni Lial (209) 351-0321
Precessi Ag Services Inc.
Paul Precessi (209) 670-9072
$1,500 SUPPORT LEVEL CONT.
Travaille & Phippen
Dave Phippen 12700 E Graves Rd., Manteca, CA 95336 www.tapalmonds.com (209) 599-6111
$750 SUPPORT LEVEL A Sambado & Sons, Inc. (209) 931-2568
Anteris Agronomics LLC (209) 900-3270
Big Valley Tractor & Bobcat Central, Inc. (209) 762-6413
GAR Bennett LLC (559) 480-3029
CUSTOM HARVESTING
M2 Farming
Nick Mussi (209) 969-3333
CUSTOM PACKAGING
The Packagers LLC
Jason Ng 702) 863-9898
EDUCATION
San Joaquin Delta Community College (209) 954-5151
FARMS
A&B Koster
William M. Koster (209) 836-4690
Ag West Inc
Mike Berg (209) 888-5455
AM Farms
Paul Marchini (209) 462-1185
Bert Bacchetti Farms Inc.
Mark Bacchetti (209) 835-2224
HRM Farms Inc.
Glenn Burgin (209) 465-8413
IDC Farms Inc.
Mike Conrad (209) 894-6408
Lavagnino Orchards
Ruani Lavagnino (209) 931-6728
Lucadeira Farms
Richard Marcucci (209) 481-3641
Peterson Family Vineyards
James Peterson (209) 368-8102
Vaccarezza Bros (209) 887-3163
FARMS CONT.
Van Groningen & Sons Inc
Dan Van Groningen (209) 982-5248
Van Groningen Orchards
Mark Van Groningen (209) 599-4944
Van Laar Farms
James Van Laar (209) 599-3613
FARM HARDWARE & SUPPLY
BG Agri Sales & Service
Anthony Da Valle (209) 931-7650
Discount Ag Parts
Jim Allen (209) 239-5802
J. Milano Company
Gary Milano (209) 944-0902
PBM Supply & Manufacturing
Barry Jones (530) 345-1334
Stanislaus Farm Supply
Joey Gonsalves (209) 538-7070
Zylstra Auto & Hardware
Tim A. Zylstra (209) 887-3626
FERTILIZERS & SOIL AMENDMENTS
Brown Sand, Inc.
Robert Brown (209) 234-1500
Ralph Hayes & Son Inc.
Eric Hayes (209) 835-4914 F
San Joaquin Sulphur Company
Janet Chandler (209) 368-6676
$750 SUPPORT LEVEL CONT.
Kludt Oil & Propane (209) 368-0634 • (209) 466-8969
Mid Valley Agricultural Services Inc. (209) 851-3200
Morrill Industries (209) 838-2550
Outdoor Sportsman Inc (209) 957-4867
Van De Pol Enterprises (209) 944-9115
Van Groningen & Sons Inc. (209) 982-5248
V V Enterprises (209) 599-7776
FINANCIAL
American AgCredit
Marc Busalacchi (800) 659-FARM
Bank of Stockton
Jim Nemmers (209) 249-2201
Community West Bank
Nora Andrade (559) 323-3402
Farmers & Merchants Bank
Daniel Meza (209) 367-2349
Moss Adams LLP
Eric Krienert (209) 955-6100 UEL DISTRIBUTORS
FUEL DISTRIBUTORS
Campora Propane Services
Todd Spicer (209) 466-8611
George W Lowry Inc.
Richard A. Lowry (209) 545-0791
Kludt Oil & Propane
Aron Kludt (209) 368-0634, (209) 466-8969
Valley Pacific Petroleum Service, Inc.
Rob Goodman (209) 948-9412
Van De Pol Enterprises
Tom Van De Pol (209) 944-9115
Van Unen Miersma Propane Inc
Jerry Behlen (209) 823-1315
GRAIN/FEED/SEED
AL Gilbert Company Jay Gilbert (209) 847-1721
Baglietto Seeds (209) 466-0433
GRAIN/FEED/SEED CONT.
Escalon Feed & Supply
Ken Van Gorkum (209) 838-3326
M & M Feed Service
Terry Mulder (209) 531-3353
Phil O’Connell Grain Co.
Tim Grunsky (209) 465-5871
Triple P Feeds
Dallas C. Paul (209) 333-2808
V-V Enterprises
Dave C. Van Vliet (209) 599-7776
INSURANCE
Altamont Insurance Brokers
Dan Simonich (209) 835-6395
Big Valley Insurance
Bill R. Crawford (209) 835-5253 (209) 365-9600
Dan Van Vuren Insurance Agency Inc.
Dan Van Vuren (209) 484-5578
Sanguinetti & Company Insurance Brokers
Karen Sanguinetti (209) 954-1000
The Zenith
Sandy Fiack (559) 260-6499
Todd Garibaldi Insurance Agency
Todd R. Garibaldi (209) 334-3030
Wever Insurance
Don Wever (209) 599-2161
IRRIGATION/PUMPS/WELLS
Laurel Ag & Water
Brooke Marchy (209) 810-8021
GAR Bennett LLC
Ralph Rendon (559) 480-3029
Moorman’s Water Systems Inc.
Larry Moorman (209) 931-3210 REAL ESTATE
Pacific Southwest Irrigation Corp.
Jim Clare (209) 986-0099
Rain for Rent
Gregory McDevitt (209) 466-5602
LABORATORY/TESTING
Anteris Agronomics LLC
Kion Kashefi (209) 900-3270
Fruit Growers Laboratory, Inc.
Michael Ostrom (800) 440-7821
LABOR CONTRACTOR
Premium Employment Services
Jesse Alderete, III (800) 581-5540
LAND PREPARATION
G&F Ag Services, Inc.
Randy Fondse (209) 599-8911
Kromann & Company
Rodney P. Kromann, Jr. (209) 581-1775
Kuil Brothers Ag Service
Matthew D. Kuil (209) 599-4960
MACHINE SERVICES
Ag Industrial Manufacturing
Bob Ford (209) 369-1994
Tuff Boy Sales, inc
Martin Harris (209) 858-4131
MEDIA/RADIO
“105.9, the Bull”
Robert La Rue (209) 948-5786
NURSERIES
Burchell Nursery
Tom Burchell (209) 845-8733
Casa Cristal Nursery Inc
John Moso (661) 792-6468
Dave Wilson Nursery
Robert Woolley (209) 874-1821
Duarte Nursery
Alex Duarte (209) 531-0351
PEST MANAGEMENT TOOLS
Outdoor Sportsman
Eric Johnson (209) 957-4867PROCESSING
PROCESSING
County Fair Food Products
Leslie Kruger (209) 469-9934
DeRuosi Nut
Dean Penero (209) 838-8307
Musco Family Olive Company Ben Gibbons (209) 836-4600
Pearl Crop Inc. Ulash Turkhan (209) 808-7575
Prima Frutta Packing Tim Sambado (209) 931-1460
ShellPro Inc. (209) 727-0707U
Sunrise Fresh LLC Jake Samuel (209) 932-0192
REAL ESTATE
Bokides - Hesseltine Real Estate Co.
Robert Hesseltine (209) 334-3045
Peter Boysen Realty
Pete Boysen (209) 351-2150
Petersen & Company
Agricultural Real Estate Joe Petersen (209) 210-8010
Reeve Associates Real Estate
Gary Reeve (209) 835-2002
Wagner Land Company Charles Wagner (209) 942-4146
RESTAURANTS
De Vinci’s Corporation
Chris Trotter (209) 887-2121
Koes Bar
Ken Littleton (209) 329-2366
RETAIL
Orchard and Vineyard Supply (209) 368-8595
SOLAR
Chico Electric
Norm Neilsen (530) 891-6749
SPREADING SERVICES
Gary Bohnet (209) 369-6993, (209) 481-1349
STEEL BUILDINGS
Fabri Steel West Inc.
John M. Arizcuren (800) 411-4215
Roland Construction
Jim A. Hoagland (209) 462-2687
STEAM CLEANERS
Hotsy Pacific
Jim O’Connell (800) 640-1227
TIRES
Les Schwab Tire Center-Lodi
Gary Holm (209) 334-3961
Lodi Tire Service
Kenneth A. Lung (209) 369-1985
Swier Tire & Auto Repair
Daniel Swier (209) 559-7512
TRACTORS/EQUIPMENT
Belkorp Ag, LLC
John Gilligan (209) 538-3831
Big Valley Tractor & Bobcat Central, Inc.
Don Franzia (209) 762-6413
Evolution Equipment Services Inc.
Marti Sporleder (209) 810-5796
TRACTORS/EQUIPMENT CONT.
Garton Tractor
Jeff Filkins (209) 948-5401
Pape´ Machinery
Brian A. Heavey (209) 983-8122
TRANSPLANTERS/PLUG PLANTER
Pro Plant LLC
Skip Wilbur (209) 969-7547
TRANSPORTATION
Antonini Bros. Inc.
Joseph Antonini (209) 466-9041
G3 Enterprises
Ethan Jones (800) 321-8747
Hammer Trucking
Michael J. Staples (209) 481-1567
Silva Trucking
Dave Silva (209) 982-1114
UTILITIES
PG&E
Debbie McCaffrey (209) 932-2566
VEHICLES
Chase Chevrolet
Paul Correia (209) 475-6740
Interstate Truck Center
Rick Coslett (209) 944-5821EMENT
VINEYARD MANAGEMENT
Arbor Vineyards
Larry P. Mettler (209) 339-0525
K.G. Vineyard Management, LLC
Ben Kolber (209) 367-8996
R-N-R Vineyard, Inc.
Russell Machado (209) 327-3165
WATER
Oakdale Irrigation District
Steve Knell (209) 847-0341
South San Joaquin Irrigation District
Peter Rietkerk (209) 249-4600
Stockton East Water District
Scot Moody (209) 948-0333
Woodbridge Irrigation District
Keith Bussman (209) 625-8438
WINERIES
Bokisch Vineyards
Markus Bokisch (209) 334-4338
Constellation Wines US, Inc.
Paul Dismukes (209) 369-5861
Delicato Vineyards
Marie Mathews (209) 824-3600
Jahant Vineyards LLC
Kevin Phillips (209) 368-7384
LangeTwins Winery & Vineyards (209) 334-9780
The Lucas Winery
David Lucas (209) 368-2006
Michael David Vineyards
Michael J. Phillips (209) 368-7384
St. Amant Winery
Barbara S. Spencer (209) 367-0646
