Farm Bureau praises appointment of undersecretary of agriculture

» January 27, 2005 «

A J Yates' Experience Key to New Role in California

The president of the California Farm Bureau Federation today praised the appointment of A.J. Yates as Undersecretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture. The appointment was announced Wednesday following the resignation of Chuck Ahlem earlier in the week.

"A.J. brings a unique combination of agricultural and governmental experience to his role as undersecretary," said Bill Pauli. "As a longtime farmer, he knows firsthand the satisfactions and frustrations of work on the farm and how government programs and regulations can add to both."

Pauli noted that Yates' experience in government with the California Department of Food and Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as well as his past work as President of Fresno County Farm Bureau, will be invaluable in ensuring a smooth transition.

"While we are grateful for the service and dedication of Chuck Ahlem, we are certain that A.J. will be able to undertake his new duties quickly and smoothly. We look forward to continuing our working relationship in his new post," said Pauli.

The California Farm Bureau Federation is the state's largest farm organization, representing nearly 87,000 members.

Contact: Dave Kranz
Phone: 916/561-5550
news@cfbf.com

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