[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 159 (Wednesday, November 12, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CONGRATULATIONS TO C.W. ``BILL'' JONES AND THE WESTERN DIVISION OF 
                            WILBUR-ELLIS CO.

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. GEORGE P. RADANOVICH

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 12, 1997

  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate C.W. 
``Bill'' Jones and the Western Division of the Wilbur-Ellis Co. as they 
are presented with Fresno Agriculturist and Fresno AG Business of the 
Year Awards. Bill Jones and the Wilbur-Ellis Co. exemplify excellence 
in the agriculture industry.
  Bill Jones, originally from Big Spring, TX, graduated from the 
University of California, Davis with a bachelor of science degree in 
agriculture. After being honorably discharged with the rank of captain 
from the U.S. Army Air Force, Bill Jones returned to the Central Valley 
where he worked as a fertilizer salesman. In 1949, Jones acquired 1,200 
acres of farmland in the Firebaugh Canal Co. and started J & J Farms. 
In 1968, Bill was appointed to the California Water Commission by then-
Gov. Ronald Reagan. During his time of service on the commission, he 
was known for recognizing the importance of water development 
throughout the State. J & J Farms has continued to grow and add a 
number of crops to its production ledger, including cotton, melons, 
alfalfa, corn, tomatoes, onions, garlic, broccoli, lettuce, and other 
vegetables.
  Bill Jones played a key role in the formation of the San Luis and 
Delta-Mendota Water Users Association in 1977, and was elected 
president of its board of directors at the first meeting. He held the 
position for 20 years, retiring in June 1997. Under his leadership, the 
association expanded its membership to include urban contractors such 
as the Santa Clara Valley, the city of Tracy and the Grasslands Water 
District.
  The Western Division of the Wilbur-Ellis Co., headquartered in 
Fresno, has been serving the San Joaquin Valley and Arizona for 51 
years. The company was selected by a committee representing the AG 
Fresno Advising Board, the Baker, Peterson & Franklin [BP&F] AG 
Department, and other organizations as a winner of the 1997 BP&F AG 
Business Award.
  The Western Division of the Wilbur-Ellis Co. is actively involved in 
testifying, lobbying, and helping to influence legislation for the 
reform of the Endangered Species Act, pesticide safety, water issues, 
and tax reform. They encourage their 400 employees to be actively 
involved in community service. The company also provides its employees 
company time to pursue their interests. The company sells pesticides 
and fertilizers through 18 branch locations, and its AMC subsidiary 
manufactures spray rigs and equipment. The company prides itself on the 
exceptional service to their customers.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I congratulate both C.W. 
``Bill'' Jones and the Western Division of the Wilbur-Ellis Co. as they 
are presented with the Fresno Agriculturist of the Year and the AG 
Business of the Year Awards. The hard work and dedication of both Mr. 
Jones and the Wilbur-Ellis Co. serve as a model for all Americans. I 
ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Mr. Jones and the Western 
Division of the Wilbur-Ellis Co. the best for the future.

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