Farm Bureau names Ann Schmidt communications manager

» January 31, 2005 «

An experienced agricultural communicator has joined the California Farm Bureau Federation as manager of its Communications/News Division.

Ann Schmidt oversees Farm Bureau's comprehensive communications program, which provides timely information to Farm Bureau members, the news media and the general public.

"Farmers and ranchers know that it's crucial to communicate with Californians about our work to provide safe, reliable, affordable food and farm products while acting as stewards of the state's natural resources," California Farm Bureau President Bill Pauli said. "Ann brings to Farm Bureau a track record of success in telling the farmer's story."

Prior to joining Farm Bureau, Schmidt served as manager of communications for the California Rice Commission. Her previous experience includes work as vice president of communications for the California Forest Products Commission and as senior account executive for a public relations firm that assisted food and agricultural clients. Before entering the media relations field, she worked as a news anchor and reporter for KFBK radio and as a field producer for KCRA TV, both in Sacramento.

At Farm Bureau, she will manage production of the organization's two member publications, Ag Alert® and California Country®; a weekly television program, also titled California Country; the Farm Bureau Web sites, www.cfbf.com and www.cacountry.tv; and an active media relations program than includes a daily news service, Food and Farm News.

"Farm Bureau offers its members an unusually comprehensive communications program," Pauli said. "Under Ann's leadership, our communications team will enhance its reputation as an information source for reporters and the public."

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

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

Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the California Farm Bureau Federation when reprinting this item.