Ag Circle Spring 2011

agcircle

cal poly, san luis obispo spring 2011

Volume 29, Issue 2, Spring 2011 Published biannually by the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT) and the Brock Center for Agricultural Communication.

California Polytechnic State University Brock Center for Agricultural Communication 1 Grand Ave. San Luis Obispo, California 93407 (Tel) 805-756-6138 brockctr@calpoly.edu Building 10 Room 234 Editor-in-Chief: Jiana Escobar Assistant Editor:

Staff pictured left to right: Anthony Pannone, Jiana Escobar, David Jones and Daniel Coultas

David Jones Staff: Daniel Coultas and Anthony Pannone

a m essa g e f r o m t h e e d i t i n g s t a f f

Advisor: Richard Gearhart Designers: Emmalee Barlett, Daniel Coultas, Jiana Escobar, Lauren Goodacre and David Jones Photographers: Daniel Coultas, Mary Gavin, Louise Harris, Carrie Issacson, David Jones, Kameron Kelsey, Anthony Pannone, Jennifer Ray, and John Reveles Writers: Malorie Bankhead, Daniel Coultas, Mary Gavin, Lesle Friend, Louise Harris, Carrie Issacson, Kameron Kelsey, Anthony Pannone, Jennifer Ray, John Reveles, Sam

This has been a great year for Ag Circle Magazine, full of changes and new adventures. We’re all very pleased to bring to you another beautiful issue with some great reads!

As we finish the last publication for the 2010-2011 academic year, there is somewhat of a bittersweet feeling floating around the office. Most of the staff is graduating and turning the page to a new chapter. We’ve had a great time working with our writers this year, and we’re sad to leave, but we can’t wait to see the outcome of future Ag Circle issues.

We’re excited to welcome David Jones to the Editor-in-Chief position and bring aboard three brand-new staff members: Jennifer Ray, Carrie Isaacson and Leslie Friend. These fine people are dedicated to delivering you an amazing magazine, and we think they’ll reach that goal.

Thanks for reading our humble magazine, and we’ll see you again next year!

The Editors

Salfiti and Krista Scarbough Submissions: Submissions to the Ag Circle are welcomed.

Permission to Reproduce: All material in this issue may be reproduced with the expressed permission of the ACT. Opinions in the Ag Circle are not necessarily those of the College and/or University administration.

The Ag Circle is entirely created by students and represents Cal Poly’s learn-by-doing philosophy.

ON THE COVER This cover features the work of our photo contest winner, Kameron Kelsey! The picture was taken on a cattle ranch in Australia, flip to page 4 for a full account of his journey!

i ns i de this issue

4

04

Interning Abroad

06

Chef Spreads Love

6

08 09

Return to Freedom

by John Reveles

11

Sigma Alpha Fly Away

12

SLO Community

13

Dusi Vineyard

14

Western Bonanza

16

Photo Contest Finalists

22

World Ag Expo

10

Crops Unit Addition

by Carrie Issacson

Cal Poly President

9

by Anthony Pannone

10

8

by Kameron Kelsey

11 12

by Jennifer Ray

by Krista Scarbough

by Mary Gavin

by Louise Harris

13

by Malorie Bankhead

by Sam Salfiti

14 22

Lake Nash Station

Interning in Australia Story by Kameron Kelsey

Ever since I was a little kid I knew that I wanted to travel the world. When I got to college I figured studying abroad would be a good place to start my adventures. Last year I was accepted to the Australearn study abroad program where I would be headed to Surfers Paradise, Queensland, Australia.

Having grown up on a Guest Ranch in Montana, I’ve always had an interest in livestock and the ranching lifestyle. My family has owned the Nine Quarter Circle Ranch since 1946 and we’ve been inviting people to come join us since then.

In the summer of 2008 several families from Australia came to our ranch for vacation. I had heard about cattle stations in Australia, but didn’t know much about them. During their visit, they told me about what working on a station would be like. Based on their description, I hoped someday I would travel to the outback to work with cattle. I kept in contact with our Australian guests, and informed them of my plans to study abroad. I expressed interest in working on a Ag Circle 4

cattle station and told them I would do whatever to get a job on a cattle operation in Australia.

I flew to Australia in early February 2010 where I arrived at the Gold Coast. This was the first time I had ever traveled alone. I quickly settled in and kept in contact with the guests from our ranch. They helped arrange for me to get into contact with an owner of several large cattle stations, George Scott. I contacted him and he arranged for me to come out to Lake Nash Station in Northern Territory, Australia. My only instructions: be at the airport at 10 a.m. sharp and someone will pick me up.

I arrived at the airport carrying only a backpack. A man approached and asked if was Kameron. I nodded and he told me to follow him. Andy was the pilot for the station and he had come to pick me up in the station’s plane. So I grabbed my bag and threw it on top of the other supplies he had bought in town and we loaded into the single engine airplane and took off. During the flight, I had plenty of

time to chat with Andy about life on the station. We were headed for the Northern Territory - Queensland border, which is in the middle of the outback. He told me that the station was 4.3 million acres and raised 65,000 head of cows, which is the second largest station in Australia. We arrived at the station as the crew was sitting down to lunch. After meeting everyone, they showed me my bunk and told me that I started work tomorrow and breakfast was at 4:30 a.m.

The day I started, it was a brisk June morning, which is in the middle of the winter in the southern hemisphere.

We quickly ate and then headed out to

the corrals to catch horses. The head stockman, Nick, pointed out a dark brown Australian stock horse and told me his name was Detroit. I caught and saddled him and we loaded our horses into a stock truck. Next, we had to make it 110 miles on a dirt road. The station was so large that it was more economical to camp by the cattle rather than bring the cattle to the station. We would spend the next three weeks camping out next to corrals to process and vaccinate cattle.

Everyday would start at 4:30 am we would go out and gather a pasture of 2,000-3,000 head of cattle using horses, helicopters and dirt bikes. Once we had

them gathered we would push them to the closest set of corrals. Then we would sort, vaccinate and brand what needed to be done. Once we had handled every cow they were turned back out and the next pasture was gathered. It was hard work and we didn’t stop work until the sun went down. Then it was back to camp.

The whole experience was rewarding and was one of the best decisions I have ever made. My experience was truly unique, but the great thing about studying abroad is that you can customize your adventure and truly make it what you want.

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Local Chef Spreads Love Story by Anthony Pannone Greg Holt loves food and shows affinity for those who grow it.

“I’ve never met a jerk farmer,” he says.

Thanks to the relationship between a local chef and farmer, providing edible sustenance from the farm to the plate has become a reality in San Luis Obispo County. Holt, executive chef at Big Sky Café, has formed a friendship with organic farmer Jerry Rutiz—which roots their bond in the soil from which Holt’s dishes originate.

“Greg supports local farmers,” Rutiz says, “and that’s why he features product that is different.”

Rutiz, a Cal Poly crop science graduate, owns and operates Rutiz Farms, a 30-acre spread in Arroyo Grande blocked on all four sides by housing tracks.

Surrounded by stucco, the organic farm fits in nicely with community.

“I’ve got people watching me— which is a good thing because they’re the ones eating the food,” Rutiz says.

Rutiz says strawberries were grown on the land before he became steward.

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Despite his passion to grow, Rutiz was unsure about the endeavor.

“I was drafted into it,” he says.

Strawberries are a crop on which pests love to munch so the soil was saturated with pesticides. The perfect man for the job, Rutiz says he switched to organic methods after members of the community complained about increased cases of asthma and dogs losing their hair.

Although trained in conventional agriculture, Rutiz exclusively grows organic fruits and vegetables.

“I got my feet into [organic farming] at a good time,” says Rutiz, who began growing organic because of increased customer interest.

After college, Rutiz says he farmed conventionally for two years but “didn’t make a penny.” His mother, a volunteer who in 1983 set up markets in southern California, advised her son about an alternative marketplace called farmers markets.

Heeding mother’s call, Rutiz threw some produce in a pickup and drove to Santa Monica where he sold cabbage, broccoli and sugar peas. When

he returned home after the first trip, three hundred dollars richer, he says he sensed opportunity.

“I’m an innovator,” he says.

Rutiz continued his trips south and each time sold out of goodies. And that’s when he noticed a trend in customer requests, he says.

“Customers wanted me to grow herbs, and I said ‘Sure, I’ll go look in a book and see how to make basil,’” he says.

“They asked and I provided.”

Eventually Rutiz became a different kind of farmer.

“It took me 15 years to figure out how to get organic fertilizer,” he says.

Rutiz now grows 30 varieties of produce, and he says diversity has led to the farm’s success.

“Whatever you need, I offer,” he says.

Next to patches of organic broccoli, rainbow chard, carrots and a mix of berries, a farm stand offers visitors an assortment of freshly picked victuals.

“It’s a one stop market,” Rutiz says.

But you don’t have drive to the farm to purchase produce because Rutiz

delivers. And one of his stops is Big Sky Café.

Despite the farm to kitchen service, Holt says he enjoys when he travels to the farm.

“It’s one thing to buy the product,” Holt says, “but when you go see the flow it’s a whole different ballgame.”

When Holt and Rutiz transact business, they strengthen ties between farmers and the community.

Holt says creating a network of relationships helps because he not only hears about product from farmers but also from local chefs. Holt receives weekly e-mails from farmers, and each provides a detailed list of available product.

While this web creates symbiotic relationships between local foodies it can be troublesome, Holt says, because everyone competes for the same product.

“I ask what else you got,” he says, describing his pitch to farmers when product is scarce.

Before holding down the kitchen at Big Sky, Holt tried his hand as a salesman.

He says there are two types of people: “salesmen and the rest.” Holt says he only he lasted six months before resuming his place in the culinary world.

Holt, a Central Coast native, says cooking consumes his life. And at 25-years-old he studied at Santa Barbara Community College in its Hotel Culinary Program.

“I had to get a piece of paper,” he says.

Holt relished in his experiences, saying he refined his skills as a “corporate

cook” at Carrows and Marriot Hotel.

Holt maintains a staff of 17, including hot cooks, pantry cooks, prep cooks, sous chefs, dishwashers and a pastry chef.

“I hire cooks better than me to learn from,” he says.

Big Sky averages 400 customers per day; on a Saturday, 800 to 900 is “great," Holt says.

“You’ve got to be ready for one customer like you’re ready for a thousand,” he says.

Holt’s life resonates with the clatter sounds of a kitchen.

“When I go, it’ll be face down in bowl of soup,” he says.

Soup is just one menu item offered at Big Sky. The menu consists of an array roughly a full-third vegetarian, Holt says.

The café services its customers with smart, modern cooking, he adds.

“It’s good food that’s not cliché,” Holt says.

Part of the restaurant’s appeal draws from the twenty-first century idea that people want to eat better while also sharing a connection with their food.

“Farmer feeding is just the way to go. People are willing to pay because they know they’re supporting the local farmer,” Holt says.

Big Sky customers really do get what they pay for. Holt says he concentrates on texture and flavor, displaying an arsenal of cooking methods,.

“I try to present the stuff so it tastes like the food. It’s a thoughtful way to cook the farmer’s product,” Holt says.

Holt says he shapes the menu according to available product and also what he likes.

Although he nabs what he can from local farmers, Holt says he buys the “nuts and bolts” from larger commercial suppliers to slash costs. Items like potatoes, onions and garlic are used at high volume so it makes financial sense.

“When I can’t get it from the farmer, I just have to do that,” he says. .

In fact, up to 300 pounds of potatoes per week are needed just for breakfast, Holt says. And in smaller volume dishes such as dessert specials, Holt uses apples from Avila Valley or Jerry’s berries from Rutiz Farms.

“Jerry’s berries are famous,” Holt says, “and I’ve learned a lot about strawberries from him.”

In addition to decadent desserts, a staple plate on the menu—since 1994—offers a veggie combination surprise. Dubbed by Holt as “The Hippie Plate,” it’s a scatter plot of local, in-season vegetables cooked to draw out succulence.

“It’s my job to make sure people taste the difference between commercial broccoli and local, sustainable broccoli— or why bother to go get the good stuff?” he says.

Holt says he believes you become a better person after “playing in the dirt.”

And Jerry Rutiz knows a little something about that.

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New Face of the Crops Unit Story by Carrie Isaacson If you drive through Cal Poly’s Highland entrance today, you see grass covering the hills and the tops of citrus trees, only hinting at an agricultural presence on campus. But imagine driving onto campus and knowing you had just arrived at one of the top agriculture schools in the nation. What would you see? Rows of grapes? Beautifully landscaped terraces? Fields of crops?

The Cal Poly Horticulture and Crop Science Department hopes that you will soon be able to see all this and more.

The College of Agriculture Food and Environmental Sciences and the Horticulture and Crop Science Department are working on plans to revamp the crops unit, pilot winery, organic farm and horticulture unit. The goal of this remodel is to modernize the educational experiences at Cal Poly and to draw more students into the program.

The buildings currently making up the horticulture and crop science units date back to the 1950s and can no longer meet the needs of the department. The wine and viticulture program has long since out grown its pilot winery and the organic farm needs more space in order to be more accessible to the public.

“Better facilities will provide better opportunities for students,” said Dr. David Wehner, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.

As the industry evolves, students need to be given the opportunities to learn on the same equipment they will use when they enter the industry after graduation.

“If we want to train leaders they need cutting edge facilities. They need Ag Circle 8

to be able to do and lead,” said Dr. John Petersen, the Horticulture and Crop Science department head.

The new facilities will also include a farm market, located near Highland Drive and Mount Bishop Road. The farm market will sell not just products from the horticulture and crop science units, but products from all agriculture departments within the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. Merchandise from the organic farm, Poly Plant Shop, the Cal Poly Dairy and the meat science lab will combine to make a one stop shopping experience.

The farm market will provide students the opportunity to be involved with every step of the production process, from planting to marketing.

“Students planting, growing, harvesting, selling. That’s the goal,” said Petersen.

Another goal of the farm market is to provide more interaction between the agricultural community on campus and the general public.

“We also hope that the farm market will help bring back what we lost when our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) stopped,” said Dr. Mark Shelton, Assistant Dean of Farm Operations within the college.

The CSA was a huge part of the college’s image with the public. When the program was shut down due to budget constraints this past summer, the College of Agriculture’s presence in the community decreased.

Another focal point of the remodel will be the Highland Entrance. Currently, the entrance does not showcase Cal Poly’s

Learn by Doing philosophy for any of the colleges on campus.

“As time goes on, the Highland entrance is going to become the main entrance to Cal Poly due to growth. Right now when you drive through the Highland Entrance, you don’t have a sense of arrival until you reach the Engineering Building.

We need to bump that back to the actual entrance,” said Petersen.

Plans for the Highland Entrance include terraces landscaped with California native and Mediterranean plants, fruit and vegetable crops, as well as grapes, visible to anyone coming onto campus. The organic farm will also be moved closer to Highland Drive in order to showcase the campus’s dedication to sustainability. When the project is completed, the new crops unit will be the centerpiece for the entire College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.

While the plans and schematics for the new units have been drawn up, the date of the groundbreaking is completely reliant on funding. Those involved hope for the project to be completed in the next five to seven years so students can start reaping the benefits of the modern facilities as soon as possible.

No matter when the project is complete, the revamped units will attract more students to Cal Poly and provide the best educational opportunities possible.

It will change the way the public and the industry views Cal Poly and the College of Agriculture in a positive way and continue to help students learn by doing and become leaders.

return to freedom

Story by John Reveles

Lompoc California has been called the “valley of flowers” and “the windy valley” but when the dust settles and you look up into the hills you will find wild mustangs. Return to Freedom American Wild Horse Sanctuary (RTF) was created in 1997 and is located approximately 10 miles outside of Lompoc. It was founded by Neda DeMayo who became passionate about helping wild horses after reading about the harsh conditions they sometimes experience. The sanctuary spans over 310 acres of rolling hills.

“We currently provide refuge for more than 245 horses and 26 burros in California and have recently rescued 34.”

In 1971 the Wild Free Roaming Horses and Burro Act became a law and as a result the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) became the overseer of the wellbeing and ultimately, the fate of wild horses and burros.

“The BLM was mandated to manage the wild horses found on BLM lands in a multiple use management policy. Livestock populations are managed by grazing permits, wildlife with hunting permits, and horses with capture, removal, and adoption,” DeMayo said. “Wherever horses were found to roam on BLM lands prior to the ACT in 1971 they were determined as Herd Areas (HAs) and within the HAs they created Herd Management Areas (HMAs). These areas are designated principally, but not exclusively, for wild horses and burros and originally totaled 306 HMAs spanning over 42 million acres out of 234 million acres of our public Lands managed by BLM. Today, these HMAs have been reduced to about 186 HMAs on less than 34 million acres where the horses continue to be outnumbered by at least 100 to 1 by livestock grazing.”

Two hundred and four million acres of public lands are managed by the BLM, which contains 306 HMA’s that span over 42 million acres.

Since wild horses do not profit anyone, these animals are sometimes considered free loaders.

Without the sentiments of individuals and their love for wild horses, many would have already been

relocated or terminated.

“Without the diligent support of the public, the horses would have all but been removed,” DeMayo said.

RTF holds an annual fundraiser to help with the rising costs of horse management. The last event was Spirit of the Horse held on September 25, 2010.

Many came to show support toward the plight of the wild mustang. People in attendance included celebrities Robert Gossett from The Closer and super model Tatjana Patitz. The event included vendors, music and dance, equine demonstrations, and a silent auction, all while attendees enjoyed the specialties of local food and wine. RTF welcomes sponsorships and vendors.

RTF also offers several educational programs and retreats. Come as an individual or group to enjoy the open atmosphere and walk among the horses with the living history tours. Youth programs allow children to learn the basics of general horse care.

For more advanced coursework, Neda offers specialized clinics, in identifying individual horse communication and herd language, health workshops and equine stress reduction. RTF also offers group retreats to hike, walk, and meditate among the horses. Volunteer opportunities afre available in the work study program where individuals can live on the ranch interact with the horses on a daily basis.

While working on outside projects, such as the movie Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, DeMayo has helped raise awareness on the plight of wild horses. Viggo Mortensen (starred in Hidalgo, G.I. Jane, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy) can be seen on the RTF website in a public announcement on behalf of the cause.

“I am involved in the development of various projects,” DeMayo says. “Our current sanctuary is overcrowded and we are on the brink of expanding our sanctuary to a larger piece of land.”

With this all star team of celebrities and with continued support and funding her next major goal is to create a National Wild Horse Preserve.

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new cal poly president

Jefferey Armstrong Story by Jennifer Ray

After more than one year of searching for President Warren J. Baker’s successor, the Board of Trustees selected Dr. Jeffrey Armstrong to serve as the President of California Polytechnic State University. President Baker retired in December of 2009 after serving Cal Poly for 31 years. On February 1, 2011, Dr. Jeffrey Armstrong began his term as the ninth university president.

Dr. Armstrong came to Cal Poly from Michigan State University where he served as the dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and a professor of Animal Science. Armstrong was raised on a beef cattle, swine and tobacco farm in western Kentucky. His background, involvement, research, and many accomplishments all demonstrate a strong passion for agriculture. Cal Poly students were able to show Dr. Armstrong their own passion for agriculture at the World Ag Expo.

Students represented Cal Poly on all three days of the 2011World Ag Expo.

The Expo is an international exposition in Tulare, California that brings together the

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most innovative agriculture technology and influential industry leaders. Cal Poly was represented in the Ag Education Building by the Cal Poly Agriculture Ambassador’s booth. The Agriculture Ambassador club is made up of student ambassadors who promote higher education, agriculture, and Cal Poly. Ag Ambassadors gave out yellow “I Love Cal Poly” stickers to all visitors and green “Alumni” badges to the proud alumni.

Students spoke to hundreds of visitors on behalf of the College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences. The World Ag Expo is always a great opportunity for Ag Ambassadors to showcase Cal Poly programs and student accomplishments.

This year was certainly no exception.

Dr. Armstrong and his wife, Sharon, visited the Cal Poly Agriculture Ambassador booth. They spoke with students, faculty, and alumni. Alexa Stanton, President of Ag Ambassadors, said “Dr. Armstrong was very sociable and down to earth. You can tell he really cares a lot about Cal Poly and the students.”

Advisor, Dr. Ben Burgoa, said he

was “impressed that [Armstrong] spent so much time talking to the students. He was sincerely interested in getting to know them and thankful for their hard work.”

Dr. Armstrong and his wife Sharron Armstrong were also interested to learn from the students. Sharron asked questions about Cal Poly, the town of San Luis Obispo, and the state of California.

The couple had only recently moved across the country and she was curious to gain local knowledge. The Armstrongs have been working hard to get settled into the SLO life and have already become a part of the Cal Poly community.

The World Ag Expo visit demonstrates President Armstrong’s sincere commitment to the Cal Poly students, faculty, and community.

The College of Agriculture Food and Environmental Sciences is excited to welcome President Armstrong and Sharron Armstrong and looks forward to this new era of leadership.

Cal Poly joins AAW Fly-In Story by Krista Scarbough Cal Poly agribusiness senior Katharine Rosser joined the leaders of American Agri-Women (AAW) to connect with consumers and policy makers at the 25th Annual AAW Fly- in, held in Washington D.C. Rosser, representing the Kappa Chapter of Sigma Alpha and California Women in Ag, was among the 45 women who participated in Fly- in. Rosser was selected to receive a National Sigma Alpha Scholarship Foundation Scholarship to attend the event. She was the sole representative from the state of California.

During the week long event, women from throughout the country met with members of Congress, as well as officials from the US Department of Agriculture, US Department of Interior, and the Environmental Protection Agency.

AAW members were updated on immigration legislation by Craig Regelbrugge, co-chair of the Agriculture Coalition for Immigration Reform. They were also briefed by Deputy Secretary

Kathleen Merrigan concerning the Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food Initiative.

Other topics discussed included Homeland Security and Emergency Coordination, Food Safety, and Animal Welfare.

AAW also brought their policy positions to their Congressmen and Senators. The primary issues addressed included agriculture jobs legislation, antibiotic use in animal agriculture; Clean Water Act, energy and climate change legislation, ESA reform, food safety, wilderness area expansion, and horse slaughter.

American Agri-Women is the national coalition of farm, ranch, and agribusiness women's organizations.

The AAW national website describes the organization as serving as a communications link for those who join the coalition. Members work on national issues of mutual interest and concern, and a national convention is held annually to discuss and take action on those concerns.

American Agri-Women works in areas

of legislation, regulations, consumer relations, promotion, and education. By working together effectively, American Agri-Women can magnify its political influence and members can educate consumers and school children concerning the needs of agriculture. Many are consumers as well as producers and have a unique point of view to offer.� For more information about the 58 national affiliate organizations, visit http:// americanagriwomen.org. AAW is a partner with Sigma Alpha, offering professional development opportunities such as the Annual Fly-in.

Sigma Alpha is a professional sorority for women in agriculture. Visit http://sigmaalphacalpoly.org for additional details on Cal Poly’s Kappa Chapter.

Sigma Alpha encourages any women that have a passion or interest in agriculture to join AAW and attend a future Fly-in.

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What’s so Different about San Luis Obispo?

Story by Mary Gavin

The central coast is considered a diamond in the rough. Here in this dreamy place community involvement and environmental enthusiasm towards local agriculture would baffle most city folk.

Especially well known for its progressive spirit is San Luis Obispo, where Cal Poly students invest in the belief that as a population we can do more to be sustainable by relying on each other within a community.

Locavore is a term which describes a person who consumes locally grown produce and products.

This way of life is in congruence with sustainability in that it rejects foods from a distance that expend large amounts of fossil fuels to reach their destination.

Foods that spend a considerable amount of time traveling to their destination are subject to cold storage, which some say can suppress flavor and reduce freshness. Fruits and vegetables that travel just a few miles from where they were picked are undoubtedly better tasting. By having farmers markets, fresh local produce is readily available.

Farmers markets are common here in the central coast. In fact, no matter what day of the week it is, one can be found in the area. Thursday nights are a celebration in downtown San Luis Obispo, where a farmers market is held every week, all year long. If Thursdays aren’t a good night, the newest market is Sunday.

The SLO Certified Farmers Market, held in the Kennedy Club Fitness parking lot every Sunday from 10 am to 1 pm, is one of many locations where delicious, healthy food is available. The produce offered at this

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market travel an average distance of 19.2 miles, thus doing their part in fossil fuel reduction.

The mission is simple.

According to Nick Ryan, a Cal Poly student and market media representative says, “The market aims to provide a place where families and people of all ages can come to get fresh, healthy, local food. It stimulates the economy by providing jobs, supporting the local farmer and creating an experience everyone can enjoy.”

Markets serve the community in a number of ways such as keeping cash in circulation and supporting local businesses. The vendors work hard to bring beneficial products to market week after week, all year long, rain or shine.

The ambiance is always friendly, offering face painting for the kids, live music and weekly raffles. Spend the afternoon with the family outside in the fresh air, stroll the various booths and indulge in pleasurable scents, tastes and sounds.

Weekend visitors of the central coast can enjoy this hidden treasure as well. Not every stand is full of fruit; jewelry, fresh cut flowers and clothing can also be found, all which make great gifts.

The underlying principle here is be good to thy neighbor. Imagine a community that works together to provide food and entertainment for one another. It’s a place where first name basis is standard by the people who sell the oranges, and the girl at the humus stand knows your favorite flavor. It’s all here in lovely San Luis Obispo.

Dusi Family Vineyard Story by Louise Harris

The Dusi family of Paso Robles, California are pioneers in their industry and throughout the Central Coast. They were chosen as the Vintners of the Year for 2010 and honored for their work and dedication to agriculture at the California Mid-State Fair. The Dusi have grown grapes with the same commitment and character as they have raised their family.

In 1910 Sylvester Dusi left the mountains of Italy to make a home and business with his brothers on York Mountain in Templeton, California.

Sylvester later planted two other vineyards, and in the 1950’s with his youngest son Benito, ran a winery and a tasting room on the 80 acre home ranch, just south of Paso Robles adjacent to Highway 101. The vines were headpruned and dry-farmed and still are grown under the same methods today. Sylvester and his wife Caterina welcomed three sons Guido, Dante and Benito who would come to embody the Dusi family spirit.

Dante bought the second vineyard from his father, and continued farming it the way his father had taught him. Today, approximately 20 acres of the original one hundred acres of vines planted in 1945 remain. The old vines produce an average of 35-40 tons per year. Dante, now 85, is still the patriarch of the family. Dante Dusi Vineyards works on trust and honor and therefore does not use contracts; the grapes are simply sold with a handshake.

Four generations assemble in the

field every morning at 6:20 during harvest season. When it comes time to harvest each year, the entire family gathers to pick, drive the tractors, and the great-great grandchildren remove the leaves from the gondolas. Joni Dusi said, “We are a family crew that ranges from 85 to 2 years of age.”

Dante’s son Mike manages the Dante Dusi Vineyard now, though Dante can still be seen working in the vines every morning. Great-granddaughter Janell Dusi started her own label J Dusi Wines which she has marketed throughout the United States.

The Dusis are considered to be some of the first pioneers to plant grapes in Paso Robles, an area that has grown to over 200 vineyards today. It was no surprise when they were awarded the 2010 Vintner of the Year Award by the local wine community. “It was an honor to have been chosen to represent Paso Robles as the Vintners of the Year. It was truly like being in a fairytale. We were all in disbelief with the way our community, the Wine Alliance, and the Mid-State Fair staff was so gracious and so generous in their praise and also their time. It is something we will never forget,” said Joni Dusi.

The Dusi family wishes to be remembered for the high quality of grapes that they grow, their love of the land, and the integrity in the way they do business.

Dusi Vineyards have a reputation

for premium quality grapes. J Dusi Wines are featured at the local wine shop 15 Degrees C. Most of the wines with the Dusi label can be found across the United States, sold in wine shops and featured in certain restaurants. The grapes from the Dante Dusi Vineyard go to J Dusi Wines, Tobin James, Meridian, Turley, Four Vines, Chumeia and Stephen Ross.

Mike Dusi says, “Farming is our passion; the soil, the vines and the weather, and family is what our life is all about.” The Dusi family has been in the grape industry for eighty-five years.

The pride and respect they have for the land, and the enjoyment they get from taking care of their vineyard is the biggest reward of their business.” “The fact that we continue to farm the way our ancestors did, keeping the vineyards dry land, and head pruned, working together as a family, and hearing from people how much they enjoy the wine , are all rewards for getting to do what we do.”

As wine becomes more popular and fashionable throughout the Central Coast it is important to remember the roots of the industry. The Dusi family is founded upon tradition, dedication and a love for agriculture and family. These are the qualities that have made the agricultural industry on the Central Coast so widely recognized. Dusi Vineyards is a landmark of quality, character and family values that will grow for generations to come.

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Cal Poly’s

Western Bonanza

Story by Malorie Bankhead

Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show began as a senior project in 1985 and is now the largest student-run jackpot show in the Western United States.

Western Bonanza 2011 was the work of five student managers, 23 committee chairs, over 80 committee members, and two advisors. With the theme of “You’ve Hit the Jackpot,” Western Bonanza included many great awards, new merchandise, and reached new heights in social media this year. Western Bonanza is one of the most popular jackpot shows in California, and includes exhibitors from other states as well.

Every February, the event is held in Paso Robles, CA over President’s Day weekend. The show has grown to new heights since 1985 when it began as primarily a steer show. Many young people involved in agriculture take their project animals to jackpot shows across the United States to vie for Champion honors, meet up with their friends, or continue a family tradition. They pay for the cost to enter their livestock into a showmanship or a judging class and then compete against others to attempt to win

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a portion of everyone’s entry fee-- hence the name jackpot. The 2011 Western Bonanza rounded out with 469 exhibitors and 1,972 total head entered in the show.

These numbers make Western Bonanza the largest the show has been in four years!

Even though the show only lasts for three days, there are many long months of planning to make the event successful.

The student managers, committee chairs, and committee members use dedication, determination, and work hard during the months previous to the show to secure sponsorships, plan special events for the show and publicize Western Bonanza.

The committees include: Beef, Swine, Sheep, Goats, Publicity and Social Media, Hospitality, Awards, Facilities, and Merchandise. Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza added several new features to the show this year including a Market Heifer division, which is one of the first in a California jackpot show, new division payouts, as well as a blog.

The Barrow Derby, a part of the hog show designated for barrows only, and the exhibitor taco feed went well last year and were continued this year

with great support. This year the sponsor social, which was held on Saturday night, was a huge hit thanks to the work of the Hospitality Committee. Also, for the second year in a row, Western Bonanza went live thanks to the Publicity and Social Media Committee. Each ring is equipped with a camera for the livefeed so that those who are unable to attend show can watch from the comfort of their own home. This year, at the point of highest viewership there were 117 viewers. The committee hopes to continue improving the process next year.

Overall, Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza 2011 was a great success thanks to the outstanding students, supporters, and exhibitors involved. To learn more about Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show check out our website: www.westernbonanza.calpoly.edu. You can also keep up to date with the latest important stories on our blog: www. westernbonanza.blogspot.com. Also find Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza on Facebook and Twitter, too!

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2011 Ag Circle Photo Contest

Finalists

Lindsey Batman Wine and Viticulture

Mark Farr Agrrbuisness

Kinsey Hartong-Redden Agricultural Systems Management

Lauren Moss Agricultural Science

Edith Garcia Agricultural Science

Derick Strain Agricultural Systems Management

Lauren Holmes English

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Morgan Molnar Agricultural Science

Anthony Pannone Agricultural Science

Nicole McDonagh Animal Science

Marin Wolgamott Wine and Viticulture

Alexa Milman Biology

Melinda Bower Animal Science

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Adelaide Dyer Agricultural Science

Roxy Smith Animal Science

Taylor Serres Wine and Viticulture

Taylor Feezor Agribusiness

Nicole Ghidinelli Agribusiness

Kirsti Whitmyre Agricultural Science

Lauren Carminati Agricultural Science

Through the eyes of a first time attendee...

Article by Sam Salfiti Ring! Ring! Ring! As the alarm clock sounded, before the birds had a chance to start chirping, I began my long awaited journey. It was February 9th , 2011, and the World Ag Expo was making its 44th appearance in Tulare, California. As I was attending for the first time, I had no idea what to expect. I am from San Francisco, and my agriculture background was lacking. Although my interest in agriculture was growing, I still did not know a lot about the expo. As I continuously read the signs on the side of the road indicating the mileage to Tulare, I grew more anxious about my arrival.

As I took the last turnoff, coming off of Highway 99, I could not help but be surprised by the number of police officers directing traffic. Based on the organized chaos, I knew the World Ag Expo was going to be an unforgettable event.

As I approached the front gates, I met up with a few friends that were also in attendance. When I entered, I could feel the sweat drip down my face; I didn’t Ag Circle 22

know if this was from the excitement of being at the show or if it was from the gleaming light that was continuously shining on my pale skin. As I looked up after taking my first step on the dirt ground, I realized why this show was so incredible. “With 2.6 million square feet of show grounds and 1,600 exhibitors, World Ag Expo is an industry leader in agriculture expositions. Attracting an annual average of 100,000 attendees, this three day expo transforms Tulare, California into the World’s hot spot for agriculture technology and innovation.”

The place was huge! Companies ranging from John Deere to individual wood workers were presenting their “masterpieces.” As I wandered aimlessly through the entire expo, I saw a huge sign that read, “Rain for Rent.” My curiosity grew, and my natural instincts took me over that way. Their regional marketing manager, Chris Daines, immediately greeted me. As we began speaking about the company, he stated, “Rain for Rent is

an Industrial Liquid Handling company.

We provide solutions to water handling, irrigations, and other related liquid storage problems.” My interest grew further. Next, I wanted to know how the company got started. “Rain for Rent took off with the ag boom in the central valley. Since then, over 51 branch offices have been opened.”

I was surprised that I have never heard of such a dominate company in Agriculture.

I continued to ask Chris questions, and he closed by saying, “The World Ag Expo is a place where we come to say hello to old friends, to meet prospective clients, and to fix problems and solve problems related to issues and the designing of certain systems. It provides a chance for us to get our face out there and still remind people we are still in business.”

Leaving Rain for Rent, I came across another sign entitled, “Custom Built Bars, Furniture, Fountains & Gifts.”

Again, I had to check out the scene. Barrel Barn, a Log Furniture and Cabin Décor cutting store, had so many attractive

and unique pieces. The owner of Barrel Barn, B.J. Rummerfield, was extremely passionate about his work. He has been in the business for more than nine years, and he makes an annual appearance at the Ag Expo. He was very knowledgeable about his company and the Expo. When asked what attracted him most about the Ag Expo, he explained, “The Ag Expo is a closed show. It is a place where I get to share my products, but offers a chance to see other people’s new innovations.” After hearing his response, I could not only help to wonder how he got started with his company. “I have been interested in wood working for years. With the economy being at a downfall, I wanted to stabilize my income. What better way then doing something you love. This is my life.”

Woodworking is not easy. It is a skill that takes significant practice and time. I was so impressed with his work that I asked for a business card in order to purchase a few pieces.

As I continued on my journey, I realized quickly that the main products of the show consisted of Farming Equipment and Accessories. Only later did I learn that this category was number one in the Top 10 product categories of interest. Tractors

and irrigation closely followed. In 2010, a survey was taken to account for the demographic information of the registered attendees at the expo. Results from the WAE Attendee Demographics showed that, “71% of Attendees are directly involved with agriculture production or an allied industry.” This is a huge portion of the expo and shows how important it is to agriculture related companies and individuals with agricultural interests.

Next, the survey results state that “70% attend every year and select World Ag Expo as the only Tradeshow they attend.”

This speaks for itself. The World Ag Expo is a dominant force that helps drive new ideas to farmers, local producers, and individuals who want to learn more about agriculture.

After a long day, my ears were bombarded by a loud growling noise. I knew it was time to eat. Looking to my left, I saw smoke rising at an incredibly fast rate. I knew that this had to be the food department. As I wandered without direction, I finally arrived. The food selection was amazing. I decided to try a tri-tip sandwich. Being a huge fan of the tri-tip sandwiches on Cal Poly’s campus and of San Luis Obispo’s famous

Firestone tri-tip, I hoped that I wouldn’t be disappointed. The first bite was all bread. However, the second bite was mouthwatering. The crunchy, fresh, French roll was softened by the meat juice.

Although the slices were thin, they loaded the meat onto the roll; the meat itself was cooked just right. The juice slowly dripped down my napkin onto the upper half of my shirt. Then, I noticed it continually dripped to the latter half. Before I knew it, the best tasting tri-tip sandwich that I had ever had was gone. As the sweat continued to drip down my face, I didn’t know if the drops were tears of sadness over the sandwich being gone or if it was from the rays of the sun constantly blazing against my skin.

The drive back took a small turn for the worst. Literally. Getting lost on highway 46 is no fun. The twists and bends of the road seemed never ending.

My stomach was aching from all the movement, and my vision was getting blurry. As the mileage on the signs decreased, and the sun began to set, I was greatly disappointed that this day had to come to an end. However, my excitement grew knowing that I will be able to attend next year as February rolls around.

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Brock Center for Agricultural Communication 1 Grand Avenue San Luis Obispo, California 93407