2011-01-28
Find Out What's New in the Beef Show!
This week I talked to some of the members of the beef committee of Western Bonanza and I would like to share with you some of the things they told me:
Denni had mentioned she thinks Bonanza is a great show to gain experience for the younger showmen. She had also brought up that this year there will be some new check-in gates for the beef rings so everyone showing will have to check in prior to going in the show ring in order for the show to be more organized and run smoothly.
Ian stated that the beef rings will be set up a little differently this year so it will be more accessible for both the people showing as well as viewing.
This is Emily’s first year working at Western Bonanza and she is excited to make friends and connections for the future as well as seeing all the hard work that has been put into Bonanza pay off in the end.
Alex is one of the beef committee chairs and he is hoping we have a successful beef show just like last years. He is also hoping to bring in more money from the show so we can give out better awards in the upcoming years. Lastly, he says this is an experience that our whole class can share since it is one of the best weekends that is never forgotten.
-Gina
2011-01-27
Tough Enough to Wear Pink Day!
I had the chance to meet with the Beef Committee and they gave me some great insight on this year’s Western Bonanza! This year we have a few new additions. The first being a new Market Heifer show has been added to the Beef Show. Also we would love for everyone to join in on Saturday February 19 for Tough Enough to Wear Pink Day! This will support cancer awareness, education, and research, so please remember to pack a pink shirt for Saturday, whether you are male or female! Our goal is to turn all of Western Bonanza Pink!
We hope that everyone enjoys the show and we are all proud to be apart of the largest jackpot show in the Western United States. Some of us have had the chance to show while others have not. Therefore, through this wonderful show we get the reward of seeing happy exhibitors showing high quality animals!
Ashley
2011-01-26
Learn More About the Committees!
Merchandise Update
Committee chairs: Amy Brooks and Shelby Sisk
Before you head out to Bonanza, be sure to check out the committee‟s video on FaceBook! Then, when you get to Bonanza and stroll through the tradeshow building, don‟t forget to stop at chat talk with vendors. Also be sure to find the mobile cart outside and stop by. There you can buy either Bonanza or Cal Poly merchandise, including T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, thermals, hats and Texas Hold „em playing cards. Apparel features five new designs in assorted colors.
Facilities Update
Manager: Blake Dunlap
Committee chairs: Jason Mendes and Max Panziera
New this year: To ease the flow of traffic, trailers are welcome to park in the Pioneer Museum parking lot.
Also, new signs are being made which will smooth entry and exit to and from the event center.
Attention: Beef exhibitors will notice weigh stations have been relocated. Scales will have a new setting, with less angles, so it‟s a straight shot all the way. The chairmen say the design “will be more efficient resulting in less chaos.” In addition to shaking things up in the beef exhibition arena, the sheep scales have been taken from behind the restrooms and situated next to the sheep stalls and chicken coops. All moves have been made to ease traffic, whether foot or vehicular.
New this year. . . Facilities decided to implement a release form policy. Dunlap said last year too many stalls were unkempt. So now before departure from the event center you have to follow a checklist of duties. Instead of leaving it dirty, you check-check-check, facilities says yay or nay, and off you go, or don‟t. The policy really helps Monday‟s cleanup crew. And trust me they appreciate it.
Awards Update
Committee chairs: Caitlin Walker and Kate Tscharner
The committee is excited to announce three changes:
1) Prizes this year include USB drives, girft cards and duffel bags
2) In Divisions, place first or second and receive a special placard.
3) Colors for Show A are red and black, which follow the Casino Jackpot theme. Show B colors are green and gold, representing Cal Poly.
* As usual, showmanship champs win buckles.
Had a good time talking with the different crews. They discuss ideas and seem to get things done. You gotta check out the FaceBook page for more info. Notice the many additions that make sending and receiving information a two way superhighway. Join the conversation. Enter into the photo contest. Again, find it all on Facebook!
Adios compadres,
Anthony P.
2011-01-24
What WE expect from Western Bonanza!
I hope everyone is getting excited, I know I am! If I had to choose one word to sum up what I expect from Bonanza this year it is GREATNESS. We have a great Management Team and a group of hard working and dedicated students who are all ready and willing to make this year and even bigger success than ever before. We have some really great sponsors who are proof that no matter what state the economy may be in there are generous people in the community that care about youths education in relation to agriculture. Lastly, I expect to have more entries than ever before. Without participants this show couldn’t happen, and we are so thankful for everyone who wants to come out Presidents Day Weekend and see what we are all about!
On a more personal level, I expect to learn a lot about how to run a livestock show and more specifically I would love to learn more about the livestock themselves—particularly sheep! Also, as a part of the Media and Publicity Committee my goal is to make it easily accessible for anyone interested in the show—both near and far—to feel informed about everything that is going on. I am so excited for the greatness that is sure to come!
Thanks!
Adriene
2011-01-23
What WE expect from Western Bonanza!
So because I am a complete Bonanza newbie I really have NO idea what to expect out of it. But I can tell you that I hope to see the media committee grow and become a larger part of Bonanza this year and for many more years to come. Malorie and Luke have fantastic ideas on how to get YOU (the viewers) involved in the entire Bonanza process. With this blog, the Bonanza Facebook page, the photo contest and the awesome Livestream videos you can see exactly what goes into making Bonanza, well, Bonanza!
~Erin
Hello Western Bonanza buddies!
Western Bonanza is just a few days under a month away. I couldn’t be more excited! This year I hope that our available media, activities, and information are leaping over your expectations. We as a “Media and Publicity” group are brainstorming better and brighter plans for this year in hopes that we step up our game and take your Western Bonanza experience to the limits!
I want the participating members to get the most out of this year’s Western Bonanza, but I would like to “feel the heat!” By heat, I mean you as livestock lovers. I want to help light that fire under your chairs and get everyone thrilled for February 19th. I hope that all the planning and excitement for this year gets me pumped up for the fast paced weekend at hand. I want everyone to have a great time,but most of all I want to make sure all of our goals are accomplished. When that happens, we will all burn bright as a Media and Publicity group. Fans, friends, and members, lets start the fire and light the way to Western Bonanza!
~Stephanie
2011-01-22
What WE expect from Western Bonanza!
The 2011 Western Bonanza is quickly approaching and I am excited for what this year will hold for our participants, their supporters and for those of us who are putting the on the show.
So what are my expectations for the 2011 Western Bonanza?
Based on the years past, I’m looking forward to seeing top quality animas exhibited by skilled showmen within all the species. I know you, as exhibitors, devote countless hours in preparing for your shows; it’s a privilege to see your dedication exhibited in the show ring! I also expect that many of the people involved in Bonanza, from exhibitors to sponsors, will take advantage of the opportunity to be involved with Bonanza prior to the show. This being possible through our website, blog, and our First Annual Photo Contest! We hope these resources allow you to get to know us, understand our excitement for this event, and be a part preparing for the 2011 Western Bonanza!
Talk to you soon ~
Cortney Newby
Hi all,
As we get closer to the 3rd weekend in February, I feel like the Media team is getting closer as well. We have had some GREAT brainstorming meetings and we have a group that is innovative and ready to make everyone feel as though they have hit the jackpot at Bonanza this year! I am looking forward to seeing all of the new ways that our team will bring Bonanza to YOU--whether you are a Cal Poly student, a Bonanza competitor, or visitor who has never been to a single livestock show before. The class is now working in separate, concentrated committees and I can’t wait to see how we all come together to make the show happen in what will soon be just a couple of weeks. We’ll keep working hard, we know all of you exhibitors are too!
God Bless America,
Carolyn Madson
Western Bonanza Media Team
2011-01-20
Meet Megan Brownell!
Meet Shannon Aguilar, Guest Speaker
It's Thursday, so you know what that means! We have Western Bonanza class tonight, which means we will be livestreaming the class for you to see! Tonight's guest speakers are Miss Shannon Aguilar and Miss Megan Brownell. In this blog post we have Miss Aguilar's biography for you to enjoy! Don't forget to log onto our Livestream Channel around 6:15pm Pacific Time so you can see what we see as the Western Bonanza class. Tuning into this sight will also help us gain unlimited viewership for our Livestream for Western Bonanza weekend!
Shannon grew up in Somis, California where she was an active 4H member for 10 years. She showed cattle at Western Bonanza in 2003 and 2004.
Shannon received her BS in Ag Business from Cal Poly in 2008. She received her Single Subject and Specialized Ag Credential in 2010 from Cal Poly and is currently working on completing her Masters Degree in Ag Education. She currently is teaching Agriculture at Salinas High School.
At Cal Poly Shannon was involved in many enterprises such as the Bull Test, Swanton Pacific Ranch and the Escuela Cow Calf Enterprise. She was President of the Cal Poly Young Cattlemen’s Club and was a State Officer in the California Young Cattlemen’s Association.
Shannon was another “Western Bonanza Lifer”. She was on the Western Bonanza Team from 2005 to 2009 and was the Intern and General Manager with Wyatt Scott in 2009. Shannon was very involved in helping Bonanza become more efficient and more professional by mentoring many Entry Committee Chairmen during her time with the program.
We hope that you will tune in to see her and Megan tonight! Miss Brownell's bio is coming soon!
Much Enthusiasm,
Malorie Bankhead
Social Media and Publicity Chair
Learn What WE Expect Out of Western Bonanza!
My hopes for this year’s Western Bonanza are that I would like to see entry numbers surpass previous years along with receive more sponsors. Sponsors are a big part in making Bonanza come together. I would also like to see us improve the live stream video so that everyone can join in on the fun at this year’s show. Being that I do not have a background in video production I hope I will come out of Bonanza feeling confident with the process. As well as advance my skills in advertising and networking. I have shown at Bonanza for many years and I am glad to be behind the scenes putting on a great show for others to enjoy!
2011-01-19
Learn What WE Expect Out of Western Bonanza!
I hope all of you are getting as excited about Bonanza as I am! Let me tell you a little bit about what I’m looking forward to for February…
First of all, I hope that we see more entries into the show than we have ever seen. The key to keeping Bonanza successful will always be having as many enthusiastic participants as possible! And I also think having more participants than ever before will say something about the agricultural community as a whole… the future will continue to be promising!
I also want to see an abundance of sponsorships present for Bonanza this year. The more help we get from our sponsors, the bigger and better Bonanza will be in the future. I think it is very important for successful people in the agriculture industry to have a part in the education of our future industry leaders. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of Western Bonanza you can print out and mail in our donor form here!
Bonanza is a great place to meet new people with similar interests, and I see it continuing to be a resource for newcomers, like myself. I’m sure we will all work cohesively to put on a great event!
On a more personal note, I’m excited to learn more about the livestock with which I have less experience (like the hogs!). That’s right--you, the participants, will be educating me! I am looking forward to interacting with all of you and learning as I go along.
Keep checking into the blog, as well as the Facebook page, to get updates on how the process is moving along! And don’t be afraid to give us feedback on how we’re progressing—we love to hear it!
I can’t wait to see everyone’s hard work play out in February!
Yours Truly,
Allison Grayson
Excellence—that’s what I expect at Western Bonanza. As part of the Publicity and Media team, I will use my skills to gather and present information in fun and interesting forms. I hope team members look for peculiar, original angles while covering the different events; finding the story means thinking outside the box. I consider myself a representative of the agricultural world, so it’s my job to show everyone what Bonanza, both in front of and behind the scenes, is all about.
You know, this is my first livestock judging show. In fact, couldn’t tell you the first thing about showing sheep or manicuring cattle, except you gotta keep them healthy. But I know how to deliver all that information once I’ve talked and listened and written it down—which is what I love to do. On the day of the event, I suppose my reporting and technological, skills will be put to the test. In the meantime, my team works to offer a never-before-seen experience, one that will go down in the books as the best Bonanza ever.
T-minus 31 days . . .
Adios Compadres,
Anthony P.
Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee
My name is Erin Vickerman and I am a second year Ag Business major at Cal Poly. Until I came to Poly, I had been more of a city girl, only having lived in the Bay area, actually San Carlos to be exact. With that said, I didn't know too much about Agriculture until I came here. But I have come to absolutely love Agriculture! I have even become a regular at the Grad on Thursday nights for line dancing.
~Erin
2011-01-18
"Thanks for the Memories" Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest
Facebook Photo Contest
Step 1: Become a fan of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show on Facebook.
Step 2: Upload your photo to the Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show Facebook page showcasing how you, as a Western Bonanza exhibitor, are involved in the jackpot.
Step 3: Share with fellow Western Bonanza exhibitors in the contest and vote for your favorites! Below are the rules and guidelines for the contest! Most importantly, have fun and enjoy what Western Bonanza has to offer!
Rules/Guidelines:
1. This is a photo contest to promote the involvement of today's youth in the livestock industry. These photos will appear to all visitors of the Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook fan page. All photos are subject to removal and disqualification if found inappropriate to the contest.
2. In order to participate in this contest, you MUST become a fan of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza on Facebook.
3. A limit of one photo per fan may be submitted to the contest.
4. The deadline to submit photos is February 8, 2011 at midnight.
5. The photos will be open to voting after February 8, 2011 at midnight. Voting will be open through midnight on February 17, 2011.
6. The method of voting takes place by 'liking' the photos in the photo contest folder ONLY. An administrator of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook page will move the photos for the contest from the wall into the appropriate folder. "Likes" of photos in the contest which are posted on Cal Poly's Western Bonanza wall will NOT be counted as votes. Comments can be submitted, but they will not be weighed in the judging of the photos. The winners will be determined strictly by the number of "likes". Upon a tie, the Social Media and Publicity Committee will choose a winner.
7. On the first day of Western Bonanza, February 18, 2011, the winners of the photo contest will be announced.
NOTICE: All photos, once submitted to the Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook page, become property of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza. By uploading your photo, you give the members of the Western Bonanza management team permission to use your photo in any promotional event, blog, or other educational activity regarding Cal Poly's Western Bonanza.
Prizes:
1st: Your photo will become Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook profile picture for one week and also in the Western Bonanza blog post on President's Day! Your photo will also appear in the Western Bonanza newsletter, and possibly appear around the show during Western Bonanza weekend. The winner of the contest will also receive a piece of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza merchandise.
2nd: The 2nd place winner will receive a piece of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza merchandise and also appear in Cal Poly's Western Bonanza blog post on February 22, 2011.
3rd: The 3rd place winner will receive a piece of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza merchandise and appear in Cal Poly's Western Bonanza blog post on February 23, 2011! After the winners are determined, they will be contacted by the Chairperson of the Social Media and Publicity Committee.
We hope you will join us in celebrating the memories that make Western Bonanza the "Best in the West!"
Cheers,
Malorie Bankhead
Social Media and Publicity Committee Chair
2011-01-17
Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee
My name is Allison Grayson. I’m a second year Journalism major at Cal Poly, with a concentration in Public Relations. In addition to my major, I am also working on minors in both Agricultural Communications and Equine Science. Although I decided to go with the Journalism major to hone in on my media skills, I love finding ways to integrate my passion for agriculture into my work in the department.
I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, where I was involved in the equine side of 4-H. Even though I did not show livestock myself, I loved going to the livestock portions of the shows to see how it all worked. I was transferred to Davis, California by the military life during my high school years; and during that time I took a break from 4-H to pursue Class A equine shows. I was still able to further my interest in livestock, though, being that my dad is a large animal veterinarian.
At Cal Poly I have been able to be a member of the Beef Cattle Stocker Enterprise at Cal Poly’s own Swanton Pacific Ranch. And it was through that experience that I learned a lot about raising beef cattle.
I am very excited to be a part of Western Bonanza, not only to learn more about livestock shows, but also to work with the participants and sponsors. Without you, there would be no show!
On behalf of the Social Media and Publicity Committee, we want you to know that we want this year to be the most successful year yet for Western Bonanza—so feel free to send us feedback on how we’re doing! And keep checking into our blog and our Facebook for updates!
See you in February!
Allison Grayson
Hey everybody,
My name is Carolyn Madson and I am a member of the 2011 Bonanza Media & Publicity team! I'm in my second year at Cal Poly and am majoring in Agricultural Science. I grew up on a cow/calf operation here on the Central Coast and am absolutely loving the opportunity to pursue a career in the ag industry at such a fine university. This is my first year being involved with our livestock show and I am so excited to be a part of something that has such a large positive impact--I believe that shows like Western Bonanza provide their competitors with memories and experiences that help them both in and out of the show ring. I showed hogs, beef cattle, and rodeo'd growing up and can't wait to get back in the animal barns!
As you get ready for the big weekend in February don't forget to stay tuned to the various Bonanza links the Media team has going!
We'll see you soon!
Carolyn
2011-01-16
Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee
My name is Ashley Coffey and I am an Animal Science major and focusing on a minor in Agribusiness at Cal Poly. I was born and raised in Napa, CA. I recently transferred from Santa Rosa Junior College. This is my first year with Western Bonanza and I am on the Publicity and Social Media Committee. I am very excited to be involved with this show as it is one of my greater passions in life. I was heavily involved in 4-H throughout my childhood. I showed 3 years of hogs and for the past 10 years I have shown cattle. Within the ten years of showing cattle I have achieved one of my greater accomplishments…winning Champion AOB Female at Cow Palace in 2006. This was with my own Bred and Owned heifer. This heifer was the foundation for my own show cattle herd; I developed this herd to raise quality show animals.
Sincerely,
Ashley
Hi there!
My name is Adriene Henderson, I am a fourth year journalism and public relations major. However, my true passion lies within my minor which is agricultural communications. Both of my parents come from long lines of Minnesota farmers and ranchers, and although I grew up 2,000 miles away from my farm it is without doubt my favorite place on earth. I have been surrounded by agriculture and livestock for as long as I can remember, and not a day goes by that I don’t appreciate their importance. Although I never showed livestock myself, the dedication and competition is fascinating to me.
I have a strong skill set surrounding event planning and public relations work. During my studies as a journalism student I have be introduced to the world of the media, and as a public relations student I have developed skills to communicate with the media as well as various publics. I have a strong background in event planning from my work with the American Cancer Society organizing and running Cal Poly’s Relay for Life as an event chair. I am interning with UC Cooperative Extensions working with their farm advisors and the 4-H program and I love every minute of it. I am very excited to bring my communications knowledge and skills to Western Bonanza but even more so I am excited for all that I will be able to learn surrounding the livestock side of the event!
Thanks!
Adriene
2011-01-15
Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee
My name is Gina Cirimele and this is my first year at Cal Poly. I transferred after two years at the Santa Rosa Junior College. My major is animal science with a minor in ag business. I’m originally from Sonoma, CA and I grew up with exposure to horses but I got mainly involved in agriculture and showing livestock during my first year in high school. I was an active member of Sonoma FFA and Sonoma 4-H. I started out showing exhibition poultry, market swine and then market steers until I graduated.
See you soon!
Gina Cirimele
What’s up everybody?!
The name’s Anthony J. Pannone. I’m part of the 2011 Western Bonanza Publicity and Media team, and I want to tell ya a lil’ bit ‘bout myself. Was born in California, lived in So Cal but moved to Anchorage, Alaska, when I was nine. Then at fifteen moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where I finished high school. After high school for two years I attended Seward County Community College in Liberal, Kansas, where I played baseball. Fast forward . . . This is my final year as an undergraduate student at Cal Poly. My major is agricultural science, with a concentration in animal science, and an emphasis in communications, more specifically writing. In fact I love to write, and am an aspiring philologist (one who studies language). While I dub myself a backpack journalist, I’m so much more!
In what seems a previous life, I played professional baseball for the SF Giants organization. After graduating from Seward County I chased my dream to play Major League baseball. For five-and-a-half years I paid my dues in the minor leagues, traveling from here to there and back again. Boy what an experience! I made it all the way to the Triple-A level before succumbing to a shoulder injury. When that happened I faced the decision of my life—whether to continue playing ball or finish college—I chose option B and here I am, neck deep in the awesome world of agriculture. You see, I eat, therefore I care about the who, what, where, why and how food arrives on my plate. That’s right, like you, like everybody on this earth, I’m connected to the farmers who plow, the cows that moo, and the cotton that’s harvested—and if I forgot someone or something then I apologize: Thank You to everyone involved in providing the world with food and fiber.
I look forward to a prosperous Bonanza!
Adios compadres,
A.J. Pannone
2011-01-13
Meet Shauna Trusas
It's Thursday, which means that we have Western Bonanza class this evening! Usually the Western Bonanza class meets twice a week. Tuesday nights are for committee work where each student meets with their committee to plan specifics for Western Bonanza weekend. Thursday nights the students meet as a whole and hear from various guest speakers who come to our class. In addition to our BRAND NEW blog this year, we will also have BRAND NEW Livestream broadcasting of our guest speakers! This year the Social Media and Publicity Committee aims to include you as Western Bonanza exhibitors and supports in the events leading up to Western Bonanza weekend! Each Thursday our guest speaker's biography will be posted on this blog. You can learn a little bit about the speaker and then tune into the Livestream during our class to hear what message they have to share! Our first speaker this week is Shauna Trusas, a "Western Bonanza Lifer".
*****
Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee
My name is Stephanie Conroy and I am excited to be member of the Western Bonanza team for 2011. I’d like to tell you just a little about myself. I grew up in a Southern California city where all there was to see was cars and overpriced stores. In 8th grade I moved, and it was a complete 180. This place opened my eyes to agriculture and it can be considered the reason why I’m here serving you today.
I started out showing sheep at my county fair. I did this for 4 years. Now I get to be the girl behind the scenes bringing Western Bonanza to you first hand! I’m an Agriculture Science major with a passion for informing the people and helping animals. I still have at least two more years and hope to continue helping with this trend-setting jackpot show. I look forward to seeing, meeting, and talking with many of the fans of Western Bonanza. This year is going to a great year! Western Bonanza, here I come!
~Stephanie Conroy
2011-01-12
Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee
My name is Cortney Newby. I am currently involved in my second quarter here at Cal Poly State University. I am an Agriculture Science/Communication major, working on a minor in Range Resource Management. I transferred from Cuesta as a junior last quarter. I am excited to be here where I can focus my studies to my area of interest: agriculture.
I am so excited to be on this year's Western Bonanza team! I know how hard participants work to prepare their animals in preparation for this jackpot. Having been on the "other side of the show ring", as a participant myself, I am looking forward to meeting YOU...the participant and the Western Bonanza supporters!
As part of the Social Media and Publicity Committee, we would love to hear from you! I encourage you to keep up with our Western Bonanza Blog! Please send us your comments and don't forget, we're also on Facebook!
See you at the Bonanza!
Cortney Newby
2011-01-11
Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee Chairs
My name is Malorie Bankhead, and I am a second year agriculture science/communications major at Cal Poly with a concentration in animal science. This is my second year in Western Bonanza. Last year I was on the Media and Publicity Committee. Our hope this year is to continue the success of the fairly new Social Media and Publicity Committee and develop it further into its existence as a part of Western Bonanza.
A few of our responsibilities in the Social Media and Publicity Committee are to maintain and update the Facebook page, manage the BRAND NEW Western Bonanza Blog, Livestream the livestock rings the weekend of Western Bonanza, and provide tools for the media to capture Western Bonanza's story! We hope to have a very successful 27th Western Bonanza February 18-20, 2011, and we hope to see you there!
I am very excited for Cal Poly's 27th Western Bonanza, February 18-20, 2011. Don't forget entries close February 1, 2011! You can enter online, here!
Please check back DAILY on this blog for information about Western Bonanza! I, personally, am VERY excited about this blog! We hope you enjoy it! Also, don't forget to let us know how we are doing in the comment section below! Thank you!
Best wishes,
Malorie
Hi!
This week I talked to some of the members of the beef committee of Western Bonanza and I would like to share with you some of the things they told me:
Denni had mentioned she thinks Bonanza is a great show to gain experience for the younger showmen. She had also brought up that this year there will be some new check-in gates for the beef rings so everyone showing will have to check in prior to going in the show ring in order for the show to be more organized and run smoothly.
Ian stated that the beef rings will be set up a little differently this year so it will be more accessible for both the people showing as well as viewing.
This is Emily’s first year working at Western Bonanza and she is excited to make friends and connections for the future as well as seeing all the hard work that has been put into Bonanza pay off in the end.
Alex is one of the beef committee chairs and he is hoping we have a successful beef show just like last years. He is also hoping to bring in more money from the show so we can give out better awards in the upcoming years. Lastly, he says this is an experience that our whole class can share since it is one of the best weekends that is never forgotten.
-Gina
Hey Bonanza Showers!
I had the chance to meet with the Beef Committee and they gave me some great insight on this year’s Western Bonanza! This year we have a few new additions. The first being a new Market Heifer show has been added to the Beef Show. Also we would love for everyone to join in on Saturday February 19 for Tough Enough to Wear Pink Day! This will support cancer awareness, education, and research, so please remember to pack a pink shirt for Saturday, whether you are male or female! Our goal is to turn all of Western Bonanza Pink!
We hope that everyone enjoys the show and we are all proud to be apart of the largest jackpot show in the Western United States. Some of us have had the chance to show while others have not. Therefore, through this wonderful show we get the reward of seeing happy exhibitors showing high quality animals!
Ashley
Hey hey . . . Keep reading for a sneak peek into the 2011 Western Bonanza. . . .
Merchandise Update
Committee chairs: Amy Brooks and Shelby Sisk
Before you head out to Bonanza, be sure to check out the committee‟s video on FaceBook! Then, when you get to Bonanza and stroll through the tradeshow building, don‟t forget to stop at chat talk with vendors. Also be sure to find the mobile cart outside and stop by. There you can buy either Bonanza or Cal Poly merchandise, including T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, thermals, hats and Texas Hold „em playing cards. Apparel features five new designs in assorted colors.
Facilities Update
Manager: Blake Dunlap
Committee chairs: Jason Mendes and Max Panziera
New this year: To ease the flow of traffic, trailers are welcome to park in the Pioneer Museum parking lot.
Also, new signs are being made which will smooth entry and exit to and from the event center.
Attention: Beef exhibitors will notice weigh stations have been relocated. Scales will have a new setting, with less angles, so it‟s a straight shot all the way. The chairmen say the design “will be more efficient resulting in less chaos.” In addition to shaking things up in the beef exhibition arena, the sheep scales have been taken from behind the restrooms and situated next to the sheep stalls and chicken coops. All moves have been made to ease traffic, whether foot or vehicular.
New this year. . . Facilities decided to implement a release form policy. Dunlap said last year too many stalls were unkempt. So now before departure from the event center you have to follow a checklist of duties. Instead of leaving it dirty, you check-check-check, facilities says yay or nay, and off you go, or don‟t. The policy really helps Monday‟s cleanup crew. And trust me they appreciate it.
Awards Update
Committee chairs: Caitlin Walker and Kate Tscharner
The committee is excited to announce three changes:
1) Prizes this year include USB drives, girft cards and duffel bags
2) In Divisions, place first or second and receive a special placard.
3) Colors for Show A are red and black, which follow the Casino Jackpot theme. Show B colors are green and gold, representing Cal Poly.
* As usual, showmanship champs win buckles.
Had a good time talking with the different crews. They discuss ideas and seem to get things done. You gotta check out the FaceBook page for more info. Notice the many additions that make sending and receiving information a two way superhighway. Join the conversation. Enter into the photo contest. Again, find it all on Facebook!
Adios compadres,
Anthony P.
Hi Bonanza fans!
I hope everyone is getting excited, I know I am! If I had to choose one word to sum up what I expect from Bonanza this year it is GREATNESS. We have a great Management Team and a group of hard working and dedicated students who are all ready and willing to make this year and even bigger success than ever before. We have some really great sponsors who are proof that no matter what state the economy may be in there are generous people in the community that care about youths education in relation to agriculture. Lastly, I expect to have more entries than ever before. Without participants this show couldn’t happen, and we are so thankful for everyone who wants to come out Presidents Day Weekend and see what we are all about!
On a more personal level, I expect to learn a lot about how to run a livestock show and more specifically I would love to learn more about the livestock themselves—particularly sheep! Also, as a part of the Media and Publicity Committee my goal is to make it easily accessible for anyone interested in the show—both near and far—to feel informed about everything that is going on. I am so excited for the greatness that is sure to come!
Thanks!
Adriene
Hey everyone!
So because I am a complete Bonanza newbie I really have NO idea what to expect out of it. But I can tell you that I hope to see the media committee grow and become a larger part of Bonanza this year and for many more years to come. Malorie and Luke have fantastic ideas on how to get YOU (the viewers) involved in the entire Bonanza process. With this blog, the Bonanza Facebook page, the photo contest and the awesome Livestream videos you can see exactly what goes into making Bonanza, well, Bonanza!
~Erin
Hello Western Bonanza buddies!
Western Bonanza is just a few days under a month away. I couldn’t be more excited! This year I hope that our available media, activities, and information are leaping over your expectations. We as a “Media and Publicity” group are brainstorming better and brighter plans for this year in hopes that we step up our game and take your Western Bonanza experience to the limits!
I want the participating members to get the most out of this year’s Western Bonanza, but I would like to “feel the heat!” By heat, I mean you as livestock lovers. I want to help light that fire under your chairs and get everyone thrilled for February 19th. I hope that all the planning and excitement for this year gets me pumped up for the fast paced weekend at hand. I want everyone to have a great time,but most of all I want to make sure all of our goals are accomplished. When that happens, we will all burn bright as a Media and Publicity group. Fans, friends, and members, lets start the fire and light the way to Western Bonanza!
~Stephanie
Hi guys!
The 2011 Western Bonanza is quickly approaching and I am excited for what this year will hold for our participants, their supporters and for those of us who are putting the on the show.
So what are my expectations for the 2011 Western Bonanza?
Based on the years past, I’m looking forward to seeing top quality animas exhibited by skilled showmen within all the species. I know you, as exhibitors, devote countless hours in preparing for your shows; it’s a privilege to see your dedication exhibited in the show ring! I also expect that many of the people involved in Bonanza, from exhibitors to sponsors, will take advantage of the opportunity to be involved with Bonanza prior to the show. This being possible through our website, blog, and our First Annual Photo Contest! We hope these resources allow you to get to know us, understand our excitement for this event, and be a part preparing for the 2011 Western Bonanza!
Talk to you soon ~
Cortney Newby
Hi all,
As we get closer to the 3rd weekend in February, I feel like the Media team is getting closer as well. We have had some GREAT brainstorming meetings and we have a group that is innovative and ready to make everyone feel as though they have hit the jackpot at Bonanza this year! I am looking forward to seeing all of the new ways that our team will bring Bonanza to YOU--whether you are a Cal Poly student, a Bonanza competitor, or visitor who has never been to a single livestock show before. The class is now working in separate, concentrated committees and I can’t wait to see how we all come together to make the show happen in what will soon be just a couple of weeks. We’ll keep working hard, we know all of you exhibitors are too!
God Bless America,
Carolyn Madson
Western Bonanza Media Team
We were happy to have two speakers come to our class tonight! It is my pleasure to post Miss Megan Brownell's bio!
Hello all!
It's Thursday, so you know what that means! We have Western Bonanza class tonight, which means we will be livestreaming the class for you to see! Tonight's guest speakers are Miss Shannon Aguilar and Miss Megan Brownell. In this blog post we have Miss Aguilar's biography for you to enjoy! Don't forget to log onto our Livestream Channel around 6:15pm Pacific Time so you can see what we see as the Western Bonanza class. Tuning into this sight will also help us gain unlimited viewership for our Livestream for Western Bonanza weekend!
Shannon grew up in Somis, California where she was an active 4H member for 10 years. She showed cattle at Western Bonanza in 2003 and 2004.
Shannon received her BS in Ag Business from Cal Poly in 2008. She received her Single Subject and Specialized Ag Credential in 2010 from Cal Poly and is currently working on completing her Masters Degree in Ag Education. She currently is teaching Agriculture at Salinas High School.
At Cal Poly Shannon was involved in many enterprises such as the Bull Test, Swanton Pacific Ranch and the Escuela Cow Calf Enterprise. She was President of the Cal Poly Young Cattlemen’s Club and was a State Officer in the California Young Cattlemen’s Association.
Shannon was another “Western Bonanza Lifer”. She was on the Western Bonanza Team from 2005 to 2009 and was the Intern and General Manager with Wyatt Scott in 2009. Shannon was very involved in helping Bonanza become more efficient and more professional by mentoring many Entry Committee Chairmen during her time with the program.
We hope that you will tune in to see her and Megan tonight! Miss Brownell's bio is coming soon!
Much Enthusiasm,
Malorie Bankhead
Social Media and Publicity Chair
Hey Everyone!
My hopes for this year’s Western Bonanza are that I would like to see entry numbers surpass previous years along with receive more sponsors. Sponsors are a big part in making Bonanza come together. I would also like to see us improve the live stream video so that everyone can join in on the fun at this year’s show. Being that I do not have a background in video production I hope I will come out of Bonanza feeling confident with the process. As well as advance my skills in advertising and networking. I have shown at Bonanza for many years and I am glad to be behind the scenes putting on a great show for others to enjoy!
Hey Bonanza Followers!
I hope all of you are getting as excited about Bonanza as I am! Let me tell you a little bit about what I’m looking forward to for February…
First of all, I hope that we see more entries into the show than we have ever seen. The key to keeping Bonanza successful will always be having as many enthusiastic participants as possible! And I also think having more participants than ever before will say something about the agricultural community as a whole… the future will continue to be promising!
I also want to see an abundance of sponsorships present for Bonanza this year. The more help we get from our sponsors, the bigger and better Bonanza will be in the future. I think it is very important for successful people in the agriculture industry to have a part in the education of our future industry leaders. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of Western Bonanza you can print out and mail in our donor form here!
Bonanza is a great place to meet new people with similar interests, and I see it continuing to be a resource for newcomers, like myself. I’m sure we will all work cohesively to put on a great event!
On a more personal note, I’m excited to learn more about the livestock with which I have less experience (like the hogs!). That’s right--you, the participants, will be educating me! I am looking forward to interacting with all of you and learning as I go along.
Keep checking into the blog, as well as the Facebook page, to get updates on how the process is moving along! And don’t be afraid to give us feedback on how we’re progressing—we love to hear it!
I can’t wait to see everyone’s hard work play out in February!
Yours Truly,
Allison Grayson
Excellence—that’s what I expect at Western Bonanza. As part of the Publicity and Media team, I will use my skills to gather and present information in fun and interesting forms. I hope team members look for peculiar, original angles while covering the different events; finding the story means thinking outside the box. I consider myself a representative of the agricultural world, so it’s my job to show everyone what Bonanza, both in front of and behind the scenes, is all about.
You know, this is my first livestock judging show. In fact, couldn’t tell you the first thing about showing sheep or manicuring cattle, except you gotta keep them healthy. But I know how to deliver all that information once I’ve talked and listened and written it down—which is what I love to do. On the day of the event, I suppose my reporting and technological, skills will be put to the test. In the meantime, my team works to offer a never-before-seen experience, one that will go down in the books as the best Bonanza ever.
T-minus 31 days . . .
Adios Compadres,
Anthony P.
Hi,
My name is Erin Vickerman and I am a second year Ag Business major at Cal Poly. Until I came to Poly, I had been more of a city girl, only having lived in the Bay area, actually San Carlos to be exact. With that said, I didn't know too much about Agriculture until I came here. But I have come to absolutely love Agriculture! I have even become a regular at the Grad on Thursday nights for line dancing.
~Erin
Facebook Photo Contest
Step 1: Become a fan of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show on Facebook.
Step 2: Upload your photo to the Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show Facebook page showcasing how you, as a Western Bonanza exhibitor, are involved in the jackpot.
Step 3: Share with fellow Western Bonanza exhibitors in the contest and vote for your favorites! Below are the rules and guidelines for the contest! Most importantly, have fun and enjoy what Western Bonanza has to offer!
Rules/Guidelines:
1. This is a photo contest to promote the involvement of today's youth in the livestock industry. These photos will appear to all visitors of the Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook fan page. All photos are subject to removal and disqualification if found inappropriate to the contest.
2. In order to participate in this contest, you MUST become a fan of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza on Facebook.
3. A limit of one photo per fan may be submitted to the contest.
4. The deadline to submit photos is February 8, 2011 at midnight.
5. The photos will be open to voting after February 8, 2011 at midnight. Voting will be open through midnight on February 17, 2011.
6. The method of voting takes place by 'liking' the photos in the photo contest folder ONLY. An administrator of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook page will move the photos for the contest from the wall into the appropriate folder. "Likes" of photos in the contest which are posted on Cal Poly's Western Bonanza wall will NOT be counted as votes. Comments can be submitted, but they will not be weighed in the judging of the photos. The winners will be determined strictly by the number of "likes". Upon a tie, the Social Media and Publicity Committee will choose a winner.
7. On the first day of Western Bonanza, February 18, 2011, the winners of the photo contest will be announced.
NOTICE: All photos, once submitted to the Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook page, become property of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza. By uploading your photo, you give the members of the Western Bonanza management team permission to use your photo in any promotional event, blog, or other educational activity regarding Cal Poly's Western Bonanza.
Prizes:
1st: Your photo will become Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Facebook profile picture for one week and also in the Western Bonanza blog post on President's Day! Your photo will also appear in the Western Bonanza newsletter, and possibly appear around the show during Western Bonanza weekend. The winner of the contest will also receive a piece of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza merchandise.
2nd: The 2nd place winner will receive a piece of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza merchandise and also appear in Cal Poly's Western Bonanza blog post on February 22, 2011.
3rd: The 3rd place winner will receive a piece of Cal Poly's Western Bonanza merchandise and appear in Cal Poly's Western Bonanza blog post on February 23, 2011! After the winners are determined, they will be contacted by the Chairperson of the Social Media and Publicity Committee.
We hope you will join us in celebrating the memories that make Western Bonanza the "Best in the West!"
Cheers,
Malorie Bankhead
Social Media and Publicity Committee Chair
Hey everyone!
My name is Allison Grayson. I’m a second year Journalism major at Cal Poly, with a concentration in Public Relations. In addition to my major, I am also working on minors in both Agricultural Communications and Equine Science. Although I decided to go with the Journalism major to hone in on my media skills, I love finding ways to integrate my passion for agriculture into my work in the department.
I grew up in San Antonio, Texas, where I was involved in the equine side of 4-H. Even though I did not show livestock myself, I loved going to the livestock portions of the shows to see how it all worked. I was transferred to Davis, California by the military life during my high school years; and during that time I took a break from 4-H to pursue Class A equine shows. I was still able to further my interest in livestock, though, being that my dad is a large animal veterinarian.
At Cal Poly I have been able to be a member of the Beef Cattle Stocker Enterprise at Cal Poly’s own Swanton Pacific Ranch. And it was through that experience that I learned a lot about raising beef cattle.
I am very excited to be a part of Western Bonanza, not only to learn more about livestock shows, but also to work with the participants and sponsors. Without you, there would be no show!
On behalf of the Social Media and Publicity Committee, we want you to know that we want this year to be the most successful year yet for Western Bonanza—so feel free to send us feedback on how we’re doing! And keep checking into our blog and our Facebook for updates!
See you in February!
Allison Grayson
Hey everybody,
My name is Carolyn Madson and I am a member of the 2011 Bonanza Media & Publicity team! I'm in my second year at Cal Poly and am majoring in Agricultural Science. I grew up on a cow/calf operation here on the Central Coast and am absolutely loving the opportunity to pursue a career in the ag industry at such a fine university. This is my first year being involved with our livestock show and I am so excited to be a part of something that has such a large positive impact--I believe that shows like Western Bonanza provide their competitors with memories and experiences that help them both in and out of the show ring. I showed hogs, beef cattle, and rodeo'd growing up and can't wait to get back in the animal barns!
As you get ready for the big weekend in February don't forget to stay tuned to the various Bonanza links the Media team has going!
We'll see you soon!
Carolyn
Hello,
My name is Ashley Coffey and I am an Animal Science major and focusing on a minor in Agribusiness at Cal Poly. I was born and raised in Napa, CA. I recently transferred from Santa Rosa Junior College. This is my first year with Western Bonanza and I am on the Publicity and Social Media Committee. I am very excited to be involved with this show as it is one of my greater passions in life. I was heavily involved in 4-H throughout my childhood. I showed 3 years of hogs and for the past 10 years I have shown cattle. Within the ten years of showing cattle I have achieved one of my greater accomplishments…winning Champion AOB Female at Cow Palace in 2006. This was with my own Bred and Owned heifer. This heifer was the foundation for my own show cattle herd; I developed this herd to raise quality show animals.
Sincerely,
Ashley
Hi there!
My name is Adriene Henderson, I am a fourth year journalism and public relations major. However, my true passion lies within my minor which is agricultural communications. Both of my parents come from long lines of Minnesota farmers and ranchers, and although I grew up 2,000 miles away from my farm it is without doubt my favorite place on earth. I have been surrounded by agriculture and livestock for as long as I can remember, and not a day goes by that I don’t appreciate their importance. Although I never showed livestock myself, the dedication and competition is fascinating to me.
I have a strong skill set surrounding event planning and public relations work. During my studies as a journalism student I have be introduced to the world of the media, and as a public relations student I have developed skills to communicate with the media as well as various publics. I have a strong background in event planning from my work with the American Cancer Society organizing and running Cal Poly’s Relay for Life as an event chair. I am interning with UC Cooperative Extensions working with their farm advisors and the 4-H program and I love every minute of it. I am very excited to bring my communications knowledge and skills to Western Bonanza but even more so I am excited for all that I will be able to learn surrounding the livestock side of the event!
Thanks!
Adriene
Hi!
My name is Gina Cirimele and this is my first year at Cal Poly. I transferred after two years at the Santa Rosa Junior College. My major is animal science with a minor in ag business. I’m originally from Sonoma, CA and I grew up with exposure to horses but I got mainly involved in agriculture and showing livestock during my first year in high school. I was an active member of Sonoma FFA and Sonoma 4-H. I started out showing exhibition poultry, market swine and then market steers until I graduated.
See you soon!
Gina Cirimele
What’s up everybody?!
The name’s Anthony J. Pannone. I’m part of the 2011 Western Bonanza Publicity and Media team, and I want to tell ya a lil’ bit ‘bout myself. Was born in California, lived in So Cal but moved to Anchorage, Alaska, when I was nine. Then at fifteen moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where I finished high school. After high school for two years I attended Seward County Community College in Liberal, Kansas, where I played baseball. Fast forward . . . This is my final year as an undergraduate student at Cal Poly. My major is agricultural science, with a concentration in animal science, and an emphasis in communications, more specifically writing. In fact I love to write, and am an aspiring philologist (one who studies language). While I dub myself a backpack journalist, I’m so much more!
In what seems a previous life, I played professional baseball for the SF Giants organization. After graduating from Seward County I chased my dream to play Major League baseball. For five-and-a-half years I paid my dues in the minor leagues, traveling from here to there and back again. Boy what an experience! I made it all the way to the Triple-A level before succumbing to a shoulder injury. When that happened I faced the decision of my life—whether to continue playing ball or finish college—I chose option B and here I am, neck deep in the awesome world of agriculture. You see, I eat, therefore I care about the who, what, where, why and how food arrives on my plate. That’s right, like you, like everybody on this earth, I’m connected to the farmers who plow, the cows that moo, and the cotton that’s harvested—and if I forgot someone or something then I apologize: Thank You to everyone involved in providing the world with food and fiber.
I look forward to a prosperous Bonanza!
Adios compadres,
A.J. Pannone
Good afternoon Western Bonanza Blog Followers!
It's Thursday, which means that we have Western Bonanza class this evening! Usually the Western Bonanza class meets twice a week. Tuesday nights are for committee work where each student meets with their committee to plan specifics for Western Bonanza weekend. Thursday nights the students meet as a whole and hear from various guest speakers who come to our class. In addition to our BRAND NEW blog this year, we will also have BRAND NEW Livestream broadcasting of our guest speakers! This year the Social Media and Publicity Committee aims to include you as Western Bonanza exhibitors and supports in the events leading up to Western Bonanza weekend! Each Thursday our guest speaker's biography will be posted on this blog. You can learn a little bit about the speaker and then tune into the Livestream during our class to hear what message they have to share! Our first speaker this week is Shauna Trusas, a "Western Bonanza Lifer".
*****
Hi!
My name is Stephanie Conroy and I am excited to be member of the Western Bonanza team for 2011. I’d like to tell you just a little about myself. I grew up in a Southern California city where all there was to see was cars and overpriced stores. In 8th grade I moved, and it was a complete 180. This place opened my eyes to agriculture and it can be considered the reason why I’m here serving you today.
I started out showing sheep at my county fair. I did this for 4 years. Now I get to be the girl behind the scenes bringing Western Bonanza to you first hand! I’m an Agriculture Science major with a passion for informing the people and helping animals. I still have at least two more years and hope to continue helping with this trend-setting jackpot show. I look forward to seeing, meeting, and talking with many of the fans of Western Bonanza. This year is going to a great year! Western Bonanza, here I come!
~Stephanie Conroy
Hi!
My name is Cortney Newby. I am currently involved in my second quarter here at Cal Poly State University. I am an Agriculture Science/Communication major, working on a minor in Range Resource Management. I transferred from Cuesta as a junior last quarter. I am excited to be here where I can focus my studies to my area of interest: agriculture.
I am so excited to be on this year's Western Bonanza team! I know how hard participants work to prepare their animals in preparation for this jackpot. Having been on the "other side of the show ring", as a participant myself, I am looking forward to meeting YOU...the participant and the Western Bonanza supporters!
As part of the Social Media and Publicity Committee, we would love to hear from you! I encourage you to keep up with our Western Bonanza Blog! Please send us your comments and don't forget, we're also on Facebook!
See you at the Bonanza!
Cortney Newby
Hi!
My name is Malorie Bankhead, and I am a second year agriculture science/communications major at Cal Poly with a concentration in animal science. This is my second year in Western Bonanza. Last year I was on the Media and Publicity Committee. Our hope this year is to continue the success of the fairly new Social Media and Publicity Committee and develop it further into its existence as a part of Western Bonanza.
A few of our responsibilities in the Social Media and Publicity Committee are to maintain and update the Facebook page, manage the BRAND NEW Western Bonanza Blog, Livestream the livestock rings the weekend of Western Bonanza, and provide tools for the media to capture Western Bonanza's story! We hope to have a very successful 27th Western Bonanza February 18-20, 2011, and we hope to see you there!
I am very excited for Cal Poly's 27th Western Bonanza, February 18-20, 2011. Don't forget entries close February 1, 2011! You can enter online, here!
Please check back DAILY on this blog for information about Western Bonanza! I, personally, am VERY excited about this blog! We hope you enjoy it! Also, don't forget to let us know how we are doing in the comment section below! Thank you!
Best wishes,
Malorie