2011-02-24

Western Bonanza Show Numbers

Greetings Western Bonanza Fans!

THANK YOU for a fabulous weekend! The show was a great success because of YOU the exhibitors and supporters of our show! Cal Poly's Western Bonanza is truly the "Best in the West" because of you!

Now that show is over does not mean less work for the Western Bonanza students! Tonight in class we will be working on thank you cards for those sponsors and supporters who helped us "Hit the Jackpot" this year! Entries and placings are being finalized at the moment and will be broadcasted to you as soon as possible. Thank you in advance for being patient.

We'd like to share with you how our show has grown over the years with show numbers and demographics since 2004.

Where our exibitors came from in 2010:
1%  Out of State
12%  Northern California
50%  Central Valley
15%  Southern California
22%  Central Coast

Ages of our exhibitors in 2010:
25%  9 to 12 years old
33%  13 to 15 years old
43%  16 to 21 years old

2004 Show:
1050 Head Entered SHOW A ONLY          530 Exhibitors
          310 steers entered--largest steer show in California in recent history
2005 Show: 1st A and B Show
1017 Head Entered in A SHOW                   490 Exhibitors
579 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,596 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2005
2006 Show:
979 Head Entered in A SHOW                    476 Exhibitors
848 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,827 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2006
2007 Show:
1058 Head Entered in A SHOW                  507 Exhibitors
984 Head Entered in B SHOW
          2042 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2007
2008 Show:
853 Head Entered in A SHOW                    410 Exhibitors
797 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,650 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2008
2009 Show:
882 Head Entered in A SHOW                    426 Exhibitors
820 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,704 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED in 2009
2010 Show:
929 Head Entered in A SHOW                    466 Exhibitors
868 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,797 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED in 2010
2011 Show:
1021 Head Entered in A SHOW                  469 Exhibitors
951 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,972 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED in 2011

As you can see we find it as interesting as you do that we have peaked in total head in 2007, but we are the highest in total head entered in the past three years. Also we noticed that exhibitors seem to be bringing more head per person. We believe that this is a good thing. Our exhibitors are learning more responsibilities as well as multi-tasking skills!

Once again, thank you to all who came, supported, and helped make this year's show a success!!

YOU'VE hit the Jackpot!
~Malorie Bankhead
Social Media and Publicity Chair

2011-02-17

It's HERE!

Finally, it’s here! Welcome to Western Bonanza . . . Will you hit the Jackpot? Well, if you’re a part of this year’s show then you already have money in the bank. Thanks for your support!
Boy I’ll tell ya, sure feels like the night before Christmas on the Central Coast. Why? Because we Bonanaza-ers are prepping for this weekend’s show.
Anxiety. Anticipation. Enthusiasm—those are the words that describe the feelings ‘round here. Please don’t let the weather bog you down as you unload and locate your weekend home. Advice: Dress warm and don’t forget to smile, because this show is all about the experience. Remember . . . Everyone’s a champion!
Got a question? Come by the media center and have it answered.
Got a camera? Snap a photo during the event and stop by the media center. We want to capture live action, so we just might post your picture on FaceBook.
Got a story? Stop by the media center and let us know. Or flag down a member of The Publicity and Media Team and share your experience.
Don’t be strangers. We Bonanza-ers want to capture this weekend through the eyes of you, the exhibitor. So let’s work together and make the show a special memory for everyone involved.
And whenever you have a chance be sure to show your appreciation for the unrelenting commitment to making the 2011 Western Bonanza truly the best experience. A simple high-five, smile or even a hug will do the trick!
For now, a big THANK YOU! Enjoy yourselves—you deserve it!

See you tomorrow!
-Anthony

Livestream!!

Hey Bonanza Followers!
We are so excited for this weekend and hope to see many of you at the show!
But what if you can’t make it to the show, you might ask? Don’t worry, the Media Committee has you covered with Western Bonanza’s very own Livestream!
Members of the committee will be in each of the species rings recording the shows and bringing them in real time to your home, office or wherever you can access the internet!
You will be able to hear what the announcers are saying, as well as see who is proudly sponsoring Bonanza during show breaks. Not only that, but we also have clips of the work that goes into making Bonanza a successful event.

The great thing about the Western Bonanza’s Livestream is that you can chat live with the members of the Media Committee in each designated ring! We’d love to hear how we’re doing! If you forget which ring will be on which Livestream, don't worry! We will have colorful business cards with all of the URLs on them at the Information Center, as well as signs in each ring to remind you!
Make sure you also keep up with our Facebook and Twitter posts (our handle is westernbonanza) so that you never miss a minute of this exciting show!

Beef Ring A:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza
Beef Ring B:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza1
Swine:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza2
Sheep:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza3
Goats:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza4

Enthusiastically Awaiting the Show,
Allison Grayson

2011-02-16

The Trade Show!

Hey Western Bonanza supporters!
What to do while waiting for classes to begin…COME SEE this year’s Western Bonanza Trade Show!!!
We’re excited to say we’ve had a great response from companies wanting to be a part of our Western Bonanza Trade Show. The Trade Show will be held in “The Barn” next to large covered area where the beef show will be taking place. Venders will have their booths set up in The Barn and some venders will have their personal company trailers set up as well around the grounds.
Our vendors come from a wide range of companies and offer a variety of services. We are glad to have two of our sponsors join the trade show, Sullivan Supply and King Feed; when you stop by their booth, be sure to thank them for their support! You will find everything from show supplies to western ware and knife sharpening to livestock feed and supplements. And don’t forget to stop by our Bonanza booth to get your 2011 Western Bonanza merchandise. Our venders will be there to keep you and your animals looking your best for the show ring!

The Western Bonanza Media Committee and City of Paso Robles are also joining the trade show. The City of Paso Robles will be there to answer any questions you have about the beautiful city you will be staying in. Our Media Committee will have a corner in The Barn where you can keep up with all the shows by watching them on Live Stream on a big screen TV; we will also be there to answer any of your Western Bonanza questions. IMPORTANT: Please come to the Information Booth inside the trade show with any questions! Please limit traffic to the Livestock Office by approaching the information booth first!
We’re looking forward to seeing you at the 2011 Western Bonanza Trade Show… so are our venders!!!
Thanks!
Cortney

2011-02-15

Tough Enough To Wear Pink Day!

How tough are you? Are you tough enough to wear pink? Western Bonanza supporters sure are! On Saturday February 19th Western Bonanza committee members will all be wearing pink to show our support for cancer awareness and we encourage everyone else to dress the part as well!


It’s a sad truth that cancer is something that affects just about everyone in today’s world, so we have decided to take a stand and show our support to those battling this terrible disease.
We hope you will all join us on Saturday and wear your pink! And if you can’t be there remember you can watch live at www.livestream.com/westernbonanza!
See you all this weekend!
Adriene

2011-02-14

The Sullivan's Supply Beef Cattle Fitting Contest and Exhibitor Social

Ladies and gentlemen!

Have you hit the jackpot yet? Well in just four precious days we are going to hit it big! This Friday, February 18th, Western Bonanza begins! After weigh in, we begin with our Beef Cattle Fitting Contest at 7 pm.  Come see the competitors and their cattle.



The fitting show is Friday’s highlight of the night. Each group of contestant will go through the intense processes of perfecting the look of their cattle. After these animals have gone through their "beauty makeover" they will step into the ring. The competition will be fierce! These cattle better put their poker faces on! The animal that looks the best and the team that works the hardest will bring it all home! So come, come see these kids hit their own jackpot at Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show!

We will also be livestreaming the event if you are unable to make it Friday night. You can watch at www.livestream.com/westernbonanza

Hope to see you there,
Stephanie 

2011-02-11

CJLA Information

Hey Exhibitors!
Have you heard of the California Junior Livestock Association (CJLA)? If not I will let you in on what it is all about. The CJLA is a great association that was formed to recognize the efforts of junior livestock exhibitors and reward them for their accomplishments. This is done by becoming a member and showing at CJLA sanctioned shows all over California. Once you have become a member you will earn points based on the placing you receive at each show within your divisions.

There is a steer division which is broken down into English, Black/Black Cross, and All Other Colors. As well as a section for Overall Steer. There is also a heifer division that has an Overall Heifer but is also broken down into Angus, Hereford, Shorthorn, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Charolais, and All Other Breeds. There is also Sheep, Goat, and Hog divisions which are broke into age groups based on the exhibitor and each of those divisions has an Overall as well. Last but not least ,there are three age divisions for Showmanship in Beef, Sheep, Goats, and Hogs.
As you can see the CJLA is a great opportunity for the juniors to earn points and great awards. Each year the CJLA holds a banquet dinner for the exhibitors to receive their awards and around 700 people attend. This wonderful banquet is held every year at Western Bonanza! If you would like to join CJLA or know more about it go to the website http://www.californiajuniorlivestock.org/ join and sign up for this year’s points.

Thank You,
Ashley

2011-02-09

Sheep Show

Hi Western Bonanza Fans!

The weekend is quickly approaching and we couldn’t be happier! The Sheep Committee is working hard to make this year better than ever before! Here are some details on the Sheep show itself: Sheep Show eligible exhibitor age: 9 to 19 years as of January 1, 2011 Prospect, Progress, and Market Divisions Classes will be broken after Official Weigh-in Sheep will be checked for fungus at the scale SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP A classes will begin at 10:00 am on Saturday followed by Sheep Show A. Only animals entered in Show A can show in Showmanship A. SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP B classes will begin at 8:30am on Sunday followed by Sheep Show B. Only animals entered in Show B can show in Showmanship B. Champion Premiums:
o Show A & B: Supreme Champion Lamb - $500; Res. Supreme Champion Lamb $350 Trophy Buckles, jackets and Banners for Supreme and Reserve Supreme Lambs. Trophy Buckles for Champion Junior, Intermediate and Senior Showmanship winners. Awards for Prospect, Progress and Market Champions. Complete awards program and premium payout in Show A and Show B 2011 Judges:
This year we are lucky to have to wonderful judges in the sheep ring and they are:
o Harlan Yocham, OK
o John Morzinski, SD



Here is a schedule tailored to the sheep show, hopefully this helps!
Friday Feb. 18th
9 am Arrivals for all species accepted 12-6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
8 pm Late Entries Deadline
10 pm Deadline for all Friday arrivals and Livestock Office Closing Time
Saturday Feb. 19th
6-7 am Arrivals for all species accepted
6:30-9 am Official Sheep weigh-in and Vet Check
8am -6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
10:00 am WB SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP A: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB SHEEP SHOW A: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SHEEP SELECTION SHOW A
12 pm Official release of animals begins (Must obtain official release) No releases from 7 am to 12 pm
6 pm CJLA Banquet
9 pm Livestock Office CLOSED
Sunday Feb. 20th
5-7:30 am Official Release of animals: No animals will be released between 7:30am and 12pm
8am -3 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
8:30 am WB SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP B: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB SHEEP SHOW B: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SHEEP SELECTION SHOW B
12 pm Official Release of all animals
On behalf of everyone working hard to make Western Bonanza a success this year, we want to thank all of our sponsors, judges, and exhibitors because none of this would be possible without you!

Thanks,
Adrianne

2011-02-07

The Swine Show

Hello All,

Below is a recap of the swine show. We have the schedule here for you, as well as some more information about the show! I hope you all are excited to see what the Swine Committee has in store for you! They are hard at work getting ready to put on their most successful show yet. The hog crew looks to be very experienced this year, which should make for a smooth run! Cheers,

Swine Show eligible exhibitor age: 9 to 19 years as of January 1, 2011
 Prospect, Progress and Market Divisions
Classes will be broken after Official Weigh-in
SHOWMANSHIP A classes will begin at 9:30am on Saturday followed by Hog Show A. Only hogs entered in Show A can show in Showmanship A.
 BARROW DERBY classes will begin following Showmanship A on Saturday. Barrows must be entered in SHOW A.
 Barrow Derby classes will be broken by weight
 Barrow Derby Premiums: Paid to Champion & Reserve only
o Champion Barrow- $200; Reserve Champion Barrow: $150
o Champion & Reserve Barrow will receive Banners and prizes.
 SHOWMANSHIP B classes will begin at 9:30 am on Sunday followed by Hog Show B. Only hogs entered in Show B can show in Showmanship B.
 Champion Premiums: Show A & B:
o Supreme Hog - $500; Res. Supreme Hog - $350
 Trophy Buckles, jackets and Banners for Supreme and Reserve Supreme Hogs and Trophy Buckles for Junior, Intermediate and Senior Showmanship winners.
 Awards for Prospect, Progress and Market Division Champions
 Complete awards program and premium payout in Show A and Show B
2011 Judges:
o Brian Anderson, KS
o Aaron Cooper, TX

Friday Feb. 18th

9 am Arrivals for all species accepted Vendors Accepted
12-6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
6 pm Maine-Anjou SKILL-A-THON (open to all WB exhibitors)
6-8 pm Official Swine weigh-in
8 pm Late Entries Deadline
10 pm Deadline for all Friday arrivals and Livestock Office Closing Time

Saturday Feb. 19th NO LATE ENTRIES ACCEPTED!
6-7 am Arrivals for all species accepted
6-7:30 am Official Swine weigh-in
8am -6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
9:30 am WB SWINE SHOWMANSHIP A: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB BARROW DERBY & SELECTION OF CHAMPION & RESERVE BARROW
Followed by: WB SWINE SHOW A: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SWINE SELECTION SHOW A
12 pm Official release of animals begins (Exhibitors must obtain official release) No releases from 7 am to 12 pm
6 pm CJLA Banquet
9 pm Livestock Office CLOSED











Sunday Feb. 20th
5-7:30 am Official Release of animals: No animals will be released between 7:30am and 12pm
8am -3 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
9:30 am WB SWINE SHOWMANSHIP B: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB SWINE SHOW B: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SWINE SELECTION SHOW B
12 pm Official Release of all animals
Schedule can be changed by management at any time.

2011-02-04

Beef Ring Schedule

Howdy!

The Western Bonanza is quickly approaching and the Beef Show Committee is working hard to make sure all the details are in order.
Here is the 2011 Beef Show schedule for you to look over. You will notice that not many changes have been made from previous years. However, as we have mentioned, the Beef Committee is excited about a new show ring set-up and class check-in procedure. They hope that these subtle changes will allow the show to run even smoother!
If you want to see the complete livestock show schedule for all the species or want more Western Bonanza details, visit our website!
~ Gina Cirimele, Ashley Coffey, & Cortney Newby
(Your Beef Committee Media Team)
Friday February 18th
9 am  Arrivals for all species accepted
4-7 pm  Official weigh-in of Steers, Market Heifers, and ALL Commercial Heifers
6 pm  Maine-Anjou SKILL-A-THON (open to all WB exhibitors)
6:30-7 pm  Entries accepted for Beef Fitting Contest at beef show ring
7 pm  Sullivan's Supply Beef Cattle Fitting Contest and Exhibitor Social
8 pm  DEADLINE FOR HEIFER PAPER CHECK-IN (Livestock Office)
8 pm  Late Entries Deadline
10 pm  Deadline for all Friday arrivals and Livestock Office Closing Time
Saturday February 19th
6-7 am  Arrivals for all species accepted
6-7 am  Official Steer and Market Heifer weigh-in
8 am  WB BEEF SHOWMANSHIP A: Class 1 of each age division will begin at 8 am (heifers and steers compete together)
 Ring A - Intermediate
 Ring B - Senior
Ring C - Junior
 Heifer Show A will begin immediately following completion of ALL Beef Showmanship competitions.
Followed by:
WB BREEDING HEIFER SHOW A and B: Angus, AOB, Maine-Anjou, Maine Tainer, Chianina /Chimaine, Shorthorn, Hereford, Commercial. Rotation 1: TBA

Rotation 2: TBA Rotation 3: TBA
Followed by:  SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE SELECTION SHOW A
Followed by:  BRED/OWNED SHOW & SUPREME CHAMPION B&O SELECTION
Followed by:  Completion of HEIFER SHOW B - SELECTION OF SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE SHOW B
6 pm  CJLA Banquet
9 pm  Livestock Office CLOSED
Sunday February 19th
5-7:30 am  Official Release of animals: No animals will be released between 7:30am and 12pm
8 am  WB BEEF SHOWMANSHIP B: Class 1 of each age division will begin at 8 am (heifers and steers compete together)
 Ring A - Intermediate
 Ring B - Senior
Ring C - Junior
 Steer Show A will begin immediately following completion of ALL Beef Showmanship competitions.
Followed by:
WB STEER AND MARKET HEIFER SHOW A & B Prospect: British*, AOC, and Black, followed by Champion Prospect Steer Selection (points only) Prospect Heifers followed by Champion Prospect Heifer Selection Followed by Overall Champion Prospect Selection Progress: British*, AOC, and Black followed by Champion Progress Steer Selection (points only) Progress Heifers followed by Champion Progress Selection Followed by Overall Champion Progress Selection Market: British*, AOC, and Black Champion Market Steer Selection (points only) Market Heifers followed by Champion Market Selection Followed by Overall Champion Market Selection * Hereford, Angus and Shorthorn steers will be shown together in the British Division (WB STEER SHOW B will begin following champion selection of each of the Breed Divisions in SHOW A)
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION STEER SELECTION SHOW A
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION STEER SELECTION SHOW BFollowed by: CHAMPION SELECTION OF CALIFORNIA CLUB CALF ASSOCIATION

12 pm Official Release of all animals

Schedule can be changed by management at any time.

This steer was shown in the second year of Western Bonanza in Santa Maria, CA in 1986. This steer, exhibited by Mike Wolfe, went on to receive Grand Champion honors at the CA mid-state fair! Thank you Mike for sharing!

2011-02-02

Check out the Swine Committee!

Hey Bonanza Followers!
I know you’ve been hearing a lot about our excitement as the Media Committee, but today we want to let you in on the excitement of the species committees—Specifically the Swine Committee!
Hog entries really rolled in for this February’s Western Bonanza show. Committee chairs Chandler Wilson and Mollie Salinger are ready to see the numbers soar up to an all time high; especially in the newest hog division, the Barrow Derby! Overall, they want to see the show run smoothly and with their very experienced committee members, Chandler and Mollie see the show running smoother than ever.

In talking to the committee members themselves, Christina Cefalu said that she showed hogs when she was younger. She’s excited to be on the other side of things now, and to see how well the exhibitors do this year.
Similarly, Eric Frizzie said that he is looking forward to seeing the quality of the pigs and how they compare to other shows that he’s been to over the years. Eric, like the rest of the Bonanza Team, made a point of saying that he is excited to help the kids succeed in their showing endeavors at Bonanza.
Like many of us, this year is Sean Landberg’s first time at Bonanza. He is very enthusiastic about experiencing Bonanza for the first time, and hopefully being able to return next year.
As you can see, the Swine Committee is off to a great start this year. And we are looking forward to seeing all of their hard work pay off in February!
Until then,
Allison Grayson and Erin Vickerman (Bonanza’s Hog Media Team!)

2011-01-28

Find Out What's New in the Beef Show!

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

2011-01-27

Tough Enough to Wear Pink Day!

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

2011-01-26

Learn More About the Committees!

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.

2011-01-24

What WE expect from Western Bonanza!

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

2011-01-23

What WE expect from Western Bonanza!

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

2011-01-22

What WE expect from Western Bonanza!

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

2011-01-20

Meet Megan Brownell!

We were happy to have two speakers come to our class tonight! It is my pleasure to post Miss Megan Brownell's bio!


Megan grew up really far from here in the “sticks” of East Santa Maria Valley.  She has been blessed to be able to enjoy her life and has always “hit the ground running”.  She was a State FFA Officer, had an internship with Quarter Horse and now her passion is working with the group, I Love Farmers…They Feed My Soul.  Megan looks forward to hearing and sharing people’s stories about agriculture.
Megan graduated from Cal Poly in 2009 with a B.S in Ag Science.  She presently works for the Core Clean Group.
Megan was a Western Bonanza team member from 2004 through 2009 and was a manager in 2008 and 2009 which makes her another “Western Bonanza Lifer”.  

Thank you for your support!
Malorie 
Social Media and Publicity Committee

Meet Shannon Aguilar, Guest Speaker

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

Learn What WE Expect Out of Western Bonanza!

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!
~Ashley Coffey

Hi!

My expectations from Western Bonanza this year are to have a great show with a great turnout especially since Bonanza continues to grow every year. I would like to see Bonanza run smoothly from our end and I hope our Media and Publicity Committee can provide our viewers with a constant variety of live stream videos and an array of pictures throughout the whole show to make it feel like everyone is in the action. I can’t wait to watch and help out with the shows and keep everyone updated!


 
-Gina


2011-01-19

Learn What WE Expect Out of Western Bonanza!

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.

Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee

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.

I don't have any experience in showing livestock so I am super excited to get my boots dirty and be a part of Bonanza this year. I am ready to meet new people and learn all about livestock shows. I can't wait to see how it all comes together and I hope to see you all there on Presidents day weekend!
~Erin

2011-01-18

"Thanks for the Memories" Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest

Happy Tuesday everyone!
Come one! Come all! Introducing the BRAND NEW Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest! Read below for rules and guidelines! You could be a part of the first ever Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest! If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below on this blog post, or on our Facebook wall!
 
“Thanks for the Memories”
Western Bonanza
Facebook Photo Contest
Have you shown livestock at Cal Poly's Western Bonanza? Was it last year? Was it perhaps 27 years ago? If so, we want your photos! Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show has existed since the birth of a Cal Poly student's senior project in 1985. Since the beginning of the show, times have changed, as well as the conformation of the livestock shown! The “Thanks for the Memories” Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest will help bring back the past of Western Bonanza, as well as fuel the future of this entirely student run jackpot show. This contest will begin on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 and conclude on Thursday, February 17, 2011. In order to keep the memories alive from Cal Poly's Western Bonanza, you will have the chance to share your memories in photos on Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show Facebook page. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3!
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

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

2011-01-16

Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee

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.

Not only have I been involved with cattle but I have also been showing horses for the past 18 years. The disciplines I have shown in are Western Pleasure, English, and currently, Cutting. I am looking forward to my involvement with this show and the opportunities that may arise.

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

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.

This is my first year helping with Bonanza and I am excited to be a part of it. I’m eager to see what this year will bring and can’t wait to see what everyone has been working on to get here. The show is right around the corner and it will be here before we know it. I’m looking forward to a fun and very fast month!

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

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".


  
 *****
A native of California, Shauna grew up in Redding, a small town in Northern, CA.  She attended Cal Poly 1998 – 2005 where she graduated with a degree in Animal Science.  While attending Cal Poly she was active in many of the Animal Science Enterprises and participated in Western Bonanza for six years! During college she also was a Poly Rep, an Ag Ambassador,  and she graduated from "The World Champion College of Auctioneering". Shauna also started her own jewelry company called Corbett Silver Company. Upon graduation, she went to work for John Rodgers as his “Assistant” where she did everything from shipping cattle to creating purebred female and bull catalogs.  In 2007 she was hired by Allflex USA, Inc. to be their Western Regional Manager where she oversaw all sales and marketing efforts in California, Nevada, and Arizona primarily concentrating on dairy cattle and calf ranches.  In May of 2010 Shauna joined Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica where she is a territory manager selling cattle pharmaceuticals to dairy producers in the Central Valley of California. 

*****
We are very happy to have Shauna speaking to us tonight, and we can't wait to hear from her! Can you? Don't forget to tune into our Livestream broadcast, where you can hear from Shauna LIVE tonight around 6:30pm!

With Much Enthusiasm,
Malorie
Social Media and Publicity Chairperson

Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee

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

2011-01-12

Meet the Social Media and Publicity Committee

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 have lived here on the Central Coast my whole life. I grew up in Atascadero where I was active in the Cerro Alto 4-H club. What brought me to 4-H initially was my love for agriculture, specifically in the area of livestock. I showed for ten years at the California Mid-State Fair:  eight years with sheep, and my last two years I showed steers and a heifer. My sheep showing career was highlighted with a 4-H Champion Market Lamb; however, I also loved working with cattle. To get some extra time in showing, my last two years exhibiting I showed in several jackpots...including Western Bonanza!

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

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 to serve as a committee chair for the Social Media and Publicity Committee of Western Bonanza. I grew up on a small cow/calf operation in Livermore, CA. I have had a passion for agriculture all my life. I raised hogs, steers, and lambs in 4-H and FFA for eight years of my life. This past summer, showing as a 5th year member of the Livermore FFA, I exhibited the Alameda County Fair Champion Market Hog! It was my greatest accomplishment in showing livestock. Although I only showed my first steer at one jackpot, I really like the livestock show atmosphere. The smell of competition and perfection in the air really makes me happy for the youth who are working hard to showcase their passion:  their livestock. I have served as many offices in 4-H and FFA including secretary and president. I also served the North Coast Region FFA as Vice President my junior and senior years in high school. I served as a charter member of the Alameda County Fair Youth Advisory Group, helping form decisions about the livestock show at my county fair. I have also worked at the Alameda County Fair in the exhibits department the past three summers, and I have assisted with Livestock DNA sample collection facilities at the California State Fair for the past two summers. In 2009 I won the CA FFA State Prepared Public Speaking Contest and placed among the top 16 at the National Contest in Indiana at National Convention. I also served as the 2009 CA Beef Ambassador, and this past year I served as a member of the National Beef Ambassador Team. As a part of that five person team I traveled to eight states helping run various consumer promotion events like the Boston Marathon Beef Booth, the New York State Fair Beef Culinary Stage, and the D.C. Cooking and Entertaining Show. This year I look forward to being a charter member of the National Beef Speakers Bureau, targeting consumers and educating them about the importance of beef in a healthy diet as well as sharing the beef production story. I am also serving as the Cal Poly Young Cattlemen's Committee Secretary this year, as well.

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
On 2011-02-24 0 comments

Greetings Western Bonanza Fans!

THANK YOU for a fabulous weekend! The show was a great success because of YOU the exhibitors and supporters of our show! Cal Poly's Western Bonanza is truly the "Best in the West" because of you!

Now that show is over does not mean less work for the Western Bonanza students! Tonight in class we will be working on thank you cards for those sponsors and supporters who helped us "Hit the Jackpot" this year! Entries and placings are being finalized at the moment and will be broadcasted to you as soon as possible. Thank you in advance for being patient.

We'd like to share with you how our show has grown over the years with show numbers and demographics since 2004.

Where our exibitors came from in 2010:
1%  Out of State
12%  Northern California
50%  Central Valley
15%  Southern California
22%  Central Coast

Ages of our exhibitors in 2010:
25%  9 to 12 years old
33%  13 to 15 years old
43%  16 to 21 years old

2004 Show:
1050 Head Entered SHOW A ONLY          530 Exhibitors
          310 steers entered--largest steer show in California in recent history
2005 Show: 1st A and B Show
1017 Head Entered in A SHOW                   490 Exhibitors
579 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,596 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2005
2006 Show:
979 Head Entered in A SHOW                    476 Exhibitors
848 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,827 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2006
2007 Show:
1058 Head Entered in A SHOW                  507 Exhibitors
984 Head Entered in B SHOW
          2042 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2007
2008 Show:
853 Head Entered in A SHOW                    410 Exhibitors
797 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,650 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED IN 2008
2009 Show:
882 Head Entered in A SHOW                    426 Exhibitors
820 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,704 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED in 2009
2010 Show:
929 Head Entered in A SHOW                    466 Exhibitors
868 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,797 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED in 2010
2011 Show:
1021 Head Entered in A SHOW                  469 Exhibitors
951 Head Entered in B SHOW
          1,972 TOTAL HEAD ENTERED in 2011

As you can see we find it as interesting as you do that we have peaked in total head in 2007, but we are the highest in total head entered in the past three years. Also we noticed that exhibitors seem to be bringing more head per person. We believe that this is a good thing. Our exhibitors are learning more responsibilities as well as multi-tasking skills!

Once again, thank you to all who came, supported, and helped make this year's show a success!!

YOU'VE hit the Jackpot!
~Malorie Bankhead
Social Media and Publicity Chair

On 2011-02-17 0 comments

Finally, it’s here! Welcome to Western Bonanza . . . Will you hit the Jackpot? Well, if you’re a part of this year’s show then you already have money in the bank. Thanks for your support!
Boy I’ll tell ya, sure feels like the night before Christmas on the Central Coast. Why? Because we Bonanaza-ers are prepping for this weekend’s show.
Anxiety. Anticipation. Enthusiasm—those are the words that describe the feelings ‘round here. Please don’t let the weather bog you down as you unload and locate your weekend home. Advice: Dress warm and don’t forget to smile, because this show is all about the experience. Remember . . . Everyone’s a champion!
Got a question? Come by the media center and have it answered.
Got a camera? Snap a photo during the event and stop by the media center. We want to capture live action, so we just might post your picture on FaceBook.
Got a story? Stop by the media center and let us know. Or flag down a member of The Publicity and Media Team and share your experience.
Don’t be strangers. We Bonanza-ers want to capture this weekend through the eyes of you, the exhibitor. So let’s work together and make the show a special memory for everyone involved.
And whenever you have a chance be sure to show your appreciation for the unrelenting commitment to making the 2011 Western Bonanza truly the best experience. A simple high-five, smile or even a hug will do the trick!
For now, a big THANK YOU! Enjoy yourselves—you deserve it!

See you tomorrow!
-Anthony

On 0 comments

Hey Bonanza Followers!
We are so excited for this weekend and hope to see many of you at the show!
But what if you can’t make it to the show, you might ask? Don’t worry, the Media Committee has you covered with Western Bonanza’s very own Livestream!
Members of the committee will be in each of the species rings recording the shows and bringing them in real time to your home, office or wherever you can access the internet!
You will be able to hear what the announcers are saying, as well as see who is proudly sponsoring Bonanza during show breaks. Not only that, but we also have clips of the work that goes into making Bonanza a successful event.


The great thing about the Western Bonanza’s Livestream is that you can chat live with the members of the Media Committee in each designated ring! We’d love to hear how we’re doing! If you forget which ring will be on which Livestream, don't worry! We will have colorful business cards with all of the URLs on them at the Information Center, as well as signs in each ring to remind you!
Make sure you also keep up with our Facebook and Twitter posts (our handle is westernbonanza) so that you never miss a minute of this exciting show!

Beef Ring A:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza
Beef Ring B:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza1
Swine:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza2
Sheep:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza3
Goats:  www.livestream.com/westernbonanza4

Enthusiastically Awaiting the Show,
Allison Grayson

On 2011-02-16 1 comments

Hey Western Bonanza supporters!
What to do while waiting for classes to begin…COME SEE this year’s Western Bonanza Trade Show!!!
We’re excited to say we’ve had a great response from companies wanting to be a part of our Western Bonanza Trade Show. The Trade Show will be held in “The Barn” next to large covered area where the beef show will be taking place. Venders will have their booths set up in The Barn and some venders will have their personal company trailers set up as well around the grounds.
Our vendors come from a wide range of companies and offer a variety of services. We are glad to have two of our sponsors join the trade show, Sullivan Supply and King Feed; when you stop by their booth, be sure to thank them for their support! You will find everything from show supplies to western ware and knife sharpening to livestock feed and supplements. And don’t forget to stop by our Bonanza booth to get your 2011 Western Bonanza merchandise. Our venders will be there to keep you and your animals looking your best for the show ring!


The Western Bonanza Media Committee and City of Paso Robles are also joining the trade show. The City of Paso Robles will be there to answer any questions you have about the beautiful city you will be staying in. Our Media Committee will have a corner in The Barn where you can keep up with all the shows by watching them on Live Stream on a big screen TV; we will also be there to answer any of your Western Bonanza questions. IMPORTANT: Please come to the Information Booth inside the trade show with any questions! Please limit traffic to the Livestock Office by approaching the information booth first!
We’re looking forward to seeing you at the 2011 Western Bonanza Trade Show… so are our venders!!!
Thanks!
Cortney

On 2011-02-15 1 comments

How tough are you? Are you tough enough to wear pink? Western Bonanza supporters sure are! On Saturday February 19th Western Bonanza committee members will all be wearing pink to show our support for cancer awareness and we encourage everyone else to dress the part as well!


It’s a sad truth that cancer is something that affects just about everyone in today’s world, so we have decided to take a stand and show our support to those battling this terrible disease.
We hope you will all join us on Saturday and wear your pink! And if you can’t be there remember you can watch live at www.livestream.com/westernbonanza!
See you all this weekend!
Adriene

On 2011-02-14 0 comments

Ladies and gentlemen!

Have you hit the jackpot yet? Well in just four precious days we are going to hit it big! This Friday, February 18th, Western Bonanza begins! After weigh in, we begin with our Beef Cattle Fitting Contest at 7 pm.  Come see the competitors and their cattle.



The fitting show is Friday’s highlight of the night. Each group of contestant will go through the intense processes of perfecting the look of their cattle. After these animals have gone through their "beauty makeover" they will step into the ring. The competition will be fierce! These cattle better put their poker faces on! The animal that looks the best and the team that works the hardest will bring it all home! So come, come see these kids hit their own jackpot at Cal Poly’s Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show!

We will also be livestreaming the event if you are unable to make it Friday night. You can watch at www.livestream.com/westernbonanza

Hope to see you there,
Stephanie 

On 2011-02-11 0 comments

Hey Exhibitors!
Have you heard of the California Junior Livestock Association (CJLA)? If not I will let you in on what it is all about. The CJLA is a great association that was formed to recognize the efforts of junior livestock exhibitors and reward them for their accomplishments. This is done by becoming a member and showing at CJLA sanctioned shows all over California. Once you have become a member you will earn points based on the placing you receive at each show within your divisions.

There is a steer division which is broken down into English, Black/Black Cross, and All Other Colors. As well as a section for Overall Steer. There is also a heifer division that has an Overall Heifer but is also broken down into Angus, Hereford, Shorthorn, Limousin, Maine-Anjou, Charolais, and All Other Breeds. There is also Sheep, Goat, and Hog divisions which are broke into age groups based on the exhibitor and each of those divisions has an Overall as well. Last but not least ,there are three age divisions for Showmanship in Beef, Sheep, Goats, and Hogs.
As you can see the CJLA is a great opportunity for the juniors to earn points and great awards. Each year the CJLA holds a banquet dinner for the exhibitors to receive their awards and around 700 people attend. This wonderful banquet is held every year at Western Bonanza! If you would like to join CJLA or know more about it go to the website http://www.californiajuniorlivestock.org/ join and sign up for this year’s points.

Thank You,
Ashley

On 2011-02-09 0 comments

Hi Western Bonanza Fans!

The weekend is quickly approaching and we couldn’t be happier! The Sheep Committee is working hard to make this year better than ever before! Here are some details on the Sheep show itself: Sheep Show eligible exhibitor age: 9 to 19 years as of January 1, 2011 Prospect, Progress, and Market Divisions Classes will be broken after Official Weigh-in Sheep will be checked for fungus at the scale SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP A classes will begin at 10:00 am on Saturday followed by Sheep Show A. Only animals entered in Show A can show in Showmanship A. SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP B classes will begin at 8:30am on Sunday followed by Sheep Show B. Only animals entered in Show B can show in Showmanship B. Champion Premiums:
o Show A & B: Supreme Champion Lamb - $500; Res. Supreme Champion Lamb $350 Trophy Buckles, jackets and Banners for Supreme and Reserve Supreme Lambs. Trophy Buckles for Champion Junior, Intermediate and Senior Showmanship winners. Awards for Prospect, Progress and Market Champions. Complete awards program and premium payout in Show A and Show B 2011 Judges:
This year we are lucky to have to wonderful judges in the sheep ring and they are:
o Harlan Yocham, OK
o John Morzinski, SD



Here is a schedule tailored to the sheep show, hopefully this helps!
Friday Feb. 18th
9 am Arrivals for all species accepted 12-6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
8 pm Late Entries Deadline
10 pm Deadline for all Friday arrivals and Livestock Office Closing Time
Saturday Feb. 19th
6-7 am Arrivals for all species accepted
6:30-9 am Official Sheep weigh-in and Vet Check
8am -6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
10:00 am WB SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP A: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB SHEEP SHOW A: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SHEEP SELECTION SHOW A
12 pm Official release of animals begins (Must obtain official release) No releases from 7 am to 12 pm
6 pm CJLA Banquet
9 pm Livestock Office CLOSED
Sunday Feb. 20th
5-7:30 am Official Release of animals: No animals will be released between 7:30am and 12pm
8am -3 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
8:30 am WB SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP B: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB SHEEP SHOW B: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SHEEP SELECTION SHOW B
12 pm Official Release of all animals
On behalf of everyone working hard to make Western Bonanza a success this year, we want to thank all of our sponsors, judges, and exhibitors because none of this would be possible without you!

Thanks,
Adrianne

On 2011-02-07 0 comments

Hello All,

Below is a recap of the swine show. We have the schedule here for you, as well as some more information about the show! I hope you all are excited to see what the Swine Committee has in store for you! They are hard at work getting ready to put on their most successful show yet. The hog crew looks to be very experienced this year, which should make for a smooth run! Cheers,

Swine Show eligible exhibitor age: 9 to 19 years as of January 1, 2011
 Prospect, Progress and Market Divisions
Classes will be broken after Official Weigh-in
SHOWMANSHIP A classes will begin at 9:30am on Saturday followed by Hog Show A. Only hogs entered in Show A can show in Showmanship A.
 BARROW DERBY classes will begin following Showmanship A on Saturday. Barrows must be entered in SHOW A.
 Barrow Derby classes will be broken by weight
 Barrow Derby Premiums: Paid to Champion & Reserve only
o Champion Barrow- $200; Reserve Champion Barrow: $150
o Champion & Reserve Barrow will receive Banners and prizes.
 SHOWMANSHIP B classes will begin at 9:30 am on Sunday followed by Hog Show B. Only hogs entered in Show B can show in Showmanship B.
 Champion Premiums: Show A & B:
o Supreme Hog - $500; Res. Supreme Hog - $350
 Trophy Buckles, jackets and Banners for Supreme and Reserve Supreme Hogs and Trophy Buckles for Junior, Intermediate and Senior Showmanship winners.
 Awards for Prospect, Progress and Market Division Champions
 Complete awards program and premium payout in Show A and Show B

2011 Judges:
o Brian Anderson, KS
o Aaron Cooper, TX

Friday Feb. 18th

9 am Arrivals for all species accepted Vendors Accepted
12-6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
6 pm Maine-Anjou SKILL-A-THON (open to all WB exhibitors)
6-8 pm Official Swine weigh-in
8 pm Late Entries Deadline
10 pm Deadline for all Friday arrivals and Livestock Office Closing Time

Saturday Feb. 19th NO LATE ENTRIES ACCEPTED!
6-7 am Arrivals for all species accepted
6-7:30 am Official Swine weigh-in
8am -6 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
9:30 am WB SWINE SHOWMANSHIP A: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB BARROW DERBY & SELECTION OF CHAMPION & RESERVE BARROW
Followed by: WB SWINE SHOW A: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SWINE SELECTION SHOW A
12 pm Official release of animals begins (Exhibitors must obtain official release) No releases from 7 am to 12 pm
6 pm CJLA Banquet
9 pm Livestock Office CLOSED











Sunday Feb. 20th
5-7:30 am Official Release of animals: No animals will be released between 7:30am and 12pm
8am -3 pm Western Bonanza Trade Show and Merchandise Stores Open
9:30 am WB SWINE SHOWMANSHIP B: Junior, followed by Intermediate, followed by Senior
Followed by: WB SWINE SHOW B: Prospect, Progress, and Market
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION SWINE SELECTION SHOW B
12 pm Official Release of all animals
Schedule can be changed by management at any time.

On 2011-02-04 0 comments

Howdy!

The Western Bonanza is quickly approaching and the Beef Show Committee is working hard to make sure all the details are in order.
Here is the 2011 Beef Show schedule for you to look over. You will notice that not many changes have been made from previous years. However, as we have mentioned, the Beef Committee is excited about a new show ring set-up and class check-in procedure. They hope that these subtle changes will allow the show to run even smoother!
If you want to see the complete livestock show schedule for all the species or want more Western Bonanza details, visit our website!
~ Gina Cirimele, Ashley Coffey, & Cortney Newby
(Your Beef Committee Media Team)
Friday February 18th
9 am  Arrivals for all species accepted
4-7 pm  Official weigh-in of Steers, Market Heifers, and ALL Commercial Heifers
6 pm  Maine-Anjou SKILL-A-THON (open to all WB exhibitors)
6:30-7 pm  Entries accepted for Beef Fitting Contest at beef show ring
7 pm  Sullivan's Supply Beef Cattle Fitting Contest and Exhibitor Social
8 pm  DEADLINE FOR HEIFER PAPER CHECK-IN (Livestock Office)
8 pm  Late Entries Deadline
10 pm  Deadline for all Friday arrivals and Livestock Office Closing Time
Saturday February 19th
6-7 am  Arrivals for all species accepted
6-7 am  Official Steer and Market Heifer weigh-in
8 am  WB BEEF SHOWMANSHIP A: Class 1 of each age division will begin at 8 am (heifers and steers compete together)
 Ring A - Intermediate
 Ring B - Senior
Ring C - Junior
 Heifer Show A will begin immediately following completion of ALL Beef Showmanship competitions.
Followed by:
WB BREEDING HEIFER SHOW A and B: Angus, AOB, Maine-Anjou, Maine Tainer, Chianina /Chimaine, Shorthorn, Hereford, Commercial. Rotation 1: TBA

Rotation 2: TBA Rotation 3: TBA
Followed by:  SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE SELECTION SHOW A
Followed by:  BRED/OWNED SHOW & SUPREME CHAMPION B&O SELECTION
Followed by:  Completion of HEIFER SHOW B - SELECTION OF SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE SHOW B
6 pm  CJLA Banquet
9 pm  Livestock Office CLOSED
Sunday February 19th
5-7:30 am  Official Release of animals: No animals will be released between 7:30am and 12pm
8 am  WB BEEF SHOWMANSHIP B: Class 1 of each age division will begin at 8 am (heifers and steers compete together)
 Ring A - Intermediate
 Ring B - Senior
Ring C - Junior
 Steer Show A will begin immediately following completion of ALL Beef Showmanship competitions.
Followed by:
WB STEER AND MARKET HEIFER SHOW A & B Prospect: British*, AOC, and Black, followed by Champion Prospect Steer Selection (points only) Prospect Heifers followed by Champion Prospect Heifer Selection Followed by Overall Champion Prospect Selection Progress: British*, AOC, and Black followed by Champion Progress Steer Selection (points only) Progress Heifers followed by Champion Progress Selection Followed by Overall Champion Progress Selection Market: British*, AOC, and Black Champion Market Steer Selection (points only) Market Heifers followed by Champion Market Selection Followed by Overall Champion Market Selection * Hereford, Angus and Shorthorn steers will be shown together in the British Division (WB STEER SHOW B will begin following champion selection of each of the Breed Divisions in SHOW A)
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION STEER SELECTION SHOW A
Followed by: SUPREME CHAMPION STEER SELECTION SHOW BFollowed by: CHAMPION SELECTION OF CALIFORNIA CLUB CALF ASSOCIATION

12 pm Official Release of all animals

Schedule can be changed by management at any time.

This steer was shown in the second year of Western Bonanza in Santa Maria, CA in 1986. This steer, exhibited by Mike Wolfe, went on to receive Grand Champion honors at the CA mid-state fair! Thank you Mike for sharing!

On 2011-02-02 0 comments

Hey Bonanza Followers!
I know you’ve been hearing a lot about our excitement as the Media Committee, but today we want to let you in on the excitement of the species committees—Specifically the Swine Committee!
Hog entries really rolled in for this February’s Western Bonanza show. Committee chairs Chandler Wilson and Mollie Salinger are ready to see the numbers soar up to an all time high; especially in the newest hog division, the Barrow Derby! Overall, they want to see the show run smoothly and with their very experienced committee members, Chandler and Mollie see the show running smoother than ever.


In talking to the committee members themselves, Christina Cefalu said that she showed hogs when she was younger. She’s excited to be on the other side of things now, and to see how well the exhibitors do this year.
Similarly, Eric Frizzie said that he is looking forward to seeing the quality of the pigs and how they compare to other shows that he’s been to over the years. Eric, like the rest of the Bonanza Team, made a point of saying that he is excited to help the kids succeed in their showing endeavors at Bonanza.
Like many of us, this year is Sean Landberg’s first time at Bonanza. He is very enthusiastic about experiencing Bonanza for the first time, and hopefully being able to return next year.
As you can see, the Swine Committee is off to a great start this year. And we are looking forward to seeing all of their hard work pay off in February!
Until then,
Allison Grayson and Erin Vickerman (Bonanza’s Hog Media Team!)

On 2011-01-28 0 comments

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

On 2011-01-27 0 comments

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

On 2011-01-26 1 comments

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.

On 2011-01-24 0 comments

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

On 2011-01-23 0 comments

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

On 2011-01-22 0 comments

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

On 2011-01-20 0 comments

We were happy to have two speakers come to our class tonight! It is my pleasure to post Miss Megan Brownell's bio!


Megan grew up really far from here in the “sticks” of East Santa Maria Valley.  She has been blessed to be able to enjoy her life and has always “hit the ground running”.  She was a State FFA Officer, had an internship with Quarter Horse and now her passion is working with the group, I Love Farmers…They Feed My Soul.  Megan looks forward to hearing and sharing people’s stories about agriculture.
Megan graduated from Cal Poly in 2009 with a B.S in Ag Science.  She presently works for the Core Clean Group.
Megan was a Western Bonanza team member from 2004 through 2009 and was a manager in 2008 and 2009 which makes her another “Western Bonanza Lifer”.  

Thank you for your support!
Malorie 
Social Media and Publicity Committee

On 0 comments

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

On 0 comments

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!

~Ashley Coffey

Hi!

My expectations from Western Bonanza this year are to have a great show with a great turnout especially since Bonanza continues to grow every year. I would like to see Bonanza run smoothly from our end and I hope our Media and Publicity Committee can provide our viewers with a constant variety of live stream videos and an array of pictures throughout the whole show to make it feel like everyone is in the action. I can’t wait to watch and help out with the shows and keep everyone updated!


 
-Gina


On 2011-01-19 0 comments

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.

On 0 comments

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.


I don't have any experience in showing livestock so I am super excited to get my boots dirty and be a part of Bonanza this year. I am ready to meet new people and learn all about livestock shows. I can't wait to see how it all comes together and I hope to see you all there on Presidents day weekend!
~Erin

On 2011-01-18 0 comments

Happy Tuesday everyone!
Come one! Come all! Introducing the BRAND NEW Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest! Read below for rules and guidelines! You could be a part of the first ever Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest! If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below on this blog post, or on our Facebook wall!
 
“Thanks for the Memories”
Western Bonanza
Facebook Photo Contest
Have you shown livestock at Cal Poly's Western Bonanza? Was it last year? Was it perhaps 27 years ago? If so, we want your photos! Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show has existed since the birth of a Cal Poly student's senior project in 1985. Since the beginning of the show, times have changed, as well as the conformation of the livestock shown! The “Thanks for the Memories” Western Bonanza Facebook Photo Contest will help bring back the past of Western Bonanza, as well as fuel the future of this entirely student run jackpot show. This contest will begin on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 and conclude on Thursday, February 17, 2011. In order to keep the memories alive from Cal Poly's Western Bonanza, you will have the chance to share your memories in photos on Cal Poly's Western Bonanza Junior Livestock Show Facebook page. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3!
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

On 2011-01-17 0 comments

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

On 2011-01-16 0 comments

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.


Not only have I been involved with cattle but I have also been showing horses for the past 18 years. The disciplines I have shown in are Western Pleasure, English, and currently, Cutting. I am looking forward to my involvement with this show and the opportunities that may arise.

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

On 2011-01-15 0 comments

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.


This is my first year helping with Bonanza and I am excited to be a part of it. I’m eager to see what this year will bring and can’t wait to see what everyone has been working on to get here. The show is right around the corner and it will be here before we know it. I’m looking forward to a fun and very fast month!

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

On 2011-01-13 0 comments

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".



  
 *****
A native of California, Shauna grew up in Redding, a small town in Northern, CA.  She attended Cal Poly 1998 – 2005 where she graduated with a degree in Animal Science.  While attending Cal Poly she was active in many of the Animal Science Enterprises and participated in Western Bonanza for six years! During college she also was a Poly Rep, an Ag Ambassador,  and she graduated from "The World Champion College of Auctioneering". Shauna also started her own jewelry company called Corbett Silver Company. Upon graduation, she went to work for John Rodgers as his “Assistant” where she did everything from shipping cattle to creating purebred female and bull catalogs.  In 2007 she was hired by Allflex USA, Inc. to be their Western Regional Manager where she oversaw all sales and marketing efforts in California, Nevada, and Arizona primarily concentrating on dairy cattle and calf ranches.  In May of 2010 Shauna joined Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica where she is a territory manager selling cattle pharmaceuticals to dairy producers in the Central Valley of California. 

*****
We are very happy to have Shauna speaking to us tonight, and we can't wait to hear from her! Can you? Don't forget to tune into our Livestream broadcast, where you can hear from Shauna LIVE tonight around 6:30pm!

With Much Enthusiasm,
Malorie
Social Media and Publicity Chairperson

On 0 comments

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

On 2011-01-12 0 comments

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 have lived here on the Central Coast my whole life. I grew up in Atascadero where I was active in the Cerro Alto 4-H club. What brought me to 4-H initially was my love for agriculture, specifically in the area of livestock. I showed for ten years at the California Mid-State Fair:  eight years with sheep, and my last two years I showed steers and a heifer. My sheep showing career was highlighted with a 4-H Champion Market Lamb; however, I also loved working with cattle. To get some extra time in showing, my last two years exhibiting I showed in several jackpots...including Western Bonanza!

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

On 2011-01-11 0 comments

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 to serve as a committee chair for the Social Media and Publicity Committee of Western Bonanza. I grew up on a small cow/calf operation in Livermore, CA. I have had a passion for agriculture all my life. I raised hogs, steers, and lambs in 4-H and FFA for eight years of my life. This past summer, showing as a 5th year member of the Livermore FFA, I exhibited the Alameda County Fair Champion Market Hog! It was my greatest accomplishment in showing livestock. Although I only showed my first steer at one jackpot, I really like the livestock show atmosphere. The smell of competition and perfection in the air really makes me happy for the youth who are working hard to showcase their passion:  their livestock. I have served as many offices in 4-H and FFA including secretary and president. I also served the North Coast Region FFA as Vice President my junior and senior years in high school. I served as a charter member of the Alameda County Fair Youth Advisory Group, helping form decisions about the livestock show at my county fair. I have also worked at the Alameda County Fair in the exhibits department the past three summers, and I have assisted with Livestock DNA sample collection facilities at the California State Fair for the past two summers. In 2009 I won the CA FFA State Prepared Public Speaking Contest and placed among the top 16 at the National Contest in Indiana at National Convention. I also served as the 2009 CA Beef Ambassador, and this past year I served as a member of the National Beef Ambassador Team. As a part of that five person team I traveled to eight states helping run various consumer promotion events like the Boston Marathon Beef Booth, the New York State Fair Beef Culinary Stage, and the D.C. Cooking and Entertaining Show. This year I look forward to being a charter member of the National Beef Speakers Bureau, targeting consumers and educating them about the importance of beef in a healthy diet as well as sharing the beef production story. I am also serving as the Cal Poly Young Cattlemen's Committee Secretary this year, as well.

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

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