SACRAMENTO CHEFS, SNIFF DOGS, RODEO QUEENS, FARM ANIMALS TO GATHER FOR CALIFORNIA AG DAY AT THE CAPITOL

Event to take place rain or shine

WHAT:  Ag Day 2011 will paint a colorful picture of California agriculture, an industry whose farmers and ranchers provide food, fiber, flowers and more for all of the Golden State’s citizens and many more around the world. Sacramento-area celebrity chefs will prepare California-grown dishes, and attendees will collect free samples, meet California Rodeo queens, view dairy presentations, and get an up-close look at a variety of farm animals.  The next generation of farmers gets in on the act, too, with Kings County Junior Fair Board members volunteering to greet attendees and assist with the event.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) partners with California Women for Agriculture and the California Foundation for Agriculture in The Classroom to host this annual celebration.  This year’s theme, Agriculture Drives California, highlights the contributions of farmers, ranchers and commodity groups.

WHEN: Wednesday, March 23, 2011, rain or shine
 Open to Legislators and staff 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
 Open to the public 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
 Stage presentation to begin at 12:00 noon

WHO:  CDFA Secretary Karen Ross
 California Women for Agriculture President Celeste Settrini
 California Foundation for Agriculture In The Classroom Executive Director  Judy Culbertson
 Miss Rodeo California Brittany Slaton
 District 3 High School Rodeo Queen Jordenne Burns
 Sacramento Chefs:
 Michael Tuohy, The Grange
 Randal Selland, The Kitchen, Ella Dining Room & Bar, and Selland’s Market
 Patrick Mulvaney, Mulvaney’s B&L and Culinary Specialists

WHERE:  California State Capitol grounds, west steps

WHY:  Ag Day is an annual event designed to recognize California’s agricultural community by showcasing the numerous commodities that are produced in our state—and the farmers and ranchers who bring them to our tables.  It is also a day for the agricultural community to show its appreciation of Californians by bringing together state legislators, government leaders and the public for a half day of agricultural education and treats.

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