Agri-Culture’s 16th Annual Progressive Dinner Deemed a Success

The educational organization, Agri-Culture, held its 16th Annual Progressive Dinner in tannery, trains and timber style.

The purpose of Agri-Culture is to educate the public about local agriculture in Santa Cruz County and the Pajaro Valley. This year’s theme was “Northern Exposure”. Each year the event sells out with 100 guests transported via buses to three different locations not normally open to the public.

The hors d’oeuvres were served at the Tannery Arts Center, welcomed by Rachel Goodman. Guests were given tours of the facility and told of its historical connection to agriculture.

Dinner was served at Cal Poly’s Swanton Pacific Ranch, welcomed by Gordon Claassen. The guests were immediately whisked away on a magical train ride through the beautiful north coast forest. After dinner, Gordon spoke about Al Smith’s gift to the University and how students are benefitting from the ranch.

The dessert location was Big Creek Lumber, welcomed by Janet Webb. Janet spoke about the local timber industry and the history of Big Creek Lumber. Later, guests were treated to boxes of local produce.

The many guests included: Ted Burke, owner of Shadowbrook Restaurant; Judge John Gallagher and his wife Peg; Mary Anne Carson of Santa Cruz County Bank; Ginny Solari Mazry; Supervisor-Elect Zach Friend and his wife Tina; Bill Resetar; Susan and Tom Am Rhein, Vice President Naturipe; Maria and David Vasquez; Agri-Culture President, Bill Ringe; Brian King, President of Cabrillo College, and board member of Agri-Culture, served as Master of Ceremony and attended with his wife Cristina. Nita Gizdich sold the raffle tickets.