Book Review: The Food Explorer by Daniel Stone

Earlier this year I stopped in for a book signing in Davis, CA at the Avid Reader bookstore.  Daniel Stone was talking about his new book, The Food Explorer:  The True Adventures of the Globe-Trotting Botanist Who Transformed What America Eats.  It was quite insightful to see Daniel Stone in Davis, returning to the town he spent his youth in.  His friends as well as his former farm employer were in attendance.  It was evident from the audience and his subject matter that his exposure to farming had a profound effect on him.  Writing a book about the man who significantly changed United States agriculture was a natural for Daniel.   

The Food Explorer is the story of David Fairchild, the botanist who brought new plants to the US for commercial propagation.  These introduced plants number over 200,000 and include the Meyer lemon, avocados, mangos, hops, vinifera grapes and many types of melons.  Additionally, some of our most cherished plants were introduced by Mr. Fairchild.  The flowering cherry trees that are celebrated in our nation's capital were a treasured, and politically charged, find of this botanist.   He also helped build and improve many of our commercial crops such as cotton, bringing improved strains of it from Egypt.  

This book does a great job of chronicling how David Fairchild became the nation's most important food explorer.  Daniel Stone tells how Fairchild stumbled into plant collection, found his footing in discovering plants, rooted new plants on our soil, and became a pillar of agriculture in Washington DC.  The story includes Fairchild's lucky meeting of a San Francisco bon vivant, Barbour Lathrop.  Mr. Lathrop took Fairchild under his wing and along on his worldwide explorations, all while financing Fairchild's work.  

Daniel Stone also tells about the inner workings of agricultural government agencies and the real problems the farmers of the late 1800's and early 1900's faced.  When Fairchild began his explorations, the US Department of Agriculture was a small agency.  While Fairchild's discoveries were growing, so was the size of the Dept of Ag, with the staff and offices exploding over the course of just a few years.  Farmers had been struggling with scant profits on their crops.  As Fairchild's discoveries took root here, so did isolationist views, and fears of introduced disease and pests.  This book puts that in great perspective, through the view of a plant scientist.  

Many areas of the US have been directly changed by David Fairchild's plant discoveries and propagation.  Florida and California were perfect climates to grow tropical and warm-weather plants that would have withered anywhere else.  His introduction of new varieties of grapes led to the success of the wine industry and the acres of beautiful vineyards we have today.  With his introductions, and successful farming, whole populations of American have been established in new US regions.  

Through his travels and success in plant introduction, David Fairchild was recognized as the most traveled man in the United States.  This gave him a great measure of celebrity.  He was invited to speak to influential groups and to publish his stories in National Geographic and other publications. He met President Theodore Roosevelt, married Alexander Graham Bell's daughter, and was friends with Orville Wright, to mention a few.  

Going to the book signing in Davis was fun for me.  When I attended UC Davis, I was one of the last graduates with a degree in botany.  Now botany has been renamed plant biology.  The average person doesn't know the impact botanists have had on the world around us.  Historically, botanists were included on explorations, asked to settle new colonies and worked to strengthen local environments with plants and their produce.  Having traveled around the world, I have always stopped in the botanical gardens to find out the discoveries and important plants in any country.  So, to read about the exploits and struggles that an early American botanist faced really brought all of my education and experience into perspective.

WineTalent Classifieds: Accounting Manager Ranch and Winery Operations

WineTalent is working with our client, Long Meadow Ranch, on an Accounting Manager position. 

Long Meadow Ranch is a family owned and operated producer and purveyor of world-class wine and food that is economically successful and socially responsible using diversified, sustainable, and organic farming methods. We produce award-winning wines, handcrafted extra virgin olive oils, grass-fed beef, eggs, and heirloom fruits and vegetables.
Long Meadow Ranch has a unique opportunity for an Accounting Manager to join our administration to provide quality customer service to our ranch and winery management team, our business partners, our customers and our vendors. Reporting to the Controller, the Accounting Manager will be responsible for review and forecasting of cash flow, implementation and monitoring of policies and procedures, recommendations for continuous improvement, and general accounting functions for Long Meadow Ranch Partners, L.P. and LMR Wine Estates LLC in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. This position requires ethical conduct and thoroughness, along with critical thinking, attention to detail and time management. 
The Accounting Manager will follow generally accepted accounting practices, adhering to the policies and procedures set forth by the company. 

•  Maintain a comprehensive set of accounting policies and procedures.
•  Prepare journal entries and perform reconciliations in support of monthly and year-end close.
•  Manage daily accounting tasks including: accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, bank reconciliations, and daily banking tasks.
•  Supervise farm production periodic inventory counts and maintain perpetual inventory system for non-financial inventory reporting (tons/lbs/etc).
•  Assist with the budget/reforecasting and cash forecasting processes. Approve and monitor billing activity as processed by the Accounts Payable Specialist. Ensure accuracy of accounts payable coding and work with appropriate departmental manager if billed incorrectly. Record overhead allocations as needed.
•  Ensure accuracy and completeness of LMR Wine Estates LLC direct-to-consumer sales in financial accounting software, reconciling monthly.
•  Record royalty revenue and other intercompany accounting transactions as deemed necessary. 
•  Monitor, track and report on all required external compliance for Ranch entity, including organic certifications, water system compliance, etc.
•  Participate as a team member on key business initiatives, including cost accounting, workflow management, and customer correspondence protocol.
•  Evaluate, recommend and implement policies, procedures and systems related to company efficiency, productivity and internal controls.
•  Solicit and act on feedback from manager, peers, and other business partners. Contribute ideas, energy, enthusiasm and support to the continuous improvement of the process.
•  Other duties as required.

Education, Experience and Requirements
•  Minimum of 3 years of experience in general ledger accounting practices
•  Wine or consumer beverage product accounting experience required
•  Farming and livestock specific accounting experience, a plus
•  Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business or related discipline
•  In-depth knowledge of Accounting Software including QuickBooks
•  Experience with Targit or similar sales and depletion reporting software
•  Experience with ecommerce and POS systems, WineDirect preferred
•  Proficient in MS Office including PowerPoint with advanced MS Excel skills
•  Sharp attention to detail with good oral and written communication skills
•  Able to work in a team environment as well as operate independently
•  Able to lift 40+ lbs
•  Valid driver’s license and maintain a safe driving record
•  A pre-employment background check is required

Compensation and Benefits
•  This is a full-time, salaried position.
•  Competitive compensation depending on experience plus benefits including medical/dental insurance, paid vacation and 401(k).

 

All communications will be kept strictly confidential

 

WineTalent:  The Right People for the Job

WineTalent Classifieds: Member Relations Manager in Napa, CA

Job Opening:  Member Relations Manager with the Napa Valley Grapegrowers.

WineTalent is working with our client, Napa Valley Grapegrowers, on a full-time opening for a Member Relations Manager.  This person will be responsible for the overall development and execution of the organization's membership outreach plan.  The ideal candidate will have a strong sales and marketing background with a proven track record of increasing growth.  Additionally, this person will exhibit exceptional professionalism, analytical and communication skills and strategic thinking. 

To learn more about the Napa Valley Grapegrowers, please visit their website. 

RESPONSIBILITES:

Membership Outreach

·      Develop and manage membership outreach plan to increase membership

·      Host and promote regular meetings and events with current and potential NVG members to communicate the value of membership.

·      Responsible for meeting membership growth and budget goals as established annually

 Member Relations

·        Act as staff liaison to NVG membership

·        Personally meet with and regularly communicate membership benefits with existing members

·        Manage membership database of over 700 members

·        Manage custom web-based CRM platform

·        Manage membership GIS map and update as needed (no prior GIS experience required).

·        Liaise with county Assessor’s office and the Ag Commissioner’s office to maintain current and accurate Napa County parcel data

·        Manage membership dues renewal process and work with the Head of Finance to ensure that accounting and reporting is accurate and timely

·        Assess value for each membership category and make recommendations to enhance membership benefits

·        Manage the members-only section of the NVG website

·        Assist NVG Associate Director to identify and approach members about becoming an annual NVG strategic sponsor

·        Manage the ongoing Board of Directors Liaison program

 Member Events

·      Annual Membership Meeting

§ Work with NVG Executive Director to develop the meeting agenda and overall presentation program

§ Work with Committee Chairs on individual presentations

§ Create power point presentations for each Committee Chair, and upload to laptop

§ Manage the creation of the meeting packets for attendees

§ Work with NVG Event Manager on member takeaway gifts

§ Work with NVG Event Manager on overall timeline, food & beverage needs, AV requirements, etc.

§ Prepare all follow up thank you letters and membership communication

·      Work with the Marketing & Communications Committee in the development and execution of the NVG Social Club

·      Work with NVG team and committees to develop new member events and programs to increase value and benefits of membership

 Member Communications

·      Work with the Marketing & Communications Committee to fulfill the membership objectives of the Marketing Plan

·      Maintain & order inventory of NVG membership collateral materials

·      Provide input on weekly Grower Bulletin newsletters as they relate to communicating benefits of membership

·      Prepare and send membership correspondence

 Provide general support to the Board of Directors and the Executive Director

·      Prepare monthly Board of Directors membership report

·      Prepare biannual Board of Directors membership presentation

Service the goals and objectives of the NVG Strategic Plan

Miscellaneous administrative duties and event support

QUALIFICATIONS:

• ·      At least 5 years in related position
• ·      Superior writing and verbal communication skills
• ·      Experience or interest in Napa Valley winegrape growing
• ·      Highly motivated work ethic and organizational skills
• ·      Strong interpersonal skills and an outgoing personality
• ·      Advanced abilities to create, maintain, and report budgets
• ·      Demonstrated success managing accounts and performing analyses
• ·      Proficiency in Excel and Word. Experience with CRM and/or database tools a plus
• ·      Experience with the sales and management of a luxury brand a plus
• ·      Ability to assist with event set up, breakdown, and coordination
• ·      Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• ·      Clean driving record with the California DMV

ALL INQUIRIES WILL BE KEPT COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL.  PLEASE EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO AMY@WINETALENT.NET TO BE CONSIDERED.

Book Report: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver

This past week I sneaked away for a bit to visit the heartland and see my son's graduation from Army Basic Training.  Heading out to Missouri, I also tucked away a book in my carry-on.  I had started up Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver a few weeks ago, but homelife and work outcompeted for my time.  My mother, a reader who devoured the book in under a week, wholeheartedly endorsed the book.  She does have a knack for finding just the right book for me to read,  and I vowed to finish the book during this trip.

Seeing my son after 10 weeks was such a thrill.  He stood taller, acted so respectfully and still loved his family.  Time stood still for the moments my family had together with him, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time with him.  But all great things come to an end, and our son shipped off for Norfolk, VA and we headed back home.

Diving into the book again, it was ironic that I had just come from the frigid winter Missouri just started.  This California girl has lived out of state only two times, first for a few months in North Carolina and then for 3 years in Indianapolis, Indiana.  I've had a little taste of cold weather and life outside of the Golden State; but I decided long ago a small taste was all I wanted and quickly moved back to California.  Now I live in California's Central Valley, often called the salad bowl of the United States.  That's because of our temperate, mediterranean climate and acres of year-round farming.

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle is the Kingsolver family's experience living off of the land in southern Appalachia, an area we gardeners would probably think of as USDA Hardiness Zone 7, with the first frost coming on November 15th and the last frost on April 15th with a low of -15 degrees C (5 degrees F) for the year.  That's much colder than here in California, but warmer than Missouri.  So, with winter quickly approaching, reading about her family's experience living off the land for a year was quite interesting.

Life Similarities:  I have to say that this book may have me peering at myself through a different geographic and generational lens.  Barbara and her family have a rambling, wooded country property with about a 3,500 square foot garden plot.  She has gardened throughout her life, and grew up in the south's tobacco country on a farm.  She has planted asparagus, leafy greens and various other plants at her residences throughout her adult life.

I too grew up on rambling country plot with an extensive garden plot with orchards, a chicken-house and the occasional goose, turkey or goat around the yard.  My parents went "back to the land" and built their own house and established gardens wherever something would grow.  That required good soil, WATER, and sun.  We ate homegrown produce throughout the year, and preserved as much of the bounty as possible.  As an adult, I've owned my own garden nursery company, had a greenhouse and always keep a small kitchen garden.  Right now my citrus trees are producing their first crop and my bees are buzzing contentedly in their hive.  Homemade preserves line my pantry and my freezer is stock full of tomato puree and pesto.

While Kingsolver has built a livelihood around her writing, I have had the good fortune of building a livelihood within the agriculture business.  The wine business is quite glamorous in many regards, but it is still an agricultural one.  Farmers deal with the elements, plan harvests and manage their land the best they can.

Farming Trend:  In the last few years we have had a boon of "back to the farm" converts.  The word locavore was the New Oxford American Dictionary's Word of the Year in 2007, which ironically is the year this book was published.  Farm-to-table dining is all the rage today.  My hero Michael Pollan hooked me with The Botany of Desire, kept me reading his next books and now I keep coming back for his Netflix documentary series Cooked.

Teaching others about agriculture:  As Barbara Kingsolver discusses, educational gardens are popping up all over.  Probably about 15 years ago I spearheaded a school garden project here in Sacramento with the intention of allowing urban children to learn about growing food.  This garden is  now one of 54 school garden sites in the district,  and an incubator for sustainable and green projects within the district.  I do want to give complete credit for the vibrancy of the project to the School Garden Director, a woman who tirelessly raises funds and provides educational opportunities to Sacramento City students throughout the area.  I may like to start a garden, but it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to keep a garden going.

Working in Agriculture:  Working with wonderful farmers and vintners is very rewarding, and brings me very close to the production of food and wine.  Working on roles in agricultural operations, vineyard management and farming brings me up-close and personal with the people who produce the food and wine we eat.  These are all very talented and passionate individuals.  They live the farm-to-table movement on a daily basis.

Yearning for my own piece of heaven:  So reading Animal, Vegetable, Miracle was quite engaging.  And I have to say a bit envy-causing.  Today I don't live on a big spread where I can walk the dog and check for morels on the back 40.  I can no longer run to the chicken house to get the eggs.  Luckily, my chicken soup no longer has feathers in it like when I was growing up, but that was delicious chicken soup!

Perhaps Animal, Vegetable, Miracle would have seemed more earth shattering if I'd picked it up right upon publication.  But reading it now, I enjoyed the contrast of farming in California versus Virginia, and my children are close in age to the ages of Barbara Kingsolver's children when she wrote the book.  My 3rd grader would love to raise chickens for profit, and my older children are active in sustainable endeavors including beekeeping, falconry and brewing (brewing may be more of a local play, but still quite suitable for the locavore movement).  Thinking it over when I planned to write this, I decided I was just jealous of Kingsolver's garden.  I want to finish up this post and run out in my lettuce fields to weed them and then go check on my hens.  But I can't do that.  I'm envious.


A consolation prize may be the recipes her family included in the book.  Loving to bake bread as I do, her husband put in some notes on how to quickly bake bread for the family.  And her daughter put in several recipes.  Tonight I'm trying the Pumpkin Soup in its Own Shell, using my Halloween cinderella pumpkin I picked up at Cool Patch Pumpkins, less than an hour away.  Read the book, try to eat local and see how you can make it work for yourself.  You just may see a bit of yourself in the book, like I did.