One alumnus, one newcomer and plenty of show-and-tell were part of this year’s Ag Day at St. Anthony’s School.

All told, 14 presenters took part in the 11th annual event held once again on the school grounds.

“We try to stay away from the petting zoo and give our students as much info (about agriculture),” said coordinator and the St. Anthony’s computer teacher Patti Smith.

She welcomed back former student Gianni Queirolo, who showcased his John Deere tractor.

The newcomer was Jereme Fromm from the nearby Blue Diamond Almonds.

Smith was equally thrilled with Heinz and the 600 tomato plants donated. She employed her family – Chet, Eric, Bryan and Bonnie Smith – to help youngsters with the planting.

This year’s ag presenters also included:

• Amy Dumas of BLM and her burro.

• Marlene of George Perry & Sons with watermelon.

• Jennifer Yeszin with homemade ice cream in a zip lock bag.

• Musco Olives.

• Amy Bohlken of the Manteca Unified Future Farmers of America and her young poultry.

• Dana Shackleton of Pioneer Equipment of Oakdale.

• Stephanie Torres and Erin Smith of the California Department of Water Resources on the state’s waterways.

• Roberta McMurray and Sara Hanks of Cerri Feed Store.

• Marrisa Coleena Fisk of Modesto and her sheep.

• Carl Perry and mule backpacking trips.

• Scott Smith and his horse.

California accounts for 50 percent of the fruits, vegtables, and nuts in the country, according to Patti Smith, who has her degree in Agriculture.

She started the event by modeling it after the one held annually at nearby Shasta School.

Every year, Smith indicated, the St. Anthony’s event gets better.