CyberMill’s “Ag Project” began as a partnership with Koves-Newlan Vineyard and Winery in 2003-04. During this first year, several groups of kids visited Koves-Newlan Vineyards and Winery to document the process of growing, harvesting and crushing grapes for a well-received digital video production. In doing so, they pruned and then picked over one ton of prime cabernet grapes which Koves-Newlan made into delicious wine and donated 100% to CyberMill. You can purchase it as a “Wine Future” or in the bottle in the Fall of 2005.

The Ag Project 2004-05 (our second year) was a HUGE SUCCESS! We again partnered with Koves-Newlan and added a partnership with Catacula Lake Winery. Another added component of this year’s project was the First Annual “MILLie Awards” competition to recognize youth for their mixed media productions.

To ensure that all kids received an equal chance at winning, we were open daily over Spring Break and offered a number of workshops in photography, graphics, flash animation and digital movie making.

Workshop participants were treated to a series of field trips: First off, an up valley field trip, by chartered bus, to Catacula Lake Winery.
This happened to be a beautiful afternoon to photograph Catacula’s 1,025 acres of beautiful lake and vineyard vistas, the winery and the caves.

We also made two return trips to Koves-Newlan (funded by K-N & the Sato Foundation) so young people could continue learning about the people and technology required to operate a vineyard & winery. Again, great location and good weather provided terrific photographs.

Meanwhile, back at the clubhouse, we invited expert/guest speakers from the agricultural community, graphic design and animation to join us for some great sessions. Sixty students worked diligently to create over 270 contest entries. The DVD of the contest winners will be available in the Fall of 2005.