Sue Quaresma did not grow up in the dairy industry, she married into it.  In fact, up until the year 2000, she was a radiation therapist.  Sue's husband, Raymond, is a third generation dairy farmer - his grandfather started back in business in the 1930s.  Since joining her husband in the family business, though, she's learned a lot about the dairy industry and concedes that, "it just gets into your blood."  According to Sue, being a California dairy producer is a "way of life" and she couldn't be prouder of the product they produce.

The Raymond and Sue Quaresma Dairy is located on 250 acres in Manteca, CA.  In total, the Quarsemas have 4,200 animals on their family farm - 2,000 of which are milking cows.   The majority of their cows are Holstein, but they also have 200 Jersey cows.   Cow comfort has always been a priority for Raymond.  The Quaresmas constantly ensure that the alley ways are clean, there is a new layer of straw in the stalls and that the cows enjoy plenty of open corral space during the summertime.  They also pay special attention to their maternity cows and always ensure that the baby calves are well taken care of.

"Most people don't realize the intensity it takes to run a dairy.  It takes a lot of time and care and we really treat our cows like they are a part of our family."  Sue adds, "Not only are the cows part of our family, but so are our employees.  Several of our seventeen employees have been with us for many, many years."

Sue and Raymond's three children grew up helping on the family farm during summer and school vacations.   Some of Sue's favorite memories are from the State and County Fairs they attended with the cows.  "After showing the cows, the kids would each curl up with their favorite cow in the stall on the straw with a blanket," recalls Sue.   "Like I said before, we treat the cows like they are family."

Not surprisingly, Sue's favorite food is cheese.  In fact, she said she could live off eating cheese and crackers for dinner every night!  Her favorite "Baked Brie" recipe was passed on to her by her friend Tanya.  It's simple to assemble and always a favorite a parties.   Enjoy!

Tanya's Baked Brie Cheese

Wedge of California Brie Cheese

Mix together ½ cup of brown sugar, chopped Granny Smith apples, dried cranberries, sliced almonds cinnamon and a little butter

Slice Brie in half, layer with mix and re-assemble top of cheese

Add remaining mix on top of the cheese

Melt in oven at 350 degrees for 15 minutes