Dear Friends,
As I sit to write, how sweet it is! Nona's on the computer in our den as I relax in my recliner. Our simulated wood stove is crackling nearby and soft piano music plays in the background. My notebook's in hand. Any bets as to how long until I doze off?
Unfortunately, I begin on a sad note. Mike Lecrone, our long-time orchard worker who truly loved growing fruit, passed away this fall after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He had a wealth of experience and knowledge, an admirable work ethic and a talent to fix anything! His loving wife, Lucille, continues as a part-time employee. We all miss Mike's broad smile and familiar salute... his boots will be difficult to fill.
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This year, we harvested the largest crop of apples in our history! Plentiful supplies are stored and with weak wholesale prices, we are treating our shoppers to apples at 62 cents a pound during January and February. That's the number of years we've been growing! We hope you'll be encouraged to use more of our versatile and nutritious all-American fruit. From eating them out-of-hand to baking, salads, applesauce, sweet apple cider and more, the value of the apple can't be beat! It's loaded with vitamins, fiber and 0% fat. What a pleasure to offer a product we whole-heartedly believe in!
Whenever possible, it's my joy to roam our sales floor, chatting briefly with many of you. 30-year friends from Syracuse, NY still come annually to get a big load of Loring peaches. One couple that drives monthly from Delaware has discovered our wines and is offering high praise. Two couples from Hanover regularly meet in our coffee bar to lunch and play cards. At our "North" store's greenhouse eating area, we've even seen folks knitting! There, our son Dave, managers Steve and Peggy and staff enjoy chatting with you, too!
We enjoy and learn from your comments – both those left in our suggestion boxes and those you choose to you share with us in person. Yesterday, a kind lady came up to me and said, "Whenever I visit Brown's, it's like a hug!” How heart-warming is that!
Brown's has welcomed visitors from all over the world! This year, the North American Farmer's Direct Marketing Association (of which we are members) will be holding its annual conference in Lancaster. Not only will Dave and I be speaking, but it will also be Brown's honor and pleasure to host bus tours of markets on February 7th. We're looking forward to meeting farm marketers from all over the U.S. and beyond. No two are alike...all have their own commodities, sizes and personalities.
When I next write, spring will be around the corner. Although it's with mixed emotions as years are flying by too quickly, as a grower, I look forward to each new season with enthusiasm. Until then, stay warm and enjoy those apples! As always, all of us at Brown’s thank you sincerely for the opportunity to serve you.
“Apple-y” yours! Your friend, Stan
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