Dear Friends,

Winter and early spring was one roller coaster of a ride!  The good news is that except for a few smaller crops, the peaches, cherries, apples and pears appear to have survived the very cold temperatures amazingly well.  On cold nights with calm winds, the cold air sinks to the low land and the temperature is several degrees colder with frost likely.  That can be fatal to the blossoms.  This is why orchards are usually located on the side hills and not in the valleys. 

As I write, the men do not have to look for work…it’s everywhere!  Insects & disease control is underway, new orchards are being planted, peach pruning needs to be completed, strawberry plants are on hand for planting and it’s time to plant the first sweet corn.  This is why planning and work priorities are most important.

We will soon embark on a new venture…”The Brown Bean Café”!  Beyond the bakery....in the sun room, a coffee bar will begin operation in late May.  This was the vision of our son, David, and his wife Mary as it was a usual pleasure near home in Chicago.  Coffee (yes, tea also) and flowers will coexist.  Our new patio deck in front of the market will connect the café.  The Brown Bag will continue to be our lunchroom.  Watch for more information.

Since our family opened the doors of the original fruit stand in January 1948, we have been selling fruits, vegetables and related items to you, our consumer.  I always tell folks that it is a pleasure to offer products we really believe in.  Included in this newsletter is a column about the health merits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.  Our promise to you is that we will continue to offer the freshest and as much locally-grown produce besides our own as possible.  The fruit room and vegetable room that you first enter is our signature room.

With all the heartbreaking news in our country and throughout the world, we invite you back to Brown’s.  Unwind as you roam the market, enjoy the outdoors and relax with our Sunday music and view the lovely countryside.  Walk through our native garden (west of the pavilion), planted in memory of our son, Scott, as it awakens for the new year.  See how it flourishes in late summer.

Hoping to see you often,

Your friend,

Stan