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First Lady to Promote State's First Maine Apple Sunday

September 2, 2003

Contact:

For Immediate Release Contact: Lee Umphrey, 287-2531

AUGUSTA, MAINE -- Maine First Lady Karen Baldacci will be joined by Maine Department of Agriculture Commissioner Robert Spear and representatives of the Maine Pomological Society on Thursday, September 4th, at 11:00 a.m. to promote the State's first "Maine Apple Sunday," which is scheduled for September 7th, 2003. Mrs. Baldacci will discuss favorite uses of local apples, and with Blaine House chef Heather Hopkins will take part in the preparation of apple crisp and apple sauce.

Pomological Society President (Scott Miller), and Vice President (Marilyn Meyerhans of the Apple Farm and Lakeside Orchard) will discuss the kick-off of Maine's 2003 apple harvest (Maine Apple Sunday) and the different varieties of apples and experiences that can be found at local orchards around the state. The Maine Pomological Society is Maine's oldest agricultural association, dating back to 1873, and is dedicated to the promotion and growth of the apple industry in Maine.

"Maine Apple Sunday" is the official kick-off of apple harvest season in Maine, when over 100 orchards around the state are inviting the public to come to the orchard, a farmers' market, or a local retail store to buy (or pick) fruit right off the tree. The harvest season runs through October or later at most orchards, many of which also press fresh cider, offer picnic sites, hay rides and other on-farm entertainment.

For complete listings of apple orchards around the state that welcome visitors, go to: http://www.maineapples.org or http://www.getrealmaine.com.