While many industry events are canceled, Eastern Produce Council has reveled in a couple annual outdoor events that enabled members to attend safely during a pandemic.
The 6th annual Joe DeLorenzo Family Apple-Picking Event on Oct. 3 drew about 100 people — “about the same as last year,” said Susan McAleavey Sarlund, EPC executive director. The event was at Melick’s Cider Mill and Orchard, Oldwick, N.J.
The day was almost better than last year because it was so hot in 2019, said Deanna Keefer, daughter of the event’s namesake, as her children ran in circles around her and her sister, Gina Lucia.
“My dad was all about family,” Keefer said. “Family was No. 1. We’re honored they keep his memory alive and do this every year.”
About 40 members of Lorenzo’s family attended, they said.
“I remember he’d tell us how to pick produce. He was obsessed,” Lucia said. “I’d call him from the store, and ask, ‘How do I pick a cantaloupe?’”
Macoun, empire, golden delicious, red delicious, cortland, and jonagold apple varieties were available for picking.
Hay rides at the orchards were available, or participants could meander the rows at leisure.
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