Monday, February 14, 2000

In this Issue:

Pear Day 2000


CPAB Board Meeting -- March 9 9:00 am -- Embassy Suites - Napa

"A Journey of Change" was the theme for this year's Pear Day, held on January 28, 2000 at the Heidrick Ag History Center in Woodland, California. CPAB joined forces with California Pear Growers (CPG) to coordinate the half-day event, filled with guest speakers, presentations, and a tour of the center's own Antique Ag museum. The annual event provided pear growers and industry members the opportunity to learn and discuss industry issues, while socializing with colleagues and friends.

Guest speaker Richard De Burgh, President of the California School Food Service Association (CSFSA), began the program with an informative presentation on the marketing potential for California Bartletts in the school lunch program, and the steps he is taking to increase the usage of pears in this venue. He pointed out that with a school lunch program of more than 26,000,000 students in California alone, California pears has great potential for success in this market. Terry Barton, CPG President, continued the discussion, providing information on 3 pilot programs CPG is working on in conjunction with CSFSA.

Chris Zanobini presented a 1999 season overview, which highlighted the specifics of the California pear crop, and provided a graphical comparison of the Bartlett crop over the last decade. The focus of the presentation was on CPAB marketing and promotion activities, research and pest management programs, as well as the ongoing statistical and web-site updates. The presentation included a pictorial journey of the Past and Present California Pear industry, noting the advancements made in recent years, and reminding us how many things still remain the same.

CPAB also created "California Pear Jeopardy," and was delighted to have Michael Marks, Your Produce Man from KOVR-TV Channel 13 and HG-TV as host. Marks entertained the audience with his wit and wisdom on the pear industry, while three lucky contestants tested their knowledge on pear related topics. This contest to earn the most points was won by Jerry Cordy of Pacific Coast Producers, who took home the title of "Pear Jeopardy Champion" and a champion trophy. Broc Zoller and Anne Thomas were our second and third place winners, each earning a trophy for their participation. This exciting new addition to Pear Day earned rave reviews by attendees, receiving the highest rating out of all program activities.

Attendees relived the marvels of agriculture while visiting the Heidrick Ag History Center's Antique Ag museum. This one-of-a-kind agricultural exhibit features the Fred C. Heidrick Antique Ag Collection - the world's largest collection of antique agricultural equipment, and the Hays Antique Truck Museum - the largest of its kind in the world. Additionally, luncheon speaker Lewis Baumgartner, the "World's Worst Farmer," provided humorous tales of the farming's ups and downs from his own farming experiences on his ranch in Fulton, Missouri. These combined made the perfect addition to the event program and theme.

CPAB would like to thank everyone who attended this year's event, and hopes that the new format and venue gave way for the opportunity to learn about today's pear industry. It was with you, combined with the event's informational and entertaining program, that made Pear Day 2000 "the best ever!"


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