Better late than never, but I am finally blogging about my last day at the North American Farmers Direct Marketing Conference. In my previous blog, I mentioned an inspirational speaker named Brad, who taught a day long workshop about bringing lighted-heartedness into the work place. As the opening speaker on Thursday, he had the whole room laughing and ready for the day ahead. At one point, we even gave a standing ovation to a lady who was returning from the restroom. This made her day! Remember...whether you are at a conference or on your farms, you can make someones day...help them create a story!
After a morning full of laughter, I attended my first session. Once again folks, I am preaching about the use of social media! IT IS NOT GOING AWAY...YOU NEED TO BE USING IT! Facebook, Twitter, Four Square, and Blogs are the new newspaper. One point that I found very interesting is that if you are not using these to advertise your business, someone else is. Who would you rather have telling about your business you or someone else? I know word of mouth is the best tool, but you need to monitor what is being said. Four Square may be the newest of the four forms of social media I just mentioned. Four Square allows individuals to earn "badges" for the places they attend. For example, if I visit your farm, the GPS setting on my phone would know that I am there and I would earn points for being at "Elm Grove Farm." The individual who visits the most will be named the mayor of that location. If nothing else, go on Four Square and register your business, so people are not registering it for you.
BONUS IDEA: When people visit your farm...take a picture of the family in front of your sign. Make sure your contact information is also on your sign. Tell the family the picture is free to them. You post it on Facebook. They have to "like" your page to see it and then they will tag themselves on it. Not only do you get more fans on your page, but also all their friends see the "Jones" Family having a great time at your farm!
The final session I attended was a story about making decisions on your farm. The main points that I took from this workshop:
1. It's okay to disagree with the experts. It is your farm, sometimes your gut instinct is correct.
2. Stand up for what is right. In the example this farmer gave, the town was trying to regulate what he could sell in his market. He fought against this and won and now has a very successful business.
Now it is time to take this home to the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. Goodbye city life! Look for us to share our agritourism ideas at the West Virginia Small Farms Conference!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Your husband called...he said you can buy anything you want!
I spent today in a session called "Laugh-O-Nomics." As the name would apply, this was a great, fun session. The workshop focused on using humor and fun in the workplace to increase productivity. There are small gestures that can be used to create a lightened atmosphere in the workplace. The heading of this blog, "Your husband called...he said you can buy anything you want," is a sign that hangs in one of markets of a participant in today's workshop. When people walk in, they automatically feel light-hearted feeling that we want to produce in our markets. Small things can really boost attitude in the workplace. Some ideas were hanging up bulletin boards where employees can post jokes, cartoons, etc., place a funny picture on the wall and have each employee add a caption, or simply challenge employees to small contest. Happy employees often transfer into happy customers. Customer Satisfaction is Key!
I cannot write this blog without sharing the activity we did today. We were broke into groups of five and each person in the group was given two balloons. Each group was then given a box of Cracker Jacks, and we had to find the prize. After finding the prize, you decide what letter it starts with. For example, if my box has a crab, I have to use the letter "C." We then had to create something using the balloons that started with the letter "C." My group tied with another group for the win! We created a Cranky Crown of Correction. We decided that if an employee had a bad attitude, they would have to wear the crown! Trust me, you can't put this thing on your head without immediately feeling uplifted! Be creative in your own businesses. Do you hire teenagers for summer employment? Do they think everything is "lame." Ask them for advice, value their opinion, and make them feel a part of the team. Have rituals that use to change negative behaviors and reinforce positive behaviors. Create an atmosphere where fun is not just allowed, it is encouraged!
This is our last night here in Baltimore, and although it has been a fun, educational experience, I can't wait to return to the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. For the last time, good night from Baltimore!
I cannot write this blog without sharing the activity we did today. We were broke into groups of five and each person in the group was given two balloons. Each group was then given a box of Cracker Jacks, and we had to find the prize. After finding the prize, you decide what letter it starts with. For example, if my box has a crab, I have to use the letter "C." We then had to create something using the balloons that started with the letter "C." My group tied with another group for the win! We created a Cranky Crown of Correction. We decided that if an employee had a bad attitude, they would have to wear the crown! Trust me, you can't put this thing on your head without immediately feeling uplifted! Be creative in your own businesses. Do you hire teenagers for summer employment? Do they think everything is "lame." Ask them for advice, value their opinion, and make them feel a part of the team. Have rituals that use to change negative behaviors and reinforce positive behaviors. Create an atmosphere where fun is not just allowed, it is encouraged!
This is our last night here in Baltimore, and although it has been a fun, educational experience, I can't wait to return to the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. For the last time, good night from Baltimore!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
"Don't tell me what you learned. Tell me how you are going to act differently" -Drucker
Do you remember as a kid when you did something wrong how your mom and dad would ask if you were ever going to do it again, and you always replied, "No?" Five minutes later as soon as they turned around you would do it again. It is so easy for us to say we are going to do something, but to actually match our actions with our words tends to be a challenge. Today our speaker, Dr. Richard J. George, offered some excellent advice and inspiration to the participants in this years conference. His workshop, "Get Close and Stay Close With Your Customers," talked about what customers are looking for, how to maintain customer satisfaction, and why the small markets and agritourism farms have the advantage over large businesses. He said, "If Mike Tyson came up and asked you how you wanted to settle a fight, you would not say boxing...you would challenge him to chess." Small businesses have to know their strengths and use them to their advantage. It may be impossible to compete with Wal-Mart prices, but the farmers market offers something different. Don't just sell the product, sell the experience!
This morning I attended and judged the website, radio jingle, and TV commercial contest. Each attendee was allowed to submit a ballot. It was a consensus among the crowd that websites are no longer an option, they are a necessity. Did you know: The average person spends 5 HOURS A DAY using social media. No folks, this is not a misprint. We must be advertising our businesses through social media. Facebook, Twitter, Google Map, Blog Spot, You Tube, etc...these are your resources...USE THEM! When it comes to any kind of advertising remember it is first important to choose your target audience. I noticed today that the people from different generations had different opinions concerning which websites, radio jingles, and TV commercials should win. When you are advertising make sure to uphold the aesthetics of your business. I enjoyed the websites that were created in such a way that when I clicked on them I got the same feeling I would if I were actually at the farm.
I attended two round table discussions today. The first round table discussion was on cook books. There was one great idea that stuck out in my mind. Wine Pairing Cookbooks. The wineries are working to make cookbooks that include foods that can easily be paired with their wines. This would be a great item for wineries to market with their products. Also, many businesses pair wine tasting with luncheons or dinners. Two programs that were mentioned today were "Wine and Dines" and "Relax and Un-Wine." For the "Relax and Un-Wine" program, the owner paired with a yoga instructor to teach a class and then have a tasting. BE CREATIVE! The second round table I attended was about Agritourism Ideas. I think I will save that one until after my workshop at the WV Small Farms Conference. There are many great ideas I have to share! Sneak Peak: One of my favorite ideas...CORN SAND BOXES. Instead of sand, you fill a box with corn and provide the kids with shovels and toy farm equipment!
Tomorrow, I have a full day workshop called "Laugh-O-Nomics." I am not sure what this will include, but it should be entertaining.
Good Night from Charm City!
This morning I attended and judged the website, radio jingle, and TV commercial contest. Each attendee was allowed to submit a ballot. It was a consensus among the crowd that websites are no longer an option, they are a necessity. Did you know: The average person spends 5 HOURS A DAY using social media. No folks, this is not a misprint. We must be advertising our businesses through social media. Facebook, Twitter, Google Map, Blog Spot, You Tube, etc...these are your resources...USE THEM! When it comes to any kind of advertising remember it is first important to choose your target audience. I noticed today that the people from different generations had different opinions concerning which websites, radio jingles, and TV commercials should win. When you are advertising make sure to uphold the aesthetics of your business. I enjoyed the websites that were created in such a way that when I clicked on them I got the same feeling I would if I were actually at the farm.
I attended two round table discussions today. The first round table discussion was on cook books. There was one great idea that stuck out in my mind. Wine Pairing Cookbooks. The wineries are working to make cookbooks that include foods that can easily be paired with their wines. This would be a great item for wineries to market with their products. Also, many businesses pair wine tasting with luncheons or dinners. Two programs that were mentioned today were "Wine and Dines" and "Relax and Un-Wine." For the "Relax and Un-Wine" program, the owner paired with a yoga instructor to teach a class and then have a tasting. BE CREATIVE! The second round table I attended was about Agritourism Ideas. I think I will save that one until after my workshop at the WV Small Farms Conference. There are many great ideas I have to share! Sneak Peak: One of my favorite ideas...CORN SAND BOXES. Instead of sand, you fill a box with corn and provide the kids with shovels and toy farm equipment!
Tomorrow, I have a full day workshop called "Laugh-O-Nomics." I am not sure what this will include, but it should be entertaining.
Good Night from Charm City!
Monday, February 7, 2011
The Proposal
This morning I received an exciting phone call from a really good friend of mine informing me that last night she got engaged. This obviously is wonderful news! During my bus trip today, I had a lot of time to think about this and how it applies to our West Virginia farmers. How many of you have been looking to take the next step in your farm or business, but have continuously talked yourself out of it? What are you waiting for? Sometimes, we have to jump and take that next step in order to be successful. This three day bus tour has opened my eyes to the importance of keeping your enterprise fresh and reaching out to customers. I "propose" that if you have been thinking about taking that next step in your business, that you do your research and jump into that next stage. Often times without risk, there is no reward.
With that said, I had another full day on the road. First stop was Linvilla Orchards. This operation has a lot to offer its customers. When I stepped off the bus, I was greeted by a red dog mascot. They often use things such as this to entertain kids. There are four owners within the business, and their many talents shine through on their farm. One of the sisters has an art degree, and it truly shines through on all the displays, as well as the playground. The family has had their share of challenges. They recently had their octagonal barn burn down. It is the family's desire to rebuild this unique symbol of their farm. The farm has a garden center, market, and many other things to offer. The media coverage they get is incredible! They often are featured on their local news stations. Remember: Advertising is powerful!
My second stop of the day was Milburn Orchards. I was really impressed with their "Barn Buddies." They had several goats and had built ramps for them to play on. They offered the quarter machines to buy corn and feed the animals. They had a nice walking trail that created boundaries for kids to stay in. The "Boo Barn" was also a feature of this farm. Haunted barns or trails are often to scary for small children. The "Boo Barn" allows children to walk through a haunted barn without as much scary stuff. For example, within the barn they have fake stuffed spiders and bats. I loved that they had a "School Tour Store." Kids on school tours often only have five dollars to spend. The problem is, if they do not understand money, they pick up more expensive items. So, what if there is a store with only five dollar and under items. This helps to eliminate the children choosing items outside their budgets. The trash cans on the farm were extremely cute! They were painted like Holstein cows, and then had either udders or cow faces on the lids. They said, "Keep our farm udderly clean." This encourages visitors to throw trash in the cans. Little touches often mean the most!
Richardson Farm had the most updated facilities on the tour. They had only been open a short time. They provided a grocery store style atmosphere, but offered fresh products. They also have an on site greenhouse. One thing that is incredibly impressive is they make their own ice. They have huge a huge ice maker machine, which supplies all their produce cases. They also raise turkeys each year and have their own deli.
The final stop of the bus tour was Weber's Cider Mill. I liked this stop, because the moment you walked into the market you just got a good country feeling. The children playground was also impressive. Straw or hay mazes seem to be a popular agritourism activity. They built a bridge over their hay maze to make it easier for parents to monitor children while they were in the maze. I also had the opportunity to explore their cider manufacturing facility, which was very impressive.
I am now back in Baltimore! The tour was very enjoyable and educational, and I am looking forward to seeing what the rest of the conference has to offer. I have had great conversation with people from diverse backgrounds. Agritourism can be successful! Whether you have 5 acres or 500 acres, this can work for you!
With that said, I had another full day on the road. First stop was Linvilla Orchards. This operation has a lot to offer its customers. When I stepped off the bus, I was greeted by a red dog mascot. They often use things such as this to entertain kids. There are four owners within the business, and their many talents shine through on their farm. One of the sisters has an art degree, and it truly shines through on all the displays, as well as the playground. The family has had their share of challenges. They recently had their octagonal barn burn down. It is the family's desire to rebuild this unique symbol of their farm. The farm has a garden center, market, and many other things to offer. The media coverage they get is incredible! They often are featured on their local news stations. Remember: Advertising is powerful!
My second stop of the day was Milburn Orchards. I was really impressed with their "Barn Buddies." They had several goats and had built ramps for them to play on. They offered the quarter machines to buy corn and feed the animals. They had a nice walking trail that created boundaries for kids to stay in. The "Boo Barn" was also a feature of this farm. Haunted barns or trails are often to scary for small children. The "Boo Barn" allows children to walk through a haunted barn without as much scary stuff. For example, within the barn they have fake stuffed spiders and bats. I loved that they had a "School Tour Store." Kids on school tours often only have five dollars to spend. The problem is, if they do not understand money, they pick up more expensive items. So, what if there is a store with only five dollar and under items. This helps to eliminate the children choosing items outside their budgets. The trash cans on the farm were extremely cute! They were painted like Holstein cows, and then had either udders or cow faces on the lids. They said, "Keep our farm udderly clean." This encourages visitors to throw trash in the cans. Little touches often mean the most!
Richardson Farm had the most updated facilities on the tour. They had only been open a short time. They provided a grocery store style atmosphere, but offered fresh products. They also have an on site greenhouse. One thing that is incredibly impressive is they make their own ice. They have huge a huge ice maker machine, which supplies all their produce cases. They also raise turkeys each year and have their own deli.
The final stop of the bus tour was Weber's Cider Mill. I liked this stop, because the moment you walked into the market you just got a good country feeling. The children playground was also impressive. Straw or hay mazes seem to be a popular agritourism activity. They built a bridge over their hay maze to make it easier for parents to monitor children while they were in the maze. I also had the opportunity to explore their cider manufacturing facility, which was very impressive.
I am now back in Baltimore! The tour was very enjoyable and educational, and I am looking forward to seeing what the rest of the conference has to offer. I have had great conversation with people from diverse backgrounds. Agritourism can be successful! Whether you have 5 acres or 500 acres, this can work for you!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Goodbye Skinny Jeans....Hello Agritourism!!!
After having fresh pineapple and bagels at Reading Market, my first experience with Apple Cider donuts, and wonderful lasagna at Johnsons Corner Farm, I am truly convinced of two things. First of all, if I eat like this everyday I am going to need a whole new wardrobe, and secondly, WV farmers need to sell Apple Cider Donuts!
My morning began with breakfast at the Reading Market. I was fortunate this morning to get to sit at a table from a gentleman who does Pick Your Own outside of London, England. He was great to talk to.Then, it was on to Shady Brook Farms. It was incredible to see beautiful blooming flowers in the middle of winter. The market managers also did an incredible job preparing special exhibits to highlight their holiday items. Within the market, customers not only find a functional gardening center, but they also offer wine tasting. Below is a picture of some of the beautiful flowers that were growing in the garden center. The market had a beautiful layout. Everything was clearly labeled, and they offered several value added products.
Terhune Farms has a lot to offer their guest. The number one thing...Apple Cider Donuts. Okay, they offered a lot more than that. I was really impressed about the programs this farm sets up for children. It was really exciting to hear about their farm day camp programs, treasure and scavenger hunts, read and pick, and many other programs for children. They have a bakery, market, and produce many fresh fruits and vegetables. Their labeling system for products was fantastic. Within the market if the product is something grown on the farm it is marked with a red tag, if it is organic it has a green tag, and other purchase produce has a yellow tag. This allows consumers to easily identify locally grown products. They also focus on an open door policy. The doors to the cleaning and grading room is left open, so customers can see the produce being washed. The owners of the farm were very welcoming and gave a great tour!
Johnsons Corner Farm provided us with delicious lasagna for lunch. This operation is incredible. They have two separate trails, one for the public and one for school children. The family operates a pick your own operation and holds different festivals and events. They reminded me how important it is to use your resources. The farm has limited parking, but they are across the road from the local high school. They let the high school use their parking during games and other events. The high school then lets them use the over 200 space parking lot to accommodate their guest during festivals and other events. The whole farm is beautiful with all the buildings painted to match their theme. Each visitor has the opportunity to have a hay ride to pick their own crops. The barn style market and gift shop is a definite must see. Below you can see a picture of the center pieces from dinner.
Finally, Cindy and I had the opportunity to visit the Liberty Bell. I also got to see the foundation of the house where our first two presidents lived. It's very humbling to be in a place that is so important to our American history. With that said, below is a picture of Cindy and I at the Liberty Bell. You will notice that I have taught the Cindy the official pageant pose! In case you are wondering who I am cheering for in the Super Bowl...I would have to say the Packers. Neither team in the Super Bowl is my usual NFL team. It is with deep regret that I have to admit my team has always been the Dallas Cowboys. Embargoing after this past season. But, between the Packers and Steelers, I choose the Packers due to an incident last year when the Steelers game was shone in place of my usual Dancing With the Stars. I still hold the grudge. Which would you rather see a Hail Mary to the inzone or the Cha Cha Cha? I think it is very obvious which is better! With that said, tomorrow we travel our way pack to Baltimore, and I am looking forward to our next visits. Sweetdreams from Philadelphia!
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My morning began with breakfast at the Reading Market. I was fortunate this morning to get to sit at a table from a gentleman who does Pick Your Own outside of London, England. He was great to talk to.Then, it was on to Shady Brook Farms. It was incredible to see beautiful blooming flowers in the middle of winter. The market managers also did an incredible job preparing special exhibits to highlight their holiday items. Within the market, customers not only find a functional gardening center, but they also offer wine tasting. Below is a picture of some of the beautiful flowers that were growing in the garden center. The market had a beautiful layout. Everything was clearly labeled, and they offered several value added products.
Terhune Farms has a lot to offer their guest. The number one thing...Apple Cider Donuts. Okay, they offered a lot more than that. I was really impressed about the programs this farm sets up for children. It was really exciting to hear about their farm day camp programs, treasure and scavenger hunts, read and pick, and many other programs for children. They have a bakery, market, and produce many fresh fruits and vegetables. Their labeling system for products was fantastic. Within the market if the product is something grown on the farm it is marked with a red tag, if it is organic it has a green tag, and other purchase produce has a yellow tag. This allows consumers to easily identify locally grown products. They also focus on an open door policy. The doors to the cleaning and grading room is left open, so customers can see the produce being washed. The owners of the farm were very welcoming and gave a great tour!
Johnsons Corner Farm provided us with delicious lasagna for lunch. This operation is incredible. They have two separate trails, one for the public and one for school children. The family operates a pick your own operation and holds different festivals and events. They reminded me how important it is to use your resources. The farm has limited parking, but they are across the road from the local high school. They let the high school use their parking during games and other events. The high school then lets them use the over 200 space parking lot to accommodate their guest during festivals and other events. The whole farm is beautiful with all the buildings painted to match their theme. Each visitor has the opportunity to have a hay ride to pick their own crops. The barn style market and gift shop is a definite must see. Below you can see a picture of the center pieces from dinner.
Finally, Cindy and I had the opportunity to visit the Liberty Bell. I also got to see the foundation of the house where our first two presidents lived. It's very humbling to be in a place that is so important to our American history. With that said, below is a picture of Cindy and I at the Liberty Bell. You will notice that I have taught the Cindy the official pageant pose! In case you are wondering who I am cheering for in the Super Bowl...I would have to say the Packers. Neither team in the Super Bowl is my usual NFL team. It is with deep regret that I have to admit my team has always been the Dallas Cowboys. Embargoing after this past season. But, between the Packers and Steelers, I choose the Packers due to an incident last year when the Steelers game was shone in place of my usual Dancing With the Stars. I still hold the grudge. Which would you rather see a Hail Mary to the inzone or the Cha Cha Cha? I think it is very obvious which is better! With that said, tomorrow we travel our way pack to Baltimore, and I am looking forward to our next visits. Sweetdreams from Philadelphia!
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Saturday, February 5, 2011
Let Freedom Ring......
After crowding the lobby of the hotel in Baltimore it was amazing how so many people could load 7 tour busses and head out but we did, on time. As Danielle mentioned yesterday, I'm on the "Crabs" bus but we are certainly high tech crabs with a new Twitter page this evening, iPads and our own mobile internet port. One of the great things about this bus tour is that we are truly a school on wheels sharing stories about agriculture operations from California to Arizona, Toronto, Canada, Massachusetts and West Virginia plus all points in between! We've had breakouts about technology, special events and staffing with lots more to cover in the next two days. It is a creative and entrepreneurial group!
Our first stop was Cactoctin Mountain Orchard in Thurmont, MD. A diverse orchard, vegetable grower and farm stand, we were treated to snacks prepared in their bakery, an explanation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices by the local Extension agent and a view of their extensive composting operation done in conjunction with local and county officials. Though foggy and rainy, it was easy to see this operation is popular with families. Their most unique crop--kale!
Our first stop was Cactoctin Mountain Orchard in Thurmont, MD. A diverse orchard, vegetable grower and farm stand, we were treated to snacks prepared in their bakery, an explanation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices by the local Extension agent and a view of their extensive composting operation done in conjunction with local and county officials. Though foggy and rainy, it was easy to see this operation is popular with families. Their most unique crop--kale!
Our next stop was to Hollabaugh Brothers Fruit Farm & Market in Biglerville, PA. This extensive family operation includes wholesale fruit, orchard operations and a retail stand. They partner with a local history provider who has developed an Underground Railroad feature and we entered the Civil War period in the middle of the orchard complete with an actor. Very nice touch and a great example of collaboration. Their farm stand was especially prepared for our group (they are usually closed this time of year) and featured an extensive learning room with beekeeper displays and information on their IPM practices. We walked up to the wholesale building in the cold storage area where we were treated to a terrific lunch ending with peaches from the farm.
We've arrived in Philadelphia and browsed through the Reading Terminal Market. Tomorrow Danielle heads to Shady Brook Farm, Terhune Orchards, and Johnsons Corner Farm. I'm off to Terhune orchards, Shady Brook Farm, DelVal College Market and Rose Bank Winery. We'll rendevouz in the afternoon at the Liberty Bell Park and celebrate our country's root right before dinner in Downtown Philly and the Super Bowl...wonder where we'll end up and who we'll be rooting for? Check back tomorrow for our activities and find out whose side we are on.
Agritourism Tour...Aye?
When Lincoln wrote the Gettysburg address, he began the speech by talking about the journey our country had taken since the Revolutionary War. Today, I started my own journey upon the "Gettysburg Express" to learn more about agritourism. My day began with a buffet style breakfast. This may seem like a normal conference activity, but for me it was my first chance to hear someone from Canada use the popular phrase, "Aye." I may have been slightly over excited about this. (Jeanie, if you are reading this...don't worry I did not embarrass the state by saying something like "you just said Aye.") Another highlight to my breakfast was being asked if I was a coal miners daughter after they realized I grew up in West Virginia. I had a great time meeting and talking with new people!
Our first stop on our way to Philadelphia was Butlers Orchard. This was a interesting place with a lot to offer their customers. Not only does the orchard have their own farmer's market, but they also have pick your own, a bakery, and events that are held annually. Many times farmers in the agritourism industry struggle to find activities in the spring. Butlers Orchard holds "Bunnyland" each year to bring visitors to the farm at this time of year. Of course kids can expect to see the Easter bunny and participate in egg hunts, but there also many more agriculture activities to get everyone involved in. Apparently, tube slides are a very popular attraction. The owners and employees were very hospitable and offered all snacks and drinks. This is a great place to visit!
CRUMLAND FARMS...THIS WAS SO COOL!!!
I think it is incredible how they use a piece of old farm equipment to create something that would be attractive to children, but teach them about the equipment at the same time. On the back side of the picture above, they have cut out a hole and a slide goes down the back. It has all the controls inside for the children to see. West Virginia Farmers, how many of you have old, obsolete equipment that is rusting in the field? I really love that this farm does a Christmas light show. Their Christmas light pig and horse were on display for us to see. They also have a 4th of July event, as well as many others. They had a great playground and just really used their resources well.
I actually heard Abraham Lincoln speak today! Okay, so it may have been an impersonator, but he was still incredibly knowledgeable about our 16th President's life. Our next stop along the way was Gettysburg Visitor Center. I was really sad to not be able to spend more time here. We had lunch at the visitor center, but did not have time to tour. On the bus I did win a prize, because I answered the most questions correctly about the Gettysburg Address!
Our final stop on the tour was Adams Winery. Some unique things about this winery are the classes they provide. They offer both wine tasting and wine making classes. They have a tasting area and a nice gift shop. The people here are very friendly. They also have a designer on site to make personalized labels for the wine. GREAT FOR WEDDINGS! A picture of the bride and groom with there wedding theme on a bottle of wine make great value added products! They also have a rescue dog that greets people. They were very friendly and informative.
I am now at the Marriott here in Philadelphia. We are right across from the Reading Market. This market is huge. There is lots of food and lots of chocolate. The one downfall would definitely be whole cooked ducks (complete with their heads) hanging in the market. I guess this WV girl is going to have to teach them how to field dress a duck! :-) (I know they are supposed to be that way). Until tomorrow...goodbye from Philadelphia!
Our first stop on our way to Philadelphia was Butlers Orchard. This was a interesting place with a lot to offer their customers. Not only does the orchard have their own farmer's market, but they also have pick your own, a bakery, and events that are held annually. Many times farmers in the agritourism industry struggle to find activities in the spring. Butlers Orchard holds "Bunnyland" each year to bring visitors to the farm at this time of year. Of course kids can expect to see the Easter bunny and participate in egg hunts, but there also many more agriculture activities to get everyone involved in. Apparently, tube slides are a very popular attraction. The owners and employees were very hospitable and offered all snacks and drinks. This is a great place to visit!
CRUMLAND FARMS...THIS WAS SO COOL!!!
I think it is incredible how they use a piece of old farm equipment to create something that would be attractive to children, but teach them about the equipment at the same time. On the back side of the picture above, they have cut out a hole and a slide goes down the back. It has all the controls inside for the children to see. West Virginia Farmers, how many of you have old, obsolete equipment that is rusting in the field? I really love that this farm does a Christmas light show. Their Christmas light pig and horse were on display for us to see. They also have a 4th of July event, as well as many others. They had a great playground and just really used their resources well.
I actually heard Abraham Lincoln speak today! Okay, so it may have been an impersonator, but he was still incredibly knowledgeable about our 16th President's life. Our next stop along the way was Gettysburg Visitor Center. I was really sad to not be able to spend more time here. We had lunch at the visitor center, but did not have time to tour. On the bus I did win a prize, because I answered the most questions correctly about the Gettysburg Address!
Our final stop on the tour was Adams Winery. Some unique things about this winery are the classes they provide. They offer both wine tasting and wine making classes. They have a tasting area and a nice gift shop. The people here are very friendly. They also have a designer on site to make personalized labels for the wine. GREAT FOR WEDDINGS! A picture of the bride and groom with there wedding theme on a bottle of wine make great value added products! They also have a rescue dog that greets people. They were very friendly and informative.
I am now at the Marriott here in Philadelphia. We are right across from the Reading Market. This market is huge. There is lots of food and lots of chocolate. The one downfall would definitely be whole cooked ducks (complete with their heads) hanging in the market. I guess this WV girl is going to have to teach them how to field dress a duck! :-) (I know they are supposed to be that way). Until tomorrow...goodbye from Philadelphia!
Friday, February 4, 2011
All aboard the Gettysburg Express!!!
For the next couple of days I hope to be blogging about my trip to the North American Farmers Direct Marketing Conference. Today Cindy and I made the trip from the rural country of West Virginia to the big city of Baltimore...at least it seems to be a big city to a girl who grew up forty five minutes from Wal-Mart. For the next three days we will be on separate bus tours and spending our nights in Philadelphia. I am pleased to announce that I will be on the bus tour called the "Gettysburg Express." Gettysburg is one of our many stops on this three day tour of some great farms. Get ready for some new ideas!!! Cindy will be riding on the "Crab" bus. I think she is in for an interesting week after seeing her tour guides wearing crab claw hats this evening as she registered. My tour guides seemed much more normal, they were wearing Abe Lincoln hats. We just had dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, and Cindy had the opportunity to catch up with her former 4-H director. Hopefully, in the next few days I will be able to offer many great pictures and new ideas. Good Night from Baltimore!
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