Resolution declares October as Apple Cider Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Denise Yockey
(800) 456-2753
(Lansing, Mich) – October is officially “Apple Cider Month,” as proclaimed by the Michigan House of Representatives.
State Representative Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township) introduced House Resolution No. 192, which cites several reasons why apple cider is deserving of the distinction, including recent unfair competition from imported Chinese apple juice concentrate.
“Apple cider has a very long history in Michigan, and going to cider mills is a fun event that all family members can enjoy,” said Byrnes. “Cider embodies the essence of fall in Michigan.”
Richard Koziski, president of the Michigan Cider Makers Guild and owner of Dexter Cider Mill in Dexter, said he is thrilled to see state legislators acknowledging the work of cider makers and apple growers across the state.
“Eventually, next year, I hope to see apple cider adopted as the state's official beverage. It is a taste of our heritage,” he said. “Michigan and apple cider could someday become as synonymous as Florida and orange juice – that's my goal.”
Earlier this year, House Bill No. 4704 was introduced by 10 representatives, including Byrnes, designating apple cider as the official state beverage. Although lawmakers have postponed the bill for more urgent state business, Michigan Apple Committee Executive Director Denise Yockey said she considers the Apple Cider Month declaration a nice gesture on the state's behalf.
“Michigan could become the first state to have apple cider as its official drink and we believe it's an excellent fit,” said Yockey. “We produce the nation's finest-tasting cider, which is a unique regional treasure.”
The Michigan Apple Committee is a grower-funded, nonprofit organization devoted to promotion, education and research activities to distinguish the Michigan apple and apple products, and encourage consumption in Michigan and around the world. For more information, visit MichiganApples.com.