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Meet the Producer: Jerry Pipitone, Pipitone Farms
Farmer Jerry Pipitone likes to say that he grew up at the Market. Jerry was just a young boy when his family moved to Washington State. On his second day in Washington, his aunt took him shopping at Pike Place Market. Since that day, Jerry has been a devoted fan of the Market.
He and his wife Andrea began selling their organic peaches, apricots, plums, tomatoes and garlic at the Market in 2001, and since that time they have drawn quite a following. Their fruits have become highly sought after and customers await their arrival at the Market with high levels of anticipation
The Pipitones have farmed in Rock Island, located about 13 miles south of Wenatchee, since 1985. Active in their community, they helped to start the farmers market in Wenatchee. Andrea is active in the organic agriculture scene, having served on the Washington State Organic Advisory Board and the Washington Tilth Association.
Ever the optimist, Jerry views what's often seen by farmers as a liability as a real asset. He sees the rocks that cover his fields as another wonderful gift of nature. The incredible flavor of his fruits, he says, can be attributed to the high mineral content of the soil.
In recent years the Pipitone's have built a commercial kitchen on the farm that allows them to make jams and jellies as well as dry their fruit. That way, their customers can enjoy their harvest all year long. You'll find Pipitone Farms at the Market on Organic Wednesdays. |
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