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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2009
Contact: Tracy Polovick
Coordinator of Communications and Outreach
(717) 787-8524
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Vance Program Focuses on Meadowbrooke Gourds

HARRISBURG – The November edition of the Vance Report will spotlight Meadowbrooke Gourds in Upper Frankford Township, said host Sen. Pat Vance (R-Cumberland/York).

The company began in 1994 when Ben Bear, then a produce farmer in Mechanicsburg, grew hard-shelled gourds. He noticed that they dried out at the end of the season and became harder instead of rotting. Bear then took the leftover gourds into his workspace and made some primitive creations, such as a basket and bird house. Because his family liked them, he took them to a cash and carry market where they became popular. The gourds are now shipped nationwide and to a few international locations.

"Meadowbrooke Gourds shows the success an individual can have when he combines an original idea and a smart business plan,” Vance said. "It's amazing that even though the business is off the beaten path, many people visit the retail location, especially in the fall. The expertly crafted gourds make perfect gifts and decorations for the season.”

Vance's show airs on Blue Ridge Communications at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays on Channel 8. Comcast Cable that serves the Shippensburg area will air the program at 4 p.m. on Thursdays on Channel 21. Comcast Cable that serves the Carlisle area will air the show at the same time but on Channel 11. York Community Access shows the program at 9 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month on Channel 16. Finally, Comcast Cable in the Greater Harrisburg area will air the program on Channel 20 with no set time schedule.

Vance's district includes all of Cumberland County and Carroll, Fairview, Franklin, Monaghan, Warrington and Washington townships and Dillsburg, Franklintown and Wellsville boroughs in York County.