RODALE NEWS, EMMAUS, PA—When you love apples—especially organic ones—
you won't let a little rain get in your way. That much was evident Saturday in Kutztown, PA, as hundreds of people flocked to the first annual Organic Apple Festival at the Rodale Institute. The event at the Institute, a nonprofit group that teaches farmers around the world how to convert from chemical to safer organic growing methods, offered visitors the chance to pick organic apples, learn how to make apple cider, and peruse products from local vendors.

The event was organized by Maya Rodale, great-granddaughter of Institute founder J.I. Rodale and daughter of Rodale Inc. CEO Maria Rodale.

Farm-fresh, organic apples are hard to come by, and Maddie knows it. "Mine!" she roared from her stroller as someone attempted to swipe an organic apple from the half-bushel of fruit sitting in front of her. She was among the youngest of several hundred people Sunday who braved the rainy weather to pick apples, play games, and learn about organic agriculture. Did you know? Organic apples contain about 35 percent more healthy antioxidants than the chemically farmed apples you're most likely to find in your grocery store.