[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 174 (Friday, December 14, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE BISHOP FAMILY AS THEY RECEIVE THE MASS MUTUAL 2001 FAMILY 
                       BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 13, 2001

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to congratulate an outstanding family and my good friends, the Bishops 
of Guilford, Connecticut as the recipients of the Mass Mutual 2001 
Family Business of the Year Award. This remarkable family has been a 
fixture of the Guilford community for nearly 400 years and we are all 
proud to join with them as they celebrate this very special occasion.
  Connecticut has a long and proud history in agriculture and our 
famous fruit orchards have become a highlighted attraction for 
visitors. From picking your own fruits and vegetables to learning the 
intricacies of the perfect apple cider, our orchards offer an unique 
view into one of our nation's oldest industries. The Bishop family has 
run Bishop Orchards since its establishment in 1871. Today, the 
families of brothers Albert and Gene Bishop preserve this New England 
treasure while expanding the business to meet the needs of today's 
consumers. With three hundred acres lined with apply, peach, and pear 
trees, the Bishops continue to work hard to ensure the success of the 
orchards.
  Located on the shores of the Long Island Sound, Bishop Orchards 
captures the spirit of New England. The Bishop family, recognizing the 
importance of preserving its natural beauty, were one of the first of 
our local farmers to initiate an integrated pest management program, 
significantly reducing the pesticides and chemicals used in the 
orchards. Integrated pest management programs utilize alternative means 
of pest control to ensure successful crops while protecting the 
surrounding ecosystem from harm. While more labor intensive, setting 
traps for bugs and pest will ensure that the orchards and the 
surrounding environment will be enjoyed for generations to come.
  There is more to the Bishop family than their business--they are an 
integral part of the Guilford community. They have long been involved 
in the Town of Guilford, holding a variety of positions on local town 
boards and demonstrating a unique commitment and dedication. Many 
members of the Bishop family have also participated in statewide civic 
and agricultural organizations. In fact, Jonathan Bishop was recently 
appointed to the USDA Farm Service Agency State Committee, where I am 
sure he will work hard to ensure the continued stability and protection 
of Connecticut farmers.
  The Bishop family has left an indelible mark on our local community 
and I am proud to join the Center for Family Business and their many 
friends and family in congratulating the Bishop family as the 2001 
Family Business of the Year.

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