From Becky Steinbruner, Community Matters
July 17, 2026
http://shows.zbsradio.com/20260717/404e7a78316823e.mp3
Today’s Guest on “Community Matters” (2pm-3pm Pacific Time) on KSCO Radio is Mr. Freddy Menge, a well-known local fruit farmer who, with his partner Ellen Baker, have been growing a wide array of apples and other tree fruits, and operate Epicenter Farm. https://santacruzfarmersmarket.org/vendors/epicenter/
Freddy and Ellen have for years organized an Annual Apple Tasting event for the public to explore and enjoy tasting about 100 varieties of apples. they also are active in the local chapter of the California Rare Fruit Growers.
The overall agricultural sector in the county is valued at approximately $1.6 billion, with apples being one of the keynote crops.
However, with the recent news of Martinelli not renewing contracts with apple farmers in the Pajaro Valley, what will the future hold for Santa Cruz County farmers?
Listen in on your radio AM 1080 or to the live stream from http://www.ksco.com/
Calls from the audience will be at Freddy’s discretion as the Guest.
Monterey Bay Matters 