Thanks to a generous donation by Nancy Webb, the San Juan Island Grange was able to purchase an electric fruit crusher and hydro press. The grange is looking forward to sharing the equipment with islanders.

“We will have the equipment available in the future for both pressing parties at the grange and, for people with a large volume of apples, to use at their home or farm,” Bruce Robison, chairperson of the San Juan Island Grange’s Agricultural Support Committee, said. The first cider pressing day will happen just in time for Halloween, Oct. 30 from noon to 3 p.m., Those with apples or pears, email Robinsons at brobinson@rockisland.com to make an appointment.

“If the response is overwhelming (too many participants for the timeframe), we will repeat the offer,” Robinson said.

In fact a second one is already in the works. The grange is working with 4H to coordinate a cider pressing tentatively set for Nov. 6.

The trick to a good cider, according to Robinson, is to pick the apples when they are ripe (not too early) and don’t let them dry out before pressing. Of course, the real key is “Enjoy it with friends,” Robinson said.