Assembly Resolution No. 1594

BY: M. of A. Novakhov

COMMEMORATING Apple Cider Day on September 26,
2025, and highlighting New York's apple industry

WHEREAS, New York State is a leading producer of apples, and its
apple industry plays a crucial role in the state's agricultural economy,
providing fresh, high-quality apples for local consumption and national
distribution; and

WHEREAS, The origin of apple cider dates back to 3,000 B.C. when the
Celts in Britain made the beverage using crabapples; unlike the cider we
know today, this beverage was bitter because it used the local
crabapples that grew in small shrubs; the Roman invasion of England in
55 B.C. brought with it apple cultivators and orcharding techniques;
the harvests from these orchards were then used to make cider; and

WHEREAS, The Norman invasion of England in 1066 introduced acidic
cider apples and advanced apple-pressing technology to make the
juice-extraction process easier; this made cider a popular drink in
England and around the world; and

WHEREAS, Western Europe went through a climate shift between the
14th and 19th centuries called The Little Ice Age, where the overall
temperature dropped, causing grape vineyards to suffer as they needed a
warmer climate; since apples could survive cooler temperatures, cider
became the predominant alcoholic beverage over wine; and

WHEREAS, Due to an increasing market and demand, small farmers
started selling their orchards to commercial cider producers in the 19th
century; these producers then expanded their businesses and revamped old
methods of cultivation to meet the growing demands; and

WHEREAS, Today, the apple harvest season in New York State is a time
to celebrate the abundance of apples and apple-based products, including
cider, pies, and sauces, which are important to the state's agricultural
and culinary traditions; and

WHEREAS, New York State's apple industry is committed to sustainable
farming practices, promoting environmental responsibility and supporting
local economies, while also protecting the health of the land and its
resources; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York recognizes the importance of the
apple industry to its agricultural heritage and continues to support the
growth of sustainable practices in farming to ensure a healthy future
for generations to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate September 26, 2025, as Apple Cider Day, celebrating the
apple industry's role in New York's economy and sustainability efforts.