HOOD RIVER, OREGON (April, 2002) - It may be easier to define exactly what a Gorge Delights natural pear fruit bar isn't, as opposed to clarifying what it is. The 100% natural Gorge Delights pear fruit bar is made entirely from fruit and has no preservatives, artificial colorings, flavorings or additives. Yet it has a delicious taste, provides a nutritional punch and has a shelf life of up to two years.

• It is nutritious -providing 13% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C - but it isn't just a nutrition bar.
• It is fruity - each bar contains two whole pears - but it isn't just a fruit bar.
• It provides energy - 23 grams of carbohydrates - but it isn't just an energy bar.
• It is wholesome - 100% natural - no preservatives or artificial flavors or coloring - but it isn't just a health bar.
• It can aid in balancing a diet -providing 11% of the daily recommended amount of dietary fiber - yet it is not a diet bar.

The 100% natural Gorge Delight pear bar is being produced by the Willis family, of Hood River, Oregon; who have been growing pears in the Hood River Valley for more than 50 years. Because of growing demand, Gorge Delights is in the process of developing a plant to produce the bars in North Bonneville, Washington, with production expected to begin in October.

The successful launch and marketing of the product will also create a large market for domestic pears, which have seen prices driven down in recent years by cheaper imports. As planned, the plant will require up to 40,000 tons of pears annually to produce enough pear fruit bars for the planned distribution to grocery stores, health stores, convenience and department stores, as well as school lunch programs; and working towards use by the military and space programs.