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Woodridge, Illinois

I think the GPC rules for qualifying for the 4,000 lb club (or any weight for that matter) need to be amended. As I understand it,the rules state that a grower must weigh qualifying pumpkins at 3 separate GPC events. For some growers this is not possible due to work schedules, distance, etc... It's my opinion that as long as a grower enters 3 undamaged pumpkins at any GPC event, weighing a total of 4,000 lbs., and that he or she grew those pumpkins, he/she should be recognized for having successfully done so. Not attending 3 different GPC events does not negate the accomplishment. Again, just my opinion.

9/18/2015 8:35:54 AM

Germany

You are not alone with your opinion :-)

Next step would be to argue that those who can afford a bigger patch (thus more plants) statistically increase their odds of getting 3 pumpkins with a total weight of above something. Making things a bit more equal for all growers would then result in a rule which allows only 3 pumpkins grown on the same plant, total weight above...???, and the plant must be attached to the pumpkins and should be cut off just before entering the scales. This would automatically allow 3-fruits-1-weigh-off things only.
Ok, I see, most growers wouldn´t want to do that ;-)

9/18/2015 8:45:43 AM

Wi

So here's another way to look at it. If you bring all 3 of your pumpkins to one event that that means you didn't attend 2 other GPC events. The GPC isn't just awarding your for 4000#, but also also awarding you for participating in 3 of their events which keeps the hobby growing.

So not attending 3 events does not negate 4000#. Attendance at 3 events is a way for the GPC to get something in return for giving you a 4000# award.

9/18/2015 8:56:33 AM

Woodridge, Illinois

I think adding an additionl entry fee would take care of that. After all, you are still weighing all the fruits at a GPC event, isn't that participating? I think the rule unfairly excludes those who simply can't attend 3 events.

9/18/2015 9:29:36 AM

Western NY

The GPC isn't collecting an entry fees from growers, that entirely a local site requirement.

As Chris pointed out, there is more to the award than growing the three pumpkins. It is also a benefit to weighoff sites to join the GPC, as they may be able to entice growers who are looking for that second or third weighoff site to enter.

9/18/2015 9:38:25 AM

NE Arkansas

I see the point in growing things... we need a 700 lb or 750 lb club for melons!!! That way the southern guys still have a goal cause its impossible to get 4000k with kins in this heat.

9/18/2015 10:01:56 AM

Home of happy lil plants

Not impossible just highly unlikely for me to get all 3 to the scale in one piece, technically I can have a gpc weigh off in my side yard for the cost of the gpc prize pack/dues and getting a certified scale and loading means so those really oddball places with several growers may even want to add a weigh off date

9/18/2015 11:45:03 PM

Home of happy lil plants

Melons I always thought of a 500 lb club for 2 melons

9/18/2015 11:47:21 PM

Rhode Island

its been my experience that the gpc executive board has always had the growers interest at heart.
i kinda like the melon club thing for those southern growers because their climate is more favorable to watermelons rather than pumpkins.
pap

9/20/2015 7:25:31 AM