TAMPA, FL 33634 www.watermelon.ag

the Fall 2016

Official Newsletter of the NATIONAL WATERMELON ASSOCIATION

Labor – Labor – Labor. We need labor to do just about anything and everything in our world of farming, packing and shipping. Where we get it, and how, are seemingly daily challenges and an ever-common occurrence. Government regulations and audits add to the mix, and are designed to assure that employers are doing the right things for the work- ers. None of this is new to us, but it is a growing proposition nonetheless.

The editorial column attached is written by a friend, peer and colleague – Tom Nassif, President & CEO of Western Growers. Tom has been at the forefront of the labor debate both in Washington and California for many years, and he is (in my opinion) a voice of sensibility and sound advice. His sentiments are spot-on with what is happening today. We will continue to monitor any new developments, and address them accordingly. Stay posted, and enjoy the reading. Responsible Labor

By: Tom Nassif – President and CEO, Western Growers Standards

In December 2014, the Los Angeles Times published noble aspirations and should be standard practice for all son was quoted in the same article as saying, “I tru- a series of articles exposing widespread labor abuses farmers. I am confident these principles already guide ly believe there are EFI farms that will go union.” on some Mexican farms that supply produce to the the operations of our members wherever they farm. In light of all this activity, the boards of directors of United States. This type of “investigative journalism” Beyond the progressive and strict federal and state PMA and United Fresh have formed a Joint Com- often ignores positive examples that would lessen labor rules governing the employer-employee relation- mittee on Responsible Labor Practices. This com- the dramatic impact of the negative ones, and that ship in the United States, our members recognize that mittee has been tasked with evaluating appropriate may have been the case here. Nonetheless, the Times they are bound by a higher moral law that requires worker treatment across the supply chain, “poten- series was alarming and, for the American companies vigilant attention to worker safety and social justice. tially leading to an industrywide, global approach to that purchase from these farms, it was reminiscent of And they act to ensure both are achieved. responsible labor practices.” similar exposés of mistreatment at foreign factories supplying American retailers everything from clothes Our members have faced a proliferation of third party We recognize the significance of this committee to toys. For activist groups, the stories provided new audits relative to food safety, and while we know these and support PMA and United Fresh in their effort to leverage. are costly and sometimes questionable pursuits, our develop higher standards for foreign producers, where growers have endured. So why not embrace another labor laws and practices are nowhere near as rigor- Not surprisingly, the large retailer and restaurant third party “certifier” like EFI? ous or consistently enforced as in the United States. buyers of fresh produce are seeking to inoculate However, we have some reservations about the process themselves from further criticism. We’ve seen this As I noted earlier, the EFI’s chairman is a UFW vice and its potential outcome for domestic growers. The before. Several years ago, the Coalition of Immokalee president. This cannot be glossed over. The UFW rep- Joint Committee initiative is co-chaired by executives Workers (CIW) emerged in Florida following critical resents a tiny fraction of the farmworkers in the West, from supermarket and foodservice companies; Western media coverage of wages paid to tomato harvesters in and their attempts to force thousands of farmworkers Growers and other grower-centric organizations were that state. With its Fair Food Program, the CIW has into a union the workers didn’t vote for, and would excluded at the outset. I have spoken to Tom Stenzel effectively used protests, boycotts and strikes to moti- have likely decertified but for a union-allied state Ag- and Bryan Silbermann, the presidents of United Fresh vate buyers to adopt their social responsibility agenda. riculture Labor Relations Board, speaks to the reality and PMA, respectively, and I am encouraged by their Retailers like Subway, Whole Foods and Walmart that workers are well-compensated, treated fairly and commitment to take our concerns seriously and to work now impose a human rights-based code of conduct on resent being forced to give up 3 percent of their pay to with us to avoid unintended consequences. Still, it many Florida farms. the union for nothing. The UFW is also in financial seems likely that buyers will ultimately determine the distress, as evidenced by their repeated pleas to the outcome. More recently in the West, the Equitable Food Initia- California Legislature to use taxpayers to bail out their tive (EFI) has emerged as a developer and verifier of union health plan. Along comes the EFI, and a chance All of this is to say we believe organizations represent- labor standards for farmworkers. The organization is for the UFW to employ a top-down strategy to infiltrate ing domestic growers must lead this effort on the do- now moving to entice, or pressure, key supermarket our farms and our employees. mestic front. To that end, the Western Growers Board and restaurant chains to recognize EFI certification as has directed our staff to promotedomestic standards for a condition for their preferred suppliers. To date, nine Don’t believe me? This is from The Bakersfield Cali- responsible labor practices with a particular focus on farms covering 3,000 workers in California, Wash- fornian’s coverage of the UFW’s recent convention: the Western states. Working with other organizations ington, Mexico and Canada are EFI-certified, with 10 “Under what’s called the Equitable Food Initiative, the we will base our standards on a foundation of existing more farms pending certification. At least one major farm worker union is partnering with some of the biggest federal and state regulations, which already create the retailer has so fully embraced EFI that it recently intro- names in the retail food industry to improve the lives of most stringent worker protection system in the world. duced Arturo Rodriguez, president of the United Farm the people who pick and pack produce consumed here Our intention is to promote a farmworker labor stan- Workers union, to the company’s produce suppliers and abroad.” I added the emphasis to highlight the fact dard reflective of the best practices currently in place with the message that the suppliers would need to that UFW President Arturo Rodriguez intends to go by growers in California and other Western states. We work with the UFW to become EFI-certified. (A UFW global, and plans on leveraging the EFI to do so. believe this approach will most efficiently facilitate vice president is chairman of the EFI executive board.) confidence in the domestic supply chain and provide No one would argue that producing safe food, ensur- While none of the EFI-certified farms are currently buyers (and their critics) with adequate assurances that ing a safe work place and treating workers fairly, are unionized, UFW National Vice President Erik Nichol- their U.S.-grown fresh produce is responsibly sourced. 2 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 3 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

the

National Watermelon Association, IInc.nc. 190 Fitzgerald Road• Suite #3 • Lakeland, FlFloridaid 3338133813 (863) 619-7575 office • (863) 619-7577 fax www.watermelon.ag The VinelineVineline is publishedp quarterly by the National Watermelon Association, serving our members Nationwide since 1914. All rights reserved, except where otherwise noted. Printed in the USA. To subscribe or to change the address of a current mailing, please call the Association office in Lakeland.

Subscription rates: USA and Canada, no charge to Association members. All others, U.S. subscriptions, $30.00 per year (U.S. Dollars); Canadian Subscriptions, $40.00 per year (U.S. Dollars); Other foreign subscriptions, $50.00 per year (U.S. Dollars). All Statements, including product claims, are those of the person or organization making the statement or claim as it’s own, and any such statement or claim does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. Publisher - National Watermelon Association • Layouty - www.rubberneckerdesign.comg

Giumarra Companies LOAD DONORS Phil Turner Farms Global Produce Premier Melon Agraian Farms Glory Farms Prime Time International B&K Farms H.C. Schmieding Reid Groves Farms Big Chuy Hoosier Fresh Farms Saikhon Company Browning & Sons Jackson Farming Company Southern Corporate Packers C&S Farms Jackson Farms SunState Produce Cactus Melon Kids Choice SunTerra Produce Capital City Fruit Kirschenman Enterprises Sweet Mama Produce Celli Brothers Land Watermelon Sales Texas Melon Exchange Coosaw Farms Leger & Son Tucker Family Farms DMC Farms Melon 1 Van Groningen & Sons Diamond 99 McMelon, Inc. Vincent Farms Eagle Eye Produce Melon Acres Wabash Valley Growers Frey Farms Mesilla Valley Produce Warren Produce George Perry & Sons MGM Farms Wiggins Farms Gibson Produce Mouzin Brothers

CASH LOAD DONORS And all nine of our Watermelon Chapters: Bagley Produce Keith Connell Produce Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illiana, MarDel, North Borders Melons Wiggins Watermelons LLC Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Western

4 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 5 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

T he 2017 National Watermelon Association Convention will be held at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe in Incline Village, NV. Lake Tahoe’s only lakefront hotel with private beach is situated on 26 acres in Tahoe’s tranquil North Shore, offer- ing breathtaking views and close proximity to world-class skiing and recreation. From our acclaimed Stillwater Spa, 24-hour Casino gaming action and Camp Hy- att kid’s programs, to the newly renovated guestrooms and year-round heated lagoon-style pool, Hyatt has every amenity for the discriminating traveler.

To make your hotel reservations for this picturesque lodge style resort go to https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb. do?mode=welcome_ei_new&eventID=13828477 or Call 775-832-1234 Keyword: Watermelon The Reno airport is located 34 miles (50) minutes from hotel. For shuttle from the airport to the resort North Lake Tahoe Express provides this service for, One-Way $47 per person or Round Trip $88. Please call or visit their site for information and reservations. All reservations must be made 24 Hours in advance! http://www.northlaketahoeexpress.com (866) 216-5222 6 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 7National • the Vineline Watermelon Association • Spr ing 2012 National Watermelon Associationthe Vineline • Fall 2016 • 19

AlabamaNational RReporteport

WhatGreetings a fantastic from the promotionalAlabama Association! tour our Queen Carla What a great day at Bell Elementary, thank you ! A picture with 3 of my girls, Katelyn, Carla and our sponsor Penney The 32nd has annualhad this Alabama year, backWatermelon to back Association promotions Brandi Harrison allConvention season. wasCarla held is inback February in school at the andBeau the Rivage promo - tionsResort have in Biloxi, slowed Mississippi. somewhat. The Iconvention will again was attempt full of fun, excitement, and even karaoke! This year was a to touch on the highlights of her tour through the A visit to great success and a special thank you to all the sponsors: Phil Turner’s pictures. She has loved every promotion and it is packing Allen Lund Company, Billy Smith’s Watermelons, Inc., shed, Phil Sr. evident in the photos. This amazing promotional and Phil Jr., Clifton Seed Company, Genecco Produce, International thanks to the tourPaper would, LTF Greenhouses, not be possible McMelon, without Inc, theMor helpgan W ofood all Turner fam- Visit with our sponsor Dan Thomas at the Diamond 99 office ily for your herProducts, sponsors. National Special Watermelon thanks Association, to the following National spon - hospitality sorsWatermelon for this Promotion portion ofBoard, her amazingRockTenn, year. Sakata Seed, Visiting Queens, contestants, board members and special guest after the auction at the AWA convention. Sunny Fresh, Valdosta Plant Company, and Williams An amazing group of “has beens!” DiamondManis Produce 99 sponsorsMarketing. Bell Thank Elementary; you all for making our convention not only possible, but a great success. Kendra There areKennedy a few more and people Intergro, who received farm visits,awards for their hard work, generosity, and support. Mr. Terry NewberryJones, Southern Watermelon Quality Shippers Festival received Pageant the King Buyer Award and Mr. Rantz Smith, Smith Farms of Bell, Special thanks to the Harrison family for your gracious hospi- Carla at the Newberry parade BrandiInc received Harrison the King and Donor Intergro; Award. Ray Newberry Gilliland of tality, and to Kendra and Brandi for sponsoring us. Queen Ann-Marie receiving her beautiful watermelon jewelry ParadeRay Gilliland and MelonsArcadia received Festival the LifetimeAuction Achieve- from the AWA board. ment Award. Mrs. Corliss Smith of Billy Smith’s Wa- Floridatermelons Watermelon received the Jan Association; Ware Award. MrFox. Jay 4 WFTZ;Jones of Sakata Seed received the Outstanding Service Award. In field TV coverage; Packing shed coverage Newly crowned Queen Amber with her sponsor, Mr. Billy and Thank you all for your dedication the association, it is Mrs. Corliss Smith. greatly appreciated! Ribbon One last cutting farewell ceremony to the 2011 Cordele; Alabama W atermelon We enjoyed educational farm visits with some of Kendra’s The Morning Blend Fox 4 WFTX films in the field CordeleQueen, Miss Watermelon Ann-Marie Urrutia. Festival A special Pageant thank and you vis - customers, pictured is BJ Wilkerson of Wilkerson Farms in its;for allGlobal your hard Produce work and , Al dedication, Wroten; over Greg the pastLeger, year . Trenton LegerYou have and represented Son; Frasers the Alabama Auto Association with great pride and elegance! Ann-Marie has been an out- Patrickstanding representativeAFB Commissary, for our association. Raymon InLand, addition, Land thank you to all that helped make her year so special. Watermelons Queen Ann-Marie and Queen Katelyn, Congratulations on We had four outstanding young women compet- Nationals Katelyn! Carla Heath ing for the 2012 Alabama Watermelon Queen position. Sands of WALB Deland Watermelon Festival, Melon 1, Bob TV Albany, GA Miss Meghan Patterson of Thorsby, sponsored by Sunny Carla and Katy visit with Amber Nolin Smith 2013 National 2nd runner up,interviews Leah Knight, Queen Amber, and 1st runner up Gibson,Fresh, Miss Gibson Leah Knight Produce of Berry sponsored by Mc- Watermelon Queen after the Newberry Watermelon pageant Queen CarlaMeghan Patterson Melon, Miss Amber Nolin of Enterprise, sponsored by NWPB;Billy Smith’ Fresons Watermelons, and Miss Jaime Minor of BrosMuscle Shoals, sponsored by Gulf Seed. Congratula- tions to Miss Amber Nolin on your new role as the 2012 Supermarkets, All the beautiful contestants ready for evening gown Alabama Watermelon Queen. Miss Amber is the 20 competition. Another segment Northern Alberta at the Melon1 year old daughter of Greg and Renea Nolin. She lives Arcadia office, Canadain Enterprise area and attends Enterprise Sate Community The girls are parade Carla and Katy ready in Newberry! on the air College.

NWPB; Amber Mediaand I are both very excited to get this year Queen Kimberly, Queen Whitney, Queen Amber, Queen Ann- coveragestarted. We Toronto will be attending the Florida Watermelon Marie, and Queen Katelyn Sponsor Carrie Thomas with daughters Ashlee and Alaina at area;Convention Longo’s on March 23rd-25thBell Elementary. in Tampa, Carla and KatyFL. spoke Follow- to each class during career day. Supermarketsing that Amber will attend the Queen Training hosted by the National Watermelon Promotion Board, visit elementary schools, attend watermelon festivals, and Contestants getting tips on the seed spit competition from Mr. Jeff Garrett. Wecomplete have aso farm much tour . Amber is eager to start her year leftlearning to share about for and promoting watermelons. next printing! Carla enjoys a visit with Phil and Shirley Turner during the Chef Justin creates some fantastic watermelon dishes Warmest Regards, Arcadia auction. EleanorKatie Eubanks T Bullock NWAPromotions Promotion Coordinator Coordinator334-237-0600 [email protected] 229.322.9933 Queen Amber with Mr. Kelley and Mrs. Jean Marinaro [email protected]

Carla is a guest on WSST with Phil in Cordele Carla Contestantsthanks the Melon ready 1for group, opening Trey, number Katelyn. and Rachel for Carla helped with the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Cordele the beautiful necklace they purchased for her at the auction Watermelon Festival

With Affirmed, Bold Ruler and Citation, Growers across the country are enjoying the benefits of wide adaptability, high yield, excellent uniformity and sweet flavor.

A Winning Line-up! www.sakata.com © 2012 Sakata Seed America, Inc. 8 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 9 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

National Pictures

Carla visits with Al Wroten of Global Produce, thanks for your Carla’s parents, Carlene and John Penney and niece Stella attend sponsorship

Carla did a fabulous job on the Morning Live TV show in the Toronto area!

Thanks to Frasers Auto, Mike and Renee Fraser Thanks Melon 1, Rich and John for their support, for helping sponsor during a visit to the Cordele office

Carla assist her sister, Water- melon Capital Queen, Caitlin Penney with emceeing the Watermelon Capital pageant, where Carla also Andi, Katy Mae, Carla and Juliemar in one of the Downtown entertained Toronto Longo stores, thanks NWPB, and Juliemar

We caught up with Bob Gibson in Arcadia, thanks for your support!

Greg Leger of These Longos Watermelon Eating Champs in Toronto love Leger and & Son our Carla visits with Carla at his Cordele office, thanks for your Taylor and Stephanie Fraser chat with Caitlin and Carla fol- support lowing the pageant

Katy Mae and Carla at the Stop & Shop in the Provi- Carla enjoys a dence, Rhode Island area; visit with thank you MG Ford sponsor Raymon Land in their Branford of- fice, thanks for Carla is loving the Freson Bros posters in their Northern your support Alberta Canada stores, thanks to NWPB for sponsoring this great three day event

The Stop & Shop team, the girls and our host for these events Laura Land Paul and Jackie Sawyer, thank you! and the Land Watermelon Sales group in Carla does a great job overseeing the eating contest at the Branford Freson watermelon festivals

Carla is honored to Happy Stop & Shop Customer visit with one of the founders of Freson Bros, Frank Lovsin, what a delightful Carla does a little interviewing at the Deland Watermelon person Festival with the winner of the eating contest

This little fella The Store manager and produce manager thank loves watermelon, the girls for being there his prizes, and Queen Carla, Carla and Katie were filmed and interviewed during the he is a champ Deland Festival

Proud partner with NWA for 8 years. 10 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 11 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

Registration Full Registration Includes: Thurs., Feb. 23: Reception, Dinner Fri., Feb. 24: Breakfast, Lunch, Auction Sat., Feb. 25: Breakfast, Banquet Agenda Highlights Early Bird Rate: Registration links: Wednesday 2-22-17: Member $395 & Non-Member $495 Late Rate: Member $495 & Non-Member $595 https://nwa.memberclicks.net/index. Registration php?option=com_mc&view=mc&mc Snowmobiling Adventure id=form_224107&test=1 Hospitality Full Child Registration ( Age 13 and under): Thursday 2-23-17: Member - $200.00 https://nwa.memberclicks.net/index. php?option=com_mc&view=mc&mc Registration Non-Member - $250.00 Committee Meetings id=form_224940&test=1 Exhibit Center Welcome Dinner & Event Hospitality Friday 2-24-17: $225 Per Single Rider-Driver Registration Snowmobiling Adventure $175 Per Double Rider-Driver Breakfast & Opening Session Seed Spit Contest Lunch Annual Watermelon Auction Saturday 2-25-17: Registration Breakfast & General Session Crisis Mgmt. Training (NWPB) Exhibit Center NWA Closing Reception NWA Annual Awards Banquet The group participants are transported to the Zephyr Cove Snowmobile Center. At the center, Hospitality the guests can “suit-up” for this afternoon activity. Snowmobile suits, boots, gloves and other clothing are available for the participants needing them. From Zephyr Cove, the group will have a short transfer, along Lake Tahoe’s beautiful shoreline to the snowmobile site. There are ample snowmobiles for your group size. The snowmobilers will then be led by their guides, along the trail to winter adventure. The rid- 5 Reasons to Come ers will climb the trail through the forest and up the mountain to the “Emigrant Ridge Route”. The views along this mountain top trail are truly spectacular. Views on the right are of Lake to the Convention: Tahoe and the surrounding mountains, while those on the left are sweeping vistas of Carson Valley and the “high desert” to the east. 1. Beautiful Winter Upon returning from their two hour exclusive snowmobile adventure participants will return to Alpine Scenery the snowmobile center where they will drop off their snowmobile clothing. 2. Cozy Resort with Spa to relax 3. Snowmobiling and Skiing opportunities Diamond Peak Ski Resort 4. Casino to enjoy the fun There is a Skiing opportunity at Diamond Peak Ski resort. gambling side of Nevada Families and couples alike can enjoy the thrilling sports of ski- ing and snowboarding. If you don’t have ski gear, don’t worry, 5. Tons of fun with the the resort provides gear to rent! For more information go to Watermelon family! http://www.diamondpeak.com 12 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 National13 • the VinelineWatermelon Association • Spr ing 2012 National Watermelon Associationthe Vineline • Fall 2016 • 19

AlabamaAlabama RReporteport

Greetings from the Alabama Association! Greetings The 32nd from annual Alabama, Alabama Watermelon Association Convention was held in February at the Beau Rivage ResortThe 2016 in Biloxi, tour for Mississippi. the Alabama The Watermelon convention was Queen full ofhas fun, been excitement, very productive and even this karaoke! year. Queen This year Madison was a greathas beensuccess busy and visiting a special schools, thank you local to farmersall the sponsors: and Allenfarmer’s Lund markets, Company grocery, Billy Smith’stores,s andWatermelons, much more! Inc., Kevin and Amanda Rentz welcomed Queen Blake and Queen Madison just before serving up two water- Clifton Seed Company, Genecco Produce, International melon recipes on WTVY Morning Show. PaperIn July,, LTF Queen Greenhouses, Madison McMelon, teamed up Inc, with Mor Kendragan W ood Products,Kennedy National of Intergro Watermelon and toured Association, many local National farmers in and around Alabama. This was a great learning Watermelon Promotion Board, RockTenn, Sakata Seed, Visiting Queens, contestants, board members and special guest opportunity for Queen Madison to see the farm- after the auction at the AWA convention. Sunny Fresh, Valdosta Plant Company, and Williams An amazing group of “has beens!” ers running full speed. She got to see firsthand how Manis Produce Marketing. Thank you all for making A quick visit ourwatermelons convention arenot harvested,only possible, inspected, but a great and success. packed for with Chris at the stores. Love Farms in There are a few more people who received awards Ashford. A boat full of watermelons and watermelon samples is always for their hard work, generosity, and support. Mr. Terry fun while shopping. Jones,Queen Southern Madison Quality got the Shippers opportunity received to work the King with BuyerScott ADavisward andwith Mr Military. Rantz ProduceSmith, Smith Group Farms on two of Bell, in- Incstore received promotions. the King One Donor at Maxwell Award. RayAir ForceGilliland Base of in Montgomery and one at Fort Rucker Army Base in Queen Ann-Marie receiving her beautiful watermelon jewelry Ray Gilliland Melons received the Lifetime Achieve- from the AWA board. mentFt. Rucker. Award. BothMrs. storesCorliss had Smith great of Billydisplays Smith’ ands Waevery- - termelonsone wanted received to take the a Janwatermelon Ware Award. home Mr to. Jayenjoy. Jones of Sakata Seed received the Outstanding Service Award. WTVY Morning Show allowed Queen Madison a Newly crowned Queen Amber with her sponsor, Mr. Billy and Thank you all for your dedication the association, it is Todd Shelley walking the fields teaching Queen Madison all Queen MadisonMrs. handing Corliss out Smith. J Slice coloring books at Land- greatlythree minuteappreciated! segment to cook breakfast a-go-go and a about irrigation. mark Park Watermelon Day. watermelon One last farewell salad. Sheto the was 201 able1 Alabama to share W withatermelon viewers Queen,the health Miss benefits Ann-Marie and Urrutia. versatility A special of watermelon. thank you for all your hard work and dedication, over the past year. YNothingou have representedquit beats thethe heatAlabama like Associationa Watermelon with Day greatat Landmark pride and Parkelegance! in Dothan, Ann-Marie AL. hasQueen been Madison an out- standinghosted therepresentative Watermelon for Day, our association. where park Invisitors addition, got thankto sample you to heirloom all that helped varieties make of her watermelon year so special. grown on the park and got to test out there seed spitting QueenGetting Ann-Marie all the and details Queen on whatKatelyn, to look Congratulations for in watermelon on before We had four outstanding young women compet- Nationalsit goes Katelyn! to the store. These children were ready to cool off with watermelon! ingabilities. for the 2012 Alabama Watermelon Queen position.

Miss Meghan Patterson of Thorsby, sponsored by Sunny 2nd runner up, Leah Knight, Queen Amber, and 1st runner up Fresh,Lastly, Miss the LeahFarm Knight Yall Festival of Berry in sponsored Cullman, byAL Mc- round- Meghan Patterson Melon,ed out Missa hot Amber summer! Nolin This of festivalEnterprise, is a sponsored one day agri by - Billycultural Smith’ awarenesss Watermelons, and celebration and Miss Jaimefestival Minor attracting of Musclethousands Shoals, of visitors. sponsored This by wasGulf a Seed. wonderful Congratula- experi- tionsence to where Miss AmberQueen NolinMadison on your got tonew participate role as the in 2012 a watermelon carving demo, a farm to table cooking All the beautifulLee, contestants Amy, and readyZane Fitchfor evening of River gown Road Alabama Watermelon Queen. Miss Amber is the 20 competition.Farms and Queen Madison. Queen Madison got to participate in a watermelon carving yeardemo, old watermelondaughter of Gregseed andspit Reneacontest Nolin. and participate She lives in demo at the Farm Y’all Festival. inmedia Enterprise interviews and attends throughout Enterprise the day.Sate Community College. While a great summer has come and gone, we are Amber and I are both very excited to get this year Queen Kimberly, Queen Whitney, Queen Amber, Queen Ann- started.looking We forward will be to attending an amazing the Florida fall. We W areatermelon headed to Marie, and Queen Katelyn ConventionWashington, on D.C.March for 23rd-25th the United in TFreshampa, Washington FL. Follow- ingConference; that Amber Orlando, will attend Florida the Queen for PMA Training and hostedthen back byto the D.C. National for the W Marineatermelon Corp Promotion Marathon. Board, Hope visit to see Watermelon displays everywhere! Queen Madison at the you all there! Contestants getting tips on the seed spit competition from Mr. elementary schools, attend watermelon festivals, and Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery. Jeff Garrett. complete a farm tour. Amber is eager to start her year learningSincerely, about and promoting watermelons. Can you guess how much this massive watermelon weighed?

WKatiearmest Eubanks Regards, KatiePromotions Eubanks Coordinator PromotionsAlabama Watermelon Coordinator Association 334-237-0600Cell:334-237-0600 [email protected]:[email protected] Queen Amber with Mr. Kelley and Mrs. Jean Marinaro

Thank you Scott Davis with Military Produce Group for set- These two girls were so excited to meet the watermelon queen Contestants ready for opening number. ting up an amazing display in the commissary at the Ft. Rucker while grocery shopping. Army Base.

With Affirmed, Bold Ruler and Citation, Growers across the country are enjoying the benefits of wide adaptability, high yield, excellent uniformity and sweet flavor.

A Winning Line-up! www.sakata.com © 2012 Sakata Seed America, Inc. 2014 • the Vineline National National W aterWatermelonmelon Association Association • Spr • Falling 20122016

Shipping watermelons year-round Watermelons individuallyweighed & inspected

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Arnold Mack • Brenda Mack • Chandler Mack Jon Mack • Doug Miller • Nick Leger Ken Wiles • Darlena Keene (Accounting)

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Mack Farm, Inc. River Packing, Inc McTruck, Inc growing all packing and Durb Pearson varieties of shipping potatoes & Durb potatoes & onions Pearsonand watermelons year round Dennis Guinn 15 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

Florida Report “Beautiful sisters”. Thanks Brandi for sponsoring us on farm Watermelon Greetings from Florida 2016 Suwannee River Farm “CARES” Dinner. tours.

Hello everyone, hope your year is going great! I would like to thank everyone for sponsoring Miss Debra and I to go on all of these wonderful promo- tions. We were fortunate to go to Key West and all the way to Newfoundland, Canada. I have been Handed out slices of Watermelons for the “Miles for Moffitt so blessed to be a part of the Florida Watermelon Cancer Run”. Over 5,169 participant runners including our It was nice seeing Mr. Billy Smith and his grandson Trey at “Melon 1 Ladies” ran in this event. $647,000 was raised for his office in Trenton during our farm tours. This is beautiful Team. this event. background picture of a beautiful quilt.

Katy Mae Harrison - 2016 Florida Watermelon Queen

As our summer months are slowing down Queen Katy Mae has been promoting Florida Watermelons from Florida all the way to Canada. The months Spending the day with Carrie Thomas and her lovely girls FWQ Katy Mae and Jose Rodriquez, representing the Florida of May to July Queen Katy Mae and I have been Ashley and Alaina at Bell Elementary School. Thanks to Dia- Dept. of Agriculture along with NWQ Carla handed out free promotional items at Watermelon Day in Volusia County. promoting watermelons at Wegmans, Stop n Shop, mond 99 Watermelon Sales for sponsoring us for this day. Longo’s and Coleman’s grocery stores, Elementary Schools, Suwanee Care Dinners, Miles for Moffitt 5 K Run, visiting farmers in the State, TV Promo- tions, Watermelon 5 K Run, State Watermelon Festivals, USDA Summer Food Program, as well

as the Key West Navy Base Commissioner. As you Florida Queen Katy Mae and National Queen Carla educated Visiting with our First Vice-President Carr Hussey and his wife the kids at Bell Elementary School about the health benefits Jan along with Jim Barfield of Wolf Island in can see with our captions’ we have had a wonder- of watermelons. Lake Placid, Florida. ful summer promoting our Florida watermelons. Queen Katy Mae and I appreciates everyone that has helped in making this a successful summer in promoting Florida watermelons.

As the holiday season approaches, remember to buy your Florida Fall Watermelons at your local pro- The tradition of family farming is still being carried on at Phil duce stands and grocery stores and serve it with all Turner’s Farms in Arcadia. Queen Katy Mae is visiting with Promoting Florida Watermelons in June at of your Holiday dinners. Mr. Phil Turner Sr., Phil Turner Jr. and his son Phillip Turner. Longo’s Grocery Stores in Canada. Until next time!

Debra Harrison - Florida Watermelon Promotion Coordinator Cellular – (863) 633-8306 email: [email protected] Thanks Melon 1 for hosting our TV promotion with Fox 4 At the Navy Air Base Commissioner in Key West, Florida. News along with Chef Justin with the Dept. of Agriculture for I would like to take a minute of your time to ask sponsoring this promotion. you to SAVE THE DATE --- January 13-15, 2017 to come join us at our Florida Watermelon Associa- tion Convention held this year in the beautiful Sani- bel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Ft Myers, FL. -- Check it out at www.sanibelmarriott.com. What

a great place for talk about WATERMELONS and Spending our 4th of July weekend in Providence, Rhode Island Queen Katy Mae visiting at the packing shed with Mr. Trevor promoting Florida watermelons at the Stop and Shop Grocery VACATION too!!! Planned for a big turnout and Bass and his son Spencer. Thanks for helping sponsoring us to Stores. Thanks to M.G. Ford Produce for sponsoring us and a fun time. You’ve heard of “Cake by the Ocean” Newberry. Paul & Jackie Sawyer for a fun-filled weekend. Well come have some WATERMELONS BY THE BAY with us! Real fun in store for everyone.!! Laura Land - President Florida Watermelon Association.

Always enjoy seeing and visiting with Rhantz & Stephanie Smith along with Kendra Tomlinson Kennedy. Thanks Kendra Watermelon runners taking time to poise with Queen Katy with Intergro for all the farm tours visits and sponsoring us. Mae at the “Fourth of July Watermelon 5-K Run” in Winter Park, Florida. 16 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 17 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 18 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

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www.corrchoice.com 19National • the Vineline Watermelon Association • Spr ing 2012 National Watermelon Associationthe Vineline • Fall 2016 • 19

GeorgiaAlabama Report Report

Greetings from the Alabama Association! Greetings The 32ndfrom Georgia! annual Alabama Watermelon Association ConventionOur Georgia watermelon was held season in Februaryis coming to ata close the butBeau we haveRivage had an Resortawesome inyear Biloxi, promoting Mississippi. this favorite and The delicious convention fruit. Our wasqueen full tour has been full of many adventures visiting many wonderful locations. The ofqueen fun, tour excitement, has been a great and success even and karaoke! we’ve been marketingThis year sweet was Georgia a greatwatermelon success in Georgia, and aseveral special other thank states and you in Canada!to all the sponsors: AllenJune and Lund July were Company very busy, monthsBilly forSmith’ Queens Andi.Watermelons, We promoted Inc., wa- Cliftontermelon inSeed the ‘Watermelon Company Capital, Genecco of the World’, Produce, Cordele International Georgia where GWA participated in the parade, hosted the Sweet Melon and adult seed spit Papercontests,, LandTF attended Greenhouses, the Farm Bureau McMelon, annual luncheon. Inc, Mor Thankgan you W toood Jan - Live and on the TV set of ATL & Co. Products,ice and Mitch National Mitchell for W youratermelon support with Association, this annual event! National Queen Andi was interviewed by several local news stations – WALB in Albany and WSST Watermelon Promotion Board, RockTenn, Sakata Seed, Visiting Queens, contestants, board members and special guest in Cordele. She also took time to tour several farms in South Georgia to learn after the auction at the AWA convention. Sunnyfrom the growersFresh, aboutValdosta their practices. Plant Company Thank you to, and Kendra W illiamsKennedy for An amazing group of “has beens!” Manisescorting Produce Queen Andi Marketing. for these visits! Thank Thank youyou to allour forMelon making 1 family for providing a delicious meal for us that evening! GWA received a special invi- Queen Andi & Brad Brownsey coordinating the Annual ourtation convention to join Southeastern not only Grocers, possible, parent company but a togreat BI-LO, success. Harveys and Longos watermelon eating contest Winn-Dixie There stores,are a forfew their more meet-and-greet people whowith customers received at theawards Harveys store in Macon, Georgia. This event was in celebration of their commitment forto source their local hard fresh work, produce generosity in their stores., and TV support.host and Award Mr .winning Terry Jones,Chef Curtis Southern Stone was Quality available toShippers visit with consumersreceived and the share King some of Queen Andi with his favorite watermelon recipes. Queen Andi got some facetime with Chef award winning Buyer Award and Mr. Rantz Smith, Smith Farms of Bell, Chef Curtis Stone Stone to share her experiences and role as the Georgia Watermelon Queen. IncThe monthreceived of June the ended King with Donor Queen Andi Award. joining Ray the other Gilliland state queens of Raywith their Gilliland annual trip Melons to Toronto, received Canada andthe the Lifetime Longos store Achieve- promotions Queen Ann-Marie receiving her beautiful watermelon jewelry and watermelon eating contests. Thank you NWPB for sponsoring us on this from the AWA board. menttrip and A thankward. you Mrs.to Brad Corliss Brownsey Smith for giving of upBilly your Smith’day to bes our Wa escort- termelonsand tour guide received in your beautiful the Jan city! W Justare after Award. our Canadian Mr. Jay excursion, Jones we ofhit theSakata ground Seed running received to promote the Georgia Outstanding watermelon Serviceat the Publix Award. store in Albany, Georgia followed by handing out samples at the commissary at the Newly crowned Queen Amber with her sponsor, Mr. Billy and ThankAlbany Marine you all Corps for Logistics your dedication Base. The consumers the association, loved engaging it iswith Mrs. Corliss Smith. greatlyQueen Savannah appreciated! and learning more about this delicious treat. Queen Andi In store at Longos gearing up for a thirsty crowd and Queen Savannah were hard at it and on the go during the month of June! Look what’s on sale Thank One you last ladies farewell for all of yourto the hard 201 work1 andAlabama representing Watermelon our association! at the Fresh Market Queen, Miss Ann-Marie Urrutia. A special thank you Continuing our watermelon journey, July opened up with Queen Andi be- foring featuredall your on ATLhard & work Co.’s week and day dedication, segment to talk over about the her past role asyear a . Ywatermelonou have queenrepresented where she theshared Alabama a recipe with Association the viewers. Followingwith this media event, we were invited for an in-store promotion that afternoon at greatthe Fresh pride Market and in Atlanta,elegance! GA. OurAnn-Marie travels continued has been to Moody an out-Air Force standingBase in Albany, representative GA to talk up watermelon for our association. and hand out samples. In addition, Just after thankthe fourth you of July,to all Queen that Savannah helped traveled make to her Savannah year soto represent special. the GWA in three commissaries - Fort Stewart, Hunter Air Force Base and Kings Queen Ann-Marie and Queen Katelyn, Congratulations on Bay. We It was had hot four in southern, outstanding coastal Georgia young and women watermelon compet- continued to Nationals Katelyn! ingbe in for demand! the 2012 We handed Alabama out lots Wof atermelonthis tasty, healthy Queen treat toposition. the shoppers. Atlanta Fulton Public Library celebrated the opening of their new Southeast MissBranch Meghan in July. Not Patterson only were they of Thorsbycelebrating, theirsponsored new location, by theySunny were 2nd runner up, Leah Knight, Queen Amber, and 1st runner up Fresh,also celebrating Miss LeahWatermelon Knight Month! of BerryQueen Andi sponsored was invited by to Mc-join in on Meghan Patterson the occasion to come and talk to the children about ‘all things watermelon’. Melon,They even Miss prepared Amber watermelon Nolin slushies of Enterprise, for everyone tosponsored enjoy! Other by events we attended during July were the Youth World Barrel Race Championship, Thank you Scott Davis for organizing this event at Billy Smith’s Watermelons, and Miss Jaime Minor of Fort Benning MuscleFort Benning Shoals, Commissary sponsored and South by Georgia Gulf farmSeed. visits. Congratula- GWA appreciates Kendra Kennedy and Jenna Saxon for accompanying Queen Andi to several tionsevents duringto Miss the Ambermonth of July!Nolin Thank on your you to new Melon role 1 for as feeding the 2012us on the MarDel Tour would not be complete without a trip to the Old All the beautiful contestants ready for evening gown Mill Crabhouse Alabamaevening of our W farmatermelon visits. Queen. Miss Amber is the 20 competition. yearAugust old began daughter with our annualof Greg MarDel and Queen Renea Tour. Nolin. Wow! WhatShe anlives awe - insome Enterprise week we had and on the attends Eastern Enterpriseshore! From passingSate Community out samples of watermelon on the Rehoboth boardwalk to visits at the FARM STAND at the College.Givens’, lunch with the Melon 1 folks, our fun dining experience at The Old Mill Amber Crab House. and We I are ended both our tourvery with excited handing toout get watermelon this year slices at Queen Kimberly, Queen Whitney, Queen Amber, Queen Ann- started.the world’s Welargest will crab be feast attending - the 71st annualthe Florida Rotary Club Watermelon of Annapolis Crab Marie, and Queen Katelyn Feast with nearly 2500 people in attendance! Everyone enjoyed cooling off Conventionwith refreshing locally-grownon March 23rd-25thMaryland watermelon! in Tampa, Thank FL. you Follow- to Caitlyn Surprise visit to ingand Scottthat GivensAmber and will all of attend your family the forQueen welcoming Training us and beinghosted such Leger & Son wonderful hosts! by the National Watermelon Promotion Board, visit elementaryOn the horizon, schools, we have many attend more watermelon promotions to look festivals, forward toand this year Contestants getting tips on the seed spit competition from Mr. - Savannah Food & Wine Festival, PMA Fresh Summit Show, Marine Corps Jeff Garrett. First Runner Up Savannah Hartley at Hunter Air Force Base completeMarathon to aname farm a few. tour We. can’tAmber wait isto shareeager those to experiencesstart her yearwith you learningin our next issue!about and promoting watermelons.

Would you like to schedule a date for our Georgia Watermelon Queen to visit Wyourarmest location? Regards, Please call Dawn Cheplick at 706-845-8575 or dcheplick@ Katieasginfo.net Eubanks to book the queen. Sincerely, Promotions Coordinator 334-237-0600Dawn Cheplick, Promotions Coordinator 706-845-8575 [email protected]@asginfo.net Queen Amber with Mr. Kelley and Mrs. Jean Marinaro

Celebrating Watermelon Month at Atlanta Fulton Library First Runner Up Savannah Hartley with the galley chef. Check out his cool carvings! Contestants ready for opening number.

With Affirmed, Bold Ruler and Citation, Growers across the country are enjoying the benefits of wide adaptability, high yield, excellent uniformity and sweet flavor.

A Winning Line-up! www.sakata.com © 2012 Sakata Seed America, Inc. 20 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 21 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 22 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 23 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

On November 8th, the voting citizens of the United States will elect a new President. Who might that be, and who can lead this country for the next four years? Will it be the Democratic Party? Or, the Republican Party? Maybe, the Libertarian party? Or come to think of it (and depending on which state you live and vote in), there are over 500 candidates trying to get elected for President. Yes, seriously. No matter who it may be, get out and vote for your candidate of choice. Have youry voice heard. VOTE ON NOVEMBER 8th! 24 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 25 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

Illiana Report

America’s finest with There is nothing like fresh watermelon on a hot summer Queen McKinzi We love our friends at Winfield day and Queen McKenzi with the help of 1st runner up , Queen Ashley, were determined to spread the sweetness.

Queen McKenzie celebrated America’s 240th birthday at the 4th of July Celebration in Vincennes, Indiana. She was honored to meet with veterans and thank them for their services. She loved riding in the parade and watching kid’s faces light up as she threw watermelon candy down Queen McKenzi at old fashion main street. Carmel Indiana Clowning around

Both queens were busy at separate Kroger events. They enjoyed passing out watermelon and educating the con- sumers on this favorite summertime fruit. Master Chef, Joseph Poon, was a delight as always and the customers marveled at his carvings, creativity and fun loving style!

Riley Kids Queen McKenzi attended the Race for Riley Kart Race. Queen Ashley & love Queen Chef Poon at Co- McKenzi She presented an IWA donation check to the Riley’s lumbus Indiana Children Foundation. She also got to race against race car driver, John Andretti, and lost only by the length of a Jubilee:)

Marion and Gas City were the Queens next stops. The red carpet treatment was a surprise to McKenzi as The New Market Group announced her arrival followed by applause. She had lots of fun with the New Market team The Gift of and customers. Giving John Andretti and McKenzi visiting kids at Riley Hospital It is always a pleasure to see our Watermelon driver, Ross Chastain, and serve watermelon at the Indianapolis Nas- car Exfinity Race. It was hot on and off the track and our friends at Winfield were so kind to invite us to their suite. Thank you for your hospitality!!

Suited up The busy schedule continued as Queen Mckenzi attended and ready to the 11th annual Red Skelton Festival. Clowns and kids take on John Andretti alike enjoyed McKenzi’s playful side. The kids at Ri- $2.00 Tuesday at the Indianapolis State Fair ley’s Children Hospital also loved spending time with the Queen. She visited patients and their families with John Andretti and handed out bags of goodies.

Summer never seems complete without a visit to the fair. Two Dollar Tuesday at the Indianapolis State Fair was a Queen huge success again this year. Kroger and IWA handed McKenzi visiting New out over 6000 cups of watermelon. Guests were so ap- Market preciative to receive the refreshing treat. Stores Watermelon Pageant

The Knox County Watermelon Festival was McKenzi’s next stop. She made lots of new friends and assisted in the pageant. Free Watermelon was being served, seed spitting contest and watermelon eating contest is always a big hit.

Queen Ashley stepped in and enjoyed a day with kids too. Driver, Ross Queen Chastain McKenzi She read and played games with kids of all ages at the Willard with Queen making new Library in Evansville Indiana. Lots of fun was had by all. McKenzi friends

It has been such a high energy summer for IWA. We are thankful for a harvest, safety and hard working farmers.

Sweet Regards, Lorrinda Ellermann Seed IWA Promo Coordinator Kelly Tyner, spitting Ross contest Chastain, with Queen Cody Smith Ashley 26 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 27 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

Mar-Del Report

Greetings from the Mar-Del Watermelon Association! The queens were SO excited to be ON the beach in Rehoboth! Amy with a group of children on Queen Amy and I have been going, going, going all summer long Kid’s Day at the DE State Fair. and surprisingly our fall schedule is quite busy too! Since last time, we have done many of the same promotions we do from year to year, but we have also had a lot of new events that have had interest in hosting Amy.

The Delaware State Fair is always a great time and Amy showed Mar-Del Watermelon Association’s billboard this summer was displayed throughout MD and DE. Welcome to the fairgoers how to make Fire and Ice Watermelon Salsa, a Boston! Watermelon Salad, and a watermelon parfait. There was no time to waste and Queen Amy attended a Buy Local Cookout at the Maryland Governor’s home, where she met many local famers from Maryland who had donated their fresh produce to be used in delicious dishes.

Queen Amy’s next visit was Wright’s Watermelon Festival, where board members, Charles and Michelle Wright of Wright’s Market, hosted their annual event with a Watermelon Princess Queens stop by for a visit at Gibson’s Produce office during Queen Amy pageant that Amy was the emcee for and many other watermelon their tour. Thank you Mr. Bob Gibson for and Wright’s all your help and support! newly crowned activities. Watermelon Princess Our next week was one of our favorites – the National Queen Tour of Maryland and Delaware! We were elated that so many queens were able to join us! We had the National Queen Carla, Georgia Queen Andi, Florida Queen Katey Mae, North Carolina Queen Sara, and South Carolina Queen Lauren. Our week began with a trip to the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, where the girls handed out slices of watermelon to those visiting the beach. We had a grocery store promotion at the Giant in Rehoboth Beach, DE and the girls judged a watermelon carving contest. The next day, the Queens were taken to the Laurel Auction Block, where they saw how all of Thank you to all those who bought Thank you to the Wright family for having us take part in day watermelons during the auction. full of watermelon fun! our area’s watermelons were sold years ago. Farmers, brokers, and locals joined us for the warm morning as watermelons, donated by local farmers, were auctioned off and the girls sold them out of a watermelon bus, painted like an actual watermelon! A big thank you to those famers and brokers who donated and bought water- melons! The girls had interviews with a local radio station, Froggy 99.9 and our local news station, WMDT, where they promoted our awesome product. For the end of the week, we took the queens to Annapolis, MD for a Rotary Crab Feast at the Naval Academy National Queen, Carla and Amy serving watermelon slices on Football Stadium, where slices of watermelons were handed out the Rehoboth Boardwalk! Amy appeared on Delmarva Life show and made a “No Bake to over 3,000 people! To wind down the week, the Queens had a Watermelon Cake”! grocery store promotion at Whole Foods in Annapolis. What an awesome, fun-filled week we enjoyed with great company! Thank you queens and coordinators for all your hard work that allowed us to pull this week off!

Thank you to Then it was “On the Road Again” for Amy and I to Boston, MA the Evans for grocery store promotions with the Maryland Dept of Agricul- family for hosting us for ture. We found lots of Maryland and Delaware watermelons in your Water- Boston! melon Day! The queens joined Melon1 for a luncheon after the auction. Thank you Melon1 for all you do! We were right back home in time for the Evans Farms Watermel- on Day, where Queen Amy handed out slices of melon in colors We found of red, orange, and yellow! OUR DE watermelons Well friends, there is so much more to share from our spectacu- in Boston! lar summer, but you will have to wait and hear about it all in our next edition of the Vineline! We would like to thank Dawn Collins, Courtney Hastings, Katey Evans, Terra Tatman, Chelsey Procino, Katelyn Miller, and Rachel Chastain for helping us out throughout the summer with promotions. The Old Mill Crabhouse was surely an experience for these girls as they picked blue crabs. Until next time, we are sending you our warmest watermelon wishes!

Seedless Love, Caitlin Givens Promotions Coordinator

These queens worked hard all day for the Rotary Crab Feast at The Queens at Whole Food in Annapolis, MD during the the Naval Academy Stadium. National Queen Tour.

Proud partner with NWA for 8 years. 28 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 29 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

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North Carolina Report

Queen Sarah sharing watermelon with everyone at the State Murfreesboro Watermelon Festival - Sarah and the Little Miss Watermelon Day celebrations, watermelon festivals, Farmers Market “Watermelon Day” in Raleigh, NC Watermelon Princess retail promotions, media interviews and consumer outreach events have kept Queen Sarah busy promoting watermelons from the North Carolina mountains to the coast this summer.

Special “Watermelon Day” celebrations at the NC De- partment of Agriculture Farmers Markets in Charlotte, Sarah assisting Food Lion customers with selecting the perfect Piedmont Triad Farmers Market “Watermelon Day” – Sarah Asheville, Greensboro and Raleigh gave Sarah an op- watermelon sharing free slices of watermelon portunity to meet many consumers. Highlights of the events included watermelon eating and largest water- melon contests along with sharing lots of watermelon slices. Television appearance is Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro gave the NC watermelon industry and our watermelon day promotions some great exposure. NC Watermelon Festivals are a big part of watermelon season in NC. The Fair Bluff Festival was lots of fun Food Lion corporate Watermelon Day in Salisbury, NC. Queen Sarah and Ross enjoyed meeting everyone and Jackson Farming Company tour with Matt Solana in promoting watermelons with Mr. Joe Jones escorting Queen Sarah in the pa- Autryville, NC rade. The 31st annual Murfreesboro festival was a true celebration of everything watermelon. Mr. and Mrs. Percy Bunch hosted the queen for the event. Where Sarah emceed the “Little Miss Watermelon” pageant and assisted with the watermelon eating and seed spit- ting contests. The Winterville Watermelon Festival gave Sarah the opportunity to meet lots of consumers NC State FFA Convention - The NC Watermelon Association Queen Sarah celebrating all the goodness of NC watermel- and share the watermelon message. She even got to and Queen Sarah provided watermelon slices ons with the soldiers at the Camp Lejeune Commissary in appear on stage with some famous music artists. for all the attendees Jacksonville, NC Retail promotions were a big part of Queen Sarah’s summer events. NC Food Lion stores hosted special promotions to benefit the Hope for the Warriors pro- gram. Sarah took part in these events promoting wa- termelon and raising money for a great cause. Sarah also visited military commissaries in Jacksonville and

Goldsboro, NC. Food Lion corporate hosted Queen James Sharp and his family hosted Queen Sarah to help them Watermelon give-away contest winner at the Western NC Sarah and Ross Chastain for watermelon day at their promote watermelons at the Wilson Tobs baseball game. Farmers Market “Watermelon Day” celebration Team mascot Slugger pictured here with Sarah. corporate office in Salisbury, NC. All the employees enjoyed sampling watermelon and getting autographs from Ross and Sarah.

Queen Sarah really enjoyed her opportunity to promote the NC watermelon industry as part of the Mar-Del Queen Tour. Thanks to the Mar-Del Watermelon As- WNCN reporter Bill Reh interviewing Queen Sarah about sociation, Caitlin and Queen Amy for a fun filled week Queen Sarah on WCNC Charlotte morning show, with live the events at the State Farmers Market for the noon news in promoting watermelons in Maryland and Delaware. remotes from the Charlotte Farmers Market Raleigh, NC Jackson Farming Co. hosted Queen Sarah for a farm tour where she learned all about the production side of growing, packing and shipping watermelons. Queen Sarah assisted James Sharp of Fresh-Pik Produce in promoting watermelons at a Wilson Tobs baseball game. Sarah and the Sharp family meet lots of fan and Slugger the team mascot. Queen Sarah sharing free watermelon slices with consumers TV appearance on WGHP morning show promoting on the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk in Delaware during the Lots more events to come. Until next time…. watermelon in the Triad area of NC Mar-Del Queen Tour.

Sharon Rogers Promotions Coordinator [email protected] 336-583-9630

Mrs. Francis Bunch and Queen Sarah at the NC Watermelon State Queens having fun with the Froggy 99 radio hosts after Festival in Murfreesboro, NC the seed spit contest. 32 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 33 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

South Carolina Report

This summer has been very busy and very productive in WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC Rehoboth Beach, DE South Carolina. On June 10th, Laura appeared on WLTX- TV in Columbia. She discussed the upcoming season and also prepared a recipe for the early morning viewers. A few days later, SEC-TV, Making It Grow in Sumter was the next stop. Laura joined our friends at Making It Grow where the benefits of watermelon were discussed and 3 recipes were prepared. After the show, everyone gathered to enjoy the delicious watermelon treats before departing for the evening.

The Hampton Watermelon Festival and Parade found Laura SEC-TV, Making It Grow, Sumter, SC Giant Food, Salisbury, MD riding in the 1 hour parade from Varnville to Hampton. Brandy Harrison joined us and attended the vendors fair and parade and then enjoyed the wonderful country cooking at Rusty and Paula’s before the trip back to Florida. The River Dogs Baseball Game in Charleston was scheduled for July 1st, followed by the State Farmers Market in Columbia on July 9th. Laura passed out slices of watermelon at the Farm- ers Market from Jenkins Farms in Jefferson for this event.

Blackville Field Day was held on July 13th, and Dr. Gilbert Hampton Watermelon Festival Parade, Hampton, SC Miller presented another very successful and information Dabo Sweeney, Clemson, SC session. While attending the field portion of the day, Laura spoke briefly with those in attendance about what was in- volved with being the SC Ambassador for the watermelon in- dustry. The Pageland Watermelon Festival and Parade came next on July 18th. Southside Christian School in Greenville invited Laura to visit and serve melons to the children in River Dogs the summer program on July 26th. Laura, along with Sonny Baseball, Dickinson, attended the grand opening of a Piggly Wiggly Charleston, SC caption Store in Hollywood, SC on July 30th. Laura serving watermelon to the Clemson Tigers, Clemson, SC

Next came the MarDel National Queen Tour where Laura along with other state queens visited Froggy 99.9 in Salis- bury, MD.; Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, DE.; Giant Foods in Delmar, DE.; Melon 1 in Laurel, DE.; The Laurel Farmers Market in Laurel, DE.; The Annapolis Crabfeast in Annapolis, MD.; and Whole Foods in Annapo- lis, MD. Many thanks to the MarDel Association, Caitlin Givens, MarDel Promotions Coordinator, and Amy Wiggles- The Citadel, Charleston, SC worth, MarDel Queen, for being such wonderful hosts to SC Farmers Market, Columbia, SC the group in attendance. We would also like to thank Rusty Kinard and Ray Vincent for their sponsorship to make this trip a reality.

August was filled with colleges within the state. Watermel- ons were cut and served at the following locations: August 9th, Clemson University, Clemson; August 16th, The Citadel, August 22nd, Presbyterian College, Newberry; Charleston; August 25th, USC, Columbia; August 31st, Furman Univer- sity, Greenville. Blackville Field Day, Blackville, SC

Blakely Johnson, our 1st runner-up filled in at USC as well as August 20th, for the Schutzenfest Festival and Parade in 1st runner-up, Blakely Johnson, passing out awards at the Schutzenfest Festival, Ehrhardt, SC Ehrhardt.

Our year is quickly coming to a close, but we are looking for- ward to attending The Marine Corp Marathon in Washington, DC on October 28th-30th.

Wishing everyone good health and happiness as 2016 draws Pageland Watermelon Festival Parade, Pageland, SC to an end. Hope your holidays are spent with family and good friends!

Sincerely. Ann Bryant SC Promotions Coordinator [email protected] or [email protected] 864-303-3995 Blakely teaching Coach Muschamp how to make the “W” MarDel National Queen Tour, Maryland/Delaware during USC football practice in Columbia, SC 34 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

Chapter Conventions

Texas Watermelon Florida Watermelon South Carolina Association Association Watermelon Association

November 10-12, 2016 January 13-15, 2017 January 13-14, 2017 Doubletree Hotel Sanibel Harbour Marriott Charleston, McAllen, Texas Resort & Spa South Carolina Sanibel, Florida Contact for more Contact for more information Contact for more information [email protected] information [email protected] [email protected]

Western Watermelon Georgia Watermelon Mar-Del (Maryland-Delaware) Association Association Watermelon Association

January 14, 2017 January 27-29, 2017 February 3-4, 2017 New York New York King and Prince Hyatt Regency Resort Hotel & Casino St. Simons, Georgia Cambridge, Maryland Las Vegas, Nevada Contact for more Contact for more information Contact for more information mardelmelon information [email protected] @hotmail.com [email protected]

Alabama Watermelon Illiana (Illinois-Indiana) North Carolina Association Watermelon Association Watermelon Association

February 10-11, 2017 March 10-11, 2017 March 10-11, 2017 Beau Rivage Resort French Lick Resort Holiday Inn Sunspree and Casino French Lick, Indiana Resort Biloxi, Mississippi Contact for more Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Contact for more information information illianawatermelon Contact for more [email protected] @gmail.com information [email protected]

Invite a Friend, Customer or Colleague to convention so they can also benefit from the association 35 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

Texas Report

Howdy from Texas!

I hope this summer has been a good one for all of the watermelon family out there.

June, July, and August have been busy for Queen Makensie. She attended an expo in San Antonio where 2013 Queen Kendall being interviewed for the local news

she again visited with managers from HEB and other Customers enjoyed trying all three colors of watermelon produce people. Then she followed that with numerous handed out by our lovely queen. in-store promotions. Makensie and three past queens worked various stores to blanket different cities with watermelon promotions. Kimberly Burke, Kristin Valadez, and Kendal Duke were wonderful at stepping into the queen promotions ambassador job again, and Kendall even had a brief spot on the local news to pro- mote our favorite fruit! The girls did weekend promo- Makensie loved visiting with the kids! Makensie enjoyed her visit with the friendly folks from Plains. tions in cities like Houston, Dallas, Midland, Odessa, Lubbock, Plano, Beaumont, San Antonio, League City, Clear Lake and Port Arthur for HEB and the Fresh Market stores. The customers in these stores are al- ways thankful at being able to sample the delicious Helping watermelon and speak to our lovely ladies about the with the “Little Miss health benefits of it. They also appreciate being taught Watermelon” pageant the three steps of how to pick out a good watermelon. HEB Buddy wanted a picture too! Thank you, ladies, for taking the time out of your busy schedules to help with these promotions.

Most recently, Makensie spent a memorable Labor Day weekend in Plains, Texas for the Yokum County Watermelon Festival. The festival took place on a beautiful day where the crowds enjoyed music, a chil- dren’s pageant, a car show, and especially the wa- An eye-catching watermelon display One of the car show beauties along with our TWA beauty termelon. Makensie helped with the pageant for the children and got to pick the queen’s choice for the car show. McWhirter Farms and Anderson Produce were our sponsors, and Teretha Anderson and Connie and Macky McWhirter were wonderful hosts. (We missed

you Cheryl and Tony!) Thank you, once again, for the Selfie time with Yokum County hospitality and friendship. royalty

In conclusion, I want to invite all of you to our conven- What do we love to see? A cart full of watermelons! tion that is coming up in November. It will once again be in McAllen, Texas on November 10th through the 12th at the Doubletree Suites Hotel. Please contact me if you would like more information about it. It should be a great way to make contact with others in the wa- 2015 Queen termelon industry and have fun too. We hope to see Kristin at a Lubbock Brynn McWhirter, Makensie, Teretha Anderson, you there! promotion and Connie McWhirter

Have a blessed fall! Best regards, Barbara Duda TWA Promotions Coordinator [email protected]

Queen Makensie saying “Thank You” to the people of Plains 2014 Queen Kimberly with some watermelon lovers 36 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 37 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016

Western Report

Proud partner with NWA for 8 years. 38 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 39 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016 40 • the Vineline National Watermelon Association • Fall 2016