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June 1, 2001

Texan named to serve
watermelon industry

Robert “Bob” Dyer, president of Growers Select Produce, headquartered in Mission, Tex., was elected president of the National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) during the board’s spring meeting Feb. 6, in Orlando, Fla.

“I’m proud to have been elected as president of the board, and look forward to serving the industry in this capacity," Dyer told the directors.

During his first speech as NWPB president, Dyer outlined industry challenges to the NWPB's board of directors.

He called on the board's directors to provide as much input as possible about their region "so that watermelon growers, shippers and importers across the country can have an active, representative voice."

"Bob has excellent insight into the industry," said William Watson, executive director of the NWPB. "He's a forward-thinker who clearly understands the board's vision of promoting watermelon as a healthy, convenient, year-round consumer product with a diverse product mix, targeted to consumers' wants and needs. He will help us take our vision to the next level."

With more than 15 collective years experience as a watermelon producer, shipper and importer, Dyer is a good selection for ensuring that all industry parties' interests are represented.

In fact, the Texas watermelon producer says communication back to the industry will be one of his top priorities.

Ron Perry, a shipper with Perry & Sons, out of Manteca, Calif., was elected NWPB first vice president.

Also during the meeting, Dyer expressed appreciation for Doug Dickerson, who served as NWPB president for the 1999-2000 term. Dickerson is a watermelon shipper, with Nature's Choice Produce, in Pensacola, Fla.