In a demonstration of support for the recently formed Eastern Cantaloupe Growers Association, the National Watermelon Association included a load of cantaloupes in its recent auction, generating $12,500 for the new organization.
Melon Acres, Oaktown, Ind., donated a truckload of cantaloupe for the auction at the NWA’s annual convention in San Antonio. 
Mike Horrall, owner of Melon Acres, is a member of the watermelon association and said in a news release that he wanted to help generate seed money for the cantaloupe group.
Bob Morrisey, NWA executive director, said in the release “the timing was right and the need was evident.”
He said the efforts of the Eastern Cantaloupe Growers Association will benefit the watermelon industry as well as the cantaloupe industry because it will increase awareness and improve food safety.
Morrisey said the watermelon association leaders and members are pleased with the direction the cantaloupe group is taking and believes it will benefit consumers as well as the entire fresh produce industry.
Charles Hall, interim executive director of the cantaloupe organization said Feb. 28 the group is in the start-up phase and plans to have procedures and requirements in place for this year’s season.
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