The National Watermelon Association

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The Vineline magazine

Quarterly publication of the National Watermelon Association

Read about the latest research news, produce legislation, chapter reports, and upcoming events. Access the latest issue here for your laptop, tablet, or smart phone.

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How to register to vote in every US state and territory

(CNN) – Voting: Some call it a civic duty, others a waste of time, but if you want to have your say at the ballot box there are a few things you need to know.

Rules vary widely from state-to-state, and some requirements, like voter ID laws, are still being hashed out in the courts.

If you are interested in voting, scroll down to your state or territory and find out how to register:

Alabama

How to register: You can register online, or you can show up to your local board of registrars or any offices providing public assistance.
When you have to register by: October 24
Qualifications for registration: US citizens…

WGS July2016 President’s Notes

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 workers. None of this is new to us, but it is a growing proposition nonetheless.

The editorial column attached is written by a friend, peer an 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.

The Internet of Things Is Far Bigger Than Anyone Realizes

DANIEL BURRUS, BURRUS RESEARCH WHEN PEOPLE TALK about “the next big thing,” they’re never thinking big enough. It’s not a lack of imagination; it’s a lack of observation. I’ve maintained that the future is always within sight, and you don’t need to imagine what’s already there. Case in point: The buzz surrounding the Internet of Things. What’s the buzz? The Internet of Things revolves around increased machine-to-machine communication; it’s built on cloud computing and networks of data-gathering sensors; it’s mobile, virtual, and instantaneous connection; and they say it’s going to make everything in our lives from streetlights to seaports “smart.” But here’s what I...

Member Monday: Nunhems USA Helps Growers Become Members

Watermelon farmers are the lifeblood of the National Watermelon Association. Without their dedication to the soil there would not be a need for the Association. Thankfully though, there are those that have the diligence and the fortitude to urge little sprouts to grow into the developed vines that bear us so much fruit. That being said, it is imperative that we draw more growers into our Association so that we can share with them all the tools that we have to offer. With new laws, disease pressures and other adversities, the National Watermelon Association can and does help growers face them with...