The Washington Apple Commission announced Dec. 4 that Todd Fryhover was selected as the organization's next president. Mr. Fryhover formally takes the reins Jan. 1, but he is already working with Interim President Ken Severn to facilitate a smooth transition.

Mr. Fryhover is a native of Wenatchee, WA, the city where the commission is headquartered. He graduated from the University of Idaho with an agricultural and business degree. He has 20 years of industry experience, having worked for several leading apple shippers.

Launched this past spring, the produce industry has a new credit reporting and marketing web site. Blue Book Online Services, at www.bluebookprco.com, is the latest offering from Blue Book Services and follows the very successful Electronic Blue Book on CD-ROM.

Amid a variety of internal changes in the Central American melon business, North American produce buyers expect plenty of high-quality imported melons this winter.

According to the Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association, the Peruvian asparagus industry is setting standards for innovation, compliance with food and safety requirements, promotion and production.

Jeff Moyer, farm director of the Rodale Institute in Kutztown, PA, has been elected chairman of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2009 National Organic Standards Board. The board elected Mr. Moyer at its recent meeting in Washington, DC, elevating him from the 2008 vice chairman role. His five- year board term began three years ago.

The competition is underway again to honor companies and chefs among the foodservice industry's top produce performers in the United Fresh Research & Education Foundation's Produce Excellence in Foodservice Awards.

Winners will be honored in each of five business categories: fine dining restaurants, casual and family dining restaurants, quick-serve restaurants, business in industry/colleges and hotels/healthcare operations. Nominations must be submitted before Feb. 15, and a nomination form is available on- line at www.unitedfresh.org.