*Proctor taking over as president of Bowman Apple Products

By James Heffernan -- jheffernan@nvdaily.com

(11:20 a.m.) MT. JACKSON -- For the first time in the 70-year history of Bowman Apple Products Co. Inc., a non-family member sits at the helm.

Executive Vice President and CEO Timothy S. Proctor took over as president of the apple processing company this morning, succeeding Gordon D. "Sonny" Bowman II, who will continue as chairman of the board, according to a press release.

"It was time for me to begin the process of making both short and long term changes that would keep the company competitive and [ensure] its position as a major leader in the apple industry nationwide," Bowman states in the release.

Bowman called Proctor "my right arm and friend for many years," adding that his "vast knowledge and experience with all areas of the operation is invaluable.

"I will make myself available to him in any way that I can be of assistance."

Proctor joined Bowman Apple Products in 1987 as personnel director and in 1991 was named director of purchasing. In 1999, he became a vice president, overseeing procurement, logistics and human resources. He was promoted to executive vice president and CEO in 2004.

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