Dave Dewitt

A foremost international expert on capsicums, Dave DeWitt has written or coauthored more than 30 books on peppers and has edited two magazines on the subject. His Chile Pepper Encyclopedia won Best Spice Book in English in 1999 at the Versailles World Cookbook Awards. He has been a radio announcer and television producer as well as appearing on many national television programs. Dave is a board member of the Chile Pepper Institute at New Mexico State University, chair of the board of the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, and an adjunct associate professor at New Mexico State University. He holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Virginia and a Master's degree in English from the University of Richmond. Sunbelt Shows, Inc., which Dave owns with his wife, Mary Jane Wilan, is a media company that specializes in fiery foods and barbecue. Sunbelt Shows has produced the annual National Fiery Foods & Barbecue Show since 1988.