Greetings, friends!
As we anticipate the culmination of another bountiful year, I find myself feeling tremendously blessed. This is my 36th year of bringing in a potato harvest, and in that time I have reaped way more than potatoes or even a bottom line.
Henry Ford, one of the fathers of modern industry, was quoted as saying, “A business that makes nothing but money is a poor business.” The beauty of being in a business is the ability to forge lasting friendships with like-minded individuals whom I respect and admire. From fellow producers/shippers to partners to employees to family and friends, my network of support is rich, and my gratitude is great. I would like to pay tribute to my parents, who instilled a solid work ethic, and my wife and sons, who support my whims and follies and are beside me in everything I do. (Don’t tell my wife I admitted to any folly.)
I take pride in being a third-generation potato grower, but I could never have done it alone. My business partners, staff and crew are instrumental to our company’s success, and I am indebted to their dedication. Additionally, I would like to raise a glass, if you will, to the equipment and package vendors, transportation providers and last, but assuredly not least, the consumer.
As I traverse here and abroad with various undertakings, I am proud to be involved in an industry that can feed the people of the world. We deliver a quality product with pride. However, as with any business, we must be looking for ways to diversify our industry. Dee Hock, former CEO of the Visa Corporation, said, “The problem is never how to get new innovative thoughts in your head, but how to get the old ones out.” We are good at what we do, but the challenge is to remain profitable and sustainable through keeping the balance of supply and demand in check.
I am eagerly anticipating the 87th Annual IGSA Convention as an opportunity to surge ahead with new ideas and renewed connections. It is a time to celebrate our accomplishments and to look forward to the next season with revived purpose.
In addition to the hiking, fishing, golf and pure scenic beauty we are accustomed to, beautiful Sun Valley boasts a newly renovated lodge this year. After a 10-months-in-the-making massive rebirth, a 20,000-square-foot area including spa, fitness center, pool, poolside café and large bowling alley will now be available for our enjoyment.
My lovely wife Melanie has left no stone unturned in organizing the social luncheon. Those of you who know her are aware that her attention to detail is impeccable, and it is guaranteed to be a superlative event.
The Trail Creek Cabin area will be the setting for a cooking demonstration by the uber-talented Kristen Trevino. Idaho native Kristen is a culinary expert who will take our collective palate to a whole other level of goodness with proper cooking techniques and recipes. In addition, her sweet charm and engaging personality are a joy to observe even if you are trying to forget you have a kitchen in your house.
To conclude our time together, we will enjoy the chairman’s banquet, where Ron Jones will be honored as the esteemed Russet Aristocrat.
As I wrap up my six-year term on the IGSA board, I am proud of our accomplishments. I have relished my time spent on the board, and I have met many wonderful people. My sincere thanks goes out to our president, Mark Klompien, and board members Ryan Bybee, Jim McBride, Jonathan Webster, Weston Crapo, Eric Wahlen, Derek Peterson, and associate board members Rick Miles and RoLynne Hendricks. I believe an organization, no matter how well-designed, is only as good as the people who are a part of it, and these individuals are amazing.
Serving has been a great honor, and I hope I have served the organization well. I anticipate a successful convention and look forward to seeing you all in Sun Valley!