2022- Your Commission At Work

Dear NC Sweetpotato Producers,

This Assessment Newsletter was put together specifically with you in mind, as it is because of you, that the NC SweetPotato Commission even exists. You see, it is your passion and commitment to help feed the world with one of the world's best superfoods that drives our own passion to work and advocate on your behalf. Through your acreage assessment fees, we are able to stretch your dollar to accomplish quite a bit year over year and this past year was no exception! Inside this issue, you will find a few of the highlights of our activities and shoutouts to upcoming events we hope you won't miss. More importantly, we welcome the chance to hear from you. Over the past two years, I have tried to make it to as many operations as I could, but recognize I still have plenty more to go. These visits are important to me as I feel there is no better way to best understand you, your needs, and your concerns than a face-to-face conversation on your farm. That said, I, along with the rest of the Commission Office Staff are always available for a phone call or email, and hope that you will not hesitate in reaching out to us. Please consider this your open invitation to contact us, and share your ideas and recommendations for what we could (or should) be doing to ensure that we are best working for you and this SWEET industry. I would like to personally thank you and all the members of your operation who make our industry possible. It is an incredible honor and privilege to represent you in all of my conversations and travels. Most recently, I was in Paris, France, where the NC SweetPotato Commission and the NC Department of Agriculture shared a booth at the SIAL Paris food show, where the focus was all things NC Sweetpotatoes. We met people from all corners of the globe and the number one response we heard was that " Sweetpotatoes are where the future is and that they are one of the most exciting foods on the market today! " I personally could not agree more. The product you produce makes my role as your number-one marketing communicator incredibly easy and one that I am quite proud of, as I am passionate to share the history of our industry as well as the promise of what our future will look like.

On behalf of our entire team at the Commission office, we thank you for your dedication, perseverance, and passion. You are heroes and are valued beyond measure.

Sincerely,

The picture on the Left: Captures me presenting a gift on your behalf to the US Ambassador to France, Mrs. Denise Bauer (who happens to be from California)

Michelle

The picture on the Right: Captures our booth at Europe's largest Food Show (SIAL Paris), Cathy Ma, Director of International Marketing at NCDA and USDA Representative

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