Outgoing NPC president talks shop Larry Alsum, who is about to finish up his term as president of the National Potato Council, which included the retirement of longtime CEO John Keeling. Alsum takes stock on the industry and his year leading the NPC. AC Chaleur Adirondack Red All Blue Andover Atlantic B2727-2 Belmonda Bora Valley Brodie (NY140) Caribou Russet Dark Red Norland Elba Envol French Fingerling Genesse German Butterball Huron Chipper Innovator Katahdin Kennebec Kueka Gold Lamoka Lehigh Natascha Norwis (Crystal Strain) Ontario Peter Wilcox Pike Prada Purple Majesty Reba Red LaSoda Red Maria Red Pontiac Red Thumb Fingerling Russet Burbank (ID Strain) Satina Sebec Shepody Snowden Strawberry Paw Superior Toscana Waneta Yukon Gem Yukon Gold Spudman: What were your goals when assuming the goal of president? Alsum: My No. 1 goal was a successful transition to a new leadership team. John Keeling has done a great job of leading NPC for the past 18 years; his reputation and relationships were critical for the successes of NPC. We have a strong executive committee and we knew we had an important job and we are very thankful that the transition has gone well. We are thankful for the promotion of Kam Quarles and hiring of Mike Wenkel to lead NPC along with our very capable staff of Holly (Alexander) and Hillary (Hutchins). Beyond that, my goals were to maintain the momentum of NPC to be a leader in Washington, D.C. We continue to work on trade, regulatory, immigration and any issues that come up at the national level. SM: What are the biggest challenges facing the potato industry heading into 2020? LA: The biggest challenges that I see in 2020 are to maintain our momentum in D.C. during times of political uncertainty. I don't think that any of us know for certain what to expect. It is disappointing that our political system is so polarized and dysfunctional. It is critical for NPC to be able to work at all levels and with all parties in D.C. in order to represent our industry well. SM: How has the experience been? LA: (The NPC staff has) made my year as NPC both enjoyable and productive. Having been involved in the potato industry for most of my adult life and being able to serve at the national level for both the Potato Board and NPC has been a privilege and honor. I have met so many great people and established so many great relationships around the country. 509-582-8900 Do you need more DAMMER DIKERS? www.dammerdiker.com 22 Spudman.comhttp://www.dammerdiker.com http://www.Spudman.com