IPC appoints new commissioners
During the Idaho Potato Commission's October meeting, two new commissioners were sworn in: Brian Lundquist of Idahoan Foods LLC and Klaren Koompin, a grower in American Falls. Each will each serve three-year terms. Brian Jones of Sun Valley Potatoes was sworn in for his second term.
“The Idaho potato brand is one of the most well-known and respected brands in the world primarily due to industry leaders like Brian, Brian and Klaren,” said Jamey Higham, president and CEO of the IPC. “Strengthening the Idaho potato brand is our mission every single day. We’ve got a great year ahead of us, and I’m looking forward to working with all nine commissioners.”
The commissioners help drive the direction of the IPC’s marketing and research programs, which are all designed to increase Idaho potato consumption, encourage consumers to proactively look for the “Grown in Idaho” seal, and meet at least one of three overarching goals:
- Stimulate demand for all Idaho-branded potato products domestically and internationally.
- Educate consumers that Idaho potatoes are nutritious, heart-healthy and relevant for today’s lifestyles.
- Build consumer and customer loyalty in seeking “Grown in Idaho” products.
Nine commissioners represent Idaho potato growers, shippers and processors. They are nominated by industry peers and selected by Governor Brad Little. The commissioners are:
- Mark Darrington (Big D Farms) -- chairman
- Eric Jemmett (J&S Farms) – vice chairman
- Daren Bitter (Bittersweet Farms)
- Brian Jones (Sun Valley Potatoes)
- Klaren Koompin (Koompin Farms)
- Brian Lundquist (Idahoan Foods, LLC)
- Paul Saito (McCain Foods US)
- Mike Telford (Sun Valley Seed & Lost River Seed)
- Bryan Wada (Wada Farms)
Photo: Brian Jones (center) of Sun Valley Potatoes, who was sworn in for a second term as commission of the Idaho Potato Commission, is flanked by Brian Lundquist of Idahoan Foods and Klarin Koompin, a grower in American Falls, ID, who are the two newest commissioners.
