2026 Annual Meeting and Industry Dinner
by Hannah Shaw, Intern
On Thursday, July 16, the Maine Potato Board held its Annual Meeting and Industry Dinner at the home of Bruce and Val Flewelling in Easton. The event brought together potato growers, researchers, legislators, industry partners, and supporters from across the state for an evening of fellowship and recognition.
Guests enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by J&R BBQ, with dinner sponsorship provided by Maine Potato Growers and Farm Credit East.
The evening began with a welcome from Maine Potato Board Executive Director Jeannie Tapley. Bruce Flewelling then offered the blessing before guests were invited to enjoy dinner.
Following the meal, Tapley recognized the many individuals and organizations that support Maine’s potato industry. She introduced industry partners and representatives, the Maine Potato Board members, and the Maine Potato Board staff.
Maine Potato Board President Garrett Hemphill welcomed attendees and spoke about the importance of coming together to celebrate the accomplishments and continued strength of Maine’s potato industry.
Maine Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Jo D. Saffeir said a few words about how important the agriculture industry, specifically the potato industry, is to the state of Maine. She addressed the vital role the industry plays in Maine’s economy and communities.
Hemphill and Tapley then recognized the recipient of the 2026 Maine Potato Industry Recognition Award, George McLaughlin. McLaughlin was honored for his 18 years of dedicated service and commitment to the Maine potato industry.
McLaughlin expressed his gratitude to the people who supported him throughout his career. He was then presented with a United States flag that had been flown over the U.S. Capitol by Trisha House, U.S. Senator Susan Collins’ State Office Representative.
Maine State Senator Sue Bernard also presented McLaughlin with a Certificate of Special Legislative Recognition on behalf of the Maine State Senate and House of Representatives in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Maine agriculture.
The evening concluded with Hemphill and Tapley congratulating McLaughlin once again and thanking everyone in attendance for their continued support of Maine’s potato industry.
The Maine Potato Board extends its sincere thanks to Bruce and Val Flewelling for graciously hosting the event, J&R BBQ for preparing an outstanding meal, Maine Potato Growers and Farm Credit East for sponsoring the event, and everyone who helped make the evening such a memorable celebration of Maine’s potato industry.
