I thought Larimore, N.D., potato grower Carl Hoverson did something pretty neat recently when he was elected chairman the United States Potato Board.

According to the Northern Potato Growers Assocaition, Hoverson accepted the gavel and thanked members for electing him as their new chairman and entrusting him with the opportunity to lead the organization.

"In a brief and unexpected departure from the meeting program, Hoverson demonstrated what his priorities are for the coming year," NPGA said.

"Who is proud of who they are? Are you proud you grow potatoes?" he asked. "Stand up if you're proud of who you are and where you're from."

Carl Hoverson urges farmers to be proud of what they do and what they have accomplished.

With the conference room standing, Hoverson stepped back from the stand, and pulled on a University of North Dakota hockey jersey. He then led the meeting in three cheers for "USA! USA! USA!"

Hoverson's challenge for the USPB was to take pride in the organization, take pride in who they are and what they’ve accomplished. He rallied a new call for teamwork and doing what's best for the industry, finding new ways for the industry to work together and achieving higher goals.

In this day age, when everyone seems to be criticizing farmers and ranchers for something, Hoverson’s rallying cry was good to hear.

Be proud of what you do. Be proud of who you are. Be proud of what you've accomplished.

Hoverson will host the USPB's 2015 Summer Meeting in Grand Forks in August.

I wonder how he will top his acceptance speech?