Idaho Potato Commission Youth Initiative Awards $7500 in Prize Money to Children Nationwide

EAGLE, Idaho, July 18, 2013—The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) “Smashed Spuddy Buddy” sweepstakes met with great success, receiving hundreds of submissions from children across the United States and awarding 75 lucky winners with an American Express gift card. Launched by the IPC in partnership with Idaho First Lady Lori Otter, the educational and interactive “Smashed Spuddy Buddy” program was designed to teach kids about the nutritional benefits of Idaho® potatoes and how they are grown.

The "Smashed Spuddy Buddy" sweepstakes encouraged schoolchildren to learn more about Idaho® potatoes with the help of the IPC's mascot

“The Idaho Potato Commission places a high value on educating young people about smart nutritional choices,” said Frank Muir, President and CEO of the IPC. “We are thrilled that the program met with such incredible response from children, while communicating the importance of Idaho® potatoes in a fun, unique way.”

To participate in the sweepstakes, kids watched an educational video entitled “How a Potato Grows” on the IPC’s website, downloaded and colored their own picture of Spuddy Buddy, and had their photo taken with him in their location of choice (with the help of a parent). Many children expressed their creativity through artistic drawing and coloring skills, while others had fun introducing Spuddy to different parts of their home or community.

Entries were received from families representing 38 different states, which demonstrates the popularity of Idaho® potatoes across the country. From these entries, 75 participants were randomly selected by the IPC to receive the $100 prize. The IPC wishes to congratulate the winners and extend its gratitude to all of the families that helped their children participate.

About the Idaho Potato Commission
Established in 1937, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is a state agency that is responsible for promoting and protecting the famous “Grown in Idaho®” seal, a federally registered trademark that assures consumers they are purchasing genuine, top-quality Idaho® potatoes. Idaho’s growing season of warm days and cool nights, ample mountain–fed irrigation and rich volcanic soil, give Idaho® potatoes their unique texture, taste and dependable performance. These ideal growing conditions are what differentiate Idaho® potatoes from potatoes grown in other states. For more information, visit: www.idahopotato.com.
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