Well, I put my daughter to work today. I was tired of looking at the same old pictures on the AFCNA E-Store (some of which go back 4 or 5 years), so I decided to update them a bit. I am not known as a particularly good photographer, but with a model like this it is hard to go wrong!!

One of the functions that AFCNA fills for our members is to supply a wide variety of alpaca fiber products at wholesale prices. Members can purchase these for personal use, or for resale. This program has served us well and provides needed cash to process member fiber into yarns and finished goods.

In addition to the Designer Lines (such as RedMaple Sportswear) which I wrote about in my last message, we also offer Americas Alpaca private label products. In the photo to the right my daughter is showing off a hand knit 100% baby alpaca scarf. This scarf, which was made in Peru, has an attractive 3 cable pattern and comes in 4 colors. At first touch it seems very light weight, but it is deceivingly warm. Because, as a cooperative, we are able to combine our purchasing power, these high quality scarves are available to members for a low $27.50! A scarf like this will see years of use. Suitable for casual use, it is also stylish enough to match the most sophisticated setting. A perfect gift for that special person, or even for a bit of self indulgence.

Now, on the left, my daughter is showing off the AFCNA Everywhere Zip Vest. This vest is a 70% alpaca/30% Pima cotton blend and sports the Americas Alpaca private label. It is available in three colors, but we only have medium, large and extra large sizes. Exceptionally warm and functional, it is great for a chilly day, or to use as a layer when it really gets cold. These vests are usually member priced at $70, but between now and Christmas we are offering them to members for only $60 when two or more are purchased. This is a wonderful opportunity to stock up the farm store or to get some unique gifts for a very reasonable price.

Sales of the co-op's Extreme Alpaca™ Socks have exceeded all forecasts. We have already sold more of these socks this Holiday season than we did in all of last year. I am disappointed to report that they are now on backorder. Even with a production of over 100 pair a day we have been unable to keep up with the demand. Our vendor is now working overtime producing these, and we hope to have all existing orders filled in time for Christmas. We apologize for running out of this popular item, but sales continue to exceed all expectations. Our production is almost double what it was this time last year and still we are unable to keep up with the demand.

I, and the rest of the Board hope that this is a very special Holiday season for you and your family. We appreciate your continued support of the cooperative as work to solidify the gains of the past two years.

Sincerely,

John Merrell, President
Alpaca Fiber of North America, Inc.

P.S. Aren't kids great?