I am writing from Decatur, Tennessee where, having spent the past week, Mendy and Tammy have shown me the true meaning of Southern Hospitality. It has been a real pleasure to watch our two paid staff members working so hard to maintain the day to day operations of our Cooperative.

Tammy is busy entering the clip contribution reports from 2004/2005 into the database so that we can send out those member statements that so many of us have waited so long for. We are still waiting for a few straggling reports to come in from Tapetes - mainly for suri fiber, which they have not quite finished sorting yet.

Our Cooperative recently provided 250 pairs of our Extreme Alpaca ™ socks at near cost for shipment to troops in Iraq. This was a big hit with the troops. In the words of Staff Sergeant Christopher Bertomeu:

"I am a soldier currently deployed to Iraq. One of my co-workers family members sent me a pair of your socks. Never has combat patrolling been so comfortable as in a pair of your…alpaca socks…I wouldn't trade them for a pair of tennis shoes at this point. Just wanted to let you know how great your product is and it is enjoyed by all of the members in my Platoon now. Thanks for the support…"

Our socks were so well received that AFCNA has decided to offer a 20% price reduction on all retail sock purchases delivered to a military address. This includes designer line socks as well.

Of course, members can still purchase AFCNA socks at wholesale cost. We are able to offer flat rate shipping of $8.70 for any order shipped to a military address. This would be a good time to support our Cooperative while supporting our troops!

Please welcome Dick Kandicko as our new Director. At the February 14, 2007 Board meeting Dick was direct appointed to a three year term. Dick has worked for the Kimberly-Clark Corporation for 23 years in the Sourcing & Supply Management Department and will provide essential skills to the Board as we continue to develop our supply and production pipelines. Dick and his wife Patty have been raising alpacas since 1997. He served as both Vice-President and President of the Great Lakes Alpaca association for 5 years, and also served on the AOBA Affiliate Committee. He has been a member of AFCNA since 1999.

Finally, take a moment to go to the Americas Alpaca website to check out our new Deisgner Line. The AlpacAllure line allows us to offer lighter-weight lady's sweaters that are casual, yet fashionable. These sweaters are not available in large quantities. Purchasing from the AlpacAllure designer line is like having your own private designer.

John Merrell, President
Alpaca Fiber Cooperative of North America