TOTUS                                                                                   
Tea of the United States Awards
Headquartered in Hawaii
November 4, 2015

Eva Lee
TOTUS Executive Director/Tea Farmer

 
Greetings and Welcome,

Over the past 12 plus years there has been ongoing tea research and the development of small family farms growing Camellia sinensis and assamica tea varietals in Hawaii and mainland US.  Previously east and west coast farms have incorporated tea agriculture and paved the way for their communities by setting examples in production methods and creating teas well suited for their climates and marketing strategies.

Now that there is an increase in domestic tea production aligned with an American origin initiative, we hope that the TOTUS Awards 2015 will encourage those who have pioneered US tea farming to gain national recognition for their uniquely crafted teas and further educate consumers supporting domestic tea agriculture. Those of us in Hawaii who are propagating, growing, farming and processing tea will continue to expand production contributing to our local economies raising support from County, State and Federal agencies. 

With a grant from the Hawaii County Office of Research and Development to co-fund a tea competition program we are launching a first for 100% American origin tea focused on a national agenda. It is our intent to not only award those participating in the TOTUS Awards 2015 competition but to also enable a broad range of communities to resource the TOTUS Awards data advancing research in domestic tea agriculture, cultural development and innovative trade.

We have a stellar panel of judges providing their expertise in identifying the best of American origin tea. Relaying their knowledge will inspire growers and consumers to experience the remarkable historical lineage of tea connecting with contemporary culture.

We hope all US tea growers, however small or large, Commercial or Non Commercial will consider entering the TOTUS Awards 2015 competition ……and that consumers and businesses might lend support to the sponsorship program …..joining our tea community partnering with a variety of organizations as shown on TOTUS Awards home page.

These are very interesting times we live in and our tea communities cultivate a plant that will outlive all of us. It is a nurturing relationship of well-being and good will.

Thank you for sharing this moment in tea.

TOTUS AWARDS PROJECT GROUP