A Baldone-grown potato reportedly gained consciousness yesterday and has retained legal counsel to address 'centuries of reductive typecasting.' The tuber released a statement saying it's 'more than just a food item' and is exploring opportunities in performance art.

'For too long, potatoes have been associated with Latvian cuisine in a reductive manner,' the potato's lawyer stated. 'My client wishes to be seen as a multifaceted individual, not just a side dish.'

The sentient potato, who prefers to go by 'Spud' (preferred pronouns: they/them), has expressed interest in modern dance and interpretive poetry.

'I have feelings,' Spud communicated via a series of carefully arranged sprouts. 'I dream. I hope. I am more than boiled, mashed, or fried.'

The Latvian Cuisine Association declined to comment, though sources report they are 'deeply concerned' about the implications for national food identity.