MMSA Member Perk Alert!!!

Just a reminder to all members that your Association has a professional Maple Syrup Display available for your use. The display is a table top. It has three backer board sections with Velcro fabric. The kit includes many pictures and informational clips that can be arranged on the backer boards. You can help promote Michigan Maple with this display at shows, fairs or even at a science fair. For details on availability, shipping or pick-up contact: Tom Cook (269) 684-7836 or e-mail cooktc.csinet.net

HONORARY LIFE TIME MEMBERSHIP AWARD

At the January 18, 2003 general membership meeting the Honorary Membership Award was presented to Mary and Bob Gibbs. Bob was born and raised in Mayfield. His father and uncle made syrup in a flat pan and gathered sap in wooden barrels. His grandfather saved a stand of maples from being cut and sent to the sawmill. Bob served on the MMSA Board during 1986, 1987 and 1988. Bob and Mary’s bush ranged from 300-400 taps and they last made syrup in 1999. Both Bob and Mary have been avid bicycle riders and thought nothing of riding from East Lansing to Potterville or Mason. The Gibbs’ were presented with a plaque which expressed the appreciation of MMSA for their dedication to maple.

HONORARY MEMBERSHIP

The MMSA established criteria in 1999 for the Honorary Membership Award. This membership is awarded by MMSA to a person, company or organization who is determined to be a “Friend of Maple”. It is designed as a special recognition that is given on a permanent basis.

The criteria is: 1) a producer, special friend, family or organization who produced, promoted or exhibited a special; interest in and has made significant impact on the maple industry; 2) a current or past member of the Michigan Maple Syrup Association.

MMSA would like to invite members to submit nominations for the 2004 recognition. Nominations should include a brief statement as to why the candidate is being nominated.

Please send nominations to: Ron Kistler
4049 S Pere Marquette Hwy
Ludington, MI 49431