MMSA 46th Annual Meeting
Doherty Hotel, Clare MI
1-20-07 9:30 AM

Mr. Russell Kidd welcomed us and introduced his guest from the MSUE Educational Staff.

Prior to the opening of this meeting we were privileged to have member Ralph Rieckman from Rockford MI present us with a bagpipe music special. We were also saddened to learn of the death of member Sue Whitman from LaPeer, MI. We extend our condolences to her husband, Steve, and family.

Ohio’s National Committee spokesperson, Dick Schorr, presented us with a glimpse of next years National meeting to be held on October 21-24, 2007 in Akron Ohio.

Tim Boonstra presented the Secretary's Report as published in the Fall Newsletter. Minutes were accepted by the membership as printed.

The Treasurer’s Report was presented by Tom Cook in the absence of Treasurer Arnold Hammel. The printed details given to each member were approved as stated.

Mark Battel, our election committee chairman, conducted the election of Board Members. Candidates included Bernard Aiken, Tim Boonstra, Dale Forrester, Gerald Nelson and Ron Thomas. All were recognized and introduced to members. Board members elected to fulfill a three year term were Ron Thomas, Dale Forrester and Tim Boonstra.

Jean Maday presented the IMSI Report. She stated that the color wheel has not been widely accepted by people and will probably pass by the wayside. Also, lead issues continue to persist primarily in Canada and Ohio, where testing is ongoing. The large quantity of bulk syrup missing from a Canadian warehouse was insured and will be compensated for at a rate of 90% replacement value. Through testing done this past year, evidence has documented that air injected “Bubblers” within the syrup pans do produce lighter colored syrup. However, flavor continues to advance as the season progresses.

Ron Thomas then gave us his NAMSC Report. The new maple syrup production manuals are now available at dealers, Ohio State University and other places of business such as through Associations.
The Annual Fall Tour will be held in the Benton Harbor area and will be hosted by the Flagel Family Sugarbush.

Cathi Bates gave us an update on the progress of the National Meeting to be held in Michigan in 2011. Anyone willing to help organize and work on the project would be appreciated. The Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth is being considered quite favorably for the site of this event.

Member Roger Griner gave us information from a legislative standpoint concerning the classification of maple syrup as an agricultural product. To obtain status would relieve us from personal property taxes on equipment associated with maple syrup production. Joel Sheltrowd (D) will be introducing legislation to this effect when the opportunity arrives. At that time correspondence will be sent out to MMSA Members urging them to contact and encourage legislators to vote in favor of this proposal.

Our featured speaker, Bradley Gillilan, then presented us with an educational seminar geared toward optimizing our efficiency within the sugarhouse—Primarily evaporation tips and shortcuts.

As the day wound down Terry Coleman, our syrup contest chairman, explained contest rules and grading standards. The winners of this years events were as follows:

Congratulations to all the winners of these contests!

With all business taken care of the meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully Submitted, Tim Boonstra, Secretary