On Saturday February 28, 1998 the Little Marsh, Fire Hall was packed with 150 in attendance, in spite of a large farm auction being held the same day. Prior to the meeting a milk punch reception prepared by the Tioga County Dairy Maids. During the reception several vendors were available for the producers to visit. The meeting was opened, followed by an invocation by Tom Brown, then an excellent meal was served. Thanks was given to Pauline Graves who had catered the dinner for the 11th year. There were several special guests in attendance, Dairy Maids, Veronica Miles, and Amanda Graves. Howard Kravitz (Emkay Products Pres / CEO), and Ray Haberer (Emkay Products Plant Mgr.), David C. Arms (Berkshire Dairy & Food Products, Economist & Dairy Consultant), Philo & Clarice Furness (Scott Brothers Trucking Owners), and Craig Williams (Tioga County Extension Agent).
The business session was opened with the proof due of notice and minutes read by Bonnita Gilman secretary. President Donald Gilman gave his annual report. starting out by thanking the board for the many hours and remarkable efforts made. A special appreciation was extended to Vice President Denny Graves for his contribution on a daily Basis. Don explained the wild ride this past year with Federal Order prices, and the changes to major Co-Ops through their mergers and new marketing structures. He explained The transition to Federal Order Reform, and the possibilities of programs to carry us over the development period, prior to that change. Don says they will continues to expand their Web Page, and will work toward the availability of producer information access from the Home Page. More producers are taking advantage of Direct Deposit for quicker access to their money. The devastating Ice Storms in the North Country left Dairy Farms and others at the end of their rope. Middlebury Cooperative gave a donation to help the farms rebuild. Don concluded his report with statistics of premiums and bonuses for 1997. The total sales of again topped $20 million dollars, with additional sales and creative decisions the Co-Op was able to pay additional Premiums of $300,000 and quarterly bonus checks of over $132,000 including the year end check passed out at the meeting. Along with these bonuses and premiums, any Member shipping with Middlebury Co-Op for more than 2 years had their dues returned, amounting to another $34,000. Don stated that with these premiums and bonuses over the blend price, and continued low hauling, we remain Dues Free and yield the highest net return in the area.
Denny Graves Vice President and Audit Committee Chairman, gave the Audit Report. Denny explained the Balance sheet, assets, liabilities and all equates to a retained earnings of $50,000 leaving the Co-Op in a good financial position. Denny continues with the nominating report. There were two Director terms up, the committee nominated Don Gilman, and Denny Graves for re-election. Jeff Baker (Director) asked for nominations from the floor. No nominations were heard and Don and Denny remain for an another 3 year term.
Don introduced the guests and asked each to say a few words. Howard Kravitz from Emkay Product said he was very pleased with the quality of the milk we have been supplying them with and enjoyed working with us. Dave Arms with Berkshire said he has never known a cooperative of our type with innovative workings and always enjoys working together. He had testified at the hearing on flooring the BFP, and gave some thoughts on that issue. Dave also gave some thoughts on the North East Dairy Compact, and where he felt we stand in relation to it. The Dairy Maids Amanda Graves, and Veronica Miles, said they appreciated the opportunity to come to our meeting and enjoyed it very much. Craig Williams again this year gave some delightful humorous stories and jokes, that really lighted up the afternoon, and thanked us for inviting him back.
In closing the meeting Quality Plaques were awarded to 12 exceptional dairymen that averaged less than 10,000 Bacteria, and less than 200,000 Cell Count for 12months. The awards were given to, Lorry Butler, Tim & Melvin Easton, Glenn Bowen, Bill & Dian Lichty, Barry & Michel Brubaker, Duane & Melanie Brubaker, Marvin & Lydia Yoder, Mike & Shirly Thompson, Brett Williamson, Mark & Elizabeth Pinny, John Undercoffler, and Ransom Bowen. There were also 24 Quality Certificates awarded to the dairymen that averaged Less than 25,000 Bacteria, and less than 350,000 Cell Count for 12months.
The Meeting ended with the drawing of door prizes, and hats, butter, cheese, and thermometers were given to each producer. The members left with a full belly and a good feeling of what our local Co-Op had accomplished in 1997.