May 05, 2017
Friday, May 5, 2017
LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the initial appointments to the Michigan Blueberry Commission that became effective on May 1, 2017, after Michigan blueberry growers voted to create the Commission earlier this year.
Created through the farmer-initiated process outlined in the Agricultural Commodities Marketing Act, this program was developed for improving the economic position and competitiveness of the Michigan blueberry industry by supporting research, education and promotion programs.
“I thank these individuals for their commitment to supporting and improving Michigan’s blueberry industry, and securing Michigan’s place as a national leader in blueberry production,” said Snyder.
Members with terms expiring December 31, 2017:
Dennis Vander Kooi of Allegan is part owner and president of Woodland Enterprises, Inc. He is a member of the North American Blueberry Council and has served on the Michigan Blueberry Advisory Committee and the Michigan Temporary Producer Committee. He attended Davenport University.
Members with terms expiring December 31, 2018:
Jacob Clemons of South Haven is the farm manager for Berry Fresh Farms, LLC. As farm manager, Clemons oversees the Fresh Food Facilities Food Safety Program. Clemons holds a certificate in plant health and integrated pest management from Michigan State University.
Shelly Ann Hartmann of South Haven is the owner, operator, and a member of True Blue Farms, LLC, and all subsidiary True Blue Companies. Hartmann served as chairperson of the Michigan Blueberry Advisory Committee and on the board of the Michigan National Blueberry Festival Committee. She currently serves on the board of the United States Highbush Blueberry Council and the South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce.
Cheryl Sullins of Grand Junction established a blueberry farm in 1984, and is currently expanding farming operations. Sullins is the manager of Jubilee Blueberry Packhouse where she oversees day-to-day operations.
Members with terms expiring December 31, 2019:
Creela Overton Hamlin of South Haven is the owner of Lake Michigan Berry, LLC, a blueberry farm in South Haven. She also is a southwest Michigan representative and commodity development associate for Peterson Farms in Shelby. Hamlin serves as president on the Michigan Blueberry Advisory Committee and is a certified crop advisor. Hamlin holds a bachelor’s degree in natural resource management from Grand Valley State University.
Steven Hunt of Grand Junction is the owner and president of New Horizon Harvest Corporation, a blueberry farm in Grand Junction. Hunt serves on the Michigan State Horticulture Society, is a Michigan Farm Bureau member, and is a VanBuren County Historical Society member. He attended Western Michigan University.
James Sumners of Grand Junction is owner/operator of Ja/De’s Blueberry Farms, harvesting 55 acres of blueberries. Sumners grows, harvests, and oversees the daily duties of the farm.
After initial appointments, members will serve three-year terms. Their appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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