tFRANKENMUTH — The Michigan Bean Commission has named Joe Cramer as its new executive director, tapping the 27-year industry veteran to lead an association that has helped make Michigan one of the largest bean producers nationally and globally.
t“I am truly honored and humbled to help the industry grow and support Michigan family businesses that I have worked with virtually my entire career in agriculture,” Cramer said. “Michigan bean growers and the industry as a whole represent some of the hardest working people who are a true bright spot our economy, attracting investments and creating new jobs and opportunities. I look forward to working with all parties to help Michigan’s bean industry remain competitive in a 21st Century economy, and that includes building new partnerships, deploying the latest science and technology, and supporting policies that promote growth and jobs.”
tThe Michigan Bean Commission represents more than 2,500 bean growers in Michigan. Michigan’s bean-growing region is centered around the Thumb and Saginaw Valley region, stretching as far west as Kent, Mecosta and Montcalm counties. Michigan is the nation’s No. 1 producer of black, cranberry and small red beans. Michigan is the nation’s second-largest overall producer of dry beans. Michigan’s top markets include the United States, Canada and Mexico.
tCramer said his priorities include promoting the industry and supporting and implementing the latest research and development.
tA longtime resident of Frankenmuth, Cramer was most recently vice president of the edible bean marketing section atStar of the West Milling Co. in Frankenmuth, serving in that position since 1992. Cramer is a graduate of Morley Stanwood High School in Mecosta County and the Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
