COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The American Meat Institute (AMI) honored several industry members on Saturday during the group’s annual business meeting in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Phil Clemens, chairman and CEO, Clemens Family Corp. of Hatfield, Penn., was honored today by the AMI with its highest award: the Industry Advancement Award.

The Clemens Family Corp., which includes Hatfield Quality Meats, is known for its high ethical standards, fair business practices and generosity toward its community. Clemens has shared the benefit of his experience as a family business executive through lectures at universities nationwide, most recently at the AMI Foundation’s (AMIF) own Family Business Workshop at Loyola University of Chicago. He has served on AMI’s board and executive committee and as an officer and chairman.

“Phil has been a tireless servant of our industry for decades and a moral compass for many of us,” said outgoing AMI Chairman Dave Miniat, who presented the award. “I am happy to pay tribute to my colleague and friend.”

Dean Danilson Ph.D, vice president of food safety and quality assurance at Tyson Foods Inc. in Dakota Dunes, S.D., was honored today with the 2008 AMIF Scientific Achievement Award.

Amazing Taste Foods, Inc., of Malibu, Calif., was named AMI’s 2008 Supplier of the Year.

Cooper Farms of Oakwood, Ohio, has been awarded the AMI’s Edward C. Jones Community Service Award. Cooper Farms is marking its 70th anniversary this year, having been started by Virgil and Virginia Cooper in 1938.

Source: American Meat Institute