FAIRFIELD, Pa. — Maola Local Dairies (Maola) members gathered for the cooperative’s 105th annual meeting here in late March, joining Maola’s leadership to engage in cooperative business, as well as learn from outside experts.

The 2-day meeting featured remarks from U.S. Dairy Export Council President and CEO Krysta Harden, Dairy Management Incorporated Chair Marilyn Hershey, National Dairy Promotion and Research Board Chair Joanna Shipp, MilkPEP’s Senior VP of Marketing Al Dejewski, Mike McCully of The McCully Group, author and speaker Ty Bennett, among numerous others.

“We are turning our sights to a new peak in our farmer-owned cooperative,” said Jon Cowell, CEO, Maola Local Dairies. “As we make strategic investments in our farms, our network of plants, and our top-notch staff and customers, we will create a milk ecosystem that allows us to deliver Maola dairy products to every home on the East Coast.”

The speakers highlighted the importance of a diversified international marketplace, the constant need to innovate and add value to fluid milk products, and the need for always on marketing tactics that reach consumers where they are both digitally and in cultural events. Maola farmers also participated in a unique live taste testing of a potential new item in Maola’s product innovation pipeline.

Maola leadership also recognized members and supply chain partners for their significant contributions to the business.

Bowman Brothers was named the Maola Producer of the Year. Located outside of New Enterprise, Pa., Bowman Brothers Farm is owned and operated by Chris and Richard Bowman. Initially milking 80 cows, the farm has grown significantly, now managing 180 cows across five farms, covering over 500 acres. The Bowmans are committed to producing high-quality milk, adhering to strict standards and practices to ensure the safety and well-being of both their animals and the land they farm.

“The thing that differentiates Maola products on store shelves is our family farmers like the Bowman Brothers,” said Cowell. “It’s an honor for us to have this Pennsylvania farm family as our 2025 Maola Producer of the Year.”

White Gold Transport, LLC was named Maola Hauler of the Year. Founded in June of 2013 by Scott and Ann Radel, White Gold Transport started as a small operation hauling two loads of milk per day with just two tractors, two trailers, and two employees. Over the years, their commitment to quality and efficiency has fueled significant growth. White Gold consistently meets Maola’s high standards by ensuring on-time deliveries, accurate manifests, and meticulous tanker maintenance, all while maintaining strong relationships with farmers and processing plants.

“Our haulers link our farms to our processing plants,” said Cowell. “As our cooperative has grown, our focus on food safety has become even more pronounced. We appreciate White Gold Transport for being a steward of our milk and protecting its quality as it travels down the road to be bottled.”

Donald and Gabrielle Miller from Williamsburg, Pa., were recognized as Maola’s Outstanding Young Cooperators (YCs). As first-generation dairy farmers, the Millers built their farm from the ground up and take immense pride in their work. They are passionate about representing the cooperative and advocating for the future of the dairy industry.

“It’s important for young faces to step into leadership roles, ensuring the future of our industry remains strong,” said Gabrielle.

Maola was also honored to celebrate a 75-year member at their annual meeting … the Hardestys of Harvue Farms of Berryville,Virginia. Founded in 1949, Harvue Farms has been in continuous operation for five generations. Now, milking 280 cows and farming over 400 acres, the farm stands as a testament to resilience, family values, and community service.

“We’ve been blessed to be able to do it,” says David Hardesty. “It takes a lot of sacrifice, not just from our family, but from dedicated employees who’ve been with us for years.”