This blog post highlights the 17-year anniversary of Traverse Bay Farms receiving a Special Tribute from the State of Michigan in 2008 and connects that recognition to today’s award-winning, Michigan-rooted success.
What Is the Traverse Bay Farms Special Tribute? A Look Back 17 Years
Published: September 2025
Quick Summary Bullets
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Explore the story behind the 2008 Special Tribute from the State of Michigan
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Learn why 17 years of recognition reflects consistency and credibility
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See how today’s 38+ national awards connect to Michigan roots
What Is the Special Tribute from the State of Michigan?
In 2008, Traverse Bay Farms was honored with a Special Tribute from the State of Michigan recognizing its leadership in industry, entrepreneurship, and contributions to the state’s economy.
This prestigious tribute was formally signed by:
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Governor Jennifer Granholm
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State Senator Jason Allen
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State Representative Kevin Elsenheimer
For a small family-owned company based in Northern Michigan, this moment was more than symbolic. It was a statement that Traverse Bay Farms was making a meaningful impact on Michigan’s economy and rural communities.
Seventeen years later, this recognition remains a cornerstone of the Traverse Bay Farms story.
Why the 2008 Special Tribute Still Matters
Most small businesses measure success by sales, growth, or product launches. But receiving a Special Tribute from the State of Michigan is something few achieve.
For Traverse Bay Farms, it symbolizes:
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Longevity – Operating since 2001, the company continues to grow while staying true to its mission.
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Community Value – The tribute validated Traverse Bay Farms’ role in supporting Michigan’s cherry industry.
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Trust – Recognition from state leadership underscores the company’s credibility and reliability.
Building on Recognition: 38+ National Food Awards
Since that 2008 milestone, Traverse Bay Farms has gone on to achieve national recognition with 38+ national food awards, making it the #1 award-winning superfruit company in America.
Today, customers enjoy:
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Sediment-Free Cherry Juice Guarantee – the only one in the entire cherry industry.
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USA-Only Sourcing – using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible, never imported cherries.
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Award-Winning Flavors – from tart cherry juice concentrate to salsas, jams, and wellness supplements.
These achievements build directly on the foundation of credibility that shows with receiving the State of Michigan Special Tribute.
What Makes Traverse Bay Farms Stand Out Today
The Special Tribute honored Traverse Bay Farms’ promise to quality, purity and consistency . That same spirit drives the company today.
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Consistency: Over two decades of reliable quality and customer trust.
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Innovation: Condition-specific supplements and award-winning gourmet foods.
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Proof: National awards and guarantees that no competitor can match.
People Also Ask
What is the Special Tribute from the State of Michigan?
It is a formal recognition awarded by the Michigan Legislature and signed by state leaders to honor individuals or businesses making a significant impact. Traverse Bay Farms received its tribute in 2008.
Who signed Traverse Bay Farms’ Special Tribute?
It was signed by Governor Jennifer Granholm, State Senator Jason Allen, and State Representative Kevin Elsenheimer.
How many awards has Traverse Bay Farms won since 2008?
The company has earned 38+ national food awards, making it America’s #1 award-winning super fruit company.
What makes Traverse Bay Farms products unique?
They offer a line of nationally award-winning products, they’re backed by the industry’s only sediment-free guarantee and made with as much Michigan-grown, USA-only fruit as possible.
Looking Ahead: From Tribute to Tomorrow
The Special Tribute from the State of Michigan in 2008 was more than a certificate—it was a recognition of values: integrity, innovation, and community. Seventeen years later, those values continue to guide Traverse Bay Farms as it introduces award-winning products and shares Michigan’s cherry heritage nationwide.
Get Started Today
Want to experience the award-winning products that helped earn Traverse Bay Farms its Special Tribute and 38+ national food awards? Explore our tart cherry juice concentrate, tart cherry capsules, barbecue sauce, salsas and no-added sugar dried cherries — backed by our industry-exclusive sediment-free guarantee and made with as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible.
References
[1] State of Michigan – Traverse Bay Farms
[2] USDA Cherry Nutrient Profile: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
[3] About Traverse Bay Farms, Awards & Recognition
