ELIZABETHTOWN, PA. — At the closing banquet of the American Association of Meat Processors Convention on Aug. 3 in Omaha, Neb., the association presented the AAMP Annual Achievement Award to Rick and Carolyn Leiding of Leiding’s Meats and Catering, Danville, Ill.

“The people we are honoring tonight have always been willing to share their knowledge and personal time on behalf of the small meat processing industry for many years,” said Chris Young, executive director of AAMP, during the award presentation.

After some time stationed in Germany while serving in the US Army in the 1970s, Rick decided to pursue his dream by working tirelessly at a meat processing plant to reach a point where he and his wife Carolyn could purchase their own facility. 

Ultimately, in 1997, Rick and Carolyn realized their dream and opened up Leiding’s Meats and Catering.

AAMP stated that both owners are constantly pushing boundaries, experimenting with new flavors and techniques to create truly exceptional products. 

“Rick’s dedication to research and development has been a hallmark of his career,” the association said. “Rick and Carolyn work tirelessly to collaborate with other businesses, by testing and experimenting with new products and flavors.”

Rick’s work has led to numerous cured meat awards, including wins at the IAMP product show, Illinois State Fair, and AAMP cured meats championships. In 2014, Rick was inducted into the American Cured Meats Hall of Fame.

Rick served on various boards of directors for both the Illinois Association of Meat Processors and the American Association of Meat Processors, as well as sharing his knowledge by teaching multiple seminars for both associations. 

Along with their business, Rick and Carolyn have shown support at their church, the FFA, and local foodbanks to help people in their community have good protein to eat.