129 In 2005, the Board asked Director David Whittaker to take the helm as President. Whittaker accepted since he had a strong background in investment and finance. Western States slowly and gradually regained its stature in the industry, and in July 2008, received Ohio Governor Ted Strickland’s E-Award in recognition of the Company’s excellence in exporting. While the outsourcing strategy had generally proven to be successful, obtaining baskets presented ongoing issues. Some vendors were unable to meet the Company’s stringent quality standards and delivery dates. As 2008 ended, the Board decided that the best solution was to resume in-house manufacturing of baskets and purchased a pair of vertical turning lathes. Western States resumed production in early 2009. The Company also brought warehousing, packing, shipping, and assembly back in-house. right: Governor (Ohio) Ted Strickland's E-Award in recognition of Western States excellence in exporting. left: St. Mary Sugar CO-OP, accompanied by Dale Robinson (R. J. Tricon Company sales agent), visited Western States for an acceptance test before the unit was shipped.