From the Jersey Desk

Michigan Jersey Cattle Club From the Jersey Desk

Winter is fading and we are anticipating the opportunity that comes with spring. It continues to be an exciting time in the Jersey breed, as Jerseys remain one of the most sought-after breeds in the dairy industry. I’m so appreciative for the opportunity to lead this organization as we focus on our mission to promote the Jersey breed.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with me. My husband, Drew, and I own and operate Thistle Dew Dairy in Vassar, home of Thistle Dew Jerseys and King Street Holsteins. We milk a small herd of 45 head of mostly Jerseys with Holsteins making up about a quarter of the herd. We have two little ones, 4 year-old Braxton and 2 year-old Charlotte. In addition to farm duties, I work for Michigan Farm Bureau representing the farmer members of the thumb region.

Along with my election as your president in earlier February, we celebrated the Jersey breed at our annual meeting and like spring-time we walked out of the meeting with new opportunities.

One of the biggest changes coming to the club is the addition of Suzanne Tuttila as our secretary/treasurer. We are excited to welcome her to the Jersey family. Suzanne is a familiar face to most as her dedication to the Michigan Holstein Association has helped them flourish. We look forward to her organization and excitement as she takes on this additional role.

We would like to thank Brent Moyer, Mary Costigan, and Carrie Delong, retiring president, vice president, and secretary respectively, for their leadership and dedication to the club over the past years.

We are thrilled to welcome Allison Schafer, your new vice president; Jeff Dawson, as third-member; and Lauren Siver as a new at-large member. The board looks forward to serving our members. Please feel free to reach out to me or any other board members if you have ideas on how we can better serve you and promote the jersey.

We look forward to kicking off the show season. And watching those lovely ladies parade around the ring.

I wish you all safe and productive spring, filled with opportunity.

Beth Rupprecht President MJCC 989-640-6913