Notes From the Field

Max & Mandi’s Memo

It is safe to say 2020 has been an unusual year. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented its own set of unique challenges not only for our members, but for people around the world. The commitment our members have to forge ahead, despite the obstacles of 2020, is an inspiration to us all.

In his column in the Fall 2020 issue of The Pulse, CEO John Meyer commended Holstein Association members on their strength and resiliency writing, “Since March, our members have known what to do – and they have done their best in a very challenging time. The resiliency you continue to show is awe-inspiring.”

Holstein Association USA continues to move forward to serve our members while taking necessary precautions to keep our employees safe and healthy. Despite its challenges, 2020 has brought progress and even some bright spots for our valued members.

Many reasons to smile

We have enjoyed showcasing the story of Registered Holsteins through the words of our members on Holstein America, the leading dairy program on national television. If you have not had the chance to watch it yet, you can find this episode and all past episodes on our YouTube channel or on our website at www.holsteinusa.com/news/ holstein_america.html.

While we missed gathering together in person for the National Holstein Convention and at World Dairy Expo this year, we continue to recognize our phenomenal members through our usual awards. We are now accepting nominations for the 2021 Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder, Elite Breeder, and Distinguished Leadership awards. The awards are due on January 31 and applications can be found under the awards tab on our home page.

Additionally, we launched a Virtual Interview Contest for our Junior members, designed to help them foster professional development skills and stay engaged in Holstein Association activities. Other positives for our members range from new Holstein Marketplace Sires bulls to choose from to continued genetic progress for the Holstein breed.

Most recently, we conducted our November board meeting. The board approved moving forward with a three-year research project submitted to the Holstein Association’s Research Grant Program by Dr. Chad Dechow from The Pennsylvania State University. Dr. Dechow’s research, titled “Genomic evaluation of diet digestibility,” focuses on the genetic variation of digestive efficiency within Holsteins.

These are just some of the many things that have given us a reason to smile during this unusual year. To stay up to date on what is happening at Holstein USA, follow along on the Holstein Association USA social media pages and website. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube with the handle @HolsteinUSA or at holsteinusa.com.

As we reflect on 2020 and plan for the year ahead, we continue to be grateful for our members and the work you do every day. Thank you for setting a top-notch example by putting your best foot forward and continuing to provide wholesome, nutritious dairy foods to consumers, even during this challenging time. We look forward to continuing to support you and the Holstein cow we all love in the year ahead. Max & Mandi

Max Dunseth Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA 269-251-0232 • mdunseth@holstein.com

Mandi Kipp Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA Upper Peninsula of Michigan 920-530-5023 • mkipp@holstein.com