2023 Minnesota Dairy Princess Specical Edition

DAIRY ST R

Minnesota Dairy Princess Special Edition

Drawing dairy farms closer

Rynda makes memories with youth to create educational impact

By Amy Kyllo amy.k@star-pub.com

MONTGOMERY,

Minn. – The air is filled with laughter and the garlic scent of pasta. A curly haired little girl in a tulle dress grabs the finger of the 69th Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Rachel Rynda, so she can be spun around on the dance floor yet one more time. The scene is the Mounds View Police Department’s daddy-daughter dance, where the disco ball sparkles almost as bright as the smiles on the young girls’ faces.

The magical night began with attendees connecting with Rynda over their shared interest: dads and daughters. Festively surrounded by streamers with her own dad beside her, Rynda shared her story.

“I got to say, … ‘This is my dad; together this is what we do on our farm … to get dairy products to you and your families,’” Rynda said.

Rynda’s introduction to the dairy community began as a baby tucked into a stroller in the alleyway of her parent’s barn in Le Sueur County near Montgomery. Rynda said some of her initial memories come from their barnyard whether petting kittens or helping her mom feed calves.

“Since I was just a little girl, I was 100% hands deep in the barn,” Rynda said.

Now, with a crown on her head, Rynda has been sharing her chapter of dairy’s story. Authenticity has been her goal

since the beginning of the process of becoming Princess Kay.

“If it’s me, it’s going to be me,” Rynda said. “It’s going to be my words and my thoughts and what truly is heartfelt in the dairy industry to me.”

As a dairy farm girl, a key message for Rynda has been that 94% of dairy farms are family owned, just like her family’s farm, owned by parents, Francis and Theresa Rynda.

“My goal this year is to share that dairy farms are closer than we think,” Rynda

said.

When it comes to events, children find a way to Rynda’s heart. She enjoys visiting classrooms because the kids are eager to learn.

Rynda fills her presentations with interactive questions and pictures from her own farm or farms she has visited. She wants her visits to be conversational, memorable and make an impact on the children.

As Rynda sits at a lunch table with eager students, she is quick to ask them about their lives. From something as simple as owning a pet, Rynda

can make a connection back to dairy farming.

One shy little boy with dark brown eyes stays in Rynda’s memory. Dressed in a sweater, he waited until the very end of a class visit to tell her she was the most beautiful princess he had ever seen. She has also visited with older students. She spent time with a high school group of students who had no experience in agriculture.

Located in the Twin Cities suburb of Eden Prairie, Rynda shared her experiences on the dairy farm to students, whom Rynda said were excited.

Introducing the county dairy princesses for 2023

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Rachel Rynda is the 69th Princess Kay of the Milky Way from Le Sueur County. A key message Rynda shared is 94% of dairy farms are family owned. She grew up on a dairy farm near Montgomery, Minnesota.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Princess Kay Rachel Rynda smiles beside a student making ice cream in a bag at a school visit. Rynda encourages students to share what they have learned with someone at home.

This year, there are 90 county dairy princesses representing the dairy industry in their respective counties across Minnesota. Dairy princesses must have a dairy connection in one of the following ways: They or their family owns and operates a dairy farm; they or their parents work on a dairy farm; they or their parents custom-raise dairy cattle for another farm; or they or their parents own or lease a dairy animal which is housed on another dairy farm.

Benton County

Parents: Robert Jr. and Rose Beauchamp Foley, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I plan to attend Minnesota State University-Moorhead to major in psychology and minor in art therapy. I live on my parents’ farm near Rice, Minnesota. We raise beef and dairy steers calves. We also own a farm near Duelm, Minnesota, where we custom raise replacement heifers.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess leadership skills and communication skills to talk to people and represent our dairy industry.

Jacqualynn Beauchamp, 18

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Foreston Farmers Co-op Creamery Foreston, MN

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What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? There are many new alternatives to dairy products, but have you considered if there are any benefits to the alternatives? Before you buy the new flashy alternative, take a look and compare the label to a natural dairy product. Many milk alternatives do not have the minerals milk has. Those are minerals the body needs. Is new truly better than old reliable?

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with kids because I want them to understand dairy is an important part of a balanced diet, giving them the calcium they need in order to keep strong bones and is a key part of a healthy body.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend to choose the natural dairy products, because many of the alternatives are mostly lacking the minerals the body gains from milk. There are more cons than pros to plant-based milk alternatives.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I play an important role by educating children about the benefits of dairy and promoting dairy to adults by handing out dairy products during the summer.

Benton County continued

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am hard working and responsible. I get the job done well in a timely manner and then go above and beyond. I dive head first into opportunities and give everything my all. Growing up on the farm, I have strongly instilled knowledge and love for the industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Plant juice is not milk. Many false milk substitutes are on the market and can never replace true dairy goodness. Milk is naturally both more nutritious and delicious. By definition, milk comes from mammals.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect mostly with children and young adults. Many of my peers have misconceptions about dairy foods and dairy farming. I would love to inform and educate today’s youth about dairy products.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would promote milk. If the friend was dealing with lactose intolerance, I would either suggest lactose-free milk or a gradual introduction to milk. A tolerance can often be built up to lactose if one allows their body to get used to the lactose.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? At the county level, I both sell and give away dairy products that have been consumed by the people I helped. I share information about the health benefits of dairy to encourage consumers to purchase dairy products for their own good.

Brown County

Parents: Mike and Jenna Griebel New Ulm, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a sophomore at Dordt University. I am an animal science major. I live and work on my family dairy as well as work on a dairy in Iowa while I am in school. On my home farm, we milk about 190 cows with a mix of Holstein, Brown Swiss and Jersey. I am interested in being in dairy nutrition and being able to work with dairy farmers as well as still be involved in dairy and agriculture after college.

Elizabeth Griebel, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: Minnesota Dairy Initiative mn-dairy-initiative.org

Brown County continued

mins and minerals that we need in our body. I would encourage them to understand what they are putting in their body and why they should choose something that will benefit their health and be able to get the full nutrients they need.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I play a role in encouraging dairy consumption and promoting all the benefits that it has for us. I am constantly advocating for why we should have this in our daily consumption and how we need it.

Parents: Bruce and Jacki Kyllonen

Sleepy Eye, Minnesota

Sophie

Tell us about yourself. My first and longest involvement was at Roseview Dairy. I milked, fed and vaccinated calves, scraped pens and did other odd jobs. I also lease their heifers and cows to show at my county level. At Riverside Dairy, I’ve grown up helping my grandparents when I could. I usually milked, fed calves, gave vaccines, helped with fieldwork and other small jobs. At Olmar Farms, I worked independently due to the lack of help but gained other skills quickly. I’ve gotten to work at multiple dairy farms and grew in my love toward the people and the animals in the industry. Since I don’t live on a dairy farm, I plan to have a feeder farm. Due to the breed and gender of these calves, dairy farms can’t use offspring in the dairy industry, such as dairy-beef crossbreds or bull calves. By taking these dairy animals and making them feeders, it helps the dairy farmer by increasing their profit besides dairy products and gives the animal a further chance to grow into a profitable carcass. By doing this, I would take these animals that wouldn’t have been useful in the dairy industry and in turn make them useful for the meat industry.

19

Minnesota

Heidi Montag,17

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a leader and want to advocate for agriculture and dairy. Being a dairy princess, we get this opportunity all the time. I am dedicated and always want to find ways to be part of the change for the better in the agriculture world as well as my home farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My knowledge of the dairy industry due to the different farm experiences, my communication skills due to my passion and excitement of sharing knowledge to others, and my creative thinking to show there is more than one way to answer a question or to explain something about the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers do everything in their power to make sure the cows’ health and care comes first because there are a lot of stigmas surrounding the dairy industry. My role is to educate people who don’t know much or who have questions about the dairy industry. To make sure the public is educated and open to the dairy industry is my favorite part of being a dairy princess. This is because I have a lot of hands-on experience.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The key demographic I want to connect with is 10- to 16-year-olds. These kids are our future, and educating this age would instill proper knowledge about dairy products, who and how they make dairy products, and how the dairy industry runs.

Dairy Star Sponsors: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Gilman Co-op Creamery gilmancreamery.com

320-387-2770

Tell us about yourself. I grew up and work on my parents’ farm, Montag Dairy. I milk cows, feed calves and do just about anything else my parents need me to do each day. Aside from the farm and being a dairy princess, I also work at Subway in Foley. I am serving as the vice president of the Sauk Rapids-Rice FFA Chapter, and I am an extremely active member. I am also a member of the Benton/ Mille Lacs County Farm Bureau. I plan on pursuing a degree in social studies education and having a role in politics at some point in my life.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The vital and nutritional value of dairy products. They provide nutrients that are important for our health as well as the vitamins and minerals our bodies need to properly function. I would like to share this with consumers to promote dairy nutrition for people as well as some misunderstandings that arise and helping others understand the importance of dairy products.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The youth of the community. I want to inform them of why dairy is important for our community as well as why the dairy products are good for our health as well. I want to encourage them to want to understand the future of agriculture as well as their involvement in the industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Choose dairy products that have the best nutrient value. Whole milk and 2% are filled with lots of vita-

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Depending on what their preferences and diet restrictions are, I would help them choose which option they would like the best. I love anything dairy, so trying new dairy items and telling people about them is the best part. But when you have diet restrictions, it is hard to try to enjoy dairy products like milk and cookies or ice cream. People can consume lactose-free cheeses or blend fruit into ice cream, which helps get the calcium intake.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I make sure to tell people to drink milk after exercising. Milk helps with muscle repair and growth, gives an energy boost, prevents dehydration, gives electrolytes and is affordable.

Parents: Brian and Christa Montag Sauk Rapids,

Kyllonen,

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Parents: Loran and Heidi Sellner Sleepy Eye, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I live and work on my family’s robotic dairy farm. I help with feeding bottle calves, giving vaccinations, cleaning out pens and barns, mixing feed for the dry and lactating cows, and fieldwork like hauling loads, raking alfalfa, picking up bales and operating machinery. I plan to attend South Dakota State University to major in ag education and minor in animal science.

Gracie Sellner, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Minnesota Dairy Initiative

mn-dairy-initiative.org

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate sharing my knowledge of the dairy industry and our family farm’s story. I am also responsible, organized, approachable and a caring person. One proud moment our family experienced was when we transitioned our farm to robotic milking. This gave our cows and farm some reliability in our daily schedule. Once trained, our cows can choose when they feel like going to get milked. My dad makes sure no cow is forgotten by monitoring them on the computer frequently and walking the barn twice a day. I enjoy sharing how we care for our animals and how their milk is wholesome, nutritious and versatile. There are many tasty dairy products easily available for everyone to try.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers work hard to produce healthy, safe food while continuing to carefully and diligently look after their dairy. Also, farmers ensure the animals in their care are properly fed and have their health monitored. Cow health and comfort is the priority on our farms. Our animals’ health and welfare comes before ours.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Young adults. Some of the things I have observed is their lack of understanding of how we care for our animals and the importance of including dairy in their daily diets. Many people are getting further removed from farms, and they use the internet to get their information. Google is a handy tool, but with all the information out there, it can be difficult to sort through all the articles to find the truth. I want to make sure they are getting the truth to their questions and understand how important dairy products are for them.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell them to read food labels first. It’s important to read the food labels and see what’s in the foods we eat. Dairy products are natural, wholesome and nutritious. There are many dairy products to try.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I would like to be a resource for others to go to to get the correct information about how nutritious and healthy dairy products are. Another way I can encourage dairy consumption is to be seen eating dairy products in public. I love milk both flavored and white. I love ice cream, cheese and yogurt with granola. If a mother shares with me that she has a hard time getting her child to drink milk, I would suggest to make sure the milk is cold and to try flavored milk.

Midwest Dairy and returning home to the farm after college to start a business.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My love for working with children, willingness to take on new challenges and effective communication.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The quality nutrients dairy foods contain. For example, milk is packed with vitamins, proteins and calcium. Dairy farmers are also some of the hardest workers to ensure people are provided with the best dairy items.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with the local people in our community who don’t necessarily have a connection to the dairy industry. One of my goals as a dairy princess is to support our farmers and show people who aren’t as familiar with the dairy industry how much dairy impacts their lives and how connected they are to the industry without even knowing it. I would like to help them learn more about the industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend to purchase dairy products because of the ways it benefits dairy farmers that produce those products. Farmers are the backbone of this country and do so much for society. The least we can do is support them by buying their products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I play a big role in encouraging dairy consumption as a part of a healthy lifestyle. As someone who also lifts, I am always encouraging other gym members to rehydrate themselves using dairy products. A key dairy product to consume after a workout is chocolate milk. Chocolate milk helps refuel exhausted muscles and replenishes what the body loses during a strenuous exercise.

Carver County

Parents: Jeff and Deb Brueggemeier Carver, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Waconia High School. I live on a dairy farm where we milk 80 head. We have been milking on this farm for 97 years. My great-grandfather was milking with his brother and dad and moved off and purchased our current farm. I work part time as a certified nursing assistant. Part of my everyday job is going out to help milk cows on the family farm and drive tractors during spring and fall seasons.

Dairy Star Sponsors: Lano Equipment

Norwood Young America, MN 952-467-2181

Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? The role I play every day is helping with milking the cows and every other day watching my milk trucker, Jimmy Hoen, haul the milk off to First District Association in Litchfield so it can start its journey to people’s tables.

Parent: Darin Feist Norwood Young America, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I have been involved in the dairy community through my grandparents, Leonard and Rose Hoen. My grandparents own and operate their dairy farm outside of Norwood Young America, milking roughly 70 animals daily. Since I was a clover bud in 4-H, I have leased animals from my grandparents to show at the Carver County Fair. I have also been a dairy princess for three years and am excited to start my fourth year in the position. My future plans are to continue my education at the University of Minnesota to get a degree in graphic design with a minor in marketing.

Greta Feist, 19

Dairy Star Sponsors: Lano Equipment

Norwood Young America, MN

952-467-2181

Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN

952-277-5500

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have been involved in the dairy community my entire life. I am knowledgeable about the inner workings of the industry because I have grown up with hands-on experience. I also have a strong passion for animals and their safety. I am a huge animal lover and that especially includes cows. Finally, I have good communication and leadership skills thanks to my years in 4-H and my previous experiences with leadership roles in student council and National Honor Society. This collection of attributes will help me spread significant dairy messages across my community and the state of Minnesota.

Tell us about yourself. Apart from living on a retired dairy farm, my involvement in the dairy industry includes my employment at Roseview Dairy for the past four years, being a South Dakota dairy ambassador, dairy princess for Brown County, being a part of dairy club as well as on both the executive and digest board, competing on the dairy cattle judging team through South Dakota State University and showing dairy cows. My future plans include working for

Lauren Steffl, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Being on the farm makes me a good dairy princess because I understand and talk about what dairy and farming really mean. Being on a family farm makes dairy so much more meaningful with all of the memories and laughs we share about the farm. All of the hard work and dedication put into the farm makes me have a stronger passion for it.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The importance of having dairy daily, and it is good for your body.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with young families and help them understand the importance of dairy, how it can benefit their daily lives and how it can improve their health.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? First, I would ask them what they are trying to achieve and what things they have tried in the past. What things they did and did not like about it. Then, I would work with them and explain the benefits of what dairy can do for them. I would begin by explaining that full fat and non- and low-fat dairy foods can be a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins B and D.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers work not only to sustain the well-being of their animals but the environment as well. There is no doubt that as time progresses, the effects our actions have on the environment become more consequential. When I talk to consumers who don’t know much about the dairy community, they are often concerned about the impact dairy farms have on the environment. As more people become aware of the environment and climate change, it is important to spread the message that dairy farms work to better the environment. Also, when I have talked to consumers, they have expressed concern for the happiness and safety of the animals as well. It is my job to explain that dairy farmers work to limit their environmental impact while simultaneously providing care for their animals. Farms try to be caretakers of the land just as much as they are caretakers of their animals.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The youth of my community and my state. As time progresses, there seems to be more substitutes for dairy products. As these products become more popular, I want to make sure that children and teenagers understand the countless benefits dairy provides in our everyday lives. I have noticed the popularity dairy product substitutes have gained, and while they can be beneficial for those who cannot consume dairy, it is important to promote dairy products as it offers nutrients and benefits that milk alternatives cannot. So, it is important to inform the younger generation of the benefits dairy products offer and to encourage them to share that knowledge decades into the future.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Through my time as a dairy princess and especially now that I have started my college journey, I encounter friends and classmates who are lactose intolerant or dairy sensitive. Many of them struggle to enjoy dairy while simultaneously prioritizing their health. With that being said, I have done more research into products that are low in lactose. I encourage these friends to reach for cheeses that are naturally low in lactose due to their production processes such as provolone, hard cheddar,

Parents: Tim Steffl and Leah Sandbo Sleepy Eye, Minnesota

Amber Brueggemeier, 18

Carver County continued

Parmesan and Muenster. I also encourage other dairy products that are delicious and low in lactose such as yogurt, sour cream and butter. In doing so, I hope to encourage a healthy relationship with dairy products for those who struggle to enjoy them.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? It is my duty to encourage the consumption of dairy and advocate for the products that provide numerous essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins A and B12, potassium and of course calcium. My role is to spread the messages of the dairy industry in a way that is approachable, professional and enthusiastic. As mentioned before, it is also my duty to encourage those close to me to incorporate dairy into their diets. Whether that means doing extra research about dairy products, finding new recipes to share with others or sharing my own ways I incorporate dairy into my diet. As an advocate for the dairy community, there are endless ways to promote dairy as a healthy lifestyle choice, and it is my role to do so whenever I can.

Todd and Kristen Karels Norwood Young America, Minnesota

Isabela Karels, 17

Dairy Star Sponsors: Lano Equipment

Norwood Young America

952-467-2181

Carver County continued

Parents: Dan and Nancy Tober Norwood Young America, Minnesota

Jessica Tober, 18

Dairy Star Sponsors: Lano Equipment

Norwood Young America 952-467-2181

Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

Carver County continued

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Farmers care for their animals and their land. This is important for consumers to know because farmers make their animals and land their top priority.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with the younger generations, because they are the most impressionable. Today, people focus on having a healthy lifestyle. Informing the younger generations about the benefits of dairy products will have a positive impact on the dairy industry in the future.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would personally recommend dairy products made from cow’s milk. They are nutritious and their nutrients occur in them naturally. Plus, dairy products have numerous health benefits.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I can encourage consumers to make dairy products a part of their everyday diet. I can inform them of the health benefits that dairy products provide, such as maintaining a healthy blood pressure and keeping muscles and bones healthy.

Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Mayer Lutheran High School. I have grown up working on my family farm. We farm about 1,600 acres. We plant corn, soybeans and alfalfa. Some of my jobs on the farm include driving grain cart during harvest, picking rocks in the spring, operating the skid loader, cleaning our grain bins, moving snow in the winter and lots more. I also help on my friend’s farm with milking when they need it. My future plans are to attend South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, to major in animal science. I then hope to pursue a career in being a large animal veterinarian. What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about the dairy industry and love talking about it. I am friendly, easygoing and approachable along with being an outgoing person. I am able to communicate well with others. And when it is all said and done, I love dairy products.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy products are healthy and affordable. With all prices going up, dairy products are still fairly cheap. Along with it being affordable, the heath benefits from consuming dairy products go on and on. Dairy products like milk, butter and yogurt have all of the protein and vitamins you need for a balanced and healthy diet. With all of the other milk alternatives out there, we need to communicate this message.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with the younger demographic and young farmers. I could relate to them and also share my experiences with the dairy industry and how it has changed my life. As being part of the next generation, we need to advocate for the dairy industry and agriculture industry as a whole.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friend the best and healthiest option is real dairy products. Dairy alternatives do not have all of the proteins and vitamins that you need to keep your body healthy. Instead of having to eat all kinds of different things to meet your goal of everything that you need to have a healthy and balanced diet each day, you could do it just by drinking a cup of milk or eating a bowl of yogurt.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I encourage dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle as I eat dairy products every day and tell people about how they are essential to your diet. I also post on social media about dairy and all of the benefits it has. I am passionate about the dairy industry and love talking about it and how it is essential to our everyday lives.

Tell us about yourself. I have grown up with dairy cattle all my life. My grandpa used to raise and milk dairy cattle but gave it up because it was getting to be too much on his body. He is now raising beef cattle with one of his sons. Being involved closely with the dairy industry has changed how I view certain products and lifestyles. I also help take care of my lease cows around fair times which include: milking, feeding and bathing. My future plans are to start my own dog training business that would be for basic obedience and service/therapy. I started my certification in October 2022 and am in progress to receive my certification.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a great public speaker. I love meeting new people and learning all about how they help with the dairy industry. I also put forth a kind persona. I am always a positive person and want to do anything and everything.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers are working day and night to produce vital products everyone needs. Never waste any hard work that farmers create.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The biggest thing I think of is the shortages of workers that are in the industry. I want to help because if there aren’t any workers, there isn’t any produce going out to the consumers. One single farmer can’t run a dairy farm by himself. You need to have more people behind you to run a successful dairy business. Many people may think the job is too dirty and laborious, but once they get to know the meaning of why farmers do this, they will find the drive to help.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would have them do their research first. Always figure out how the mass-produced dairy alternatives are made so that it is the correct decision. Then, you can pick between your favorites and choose the right fit for you.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am not the ordinary cup of milk kind of girl. I consume dairy in different ways. I use whole milk to make coffee and matcha in the mornings. I also eat yogurt with granola in the mornings. Although I don’t drink milk straight, you can consume dairy in different ways that are also good for the body and that add a little more flavor.

Parents: Jeff and Tina Vinkemeier

Norwood Young America, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a freshman at University of Wisconsin-Platteville majoring in animal science. I am hoping to get into the nutrition field, specifically dairy and beef. I live and work on my family’s sixthgeneration dairy farm where we milk about 80 head.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess?

Cadee Vinkemeier, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor:

Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

I have a lot of dairy knowledge and can easily talk to all age groups. I enjoy telling everyone about my family dairy farm and all the nutritious products our cows make. I also enjoy answering kids’ questions about baby calves.

Dodge County

Parents: Eric and Angie Alberts Pine Island, Minnesota

Makenzie Alberts, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: D&H Field Services Osakis, MN

320-760-0848

Tell us about yourself. I grew up as the seventh generation on my family’s dairy farm. I am a freshman at South Dakota State University studying agriculture communications and leadership. I determined my career pathway through my time in FFA. I will be wrapping up my term as the Minnesota FFA state secretary at the end of April and look forward to playing an even more active role on campus this coming year. My family’s dairy, Pine Shelter Alberts Bros., milk over 500 head of registered Holsteins. When I am not at school or FFA events, I work on the farm as a calf feeder, milker and help with crops throughout the summer and into fall. After graduation, I plan to work for an agriculture-based company, specifically in the dairy industry, within the communications sector. I am open to many opportunities and excited to see what doors I find to open as a career.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My passion for agriculture and the dairy industry is truly what gets me out of bed in the morning. With my love, I have adapted many communication skills. I work well with people from all backgrounds, making me prepared for conversations with the public. Additionally, I am authentic. One of the best things to do for the public is to be transparent and honest with them. By sharing my authentic story, background and where my passion developed, we can gain even more trust from the public eye.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Our stewardship of the land. I have had the pleasure of witnessing the agronomic aspect of the dairy industry. With rules and regulations regarding manure management and methane gas emissions, the public often draws concern for their environment. I often refer to dairy farmers as the world’s strongest recyclers. When we inform the public that we provide a nutritional product to grocery stores and allow the environment to utilize and recycle its nutrients, we can build a well-informed audience.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? As a dairy princess, I want to connect with youth of all ages. Similar to how the success of a dairy farm depends on calf care practices, the success of the public eye being knowledgeable on the dairy industry depends on our engagement with youth. Additionally, I would like to connect with dairy

Parents:

farmers. I have always been fascinated with the stories my grandpa shares. I want to find more opportunities to connect with Minnesota farmers. Learning from generations before us is integral to moving toward a better tomorrow in the dairy industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? In high school, I gave a speech on this topic, and as a result, I had many conversations with students struggling to determine which product best suited them. In discussions with others, we must listen to understand others before we share to be understood. When talking to a friend, I would start by understanding what they know. I would then inform them of all options, such as our safe, nutrient-rich dairy products, lactose-free dairy products and plant-based diets. The choice they make is up to them. We can feel secure knowing we heard their concerns and provided them with reliable information regarding their options. As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Eating a balanced diet is challenging to maintain as a college student. When we set an example of what it looks like to fulfill the recommended three servings of dairy daily, we have experience with the nutritional benefits of dairy products. This year, I gave a class presentation on the impact of nutrition on our mental health. At the end of the presentation, I had each classmate write a commitment statement to improve their nutritional diets. My example to the class was that I would continue consuming at least three servings of dairy daily and encourage a friend to join me. I fulfill this commitment with ice cream dates with friends at the SDSU Dairy Bar.

cows and dairy products, which instills a positive image about the industry from a young age and can carry over as they get older.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would suggest looking into dairy products instead of alternatives unless there are health restrictions, like allergies, where that isn’t the best option for them. Dairy products, like milk, are packed with nutrients the body needs like vitamin K, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and many more as well as good sources of protein. Drinking milk has health benefits like promoting bone and dental health, improving bone development, promotes heart health and more. If consumers are worried about the safety and quality of the milk, I would explain the process of how milk goes from the farm to the store and how the milk is at its highest quality once it’s reached the consumers.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would recommend real dairy products to a friend because there is nothing wrong with dairy products. This is a great source of protein, vitamin D and calcium, which are all great things to help you grow and strengthen your bones.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? All dairy foods have some sort of way to help you grow, and all those negative myths the world has been telling consumers about dairy are wrong. We answer questions throughout the week of the county and state fairs to clear up myths people may be asking about.

Tell us about yourself. I am a sophomore at South Dakota State University in the nursing program. I live in town but have been showing dairy cattle since I was 3 years old. My dad works on a farm, and my family and I have started a small herd of our own dairy cattle that is housed at the farm he works at. My future plans are to become a pediatric nurse and stay close to the dairy industry.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess?

Gabriela Espinoza, 20

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Good communication, being respectful, responsible and professional as well as interacting with people of all ages. Being able to interact with people of all ages helps me to advocate and educate to the community about the dairy industry and build positive relationships. Communication is important because you work with many people as a dairy princess including other dairy princesses, coordinators and various businesses to plan events. You’re also interacting with many people while advocating and educating. It is important to be responsible and respectful while being a dairy princess because you come across many questions that may be tough to answer. When answering these questions, it should be a respectful and professional answer in order to properly educate. It’s also important to be responsible, respectful and professional because we are representing dairy princesses and the dairy industry as a whole. We want to portray a positive image for the industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The health benefits of dairy products and dispelling rumors about the industry. Consumers and others read different information that may or may not be false or negative about the health benefits of dairy. This leads to more people leaning toward dairy alternatives and missing out on some of the crucial health benefits of dairy. Another topic many people have heard or read about, especially through social media, is the negative treatment of animals on the farm. Educating and redirecting the rumors is important to create a positive light and impact on the industry.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Children. At a young age, they tend to be more open-minded, eager and excited to learn as well as less likely to have heard rumors about the dairy industry. When doing events that have a younger demographic, I’ve noticed the eagerness to learn about

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? The role we play in encouraging consumption is educating the community on the health benefits of dairy products. Using alternate dairy products has become a trend, and the community is missing out on benefits from dairy products that they may not be getting from other foods. Reinforcing the idea of dairy being a healthy choice and teaching people why it’s good for them can help them make decisions on whether to eat dairy products or alternatives. Without the knowledge of either option, it is hard for consumers to choose. We can also encourage using dairy products while cooking, like adding milk or yogurt to a recipe to start introducing more dairy products into their diets.

Parents: Stan and Amy Sauder Pine Island, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a senior in high school and will be attending the University of WisconsinRiver Falls to pursue a degree in agricultural business this fall. I have grown up on my family’s seventh-generation dairy farm, where we milk around 600 Holsteins. I’m also involved in 4-H and FFA, which have helped me realize my passion for agriculture and agriculture communications and education.

Ellie Sauder, 18

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507-937-3620

Parents: Brian and Amanda Rinehart Kasson, Minnesota

Alita Rinehart, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Carriage House Animal Hospital Kasson, MN 507-634-6781

Tell us about yourself. I’m a senior at Kasson Mantorville, where I do the school yearbook and am on the dance team. This year was my final season for dance, and I am now one of the alumni members and hopefully their photographer next year. I also have been doing photography for six years. I am in 4-H and FFA. I have been doing these two for seven years. I work on the Naatz dairy farm near Mantorville, Minnesota, which is owned my Willie and Karen Naatz. I’ve been working there for about six years. On their farm, there are 250 cows. My responsibility is to make sure the proper cleaning and health of the animals is being done correctly. This helps me understand how the animals should be cared for and what that all entails.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am able to communicate with all ages and make the conversation enjoyable. This helps me understand others’ thoughts and feelings and to see other perspectives of the world. I am especially good with children of all ages.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? That 80% of the youth ages 9-13 fall short to meet the recommendations for getting enough dairy in their diet. This is resulting in negative health consequences. This tells me that more work is definitely needed to encourage dairy consumption. It is important to tell consumers that not having the proper amount of dairy products in your daily food intake can cause major health issues.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The youth because that is the greatest age to start with. I choose them because they are still learning, and it is better to start with the younger ages and teach them what dairy is all about before they get older.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? It is important for consumers to know where their food comes from and how it’s produced, and I want to be able to share true stories of dairy farmers with consumers. My past leadership experiences in 4-H and FFA have given me tools to use when talking about agriculture and representing the dairy industry. Growing up on a dairy farm has given me an understanding of the dairy industry that I can share with others. I am excited to put my communication skills to use while presenting to classrooms as well as communicating through social media platforms.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Misinformation is everywhere, especially online, and it is my job to help inform consumers that milk is safe, nutritious and is produced humanely. Using dairy products supports family farms like my own and supports local communities. Even as milk alternatives are on the rise, dairy isn’t going anywhere.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I hope to connect with youth during my time as a dairy princess. Through 4-H, I have visited classrooms and talked about agriculture, and I hope to do the same as a dairy princess. Younger kids are always fun to talk to and are excited to learn about the world, and that provides a great space to talk about agriculture and the dairy industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Dairy is the most nutritious, inexpensive and freshest option in the dairy case. Dairy has 13 essential nutrients and 8 grams of protein and goes from farm to store in 48 hours. These are all things that only dairy can provide and are a few reasons that dairy is the best option in the dairy case. Buying dairy products also supports the local economy including families in your own community. Farmers take exceptional care of their livestock and strive to keep their cows comfortable, safe and happy, which in turn creates a safe and nutritious product.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I represent the dairy industry. My role is to communicate with consumers, share the benefits of dairy and promote a positive image of agriculture and the dairy industry. Some ways I can do this include visiting classrooms to talk about dairy, working in the malt stand at my county fair and being at promotional events with the other Dodge County dairy princesses.

Parents: Ramon and MaryBeth Espinoza Kasson, Minnesota

Douglas County

Tell us about yourself. I have been involved in 4-H, FFA, track and crosscountry. My family’s farm has registered Holsteins. We have about 90 cows and 100 heifers. I take care of the calves and milk occasionally. I will be attending Ridgewater College for veterinary technology and agriculture science and technology.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess?

Hailey Klimek, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

I know a lot about dairy farming from my first-hand experiences I’ve had growing up on my family’s farm. I am knowledgeable about dairy and enjoy connecting with others.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers work very hard to produce a nutritious, high-quality and safe product.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with kids to teach them about dairy products and why they are good for you. I would also like to connect with parents who are buying for young children to inform them that dairy products are nutritious and the least-processed natural form of milk.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend to choose whole milk because its much creamier comparing it to 1% or skim milk. Whole milk is still about 96% fat free, or 4% milk fat. That’s still low fat. As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am able to advocate for dairy products to promote how they are nutritious and are a healthy choice for everyone. I usually have a few days to give out dairy product samples in grocery stores.

Fillmore County

Parents: Kevin and Kelly Biel Harmony, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. My parents own a dairy farm outside of town. Currently, I am attending Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, where I am doing a pre-law program and majoring in business marketing, soon to hopefully be ag business.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My parents and professors can tell you that I am one stubborn gal when it comes to standing for something I believe in. I also am a quick learner and adaptor. I am a good public speaker and a people person. For the most part, I can get along with anyone.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with the middle-aged to the elderly demographic. As kids, we get the carton of milk or some sort of dairy product with our school lunches and the same into our early to late teens. As a college student, I see that most people on campus have some sort of dairy product if they are able. When people are the most independent, they tend to forget about dairy and vegetables sometimes, which is why I’d like to connect with them.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I’d say go with whatever they are comfortable with. I understand there are some people who don’t like dairy products in general, and that’s going to be inevitable. If they ask for my opinion, I will recommend something dairy. Cherry Garcia ice cream holds a special spot in my heart. As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Dairy plays a strong part in muscle, skin and bone development. I 100% agree that some dairy alternatives can be a great replacement for those who are unable to drink milk or consume lactose. I will say that nothing can beat the real deal to its full extent.

Parents: Cory Mulhern and Kathy Mulhern Fountain, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Chatfield High school. The farm I live and work on is Mulhern Dairy. It has been running since 1976. The farm is owned by my great-grandpa and grandma, my great-uncle and my father. We milk about 850 cows and have about 2,000 dairy cattle. I am attending South Dakota State University. I will be getting my associate degree while deciding what to major in.

Kristina Biel, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Harmony & Cresco

Vet Clinic Harmony, MN 507-886-6321

harmonycrescovets.com

Canton Heating & Cooling LLC

Canton, MN 507-743-8242

What do you think is one of the most essential dairy messages to share with consumers? Those trends happen in every industry, and right now, it’s targeting milk. What trends do is try to make the alternative look bad with buzzwords so they can look better. Milk is good. I mean look at me; I try to have at least two full glasses of milk a day, and I hold my own in an arm wrestle.

Emma Mulhern, 18

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Travis Ristau

Preston, MN

507-273-2220

Northern Valley Livestock Services

Chatfield, MN dairymed.com 507-534-4356

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have been raised doing everything around the farm. I have learned throughout the years that the dairy industry, and agriculture in general, is so important to our economy. I also enjoy talking to new people about topics I am interested in like the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? An important message I would like to share with consumers is that dairy products are not only delicious but have so much nutrition that are good for building strong bones and helps support your immune and digestive systems.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Young adults and children. I want to try and reach everyone, but I believe that reaching the young generation is very important. A huge thing in society right now is health and always consuming the correct healthy supplements. At school, I always hear the guys and girls talking about the supplements they are taking to become stronger, bigger, skinnier and even just healthier. I am a strong believer that milk and other dairy products are very important for all of those to happen.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? With so many options in the dairy industry, including alternative dairy products, I would tell a friend to choose chocolate milk. Chocolate milk tastes so good. Chocolate milk even has electrolytes to help hydration and is great for helping your body recover after workouts and exercise.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I will promote the dairy industry and products and help others see all the great things about it.

Goodhue County

Parents: Brian and Tiffany Clemenson Zumbrota, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself.

I have been involved in 4-H for 10 years and FFA for five years. I have held the office position of president, vice president and secretary in both my 4-H club and FFA chapter. I have also served as an assistant officer on the Region VIII officer team.

Natalie Clemenson, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

I participate in dairy judging and have competed at the national level. I am also a member of the dairy quiz bowl team for Goodhue County. I am a member of the National Honor Society, concert, marching and pep bands, choir and trapshooting team. I live and work on my family’s dairy farm. We milk around 80 cows which are primarily Holstein. Our farm is run by my grandparents and parents. This fall, I am planning to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to pursue a degree in animal science.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess public speaking and people skills. I have served as an officer in both FFA and 4-H which has taught me how to be confident when public speaking. I also have the ability to change my style of communication to best fit the environment of the audience. I have a passion for the dairy community. I am passionate about helping the community and farmers and am dedicated to all the things I am involved in. I am a selfless leader and care for those around me. I will work throughout my year to serve dairy farmers and my community.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The truth behind dairy. This includes information about sustainability practices that are being used, measures that farmers take to ensure cow comfort and the nutritional benefits dairy provides. By correcting some of the myths that are currently going around about dairy, the relationship between producers and consumers could be improved.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Teenagers and young adults. This age group is going to be our next generation. It is important to make connections with them and share the dairy story. I plan to explain why the dairy community is important, the nutritional benefits of dairy and correct misinformation that has been spread. One way to reach this demographic is by using social media. Social media has become a part of our everyday life and is used by a large majority of young people.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friend to choose a dairy option that will support our local dairy farm families. I would explain the nutritional value and benefits of dairy products and the differences between dairy and dairy alternatives. I would share the process of farm to fork with my friend. I have personal experience with the steps of taking milk from the farm to the store. If the friend had concerns about a lactose intolerance or other need, I would show them the lactose-free dairy options. It is important to share personal experiences and make a connection with consumers to show how important dairy is to our local farm families.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I will serve as an advocate for the dairy community. To encourage the consumption of dairy products as a part of a healthy lifestyle, I will share the nutritional benefits of dairy with those I meet and on our social media. Dairy contains 13 essential nutrients and can fulfill many dietary requirements. I will also act as a role model by consuming dairy myself whether it is during a social media takeover, walking a parade or at a breakfast on a farm.

Parents: Alan and Jessica Klimek Alexandria, Minnesota

Parents: Robert Eggenberger and Erica Cordes Red Wing, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a freshman at South Dakota State University where I major in ag business and Spanish and minor in accounting, dairy industry and ranch management. I am active in the SDSU dairy club and Sigma Alpha, a professional agricultural sorority.

continue to work with my parents farming and eventually find an apprenticeship in the trades.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Responsibility, love and compassion, passion for the dairy community, community service and work ethic.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Farmers are struggling with high prices in almost everything. We need the support of our communities to keep feeding America. The number of farmers is constantly decreasing, and the suicide rate of farmers is on the rise.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I play a role in educating others, who have been misled with information, in a kind way. I will inform consumers about all the benefits of dairy products and anything else they have questions about.

Parents: Tony and Maizie Scheffler Zumbrota, Minnesota

Emma Eggenberger, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

I work at Betcher Dairy in Goodhue, Minnesota, where I move heifers, milk cows, fix fences and do anything else that needs to be done on the farm. The Betchers have about 125 in their milking herd. This July, I will be going to Valencia, Spain, to work at Granja Rinya which has approximately 400 milking cows and 200 sheep, and all of the milk produced goes directly into cheese making. I hope to get a job that will allow me to help farmers make smart financial decisions.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My passion for the dairy industry makes me a good dairy princess because it is why I want to be in this position, and it drives me to be a representative for the dairy industry. Listening and learning are also some qualities that make me a good representative. When talking with others, it’s important to listen and understand where they are coming from and why they think the way they do so that we can communicate the message of the dairy industry effectively. As a young person in the industry, I don’t know everything, but I want to learn so I can share information with consumers and producers and make a stronger community.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Even though dairy farmers get a lot of backlashes, they are passionate about dairy. They get out of bed and continue to produce dairy products every day.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with people who are adolescents or young adults because they are starting to think for themselves and have more independence from their parents. It’s important to connect with them because they are the next generation of consumers, and they are old enough to rationalize but young enough that they aren’t completely set in their ways.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friend to choose the one that will benefit them the most. Dairy alternatives don’t compare nutrition-wise to milk from a cow, and I would recommend my friend try A2 milk or lactose-free milk before turning to the alternatives. A2 and lactose-free milk provide the same nutrients as other milk from cows but are more easily digested.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is to advocate the benefits of consuming dairy as a part of a healthy lifestyle. Many consumers see milk as good for bones because of the calcium; however, fewer consumers realize that milk can rehydrate the body better than water. There is a misconception that drinking whole milk can make a person obese; however, if you add whole milk to an active, healthy lifestyle, it can help a person lose weight. As an advocate, I love to spread the truth about the benefits of dairy products to consumers.

Parents: Shane and Casey Holst Zumbrota, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I grew up on my family’s dairy farm outside of Goodhue and Zumbrota. All of my best childhood memories are of the experiences I’ve had on the farm. I started helping with chores at 8 when my parents took over the farm is 2013. Growing up in this environment really shaped me into a responsible and caring person, and I wouldn’t ask to have grown up any other way. After graduation, I plan to

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Young adults and children because they are the future of our country, and a strong country is one that has educated people. When they are the main consumer group, it’s important for them to know the nutritional benefits and sustainability of dairy.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell them to choose dairy products because dairy is rich and dense in many essential nutrients that our bodies need. Our bodies need over 30 nutrients in order to be functional. Dairy has 13 of those nutrients, making it a wonderful diet option that is also affordable. Usually, dairy alternatives have many additives and can be highly processed. Their nutritional value can’t compare to the nutritional value of dairy.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is to guide misinformed and uninformed people about the many benefits that dairy has on our bodies, its affordability and sustainability. I can answer people’s questions and concerns to the best of my ability using my own personal experiences in the dairy community.

Parents: Mike Chamberlain and Amy Bearbower Zumbrota, Minnesota

Caryn Miklas, 17

Evelyn Scheffler, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Story Sales & Service Faribault, MN

800-491-3724

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Kenyon-Wanamingo High School. I am active in 4-H, FFA, National Honor Society, FCCLA, band, track and Minnesota Junior Holstein. I work on my family’s 150-cow dairy farm where we milk mostly Holsteins and a few Jerseys. I am the calf manager. In addition to raising the calves, I help with milking, assist with the herd health program, help with record keeping and also help with fieldwork. I plan to attend South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, where I will major in dairy production with a minor in agricultural communications.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about sharing the story of agriculture and dairy with others. I like talking with people and answering questions. I enjoy presenting educational materials about agriculture to others.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy is nutritious. Dairy contains 13 essential nutrients that are important for overall body function. Dairy is for everyone, and there are so many options to choose from including many convenient grab-and-go options.

Kelsey Holst, 17

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Zumbrota Mazeppa High School, and plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to major in dairy science. I am active in FFA and 4-H, being involved in dairy judging, dairy knowledge bowl and milk quality judging. I have been showing cattle for 10 years. I have been working on my grandparents’ farm milking cows for about six years. Before that, I helped on our home farm milking the cows and feeding calves, but we sold our cows in 2015. We raise dairy steers and show heifers and just about anything else you could imagine.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with all age groups but especially teens and children. Teens and children are the future. If we can educate them on the importance of dairy in their diet at a young age, they will be more likely to continue consuming dairy products as they get older.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am good at public speaking, being able to be confident about what I talk about and be convincing about it. I have gained a lot of knowledge about the dairy community throughout the years and would love to share my knowledge with others.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? We take the best care of cows possible in an environmentally friendly way. We spend all day, every day caring for them, whether that be milking, cleaning pens, giving fresh bedding or even giving extra love and scratches. There are new practices coming out so we can help keep the environment safe and healthy.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I hope to reach a younger demographic. I grew up with a lot of young siblings and just love being around kids. I think it’s important to teach at a young age, and little kids look up to us. Being around younger kids is just so much fun, and it will leave an impact on them.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I enjoy all dairy products across the board, but I would have to go with milk for this one. Milk is packed with 13 essential nutrients that helps our overall health in many ways and keeps our bones and teeth nice and strong. These nutrients help our gut health, muscle growth and much more.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would always encourage my friends to choose real dairy products. As far as which specific products, I would encourage them to choose whatever looks and sounds good to them. I would tell them my favorites, which are Greek yogurt, string cheese and chocolate milk.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I will promote dairy consumption in every situation whether it be grabbing a cup of coffee with real dairy in it, having a healthy snack or sitting down to eat a nutritious meal with their family. Dairy is healthy, versatile, convenient and delicious.

Houston County

Parents: Scott and Ellen Bulman Caledonia, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I was raised on a beef farm by two former dairy farmers where I received a classical Christian education via online schooling. On top of working around the home farm, I grew up doing dance and performing with local high school theater productions. I started working for a neighboring dairy farm at 15 where I can still be found nearly every morning. We milk predominantly Holsteins but also a few Brown Swiss. In addition to milking, I help feed and care for the calves. At the moment, I plan to continue working in

Chloe Jane Bulman, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com Caledonia Haulers

MN

Houston County continued the agriculture industry as well as being involved in dance education.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a people person. I love talking with people, learning from and educating people, and working with kids. I also value serving the community around me, both the dairy community and the Houston County community. On top of that, I value working hard and love knowing that I am providing for people.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy is for our local communities. Most dairy farms in the United States are family owned and are dedicated to serving the people around them.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with young athletes. Having grown up doing dance and now being a dance teacher, I have a great passion and interest for nutrition, particularly in kids. Educating young athletes on the nutritional benefits of dairy products, particularly how dairy aids in recovery and performance, would be of great benefit to their health.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Compared to dairy alternatives, cow’s milk has 13 essential nutrients we need to consume every day, including calcium, protein, potassium, magnesium and zinc. It has long-lasting health benefits and is sustainably and locally produced. Cultured dairy products have even more benefits. Plus, even people with lactose sensitivity can enjoy dairy products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a representative of the dairy industry, I will educate the local community about the benefits of dairy for our health and also for environmental sustainability. On top of dairy providing necessary nutrients for day-to-day living, farmers continually work to be more sustainable and keep their animals comfortable, healthy and happy.

Parents: Fred Ideker and Jean Treondle Caledonia, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Caledonia High School. I have been working at John and Karyl Dierson’s since I was a freshman. I milk cows and feed calves. In the past, I showed cows for them at the Houston County Fair. With the interest and love for the agriculture industry, I will be continuing my education at North Iowa Area Community College in the fall for agriculture business.

Emily Ideker ,

Dairy Star Sponsors: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Caledonia

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My communication skills, energetic personality and enthusiasm for the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy has been proven to be the most natural, healthy way to get the calcium and vitamins we need for strong bones, teeth and overall good health. We live in a time when there is so much pressure to reduce dairy herds, to reduce methane emissions and to go vegan. So many products are being pushed to our young people via the media to buy chemically enhanced water because it’s “better for them.”

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Women are the decision makers of the household. They are typically the ones who purchase the food consumed on a daily basis and are more likely to choose something that is natural and healthier for their family. Next would be children and young adults, because they are the biggest consumers of those products. We should teach them that dairy is better for them and less expensive than other drinks. If they start consuming more dairy as kids, they will most likely carry that with them into adulthood and pass that down to their kids.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Have that bottle of chocolate milk instead of that candy bar. It will give you the sweet chocolate taste you’re craving, vitamins to help boost your body naturally and more energy than the sugar rush of candy.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As dairy princess, it is important to be promoting dairy products, especially when I am in public. I set a good example by choosing a dairy product to drink instead of soda or chemically enhanced water when I’m around children, because they emulate what they see. Little girls who look up to the princesses will want to copy what we do. Also, to talk about the dairy industry to others and how important it is to not only our health but also our economy.

Parents: Daniel and Sheila Schroeder Caledonia, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Caledonia High School and am involved in many extracurricular activities, including Business Professionals of America, 4-H and robotics. I have lived on my family’s dairy farm my whole life where we milk 140 Holsteins. I enjoy being outside playing golf and acting in musical productions. I plan to attend college to major in accounting and work for an agricultural-related business.

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Caledonia Haulers Caledonia, MN

800-325-4728

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am an outgoing person and a good listener. I love hearing other farmers’ stories and understanding consumers’ concerns. Through many of my activities, I have learned how to talk with someone and connect with them on a personal level.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy products are nutrient-rich, which is beneficial in replenishing your body after physical activity. With the large variety of dairy products, there is always something for everyone.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with the younger generation. Because I am part of it, I know most of the information we receive comes from an online source, and there are many opinions included within the information. Going directly to the students would give them a more personal understanding of the dairy community.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friend about the nutritional benefits milk provides that milk alternatives cannot. I would also let them know that dairy alternatives are considered highly processed compared to milk, which can go from the farm to the store in about 48 hours.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I have stepped into a huge role in encouraging dairy consumption. I became a role model to many people and can show them all of the benefits that dairy can bring to their everyday lives.

Isanti County

Parents: Scott and Kassandra Derheim Braham, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I have always enjoyed being around animals, breeding and raising for meat production. We raise both beef and dairy cattle along with several other types of animals. My dad used to work on a dairy farm in Rush City, Minnesota. I plan on becoming a preschool teacher and having my own little farm one day.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I enjoy talking to people and teaching people about farms and animals, which they may not have known about before. I have spent many hours volunteering at multiple facilities. I spent a part of last summer working at the CHS Miracle of Birth Center with the Haubenschild dairy cattle. I am hard working and determined to do the best that I can and support those who are willing to try new things. I am also going to enjoy this opportunity to meet new people and take away new ideas and learn things along the way.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The animals that are raised are loved and taken care of by their owners. To have a good herd that functions well, the animals must be taken care of and cared for. It is better for the farmers to treat their animals the best possible way for the most amount of milk production and meat production because stress makes both of those qualities decline.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The average age for a farmer is 57 years old in the United States. Being a farmer is hard; farmers have to give up a lot of free time to work with the animals. It is not that young people don’t want to farm, but the affordability of land to get a farm started is difficult.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? They should choose whole milk. Whole milk has more nutrients in the milk than 2% or dairy alternatives. Whole milk contains a higher amount of saturated fats, which is a good thing, to raise calcium and potassium levels.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I have the unique opportunity to connect youth and adults to what the dairy industry is. I can recommend everyone consume an average of three servings of dairy daily. I get to help teach people about the differences in dairy products and the range of products.

Kandiyohi County

Parents: Matthew and Brenda Thompson Kerkhoven, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I work at Rod and Naomi Lindquist’s dairy farm outside of Pennock, Minnesota. My job is to feed the calves there, and I love every moment of it. It is nice being back on a dairy farm, especially after my grandparents sold theirs in the fall of 2019. I am planning to attend Bethel University in the Twin Cities and major in chemistry. After college, I plan to pursue a career in medicine or law.

Grace Thompson, 17

Dairy Star Sponsor: D&D Ag Supply & Construction Pennock, MN

320-599-4466

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a determined, driven, hardworking, understanding and compassionate young woman who enjoys meeting new people and has a passion for promoting the dairy industry.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The products consumers consume every day don’t just come from the store. These dairy products come from farms where hard working farmers and their employees toil day after day to put food on the tables of others. Support dairy farmers in any way possible. In addition, small family-owned dairy farms are super important.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with children because not only are they naturally curious and love to learn, but it is important they know where their food comes from early on. It helps build appreciation for farmers and the work they do as well as satisfy any curiosity they may have about the dairy industry. When I was a kid, I always found it interesting to see the sources of the food I ate on a daily basis.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would start off by saying they should not consume anything they

18

Miranda Schroeder, 18

Jaden Carey, 17

continued are intolerant to because that can cause many issues. There are plenty of alternatives available, like lactosefree milk, ice cream, soy milk and almond milk, etc. I would possibly list some health benefits of consuming dairy products. Dairy is an excellent source of many vitamins and nutrients especially related to bone health. It aids in recovery after a workout, specifically chocolate milk. Finally, I would encourage them in what is best for their health.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I encourage dairy consumption as a part of a healthy lifestyle by talking to people about the benefits of dairy, serving chocolate milk after races and by enacting that in my own life as well.

Le Sueur-Scott counties

Parents: Andy and Jessie Filter

Montgomery, Minnesota

Aubrey Filter, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Compeer Financial 507-387-4174 compeer.com

Tell us about yourself. I did not grow up on a dairy farm but have been showing dairy cattle for years and have participated in both dairy bowl and dairy judging through 4-H. We lease our cattle from Mike and Darcy Schlosser in Le Center, Minnesota. My dad worked for them for years, and I work there when they need a hand with calf chores. Every May, we bring the calves and heifers we will show to our farm, and I am in charge of feeding and caring for them all summer long. I am studying criminal justice at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about the dairy industry and love being able to share the importance of dairy with others. I love being able to interact with people who are also passionate about the dairy industry and answering questions for people who are curious about it.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy products are a healthy and sustainable food source as well as a great source of nutrients for your body. Dairy products are a great source of vitamin D and calcium and taste delicious.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I love seeing all of the little kids who get excited when we hand them cheese sticks or cow stickers. I also love talking with the people who are involved in the dairy industry, trading farm stories and learning new things from each other. The most important people to connect with are the people who don’t know much about the dairy industry, and the people who maybe have never seen a farm aside from pictures online. The connection between the farmers and the consumers is important but is often left out. As a dairy princess, I have the opportunity to connect that gap between the farmers and the consumers.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? There are many good dairy options at the grocery store. It’s great to have so many options to choose from. There are many uses for dairy products from cheese for sandwiches to using yogurt or milk for baking. You can never go wrong with cheese or milk. Both are delicious, full of important nutrients and have so many uses in the kitchen.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am an ambassador for the dairy industry. Social media is a big part of getting the word out about everything dairy. I love sharing recipes with my friends, and there are always great ways to use dairy online. During dairy month, we go out to businesses and hand out ice cream. I enjoy going to parades and giving out cheese sticks to kids of all ages. We are promoting the dairy industry in a positive way. By going to events, we are able to interact with consumers and answer questions they may have about anything dairy and encourage them to add dairy to their diets to help with a healthy lifestyle.

Le

Parents: Gary and Lori Steinhagen Belle Plaine, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. On our farm of 200, we milk 90 cows, raise youngstock and, for the second year, 10 steers. I enjoy milking cows and bedding the youngstock. I finished my second year at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall. I am majoring in exercise science to be a pediatric occupational therapist.

Greta Steinhagen, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: AMPI www.ampi.com dinnerbellcreamery.coop

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about the industry along with having leadership skills, knowledge and experience in the industry. I have an outgoing, bubbly personality too.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy is a changing operation. With new technology, farmers are more equipped to raise more youngstock for the future. The rise of technology not only benefits the farmers but the consumers. This allows the farms to ensure their cows are healthy and that the consumers are consuming most of their dairy products.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with athletes. There are so many benefits to having a dairy product after a race or doing any physical movement. Having a dairy product as a snack after an activity will help with rehydration because they are a great source of electrolytes.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Cream cheese is a popular spread and widely used ingredient. Most people use it for bagels or in cooking, but some alternatives for this are also important for those who are lactose intolerant. Using homemade cream cheese is one way to ensure you are getting the healthiest option. This option benefits consumers. It allows them to have control of the ingredients they are adding in.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role as a dairy princess is to encourage consumers that dairy is a big part of a healthy diet. Drinking milk contains calcium, which is good for bone growth in small children. Dairy also is high in potassium which helps to lower blood pressure.

Parents: Gary and Lori Steinhagen

Belle Plaine, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. We have about 200 dairy cows and milk about 90 cows. My chores include milking the cows at night, feeding milk to the calves and bedding them with cornstalks, and feeding the goats. I plan to go to college to major in agribusiness to become a dairy farmer.

Martha Steinhagen, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: AMPI www.ampi.com dinnerbellcreamery.coop

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? One of the best qualities a dairy princess can possess is being passionate about the dairy industry and farmer. They need to be willing to work to promote the various products to new customers.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers do everything in their power to ensure you have the dairy products available any time. Dairy farmers love their animals and take care of them so they are always comfortable and relaxed.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Kids and teenagers. They are the

most influenced and are always changing. Also, they are the most active and need the fuel dairy provides.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friend to choose the milk that contains vitamins A and D, and also calcium. Choosing the best milk for their diet is an important part of their day, and they should choose the best milk for them.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I am able to influence and connect with the younger generation of kids. I am able to show the benefits of dairy products in a similar way to their lifestyle.

Lincoln County

Parents: David and Linda Grooters Verdi, Minnesota

EllaMae Grooters, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Equipment

Pipestone, MN

507-825-3271

Tell us about yourself. I am majoring in livestock production and management at Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, South Dakota. I live on the family farm north of Pipestone, Minnesota, where we used to milk around 60 Holsteins. Now my dad is working at Prairie Land Farms in Tyler, Minnesota, as the herdsman. I am also on an eight-week internship there where they milk around 250 Holsteins. I like painting, drawing, reading, and participating in 4-H and dairy judging. I was on the Elkton FFA dairy evaluation team where we placed fourth at the state convention during my senior and freshman years of high school. I was in the top 15 all the years I competed. I also served as president of my FFA chapter as well as my 4-H club. I plan on graduating next spring with an Associate of Applied Science degree and pursuing my dream of working with animals.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The respect I have for not only dairy farmers but agriculture as a whole. I have the utmost respect for farmers as they spend hours of their blood, sweat and tears pouring into the things they love, which is inspiring in itself. They are one of the most important people to have on this earth. Without them, we wouldn’t survive. I also possess loyalty and determination. I love dairy cattle. I have either been working in a dairy or studying them my entire life, and I plan on staying loyal to the dairy industry. I also have the determination to learn as much as I can about agriculture whether that be in college or on the job.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Social media is not always right. I am active on social media and come across people who have no experience in any type of agriculture who spread false information about the dairy industry. There are plenty of dairy farmers who would love to teach and show people what we are actually about, and I am one of those people. As time goes on, we get fewer family-owned dairy farms. Kids are not going to know where they get their food from. If you question something that looks good or bad, don’t be afraid to reach out to any local farmer and get their take on it.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with the younger kids, whether in elementary or junior high. I want to teach them about the dairy industry at an early age so that when they see or hear misguiding information about the dairy industry, they know that is wrong.

If we start with the younger kids, then the spreading of false statements will hopefully decrease or fewer people will listen.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? When it comes to nutrition, cow milk is undeniably the superior choice. It has an impressive profile of nearly all essential minerals, amino acids and vitamins in just 1 quart. It is an excellent source of protein and calcium. Individuals who are lactose intolerant may choose to opt for lactose-free milk. It has the same nutrition without the lactose.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role in encouraging dairy consumption is to show off the cows that produce it. When myself or my siblings take a lactating cow to the fair, we would always have a crowd of people show up and watch as we milked. To try and help them understand that this cow is comfortable and healthy, they hopefully realize that consuming dairy is a healthy thing to do too. I also try to encourage kids at school to drink milk or consume any other dairy such as yogurt, cheese and ice cream.

Lyon County

Parents: Greg and Becky Moorse Minneota, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I was raised on my family’s dairy farm. We raise Holsteins, Jerseys, Brown Swiss and crossbred dairy cattle. Besides the cattle, we also raise registered dairy goats. I am a freshman studying agriculture education with a minor in dairy industry. I am on track to graduate in May 2026. I plan to teach high school agriculture education.

Brooke Moorse, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor:

Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Equipment

Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess kindness, confidence and integrity. We all know that kindness can go a long way especially in the agriculture industry. When kindness is shown, relationships can develop with neighbors, communities and friends. Showing confidence helps me achieve my goals. Being confident in the knowledge I have of the industry has helped me get to the position I have today. I have been able to show integrity through my year as a dairy princess through events on the farm and within the community.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Everything’s better with dairy. Everyday life can be enhanced with a little bit of dairy. From the meals you make, to the ice cream parlor down the street and to the farms in the countryside with the cows in the pasture, the impact of dairy can be felt everywhere you look. Each of these places can enhance our love for the industry through the taste, feel and look. These places represent a piece of the industry in their own right. The meal and dessert represent the dairy industry through manufacturing and the nutrients we are able to gain. The farmers are the stewards of the land and animals, doing the background work to supply us with milk used to create the products we have come to love.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Elementary students are some of the most open-minded people I have met and are eager to learn. When reading at the library this past summer, I was able to read books and show my passion for the industry. If we are given the chance to teach them the facts about the industry at younger ages, there is no doubt we will have success for the generations to come.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? There is no dairy product that is better or worse for you as these products are all full of nutrients such as calcium, proteins and vitamins. Each product in the case supplies you with health benefits to fulfill your dietary needs. Though I am lactose intolerant, each product finds a way to adapt so those who are lactose intolerant can enjoy. I would first point them to the ice cream, as that is my favorite product. But, I would also point them in the direction of the cheese. Cheese is a versatile product that can be used in different types of dishes. Another good thing about cheese is it can also be a healthy snack used with crackers or a stand-alone such as string cheese. Most cheeses are lactose free too, which means there is no harm with indulging in your favorite.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am able to be an ambassador for the industry through building the bridge between farmer and consumer. Within my role as a dairy princess, I like to refer to the healthy eating pyramid. The pyramid shows the levels of food products and how much should be in your diet. The pyramid is balanced to include sugars,

starches, fruits and vegetables, proteins and dairy products. When speaking on behalf of the pyramid, I like to give out cheese sticks so those I am talking to are able to eat part of their daily dairy intake.

Martin County

Parents: Bob and Lori Calkins

East Chain, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a junior at Minnesota State University-Mankato pursuing a special education degree. I grew up living and working on my family’s fifth-generation dairy farm where we milk 250 Holsteins. I enjoy doing calf chores, cutting hay and helping kids with their dairy projects. When I was in 4-H, I loved showing my cows at both county and state fair; these places were also great opportunities to share about the dairy industry.

Abigayle Calkins, 21

Dairy Star Sponsor: Martin County Dairy Association

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate, outgoing and can easily connect with people. I love sharing my dairy experiences and knowledge by having conversations with people of all ages. College has been another way for me to share about the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? It is important to remember that dairy products play a huge role in diet, health and nutrition. Adding dairy into your daily diet is an easy way to get key nutrients. Dairy products are tested, safe and fresh.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I primarily want to connect with kids. It is important for them to know that dairy products are an easy way to get a lot of nutrients that are necessary for growth. I want to share with them how dairy farms function and how the animals are cared for.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would recommend real milk versus an alternative to my friend because it is less processed, and it contains 13 essential nutrients that makes healthy eating easy. Dairy is a safe and healthy food choice. There are even new dairy products that are great for before exercising, during and after.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am a visible person who shows the public there are people who work hard to produce and bring dairy products from farm to shelf. It is ultimately the consumer’s decision to purchase dairy products; I am able to help with marketing dairy products at events and encourage people to choose dairy.

Parents: Mark and Joanna Lange Sherburn, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a proud fourth-generation dairy farmer. I am taking college classes online while farming full time. My dad, uncles and I operate our family farm where we milk about 80 cows. We also raise corn, soybeans, oats and hay. I plan on transferring to a university to study animal science.

Gabriella Lange, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: Martin County Dairy Association

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am an outgoing, natural leader. The knowledge I have about dairy gives me confidence that I am sharing the facts and portraying the industry accurately as I share my story. Honesty, professionalism and being considerate to others are key qualities that I uphold. By working on my family’s farm, I have learned the importance of hard work which will carry me to succeed in whatever endeavors I pursue.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? I want to share the story of a dairy farmer. As the number of farms continues to decrease, fewer people have a connection to agriculture and the dairy industry. I am excited to share my day-to-day life as a dairy farmer and demonstrate how our operation works. I can show how farmers work with integrity and strive to do what is best for the cattle we are caring for.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I am eager to connect with all ages and groups of people. However, I am most excited to network with young children and their families. A majority of the grocery list is dictated by kids. If I give children a positive experience with our products, their families are more likely to support our industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? We are bombarded with different versions of imitation dairy products. With all these options, making a healthy choice can feel overwhelming. It is important to remember dairy products are whole, naturally occurring foods. I side with tradition, and nothing can beat the rich creamy flavor of a delicious bowl of real ice cream on a hot summer day.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I will promote dairy products as one of the most widely available, safest sources of quality nutrition in the U.S. As a farmer, I am an example that we are working hard to make sure we are producing healthful food for our community and future generations by producing locally, implementing new technology and reducing waste.

Parents: Mark and Joanna Lange Sherburn, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. My dad and uncles own and operate a small dairy farm outside of Sherburn, Minnesota. I grew up on the farm and have been involved with 4-H and FFA since a young age. I show our livestock at the fair and participate in the dairy evaluation career development event. I am planning to attend the Carlson School of Management, University of Minnesota, this fall. I will be pursuing a business major.

Bella Lange, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Martin County Dairy Association

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am an approachable, easy person to talk to. I get along with young kids, the elderly and everyone in between. I have the effective communication skills necessary for a great dairy princess.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? I want to share a message on the importance of supporting local dairy farms whether that be by purchasing dairy products at the grocery store, straight from local creameries or just thanking a farmer.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with the youth and adults. Young kids will look up to me as a role model, and I want to teach them the importance of the dairy industry. I am also up for conversation with the older generations. It is never too late to learn more and stay educated about your diet and lifestyle.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I’d inform them that dairy products can be a great source of protein, calcium and essential vitamins and nutrients.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, it is important to connect to the public and inform them of a healthy lifestyle including dairy. I will be advocating for the industry and leading by example with a healthy lifestyle.

McLeod County

Parents: Ted and Bobbi Filk Hutchinson, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. Throughout my high school career, I have been active in FFA serving on the officer team and participating in competitions. I am also involved in softball.

Ella Filk, 17

milking and get them ready the next milking. When I’m not working or at the farm, I enjoy playing softball and hanging out with my family and friends.

on ag policy.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Communication skills and outgoing personality. I enjoy educating consumers about the dairy industry and meeting new people.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Outside of school, I am involved in 4-H where I show my family’s cattle. I am working and living on my family’s owned and operated sixth-generation farm where we milk 80 registered Holsteins. We also farm 400 acres of land planted with corn, soybeans, wheat and alfalfa to provide for our cattle. I take care of calves, milking and help where I am needed with miscellaneous work. In the fall, I plan to attend Ridgewater College in Willmar, Minnesota, to pursue an ag business degree.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a social person and love interacting with people in my community. Sharing my story as well as my knowledge of the dairy industry is one of my favorite ways to make connections with those around me. I have taken on many leadership roles and feel those skills will be used and carried throughout my life.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Farming is a fulltime job. Putting in early mornings and long days to get work done and ensure that our animals are well cared for puts a toll on farmers. We are doing everything we can to make sure that safe and healthy produce is making it to consumers.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Connecting with younger individuals directly and encouraging them to consume dairy products with every meal as well as snacks can provide them with a good source of protein as well as calcium. These nutrients are important especially for kids because their bodies are developing, and starting them off on the right foot is crucial.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would encourage my friends to choose cow’s milk because dairy alternatives are often fortified with nutrients that are naturally occurring in cow’s milk. If they have a dairy sensitivity, I would suggest they try A2 or Lactaid milk which is cow’s milk without lactose, which is the sugar that is often connected to sensitivities.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Going to various events around my community and serving products like ice cream, milk and cheese can encourage youth to consume dairy. Also, telling consumers that my favorite products help keep me strong and healthy could spark an interest in them to try to consume more dairy.

Parents: Steve Headlee and Michelle Headlee Brownton, Minnesota

Jessica Headlee, 19

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? This will be my sixth year in the royalty program. I’ve gained experience advocating for the dairy community. I’ve improved my communication skills. I’ve learned to become a better speaker and a better listener. I’ve also increased my dairy knowledge by talking with leaders in the community, doing research to prepare for the dairy appearances, participating in FFA in high school and PAS in college, and by doing research on questions that I’ve been asked. I need to promote dairy products and the community in a positive way. I also understand the importance of social media. My role is to answer their questions and help them understand the benefits dairy can provide in their lives. All the things I’ve learned through the experiences I’ve had will help me to better promote the dairy industry and be a good role model.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? It’s important to include dairy products in your life every day in order to keep you healthy. Dairy products help to build and maintain strong bones and teeth. They also help the heart, muscles and nerves to function properly. There are many dairy products they can choose from to get the nutrients and vitamins we need to stay healthy.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess and why? I love to connect with young kids. They look up to me as a role model and are eager to listen and learn about the things I share about dairy products and the dairy community. I love the projects we can do with them like making butter or ice cream, coloring and reading, and learning about dairy products. They are full of questions that I can help answer so they understand the importance of dairy in their lives. They also tend to love animals just as much as I do.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would let people know there are alternatives to dairy, but they might be missing out on the 13 essential nutrients dairy products provide. Some people think the nutrition you get from drinking milk can easily be replaced. This is not true. Research has found that people would be required to eat more food which means more calories and a higher cost to buy more food to get the essential nutrients a glass of milk provides.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I will have more opportunities to share the information I know about dairy farming and to promote the dairy products and community. I will gain valuable knowledge and resources to help me promote the dairy community, and I will get to share this information with consumers. I can let them know that daily consumption of dairy products will help them build and maintain strong bones and teeth. I can share all of the health benefits that dairy products can provide in our lives every day and encourage people to get their daily dose of dairy. I can also promote this by consuming dairy products both at home and at the events I attend.

Parents: Barry and Shannon Visser

Hutchinson, Minnesota

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The dedication that is put into producing a healthy and wholesome product. Dairy farmers continuously work to produce nature’s healthiest beverage.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to make more of a connection with young adults. It is important they recognize the importance and benefits of milk with their being many options in the grocery store.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would encourage them to pick up some chocolate milk next time they are at the store. Chocolate milk provides the same nutrients with a fun added flavor.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I have the opportunity to be the face of the dairy industry and represent Minnesota’s hard-working dairy farmers. In addition, I get to help educate consumers and encourage people to consume dairy products.

Parents: Paul and Heather Wright

Hutchinson, Minnesota

McKenna Wright, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Tell us about yourself. I am the fourth generation on my family’s dairy farm. My family has diversified our operation by selling beef products and Aronia berries directly to consumers. This fall, I will be attending South Dakota State University to major in agricultural education. After college, I plan to teach agriculture and be an FFA advisor. I would like to give back to the community by helping students gain as much hands-on experience in agriculture as possible.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? To be an effective dairy princess, you must be able to connect with the public while maintaining professionalism and grace. Public speaking is one of the most critical strengths there is to maintain a good public eye for any industry. I possess these qualities, and that will make me a better representative for farmers.

Tell us about yourself. I work at a restaurant in Hutchinson, Minnesota. Prior to this, I attended Ridgewater College in the dairy management program. I bought a cow of my own in the fall of 2019. I keep my cow and heifer at C-Hill Farms. I’ve been showing my cow since she was a calf and have received a state fair trip with her almost every year. I help at C-Hill Farms when needed. My dairy chores include feeding the calves their grain and hay, giving the calves their milk, and watering the calves outside. I help with feeding and milking the cows, getting the switch cows in and putting them back out for the night and/or morning. I also give shots and clean the needles for the next milking. In the milkhouse, I clean milkers and clean the dippers when we’ve finished

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Tell us about yourself. I live just outside of Hutchinson, Minnesota, with my two sisters, Kayla and Hannah, and my parents. While I do not live on a dairy farm, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to be involved in the dairy industry through working at Stadview. Located near Litchfield, Minnesota, Stadview is owned and operated by Chad and Stacy Bohn, where they milk registered Jerseys and raise Jersey show heifers. Some of my favorite tasks on the farm include feeding calves and working with the show heifers. Along with my work on the farm, I enjoy the opportunities to help and exhibit animals at various dairy shows across the Midwest. As a current senior at Hutchinson High School, I plan on attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to major in agriculture and food business management with an emphasis

Rachel Visser, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Minnesota Dairy Initiative mn-dairy-initiative.org

What do you think is one of the most essential dairy messages to share with consumers? No matter what dairy product you get off the shelf in a grocery store, it is safe for consumption. All dairy products are tested for antibiotics and are not touched by human hands before reaching the consumer.

Which essential demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with elementary-aged youth to help them better understand where their food comes from.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would let the consumer know that whether they are drinking skim milk or whole milk, they are receiving all 13 essential nutrients and a complete protein source. As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? It is my role to inform consumers of the benefits of including dairy in their daily diet. I do this by going into the public and making a good image for the dairy community by consuming dairy products myself and answering any questions consumers have about dairy products.

Parents: Darrel and Heidi Terning Darwin, Minnesota

Dayna Terning, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

Tell us about yourself. My maternal grandparents had a dairy farm about a mile from my house. I have two older brothers, two younger sisters and another younger brother. My parents both work full-time jobs, so during my younger years, we had to ride the bus. Almost every day, the bus picked up and dropped us off at my grandparents’ farm. We would help Grandpa with the afternoon chores and always enjoy an ice cream cone before going home. Eventually, my oldest brother, Dylan, worked there and also worked at Howe Holsteins before starting his own farm. I also worked there for a while to prepare for when my brother started his own dairy farm. Dylan began to milk on his own at the Settergren farm in August 2022. I mainly help him milk cows, but I also help with the daily chores like feeding calves, bedding pens and picking up feed.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have been told many times that I cannot handle a silent room. I talk to everyone and anyone. Even though I physically didn’t live on a dairy farm, I grew up on a dairy farm and possess the qualities a child would have while doing so. I have a strong work ethic and understand both the community and farmer standpoints of the industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? A dedicated dairy farm family, who shares a desire to provide the entire world with responsibly produced dairy foods that not only nourish people but also strengthen our communities and create a sustainable future, is all that goes into one glass of milk, a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of sour cream.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to reach as many people as possible. I will start by educating children. The future of the world lies in the hands of the young, and I will do everything in my power to inform the children of my community and share where their products come from and the hard work that needs to be done to make that happen, teaching a good work ethic.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friend that there is no other naturally created beverage that gives you all the nutrients that dairy does. I will also inform them that some coffee beverages do taste better with an alternative dairy option. If they are convinced dairy causes their health issues, I will inform them of lactose-free alternatives and the pros and cons of those items.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? It is my duty to be one of the main promotional faces of the industry. I am looking forward to learning as much as I can and expanding my knowledge to help people understand that dairy is a lifestyle built both by the farm and the consumers. I will also help promote a healthy lifestyle that includes dairy products each and every day.

Morrison County

Parents: Ron and Ann Borash

North Prairie, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself.

Erin Borash, 19

Dairy Star Sponsors:

Sunrise Ag Co-op 320-468-6433 sunriseagcoop.com Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

I am a student at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and run cross-country and track and field. I grew up working on my family’s dairy farm. We milk 50 Holsteins. At home, my chores include looking after the general welfare of all the cattle. This includes providing fresh feed, water and bedding to all the animals. I also help with fieldwork in the summer and fall, usually cutting, raking and baling hay. I also work on a 200-head dairy in Elsworth, Wisconsin, while at college. My chores there include milking, scraping stalls and moving cattle from pen to barn. Eventually, I would love to continue farming on my parents’ farm, but until then, I don’t have a specific career path in mind.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The dairy industry has been such a major part of my life. I have developed a deep passion for dairy and would like to share my experiences with others. I hope to connect with consumers and be a voice for the farmers of Morrison County.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The production and processing of milk have always been topics of interest to me. It is important to make consumers aware of the efficiency and care everyone, from farmers to truckers, takes in ensuring the dairy products on store shelves are the freshest they can possibly be. I also want to continue promoting dairy as part of a healthy diet for all ages. As a student-athlete, I find that dairy products are extremely beneficial in my own life. Besides providing 13 essential nutrients, dairy contributes to stronger bones and overall health.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? High school students. At this point, these students are preparing for college or the workforce, and it will soon be up to them to make healthy life choices regarding their diet and lifestyle.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Given the choice between dairy or dairy alternatives, I would always recommend going with dairy. It is important that consumers understand all the benefits of milk. Milk is processed by dairy farmers who take pride and care in producing quality products for their consumers. Milk contains 13 essential nutrients such as calcium, protein and vitamin D, to name a few. All these nutrients contribute to bone structure, muscle growth and overall health. Dairy alternatives, such as almond or soy beverages, fall short of meeting the same quality as dairy products. While being lactose free, alternatives are made of synthetic nutrients that lack the nutritional value of dairy.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Dairy products come in many forms; cheese, yogurt, ice cream and chocolate milk, to name a few. This past summer, I was able to pass out many of these delicious dairy treats at local town festivals and at the Morrison County Fair. These treats were simple yet effective ways to encourage dairy consumption. Adding dairy into your diet can be as simple as opening your fridge and having a glass of milk.

Parents: Jamie and Becky Gerads

Upsala, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. My family runs a small dairy farm. My job on the farm is to assist in milking our cows and taking care of our calves. Each morning before school, I have to feed our cows and then our calves. I help with milking each evening. I also help my father with mating decisions. I plan to attend Minnesota State University-Mankato and work toward a degree in social work.

Paige Gerads, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am an outgoing person which will make it easy for me to make friends and connections throughout this year. I am also an organized person, and the combination of these two qualities will help me in advocating for dairy.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers work hard and deserve respect and admiration. Farmers work hard day in and day out without a single day off. They put so much effort and time into producing their milk that is then used for all of our favorite dairy products. We need to learn to appreciate them more.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Younger elementary students. I hope to visit many classrooms across the county, do a lot of activities and teach about dairy to the kids so they know where their favorite dairy products come from.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell them to choose dairy because of all the hard work farmers put into producing it. Farmers work year-round to provide Americans with our favorite dairy products so it’s important we appreciate that work by choosing dairy products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role as a dairy princess is to always talk about the dairy industry with anyone wanting to listen. I can inform them of all that goes into the production and consumption of dairy products and why the dairy industry is so important and impacts all of us.

Parents: Scott and Gina Virnig Harding, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I’m involved in FFA and 4-H. My plan after high school is to get an Associate of Applied Science degree in horticulture and get a sustainable landscaping diploma. I work on my grandparents’ dairy farm. We have around 50 cows. My responsibility on the dairy farm is feeding calves and keeping the calves clean and happy.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have good communication skills and a strong work ethic.

Jazmin Virnig, 18

Dairy Star Sponsors: Pierz Co-op Pierz, MN

320-468-6655 pierzcooperation.com

Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? What the dairy industry is and how milk and other dairy products are good for you.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with K-6 grade kids. If you teach them young, they will have a better understanding of what the dairy industry is and can help teach their classmates.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? There are

Mower County

Morrison County continued Mower County continued many choices when it comes to dairy and dairy alternatives. Cow’s milk is a nutrient-rich food. Milk contains all three energy producing macronutrients: proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Milk is a natural product, typically containing just three ingredients: milk, vitamin A and vitamin D. It doesn’t contain stabilizers or flavorings found in non-dairy alternatives. Milk alternatives are made by processing nuts, grains, legumes or seeds with water and then straining out any solids. Additional ingredients are typically added such as protein, fat, preservatives, flavorings, thickeners and/or emulsifiers to create a palatable taste and texture. The resulting milks vary widely in taste, thickness, texture and nutrition.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? By teaching people what dairy has in it and how it’s good for you.

Parents: Landon and Michelle Westerman

Little Falls, Minnesota

Madison Westerman, 17

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Tell us about yourself. I live on my family’s dairy farm. We farm 400 acres, milk 40 cows, have 30 beef cows and feed out all our steers. We also have chickens, some goats and a mini donkey. I milk the cows every morning before school and at night in our tiestall barn. I mostly just milk, but I also help my younger siblings take care of the calves when it is needed. I help my dad keep the cow records in order and up to date and help vaccinate all of the animals. I help with fieldwork when I am needed and do whatever else needs to be done around the farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I do a lot of things in my community to promote the industry. From going to schools, churches and to nursing homes, I help people understand the dairy industry better. FFA has given me lots of opportunities to help people see how the dairy industry really works and why it is so important. I work hands on with every cow on the farm and get to watch them grow every step of the way.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Not a lot of people know that milk helps with dehydration. Milk is found to be more hydrating than water because it contains sugar, lactose, protein and fat, all of which help to slow the emptying of fluid from the stomach and keep hydration happening over a longer period. So, if people ever run into being dehydrated, my suggestion to them would be to drink a big glass of cold milk.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I am hoping to go to classrooms to teach kids how the dairy industry works and why dairy is so important. I have been to some in the past, and it is amazing to hear how much kids don’t know about the dairy industry. I want to be a part of helping the younger generation understand the dairy industry better.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Plant-based milk might be good for you but is not as nutritious as cow milk. Plant-based milks are missing important nutrition that cow milk provides. The plant-based milk doesn’t have the fat that is found in cow milk which means it is missing the calcium and vitamins A and D.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Promoting the dairy industry is something I love being able to do. I am hoping to go to classrooms to teach kids how the dairy industry works and why dairy is so important. I will also be attending my FFA’s Kitty Barnyard to educate young kids about the dairy industry. Serving ice cream at events this summer will give me an opportunity to help answer some questions adults have about the dairy industry.

Parents: Josh and Jody Canterbury Adams, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I have been a part of the dairy industry for around two years working on multiple farms doing chores. I grew up on a small crop farm in Adams, Minnesota. My first job was milking cows at Four Way Farm. I grew to love the industry and wanted to continue working with the cows. Last year, I was a dairy ambassador, and this is my first year as a dairy princess. This summer, I will be moving to Calmar, Iowa, to attend Northeast Iowa Community College for nursing.

Chloe Canterbury, 17

Dairy Star Sponsor: Meyerhofer Bagging Stacyville, IA 507-259-5863

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about the dairy industry and excited to educate others on the topic. I’m excited to promote an industry I love.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy has many essential nutrients to help keep the muscles and bones healthy and strong. There are so many important nutrients such as calcium, protein, vitamin D and phosphorus. These are all essential in the human diet.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I am excited to connect with the athletes on how important milk is in their diet. With athletes, muscles and bones are important to keep heathy, and milk is a great source to maintain them.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Dairy alternatives may have some benefits, but dairy has so many more benefits to the body. The industry is also beneficial to the environment. Buying dairy products is supporting the farmers who are working hard to take care of their animals as well as helping the environment.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is encouraging others and preaching the importance of dairy to the human body. I’m excited to spread my knowledge to others on this topic, because I’m passionate about it. There are many dairy products that can be consumed to get these essential nutrients.

Parents: Steve and Darcey Reinartz Adams, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I grew up on a dairy farm and loved going out and helping around the farm. Dairy is still a part of my everyday life. In the fall of 2023, I will be attending the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for elementary education.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess?

being produced, and even if they do not sound good at first, always just try it because you may end up loving it.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with the younger demographics as dairy princess. Teaching them the importance of dairy is a good thing.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell someone that if they are lactose intolerant to always drink the lactose-free milk option. By drinking lactose-free milk, you are still drinking a dairy product and supporting dairy farmers.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I can promote dairy products by going to events and serving various dairy products. I can also educate people on these dairy products.

Parents: Paul and Sara Silbaugh Lyle, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Meyerhofer Bagging Stacyville, IA 507-259-5863

I grew up on a hog and crop farm. I am a student at South Dakota State University studying agricultural business and animal science. I grew up helping on the farm from fieldwork to helping clean equipment and feeding the hogs. I was involved in 4-H and FFA. When I became a 4-H member in third grade, I started my own herd of dairy goats. I have raised, shown and milked these goats ever since. In sixth grade, I showed my first dairy heifers and fell in love with showing dairy cattle. I then decided I wanted to help on my uncle’s dairy farm because I spent most of my summers there working with my heifers.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a motivated and outgoing person and am willing to work with others to represent and better the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Step out of your comfort zone and try new things. There are always new dairy products and flavors being produced. It’s important to try them because you discover a new favorite food or drink.

Lydia Reinartz, 17

Dairy Star Sponsor: Meyerhofer Bagging Stacyville, IA 507-259-5863

I grew up around dairy cattle, and they have been apart of my life ever since. I also have dairy products every day, and I have since I was a little child. I also love to promote dairy in the area.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Always try new things. There are always new dairy products

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with the younger demographic in my community. Targeting the younger generation and properly educating them on the industry will allow them to support the industry in the future and possibly help influence their parents on why dairy products are a healthy choice for consumers.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would start with yogurt. People who are lactose intolerant can consume lactose-free yogurt. There are many flavors and brands of yogurt. There is something for everyone. There are yogurt products that come with chocolate or granola to mix in, or you can have it by itself or even mix it in a shake.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I play a vital role in encouraging dairy consumption by going out in the community and handing out dairy products for consumers to try. There are many unique dairy products out there. Getting consumers out of their comfort zones and trying new products they may end up loving is the role I play. Another role I play is educating the future generation on the benefits of dairy products, the different types of products to try and to help give knowledge of the industry.

Megan Silbaugh, 18

Murray County

Rylaarsdam Chandler, Minnesota

Lydia Rylaarsdam,

18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Blue Hilltop Lake Wilson, MN

507-879-3593

Tell us about yourself. I have spent most of my life living on a dairy farm. My favorite chores on the farm are helping my grandma feed the calves and assisting in the fields. I have also shown my cow, Bella, at the fair. In my first year showing her, we placed first. In the seventh grade, I joined FFA. In FFA, I found my love for dairy judging. I am serving as the Edgerton FFA Chapter president and the Minnesota FFA Region 6 treasurer. At the 93rd and 94th state FFA conventions, I had the privilege of taking home state champion in the ag processing and ag sales proficiency award. I am attending Augustana University in the fall to major in elementary education.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a good listener, am compassionate and show leadership. It’s so important to listen. Listen to what people have to say, other opinions and other perspectives. If you don’t, how are you supposed to grow as an individual? It’s important to be compassionate. I know as farmers and people who work in the dairy industry and agriculture, it’s so easy to put on a brave face all the time. But it’s OK to show feelings and talk about the hard things. As I am actively involved in FFA, my church, the National Honor Society and my job, wherever I go, it’s important to be a positive role model for other people. I genuinely seek to make a difference in this world, and I want everyone to know they have a purpose and a plan. I strive for younger kids to look at me and see hope that they can do anything if they put their mind to it.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Remember to thank farmers. The sad reality is farmers are twice as likely as people in other occupations to die by suicide. Our farmers put in an incredible amount of work and dedication to make sure we have food, clothes and even products we don’t think about. They are the backbone of our country. And for that, we give thanks.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Young women’s representation is important in the dairy industry. As a young female representing the dairy industry, it is my responsibility to educate my peers about female role models who have positively impacted agriculture and the dairy industry. It’s important to know that they do not need to be people who have a big social platform. They can be local. Kiley Wiering and Sarah Bierstedt are two positive female role models I have looked up to since I was a child. They both have brought their own ideas to the table and have shown me it is OK to have a voice in agriculture. It’s encouraging. Following in their footsteps, I encourage all girls to have a voice in agriculture.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would make sure they have the facts between the different products available. Then, I would let them decide what they want.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? It’s important to make sure we are advocating for agriculture and the dairy industry. Because of the influence we hold, we have to lead, advocate and teach. Making sure everyone is consuming a healthy diet is important. We are able to implement dairy into a diet.

Nicollet County

Parents: Randy and Nicole Aschenbrenner

New Ulm, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I graduated from New Ulm Public High School in 2021 and will compete my degree in agriculture science from South Dakota State University this year. After graduation, I will be taking a position at Miller Sellner as a precision farming specialist. I have been working on Sjostrom Farms where we are milking just under 100 Holsteins. I am responsible for feeding calves, milking the herd and fieldwork from time to time. I plan to keep involved with the dairy industry as I take on a new chapter of life after graduation.

Brooke Aschenbrenner, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My ability to be a leader benefits me. I am always willing to spark a conversation with strangers, especially when it comes to promoting the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? One of the most important messages to share now, and always, is the importance of dairy products in our diet. It is providing so many nutrients to help our bodies grow and keep healthy.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I always love to connect with middle school students because they are enthusiastic in their learning. These students are at a stage where they begin formulating their own opinions on many topics and being able to stark their thoughts with the dairy industry is always exciting. It can be as simple as them discovering dairy products they love or sparking a career interest for their future.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? When addressing the choices of dairy products, it is important to find a product that best suits that person. If they do have a lactose allergy, I love to suggest dairy products with less lactose if possible. For those who are open to all dairy products, I like to encourage a glass of milk in the morning to begin the day with a nutrient-filled product. For a snack after work, yogurt is a great option with many flavor options.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I like to encourage dairy consumption through making a connection first. In most cases, this is with student athletes as many high school students attend a long day in the classroom and attend practice immediately after. Dairy products are a great boost of energy in between activities whether it is string cheese or chocolate milk provided for the athletes.

Parents: Rob and Gail Moline St. Peter, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I grew up on a hobby farm where we have pigs, sheep and rabbits. I am attending school at the University of Minnesota to study animal science, pre-vet. I am involved in the Gopher Dairy Club, Block and Bridle and the Beta of Clovia sorority. I work at the U of MN animal hospital and sheep barn. For the last seven years, I have been volunteering, working and leasing dairy from the Annexstads’ dairy farm. The Annexstads raise Holsteins, and it is a family operation. Everyone in the family has been a mentor to me, teaching

me and showing me how to care for the cows and calves. I help with chores and mentor 4-H members who lease calves for the fair. The Annexstads have helped teach me everything I know about dairy. I learned how to give shots, make bottles for the calves, clean pens to keep the animals warm and dry, and everything else it takes to keep the animals healthy. Working on their farm has sparked my interest in wanting to be a large animal veterinarian to help care for animals and give back to others who have helped me along the way.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about everything I do and have a great smile that makes me approachable to others. I have hands-on experience within the industry to help answer questions that come my way. I am also a hard worker, and I don’t stop or give up until the task is complete. These qualities will help make me an effective dairy princess.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? We take care of our animals well. If you stopped by a dairy farm on any given day, you’d be more likely to find the farmers in the barn with their cows than in the house. Farmers have a passion for the health and well-being of their animals. Dairy products are nutritious. They offer a huge number of nutrients that you cannot get without dairy. Beyond this, there are many fun and delicious ways dairy can fit into a healthy lifestyle.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would love to connect with kids. They love to do dairy-related crafts and activities that they remember and can tell their family and friends about. If we can share dairy’s positive story to kids, then they can be supporters of the dairy industry as they grow. I would also target young adults in Generation Z who are influenced by social media. Posting promotional videos and ads that they can republish is a good way to reach that audience.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Dairy products provide many nutrients that other options might not. You can get your supplements other ways, but dairy products are high in vitamin D, protein and calcium. Some milk alternatives contain oil which, when processed, can lead to inflammation, and the nutritional profile is often not comparable to dairy products. Nothing can beat the taste of a cold glass of milk.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I play a huge role in encouraging healthy dairy consumption by showing my passion for dairy. I show others my love for the dairy community and why they should love it too. At college, my friends know I am a huge dairy supporter. I keep my own squeeze bottle of sour cream that I take to the cafeteria each day, and I never forget to stop and get an ice cream on my way out. My favorite snack food is a cheese stick which I keep in my dorm fridge, and I always share. Volunteering at malt stands and farm events this summer, I will make sure kids know their favorite snacks come from cows.

Nobles County

Parents: Steve and Esther Dykstra Bigelow, Minnesota

Makayla Moline, 19

Dairy Star Sponsors: Compeer Financial 507-387-4174 compeer.com

Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

Tell us about yourself. I grew up on my family’s dairy farm, but my love for cattle developed when I started showing cattle at our local fair. Our family farm has approximately 300 milking cows that are milked three times a day. I am finishing my first year at Southeast Technical College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and am going to graduate this fall with an associate degree in marketing. I hope to be an advocate for the dairy industry and use my education to advertise and market for my local dairy community.

Karen Dykstra, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Equipment

Pipestone, MN

507-825-3271

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love the opportunity to talk to others, and I love sharing my dairy story. I am passionate about the dairy industry, and my favorite thing to do is plan

Parents: Virgil and Sarah

Nobles County continued

dairy events that involve our local community.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Animal care is one of the most important aspects of a dairy farmer’s job. Just like humans, cows have different dietary needs. Many farms work with nutritionists to help their cows stay healthy. Another way we care for our animals is by keeping their living areas clean by keeping their bedding fresh and cleaning up their manure.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I love connecting with people of all ages, but I strive to connect with people ages 12-30, because this is when most people are learning how to cook meals for themselves and are wondering about their health. Eating nutritious dairy foods such as milk, cheese and yogurt will improve bone health and has helped lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and lower blood pressure in adults.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would inform them of all the options they have to choose from, such as low-fat options, fat-free options, lactose-free milk and different kinds of cheeses such as aged cheddar and Swiss. There are dairy products to suit everyone’s needs.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Throughout my role as a dairy princess, I like to talk to classes in my community about the nutrition of dairy products. I love to work with the kids and help them learn how to make healthy snacks with dairy products.

Parents: Paul Evans, father; Sarah Bush, mother; and Jason Bush, step-father Worthington, Minnesota

Nakia Evans, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: New Vision Co-op Brewster, MN 507-842-2001

Tell us about yourself. I never grew up on a dairy farm but was eager to surround myself with the industry when I spent mornings feeding cows with my dad and joined and competed in 4-H and FFA events. I took the opportunity to work on D+S Hilltop Farms as a Supervised Agricultural Experience for FFA. On the farm, I take care of the calves by making sure they are all well fed, vaccinated and happy. My experience with the dairy industry has influenced what future plans I have for myself. I plan on working at D+S Hilltop Farms until I lease an apartment in River Falls, Wisconsin, where I am working on earning my bachelor’s degree in agriculture education with a minor in dairy science.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I see a dairy princess being on time, passionate about what she advocates for and caring to all those who meet her. I see myself as someone who possesses these qualities and so many more.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers produce nutritious and delicious dairy products and work hard to ensure the consumers’ needs are met and exceed expectations that consumers may set when walking through the dairy aisle at the grocery store. The consumers are the ones who are influencing decisions about what different practices and products farmers should be using to ensure that the consumer is getting what they need from the dairy industry as a whole.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with the younger generations because they are the future of not only our industry but the consumer population as well. They are going to be making the decisions when the current farmers are retired or looking for the next generation to take over.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would recommend cheese to my friend because it can be used on and in so many dishes, and you may not even know that it is in the dish. There are varieties of flavors to enjoy cheese, different ways to enjoy cheese, and cheese provides additional flavor to any meal.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, encouraging dairy consumption should be broken down into different categories rather than attempting to have a consumer think they should consume more dairy all at once. I would start by having the consumer try dairy products, including dairy alternatives.

Parents: Chad and Teresa Wieneke

Adrian, Minnesota

Alysha Wieneke, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: New Vision Co-op Brewster, MN 507-842-2001

Tell us about yourself. I am the fifth generation of dairy farmers on both sides. I live on a 350cow dairy. We raise our youngstock on-site, but we have our bottle calves at a calf raiser. We grow corn, beans and alfalfa. We feed out bull calves in the feed lot with other beef cattle. I help in the fields and occasionally with chores when not at school. This coming fall, I will be starting my junior year at South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, for agricultural science. I have always been passionate about animals and the farm way of life. I plan to stay involved in agriculture after school.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love answering questions and teaching others about the dairy industry and the quality products that dairy farmers provide.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Milk is very healthy for you and has so many nutrients that your body needs. Also, milk is and always has always been antibiotic free.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with kids. If they start and get in the habit of reaching for dairy products, it becomes lifelong. Also, they ask great questions and bring back what they’ve learned to their parents.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would point out the lactose-free milk. The dairy industry has done a phenomenal job at filtering for lactose-free products. If you have lactose sensitivity, you do not have to give up the quality and nutrition that milk provides.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I talk to kids and adults at different events and parades. I hand out dairy products and share my love for the industry.

attend graduate school and earn my Ph.D. in ruminant nutrition or animal medicine.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My ability to fit key messages to the audience I am addressing. I can match my delivery of a key message to the educational level or dairy experience I am addressing to that person or people. I bring a welcoming energy that allows people with little to no dairy experience to feel comfortable asking questions about the dairy industry. I am lactose intolerant. Having that experience helps me educate people about how they can enjoy dairy even if they have a lactose intolerance.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farms are sustainable and are always working to reduce outputs that could harm the environment. Environmental concerns have been a hot topic for the past few years and many consumers are starting to question the sustainability of farming. It’s important to share the practices that dairy farmers put in place such as using precision technology to use the lowest amounts of inputs while maintaining their yield or recycling manure to help with crop growth.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Although I love connecting with young kids at dairy events, I hope to connect more with parents and adults this year as a dairy princess. Parents are who make the choices at the store of what to buy. It’s important for us to share the benefits of dairy products and why they should feed their family a balanced diet that includes three servings of dairy products each day.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? The option I would tell a friend to choose would be whole milk. Unlike most dairy alternatives, milk includes 13 essential nutrients and protein. This makes it a great way to fuel our bodies. You can also do so many things with whole milk. Not only is milk great to drink plain, but you can also add chocolate or strawberry syrup or use it for baking. Overall, whole milk is a nutritious dairy product and a great staple to any fridge.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I promote dairy consumption through talking about my favorite dairy products at different events and educate the public about the wide array of dairy products. I also explain why dairy products should be part of a nutritious, balanced diet by sharing nutrition facts with consumers.

East Otter Tail County

Parents: Barry and Janine Cronk

Henning, Minnesota

Olmsted County

Parents: Jeff and Cheryl Simpson Pine Island, Minnesota

Anne Simpson, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Central Livestock Zumbrota 877-732-7305 centrallivestock.com

Tell us about yourself. I grew up down the road from my grandparents’ farm. My grandparents milked Holsteins and Red and White Holsteins until 2005. My family kept a few cows at a family friend which allowed me to become involved with showing at county fairs. I was also able to lease animals from our family friends. The farm I lease from is the Little Valley Dairy in Plainview, Minnesota. They milk around 120 registered Holsteins, registered Red and White Holsteins and grade Holsteins. I am a freshman at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, studying animal science on the pre-veterinarian tract. I hope to either attend veterinary school with a focus on large animal medicine or

Maggie Cronk, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Tell us about yourself. I live on a small dairy farm where my parents and I milk 32 Holstein cows, raise our own heifers and grow crops for the cattle. I help with calf care, bookkeeping and wherever else is needed. I graduated from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a minor in agribusiness. In August, I will begin classes at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. I also work at a small animal veterinary clinic as a receptionist/assistant besides helping on the farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My passion, dedication and experience help me be a good dairy princess. Living on a dairy farm and working at the NDSU Dairy Unit while in college gave me first-hand stories and knowledge of what happens on an active farm. Having that knowledge and ability to communicate those stories to people who haven’t had my same experience allows me to be a great dairy advocate. It takes dedication and passion to be involved with the dairy community and the same goes for advocating for the community as well.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Animal welfare is one of the biggest thoughts always on a farmer’s mind. They want to continually make sure their cows are taken care of and get everything they need. This means having tailored diets, comfortable living conditions and excellent veterinary care if they become sick. Many farmers make sure their animals are fed and tended to before caring for themselves.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I love connecting with youth and giving them a peek inside agriculture because there are so many kids who don’t have the opportunity to grow up on a farm. Youth are also inquisitive and aren’t afraid to ask questions which makes for some fun conversations.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would encourage my friends to look at all the benefits of cow’s milk and the wholesomeness of it. Dairy is packed with lots of protein as well as many vitamins and minerals all in one location. Not many other food groups have that same effect. Many dairy alternatives must be artificially fortified with those same nutrients whereas dairy products have these nutrients naturally. These nutrients help build strong bones and muscles and sustain growth and development, which is great for all ages.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I get to visit with so many people from all backgrounds about the nutritiousness of dairy products. By emphasizing the wholesomeness of dairy products and how easily they can be incorporated into everyday diets, I can help people realize why dairy is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Sharing simple recipes on social media or at events gives people more ideas of ways to incorporate dairy into their daily meals.

Parents: Francisco Lopez and Noemi Gonzalez Perham, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself My step-dad works as a herdsman and does other miscellaneous jobs at Stone Dairy in Henning, Minnesota. I occasionally volunteer at the dairy helping with feeding calves, milking cows and cleaning pastures. I am employed as a certified nursing assistant. I enjoy traveling, crocheting, working with animals and the elderly, and getting my hands dirty with any project I can find.

Megan Eckman, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Even though I am fairly new at all of this, I am determined.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Milk does the body good. I have always been told to drink my milk in school. I was a stubborn little kid because I didn’t like milk, but over the years, it grew on me. Milk makes your bones strong and helps you think better.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Probably younger folks because of the many options of dairy products there are. There has never been so many before.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? To try a bit of everything but only consume what they are comfortable with. All products are delicious.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Milk is a good source of calcium and also helps grow strong bones. Milk improves cognitive functions and tastes great.

Pipestone County

Parents: David and Dawn Sutherland

Pipestone, Minnesota

Josie Sutherland, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Windy Ridge Vet Clinic Pipestone, MN 507-825-3336

Tell us about yourself. I was raised on a farm in rural Pipestone County. We raise market beef and swine as well as run a row crop corn and soybean operation. As a fourth grader, I started leasing dairy heifers to show at the county fair, and from there, I grew in involvement in the dairy industry. I show dairy cattle for Newalta Dairy and work as a relief milker at Elm Lane Holsteins. My involvement in the dairy industry sparked my love for caring for heifers and writing to educate consumers. I plan to pursue a career that allows me to continue advocating for the dairy industry and continue helping create rations for dairy animals to grow optimally.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a driven person, and this characteristic has allowed me to be a strong leader as well as an organized person. These qualities have allowed me to grow from leaders around me and take on new tasks to grow through trials. Throughout my time as a dairy princess, these qualities have allowed me to assist in planning events to advocate for the dairy industry, and I have helped educate many people as well.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? We are not here to fight them, and we care just as much about food safety as they do. Through classes I have taken and people I have communicated with, I know that most consumers just want to be reassured and not feel like they are being muted out by facts. Assuring consumers that we care allows them to be open to what we are trying to communicate.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The most important demographic to connect with is people in their 20s. These people are trying to find what is right for them through social media and want to know what they are doing is best for their health. If we can communicate how much we care, we can connect with them. This will allow them to listen.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend to choose yogurt. Not only is it an excellent source of probiotics and protein, but it also has a lower level of lactose in it so more people can digest it. And right now, there are so many different kinds of yogurt to fit any lifestyle.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I have to be able to let consumers know that it isn’t just milk. There are other dairy products that have ingredients they can pronounce that also fuel their bodies in ways that plant alternatives can’t. Also, dairy has vitamins and minerals that allow for strength to repair our bones and muscles, even when we put constant wear and tear on our bodies.

Parents: Keith and Jeanna Welgraven Ruthton, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am graduating high school this year and am attending the University of South Dakota as a mathematics education major to further my goal of becoming a secondary math teacher. My dairy farm is located between Holland and Ruthton, and we milk about 100 head and have both Milking Shorthorns and Holstein cattle.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about the dairy community and making sure people have the right information. I am also a kind person and try to help whenever possible. I also try to step up and be a leader when needed.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers care about the environment and our cattle.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The younger generation because they constantly hear untrue information from adults about the industry, and it’s important for them to hear the correct information from people involved in the industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I always say that actual milk is the best option; however, I have friends who are sensitive to lactose. Then, I advise them to go with a milk that is lactose-free because it’s still milk but will not upset them because there is no lactose.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I constantly share the benefits dairy gives you and your body, and I share the lactose-free options to those who are dairy sensitive. I also make sure to support the dairy industry and buy dairy products instead of the dairy-free alternatives.

Pope County

Parents: Nate and Angie Walter Westport, Minnesota

Laureen Walter, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Minnesota Dairy Initiative

mn-dairy-initiative.org

Tell us about yourself. I am the fourth-generation on my family’s 100 crossbred-cow dairy farm. The farm was started in 1935 by my great-grandpa Kenneth, taken over by my grandpa Fred and is now farmed by my parents. In 2013, we transitioned to organic and now sell our milk to Organic Valley. We farm 390 acres and prioritize grazing. I mainly help on the farm by milking the cows, while my brother does more of the jobs that require equipment. I was in 4-H, where I showed dairy and held leadership roles. I was also in FFA, FCCLA, Knowledge Bowl, P4T and was a boys basketball manager. I will graduate from South Dakota State University next spring with a degree in agricultural business and a minor in economics.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have many leadership skills that will help me. Growing up on a dairy farm gave me a strong work ethic. It also gave me a passion for the dairy industry and all of agriculture, which drives me to be an advocate for agriculture. I am a strong communicator and can share about all of the good in the dairy industry. I am a problem-solver, determined and have a positive outlook.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The subject of animal welfare. Many consumers have seen the false media that portrays the dairy industry as cruel and abusive. If they do not look any further, they may believe it is true. When I first heard someone say that the cows on dairy farms are treated poorly, I was confused. Growing up on a dairy farm, I knew how important the cows were to my family. We all worked so hard to take care of them, and I sometimes wondered if my dad liked them more than me. Every farmer cares about their animals. If there is anything consumers need to know, it is that farmers prioritize their animals over themselves and would not do anything that would harm their animals.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Adults, especially adults with young children. As a child, my mom decided on all of the foods I ate. She did the grocery shopping

Katelyn Welgraven, 17

Pope County continued

Redwood County continued

Parents: Troy and Kelly Krause Milroy, Minnesota

Renville County continued and prepared my meals. In just about every household, parents decide what their children eat. This includes whether or not they decide to feed dairy. I want to connect with parents to share with the benefits of including dairy in their diets but especially for their children.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would encourage them to choose real dairy products. Real dairy wins in just about every category. Many look toward dairy alternatives because they are lactose intolerant. However, there are dairy products that are lactose free, especially milk. Dairy is more pure and simple than dairy alternatives. Many dairy alternatives contain ingredients and additives, while dairy is real milk from real cows. In my book, it definitely wins in the taste category too.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I encourage dairy consumption by being a role model. I consume a lot of dairy. For a snack, I reach for a cheese stick, and for a late-night treat, you will definitely find me eating ice cream. Dairy products are a great way to get your protein in, which is important for a healthy lifestyle. Dairy also contains many vitamins and minerals that you cannot find in most other products. Dairy is a tool for a healthy lifestyle.

Redwood County

Parents: Nels and Shannon Goblirsch Wabasso, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am attending South Dakota State University as a freshman majoring in animal science with the hope of obtaining a degree in veterinary medicine, but my love for animals stems from where I was raised. I grew up and currently work on my family’s robotic dairy farm. The farm is owned and operated by my father and his brother, but my grandma, aunt, brother and three cousins also work at the farm. I will be the fourth generation to work on the family farm.

Cadence

Goblirsch, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Equipment Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My leadership, creativity and passion for the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? So much work is put into getting dairy products on the shelf for you like your pizza, cheese, milk, ice cream or even yogurt. But, what some people don’t know is that cows don’t take a day off and neither do our farmers. They work endlessly for us, and they truly do not receive enough credit or thanks for the hard work they put in. So next time you see a farmer or are enjoying a delicious dairy product, thank the farmer who worked endlessly to put that on your table.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The younger generations such as high schoolers and youth.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would try to be a role model to that friend and show them how dairy products can be healthy as well. I would try to explain to my friend about how the ingredients in dairy products are natural and that our bodies can break them down much easier than other artificial ingredients that some dairy alternatives are made with.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I work to educate people about the health benefits and dietary needs of dairy products in people’s everyday diets.

Anna Krause, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Farmers Co-op Association Milroy, MN 507-336-2555

Tell us about yourself. I grew up on a small hobby farm raising a few pigs and chickens. I have been in 4-H ever since I was old enough to be in it. Through 4-H about seven years ago, I got the opportunity to lease dairy cattle to show at the county fair from my club leader. Through leasing cattle, I was given the opportunity to work on the farm. I started with feeding calves and over time was given more responsibilities on the farm. I am attending Ridgewater College for dairy management. This summer, I will continue to work on the Stage family’s dairy farm while also advocating for the dairy industry. I hope to continue to work on a dairy farm and eventually have my own someday.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My love and passion for the dairy industry makes me a good dairy princess. I love getting to teach little kids about the dairy industry and seeing the excitement they have when they are learning new things. I also am a dedicated person to my work and am willing to try anything.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers have so much love and care for their cattle.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? To connect the dairy industry with teenagers and adults, roughly ages 15 to 25. People in this age group can be considered new consumers. When everyone gets to be around this age, they are able to start buying their own groceries. These people are in my peer group, and I would be able to try and have a positive influence on them.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? There are so many dairy alternatives. I would not recommend any dairy alternatives to any friends. I would easily recommend dairy products because they have so many health benefits.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I would encourage consumers that dairy products are good for you to consume because of the health benefits that can come out of dairy products on a daily basis.

Renville County

Parents: Curt and Lisa Nachreiner Fairfax, Minnesota

Madalynn Nachreiner, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: United Farmers Cooperative Winthrop, MN

507-232-1000

for the agriculture world shines when I get the opportunity to talk with others about the industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The most important message to share with consumers right now is the true definition of the word milk versus other products that claim to be milk. The true definition of milk is a white liquid food produced by the mammary glands of mammals.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? One key demographic I like to connect with is children to educate them about how important dairy is. They are always eager to learn new things so it’s the perfect age to help them grasp how important the dairy industry is to the world. I like to help educate them on how important dairy is in their diet along with how milk is produced.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? By choosing dairy products, it provides you with natural health benefits and it tastes better.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Dairy consumption is molded into every meal we have whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner. Nothing goes better with a steak than washing it down with a big, cold glass of milk.

Parents: Brad and Sara Nosbush Fairfax, Minnesota

Annika Nosbush, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: United Farmers Cooperative Winthrop, MN

507-232-1000

Tell us about yourself. I live on a dairy farm and am a senior at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. I run cross-country and track and am involved in student council, Minnesota Honor Society, Youth Eco Solutions team and cheerleading. I am also involved in 4-H and spend most of my summer preparing cattle to show at the Renville County Fair. I work at Divine Providence Community Home as a dietary aide throughout the school year and summer. My father owned Nosbush Dairy with his two brothers for many years and recently sold the dairy to Lax-Pietig, which he is now a partner in. Lax-Pietig Dairy currently milks 1,000 Holstein dairy cows and farms 1,500 acres of land in Renville County. I plan to attend the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and major in biochemistry with the hope of becoming a medical doctor.

Tell us about yourself. I grew up and have been involved in the day-to-day activity on my family’s dairy farm, Nachreiner Dairy LLC, where we milk 250 cows, raise all our calves and farm 1,500 acres. Being involved all these years has helped shape me into who I am today. I love everything that comes with the agricultural lifestyle, while maybe not the early mornings. I am involved in softball, FFA, 4-H and community events. In the past few years, I have raised my own goats and chickens. My future plan is to complete an associate degree in agribusiness service and management. After completing college, I plan to seek a career in the ag industry and assist on my family’s dairy operation.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My background in dairy along with my role of FFA president has grown my communication skills, developed leadership skills and grown my knowledge in dairy to help promote it to others. My excitement

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a passionate user of dairy products and have grown up around the dairy industry. I am involved in many extracurricular activities including 4-H which have taught me many leadership and communication skills. I want to spread the message about the importance of dairy products in a healthy diet, which I am already starting now as a dairy princess.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy products are beneficial to your health. There are many new diets and people who shine a bad light on dairy products. Consumers need to know the true health benefits of consuming dairy products and why they are so important.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Children because they are the future of agriculture. Teaching children the importance and benefits of dairy products can set up life-long eating habits and sustain the future of the dairy industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend to read the nutrition label which shows the greater benefits of dairy products compared to dairy alternatives. I would tell a friend to choose a product based on their preferences. For example, if they want a low-fat option, they may choose skim milk or cheese made from skim milk.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I help promote the health benefits of dairy prod-

Renville County continued on next page

ucts and spread this message to many people through our events. I am able to reach people of all ages and show the importance of dairy in our community and world. I am also an example to others through all of the events and activities we participate in.

Rice County

Parents: Pat and Clarice DeGrood Faribault, Minnesota

Karlie DeGrood, 17

Parents: Marshall Johnson and Jill Ellingson Faribault, Minnesota

ence with it. This is a skill that is learned, and I have been blessed with the opportunities serving as a dairy maid and in other leadership positions to develop that skill.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers work hard to produce healthy and safe food in all circumstances. Many times, this requires them to sacrifice time with family and friends.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Tell us about yourself. I was in volleyball, basketball and trapshooting. I have also been a part of Students Against Destructive Decisions, Student Service Club, National Honor Society, FFA and Campus Ministry. I am in 4-H where I show in the dairy and swine projects along with general projects. We custom raise dairy heifers for a local dairy farmer along with raising hogs for another farmer. We also raise and maintain crops throughout the year. I plan to attend South Dakota State University to major in ag business and minor in ag communications and commodity risk management. After receiving my college education, I would love to get a job working closely with farmers while also continuing to work on my family farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a good dairy princess because of my communication skills and how easy I find it to interact with both the public and other farmers. At our events throughout the summer, we like to target our attention toward the youth to excite, engage and educate them about the dairy industry. I am outgoing and enjoy talking to the farmers we represent because there is much we can learn from them to better our knowledge about the ever-changing industry and better our communication to the public.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? How valuable and progressive the dairy industry is. The industry has so much to offer and is constantly finding new ways to support dairy animals and caretakers. With the advancements in technology and animal husbandry, the dairy industry is looking into ways to explore different avenues to better the support for animals.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I wish to connect more with our youth because they are the future. It is important to educate and engage them in the dairy industry when they are young, so they can excite those around them to also be active in the industry. The dairy industry is constantly growing with endless opportunities. I hope the education we, as princesses, can provide will initiate a desire to better the industry for the future.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would recommend a glass of milk. There are many benefits to drinking a single glass of milk like a solid source of calcium, increase of vitamin intake and hydration. It is a drink for all ages from a young infant’s first diet to any adult wanting a cold beverage on any given day. If I were looking for a quick, good source of vitamins and minerals, I would reach for a glass of cold milk especially when I am thirsty.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? This year, we tried something different during our time on the parade routes. We not only handed out some fun stickers and coloring books but also some frozen Go-Gurts. In this way, we can provide the younger children with a healthy dairy product: yogurt. The younger generation is the future, and if we can promote dairy consumption and a healthy lifestyle, the industry will continue to prosper.

Tell us about yourself I have been a part of the dairy industry through the 4-H lease program for the past 12 years. I enjoy participating in dairy quiz bowl and dairy judging competitions as it continues to reinforce my knowledge about animal health, farm operations and the industry as a whole. At the farm that I lease from, they only milk about 10 cows and keep all the milk on the homestead. I work with and train the fair animals as well as assist with any other chores at various shows or on the farm throughout the year. After graduating from high school, I plan to attend Iowa State University to major in agricultural business and minor in marketing and animal science.

Brooke Johnson, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I can communicate well with others and am able to share about the dairy industry. I am outgoing and have a tremendous passion for advocating all the substantial topics happening on the farm and within our industry and products.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? It is important for consumers to know where dairy foods/products come from and how they are produced. How consumers’ food gets from the farm to their table is a question some people are curious about as well as the nutritional benefits of dairy products.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? As one of the Rice County dairy princesses this year, I look forward to connecting with the younger generations because they are the ones who will take over some day. I enjoy engaging with children at events and doing activities with them that get the kids excited about the day-to-day operations on the farm.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? The dairy product that I would pick to tell a friend about is milk. Milk alone is a nutrient-dense drink that is rich in calcium and has a good balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. After a good workout or any physical exercise, you can replenish your body with milk or, even better, chocolate milk.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am an advocate for the dairy industry as well as the farmers who are within it. As an advocate, I have the opportunity to spread awareness of the benefits you get from consuming dairy products especially at events like Dairy Day on the Farm. Having dairy princesses at local events can be effective at connecting with consumers about the dairy community and encouraging the consumption of these delicious products.

Parents: Nate and Shannon Kuball Morristown, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls studying agriculture education hoping to one day be a high school agriculture teacher. I live and work on my family’s 240-cow dairy farm. My siblings and I are the sixth generation on our farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? A good dairy princess should be able to effectively communicate their passion for the dairy industry to people who may have never had experi-

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with people who have had very little experience with the dairy industry to help people understand what a huge role dairy farming plays in communities and the economy. I would also like to connect back with farmers and give them the recognition they deserve.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend that dairy products are filled with vitamins and minerals that our bodies need. It is always a good idea to have the recommended servings of dairy to keep our bodies running.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I like to lead by example by making sure I am buying and using dairy products on a daily basis.

Parents: Gordon and Hindy Saemrow Waterville, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I work on my family’s 800cow dairy. Our farm is family owned with a majority of family members being involved in the operation. We raise our own calves and replacement heifers. In addition to the dairy farm, my family also contract grows turkeys for Jennie-O. I plan to attend college next fall and major in animal science.

Jacy Saemrow, 18

Dairy Star Sponsors: Northland Farm Systems

Owatonna, MN

507-214-3430

northlandfarmsystems.com

Minnesota Dairy Initiative

mn-dairy-initiative.org

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about the dairy industry and will do whatever I can to promote the dairy industry. I am excited to be able to share my story of growing up on a dairy farm.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Consumers need to hear the importance of dairy in their diet and the benefits that come with locally sourced products. Consumers should know all of the hard work and dedication that goes into the food they are consuming.

Emma Kuball, 19

Dairy Star Sponsors: Northland Farm Systems Owatonna, MN

507-214-3430 northlandfarmsystems.com

Minnesota Dairy Initiative mn-dairy-initiative.org

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? It is most important to connect with children. Children are the future of the country, so being able to educate them on the benefits of dairy products from a young age will ensure they continue to consume dairy products in the future.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would emphasize the nutritional value and benefits that come with the consumption of dairy products. Dairy is a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals while still having a great taste.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I make sure to always include dairy products in any meal I eat. I also like to showcase the versatility of dairy. Dairy comes in many forms, including cheese, smoothies, ice cream and more.

Sibley County

Parents: James and Wendy Dieball Green Isle, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I work on my family’s robotic dairy farm. My duties on the farm include washing robots, feeding calves and taking care of cows that have just calved. My future plans are to attend Northeast Iowa Community College in Calmar, Iowa, to get a degree in early childhood education. I plan to open my own day care on a piece of land with different farm animals.

Shelby Dieball, 18 Dairy Star Sponsors: Minnesota Dairy Initiative

mn-dairy-initiative.org

B&R Dairy Winthrop, MN 507-647-7000

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am good at working with young children. I work at our school day care. By being lucky enough to work with children, I am able to share my love for the dairy industry. I am able to communicate well with others. I am a chapter officer for our FFA chapter at school where I have learned a lot of my communication skills.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? I would like to share with consumers that dairy is a wholesome and healthy product.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Getting younger children more involved in the dairy industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend the important information a dairy product has to offer and why it is important to consume dairy products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am able to tell people why dairy is so important as well as why the community should be consuming some type of dairy product.

Parents: Scott and Stephanie Krueger Arlington, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I live and work on my family’s 100-cow dairy farm. After graduating high school two years ago, I made the decision to forego college and begin working full time alongside my parents. We milk twice a day in a tiestall barn and raise our replacement heifers. I have also started my own herd of llamas and meat goats.

Montana Krueger, 19

Dairy Star Sponsors: Minnesota Dairy Initiative

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Being a dairy farmer myself, I have the opportunity to share my daily life story with consumers I connect with while being a county dairy princess.

mn-dairy-initiative.org

B&R Dairy Winthrop, MN 507-647-7000

fluence their decision to consume dairy products.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? When grocery shopping, it’s all about what you value and the choices you make. I would share the nutritional value in dairy, how healthy dairy products are and how having one glass of milk gives you 13 essential nutrients your body needs.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I like to lead by example and consume dairy whenever possible. I enjoy a smoothie using real yogurt and milk every morning. I also teach dance part time two days a week and encourage my students to consume dairy products to help prevent sore muscles and recover faster.

Parents: Mike and Jennifer Willegal Gibbon, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a freshman at South Dakota State University in Brookings, South Dakota, where I am majoring in agricultural education with a minor in animal science. I work on Sjostrom Farms out of Lafayette, Minnesota.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have been in various leadership groups and roles since I was 6 years old.

Jessica Willegal, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Farmers work hard to keep their cows happy and healthy. So many people view farmers as bad people, and as a dairy farmer, it is our job to help correct the misconceptions and show how much we care for our animals.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I’m excited to connect with elementary students through school visits and help in-

Parents: Robert and Gina Schuft

Arlington, Minnesota

Maggie Schuft, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

Tell us about yourself. I grew up on a dairy farm where we milked around 50 cows. Growing up, my favorite chore was feeding baby calves. We sold our dairy herd. However, my family owns a few cows from our original herd that are being milked down the road from our farm. I enjoy working with these cows along with showing them at the fair in the summertime. I am a freshman at Rochester Community and Technical College, and next year, I plan to attend the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences to major in radiography.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My experience of growing up on a dairy farm makes me passionate about the dairy community. I enjoy sharing my story and connection to the dairy community. I also like to be approachable, so while attending events, I always have a smile on my face.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The nutritional benefits of cow’s milk over dairy alternatives. There are so many options, and a lot of people may not know the advantages of cow’s milk. We, as dairy princesses, can support the dairy community by promoting cow’s milk and all of its nutritional benefits.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with younger children the most, because this is when people are influenced most. The younger generation learns so much of their information from social media, and it is important to make sure we aim toward them while promoting the dairy community. This way, we can make sure they are being educated correctly and receiving the right information about dairy farms and products.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell a friend they should consider choosing cow’s milk because of its nutritional benefits. I would inform them of the protein, calcium and vitamins that are in cow’s milk naturally.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I took a public speaking class and gave one of my speeches on the importance of consuming dairy products. I spoke about the nutritional benefits of dairy products, along with ways to incorporate them into your diet. I also have a wide variety of dairy in my apartment and enjoy having conversations with those around me about how we can have a healthy lifestyle by consuming more dairy products.

Since then, I have developed public speaking, confidence and a passion for advocacy that helps me strive to fight for agriculture and every aspect of it.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? We should not only share the highlights of dairy farming. We should share everything with consumers, even those tough-to-answer questions. This gives truth to our voice and product. Without sharing all the things about dairy farming, it leaves room for misconceptions and false information to be spread.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to spend time with children. As a child grows closer to adulthood, many have their mind made up about the world around them including what products they want to consume. Introducing a child to the world of dairy can help influence them to try and enjoy dairy, creating a habit that will stick for a lifetime.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? The first ingredient on a carton of milk is the milk itself. The milk I keep in my fridge at college has two ingredients: milk and vitamin D. It shows how milk is the real thing straight from the cows. No added hard-to-read ingredient names that can hide what you are putting into your body.

Yes, many say that milk has more calories, but they are good calories. Milk can fill you up, cool you down and keep your body happy and healthy. So, choose dairy.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? We encourage dairy at our events, teach about the benefits and act upon it ourselves. At the end of the day, our actions make it that much more powerful by showing we really do practice what we preach. When we are enjoying the dairy products, we show how everyone else can too.

Stearns County

Parents: Kevin and Kathy Ratka Cold Spring, Minnesota

Megan Ratka, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Tell us about yourself. I am a sophomore at the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities studying animal science with an emphasis in dairy production. I am involved on campus in the Gopher Dairy Club and the Lambda Delta Phi sorority. My involvement in the dairy community began the summer after first grade when I leased my first calf named Cocoa through 4-H. Since then, my love for dairy has grown immensely, and I became involved in the dairy project through 4-H and FFA. My siblings and I now own eight dairy cattle that we show. I would like to work in a lab doing research on reproductive technologies for dairy cattle.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The two biggest qualities I possess that will make me a good dairy princess are my passion and dedication. I love cows and the dairy industry and am excited to share this with the public. I put my all into

everything I do and am intentional in my commitments to the things I care about.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy is nutritious. Consumers have only become more interested in the production and nutrition of their food. Sharing with them that dairy products contain 13 essential nutrients including protein, calcium and vitamin D will help them see that dairy is an essential part of a diet. It is especially important to highlight the areas where dairy products are more nutritious than alternatives.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The group of people I would like to connect with most is teenagers. It is important to share with them the benefits of consuming dairy products as they begin to make decisions about their diets for themselves. Making an impression on them now can dictate their food choices for the rest of their lives.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? The number of options in the dairy aisle can be overwhelming and confusing. I would tell my friends to consume real dairy products because they are produced responsibly by farmers who take the highest quality care of their land and cattle every single day and are packed with nutrients. It is important to choose options that are exciting and practical. For me, as a college student, this means purchasing yogurt as a snack and including cheese in my meals.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I am the voice of the dairy community. It is my job to share the stories of the hardworking farmers who responsibly produce dairy products. I can do this by interacting with the public, posting on social media and consuming dairy products myself. Ultimately, I am the face consumers will remember when they are picking up milk at the grocery store or enjoying ice cream on a hot summer day.

Parents: Glen and Leslie Ritter Avon, Minnesota

me and my busy schedule and hope to inspire my peers and all people to let dairy do the same for them.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Dairy has 13 essential nutrients including protein, calcium, and vitamins A and K. These help your body stay balanced nutritionally while also having properties that help your digestive and immune systems. Milk is a nutritional powerhouse and is a better option to consume rather than a beverage full of sugar or caffeine. Real milk and dairy products offer so many benefits making dairy incomparable to any other non-dairy options.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I have a glass of milk with almost every meal and make sure to get my three servings of dairy in each day. It’s important to lead by example. My role is being an advocate for dairy foods and dairy farming. I am a communicator who helps bridge the gap between farmers and consumers.

Parents: John and Kristie Schiffler Albany, Minnesota

advocate I can be for the dairy community and help consumers understand the different roles involved.

Parents: David and Cathy Walter Sauk Centre, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I have four siblings: Miles, Forrest, Brooke and Haddie. I live on a retired dairy farm and raise a few dairy show heifers alongside my sister, Haddie. My future plans include attending a four-year college and majoring in animal science.

Lanna

Walter,

17

Dairy Star Sponsor: Centre Dairy Equipment & Supply Sauk Centre, MN

320-352-5762

Sophia Schiffler, 17

Dairy Star Sponsors:

A&C Farm Service

Paynesville, MN

320-243-3736

Hartung Sales & Service Freeport, MN

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess good communication skills and a strong work ethic that are both needed to be a good dairy princess. Communication skills are key as a dairy princess because dairy princesses spend lots of time talking with the public on behalf of the farmers who are busy working. A strong work ethic is also important because nothing in life is easy.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy foods are produced responsibly by all farmers. These farmers have also reduced their carbon footprint and changed their practices to benefit the environment and land.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? It is important to connect with the younger generation, as these children are the future consumers and producers of dairy for years to come.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would definitely tell a friend about chocolate milk. As an athlete, I drink a lot of chocolate milk as a recovery drink and highly recommend it to everyone.

Kalie Ritter, 18 Dairy Star Sponsors: Hartung Sales & Service Freeport, MN

320-863-2697

Lake Henry Implement

320-243-7411

Bork Lumber Paynesville, MN

320-243-7815

Tell us about yourself. I live on a fourth-generation family dairy farm in Avon. We milk about 62 cows, most of those being Red and White Holsteins and Milking Shorthorns. I started showing dairy cattle from our farm in third grade, and this is where my passion and love for dairy cattle and the dairy community was ignited. I am the Albany FFA president and just finished my term as the Albany Southsiders 4-H president. In school, I am involved in trapshooting and am the business manager of the Albany yearbook. Outside of school, I enjoy hunting and fishing, all things outdoors, and spending time with friends and family. Next fall, I will be attend South Dakota State University where I will major in agricultural science to hopefully end up with a career where I get to help farmers achieve their goals.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have strong communication and interpersonal skills which helps me have conversations with consumers. This helps me get the correct message across that I want consumers to receive.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy is responsibly produced. Farmers work hard to make sure their animals are happy, healthy and well cared for in order to ensure they are making the best product possible. Many farms are also working to incorporate more sustainability practices on their farms. This shows that farmers are working to care for the environment by being conscientious of the products being put into the ground and used on their farms.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? It is important that young children and teens know what benefits dairy foods can provide for their bodies as they are developing their lifestyle and eating habits. As a young person, I know that milk fuels

Tell us about yourself. I am the oldest of five kids. I have a younger sister and three younger brothers. I am the current president of the Albany Southsiders 4-H Club. In school, I am involved in FFA, National Honor Society, Letter Club, captains and leaders, soccer, basketball and softball. Some of my hobbies are showing cows, volunteering around the community and playing sports. I live on a 250-cow robotic dairy farm just north of Albany where we have cows, dogs, cats, chickens, ducks and goats. My favorite breed to show is Red and White Holstein. I will be attending the University of St. Thomas this fall and majoring in psychology where I plan to attend medical school after for psychiatry.

320-863-2697

Arnzen St. Rosa Lumber St. Rosa, MN 320-836-2284

Bork Lumber Paynesville, MN 320-243-7815

Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am outgoing and not afraid to reach out to consumers in many different forms. Being so involved helps consumers recognize me as a familiar face, and people would much rather go up to someone who they are familiar with than a stranger so this helps me connect with consumers at events.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Even though food prices may be rising, keeping dairy in your carts is so important. Dairy provides so many health benefits for people of all ages. The 13 essential nutrients dairy holds helps maintain strong bodies and minds. It also allows families to buy locally from farmers around the area.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with kids because the sooner they learn about dairy and the benefits to having it in their diet the more likely they are to continue keeping it in their diets. They are also the most likely to ask questions about dairy foods and how it gets to their tables for them to enjoy.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to make a choice? Real milk and dairy foods provide so many benefits that other options do not provide. The 13 essential nutrients include protein, calcium, vitamin B2, vitamin B3 and many others not provided by other foods. Dairy also promotes brain growth in children and adolescents making it essential for young kids to have.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I try to encourage others to have three servings of dairy a day. However, I also try to keep three servings of dairy a day in my life. I need to lead by example for others to follow. I try to encourage many athletes to drink chocolate milk after an event or practice as it is proven to be the best recovery drink. My role is to be the best

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I play the role of informing the public about the many benefits of dairy product consumption. Farmers are unable to be out in the public to inform people of the many health benefits of their products because they are hard at work. Therefore, as a dairy princess, that is when I come into play to help relay the message.

Parents: Keith and Patty Woitalla Holdingford, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior at Holdingford High School. This is my second year being a Stearns County dairy princess. My father and uncle co-own our family dairy farm, and I help with the day-to-day tasks to help operate the farm. We milk 125 Holsteins in tiestall barns. In total, we have about 550 head of cattle because we raise everything on the farm. I have always tagged along with my dad but took an active part in working on the farm since I was 12. I do all aspects of working with the dairy herd and the associated processes with running a dairy. I am also involved with fieldwork and feed production.

Grace Woitalla, 18

Dairy Star Sponsors:

Hartung Sales & Service

Freeport, MN

320-863-2697

Lake Henry Implement

320-243-7411

Arnzen Construction, Inc.

St. Rosa Lumber Inc.

St. Rosa, MN

320-836-2284

Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

After I graduate, I plan on attending Ridgewater College in Willmar for an associate degree in agribusiness with a crop emphasis.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My experience in public speaking

County continued through leading the Holdingford FFA Chapter as I am the current president. My strength in public speaking has also grown from my participation in proficiency competitions, and the employment skills leadership development event I complete in through FFA. I also participate in the milk quality and products FFA competition, which increases my knowledge about the dairy foods that are available to our communities. I enjoy teaching local people and kids about the dairy community and the nutritious dairy foods that are available, along with spreading the truth of how dairy farms are ethically run. I have a hard-working attitude and a drive to get things done in a correct manner. I have a year of experience being a dairy princess and believe my time in that position has helped gain more knowledge for myself to use in the future. I am able to give my time in spreading knowledge of the dairy community when the farmers are busy doing their chores.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy is responsibly produced. I have seen on my family dairy farm that farmers greatly care for their animals. They provide the best for them whether it be feed, housing or milking equipment. I also have seen in my day-today life that the cows love their jobs and enjoy being milked. All dairy foods are real, fresh, nutritious and responsibly produced.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to be able to connect with kids as a dairy princess. This is because kids are curious and open to learning new things. It’s also important to educate them on why dairy is important to their everyday lives, and then they might inspire their parents to add more dairy to their diets and try new dairy foods. Children also like to learn about how the cows live on the farm and how milk is made. I can use my personal story and background to educate them on how my farm and other local farms operate.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would inform the friend that the dairy community has worked hard to conduct research and make adaptations so that there are more dairy options available. I would have them find their personal preference on milk such as whole, 2%, 1% or skim. I am lactose intolerant, so I would encourage them to try some lactose-free dairy milk.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am an advocate for my local dairy community, and it is my duty to spread the good word of dairy while the farmers are hard at work. I will use my personal experience to help encourage consumers to include the proper amount of dairy foods in their diets. Leading by example is important for encouraging dairy consumption, so I would tell a curious consumer my favorite dairy foods and what dairy foods are safe for me as a lactose-intolerant person. Dairy has been my past and my present, and by being a dairy princess, I want to ensure the future of my local dairy community and dairy for consumers for generations to come.

crops. This zest I have for constantly growing my knowledge of the dairy industry started all because a little girl wanted to see what cow camp was about. I look forward to furthering my education in the reproductive sciences of dairy cattle by pursuing graduate school after receiving my undergraduate degrees.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I can connect and relate with the youth in the community because of my involvement with youth activities such as club/recreation sports, 4-H and church events. Having this strong background with youth allows me to relate my message to a younger audience. A quality I have is patience, which will come in handy when things go array during an event. Thinking on my feet is another trait that will be important to have because we can be asked difficult questions, and being prepared to provide an appropriate answer can be tough.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Climate impact is an important conversation that is being discussed more frequently. However, we don’t hear about all of the new practices that are being applied daily to hundreds of thousands of farms to reduce their carbon footprint. I would like to shed some light and give the farmers a round of applause for their involvement in lowering the environmental impact of dairy farming.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? The youth of my community. These kiddos are the next generation of our community, and I want to ensure they know where their food comes from and who’s producing it. I want to focus on this demographic because you never know who you might inspire to learn more about the dairy industry and pursue a career in agriculture someday.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Milk is one of the best options for a beverage on the market. It provides essential nutrients for our bodies that most drinks cannot achieve and tastes delicious. Whether skim milk or whole milk, this product has a better nutritional component than any other alternative.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? We play a critical role in encouraging the consumption of dairy products, especially because it promotes a healthy lifestyle. Whenever I’m at an engagement, we will provide a dairy product, and I will select milk over other beverage options. These little things go far when in the eye of the public because you’re practicing what you preach.

Parents: Tim and Stacy Nelson Owatonna, Minnesota

Steele County

Parents: Scott Fredin and Julie Evers Owatonna, Minnesota

Samantha Fredin, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN

952-277-5500

Tell us about yourself. I’m a junior double majoring in dairy science and genetics at Iowa State University. I was involved with 4-H, breeders associations and community events. I have carried this involvement throughout college. Most recently, I’ve joined Dairy Challenge, where we get to apply our classroom knowledge on farms. To expand this knowledge, I’ve worked on an undergraduate research team that has kept me excited to learn about the newest innovation within the industry. Returning to the farm, I started to find my passion for dairy; you’d find dairy cattle, swine, beef cattle, some chickens and cash

given me more knowledge and input on how to interact with others. I have worked with kids in Cow Camp which has given me experience working with younger kids, know their attention spans and similar interests.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy is extremely important in healthy bodies, both mentally and physically. Dairy products promote weight loss, help with stress, and improve joint and muscle strength, all while providing 13 nutrients. Make sure you consume dairy in some capacity every day.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with the younger generation. This is primarily because they are at the age where they are learning every day. The best time to teach or talk to people about dairy is when they are in the younger age range. They adore the hands-on learning and are able to take in most of the information shared and share it with their parents when they get home from school that day with so much excitement.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice?

Personally, I am lactose intolerant, so my go-to milk is Fairlife. Many people go to other alternatives like almond milk or soy milk when they have a lactose allergy. Dairy alternatives are unable to provide all the nutrients available in milk in the same quantity but also quality. Fairlife is a great alternative to your normal 1% or 2% milk, especially if you have an allergy, which will still provide you with valuable nutrients.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Many consumers tend to listen to faces of the industry, but most importantly kids play a role. Through doing many classroom and day care visits, talking to younger generations about the health benefits can have a huge impact, because they later go home and share what they learned with their family members. This past year, I took a speech class and constantly found ways to incorporate different aspects of dairy.

Todd County

Parents: Mark and Jessica Berscheit Grey Eagle, Minnesota

Afton Nelson, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Laura Seljan Photography 507-250-2217 lauraseljanphotography.com

Tell us about yourself. I have been involved in 4-H for the last eight years in which I have shown dairy cattle, beef cattle and goats. I have also been involved in FFA for the past six years, doing numerous competitions, some of which led me to win state and compete at national convention. I have been an ambassador for dairy in numerous ways. I served as a Minnesota state Brown Swiss ambassador, which allowed me to have many opportunities within the Brown Swiss breed. Through my time in 4-H, I have also been working with Clover Glen Farms, where I house my Brown Swiss herd and assist with Cow Camp every year. I hope to continue my education and later become a large animal veterinarian, where I would like to specialize in surgery.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am easy to approach, have leader qualities and also enjoy talking, especially about cattle and dairy. I have held various leadership roles throughout my time in FFA and 4-H, which have

Tell us about yourself. I live and help on my parents’ farm. My plans for the future are to own my own dairy farm and barrel race and teach kids to how ride horse.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a dairy background, and I am nice, kind and helpful. I also enjoy helping on the farm and being around the animals.

Dannielle Berscheit, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy products are very healthy and good for a person’s body. They also taste good.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Age does not matter. It is interesting to young kids, and teenagers can help on a dairy farm. For the elderly, it often brings back memories.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? All real dairy products are good because they are made by God, and it is really good for your body. There are so many nutrients in all the real dairy products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Dairy products help people get the calcium, vitamin D, potassium and all the other nutrients we need.

Parents: Jary and Celene Holst Kellogg, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I live and work on my family’s farm. We milk 150 cows consisting of Holstein, Brown Swiss and Jersey cows. I have had numerous chores from milking cows, mixing feed, bedding barns to hauling in chopper boxes. But quite often, I find myself in the calf barn. I feed calves twice a day, before and after school, along with helping mix feed. My future plans are to attend South Dakota State University to double major in animal science and pre-law, and minor in ag law.

Beth Holst, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Story Sales & Service Faribault, MN 800-491-3724

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I know the dairy community and what they value. Growing up on a dairy farm and being part of the day-to-day actions, I know what a farmer wants to hear and what they want to say. With having this advantage, this allows me to speak to the people to help share the farmers’ story.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to the dairy world is how serious we take sanitation. It is important to show consumers the different procedures farmers have to take in order to sell their milk to the co-op. Not only would this show those who do not think that farmers keep their animals and barns clean, but it would also demonstrate how much dairy farmers care for those who are consuming their dairy products.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I hope to be able to connect with the current generation of dairy farmers. Being able to talk and hear what those who are currently farming have to say will only help me know what they want to expect in their community. This will also be a connection that helps me show today’s consumers where their dairy products come from.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I will always say to choose milk, not only because of all of it nutritious ingredients and health benefits but because of all the farmers it will support. Having grown up on a farm and in a small town, I know how important it is to support local businesses. Just as any store in town, farmers are also your local businesses. They rely on you buying their dairy products in order to make a living. If you choose not to have a cold glass of milk for breakfast, try to add extra cheese to your pizza or make a smoothie with yogurt.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Not only am I a dairy princess, but I am also an athlete. Being part of both worlds, I have learned how one can affect the other. On the volleyball team, we made sure that each player got a cold bottle of either chocolate or white milk after each game to help get back as much nutrition that was used while playing. Not only did we provide milk, but we also provided yogurt as a quick snack to boost our energy right before practice.

Parents: Chad and Amy Schumacher Millville, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I grew up on my farm located in Plainview, Minnesota. I am a senior in high school right now, and I do not know what my plans are after school.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very loud and outgoing so you’ll always be hearing me talk about dairy.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Animal well-being and care is the top priority in any production animal facility. Dairy farmers work hard to ensure that every animal receives the best treatment.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? An important key is to get younger children involved in dairy. Increasing numbers of children who get involved in the dairy community would be better for the dairy industry.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Personally, real milk from a cow is the best milk you could drink. It gives you all the nutrients you need for you to grow up big and strong.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I represent dairy farmers and attend numerous events with the goal of connecting with consumers.

Parents: Ken and Julie Eichhorn Wells, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a first-year student in the dental assisting program at South Central College in North Mankato, Minnesota. I live about a mile from my grandma Audrey and my late grandpa Eugene Groskreutz’s farm. This is where my uncle Terry Groskreutz milks about 30 Holstein cows and where I help. My favorite thing is to be around newborn calves. I am a 2022 graduate of Maple River High School. While in high school, I was active in FFA, competitive dance and was a track and field manager.

McKenna Eichhorn, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood Young America, MN 952-277-5500

Ashlyn Schumacher,18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

Parents: Brent and Tricia Stelling Millville, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I grew up and live on my family’s dairy farm where we milk 275 registered Holsteins. My jobs on the farm consist of feeding calves, milking cows, fieldwork and whatever my dad needs help with. My love for farming has led me to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to major in dairy science and minor in ag business. I plan to use my degree by coming back to the family farm and running the farm with my dad.

Sophie Stelling, 17

Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Machinery Co. mmcjd.com

KBS Plainview, MN 507-534-3855

Peoples State Bank Plainview, MN 800-252-3137

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Promoting the dairy community is one of my favorite things to do. Everyone deserves to know about where their dairy products come from. I am good at talking to kids and people, connecting with them to give them the picture of farming.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? These real products are important to consume. They will make your bones much stronger. There are no preservatives in these products.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I like connecting with little kids because they are the future of this community. Educating them with the correct facts about dairy will set them up for a more knowledgeable future.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friends that the nutritional value in dairy alternatives aren’t as beneficial compared to consuming real milk. In products like almond milk, it is mainly water. Real milk contains amazing nutrients like calcium.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? A lot of people do not like to consume dairy because it is high calorie or has a high fat percentage. However, you can consume dairy and still live a healthy lifestyle. There are fat-free dairy products to enjoy. Also, eating and drinking dairy in moderation will allow you to obtain a healthy lifestyle. The consumption of dairy products is a healthier lifestyle than consuming food filled with preservatives.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I would make a good dairy princess because of my dedication to the dairy industry. I want to represent the farmers who work countless hours every day to produce for our world and have so much respect toward them. I am an outgoing individual and look forward to talking to others in my community along with listening to what they have to say.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? How important dairy is for a healthy, strong body. We also need to support our small dairy farmers by consuming dairy products.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to educate the youth about the dairy industry. Many children have never been on a farm and don’t realize how much work goes into producing dairy and how it gets from the farm to the table.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would explain to them that they should choose whichever option benefits them through nutrition but also benefits the farmer who produced the dairy product. It is important to acknowledge how much work is being put into producing these products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role as dairy princess would be to educate and promote the dairy industry to people of all ages on how dairy is full of protein and calcium that a body needs. People need dairy to grow strong teeth and bones, and the elderly need dairy to prevent osteoporosis. Everyone benefits from dairy. Dairy is a win-win.

Parents: Brad and Crystal Bartelt Waseca, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I wasn’t raised on a farm, but I often visited my uncle’s dairy farm. I used to pick rock and do other odds and ends if they needed help getting something moved. I lease the animals I show from him. The farm has always been a happy place for me. I love the animals, the people and of course the country fair. I plan to attend South Dakota State University for animal science and veterinary. After my first six years, I will transfer to Iowa State University to finish my last two years of vet school.

Maia Bartelt, 17

Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries

Norwood-Young America, MN 952-277-5500

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a lover of all dairy products and a very frequent user. I am determined to promote the dairy industry and help it grow. I’ve seen what happens

if a farm goes under, and it’s not a good thing. I want to try and help these smaller dairies stay in business. I will always listen to anyone with an idea or opinion.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? My message to all consumers is to consume more dairy. It’s good for you, and we need to support our friends and family. You can do a lot of things with dairy products.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to be out meeting new people and teaching them about dairy. It’s important for adults to know about dairy, but I want to connect with children. This way they can take up dairy young and keep passing it on. The most important thing is that I’m out and talking to people.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? My friends and family should use real dairy products. They are the best option out of all the alternatives. They are healthier and offer more nutrients for you to stay healthy.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I consume dairy every single day, and if I’m a good role model, people will follow in my footsteps and consume more dairy. I want children to look up to me and follow my good habits. Children will look up to almost anyone, and it’s critical to be good for them.

Winona County

Parents:

Randy and Minnie Ward St. Charles, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am a senior in high school, an aunt to three wonderful little kids and an active member in my community. My home farm custom raises dairy calves for Prestrud Dairy, and dairy steers from my older sister’s farm. My future plans are to attend Washington State University in the upcoming fall semester majoring in economic sciences.

Riley Ward, 18

Dairy Star Sponsors: Lang’s Dairy Equipment

Lewiston, MN 507-452-5532

Minnesota Dairy Initiative mn-dairy-initiative.org

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have strong public speaking skills, exemplary leadership qualities, the ability to accept and utilize constructive criticism, and above all the ability to address the public in a kind and educational manner. It is important for dairy princesses to hold themselves to the standard they would expect of both a role model for youth and an extension of the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The alternative milks, such as almond, soy and various other juices advertised as milk, lack the necessary vitamins and nutrients that are received through milk. This is extremely important to note when considering that most individuals who transition to alternative milks are hoping to achieve a healthier lifestyle or are lactose intolerant. However, lactose intolerance does not mean that an individual cannot consume dairy; rather, they need a particular variant of dairy products such as A2 milk, goat milk or products that are easier to digest like yogurt.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? Although I would love to work with youth as they are the future of tomorrow, the best demographic to reach is parents and other supportive adults such as coaches and teachers. Not only do these groups of people shape the mind of the young individuals they surround themselves with, but in most cases, they inform them on healthy living or make healthy living decisions for them. Parents of growing youth deserve to know the importance of milk for their young ones, and coaches and teachers should be aware of the positive impacts milk gives athletes and youth.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? My close friends are all aware that they should always pick authentic dairy products versus alternatives. There are a multitude of reasons behind this, but the most important

is that authentic dairy products contain a surplus of calcium aiding in the health of your bones. This is especially important as our bodies stop depositing calcium in our mid- to late 20s. Additionally, in Minnesota and other northern states, it is important to drink milk as the sun is not shining as frequently which can cause a vitamin D deficiency.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I play an active role in encouraging the consumption of dairy products in order to achieve a healthy lifestyle.

Wright County

Parents: Brian and Theresa Beaudry Otsego, Minnesota

Tell us about yourself. I am the fourth generation on my family’s dairy farm where we milk 65 Holstein cows. I enjoy working on the farm which includes many jobs like milking, feeding, picking rocks, cleaning equipment and most importantly taking care of our cows. When I am not on the farm, you can find me at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where I am pursuing a degree in agricultural business and researching the profitability of automatic milking systems. I hope to work for an agri-business company that helps farmers bring new ideas and innovations to their dairy farms.

Jalyssa Beaudry, 20

Dairy Star Sponsors: Munson Lakes Nutrition Howard Lake, MN 320-543-2561

Hobert Sales Cokato, MN 320-286-6284

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? A dairy princess has a great responsibility of being a bridge between consumers and farmers. I possess the qualities of passion, dedication and communication which will aid me in closing the gaps between farmers and consumers about the products we produce and the challenges we face.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Dairy farmers are working hard every day to become more sustainable. The carbon footprint of a glass of milk is two-thirds less than it was 70 years ago, yet it has the same nutritional benefits and great taste. One of the ways my farm has become more sustainable is by reusing our water. The system we have is set up through a plate cooler where the milk that comes from the cow is cooled by cold water on one side of a plate and milk is on the other. The water that was then used for the plate cooler goes out to the cow’s drinking cups for them to consume. This reduces the amount of water waste on our farm and helps us to be sustainable. My goal in sharing these facts and my farm’s story is to help consumers understand dairy farmers have a commitment to environmental care and producing sustainably.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I enjoy connecting with families. The kids are enthusiastic which leads to great questions, and I love teaching the parents about the nutritional importance of incorporating dairy into their children’s diets.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell my friend to look at the ingredient list to see what is being added into the milk you buy. Cow’s milk has a shorter ingredient list than plant-based. Many non-dairy milk options have 10 or more added ingredients. Cow’s milk naturally provides 13 essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. These are important nutrients to incorporate into your diet, because they are three of the four nutrients many Americans are often are lacking in their diets

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I advocate for the consumption of dairy by using my life as an example. I start my morning off with yogurt whether it be in a smoothie or just a plain on-thego type. It’s a remarkable source of protein to help get you through the day, and it’s great for your gut health.

Around lunch time, I fill up with milk and almost always have some form of cheese, whether it be on a sandwich, slice of pizza or on top of a salad. By explaining the different ways I consume dairy foods, it may get them thinking about how they can enjoy these delicious dairy foods in their own life.

Parents: Karl Hills and Nicole Hills Monticello, Minnesota

Katherine Hills, 20

Dairy Star Sponsor: Munson Lakes Nutrition Howard Lake 320-543-2561

Tell us about yourself. I am a sophomore at the University of Minnesota-Crookston, where I double major in animal science and equine science, both with a pre-vet emphasis. At school, I enjoy participating in multiple clubs on campus and particularly enjoy country swing and line dancing. As a dairy princess, I represent Glessing Family Farm, which is owned by my grandparents and uncle and aunt in Howard Lake, Minnesota. There, approximately 75 head of Holsteins and Ayrshires are milked in a tiestall barn. I have leased animals since I was 13 and generally feed calves and heifers during chores. After I graduate, I either want to go on to vet school or pursue something with cattle reproduction.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? A passion for the dairy industry as well as a willingness to talk and listen are great qualities of a dairy princess, and I possess those qualities. In addition, I am able to explain things to a wide variety of audiences. I also love to go and meet new people.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The versatility of dairy foods. Whey is great for making cheese and for pre-workout. Milk is sold in a variety of ways and can be enjoyed however each person desires to. Cheese can be used for nachos or with crackers and meat. Yogurt is a great, on-the-go snack that can be frozen for a cool summer treat.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would love to connect with college students. As one myself, I don’t see dairy foods included in meals as often as other food groups in each meal. The vitamins in dairy products are beneficial for our bodies, and given that college students aren’t known for their healthy eating habits, incorporating dairy into meals would be great for maintaining healthy diets.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Since everyone’s palette is different, choosing something out of the variety of dairy options would depend on what they’re hungry for. Looking for something to keep you full longer? Try some cheese that has a good dose of protein. Want a snack? Try some yogurt. Thirsty? Chocolate milk, of course. And if they’re looking to satisfy their sweet tooth, ice cream is definitely the way to go.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? College students aren’t well known for healthy lifestyles overall, and meals are included in that. On my campus, I was known for having two Pop-Tarts on my way to class. I would be eating them as I was walking, but I realized they didn’t have great nutrients and weren’t keeping me full until lunch time. I started to buy the 36 packs of cheese sticks at Walmart and had two on my way to class every morning which kept me full until lunch. My friend in my first class would see I had my cheese stick and smile every morning. By modeling a healthy lifestyle and educating those around me on the health benefits of dairy, I hope to encourage others to eat more dairy and make healthier choices.

Wright County continued on next page

Tell us about yourself. I come from a sixth-generation dairy farm and work at Goldview Farms and G & K Family Farm, both of Waverly, Minnesota. I milk cows and help with calf chores when I am home from college and assist with other chores. I am a 14-year member of Wright County 4-H and have served in club, county and state roles including federation president and Minnesota 4-H ambassador. I attend South Dakota State University and am pursuing degrees in agriculture business and entrepreneurial studies and a minor in land valuation and real estate. I plan to work as a credit and loan analyst with a goal to become a financial loan officer and land appraiser. I am involved in SDSU Dairy Club and serve as a sponsorship and award chair for Jackrabbit Dairy Camp. Other clubs include Jacks for Life, Country Swing Dance and Finance Investment & Real Estate Club.

Natalie Neumann, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor:

Lang’s Dairy Equipment

Lewiston, MN

507-452-5532

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a passion for the dairy community and have seen the care farmers put in to the goals they accomplish on the farm. I continue to learn from farmers’ and consumers’ expectations every day. Whatever the goal may be, like Goldview Farms putting up a new calf barn or simply hosting breakfast on the farm, farmers want consumers to understand what the operations on the farm look like and how they benefit society.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? Farmers care. Care comes in many forms on the farm, from the land and environment to calf and cow care. On Goldview Farms, calves are fed twice a day with vitamin and mineral packed milk. Secondly, land care includes ensuring sustainable practices like recycling manure on fields, which is used to provide nutrients for crops grown for feedstuffs for the cows on the farm. Finally, many farms recycle water up to three times. Used to cool down the milk from parlor to tank, water infused plate coolers are installed because milk comes out around 98 degrees, and this cooling equipment ensures quality milk. After milking is complete, the water is used to wash down the parlor and then is taken to the field to help with crop growth. In all these aspects of land, environment and animal care, farmers care.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I would like to connect with middle school students because that is when kids are starting to make their own choices when it comes to nutrition. Providing information about delicious and nutritious dairy products can help them with their overall lifestyle.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? Dairy is always coming up with many options. However, nothing beats the true nutritional value of dairy products. Dairy products, such as milk, contain 13 essential nutrients like calcium and protein which aid in muscle and bone growth. Many of the dairy alternatives have to add these nutrients or do not contain as many in a serving size like dairy incorporates overall.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I can share my passion for the dairy community by networking with consumers at community events such as parades, library reading and breakfast on the farm. The main role is for consumers to choose what is right for their lifestyle and benefit from the products whether it is cheese, yogurt or milk.

Some were even interested in pursuing agriculture degrees in college.

Rynda has attended a variety of events. She began her reign at the Minnesota State Fair, which included a myriad of conversations around the butter booth, sometimes with a line of people waiting to talk with the new dairy royalty. After the state fair, she appeared at onfarm events, banquets, parades and, of course, classroom visits.

“For 365 days a year, our farmers are caring for their cows, and they’re caring for their land,” Rynda said. “That’s their job and that’s what they love to do. But not everyone … has the time to also be able to share that with the public. As Princess Kay, that’s my job.”

Already, Rynda is scheduled for more events, including breakfasts on the farm and a Minnesota Vikings field day.

Rynda is eager to represent dairy farmers.

“The biggest thing for me is … I’ve been 100% willing this whole year,” she said.

Rynda’s dedication extends past her required duties. She often takes the extra time to make sure she has made an impact. Her advice to other girls is what she herself has been doing: sharing her story and getting out of her comfort zone.

“If there’s something in your life you really want, or you know that you’re passionate about, go ham at it,” she said.

“If there’s something in your life you really want, or you know that you’re passionate about, go ham at it.”

RACHEL RYNDA, PRINCESS KAY

about it.”

Tell us about yourself. I have been showing dairy cattle in 4-H since 2015. I lease my animals from New-Vue Ayrshires in Maple Lake, Minnesota. The farm also houses one of my own cows. I have been working there since 2019 doing chores from milking to feeding. I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities studying animal science with a pre-vet emphasis. After undergraduate school, I plan to go to veterinarian school.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Passionate, kindness and adaptability. To be a dairy ambassador or princess, you must have passion for the industry itself. You should be kind in the way you deliver your message. You should also be able to adapt to things that can change in the industry to keep your message as up to date as possible.

Kieya Sargent, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor:

Lang’s Dairy Equipment

Lewiston, MN

507-452-5532

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers? The importance of dairy in your diet. Especially with different products out there such as almond milk, it’s important to deliver the right message of why dairy products are so important.

Which key demographic do you want to connect with as a dairy princess? I want to connect with those in elementary and middle school. It is important to get any message across to those who are younger. That way, they can learn young.

With so many options in the dairy case, what would you tell a friend to help make a choice? I would tell them about the benefits of consuming dairy and why it’s beneficial. We should not degrade the alternatives as some people can’t have dairy, but if you are able to, you should know the benefits.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Being a dairy princess, we have a significant role in the encouragement of consumption, especially for young kids as they tend to look up to us. We also have platforms to be able to spread the word and get the message across the board.

Rynda wants her connections as Princess Kay to impact beyond the moment of interaction. At school visits, she challenges children to pass on what they have absorbed.

“I always say, ‘Hey, now it’s your job,’” she said. “‘You have to tell somebody at home tonight what you learned,’ and they’re all so excited

Rynda plans to extend the impact of wearing the crown past her time as Princess Kay of the Milky Way.

“After I’m done with this, it’s not going to end,” she said. “Your story continues no matter where you are, and to be able to build who you are as a person does not stop.”

Parent: Amy Schermer Maple Lake, Minnesota

Parents: Bill and Renae Neumann Buffalo, Minnesota

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Princess Kay Rachel Rynda smiles beside her bu ery likeness Aug. 26, 2022, at the Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights, Minnesota. Rynda began her reign at the Minnesota State Fair, o en spending me outside the bu er booth having conversa ons with fair goers.

Princess Kay Rachel Rynda teaches about dairy during a classroom visit. Rynda said she enjoyed school visits because the kids are eager to learn.