Michigan Milk Messenger: September 2017 by Michigan Milk Producers Association

Michigan 2015 Milk

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F M I C H I G A N M I L K P R O D U C E R S A S S O C I AT I O N

VOL. 100 | ISSUE 3 | SEPTEMBEER 2017

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SEPTEMBER 2017 FEATURES

14 | MICHIGAN DAIRY EXPO

On the Cover Dairy cases at the Kroger stores in Michigan prominently feature fresh milk originating on MMPA farms. Learn more

YEARS WITH KROGER’S 16 | 50 MICHIGAN DAIRY

about MMPA’s partnership with Kroger and how it has spanned for half of MMPA’s century-long history on page 16.

The Michigan Dairy Expo, the largest annual dairy event in the state, includes Michigan Dairy Days—the youth centered portion as well as a dairy consumer education day and a sale to raise money for scholarships.

In March, MMPA honored the Kroger Co. of Michigan with a Valued Partner award. Now the company’s dairy plant is turning 50 years old and celebrating its time serving customers and supporting local communities.

24 | THE POWER OF INFLUENCE

Influence and communication are the keys to the dairy promotional work of United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) as they communicate with consumers on several platforms using funding from Michigan dairy producers.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 2,000 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

“WE

KEEP ADDING SERVICES, AND YOU KEEP ADDING TO YOUR OUTPUT. I DON’T THINK THAT’S A COINCIDENCE.”

Gaylen Guyer DuPont Pioneer Dairy Account Manager

Chad Erickson Pioneer Sales Professional

The Silage Zone® resource combines proven products, unmatched support and forage management solutions to help you achieve success. See more at pioneer.com/silagestories.

PIONEER® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of DuPont, Pioneer or their respective owners. © 2017 PHII. DUPPFO17035_VAR1_090117_MMM

Ken Hein Dairy Producer Vince Tichy Encirca Certiﬁed Services Agent

CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“The OYDC program opens doors for us to take on leadership because we can learn more about the operations the co-op completes and also meet other leaders, staff and members from around the state.”

Vote “yes” to keep your dairy promotion dollars in Michigan

QUALITY WATCH Maintaining hauler relationships to accomplish great quality and trust

— GARRETT BARTHOLOMEW, SCOTTS, MI (P. 20)

NEWS & VIEWS

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

9TH ANNUAL MICHIGAN LIVESTOCK EXPO SALE-ABRATION

30 MERCHANDISE

MMPA OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATOR CONFERENCE

32 FREELINERS

20 28

DEPARTMENTS 29

Quality

Integrity

Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt Editor..................................................................Allison Stuby Miller Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation......................................................................................2,707 An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D Michigan Milk Messenger (USPS 345-320) is the official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association, published monthly since June 1919. Subscriptions: MMPA members, 50¢ per year; non-members, $5 per year.

QUALITY PREMIUMS

33 CLASSIFIEDS 34

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK: CONQUER WITH MILK

MMPA Core Values:

POLICIES

MARKET REPORT

35 STAFF

Progress

Leadership

41310 Bridge Street P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002

Community

p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924 w: mimilk.com

Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. (ISSN 0026-2315)

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

MMPA MATTERS

Vote “yes” to keep your dairy promotion dollars in Michigan BY KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT

2017 is not an election year, but dairy producers will be asked to cast a ballot for nonpolitical purposes. We are asking you to vote “yes” to continue the Michigan dairy checkoff. The vote does not cost you anything, and a favorable result allows Michigan dairy farmers to direct 10 of the 15 cents mandated by federal law toward promotional dairy programs that are most effective in our market area.

A “yes” vote doesn’t increase the deduction for the dairy checkoff. The Dairy and Tobacco Adjustment Act of 1983 (federal legislation) mandates that every dairy producer in the United States must contribute 15 cents per hundredweight of milk sold to fund dairy promotion and research. A “yes” vote then allows for 10 of the 15 cents collected in Michigan to stay in Michigan. The program is known officially as the Michigan Dairy Market Program. It operates under Michigan Public Act 232 of 1965, the Agricultural Commodities Marketing Act. The guidelines for operation of the fund are spelled out in that statute. One requirement is that a referendum be held every five years, and 2017 is the fifth year of the cycle. A Michigan Dairy Market Program Committee is also required, with the 13 members to be selected by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate. Committee members must be dairy producers, and they serve for three-year terms. For each open seat, at least two nominees must be presented to the Governor, and the Governor then picks one of the nominees presented. The United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) has been selected by the Michigan Dairy Market Program Committee to develop and carry out programming, although the Committee retains budgetary control over those programs. The goal of UDIM is to build demand for dairy products by providing promotion and nutrition education. The staff of UDIM has gone about its duties quietly and efficiently for many years. While the goal has not changed over the years, the path taken to reach it has been adjusted as society has changed along the way. For example, UDIM has increased the focus on dairy image as consumers have become more distanced from production agriculture. It has provided media training to producers, veterinarians, dietitians, health care professionals, and others to help them effectively present the truth when activists present falsehoods about animal care, farm life, the nutritional profile of dairy foods, and many more issues. UDIM handles many other activities and responsibilities as well. For example, UDIM is a leader in school health initiatives and helps to develop food standards and practices. As a member of the Dairy Market Program Committee, I have had the opportunity to witness firsthand how UDIM operates in many arenas. Take a look at www.milkmeansmore.org, or call me or any MMPA board member or staff member for more information about the value that is added to our product by this responsible organization. Keep an eye open when your mail carrier comes around next month. The ballots will be mailed by Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) on September 29. The return envelope must be postmarked no later than October 13. For a successful result, we need more than 50 percent of the ballots returned with a “yes” vote, plus the “yes” votes must make up greater than 50 percent of the volume of milk represented in the returned ballots. Please be sure to fill out your ballot, and mail it. Your vote counts!

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

QUALITY WATCH

Maintaining Hauler Relationships to Accomplish Great Quality and Trust BY KRISTA SCHROCK, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE

Dedication and work ethic is something that milk haulers and dairy farmers share. Both have many responsibilities to ensure a high quality and safe product to deliver to the dairy plants. Proper sampling technique and handling is crucial to your milk quality and your bottom line. The samples taken from the bulk tank or through the drip sampler are designed to tell the story on the volume and quality of milk sold from that vessel whether it be a bulk tank or tanker. If samples are not taken and handled properly, the results could be skewed and result in inaccurate quality and components for the farm.

“The best part of my job is being treated as part of the family,” said 50-year milk hauler Pat Tuckerman of Pittsford, Michigan. “A lot has changed over the years for us, but I still love talking with farmers as milk is going on the truck!”

What qualifies a person to obtain this responsibility? Milk samplers must be licensed by the state in which they pick up milk. According to the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO), milk samplers must attend training, pass a written test and perform an in-person evaluation demonstrating an understanding of proper sampling and milk handling. This is all evaluated by the state regulatory agency. Upon passing the tests and attending training, milk samplers hold their license for two years until needing to renew. Proper sampling technique includes using an adequately sanitized dipper (or properly enclosed drip sampler) to obtain a representative sample of milk, properly agitating the milk in accordance to vessel size, maintaining samples in a foam rack within an ice bath cooler and properly filling out manifests and labeling milk samples. Haulers play a vital role in our industry. Getting milk to market can certainly have its challenges for the hauler with much of their day spent on the road dealing with traffic, equipment breakdowns, inclement weather and unloading at the dairies. Having a good working relationship with your hauler can make those days where nothing seems to go smoothly a little easier. “The best part of my job is being treated as part of the family,” said 50-year milk hauler Pat Tuckerman of Pittsford, Michigan. “A lot has changed over the years for us, but I still love talking with farmers as milk is going on the truck!” Just like dairy farmers, milk haulers have long days. I talked to route owner Josh Salisbury, who noted ways to make the job a little easier for haulers. “Having driveways cleared of equipment and snow when we are expected as well as having trees trimmed is very appreciated so we can get your milk pumped on the truck and on our way to the next farm,” said Salisbury. “Making our appointment times at the dairy plants is very important for us, especially now with the surplus of milk in Michigan. As a fourth-generation milk hauler, I am proud to haul milk for my farms. I appreciate the quality and dedication that they bring to the dairy industry.” Farmers and haulers rely on one another to provide dairy products to consumers. It is important to work together and understand the dedication it takes to work in the dairy industry when challenges like fuel prices rise or milk prices drop. Next time you see your hauler, thank them for the great job that they are doing!

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

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NEWS & VIEWS Producers Scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings Steven Hochstetler Graber Dairy Marvin Hochstetler* Ivan Mast Roy Yoder Ladine Farms Richard Miller Gary Fifelski * Rolling Acres Dairy Farm LLC Melview Farms LLC Daybreak Dairy LLC* Seth Ponstein Nienhuis Dairy Farm LLC William / Robert Gruppen* John / Philip Kuyers Woodbridge Dairy Farm LLC Mark Hilaski Joel / Samuel Brubaker * Riverview Dairy LLC

*100

July Prices Down from June The USDA announced last week that the July Class III milk price was $15.45 per hundredweight, down 99 cents from June's price, but 21 cents above July 2016. The Class IV price, at $16.60, was 71 cents more than June’s price, and $1.76 higher than July of last year.

Correction: Hauler Service Awards In the August issue of the Michigan Milk Messenger, a list of hauler service awards was published. The following names were incorrectly listed: Pat Tuckerman (50 years), Mike C. McCarty (50 years), Bruce Carpenter (25 years), Brian Hector (25 years), Nicholas Donajkowski (15 years) and Charles Wadsworth Jr. (15 years). We apologize for the errors and are thankful to all haulers for their years of service to MMPA members.

MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Launches Public Awareness Campaign: “Food @ MSU. Our Table” Food is the centerpiece of a new Michigan State University (MSU) public awareness campaign led by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. A major goal of “Food @ MSU. Our Table” is to provide knowledge so that consumers can make better informed decisions about their food and their health, said Ronald Hendrick, dean of the CANR. The campaign is rooted in communication. “As the value of science continues to be questioned in many political circles, we realize the need for MSU and other institutes of higher education to be more engaged with the public about how their research and work impacts important issues like food security, food safety and hunger,” Hendrick said. A key component of the campaign will be a series of community roundtable discussions centered on specific food topics. Scientists, farmers, consumers, policymakers and others will be invited. “This isn’t about academics speaking scientific jargon, it’s about engaging in meaningful dialogue and providing practical, viable answers that are easy to comprehend,” Hendrick said. Launched this spring, the initiative also includes a new website – food.msu.edu – and a Facebook presence. Both communication vehicles will spotlight stories and a question–and-answer blog, “Food for Thought.” The initiative comes at a time when six out of nine consumers cite that their life issues of most concern are related to the food system, according to research conducted in 2016 by the Center for Food Integrity. That same research also revealed that 80 percent want to know more about where their food is produced but lack any direct connection to agriculture. More and more consumers are also crowdsourcing information – that is, accessing information from many sources, particularly non-expert websites and/or social media outlets. “MSU knows food,” Hendrick said. “It harkens back to why the university was founded, and where we are headed in the future.”

Upcoming Events September 27 Advisory Committee Meeting October 1-7 National 4-H Dairy Conference & World Dairy Expo, Madison, WI

October 30-November 1 NBD/NMPF/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting, Anaheim, CA

www.food.msu.edu www.facebook.com/ FoodAtMSU/

Member Merchandise Catalog Use your new member merchandise catalog to order products from the merchandise program! The catalog contains all the products we currently stock at the merchandise warehouse. By using the merchandise program, you can not only take advantage of our quality products but also share in the patronage that results in any profits the program achieves. If you have questions, please contact Duane Farmer, merchandise supervisor, at 1-877-367-6455.

MSU Seeks 2018 Dairy Farmer of the Year Nominations Nominations for the 2018 Michigan State University (MSU) Dairy Farmer of the Year Award are currently being accepted by the MSU Department of Animal Science. The MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Animal Science Department to individuals in the dairy industry. Award nominees may be individuals, partnerships or multi-generation family partnerships. A team made up of faculty members and MSU Extension educators select the honoree on the basis of commitment to their operation and contributions to the dairy industry. The 2018 award will be presented at the Michigan Dairy Industry Awards Banquet on Feb. 9 at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference in Mt. Pleasant. Nomination forms for the MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year Award are available at the MSU Animal Science website awards section. Nominations can be submitted by producers, family members, professionals, agribusiness firms or other individuals.

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The deadline to submit nominations is Nov. 1.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

MMPA President Highlights Concerns with Dairy Safety Net in Senate Farm Bill Hearing CONGRESS MUST REVISE THE DAIRY SAFETY NET PROGRAM ESTABLISHED IN THE 2014 FARM BILL TO PROVIDE FARMERS WITH EFFECTIVE RISK MANAGEMENT PROTECTION THAT WILL INCREASE PARTICIPATION IN THE PROGRAM, ACCORDING TO KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT OF THE MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION (MMPA) AND FIRST VICE-CHAIR OF THE NATIONAL MILK PRODUCERS FEDERATION (NMPF), WHO SPOKE AT A 2018 FARM BILL HEARING IN LATE JULY.

Nobis testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee that while he believes the dairy Margin Protection Program (MPP) remains the right program for the dairy industry, “the changes Congress made to the MPP when writing the last Farm Bill rendered it ineffective when dairy farmers needed it the most.” He testified on behalf of MMPA and NMPF. His full testimony can be found online at nmpf.org. In calendar year 2015, dairy farmers paid more than $70 million into the MPP and received payments totaling just $730,000. In 2016, those figures were $20 million and $13 million. Nobis said farmers found that the program was not helpful during two years that were particularly detrimental to the dairy industry. As a result, many of them have become disenchanted with the program, and participation has dwindled.

“I guarantee, if Congress alters the MPP so that it more accurately reflects the actual costs of production for businesses like mine, participation in the program will increase,” he told Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow (D-MI). In making his case for improving the MPP, Nobis detailed a list of proposed changes NMPF and its members had developed to improve it. The MPP is designed to help farmers insure against either low milk prices or high feed costs, Nobis said, but the determination of the feed price used in the margin calculation is problematic. During the farm bill process, NMPF’s original proposed feed formula, though considered accurate, was cut by 10 percent to address other budget concerns. Based on the government profit made on the program, concerns about budget that led to the 10-percent cut were misplaced, explained Nobis.

KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT, NMPF OFFICER AND DAIRY FARMER, TESTIFIED DURING A SENATE COMMITTEE MEETING ON IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED FOR DAIRY FARMERS IN THE 2018 FARM BILL.

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

SENATORS DEBBIE STABENOW AND PAT ROBERTS

Nobis said it is also important to expand dairy farmers’ access to additional risk management tools like the Livestock Gross Margin for Dairy Cattle (LGM) program and similar programs that could be offered by USDA. “Making the [MPP] program more attractive for dairy farmers is vital to ensuring participation in the program, and the safety of America’s dairy industry,” Nobis said. Nobis also expressed appreciation that the Agriculture Committee’s leadership worked with the Senate Appropriations Committee to include important changes to the MPP in the agriculture appropriations bill for fiscal year 2018. Nobis’s testimony touched on several other policy challenges affecting U.S. dairy farmers, including immigration and labor shortages, and the vitality of U.S. dairy trade as NAFTA renegotiations begin. He commended Congress and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue for actions taken earlier this year to reintroduce 1% flavored milk back into schools. He also thanked Roberts, Stabenow and several other Congress members for backing legislation that would support farmers’ roles as stewards of environmental sustainability.

Michigan Milk Political Action Committee

he Michigan Milk Political Action Committee (MMPAC) has helped members of MMPA express their interests to legislators in Lansing and Washington, D.C. since the 1970s. The PAC works to provide bipartisan support to state and federal candidates who demonstrate a willingness to work on behalf of dairy and agricultural interests. Even when the volatile dairy industry impacts producers’ milk checks, it is important MMPA stays involved politically. The candidates MMPA supports must have a proven track record for supporting the interests of agriculture and dairy, regardless of political affiliation. MMPA delegates at the 101st Annual State Delegate Meeting adopted a resolution encouraging all members to contribute one dollar per cow per year to the MMPAC. To make a contribution, and enable the MMPAC to have more power in the political process, fill out a state and/or federal contribution form. Forms will be mailed to members in September or can be obtained from the MMPA office, please call 248-474-6672 for more information.

Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Brad Hart, Clayton..................................517-445-2649 Josh Lott, Mason.....................................517-740-9981 Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015 Bruce Lewis, Jonesville ........................517-869-2877 Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610

DISTRICT 2 Danny Ransler, Gobles..........................269-628-4218 Dan Ritter, Potterville............................517-645-7318 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......574-825-5198 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.........574-825-2454 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229

DISTRICT 3 Bill Stakenas, Free Soil...........................231-425-6913 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988 Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610 Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538

MMPAC Challenge

Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-875-8162

Support MMPAC and you could be supporting one of your favorite charities! MMPA will award the MMPA district with the highest

percentage of members contributing to the district’s choice of one of five selected charity organizations or youth foundations.

The winning district can select from the following organizations:

DISTRICT 4 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957 Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................231-588-6084 Jeremy Werth, Alpena...........................989-464-4022

DISTRICT 5 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287

• Michigan 4-H Foundation

Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-825-8182

• Michigan FFA Foundation

Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233

Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496 Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794

• Michigan Dairy and Memorial Scholarship Foundation

DISTRICT 6

• United Way

Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747

• Local charity with approval by MMPA board of directors

Brad Ritter, Byron....................................586-405-4749

Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-682-9064 David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023

Contributions must be postmarked by Monday, Nov. 6, to

Jamie Meyer, Ionia..................................989-640-3372

announced at the Leaders’ Conference on Monday, Nov. 20.

Scott Kleinhardt, Clare..........................989-386-8037

qualify for the MMPAC Challenge. The winning district will be

DISTRICT 7 Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670 Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974 John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264 James Weber, Vassar..............................989-297-1850

DISTRICT 8 Mike Noll, Croswell.................................810-404-4071 Mike Bender, Croswell..........................810-404-2140 Nick Leipprandt, Pigeon......................517-897-4155 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718

1 cow

$1 for MMPAC

Bill Blumerich, Berlin.............................810-706-2955

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

TWO-HUNDRED YOUTH PARTICIPATE IN MICHIGAN 4-H DAIRY DAYS

DAIRY MANAGEMENT CONTEST RESULTS The dairy management contest is a practical, hands-on competition that tests contestants' dairy knowledge.

DAIRY JUDGING RESULTS TOP 10 NOVICE JOSEPH DOMECQ, CLINTON COUNTY WILLOW EVANS, CLINTON COUNTY

s the youth-centered portion of the Michigan Dairy Expo, the largest annual dairy event in the state, Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days offers young people interested in the dairy industry opportunities to compete for premiums, ribbons and scholarships in various educational activities, including dairy quiz bowls, dairy management contests, dairy cattle judging competitions and the Dairy Days youth show.

KADEN PETROSHUS, ALLEGAN COUNTY

MEGAN WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY

LOGAN WELTER, SANILAC COUNTY

KADEN PETROSHUS, ALLEGAN COUNTY

MEGAN WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY

LANDON THELEN, CLINTON COUNTY

HARRIS EVANS, CLINTON COUNTY

JORDAN HICKS, CLINTON COUNTY

MADDE PISH, BRANCH COUNTY

MADDIE PISH, BRANCH COUNTY

JAYDEN BRENNEMAN, BRANCH COUNTY

SEBASTIAN BRENNEMAN, BRANCH COUNTY

DORI BATTEL, TUSCOLA COUNTY

JAYDEN BRENNEMAN, BRANCH COUNTY

TOP 10 JUNIOR

SONJA YBEMA, ALLEGAN COUNTY

KEAGAN LONG, INGHAM COUNTY

WILLOW EVANS, CLINTON COUNTY

KATIE WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY

TOP 10 JUNIOR

Melissa Elischer, Michigan dairy youth educator and director of Youth Dairy Days, said that the weeklong educational event serves as the stage for showcasing some of the industry’s most talented and engaged young people and future dairy industry leaders. She said youth must learn a number of skills and knowledge in the weeks and months leading up to the event.

ADALEE THELEN, CLINTON COUNTY

“It requires a lot of commitment on the part of young people to prepare for Dairy Days. These youth spend many hours learning and practicing with their teams and coaches to prepare for Dairy Days,” Elischer said. “Once here, youth then have to budget and prioritize their time to compete in back-toback contests, often while being responsible for taking care of their show animals in the barn.”

TOP 10 SENIOR

Ottawa County youth Joshua Tripp and Clinton County resident Adalee Thelen were recognized as the highest pointgetters in the junior division of this year’s Michigan 4-H and Youth Dairy Days, an annual dairy youth activity held in conjunction with Michigan Dairy Expo.

JOEY ARENS, CLINTON COUNTY

COLBY TUCKER, ALLEGAN COUNTY

This year, nearly 200 youth from around the state participated in one or more of the educational competitions, and winners may go on to represent Michigan in national competitions.

Ottawa County youth Chelsea Barnes and Clinton County resident Jessica Nash were recognized as the highest pointgetters in the senior division of this year’s Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days, an annual dairy youth activity held in conjunction with Michigan Dairy Expo.

TOP 10 NOVICE

KATIE WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY JOSHUA TRIPP, OTTAWA COUNTY JAKE VANDERMOLEN, OTTAWA COUNTY

HAYLEY WINELAND, BRANCH COUNTY TRISTAN VANDENBERG, ALLEGAN COUNTY KAILA BARNES, OTTAWA COUNTY

ADALEE THELEN, CLINTON COUNTY ANNA MOSER, INGHAM COUNTY BRIANNE HALFMAN, CLINTON COUNTY CRISTIN THEISEN, ISABELLA COUNTY MCKENZIE BRADLEY, ISABELLA COUNTY AUTUMN REED, IOSCO COUNTY GERL PISH, BRANCH COUNTY IRENE NIELSEN, INGHAM COUNTY

HOPE SHILLING, BRANCH COUNTY

TOP 10 SENIOR

ABIGAIL WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY

MIRIAH DERSHEM, CLINTON COUNTY

DELBERT SMITH, OTTAWA COUNTY

IAN BLACK, CLINTON COUNTY

MIRIAH DERSHEM, CLINTON COUNTY JESSIE NASH, CLINTON COUNTY CALEB SHEARER, OTTAWA COUNTY BRITTANY DREYER, OTTAWA COUNTY MADISON HALFMAN, CLINTON COUNTY AMANDA HICKS, CLINTON COUNTY

JESSIE NASH, CLINTON COUNTY CATIE THEISEN, ISABELLA COUNTY CONNOR NUGENT, KENT COUNTY DREW NEYER, ISABELLA COUNTY GRACE SAYLES, SHIAWASSEE COUNTY CALEB WHITTEMORE, INGHAM COUNTY KRISTEN BURKHARDT, LIVINGSTON COUNTY

JONAH HASKINS, LAPEER COUNTY MIRIAM COOK, CLINTON COUNTY SHANNON GOOD, ALLEGAN COUNTY

SHOWMANSHIP RESULTS

MEGAN CREVIER, SHIAWASSEE COUNTY

DIVISION 1:

QUIZ BOWL RESULTS The Michigan Youth Dairy Days dairy quiz bowl competition tests the dairy knowledge of youth teams, who are awarded points for correctly answered questions.

NOVICE TEAM WINNER: CLINTON COUNTY TEAM MEMBERS WERE: JOEY DOMECQ, OF RIVES JUNCTION; WILLOW EVANS

MIRIAH DERSHEM, CLINTON COUNTY

DIVISION 2: KYLE SCHAFER, CLINTON COUNTY

DIVISION 3: ASHTON GEURINK, OTTAWA COUNTY

DIVISION 4: IAN BLACK, CLINTON COUNTY

DIVISION 5: SHANNON GOOD, ALLEGAN COUNTY

DIVISION 6:

The Overall Dairy Youth Dairy Days High Rank Award is awarded to the participant who accumulates the highest total rankings in three of four contest categories: dairy cattle judging (conformation placings and oral reasons), dairy management quiz bowl, and showmanship.

AND JORDAN HICKS, OF ST. JOHNS; AND

TRIPP, OF DORR; AND JAKE VANDERMO-

The junior division is open to youth ages 9 to 14. A similar contest is held for youth ages 15 to 19 (senior division). Each participant may only win the high rank award once in the junior division and once in the senior division.

DIVISION 9:

LEN, OF ALLENDALE.

TEAGAN HOWELL, HILLSDALE COUNTY

SENIOR TEAM WINNER: ALLEGAN COUNTY

TAYLOR GAGER, GRATIOT COUNTY

The 2018 Michigan Dairy Expo is scheduled for July 16-20 at MSU.

GOOD AND ANNA WEHLER, OF CALEDO-

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

LANDON THELEN, OF WESTPHALIA.

JUNIOR TEAM WINNER: OTTAWA COUNTY TEAM MEMBERS WERE: DELBERT SMITH, OF HUDSONVILLE; JOSHUA AND JOSIAH

THE WINNING TEAM MEMBERS WERE: KYLIE COOK, OF ALLEGAN; SHANNON

GABRIELLA NELKIE, IOSCO

DIVISION 7: TARRAH BARNES, OTTAWA COUNTY

DIVISION 8: ALLIE GRICE, INGHAM COUNTY

DIVISION 10: DIVISION 11: KATIE WILSON, ISABELLA COUNTY

NIA; AND KATRINA TUCKER AND CASEY

DIVISION 12:

YBEMA, OF HOPKINS.

ANNA MOSER, INGHAM COUNTY

Nine Outshine at 9th Annual

MICHIGAN LIVESTOCK EXPO

SALE-ABRATION

Holstein cow exhibited by Kieran Hartnagle, of Gratiot County, was selected as the supreme champion dairy cow and a Holstein heifer owned by Ashton Geurink, of Ottawa County, was chosen as the supreme champion dairy heifer at the Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days dairy cattle show held July 18 at Michigan State University (MSU) in East Lansing. Each winner was picked from a field of six dairy breed senior and junior champions, respectively. The dairy cattle show is one of several youth-centered activities held annually during the week-long Michigan Dairy Expo, the state’s largest dairy event. Hartnagle and Geurink, in addition to the supreme showmanship winner, Miriah Dershem, of Clinton County, represented the Michigan dairy industry at the annual Michigan Livestock Expo ‘Sale-abration’ auction held the evening

of the show. Champion animals selected the previous weekend at the Michigan Livestock Expo were also sold at the ‘Sale-abration’ auction. The dairy champions, however, were represented by dairy product gift baskets. This year’s gift baskets representing the supreme champion cow and heifer, showmanship winner, and grand champion cheese, raised $36,000. A majority of the funds generated from the sale of the dairy lots goes into a statewide dairy youth fund of the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund. The dairy portion of the fund supports dairy youth programs through educational grants and scholarships. The youth members who exhibited the winning animals or earned the champion showmanship award receive $1,000 each. The Supreme Champion Dairy Cow package was auctioned off for the combined bid of $14,000 from The

Kroger Company of Michigan and Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA). Members of the buying syndicate who purchased the Supreme Champion Dairy Heifer for $9,000 were: Caledonia Farmers Elevator, CoBank, Dairy Farmers of America, and Zeeland Farm Services, Inc. The package representing the supreme champion showmanship winner sold for $10,000 to a syndicate of buyers: ABS Global, Inc., Farm Bureau Family of Companies Employees, Golden Elm Dairy c/o the Eric Frahm family, Hudson Dairy, NorthStar Cooperative, Inc., Purina Animal Health, Rabo AgriFinance, the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, Vita Plus, and Ken and Liz Nobis. The Champion Cheese sold for $3,000, and was purchased by MMPA employees and the law firm of Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C.

THE SUPREME CHAMPION SHOWPERSON PACKAGE WAS ACTIONED OFF TO SUPPORT THE STATEWIDE DAIRY YOUTH FUND OF THE MICHIGAN YOUTH LIVESTOCK SCHOLARSHIP FUND. PICTURED (L-R): JIM SIPORSKI, NORTHSTAR; JOLENE GRIFFIN, UDIM; KEN NOBIS, MMPA; MIRIAH DERSHEM, 2017 SUPREME CHAMPION SHOWPERSON; LINDSAY LARSEN; DAIRY AMBASSADOR AND JESSIE NASH; DAIRY AMBASSADOR.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

50 YEARS WITH KROGER’S MICHIGAN DAIRY HOW THE KROGER CO. OF MICHIGAN, MMPA’S 2017 VALUED PARTNER AWARD WINNER, SATISFIES THE AMERICAN SHOPPER WHILE PARTNERING WITH DAIRY FARMERS AND THE COMMUNITIES THEY SERVE BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER

On the average day, one out of every seven American adults will make a trip to the grocery store, as reported by the Time Use Institute. Those Americans will spend about 43 minutes stocking up on butter and bread, perusing apples and avocados, and pushing their shopping carts down polished alleys of frozen food. And to those of us in the dairy industry, we ardently hope for those shopping carts to roll to the dairy case and for that American shopper to retrieve a gallon of milk—plus some yogurt, butter and cheese while they’re at it. The United States’ largest operator of traditional grocery stores is Kroger, welcoming a large portion of those grocery store shoppers each day. When you’re in the state of Michigan, that gallon of milk originates from the Michigan Dairy and best of all—it starts with Pure Michigan milk. The Michigan Dairy, operated by the Kroger Co. of Michigan, is now celebrating 50 years bringing fresh, wholesome milk to their customers. CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

“We bottle an average of 100,000 gallons of milk a day. It takes around 13,750 cows to supply Michigan Dairy daily,” Kopera continued. And where might you find those 13,750 cows? On none other than MMPA member farms.

“Michigan Dairy in Livonia, Michigan, opened in August 1967 as The Kroger Dairy producing fluid milk, culture and ice cream. In the early 1980s the name changed to Michigan Dairy to accommodate custom sales,” said Regina Kopera, site leader of the Michigan Dairy. For a short time, a custom account contributed to over 50 percent of the product being produced at the plant. When that business was acquired by another company, that volume was replaced with Kroger products and the plant is currently focused on fluid milk, cottage cheese and sour cream, according to Kopera. “We bottle an average of 100,000 gallons of milk a day. It takes around 13,750 cows to supply Michigan Dairy daily,” Kopera continued. And where might you find those 13,750 cows? On none other than MMPA member farms.

THE MICHIGAN DAIRY FIRST WELCOMED MMPA MEMBER MILK ON ITS FIRST DAY OF PRODUCTION IN AUGUST OF 1967.

KROGER HOSTED A 50TH ANNIVERSARY OPEN HOUSE ON AUGUST 12, GREETING OVER 1,000 VISITORS WHO TOURED THE PLANT AND ENJOYED FREE HOT DOGS AND DAIRY TREATS.

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

It started with a three-year, 100 percent supply contract when the plant opened. And today, 50 years later, the Michigan Dairy’s receiving bays still welcome MMPA-contracted haulers and process MMPA member milk for 152 Kroger stores in Michigan and Ohio. Jack Barnes, the general manager of MMPA in 1967, described the full supply agreement between MMPA and Kroger in a column in the Michigan Milk Messenger that year. The construction of the plant came at a time when many local receiving stations were closing in favor of milk being brought directly to the plant for processing. “We think this agreement is very important to MMPA and to all dairymen,” wrote Barnes. He noted that agreements like this one were part of MMPA’s strategy at the time, and provide “long range stability to MMPA’s program.” The agreement continues to provide value to MMPA members today, but only now, MMPA and Kroger work together on more initiatives than just bottling and processing milk from member farms. MMPA honored The Kroger Co. of Michigan with the inaugural Valued Partner Award at MMPA’s 101st Annual State Delegate Meeting on March 23. The two organizations have sustained a partnership that extends into a variety of initiatives from food security to youth development to dairy promotion. In his speech recognizing The Kroger Co. of Michigan with the award, MMPA President Ken Nobis referenced MMPA’s core values—quality, integrity, progressive, leadership and community—as indicative of MMPA’s relationship with Kroger that extends beyond just a supply agreement. “Through these values, MMPA remains focused on the needs of our members and our community,” Nobis explained. “They also have steered us to partner with organizations and customers who share our values. One such customer

FOUR WAYS MMPA PARTNERS WITH KROGER 1. Churning out 42,250 gallons of milk for people in need The Kroger Co. of Michigan and MMPA have worked together to bring 42,250 gallons of milk to food insecure families in three separate donations. In 2016, the two organizations partnered on a milk donation initiative to support Flint, Michigan residents following the Flint Water Crisis. Dairy is one of the foods encouraged for families to mitigate lead absorption and so MMPA and Kroger worked together to bring over 24,000 gallons of 2 percent milk to families in Flint in 2016.

SOME KROGER STORES IN MICHIGAN FEATURE SIGNAGE CELEBRATING THE LOCAL MMPA FARMS THAT PRODUCE THEIR MILK, SUCH AS WELTER DAIRY FARM IN CROSWELL, MICHIGAN.

who we have partnered with over the years is The Kroger Co. of Michigan.” According to The Kroger Co. of Michigan, they continually give back to their communities in the areas of hunger relief, better health, sustainability, good neighbor activities and diversity. “We are committed to helping individuals and organizations within the communities we serve, which is why we surveyed our customers and associates to determine what key areas would allow us to make the greatest impact.” In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Michigan Dairy, Kroger hosted an open house for the community on August 12. Over 1,000 attendees had the opportunity to tour the plant, participate in games and activities while learning more about dairy. Horning Farms, the MMPA member farm that has supplied the Michigan Dairy for the longest period of time, brought a cow and a calf to show. Meanwhile, three Michigan Dairy Ambassadors—Lindsey Sharrard, Steven Wilkinson and Mason Horning—engaged in conversations about dairy with the plant visitors. More and more consumers hope to spend their money with a company committed to its values and giving back to local communities. Reaching each shopper every day is increasingly challenging, but The Kroger Co. of Michigan’s initiatives with local dairy farmers and other crucial communities may just be the key.

In conjunction with the Valued Partner award, MMPA announced the donation of 150 gallons of milk per day for one year to recognize the 50th anniversary of Kroger’s Michigan Dairy plant. Fifty of those gallons—equivalent to 18,250 gallons of milk—were made possible by processing at the Michigan Dairy. The donation was initiated over the summer to reach families at a time when schools are out for the summer and there is a greater need for milk to support childhood nutrition.

2. Sharing the stories of MMPA dairy farmers Over the last several years, The Kroger Co. of Michigan has shown an interest in promoting agriculture and the farm to table connection to consumers. This has included television advertisements and social media promotion spotlighting MMPA farms. Further, “Pure Michigan” posters with MMPA farms are on display in Kroger stores to show consumers where the milk in their dairy cases originates. “Through the years, Kroger has stood by our side as an organization that understands our position in the agricultural industry. At a time when consumers want to know more about where their food comes from, Kroger is on the front lines, helping communicate the honest, good work of dairy farmers,” said MMPA president Ken Nobis during the award presentation. Most recently Kroger produced a video featuring Horning Farms to show support of local farmers. The advertisement was aired on television in the metro Detroit area and viewed over 179,000 times on Facebook.

3. Supporting youth initiatives The MMPA and Kroger partnership extends to youth development programs. Every June 4-H’ers make the trek to Metro Detroit for our milk marketing tour. MMPA staff teach the students about the milk marketing supply chain and careers in our industry. A key to the success of the program is the afternoon tour of the Michigan Dairy plant. Kroger additionally supports other MMPA youth development programs like scholarships. Most recently, at the Michigan Livestock Expo in July, MMPA and The Kroger Co. of Michigan made a combined bid for the Supreme Champion Dairy Cow package. The fund supports dairy youth programs through educational grants and scholarships.

4. Recognizing commitment to animal care and sustainability As part of The Kroger Co.’s sustainability initiative, the company recognizes the steps farmers have taken in the areas of animal care and sustainability, while backing the Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program. "Kroger has long been a supporter of the F.A.R.M. Program—endorsing the core elements of the Program while encouraging its continued evolution so that we continue to not only meet—but exceed—consumer expectations. Kroger's insights and leadership in sustainability and social responsibility have and will continue to be held in the highest regard by the F.A.R.M. Program and entire dairy community," states Emily Meredith, NMPF Chief of Staff in The Kroger Co.’s sustainability report. Further, management staff at Kroger has worked with MMPA to better understand the work of our farms. Kroger staff have visited Reid Dairy Farm and plan to tour more farms in the future to see firsthand how members sustainably produce quality milk and care for their animals. SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators Y 2017 CONFERENCE Z

welve MMPA members built their knowledge Board Member Gertie van den Goor, MMPA member and former of their co-op’s management, thanks to the 2017 OYDC Gordon Dick and Michigan State University Extension MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (OYDC) Educator Marianne Buza—joined the OYDCs throughout the conference. The members, the 2017 class of process. Top 10 OYDCs, converged in Novi, Michigan The winning OYDC The OYDC program is a leadership for a two-day conference held annually as part development program managed by MMPA and runners up—to of MMPA’s leadership development initiatives. since 1950. Many who participate in the be featured in the The 2017 OYDC Conference brought together program go on to become MMPA leaders October Michigan MMPA members to foster leadership and by serving on the Advisory or Resolutions Milk Messenger—were provide education on MMPA and the committees, board of directors or local or selected after the cooperative. On August 17 and 18, the group district boards. For some members, the OYDC conference after the participated in tours, cooperative update Conference is their first opportunity to learn judges considered presentations and competed to be selected as about the inner workings of the co-op and applications, interviews MMPA’s 2017 OYDC. how member pay prices are determined. and tours of the top The conference included a tour of the milk The OYDCs here at the conference were each four finalists’ farms. testing laboratory and presentations from designated by their locals and then selected MMPA’s president, Ken Nobis, and general by the nominating committee from the pool of manager, Joe Diglio. The OYDCs met and interacted with their all nominated cooperators. During local meeting season this cooperative’s employees while gaining a better understanding of winter, MMPA will begin the process of determining the 2018 the day-to-day operations of MMPA. Top 10 OYDCs with each local asked to nominate a young individual or couple. Hosting this year’s conference was the 2016 OYDC Darrin and Barbara Siemen. The Siemens guided the next class of Top 10 OYDCs through the process. Three judges – MMPA

MMPA MEMBERS UNDER 41 YEARS OF AGE: IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE OYDC PROGRAM, PLEASE CONTACT THE MMPA MEMBER RELATIONS DEPARTMENT AT 248-474-6672.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: GARRETT BARTHOLOMEW, BRANDON AND MOLLY ANDERSON, JESSE AND CHELSEA RAMER, GERTIE VAN DEN GOOR, JARRIS AND REBEKAH RUBINGH, GORDON DICK, RACHEL HINKLEY AND DEVIN HAGAMAN, JASON ELEBAUM, NATE AND JENNY ELZINGA, MARIANNE BUZA, DARRIN AND BARBARA SIEMEN.

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

2017 TOP 10 OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATORS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER) NOT PICTURED: MIKE & LAURA FINKBEINER, MANCHESTER, MI; ADAM & CHARLIE FREIS, WALLACE, MI; SCOTT & MELINDA PARR, BROWN CITY, MI

BRANDON & MOLLY ANDERSON, CARSON CITY, MICHIGAN

GARRETT BARTHOLOMEW, SCOTTS, MICHIGAN

JASON ELENBAUM, MAYVILLE, MICHIGAN

NATE & JENNY ELZINGA, ZEELAND, MICHIGAN

RACHEL HINKLEY & DEVIN HAGAMAN, CERESCO, MICHIGAN

JESSE & CHELSEA RAMER, GOSHEN, INDIANA

— GARRETT BARTHOLOMEW, SCOTTS, MI

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

DAIRY EDUCATION. DAIRY FUN.

Great Dairy Adventure!

ver 1,200 children and adults met local farmers and learned about dairy farming and the industry first hand at the 2017 Great Dairy Adventure held July 19 at the MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education. From milking a cow on a simulation demo, petting baby calves and learning about cow nutrition to learning about how milk is hauled from the farm to the processing plant, participants saw it all. The Great Dairy Adventure is part of the Michigan Dairy Expo, a fiveday event that brings 4-H clubs, FFA chapters and dairy showmanship together from across the state to compete in dairy knowledge, skill, showmanship and judging contests. Join us next year as a volunteer! For more information, contact Jessica Welch at 248-474-6672, ext. 303.

RIGHT: MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MASCOT, SPARTY, STOPPED BY THE GREAT DAIRY ADVENTURE TO MEET WITH KIDS AND HELP CELEBRATE THE DAIRY INDUSTRY.

__________________ From milking a cow on a simulation demo, petting baby calves and learning about cow nutrition to learning about how milk is hauled from the farm to the processing plant, participants saw it all. __________________ 22

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

DANCING DAIRY PRODUCTS LIKE CHOCOLATE MILK ENERGIZED ATTENDEES AT THE GREAT DAIRY ADVENTURE.

MMPA STAFF MEMBERS FROM THE NOVI OFFICE, VAISHNAVI KAMARJU (LEFT) AND ANNE DRAKOS (RIGHT), VOLUNTEERED AT MMPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COLORING BOOTH.

THROUGHOUT THE DAY, CHILDREN LEARNED DAIRY FACTS FROM VOLUNTEER LETA LARSEN WHILE PETTING A DAIRY COW.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

THE POWER

OF INFLUENCE

HOW THE UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN STRATEGICALLY PROMOTES DAIRY TO CONSUMERS IN MICHIGAN BY MELISSA HART

Influence and communication are the keys to the dairy promotional work of United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM). As they work on behalf of dairy farm families of Michigan their goal is to connect with consumers to share dairy nutrition information and connect them with Michigan’s dairy farm families. UDIM has a full arsenal of promotional tools to use as they communicate with consumers on several platforms. As youth leave the sultry days of summer behind they will dive back into school and UDIM will help schools across the state dive into good dairy nutrition and activity with the Fuel Up to Play 60 (FUTP 60). FUTP

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

60 encourages kids to eat healthy, including dairy, and be active for 60 minutes each day. “In October, over 400 FUTP 60 students will join us at Ford Field for a rally to learn more about dairy, eating healthy, being physically active and being leaders in the schools and communities,” Sharon Toth, UDIM CEO commented. “A recent survey of program advisors shared that more than half of kids are consuming more dairy and being more active because of the program.” High school athletes will benefit from the goodness of chocolate milk again this year as UDIM awarded nearly 100 fall teams with a grant to purchase chocolate milk for after practice and games to fuel their athletes. Toth said, “We continue to work with fourteen universities to provide chocolate milk to their athletes. These schools then provide chocolate milk messages to those who attend their games.” UDIM will also provide chocolate milk and dairy nutrition information to athletes at the marathons in Detroit, Grand Rapids, the Crim, and will provide chocolate milk at the Capitol City Run in Lansing this fall.

promotions, specifically designed school curriculum, the Milk Means More tagline shared across the social media platforms of Facebook Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest are also included in the UDIM promotional arsenal.

UDIM is committed to promoting milk in schools, but they are equally as concerned with providing milk to families in need. Toth explained, “This year UDIM matched $100,000 in milk drives. UDIM works with food banking system and retailers to educate consumers about the need for dairy’s powerful nutrition by families in need.” Raising money for milk was part of Gleaners Community Food Bank of Detroit Radio-A-Thon earlier this year. In June, Gleaners held a first ever Milk and Cereal Drive to help feed kids during the summer. Busch’s Food Stores hold a week-long milk donation program in the spring and in the fall and Kroger’s milk donation program was held through the month of August. “We’re providing radio ads to help support and promote these efforts,” Toth commented. Influence is a large part of what UDIM does and not only have they pulled in people to help influence the younger generation to drink more milk, they have also reached out into key areas of the influencers. “Our spokespeople continue to share dairy messages with their followers, as they have a large following online and off.” Toth continued, “Athletes Allison Schmidt, Leah O’Connor, Andre Drummond and Lindsay Tarpley are all milk spokespeople who share the good news of dairy in their diet as athletes.” Rich Fronning is the latest athlete to join UDIM’s sphere of influence. As a world renowned Cross Fit athlete, Fronning has a tremendous platform to promote the goodness of dairy. “Those who participate in Cross Fit are inundated with alternative beverages and supplements. Rich is a big supporter and promotor of milk and promoting it among those he trains and works with and this is huge,” commented Toth. Farm tours are an effective way of communicating the dairy story. Last year dietetic students from Eastern Michigan University headed west down U.S. 12 to stop at Pleasant View Dairy in

“We have a very dedicated staff who work in many areas to promote Michigan’s dairy industry, among consumers in all areas of our state,” commented Jolene Griffin, UDIM Director of Industry Relations.

Jonesville, Michigan. This tour had such a great impact on the students, a dairy farm tour will now be included in their curriculum moving forward. Jennifer Lewis, owner of the farm, commented the tour was a huge success and a real eye opener for the students. Bringing influencers on farm tours is a long-term strategy for dairy promotion. The tours bring decision makers like Michigan Department of Education staff, School Food Service Directors, and future dieticians to meet with dairy farmers and see dairy farming firsthand helps them to better understand the recommendations they make when they are asked about dairy in our diets, according to Toth.

“We know that Michigan’s consumers have a very favorable image of Michigan’s dairy farmers. They trust what they do and they are confident in the products they provide and our goal is to not only maintain that trust but to expand upon it so at the end of the day everyone knows: where their food comes from, know the families who provide it and has a connection to Michigan’s dairy farmers,” Griffin concluded. THE UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN IS FUNDED BY MICHIGAN DAIRY PRODUCERS THROUGH PART OF THE 15 CENTS PER HUNDREDWEIGHT DEDUCTION FROM PRODUCERS’ MILK CHECKS. THE DAIRY PROMOTION REFERENDUM, VOTED ON EVERY FIVE YEARS, ALLOWS 10 OF THOSE 15 CENTS TO STAY IN MICHIGAN.

“In 2016, we hosted 350 influencers on farm tours. These are the folks who are determining what kids eat in schools, they are future dietitians who will help patients, future veterinarians who may be the face of dairy even if they study small animals, and those who work in schools,” Toth explained. “When these folks see firsthand the amount of time, dedication and care that dairy farmers give their cows and ultimately the milk we drink, they are amazed.” The Great Dairy Adventure, Breakfast on the Farm, Jump with Jill, radio SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

DID YOU

KNOW

201

the checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Audit keeps us focused on the path forward? â&#x20AC;&#x153;NBQA is the only national effort focused on improving beef quality at every level of production. Millions of data points are collected about genetics, feeding, handling, and beef processing. This gives us the facts and figures we need to talk to our consumers about the quality of beef.â&#x20AC;?

WhileyouandDanaremanagingyourfarmsandranches, yourcheckoffisleadingtheefforttodrivethebeefcommunity forward and create opportunities for all producers.

Learn more about the checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Audit at

MyBeefCheckoff.com/Dan

Da n K niffe n

Seedstock producer & Chair, BQA Advisory Group

Funded by the Beef Checkoff.

MBIC IN ACTION

Michigan Beef Industry Commission MIBeef.org | 517-347-0911

Beef Council Campaign Reaches More Than a Million Millennials An ongoing beef video promotion funded by six state beef councils, including Michigan, has gained broad exposure with millennials. The checkoff campaign, featuring videos for Burger Bar Beef 101 and a recipe for “Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps,” generated 1.026 million views at a cost per view of 3¢ through July 10. The burger video debuted in late May, with the wrap recipe launching in July. The campaign runs through September 30. The goal of the campaign is to inspire beef trial and usage among millennial parents. To date, 69% of the video views have been generated in Illinois and Michigan. The view rate is 27.5% of those who were exposed to the ads on social media and watched at least 30 seconds of the videos.

MBIC Celebrates Beef Jerky Day The Beef Checkoff Program celebrated Beef Jerky Day in June by delivering beef jerky bouquets to news personalities at television outlets in many of the country’s top consumer markets. The bouquets, in custom “Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner” vases, went to 115 television stations in the top 30 U.S. markets, accompanied by beef information that included tips on how beef jerky is the “ultimate snack hack” for consumers. MBIC delivered the jerky bouquets to three Detroit television stations and extended the promotion to food bloggers in Michigan. The promotion garnered over 47 earned media and social placements, equating to about 813,000 impressions. Half of the broadcasts included at least one beef nutrition message.

Michigan Academy of Family Physicians Association MBIC was the sole sponsor for the “Full Moon Dinner Cruise” at the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians Association Annual Conference on Mackinaw Island. The dinner cruise was a success with the boat being sold out to physicians and their families. It was a light hearted evening with fantastic beef appetizers, music and a great beef nutrition radio commercial! MBIC placed a full page nutrition advertorial in the spring and summer issues of the MAFP quarterly magazine and had a booth at their Annual Conference. The sponsorship allowed MBIC to share information about beef’s role in a healthy diet with Michigan’s medical community.

Gate to Plate Tour for Culinary Arts Educators MBIC teamed up with the Michigan Restaurant Association to educate ProStart teachers and chefs on the beef life cycle. Participants visited the Oswalt Farm, a cow-calf operation; Osborn Farms, a Holstein Feedlot; JBS Packing and finish the program with a culinary event and dinner at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. This program helps teachers share accurate beef information with future culinary leaders.

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

CONQUERING WITH TEENS AND PROMOTING MILK

one growth is exponential during teen years, second only to infancy. Teenage girls often fall short of calcium requirements — 85 percent fail to meet daily calcium needs. Unfortunately, this is a time they may turn away from dairy, for several reasons. Teens’ schedules change so they don’t eat as many meals at home and they may hear misinformation about dairy from their friends and online. Working on your behalf, United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) aims to develop teens into life-long milk drinkers by sharing dairy nutrition and enjoyment, via engagement through social media and teen-targeted events. Since milk is the number one source of calcium in the typical American diet, our goal is to inspire more teens to pick up a glass of milk three times a day. “Conquer with Milk” is a campaign created in 2016 to share empowering and inspirational messaging that encourages teens to choose milk. Conquer is on Instagram and Twitter, both highly popular social media platforms for teen. Conquerwithmilk. org contains additional educational content. The social media posts focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle, through content that resonate with teens. As role models for this audience, UDIM athlete spokespeople are often featured and even “take over” the accounts, offering a glimpse into their day, and how milk helps them during grueling training sessions. The Conquer accounts also share dairy nutrition facts that are relevant to teens, in the form of quick infographics. Easy-to-make, dairyfilled recipes that Conquerors can eat on-the-go are also highlighted.

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

We’ve found an off-line presence is a key component to educating and gaining teen followers to our accounts. Conquer is promoted at many teen-centric events, where they are encouraged to follow the accounts and enter drawings for concert tickets and fun giveaways. This summer, we’ve leveraged the Milk Mustache Tour to actively engage with teen audiences at major festivals and events in Metro Detroit. Proper nutrition is especially import to teen athletes. The Conquer with Milk team was present this spring at a number of Michigan High School Athletic Association finals to talk with students about milk and encourage them to become Conquerors. This summer Conquer was represented at various teen sports camps.

Conquerors also can be featured on the account and share how they are taking on the world and choosing milk. Interested teens should tag @ conquerwithmilk in their photos and describe how they are using milk to fuel their day. We’re encouraged with the high social media engagement rate, particularly on our Instagram posts. It is an indication that our target audience identifies with the campaign’s key messages. Through these platforms, we hope our sustained educational effort leads to behavior change, and more teenage girls will be “taking on the world” with a glass of milk in hand. TO SEE THE CAMPAIGN, PLEASE VISIT HTTP:// CONQUERWITHMILK.ORG/. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CALL THE UDIM OFFICE AT 1-800-241-6455.

POLICIES MERCHANDISE

MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED

If a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue:

If a member ships milk from the farm and testing by approved laboratory methods show that the milk contained drug residue, the member will be assessed the penalties imposed by the state regulatory agency and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums.

1. Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested. A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

OR 2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the member must be sure to take the stick reading, record the number of pounds of milk and report the information to their member representative. • If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be released and shipped. • If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the member representative will authorize the member to dump the tank of milk. The member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* • If for any reason MMPA personnel must pick up samples at the farm for testing three or more times within 12 consecutive months, the member involved will be charged $25 per trip.

If a loss is incurred by MMPA due to the disposal and/or non-marketability of a load of milk or milk products containing drug residue, then the member responsible will be provided an invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. This invoice may be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. Milk from that member’s farm tank must be tested and found clear of drugs before the next tank of milk can be picked up. A hauler whose entire load sample shows the presence of drugs will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all show negative.

ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.

MMPA Milk Quality Policy QUALITY QUESTIONABLE

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

When a member suspects that the milk in the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they should call a MMPA member representative who will authorize milk in the tank to be dumped. If the member dumps the milk on their own, they must be sure to take the stick reading and record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to the member representative.

If…

If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch. The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the Mt. Pleasant warehouse. The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed. Reimbursement for the Swingline Safety Switch and the voluntary dump will then be made to the member. The member assumes all liability for losses incurred as a result of shipping poor quality or contaminated milk.

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNT

If… 1. a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members having a bacteria count of 300,000 or more, then the member or members involved will be charged the value of one-half of one day’s production** and will be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums. * The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period. ** For members using more than one bulk tank, the assessment will be based on the value of milk in the tank or tanks in violation of the MMPA quality policy.

1. a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature. 4. MMPA will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made. If a member has three or more occurrences within 12 consecutive months, that member must appear before the MMPA board of directors to review steps taken on the farm to correct the quality problem which will enable MMPA to continue to market the milk for this member.

HAULER A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cells per mL bacteria count will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all are less than 100,000. A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature. Charges and assessments made under this program will be withheld from milk checks of members or haulers involved.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

MERCHANDISE

Laundry Soaps Many of our members are using reusable wash cloths or microfiber cloths for udder prep. They last a long while and work great for wiping cows, the only downside being that they need to be washed. The merchandise warehouse stocks three laundry detergents designed to work with both manual add washers and washers that use a peristaltic pump to add the detergent automatically. Listed below are the products we carry with the characteristics for each. Liquid Laundry Soap from Ecolab comes in a 1-gallon container and is

designed for use on heavily-soiled udder prep towels and work clothes but is also safe for delicates and fine fabrics. This product can be used in hot or warm washes, and it has a nice lemon-fresh smell. Directions for use on light loads are ¼ cup per load, and for heavy loads is ½ cup per load. Stock # 6004.......................................................................Member Price: $14.46/gal

Liquid Lustersuds from Ecolab is an industrial soap-based product that works

especially well on cotton fabrics. Although designed originally for shirt and diaper laundries, it can work well for cleaning cloth udder prep towels. Lustersuds contains no phosphorous or bleach and will work well in warm and hot water cycles on all washable fabrics. It is recommended for use in softened water and it is compatible with dry or liquid bleaches. Stock # 6980- 15 gal...............................................................Member Price: $219.65 Stock # 6071-55 gal...............................................................Member Price: $747.69

Chor Mate Laundry Detergent (100#) from Ecolab is a powdered, heavy-

duty cleaner that can be used for cleaning normal laundry, barn clothes and cloth udder prep towels. It contains no phosphorous or bleach and has excellent wetting agents. The major active ingredients are sodium carbonate and sodium metasilicate. Top loading washers use ½ cup of product and front loading washers use 1/3 cup. For heavy soils, it is recommended to use an extra 1/3 cup. Stock # 6076...........................................................................Member Price: $100.85 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT ANY OF THESE OR ANY OTHER PRODUCTS,

Chemical, Sanitizer and Teat Dip Contact Information These are service personnel only. Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or one of the following service representatives: Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928 Jason Wolfe 1890 Canter Dr. Riner, VA 24149 540-553-5755

PLEASE CALL OUR MERCHANDISE WAREHOUSE.

1. Place order through your milk hauler 2. Call in your order:

THREE WAYS TO ORDER YOUR MMPA MERCHANDISE

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

Duane Farmer, Supervisor................................................................989-317-8370

Toll Free..................................................................................................877-367-6455

Orders (Novi)............................................................... 800-572-5824 then dial 2

3. Fax in your order:

MMPA Merchandise fax..................................................................... 989-317-8372

MERCHANDISE PREMIUMS

MMPA Quality Premium Program Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels: 50,000 or below.............................................................................. +55¢/cwt.

MMPA Member Testing Fees Payment for testing will be made through an automatic milk check deduction. All costs are listed per individual sample.

Cow Tests: $1

51,000-75,000....................................................................................... +50¢/cwt.

Cow samples may be tested for:

76,000-100,000.............................................................................. +45¢/cwt.

Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, gram negative and/or SCC.

101,000-125,000....................................................................................+40¢/cwt. 126,000-150,000............................................................................. +35¢/cwt. 151,000-175,000.................................................................................... +30¢/cwt.

Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA member representative to include:

176,000-200,000............................................................................ +25¢/cwt.

Raw bacteria count and components.

201,000-225,000.................................................................................. +20¢/cwt.

All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory through your MMPA member

226,000-250,000............................................................................ +15¢/cwt. 251,000-300,000.................................................................................+00¢/cwt. 301,000-400,000.......................................................................... - 30¢/cwt.

representative.

Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample.

401,000-500,000.............................................................................. -$1.00/cwt.

• Mycoplasma Cultures...........................................................................$13

501,000-600,000......................................................................... -$1.50/cwt.

• Bacteriology Cultures...........................................................................$15

601,000 and greater........................................................................ -$2.00/cwt.

– Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below: • 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for: • Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count

• Johne’s Milk Test

A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count.

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month: • Positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points • High load count shipment or rejected load shipment • #3 or #4 sediment • Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month.

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month

- PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA........................................................................................................$6

- PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Bovine Leukosis Test - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Milk Pregnancy ELISA.................................................................... $4.50

Lab test results by mail: $2/month All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA member representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol. Lab form provided below for your convenience.

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES Loc/Hlr/Producer #___________________________________________ Sample Date_____________________ Member name________________________________________________ Sample ID________________________ BLV ELISA _________

Johne’s ELISA _________

Johne’s PCR _________

Pregnancy _________

Refer to fee schedule above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer. To avoid potential service charges, this card MUST be filled out completely when sending samples to be tested by NorthStar Labs.

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

FREELINERS

« Freeliners and Classifieds can now be submitted online. » Visit www.mimilk.com/michigan-milk-messenger/advertise/ freeliner-and-classified-ads

Freeliner Policy The Freeliners column is open to current MMPA members who wish to advertise— at no charge—goods or services relating directly to their dairy farm operations.

Bulls

Cows

Registered Holstein Bulls:

Milk Cows — 1st and 2nd lactation

We now have a nice selection of

available. Can send pics of currently

service age bulls, sired by top

available cows. Leave a message if

• An item submitted will be published for no more than two consecutive months (one month, unless otherwise requested). After that, it will be withdrawn.

AI sires. Green Meadow Farms,

no answer. 734-776-0285.

• It will be published again for no more than two consecutive months only if the member resubmits the item by writing or calling the Novi office.

Service age Holstein bulls.

• Reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member.

Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or visit www.greenmeadowfarms.com.

10 Holsteins Heifers short bred to springers, vaccinated with Bovi Sheild Gold. 231-824-9403.

Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548. Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w,

• If the member does not wish such deletion, he/she may choose to have the item published as a Classified Ad at the regular per-line Classified Ad rate.

red, red carrier and some polled,

• Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding desired month of publication.

Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or

high production, low SCC herd. Bulls are priced to sell. Ver Hage 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

Equipment 1993 John Deere 6910 selfpropelled chopper. KP, 2wd, Cummins engine, 2709 cutter-head hours, in very good condition. Ready to go. $49,000 or best. 517-490-4108 For Sale: Penta- 4120 mixer asking $15,000 obo. PTO shaft $1,000. Keyto light 25 kwh generator 540 pto - $5,000 obo. Mueller plate cooler - 61 plates - $1,500 obo. Tractor white 105 w/duals - $8,000 obo. 8032 manure spreader - $200 obo. Craftsman 10 inch table saw$200 obo. Truck bed tool box - $200 obo. 989-588-9854.

LEGENDAIRY. No bull.

Co-Products Menu

Soybean meal, canola meal, hominy, oat hulls, wheat midds, citrus pulp, malt sprouts, beet pulp, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten feed, wet feeds and more!

Non-GMO products available

Milking Equipment 1,000 gal. Mueller bulk tank. (2) 3-hp. single phase units. 517-937-9694.

Misc. For Rent: 72 stall pipeline milking

Contact merchandisers at ZFS, Inc: MI/IN/OH: 866.888.7082 WI: 800-523-6760 www.zfsinc.com/divisions/ingredients

barn with all equipment, gutter cleaner, fenced pasture, 40 x 100’ freestall/heifer barn, fenced pasture. 269-806-0531. Rye For Sale: 810-724-8825.

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

CLASSIFIED ADS

Cost for classifieds is $20 per ad, up to six lines. All ads must be received by the 10th of the month before the month of desired publication. Send check or money order for $20 for up to 6 lines with your order. MMPA neither sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Messenger. You may submit your ads by: MAIL:

Classified Ads Michigan Milk Messenger P.O. BOX 800 Novi, MI 48376-8002

EMAIL: Muszynski@mimilk.com FAX: 248-426-3412

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381. DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361. CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. (800) 554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com. DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small bales) & BARLEY FOR FEED. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/texturing provides high quality traction in new & old concrete, fast service. Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC. FOR SALE: NEW & USED MILK TANKS. We stock all sizes, makes, models. Special prices to co-op members, corporate & private farms. Contact us anytime day or night. Spring special 2000 gal. Muellers for $13,900 & up. 2700 & 4000 gal. Muellers call for quote. 800-558-0112. ALPHALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair grades) & CORN SILAGE. Call 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414. NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR, 60 KW, keep everyone warm and producing if there is a power outage. Call Brent at 248-770-5122. HOOF TRIMMING - 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. Also doing fly control and cement grooving. Gibson Hoof Care (Tom) 989-239-6843.

BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR: Serving all Michigan and Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc. 574-825-9776. FOR SALE: "Meyer" Industrial #8500 Super Spreader. 850 Cu. Ft. capacity, with 28x26 Titan flotational diameter tread tires. Cleaned, and applied rust inhibitor to outside for added protection, $16,000, very good condition. 4 poly calf hutches $125 each. Cheboygan, MI. 231-625-2036. FOR SALE: SPRINGING HEIFERS out of an AI bred herd, 2-3 per month. 500+ Tons Beet pulp with inoculant stored under oxygen barrier plastic. $19/ton. 3800 Bu. High moisture corn stored in a bag $3.10/bu. I also WANT TO BUY weaned heifer calves out of an AI bred herd, 3 per month. Aron Whitaker, Elsie, MI. 989-666-6565 MICHIGAN CERTIFIED WHEAT SEED - Red and White. Zmitko Farms 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

BARN WHITE WASHING: SCHOLTEN SPRAYING SERVICE. 616-895-6307. Allendale.

Concrete Grooving and Texturing Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202 Cell: 1-716-353-1137

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION! A special herd sire or a truck load of breeder bulls. Ready to go to work on your farm!

• Sired by the top sires from the U.S. and Canada • From our top production cows

PTO and Automatic Start Generators

GREEN MEADOW FARMS 6400 Hollister Road, Elsie, MI 48831 Phone: 989-862-4291

1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

www.hamiltondist.com

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary AMS Survey Prices (monthly average, per pound)

Cheese $1.5430 / LB

| FOR MILK MARKETED IN JULY 2017

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 # This Month # Year Ago % Change Total Class 1 Sales

501,016,796

500,082,257

+0.19

Total Class 2 Sales

259,562,301

325,433,291

-20.24

Total Class 3 Sales

661,417,169

573,164,727

+15.40

Total Class 4 Sales

289,917,093

287,467,750

+0.85

1,711,913,359

1,686,148,025

+1.53

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

29.3%

29.7%

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...............................................................................4,940 Avg. Daily Production per farm....................................................11,179 Avg. Protein Test...........................................................................3.02% Avg. Butterfat Test.........................................................................3.64%

Butter $2.6039 / LB

Avg. Oth Solids Test......................................................................5.75% Avg. SCC - MMPA......................................................................181,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb.......................................................................... $1.2248

Milk Powders

Other Solids Price /lb................................................................. $0.2599

NonfatDry Milk

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................... $15.45

$0.8991 / LB

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt..................................................... $1.36

Dry Whey

Uniform Price @ 3.5%................................................................... $16.81

$0.4514 / LB

SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000..................................................... $0.00077

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 34

Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................... $2.9456

MESSENGER | SEPTEMBER 2017

2017

2016

% Change

California 3,372 3,379 -0.2 Wisconsin 2,588 2,569 +0.7 Idaho 1,295 1,297 -0.2 New York 1,270 1,271 -0.1 Texas 1,025 893 +14.8 Michigan 959 932 +2.9 Pennsylvania 908 912 -0.4 Minnesota 840 815 +3.1 New Mexico 706 651 +8.4 Washington 560 572 -2.1 Ohio 469 471 -0.4 Indiana 348 344 +1.2 Total U.S. 17,189 16,863 +1.9 U.S Y-T-D* 119,258 117,368 +1.6

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff

Novi Headquarters

Manager of Field Services Ben Chapin, Blanchard......................................989-289-0731

Main Office Local line...................................................... 248-474-6672 Toll free......................................................... 800-572-5824

Northwest Area Supervisor Sarah Michalek, Dewitt.....................................248-305-0537 Animal Care Coordinator Deb Gingrich, Leroy...........................................248-520-3580

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240

Board of Directors

Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI................................906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.....................................231-519-2455 Elyse Martin, Charlotte......................................810-701-6460 Bridget Moore, Snover......................................231-414-4539 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062

Hedging and Business Development Aaron Beak............................................................. ext. 256

Officers

Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt..................................................... ext. 208

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Northeast Area

Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

Quality Amandeep Dhillon.................................................. ext. 305

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258

Directors-At-Large

Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Vassar.................................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159 Ben Butcher, Durand.........................................248-514-5273 Ashley Herriman, Herron...................................269-245-6632 Laura Lubeski, Bad Axe......................................248-826-6294

Southwest Area Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake..... 517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061 Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Emily Peacock, Morely.......................................248-826-7243 Emily Smith, Bronson.........................................269-535-0822 Brittni Tucker, Wyoming....................................248-880-3785

Southeast Area

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula........................................................... ext. 219

Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 202

Operations Ed Jaquay............................................................... ext. 248

Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420

Member Services Dean Letter................................................... 989-289-9251 Milk Sales Carl Rasch............................................................... ext. 244 Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210

Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca....... 989-875-3441 or (c) 989-330-1638

Communications Allison Stuby Miller................................................. ext. 296

Rachel Botta......................................................248-533-2288 Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481

Supply Chain Therese Tierney....................................................... ext. 217

Other Member Services

Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303

Bulk Tank Calibration John Lehman, Elsie............................................248-444-6775

Ken Nobis, President

Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek 269-964-0511 Mark Iciek, Gladwin 989-387-4767 District Directors 1. Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032 2. Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771

Human Resources Bill Zoli.................................................................... ext. 301

3. David Pyle Zeeland 616-772-1512

MMPA Labs

Manufacturing Plants

Novi (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free 800-233-2405

Constantine, Michigan Marc Hopkins, Interim Plant Manager........... 269-435-2835

4. Corby Werth Alpena 989-464-5436

Sustainability Coordinator Kendra Kissane, Grand Rapids...........................248-880-4234

Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515 Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant Supervisor: Duane Farmer Main Line......................................................... 989-317-8370 Toll Free............................................................ 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)..................................800-572-5824, then dial 2 Fax................................................................... 989-317-8372 Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson.....................................................989-289-9686

Ovid, Michigan Colt Johnson, Plant Manager........................ 989-834-2221 Heritage Ridge Creamery, Middlebury, Indiana Dave Davis, Interim Plant Manager................ 574-825-9511

If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area. Your assigned member representative is listed on your quality statements or can be found by visiting mimilk.com/contact/ field-staff and searching by your producer number.

5. Doug Chapin Remus 231-972-2106 6. Tony Jandernoa Fowler 989-593-2224 7. Eric Frahm Frankenmuth 989-652-3552 8. Scott Lamb Jeddo 810-327-6135

SEPTEMBER 2017 | MESSENGER

Thank you dairy buyers at the 9th Annual

MICHIGAN LIVESTOCK EXPO

SALE-ABRATION

SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY COW KIERAN HARTNAGLE, WHEELER

SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY SHOWPERSON MIRIAH DERSHAM, ST. JOHNS

SUPREME CHAMPION DAIRY HEIFER ASHTON GEURINK, ZEELAND

SUPREME CHAMPION CHEESE OLD EUROPE CHEESE, INC., BENTON HARBOR

2017 DAIRY BUYERS Supporters of Michigan Dairy Youth raised $36,000 at the Michigan Livestock Expo Sale-abration on July 18, 2017. The money raised will be used to provide scholarships and support dairy youth activities such as the Michigan Dairy Expo and other dairy youth education programs.

ABS Global Caledonia Farmers Elevator CoBank Dairy Farmers of America Farm Bureau Family of Companies Employees Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C. Golden Elm Dairy, Eric Frahm Family Hudson Dairy Ken and Liz Nobis

Michigan Milk Producers Association MMPA Employees NorthStar Cooperative, Inc. Purina Animal Health Rabo AgriFinance The Kroger Company of Michigan United Dairy Industry of Michigan Vita Plus Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.

MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

41310 Bridge Street / P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376 » 248-474-6672 » mimilk.com