JULY / AUGUST 2020
VOL. 103
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TAKING CARE OF THEIR OWN
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PHOTO © 2015 MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
features
17 Taking Care of Their Own
The Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation (MDMSF) parallels the dairy industry in the history of funding young people to educate themselves to carry on the family business or support the industry in an allied career.
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A SPECIAL THANKS
As we learned throughout the pandemic, the dairy supply chain is multifaceted and relies on numerous people to get milk from the farm to the fridge – including MMPA employees. We owe it to those who kept reporting to work for the dairy products in our refrigerator right now.
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PASSION AND INNOVATION FUEL LEADING DAIRY COMPANY 2020 MMPA Valued Partner award recipient Saputo upholds family spirit, loyalty and passion as the global top 10 dairy processor hones in on research and development. milk messenger / JUL-AUG 2020
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contents
4-H MEMBERS WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXHIBIT THEIR LIVESTOCK VIA MSU EXTENSION'S VIRTUAL SHOWCASE.
MMPA DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE BRUCE LEWIS AND HIS WIFE, JENNIFER, POSE IN A SUMMERY FIELD OF SUNFLOWERS.
05 EDITOR’S NOTE
20 FIVE TAKES FROM OYDC FINALISTS
06 MILK MINUTE
26 YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK
Relationships You Can Count on During Unprecedented Times
08 QUALITY WATCH
IN MICHIGAN AND INDIANA
28 FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS
What have we learned from LPC testing?
10 NEWS & VIEWS
29 FARM SUPPLY STORE
12 LEGISLATIVE WATCH
30 STAFF
16 MEET DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE BRUCE LEWIS
31
MEMBER MOMENT
“I'm thankful for animals in my life. They allow me to enjoy every moment with them. Even when I get licked by a coarse cow tongue across the face, all I can do is laugh at times.” ROSS WILLIAMS, OYDC FINALIST (PAGE 20)
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Milk Messenger (USPS # 345-320) is published bimonthly by the Michigan Milk Producers Association, 41310 Bridge Street, Novi, MI 48376-8002. Periodicals postage paid at Novi and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Diglio Managing Editor Sheila Burkhardt, Senior Director of Member and Government Relations
Editor’s Note Change is something that most people are uncomfortable with, but with recent events we’ve all been forced to adapt in one way or another. We’ve seen firsthand systems that were traditionally not flexible, rapidly adapting to change and overcoming what initially seemed impossible. It’s been all hands-on-deck throughout the entire industry to battle the challenges at hand and on page 14 MMPA Board Chairman Doug Chapin expresses his thanks to the MMPA team for continuing their work in marketing milk.
On the Cover MMPA employees are just one part of the expansive supply chain. For MMPA customer Saputo Inc., their ability to adapt to the times is what allowed them to transition from a business done on bike to the well-known name it is today. It’s also what encourages them to continue innovating, a major reason they were awarded MMPA’s Valued Partner Award. Learn more about their story and how they’ve transitioned to the global top 10 dairy processor they are today on page 22.
Inside this Issue Perhaps no one knows change better than students leaving the farm for the first time to pursue a college education. Learn about how the Michigan Dairy Memorial Scholarship Foundation (MDMSF) helps fund young people challenging themselves to become educated before carrying on the family business or supporting the industry in another way on page 17. Be sure to also meet MMPA Director-at-Large Bruce Lewis on page 16 and 2019 OYDCs on page 20. Despite the uncomfortableness that comes with change, we hope that you are adapting to the new normal and enjoying everything that summer brings. With longer days, field work to be done and ice cream to enjoy in the summer heat, there remains a lot to be thankful for.
Editors Allison Stuby Miller, Communications Manager AMiller@mimilk.com Emily Kittendorf, Communications Coordinator EKittendorf@mimilk.com Advertising Manager Nancy Muszynski Muszynski@mimilk.com Publication Designer reZüberant! Inc., Stacy Love rezuberantdesign@gmail.com Printing Foresight Group, Stacey Trzeciak staceyt@foresightgroup.net Publication Office MMPA Milk Messenger P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002 p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924 w: mimilk.com Established in 1916, MMPA is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio. An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D Subscriptions: MMPA members - 50¢ per year Non-members - $5 per year Circulation: 2,600 (ISSN 0026-2315)
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MILK MINUTE
Relationships You Can Count On During Unprecedented Times BY SHEILA BURKHARDT, MMPA SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MEMBER AND GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
I
n the early stages of dealing with the impact of COVID-19 on the dairy industry, it was clear the dairy industry was heading into unprecedented and catastrophic times. The sudden closure of food service venues such as schools, colleges and restaurants were going to severely impact milk sales since nearly half of cheese and butter produced are consumed in foodservice markets.
SHEILA BURKHARDT
To help address the severity of the situation, we worked closely with our national and state partners such as National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and Ag Leaders of Michigan (ALM) to communicate the dairy industry’s urgent need for assistance. NMPF and IDFA worked together to develop a comprehensive proposal with a unified message to present to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the White House to help the dairy industry address the challenges created by the pandemic. NMPF represents dairy farmer owned cooperatives and IDFA represents the dairy processor community. A joint proposal between the two organizations helped send a unified message on behalf of the dairy industry. The comprehensive and unprecedented proposal was needed to address the dire situation suddenly confronting the dairy industry and once it was released, the relationships that we established over the years came to the forefront. It did not take long to realize that the relationships built in the good or normal times are ones that you can count on during the unprecedented and challenging times. We, along with others in the dairy industry, utilized our contacts to members of Congress, USDA and even the White House to communicate the crisis the dairy industry was facing. Members of the MMPA team communicated with contacts in Washington D.C. via conference calls, speaking with Congressman John Moolernaar, Senator Debbie Stabenow and Jamie Clover Adams at USDA and others about the current milk price situation, impact of the abrupt drop in foodservice sales, decreased access to export markets and importance of dairy product donations to the food bank system in the trying times. The message on those calls was clear: additional assistance would be needed because dairy producers simply could not withstand the prices the futures market was showing at the time following five years of depressed markets. Following the outreach efforts, details of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) were released and fortunately contained several support features for dairy producers including direct payments, a paycheck protection program and government purchases of dairy products. The dire situation we had communicated came to fruition as we saw milk prices dip to historic low levels for April and May production. The importance of government assistance programs combined with risk management programs like the Farm Bill’s Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program all play an important component in helping to offset the low milk prices currently being experienced. While we are thankful for the brighter market outlook for the last half of 2020, there is still more work to do in lessening the current and future impact of the pandemic on the dairy industry. We are continuing our efforts in reaching out to the relationships we established in the normal times to help us through what lies ahead.
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QUALITY WATCH
What have we learned from LPC testing? WE ASKED THE EXPERTS:
Ben Chapin
Patti Huttula
Joe Packard
MMPA Field Services Manager
MMPA Novi Laboratory Supervisor
MMPA Member Representative
Lab Pasteurized Count (LPC) testing is a great tool in the assistance of troubleshooting systems and a way to monitor quality on the farm. These past several months your MMPA lab has been performing monthly LPC testing which has given the field staff the opportunity to educate members about LPCs. A critical piece to LPC results is to remember that these are the bacteria that survive pasteurization. Because they survive pasteurization, these bacteria can cause problems with the overall quality and shelf life of finished dairy products. Something I have experienced and learned over the past several years that can lead to elevated LPCs are extended milking times and milk filters, especially during the summer months. Farms whose milking times extend beyond 5 hours may consider changing the milk filter halfway through milking. Depending on the system this may or may not be possible, but we have seen this practice reduce LPCs. We are always learning more about bacteria and better ways to control them. Your MMPA team is here to assist in achieving the best quality possible. If you have quality or system washing concerns, contact your MMPA member representative and they will work with you on quality and system troubleshooting.
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LPC is the number of bacteria per mL of milk which survive laboratory pasteurization. To perform the procedure, a portion of milk is aseptically dispensed into a sterile vial and then heated to 62.8° Celsius (143° Fahrenheit) for 30 minutes. The media is inoculated with a dilution of milk and then incubated for 48 hours after which the bacteria colonies are counted. The results range from 10 cfu/mL which is an indication of excellent quality to 1000 cfu/mL which would prompt the member to identify the root cause of the elevated result and take corrective actions. Approximately 2,600 LPC tests are performed each month.
Troubleshooting an elevated LPC can be a challenge to tackle on-farm. When helping a producer locate potential LPC issues in their system, I start with a thorough inspection of all equipment to make sure it is clean. Then, I inspect the rubber parts throughout the system, such as O-ring gaskets, lid gaskets, inflations, jetter cups and milk pump seals. As these parts break down, visible cracks and microscopic crevices form in the rubber. Bacteria love to find their way into these small, difficult-to-clean places which can cause high counts. If the system has an air blow installed, I also check the air blow filters to make sure they are clean and in good condition.
LPC special testing has been a service provided by the Novi Laboratory for many years. Since October 2019, we have run LPC testing on each member's milk at least once a month. For both special testing and routine testing, the test results flow through to the member. When viewing the “Details and Specials” section on the Member Portal, the test is listed as a PAST special where PAST stands for PASTEURIZED. The email notifications and mailers list the test as an LPC special. If you have any questions related to a test method or result, please contact the Novi Laboratory.
As with other bacteria-related issues, prevention is the best defense against high LPCs. Routine maintenance and replacement of parts is crucial to maintaining a low LPC. Air blow filters, O-ring gaskets, inflations, jetter cups and milk pump seals all have a recommended lifespan so producers should consult with their equipment dealers regarding these parts and replace them at regular intervals. If a producer is concerned about a potential cleaning issue, MMPA’s trained member representatives can perform a wash analysis on the pipeline and bulk tank to observe for problems during wash cycles.
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NEWS & VIEWS
MMPA Scholarship Opportunities Coronavirus (COVID-19) MMPA is committed to protecting the health and well-being of our communities, while ensuring we continue to market members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.
M
MPA members, children of members and employees of members attending Michigan State University (MSU) and Purdue University are eligible to apply for MMPA scholarships. Efforts are also underway to
establish a scholarship at The Ohio State University. Authorized by the MMPA Board of Directors, the scholarships encourage post high school study for careers in dairy management to continue the education and implementation of innovation on member’s dairy farms. Students pursuing a dairy management certificate in the Institute of Agricultural Technology at MSU may apply for $1,750 per semester (for members or children of members) or $1,500 per semester (for employees of members) scholarship monies. MSU scholarship applications are due by September 1. At Purdue University, there is one $1,000 scholarship available for a student who
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ACCESS COVID-19
is a member or child of a member enrolled in any agriculture-related major.
RESOURCES, PLEASE VISIT MIMILK.COM/COVID19.
MMPA producers scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings KIESSLING FAMILY FARMS INC DENNING FARMS LLC RANSLER FARMS LLC PLEASANT VIEW DAIRY MARGRO FARMS PRIME LAND FARM* DANIEL AND GRACE SCHROEDER* DAVID M VAROSI* FREDERICK L INBODY* MK FARMS LLC VOLMERING FAMILY DAIRY INC SCHARRER DAIRY LLC WEAVERLAND FARMS RAYMOND WOLAK RON DIEHL* BENNETT DAIRY FARM LLC* BRAD WREN* WEBER DAIRY FARMS LLC RDJ DAIRY J & B DAIRY LLC W-R-L DANIELS FARM LLC LAVON HOOVER *100
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FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION, VISIT MIMILK.COM/SCHOLARSHIPS.
Food Bank Council of Michigan Creates Dairy Donations Virtual Food Drive Milk and dairy remain one of the most requested items at approximately 3,000 pantries in Michigan. Yet, dairy only comprises 5.7 percent of products received at the food banks. The Food Bank Council of Michigan added a special fundraising option where donations from the public will be used to purchase dairy products. Donations can be made to support food banks all across Michigan, or one of the seven regional food banks that make up the Food Bank Council of Michigan. To build on previous dairy product donations made by the cooperative, MMPA employees helped kick off the campaign and have raised over $2,000 to date. The funds will enable the food bank system to purchase around 18,000 servings of milk or 10,640 servings of cheese for families in need. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: FBCMICH.ORG/VIRTUALFOODDRIVE.
18,000 servings of milk or 10,640 servings of cheese
USDA Dairy Safety-Net Program Signup to Begin October 12 for the 2021 Coverage Period
T
he U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announces that Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) safety-net signup for 2021 coverage will begin October 12 and will run through December 11, 2020. DMC has already triggered
payments for two months for producers who signed up for 2020 coverage. “If we’ve learned anything in the past six months, it’s to expect the unexpected,” said FSA Administrator Richard Fordyce. “Nobody would have imagined the significant impact that current, unforeseen circumstances have had on an already fragile dairy market. It’s during unprecedented times like these that the importance of offering agricultural producers support through the delivery of Farm Bill safety-net programs such as DMC becomes indisputably apparent.” The April 2020 income over feed cost margin was $6.03 per hundredweight (cwt.), triggering the second payment of 2020 for dairy producers who purchased the appropriate level of coverage under the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program. The April margin reflects a more than a $3 drop from the March $9.15 cwt. income over feed cost margin. As of June 15, FSA has issued more than $100 million in much-needed program benefits to dairy producers who purchased DMC coverage for 2020. Authorized by the 2018 Farm Bill, DMC is a voluntary risk management program that offers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer. Over 13,000 operations enrolled in the program for the 2020 calendar year. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT FARMERS.GOV DMC WEBPAGE OR CONTACT YOUR LOCAL USDA SERVICE CENTER. TO LOCATE YOUR LOCAL FSA OFFICE, VISIT FARMERS.GOV/SERVICE-CENTER-LOCATOR.
Michigan 4-H Rolls Out Virtual Showcase and Auctions After Michigan State University Extension’s announcement of no in-person events or activities until September 1 and many fairs cancelling due to COVID-19, MSU Extension has now announced Virtual Learning Showcase and Auctions. The online experience will allow 4-H members to show off their summer project work, including an opportunity to exhibit and market their livestock projects. FOR MORE INFORMATION
MSU Extension Farm Stress Study
VISIT WWW.CANR.MSU.EDU/ RESOURCES/4-H-VIRTUALAUCTION-FAQ
Researchers at Michigan State University Extension are conducting a research study to learn more about struggles farmers experience and what types of information may help. The study involves the use of text messaging to provide information to help farmers manage farm stress. This study will take place entirely online and via text message. That means that you do not have to go anywhere to participate, and you can participate at a time and location that makes the most sense to you. You will be compensated with a $40 Amazon gift card at the end of the study, and selected participants will receive $20 for an interview. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING, LEARN MORE AT CANR.MSU.EDU/MANAGING_FARM_STRESS.
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LEGISLATIVE WATCH
Bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act May Help Farmers Tap Into New Economic Opportunities
S
everal agriculture and dairy organizations, including MMPA and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) have applauded the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act introduced in the U.S. Senate in June. The bill is considered an important step toward reducing agricultural carbon emissions that aligns well with dairy’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality or better by 2050 through the industry’s Net Zero Initiative.
“We commend Senators Braun and Stabenow, as well as Senators Graham and Whitehouse, for their bipartisan work to facilitate greater farmer participation in environmental markets,” said Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. “Dairy farmers are environmental stewards who value proactive approaches to sustainability, and this legislation will provide a welcome boost to their efforts. We look forward to working with Senators Braun, Stabenow, Graham, and Whitehouse to advance this bill in Congress.”
U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Committee, and Mike Braun (R-IN), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources, introduced the bill with Senators Lindsey Graham (RSC) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) will introduce the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Mulhern noted that carbon markets will play an important role in the dairy sector’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, an industrywide effort that will require public-policy support. “Net zero is good for dairy farmers, good for consumers and good for the planet,” Mulhern said. “The Growing Climate Solutions Act is part of how Congress can be leaders in this effort, and we are excited to see lawmakers sharing our goal of a climate-friendly future.”
The legislation encourages sustainable farming practices by making it easier for farmers to participate in carbon markets. The Growing Climate Solutions Act creates a certification program at USDA to help solve technical entry barriers that make it difficult for farmers and forest landowners to participate in carbon credit markets. “MMPA appreciates the bipartisan efforts of Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow and Indiana Senator Mike Braun on legislation that would streamline and simplify the use of carbon credits for dairy farmers,” said MMPA Senior Policy Advisor Ken Nobis. “Dairy farmers utilize many conservation practices related to sequestering carbon in the soil. The proposed legislation would facilitate interaction with private entities looking for offsets to their carbon footprint. Dairy farmers look forward to being rewarded for their conservation efforts and continuing to play a role in environmental stewardship.”
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The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry hosted a hearing on the Growing Climate Solutions Act on June 24, where prominent agricultural leaders urged passage of the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act.
“Today’s hearing showcased the growing support for the bipartisan Growing Climate Solutions Act,” said Senator Stabenow at the hearing. “Our bill is a win-win for producers and our environment. I look forward to continuing to work across the aisle and across the Capitol to pass this important bill.” “As a Main Street Entrepreneur and conservationist, I know firsthand that if we want to address our changing climate then we need to facilitate real solutions that our farmers, environmentalists and industry can all support,” said Senator Braun. “The Growing Climate Solutions Act will help make those solutions reality, and I was glad to hear from prominent agricultural leaders encourage its passage at the hearing.” The bill has the support of over 50 farm groups, environmental organizations, and Fortune 500 companies. SOURCE: NMPF AND U.S. SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NUTRITION, AND FORESTRY
CFAP Enrollment Continues Through August 28 Dairy farmers are eligible for direct support through USDA’s Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). CFAP provides direct financial assistance to agricultural producers, providing them the ability to weather the economic uncertainty caused by COVID-19. USDA is accepting CFAP applications through August 28. CFAP payments, which amounts to around $6.20 per cwt. are eligible to all dairy operations with milk production in January, February and/or March 2020. Production enrolled in risk management programs, including Livestock Gross Margin, Dairy Revenue Protection, Dairy Margin Coverage or forward contracts, also qualifies for CFAP payments. Call and set up an appointment with your local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office to determine your eligibility and to apply for assistance.
Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Dan Minnis, Dansville.........................517-719-5894 Scott Ferry, Litchfield..........................517-214-3298 Art Riske, Hanover..............................517-524-6015 Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH.................419-466-4471 Brian Preston, Quincy.........................517-376-1350
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DISTRICT 2 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN............574-825-2454 Danny Ransler, Gobles.........................269-998-3802 Dan Ritter, Potterville.........................517-645-7318 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN..........574-202-5198
DISTRICT 3 Gary Nelsen, Grant..............................231-834-7610 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland.........................616-520-5143 Burke Larsen, Scottville......................231-425-8988 Max Carlson, Fremont.........................231-638-2183 Arlyn Walt, Coopersville......................616-837-8247
DISTRICT 4 Jeremy Werth, Alpena.........................989-464-4022 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................425-533-8106 William Pirman, Skandia.....................906-869-4515 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957 Paul Ponik, Posen................................989-464-5924
DISTRICT 5 Robert Lee, Marion.............................231-743-6794 John Black, Howard City......................231-846-7252 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton.......................989-506-5287 Bruce Benthem, McBain......................231-920-1615 Amy Martin, Leroy..............................231-388-0496
DISTRICT 6 David Reed, Owosso............................989-274-8147 Mike Halfman, St. Johns......................989-640-1962 Jon Thelen, Westphalia.......................989-587-3951 Renee McCauley, Lowell......................616-283-6411 Steve Thelen, Fowler...........................989-640-1075
DISTRICT 7 John Bennett, Prescott........................989-345-4264 Rodney Fowler, Chesaning..................989-302-2299 Tracy House, Mt. Pleasant...................989-621-6610 Philip Gross, Weidman........................989-289-0670 Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974
DISTRICT 8 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718 Bill Blumerich, Berlin..........................810-706-2955 Mike Noll, Croswell.............................810-404-4071 Jeremy Sharrard, Peck.........................810-404-5076 Bryan Schulte, Ruth............................989-551-8200
Michigan Milk Producers Association 1996 Gover Parkway Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 mimilk.com
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EMPLOYEE THANKS
C
OVID-19 wreaked havoc on the milk supply
chain and tested the minds and bodies of everyone involved in it. After the dairy industry was declared essential in early March, each of us discovered what that truly meant when the world ground to a halt and we were one of only a few continuing to carry on.
MMPA employees responded as fast as they could to the needs of the members and the cooperative: changing the way they work, working longer hours and doing everything they could to ensure that milk continued to be marketed. Without the hard work and effort from the entire team, the situation could have devolved even faster overnight and as those involved in the industry and those who consume dairy products, we owe it to those who kept reporting to work for the milk, cheese and other dairy products in our refrigerator right now.
A Special
THANK YOU TO THE MMPA EMPLOYEES WHO CONTINUED TO SHOW UP AND GIVE THEIR ALL ON BEHALF OF MMPA MEMBERS, THE INDUSTRY AND CONSUMERS.
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MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION 41310 Bridge Street / P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002 p 248-474-6672
» f 248-474-0924 » mimilk.com
Dear MMPA employees, I know with the COVID-19 pandemic, all of you faced different challenges, whether it was childcare, caring for high risk family members, or the concern and anxiety for your own health. I know there is a different situation for each one of you and I appreciate the risk that all of you took each and every day that you came to work for MMPA. I believe that throughout this pandemic that you not only served our co-op members, but our country as well. Recently, we’ve all been made aware of how connected we are and how much we rely on everyone's work and efforts. Milk was certainly viewed as essential and important to every household. When people were uncertain of the future, they rushed to the store to stock up on dairy, and your efforts helped give them comfort. The work all of you did truly served everyone. I speak for the Board of Directors and all of our member owners when I say thank you for your continued commitment to MMPA and the important work that you do every day. Wishing you and your families the best,
DOUG CHAPIN, MMPA BOARD CHAIRMAN
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BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
BRUCE AND JENNIFER LEWIS
Meet Director-at-Large Bruce Lewis MMPA delegates recently elected Bruce Lewis to serve a three-year term on the MMPA board of directors as a director-at-large. Lewis joins the 12 other dairy farmers on the MMPA board of directors, helping guide the direction of the cooperative and setting strategic goals. Lewis has been farming since 1984. Today, he operates 3,100 acres and milks 700 cows on Pleasant View Dairy. He is a member of the Hillsdale-Litchfield Local in District 1. He’s been active in MMPA for many years, currently serving as a delegate, a member of the Resolutions Committee and the Hillsdale-Litchfield Local President. Along with being an Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (OYDC) in 2005, Bruce and his wife, Jennifer, were named MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year in 2013 and have received numerous other awards in recognition for leadership within the industry.
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How has MMPA impacted your farm? MMPA has always been there for us is the best way to put it. We haven’t had to worry about whether or not the co-op would be there for us and we can count on the milk check.
Why did you want to join the MMPA board of directors? I have always felt that for any organization that directly impacts our business, there needs to be a willingness to be involved. I just felt the time in my life was right to seek the position and try to give back to our cooperative.
What do you value most about MMPA? MMPA has consistently been there for us. Through 105 years of history, they’ve been there through pandemics and world wars, continuing to help serve the dairy farmers. Everything that the co-op has been through, they have been able to adapt. Any time a business can stick around over a century, they are doing a lot of things right.
What are your goals and vision while serving on the board of directors? Right now, it’s still a large learning curve, but as I get up to speed, I have a desire to help move the organization forward, so hopefully it will be in existence in the next 100 years.
What would you tell your fellow members who want to influence the direction of the cooperative? Be willing to serve if there’s an opportunity to serve. Whether it’s as a delegate or on the Advisory Committee, people need to be willing to be involved. It’s your farm’s co-op, so you need to have willingness to be involved. It is always an amazing adventure when you go to some meetings and gather with farmers around the country and learn that we all have the same types of issues. There is commonality in meeting and finding someone, whether other side of county or other side of country, we’re all in this together.
FEATURE PHOTO © 2015 MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
TAKING CARE OF THEIR OWN THE MICHIGAN DAIRY MEMORIAL AND SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION CONNECTS THE PAST WITH ITS FUTURE BY MELISSA HART
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people interested in careers in dairy. The Foundation’s endowment has grown about 25 percent in recent years through generous gifts from individuals and organizations in Michigan and elsewhere. Many of these gifts were given to honor the accomplishments of individuals in Michigan’s dairy industry. Two of the newly named endowments are the Trimner Endowment and the Hazel Endowment. Dana Sue Kirk is the daughter of the late George and Shirley Hazle who not only bred a renowned herd of Registered Holsteins, but as retired dairy farmers, they continued to enthusiastically support the industry.
PHOTO © 2015 MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
D
airy farms are often a generational picture of a family dedicated to the business through hard work and sacrifice. Much like marital vows, for better or worse, and richer or poorer, the dairy industry stands on decades of passionate people passing the torch of determination that never burns out.
The Michigan Dairy Memorial Scholarship Foundation (MDMSF) parallels the dairy industry in the history of funding young people to educate themselves to carry on the family business or support the industry in an allied career. Founded by a group of visionaries who wanted to provide scholarship funds to students interested in dairy science, the MDMSF is now in its 63rd year of awarding deserving students whose career path traverses the dairy industry. Dr. Miriam Weber-Nielsen, MSU Department of Animal Science and Secretary of MDMSF Board of Directors, explained that the Foundation has awarded more than $1.4 million in scholarships to young people aspiring to careers in the dairy industry. “Gifts to the MDMSF are used to grow the endowment fund with interest from
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the principal used to create scholarships and support learning experiences for our students in dairy science,” Neilsen said. “The Foundation recognizes individuals, couples or organizations as Foundation Honorees with a $1,000 contribution, over 220 to date and the official number will increase once we can gather again to recognize our newest Honorees,” Nielsen continued. Eleven individuals or couples have been recognized at a higher level with named scholarships. A named scholarship involves a minimum contribution, currently $50,000, and a conversation with the donors to plan the criteria for awarding of the scholarship. According to Nielsen, the twofold purpose of the Foundation is one that people can feel good about: honoring leaders in our industry and supporting the education of young
“[George and Shirley] always had contributed to the scholarship and before dad died, he knew we were going to set up a named endowment for him. So, our whole family chipped in and got the endowment,” Kirk said. “Actually we were way over the $50,000 because we wanted not only to have a scholarship, but we wanted to also contribute to the dairy judging and the dairy challenge teams.” Kirk said the endowment means allowing another individual to get an education at MSU. “Between Kevin and I and our three kids and their spouses we have ten degrees from Michigan State. And we just want to help others,” she said. The Kirk’s son had his entire tuition paid through the Glenn Lake Scholarship. “It’s one of the longest running scholarships and it got funding early on,” she said. “With interest rates the way they’ve been in the last twenty years, they have really generated a lot of additional funding.” Nielsen said MDMSF is kept alive through the generosity of the industry. “The dairy industry is filled with generous people, both those currently working in the industry and those who were associated with it in their past,” she said.
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The twofold purpose of the Foundation is…honoring leaders in our industry and supporting the education of young people interested in careers in dairy.
“They are used to contributing to their industry and to their community when they see a need. When our board members recognize a new Foundation Honoree for their industry leadership - whether that’s in an official leadership position, serving others, setting a positive example for others, or contributing to their industry or community in other ways, we find that people are quick to support the recognition with contributions to meet the $1,000 requirement,” Nielsen said. “The Foundation’s purpose of using the funds to support the college education of young people in dairy is attractive to many people.” Nielsen pointed to a growing need for funding in recent years, “With many of our recipients coming from farm backgrounds, the importance of these scholarships has grown in the last few years with changes in the dairy and agricultural economy,” she said. “Many of our students are working while
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Many of our students are working while attending college. The scholarship support relieves their financial burden and allows them to focus more on their education. attending college. The scholarship support relieves their financial burden and allows them to focus more on their education,” Nielsen said. “It is more than just money, however. The fact that the Foundation believes in them enough to invest in them is a tremendous encouragement to our scholarship recipients, whether they come from farm or non-farm backgrounds.” “I don’t think there is another program in the country like the Michigan Dairy Memorial Scholarship and the way it
recognizes not only the student winners but also the dairy industry leaders,” said past scholarship winner, Renee McCauley. “When you look at some of the names of the forefathers, it’s a great collection of history, and the program has a unique way of paying honor to those foundational people who had a great vision for educating farm kids.” McCauley said it’s a picture of the dairy industry taking care of their own, “A child of the industry is supported by dairy farmers who share the same values, and the way it’s structured, the scholarship winners have a chance to meet the board members and donors, uniquely connecting the industry,” McCauley said. “It’s humbling to look at those names and see those who participated and gave back to the dairy industry through this scholarship. I’m a big fan of the Dairy Memorial scholarship.”
Trimner Endowment
G
ary Trimner, retired MMPA Director of Member Services, and his wife, Carolyn, established an endowment to support interns in the MSU Food Systems Fellowship Program through the Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation. As a long-time leader in the dairy industry, Gary and Carolyn established the endowment to benefit organizations and programs that are committed to developing the next generation of industry professionals.
While working at MMPA, Gary helped establish the Food Systems Fellowship Program and realizes the value it brings to Michigan’s dairy industry, a reason the program is at the core of the endowment. “We saw that the number of large animal veterinarians was getting less and less and we knew that we needed more and more.” Further incentivizing participation in the program through the endowment allows Gary to continue his role in bettering the dairy industry’s future.
“The goal of establishing the endowment was to benefit MMPA, the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine and the dairy industry. That’s why we did what we did.” MMPA PRESIDENT AND CEO JOE DIGLIO THANKED GARY AND CAROLYN TRIMNER ON BEHALF OF MMPA AT THE COOPERATIVE'S ANNUAL MEETING IN MARCH.
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OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATORS
A decision made years ago, directed by those parameters, was to install robots into the parlor to increase labor efficiency on the 130-cow farm. In the future, Ross is looking forward to building a new heifer facility to encourage better heifer growth and breeding while also being more labor efficient.
THE FIVE:
What are you thankful for? 1. My family “I'm thankful for my family. Without their support and hard work, I wouldn’t be the man I am today. They help encourage me when times are hard.”
2019
OYDC FINALIST Ross Williams HOMEFIELD: Homer, Michigan
THE FACTS:
Ross Williams is a graduate of Michigan State University’s dairy science program and has received the FFA State Degree and American Degree. He’s active in the FFA Alumni Association and Michigan Farm Bureau. Ross believes that everyone who loves milk has a role in reaching out to consumers to help them recognize the value of the product. For this reason, he is a part of UDIM’s Team Chocolate Milk, trying to promote chocolate milk for consumption after sporting events and workouts. An overall promotor of milk, Ross understands the value he has in America’s dairy industry.
THE FARM: Efficiency is the name of the game at Williams Dairy Farm. Ross makes farm decisions guided by the motive to increase efficiency wherever possible.
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2. My friends “I'm thankful for my friends. Without their craziness in my life, I know I would have gone crazy by now. They support me and help me in any time of need.” 3. My cows “I'm thankful for animals in my life. They allow me to enjoy every moment with them. Even when I get licked by a coarse cow tongue across the face, all I can do is laugh at times.” 4. My checkoff “I'm thankful to be able to run under sponsorship for the United Dairy Industry of Michigan. Its combining two of my loves into one. Being able to run and encouraging people to drink chocolate milk as a recovery drink brings me joy.” 5. My industry “I'm most thankful for one thing in life, and that's just being a farmer. It's a completely different lifestyle. It defines everyone in the industry as hard working and devoted to what we love. It's about doing our best and trying to feed the world.”
Their farm is currently working to expand their social media presence, informing consumers about dairy products and are working on hosting farm tours and internship opportunities with local schools and colleges.
THE FIVE
What actions do you take to produce high quality milk? 1. Consistent milking routine “There are two people on the farm who help manage our milking routines, and at least one of them is a part of every milking. They help enforce and monitor milking procedures, including prep, forestripping, lag time and post dip.”
2019
OYDC FINALIST Brian & Jill DeMann HOMEFIELD: Martin, Michigan
THE FACTS:
Brian & Jill DeMann are active in their community. Brian, a graduate of Michigan Fire Academy, is on the board of directors of Farmers Co-Op Elevator Co., member of Allegan County Farm Bureau and holds many positions at Martin Reformed Church. Jill, with a master’s degree in education, teaches at Martin Reformed Church Preschool and recently celebrated her tenth year teaching. Both Brian and Jill are active in their county’s Young Farmer program and participated in the Washington Legislative Seminar with Farm Bureau. The couple has one child, Kinsler (4).
THE FARM: In 2005, Brian and Jill DeMann began dairy farming with their family on Clearview Dairy Farm. Their drive to produce quality, commodity goods has encouraged them to adopt efficient and progressive management techniques.
2. Cow nutrition “We regularly test our feed dry matter and nutrient value of raised forages, make adjustments accordingly with our nutritionist, frequently test for mycotoxins, and have scheduled feed push-up times.” 3. Cow comfort “There’s no doubt that stocking density, cooling by fans and sprinklers in warm weather, and frequent grooming and addition of sand to stalls greatly help the milk quality on our farm.” 4. Genetic selection “We have been strictly AI for years and a mated herd. We choose sires for higher component yield and low SCC, over choosing for production, and can see a difference in the last few generation’s component yield and SCC score on our milk tests.” 5. Milking and cooling equipment maintenance and system cleaning “Wash analysis by MMPA Field Representative and our dairy equipment dealer help detect and troubleshoot issues before they affect our milk quality in the tanks.” milk messenger / JUL-AUG 2020
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POWERFUL PARTNERSHIPS
PHOTO CREDIT: SAPUTO INC.
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PASSION AND INNOVATION FUEL LEADING DAIRY COMPANY BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER
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POWERFUL PARTNERSHIPS
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GLOBAL TOP 10 DAIRY PROCESSOR SAPUTO INC. EARNS MMPA VALUED PARTNER AWARD ometimes—if it’s 1954—all you need is a bicycle and $500 in
cash to “plant the seeds” of a multinational dairy company. At least, that’s how it happened for the Saputo family.
After settling in Montreal, Canada, Lino Saputo and his parents founded a small business—formally known as Saputo Inc.—that has since exploded into one of the world’s leaders in the dairy industry and the 2020 MMPA Valued Partner award recipient. Even after modest beginnings, it was evident the company’s founders saw their determination, hard work, passion and vision as vital stepping stones to transform Saputo into an industry leader, both in Canada and around the world. Today, Saputo products can be found in over 50 countries under market-leading brands, as well as private label brands. The company employs approximately 17,200 employees and operates 66 facilities worldwide, including 26 in the U.S. They may no longer use a bicycle as the main mode of delivery, but the Saputo family is still at the helm, with Lino Saputo, Jr. serving as chair of the board of directors and chief executive officer. Publicly traded since 1997, Saputo is one of the top 10 dairy processors in the world and is among the top three cheese producers and one of the largest producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products in the U.S.
Driving Growth and Innovation
WHEN SAPUTO STARTED IN THE 1950S, LINO SAPUTO SR. MADE DELIVERIES ON BIKE. PHOTO CREDIT: SAPUTO INC.
Part of the company’s growth is attributed to various acquisitions worldwide, 32 to be exact, over the last two decades. According to Saputo, its impressive growth via acquisitions, investments in assets and innovation, and commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates have resulted in Saputo’s successful operations and products. Leaving no class untouched, Saputo makes cheeses, fluid milk, extended shelflife milk and cream products, cultured products, dairy ingredients, and butters,
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spreads and oils. MMPA supplies several ingredient products for Saputo, serving both the dairy foods and cheese divisions of their U.S. business. MMPA Senior Director of Sales Jim Feeney said in addition to sales of raw milk, condensed skim products and cream, MMPA has helped Saputo meet their unique needs with the ultra-filtered (UF) milk system at the Constantine plant. “Our UF and its customization capabilities has many applications that mesh well with Saputo,” Feeney said. “We worked alongside them to explore the capabilities of the line through test runs and trials to customize what they want and what they need.” According to Terry Brockman, President and Chief Operating Officer of Saputo’s Cheese Division (USA), the company invests in innovation and is constantly exploring new projects that align with their goals and vision. This involves partnering with suppliers like MMPA on mutually beneficial products and projects. Feeney says MMPA helps provide support to our customers like Saputo by aligning with them through the research and development process. “We work in tandem with their research and development team to know where they want to go and how we can help them,” Feeney said. “We imagine new products not on the market today and
“
We are always on the lookout for not only new product ideas, but also best practices as we continue to move forward in the technology realm.
envision how we can align to make them possible. Together, we’re driving innovation.” Research and development is also very important to the Company. “We are always on the lookout for not only new product ideas, but also best practices as we continue to move forward in the technology realm,” Brockman said.
Capitalizing on Consumer Trends
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As a processor, we’re in a unique position to affect cheese making throughout the entire manufacturing process, staying ahead of ever-changing consumer taste preferences. products for today’s consumer,” Brockman said. “Across key brands, we have launched multiple product formats such as new snacking items and have continued to grow core product types.”
The Cheese Division (USA) has an established research and development process, comprised of multiple cross functional departments, that Brockman says has proven successful.
For example, as demand for whole milk has regenerated in recent years, Saputo’s brand Frigo® Cheese Heads® relaunched its “super string cheese” product with whole milk. According to IRI, whole milk sales have been up 6 percent since 2016 compared to prior year and have continued to grow. The use of whole milk and “unique fortification” of Vitamin A & Calcium helps distinguish the Frigo® Cheese Heads® product on store shelves.
“Our development process incorporates the following: (i) envisioning strategic opportunities through industry dynamics and key insights, (ii) examining how we can deliver on consumer needs through product ideation leveraging R&D and culinary capabilities and (iii) executing a scalable plan to commercialize effectively and efficiently,” Brockman said. Brockman says they strive to stay on top of consumer’s evolving needs in the allimportant cheese category. “The Cheese Division (USA) continues to review current dairy trends to understand the changing needs of consumers to ensure we are delivering the right
“As a processor, we are in a unique position to affect cheese making throughout the entire manufacturing process, staying ahead of ever-changing consumer taste preferences,” Brockman continued.
While strategic developments are important to the company, Brockman also pointed to their focus on their employees, 6,500 of which are based in the U.S.
Focusing on Passion and Family Spirit “Our employees are our greatest asset. Saputo’s longstanding, unique and commendable culture is something that is very important to the company,” he said. This has continued through the added challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with ensuring business continuity, Saputo zeroed in on “supporting [the] frontline.” In addition to adapting production, supporting their local communities and patron farmers, Saputo helped their employees by “mitigating financial, physical and mental health impacts,” going back to the values that guided them to the success they have today. “As part of the Saputo family, the various divisions, though spread-out across the world, are connected by imperative building blocks of our business – our values and overall culture,” Brockman said. “Family spirit, loyalty and passion are the cornerstones of our approach, and teamwork, continuous improvement and quality are at the heart of our every initiative.”
ONE OF THE TOP 10 DAIRY PROCESSORS IN THE WORLD TOP DAIRY PROCESSOR IN AUSTRALIA
AMONG THE TOP 3 CHEESE PRODUCERS IN THE UNITED STATES
2ND LARGEST DAIRY PROCESSOR IN ARGENTINA
ONE OF THE LARGEST PRODUCERS OF EXTENDED SHELF-LIFE AND CULTURED DAIRY PRODUCTS IN THE UNITED STATES
A LEADING CHEESE MANUFACTURER AND FLUID MILK AND CREAM PROCESSOR IN CANADA
LARGEST MANUFACTURER OF BRANDED CHEESE AND A TOP MANUFACTURER OF DAIRY SPREADS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
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YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK
Keeping Dairy Top of Mind with Consumers BY AMERICAN DAIRY ASSOCIATION OF INDIANA AND UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN
H
alfway through 2020 and our world continues to be challenged by COVID-19. While all industries have been affected, agriculture has been thrust into the limelight with the dramatic toll the pandemic has taken on farmers, supply chains and retail. Your checkoff staff has continued to work with food banks to meet their growing needs and ensure available dairy foods make it into the hands of those who need it most. Reallocating funds to create online resources for partners, food service and retail has also been a priority to keep dairy relevant in these quickly changing times. Please know, your dairy checkoff staff at United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) and American Dairy Association Indiana (ADAI) continue to work hard on your behalf and alongside you during this pandemic. Our last update included the work our teams have done during the pandemic, and this update will dive deeper into some of those programs.
Retail In times of uncertainty, people turn to the bedrock items that they know will nourish themselves and their families, and dairy proved to be an important choice. From March 8 to March 22, as stay-at-home orders and business closures proliferated nationwide, dairy products flew from store shelves. Milk sales were 43% higher than the same period a year earlier. Yogurt rose 3%. Ice cream sales gained 40% and cheese 76%. Butter sales more than doubled during the same period.
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Gains have continued into the “new normal,” and take up more of consumer retail dollars than during the panic peak. Retail dairy sales from late March through May 17 remain 25% higher than a year ago, while overall grocery sales during that same period are only up 14% — meaning that at a time when people are relying more on grocers to fill their needs, they’re relying on dairy significantly more than they are on other products.
Virtual Connections As communication moved online, we wanted to make sure the experiential learning that makes such a difference in our audiences also made the transition. UDIM jumped to Instagram Live to connect with student athletes who were struggling with the abrupt cancellation of their sport. Allison Mankowski, sports dietitian for Eastern Michigan University, spoke to the students on nutrition strategies to use while they were at home. Chef Raphael from Rocket Fuel Nutrition made his favorite dairy-friendly recipes students could easily make themselves. Allison Schmitt talked with the students on mental health, sharing that she too struggles and that is okay to not be okay. We met with coaches via Zoom, sharing how nutrition is important for sports performance. Richard Browder, Food Service Director for Brighton School District, showed coaches how to work with school food service so students can maximize school meals to help with sports performance. He also shared some best practices, which included ordering
chocolate milk! Allison Schmitt also shared signals coaches can look for in student athletes to recognize depression. ADAI continues to develop ways to communicate online, where many consumers are spending even more of their time. To celebrate National Dairy Month, ADAI teamed up with local influencers “Indy with Kids” to visit a different dairy farm each Friday morning in June through Facebook Live. Their 50,000 followers get to see unique features of dairy farms across the state live with a farmer, and each episode concludes with an educational dairy craft or healthy activity. Dairy farmers also helped families pass the time and keep learning by reading their favorite story books live on Facebook. In both states, we tapped into our past success hosting virtual farm tours for classrooms. During COVID-19, we opened up the tours to everyone through Facebook Live events and increased communication with consumers online. In Indiana, our previously scheduled private tour for registered schools was converted to a Facebook Live event to allow parents to tune in with their children. Over 13,000 viewers have watched the tour to date, which garnered hundreds of live questions. Our Dairy Distance Learning campaign through social media continues to share resources with families at home, including Mooovie Monday videos, #DidYouKnow Tuesday facts, Breakbreak Wednesday activities, Clever Thursday crafts, and Foodie Friday recipes to follow along with throughout the week.
UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN
In Michigan, we hosted a farm tour through Facebook Live. The tour was promoted to teachers who could register their classes and through our social media properties so families could watch together. Around 20,000 people have watched the farm tour. More than 12,000 kids and parents tuned in to another Facebook Live event featuring a dairy-filled cooking demonstration and book reading by National Hockey League star Justin Abdelkader.
Sharing more dairy messages In Indiana, our work with health professionals like dietitians, physicians, hospitals and others often involved presentations or trips to a farm. In order to keep the education going, ADAI developed the Digital Dairy Series, a collection of live presentations covering a wide range of dairy nutrition and farming topics. We explored the complexity of today’s food choices and how our decisions are influenced by not only nutrition science, but also emotions, social media, availability and safety as we have seen during our current global pandemic. Seven online sessions featured five dynamic speakers and a live dairy farm tour, while including the opportunity for Continuing Education credits. To date, almost 1000 people have tuned in, with over 500 of them being unique and firsttime attendees of dairy events. Farmers were also called on to share their COVID-19 experiences in local news, with dairy farmer Kerry Estes opening his farm to Fox 59 News in Indianapolis about the struggles and resiliency of farmers during the pandemic. Jill Houin of Homestead Dairy also met with National FFA officers and Domino’s Procurement Department via Zoom to talk about the importance of partnerships and advocating for dairy.
The interview will be distributed to FFA chapters across the country, along with a worksheet for chapters to complete together. UDIM worked with Family Features to create two new relevant recipe features for national print and online publications. “Super Dairy Snacking” features familyfriendly dairy snacks that kids can help make and “Pantry Perfect Pastas” features recipes that use commonly purchased staples, such as pasta, beans, tomatoes – and, of course, dairy! Within 3 weeks, the snack feature had over 380 million impressions and the pasta feature had close to 300 million impressions. UDIM connected dairy farmers with media outlets across the state to talk about sustainable farming practices as we know the topic is still on the minds of consumers. Annie Link was interviewed about modern farming practices for Metro Parent, Dan VanDyke spoke about soil health and upcycling as a means of sustainability for MLive and Jolene Griffin talked about how cows are upcyclers with WDIV in Detroit. Sustainability messaging was tested with Conflicted Health Seekers through social media advertising and keyword targeting campaigns. In total, ads focusing on dairy’s environmental care and modern farm practices achieved 4.4 million impressions. All “clicks” directed to our sustainability web pages.
Providing Milk Coolers Through our longstanding work with food banks, we know milk is regularly requested and not often donated because of its perishability. As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many of our dairy farmers wanted to help in local areas and this pilot program allowed them to help a local food pantry.
UDIM awarded milk coolers to 18 food pantries to ensure they have proper storage for dairy foods for their clients, these food pantries were nominated by dairy farmers across the state. ADAI was able to connect five local food pantries with new refrigeration units to keep dairy products at the optimal temperature for their clients. Several of these pantries had not been able to provide dairy previously because of their lack of storage. Dairy farmers who applied on behalf of the pantries were able to help deliver them as well.
Virtual farm tours: INDIANA: WWW.WINNERSDRINKMILK.COM/ VIRTUAL-FARM-TOUR/ MICHIGAN: WWW.MILKMEANSMORE.ORG/ VIRTUAL-FARM-TOUR/
Resources On the National Milk Producers Federation website, you will find updates about COVID-19 (as of June 20) as it relates to dairy, including resources for your employees: NMPF.ORG/CORONAVIRUS
To get current information from your checkoff organization, contact your staff to be included on email updates and visit your state checkoff websites: INDIANA: ALLIE RIETH (RIETH@WINNERSDRINKMILK.COM) AND VISIT WWW.WINNERSDRINKMILK.COM MICHIGAN: JOLENE GRIFFIN (JOLENE@MILKMEANSMORE. ORG) AND VISIT WWW.MILKMEANSMORE.ORG
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FREELINERS AND CLASSIFIEDS.
TO SUBMIT ADS, CONTACT MMPA VIA EMAIL AT MESSENGER@MIMILK.COM OR FAX 248-426-3412 OR VISIT MIMILK.COM/FREELINER-CLASSIFIED.
freeliners
classifieds
Freeliners Policy
Classifieds Policy
The Freeliners column is open to current MMPA
Cost for classifieds is $25 for the first 35 words and then
members who wish to advertise—at no charge—
$5 for each additional word. Payment due with order.
goods or services relating directly to their dairy
All ads must be received by the 10th of the month
farm operations.
preceding desired month of publication. MMPA neither
• An item submitted will be published for no
sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Milk Messenger.
more than two consecutive months (one month, unless otherwise requested). After that, it will be withdrawn.
OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix your scabbled floors.
• It will be published again for no more than two
Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of
consecutive months only if the member resubmits
concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc.,
the item by writing or calling the Novi office.
Portland. 517-647-7381.
• 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. • 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 rate. • Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding desired month of publication.
PTO and Automatic Start Generators 1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419
DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: No water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. 3 operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361.
www.hamiltondist.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 29
FOR SALE: 18 REGISTERED HEIFERS starting to calve end of December. 989-467-0330. FOR SALE: 1250 MUELLER BULK TANK with washer and newer 5 hp. compressor with two fans; 2 in. lowline receiver stainless steel and 12 Delaval units
LEGENDAIRY.
and pulsator and a plate cooler. 15 Poly Square calf hutches. 810-404-8548.
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!
Concrete Grooving and Texturing Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202 Cell: 1-716-353-1137
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Non-GMO
products available
Contact merchandisers at ZFS, Inc: MI/IN/OH: 866.888.7082 WI: 800-523-6760 www.zfsinc.com/divisions/ingredients
CLASSIFIEDS - CONTINUED CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. 800-554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/texturing provides high quality
Limited Offering The MMPA Farm Supply Store has a limited supply of Berish hand sanitizer for sale. This is a basic 70% ethyl alcohol, fragrance-free hand sanitizer that is packaged in a 16.9 oz/500 mL flip top bottle. We all know that proper hand washing is important to our health but when soap and water isn’t available, hand sanitizer is the next best option. STOCK NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
PRICE
6305
BERISH GEL HAND SANITIZER 16.9 OZ
$8.62
traction in new and old concrete, fast service. Call
Special Orders
for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON
anytime day or night. Special on 2000 gal. Muellers
The MMPA Farm Supply Store is able to order many specialty parts from well-known vendors including Coburn, Schlueter, Udder Tech, E-Zee Milking and Nelson-Jameson. This gives us access to a large variety of parts and other needed items like milking claw parts, pulsator rebuild kits, milk pump rebuild kits, milking buckets and vacuum hoses. While most of these companies do not sell to individuals, they do have online catalogs that can help determine what parts are needed. Once you have decided on the item(s) you would like, simply give us a call with the part number and quantity and we will place the order for you. Listed below are websites for some of these companies. Review what they have to offer because you may be surprised by the selections available.
for $13,900 & up. 2700 & 4000 gal. Muellers call for
COBURN: WWW.COBURN.COM
quote. 800-558-0112.
SCHLUETER: SCHLUETERCO.COM
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
UDDER TECH: UDDERTECHINC.COM E-ZEE MILKING: EZMILKING.COM
STRAW & DRY HAY (large & small bales). Feed Oats,
NELSON-JAMESON: WWW.NELSONJAMESON.COM
Feed Barley and Corn Silage. Delivery Available.
If you have any questions about these or other products, please call 989-317-8370.
989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414. ALFALFA HAYLAGE (excellent & fair grades) & CORN SILAGE. 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.
THREE WAYS TO ORDER MMPA MERCHANDISE FROM THE FARM SUPPLY STORE
NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR, 60 KW, keep
1 Place your order through your milk hauler
everyone warm and producing if there is a power
HOOF TRIMMING - 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE.
2 Call in your order: Duane Farmer, Supervisor: 989-317-8370 Toll Free: 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi): 800-572-5824 then dial 2
Also doing fly control and cement grooving.
3 Fax in your order: 989-317-8372
outage. Call Brent at 248-770-5122.
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.
CHEMICAL, SANITIZER AND TEAT DIP CONTACTS These are SERVICE personnel only. Order your supplies through your hauler.
ECOLAB 24-Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 Service Message Center: 1-800-392-3392 Service Representatives: » Pat Mitchell – 517-403-0928 - 7273 N. Rollin Hwy., Addison, MI 49220 » Jason Wolfe – 540-553-5755 - 1890 Canter Drive, Riner, VA 24149
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MMPA STAFF
MMPA Field Staff
Novi Headquarters
Dean Letter, Newaygo, Member Services Director...................231-679-0337
Main Office Local line..............................................................................248-474-6672 Toll free................................................................................800-572-5824
Steve Lehman, Ithaca, Raw Milk Compliance.............................989-330-1638 Ben Chapin, Remus, Field Services Manager........................... 989-289-0731 Christy Dinsmoore, Vassar, Supervisor.....................................248-513-7920 Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI......................................................... 906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington, Animal Care.........................................231-519-2455 Laura Gucwa, Bad Axe................................................................ 248-826-6294 Ashley Herriman, Herron............................................................269-245-6632 Emily Peacock, Morley, Animal Care.......................................... 248-826-7243 Sarah Michalek, Dewitt, Sustainability Supervisor.................248-305-0537 Deb Gingrich, Leroy, Animal Care/Sustainability......................248-520-3580 Lindsay Green, East Lansing, Animal Care /Sustainability ......989-488-8159 Dave Brady, Grass Lake, Supervisor...........................................517-937-9061 Brandon Ewers, Coldwater, Sustainability.................................. 231-414-4539 John Lehman, Elsie, Bulk Tank Calibration................................248-444-6775 Joe Packard, Manchester, Animal Care.......................................248-520-3481 Brittni Tucker, Eagle.....................................................................248-880-3785
President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Diglio.......................................................................................ext. 202 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys...............................................................................ext. 240 Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt...........................................................................ext. 208 Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell...........................................................................ext. 304 Sales James Feeney................................................................................ext. 258 Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula.................................................................................. ext. 219 Quality Sudeep Jain...................................................................................ext. 249 Manufacturing Kaylan Kennel......................................................................248-880-5413 Member Services Emily Keranen...............................................................................ext. 203 Human Resources Kelly Kerrigan................................................................................ ext. 301
MMPA Labs
Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt........................................................................... ext. 210
Novi (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)
Communications Allison Stuby Miller.......................................................................ext. 296 Emily Kittendorf............................................................................ext. 234
In Michigan............................................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free.................................................................................800-233-2405 Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)............................................... 989-834-2515 Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.)................................... 800-391-7560
Farm Supply - Mt. Pleasant Supervisor: Duane Farmer, Mt. Pleasant 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, Mt. Pleasant.................................................. 989-289-9686 Farm Supply Sales Representative
Jake Riley, Mt. Pleasant......................................................... 248-912-5070
Corporate Controller Jeannie Strain................................................................................ ext. 311 Supply Chain Therese Tierney..............................................................................ext. 217 Member Relations Jessica Welch................................................................................ext. 303
Manufacturing Plants Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager...................................................269-435-2835
Ovid, Michigan Kaylan Kennel....................................................................... 989-834-2221 Middlebury Cheese Company, Middlebury, Indiana Bela Sandor, 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.
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Board of Directors Officers Doug Chapin, Board Chairman Tony Jandernoa Board Vice Chairman Eric Frahm, Treasurer Joe Diglio, President and CEO Josep Barenys, Asst. Board Treasurer Todd Hoppe, General Counsel Directors-At-Large Carlton Evans, Litchfield 517-398-0629 Aaron Gasper, Lowell 616-291-4092 Bruce Lewis, Jonesville 517-869-2877 Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453 Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420 District Directors 1 Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032 2 Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771 3 Bill Stakenas Freesoil 231-425-6913 4 Corby Werth Alpena 989-464-5436 5 Doug Chapin Remus 231-349-4059 6 Tony Jandernoa Fowler 989-593-2224 7 Eric Frahm Frankenmuth 989-652-3552 8 Scott Lamb Jeddo 810-327-6135
MEMBER MOMENT
Submit your Member Moment to messenger@mimilk.com
Dog Days of Summer A dog’s sloppy tongue meets calves’ twinkling eyes in a field of dandelions below a bright blue sky. The furry greeting is a playful scene, with dog and calves just saying, “Hi!” Photo by: Lisa Gildner, Alpena, Michigan
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Words by: Emily Kittendorf
milk messenger
/ JUL-AUG 2020
milk messenger / MAY-JUN 2020
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P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376
“Our team regularly assesses our product lineup to make sure we carry a wide variety to service our members. Our goal is to provide the tools our farms need to produce top quality milk.”
Shop online at www.mimilk.com/farm-supply-store.
— DUANE FARMER, FARM SUPPLY STORE SUPERVISOR
