Michigan Milk Messenger: October 2018

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. 101 | ISSUE 4 | OCTOBER 2018

2018 OYDCs

NANCY & PAUL

PYLE

ON POSITIVITY, PASSION & THE RIGHT MINDSET

mimilk.com

OCTOBER 2018 FEATURES

14 | THE PYLE’S UNDENIABLE PASSION

Nancy Pyle are following their passions and connecting

On the Cover Paul and Nancy Pyle were named MMPA’s 2018 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators.

Learn more about the Pyles and their farm on page 14.

2018 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators Paul and

with others on their farm in Zeeland, Michigan.

18 | THE SUMMER ADVENTURES OF DAISY

Daisy the MMPA Cow had a whirlwind summer traveling to

numerous events all over Michigan. Read more about her travels and stories from some of her stops along the way.

OUT SANDWICH MADE WITH 22 | INSIDE HERITAGE RIDGE CHEESE THE STAR OF THE INDIANA STATE FAIR DAIRY BAR

Fair food is enjoyed by many each summer at county and state fairgrounds, but Heritage Ridge Cheddar and Gouda cheese made an impression at the Indiana State Fair.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 1,700 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“Farmer-members know that, because

Possibilities of the Future

8

they have invested in the co-op; their milk has a home, seven days a week,

QUALITY WATCH Expectations Hinder you from Being

365 days a year.”

Prepared for the Unexpected

– JIM MULHERN, PRESIDENT & CEO, NMPF (PAGE 12)

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NEWS & VIEWS

12

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

DEPARTMENTS 30 POLICIES

24 25 29

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

31

QUALITY PREMIUMS

32

FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS

MMPA CLOTHING CATALOG

33

MERCHANDISE REPORT

34

MARKET REPORT

BREAKFAST ON THE FARM

35 STAFF

MMPA Core Values: » Quality » Integrity » Progress » Leadership » Community Managing Editor................................................ Sheila Burkhardt Editors.............................. Allison Stuby Miller, Krista Schrock Advertising Manager......................................Nancy Muszynski Circulation..................................................................................... 2,609 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.

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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002.

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OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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MMPA MATTERS

Possibilities of the Future

BY KEN NOBIS, MMPA PRESIDENT

October 1st marks the beginning of a new fiscal year for MMPA. While we don’t celebrate fiscal year beginnings like calendar year beginnings, it is a very important time in MMPA’s business planning cycle when we look forward and try to envision what the new year will bring for dairy producers who are in their fourth year of depressed margins. Rays of light that could signal an end to the economic plight are not easy to uncover, but there are at least some glimmers. So let’s take a look at a few areas that appear hopeful for the upcoming year and the reasons why those possibilities exist.

“A reputation for providing only highquality products is essential in building relationships that form the basis for establishing markets for our milk. MMPA members have established that reputation for quality excellence and will benefit from it.”

We have seen better-than-expected prices in the fourth quarter of 2018 despite the negative impact of the tariff skirmishes. Weather has had an impact on milk production in the U.S. and the European Union, causing milk supplies to have declined while consumption has remained constant. We don’t have control over the weather, but the mild summers of the past few years have played a role in production expansion. Some adverse weather around the globe is to be expected as part of a normal cycle - and maybe even secretly welcomed for its moderating impact on milk production, although we might not say that out loud.

One bright spot in our future is based on the success of our efforts working with Congress to allow for the use of one-percent flavored milk instead of fat-free flavored milk in schools. This will lead to more milk drinkers now and in years to come, and this will benefit not only our bottom line but also the health of the nation’s children.

Other efforts by the agriculture industry working with Congress to craft common sense legislation based on biotechnology appear to have taken some of the wind out of the sails of the anti-GMO forces. The resistance is still there but seems more manageable today.

MMPA continues to evolve as our member owners evolve in the way they manage their operations. MMPA producers meet and exceed the quality standards required by today’s consumer. Accepting and raising the quality bar has opened doors to new markets for our milk, both by the nature of the products and the geographic areas where they can be distributed. Quality milk has created the pathway to more valueadded products that will join the commodity-priced products we now have in place.

This will strengthen our members’ bottom lines in the very near future. A reputation for providing only high-quality products is essential in building relationships that form the basis for establishing markets for our milk. MMPA members have established that reputation for quality excellence and will benefit from it.

MMPA’s management staff continues to forge solid relationships with our customers.

As business practices beyond our farms change, our co-op changes. The days are gone when a customer would simply place an order and MMPA would fill it. Cooperation and communication between MMPA and its customers are ongoing. Continuous adaptations happen every day to meet today’s economic challenges as we fulfill MMPA’s mission to market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.

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MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

QUALITY WATCH

Expectations hinder you from being prepared for the unexpected

BY LINDSAY GREEN, ANIMAL CARE COORDINATOR

When it comes to getting standard operating procedures (SOPs) or, more simply put, written chore directions in place on farms, it has been said time and time again, “Well I’m the only one who does chores.” Or, “If something happens to me the cows will be gone.”

“While it may seem unnecessary to have written directions when the same people have been doing chores for many years, what happens in the event they aren’t there?”

While it may seem unnecessary to have written directions when the same people have been doing chores for many years, what happens in the event they aren’t there? Do you have family members cross trained? Cow nutrition for example, is a fairly precise job and every dairyman has their own way of doing it. Would someone else, through either training or a written standard operating procedure be able to pick up where you left off tomorrow morning? You may think it will never be necessary but neither did Rachel Foley of Rainbow Creek Farms.

In 2016, Rachel’s father passed away suddenly in a farming accident and she woke the next morning with no idea how to feed the cows. You see, she had made an SOP book at the request of her field representative but thinking it would never be needed, she did not include the detail suggested. They worked with nutritionists and Rachel had the basics but didn’t know the details and it ended up costing their herd 25 percent of its production for a time. MMPA encourages producers to write their SOPs as if someone with basic farm skills, who had never done their job before could read the document and carry out the tasks as if nothing had changed. Having these documents in place not only prepares you and your operation for the unexpected but for larger operations they can also be utilized for employee training and consistency in job duties across shifts.

In addition to the benefits at the farm level as a part of National Milk Producers Federation Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (F.A.R.M.) program, having standard operating procedures in place assures the animals on your operation will continue to be cared for in the event of an emergency or unforeseen event. This is an area of F.A.R.M. program our customers inquire about. Just as they have SOPs for their plant operations and food safety protocols, they want assurance there are plans in place at the farm level for animal care. While the farm seems a long way from the end product, it truly is the first step in the production of consumable goods and the need for SOPs has now reached to every step of the process.

We know time is precious, especially on the farm, so MMPA has created resources to make the process of creating your SOPs simple. There is a fill-in-the-blank document available you can complete on your own or with assistance from our field staff. You may also find SOP resources at www.nationaldairyfarmprogram.com.

Here you can find sample SOPs you can use as a template to create SOPs for your operation if you choose to have customized documents for your operation. If you have questions or would like to get your SOP documents completed, contact your field representative or an animal care coordinator.

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MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

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OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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NEWS & VIEWS Producers scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A surveys and Federal Check Ratings Drayton Family Dairy LLC * Stanley Grzybowski Pirman Corner Farm Inc * Slowpoke Farm LLC Carson Acres LLC Mark Rottier Doug / Shelly Ekkel Norris Dairy Farm Inc * Green Vale Farm - Dairy Sueann Higgins Ackerberg Farms Holtrop Dairy LLC Klamer Farms Inc * Paul / Carol Courtade Beuschel Fruit & Dairy LLC L & E Robinson Farms LLC Robert Wackernagel Udderside Dairy LLC Glen, Casey, Andrew Sparks * *100 percent

“Cooperatives See the Future” during 2018 Cooperative Month October is National Cooperative Month, celebrated

by MMPA and other cooperatives nationwide with the 2018 theme: Cooperatives See the Future.

Cooperatives represent a strong business model and greatly contribute to both the national and local economies. Studies show that consumers want to do business with companies that share their values, making today’s environment ideal for cooperatives and their commitment to the communities in which their members live and work.

Did you know?

• One out of three Americans is a member of a cooperative.

• There are 2,106 agriculture co-ops in the U.S., with more than 2 million member-owners.

• There are more than 40,000 cooperative businesses in the United States with 350 million members (many people belong to more than

August prices up from July

one co-op). These cooperatives generate $514 billion in revenue and

The USDA announced that the August Class III milk price was $14.95 per hundredweight, up 85 cents from July’s price, but $1.62 less than August 2017. The Class IV price was $14.63, 49 cents higher than last month’s price, but $1.98 lower than last August. The USDA also said the Margin Protection Program margin for July was $6.7182 per hundredweight.

Producers who enrolled at the $7 coverage level or higher will receive a payout.

more than $25 billion in wages, according to a study conducted by

Upcoming Events October 29-31

NDB/NMPF/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting, November 20

Leaders’ Conference

the University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives, with support from USDA Rural Development.

MMPA plants once again demonstrate commitment to quality through SQF Two MMPA member-owned assets recently demonstrated their commitment to quality through recertification in Level 3 Safe Quality Foods (SQF) with “Excellent” ratings. Level 3 is the highest possible rating available through SQF. The goal of SQF is to help processors assess risk in food processing facilities while limiting food safety incidents.

MSU Department of Animal Science seeks nominations for 2019 Dairy Farmer of the Year Nominations for the 2019 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. It is presented annually to a dairy farmer to recognize the recipient(s) ongoing efforts at managing an outstanding dairy operation and strengthening the Michigan dairy industry and their surrounding communities. The deadline to submit nominations is November 1. Nominations can be submitted by producers, family members, professionals, agri-business firms or other individuals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT TED FERRIS FERRIS@MSU.EDU OR VISIT WWW.MSUE.MSU.EDU.

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MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

Tom Herremans Named MDMSF Honoree The late Tom Herremans, a native to Ravenna, Michigan, was named a Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation honoree in September. An MMPA employee for over 30 years, Herremans grew up on a dairy farm and went on to have a long and accomplished career in the dairy industry through his intense focus on milk quality and mastitis management. As a mastitis management specialist, Tom used his passion for teaching to develop Milker Training Schools for the MMPA membership.

He fostered other MMPA member representatives as well as farms with his unique excitement for udder health and lowering herd somatic cell counts.

Herremans also trained member representatives on the aspects of mastitis management and milking systems performance to help MMPA member farms. Herremans passed away in March 2018.

Benthem Brothers Inc. to be featured on World Dairy Expo virtual tour World Dairy Expo Virtual Farm Tours have been bringing the best dairy operations in North America to Madison, Wisconsin for more than 15 years. An MMPA member farm, Benthem Brothers, Inc. in McBain, Michigan, is among the eight selected this year. The farm – which features a 60-cow rotary parlor – will be showcased on October 6 during the World Dairy Expo. Benthem Brothers, Inc. won a gold quality award from MMPA in 2017 and is certified in livestock systems through the Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance program.

Herremans becomes a Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation Honoree and given appropriate recognition following donations to the Foundation in his name. A plaque with Herremans’ picture will be permanently displayed in the Pavilion at Michigan State University, and his name will be permanently listed on a plaque in Anthony Hall.

Dairy product consumption slips, yet per capita butter consumption at 50 year high USDA released 2017 dairy product consumption data in September that showed overall consumption falling 2 lbs. per capita on a milk equivalent basis. Since 1985, U.S. fluid milk consumption has been unchanged to lower, and 2017 consumption remained on trend. Last year, Americans consumed 149 lbs. of milk, or just over 17 gallons, down 3.2 percent from 2016 levels.

However, consumption performance varied by product. Year-over-year sales of whole milk increased to 15.8 million pounds in 2017, 2.8 percent more than the previous year, after adjusting for leap day. But declines from skim, 1%, and 2% milks more than offset increases in the other categories.

Consumption of butter and yogurt, at 5.7 lbs. and 13.7 lbs. per capita, respectively, remained unchanged in 2017 compared to 2016.

Despite unchanged year-over-year butter consumption in 2017, consumption per capita remained at its highest level in five decades. U.S. cheese consumption in 2017 at 44.7 lbs. per capita just edged out 2016 levels at 44.2 lbs.

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

THE POWER AND IMPORTANCE OF

HANGING TOGETHER

BY JIM MULHERN, PRESIDENT & CEO, NATIONAL MILK PRODUCERS FEDERATION

T

he increasing number of news stories in the past year focused on dairy farmers losing their milk markets has brought into sharp focus the crucial role cooperatives play in protecting their members’ economic interests.

“The need for critical mass among farmers as a countervailing force in the marketplace is one reason why 81 percent of the milk produced in the United States is marketed through cooperatives.”

As economic disruptions among some private milk handlers have cascaded downstream, hundreds of independent dairy farmers have been left in the lurch by their buyers. Some co-ops have lost contracts, as well. While both have been hurt, the greatest harm has befallen those independent direct-ship producers who were not co-op members. Many are now finding it difficult to secure a new buyer in a saturated market.

The affected cooperatives have scrambled to find new outlets for their displaced milk, but finding markets for milk is what cooperatives do, day in and day out. Farmer-members know that, because they have invested in the co-op; their milk has a home, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Even in those temporary situations where milk deliveries exceed processing capacity and some milk must be dumped, the co-op members know they still have steady, predictable access to markets for their milk, thanks to the crucial role played by cooperatives.

There are some parallels in the current situation to what farmers faced more than 100 years ago, when co-ops first rose to prominence in the U.S. dairy marketplace. Even back then, when milk marketing was a much more

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MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

local enterprise, the milk (in cans, not tankers) was leaving farms on a daily basis and farmers were at a competitive disadvantage to processors who, because they were fewer in number and purchased large milk volumes, could drive hard bargains with their suppliers, with their highly perishable and bulky product to sell.

This competitive dynamic not only led farmers to band together to start up cooperative businesses, it also prompted those co-ops to form the National Milk Producers Federation in 1916 to have representation in Washington. Twenty years later, NMPF led the charge to create the federal milk marketing order system to level the playing field for farms of different sizes and in different parts of the country. This has ensured a more equitable means of reaching consumer markets for farms of varying sizes, and has harmonized pay prices among producers, regardless of the end use of their milk.

Milk marketing today isn’t the smallscale, county-by-county business it once was. For that matter, neither is food retailing, as producers – regardless of commodity – must contend with the market dominance of a handful of powerful manufacturers, supermarket chains and foodservice enterprises that loom large in scale over any one dairy cooperative.

The need for critical mass among farmers as a countervailing force in the marketplace is one reason why 81 percent of the milk produced in the United States is marketed

through cooperatives. That figure hasn’t changed markedly in the past two decades, in fact it’s even higher than it was 75 years ago. The United States also has a wide range of dairy farm sizes which are able, through cooperatives, to work together to market their milk.

just serving as contract suppliers to a vertically owned processor, as is common across the livestock sector.

Put simply, the cooperative business structure is good for farm families and consumers.

The strong role of dairy co-ops also allows them to form endeavors such In filling this crucial role of counteras Cooperatives Working Together balancing the power of milk buyers, (CWT), the 15-year-old self-help cooperatives have become one of program that its members recently the most important parts of the total voted to extend for an additional three marketing channel that delivers years. CWT is a unique cooperative fresh milk and dairy products from venture that allows its members – and farm to table. Dairy only those farmercooperatives are the owned businesses – to COOPERATIVES CAN’T primary assemblers of pool their resources DEFY MARKET FORCES milk from individual to bolster exports – THE ECONOMIC dairy farms for delivery without the red tape to plants – either co-op that comes with LAWS OF SUPPLY AND or privately owned – government programs.

DEMAND ARE REAL, where it is processed We know from AND WE SEE THEM PLAY into a wide variety of repeated comments OUT CONSTANTLY. BUT products. that dairy exporters FOR MORE THAN 100 in other nations are Cooperatives operate YEARS, DAIRY CO-OPS envious of CWT’s complex logistical HAVE BEEN PROVIDING role in helping U.S. operations that balance CONSISTENT MARKETS products compete and the supplies of milk win business deals FOR THEIR MEMBERS coming from the around the world.

WHO PRODUCE nation’s dairy farms with the delivery Looking back on my THE MOST HIGHLY requirements of nearly 40 years in PERISHABLE OF ALL the nation’s dairy dairy, it’s clear to me MAJOR COMMODITIES. product processors, that we’ve taken for requirements that granted the critical change seasonally, weekly, daily and role co-ops play in our industry. even hourly. There are economic costs Cooperatives can’t defy market forces borne by cooperatives for this market – the economic laws of supply and balancing function, but the farmerdemand are real, and we see them member benefit is a daily market for play out constantly. But for more all their milk – a market that some than 100 years, dairy co-ops have independent dairymen tragically no been providing consistent markets longer have. for their members who produce the most highly perishable of all major The role of cooperatives is a big reason commodities. Today, at a time of lost why the dairy farmer’s share of the markets and economic stress in the retail dollar is higher than for most dairy producer community, that’s a other food commodities. It’s also a lesson worth remembering. reason why more than 95 percent of dairy operations remain family-owned and controlled businesses, rather than

MMPA Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Scott Ferry, Litchfield............................517-214-3298 Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610 Brad Hart, Clayton..................................517-445-2649 Daniel Minnis, Dansville.......................517-521-3529 Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015

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.......574-825-5198

DISTRICT 3 Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-520-5143 Bill Stakenas, Free Soil...........................231-425-6913 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988 Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610

DISTRICT 4 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................425-533-8106 Jeremy Werth, Alpena...........................989-464-4022 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957 Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694

DISTRICT 5 Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794 Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287 Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-920-1615 Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496

DISTRICT 6 David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023 Mike Halfman, St. Johns.......................989-640-1962 Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-690-1075 Brad Ritter, Byron....................................586-405-4749

DISTRICT 7 John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264 Rodney Fowler, Chesaning.................989-302-2299 Scott Kleinhardt, Clare..........................989-386-8037 Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670 Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974

DISTRICT 8 Bill Blumerich, Berlin.............................810-706-2955 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718 Mike Noll, Croswell.................................810-404-4071

SOURCE: NMPF

Jeremy Sharrard, Peck...........................810-404-5076 Nick Leipprandt, Pigeon......................517-897-4155

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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THE PYLE’S UNDENIABLE PASSION 14

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

Paul and Nancy Pyle, of Pyle Dairy Farm, Inc., don’t just follow their passions, they use their passions to inspire others.

He’s a sixth-generation dairy farmer and she’s a preschool program director. Together, they built a life for their family on a 140-cow dairy near the edge of Zeeland, Michigan.

“We try to influence each other simply by the way we live and having a positive outlook on life. How can I encourage you?” Nancy said. “We seek ways to connect to others in an industry that can be so lonely.”

“Let others build into you, while you build into others,” Paul adds.

This pursuit led the Pyles to enter in the MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator (OYDC) program. The 68-year-old leadership development initiative is a stepping stone for many cooperative leaders. This year, Paul and Nancy were named the winning OYDC and will go on to represent MMPA nationally.

A 17 Decade Farming Legacy Paul spends his days on land settled 170 years ago by a 22-year-old Dutch immigrant. Paul — along with his father and brother — run a modern dairy farm, continuing the legacy of Paul’s great-greatgreat-grandfather Hendrick Pijl.

Brought over to the U.S. on the boat Scandia, Hendrick was a co-founder of Zeeland and part of the wave of Dutch immigrants destine for West Michigan.

But it’s not easy to sustain the lifestyle established six generations ago. New challenges and global pressures soar up the gravel driveway faster than the horses-andbuggies of 1848 ever could. Milk prices are globalized, not localized and dairy farmers today feel the implications of decisions made many miles from their farms.

“I think our family legacy helps us endure the ups and downs of the farming industry. We're not quick to give up this lifestyle. We believe God placed our family here for a reason,” Paul said.

As Paul and his brother, Nate, became more involved in the farm, they increased their herd (CONTINUED ON PAGE 16)

PAUL AND NANCY PYLE, 2018 OYDC, ON POSITIVITY, PASSION AND THE RIGHT MINDSET

BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

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PAUL AND HIS ELDEST DAUGHTER, EMILY

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15)

count to support three families.

Responsibilities are split between the three Pyle men, with Paul specializing in herd health, nutrition and breeding.

“The year we got married, we were still milking in tie-stalls,” says Paul, who married Nancy in 2004. In the months before the wedding, they built a new freestall barn and parlor and strategically doubled their cow numbers internally over the next five years. Today, they milk two times per day in a double eight parallel parlor using technology to monitor their production on the computer in real-time.

Cow comfort is a core part of the farm’s mission, along with producing a high-quality product and being “good stewards of God’s creation.” They do a herd health check with their veterinarian once per month and have written protocols to be ready for any situation.

“Caring for cows is important, our cow comfort has to be high,” he said. “We don’t skimp on things to save money in ways that will sacrifice production. You may save a nickel, but you lost a dollar.”

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MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

PAUL PYLE

Dairying with the Right Mindset It’s been said, “if you love what you do, then you never work a day in your life.” For some that can be hard to imagine, but as Paul struggled to pick just one favorite thing about being a dairy farmer, he may be the one to embody the phrase.

“I just love seeing how Paul values what he does so much,” Nancy said.

“He’s not going to work, it’s a lifestyle and a passion. He doesn’t come home and complain – ever.”

Nancy’s leadership in education also provides a supportive perspective in their life on the farm. With two diplomas — a bachelor’s and master’s — in education, she has worked at Zeeland Christian Schools for over a decade and is currently the Preschool Director.

“There’s a term in education called a growth mindset. People with a ‘fixed mindset’ think you can either do it or you can’t. A growth mindset means you think you can continue to learn and grow,” Nancy said. A growth mindset tends to thrive on challenges and views failure as a “heartening springboard for growth and for stretching our existing abilities,” according to psychology research.

The couple attests in the dairy business, this personal growth mindset

“Our family legacy helps us endure the ups and downs of the farming industry.

We’re not quick to give up this lifestyle. We believe God placed our family here for a reason,” Paul said.

is needed to embrace challenges and continually improve through hard work. On Pyle Dairy Farm, new and evolving obstacles are addressed with this mindset.

No one on the farm is a veterinarian, yet they’ve learned to diagnose illnesses, administer IVs and treat sick animals.

No one on the farm is a trained mechanic, yet they’ve learned to seek answers and fix almost anything. And when the next thing comes along to shake up their farming practices, the Pyles will surely learn to “stretch their abilities” and find the right solution.

Preparing the Seventh Generation The paramount for the Pyles is their children. They say their chief accomplishment won’t be from any success on the farm, but from raising their kids right. “That’s bigger to us than farming,” Paul said.

They enjoy raising their five kids – Emily, Andrew, Megan, Chelsea and James – on the farm and the work ethic it instills in them. Nancy says she wants them to develop the growth mindset to be passionate and always learning and growing.

Further, the seventh generation of Pyles is gaining a world perspective through their education. Paul and Nancy’s children are enrolled in a language immersion program and are becoming fluent in Mandarin Chinese. They are learning not only the language, but about Chinese culture from their teachers as well.

All students at the school also receive Spanish language instruction.

“The brain is a muscle. When children learn a new language before puberty, they build pathways for learning that monolingual children don’t build,” Nancy said. She helped get the school’s language immersion program off the ground. “Even if they don’t continue using Mandarin long-term, their brains have stayed open and have been formed differently.”

Just as the dairy industry is globalized, Paul and Nancy see how it’s important for their children to be able to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures in their future. “If you can speak Spanish, Mandarin and English you can speak to 75 percent of the world,” she continued.

Connections Beyond their Barn The OYDC program is not the Pyle’s first foray off the farm. They both speak to the value of community and agriculture industry involvement. “For the guys it can be hard to think big picture when you’re so stuck working on the day-to-day tasks,” Nancy said.

“That’s where being involved in outside organizations is important,” Paul adds. “You’re seeing what people do differently. You have to see beyond your own barn. Build relationships and allow people to speak into you.”

Paul was a board member and president of the Ottawa County Farm Bureau and is currently chair of the county’s policy development committee. He graduated from the Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) ProFILE Young Farmer Leadership Institute and is on the MFB state study committee. Since 2015, Paul has been on the boards of directors for the Farmers Co-op Elevator Company and the Critter Barn.

Both Paul and Nancy are active in their local church and Nancy holds leadership positions with her school.

She is the early childhood education partner with Ready for School and the educational leadership team member at Zeeland Christian School.

“That’s the biggest parts of our lives,” Paul said about community and agriculture involvement. “I’ve grown more through off the farm stuff.”

“I’ve seen him blossom in a totally different way,” Nancy adds. “It’s fun to sit back and where I lead at school, he can do that in his own field too.”

The couple looks forward to the further involvement at MMPA that starts with the OYDC program.

The initial OYDC conference in August gave OYDC finalists a look into their cooperative through discussions with co-op leaders and a tour of the offices and milk testing laboratory. Up next for Paul and Nancy is participation in the Joint Annual Meeting of the National Milk Producers Federation and national dairy checkoff organizations.

As the Pyles continue development on and off the farm, their positivity and passion will surely be the driver.

“We work to better ourselves and society,” Nancy said. “We want others to see that we love God and serve others in how we live our lives.”

Nancy and Paul Pyle Pyle Dairy Farm, Inc., Zeeland, Michigan, West Michigan Local, District 3 Herd and Land: Milk 140 cows and farm 256 acres

Proud parents of five children: Emily (11) Andrew (10) Megan (8) Chelsea (6) James (5)

SELECTION FOR THE 2019 OUTSTANDING YOUNG DAIRY COOPERATOR PROGRAM BEGINS THIS WINTER DURING LOCAL MEETINGS. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN THE PROGRAM, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL. LEARN MORE AT MIMILK.COM/YOUNG-COOPERATORS.

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

17

THE

SUMMER ADVENTURES

Daisy

OF

BY KRISTA SCHROCK

“WHAT IS BEING TOWED BEHIND THAT TRUCK? HOLY COW, IT’S A GIANT COW!”

M

any times while transporting Daisy to events, members hear comments about how big she is or how they can’t believe a cow is traveling down the road. Daisy typically draws a lot of attention and makes a big impression everywhere she visits.

Members say she helps start consumer conversations about dairy farming.

In the summer of 2018, Daisy visited 18 fairs, festivals, parades, farmers markets and farm tours all over Michigan. Some were quick day trips and some overnight stays but regardless of how long Daisy visited, she could easily be spotted standing over 11 feet tall on her trailer.

MMPA members were challenged to use the large fiberglass cow in their summer dairy promotion efforts and to share their experiences. We tracked her movements from event to event all over Michigan totaling almost 2,500 miles in just five months.

Daisy made lots of new friends and was welcomed back by old pals in 2018 and is already looking forward to next year.

MEMBERS INTERESTED IN RESERVING DAISY FOR A 2019 EVENT, CONTACT: NANCY MUSZYNSKI MUSZYNSKI@MIMILK.COM 248-474-6672, EXT. 202

April 23-27 Manchester, MI

June 4-6 Blanchard, MI

May 16-21 Millington, MI

18

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

June 22-26 Ray, MI

June 14-18 Blanchard, MI

June 7-13 Battle Creek, MI

June 20 Constantine, MI

July 3-5 Hadley, MI

Member Stories

Rural Education Days

Cereal Festival

Fourth of July Parade

in Manchester, Michigan

in Battle Creek, Michigan

in Hadley, Michigan

“Washtenaw County Farm Bureau Rural Education Days was another success! It would not have happened without the over 300 volunteers that help us before, during and after this educational experience for the county. More than 2,000 third graders, chaperones and teachers from 21 different school attended this three-day event.

Daisy has joined us for at least 14 years and is always a hit with the groups,” said Lyn Horning from Manchester, Michigan.

What goes best with a bowl of cereal? Milk of course!

MMPA’s Daisy, with the help of Larry Crandall of Battle Creek, Michigan joined the Annual Cereal Festival held in downtown Battle Creek for the eighth time to promote dairy products.

“Seeing Daisy is always a big thing for families, especially the kids. They love standing next to her to have their picture taken,” recalled Crandall. “Even a man on stilts took the time to have his picture taken with her.”

“Daisy was a unique addition to our July fourth parade in Hadley, Michigan. Township officials commented on how nice it was to see an ag related, particularly dairy, float. As Daisy traveled the parade route through town, people were excited to see her.

Kids pointed and waved saying, ‘look at the cow!’ and ‘that's where milk comes from!’ During the parade we stopped to allow people to come up and take pictures with Daisy,” said Susan Stewart of Hadley, Michigan.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet,

DAISY TRAVELED

2,468 MILES OVER THE SUMMER

July 17-18 East Lansing, MI

Aug. 2-5 Deckerville, MI

Aug. 2 Alma, MI

Aug. 20-24 Manchester, MI

Aug. 6-12 Lowell, MI

Aug. 27-Sept. 4 Novi, MI

Aug. 25-26 Paw Paw, MI

Sept. 7-9 Ovid, MI

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

19

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INSIDE OUT SANDWICH MADE WITH HERITAGE RIDGE CHEESE THE STAR OF THE

INDIANA STATE FAIR DAIRY BAR

BY KRISTA SCHROCK

H

eritage Ridge Creamery cheddar cheese on the outside of two slices of garlic bread with plenty of gouda in between made for a delicious, gooey meal choice at the 2018 Indiana State Fair. Dubbed the “inside out grilled cheese,” the sandwich was the most recent Ultimate Grilled Cheese contest winner selected by a panel of judges.

It made its way on the menu in the Dairy Bar food stand along with classic favorites such as American cheese on white and Colby Jack on rye bread.

22

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

The Dairy Bar first opened at the 1941 Indiana State Fair, serving all the milk you could drink for ten cents. The current structure, built in 2003, pays homage to Indiana’s historic round dairy barns.

Although the Dairy Bar menu has changed over the years, milk has always been a staple. The menu also features grilled cheese sandwiches, milkshakes, yogurt, hand-dipped ice cream and mozzarella cheese sticks.

earning money for their organizations.

This year, they had more than 20 groups manning the windows and grills. Each day, a local celebrity, like Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch, also took a turn serving up dairy treats at the Dairy Bar. Those who ordered at the “celebrity window,” received their grilled cheese sandwiches for free but were asked to donate towards the Great American Milk Drive. During the 17-day fair, $2,900 was donated to the cause.

The Dairy Bar is staffed by volunteers who love dairy and are interested in

The 2019 Indiana State Fair will be held August 2-18.

2018 Indiana State Fair Dairy Bar Facts 44,252 GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICHES SOLD

4,500

4

POUNDS OF

TYPES OF

HERITAGE RIDGE CREAMERY

MILK SHAKES

CHEESE USED

12,865 INSIDE OUT CHEESE SANDWICHES SOLD

10

8

20

VARIETIES OF

TYPES OF SANDWICHES TO CHOOSE FROM

MILKSHAKE MACHINES

CHEESE USED

THE “GREAT DAIRY MOO-MENTS IN CHEESE HISTORY” SCULPTURE, CARVED BY SARAH KAUFMANN, WAS ON DISPLAY AT THIS YEAR’S FAIR. IT WEIGHS IN AT ALMOST HALF A TON.

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

23

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

Undeniably Dairy Tour Travels Around Southeast Michigan THE UNITED DAIRY INDUSTRY OF MICHIGAN (UDIM) AND ENTERCOM, FORMERLY CBS RADIO, ONCE AGAIN BROUGHT THE UNDENIABLY DAIRY TOUR TO CONSUMER EVENTS ACROSS SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN WHERE THEY SUCCESSFULLY PROMOTED DAIRY FOODS AND DAIRY FARMING. ENTERCOM PROVIDED STAFFING AT EACH EVENT AND PROMOTED THE EVENTS DURING THEIR RADIO PROGRAMMING, HELPING REACH MORE CONSUMERS WITH DAIRY MESSAGES.

I

n the Undeniably Dairy tent, staff connects with consumers to show the joy of dairy’s goodness, share nutrition facts, discuss how Michigan farm families care for their cows and the environment and ensure milk is safe. Visitors are able to practice their skills on a cow-milking simulator, sample dairy treats, win prizes, ask dairy questions and enter to win a year’s supply of free dairy foods.

The Undeniably Dairy Tour season began on “Flower Day” at the Eastern Market in downtown Detroit at the end of May. This event typically

attracts over 150,000 people of all ages. Those who stopped by the Undeniably Dairy tent sampled yogurt smoothies and collected dairy-rich recipes.

appearance from Miss Moo, Entercom’s version of the Milk Means More mascot Mootilda.

The next stop was the Lacrosse American’s LAX House Games in midJune. Eighty-four teams of boys and girls, ages 18 and under, from around the state and region met in Ann Arbor.

The Undeniably Dairy display was located in a busy, high-energy area where staff passed out chocolate milk and discussed its nutritional benefits.

Full teams stopped by the display to refuel after their games and tried their hand at the cow-milking simulator.

In July, the tour also visited the USSSA Girls Fastpitch softball tournament in Canton. UDIM staff encouraged milk

The tour stopped in Livonia at the Michigan FunFest, a cultural event that features live music across several genres, multicultural food booths and many forms of entertainment. The event was an opportunity to share the dairy message with a diverse population of attendees, particularly the Middle Eastern culture. At the Undeniably Dairy tent, guests enjoyed flavored yogurt smoothies and an consumption post-game to middle and high school girls, a demographic that is generally lacking in calcium. Players, parents and other attendees enjoyed Yup! flavored milk samples. As with all tour stops, the milking simulator and prize machine were a big hit. The athletes were encouraged to follow the Conquer with Milk Instagram account, which targets teenage girls.

At the Woodward Dream Cruise, the largest one-day automotive event in North America, car enthusiasts enjoyed ice cream samples while Miss Moo toured Woodward Avenue in a classic convertible.

The tour will continue at events later this year, with participation in the Erebus Haunted House in Pontiac and the Battle at Ford Field in Detroit.

EASTERN MARKET FLOWER DAY VISITORS ENJOYED A REFRESHING YOGURT SMOOTHIE.

24

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

CLOTHING CATALOG

K500

L500

K500 – Silk Touch Shirt

L500 – Ladies Silk Touch Sport Shirt

An enduring favorite, this comfortable classic sport shirt is anything but ordinary. Superior wrinkle and shrink resistance.

• 5-ounce, 65/35 poly/cotton pique • Flat knit collar and cuffs • Metal buttons with dyed-to-match plastic rims • Double-needle armhole seams and hem • Side vents • Colors: White*, Light Pink, Tropical Pink, Hibiscus, Red*, Burgundy*, Maroon, Banana*, Gold, Texas Orange, Orange, Light Stone, Stone*, Coffee Bean, Light Blue*, Ultramarine Blue, Maui Blue, Mediterranean Blue, Royal*, Navy*, Purple, Eggplant, Lime, Mint Green, Kelly Green, Court Green, Clover Green, Dark Green*, Bark, Steel Gray, Cool Gray*, Black • Sizes XS-6XL available in all colors.

• Sizes LT-4XLT available in * colors.

An enduring favorite, this comfortable classic sport shirt is anything but ordinary. Superior wrinkle and shrink resistance.

• 5-ounce, 65/35 poly/cotton pique • Flat knit collar and cuffs • Metal buttons with dyed-to-match plastic rims • Double-needle armhole seams and hem • Side vents • Sizes: XS-6XL (available in all colors)

Price: $18.50

Price: $18.50

Please Note: All clothing will have the MMPA logo embroidered on it.

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 A T OCTOBER I O N 2018 | MESSENGER

25

MMPA CLOTHING CATALOG

J705

L705

J763

J705 - Textured Soft Shell Jacket

J763 - Duck Cloth Work Jacket

Perfect for everyday wear. Super soft and flexible, these jackets deliever pure comfort as well as water and wind protection.

The raglan silhouette gives you optimum range of motion, while the angled zipped chest pocket adds visual appeal.

Tough enough to do the job, this work jacket layers easily over shirts and jackets so it’s great for mild or harsh weather.

• 1000MM waterproof rating, 100G/M2 breathability rating • Storm flap with chin guard, ergonomic zipper pulls

• Hood with dyed-to-match drawcord, rib knit cuffs and waistband.

• Zipped chest pocket, eront zippered pockets

• Front hand warmer pockets.

• Spandex-trimmed cuffs, open hem with drawcord and toggles for adjustability.

• Colors: Duck Brown, Navy, Black

• Sizes: XS-4XL

Price: $60.00

• Colors: Black, Insignia Blue, Cafe Brown, Stone

Price: $56.00 L705 - Ladies Textured Soft Shell Jacket Gently contoured silhouette, Princess seams • Open hem

• 12-ounce, 100% cotton duck cloth, 6-ounce polyfill nylon lining for added warmth.

• Sizes: XS-6XL

J763H - Navy Hooded Work Jacket Tough enough to do the job, this work jacket layers easily over shirts and jackets so it’s great for mild or harsh weather.

• 12-ounce, 100% cotton duck cloth, 6-ounce polyfill nylon lining for added warmth.

• Hood with dyed-to-match drawcord, rib knit cuffs and waistband.

• Ladies Sizes: XS-4XL

Price: $56.00

• Front hand warmer pockets.

• Colors: Duck Brown, Navy, Black • Sizes: XS-6XL

Price: $63.00

Please Note: All clothing will have the MMPA logo embroidered on it.

26

J763H

MESSENGER | OCTOBER M I2018 CH

IGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

MMPA CLOTHING CATALOG

8900

S608

8900 - Summit Jacket The Summit jacket features a shell constructed of windproof/water resistant polyurethane-coated heavyweight Toughlan® nylon, and is lined with super heavyweight 11.5 oz.

Anti-pilling panda fleece. Also features contrasting color on front and back panel, full storm and outer placket, plus two front pockets with zippers and one inner right chest pocket with zipper. Elastic waistband.

Velcro cuff closure. Hood is easily concealed in collar.

Price: $59.00

S608 – Easy Care Shirts These comfortable wash-and wear shirts are indispensiable for the workday. Wrinkle resistant. 4.5 ounce, 55/45 cotton/poly, button down collar, dyed-to-match buttons, patch pocket, box back pleat.

• Colors: White*, Light Pink, Tropical Pink, Hibiscus, Red*, Burgundy*, Yellow, Gold, Athletic Gold, Texas Orange, Light Stone*, Stone*, Coffee Bean, Light Blue*, Royal*, Navy*, Classic Navy, Purple, Eggplant, Court Green, Clover Green, Dark Green*, Steel Gray, Black*

PC90H

• Sizes XS-6XL avaliable in all colors.

• Sizes LT-4XLT available in * colors.

Price: $24.30 PC90H – Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt 9-ounce, 50/50 cotton/poly fleece. Dyed-to-match drawcord (Ash and Athletic Heather have white drawcord) • Adult Sizes: S-4XL • Colors: White, Ash, Athletic Heather, Gold, Orange, Dark Chocolate Brown, Red, Cardinal, Maroon, Pale Pink, Purple, Royal, Navy, Safety Green, Kelly Green, Dark Green, Black.

Price: $27.00

Please Note: All clothing will have the MMPA logo embroidered on it.

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 A T OCTOBER I O N 2018 | MESSENGER

27

MMPA CLOTHING CATALOG » ORDER FORM

Ordering Information: Please complete all necessary information. Indicate sizes where required.

Costs can be deducted from producer’s milk check. Money orders and checks are also accepted. Do not mail cash. Orders must be placed through the Novi Office. Allow 3-4 weeks for delivery (all items shipped USPS).

Three ways to order:

Use size chart to determine your correct size. Specify the quantity by size.

1 Email: muszynski@mimilk.com 2 Mail: MMPA Clothing,

Size Chart* S

M

L

XL

2X

3X

4X

34-36

38-40

42-44

46-48

50-52

54

56

P.O. Box 8002

Novi, MI 48376

*Please read size chart carefully. Since garments are decorated, returns or exchanges will only be accepted with prior approval.

3

248-426-3412

Ship To:

Select Payment:

___________________________________________________________________________________ NAME ___________________________________________________________________________________ STREET ADDRESS ___________________________________________________________________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP

Fax:

Please subtract the amount below _ from my milk check:

Local_________________________ Hlr___________________________

State #_______________________

___________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE ___________________________________________________________________________________ EMAIL

STYLE/CODE

TOTAL PRICE DESCRIPTION COLOR SIZE**

**Please add $2 for size 2XL and larger and any tall sizes.

QTY

Check or money order enclosed payable to MMPA.

EACH

TOTAL AMOUNT

Merchandise Subtotal 6% Sales Tax

__________________________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE __________________________________________________________________________ DATE

28

MESSENGER | OCTOBER M I2018 CH

Add S&H Charges Total Order

IGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

$8.00

HOOD FARMS FAMILY DAIRY

SENECA SENECA

Hosts Breakfast on the Farm

DAIRY SYSTEMS, LLC DAIRY SYSTEMS, LLC

THE DAY STARTED WITH POURING RAIN, THUNDER AND LIGHTNING, YET NEARLY 2,300 PEOPLE CAME TO THE FIRST 2018 MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION BREAKFAST ON THE FARM EVENT OF THE SEASON.

FREESTALLS

LOCKUPS

FREESTALLS

LOCKUPS

GATES

MATTRESSES

GATES

MATTRESSES

CALF PENS

CURTAIN SYSTEMS

CALF PENS

CURTAIN SYSTEMS

AUTOMATION

TIP TANKS & MORE

AUTOMATION

TIP TANKS & MORE

T

im and Debbie Hood and their family hosted the 39th Michigan Breakfast on the Farm event, the first of the year, on August 25 on their farm in Paw Paw, Michigan. Hosting their first event in 2015, this fifth-generation farm welcomed visitors for the second time by graciously opening their doors to 2,296 visitors and volunteers.

After arriving at the farm, attendees enjoyed breakfast before setting out on a self-guided tour of the farm. Modern dairy farms provide visitors with a first-hand look at how milk is produced on the farm. After getting protective shoe covers, visitors got to see and ask questions while cows were being milked in the milking parlor. They proceeded to learn about crops, cow housing, cow nutrition and veterinary care all before seeing the maternity barn where many were fortunate to see a calf born and stand for the first time.

MORE THAN A SUPPLIER...

A family owned business since 1978, Seneca Dairy MORE THAN A SUPPLIER...

Systems is more than just a barn equipment supplier; A family owned business since 1978, Seneca Dairy we are a dairy solutions provider, and an invested Systems is more than just a barn equipment supplier; Partner in the success of our customer’s project. we are a dairy solutions provider, and an invested From beginning to the very end, SENECA provides Partner in the success of our customer’s project. customer service of unparalleled quality; before, From beginning to the very end, SENECA provides during and long after the sale. customer service of unparalleled quality; before,

Mid-way in the tour, visitors met the Hood family, before proceeding to learning about the calves and their care.

Next, they saw the equipment that is necessary to provide food for the animals on the farm. The tour concluded with engaging activities for the young visitors, ice cream for all and a wagon ride back to the parking lot.

...A PARTNER ...A PARTNER

during and long after the sale.

VISIT US AT

WORLD DAIRY EXPO VISIT US AT

The second and final Breakfast on the Farm in 2018 was held on September 15 in East Lansing, Michigan.

SOURCE: MSU EXTENSION

Trade Center - 928 & 929

WORLD DAIRY EXPO Trade Center - 928 & 929

Innovation - Experience - Support

POWERED BY SENECA IRON WORKS Innovation - Experience - Support

1-888-3SENECA

POWERED BY SENECA IRON WORKS

1-888-3SENECA senecadairysystems.com

Made in the Made in the

senecadairysystems.com

BREAKFAST ON THE FARM ATTENDEES TOURED THE HOODS’ FREESTALL BARN. SDS_Milk_Mess_OCT_AD_6sep18_FINAL.indd 1

9/6/18 3:09 PM

SDS_Milk_Mess_OCT_AD_6sep18_FINAL.indd 1

9/6/18 3:09 PM

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

29

POLICIES

Drug Residue Policy

MMPA Milk Quality Policy

MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

MILK ON FARM – QUALITY QUESTIONABLE

MILK SHIPPED – REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

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

When a member suspects that the milk in

IF a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant

1 Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested.

should call a MMPA member representative

A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

dumped. If the member dumps the milk on

OR 2 The MMPA 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.

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED 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.

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

ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. 30

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they who will authorize milk in the tank to be 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 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 a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant AND IF a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more AND IF 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.

AND IF 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 IF 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.

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.

MILK HAULERS A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cfu 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 cfu per mL.

TEMPERATURE BULK TANK FARMS A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature.

DIRECT LOAD FARMS A hauler will be responsible for the freight and disposal charges for all loads of milk rejected for temperature. If farm conditions indicate an on-farm cause for the load to be warm, the member will be responsible for the loss of milk value. In the case where a member cannot be shown as the cause of the rejected load for temperature, the hauler will be responsible for the freight, disposal charges, and loss in milk value.

QUALITY PREMIUMS

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

SOMATIC CELL COUNT (SCC) PREMIUMS AND DEDUCTIONS

Payment for testing will be made through

Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions

All costs are listed per individual sample.

(in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels:

an automatic milk check deduction.

COW TESTS: $1 Cow samples may be tested for:

50,000 or below...................................... +55¢/cwt.

• Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae

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

• Strep non ag

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

• Staphylococcus aureus

101,000-125,000..................................... +40¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000..................................... +35¢/cwt.

151,000-175,000.......................................+30¢/cwt.

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

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

226,000-250,000.................................... +15¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000................................... +00¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000.................................. - 30¢/cwt.

• coagulase negative staph • gram negative and/or SCC

Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA member representative to include: • Raw bacteria count and components All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory

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

All costs are listed per individual sample.

• 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count

__________________________

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for:

- ELISA..................................................................... $6

• Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count

• Johne’s Milk Test

A high raw count deduction will be waived if the

- PCR......................................................................$40

- ELISA – cows...................................................... $6

- ELISA – tank..................................................... $10

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month:

• Bovine Leukosis Test

• Positive drug residue

- ELISA – tank..................................................... $10

• High load count shipment or rejected load shipment

__________________________

• Bacteriology Cultures – includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility....................................$16

- PCR......................................................................$40

• Abnormal freeze points

__________________________

Member name:

previous three months for raw bacteria count.

Loc/Hlr/Producer #

• Mycoplasma Cultures...................................... $14

producer has received the quality premium the

Refer to fee schedule to the left for current pricing.

The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

Sample Date: ADDITIONAL TESTS AVAILABLE:

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below:

To avoid potential service charges, this card MUST be filled out completely when sending samples to be tested by NorthStar Labs.

through your MMPA member representative.

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

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

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES

- ELISA – cows...................................................... $6

• Milk Pregnancy ELISA................................ $4.50

__________________________ Sample ID: __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________

n BLV ELISA n Johne’s ELISA

• Raw Bacteria count over 100,000

LAB TEST RESULTS BY MAIL – $2/MONTH

The count levels for raw and PI will be determined

All tests must be scheduled through your

n Johne’s PCR

on one test run per month.

MMPA member representative or the

• #3 or #4 sediment

laboratory for proper sample submission

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

n Pregnancy

protocol. Lab form provided below for your convenience.

If you would like lab test cards EU SCC REQUIREMENT All MMPA member milk must meet the

provided to you, please contact

requirements of European Union certification

the MMPA laboratory in Novi

for SCC which is an average of 400,000 or

at 800-572-5824.

less calculated by a rolling geometric mean.

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

31

FREELINERS & CLASSIFIEDS

TO SUBMIT ADS VISIT WWW.MIMILK.COM/MICHIGAN-MILK-MESSENGER/ADVERTISE/FREELINER-AND-CLASSIFIED-ADS

CLASSIFIEDS

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

FREELINERS Bulls

PTO and Automatic Start Generators 1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419

Service age Holstein bulls.

Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548.

MISC. Dry Cow Hay 4x5 Round Bales.

Net wrapped. $30, $35 & $40.

989-464-7364.

www.hamiltondist.com

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.

Call 517-647-7381.

CONCRETE GROOVING BY TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices. Call (800) 554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com.

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. 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361.

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. Call 800-558-0112.

STRAW & DRY HAY (large & small bales) & BARLEY FOR FEED. Call 989723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

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

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

32

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

ALFALFA 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. Call Gibson Hoof Care (Tom) at 989-239-6843.

FOR SALE: CORN SILAGE AND BEET PULP. Stored under two layers of plastic with tire sidewalls touching each other. Aron Whitaker, Elsie, MI. Call 989-666-6565.

MERCHANDISE PROFESSIONAL AGENTS, PROVIDING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES. Insuring all types of farms and orchards. Health/Life/ Home/Auto and Small Business coverage. Legacy planning and Wealth Management Services also available. Call today, 269-506-2057.

Licensed in MI and IN. BARN WHITE WASHING AND CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE AIR. Serving all Michigan and Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc. Call 574-825-9776.

JOANNA KANE DVM. Providing quality veterinary care and products for cattle, swine, sheep, and goats throughout Southwest Michigan. Office: 616-355-7447; Cell: 269-680-3627; jkane@4starvets. com. *A part of Swine Veterinary Services or Michigan and 4 Star Veterinary Services*

USPS STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION

MICHIGAN CERTIFIED WHEAT SEED (Red & White). Early Pay and Volume Discounts. Rye, Oat and June Clover Seed also available. Call 989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

Calf Blankets October brings fall colors, warm days and cool nights—the precursor to snowy mornings and cold temperatures! To help calves stay warm, the merchandise program carries calf blankets by Udder Tech. These high quality blankets are designed to stay on the calf and are easy to put on and take off. No other insulation is warmer than Thinsulate and its performance remains virtually unchanged after repeated cleanings. Some of the unique features of these blankets are as follows: • 3M Thinsulate • Single (150 grams) or Double (300 grams) insulation • Belly strap to keep blanket secured in place • Durable water-resistant nylon • Extra strap length to accommodate growth • Machine wash and dry (very important!)

• Quick release buckles—no Velcro to get matted The warehouse carries four versions of Udder Tech blankets. We have a single insulated blanket, blue with black trim, in regular/medium size. We also stock double insulated blankets in small (pink), medium and (NEW!) large.

STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

MEMBER PRICE

5636

SINGLE INSULATION REGULAR/MEDIUM

$34.03

5635

DOUBLE INSULATION SMALL (PINK)

$35.71

5680

DOUBLE INSULATION MEDIUM

$37.40

5728

DOUBLE INSULATION LARGE (NEW)

$54.34

If you wish to order these products or any of the other items we stock, please call the warehouse at 1-877-367-6455.

Chemical, Sanitizer and Teat Dip Contact Information These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

THREE WAYS TO ORDER YOUR MMPA MERCHANDISE

ECOLAB 24-Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 Service Message Center: 1-800-392-3392 Service Representatives: » Ben Johnson 810-824-0636 26959 Rosanna Court South Bend, IN 46619 » Pat Mitchell 517-403-0928 7273 N. Rollin Highway Addison, MI 49220 » Jason Wolfe 540-553-5755 1890 Canter Drive Riner, VA 24149

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

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

33

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary | FOR MILK MARKETED IN AUGUST 2018 AMS Survey Prices (monthly average, per pound)

Cheese 1.5544 / LB

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33

# This Month # Year Ago % Change Total Class 1 Sales

549,736,196

552,200,363

-0.45

Total Class 2 Sales

369,701,024

299,174,110

+23.57

Total Class 3 Sales

543,964,069

573,862,057

-5.21

Total Class 4 Sales

235,869,253

243,946,685

-3.31

1,699,270,542

1,669,183,215

+1.80

32.4%

33.1%

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers...............................................................................4,459 Avg. Daily Production per farm....................................................12,293 Avg. Protein Test...........................................................................3.04%

Butter 2.3192 / LB

Avg. Butterfat Test.........................................................................3.71% Avg. Oth Solids Test......................................................................5.77% Avg. SCC - MMPA......................................................................185,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb.......................................................................... $1.6245 Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................... $2.6009

Milk Powders

Other Solids Price /lb................................................................. $0.1741

Nonfat Dry Milk

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................... $14.95

0.8111 / LB

Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt..................................................... $0.20

Dry Whey 0.3681 / LB

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 34

MESSENGER | OCTOBER 2018

Uniform Price @ 3.5%................................................................... $15.15 SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000..................................................... $0.00078

California Wisconsin New York Idaho Texas Michigan Pennsylvania Minnesota New Mexico Washington Ohio Indiana Total U.S. U.S Y-T-D

2018

3,303 2,624 1,278 1,311 1,099 948 882 850 687 575 464 348 17,245 138,080

2017

3,265 2,588 1,257 1,299 1,004 954 906 838 684 564 473 348 17,014 136,370

% Change

+1.2 +1.4 +1.7 +0.9 +9.5 -0.6 -2.6 +1.4 +0.4 +2.0 -1.9 +0.0 +1.4 +1.3

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 Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI................................906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.....................................231-519-2455 Elyse Martin, Charlotte......................................810-701-6460 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062 Brittni Tucker, Eagle...........................................248-880-3785

East Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Vassar.................................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159 Ashley Herriman, Herron...................................269-245-6632 Laura Gucwa, Bad Axe......................................248-826-6294 Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481 Emily Peacock, Otisville......................................248-826-7243

South Area Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake......................................517-937-9061 Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Anna Tucker, Mt. Gilead, OH.............................248-533-2288 Steve Post, White Pigeon...................................248-938-1555

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240 Hedging and Business Development Aaron Beak............................................................. ext. 256

Officers

Controller Shelly Bonnici.......................................................... ext. 249

Kris Wardin, Vice President

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

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304 Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258

Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515

Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453

Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210

Carlton Evans, Litchfield 517-398-0629

Communications Allison Stuby Miller................................................. ext. 296 Krista Schrock............................................... 269-986-6792

Manufacturing Plants Constantine, Michigan Dave Davis, Plant Manager............................ 269-435-2835 Ovid, Michigan Ron Steinhorst, Plant Manager...................... 989-834-2221 Middlebury Cheese Company Middlebury, Indiana ................................ 574-825-9511

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant

Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson.....................................................989-289-9686

Directors-At-Large

Member Services Dean Letter................................................... 989-289-9251

Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

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

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420

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

Novi (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)

In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free 800-233-2405

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

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

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

MMPA Labs

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

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

Other Member Services

Raw Milk Compliance Manager Steve Lehman, Ithaca........................................989-330-1638

Ken Nobis, President

Manufacturing Kaylan Kennel............................................... 248-880-5413

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

Sustainability Coordinator Kendra Kissane, Byron Center...........................248-880-4234

Board of Directors

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.

Mark Iciek, Gladwin 989-387-4767 District Directors 1 Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032 2 Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771 3 David Pyle Zeeland 616-772-1512 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

OCTOBER 2018 | MESSENGER

35

P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376

Give the gift of your dairy delights this holiday season

On sale soon!

Heritage Ridge Creamery holiday gift boxes TO ORDER: Call: 574-825-9511, ext. 104 Click: www.heritageridgecreamery.com Visit: Heritage Ridge Creamery 11275 W 250 N Middlebury, IN 46540

Heritage Ridge Creamery is a brand of Middlebury Cheese Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Michigan Milk Producers Association.