Michigan Milk Messenger: March 2016

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

MESSENGER

VOL. 98 | ISSUE 9 | MARCH 2016

2016 MSU DAIRY FARMER OF THE YEAR

Hank Choate

mimilk.com

Michigan Milk

MESSENGER Columns 4 MMPA Matters From Farm to Flint in 96 Hours

6 Quality Watch What You Need to Know About NPE

14

8 News & Views 10 Legislative Watch

March Features 12 Two Director-at-Large Positions to be Filled at the Annual Meeting 14 And They Continued to Show Up, For 100 Years 18 From the Cows to the

Consumers: 2016 MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year Hank Choate

Managing Editor.............................................Sheila Burkhardt Editor..........................................................................Allison Stuby Advertising Manager.................................. Nancy Muszynski Circulation............................................................................... 2,843 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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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

18 41310 Bridge Street

p: 248-474-6672

P.O. Box 8002

f: 248-474-0924

Novi, MI 48376-8002

w: www.mimilk.com

Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices.

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

(ISSN 0026-2315)

22 22 Dairy Ambassador Program Names Two Representatives 24 Lead versus Dairy MMPA, Kroger Donate 12,000 Gallons of Milk to Flint 26 Your Dairy Promotion

at Work

Champion Track Star Leah O’Connor Signs on to Promote Milk

Departments

Cover Story

28

Merchandise

Meet the 2016 MSU

29

Quality Premiums

30

Freeliners

32

Classifieds

dairy farm. Find the full

33

Policies

story on page 18.

34

Market Report

35

Staff

Dairy Farmer of the Year Hank Chaote and learn about his Cement City

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

Board of Directors Officers

Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns............................989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 201 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore......................................................... 989-756-4935

Ken Nobis, President

Dan Javor, Hastings...................................................................... 269-948-8345

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Mark Halbert, Battle Creek.......................................................... 269-964-0511

Eric Frahm, Treasurer Joe Diglio, General Manager/ Secretary Josep Barenys, Assistant Treasurer Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

James Reid, Jeddo........................................................................ 810-327-6830

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. Brent Wilson, Carson City......................................................... 989-584-3481 6. Tony Jandernoa, Fowler............................................................ 989-593-2224 7. Eric Frahm, Frankenmuth.......................................................... 989-652-3552 8. Leonard Brown, Sandusky......................................................... 810-648-4505

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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MMPA MATTERS

From Farm to Flint in 96 Hours

BY KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT

On Jan. 18, I attended a meeting at Michigan State University with the new Interim Director of MSU Extension, Dr. Jeff Dwyer. Sheila Burkhardt, MMPA Sr. Director of Member and Government Relations, and other representatives of the Michigan dairy industry also attended the meeting arranged by Faith Cullens, MSU Dairy Extension educator. Faith thought it would be a good idea for us to share our vision and concerns about the Michigan dairy industry with Dr. Dwyer.

The meeting began with some “get acquainted” small talk. But before we even started talking about dairy-specific issues, Dr. Dwyer initiated a discussion of MSU Extension’s work in Flint—where the water system has recently been compromised—to help remediate the potential damage lead poisoning does to people, especially kids. Dr. Dwyer’s focus is on the need for good nutrition. He emphasized that diets high in calcium, vitamin C and iron reduce the amount of lead absorbed and stored in the bone.

He then asked us if there was any way we could get milk into the city quickly to “jump start” recovery for Flint’s youth. Milk is high in calcium, and with vitamin D fortification is readily absorbed by bones, making it a natural choice to illustrate the nutrition concept and at the same time help to lessen the impact of the lead poisoning.

“The reaction from MMPA members when they heard about what had been done can be best summed up in the one word we heard most often: AWESOME! The next question was, ‘Can we do more?’ We will explore possibilities.”

Sheila and I left that meeting with the same thought in mind: MMPA could make this happen quickly. The next step was to find a partner who would process the milk. A quick call to the Kroger Company of Michigan by MMPA’s Director of Milk Sales Carl Rasch found an eager partner, ready and willing to join with MMPA to move forward.

In quick order we had approximately 12,000 gallons of milk, Kroger as the processor, and Quickway Carriers willing to move the milk from the Kroger plant to Flint, but where to in Flint? That’s where the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan stepped in. They have a large warehouse facility with ample refrigerated storage to receive the milk. The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan also has the expertise and the distribution system set up in the city of Flint to ensure that the people most in need would receive the milk that MMPA members were so willing to donate.

But we wanted to do more than just donate milk to a very worthy cause; we also wanted to share the message that milk supplies an excellent nutritional package. Amplifying the nutrition message was MSU Extension, who supplied written explanations with each donated gallon of milk.

In addition, Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, head of Hurley Medical Center’s pediatrics residents program and professor of pediatrics and human development at Michigan State University’s Flint based College of Human Medicine, who has been pivotal in resolving the damage caused by the Flint water crisis, rearranged her schedule so that she could be present on Jan. 22 when Kroger and MMPA made public our donation of the milk to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan for distribution. She wanted to help change the focus from supplying water to the value of good nutrition in lessening the impact of this unfortunate situation.

To recap the chain of events: 25 hours after Sheila and I walked out of the meeting with the MSU Extension group, the plan had been finalized. Ninety-six hours after we walked out of that meeting the milk was in Flint. We couldn’t have made it happen that fast without already having great working relationships with all those involved. The reaction from MMPA members when they heard about what had been done can be best summed up in the one word we heard most often: AWESOME! The next question was, “Can we do more?”

We will explore possibilities.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MMPA’S DONATION OF MILK TO FLINT FAMILIES ON PAGE 24.

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

QUALITY WATCH

What You Need to Know About NPE

BY DUANE FARMER, MERCHANDISE SUPERVISOR

For the past year or so we have been talking about NPEs. But what are NPEs? And why do they matter to members?

Let’s take the easy question first. NPE is an acronym for nonylphenol ethoxylate. NPEs are an important component of many products we use every day. Products such as paint, pesticides, dish and laundry soaps.

The reason they are prevalent in so many of these products is that they are an excellent and affordable surfactant. Surfactants are compounds that lower the surface tension between two liquids or a liquid and a solid. Surfactants may act as detergents, wetting agents, and emulsifiers; as well as foaming agents and dispersants. They are the ingredients that enable cleaners to effectively remove soils from a wide range of surfaces. This is why they are so often used in dish soaps, laundry detergents and products used on dairy farms including teat dips.

All of these products are what are considered “wet end” or “down the drain” products. Meaning of course that after they have been used, they are typically rinsed down the drain along with any harmful residues. This allows them to possibly be introduced to the water supply.

“Members need to know how NPEs relate to their operations.

Nonelphynol ethoxylates have been found to have adverse effects on the environment, most notably on the aquatic environment.”

Members need to know how NPEs relate to their operations. Nonelphynol ethoxylates have been found to have adverse effects on the environment, most notably on the aquatic environment. NPE is not readily biodegradable and therefore persists in aquatic environments. It can take months or longer to degrade in surface waters, soils and sediments. NPEs have been linked to reproductive deficiencies in some species of fish and can have harmful effects on other aquatic organisms.

In 2003, this discovery caused the European Union to pass a directive restricting the use of products containing more than 0.1 percent of NPEs. This directive went into full effect in January 2005, effectively banning the use of NPE in the E.U. Japan has taken steps to ban its use in their country as well. As we all know, the dairy industry is an increasingly global market. The concern over NPEs entering the food chain through dairy products has prompted action in the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency has initiated an action plan to restrict its use in the United States. This action plan has caused many companies to begin phasing out the widespread use of NPEs. The merchandise program sells a wide range of chemicals used on dairy farms. These include, CIP (clean in place) and manual cleaners as well as sanitizers and teat dips.

Ecolab has been MMPA’s main supplier of these products for many years. All of Ecolab’s CIP cleaners, sanitizers and non-iodine teat dips are NPE-free and have been for some time. The iodine dips are the ones that have provided a challenge to eliminating NPEs completely from our lineup.

Last year, following the move of our merchandise warehouse, we installed Ecolab’s M1 teat dip mixing system. This allowed us to provide a sustainable alternative to iodine products made with NPE. Ecolab introduced Ecoplus SA concentrate which is the base for all of our NPE free iodine teat dips blended through the M1. This allows us to offer a virtually NPE-free lineup of dips and cleaners. The only exception at this time are our Optima concentrates. Ecolab is working on a NPE-free alternative and hopes to have a solution soon.

Do not expect the EPA to be knocking on the milk house door demanding to inspect your farm for NPE-free products. It is important, however, to keep abreast of issues pertaining to you as a member and dairy farmer and this is why we have decided to make changes now rather than later. If you have any questions regarding this subject please feel free to contact the merchandise warehouse.

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

100th Annual State Delegate Meeting POWER of the Past.

WHEN:

VISION for the Future.

Thursday, March 24, 2016 Registration begins at 9 a.m. | Meeting called to order promptly at 10 a.m.

WHERE:

Lansing Center 333 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933

ON THE AGENDA: • • • • • •

Consideration of policy statements and resolutions Election of two director-at-large positions on the MMPA board of directors Recognition of MMPA’s 35 and 50+ year members Announcement of MMPA Quality Award recipient Introduction of the MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators Recognition of MMPA’s 100th Anniversary

Business will be conducted only by accredited delegates, but all members are welcome to attend.

Members who are not serving as delegates are asked to RSVP to Nancy Muszynski at 248-474-6672, ext. 202 or muszynski@mimilk.com by March 9.

A CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION WILL FOLLOW THE REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING

#MMPA100AM

& VIEWS NEWS &NEWS VIEWS

Powering Michigan Agriculture Conference March 10, 2016 » Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, East Lansing, MI

Farm Women’s Symposium Celebrates 25 years in 2016 Farm Women’s Symposium will return to its roots in Traverse City, Michigan for the 25th anniversary program on March 9-11, 2016. This event is an excellent opportunity to learn, develop valuable networks, renew friendships, and get motivated for another year in farming.

Whether you are active in farming or agri-business, or just want to know more about women in agriculture, don’t miss this wonderful opportunity.

While registration is open to everyone, a limited number of scholarships are available for Michigan Corn Grower members and for GreenStone Farm Credit Services members. For questions about scholarships or the Farm Women’s Symposium, please contact Agnes Talaski at 989-670-7811 or Sheryl Oswalt at 269-330-2529.

Class III and IV Prices Decline The USDA reported January’s Class III price was $13.72 per hundredweight, down 72 cents from December. The Class IV price was $13.31 cwt., down $2.21 from the prior month.

Upcoming Events March 23

MMPA State Resolutions Committee Meeting, Lansing

March 24

“Energy expenses account for approximately 34 percent of a farm’s total expenses,” said Charles Gould, Michigan State University Extension educator on agricultural bioenergy and energy conservation. “Implementing energy conservation practices and renewable energy technologies can significantly reduce energy consumption and expense.”

Speakers include:

• Jim Byrum, president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association

• Ken Zebarah, Harvest Energy Solutions

• Steve Harsh, MSU Extension

• Dan Schrauben, Schrauben Associates, LLC

• Dana Kirk, MSU

• Laura Campbell, Michigan Farm Bureau

• Charles Gould, MSU Extension

• Timothy Schultz, Terra Caloric, LLC.

This daylong program will begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at 4 p.m. The $35 registration fee for the conference includes lunch. Preregistration is preferred.

Online registration closes March 6.

VISIT HTTP://EVENTS.ANR.MSU.EDU/POWERINGMIAG/ FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER ONLINE.

Cattle Producer Opinion Sought on Program Reinstatement Michigan cattle producers are being asked to express their opinion on an industry proposal that would reinstate and assessment on cattle raised or fed in Michigan under the Beef Industry Commission Act (1972 PA 291, as amended).

Cattle industry organizations have recommended the Michigan Beef Industry Commission reinstate and assessment of not more than one tenth of 1 percent (10 cents for every $100) of gross receipts from the sale of all cattle for the purpose of promoting the sale and use of beef and beef products; supporting beef promotion, research, education and consumer marketing activities; conducting scientific research on any and all phases of beef production, marketing or promotion; and disseminating reliable information about beef and beef products.

MMPA 100th Annual State Delegate Meeting, Lansing

Proposed reinstatement will be considered at two public input sessions:

April 14

• March 11 at 3:00 p.m., Doherty Hotel, Clare, MI

MMPA Dairy Communicators Meeting, Lansing

• March 15 at 10:00 a.m., Hampton Inn, Marshall, MI

April 15

Interested individuals can attend one of the input meetings or download and complete a producer survey by April 5. Surveys will be distributed at the meetings and can be found on MIBeef.org.

MMPA Young Cooperators Conference, Mt. Pleasant 8

The Powering Michigan Agriculture with Renewable Energy Conference will help farmers learn about renewable energy technologies—how to identify the most suitable technology to meet their energy management goals, and how to obtain the resources and tools necessary to implement these technologies on their farms.

U.S. Dairy Exports End Five-Year Growth Streak Trading into the weakest global dairy market in more than a decade, U.S. dairy exports declined in 2015, ending a streak of five straight years of expansion. Dairy export sales totaled $5.24 billion last year, down 26 percent from 2014’s record level. Overall export volume was off 8 percent, at 3.645 billion lbs. of milk solids (total-solids basis).

Export volume represented 14 percent of U.S. milk production in 2015, down from 15.3 percent in 2013-14.

“Over the last decade, the world marketplace for dairy has been primarily a buyers’ market, favorable for U.S. exporters. 2015 was more of a sellers’ market, and 2016 is shaping up to be more of the same,” says Tom Suber, president of the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC). “U.S. suppliers have to understand that this may be the ‘new normal’ for a while, and they’ll need to be particularly aggressive to compete with exporters from Europe and Oceania.”

This assessment is based on a new USDEC report, “2020 Global Demand Forecast for U.S. Dairy Exports,” which analyzed the fundamental supply and demand drivers for dairy to the end of the decade. The report concluded that the United States is still positioned to take advantage of the growth in global demand, but competitors, notably Europe, were also well positioned.

Therefore, U.S. suppliers need to continue to improve on product specifications, customer service, marketing and supplychain efficiencies.

Producers scoring 95 percent or Higher on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Ratings Edward / Jane Mamarow Jr Williams Family Farm LLC* Horning Farms LLC* Dottie-O-Dairy LLC Richard Wardin* Charles Storms Mervin Dailey David Kraft Marten Family Dairy LLC* *100 percent MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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LEGISLATIVE WATCH

Legislation to Ensure Timely PA 116 Payments Legislation was introduced in late December to improve Michigan's Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program (PA 116) by implementing measures to ensure timelier processing of farmers' PA 116 tax credit payments.

“Many farmers still have not received their 2014 PA 116 tax credit payments from the Michigan Department of Treasury,” said MFB State Legislative Counsel Rebecca Park. “Not only is that a problem for current program participants, but it could deter potential enrollees from preserving their land through the program.”

Specifically, the legislation would amend state law to: • Hold treasury accountable for timely payments by requiring them to apply a 3-percent annual interest rate on late refunds-if certain provisions outlined in the legislation are met.

• Require enrollees to complete the PA 116 form (MI CR-5) annually to track unclaimed credits and ensure treasury remits those funds to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) for program administration.

• Allow e-filing regardless of the number of land agreements in the program.

District 1 Art Riske, Hanover............................................... 517-524-6015 Clark Emmons, Fayette, OH................................ 419-452-6764 Jeff Alexander, Hanover....................................... 517-740-9981 Perry Cisco, Hudson............................................ 517-404-7997 Carlton Evans, Litchfield....................................... 517-398-0629

District 2 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......................... 574-825-5198 Donald Bever, Delton........................................... 269-671-5050 Heather Wing, Bellevue........................................ 269-660-0498 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN............................. 574-825-2454 Danny Ransler, Gobles........................................ 269-628-4218

District 3 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................................ 231-757-2090 Bill Stakenas, Freesoil.......................................... 231-757-9340 Gary Nelsen, Grant.............................................. 231-834-7610 Tim Butler, Sand Lake.......................................... 616-636-8567 Nico Eadie, Conklin.............................................. 616-550-4041

District 4 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard.................................... 906-478-3023 Russ Tolan, Ossineke........................................... 989-471-2993 Ron Lucas, Posen................................................ 989-379-4694 Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................................... 231-588-6084 Jeremy Werth, Herron.......................................... 989-464-4022

MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

These two issues led to the development of PA 116, under which farmers contract with the State of Michigan to keep their land in farming and agree not to develop the land. In exchange for that restriction, the landowner may receive state income tax credits.

• Double the current fee for property transfers and splits from $25 to $50.

MMPA Advisory Committee

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In 1974, Michigan became one of the first states in the nation to address farmland preservation. At the time, farmland was being taken out of production at an average rate of approximately 117,000 acres a year and farmers were paying more than 27 percent of their farm income for property taxes.

District 5 Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................................ 989-762-5399 Bruce Benthem, McBain....................................... 231-825-8182 Amy Martin, Leroy................................................ 231-388-0496 Mike Rasmussen, Edmore................................... 989-762-5380 Bill Jernstadt, Big Rapids..................................... 231-796-4650

District 6 Kris Wardin, St. Johns.......................................... 989-640-9420 Aaron Gasper, Lowell........................................... 616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler............................................ 989-640-1075 David Reed, Owosso............................................ 989-723-2023 Jamie Meyer, Ionia .............................................. 989-640-3372

District 7 Eric Bergdolt, Vassar............................................ 989-652-6500 Steve Foley, Millington.......................................... 989-871-4028 Rod Fowler, Chesaning........................................ 989-845-6131 John Bennett, Prescott......................................... 989-345-4264 Scott Kleinhardt, Clare......................................... 989-386-8037

District 8 Mike Bender, Croswell.......................................... 810-679-4782 Scott Lamb, Jeddo............................................... 810-404-8003 Mike Noll, Croswell............................................... 810-404-4071 Jeremy Sharrard, Peck......................................... 810-404-5076 Dale Phillips, Marlette........................................... 989-635-7917

At-Large Mark Crandall, Battle Creek................................. 269-660-2229 Tom Wing, Bellevue.............................................. 269-660-0498 Bill Blumerich, Berlin............................................ 810-395-2926 Chuck White, Fowlerville...................................... 517-521-3564

MMPA Spring Training and Classes ➤ MMPA MILKER TRAINING SCHOOL MMPA Milker Training School (MTS) has provided in-depth training to members and their employees for almost 20 years. The program establishes best milking practices on the farm to improve milk quality and reduce mastitis infections. MTS fulfills the National Dairy FARM Program guidelines of providing yearly training to animal caretakers on your farm.

Registration: 9:30 a.m. Program: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

March 2

Otsego County Building, 800 Livingston Blvd., Gaylord, MI

March 15 (Spanish)

Agro Culture Liquid Fertilizers Headquarters 1130 S. DeWitt Rd., St. Johns, MI

March 16 (English)

Agro Culture Liquid Fertilizers Headquarters 1130 S. DeWitt Rd., St. Johns, MI

March 29

Logan Township Hall, 4507 E. M-55, Prescott, MI

March 30

Clare Church of Nazarene, 10160 S Grant Ave., Clare, MI

April 19

Polkton Township Hall, 6900 Arthur St., Coopersville, MI

➤ MMPA / LAND O’ LAKES CALF CARE SCHOOL MMPA/Land O’Lakes Calf Care Schools demonstrate to members and their employees the proper means to care for calves to help them grow into healthy heifers/cows. In addition to general calf care guidelines, the program will include: colostrum management and quality information, mixing/weighing demonstrations, live calf demonstrations, educational necropsy and calf care SOP writing.

Registration: 9:00 a.m. Program: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

March 15

Freedom Township Hall 11508 E. Pleasant Lake Rd., Manchester, MI

March 16

LaGrange County Fair Community Building 1030 E 075 N, LaGrange, IN

March 17

MSU Dairy Farm, 4075 N. College Rd., East Lansing, MI

To register for MMPA Milker Training School or MMPA / Land O Lakes Calf Care School, contact: Marianne Gasiewski, MMPA Member Services P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376 PHONE: 248-474-6672, ext. 215 EMAIL: gasiewski@mimilk.com A $10 registration fee will be deducted from your milk check cover lunch and material costs.

to

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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Two Director-at-Large Positions to be Filled at the MMPA 100th Annual State Delegate Meeting Delegates at the 100th Annual State Delegate Meeting will elect two at-large members to the MMPA board of directors.

There are five candidates vying for the two open positions: Ken Nobis and Craig Green for one position and Dale Phillips, Gertie van den Goor and Heather Wing for the second position. All candidates completed applications for the positions and were submitted for consideration after an interview with the MMPA Nominating Committee.

Election One Candidates KEN NOBIS has served on the MMPA board of directors since 1992 and is currently seeking another term. Nobis currently holds the position of board president, a position he has held since 2007 after being vice president from 2000 to 2007. Nobis has also held positions on the MMPA Advisory Committee, MidMichigan Local, Michigan State University Dairy Market Committee and was named District 6 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator along with his wife, Liz. Nobis is also on the board of the National Milk Producers Federation, Dairy Management, Inc., United Dairy Industry of Michigan and the Michigan Dairy Market Committee. He is a member of the MidMichigan Local in District 6. Nobis farms in partnership with his brother, Larry, on Nobis Dairy Farms, a 1,060-cow, 3,100 acre dairy farm in St. Johns, Michigan. He and Liz have two sons: Kerry and Mitch.

“I have a strong background in the dairy industry, both on the producer side and the co-op component. I understand the diverse nature of our membership, and I work to improve the opportunities for all members.”

CRAIG GREEN, from Elsie,

Michigan, is vying for a spot as a director-at-large on the MMPA board of directors. Green has served MMPA as a state delegate and is a board member of the Elsie Fire Department since 2014. He is a member of the Mid-Michigan Local in District 6. He operates Green Meadow Farms, Inc. with 3,200 cows on 7,200 acres. Green and his wife, Darcy, have one daughter: Corbie.

“I would be a benefit to MMPA because I have been around the dairy industry and MMPA my entire life. I understand what MMPA means to members and their families.”

Election Two Candidates GERTIE VAN DEN GOOR

is seeking election to one of the open director-atlarge positions on the MMPA board of directors. van den Goor has served as an MMPA state delegate, MMPA Dairy Communicator and is a member of the Sanilac County Community Foundation.

She, along with her husband Geert, won MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year in 2014. van den Goor’s farm, Goma Dairy Farm, has hosted Breakfast on the Farm and blogger tours. She is a member of the Mid-Sanilac Local in District 8. They milk 3,000 cows and operate 800 acres in Marlette, Michigan. She and Geert have three children: Anne, Giel and Lotte.

“The more diverse a board is, the better they are. I think it is important to bring a woman onto the board. With my life and farming experience, I think I can help bridge differences. In today's world, it is more important than ever we dairy farmers unite and not divide.”

DALE PHILLIPS is up for

election for the second director-at-large position.

Phillips is an MMPA state delegate, and is on the MMPA Advisory Committee, MMPA Resolutions Committee and District Nominating Committee. He was involved in the MMPA Marlette/Brown City Local as president, secretary and treasurer. Phillips also was on the Marlette Oil and Gas Board of Directors. He is a member of the MidSanilac Local in District 8. He farms in partnership with Glen and Eric Phillips on Phillips Farm in Marlette, Michigan.

The farm milks 90 cows and operates 1,600 acres. Phillips and his wife, Rita, have one child: Sharon.

“The direction of MMPA is very important to me. I look forward to seeing the company grow and meet the demand of the farmer and the industry.”

HEATHER WING is also

pursuing an open position on the MMPA board of directors. Wing is on the MMPA Advisory and Resolutions Committees.

She was the District 4 secretary and is a Dairy Communicator. Wing and her husband, Tom, were the MMPA Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperators Runners-Up in 2009. She is the president of the Barry County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and a member of the Michigan Dairy Marketing Program Committee. In the past, Wing served on the Michigan Farm Bureau Policy Development Committee and was chair of the Barry County Animal Control Advisory Committee. She is a member of the BarryEaton Local in District 2. Wing farms with Tom on Wing Acres Dairy, a 100 cow, 525 acre farm in Bellevue, Michigan. They have two children: Olivia and Arinn.

“With my involvement on the board, MMPA will continue to be recognized as a distinguished member co-op with respected, professional presence in the dairy industry.”

POWER of the Past. » VISION for the Future.

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

MMPA MEMBER FARM SIGN This 24” x 36” reinforced fiberglass sign comes personalized with your name or farm name on both sides. Resists moisture and other forms of weathering. The cost is $40 per sign.

You can receive a $25 rebate toward the member merchandise program by taking a picture of your sign installed on your farm. Please allow 4-5 weeks for delivery once ordered.

ORDER TODAY! Download order form on www.mimilk.com.

Form can be found under the MMPA Members and Member Information menues.

Return form to: PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376 musynski@mimilk.com

Your Name

MMPA Young Cooperators Conference NET WORK | LEARN | CONNEC T | GROW

Connecting Younger Members for over Two Decades Attend the 22nd Annual YC Conference for: ❱ Town hall meeting dialogue with dairy leaders ❱ Informative presentations geared toward young dairy leaders ❱ Tour of a Michigan dairy farm ❱ Dinner and entertainment with other young dairy farmers

April 15, 2016 Comfort Inn Mt. Pleasant, MI

REGISTRATION: Conference registration is free to MMPA members and MMPA employees.

RSVP was enclosed in the February 26 milk check, or RSVP to jwelch@mimilk.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Jessica Welch at 248-474-6672, ext. 303, or jwelch@mimilk.com.

HOTEL RESERVATIONS: Make hotel reservations by March 21, 2016 and mention MMPA to receive the discounted $109 rate.

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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POWER of the Past. Âť VISION for the Future.

AND THEY CONTINUED TO SHOW UP FOR

100 Years

BY MELISSA HART

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

It was 1919. The third largest industry in the United States was dairy and the newly formed Michigan Milk Producers Association was getting ready for their third annual meeting to be held in East Lansing at the Michigan Agricultural College.

The announcement of the meeting began with this: Our vision of the battle front must change. It is not only with the local market, but it is in the halls of the Legislature and Congress. We must forget that we are members of any political party; we must remember we are to protect the interests of our business and our homes with our voice and our vote.

T

his meeting was on the heels of the arrest of several Ohio dairymen who refused to sell their milk for under the cost of production. They were arrested late at night, taken to a Cleveland jail and not allowed bond or a phone call. The crime for which they were indicted was simply that they refused collectively to sell the product of their labor for less than the cost of production. And this was not an isolated case, according to the 1919 Michigan Milk Messenger, this was happening coast to coast.

The program for the 1919 annual meeting included discussion of how the government should interact with an organized dairy industry, the problems that had cropped up in Ohio and the President of the National Holstein Friesian Association, D.D. Aitken, was slated to speak on collective bargaining and legislation needed in Michigan.

Clearly the early growing pains of a newly formed milk cooperative were being felt while dairymen from around the state were gaining a voice in marketing their milk. And when the annual meeting commenced there was a showing of over 650 people in attendance with every county in central and southern Michigan being represented. Members wanted an active role in the association and visibly showed their desire to be heard.

The keynote of every address according to the Michigan Milk Messenger was a patriotic devotion to the well-being of the nation and a desire to stabilize food production so that in the years to come farmers ‘shall be able to supply the necessary food that will give physical and mental strength to this and coming generations.’

The 1930s arrived and milk consumption dropped like a rock. Not only were they not drinking milk but consumers began using the new butter substitute: Oleo. With depressed commodity prices, farmers were struggling. Non-MMPA members were selling their milk to markets below the cost of production and this was forcing the MMPA sales committee to sell milk at this cut-rate price as well. Being on the sales committee was a tough job through these years but the economy didn’t stop members

from participating in the business of their cooperative. The annual meeting in 1931 was well attended and President N.P. Hull didn’t pull any punches. He concluded his meeting address by saying: “I have tried to lay before you the absolute truth of the situation as it prevails at the present time. These are dreadful times, but we are going to come out of them. Let us be wise and prayerful and try to bring agriculture out of these times in the best way we can and in doing that we will have done our duty as men, and that is all that angels can do.”

The optimistic attitude that initiated the cooperative in 1916 continued to drive the organization through the Great Depression and World War II. Farmers were charged with the task of producing more and more food for a hungry world at war—and they did. While the young men left the farm to go to war, the families were left behind to expand the farm and increase production.

But post-war concerns surrounded how to use up the expanded milk production.

Once again the membership showed up at their annual meeting and heard this from President Ivan Maystead: “We are told that farmers will not stick together. The Michigan Milk Producers Association, entering the 30th year of its existence, gives the lie to this statement.

True, the association has a constructive program and renders services, but the loyalty and support of its members are the backbone of its existence. Your continued loyalty and support will assure another 30 years of success.”

And it did.

By the 1950s, dairy farming was no longer a way of life but a business and the members of the cooperative wanted more out of their association. Farmers knew how their milk was marketed but they wanted to know more about what the inner workings of the cooperative. While MMPA was created as a bargaining association, it had expanded to become the owner of manufacturing plants, receiving stations and transportation facilities.

N 1959, DEDICATED MMPA MEMBERS FILLED THE MEETING HALL TO CONDUCT BUSINESS OF THE COOPERATIVE

In 1959, milk marketed by the association, reached a new high of 2.3 billion pounds valued at about $95.5 million dollars.

Production per member was up over 64 percent in the previous five years. The following year the annual meeting garnered nearly record attendance and General Manager Jack Barnes informed attendees that MMPA had achieved new records in practically every field in which it was active. Milk numbers were up three percent from the year before and the average dollar returns per member rose 7.5 percent. The following month milk hit $5.30/cwt, the highest in three years.

Through the 60s, 70s and 80s, milk plants were purchased, sold or closed. Milk promotion exploded and milk marketing continued an ebb and flow in efforts to keep farmers profitable. The early 90s brought about a drastic drop in milk prices but increased a resiliency to continue through the difficult days.

Prices would fluctuate, but the dedication of the members to the association and the leaders to the members would continue to grind out a cooperative that would survive into a new millennium and on to celebrate 100 years of business.

Wars, the Depression, bank failures, consolidation, PBB, breaking up of the Superpool, skyrocketing interest rates, soaring commodity prices and the greatest homeland terrorist attack to date would not shake up a membership from meeting every year, without fail to conduct its business.

Dairymen met in 1916 on the campus of Michigan Agricultural College and on March 24, 2016, they will meet again just a few miles west of Michigan State University to ensure a stable, reliable and advantageous market necessary for producer profitability and required to continue to feed a hungry world.

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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FROM THE COWS to the CONSUMERS

2016 MSU DAIRY FARMER OF THE YEAR

Hank Choate

BY ALLISON STUBY

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

W

hen the milk truck turns off the driveway and passes the old bank barn, it’s easy to step back and let the haulers, processors and marketers complete the supply chain. But MMPA Member Hank Choate keeps his eye on the entire milk route, knowing consumer demand for dairy is what truly milks the cow. A dairy farmer with 47 years of experience, Choate is a fervent promoter of dairy and agriculture.

In recognition of his passion for dairy, involvement in the industry and accomplishments on the farm, Choate was recently recognized by the Michigan State University (MSU) Department of Animal Science with the 2016 Dairy Farmer of the Year award.

“I am completely humbled by this award from MSU. I see myself no different than any other producer because I know we all work hard to provide a safe, wholesome and nutritious product for the world. I, along with other farmers, take great pride in fulfilling that need,” Choate admits.

Efficiency for Seven Generations Choate farms with his brother Randy, son Levi, nephew Rick, and seven full time employees on Choate’s Belly Acres. In addition to Levi, Choate and his wife, Katie, have two other children: Stacey, who also assists on the farm, and Dustin, who is a student at Davenport University. Choate and Randy—who took over ownership in 1989—are forming an operating LLC to enable family members to have ownership.

The family’s history on their land in Cement City, Michigan, dates back seven generations to 1837 when the Choate homestead was founded. Choate purchased the homestead from his cousin in 1996, adding it to the main operation established in 1913. Now, all 2,000 tillable acres of Choate’s Belly Acres span three different counties. The farm underwent recent expansions in 2008 and 2012, bringing the milking herd up to 435 cows housed in new and enlarged freestall barns.

The farm continues to maximize efficiencies in various areas of their operation, using Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and accuracy. They maximize feed efficiency through a feed watch system and the assistance of their nutritionist. All forages are grown on their land and the farm brings in additional revenue from cash cropping. Variable planting rates, grid soil sampling and variable application of fertilizer help keep their cropping operations efficient and sustainable.

IN 1991, CHOATE SMILES IN THE FARM’S THEN-NEW DOUBLE 14 PARALLEL PARLOR. TODAY, CHOATE’S BELLY ACRES MILKS 435 COWS IN THE PARLOR THREE TIMES A DAY.

For the last decade and a half, Choate’s Belly Acres has remained 100 percent Artificial Insemination (AI) to breed their cows, with the use of double ovsynch timed breeding.

They rely on weekly check-ins with their veterinarian to assist with breeding and other herd health concerns.

“We emphasize productivity and efficiency in everything we do, by maximizing comfort and minimizing stress of the animals. As best we can, we focus on the bottom line and strive for financial sustainability,” Choate explained.

From the days of crawling between the cows as a two-yearold in the stanchion barn to present day as the farm’s CEO, Choate’s role has evolved in the family business. Today, every morning starts at 3:00 a.m. in front of the glow of a computer screen. Choate monitors market reports and data on his cattle before going out into the barn to keep up with his chores, his cows and his employees. Through time, he has become more a manager of people than a manager of cows.

“I’m still on my first job. Ever since I aced sandbox in kindergarten, I’ve known what I’ve wanted to do,” Choate revealed. “I’m fortunate to have a family legacy built before me and I hope to lay solid foundation for the next generation so the farm will reach its 200th year.”

Promoting for the Next Generation Choate knows the key to ensuring a strong foundation for the next generation: dairy promotion.

“I’m committed to being a consumer advocate and spokesperson for agriculture because some organizations and groups of people try to tell our story in a jaded manner.

Activists against us have a slanted agenda,” he affirmed.

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Choate’s passion has fueled his active involvement in dairy promotion at the local and state level through programs like the Jackson County Fall Fest and MSU Extension’s Breakfast on the Farm. In 2012, Choate’s Belly Acres hosted Breakfast on the Farm and welcomed 2,675 people to the farm for three hours of fun, educational activities. Choate continues to be involved in Breakfast on the Farm as a member of the statewide planning council and convincing fellow farmers to become a host.

“The beauty of Breakfast on the Farm is it is producer-driven. Being there and sharing our story allows us to put a face of producers on the product,” Choate said.

“The program is a great way to continue to build on consumer confidence.

If I lose the confidence of the consumer, there’s nothing I can do efficiently on my farm to make up for the loss in demand.”

Hank Choate 2016 MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year of Choate’s Belly Acres in Cement City Jackson County Plus Local, District 1 Family: Hank and his wife, Katie, have three children, Levi, Dustin and Stacey, and two grandchildren.

CURRENT: MMPA Board of Directors, Greenstone Farm

Herd size: 435 milking cows, 800 total

Credit Board of Directors, NorthStar Advisory Committee,

Acres farmed: 2,000 acres of corn, alfalfa, soybeans

Liberty Township Planning Committee, Columbia Schools

and wheat

Education Foundation Committee, Michigan Farm Bureau

Agriculture, Dairy and Community Involvement:

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Leadership Roles:

Dairy Committee, Breakfast on the Farm Statewide Council

Breakfast on the Farm host, Jackson County Fall Fest

PAST: MMPA Advisory Committee, MMPA District 1 OYDC,

and Jackson Real Dairy Promotion program. Hank

MMPA Local Delegate, MMPA Resolutions Committee,

also hosts tours of the farm to primary and secondary

Jackson County Soil and Water Conservation Committee,

school groups, senior citizen and Boy Scouts and

Hillsdale/Jackson Farmers Home Administration Board

Girl Scouts. He assists with hands-on veterinary

Jackson County DHIA Board, Columbia School Board and

technology training at Baker College

UDIM Board of Directors.

MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

In addition to Breakfast on the Farm, his participation in MSU Extension has provided many opportunities including training on nutrition, finance, management, soils and crops.

“It is humbling to be chosen as the MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year, as I have no formal education beyond high school,” Choate revealed. “MSU Extension programs have been the basis of furthering my education. I’ve also learned through involvement in the industry and observing other agriculture leaders and how they engage in finding solutions.”

Choate holds various leadership positions in the agriculture industry, including organizations such as MMPA, Michigan Farm Bureau and GreenStone Farm Credit Services. Since 2012, Choate has represented District 1 on the MMPA board of directors.

“In today’s economy, it’s important I meet my obligations to MMPA members as a board member. I take seriously our due diligence,” Choate relayed. “If we make the right decisions for today, it will carry us to the next 100 years. The dairy industry is definitely in time of challenge, but over its 100 years the co-op has navigated many challenges and survived. We are strengthening the co-op as we move forward.”

From efficiency on the farm to dairy promotion and industry involvement, Choate is one dairy farmer committed to his passions.

100 years yielding millions more.

This year marks our centennial anniversary and over a decade of paying patronage back to our members. Because of their hard work and dedication, we are returning $35 million of net earnings.

It’s just one more way GreenStone is supporting its cooperative members now and into the future.

800-444-FARM

“As farmers we’re connected to the earth,” Choate illustrated. “It gives us a sense of accomplishment and pride every day.”

PAGE 20: CHOATE WITH HIS BROTHER RANDY (LEFT) AND NEPHEW RICK (RIGHT) IN THE FARM’S NEWLY EXPANDED FREESTALL BARN. PAGE 20, INSET: CHOATE INTERACTING WITH ENTHUSIASTIC BREAKFAST ON THE FARM PARTICIPANTS.

www.greenstonefcs.com

TOP: CHOATE ACCEPTED THE MSU DAIRY FARMER OF THE YEAR AWARD WITH HIS FAMILY AT THE GREAT LAKES REGIONAL DAIRY CONFERENCE ON FEB. 5 IN MT. PLEASANT. PICTURED, FROM LEFT: KATIE CHOATE, HANK CHOATE, STACEY HUGHES AND BRANDON HUGHES.

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Michigan Dairy Ambassador Program Names Two 2016 Representatives

BY JESSICA WELCH Ten Michigan youth were named Michigan Dairy Ambassadors after gathering at the 2016 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference for leadership training, kicking off their year of dairy promotion and outreach.

On Feb. 5, Ambassadors participated in various trainings and workshops including: UDIM resources, active listening skills, preparing effective promotional soundbites and social media 101. Ambassadors will take part in further trainings and represent the dairy industry at promotional and outreach events throughout the year.

“I appreciate the enthusiasm the 2016 ambassador candidates have for the dairy industry. An industry that is, at times, highly scrutinized. Youth

excited about growing the industry is exactly what we need to promote a positive image.” Scott Ferry, dairy farmer, promoter and ambassador judge said.

During the training, candidates were evaluated on their application, their personal introductions, “pick-aquestion” answer and interview. The high scoring junior and senior were named the 2016 dairy ambassador representatives.

Kristen Burkhardt, a junior at Fowlerville high school, was named the 2016 junior dairy ambassador representative and will receive a $1,000 scholarship after her year of service as a Dairy Ambassador.

Charlene McAlvey, a junior at Michigan State University, was named the 2016 senior dairy ambassador representative and will receive a $1,500 scholarship after her year of service as a Dairy Ambassador.

2015 Junior Dairy Ambassador Madeline Meyer and 2015 Senior Dairy Ambassador Natalie Horning facilitated the activities for the day, demonstrating the value of the program to the next class of participants.

KRISTEN BURKHARDT AND CHARLENE MCALVEY, 2016 DAIRY AMBASSADOR REPRESENTATIVES

“The dairy ambassador program has been a very valuable and educational program. The people I have met and the connections I have made throughout my ambassadorship have been both fun and beneficial,” Meyer said about her year as a Dairy Ambassador.

“The Dairy Ambassador program is a great way for young people interested in the dairy industry to develop their leadership skills and expand their network,” Horning added.

The ambassadors and representatives where announced the evening following the ambassador training at the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference’s Michigan Dairy Industry Recognition Night on Feb. 5.

The Michigan Dairy Ambassador program is administered by the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference. To learn more about the Michigan Dairy Ambassador Scholarship and Leadership Program, visit www.glrdc.msu.edu 2016 Senior Dairy Ambassadors: Kayleigh Gratz of Allegan Suzanna Hull of North Adams Charlene McAlvey of Owosso

2016 Junior Dairy Ambassadors: Cindy Alexander of Carsonville Kristen Burkhardt of Fowlerville Mackenzie DeLong of North Branch MICHIGAN DAIRY AMBASSADORS GATHER AFTER THEIR TRAINING DURING THE GREAT LAKES REGIONAL DAIRY CONFERENCE. PICTURED ABOVE: FIRST ROW (LEFT TO RIGHT) KRISTEN BURKHARDT, CHARLENE MCALVEY, SUZANNA HULL, CINDY ALEXANDER, ELYSE ZIMMERLEE. SECOND ROW (LEFT TO RIGHT): MACKENZIE DELONG AND KAYLEIGH GRATZ. THIRD ROW (LEFT TO RIGHT) ALLISON SCAFER, MIRIAH DERSHEM AND JESSICA NASH

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

Miriah Dershem of St. Johns Jessica Nash of Elsie Allison Schafer of Westphalia Elyse Zimmerlee of Bellevue .

Dairy versus Lead MMPA, KROGER DONATE 12,000 GALLONS OF MILK TO HELP FLINT FAMILIES IN WAKE OF WATER CRISIS

I

n January, MMPA and The Kroger Co. of Michigan, in conjunction with the Pediatric Public Health Initiative, delivered 12,000 gallons of milk to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan for distribution to families impacted by the Flint water crisis. Flint’s drinking water has faced a series of problems since April 2014, culminating in lead contamination, a serious public health danger. Knowing foods rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C can help protect children and families from the harmful effects of lead poisoning, the Michigan organizations jumped into action to provide Flint families in need with calcium-rich dairy.

“This milk donation, on behalf of MMPA’s nearly 2,000 dairy farm families, is simply the right thing to do to help Flint families in a tragic situation,” said Ken Nobis, president of MMPA. “I appreciate all those who came together to make this effort possible, especially The Kroger Co. of Michigan, and I’m proud of our dairy farm families who produced the milk here in Flint today. We appreciate the opportunity to work with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan to be sure that families in need have access to milk for their children, and this is clearly a time when milk can make a difference.”

« IN AN EFFORT TO INFORM FLINT RESIDENTS ABOUT THE DANGERS OF LEAD EXPOSURE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF LEAD-FIGHTING NUTRIENTS, MSU EXTENSION PROVIDED EDUCATIONAL FLYERS TO BE DISTRIBUTED WITH EACH OF THE 12,000 DONATED GALLONS OF MILK.

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

"Today's donation of nutrient-rich milk represents an important shift in the type of aid the affected residents need at this time, and moving forward as long-term monitoring and healthcare options are established,” said Ken McClure, Customer Communication Manager for the Kroger Co. Of Michigan. “Kroger thanks our customers, associates, and partners for their generosity thus far, and encourages them to stay with us as we shift focus toward additional efforts to provide nutrient-rich foods, as well as funding."

The donated milk was produced by members of MMPA. The Kroger Co. of Michigan led processing of the milk and packaging into gallon jugs, and Quickway Carriers stepped up and provided the transportation of the milk to Flint. Nobis also recognized Dr. Jeff Dwyer, Interim Director, Michigan State University Extension for providing leadership and planning support for the milk donation project.

“We were blown away by the generosity of Michigan’s dairy farmers and Kroger,” Dwyer said. “All it took was a mention of the how calcium plays a key role in blocking lead absorption, and they were immediately on board with not only donating milk to Flint families, but looking for long-term, sustainable solutions to raising the level of nutritious options available there.”

RESEARCH RELEASED BY DR. MONA HANNA-ATTISHA OF THE PEDIATRIC PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVE, HURLEY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY, BROUGHT ATTENTION TO THE FLINT WATER CRISIS.

KEN MCCLURE, KROGER CO. OF MICHIGAN, AND KEN NOBIS, MMPA, GREETED THE DONATED MILK DELIVERED BY QUICKWAY CARRIERS AT THE FOOD BANK OF EASTERN MICHIGAN.

The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan distributed the milk to their network of partner agencies in late January, ensuring that it reaches families in need who are impacted by the Flint water crisis.

“Food Banks throughout Michigan have received long standing support from both the Michigan Milk Producers Association and the Kroger Co. of Michigan, said William E. Kerr, president of the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. “With the crisis that Flint is facing today, this generous donation of milk will provide a much needed source of nutrition for our children and we are happy to get it into the hands of our partner agencies for distribution to local families.”

GATHERING AT THE FOOD BANK OF EASTERN MICHIGAN ON JAN. 22 TO ANNOUNCE THE MILK DONATION ARE (L TO R): KEN MCCLURE OF THE KROGER CO. OF MICHIGAN, WILLIAM KERR OF THE FOOD BANK OF EASTERN MICHIGAN, DR. JEFF DWYER OF MSU EXTENSION, DR. MONA HANNA-ATTISHA OF THE PEDIATRIC PUBLIC HEALTH INITIATIVE, HURLEY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND MSU, AND KEN NOBIS OF MMPA.

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

U.S. OLYMPIC HOPEFUL, NATIONAL CHAMPION TRACK STAR

Leah O’Connor Signs on to Promote Milk as Healthy Part of Athletic Diet Michigan State University track sensation Leah O’Connor has joined the Milk Means More campaign to shine a light on milk as part of a healthy athletic diet. As part of her work with the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM), O’Connor will promote milk to athletes via special appearances and social media.

UDIM is taking a leading role in promoting the benefits of dairy products to provide the optimum nutrition for growth, bone density, and overall good health. Along with O’Connor, UDIM is working to raise awareness specifically for milk’s protein-carbohydrate-fat balance, which is ideal for building strong athletes.

“The emphasis on ‘real’ food as a critical component to a healthy lifestyle is particularly important for athletes, especially young athletes who are still growing,” said Sharon Toth, registered dietitian and chief executive officer of UDIM. “Partnering with Leah is a way we can inspire people to think about the importance of nutrition in meeting their athletic goals.”

O’Connor, a Croswell, Mich. native, is a U.S. Olympic hopeful. She joins U.S. Olympian Allison Schmitt as a Milk Means More ambassador.

O’Connor’s impressive resume includes running a 4:27.18 mile, earning her the Michigan State University and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) records. To date, she’s won 10 Big Ten

titles and two NCAA Championships.

O’Connor is currently the reigning National Champion in both the indoor mile and the outdoor steeplechase.

“As an endurance athlete, having a base of strength and a focus on nutrition is so important to my ability to train consistently and effectively,” O’Connor said. “Milk provides exactly what I need to set myself up for success every time I run. I grew up with milk at every meal and I know its importance in developing strong bones. This is especially important to teen girls, who may skip milk to cut calories. I’m thrilled to promote its health benefits to other athletes.”

Milk Life, a national dairy organization, is a proud sponsor of Team USA.

U.S. OLYMPIC HOPEFUL, NATIONAL CHAMPION TRACK STAR, LEAH O’CONNOR

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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MERCHANDISE

New Products!

We often look at new products at either the suggestion of a member or when we believe we have found a product that will not only give our members quality products but also save them a little money as well. Two new products meet this criteria.

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

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

Cobalt Blue Glove The Cobalt Blue glove is a 4 mil latex free glove. It is a medical grade, powder free nitrile glove that features a textured grip for added toughness. This glove comes in five sizes including a size we have not been able to offer before, extra small. We think this glove will offer excellent durability and value to our members. Sizes and prices are listed below.

Member price

ECOLAB 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026

Stock #

Description

Size

5073

Cobalt Blue

XSM

$9.50

5074

Cobalt Blue

Sm

$9.50

5075

Cobalt Blue

Med

$9.50

5076

Cobalt Blue

LG

$9.50

or one of the following

5077

Cobalt Blue

XLG

$9.50

service representatives:

Maximizer Full Potential Milk Replacer We are also introducing a new formula of milk replacer. This product is called Maximizer Full Potential milk replacer. This is a protein blend from Land O’ Lakes featuring a 28 percent protein and 16 percent fat formula. Their research has shown that this product provides excellent nutrition and growth in the first eight weeks of life. This promotes better immunological and cellular development in calves. This goes hand in hand with milk production in the first and subsequent lactations. The full protein blend milk replacer can be used in auto feeders and can also be used as a balancer for whole or waste milk you already feed to your calves. Studies have shown that whole and waste milk can be lacking vitamins, minerals and nutritional consistency. Supplementing these products with milk replacer consistently shows significant increases in average daily gain, body length and wither height. The price will be the same as our Growth Formula milk replacer.

For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392

Stan Palmer 2105 Fohl Street SW Canton, OH 44706 330-407-0220 Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell

Stock #

Description

1013

Maximizer Full potential Milk Replacer

Member price

$66.98

7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928

Three Ways to Order your MMPA Merchandise 1. Place 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

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

PREMIUMS MERCHANDISE

MMPA Quality Premium Program

MMPA Member Testing Fees

Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels:

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

50,000 or below...........+55¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000..........+20¢/cwt.

51,000-75,000...............+50¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000.......... +15¢/cwt.

76,000-100,000...........+45¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000......... +00¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000.......... +40¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000.........- 30¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000.......... +35¢/cwt.

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

151,000-175,000............+30¢/cwt.

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

176,000-200,000......... +25¢/cwt.

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

Cow Tests: $1 Cow samples may be tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, gram negative and/or SCC. Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA member representative to include:

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

Raw bacteria count and components.

There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for: • Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count.

All costs are listed per individual sample.

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

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 750,000 or less

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

Additional Tests Available: • Mycoplasma Cultures...........................................................................$13 • Bacteriology Cultures...........................................................................$15 – Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA........................................................................................................$6 • Johne’s Milk Test - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Bovine Leukosis Test - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Milk Pregnancy ELISA.................................................................... $4.50 Lab test results by mail: $2/month All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA member representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol.

ANTEL-BIO TESTING Loc/Hlr/Producer # _________________________________ Sample Date______________________________ Member name_______________________________________________________________________________ Sample ID__________________________________________________________________________________ BLV ELISA__________ Johne’s ELISA____________ Johne’s PCR_____________ Pregnancy_____________

Refer to above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

This card MUST be filled out completely when sending in samples to be tested by Antel-Bio to avoid potential service charges.

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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FREELINERS To place your freeliner ad please call 1-800-572-5824, ext. 202, or fax 248-426-3412, or email your ad to: Muszynski@mimilk.com.

Bulls Registered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top AI sires. Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or visit www.greenmeadowfarms.com.

Service age Holstein bulls. Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548.

10 Bou-Matic 4200 automatic takeoffs $300 each. 10 Bou-matic pulsators with controller $500. 3” low line with receiver and milk pump $800. Vandale CD-3000 silo unloader 20’ center drive excellent condition $700. Houle 3” 12 ft. electric pump for milk house waste water $1,000. Bradford White 75 gal. commercial LP gas water heater $800.

Call 517-331-4475.

Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w, red, red carrier and some polled, high production, low SCC herd. Bulls are priced to sell. Ver Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

Used Single 10 treated cow parlor, heavy duty homemade butt pan, bomatic pulsators and bottom unload claws, newer pulasator control, 7.5 hp. lobe vacuum pump. $6,900 obo.

517-749-9112.

Equipment

43 Head Holstein Dairy Cattle Farm Auction Friday, March 4th.

Farm machinery, draft horses, hay & haylage. For more info and brochure contact Yoder Bros. Auction Service 989-386-9082.

H & S 370 Apron Chain Manure Spreader, tandem axle, single beater, $7,200 obo. 231-425-8825.

1993 Peterbilt 379 short hood with B model cat, 15 speed transmission, $9,500 obo. 231-425-8825.

Dairy Equipment 1999 Dari-Kool 2000 gal. Bulk Tank with 2012 5 hp. compressors (2), washer and Thermo-Stor free heater, excellent condition, $15,000. Bou-Matic variable speed vacuum pump 7.5 hp. $4,000.

Wanted Registered Holsteins.

Call Brent at 989-551-0681.

Herd of milk cows or bred heifers to buy on a milk check assignment.

616-889-0769.

Holstein Cows - herd average 84 pounds & 100 somatic cell - your pick. 734-776-0285.

Misc.

Haylage, corn silage, snalplage.

Delivery available. 231-250-8592.

85 Head Holstein Dairy Cattle Farm Auction Friday, April 8th. Complete line farm machinery and Belgian horses, owner Wm. Byler. For more info and brochure. Yoder Bros. Auction Service 989-386-9082.

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

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

After that, it will be withdrawn.

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

• 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 perline Classified Ad rate.

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

Example: To be included in the April issue, the freeliner must be at the MMPA office by March 10.

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

CLASSIFIED ADS

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

Classified Ads | Michigan Milk Messenger

P.O. BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002

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

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can fix your scabbled floors. Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland.

517-647-7381.

ALFALFA/TIMOTHY/BROME MIX HAY AVAILABLE. Newer seedings, quality net wrapped 4x5 round bales. Stored inside immediately after baling, very nice hay! Big Rapids, 231-598-4871.

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

MIDWEST GOOVING. CONCRETE/ BARN FLOOR GROOVING. We do existing & new construction. We will take the time to consult with you on traffic flow as well as work with your schedule and needs. Family owned & operated for that personal touch. Call Dave @ 920-450-7246 or visit barnfloorgrooving.com. Like us on FB.

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 traction in new & old concrete, fast service. Call for your below pricing 989-635-1494. BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC. FOR SALE: 5000-4000-3000-25002000-1500 OH MUELLER LATE MODEL BULK TANK MILK TANKS, complete, will trade. 1-800-558-0112.

WANTED TO BUY: USED BULK MILK TANKS, 200 gallons & larger, Sunset & Mueller, 1-800-558-0112.

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small bales) and Barley for feed.

989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

DELAVAL PLATE COOLER MODEL MP3DE-81 SS, stainless steel, 81 plates, $2,100. Call 231-920-8025.

FARMERS: INCREASE YIELDS 7 PROFIT by using the 1# crop production system. Distributors needed. 260-768-8137 ext. 1

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MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

ROUNDUP READY II, Liberty Link and MCIA 2323 soybean seeds.

989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

Concrete Grooving and Texturing

PTO and Automatic Start Generators

Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202

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

Cell: 1-716-353-1137

www.hamiltondist.com

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION! A special herd sire or a truck load of breeder bulls.

Ready to go to work on your farm!

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

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

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

POLICIES MERCHANDISE

MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED If a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue: 1. Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested. A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

OR 2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the member must be sure to take the stick reading, record the number of pounds of milk and report the information to their member representative.

• If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be released and shipped.

• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the member representative will authorize the member to dump the tank of milk. The member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* • If for any reason MMPA personnel must pick up samples at the farm for testing three or more times within 12 consecutive months, the member involved will be charged $25 per trip.

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 show negative.

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

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

If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch. The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the Mt. Pleasant warehouse. The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed.

Reimbursement for the Swingline Safety Switch and the voluntary dump will then be made to the member.

The member assumes all liability for losses incurred as a result of shipping poor quality or contaminated milk.

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNT

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

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

If… 1. a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature.

4. MMPA will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made.

If a member has three or more occurances within 12 consecutive months, that member must appear before the MMPA board of directors to review steps taken on the farm to correct the quality problem which will enable MMPA to continue to market the milk for this member.

HAULER A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cells per mL bacteria count will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all are less than 100,000. A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature.

Charges and assessments made under this program will be withheld from milk checks of members or haulers involved.

MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary | FOR MILK MARKETED IN FEBRUARY 2016 Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

%

This Month Year Ago Change Total Class 1 Sales

548,479,574

559,300,347

-1.93

Total Class 2 Sales

346,811,209

314,145,415

+10.40

Total Class 3 Sales

517,813,545

552,496,681

-6.28

Total Class 4 Sales

291,713,516

263,057,410

+10.89

1,704,817,844

1,688,999,853

+0.94

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

32.2%

33.1%

(million pounds)

2015

2014 % Change

Production California

3,435 3,531

-2.7

Wisconsin

2,509 2,410

+4.1

New York

1,221

1,173

+4.1

Idaho

1,162 1,154 +0.7

Pennsylvania 920 917 +0.3

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers................................................................................................5,432 Avg. Daily Production per farm................................................................. 10,124 Avg. Protein Test.............................................................................................. 3.18% Avg. Butterfat Test........................................................................................3.84% Avg. Oth Solids Test...................................................................................... 5.74% Avg. SCC - MMPA......................................................................................156,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33

Michigan

896 846 +5.9

Texas

835 895 -6.7

Minnesota

830 803 +3.4

New Mexico

589

669

-12.0

Washington 560 555 +0.9 Ohio

469 469 +0.0

Indiana

352 342 +2.9

Total U.S.*

16,594 16,544

+0.3

Butterfat Price /lb......................................................................................$2.3062

U.S Y-T-D*

16,594 16,544

+0.3

Other Solids Price /lb................................................................................$0.0371

* For 23 States

Protein Price /lb............................................................................................ $1.8169

Class III Price @ 3.5%.................................................................................... $13.72 Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt...............................................................$0.68 Uniform Price @ 3.5%..................................................................................$14.40 SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000............................................................. $0.00076

AMS Survey Prices Product

Monthly Avg

Cheese /lb........................................................................................................ 1.5178 Butter /lb..........................................................................................................2.0759 Nonfat Dry Milk /lb.......................................................................................0.7776 Dry Whey /lb..................................................................................................0.2351

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National Trends*

MESSENGER | MARCH 2016

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff*

Novi Headquarters

Northwest Area Supervisor Ben Chapin, Blanchard...............................................................989-289-0731

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

Energy Auditor Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI.....................................................906-250-0337

General Manager Joe Diglio............................................................................................. ext. 200

Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.............................................................. 231-519-2455 Deb Gingrich, Leroy................................................................... 248-520-3580 Sarah Michalek, Portland......................................................... 248-305-0537 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard......................................................... 248-756-2062

Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys.....................................................................................ext. 240 Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt.................................................................................ext. 208

Northeast Area

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

Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Fairgrove..................................................248-513-7920

Manufactured Product Sales Jim Dodson.......................................................................................... ext. 229

Animal Care Coordinator, Energy Auditor Lindsay Green, East Lansing................................................... 989-488-8159

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

Animal Care Coordinator Drew Rupprecht, Clio................................................................ 269-986-6793

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

Ben Butcher, Durand.................................................................... 248-514-5273

Sales Michael Morrissey................................................................................ ext. 213

Ashley Herriman, Alpena..........................................................269-245-6632 Bridget Moore, Sears....................................................................231-414-4539

Milk Sales/Dispatch Carl Rasch.............................................................................................ext. 244

South Area

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

Supervisor & Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers........................................................... 269-967-7351 Krista Beeker, Topeka, IN..........................................................269-986-6792 Dave Brady, Grass Lake..................... 517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061 Elyse Martin, Charlotte................................................................810-701-6460 Joe Packard, Kalamazoo........................................................... 248-520-3481

Data Processing Gregory Schulkey............................................................................... ext. 237 Communications Allison Stuby........................................................................................ext. 296

Emily Smith, Bronson.................................................................269-535-0822

Human Resources Cindy Tilden.........................................................................................ext. 220

Other Services

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

Bulk Tank Calibration Gary Best, Lapeer............................810-664-4984 or (c) 586-484-9279

Manufacturing Plants

Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca.......................989-875-3441 or (c) 989-330-1638 Sustainability Coordinator Lynn Nagengast........................................................................... 248-444-6775 Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson, Coleman............................................................. 989-289-9686

Constantine Dave Davis, Plant Manager................................................ 269-435-2835 Ovid Colt Johnson, Plant Manager...........................................989-834-2221

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

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

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant Supervisor: Duane Farmer Main Line...........................................................................................989-317-8370 Toll Free ........................................................................................... 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)........................................................ 800-572-5824, then dial 2

*If you are unable to

reach your assigned member representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area.

Fax....................................................................................................... 989-317-8372 MARCH 2016 | MESSENGER

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