EDITOR’S NOTE

Is anyone else sick of hearing these words: “through these uncertain times?” It’s annoying, but in many ways, it is still true. Even after several months, we continue to face uncertainty and all the stress that comes along with it. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has devastated the lives of so many in our country, with thousands losing their lives and millions becoming ill. For some, things have changed greatly, while for others, many things are still the same. Nevertheless, we must practice empathy for those facing different realities.

The way of doing business worldwide is one area that has evolved and, as always, it is crucial we evolve along with it. Yet even more essential through this year is not getting stuck on just the problems of today, but keeping our focus on building tomorrow, shown in this issue through MMPA’s leadership development and sustainability programs.

On the Cover

Brent and Emily Simon are the latest in a long tradition of outstanding young dairy farmers recognized in MMPA’s OYDC program. Learn about their 930-cow dairy in Westphalia, Michigan on page 16. Plus, we broke down some of the best parts of being an OYDC in an infographic on page 20.

Inside this Issue

Finding common ground is essential in many arenas, but none more visible than with some people’s not-so-favorite topic: sustainability. MMPA Senior Sales Director Jim Feeney starts this issue off (pg. 6) discussing MMPA’s approach with customers on this topic. On page 22, we provide a closer look at how our sustainability program aims to meet others in the middle.

In the midst of everything going on, there is always time to admire the beauty surrounding us all. Many MMPA members know this well and you can see their farms from their lenses with the results of the 2020 photo contest on page 14.

VOL. 103 / NO. 2 Milk Messenger (USPS # 345-320) is published bimonthly by the Michigan Milk Producers Association, 41310 Bridge Street, Novi, MI 48376-8002. Periodicals postage paid at Novi and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002.

President and Chief Executive Officer

Joe Diglio

Managing Editor

Sheila Burkhardt, Senior Director of Member and Government Relations

Editors

Allison Stuby Miller, Communications Manager Emily Kittendorf, Communications Coordinator

Advertising

Emily Kittendorf, messenger@mimilk.com, 248-474-6672, ext. 234

Publication Designer

reZüberant! Inc., Stacy Love rezuberantdesign@gmail.com

Printing

Foresight Group, Stacey Trzeciak staceyt@foresightgroup.net

Publication Office

MMPA Milk Messenger P.O. Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002 p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924 e: messenger@mimilk.com w: mimilk.com

Established in 1916, MMPA is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio. An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D

Subscriptions:

MMPA members - 50¢ per year Non-members - $5 per year

Circulation: 2,600 (ISSN 0026-2315)