Midwest Holsteins Wisconsin Holstein Breeders add value to dairying Supper Club Social Highlights Young Adult Profile: Paul Lippert Check out the latest Treasure Quest calves! June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 1
Upcoming WHA Events June TBD 13 15 16 17 19 27
District 5 Show, Portage District 8 Show, Jefferson District 1 Show, Chippewa Falls Distrct 2 Show, Galesville District 4 Show, Marshfield District 10 Show, Fond du Lac District 3 Show, Lancaster District 6 Show, Janesville District 7 Show, Shawano
July
10-11 Wisconsin Summer Championship Show, Alliant Energy Center, Madison (show dates)
August 6-9 15
Wisconsin State Fair Junior Dairy Show, Wisconsin State Fair Park, West Allis WHA All-Breeds Futurity, Wisconsin State Fair Park, West Allis
September/October
Sept. 29 - Oct. 3 World Dairy Expo * Please note that due to the evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, some of these events may be rescheduled or canceled completely. Please refer to the WHA website for a more current view of events. On the cover: Berglande Airlift B-52, captured by Brittany Olson. Brittany is a dairy farmer, photographer, and lotion maker in Barron County. Brittany and her husband, Sam, are the fifth generation on Berglane Farm several miles west of Chetek.
June/July 2020
Volume 92
Issue No. 5
Official Publication of the Wisconsin Holstein Association Published 9 times per year by the Wisconsin Holstein Association To advertise, call 1-800-223-4269 or email wisholsteins@gmail.com and the WHA staff can assist you.
Features 5 6 10 11 12
Donor Spotlight Wisconsin Holstein breeders add values to dairies Young Adult Profile: Paul L ippert Supper Club Socials prove to be a big hit Treasure Quest Calves
Departments
3 President’s Report 4 Wisconsin Holstein News Briefs 5 Obituaries 10 Welcome New Members 14 Wisconsin Holstein Youth 17 Princess Column 18 Index to Advertisers 6: Value Added Stories
11: Supper Club Socials
www.wisholsteins.com
WISCONSIN HOLSTEIN NEWS: (ISSN 0194-4401) (USPS 688160) is published 9 times for $50 per year by the Wisconsin Holstein Association, 902 Eighth Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913. Periodical postage paid at Baraboo, WI and additional offices. Additional magazines may be purchased at $5.00 for the first copy and $2.00 for each additional copy. Price includes shipping and handling. Due to the uncertainties of the mail, the News cannot assume responsibility or prior delivery of issues carrying advertising of sales scheduled for less than 14 days after the issue date. Advertising is due the 10th day of the month preceding publication, unless otherwise publicized. Advertising cannot be accepted over the phone, except by fax. Ad information must include name, address, phone of advertiser, amount of space needed, color if desired, photos if any and where they are. The Wisconsin Holstein News and its employees do not verify the records, classification scores or any other information that is used in advertising that appears in the Wisconsin Holstein News. The advertiser is solely responsible for the accuracy of all information used in their advertising. The News shall not be held responsible for any loss due to inaccurate information appearing in the News. The employees of the News shall be available to help any member acquire verification for any information appearing in the News. Under federal law, photographer’s pictures are copyrighted and owned by the photographic company. Prints sold are with a “single use” license and, in the case of the News, for use only in current or future issues of the News. Original photos must remain on site and may not be shared as prints or electronically without written permission of the photographic company through which the photo is copyrighted. POSTMASTER: Send address change to: Wisconsin Holstein Association, 902 Eighth Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913 Phone: 1-800-223-4269 or 608-356-2114.
2 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
From the President - Pam Selz-Pralle Greetings Holstein Friends, It’s hard to know what’s coming next. But, there’s one thing we do know. Dairy producers will keep doing their finest every day to care for their animals and provide for consumers. I’m proud to be in the dairy trenches alongside you. Supper Club Socials. A hearty thank you to Norm Nabholz and John Erbsen for their excellent presentations. Attendees gave them high praise for their insightful and often colorful comments. See page 11 for more highlights. Holstein Shows. Your district chairs and staff are working diligently to host district shows and the state show. We are balancing safety precautions, new social guidelines, and varying host site restrictions to provide members with a summer show experience. Be prepared for change! Dates and sites may need to be moved within a few week’s notice. Please be sure to closely follow our website (www. wisholsteins.com) and the WHA Facebook page. If we have email addresses, staff will email those signed up for that show. Juniors. Junior memberships are 768 strong. JAC’s have been busy this spring communicating on Instagram @wijuniorholstein and Snapchat: wijrholstein. With most Junior Holstein, FFA, and 4-H events canceled, the JACs are contemplating regional “Day Camps”. Once plans are finalized, sites located, and safe group sizes determined, they will contact all juniors through social media and email. We have a terrific JAC team and they’re eager to get to work. Scholarships. The Wisconsin Holstein Foundation recently announced it will be awarding $16,000 in scholarships this year. If you would like to support our outstanding Holstein youth, check out the WHA website about contributions, memorials, and named
scholarships. Or, just call Laura. Congratulations to this year’s recipients: President’s Scholarship - Elise Bleck; Marlowe Nelson Memorial Scholarship - Hannah Hockerman; Maurice & Geraldine Cooper Scholarship Nicole Broege; Doris Morris Memorial Scholarship - Marie Haase; John Klossner Memorial Scholarship - Matthew Gunst; John Selz Memorial Scholarship - Eliza Endres; Bradley Fust Memorial Scholarship - Tyler Schroepfer; Gordon Berg Memorial Scholarship - Montana Sarbacker. WHA Scholarship Recipients - Kaylee Mess, Molly Olstad, Mae Buttles, Zach Olson, Ashlyn Sarbacker, Barbara Dittrich, Morgyn Haumschild, and Erin Strauss. During the toughest of circumstances, there is no better time to be thankful for Registered Holsteins. They are that “something extra” that we can control. That we can be proud of. That newborn heifer out of a special cow or simply walking the barns eyeing the results of your breeding brings pride and peace. Seeing your kids dragging calves with excited anticipation for the shows stirs your heart. (Granted, there may be some fighting going on too!) While this pandemic is adding pressure to our already busy and stressed lives, let’s be sure to pause and appreciate the many blessings we do have. One of which is registered cattle and our Holstein friends. Take care. Stay healthy. See you at the shows!
Wisconsin Holstein Association
902 8th Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913 • www.wisholsteins.com Phone 1-800-223-4269 • (608) 356-2114 • Fax (608) 356-6312
BOARD MEMBERS
Pam Selz-Pralle, President (2021)* - 715-334-3434 Steve Endres, Vice President (2022)* - 608-279-5952 Erica Ullom, Secretary (2023)* - 715-933-0477 Sara Feldmann, Exec. Committee (2023)* - 920-980-9704 Ryan Weigel, Exec. Committee (2021) - 608-434-4109 Rick Adams (2023) - 262-374-0793 Craig Carncross (2021)* - 608-592-2560 Bob Cramer Jr. (2021) - 608-558-7775 Joseta Halbur (2022)* - 715-821-9672 Heather Jauquet, (2022)* - 920-371-7511 Craig Krohlow (2023)* - 920-639-5388 Kurt Loehr (2022) - 920-602-0101 *will have served two three-year terms, ineligible for re-election
STAFF
Laura Wackershauser, Executive Director | lauraw@wisholsteins.com Mara Budde, Director of Communications | marab@wisholsteins.com Charitee Seebecker, Director of Sales & Membership | charitees@wisholsteins.com
NATIONAL DIRECTORS
Bob Webb - 920-377-1079 Corey Geiger, President - 920-650-0294 Serving Wisconsin Registered Holstein Breeders for 128 years The Wisconsin Holstein Association was founded in 1890 for the purpose of improving, promoting and securing the best interests possible for breeders and owners of the Holstein cow. WHA continues to provide a membership organization to promote the Wisconsin Holstein Registered breed and its breeders and owners. June/July June/July2020 2020 –– Wisconsin Wisconsin Holstein Holstein News News –– 33
Wisconsin Holstein News Briefs Welcome - Birth Announcements
Jeremy and Kelsi (Hendrickson) Mayer welcome Landon Jeffrey on April 11. Landon weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces and measured 20.5 inches long.
Congratulations
Danae (Bauer) and Erik Sheppelman were joined in marriage on April 4. We wish you the best!
From the desk of...
Laura Wackershauser After a spring filled with uncertainty, we’re moving forward with our district and championship shows (at least at the time we sent this print!). I think everyone is looking forward to getting off the farm and spending some time doing what we love – talking about cows. The WHA staff is working with each of the district show chairs to make sure we’re meeting any guidelines set by the host fairgrounds as well as following our own procedures to make sure holding the shows as safe for everyone as we can make it. This year’s shows may look a little different, but we’ll do our best to make it a good experience for all. During the stay-at-home order, your WHA staff has been working on some new projects as well as catching up on some things that got pushed aside while we were busy planning and hosting the National Holstein Convention. Some of these projects you’ll see in the coming months, while others are contract services for other organizations. I hope you all enjoyed watching our Midwest Spring Show Tournament of Champions unfold on Facebook. This was a fun contest to pull together when we first learned Spring Show would be cancelled. We had great responses to all of the tournament match-ups on Facebook and, in the end, Stookey Elm Park Blackrose-ET was crowned the winner. With all of the spring sales cancelled, you may have extra cows or project calves to sell. We can help you reach a large audience right here in the Wisconsin Holstein News. Along with our 2,000 regular subscribers, the Midwest Holsteins issues reach over 2,000 more readers in the upper midwest states. The News is a great advertising vehicle for all of you to market your Registered Holsteins and we’re here to help you any way we can. Give us a call if you’re interested in advertising, establishing a website for your farm, or any other marketing needs – we can work within your budget! You can see a variety of our work on the back cover of this issue including ad samples, logo design, web creation and photography. Take care and we hope to see all of you at the summer shows!
Laura
4 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
Upcoming Issues & Advertising Deadlines
August/September Issue ads reserved by July 27 District Show Results, Wisconsin Summer Championship Show Results, District 6 Feature, YAC Profile October Issue ads reserved by Sept. 9 Midwest Holsteins, Wisconsin State Fair Results, WHA AllBreeds Futurity Results, District 7 Feature The full 2020 schedule as well as advertising information is available at www. wisholsteins.com/rates-advertising-deadlines. Those with questions can contact Mara, marab@wisholsteins.com or 800-223-4269 ext. 2.
Obituaries Grace Piechowski
Grace Piechowski, 70, of Waupaca, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 7, after waging a valiant fight against cancer. Grace was born on January 14, 1950, to the late Jim and Ione (Throne) Holman. She met the love of her life, Dick Piechowski, at the Waupaca County Fair where she was showing dairy cattle and he was exhibiting sheep. After graduating from Waupaca High School, she attended UW-Stout to study early childhood education. Grace and Dick married in July 1969 and started farming with her parents at Holmland Farms. One of Grace’s greatest pleasures was the development and support of the personal and professional lives of her children, Sandy and Jim. For over 50 years, the family worked side-by-side on their dairy, sheep, and vegetable farm. Grace oversaw the daily and financial operations of the 40-acre vegetable enterprise, running the gamut from planting to growing to harvesting to sales. Grace took pride in providing high-quality vegetables freshly picked each day and sold at the well-known farmer’s market truck in Shawano. She exemplified her name of Grace in her service to others, devotion to family, and steadfastness in faith. Grace volunteered as a leader and advisor for a myriad of organizations, such as the Crystal Lake Busy Bees 4-H Club, the local and state Holstein Association, and the Manawa and Waupaca FFA Chapters. Ushering for many years at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church allowed her to help others and be active in her faith community. She received many honors and awards from associations for her leadership, including the Wisconsin FFA Honorary Degree. She also served the community as a Dayton Township Election Supervisor. Survivors include her husband Dick Piechowski; children Sandy (Alan) Cordes and Jim Piechowski; and sister Ruth Holman. Additionally survived by her extended family: nieces Alicia (Ben) Wallin and Michelle (Dan Holmes) Holman and their children; her in-laws Marge Piechowski; John (Marilyn) Piechowski; Bob (Alice Petersen) Piechowski; Jean Piechowski; JoAnne (Tom) Dolata; Mary (Derald) Kettlewell; George (Mary) Piechowski; Kathy (David) Pino; Mark (Lori) Piechowski; and Jeanne (Bob) Welch. Nieces and nephews further survive her: Jerry Piechowski; Dan (Gina) Piechowski; Ron (Susie) Piechowski; Monica (John) Augustine; Mike F. (Laura) Piechowski; David (Siobhan) Piechowski; Mike D. (Bethany) Piechowski; Barb Piechowski; Anna Kettlewell; Andy (Sarah) Kettlewell; Alex Pino (Becky Calhoun); Greg Pino; Steven Piechowski; Paul Piechowski; Ben Piechowski; Josh Piechowski; Luke Piechowski; Adam (Hannah Renfro) Welch; Sarah (Matthew
Donor Spotlight Thank you to those that have made memorial scholarship contributions to the Wisconsin Holstein Foundation: • Niles & Carolyn Wendorf in memory of Al Kayser • Robert & Angela Tramburg Charitable Fund in memory of Al Kayser • Rock County Holstein Breeders in memory of Al Kayser • Mary Foster in memory of Al Kayser • William & Jean Ehrke in memory of Al Kayser Donations to the Wisconsin Holstein Foundation can be done by calling Laura Wackershauser, WHA Executive Director at 800-223-4269 ext. 1. The Wisconsin Holstein Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization with the purpose of funding scholarships and educational programming for the betterment of Wisconsin Holstein adult and youth members. Donations are tax deductible but please check with your accountant.
Jonas) Hackett; and Peter (Brianna) Welch. Many other grandnieces and grandnephews and other dear relatives and friends are survived by her as well. In addition to her parents and brother Kirk Holman, Grace was preceded in death by her in-laws Henry and Esther Piechowski, brothers-in-law Don Piechowski and Joe Piechowski, nieces and nephews Lori Dolata Bultman, Matt Piechowski, Christopher Piechowski, Logan Piechowski, and Hannah Piechowski. Teresa Kingston Coyne
Teresa Kingston Coyne, 81 years, of Avon, New York, died Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at her home. She was born in Geneseo, NY, on May 2, 1938, the daughter of Walter and Regina (Powers) Kingston. Teresa is survived by her children, Peter (Lisa) Coyne of Spring Valley, WI, Katie Coyne (Grant DeBruin) of Johnson Creek, WI, Joan (Doug) Seidel of Fleetwood, PA, and John (Shannon) Coyne of Roswell, Georgia, nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, two sisters, Ceil (Paul) Becker of Snyder, NY, and Carol (Gerald) Coyne of East Avon, NY, one brother, George (Mary Jo) Kingston of Elba, NY, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Ted and Dorothy Coyne of Avon, NY, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Tom, parents Walter and Regina, siblings Mary Jean, Helen Pat, Walter, and Catherine, and several in-laws. Teresa spent her entire life in the Genesee Valley, growing up just outside Geneseo and spending her adult life in Avon. The trip between the two towns along the east side of the valley was always cherished. Letchworth State Park and the Monastery held special places in her heart. Raised on her family’s farm, the youngest girl in a family of 10, she learned the value of hard work, service, and respect for the animals and the land. In 1958, Teresa married Tom Coyne. Throughout her marriage to Tom she worked in partnership with him on the farm and in their auction business. She was gifted at feeding both kids and calves and became an expert at writing ads and cashiering sales for Tom’s auction business. Following his passing, she was honored to work at Noblehurst Farms and Wegmans. She was a longtime member of the Livingston County Holstein Club and a 4-H leader. Saint Agnes Church, her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, her nieces and nephews, and the news of the day were essential in her life. Teresa’s family would like to thank all of her nieces, nephews, and nurses who cared for Teresa in her final years.
The latest information regarding WHA events can be found on the WHA website. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, we will learn if any scheduled summer events need to be rescheduled for the safety of our membership. We are continuing to monitor the situation and will be doing our best to keep our membership safe while enjoying summer events. Please visit the website and the WHA Facebook page for the latest updates on these events. Website: www.wisholsteins.com Facebook: @WisconsinHolsteinAssociation If you have questions, please contact us at 800-2234269 or wisholsteins@gmail.com. June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 5
Wisconsin Holstein Breeders add value to dairies though diversification and direct marketing Now more than ever farms are looking for vways to add value to their dairy business. Wisconsin Holstein members have been resourceful in their pursuit keeping their dairies going while enjoying a side business. This series of short articles will explore what four Holstein farms have been doing to expand their business efforts. See how these dairies direct market cheese, sell produce and canned goods grown and crafted on the farm, and market specialty beef, while showing consumers how farms work.
Garden Valley Farmstead, Hixton
Garden Valley Farmstead Justin and Darci Daniels Weston, Sadie and Hazel 50 milk cows Holsteins and Brown Swiss Social: @GVFarmstead @gardenvalleyfarmstead
Website: www. gardenvalleyfarmstead.com
W
hen the Daniels family’s milk market was almost in jeopardy in 2017, they made the decision to start direct marketing their milk by producing farmstead cheese. “We decided at that point it wasn’t going to be ‘if ’ we lose our market again but ‘when’ being that we are a small herd with limited growth potential. So we wanted to give it a try and see where it would take us,” Darci Daniels says. Darci and her husband, Justin, both grew up on dairy farms. After Darci’s parents sold their dairy, Darci’s father started working as a cheesemaker which helped grow her interest in direct marketing to consumers. The Daniels family cares for 50 Registered Holsteins and Brown Swiss milk cows in a tie-stall barn. The herd is seasonally grazed, 6 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
too. A portion of their milk is trucked to a farmstead creamery not far from their operation for their own line of white cheddar cheese under the Garden Valley Farmstead label. The final product is sent back to the farm where it’s sold at their farm store, online, at the local farmers market, through home deliveries, and at two local grocery stores. Cheeses are named after favorite cows and come in plain or flavored, such as Bold Bacon, Pepper Cheddar, or Onion and Chive. In addition to their thriving cheese business, Darci and Justin sell beef that is raised on their farm and processed through a local butcher as well as homegrown produce. Other local products can be found in their store including pork, honey, maple syrup, and dry goods sourced f Justin and Darci have three young farmers, Weston (4.5), Sadie (3), and Hazel (5 months). By starting this business, the Daniels family has taken a look at how they farm. “It’s also challenging us to ask ourselves tough questions about sustainability and meeting the needs of our customers while also making our farm an enjoyable place for us to raise our family,” says Darci. “It’s a lot more work, but to hear positive feedback from customers definitely makes the long hard days worth it.” Through their farmstead journey much has been learned about owning this type of business from dairy processing to marketing to consumer preferences and buying habits. “The biggest lesson and obstacle has been that for our customers, convenience is king. How can we make our products easier for them to purchase and use?” Darci says. For Darci, the best part of owning this business is connecting people to the farm and seeing them enjoy the food that they produce. One of these ways is by giving farm tours and having those on the tours experience petting the animals during open farm tour days. “We really love opening our farm to our community so they better understand where their food comes from,” she says. The Daniels family works and lives by a saying from Maya Angelou: “Do the best you can until you know better and then when you know better, do better.”
Crimson Kitchen and Gardens, Watertown
“It started as a hobby and turned into a necessity that morphed into a business a few years ago,” says Shelly Grosenick of her business, Crimson Kitchen and Gardens in Watertown. Shelly grows more than 100 varieties of fruits and vegetables on her half acre garden, many of them heirloom varieties - fun colored or rare varieties not sold in the grocery store. Shelly and her husband Jim, operate a 250-cow dairy, Crimson Ridge Dairy. With the ups and downs of dairying, Shelly says she examined how she used every inch of the farm including the garden and kitchen. Part of the creation of Crimson Kitchen and Gardens came about when Shelly became ill with an autoimmune disease, creating a challenging relationship with food. This is when a hobby bloomed into a full business. From the garden, she makes homemade canned goods under the Wisconsin Pickle Bill. These items include canned goods like salsa, jams, jellies and pickles, homegrown seedlings and extra garden produce. Items not sourced from the garden are either purchased locally or from bulk outlets. Items grown seasonably like strawberries are fun for Shelly’s garden helpers, their children Maddy and Tucker, because they love picking them. This past year she started making
Crimson Kitchen and Gardens Jim and Shelly Grosenick Maddy and Tucker 250 Holstein milk cows Social: @CrimsonKitchenandGardens
soap and this has been a popular sales item. Baked items such as rhubarb pies are also a hit with customers. Shelly sells her goods at local farmers markets and vendor events. Some of her fan favorites for sweet jam include Bourberry Jam, Amaretto Cherry, Christmas Jam and her latest creation, Whiskey Old-Fashioned Jelly. “This business complements the dairy part of our farm so well as we are a full-circle family farm,” Shelly notes. “We can be more efficient and utilize so many more of our resources with this diversification.” Learning occurs everyday for both the kids and Shelly but she’s learned the most important lesson is what works best for their farm, despite what others say or suggest. With this, “teaching my children, hands down, is the single most joy of my business,” Shelly says. “The many diverse people I’ve met have been a huge blessing in our lives and it is very rewarding getting to know customers and consumers on a personal level.
Harmony Specialty Foods, Stratford
With a vision of adding value over volume to help stabilize the milk price for Harmony-Ho Holsteins, the Bredl family started Harmony Specialty Dairy in June 2007. The Ralph and Sharon Bredl family milks 600 Registered Holsteins at their dairy in Stratford. Ralph and Sharon are both owners in the business while Ralph acts as the business manager and Sharon manages the office. Daughter Martine Bredl-Lueck works on the dairy side as the Herd/Genetics Manager while retaining ownership in the business as well. Cows are housed in a freestall barn and milked in a parlor with the genetic focus being on net merit and conformation. A variety of cheeses are made from the milk from the herd. Their plant is the old Cloverbelt plant later purchased by Marathon Cheese Corp. When they were starting out, the family had help from former Cloverbelt cheesemakers, Gary Miller and Al Graveen. Ralph says, “The dairy produces a number of cheeses with an emphasis on ‘difficult and unusual’ attribute cheeses ranging from Parmesan (dry) to Mozzarella (soft) and everything in between.” Their specialty line is the Golden Age British style cheeses: Abergele, Kidwelly Castle, Double Gloucester Style, Caerphilly Style, Nut Brown Ale Caerphilly, and Cheshire style. These blocks feature a traditional British portrait and can be found at local farmers markets, deli groceries, and retail specialty shops nationwide. So why a specialty line of British cheeses? “We have several dear friends in Wales, UK, and it holds a romantic spot in our heart for their culture acquired through repeated visits,” says Ralph. Other specialty cheese items made at the dairy include: • Waxed Cheddar horns for Texas Deli Grocery • Waxed 3-pound Cheddar wheels for gifts and fundraisers
From Right - Ralph, Sharon, Owen (grandson), Matt (son in law), Martine
Harmony Specialty Dairy Foods Harmony-Ho Holsteins - The Bredl Family 600 Holstein milk cows Social: Website: www. harmonyspecialty.com
@HarmonySpecialty
Aged Classics Cheeses: Caerphilly Style: White Welsh Miners Cheese, Double Gloucester-Style Cheese: Mellow and Nutty, Cheshire-Style Cheese: Full bodied, buttery, salty with a lemony finish; Abergele Cheese: a tribute to Abergele, North Wales Entertainers Pleasure Cheeses: Nut Brown Ale Caerphilly Cheese: Caerphilly curds soaked in Nut Brown Ale from Bull Falls Brewery; Kidwelly Castle: Creamy whole milk cousin of Parmesan aged one year; Merlot Wine Infused Cheddar (below and left); Caerphilly Cheese
June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 7
Walk-Era Farms Beef The Walker Family 100 Holstein milk cows Social: @WalkEraFarms
The Walkers are working on furthering their brand and are considering a website to showcase their product and reach more people.
• Various varieties of waxed retail cheese for the Southeastern US market • Hi Koster cheeses such as 40-pound blocks, private label retail cuts, shred for food ingredients for the Orthodox Jewish Community across the nation • Foodservice and food ingredients represent a large volume With anything in dairy, running a small value-added cheese plant has brought challenges. “Harmony Specialty Dairy has periodically buffered lightly Harmony-Ho from milk price depressions but not to the degree I had envisioned in 2007,” Ralph says. The food market is a highly competitive place with a very small market for high cost of production foods. “I will never discourage anyone’s entrepreneurial spirit because this is the foundation of the USA economy. But, the reality of selling the large volume of product required to sustain a value-added business is enormous and a huge constant challenge,” Ralph notes. From making their own products, the Bredls have learned that quality cheese is easy to make but difficult to market in volume. Ralph also says that food safety rules and laws are very intense and costly for those making dairy products at a small volume. But for the family it’s enjoyable to see a “satisfied, happy, appreciative repeat customer,” Ralph says.
Walk-Era Farms Beef, Wisconsin Dells
The Walker family in the Wisconsin Dells raised their Holstein steers for beef for a number of years so they could enjoy homegrown beef whenever they pleased. Over time, they stopped doing this to focus on the female side of their Holstein dairy. The family missed their homegrown product and when looking at beef rearing options, they chose to cross their Holsteins with the Wagyu beef breed. The Wagyu cross allows animals to grow and finish on a forage-based diet, have extreme marbling, and these crosses possess a great disposition. To make the decision even better, the cross fits in nicely into their existing farm set-up and facilities. In their research on dairy-beef crosses, they learned that Holstein marbling combined with the Wagyu extreme marbling yields great flavor in a shorter time frame than raising pure Wagyu. Some consumers even prefer the Wagyu-Holstein cross beef over purebred Wagyu due to texture. Walk-Era Farms is home to 100 milking Registered Holsteins who spend their days in a tiestall barn and are milked in a parlor. Family members involved in the dairying side of the business include John, 8 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
Tim, Tom and their families. Marci heads up the organization of processing and marketing the beef while everyone promotes and sells their farm fresh product within their social circles. Unlike some beef breeds that finish more quickly, the WagyuHolstein crossbred reaches mature spiderweb-like marbling throughout the muscle around 22 to 24 months. This fat melts at a lower temperature so meat is best cooked low and slow with a watchful eye which also gives the cuts a rich, buttery flavor and incredible tenderness, Marci notes. Of this fat, the Wagyu-Holstein cross has a higher percentage of monounsaturated fat and low cholesterol content, making it very healthy. “After raising our first crossbred and having it processed, we were hooked on the taste. We shared it with family and friends who quickly took to the tasty product. We have really enjoyed educating and sharing it with others now too,” Marci says. Walkers put semen in their first bottom end Holstein genetics in 2015 and currently slaughter about 12 animals per year. Animals are harvested on-farm to create a stress-free environment, making the end result more tender and flavorful. Beef carcasses are aged for three weeks before they are cut if customers choose to age. Aging provides added flavor and tenderness to the meat. The Walkers sell their beef as cut bundles, quarters, halves and wholes to those looking for a locally raised, specialty beef product. For Marci and family, keeping open communication and helping with meat education is an important part of their business. With each product purchased, she provides information on proper cooking methods to ensure the customer gets the best experience with their beef. Follow-up is also important to the family as they grow their business and learn customer habits and preferences. “While we were “pure” Holstein breeders, it was a huge decision to try this when we did it, but slowly testing the water and taking the risk has definitely given us the reward of having extra income and connecting more with consumers on our farm. We love teaching them more about where their beef and dairy comes from and how it is grown,” Marci says. Selling beef on the side has helped the Walkers with cash flow, particularly as the dairy genetics industry has slowed down. Be sure to find these farms, as well as other members with value added businesses online. Many have social platforms and websites. During these times it’s important to support your fellow Holstein enthusiasts so please consider making a purchase or just sharing a post to spread the world.
June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 9
WISCONSIN HOLSTEIN
Young Adults I remember being in the elevator with the princess that year-I was in awe! I spent many years competing in dairy bowl and other activities and was Outstanding Holstein Boy in 2007. I also was given the opportunity to serve as a JAC. Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at Grass Ridge Farm. Depending on the day I am the Herdsman, Human Resources Manager, Agronomist, and/or Financial Analyst!
B REEDER B USINESS C ARDS
How do you continue to stay involved with Registered Holsteins?
Don’t wait for them to Fall, CALL!
Barn Floor Grooving • Serving all states
We strongly believe in the merits of the registered cow. We breed for an all-around cow and enjoy classifying the whole herd annually. We continue to show at the Central Wisconsin State Fair every fall. In addition, I help chair the Purple Ribbon Sale that we host in Wood County every spring and really enjoy getting out and talking with other breeders while selecting.
• All classes of livestock facilities • 4 grooving options to fit your needs • Milk parlors • Holding pens • Feed Lots Trisha Blaser, Paul Lippert, Carl Lippert and Matt Lippert 920.723.1557 Dave Schmocker • Freestalls 260.402.4494 Pat Conroy • Alleys Dairy people Paul Lippert, 31 - Pittsville, Wis.helping dairymen.
What is your biggest accomplishment or proudest moment?
Where did you grow up and what is your educational background?
I grew up in Pittsville on the home farm where we continue to dairy. At the beginning it was a 40-cow dairy with Registered Holsteins, but we grew to about 100 cows. In 2000, when I was still a boy, it grew to a 350-cow dairy and today we milk 550 Registered Holsteins and now also Jerseys. I have a Dairy Science degree from Doug, Linda, UW-River Falls. Clint, Corey & Tammy Hodorff
Hwy. W, Eden, WI 53019 How didN3832 you get involved in the Wisconsin Holstein Association? Tel: (920) 477-6800 • Fax: (920) 477-2520 What activities did you take part in or do take part in? E-mail: My family has mail@secondlookholsteins.com been very active in the Holstein Association for many years. My grandma Marge helped look! start the first junior Stop in anytime for a second convention and my father was a JAC. I still remember my first convention! There was a blizzard and it was in Stevens Point –
BULLSHIPPER Semen Sales
Triple Hill Sires Semex Jetstream Genetics Craig Krohlow | 920-639-5388
W4203 Shady Rd., Black Creek, WI 54106 Black Creek, WI 54106
10 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
Seeing the advancement of the herd in the last 10 years has given us a great source of pride. With the use of genomics and using top bulls for fitness, production, and type you really can see how far the breed has come in a relatively short time! Cows can look pretty, be fertile, and make a lot of fat and protein - all at the same time!
Rickert Bros. LLC
What are your future plans? Holsteins Home of Rickland
To continue dairy farming and beat the odds by making it a Jim venture & Kelly, & gives Laura, profitable as wellGreg as one that us time to enjoy our lives off the farm as well. I want to continue Andrew & Shannon,breeding cows that work hard and do it with ease but occasionally can make us proud in the show ring! Don & Lila Rickert
Eldorado, WI 54932
Any other comments you’d like to add? rickertkel@gmail.com • 920-960-9640
The world is a crazy place for good and for bad. Approach every RHA: cowsattitude, 31,221treat 3.9your 1220 3.0 and 943your coworkers/ day with1037 a positive family 24 Year Progressive Genetics Herd employees with the respect they deserve. If you can do that you are well on your way to success in anything you do!
Welcome New Members!
Expanding Hoof-Trimming Juniors AdultsBusiness! Kristi Cleven, Kendall Charlie Knigge , Omro Please call Turner Calhoun, Elroy Dave Schmocker, Garrett Calhoun, Elroy 920-723-1557 Eddie Dittrich, Alma Nolan• Haertl, DePereof experience, references available 15+ years Henry Krahn , Brillion • 3 full-time hoof trimmers Nick Prosek, Lodi • Appleton steel Upright Comfort Chute
• Large & small herds
You must be a member to exhibit at Wisconsin Holstein shows, • Your satisfaction is our guarantee! membership be radius found at • Servingforms a 200can mile ofwww.wisholsteins.com. Madison, Wis.
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Midwest Holsteins SUMMER 2020
Iowa • Michigan • Minnesota • Ohio • Wisconsin
Unlimited Type
Our -Favorite Compelling VG-88-2Y Unlimited’s daughter by Hang-Time
Compelling’s Milk Records 1-11 2x 305 23460 5.0 1172 3.6 845 365 27580 5.0 1389 3.7 1019 3-07 2x 175 19943 4.6 927 3.4 679 RIP Compelling has 4 daughters and 3 granddaughters over 3.7 PTAT. Granddaughter Velthuis Crushabull Colandra at 4.02 PTAT is tied for #1 in the world. Twenty of the top 50 females for type have Unlimited in their pedigree. Compelling also has embryos available by Boom. @Cade Stanek
You can buy Compelling’s King Doc son Charisma through the Holstein Marketplace or contact your Holstein Field Representative. 2536 GTPI +518 Milk +53 Fat +27 Protein
3.07 PTAT A2/A2
CADE, TODD and MARY STANEK E12600 County Road JJ, Fall Creek, Wisconsin, 54742 USA Todd: +1 715-456-8718 // Cade: +1 715-577-5379 primecow2@aol.com // facebook.com/OurFavoriteHolsteins
UNMATCHED DOMINANCE!
Dairy cattle judging is strong at the University of Minnesota,
so strong that its teams have placed 1st overall in 8 of the 15 contests held over the past 5 years at the All-American Dairy Show (Harrisburg, PA), the North American International Livestock Exposition (Louisville, KY), and World Dairy Expo (Madison, WI). Also, the University of Minnesota has placed 1st or 2nd overall in 20 of the 30 contests in these 3 contests over the past 10 years. No other university comes close to this incredible record of success. If you want a career in the dairy industry, consider the University of Minnesota. In addition to participating in our highly successful dairy judging and dairy challenge
programs, you can join the Gopher Dairy Club, whose student members gain experience and industry contacts through many activities such as an all-expense-paid 10-day senior trip to California in January. Both inside and outside the classroom, our dairy professors make teaching and working with students their top priority. Learn more today at ansci.umn.edu
GO F O R T H E
GOLD! www.umn.edu 612.624.2277 www.ansci.umn.edu
MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020-3 The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.
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Wisconsin Holstein Association 902 8th Ave., Baraboo, WI 53913 Phone (608) 356-2114 • Fax (608) 356-6312 1-800-223-4269 wisholsteins@gmail.com
www.wisholsteins.com WISCONSIN HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION STAFF: Laura Wackershauser, Executive Director Mara Budde, Director of Communications Charitee Seebecker, Director of Sales & Membership WISCONSIN HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS: Pam Selz-Pralle, President - Humbird, 715-334-3434 Steve Endres, Vice President - Waunakee, 608-279-5952 Erica Ullom, Secretary - Bloomer, 715-933-0477 Sara Feldmann, Exec. Committee - Howards Grove, 920-980-9704 Ryan Weigel, Exec. Committee - Platteville, 608-434-4109 Rick Adams - Elkhorn, 262-374-0793 Craig Carncross - Lodi, 608-592-2560 Bob Cramer Jr. - Juda, 608-558-7775 Heather Jauquet - Pulaski, 920-371-7511 Joseta Halbur - Eden, 715-821-9672 Craig Krohlow - Black Creek, 920-639-5388 Kurt Loehr - Eden, 920-602-0101
NATIONAL DIRECTORS: Corey Geiger, President - 920-650-0294 Bob Webb - 920-377-1079
Midwest Holsteins INDEX TO ADVERTISERS 2022 National Holstein Convention .................................. 5 Bill & Leah Kurth & Clancy Kurth ................................ 16 Golden Holsteins ............................................................ 16 Green Meadow Farms .................................................... 27 Lida Acres ........................................................................ 24 Marathon County ...................................................... 20-22 Michigan State University .............................................. 17 Minnesota Directory of Services .................................... 26 Olmar................................................................................18 Our Favorite........................................................................2 Pine Tree Dairy ................................................................28 Pinnacle Genetics/Brenhaven Jerseys ........................ 14-15 Plain Knoll Holsteins ...................................................... 19 Rod-er-Dic ...................................................................... 13 Silent-b Holsteins .............................................................. 6 Star Summit .................................................................... 25 Stein-Way Dairy .............................................................. 23 Sugar Creek Dairy .......................................................... 12 University of Minnesota .................................................... 3 University of Wisconsin-Madison .................................... 7 cover photo by Rachel Coyne
MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020 - 5
Recent Production Highlights Lifetime Records Nor-J Atwood 1915 GP 83 • 3-02, 342d, 32,742lbs, 3.9BF, 1277lbs • Due 5/20/2020 to Pinehurst Medallion • The Elgance’s Nor-J Atwood 1839 VG 85 • 3-10, 387d, 35,923lbs, 4.0BF, 1445lbs • Due 7/6/2020 to Pinehurst Medallion (twins) Nor-J Genom 1827 VG 85 • 4-00, 370d, 37,254lbs, 3.9BF, 1482lbs Nor-J Baccort 1695 G 78 • 5-07, 429d, 41,241lbs, 4.0BF, 1644lbs • Due 5/12/2020 to Ammo-P
Nor-J Advent 1344 VG 85 • 9 lactations, 191,283lbs, 8750BF, 6223lbs • Daughters by Trump & Unix • Dam: Nor-J Outside 1112 EX 92 LTD 180,816lbs • Her sister Nor-J Buckeye Becky 1260 VG 88 LTD 272,241lbs • She’s working on her 10th lactation Nor-J Sportsman 1594 EX 90 • 7 lactations, 161,663lbs, 7422BF, 5223lbs • Daughters by Shot, Impression, Crank-IT, & Gold Chip
Ravendale Kingboy Amber VG 88 EX MS • Fresh 5/2/2020 • Milking 177lbs @ 12 days • 4th Dam KHW Regiment Apple-Red-ET Quality-Quest Fancifire-ET EX 94 3E • 10-01, 308d, 37,358lbs, 3.8BF, 1445lbs • 8 Lacts. 254,777lbs, LTD • Due 5/23/2020 to High Octane
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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GRADUATING
DAIRY SCIENCE MAJORS
“When we are past this crisis, you will see many new opportunities — opportunities to re-engage the economy, to re-build personal connections, and to figure out how to live together in ways that reduce the threat of future pandemics. Our world will change permanently because of this global shared experience. Your diploma from this great public university is your ticket to be part of that change.” Chancellor Rebecca Blank
Contacts: Dr. Kent Weigel/ Ted Halbach 1675 Observatory Drive, Room 266 Madison, WI 53706-1205 Andysci.wisc.edu
Maria Balbach - Gratiot, WI Meikah Dado - Amery, WI Allissa Frisle - Prairie Farm, WI Ava Gard - Brooklyn, WI Carmen Haack - Algoma, WI Caleb Hamm - Waupaca, WI Megan Hansen - Onalaska, WI Summer Henschel - Chilton, WI Anna Hinchley - Cambridge, WI
Debbie Machuca - Chicago, IL Michael Moede - Algoma, WI Derek Nelson - Waukesha, WI Aisha Olson - Oregon, WI Emma Olstad - Stoughton, WI Zachary Servais - Stoddard, WI Alyssa Templeton - Evansville, WI Brooke Trustem - Evansville, WI Keisha Verbeten - Wrightstown, WI MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020 - 7
Midwest Registered Holstein Breeders share experiences with social media marketing GENOSOURCE Iowa 2,800 milk cows 5,000 youngstock Website: www.genosource.com Social: @GenoSource @genosource Rick Simon, Mark Butz, Tim Rauen, Bill Rauen, Tom Simon and Kyle Demmer
Farms have different ways to promote their genetics. Many use social media to achieve this goal. As a collective group of Midwest editors we reached out to breeders in our respective states to see how they use social media sites to enhance the value of their genetics, reach awareness or sales goals or work to promote dairy to consumers. If you are an avid user of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or the like, be sure to check out these dairies and breeders. We hope you enjoy this combined roundtable and learn a little about how to better your social media marketing efforts. Farm name and family information Genosource, Iowa: GenoSource was formed in 2014 by a group of dairymen who had one goal in mind and that was to create a more efficient and profitable cow. This group consists of Mark Butz, Tom and Rick Simon, Tim Rauen and Pat Carrol. Pine Hills Dairy, LLC/Blackview Jerseys, Howard City, Mich. answered by Amber Black: The farm is a partnership between my cousin John, brother Carl and I. We are the sixth generation to own and operate the farm. Plain-Knoll Holsteins – Buschur Dairy Farms, Inc., New Weston, Ohio : Four brothers are currently involved – Pat, Jake, Jim and Steve as well as Steve’s daughter Mackenzie and numerous other nieces and nephews. Over the years we’ve had a couple dozen family members work at the dairy throughout their high school and college years. Bert-Mar Farms, Osseo, Wis. - answered by Erica Lundberg: I farm with my dad, Allan, and boyfriend, Graham, on our family farm named Bert-Mar Farms — after my grandfather, Obert, and grandmother, Marjorie. 8 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020
Schoene Kuh Dairy, Millville, Minn. owned by Staci Sexton: I farm with my parents, Vince and Sheri Sexton, and my younger brother Lance. However, we have separate farms, I am the sole owner of Schoene Kuh Dairy. We have separate bulk tanks and separate DHIA tests.
Herd information Genosource: We operate a 2,800 cow dairy based in Blairstown, Iowa as well as a 5,000 youngstock location in Fremont, Iowa. Our milking herd is managed in a freestall environment and are all milked in a 60 cow rotary parlor. Our herd is milked three times per day and averages 90 pounds per day with a 3.9% fat, and 3.23% protein. We work with our nutritionist to feed five different TMR rations based on lactation stage. Black: We milk 320 cows, mostly Holstein, some Jerseys and a couple Brown Swiss. We use individual calf hutches for babies at weaning then move to transition group housing and at approximately eight months, they move to open housing where they run on pasture year around until they are approximately three weeks from calving. Cows are housed in freestall barns and during the warmer months the late lactation cows have access to pasture. Dry cows are housed outside year around. All the milk cows are fed a TMR in which we push a high forage diet. Dry cows and heifers are fed baleage or dry hay and corn silage. Our Holstein RHA is 25,110 4.0% 1005 F 3.2% 804 P and Jerseys average 16,804 5.0% 840 F 3.7% 622 P. Plain-Knoll: We milk around 690 Registered Holsteins in a freestall set-up with a double 20 parallel parlor. We raise most of our own forages on about 1200 acres. Our rolling herd average is 30,267 milk,
PINE HILLS DAIRY, LLC/ BLACKVIEW JERSEYS Howard City, Mich. 320 milk cows Holsteins, Jerseys and Brown Swiss Social: Amber Black, pictured, uses her personal Facebook page to promote her dairy’s news, show results, classification results and more!
1086 fat and 947 protein. Lundberg: We milk 100 cows on a TMR ration in a tiestall barn with a few box stalls. Sexton: The milking herd is housed on sand bedding. We milk two times per day and our cows are on a TMR consisting of corn silage, haylage, baleage, high moisture corn and a custom protein mix. Currently I am milking 55 cows (40 Holsteins, 15 Jerseys) with a herd average of 25,335 RHA, 1110 fat, 834 protein. The Holsteins are at 27,672 RHA, 1165 fat and 888 protein. What is your breeding goal and what sires do you use to help achieve that? Genosource: Tim Rauen and Kyle Demmer are responsible for most of the genetic decisions. Focusing on building strong sire stacks with good functional cows while also while trying to maintain some outcross genetics is Genosource’s main goal. We are probably a bit more NM$ driven than most herds, we try to use young sires who are over +850 NM$. We strive to build on multiple bloodlines to create genetics that will appeal to multiple facets of the global market. We want to develop cows that will thrive in a freestall environment that are medium in size, that have good production and have calving ease. Some sires that have produced some really nice young cows that we currently really like are Dynamo, Dynasty, Noble and Nightcap from STgenetics. One young genomic sire that we are especially excited about is Genosource Captain, he’s an outcross sire that goes back to one of our cornerstone brood cows, Peak Menna Ahead 850 EX-90. He’s a Charl son that’s +3059 GTPI, +912 NM$, +1481 Milk, 6.6% SCE and +2.3 FI.
Black: Our breeding goal is quite simple: I breed the type of cows that make me want to get up every morning and milk. We focus on functional type. Cows with sound feet and legs, wide rumps, welded on udders and tremendous capacity. On the Holstein side of things, Doorman, Diamondback, Sidekick, Unix, Jacoby and 1st Grade are sires that are making the kind we like. On the Jersey side Valentino, Joel, Joyride, VIP and Colton have done the right things.
Plain-Knoll: Our breeding goals, outside of what we are doing with bull and embryo sales, are to develop a solid, consistent herd of profitable, productive, trouble free, long lasting cows. This allows us to sell 300-350 extra cows for dairy purposes each year. That, of course, has been more challenging with the recent downturn of the dairy economy. I look primarily at GTPI and Net Merit and believe using the best genetics available is a good investment. I am breeding against too big of cows, but still appreciate good strength and width with enough angularity to balance them out. I don’t want to over correct on those traits. Also, we always need great mobility traits and strong udder attachments. Lundberg: We breed for high type using mainly the newest high type sires. Sexton: My herd goal includes high components with a balance of health traits. I look at high GTPI animals. I do also try using a couple polled bulls and Red and Whites in the mix. Currently I am using AltaRobert, Fandom-P, Zasberilla, Swingman-Red, Apprentice-RC, Einstein, Austad. In the past I have used Helix, AltaRobson, Dateline, Delson-P, Bighit-P, Limelight-P, Alta Cabot, Tahiti, AltaCasual P, Epic, Salvatore and Bombero. What kinds of marketing tools do you currently use to promote and sell genetics? Genosource: We use multiple marketing tools, our most frequently updated marketing tool is our Facebook page. What we use changes with what we have available as well as what events we may have coming up. We still use traditional forms of advertising but the bulk of our time is spent on our social platforms, website and email list. When we have a sale, like our International Opportunity Sale, we use printed ads, postcards, our website, email marketing and a lot of social ads. With sales, our tactics change and are more targeted. Black: Currently we use print ads and social media the most to MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020 - 9
PLAIN-KNOLL HOLSTEINS/ BUSCHUR DAIRY FARMS, INC New Weston, Ohio 690 milk cows Website: www.plainknollholsteins.com Social: @BuschurDairyFarms From left: Steve Buschur, Mackenzie Bertke, Jake Buschur, Jim Buschur and Pat Buschur.
market animals, but we also use shows to market animals as well. Word of mouth has also been great for us especially on the commercial side of things. We always try to market our best animals.
sell bulls to AI companies. We have sold donors and embryos at auction before, but prefer to sell directly.
Plain-Knoll: We have a farm Facebook page as well as a website. We run print and digital advertisements regularly in Ohio Holstein News as well as Holstein International. Another tool we utilize is the breeder listings on Holstein Plaza.
Lundberg: Our main goal at this point is to create brand awareness for Bert-Mar and get on people’s radar. We try to keep our social posts entertaining and informative so our followers are happy to see our new content and keep us top of mind when it comes to making a purchase.
Lundberg: We run a few print and digital ads but our main marketing tool is social media; mainly the Bert-Mar Facebook page and my personal page.
Sexton: My main marketing goal is creating awareness of both my genetics and education for those who are not directly involved in agriculture.
Sexton: My main source of marketing is Facebook. I try to do weekly posts to promote interaction on a farm page. I also try to share it to more pages to increase activity. In addition to Facebook I try to do print ads in magazines occasionally. I mainly use the print ads when promoting animals consigned to sales or in times when I think most people will get the magazine, such as during World Dairy Expo.
How has social media changed how you market animals?
What are your marketing goals?
Genosource: We mainly use Facebook and Instagram, through these social avenues we have been able to expand our brand to reach a whole new international market. We are able to update and showcase our genetics at a faster pace and bring interest to our offerings quicker by utilizing our social media platforms. All of our platforms are linked to our website which also has a substantial amount of information on our cow families and offerings and through our website we have been able to connect with new clients and even find some reliable employees as well.
Genosource: We have multiple marketing goals and these change as we evolve. We work towards creating a strong brand that can be associated with valuable genetics. We believe our genetic program can propel other dairy operations into a more profitable program as well. We strive to bring modern genetics to the marketplace to assist other dairymen in making substantial genetic growth. On average, each year, we produce 4,500 embryos. With our intensive embryo program we have created a market for embryo sales as well as youngstock and group sales. Our focus on our genetics make these options valuable to a global market. We are able to market these options through our website and our industry network.
Plain-Knoll: We have seen positive results from our farm’s Facebook page, but this is an area of potential growth that we could better utilize. The bigger benefit we’ve seen is public education rather than marketing, which is definitely still worthwhile!
Black: Our goal is always to sell quality animals because in the end, it’s our prefix and our name attached to those animals regardless of whether it’s a load of commercial fresh heifers or a really good show prospect.
Lundberg: Facebook has opened up a new world for us and how we market animals. With nearly half the world’s population using social media, it has been a natural place to reach new and highly targeted potential customers.
Plain-Knoll: Our main goal is to market embryos worldwide and
Sexton: I use only Facebook for social media to market animals and
10 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020
Black: Social media is a tremendous asset as you can reach so many people at once. A simple post and your genetics are viewed coast to coast. Social media hasn’t changed the type of animals we market but has gotten us a lot more exposure for minimal investment.
BERT-MAR FARMS Osseo, WI 100 milk cows Social: @BertMarFarms In addition to the Bert-Mar Facebook page, Erica Lundberg uses her personal Facebook page to promote their animals. From left: Graham Giese, Erica Lundberg and Allan Lundberg
promote my farm. Although Facebook has made it harder to do actual sales of animals, I still use my farm page to promote animals I have and animals I have consigned to sales. I do try to still do some individual sales on Facebook. The use of Facebook has made it easier to promote and market animals but it isn’t my only source of marketing.
Of all your marketing tactics, which one has been the most valuable? Genosource: A combination of our Facebook, linked to our website along with our email marketing which is utilized when we have embryos or group lots available has had the most return on investment when it comes to “social/online.” Of course we still use our industry network and daily communication via phone or email more regularly which is always a more personal and professional way to reach our partners and clients. Black: Our most valuable tactic has always been to sell quality and sell off the top end. Word of mouth still holds a lot of weight in this industry. If you always sell the good ones you never have to worry about being able to market the next one.
SHOENE KUH DAIRY Staci Sexton Millville, MN 55 milk cows Holsteins and Jerseys Social: @SchoeneKuhDairy In addition to genetics promotion, Staci uses her farm page to show the dairy industry in a positive light for consumers.
Plain-Knoll: Our most useful tool overall has been having a professionally designed website. We keep updated lists of current bulls at stud, available donors, cow families & breeder bulls for sale. It’s great to have an easy to use resource for anyone who would like to learn more about our breeding program. Lundberg: Facebook has been the most valuable tool when it comes to marketing our genetics. With followers from around the globe, we have been able to increase our visibility and make connections we never dreamed of. Sexton: I do feel that the use of Facebook is most valuable to my farm when it comes to marketing. Even when I do a print ad, I still try to share that ad and a link to the magazine/website to get those who don’t get the printed magazines/newsletters still to see my advertising.
What advice do you have for farms looking to ramp up their marketing tactics either in traditional media or online? Genosource: Being consistent is the most impactful thing for us, once we made it a point to show up on our social platforms and website our online community really took off. We are still building this and try to share new information regularly to keep MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020 -11
our audience interested. Every farm has something to share and a different story and it’s important to share what you have, whether that be to other dairymen, or to consumers, showing that dairy farmers care and produce a wholesome product is really important to our industry today. Black: Don’t be afraid to post those classification highlights or a fresh heifer that you like on social media even if she isn’t perfect yet. It’s worth the investment to run an ad in breed magazine; more people than you realize are looking at them. Plain-Knoll: Start with something with no or low financial investment like Facebook. There is definitely a risk for push-back from animal activists/people who are uneducated about agriculture, but it’s a great way to get your name out there and build interest in
your herd. Lundberg: A picture can say 1000 words. It’s all about grabbing people’s attention and getting them to stop scrolling or turning the page. Sexton: I believe the most important things when wanting to ramp up advertising is to be consistent and to post often. With all types of marketing not everyone will look at every page and every ad so it is important to try to advertise as often as possible. With social media it is just as important to post weekly or even daily. If you have a sale or something important you want people to see, more posts will increase chances of others seeing it. Posts on social media that include interaction or ask for suggestions I find have the most activity and get the most views.
If this combined roundtable is something you enjoyed and would like to see happen more in Midwest Holsteins, please email your state’s editor or reach out to Mara at the Wisconsin Holstein Association: marab@wisholsteins.com. We’d also like to hear your ideas for future topics to cover. We hope this roundtable was interesting and that you learned something to take back to your social media or print media advertising programs.
June/July 2020
Headlines from Sugar Creek Dairy
Two new Sugar Creek Bulls to stud
Classified February 6 Scored 250 head. Highlights include our first 94-point cow, 6 new Excellent cows, 50 new VG cows, 4 cows with multiple “E” and 160 head scored for the first time
Rick elected fo WHA Board of Directors Sugar-C Just in Time-ET *RC *PP, a Simplicity from Zipit Jojane who has more than 34,000 pounds of milk. At International Protein Sires. #1 Genomic Milk *PP #5Genomic GTPI *RC *PP
Sugar-C Aristo Andrew-Red, an early Aristocrat son from an EX-90 Olympian, then an EX-92 Destry then Apple herself. At Top Notch Genetics. PTAT +2.49 UDC +2.42 Pictured is second dam, Ms Apples Aria EX-92.
Rick Adams was elected to the WHA Board of Directors on February 22 at the 2020 WHA Adult Convention. Thank you for the support and I’m looking forward to my time on the board.
Don’t forget to buy a Treasure Quest ticket to support WHA and win a great calf!
Rick and Marleen Adams N5633 Hwy O, Elkhorn, WI 53121 | Phone: 262-728-0702 Cell: 262-374-0793 | Email: marleenkayadams@gmail.com RHA: 640 cows, 31,800 4.2 1338 3.3 1050 BAA: 106.9 2017 Herd of Excellence | 2x PBR and 9x PGH awards 12 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020
As this pandemic has turned the world upside down, dairy farms continue business as usual.
Design Kristy Roose
Projects around the farm are keeping everyone busy as we look forward to getting back into the show ring.
Cloverfield Edwin
Mabel
EX-94
We are excited about the next generation as her December 2019 Comerica calf is looking great and we hope she ages as gracefully as her mom.
Mabel as a Sr. 3-year-old
Mabel as a 5-year-old
Lea McCullough photo
Mabel Completes 11 Generations of Excellents, 6 Nearest Dams Average 92 pts.
Mabel as an Aged Cow
Jenny Thomas photo
Dam Ratliff Sambo Merry EX 90 2nd Dam Ratliff Jade Maley EX 90 3rd Dam Pleasant Nook Rene Myriah EX 95 4th Dam Pleasant Nook Judes Marcie EX 94 5th Dam Pleasant Nook J IMP Martha EX 94 6th Dam Pleasant Nook Royal Marlene EX
Cybil Fisher photo
Hills Valley Durham
Winter
Nominated All-American Sr. 2 Yr. Old 2019
Lea Jordan photo
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• Black Avalanche spring yearling • Red Jordy fall calf • Red Warrior winter calf
Her daughters: L-L-M-Dairy Butler Dusty-ET EX-91 andL-L-M-Dairy Butler Deri-ET EX-90 ~ Deeaz has promisting granddaughters & great-granddaughters
Please call if interested in purchasing one of these great show heifers. We also have Crown’s Avalanche fall calf entered in the WHA Treasure Quest.
Wayne, Samantha & Justin Giese
F1761 Huckleberry Rd., Edgar, WI 54426 715-352-2972 home; 715-965-7147 cell samwaydairy@yahoo.com 20 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020
101 cows 300d 26,735 3.7 998 3.0 827 • 17 Excellent cows Leon & Lyle Matthiae 231056 Hwy. Q, Ringle, WI 54471 715-297-8485 Leon 715-297-8483 Lyle www.llmdairy.com Visitors always welcome
Marathon group ads - June20_group ads 5/18/20 11:14 AM Page 2
MARATHON COUNTY HOLSTEIN BREEDERS
Tribute to a Great Cow Nor-Way-Pete Blitz Emmy 5E-91 EEEEE 3/16/05 - 5/5/20 ~ 406,664M 3.9 15,963F 2.9 11,068P lifetime ~ had a Tatoo heifer in March at 15 years old
Highlights from our 3-2-20 Classification 2 new Excellents, including
Four-of-a-Kind GChip Giselle EX at 8-00 4-06 349 43,749 4.0 1776 2.7 1201 ~ 6th generation EX ~ Over 204,000 lifetime to date & still milking 112 lbs./day ~ Due in November to Denver ~ National Elite Performer
NOR-WAY-PETE FARMS, INC. 1751 Cherry Drive, Eland, WI 54427 RHA: 2x 26,128 3.82 998 3.02 789 Chad & Andy Peterson, owners 715-302-0482 Visitors Always Welcome!
Marathon County Holstein Association Cooperative Raffle Tickets Available! Prizes 1st place: Registered Holstein Calf (Sept./Dec) or $1000 cash 2nd place: Cattle Clippers or $500 cash 3rd place: Mixed 1/4 of beef 4th place: Packer tickets or $250 cash 5th place: $250 Fleet Farm gift card 6th place: Mixed 1/4 of beef 7th place: $250 NASCO gift card 8th place: 1 pie a month for a year 9th place: Pedal Tractor 10th place: $100 Texas Roadhouse gift card 11th-14th places: $100 cash Drawing held August 22, 2020 at the Athens Fair (after Little Britches Dairy Show) $20 per ticket or 6 for $100 ~ Need not be present to win
HAZEL: One of our favorite Red & Whites! Owned by: Thomas & Florine Bunkelman Brooke, Brent & Brodie
This year has been a struggle for all of us farmers and to all in general so instead of talking about cows and such, we’re sharing some laughter with everyone... SAD NEWS Please join me in remembering YET ANOTHER great icon of the entertainment community. The Pillsbury Dough Boy died yesterday of a yeast infection and traumatic complications from repeated pokes in the belly. He was 71. Dough Boy is survived by his wife, Play Dough, three children, John Dough, Jane Dough, and Dill Dough, plus they had one in the oven. Services were held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes. 227080 Pinenut Road, Edgar, WI 54426 Ph.: 715-581-6460 E-mail: tomkinsfarm@yahoo.com
Sky-Reach Mad Max Hazel-Red VG-86 at 2Y Sire: FG Destry Mad Max Dam: Sky-Reach Reality Hawaii VG-86 2nd Dam: Sky-Reach Absolute Honolulu VG-85 3rd Dam: Bosside Miami Hailey VG-88 ~ Hazel is bred to Luck-E Aristocrat-Red
HOLSTEINS
Hank, Shannon, Gabe, Jonah & Lily Boschma Athens, WI 715-205-7303 MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020 - 21
Marathon group ads - June20_group ads 5/18/20 11:15 AM Page 1
MARATHON COUNTY HOLSTEIN BREEDERS
Family-Affair Holsteins Family-Affair Helix June NC born 6/1/17
46 days - milking 140 lbs. with 4.0%F 31,621M 1263F 967P
Need a Website? Let us help!
Housed at New-Day Dairy W/D Strack, Athens, WI • 715-257-7376
Ded-Dit Holsteins A 10th generation Excellent
Morningview Domain Dana-ET EX-90 2E EX-MS - from the Roxy’s
103d 14,330 431F 399P; 186,082 7112F 5618P lifetime - has a nice Rubix daughter
Doug Dittmar
6006 - 3 Birch Street, Schofield, WI 54476 715-571-0843
Gary’s Dairy Good-Time registered Holsteins
Gary Stankowski Owner Home: 3860 Sugar Bush Rd. Mosinee, WI 54455 (715) 693-3197 Farm: 543 Hwy. S Mosinee, WI 54455 (715) 693-0799
Moo-dy Acres Congratulations Madison and Abigail on your hard work and success at the summer shows!
Mike, Barb, Madison & Abigail Borchardt
W4370 Wien Drive, Edgar, WI 54426 715-352-2448
Website for Selz-Pralle Dairy
The Wisconsin Holstein Association staff has the talent and knowledge to help you create a website to showcase your herd. • Professional Quality Web Design • Individual Farm Domain name • Initial set-up with 5 pages, up to 10 photos per page and monthly updates • Facebook promotion on Wisconsin Holstein page when breeder page is updated • Link on WHA website • Rates starting at $1000 for the first year with set-up and monthly updates Call or email for a quote on a 1 or 2 page website - we will work within your budget!
Call Milkyhill Cattle Sales for rates. Hope to see everyone at the Athens Fair (Aug. 20-23) & Edgar Steam Show (Aug. 28-30) for delicious cheese curds!
Contact ED mielke, 715-574-2931 22 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Summer 2020
Wisconsin Holstein Association
Mara Budde: 800-223-4269 ext 2 marab@wisholsteins.com Laura Wackershauser: 800-223-4269 ext. 1 lauraw@wisholsteins.com
NATIONAL HOLSTEIN CONVENTION - 63
Annie © Cybil FIscher, Ad Design© Rachel Coyne
Annie
Minnesota Holstein Cow of the Year Lida-Acres Atwood Annie EX-94
Jr. All-American Aged Cow, Nominated All-American Aged Cow 2019 1st Aged Cow, Best Udder, Reserve Sr & Reserve Grand Champion, Intl. Jr. Holstein Show 2019 3rd Aged Cow & Best Bred & Owned, Intl. Holstein Show 2019 Due back in June
Andrea
Amanda
Lida-Acres Wood Andrea EX-92, EX-93 MS Lida-Acres Atwood Amanda VG-88 1st Sr 2, Int. Champ, Res. Grand Champ., Midwest Fall National 2018 All-MN Sr 2, Res. Int. Champ., Minnesota State Show 2018 Fresh Sept. 2019
Reserve Jr. A.A. Sr. 2 2019 2nd Sr. 2 Intl. Jr. Holstein Show 2nd Sr. 2 MidWest Fall National All-MN Sr. 2 2019 Fresh April 2020
Scarlet t
Lida-Acres Wood Scarlett EX-92 All-MN 5 Yr-Old 2019 2nd 4 Yr-Old, Res. Sr. Champ, H.M. Grand Champ., Midwest Fall National 2018 Fresh February 2020
Lida Acres Holsteins 43439 233rd Avenue Pelican Rapids, MN 24-MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Spring 2020 (218) 329-9244 | lidaacres@gmail.com
Minnesota’s Directory of Services
Products and Answers that WORK® Phone: (605) 467-0812 centralvalleydairy@yahoo.com www.dairyandfarmsupply.com
• Ashley Swenson, DVM • David Duxbury, DVM
Mankato: (800) 247-0730 | Alexandria: (800) 892-8570 Worthington: (800) 533-5240 www.hubbardfeeds.com
“Providing Wisconsin and Minnesota with complete Embryo Transfer Services.”
Email: nancy@midwestembryotransfer.com In WI: 715-268-9900 • In MN: 952-737-9028 Cell: 715-377-2900 • Fax: 715-294-4994 493 Simmon Drive, Suite 4, Osceola, WI 54020
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Holstein NEWS
MINNESOTA
Supper Club Socials prove to be a big hit The Wisconsin Holstein Association (WHA) hosted two Supper Club Socials for members on February 27. Lunch was held at Cantafio’s Buckhorn Steakhouse in Beaver Dam where members enjoyed their delicious prime rib sandwich and haddock options. A homestyle dinner of chicken and beef tips was served at the Rib River Ballroom in Marathon. The food, however, was just the icing on the cake for the real entertainment. WHA was lucky enough to have Norm Nabholz and John Erbsen share their stories and guidance with our Holstein enthusiasts. Norm spoke about his success in buying and selling Holstein cows such as KWH Regiment Apple-Red, C Taralay Astro Sherry, Quality Ridge Stormi Hazel, Cache-Valley Lheros 2331 “Dezi” and more. He has owned or sold sixteen World Dairy Expo Grand Champions: including three Supreme Champions. He shared his historical account of shows and show herds from the past compared to today with a hefty side of humor. Norm grew up on a Registered Jersey dairy in Iowa and worked for prominent dairy herds such as Pinehurst and on many cattle sales teams where you could find Norm John Erbsen and Norm Nabholz reading pedigrees. Many attendees commented on that and how they really enjoyed his personal story and history. John gave an inspiring presentation about his journey with KHW Regiment Apple-Red-ET and her continued legacy that is still prevalent today through her progeny. John has received Premier Breeder as well as various championship titles. He was also the breeder of Erbacres Damion EX-96, a former number one type sire for the breed and producer favorite. His Apple story is still continuing today as he and his partners are responsible for promoting and marketing her progeny. Attendees enjoyed hearing first hand about the impact Apple had on the breed and her owners. There was a nice turn out for both meetings, of both WHA members and friends who enjoyed being able to mingle with their fellow enthusiasts and learn from such knowledgeable men. One attendee, Niles Wendorf, attended the Beaver Dam social and said, “WHA should continue to put this event on every year. It was one of the best events I have been to and I am already looking forward to next year.” Be sure to check out winter editions of the Wisconsin Holstein News and the Wisconsin Holstein website for information on next year’s event. We hope to see you then!
June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 11
Wisconsin Holstein Treasure Quest 2020 Calf Entries
Bee-Bow Tatoo Heidi
1
Born 9-18-2019
Reg. #840003213163714
Sire: Duckett Crush Tatoo-ET Dam: Ms Bee-Bow Doormn Hollie-ET 2nd Dam: Hazels Gldwn Halle-ET EX-90 5-02 2x 365 34,030 4.7 1596 3.6 1221 3rd Dam: Quality-Ridge Stormi Hazel EX-96 2E Unanimous All-American Junior 3-Year-Old 2006 All-American 5-Year-Old 2008 Reserve All-American 125,000 lb. Cow 2011 HM All-American 2005 & 2007
2
Nom. All-American R&W 5-Year-Old 2018 Res. Grand Champ., MW Spring R&W Show 2018 5th 5-Year-Old, International R&W Show 2018 1st 5Y & Res. Sr. Champ., MW Fall Natl. R&W 2018 Nom. All-American R&W Sr. 2-Year-Old 2015
Next Dams: VG-88, VG-87 GMD, VG-85 GMD, EX-90 GMD, 3E-91 GMD DOM, VG-88
Quality-Ridge Stormi Hazel EX-96 2E
Owner: Nicholas, Ivan & Mary Schuster, Fond du Lac
3
Heritage-E Lucky Debbie-ET Born 3-2-2019
Reg. #840003144027954
Heatherstone Rhiannon-ET
Born 12-14-2019 Reg. #840003209275342 Sire: Dymentholm Mr App Avalanche-ET Dam: Heatherstone Rhinestone-Red EX-94 2E 4-07 2x 365 38,140 3.2 1222 3.3 1274
Heatherstone Rhinestone-Red EX-94 2E
Owner: Heatherstone Enterprises Inc., Baraboo
4
Kamps-Rx Aplb Amalia-Red-ET Born 9-10-2019
Reg. #840003147705334
Sire: Dymentholm Mr App Avalanche-TW Dam: KY-Blue GW Debbie-ET EX-94 3E 9-08 2x 305 41,260 4.8 1995 3.1 1275 Lifetime: 170,280 4.2 7089 3.2 5380 2nd Dam: BVK Outside Diana-ET EX-92 2E DOM 5-01 2x 365 31,920 3.5 1129 3.1 974 3rd Dam: Ms Kingstead Chief Adeen-ET EX-94 2E DOM 4th Dam: C Aitkenbrae Starbuck Ada EX-94 2E DOM
Sire: Cycle McGucci Jordy-Red Dam: KHW Regment Apple B-Red-ETN EX-90 3-09 2x 341 31,990 5.1 1621 3.9 1253 2nd Dam: Kamps-Hollow Altitude-ET EX-95 2E DOM 7-00 2x 365 39,690 4.7 1849 3.3 1310 3rd Dam: Clover-Mist Alisha 3E-93 GMD DOM 4th Dam: Clover-Mist Augy Star 4E-94 DOM 5th Dam: D-R-A August 4E-96 DOM
KY-Blue GW Debbie-ET EX-94 3E
KHW Regment Apple B-Red-ETN EX-90
Owner: N & J Sarbacker & M & L Evangelo, Whitewater
12 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
Owner: Reggie & Krysty Kamps, Darlington
Wisconsin Holstein Treasure Quest 2020 Calf Entries
5
Samway Crown Achievement-ET
Born 9-6-2019
Reg. #840003130053493
Sire: Dymentholm Mr App Avalanche-TW Dam: Rosedale Crown of Thorns-ET EX-91 2E 5-05 2x 365 32,410 4.0 1293 3.3 1070 2nd Dam: Lavender Ruby Redrose-Red EX-96 4E Wisconsin Cow of the Year 2011 Grand Champion, WDE 2005 & 2007 Holstein International R&W World Champion 2006 & 2007
Next Dams: EX-90, 2E-93 GMD, 3E-96 GMD DOM, EX-93 DOM
6
Tombeth Doc Tipsy-Red-ET
Born 6-27-2019
Reg. #840003211638368
Sire: Woodcrest King Doc Dam: Jas-K CapGain Tisha-Red-ET EX-91 2-01 2x 316 19,910 4.2 835 3.3 660 All-WI R&W Junior 3-Year-Old 2018
2nd Dam: Vande Shot Tiffany-Red-ET VG-88 4-03 2x 267 21,830 4.7 1024 3.1 678 3rd Dam: Vande Mutant Logan-Red VG-88
Junior All-American R&W Winter Yearling 2007
Next Dams: VG-87 & VG-88
Rosedale Crown of Thorns-ET EX-91 2E
Jas-K CapGain Tisha-Red-ET EX-91
Owner: Wayne & Samantha Giese, Edgar
Owner: Jason Kearns, Gays Mills
These calves have been entered in the 2020 WHA Treasure Quest, sponsored by the Wisconsin Holstein Association. Tickets can be purchased for $100 each - the owner of the winning ticket gets to select one of these calves to take home and that breeder wins $5000! There will also be 11 runners-up who will win a prize basket worth $100. For more information or to purchase a ticket, contact a WHA Board member or the office at 1-800-223-4269.
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buy or sell www.holsteinusa.com/marketplace Holstein Association USA • www.holsteinusa.com • 800.952.5200
June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 13
Wisconsin Holstein Youth WI Holstein National DJM and YDJM Spotlight
Below are the candidates that submitted materials for Holstein USA’s National youth contests in 2020, along with an excerpt from their response to one personal view question they were asked on the application. Congrats to the DJMs named as National Semi-Finalists. At print time, Holstein USA had not announced any National YDJM winners. Ashley Brandel - National YDJM Representative Ashley, 13, is the daughter of Matthew and Tracy Brandel of Lake Mills. Ashley will be a freshman this fall at Lake Mills High School and is active in Junior Holstein, Wisconsin Milking Shorthorn Association and South Side Eagles 4-H Club. A local school would like to bring the 3rd grade class to your dairy farm. Describe the tour and important points you would emphasize. “My farm tour would include experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of a real, working dairy farm. Our first stop is a meet and greet with the calves, explaining the importance of newborn calf care, and the measures I take to keep our calves healthy. The tour would travel to our feed storage area, otherwise known as the cow kitchen, explaining the different feed sources that we use to maintain a balanced diet for the diary cows and heifers. The last stop of our tour would be the milking parlor to observe the cows milking. This is one of my favorite places on the farm, showing how we produce a safe, nutritional product. Standing in the milking parlor is the perfect opportunity to discuss alternative beverages I would utilize The National Dairy Council and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin materials highlighting the details of the calories and nutrients, vitamin and mineral profile, and price of cow’s milk versus alternative beverages. Finally, after a visit to the hand washing station, I would share a dairy treat of Wisconsin cheese and a pint of milk.” Colton Brandel - National YDJM Representative Colton is the 15-year-old son of Matthew & Tracy Brandel, Lake Mills. Colton will be a sophomore at Lake Mills High School and is a member of Junior Holstein, Wisconsin Milking Shorthorn Association and South Side Eagles 4-H Club. What is the most important job you perform on your dairy and why? “The most important job on our family dairy farm that is performed daily is following safety measures. Every Registered Holstein farm is unique but share a common hazard associated with cattle handling, manure storage, and equipment. The way I have created a culture of safety on our dairy is by setting good examples each day when I am working. I am cautious when handling cows, particularly when moving cattle, feeding and milking cows, cleaning stalls and alleys, and using special caution around new mothers in the maternity area. I assist with daily maintenance checks on equipment that we are using and ensure gates are secured after manure removal from our storage pit. Overall, safety is a priority to avoid and manage risk and improve the efficiency of the farm.” Ava Endres - National YDJM Representative Ava is the 15-year-old daughter of Randy and Karen Endres of Waunakee. She will be a sophomore at Waunakee High School and is involved in Track & Field, student council, 4-H and dance. 14 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
Describe your farm’s biosecurity plan. “The four main areas of our farm’s plan include keeping a closed herd protocol for purchasing animals, cleanliness, testing for infection, and controlling farm traffic. A biosecurity plan is important for our farm and all dairy operations to protect our animals’ well-being and our farm’s profitability. At Endres Berryridge Farms LLC we try to keep a closed herd as much as possible, meaning keeping breeding inside the farm. This is one of the best ways to prevent infectious diseases and keep our herd healthy. Because we raise all of our replacements for our farm, the most important part of this plan is keeping our show heifers at a separate location. When we are done with shows, we keep them isolated or quarantined for 30 days before they can come back into the general herd population. We have protocols in place for immunizing our animals and monitoring herd health to prevent infectious disease and to act quickly if one does enter our herd. Monitoring farm traffic is one of the most difficult parts of our plan to oversee because we have multiple locations. We educate our employees, suppliers, and others that may be visiting our farm on teh need to prevent the spread of infectious disease from other farms they may visit.” Jacob Harbaugh - National YDJM Representative Jacob is the 14-year-old son of Lynn and Sara Harbaugh, Marion. He will be a sophomore at Clintonville High School and enjoys dairy bowl, dairy judging, and is an active member of Junior Holsteins and Clintonville FFA. You have been asked to help select animals for your state convention sale. How can you effectively contribute as a youth member? “I have had the opportunity to be involved in many different types of sales, and I would use these experiences to successfully contribute to a state convention sale. When selecting for a state sale, you should try to secure consignments from high profile breeders from different sectors of the industry. To find consignments that meet the criteria, I would use my past experiences to search for animals from other youth members who may not have had the opportunity to consign or market in the past. I would be willing to consign my best animals to help encourage others to do so as well. I could do this using social media to promote the sale and search for consignments. This could help create excitement and enthusiasm and attract new people to our industry. As a youth member, after the selections are made, I would be able to help with the promotion of the sale by continuing to use social media platforms to reach many different potential buyers. In addition, if there are new youth consignors, I would help them properly prepare their sale animals so they are presented well on sale day.” Mason Jauquet - National DJM Semi-Finalist Mason is the 20-year-old son of Jay and Heather Jauquet of Pulaski. He attended UW-Green Bay this year while also working on the family’s farm, Synergy Dairy LLC. He enjoys participating in dairy quiz bowl, dairy jeopardy and the speaking contest and served on the Junior Activities Committee.
Wisconsin Holstein Youth If you are milking 1,000 Registered Holsteins, describe your breeding strategy. Please include what type of budget you would need to be able to execute this program. “Implementing a breeding strategy for a 1,000-cow herd is an interesting and exciting challenge that could become very relevant for me in the future. Increased genetic merit is the most valuable tool available to dairy producers when establishing a breeding program. My breeding plan would include super ovulating the top 2% of my herd to high genetic merit bulls fitting my breeding criteria. On a 1,000-cow herd with a 30% cull rate, only 25 replacement animals are needed each month. The national average flush creates just under 5 embryos per flush and with a conception rate of 50%, I would only need to flush my 12 highest genomic females to sexed semen to create enough replacements. Realistically, creating 1 embryo in this form of operation should cost no more than $100 and should even be lower. Furthermore it costs $75 to get an egg implanted which would mean creating and implanting one embryo costs $175. I would therefore be creating all of my replacement females from my most genetically elite individuals for $350 per pregnancy because it takes two embryos to create one calf. Additionally, all animals not carrying an embryo would be bred to beef. The current market indicates that beef cross calves are worth $100 more than their Holstein counterparts. This breeding program utilizes available tools to accelerate genetic progress to rapidly improve my herd, make my cows more efficient and keep my herds genetics relevant for the future. ” Rachel McCullough - National DJM SemiFinalist Rachel is the 20-year-old daughter of Chris and Kathie McCullough of Juda. She is a graduate of the UW-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course and currently works on the family’s 55-cow Registered Holstein farm, Rock-N-Hill-II Holsteins. How do you keep current on dairy industry related topics and what do you read? “I keep up to date with the current dairy events every day. Every morning after chores my dad and I watch the Market Day Report. This allows us to see what the market prices are for dairy, beef and crops as well as other ag news for the day. We receive a lot of dairy and ag related magazines and newspapers in the mail as well. Publications such as our state and regional agriculture newspapers, Wisconsin State Farmer and Dairy Star, discuss state, national and international agriculture topics and trends from trade deals like USMCA and those with China to the severe decline in family dairy farms in Wisconsin. I also look at different dairy related websites to stay in touch with what is going on directly with the Holstein industry. Websites such as Dairy Agenda Today and Cowsmopolitan off the latest in Holstein show results, classifications and promising Holstein herds. These sites keep us in tune with the popular type bulls and cow families that are proving themselves as worthy to use and invest in.” Hannah Nelson - National DJM Semi-Finalist Hannah is the 20-year-old daughter of Tracy Mitchell and Marc Nelson, Ellsworth. She just completed her junior year at UW-River Falls where she is majoring in agricultural business with a minor in dairy science. If you are milking 1,000 Registered Holsteins, describe your breeding strategy. Please include what type of budget you would need to be able to execute this program.
“Milking 1,000 Registered Holsteins would definitely be a different extreme from what I am currently used to. I would look into many different aspects for my breeding strategy. I would want cows that fit best in my herd, so high milk production, sound feet and legs, medium teat size, and medium frame size. I would choose bulls displaying these qualities on their linear evaluations. Ultimately, I would genomic test each cow to see where they need improvement. I would hire someone to use my requirements from the above criteria to mate the cows. Additionally, I feel it is essential to use sexed semen on the heifers and top cows in the herd but will utilize beef semen on the lower-end cows in the herd. In a large herd it is beneficial to use an Ovsynch program. This will help keep the herd more uniform and easier to identify heats with cows cycling in groups. It will be easier on labor having scheduled times and dates with a specific group of cows. In addition, selected cows in the herd, based on their genomic test information and conformation, will be put on an IVF and flush program in order to utilize them to their full potential. Offspring could be marketed nationally and internationally to incur costs. I would use a yearly operating budget to execute this breeding program. Operating budgets take into account factors such as supplies expenses, labor cost, sales and production, which would all be included in this breeding program. These factors help make for a more accurate picture of what we are able to spend. We can compare month to month to see if the farm is above or under spending on supplies and reevaluate or adjust when needed.” Colin Uecker - National DJM Semi-Finalist Colin is the 19-year-old son of Michele and Bill Uecker of Watertown. He will be a junior this fall at UW-Madison, majoring in dairy science with a business managment certificate. Colin solely owns and operates Stormy-Ridge Holsteins, which currently consists of a small group of registered show heifers. How do you keep current on dairy industry related topics and what do you read? “With the dairy industry being a very rapidly changing industry, I find it is important to pull information and read articles from several different sources to ensure the accuracy of each article. I thoroughly enjoy reading articles on the Hoard’s Dairyman website, along with their magazine. Oftentimes, I find these articles to be very delicately written but also very factual about what is currently going on within the dairy industry as a whole. I also enjoy reading articles on the Cowsmopolitan website, as its new daily articles are always filled with current data. I believe that both of these publications and media portray a very unbiased and accurate depiction of both the struggles and the successes that occur within the dairy industry on a daily basis. Additionally, both of these media platforms focus specifically on the dairy industry and related topics that fit within the dairy industry accordingly. However, I believe it is also important to follow industry news on the national and international level, as well. This is important, as legislation plays a big role in economic impacts on farmer enterprises and commodity prices. The trade deals that are negotiated and implemented dramatically affect a farmer’s economic success. Therefore, I believe along with those articles focused specifically on the dairy industry that it is also important to include national legislative news which will affect the agricultural industry as well.” June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 15
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16 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
R
Hannah’s
HOT TAKE
It’s June already? Well you know what they say, time flies when you’re quarantined at home with those that you love the most. That being said, while I missed getting to be glitzed and glammed up as a Princess, I have not regretted the extra time I got to have at my family’s farm being “farm Hannah.” It is an exciting time as we begin District shows. June is sure to be an action-packed month for Roslind and myself as we head to District shows and, (hopefully) National Dairy Month events! Enjoy June Dairy Month to the fullest that you can! Eat all the ice cream, have that second glass of milk, or eat an extralarge cheese pizza. My favorite way to celebrate is spending extra time with the hardworking ladies in the barn. Don’t wait for them CALL! If you’re asking yourself, “What can I to do toFall, promote the dairy industry this month?” are a couple ideas. all states Barn FloorHere Grooving • of Serving • Post a picture of you eating ice cream with your show heifer. • Allaclasses of livestock facilities • Attend Dairy Breakfast, and hopefully I’ll see you there! • 4 some grooving options to out fit to the farm so they can meet a • Have of your friends your needs cow. • Go• Milk to a parlors cheese festival or museum. There are so many in Wisconsin and thepens surrounding states. • Holding
Why advertise in the News News?? Advertising gets your herd and genetics exposure to: • Nearly 2,000 subscribers • An additional 2,000 subscribers with Midwest Holsteins issues • Issues receive online readership of 1,840 reads
B USINESS C ARDS B REEDER B USINESS C ARDS
ALL!
states
chmocker Conroy
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I don’t want to look too far into the future, as it seems we never can these days, but I am looking forward to the promise of State Show and Wisconsin Junior State Fair. This will be my first State Fair in eight years that I have not been an exhibitor. I’m eager to sit center stage and watch all of my friends and fellow juniors show off all their hard work! If you are planning a promotional event, Roslind and myself would love to attend! Feel free to fill out a request form to get us at your event. Until the next take, Hannah Ullom
• Feed Lots • Freestalls • Alleys
ALL ads will be showcased on the WHA Facebook page with more than 12,000 followers. Don’t have an ad designer or ability to create a print-ready verision? We have you covered. Design services by the WHA staff are included in the ad price. For deadlines, rates and other information, contact Mara at marab@wisholsteins. com or visit www.wisholsteins.com.
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Breeder Business Cards 920.723.1557 Dave Schmocker 260.402.4494 Pat Conroy Dairy people helping dairymen.
Rickert Bros. LLC Home of Rickland Holsteins
Rickert ickert Bros. Bros. LLC LLC R Homeof ofRickland RicklandHolsteins Holsteins Home
Jim & Kelly, Greg & Laura, Andrew & Shannon, Doug, Linda, Clint, Corey & Tammy Hodorff Don & Lila Rickert
Jim & Jim & Kelly, Kelly, Greg Greg&&Laura, Laura, Andrew & Shannon, Andrew & Shannon
Tel: (920) 477-6800 • Fax: (920) 477-2520 rickertkel@gmail.com • 920-960-9640 E-mail: mail@secondlookholsteins.com RHA: 1037 cows 31,221 3.9 1220 3.0 943 Stop in anytime forGenetics a secondHerd look! 24 Year Progressive
Eldorado, WI 54932 rickertkel@gmail.com • 920-960-9640 rickertkel@gmail.com • 920-960-9640
N3832 Hwy. W, WI Eden, WI 53019 Eldorado, 54932
Don & Lila Rickert
Eldorado, WI 54932
RHA: 1076cows cows31,221 26,6443.9 3.7 9813.0 3.0943 805 RHA: 1037 1220 25 GeneticsHerd Herd 24 Year Year Progressive Progressive Genetics
B REEDER B USINESS C ARDS
Don’t wait for them to Fall, CALL! Expanding Hoof-Trimming Business!
BULL SHIPPER
Expanding Hoof-Trimming Business!
Craig Krohlow
• 15+ years of experience, references available • 3 full-time hoof trimmers • Appleton steel Upright Comfort Chute • Large & small herds • Your satisfaction is our guarantee! • Serving a 200 mile radius of Madison, Wis.
Barn Floor Grooving • Serving all call states Please
Semex Semen Sales
• All classes of livestock facilities Dave Schmocker, 920-723-1557 • 4 grooving options to fit your needs • 15+ years of experience, references available • Milk parlors • 3 full-time hoof trimmers • Holding pens • Appleton steel Upright Comfort Chute • Feed Lots • Large & small herds 920.723.1557 Dave Schmocker • Freestalls Shady Rd., Pat Conroy • YourW4203 satisfaction is our guarantee! 260.402.4494 • Alleys • Serving a 200 Creek, mile radius of Madison, Wis. Black WI 54106 Dairy people helping dairymen.
920-639-5388
Please call Dave Schmocker, 920-723-1557
June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 17
Farmstead Greek Yogurt Equipment needed: Instant Pot (IP) with yogurt option, food thermometer, cheese cloth, large rubber band, colander and a pot the colander can sit on top of Ingredients • ½ gallon of whole milk - you can either use milk from the store or milk from one of your cows. If you choose to use milk from your cows, please consider the following: - Use milk from one cow, make sure she tests at least 3.5 to 4 percent on fat and low on SCC *milk from the bulk tank is fine too! I just prefer to try different milk for my yogurt and prefer a certain fat level. This depends what your fat average and SCC is. - Once milk is collected, promptly transfer into your storage container of choice. - Place collected milk in a refrigerator immediately. • Yogurt starter (follow package instructions on amount) - I use two 5 gram packets OR • 2 Tbsp of plain yogurt Instructions: 1. If using milk from one of your cows, shake your storage container or whisk milk to mix up fat 2. Pour the ½ gallon of milk into the Instant Pot 3. Select the “Yogurt” button and choose “boil” *This is critical if you are using raw milk, this will pasteurize the milk and denature proteins needed to create yogurt. Use pasteurized milk because raw milk can alter the final texture and consistency because it has a different microbial profile and can interfere with the culture. If you aren’t using raw milk, this option will help denature proteins needed to make the yogurt 4. Once the IP is done it’ll flash “yogt.” Cool the milk to 108 to 112 degrees. 5. Once at that temp, pull out 1 cup of milk and mix in yogurt or starter 6. Pour the mixture into the pasteurized milk and whisk 7. Press the “yogurt” button to get to the incubation setting and set for 4 to 5 hours. If using starter, check the package for timing. Cultures vary. If yogurt has not thickened after this timeframe, add more time. You may need to experiment with incubation times. 8. Once done, mix up with whisk and dump into a cheesecloth-lined colander (secure cloth with rubber band) resting on a bowl then rest in the fridge for anywhere from 5 to 24 hours. 9. Dump the caught whey (or keep it) then enjoy! Tips: I like to store my yogurt in glass jars. You can keep a half cup of yogurt for a week or two as a culture if you want to make more. Then you can keep reusing your homemade yogurt to start new batches. Please note that this will make a slightly sweet, plain yogurt. You’ll need to add a sweetener after incubation if you choose to. I like to add honey, a little vanilla extract and fruit. This way you can choose what flavors you want on a given day. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me! submitted by Mara Budde
Holstein Association USA Area Representatives Sarah Trapp 608-628-1978 strapp@holstein.com
Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Crawford, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Iron, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Price, Richland, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Vernon, Washburn
Chris Lyons 920-723-2406 clyons@holstein.com
Adams, Calumet, Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Fond du Lac, Grant, Green, Green Lake, Iowa, Jefferson, Juneau, Kenosha, Lafayette, Manitowoc, Marquette, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Rock, Sauk, Sheboygan, Walworth, Washington, Waukesha, Waushara, Winnebago
18 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
Mandi Kipp 920-530-5023 mkipp@holstein.com
Brown, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewanee, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Oneida, Outagamie, Portage, Shawano, Villas, Waupaca, Wood
Index to Advertisers Alpha Genetics..........................................16 Bullshipper...............................................10 Cattle Traxx................................................16 Cybil Fisher Photography.........................16 Go-Sho Cattle Co.......................................17 Initial Design............................................16 International Protein Sires.......................IBC Koepke Farms, Inc.....................................17 Lodi Veterinary Clinic..................................4 Origin Reproduction Services...................16 Rickert Bros., LLC.......................................17 Rural Mutual/Brian Greenman.............9, 16 Second Look Holsteins, LLC......................17 Sunshine Genetics....................................16 Ultrascan, Inc............................................16 Wisconsin Holstein Marketing Services...BC
Midwest Holsteins Marathon County............................. 20-22 Our Favorite Holsteins.............................2 Sugar Creek Dairy..................................12 UW-Madison............................................7
June/July 2020 – Wisconsin Holstein News – 19
Let us do the work for you! The Wisconsin Holstein Association staff has the talent and knowledge to help you with your next marketing venture. VANDOSKES Denver Cami -ET
Denver x EX-90 Diamondback x EX-90 Sid x VG-88 Goldwyn
Photos: Cami © Cybil Fisher Photography; left candid © Dusty Boots Photograhy; right candid © The Bullvine
Jr. Champ. Bred & Owned of the Jr. Show Reserve Jr. Champion of the Junior Show Int. Jr. Holstein Show 2019 1st Winter Calf - Int. Jr. Holstein Show 2019 Exhibited by Brianne, Brooklyn and Reid Vandoske 2nd Winter Calf - Int. Holstein Show 2019 Exhibited by Mark, Matt & Will Iager and Lucas Hetts
Cami is now owned by Quality, Beckridge & Agriber
What a ride! We are grateful to those who contributed toward Cami’s 2019 World Dairy Expo success. Thank you to Mark, Matt & Will Iager and Lucas Hetts for purchasing Cami and congratulations on your second place finish with her. We’d like to wish Cami’s new owners, Quality Holsteins, Beckridge and Agriber the best of luck with her during the remainder of the fall show season. W1823 County Line Rd., Cleveland, WI 53015 Bob Vandoske 920.377.0502 Visit our website for the latest news - vandoskedairyllc.com RHA: 519 cows 30,581M 1127F 946P
Specializing in:
• Ad design - print and online • Website Design • Social Media Consulting and Management • Logo Design • Photography
Contact Mara or Laura for a quote! All ad design is FREE with the placement of an ad in the Wisconsin Holstein News.
November 2019 Ad for Vandoske Dairy Farms
Website for Selz-Pralle Dairy
Photo of Floydholm MC Emoji-ET for October 2019 Cover
Wisconsin Holstein Association
K-Manor Holsteins Steve and Janet Keller
Logo design for K-Manor Holsteins 20 – Wisconsin Holstein News – June/July 2020
Mara Budde: 800-223-4269 ext 2 marab@wisholsteins.com Laura Wackershauser: 800-223-4269 ext. 1 lauraw@wisholsteins.com