Michigan Dairy Cattle News Winter Issue 2023

Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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2023

GREAT LAKES REGIONAL DAIRY CONFERENCE February 8-9, 2024

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort | Mt. Pleasant, Michigan Connect with experts, farmers and others in the industry to learn new tools, techniques and strategies to help your dairy thrive!

Topics include:

• Dairy market and policy outlook with Dr. Marin Bozic.

• Hearing experts discuss management strategies to improve your crops, everyday cow health and labor relations.

• Exploring business management approaches to increase profitability.

• A deeper look at reproduction, the future of nutrition and transition planning.

• Tackling what’s new in sustainability, practical health monitoring, and calf health.

• Don’t miss the FREE English and Spanish herdsperson sessions Thursday night, focused on cattle movement, maternity care, communication, and much more!

Early Registration Ends Jan. 28! www.glrdc.org | 989-666-3773 | honkemeg@msu.edu 2

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Winter 2023

Volume 9 • Issue 4 Winter 2023 Melissa Hart, Editor cell: 517-398-1957 email: farm.writer@hotmail.com 4520 Holcomb Rd., North Adams, MI 49262 Erin Robinstine, Layout & Graphic Artist cell: 517-398-7722 email: erin.robinstine@gmail.com 3854 S. KY Route 321, Hagerhill, KY 41222 Michigan Dairy Cattle News Published 4 times per year Michigan Holstein Association EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Steve Reed, Owosso 989-277-2078 Sherry Meyer, Byron Center 616-490-2873 Eric Sneller, Sebewaing 517-420-6840 Lauren Siver, Caro 810-844-6159 Michigan Holstein Association Steve Reed, President 4795 W. Mason Rd., Owosso, MI 48867 Jessica Jakubik, Vice President 616-889-3849 4729 Henderson Lake Rd., Prescott, MI 48765 Carrie Delong, Executive Secretary 810-614-4025 4241 Jones Rd., North Branch, MI 48461 Michigan Jersey Cattle Club Elizabeth Rupprecht, President 989-640-6913 Lauren Siver, Vice President 810-844-6159 Holstein Association USA Phone: 1-800-952-5200 1 Holstein Place, Brattleboro, VT 05302

The official publication of the Michigan Holstein-Friesian Association, Inc. and the Michigan Jersey Cattle Club

Front Page Famous

F

or the cover of this last issue of 2023 we revisit the Holstein Michigander from December of 1951, the year Green Meadow Lily Pabst broke the record for milk production of any breed.

Green Meadow Farms is still developing great homebred cattle today and has been a huge supporter of the MHA and the Michigan Dairy Cattle News.

In this issue we find the Golden Ticket Opportunity time table has shifted a bit, so be sure to check that out on page 9. And we have a feature on this year’s winner of the Golden Ticket Opportunity Logan Welch, see his story on page 14.

As we finish out 2023, I want to say thank you to everyone for your full support and for using this magazine as a piece of your marketing puzzle. It was fun to include our Indiana friends this year as well and we hope to continue that into next year! And boy, do we have plans for 2024!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Melissa Hart What’s Inside From the MHA President: Reed’s Ramblings......................................................4 Breeder Award Nominations.................................................................................4 Mandi’s Memo......................................................................................................... 5 Michigan Junior Holstein News.............................................................................6 In Memoriam........................................................................................................... 7

Michigan Representative Mandi Kipp De Pere, WI • 920-530-5023 mramsburg@holstein.com

2024 GLRDC Set to Prepare Producers for What’s Ahead.................................8

The Michigan Dairy Cattle News, the Michigan Holstein Association or their staff assume no liability for errors, omissions, content or for the effectiveness of advertising and cannot be held responsible for the timeliness of sale advertising that is scheduled less than thirty days ahead of the press date. Indexes are provided as an additional service. Publisher assumes no liabiltiy for errors or omissions. Subscription rate is $15/ year.

2024 MHA Membership Application................................................................... 12

Winter 2023

2024 Golden Ticket Opportunity...........................................................................9 Important Updates on Early Onset Muscle Weakness Syndrome..................10 Events Calendar.....................................................................................................11 Hooked on Cows.................................................................................................... 14 JPITM Update Slated for December Genetic Evaluations.................................. 21 2024 MJCC Membership Application................................................................. 23 Some of 2023’s Best Memories...................................................................28 & 29 One More Thing..................................................................................................... 31 Advertiser Index.................................................................................................... 31

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Reed’s Ramblings Steve Reed, Michigan Holstein Association President • sjreed57@msn.com • 989-277-2078 As I try to come up with something to bore all of you with, I can’t help but recall people who have, and still have, a profound effect on my life. As I reflect there have been too many to mention.

I had a teacher and basketball coach that I would have run through a wall to please. In high school I worked for and with neighbors and friends that helped shape my life and love of the Holstein cow.

I came from a family farm that milked cows as a means of living, not as a way of life. As I look back at that time, there are many producers who shaped my education in the dairy industry.

The ones I tried to learn the most from I considered true dairymen—people that put cows first and above everything else (except our brides). Just out of school, I was a snot-nosed kid that had plenty to learn.

I tried to learn from the greats in the dairy industry and was fortunate to have the experience of talking with Dick Chichester, George Miller, John Hecker, Ron Long, Charlie Will, and of course Clint Meadows. People who shaped the Holstein breed of yesterday

and laid the foundation for tomorrow.

They would say, “people buy from people and your word is your contract”.

I’m not sure how or why but I have always collected older gentlemen as friends. I must admit finding older friends today is getting harder. I guess the real reason I bring this up is we lost one of the true original dairymen, a friend of mine and so many others, Dick Gilna, on Nov. 10, 2023. Dick was a true gentlemen in the dairy industry.

Dick was a mentor and someone I had the utmost respect and admiration for. He certainly was one of the truest breeders and dairymen that I have had the pleasure of knowing. Dick was a pioneer and well respected not only within the state, but nationally as well.

I also ask that you keep another old friend of ours in your thoughts and prayers, Mark Adam, as he continues to fight for his health. Mark faces this challenge with pride and determination.

Look forward to 2024, we will be kicking the year off with the Annual Meeting on Saturday, Feb. 10. Chad

Kreeger has again agreed to have a video sale the evening before the meeting on Friday, Feb. 9. We will have a room reserved for fellowship and refreshments.

This year we will move the Golden Ticket Opportunity raffle to be in conjunction with the spring show, which will allow winners to show their prize heifer throughout the season. I ask for your nominations and support as this is a large fundraiser and helps us support our shows and the youth of the state. I look forward to seeing you at the Annual Meeting on the morning of Saturday, Feb. 10 (at least most of you).

As we reflect on this Christmas Season, please take time to kiss the babies and hug your family and friends.

Steve “People say Facebook is a great way to stay connected with old friends. Well, at my age, if I want to stay connected with old friends I need a Ouija board.” ~ Betty White

— Breeder Award Nominations — If you have someone who is deserving of the Michigan Holstein Master Breeder Award and the Wayne Webster Outstanding Young Breeder Award send a statement of support to Carrie Delong at michiganholstein@gmail.com Here is a list of the past winners: MHA Master Breeder 2023: Weiber Dairy 2022: Joe Kulhawick

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2021: Tim Baker 2020: Steve Reed 2019: Darwin Sneller 2018: Brian Brunik 2017: Doug Westendorp 2016: Louis & Rosemary Stieg 2015: Tom Barends 2014: Doug & Beverly Long Wayne Webster Outstanding Young Breeder 2023: Adam Preston 2022: Evan Stieg 2021: Kenda Brinks-Rivera 2020: Malissa & Liz Reed 2019: Brent Moyer 2018: Greta Koebel & Tera Koebel Baker 2016: Scott Long 2014: Shaun & Betty Hyde 2013: Thomas & Renee McCauley 2012: Mark Bontekoe 2010: Jim Good 2009: Mike Halfman Winter 2023

Mandi’s Memo Mandi Kipp, HAUSA Regional Sales Rep • Michigan’s Upper Peninsula • 920-530-5023 • mkipp@holstein.com It’s hard to believe that 2023 is coming to a close and the holidays are upon us! In this season of thanksgiving, I’m grateful to serve the most dedicated and hard-working individuals out there – Registered Holstein breeders. The commitment and diligence you show throughout the year does not go unnoticed.

Celebrating Michigan dairy success Michigan Holstein breeders have much to be proud of!

Michigan once again ranks first in the country for producing the most milk per cow. An October 13, 2023, article from the “Spartan News Room” titled “Happy cows are healthy cows: Why Michigan’s cows produce the most milk,” highlights the achievement.

“The dairy cows also have a lot of freshwater access, so you can already see things that are stacking up for us compared to other states,” says Michigan State University animal science professor Adam Lock. “But I think that the progressive nature of our industry and our producers in the state is what allows them to pick up the latest ideas or technologies.”

According to the article, a combination of the cows’ feed, environment, and comfort level all contribute to high production levels – and Michigan farms excel in all three.

Of course, the genetics of Michigan’s dairy herds play an essential role. In the article, Lock compliments Michigan’s dairy farmers for the care they give their cows.

“These high-producing dairy cows have minimum stresses, and we provide them with all of the nutrients that they need to make the milk in a safe and comfortable environment,” he says.

This success is a tribute to the entire dairy community in Michigan. Congratulations on a job well done!

You’re invited to the National Holstein Convention The team at 1 Holstein place is busy preparing for an enjoyable 2024 National Holstein Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. Mark your calendars for June 24-27, 2024, and make plans to attend. Highlights of the event will include

Holstein Association USA’s Annual meeting, Junior events and competitions, tours of local attractions, educational seminars, the Fun in the Sun National Convention Sale, and plenty of opportunities for connecting with Holstein friends.

Hotel rooms in the beautiful Hyatt Regency will be open for booking before the end of the year. The hotel boasts floor to ceiling windows on every room, as well as many amenities.

It’s within walking distance of dozens of restaurants and other Salt Lake City destinations. To book your hotel room, view a detailed schedule, or learn more about the 2024 Convention visit www.holsteinconvention.com. Follow along on the National Holstein Convention Facebook and Instagram pages for regular updates and the latest convention news.

Submit award nominations Holstein Association USA’s award recipients will also be recognized during an Awards Banquet at the 2024 National Holstein Convention. Nominations are currently open for the prestigious Distinguished Leadership, Elite Breeder and Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder awards. We encourage you to reflect on fellow dairy industry friends and mentors who you believe have made a positive impact on Holstein Association USA or the Holstein breed and nominate deserving award recipients.

Current Holstein breeders between the ages of 21 and 40 are encouraged to apply for the Distinguished Young Holstien Breeder award. More information, a list of past winners, and applications can be found at www.holsteinusa.com under the “Awards” tab, and then under “Individuals”.

The entire team at Holstein Association USA wants to extend a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to each of you! We hope you find peace, joy, and happiness this holiday season.

Mandi

Spring 2024 Issue Deadline: February 1, 2024 Winter 2023

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From Your President Adalee Thelen, Michigan Holstein Junior Association President The Michigan Junior Holstein Association is ending another fantastic year and we are super grateful!

We just finished up with our annual MJHA Holiday Cheese Sale and had another successful fundraiser. MJHA would like to give a special thank you to everyone who purchased from our sale and for their continued support of the Michigan Holstein juniors!

As we reach the end of the year, let’s look back at all the events, activities, and shows that the juniors were able to take part in! Starting off the year, we held our spring basket silent auction at the Holstein and Jersey annual meetings. Next, many juniors participated in the 2023 Great Lakes Spring Show and received lots of high honors. Additionally, at the Great Lakes Spring Show MJHA hosted an adult showmanship clinic and it was a big success! In June we had many junior Holstein members

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Michigan Dairy Cattle News

attend the 2023 National Holstein Convention in Lexington, Kentucky.

They enjoyed tours, convention, participated in contests, and made lots of memories! Then the board held our annual meeting and Party Barn at the Michigan State Show at Dairy Days. We elected new board members and advisors, as well as connected with juniors. This fall we had many junior Holstein members that competed in judging, quiz bowl, and management contests at the national level. In addition, others tested their luck at multiple national shows. We congratulate everyone on their achievements and honors!

Finally, the MJHA board of directors has been working hard to conduct our Holiday Cheese Sale the past couple of months. It is our biggest fundraiser and we look forward to it every year.

All in all, it has been a year

where a lot of exciting events occurred and a year that we will continue to grow from. Be sure to like and follow our Facebook page to stay up to date on all the Michigan Junior Holstein Association’s future events and opportunities!

Happy Holidays!

Adalee

Winter 2023

In Memoriam

Richard Oliver Gilna, age 90, of Corunna, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, November 10, 2023 at his home.

Richard was born November 6, 1933 in Owosso, the son of Roy and Catherine (Aelker) Gilna, and lived his entire life on the family farm in rural Corunna. He attended Kerby School, and St. Paul Catholic School in Owosso. He married Maureen Bishop at St. Paul Catholic Church on August 30, 1958.

Richard was devoted to family, church and the community. He was an active member of St. Paul Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus.

He was a lifelong dairy and cash crop farmer, most noted for his outstanding herd of Registered Holsteins. He was active in leadership roles with numerous agricultural and dairy organizations, including the Michigan and National Holstein Association, Farm Bureau and the Shiawassee County Fair. In 1989 Dick was named Master Breeder with the Michigan Holstein Association, and was Michigan State University’s Dairyman of the Year in 1988.

Other community activities included being a volunteer and board member for the Respite Volunteers of Shiawassee, member of the Shiawassee Community Mental Health board and the Corunna Education Foundation. He was a huge supporter of 4-H, FFA and the Corunna Public Schools.

Rob is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Missy Godwin; four children, Kaylee, Katelan, Kayla, and Austin Godwin; two sisters, Marla Stookey (husband Jeff) and Stephanie Crouch; Aunt, Judy Reed (husband Terry); uncle, Larry Godwin; parents-in-law, Mike and Pam Beeman; and several nieces and nephews.

Rob was preceded in death by his grandmother, Grace Godwin.

A funeral service to celebrate Rob’s life will be held at 1:00 pm Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at Gant Funeral Homes – Yorktown Chapel, 2215 S. Broadway St. in Yorktown. Pastor Michael Osborne will officiate. Burial will follow in Elm Ridge Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Indiana Holstein Association, 9038 W. 100 S. Greensburg, IN 47240.

Share a memory of Rob and leave your condolences at www.gantfuneralhomes.com The Gant and Miller families are honored to celebrate Rob’s life with his family and community.

Dick enjoyed hunting trips up north, bowling and fishing.

He spent many hours cheering on the Detroit Tigers, Lions and Redwings along with the MSU Spartans.

Dick’s legacy will live on in the lives of the many young people he mentored over the years. Whether they worked on the farm, were involved with him in organizations, or were just one of the neighborhood kids, Dick was a model of character, hard work and integrity to all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his wife of 65 years Maureen; children Michele (Erwin) Lenneman, Cheryl (Christopher) Lozen, Michael (Lisa) Gilna and Christine Gilna; grandchildren Bonnie (Evan Conklin) Lenneman, Bryan (Megan) Lenneman, Zachary Gilna, Olivia (David) Crawford, Alaynie (Matthew) Stewart and Isaac Gilna; Great-grandchildren Isla Lenneman and Gabriel Crawford; many other loving family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents and infant daughter Mary Theresa.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Respite Volunteers of Shiawassee, Corunna Education Foundation or St. Paul Catholic Church.

Robert Jay Godwin, 57, of Daleville, passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital.

Rob was born on December 20, 1965, in Muncie to the late Jay and Carolyn Godwin. He was a 1984 graduate of Yorktown High School. Rob worked for Outdoor Concepts and was a dairy farmer and cattle fitter. He had also worked for Sears, Small Engine Warehouse, and was a school bus driver for Yorktown Schools. Rob was a member of the Indiana Holstein Assoc. and enjoyed working on tractors and spending time with his family.

Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Profitability, cow care & labor management in the future

2024 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference Set to Prepare Producers for What’s Ahead EAST LANSING, Mich. – Due to the overwhelming success of last year’s redesigned program, the 22nd annual Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference (GLRDC) will follow a similar format, integrating expert sessions into the exhibit and sponsor hall, along with targeted sessions for herdspersons offered in both English and Spanish.

Renowned experts will share a variety of technical and strategic information to help producers improve their bottom line and help ensure they are producing milk decades from now. The 2024 GLRDC will take place Feb. 8-9, 2024, at the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

Dairy producers and the dairy industry are facing ever changing challenges. As a result, dairy producers must continue expanding their knowledge and enhancing their networks and GLRDC is ripe with opportunities for dairy producers to engage in this vital learning and networking.

With extended break times, mealtimes and an evening reception all incorporated into the exhibit area, this year’s conference allows ample networking between producers, expert speakers and industry representatives.

In addition to the enhanced networking time, the conference features a mix of longer educational sessions and short presentations by leading industry experts designed to generate dialogue with conference attendees. Producers will have the opportunity to learn about the following topics throughout the two-day conference: •

a dairy market and policy outlook with Marin Bozic from the University of Minnesota

•

an in-depth look at cow health examining the latest transition cow research and real-world examples from experienced veterinarians.

•

practical tips and tactics on ways to leverage technology for improved crop management.

•

new approaches to labor management and key factors of employee retention from human resource specialists from Milk Source, Lakeview Farms and Alltech.

•

A look at nutrition now and into the future, focused on forages and the evolution of feeding ruminal microbes to support cow health through improved nutrition.

•

the latest in reproduction with Paul Fricke from the University of Wisconsin

•

a forward look at sustainability and how it will impact you

•

an update from MSU on antibiotic usage, manure management and the new dairy

•

an exploration into farm management and profitability with Sarina Sharp from Dairy Today and Jason Karszes from Cornell University

•

the factors impacting passive immunity and gut health in calves

•

how to incorporate precision monitoring to deploy prevention and treatment protocols earlier to improve cow health and save money

•

strategies to avoid mistakes in dairy farm succession planning

•

learn about opportunities for individual on-farm solar, without utilizing fields with our sponsored session by Solar by Alamo Valley Ag

•

And so much more.

On Thursday evening, producers can also attend the free herdsperson sessions, offered in both English and Spanish, covering cattle movement, communication, maternity care and more.

In conjunction with GLRDC, the Michigan Holstein All-Breeds Convention Sale will be held on Friday evening, followed by the Michigan Jersey Cattle Club Annual Meeting and the Michigan Holstein Association Annual meeting on Saturday, Feb. 10.

Adult, student and farm registration options are available. Producers should have their state producer number available to register. Registration closes on Jan. 28, 2024 at midnight. On-site registration is subject to availability. For more information, including a detailed copy of the agenda and to register online, visit www.glrdc.org. To register by phone, call 989-666-3773.

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Winter 2023

W H AT I S T H E M H A G O L D E N T I C K E T O P P O R T U N I T Y ?

This is a SPRING opportunity you do not want to miss!

This is your chance to help us celebrate and promote the breeders in Michigan and their high-quality animals. Proceeds will benefit our junior and show programs.

WANT TO BE INVOLVED? MHA members can enter their registered animals. These should be elite individuals from great pedigrees, show ring type, or top genomic individuals. All ages will be considered, however, more emphasis will be placed on heifers. All breeds owned by paid MHA members are eligible. State members can nominate animals using the form below. All entries must be received by January 21, 2024. A Nomination Fee of $25 covers GTO and Great Lakes All-Breed Spring Show entry. Owner is responsible for sending show entry information.

The more information provided in the nomination the better context the judges will have to make their selections.

Examples of information include at least three generation pedigree, show winnings of the individual and family members, pictures of the animal and family members a brief explanation of why you think she should be selected.

When entering your animal, you are committing to the calf potentially being selected as the winner and/or the Golden Ticket Tag Sale. Entries will be selected by the GTO Committee and Sale Committee using an All-American style ranking system. Committee reserves the right to refuse any nomination.

A maximum of 15 animals will be accepted. Upon selection, an additional $100 is due to MHA, then you will receive a Golden Ticket.

There will be 125 lottery tickets printed, and 123 of them

will be sold for $100 each. The remaining two tickets will be auctioned off to benefit the Michigan junior programs. This auction will be held at the Golden Ticket Event on March 22 and the tickets purchased will automatically be in the top 12 drawing.

WHEN AND WHERE WILL THE DRAWING BE HELD? The drawing will be held on March 22 at the MSU Pavilion prior to the 2024 Great Lakes Spring Show. Ticket holders need not be present to win but do need to have a representative to choose an animal or a prize on their behalf. GTO Tag Sale to follow immediately after selection. Should they choose to do so, the selected animal can be sold in the tag sale by new owner.

Ten tickets will be drawn on March 22 and those will be joined by the two tickets that were auctioned. Eleven winners will go home with consolation prizes valued at no less than $100 and one lucky winner will be leaving with the animal of their choice. The nominator of the selected animal will receive a check for $5,000 for that animal and the other calves will be sold at the GTO Tag Sale should the owner choose to do so.

For more information about the tag sale contact George Bush 810-499-2087.

HOW CAN I GET A TICKET? Tickets can be purchased from any MHA board member, online (credit card or PayPal) using link posted on our Facebook pages or by calling the office at 810-614-4025.

The Golden Ticket Opportunity nominees will be featured in the Spring issue of the Michigan Dairy Cattle News.

GREAT LAKES GOLDEN TICKET OPPORTUNITY CALF ENTRY FORM Heifer’s Registered Name: ______________________________ Reg. #: ____________________________ Heifer’s Date of Birth: ____________________________________________________________________ Sire: _________________________________________ Dam: ___________________________________ Dam’s Production Record: __________ Age: _______ Days: ________ M: _________ F: ________ P: _______ Owner’s Name: _______________________________________ Phone: ___________________________ Address: ________________________________ City, State, Zip: _________________________________ Email: _______________________________________________________________________________ Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ____________________________ Due by January 21, 2024. Please attach/include all information for consideration at the time of nomination. Additional late information or pictures will NOT be considered. Email entries and info to michiganholstein@gmail.com or mail to: MHA, 4241 Jones Road, North Branch, MI 48461

Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Important Updates from Holstein Association USA on

Early Onset Muscle Weakness Syndrome BRATTLEBORO, Vt.— Holstein Association USA has continued to monitor information related to Early Onset Muscle Weakness Syndrome (MW) over the past several months. The development of the haplotype calls for Muscle Weakness (HMW) has been a top priority for Holstein Association USA, along with colleagues at the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB), USDAAGIL and the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB).

During the Fall 2023 Holstein Association USA Board meeting in Chicago, Illinois, the Holstein Association USA Board of Directors approved staff’s recommendations for further action regarding MW. Holstein Association USA will make the haplotype results available in conjunction with the official genetic evaluation release on December 5, 2023. This information can be found in the same place as other haplotype

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information, including the free Family Tree Search, within Red Book Plus Online, on genomic reports, and within Enlight.

Results for HMW will be reported as 0 (free), 1 (carrier), 2 (homozygous affected, 3 (probable carrier), or 4 (probable homozygous) on evaluations.

CDCB predicts a number of Holstein genotypes in the database will receive a status of 3 or 4 for HMW, due to the inability to confirm the presence of the mutated haplotype through available pedigree information.

Next Steps Holstein Association USA staff will analyze the HMW haplotypes released in December and collect comments from Holstein breeders and scientific researchers. Following a satisfactory review outcome, Holstein Association USA plans to add MW to the list of officially recognized undesirable genetic conditions in February 2024.

Additional resources and information on MW can be found on the Holstein Association USA web site.

A regularly updated list of bulls with an NAAB code with a direct test result on file can be found at https://www. holsteinusa.com/lists/early_onset_ muscle_weakness.html.

The best tool available for discovering and understanding new genetic conditions is farmer reporting.

Therefore, breeders performing gene tests on animals are asked to forward those results to Holstein Association USA, at labresults@holstein.com.

Farmers who have calves born with abnormal features or health issues that are suspected to be caused by genetic problems are asked to complete the Abnormality Report Form available at https://www.holsteinusa.com/pdf/ forms_apps/abnormality_report.pdf and email it to LabResults@holstein. com, or contact the Genetic Services department at 800.952.5200.

Winter 2023

Events Calendar

December 25: Christmas Holiday

December 29: Nominating ballots must be received by Holstein Association USA January 16, 2024: Hotel reservation deadline for Soaring Eagle Hotel for GLRDC rates January 21: Golden Ticket Opportunity nominations due

March 22-23: Great Lakes Spring Show & Tag Sale, MSU Pavilion, East Lansing March 25-29: NY Spring Dairy Carousel, Hamburg, NY March 27-30: Spring Dairy Expo, Columbus, Ohio June 24-27: National Holstein Convention, Salt Lake City, UT

February 1: MDCN ad deadline for the Spring Issue February 1: HAUSA delegate election finalized February 8-9: Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant February 9-10: Michigan Holstein Association & Michigan Jersey Cattle Club Convention & annual meetings, Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant February 9: MHA All Breeds Convention Sale, Mt. Pleasant, MI February 10: MHA-MJCC Annual Meetings, Mt. Pleasant, MI February 10: Indiana Holstein Association Annual Meeting, The Barn at Silverstone Farm, Greenfield, IN

Design ©Topline Marketing + Design

March 22: Golden Ticket Opportunity Drawing, MSU Pavilion, East Lansing

Winter 2023

Susie Green • Sadie Green • Emily Klingbeil • Elsie, MI • 989-413-0639 Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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2 0 24 MEMBERSH I P

M I C H I G A N H O L S T E I N A S S O C IAT I O N 4241 Jones Road • North Branch, MI 48461 Please update information accurately and completely. Memberships expire on December 31, 2023.

NAME: ____________________________________________________________ HFAA ACCT. #: _____________________________________ NAME USED FOR STATE AND NATIONAL MEMBERSHIPS MUST BE EXACTLY THE SAME TO GET THE LOWEST REGISTRATION RATE.

ADDRESS: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY: _______________________ STATE: ________ ZIP: _______ COUNTY: _______________ DISTRICT: _______________________ FARM NAME: _________________________________________________ REGISTERED PREFIX: ___________________________________ SPOUSE: ____________________________________________________________________________________ PHONE: _______________________________ EMAIL: _____________________________________________

NEW MEMBER:

NO. OF MILKING AGED FEMALES: Registered: ____________________________________Grade: __________________________________ DIRECTIONS TO FARM: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A D U LT M E M B E R S H I P Examples-Reg. Cows 1 cow ................$51.00 2 cows ...............$52.00 3 cows ...............$53.00 10 cows .............$60.00 50 cows ...........$100.00 100 cows.........$150.00 101 cows.........$151.00 102 cows.........$152.00 125 cows.........$175.00 150 cows.........$200.00 175 cows.........$225.00 200 cows.........$250.00 300 cows.........$350.00 400 cows.........$450.00 500 cows.........$550.00 501 cows.........$550.75 510 cows.........$556.75 525 cows.........$568.00

Adult Base Membership (includes 1 Michigan Dairy Cattle News subscription) ...................................................

$50.00

$1.00 per registered milking-aged Holstein female (first 500) ...................................................................................

75¢ per registered milking-aged Holstein female (501-1,000) ...................................................................................

50¢ per registered milking-aged Holstein female (1,001 and over) ...........................................................................

Subtotal w/Adult Membership & Cows

ADDITIONAL SUBSCRIPTIONS to Michigan Dairy Cattle News Additional adult subscription ($15 each) .....................................................................................................................

Junior member subscription ($10 each) .......................................................................................................................

Additional Subscriptions Subtotal

ADDI T IONA L MD CN SU BSCR I PTIONS NAME(S): _____________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ____________________________________________________________________________ CITY: _____________________________________ STATE: _____________ ZIP: _________________

total all fees for 2024

M IC H IG A N JU N IOR HOLSTE I N ASSO CIATION ME MBE R SHI P NAME(S): __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY: _____________________________________ STATE: _____________ ZIP: ______________________________________________ PHONE: ________________________________ COUNTY: ________________________________________________________________ BIRTHDATE(S): ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ PARENTS (OR GUARDIAN): __________________________________________________________________________________________ THIS IS YOUR RECEIPT — PLEASE DETACH & DETAIN FOR YOUR RECORDS

MICHIGAN HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION 2024 MEMBERSHIP Membership is for January 1 through December 31, 2024.

Date: _______________________________ Total Fee: ___________________________ Check #: ____________________________

MICHIGAN HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION • 4241 Jones Rd. • North Branch, MI 48461 • Phone: 810-614-4025 • Email: michiganholstein@gmail.com

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Winter 2023

1st Jr-2-Yr-Old Mid-East Fall National Holstein Show

Design ©Topline Marketing + Design • Lea Jordan photo

Pulled out for Intermediate Champion Calved @3-23-23 with a Chief Heifer • 6 tests average 108# Milk 4.1F Due back in March to Parfect

Dam: Creeknook McCutchen Emmalyn EX-90 @3Yrs 3-00 33,349M 4.4F 3.0P 3rd Lactation in progress 2nd Dam: Creeknook Bradnick Elena EX-91 EXMS 5-07 32,343M 4.7F 3.3P 5th Lactation in progress @7Yrs old 3rd Dam: Creeknook Guthrie Ellen EX-91 3E @11Yrs 9th Lactation in progress Lifetime: 236,000M 4.9F 3.4P

RHA: 28,914 M 1306F 880P • BAA: 112% on 34 Cows Steve Landis – 574-536-8069 • Brian Landis - 574-536-5026 65868 CR 21 • Goshen, IN 46526 Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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HOOKED

on cows

By Bev Berens

Logan Welch of Hopkins, Michigan, is a quiet individual. But don’t mistake the silence for indifference.

He is most likely thinking about cows - the next calf to be born, sire selections for his herd, visualizing his performance in the show ring. If he is found glued to his phone, it isn’t a game that captures his attention: He is studying sire summaries and choosing bulls for the semen tank.

Summarizing Logan isn’t difficult.

Just figure when he isn’t working with cattle, he is thinking about them. “If you can’t find Logan, look in the barn, because that’s where he will be,” said his mom, Kerri.

The 17-year-old junior at Hopkins High School is an FFA member, belongs to the Wayland Livestock 4-H Club and has been showing cattle at the Allegan County Fair since he became eligible.

He is also a member of the Michigan Junior Holstein board and has been on the Allegan County Dairy Quiz Bowl team since he was nine years old.

“Logan has always been a determined young man,” said his 4-H leader, Jake Rottier. “I remember the first year at the fair showing a cow, he was so short he had to hold his hands above his head to show that cow. All the other kids would have one or two animals to show; he would take five.”

Logan is the third generation of farmers at Welch-kin Acres. His grandfather began farming during the 1970s recession when his bricklaying business dried up. He began by buying heifer calves. His choices were to feed and beef them; feed then breed, and sell heifers; or feed, breed, calve and start milking them. Logan’s dad, Dale, noted he never remembers wanting to be anything but a dairy farmer. (He may have had a little influence on the decision to milk cows in those early days, when he was a preteen.)

Logan took his own initiative to A.I. and do some ET work in his herd.

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When his father’s construction business rebounded, Dale took over the herd and began purchasing the land and cows upon his high school graduation in 1987. Today’s herd consists of about 70 percent Holsteins, with the balance made up of Brown Swiss, Jerseys and Ayrshires. There are between 160-170 cows in milk at any given time, plus dry cattle. The herd delivers high components with 4.1-4.2 BF and 3.5-3.6 P. He credits these components to a combi-

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nation of colored breeds in the herd and a switch to baleage as forage a couple years ago. “The baleage has a longer cut, encouraging more chewing and saliva production,” he explained.

Logan owns 27 head consisting of Holsteins, Red and White Holsteins, Jerseys, Brown Swiss, Guernseys and Ayrshires. The first female he bought was a Jersey named Mead-Manor Premier Penny, purchased at World Dairy Expo. Penny produced one daughter that recently calved with a bull. Penny and Logan made a strong team for many years at the county fair, winning multiple champion and showmanship titles before she had to be culled. They were also competitive at Michigan’s summer dairy show.

This year he noticed a great-granddaughter of Penny in World Dairy Expo’s sale catalog, and was fortunate to add her to his herd during the sale. “I am excited to watch her develop and see what she becomes,” he said.

The 2023 Michigan Dairy Expo will remain a highlight because Logan won the Golden Ticket Opportunity calf raffle, bringing home BSP Viennas Vally Girl - a calf that goes back to Veronica Huronia Centurion Veronica EX-97 a multi-champion All-American. George Bush owned and exhibited the Reserve Champion Jersey, Vitality Energizer Bunny 93E, and offered to sell her to Logan. She, along with several others from Bush’s herd, eventually made their way to Allegan after a late summer classification.

ship with them since Penny left the farm.

“Ayrshires seem to bond and build trust with you, and they are loyal,” Logan explained.

Since he was eight or nine, Logan dreamed of showing his cattle on a national level at World Dairy Expo and the North American International Livestock Exposition. The dream came true in 2022 when he purchased an Ayrshire, Miss Ginger Zest-ET, from Casey Hushon and Dakotta Pfaff. He dreams of showing his own genetics nationally, but the labor required on a family-run farm keeps Logan and his family closer to home.

Dr. Keith Salmon is the South Kent Veterinary Clinic veterinarian who Logan and his parents, Dale and Kerri works with the younger Welch on em- Welch milk about 160 head at the farm in bryo transfer projects. “Logan took his Hopkins, Michigan. own initiative to A.I. and do some ET work in his herd. He has learned A.I. er that same week, he represented his and breeds most of the heifers himself state in the national FFA Farm Business now,” Salmon said. “He puts a lot of re- Management Contest in Indianapolis, search into what he wants, he asks a lot with two teammates from Hopkins FFA. of questions, and it is fun when a young “(This year’s) Quiz Bowl was the culgeneration shows the interest and wants mination of what I’ve been working for to learn like Logan does. Having and de- since I started in Quiz Bowl,” he said. “I veloping Ayrshires, he isn’t following the have learned and studied a lot through path that everyone else does, and is go- Quiz Bowl, and the experiences have reing his own way.” ally helped shape my confidence.”

This fall, Logan was captain of the That confidence has led him to help Michigan 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl team that others in the Wayland 4-H Club where he represented Michigan at NAILE. Earli- holds showmanship clinics and works with members to help them understand matings and sire selections.

“The younger kids really look up to Logan,” Rottier said. “He is a very good role model, and he loves to talk about cows with them at any time.”

Current bulls in the tank reserved for Logan’s herd include for Ayrshires Kingsire and Regan, for the Brown Swiss he uses Famous and Foremost and the Holstein sires included Moovin and Eye Candy.

He selects bulls for success in the show ring, describing his breeding program as a work in progress.

The Ayrshires have worked their way to the top of his favored list, and he has been succeeding in showman-

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“Logan is a good kid; he’s the kind of kid we need in the animal sciences,” Salmon added.

Logan won the Golden Opportunity Ticket calf raffle at the All-Michigan Summer show and chose a Jersey bred by George Bush and Lauren Siver.

In a perfect world, he would love to develop superior genetics, particularly with his Ayrshires, while milking 150 cows and showing cattle on a prominent platform. While the world isn’t perfect and Logan is uncertain about his future, he is certain it will include some aspect of the dairy industry.

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Rod-er-Dic Atwood Faylene 2E-EX91

We had an Excellent day scoring cows during our most recent classification • Rod-er-Dic GWA Dark Prism 2E EX-90 • Strautz-AAA Ladd S Dakota EX-91 +1 • Strautz-AAA GWA Milky Gigi EX-90 • Rod-er-Dic GWA Betty EX-90

• Rod-er-Dic Macho Nancy RC EX-90 MS-93 • Butlerview AR Amosa-ET 2E EX-90 • Long-Haven Merjack Chandra EX-90

8 Cows Received an EX Score during our most recent Holstein Classification.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Service Age Bulls & Replacement Females Available. Bulls, heifers, and cows available

7692 Kalamazoo S.E. | Byron Center, MI 49315 e: Roderdic@yahoo.com | Fallow us on Facebook

Paul Meyer: 616.490.3336 | Sherry Meyer: 616.490.2873 | Craig Southerton – Herdsman Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Background photo by Dairy Agenda Today

We love our homemade

Photo by Lea Jordan, Cybil Fisher Photography

Silver Hitch DB Cheese Cake VG-88

u Diamondback x Defiant x Baltimor u Will see a classifier soon! u 1st 4-Yr-Old Mid-East Fall National Holstein Show u Senior and Grand Champion Mid-East Fall National Holstein Show u 4th 4-Yr-Old International Junior Holstein Show u Best Bred & Owned 4-Yr-Old International Junior Holstein Show u 1st 4-Yr-Old Premier National Junior Holstein Show u HM Senior Champion and Best Bred & Owned PNJH u 2nd 4-Yr-Old Eastern National Holstein Show u HM Senior Champion Eastern National Holstein Show u Champion Bred and Owned Mid-East Fall National Holstein Show u 4th All-National 4-Yr-Old

[

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We have 2 Warrior daughters-1 black, 1 red from her last two pregnancies that look a lot like their mother.

We are excited to get them both out next year!

18 Michigan Dairy Cattle News

Chad, Marla, Morgan, Amelia, Taylor and Marshall Stone WinterIN2023 Marla: 614.205.1092 | Silverstonefarm1@gmail.com | 6508 W 100 N | Greenfield, 46140

Design ©Topline Marketing + Design • Sarah Damrow Undenied photo • DAT Quest photo

Premier Breeder & Exhibitor

8th Year Straight at Great Lakes Spring Show & All-Michigan Summer Show F R O M

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GREEN MEADOW FARMS Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

CRAIG, DARCY & CORBIE GREEN • VELMAR GREEN 989-862-4291 • Elsie, Michigan 48831 • greenmeadowfarms.com • FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK Winter 2023

“Where the Latch String is Always Out ”

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THANK YOU

AS 2023 DRAWS TO A CLOSE WE WANT TO SAY

for trusting the Michigan Dairy Cattle News to be a part of your marketing plan.

We enjoy working with each of you and look forward to serving you in 2024.

From our team to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

MELISSA HART u BOBBY HART u ERIN ROBINSTINE u ERICA DAVIS u SARAH HART u BEV BERENS

Our Team Specializes in Ad Design, Feature Writing, Newsletters, Digital Media, Print Media, Photography

20 Michigan Dairy Cattle News 517. 398.1957 | Fa r m .wr i ter @ h ot m a i l . co m

Winter 2023

Jersey Performance IndexTM Update Slated for December Genetic Evaluations Reynoldsburg, Ohio—An update to Jersey Performance IndexTM ( JPI) and Jersey Udder Index ( JUI) was implemented December 5, 2023, when the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) releases the December official genetic evaluations.

The new weights of JPI2023 and JUI were approved by the Board of Directors of the American Jersey Cattle Association at a special meeting on September 28.

JPI2023 will have 55% of the emphasis on production (+6% from the previous version), 15% on fertility, 10% on survival traits (+2% from previous version), 10% on udder traits, and 10% on health traits.

Traits included and their weights are PTA protein, 30%; PTA fat, 25%; Productive Life, 10%;Cow Conception Rate, 8%; Daughter Pregnancy Rate, 7%; Somatic Cell Score, -5%; Mastitis resistance, 5%; udder depth, 4%; fore udder, 4%; and rear udder height, 2%.

The inclusion of udder depth, fore udder and rear udder height traits to the JPI2023 formula are a direct result of the findings from the Risk of Culling study done by Dr. Kent Weigel and associates at

the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2022. With the new formula emphasis has been placed on increasing production and longer herd life while maintaining strongly attached udders. Some rescaling and reranking is to be expected in December as the focus on herd health with mastitis, components and udder depth has been increased.

Jersey Udder Index Updates The AJCA board of directors also approved a new JUI formula at the September meeting. The formula is designed as a standalone publishable index. Weightings in JUI will change to 23% udder depth, 18% rear udder height, 17% fore udder; 15% rear udder width, 7% udder cleft and 5% each for teat placement, rear teat placement rear view, rear teat placement side view and teat length.

Additionally, emphasis was shifted in the JUI formula by making Udder Cleft, Udder Depth, TeatPlacement, Rear Teat Placement Rear View, Rear Teat Placement Side View and Teat Length twoway traits with an intermediate optimum. Fore Udder, Rear Udder Height and Width will

now be capped at maximum value.

Performance -Based Indexes for the Jersey Breed “JPI2023 is a strategy to identify highperforming, healthy, and long-lived Jersey cows, while driving the breed to higher protein production,” Neal Smith, Executive Secretary said. “The new JUI index follows the same strategy as the performancebased JPI2023 index as it rewards highperforming, longlived cows with durable udders. These two indexes are a positive step for the breed.”

The American Jersey Cattle Association, organized in 1868, compiles and maintains animal identification and performance data on Jersey cattle and provides services that support genetic improvement and greater profitability through increasing the value of and demand for Registered Jersey™ cattle and genetics.

For more information on the association’s complete line of services for dairy business owners, visit USJersey.com or connect at facebook.com/USJersey.

Chad Hale from Byron Seed LLC will be the keynote speaker!

No matter whether you are farmer, forage industry rep, or from an agricultural governmental service agency the 2024 Great Lakes Forage & Grazing Conference will have a lot to offer.

Come and enjoy lunch, a trade show, and become a member of the Michigan Forage Council!

Winter 2023

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Michigan Jersey Cattle Club 2024 Membership Application Name:______________________________________________________________________ Farm Name: _________________________________________________________________ Phone: ( ) ___________________ Cell Phone: (____)____________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________ City : _________________________ State: ___________________ Zipcode ____________ Email: _______________________________________________________________________ Directions to Farm ___________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Number of Jerseys: Registered________ Grade _____________

************************************************************************ All Memberships include a subscription to the Michigan Dairy Cattle News unless otherwise requested.

Adult Membership:

Active Breeders with voting rights

$25.00 ____

Family Membership:

$40.00 ____

Farm Membership:

$50.00 ____

Junior Membership:

$5.00 ____

1 Adult Membership with unlimited Junior Memberships (Junior member must be of the same family as the adult member) Unlimited Adult and Junior Memberships Voting rights will only be offered to One listed Adult Junior member must be of the same family as the adult member (under 21 as of Dec 31 of current year)

Total $ __________ List of Junior Members _____________________ age___ _____________________ age ___ _____________________ age___ _____________________ age___

List of Adult Members (Farm Membership) _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ ______________________________________

********************************************************************* Keep this portion for your records Make checks payable to Michigan Jersey Cattle Association Total amount paid $ _______ Send payment with form to: Carrie Delong 4241 Jones Rd North Branch, MI 48461 (810) 614 – 4025 michiganjersey@yahoo.com Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Photo by Lea Jordan Cybil Fisher Photography

Double W

Martini Applebe VG 87

« 3rd Calf 4-Yr-Old for 2024 « 2-9 382D 19,279M 3.1% 633F 3.8% 727P « She will be ready for the ring in the Spring!

Express SMD

Wild Fire

« Due in March to First Choice « 3rd Sr 3-Yr-Old SDE

Brown Swiss JR Show

« Honorable Mention Intermediate

Champion SDE Brown Swiss JR Show

La Rainbow

« These girls will be making the spring line-up! « Glen Islay Passat Finlay VG 85 « 2-5 305D 19,932M 5.2% 1038F 3.8% 763P

Sweet Seattle VG 87

« With a record in progress of 2-11 274D

22,792M 4.3% 961F 3.6% 784P

« She’s due in springto Deluxe

Nor-Bert

Kade Flanna VG 86

« #87 on the top 300 PPR list

« With a record in progress of 2-8 281D

22,329M 4.3% 944F 3.4% 750P

« Due in Spring to Top Gun

Brent Moyer | Brent Robins on | C aro, Mi chi gan 989.553.4333 | Bren_Haven@y a ho o.c om 24 Michigan Dairy Cattle News

Winter 2023

MICHIGAN HOLSTEIN

All-Breeds Convention Sale February 9, 2024 • Sale Start Time: 7:00 pm

S OA R I N G E AG L E C A SI N O, M T. P L E A S A N T, M IC H IG A N

In conjunction with the Michigan Holstein Association & Michigan Jersey Cattle Club Annual Meetings

Join us for the Pre-Sale Social Hour at 6 pm with Heavy Hors d’ Oeuvres sponsored by Michigan Holstein Association and a cash bar.

We are looking for consignments!

Type • Genomic-Group Lots • Color Breeds • Any Age Contact George Bush - 810- 499-2087 or Dave Bennett – 989-286-7244 Online bidding through Kreegerdairy.com Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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RISE TO THE TOP WHEN YOU ADVERTISE ON DAIRY AGENDA TODAY.

Promote your success on

David Jons, Manager David.jons@att.net 913-634-3526 Winter 2023

Melissa Hart, Editor farm.writer@hotmail.com 517-398-1957

SALES STAFF Chad Griffith - Ohio xavier12146@yahoo.com 513-543-2315

Mary Thomson - Missouri Maryagenda@icloud.com 417-880-5732 Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Some of 2023’s Best Memories

28 Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Some of 2023’s Best Memories

Winter 2023

Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Design ©Topline Marketing + Design • Cybil Fisher photos

Sidekick x Mogul x Goldwyn DOB: 9-2-2022 • Bred to Hulu and due in May. She is ready to enter an IVF program.

PTAT +3.06 UDC +2.74 FLC +.82

HER DAM:

KINGS-RANSOM MOGUL -ET EX-95 EEEE 2E DOM Lifetime: 1743D 153,350M 4.6 7029F 3.3 5098P 2nd Dam: Golden-Oaks Gwyn Classy-ET EX-92 4th-11th Dams all EX back to Roxy EX 97

Cleo

A FULL SISTER TO CLEO– THE FAMOUS CLEAVAGE!

KINGS-RANSOM MG -ET EX-95 DOM

Cleavage

2-11 365D 38240M 4.8 1838F 3.5 1336P Top 10 NY Cow of the Century 97 Registered Daughters in the US Mogul x Golden-Oaks Gwyn Classy EX-92 Completes 10 Gen of EX back to the Roxys!

CLEO’S MATERNAL SISTERS: Kings-Ransom Doc Clever-ET EX-94 MS96 2-03 3X 296D 26,430M 4.2 1109F 3.4 886P Nom. Jr. All-American Jr. 3-Yr-Old 2021 1st 4-Yr-Old NY Spring Jr Show 2022 Kings-Ransom Monterey Clash EX-94 EEEEE 3-01 3X 305D 29,670M 4.0 1193F 3.1 928P HM Jr. All-American 4-Yr-Old 2020 Nom. Jr. All-American 5-Yr-Old 2021

KNOLLTOP FARM Bobby & Melissa Hart • North Adams, Michigan • 517-398-2997 Housed at Richman Farms, Lodi, Ohio 30 Michigan Dairy Cattle News

Winter 2023

One More Thing...

Congratulations to those who were approved for the Holstein Association USA National Judges List--Pat Conroy, Brian Engleking, and Jeff Stookey from Indiana and Moss McCauley from Michigan. Also, congrats to those making the HAUSA Approved Judges list from Indiana --Mike Lortie and Micah Matlock.

Check the calendar for annual meeting dates. The MHA, MJCC and the IHA all meet on the same day – February 10th. The Michigan meetings will be held in Mt. Pleasant while the Indiana Holstein Association meeting will be held at The Barn at Silverstone Farm in Greenfield, Indiana.

Check for updates on the Golden Ticket Opportunity contest on the Michigan Holstein Association Facebook page. Those nominations are due January 21st!

Spring 2024 Issue Deadline: February 1, 2024 Beck’s Hybrids..................................................................... 31 Bovine Beautician................................................................ 31 Buell’s Bovines......................................................................11 CattleTraxX LLC....................................................................8 Commodity Blenders............................................................6 Creeknook Holsteins........................................................... 13 Dairy Agenda Today............................................................. 27 Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference.............................2 Green Meadow Farms......................................................... 19 Hart Communications....................................................... 20 Hilltop-RJ Holsteins............................................................ 25 Holstein USA-Mandi Kipp.................................................... 5 Knolltop Farm..................................................................... 30 MHA All-Breeds Convention Sale...................................... 25 MHA/MJCC Call to Meeting................................................26 Michigan Forage Council.................................................... 21 Michigan Livestock Service................................................ 16 MMPA....................................................................................32 Neuenschwander, Gordon.................................................... 7 Oneeda Farm........................................................................22 Pinnacle Swiss......................................................................24 Posey Creek Farm................................................................ 31 Prenger’s, Inc.......................................................................10 Rod-er-Dic Holsteins...........................................................17 Silver Stone Farm................................................................ 18 Tomerton Holsteins...............................................................4 Vitality Crew..........................................................................11

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Dairy Greatness from Great Lakes Farmers Founded in 1916, the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) is a farmer-owned milk marketing cooperative and dairy processor. MMPA’s member farms, located throughout the Great Lakes Region, lead the way in quality milk production. Nationally recognized for their commitment to quality, MMPA serves its member-owners every day, not only by marketing their milk, but by providing services and opportunities to all.

32 Michigan Dairy Cattle News

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Winter 2023