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is what the Michigan Milk Producers Association is all about. Weâ€™re working together for our farm families and the communities we serve. MMPA IS A DAIRY COOPERATIVE AND MILK PROCESSOR SERVING DAIRY FARMERS IN THE GREAT LAKES REGION SINCE 1916.

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Volume 4 • Issue 1 Spring 2018 The Michigan Dairy Cattle News is the official publication of the Michigan Holstein-Friesian Association, Inc. and the Michigan Jersey Cattle Club.

Melissa Hart, Editor Cell: 517-398-1957 email: farm.writer@hotmail.com 4520 Holcomb Rd., North Adams, MI 49262

on the cover . . .

Hidden Hills Dairy and Yonkman Farm will be two of the four featured farms on the Host Day tours on July 1st at the National Holstein Convention in Traverse City. Read more about these unique operations inside and peruse the Midwest Holsteins section. Don’t forget to fill out your spring show entry forms if you want to participate in the Great Lakes Spring Show on March 24th in East Lansing! Yonkman photo courtesy of Molly Pluger, Hidden Hills photo courtesy of DeLaval

Melissa Hart

Michigan Dairy Cattle News 401 Harvest Trail, Midlothian, TX 76065 Ph: 517-490-7736 michholstein1@gmail.com Published 4 times per year Michigan Dairy Cattle News EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Tim Baker, Byron Center Brent Moyer, Caro Ike Hunt, Elsie Suzanne Tuttila, Williamston

616-813-6745 989-553-4333 989-862-4864 517-490-7736

Michigan Holstein Association Tim Baker, President 2335 16th Ave, Byron Center, MI 49353 Brent Moyer, Vice President 2647 E. Caro Rd., Caro, MI 48723 Suzanne Tuttila, Executive Secretary 401 Harvest Trail, Midlothian , TX 76065 Ph: 517-490-7736 michholstein1@gmail.com Michigan Jersey Cattle Club Brent Moyer, President Mary Costigan, Vice President Carrie Delong, Secretary Elizabeth Rupprecht, Treasurer

NATIONAL HOLSTEIN CONVENTION FEATURED FARMS: Hidden Hills Dairy...................................................................................................6 Yonkman Farms.......................................................................................................7 GLRDC Yields Knowledge & Awards.................................................................... 10 & 11 MJHA Invites Everyone to Dinner ...................................................................................12

989-553-4333 616-430-1258 810-614-4025 989-640-6913

Holstein Association USA Phone: 1-800-952-5200 1 Holstein Place, Brattleboro, VT 05302 Michigan and Indiana Representative Max Dunseth 278 S. Sprague, Coldwater, MI 49036 Cell: 269-251-0232 Michigan Upper Peninsula Representative Mandi Ramsburg De Pere, WI • 920-530-5023 mramsburg@holstein.com 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 $15.00 / year.

table of contents

World Jersey Conference Comes to USA.........................................................................12 From the Jersey Desk..........................................................................................................13 In Memoriam.......................................................................................................................14 From the Holstein President’s Pen....................................................................................15 Sonny Perdue Comes to Michigan....................................................................................15 Notes From the Field..........................................................................................................16 Michigan Junior Holstein News........................................................................................17 On the National Front........................................................................................................20 Great Lakes Spring Show..............................................................................................22-24 One More Thing..................................................................................................................25 Calendar of Events..............................................................................................................26 Advertiser Directory...........................................................................................................26 Spring 2018

Hidden Hills Dairy:

One Step at a Time

By Bev Berens It’s easy to be thankful and celebrate when things are going well. It’s much harder when life, the dairy industry and family health matters come hard and fast. Hidden Hills Dairy and the Brunink family have seen their share of life’s hardships this year, but also have reasons to celebrate and be thankful. Brian Brunink was honored as Michigan Holstein Association’s Master Breeder for 2017, receiving his award during the state’s annual meeting on February 10th in Mt. Pleasant. The farm was also selected as a farm tour stop for the National Holstein Convention. Both are reason to celebrate and be thankful for recognition by industry peers. Last fall, Brian had a major stroke, one which left him physically starting over--- relearning things that were once done without a second thought. Walking. Talking. Eating. “It was easier to learn to walk when I was two,” Brian said, after a long and deliberate walk to the podium as he 6

received his Master Breeder Award. “I wouldn’t be here, I wouldn’t be walking if it wasn’t for my wife.” As Brian slowly walked back to his seat, the entire room filled with applause as he received not only the coveted Master Breeder award, but a standing ovation. One foot in front of the next, one step at a time. His attitude and determination for recovery have many parallels to hard times in the dairy industry. Hidden Hills Dairy is an LLC between Brian and his brother Phil. Brian’s son, Tony, has also joined the farm. Brian and his wife Tarin have seven children, Tony, Kristi, Bridgett, Brittany, DeNay, Tossey and Rylee. Phil and his wife, Carol have four children, Chad, Jess, Betsy and Abbie. There are eighteen employees including ownership partners. The Bruninks milk 1095 cows with a 27,662-pound RHA, 3.7% Fat and 3.1% Protein. The herd is about 50 percent registered and the remainder are ID’d. Brian has always enjoyed the challenge of breeding great cows or bulls and appreciates having had good cow families with which to work. He has bred or

Photo by Dale Brinks

developed twenty-seven Excellent cows and three multiple E cows, along with 200 VG, 25 Dams of Merit and 43 Elite cows. Mara-Thone RC Martha (5E93) is a special favorite with a lifetime production of 418,143 pounds of milk. Several bulls have come from Hidden Hills genetics including B-HiddenHills Mark-O-Polo, Marathon BW Marshall, B-HiddenHills Marmax and B-HiddenHills Plan. Marshall is one of the favorites he currently uses in the herd. In mating selections using Select Mating Service (SMS), Brian focuses on mid-sized cows with good production, strong udders and a correct set of feet and legs. He tries to flush high genomic cows to keep up with industry trends. In December 2016, fifteen B-HiddenHills cows were in the top 10,000 for CTPI, eight of which were on the Locator List. “I don’t make the great cows,” Brian said. “I just give them a chance to be great.” The Brunink family built a new dairy a few years ago, bringing together the entire milking herd from two lo-

Continued on Page 8 Spring 2018

Yonkman Dairy:

Where Cow Comfort is King

The Yonkmans are excited to be a part of the National Holstein Convention Host Day Tours. From Left: Lucas Yonkman, Molly Pluger, BJ Pluger, Sammy Pluger, Lia Pluger, Miley Pluger, Denise and Sam Yonkman. Photo courtesy of DeLaval

By Bev Berens The Yonkman family is looking forward to National Holstein Convention tour busses pulling into the yard in June. “I am nervous, but I’m excited,” said herdsperson, Molly Pluger. Molly is the third-generation operator of Yonkman Dairy. She and her husband BJ, brother Lucas and parents Sam and Denise are all active operators of the 770 registered Holstein herd. Another brother Ryan, works as a milk analyst for the Chicago Board of Trade and assists the farm in marketing and contracting their milk. Molly and BJ have three children, who Molly hopes will someday take the baton, just as she and her brothers have done. Sam and Denise have another daughter---Erin--who is not involved in the farm. In 2016, Yonkman Dairy installed a new De Laval 40 stall rotary parlor with Spring 2018

a TSR robot for post dipping. “We built the parlor with robots to increase our parlor efficiency,” Molly said. “We went from milking eleven hours two times a day to milking three times a day with down time and hired no extra help. The cows are so comfortable on the rotary; they really enjoy being milked.” Sam Yonkman developed a love for good cattle and an interest in genetics as a young man. His parents encouraged him to register and buy better cows into the herd. Since the farm began, slow and steady internal growth has moved the farm into a growing herd size and new challenges. Efficiency and cow comfort are primary herd goals. Modern free stall barns were designed and built to provide the cattle with maximum cow comfort. The new parlor nailed the quest for efficient milk harvest but has yet to arrive at its

1400 head peak capacity. “We have to be as efficient as we can, it is just the way things are today,” Molly added. Manure handling is the only field operation where some custom help is needed. “We try to be self-sufficient in everything; we like it done right and in order to have efficiency within the barn, we have to put up really good crops and we do that,” Pluger added. Molly has a few cow families she has been pleased to develop and contribute outstanding traits throughout the herd. One of those is 116 Apptitude EX91. She produced 39,969M on her last 305-day lactation. She has produced all daughters that have consistently transmitted her superior genetics spreading over three generations of Excellent cows including 463 Frosty EX-91 and Frosty’s daughter, 1273 Shot EX-90 who Continued on Page 8 7

Hidden Hills Dairy: One Step at a Time

Brian Brunink received the MHA Master Breeder award with his family by his side. From Left: Tony Brunink, Bridgett Brunink, Brian Brunink, Tarin Brunink, Brittany Brunink, Sherry Meyer, Kristi Brunink. Photo by Melissa Hart

cations. “We built a double-20 parallel parlor with a sand lane and vacuum sys-

tem,” Brian said. “It works pretty well, and we recycle

Continued From Page 6 about seventy percent of our sand.” The new facility was built to capitalize on efficiency. They designed their own palpation rail and special needs pens because they couldn’t find a design to their liking or to best fit their needs. All the cows are worked through the sort-gate. “We don’t lock up a hundred cows just to breed three,” Brian said. The Brunink family was honored with the invitation to host a National Holstein Convention tour. “We will be getting things ready and we have a group of cows selected that we want to sort out to spotlight,” Brian said. “We hope the visitors see that we have a good bunch of cows with good feet and legs and good udders, and that they are well taken care of.” “We just try to do the right thing most of the time. It doesn’t always work out but most of the time it does.”

Yonkman Dairy: Where Cow Comfort is King

Continued From Page 7 has seen some show ring success. “Another cow we particularly like is our three-year-old 2068-Watson VG88,” Pluger said. “She is ranked among the top 10,000 CTPI cows in the USA and won her class at the District VII show as a two-year-old.” “We value our high component, good milking and well put together cows,” Molly said. Those achievements have been made through many years of sound selection with the support of the North Star Select Sires team. The herd averages 91 pounds of milk per cow with 3.9 percent butter fat and 3.1 percent protein. Currently, their favorite bulls include Being a Defender and Jedi. “We are honored to be asked to show off our herd and the work and investment we’ve put into it,” Molly said. “I think people will see that we are focusing on cows and genetics and in the long run, it pays. You only have one spot in the barn for a cow and you want that 8

spot filled with a functional animal, and it’s a bonus that they are good looking besides. I think the guests will see that we take really good care of our cows.” Molly is also eager to show off her hometown of McBain to dairy farmers

from across the U.S. “We have a group of great farmers in the area. We are always trying to do a better job; we learn all the time. They are farms that are always moving forward, and nobody is at a dead end.”

Efficiency and cow comfort are primary herd goals at Yonkmans and they both increased in 2016 when they built a 40 stall carousel parlor. Photo courtesy of DeLaval Spring 2018

Sisters Win the Outstanding Young Breeder Award

Sherry Meyer (left) presented the Outstanding Young Breeder Award to sisters, Tera Baker (right) and Greta Koebel (not pictured). Photo by Melissa Hart The Wayne Webster Memorial Outstanding Young Breeder award was presented to sisters, Greta Koebel and Tera Baker at the 2018 annual meeting of the Michigan Holstein Association in Mt. Pleasant on February 10th. While Greta wasn’t able to be at the meeting, Tera was present to receive the award and remarked, “We’re way too young to be getting this award but we are very appreciative of those who supported both Greta and me for this award.” Tera continued, “Thank you to all of those who have supported us over the years, it certainly has meant a lot and has definitely shaped our futures as we move forward with developing our herd at our new farmstead in Illinois. Greta and Tera were part of Tri-Koebel Holsteins from the day they were born. They grew up earning calves by working on the farm and by the time Spring 2018

they were teenagers they were buying their own cattle to breed, develop and merchandise. The tanbark trail was a familiar route for Greta and Tera and each year they garnered their share of champion banners, awards, Junior All-Michigan and Junior All-American nominations. Building a reputation for quality show cattle they were also active leaders in Holstein junior activities on the state and national level and both were chosen as Holstein USA Distinguished Junior Members. Both sisters graduated from Michigan State University earning bachelor’s degrees in Agri-Business Management where they were also active in the MSU Dairy Club and on the judging teams. After graduation, Greta returned to the farm to manage the dairy and Tera took a position with a farm animal pharma-

ceutical company and then as a sales manager with DigiStar. In December their parents sold their cattle and Greta moved her herd to Illinois where she and her partner, Kyle Aves are running their own farm. Tera sold most of her cattle but retained ownership of a select few, moving them to Greta’s new location. They will continue breeding Registered Holsteins under the Tri-Koebel prefix. The Tri-Koebel motto is Mastering the Art of Black and White and the girls developed a keen eye for breeding show type cattle early on in their career. Although they both always gravitated toward show ring style, as they grew into adulthood they have learned to appreciate that a good show cow should reflect function type and longevity. Their goal is to continue in the Registered Holstein business building upon the foundation laid on the family farm. Over the years they have earned many All-American nominations and sold cattle that have earned nominations for their new owners. Most recently, Tri-Koebel A Wildcard was the Junior champion of the 2016 Grand National Junior Show and the Junior champion of the Fort Worth Livestock Show for the Stookey and Steinberger families. Tri-Koebel Manistee-ET was the first Junior Yearling and Reserve Junior Champion of the 2017 Mexican national Show. They have also enjoyed their share of success in the Red and White show ring as well. Ms Tri-Koebel Glamour Red-ET she was nominated All-American in every lactation and for the 2017 show season, Glamour herself was nominated All-American 5 year old and she and her daughter MS Tri-Koebel O-Glamour were Honorable Mention All-American Daughter and Dam. 9

Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference Yields Knowledge and Awards

From Left: Tom Oesch, Jr., Annie Oesch-Link and Fred Oesch, accepted the MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year Award on behalf of the entire Oesch family from Swiss Lane Farm at the recent GLRDC held in Mt. Pleasant. Photo by Melissa Hart

from the cow’s perspective. The Department of Animal Science of Michigan State University presented the MSU Dairy Farmer of the Year award to the Oesch Family of Swiss Lane Farms of Alto. Swiss Lane Farm consists of six family partners of the Oesch Family. The senior partners are brothers Fred, Jeff and Tom Oesch with the next generation, brothers Tom and Matt Oesch and their cousin Annie Oesch-Link. Management of any farm is crucial for long-term success and Swiss Lane Farm may not have found the special sauce yet but they are striving for a smooth transition from the third to the fourth generation of the family farm. “Carrying on the tradition that our family has been a part of for 103 years legacy is important to us,” Annie Oesch-Link said. When the fourth generation came back to the farm, the herd size increased and presently they have a robotic facility milking 500 cows and a double sixteen parlor where 2,200 cows

By Melissa Hart Mt. Pleasant, MI -- The Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference (GLRDC) was held on February 8-10th in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, where dairy management was the focus, dairy producers were honored and the Michigan Holstein Association met for their annual meeting. Economists, financial experts and market analysts took their turn at helping dairymen know what they can do to improve efficiency and their bottom

line in the bearish market economy. The technology side of the conference highlighted a robotic milking panel discussion, using genomics as a management tool, labor regulations and legal requirements and maternity pen design

Ike Hunt (right) honors Steve Reed (left) as he retires from the MHA Board of Directors. Photo by Melissa Hart

All Michigan Award winners were presented at the MHA meeting. Those present to receive their awards were: (from left) Kelly Raterink, Malissa Reed, Jess Jakubik, Eric Moser, Sherry Meyer, Patty Hyde and Ike Hunt. Photo by Melissa Hart

Spring 2018

Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference Yields Knowledge and Awards

Newly elected MHA President Tim Baker (right) honors retiring president Ike Hunt and thanks him for his service to the association. Photo by Melissa Hart

are milked. The work force consists of 52 employees and they grow 5,000 acres of corn, soybeans, hay, wheat and cover crops. Swiss Lane Farm is guided by six core values that were developed and refined over the years. These values encompass the passion, productivity and the very essence of four generations of the Oesch family. The United Dairy Industry of Michigan presented their Excellence in Dairy Promotion award to Bill and Carolyn Shuler of Baroda, Michigan. The Shulers transformed their farm into a state of the art cow comfort pal-

The Shulers were awarded the Excellence in Dairy Promotion. From left: Sharon Toth, Executive Director for UDIM, Bill Shuler, Carolyn Shuler, Jim Reid, Board Chair of UDIM. Photo by Melissa Hart

ace where they welcome visitors during the tourist season with their farm nestled in the heart of wine country in southwest Michigan. The MSU Dairy judging teams were honored for their accomplishments in 2017 and a silent auction was held to benefit the Michigan Dairy Ambassador Program. The Michigan Holstein Association annual meeting was held where they

The Progressive Breeders Registry award winners were announced and those present were: (from left) Tim Baker of Star Summit Farm, Janet Molhoek of End Road Farm, Darwin Sneller of Starward Farm, and Max Dunseth, HAUSA Rep. Photo by Melissa Hart 11 Spring 2018

presented several awards and tended to the business of the association gearing up to host the National Holstein Convention in Traverse City. The Master Breeder Award was presented to Brian Brunink of Hidden Hills Dairy while the Wayne Webster Memorial Outstanding Young Breeder award was presented to Greta Koebel and Tera Baker of Tri-Koebel Holsteins.

The award winners for the Progressive Genetics Herd were recognized. Those present were: (from left) Brian Brunink of Hidden Hills Dairy, Janet Molhoek of End Road Farm, Ike Hunt of Green Meadow Farms, Brent Moyer of Brenhaven Farm, Rodney Daniels of W-R-L Daniels Farm, and Max Dunseth HAUSA Rep. Photo by Melissa Hart Spring 2018 11

21st International Conference of the World Jersey Cattle Bureau

The United States of America—home of the largest and fastest-growing population of Jersey cattle in the world—hosts the 21st International Conference of the World Jersey Cattle Bureau in conjunction with the 150th Anniversary of the American Jersey Cattle Association. The Breed for the 21st Century is the organizing theme for the 21st Conference, bringing into focus the opportunities for Jersey breed expansion that exist across the globe and sharing information on the key advances in genomics, management, and marketing that can make those opportunities into realities. Speakers for the International Conference include Larry Schirm, who brings a lifetime of Jersey experience to his role as ABS Global Key Account Manager; Dr. Dennis Saviano, Virginia C. Meredith Professor of Nutrition Policy at Purdue University; Dr. Francis Fluharty, Research Professor, The Ohio State University; and Andrew Le Gallais, Chairman of the Jersey Milk Marketing Board. A three week tour has been organized with your choice of two pre-conference tours: Tour A, June 19-23, arriving in San Francisco, California then on to Hilmar, or Tour B, June 18-23, landing in Portland, Oregon to visit herds in the Willamette Valley and Tillamook; Main Conference, an eight-day program that begins with arrival at John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) on June 23 and travels through the State of Ohio to arrive in Canton for the WJCB International Conference and the AJCA-NAJ Annual Meetings, hosted by the Ohio Jersey Breeders Association, and concluding the evening of June 30 12

with the WJCB President’s Gala Banquet; and Post-Conference Tour starting in Chicago on July 1 and traveling through southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois to end back in Chicago for departure on July 8. During the Main Conference week, a program track will be organized spe-

cifically for attendees under the age of 36. The program and speakers for this World Young Jersey Breeders Congress will be tailored to attendee interests determined by survey. Closing date for bookings is Friday, March 30, 2018. Should you have questions about this program, please address them to Dr. Cherie Bayer (cbayer@ usjersey.com). Questions about the tours and airline transportation can be addressed to Ms. Carol Bauer (harvestt@sbcglobal.org), or your participating travel agent. The 21st International Conference is where you will share ideas, learn about the advances in genomics, management and marketing and network with Jersey owners expected from 20 countries.

MJHA Invites Everyone to Dinner at the Spring Sale By Kristen Burkhardt The Michigan Junior Holstein Association invites everyone to a dinner event at the conclusion of the Spartan Spectacular and Michigan Holstein Spring Foundation Sale on March 23rd at the MSU Livestock Pavilion in East Lansing. While this event is sponsored by the MJHA, Mooville and the Michigan Dairy Cattle News, this is not just for juniors, everyone is invited to join us for dinner. Dinner will be served, and Dann Brady from Ferme Blondin of Ontario Canada will be the featured speaker as he discusses sales and marketing, providing an opportunity for the everyone to come together and enjoy a great presentation. Ferme Blondin is a global player in the dairy industry and Brady will answer questions about their merchandising and breeding program. This is a great opportunity for networking and fellowship for our Michigan dairy community. Join us for appetizers, dinner, and dessert on March 23rd. We hope to see you all there! Spring 2018

From the Jersey Desk

Michigan Jersey Cattle Club Hello All As this reaches everyone, my hopes of winter coming to a close should be a reality. It seems that Michigan winters are dragging out longer and longer each year, which means the anticipation of spring is a very welcoming thought. As we all work through the daily grind of producing “mother nature’s most wholesome” product, I hope that you all can find the time and energy to attend The Great Lakes Spring Show, either as a spectator or an exhibitor. Michigan breeders should be proud of the quality that I see come out year after year. While our numbers may dwindle our quality is going up. I think you all deserve a huge pat on the back for striving to breed better Jerseys! The board is continuing discussions on a sale. We are in need of volunteers to be sale chairs, as Mary Costigan and myself, have decided to step down, with the time constraints on our daily life on the farm and as our young families have become more involved. We would like to thank you for your support

over the past few years and if anyone is interested in serving as sale chair please contact one of us. There are many exciting things coming up in the near future here in Michigan and the surrounding areas. Our neighboring state of Ohio is hosting the National Jersey Convention in Canton, Ohio June 27-30 at Embassy Suites. During the week of June 27-July 3 Michigan Holstein Association is hosting the National Holstein Convention, in Traverse City. Finally, our All Michigan Jersey show will be held during the third full week of July at the Michigan State Livestock Pavilion. I hope to see you all at one of these functions this coming summer. Until Next Time,

Brent Moyer President MJCC 989-553-4333

Buell’s Bovines Drew, Deanne, Skylar & Stoney Buell

7075 Lewis Ave. • Temperance, MI 48182

Drew: 734-693-1408 • Deanne: 734-693-3689

Matt, Sarah & Andi Dillon

Registered Holsteins & Brown Swiss

4300 Jerome Road • North Adams, MI 49262

(517) 398-1521

poseycreekfarms@gmail.com Spring 2018

In Memoriam

James Gottlieb Brenner June 7, 1950 ~ February 11, 2018

James Gottlieb Brenner, 67, of Shelbyville, MI passed away Sunday, February 11, 2018 at his home. Born June 7, 1950 in Plainwell, he was the son of the late Raymond George and Norma Josephine (Grinage) Brenner and was the husband of Debra Ann (Weick) Brenner. James was a lifetime member of St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Hopkins. He served as the Martin Township Board for over thirty years where he had been a strong advocate for the Martin Fire Department.

adored spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. In addition to his wife of forty-one years, James is survived by his children, Michelle (Joshua) Douglas, Melanie Brenner (Lonnie Young), Travis (Kathryn) Brenner and Tyler Brenner; his siblings, Jan (Steve) Johnson, Julie Spencer, Joy Brenner (Joe Henry) and Ray (Sarah) Brenner, his grandchildren, Marek Douglas Meara Douglas and Olive Brenner; and his father-in-law Robert Weick.

James was a proud dairy farmer having earned many awards and recognitions for the Registered Holstein herd that he and his father grew and developed. After selling the farm, he started a cattle trucking business which he successfully operated for 20 years, turning it over to his youngest son just before his passing. He was an avid hunter and especially enjoyed hunting trips out west with his father, and up north with his father-in-law and brothersin-law. He was known by all to be a man of the highest integrity, work ethic, generosity, and fairness, who always appreciated a good story. He loved watching Michigan football and the Detroit Tigers. Above all else, James

Spring 2018

From the President’s Pen

Michigan Holstein Association With milk prices as they are, it’s not easy being a dairy farmer at the moment. Still, I feel fortunate to be in good company. Our association is made up of an amazingly skilled group of individuals plus I have faith we can weather the upcoming season. I would like to say ‘thank you’ to everyone who voted to make me president at the annual meeting. I appreciate your support and look forward to serving on the Board these next couple years. For those of you who may not know me, my name is Tim Baker and I own Star-Summit Farm. My wife, Jennifer and I have been married for over 20 years. We live on the west side of Michigan and have three childrenGerrit, Jack and Elise. Our children are very active in sports, yet they still make time to help out with chores on the farm. For that I am very grateful. This past year, Gerrit has been enrolled at MSU, studying Dairy Management in the Ag Tech Program. This year is bound to be a busy one for the Michigan Holstein Association. As spring approaches, I know how eager we can be to get into the fields, but please don’t forget to mark your calendars for the upcoming Michigan Spring Foundation Sale and Spring Show. Let’s use this opportunity to not only support one another but to also showcase the quality Holsteins bred and devel-

Spring 2018

oped in Michigan. Lastly, I would like to mention that this is the year in which our Association will host the National Holstein Convention. Much planning has gone (and still is going) into this event. It will be held at the Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City. I encourage each and every one of you to attend. It most cer-

tainly will be an excellent opportunity to connect with dairymen from all over the United States.

Tim

Tim Baker President Michigan Holstein Association

MMPA Leader Relays Dairy Concerns to Ag Secretary

MMPA President Ken Nobis met with USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue and others to discuss dairy policy as Perdue made a recent tour around the state In a round table discussion with Michigan ag stakeholders, Nobis communicated his concerns about the dairy industry. He thanked Perdue for

the work on getting one percent flavored milk back in the school systems and for dealing with the Canadian milk market, “I want to thank you for keeping the target on the backs of the Canadians to get rid of their class seven product that has done nothing but lower our milk prices here in the state.” Nobis also discussed dairy policy and asked for any help the Secretary could offer in improving the Margin Protection Program (MPP) in the disaster bill pending in Congress. Nobis noted, “We are very happy with what the House of Representatives has done to take the cap off the LGM program and we are also interested in Senator Leahy’s changes to the MPP.”

Notes From the Field

Max’s Memo Happy New Year from your friends at Holstein Association USA! Holstein Association USA members set an all-time record by officially identifying 742,910 Holsteins in 2017. This is an increase of eight percent or 52,357 over the previous record set in 2016. Registrations totaled 384,181 head, up 6,876 from 2016. Additionally, there were 358,729 animals identified through the Association’s Basic ID program, an increase of 45,481. The Basic ID program is a stepping stone to full registry status. Registration is now open for the Holstein Association USA 2018 Judges Conference, to be held on Thursday, April 26, in Madison, Wisconsin, in conjunction with the Midwest Spring National Holstein Show. The conference includes judging classes as well as cow-side classroom sessions. Participants will judge six high-quality Holstein classes, one of which will be assigned for oral reasons. To register online, visit: www. holsteinusa.com/shows/judges_preregister.

html. Congratulations to Daniel Kitchen of Danville, Pennsylvania, the winner of the National Judi Collinsworth Outstanding Junior Exhibitor Award. Kitchen is the 20-year-old son of Randall and Patricia Kitchen, and is working towards his degree in animal science at the Pennsylvania State University. Upon graduation, Kitchen plans to return to the family farm and pursue a career as a dairy nutritionist. Annual individual award applications that recognize notable members, breeders and friends of the Association are now available on our website. The applications for the Distinguished Young Holstein Breeder Award, Elite Breeder Award, and Distinguished Leadership Award may be downloaded on our website, www.holsteinusa. com. The applications are due in the Brattleboro office by February 26, 2018. Holstein Association USA held its 2018 Member Update Meeting on Saturday, February 24th at the Delaware County Fair-

grounds in Manchester, Iowa. The presentations are available on the Holstein USA website and YouTube for all that were unable to attend. As always, don’t hesitate to call us if you’re interested in learning more about Holstein programs that can help save you time and money, such as Holstein COMPLETE, EASY ID for registrations, and official Holstein Tag ID. If you would like on-farm assistance, feel free to contact Max Dunseth at 269-251-0232 and Mandi Ramsburg at 920-530-5023. Sincerely,

Max Dunseth Max Dunseth Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA 269-251-0232 Mandi Ramsburg Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA Upper Peninsula of Michigan 920-530-5023

Spring 2018

Michigan Junior Holstein News

From Your President As we dive into the new year, the Michigan Junior Holstein Board has been keeping busy! We look forward to the coming year full of planning and execution. Recently, MJHA hosted our very first â€œpre-conventionâ€? workshop which was a huge success! Throughout the morning on February 10th in Mt. Pleasant in conjunction with the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference, we promoted the 2018 National Holstein Convention, practiced contests such as Dairy Jeopardy and Prepared Public Speaking, and also had numerous youth sign up for the convention. This fun-filled day was a great opportunity to network with the juniors in our state about the convention. At the 2018 Michigan Spring Sale, on Friday, March 23rd, each junior board member will be donating a basket that will be sold throughout the sale. The proceeds from these baskets will go towards supporting the youth that will be attending the

Spring 2018

convention this summer. In addition, Michigan Junior Holstein Association offers hands-on fitting and showmanship clinics to prepare our youth for the show season which is approaching quickly. If you are interested in having board members come to your county, do not hesitate to contact me at Burkhardt.k43@gmail.com. If any youth are interested in competing in any contests at the 2018 National Holstein Convention please contact me as soon as possible, spots are filling up quickly! The following are contests that juniors can participate in: Dairy Jeopardy, Quiz Bowl, Prepared Public Speaking, Digital Scrapbook, Scrapbook, State Banner, and the Tri-Fold Display. We are looking forward to the coming months and continuing to provide Michigan youth with opportunities that will get them involved within the dairy industry. Thank you for your time,

Kristen Burkhardt burkhardt.k43@gmail.com

PRESTIGE-GEN AT AMERICA-ET EX-90 with EX MAM

Look for her daughters at the Great Lakes Spring Show! Re-Jak DB Aurora • Fresh Junior 2 Year Old Re-Jak DB Ariel-ET • Winter Yearling • 5th place heifer in the Winter Calf class at NAILE. *Co-owned with Jess Jakubik

Being sold in the Michigan Foundation Sale: Winterfield Arm Tatiana *RC • Fresh Armani Senior 2 Year Old out of an 83 pt. Redburst, followed by 11 generations of EX.

Being sold in the Spartan Spectacular Sale: RDF Colton Peanut Butter • Full-aged Jersey Winter Yearling

989.277.2078 • sjreed57@msn.com

SELLING MARCH 23, 2018 at the Michigan Spring Foundation Sale

is WOODLAWN DUNDEE DAPHNE’s granddaughter, STARWARD BEEMER DAKOTA

Beemer x Armani x Daphne! • born 6/1/2017

with STARWARD MOGUL VIV

Calving in at 1-10, her first test impresses! 38DIM 78.5M 3.8F 2.9P 0.1SCS Out of an 86pt Dempsey, fresh and looking to add points in May. Backed by 3 generations of VG dams. 4-07 2 303 29040 3.5 1004 3.2 921

Cybil Fisher photo • Design Kristy Roose

Spring 2018

BAA 108.4% • PBR 27 Years • RHA DHI 28,000M 1080F 900P Walter Gremel: 989-883-3772 • 9393 Canboro Rd., Sebewaing, MI 48759 Darwin & Kathy Sneller: 989-883-3716 • Eric & Cassie Sneller: 517-420-6840 • 8677 Kilmanagh Rd., Sebewaing, MI 48759

On the National Front As we near the end of winter, we can start hoping for more comfortable temperatures that will help us forget about the current sub-zero temps, ice and accumulating snowfall. Many states have held their state conventions by now and have recognized outstanding individuals for their amazing accomplishments. Congratulations to everyone! Holstein USA set a new record for the number of registrations and basic ID’s; the old record went back to 2016. Holstein enthusiasm is alive and well! The “State of the Association” report were first shared with the Holstein membership at the Iowa state meeting in February. The entire report can be viewed on the Holstein USA website. It is divided into several segments that can be viewed at your own time and leisure. Holstein USA was the subject of a doc-

umentary that aired on RFD-TV. “Holstein America: A Tribute to the National Dairy Farmers” was shown several different times in February. Dairy farmers across the country proved to be excellent spokesmen for the dairy industry and for Holstein USA in particular. A common theme was how Holstein USA was a contributing factor in their successful enterprises. It spoke of the hard work and dedication of their families in continuing to the improve the image and genetics of the Holstein cow. You can view this documentary on the Holstein USA website. Holstein Foundation recently graduated 51 from the YDLI Class 10. We encourage all young dairy famers to consider being part of this educational opportunity. Applications for Class 11 are due on August 1, 2018. The Judges Conference will be held in

Madison, WI, on April 26th as part of the Spring Show. Attendance is required once every five years for everyone who wishes to be on the National or Qualified Judge List. After attending the conference, one must complete an application due to Holstein USA in August 2018. The 2019 Judging Conference ill be held in Columbus, Ohio. As your national directors, we have all enjoyed visiting with you as you meet with fellow dairy farmers, family, and business associates. Hope to see many of you at the 2018 National Holstein Convention to be held in Michigan June 29th – July 3rd. As always, feel free to contact us with your concerns or new ideas for improving Holstein USA. -Steve Moff, Paul Buhr, Mark Kerndt, Dale Drendel, Boyd Schaufelberger and Corey Geiger, your HAUSA Directors

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SATURDAY • MARCH 24 8:30 a.m ....... Showmanship (Age as of day of show) Division 1: 8-12 • Division 2: 13-15 • Division 3: 16 & over

9:00 a.m. ...... Great Lakes Spring Holstein Show Michigan Jersey Spring Show-Alternating classes Judge: Leo Hoff, Jr.-Windthorst, TX

ONLY ONE EXHIBITOR PER ENTRY FORM More Entry Forms are Availabe from the MHA Office call: 517-490-7736 (Copies May Be Made of this Entry Form) Holstein and Jersey show exhibitor please use the same entry form. Local Hotel: Red Roof Inn, 3615 Dunckel Rd., Lansing, MI 48910 (800-RED-ROOF or 517-332-2575) MAIL ALL ENTRIES AND FEES FOR THE GREAT LAKES SPRING HOLSTEIN SHOW and the MICHIGAN SPRING JERSEY SHOW. Michigan Holstein Association 401 Harvest Trail, MIdlothian, TX 76065• Phone: 517-490-7736 Checks made payable to: Michigan Holstein Association Entries are due March 16, 2018. • Late Entries Close at 4:00 p.m., March 23, 2018

Check In Cattle may move on Tuesday, March 20 after 6 pm. Remember to have your RFID tags in place before you leave your farm. Check in for show will be... Thursday, March 22 from Noon-4 p.m. Late check-in will be on Friday, at the immediate conclusion of sale. Additions, deletions and class changes must be made by 4:00 pm on March 23. There is no entry fee for sale animals. If you purchase cattle from the Foundation Sale or Spartan Spactacular and want to exhibit, you must enter your animal by or at the conclusion of the sale on Friday, March 23. NO EXCEPTIONS.

EXHIBITOR

HOLSTEIN

ENTRIES DUE MARCH 16, 2018

ADDRESS

CITY STATE & ZIP

__________ x $25/entry = ___________

No. of Late* Entries

__________ x $50/entry = ___________

*After March 16, 2018

No. of Extra 5Ft.

JERSEY

No. of Entries

FAX

PHONE

__________ x $11/5 feet = ___________

___________ x $25/entry =

_________

No. of Late* Entries ___________ x $50/entry =

_________

*After March 16, 2018

No. of Extra 5Ft.

___________x $11/5 feet =

_________

DATE

SIGNATURE

Open Show

No. of Entries

Junior Show

Total Due BIRTHDATE OF JUNIOR

Spring 2018

SATURDAY • MARCH 24 8:30 a.m ....... Showmanship (Age as of day of show) Division 1: 8-12 • Division 2: 13-15 • Division 3: 16 & over

9:00 a.m. ...... Great Lakes Spring Holstein Show Michigan Jersey Spring Show-Alternating classes Judge: Leo Hoff, Jr.-Windthorst, TX 1. ELIGIBILITY: All animals exhibited at shows must be accompanied by the registration certificate; no photostatic copies will be accepted. All animals must be registered by the Holstein Association of America or the Holstein Association of Canada or the American Jersey Cattle Association. Ownership shall be established by the name on the certificate of registry or the presentation of the certificate of registry along with a signed and completed transfer and fee, which will be forwarded to the respective association. Each Holstein animal must be at least 87%RHA. 2. JUNIOR MEMBERS: Holstein Junior members must have project animals registered in their name and they must show their animal, or have another junior member show their animal to compete in the junior division and to qualify for the junior ribbons in the class. Holstein Show Ownership - Animals two years and over must be prior to January first of the year shown. Ownership of animals less than two years old must be prior to June first of the year shown. All animals exhibited in showmanship must be owned by the junior showperson. 3. YOUTH CLASSES: Youth classes include 1,2,3,4,5,6,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17 and 18. The Junior and Reserve Junior Champion will be selected from the first and second place winner from classes: 1,2,3,4,5, and 6. The Intermediate and Reserve Intermediate Champion will be selected from the first and second place winners from classes 8,9,10,11 and 12. Senior and Reserve Senior Champion will be selected from the first and second place winners from classes 13,14,15,16,17 and 18. Grand and Reserve Grand Champion will be selected from the Junior, Intermediate and Senior Champions. 4. HE ALTH CERTIFICATES: Michigan official Health Rules must be observed. All cattle exhibited must be free of contagious and infectious disease including extensive ringworm, scab, mange, and warts. Cattle under quarantine are not eligible for exhibition. All decisions regarding health of any animals shall be made by the official veterinarian and implemented by the show chairman. ALL CATTLE MUST HAVE AN OFFICIAL RFID TAG. 5. DHI RECORDS: It shall be the responsibility of each exhibitor to make available all registrations, health or DHI sheets. 6. SHOW AUTHORITY: The Show Committee, Michigan Holstein Association and the Michigan Jersey Cattle Club, its agents reserve the final and absolute right to interpret the rules and regulations of the show and will settle all matters in connection with the show. 7. EXHIBITORS: All show people are encouraged to display a standard exhibitors card harness with class number clearly visible, and are encouraged to wear white pants/jeans or skirt. 8. POINT SYSTEM: The point system for determining Premier Breeder and Premier Exhibitor Awards shall be as follows: Placing 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th Jr. Females, Dry Cows 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Sr. Females 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 9. PREMIER BREEDER AWARD: The Premier Breeder award is presented to the breeder of no more than 6 animals, all shown in the single classes, which total the most points. No entry is required and the winner need not be an exhibitor at the show nor the owner of the point-winning animals. BREEDER DEFINED: The owner of the dam at the time of service shall be considered the breeder. Where animals are registered in the names of different members of a family residing on one farm and where the herd is one unit, all animals shall be considered bred by that unit. 10. PREMIER EXHIBITOR AWARD: The Premier Exhibitor award is presented to the exhibitor of no more than six animals. all shown in the single classes, which total the most points. EXHIBIT OR DEFIN ED: The exhibitor must be the owner or member of a partnership owning the animal. Where animals are registered in the names of different members of a family residing on one farm and where the herd is one unit, all animal may be considered exhibited by that unit. 11. SUBSTITUTIONS: Substitutions may be made both in and out of respective classes. Changes must be made before the close of entries. 12. FIRST BRED AND OWNE D: First place bred and owned animals will be recognized for the highest placing animal bred and owned by the exhibitor, as determined by registration certificate. Breeder is to be determined as the owner of the dam at the time of service; where a herd is registered in the names of different members of a family residing on one farm, where the herd is one unit and everyone is using the same prefix, all entries may be considered as Bred and Owned by Exhibitor. 13. DRY COWS: Entries in dry cow classes must have produced a live calf within 18 months or prove to be with calf. A cow shown dry must have been reported dry on DHI records or any cow that was last fresh 280 days or more, prior to the date of the show, may be shown at the option of the exhibitor in either the dry or milking cow class. The DHI sheet must accompany animals to be shown in the dry cow classes.

Please note: Anyone who owes the Michigan Holstein Association or the Michigan Dairy Cattle News more that $100 and is over 90 days delinquent will not be able to show in any state sponsored show including the Great Lakes Spring Show. Any person and/or immediate family member of a person who owes the Michigan Jersey Cattle Club or the Michigan Dairy Cattle News more than $50 and is over 90 days delinquent will not be able to show in any state sponsored show including the Michigan Jersey Show. The debt must be paid by close of entries.

23 Spring 2018

1- WINTER HEIFER CALF-born after November 30, 2017 and before March 1, 2018. 2- FALL HEIFER CALF- Born after August 31, 2017 and before December 1, 2017. 3- SUMMER YEARLING HEIFER- born after May 31, 2017 and before September 1, 2017. 4- SPRING YEARLING HEIFER- born after February 28, 2017 and before June 1, 2017. 5- WINTER YEARLING HEIFER- born after November 30, 2016 and before March 1, 2017. 6- FALL YEARLING HEIFER- born after August 31, 2016 and before December 1, 2016. **A- JU NIOR AND RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION - JUNIOR SHOW: from the calf and yearling classes. First and second place animals will be considered. **B- JUNIOR AND RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION- OPEN SHOW: from the calf and yearling classes, first and second place animals will be considered. 7- JUNIOR BEST THREE FEMALES- from the calf and yearling classes, all must be bred and at least one owned by exhibitor. 8- DRY COW 9- NON-LACTATING JR TWO YR OLD- Please note: this entry is not considered for any champion ribbon. Born 3-1-16 through 8-31-16. 10- JUNIOR TWO YEAR OLD COW- born after February 28, 2016 and before September 1, 2016. 11- SENIOR TWO YEAR OLD COW- born after August 31, 2015 and before March 1, 2016. 12- JUNIOR THREE YEAR OLD COW- born after February 28, 2015 and before September 1, 2015. 13- SENIOR THREE YEAR OLD- born after August 31, 2014 and before March 1, 2015. **C-INTERMEDIATE AND RESERVE INTERMEDIATE CHAMPIONJUNIOR SHOW- from classes 8-12. First and second place animals will be considered. **D-INTERMEDIATE AND RESERVE INTERMEDIATE CHAMPIONOPEN SHOW-from classes 8-12. First and second place animals will be considered. 14- FOUR YEAR OLD COW- born after August 31, 2013 and before September 1, 2014. 15- FIVE YEAR OLD COW- born after August 31, 2012 and before September 1, 2013. 16- AGED COW- born before September 1, 2012. 17- 125,000 POUND COW- any cow, any age, with official lifetime credits over 125,000 pounds of milk as of show day as verified by DHI records or performance pedigree. **E- SENIOR AND RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION-JUNIOR SHOWfrom classes 13-17. First and second place animals will be considered. **F- GRAND AND RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE-JUNIOR SHOW- Junior, Intermediate and Senior Champions will be considered. **G-SENIOR AND RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION-OPEN SHOW- from classes 13-17 First and second place animals will be considered. **H- GRAND AND RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE-OPEN SHOW- Junior, Intermediate and Senior Champions will be considered. **I- BEST UDDER OF SHOW- from the best uddered animals in the individual classes. One award will be presented. **J- GRAND AND RESERVE BRED BY EXHIBITOR IBITOR - from the first place animals in the individual classes. 18- DAIRY HERD- four milking or dry cows all owned by the exhibitor. 19-- THREE BEST FEMALES-all three must be bred and at least one owned by exhibitor. 20- PRODUCE OF DAM-two offspring, any age, from the same dam. May be owned by more than one exhibitor. One bull permitted. 21- DAM AND DAUGHTER-any cow and one of her female off spring, any age, may be owned by more than one exhibitor. **K- PREMIER EXHIBITORIBITOR AWARD- The exhibitor winning the most point on six or less animals. **L- PREMI ER BREEDER AWARD- The exhibitor winning the most points on six or less animals.

Spring 2018 23

Junior Show Open Show

Name of Exhibitor ANIMAL NAME

DATE OF BIRTH

REGISTRATION NO.

CLASS Number

305 PRODUCTION RECORD

SIRE

DAM BRED & OWNED

Yes No

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME

DATE OF BIRTH

REGISTRATION NO.

CLASS Number

305 PRODUCTION RECORD

SIRE

DAM BRED & OWNED

Yes No

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME

DATE OF BIRTH

REGISTRATION NO.

CLASS Number

305 PRODUCTION RECORD

SIRE

DAM BRED & OWNED

Yes No

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME

DATE OF BIRTH

REGISTRATION NO.

CLASS Number

305 PRODUCTION RECORD

SIRE

DAM BRED & OWNED

Yes No

OWNER

ANIMAL NAME

DATE OF BIRTH

REGISTRATION NO.

CLASS Number SIRE

305 PRODUCTION RECORD

DAM BRED & OWNED

Yes No

OWNER

Great Lakes Spring Holstein Show 24

Spring 2018

One More Thing . . . Make sure you check out the Michigan Spring Foundation Sale catalog online at www.DairyAgendaToday.com If you haven’t made your reservations for the National Holstein Convention, call the hotel and get your spot reserved! For more information on the National Holstein convention visit www.MichiganHolstein.com

Like the Michigan Holstein Association and the Michigan Jersey Cattle Club pages on Facebook! And remember, all issues of the Michigan Dairy Cattle News are online at www.dairyagendatoday.com

“Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time; they just have the heart!”

An exciting opportunity is on the horizon for Michigan Holstein Breeders! As you’ve hopefully heard by now, we are hosting the 2018 National Holstein Convention right here in our great state. Mark your calendar to “Explore the Shore, Michigan Holsteins and More” June 29 – July 3, 2018 in Traverse City. Planning is well underway and that includes volunteer sign up. You know the saying “Many hands make light work.” Well, we are going to need a lot of helping hands to make our event successful! Whether you are drawn to Junior Activities, the National Convention Sale, Tours or just greeting our guests, we have volunteer opportunities to fit your interest and schedule. National Holstein Convention doesn’t take place on your back doorstep very often, do not miss this opportunity! To volunteer, contact Sarah Dillon: 517-398-1521 or poseycreekfarms@gmail.com For general convention information, visit the website: www.michiganholstein.com/ Facebook, Instagram & Twitter: @NatHolConv18

2018 Advertising Rates

BREEDER RATES PER ISSUE:

Single Full Page $200 Half Page $119 Quarter Page $75 Eighth Page $44 Business Card

4 Issues $169 $94 $63 $32 $25

SUMMER ISSUE: Ad Deadline May 1 • Mailing June 1 (Convention and Midwest Holsteins)

Additional Charges: Color: $75 color/$15 per color Photos: $5/photo

FALL ISSUE: Ad Deadline Sept. 1 • Mailing Sept. 30

COMMERCIAL RATES PER ISSUE:

WINTER ISSUE: Ad Deadline Dec. 1 • Mailing Dec. 20 SPRING ISSUE: Ad Deadline Feb. 10 • Mailing March 1 (Midwest Holsteins Issue)

Full Page Half Page Quarter Page Eighth Page Business Card

$525 $375 $288 $150 $60

Discounts: Advertisements scheduled and prepaid before February 10 receive a 7 percent discount. Bills paid within 7 days receive a 5 percent discount.

Overdue accounts will be charged a 1.5% interest per month at 60 days past due until paid. No new advertisements will be accepted from accounts with outstanding balances.

Please make checks payable to “Michigan Dairy Cattle News”

Michigan Holstein Association • 401 Harvest Trail • Midlothian, TX 76065 • Phone 517-490-7736 • michholstein1@gmail.com Melissa Hart, Editor • 517-398-1957 • farm.writer@hotmail.com Spring 2018

calendar 2018

March 9-10: Ohio Holstein Convention Sale & Meeting, Days Inn, Sidney, OH March 20: Spring Genomic and Type Spotlight Sale, Quietcove Holsteins, Wapakoneta, OH

Agromatic................................................................... 21 Bovine Beautician....................................................... 14 Brenhaven Jerseys.......................................... MW pg. 45 Buellâ€™s Bovines............................................................ 13 Dairy Agenda Today..................................................... 3 District VII................................................................. 18 End Road Farm........................................................... 15

March 23: Spartan Spectacular Sale, East Lansing, MI

Fastrack...................................................................... 15

March 23: Dinner after the sale with Dann Brady of Ferme Blondin, East Lansing, MI

GENEX....................................................................... 27

March 23: Michigan Spring Foundation Sale, East Lansing, MI

Great Lakes Embryo Transfer...................................... 14

March 24: Great Lakes Spring Holstein Show, East Lansing, MI

King Street Dairy........................................... MW pg. 41

March 24: Michigan Spring Jersey Show, East Lansing, MI

Michigan Livestock Service.......................................... 20

March 29-31: Spring Dairy Expo, Columbus, OH March 30-31: Mid-East Spring National Holstein Show, Columbus, OH April 5-9: New York Spring Dairy Carousel, Show Results Syracuse, NY April 14: Oneeda Farm Spring Paired Selections Heifer Sale, Syracuse, IN April 14: Southern Spring National Holstein Show, Stillwater, OK April 28: Midwest Spring National Holstein Show, Madison, WI May 1: Ad Deadline for MDCN Summer Issue May 5: Celebration at Silvermist Sale, Dallas Rynd and Judy Wolford, Ashville, OH May 17-18: Western Spring National Holstein Show, Richmond, UT June 19-July 8: World Jersey Conference, Columbus, OH June 29-July 3: National Holstein Convention, Traverse City, MI July 16-20: Michigan Dairy Expo, East Lansing, MI 26

Germane Environmental............................................. 14

Green Meadow Farms.................................... MW pg. 14

Michigan Spring Foundation Sale................... MW pg. 35 MMPA.......................................................................... 2 MOO-ville/Westvale View Dairy.................... MW pg. 18 MSU Animal Science...................................... MW pg. 32 National Holstein Convention..........................MW pg. 6 NorthStar Cooperative................................................ 28 Oneeda Farm, LLC......................................... MW pg. 52 Posey Creek Farms...................................................... 13 Prengerâ€™s..................................................................... 16 Reed Dairy.................................................................. 19 Rod-er-Dic..................................................... MW pg. 59 Spartan Spectacular Calf Sale..................................... 17 ST Genetics................................................................... 4 Star-Summit Farm......................................... MW pg. 30 Starward Farm............................................................ 19 Tomerton Holsteins & Jerseys...................................... 13 Wardin Brothers.......................................................... 14 Wonder-bred Registered Holsteins............................... 13

index to advertisers

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As the convention nears make your plans to join Holstein enthusiasts from coast to coast when we meet in the Cherry Capital of the world!

PRE-CONVENTION TOURS

Friday June 29, 2018 • Lake Michigan Sportfishing Chartered Fishing Trip – Reel in the big one on Lake Michigan! Saturday, June 30, 2018 • Mackinac Island Tour – Drive across the five mile Mackinac Bridge to take a ferry to the island of no motorized vehicles and enjoy a carriage ride or a bike tour. Lunch at the Grand Hotel and a tour of the historic Fort Mackinac!

HOST DAY TOURS

Sunday, July 1, 2018 • Tour 4 farms in the McBain area and see a Michigan Holstein Breeders Showcase of Michigan’s Finest Registered Holsteins. • Leelanau Peninsula • Sail on Tall Ships • Cruise Lake Michigan on a Catamaran • Play in the sand at Sleeping Bear Dunes • Float the Platte River • Enjoy a family fun night with the Holstein Block Party- Bounce houses, games and a Knocker-ball Tournament!

NON-DELEGATE TOURS

Monday, July 2, 2018 • Lighthouse at Brys Estate Tour Lavender Farm and Chateau Chantal Tour • Wine tasting • Shopping Downtown Traverse City

SPECIAL JUNIOR EVENT: COWS TO CAREERS

Design Kristy Roose

Enjoy a high energy program covering the hot button issues for the millennial generation heading into the workforce. Youth will find their way from the dairy cow to the dairy career while visiting with professionals in the dairy industry at the career fair style trade show. Headquarters Hotel – Grand Traverse Resort and Spa • 800-236-1577 or 231-534-6000 • promocode=NHC0618 100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd., Box 404 Acme, MI 49610-0404. More rooms and condos have been added to the convention block. Make sure you call the hotel to make your reservation and mention the National Holstein Convention for the reduced rate! Follow us on the 2018 National Holstein Convention Facebook page for the latest information.

Registration will open soon! For all the convention information and updates visit:

6 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Spring 2018

Green Meadow Kenzie-ET EX91 2E

Green Meadow Kasie-ET EX90 2E

Life 167,690 milk 3.5% 5503F 2.9% 4602P

4-08 365d 34,190m 4.5% 1539F 3.0% 1027P

Her daughter sells! Green Meadow Moonbeam-ET VG88

Her granddaughter sells! Green Meadow Carefree-ET EX91

Life 130,340 milk 3.5% 4513F 3.1% 4044P

Ad design Kristy Roose

Life 154,060 milk 3.9% 5971F 3.1% 4709P

Her daughter sells! SELLING MARCH 23, 2018 IN THE MICHIGAN HOLSTEIN ASSOCIATION SPRING FOUNDATION SALE: GREEN MEADOW KONIA-ET

A fresh Mogul 2-year-old out of Kenzie, granddaughter of Kasie

GREEN MEADOW PETY DOMINIQUE

A fresh Pety 2-year-old x VG Observer x VG Shottle x Kasie

GREEN MEADOW MARDI GRAS ELLI

A fresh MardiGras 2-year-old with 3 generations of VG dams with 30,000 plus of milk and 3.6% to 4.0% butter fat behind her.

Her daughter sells! GREEN MEADOW DASHN JUNE

A fresh Dashawn 2-year-old x VG Shaman x VG AltaCynister x EX 90 Roy Lane Jordan

GREEN MEADOW MARCIA-ET

A fresh Shaman 2-year-old x Green Meadow Moonbeam-ET x VG Outside x VG Rudoph

TO THE SPARTAN SPECTACULAR CALF SALE: GREEN MEADOW CHARLOTTE-ET

A September calf by Delta out of Green Meadow Carefree-ET

“Where the Latch String is Always Out” Craig & Darcy Green • Velmar & Margaret Green • 6400 N Hollister Rd • Elsie, Michigan 48831 • 989-862-4291 14 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Spring 2018

14 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Spring 2018

30 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Spring 2018

32 - MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Spring 2018

Michigan At A Glance Explore the Shore at National Holstein Convention

Traverse City, MI -- Make plans to join Holstein enthusiasts from coast to coast in Traverse City, Michigan for the 2018 National Holstein Convention on June 29th -July 3rd. Sun, sand, sailing and a great cattle sale are just a few of the fun adventures that await attendees this year as they explore the Michigan shoreline and everything Michigan has to offer. Cars may be king in Michigan, but agriculture is the crowned prince as the second largest industry in Michigan. In addition, the Great Lakes State is second only to California in diversity of agricultural crops produced in the nation. Everyone will be descending on the Cherry Capital of the world to enjoy the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Golf, tennis, swimming and relaxing in a spa are all options available at the resort. The Host Day Farm Tours will include four dairies that are unique in their operation. Hidden Hills Dairy, Yonkman’s Dairy, Bosscher Dairy and Ber-Sher Dairy will be the featured farms in addition to a Michigan Holstein Breeder’s Showcase where breeders from around the state will send one of the outstanding individuals to be on display for convention goers. In addition, a tour to Mackinac Island, charter boat fishing, wine tasting, tall ship sailing and climbing the sand dunes are just a few of the activities included on a full tour schedule. The Juniors will enjoy a Cows to Careers event where they can glean information about the careers available and mingle with professionals in the industry. A Holstein Block

party will encompass family fun night where contests, tournaments, food and fun will fill Sunday evening, July 1st, at the resort. The convention sale will be held on

Monday, July 2nd in the hotel ballroom with the cattle housed on the resort grounds. David Rama and Daniel Brandt along with the convention sale committee are lining up an outstanding offering of cattle fit for the National Convention Sale. As the Michigan Holstein Association finalizes their plans for this annual event, you can prepare as well by making your hotel reservations at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Rooms have been filling up quickly, so we advise you contact the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa at 800.236.1577 to make your room reservations. Ask for Holstein Association Room Rate - promocode NHC0618. Rates are available until June 1, 2018 - Subject to availability For complete details, updates and news about the convention visit www.michiganholstein.com and follow us on Facebook at the 2018 National Holstein Convention in Michigan. And we will see you this summer on the shore!

Michigan Juniors Plan a Unique National Convention Experience By Kristen Burkhardt The 2018 National Holstein Convention is quickly approaching us! Michigan is excited to be able to host such a prestigious event. The Michigan Junior Holstein Association (MJHA) has been gearing up to welcome youth from all over the United States to our very own home. And we are doing our best to make this a unique convention for all Juniors. First off, I would like to highlight how special our location is to the convention. The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is located in a scenic area highlighted by Lake Michigan. Because of the hotel location, most of the convention events are either at the hotel or very close by. We will be hosting the first ever “Cows to Careers” on Monday, July 2nd. This event will tie in a career fair in a talk show format! This 60 minute talk show will address important topics such as dressing for success, working with millennials, social media presence, how to make the most of a ride-along, and interviewing tips. After the conclusion of the talk show, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, juniors will be able to walk around the career fair and interact with industry professionals. Youth of

all ages are encouraged to bring their resume to see what schools and dairy industry jobs are represented at this career fair. Our unique convention continues with a float down the river to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, highlighter junior mixer, and the sale location. Many states may have mountains or long beaches, but we have gigantic sand hills called dunes that you can climb or run down to get to the water. Not to mention, one of Michiganders favorite activities during the summer includes tying multiple tubes together and floating down a river. Also, the junior mixer will have a twist to it this year. Instead of having a regular dance, each junior will receive a white shirt and highlighter to see how many youth from other states they can get to sign their shirt! Lastly, the sale location will be right at the hotel. This means that juniors can decide between the sale or our hospitality option or both. There will be a pool party right at the hotel for the juniors so they can attend the sale and then enjoy the pool! Michigan is eager to host the 2018 National Holstein Convention! We hope to see you there for a week full of fun, networking, and the best unlimited dairy bar yet! MIDWEST HOLSTEINS, Spring 2018 - 33

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