2018 Minnesota Dairy Princess Special Edition

DAIRY ST R

Special Edition

May 12, 2018

Hopes, dreams come true

Annexstad’s dairy advocacy culminates with year as Princess Kay

By Maria Bichler Staff Writer

ST. PETER, Minn. – Communicating with those working in the dairy industry and those consuming dairy products as well as those who may not know anything about the dairy industry is what 20-year-old Emily Annexstad enjoys.

“I’ve always enjoyed talking to people whether it is the feed nutritionist on our farm or the veterinarian to different tours my family has given on our farm or being one of the few farms kids at my school,” Annexstad said. “I’ve always enjoyed sharing my dairy story and being Princess Kay has been the perfect opportunity to continue to do so.”

Annexstad is the third generation on her family’s farm near St. Peter, Minn. Her parents, Rolf and Jean Annexstad, own the farm with her uncle, Mike Annexstad. Her grandmother, Lois Annexstad, is also active in the operation. Along with her two twin brothers, the

family farms 500 acres of alfalfa, corn and soybeans, and milk 200 cows.

Annexstad has been devoting her time to serving as the 64th Princess Kay of the Milky Way and attending the University of Minnesota where she is a sophomore studying animal science and agricultural communications and marketing.

The day before the opening of the 2017 Minnesota State Fair, Annexstad was crowned the next Princess Kay. “I was very surprised and excited, and also really humbled and grateful for the opportunity that I knew I would have over the next year,” she said. “The rst day of the fair was a blur. … It’s always been a dream of mine to not only be Princess Kay but also to spend all 12 days at the state fair, so it was a really fun experience.”

Annexstad often attended the state fair showing dairy cattle for 4-H. “When I was young my

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Emily Annexstad is serving as the 64th Princess Kay of the Milky Way. Annexstad is a sophomore at the University of Minnesota.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Emily Annexstad conducts story Ɵme at the 2017 Minnesota State Fair with nalist Gina Holdvogt.

family would go to the fair and every year my mom would point out the butter sculptures in the dairy building and say to me that one day this could be you,” Annexstad said. “I didn’t understand what being a dairy princess meant until I saw my rst coronation.”

Upon seeing the coronation of a Princess Kay and hearing the outgoing Princess Kay’s speech, Annexstad said she knew being a dairy princess was something she wanted to do someday.

Having achieved her childhood dream, Annexstad said the year serving as Princess Kay has been gratifying.

“I really have enjoyed everything,” Annexstad said.

Annexstad was able to partake in events not privy to most Princess Kays during their reign. She was able to work at and enjoy the many events sur-

rounding Super Bowl LII during the Super Bowl Experience in Minneapolis Jan. 27 to Feb. 3.

She attended the Minnesota Super Bowl Host Committee Legacy Fund’s Kids Tailgate Party at the Target Center, which was the culmination of its 52 Weeks of Giving campaign. Annexstad worked the mix-it-with-milk station as part of the event.

She was also present at the Super Snack Challenge, where chefs crafted submitted recipes from children and winning meals were decided. She took in the Fuel Up to Play 60 experience booth as well as the Midwest Dairy interactive booth. In addition, she helped with the Fuel Up to Play 60 innovation challenge.

“I was a mentor to help the kids ne tune their proposals, which they then presented in front of an audience and judges to earn grant money to implement changes in their schools,” Annexstad said of the innovation challenge. “Most Princess Kays don’t have the opportunity to experience these things since the Super Bowl is not often hosted in Minnesota. It was a lot of fun.”

In addition to the fun swirling around the Super Bowl, Annexstad attended the Minnesota Junior Holstein Convention, which she previously attended as a member.

“I remember listening to the current Princess Kay; listening to her speak and share her story was another moment that I knew being Princess Kay was something I hoped to do someday,” she said. “I hope I inspired other young dairy enthusiasts to also want to communicate about the industry they grew up in and that they love by being Princess Kay or in some other way, shape or form.”

For others hoping to be a county dairy princess or for those vying for Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Annexstad has some advice.

Turn to ANNEXSTAD | Page 20

Introducing Your County Dairy Princesses For 2018...

Page 2 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018

Benton County

Parents: Rocky JoAnn Benoit Town: Sauk Rapids

Parents: Wade and Vicki Athey Town: Graceville

and

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on and your future plans. I am a freshman at Ridgewater College in Willmar. I work for a small dairy farm in Sauk Rapids. We milk around 50 head with 20 dry cows.

The farm breed is mostly Holstein with a few Brown Swiss and Jersey.

My future plan is to get involved in cattle nutrition.

Big Stone County

Lindsey Benoit, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Gilman Co-op Gilman, MN 320-387-2770

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? Being a dairy princess is important to me because I like to tell my story, and I’m not afraid to step out of my comfort zone. A lot of today’s generations don’t know much about dairy farms or agriculture as a whole. It is time to stand up and be an advocate.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farmers strive for perfection when it comes to providing safe and good quality milk and dairy products.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would start off by inviting them to the farm for a tour to show children how farmers take care of every animal and how each cow gets proper attention.

Parents: Joseph Bromenschenkel and Melissa Smelter Town: Sauk Rapids Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on and your future plans. I grew up helping on my grandparents’ dairy farm for many years until they retired. I currently work for my uncle, Jason Smelter, on his Alison Smelter, 18 70-cow dairy farm. Future Dairy Star Sponsor: plans include becoming a Bongards’ Creameries large animal veterinarian Norwood-Young and having a hobby farm.

America, MN 952-277-5500

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It is important to me because the dairy industry for small town farmers (like my uncle and grandparents) is slowly dying out to huge dairy farms. It’s important because I want to represent something that has been a part of my life for many years and will continue to be. I want to help the community be more involved in the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? That dairy prices are very low, and that is very bad for farmers. We should be buying lots more dairy products to help the farmers and, also, because they’re very good.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it? Ask them what their favorite thing to eat with dairy in it. Ask them where dairy products come from. Explain to them how milk gets from the cow to the store, then to their house. Share with them how we get different avors/colors of milk. I would show them visual representations and play a game on guessing a dairy product.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a farm outside of Graceville where we raise goats and feeder cattle. I am a member of 4-H, where I show dairy steers, dairy cattle, swine, dairy goats Kaylee Athey, 18 and dairy market goats.

Dairy Star Sponsor: My family milked cows Big Stone County ADA until I was 12 years old, Beardsley, MN but we continue to feed 320-265-6316 out steers. I am employed at Blackwelder’s County Line Dairy. Next fall, I will be enrolled in the pre-med program at South Dakota State University.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Promoting the dairy industry is something that is exciting to me. Growing up on a small dairy farm helped show me the importance of family farms. Children today, could be better educated about the importance of dairy in their daily diets. I am excited to promote consumption of dairy products. Being a dairy princess allows me to interact with others who are or were a part of the dairy industry, which helps me learn new things to share with others.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The importance of at least two to three servings of dairy in their daily diets. Plummeting milk consumption in the United States is scary for all dairy producers. Educating young people about the benets of consuming dairy products every day and providing them with knowledge of recipes using dairy will help increase the level of milk consumption.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would give them information about cows, the process of milking and what dairy farmers do. I would also educate them about healthy foods that have milk or other dairy products in them and the importance of calcium, vitamin D, and other essential vitamins and minerals that dairy products contribute to their daily diets. I would teach the third graders these things by using pictures and videos. I would also provide them with dairy products for a snack.

Brown County Parents: Tom and Mary Portner Town: Sleepy Eye Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior in high school at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Sleepy Eye. I am the fourth daughter of ve girls on our family’s 250cow registered Brown Crystal Portner, 17 Swiss dairy farm. I will be Dairy Star Sponsor: attending the University Bongards’ Creameries of Mary, Bismarck, N.D. Norwood-Young next fall to major in hisAmerica, MN tory education with plans 952-277-5500 to become a teacher.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess is important to me because this is an incredible industry that has shaped me and taught me many life lessons. I am grateful for any opportunity I have to give back to the dairy industry and share it with others.

Brown County continued What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The dedication that dairy farmers have to taking care of the dairy cow and producing a quality product for consumers. This is essential because consumers need to know the people behind the product and the quality product they are receiving.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share information with them about the dairy cow and how they produce the delicious products they consume. I would present it by bringing actual equipment from our farm such as calf bottles and feed stuffs that are used in everyday tasks on the farm. This would give them rsthand examples of real dairy farming.

Parents: Tom and Mary Portner Town: Sleepy Eye Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on Port-Haven Dairy where we milk 250 Brown Swiss with 200 head of youngstock. From a very young age, I fell in love with the dairy community and the Isabella Portner, 19 big brown cow. Today I Dairy Star Sponsor: am studying dairy science Bongards’ Creameries at Iowa State University.

Norwood-Young After studying, I plan to America, MN work within the dairy 952-277-5500 community or return to my home farm.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess is very important to me as I feel telling our story is a huge part of being a responsible dairy farmer. I value the time I am able to talk with consumers of all ages and share with them all that we do.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The way we care for and respect our animals. It is important for people to understand how important our cows are to us.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would talk about the basics of all that we do and compare it to the things kids do in their day-to-day lives. Relating what happens on the farm to what kids know keeps them engaged and increases understanding. Activities are also helpful to increase understanding, such as mixing butter.

Carver County Parents: Dan and Kathie Broll Town: Chaska Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. The dairy farm I work on is just outside of Cologne. It has 41 milking Holsteins and land for crops. We milk in a freestall barn, and my employer likes to team up with researchers to try to nd the best combination of nutrients to provide the best care for his cows.

Amy Broll, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: Lano Equipment of Norwood Norwood-Young America 952-467-2181

Carver County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018 • Page 3

Carver County continued Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

If you ask any farmer, you’ll nd that being a dairy farmer is a lifestyle, not just a job. I grew up with this lifestyle, and my neighbors have this lifestyle. I want to be a dairy princess so that I can be the voice of all the dairy farmers in Carver County. Doing this is important to me because my up-bringing on our dairy farm shaped who I am, and I love dairy foods.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? More people are becoming vegetarians and vegans. Upon speaking to some of these people, they told me they feel animals aren’t being properly treated.

“Farmers take good care of their animals,” is a crucial dairy message to share. Farmers treat their cows like family by calling the vet when needed and by giving them constant access to food, water and comfortable stalls.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I’d talk about a typical day on the farm in relation to feeding the cows and milking. I would bring in a milking unit or a dipper and some cow feed for the children to see, touch and smell. I would talk to them about why we should consume milk, cheese and yogurt. I would keep them engaged by asking questions to see how much they already know about the dairy community and foods.

Parents: Jeff and Deb Brueggemeier Town: Carver Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I was raised on my family’s dairy farm. Our farm is now a third-generation farm being run by my dad. We operate as a family farm with my two sisters, myself and my Lisa Brueggemeier, parents doing all the work.

18 I plan to go to college at Dairy Star Sponsor: Minnesota State University-Mankato majoring in Bongards’ Creameries Norwood-Young exercise science and miAmerica, MN noring in psychology, then 952-277-5500 continuing on to get a doctorate degree in physical therapy.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Kids today are removed from dairy farms and lack an understanding of how dairy products get to the store.

Our dairy products hold so much nutritional value and taste awesome, so it is an easy way for kids to be healthy and love what they are eating.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The nutritional value that milk brings. It can benet your health in so many ways, such as helping to lose weight, making bones stronger, generating energy for the body and helping to maintain normal vision and skin. After all, it is still delicious to drink and eat dairy products.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would take a video of the day-to-day activities that happen on the farm to show the kids. I would then explain how the milk goes from the tank to the creamery and how, at the creamery, it goes from milk to various products they love to eat every day. I would then ask the class what questions they have.

Carver County continued Parents: Joel and Barb Grimm Town: Waconia Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a farm that has been in my family for over a century, and we milk 40 Holsteins. I attend Minnesota State University-Moorhead where I am majoring in English and Laura Grimm, 20 mass communications and Dairy Star Sponsor: minoring in public rela- Bongards’ Creameries tions. I will graduate this Norwood-Young December, and I hope to America, MN work in editing or commu952-277-5500 nications. I enjoy reading, traveling and spending time on the farm.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

It is incredibly important to share the story of dairy as it is an essential part of a healthy diet. I want to share the news about the nutritional powerhouse of dairy in order to build strong, healthy communities with strong, healthy bodies. Additionally, the dairy community has shaped me into who I am, and I am humbled to be a representative.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? One of the most important dairy messages is that dairy farmers care. We care about our cows, our environment and our consumers. This care factors into every decision we make about farming practices and animal well-being. Since most people do not grow up on farms, they may not have the opportunity to see this care rsthand.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would rst tell the students some basic facts about what cows eat, how much milk they produce and how farmers care for them. I would bring in a few things to pass around, such as hay and grain, to help them visualize life on the farm. After talking about how farmers keep their cows healthy, I would discuss how milk helps children grow up strong and healthy. Afterward, I would send them home with stickers, coloring pages and fact sheets for parents.

Chisago County Parents: Tim and Jenny Holt Town: Taylors Falls Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a sophomore at University of Wisconsin-River Falls majoring in dairy science with a management emphasis. I am interested in pursuing a career in food Laura Holt, 19 and dairy production and Dairy Star Sponsor: packaging. I work on two Federated Co-ops different dairy farms. I Osceola, WI have been working on 800-294-7661 DNA Dairy for about three years. They milk 80 cows in a 10-cow swing parlor. I feed the calves and help milk the cows. The other farm I work at is Huppert Brothers Dairy. They milk 120 cows in a double-6 parlor. I mainly milk the cows, but I also carry out other tasks. Of course, no two days are exactly the same. That’s one of my favorite aspects of working on the farm. It keeps me on my toes.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

We represent all the farmers who work hard each day to produce wholesome dairy products. It is our job as princesses to promote the consumption of dairy prod-

Chisago County continued ucts and encourage people to live a healthy lifestyle.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? How healthy and important dairy is in our diets. As a dairy princess, I promote Undeniably Dairy.

This is a campaign dedicated to show people the quality characteristics of dairy products. This ensures that they enjoy and receive the essential nutrients found mainly in dairy products.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would tell them about the great taste of dairy products, how milk contains nine essential nutrients, the versatility of dairy products, and how the calcium in dairy products promotes strong bone growth. I would make my presentation short and include pictures of delicious dairy products. After the presentation, I would have samples for them to taste.

Parents: Kevin and Tara Lindahl Town: Lindstrom Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Chisago Lake High School. I will be attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, double majoring in agricultural communications and mar- Isabelle Lindahl, 17 keting, and animal science Dairy Star Sponsor: with an emphasis in dairy Ellsworth Cooperative production. I work on my Creamery family-owned and operEllsworth, WI ated dairy farm, Lindahl 715-273-4311 Farms LLC. I perform nuLeedstone merous tasks to manage Melrose, MN our herd of 105 milking 320-256-3303 Jerseys, Holsteins, and Red and Whites, and their youngstock.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Serving as a dairy princess puts me in a position to provide outreach to those who don’t come from a farming or dairy background. This duty is important to me as I serve as a role model to advocate for our beloved way of life. I’m able to share with others our rich history as American farmers while promoting delicious and nutritious dairy products.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy product nutrition is one of the most important messages consumers should be made aware of. In a market of rising dairy substitutes, it is crucial to provide accurate information of the benets dairy provides. Some of these alternatives are less expensive, which is in general more appealing to customers.

However, none can compare to real dairy, which naturally contains nine essential nutrients and has overall greater bioavailability.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. One of my favorite topics for elementary students is the story of how milk gets from farm to table. I remember my fascination with the subject at a young age and think it’s increasingly important that kids know where and how their food is produced. Ideally, I would take the class on a farm visit, but my next option would be to provide hands-on activities and to share personal experiences to resonate with the students.

Chisago County continued on next page

Page 4 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018

Chisago County continued Parents: Dale and Ann Sandberg Town: Taylors Falls

Dodge County Parents: Travis and Janna Delzer Town: Dodge Center

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Chisago Lakes High School, and I live on Sandberg Farms. We are a fourth-generation dairy farm with 80 milking animals. I will be attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in pursuit of an agriculture education major.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Triton High School in Dodge Center. I started working for Keith Behounek in July of 2017. Keith has a Alicia Sandberg, 18 herd of 260 Holsteins. I have learned a lot about Bailey Delzer, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: the dairy industry since I AMPI Dairy Star Sponsor: started. In the fall, I will Carriage House Animal Paynesville Division be attending South Dakota Hospital - Ross Bailey www.ampi.com State University in BrookKasson, MN Why is being a dairy ings for agricultural edu507-634-6781 princess important to you? The dairy princess pro- cation and animal science. gram is important to me because of all the skills, facts, and friends I have made. The program has helped me Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I set goals for myself and learn how to achieve them. enjoy teaching others about my passion. Many people The public speaking and interviewing skills have al- are uninformed or misinformed about where their ready helped me tremendously in school and other food comes from, and I hope to teach those who want situations. Lastly, I feel more condent when talking to learn. about the dairy community.

What do you think is one of the most important What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right dairy messages to share with consumers right now? It is important to teach the general public about now? Dairy milk is a healthy, natural beverage. No the ways they can help make a comeback in our inother beverage can compare to all the benets of dairy dustry. While milk prices are low, consumers can play milk. For all ages, it provides protein, calcium and their role in helping by continuing to purchase cows’ vitamins that are needed by the body. milk as opposed to plant-based milk. Not only will this help the dairy industry, but there is much more If you had the opportunity to give a classroom pre- nutritional value in cows’ milk, as well. sentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would If you had the opportunity to give a classroom prepresent it. I would start with a presentation about sentation to third graders, describe what kind of the process from farm to table. This would be eas- information you would share and how you would ily shown by a video or slideshow. I would then talk present it. I would present them with fun facts about about their favorite dairy foods. Here, I could be dis- cows and the dairy industry to get them interested. I cussing all the delicious foods made with dairy prod- would also like to play games to get them involved ucts. I would also send fun recipes home with each and excited about learning. Kids are more impresstudent for them to try. sionable at a young age so getting them enthusiastic early in life inspires a passion.

Parents: Dale and Ann Sandberg Town: Taylors Falls

Parents: Luke and Jill Elias Town: Mantorville

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am in the step program at North Branch High School. I live on a fourth-generation dairy farm in Taylors Falls. We milk 80 cows, feed out our steers and farm 1,000 acres. I help feed and bed the calves. I also enjoy showing a calf at the county fair.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have grown up on a farm and been around the dairy industry most of my life. My parents operate a hog barn, and we have had cattle here and there as I have grown up. I Hannah Elias, 19 work for Patrick O`Brien, Dairy Star Sponsor: milking cows. We milk Durst Brothers about 110 cows, dependMantorville, MN ing on the time of year. I 507-951-1523 have worked for him and his wife Emma for more than three years. I am going to be a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls studying dairy science with the drive to become a large animal veterinarian. This summer, I will be doing an internship with Ag Partners as a crop scout. I am excited to see what I can learn this summer by participating in that.

Christina Sandberg, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: AMPI Paynesville Division www.ampi.com

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I like to promote the dairy industry by telling others how important milk and dairy foods are. I like helping at booths and doing hands-on activities with people. Being a princess has helped me to get up in front of people.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? How healthy and important dairy is in our diets.

Everyone should have three servings of dairy foods a day. I would like to tell them about the “Dairy 3 for Me.” If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would tell them how milk gets from the farm to their homes. I would show a video and then tell them about our farm and how our milk gets from our farm to the consumers.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I love being a dairy princess because I love educating people about farmers’ roles in the world. I get to be the young face of agriculture and speak for farmers who may not have that opportunity to teach others.

I take so much pride in helping farmers, especially during this time.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? If you have any questions about farming and what farmers do, ask a farmer, go to the farmers market, or use credible and reliable sources. So many people may use websites and blogs as sources of in-

Dodge County continued formation. All those sites can be based on opinion or may have an agenda against farming. The easiest way to make sure you are getting the right information is to ask someone rst-hand who is in the agriculture world.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would teach the kids the milking process, and how milk gets from the cow and into the fridge.

There are so many demonstrations that can be shown that a child would absorb and be super enthusiastic about. I would want to have videos on how to milk the cow, who picks up the milk and the tests that are run.

I want the kids to be excited about it and go home and tell their parents about what they’ve learned. Perhaps the parents who don’t allow their kids to drink milk might think twice. I want to start a conversation at the home of the child.

Douglas County Parents: David and Wendy Craig Town: Alexandria Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My family had 80 Holsteins, but we sold the dairy when I was 14. After selling, my family transitioned into raising beef cattle and crops.

After selling the dairy, Mackenzie Craig, 17 there was an empty spot Dairy Star Sponsor: in my heart, so I decided Nelson Creamery to get a job on a local Nelson, MN dairy. The last two years 320-762-0115 of working on Alan and Jessica Klimek’s dairy farm have been a blessing. Alan and Jessica have 85 registered Holstein cows and 85 heifers. I help with the calf chores, prepping the milk room, making sure the barn is clean, milking, cutting hay in the summer and much more. After graduating this spring, I plan on attending Ridgewater College in Willmar for dairy management.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I am honored to have been able to grow up on a dairy and work on a dairy. I feel proud to represent the hardworking farmers in Douglas County. I want to educate consumers on the dedication and hard work dairy farmers put in every day to produce quality products for our nation. It is important to inform consumers and younger kids about the process of dairy farming and how the products get to our tables. I am proud to promote the dairy industry in a positive manner.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Farmers are in need of support. Farmers work long days every day to produce quality products for consumers. There was a study done by the CDC and found that people working in agriculture take their lives at a rate higher than any other occupation. The data suggests that the suicide rate for agricultural workers in 17 states was nearly ve times higher compared with that in the general population. Farmers are passionate about what they do. For them, it’s not about the money. It’s about feeding the nation.

Information to third graders and how you would present it? I would explain where their dairy products come from, how they are made, how the products get from farm to store and the nutritional value behind the products. Having younger kids learn why we need these dairy products is important because they need to know how to keep their bodies healthy and to be able to work efciently. A fun activity I would do with them would be making ice cream. Ice cream is a great dairy product that kids love, and they get the hands-on experience to be able to process the important information about the product.

Douglas County continued on next page

Douglas County continued Parents: Larry and Mary Kay Lund Town: Brandon Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am nishing my freshman year at the University of Sioux Falls. My major is elementary education, and I am hoping to be a middle school math teacher. I am the youngMichelle Lund,19 est of ve siblings. On my Dairy Star Sponsor: family farm, we feed out Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op lambs, raise laying hens of Gareld, MN and butcher chickens and 320-834-2271 farm around 900 acres. We milk a total of 100 cows; my parents milk 36 cows in their tiestall barn, and my brother just built a robotic barn this past year.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I want people to know what is really happening on a farm. I want them to understand why dairy products are important for your body, and they are the reason why you get so many other food products.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Cows’ milk is meant for humans. It is an important message because having milk in your diet will benet your body and health. All the nutrients it gives to our bodies is something other products cannot provide as well as milk does.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would ask them what is better for you: pop, juice or milk? Then I would continue to explain why milk and other dairy products are better for you.

Including some interesting facts and silly jokes can help them remember why dairy intake is important to daily life.

Fillmore County Parents: Kevin and Kelly Biel Town: Harmony

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018 • Page 5

Fillmore County continued

Goodhue County continued

present it. I would love to talk to them about how healthy and delicious dairy products are. I believe that is something that they would learn best by hands-on activities. I would make customized yogurt parfaits as an example of a healthy snack.

man in the human development family studies program at University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Freeborn County Parents: Marty and Linda Saxton Town: Lake Mills, Iowa Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a junior at Lake Mills High School. I show dairy cattle in 4-H and open class, and I’m also involved in chorus, community theatre, speech and FFA. I enjoy Lydia Saxton, 17 art, reading and writing, Dairy Star Sponsor: and spending time with Northern Country Co-op my hobby farm animals, www.ncountrycoop.com too. My family’s farm is 800-348-1866 Larcrest Holsteins, where I enjoy getting to be around legendary cows like Larcrest Crimson, Cale and Cosmopolitan. The 500-acre farm sits near the border of Minnesota and Iowa and is home to around 600 cows and heifers. My future plans are to attend college and major in art education and musical theatre. The farm has taught me many life lessons and skills and is a place I enjoy; I hope to always have it be a part of my life.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I’ve been around dairy cattle my entire life, and I feel fortunate to have grown up on a farm. I want to share with others the important lessons I learned growing up and to promote this great industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? In a world where farms are getting a bad rap, I think it’s important to present that dairy foods are an essential, wholesome part of our diet, and dairy farmers take great pride in supplying the world with their products. Farmers go to great lengths to make sure their cows are well cared for and that the land that feeds the cows is sustainable. After all, healthy cows are happy cows, and happy cows make happy farmers who reach out to make the world a better place.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s 200-cow dairy. Our herd is composed of Holsteins with some Jerseys and crossbreeds sprinkled in just to keep things interesting. I Kayla Biel, 18 love to show my Jerseys Dairy Star Sponsor: as often as I can with my Dairyland Equipment sisters and brother. I plan Services to attend South Dakota Plainview, MN State University to major 507-534-3161 in dairy production while taking part in a pre-veterinary program.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would bring in a baby calf so that the kids could pet it. I would tell them about how the calf will one day grow up to give us milk. The milk will be used to make ice cream, cheese, butter and other great products that provide us with the nutrition our bodies need. It’s amazing how much cows do for us. The lesson would end with a healthy dairy snack.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess has always been a dream of mine. I love sharing my passion of dairy with others, and this is a great platform to do so. The crown is a great perk as well.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up living and working on my family’s 120-Holstein cow dairy. I am the fth child of nine, and we grew up all helping with different chores on the farm.

We raise our replacement heifers and nish our steers. I am graduating from Lake City High School this spring, and this fall I will be a fresh-

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? It is important for consumers to understand the economic crisis dairy farmers are in right now, and that even though we are struggling to keep our heads above water, our cows’ comfort and well-being never waiver. Our cows come rst, always.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would

Goodhue County Parents: Ted and Lora Keller Town: Lake City

Catherine Keller, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Livestock Systems Pine Island, MN 507-356-8349

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I want to share my experiences growing up on the farm and spread the message about how dairy is a fresh and wholesome food for family dinner tables. I love interacting with people of all ages to talk about dairy farming and ways dairy can be implemented into people’s diets. It is important that I share these dairy messages.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farm families deliver local, nutrient-rich foods to families’ dinner tables in as little as 48 hours.

In today’s world, everyone wants to know where their food comes from and how healthy it is for their diets.

Some people may not know that milk can end up in the grocery store in 48 hours. As dairy farmers, we need to keep telling our story.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it? I would begin by relating dairy topics to something that they would understand. One topic I would talk about is how our cows are cared for and their diets. My favorite analogy is comparing a TMR mixture to tater tot hot dish. A farmer chops up all of the corn, silage, minerals and other ingredients together like a hot dish. I would also be sure to bring in samples and display pictures of my farm.

Parents: Troy Rechtzigel and Kathy Ryan Town: Wanamingo Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am the only daughter of Troy Rechtzigel and Kathy Ryan, stuck between two brothers, Noah, 20, and Markus, 17.

Dairy farming has always had a deep-rooted history Kate Rechtzigel, 19 throughout my life, as Dairy Star Sponsor: both my mom’s and dad’s Dodge Veterinary families with both of my Clinic grandfathers being dairy Dodge Center, MN farmers. Most of my life 507-374-2125 has been spent as a thirdgeneration dairy farmer on my dad’s dairy farm. As a family, we work together to milk 60 Holstein, Jersey and Holstein/Jersey crossbred cows in a tiestall barn along with running 500 acres of corn, alfalfa, soybeans and sweet corn. I am attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities majoring in animal science-dairy production. I plan to minor in food science or double major in agricultural communications and marketing so I can achieve my dream of working on my family’s dairy farm producing delicious dairy products as well as writing about my agricultural experiences for magazines.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I always looked up to the dairy princesses because they loved cows just as much as I do. I strongly believe that being a dairy princess allows us to share the story behind the delicious glass of milk. As ambassadors for the dairy community, we must encourage everyone to thank a dairy farmer three times a day. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to have any of the dairy products that are taken for granted.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

Dairy farmers are committed to providing safe, high quality milk and dairy products. In fact, 98 percent of U.S. dairy farms are family owned and operated. This means that everyone on the family dairy farm is passionate and dedicated to providing a safe, wholesome and nutritious glass of milk. Consumers need to hear the true story behind their nutritious dairy products so that they can feel reassured.

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If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share my dairy story through a presentation and enlighten them by explaining how calves are taken care of all the way up until they become cows. I would also have samples to show them exactly what the cows are eating, while including interactive videos and pictures to keep them entertained.

I would nish my presentation by having the children complete an activity where they are working together to make ice cream and making sure to hand out cheese sticks to every child that wants one.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

It is a way to reach out to the public and talk to them about dairy and dairy foods. I especially enjoy advocating dairy to elementary students because they are full of excitement and are ready to learn, and they can’t wait to get their hands on the string cheese that I share with them. Elementary students are the up and coming generation so it is important for them to be properly informed about dairy products and their nutritional value.

Parents: Daniel and Sheila Schroeder Town: Caledonia

Parents: Mike and Casey Veiseth Town: Zumbrota Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on my family’s dairy farm outside of Zumbrota where we milk 80 Holstein cows. I have been involved in basketball, volleyball, NHS, FCCLA, FFA and 4-H. I have Kjersten Veiseth, 17 been on the dairy judging Dairy Star Sponsor: team for both FFA and 4-H G B Feed & Supply and have had the opportuBellechester, MN nity to judge at national 651-923-4425 and international competitions. I am attending the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities next fall to major in animal science with a dairy emphasis.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I believe that it is very important to get the message of how important dairy products are in nutrition out to the public. Teaching both kids and adults how important dairy is, is something I look forward to in the next year.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? A cow’s milk is the most nutritious option in the stores. When drinking milk, consumers are getting the nine essential nutrients that milk has naturally.

Today’s consumers need to know the importance of dairy products in their diet and how much of a difference they can make in their diet.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would teach the class about the power of milk and dairy products and how these products will help them grow and become stronger. Teaching the students about how cows are raised, what their diet consists of, and the benets that can come from consuming dairy products are all important lessons. I would also have some trivia questions and fun dairyrelated prizes that the students can win.

Parents: Grant and Joan Quam Town: Kenyon Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I participate in dairy judging, dairy showing, FFA, 4-H, National Honor Society and choir. I live and work on my family’s dairy farm, where we milk 60 Holsteins and Kira Quam, 18 Holstein crosses. I am in Dairy Star Sponsor: charge of caring for the Ag Partners calves, heifers and dry 651-923-4496 cows. I was accepted to the University of Minnesota majoring in animal science, and I am planning on applying to the veterinarian program.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy is essential to our diet because of the components in milk, cheese and yogurt, to name a few. Also, dairy has the nutrients we need such as calcium, potassium, protein and more.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would present to the class a slideshow about cow and calf nutrition, how to milk a cow, and fun facts about dairy foods and dairy cows. As a bonus, after the presentation they would be given some tasty dairy treats.

Houston County Parents: Ed and Becky Moldenhauer Town: La Crescent Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a sophomore at Winona State University and was accepted into the Winona State Rochester Nursing Program. I grew up on a 250-cow dairy in La Amanda Crescent along with my Moldenhauer, 20 parents and two older sibDairy Star Sponsor: lings. My plans for the fuWingert Sales & Service ture are to graduate from Plainview, MN the nursing program and 507-534-4386 nd a job in a hospital in which I can work closely and build personal relationships with my patients.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Every generation is getting farther away from agriculture, and I want to help people realize some of the myths that have been created about this industry are not true. It is very important to educate people about our wonderful industry, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to share the facts with the public.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Plant-based milk products are not healthier for you than real milk products. Dairy products, especially milk, have one of the cleanest nutrition labels.

Cows’ milk naturally contains many essential vitamins and minerals, whereas plant-based drinks contain many added ingredients. Research has found that the healthy fats found in dairy products are actually good for your body and help keep you full longer.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would describe all the benets that come from consuming dairy products like building strong muscles and bones, and I would compare the plantbased drinks to dairy milk. I would also educate them about lactose-free dairy milk options.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Caledonia High School, and I’m involved in many extracurricular activities including FFA, 4-H and robotics. I was born and raised on my fam- Rebeckah Schroeder, ily’s dairy and crop farm 18 where we milk 160 HolDairy Star Sponsor: stein cows. I enjoy spendFarmers Win Co-op ing time outside with the 800-450-3147 animals, as well as getting hands-on experience in the agriculture community. I plan to continue working on my family’s dairy farm.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess is important to me due to my passion for dairy. This opportunity allows me to spread my dedication and knowledge to the consumers and answer questions they may have. Being a dairy princess also allows me to promote all of the wholesome dairy products I’ve grown to know and love.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Consumers should be aware of the benets of dairy products. Dairy products provide vitamins and nutrients that are important in maintaining a healthy body. The nine essential nutrients that dairy products give us make eating healthy easy.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. The three-a-day dairy campaign. Teaching children why they should be consuming three serving of dairy products a day is important for them to learn at a young age. Teaching this while each child is consuming dairy products gives them a start in the right direction by checking off a serving for the day.

Kandiyohi County Parents: Brian and Bridget Engstrom Town: Renville Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my parents’ 170cow dairy ve miles south of Prinsburg. My responsibilities on our family dairy farm include milking cows, feeding calves Brooke Engstrom, 19 and operating equipment.

Dairy Star Sponsor: I am attending South Da- Bongards’ Creameries kota State University with Norwood-Young a major in dairy producAmerica, MN tion and a minor in ag 952-277-5500 business. I plan to return back home to the family farm and take over the operation beside my father and younger brother.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Communicating with the public about today’s modern dairy farms helps create a positive image for the dairy industry. A lot of people don’t understand how much hard work and sacrice goes into the milk products they consume, and they take them for granted. Thus, I truly believe in keeping family dairy farms operating for generations to come and strive to share my knowledge, experience, and passion for the industry with others.

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What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

The importance of consuming three dairy products a day as part of your daily diet. However, consumers need to be aware of other products sold as milk made from plants, such as rice, almond, coconut and soy milk, may contain calcium but are not included in the dairy group because their overall nutrient content is not similar to dairy milk.

Parents: Rod and Naomi Lindquist Town: Kerkhoven

day, it will help their bodies in many ways, and they are able to consume dairy in many different ways.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. The children would learn about the farmers in their community, the importance of farms to their everyday lives, the anatomy of a cow, and how milk from cows is turned into many foods we enjoy. I would create a hands-on experience by demonstrating and taste testing dairy foods such as butter, cheese and ice cream in the classroom.

Parents: Trever Brooke Lien Town: Spicer

and

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am the oldest of four children; I have two brothers, Caden and Brody, and a sister named Soa. I am a senior at New LondonSpicer High School, and Chloe Lien, 18 I will be attending South Dairy Star Sponsor: Dakota State University Bongards’ Creameries this coming fall for dairy Norwood-Young management. I work on America, MN Waterview Dairy, which is 952-277-5500 owned by Steve and Amy Combs. We milk 64 head of cattle twice a day. I also help at Andrew Holsteins, which is owned by Roger and Mary Swart, where we milk 50 head of registered Holsteins and Red and Whites. I am also starting to grow my own herd of registered Holsteins.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

The dairy industry has made an impact on my life.

I can’t wait to go out and be able to advocate for the dairy industry to the best of my ability. I will have the opportunity to speak to community members, schools and at many other great events. Being a Kandiyohi County dairy princess is a huge honor, and I can’t wait to share my love for this industry with others in the hope of further educating people about this industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Small dairies are going out of business due to milk prices being low and not being able to make a living. This is a topic consumers need to know and understand about the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? It would be a more hands-on presentation on how a dairy farm operates and the importance of dairy products in our everyday lives. I would present it by taking the classes out to a dairy farm and conducting a farm tour with different stations which share something about the industry: calf care, milking units and overall how a dairy is run. After the tour, I would teach them about the importance of dairy products by sharing facts and giving out different products for them to taste.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a sophomore at the University of North Dakota studying airport management. I am also working toward obtaining my private pilot license. My family owns Korissa Lindquist, 20 and operates a 120-cow Dairy Star Sponsor: dairy. My jobs on the farm Bongards’ Creameries are milking cows, feeding Norwood-Young calves, bedding pens and America, MN picking up bales in the 952-277-5500 summer. My future plans Leedstone are to either work for a Melrose, MN large airline or run a small 320-256-3303 municipal airport.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Many people that I meet have little to no idea what a dairy farm is or what the term dairy princess means.

I feel that my position, as an ambassador to the dairy industry, is important in educating people who otherwise would never know. I love my job as dairy princess because I can tell people what it is that dairy farmers do for not only my county, but also for the nation.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? A lot of what is circulating around in the media is that cows’ milk is unhealthy for the body and people are encouraging others to live dairy-free. The most important message to the public is that dairy is healthy and contains essential nutrients for bone health, thyroid health, cardiovascular health, energy production and immune function.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. With elementary-aged kids, I think it is important to implement an activity while learning a topic. I would love to make ice cream in a bag or butter.

With the activity, I would teach about the importance of consuming dairy products while showing them how good dairy can be with the products we made. I also like to show them the process of how milk gets into their fridge and I could do that with a video from Midwest Dairy and pictures from my own farm.

Parents: Jeff and Tammie Paulson Town: Atwater Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have grown up on my family’s thirdgeneration dairy farm where we milk 50 Milking Shorthorns. I take care of all youngstock and help with milking and tending Morgan Paulson, 18 to the milk cows. I am a Dairy Star Sponsor: freshman at the Univer- Bongards’ Creameries sity of Wisconsin-River Norwood-Young Falls where I am studying America, MN dairy science and ag busi952-277-5500 ness. I hope to become a dairy cattle nutritionist and someday take over the farm from my dad.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I love being able to go to different areas of the state to share my knowledge of the dairy industry. I also enjoy meeting other dairy farmers and hearing how they run their farms so I am better able to run my farm.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Consumers should know how good dairy is for their bodies. By consuming three servings of dairy a

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would talk to them about how milk gets from the cow to their kitchen table. I would share this information by creating a presentation with different pictures from the farm all the way to when they pick up the milk at the grocery store.

Lincoln County Parents: Roxanne and Bruce Nielsen Town: Russell Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Russell-TylerRuthton High School. I live on a small farm with my family where we raise Hereford cattle. I am involved in 4-H, basketball, Johannah Nielsen, softball, band, choir, FFA, 18 FCCLA and National Dairy Star Sponsor: Honor Society. I work at Gorter’s Clay Prairie Line Farm where and Dairy I help milk and take care Pipestone, MN of 250 Holstein cows, 507-825-3271 as well as the calves. I plan on attending South Dakota State University majoring in animal science with pre-veterinary and dairy production emphasis. I also plan to minor in ag business and possibly Spanish. I hope to one day be able to have a herd of either Holstein or Jersey cows as well as a herd of Hereford cattle.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I love advocating for agriculture especially for the dairy industry, and I love meeting and socializing with other people. I’ve been showing dairy cattle in 4-H for 10 years. I have exhibited a dairy cow twice at the Minnesota State Fair, and both times I loved being able to talk to people about cows and the dairy industry. One year, I took a heifer to the fair, and while I was waiting in the staging area, I decided to walk her over to the gate to let people pet her. I enjoyed doing that and answering people’s questions about her and about the industry. The next year, I took that same heifer back as a cow and had to hand-milk her myself while I was there. Watching the fairgoers’ reactions to me milking her was priceless. I even let people come up and milk her. Being a dairy princess will provide me with many more experiences similar to these ones, and I couldn’t be more excited about it. Sharing my dairy story with people is something that never fails to give me great joy.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

There is a big issue right now with the many fake facts surrounding the industry, as a whole, as well as the milk itself. These rumors are about where the milk truly comes from, the use of antibiotics and whether they get into the milk, and the nutritional value of milk. I believe it’s extremely important that we do all we can to explain why these rumors aren’t true. I’ve seen too many posts on social media of people urging others to ditch dairy. Too many people are turning away from milk and away from the industry. That is why I think one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers is the truth and attempting to put a stop to the rumors.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would talk about a few different dairyrelated topics, but I would keep it simple so that it’s easy for them to understand since they’re only third graders. I would also try to make it fun and interactive to keep them engaged and entertained. I would Lincoln County continued on next page

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use a slideshow presentation, but I would try to use plenty of pictures. I would also try to bring in a few demonstrative props. The topics I would talk about would include the life cycle of a dairy cow, why dairy is good for you and essential for your diet, and a few simple recipes they can make at home with their favorite dairy products.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farmers care for their animals, contrary to how the media portrays a typical dairy farm. Farmers strive to improve the health and well-being of their livestock because they genuinely care for their animals. Along with animal safety, farmers use responsible practices to keep all of their products safe for consumers. It is important that people know their food is coming from a safe place and the animals are treated humanely.

Parents: Paul and Heather Wright Town: Hutchinson

Parents: Jerry and Jenni Wendland Town: Arco

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. Most young children are unaware and uneducated about where their food comes from. I would present the path of dairy products from the farm to their table, and why it is important to incorporate them into their diet. It is important to teach kids at a young age where their food comes from and how it is produced. I would present this information along with entertaining activities.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Russel-Tyler-Ruthton High School. School activities that I participate in are National Honor Society and volleyball. I also take part in 4-H and club volleyball. The farm that I live on is a smaller dairy farm based in southwest Minnesota. My future plans are to go to school to get a degree in interior design and to continue my volleyball career.

Lexi Wendland, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess is important to me because it will allow me to experience opportunities that I wouldn’t normally get to experience. It would also be an opportunity for me to educate people that don’t know very much about the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? What the dairy industry looks to them isn’t what it is made out to be. Many dairy farmers are having to sell out due to dairy prices not being high enough to allow farmers to be more protable.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would explain the process of how their different dairy products get to their table, and all the steps needed in order to receive their dairy products.

I would present this in a slideshow format, but also include videos that would be helpful for them to understand at times that are appropriate.

Martin County Parents: Mark and Joanna Lange Town: Sherburn Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am the middle child and have four sisters.

I am a senior at Martin County West High School, and after graduation I plan to attend the University of St. Thomas to obtain Lexie Lange, 18 a degree in business. My Dairy Star Sponsor: family owns and operates Martin County Dairy a dairy farm of 140 HolAssociation stein and crossbred cows along with 300 acres of land. This is a third-generation dairy farm established in 1946.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It is important to promote a positive image of the dairy industry to consumers, and I enjoy representing all of the dedicated dairy farmers. I take pride in being able to answer questions from consumers while educating them about what farmers do, why they do it, and why dairy products are an important part of a person’s diet.

McLeod County Parents: Kraig and Rachelle Krienke Town: Lester Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on my family’s sixth-generation dairy farm with my parents and two younger brothers. We milk 420 Holstein cattle. I manage newborn calves, feed youngstock and assist with herd health. I am involved in 4-H, FFA and National Honor Society. Upon graduating from Lester Prairie High School, I am going to South Dakota State University to major in dairy production.

Elizabeth Krienke, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: First District Association Litcheld, MN 320-693-3236 Leedstone Melrose, MN 320-256-3303

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? Being a dairy princess is important to me because it’s much more than a sparkly crown. Consumers need to know where their products come from, and I am happy to share my passion with those consumers in my community. With the decline in markets, it is essential to encourage individuals to enjoy the delicious and nutritious product that dairy farmers produce.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I love to share with consumers that farmers put the needs of the farm before their own. It is important to stress the dedication that individuals put in for the welfare of the cows. Dairy farmers provide cows with a comfortable living space, fresh feed and water every day. This message is vital to share with others because the care that these cows receive enables them to produce a delicious product.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would focus on the nutritional value of milk and other dairy products. It is important to know what milk can provide that other energy or sports drinks can’t. To help engage the kids, I would bring in visual aids that show some of the ways we keep our cows happy and healthy in order to produce a delicious, nutritious product for them to consume. I would have a slide presentation to go along with what I am talking about as well as delicious dairy treats to sample.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live with my family on a dairy farm south of Hutchinson. We milk 55 Holsteins, raise cash crops and Aronia berries.

My jobs on the farm consist of milking, cleaning allies, feeding, bedding, Breanna Wright, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: and driving skid steer and tractors during eldwork. Munson Lakes Nutrition Howard Lake, MN I love being a part of the 320-543-2561 agricultural community and meeting new people through any opportunities I am given. I will be attending South Dakota State University to pursue a degree in agricultural business and communication.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I believe it is important to promote the dairy industry positively and to show the pubic a smiling face they can ask questions. Our industry is important not only for producing milk, but for our role in a healthy economy as well. Growing up on a farm enabled me to have a rst-hand experience that consumers are not exposed to. I think it is valuable to share my experiences and direct knowledge of dairy and agriculture with consumers.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? It is important for consumers to know that dairy products are healthy and safe. Dairy is a great source of calcium, potassium, protein and vitamin D. Farmers care for their herds by making sure their animals are healthy, so they produce high quality milk. Today, our world is full of tips in how to stay healthy and eat better. Milk is a perfect and natural beverage that can be made into many other great foods.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. Kids love animals, so I would start by talking about the life from calf to cow. I would bring in feed for the students to see, touch and smell. I would bring in pictures of my farm and a live calf, if I am able to. There are a lot of interesting fun facts to share that would keep the student’s attention, like how much cows eat, drink and produce in a day to produce milk.

Meeker County Parents: Josh and Lynn Barka Town: Litcheld Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s 350-Holstein cow dairy.

I enjoy feeding and caring for our 75 calves as well as helping with other tasks around the farm. I Natalie Barka, 17 plan to attend the UniverDairy Star Sponsor: sity of Minnesota for bioFirst District systems and bioproducts Association engineering. My goal is to Litcheld, MN fulll a career in the dairy 320-693-3236 processing industry and eventually start my own creamery in conjunction with my family’s farm.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It allows me to share my dairy story. I am able to connect with my community by serving dairy products and by teaching younger children. I am lled with pride as I watch the smile spread across people’s faces, no matter what age, as I hand them a dairy treat.

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What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

The most important aspect of dairy is the resilience and closeness of its farmers. The ability for farmers to overcome obstacles and continue to provide a wholesome product for consumers is admirable. Emphasizing the values of dairy farm families is crucial. Dairy farming is a family-based community; 97 percent of all U.S. farms are family-owned. The dairy farmer’s mission is to provide care for each animal in order to produce nutritious products.

Parents: Sarah and Perry Kuechle Town: Eden Valley

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

How dairy farmers care for their animals. Dairy farmers put everything they have into their farms. Making sure the cows are happy and healthy is the farmer’s main goal. With the technology that is available, it is easier than ever for consumers to nd incorrect or misleading information about the dairy community.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would start off with an interactive slideshow to aid in the explanation of the eight farm-totable steps. I would teach and explore The Online Farm Experience with the class. The highlight of my presentation would be making ice cream using bags.

I would distribute a letter to parents providing a lesson outline, other resources and the recipe to the ice cream.

Parents: Scott and Denise Gathje Town: Richmond Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up working on my family’s 70-cow dairy and enjoy helping with chores around the farm. I also work on a 120-cow dairy nearby where I do relief milking.

I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota majoring in agriculture communication and marketing. I hope to someday work for a cooperative or checkoff organization in the agriculture industry.

Katherine Gathje, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: AgVenture Feed & Seed Inc. Watkins, MN 320-764-9910

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I have the opportunity to connect with so many people.

I am able to put on my crown and sash and speak to anyone about the importance of dairy foods and represent everyone who helps to produce those products.

I am also the face of all the farmers and am able to share with consumers the care farmers give to their animals at all hours of the day or night.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? It is most important to share with consumers the quality of care that is given to our animals. It doesn’t matter how large or small the farm is, the priority is that the cows are healthy and well cared for. Farmers are constantly working to ensure the animals have the right nutrition and living conditions.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. It is best to start with reading them a story.

That story can include important information about the farm and some fun facts because that is the best way to get children to remember what they learned.

I would then give them a coloring sheet with different dairy foods on it and some facts about them. This would then allow me time to answer their questions one-on-one.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Eden Valley-Watkins High School. I live on a dairy farm where we milk 220 Holstein cows. Along with my job on my dairy farm, I have a job feeding calves for NexGen Dairy.

This fall, I will be attending South Dakota State University to major in dairy production to hopefully nd a career as a geneticist.

Shelby Kuechle, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: AgVenture Feed & Seed Inc. Watkins, MN 320-764-9910

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I do it for my absolute favorite dairy farmer, my dad.

I have always looked up to my dad when it came to his career and his lifestyle. I see how hard he works ,day in and day out. It is important to me to be a voice for him and other dairy farmers. I have an extreme passion for the dairy community and feel my voice can be amplied tenfold through the dairy princess program.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farmers are committed to providing consumers with safe, high quality milk and dairy products. Too often, consumers are led to believe that this is false. This leads to a decrease in dairy food consumption, and hurts dairy farmers, their families, and even the local economy. Dairy farmers work far too hard to have people believe that they do not care for their animals.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would create a presentation with lots of pictures of various events that happen on my farm on a daily basis. These would include milking, feeding the cows and calves, and cleaning out pens. At the end of my presentation, I would hand out pre-made bingo cards and ask questions about what I had just presented so they can showcase what they just learned. Winners would get a cheese stick.

Parents: Greg and Patti Meyer Town: Grove City Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at ACGC High School. I serve as the FFA vice president. I am also a PSEO student at Ridgewater College in Willmar and will be receiving my AA degree Maggie Meyer, 18 in May. I live on my famDairy Star Sponsor: ily’s dairy farm where we Munson Lakes Nutrition milk 60 Holsteins. I milk a Howard Lake, MN few times a week and help 320-543-2561 with other miscellaneous chores on the weekends. I plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to pursue a degree in dairy science.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I get to represent the hard-working farmers that dedicate their lives to their animals. I have a passion for the dairy community, and I love being able to share that with consumers. Being a county princess has put me in the position to be able to interact with consumers during many community events. I love being able to inform them on the practices we use on our farm.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would focus mainly on why getting three servings of dairy is so important. Nowadays, more and more children are choosing other drink alternatives over milk. I would remind them of the vitamins and nutrients that are offered in dairy foods, and I would plan a fun activity to make sure the information sticks with them.

Mille Lacs County Parents: Joe and Wanda Deglman Town: Princeton Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a small dairy farm of about 25 head. Our family farm is run by my dad ever since he bought the farm. He has operated it for about 25 years. My siblings and I help my dad on the farm whenever and wherever needed. My grandparents were also dairy farmers, which makes me a thirdgeneration dairy farmer.

In the future, I plan to continue helping my dad on the farm.

Emily Deglman, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Foreston Creamery, Foreston MN 320-294-5711 Fluegge’s Ag Mora, MN 320-679-2981

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess is important to me because it is a great way to talk to the public about the dairy industry. I enjoy talking to the public and answering questions they might have about dairy or the dairy industry. When I talk to the public about dairy, it makes me proud to be a dairy farmer. As a dairy princess, I represent many dairy farmers in my county, state, and country.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Consumers would like to hear about how safe their milk is to consume. I would explain to them that there are many strict measures to keep milk safe to consume. This is important to share because many people think milk is not safe to consume, but they should know there is absolutely nothing to worry about. Dairy farmers are devoted to producing safe dairy products.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share with them the process of how their milk gets from the farm to their fridge. This is something they would care about and would enjoy learning about. My presentation would have a visual aid, so they could look at pictures and understand the presentation easier. I would ask them questions, and when they answer they would receive a sticker.

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Morrison County Parents: Josh Dickmann and Linda Dickmann Town: Pierz Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on my dad’s farm where we milk 100 cows. I do most of the night milking by myself. I also help with the calves and youngstock, eldwork and any other chores. After I graduate from high school in May, I am planning on going to Ridgewater College for dairy management. I am planning on coming home and taking over the farm to be the fth generation.

Elizabeth Dickmann, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: AMPI Paynesville Division www.ampi.com

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I get to spread the word on how the dairy industry works, and I get to promote dairy products. I am working with a great group of dairy princesses in Morrison County, and we will be doing many fun activities throughout the year to promote the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? As farmers, we want our products to be healthy and safe, and we strive to make that happen. We take care of our animals and protect the land.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would create a PowerPoint of chores I do with pictures around my farm. I would explain to the classroom types of chores that I do and why. Most children like seeing videos and pictures of young animals. I would add pictures and videos of how cows are milked in our parlor. When I do a classroom visit, I would plan on making butter in a jar with them. It is a simple process that I feel they would enjoy.

Morrison County continued

present it. I would share where the milk comes from and what milk can all be used for. I would also use about the dairy industry and the nutritional benets pictures to show milking and other aspects of a dairy dairy products offer. farm as well as other animals and operations.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. The information I have shared and would Parents: John and Kelly continue to share is the milking process. For example, Theis how a cow is milked and the process it goes through Town: Little Falls to reach the consumer. I did this by presenting a slideshow, books, agriculture magazines and hands onTell us about yourself, activities. the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a student at the University of Minnesota. After graduating with a degree in animal science in May, I will continue my educaParents: Al and Lynette tion, beginning veterinary Mullenbach Eliza Theis, 21 school in the fall. I work Town: Rose Creek Dairy Star Sponsor: at Enchanted Dairy in LitCentra Sota tle Falls, mainly with the Tell us about yourself, Little Falls, MN calves. the farm you live and/ 320-632-3631 or work on, or your parWhy is being a dairy ents work on, and your princess important to future plans. I am in my you? I have aspired to be a dairy princess since I was second semester at Iowa a little girl. I love talking about the dairy industry and State University majorsharing my story with consumers who are interested ing in dairy science with in learning about how their delicious dairy products a minor in agricultural get to their plate. business. My passion for the dairy industry be- Julia Mullenbach, 18 What do you think is one of the most important gan at a young age, after Dairy Star Sponsor: dairy messages to share with consumers right now? leasing and showing my Reads Brown Swiss I think it is important to make sure consumers know rst Brown Swiss heifer.

Austin, MN about how nutritious dairy products are. They contain Since then, I have begun 507-438-4416 nine essential nutrients and are naturally healthy for working for Reads Brown both children and adults.

Swiss of Lyle. Although I am unsure of what my If you had the opportunity to give a classroom pre- future holds, I am condent it will include the dairy sentation to third graders, describe what kind of industry. information you would share and how you would present it. I would present information about what a Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I dairy cow’s everyday life looks like and the ways in have the opportunity to share the industry that I love which farmers work to make their cows happy and with consumers. I look forward to educating consumproduce nutritious milk for dairy products. I would ers, as well as hoping to host farm tours and attend bring in something to show, such as a milking unit for classroom visits. I am looking forward to the opportuthe kids to touch and pass around. nity to thank consumers for their continuous support of dairy farmers.

Mower County

Parents: Darrel and Amy Saehr Town: Pierz

Parents: Shawn and Sarah Winscher Town: Pierz

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my parents’ farm, where we milk 170 cows, run 1,000 acres of cropland and manage two pig barns for Wakeeld Pork. I am a senior at Pierz Healy High School and plan to attend Minnesota State-Wadena in the fall to earn my degree in cosmetology.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am senior at Pierz Healy High School. I am involved in cross country, track and FFA. After high school, I am attending Solid Rock School of Discipleship, and later becoming an ag teacher. I grew up on a dairy farm. We milk about 100 cows. Our herd consists of a variety of different breeds. I usually milk and feed calves with two younger brothers. I never got a chance to do eld work.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I feel I will be able to have many good experiences while working with others to support and promote the dairy industry.

Holly Saehr, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Athman Dairy Inc. Pierz, MN 320-468-2494 Pierz Co-op Pierz MN 320-468-6655 Sunrise Ag Buckman MN 800-307-5346 Leedstone Melrose, MN 320-256-3303

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Make dairy a large portion of your daily diet. Dairy is a good source of calcium and a good portion of a balanced diet that can make a difference in your health in the short and long run.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would

Meeker County continued

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? With a small portion of the country being dairy farmers, I feel the need to be advocating for the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farmers treat their animals with the utmost care and respect at all times. Dairy farmers treat their animals with this exceptional care not only to ensure a prot, but because they have a passion for what they do. Educating consumers on the safety of milk due to timely management practices is important.

Samantha Winscher, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Athman Dairy Inc. Pierz, MN 320-468-2494 Fluegge’s Ag Mora, MN 320-679-2981 Litke’s Veterinary Service Pierz, MN 320-468-6666 Sunrise Ag Buckman, MN 800-307-5346

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? It is important to know the source of your food.

Sharing this message is important so people can make connections to the food they are eating and understand the connection from farm to fork. Sharing with consumers how food is produced gives them knowledge

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. The information I would share would concern the practices that occur on a dairy farm, as well as the healthy nutrition of dairy products. I would supplement these presentations with the use of visuals. Visuals used would include common dairy equipment as well as samples of new dairy products and a variety of avors of milk.

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Parents: Mike and Vicki Rossow Town: Dexter Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a farm with 40 dairy cows.

My mom and dad started the farm, and now my sister runs it. My future plans include working at Casey’s gas station until I get my CDL in the near future.

Abby Rossow, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: Meyerhofer Bagging Stacyville, IA 507-259-5863

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I want to tell people about the dairy industry and how important dairy farmers are.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? How important dairy farms are to the economy.

We need to keep the family dairy farms alive, not only for nutritional purposes, but also for keeping the family bond.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would tell them about the importance of dairy farms and how much they impact our communities.

Murray County Parents: Jodi and David Beckmann Town: Slayton Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at South Dakota State University in Brookings, S.D. I am majoring in animal science pre-vet with a minor in animal health and chemistry. My family Mariah Beckman, 19 owns a dairy farm where Dairy Star Sponsor: we also raise Berkshire Murray County Dairy hogs. I enjoy milking, Association helping out with chores Schwartz Lake Beauty and doing eld work. I Dairy Farm plan to stay and work in 507-836-8304 southwest Minnesota and settle down on a farm somewhere close to my hometown of Slayton.

Olmsted County continued

these are it strengthens their bones and teeth and is a good source of energy, which helps with the building and repair of muscle tissue. I would encourage them to seek out dairy products rather than sport drinks.

Along with an activity that would promote all the benets that dairy products provide them with.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I want to encourage people to put dairy into their lives.

There is a disconnect between farmers and consumers. I want to bridge the gap between the farm and the grocery store. I want to represent the dairy community by being a real person people can meet.

Nobles County

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

Reassuring consumers that dairy is healthy and safe is the most important message we can bring. There is misinformation about milk that isn’t true. The worry that milk is unsafe or unhealthy is one of the biggest reasons people don’t drink milk, so I want to bring the message of the health and safety of milk.

Parents: Clay and Dannielle Weg Town: Worthington Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a dairy where my dad, his brothers and their dad started and continue to run a 1,300-head farm. I am a senior in high school and participate in volleyball, basketball, golf and FFA. I have a part-time job and work on the farm during the summer. In the fall, I will attend Southwest Minnesota State University to study biology with a focus in pre-med.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would tell about my farm (with a few pictures), have some information on the life of a cow, present the steps from farm to grocery store and give a few fun facts (for example, how a cow drinks a bath tub of water each day).

Anneke Weg, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Bioverse Inc. Worthington, MN 507-727-1000

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I’ve grown up around farming and enjoy working with cattle. I am passionate about agriculture and enjoy getting to teach others about the dairy lifestyle.

Therefore, by being a dairy princess, I can bring awareness and familiarity of the farming lifestyle to the public.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? One of the most important messages to share is of cow comfort and animal care. There are many misconceptions that cows are maltreated, which tends to keep people from supporting and consuming dairy products. I want them to know that farmers do their absolute best to ensure that their cows are receiving great care so they are comfortable, happy and healthy.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would present the children with a glass of milk and food coloring to allow them to have something to interact with. While they are enjoying their milk, I would begin by explaining that cows do more than moo, they make many dairy products like milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, etc. Next, I would go over a cow’s life cycle using appropriate vocabulary (calf, heifer, lactation, etc.). I would wrap-up by telling the children about the variety of different dairy cows. Before leaving, I would serve the children a homemade Why is being a dairy princess important to you? chocolate chip cookie with real butter and milk.

Being a dairy princess is important to me because I want to help spread the word that dairy is important to everyone. I want to teach children that milk will help them grow up to be big and strong, being healthy will help them achieve their dreams. Being a dairy princess is a great commitment and I want to fulll that Parents: Paul and Susan commitment to the best of my ability.

Kyllo Town: Byron What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right Tell us about yourself, now? The most important dairy message to share the farm you live and/ with consumers right now is that dairy products can or work on, or your parhelp them achieve their dreams. Being better physi- ents work on, and your cally and mentally, will help them to excel whether future plans. My family it is daily activities or extra nutrition needed while and I live on a 90-cow participating in educational/sporting events. With the dairy. I am the youngrecommended servings of dairy products each day, est of four sisters. I entheir bodies will be able to achieve anything. joy reading, music and watching the Minnesota If you had the opportunity to give a classroom pre- Twins. I am active on our Amy Kyllo, 18 sentation to third graders, describe what kind of farm with duties including Dairy Star Sponsor: information you would share and how you would feeding calves, milking Ag Partners present it. If I had to give a presentation to third grad- cows, helping put up for651-923-4496 ers, I’d share all the benets that dairy has. Some of age and helping with miscellaneous jobs that arise.

Olmsted County

Parents: Charlie and Carrie Sachs Town: Eyota Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a fourth generation dairy farmer who works on my family’s 75-cow dairy farm that is mainly registered Holsteins and Brown Swiss.

I am currently a senior at Dover-Eyota High School and have been involved in FFA, 4-H and Student Council. I plan to attend South Dakota State University majoring in ag education and communications with a dairy science minor.

AnnaMarie Sachs, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Priority IAC, Tom Hurley authorized reseller 507-269-8044

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

We are the connection between the farmers and the consumers, because the farmers can’t always be there to answer the questions that people have. That’s where we come in. I also get to show the passion I have for my animals and the industry I am blessed to be apart of.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Why? Farmers make sure that our animals are well taken care of so that they can produce a wholesome and nutritious product for us to enjoy. Consumers want to know where their food comes from and who are the people behind the product, if we can share that message with the public they will feel more comfortable with us.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would explain the process of how milk gets from the cow to them. First I would ask the kids where they think their food comes from, I then would go into a virtual map that shows the path and explain it in a way that they would be able to comprehend. To end it off I would hand out some milk and cookies and answer any questions the kids have.

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Parents: Stephen Nancy Uthke Town: Eyota

erences are changing and fewer people’s bodies can tolerate the lactose in milk. The dairy community is responding by offering products that entail to everyone, including milk with lactose removed, organically produced milk, milk produced from cows not treated with hormones and hundreds of kinds of cheeses.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

It’s my chance to help represent the dairy industry, particularly small family farms.

and

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Dover-Eyota and live on a dairy farm with my parents and younger siblings, Marcus and Katrina. We have a small farm with 40 milking Heidi Uthke, 18 cows. I am involved in Dairy Star Sponsor: FFA on the forestry team Elba Co-op Creamery and 4-H where I exhibit Elba, MN crafts and show my cows.

507-932-3861 I plan on continuing my education in college and pursuing a degree in business administration.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess has been one of my dreams ever since I was a little girl. I wanted to follow in my aunt’s footsteps as an Olmsted County Dairy Princess. I can give the public an insight into my life as a dairy farmer, which has taught me wonderful things that I love to share as a dairy princess.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farmers love their cows. They take the very best care of them, and they are outside on the coldest days taking care of a sick calf. They are also proudly taking pictures of our newest calves to send to a family member who missed an important birth.

The cows are their priority.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would bring in a calf and teach them about a cow’s life on the farm. I would explain how we use hutches to keep calves safe and monitor their health. I would also talk to them about the different barns a cow stays in, and our periodic herd checks with the vet making sure all the cows are happy and healthy.

Parents: Donny and Holly Thompson Town: Plainview Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. On my family’s farm, Little Valley Dairy, we milk 170 registered Holsteins. In addition to our dairy, we farm 1,000 acres of corn, sweet corn, soybeans, peas, al- Catherine Thompson, falfa and rye grass. I am 19 nishing my freshman Dairy Star Sponsor: year at the University Beck Implement of Minnesota-Twin CitElgin, MN ies where I am studying 507-876-2122 agricultural communications and marketing. My Benson Farm Service Lewiston, MN career goal is to assist 507-523-2188 dairy farmers with their marketing needs and continue to be an advocate for the industry.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. First, I would put together a video tour of my family’s farm. I would begin the presentation by showing the video and then take any questions the students may have. This would be the best way to engage in conversations that are important to them. I would tell them about my daily jobs on the farm. Highlighting the young calves, the milking process and family teamwork would be key elements of my presentation.

East Otter Tail County Parents: Victor and Janine Roers Town: Urbank Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am attending college at the University of Minnesota-Crookston. I am majoring in agricultural business with a minor in horticulture. On the Grace Roers, 19 weekends, I come home to help with the chores. Our Dairy Star Sponsor: farm consists of 28 Hol- Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op stein milking cows with 50 of Urbank, MN youngstock. After college, 218-267-2401 I hope to get a job working with farmers and their businesses.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being a dairy princess means a lot to me because of how involved I am in my family’s dairy. Having grown up on a farm and working with animals from the time I could walk, I enjoy the opportunity to get out in the community and talk about what I am passionate about.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? All animals on a dairy farm are treated humanely and antibiotics are only used when prescribed by a vet. There are never any traces of antibiotic residue that go into consumers’ milk.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. It would be fun to play a trivia game with them with facts about cows and dairy products in general. I would also make butter in a jar. With this group activity, the kids would take turns shaking the jar and passing it down. This way they learn how to make something they probably all eat.

West Otter Tail County Parents: Dennis and Melissa Fronning Town: Battle Lake

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I’m the third oldest of 13 children. My family runs a small organic dairy.

I plan to attend North Dakota State College of Science in the fall working toward becoming a certiWhat do you think is one of the most important ed occupational therapist dairy messages to share with consumers right assistant. now? It is important for consumers to know there are a variety of dairy products in the grocery store and there is something for everyone. Consumer prefWhy is being a dairy princess important to you?

The opportunity of serving as a dairy princess allows me to engage with non-agriculturalists and share my dairy story. It is important for each of us to share our personal story and take part in conversations that allow us to recognize the other’s point of view. I want to assist in communicating about our great community and debunk the misconceptions and confusions of the industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? That farmers care about their animals, as well as producing a quality product. As the consumer is increasingly disconnected from the source of their food, it is important to remind them that dairy farmers are men and women doing their best to feed their families, communities and their world.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. With the help of pictures, I would educate them on the process of the milk getting from the cow in the pasture to their dinner table.

Parents: Jon and Michelle Petterson Town: Fergus Falls Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at North Dakota State College of Science-Wahpeton majoring in nursing. My goal is to become a trauma nurse/ER nurse and work in the helicopters. Autum Petterson, 19 I work for Dreyer Dairy Dairy Star Sponsor: Farm where they milk 460 cows twice a day, and Pro Dairy, Wadena, MN 218-632-5416 I have shown cattle for Dreyer Dairy Farm Holmgren Holsteins. We Ottertail, MN sold our dairy in 2001 but continue to farm. My dad passed away from cancer in June of 2014, so it’s just my mom, sister and I running the farm.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I want to be an advocate for an industry that has taught me so much. Being a princess has given me the opportunity to share my knowledge and experiences with people in my community. I’m being a role model for the younger generation, and that is the most important thing to me; giving them someone to look up to, learn from and experience things they haven’t before.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Get to know your local producers. They are the bread and butter of the industry, and they work day and night to provide high quality, wholesome milk to our shelves. No matter if they are big or small, they care immensely for their animals and want to give you the best of the best.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would give a PowerPoint presentation showing the journey milk takes from farm to shelf.

I would begin by showing the kids how cows have a set schedule everyday just like they do, and how important it is to keep them on that schedule. Then I would explain how cows are milked, how the milk goes from the parlor to the bulk tanks and all the way to transportation off the farm.

West Otter Tail County continued on next page

Linnea Fronning, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Ashby Elevator Ashby, MN 218-747-2948

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018 • Page 13

West Otter Tail County continued

Pine County continued

Parents: Chad and Teresa Thornton Town: Pelican Rapids

know that dairy farmers are struggling to stay in business. By knowing that they can help by purchasing for dairy products instead of almond beverages is a step in the right direction to increase sales.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I nished my freshman year at the University of North Dakota. My major is medical lab science on a pre-medicine track in hopes of attending medical school in the future. I Mason Thornton, 19 work at Lida Acres where Dairy Star Sponsor: we milk 75 registered HolLida-Acres steins and ve registered Pelican Rapids, MN Brown Swiss.

Check out Lida-Acres

Holsteins on facebook

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would explain how the milk is taken from cows by machines, put into the bulk tank for cooling, picked up by the milk truck driver and brought to the plant. Then explain how the milk is tested for antibiotics and pumped into the holding tanks until processed and shipped to grocery stores; where their parents buy the milk and bring it home. I would bring cheese sticks for them to enjoy.

Pope County continued What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Over the last 20 years, the dairy industry has changed a lot. With all the technical advancements, the dairy industry has been able to make products for all types of consumers. I would share this with the consumers because it is important for people to realize things have changed a lot and there are so many different types of products for all types of people.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would talk to the children about the important role cows play in our society. I would talk about how everything a cow produces is reused in some way. I would make a fun slide show and offer the children a dairy treat.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I am able to represent the dairy farms in my county. I am also able to be a part of informing the public about the dairy industry, while meeting other girls who have the same passion as I do.

Parents: Nathan and Suzanna Nelson Town: Hinckley

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Milk is lled with many nutrients that are difcult to match in most non-dairy milk alternatives.

With people switching from dairy milk to non-dairy milk, the sales of dairy milk have been suffering, which in turn effects farmers. When looking at it from the health perspective, dairy milk has natural sugars and more nutrients than non-dairy milk does.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I help at my grandparents’ farm. I enjoy helping my cousins Leah Nelson, 17 prepare their calves for the Dairy Star Sponsor: county fair. I love readFluegge’s Ag ing and really enjoy my Why is being a dairy Mora, MN classes at Renville County princess important to 320-679-2981 West High School. I also Daniella Ridl, 18 you? I am representing Pierz Co-op work quite a bit at the Dairy Star Sponsor: my farm and the dairy inPierz, MN nursing home in Olivia.

D&D Ag Supply dustry.

320-468-6655 If I’m not at work at the & Construction farm or the nursing home, Pennock, MN What do you think is one I’m spending time with 320-599-4466 of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I want people to understand my little sister. the importance of drinking and eating dairy products.

I don’t think many people realize how important dairy Why is being a dairy princess important to you? is in their diet. Many people are nding alternatives A lot of people take the dairy industry for granted. for milk thinking that it is healthier, but it is not natu- I want to spread awareness to the importance of the ral milk. It has been processed to make it like milk, dairy industry and educate people on where their milk products actually come from. Being a dairy princess whereas cow milk is always milk. for Renville County is an amazing opportunity for me If you had the opportunity to give a classroom pre- as well. I get to meet many people and to encourage sentation to third graders, describe what kind of the younger generation to participate in the dairy ininformation you would share and how you would dustry. present it. I would present to them how the milk they drink gets from the cow to them. I would have picture What do you think is one of the most important of cows getting milked, milk processing and milk in dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The dairy industry is incredibly important to stores. the United States economy. It is the second largest agricultural commodity. Farmers are economically and politically powerful forces. They can make a difference in their community and their state.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would do a presentation on the milking process and the nutrients found in milk. Many kids know milk comes from cows, but they maybe don’t know how it’s done. I would also list what essential nutrients are in milk and how those nutrients help their bodies. I would do this using a PowerPoint with pictures and videos and more verbal explanations so that they would stay interested.

Pine County Parents: Harold and Lisa Schugel Town: Hinckley

Harth

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on my family owned and operated farm; Birchat Dairy, where we are milking 120 Holsteins and registered Jerseys. I plan to attend the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities in the fall to major in agricultural communication and marketing and minor in animal science with an emphasis on dairy production. I hope to become employed by Midwest Dairy as a spokesperson to help with programs such as Fuel Up to Play 60.

Renville County

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior and taking college classes as a PSEO student. We milk 50 cows in a tiestall barn. After I graduate, I would like to get an animal science degree and possibly go to vet school.

Pope County

Ellen Harth, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: East Central Dairy Supply Mora, MN 320-697-1029 Fluegge’s Ag Mora, MN 320-679-2981

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I am able to advocate for the industry I love most in many different ways. Whether that be at parades, schools, breakfasts on the farm and fairs. With the decreasing number of dairy farmers in Minnesota, it is important to share a positive image of the cow and her products to the consumer; inuencing them to purchase a fresh, wholesome product from dairy farmers.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Consumers should buy local dairy products.

Recently, milk plants and grocery stores have been rejecting milk from other smaller operations. With the declining milk prices, it’s essential for consumers to

Parents: Thomas Carol Feldman Town: Brooten

and

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I will be graduating in June from Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa High School. I am involved with my school choir and have played tennis all throughout my Amanda Feldman, high school career. I have 18 been working for Aaron Dairy Star Sponsor: and Jessica Radermacher Feed Co. since May of 2015. We are Paynesville, MN milking 200 cows twice 320-243-3938 a day. I will be going to Bethel University and getting degrees in business and psychology.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I have always been around the dairy industry. I truly love talking about cows and being involved with the animals.

Parents: Jared Ridl Town: Danube

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share with them the importance of agriculture and the importance of recycling and keeping our earth clean. We can only do so much with our earth before we harm it beyond repair. If we start teaching the younger generation the error of our ways so we do not repeat it, we would all have a better future.

Page 14 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018

Rock County

Parents: Cal and Char Lubben Town: Edgerton Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a dairy farm close to the Nobles County border. On our farm, we milk 350 cows twice a day in a double-12 parlor. We also grow corn and alfalfa and some soybeans. I am a freshman at South Dakota State University where I am majoring in dairy production with minors in ag business and ag marketing.

Calissa Lubben, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Today’s society doesn’t know where their delicious food comes from. These people often get the wrong ideas about how farmers treat their animals according to PETA. Some people don’t even know that cows are the ones that produce milk. Cows are given a well-formulated diet by a dairy nutritionist, so the cow can reach her full potential. As proud producers, we should make sure the public knows what they are consuming is a healthy and safe product for their diet.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would explain how milk is produced and processed, and I would tell them the milk their parents buy in the store only takes 24 hours to get there after it is picked up from the farm. I would also educate them how real dairy products provide more nutritional value than other products.

Scott County and

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I love to hang out with friends, read and listen to music. I work for Cindy and Ray Deutsch on their farm, and my job on the farm is to feed the calves and heifers and any other chores they need done.

Scott County continued

milk from, why dairy as a whole is good for us, and I would mention snacks they could have to substitute for dairy.

that your body needs, and it can be useful in so many different ways in your everyday life.

Parents: Sarah Hallcock and Michael Jerde Town: Castle Rock

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

There are a lot of misconceptions about the dairy industry in today’s society. As a dairy princess, I can help educate the public with facts and information about the industry while promoting our safe nutritious product.

Parents: Tracey Cheryl Friedges Town: New Market

Scott County continued

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on two dairy farms. I work at River City Dairy where I milk 375 cows, and I also feed calves for Ray and Cindy Deutsch. I also own a couple of milking cows and Taylor Jerde, 18 a couple of heifers. I plan Dairy Star Sponsor: on earning my bachelor’s Kasper Dairy Supply degree in animal science Northeld, MN with a minor in dairy man612-483-3303 agement at South Dakota State University. I would like to become a pharmaceutical representative, as well as have a small herd of registered Holsteins.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It is important to me to promote what I believe in. I have great faith in the dairy industry, and I believe that it will continue to go uphill and prosper. Dairy farmers are the strongest of all farmers, with the current milk prices. I enjoy educating consumers and the younger generations.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I would like to say that we, as dairy farmers, have a main priority of being sure that our milk is safe for the consumer, and we take pride in what we do.

Dairy farmers love and care for their cows.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would create a fun, interactive slide show with facts about dairy cattle. I would also have them put together an art project of a dairy cow and have them glue their favorite fact they learned about dairy cattle onto their project. I would also like to get an idea about what they know, what they would like to know, and what they love about dairy cattle and dairy products.

Parents: Mike and Tina Stiles Town: Lakeville

Rosalia Friedges, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Friedges Drywall New Market, MN 952-461-3288

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It’s a privilege to be able to represent the dairy industry, and it means a lot to me to be one of the chosen few to do so through this organization.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The dairy industry has been around for a long time and one of the only reasons it’s been around for that long is because of the consumers. The bond between consumers and the dairy industry is a partnership, and without the consumers the dairy industry can’t grow.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would tell them about where we get our

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman math education major at South Dakota State University, and I am involved in Little International and Dairy Club. After I graduate, I would like Laura Stiles, 19 to become a middle/high Dairy Star Sponsor: school math teacher. I live Udder Tech, Inc. on a small hobby farm Lakeville, MN with my family where 952-461-2894 we raise beef cows, goats and sheep. I also work on Cindy and Ray Deutsch’s dairy farm and enjoy helping with whatever I can, but I especially love feeding calves.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I want to help spread the good word about the dairy community. I am an ambassador for all dairy farmers, not only in my county, but all across the state of Minnesota.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? How important milk and other dairy products are for you. Milk provides nine essential nutrients

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share the importance of getting three servings of dairy a day. I would use a PowerPoint to share this information with the classroom, but I would also incorporate a fun hands-on activity to keep the students engaged. Along with the PowerPoint, I would demonstrate fun ways the students could incorporate dairy into their diet.

Sibley County Parents: Aaron and Cari Gronholz Town: Green Isle Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am employed on my grandma’s and uncle’s organic dairy farm. My future plans are to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls majoring in biology and minoring in large animal science with plans to attend veterinarian school.

Olivia Gronholz, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Lano Equipment of Norwood Norwood-Young America 952-467-2181

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I have met many dairy farmers; they are some of the hardest working people I know. It is important to promote the dairy industry and inform the consumers of the industry because of all the hardworking people that contribute to it.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? There are a lot of false rumors about how dairy farmers treat their animals. Dairy farmers care a lot about their animals and do not treat them poorly. The decisions they make about the cows are always for the well-being of the cows.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would give a presentation about all the products that come from a cow’s milk. I would bring the major products; such as, milk, cheese, butter and ice cream. I would explain milk’s nutritional values.

I would also do an interactive activity. I would have them make butter by shaking cream in a jar.

Parents: Scott and Stephanie Krueger Town: Arlington Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and farm side-by-side with my parents where we milk 100 Holstein cows. I do everything from feed newborn calves and heifers to milking cows, to breeding and assisting in the birthing process. My future plans are to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for pre-veterinary with an animal science emphasis.

Madison Krueger, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Form-A-Feed Stewart, MN 320-562-2971

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I have a passion for the industry, and I want to help decrease the amount of people who are misinformed about the dairy industry.

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Sibley County continued

Stearns County continued

Stearns County continued

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The differences between cows’ milk and plantbased milk-like products. As I am doing research to write a speech, I have found many interesting aspects of why people drink those products.

and help to promote the dairy community. I also want to be a role model for all generations, especially the younger generation. If I can change their thinking on the importance of dairy just a little, I will be successful.

Parents: John and Chris Donnay Town: Kimball

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. A day in the life of a farmer. I would share my family’s day in photos from the very start of the day to the very end of the day and put that into a PowerPoint presentation using their own daily life activities as comparisons.

Stearns County Parents: Deanna and Chad Bertram, Danny and Dana Lien Town: Spring Hill Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on an organic farm where we milk 175 cows. I tend to bounce around between roles, but I primarily milk and feed calves. I also take care of my goats. I am attending North Dakota State University for animal and equine sciences, but I’m not sure what I’d like to do with that yet.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would teach the class how milk gets from the farm to their tables. I would inform the kids how the barns have to be kept clean and the cows kept healthy. I would explain how cows are milked and the milk has to be cooled promptly to 40 degrees. I would also talk about transportation, inspections, pasteurization and testing. I would provide pamphlets, use worksheets and do activities with the kids.

Parents: John and Chris Donnay Town: Kimball

Kayle Benesh, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Bork Lumber & Steel Inc, Paynesville, MN 320-243-7815

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I want to be able to share my experiences and knowledge with those who are not familiar with the dairy community so I can spread a positive message about a community that is so important to me.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farms are sustainable and farmers work hard to conserve the land and make decisions with the animals’ best interest in mind. To promote this, I would be active on social media, like Snapchat and Facebook, so I can spread a positive message to many people If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. On dairy farms we care for our animals well by keeping them comfortable and happy. I would also explain how milk is nutritious for the body and can lead to strong bones. I would bring in pictures and posters.

Parents: Jerry and Tammy Breth Town: St. Anthony Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a dairy farm with my parents and three siblings. I have many responsibilities ranging from taking care of the cattle, xing equipment, maintaining buildings and helping with eldwork. I am attending Albany Area High School. I will be attending North Dakota State University. I am planning to major in statistics and agriculture economics.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

I would share with families that dairy farming is not easy and dairy farmers are (and should be) proud of what they do. Just like any other job, farmers would quit if they did not enjoy it. Farmers dedicate a great amount of time to provide wholesome and nutrient rich milk and other dairy products for everyone. This is an important message because most dairy farmers are under appreciated for all of their hard work.

Miranda Breth, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Bork Lumber & Steel Inc, Paynesville, MN 320-243-7815

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It has been something I have been wanting to do for a long time. I want to be an advocate for dairy farmers

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have grown up on my family’s 40-cow organic dairy farm with Holsteins, Jerseys and a few crossbreeds. We also have pigs, chickens, ducks, rabbits, cats and a dog. I help Anna Donnay, 18 morning and evening with Dairy Star Sponsor: milking and oversee the Hartung Sales chickens and ducks. I also & Services Inc. am in charge of keeping Freeport, MN the book records, from 320-836-2697 crops to calves to milk components. My future plans are to open an on-the-farm processing plant producing either yogurt or ice cream, paired with a bakery.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

The dairy industry has been a backbone of my life. I have grown up on a dairy farm my entire life, and I would not have wanted to grow up any other way. The many memories and life lessons that I have learned are things I will never forget and take with me throughout my life. As a dairy princess, I am honored to represent the dairy farmers and promote dairy products in which many hands are working together to produce.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on an organic dairy farm. My family and I milk a mix of Holsteins, Jerseys and a couple crossbreds. We milk in a stanchion barn that holds 40 cows. I prep the cows prior to milking them. I also help with sanitizing and washing the milk machines before and after we milk. I am attending South Dakota State University where I’m majoring in family and consumer science education.

Emily Donnay, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: Hartung Sales & Services Inc. Freeport, MN 320-836-2697

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I have been given the chance to make an impact, which is important to me. Many people are uneducated about what dairy offers communities, from health benets to employment possibilities. I felt the best way for me to reach out to everyone and share what I know about dairy was to become a dairy princess.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? In several studies, research shows that dairy foods support a healthy diet. There are nine essential nutrients found in dairy foods. These nutrients build strong healthy bones, play a role in disease prevention and promote academic and athletic performances. Besides being lled with nutrients, they are great tasting. Dairy foods can be enjoyed individually or mixed into a recipe.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. Dairy foods support healthy bodies. Not only do they benet a person physically but also mentally. I would then share with them how to incorporate dairy in their diets. For example, they could eat a bowl of yogurt and granola in the morning for breakfast, pack a cheese stick for lunch and enjoy a cold glass of milk at supper.

Parents: Darrel and Lisa Maus Town: Freeport Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am the fourth generation to work on my family’s dairy. Our family works together to help make sure the animals are always cared for; I usually am milking cows. In the future, I want to come back to the farm and add a dairy plant on site. I would then allow people to tour the facility to see how the animals are cared for and how their food is made.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right Ashley Maus, 19 now? Dairy products are wholesome, nutritious and Dairy Star Sponsor: good tasting. In the food market today there are many Arnzen Construction alternatives and non-dairy products advertised as the Freeport, MN healthier choice but this is not true. Consumers need to 320-836-2284 know how pure and fresh dairy products are. I would deliver this message by going up to consumers who have a non-dairy product in hand and switch it out with dairy. This conversation hopefully will give the consumers a wake-up call and realize dairy is whole- Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I some, nutritious and good tasting. get to share my passion with others. I have experienced life on the farm and have helped make both cheese and If you had the opportunity to give a classroom pre- ice cream. It is fun to share my experiences with othsentation to third graders, describe what kind of ers that are unaware of these processes. I believe it is information you would share and how you would important that we have dairy ambassadors to promote present it. How milk travels from the farm to the gro- dairy, because the dairy community is a fun place to be. cery store in about 48 hours. To present the information, I would use a 10-gallon milk can and put slips What do you think is one of the most important of paper with each step inside. Then, I would ask fun dairy messages to share with consumers right now? fact questions about the process to give them some Everyone should know that dairy farmers love caring hints. Whoever gets them right, or attempts to, will for their animals. The animals are cared for everyday get to draw out of the milk can. Once all the slips of the year, including holidays. One of my favorite are drawn, they must work together and gure out the memories from growing up was racing my dad out to whole process. the barn in the early morning hours. We have had a lot of fun over the years caring for the animals and making memories in the process.

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Stearns County continued

Steele County continued

Steele County continued

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share information about what cows eat. I would start by asking who has made cookies.

Then, I would bring out samples of different feedstuffs, so they can see what they look like. Since my family has a TMR on our farm, I would also bring in a bucket to mix the feedstuff. I would then share how the TMR mixes the feedstuff like a mixer mixes cookie dough and that cows love it.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

Every dairy product is cared for and clean. I know some people in this world think that we don’t take care of our products like we should, but we do. We wash and clean every product to the right temperature and lter as needed, so our consumers can eat or drink our products.

cess is something I have been looking forward to since I was in grade school. I love talking with those who aren’t connected to a dairy farm about what I, and many other dairy farmers, do daily to care for our cows. By being a dairy princess, I have the opportunity share my passion for the dairy industry with others.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would bring a presentation on how the dairy industry works and where they get their food from. I would also bring different kinds of milk, cheese and butters to show them the difference in color. I would also bring some plastic cups and spoons, so the kids could make their own butter.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy products are safe and nutritious; with nine essential nutrients in it, milk is an excellent choice of beverage to refuel with. Dairy products are versatile, which makes them super easy to incorporate into all meals. This is an important message because there are countless advertisements against dairy products that are untrue, and there are so many non-dairy alternatives to dairy products that are increasing in popularity; however, these dairy substitutes cannot provide the consumer with the same nutritional value a dairy product will.

Parents: Steve and Cheryl Wiechman Town: St. Rosa Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on my parents’ dairy with my seven older siblings. I have always enjoyed helping on the farm, and I miss it now that I am away at college.

Samantha I am attending the University of Mary in Bismarck, Wiechman, 20 N.D. pursuing a double Dairy Star Sponsor: major in elementary and St. Rosa Lumber, Inc. special education. I am Freeport, MN hoping to become a spe320-836-2284 cial education teacher, and hopefully have cows in my life, as well.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It gives me a unique opportunity to share my story with people. As a dairy princess, I can tell people how much I have loved growing up on a dairy farm as well as sharing with people the great benets of adding dairy to their diets.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

Farmers are responsible caretakers of both our cows and our land. With social media and the disconnection between farmers and families, I think it is important to share this with people. It can sometimes be hard to know what is true.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share with them where milk and other dairy foods come from. I would share with them just what goes into a gallon of milk and a pound of butter. I would tell them about growing up on a farm and what it is actually like.

Steele County Parents: Derek and Michelle Layland Town: Waseca Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I’d describe myself as a hard worker, patient but sometimes stubborn. I like to hunt and sh. Animals and agriculture have made a big impact on my life; it changed me in the Danielle Layland, 17 best way possible. I fell in Dairy Star Sponsor: love with agriculture at a Kasper Family Dairy young age and will never Owatonna, MN stop loving it. I work at Kasper Dairy. My duties on the farm include taking care of 200 calves. My future includes going to South Central Community College for my degree in agri-business then transfer to University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? The most important aspect of being a princess is being the role model all the kids can look up to. I’m the new face of dairy farming. I couldn’t be happier to be the person that changes the young lives today. The dairy industry is changing, so this means the way we farm will soon be changing. I think it will be a change in our lives.

Parents: Merton and Trudy Nelson Town: Ellendale Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work and live on my family’s 50-cow herd.

I am a freshman at the University of WisconsinRiver Falls studying dairy science. Every weekend I travel home to help my Lacey Nelson, 19 family and take care of our Dairy Star Sponsor: animals. My ultimate goal Bongards’ Creameries is to return to the industry Norwood-Young in some way when I graduAmerica, MN ate.

952-277-5500 Why is being a dairy princess important to you? When I was younger, I never dreamed of being a dairy princess. Even the idea of having to wear a dress in public was outside of my comfort zone. Being a dairy princess gives me a chance to share my experiences and my love for the dairy industry with members of the public. It provides me with the amazing opportunity to not only educate others, but to represent the hard-working dairy farmers of Minnesota.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

All dairy products are safe. Younger generations are getting more and more disconnected from agriculture, so it is important to make sure they know where their food comes from and that it is healthy and nutritious.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would start out talking about myself and my farm, using pictures of cows and calves to get their attention and showcase the pride that dairy farmers have for their animals. After that, I would use an interactive, kid friendly presentation to show how milk and milk products get from farm to plate. While I am talking, I would have them shaking a jar of whipping cream into butter and serve it on crackers after to tie everything together.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? Being a dairy prin-

Stevens County Parents: Ron and Julie Golombiecki Town: Morris Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on my family’s dairy and now that I have nished my dairy management degree I am working full-time there. Also, I am working a few hours at a local bank each week. I work closely with Stevens County 4-H; we are building a new dairy barn and expanding our dairy program at the fair. I also have the pleasure of serving as the National Professional Agriculture Students president this year.

Elizabeth Golombiecki, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: D&D Ag Supply & Construction, Pennock, MN 320-599-4466

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I realize more and more that too many people have no connection with where their food comes from. I want to be a friendly face people can put with dairy farming while being someone to turn to when they have questions and know they are getting answers from a real dairy farmer.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Milk is pure and simple. When you can nd many milk alternatives, such as almond and soy, it is even more important to know what you are really buying. Milk at the store simply contains three ingredients; milk and added vitamins A & D; while other milks may list 10 or more ingredients.

Parents: Wade and Mary Schroeder Town: Owatonna Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am the fth generation to work on my family’s dairy. We milk 40 cows, mostly Holsteins with some crossbreds. I plan on going to school for nursing in the fall but staying close to my family farm.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would talk about the duties of a dairy farmer, and what my family and other farm families do every day. I would have a PowerPoint with pictures and short video clips for the kids to watch. I would also bring in some equipment to show them, such as a baby calf bottle or feed samples. I would have a short quiz at the end as well as a dairy treat for everyone to enjoy such as a cheese stick and a glass of milk.

Chloe Schroeder, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Northland Farm Systems Owatonna, MN 800-385-3911

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would bring in samples of what a cow eats on my farm, so students can see and smell everything. We can talk about how dairy farmers follow a recipe to mix cows’ food every day. Then compare cows’ food and recipe with what people may eat in a smoothie. This will lead into making a smoothie mix for students to sample that is lled with dairy goodness.

Swift County Parents: Lori and Michael Anderson Town: Kerkhoven Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a crop farm and work on a family-owned dairy, which has approximately 180 milk cows. I am graduating from Ridgewater College in Willmar with a degree in farm operations and management, and next fall I will be attending Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall for agriculture education.

Ashley Anderson, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: D&D Ag Supply & Construction Pennock, MN 320-599-4466

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Over time, the amount of people active in production agriculture has dwindled while the overall population keeps going up. This is making advocacy more important. Being a dairy princess is important to me because it serves as a great resource for people to nd out the truth about dairy farming.

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018 • Page 17

Todd County continued

Todd County continued

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. When I do school visits I like to make cow food with the kids. I take a big bowl and basically mix in some feed stuffs that I brought from home, and while we are making it, I explain to the kids that it is like we are making food for them to eat. Another thing I love to do is bring stuff from the farm: a cow aspirin and a human aspirin, a calf bottle and human bottle, a baby jacket and calf jacket and the list goes on.

to share with the community, and by serving as a dairy princess, I am able to be the connecting point between the farmer and the consumer.

Parents: Mike and Cheryl Pachan Town: Long Prairie

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would give a presentation on the milking process and bottling, which is all done within 48 hours. While that seems like a moderate amount of time, 48 hours is very fast. By explaining this to the students, they begin to not only understand the milking process, but they understand how they get the milk that they drink at school and at home.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I did not grow up on a dairy farm, but I have had an opportunity to work at the Zigan family farm for the last four years. I am involved in the Prairie Dusters Riding Club, and I am also a Todd County Mounted Posses member.

My future plans are to live life to the fullest and continue working in the dairy industry.

Megan Pachan, 23 Dairy Star Sponsor: Swanville Co-op Swanville MN 320-547-2445

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Farmers care for their cows to provide consumers with nutritious, safe and delicious products. Dairy farmers work every single day to give their cows the utmost care to assure their health and the quality of Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

To help people better understand how dairy farming the milk they produce. works and to answer any questions they may have.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of What do you think is one of the most important information you would share and how you would dairy messages to share with consumers right present it. I would tell them about where their favor- now? Animal care and health. We, as farmers, treat ite dairy products come from and how they are pro- our cows like a member of the family, rather than just duced by using examples and photos from life on a a piece of property. Cows are looked after and cared for constantly. Farmers do everything they can to help dairy. cows produce the nine essential nutrients in milk to be consumed by the world today.

Todd County

Parents: Shawn and Debbie Hollermann Town: Burtrum Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up, and now manage, my family’s dairy farm with my dad. I am a board member on the Morrison County Fair Board and vice president on the Ridgewater Professional Megan Hollermann, Agriculture Student Orga19 nization Club. I’m also a Dairy Star Sponsor: member of the Minnesota Pro Dairy Junior Holstein AssociaWadena, MN tion, the Minnesota Farm 218-632-5416 Bureau and a screened 4-H volunteer. My future plans are to continue to gain ownership on my family’s farm and stay as involved with my extra stuff as I can.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

This industry has personally shaped me in an indescribable way. I am the person I am today because of the people within this industry, and I owe them all a huge thank you. I don’t do this only for myself and my family, I do it for the dairymen in the country who need help changing the image we have been given because this isn’t a one-man job, it takes everyone.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

Your story. Every person you meet wants something personal to take away from your conversation. No one wants to sit there and listen to you ramble off a bunch of statistics. When you make it personal, that is what people remember. They don’t remember that fact you told them when you started your conversation.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would show pictures and talk about how milk gets from the cow to the store. It all starts with the cow getting milked. After the cow has been milked it goes into a bulk tank. It then waits for a milk truck to bring it to a creamery to be processed. After it is processed, a portion of it goes into a jug or carton and the other portion goes into other foods such as yogurts, cheeses and many other foods.

Parents: Alan and Vicki Paskewitz Town: Browerville Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Staples-Motley Hogh School, and I will continue my education at South Dakota State University next fall. I plan to major in human development and Rachel Paskewitz, 18 family studies to pursue a Dairy Star Sponsor: career in social work, and Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op minor in religious studies.

Browerville, MN Although my dairy indus320-594-2711 try journey started off with me feeding calves at Solid Rock Dairy, I am now seeing the process come full circle by milking 200 head at Rinde Farms LLC.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? We hear a lot about the way that we raise our cattle. Taking great care of our animals is our number one priority. By being gentle and caring for our cattle, they continue to be happy. We don’t take shortcuts because we want to provide the absolute best for our cattle so they can produce their absolute best for the families within our communities.

Parents: Alan and Vicki Paskewitz Town: Staples Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have worked with two of my uncles on their dairy farms. One discontinued the dairy in 2017, but I continue to stay involved with the other, in addition to working as an Rebekka Paskewitz, employee with Riverview 20 LLP. I study agricultural Dairy Star Sponsor: education at South Dakota Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op State University and am Browerville, MN involved in Sigma Alpha, 320-594-2711 Little International and Collegiate Farm Bureau. I hope to teach agricultural education in Minnesota and expand advocacy efforts that promote a strong bond between consumers and agriculturalists.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Every person has a story to share, and a reason to care.

As a dairy princess, we are asked to serve as ambassadors of the stories farmers cultivate during their busy days. It’s an opportunity to portray a community we love, families who sacrice so much, and teams who ght all odds to honor the rising demands of our world. Our role as ambassadors connects consumers to the ideals, responsibilities and commitment farmers live out. This insight is what our generation seeks, why not meet them at the starting line?

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Consumers are searching for clarity, and we can’t blame them. With a buffet line full of options in the dairy aisle, it’s hard to know what is best for our family’s and individual health. In the midst of this confusion, our message remains constant to what it always has. Our milk is real and has nine essential nutrients that benet everyone from babies to NFL athletes. Tested and proven, dairy is backed by comfortable cows with nutritious diets and high health standards. This is a message we can back with condence and one that doesn’t require a crown to share.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. There’s nothing better than learning by doing. I would like to involve students in a feed simulation with different breakfast cereals and follow-up with a discovery lesson of milk’s nine essential nutrients. Seeing quality milk come from a specialized Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I diet shows students the magic behind dairy cows and have always loved connecting with people, and get- gives students a better idea of how farmers provide ting to know them by creating special relationships. nutritive care for their cattle.

Being a dairy princess is important to me because creating those relationships is brought to a whole new level. There are many things that farmers would like

Page 18 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 201

Wabasha County

Parents: Annette Travis Reimers Town: Plainview

and

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where I am studying agriculture business and dairy science. I spend most of my time working on a dairy Blaize Dankers, 19 farm located in Wabasha Dairy Star Sponsor: County where I work with Dairyland Equipment calf management proceServices dures including feeding, Plainview, MN bedding, vaccinating and 507-534-3161 monitoring 100 Holstein calves. I occasionally do weekend work milking for another family that I also enjoy and appreciate. I love showing cattle, being involved in UWRF Dairy Club, shing and 4-H. Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

I love the idea of giving back to the community and industry that has given me so much. I developed my passion for dairy though outside youth organizations and my work on the farm. I strive to be the best representative I can be for dairy farmers and a role model for the next generation of dairy enthusiasts.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The idea that there are many different products that meet the needs of buyers. Although consumers’ tastes and desires are changing, the industry is striving to provide consumers with a wide variety of options including lactose-free, fat-free, organic and avored foods. I think this is a key concept to express and share with the public because it offers a nutrientrich option for everyone.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would start by sharing some fun facts about dairy cattle with a ll-in-the-blank handout with important information such as nutrition needs, the process of milking, pasteurization and the four compartments of the stomach. Hands-on involvement is a great way to offer kids a memorable and fun experience. I would hope to bring in a calf to show and chocolate milk as a treat to keep kids excited about the industry.

Waseca County Parents: Jon and Cassie Eldeen Town: Waseca Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have been a part of Waseca FFA for ve years. I am a part of Eldeen Farms where we milk 65 Holstein cows.

The farm has been in operation since 1876 and has grown signicantly.

We grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa and oats. I will be attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for agricultural education and communications.

Megan Eldeen, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Rusty Paulson of IBA Dairy Supplies Owatonna, MN 507-451-7218

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

Being the Waseca County Dairy Princess is extremely important to me. The number of dairy producers in the county have dropped drastically over the past 30 years. Having the opportunity to share with the community and individuals is crucial.

Waseca County continued What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? As producers, we are having a hard time bouncing back from economic downfalls. It is important to remember that farmers have to work for everything that we have and that making ends meat at this current time is difcult. This is a crucial message to remember because we are working to provide food for not only our state, but the country.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would bring in a calf and show them the bottle and milk that it drinks. I would show them different breeds of dairy cows, explain how milk is produced and where the milk comes from. I would tell them how many gallons of milk a cow gives per day and how many glasses of milk they give per day and see if they can remember those numbers at the end of the presentation.

Washington County Parents: Kirsten Zaudtke Town: Forest Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am involved in the Forest Lake FFA Chapter, Pine County 4H and a bunch of other things. I love showing cattle. It all started with a FFA/SAE project going to a relatives’ farm Swede Alley Jerseys. From there, I got asked to become a dairy princess. Now I currently work on the Miron family farm milking cows. I plan on going to Century Community College to get a degree for dental hygiene.

Amanda Zaudtke, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Werner Implement Vermillion, MN 651-437-4435 Fluegge’s Ag Mora, MN 320-679-2981

Winona County Parents: Ross and Vicky Greden Town: Altura Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have been helping on the farm since I was 8, and since then the list of things I am able to do has grown signicantly. Our family milks 650 cows, so I help out wherever and whenever I am needed. I also help every spring and summer with eldwork.

This lifestyle has inspired me to pursue a degree in agriculture, and I will be attending South Dakota State University in the fall.

Josephine Greden, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: S&S Dairy Systems St. Charles, MN 507-932-4288

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? A lot of people, even in our community, are ill-informed of the process to get food from the farm to the table.

I think people are unaware of the nutritional benets dairy products hold, and I think it is crucial that the message is spread. I believe that informing the population will also help the economy of the dairy community.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? There is no substitute for milk. No other drink provides the nutrients that milk does, and those that come close are twice as expensive. Plant-based products do not have the nutritional value that dairy products have, and parents need to be made aware of this.

It is also crucial that kids are given this message at a young age so that healthy habits might be encouraged.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would love to do a presentation on cows.

I would share information such as what/how they eat, where they sleep, how they contribute to the farm, and what products come from cows. I would incorporate Why is being a dairy the idea that dairy products hold a nutritional advanprincess important to you? Being a dairy princess tage over alternative products. I would ask the kids is important because there are so many misconcep- lots of questions, present using photos and bring dairy tions in today’s world about the dairy industry. I get products to share with the class as a snack. to provide them real information about what the dairy industry is all about. I also love seeing all the smiles that I get from all the little kids and adults when I ask them questions or they ask me!

Parents: Curtiss and Tara What do you think is one of the most important Mundt dairy messages to share with consumers right Town: Utica now? Why? I think all of the are important but right now I would say food safety, There is so much go- Tell us about yourself, ing on right now with people thinking that there are the farm you live and/ “antibiotics in milk” which isn’t the case. There are or work on, or your parso many tests done on the milk before it can even go ents work on, and your future plans. I am a sefrom our farm to the table. nior at Lewiston-Altura If you had the opportunity to give a classroom pre- High School. I participate sentation to third graders, describe what kind of in volleyball, basketball information you would share and how you would and track. Along with bepresent it. I would share with third graders the im- ing a three-season athlete, portance of dairy and how good it is for their growing I work at Mills Fleet Farm Madison Mundt, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: bones. I would also provide information with where and help on the family their milk comes from. I would do a presentation with dairy. My parents own and Benson Farm Service operate a small dairy with Lewiston, MN an interactive activity and milk tastings. our cousins Andy and Julie 507-523-2188 Mundt. We milk 180 cows in a tiestall stanchion barn as well as raising all our own replacements.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? I am proud of the dairy industry, and I want to inform people on getting their dairy three-a-day. Even if you are lactose intolerant, there are still ways to get dairy into your diet. It’s important to me to inform young children to get their three-a-day because it promotes strong bones and muscles and prevents osteoporosis when you get older.

Winona County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018 • Page 19

Winona County continued

Wright County continued

Wright County continued

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Drink milk and eat cheese, yogurt and ice cream. Dairy farmers all around the United States work hard and make sacrices so we can have quality products that help strengthen bones and muscles and help prevent osteoporosis. They also take good care of their animals and land so that future farmers can farm.

school library. I plan on going back to school where I will major in elementary education.

Parents: John and Suzy Volden Town: Buffalo

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would share how milk goes from the farm to their fridge. I would also explain the importance of getting their three servings of dairy daily and the different options they have such as milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream, and I would have samples for them to try. I would also take them on a farm visit to show them the process. Kids learn better with handson learning.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy is the clean and clear choice. All dairy foods provide us with nine essential nutrients. Also, farmers take great pride in providing us with milk of the highest quality in the dairy case. Real dairy come with a cleaner label, as it has fewer ingredients and takes less time to get from the farm to your table than milk alternatives.

Wright County Parents: Wayne and Lorrie Kozitka Town: Howard Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on my uncle’s farm where we milk 40 Holsteins and crossbreeds. I help with milking cows and feeding calves. I house six of my own dairy animals Bethany Kozitka, 22 there, too. This year, I am Dairy Star Sponsor: also working as a dance Munson Lakes Nutrition teacher through my loHoward Lake, MN cal community education 320-543-2561 program. I volunteer with the 4-H dairy program and

Why is being a dairy princess important to you? It is a way to help the public capture the true image of the dairy community. Through this role, I am able to be the lens to the dairy community by sharing what I have learned from growing up on the farm and the importance of having dairy in our diet.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. From farm to glass. I could do a PowerPoint presentation with actual items we use on the farm, but I could easily use a poster and the items, too. I would share the importance of dairy in our diet and living a healthy and active lifestyle. I would have them put the milk’s journey in order to see how much they know about how milk gets from the farm to their tables. I would play trivia with them and open it up for the students to ask questions.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THIS SPECIAL EDITION, please contact Nancy at the Dairy Star office, 320-352-6303 Or visit www.dairystar.com to see a digital version of this special edition.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Buffalo High School.

I enjoy hanging out with my friends and playing sports. I work at Green Waves Dairy Farm. I plan on attending South Dakota Grace Volden, 18 State University. I want to Dairy Star Sponsor: major in something medi- Munson Lakes Nutrition cal, but with my job on a Howard Lake, MN dairy farm, it has made me 320-543-2561 think recently of switching from helping people to helping animals.

Why is being a dairy princess important to you?

It will give me more opportunities to learn about all components of farming. I grew up in a city and continue to live in one, so I didn’t know very much about farming before I worked at Green Waves Dairy Farm.

Now, I learn something new almost every day. This is also an opportunity to meet new people because of all of the events that we attend.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The cows are treated well. Many people believe farmers are abusive towards their animals, and I have never experienced this. All of the farmers I have met seem to enjoy their job and the company the cows bring.

If you had the opportunity to give a classroom presentation to third graders, describe what kind of information you would share and how you would present it. I would describe how the milk and dairy products get from the cows to their families. I would have a lot of pictures and maybe some hands-on activities, like making ice cream in a bag.

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Page 20 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 12, 2018

ConƟnued from ANNEXSTAD | Page 1 “Make the most of who you are,” she said. “You might not think your experience is unique. I didn’t always think I had a unique story to share. … Embrace who you are and don’t be afraid to share that with others whether that be consumers or others in the dairy community.”

Before Annexstad passes on the crown, she will be attending an urban agriculture day in May and will be traveling to various breakfasts on the farm and county fairs in June. She will also be at the Riverview, LLP open house and multiple dairy days throughout Minnesota as well as making nursing home visits and parade appearances.

While she will be leaving her role as Princess Kay, Annexstad will not be placing her dairy advocacy role on the back burner.

“I hope to work in the dairy community,” she said. “I want to communicate about the dairy community to consumers or communicate with farmers about different products that might help them be successful.”

Annexstad thanks the dairy farmers of Minnesota and those in the dairy community for her opportunity.

“Dairy farmers’ jobs are much harder than mine,” she said. “I really am grateful to have had this experience and hope what I did as Princess Kay always has a positive impact on the dairy community.”

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Emily Annexstad, right, passes out chocolate milk aŌer a milk run at the 2017 Minnesota State Fair with Princess Kay nalists Samantha Traxler (from leŌ), Anna Broll and Rebecca Schubert.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Emily Annexstad, center, and Princess Kay nalists Maddie Lindahl, leŌ, and Ashley Warren partake in the buƩer sculpƟng contest at the Minnesota State Fair last year.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Princess Kay Emily Annexstad meets with Ruth Klossner at the New Ulm Hub Club Farm City Show.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Emily Annexstad worked at Fuel Up to Play 60 events during the Super Bowl Experience in Minneapolis.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Emily Annexstad stands with Minnesota State Fair mascots Fairchild and Fairborn at the St. Paul Winter Carnival parade.