2016 mn dp tab

DAIRY ST R

Special Edition

May 9, 2016

Mauk has a heart for the industry Princess Kay shares the story of Minnesota’s dairy farmers

By Krista Kuzma

krista.k@dairystar.com

In all aspects of her life, Kyla Mauk tries to live out the saying, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

This philosophy has been especially insightful during her reign as the 62nd Princess Kay of the Milky Way. “As Princess Kay I try my hardest to truly listen and care about people’s opinions, and then share my message after I nd out where people are coming from so they can realize that I do care about what they’re thinking and why they think that way,” Mauk said.

With the Dairy Princess Promotion and Leadership Event approaching, the 19-year-old has been able to reect back on all that has happened in the past year, including representing dairy farmers in Wright County as a dairy princess, along with earning the title as Princess Kay of the Milky Way in August to kickoff the Minnesota State Fair.

“It’s been one of the best years of my life,” said Mauk, the daughter of dairy farmers, Chris and Harland Mauk from Howard Lake, Minn. “I’ve loved every event that I’ve gotten to do as Princess Kay, especially because I’ve gotten to represent Minnesota’s dairy farmers and advocate for all areas of the dairy community. There’s not just one word to describe the year because it’s been so much fun and I’ve learned so much from people.”

In addition to the full 12 days of promoting at the state fair, Mauk’s schedule as Princess Kay has been busy – from classroom visits and school presentations to dairy industry banquets and dairy organization annual meetings. But her favorite have been the Fuel Up to Play 60 events.

“Fuel Up to Play 60 is the health and wellness program that dairy farmers partnered with the National Football

League to promote healthy living in students across the state,” Mauk said. “It has been awesome. I love doing those events. I’m so passionate about healthy living.”

Most recently, Mauk represented dairy farmers at the program’s Rewards Summit, where students visited the Vikings’ training eld, met with current team members and learned about healthy living.

“I got to teach them about farming, we ate a healthy lunch and we made sure they were eating three dairy foods a day. The kids also did some drills with the Vikings players, which was really cool,” Mauk said. “It was so great to see young students so passionate about living a healthy and active lifestyle. It’s truly inspiring to me.”

It also resonates with her inner athlete. Mauk ran cross country and track in high school.

“I still go for a run or go to the gym almost every day.

My roommate and I just signed up for a half marathon. We’re really excited to train for that.

I’m a little nervous but I think we can do it,” she said.

This health-conscience lifestyle goes well with one of Mauk’s favorite dairy messages to share as Princess Kay – the health benets of eating dairy foods.

“It’s something I really love talking about, especially when it comes to sharing the goodness of drinking chocolate milk after a workout. Being an athlete – I enjoy going for runs – it’s something I hold near and dear to my heart, and I want to make sure everyone can get those three servings of dairy foods every day because they’re so delicious and nutritious,” she said.

Mauk wants to share this message and other dairy information as much as she can, especially after a surprising moment while visiting a classroom in Rochester.

“Students did not know

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Kyla Mauk, 62nd Princess Kay of the Milky Way, visits with students during a Fuel Up to Play 60 event at the Vikings’ training eld. anything about dairy farming because our population is getting so far removed from production agriculture. That just ensures that Princess Kay and the dairy princess program across the state will always have a job that people are learning how safe their dairy foods are and how great Minnesota’s dairy farmers are,” Mauk said.

Sometimes encountering people who are far removed from farming can be a challenge, she said.

“Students hear misconceptions from the Internet and other people who don’t understand agriculture,” Mauk said.

“I’m glad I’ve been able to clear up some of those misconceptions.”

These encounters have further solidied her career path.

The South Dakota State University sophomore is studying agriculture education and agricultural law with hopes of working in ag policy before becoming a high school agriculture teacher.

“I’ve learned that I absolutely love advocating for dairy. I knew that before, but being Princess Kay and having to go to different events made me realize I want to do that for the rest of my life in anyway possible. That’s why I chose ag

policy and ag education – so I can continue to teach people about where their food is coming from because so many people don’t understand,” Mauk said.

One year ago, she was preparing for the 12 months that would change her life. She remembers how she was feeling walking into the judging room during the Dairy Princess Promotion and Leadership Event in 2015.

“I was nervous, but that was a good thing. It was a good nervous because it was something I loved and have wanted since I was a little girl. It’s been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember,” Mauk said.

Growing up her family’s fourth-generation 88-cow dairy in Howard Lake, Mauk would watch as other young women wore the crown as Princess Kay and shared their dairy message.

Now that she’s been able to have that experience, Mauk gives advice to the young women vying for the 12 coveted nalist spots.

“Be yourself because when you’re connecting with people, you want to be yourself and they want to see a face behind dairy farms so they can trust farmers in Minnesota and trust where their food is com-

ing from,” she said.

She also suggests dairy princesses talk to dairy producers in their county to see how they would handle hard questions.

“They know so much, especially because a lot of them have been in the business for quite a few years,” Mauk said.

After the Dairy Princess Promotion and Leadership Event, the rest of Mauk’s summer is packed with other events, especially breakfasts on the farm, lunches and dinners on the dairy.

“The one I’m specically excited about is the one in Wright County because that’s my home county,” she said. “It gives me a chance to thank all of the dairy farmers and community members who have been there for me over the last year. Being the rst Princess Kay from Wright County, they have been such great support in helping me in any way I needed it.”

Regardless of the type of event or where it is located, Mauk said she will put her whole heart into it, showing people she cares about her role as Princess Kay. “I can’t wait for the last 3.5 months to continue so I can do as much as I can,” Mauk said.

Introducing Your County Dairy Princesses For 2016...

Page 2 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

Brown County

Parents: Tom and Mary Portner Town: Sleepy Eye

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. Port-Haven Dairy, where I grew up with my four sisters, is home to 270 registered Brown Swiss cows. Life on this farm fostered my great love and immense passion for the dairy in- Sabrina Portner, 19 dustry. I am currently maDairy Star Sponsor: joring in dairy science at Champion Milking Iowa State University and Systems hope to continue my eduAlbany, MN cation through a masters 800-866-3098 or doctorate degree in ruminant nutrition. Working with livestock in developing countries is something I aspire to do.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess the strength of being a lifetime learner by continually seeking new knowledge that enables me to keep up to date with current events in the dairy industry, as well as in the consumer’s world. Being open about who I am empowers me to connect with fellow dairy farmers and curious consumers. I have a talent for simplifying complex concepts into simple ideas to decrease misunderstandings between farmers and consumers.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy industry advocate, I nd myself mentioning the nutritional benets of including dairy in one’s diet when conversing with my peers. I do this by encouraging my workout friends to have a glass of chocolate milk or mentioning that Greek yogurt is a very versatile baking tool to fellow baking enthusiasts. It is my job to educate consumers about the importance of including the nine essential nutrients found in dairy in their diets.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? A breakfast on the farm provides an opportunity for complete transparency with our animal care practices. It is the perfect setting to show consumers the hard work that goes into ensuring that the comfort, health and well-being of each animal is maintained. Highlighting the farmer’s care for the Earth would also t the situation. I would focus on how this intense care translates into the wholesome and nutrition dairy products consumers enjoy.

Parents: John and Patty Rosenhammer Town: Sleepy Eye Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on our fourth-generation family dairy farm, which is currently owned by my dad and my uncle, Greg. Our farm consists of 200 milking cows and the replacements that we raise. We currently are running 580 acres of farmland. Next fall, I plan to attend South Dakota State University to earn my bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Becca Rosenhammer, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: AMPI New Ulm Division 507-354-8295 www.ampi.com

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Being a dairy princess provides me with

Brown County continued

even more opportunities to reach out to the public about the health benets that dairy products have to offer. For example, at local community events such as the home show, where I distribute cheese samples, I am able to talk rsthand to consumers and answer their questions about the industry.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Breakfast on the farm would allow me to educate the public of how well cows are taken care of and assure the consumers that dairy products are safe. Being on the farm would allow them to experience this rsthand. For instance, every spring we allow the local pre-schoolers to visit our farm. This is an effort to teach the next generation about where their food comes from.

Parents: Steve and Barb Seifert Town: Sleepy Eye Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am nishing up my rst year at Winona State University where I am double-majoring in business administration and human resources, and minoring in music. In my free time, I enjoy singing, Bethany Seifert, 18 playing guitar and piano, Dairy Star Sponsor: and watching Minnesota First District sports teams. I live on a Association dairy farm where we milk Litcheld, MN 300 Holstein cows three 320-693-3236 times a day. Following graduation from college, I hope to work in human resources for either an agricultural company or a print music company.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe that when you are passionate about something, you will go above and beyond for it. I have a passion for the dairy industry and representing the hard-working dairy farmers that help produce wholesome, nutritious dairy products.

Furthermore, I feel like I am a very approachable person that is always willing to talk to other people and answer questions, especially regarding the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Since I go to a college where agricultural education is not integrated into the schooling system, I have taken the initiative to promote dairy products by writing random dairy facts on my dorm door, wearing a “got milk?” t-shirt around campus, and sharing nutritional information of dairy products with my friends.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? If I was helping at a breakfast on the farm, I would focus on the message that dairy cattle are healthy and well cared for. Since the public has the opportunity to be on the farm, they get to see rsthand how well the dairy cattle are being treated. Therefore, with my focus on the well-being of our dairy cattle, in addition to being able to witness the cattle directly, the consumers that were at the event would leave the farm with no questions on the healthy lives of the dairy cows at our dairy farms.

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Wright County’s program started attending several libraries in the county to read dairy stories and serve ice cream to the adults and children in attendance. The largest group is in Delano with 300 to 400 people attending.

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What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? In addition to growing up on a dairy farm, I am an active member of 4-H and FFA. This has helped me develop leadership skills, which allows me to better interact with consumers and educate the public about the importance of agriculture.

Brown County continued

Parents: Amos and Marianne Vogel Town: Morgan Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I’m a senior in high school. I’ve participated in basketball and volleyball. I have also been the choir president, New Ulm FFA President and Region VII FFA Sentinel. I enjoy hunting, reading, sports Mariah Vogel, 17 and have played piano for Dairy Star Sponsor: 14 years. I live on a farm First Security Bank outside of Morgan, and Sleepy Eye, MN I work at Olmar Dairy 507-794-3911 Farms. I own ve calves. I plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-Steven’s Point to major in resource management law enforcement.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very passionate and driven in whatever activity I participate in. I enjoy encouraging others to become a part of these kinds of programs. I am outgoing, self-condent and have a desire to serve the community, as well as others outside of my community. I relate well to people and enjoy starting new conversations with strangers.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I encourage the consumption of dairy. It is important to share the message that dairy products are an important part of an individual’s daily diet. I will show people facts and share my experience with dairy so that they might become interested as well.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? In this situation, it would be important to focus on the fact that the food they are consuming is completely safe to eat. Besides this fact, it would be important to show how the breakfast gets ‘from the eld to you.’

Carver County

Parents: Steve and Jen Buetow Town: Cologne

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I was born on my family’s dairy farm and have worked on the farm for as long as I can remember, I couldn’t imagine growing up any other way. I feel privileged to be able to have the farm Carley Buetow, 18 experience while growing Dairy Star Sponsor: up. I will be attending the Bongards’ Creameries University of WisconsinCologne, MN River Falls this fall to pur952-466-3554 sue a major in animal science with an emphasis in equine or dairy.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I can relate to the people I am promoting (dairy farmers) because I work right alongside them while they work.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Many children look up to a princess gure and may be more willing to listen to them. It is also my job to promote the healthy benets of dairy products.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would share that all of those tasty, healthy dairy products that help make a perfect breakfast are produced from the tender care of a farmer and his happy cows.

Carver County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016 • Page 3

Carver County continued

Carver County continued

Parents: Joel and Barb Grimm Town: Waconia

Parents: Ross and Jody Schochenmaier Town: Waconia

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I live on a third-generation family farm, where we milk around 40 Holsteins. I enjoy reading, playing piano and spending time outside.

I currently attend Minnesota State University, Moorhead, with a major in English and mass communications. I am unsure of what the future holds for me, but I’m excited to see where life takes me.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I love to play sports and participate in clubs at school. I have been working on the Kugath farm for over eight months with my brother and our neighbor. Next year, I plan on attending either Madison University of Wisconsin- Schochenmaier, 17 Platteville or University Dairy Star Sponsor: of Wisconsin-River Falls Bongards’ Creameries for agricultural engineerCologne, MN ing.

952-466-3554

Laura Grimm, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: B&R Dairy Equipment Inc. Winthrop, MN 507-647-7000

Chisago County

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Chisago Lakes High School. I am involved in choir, 4-H, FFA, and lacrosse. Next year, I plan on attending the University of Wisconsin -River Falls to major in equine Laura Holt, 17 management and minor Dairy Star Sponsor: in agricultural business. I Federated Co-op am currently working on Osceola, WI What qualities do you possess that make you a DNA Farms located in 800-294-7661 good dairy princess? I am very outgoing and not Lindstrom. On the farm, afraid to talk to new people. I also stand strong for I care for the calves, milk anything I believe in, and I believe that spreading the the cows, and help to maintain a clean and healthy working farm. word about the dairy industry.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I care about dairy and I am enthusiastic about spreading its importance. I like to think that I am personable and approachable, so no one should be scared to ask me questions about dairy’s journey from the farm to the store, its nine es- As a dairy princess, what role do you play in ensential vitamins and minerals, or how farmers take couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy care of their precious cows. lifestyle? I believe you can encourage consumers to eat dairy by showing them just how much dairy is alAs a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- ready in their daily life. couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is to bring awareness to the im- If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what portance of dairy as part of a healthy diet. I highlight dairy message would you focus on while visiting the numerous benets that dairy possesses and offer with the public? I’d explain to them that the dairy suggestions for incorporating this important food industry is much more than just the farms. group into everyone’s diet. I also encourage a healthy lifestyle through “Fuel Up to Play 60,” which is a collaboration between the National Dairy Council and Parents: Paul and Sue the National Football League.

Stuewe Town: Cologne If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting Tell us about yourself, with the public? Since we would be on a farm, I the farm you live and/or would focus on how important dairy farms are to the work on, and your future community, as well as to the entire country. I would plans. I have been a three also focus on how proud farmers are of the whole- sport athlete, a member some, nutritious dairy product they produce and how and ofcer of my school’s proud they are of their cows and land.

FFA chapter, and I am in the concert and jazz band.

I live and work on my Parents: Mark and Juile family’s dairy farm where Hesse we milk around 90 cows. Clare Stuewe, 17 Town: Cologne I plan on attending South Dairy Star Sponsor: Dakota State University in Prairie Farm Supply Tell us about yourself, the fall to pursue a degree Belle Plaine, MN the farm you live and/ in nursing.

952-873-4234 or work on, and your future plans. I currently What qualities do you live on a sixth-generation possess that make you a good dairy princess? I dairy farm. My family know a lot about the dairy industry and I can’t wait milks about 120 Holstein to inform the public about all the knowledge I have. cows. I currently work at a daycare center with 2 and As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en3 year olds. I am currently couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy a freshman at Hennepen Katelyn Hesse, 19 lifestyle? I would help inform people about how nuTechnical College, I am tritious dairy products are for you and would encourDairy Star Sponsor: looking to get my associage others to try new recipes that include dairy.

Lano Equipment of ate’s degree in child deNorwood, Inc. velopment.

Norwood Young America, MN If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting 952-467-2181 What qualities do you with the public? I would focus on telling the people possess that make you how cows are kept clean and comfortable and that a good dairy princess? The qualities I possess that farmers strive to keep their cows happy, because hapmake me a good dairy princess are that I am friendly, py cows give more milk. I would also talk about some outgoing and I like to talk to kids about my family’s of the responsibilities of the farmers. farm. I enjoy seeing their faces light up when they hear about the cows.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? One key message that I would focus on is that dairy farmers take care of their cows. They feed them twice a day, milk them two to three times a day; and give them a clean and safe place to live.

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As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I will encourage people who are lactose intolerant to try lactose-free milk instead of completely taking dairy out of their diet. That way, they are still getting the nine essential nutrients to live a strong, healthy life.

Parents: Tim and Jenny Holt Town: Taylors Falls

The state switched over from hosting 11 regional competitions to combining all the dairy princesses at one event to choose 12 finalists to run for Princess Kay of the Milky Way in 2001.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe that my personal qualities make me a good dairy princess. My energetic character makes me fun to be around. I am very easy to talk to and I enjoy educating others and answering questions to the best of my ability. In times of stress, I remain calm and seek out a solution. I treasure the people I meet and the relationships that form.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, it is my duty to educate the public about the importance of healthy living.

Not only do we need to consume dairy products, but we also need to have a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Through dairy princess activities, I am able to get in touch with the public and share my knowledge about healthy living.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? The main message that I would focus on is that dairy cattle receive the best treatment possible. We, as farmers, care about our cows. Each day, our cows have clean places to lay, fresh water to drink and plenty of food to eat. They are also receive any veterinary treatment that they may require.

Before becoming a farmer, we study each and every thing about our animals to be sure that they have the best care possible.

Parents: Kevin and Tara Lindahl Town: Lindstrom Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a sophomore at the University of MinnesotaDuluth, but I am transferring to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities so that I can major in animal science. When I am not at Madelin Lindahl, 19 college, I live and work Dairy Star Sponsor: at Lindahl Farms LLC., Federated Co-op the 300-cow dairy farm Osceola, WI started by my grandpar800-294-7661 ents and taken over by my father and uncle. We have mostly Holstein cattle, but enjoy having a few Jerseys as well.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My enthusiasm for the industry is the foremost requirement for being a dairy princess.

Welcoming people’s questions and working hard to give them correct information is vital to maintaining a positive image for our industry. I also take pride in my communication skills, which are imperative to helping others understand the efforts of farmers.

Chisago County continued on next page

Page 4 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

Chisago County continued

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Some people believe that dairy products are unhealthy and are unaware of the many benets of consuming dairy. They contain everything from protein and potassium to vitamins A, D and B12. Milk is great for anybody. If people are concerned about the fat content, there are always low-fat or non-fat options, which are still delicious. So my role as a dairy princess is to be always informing others, no matter my location.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would like to focus on my peers: college students and those in early adulthood. Sometimes in transitions, such as moving away from home and going to school, people have a tough time maintaining a healthy diet; myself included. It is so important for us to consume healthy products, such as milk, to be sure we’re getting all the nutrients we need to maintain healthy bodies.

Dodge County continued

and am always kind to everyone and everything. Also, I’m a great listener and a condent public speaker.

Parents: Patrick Emma O’Brien Town: Kasson

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I play the role of educator when I encourage the public to consume dairy products every day. If we inform the public that eating dairy every day is very healthy and will contribute to your well-being over your whole life, more people will consume dairy products and live a healthier lifestyle.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? The dairy message I would focus on would be that all animals, especially dairy cattle, are treated with kindness and respect, and they always live a full, comfortable and content life on the farm.

The farmers will do everything they can to make sure that each and every cow is well taken care of every day for their whole life.

Dodge County

Parents: Heath and Amy Okerstrom Town: Chisago City Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Chisago Lakes High School. I work on a third generation family farm out of Lindstrom, where we milk 100 cows. I milk, care for calves and help with anything I can on the farm. I will be attending South Dakota State University this fall to pursue a major in dairy production.

Crow Wing County continued

Parents: Jon and Kim Klejeski Town: Claremont

Madi Okerstrom, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Federated Co-op Osceola, WI 800-294-7661

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a strong passion for the dairy industry, which allows me to have fun while teaching about dairy. I love talking with people, sharing my story and listening to what other people’s stories are, too.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am a role model for the industry and it is my job to inform the public about the many positive things that come out of consuming dairy products.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would try to focus on where the breakfast came from and talk about the nutritional importance of consuming dairy.

Crow Wing County Parents: Gerald and Melissa Koering Town: Fort Ripley Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at Central Lakes College in Brainerd and am working towards my Associate in Arts Degree.

I live on a hobby farm with dogs, cats, chickens, Alyson Koering, 19 pygmy goats, donkeys Dairy Star Sponsor: and youngstock cattle.

Nelson Insurance I work on my grandparAgency ents’, Leonard and Car- Fort Ripley & Upsala, MN leen Koering’s, organic 320-573-2151 dairy farm. In the future, I hope to continue working with animals and advocate for agriculture as much as I can.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The qualities I have that make me a good dairy princess are that I am a great leader

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently enrolled at Northeast Iowa Community College in the dairy science technology program in hopes of pursuing a career within the dairy industry. Throughout high Makaila Klejeski, 18 school, I was very active Dairy Star Sponsor: in FFA, 4-H, Minnesota Northland Farm Brown Swiss Association, Systems the local American Dairy Owatonna, MN Association and a variety 507-451-3131 of events promoting the dairy industry in the Owatonna community. I now work on a 200-cow dairy farm in Mantorville, milking cows and assisting with a variety of tasks on the farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about the dairy industry and strive to educate consumers about all aspects of the industry. I am willing to visit with the public about any questions they may have regarding the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Encouraging the consumption of dairy products plays a major role as a dairy princess. Getting your three servings of dairy products a day is just as important for your health as eating your vegetables or exercising.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on cow comfort and health. Dairy producers strive to keep their cows clean, comfortable, well fed and healthy. Dairy cattle are kept comfortable and healthy by a variety of ways such as clean and dry bedding, fresh feed two to three times a day and proper temperature control in the barns, such as using fans and/or sprinklers in the summer.

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The first Princess Kay to be sculpted in butter was Karen Bracken Geier from Lincoln County in 1964, but it was not carved at the state fair.

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Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the fourth oldest of Patrick and Emma O’Brien’s six children. I live on my family’s dairy farm near Kasson. We milk around 110 Holstein cows and have about 200 youngstock and steers. My fam- Morgan O’Brien, 20 ily farms around 300 acres.

Dairy Star Sponsor: On the farm I take care of Dodge Veterinary Clinic the newborn calves, keep Dodge Center, MN records of the milk cows, 507-374-2125 help with eldwork and Carriage House Animal anywhere else I’m needed.

Hospital This is my second year Kasson, MN running for Dodge County 507-634-6781 Dairy Princess. In 2014, I graduated high school from Kasson-Mantorville. I am in my second year at Rochester Community and Technical College for a two-year youth works degree. The Carriage House is going to sponsor me again this year.

I hope to one day help run the family dairy farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a friendly and caring person who believes in the dairy industry and the things it stands for. I also want to help spread the word and educate people on things that are going on in the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? When I go out with people, I usually always order milk, when it’s available. I also encourage others with me to order milk, however, I do not force them.

Also, when I see little kids I tell them to drink milk, because what else are you going to drink?

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would let them know how important it is to support the dairy industry, because it has slowly been decreasing throughout the years. We want to be able to continue to provide safe and healthy dairy products in a timely manner for our consumers.

Parents: Jason and Cami Reber Town: Mantorville Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work on my dad’s dairy farm just outside of Mantorville. On the farm, I do calf chores, which includes feeding, bedding and giving vaccinations. I also bed the barns and help with vet checks. In summer, I drive silage truck and pack the bunkers. My future plan is to be a social worker and help on the farm as much as I can.

Haley Reber, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Livestock Systems, Inc. Pine Island, MN 800-233-8937

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love talking about the farm. I think it’s one of the coolest jobs out there and I am very happy that I get to be a part of it. I also love kids, so going out and talking to kids is going to be one of my favorite things.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Working on a dairy farm and telling people the benets of dairy can help them choose a healthier choice, like milk instead of pop or yogurt instead of chips.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I want people to know the importance of our animal care practices.

Turn to Page 20 for Douglas County

East Otter Tail County Parents: Robert and Ramona Wippler Town: Parkers Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a senior in high school involved in many activities. My favorites include: tennis, track, band, choir, FFA and 4-H. I will be attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities in Elizabeth Wippler, the fall, with the plans to 18 major in Spanish. I’m the Dairy Star Sponsor: youngest of ve children.

It’s just my parents and I Pro-Ag Farmer’s Co-op Urbank, MN living on a farm outside 218-267-2401 of Urbank, where we milk just under 40 cows. During the summer months our cows are rotationally grazed.

Fillimore County continued

tive image for the dairy industry by telling my personal stories from growing up on a dairy farm and being the face for other dairy producers. I also love to help people and inform them of what is happening in the dairy community by sharing facts and helpful examples. Finally, I am a very dedicated person and will put my heart into promoting the dairy community because it has made me who I am today.

Parents: Sandy and Gary Wee Town: Spring Valley

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I believe my role as a dairy princess is to promote the nutritional importance to all audiences. I believe focusing on young consumers and informing them of all the choices there are with dairy products and how important they are for development is key.

By getting a child excited about dairy products, they could become a lifelong consumer.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on the message that it takes just 48 hours for milk from the farm to be processed and arrive on a consumer’s table. I think this would be great because the public can see exactly where the milk originates from and how much work What qualities do you possess that make you a farmers put into producing a wholesome and nutrigood dairy princess? I think that in order to be a tious product for the consumers to drink. good representative (as a dairy princess should be) for any industry, the representative needs to be passionate about what he or she is representing. As a good dairy princess, I have a passion within me for the industry Parents: Todd and Stacy and farmers. I also possess these qualities: honesty, Leiding respectfulness, commitment and dependability. All Town: Fountain these qualities will aid me in representing the dairy industry in the best light possible.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- or work on, and your fucouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy ture plans. I am the fourth lifestyle? My role as a dairy princess is to be an edu- generation on my family cator to the public on all the benets of dairy foods. dairy farm, Shir-Man HolFor example, many people shy away from the price steins, where we currently of milk and purchase other beverages, like soft drinks milk around 65 registered that cost less, even though the nutrition in milk is Holsteins and farm 360 much healthier than soft drinks and completely worth acres of corn, alfalfa and the price. It’s my job as an educator to remind the soybeans. Some of my public of the basic building blocks of a healthy life- main responsibilities on Kayla Leiding, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: style, which includes the consumption of dairy foods. the farm include milking, AMPI feeding, bedding, calf care Rochester Division If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what and managing the show 507-282-7401 dairy message would you focus on while visiting heifers. In the future, I www.ampi.com with the public? One message I would focus on hope to be employed in with the public is making sure they understand how the agricultural industry much we, as farmers, care about our livestock and our working with public relations and communications, farmland. Much of the public has no connection with and then eventually dairy farming. agriculture, which is why it is so important that they understand that caring for the environment and our What qualities do you possess that make you a cows is a priority. The ag industry respects the land good dairy princess? I am very passionate about and animals. the dairy industry. My life has always been centered around dairy cattle, and I enjoy sharing my story with anyone, wherever and at any occasion I can. I am also an approachable person. I can engage in conversation with people, and I am always welcoming when they have questions that need to be answered. I love meeting new people and discussing the dairy community Parents: Todd and Stacy whenever I have the opportunity.

Leiding Town: Fountain As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy Tell us about yourself, lifestyle? As a dairy princess, it is my job to promote the farm you live and/ dairy products in every way I can. I am a face of the or work on, and your farmers producing the products for consumers, so it future plans. On our is important for me to inform consumers about how family farm, Shir-Man nutrient-packed and affordable dairy products are. I Registered Holsteins, we will focus on stressing the many different varieties currently milk around 65 and avors that milk, cheese and yogurt come in to registered Holsteins in a meet the needs of everyone. tiestall barn. In addition to dairy cattle, we farm If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what around 360 acres of al- Haely Leiding, 19 dairy message would you focus on while visiting falfa, corn and soybeans.

Dairy Star Sponsor: with the public? While helping at breakfast on the Currently, I am nishing AMPI farm, I would focus on the constant care that farmers my freshman year at the Rochester Division provide for their animals. The public would be able to University of Minnesota507-282-7401 view for themselves the practices dairy farmers use Twin Cities where I am www.ampi.com on their farms. I would also explain why producers do majoring in agricultural what they do to ensure that all animals receive proper education and minoring in animal science. My professional goal is to be a high care. school agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor.

Fillmore County

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love to communicate a posi-

Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016 • Page 5

Fillimore County continued

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I currently work at two dairy farms, Heusinkvelds and B & C Farms. I plan to attend Riverland Community College to get my CDL and welding certicate, and possibly pursue some- Makala Nauman, 17 thing in the dairy industry.

Dairy Star Sponsor: I will be working at the American Coop farms while I am in colwww.allamericancoop.com lege.

507-533-4222

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I never grew up on a farm, yet decided to get a job on a farm, which I truly love with a passion. I want to help girls and other people who never grew up on a farm to understand it is OK to try something new; you may love where it takes you.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I provide it at every meal. Drink two glasses of milk instead of a pop and encourage others to do the same. Also have people try new types of cheeses, or if they are lactose intolerant, I recommend Fairlife milk.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Farmers really care for their animals and want to provide the best and safest way to get the dairy products to you. I would encourage everyone to consume more dairy products on a daily basis and also get more people to join the farm life.

Freeborn County Parents: Matthew and Sharon Wangen Town: Albert Lea Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a small dairy farm with my parents and brother. Our family farm has gone through ve generations of dairy farmers. We milk about 40 cows and raise all of our own replacement heifers. Rachel Wangen, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: My favorite thing to do Wingert Sales & Service on the farm is help with Plainview, MN feeding the calves. I hope 507-534-4386 to always be involved in the family dairy and help promote the best industry there is.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love to educate people on the benets of the dairy industry. I believe it’s my job as dairy princess to show that farmers take good care of their animals. They do everything they can to keep their animals healthy and happy. Dairy is extremely important for our daily health, and it’s my job as the Freeborn County Dairy Princess to inform my community of the benets of these wholesome products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? It’s so important to consume dairy products. They help build strong muscles and bones. This summer I will go to our local grocery store and pass out cheese samples to help promote dairy products.

It’s also important to eat dairy products for breakfast, lunch and dinner, three times a day. I will also promote eating dairy products three times a day when I visit the grocery store.

Freeborn County continued on next page

Page 6 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

Freeborn County continued

Goodhue County continued

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would like to inform the public on the healthy aspects of dairy products. I would also educate the public that dairy farmers treat their animals well, and show them that farmers do everything they can for their animals. In many cases, it seems that dairy farmers take better care of their cows than they do themselves.

about the goodness and nutritious value of dairy products in the high school classrooms.

Goodhue County Parent: Tim Hinrichs Town: Goodhue Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I currently attend Iowa State University where I am majoring in agriculture communications and minoring in animal science. My goal is to be an advocate for the agriculture and dairy industries. I hope to share my Haley Hinrichs, 18 passion for such a great Dairy Star Sponsor: industry and teach others Boettcher Transport about where their food Plainview, MN comes from. I grew up 507-696-5285 on a small Holstein dairy farm just outside of Goodhue. My primary duties on the farm include milking cows and helping with calf chores.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love asking people questions and learning new things about them. This really allows me to hold comfortable and interesting conversations with a variety of people. I have a huge passion for the agriculture and dairy industry, which makes being a dairy princess very enjoyable. Throughout the years, I have acquired a lot of knowledge about agriculture, attained different leadership and communication skills, and I also developed a drive for doing what I love, advocating.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The positive dairy princess traits I possess include my positive outlook on life and my strong work ethic. A positive outlook will bring a smile to anyone’s face, especially when talking about our hardworking dairy farmers. My strong work ethic helps me as dairy princess so I can do the best I can when out in the community. Being able persevere, troubleshoot, and to never give up my beliefs is very important.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I can spread the good news about dairy and the benets of the wholesome products. To go out in the community and be an advocate for our hardworking local farmers is the best part. I want to help debunk the tragic myths that are being told about milk, cheese, and other dairy products. I think it’s very important to become a strong promoter, supporter and sponsor of our hardworking dairy industry.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? My favorite dairy message would be, “from farm to fork in 48 hours” by producing fresh, local and sustainable dairy foods. This message will ensure our consumers and people in the local community that our dairy products are fresh and safe to consume. Dairy farmers, like my family, work hard to get their products out to the community in a fresh, local and sustainable fashion.

Parents: Bernardo and Cenorina Monjaraz Town: Goodhue

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am attending school at Rochester Community and Technical As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- College. I am majoring couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy in nursing. My family is lifestyle? My role of encouraging dairy consumption made up of seven people. is to educate and teach people of all ages about the I have four other sisters. dairy industry. It’s my job to share with others our My parents are Bernardo farming practices, the nutritional benets of dairy and Cenorina Monjaraz. Mayra MonjarazOlmos, 19 products, and many other aspects of the dairy indus- I work at Burend Dairy try. It is also important that I answer questions and Farm. My responsibility is Dairy Star Sponsor: calm any concerns about the dairy industry and its to milk cows. I make sure First District products.

Association they are in good health.

Litcheld, MN That way they are producIf you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what ing high quality milk.

320-693-3236 dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Breakfast on the farm is a great What qualities do you possess that make you a opportunity to share with the public the different good dairy princess? One quality that I possess is production practices farmers use to produce milk. I that I love being able to teach people. I like being able would like to be able to show the public the different to talk to people and help them understand what goes housing methods, different feeds used, how a milking into the products that they buy. facility works, a life cycle of a cow, and everywhere in between. This is really the time to teach consumers As a dairy princess, what role do you play in enwhere their milk comes from and give them a hands- couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy on experience. lifestyle? I encourage a healthy lifestyle by going out and running. If it is not in the morning, it’s at night.

After a nice run or walk, I go home and drink a cup Parents: Ted and Lora of milk. It really hits the spot after exercise. Milk also Keller contains nine essential nutrients, so that’s a bonus.

Town: Bellechester If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what Tell us about yourself, dairy message would you focus on while visiting the farm you live and/ with the public? I would focus on the fact that milk or work on, and your has nine essential nutrients and that the farmers work future plans. I am majorreally hard to provide the highest quality product to ing in family consumer satisfy the consumers. sciences education with a health and wellness minor at the University of WisPrincess F consin-Stout. I love cookact ing, baking and sewing. s: Living and working on Juliann Keller, 18 my parent’s family farm The first Princess Kay to be Dairy Star Sponsor: is where I enjoy my time. sculpted in butter at the state fair was First Farmer’s & My family of 11 operates Merchants Bank Mary Ann Titrud Springer from our 200-cow Holstein Goodhue, MN dairy farm. In the future, Todd County in 1965. www.ffmbank.com I plan to educate people

Hennepin County Parents: Jeff and Shelley Bursch Town: Greeneld Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. Growing up on my family’s dairy farm, where we milk about 50 cows, has made me into the responsible and hard working person that I am today. I am currently in the animal science program at South Sydney Bursch, 18 Dakota State University, Dairy Star Sponsor: but plan on transferring Federated Co-op into the dairy science proAlbertville, MN gram at the University of 763-497-2122 Wisconsin-River Falls this fall. Switching my major to dairy science is based on the important role cows have played in my life.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? One of the qualities that makes me a good dairy princess is the fact that I have grown up with cows my whole life. From bottle feeding calves to milking cows, I have learned hands-on some of the most important processes in the dairy industry. I have also come to experience and appreciate the amount of work and effort it takes to keep a dairy farm going, especially when the markets are poor.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I want to encourage people to consume their recommended amount of three dairy servings each day because of the great nutrition it provides to our bodies. Dairy products are rich in calcium and protein, which helps our bones and muscles grow and remain strong. Many people worry about the fat content of certain dairy products, but there are alternatives, such as skim milk. Also, remember that everything is good in moderation.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on stressing the importance of eating a nutritious breakfast every day and how people can do that with different dairy products. I would give examples of different breakfast combinations that involve dairy products like cereal and milk, yogurt and fruit, and pancakes and sausage.

I would also talk about and inform the public of how these different dairy products get from the farm to the breakfast table.

Parents: John and Staci Scherber Town: Rogers Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently studying at the University of Wisconsin- River Falls, majoring in dairy management. I also work on our family farm milking the cows and taking care of the calves. We are current- Quinci Scherber, 22 ly in the exciting process Dairy Star Sponsor: of expanding our herd to Federated Co-op prepare for future generaAlbertville, MN tions. I am a fourth gener763-497-2122 ation farmer and love the life of a farmer. My plans after college are to assist with herd management and dairy production on my dad’s farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am greatly enthused to be able to support the farmers and promote the dairy industry. Not only does experience on my family’s farm provide me with tools to speak to others, but also my education is focused on entering into the dairy business world. In addition, I have had a lot experience Hennepin County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016 • Page 7

Hennepin County continued

Houston County continued

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? The dairy message that I would focus on while visiting with the public would be animal care. There’s no better place to talk about this subject than right on the farm. Being able to show specic examples of the little things that we do to keep cows As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- comfortable and happy is very important. Allowing couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy the public to visit a farm and explaining what farmers lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I need to encourage oth- do can clear up lots of concerns the public may have. ers that dairy needs to be a part of their everyday diet.

There are certain nutrients that dairy products contain that are vital for a healthy and active life. There are many different ways to consume dairy in order to incorporate it into meals. Dairy is vital for growing children as well as adults who want to remain healthy and Parents: Christopher and energetic in their work.

Melissa Skiba If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what Town: Cambridge dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Everything that the visitors expe- Tell us about yourself, rienced came from cows who are happy and farmers the farm you live and/or who care about the animals and its products. There work on, and your future is so much work that goes into creating just one plans. I grew up working breakfast for each visitor. These products came from on my grandparents’ dairy dedicated, hardworking and caring farmers who work farm, where we raise all 24/7 to ensure that their cattle are strong and their of our replacement heifproduct is healthy. As the visitors can experience for ers, as well as care for the themselves, the cows are very comfortable and stress milking herd. My roles on free. They are kept clean and well-fed and experience the farm consist of feedfreedom throughout the day. Farmers are aware at all ing calves, milking, and Meghan Skiba, 19 times of the comfort of their animals and the need to assisting in vaccinating Dairy Star Sponsor: ensure safe products. They sacrice a lot to give that and heard health. CurFluegge’s Ag rently, we are milking to the consumer.

Mora, MN approximately 160 regis320-679-2981 tered Jerseys. My passion for dairy led me to pursue a degree in dairy science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After my undergrad degree, I plan to attend vet school. in speaking to others, whether it was speaking at a Pro-Life rally or to representatives at the State House when defending certain bills. I also love my lifestyle and want to share it with anyone I can. There is so much joy that comes from being a dairy farmer and many do not understand that.

Isanti County

Houston County

Parents: Matt and Pam Hendel Town: Caledonia Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on my family’s dairy farm in far southeast Minnesota.

We are currently milking 360 Holsteins and Brown Swiss. I attend college at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and am Lauren Hendel, 18 pursuing a degree in aniDairy Star Sponsor: mal science with a minor Bob Lange Consulting, in food animal business ANC - Agri Nutrition management. After colConsulting lege, I want to continue Caledonia, MN my involvement with the 507-450-6610 dairy industry in a position where I would regularly work with dairy producers and their cows.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Some qualities I possess that make me a good dairy princess are reliability and sincerity, along with being able to tell a good story. I really enjoy sharing stories about my family’s dairy and life on our farm. Consumers seem to love hearing these personal stories. Being able to relate to consumers and tell them all the great things happening on farms and within the dairy industry is very important at this point in time.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I strive to encourage all people to consume at least three servings of dairy a day. I can tell people about all the benets milk gives you, especially to people who workout frequently.

Milk is a great way to replenish the body after exercising because of its protein, minerals and vitamins, plus it tastes great. I have given many speeches in class about creating a balanced diet with dairy included.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Both in and out of the classroom, I am a well-rounded student and highly organized. I am capable of working with a wide variety of people and different personalities through my dairy mentorship role. All of these qualities allow me to continue sharing my passion for dairy. A dairy princess should be a role model, and I have an outgoing and energetic personality that will contribute to my success as a positive image of the dairy community.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am always excited to share my story with dairy. Dairy foods contain nine essential nutrients, including calcium, potassium, and protein, and I can encourage dairy consumption by answering questions that our consumers may have. I make sure to emphasize the health benets that dairy has, especially in growing children and maintaining a healthy weight.

Three serving of dairy are recommended in a balanced diet, and dairy foods are packed with avor and nutritional benets.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Dairy animals are well-cared for.

Breakfast on the farm is an excellent way to allow families to see rsthand the dedication that we as farmers have for our animals. From calf care to cows, all the animals are given the best care possible. Calves will be the future of the herd, so it is necessary to make sure that they will become healthy and productive cows in the future. Cow comfort is our number one priority, and comfortable cows will produce the highest quality of milk.

Princess

Fac t

Currently, the county with the most Princess Kays is McLeod County, who has had four. Mower, Dakota, Fillmore, Steele and Carver all have had three Princess Kays so far.

s:

Kanabec County Parents: Peter and Stacy Ripka Town: Ogilvie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I graduated from Ogilvie High School. I enjoy spending time with my animals especially my cats. On my parents farm we milk about 200 cows.

We raise all of our own replacements, and crop farm about 700 acres. My future plans are to attend Ridgewater College in the fall of 2016 in the veterinary technician program.

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

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very enthusiastic and passionate about promoting and educating the public of the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I enjoy speaking to elementary students at school, as well as other community events.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on the care and wellbeing of the animals, as well as how wholesome and nutritious our dairy products are.

Kandiyohi County Parents: Rod and Naomi Lindquist Town: Kerkhoven Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. While being a senior in high school, I live a very busy life and I am involved in a ton of organizations. These include boys basketball and baseball stats, National Honor Society, Bridges Korissa Lindquist, 18 to the Future, FFA, 4-H, Dairy Star Sponsor: danceline, lyrical and conD&D Ag Supply temporary dance, band, & Construction jazz band, marching band, Pennock, MN solo/ensemble and senior 320-599-4466 class president. My family owns and operates a dairy farm on which we milk 120 cows in a swing-8 parlor.

I milk on average 3-4 times a week, but my dad is very understanding when I have other things happening at school. We also raise chickens for eggs and have two dogs. While I like to do many things involving dairy cattle, my favorite job is to pick up hay bales in the summer. My future plans are to attend the University of North Dakota for airport management.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Unlike most people, I love public speaking. I actually like getting up in front of a bunch of people I don’t know and sharing important things with them. I have experience in providing people proper information instead of the myths they have heard about dairy and farming, and I love that they know the truth.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I strive to inform people know of importance in consuming dairy on a daily basis because of its nutritional value. Dairy is important in the growth of strong bones and teeth. Also, I have been taught that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and drinking milk at breakfast ensures a successful day. If you eat right, you have a great day.

Kandiyohi County continued on next page

Page 8 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

Kandiyohi County continued If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Dairy is a product that is universal in making most foods. It’s nutrients are critical for the body to function properly. Calcium, protein, vitamins A, C and D, and many others are prevalent in milk that provide growing aid that is crucial to a healthy life.

Le Sueur County Parents: Mike and Darcy Schloesser Town: Le Center Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am 19 years old and just completed my rst year of college studying agribusiness production. I live on a dairy farm where we milk 300 Holsteins and have another 250 replacement heif- Leah Schloesser, 19 ers. We farm 600 acres Dairy Star Sponsor: of corn, alfalfa and soyWingert Sales beans. In the future, I plan & Service to graduate with a dairy Plainview, MN management degree from 507-534-4386 Ridegwater Community College and become the full-time herd manager on my family’s dairy farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Some qualities that I possess which make me a good dairy princess are: a good background with the dairy industry, and living on a dairy farm my whole life. I’ve shown dairy cattle at the county level and state level for many years and answered many questions about the industry to help educate the public about what farmers do.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Many of my peers, myself included, are always trying to watch our weight. In the past, dairy products have gotten a bad rap because we’ve always been told to cut them out of diets when watching our weight. Studies have shown that the proteins and nutrients in dairy products are more benecial than harmful to a healthy diet.

Le Sueur County continued with speaking to people about various things. I am very proud and excited to be representing Minnesota’s dairy farmers.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I would try to encourage dairy consumption to people by explaining how important dairy products are to their health. I would explain how calcium is necessary for building bones and teeth and maintaining bone mass. Dairy products are the primary source of calcium in American diets and they should consume around three cups a day do they can improve their bone mass.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would tell the public that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I would try to give them helpful tips of trying to incorporate dairy products differently into their breakfast meals.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I travel around to banks, schools and parades, educating people on the right amount of dairy consumption for a healthy lifestyle.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? My message would be that our cows are happy and healthy, and providing the best for us.

Lincoln County

Parents: Lloyd and Diane Tiede Town: Le Center

Parents: Mike and Teresa Drietz Town: Canby

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I live on a small farm south of LeCenter, where we milk about 35 cows in a stanchion barn. We milk all Holsteins and raise all of our replacements. I will be graduating from South Molly Tiede, 19 Central College of North Dairy Star Sponsor: Mankato next year with River Country a degree in agribusiness Cooperative production with a diverHastings, MN sied emphasis. I hope 651-437-3527 to work in the agronomy eld for a while, but I plan to eventually take over the family farm.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I live on a small dairy farm of about 50 head. Last spring my sister and I started our own dairy business. We took out a loan together and bought a small herd of cattle in which we are currently raising alongside my father. My future plans are attending Southwest Minnesota State University for education while continuing my hobby of dairy farming in my free time.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? What makes me a good dairy princess is that I have a passion for the dairy industry.

I love talking about what I enjoy and grew up doing my whole life. I love to see people’s reactions when they learn something new about dairy.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I know the industry well as I have grown up and worked on our family operation.

I have witnessed the process of milk production from beginning to end and take an important role in everyday. I’m not only a dairy princess, but a dairy farmer.

I have a great understanding of dairying as my father has taught me everything I know.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what lifestyle? Dairy products are great for consumption of dairy message would you focus on while visiting our diets. It’s easy to drink a glass of milk after a great with the public? A message that I would focus on workout. If you want some more avor, try a glass of would be how is it important to get your servings of chocolate milk – it’s just as healthy and nutritious as dairy products in a day and how you need to consume regular milk. dairy products for a healthy lifestyle.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on the message of Parents: Lloyd and Diane how their milk gets to the stores and how it is always Tiede safe for their consumption when on those shelves.

Town: Le Center, Minn.

Parent: Patty Traxler Town: Cleveland

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I work along side my mom on a 1,200 cow Jersey farm named Adrianna Tiede, 17 Blue Sky Dairy. I have grown up with dairy in Dairy Star Sponsor: my life for as long as I can United Farmer’s remember and it really beCooperative came my passion in FFA LeSueur, MN and 4-H. Currently, within Samantha Traxler, 507-665-6421 the farm, I own a small 17 herd of cows that includes Dairy Star Sponsor: every breed except for Dairyland Equipment What qualities do you possess that make you a Milking Shorthorn.

Services Inc. good dairy princess? Qualities that make me a good Plainview, MN dairy princess are that I’m passionate about the dairy What qualities do you 507-534-3161 industry and I enjoy being able to share information possess that make you a with others about the dairy industry. Being involved good dairy princess? I’m a very outgoing, condent, with both 4-H and FFA has made me comfortable open person with a passion for dairy, and I want to

Catherine Drietz, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Farmer’s Co-op Association Canby, MN 507-223-7241

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess I denitely encourage getting your daily amount of dairy products. Even if a person doesn’t like milk, there are plenty other options that are both healthy and part of the dairy food group.

My favorite healthy dairy snacks would be yogurt and cheese sticks, but the possibilities are endless.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? The message I would most likely focus on would be dairy farm and herd management.

Most people don’t know a lot about how dairy farms work or the process that takes place. I would like to explain how we run our farms along with how we treat our animals. I believe it is important to showcase the care we have for our industry.

Lincoln County continued on next page

Princess

Fa ct s

Brown and Nicollet Counties are working with the southern Minnesota Children’s Museum this year, which includes doing activities on the weekend for the young people attending like making butter and ice cream, along with talking about animal care and well-being.

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Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I’m a senior at Tri-City United and live on a small dairy farm south of Le Center. On our family’s farm we raise Holstein dairy cattle. On the farm I do many things, ranging from feeding the young calves to driving the tractor in the eld.

This fall I’m attending the University of MinnesotaCrookston to major in animal science and minor in pre-vet medicine.

Le Sueur County continued become a better spokeswoman. I already get to host farm tours and talk with people in my small town setting, but I wish for more of a challenge. I have the drive and ambition to show people from all over what dairy is about.

Lincoln County continued Parents: Mike and Teresa Drietz Town: Canby Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a sophomore at North Dakota State University majoring in agricultural education with minors in agribusiness and animal science.

I am currently a member of Sigma Alpha, a profes- Morgyn Drietz, 19 sional agricultural sororDairy Star Sponsor: ity, as well as the newly Farmer’s Co-op elected treasurer of the BiAssociation son Dairy Club. I live and Canby, MN work on a 45-cow dairy 507-223-7241 farm my family. My sister, Caitey, and I recently started our own small herd of registered Holsteins.

After college, I plan to move back home and nd a job teaching agricultural education, as well as become an FFA advisor. I will continue to farm with my family and I’m excited to see how our herd will grow in the future.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Knowledge and passion are two of my greatest qualities that make me an excellent dairy princess. I have grown up around dairy my entire life. I know what it takes to run and operate the farm and I love being involved in any way possible.

Dairy is in my blood, it is something that I’m passionate about and I will remain so for the rest of my life.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Encouraging dairy consumption isn’t something I do just because I am a dairy princess. It is something I enjoy doing to promote the wonderful products that our local dairy farmers produce. By getting involved with Ag in the Classroom, I am able to speak to young kids about how dairy products can help them with their active and busy lifestyles.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? An issue that I would like to address is the use of antibiotics on dairy farms and that all milk is antibiotic free. Many people do not understand the process milk goes through to ensure quality.

There are also many misconceptions about why and how often farmers use antibiotics, as well as the different between antibiotics and vaccines. I would like to clarify that antibiotics are only used when needed, and it is for the intention of making a sick animal regain their health.

McLeod County Parents: Mike and Reada Lukes Town: Lester Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the youngest of four kids, and have 13 nieces and nephews.

I am currently attending Ridgewater College in Willmar as a double major in dairy management and agriculture education.

Ashle Lukes, 20 In my spare time you can Dairy Star Sponsor: nd me playing with my Bongards’ Creameries horse, Tasha, playing nine Cologne, MN different instruments or 952-466-3554 singing, helping the Lester Prairie Ambassador Program out or 4-wheeling. I am employed with Benson Dairy Inc., just north of Stewart. On the farm, I primarily work with the cows and heifers, along with doing some eld work.

Breeding, milking vet check days, herd walk through and the occasional calf care and feeding are my main jobs on the farm. Once hay season hits, you can nd

McLeod County continued me raking or inverting. In December of this year, I will be graduating from Ridgewater College and will be transferring to Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall (SMSU) to complete my bachelor’s degree for agriculture education. Once completed at SMSU, I hope to be starting an agriculture education and FFA Program at Lester Prairie High School.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Qualities I possess are compassion, poise, kind, caring, education, a passion for the dairy community and the ability to connect with others, and the ability to see where others are coming from. All of these qualities have not only made me into who I am as a person, but have helped to shape me into the dairy princess that I am today.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I like to help the people who buy our products understand why they should eat and drink dairy products. It is not only economical but also healthier compared to other sources. Every 8 oz. serving of milk contains 8 grams of protein and nine essential nutrients including vitamin D, and it only costs 25 cents.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Cows are like children to us. We are always trying to nd new, better and more efcient ways of making our cows feel like queens. Our cows have their food served to them on a platter, receive manicures and pedicures and always have nice and clean bedding every day. We, as the servants to the queens (the cows), always try to make them look and feel their best everyday.

Parents: Ron and Denise Schmidt Town: Hutchinson Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I was fortunate enough to grow up on a 60-cow dairy farm with my family. As soon as I could walk, I was out in the barn with my dad feeding, milking and working in the eld. I spent years Cheyenne Schmidt, acquiring more tasks and 20 knowledge on our farm.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Once high school came I Bongards’ Creameries knew I wanted to farm for Cologne, MN life. I now have a dairy 952-466-3554 management degree and work on a 115-cow dairy.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? A dairy princess should be caring, understanding and reliable. As the oldest child, I had to learn at a young age how to be responsible for myself and others. Making sure I was setting a good example and caring about them was a must. Even though some days were a challenge, I learned how to talk to other age groups, teach them what I knew, and be someone they could count on.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? In the past I have helped pass out milk and cheese sticks for children and their families when they attend parades. There is nothing more refreshing and delicious than milk and cheese on a hot day. Not only is it my job to hand out dairy, but to also lead by example. Even when I’m not wearing a crown, I can be seen sipping on milk, snacking on cheese, or enjoying a refreshing bowl of ice cream.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Emphasizing how dairy farms are run on a day-to-day basis is something I feel is important. With only 2 percent of individuals involved with farming, not everyone understands that we care for our animals and land. We invest countless hours into making sure our animals are comfortable and happy.

We can’t produce milk with unhealthy cows. Besides, they are basically large family pets.

Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016 • Page 9

McLeod County continued Parents: David and Kari Swanson Town: Hutchinson

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My sisters, McKenzie, Shelby, and I grew up helping on my grandparents’ 80-cow registered Holstein farm where I did everything from picking rocks to milking cows and calf chores. My grand- Sierra Swanson, 18 parents recently retired Dairy Star Sponsor: and I now work at Howe Bongards’ Creameries Holsteins in Hutchinson.

Cologne, MN I have my own little herd 952-466-3554 of 20 cows started, which are housed at KurthKine and DaMar Farms. I am attending the University of Minnesota this fall for a degree in animal science with an emphasis in dairy production.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very active in my local 4-H and FFA chapter and have gained great communication skills and leadership qualities. Commitment to the dairy industry has been a priority for me since I was a young girl hanging in the barn with my grandpa. This has given me a unique personality, a love for cows and has taught me to be strong and determined with a hard work ethic. Being a dairy ambassador has taught me knowledge of dairy products and the nutritional value of dairy products.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role as a dairy princess is very important. Many Americans don’t get their three servings of dairy a day. It is my job to tell them they need three servings of dairy daily, such as milk, cheese and yogurt. I can reinforce to consumers that dairy products are one of the most affordable sources of nutrition at the grocery store. Dairy products are a wise decision in making your lifestyle healthy.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? As a dairy princess, I would want to spread the word that Minnesota’s dairy farmers work hard every day to provide wholesome and nutritious dairy products. My goal would be to show consumers how modern farms work to give them a better appreciation of what farmers do to produce safe food and care for their animals and the environment. There is no better way to tell this message than to show the consumers on a real dairy farm.

Meeker County Parents: Larry and Pam Radunz Town: Hutchinson Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at Southwest Minnesota State University. I am majoring in occupational therapy and minoring in psychology. After I get my bachelor’s degree, I will pursue my master’s degree in occupational therapy. I live and work on my families’ dairy farm where we milk 90 grade Holsteins.

Alison Radunz, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Willmar Farm Center Willmar, MN 320-235-8123

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very involved in my community. I have been a part of 4-H for 11 years where I do community work and am active in the fair. Also, I have good communication skills. I was on the speech team for ve years in high school and now participate in speech at the college Meeker County continued on next page

Page 10 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

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Mille Lacs County

level. With my communication skills, I can communicate clearly with people of all ages.

Parents: David and Pam Fetters As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- Town: Milaca couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? It is my responsibility to show the public Tell us about yourself, the importance of dairy products. I do this through the farm you live and/ classroom visits where I interact with kids and talk or work on, and your to them about how they should be getting their three future plans. I live and dairy products each day. I also talk to people at differ- work on my family’s dairy ent events throughout my county on how important farm. We milk around 60 dairy products are.

Brown Swiss and Brown Swiss crosses in a tiestall If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what barn. This fall, I plan on dairy message would you focus on while visiting attending cosmetology with the public? I would talk about how 97 percent school, but I still plan on Kaylee Fetters, 18 of dairies in the U.S. are family owned and operated. being very involved in our Dairy Star Sponsor: They come in all sizes and each dairy farm is a little farm.

East Central Dairy different in the way they do things, but the one thing Supply they all have in common is giving good care to their What qualities do you Mora, MN cows. possess that make you 320-679-1029 a good dairy princess?

Watching and helping my parents, while growing up, has taught me to have compassion and respect towards the cows and land. Also, Parents: John and Carol having been a county dairy princess for the three past Warren years has allowed me to become more condent in Town: Watkins my public speaking and communication skills. These skills have enabled me to easily share my knowledge Tell us about yourself, about the dairy industry to the general public. the farm you live and/ or work on, and your fuAs a dairy princess, what role do you play in enture plans. I am currently couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy a senior at Litcheld High lifestyle? Encouraging the public to have three daiSchool and am involved ly servings of dairy helps beyond building stronger in volleyball, basketball, bones. Consuming dairy is an essential part of a softball, FFA, 4-H and healthy lifestyle. Eating and drinking dairy reduces National Honors Society. I the risk of various chronic diseases, such as decreasshow and judge dairy cating the risk factors for heart disease, improving glycetle at the county and state Ashley Warren, 18 mic regulation for individuals at risk of or diagnosed level for 4-H and FFA, as Dairy Star Sponsor: well. My family’s third Center National Bank with type 2 diabetes, helping individuals maintain a healthy body weight, and preventing elderly individugeneration dairy farm is Litcheld, MN als with age-related muscle loss. located 10 miles north 320-693-3255 of Litcheld where we If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what milk 140 Holsteins twice dairy message would you focus on while visiting a day and farm 700 acres of corn, soybeans, alfalfa and oats. In the fall I will with the public? I would show the public rsthand be attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities that dairy cows are being properly and humanely where I will be majoring in agricultural communica- cared for in a safe and clean environment. I would explain all of the different procedures in place for cow tions and marketing. care. Milk is always properly handled according to What qualities do you possess that make you a federal regulations. If consumers feel that the milk good dairy princess? I am a very outgoing person is safe in its origin, they may feel more comfortable who loves to interact and share my passion for the consuming at least three dairy servings a day. dairy community. I have grown up on my farm for the past 18 years and I have watched my family and other families like mine, put their heart and soul into rais- Parents: Daniel Nelson ing dairy cattle. As a dairy princess, I have the ability and Carol Walsh to be the voice for my family’s stories of hard work, Town: Princeton compassion and commitment.

Tell us about yourself, As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- the farm you live and/ couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy or work on, and your fulifestyle? Being a three-sport athlete and always be- ture plans. I milk about ing on the go, I know the importance of staying ener- 130 head of cattle at Flygized and healthy. I encourage my peers to switch out ing Cow Dairy located in the sports drinks for a glass of chocolate milk. This Princeton, following in delicious product is packed with nine essential nutri- my parents’ and grandparents that will keep us energized and refreshed after a ents’ footsteps who were sporting event. Plus, it tastes delicious. It’s small life- also dairy farmers. My style changes like drinking milk after a workout that dream is to one day run an Moriah E. Nelson, can help impact the consumption of dairy products for educational farm. Educat18 people of all ages. ing the public about farmDairy Star Sponsor: ing and working with boForeston Co-op If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what vine is a lifelong passion Creamery dairy message would you focus on while visiting of mine.

Foreston, MN with the public? The message I would focus on 320-294-5711 would be how dairy farmers truly care about the well What qualities do you being of their animals. I would ensure them that we possess that make you Federeated Co-ops Inc. Princeton, MN put our animals rst by pointing out examples of how a good dairy princess?

763-389-2582 we make sure they always have a clean, comfortable I learned my most cherplace to lay down, always have access to high quality ished attributes from my parents who taught me hard food and water, and making sure they are the healthi- work, compassion, and patience. Also, reigning as a est they can be to produce a wholesome product. No Mille Lacs County Princess has taught me how to be matter how big or small a dairy farm is, you will al- a condent public speaker and how to effectively porways notice happy and comfortable cows. Essentially, tray the love that we, as dairy farmers, have for our they are the real royalty. animals and the job we do.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am always enthusiastic and lead by example to encourage those around me to consume their three daily servings of dairy. When my friend was diagnosed as being lactose intolerant, I held an Oreo

Mille Lacs County continued party including lactose-free milk; my friends and I learned that day that lactose-free milk is actually very tasty.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? At a breakfast on the farm, I would share the message, From the Farm to You. It is important to share the message of how farmers care for their cows, including teaching cows’ diets, bedding and the milking process. I would enjoy showing everybody a milk truck to explain the transportation to the factory and the safety processes.

Morrison County

Parents: Jennifer and Kurt Monson; and Brian Meyer Town: Randall

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Little Falls Community High School. I am involved in my schools FFA chapter.

I am currently serving as my chapters president and I was the 2015-2016 ReNicole Meyer, 17 gion II Ofcer At Large.

Dairy Star Sponsor: My Career Development Modern Farm Event (CDE) is ParliaEquipment mentary Procedure. I help Pierz, MN teach second grade reli320-468-2161 gion at my church. I live on a small dairy farm and am currently employed at two different dairy farms: Lundgren Dairy and HCL Farms. At each farm I do basically the same thing. I milk cows at both farms, one in a parlor and one in a tiestall. I also feed calves at each place. I help with picking rocks and other eld work at Lundgrens. At home, I help do chores when needed. I pick rocks in the summer with my family.

We are a smaller farm so we get to pick rocks by hand.

In the future, I plan on owning my own dairy farm of about 50 cows.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love talking to new people and hearing about their stories. Teaching a young child about how a cow is milked is so much fun because I love to see their small faces light up. I also like speaking to others about anything.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I encourage my friends to drink milk instead of drinking pop. I share nutritional facts on social media about dairy to show people how good dairy is for you them.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Community support is a very important thing for farmers to continue their work. Without the consumers, farmers would not have a job or a lifestyle.

Parents: Kevin and Amanda Marshik; Kyle and Tammi Stumpf Town: Hillman Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. My family (step-dad, Kevin, mom, Amanda, sister, Addison and brothers, Joel and Luke) and I own and operate a 55-cow dairy farm in Hillman. We farm our own 560 acres and rent 110 acres. My future plans include attending Winona State University in the fall, double majoring in human resource man-

Taylre Stumpf, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Sunrise Ag Co-op Buckman, MN 1-800-307-5346

Morrison County continued on next page

Morrison County continued

Mower County

agement and business administrations. After college graduation, my goal is to work for an ag-based comParents: John and Barb pany in Minnesota.

Kloeckner What qualities do you possess that make you a Town: Adams good dairy princess? One of my best qualities is my ability to be at ease in situations that are new to me. Tell us about yourself, The opportunities I’ve had in high school, whether the farm you live and/ through BPA, FFA, Student Council or any activity I or work on, and your fuam involved with, have allowed me to become a con- ture plans. I have grown dent young woman who is passionate about what up on the Kloeckner FamI believe in. I am a strong-willed, motivated young ily Farm with my three woman with the ability to adapt to new people and older brothers where we have beef cattle and hogs. situations rather easily.

When I was a freshman in As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- high school, I started my Rachel Jean couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy job on a dairy farm. I startKloeckner, 18 lifestyle? Growing up in a farming community has ed working at Four Way Farms milking the cows.

Dairy Star Sponsor: helped me realize the importance of consuming dairy products. My family has been a large advocate of I am currently a senior at Meyerhofer Bagging Stacyville, IA consuming the dairy products that we produce. In our Southland High School.

Next fall I will be attend507-259-5863 case, milk produced on our farm goes to make cheese; we tend to eat lots of cheese. Whether I am with my ing Winona State Univeryounger siblings or out with friends, I try to look for sity where I will be majoring in nursing. ways that I can incorporate dairy products into my What qualities do you possess that make you daily diet. a good dairy princess? I have lived on a farm my If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what whole life, and I am actively involved with the milk dairy message would you focus on while visiting production on the farm where I work. I enjoy dairy with the public? The message I would hope to focus products, and that will make it easy for me to promote on would be to encourage young adults, especially the different dairy products. Also, speech classes that young women, to consider agriculture as a career. The I have taken have helped me to be a better speaker opportunities for women in the agricultural work- when talking to the public. place/industry are unlimited. However, those opportunities go unseen or unthought of. Women are a nec- As a dairy princess, what role do you play in enessary part of our future dairy industry and they need couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I will be serving healthy dairy products at to know that. different events throughout the year to promote the dairy industry. Along with serving the products, I hope I am able to encourage people to try new products and help them realize the nutritious values that Parents: Gary and Kim are in dairy products.

Zehowski Town: Swanville If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting Tell us about yourself, with the public? I would want to focus on what hapthe farm you live and/or pens at the farm so the consumer can get a better idea work on, and your future of where the dairy products come from. I would also plans. I have two older want to share my own experiences from the farm to brothers and three older help them get a better understanding of where the sisters. My parents have dairy products are coming from. farmed their entire lives.

We milk 55 Holsteins with around 300 acres. I am part of the Little Falls High Parents: Steve and School Target. Also, I am a Amy Zehowski, 18 Darcey Reinartz part of the Little Falls FFA Dairy Star Sponsor: Town: Adams Chapter participating in Swanville Produce the Milk Evaluation CDE. Swanville, MN Tell us about yourself, At the Region II contest, I 320-547-2455 the farm you live and/ placed rst as an individor work on, and your ual, and the team placed fourth making it to state convention. Next year I plan future plans. I enjoy to go to Ridgewater College in Willmar to pursue a reading, golng, playing volleyball, working on career in veterinary technology. the farm, and hanging out What qualities do you possess that make you a with friends. I lived on a good dairy princess? I am very passionate about the dairy farm up until 2014 dairy industry. I have lived on a dairy farm my entire and then we started maklife, and it has denitely changed the way I live. I nd ing the transition to a beef Cassidy Reinartz, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: talking about the industry enjoyable, and like telling herd. I’ve always loved working with the animals.

Northern Country people what farming has to offer. I also enjoy being Coop, Brent Young around little kids because of the large family I come When we milked, we averaged about 50 milking 507-279-9893 from. cows. Next fall, I plan to www.ncountrycoop.com As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- attend the University of couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy Wisconsin-La Crosse for lifestyle? During this year as dairy princess, I will biology in hopes of getting into the physical therapy be able to encourage consumers to participate in the program.

Dairy 3 for Me Pledge. Taking this pledge will allow consumers to gain a healthier lifestyle by consuming What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe I am t for this bethe recommended three servings a day. cause I have a lot of knowledge about the dairy inIf you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dustry and the products. I am also a big supporter of dairy message would you focus on while visiting dairy products because I believe they should be a part with the public? One message I would like to give of everyone’s daily lives. I am always spreading as to visitors is my story behind farming. Telling these much positive news about the industry and its prodstories will give the people insight of what farming ucts because I believe that it’s a very important aspect has to offer, and what needs to get done every day to of our economy. be successful.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I believe everyone should have dairy in their daily diet. As a dairy princess, I would encourage everyone to consume dairy in their everyday diet because I believe that it has many benets. I believe

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Mower County continued

it’s a key part of a healthy lifestyle because it provides key nutrients, such as calcium for your bones.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? At breakfast on the farm, I would focus on how dairy cattle are well cared for and that dairy products are an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle. I believe it’s important for consumers to know where their products come from and how an animal’s health is a farmer’s top priority. I would want consumers to realize that farmers strive to produce the best product possible.

Parents: Troy and Christine Sukalski Town: LeRoy Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on my family’s 400cow dairy farm, Reiland Farms, which is a partnership between my mother and her brother. I own 20 head of Jerseys. Through 4-H and FFA I’ve parStephanie Kay ticipated in dairy judging, Sukalski, 19 Dairy Knowledge Bowl, Dairy Star Sponsor: and dairy shows. CurrentLand O’Lakes ly I am a freshman at UWMelrose, MN River Falls and am an ac320-256-7461 tive member of their dairy club. I hope to become a large animal veterinarian or a geneticist.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I’m very passionate about the dairy industry and love to share my story wherever and whenever I can. I’m also very tall so it’s easy for consumers to spot me.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? It is my job as a dairy princess to encourage the consumption of dairy products. One way I accomplish this is to always have a glass of milk with each meal.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? My family hosted breakfast on the farm this past summer, and the message I focused on was that farmers care for their cows. Since we were on my family’s dairy I wanted to show them all the different ways we care for our cows. I think I accomplished it too.

Murray County Parents: Greg and Madeline Vander Wal Town: Slayton Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Murray County Central in Slayton. My dad runs an 800-cow dairy with two times a day milking.

Until recently I assisted my father with most of the calf chores which includStephanie ed IVing, meds, weaning Vander Wal, 18 and bottle feeding. My Dairy Star Sponsor: day would start at 4:30 in Blue Hilltop Inc. the morning, and then I Lake Wilson, MN got ready for school. On 507-879-3593 days that I did not have activities, I came home to start chores or nish chores. I have been involved in knowledge bowl, speech, drama, and choir. I am also an ambassador Girl Scout. I love art, traveling, reading and the outdoors. My plans are to attend St. Cloud State University and major in art and travel and tourism.

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Page 12 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

Murray County continued Nicollet County continued What qualities do you possess that make you a Parents: Dan and Shelley good dairy princess? I respect the dairy industry and Schugel the importance it played in my life. I also enjoy meet- Town: New Ulm ing new people. So combining the two seems natural.

Tell us about yourself, As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- the farm you live and/ couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy or work on, and your lifestyle? I will be attending public functions to pro- future plans. We milk mote various kinds of dairy products and the health about 30 Holsteins on my grandparent’s farm benets of consuming them. off of Highway 14 going If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what towards Courtland. I live dairy message would you focus on while visiting in New Ulm with my parwith the public? I would encourage people to eat a ents while getting my aswell balanced breakfast, even a small one, using dairy sociates of arts degree at as a good source of protein and calcium and many South Central College in Mankato. Then I will atother nutritional benets all in one ingredient. tend a university where I will pursue the degree in ESL (English as second language) where I hope to teach in high schools over in South Korea.

Nicollet County

Parents: Rolf and Jean Annexstad Town: St. Peter

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at St. Peter High School where I am involved in 4-H, FFA, National Honor Society, soccer, speech, MJHA, track, band, choir, and my church youth group. Next year I will Emily Annexstad, 18 attend the University of Dairy Star Sponsor: Minnesota to major in ag- Bongards’ Creameries ricultural communications Cologne, MN and marketing or animal 952-466-3554 science. I live on my family’s dairy farm. We milk 200 Holstein cows and farm 500 acres. My main responsibilities include milking cows and feeding and bedding youngstock.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am comfortable speaking in front of people, as I have been in speech throughout high school and have given numerous 4-H livestock demonstrations. I feel that I can use my speaking skills to help share the story of Minnesota’s dairy farms and remind people of how nutritious dairy products are.

I am friendly and always smiling, which helps make me approachable for people with questions about dairy wherever I am.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I think that as a dairy princess I can always be encouraging people to make sure that they are consuming dairy as a healthy part of their diet. As a high school athlete and dairy princess, I encourage my teammates and friends to refuel with chocolate milk or other dairy products after exercise. Additionally, I can tell people with special dietary needs about options in the dairy aisle for them, such as lactose-free milk.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on how dairy farmers care for their cows on a daily basis. I would explain how farmers spend time caring for animals of all ages on their farms. Since the Breakfast on the Farm is often on a warm summer day, I would focus on the steps that farmers take to make sure their cows stay cool in warm weather, such as having fans or even sprinkler systems in the barn.

Princess F act

Pope County hosts a reception for their dairy princesses after the dairy show at the county fair to allow producers to interact with the girls while enjoying cheese and crackers.

s:

Nobles County continued If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Since I would be talking about this at a breakfast on the farm, I would talk about all of the different things you can make for breakfast that include a dairy ingredient. And I would also inform them on how they could make a satisfying breakfast meal with plenty of variety that would include the three servings of dairy you need in a day.

Olmsted County Stacey Schugel, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: AMPI New Ulm Division 507-354-8295 www.ampi.com

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? This is actually my sixth and nal year as a dairy princess. I had a lot of experience over the years talking to retired dairy farmers about how they used to run their farm, going on my local radio station and promoting our upcoming events where they could come and meet us and ask any questions that they have, and also going to the annual Princess Kay judging event.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? A role that I play as a dairy princess is to show consumers how benecial dairy products are in their lives. I always recommend them to have three servings three of dairy products everyday whether its cheese in their omelet to fresh milk in their coffee.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would tell them how important it is that farmers take care of their cows. During the tour on the farm, I would explain to them that farmers treat their cows with so much respect and love as they would for their family.

Nobles County

Parents: Bryan Voss and Becky Bosma Town: Worthington

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a small farm outside of Bigelow, but I moved into town when I was nine years old. I may not live on a farm anymore, but I am frequently out at Ocheda Dairy, where my Justyce Voss, 20 father works, doing whatDairy Star Sponsor: ever I can to help out. I Jaycox Implement Inc. graduated last May from Worthington, MN Minnesota West Commu507-376-3147 nity and Technical College with an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts. I am not currently attending school, but in the future I hope to return to further my education.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe I have an outgoing personality which makes it easy to connect with people and talk with them about the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Being a county dairy princess has allowed me to get out into the public and talk with consumers about the dairy industry and all of the things needed in order to have a healthy diet from dairy products. A lot of people don’t know that three servings of dairy products a day are needed in order for you to be the healthiest form of yourself, and being a dairy princess has helped me get that message across to people. I can’t thank my county and my fellow dairy farmers enough for that opportunity.

Parents: Tom and Penny Berg Town: Pine Island Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I currently live and work on our 200-cow family dairy farm. I work as a full-time employee alongside of both my parents and one brother, we also have three part time employees. After graduKalley Berg, 20 ating from Pine Island Dairy Star Sponsor: High School, I attended Land O’Lakes Iowa Lake College where Melrose, MN I graduated as a certied 320-256-7461 welder and honor student from their program. My future plans are to nd a part time welding job while balancing the farm on the side.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? To be a good dairy princess, you have to possess many different qualities. I am outgoing, hard working, and a good listener. Plus, I have the knowledge and desire to promote the dairy industry. I have gained these qualities by working full-time on my family farm and by making appearances at public events educating adults and children about the goodness of dairy.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? To promote dairy consumption, dairy princesses such as myself, have teamed up with organizations like Fuel Up to Play 60 and Milk Life. These organizations request 60 minutes of physical activity a day and three servings of dairy products such as milk, cheese, or yogurt to give adults and children a wellbalanced diet. Also, I’ve visited daycares and schools giving presentations on the nutritional value of dairy products and the good they do for the body.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would portray the message of how dairy farmers ensure the highest level of care for their animals so that in return they can produce the highest quality product for you.

Parents: Paul and Susan Kyllo Town: Byron Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I live and work with my parents and two of my sisters on a 95-cow dairy. I am currently a full time student at Rochester Community and Technical College where I am majoring in law enforcement and environmental science. I appreciate the opportunity I have to be involved with my family’s farm as I go to school. My future goal is to become a conservation ofcer with Minnesota DNR.

Annette Kyllo, 23 Dairy Star Sponsor: Wingert Sales & Service Plainview, MN 507-534-4386

Olmsted County continued on next page

Olmsted County continued What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am self-motivated, care about people, and I believe dairy products are key to people achieving and maintaining good health. I have always been heavily involved in our farm, so I can use my rsthand knowledge and experience when talking with people. I also have experience in public education. I worked for the DNR teaching boaters about aquatic invasive species and I have spent 20 weeks teaching Vacation Bible School to grades 3-4.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? The rst role is leading by example. People watch what you do even more than they listen to what you say. The next role is being an available resource for people as well as being proactive in talking with them. Many people have no idea of all the health benets of dairy foods. Some people are unaware that even if they are lactose intolerant, there are still ways they can implement dairy into their diets.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Breakfast on the farm is a unique opportunity for people to come out and experience a farm rsthand. As such, I think an especially important message to focus on is animal care and the measures farmers take to ensure their cows are healthy and well cared for.

Pine County Parents: Mike and Shelly Peterson Town: Willow River Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a senior at Willow River High School. Next fall, I will attend Ridgewater College for GPS/GIS technology for agriculture. I am very fortunate to live and work on our family-owned farm. We milk approximately 300 Holsteins in a double-8 parlor. We also grow most of our own crops. I help with calf care, milking, feeding, eldwork and harvesting.

Pope County Parents: Darrell and Molly Oeltjen Town: Villard Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up helping my grandparents with chores and have loved cows since I was young. I work on my uncles’ farm, Oeltjen Dairy. We milk 70 registered Holsteins in a tiestall barn. I have not chosen a major yet, but I plan to attend the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth this fall.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Fluegge’s Ag Mora, MN 320-679-2981

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess knowledge of the dairy industry and how it works. I have hands on experience. I am also very passionate about the industry, which drives me to pass my knowledge onto others.

I strive to take my real experiences and communicate them to others in a way they will understand.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Dairy princesses are very important in encouraging and educating the importance of dairy products in a healthy diet and lifestyle. As a dairy princess, I play the role of helping children and adults understand that dairy products are excellent sources of calcium, vitamins and minerals that allow them to grow and stay strong. I believe young people are the best way to promote products to other young people and develop healthy habits.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Aside from how dairy is an important part of a balanced diet, I would also focus on dairy farms also. It is very important that the consumers know they are getting a safe, humanely raised product. I would explain the process a cow goes through.

Many dairy farmers spend more time balancing their cows’ diets than their own. I want people to know our livestock is well taken care of and not just an animal in the barn.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? The importance of a good breakfast to start your day and how having dairy products with it can strengthen your bone health as well.

Parents: Mark and Deb Trcka Town: Montgomery

Ellen Oeltjen, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Nelson Creamery Association Nelson, MN 320-762-0115

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Some qualities that make me a good dairy princess are my passion for the dairy industry and my background in it. I also possess public speaking skills from being involved in 4-H that will help me to be a good dairy princess.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I am uniquely positioned between producers and consumers, with the benet of being in the public eye. This allows me to promote and inform consumers of the variety of dairy products available and the health benets that come along with them.

Redwood County Parents: Westen Hotzler and Angela Taylor Town: Walnut Grove Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I will graduate from Westbrook-Walnut Grove High School in May. I plan to attend Southwest Minnesota State University next year. I plan to major in music education. In school, I am involved in FFA, track, cheerleading, Minnesota Honor Society and theater. I have been working on Maas’ Farm since November of 2015.

I enjoy working with the cows and the people.

Redwood County continued

Rice County

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on education. There are so many consumers that know very little about the dairy industry and don’t understand the process of how their products are produced. Increasing education in this area will benet both consumers and producers, along with creating a more positive image of the industry in society.

Alli Peterson, 18

Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016 • Page 13

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am very involved with my school and community. I am a three sport athlete at Tri-City United High School in Montgomery. I play volleyball, basketball, and softball. I am in many clubs at school Emilie Trcka, 19 as well, I am in FFA, NaDairy Star Sponsor: tional Honors Society, Dairyland Equipment Art Team, W.E. Team Services Inc. (World Empowerment), Plainview, MN and American Sign Lan507-534-3161 guage Club. These school activities keep me very busy. My family and I live on a 90-cow dairy farm near Montgomery. We raise crops and milk Holstein cows on our farm. We all work very hard. My main job on the farm is taking care of and feeding the baby calves. I also feed the barn cows and help with other farm chores that need to be done. My next step after high school is to attend South Dakota State University in Brookings, this coming fall. I plan on majoring in nursing but I still want the farm to be a part of my life.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I feel that I am very friendly, caring, hardworking, responsible, and honest in all that I do. I love talking to people and sharing what I know and love about the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am very excited to promote the dairy industry as a 2016 Rice County Dairy Princess. I want to be able to talk to younger children and teach them about the dairy industry. I would like to help educate our society today about how important dairy farmers are and what they do for us.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on the importance in having dairy products in a person’s diet. Milk is an important part of a healthy diet. Milk, white or avored, has nine essential nutrients; including potassium, calcium, and vitamin D. I would talk about how important dairy products are and why they are good.

Samantha Hotzler, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Maas Dairy Farm Walnut Grove, MN 507-747-2519

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess qualities of leadership that make me a good dairy princess. In school, I have been cheer captain for three straight years, helping me with my leadership skills.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I believe that eating and drinking dairy products are very important to live a healthy lifestyle.

I usually always have a glass of milk every morning, otherwise I will have a smoothie. I believe that if you have dairy products in your diet, you will increase your bone strength.

Rock County

Parents: Cal and Char Lubben Town: Edgerton Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a junior at Southwest Minnesota Christian High School.

For extracurricular activities I am in band, choir, Bel Canto, (a small allgirl singing group) Players (an improve group), the school play and cheerleading. I also work at the rest home in town along with working on my parent’s farm. On our farm we milk 300 cows in a double-12 parlor twice a

Calissa Lubben, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Equipment Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

Rock County continued on next page

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Scott County continued

Scott County continued

day. We have about 50 dry cows, 300 replacement heifers, and about 100 calves. For my future plans, I would either like to be a vet tech or a dental hygienist but I haven’t decided.

Parents: Mark and Connie Kreuser Town: Jordan

dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on the importance of having three dairy products a day. Dairy products are full of calcium, vitamin A and D, along with many other important nutrients.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Some qualities that I possess that make me a good dairy princess is that I have good leadership skills and I will proudly support all of my fellow dairy farmers. I am also an approachable and caring person with a good attitude, and I try to make the best out of every situation. Also, I am a hardworking 17 year-old who isn’t afraid to go the extra mile for others.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Being dairy princess, dairy consumption is a big deal to me. Recently, I did a speech about this in Speech class, and afterwards, I handed out cheese sticks to my class and encouraged them once more to eat dairy. Some other ways that I encourage dairy consumption is that during parades I will throw out cheese sticks instead of candy. At the county fair we serve ice cream out of a little red barn. Also, during some events in the county we will hand out milk for a supper or a dinner.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? It is always said, “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day” this is true, but eating dairy along with it can make that meal time even more delicious. I would focus on, since it is a meal time, how eating dairy is more benecial. For example, I would tell them that one cup of milk has the same amount of calcium as four cups of broccoli.

Scott County Parents: Tim and Sandy Breeggemann Town: Shakopee Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am the youngest of ve kids and was born and raised in Shakopee. I chose to expand my schooling and study at Mankato State University. Although I am busy at college, I still nd time to come home on the weekends and work at a local nursing home and still be active on the family farm. After I graduate, I hope to earn a degree in dental hygiene.

Tessa Breeggemann, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Lano Equipment Inc. of Shakopee Shakopee, MN 952-445-6310

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Some qualities I possess that make me a good dairy princess include a strong work ethic I have and put forth in everything I do, the ability to be proactive and manifest leadership and the respect I have not only for myself but for others.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I strongly encourage people to have chocolate milk after workouts. It is very good for post exercise recovery. Also, I feel kids should have three servings of dairy a day in order to strengthen their growing bones.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would explain to consumers that you still need dairy to have a healthy diet, and that cutting it out of your everyday life is not benecial within any aspects of health. Also, I would share that having dairy for breakfast is always a good way to start your day.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a student that is currently studying veterinary technology at Argosy University in the Twin Cities (AUTC). Before attending AUTC, I worked at home on the farm. I enjoy milking the Christina Kreuser, 20 cows, feeding the calves, Dairy Star Sponsor: and helping with the dai- Prairie Farm Supply ly chores. I like to spend Belle Plaine, MN time with my dad and the 952-873-4234 animals on the farm. I plan on graduating from Argosy University in the fall of 2017 with my associate’s degree in veterinary technology.

Stearns County Parents: Roger and Lisa Hemmesch Town: Paynesville Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I’m currently nishing my senior year at Paynesville Area High School. I am involved in choir, National Honor Society, and softball. I live and work on our family farm north of Paynesville.

We milk 53 Holsteins. In the fall, I will be attending St. Cloud State University.

I plan to major in radiologic technology.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? There are so many amazing Brianna Hemmesch, qualities of being a good dairy princess. Being able to promote the dairy industry in a positive matter is 18 important because the industry provides so much for Dairy Star Sponsor: our community. I believe that I am passionate about Hartung Sales & my lifestyle, I am a hard working person and I am Service able to promote and educate the community about the Freeport, MN dairy industry.

What qualities do you 320-836-2697 possess that make you a As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- good dairy princess? A couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy few of the qualities I possess that make me a good lifestyle? I encourage people to incorporate dairy dairy princess include: being friendly, outgoing, and products into their healthy lifestyle because these easy to talk to. All of these qualities help me to proproducts are benecial to the human body. Not only mote dairy. is it necessary for bone growth, but it also has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve heart As a dairy princess, what role do you play in enhealth. It is also very rich with vitamin D and protein, couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy which helps your body by staying healthy with the lifestyle? As a dairy princess, it is my job to inform help of nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus. people of the benets of dairy, such as there are nine essential nutrients in one eight ounce glass of milk.

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what with the public? The messages I would focus on dairy message would you focus on while visiting while visiting with the public are dairy quality and with the public? Dairy foods are wholesome, nunutritional benets of dairy. Focus on dairy quality tritious, and good tasting. Dairy foods are nutrient is important because it must be a safe product that is packed and there are many different ways to get three wholesome and antibiotic free. Nutrition ties into this servings a day. by consuming a safe product that is benecial to your health while providing health benets.

Parents: Bernie and Diane Herkenhoff Town: St. Rosa Parents: Rick and Ann Stocker Town: Jordan Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities where I am pursuing a degree in communications. I live on my family’s dairy farm where my dad is the fth generation farmer.

We milk about 80 cows in our stanchion barn, mainly Holsteins with some crossbreds.

Emily Stocker, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Ross Equipment Lonsdale, MN 507-339-1812

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I’m a people person, I love to talk to people about the dairy industry in any way, whether it is with my group of friends, answering consumers’ questions, or talking to a large crowd.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I always encourage my friends to eat dairy products to stay healthy at school. One example of how I do this is after working out, I always try to have them join me in drinking chocolate milk, which contains the sugar and protein needed for your body to recover after a workout.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. My family and I farm outside of St. Rosa, milking 130 registered Holstein cows. I enjoy helping my family do numerous chores on the farm including feeding calves, milking and feeding cows. My future plans are to attend North Dakota State University next fall with a major in nance and a minor in ag business.

Kayla Herkenhoff, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Worms Lumber & Ready Mix Inc. New Munich, MN 320-256-4638 St. Rosa Lumber Inc. 888-276-1751

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? There are many qualities that I believe help me as a dairy princess. One is my ability to talk to people. I am very comfortable when talking to people about what I love and believe in. Also, another is my passion for the dairy industry. I have grown up inside the dairy industry and I have a great understanding and love for all farmers and the animals that provide us with high quality and wholesome dairy foods.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is crucial as a dairy princess to encourage others to consume dairy foods. I am able to show others simple ways to incorporate dairy into their diet every day. It is especially fun to encourage Stearns County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016 • Page 15

Stearns County continued

Stearns County continued

children to consume dairy foods because they are at which makes me an engaging speaker. As a dairy such an important age. princess, I not only receive the opportunity to teach, but I have the opportunity to learn. I am currently a If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what secretary and a president in other organizations, theredairy message would you focus on while visiting fore I know how to communicate well. with the public? The one message I would focus on would be dairy farmers are proud of what they do. As a dairy princess, what role do you play in enThis is important because the entire reason farmers do couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy what they do is because they are proud of it and love lifestyle? While being a dairy princess, my health is their job. of great importance. I engage in Fuel Up to Play 60, which is a program that encourages healthy eating along with 60 minutes of exercise a day. Dairy foods are a great way to have a balanced and healthy diet Parents: Vernon and because they have nine essential nutrients that aid in Joann Mehr building and maintaining strong muscles and bones.

Town: Farming If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what Tell us about yourself, dairy message would you focus on while visiting the farm you live and/ with the public? Agriculture is the basis of nearly all or work on, and your commodities. Our support for dairy farmers is of great future plans. I grew up signicance because many of the foods we consume with three older siblings come from a dairy farm. At breakfast on the farm, I on a 208-acre dairy farm, would strive to inform the public on the importance where we milk about 60 of agriculture, give the dairy farmers our support, and cows. On the farm I enjoy ensure that the dairy farmers receive our thanks. four-wheeling and playing with my black lab.

In my free time I enjoy Roseann Mehr, 18 Parents: Scott and Janell dancing on the weekends, Dairy Star Sponsor: Westerman especially swing dancing Minnesota National Town: Sauk Centre and spending time with Bank my nieces and nephews. I Sauk Centre, MN Tell us about yourself, plan to attend Ridgewater 320-352-5211 the farm you live and/ College in Willmar, for something in the medical eld after graduating from or work on, and your future plans. My family Albany High School this May. and I farm 200 acres, near What qualities do you possess that make you a Sauk Centre. We milk 38 good dairy princess? I have strong leadership and cows in a tiestall barn and people skills. I have a positive attitude and I enjoy raise our own heifers and working with people. I am always learning more steers. I have been helpabout the dairy industry, so what better way to spread ing in the barn as long as I my knowledge than as a Stearns County Dairy Prin- can remember, and started Anna Westerman, milking cows when I was 20 cess. nine years old. I also take Dairy Star Sponsor: As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- care of the calves, update Young’s Veterinary couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy cow and breeding records, Services lifestyle? My job is to inform dairy consumers about and anything else that perBelgrade, MN the health benets of dairy and serving as their con- tains to farming. My sister nection to the farm. I am then able to show and teach and I have started our own them about where their food comes from and why it’s herds of various breeds and I enjoy showing them in important for families to enjoy these dairy foods three 4-H. I graduated from Western Indianhead Technical times each day. I am lucky to have the opportunity to College for dairy herd management in 2015 and my do this through social media, farm visits, classroom future plans are to continue in farming, with either working on the home farm or owning my own small presentations, and other community events. dairy.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting What qualities do you possess that make you a with the public? The dairy message I use most and good dairy princess? A farmer has many qualities feel is helpful for breakfast on the farm is, dairy foods and skills people don’t think about when they think of are wholesome, nutritious, and good tasting. This is a farmer including a carpenter, teacher, mechanic, and because it’s so important for the consumers to know a businessman. I am proud to be called a farmer and I the benets of the dairy foods they are choosing for can use these skills as a dairy princess. I get to share their families. The choices in dairy are nearly limit- my farming experiences, tell stories about our farm, less. Everything from milk, and cheese, to yogurt and and share pictures or bring dairy animals to events if possible. I also possess great organizational skills, ice cream and many others in between. love working with children, and I can take the initiative to get things accomplished.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I especially promote dairy consumption when I visit schools. If a child learns a healthy lifestyle when they are young, it will inuence their decisions as they grow older. I also set a good example in what I eat and drink. I encourage and recommend my favorite drink of chocolate milk at meals, as a snack, or after a workout. It has great taste with nine important nutrients that is low in calories and has the perfect ratio of protein to carbohydrates, making it easy to get the nutrients our bodies need.

Parents: Ryan and Sheri Pratt Town: Albany Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. My family and I live on a 60-cow dairy farm south of Albany where we milk in a double-3 parlor. We farm 200 acres of corn, oats, and alfalfa. A few of my absolute favorite jobs on the farm include feeding calves and raking hay.

This fall, I plan to attend Augustana University in Sioux Falls, S.D. My intended major is history.

Emily Pratt, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: First District Association Litcheld, MN 320-693-3236

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a hardworking, passionate, and understanding leader. I am eager to educate

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? The dairy message I would focus on is the care and treatment of our animals. As a farmer myself, we are committed to providing high quality milk which begins with taking good care of our cows.

It includes a nutritious diet, medical care, and healthy living conditions that starts as a calf and leads to a healthy dairy cow. Breakfast on the farm is the perfect way to show the public our dedication and hard work, all while enjoying a healthy breakfast with us and seeing where their food comes from.

Stearns County continued Parents: Ute Zeis and Fred Zeis Town: Holdingford Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a farm with 68 Holsteins and we have all John Deere tractors. I help with milking, feeding cows, taking care of the calves and the heifers, and when I can, I help out in the elds.

Anna Zeis, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor:

What qualities do you First District possess that make you Association a good dairy princess?

Litcheld, MN Some qualities that make 320-693-3236 me a good dairy princess Holdingford Feed Mill is that I know a lot about 320-333-2571 cows and dairy farming because I’m in 4-H, where I show dairy, participate in dairy knowledge bowl, am a member of the FFA dairy judging team, and I learn a lot from living on the farm.

Because I am in all of these activities, I have a lot of good social skills and love being around people and making new friends.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? The role I play is sharing all the benets of having dairy products in your everyday diet. Dairy products are wholesome, nutritious, and best of all, delicious.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would talk about all of the great successes we, the dairy community, has accomplished.

I also would like to share with the public what a great impact the dairy community makes on the rest of the community.

Steele County Parents: Lee and Jane Crawford Town: Owatonna Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live in town so we lease from a couple area dairy families, Kaspers and Nelsons. Two years ago, I joined 4-H and started showing dairy at the fair. During high school, I have been involved in 4-H, adapted oor hockey, Special Olympics swimming, Special Olympics track and Teen Club. After graduation in June, I plan to attend the extended high school program for 19-21 year olds and hope to attend college after that.

Elizabeth Crawford, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Laura Seljan Photography Kasson, MN 507-250-2217

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love dairy calves and cows. I have had success in the showring exhibiting multiple breeds such as Jersey, Guernsey, Holstein and Milking Shorthorn. I am honest and a hard worker. People tell me I am a positive person with a kind heart and a good role model for other students with autism.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is talking to friends, family and other people about yummy dairy products. I would encourage my teammates to drink chocolate milk as the best recovery drink after working out, team practices and games.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Dairy farmers love their animals and they take really good care of their entire dairy herd.

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Page 16 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

Steele County continued

Steele County continued

Parents: Todd and Dianne Edel Town: Owatonna

Parents: Michele Ulen and Dean Jirousek Town: Ellendale

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am going into my senior year at the University Of Minnesota, Mankato. I have worked at Kasper Dairy in Owatonna for almost three years during summers and winter and spring breaks. Gabriell Ann Edel, I try to go out and work 21 as much as I can because Dairy Star Sponsor: I have truly fallen in love Werner Implement with the lifestyle. Peter Vermillion, MN and Karen Kasper and 651-437-9738 their daughter Stephanie are the ones who have taught me everything I know. From little tips which help me do chores to the responsibilities that go in to running a dairy operation, I have learned so much and the Kaspers are to thank for that. Peter and Karen have taken time out of many days to teach me the duties and responsibilities at hand. They have done a wonderful job of showing me the reasons behind doing certain things. I’ll always be forever grateful for the Kasper family. When I graduate in May of 2017, I will have a degree in leisure planning and management and a degree in non-prot leadership from the Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services Department.

Because of my passion for agriculture, my dream job is to plan camps and programs with kids and animals.

I am excited to announce that I have recently accepted a job offer with Farm America in Waseca. I will be their event planner for all their agriculture-based events. Farther down the road, I see my self married with kids on a small hobby farm somewhere in Steele County. I would like to see myself working in an executive director position doing something with agriculture and children.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a small farm just outside of Owatonna. I am the fth generation on a familyowned and operated dairy.

We raise Guernseys and Red White Holsteins. I am a sophomore at the Col- Taylor Jirousek, 19 lege of St. Scholastica in Dairy Star Sponsor: Duluth, majoring in psy- Harland’s Tire and chology. I intend to go on Auto of Owatonna to grad school for occupaOwatonna, MN tional therapy. My ideal 507-451-3084 job would be working with children who have a disability or have just had a life changing loss or surgery.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My passion comes from working with kids.

I think I play a huge role when getting kids to know the true benets of consuming dairy. I like to think of myself as a positive role model for these kids. I want to take the topic of dairy consumption and make it fun, something the kids will remember. Focusing on an overall healthy lifestyle and showing the kids how that can be achieved through consuming dairy three times a day is what I strive to do. Also I want to make children aware that there are a lot of different ways to consume dairy, not just drinking milk.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I have grown up on a farm my entire life. We have a family dairy farm at my grandparents’ place where we milk about 45 Holsteins in a stanchion barn. It has been my job since I was little to be in Kalyn Jean Naatz, charge of bottle-feeding, 18 or pale-feeding the calves Dairy Star Sponsor: we have. Growing up on IBA Dairy Supply a dairy farm has taught Brandon Balzer & me how to handle issues Rusty Paulson when they come up, to 507-451-7218 stay calm in bad situations and the true meaning of hard work and dedication you have to have. I will be attending South Dakota State University in the fall to major in animal science.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a lot of passion for the dairy industry. It has been a big part of my life since I was born. I love meeting people and learning about other farms and families.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am a strong believer in drinking milk and consuming other dairy products each and every day.

Farm families work hard each day to provide the public with healthy and nutritious products.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on how much work farm families put into their farms and their cows each day and ensure the public that we treat our animals humanely, and most importantly, how we take so much pride in our farms and the livestock. I have been lucky What qualities do you possess that make you a to have grown up on a small family farm because each good dairy princess? I like a challenge. Growing up day our family has worked together to provide the in town I never would have pictured myself working public with the best quality milk we could. early mornings and late nights on a farm. The livestock bug bit me and I fell in love with dairy cows and the dairy industry really fast. I have decided to chase that love and that passion I feel for this great industry Parents: Doug and Holli and run for dairy princess to better my knowledge and Naatz Town: Blooming Prairie to meet new people.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I think breakfast on the farm is a good time to show the public why I want to represent Steele County and the dairy industry. I can see myself chatting with the public and answering any questions they have. For the overall message, I would like to share with the public the importance of the dairy industry and why people should not take it for granted.

Princess

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Stearns County holds a training event for the girls crowned dairy princesses to prepare them for attending the Dairy Princess Promotion and Leadership Event in May.

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What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? When I think about my personal qualities, I think about leadership. I think it starts with the realization of wanting to lead someone or something, and to take charge and teach someone in the process of leading a group. During my years of 4-H and FFA, I have had some of the very best leadership training and experiences. I believe leadership is the main focus in any group or event that you are involved in. We need people who are going to want to stand up for what they believe in, and also step up and lead so we can make a positive inuence on our peers in the dairy industry, especially the youth. I also believe I am an approachable, talkative person and I am always up for helping someone within the dairy industry.

Steele County continued As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Milk and dairy products are a convenient source of calcium for many people. They are also a good source of protein and are fortied with vitamins D and A. Beyond building stronger bones, three daily servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy foods improve overall diet quality and reduce the risk of various chronic diseases. Along with getting calcium and building stronger bones; you also get to enjoy all types of tasty ice cream, and cheeses.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? My message would be that the cows we milk and raise are very well cared for. Dairy farmers love their cows. Farmers won’t do anything that jeopardizes their cows’ health. Dairy farm families spend a great deal of time and money nding new ways to make their cows comfortable and happy so they will produce the most milk possible, and they do that by having comfortable bedding, hoof manicures, vaccines for preventable diseases, barns that keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter and regular visits from veterinarians. Many of our dairy farmers say that their dairy cows are fed and treated like a member of the family. This ensures cow comfort and happiness, and gives them what they need to produce the highest quality milk possible.

Stevens County Parents: Ron and Julie Golombiecki Town: Morris Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I’ve grown up on a 60-cow dairy.

We are putting in a parlor this spring. All of the cattle are housed on bedded packs, and we raise all of our own young stock.

We plan to expand as my Elizabeth brother and I come back Golombiecki, 19 to farm with my father.

Dairy Star Sponsor: This summer, I have the Riverview, LLP opportunity to internship Morris, MN at a 6,000-cow dairy, West www.riverviewllp.com River Dairy, and work in multiple areas.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe I’m very easy to talk to, which makes starting a conversation about dairy easy with anyone.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is to inform people of all the different kinds of dairy products that are a part of a healthy lifestyle from milk to cheese and yogurt, even ice cream. Milk is one of the most economical ways to get a product packed full of nutrition. Although, everything is healthy in moderation and has its own benets.

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? There are many different sizes of farms out there and they all may do things a little differently, but they are all doing the best that they can to care for the cows and produce a nutritious product.

It takes all kinds of dairies to bring you your favorite dairy treats.

Princess

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Mower County has 150 to 200 community members attend their annual dairy princess coronation banquet each year.

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Todd County Parents: Shawn and Debbie Hollermann Town: Burtrum Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 400-cow Holstein dairy farm. I work as a CNA at Long Prairie Centra Care Nursing home. I plan to return to my family’s farm full time after college. I will be attending Ridgewater in Willmar as a fulltime dairy management student in the fall. I participate in many activities such as speech, volleyball, 4-H and theater.

Megan Hollermann, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: First District Association Litcheld, MN 320-693-3236

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have many qualities that make me a good dairy princess. I stand side-by-side with farmers day in and day out. I hear their concerns and what they want the public to hear and know about what they are doing. I have attended many conferences and conventions to help me become more knowledgeable and dependable to others who don’t know a lot about the industry. I also have been a dairy ambassador for three years before I was crowned a dairy princess.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I visit many schools around the Todd County area and we talk about how milk is healthy. We do other fun actives to incorporate milk into their diet such as handing out string cheese or making homemade ice cream with them. I also work with the rst graders at my school, and I encourage all of them everyday to nish up their milk or take the cheese even if they don’t want it on their burger.

Todd County continued ers about farm life and delicious dairy products they should have everyday and attend parades to promote the dairy industry while handing out cheese sticks to spread joy. Another role I partake in is to lead by example wherever I am, because people watch what you do more than they listen to what you say.

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? When helping out on Breakfast on the Farm, I like to focus my message how farmers take really good care of their farm and cows. With the knowledge of farmers taking superb care of the cows and the land, consumers can be condent about grabbing a nutritious container of milk from the store and know that all their favorite dairy products come from farms with hard working, dedicated farmers.

Parents: Alan and Vicki Paskewitz Town: Browerville Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I grew up showing dairy cattle from my uncle’s farm, Solid Rock Dairy. My rst calf, Madison, established my passion for cattle and the dairy industry. I continue to show and am proud Rebekka Paskewitz, to have been named Se18 nior Champion Showman Dairy Star Sponsor: and show the Champion Pro-Ag Farmer’s Co-op Holstein, Crossbred, and Browerville, MN Guernsey of the Todd 320-594-2711 County Fair. I began working at Solid Rock Dairy the summer of my freshman year. Solid Rock Dairy milks 240 cows and cares for 250 to 350 calves annually. My responsibilities include feeding calves and caring for their health and environment. I take pride in raising the next generation of milk producers on the farm. My family was honored to host Todd County Breakfast on the Farm two years ago. The pride we have for the dairy industry truly shined as we informed consumers and other producers of our daily operations and dedication to producing high quality milk.

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Breakfast on the farm is a great way to show our consumers how we are treating our animals and how well they are being taken care of.

That is the biggest thing our consumers want to know.

They want to know that our animals our taken care of, that they are getting healthy rations of food, and that they are being kept in a cleanly environment.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My love for agriculture has given me unique opportunities to serve the industry and grow in my knowledge and speaking abilities. I Parents: Larry and Janice feel that I am a strong advocate for the dairy industry Mellgren because of the experience I have had and the knowlTown: Long Prairie edge I have gained. My ability to relate to consumers and producers alike helps me close the gap from farm Tell us about yourself, to fork, which is a popular topic in agriculture. One the farm you live and/or unique thing I appreciate about the dairy industry is work on, and your future how family oriented each farmer is. My grandfather plans. I am the youngest was a dairy farmer while being a full-time math teachof six in my family and a er. Two of my uncles continue to farm and it is deproud aunt to seven nieces nitely a family affair. I think it adds a level of pride to and four nephews. I live our job when our entire family is involved. on a farm where we milk 40 Holsteins and raise our As a dairy princess, what role do you play in enown livestock and crops. couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy My favorite job on the Elizabeth Mellgren, lifestyle? I’ve always been the person in my family to farm is getting to feed 19 drink three glasses of milk a day and still want more. the calves. I am attending Dairy Star Sponsor: Even now, as I lead a busy lifestyle in FFA, 4-H and Gustavus Adolphus ColFirst District multiple music groups, I make time to balance my lege in St. Peter, Minn., Association diet. Dairy still plays an important part of that diet. and plan on pursuing peLitcheld, MN diatric nursing.

320-693-3236 If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am with the public? Farmers focus on caring for their very down to earth, friendly and caring. I also love cows just like they would care for their family. From interacting with everyone, especially kids, and telling experience, I can say that my cows are an important them about the dairy industry and where the products piece of my life. We also care about what goes into our cattle. Our families drink the same milk and eat they love come from. the cheese that you do. Because we want only the best, As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- our cows have a specialized nutrition program and are couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy monitored closely with their health and wellness. Aflifestyle? My role as a dairy princess is to help educate ter all, happy cows produce better quality milk. and inform everyone I meet about dairy goodness. To do this, I attend many different events like Breakfast on the Farm, help out in the malt wagon during town festivals, go to school visits to talk with third grad-

Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016 • Page 17

Wabasha County Parents: Jary and Celene Holst Town: Kellogg

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

Next fall, I will be attending the University of Wisconsin – River Falls, where I will be majoring in dairy science. After colAbigail Holst, 18 lege, I plan to have a job Dairy Star Sponsor: in the dairy industry. My Young Milk Transport family’s dairy farm, Holst Plainview, MN Farms, is a small dairy farm north of Plainview.

My parents, brothers, sisters and I work hard each day to produce dairy products that consumers enjoy. My hobbies include FFA, 4-H and being with my friends and family.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? A dairy princess has many great qualities. I have always been told that I have a warm smile. Having a warm smile will intrigue people to ask me questions about the dairy industry and feel comfortable while questions are being answered.

Another great trait I have is being a happy, energetic person. I want to excite consumers about the dairy industry. Having qualities like this makes for a great dairy princess.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I want to inform consumers about the dairy industry and to be able to share my knowledge about dairy, but in an interesting way.

That is why I encourage everyone to attend Wabasha County’s family night on the farm this June at my family’s farm.

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would like to educate the public about the daily life of a farmer. I would also like to educate them on how the milk leaves the farm, and process it goes through before it ends up in your bowl of cereal.

Parents: Jary and Celene Holst Town: Kellogg Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. Currently, I am nishing my senior year at Plainview Elgin Millville High School. After graduation, it is my goal to become a cosmetologist.

My family’s farm, Holst Farms, is a small family Natalie Holst, 18 farm located in Kellogg.

Dairy Star Sponsor: My parents, two brothers, Plainview Milk and three sisters all work Products on the farm together. We Plainview, MN all take turns doing the 800-356-5606 milking, feeding calves and harvesting the crops.

We all work hard to provide healthy, nutritious milk for people to enjoy. My hobbies include 4-H, four wheeling, snowmobiling and hanging out with my friends.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Being a dairy princess for Wabasha County is a huge honor. Growing up in a dairy community, I am condent when talking to dairy farmers. Making conversation and being energetic is a strong capability of mine because I am able to make the conversations exciting and get people interested in what I would like them to hear.

Wabasha County continued on next page

Page 18 • Dairy Star • Monday, May 9, 2016

Wabasha County continued

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Being selected as a dairy princess, I want to encourage people to eat their three servings of dairy a day – milk, cheese and yogurt. Drinking milk helps keep teeth nice and white and bones strong. Milk is a good source of protein, too. After a sporting event, I would encourage people to go home and grab a glass of milk or eat yogurt to refuel their energy.

Wadena County continued

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I play a key role in promoting the wholesome, nutritious products of the dairy industry through spreading the word of the essential nutrients that are in dairy related products. I also sell malts every year at our annual Wadena County Fair. This is a great way to spread dairy goodness.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would encourage them to drink milk. Support the local dairy farmers by eating and drinking dairy products. All the milk, cheese and yogurt comes from dairy cows. Drinking milk will keep them strong and healthy. When they are thirsty, they can grab a glass of chocolate milk and think of all the dairy farmers they are supporting.

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would steer people’s focus on how wholesome, nutritious and good tasting dairy products are. I would stress that just one glass of milk a day would provide you with an essential amount of nutrients. Also, many breakfast meals, the most important meal of the day, include dairy products. A few examples of this would be oatmeal made with milk, cereal, yogurt, etc.

Wadena County

Waseca County

Parents: Dan and Tanya Malone Town: Wadena

Parents: Mitch and Amy Kruger Town: New Richland

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I was born and raised on a farm and working since I can remember. I help on our farm by feeding, milking and cleaning up after the cows. Other than the farm, I stay busy helping out our community; participating in track, cross country, FFA, National Honor Society and our school student council. My future plans include going to Bemidji State University and majoring in nursing.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a junior at Waseca High School. This is my second year as the Waseca County Dairy Princess.

I am in 4-H, in which I am the Youth FederaBriana Malone, 18 tion Treasurer, the Youth Emma Kruger, 17 Dairy Superintendent, a Dairy Star Sponsor: Dairy Star Sponsor: Waseca County AmbasOlsen’s Custom Farm Roundbank sador, and my club trea- www.roundbank.com Service surer. I am also in BPA, Staples, Verndale, 507-835-4220 Spanish Club, and FFA. I Story Sales & Service Sebeka plan to go to at least four 218-837-5749 Fairbault, MN years of college, but I am 800-451-6972 undecided on my major and college. My family’s What qualities do you possess that make you a farm in called Em-Mi K Holsteins. We currently have good dairy princess? One quality I possess that about 60 Registered Holsteins in milk, with room to makes me a good dairy princess is my passion to expand, in a 72-stall barn. With youngstock, we have share my knowledge of the dairy industry. about 100 total. My father milked from 1999 to 2000, at which point he sold his herd. We started to buy heifAs a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- ers for me to show in 4-H and eventually they grew to couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy production age. In September 2014, he started to milk lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I can educate the public again and still is today. on how calcium found in dairy products benets the body.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe I am a good dairy If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what princess because I can relate to people. I enjoy workdairy message would you focus on while visiting ing with kids, so I love when I get the opportunity with the public? My message would include the im- to do so, while promoting the dairy industry. Also, I portance of getting three dairy products a day, starting have good communication skills. I have been a part with breakfast. of the 4-H dairy program for eight years, making me comfortable promoting dairy to the public.

Parents: Gary and Valerie Schwartz Town: Wadena Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I consider myself to be a very caring, respectful and wellmannered person. I’m often kept busy by my family and friends, community events and staying active. I have been given the privilege to grow and prosper on our family operated dairy farm. I plan to attend North Dakota State University this fall with an undecided major.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I emphasize that the human body needs milk because of the calcium and other nutrients it provides. It is one of the healthiest things to drink and helps build strong bones. I would stress that dairy and milk in particular do not make people fat, I believe that is a misconception. I would also talk about the extensive testing process that milk goes through to make sure that it is suitable for the public to drink.

For example, milk is screened so that antibiotics and growth hormones are never in it.

Olivia Schwartz, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Leaf River Ag Wadena & Bluffton 218-385-2559

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My dedication to promote the dairy industry the best that I can, my love for the taste of wholesome, nutritious dairy products, and my involvement in the community that supports me are what make me a good dairy princess.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I am not helping at a Breakfast on the Farm. If I were, I would focus on creating a good image for the dairy industry. I would stress the humane treatment of the animals and the excellent quality of the products.

Washington County Parents: Pat and Sharlene Daninger Town: Forest Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities where I am studying agricultural education. I live and work on Autumnwood Farm where we milk 60 registered and grade Mariah Daninger, 20 Holstein cattle. We have Dairy Star Sponsor: approximately 120 head Wingert Sales total including calves and & Service replacement heifers. We Plainview, MN also have a creamery on 507-534-4386 our farm where we process and bottle our milk in glass bottles and sell it in an on-the-farm store as well as around 60 additional stores, coffee shops and cafes.

After graduation, I plan on becoming an agriculture teacher in a high school, while staying involved in the dairy community through farming and the local dairy princess program.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe the number one quality a dairy princess should possess is a passion for our dairy animals and products. I discovered I have this passion at a very young age. Working with my family on our farm has helped me discover that desire to care for our animals and provide a wholesome and nutritious product. Creating connections with consumers is vital in the transparency between producer and consumer. I love having the opportunity to engage in conversation about what I get to do on the farm every day and how that impacts the daily lives of consumers.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, there are a numerous opportunities to encourage dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle. Being a public gure representing the dairy community, a few of these opportunities are visiting classrooms, promotional events and Fuel Up to Play 60 events. Each of these provides unique experiences to encourage dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Breakfast on the Farms are great opportunities to encourage “Dairy 3 for Me”. Being on the farm, consumers are able to see the feedstuffs the animals consume, the dairy cattle themselves, and the milk plant processing, showcasing the idea of “grass to the glass.” By the consumers having the opportunity to show this process, we are able to give meaning behind the idea of consuming three dairy products a day. This event would be a perfect opportunity to have these visitors take the “Dairy 3 for Me” pledge.

Parents: Mark and Denise Lutz Town: Hugo Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I have worked on my dad’s farm since I was about 10 years old.

I help feed calves, milk cows, move cattle, and help with vaccinating and breeding. Now that I am a senior, I am planning on attending University of Wisconsin-River Falls to pursue my goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Claire Lutz, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Werner Implement Vermillion, MN 651-437-9738

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I’m not always the person that is the most outgoing, but when I need to be a role model I will. I always try to Washington County continued on next page

Washington County continued Winona County continued include everyone and treat people with respect. To be loved being on my grandpa’s farm. Over the years I viewed as a role model, I work hard to be the best I have watched the farm grow from a small herringcan be. bone parlor to a large dairy where my grandpa and uncles milk nearly 600 cows. I have learned to respect As a dairy princess, what role do you play in en- the cows and the care we give them as they, in turn, couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy provide us with a living, but also amazing products. lifestyle? I help with providing milk to others and will At my grandparents’ farm, there is a large amount of let other people know that the dairy industry is im- tillable acreage so we can make feed for the cows ourportant and it’s something that shouldn’t be forgotten. selves. This is important because we are always aware of what they are being fed. Although the dairy indusIf you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what try is a big part of my life, my future plans include dairy message would you focus on while visiting a four year education majoring in education or psywith the public? The message that I would give to chology. I want to help kids in high school by being a people is that being a part of the dairy industry is im- guidance counselor or teacher. portant because it teaches others about many things in life including the hard work that people have to go What qualities do you possess that make you a through to provide food for human consumption. good dairy princess? I have an open mind and heart to most anything. I am compassionate about the treatment of cows and all living things. I am well-spoken and am not afraid to speak up whenever needed. I will be a strong advocate for farmers just like my grandpa.

West Otter Tail County

Parents: Todd and Dacia Johnson Town: Fergus Falls

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. When I was young, I enjoyed to help feed the calves in the morning with my “Grandmoo” and then showing calves and heifers at the county fair. I’ve always been an animallover with a special afn- Rachel Johnson, 19 ity for cows. As I nish up Dairy Star Sponsor: my freshman year at ConPerham Co-op cordia College in MoorCreamery head, Minn., my major is Perham, MN Social Studies Education.

218-346-6240 In the future, I hope to be able to reach out to students through teaching and coaching.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I enjoy and have a passion for promoting dairy products and the dairy industry!

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? Dairy products provide many health benets when consumed in proper amounts. The best way for everyone to maintain an overall well-balanced diet is to have three servings of dairy everyday. When you do this, your body receives just the right amount of nutrients from the milk, yogurt, or cheese you are eating!

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? If I was helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, I would focus on diary cow care when interacting with the public. On dairy farms the cows come rst. Dairy farmers provide a wholesome diet, comfortable living conditions, and regular medical care for the cows on their farm in order to keep them healthy and happy.

Winona County Parents: Brad Brouwer and Cami McElmury Town: Altura Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. Ever since I was little, I have had a love for animals. This included animals of all kinds. From early on, I would go to our barn and help my dad feed calves. Whenever they were sick I could tell and I just wanted to be near them to help them feel better. I have had horses, cats, dogs, bunnies, and even a few pigs. I was always around animals and

Calli Brouwer, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Land O’Lakes Melrose, MN 320-256-7461

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? My role is to educate those I come in contact with regarding dairy and the industry, as well as the positive impact of the product. I will promote the product by being educated myself so I can speak to those with questions.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Keep farmers farming. I want all our farmers with a compassion for the industry to stay in the life that they love. I hope to educate others of the importance of farmers and the value of their products.

Parents: Terry and Jana Prigge Town: Winona Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. Currently, I am a senior at LewistonAltura High School. I live and work on our family farm where we milk Holstein cows in a double-8 parallel parlor. We raise all of our calves and re- Elizabeth Prigge, 17 placement heifers and Dairy Star Sponsor: feed out our steers. I am Pettit’s IBA Dairy involved in Minnesota Supply Honor Society, 4-H and Lewiston, MN FFA. This year in FFA I 507-732-5719 judged oriculture which led me to pursue a degree in horticulture. This fall I will be attending Rochester Community and Technical College.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? One of my earliest memories is feeding calves with my dad. I learned from an early age the importance of caring for the animals. This has also taught me the value of hard work, responsibility and dedication. These have all made me passionate about the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I will have the opportunity to teach consumers about dairy nutrition and the health and wellness benets that dairy products have to offer. That a single serving of milk provides you with nine essential nutrients that promote bone strength and reduce the risk of various chronic diseases. I will also encourage physical activity and promote chocolate milk as a great recovery drink for muscles.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Breakfast on the farm is a great opportunity to show the steps from caring for the calves to milking the cows. I would talk about the dairy farmer’s dedication to providing consumers with safe, high quality milk and dairy products and that this starts with taking good care of the animals and the land.

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Wright County Parents: Wayne and Lorrie Kozitka Town: Howard Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I work on my uncle’s farm where we milk about 40 Holsteins and crossbreds. I help with the milking and feeding the calves. I currently house four of my own dairy animals there, Bethany Kozitka, 20 too. This year I am also Dairy Star Sponsor: working as an assistant Munson Lakes Nutrition dance teacher through my & The Country Store local community educaHoward Lake, MN tion program. I volunteer 800-245-7717 in my local 4-H program especially with the dairy project. My hobbies include volleyball, scrapbooking and showing cows.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a strong passion for the dairy community that would be displayed in my role as dairy princess. Being involved in the 4-H program and as a state ambassador provided me with leadership and public speaking skills. Also, it has helped me build my condence and given me a chance to share my dairy farm story. I want to inspire others to see all the benets the dairy community has on the world today.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I play a vital role in encouraging the use of real dairy foods. Every event I meet new people and I can just hope that while talking with them I can make an impact for the use of dairy foods. There are so many ways for everyone to receive the three servings of dairy everyday and I hope to share that message as a dairy princess.

If you’re helping at a Breakfast on the Farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? There are two key messages I would focus on. The rst one would be that farmers and their families are proud of what they do. They work hard and are dedicated to what they love to do. Also, I would share that the animals are well cared for and that is a top priority on the farm. These are just some of the key messages that the public can experience at the farm.

Parents: Charles Robyn Krause Town: Buffalo

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Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a student at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities majoring in agricultural education and a minor in animal science.

I am a sixth generation dairy farmer near Buffalo Morgan Krause, 18 where my family and I Dairy Star Sponsor: milk around 200 Holstein Munson Lakes Nutrition cows. I plan on working in & The Country Store the agricultural communiHoward Lake, MN cations industry or as an 800-245-7717 agriculture educator.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a deep passion for sharing the message of dairy farm families who take great pride in producing wholesome and nutritious milk. I love to engage with the public and educate about milk and how it gets from the farm to them.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I always make sure that I get my three servWright County continued on next page

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ings of dairy each day and I think it is important as a As a dairy princess, what role do you play in endairy princess to share the message of how important couraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy dairy products are in your everyday life. lifestyle? As a dairy princess, I am the face that people will see that is behind the product. It is my If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what responsibility to encourage people to consume dairy dairy message would you focus on while visiting products and as a dairy princess, I am able to be out with the public? I would share the message that a in the community to educate and serve different dairy dairy farmer’s main priority is the health and comfort products to people. This also presents a personal apof their cows. proach to teach all about the nutritious benets of dairy products.

Parents: Julie and Barry Spiers Town: Monticello Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I do not live on a farm. I work on Greenwaves Farm owned by Mark and Paul Berning.

On the farm, we have four robots that were installed in fall of 2014. They help milk about 200 cows. My Ali Spiers, 19 future plans are to raise Dairy Star Sponsor: enough money to be able Munson Lakes Nutrition to have my own ranch. & The Country Store Howard Lake, MN

What qualities do you 800-245-7717 possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am hardworking, so I will work hard to advocate for the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? This role is very important to me. Like many kids, I was one of them who didn’t enjoy milk at all. So for those parents, I help share how important it is for them and how there are many ways in receiving dairy in your daily diets. One example would be chocolate milk. Many believe that chocolate is unhealthy, when in reality it only contains 3 percent more sugar than regular milk and still provides all the essential nutrients.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would be saying dairy is important. Dairy is very important for more than just our bones. Dairy also contributes to us feeling fuller for longer, it helps protect our muscles after we work out, strengthens our immune system, regulates our metabolism, and helps to build strong bones.

Parents: Mark and Tanya Walter Town: Montrose Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Buffalo High School, where I am involved with FFA, 4-H, Students Stepping Up, GAPP (German American Partnership Program), NHS, and Impact Leaders. I attend St. Maisie Walter, 18 Cloud State University as Dairy Star Sponsor: a PSEO student and will Munson Lakes Nutrition complete my generals at & The Country Store St. Cloud in the fall as a Howard Lake, MN sophomore. I will then 800-245-7717 transfer to OSU to major in dairy management, to be an agriculture teacher. My family raises Milking Shorthorns and Brown Swiss which we show.

Douglas County Parents: Todd and Barb Egenes Town: Alexandria Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I live with my two sisters Kayla, 16, and Kristin, 22, and my parents Todd and Barb Egenes. We raise goats and rabbits for showing.

I am very involved in 4-H and FFA. I run cross coun- Megan Egenes, 18 try and shoot trap. I love Dairy Star Sponsor: being outside and spendSunOpta ing time with my friends Alexandria, MN and family. I work at Jas320-763-9822 sel Holsteins, a familyowned dairy farm in Alexandria. My favorite part about working on the farm is the calves. My future plans are to attend Lake Area Technical for dairy nutrition.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a very outgoing person and not afraid to talk to anyone. I am very willing to learn and to hear about issues or any events within the dairy industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am currently planning an Ag in the Classroom lesson about dairy cows for a second grade class. One specic part of the lesson is how easy it is to consume dairy at each meal, whether it be yogurt, milk or butter, it’s an easy addition to your meal. I myself consume dairy on a daily basis, as well as my entire family.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? I would focus on informing the public about how diverse the dairy industry is; all of the effort it takes to help cows produce and stay healthy or even just how many jobs there are in the dairy industry.

Princess

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Steele County has several dairy programs including a dairy ambassador program for the boys the same age as the princesses and a 17-year-old junior dairy ambassador program for both boys and girls grades 4-12. This year they have 28 kids in the program.

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What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very passionate about the dairy industry and love promoting the importance of having dairy in your diet. I enjoy the opportunity to meet new people and see the need for relatable and approachable representatives for the consumer to talk with about the dairy industry. We stand behind the quality of the product we produce, and I strongly believe in being a voice to educate consumers.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? Working on breakfast on the farm is an opportunity for the community to see how a real dairy farming operates. The main message I would focus on is animal care and how it relates to the quality product we bring to market. There is a lot of misinformation about our animal care and we need real situations to explain how and why we do things. Our goal is always to base care decisions on what is best for each animal.

Parents: Gary and Beth Sabolik Town: Kensington Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. Our dairy farm is located just outside of Kensington where we milk about 250 Holstein cows. I love being able to help with chores and milking whenever I am home from school. In my spare Kiersten Sabolik, 18 time I like to play piano, Dairy Star Sponsor: run, read and spend time Ag Country Farm at the lake. I just nished Credit Services my freshman year at the Douglas County College of St. Scholastica 320-763-3184 in Duluth.

I am majoring in exercise physiology and want to become a physical therapist.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a good leader and a good communicator, which will help me to be able to successfully interact with people within my county and the state to spread information about dairy and be a good example for the dairy industry. I also have a passion for dairy and for the agriculture industry having grown up on our dairy farm and around the hard working, caring people that work in the industry.

As a dairy princess, what role do you play in encouraging dairy consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle? I am so excited to be able to share my passion for the dairy industry through my role as a dairy princess this year. Consumer education is one of the most important parts of this position, in my opinion.

Informing people about the essential vitamins and nutrients found in milk, as well as the many different recipes and ways they can  t dairy into their diet can help promote dairy consumption.

If you’re helping at a breakfast on the farm, what dairy message would you focus on while visiting with the public? One of the messages that I think is important to convey to the public is the health benets and the safety of milk and other dairy products.

Milk contains nine essential nutrients that help people to stay healthy and give them energy. Dairy products are also very safe, having been tested several times to make sure that no antibiotics, pesticides or unsafe materials present. Consumers should know that milk quality and safety is a top priority of dairy farmers.

Join Us! Everyone in Minnesota’s dairy community is welcome to join the Midwest Dairy Association on Sunday, May 15, at St. Cloud State University after the banquet celebrating the announcement of the 12 finalists running for Princess Kay of the Milky Way. 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.