2019 Princess Kay Guide

DAIRY ST R Special Edition

August 21, 2019

Donna Honer

66 PRINCESS KAY

Elizabeth Golombiecki

Kayla Biel

OF THE

th

Grace Jeurissen

Elizabeth Krienke

MILKY WAY

Amy Kyllo

Brittney Tiede

Lexie Lange

AnnaMaria Sachs Rachel Paskewitz

Princess Kay of the Milky Way Hall of Fame 2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Christine Reitsma Stearns County

MarJenna McWilliam Polk County

Jeni Haler Carver County

Kyla (Mauk) Gailey Wright County

Haley Hinrichs Goodhue County

Emily Annexstad Nicollet County

Rebekka Paskewitz Todd County

Page 2 • Princess Kay Special Edition • Dairy Star • August 21, 2019

Undeniably Dairy, for you An echo. As I left my bedroom at my family’s house for the final time, every step I took created an echo. In a place that was once filled with trophies, princess dress-ups and laughter, I now found only memories of my many years there. Recently my family moved on from the house On the Road with that built me, a change that made Princess Kay those echoes send shivers down my spine.

Change. It can be so inevitable and it can be so hard.

Often we can see it from a mile away, but it is no easier to bear.

This year, I have had the chance to listen and learn from folks who have experienced some of the greatest changes and turmoil life can throw at us. I’ve visited with folks who overcame the odds, and went above and beyond to prove By Rebekka Paskewitz they would accomplish more. 65th Princess Kay of the In the midst of Milky Way dairy’s hurdles this year, each of you has shown me what it takes to rise up from the toughest experiences we face. You’ve shown me that walking away from all we know isn’t an opportunity to hear an echo of all we had, but a chance to use our voice moving forward. Thank you.

It seems like just yesterday I typed my first article to you.

Now with less than a month left in my reign, I’m finding more comfort than ever in being able to use my voice for the dairy community.

My day is still brightened when I think of the memories made in this crown and sash. From events on the farm to county fair dairy shows, the connections I’ve made are phenomenal.

On many of my visits, my cup was filled by a simple look of amazement from a student as they received an answer to their question. Other days, I was overjoyed by the emotion that poured out of stories told by the elderly from their time on the farm. And on every occasion I have the pleasure of meeting a dairy farmer, my heart pounds as I find how unique each of your farms are, and how pivotal your passion is in making dairy farming your lifestyle. This is what Undeniably Dairy looks like.

It’s more than sharing how we ensure dairy is responsibly produced and locally driven. It’s more than pointing out how nutrient-rich dairy can be and how much real enjoyment it adds to our lives.

It’s the people. It’s the cows. It’s the hugs. It’s the tears. It’s the smiles. It’s the laughter. It’s you.

This year it has been easy to say I am Undeniably Dairy because I stand behind men and women like you. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and learn from you.

In just a few days, I will experience a significant change as I crown your 66th Princess Kay of the Milky Way. Like so many changes, I knew it was coming. However, that doesn’t make it any easier to say goodbye.

As I reflect on my year and look forward to what is next, I want to leave you with a couple of golden nuggets I’ve treasured this year.

First, I truly believe we are all in this together. If we cut out all the prejudices we so easily find in how we view our neighbors and fellow dairy family, we can be much more cohesive. We need the nutritionists, the heifer-raisers, the large and small farms, the folks who didn’t grow up in dairy and those who did, the milk haulers, the cheese processors, and everything in between.

It takes all kinds of kinds to make the dairy community thrive.

Continue searching for new opportunities and welcoming others into the dairy family.

Secondly, I believe together we can face any adversity. As dairy farmers, we are not foreign to challenges. We all face things on our farms and in our personal lives that trigger emotion, frustration and worry. Please know you are not alone. Lean on one another. Help each other. Invite a neighboring farmer over for breakfast. Sometimes just being with someone can provide a comfort we all need at some point in our lives. In the words of one of our nearby dairy farmers, “that’s what neighbors do.”

Dairy farmers, thank you. Thank you for welcoming me into your dairy family. Thank you for showing me your lives and hearts. Thank you for exemplifying hard work and good character.

Thank you for being the reason I can say with confidence and pride that “at the heart of it all, farmers care.”

Now and always, I choose to be Undeniably Dairy, for you.

Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Rebekka Paskewitz, serves as the Minnesota dairy community’s goodwill ambassador.

Throughout the year, Princess Kay helps people understand the dedication of dairy farmers to wholesome and nutritious food, and the way milk is produced.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Paskewitz family – (from left) Rebekka, Alan, Lexi, Vicki and Rachel – gather around their home in Browerville, Minn. Rebekka has spent the last year serving as Princess Kay of the Milky Way.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Fuel Up To Play 60 student ambassadors work with Princess Kay of the Milky Way Rebekka Paskewitz to promote the FUTP 60 program at a an event prior to a Minnesota Vikings game in January.

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Princess Kay of the Milky Way Rebekka Paskewitz visits with students Feb. 13 at Loring Elementary School in Minneapolis.

Princess Kay Special Edition • Dairy Star • August 21, 2019 • Page 3

66th Princess Kay of the Milky Way Candidates

Kayla Biel, 19

Elizabeth Golombiecki, 22

Parents: Kevin and Kelly Biel Harmony, Fillmore County

Parents: Julie Golombiecki and the late Ron Golombiecki Morris, Stevens County

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? My all-time favorite event is Dairy Night on the Farm. It’s a great experience for everyone involved. From farm tours to making butter, everyone finds something to enjoy and take away from. It is such a hands-on night.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? The true dedication dairy farmers have give me inspiration every day. They spend all their time and resources on their cows to make sure they have a great quality of life and are producing a quality product for us all to enjoy.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? After morning chores, I love to come in and make a cheesy omelet. Dairy farmers not only produce milk, they consume it, as well. My family eats the same cheese and yogurt as everyone else’s, so we make sure everyone has a safe and tasty treat.

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? The Stevens County Fair has to be my favorite event. There are so many things going on, and I am able to connect with a wide variety of people. This year, we had butter sculpting contests, daily trivia, cheese samples, butter making demonstrations and a TMR snack mix for the kids. With such a variety of activities, we are able to reach people and talk about a wide array of dairy topics.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? I admire how each farm is so unique and may not do things the same as the farm down the road. We are all still taking the best care of our cows and sending wholesome, safe milk from our farms. Even with our differences, we come together as a dairy community to help each other and celebrate.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? Dairy farmers want the best for your family just like they want the best for their own families. You are the reason we continue to do what we do each and every day.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans?

Being a dairy princess has influenced me in many ways. A very important trait I’ve learned is I love to talk about cows. This has inspired me to teach agriculture and continue to talk about cows and share my dairy story for a long time.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? Serving as a dairy princess has helped me make connections in the community and taken me to a variety of dairy farms. Through my experiences, I am even more confident in my decision to be working on my family’s dairy farm. I have a community of support and so many people to gain knowledge and help from as I move my career as a dairy farmer forward.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? I would pick Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to represent the dairy community because he is known throughout all age groups and is very family oriented like dairy farmers.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be? Mike Rowe from “Dirty Jobs.” He understands the hard work that goes into dairy farming and many other jobs, and would be able to relate it well to everyone. He is also an advocate for technical careers, many of which are needed from time to time on dairy farms.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? We are already so proud of everything Kayla has accomplished.

If she did receive Princess Kay of the Milky Way it would be icing on the cake. Either way, we know she will continue to do what she loves and advocate for Minnesota’s dairy farms.

Parent: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? It would mean a lot to me because Elizabeth has always dreamed of being Princess Kay, and her dad always told her she would have her head carved in butter; this is a bittersweet moment. She loves promoting the dairy industry and takes great pride in doing it. I know she would do a wonderful job.

Page 4 • Princess Kay Special Edition • Dairy Star • August 21, 2019

66th Princess Kay of the Milky Way Candidates (Continued)

Donna Honer, 19

Grace Jeurissen, 18

Parents: Scott and Toni Honer St. Cloud, Stearns County

Parents: Rick and Mindy Jeurissen Lester Prairie, McLeod County

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? Serving ice cream at my local farmers market. I had the chance to visit with folks of different ages and backgrounds about the dairy community. It was cool for me to realize how much people love dairy whether for its delicious taste or its simple, nutrient rich ingredients.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? I admire how Minnesota dairy farmers are always so flexible.

Dairy farmers understand the importance in protecting our natural resources, as well as taking good care of their cows. It amazes me at how farmers can tend to the land and their cattle in a profitable manner while battling many different factors.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? A fun fact I would share with them is that more than 97% of dairy farms in the United Stares are family owned and operated. These families are passionate about caring for their cows and leaving the land better than when they inherited it because that means a better fresher product for you to enjoy.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? Being a dairy princess has solidified that I absolutely love talking to people about agriculture and helping them learn more. My future plans are to pursue my agriculture education teaching degree. I plan to remain involved in my local 4-H group and FFA chapter to help youth find their passion in dairy.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? Temple Grandin. She has been an advocate for animal rights and animal welfare and is now a professor at Colorado State University. Her work has always reflected the treatment that livestock owners wish to manage their cattle. I feel if she was to further her studies and or speak about dairy, she would make a positive impact in the way consumers view dairy products.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? If Donna was chosen as Princess Kay, it would truly be the biggest joy for us as her parents. We feel her passion for agriculture and the dairy community has been such a big part of her life for the last several years, and being crowned Princess Kay would truly make this endeavor come full circle for her. When she is out in public sharing and educating about the dairy industry, she has a way of drawing people to her. She is always so upbeat and excited to talk about anything dairy related.

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? My favorite events this year have been the parades. Our county supplies us with cheese sticks to toss off the float into the crowds. People look forward to seeing our float, because cheese sticks are very popular. Every parade is a success, because we have fun doing it and the people get a healthy snack. Cheese sticks are a great way to get in a serving of dairy.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? I love working alongside dairy farmers everyday. They are some of the most thoughtful, helpful, caring, kind, hardworking and funny people you will ever meet. It takes a special kind of person to be able to run a farm. Being able to represent such elite individuals gives me a sense of pride, belonging and satisfaction with the community of people I work in and represent.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? Farmers pledge themselves to responsibly manage their land, cattle and facilities. They spend their time doing hard physical labor so people can enjoy something that they worked hard to produce.

Farmers care about their businesses just as much as they care about their families.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? My plan for the future is to have a career in livestock media. I feel that by being a dairy princess, I have been given insight into different types of people and how to connect with them on a more personal level. This will benefit anyone going into the public relations field.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? I would choose Luke Bryan. He has always been a promoter of farm living. He has a positive image and a keen sense of humor. He also has a large audience that he could reach a wide variety of people.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? Mindy: Grace has grown to be such an amazing young woman. We are proud of her hardwork on the farm and of her achievements through school and 4-H. We would be very proud to have her represent our livelihood. Grace is such an outgoing, warm person, and she loves sharing her passion for agriculture with consumers. Rick: I have the personal experience of having worked with Grace and knowing without a doubt in my mind, she does make the prime candidate for the role of Princess Kay. She has the gift of tolerance, patience, understanding, to look for another person’s interests, and be able to appreciate them for who they are. It would be an honor to know that we have contributed to the development of Grace’s innate qualities.

Princess Kay Special Edition • Dairy Star • August 21, 2019 • Page 5

66th Princess Kay of the Milky Way Candidates (Continued)

Elizabeth Krienke, 19

Amy Kyllo, 19

Parents: Kraig and Rachelle Krienke Lester Prairie, McLeod County

Parents: Paul and Susan Kyllo Byron, Olmsted County

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? Hutch Dairy Day was by far my favorite. This event is held in the town square and there is a cow milking contest, butter making, a meal and much more. We were able to reach a broad group of community members in a fun, interactive atmosphere that encouraged dialogue about dairy with the attending dairy royalty, including myself and the current Princess Kay of the Milky Way, assisting in all aspects.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? The dairy farmers I represent are proud of who they are and what they do. It makes our job as princesses more enjoyable because the farmers are authentic and real when prompted with questions and requests.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? Dairy farmers strive to provide for their cattle and land. On our farm, it is a family affair as we have three generations who work hard alongside each other every day to ensure we sustain the land and keep our cows healthy and comfortable.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? It has fueled my love for the dairy community and its people even more. I am currently attending South Dakota State University, majoring in dairy production and am a member of the dairy club. After college, I intend on having an occupation on the farm or with the farmers.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? I would choose Ree Drummond because she is authentic and down-to-earth. Better yet, she loves to incorporate dairy treats into her recipes. She is a strong believer in butter and heavy whipping cream, for sure!

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? The position of Princess Kay puts a young woman in a unique position to interact with professionals, farmers and consumers across the state of Minnesota throughout the year. While it would be a fantastic opportunity for Elizabeth, we shouldn’t let a lack of crown and sash hold any of us back from reaching out to consumers and promoting dairy.

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? Fun with a Farmer was a great event I attended twice this summer. This was an event where daycare kids spent half an hour at each of the various agriculture stations.

I spent my time in the dairy room, working with my fellow princesses to explain animal care, farm to table and more. Having time to talk about farming and answer questions was a great opportunity to give the kids a quick view of dairy farming. I liked this event because we were able to go beyond the externals and talk about dairy farming and nutrition.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? I admire Minnesota dairy farmers’ perseverance. Dairy farmers continue year after year to dairy farm, even when the weather is against them, prices are adverse, and there is more and more work to be done. Not only to do they tenaciously continue to do the work, they continue to get it done well.

Their perseverance, determination and work ethic is second to none.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? I would tell people about the excellent animal care farmers give, how much farmers care about the well-being of their animals, that my farm is a participant in the FARM program, and finally mention my family and I drink the milk we produce.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? Currently, I am considering a career in public relations and communications. I feel my work in advocacy and public relations as a dairy princess is enabling me to get a taste of my possible future career. I believe my training as a princess will give me tools for my professional career. I am privileged to work in a program that equips me and parallels my career considerations.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? I would choose Joe Mauer. I think he would be a great advocate because he is Minnesota born, is active in local charity, has already been in dairy advertisements, and has the name recognition of a highly respected baseball player with a brilliant career.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? We would be so proud and happy to have Amy represent the dairy community as Princess Kay. It is an honor and privilege to be Princess Kay, and Amy would work hard to be a positive bridge between dairy farmers, their support industry, and consumers.

Page 6 • Princess Kay Special Edition • Dairy Star • August 21, 2019

66th Princess Kay of the Milky Way Candidates (Continued)

Lexie Lange, 19

Rachel Paskewitz, 19

Parents: Mark and Joanna Lange Sherburn, Martin County

Parents: Alan and Vicki Paskewitz Browerville, Todd County

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? The cooking class I taught at Hy-Vee in Fairmont, Minn. This event was designed to help kids learn how to incorporate dairy foods into their lifestyle as a healthy snack option. Kids in sixth grade and under were invited to learn how to cook with myself alongside the registered Hy-Vee dietitian. We began by making breaded mozzarella sticks, then a fruit and yogurt smoothie, and we ended with a simple snack of cheese and grapes.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? Something I have grown to admire in dairy farmers as I have grown up is their dedication and determination. Even when times are tough they always find a way to look on the bright side and work through even the most difficult situations.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? I would present the message of how much dairy farmers truly care for their animals. Farmers truly do care for each and every one of their animals; they’re more than just a way to make a living. I can see this especially with my dad, who has always held a deep passion for all his animals.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? As dairy princess I have had countless opportunities to showcase and improve my communication abilities which will help me tremendously in my professional career, as well as my personal futures. This experience has provided me with endless opportunities and I plan to continue to advocate for agriculture no matter where life takes me.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? If I were to choose a celebrity to represent the dairy community, I would choose Carrie Underwood. She has been an iconic country singer throughout my childhood. I have countless memories growing up on the farm listening to country singers such as Carrie.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? It would be an honor for us if our daughter were chosen as Princess Kay of the Milky Way. We have always known that Minnesota dairy producers have provided quality, wholesome products for consumers, and knowing our daughter would be representing our industry would be a proud moment for us. We have always tried to show our children the value of working hard and honestly providing for our family, and that working together with our family, neighbors and community helps us all. To see our daughter publicly representing the heritage that has been our family legacy for generations would forever be an achievement we would be proud of.

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? One of my all-time favorite summer events is breakfast on the farm. Not only is this event beneficial for our communities and eaters, but it is also beneficial for our farmers.

It isn’t often that farmers get to share their passion and their farm with members of surrounding communities, and that is why this event is so vital for farmers, as well.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? It’s no secret farmers work day in and day out to provide us with some of the safest, healthiest and nutrient rich foods on the market. A lot of what farmers go through on a daily basis goes unnoticed by the general public, but they continue to pursue this work as hard as they do day in and day out each day – because it is what they love. This right here, is what I admire about our dairy farmers.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? One message I love to share with people is dairy is responsibly produced. With constant monitoring and testing, dairy foods are some of the safest foods on the market. Farmers take pride in what they do because it is their livelihood and passion.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? I am currently a sophomore at South Dakota State University, majoring in human development and family studies. In the future, my goal is to receive a master’s degree in clinical counseling in rural communities. I would love to serve in a rural community, so I can serve farmers and agriculturalists, as I know the hardships they have seen and been through. As a princess, I have been able to grow my passion for the dairy community and serve in a way I never thought possible.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? Some of you may know of her as the Pioneer Woman, but Ree Drummond is the celebrity I would choose. Ree has been one of my biggest role models ever since I was a little girl, because she embodies my passions in life – faith, ranching and cooking. I believe Ree would do a great job representing the dairy community, because she understands agricultural life and the importance of using dairy in our favorite recipes.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? We would be so proud of her, so proud that it would be difficult to put into words. Rachel’s love of the dairy community speaks volumes – in the jobs she puts her heart and soul into, the love and care she pours into the cows she cares for, and the responsibility and respect she shows to all those around her. There is no doubt in our minds Rachel could and would represent Minnesota’s dairy community as Princess Kay of the Milky Way to the best of her ability with her beautiful smile and generous heart and soul.

Princess Kay Special Edition • Dairy Star • August 21, 2019 • Page 7

66th Princess Kay of the Milky Way Candidates (Continued)

AnnaMarie Sachs, 19

Brittney Tiede, 18

Parents: Charlie and Carrie Sachs Eyota, Olmsted County

Parents: Lloyd and Diane Tiede Le Center, Le Sueur County

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? I would say the Fun with the Farmer events that we do with our farm bureau and Rochester schools. Over the course of two weeks, we go to various SACC programs and teach kids about dairy, from nutrition to the care we give the animals. The kids always ask the best questions and the impact we have on them is incredible to see.

You can really see the success when you see those kids at the fair or other events weeks later and they still remember what you said and who you are.

What has been your favorite dairy promotion event this summer? My favorite event has been visiting one of our banks in Belle Plaine. A few of our ambassadors bring in animals (calves, bunnies, goats and sheep) and we invite the public, as well as daycare groups to come out. Having the animals there gives us a fun way to get kids involved and ask questions. After everyone gets a chance to pet the animals, they get ice cream. This event is very successful in sharing the importance of dairy, especially because the animals help engage the kids.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? The farmers we represent are some of the most hardworking individuals I have met. No matter the weather, they are doing what they love to make sure we have the nutritious and delicious products to enjoy every-day.

What do you admire most about the dairy farmers you represent as a Princess Kay finalist? Dairy farmers are both hard working and compassionate. No matter how hot or cold it is, they are tending to their cows because they care. They care about their animals, their land and the product they produce. I am so fortunate to represent such a hardworking group of individuals.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? One thing I always share with people when they ask why my family farms or why I want to farm is that if I didn’t believe in what we are doing I would not be here. Every farmer works every single day to provide the utmost care for their animals to create a product they are proud to provide to consumers everywhere.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? Serving as a dairy princess allowed me to find my love for teaching in a classroom. Seeing the faces of students light up when you tell a story about the farm is something you can’t put into words until you see it, and I can’t wait to do that in my career. It also helped me realize I want to help my family farm in the future and give others the chance to come to the farm to learn more about where their food comes from.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? I absolutely love cooking shows and food, so I would pick Ree Drummond, also known as the Pioneer Woman. Not only does she cook, but she is also a rancher who can speak on the hard work of farmers and ranchers everywhere. It would also be cool to hear her speak about the nutrition of dairy products while also giving us amazing recipes.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? It would mean the absolute world for our daughter, who loves the dairy community, to share and to educate, but most of all, to relate to the dairy farmers of Minnesota. To be there on behalf of the dairy farmers to speak for them and tell their story. We are very proud of our daughter and her love for the dairy community.

What message would you use to encourage people to put their trust in dairy farmers and the products they produce? Dairy is responsibly produced. Each step of the way is monitored to ensure a safe product for all to enjoy. Farmers put the same product on their table as what goes to tables around the world. They are feeding their families, as well as the people beyond their own table.

How has serving as a dairy princess influenced your future plans? I’ve learned how much I love sharing the dairy story. In the fall, I will be attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where I will be studying ag business and dairy science. My current plan is to eventually get into the business side of agriculture with hopes to eventually become an ag lender and help farmers achieve their goals.

If you could pick a celebrity to represent the dairy industry, who would it be and why? Heidi Klum. She’s a model and a business woman. She is a role model to many. She is 44 and has a family that is always a priority for her. She is also very open about the fact that even though many celebrities are on dairy free diets, she doesn’t believe in those diets. She drinks whole milk and cooks with butter happily.

Parents: What would it mean to you to have your daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way? To have our daughter represent Minnesota’s dairy industry as Princess Kay of the Milky Way would mean so much to us. There are many people who still do not fully understand what the dairy industry is all about, so it would be wonderful to have our daughter represent this incredible industry by sharing not only her story and experience, but of all the wonderful people involved in dairy.

Page 8 • Princess Kay Special Edition • Dairy Star • August 21, 2019

Dairy delights at the 2019 Minnesota State Fair Food, friends and fun are annually abundant at the Minnesota State Fair – just like bottomless milk, creamy malts and flavorful cheese. This year, visitors to the fair have a variety of ways to celebrate the dairy tradition and can partake in all the Undeniably Dairy fun, including a visit to the Dairy Goodness Bar to enjoy the winner of Midwest Dairy’s fifth annual “Flavor of the Fair” contest: Birthday Batter Blast malt or sundae. They can also make flavor suggestions for next year while watching the 66th Princess Kay of the Milky Way and the nine finalists have their likenesses carved in butter. Also, not to be missed is the All-You-Can-Drink Milk Stand, owned by Minnesota’s dairy farm families. Celebrating its 65th year at the fair, visitors to the All-YouCan-Drink Milk Stand can purchase a bottomless cup of 2 percent white or low-fat chocolate milk for just $2.

Guests can also join other dairy devotees for the 35th Annual Milk Run 5K early on the first Sunday of the fair.

Minnesota’s Icon, Princess Kay The 10 Princess Kay of the Milky Way candidates have been preparing for judging and coronation since they were selected in May. From the start of the Princess Kay program in 1954, the coronation has served as the unofficial kick-off to the fair, bringing together State Fair and dairy enthusiasts to celebrate the dairy community’s important contribution to Minnesota.

The coronation ceremony starts at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at the State Fair Band Shell (1302 Cooper Street).

Beginning on Thursday, Aug. 22, the 2019 Princess Kay of the Milky Way and each of the nine Princess Kay finalists will have their likenesses carved in butter. Princess Kay’s likeness will be carved over two days, on Thursday, Aug. 22, and Friday, Aug. 23, with one of the nine finalists’ likenesses carved each day of the fair through Sunday, Sept. 1, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Dairy Building (1694 Judson Avenue). Princess Kay and the finalists will share their dairy stories and answer questions from the crowd as they sit for artist

Linda Christensen inside the 40-degree, rotating sculpting booth. They will also appear in Midwest Dairy’s educational area across from the butter sculptures, bringing dairy to life with fair-goers by sharing stories and answering questions about farmers’ commitment to health, animal care and the environment.

Princess Kay and the finalists will also provide family activities and games at the Christensen Farm Stage near the FFA Miracle of Birth Center (Judson and Clough) at 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Aug. 24, 26, 27, 30, 31 and Sept. 1.

Fair-goers can follow the Princess Kay coronation live and see updates from the Fair on Twitter, @MidwestDairy and with the hashtag #MNPrincessKay, as well as on Princess Kay’s Facebook page.

All-You-Can-Drink Milk The Best Value at the Fair – Fairgoers seeking their fill of fresh, cold, 2 percent white or low-fat chocolate milk can do so for just $2 per cup at the All-You-Can-Drink Milk Stand, which will celebrate its 65th year in

2019. The all-you-can drink tradition began in 1955 when the stand was a tent on Machinery Hill, charging a dime for a bottomless cup of white milk. It later moved to its current location on the corner of Judson and Clough (kitty-corner from the Coliseum), and following a rebuild of the stand in 2004, chocolate milk was added to the menu. It is the only food or drink item offered at the fair as an unlimited item.

35th Annual Milk Run Runners will be behind the starting line when the 35th annual State Fair Milk Walk/Run 5K kicks off this year on Sunday morning, Aug. 25, (7:45 a.m.; on West Dan Patch south of the West End Market). Midwest Dairy is sponsoring the event again this year, with Kemps providing the free chocolate milk to runners as they cross the finish line. All runners will also receive a coupon for a complimentary treat from the Dairy Goodness Bar, courtesy of Minnesota’s dairy farmers. Princess Kay of the Milky Way will give the signal for the race to begin.

Match the Facts

Match the unique fact to the girl it belongs to.

Kayla Biel

Elizabeth Golombiecki

Donna Honer

Grace Jeurissen

Elizabeth Krienke

5)________

1)________

2)________

3)________

4)________

Amy Kyllo

Lexie Lange

Rachel Paskewitz

AnnaMaria Sachs

Brittney Tiede

6)________

7)________

8)________

9)________

10)________

A) I am a member of the Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band at South Dakota State University where I am part of the colorguard squad – those people who spin flags.

B) Beyond my passion for agriculture I also have a passion for music. I sing and play six different instruments. They include the piano, guitar, ukulele, harmonica, mandolin and even the concertina.

C) I have conducted a full size train.

D) On my farm, we have a zip line which is a great way to shake off a long day of chores.

E) I play the guitar and sing with it on occasion. I started playing when I was 10, I took lessons for a few years, then stopped. I just recently started picking it up and playing it again.

F) I have always wanted to have my own cooking show and I think that would be a great way to show how much dairy we use on a daily basis. It would be fun to use some of my butter sculpture in my cooking segments and let the goodness of dairy shine.

G) When I was a little girl I would tell myself stories about my cats and their adventures. Imagine a continuous story about: cat-catchers, rescues, queens, dresses and things numbering quadrillion.

H) A s a young girl I used to eat butter by the stick. Although I no longer do that, I still love eating butter on anything possible, especially waffles, sweet corn and french toast.

I) I am quite a history buff. I love reading and watching videos to continue to learn more.

J) I used to be horse crazy as a little girl. Once I began working with bovines, there was no going back.

Answers: 1I, 2C, 3J, 4E, 5H, 6G, 7D, 8F, 9A, 10B