Dp tab2017

DAIRY ST R

Special Edition

May 13, 2017

An unforgettable reign Hinrichs enjoying year as Princess Kay of the Milky Way

By Krista Kuzma

krista.k@dairystar.com

GOODHUE, Minn. – Although her reign as Princess Kay of the Milky Way still has several months left, Haley Hinrichs said the role so far has been exciting and educational.

“It’s been an unforgettable experience,” Hinrichs said.

“All the events I’ve been to, I’ve been trying to take them all in and really remember everything.”

The day before the opening of the 2016 Minnesota State Fair, Hinrichs received the crown as 63rd Princess Kay of the Milky Way, a role in which she promotes and teaches others about Minnesota’s dairy industry. The 20-year-old is nishing her sophomore year at Iowa State University where she is studying agricultural communications and agricultural education. When not out doing Princess Kay appearances this summer, Hinrichs will be home, helping her dad, Tim, and brother, Justin, work on their100-cow dairy near Goodhue, Minn.

“I love milking cows.

There were times in high school when it would be a stressful

day. I would come home and milk cows. The milkers were so calming and I could just do work, talk with my dad and I just loved it,” Hinrichs said.

During the month of May, Hinrichs will focus on school tours.

“When I walk into a school visit I’m never completely sure what type of group I’m going to get. Talking to kids in Goodhue is different than talking to ones in the Twin Cities.

[Regardless], I try to focus on the nutritional benets and really interact with the kids,” she said.

Talking with students ts in with her college studies.

“Since I am an education major, I like interacting with the kids. I am very excited to be going into the schools. I know as a county dairy princess the school visits were one of my favorite parts,” Hinrichs said.

June will be lled with dairy month events such as counties hosting a breakfast on the farm. In July, Hinrichs will take a break as Princess Kay and go on a three-week

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Haley Hinrichs has served as the 63rd Princess Kay of the Milky Way since August. Hinrichs is also a sophomore at Iowa State University. mission trip through a school religious organization before coming home to prepare for her nal month as the state’s dairy ambassador.

“It’s all been very exciting. I’ve had a lot of fun at the

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Haley Hinrichs visits with the WCCO news crew during the Minnesota State Fair last year. Hinrichs’ role as Princess Kay has her promoƟng and teaching others about Minnesota’s dairy industry.

events. It’s been cool to see so many different people and interact with different people,” Hinrichs said, reecting on her reign so far.

Along with teaching others, Hinrichs has learned a few things herself.

“There have been a lot of perceptions I’ve had about farmers or consumers or the dairy community or myself as an agriculturalist that have slowly been changing and becoming much better. While I get to teach everyone else about dairy, they’re always teaching me new things, too, as far as educating and communicating,” she said.

Hinrichs said each appearance has been unique, and she couldn’t pick one as a favorite.

She started her reign at the state fair.

“The best way to describe those 12 days is I was doing a little bit of everything,” she said.

There have also been ban-

quets, conventions and other farm gatherings. Plus, Hinrichs was able to see the new Vikings football stadium during a Fuel Up to Play 60 event this past fall.

“I had a lot of fun at that and I know my dad and brother thoroughly enjoyed that as well,” she said.

Perhaps one of the biggest learning curves Hinrichs has endured is the use of social media. Although she has had personal accounts in the past, she never used them much.

“When I became Princess Kay, I knew I personally wanted to be the one making the [social media] posts. Because of that, it’s allowed me to be more open and get more outside my comfort zone and share my own story,” Hinrichs said.

She also included her family in pictures on social media.

“At times it might have been challenging for my dad and brother, but then they realized they were a big part of my dairy story so they said it was OK for them to be in a picture,” Hinrichs said.

Throughout her reign, Hinrichs saw her social media page reach many people who don’t have dairy backgrounds.

During May, Hinrichs is excited to connect with other young women who are county dairy princesses at a media training and promotional education weekend. It’s also when the next 12 Princess Kay nalists will be selected.

“I’m excited to interact with them and bestow any type of wisdom that I can upon them to help them make the most of their experience,” Hinrichs said.

Hinrichs knows she will be trying to make the most of her last few months as the reigning Princess Kay of the Milky Way. “I’m very thankful for all the people I’ve been able to interact with so far, but I’m also eager to see what this summer brings,” Hinrichs said. “I love what I’m doing. I love what Princess Kay is doing on a daily basis.”

Introducing Your County Dairy Princesses For 2017...

Page 2 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017

Benton County

Parents: Jerome and Natalie Schubert Town: Rice Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I attend North Dakota State University for agricultural economics with a minor in crop and weed science.

I am involved in 4-H and am an FFA alumna. I am Rebecca Schubert, employed by O&S Dairy 18 near Rice, Minn. O&S Dairy Star Sponsor: Dairy has a herd of 250 O&S Dairy Holsteins and farms 900 Rice, MN acres. In the future, I hope 320-393-3601 to work as an agricultural consultant and get my master’s degree in agricultural economics.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about my job, the dairy industry and agriculture. My passion for these things, mixed with my ability to relate to people and my talkative, humorous nature makes me a good fit for the role.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think the most important message to share is the fact that the dairy farmers who provide the milk to create dairy products strive for excellence. There is a lot of attention to detail for the dairy product on its pathway from the farm all the way to the dinner table.

Our dairy farmers do everything possible to ensure the dairy products in our homes are of the best quality.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? My main argument when trying to convince someone that dairy products are a great option in a diet is the amount of nutrients packed into milk and other products. One of the most common nutrients is calcium, but it doesn’t stop there. Dairy products have potassium, Vitamins A, D and B12, and a lot of protein.

Dairy products are nutrient-packed powerhouses.

Parents: Joe Bromenschenkel and Melissa Smelter Town: Sauk Rapids Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have been involved in softball since I was in seventh grade and I am in my third year of FFA where I am a chapter officer. Also, I have been Alison Smelter, 17 involved in farm life since Dairy Star Sponsor: the moment I was born. I Gilman Co-op started helping, and evenGilman, MN tually working, on the 320-387-2770 farm owned by my grandparents, John and Sandy Smelter. When they retired in 2016, I started working on my uncle’s farm of 200 acres, with 65 cows. My future plans are to stay within the dairy business, own a small hobby farm and be a large animal veterinarian.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Over the years of working with many people in my FFA chapter, I think I possess many qualities of leadership, respect, understanding and commitment.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The prices for dairy products (cheese and milk) are very low right now, so get it while you can.

Benton County continued

Brown County continued

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them to choose dairy products – things like milk, cheese and butter. Dairy alternatives aren’t really dairy, they’re a substitute.

Brown County Parents: Tom and Mary Portner Town: Sleepy Eye Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My family and I live on a registered Brown Swiss dairy farm, where we are milking around 270 head and have 200 head of heifers. On our farm, we use compost bed pack barns for our lactating cattle and a 12-stall swing herringbone parlor.

My plans after college include attending Iowa State University to study dairy science.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My love for the taste of dairy products, my desire to educate the next generation about the dairy industry, and my involvement in the community that supports dairy farmers are what make me a good dairy princess.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? An important message to share with consumers is that no matter what size of the dairy, the farmers are dedicated and take good care of their cows. This reassures consumers they are consuming a fresh, nutritious and wholesome product.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? As a dairy princess, I would encourage my friends to consume the recommended three dairy servings each day as dairy products have nine essential nutrients that are necessary for a healthy, active lifestyle. I would inform them there are many recipes that include milk, cheese and yogurt that can help them incorporate dairy in their diet.

Isabella Portner, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Springfield Co-op Sleepy Eye, MN 507-723-5560

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have been greatly involved in the dairy industry in most every avenue and am very knowledgeable of all that goes on from the cow to the consumer’s table. I have learned a lot about making sure to send a positive and mature message to consumers, and work in my day-to-day life to promote all the great benefits of consuming dairy products.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I feel the most important message to share with consumers is the respect and kindness we treat our animals. I have grown to see many consumers are unsure about the way we treat our animals. With many conflicting organizations sending different messages, it is important for them to know the truth of what goes on at the farm.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would say to always grab the real stuff. It is important to always drink milk that comes from a cow because it is much more beneficial to a person’s health with nine essential vitamins and nutrients. There are dairy options that are available to those who are lactose intolerant.

Parents: Dean and Karen Sellner Town: Sleepy Eye Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior in high school. I live and work on our family farm where we milk approximately 60 Holsteins. Being the youngest of three, my main responsibilities Natalie Sellner, 17 on the farm include feedDairy Star Sponsor: ing and taking care of the AMPI young calves every mornNew Ulm Division ing and evening. I am inwww.ampi.com volved in FFA, National Honor Society, Teen Court and church activities. This fall, I will attend Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, S.D., majoring in physical therapy.

Carver County Parents: Daniel and Kathie Broll Town: Chaska Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. We milk 100 cows on my second-generation dairy farm. We have an assortment of other animals like cats, dogs and chickens that I grew up playing with. In the future, I plan Amy Broll, 19 to be a dentist or an orthoDairy Star Sponsor: dontist.

Bongards’ Creameries Norwood-Young

What qualities do you America, MN possess that make you 952-277-5500 a good dairy princess? I have real-life experience working and living on a dairy farm, so instead of memorizing a bunch of information and reciting it to people, I have experienced farming in action my whole life. I also really enjoy talking and interacting with people, and sharing my animal background with them.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? One of the most important messages to share right now is that dairy is a nutritious powerhouse. I feel this is an important message because of the recurring notion that people have to stay away from dairy foods because they are unhealthy for you.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would recommend her to try cheese because cheese comes in so many flavors and textures that it can be paired with just about everything. Also, each serving of cheese contains so many nutrients needed to help us stay healthy.

Carver County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017 • Page 3

Carver County continued

Carver County continued

Parents: Daniel and Kathie Broll Town: Chaska

I would want consumers to know that dairy farmers care. They care about their livestock, and they care about the consumers. Without the cattle, there would be no dairy products for everybody to enjoy; without the consumers, there would be no need for dairy farmers.

It is a fragile relationship farmers try hard to maintain.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a dairy farm. In addition to milking cows, I helped with fieldwork and with herd organization, management and health. I am going to school at the Anna Broll, 19 University of WisconsinDairy Star Sponsor: River Falls where I am Bongards’ Creameries majoring in biomedical Norwood-Young sciences. I hope to go to America, MN medical school and spe952-277-5500 cialize in oncology. Dairy is what brought health and well-being to my awareness, and because of it, I want to help keep people as healthy as possible.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe I am very relatable. I take my passion for the dairy community and am able to convey it to both non-farming and farming families. I am very enthusiastic about the dairy community and everything it adds to the world. I am very personable and social. I am considerate of other people’s opinions, but I am also adamant on what I personally believe: dairy is very essential in our daily lives.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think it is important for consumers to know farmers care immensely for their animals and are good caretakers of their lands. Their animals are like their extended family; cows get their beds cleaned, their food served in bed and their nails done. Farmers also care about the environment and will do as much as they can to ensure their land is well maintained.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell my friend, “Cow milk is the best option for you because one cup of cow milk gives you the nine essential vitamins and minerals, and three cups of cow milk will give you all the calcium you need daily, as well as some protein, potassium and vitamin B12. If you don’t like the taste of white milk, you can drink chocolate milk or other flavored milk such as strawberry, coconut or banana. Also, cow milk is very economical; it costs 25 cents per 8-ounce cup of milk, and it contributes more than $4 billion to the state’s economy. You’d be helping both your internal environment and your external environment by drinking cow milk.”

Parents: John and Jeanie Buckentine Town: Chaska Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s dairy farm where we milk about 55 Holsteins with a few Brown Swiss, Ayrshires and Jerseys. I plan to attend South Dakota State University this fall to study ag business.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them the best dairy product they can choose is the one they’re going to enjoy the most. If they’re not fond of a product, there are plenty more to choose from, and sure to be a perfect fit for them.

Parents: Mark and Julie Hesse Town: Cologne Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My family has a Holstein dairy farm, where we milk between 100-120 head, and have between 200-300 total animals on the farm. I’m an active member in the Southwest Megan Hesse, 18 Metro FFA Chapter, and I Dairy Star Sponsor: would like to go into busi- Bongards’ Creameries ness.

Norwood-Young

about which option he or she should choose? Choose the milk that is right for them and their family. They should buy the milk their family is going to drink before the expiration date. I would also make sure they know dairy milk is the best option because of the nine essential nutrients found in milk.

Parents: David and Tracy Marks Town: Cologne Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have been assisting on Buckentine Dairy ever since we merged our small jersey herd into Buckentine Dairy. I love spending time in the barn milking, feeding calves and doing Larisa Marks, 18 chores. It reminds me of Dairy Star Sponsor: being at the fair. In college, Bongards’ Creameries I am studying elementary Norwood-Young education. Hopefully, I can America, MN teach in a suburban/rural 952-277-5500 district where I can serve as a 4-H or FFA advisor.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The qualities I posses that I hope will make me an effective teacher are the same ones that make me a good dairy princess. I am patient, kind, a good listener, always open to learning new things, and America, MN What qualities do you love to share my knowledge and enthusiasm about the 952-277-5500 possess that make you dairy industry. My favorite part of the fair is talking a good dairy princess? I with visitors in the cow barn. I enjoy answering their have leadership skills, communication skills, a good questions and feel proud knowing I am providing serpublic image and the ability to promote dairy. vice by educating the public about dairy cattle and the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? What do you think is one of the most important The continuation of the consumption of dairy products. dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

Our bodies’ need for healthy and whole food is one of With so many options in the dairy case (including the most important messages to share with consumers. dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend In an era of fast food and nutritionally void junk food, about which option he or she should choose? The op- we need to reconnect with the life sustaining foods of tion that comes from the cow. It is actual milk, which is our ancestors, of which dairy is a huge component. not the same as alternatives, like almond milk.

For good health, we must properly nourish our bodies.

Dairy, in its many forms, is among the healthiest foods in the world.

Parents: Todd and Lois With so many options in the dairy case (including Manteuffel dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend Town: Cologne about which option he or she should choose? With so many options in the dairy case there are always goTell us about yourself, ing to be choices available to suit an individual’s perthe farm you live and/or sonal preference. I encourage people to find ways to work on, or your parents include dairy at every meal. For example, I eat yogurt work on, and your fuor cereal with milk for breakfast. For lunch, I almost alture plans. I am a senior ways include some sort of dairy product, such as cheese at Mayer Lutheran High or a delicious glass of cold milk. Dinner at our house School, and I live on a is made using real butter, cream and cheese. And of fifth-generation dairy farm course, don’t forget ice cream for dessert. in Cologne. I am very active in the family operation, and I enjoy my time Rebecca in the barn and doing other Manteuffel, 17 chores that go along with Dairy Star Sponsor: dairy farming. In the fuParents: Tim and Jenny Bongards’ Creameries ture, I plan to attend SouthHolt Norwood-Young west Minnesota State UniTown: Taylors Falls America, MN versity in Marshall for a 952-277-5500 degree in elementary eduTell us about yourself, cation. the farm you live and/ or work on, or your What qualities do you possess that make you a good parents work on, and dairy princess? I am knowledgeable about the dairy your future plans. I am industry, and I have good speaking and communication a freshman at the Uniskills. I enjoy talking with people about the dairy in- versity of Wisconsindustry, and I love being able to answer their questions. River Falls majoring in animal science with an What do you think is one of the most important equine management emdairy messages to share with consumers right now? phasis. I currently work Laura Holt, 18 One of the most important messages to share with the on DNA Dairy Inc. They Dairy Star Sponsor: consumers right now is the Dairy Three for Me pro- milk about 80 cows in Federated Co-op gram. This program emphasizes how important it is to a 10-swing parlor. On a Osceola, WI get three servings of dairy every day. I want to make normal workday, I feed 800-294-7661 sure all consumers know how important it is to get the calves and milk the three servings of milk, cheese or yogurt every single cows. Of course, no two day. days are exactly the same. The work that needs to be done on the farm varies from day to day. That’s With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend Chisago County continued on next page

Chisago County

Anna Buckentine, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Bongards’ Creameries Norwood-Young America, MN 952-277-5500

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe I possess the ability to relate to people. It’s one thing for someone to stand in front of you and tell you to consume three servings a dairy a day, but it’s something completely different when you have a conversation with a dairy princess on the health benefits of dairy.

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

Page 4 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017

Chisago County continued Chisago County continued one of my favorite aspects of working on the farm. It Parents: Heath and Amy keeps me on my toes.

Okerstrom Town: Chisago City What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? As a dairy princess, I am ac- Tell us about yourself, tive in and passionate about the dairy industry. I en- the farm you live and/ joy teaching others about the farm and how their food or work on, or your partravels from the farm to their plate. Many people do ents work on, and your not know where their food comes from, and I believe future plans. I work for it is important to know the hard work and care put into DNA Farms Inc. near producing dairy products, and the love farmers have Lindstrom. There, I milk for their animals. cows and feed calves. I am attending South Dakota What do you think is one of the most important State University for a dedairy messages to share with consumers right gree in dairy production Madison now? I believe one of the most important dairy mes- with a minor in agronomy.

Okerstrom, 19 sages consumers should hear is how healthy and im- With my degree, I hope Dairy Star Sponsor: portant dairy is in our diets. As a dairy princess, I pro- to go into reproduction or Federated Co-op mote Dairy 3 For Me. This is a campaign encouraging nutrition.

Osceola, WI people to consume at least three servings of dairy a 800-294-7661 day. This ensures they receive the essential nutrients What qualities do you found mainly in dairy products. possess that make you a good dairy princess? I didn’t grow up on a farm, so I With so many options in the dairy case (including really had to dig to find my passion in agriculture and dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend more specifically the dairy industry. I love being able about which option he or she should choose? With to share that passion with consumers and show them all the technology advances and the new trendy healthy all the hard work that goes into dairy farming. Teachliving, people are constantly looking for the healthiest ing, leading and advocating are some of the most reoptions when it comes to making meals. Many com- warding things, and I can do those things well when I panies have made alternatives to milk, such as soy am doing it for something that I love. and almond milk. Though they claim it tastes just like milk it does not possess the essential nutrients found What do you think is one of the most important in milk. These alternatives may look and taste like the dairy messages to share with consumers right real deal, but they cannot compete with the nutritional now? There has been such a push for antibiotic free value of real milk. milk and organic options, and I just want consumers to have a full understanding of what truly is in milk. All milk is antibiotic free and farmers work hard to keep Parents: Kevin and Tara milk wholesome and nutritious.

Lindahl Town: Lindstrom With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend Tell us about yourself, the about which option he or she should choose? I farm you live and/or work would tell my friend to pick dairy milk. It is the only on, or your parents work option that provides nine essential nutrients and isn’t on, and your future plans. fi lled with sugars or other ingredients. It is a pure, I am a junior at the Univerwholesome product. sity of Minnesota-Twin Cities where I am majoring in animal science with an emphasis in dairy production.

Parents: Andy and Laurie I intend to use my degree Spies to become a dairy nutrition- Madelin Lindahl, Town: Taylors Falls ist after my senior year in 20 St. Paul. I grew up on my Tell us about yourself, Dairy Star Sponsor: family’s farm in Lindstrom, the farm you live and/or Ellsworth Cooperative where I work when home work on, or your parents Creamery from school. work on, and your fuEllsworth, WI ture plans. I am a senior 715-273-4311 What qualities do you at Chisago Lakes High Federated Co-op possess that make you a School. After graduation, Osceola, WI good dairy princess? As a I will attend South Dakota 800-294-7661 dairy princess, I pride myState University to major self for being passionate, in animal science with a personable and willing to learn. This community is one I minor in dairy production. Shelby Spies, 17 have been a part of my entire life. Yet, as I near the end I have been working at Dairy Star Sponsor: of my degree, I know my graduation will not equal the DNA Farms Inc. for three Federated Co-op end of my learning. I enjoy continuing to learn about this years and help maintain Osceola, WI community. I am excited to share what I have learned calf care, mixing feed, 800-294-7661 and what I will learn. milking and sanitation.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Amidst a climate of ever-increasing concerns about our planet’s welfare, rest assured that dairy farmers are stewards of the land. It is imperative for consumers to understand how farmers dedicate their lives to producing food while caring for the environment necessary to make this food.

Dairying is carrying the lessons we have learned from the past into the present and future so we may continue to create such foods as nutritious as milk, cheese and yogurt.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? What a wonderful privilege to have so many options to choose from to get our daily three servings of dairy. Milk varies in creaminess, flavor and even the way farmers manage their dairy. I would advise anyone who contemplates a multitude of questions when faced with the dairy case to simply be sure they are choosing regular milk from exceptional cows. Remember, dairy alternatives do not compare nutritionally to true dairy. Whether the milk is skim or whole, conventional or organic, you will be choosing an exceptionally nutritious product.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I help promote the dairy industry throughout many ways by social media, school, booths or hands-on activities.

Dodge County Parents: Luke and Jill Elias Town: Mantorville Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My parents have a hog farm, and while growing up we had beef cows. In high school, I started working for some area dairy farms, including Durst Brothers Dairy. Hannah Elias, 18 I currently milk cows for Dairy Star Sponsor: Patrick O`Brien. This Durst Brothers summer I will be working - Alan, Kenny & Ron for Ryzebol Dairy, driving Mantorville, MN tractor and being ground507-421-2040 skeeper for their various properties. This fall, I will be attending the University of Wisconsin River-Falls for pre-vet with an emphasis on large animal and bovine.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I feel I am very sociable and outgoing. I love asking questions and learning new things.

I have a good work ethic, no matter the job. I have a passion for the dairy industry, and I am confident in my ability in making sure people are educated about dairy farming today.

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

I want consumers to be confident in the product they are purchasing. There are no antibiotics in dairy products. Milk is tested several times to ensure products are healthy and safe. Today, many people neglect to do their own research and believe what they hear or read.

I want to challenge people to think for themselves and truly learn about modern farm practices.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? The bottom line is milk and yogurt are the simplest and most basic products to buy in a dairy case. Almost all dairy products are produced at a local level and not imported. You can easily investigate what is in your dairy product. There is such of variety of products from chocolate milk, to cookies n` cream ice cream; individual choices are truly endless when perusing the dairy case.

Douglas County

Parents: Larry and Mary Kay Lund Town: Brandon Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am the youngest of five children in my family.

My family milks 53 cows.

We also have 135 ewes, feed out our steers, raise 1,200 broiler chickens and 150 laying hens, and farm Michelle Lund, 18 about 900 acres. On the Dairy Star Sponsor: farm, I feed calves, help my Land O’Lakes dad work with the sheep Melrose, MN and do field work. My hob320-256-7461 bies are dirt track racing on Friday nights in Fergus Falls, driving my short tracker and snowboarding. I plan to attend the University of Sioux Falls for education.

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

One of the most important messages to share with consumers right now is the misconception of the dairy industry. Many people throughout society believe everything they see on the Internet, especially videos from organizations that make it look like farmers abuse their animals. But, that’s not the truth. Also, another misconception is antibiotics in the milk. There are no antibiotics in the milk and if a cow is on antibiotics, What qualities do you possess that make you a then it goes in a separate tank and is not used for hu- good dairy princess? I am outgoing and enjoy trying man consumption. new things. I like to help people. I especially like working with children.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend What do you think is one of the most important about which option he or she should choose? I dairy messages to share with consumers right now? would tell that friend to follow what they think is right Most dairy farmers would enjoy answering questions and which one they are more passionate about, even if from consumers who do not quite understand the techothers don’t agree with their decision.

Douglas County continued on next page

Douglas County continued

East Otter Tail County continued

niques used daily for the animals’ well being. It is im- What qualities do you possess that make you a good portant because the general population is not involved dairy princess? I think in order to be a good reprein agriculture. sentative for any industry, a representative needs to be passionate about what he or she is representing. As With so many options in the dairy case (including a good dairy princess, I have that passion within me dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend for the dairy community and farmers. I also possess about which option he or she should choose? Milk the qualities of honesty, respectfulness, commitment is natural. We need it for our bones and our bodies. No and dependability. All these qualities will aid me in other product has all the benefits milk has, especially presenting the dairy industry in the best light possible. calcium, which is good for our bones, and many other nutrients.

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

Going to college in a metropolitan city, I have met many people who don’t drink milk on a consistent baParents: Gary and Beth sis. I ask them why and many of their responses are Sabolik something along the lines of not drinking it as a child.

Town: Kensington This got me thinking about the importance of habits. I think many of them would be drinking more milk now Tell us about yourself, the if their parents had helped enforce the healthy habit farm you live and/or work of drinking milk with meals. I want to remind parents on, or your parents work they play a huge role in the shaping of their children’s on, and your future plans. habits, and consuming dairy products is an important Our dairy farm is located habit to establish young. just outside Kensington, where we milk about 250 With so many options in the dairy case (including Holstein cows. I love bedairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend ing able to help with chores about which option he or she should choose? When and milking whenever I am it comes down to it, you buy what you can afford and home from school. In my Kiersten Sabolik, what you’re comfortable with. Some people only purspare time, I like to play 19 chase organic milk because they want to know the piano, run, read and spend Dairy Star Sponsor: farmers they are purchasing from don’t use chemicals time at the lake. I just finAgCountry Farm as part of their practices, while others maybe can’t ished my sophomore year Credit Services afford organic. The important thing, though, is that at the College of St. SchoDouglas County both organic and non-organic milk provide the same lastica in Duluth. I am ma320-763-3184 nutrients. When it comes to alternatives, I would enjoring in exercise physiolcourage them to drink real milk, but if they can’t, then ogy and pursuing the goal remind them to find other foods that provide the same of becoming a doctor of physical therapy. nutrients as milk.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a good communicator and a leader, which helps me interact with people across my county, Parents: Bob and sharing information about dairy and projecting a good Ramona Wippler image of the dairy community. I also have a passion for Town: Parkers Prairie dairy and for the agriculture industry having grown up on our dairy farm and around the hard working, caring Tell us about yourself, people that work in the industry. the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents What do you think is one of the most important dairy work on, and your future messages to share with consumers right now? One plans. I graduated from of the things many people worry about when choosing the University of Minnefoods, especially animal products, is if they are safe or sota-Twin Cities in May not. Consumers don’t have to worry about that when 2016 with a degree in aniserving dairy products to their families. Milk always gets mal science. After a sumpasteurized and thoroughly tested to make sure it is the mer internship, I returned best quality for consumption. Farmers give milk to their home to my family’s dairy Katherine Wippler, families, too, so we would never settle for less than a farm and have been here 23 perfectly safe and healthy product. since. My family milks Dairy Star Sponsor: 40 Holstein cows that we With so many options in the dairy case (including rotationally graze in the Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op of Urbank, MN dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend summer. No future plans 218-267-2401 about which option he or she should choose? How nu- have been made at this trition affects the human body absolutely fascinates me, time. I take and enjoy one and it’s why I’m so passionate about dairy and a career day at a time. in healthcare. Any type of alternative cannot match the nutrients in cow’s milk. And if that product claims it can, What qualities do you possess that make you a good there are many things that have been artificially added to dairy princess? I love working and being around it. Milk is nature’s super food. You really cannot beat the dairy cattle. They each have their own personalities nutritional value of it, which all occurs naturally. if you get the chance to know them. I also love all the delicious and nutritious dairy products made from the milk the cows I love produce. In addition, I like the opportunity to advocate the dairy industry each chance I get.

Parents: Bob and Ramona Wippler What do you think is one of the most important dairy Town: Parkers Prairie messages to share with consumers right now? An important message to convey to consumers is how imTell us about yourself, portant many dairy farm family’s lives are centered the farm you live and/or on their dairy farm and how much they care for all work on, or your parents their precious dairy cattle. work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at With so many options in the dairy case (including the University of Minnedairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about sota-Twin Cities studying which option he or she should choose? If asked what Spanish. I am involved in to get for a dairy product or substitute, I would just Catholic Students United opt for the original types. However, I would need (CSU) and Spanish & Pormore information of what they are looking to find, as tuguese Across Cultures Elizabeth Wippler, there are so many options and something for everyone Organization (SPACO). to use. There are low fat items, higher protein items, 19 My parents, my older sisand milk with lactase added, just to name a few.

Dairy Star Sponsor: ter, Katherine, and I milk around 40 head. During Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op of Urbank, MN the summer months, we 218-267-2401 rotationally graze our cows.

East Otter Tail County

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Parents: Victor and Janine Roers Town: Urbank

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Parkers Prairie High School. At school, I am involved in tennis, FFA, Minnesota Honor Society, theatre, knowledge bowl and speech. At my Grace Roers, 18 local church, I am a choir Dairy Star Sponsor: member, lector and youth Pro-Ag Farmers Co-op group president. I live on of Urbank, MN a small, second-genera218-267-2401 tion, family dairy farm.

We milk 28 Holsteins.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very invested in the dairy industry and have put in many hours to keep our family dairy farm running. I also love drinking a nice glass of cold milk on a warm summer day (and in the winter, too).

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

Not all farmers are bad. In fact, the vast majority of farmers are very nice and humane with their animals.

I have yet to meet a farmer who doesn’t care about his or her animals. I doubt I will ever meet one. I feel a lot of people do not consume dairy products because they feel bad because the cows are being mistreated, but this is not the case.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Go for the real stuff. Do not get dairy alternatives unless you have to. Drinking and eating real dairy products have the best benefits for you.

Fillmore County Parents: Doug Heather Hopp Town: Chatfield

and

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My dad is currently the herdsman on Sass Dairy Farms, where I have lived and completed assigned chores since age 7. I am a student at South Abby Hopp, 19 Dakota State University Dairy Star Sponsor: where I am majoring in Kappers Big Red dairy production and agBarn, Inc. ricultural communicaChatfield, MN tions. With this educa507-867-3556 tion, I hope to work in a public relations, advocacy or marketing aspect of a dairy company and do my best to make a difference in the future of agriculture.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Growing up on a dairy farm and being active in 4-H and FFA, I have gained both leadership skills as well as knowledge of the dairy industry that will greatly benefit me in serving as a dairy princess. This includes marketing products to consumers at the farmers markets, influencing members at chapter visits, and confidence. My knowledge of the dairy industry and background in communicating will make a difference in my time as dairy princess.

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

Why? Farmers love what they do and work at it with all their heart. Dairy products are healthy, nutritious products available to consumers every day. I feel it is important to share the benefits of these products and Fillmore County continued on next page

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why they are essential to a person’s daily life. Farm- Parents: Gary and Sandy ers serve everyone in the community producing this Wee product. I think it is important to show that love and Town: Spring Valley service.

Tell us about yourself, With so many options in the dairy case (including the farm you live and/or dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend work on, or your parents about which option he or she should choose? There work on, and your future are many options for dairy products available to con- plans. I work on a 400sumers today. As a dairy producer, it is our job to pro- cow dairy farm. We have a duce a healthy, nutritious product for the consumer. double-12 parallel parlor.

Each dairy option has positive benefits and will leave We milk three shifts per your body with positive results regardless of the prod- day, each shift with two uct. Each person has personal favorites and because employees working. My of the nutritious benefits of all dairy products, there is future plans are not fully Makala Nauman, not a wrong option. decided, but I am looking 18 into becoming a vet tech.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Currently, I am working Hongerholt Consulting Parents: Todd and Stacy on the farm almost every St. Charles, MN Leiding day of the week.

507-450-0707 Town: Fountain What qualities do you Tell us about yourself, possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am the farm you live and/or very passionate about dairy cows. Never growing up work on, or your parents on a dairy farm, yet working at one for two years, has work on, and your futruly opened my eyes up on how incredible farmers ture plans. On our family are. I want to educate the community on how much farm, Shir-man Registered effort and time farmers put in to care for their own Holsteins, we milk around passion.

65 registered Holsteins in a tiestall barn. In addition What do you think is one of the most important to dairy cattle, we farm dairy messages to share with consumers right around 360 acres of al- Haely Leiding, 20 now? Farmers put in so much time and commitment falfa, corn and soybeans. to caring for the animals they love every day. FarmDairy Star Sponsor: I am finishing my sophoers dedicate their time to making sure the milk they AMPI more year at the Universiare providing is safe and a high quality. Farmers have Rochester Division ty of Minnesota-Twin Cittheir cows checked daily by vets and have top quality www.ampi.com ies where I am majoring care for the cows on their farm. in agricultural education and minoring in animal With so many options in the dairy case (including science. My professional goal is to be a high school dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor. about which option he or she should choose? Dairy milk is a great choice. Anyone is able to visit a farm What qualities do you possess that make you a to see how the milk is produced daily. Non-dairy milk good dairy princess? I love to communicate a posi- does not have the same amount of nutrient value as tive image for the dairy community by telling my per- regular dairy. Dairy milk also has a very short ingredisonal stories from growing up on a dairy farm and ent list compared to non-dairy products. The ingredibeing the face for other dairy farmers. I also love to ents are simple. 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 Parents: Matthew and because it has made me who I am today.

Sharon Wangen What do you think is one of the most important Town: Albert Lea dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The most important dairy message to share Tell us about yourself, right now is the importance of including enough dairy the farm you live and/or foods in our diet. I want everyone to know that eating work on, or your parents dairy foods leads to countless health benefits and also work on, and your future helps support the dairy community. There are many plans. I live on a small people in the community who are involved in the pro- dairy farm with my parents duction of dairy foods ranging from dairy farmers to and brother. Our family farm has gone through five milk truck drivers and dairy processors. generations of dairy farmWith so many options in the dairy case (including ers. We milk around 40 dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend cows and raise all our own Rachel Wangen, 18 about which option he or she should choose? I replacement heifers. My Dairy Star Sponsor: would inform my friend how cows milk is packed full favorite thing to do on the Laura Seljan of important nutrients including calcium, potassium farm is help with feeding Photography and protein, which keeps us healthy and happy. With calves. I hope to always Kasson, MN cows milk, there are the same amount of nutrients be involved in the family 507-250-2217 in every glass, in every brand and from every store. dairy and help promote the There are many options of cows milk to chose from to best industry there is. meet everyone’s needs and desires.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love to educate people on the benefits of the dairy industry. I believe it is my job as a 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 to our daily health, and it’s my job as the Freeborn County Dairy Princess to inform my community of the benefits of these wholesome products.

Freeborn County

Freeborn County continued With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them to choose the true dairy products. Dairy alternatives do not have the same amount of important nutrients that are in true dairy products. True dairy products are a more natural and healthy way to go than choosing imitation products.

Goodhue County Parents: Travis Lange and Christina Betcher Town: Bellechester Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work for my aunt and uncle, Shane and Casey Holst, on their 200-cow dairy farm. My future plans are to attend Southwest Minnesota State University for agricultural Shelby Betcher, 18 education and minor in Dairy Star Sponsor: agronomy.

Gerkens Feed & Grain,

Zumbrota 507-732-7691

What qualities do you Wabasha 651-345-5050 possess that make you Lake City 651-345-5050 a good dairy princess? I have a FFA and 4-H background that I feel will help me be a good advocate for the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? No animals are mistreated during the collection of dairy and consumers may be misinformed.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Almond milk has many non-natural ingredients. Most of them you shouldn’t be putting in your body because they are unhealthy for you.

Parents: Craig and Connie Duden Town: Red Wing Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans.

I live on an 80-cow dairy just south of Red Wing.

At school, I participate in National Honor Society, Math League, Knowledge Bowl and Circle of Friends (where I plan activities for and spend time with special education students in the high school). I also play piano and help on the farm. I plan to attend Winona State University after graduation, where I hope to do something related to science and research.

Emily Duden, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: Midwest Livestock Systems Pine Island, MN 507-356-8349

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My experience growing up on a dairy farm has shown me the virtues of the dairy industry, and I don’t intend to let those virtues go unspoken for. That experience, paired with my ability to speak out for the causes I believe in, will allow me to promote the dairy industry confidently and truthfully.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Across social media, I often see dairy farms portrayed as factories run by detached farmers. However, the vast majority of dairy farms are family run, and all dairy farmers care deeply about their animal’s health and wellbeing. It is important for consumers to know that when they eat dairy, they are supporting hard working farmers who do their best to ensure their animal’s health.

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

That it’s important to have three servings of dairy products every day. Dairy products have many important nutrients needed for bone health. Dairy products provide nutrients that are vital for health and body maintenance. Some of these major nutrients are calcium and potassium. Everyone should have at least three servings With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy of dairy products a day to improve their health and reHennepin County continued on next page ceive proper nutrients.

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alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? When it comes to dairy alternatives, there is no standard nutrient profile, so the nutrition you receive could vary dramatically between brands. Dairy is the healthier option, as it always has the same essential nutrients, despite the brand, and much less ingredients. Milk, cheese and yogurt are excellent options, and low to non-fat varieties of all of these are available if fat or cholesterol intake are an issue.

where I will be doing work in feed sales and a project ents. Keeping dairy in one’s diet will make the person with microbial feeds. healthier and more active. Trying to consume dairy three times a day is the easiest way to keep track of What qualities do you possess that make you a dairy intake and try different dairy products. good dairy princess? Something that makes me a good dairy princess is that I have grown up working on the farm and being involved in all the processes of dairy production. I have learned a lot about things like animal nutrition and reproduction, not only through Parents: Matt and Pam school, but also hands-on by working on the farm. Hendel Having chores to do every day has also made me a Town: Caledonia responsible and hard working person who appreciates Tell us about yourself, farmers and all they do for their communities. the farm you live and/or What do you think is one of the most important work on, or your parents dairy messages to share with consumers right work on, and your funow? One thing that has been popping up in the news ture plans. I am the fifth lately is the fear of antibiotics being in the milk we generation on my famdrink. Many people believe this to be true, when in ily’s farm where we milk fact it is far from it. It is not legal to sell milk that 360 Holsteins and Brown contains antibiotics and the industry tests for antibi- Swiss. My dad and uncle otics starting before the driver even pumps the bulk operate the farm together, tank into the milk truck. The milk you drink does not and I hope to someday join Lauren Hendel, 19 the partnership and farm contain antibiotics, nor will it ever.

Dairy Star Sponsor: with them. After gradua- Bob Lange Consulting, With so many options in the dairy case (including tion, I hope to obtain a job ANC - Agri Nutrition dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend within the dairy industry Consulting about which option he or she should choose? Many where I can work closely Caledonia, MN people are concerned with the fat content in milk, with producers and their 507-450-6610 and there are many alternatives to milk that claim to cattle to gain more experibe healthier. While some of these alternatives might ence until I return home. compare in certain nutritional aspects, milk is still the best option for overall nutrition. The calcium and vi- What qualities do you possess that make you a tamin D milk offers is essential, especially in growing good dairy princess? Qualities I posses that make children. Plus, milk tastes delicious and goes along me a good dairy princess are my listening abilities and being passionate about dairy. Living in the Twin Citgreat with a lot of great foods. ies, I have had many opportunities to chat with consumers about dairy products and production, which I always enjoy. By listening, I can hear their concerns Parents: John and Staci and communicate positively. Being passionate allows Scherber me to easily talk with consumers about dairy, and they Town: Rogers can sense my excitement about the topic.

Parents: Troy Rechtzigel and Kathy Ryan Town: Wanamingo Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. Even though my parents got divorced when I was young, I spend most of my time helping my dad on a dairy farm just southwest of Wanamingo, while my mom lives in town. On Kate Rechtzigel, 18 the farm, my dad, brothers Dairy Star Sponsor: and I work together to milk Ag Partners about 60 Holstein, Jersey Goodhue, MN and crossbred cows. Next 651-923-4496 year, I plan to attend the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities and double major in animal science and journalism, so that I can achieve my dream of working on my family’s dairy farm, as well as write about my agricultural experiences for publications.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? By growing up on my family’s dairy farm, I have been able to develop knowledge and passion for dairy farming. Through my participation in extracurricular activities like speech team, I have also been able to improve my public speaking skills in order to become an advocate for dairy farmers. Together, Tell us about yourself, these qualities make me a great dairy princess who isn’t the farm you live and/ afraid to share the story behind a glass of milk. or work on, or your parents work on, and your What do you think is one of the most important future plans. I am a judairy messages to share with consumers right now? nior at the University of Dairy farmers are committed to providing safe, high Wisconsin-River Falls quality milk. In fact, 98 percent of U.S. dairy farms majoring in dairy science. are family owned and operated. This means everyone I grew up on my family’s on the family dairy farm is passionate and dedicated to dairy farm in Rogers, and providing you with that safe, wholesome and nutritious have continued work- Quinci Scherber, glass of milk. Consumers need to hear the true story ing there while studying.

23 behind their nutritious dairy products, so they can feel I plan on working there Dairy Star Sponsor: reassured dairy farmers are dedicated to providing them after school, assisting in Munson Lakes Nutrition with safe, wholesome and nutritious dairy products ev- herd management and Howard Lake, MN ery day. dairy production. I would 320-543-2561 love to start an ice cream With so many options in the dairy case (including parlor, as well, in order to dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend share the farm experience about which option he or she should choose? I would with those who are not able to have one. tell my friend that he or she should always choose to get three servings of dairy everyday because milk contains What qualities do you possess that make you a only three ingredients and provides nine essential nutri- good dairy princess? I have a deep passion for the ents. Milk alternatives may contain up to 10 ingredients dairy industry as it has made me the person I am toand may only provide a nutrient or two. day. I have grown up having the farm as my home and forming my choices around it. I want to share this love for dairy farming with those I meet as many close to home do not have that farm experience. Not only do I have this passion, but also I am very much at ease conversing with anyone and any size crowd. I have Parents: Jeff and Shelley had many opportunities to share about the dairy inBursch dustry and am excited to have more chances to share Town: Greenfield this love. I believe in what dairy farmers do and am honored to represent them this year.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ What do you think is one of the most important or work on, or your pardairy messages to share with consumers right ents work on, and your now? I think it is important to reiterate just how imfuture plans. I live and portant dairy products are for a strong healthy body. work on my family’s dairy There are always new products advertised that seem farm where we milk about like the newest, greatest choice for health. But in real50 cows. Our herd is all ity, dairy cannot be replaced. It offers so much in just Black and White Holone product that allows an individual to be strong and steins, with a few Red and healthy.

White Holsteins. I attend Sydney Bursch, 19 the University of WisconWith so many options in the dairy case (including Dairy Star Sponsor: sin-River Falls, majoring dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend Federated Coop in dairy science manageabout which option he or she should choose? Dairy Albertville, MN ment. I have an internship is irreplaceable. With all the nutrients milk provides, 763-497-2122 through Land O’Lakes/ it is an extremely important part of one’s diet. One Purina at Munson Lakes can receive nine nutrients in one product compared Nutrition in Howard Lake, to consuming nine products for each one of the nutri-

Hennepin County

Hennepin County continued

Houston County

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? One of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now is dairy care. With the social media we have today, we need farmers showing the positivity that comes from the dairy community.

This will continue to be very important in the future.

We need to work as a team to show that farmers’ No. 1 priority is taking care of their animals, and working hard every day to ensure their cows are comfortable.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Attending the University of Minnesota, I have had many opportunities to discuss this topic with others. I always explain the benefits of drinking real milk that comes from cows as opposed to milk alternatives.

Milk is a local product that provides nine essential nutrients in just one glass, and what better way is there to fuel your body. The benefits that real milk gives are hard to beat.

Isanti County

Parents: Stacey Sjostedt and the late Wade Harding Town: Cambridge

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Cambridge-Isanti High School. I participate in the high school trap league and 4-H. This fall, I will attend Anoka-Ramsey Community College on the Cam- Ashley Harding, 18 bridge campus. I started Dairy Star Sponsor: working at Haubenschilds’ Fluegge’s Ag dairy farm when I was 15 Mora, MN years old. They milk about 320-679-2981 1,000 cows. I have fallen deeply in love with the dairy industry and showing their animals.

Kandiyohi County continued on next page

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Kanabec County

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Having good social skills and Parents: Peter and Stacy connections with people.

Ripka Town: Ogilvie What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right Tell us about yourself, now? Dairy products are 100 percent antibiotic free, the farm you live and/or and the dairy products consumers buy are the best of work on, or your parents quality. work on, and your future plans. I live on RipWith so many options in the dairy case (including ka Dairy Family Farm. We dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend milk 200 Holstein cows about which option he or she should choose? That and farm 700 acres. I am milk straight from a cow is way better than an almond. very involved with farm Drinking real milk is way better for you and contains life. Whether it’s waking the nine essential nutrients we need. up at 3 a.m. to milk, feed- Adrianna Ripka,19 ing a newborn fresh colosDairy Star Sponsor: trum or spreading manure Parent: Kristy Murray Federated Co-op in the fields. No matter Town: North Branch Princeton, MN what it may be, there is 800-638-8228 nothing like working toTell us about yourself, gether with my family. the farm you live and/or My future plans are becoming a surgical technician work on, or your parents through St. Cloud Technical and Community College work on, and your future while still working on the farm. plans. I live on my grandparents’ farm, and I work What qualities do you possess that make you a for the neighboring dairy good dairy princess? I believe in all our products. I farm, Diamond S Farm love nothing more than educating the public and be(Skiba’s Jerseys). My ing an advocate for the dairy industry. position on the farm includes milking 160 cows What do you think is one of the most important in a double-5 herringbone McKenna Tindal, dairy messages to share with consumers right parlor, checking the ma19 now? Dairy farmers are committed to producing ternity pen and taking care Dairy Star Sponsor: wholesome, safe and nutritious milk. of calves as needed. I have striven to learn more about Mille Lacs Veterinary Clinic With so many options in the dairy case (including the dairy industry because Dr. Chris Nord, dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend of my employment and Milaca, MN about which option he or she should choose? Milk am proud to say I became 320-983-6303 is the No. 1 option because it only has three ingredia dairy princess to support ents and nine essential nutrients. Other dairy alternathe industry further. tives may include many more ingredients.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am new to the dairy princess program, but that may be one of my best qualities since I am eager to learn and teach what I have learned and will be learning in the future. I am a good listener and my attention to detail will aid me in relay- Parents: Brian and ing information in a strong supportive manner of the Bridget Engstrom dairy industry.

Town: Renville

Kandiyohi County

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The most important message I would share with consumers today is that dairy products are the healthiest and most natural options for the body. The dairy alternatives are full of ingredients that are almost impossible to pronounce while dairy products have clean and clear labeling to show the simple ingredients within them, and are among the cleanest, nutrient-rich foods found at the store.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would touch on the importance that consuming three dairy products, not dairy alternatives, is the healthiest for the body. I would explain I have pledged to consume three servings of dairy products by taking the Dairy 3 For Me pledge, because not only is there a wide variety of products, but the labels are cleaner and dairy milk contains more calcium than alternative beverages, aiding in stronger bones.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my parents’ 160-cow dairy farm. My responsibilities include milking cows, feeding calves and operating equipment. I plan to attend South Da- Brooke Engstrom, kota State University to 18 major in dairy production.

Dairy Star Sponsor: After graduating from colWillmar Farm Center lege, I plan to return home Willmar, MN to be in partnership with 320-235-8123 my father on our family dairy farm. Once my dad retires, I plan to take over, operate and expand our farm as a fifth-generation dairy farmer with the help from my younger brother.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The qualities that make me a good dairy princess include leadership, passion and commitment. As captain on my volleyball and dance teams in high school, along with currently being the president of my FFA chapter and the vice president of my 4-H club, I have developed leadership skills I can apply towards being an excellent dairy princess.

Through my commitment on my family’s dairy farm, I have a passion for promoting the dairy industry to my community.

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

The most important message to share with consumers right now is the importance of consuming three dairy products a day as part of your daily diet. Average daily intake for young children ages 1-3 meets recommendations. However, after this age, intake declines and persist at low levels for adults of all ages.

Kandiyohi County continued With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Other products sold as milk made from plants, such as rice, almond, coconut and soy, may contain calcium, but are not included in the dairy group because their overall nutrient content is not similar to dairy milk. Hence, I would tell a friend that he or she should have a natural product versus a man-made product because it is better for your health.

Parents: Rod and Naomi Lindquist Town: Kerkhoven Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at the University of North Dakota studying airport management. I got into aviation watching cropdusters spraying fields and thought it was Korissa Lindquist, a cool part of agriculture.

19 My dream job is to manDairy Star Sponsor: age a small municipal airLake Henry Implement port in the agriculture secLake Henry, MN tor. My family owns and 320-243-7411 operates a 120-cow dairy near Kerkhoven. My job on the farm is to milk cows and feed the bottle calves, young heifers and bulls after milking.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I think a strong quality I have that makes me a good dairy princess is being able to speak in public confidently. I love sharing the dairy message to people everywhere I go. I love going to elementary schools and giving fun, interactive messages about dairy. It is so fun to teach people new things that are happening in their community. Advocating for the dairy industry is a very rewarding activity.

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

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Ultimately, the choice depends on their body and whether they have intolerances to dairy, and if that is the case, there are many lactose-free dairy options out there for them to choose. These also include dairy alternatives like coconut, almond, soy and flax milk. But, I would help find the best dairy product for them and their body.

Parents: Jeff and Tammie Paulson Town: Atwater Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s fourth-generation dairy farm outside of Atwater. On our farm we milk roughly 50 Milking Shorthorn dairy cows year round. On the farm, Morgan Paulson, I am responsible for milk17 ing cows, feeding all of Dairy Star Sponsor: the animals, watering all Harvest Bank the animals, bedding aniAtwater, MN mals, fencing, and clean320-974-8861 ing of all cattle pens. In the future, I plan to attend the University of Wisconsin- River Falls to study dairy science with a minor Kandiyohi County continued on next page

Kandiyohi County continued in agriculture business. With this degree I hope to become a dairy cattle nutritionist and hopefully someday come back and take over the family farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? One quality I believe I have that makes me a good dairy princess is having the ability to talk to literally anyone. Whether I’m talking to people about the dairy industry or simply just talking to them in general. I love talking to people and asking them what they know about the dairy industry or about farming and also ask them if there is anything they’d like to know.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I believe one of the most important messages to share with consumers is that real milk is still one of the healthiest foods that you can consume. The reason why I believe this is so important is because drinking real milk provides essential nutrients your body needs on a daily bases.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? What I would tell my friends is that real dairy products are some of the best things for your body. Without having your real dairy products, you will be missing out on essential nutrients from those dairy products. I also believe that if you are allergic to the products to use the alternatives so that you are still receiving some of the nutrition.

Parents: Jan and Jolene Zuidema Town: Blomkest Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at MACCRAY High School. My parents own and operate a 60-cow tiestall dairy farm. I am very involved in helping run the farm. My family raises only registered Holsteins and in the summer we do a bit of showing. Though I love farm life, I will be pursuing a major in either pre-med or nursing at South Dakota State University in the fall.

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

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Growing up on a dairy farm, I have learned a lot about tenacity and about putting time into what I care about. Also, 4-H and showing has taught me how to present myself when eyes are on me. I will use the discipline and showmanship I learned from an early age to represent my county.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Right now, as an industry I think it is important we communicate the health behind our products to our consumers. With a fresh healthy mindset overcoming our country, dairy products are often labeled too high in fat to fit into a low calorie diet. As producers, it is necessary to inform our customers that the fat, along with the vitamins, minerals and protein, in dairy products is beneficial and necessary for the maintenance of muscle condition and overall health.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Being someone very interested in studying medicine and the human body, I have learned a lot about how synthetic ingredients found in many dairy alternatives work against our bodies. Sticking to natural and wholesome foods keeps artificial flavors and colors out of our systems. Freeing your body from these detrimental elements is much healthier and supports the livelihood of local farmers.

Le Sueur County

Parents: Mike and Tina Stiles Town: Lakeville

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on Cindy and Ray Deutsch’s dairy farm in Elko New Market. This past January they had a barn fire killing all 65 cows in the barn.

It was such a devastating Laura Stiles, 18 tragedy for the farmers Dairy Star Sponsor: and myself. Thankfully, Werner Implement all the calves were saved Vermillion, MN so I help feed calves and 651-437-4435 do many other chores on the farm. I will be attending South Dakota State University this fall doubling majoring in public relations and apparel merchandising.

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017 • Page 9

Le Sueur County continued

them to look into and to see which one may fit best for them and their lifestyle.

Parents: Patty Traxler, Brian and Heather Traxler Town: Le Center

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have had the chance to work alongside my mother for the last 10 years as she manages a 1,200-cow Jersey farm.

While working there, I have found my passion for Samantha Traxler, dairy, and now I co-own 18 20 cows of six different Dairy Star Sponsor: breeds with my brother, Lonsdale Feed Mill Nathan. Once I’m done Lonsdale, MN with college, my dream is 507-744-2367 to co-own and operate a What qualities do you possess that make you a good farm with my brother. dairy princess? As a county dairy princess I possess leadership skills, a passion for the dairy industry, and What qualities do you possess that make you a enjoy teaching others about the dairy industry. good dairy princess? Qualities I provide as a dairy princess are my vast leadership skills and experience, What do you think is one of the most important my passion for the industry, my speaking skills, and dairy messages to share with consumers right my different perspective of the industry since I grew now? An important message to share with consum- up working on a dairy farm instead of living on one. ers about the dairy industry is that dairy farmers work hard each and every day to make sure their cows are What do you think is one of the most important happy and healthy. Dairy farmers make sure all dairy dairy messages to share with consumers right products are the best for the consumers. now? I believe one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers is to tell them not to be With so many options in the dairy case (including afraid to ask questions. Today in social media I think dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend consumers see more negative news about our industry about which option he or she should choose? I than positive. So, by sharing our stories and letting would tell a friend they should choose chocolate milk consumers ask questions, we, as producers, are edubecause it gives them the calcium and protein they cating them with the correct information. need after a tough workout.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I Parents: Lloyd and Diane would tell my friend to try and fit it into their diet by Tiede adding dairy products to their meals, having chocolate Town: Le Center milk after working out, and taking a snack on the go.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman attending the University of Parents: Mike and Teresa Minnesota-Crookston for Drietz agricultural education. On Town: Canby my family’s farm we milk Holstein cows. I do a variety of things ranging from Adrianna Tiede, 18 Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ feeding the calves to drivDairy Star Sponsor: or work on, or your paring the tractor in the fields, River Country ents work on, and your and anything in between.

Cooperative future plans. I live on A big thing I’ve learned Hastings, MN a third-generation dairy from working on the farm 651-437-3527 farm where I’ve helped is how to efficiently work my dad milk cows since in a group to accomplish I was a little girl. I never things. knew how far living on a What qualities do you possess that make you a farm would take me today, Catherine Drietz, 19 good dairy princess? Some qualities I possess that but my sister, Morgyn, make me a good dairy princess are that I’m passion- and I now own our own Dairy Star Sponsor: ate about the dairy industry and I enjoy being able dairy herd in which we Gorter’s Clay and to share information and help others to get informed are currently trying to exDairy Equipment about it. Being a member of 4-H, FFA and CFFA has pand. My future plans in Pipestone, MN made me comfortable with speaking to people about the dairy industry would 507-825-3271 various topics. I am and will always be very proud to be to continue to grow our herd and pay off our loans. be representing Minnesota’s dairy farmers.

Lincoln County

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers is to let them know that if they have any questions do not be afraid to ask a farmer. Farmers are willing to help get a better understanding of something. Farmers enjoy keeping others informed and helping them understand.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell my friend that there are many options for

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love to help. I love volunteering throughout the community and advocating for the dairy industry. As a dairy farmer, I have a pretty good knowledge about how the industry works and what people could do to make it better.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? One problem I have been hearing lately is that people don’t like to drink milk as they think it is unhealthy for their lifestyle. I think it’s important for Lincoln County continued on next page

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Meeker County

people to know that milk has a high nutritional value for lots of people, which can help provide people en- Parents: Scott and Denise ergy, fight off diseases and even grow healthy hair, Gathje bones and muscles.

Town: Richmond With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I think everyone should choose to eat cheese. Many people love it and it is a garnish for many popular food dishes. It’s healthy for people especially people who are watching their caloric consumption.

McLeod County Parents: Kari and David Swanson Town: Hutchinson Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a sixthgeneration dairy farmer, and am excited about my herd of 28 registered Holsteins and four Brown Swiss. I am employed at Howe Holsteins, where I Sierra Swanson, am a relief milker. I also 19 work at KurthKine Farms Dairy Star Sponsor: where my animals are Bongards’ Creameries housed. I make all manNorwood-Young agement decisions for my America, MN herd of cows. Future plans 952-277-5500 include being a dairy farm manager specializing in dairy production, including animal nutrition, cow care and reproduction.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The future of dairy is my passion; I want to see it thrive by advocating and sharing my skilled knowledge with consumers. Having excellent organizational and communication skills (both verbally and written) will help me share my story with consumers. I have a positive and energetic attitude, and great interpersonal skills. I exhibit a strong work ethic, am self-motivated, flexible and reliable.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Eden Valley-Watkins High School where I am involved in FFA, National Honor Society, student council, school newspaper and softball. I am also Katherine Gathje, in 4-H and Minnesota Ju18 nior Holstein Association.

Dairy Star Sponsor: In addition to living on AgVenture my family’s 70-cow dairy Feed & Seed Inc. farm, I work on a dairy Watkins, MN farm where we milk 130 320-764-9910 cows. This fall I will be attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to major in agricultural communications and marketing.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a very sincere and genuine person. I love to share with people the real happenings of the dairy community. I am truly passionate about dairy farming believe it is one of the most important parts of agriculture.

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

It is important to focus on animal care. Dairy farming is a very unique occupation where someone has to be there for the animals almost 24/7. It is good to show consumers the high level of care farmers put into maintaining healthy animals. Animal quality is one of the most important pieces of a dairy farm because all other parts of the farm branch off of healthy animals.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? We can never go wrong with the real deal. It is important to take advantage of the high quality nutrients offered only by real milk. Some may find a flavored option such as chocolate or strawberry can help harness the benefits of milk with a fun taste. No matter how we choose to enjoy our beverages we can count on the What do you think is one of the most important fact that they will always be 100 percent nutritious and dairy messages to share with consumers right now? delicious.

The phrase “Are there antibiotics in milk?” seems to be a concern of the misinformed public. Consumers are not aware of the hard work and strict standards Parents: Jim and Lisa that go into producing high quality milk. Animals are Turck only given antibiotics when they are sick, just like hu- Town: Litchfield mans. Dairy farmers are dedicated and responsible, they follow withdrawal guidelines, and all milk is Tell us about yourself, sampled at the farm and the processing plant to ensure the farm you live and/or it is free of antibiotics or other contaminants. work on, or your parents work on, and your fuWith so many options in the dairy case (including ture plans. I am a senior dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend at Litchfield High School. about which option he or she should choose? All I am involved in FFA, dairy products are a wise decision in making your Peanut Butter and Milk, lifestyle healthy. They are one of the most affordable Dragonaires, National sources of nutrition at the grocery store, an 8-ounce Honor Society and swimserving of milk is just 25 cents. It only takes milk ming. I also am a Sunday Rachel Turck, 18 about 48 hours to get from the cow to the store, mak- school teacher and particiDairy Star Sponsor: ing it one of the freshest products in the store. Milk pate in the church choir.

Center Bank also has nine essential nutrients in greater quantities My chores are feeding Litchfield, MN when compared with a milk alternative. calves, milking and other 320-693-3255 miscellaneous activities.

On my farm we milk 55 Holsteins. Next year, I plan to attend Ridgewater College for farm operation and management. After that I will return to the family farm.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am able to start up a conversation with anyone. I love meeting new people and listening to their stories. Being a Sunday school teacher, I have learned how to interact more with children and be able to spread the word about dairy.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? One thing that is important is showing how the milk in the store gets on the shelf and the process of the milk getting there. This is important because it

Meeker County continued shows that milk is not touched by humans. Also, it shows how the milk is pasteurized for safety.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them in a heartbeat that they should not choose the dairy alternatives because dairy alternatives have more ingredients compared to milk, cheese and yogurt. I would explain to them all the benefits of true dairy foods and why they are more nutritious for their body.

Parents: John and Carol Warren Town: Watkins Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. In the fall I will continue my education at the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities where I will study agriculture communications and marketing with a minor in Ashley Warren, 19 animal science. I am also Dairy Star Sponsor: the third generation on Center Bank my family’s 140-Holstein Litchfield, MN dairy farm where my fa320-693-3255 ther and uncle own and operate R-L Acres Dairy.

Here, we also crop farm around 700 acres of corn, soybeans, alfalfa and oats.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? A quality I possess as a dairy princess is my ability to talk to anyone about any kind of topic, especially dairy. I find myself being able to connect with consumers by answering any questions they have about the dairy community and sharing my stories with them. Being able to make connections with people, especially consumers, is a vital role for us involved in the dairy community.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? That dairy farmers really care about what they do. This means caring for their animals and the land they farm, which ultimately results in producing a great product. We need to get consumers to see that dairy farming is more than a business. It’s a way of life for farm families, and anyone who puts in that much time and passion into what they do every day must really care about the product they produce.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Milk is the most pure and simple option out there. It contains nine essential nutrients we need every day. In order to get all these nutrients, a person would have to eat 10 cups of raw spinach, six servings of pinto beans or three cups of cooked broccoli. Dairy alternatives usually contain several added ingredients to mimic what milk naturally offers. Plus, milk is the most affordable option per gallon.

Morrison County continued on next page

Morrison County

Parents: Paul and Michelle Athmann Town: Little Falls

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on my uncle’s third generation dairy farm, Andora Dairy, where they milk 90 cows. I plan to attend the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities, but my major is still undecided.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have great communication skills that I am able to use when promoting the dairy industry.

Kristen Athmann, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Modern Farm Equipment Pierz, MN 320-468-2161

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy products are wholesome goods that are filled with vital nutrients that all people can benefit from.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would advise them to look for the “Real Seal” on any dairy product they could potentially buy.

Parents: Patrick and Kristine Blonigen Town: Bowlus Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My family operates a small dairy farm outside Upsala. We milk Holsteins in a 34-cow tiestall barn along with farming crops. This fall, I will be attending Winona State University for nursing.

Samantha Blonigen, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: What qualities do you Elmdale Creamery possess that make you Elmdale, MN a good dairy princess? I 320-573-2607 have the social skills necessary to be a dairy princess. I like to be around people, and I’m friendly and easy to talk to. I am passionate about learning and teaching others. I will be a good representative of the dairy industry because I know how important it is.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Consumers need to know animals are treated well on farms. They need the opportunity to see how a farm works so they can realize what happens on a farm, and to ensure they don’t have any misconceptions about how a farm really works. Farmers want to treat their animals well. A dairy farmer’s animals are his or her way of life and they guarantee their animals are being treated well.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose?

Many people think non-dairy alternatives are better for them, but that is not the case. Dairy milk consists of nine vitamins and minerals essential to a person’s diet. Many non-dairy alternatives contain additives and can be very processed, whereas dairy products are very natural and wholesome. Dairy products are necessary for a healthy and well balanced diet.

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Morrison County continued

Parents: Steve and Joyce Kahl Town: Pierz

care of them.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My family owns a dairy farm in Buckman Township that consists of 485 acres and a dairy herd of 170. We milk in a double-8 parallel parlor. I have one brother, Hannah Kahl, 18 Travis, 24, who farms Dairy Star Sponsor: with my parents. I help Sunrise Ag out with the milking and Buckman, MN the newborn calves when 800-307-5346 needed. I attend school in Pierz and will graduate on May 26. My future plans are to attend St. Cloud State University to pursue a degree in elementary education.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I like to meet and talk to people, and I especially love dealing with kids. I also have the dedication to promote the dairy industry as it’s been a part of me my whole life. I want people to know that I’m proud to be a farmer’s daughter.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would suggest my friend purchase chocolate milk. After work, chocolate milk helps energize with its extra sugars. If my friend is looking for a nice cold glass of milk, I’d suggest whole milk. I think it tastes the best and fills you up.

Mower County Parents: Marlin Beckmann and Stacia Pudenz Town: Rose Creek Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on a dairy farm milking around 300 cows. I also work with calves and do other small farm tasks. I am involved in 4-H, FFA Morgan Beckmann, and trap shooting. I love 17 showing cattle and being Dairy Star Sponsor: on the farm. I plan to atStory Sales and Service tend South Dakota State Faribault, MN University this fall for 800-491-3724 dairy production.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? To inform people that milk is truly good for you and is safe. It’s important for your health and that it doesn’t contain harmful additives. Certain groups try to convince people that milk from a cow is bad for you and this needs to stop. Milk from the farm has What qualities do you great nutritional value and tastes great. possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a strong passion for the dairy industry and am With so many options in the dairy case (including very knowledgeable. I also love telling others about dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend how amazing this industry is. about which option he or she should choose? That they should not think milk labeled as organic or an- What do you think is one of the most important tibiotic free is better than regular milk. With all the dairy messages to share with consumers right testing of the milk before it leaves the farm, milk from now? I think it is very important to keep the public the dairy farm is safe and people should be supporting informed about how well animals are taken care of the local farmer. People should know that if it doesn’t and that all milk leaving farms is safe. come from a cow it shouldn’t be called milk.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I Parents: Kurt and Jenny would tell them to always choose a dairy option when Monson, and Brian Meyer possible. It is full of all the nutrition needed to keep Town: Randall your body healthy.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I love to read and cook. Also, I like to hunt and throw a softball around every once in a while. The farm I work for is a 93-cow tiestall barn. There, I milk cows Nicole Meyer, 18 morning and night everyDairy Star Sponsor: day. During the day, I help Pierz Co-op with anything and everyPierz, MN thing. I could be in the 320-468-6655 shop, in a tractor out the field or in the skidloader cleaning pens. Whatever needs to be done I help do it.

In the future, I would like to own or co-own a farm.

For now, I plan on working to save up money.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a good conversationalist.

I love to spark up a conversation with anyone about anything, but especially about dairy. I’m confident in what I do. I like to think that shows people how passionate I am about the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think farmers need to share with consumers that we treat our cows with the highest respect. They are the source of every farmer’s life. Different organizations and people try to show consumers that farmers don’t treat their animals very nicely. Happy cows produce more milk, so why would farmers treat them poorly? They take care of the cows because cows take

Parents: Doug and Becky Jax Town: Waltham Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on a calf operation of 200-300 milk replacer calves. I mix milk replacer, pour milk and water, bed huts, and assist in treating calves.

This fall, I will attend South Dakota State University to double major in dairy manufacturing and dairy production.

Dani Jax, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Meyerhofer Bagging Stacyville, IA 507-259-5863

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I believe a good dairy princess is passionate about the industry, communicates well and is able to connect with many different audiences.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers is America’s dairy farmers are dedicated to providing the consumer with safe, high-quality milk and dairy products. They have a commitment to quality and care for their animals and the land.

Mower County continued on next page

Page 12 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017

Mower County continued With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? While my friend was making his/her decision, I would inform them of the essential nutrients dairy products contain and how they benefit body and health.

Parents: John and Barb Kloeckner Town: Adams Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have grown up on the Kloeckner Family Farm where we have beef cattle and hogs. When I was a freshman in high school, I started my job on a dairy farm, working at Four Way Farms milking the cows. I am attending Winona State University where I am majoring in nursing.

Mower County continued With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell a friend how dairy products are so much more nutritious than other substitutes. Dairy products offer nine essential nutrients all in one product. Other dairy substitutes may offer these essential nutrients but not all in one source. Therefore, dairy products are the healthier and better choice.

Mower County continued What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am a very easygoing person, and I go with the flow. I love helping people, and I am very outgoing. I am an honest person with commitment to the things I believe in, and promoting dairy is one of them. I am confident in almost everything I do and am confident in promoting dairy. I have knowledge of the dairy industry from experience on our family farm. Lastly, I always have a positive attitude and look at the future instead of the past.

Parents: Steve and Darcey Reinartz Town: Adams

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I believe that in order for a person to reach their full potential and their goals they need the help of dairy. Dairy has many key benefits and nutrients that help people reach his/hers goals and feel the strength they need to do just that.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse majoring in exercise science and minoring in nutrition Rachel Jean with hopes of becoming Kloeckner, 19 a physical therapist. My Cassidy Reinartz, Dairy Star Sponsor: dad was in the dairy in18 Meyerhofer Bagging dustry for almost 35 years Dairy Star Sponsor: Stacyville, IA and still owns dairy cattle.

Northern Country 507-259-5863 Along with a few of the Co-op dairy cattle my dad owns, What qualities do you Stacyville, IA we have a beef herd. When possess that make you 641-710-2348 a good dairy princess? I have lived on a farm my I come home on breaks, I whole life, and I have been actively involved with enjoy working on the farm. the milk production at Four Way Farms. I enjoy dairy products, and that will make it easy for me to promote What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy products. In addition, speech classes that I have dairy princess? I believe I make a good dairy princess taken have helped me to be a better speaker when because I have a very strong knowledge of what is happening in the dairy industry. I am also a very easy pertalking to the public. son to talk with and have good communication skills. I What do you think is one of the most important also enjoy working with others, and I am very passiondairy messages to share with consumers right ate about the dairy industry. now? I think an important message to share with consumers is that dairy products are nutritious. Some What do you think is one of the most important people may not be aware of all the nutritional benefits dairy messages to share with consumers right of dairy products and if they did, I think more people now? I think one of the most important dairy meswould find ways to incorporate them into their diets. sages I would share with consumers right now is animal welfare. There are so many misconceptions about With so many options in the dairy case (including how animals are being treated on the farm. Farmers dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend are constantly checking to make sure their animals are about which option he or she should choose? I well cared for and have comfortable living conditions. would tell them to try different products to see what Farmers make it their top priority that their animals are they like the best. I would also recommend milk be- well cared for because farmers care about the quality cause of the many ways it can be incorporated into the of milk sent to consumers. It is there main source of diet. While it can be drank plain, it can also be added income. as a base to other foods, such as sauces or smoothies.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell a friend that although dairy alternatives are considParents: Al and Lynette ered healthy, they cannot replace milk. Although these Mullenbach milk alternatives have a few of the nine essential nutriTown: Rose Creek ents milk has, they add in many ingredients to make it mimic milk. These ingredients include things like staTell us about yourself, bilizers, sugars and thickeners. I would tell them milk the farm you live and/ is full of nutrients the body needs without all the added or work on, or your paringredients and is better for your health. ents work on, and your future plans. I work for Reads’ Brown Swiss, a 125-registered Brown Swiss herd. I feed calves and clean pens. I plan to attend Iowa State UniverParents: Dave and Jodi sity to pursue a degree in Julia Kay Beckmann animal/dairy science.

Town: Slayton Mullenbach, 17

Murray County

Dairy Star Sponsor: What qualities do you Read’s Brown Swiss possess that make you Austin, MN a good dairy princess? I 507-380-4900 have a lot of experience around dairy cattle, as I have shown for seven years, been a member of the Minnesota and National Brown Swiss Associations, and attended the 2015 National 4-H Dairy Conference. I have a great passion for the industry and love to share this passion with others.

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

I believe one of the most important dairy messages to share is how great and nutritious dairy products are.

Dairy products offer nine essential nutrients all in one product, whereas other dairy substitutes do not.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Murray County Central in Slayton. I am involved in volleyball and basketball, and I am a softball manager. Our family farm has dairy cows, as well as Berkshire pigs. I plan to attend South Dakota State University and major in animal science with future plans to become a veterinarian.

Mariah Beckmann, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Blue Hilltop Inc., Lake Wilson, MN 507-879-3593

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell a friend the best option is the chocolate milk. I would choose this because it has key benefits that help the body fulfill the needed nutrients it needs in a day. Chocolate milk is especially great for athletes who undergo strenuous amounts of activity.

Nicollet County Parents: Rolf and Jean Annexstad Town: St. Peter Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota double majoring in animal science, and agricultural communications and marketing.

I am active in 4-H, Go- Emily Annexstad, pher Dairy Club, Beta of 19 Clovia Sorority, National Dairy Star Sponsor: Agri-Marketing AssociaUnited Farmer’s tion, Agricultural EducaCooperative tion Club and CFAN’s Winthrop, MN mentor program. I grew 507-647-6600 up on my family’s dairy farm, where we milk 200 Holsteins and run about 500 acres of crops. I enjoy helping milk, feed, bed and vaccinate animals.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am comfortable sharing my dairy knowledge with large groups of people or by having one-on-one conversations with an individual, no matter what their age. I am organized and put full effort into whatever I do, giving me the ability to arrive prepared and execute dairy princess events successfully and professionally. Finally, I strive to share my smile and be an approachable, trustworthy source for consumers.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Living in an urban area for college, I have heard concerns about how farmers treat their cows. One of the most important messages to share with consumers is that dairy farmer families work hard every day to take good care of their cows. For instance, on my farm we use misters and fans to keep the cows cool in the summer. We also enjoy giving tours to show the public how we care for our cows.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Dairy farmers take pride in providing you with a wholesome and nutritious food. Milk and other dairy foods from cows are a great source of protein, contain nine essential nutrients, and are important for muscle development and maintenance. Milk is local and fresh, as it travels from the cow to the store in less than 48 hours. Real dairy foods give you many benefits at a relatively low cost, making them well worth your buy.

Nobles County Parents: Clay and Dannielle Weg Town: Worthington Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a dairy north of Bigelow, where my dad, his brothers, and their dad started and continue to run a 1,300-head dairy farm. I am a junior in high school Anneke Weg, 17 and participate in volleyDairy Star Sponsor: ball, basketball, golf and Midwest Country FFA. I have a part-time Feed, LLC of Worthington job and work on the farm 507-827-9083 during the summer. I plan to attend college, major in biology, and become some kind of doctor.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I’ve grown up around farming and enjoy being around cattle. I am passionate about and enjoy learning and teaching others about the dairy lifestyle. I enjoy speaking with and getting to know others, as well.

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

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017 • Page 13

Olmsted County continued With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? First off, I would ask them if they have any food allergies or are lactose intolerance. If not, I would encourage them to purchase milk from a dairy bovine by informing them of the many nutritional benefits of consuming dairy. I would also explain how there are dairy products for consumers with sensitivities as well.

Pine County

Parents: Mike and Shelly Peterson Town: Willow River

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I recently completed my first year at Ridgewater College for ag business. Upon completion at Ridgewater, I plan to transfer to the University of Minnesota to pursue Alli Peterson, 19 my bachelor’s degree. My Dairy Star Sponsor: goal is to work for WinFluegge’s Ag field United in seed sales.

Mora, MN On our farm, we milk 300 320-679-2981 Holsteins and farm 1,200 acres of crops, primarily corn and hay. My favorite jobs are anything with fieldwork and cow care.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess a passion for the industry that drives me to educate others on dairy products and where they come from. I have communication skills that allow me to create relationships with new people.

My background growing up and working on the famWith so many options in the dairy case (including ily farm has given me great values, knowledge and dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend experiences I want to share with others. about which option he or she should choose? I would suggest to this friend that cows’ milk is the What do you think is one of the most important way to go. Not only is it a great source of vitamin D, dairy messages to share with consumers right calcium and many other good things, cows’ milk is now? I believe it is important to educate consumers among the products that consists of the most protein on how important dairy is in a healthy, balanced diet. and energy. If my friend didn’t like milk, there are However, to me one of the most important messages many other dairy products to choose from to get the to share is how we get the product. Not all consumers think dairy is a safe, healthy or humane product. It is same great nutrition. so important to share all the things we do to ensure our animals are safe, healthy and comfortable, as well as how we safely follow guidelines for milk handling.

Olmsted County

Parents: Donny and Holly Thompson Town: Plainview

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s farm, Little Valley Dairy, where we milk 190 registered and grade Holsteins. Our herd is comprised of both red and whites and black and whites. I am a senior at Plainview-Elgin-Millville High School and will be attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities this fall to study agricultural communications and marketing.

Katie Thompson, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: S&S Dairy Systems St. Charles, MN 507-932-4288

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a passion beyond belief for the dairy industry. The many organizations and extracurricular activities I have taken part in have allowed me to develop communication, leadership and time management skills.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I believe it is very important to promote the Dairy 3 For Me program more than ever right now. I will encourage consumers to have at least three servings of dairy each day to help take products off our flooded market.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Of course I would tell them to choose a real dairy product. Real dairy products contain less ingredients and are much more natural. Many dairy alternatives have extra ingredients and go through more processing. If my friend were ever in question, I would have them read the ingredient label. Dairy products offer lower fat and calorie options just like alternatives.

Pipestone County Parents: Dave and Doreen Kallemeyn Town: Holland Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on our family dairy farm with my parents. My two brothers handle the milking, while my mom and I handle raising the youngstock. My future plan is to take over milking with my brothers and expand my herd of steers.

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

I actively promote dairy

products and I am a dairy farmer’s daughter. I enjoy raising calves and seeing them join the milking herd.

I have competed in dairy judging and dairy foods for FFA. What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think the most important message to share with consumers is that people who are lactose intolerant can drink A2 milk. Farmers should breed their cows to A2 bulls so they keep their market.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? If available, my friend should choose A2 milk because it has seven more minerals.

Pope County Parents: Darrell and Molly Oeltjen Town: Villard Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am finishing my first year at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth. I work for my uncles, Alan and Steven Oeltjen, on their farm that consists of 70 registered Holsteins. I would like to be a photographer someday, but have not yet declared a major.

Ellen Oeltjen, 19

Dairy Star Sponsor: Nelson Creamery Assn.

Nelson, MN. What qualities do you 320-762-0115 possess that make you a

good dairy princess? Being able to communicate is key for dairy princesses and that is also a skill I possess. As dairy princesses, we spend a lot of time talking with consumers, farmers and children, so it needs to be done well. I have worked with children a lot in the past and have found ways to break down information in a way they can process and understand.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I believe one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now is that not everything online is true. Many videos and articles are written by people outside the dairy community who do not understand why processes are done the way they are. This leads to many misconceptions, and consumers are less likely to support farming for reasons that are not necessarily true.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would suggest to my friend to choose any product that contains real dairy. The dairy alternatives do not tend to hold the same nutritional value real dairy does, and their body would benefit more from these as well.

For my friends who are lactose intolerant, I would suggest real dairy products, but the foods proven to be easier for lactose intolerant people to digest.

Pope County continued on next page

April Kallemeyn, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Equipment Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

Page 14 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017

Renville County

Parents: Kirby and Ann Albrecht Town: Fairfax Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School in New Ulm and plan to attend South Dakota State University this fall. I live on a farm south of Fairfax. Amy Albrecht, 18 My dad and uncles milk Dairy Star Sponsor: around 70 cows. I enjoy Bongards’ Creameries helping with milking and Norwood-Young harvest whenever needed.

America, MN Being raised on a farm is 952-277-5500 the best thing that could have happened to me. I have learned many valuable lessons I will never forget.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I want to share my love and support for the dairy industry with others, and help promote and spread the importance of it to people of all ages. I enjoy representing dairy farmers because I recognize their hard work and dedication that is involved and would like others to appreciate their hard work as well.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? No matter how young or old you are, it is important not to eliminate dairy products from your diet.

Dairy products contain high calcium levels, which are necessary for building and maintaining a healthy skeletal system. Children need to consume calcium-rich products in order to build strong bones, and adults need to continue consuming those calcium-rich foods in order to maintain a healthy skeletal system and to prevent osteoporosis.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose?

Among all the dairy products, I would choose milk.

Not only does it taste great with chocolate, it also serves as a great source of calcium. Calcium is needed to build a strong skeletal system, which provides structure, protects organs and anchors muscles. Strong bones also influence posture, appearance, balance and energy levels.

Rice County

Parents: Mark and Deb Trcka Town: Montgomery

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at South Dakota State University. I am studying pre-nursing. On our farm, we have 90 Holstein cows. Our farm is a fifthgeneration farm. It has Emilie Trcka, 20 been in our family for 138 Dairy Star Sponsor: years. We also raise all of Dairyland Equipment our own youngstock.

Plainview, MN 507-534-3161

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I feel the most important qualities I have that make me a good dairy princess include leadership, responsibility, time management and a good work ethic.

Rice County continued

about which option he or she should choose? My favorite options in the dairy case at the grocery store are 1 percent white milk, strawberry yogurt and vanilla ice cream because it goes good with everything.

Rock County Parents: Cal and Char Lubben Town: Edgerton Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a dairy farm close to the Nobles County border. On our farm, we milk about 325 cows twice a day in a double-12 parlor. We also grow corn, alfalfa and soybeans. I am a senior in high school, and I will be attending South Dakota State University next year, where I will major in dairy production and minor in ag business.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose?

Choose real dairy. When you buy dairy products you help our families and local businesses.

Parents: Tracey and Cheryl Friedges Town: Elko New Market

Calissa Lubben, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Gorter’s Clay and Dairy Equipment Pipestone, MN 507-825-3271

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have learned many skills throughout high school in the various groups and activities I have been in. One main group I am in is Leaders for Life, which has taught me great leadership skills and how to present myself in front of others.

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

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Real dairy products are always the better option in our diet because they provide more nutrients and calcium. In 8 ounces of 2 percent milk, there are about 8 grams of protein, whereas in non-dairy milk there is a little less depending on the type. The naturally occurring calcium in soy is only about one-sixth the amount found in dairy. These facts just prove that consuming real dairy products is better for your diet.

Scott County

Parents: Wendy and Dan Bungert Town: Lakeville

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have lived in Lakeville all my life and for the past four years I have worked on Thomas Dairy Farm. Working on the farm has become more than a job to me. It has helped me see I want the dairy industry to be a part of my future and has helped me discover my college major.

Scott County continued What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The most important message that needs to be shown to consumers right now is the true face of dairy. Consumers need to see that the industry is a positive one, and that dairy farmers treat their animals with the utmost care.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I go to school at New Prague High School, and I will be graduating this May. I like to hangout with friends, read and help with chores. I used to milk for Ray and Cindy Deutsch, but sadly their Rosie Friedges, 18 barn burned down this Dairy Star Sponsor: past January. I now help Friedges Drywall Inc. them with their chores Elko New Market, MN for calves, and I’ve also 952-461-3288 helped out another dairy farmer in the area. I’m currently looking to work on another local farm. After I graduate, I plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and major in ag business.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I’d like to think of myself as a downto-earth, kind and hardworking person. I believe in order to be a good dairy princess you need to have good work ethic and a kind heart. I wouldn’t want young girls, who grow up around dairy to look at a dairy princess and see a princess who is not admirable. They want to see a princess who they are able to look up to.

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

I believe an important message to share would be that the dairy industry has been around for a long time and without the hardworking farmers and their cows, the dairy industry wouldn’t be where it is today. But the credit also goes to our consumers. When our consumers stop being a part of our support system, the dairy industry struggles. Consumers need to understand that with their support, the industry soars.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell a friend that he or she should choose dairy, because of its nutritional benefits. Dairy builds strong bones and a strong immune system. It also helps a body replenish its needed nutrients after a workout.

Parents: Tim and Jody O’Loughlin Town: Shakopee

McKenna Bungert, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Kasper Dairy Supply Northfield, MN 612-483-1323

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Letting consumers know that we take very What qualities do you good care of our dairy animals, making sure they are possess that make you a good dairy princess? I always healthy. make a good dairy princess because I want to share how important the dairy industry is. I want to be a part With so many options in the dairy case (including of the generation that keeps the industry thriving with dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend a good public image.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am pursuing a degree in child development at South Central College in Mankato. I work full time as an assistant teacher in the infant room at Lil Bee’s Childcare Center. Our family farm is in Shakopee, were we milk and run farm land. We milk 350 cows between two farms and run about 4,500 acres of land. I plan to finish my degree in the

Ashlyn O’Loughlin, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: United Farmer’s Cooperative Winthrop, MN 507-647-6600

Scott County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017 • Page 15

Scott County continued spring of 2018 and open my own daycare.

Stearns County continued

Parents: John and Chris Donnay What qualities do you possess that make you a Town: Kimball good dairy princess? I am outgoing and love to talk to people about something I believe is important in Tell us about yourself, communities, which is the dairy industry. I believe the farm you live and/or one quality that makes me a good dairy princess is work on, or your parents that I want children and their families to know how work on, and your future important it is to eat dairy products and make it fun plans. I am the youngfor them to learn about. est of four children and have grown up on an orWhat do you think is one of the most important ganic dairy farm. We milk dairy messages to share with consumers right 40 cows and raise pigs, now? Milk is a pure product that has no GMOs or an- chickens, ducks, rabbits, tibiotics in it. You should always have three servings cats and a dog. Our family Anna Donnay, 17 of dairy a day: milk, yogurt, cheese, etc. works together to get the Dairy Star Sponsor: chores done. After graduElrosa Feed & With so many options in the dairy case (including ating from high school, I Grain, Inc. dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend plan to attend South DaElrosa, MN about which option he or she should choose? If a kota State University to 320-697-5515 person does not enjoy drinking milk I would suggest major in dairy science and yogurt because there are a bunch of flavors they can run on their cross country choose from but still get their dairy intake. If they are and track teams. One day I hope to come back to Kimunable to digest dairy, Lactaid is a good alternative. ball and open an ice cream shop and bakery.

Stearns County Parents: Deanna Benesh and Danny Lien Town: Spring Hill Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on Joe and Toni Borgerding’s organic dairy farm where I’ve been employed for over a year. Since I began working for them, I’ve learned so much, and my Kayle Benesh, 17 passion for the dairy comDairy Star Sponsor: munity has grown. Next Bork Lumber & fall, I plan to attend North Steel Inc. Dakota State University to Paynesville, MN work towards an animal 320-243-7815 science degree, and then I hope to earn my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? The qualities I posses are leadership, positivity, passion, humbleness and the ability to talk to a variety of ages. I’m very involved in the farm, therefore, I understand the whole spectrum of responsibility. Each of my qualities helps to spread the importance of the dairy diet in/out. I love to talk to consumers and explain how this is my life. All the hard work put into a gallon of milk is truly the answer to what our bodies need.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Consumers right now have so many options to choose from in the dairy case, but they need to know dairy is nutritious, delicious and good tasting. Therefore cow’s milk is pure, meaning it is only made of three simple ingredients – milk and added vitamin A and D. Also, cow’s milk naturally has a powerhouse of nine essential nutrients needed for our bodies. Where dairy alternatives have about 10 ingredients and many added nutrients making it hard for our bodies to break them down.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell my friend dairy is pure. There is nothing else in the dairy case that has the same nutritional value. Even flavored milk still contains the same nuWhat qualities do you possess that make you a trients. Many labels might persuade something differgood dairy princess? I’m very passionate about the ent, but always remember dairy has a powerhouse of dairy community, and I want to spread a positive mes- nine essential nutrients. sage to everyone who’s willing to listen to me. Another quality would be that I ask a lot of questions, so I’m always learning something new, and I can use this Parents: Tom and Sandra Herdering knowledge to teach other people.

Town: St. Rose What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right Tell us about yourself, now? One of the most important dairy messages the farm you live and/ I could share right now is that dairy products are a or work on, or your parhealthy and wholesome way to get the nine essential ents work on, and your nutrients everyone needs. I believe this is important future plans. I grew up because many people are choosing imitation prod- with my three brothers ucts, which do not contain all of these nine nutrients, and sister, along with my and they are missing out on many health benefits, like grandparents who live next door, on my family’s stronger bones. dairy farm where we milk With so many options in the dairy case (including 75 Holsteins. One of my dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend favorite jobs is feeding Ashley Herdering, about which option he or she should choose? If one newborn calves. I plan to 18 of my friends decided to choose an imitation product attend Bemidji State UniDairy Star Sponsor: or was confused on which product to choose, I would versity to major in com- Arnzen Construction/ explain to them that they are missing out on important munication.

St. Rosa Lumber nutrients. I would explain all the health benefits that St. Rosa, MN come with drinking milk or other dairy products, such What qualities do you 320-836-2284 as cheese or yogurt, and how they can help the body possess that make you Freeport Farm Center a good dairy princess? I stay strong.

Freeport, MN have so much passion for 320-836-2171 the dairy community and am so proud of what my family does. I enjoy talking to all different generations of people and find it easy to start up dairy conversations.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? My family and I are proud of what we do. It brings great joy to us knowing we are part of some-

Stearns County continued thing bigger. We feed many people around the world by taking care of our cows.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? There are so many options, but choosing dairy milk is a good choice because it only has three simple ingredients: milk, vitamin A and vitamin D. It also contains nine essential nutrients that are needed to help the working body stay healthy. I would be sure to tell them dairy foods are wholesome, nutritious and good tasting.

Parents: Bernie and Diane Herkenhoff Town: St. Rosa Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at North Dakota State University studying agricultural communications.

I am involved in the Bison Dairy Club, Sigma Alpha Professional Agriculture Kayla Herkenhoff, Sorority and will be con19 cluding my last year of Dairy Star Sponsor: 4-H this summer. I have accepted an internship Arnzen Construction/ St. Rosa Lumber this summer working for St. Rosa, MN Genex Co-op and will be 320-836-2284 breeding cows across central Minnesota. My family and I are proud to be a part of our fourth-generation farm where we milk 130 registered Holstein cows.

My future plans involve continuing to network with agricultural businesses and professionals so I may strengthen myself as an advocate for agriculture.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am genuinely passionate about the wholesome and delicious product that the hard-working farmers across Minnesota produce.

I find myself very approachable, and able to talk to audiences from children to adults. The dairy industry has an abundant story to tell, and I am most honored to share it with others.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Dairy farming has become such an important asset of our state, and we as dairy farmers are proud to provide such a wholesome food for our community.

Minnesota has consistently been in the top 10 producing states for dairy, and it accurately goes to show how important our farmers are to our state.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Many people have different preferences, and today we offer numerous options for everyone. Let’s take the many options of milk for example, it contains nine essential nutrients that our bodies need every day. Our diets crave milk because it is incredibly nutrient dense.

Whichever option they choose, they will be granted with a wholesome and delicious product.

Parents: Alvin and Bernie Holdvogt Town: New Munich Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up on my family’s dairy farm where we milk 90 Holstein cows and grow corn, oats and alfalfa on our 320 acres of land. On the farm, I am responsible for milking, feeding and bedding our cows, and helping with fieldwork as needed.

I attend Minnesota State University-Moorhead working towards a degree

Gina Holdvogt, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Minnesota National Bank Sauk Centre, MN 320-352-5211

Stearns County continued on next page

Page 16 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017

Stearns County continued in math education. Upon my graduation from college, I will begin my career as a math teacher and coach speech for the high school in which I work.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I possess many qualities that are beneficial to a dairy princess. As a future teacher, I recognize the value of enlightening others about the dairy industry and can share complex dairy information in a simplistic manner. I also have a passion for public speaking, which enables me to speak comfortably to both large audiences and individuals. Most importantly, I express my pride for this wholesome industry in all the endeavors I pursue as a representative of the dairy community.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Right now, a key message that should be shared with consumers pertains to the continuous dedication farmers put forth towards producing nutritious and wholesome products. Each day, farmers provide their animals with superior care while being responsible stewards of the land. As they complete these jobs, farmers are always considering safety measures and consumers’ desires for the dairy industry. All these actions ensure consumers’ satisfaction and inspire confidence in enjoying delicious dairy foods.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would first inform my friend about the vast nutritional value, clean label and freshness milk from a cow offers in each dairy product. This information will provide assurance that all products made from cow’s milk are ideal choices for his or her body. Next, I would provide context about the wide range of food and drink options made available from cow’s milk. Being aware of the varying flavors, fat contents, forms and methods of production of dairy products will allow my friend to find the right dairy option for his or her diet.

Parents: Darrel and Lisa Maus Town: Freeport Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a family dairy farm south of Freeport where my family milks 60 Holstein cows.

My family and the farm Ashley Maus, 18 have influenced me to be a Dairy Star Sponsor: member of 4-H, FFA, the Dairyland Supply school band, NHS, school Sauk Centre, MN musicals and church. This 320-352-3987 fall, I will be using my experiences at South Dakota State University in Brookings, S.D., where I will major in dairy science.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am active in the dairy industry. I am in 4-H dairy bowl, dairy judging and showing, and I am on the milk quality team for FFA. These experiences have led me to believe I am knowledgeable in the dairy field. They have also helped me have a greater passion for the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Farmers care for the animals and are proud of what they do. If they did not like animals, farming probably is not the job for them. They treat the animals with respect and work with others to make sure they are happy and healthy all the time.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would promote chocolate milk. It is filled with nine essential nutrients that should be consumed daily.

Chocolate milk has been proven to help refuel exhausted muscles after a workout and tastes great, too.

Stearns County continued

Stearns County continued

Parents: Vernon and Joan Mehr Town: Farming

sun shines every morning because of our cows. We want what is best for them. This is an incredibly important message right now because there is a lot of misinformation on the Internet, especially social media, that some consumers believe to be true.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up with three older siblings on a 200-acre dairy farm where we milk about 60 cows. On the farm, I help with milking and feeding. In my free time, I en- Roseann Mehr, 19 joy four wheeling, swing Dairy Star Sponsor: dancing and spending Worms Lumber & time with my nieces and Ready Mix Inc. nephews. I have been acNew Munich, MN cepted into the LPN pro320-837-5288 gram at Ridgewater College in Willmar, and I plan to complete my diploma in spring 2018.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have strong leadership and people skills. I have a positive attitude, and I enjoy working with people of all ages. I work at a daycare center in St Joseph, as an assistant teacher. Being a dairy princess gives me a great opportunity to gain knowledge about the dairy industry, as well as offers me the chance to spread my knowledge to today’s consumers whom are far removed from the farm.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I like to visit with consumers about the influence dairy has on our state and our economy. The dairy industry provides jobs to many parts of our economy such as banks, truck drivers and grocery store owners, as well as the companies that develop the machines we use to milk the cows and the veterinarians who give us advice when our animals become ill. The dairy industry not only provides healthy food options, but also many jobs.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? As a dairy princess, my friends often ask what the difference is between cow’s milk and milk alternatives. My answer is always the same; milk comes from mammals, not plants. There aren’t any beverages in the grocery store today with the same nutritional benefits real milk has in each 8-ounce serving. Protein, calcium and potassium, along with six others nutrients, fill every dairy serving.

Parents: Isidore and Beverly Schmitz Town: Freeport Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I have grown up on a dairy, beef and hog farm.

I’m mainly involved with our dairy and beef cattle. I work on my farm, as well as North Oak Dairy near Freeport, doing various chores. This fall, I will be attending South Dakota State University with a major in animal science.

I hope to become a dairy nutritionist.

Kelly Schmitz, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Greenwald Farm Center Greenwald, MN 320-987-3177

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I live and work on a farm, so I have gained a lot of knowledge of the dairy industry.

Through FFA, I have had the experience to be interviewed for dairy proficiency and state degree applications, which have made me feel more comfortable speaking in front of others. In addition, I am a good listener and respectful of others.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Why? The most important key dairy message is dairy cows are well cared for. We get up before the

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? They should choose any dairy good that contains cow milk.

After all, cow milk contains nine essential nutrients.

It is very healthy for you. By buying real dairy goods, you’re not only benefiting yourself, but also dairy farmers.

Parents: Ed and Ann Willenbring Town: Richmond Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Rocori High School. For the past 17 years, I have lived and helped on my parents’ dairy farm, along with my six siblings, where we milk 44 Brown Swiss Marissa cows. On the farm I help Willenbring, 17 with feeding calves, milkDairy Star Sponsor: ing cows and other variCentral Minnesota ous tasks when needed. I Credit Union am also involved in 4-H 320-256-4269 and FFA, both in which I show animals at the county fair, and in FFA participate on my chapter’s dairy team.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I enjoy working with people of all ages and having the opportunity to inform and educate them about something I find truly important and have had the privilege of experiencing throughout my life. I feel it is my duty to educate and inform consumers in a truthful and proper manner, and share my passion for the dairy industry with them.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I feel it is necessary for consumers to be presented the facts and truth of dairy farming, and understand that dairy farmers take pride in their job. Many people have a misunderstanding of what actually goes on at the farm and the time, care and work put into the products. Right now there are so many sides and views everywhere that sometimes display false and biased information. It is important for consumers to be educated in a truthful and honest manner so they fully understand the dairy industry, as well as the importance of real dairy products.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would inform a friend of the nine naturally occurring essential nutrients contained in real dairy products and the health benefits they provide. The nutrients contained in real dairy products are the most absorbable compared to dairy alternatives, which may contain nutrients but ones that are not naturally occurring.

Real dairy products contain eight times the protein versus other dairy alternatives, like almond or rice.

Another important thing to realize is that real dairy products contain only three ingredients – milk and vitamins A and D, while dairy alternatives may contain as many as 10 ingredients, including salts, sugars and thickeners. Aside from the nutritional aspect, real dairy products provide jobs to many people including the farmer, plant workers, milk haulers and office workers, who take pride in their work to ensure the consumer is given a product that is nutritious, safe and good tasting.

Steele County

Parents: Bernard Anne Manderfeld Town: Faribault

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Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My family owns and operates our family dairy farm in Faribault. We milk 115 registered Milking Shorthorns and crossbreds twice a day. I work for my dad and I specialAmelia ized in calf care. I also Manderfeld, 18 milk, move animals and Dairy Star Sponsor: help with crop season. I am Ag Partners the owner of two steers, a Goodhue, MN Milking Shorthorn breed651-923-4496 ing bull, five embryos that are due to be born this fall, and a mother, daughter pair. Once I graduate in May, I will continue working for my dad until this fall when I will be attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. My goal is to get a degree in biotechnology with a minor in animal/dairy science.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I think I have what it takes to be a dairy princess because I know a lot about the dairy industry and what farmers have to offer. I know what it takes to have a good functioning dairy farm, and I want to share my knowledge and story with the people around me. I will be more than willing to answer any questions and I will answer them to the best of my abilities.

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

Consumers may be wondering how we house and care for our animals. At my farm, we have a freestall barn, which has stalls that have mattresses. This helps keep the cattle comfortable, and we add sawdust on the mattresses so that it can soak up any waste material the animal produces. This makes it easier to scrape the stalls and keep them clean. Our animals are free to wonder around within the allies. They have feed and water in front of them 24/7. During the summer, there are sprinklers the cattle can walk under to cool off and during the winter we have curtains to block the wind and snow.

Our animals are our No. 1 priority on our farm and their well-being means everything to us.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? There are many types of milk out there and it amazes me.

However, dairy milk has nine essential nutrients regardless if it is BST free, organic, or just regular whole milk. It is all the same. They all have the same nutrients. The only difference is what type of practice or set up the farm operates.

Parents: Merton and Trudy Nelson Town: Ellendale Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. My family and I live and work on our farm near Ellendale. I have also grown a herd of my own Ayrshires and Guernseys.

Off the farm, I am active in FFA, 4-H, National Hon- Lacey Nelson, 18 or Society, High School Dairy Star Sponsor: Ambassadors and One Wingert Sales Act Play. I am a senior at & Service NRHEG High School and Plainview, MN plan to attend either the 507-534-4386 University of MinnesotaTwin Cities for animal science or the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for dairy science in the fall.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? My world revolves around our cows.

Daily participation on my family’s dairy has instilled

Steele County continued

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017 • Page 17

Steele County continued

dedication and pride into my character. With the knowl- industry, particularly through children. I hope to help edge that I gained in the past 18 years, I intend to edu- people make healthy food choices. I also hope to listen to people’s concerns and how the world of dairy can cate others about the dairy industry and agriculture. benefit everyone.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? What do you think is one of the most important Consumer confidence is a major issue for the dairy in- dairy messages to share with consumers right now? dustry. We need to ensure food safety and show con- Today’s consumers request many choices for dairy products, and the dairy industry has responded. The insumers we produce safe, high quality milk. dustry provides both organic and standard products. It With so many options in the dairy case (including also has lactose-free versions. These many options show dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend consumers that dairy is evolving and the dairy industry about which option he or she should choose? Choose is working to meet what consumers want. the real thing. Milk and real dairy products are pure, safe and packed with nutrients that are easily digested With so many options in the dairy case (including and absorbed by our bodies. Best of all, they are afford- dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? The able and taste great. dairy industry has responded to consumers. Lactosefree versions of dairy products help people eat food that Parents: Curtis and Amy contains protein and have less physical reactions. Also, Rieck eating cheese and yogurt is another way to eat dairy for Town: Owatonna people who react to lactose. And, real butter does not have the additives and artificial colors processed oil Tell us about yourself, products do. With all these real dairy options, people the farm you live and/ can be healthy and still choose dairy at the grocery store. or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work as a farmhand for Schrohaven Parents: Ron and Julie Dairy, which is an organic Golombiecki dairy farm located near Town: Morris Owatonna. My duties include helping milk the Tell us about yourself, cows, feeding the calves, Leah Rieck, 20 the farm you live and/or cleaning the milk house Dairy Star Sponsor: work on, or your parents and helping feed the cows.

IBA Dairy Supply, work on, and your fuMy future plans include Brandon Balzer & ture plans. I grew up on attending Rochester ComRusty Paulson a 60-cow dairy and have munity and Technical ColOwatonna, MN plans to take it over with lege this fall to get my 507-451-7218 my brother after I finish associate degree in veterischool. I’m serving as Nanary technology. I hope to tional PAS Vice President someday work with both small and large animals.

Elizabeth while being actively inGolombiecki, 20 volved throughout college, What qualities do you possess that make you a good as well as involved with Dairy Star Sponsor: dairy princess? To be a good dairy princess, you must D&D Ag Supply have good leadership skills. If you are representing lo- showing dairy with 4-H before I graduated. & Construction cal dairy farmers you want to also be respectful to all Pennock, MN people, and can communicate with people of all ages.

What qualities do you 320-599-4466 What do you think is one of the most important possess that make you a dairy messages to share with consumers right now? good dairy princess? I believe I am a great dairy prinAn important dairy message I believe consumers cess because I like talking with people and answering should know is that organic dairy products and non- their questions. organic dairy products are both very healthy and safe What do you think is one of the most important options to consume. dairy messages to share with consumers right now?

With so many options in the dairy case (including Farmers care for their cows 24/7, 365 days a year. We dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend are dairy farmers because we truly enjoy what we do about which option he or she should choose? Dairy and believe if we take care of the cow, and then she will foods have nine essential nutrients that most dairy take care of us. alternatives don’t offer. Also, dairy alternatives cost more than natural dairy products. Dairy alternatives With so many options in the dairy case (including have multiple ingredients listed on the carton, whereas dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend cow’s milk is simple with just milk and vitamins as about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them the only thing in milk is milk, while other their ingredients. products on the market are full of other ingredients.

Keep it simple, keep it milk.

Parents: Mark and Gail Zollner Town: Owatonna Parents: Tom and Lisa Tell us about yourself, Walsh the farm you live and/or Town: DeGraff work on, or your parents work on, and your future Tell us about yourself, plans. I live in Owatonna the farm you live and/or and have leased Brown work on, or your parents Swiss and Holsteins from work on, and your fuClover Glen Farms through ture plans. I live on a 60the 4-H dairy program for head Hereford beef farm, five years. I started showand show cattle in open, ing dairy and working at Rebecca Zollner, 19 4-H and FFA shows. My Clover Glen Farms after dad works for Riverview Dairy Star Sponsor: four years of cow camp Dairy. I have been a FFA Northland Farm through community educhapter officer for two Halle Walsh, 17 Systems cation. My plans are to be years, and also in 4-H. Owatonna, MN Dairy Star Sponsor: an early childhood teacher.

Are chapter helps with the 800-385-3911 Riverview LLP With a background in dairy, malt stand at my county riverviewllp.com I will pass along this inforfair, and I have worked Proud supporter of mation to a new generation on it every year. This past all the county dairy of dairy consumers to make healthy choices. year, I have participated princesses in the Riverview AgvoWhat qualities do you possess that make you a good Swift County continued on next page dairy princess? I have a passion to promote the dairy

Stevens County

Swift County

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Swift County continued

Todd County continued

cate Scholarship Program. In this program, we learn how to agvocate for agriculture. We do presentations to classes in are elementary school, also to an adult group, and another one at the Minnesota State FFA Convention. This fall, I plan to attend South Dakota State University and major in ag business and ag communications.

Parents: Debbie Shawn Hollermann Town: Burtrum

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I can have a conversation with almost everyone, and I know the importance of spreading the word of agriculture to the world. I’ve learned how to communicate with people who may ask hard to answer questions about agriculture in an appropriate way.

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

I think the most important message we can share with consumers is all of it. Consumers need to understand what we do and why we do it. A lot of the reason consumers question farmers is because they don’t know where and how their food comes to be, and how important it is to spread the word about agriculture.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them to choose milk because it is high in calcium and other nutrients. It is not only a good drink to have, but yet another way that we can support our farmers.

Todd County Parents: Ron and Mary Lou Bussmann Town: Grey Eagle Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Melrose High School and plan to attend the College of Saint Benedict in the fall. I am involved in Girl Scouts, National Honor Society, tennis, speech and band. On our farm we raise our own calves, heifers and steers. We milk our Holstein cows three times a day. My favorite job on the farm is feeding the calves and helping give shots during herd health.

Kristen Bussmann, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Long Prairie Machinery Long Prairie, MN 320-732-3715

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am ambitious and always strive to do my best in all aspects of my life. I am passionate about teaching young kids where their dairy products come from. I am also willing to learn from what other people know about the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? There are so many types of milk in stores, but cow milk is the most beneficial. The alternative options do not allow a person’s body to get the nutrients it needs. Many people do not realize that when they don’t consume milk they are missing out on nine essential nutrients, which they will not get all of them from alternative products.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them to choose milk because it tastes good and is a staple product filled with nutrients. People are able to make many delicious foods with milk, so there isn’t just one use.

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Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I grew up in the small town of Burtrum, on a 400-cow dairy farm where we produce fresh and wholesome milk. I attend Ridgewater College in Willmar, Megan where I am majoring in Hollermann, 18 dairy management and Dairy Star Sponsor: agri-business. I served on Professional Dairy the board of directors on Systems the PAS (Post-Secondary Wadena, MN Agriculture Student Or218-632-5416 ganization) club at Ridgewater. My future plans are to graduate from Ridgewater and return to my home farm.

Todd County continued With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Milk, because it is the most widely consumed dairy product in our world today. It provides nutrients, strong bones and is an all around healthy way of living. It is one of the most versatile, as well. You can drink it straight, or use it in cooking or baking. It also tastes amazing with chocolate chip cookies.

Parents: Alan and Vicki Paskewitz Town: Staples

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I’m proud to have grown up showing cattle from my uncle’s farm, Solid Rock Dairy.

For years, I fed calves and remained involved in Rebekka What qualities do you possess that make you my own beef enterprise, Stump Ranch Simmena good dairy princess? I am confident, devoted, a Paskewitz, 19 leader, thoughtful and lovable. During my time at tals. Finishing my freshDairy Star Sponsor: Ridgewater this last year, I have toured a minimum of man year at South Dakota Pro-Ag Farmer’s Co-op 30 farms of all shapes and sizes. I’ve worked at four State University, I am exBrowerville, MN farms and also work for Genex, so I know how many cited to pursue a career in 320-594-2711 of the dairies around the state operate. I also will be agricultural education and traveling to Australia to work on a 30,000-cow dairy agricultural communications. I plan to continue farm for a month. my love of advocacy as a high school teacher, FFA What do you think is one of the most important advisor and industry communicator. dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Cow’s milk is clean and clear. Every glass of What qualities do you possess that make you a milk is nutritious and healthy. Other milk alternatives good dairy princess? I believe dairy farmers, and all like almond milk contain eight to 12 non-essential ad- agriculturalists, have the responsibility of producing ditives, such as salts, sugars, starches, stabilizers and and marketing our toil. Equally important, however, is the role of telling our story. As a dairy princess, I thickeners. find my greatest strength to be telling my own story, With so many options in the dairy case (including but also the stories of the dairy farmers I represent. dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend Relating to consumers and honestly, but positively about which option he or she should choose? No addressing their concerns, is a skill I have obtained matter what milk you buy, it’s clean, clear and antibi- through training and personal motivation. otic free. Homogenization and pasteurization do not alter the nine essential nutrients that milk provides to What do you think is one of the most important our bodies. The dairy aisle at the grocery store offers dairy messages to share with consumers right many options, but the choice should be clear. Any now? Currently, the most valuable message to share milk that has tested positive for antibiotics is not pro- with consumers is the validity and necessity of dairy products. We have a large competition with alternacessed for consumers; it is dumped down the drain. tive options to dairy, however, this can also present us with a neat opportunity. We know the wholesome products that are produced by our cows. Offering Parents: Mike and Cheryl open sights of our farms and sharing the knowledge Pachan we have can be a pivotal point in sharing the imporTown: Long Prairie tance of our products.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I didn’t grow up on a dairy farm, but I have had the amazing opportunity to work at the Zigan family farm for the last three years. I started April 2014 and shortly Megan Pachan, 22 thereafter they installed Dairy Star Sponsor: robotic milkers in July. I Harms Mfg., Inc. am graduating this month Bertha, MN with a robotic automated 218-924-4522 systems technology diploma from Central Lakes College in Staples. My future plans are to explore the world of robotics as it relates to the dairy industry.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? In relation to every other food source, dairy products must be chosen based on personal preference and health needs. Milk, cheese and yogurt have countless options based on dietary needs, taste preference and even cost. The most important thing to know when looking at these options is the quality our products bring to the dairy case. By far, our dairy products are the most wholesome and naturally nutritious options on the market, all of which are backed by farmers who have a pride and passion for their animals and what they do.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am passionate about family farms and the cows on those farms. I know and understand the dairy process and the production of milk.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THIS SPECIAL EDITION,

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? Animal care and health. I feel I need to speak up for the cows. They are treated more like a member of the family than just a piece of property. They are looked after and cared for constantly. Farmers today do everything they can to help cows produce the nine essential nutrients to be consumed by the world today.

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.

Wabasha County

Parents: Mark and Lori Fick Town: Lake City

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I live on a beef farm and work on a dairy farm. My future plans are to attend Northeast Iowa Community College for the beef science technology and receive a degree in ag business. After college, I plan to work on an operation gaining more knowledge and saving for a place of my own.

Rachel Fick, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Beck Implement Elgin, MN 507-876-2122

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I am very passionate about the dairy and farming industry. Because of this, I love spreading my knowledge to youth and community members. I am also positive and hardworking. I love volunteering and being involved, and I am driven to do the best because it’s what I believe in. Like my grandfather and father always told me, “a job worth doing, is a job worth doing well.”

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? To not believe the things that are on social media because it isn’t all necessarily true and what is true is only a small portion. If you ever have any questions about dairy, check out midwestdairy.com.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose?

Milk is a unique package of vitamins and minerals; however, it is not just milk offering all this. Now, if milk isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other dairy products that offer the same things. There is cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese and, my favorite, ice cream.

Consuming dairy products provide us with so many health benefits. And who among us does not want to be healthy? Bottom line, dairy is quite nutritious and beneficial to everybody’s health.

Parents: Tom and Sandy Gerken Town: Lake City Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senior in high school. I have been in FFA for four years and 4-H for 12 years. Farming has been my whole life, and I love doing it. I live Heather Gerken, 18 on a swine farm and have Dairy Star Sponsor: worked for a nearby dairy, Monahan Hoof Trimming Keller Dairy, for about 5.5 Plainview, MN years. My future plans are 507-272-3447 to major in dairy management at Northeast Iowa Community College.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I like to promote the dairy organization in many ways, and I am very passionate about it. I like to inform the people about how a dairy farm works. Also, I like to talk to people. I am not afraid to talk in front of groups.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? The most important message is that the dairy industry has many family farms. Many of these farms have started from a family and are still owned by the family, even though they have grown.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell them about how dairy helps a person be strong, why it is healthy, and how nutritious it is.

Wabasha County continued Parents: Stacy and Julie Miller Town: Plainview Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am the daughter of a fourth-generation dairy farmer. I love living on the farm and being an active member of my family’s dairy farm. My experiences on the farm Melendy Miller, 19 have led me to pursuing a Dairy Star Sponsor: career in the dairy science Dairyland Equipment field. I am a freshman at Plainview, MN University of Wisconsin507-534-3161 River Falls.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? One of my best qualities is my positive energy I put into everything I do. I believe it will be helpful when sharing my dairy story with everyone I meet and talk to during my year as Wabasha County Dairy Princess.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think one of the most important messages for consumers to know is that cow and calf care is a top priority for every farmer. Farmers work closely with nutritionists and veterinarians to ensure cows are getting proper nutrients and are always healthy. Calves are the future of the herd and farmers ensure they are happy and healthy at all times.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell a friend that he or she should feel good about eating dairy products. With low-fat, fat-free and even lactose-free options, there is something for everyone. Getting three servings of dairy every day is a great way to ensure bodies stay healthy and strong.

Waseca County Parents: Amy and Mitch Kruger Town: Waseca

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017 • Page 19

West Otter Tail County

Parents: Brad and Kim Johnson Town: Fergus Falls

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a sophomore at South Dakota State University majoring in family and consumer science education.

I live on a third-generation dairy farm with my dad and older brother run- Brooke Johnson, 20 ning it. We milk 140 cows twice a day. When I gradDairy Star Sponsor: uate from college in 2019, Ashby Farmers Co-op I would like to come back Elevator around my hometown and Ashby, MN find a high school fam218-747-2948 ily and consumer science teaching job, and start a family someday.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I love talking to people about the farm. I also enjoy taking people around our farm, showing them how it works and explaining why we have it set up the way we do. I also feel I am very outgoing with people and have a voice of passion when talking about the dairy industry.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? I think consumers need to be informed about how dairy products are the safest, freshest, most nourishing products on the shelves. Dairy products are antibiotic free. They go through a process that thoroughly checks the milk. Milk also includes vitamins, such as B12, that help in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose?

Choose real dairy milk and not other products such as coconut, almond, soy or rice, which are imitations of real dairy products.

Parents: Jon and Michele Petterson Town: Fergus Falls

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or Tell us about yourself, work on, or your parents the farm you live and/ work on, and your future or work on, or your plans. Next year, I will atparents work on, and tend North Dakota State your future plans. I live College of Science-Wahon a dairy farm in southpeton to study paramedic ern Minnesota. My father and become a trauma owns the farm and milks nurse (ER nurse). We sold approximately 72 cows. our dairy in 2001, but con- Autum Petterson, I plan to attend the Unitinue to farm north of Fer18 versity of St. Thomas this Emma Kruger, 18 gus Falls where we have fall to major in business or Dairy Star Sponsor: Dairy Star Sponsor: beef cattle and crop farm. pre-law.

Story Sales & Service My dad passed away from Dreyer Dairy Farm, Ottertail, MN Faribault, MN cancer in June of 2014, so What qualities do you 800-491-3724 it’s just my mom, sister possess that make you and I running the farm. I a good dairy princess? I enjoy talking to the public about the dairy industry, work for Dreyer Dairy Farm in Otter Tail City, where and I love teaching children about dairy products and they milk 460 cows a day. cows themselves.

What qualities do you possess that make you a What do you think is one of the most important good dairy princess? I am a very bubbly person, who dairy messages to share with consumers right is passionate about the dairy industry. I am very perky now? The most important message is that authentic and talkative, and I love to share my knowledge. In milk is better for you than almond milk or other al- regards to the dairy industry, I want to be a positive ternatives. If the industry does not send that message, advocate who shares my personal experiences with the people I meet. I am a very caring person who sales of traditional dairy products may go down. loves to have a good time and make memories.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend What do you think is one of the most important about which option he or she should choose? If you dairy messages to share with consumers right have no diet restrictions, choose traditional milk. If now? Why? America’s dairy farmers are dedicated to you are lactose intolerant, you can still choose milk, providing safe, high-quality milk and dairy products. but choose a product like Fairlife that advertises easy We want to give people the best of the best while prodigestion for people with such issues. Also, if you are viding high care for our cattle and the land. on a diet, there are many low-fat options that are still a dairy product, skim milk and frozen yogurt.

West Otter Tail County continued on next page

Page 20 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 13, 2017

West Otter Tail County continued With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would instruct my friend that the nutrients in many non-dairy beverages are not the same as cow milk.

Slim to none can even match the full nutritional package that is offered naturally in milk.

Parents: Todd and Dacia Johnson Town: Fergus Falls Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. When I was young, I enjoyed feeding the calves in the morning with my grandma, who I called, Grandmoo, and showing calves and heifers at the county fair. I’ve always Rachel Johnson, 20 been an animal-lover with Dairy Star Sponsor: a special affinity for cows. AgCountry Farm Credit I am finishing my sophoServices, more year at Concordia Fergus Falls, MN College in Moorhead. I am 218-739-5221 majoring in social studies 1-800-757-5221 education with minors in history and psychology. I plan on becoming a secondary social studies teacher and basketball coach.

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? I have a passion for the dairy community and the farmers who are the heart and soul of it.

What do you think is one of the most important dairy messages to share with consumers right now? One of the most important messages to share with consumers right now is about the dairy community’s sustainability efforts. With the political sphere as it is right now, sustainability is a crucial issue for our world to be concerned about. Sustainability is good for us and for the cows, too.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Milk alternatives contain added ingredients and go through more processing. So, I would tell a friend that choosing cow’s milk is always the best option (unless dietary restrictions apply), because of the nine essential nutrients, only three ingredients, and less processing it goes through.

Winona County Parents: Mark and Kathy Brosig Town: Altura Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a senor attending Lewiston-Altura High School, and I plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse this fall. I live and work on a 210-cow dairy with a mix of Holstein and Brown Swiss cattle. I feed calves, milk cows and do many other things to help around the farm.

Leah Brosig, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Benson Farm Service Lewiston, MN 507-523-2188 Wingert’s Sales & Service Plainview, MN 507-534-4386

What qualities do you possess that make you a good dairy princess? Because I grew up on a dairy farm, I have grown passionate about the dairy industry. This I why I have become an ambassador for the farmers of Winona County.

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

WabashaCounty continued the benefits of consuming dairy. There are a lot of milk alternatives, like soy and almond, but these don’t have the same amount of essential nutrients found in dairy milk.

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would tell the friend that the healthiest option for them is to choose skim, 1 or 2 percent milk. These all have the same nutrients, but with varying levels of fat.

It depends on their preference of flavor.

Wright County

Parents: Leroy Campbell and Donna Decker Town: Maple Lake

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I am a first-year student attending Ridgewater College in Willmar, for ag business with a livestock emphasis. I grew up on a small crop and livestock farm, and in high school I was very involved with FFA and 4-H. In September, I began working at Krause Holsteins in Buffalo. There, we milk 200 Holsteins in a parlor, raise all our own replacement heifers and have an automated calf feeder.

Shelby Campbell, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Hartung Sales & Service Freeport, MN 320-836-2697

Wright County continued dairy program. This fall I plan to go back to school to major in elementary education.

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 4-H state ambassador program provided me with leadership and public speaking skills. It also helped me build my confidence and has given me a chance to share my dairy farm story. I want to inspire others to see the benefits the dairy community has on the world today.

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

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? I would share with them about how dairy has a clean label with fewer ingredients compared to dairy alternatives. Also, milk only takes 48 hours to get from the farm to your table. If my friend likes being active I would share with them the benefits of chocolate milk in their diet. Also if they were lactose intolerant I’d share how lactose free milk is real dairy and has all the same nine essential nutrients.

Parents: Michael and Donna Socha What qualities do you possess that make you a good Town: Corcoran dairy princess? Though I haven’t been involved with the dairy community long, I have been an advocate Tell us about yourself, for agriculture for as long as I can remember. I have the farm you live and/ also held many leadership positions in 4-H and FFA, or work on, or your parsuch as 4-H State ambassador, FFA region vice presi- ents work on, and your dent, and chapter offices that have taught me how to future plans. I work at properly inform people of our industry. Aside from all Green Waves Dairy in St. the agriculture related organizations, I am very outgo- Michael. This fall, I will ing and sociable. be attending South Dakota State University to major What do you think is one of the most important in dairy science. dairy messages to share with consumers right Margaret Socha, now? One of the most pressing matters in the dairy What qualities do you 18 industry is milk production. So many people think possess that make you Dairy Star Sponsor: their milk is contaminated with antibiotics or that we a good dairy princess? I Munson Lakes Nutrition give them to the cattle around the clock. In reality, the have a genuine passion for Howard Lake, MN cattle are like humans and only need medicine when the dairy community and 320-543-2561 they get sick. When cows are given antibiotics, their a desire to share it with milk is put into a bucket and dumped. others. It is an honor and extremely rewarding to be able to represent all the With so many options in the dairy case (including hardworking individuals within the dairy community. dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? The What do you think is one of the most important best dairy choice is milk because of the high levels dairy messages to share with consumers right now? of calcium and phosphorus, which helps promote The main goal of everyone involved in the dairy combone growth. It also contains nine essential nutrients, munity is to produce a safe, nutritious product while protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin A, humanely caring for their animals and protecting the vitamin D, vitamin B12, riboflavin and niacin. Milk environment. I think this message is important right is America’s No. 1 source of calcium, potassium and now because many consumers don’t realize we share vitamin D, while cheese is No. 2. the same concerns they do.

Parents: Wayne and Lorrie Kozitka Town: Howard Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, or your parents work on, and your future plans. I work on my uncle’s farm where we milk about 40 Holstein and crossbred cows. I help with the milking and feeding the calves. I house five Bethany Kozitka, of my own dairy animals 21 there, too. This year, I am Dairy Star Sponsor: also working as an assistant dance teacher through Bongards’ Creameries Norwood-Young my local community eduAmerica, MN cation program. I volun952-277-5500 teer with my local 4-H

With so many options in the dairy case (including dairy alternatives), what would you tell a friend about which option he or she should choose? Any real dairy product is the way to go, as dairy alternatives are nutritionally inferior and often contain lengthy ingredient lists. When it comes to choosing which real dairy option, they are all safe and nutritious, so ultimately it comes down to your personal preferences for costs, brands, full or reduced fat, etc.