Mn dairy princess 2015

DAIRY ST R Special Edition

May 9, 2015

Making a lasting impact Haler reflects on her reign as Princess Kay of the Milky Way

BY MISSY MUSSMAN Staff writer

NORWOOD YOUNG AMERICA, Minn. – For the past nine months, Jeni Haler has been achieving a goal she set for herself after the Princess Kay coronation last August.

“Every Princess Kay is different, so I hope I was different in the way I did things by having a different type of conversation with people or doing a different speech that stuck with the audiences,” she said.

“That’s been my goal all along.

I wanted to make an impact and make it last.”

With only three months left as Princess Kay, Haler isn’t losing site of that goal with a full schedule ahead of her.

“I’m going to continue to do the best job I can, put all my effort into each event and keep going strong on behalf of the dairy farmers,” Haler said.

After being crowned the 61st Princess Kay of the Milky Way, Haler, the daughter of Rick Haler and Connie Helget Haasken, hit the ground running attending nearly 75 events so far this year. These events have included visiting with students across the state, speaking at numerous conventions and banquets, and promoting the Fuel Up to Play 60 program.

“I’ve done a little of everything this year,” Haler said.

“It’s been busy but fun.”

Out of all of her events so far, participating in the Fuel Up to Play 60 Summit on April 25 has been her favorite.

“I was able to meet three of our Vikings players, but the best part was seeing how excited the kids were,” Haler said.

“It was an energy-filled day.”

That enthusiasm from the students at the Fuel Up to Play 60 events and the 20 classroom

visits she has attended has made her year as Princess Kay memorable.

“When the students are excited and energetic to learn about dairy, I feel just as excited to share my dairy story.

Their excitement gives me a renewed hope for the future of our industry,” Haler said.

“That is something that will stick with me long after I am done being Princess Kay. It’s an unforgettable feeling.”

Drawing off the excitement from the students, Haler makes sure to keep her presentations interactive.

“I like to ask them questions and have them answer.

There is always an opportunity to educate the students when they answer the questions than me just telling them,” Haler said. “That way, they stay engaged and listen to what I share with them.”

Haler also encourages the students to ask her questions.

“I have gotten some interesting questions like ‘What happens if all the cows break their legs’, and ‘What do you do with the cows when they

MISSY MSSMAN / DAIRY STAR

Jeni Haler, 61st Princess Kay of the Milky Way, talks with media personnel from Fox 9 News during an evening broadcast at the 2014 Minnesota State Fair.

While attending all of her events, Haler has been able to share the experience with her family. Her parents and sisters, Chaneen and Victoria, have frequently ridden along.

“They all love it,” Haler said. “Both of my sisters were finalists but never got to ex-

“Being Princess Kay is something I hoped I would be able to do growing up. It has been an absolutely outstanding year. It’s been everything I could have dreamed it to be and so much more.”

– PRINCESS KAY JENI HALER die.’” she said. “Although they are tough questions to answer, they challenge and push me to be better. I come out of those classroom visits learning as much as I taught them. It’s really rewarding.”

perience the year as Princess Kay. Now I get to share it with them.”

With summer and June Dairy Month just around the corner, Haler is gearing up for

her busy schedule with numerous library visits, Fuel Up to Play 60 promotions and breakfasts on the farm.

“I’m really excited for the breakfasts on the farm,” Haler said. “This will be my first time at one. I’m looking forward to finding out what they are about, and the opportunity to speak and connect with the people from the local communities.”

Haler also plans to bring her butterhead to a few events in her local community this summer before making cookies out of it for the people who helped her along her journey through the Milky Way. Hopefully, Haler would like use the remainder of the butter to make cookies for the troops.

“That’s my main goal,” Haler said.

Before her busy summer schedule begins, Haler will welcome 12 new Princess Kay of the Milky Way Finalists for 2015.

“This year has gone faster than I thought. I’m not ready for it to be over yet,” Haler said. “It will be bittersweet having the 12 new girls, but I am also really excited for them.”

Although she has had a busy year, Haler wouldn’t trade it for anything.

“Being Princess Kay is something I hoped I would be able to do growing up,” she said. “It has been an absolutely outstanding year. It’s been everything I could have dreamed it to be and so much more.”

But what has made Haler’s reign special for her is representing the dairy farmers of Minnesota.

“Every time I do an event, I know I’m not doing it for me.

I’m doing it for the dairy farmers,” she said. “They’ve all inspired me, supported me and made my year worth while. I hope I’ve made them proud. If I’ve done that, then I’m proud of what I’ve done.”

Introducing Your County Dairy Princesses For 2015...

Page 2 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015

Becker County

Brown County continued

an early morning stroll on Broadway.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy Parents: John and Linda producers are committed to caring for their animals Schouviller and the environment? The health and well-being of Town: Callaway our cows is of utmost importance on my farm, because Tell us about yourself, it leads to a wholesome and high-quality product. On the farm you live and/ my farm, we check on the pregnant cows every hour or work on, and your fuand have a video camera installed in their pen so we can ture plans. I live on a dairy watch them from the house at all times. Our farm underfarm just north of Calstands the importance of preserving natural resources laway, Minn. We milk 120 as we use liquid manure to irrigate our pasture, among Holsteins cows twice a day. other practices.

My jobs include milking Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its cows, feeding calves, bedsugar content. How would you address this concern ding the cattle and ensuring to consumers, especially parents with young chilthey all stay healthy. I like to be outdoors doing activi- Kelly Schouviller, 18 dren? Milk, white or chocolate, contains nine essential nutrients like calcium, potassium and vitamin D. As I ties like hunting and fishwalk through the lunch line at school, I watch the maDairy Star Sponsor: ing. I am president of our jority of my classmates pick up a carton of nutritious Dairyland Supply, Inc. Detroit Lakes FFA chapter chocolate milk. I know many of them would drink less Sauk Centre, MN and vice president of the milk if the chocolate option was taken away and forfeit 800-338-6455 Region I FFA. My future the health benefits it contains. Furthermore, chocolate plans are to attend North milk is being reformulated to reduce the sugar content Dakota State University for agronomy and education.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing by 40 percent. up on or working on a farm. A story that I always re- Parents: John and Patty member involves my cousins and me. Our cows do not Rosenhammer give birth to twins very often, but one day a heifer did. Town: Sleepy Eye Her calves were the cutest little brown bulls I have ever Tell us about yourself, seen. My cousin, Betty, and I decided that these calves the farm you live and/ were ours. We named our calves Little Joe and Hoss. or work on, and your fuEvery morning and night, we fed Little Joe and Hoss. ture plans. I am currently As little kids, we adored these calves. a freshman at South Dakota How would you reassure consumers that dairy State University, pursuing a producers are committed to caring for their animals degree in Agricultural Sciand the environment? Dairy producers understand ence. My family milks 185 that caring for their animals and the environment is Holsteins south of Sleepy crucial. They must take the best care of their animals Eye. About five years ago, to get maximum production. Also, most farmers treat we switched from milking their cows very well. They watch their diet and care for in a stanchion, tie stall barn Mary Rosenhammer, them. Farmers make sure their cows are comfortable to a double twelve paral19 and healthy at all times. These producers know that they lel parlor milking system.

Dairy Star Sponsor: must care for the environment to get greater production. My future plans include AMPI Caring for the environment also ensures that the world graduating from SDSU New Ulm Division will be a better place for the future of agriculture. with a bachelor’s degree 507-354-8295 Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its in Agricultural Science by www.ampi.com sugar content. How would you address this concern December of 2017, as well to consumers, especially parents with young chil- as maintaining and increasdren? Chocolate milk provides a way for people, espe- ing my involvement in the cially children, to enjoy a nutritious glass of milk with dairy industry and the promotion of it. great flavor. Chocolate milk does have sugar in it, but Tell us a unique story you have from growing up there are several other sports drinks that consumers give on or working on a farm. A unique story I have from their children with more amounts of sugar. Those other growing up on my family farm is from when I was redrinks also do not have nearly the amount of nutrition ally young. I would sit on the milking cart that had the in them. Chocolate milk contains protein for muscles, towels and teat dip on, and I would obediently sit there carbohydrates and B vitamins for energy, calcium and the entire milking, folding the towels to make it easier vitamin D for bones, potassium for fluid balance and for grandma to grab them from the cart. water for hydration. There is also low fat chocolate milk How would you reassure consumers that dairy available, which has lower amounts of sugar with the producers are committed to caring for their animals same nutrients. and the environment? I would reassure these consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment by stating that animal care and well-being is the top priority of dairy farmers. Cows produce the best when they feel the best, Parents: Tom and Mary so it only makes sense that farmers take good care of Portner their animals. In addition, dairy farmers reuse and recyTown: Sleepy Eye cle manure as a major source of fertilizer in their fields.

Tell us about yourFurthermore, farmers are reducing the use of water by self, the farm you live using waste water to wash down after milking. and/or work on, and Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its your future plans. I am sugar content. How would you address this concern currently finishing my to consumers, especially parents with young chilsenior year at St. Mary’s dren? I would address this concern by first reiterating Catholic School. FFA, Nathat chocolate milk is still milk. Milk, no matter what tional Honor Society, 4-H flavor, contains plentiful amounts of nine essential nuand basketball are activitrients. These nutrients are difficult to find elsewhere in ties of which I am heavily such high amounts, which makes milk all the better of involved in. I have grown up living and working Sabrina Portner, 18 a choice to feed your children. Secondly, since milk is an excellent source of calcium, it promotes strong bones on my family’s 270 cow and teeth, something everybody needs, no matter what Dairy Star Sponsor: Brown Swiss dairy farm. I age they are.

River Region Co-op also own my own herd of Sleepy Eye, MN twenty-eight Brown Swiss 507-794-3001 cattle. In the fall, I plan to attend Iowa State University majoring in Dairy Science.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Throughout the many years I have shown at our county fair, our cattle have rarely gotten loose. However, a couple years ago, we were in for a surprise when my sisters and I arrived at the barn to do morning chores. We found, standing in the barn, a police officer holding one of our cows, Lizard, with a tow rope around her neck. Apparently, she had gone for

Brown County

Brown County continued

Parents: Steven and Barbara Seifert Town: Sleepy Eye Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Sleepy Eye Public High School and active in many activities, including FFA, 4-H, theatre, choir, and band.

On my family’s dairy farm, we have approximately 300 Holstein milking cows. Next year I plan to attend Winona State University and majoring in business administra- Bethany Seifert, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: tion with a minor in music.

First District I am currently undecided on Association what I want my future ocLitchfield, MN cupation to be, but I should 320-693-3236 have many options with a business degree.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Every once in a while when I was younger, I would not finish my glass of milk at the dinner table. In an effort to have me finish my milk, my parents would tell me that the cows were crying because they were sad that I didn’t finish my milk. Immediately, I would drink the remainder of my milk, run outside and apologize to the cows.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I have lived on a dairy farm for my whole life, so I have experienced firsthand to what extent dairy farmers will go to in caring for their dairy cattle.

Dairy cows produce more when they are comfortable, so dairy farmers put in long hours to ensure that the cows are milked at the right times and fed properly. It’s also important for dairy farmers to protect the environment because they care for the health of their family and community.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Although it has been targeted due to its sugar content, the number of health benefits from drinking chocolate milk far outweigh the amount of sugar in the milk, as it contains nine essential nutrients. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, children who drink flavored milk are at a higher likelihood to reach their daily recommended intake of calcium. They are also less likely to consume beverages such as sugary juice drinks or soda which are low-nutrient options.

Carver County

Parents: Dan and Kathie Broll Town: Chaska Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a farm outside of Cologne where my family milks about 100 mixed breed dairy cows. My sister and I milk cows every night.

I plan to have fun being a dairy princess, spreading my knowledge. Then, Amy Broll, 17 I will be spending eleven Dairy Star Sponsor: months in South Africa as Genex/CRI a Peace Ambassador. Upon Bill Dinse returning to Minnesota, I 507-276-2865 plan on going to college.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm?

Our hay barn is full of round bales stacked sporadically, making it a great challenge and joy to play tag on them. During one game of tag, my foot got caught in the hay bale, tripping me. So I fell, face-first, into a nest of eggs. Of course that crushed nest just happened to be full of green rotten eggs. Even after showering, the smell of rotten eggs lingered. Thank goodness it was summertime!

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farmers are proud of the work they do and treat their animals like extended family. As farmers, we ensure the comfort of our cows by making sure they always have access to food and water, and they have fresh bedding and routine veterinarian checks. We are very conscientious about the land Carver County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015 • Page 3

Carver County continued around the farm and are sure to keep it clean and safe.

Farming is not just a job, it is a lifestyle.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk contains a healthy amount of natural sugar and is a great source of calcium. It contains the same nine essential nutrients that are needed each day as white milk does. For children, chocolate milk is a great choice because of the sweet chocolate part, which can lead them to choosing milk over sugary drinks. Drinking chocolate milk over white milk does not cause weight gain. Chocolate milk is a hydrating, satisfying dairy goodness.

Parents: Dan and Kathie Broll Town: Chaska Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a small dairy farm just outside of Cologne where we milk about 100 cows twice a day. My sister and I milk at night. I plan on going to college to be a doctor, but I won’t do that until after I return from my year abroad Anna Broll, 17 as a Peace Ambassador in Dairy Star Sponsor: Norway.

Genex/CRI Tell us a unique story Bill Dinse you have from growing up 507-276-2865 on or working on a farm.

In one of our hay mows, we have stacks of large round bales where I would play a lot. When I was eight, Todd, Amy and I were playing on the bales and swinging from the rope tied from the middle of the ceiling. While I was swinging on the rope, Todd jumped and grabbed the rope in mid-swing. I flung off the rope and into a bedding pile. At first it was scary, but then it was fun, and we did it over and over again.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would share with them the personal experience I had with the animals and show how we are committed to caring for them. I would also tell the consumers about how we, the farmer, care for our animals and the environment.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would tell the people that chocolate milk has healthy sugars in it, and when the people drink the milk and fulfill their sweet tooth, they wouldn’t be drinking those other highly sugared drinks. I would also tell them that chocolate milk is still extremely good for them even with the little bit of sugar added. It’s still essential to their diets.

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

I plan to attend Minnesota State University, Moorhead, where I will major in Laura Grimm, 17 English and Mass CommuDairy Star Sponsor: nications.

Bongards Creameries Tell us a unique story Norwood Young you have from growing America, MN up on or working on a 952-466-5521 farm. When I was younger, I begged my parents to teach me how to milk a cow. I thought all someone had to do was pull the teats to make the milk magically come out. That’s not exactly how it works. It’s a multistep process that includes washing the teats before and sanitizing them after. My parents explained everything step by step, and I had a greater respect for them after.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals

Carver County continued

Carver County continued

and the environment? Dairy farmers’ cows are like family. They’re the backbone of our lives, and so they deserve to be treated with kindness. We guarantee that they’re happy and healthy with clean, dry bedding and nutritious food that will keep them in the best health (and they seem to enjoy its taste). The environment is also important to us, and we use a combination of conservation, fertilization, and crop rotation to ensure it is cared for.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Part of the sugar found in chocolate milk is lactose, which is a natural and healthy sugar. Chocolate milk is full of the same vitamins and minerals found in regular milk, so it is far healthier than pop and juice.

Furthermore, recent studies have shown that chocolate milk is great for post-workout recovery because it has nutrients not found in sports drinks.

Every farmer I have met talks about how much work they put towards their animals. This means feeding them a properly mixed ration every day to cleaning out their pens. If farmers want their animals healthy, they need to keep their environment healthy, too. Farmers are known to be great stewards of the land by not polluting water ways and proper fertilization methods.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk may have 24 grams of sugar but you still get your nutritional benefits from the product itself. Milk is high in protein, potassium, and vitamin D. The amount of sugar in pure milk is about 13 grams and these sugars are not fortified like other sugary drinks. The other 11 grams of sugar is from the chocolate syrup put into the milk. If your child is getting their 60 minutes a day of playtime, these extra 11 grams will not affect the growing body.

Parents: Mark and Julie Hesse Town: Cologne Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My father and uncle are sixth generation dairy farmers and milk 120 Holstein cows. They also raise all the replacement heifers.

They raise corn, alfalfa and soybeans on 650 acres. I currently work at a daycare center. My future plan is to Katelyn Hesse, 18 attend a technical collage Dairy Star Sponsor: to extend my knowledge in Hastings Co-op child development careers.

Creamery Tell us a unique story Hastings, MN you have from growing 651-437-9414 up on or working on a farm. Growing up on the farm my favorite thing to do is to feed the baby calves and having all the kittens around you waiting for the milk to drip on to the ground so they can lick it all up.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? On my families dairy farm, the animals are well taken care of. They are kept in well ventilated barns with clean stalls and confortable bedding. There is a nutritionist that is consulted with, so they get the correct mixture of feed. The crops that farmers raise are to help feed the cows.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? If chocolate milk is the only milk that the child will drink, I feel that it is better than not drinking milk at all because this way they are still getting the nine essential nutrients that is in milk.

Parents: Greg and Andrea Wickenhauser Town: Cologne Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family dairy farm just outside of Cologne, Minn. We milk 80 Holstein and cross bred cows. I currently work off the farm, but help every chance I get. This is by running errands, feeding calves, milking cows or helping in Samantha the field. In the future, I plan on continuing working on Wickenhauser, 20 and off the family farm.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Tell us a unique story UFC Farm Supply of you have from growing up Waconia on or working on a farm.

Waconia, MN During the hay season, my 952-442-2126 brother and I would ride with my dad as he was raking hay. He would pack up our little teepee on the back of the tractor. We would ride with him out to the field where he would set up the teepee in a shaded spot on the edge of the field. He would rake hay, checking on us every pass he made.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? The cows on my farm have the opportunity to lay down in the pastures, in bedded pens and in the barn. We use many different forms of bedding so that each cow can choose what she is most comfortable with. When we plant our crops, we make sure that the proper amounts of fertilizers are applied. We always make sure that the animals and environment are well taken care of.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Children who drink flavored milk get more of the nutrients that are needed. They do not consume more sugar, fat or calories. Flavored milk is a favorite among children for the simple fact that it is flavored. There are low-fat and fatfree options for flavored milks which are great alternatives to soft drinks. Getting three servings of dairy every day is a great way to ensure that children are getting as much of their vitamins as possible.

Parents: Jeff and Tina Vinkemeier Town: Norwood Young America Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I will be a graduate of Central High School. I am an active member of the Benton Hilltoppers 4-H club and the Norwood FFA chapter. I show my dairy cows at different shows throughout Minnesota. I plan on attending Northeast Iowa Commu- Carley Vinkemeier, nity College for dairy science 18 and agriculture business. On Dairy Star Sponsor: my farm, we milk 125 cows Citizens Bank of Norwood of every breed. My tasks, on the farm, vary from milking Norwood Young America, MN 952-467-3000 cows to feeding calves to cleaning pens.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Over my years of being in 4-H, I have enjoyed showing my dairy cows. I will never forget my first year going to the Minnesota State Fair, but my fondest memory is when I got Supreme Champion at our county fair with my favorite Jersey cow.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farmers take care of their families and themselves, but they also care for their animals and land.

Chisago/Isanti County

Parents: Wayne and Dawn Blodgett Town: North Branch Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a graduate from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in animal science with a dairy production emphasis. For many years I have worked on the Buehring’s dairy farm where we now milk 340 Holstein cows. I am also currently working in the animal science field with future plans to become a dairy nutritionist and to start my own heifer raiser.

Becca Blodgett, 22 Dairy Star Sponsor: Fluegge’s Ag Mora, MN 320-679-2981 Werner Implement, Vermilion, MN 651-437-4435

Chisago/Isanti County continued on next page

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Chisago/Isanti County continued Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I was about 10 when I first got started on the dairy farm. I mostly just fed the calves as it was the “kids job,” but I always loved when I got to finish milking the cows after I was done with my calf chores. I always loved being with animals that were bigger than me, especially when I got to see my baby calves grow up and start producing milk of their own.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers work their hardest to ensure that their animals are producing the most for our consumers. In order to do this, we need to make sure that our animals are being treated well and are cared for better than we would take care of ourselves. Farmers also utilize many things such as spreading cow manure (a natural fertilizer) on fields to better help the environment.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is being considered the “candy bar” of milk. However, most people don’t realize that chocolate milk has the same nine essential nutrients as regular white milk. In recent studies, it has been proven that the benefits of drinking chocolate milk outweigh the negative sugar content. The benefits of low fat chocolate milk include high protein and nutrients needed to recover and refuel from physical activity; it helps build lean muscle after workouts and also contains many nutrients and electrolytes such as potassium, calcium and magnesium to replenish from any nutrients lost due to sweating.

Parents: Kevin and Tara Lindahl Town: Lindstrom Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I have grown up on my family’s dairy farm, Lindahl Farms LLC, my whole life. The farm is a second generation farm with approximately 300 head of cattle. This year I am continuing my college education at the University of Minnesota Duluth where I Maddie Lindahl, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: am to be majoring in either Fluegge’s Ag Chemical Engineering or Mora, MN Environmental Science with 320-679-2981 an English minor.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm.

Every kid who was raised on a farm can tell you they learned how to work hard. Trust me, that’s inevitable. One characteristic I didn’t anticipate to learn was leadership. I learned this mostly from showing cattle. As I grew so did my list of responsibilities, and with a slew of younger siblings and cousins I was the main example. (Which was not glorious, it was terrifying). But in every tough moment I learned how to lead by example and be my best self for others.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Come visit us. Many farmers would be pleased to show you how much work we put into our operations. I have never heard of a dairy farmer who didn’t pour his heart and soul into his work. We’re developing too, always searching for a way to make our machines more efficient and animals healthier. The benefits work both ways: a more efficient machine needs less diesel and a happier cow produces more milk.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Children need the calcium to build strong bones while they are developing. An abundance of nutrients are in milk regardless of the added chocolate. No such nutrients exist in beverages such as pop or some juices. If a child won’t drink white milk (or another source of calcium such as broccoli), it is better to let them get their nutrients than to not have them consume them at all. Subtract sugars from another less nutritious portion of their diet.

Chisago/Isanti County continued

Crow Wing County continued

Parents: Christopher and Melissa Skiba Town: Cambridge Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up working on my grandparents’ dairy farm where we raise all of our replacement heifers, as well as care for the milking herd. My roles on the farm consist of feeding calves, milking, and assisting in vaccinating and Meghan Skiba, 18 heard health. Currently, we Dairy Star Sponsor: are milking approximately Fluegge’s Ag 150 Registered Jerseys. My Mora, MN passion for dairy led me to 320-679-2981 pursue a degree in dairy science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After my undergrad degree, I plan to attend vet school.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My favorite memory of working on the farm was when I was very young and there were numerous mud puddles from a rain storm the previous night. I was wearing my rubber boots, and was advised to stay out of the mud. I was very intrigued by it, and was very embarrassed when my boots got stuck and I ended up with two filthy socks. As I had tears streaming down my face, my grandparents couldn’t help but laugh!

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers are passionate about their land and animals. Cow comfort is the number one priority on a dairy farm, as farmers work hard each day to make sure that the animals are healthy and comfortable in their environment. Cows that are healthy will have a very productive life in the herd. Therefore, it is to the farmer’s advantage to continue providing the utmost care to their animals, to ensure that the milk is of the highest quality.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is preferred more by young children than regular milk. Milk, whether it is flavored or not, contains nine essential nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Chocolate milk provides these essential nutrients, and it accounts for only 3 percent of added sugars, versus other sugary drinks like soda, which has approximately 45 percent of added sugar. Chocolate milk plays an important role in bone health and muscle growth, especially in young children.

a job for farmers; it’s a way of life. Farmers care for their animals the way they would care for their children. They treat them with kindness and dignity and will do whatever they can to make them comfortable to live a happy and healthy life. The environment means just as much as their animals, so the farmers will do anything to make sure our planet stays clean.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk, along with other flavored milk, contains nutrients that are important for the growth and development of kids and for the continuous health of adults. Kids tend to choose chocolate milk over other drinks, and therefore tend to drink milk more often. White milk contains 12 grams of sugar lactose, and chocolate milk has between 8 and 12 additional grams of sugar, and half of that is naturally-occurring lactose found in all milk.

Crow Wing County

Parents: Gerald and Melissa Koering Town: Fort Ripley Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am 18 years old and a senior at Brainerd High School. I live on a hobby farm with cats, dogs, chickens, pygmy goats, cattle, and donkeys. I work on my grandparents’ Leonard and Carleen’s Organic Dairy Farm. This is my first year as a dairy princess. After high Alyson Koering, 18 school, I plan on attending Dairy Star Sponsor: Central Lakes College in Modern Farm Brainerd for my Associative Equipment of Arts degree. I don’t have a Pierz, MN major planned yet, but it will 320-468-2161 involve animals.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. On my hobby farm, a few years ago, I had a hen that would not go back into the coop. I tried to catch her for awhile, but nothing worked. It was getting dark, so I gave up for the night. The next morning I planned on catching her while she was still asleep. When I walked outside, she was perched on the tallest vehicle in our yard. I don’t think she wanted to be caught.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Operating a dairy farm isn’t just

Dodge County

Parents: Patrick and Emma O’Brien Town: Kasson Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the fourth oldest of Patrick and Emma O’Brien’s six children. I live on my family’s dairy farm near Kasson, Minn. We milk around 110 Holstein cows and have about 200 youngstock and steers. My family farms around 300 acres. On the farm I take care of the Morgan O’Brien, 19 newborn calves, keep reDairy Star Sponsor: cords of the milk cows, help Carriage House Animal with field work and anyHospital where else I’m needed. I am Dr. Ross Bailey currently attending RochesKasson, MN ter Community and Techni507-634-6781 cal College for their veterinary technician program.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. The first time I drove the baler with a tractor for my dad was scary. I was an 11 year old learning to drive a tractor. I would let the clutch out too fast. My dad learned to stand at the back of the wagon, because he almost fell off one time. I also popped a wheelie by letting the clutch out too fast. Despite it all, my dad still calls me the best baler driver.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would tell them that producers care about their consumers. We are consumers of our own products too. My dad scrapes twice a day, gives fresh feed to all our animals and makes sure they are well bedded and well cared for. My dad knows his own family is consuming the products, too. All the decisions producers make are with their animals and the consumers in mind.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would say chocolate milk is a better bang for your buck. It is full of all the good nutrients that you need. It’s a better choice for your child than pop. Also, after a hard workout or practice, chocolate milk can help you regain some electrolytes.

Douglas County

Parents: Mark and Michele Fernholz Town: Hoffman Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am studying communications and psychology at Concordia College, Moorhead.

My family operates a 320 (soon to be 500!) Jersey cow dairy outside Kensington. I milk and work with our cattle for shows.

Kylee Lynae We show our cattle on all Fernholz, 18 levels from 4-H to World Dairy Star Sponsor: Dairy Expo. I enjoy being Pro-Ag Farmer’s Co-op with family and friends, Garfield, MN going out to eat and school.

320-834-2271 My future plans are to go to graduate school and become a speech therapist.

Douglas County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015 • Page 5

Douglas County continued

Douglas County continued

Fillimore County continued

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My family competes at open shows during the summer, and being the oldest of my siblings and cousins I am also the “babysitter” and “teacher”. When halter breaking our show cattle, we were taught never to let go of the halter and keep working with the animal until they are show ready. This has resulted in many draggings and funny stories of runaway cows and children.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers are very committed to caring for their animals. The cows that are in the farmer’s barns are their careers and livelihoods.

A farmer wants his animals to be as healthy and well cared for as possible so they can produce high quality milk for the consumers. Farmers take care of the environment because they use the land to graze their animals and produce feed. When the environment is healthy, it creates a positive chain reaction making land, feed and animals healthier.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk typically has higher sugar amounts compared to normal white milk, but chocolate still carries essential nutrients and vitamins that are needed. Drinking chocolate milk still gives you the same Vitamin D and calcium that drinking white milk would. There are many options of where you purchase your milk too, and by reading labels you can find a brand that uses less sugar.

Parents: Bruce and Deborah Waldvogel Town: Osakis Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently attending my second year at Saint Cloud Technical and Community College and want a degree in the health care field. I love living on a farm, and I would not trade it for anything. We milk about 115 cows in a tie-stall Tayler Waldvogel, barn. My parents not only 20 have crops for the cows but Dairy Star Sponsor: also grain farm. I currently Osakis Creamery have four horses, and they have always been my dream Association and passion. My dad did not Osakis, MN like the idea of having hors320-859-2146 es on the farm when I was younger, but I think they have finally grown on him! My future plans are to be a part of the farm and work in the health care field.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When someone asks about a story from my childhood years, I always tell this one.

When I was a kid, I always wanted a horse. At the time, my parents did not want me to have a horse, so I would go to the other farm where we had a hired man who had his horses there. Eventually, I got the nerve to ride calves.

I got a halter and started out leading it around, then riding it! We live next to a very busy road where many people could see me, but that did not stop me from riding a calf around the front yard.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? There are two things that pop out for me. One of them being that it is their job. You don’t treat others or act poorly at your own job. Otherwise you would end up losing your job. If farmers treat their animals poorly and do not care for them, they will not succeed as a farmer. Also, farmers are not a farmer because they hate animals or want to treat them poorly. You pick your occupation in something you are interested in and love. I cannot speak for all farmers, but if they hated what they do, they would not succeed and excel in being a producer in dairy products.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Milk is very important to young children because of the calcium and vitamin D levels. Chocolate 2 percent reduced fat Swiss milk has 25 percent vitamin D and 30 percent calcium. 2 percent white milk has the same contents for vitamin D and calcium but children do not like to always drink regular white milk. They like the chocolate better. Chocolate milk does have 29 grams of sugar, but when comparing it to other favorite juices that many people think are good for their children, have a ton of sugar in it, too. Apple juice is a favorite and said to be good for children, but have you ever looked at the nutrition label?

Apple juice has 24 grams of sugar along with many other juices that parents with children think are good for them.

Just like every food and drink out there, you will have positives and negatives to every kind of food and drink.

Milk has always been important in our family with every meal we have.

major in agricultural education and minor in animal science.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. One of my favorite parts of dairy farming is showing cattle at the fair. My sister and I began showing novice calves when we were just two years old, with the help of our parents.

Each year we dressed up in matching cow print outfits for the occasion. My mom would lead the calf and my sister and I would each have our own strap to hang on to.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I believe the best way to reassure a consumer is to tell the story of our farms.

I enjoy speaking about how my family runs our farm with the environment and animals’ best interests always in mind. I think by also adding in what my tasks on the farm are and answering any question they may have is also important. I believe that connecting a face to the product will comfort consumers. After all, dairy farmers are every day people who love their jobs.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would tell the consumers that chocolate milk contains nine essential nutrients and only three percent of the added sugar in the diets of two to eighteen year olds. Chocolate milk is also a great choice after a workout because it contains the right mix of protein and carbohydrates in order to build muscle mass and refuel. Chocolate milk is a great choice for any age of consumer.

Parents: Gary and Beth Sabolik Town: Kensington Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a dairy and grain production operation near Kensington, Minn.

The hard work ethic and family values I’ve acquired with these experiences will help me achieve my goals.

My chosen field of study is Agricultural Communications. I enjoy learning and Danna Sabolik, 19 meeting and educating othDairy Star Sponsor: ers about the production of Ag Country Farm the world’s food supply. I Credit Services am passionate about the agDouglas County ricultural industry and con320-763-3184 serving this way of rural life.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Recently we’ve been in the process of expanding our dairy. Being included in this experience has taught me a lot about the economics of operating a modern dairy. I believe getting this unique experience early in life give me a better perspective of why continual learning is so important, and why I really need to apply myself to maximize my time at college.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? First, dairy animals are the lifeblood of the economic portion of a dairy farm. This inherently means farmers are motivated to care for them in the best methods possible. Simply, healthy and happy cows equate to more dollars. Second, farmers, almost without exception, are farming for more reasons than financial.

Most are very much committed to the lifestyle which includes long days outside, filled with opportunities to watch life develop with the birth of a healthy calf or the rescue of a sick cow. They are caring and committed individuals almost without exception.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I believe that honest, clear, and encouraging communication is always the best choice. There is a lot of miscommunication and mistruths regarding agriculture in society right now. As a communications major in the agriculture field, I will work hard to educate and spread the truth about agriculture and its importance in our lives. Chocolate milk, in particular, could be addressed in this manner, pointing out the importance of all the nutritional benefits of the milk along with alternatives for the chocolate and or the ability to balance a child’s diet. I am passionate about agriculture and am ready and willing to make a difference to educate our consumers and help ensure our way of life. I look forward to promoting milk and all of its unique products to help advance, not only our society, but also societies across the globe. Thus increasing our demand curve and helping people who are willing to help produce milk and its many products.

Fillmore County

Parents: Todd and Stacy Leiding Town: Fountain Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the 18 year daughter of Todd and Stacy Leiding.

I am the fourth generation on our family’s farm, Shir-man Registered Holsteins. Our family farm currently milks around 65 registered Holsteins in a tiestall barn. In addition to cattle, we farm around 240 acres of alfalfa, corn, and oats. In the fall I plan to attend the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to

Haely Leiding, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: AMPI Rochester Division 507-282-7401 www.ampi.com

Parents: Todd and Stacy Leiding Town: Fountain Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a senior at Lanesboro High School.

I am the fourth generation on my family’s dairy farm Shir-Man Registered Holsteins where we milk around 65 cows. My responsibilities on the farm include milking, calf care, Kayla Leiding, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: show heifer care, feeding, AMPI bedding, and any other Rochester Division odd jobs assigned. I will 507-282-7401 attend the University of www.ampi.com Minnesota-Twin Cities this fall to major in agricultural education, the leadership and communications portion, and minor in animal science.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When my sister and I were little, we had some friends over for our birthday.

None of them knew what a farm was like, so we decided to show them around. They got to see the baby calves and kittens, and they also got to experience a baby calf being born. They were so excited, and it was a great opportunity for me to show others what life is actually like on a dairy farm.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers take pride in what they do. Every dairy farmer puts his animals first by making sure that they are well fed and comfortable before. Dairy farmers provide healthy and clean environments for their animals as well as individual care to ensure that they are producing a wholesome product. By caring for their animals and land, dairy farmers are able to produce healthy and nutritious products for the consumers to use.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk contains the same 9 essential nutrients as white milk does. When children drink chocolate milk they are consuming more of their nutritional needs; they do not consume more sugars, fats, or calories. Flavored milk accounts for only 3 percent of added sugars and 2 percent of calories in children’s diet. The low amount of sugars in chocolate milk is worthwhile because of the many nutrients that children gain from consuming this nutritious product.

Page 6 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015

Freeborn County

Parents: David and Kristine Johnson Town: Hartland Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I’m a freshman in college currently studying music education.

I grew up, and still live on, a small farm outside of Hartland. My family has a small herd of Jersey cattle that we milk, and I show them in 4-H. The last two years I had worked on Presley Johnson, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: an organic Ayrshire farm where I milk cows and take L&D Ag Services care of calves.

Hartland, MN Tell us a unique story 507-845-2100 you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My favorite part about living on a farm is being able to play outside with the different animals. I would always help my dad with chores, and he taught me everything I know about having a farm. Having a farm definitely brings a family closer together.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers take great pride in caring for their cattle. A healthy herd will produce more and be less likely to contract mastitis and other illnesses. Cows are fed a ration high in ground corn, alfalfa hay, and silage to ensure they have all the nutrition they need to produce quality milk. Farmers also practice manure management so they will not contaminate creeks, rivers, lakes, and even ground water.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Compared to soft drinks, chocolate milk has less sugar. Even though the sugar content is higher in chocolate milk, it still has the same nutritional benefits of plain milk. It is a good way to introduce young children to dairy products so they are more apt to choose it in the future.

Goodhue County

Parents: Ted and Lora Keller Town: Lake City Tell us about yourself, the farm you live on, and your future plans.

I am seventeen years old and am graduating from high school at the end of May. I love spending my time behind the sewing machine sewing and quilting numerous projects to enter into the local county fairs. I also love cooking and baking. I live Juliann Keller, 17 on and help operate our 200 cow Holstein dairy farm. I Dairy Star Sponsor: plan to attend the University Brad Huneke Hoof of Wisconsin-Stout for famTrimming ily and consumer science Zumbrota, MN education.

507-421-8334 Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I was in eighth grade and went to go check the dry cows before milking for any calves or close cows. As I looked around, I saw a cow laying down with a calf next to her all dried off. This cow also had a foot sticking out of her. I decided to grab the leg and start pulling. Minutes later, I experienced pulling my first calf!

I ended up saving a twin heifer calf.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers come in all shapes and sizes, 98 percent are family owned and operated, keeping the tradition alive. Milk and other dairy products produced by these dairy farmers are the most highly regulated source of food in this country and follow the highest standards of food safety and quality. Biotechnology allows farmers to grow more crops using the same amount of land, water and resources. The farm community commits to economic, environmental and social good.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk, along with other flavored milks, offer the same nine essential nutrients as white milk and a smaller amount of added sugar compared to other beverages. The sugars in flavored milks only contribute 3 percent of the

Goodhue County continued added sugars in children’s diets. Research has shown children that drink flavored milk meet more of their nutrient needs, and don’t consume more added sugar, fat, and calories, and additionally aren’t heavier than non-milk drinkers.

Parents: Ted and Lora Keller Town: Lake City Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a firstyear student at University of Wisconsin-Stout majoring in cross-media graphics management. My major consists of marketing, printing, advertising, and other different opportunities in the printing industry.

I live and work on my fam- Samantha Keller, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: ily’s 200 Holstein cow dairy Midwest Livestock farm, and we have about 400 Systems acres. My goal in the future Pine Island, MN would be to combine my 507-356-8349 future job in the printing industry with promoting dairy at the same time.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My favorite thing to do while milking cows in the stanchion barn when I was in third to fifth grade was to track bloodlines in the milking herd. We give each of our cows a unique name, and I used to look at every ear tag when I was washing off the cows. I like to compare cows to their mothers, and I liked to keep track how much milk my favorite cows milked.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farm families like mine have the responsibility to take care of our animals and environment for today and generations to come. On my family’s dairy farm, our cows receive regulatory veterinary care and nutritionists make sure the cows are staying healthy and well nourished. The U.S. dairy industry produces a gallon of milk with 90 percent less land, 65 percent less water, 75 percent less manure, and a 63 percent smaller carbon footprint compared to past decades.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk is a nutrient rich powerhouse and is a great beverage for children and all ages to enjoy. Flavored milk only adds 3 percent of the added sugars in children’s diets. Plus both white and chocolate milk contains nine essential nutrients in just one serving. Over 90 different companies today have changed the formulas so chocolate milk is lower in both sugar and total calories. Children who drink chocolate milk get a nutritious beverage.

Parents: Kent and Deborah Mills Town: Lake City Tell us about yourself, the farm you live on/or work on, your future plans.

I grew up on my family’s 280 cow dairy farm outside Lake City, Minn. I am active in FFA, 4-H, speech team, and cross country. We milk three times a day in a double 12 parallel parlor. Our cattle lie comfortably in our free stall barn with free choice feed. My family strives to Maggie Mills, 18 produce high quality milk.

Dairy Star Sponsor: I plan on attending the UniArden Vangsness, versity of Minnesota majorDHIA ing in animal science, and a Kenyon, MN minoring in journalism.

507-789-5767 Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. On my family’s dairy farm, it is my responsibility to help with daily calf chores. This involves caring for the calves by providing them with feed and water, comfort, and health needs. While doing my daily outside chores, I am often caught singing or dancing while I work. I have been spotted multiple times in mid-song by our milk haulers, custom chopper guys, and milkers. Who says work can’t be fun?

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? A comprehensive program has been created called FARM (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management), a nationwide, verifiable animal well-

Goodhue County continued being program that ensures consistency and uniformity to on-farm animal care and production practices. As cow comfort and health is of the utmost importance to dairy farmers, we also follow strict regulations and best management practices to protect our land, water, and air for future generations.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk contains 134 calories per serving, which is only 31 more calories than white milk. Milk companies across the U.S. have reformulated flavored milk to lower total calories, decrease added sugars and fats, while preserving its nutritional value and taste appeal. Chocolate milk is only 3 percent of all added sugars in children’s diets versus sodas and fruit drinks that are 45 percent. Milk is a nutrient powerhouse that is available in a variety of flavors.

Parents: Bernardo and Cenorina Monjaraz Town: Goodhue Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Goodhue High School in Goodhue. I plan on going to college after I graduate.

I want to go to Rochester Community Technical College for the 2+2 program in nursing and then transfer to Winona State University. Mayra MonjarazI want to work as an RN in Olmos, 18 Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Dairy Star Sponsor: MN. I then plan on going Dairyland Equipment back to college to become a Service, Inc. doctor. I work on Burfeind Plainview, MN Dairy Farm where we milk 507-534-3161 about 255 Holsteins. I am in charge of milking on the weekend both morning and night shift.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. It was a normal day on the farm and I had to go get the cows. The cows were out in the pasture. I could have walked, but that just seemed like it would take more time. I decided to take the four wheeler. I didn’t see that the electric fence was up and ran right into it at full speed. The worst part was that I was getting shocked constantly and couldn’t get out of the fence. I was so embarrassed. I tried to call my boss to come help me but when I was on the phone all you could hear was my sobbing.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? They are committed to the care of their animals because if they didn’t care for their animals they would not be producing the milk that they produce.

They also help the environment because they don’t just plant corn every year they rotate their crops so that the soil can regain its nutrients from the other crops that was planted the year before.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Although chocolate milk has more sugar content than white milk, children are more likely to get the recommended intake for calcium if they do keep drinking chocolate milk. This means that these children are less likely to drink pop and more sugary juices.

Hennepin County

Parents: Jeff and Shelley Bursch Town: Greenfield Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My younger sister and I have grown up on our grandparents farm.

We learned how to milk cows, drive machinery and provide overall care to the animals. Between the two of us, we split the work evenly and have learned to Sydney Bursch, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: work together by doing so.

By learning about the farm Munson Lakes Nutrition as I have grown up, I want & The Country Store Howard Lake, MN a future in agriculture, spe320-543-2561 cializing in animal or dairy science and plan to go to

Hennepin County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015 • Page 7

Hennepin County continued Hennepin County continued South Dakota State University in the fall. way to go in order to get milk into their system. Never Tell us a unique story you have from growing take milk out of a child’s diet. It is vital for a strong, up on or working on a farm. Growing up on a farm, active body and a healthy immune system. one of the coolest things to witness is a baby calf being born and being able to help the mother cow through the process. Up until a couple years ago, we only had black and white Holsteins on the farm, but this changed when we got a red and white Holstein bull. I remember waiting for the first red and white calf to be born and won’t forget the day when my red and white Parents: Matt and Pam Hendel calf, Brownie, was born.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy Town: Caledonia producers are committed to caring for their ani- Tell us about yourmals and the environment? People who don’t under- self, the farm you live stand, might think that farmers look at their animals as and/or work on, and your a way to make money. As a farmer, you love the cows future plans. My name is and other animals on the farm. If you view them only Lauren Hendel. I live on as money makers, how could you enjoy them and have a dairy farm just outside fun with them? Farmers have been under attack for the of Caledonia where we way they use pesticides and fertilizers. What people are currently milking 330 don’t realize is that farmers take the time to calculate Holsteins and 30 Brown how much is needed for safe use on the fields. The Swiss cows. I have worked EPA approves the products and the people applying on the farm for the last six them have to pass a test to obtain a license. If the farm- years milking and feeding Lauren Hendel, 17 ers weren’t doing it right today, the crops in the future calves. However, from a Dairy Star Sponsor: young age, I was always would be affected.

Swiss Valley Farms Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its running around helping 563-391-3341 sugar content. How would you address this concern with what I could. Next www.swissvalleyfarms.com to consumers, especially parents with younger chil- year, I plan on attending dren? Parents with younger children can understand the University of Minnejust how picky they can be. Children will refuse to eat sota- Twin Cities to pursue a degree in animal science. and drink what is good for them, but they need the nu- Tell us a unique story you have from growing trition tat these foods offer. This is why chocolate milk up on or working on a farm. Growing up on a dairy can be a good alternative for children who refuse to farm, I have had many experiences that most people drink white milk, because it still offers the calcium and my age have not. Some of my favorite memories invitamins for their growing bodies. The concern about volve giving tours at our farm including foreign visithe calories in chocolate milk can be monitored and the tors, family, friends, and younger children. Over the chocolate milk intake can be limited. Just like every years, we have had visitors from over thirty different countries visit. It’s always fun to share not only my other food, everything is good for you in moderation. farm experiences living in the U.S. with them, but also hear their stories. I always learn something new.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would tell consumers my perParents: John and Staci sonal story of how my family works to take very good Scherber care of our animals. We care for our cattle around the Town: Rogers clock. We use soft sand bedding to keep them com Tell us about yourfortable. We make sure they always have feed. This self, the farm you live is prepared specifically for the cows through a special and/or work on, and recipe called TMR (total mixed ration). We also make your future plans. I am sure their barn always has clean, fresh water and alleys 21 years old with eight and pens are kept clean. Farmers are very concerned brothers and a young sisabout the environment. We are feeding people off the ter. I am currently living at land that we use, so we need to make sure we take care home working on the dairy of it so we can continue using it in the future. farm and at a pre-school. I Chocolate milk has come under attack due to work on my parents’ dairy its sugar content. How would you address this confarm where we milk 68 cern to consumers, especially parents with young cows. My favorite work Quinci Scherber, 21 children? Chocolate milk is not only delicious, but it is to take care of the newDairy Star Sponsor: is also very nutritious. It includes the same 16 essenborns and calves we have on the farm. I plan to finish Munson Lakes Nutrition tial ingredients that white milk does. Drinking chocolate milk is always a better choice than soda or energy college and study animal & The Country Store Howard Lake, MN drinks; it has natural vitamins and nutrients. The matherapy for special needs 320-543-2561 jority of the sugar in chocolate milk comes naturally children, or work on the from lactose. Energy drinks and sodas have added infarm. gredients in them that are not healthy or natural. These Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. beverages also have added sugar.

I think some of the funniest memories I have growing up on the farm are of the cows getting out. They always find a way to be on the other side of the fence.

I remember Dad waking up all the kids and walking outside to cows at the front door. I would go to school exhausted and tell all my friends the cows got out at Parents: Philip and Sher3:00 in the morning. Or, we would finally leave for een Hauge vacation and someone would call saying “your cows Town: Sunburg Tell us about yourare out,” and we would turn around and head home.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy self, the farm you live producers are committed to caring for their ani- and/or work on, and mals and the environment? I don’t think you can your future plans. I am a work on a farm without a love for your animals. That’s junior in college majoring half the joy. It’s like they become part of your family. in Dairy Food Science and You work with them 24/7, so you get to see that they I would like to transfer to do indeed have personalities and spunk. Besides the the University of MN to fact that your income depends on them, and you need finish my major. My sister to take detailed care for them. As for the environment, and I grew up on our famfarmers grow in a respect for nature and the world ily’s five generation farm around them as they work the land and become in tune south of Sunburg, milking Brielle Hauge, 20 with the things that grow. It’s important to protect the 40 cows with dad and mom Dairy Star Sponsor: and farming 280 acres gifts God gives, as they sustain our life on the farm.

D&D Ag Supply Chocolate milk has come under attack due to of land. On weekends, I & Construction its sugar content. How would you address this con- help with milking, feeding Pennock, MN cern to consumers, especially parents with younger calves, baling, rock pick320-599-4466 children? Milk is so important for children to grow up ing, etc. I have been very strong and healthy. Sometimes children have a hard active in sports, 4-H, and time drinking plain milk, so chocolate milk is a great

Houston County

Kandiyohi County

Houston County continued FFA. This year I received the FFA American Degree in Louisville, Kent.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Besides our farm being 120 years old, we are still milking in the same barn my great-great grandfather built. As dairy farmers, we take pride in our cows. Showing them at the county fair is a joy. My sister and I have been doing this for years. One unique story I like to tell is the first calf I showed was when I was nine years old it is 13 years old and I was able to show her my last year in 4-H as a 11 year old in the aged cow class. She is still healthy as a horse.

When she won Grand Champion in the three and four year old class, I couldn’t wait for a heifer to show it at the fair but for ten years she had all bulls. Then when my 4-H years were done, she finally produced a heifer last year.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? At a young age, my sister and I were taught the importance of caring for our animals on the farm. In order to produce this wholesome milk that we help provide on the consumer’s table, we have to make sure the animals are well-cared for. It starts with taking care of the cows first and that is what farmers do. They take pride and provide the animals with a nutritious diet, good care, and a comfortable environment. Therefore, dairy farmers are committed to their animals to provide high-quality milk.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? It is true that there is more sugar in chocolate milk than in white milk but that is for flavor. Chocolate milk might encourage children to drink milk.

Milk provides 9 essential nutrients that help keep your bones strong and is important for your health. There is very little sugar added compared to white milk but these nine essential nutrients in dairy are important for young growing children. Milk enables you to have strong bones, teeth and the needed calcium in your diet.

Parents: Victor and Debbie Keller Town: Hawick Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the youngest of seven.

I work on my brother’s farm (Scott Lieser), which was previously owned by my grandparents (Ron and Doreen Thorson). We milk Holstein dairy cows and our barn holds 78 milking Jackie Keller, 20 cows. I really enjoy singDairy Star Sponsor: ing, walking or any sort of D&D Ag Supply activity, and I enjoy talk& Construction ing with friends and famPennock, MN ily. My future plans are 320-599-4466 to major in theater at St. Cloud State University, with an emphasis in acting/directing or tech/scenic design.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. There are so many stories that I have at the farm that it is hard to only tell one unique story. The most memorable story I have though was my first calf delivery.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers are passing their legacy to the next generation. All producers want their work to continue through the years in hopes that in each generation it will improve.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would tell the parents that all types of milk have the same basic vitamins and calcium that children need. So, why are we focusing on the sugar content of it all? As long as their children are getting their three servings of dairy a day, the little bit of sugar that is in chocolate milk shouldn’t matter.

Page 8 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015

Le Sueur/Scott County

Parents: Tim and Sandy Breeggemann Town: Shakopee Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the youngest of five children and have lived on a dairy farm my whole life.

We milk 120 cows and crop farm 250 acres. On the farm I pick rocks, rake hay, and feed calves. My plans are to attend Manka- Tessa Breeggemann, to State University and 18 pursue a career in dental Dairy Star Sponsor: hygiene.

Lano Equipment of Tell us a unique story Norwood, Inc. you have from growing up on or working on a Norwood Young America, MN 952-467-2181 farm. A unique story that has occurred on our farm is that in 1998 strong winds blew through buildings, resulting in half our barn getting torn off and the death of many cows. So, as a result, we decided to renovate the parlor into a modern milking parlor which has had many benefits.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? It’s not a job; it’s a lifestyle. This is why dairy farmers are so passionate about farming. Not only do heathy cows make their business thrive, it’s also important to serve the consumers, assuring that they get their daily dose of dairy.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Dairy is essential in any diet and although there have been concerns regarding chocolate milk in adolescents diets, chocolate milk actually contains many beneficial and key nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. Moreover, it is a protein source for muscle repair, and the chocolate in the milk boosts the carbohydrate supplied to your muscles and liver.

Parents: Don and Kerry Malecha Town: Northfield Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I come from a family of seven kids, and am actually a triplet. My parents milk 102 cows, and raise most of the calves. I also work on a 350-400 cow dairy near Hastings. I get up at 3 a.m. six days a week to Ashlynn Malecha, 18 milk for them in their douDairy Star Sponsor: ble 12 parlor. I also am an Kasper Dairy Supply on call milker at a 50 cow Northfield, MN dairy near Elko/New Mar612-483-1323 ket.

Werner Implement Tell us a unique story Vermillion, MN you have from growing 651-437-4435 up on or working on a farm. Growing up on a farm was the best thing any kid could ask for. All of us grew up alongside my parents, learning to work and take on big challenges and responsibilities. We have made so many memories while spending time together, which is something I will always cherish. Of course, not all time on the farm was work, and the many squirt gun fights with empty dry cow Tomorrow tubes will always be a favorite!

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Our cows are our family.

We spend more time with the cows than our human family sometimes. But that is how much they mean to us, and their well-being is our well-being! When they are ill, we are right there to try and make them better.

When they are hungry, they are fed a carefully measured ration to meet all of their dietary needs. On top of that they get regular pedicures, dry and soft beds to lay on and are warm in the winter and cool in the summer… it’s a cows life!

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? If you compare the label of a jug of chocolate milk versus sugary fruit juices and soda, you will

Le Sueur/Scott County continued quickly see the differences in nutrition. A bottle of pop contains virtually all sugar and empty carbohydrates, whereas the chocolate milk contains the same nine essential nutrients as white milk (A, D, B12, potassium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, calcium and protein) but with the added flavor for a taste kids love. They are healthy and delicious.

Parents: Mike and Darcy Schloesser Town: Le Center Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Tri-City United High School and will be graduating in May. I live on a second generation family owned dairy farm.

We have 325 milking and dry cows with 250 head of replacement heifers. Leah Schloesser, 18 We raise our replacement Dairy Star Sponsor: heifers on site and run 600 Dairyland Equipment acres, which are used for Plainview, MN & feeding the livestock.

Montgomery, MN Tell us a unique story 507-534-3161 you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When I was eleven, I convinced my parents to let me join 4-H. My dad showed in 4-H when he was growing up but my mom had never participated. After watching the dairy show at our county fair, I finally persuaded them that this was something I really wanted to do. It wasn’t an easy start, but I have learned so much over the years. I wouldn’t trade my experiences, good or bad, in 4-H for anything.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy cows are our livelihood. If I want to be successful I need to keep my cows comfortable and happy. I do that by cooling them with fans and sprinklers when it’s hot, keeping them well bedded in ventilated barns, and keeping fresh feed in front of them. Their feet need to be trimmed regularly and vaccinations kept up-to-date. We also have to follow state guidelines and all aspects of the dairy are inspected regularly.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk has all the major nutrients that are found in white milk. These nutrients are important for optimal growth and development, health and disease prevention. Chocolate milk only contains 3 percent of added sugars in the diets of children, that’s 13 grams or 60 calories/cup. The following shows a few flavored drinks and what their added sugar content is: grape juice-52 grams, sports drinks-34 grams, energy drinks-36 grams, soda-39 to 46 grams.

Parents: Rick and Ann Stocker Town: Jordan Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a senior at Jordan High School, but I am a full-time student at Normandale Community College as PSEO student.

I live and work on my family’s dairy farm. We milk 80 cows, raise all of our heifers and steers, and Emily Stocker, 17 run about 350 acres. Next Dairy Star Sponsor: year I will be attending the Ross Equipment University of MinnesotaLonsdale, MN Twin Cities to study com507-339-1812 munications.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm.

My favorite thing to do as a kid was play in our cotton seed pit in the hay barn with my brothers. When the pit was full we could jump from the stacked hay into the cotton seed, which we would do for hours.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I tell them that dairy farmers want to care for their animals and the environment and make sure that both are healthy because that’s what a farmer’s job is dependent on. A farmer

needs his or her cattle to be comfortable and healthy to produce properly. Many cows have clean water, food in front of them, and a comfortable, safe place to rest, which is more than some people have.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate may have sugar, but this sugar along with its amount of carbohydrates and protein makes it the perfect drink after a workout. The nutrients and even the sugars help refuel and recover a body.

Parents: Lloyd and Diane Tiede Town: Le Center Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a senior at Tri-City United in Montgomery, Minn. My family has been milking cows for 3 generations now. We milk about 40 Holsteins in a stanchion barn located a few miles south of Le Center, and Molly Tiede, 18 our milk is sold to BonDairy Star Sponsor: gards. I plan to go to South River Country Co-op Dakota State University Hastings, MN in Brookings next year to 651-437-3527 major in Agricultural Education and double minor in agronomy and equine science.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When growing up on a farm, you are always outside playing with your siblings. I think the most unique experience I have had around the farm is all of the critters my siblings and I would find and bring into the house. I remember bringing some baby pheasants into the house and having them fly around. They got stuck behind our TV! How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers are always committed to caring for their animals and the environment around them. As my father would always tell me when I was young and learning to take care of the animals, “How would you like it if you had to sleep on a cold, wet, or dirty floor? Or to not be fed on time every day?” I have learned that our animals aren’t just a way we make a living, but they are part of our family and we need to take care of the things we love.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is a great way for children to enjoy the beverage and also get many of the same essential nutrients that regular milk offers. The idea of having something more sweet tends to enthuse children and since chocolate milk offers many of the same essential nutrients and vitamins as white milk, it is making a positive movement in our children’s diets.

Lincoln County

Parents: Mike and Teresa Drietz Town: Canby Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work with my dad on a 50-cow dairy farm south of Canby. We also raise 50 head of beef cattle with a finishing operation. My dad additionally farms several hundred acres of crop land. Needless to say our farm is quite busy. I am currently attending the University of Minnesota-Crookston working towards a major in preveterinary medicine and a minor in ag-business.

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

Lincoln County continued on next page

Lincoln County continued

McLeod County continued

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When I was little, my sister and I used to play in an old tractor cab. We would bring a toy doctor kit from the house out to our “play house” and pretend to be vets. When dad was milking, we would sneak into the calf pen and pretend the calves were sick and “doctor” them. It’s crazy to think about that now because that is what I’m going to school for.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? If anyone were to have doubts as to the care of dairy animals, I would tell them to go straight to the source. My best advice would be to ask a dairy farmer. They are the only ones who know the real truth. There are tons of farmers who engage their farm businesses in social media, so getting a hold of a farmer should not be a problem. Many have blogs or post pictures of their animals to explain to consumers the real truth. Our ultimate goal is to get out the truth.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Unfortunately, chocolate milk has been recently victimized by many misconceptions in the media. It is important for consumers to understand that although it may be high in sugar, it is also high in lots of other essential nutrients our bodies need. Parents also need to remember is that moderation is key. Too much of anything can be bad for you, even water. Chocolate milk is not the only beverage containing sugar out there for kids, but it is a much healthier alternative to pop and juice.

Parents: Rick and Mindy Jeurissen Town: Lester Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on and your future plans. I am currently a freshman in college majoring in early childhood education and minoring in special education. When I’m not attending college, I assist on my family’s third generation dairy farm where we milk Genevieve Jeurissen, 150 cows in a milking 19 parlor, raise young stock, Dairy Star Sponsor: and plant and harvest our Jungclaus Implement crops. Because I’m maGlencoe, MN joring in early childhood, 320-864-5118 I will one day be running my own preschool classroom and have the opportunity share my dairy stories and information with my students.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up or working on a farm. When I was younger, I used to search all over my family farm for the biggest and muddiest puddles I could find. One day, I found a mud puddle in our steer lot and decided to pursue my findings. It was all fun and games until I found out that I was stuck, hip high in the mud and couldn’t get out.

The unique part about this story is that the gentle giants surrounding me seemed to sense my distress in attempt to get out and started licking me as if to make me feel better. It wasn’t funny at the time, but I look back now and laugh.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farming is a job ensuring quality care of dairy animals and the environment 24/7. Dairy producers work hand-in-hand, as a team, with experts in food nutrition and veterinary care. Together, they provide animals with nutritious diets and on-the-farm animal care like doctors provide for us.

As for the environment, producers are conservationists. They use only the necessary amount of water and energy needed to complete a task, and they use natural fertilizer to replenish the nitrogen fixing bacteria in their fields, which reduces the need of commercial fertilizers and the water amount needed for crop growth.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Recent statistics state that 50 percent of children between the ages of 2-12 are in a “calcium crisis.” Chocolate milk consists of the same nine essential nutrients present in white milk, all of which are proven to be beneficial for a child’s growth and development. The nutrients present in chocolate milk also give children the energy to do the activities they love most and have been proven to benefit post exercise muscle recovery and toning.

McLeod County Parents: Jerry and Connie Eggert Town: Hutchinson Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a senior at Hutchinson High School, where I am very involved in the FFA, both on the chapter and regional level. I work at my aunt and uncle’s dairy farm where we milk 40 RegisSarah Eggert, 17 tered Holsteins. My duties Dairy Star Sponsor: include feeding calves and First District milking. Next fall I will be Association attending South Dakota Litchfield, MN State University with a 320-693-3236 major in agricultural education.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Although I don’t have a specific event to choose from, my favorite memories would have to be of the time spent at our county fair showing my dairy animals with my family. It has become an event I look forward to each summer because I get to spend time with my family, while working with the animals that I love, and getting the chance to share my story with consumers.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would inform the consumer that dairy farms try their hardest to make sure their animals are kept comfortable and calm to ensure the healthy, wholesome products that they love. In addition, we also make sure to take care of environment and land so it’s good for future generations. On our farm, we practice many recycling techniques and find ways to protect our planet.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Although a lot of consumers turning to a energy drink or juice after a long day in the sun, chocolate milk is the best option for consumers, especially children. It contains less than half of the sugar content and provides you with your nine essential nutrients.

Finally, it is a natural source of protein that children need to build lean muscle and help their bones become stronger and healthier.

Parents: Mike and Reada Lukes Town: Lester Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I have three older siblings, and 13 nieces and nephews. I enjoy working on the farm, riding horse, playing nine different instruments and hanging out with friends and family. Currently, I work on Benson Dairy Ashle Lukes, 19 Inc. There, I enjoy helping Dairy Star Sponsor: milk, feeding, and field Ram Buildings Inc. work. In the future, I hope Winsted, MN to be married to Trent, and 320-485-2844 helping him take over his family farm.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When most people say they have to go milk, they usually mean cows. However for me, that was not true. For six years when I said I have to go milk, I was going to milk sheep. I was a shepherd, and at one point in time I was an assistant shepherd for 700 sheep, and three llamas. It was my high school summer job, and I loved it!

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015 • Page 9

McLeod County continued How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Cows have a pretty easy life. They are served their feed, have their nails done, get massages, have things made especially for them, and, last but not least, they have free health care. Cows are pampered in every way possible. Cattle are many farmers’ main source of income. They are our livelihood. We, farmers, take great pride in having healthy, happy cattle. Many say that a healthy cow is a happy cow, and farmers want nothing but happiness for their cows. We are also concerned about the environment.

That is why we are always finding new ways to improve soil health, conserve water, and make the most amount of food possible with as little ground as possible. Did you know that when we grow corn for our cattle we are producing over 100 more bushels more than what we were 50 years ago? We are always trying to find new and innovative ways to improve the environment around us, because as you all know, we only get one.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Yes, there is more sugar in chocolate milk then what there is in white milk. However, it is better to have your child drinking chocolate milk, than some sort of sugary pop, or juice. Chocolate milk also has a lot of nutrients packed into it, like the nine essential nutrients that are need for proper body function, as well as sodium, which is lost in sweat. All of us know that kids run around and sweat a lot. Instead of giving them some Gatorade, try chocolate milk. It’s more natural for the body, and has the right amount of sodium needed to replenish the body after a long day of running around.

Parents: Ron and Denise Schmidt Town: Hutchinson Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. When I am not busy with my duties as a college student, I enjoy hanging out with friends, attending tractor pulls, and farming with my family. Since the time I could walk, I have been feeding cows, caring Cheyenne for calves, milking cows, Schmidt, 19 and assisting with fieldDairy Star Sponsor: work on my family’s 60 Agri-Trading cow dairy. Even though I Hutchinson, MN love working at my fam800-328-5189 ily’s dairy, I was offered the opportunity to work for a neighboring dairy farmer three years ago and jumped on it. I plan to graduate next spring from Ridgewater College with a degree in farm operations and management. After school, I will continue working for both dairies and hope to someday marry and continue the tradition of farming with a family of my own.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a dairy farm. Most kids don’t have the opportunity to go to work with their parents on a daily basis. From the time I was born until I was too big to fit in my car seat, I would spend countless hours riding in the tractor with my dad during harvesting or spring planting. I learned not only how to operate the tractors, but also how to take a very refreshing nap. It’s moments like these that make me feel truly blessed to have grown up on the farm.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farming for us is not only how we earn money to support our families, but a lifestyle. The reason we farm is because we truly care for and love the animals we raise and the land we use to grow our crops. If we do not treat all of our resources respectfully, taking special care to keep our animals happy and healthy and our land in good shape, our animals are unable to produce wholesome milk. This means that we would not make money and you as consumers would not have wholesome dairy products to enjoy.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? In comparison to sports drinks and carbonated beverages such as pop, chocolate milk actually has less sugar. As a parent it is your right to not want your children to drink milk. They can easily consume McLeod County continued on next page

Page 10 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015

Mcleod County continued their recommended three servings of dairy a day by eating cheese, yogurt, or other wholesome and nutritious dairy products.

Parents: Allen and Lisa Stender Town: Lester Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently working at Lachermeier Dairy in Mayer, and I help out on my Grandpa’s dairy farm in New Germany. At Lachermeier Dairy I help milk 105 cows, and at my Grandpa’s I help with his 65 cows. This fall I will be Rachel Stender, 17 attending Southwest MinDairy Star Sponsor: nesota State University in Bongard’s Creameries Marshall. While at SMSU Norwood Young America, MN I will be majoring in sec952-466-5521 ondary education with degrees in social sciences and psychology. I plan to minor in agriculture.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a dairy farm. I always wanted something to do in my Grandpa Harlan’s barn while I was there in the summer. Since I was only six at the time, he let me be his personal helper by dipping his wash towels in the water and handing them to him. I still do towels like he taught me. When I wasn’t helping him milk, I was rollerblading or biking in the barn when his cows were out.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farmers are committed to their animals 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our cows are well cared for because they are getting the proper nutrition, proper care, and clean barns to live in. Farmers have veterinarians come out to ensure that animals are healthy. Farmers spread manure on fields to help fertilize the soil, and we have tunnel ventilation in our barns to keep our cows the ideal temperature and lower energy bills.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? All milk is wholesome and nutritious whether it is flavored or unflavored. All milk contains the nine essential nutrients. Chocolate milk only has about 60 more calories than regular white milk. I would suggest to the parents that chocolate milk is a way to help children get their calcium intake which many young children lack.

Meeker County

Parents: Larry and Pam Radunz Town: Litchfield Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the 6th generation dairy farmer on my mom’s side and 6th generation on my dad’s side. I now live and work on my family’s dairy farm. We milk 90 Holstein cows. I plan to attend Southwest Minnesota Alison Radunz, 18 State University majoring Dairy Star Sponsor: in pre-occupational thera- Munson Lakes Nutrition py. After graduation with & The Country Store my masters, I plan to work Howard Lake, MN around the Litchfield area 320-543-2561 and incorporate animals into my therapy practices.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When I was four years old, all I wanted for Christmas was a galvanized pail.

My grandma and grandpa gave it to me for Christmas decorates with Pooh stockers. I was so proud to help my Grandpa feed the cows with a pail of my own. I was fascinated with the cows because they were so big and gentle towards me. I have always loved taking care of the cows. I loved to feed them, brush then, and of course lean on and hug them. I was so proud to help in any way I could on the farm. My little pail and I fed many cows. I was so proud to work alongside my grandpa and be a real dairy farmer helper.

Meeker County continued How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? There is no other occupation that is 24/7 and 365 days a year besides farming. The dairy farmers know their cows and care for them. They know how to keep their cows healthy and what they need to be comfortable. Farming is not just a career, it is a way of life. I would reassure the consumers that the commitment we have to our farm is from caring for our animals and the environment. Without this care and concern, we would not be able to produce food for the world. If dairy farmers did not care for their work and animals, they would not be a part of such a stringent lifestyle.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Even though chocolate milk has sugar in it, it still has lower sugar content that other drinks such as pop or sport drinks. Studies have shown that after sports, or just as a treat, chocolate milk is better for you and will hydrate you faster than the high natural and artificial sugars in sports drinks, pop and flavor enhancers. Chocolate milk still has all of the nutrients as white milk. With chocolate added, it is more of a fun nutritious treat, that is healthy and re-energizing.

As a wholesome and nutritious product, and with the added sugar of chocolate, it gives the chocolate-loving consumer a satisfying treat.

Parents: Richard and Julie Thompson Town: Litchfield Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work on my family’s 400 registered Jersey cow farm.

When I am done with college I plan on going back to the family dairy and becoming an assistant herdsman.

Tell us a unique sto- Nicole Thompson, 19 ry you have from growDairy Star Sponsor: ing up on or working Schultz Milk Hauling on a farm. I never grew Litchfield, MN up on a farm as a young 320-693-2524 child. When I moved to Wagner Dairy, LLC Minnesota, almost eight Litchfield, MN years ago, my moms fam320-693-3894 ily had a dairy farm and ever since I have been hooked.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I know farmers care for their animals without a doubt. So no one should be concerned about animals not being cared for or if they are affecting the environment Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk had been reformulated and is low fat. Instead of processed high fructose corn syrup in the milk, there is sugar from sugar cane and beets. Parents should encourage chocolate milk because milk contains many nutrients that are needed to promote healthy bodies and minds.

Turn to Page 20 for Mille Lacs County

Morrison County

Parents: David and Betty Czech Town: Little Falls Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My name is Taylor Czech, and I am one of the three Morrison county dairy princesses. I have three brothers and am the youngest of four. I live on a Holstein dairy farm and milk 200 cows in a double twelve parallel parlor. Some of the chores I do on the farm are milk cows and feed calves. I am also involved

Taylor Czech, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Pierz Co-op Pierz, MN 320-468-6655

Morrison County continued in many activities, including figure skating and Just for Kix dance. After high school, I plan to attend Minnesota State University-Mankato to study in the biology field.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. A unique memory I have from living on the farm would have to be when I was little. I would wake up in the morning grab my blanket, and come in the barn in my pajamas and talk to the cows.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Someone who is dedicating their life to work on a farm and spend their days with animals, truly cares for their animals. I believe that in the eyes of a person who does not live on a farm, it may appear the animals live in a harsh environment, but what they do not know is how dedicated a farmer really is to all of his or her animals. Cows need to be taken care of and live in a good environment to be able to produce milk.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Parents think that if you had the choice for your kids to have chocolate milk or 100 percent fruit juice that juice would be the better choice. Even though 100 percent fruit juice can be a good choice, chocolate milk can be as well. Parents think chocolate milk is full of sugars that are unhealthy, but what they do not know is that milk has natural sugars that are healthy for you, making up half of the sugar count. Chocolate milk has nine essential vitamins that are in white milk, which most fruit juices do not give you such as protein, vitamin B, calcium and phosphorous. Chocolate milk is a healthy choice that kids and people enjoy to drink for a yummy and nutritious snack.

Parents: Mark and Catherine Hebig Town: Flensburg Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My name is Renee Hebig and I work for Hourscht Dairy. I have been working at this farm for over a year and a half now. They have 70 cows that I milk by myself with six autoRenee Hebig, 18 matic takeoffs. When they need the help, I will also Dairy Star Sponsor: feed calves and help haul Kulus Feed boxes during harvest time.

Flensburg, MN I plan to attend St. Cloud 320-632-3136 State University and pursue a career in mathematics education. While I am attending college, I will still be working at Hourscht Dairy as I am going to live at home and just drive back and forth from college.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. One night when I was working at my Uncle Peter’s, he went to church and my brother and I were getting ready to do chores. We were walking out to the barn and my brother thought he was going to hit me with a snow ball. I looked back and saw him throw it, so I ducked from his throw and he hit the barn window and broke it. The window was fixed when Peter arrived home from church.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would explain to the consumers that farmers take classes to learn about how to improve things on their farms. They also have veterinarians, nutritionists, and calf specialists who come out to the farm to teach them how to care for their animals properly. I would also explain to consumers that the animals are the farmers’ livelihood, so why would they want to hurt their animals. Their animals are where their money is coming from. I would tell consumers that when farmers rotate their crops they are caring for the environment. When farmers rotate their crops they are helping to prevent diseases that ruin farmers’ crops. They also are helping the crops replenish the nutrients they need by rotating the crops.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? The first thought that came to my mind when I saw this question was to look at the content Morrison County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015 • Page 11

Morrison County continued of sugar in both pop and chocolate milk. The results I found were that they are both very close in sugar content. My next thought was to look up health benefits of chocolate milk. I would drink milk over any other beverage because of the health benefits that it has for you. Chocolate milk is a natural source of high-quality protein to build lean muscles. It contains the right mix of protein and carbohydrates scientifically shown to refuel exhausted muscles and help return to peak performance. It also provides fluids and electrolytes and minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium and sodium to rehydrate and help replenish critical nutrients lost in sweat. As you all probably know, I didn’t just have all this information in my head. I did some research on the gotchocolatemilk.com website and found this information. After finding out this information and explaining this to a parent of a young child, I would then ask them if they would want their child to drink pop which has almost the same sugar content as milk or if they would want them to drink milk which has several other beneficial health aspects to it.

My choice would be to drink chocolate milk. If, after hearing all of this, parents are still on the fence about chocolate milk they could take this into consideration.

In one cup of milk there is 300mg of calcium but in order to consume that much calcium you would have to eat ten pieces of bread. There are 366mg of potassium in a glass of milk, which would be equal to eating one and a half bananas. There is 8g of protein, 103IU of vitamin D and 105IU of vitamin A in a glass of milk, and in order to obtain all that you would have to drink five glasses of orange juice. The decision is yours.

You can either drink one glass of milk or you can eat ten slices of bread, one-and-a-half bananas, and five glasses of orange juice to obtain all the nutrients in a glass of milk!

Parents: Allen and Diane Herzog Town: Freeport Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I consider myself to be a hard working and independent.

I live and work on a dairy farm with a herd on 98 Holstein cows. My plans for the future are to attend Mayville State University for a double major in fitSara Herzog, 18 ness and wellness and Dairy Star Sponsor: sports management and Sunrise Ag also play basketball.

Buckman, MN Tell us a unique sto800-307-5346 ry you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I was just a kid being a kid playing around the farm until I got tired and decided to lay down and of course I am a kid so I didn’t just lay on the ground and take a nap, I laid on the barn cleaner. I fell asleep for a few hours and when I woke up mom was right there taking a picture.

As I grew older and older I was able to do more on the farm. As all farming kids know as you get older your dad starts depending on you more and you get stuck doing more milking and more chores around the farm. I am so very proud of being able to grow up on a dairy farm.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers are one of the most trustworthy, caring people around. We care about our animals because they care about us.

We want our animals to be comfortable with us because otherwise we are just going to have a difficult time with them cooperating with us. The environment is just as important to us, because that is the reason why we are living the way we are living. As long as the environment is good, we are good.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk has not been a problem in the past, so why is it a concern now. Of course white milk is more healthy than chocolate milk, but chocolate milk has just as much protein and nutrition in it as white milk does. I do not think the parents have to worry about the sugar content in the chocolate milk.

If anything, parents can us chocolate milk as a treat to their kids and have them drink white milk otherwise.

Mower County

Parents: Mike and Vicki Rossow Town: Dexter Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Photo Not and/or work on, and your future plans. I am Available 18 years old and a senior at Hayfield High School.

I live on a dairy farm outside of Dexter, Minn. My family milks 33 JerseyHolstein crossbred cows.

Tell us a unique story you have from grow- Abby Rossow, 18 ing up on or working on Dairy Star Sponsor: a farm. A story I have Meyerhofer Bagging from growing up on a Stacyville, IA farm would be from about 507-259-5863 a year or two ago, when my sister and I went to another farm about 10 miles from our house to buy a calf from my family’s friend. We didn’t have a trailer or anything to bring him home, so we had to make something work with just the old pickup truck. We got there and put the calf in the cab of the truck with my sister, and she held it as I drove us home. It was definitely one of the funniest things I’ve seen.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? To reassure consumers dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals, I would say that they make sure their cows are as healthy as they can be so that they provide the best product possible.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk contains vitamins, so I recommend it for everyone.

Parents: Ed Smith & Cheri Bentzin Town: Rose Creek Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My name is Lea Semones. I live on our farm where we milk approximately 390 Holsten cows. My soon to be stepdad Ed Smith, his brother Andy, and father, Albert, own our farm. I just recently got accepted to the Lea Semones, 19 nursing program at RiverDairy Star Sponsor: land Community College, Foremost Farms USA I plan to graduate in three 800-362-1916 years with my Bachelors www.foremostfarms.com of Science in nursing.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I don’t have a particular unique story but I would like to say that it’s a great opportunity and I am proud to have had it. You really learn a lot growing up on a farm. Even if you didn’t grow up on the farm, I hope everyone has a chance to visit one someday.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would mention that some things have to be done on a farm that may look inhumane but are truly good for the cow. For example treating a pinched nerve. Also, inform them that we do things like breed for small cows so that they fit in the stalls comfortably and not to mention the water beds some have for their cattle.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? For example, if a child will only drink chocolate milk I would inform the parent that if having a little extra sugar is what it takes to make sure they are consuming the appropriate amount of dairy that is fine.

Children have a higher metabolism than we do and that sugar won’t hurt them especially when you think about all the good nutrients they are receiving from the milk.

Mower County continued

Parents: Rick and Tracy Smith Town: Adams Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I was born and raised on my family’s dairy farm, where we milk 240 head of Holstein cattle.

I am currently a junior at University of WisconsinRiver Falls studying dairy science management; this career makes me excited McKinzie Smith, 21 to be a part of the dairy inDairy Star Sponsor: dustry. After graduation, I S&S Dairy Systems LLC plan to work for a nutrition St. Charles, MN company as well as assist 507-932-4288 my dad the management of the calves on the farm.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I am big into showing dairy cattle. A couple years ago a good friend of mine was having an article done on her 4-H experience. I went to go get one of our calves for some pictures. I opened the gate the calves took off, with the halter on and the rope in my hand. She dragged me a couple yards on the gravel into the grass. Needless to say, I got up looked at my friend and just started laughing. Probably one of the funniest moments of my showing career.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would inform them that farmers take great pride in making sure their animals are always comfortable, and they do their best to maintain a sustainable environment. I may even invite them out to our farm so they can see for themselves what we do to assure our animals are well taken care of.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? There is continuous research being done to find natural sugars that are sweet to enhance the flavor of chocolate milk but also lower the sugar content. One thing they are trying is Monk Fruit Juice as a sweetener in milk, which is enhances the flavor but lowers the sugar content, versus other high in sugar sources.

Parents: Christine and Troy Sukalski Town: Leroy Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I’m a senior at Leroy Ostrander High School and my future plans are to ship to basic training in the fall for the Minnesota National Guard, and then to Texas for my medic training. I plan to attend University Stephanie Sukalski, of Minnesota to become a 18 large animal veterinarian.

Dairy Star Sponsor: I live and work on a 400 cow dairy farm and own a Kruegel Gas Service 800-464-6121 small herd of Jerseys.

507-346-7362 Tell us a unique story www.kruegelgasservice.com you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When I was four, we moved our entire milking herd to a new facility due to a lost battle with an antilivestock activist group. We had been fighting for years to expand but eventually gave up and left the farm my mother’s family had farmed and lived on for generations.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? On a dairy farm, you will often find the dairy farmer up before the sun, caring for his cows. A main focus for the farmer is to keep the cows happy, healthy, and comfortable. Cows always come first, above all else.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is a great way for athletes to fuel up after an athletic event such as a run or a basketball game. It tastes great and helps to replenish the nutrients and vitamins lost during the activity.

Page 12 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015

Murray County

Parents: Greg and Madeline Vander Wal Town: Slayton Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman in at the University of Northwestern-St. Paul.

I run on the UNW track team. I am currently working toward majoring in Kinesiology, and then going on to graduate school. My dad has a 600 head dairy Dana Vander Wal, farm and in the process of 19 expanding to 800. I used Dairy Star Sponsor: to work with the calves. I Blue Hilltop, Inc. bottle-fed and gave grain.

Lake Wilson, MN I don’t do much with our 507-879-3593 calves any more because my dad has hired someone to take care of them.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. These are more fun stories. We had a foreign exchange student when I was a sophomore in high school. He loved to do crazy things.

One time we got tractor tires and some helmets and found the biggest hill we have on our farm. We got inside the tire rolled down the hill. Also, we love to play in cotton seed, so one time we decided to camp out in the cotton seed.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Animals that are not cared for do not produce more; therefore, less profit. The goal is to make the animals as comfortable and as healthy as possible. It makes no sense to abuse our animals.

The need to be conscience of the dairy farmer’s environmental practices is vital for the future of their dairy farms. If the land is not taken care of, they can’t continue to provide the high quality foods necessary for the cows. Farmers have a great love for the outdoors and animals in general.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Milk has nine essential vitamins and minerals and is very necessary for a healthy lifestyle. If chocolate milk, with some sugar, will get a child to drink milk, then it is far better than having a child drink pop, which has more sugar and actually depletes the body of calcium. Chocolate milk is a better choice than pop and fruit drinks that are not 100 percent natural.

Nicollet County

Parents: Dan and Shelley Schugel Town: New Ulm Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a freshman at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa studying history. My parents milk Holstein cows and crop farm in rural Courtland.

My older brother works for Northstar Select Sires, and Stacey Schugel, 19 his wife, Ashley, works for Dairy Star Sponsor: Genex CRI in Shawano, AMPI Wis. My sister, Danielle, New Ulm Division is a graduate of Minnesota 507-354-8295 State University-Mankato www.ampi.com and works full time.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. During one of the winter months when I was in fifth or sixth grade I was helping my dad outside with the steers. I was always curious of the scene in The Christmas Story where Flick gets dared into having his tongue stuck to a pole. Before I knew it, my dad was running to the milk house to fetch some hot water.

During that time one of our very sweet Brown Swiss came over to me and started licking me and before I knew it I was free.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would reassure consumers that dairy producers take great care of their animals just as they would for their families. Producing high-

Nicollet County continued quality milk begins with taking good care of our cows.

We work with veterinarians to keep them healthy and well-nourished the best as we can. On warm summer days we constantly have fans in use with misters to keep cows cool and comfortable, and provided access to plenty of fresh water.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would assure the parents that chocolate is packed full of nutrients just the same as white milk.

On average, flavored milk contributes just 3 percent of added sugars while pop and fruit drinks contribute to 45 percent of added sugars in a child’s diet. Children who drink flavored milk have better quality diets and do not have higher intakes of added sugar or fat. They are more likely to be at a healthier weight compared to kids who do not drink flavored milk.

Parents: Paul and Mary Struss Town: Courtland.

Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on and your future plans. I am currently serving my second year as a dairy princess for Nicollet County. I live on an 80-cow dairy farm near Courtland, Minn. My brother and I are the sixth generation on our farm that was started in 1871. Megan Struss, 19 On our farm, we milk HolDairy Star Sponsor: steins, red and white HolAMPI steins, and Brown Swiss.

New Ulm Division I am currently a freshman 507-354-8295 at South Dakota State Uniwww.ampi.com versity in Brookings, S.D. where I am double majoring in agriculture business and dairy production.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When I was nine years old, my brother and I were outside helping my dad with chores. I noticed a raccoon coming out and ran inside the barn to tell my dad. The raccoon started to chase me, so my brother decided to chase after the raccoon while screaming at it. Then, it ran into one of the pens in the barn, where my brother just stood outside the pen yelling at the raccoon. It got out of the pen and started chasing me again. At that time, my dad noticed what was going on and hit the raccoon in the head with a shovel and killed it.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I tell consumers that dairy cows are well taken care of by farmers for many reasons. We love our cows like other people love their dogs or cats. Also, if we don’t take care of our cows, they will not produce well and they are not profitable.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I tell consumers that chocolate milk contains the same nine essential vitamins and minerals as white milk. I would also tell them that milk is essential to a child’s diet to help them grow up healthy, and sometimes, flavored milk is the only way to get a kid to drink milk. There is also not that much extra sugar in chocolate milk compared to other foods with sugar.

Nobles County

Parents: Bryan Voss and Becky Bosma Town: Worthington Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a small farm outside of Bigelow, Minn., but moved into town when I was nine years old. I may not live on a farm anymore, but I am frequently out at Ocheda Dairy, where my father works, doing whatever I can to help out! I am currently attending Minnesota West Community College and will graduate there this spring.

Justyce Voss, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Jaycox Implement Worthington, MN 507-376-3147

Nobles County continued Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When I was younger, all I wanted to do was go out to the farm with my dad.

I loved watching the cows get milked and I especially loved spending time with the newborn calves. However, I was never able to bring myself to watch a cow give birth, because I was little and naturally I thought it was gross. Well one day I decided I wanted to be a big girl and watch. My dad started pulling the calf and I started to look away, but right before I did the calf was born and I was in awe. Ever since that day being with the calves and watching cows give birth has been my favorite.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? There are a lot of people who are led to believe that our farms operate like large factories, and this is not the case. Dairy producers are committed to keeping their animals as healthy and as comfortable as possible. Not one cow on our farms goes untreated if they are sick and they are also well fed and live in comfortable living spaces. A healthy cow is a happy cow and that is something I truly believe.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would tell consumers that I understand where their concern is coming from and although chocolate milk does have a larger sugar content than regular milk it is okay to drink on occasion. A key to a healthy diet is dairy products whether that’s coming from cheese, yogurt, or milk having at least three of those products every day is important and although regular milk is ideal chocolate milk is a sweet treat that is also accepted.

Olmsted County

Parents: Tom and Penny Berg Town: Pine Island Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently attending Iowa Lakes College in Emmetsburg Iowa, where I am majoring in welding. But even now that I’m at college I still manage to get some good quality farm time in. As a family and Kalley Berg, 19 with a few part time emDairy Star Sponsor: ployees we run a 200 cow Land O’Lakes dairy farm right outside of Melrose, MN Pine Island. After graduat320-256-7461 ing from college, I plan to balance a welding job with my current farm life.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My unique story happened four years a go in early February at 1:30 a.m. in the morning in frigged -20 below winter weather.

My parents woke up to check the cow cameras and saw a cow calving. When they got up to the barn she already had pushed the calf out, but they then noticed she had a prolapsed uterus. We called the vet out right away. When the vet arrived we helped him put her internals in warm water to balance her body temperature. Then we gradually guided them back in. After that we stitched her up so that she would not prolapse her uterus again. Most cow that this happens to cannot get pregnant again, and may get very ill. But four years later, she has had three calves, and is still a high production milker. All in all it was an eye opening experience for me, and it just comes to show that miracles do happen.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Inform them that in a way cows have the same needs as people. Like people cows have there own sleep number bed, but its sand bedded to fit to the comfort of the cows body. We clean our barn, waters, and freestalls daily to ensure cleanliness and comfort to our cows. Our cows also get free range of food that is changed twice daily to ensure freshness.

We also care for our environment by spreading manure on our fields, which is a natural fertilizer that increases the water-holding capacity of soil by 20 percent.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this conOlmsted County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015 • Page 13

Olmsted County continued

Otter Tail County continued

cern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Yes, chocolate milk may have a higher sugar content but having the right serving size of chocolate milk is still better than a can a pop or other sugar high drinks. Also in other sugar high drinks there is no nutritional value, where as in chocolate milk there is calcium, protein, and vitamins that are needed in a well balanced diet. Chocolate milk is also a great post workout drink. Chocolate milk compared to water or other sports drinks has double the carbohydrates and protein content which is great for replenishing sore and tired muscles.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My sister went out to feed the yearling heifers and they were being pushy.

She took the little bucket she had and hit one heifer on the back but what she did not expect was the bucket to come back at her. The bucket came back and smacked her in the face, giving her a cut coming down her forehead to her nose.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? On our family farm, we vaccinate our calves and grow strong heifers. From health maintenance to every day feeding and bedding we assure that the cows coming into our family barns in the future will be healthy. We are always considering the next generation and using prevention methods to cure problems before they happen. I use every day as a day to have the most amount of time with each animal as I can.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is a great way to get kids to drink milk and the amount of sugar in it is less than most juices. Chocolate milk may have more sugar in it than regular milk but it also has a lot of potassium and calcium which is great for bone growth. Chocolate milk also has high levels of vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 which is all needed in high amounts for healthy kids.

Parents: Jerome and Karen Sheehan Town: Rochester Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities majoring in agricultural education emphasizing in teaching. On my family’s farm, we milk 300 Holsteins on two locations.

Our farm was started by Ellen Sheehan, 19 my Grandpa, Jim Sheehan, Dairy Star Sponsor: and is now owned by my Plainview Milk Products dad, two uncles, and three Plainview, MN of my cousins. We milk 507-534-3872 our cows in a double 12 parlor on one location and in a tiestall barn on the other. We raise all of our heifers and feed our calves pasteurized milk.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I can think of many unique stories that I have from growing up on a farm.

One that comes to mind though is spending time in the barn doing homework. Whenever I would have questions while doing homework I would go down to the barn where my cousins would show me how to do the problem on the barn white board. I’m pretty sure that I was the only person in my school who would have dots of iodine and manure on my textbooks.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? The number one priority on our farm is cow comfort. My grandparents always said “If we take care of the cows, then they will take care of us.” If our cows aren’t comfortable then they won’t produce as much milk. Farming is a business and if we want to have a successful business then we have to make sure our cows are as happy as possible or our business will not be successful.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk contains the same nine nutrients as white milk does, and chocolate milk also accounts for less than 3.5 percent of added sugar intake in children ages 6-12 and less than 2 percent in teens.

By removing chocolate milk from children’s diets, it hardly makes a difference for sugar intake. However, by removing chocolate milk out of children’s diets, removes critical nutrients for growth and development.

Otter Tail County

Parents: Thomas and Melody Roden Town: Henning Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am attending the University of Minnesota-Crookston with a major in animal science. I will be graduating spring 2016 and will be going to graduate school getting a master’s Marissa D Roden, 20 in nutrition. On my famDairy Star Sponsor: ily farm, we own a herd Nelson Creamery of 52 registered Jerseys in Association a tiestall barn. I work on Nelson, MN Dryer Dairy in Ottertail; 320-762-0115 this is a commercial herd of Holsteins with about 650 cows. I also own my own herd of seven registered Jerseys.

Pine County

Parents: Frank and Shelley Moyer Town: Hinckley Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work on a tie stall milking operation where we are currently milking 66 Holsteins. I am a second year student at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, where I am majoring in dairy science and I hope to Hannah Moyer, 20 work for ABS or Genex as Dairy Star Sponsor: an AI technician and herds Fluegge’s Ag mapper after graduating.

Mora, MN Tell us a unique sto320-679-2981 ry you have from growing up on or working on a farm. One day a family came to the barn to see how a dairy farm operates.

They watched us milk and ‘helped’ do chores. After many questions, explaining how everything works they left and I was finally able to breed the cows in heat. All of a sudden, I turned to see three little boys, running towards me. They hadn’t left. Not only did I answer many questions on feeding and milking cows but also explained the entire process of breeding cows.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Many people hear farmers talk about “if we take care of them, they take care of us,” but if we want consumers to know, we need to share how farmers do this. One way we have improved the life of our cows is we put in a new, insulated, maternity barn. We also take care of the environment by using manure as fertilizer; this way we reduce the need of using man-made fertilizer.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I understand the concern parents may have with the sugar content in chocolate milk; however, I think there is solution which is slightly overlooked.

I don’t think chocolate milk is a bad thing, I enjoy in quite a bit; however, you should drink it in moderation. If parents don’t want their children drinking milk with lots of added sugar you could dilute the chocolate milk with regular milk, or simply serve chocolate milk on special occasions.

Pipestone County

Parents: John and Berlinda Vander Wal Town: Pipestone Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My name is Amy-Jo Vander Wal and I live on Newalta Dairy in Pipestone, Minn. On my farm, we milk 1,800 Holstein cows. My family and I moved from Canada almost ten years ago, when I was eight years old where Amy-Jo Vander Wal, we had a 200 cow dairy.

18 My future plans include Dairy Star Sponsor: attending college at South Gorter’s Clay and Dakota State University Dairy Equipment and majoring in animal Pipestone, MN science and ag business.

507-825-3271 Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Many people have told me that when I was growing up I followed everyone around on the dairy and was always asking questions related to dairy. It got to the point that my dad would stop answering me. He was probably hoping that I would work more and talk less. Not much has changed from then because I still love to ask questions and learn about the dairy industry.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? To reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment, I would tell them that dairy farmers care for their cows and environment to keep their cows healthy so they produce good quality milk. Healthy cows produce healthy milk and dairy farmers’ existence depends on that quality to keep their business going and profitable.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would address this concern to consumers by telling them that chocolate milk contains less sugar than pop and it has additional benefits of protein and calcium. Research shows that it is one of the best things to drink after exercise. It’s a great tasting drink that can replace drinks such as pop that negatively affects children’s health.

Pope County

Parents: Douglas and Lisa Pastian Town: Brooten Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I come from a family of five growing up in a small community.

I enjoy hunting, fishing, four wheeling, and spending time with family and friends in my free time.

I milk for Radermacher Dairy, LLC. We milk 180 Morgan Pastian, 17 cows in a double 12 para Dairy Star Sponsor: bone parlor. Cows are AMPI housed in tunnel ventilated Paynesville Division free stall barn and are bed320-243-3794 ded with sand. We milk www.ampi.com twice a day. My future plans are to go to Ridgewater College for dairy management starting fall semester of 2015.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My friends and family thought I was crazy for working on a dairy farm, but not a day goes by that I am not thankful for the opportunity that I was given working for such a great family operated dairy farm.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farmers do their best to provide adequate housing by providing clean, dry bedding, easy access to feed and water 24 hours a day. A cow must be well cared for and content to be a good Pope County continued on next page

Page 14 • Dairy Star •Saturday, May 9, 2015

Pope County continued

milk producer. Dairy farmers are adopting new ways to manage cow manure to help improve water quality and public health by following regulations and the best management practices to protect the health of their cows, their family, and their environment.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Milk provides nutrients essential for good health, but kids drink more when it’s flavored. Flavored milk contains the same nine essential nutrients as white milk. Children who drink flavored milk meet more of their nutrient needs then non-milk drinkers who drink juice drinks or pop. Drinking low-fat or flavored milk helps kids get their recommended three daily servings of milk. If taken away kids will drink less milk and fewer nutrients.

Rice County

Parents: Raymond and Bridget Pieper Town: New Prague Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up living and working on my family owned and operated farm where we milk 450 Holstein cows, raise all our young stock, and run about a thousand acres of land. On the farm my main jobs are to milk cows Emily Pieper, 19 and care for the calves. I Dairy Star Sponsor: am currently attending the Ross Equipment University of WisconsinLonsdale, MN River Falls with a major in 507-399-1812 agricultural business and a minor in dairy science.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. As a kid, two of my sisters and I were responsible for feeding the calves for evening chores. Something that should have taken us an hour max, would all too often end up taking us all night because we would always get distracted. Whether we were building a fort with straw bales or playing with the kittens, to getting in water fights or sledding down the hill in winter, we always made chores interesting and fun.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? It is important that people know their dairy products are coming from farmers who deeply care for their animals. Dairy farmers provide their cows with a clean, dry environment, and mix a fresh, nutritious ration every day for their cows so they can produce the quality, wholesome, nourishing product of milk. Farmers work day and night to do everything they can to ensure their cows are getting the best care possible, because farmers love what they do.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? All milk, flavored or not, contains the nine essential nutrients needed for a healthy and active lifestyle. Nothing can equally replace the wholesome dairy products that children are in desperate need of.

Calcium provided by cow’s milk is absorbed by our bodies better than any other form of calcium. Dairy products are needed for a complete balanced and nutritious diet in one’s life. Milk does the body good.

Roseau County

Parents: Doug and Corena Green Town: Greenbush Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a sophomore attending Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls to receive my Associates of Art degree. I also played volleyball and basketball. I’m very active in my church and the community. Michele Green, 20 We farm with my grandparDairy Star Sponsor: ents milking 52 cows, have Roseau & Kittson 30 head Angus and farm County ADA 3,500 acres of small grain.

218-528-3621 I help with milking, feeding calves, driving tractor and running the grain cart for harvest. I love showing dairy cattle in 4-H. After Northland, I plan to attend North Dakota State University to major in animal science and ag business. Then possibly take over the family farm.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. One Thanksgiving day, one of our show animals calved several weeks early and we couldn’t seem to find the calf. Thank goodness it had snowed the night before and there was an inch of snow on the ground so we were able to find little hoof prints.

We followed them about ¾ of a mile south of the farm in a ditch. She was and still alive. It was a miracle that she had no frozen tail or ears.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers take great care of their animals. Our animals aren’t just cows, they are our pets. The better care that we give the cows, the more production we get out of them. The cows are the ones that make our living. Cows are just like people, with a healthy diet and a lot of tender love and care, they will be healthy and happy. As well as being healthy, they will produce more milk than cows that are not cared for. This economic benefit as well as the drive to be a care taker pushes farmers to maintain the best and most comfortable lives for their livestock.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk may have more sugar in it, but kids need to maintain an active life. The sugar burned off and the beneficial vitamins and minerals that are found in milk will help kids grow up healthy and strong. Many kids drink a lot of pop and juice which has as much sugar or more than chocolate milk and they’d still receive the important nutrients from the milk. An active lifestyle is extremely important for kids which will help them burn off that extra sugar that they get from the chocolate milk as long as getting the essential nutrients that kids need.

Sibley County continued Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? There may be more sugar added to the chocolate milk but there is still a lot less sugar in chocolate milk then there is in sodas and juices. Chocolate milk is also the best thing to drink after physical activity.

Sibley County

Parents: Jim and Jody Oelfke Town: Hamburg Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family and I reside on our fifth generation dairy farm just outside of Hamburg, where we raise dairy cattle and have a beef and cash cropping business.

This spring I will close my freshman year at Min- Jennifer Oelfke, 18 nesota State UniversityDairy Star Sponsor: Mankato studying exercise Ag Star Financial science with a minor in Services psychology. Not pursuing Glencoe, MN a degree in agriculture al320-864-5595 lows me to relate information and educate those not familiar with the life of a dairy farmer.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. To me growing up on a dairy farm with three siblings where we all share a deep passion for dairy is a unique story in it’s own way.

I sincerely believe we have grown much closer than other siblings because of that. Each of us is equally as passionate about agriculture and that has made chores, fairs, and shows just much more meaningful because we always have each other’s support.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers put their animals and the environment first. Owning and working on a dairy farm isn’t just a job, it’s a lifestyle. Each day, a dairy farmer wakes up before sunrise to ensure that their animals are healthy and well taken care of.

Caring for the environment is vital for a dairy farm’s success and future. For any business to thrive, there needs to be heart put into hard work and that’s exactly what dairy farmers do.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recognize the small amount of added sugars in flavored milk is an acceptable tradeoff for the nutrients provided. Eliminating the option of flavored milk at school can decrease the consumption of milk completely among children. By serving a more appealing choice in schools, such as flavored milk, eliminates the risk of choosing soda and fruit drinks with half of the amount of added sugars in the diets of children today.

Parents: Randy Kirsch and Jodi Kirsch Town: Gaylord Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I finished my second and final year of college at Ridgewater College in Willmar. I currently work on Daybreak Holstein in Gaylord. In the future I would like to start my own heifer raising operation.

Tiffanie Kirsch, 19 Tell us a unique story Dairy Star Sponsor: you have from growing Daybreak Holstein up on or working on a Sarah and Gordy Schmidt farm. I personally did not Gaylord, MN grow up on a farm so ev507-237-2759 erything that happens at the farm is unique to me.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers care about the environment in the way that they are careful with what they put into the soil when they are planting crops. They care for their animals in the best way possible because if the animals are not well cared for they will not be able to produce very well.

Parents: Dean and Deidra Riebe Town: Arlington Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my father’s dairy farm. We milk about 60 cows in a tiestall barn.

I work with not only my father, but also my sister.

My job mainly consists of milking the cows and Hayley Riebe, 18 help with the calf care.

Dairy Star Sponsor: I currently am attending First District Bemidji State University Association majoring in art and design Litchfield, MN with a minor in mass com320-693-3236 munication.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My dad was gone during the day once and as he was gone, I went to check on a cow that was going to come fresh soon. When got to the shed, the calf was already half out, but the cow wasn’t pushing anymore. I knew I had to do something Sibley County continued on next page

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015 • Page 15

Sibley County continued

Stearns County continued

Stearns County continued

so the cow and calf stayed healthy. So, for the first time I pulled the calf out without my dad.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farmers practice onfarm methods to help the environment. They reduce the amount of energy needed for farming by recycling water and manure. Animals are the passion that dairy producers have. They start farming because they care for the animals and the more cared for the animals are, the better results there are in the dairy products.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk has the same nine essential nutrients that regular milk provides and has a small amount of sugar added compared to other beverages.

Not only does it provide these nutrients, but the water and electrolytes in chocolate milk does a great job in recovering from physical activities, which many young children do.

Parents: Kerry and Barbara Mergen Town: Farming Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently enrolled at the University of MinnesotaCrookston (UMC), and in my second year studying agricultural business and animal science. I was raised upon a 350 hundred acre family dairy north of Shannon Mergen, 19 Farming, Minn. On our Dairy Star Sponsor: family farm, we currently Virgil’s Vigorena milk 51 Holstein cows Virgil & Mary Kalthoff along with a laying hen Farming, MN barn. Upon graduation 320-548-3431 from UMC, I hope to become a dairy nutritionist in my future career, and I plan to stay involved and educated in the dairy industry.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My favorite memory growing up on my family’s dairy farm is when I witnessed a calf born during milking time. It was my job to make sure the cow was comfortable at all times.

Once the calf was born, I moved the young bull to the front side of the mother for her to begin cleansing. It was a rewarding and memorable experience.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers are my family, and we take pride to care for our animals and the environment because it is important to us too. The only way that our dairy family can eat healthy is by making sure our cows are obtaining the perfect amount of nutrition as well, and that starts with our crop land. We take caution as we enter every planting and harvesting season to ensure the greatest health for everyone’s products. Our cows on our farm are family; we do our best to ensure their comfort for successful productivity.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is the best re-fueling, reenergizing, and re-charging drink available in today’s market. Research continues to show that chocolate milk serves as a faster and better choice over sport drinks after a workout. All dairy products like chocolate milk provide the nine essential nutrients that our body needs while tasting great! It is important for not only kids but adults too, to enjoy three servings a day, and flavored milk only makes it easier.

vironment are our livelihood; therefore, we do our best to ensure that they are happy and healthy and that our land is sustainable for future generations. We provide our cows with a balanced, nutritious diet, a comfortable resting space, and medical attention. Today, dairy farms produce a gallon of milk using 95 percent less land and 65 percent less water while producing 76 percent less manure compared to 1994; that’s what I call commitment.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? White and chocolate milk both provide nine essential nutrients like calcium and protein, which we need to stay healthy. Among children, chocolate milk is a popular choice; therefore, kids will drink less milk meaning they will get fewer nutrients if it’s taken away.

The added sugar in flavored milk is only 3 percent of their daily sugar intake. I would encourage parents to feed chocolate milk to their kids and treat themselves to a glass, too.

Stearns County

Parents: Jim and Tammy Lehner Town: Holdingford Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a senior at Holdingford High School, and a part time PSEO student.

My family and I farm near Albany where we milk 38 red and white Holsteins. I am employed at Groetsch Dairy. Steve and Lisa Abigale Lehner, 17 Groetsch milk around 240 Dairy Star Sponsor: Holsteins on their farm.

Lake Country This fall I will be attendVeterinary ing Ridgewater Technical Albany, MN College to peruse an Asso320-845-6930 ciates of Applied Science Groetsch Dairy, Inc. Degree in dairy manage- Steve & Lisa Groetsch ment with a double major Albany, MN in ag business. In the fu320-845-4828 ture I hope to get a job as a herd manager on a large dairy farm.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. At work, there is this very friendly cow that everyone has a soft spot for. She enjoys coming up to you to get rubbed. One day, while I was fetching cows, she decided to say hello by giving my pony tail a little tug. I took me a little off guard but it made for a good laugh.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers are stewards of the land and we work hard to maintain a healthy herd of cattle that is able to provide quality milk. I would reassure these concerned consumers that without a healthy environment and cows, our dairy farmers would not be able to have the livelihood that we do. Our job as dairy farmers is to produce milk for dairy products, and in doing so we care for our cattle and preserve the environment in the most eco-friendly ways possible.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I want consumers to know that chocolate milk is still a nutritious and delicious dairy product that everyone, from athletes to young children, should not be afraid to enjoy. For an athlete, the combination of carbohydrates and proteins found in chocolate milk make it the perfect beverage to fuel up with after an exhilarating work out. Chocolate milk is also a great why to ensure that children get their 9 essential nutrients, such as Vitamin D and Calcium, without the fuss.

Parents: Victor and Ann Uphoff Town: Melrose Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family and I milk 50 cows and grow corn, alfalfa, and oats on 240 acres. We also have chickens and a pet goat named Tootsie.

Growing up on the farm, I loved helping my family do chores and spend time Morgan Uphoff, 18 outdoors. This has lead me Dairy Star Sponsor: to pursue a degree in farm Centre Dairy operations and manageSauk Centre, MN ment at Ridgewater Col320-352-5762 lege in Willmar. After college, I want to return back to the home farm.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My brothers and I tied our goat, Tootsie, to a wagon attempting to make her look like a reindeer. She immediately took off running towards the barn. The north door was open about a foot wide, so she could make it through; however, the wagon didn’t quite fit, causing her to fall. She was barely hurt, but she will forever be afraid of that wagon. There is never a dull moment with that goat.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Our animals and the en-

Parents: Scott and Janell Westerman Town: Sauk Centre Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family and I farm 200 acres, near Sauk Centre. We milk 38 cows in a tie-stall barn, and raise our own heifers and steers. I have been milking since I was nine, and help take care of the calves, bookwork, heifer Anna management and anything Westerman, 18 else that pertains to farmDairy Star Sponsor: ing. My sister and I have Young’s Veterinary started our own herds of Services various breeds and have Belgrade, MN all but Brown Swiss. I am currently attending Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College for dairy herd management, and my future plan is to keep farming on the home farm with my sister.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. For my birthday present when I was ten, my parents got my sister and me Jersey heifer calves. We did everything with them - played dress up, gave them a bath every week, and walked them daily. Her first calf, to my disappointment, was a bull. We started raising him as a steer, but he quickly turned into my horse (since I didn’t have one). We got him a saddle and he was very good with reigning with a halter. He was considered an oxen when I sold him five years later and was the best pet I’ve owned.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? The farm is our way of life. It is our job to take care of our animals and crops.

The best way to reassure consumers is to show them what we do. Inviting them to events like Breakfast on the Farm or to your own farm are good ways to connect.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Compared to regular milk, chocolate milk has only has 3 percent more sugar. It still contains the nine important nutrients and more, making is a healthy choice that tastes great. Research shows that children who drink flavored milk meet more of their nutrient needs than children who do not. If kids don’t like regular milk and if chocolate milk is not provided, then they probably won’t drink milk at all. It’s important for people to get three servings a day to stay healthy.

As a consumer myself, chocolate milk is the best recovery drink out there because it is the main supplier of calcium to support your bones, and because it has lots of protein to build and repair muscle tissue all with a great taste.

Page 16 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 9, 2015

Steele County

Parents: Brian and Carolyn Kanne Town: Medford Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a sophomore at the University of Minnesota.

I did not grow up on a dairy farm, but had Holstein steers that we used for beef. Recently, we have gotten much more involved in goats because Deanna Kanne, 20 of 4-H and FFA. My inDairy Star Sponsor: volvement in the dairy Isaacson Implement industry comes from a Nerstrand, MN study abroad trip to Swit507-789-6672 zerland last May. In the future, I hope to have my own farm and start up an agritourism business.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Since my main experience has been with goats, I have plenty of interesting stories from that section of the farm. Much of my time has been spent playing with the babies or getting them ready for the fair. There have been a few times, soon after the kids start jumping, where I’ve had goats climbing up on my head!

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? The producers’ biggest concern on their farm is their cows. Without the cow, there would be no production, leading to both low income and worry for the farmer. The farmer tries to make sure that their cows are comfortable. If something is wrong with one of them, the farmer will not sleep until their cows are better. The environment is also a big concern, since many cows feed off of the pasture.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk, while having sugar, still has much less sugar than its competitors – juice and soda. Plus, it is packed with nutrients! These nutrients include protein for muscle building, vitamin A to help the immune system, B vitamins for energy, and all of the nutrients that are in milk in general. This includes calcium and vitamin D, to name a few that help to build strong bones.

Parents: Jon and Kim Klejeski Town: Claremont Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a senior at Triton High School. I am very active in FFA on the local and state level. My family and I milk about 75 Brown Swiss and Holsteins just outside of Claremont. Next fall I plan on Makaila Klejeski, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: attending South Dakota Laura Seljan State University to double Photography, major in dairy production Kasson, MN and agricultural educa507-250-2217 tion. I hope to eventually take over the farm when my parents retire, so I can expand and carry on what has been started.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Last year I had the opportunity to do a presentation to preschoolers and kindergartners about dairy cattle and the industry. I had brought a Brown Swiss cow and her calf to demonstrate hand milking, the different types of feed in TMR, etc. At the end of my presentation, I had a preschool boy approach me and say “I don’t want to be a bus driver anymore; I want to be a farmer.”

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment by discussing

Steele County continued some of the practices we as dairy producers use to keep our cattle clean, comfortable, and content; and to keep the environment clean and well nurtured.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would address this concern by simply stating that all milk is healthy for you and the health benefits outweigh the content of sugar. Chocolate milk contains the same amount of sugar as apple juice and approximately 53 grams of sugar less than Mountain Dew. Chocolate milk is truly nutritious and delicious for all ages.

Parents: Curtis and Amy Rieck Town: Owatonna Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I have been involved in the dairy project for about five years. I first started showing dairy heifers at the county fair and started working on a dairy farm this past fall. I work for Aaron Schroht at SchroLeah Rieck, 18 haven Dairy Farms. My Dairy Star Sponsor: main jobs include feeding Bruce Steege, calves, moving milkers, Dairy Farmers of America and bedding the cows. My Zumbrota, MN future plans are to go to 507-732-8894 South Dakota State University in Brookings and major in animal science and be in their pre-vet program. After I graduate I will apply to the University of Minnesota to finish my schooling. I want to become a large animal veterinarian.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. One thing that has stuck out to me the most was the time that I had to help fish for a cow. It was just starting to get warmer out and we had just finished milking. We had just let the cows out when one decided to walk over the electric wire and fall into the manure pit. We looked out and all you could see was its ears, nose, and eyes. Aaron went and got the skid loader and I helped put the chain around the cow’s head/neck and the other end on the bucket while Aaron tried to carefully pull the cow out. After 15 minutes of readjusting the chains, we were finally able to pull the cow out safely.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would start by telling them that dairy farmers make sure their animals have fresh food and water every morning and night. They have the same schedule too so the animals are fed at the same time every day. Dairy farmers know who each cow is and what they are prone to do such as kicking if you walk too fast behind them. The farmers even know when the cow is not feeling well, and they will try everything in their power to help the cow get back to being healthy and happy again. Everything is about the cows; they decided when we get up, when we can go out, and when we have to come back and do chores at night.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would assure them that chocolate milk is healthy. Chocolate milk has less sugar content than most juices, Kool Aid drinks, and soda pops. It is also full of essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin A, and iron that are good for young children to consume. It’s a sweet drink that is like a dessert but it’s healthy for you.

Steele County continued Parents: Shelly and Dixon Rypka Town: Owatonna Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am an honors student at the Owatonna Senior High School.

I am involved in National Honor Society, Key Club, Link Crew, Cross Country, and 4H. I grew up on Oak Katelyn Rypka, 18 Grove Guernsey Farm on Dairy Star Sponsor: the southeast side of OwaNorthland Farm Systems tonna. Next fall I will be Owatonna, MN attending the University of 507-451-3131 Wisconsin-Eau Claire majoring in biology. My goal is to attend medical school after I graduate from Eau Claire. I would like to specialize in oncology.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I was out running errands when I got a call saying that my heifers were out. I rushed home to find my three heifers roaming the farm. My neighbor, my mom, and I spent the next hour trying to round them up as they ran through my dad’s bean field. I was only wearing shorts and sandals, so needless to say I ended up very itchy and dirty, but the three of us managed to corral my run-aways.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers love their animals like they are part of the family. They spend every day caring for the animals by making sure they are fed properly, healthy, and comfortable. For farmers to make a living and feed a hungry nation, they need the most content and the healthiest animals because they produce the most milk. Dairy farmers are great stewards of the land by utilizing manure for fertilizer, reducing the need for commercial fertilizers.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? It seems like there are added sugars in just about everything these days. Chocolate milk may have a small amount of sugar added to give it the rich chocolaty flavor, but it is still a very nutritious product containing calcium, protein, potassium, and many vitamins. Even so, chocolate milk is still far healthier than soft drinks and many juices that kids drink today.

Parents: Wade and Mary Schroeder Town: Owatonna Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work on my family’s dairy alongside my grandfather, mother, and siblings. We milk about 35 Holsteins, and although I love them dearly, my favorite cows are our recently added Crossbreds.

Our cows have blessed me Kendra with so many good experiSchroeder, 20 ences that two years ago I Dairy Star Sponsor: decided to study dairy sciIBA Dairy Supply ence with an emphasis on Brandon Balzer & pre-veterinary science at Rusty Paulson the University of Wiscon507-451-7218 sin-River-Falls, so I can someday give back to the dairy industry as a large animal veterinarian.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I remember when I was younger, my pre-school friends would talk about their daycare experiences, telling stories about the friends they’d made and activities they’d done. I never went to daycare growing up, but instead, went to the farm with my mom. I grew up making big, furry, spotted friends, playing and working outside, and perhaps best of all, I spent my entire childhood growing and learning alongside my parents, grandparents and siblings.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I am a living, breathing example that dairy producers love their cows like family. We work hard each and every day to make sure our cows are as comfortable as can be—sometimes even if that’s not what’s easiest or most convenient for us. We, as Steele County continued on next page

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Steele County continued

Swift County continued

Todd County continued

dairy farmers, make it our life goal to work hard every day to take care of the land we share and the animals who depend on us.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I have two siblings who are picky eaters, so I understand how hard it can be to get kids to eat right, let alone enjoy healthy foods. Milk is a natural source of high quality protein, calcium, and other vital vitamins and minerals that are important to include in your diet. To me, it’s a no-brainer letting my siblings enjoy chocolate milk; they are benefiting from the natural, nutrient-rich, and wholesome goodness that milk has to offer.

ing on a farm happened during evening chores. I was helping my brother feed the calves. And for whatever reason we both started to sing while we worked which turned into a singing contest. It sure made the work go much faster while bonding with my brother!

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and environment? The cows are like our family.

We do our best to keep them comfortable and happy and watch closely for signs of illness or injury. In order to keep our family happy and healthy, we keep them in a clean environment.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk has the same nine essentials as regular milk. Some children just don’t like regular milk. Chocolate milk is a great way for them to get the same nutrients.

Parents: Larry and Janice Mellgren Town: Long Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live south of Long Prairie, Minn. on a 40-cow dairy farm. We raise our own calves and have many cats running around. We also have two dogs that like to keep us company and try to trip us; well my puppy likes to anyway. As for fu- Elizabeth Mellgren, ture plans, I plan on going 17 to Gustavus Adolphus and Dairy Star Sponsor: major in medicine. I would like to become a nurse or First District pediatrician.

Association Tell us a unique story Litchfield, MN you have from growing up 320-693-3236 on or working on a farm.

There is never a dull moment when growing up on a farm. In fact, I have made many fun memories. One that sticks out the most was the time when I was about five or six and I tried to prove that I could walk down the aisle without seeing. So I put my sweater on backwards and started walking. A few steps later, I was covered in cow pies and let us just say, cleaning me up wasn’t exactly a picnic.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and environment? I would tell consumers that dairy producers go out of their way every single day to provide the best comfort, nutrition and vet care there is. To do this, producers either live on or near the farms they work on.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk is still good for you. In fact, it’s even one of my favorite dairy products. It is a great refresher after a good workout or after a great day at the park with friends. It helps replenish our muscles, which is why many athletes choose to drink chocolate milk. Chocolate milk may have sugar in it, but it is way healthier than most sugary drinks and candy most kids eat.

Stevens County

Parents: Ron and Julie Golombiecki Town: Chokio Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on a 60-cow dairy farm north of Chokio.

I have also done relief milking at the WCROC Dairy since 2013. After working on the farm most of my life I now know this is the job for me. I plan to Elizabeth attend college and major Golombiecki, 18 in dairy science. After colDairy Star Sponsor: lege I plan to return and Villard Implement Co. work with my father and Villard, MN brother on the farm.

320-554-3111 Tell us a unique stoHancock Co-op ry you have from growHancock, MN ing up on or working on 320-392-5291 a farm. There are so many great memories I have of growing up on the farm. One that really sticks out in my mind is how my dad chose to potty train me. He would take me in the barn and take off my diaper to let me run around. He would always say ‘naked as a jay bird’. Thanks to his teaching I would run around saying ‘naked as a jay bird’ everywhere.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers work every day, rain or shine, doing a job we have chosen because we love what we do. We are committed to taking the best care of our animals and environment for the future of the industry. We must work hard every day so we can leave the next generation something great to work with. We also work hard with our animals to produce a wholesome product for the public.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is a wholesome dairy product with many nutritional benefits. We must not forget the great nutrition you can get from dairy products far outweighs what the sugar content may be. So, pick up a nice glass of wholesome chocolate milk to refuel.

Swift County

Parents: David and Denise Schliep Town: Holloway Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I was raised on my parents’ dairy farm, and I have been involved with the dairy industry for my entire life. Showing dairy at the local county fair was one of the best things that has happened to me. I work on my parents’ farm, mainly by taking care of the young calves.

Eventually, I plan to go to school for childcare.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. One of my favorite memories from work-

Kristen Schliep, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: D&D Ag Supply & Construction Pennock, MN 320-599-4466 Glacial Plains Co-op De Graff, MN 320-843-5364

Todd County

Parents: James and Sheila Buderus Town: Eagle Bend Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family owns 395 acres and rents around 425 acres. We have two farms that both operate with a double 16 parlor system with automatic takeoffs. Between the two farms we milk nearly 550 cows. When Savannah Shaye I’m not in the barn or doBuderus, 19 ing miscellaneous chores, Dairy Star Sponsor: I enjoy reading, painting, Bakke’s Repair & riding horse, and trying Radiator Shop new things. I am currently Eagle Bend, MN a sophomore at Valley City 218-738-5892 State University majoring elementary education.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Growing up I had a Brown Swiss that was stubborn as could be named Annabell. I would visit and play with her everyday. When it came time for her to have her first calf, I noticed that she was particularly fat. I asked dad, “What if she has twins?” “She won’t,” he replied, but I would repeatedly ask him until one day he got frustrated and said, “She won’t have twins! 1 out of every 100 heifers has twins. Besides, even if she did, they wouldn’t both be heifers.” Two weeks later Annabell gave birth to twins… they were both heifers.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I’d say dairy farmers are very committed to caring for their animals and the environment because their livelihood depends on it.

Dairy farm families and companies are doing their part to make our planet healthy by taking steps to reduce, reuse, and recycle. As for the cows, they are a very important and loved part of the family so we do our best to keep them happy and healthy to produce more wholesome and nutritious milk for other families.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I’d let people know that chocolate milk has the same nine essential nutrients as white milk in addition to having less sugar per serving than most juices.

Milk, flavored or plain, still has that nutrient package that you can’t find in any other beverage. More than 50 percent of kids from ages 2-18 don’t get enough calcium in their diet, and chocolate milk offers calcium plus eight other essential nutrients as well as a taste kids love.

Parents: Paul and Bonnie Middendorf Town: Browerville Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a dairy farm right outside of Browerville. My family and I milk 60 cows and farm about 300 acres. I plan to attend the University of Minnesota-Morris to pursue a degree in either elementary Katelyn Middendorf, education or liberal arts for 18 the human services.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Tell us a unique story American Heritage you have from growing up National Bank on or working on a farm.

Long Prairie, Growing up, my favorite memory has always been Browerville, St. Cloud 320-732-6131 picking rock. At a young age, I was stuck driving the tractor. My parents have always told me the story of when they tied me to the tractor and let me drive for the first time. They said I was so excited that I ended up falling asleep after about 20 minutes.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? There have been many new policies that are coming out including Farmers Assurance Responsible Managements (FARM). FARM is all about treating animals right and making sure that the land is handled with care. I know that my family has gone to great measures to adhere to the strict codes that were set.

We treat all of our animals like they are family. We even name them all.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would tell the consumers that milk is packed with nine essential nutrients that are very helpful to grow up big and strong. We also need these nine essential nutrients to maintain a good healthy lifestyle. Also, I would tell them that the sugar in the milk is limited and, in moderation, can be helpful for young kids.

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Parents: Roy and Teresa Perish Town: Long Prairie Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I’m a senior at Browerville High School. I live on a small dairy farm with my family. We currently milk around 30 cows, which slows traffic to see the sight of different breeds on pasture. I plan to attend Northwest Technical College for Karina Perish, 17 child development in hopes Dairy Star Sponsor: of leading to a career in hisNelson Creamery tory education.

Association Tell us a unique story Nelson, MN you have from growing up 320-762-0115 on or working on a farm.

Rice always takes a long time to make! One day my sister and I were preparing dinner when we looked outside and saw the gate was left open. The cows were out.

We were panicked about how we were going to control the cows. We thought of a quick plan that would be best to bring the cows in. Dust was flying, Rachel and I got a workout but finally, we got them in without our parents knowing. But when we came in the house, we realized rice doesn’t take that long to cook!

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers take pride in taking care of their cows and land. It is a way of life. They do their best to produce good milk good feed for healthy cows and healthy people.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk is better than no milk. It has the same nutrients as white milk. I think it helps kids get excited to drink milk and stay active.

Parents: Edward and Donna Rother Town: Theilman Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. For the past three years I’ve been working on a 220 cow dairy farm. We farm around 400 acres outside of Plainview. After recently finishing a year at the Farm and Industry Short Course in Madison, Wis., Caroline Rother, 20 I plan on pursuing a hoof Dairy Star Sponsor: trimming school for dairy Wingert Sales cattle in the next few years. & Service Tell us a unique story Plainview, MN you have from growing 507-534-4386 up on or working on a farm. One of our favorite Swiss cows suffered an injury on her rear left hock.

She was limping severely, was off feed, and rapidly losing weight. I made a special stall in the freestall barn for her, where she had her own personal water and feed supply. Every milking, she would get her leg cleaned up and dressed, and led back to her stall on a halter. It took a long time—about two weeks before she started improving. I knew she was too special to sell, and I also knew she had a pretty little calf growing inside her. Eventually, her leg healed up, she started gaining weight and recovered completely. She gave birth to a gorgeous heifer calf, and currently has another calf on the way!

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would tell them the story I shared about the Brown Swiss cow, and also explain to them how everything on a dairy revolves around making sure the cattle are never hungry, or thirsty. Cow comfort is always our biggest concern, which is why we have a mechanical brush to keep the cows clean and entertained throughout the day. We keep records of all injuries and sicknesses to ensure responsible medicine use and management. There are so many other examples I could give but don’t have the space to write them!

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Yes, chocolate milk can sometimes have a higher sugar content than a serving of Gatorade. I would be sure to tell consumers, especially parents with young children, that chocolate milk offers a wider range of nutrients, such as protein to build strong muscles, calcium to build strong bones, and also vitamin D, which is a vital nutrient in growing children’s diets.

Gatorade may have less sugar, but has no protein content, and is stated on the label that it is not a significant source of calcium.

Wabasha County

Parents: Bruce and Natalie Wood Town: Plainview Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I am currently finishing my senior year at Plainview-Elgin-Millville high school. I am involved in cheer, softball, National Honor Society, FFA and 4-H. My favorite thing to do is show my dairy cattle at various shows in the sumKallie Baker, 18 mer. I live on my family’s Dairy Star Sponsor: dairy farm where we milk Monahan Cattle around 150 cattle. This fall, Hoof Trimming I will be a freshman at Iowa Plainview, MN State University where I 507-272-3447 will be majoring in animal science/pre-veterinary medicine.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I will always remember when I picked out my very first 4-H calf, Bessie. I had no idea what qualities a show calf should possess so I decided to just pick the cutest one in the herd. That summer, I learned a lot about hard work, dedication and responsibility. Bessie showed me just how much it takes to keep an animal happy and healthy.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farmers are stewards of the land, which means they have an obligation to keep the environment safe. Putting manure on fields is one example of this. Not only does this practice add nitrogen to the soil, but it is also environmentally friendly. Farmers love their animals and their care is of the utmost importance to them. Having a nutritionist is one example of many when it comes to caring for our animals.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children?

Chocolate milk contains all nine essential nutrients and is a good choice for athletes to refuel with after a hard day’s practice. Although it does have a little more sugar, it can help athletes to recover faster after a workout and aid in refueling muscles. For young children especially, milk, whether it is chocolate or white, has a significant amount of calcium in it which helps build strong bones and teeth.

Parents: Jim and Bobbi Wright Town: Lake City Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on our family farm, known as Wright Farms. We milk cows over at my grandparents, Lyle and Rose Wright, along with field work and custom field work for surrounding farms. I currently work at the nursing home in Lake Kirsten Marie City while also attending Woodhull, 20 Rochester Community and Dairy Star Sponsor: Technical College in Rochester. I’m studying occupa- Plainview Milk Products Plainview, MN tion therapy and hope to 507-534-3872 get into the program at the University of MinnesotaRochester.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. A funny thing I remember is when I was little I loved to ride in the tractor with my Grandpa or Dad. The funny part is, it never seemed to fail that my head would constantly hit the window.

Another thing I love to do that not many other people like to do is, I love getting to help cover piles with the plastic and tires.

Wabasha County continued How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would reassure them by trying to have them realize people only ever hear about the bad things. I would invite them to our farm to show them that we do the best we can for our animals and do certain things to help the environment. As dairy farmers, we don’t mistreat our cows because we need them healthy and happy to give us quality milk for quality diary products.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is a great way to get kids to drink more milk. I realize the sugar content to some parents may be a problem, but in the long run it’s the dairy nutrients that count when consuming it. There are also plenty of chocolate milk products that cut out the sugars, such as Fairlife.

Wadena County

Parents: Todd and Patty Meech Town: Nimrod Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on our family dairy farm near Nimrod, Minn., which consists of a 500-cow dairy. We have a double 12 parlor and seven robotic milkers. I do various things throughout our farm such as milking, feeding calves, feeding cows, Amanda Meech, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: bedding our cattle, driving Pro Dairy Systems tractor and bobcat, cleanWadena, MN ing barns, and helping with 218-632-5416 field work. I am currently a student at Ridgewater College in Willmar, Minn. I will be graduating with a diploma for farm operations and management-dairy emphasis at the end of May. When I am finished I plan to return to my home farm.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a dairy farm. My father was blessed to take me home on his 23rd birthday. It been a tradition to celebrate by having a hayride for the young kids and one for the adults.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? We, as dairy producers, take pride in caring for our land. It’s important for us to protect the land, water and air for our families, surrounding communities and future generations. All dairy farms must meet the standards for manure storage and handling set out for us by the state. Our animals are also well cared for. They receive a nutritious diet, all-day access to drinking water and comfortable housing that protects them from bad weather.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would address the concern by explaining to them that there is still nutritional value in drinking milk.

Also, it’s better for the kids to consume chocolate milk than no milk at all.

Washington County

Parents: Patrick and Sharlene Daninger Town: Forest Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently attending the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities where I am studying agricultural education. I live on Autumnwood Farm where we milk 60 Registered and grade Holstein cattle. We Mariah Daninger, 19 have approximately 120 Dairy Star Sponsor: head including calves and Ellsworth Cooperative replacement heifers. We Creamery also have a creamery on Ellsworth, WI our farm where we pro715-273-4311 cess and bottle our milk in

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glass bottles and sell it in an on-the-farm store as well as 56 additional stores, coffee shops and cafes. After graduation, I plan on becoming an agriculture teacher in a high school, while staying involved in the dairy community through farming and the local dairy princess program.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a dairy farm. Working with and growing closer to my family is my favorite part of growing up on a farm. Since I am the youngest child in my family, I spent my junior and senior years of high school working with my mom and dad on the farm while my siblings were at college or beyond.

Through this, my dad and I had a lot of bonding time available during chores. We developed many inside jokes in these conversations relating to a variety of things from The Andy Griffith Show and Hogan’s Heroes, to actions and phrases we have seen or heard.

Each time we chat, multiple inside jokes are brought up, reminding us of how we made chores interesting and different. Moments like these remind me of how thankful I am to grow up on a farm with my family.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Farmers are passionate about advocating for agriculture and the dairy community. We all live on the same planet and want to have a safe and healthy environment around us. This is something that farmers keep in mind while completing their work. Their families are being impacted in the same way as consumers outside of the farm, so they are keeping the best interest of everyone involved. We truly care about our animals and their welfare. My favorite cow is named Autumnwood Davis Bacon. Bacon is eight years old and has quite the personality. I have shown her at fairs since she was a just a fall calf. At the fair I will lay against Bacon and she wraps her head around me, closes her eyes and simply lays there. This connection shows the love and devotion we have towards our cattle and the wholesome dairy products.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Just like any food, moderation is key. Chocolate milk can be beneficial for you, but it is when you drink it in excess amounts that it loses its beneficial value. For athletes especially, “Refuel with Chocolate Milk” is a program that reenergizes and replenishes their bodies. It has been proven to be more beneficial than any sports drink after a workout and helps by rebuilding muscles and refueling the body, providing athletes with a quick recovery and preparing them to perform their best. Having been an athlete myself, I am able to make a strong connection with the program.

from the cattle and same goes for land. If farmers don’t protect their land that crops are grown on, then they also wouldn’t be properly caring for their animals.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Not just chocolate milk but any milk, flavored or not, still contains the nutrients to help children grow, like calcium, potassium, protein, phosphorus, magnesium, riboflavin, niacin and vitamins A, B12 and D. They only contribute 3 percent of sugar in children’s diet.

vorite memories occurred when I was very young and very obsessed with Shania Twain’s “Man, I Feel Like a Woman” song. Whenever this song would come on the radio we had out in the barn while we were milking, my dad and I would jam out to the song.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would let them know if cows aren’t in a comfortable environment, they are not going to produce much milk. Dairy producers rely on their milk check for their income, so they’re going to make sure their cows are comfortable and happy so they can produce as much milk as they can. Dairy producers also must care about their environment to make sure they have high sustainability rates. This is important to keep dairy products flowing to the stores for years to come.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would let consumers know that milk contains so many nutrients that are hard to replace in your diet. All these nutrients are incredibly important for growing children to have. Fortunately, you can choose a healthier option of chocolate milk, which will have less sugar and fat contents such as fat free, skim, or organic. All these choices still contain those important nutrients we all need in our daily diet.

Winona County

Parents: Jim and Stacy McNally Town: Winona Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on my parents two hundred acre dairy farm where we milk about one hundred head of Holstein cattle. I have been helping out on the farm since is was fifteen. I milk cows, feed calves, and help in Nicole McNally, 17 the fields when dad need Dairy Star Sponsor: me. After high school Erdmann Trucking I plan on attending the Winona, MN welding program at the 507-458-7432 tech school in town.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. The first time dad started teaching me how to drive a tractor ended up being shorter than I expected.

He had me drive out to the back of the farm and then back to the house. That was fine until he told me to back up and hook up to a gravity box. I had never backed up to something with a tractor before, but dad helped me through it.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers are dedicated to providing safe, high quality dairy products to consumers. If dairy farmers are not caring for their animals, they wouldn’t be receiving high quality milk

Parents: Bill and Sue Selke Town: Winona Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my dad and grandpa’s 240 cow dairy farm. I mostly help out with milking the cows and feeding the calves, but during summer I help with the field work as well. We milk in a double 10 parlor.

Rachel Selke, 17 I plan on attending NorthDairy Star Sponsor: east Iowa Community Lewiston College in the fall for two Veterinary Clinic years, and then I plan to Lewiston, MN transfer to Iowa State for 507-523-2136 a degree in dairy science.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. My favorite part of growing up on a farm is that every day is different. I will never forget the day that we moved from our old flat barn to the parlor we had built. I was young, but I remember how after milking that morning we started hauling trailer loads of cows to the new barn. I also will never forget watching my dad and some neighbors milk in the parlor the first night.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Without their animals or land, farmers would have no means of income.

Farmers don’t decide to farm because they feel like they have to, but because it is what they want and love to do. The land and cattle are both cared for because farmers know that without either, they would not be able to survive. The land and cattle are a farmers co-workers in the job of farming.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk still has all the essential vitamins that most people are missing in their diet, even if there is more sugar. There is also a lot of sugar in many other beverages, but they do not contain as many benefits along with it. There is also research that says that chocolate milk is very good for after a workout. Milk is a natural beverage that is beneficial and delicious.

Parents: Marty and Cassie Waldo Town: Winona Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work at Dave Brown’s dairy farm located outside of Witoka, Minn. I work 3540 hours a week feeding calves and milking their 150 Holstein herd. I milk there every day in a double 8 parlor. I currently am go- Madison Waldo, 18 ing to Rochester CommuDairy Star Sponsor: nity and Technical College Root River IBA in Rochester, Minn. for Dave & Kary Schansberg equine science and equine Houston, MN business management, but 507-450-4811 plan to continue working on the dairy farm for now.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I grew up on a family dairy farm for most of my life, and some of my fondest memories were out milking cows. One of my fa-

Wright County

Parents: Tom and Rita Howell Town: Monticello Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live in Monticello and go to Monticello High School, but I have been doing full time PSEO at Anoka Ramsey Community College for my junior and senior years of high school.

I have worked on Green Jessica Howell, 18 Waves dairy farm in AlDairy Star Sponsor: bertville for three years Green Waves Farm now milking 100 black St. Michael, MN and white Holsteins. I 612-419-5423 plan to go to South Dakota State University in the fall to pursue a degree in animal science with a minor in dairy science.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. I did not grow up on a dairy farm and I had not ever been on one until I started working at Green Waves when I was 15. I always loved small animals but I never knew I’d be working with 1500 pound cows and care for them as much as I do. Working on the farm helped me to decide which career path I want to do and opened my eyes to new experiences.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy producers care for their animals like they care for family. At our farm, the cows have water beds and when they are milked with the Lely robotic milkers they can get treats whenever they want. All dairy producers make sure that their cows are in a healthy and comfortable environment. Also, they are committed to the environment by constantly finding new solutions to limit their carbon footprint and the amount of methane exerted by the cows. In fact, over the last 75 years dairy farmers have managed to reduce the amount of methane gas by nearly 50 percent.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk has been one drink that adults and children have enjoyed for years. On average chocolate milk only has around 3 percent more sugars then those in regular milk. Furthermore, chocolate milk has fewer sugars then most sports drinks and has the same amount of nutrients that are in white milk. Chocolate milk is not bad for children and it helps provide energy to athletes.

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Parents: Wayne and Lorrie Kozitka Town: Howard Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently a freshman at South Dakota State University majoring in agricultural leadership. I am actively involved in 4-H as a Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador. I work on my uncle’s farm where Bethany Kozitka, 19 we milk 35 Holsteins and Dairy Star Sponsor: Crossbreeds. I help with Munson Lakes Nutrition milking and feeding the & The Country Store young calves. I currently Howard Lake, MN house three of my own 320-543-2561 dairy animals there too.

Also I enjoy being able to show at the county and state fairs through 4-H. Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. When I was younger, a few of my cousins and I would come up with many games to play around the farm. One game in particular we pretend we were dairy princesses and spies at the same time. It was always fun and a memory that we will never forget.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers care for their cows. They want what is best for the cows as the dairy farm is their job. Also they want to continue to sustain good cow comfort and care. They are constantly looking.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is just as powerful, with the nine essential nutrients, as white milk. Yes, it does contain sugar but compared to any other beverage, except water, it has about 38% less sugar. In fact, milk processors have been working hard to lower the sugar content. Also I would state that the body does need sugar and that chocolate milk is a great refueler after any physical activity.

Parents: Charles and Robyn Krause Town: Buffalo Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a sixth generation dairy farmer. I live on a dairy farm in Buffalo, Minn. where my family and I milk around 200 cows and run 600 acres of cropland.

I love working with dairy cattle and do a variety of Morgan Krause, 17 jobs on my family farm.

Dairy Star Sponsor: Next fall, I will be at- Munson Lakes Nutrition tending the University of & The Country Store Minnesota-Twin Cities to Howard Lake, MN pursue a degree in agricul320-543-2561 ture education and animal science with a dairy emphasis.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Being a sixth generation dairy farmer, I have the amazing opportunity to work side-by-side with my family every day. Many of my childhood memories are of taking care of the cows and the land with my grandfather, dad and brother. My favorite memory is from when I was five.

I showed a calf for the first time at the county fair and was able to have my family there supporting me.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? The top priorities on my family’s farm are caring for our cows and for the land we live on. From the day a calf is born to the day she leaves this earth, it is our goal to make sure that she is comfortable and well taken care of. We are dedicated to the well-being of our animals and go through great measures to make sure they are healthy and strong.

Wright County continued

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is a wholesome and nutritious dairy product for children to drink. It contains the same essential nutrients that regular milk does and will help young children grow healthy and strong.

Studies have shown that drinking chocolate milk after being active is even better than drinking Gatorade or other protein drinks. Chocolate milk is a great, wholesome and healthy dairy product for young children to drink.

Parents: Chris and Harlan Mauk Town: Howard Lake Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. Currently, I am a freshmen at South Dakota State University studying agricultural education. It is my goal after graduation to become and agricultural educator and FFA Advisor. My family’s farm, Kyla Mauk, 19 Mauk Dairy Farm, is a Dairy Star Sponsor: small farm north of How- Munson Lakes Nutrition ard Lake. My parents, & The Country Store grandparents, sisters, and Howard Lake, MN I work hard each day to 320-543-2561 ensure a wholesome, nutritious food that everyone can enjoy. My hobbies include FFA, 4-H, traveling, reading, running, and being with my friends and family.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. Every morning my sisters and I would wake up and head to the barn.

After the completion of morning chores, we wanted to stay in the barn as long as we could. So we would then hop on our bikes and ride all around the farm.

That was a workout for us! After our morning chores and exercise, mom would always have a cold glass of chocolate milk ready for us. Talk about a delicious, nutritious treat.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? Dairy farmers live on or close by the land that they farm. They understand the importance of taking care of the environment.

Land, water, and air quality are responsibilities dairy farmer’s take pride in. Animal care is a dairy farmer’s number one priority. Their commitment to providing a high quality food begins with taking excellent care of their cows. Farmers ensure a nutritious diet, medical care, and healthy living conditions for their animals.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Dairy farmers are committed to improving children’s health by helping to develop dairy products for schools that are nutritious and taste great! Dairy farmers even helped to create the Fuel Up to Play 60 Program which encourages physical activity and good nutrition in schools. Being an athlete myself, I know the importance of replenishing tired muscles after physical activity. Chocolate milk does just that, it has the vitamins, minerals, and sugars needed to refuel.

Parents: Julie and Barry Spiers Town: Monticello Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work on a dairy farm in St. Michael called Greenwaves Farm. We recently just got robots on our farm to help milk some cows.

The robots are milking about 200 cows, and we still milk about 100 cows manually. My future plans are to attend South Dakota State University this fall

Ali Spiers, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Hobert Sales Cokato, MN 320-286-6284

Wright County continued

and major in nursing.

Tell us a unique story you have from growing up on or working on a farm. One story I have from working on my farm is when we installed the robots on our farm. My co-workers and I were training the cows to go through them. Our cows were difficult the first time to get through, but easier the second. Once the cows started to get used to it, we could sit back a little. With our extra time, or boss surprised us with pizza. So we enjoyed our pizza while watching the new robots milk the cows. It was weird at first, but now it’s just natural. For us and the cows.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? I would reassure the consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals by always making sure the animals are safe and comfortable. Our cows are constantly working to produce milk to help make us money. We do all we can to keep them healthy. If the cows are happy, than we are happy.

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? I would say that this is false. Chocolate milk is not bad for kids. Many kids do not like milk because of its flavor. Flavored milk has the same nine essential nutrients plus the healthy vitamins. Kids should always have at least three serving of milk each day; if they enjoy chocolate milk, they should drink it! Many reasons why adults don’t like children drinking flavored milk is because of its sugar. When really chocolate milk only contributes to 3 percent added sugar to a child’s diet. Kids who drink flavored milk meet their nutrient needs and do not consume more added sugar, fat or calories, and are not heavier than non-milk drinkers.

Mille Lacs County Parents: Dan Christensen Town: Milaca Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I graduated from Milaca High School last spring. My dad, Dan, is the manager at the local creamery in Foreston. I grew up on my grandparents’ dairy farm in Pease, Minn. I work at Calvin and Linda Heins’ farm where we are cur- Brooke Christensen, 19 rently milking 57 Holstein. I also do various Dairy Star Sponsor: chores around the farm. In Foreston Co-op the future, I hope to own Creamery my own dairy farm.

Foreston, MN Tell us a unique sto320-294-5711 ry you have from growing up on or working on a dairy farm. I don’t have a specific story, but the most memorable thing would be riding in the tractor with Grandma and Grandpa, and helping them during milking.

How would you reassure consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment? We make sure cow comfort is a top priority. If the cows aren’t comfortable, they won’t produce milk. Cows come before everything else. Calvin once told me “you’re married to the cows. You spend more time with them than you do your spouse.”

Chocolate milk has come under attack due to its sugar content. How would you address this concern to consumers, especially parents with young children? Chocolate milk is very nutritious. It’s good for the body and replenishes your muscles. Plus, it’s a yummy snack.