Michigan Milk Messenger: July 2017

Michigan 2015 Milk

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF MICHIGAN MILK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

VOL. 100 | ISSUE 1 | JULY 2017

INTRODUCING

mimilk.com

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JULY 2017 FEATURES

WILL NEVER NEED THEM, 14 | YOU UNTIL YOU DO

On the Cover With Amish roots and farmer owners, the Heritage Ridge Creamery is dedicated to

HERITAGE RIDGE 16 | INTRODUCING CREAMERY

crafting traditional cheeses with quality at the forefront.

Take a look at the new brand, launched on June 24, on page 16.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are more than just paperwork. Rachel Foley, MMPA member, knows firsthand the importance of thorough SOPs for when something expected interrupts day to day operations.

Meet the new Heritage Ridge Creamery brand to market cheeses made at the Middlebury, Indiana facility. The brand conveys the legacy of the facility while championing its great cheeses.

SATISFY THE JUST CLAIMS 20 | “TO OF OUR PEOPLE�

The year was 1919. The three-year-old Michigan Milk Producers Association was a federated organization operating out of Howell, Michigan. And R.C. Reed, set out on a new endeavor: informing the membership through the Michigan Milk Messenger.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA), established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 2,000 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

3

CONTENTS 6

MMPA MATTERS

“I get to go to work knowing I’m helping not only the dairy farmer but also helping consumers understand the truth about dairy.”

Ice Cream for Breakfast!

8

QUALITY WATCH

Quality Training & Continued Education

10

NEWS & VIEWS

12

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

— JULIA CHAMBERLAIN, MMPA SUMMER INTERN (PAGE 22)

DEPARTMENTS 25

13

OYDC SNAPSHOT:

CASEY AND LAURA SPARKS

26 MERCHANDISE 27

22 24

POLICIES

MEET THE 2017 MMPA INTERNS

QUALITY PREMIUMS

28 FREELINERS 29 CLASSIFIEDS

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK: CROSSFIT GAMES CHAMP JOINS MILK MEANS MORE TEAM

MMPA Core Values:

»

Quality

»

Integrity

Managing Editor.............................................Sheila Burkhardt Editor............................................................. Allison Stuby Miller Advertising Manager.................................. Nancy Muszynski Circulation................................................................................2,707 An Equal Opportunity Employer – F/M/V/D Michigan Milk Messenger (USPS 345-320) is the official publication of Michigan Milk Producers Association, published monthly since June 1919. Subscriptions: MMPA members, 50¢ per year; non-members, $5 per year.

30

MARKET REPORT

31 STAFF

»

Progress

»

Leadership

41310 Bridge Street P.O. Box 8002 Novi, MI 48376-8002

»

Community

p: 248-474-6672 f: 248-474-0924 w: mimilk.com

Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Milk Messenger, PO Box 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002.

(ISSN 0026-2315)

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

5

MMPA MATTERS

Ice Cream for Breakfast!

BY KEN NOBIS, PRESIDENT

The month of June is well known as dairy month. During the month that follows, we recognize a specific dairy treat…Ice Cream! The designation of July as Ice Cream Month was brought about by the American Dairy Association with a proclamation by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. The refreshing treat is promoted very heavily in July but also during any hot month of the year by ice cream makers – and those of us who love ice cream.

It is believed that ice cream has its origins in ancient Greece, coming on the scene long before the invention of refrigerators or freezers. The original concoction was a combination of snow honey and fruit, nothing like what we enjoy today, but still considered the beginning of the delicious treat we love to eat throughout the year and especially during the summer months.

The latest news about dairy fat is that it isn’t the health villain it was made out to be for so many years. I’m hoping consumers will use this information to return ice cream in moderation to its rightful place in a healthy diet.

The first true ice cream is thought to have been introduced by Catherine de’ Medici in the 16th century. In 17th century England the formula for making ice cream was kept secret so that only the royals had access to the treat. It wasn’t until the 18th century that commoners had access.

Even though ice cream has not been restricted to royalty in modern times, ice cream consumption has declined by about one third in the last 40 years. I assume the primary reason is because consumers have been concerned with the fat content of ice cream.

The latest news about dairy fat is that it isn’t the health villain it was made out to be for so many years. I’m hoping consumers will use this information to return ice cream, in moderation, to its rightful place in a healthy diet. My grandkids appreciate being part of a family that looks upon ice cream as a health food!

Look, also, at the resurgence in butter consumption we are experiencing now that science has recognized the goodness of dairy. The USDA is projecting butter consumption in the United States to increase by 8 percent in 2017. That will bring butter consumption back to where it was 50 years ago. Flavor makes a big difference.

Cheese consumption is climbing too, benefiting from the change in attitude about dairy fat. Cheese, like so many other dairy products, has a great flavor profile that consumers weren’t experiencing because of health concerns. Now they realize that cheese can be an important component of a healthy diet.

Dairy foods are not only nutritious and good tasting, many millennials (and undoubtedly other demographics) also place cheese in the natural food category. Many of today’s consumers are more focused than ever about eating healthy, and part of healthy eating is the consumption of natural foods. We’ve got that one covered too!

The bottom line in all of this is that I think people are going to eat more dairy products in the future but - just to be sure - maybe we should start promoting ice cream as a breakfast food. What better way to allow people to look forward to getting up in the morning than to be able to look forward to starting the day with a bowl of their favorite ice cream? A bowl before bedtime is not a bad choice, either. I have a neighbor who has always eaten a bowl of ice cream as a bedtime snack. He is now well into his late 80’s and still active.

I think I will try eating ice cream for breakfast myself. With the knowledge that 17th century England allowed only the royals to enjoy ice cream, I will feel very privileged to be enjoying it with my morning coffee.

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MESSENGER | JULY 2017

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

AUGUST

JULY

JUNE 6 13 20 27

7 14 21 38

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

Lasts … and lasts … and lasts.

1 7 14 21 28

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2 8 15 22 29

QUALITY WATCH

Quality Training & Continued Education

BY LINDSAY GREEN, MEMBER REPRESENTATIVE AND ANIMAL CARE COORDINATOR

On many of today’s dairies, employees are carrying out essential job duties and it is important to provide quality training and continued education. With finding quality labor becoming increasingly more difficult, those being hired on dairies have very little to no farm experience but if we look at this as an opportunity to teach and shape these individuals, they can be valuable members of your team. Proper training also helps to ensure a safe work place for staff as well as quality animal care on your farm.

In a Dairy Herd magazine article, Jon Wall, a dairy labor consultant from Green Bay, Wisconsin says there are five key ways to ensure proper management to develop quality employees: Clarify. Employees must understand what you need them to do. Put expectations in

writing so they are clear. On a practical level, clarification can be as simple as having consistent colors on teat dip cups: Green for pre-dip; blue for post dip.

Communicate. Once you have clarified what needs to be done, tell them why it must be

“The only thing worse than training your employees and having them leave is NOT training them and having them stay.”

— Henry Ford, Founder of Ford Motor Co

done in a certain way. If you don’t consistently communicate expectations, employees soon figure out what is acceptable, even if it’s not at the higher level of expectation.

Connect. If you expect employees to care about your cows and your dairy, you need

to connect with them on a personal basis. Show them you appreciate them daily. As competition for employees grows, you need to give your employees a reason to stay with you. Show respect for the work people do by keeping equipment in good operating condition and fixing equipment as soon as possible after it breaks.

Manage. “Pay attention. Know the protocols you expect employees to follow. And follow

through. If you see something that is being done incorrectly, say something,” says Wall. It’s best to correct a bad practice immediately, even if it happens on a Friday night and you’re trying to get to bowling league. Left undisciplined, the bad practice will quickly become habit and routine.

Recognize. Some dairies give the same raise every year to every employee. But if you

treat everyone the same, your best performing employees will likely leave and you will be left with average and sub-par performers. Employees who put in extra deserve extra recognition. “Reward what is of value,” says Wall.

In addition to the many benefits properly training your employees will provide your operation, annual employee training is also being required by the National Milk Producers Federation, Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (F.A.R.M.) program. This training requirement can be fulfilled several different ways from an informal refresher with you as the farm owner or a more formal setting like an MMPA milker training school.

More importantly, however you choose to provide training opportunities for your staff it is essential that it be documented! You can find a training activity attendance log, as well as the employee training agreement forms in the resource library at www.nationaldairyfarm. com. If you do not have access to the internet contact your field representative and they would be happy to provide these documents for you.

Resources to help you provide these training opportunities include MMPA Milker Training Schools, MMPA Calf Care Schools, MMPA Field Staff, MSU Extension classes, MERCK Dairy C.A.R.E 365 (dairycare365.com) and your herd veterinarian.

8

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

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NEWS & VIEWS

Producers Scoring 95 percent or higher on Grade A surveys and federal check ratings P H Farms LLC FFHR LLC Snider Farms LLP Marlin Hoover Jeremiah / Rachel Ramer Orva Hershberger Leroy Miller Delmar Beechy David Miller Samuel Jay Bontrager Freeman Bontrager Vernon Miller * Lamar Hochstetler * Ben Herschberger * Ernest Yoder Karl Bontrager Mervn Bontrager Delmar Fry Olen Fry Ernest Mast

MMPA Scholarship Opportunities MMPA offers scholarships to members, children of members and employees of members at Michigan State University and Purdue University. Scholarships have been authorized by the MMPA Board of Directors to encourage post high school study for careers in dairy management. To be considered for any scholarship, the student must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits per semester and maintain a satisfactory grade point average.

Students in the Dairy Management Program of the Institute of Agricultural Technology at Michigan State University may apply for $1,500 (for members of children of members) or $1,250 (for employees of members) scholarships. Michigan State University scholarship applications are due by September 1.

At Purdue University, there is one $1,000 scholarship available for a student who is a member or child of a member.

FOR MORE DETAILS OR TO DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION VISIT MIMILK. COM/MEMBERSHIP/MEMBER-INVOLVEMENT/SCHOLARSHIPS.

*100 percent

May Prices Show Reprieve The USDA reported May’s Class III price was $15.57 per hundredweight, an increase of $0.35 from the previous month and $2.81 above May 2016.

The Class IV Price was $14.49, $0.48 more than April 2017, and $1.40 higher than last May. Meanwhile, USDA’s Farm Service Agency said last week that the combined March-April margin under the MPP program was $8.95 per hundredweight.

10

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

Summer Member Information Meetings to be Held in July Engage with co-op leaders and learn more about current MMPA activities at regional member meetings this month. MMPA will be hosting five informational meetings to provide members with the opportunity to hear an update from co-op leaders on industry and Association issues.

We hope you can join us to discuss the current market situation, milk production trends, MMPA plant performance, and the opportunity to ask questions. Several member meetings will take place this July in various locations across Michigan.

Information about dates and locations will be distributed to members.

MMPA Wins Communications Honors at CCA Institute The Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) awarded MMPA with five communications awards at the 2017 CCA Institute on June 6. MMPA won second place in the news release, brochure and direct mail categories. MMPA also placed third for entries in the small shop portfolio and one-time publication contests. CCA is an organization of 350 professionals who communicate for cooperatives. The association, founded more than 55 years ago, emphasize ideas and strategies aimed at making communications more successful for cooperatives. The annual communications contest is a prestigious competition that received 579 entries in 2017.

MSU AGRICULTURE INNOVATION DAY

FORFUTURE

Focus on

msue.anr.msu.edu/msuaginnovationday

Advisory Committee DISTRICT 1 Brad Hart, Clayton..................................517-445-2649 Josh Lott, Mason.....................................517-740-9981

Focus on Forages and the Future – 2017 Innovation Day Michigan State University (MSU) will host its second annual Agriculture Innovation Day: Focus on Forages and the Future on Aug. 24, 2017, at the Lake City Research and Extension Center located at 5401 West Jennings Rd, Lake City, Michigan, 49651.

The educational field day will deliver a cutting-edge, in-depth look at forages, livestock and the future to help farmers meet growing producer demands. In addition, attendees will hear from MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon over dinner.

Throughout the afternoon and evening, farmers will have the opportunity to participate in nine sessions focused on:

» Making the Most of Reduced-lignin Alfalfa in Your Operation

Art Riske, Hanover..................................517-524-6015 Bruce Lewis, Jonesville ........................517-869-2877 Jeff Horning, Manchester....................734-428-8610

DISTRICT 2 Danny Ransler, Gobles..........................269-628-4218 Dan Ritter, Potterville............................517-645-7318 Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN.......574-825-5198 Michael Oesch, Middlebury, IN.........574-825-2454 Mark Crandall, Battle Creek.................269-660-2229

DISTRICT 3 Bill Stakenas, Free Soil...........................231-425-6913 Burke Larsen, Scottville........................231-425-8988 Gary Nelsen, Grant.................................231-834-7610 Tim Butler, Sand Lake............................269-330-5538 Bill Gruppen, Zeeland...........................616-875-8162

DISTRICT 4 Dave Folkersma, Rudyard....................906-630-1957

» Precision is the Division in Silage

Russ Tolan, Ossineke..............................989-471-2993

» Expand Your Use with Double-cropping

Marvin Rubingh, Ellsworth.................231-588-6084

» Precision Dairy Cattle Monitoring

Ron Lucas, Posen....................................989-379-4694 Jeremy Werth, Alpena...........................989-464-4022

DISTRICT 5

» Finding the Right Mix for Soil Health

Tom Jeppesen, Stanton........................989-506-5287

» Baleage Made Tight, Made Right

Amy Martin, Leroy..................................231-388-0496

» Creating Profitable Beef Operations by Managing Land, Livestock and People

Robert Lee, Marion................................231-743-6794

» Grass-fed Beef – Research and Experience » Is Your Land Regenerating? The Land-to-Market Program Provides the Answer

Bruce Benthem, McBain.......................231-825-8182 Mike Rasmussen, Edmore...................989-304-0233

DISTRICT 6 Aaron Gasper, Lowell............................616-897-2747 Steve Thelen, Fowler.............................989-682-9064 Brad Ritter, Byron....................................586-405-4749

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT MSUE.MSU.EDU/MSUAGINNOVATIONDAY OR CONTACT RON BATES AT BATESR@MSU.EDU.

David Reed, Owosso..............................989-723-2023 Jamie Meyer, Ionia..................................989-640-3372

DISTRICT 7 Scott Kleinhardt, Clare..........................989-386-8037

Upcoming Events July 6 Advisory Committee Meeting, Novi July 17-21 Michigan Dairy Expo, East Lansing July 18 Great Dairy Adventure, East Lansing August 17-18 Outstanding Young Dairy Cooperator Conference, Novi

Philip Gross, Weidman..........................989-289-0670 Jason Elenbaum, Mayville...................989-274-1974 John Bennett, Prescott.........................989-345-4264 James Weber, Vassar..............................989-297-1850

DISTRICT 8 Mike Noll, Croswell.................................810-404-4071 Mike Bender, Croswell..........................810-404-2140 Nick Leipprandt, Pigeon......................517-897-4155 Darwin Sneller, Sebewaing.................989-977-3718 Bill Blumerich, Berlin.............................810-706-2955

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

11

LEGISLATIVE WATCH

DAIRY GROUPS PLEDGE TO WORK ON

NAFTA Modernization

T

wo leading dairy groups said they will work with the Trump Administration to modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to make sure it safeguards open trade with Mexico and confronts increasingly protectionist dairy policies by Canada.

In joint comments sent to the U.S. Trade Representative on June 12, the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) describe the existing North American dairy landscape as one in which U.S. dairy products flow relatively unhindered to Mexico but are curtailed by Canada’s increasing use of policy tools violating international trade obligations.

"NAFTA has accomplished a great deal over the past two-plus decades, but it has also been overtaken by new, unanticipated forms of trade and trade problems,” said Tom Vilsack, U.S. Dairy Export Council president and CEO. “We agree that NAFTA could use a facelift and our industry looks forward to working with the Trump Administration to explore ways to preserve and strengthen it.”

Since NAFTA’s implementation, the United States has shifted from being a consistent net importer of dairy products to being a significant net exporter. Over the past five years, cumulative U.S. dairy exports are more than double the import total.

Last year, the U.S. dairy industry exported $1.2 billion worth of dairy products to Mexico, a dramatic increase from $124 million in 1995. Mexico is the largest U.S. dairy export market by far, roughly double the size of the industry’s second-largest market, Canada.

The comments submitted to USTR say a modernized NAFTA can increase U.S. dairy exports, create jobs and build business partnerships between the three countries. On the other hand, withdrawing from NAFTA could devastate the U.S. dairy industry. Last year’s dairy exports to Mexico alone required the milk equivalent of 1,500 American dairy farms.

U.S. dairy companies have been working with partners in the Mexican dairy industry for years to build the size and variety of cheese demand in Mexico. The comments ask the Administration to make it clear that the U.S. is “vehemently opposed to the imposition of any new restrictions on the market access opportunities for U.S. products relying on common names.”

The document concludes by stating its commitment to work with the Administration to modernize NAFTA. SOURCE: NMPF

12

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

OYDC SNAPSHOT

TOP 10

OYDC 2016 Casey & Laura Sparks

Our kids:

What makes a difference:

Georgia (11), Austin (10) and Levi (7)

Sparks Quaker Acres Hesperia, Michigan Muskegon Local, District 3

Sparks Quaker Acres

A big aspect on our farm, like many farms, is our strong family relationship. My father and brother and myself all put the farm as the top priority, and the wives and children do the same. Everyone is willing to help out when needed.

Our farm: Our herd: 380 cows

Our land: 900 acres

Best part of being a dairy farmer: I enjoy working for myself, caring for land and animals and raising children in an environment that teaches many good life lessons.

What’s next: We are currently installing an automatic calf feeding system to reduce labor and increase calf health. We would like to grow the herd internally and continue to look for ways to reduce input costs while maintaining production.

How we stay positive: We try to only worry about what we can manage and do the best we can in the areas we have control in. Also, being thankful for what we have and thinking of ways of how a situation could be worse helps.

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

13

You Will Never Need SOPs – Until You Do

BY MELISSA HART

When MMPA members were asked to participate in the Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Program Steve Foley of Millington, Michigan, was less than thrilled about the idea of more paperwork. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) were part of the FARM process and having an SOP for each part of the dairy operation was recommended.

S

teve’s daughter, Rachel Foley shared her father’s opinion, “When MMPA said we had to write SOPs I thought they were stupid, because nobody else is going to touch my cows so why would I have to write an SOP?” At that time, there were just five people working on the 200-cow dairy farm: Rachel’s parents, Steve and Diane, her grandmother, one employee and herself. “I thought if I am the only one milking my cows, why do I have to write down what I’m doing?”

Steve made Rachel an offer. “He offered me $200 to write them and we would never have to look at them again, and so I did,” she said. “I made the most beautiful SOP book for everything I could possibly think of that happens on the farm.”

But on Saturday, August 13, 2016, Rachel was lost. She had to feed the cows because her father suddenly passed away the day before in a farm accident. Problem was, her SOP book wasn’t detailed enough to encapsulate the full process.

“At 4 in the morning, the man who fed the cows was dead and I had two nutritionists and they didn’t know how to feed my cows. I had a wonderful book of SOPs that didn’t tell me anything.” The result left Rachel unaware, “I dropped 25 percent of my

14

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

milk production because the guy who did it was gone and I didn’t know how he did it.”

Ten months later Rachel is still struggling to gain back the production she lost because she doesn’t know how he did it.

Calving was another area where Rachel needed help. “As recent as yesterday I delivered a bull calf that came backwards and he died and it would have never happened if my dad had been here.”

Christy Dinsmoore stressed the need for SOPs beyond meeting the requirement for the FARM program.

According to Dinsmoore, day to day tasks are repeated many times and we tend to become complacent or assume that others know how to perform those tasks. They are also vital in emergency situations to keep the farm functioning.

“Rachel has a good example. But there are other examples too. I called on a small farm with two brothers. One was responsible for all the feeding and crops and the other for milking and herd health. The Rachel was told to brother who knew write an SOP so that “When I started about the cows was anyone could do the researching how hospitalized with an job. She quipped, illness leaving the other “With all due respect, I to write useful to care for the cows. He didn’t want just anyone SOPs I found that didn’t know who was delivering my calves.” a picture is worth a pregnant or open, or So, she wrote SOPs for who had been treated, thousand words.” delivering a calf but the or the vaccination specifics were lacking, program because it was “We never covered what all in his brother’s head,” happens when the calf was upside Dinsmoore remarked. down and backwards because I didn’t There are also practical uses of SOPs: want that information for the general to train employees and to prevent public to read and interpret if I weren’t procedural drift. They can be used for there to explain it. So, I didn’t write training new employees or disciplining it down, which is great, until it’s not.” employees because the expectations Today, Rachel would like to know were clearly written. They can serve exactly how her dad delivered a calf as a reminder and help prevent that was upside down and backwards. procedural drift even with experienced MMPA Field Representative Supervisor, employees and managers.

Today Rachel’s SOPs look completely different than her first “pretty” book.

“When I started researching how to write useful SOPs I found that a picture is worth a thousand words.” Rachel continued, “Some things leave way too much to interpretation but if I take a picture of how I want a particular task done, it makes all the difference.”

For instance, she told an employee to bed the calf hutches, one bale of straw for every three hutches. The employee put one full bale of straw into every third hutch. This is the kind of interpretation that Rachel tries to avoid. She also recommended keeping the SOPs to one page each so employees are willing to read them. And if you can’t keep it to one page, then break it down further.

The biggest struggle Dinsmoore has seen

in writing the SOPs are actually taking the time to write them. She said MMPA has a number of templates available and the key is to do them in a format so they will be used and not just collect dust.

“MMPA field reps are a great resource for getting the basics covered but it is up to the producer how far they want to take it,” Dinsmoore stressed.

DairyCare365 has online resources as well as the FARM website. Many of the vet clinics are familiar with the SOP and Herd Health Plans that meet the FARM requirements and are a great resource as well.

WRITING STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOPS) FOR ALL FACETS OF FARM OPERATIONS IS AN IMPORTANT STEP FOR COMPLETING FARM PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS. YET HAVING WELL-WRITTEN AND UNDERSTANDABLE SOPS IS VITAL TO MAKING SURE ALL THOSE INVOLVED IN THE FARM CAN USE THEM FOR TRAINING, REMINDERS AND TO PREVENT PROCEDURAL DRIFT.

through a very emotional time. From manure hauling to pouring concrete to harvesting all their corn silage, this group of friends and former employees kept the farm going.

Rachel’s bottom line for writing SOPs is to, “Do it for your family. Do it for those who have to pick up the pieces if something happens to you.”

With the help of a “Band of Angels” the Foley family has managed to piece together the information they need to keep the farm functioning JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

15

16

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

New Brand Revealed at Northern Indiana Cheese Plant Slice it. Break it. Cube it. Pair it with grapes. Or apples. Or summer sausage.

Cheese is what we’re talking about and at MMPA’s recently acquired cheese plant, we’re taking the reins to put our own mark on the delicious varieties produced from members’ high-quality milk.

» JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

17

From Colby to cheddar to Amish Creamery and more, the cheeses will welcome a label marked “Heritage Ridge Creamery,” as MMPA markets the farmer-owned product for lovers of classic cheese.

Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) launched Heritage Ridge Creamery as its Indiana cheese plant’s new brand during a community Customer Appreciation Day event on June 24. The new brand reflects both the heritage of the plant in its Amish community and the robust history of MMPA as a farmer-owned cooperative.

“With our acquisition of the Indiana cheese plant last fall, we were enthused by the opportunity to diversify our product portfolio and develop a brand owned by our dairy farmer members,” Joe Diglio, MMPA general manager, said. “Our new Heritage Ridge Creamery brand demonstrates our commitment in expanding our presence within the dairy industry while embracing the legacy of the community.”

Approximately 1,300 customers visited the Heritage Ridge Creamery store during the community event, enjoying free ice cream made with a steam powered engine, activities for children and store specials. One lucky attendee won free cheese for a year in the annual raffle. The event fostered connections with the local community as the well-established plant marks a transition.

The Heritage Ridge Creamery brand will market cheeses produced at the Middlebury plant and sold in the on-site retail store. An online store is currently in development and expected to go live later this year at heritageridgecreamery.com.

The facility produces Colby cheese, a softer, milder flavored cheddar cheese, in addition to Colby-Jack, Cheddar, Pepper-Jack cheese and other flavors.

The acquisition last year positions MMPA to further explore expansion opportunities at the Middlebury plant location in the future, starting with the launch of this new brand and internal improvements in plant operations.

The facility currently processes approximately 400,000 pounds of milk per day into longhorn and deli horn cheese, and is operated by MMPA’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Middlebury Cheese Company, LLC.

18

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

THE NEW HERITAGE RIDGE CREAMERY BRAND WAS UNVEILED ON JUNE 24 DURING THE CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY AND IS BEING USED TO MARKET THE PLANT’S CHEESES— SUCH AS COLBY—IN NEW PACKAGING FOR BOTH CUT AND WRAP CHEESE IN ADDITION TO THE LARGER LONG HORNS AND DELI HORNS. THE STOREFRONT FEATURED A NEW HERITAGE RIDGE CREAMERY SIGN WHILE CUSTOMERS ENJOYED ACTIVITIES ON THE GROUNDS OF THE CHEESE PLANT.

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

19

Michigan Milk Messenger Reaches Volume 100

BY ALLISON STUBY MILLER

Vol. 100 – 2017 MILK MARKETED (2016): 4.8 BILLION POUNDS PRESIDENT: KEN NOBIS GENERAL MANAGER: JOE DIGLIO EDITORS: ALLISON STUBY MILLER, SHEILA BURKHARDT

Vol. 90 - 2007

Vol. 80 - 1997

Vol. 70 - 1988

Vol. 60 - 1978

Vol. 50 - 1968

MILK MARKETED: 3.7 BILLION POUNDS

MILK MARKETED: 2.9 BILLION POUNDS

MILK MARKETED: 3 BILLION POUNDS

MILK MARKETED: 2.8 BILLION POUNDS

MILK MARKETED: 2.5 BILLION POUNDS

PRESIDENT: KEN NOBIS

PRESIDENT: ELWOOD KIRKPATRICK

PRESIDENT: ELWOOD KIRKPATRICK

PRESIDENT: GLENN LAKE

PRESIDENT: GLENN LAKE

GENERAL MANAGER:

GENERAL MANAGER: WALTER WOSJE

GENERAL MANAGER: WALTER WOSJE

GENERAL MANAGER: JACK BARNES

GENERAL MANAGER: JACK BARNES

EDITORS: LAURA MOSER, SHEILA BURKHARDT

EDITOR: KEVIN COLE

EDITOR: KEVIN COLE

EDITOR: DON MEYERS

JOHN DILLAND EDITORS: MINDY PRATT, LAURA MOSER, SHEILA BURKHARDT

20

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

The year was 1919. The three-year-old Michigan Milk Producers Association was a federated organization operating out of Howell, Michigan. The goal was selling milk—at a price set by the member-run sales committee—for autonomous local associations organized around the state.

But the young cooperative’s secretary and selling agent, R.C. Reed, knew the membership needed more. He set out on a new endeavor: informing the membership through the Michigan Milk Messenger.

“We have not assumed the work of the publication of a paper to satisfy any idle curiosity, but we are taking this opportunity to satisfy the just claims of our people that we should, as far and as often as possible, acquaint them with the situation of the milk supply and the market in the state and the nation,” he penned on the cover of volume one, issue one.

Through the many years since that first issue rolled off the printing press, the publication itself has changed in numerous ways. The first issues were black and white tabloid newspapers before eventually giving way to a magazine format. Somewhere along the way, the numbering of volumes muddled and more broad changes were made to form the publication of today.

The magazine in your hands is not the same magazine your grandparents read. There may be new themes covered. There may be more photos and less words. There may be a digital edition on this thing called the internet. But in the 100th Volume, our aim remains the same. Subscription costs have remained stable and we know the importance of this work informing our people, just as Reed knew back in 1919.

Reed concluded his column in the first Michigan Milk Messenger, “We feel the responsibility of the obligation we are assuming most keenly. We must not be derelict of duty nor recreant to the trust imposed in the opportunity given us to help mold and fashion the thought and purpose of the food producers of this great commonwealth. As feeble as it may be, we must do our best. And we invite your cooperation.”

Pulled from the archives of the Michigan Milk Messenger, are the first covers of each of the 10 volumes.

I invite you to peek back in your history through these issues.

MICHIGAN MILK MESSENGER EDITORS R.C. REED 1919-1923 B.F. BEACH 1923-1930 I.T. PICKFORD 1930-1946 LEWIS MORELY 1946-1956 RICHARD VENNE 1956-1965 DON MEYERS 1965-1969 JIM ERIKSON 1970-1973 KEVIN COLE 1973-1989 DIANE DEATON 1989-1990 MINDY PRATT 2001-2011 LAURA MOSER 1990-2014 ALEX SCHNABELRAUCH 2012-2015 SHEILA BURKHARDT 1989-PRESENT ALLISON STUBY MILLER 2015-PRESENT

Vol. 40 - 1958

Vol. 30 - 1948

Vol. 20 – 1938

Vol. 10 – 1928

Vol. 1 – 1919

MILK MARKETED: 2.2 BILLION POUNDS

MILK MARKETED: 1.3 BILLION POUNDS

MILK MARKETED: 963 MILLION POUNDS

MILK MARKETED: NOT AVAILABLE

MILK MARKETED: NOT AVAILABLE

PRESIDENT: GLENN LAKE

PRESIDENT: IVAN MAYSTEAD

PRESIDENT: FRED MEYER

PRESIDENT: N.P. HULL

PRESIDENT: N.P. HULL

GENERAL MANAGER: HOWARD SIMMONS

GENERAL MANAGER: HOWARD SIMMONS

GENERAL MANAGER: B.F. BEACH

GENERAL MANAGER: B.F. BEACH

SECRETARY: R.C. REED

EDITOR: RICHARD VENNE

EDITOR: LEWIS MORELY

EDITOR: I.T. PICKFORD

EDITOR: B.F. BEACH

EDITOR: R.C. REED

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

21

INTERN SPOTLIGHT

“It’s interesting to watch how politics affect trades – specifically in dairy – and to see how it comes back to affect our market. It’s also neat to see how certain marketing campaigns do indeed change the demand for dairy.”

— Julia Chamberlain

John Dilland Fellowship Intern: Julia Chamberlain About Julia: I have been a Spartan my whole life as I grew up in Okemos, Michigan, right outside of East Lansing. My family owns a crop farm in Webberville, Michigan, which is where I fell in love with the ag industry. For the past nine years, I have raised dairy feeders and steers to show at the Ingham County Fair. Currently, I am a Junior at Michigan State getting a Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness Management with a minor in Sales.

Why did you apply for MMPA’s Internship?

MMPA was definitely my first choice for an internship. This position was perfect for me since I am interested in supply chain and marketing and wanted to see if it’s something I would want to make a career of. Since I don’t come from a dairy farm, there’s a lot of things I don’t understand such as how the market fluctuates for milk or butter as opposed to grain markets, so now I get to see that first hand. MMPA is also a well-known and respected company and I love telling people that I have the opportunity to intern here!

22

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

What do you like most about working in the Dairy Industry?

After working at Michigan State’s Dairy farm last summer, I was hooked. I grew up loving milk and of course, cows, but always saw myself pursuing a business career in something non-ag.

After being surrounded by such a great community of people, I realized where I really wanted to be. I get to go to work knowing I’m helping not only the dairy farmer but also helping consumers understand the truth about dairy.

Why are you interested in dairy?

I’m very interested in watching the market trends for dairy both domestically and internationally. Due to increasing globalization, dairy is exported all over the world. It’s interesting to watch how politics affect trades specifically in dairy, and to see how it comes back to affect our market. It’s also neat to see how certain marketing campaigns do indeed change the demand for dairy.

What does your internship entail?

I will be working on several different supply chain projects as well as with the member relations department.

Throughout the summer I will be helping update and revamp spreadsheets to help track farms production and customer’s orders. There are also several events like Dairy Day at the Capitol I will be at to represent MMPA. With the other tours and meetings I will attend, you could say I will be having a very dairy summer!

What have you learned on the job so far?

So far I have gained a better understanding of who makes up MMPA’s producers and customers. I’ve had the chance to see marketing reports from the past years and it’s really interesting to see trends in production and learn about why they happened. Getting to work with member relations has also been fun and I’m looking forward to the various events planned throughout the summer. I’ve also learned that Metro Detroit traffic is horrible.

What are your future plans?

My goal for the future is to secure a marketing job within the dairy industry to help educate consumers and help the industry grow. Further down the road I would love to open a farm or shop of some sort that employs adults on the autism spectrum.

THE JOHN DILLAND FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM IS NAMED IN HONOR OF JOHN DILLAND, FORMER MMPA GENERAL MANAGER, WHO RETIRED AFTER 35 YEARS OF SERVICE IN 2010. THE INTENT OF THE PROGRAM IS TO ENCOURAGE HIGH CALIBER STUDENTS TO CONSIDER CAREERS AT MMPA, A BUSINESS UNIQUELY SUITED TO ENHANCE THE FINANCIAL HEALTH AND MANAGEMENT OF FAMILY

DAIRY PRODUCERS.

INTERN SPOTLIGHT

“Dairy is a big deal - to producers, and consumers.

As a veterinarian, I hope to help with both the animal health side of things as well as advocating for the dairy industry in the most knowledgeable way possible, in hopes to overcome the misunderstandings and false advertising thrown at today’s consumers.

— Bethany Myers

MSU Food Systems Fellowship Intern: Bethany Myers About Bethany: I grew up in southern Michigan. I showed livestock as a Branch County 4-H member and held many leadership roles as a member of Branch Area Career Center FFA. I attended Michigan State University for my Bachelors in Animal Science, and will graduate from MSU with my DVM in 2020.

Why did you apply for MMPA’s internship?

I know that if I go into general practice, I will need to at least have large animals in my practice! That being said I want to get the most experience I can with any large animal species, dairy included!

What do you like most about working in the dairy industry?

I like how large the dairy industry is and how much there is to learn and improve on. Growing up with livestock and in the animal agriculture industry I’ve had a basic understanding of dairy cows and dairy farms, but so far in my internship I’ve expanded on it tremendously.

Why are you interested in dairy?

What have you learned on the job so far?

Dairy is a big deal - to producers, and consumers. As a veterinarian, I hope to help with both the animal health side of things as well as advocating for the dairy industry in the most knowledgeable way possible, in hopes to overcome the misunderstandings and false advertising thrown at today’s consumers.

Even only a few weeks in, I have learned so much. Not only am I learning basics of what goes on at the farms on a day to day basis, but how the industry is moving forward as a whole.

What does your internship entail?

This summer I will be riding along with field reps to gain a better understanding of what they do, enabling me to better inform clients and producers of what resources MMPA offers. I will also be working on a mastitis management reference guide to aid producers. Furthermore, I will be working with Dr. Erskine from MSU on a research project looking at the efficiency and improvement of teat prep in the parlor.

What are your future plans?

There’s lots of options in front of me, but a mixed animal practice is a strong contender.

TO HELP PROVIDE EXPERIENCES FOR VETERINARY STUDENTS FOCUSED ON SERVING THE FOOD ANIMAL INDUSTRY, THE MSU COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE ESTABLISHED THE FOOD SYSTEMS FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM IN 2006. BY JOINING FORCES WITH INDUSTRY PARTNERS, LIKE MMPA, THE GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A TRAINING EXPERIENCE THAT BROADENS THE STUDENT’S VISION OF THE FOOD INDUSTRY.

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

23

YOUR DAIRY PROMOTION AT WORK

CrossFit Games Champ Rich Froning Joins the Milk Means More Team

“I encourage the athletes to consume dairy daily and to use it as part of their recovery,” he added. “In fact, at my last CrossFit facility, I had a five-gallon milk dispenser on the wall.”

CROSSFIT CHAMPION RICH FRONING, JR. RECENTLY JOINED THE MILK MEANS MORE CAMPAIGN.

24

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

CrossFit champion Rich Froning, Jr. recently joined the Milk Means More campaign, where he will serve as an athlete ambassador promoting the benefits of dairy as part of a healthy diet. The four-time worldwide CrossFit Games winner, member of Team CrossFit Mayhem Freedom, and owner of CrossFit Mayhem, joins several other Milk Means More professional athletes, including Detroit Pistons All-Star Andre Drummond, gold medalist swimmer Allison Schmitt, gold medalist soccer player Lindsay Tarpley, and U.S. champion runner Leah O’Conner.

“A lot of people are afraid of carbs, especially CrossFit athletes,” said Froning of his decision to join Milk Means More. “I also know quite a few athletes who avoid dairy and especially chocolate milk, and I never understood the negative connotation.

Dairy is a great source of protein, and the ratio of protein and carbs is perfect for recovery.”

“I encourage the athletes to consume dairy daily and to use it as part of their recovery,” he added. “In fact, at my last CrossFit facility, I had a fivegallon milk dispenser on the wall.”

“The nine essential nutrients in dairy are an important part of a healthy diet and can be of benefit before and after training sessions,” said Sharon Toth, RD, CEO of the United Dairy Industry of Michigan.

“I make my protein shakes with milk, which helps me get an extra boost compared to water,” Froning said when asked about an example of how he works dairy in to his diet. “Plus, it just tastes better, and the fat in milk is perfect for giving me the energy I need for back-to-back daily workouts.”

Rich has ties to Michigan’s dairy industry through cousins who own a dairy farm in Sunfield, Mich.

As a Milk Means More ambassador, Froning will promote dairy as part of an athletic diet on social media and through special appearances.

Offering advice to other athletes who want to emulate his success, Froning said, “Have fun. Don’t get too caught up in the competition.

Play as many sports as you can; the more things you try, the better off you’ll be in life because every new experience teaches you something you didn’t know before.”

POLICIES MERCHANDISE

MMPA Policy on Drug Residue in Milk MILK ON FARM – DRUG RESIDUE SUSPECTED

MILK SHIPPED — POSITIVE DRUGS CONFIRMED

If a member suspects milk in the farm bulk tank contains drug residue:

If a member ships milk from the farm and testing by approved laboratory methods show that the milk contained drug residue, the member will be assessed the penalties imposed by the state regulatory agency and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums.

1. Call a MMPA member representative to have the milk in the tank tested. A “hold” must be placed on the tank contents until the test results are known.

OR 2. The member can test the milk on the farm. If dumped, the member must be sure to take the stick reading, record the number of pounds of milk and report the information to their member representative.

• If the tank tests negative (no drugs present), the milk may be released and shipped.

• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the member representative will authorize the member to dump the tank of milk. The member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* • If for any reason MMPA personnel must pick up samples at the farm for testing three or more times within 12 consecutive months, the member involved will be charged $25 per trip.

If a loss is incurred by MMPA due to the disposal and/or non-marketability of a load of milk or milk products containing drug residue, then the member responsible will be provided an invoice for the entire value of the loss plus transportation and disposal costs as required by the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance.

This invoice may be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier.

MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made.

Milk from that member’s farm tank must be tested and found clear of drugs before the next tank of milk can be picked up.

A hauler whose entire load sample shows the presence of drugs will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all show negative.

ALL POSITIVE DRUG RESIDUE SHIPMENTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.

MMPA Milk Quality Policy QUALITY QUESTIONABLE

REJECTED LOAD SHIPMENT

When a member suspects that the milk in the farm bulk tank is of poor quality they should call a MMPA member representative who will authorize milk in the tank to be dumped. If the member dumps the milk on their own, they must be sure to take the stick reading and record the number of pounds of milk, and report the information to the member representative.

If…

If the milk is dumped, the member will be paid 75% of the value of the tank of milk involved.* In order to receive payment for an added water voluntary dump, the member must install a Swingline Safety Switch. The Swingline Safety Switch can be ordered from the Mt. Pleasant warehouse. The MMPA member representative will verify the switch has been installed.

Reimbursement for the Swingline Safety Switch and the voluntary dump will then be made to the member.

The member assumes all liability for losses incurred as a result of shipping poor quality or contaminated milk.

MILK SHIPPED – HIGH BACTERIA COUNT

If… 1. a load of milk is received (unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. a sample from the load has a bacteria count of 300,000 or more and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members having a bacteria count of 300,000 or more, then the member or members involved will be charged the value of one-half of one day’s production** and will be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums. * The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period. ** For members using more than one bulk tank, the assessment will be based on the value of milk in the tank or tanks in violation of the MMPA quality policy.

1. a load of milk is rejected (not unloaded) at a dairy processing plant and, 2. the milk cannot be sold through normal Grade A channels for reasons of quality which results in the load being sold or disposed of at a loss to MMPA, and, 3. testing of the individual member samples on that load identifies the member or members that caused the contamination or rejection of the load, then, the member or members responsible will be charged the full value of the loss to MMPA plus transportation and disposal costs, and be disqualified for raw and PI bacteria count premiums except for loads rejected for temperature.

4. MMPA will provide an invoice to the member for the amount of the loss, to be submitted to the member’s insurance carrier. MMPA must receive settlement on the invoice within 90 days of issuance. If settlement is not made within 90 days, the full amount of the invoice will be deducted from the next milk check unless other settlement arrangements are made.

If a member has three or more occurrences within 12 consecutive months, that member must appear before the MMPA board of directors to review steps taken on the farm to correct the quality problem which will enable MMPA to continue to market the milk for this member.

HAULER A hauler whose entire load sample exceeds 300,000 cells per mL bacteria count will be charged the amount of an average shipment on that load if the individual member samples all are less than 100,000.

A hauler will be responsible for all costs incurred by MMPA for loads rejected for temperature.

Charges and assessments made under this program will be withheld from milk checks of members or haulers involved.

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

25

MERCHANDISE

Chemical, Sanitizer and Teat Dip Contact Information

Less-Cu Foot Bath Enhancer With summer in full swing, many of our members will be using their footbaths more frequently. You may already know that the warehouse in Mt. Pleasant sells copper sulfate for footbaths, but we also sell a product designed to make its use more efficient and effective.

These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB

Less-Cu footbath enhancer reduces copper sulfate costs as it increases the

effectiveness of your footbath mix as a preventative and conditioning solution for hoof health. It works by making copper sulfate more soluble and reduces the introduction of heavy metal to the environment for a clear, effective solution to hoof conditions. Less-Cu is a unique livestock foot bath cleaning additive for dairy livestock.

The cleaning effectiveness of Less-Cu is based on a stabilized quat and phosphoric acid combination and effectively controls the foot bath at ph +5. It can help to

24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026 For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or one of the following service representatives:

reduce the amount of copper sulfate usage by up to 50 percent. All it takes is one-half gallon of Less-Cu per 50 gallon mix to cut copper sulfate usage in half.

Use the same bath replenishment frequency, preferably 200- 300 cows as with traditional foot bath preventative program. This product is only available in 15 gallon containers.

Stock number:

Description:

Member price:

5924

Less-Cu 15g

$429.19

Please feel free to call the warehouse with any questions you may have.

You may use our toll free number, 1-877-367-6455 or 989-317-8370.

Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928 Jason Wolfe 1890 Canter Dr. Riner, VA 24149 540-553-5755

1. Place order through your milk hauler 2. Call in your order:

THREE WAYS TO ORDER YOUR MMPA MERCHANDISE

26

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

Duane Farmer, Supervisor................................................................989-317-8370

Toll Free..................................................................................................877-367-6455

Orders (Novi)............................................................... 800-572-5824 then dial 2

3. Fax in your order:

MMPA Merchandise fax..................................................................... 989-317-8372

MERCHANDISE PREMIUMS

MMPA Quality Premium Program MMPA Member Testing Fees Somatic Cell Count premiums and deductions (in addition to Federal Order SCC Adjustments computed in the producer pay price) will be paid at the following levels: 50,000 or below.............................................................................+55¢/cwt.

51,000-75,000..................................................................................+50¢/cwt.

76,000-100,000..............................................................................+45¢/cwt.

101,000-125,000..............................................................................+40¢/cwt.

126,000-150,000.............................................................................+35¢/cwt.

151,000-175,000...............................................................................+30¢/cwt.

176,000-200,000............................................................................+25¢/cwt.

201,000-225,000............................................................................+20¢/cwt.

226,000-250,000............................................................................+15¢/cwt.

251,000-300,000........................................................................... +00¢/cwt.

301,000-400,000.......................................................................... - 30¢/cwt.

401,000-500,000.........................................................................-$1.00/cwt.

501,000-600,000.........................................................................-$1.50/cwt.

Payment for testing will be made through an automatic milk check deduction. All costs are listed per individual sample.

Cow Tests: $1 Cow samples may be tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, gram negative and/or SCC. Additional testing can be coordinated through your MMPA member representative to include: Raw bacteria count and components.

All herd tests must be scheduled with the laboratory through your MMPA member representative.

Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample.

601,000 and greater...................................................................-$2.00/cwt.

A payment of 5¢/cwt. will be added for each of the following, if the count is equal to or below: • 10,000 Raw Bacteria Count • 20,000 Pre-Incubated (PI) Count There will be a deduction of 10¢/cwt. for: • Greater than 100,000 Raw Bacteria Count A high raw count deduction will be waived if the producer has received the quality premium the previous three months for raw bacteria count.

To qualify for Raw and PI Bacteria Count premiums there must not be any of the following during the month: • Positive drug residue • Abnormal freeze points • High load count shipment or rejected load shipment • #3 or #4 sediment • Raw Bacteria count over 100,000 The count levels for raw and PI will be determined on one test run per month.

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 350,000 or less

• Mycoplasma Cultures...........................................................................$13 • Bacteriology Cultures..........................................................................$15 – Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA........................................................................................................$6 • Johne’s Milk Test - PCR.........................................................................................................$40 - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Bovine Leukosis Test - ELISA – cows.........................................................................................$6 - ELISA – tank......................................................................................... $10 • Milk Pregnancy ELISA.................................................................... $4.50

Lab test results by mail: $2/month All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA member representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol. Lab form provided below for your convenience.

NORTHSTAR MI LABORATORIES Loc/Hlr/Producer #_________________________________________ Sample Date_____________________ Member name______________________________________________ Sample ID_______________________ BLV ELISA _________

Johne’s ELISA _________

Johne’s PCR _________

Pregnancy _________

Refer to fee schedule above for current pricing. The cost of testing is the responsibility of the producer.

To avoid potential service charges, this card MUST be filled out completely when sending samples to be tested by NorthStar Labs.

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

27

FREELINERS

« Freeliners and Classifieds can now be submitted online. » Visit www.mimilk.com/michigan-milk-messenger/advertise/ freeliner-and-classified-ads

Freeliner Policy

Bulls

The Freeliners column is open to current MMPA members who wish to advertise—at no charge—goods or services relating directly to their dairy farm operations.

Registered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top AI sires. Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI. 989-862-4291 or visit www. greenmeadowfarms.com.

• An item submitted will be published for no more than two consecutive months (one month, unless otherwise requested). After that, it will be withdrawn.

• It will be published again for no more than two consecutive months only if the member resubmits the item by writing or calling the Novi office.

• Reference to a name of a firm or other commercial enterprise with which a member is involved will be deleted, with permission of the member.

• If the member does not wish such deletion, he/she may choose to have the item published as a Classified Ad at the regular per-line Classified Ad rate.

• Freeliners must be received by the 10th of the month preceding desired month of publication.

rebuild. Make an offer. 616-7965432.

Service age Holstein bulls.

Call Steve Alexander, 810-622-8548 evenings or 810-404-8548.

Registered Holstein breeding bulls, all AI sired from top bulls, b&w, red, red carrier and some polled, high production, low SCC herd. Bulls are priced to sell. Ver Hage Holsteins, 269-673-4886 or 269-217-6076, ask for Tim. www.verhageholsteins.com.

Equipment John Deere 7000 Corn Planter, 4-row wide, finger pickup, dry fertilizer. John Deere 643 corn head, wide row. 1000 acres after complete

20 x 70 Harvestore Silo, newer roof, no unloader. FREE - you take down.

231-510-4978.

Set of Axle Duals with Rims for Case International tractor, 18 x 4 x 38, $1,200 each. 231-347-9534, Petoskey.

Kuhn Hay Merger MM300, excellent condition, used very little. Kuhn Rotary Rake. 3970 John Deere Chopper with 7-ft. hay pickup, excellent condition, always housed, ready to go. 616-218-9350.

H-1000 Haybuster Tub Grinder. It has two new screens, good hammers and a new pan with like new augers.

Also, two new 53” x 7’ footbaths – never used. Call 989-315-1104.

Hoof trim tilt table, no electricity required $400. Call 269-838-1637 or 269-838-1638, Hastings, MI. 1990 4455 MFWD, 3800 hrs., duals, runs excellent, $32,000.

DeLaval Plate Cooler, $1,200.

989-330-6416.

LEGENDAIRY. No bull.

Co-Products Menu Hominy, oat hulls, wheat midds, citrus pulp, malt sprouts, beet pulp, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten feed, wet feeds and more!

Milking Equipment 2 DeLaval #78 Vacuum Pumps; one 5 hp. one 7.5 hp. DeLaval 1.5” pipeline and receiver group. DeLaval Dellatron pulsators; 7 - 60/40 and 2 - 65/35. All reconditioned. 4 Surge orbit claws. 45 looped freestalls.

Everything in very good condition.

Carleton MI. 734-277-4364.

Misc.

Non-GMO

products available

Contact merchandisers at ZFS, Inc: MI/IN/OH: 866.888.7082 WI: 800-523-6760 www.zfsinc.com/divisions/ingredients

28

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

13 Calf Tel calf hutches.

517-445-2662

CLASSIFIED ADS CONCRETE GROOVING BY

ALPHALFA HAYLAGE (excellent &

Cost for classifieds is $20 per ad,

TRI-STATE SCABBLING, home of

fair grades) & CORN SILAGE. Call

up to six lines. All ads must be

the 2” wide groove. Best traction,

989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

received by the 10th of the month

lowest prices. (800) 554-2288.

before the month of desired

www.tristatescabbling.com

publication. Send check or money

NEW KATOLIGHT PTO GENERATOR, 60 KW, keep

order for $20 for up to 6 lines

A SURE WAY TO KEEP YOUR COWS

everyone warm and producing if

with your order. MMPA neither

UPRIGHT! Concrete grooving/texturing

there is a power outage. Call Brent

sponsors nor endorses products

provides high quality traction in new

at 248-770-5122.

or services advertised in the

& old concrete, fast service. Call for

HOOF TRIMMING - 20 YEARS

Messenger. You may submit

your below pricing 989-635-1494.

OF EXPERIENCE. Also doing fly

your ads by:

BLUE RIBBON HOOF TRIMMING, LLC.

control and cement grooving.

MAIL:

Classified Ads

FOR SALE: NEW & USED MILK

Michigan Milk Messenger

TANKS. We stock all sizes, makes,

P.O. BOX 800

Novi, MI 48376-8002

Gibson Hoof Care (Tom)

EMAIL: Muszynski@mimilk.com FAX: 248-426-3412

989-239-6843.

models. Special prices to co-op

BARN WHITE WASHING AND

members, corporate & private

CLEANING WITH HIGH PRESSURE

farms. Contact us anytime day or

AIR: Serving all Michigan and

night. Spring special 2000 gal.

Indiana. Miller Spray Service, Inc.

Muellers for $13,900 & up. 2700 &

574-825-9776.

4000 gal. Muellers call for quote.

800-558-0112.

OPPERMAN GROOVING: We can

DRY HAY & STRAW (large & small

fix your scabbled floors. Diamond

bales) & BARLEY FOR FEED.

sawed grooves, no hammering

989-723-1886 or 989-277-1414.

SALESPERSON: New Tanks Sales, MI. www.burchtank.com. Industry experience required. Excellent pay and benefits. Email sherri.froling@burchtank.com or call 517-474-7724. 2253 Enterprise Dr., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858

or cracking of concrete. No hoof damage. Call Opperman Grooving Inc., Portland. 517-647-7381.

DAVIDSON CEMENT GROOVING, INC: NO water needed. Wider, rougher grooves for better traction. We also offer texturing for your previously grooved floors. Three operators will travel Michigan and other states. No

Concrete Grooving and Texturing Call: Jeff Brisky - Owner Toll Free: 1-800-294-1202 Cell: 1-716-353-1137

interest payment terms. Est. since 1987. Call 1-800-365-3361.

REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS OVER 100 SERVICE AGE BULLS FOR YOUR SELECTION! A special herd sire or a truck load of breeder bulls.

Ready to go to work on your farm!

• Sired by the top sires from the U.S. and Canada • From our top production cows

PTO and Automatic Start Generators

GREEN MEADOW FARMS 6400 Hollister Road, Elsie, MI 48831 Phone: 989-862-4291

1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

www.hamiltondist.com

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

29

MARKET REPORT

Statistical Summary AMS Survey Prices (monthly average, per pound)

Cheese $1.5390

| FOR MILK MARKETED IN MAY 2017

Market Statistics - Mideast Federal Order #33

# This Month # Year Ago % Change Total Class 1 Sales

534,246,835

520,708,332

+2.60

Total Class 2 Sales

381,693,682

343,231,272

+11.21

Total Class 3 Sales

487,268,151

636,326,768

-23.42

Total Class 4 Sales

332,374,392

325,375,822

+2.15

1,735,583,060

1,825,642,194

-4.93

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

30.8%

28.5%

Mideast Federal Order #33 Total Producers............................................................................................................. 5,021 Avg. Daily Production per farm............................................................................11,150 Avg. Protein Test.........................................................................................................3.09% Avg. Butterfat Test......................................................................................................3.71%

Butter $2.1644

Avg. Oth Solids Test...................................................................................................5.76% Avg. SCC - MMPA.................................................................................................... 161,000

Component Pricing Information Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price /lb........................................................................................................$1.7723

Milk Powders NonfatDry Milk $0.8704 Dry Whey $0.5094

National Trends* (production in millions of pounds)

*For 23 States 30

MESSENGER | JULY 2017

Butterfat Price /lb....................................................................................................$2.4134 Other Solids Price /lb.............................................................................................$0.3196 Class III Price @ 3.5%................................................................................................. $15.57 Prod. Price Diff /cwt. - Mich Mkt...........................................................................($0.10) Uniform Price @ 3.5%............................................................................................... $15.47 SCC Adjustment /cwt /1000............................................................................. $0.00075

California Wisconsin New York Idaho Texas Michigan Pennsylvania Minnesota New Mexico Washington Ohio Indiana Total U.S. U.S Y-T-D

2017

2016

% Change

3,515 3,554 -1.1 2,622 2,641 -0.7 1,323 1,293 +2.3 1,255 1,258 -0.2 1,064 928 +14.7 993 955 +4.0 977 957 +2.1 868 846 +2.6 727 680 +6.9 564 572 -1.4 494 487 +1.4 370 362 +2.2 17,752 17,442 +1.8 85,117 83,851 +1.5

MMPA STAFF MERCHANDISE

MMPA Field Staff

Novi Headquarters

Manager of Field Services Ben Chapin, Blanchard......................................989-289-0731

Main Office Local line...................................................... 248-474-6672 Toll free......................................................... 800-572-5824

Northwest Area Supervisor Sara Michalek, Portland.....................................248-305-0537 Animal Care Coordinator Deb Gingrich, Leroy...........................................248-520-3580 Frank Brazeau, Oconto, WI................................906-250-0337 Lyndsay Earl, Ludington.....................................231-519-2455 Elyse Martin, Charlotte......................................810-701-6460 Dirk Okkema, Blanchard.................................. 248-756-2062

Northeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Christy Dinsmoore, Fairgrove.............................248-513-7920 Animal Care Coordinator Lindsay Green, East Lansing...............................989-488-8159 Ben Butcher, Durand.........................................248-514-5273 Ashley Herriman, Herron...................................269-245-6632 Bridget Moore, Snover......................................231-414-4539

Southwest Area Supervisor Dave Brady, Grass Lake..... 517-522-5965 or (c) 517-937-9061 Energy Auditor Ed Zuchnik, Three Rivers....................................269-967-7351 Krista Schrock, Orland, IN..................................269-986-6792 Emily Smith, Bronson.........................................269-535-0822 Brittni Tucker, Wyoming....................................248-880-3785

Southeast Area Supervisor & Mastitis Management Specialist Steve Lehman, Ithaca....... 989-875-3441 or (c) 989-330-1638 Rachel Botta......................................................248-533-2288 Joe Packard, Manchester...................................248-520-3481

General Manager Joe Diglio................................................................ ext. 202 Chief Financial Officer Josep Barenys......................................................... ext. 240 Hedging and Business Development Aaron Beak............................................................. ext. 256

Officers

Member and Government Relations Sheila Burkhardt..................................................... ext. 208

Mark Halbert, Vice President

Management Information Systems Andrew Caldwell.....................................................ext. 304 Quality Amandeep Dhillon.................................................. ext. 305

Laboratory Supervisor Patti Huttula........................................................... ext. 219

Merchandise Coordinator, Energy Auditor Katie Pierson.....................................................989-289-9686

Kris Wardin, St. Johns 989-640-9420 Gertie van den Goor, Marlette 989-550-8453

Member Services Dean Letter................................................... 989-289-9251

Mark Halbert, Battle Creek 269-964-0511

Milk Sales Carl Rasch............................................................... ext. 244

Mark Iciek, Gladwin 989-387-4767

Credit/Insurance Cheryl Schmandt.................................................... ext. 210

District Directors

Communications Allison Stuby Miller................................................. ext. 296

1. Hank Choate Cement City 517-529-9032

Human Resources Bill Zoli.................................................................... ext. 301

Supervisor: Duane Farmer Main Line......................................................... 989-317-8370 Toll Free............................................................ 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)..................................800-572-5824, then dial 2 Fax................................................................... 989-317-8372

Todd Hoppe, General Counsel

Operations Ed Jaquay............................................................... ext. 248

Sustainability Coordinator Kendra Kissane, Grand Rapids...........................248-880-4234

Merchandise - Mt. Pleasant

Josep Barenys, Asst. Treasurer

Ken Nobis, St. Johns 989-224-6170 or 248-474-6672, ext. 202

Member Relations Jessica Welch.......................................................... ext. 303

Constantine (Daily, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.).........800-391-7560

Joe Diglio, GM / Secretary

Sales James Feeney.......................................................... ext. 258

Bulk Tank Calibration John Lehman, Elsie............................................248-444-6775

Ovid (Daily, 6 a.m.-10 p.m.)..................... 989-834-2515

Eric Frahm, Treasurer

Directors-At-Large

Supply Chain Therese Tierney....................................................... ext. 217

Novi (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)

In Michigan....................................................800-572-5824 Toll Free 800-233-2405

Ken Nobis, President

Manufactured Product Sales Jim Dodson............................................................. ext. 229

Other Member Services

MMPA Labs

Board of Directors

Manufacturing Plants Constantine, Michigan Marc Hopkins, Interim Plant Manager........... 269-435-2835 Ovid, Michigan Colt Johnson, Plant Manager........................ 989-834-2221 Heritage Ridge Creamery, Middlebury, Indiana Dave Davis, Interim Plant Manager................ 574-825-9511 If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, please contact the representatives listed in your area. Your assigned member representative is listed on your quality statements or can be found by visiting mimilk.com/contact/ field-staff and searching by your producer number.

2. Tim Hood Paw Paw 269-657-5771 3. David Pyle Zeeland 616-772-1512 4. Corby Werth Alpena 989-464-5436 5. Doug Chapin Remus 231-972-2106 6. Tony Jandernoa Fowler 989-593-2224 7. Eric Frahm Frankenmuth 989-652-3552 8. Scott Lamb Jeddo 810-327-6135

JULY 2017 | MESSENGER

31

“WE

KEEP ADDING SERVICES, AND YOU KEEP ADDING TO YOUR OUTPUT. I DON’T THINK THAT’S A COINCIDENCE.”

Gaylen Guyer DuPont Pioneer Dairy Account Manager

Chad Erickson Pioneer Sales Professional

The Silage Zone® resource combines proven products, unmatched support and forage management solutions to help you achieve success.

See more at pioneer.com/silagestories.

PIONEER® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of DuPont, Pioneer or their respective owners. © 2017 PHII. DUPPFO17035_VA_070117_MMM

Ken Hein Dairy Producer Vince Tichy Encirca Certified Services Agent