Michigan Milk Messenger: December 2012

December 2012 Volume 95 Issue 6

Michigan Milk Messenger 1

2 December 2012

December 2012

12

Contents

Volume 95 Issue 6 www.mimilk.com

Features

20

12 Doing It On Her Own Rosemary Rice ~ District 8 16 Bloggers Get Up-Close and Personal with Dairy 18 MMPA Leaders Gather to Prepare for Local Meetings

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20 Living a Dairy Paradox

Margie Weiss ~ District 10 22 Milker Training School — Offering hands-on training for

members and their employees 23 2012-13 MMPA Local Meetings 24 2012-13 MMPA Local Officers 28 NMPF/NDB/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting Snapshot Recap 30 Securing Dairy’s Future – 2012 NMPF Young

Cooperators Conference

Departments

Managing Editor...................... Sheila Burkhardt Editors........................................... Laura Moser

.................................. Alex Schnabelrauch Advertising Manager.............. Nancy Muszynski Circulation............................................... 4,200

MMPA Matters................................................ 5 Quality Watch.................................................. 6 News & Views.................................................. 8 Legislative Watch............................................ 10 Merchandise Memo........................................ 32 Freeliners........................................................ 34 Classifieds...................................................... 36 Policies........................................................... 37 Market Report................................................ 38 MMPA Lab Lines........................................... 39 MMPA Staff ................................................... 39

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.

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

Telephone: 248-474-6672 FAX: 248-474-0924 Periodical postage paid at Novi, MI and at additional offices.

December 2012 Volume 95 Issue 6

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

(ISSN 0026-2315)

On the Cover

This month’s cover art is a print titled “Well Hello There” by Rural Artist Bonnie Mohr. Visit Bonnie’s website to see her entire collection: www. bonniemohr.com.

Michigan Milk Messenger 1

Michigan Milk Messenger 3

Michigan Milk Producers Association

Michigan Milk Producers Association, established in 1916, is a member owned and operated dairy cooperative serving approximately 2,200 dairy farmers in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Ohio.

Board of Directors

Officers President: Ken Nobis Vice President: Bob Kran Treasurer: Mark Halbert General Manager/Secretary: Clay Galarneau Ass’t. Treasurer: Joe Diglio General Counsel: David VanderHaagen

Mission Statement

“To market our members’ milk to the greatest advantage possible.”

Directors-At-Large Ken Nobis, St. Johns .........................989-224-6170

or 248-474-6672, ext. 201 Rodney Daniels, Whittemore.............989-756-4935 Mark Halbert, Battle Creek................269-964-0511 District Directors 1. Hank Choate, Cement City...........517-529-9032 2. Tim Hood, Paw Paw....................269-657-5771 4. Dan Javor, Hastings......................269-948-8345 5. Brent Wilson, Carson City............989-584-3481 6. Brad Ritter, Byron........................810-266-4091 7. James Reid, Jeddo........................810-327-6830 8. Leonard Brown, Sandusky............810-648-4505 10. Eric Frahm, Frankenmuth............989-652-3552 11. Bob Kran, Free Soil......................231-464-5889 12. John Kronemeyer, Pickford..........906-647-7638

Advisory Committee District One Brad Hart, Clayton Perry Cisco, Hudson Carlton Evans, Litchfield Glenn Preston, Quincy

517-445-2649 517-547-3231 517-398-0629 517-639-4182

District Six John Hufnagel, Westphalia Anthony Jandernoa, St. Johns Aaron Gasper, Lowell David Reed, Owosso

989-640-1394 989-593-2224 616-897-2747 989-723-8635

District Two Donald Bever, Delton Francis Burr, Mendon Richard Thomas, Middlebury, IN Susan Troyer, Goshen, IN

269-671-5050 269-778-3552 574-825-5198 574-533-4506

District Four David Bivens, Bellevue Jeff Butler, Nashville Mark Crandall, Battle Creek David Lott, Mason

269-758-3980 517-852-1859 269-660-2229 517-676-4593

District Five Tom Jeppesen, Stanton Bill Jernstadt, Big Rapids Robert Lee, Marion Mike Rasmussen, Edmore

4 December 2012

989-762-5399 231-796-4650 231-743-6794 989-762-5380

District Ten John Bennett, Prescott Rod Fowler, Chesaning Scott Kleinhardt, Clare Ken Daniels, Sterling

989-345-4264 989-845-6131 989-386-8037 989-654-2546

District Eleven District Seven Bill Blumerich, Berlin Pat Bolday, Emmett Scott Lamb, Jeddo Chuck White, Fowlerville

810-395-2926 810-395-7139 810-327-6135 517-521-3564

District Eight Mike Bender, Croswell 810-679-4782 Tim Kubacki, Sebewaing 989-883-3249 Dale Phillips, Marlette 989-635-7917 Steve Schulte, Harbor Beach 989-479-9339

Jim Good, Caledonia Frank Konkel, Hesperia David Pyle, Zeeland Bill Stakenas, Free Soil

616-891-1414 231-854-8041 616-772-1512 231-757-9340

District Twelve Robert Barron, Gladstone Ron Lucas, Posen Corby Werth, Alpena Jeremy Werth, Alpena

906-786-7027 989-379-4694 989-379-3772 989-464-4022

MMPA Matters

By Ken Nobis President

2012 —A Year of Surprises

H

ere we are ready to close out another year. Sometimes it feels like we just started 2012, but already the end is in sight. Of course some of the events of 2012 couldn’t end soon enough, like the automated telephone calls leading up to the election. If you don’t appreciate hot weather, the summer of 2012 probably lasted too long for you. If you like the sound of falling rain and you live south of I-96, you weren’t treated to that sound often enough; if you are located south of I-94 you hardly heard it at all. However, those of you who live in “God’s country” north of M-57 probably feel very blessed to have heard the rain and felt the heat that produced bumper crops for many.

Actually, most of the MMPA membership area avoided the worst of this year’s monumental drought.

Even members who farm in the very dry or semi-dry areas have expressed surprise with the respectable yield of their crops given the small amount of rain.

We all like nice surprises, and another one came in the form of a 13th check despite the poor market conditions during most of 2012 that dimmed our prospects for that check to appear. The market took a favorable turn for MMPA in the last two months of our fiscal year. Because of good planning and practices, MMPA was positioned to take full advantage of the opportunity. For this we can thank our General Manager Clay Galarneau and his dedicated staff.

From a marketing and production standpoint, it felt like if it could happen it did happen

in 2012. We started the year with falling prices, which meant selling our inventory of butter and powder at a loss. Then unprecedented increases in milk production overtaxed processing capacity. We had no sooner learned how to handle the excess milk when production increases turned to decreases so that our plants were underutilized.

Through it all Carl Rasch, who handles milk sales, and Jim Dodson, who handles manufactured product sales, and their staff members found places to sell our milk, butter and powder.

It’s not possible to mention everything that happened in 2012, so these highlights will have to suffice.

I can’t conclude without focusing on my favorite topic for this time of the year: local annual meeting attendance. This column gives me the opportunity to talk to members from the perspective of one dairy farmer to another, and attending your local annual meeting serves the same purpose. This is a good year to get together over an excellent meal to do a little reminiscing about the unusual weather and to share reports on the challenges of this year’s harvest.

Meanwhile, our field staff had a very busy year also. In addition to their regular duties, they had to visit members to review and update our membership rolls to insure that MMPA complies with the Capper/ Volstead Act, which provides the legal framework for a co-op to bargain for its members. We now feel confident that MMPA meets all the requirements of Capper/Volstead at this point in time.

Planning the future of our coop is vital, too, especially in these challenging times. In all honesty I have more often than not in my career as a dairy producer forgotten about what happens to my milk once the tanker leaves the yard. I think I’m not alone in that respect. Many dedicated people at MMPA and beyond help those of us on the farm achieve our goals, and it’s important for all of us to spend time being involved in what happens beyond the farm gate.

The field staff has also been signing up our members to participate in the Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) animal care program under the leadership of Dean Letter, director of member services. Dean’s goal for this year was to have 60 percent of MMPA’s milk volume participating in the program, and by year-end he and his staff will have surpassed that goal. It was time well spent by MMPA staff and member farms to assure consumers that our product is safe and nutritious and comes from animals that receive quality care.

It comes as no surprise that I sincerely want all MMPA members to attend their local meetings this year. They will be informative and fun and besides that, those of us who attend as representatives of the co-op just like to see all of you.

Until we meet, Merry Christmas and God Bless!

Michigan Milk Messenger 5

Quality Watch

By

By Dean Dean Letter Letter

MMPA Manager of Producer Testing Director of Member Services and Herd Health Programs

Calf Training School Coming in February

M

any MMPA members are enrolled in the National Dairy FARM (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management) Program.

The goals and objectives of the FARM program are to bolster consumer trust and confidence in the U.S. dairy industry and demonstrate the industry’s commitment to the highest levels of animal care and quality assurance.

This is achieved by MMPA member representatives conducting on-farm evaluations of animal care followed by a third-party verification on a statistically significant sample of the enrolled farms.

To assist our members in staying current on animal care practices, MMPA and Land O’Lakes Animal Milk Products Co. (LOL AMP) are offering calf training schools during Feb. 12-14, 2013.

The National Dairy FARM program recommends farms document all employee training for new and existing employees on an annual basis. The MMPA/LOL AMP calf training school will help fulfill this recommendation in this area of animal care. The meeting will be classroom style with enrollment limited to 25, so reserve your spot early.

The February meetings will cover the following items and will also provide input to develop or modify your standard operating procedures (SOPs) for calf care.

•

Feeding and managing colostrum or colostrum replacer

6 December 2012

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Maintaining biosecurity with the newborn calf (dipping navels, separating from the dam, etc.)

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•

Enhancing calf nutrition until weaned to stimulate rumen development

February 12 at Brentwood (in Caro, Michigan)

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Practicing proper water management to maintain proper hydration

February 13 at the Clinton County RESA (in St. Johns, Michigan)

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February 14 at the Holiday Inn (in Big Rapids, Michigan)

•

•

Discussing and reviewing vaccinations for common calfhood diseases

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Maintaining animal identification and animal health records

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Meeting calf housing, bedding and space requirements

•

Providing for calves during extreme temperatures

MMPA is offering schools in three locations this year:

Please contact Marianne Gasiewski at the Novi office if you are interested in attending our calf training meetings. She can be reached at (800)572-5824 ext. 215. When calling, please provide your farm information, desired school, phone number and the number of people attending.

Producers scoring 95 percent or more on Grade A Surveys and Federal Check Rating MMPA Flint October 2012

MMPA Flint October 2012

Dale Fisk Rainbow Creek Farms Sunrise Dairy* Alfred/Doris/Duane Stuever Edward Lawler* Richard/Susan Noake David Barber* Larry Niec Farms LLC Dennis Hetzner

George Sivec Jr Roger Johnson David Barber Haubenstricker Dairy Farm LLC Krafft Farms LLC Dennis Hetzner* Steele’s Dairy Farm Le Var Farms LLC Elenbaum Dairy Bergdolt Farms LLC Petzold Dairy Farms LLC J & M Block Farms LLC * *100 percent

Michigan Milk Messenger 7

News & Views The latest dairy news

October Class III Up $2.02 The October Class III price is $21.02, up $2.02 from September and $2.99 higher than last year.

Similarly, the Class IV price is up $1.13 to $18.54 a hundredweight.

Your Nominations Needed for Outstanding Indiana Dairy Producer Each year, Indiana Dairy Producer’s (IDP) extension and dairy specialists select the Outstanding Dairy Producer and Outstanding Young Dairy Producer of the Year from nominations submitted.

Companies, veterinarians and nutritionists are encouraged to submit a nomination from their clients and from farms they are familiar with. Self nominations are acceptable, and you do not have to be a member of IDP to submit a nomination. The nominated dairy producer must reside in Indiana, but he/she does not have to be a member of IDP to be nominated.

The deadline for submission is January 15, 2013. Please take the time to fill out a nomination form at http://bit.ly/SOU5Ip and send to Dr. Mike Schutz. Details are on the nomination form.

New Dairy Promotion Grant Program Will Help Michigan Dairy Farmers Engage with Consumers The United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) is proud to announce the new Dairy Promotion Grant Program beginning in January 2013. The UDIM Dairy Promotion Grant Program will provide funding support for Michigan dairy producers, dairy farm employees and milk marketing cooperative employees interested in reaching out to consumers through promotional and educational events, activities and programs about the dairy industry.

“There is no one better than dairy producers to tell dairy’s story,” said Jim Reid, MMPA board member and UDIM board president. “The public has high trust for dairy producers. It’s important we all make it part of our job to promote our products.”

This program is designed to support traditional and original promotional and educational events, activities and programs that range in focus from enhancing awareness of the dairy industry and the health and nutritional benefits of dairy products to increasing consumer knowledge and trust of dairy production practices and building demand for dairy products.

A total of $50,000 will be available per calendar year for the UDIM Dairy Promotion Grant Program. Applications and award funding are available year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. The annual funding process requires eligible applicants to submit a completed grant application form, detailed timeline and an itemized budget in order to be considered for funding. Proposed promotional and educational events, activities and programs must be conducted in Michigan.

The UDIM Dairy Promotion Grant Program application form will be available starting January 1, 2013 online at www.udim.org. For additional information about the program, visit www.udim.org or contact Staci Garcia, at 800-241-6455 (MILK).

Upcoming Events December Local meetings begin 19

MMPA Advisory Committee meeting – Novi

January Local meetings continue 30 8 December 2012

MMPA Resolutions Committee meeting –Novi

Michigan Dairy Producers Approve Referendum Continuation Michigan’s dairy producers have approved a referendum to continue the Michigan Dairy Market Program for Grade “A” Milk.

“As a strong partner in promoting the health, benefits and quality of Michigan milk and dairy products, another five years of UDIM’s nationally-acclaimed efforts can only result in positive strides for our industry. Michigan dairy farmers’ support of the referendum affirms that UDIM’s programs are effective and a good investment for the future of dairy,” Ken Nobis, MMPA president, applauds.

Established in January 1983, the Michigan Dairy Market Program was developed to promote the sale of milk and milk products produced within the State of Michigan and to increase consumer knowledge and acceptance of milk and milk products in general.

The program will continue for an additional five years beginning January 1, 2013. The current state program assessment is $.10 per hundredweight of Michigan Grade “A” Milk.

A total of 603 ballots were cast in the referendum. Of those, 549 producers voted yes (91 percent), representing 2,775,896,230.55 pounds (89 percent of the production volume represented) and 54 producers voted no (9 percent) representing 349,501,836.83 pounds (11 percent of the production volume represented).

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Produce and feed more high quality corn silage to maximize forage intake and reduce ration costs.

Rely on your local dairy specialist, agronomic and nutritional experts, and your Pioneer sales professional to get the right product on the right acre.

For additional information, go to www.pioneer.com/cornsilage

For renewal of the program and its activities, more than 50 percent of the voting producers, representing more than 50 percent of the pounds sold by those voting, must have approved the referendum The DuPont Oval Logo is a registered trademark of DuPont. ® TM SM , , Trademarks and service marks of Pioneer.

All purchases are subject to the terms of labeling and purchase documents. © 2012 PHII. CRNSL025897P360MVA

CRNSL025897_P360M_VA.indd 1

Michigan Milk Messenger 9 9/28/12 3:16 PM

Legislative Watch Issues important to today’s dairy farmers

MMPAC Endorsements 90 Percent Election Rate

T

he political commercials and phone calls are finally over and, when the dust settled, 90 percent of the Michigan Milk Political Action Committee’s (MMPAC) 2012 endorsements were elected to their respective offices. “Eighty-six of the 95 candidates we endorsed were elected. That’s a pretty good average in my book and I’m confident this election cycle yielded a receptive political environment as we look to promote dairy over the next legislative term. But, our work is just beginning,” MMPAC Chairman Ken Nobis says.

With 26 brand-new faces in the Michigan House of Representatives­—nearly a quarter of the chamber’s

membership—a new wave of dairy education and relationship building begins. Ken confirms, “There are plenty of challenges facing dairy on the state and national level. MMPAC is helping the voice of MMPA members to be heard in Lansing and Washington, D.C.”

Thanks to members’ contributions, MMPAC was able to provide financial support to 27 candidates for the 2012 General Election. Along with 100 percent participation from the MMPA Board of Directors and management staff, most contributions were hand-delivered to each candidate by MMPA members.

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Michigan Milk Messenger 11

Doing It On Her Own Rosemary Rice ~ District 8

By Alex Schnabelrauch

S

he was putting IVs in calves at 11, breeding cows at 13, preg checking by 14 and applying for loans at the local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office at 19. Today, at just 24 years-of-age, many longtime dairymen consider Rosemary Rice “a newcomer.” But with over a decade of hands-on dairy experience and a burning passion bright enough to illuminate all of Huron County, this independent young dairy cooperator refuses to take no for an answer.

“Growing up, my dad didn’t encourage us to stay in dairy. In fact, one of his requirements before taking over the farm was we had to attend college, to get out and try new things.

We kind of snuck our way back into dairy,” Rosemary slyly admits.

12 December 2012

But, her journey to 50 percent owner of Rose Valley Dairy was anything but lucky happenstance.

Fierce drive, unquenchable desire and mature initiative characterize Rosemary’s story. And it all started with a birthday gift.

The Gift that Changed Everything

Growing up, Rosemary was no stranger to livestock. Not only did she live on her family’s dairy and crop farm, Rosemary and her eight siblings took feeder steers to the county fair. Even as a youngster, her passion for dairy was evident. “Out of all of us, Rosemary was always the most passionate about cows even from the time she was yay-big,” her

older sister Antoinette affirms.

When Rosemary’s brother, Valentine (Val), gifted her a birthday heifer in 1999 things started snowballing. “My dad sold 65 of our 70 head milking herd in 2000, but then decided to go back into business with a purchase of 12 registered Holstein heifers. In 2005 and 2006 I had won heifers through Michigan Dairy Days and in 2007, I had saved my money and dad finally agreed that I could buy A Jersey calf… I came home with three,” she sheepishly grins.

By 2008, Rosemary accumulated four Jerseys, two Brown Swiss and 14 Holstein heifer calves from her uncle. Shortly after, Rosemary’s oldest brother, Val, started buying

heifers from their parents, and the two sibling partners rented barn space at their uncle’s farm to raise their young herd.

All this independent investment and hard work got the siblings thinking and casually discussing the farm’s succession plan.

Taking Over the Family Business

“We started talking about taking over the family farm in 2008, but it wasn’t anything serious. We talked to custom service providers in our area about what it takes to start a business. And by May 2009, we managed to take over the dairy portion of our parents farming operation,” she recollects.

Still reluctant to give their blessing on Rosemary and Val’s decision to dairy, Rosemary’s parents drafted a buy/sell contract for feed and cattle. The siblings would take over management for two years before committing to actually purchase the farm. “It was 2009, a break-year, and no one wanted to farm anymore. So mom and dad let us take over, giving us the chance to sink or swim,” Rosemary explains.

She elaborates, “Our parents Pictured above: Top: Valentine and Rosemary Rice are 50-50 owners of Rose Valley didn’t have to put much effort into Dairy in Filion. Bottom left: District eight OYDC Rosemary Rice is the farm’s primary the transition. They set the price record keeper and accountant. Bottom right: After milking the early morning shift, and I took care of the rest. Their Rosemary is in charge of calf chores before finally going to bed around 8 a.m. intention was to allow us to do it all on our own, not to handicap us, so we were able to grasp the full

Finally, in April of 2011, two operating their own 80 acres of alfalfa breadth of responsibilities and details years after taking over the farm’s and corn, the siblings work with their it took to manage the farm.” management, Rosemary and Val parents and neighbors to harvest and

They downsized from the farm’s original eight employees to just four – Rosemary, Val , their sister Antoinette and brother Ted. In addition to running the 110-cow herd on their own, Rosemary was a fulltime animal science student at Michigan State University. But despite the commute to Lansing, lack of sleep and tough economic climate, the Rice siblings cut costs, grew the herd and changed management practices to stay afloat.

refinanced their loan with the FSA and bought their parent’s facilities – taking 50-50 ownership.

Rose Valley Dairy Today

Since taking ownership, Rose Valley Dairy has seen its fair share of updates. They currently milk 180 Holstein, Brown Swiss and Jersey cows in their 30-year-old double four herringbone parlor. In addition to

buy crops off another 320 acres.

Managing the day-to-day operation of the dairy and crops business with just the two owners, a fulltime sibling employee (Antoinette) and part-time high school worker, sleep is a rare occurrence. Rosemary milks morning shift on her own from 1:30 to 7 a.m. every morning, then finishes her first daily shift with feeding calves until 8 a.m. After her power nap, Rosemary’s second daily

Continued on page 14 Michigan Milk Messenger 13

Continued from page 13 shift starts around noon and carries through until 9 or 10 p.m. Paper work, house work, errands, herd work, feeding calves and any other job in between keeps her hands more than full.

Knowing each cow by name while also managing the farm’s finances, Rosemary doesn’t bat an eye about missing a shift of sleep to care for sick calves. She explains, “As owner, I’d rather see myself work these types of demanding shifts than my employees. It’s my responsibility to take the hardest shift.”

As if keeping the farm going wasn’t enough, the Rices have remodeled their commodities room, put up a lean/outside feed alley and installed automatic calf waters and free stalls. When asked about the hardest part of taking over, Rosemary quickly responds, “I not only had to take over being the manager, business owner and employee, I had to take over being mom. Since this is our ‘home place,’ I have to juggle getting groceries, doing laundry, cooking and cleaning the house while working on the farm.”

bills and we’re doing it on our own.

There are goals and it’s difficult to meet them each month. But the more experiences you have that are difficult, the more you learn and the more quickly you understand this industry.”

miLK test

Pregnancy

delivering more through dHi.

In the midst of planning an August 2013 wedding, Rosemary’s life doesn’t look to be slowing down anytime soon. Her fiancé is currently in the process of taking over his family’s cash crop, beef and replacement heifer business. After getting married, the couple will continue to operate their separate enterprises and Rosemary will add a 20 minute commute to her “to do” list.

While outsiders might not understand how long hours, high stress and minuscule profits add up to someone’s preferred career, Rosemary optimistically retorts, “With nine of us siblings, our parents pushed us to independence at a young age and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. We’re paying the

14 December 2012

Pregnancy confirmation made easy

The new Milk Pregnancy Test provides convenient pregnancy confirmation using DHI samples from 35-days post calving through dry-off. This noninvasive test provides results comparable to traditional methods, without the additional time and labor to sort, restrain and sample animals.

Learn more at northstarcooperative.com.

1.800.631.3510 northstarcooperative.com

Good Food-Safe Food:

Producing Antibiotic-free Milk & Meat

Practical steps for dairy producers to avoid antibiotic residues through improved antibiotic use • What is the controversy about antibiotic residues?

• What can we do to reduce the potential for antibiotic residues?

This 2.5 hour program will help dairy producers and dairy farm employees understand the changes in testing, the issues involved and how to avoid the possibility that meat or milk from your herd will be cited for antibiotic residues.

Program:

• Consumer awareness on antibiotics in food MSUE Dairy Educators • Antibiotic residues in meat Dr. Jeannine Schweihofer, MSUE • How to avoid antibiotic residues Dr. Ron Erskine, MSU CVM and MSUE • The role of standard protocols in reducing problems A local veterinarian • Communication with employees to reduce risk Phil Durst, MSUE

Registration: $20 per person

Dates, Locations and Times Dec. 4 Dec. 4 Dec. 11 Dec. 12 Dec. 12 Dec. 13 Jan. 9 Jan. 9 Jan. 10 Jan. 15 Jan. 16

Jan. 16 Mail check, cash at the door, or credit card on-line at: http://events.anr.msu.edu/AvoidingResiduesMilkandMeat/ Jan. 17 Contact Phil Durst at 989-387-5346 for more information

9:30 am – 12:00 pm Bad Axe - Franklin Inn 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm Sandusky - Sanilac Co. MSU Extension 1:00 – 3:30 pm St. Johns - RESA Center 9:30 am – 12:00 pm Lake City - Baker College Center for Transportation & Technology 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm Lakeview - Tamarack District Library 9:30 am – 12:00 pm Coopersville - Polkton Township Hall 9:30 am – 12:00 pm Coldwater - Courthouse Annex 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm Manchester - Sharon United Methodist Church 10:00 am – 12:30 pm Hickory Corners - KBS 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm West Branch - Ogemaw Co. MSU Extension 10:00 am – 12:30 pm (EST) Bark River - Island Resort & Casino 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm Engadine - United Methodist Church 10:00 am – 12:30 pm Alpena - Alpena Community College

MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Session attending:

Registration for Good Food-Safe Food

Name(s):_____________________________________ Phone: _______________ Address:_______________________________City/State/Zip_________________ Email: ___________________________ Number attending:____ x $20 = $____ Register online at: http://events.anr.msu.edu/AvoidingResiduesMilkandMeat/ Or send check payable to MSU to: ANR Communications Event Services Michigan State University, Agriculture Hall 446 W. Circle Dr., Room 312 East Lansing, MI 48824-1039

____ Dec. 4 ____ Dec. 4 ____ Dec. 11 ____ Dec. 12 ____ Dec. 12 ____ Dec. 13 ____ Jan. 9 ____ Jan. 9 ____ Jan. 10 ____ Jan. 15 ____ Jan. 16 ____ Jan. 16 ____ Jan. 17

Bad Axe Sandusky St. Johns Lake City Lakeview Coopersville Coldwater Manchester Hickory Corners West Branch Bark River Engadine Alpena

Michigan Milk Messenger 15

Bloggers Get Up-Close and Personal with Dairy First Pure Michigan Agriculture Bus Tour a Success

W

hen most of us think of people that influence public opinion, mainstream media personalities come to mind – Katie Couric, Anderson Cooper and Bill O’Reilly.

But the typical dairy consumer isn’t famous, doesn’t have a personal hairstylist and has no idea how to use a teleprompter. These consumers are looking for a new type of news catered specifically to them and what they care about. They want news that’s local, real and from someone like them – hence the prevalence and popularity of bloggers.

Bloggers tend to field issues in conversational, real, down-to-earth ways that help readers connect to their messaging. They record dayto-day wit, wisdom and inspiration on websites (online journals) called blogs. Instead of having to pay for a subscription, blog subscribers receive e-mail or text message updates when their favorite blogs are updated… for free!

The Michigan Ag Council (MAC) capitalized on this new, personalized media outlet by hosting its first blogger tour October 18 in southeast Michigan with the goal of giving some Michigan “mommy bloggers” the chance to experience the dairy industry firsthand.

Seven bloggers as well as 11 MAC and industry representatives loaded the bus at 9 a.m. and set off for the farm of Earl and Diane Horning in Manchester. No stranger to farm tours, Earl led the group with the help of his daughter-in-law, Lynda. They explained the milking and storage process in detail, giving the bloggers a chance to feel the pulse of the milker, literally, first-finger.

From calf care to rations, bedding to buildings, the Hornings led the bloggers through every facet of their operation, answering questions about organic milk, hormones and antibiotics along the way.

16 December 2012

Pictured Above: MMPA member Earl Horning shows the bloggers how the milking attachment works. Below: Blogger Lisa Necora participates in a milk taste-test at the Kroger store.

Lauren, a blogger and Pure Michigan Agriculture tour attendee, commented in her blog, Mrs. Weber’s Neighborhood, “Farmer Earl taught our group about his milking life, stressing the importance of animal care. These cows are well-loved, friends. And for a good reason — these little cuties are the family’s income.

Why would they mistreat them?

Putting a face to a local family making the milk I drink sure put things into perspective for me personally.”

Taking notes as the Hornings debunked some of the common dairy misconceptions, she goes on to say, “The testing that milk goes through is intense. It made me feel relieved — the milk we are drinking is safe, antibiotic-free, ya’ll.”

After the farm tour, the group boarded the bus and set off for the next step in the food chain – a milk

processing plant. Thanks to generous support from Kroger, the tour group was given a behind-the-scenes look at the Michigan Dairy – Kroger’s milk processing and bottling plant.

Bloggers followed milk from the moment it was off loaded from the trucks to testing, pasteurization, homogenization, bottling and even churning to make other dairy

the United Soybean Board through the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee (a member of MAC).

Pictured above: Visiting Michigan Dairy was a unique opportunity for the bloggers and opened their eyes to the strict quality and testing procedures followed at the dairy. Pictured right: Dale Hollandsworth with Kroger explains how Kroger embraces Pure Michigan labeling to help consumers find Michigan products. products. Regina, another blogger, testified in her blog, The Crazy Nuts Mom, “After seeing all the testing and quality control that goes on with milk processed by Kroger, I am confident we are getting delicious, quality milk, while supporting our local farmers.”

Regina and some of the other bloggers were especially surprised at milk freshness. She explains, “A fact I found super interesting was the milk that comes on the truck in the morning, could be processed and sent out to the Kroger stores that same day, next day at the latest. Talk about farm fresh! I was very impressed and the employees in quality [assurance] are very proud of the product that they produce.”

The final stop on the day’s tour was a trip to Kroger for a milk tasting and Pure Michigan Agriculture lunch hosted in the dairy section. While shoppers perused for dinner ingredients, the bloggers enjoyed a Michigan-made lunch complete with BetterMade chips, Kroger dip, Hudsonville Creamery ice cream and of course, Pure Michigan milk. Kroger Manager of Integrated Communications, Dale Hollandsworth, explained the

company’s commitment to Michigan communities including its “Made in Michigan” labels and Pure Michigan Agriculture farm family signs in the dairy and produce sections.

On the surface, seven bloggers learned more about dairy and were able to connect a face to their gallon of milk, tub of sour cream and slice of cheese. Thinking bigger picture, with more than 9,500 combined followers, the bus tour was a chance to spread the real story behind dairy to thousands of consumers in a comfortable, high-trust environment.

MMPA member, dairy blogger and MAC bus tour participant Carla Wardin highlights the value of the event, “I think it’s great that MMPA and MAC are supporting tours like these, because the average person has no contact with farmers. Many have never been to a farm, met a farmer or seen how milk goes from the farm to the store. These bloggers not only learned about it personally, but they then shared that positive experience with all their readers. I hope this program is replicated for years to come.”

The MAC bus tour was funded with a special project grant from

Two other MAC partners, MMPA and Kroger, assisted in arranging the farm tour and handling the plant and store tour logistics.

Becky Cunningham, MAC program coordinator, reiterates that the dairy bus tour is just the beginning of new media opportunities to publicize agriculture.

“As a coalition working to build consumer confidence in agriculture, we will continue to share the ag message where most consumers are: online. Doing so requires similar tours and events to create a firsthand experience that gets people talking.”

True, the chances of getting Katie Couric and Bill O’Reilly on a Michigan dairy farm are slim.

But, engaging local, passionate bloggers in a two-way discussion about dairy products can pay equally large dividends. With a large virtual footprint, seven bloggers reached hundreds and possibly thousands of dairy consumers all with a click of a mouse.

MAC is made up of diverse commodity groups and ag businesses working together to build awareness among Michigan consumers about today’s food and agriculture. Their efforts revolve around educating Michigan consumers about their food and connecting them with the hard working men and women who grow, process, manufacture and sell it.

Michigan Milk Messenger 17

MMPA Leaders Gather to Prepare for Local Meetings 2012 Leaders’ Conference

M

ore than 100 local officers, OYDCs and dairy communicators met for the MMPA annual Leaders’ Conference at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing on November 19. Armed with paper, pens and plenty of questions, MMPA leaders spent the day discussing the co-op’s current outlook, industry hot topics and future issues of importance in preparation for the upcoming local meeting season.

“It’s not easy to leave your farm and travel all the way to Lansing for a day of meetings. But, we’re not just dairy farmers. We’re members of a co-op. It’s our responsibility to stay up-to-date on what our co-op is doing and how they are representing us.

That’s why Leaders’ Conference is so important,” Barry Eaton/Lansing Local Dairy Communicator Heather Wing attests.

The conference kicked-off with a welcome – complete with a few postelection jokes – from MMPA Vice President and conference chair Bob Kran. Bob introduced the morning’s first speaker, the Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Jamie Clover Adams.

Covering a breadth of recent successes and future goals, Director Clover Adams gave attendees some insight into MDARD’s dairy and agriculture industry priorities. “By 2015, we aim to increase MAEAP verifications from 1,000 to 5,000 and double our ag exports. These initiatives go hand-in-hand. We have room to export more dairy, but we can’t grow unless we show people our food is safe and produced in an environmentally-conscious way,” she relays.

In addition to outlining plans for the future, the director also covered some tangible steps MDARD is taking to make these goals a reality.

The department has reaffirmed its relationship with the Michigan 18 December 2012

Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), sharing funding for an MEDC-based agriculture specialist.

She shared that 12 new local conservation district technicians will join the MDARD ranks to assist in MAEAP verifications and on-farm consultations in 2013. She implores MMPA members, “We have a big goal to expand MAEAP. But we need your help to accomplish it! Contact one of our district technicians.

There’s no downside to starting the conversation.”

She also confirmed MDARD will resume milk safety inspection responsibilities for all Michigan dairy farms by March 1, 2013.

A presentation from MMPA General Manager Clay Galarneau followed, expanding on the coop’s current economic situation.

He explains to members, “We’ve marketed 200 million more pounds of milk in 2012 than in 2011. Our cooperative SCC is one of the best in the nation with a 176,000 annual average.”

Clay highlighted national and state production and cow number changes as well as export volumes of butter, nonfat dry milk and whole milk powder. He also announced that

MMPA is currently the front runner in the U.S. race to complete the nation’s first milk powder packaging gas flush system. “This technology would allow us to extend the shelf life of our whole milk powder from six months to 18. It could give us a major leg-up on the competition,” he comments.

A brief recap of the 2012 Breakfast on the Farm season coupled with pictures from the ongoing addition project to Ovid’s waste water treatment facility rounded out Clay’s presentation.

He finished describing MMPA’s partnership with two consulting organizations to analyze the need for further dairy processing expansion efforts.

Then MMPA President Ken Nobis took over the program, giving an update on the industry’s legislative and promotional efforts. From the CWT program to approved the dairy referendum, UDIM promotional banner ads to the REAL seal, Ken offered background and action items moving forward. “We still don’t have a farm bill and a safety net for dairy farmers. It’s not too late! Contact your congressmen and explain the impact of the Farm Bill’s expiration,” he compels.

MMPA members get the chance to visit with other dairy farmers during the day-long event.

Pictured above: Leaders’ Conference speakers included MDARD Director Jaime Clover Adams (left), Editor/Publisher of Inside Michigan Politics Bill Ballenger (center) and Partner at Vela Environmental Sara H. Harper (right).

He also announced 61 percent of MMPA’s milk supply is now enrolled in the National Dairy FARM Program with a pledge to reach 65 percent by December 31, 2012. Wrapping up his portion of the program, Ken announced the 2012 MMPAC Challenge winner… the Battle Creek-Homer Local! Up to $1,000 will be donated to the local’s choice of one of five charity organizations or youth foundations.

The conference continued with a luncheon chaired by 2012 OYDC Kris and Carla Wardin.

MMPA scholarship recipients were introduced, a report was given by 2012 Senior Dairy Ambassador Britney Zondlak, four complimentary registrations to the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference were awarded and Editor/Publisher of Inside Michigan Politics Bill Ballenger offered remarks on life after the election. “Honestly, after the election the overall makeup of Congress stayed the same and the overall makeup of the state legislature remained the same. So after spending $150 million on defeated ballot proposals, we’re basically in the same spot we were before the election,” Ballenger summarizes.

Attendees moved back to the auditorium after lunch for the final presentation of the day, “Sustainability as a Business

Strategy.” Sara H. Harper, a partner with Vela Environmental in Washington, D.C., tells MMPA leaders, “Sustainability really started with Wal-Mart. They had a desire to embed sustainability in the supply chain without costing consumers money. Every other sector – manufacturing, transportation, packaging – can be boiled down to energy and water usage. But the big question mark is the material input.

The farm level is the missing link in product lifecycle evaluation for food products.”

While many think sustainability means making drastic, businesslimiting changes, Sara commended the agricultural industry. “Agriculture realized a long time ago that efficiency carries with it significant environmental and social benefits. So really, we’re already sustainable. It’s just a matter of articulating that to our corporate customers.”

Sara wrapped-up the day confirming a demand for farmspecific traceability is coming. She elaborates, “This push is coming from corporations, not the legislature.

In the legislature, it’s harder to make bad policy because there’s minority protection. And that’s what you are as agriculture – the minority. So we must define ourselves in terms of traceability and sustainability, or someone else will.”

All in all, the day was packed with information, graphs and facts.

Attendees left equipped not only for local meeting season, but encouraged.

Chippewa County Local President Dave Folkersma recaps, “I attended the Leaders’ Conference to meet with the directors and get an update on the milk prices, political happenings and learn how the industry is doing.

I also enjoyed hearing about the OYDCs and scholarship recipients.

It’s encouraging to see how enthusiastic and passionate our future farmers are.”

MMPAC Challenge Winners For the fourth year-running, congratulations to the Battle Creek-Homer Local for winning the 2012 “MMPA Challenge!”

The Battle Creek-Homer Local had the highest percentage of members contribute to the Michigan Milk Political Action Committee during the recent fundraising campaign. They will receive a matching gift of up to $1,000 to the local’s choice of one of five charity organizations or youth foundations. Thank you to all members who have contributed to the MMPAC!

Michigan Milk Messenger 19

Living a Dairy Paradox Margie Weiss ~ District 10

By Alex Schnabelrauch

T

he world is filled with oxymorons – two very different things that don’t seem to go together. Like jumbo shrimp, plastic glasses and, my personal favorite, tax returns.

District 10 OYDC Margie Weiss’s family farm – nestled in quaint, historic, “Little Bavaria” Frankenmuth – is creating its own pleasant paradox of honoring hundreds of years of history while embracing the most contemporary innovation.

Pulling off quiet Weiss Road onto the farm’s driveway, it almost seems like you’re stepping back in time. Sure, new siding covers the 120 year-old hip roof barn (the largest of its kind in mid-Michigan) and the houses have seen some updates. But the 159 year-old farmstead purchased

20 December 2012

in 1853 by Margie’s great, great, great grandfather Johann Weiss still holds part of the family’s original home.

Yet, six generations later, some consider Weiss Centennial Farm to be a statewide dairy innovator. And it only takes a peek into the milking parlor to see why.

Innovation is Our Middle Name

“We installed our Lely Astronaut robotic milker in 2011 (affectionately named Johann after the farm’s founder). It has changed everything!

Instead of milking with six milkers in our 33-stanchion barn, the cows milk themselves, giving me more time to focus on maximizing our production.

It gives us flexibility and more time to expand other aspects of our farm,”

Margie explains.

She’s been working on her parent’s farm full-time since the spring of 2010 after graduating from the Michigan State Dairy Management Ag Tech program and Lansing Community College with an associate’s degree in applied animal science. Margie is charged with executing daily cow care, keeping herd records, AI breeding, doing calf chores and monitoring herd heath.

Margie is employed by her father, Roger, who oversees the family business and mother, Joanmarie, who keeps track of the farm’s books. She works alongside her brother, Scott, who also helps with cropping as well as equipment upkeep and is a Lely certified technician. Margie’s younger sister, Lydia, is studying culinary arts

and plans to work farther along the food value chain.

As the primary herdsperson, Margie’s challenge is to use the wealth of data provided by the robot. “The best thing about Johann [the robot] is he gives me the numbers I need to use my MSU degree and make better management decisions.

The robot’s software focuses on individual cow management and helps me make educated herd management decisions,” she attests.

But Johann is just the beginning. Boasting National Dairy FARM Program, MAEAP and CNMP certifications, Weiss Centennial Farm prides itself on adopting modern practices.

“With just 60 milking cows and 250 acres, it might seem like we’re stuck in the past. But, really, we’re bucking the norm and proving that small farms can still survive. We just had to find our niche to make our manageable herd size profitable,” Margie proudly affirms.

Jill of All Trades

After purchasing Johann the robot, Margie’s milking schedule Pictured Above: Margie and her family are continuing the heritage of the generations was cleared for other ventures to help add value and profitability to before them on their centennial farm. (Lower left) Margie is involved in all of the day -to-day activities on the farm. (Lower right) The Weiss family are active MMPA members the family farm. She beams, “In 2009, I took a one-week course on and proud family farmers. hoof trimming from Dairyland products. From helping three local home coupled with running two side Hoofcare Institute. I bought a schools write Fuel Up to Play 60 businesses of her own, this 22-yearComfort Care upright hoof chute and old dairy cooperator still loves what grants to handing out milk at local now run a hoof trimming business on she gets up to do every day. “It’s fun! fairs and 5Ks, attending career fairs the side trimming hooves for 12-15 to promoting dairy and the family I like the cows and it’s nice to be farms a couple of times a year.” farm on Facebook and a blog (http:// your own boss with no strict, fixed frankenmuthfarm.com), education is schedule.

I really enjoy the family

As if one side business wasn’t aspect and I get to spend every day in the Weiss’ genes. enough, Margie also runs a custom working with my family towards a breeding service. These off-the-farm

“During a presentation we asked common goal.” endeavors don’t just offer additional the kids to give some examples of income, she describes, “I get to see other farms and bring their good ideas back to improve our own. It helps me see new things and think outside the box to improve our operation.”

A multitude of responsibilities at

Heart for Education As an MMPA Dairy Communicator, Margie has been working with her mother for years promoting dairy

dairy products. They answered with milk, cheese and yogurt. Then one of the parents responded, ‘Eggs!’ She thought since eggs are in the dairy case at the grocery store, they must be

Continued on page 22 Michigan Milk Messenger 21

Milker Training School — Offering hands-on training for members and their employees By: Kendra Kissane

W

hen you notice a new mastitis case show up in your herd, do you see your glass of milk being half full or half empty?

It might seem half empty because new mastitis cases are a reliable indicator of your progress towards milk quality. When you start to decrease the number of new infections in your herd, you are starting to target the root cause of the problem and not just reactively treating mastitis cases. Before long your glass of milk will be overflowing.

The potential for maximizing your milk quality and fixing the root of milk quality problems starts with a great team operating together with consistent procedures on the dairy, everyday. And we can help! Your farm will quickly realize the far-reaching benefits of consistently and reliably producing a high quality dairy product that keeps dairy consumers thirsting for more.

MMPA’s Milker Training Schools!

Ask around and see for yourself how rewarding attending a Milker Training School could be for you and your employees. In today’s dairy industry, every penny matters and we know our producers strive to obtain the highest quality not only for the economic benefits, but for improved

Continued from page 21

dairy products. These people are so far removed from the farm, and we aren’t in Chicago or New York City. We live in a rural community and still people don’t understand,” Margie passionately relays.

This experience, and many others like it, has prompted Margie and her family to open their doors for farm tours – hosting approximately 4,500 people since the robot was installed. But again, the Weiss family didn’t stop there.

They’re currently completing the second season as owners of the Frankenmuth Corn Maze. An ideal location relatively close to the downtown tourist district, this year’s 22 December 2012

product quality as well.

But you don’t have to do it alone.

The MTS Team will use hands-on demonstrations to show you just how vital a consistent and excellent milking routine is everyday on a dairy operation.

This FREE hands-on learning experience offers our members a realistic, MMPA member representatives use makeshift udders one-of-a-kind educational and milking equipment to teach proper milking prep opportunity. and mastitis management.

We want to educate you in an environment where you can best learn the simple techniques that will benefit your herd’s somatic cell count.

Hablas Español?

Venga! Come and learn in an environment that can maximize your potential! MMPA offers Spanish Milker Training Schools as well.

MMPA member representative Katie Pierson demonstrates how to properly singe udder hair.

Look for the 2013 MMPA Milker Training School dates and locations in the January Messenger.

theme was, “Milk – Always a Good Choice.” Margie and her family not only entertain, but educate corn maze visitors with 22 agricultural-literacy game stations. The maze has welcomed 4,250 visitors since it opened in September 2011.

Finding Her Niche Between “Then” and “Now” Hosting German heritage baking classes in the farm’s 100 year-old “retirement home” sharply contrasts with managing the Weiss herd using high-tech software which tracks each cow’s temperature, activity and milk

output and conductivity. Nevertheless, Margie not only enjoys, but thrives living with one foot anchored in the traditions of the past and the other reaching for the newest, most innovative practices of tomorrow.

“In the future, we might install another robot and expand our tourism side of the business. It’s so important to give people the chance to see a real working farm and help them appreciate what farmers do on a daily basis. I love sharing my family’s long history of dairy farming and writing our newest legacy one innovation at a time.”

2012 -13 MMPA Local Meetings Local

Date

Place

Location

Time

Barry-Eaton/ Lansing

Saturday, December 1

Grace Community Church

Nashville

12 noon

Kalamazoo

Tuesday, December 4

Old Country Buffet

Kalamazoo

11 a.m.

Upstate

Tuesday, December 4

Ellsworth Christian Reformed Church

Ellsworth

11 a.m.

MenomineeVacationland

Wednesday, December 5

Belgiumtown Restaurant

Stephenson

12 noon C.S.T.

Battle CreekHomer

Wednesday, December 5

Cedar Crest Banquet Center

Marshall

12 noon

Western U.P.

Thursday, December 6

Wahlstrom’s Restaurant

Harvey

11:15 a.m.

Chippewa Co.

Friday, December 7

Rudyard Christian Reformed Church Education Building

Rudyard

12 noon

Sunrise

Tuesday, December 18

K of C Hall

Standish

11:45 a.m.

Alma

Friday, January 4

Maxfield’s Restaurant

Wyman

11:30 a.m.

Mid-Michigan

Friday, January 4

Clinton County RESA

St. Johns

11:45 a.m.

Huron

Saturday, January 5

Franklin Inn

Bad Axe

11:30 a.m.

Deford/CliffordMayville

Monday, January 7

Liz’s American Diner

Caro

12 noon

Frankenmuth

Tuesday, January 8

Black Forest Restaurant

Frankenmuth

12 noon

Adrian

Tuesday, January 8

Rome Grange Hall

Adrian

12 noon

Grand Rapids

Wednesday, January 9

Golden Corral

Walker

12 noon

Flint/Livingston Charter/Owosso

Wednesday, January 9

Gigi’s Banquet Center

Corunna

12 noon

Hillman

Friday, January 11

Hillman Community Center

Hillman

11:30 a.m.

West Michigan

Friday, January 11

Zeeland Township Hall

Vriesland

11:30 a.m.

Dairyland

Friday, January 11

Exit 57

Carson City

12 noon

Constantine

Saturday, January 12

Siloam Fellowship Hall

Goshen

10:30 a.m.

St. ClairMacomb-Lapeer

Wednesday, January 16

Holly Meadows Golf Course

Capac

11:30 a.m.

Ingham Co.

Wednesday. January 16

City Limits

Mason

10:30 a.m.

Evart

Thursday, January 17

Rehoboth Reformed Church

McBain

11 a.m.

Muskegon

Thursday, January 17

Russ’ Banquet Room

Muskegon

11:30 a.m.

Clare/Mt. Pleasant

Friday, January 18

Church of Nazarene

Clare

11 a.m.

Deckerville

Saturday, January 19

Deckerville Diner

Deckerville

12 noon

Saline-Ann Arbor Tuesday, January 22

Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds

Ann Arbor

12 noon

Jackson Co. Plus

Wednesday, January 23

Gene Davis & Sons

Jackson

12 noon

Mid-Sanilac

Wednesday, January 23

Liberty Lanes

Sandusky

12 noon

HillsdaleLitchfield

Thursday, January 24

Hillsdale County Fairgrounds

Hillsdale

12 noon

Blossomland

Friday, January 25

Zeke’s Restaurant

Dowagiac

12:30 p.m.

Brown CityMarlette

Saturday, January 26

Eddie-Gs

Marlette

12 noon

Michigan Milk Messenger 23

2012-13 MMPA Adrian Local

President: Clark Emmons V. President: Jim Marvin Sec/Treas: Gary Stout Dairy Communicators: Geraldine Emmons, Joy Marvin & Maria Marvin

Alma Local

President: Doug Chapin V. President: Mike Rasmussen Sec/ Treas: Missy Prins Dairy Communicators: Cheri Chapin, Ramona Okkema & Missy Prins

Barry-Eaton Local President: Jeff Butler

V. President: Tim Slocum Sec/Treas: Sally Bivens Dairy Communicators: Sally Bivens & Heather Wing

Battle Creek-Homer Local President: Brad Crandall V. President: Steve Cary Sec/Treas: Dan Williams Dairy Communicator: Michele Klingaman

Blossomland Local

President: Jerry Koebel Jr. V. President: Tim Villwock Sec /Treas: Tim Villwock Dairy Communicator: Angie Villwock

Brown City-Marlette Local

President: Dale Phillips V. President: Dan Parr Sec/Treas: Dale Philips Dairy Communicators: Rita Phillips, Barb Radloff & Gertie Van Den Goor

24 December 2012

Chippewa County Local

Evart Local

Clare-Mt. Pleasant Local

Flint Local

President: David Folkersma V. President: David Bell Sec/Treas: Loren Hoolsema Dairy Communicators: Tammy Bell & Ann Folkersma

President: Phil Newman President: Bill Stough V. President: Phil Gross V. President: Scott Kleinhardt Secretary: Tom Fox Sec /Treas: Bertha Mae Stough Treasurer: Doug Stevens Dairy Communicators: Bertha Mae Stough & Michelle Stough

Constantine Local

President: Richard Ultz V. President: Clyde S. Miller Sec/Treas: Richard Thomas Dairy Communicator: Judy Oesch

Dairyland Local

President: Del Christensen Sec /Treas: Brent Wilson

Deckerville Local

President: Michael Erdman V. President: John Szymanski Sr. Sec/Treas: Dennis Lee Dairy Communicator: Sara Lee

Deford/Clifford-Mayville Local

President: Ray Wolak V. President: Calvin Bodeis Sec/Treas: Alice Zajac Dairy Communicators: Diane Foley & Jane Wood

President: Gordon Dick V. President: William Jernstadt Sec/Treas: Larry Buning Dairy Communicators: Ken DeZeeuw & Amy Martin

V. President: Roger Bloss Sec/Treas: Dan Weil

Frankenmuth Local

President: Larry Schumacher V. President: Dennis Hetzner Sec/ Treas: Roger Weiss Dairy Communicators: Amy Bergdolt, Debra Krafft, Barb Wardin, & Joanmarie Weiss

Grand Rapids Local

President: Jim Good V. President: Ken Leseman Sec/Treas: Gary Potgeter Dairy Communicator: Kay Willcome

Hillman Local

President: Corby Werth V. President: Jeremy Werth Sec/Treas: Ron Lucas Dairy Communicators: Katie Dellar, Connie Lucas & Janel Woodward

Hillsdale-Litchfield Local

President: Scott Ferry V. President: Bruce Lewis Sec/Treas: Carlton Evans Dairy Communicators: Jennifer Lewis & Cami Marz-Evans

A Local Officers Huron Local

President: Mark Ziel V. President: Tim Kubacki Secretary: Shelly Messing Treasurer: Darwin Sneller Dairy Communicators: Debbie Kubacki, Lorelei Lutz, Shelly Messing & Barb Siemen

Ingham County Local

Menominee-Vacationland Local

President: Robert Barron V. President: Scott Mellgren Sec/Treas: Eleanore Bloniarz Dairy Communicator: Eleanore Bloniarz

Mid-Michigan Local

President: Josh Lott V. President: John Powell Sec / Treas: Lynn Powell Dairy Communicator: Evelyn Minnis

President: John Hufnagel V. President: Aaron Gasper Sec/Treas: Kris Wardin Dairy Communicators: Shirley Hazle, Patti Jandernoa, Doreen Slavik, & Carla Wardin

Jackson County Plus Local

Mid-Sanilac Local

President: Hank Choate V. Pres / Sec / Treas: Arthur Riske Dairy Communicator: Kathy Heisler

Kalamazoo Local

President: Don Bever V. President: Charles Wamhoff Sec/Treas: Francis Burr Dairy Communicators: Sharon Burr & Tammy Spicher

Lansing Local

President: Jim Droscha V. President: Daniel Ritter Sec/Treas: Kristina Langmaack Dairy Communicators: Stavey Edick & Kristina Langmaack

Livingston Charter Local

President: Scott Bontekoe V. President: Chuck White Sec /Treas: Janet White Dairy Communicator: Jodi Hill

President: James Heberling V. President: Jeremy Sharrard Sec/Treas: Mike Bender Dairy Communicators: Lisa Alexander, Jordan Noll & Jody Sharrard

Muskegon Local

President: Bill Stakenas V. President: Glen Sparks Sec/Treas: Sharron Powers Dairy Communicators: Nancy Johnson & Terri Stakenas

Owosso Local

President: Matt Dutcher V. President: David Reed Sec/Treas: David Reed Dairy Communicator: Penny Reed

Saline-Ann Arbor Local

President: Jeff Horning V. President: Stan Lambarth Sec/Treas: Keith Weidmayer Dairy Communicators: Arlene DeForest & Lynda Horning

St. Clair-Macomb-Lapeer Local

President: William Ankley President: Scott Lamb V. President: Mark Falker V. President: Robert Kaufman Sec/Treas: Virginia Ankley Sec/Treas: William Blumerich Dairy Communicators: Virginia Ankley, Robin Falker, Kristie Lamb, Melissa Small & Doris Stuever

Sunrise Local

President: Kenneth Daniels V. President: Dan Fisk Treasurer: Jeff Jakubik Dairy Communicators: Leona Daniels & Julie Schwab

Upstate Local

President: Glenn Rubingh V. President: Marv Rubingh Sec / Treas: Gail Rubingh Dairy Communicators: Gail Rubingh & Sylvia Verville

West Michigan Local

President: Paul Elzinga V. President: Norm Ter Haar Secretary: Bill Gruppen Treasurer: David Pyle Dairy Communicators: Jenny Elzinga & Arlene Ter Haar

Western U.P. Local

President: Gary Palosaari V. President: Steve Cotey Sec/Treas: Benny Herioux Dairy Communicators: Barbara Cotey, Audrey Herioux, Gerald Miron & Karen Palosaari

Michigan Milk Messenger 25

“My beef checkoff can encourage healthy eating with lean beef.”

n a m p a h c S Bret A new study called BOLD – Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet – shows that adding lean beef to the most recommended heart-healthy diet can lower heart disease risk by reducing levels of total and LDL cholesterol.

“That’s why the Michigan Beef Industry Commission put the ‘BE BOLD With Lean Beef ’ ad in medical publications like Triad and Michigan Medicine,” says Bret Schapman, cattle feeder from Almont and director of the MBIC. “The checkoff puts the BOLD research into the hands of health professionals who can use it to showcase how lean beef can maintain and even improve heart health.”

My beef checkoff… setting the record straight about beef ’s benefit in a heart-healthy diet.

Bret Schapman Almont, MI

Get to know your checkoff. Visit www.MIBEEF.org or call 26 December 2012

517-347-0911 Funded by the Beef Checkoff.

BE BOLD WITH LEAN BEEF Heard the good news about lean beef? The latest research presents a new way of thinking: lean beef can be part of a solution to one of America’s greatest health challenges—eating for a healthy heart. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that participants in the BOLD (Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet) study experienced a 10% decrease in LDL cholesterol from baseline when they ate lean beef daily as part of a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle containing less than 7% of calories from saturated fat.*1

Setting the Record Straight This ground-breaking clinical study substituted lean beef for white meat as part of an overall heart-healthy diet and found the improvements in LDL cholesterol seen on the beef-containing diets were just as effective as DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension).

MANY LEAN CUTS Lean beef is easily served with vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy—improving taste, satisfaction and providing essential nutrients. And many of the most popular cuts of beef—like Top Sirloin steak, Tenderloin and 95% lean Ground Beef— meet the government guidelines for lean.

TEN ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS Packed with high-quality protein, lean beef provides a satisfying, nutrient-rich experience.

A 3-ounce serving of lean beef contains 150 calories on average and is a good or excellent source of ten essential nutrients, including iron, zinc and B-vitamins.2

Scan to view the BOLD fact sheet

PART OF A HEART-HEALTHY PLAN PATIENTS WILL LOVE Lean beef can be a deliciously welcome and satisfying choice in a heart-healthy diet. Help your patients increase meal flexibility by including lean beef among other heart-healthy choices on their shopping lists.

Learn more about the many nutritional and heart health benefits of lean beef at:

®

Funded by The Beef Checkoff

* Subjects that consumed the BOLD diet experienced a 10.1% decrease in LDL cholesterol compared to baseline. In comparison to the Healthy American Diet, subjects experienced a 4.7% decrease in LDL cholesterol on the BOLD diet.

1 Roussell MA, Hill AM, Gaugler TL, West SG, Vanden Heuvel JP, Alaupovic P, Gillies PJ, and Kris-Etherton PM. Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet study: effects on lipids, lipoproteins, and apolipoproteins. Am J Clin Nutr 2012; 95(1):9-16.

2 USDA, ARS. 2011. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 24. Nutrient Data Laboratory Home Page, http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp/search/

®

The Michigan Beef Industry Commission www.mibeef.org Michigan Milk Messenger 27

NMPF/NDB/UDIA Joint Annual Meeting Snapshot Recap From a candid conversation with National Milk Producers Federation staff during a town hall meeting to an inspirational message from college basketball analyst Dick Vitale, a panel discussion on the dairy checkoff program to an update on strategic dairy marketing partnerships with CEOs from Dominos and Quaker, it’s hard to sum up a year’s worth of updates and recaps on a couple of pages. So instead of putting the conference into our own words, we’ll let the presenters speak for themselves.

Experience the Joint Annual Meeting with this quote recap of the NMPF/National Dairy Board/United Dairy Industry Association Joint Annual Meeting hosted in Lake Buena Vista, Florida on October 28-31.

“If you’re calling your members of Congress, the four-letter words you probably want to use are not Farm Bill. But we have to. They respond not only to our stories and struggles, but to volume.”

– Ryan Bennett, NMPF Director of Government

Relations “Exports are a key factor for the growth of the U.S. dairy industry. We’ve budgeted $35 million for export assistance, and through September, that investment has helped move the equivalent of 2.16 billion pounds of milk overseas.

And CWT has added $.43 to the all-milk price.”

– Jim Tillison, CEO of CWT “Thank you for your efforts to pass the Farm Bill. We’ve been on a journey since the dark days of 2009 to provide a better safety net for dairy farmers. We are nearing the end of our journey, but couldn’t have done it without our co-ops and our members.”

– Randy Mooney,

NMPF Chair

“NMPF is now licensed to manage the REAL Seal. It’s consistent with our initiatives to protect the integrity of dairy products. Our goals include revamping the website to focus on consumers and to expand the seal’s uses by adding descriptors.”

– Tom Balmer, NMPF Executive Vice President “Fifty percent of all farms employ immigrant labor and 67 percent of U.S. milk comes from farms that employ immigrants. But immigration is tough to talk about; it’s politically toxic. So reform must be a grassroots effort. We’ll have to unite with business and exert a concerted political will to change the conversation from ideology to economics.”

– Jaime Castaneda, NMPF Senior Vice President of Strategic

Initiatives and Trade Policy “We’ve reduced the percentage of bulk milk tanks testing positive for antibiotic residues from .1 percent in 1995 to .021 percent in 2011. Antibiotic tissue residues were also reduced by 55 percent from 2007-2011.”

– Beth Briczinski, NMPF Director of Dairy Foods and Nutrition

“And the best way to deal with that future is being proactive, always doing the right things, and most importantly, taking care of our own.”

– Jerry Kozak, NMPF

President and CEO

28 December 2012

“We live in a world where it’s survival of the fittest. Be willing to change or be willing to perish. Every successful business needs a dreamer – who creatively comes up with innovative ideas – and a doer – the person who makes the dream a reality. One without the other creates imbalance and failure.”

– Doug Lipp, President of G. Douglas Lipp & Associates “Partners make each other better. Our check-off can’t do it alone. We need the added muscle of the industry to advance our goals and priorities.”

– Paul Rovey, Dairy Management Inc.

“The Farm Bill is on top of our list of priorities, but there are many issues that affect dairy farmers from across the country. The National FARM Program shows the food value chain how dairy is produced. We need more farms, more co-ops and more companies to commit to this program.”

– Randy Mooney, NMPF Chair “We’re going into election night not knowing who will be President. It reflects deep division in the country that frankly, is not healthy. But I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know.”

—Stu Rothenberg, Editor and Publisher of

Rothenberg Political Report “We were inspired by your partnership with Dominos and McDonalds and wanted to start exploring ways to add dairy to our grains. Since only 30 percent of Americans make their oatmeal with milk, we’ve launched the ‘Make it with Milk’ campaign. It’s good for everybody. It’s good for your industry. It’s good for us. It’s good for grain growers. And most importantly, it’s good for consumers.”

– Jose Luis Prado, President of Quaker

Foods and Snacks “Dairy farmer checkoff is the foundation of dairy companies and our partnerships. It drives demand and increases sales. We’ve used $200 million of your checkoff dollars to garner $600 million of other companies’ and countries’ money to amplify our efforts and move more dairy.”

–Tom Gallagher, CEO of Dairy Management Inc.

Pictured above: “Can fluid milk be saved?” panel discussion featuring (l-r) former president of Farmland Dairies LLC Terri Webb, Select Milk Producers CEO Mike McCloskey, Darigold, Inc. President and CEO Jim Wegner, HP Hood LLC Chairman John Kaneb and Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy® President Barbara O’Brien.

“Thank you! The partnership has been extraordinary and we have certainly moved a whole lot more dairy since our partnership began. Since our partnership began, 6.6 billion incremental pounds of milk has been sold in the pizza category. Making our product taste better meant adding more dairy. Period.”

– Patrick Doyle, President and CEO of

Dominos Pizza®

“Dairy farmers are champs. C – for courage.

H – for heart. A – for attitude. M – for mental toughness. P – for pride. I’ve learned that passion plus work ethic plus good decisions equal success in the game of life.”

– Dick Vitale, College Basketball

Analyst

MMPA Members and Employees Honored at NMPF Meeting

Several MMPA members and employees were honored at the NMPF/UDIA/NDB annual meeting. Recognitions include: MMPA president Ken Nobis was re-elected First Vice Chairman of the NMPF board of directors, MMPA OYDCs Chris and Karla Wardin were elected chair-couple of the NMPF YC Advisory Council and MMPA employees Dean Letter and Alex Schnabelrauch received awards in the NMPF Communications competition. Dean’s Quality Watch article received a third place award and Alex received a first place and best of show award for feature writing. Congratulations to these MMPA members and employees on their NMPF recognitions.

Michigan Milk Messenger 29

Securing Dairy’s Future 2012 NMPF Young Cooperators Conference

By Carla Wardin

T

his October, Kris and I attended the National Milk Producers Federation annual meeting in Orlando, Florida.

Sarah Leonard from Al-Mara Farms.

She lives outside of Washington, D.C.

Each year, the young cooperators and hosts 50-300 (YCs) get together for two days before kids a day on her the full-group meeting and participate family’s farm. They have diversified in a program that aims to educate and engage people of our generation. their business into a lot of agri-tourism

With the meeting’s goal of options, like a corn ‘Securing Dairy’s Future,’ the day maze, races and began with a panel focused on the pumpkins. She gave financial aspect of the dairy business. the consultant all MMPA OYDCs travelled to Orlando for the NMPF YC

First, Gary Matteson from Farm of her numbers Meeting. (Pictured l-r) Jeremy and Jody Sharrard; Josh Credit talked about farmers markets and we walked and Leslie Lott; and Carla and Kris Wardin. and direct-to-retail options for farms. through the analysis Knigge, who installed the first robot He was surprised that none of us together. The consultant urged her in the U.S. in 2000, discussed the in the room were selling at farmers to follow her passion on the farm, history of them on his farm. Tom markets – which is a testament to which was the education aspect. Her Oesch explained how he and his how well it works for dairy farms to dad has been milking the cows but is family came to the decision to install sell to cooperatives. Rick Hermonot, uninterested in doing it any longer. them at SwissLane Dairy Farms in a Farm Credit business consultant,

The entire exercise was designed Alto, Michigan. discussed benchmarking and how it’s to indicate that the numbers in a

The YCs had lots of questions important to set financial goals. He business are the bottom line, and and discussed everything from feed explained the process he uses with it’s imperative to know your profit rations to technical software details to clients – sitting down with them and margins, your benchmarks and your altered employee responsibilities. getting their numbers, comparing goals. If you’re new to the business those numbers to the top 20 percent and you’re in line to take over, the

The day’s final panel was pretty of farms and seeing where that farm consultants emphasized: start taking somber. Krissa Welshans, who stands in comparison. responsibility now. works with the Animal Agriculture Alliance, went through a presentation

The final panel member was

After the financials, the next detailing the players in the Humane panel discussed Society of the United States, PETA robotic milkers. and other organizations that are The YCs’ working to put an end to animal knowledge of agriculture. them ran the gamut from never

Jon Rulfs of Adirondack Farms having seen one in Peru, New York told his tragic before to currently story of being targeted by PETA. using them on He unknowingly employed a PETA their farms. devotee who staged and filmed incriminating video on his farm and Lely released it to the media. Mr. Rulfs spokesman Ben told what he did to defend himself Smink explained – such as tell his side of the story, how robots work, invite anyone to see his farm and get while Charlie Jeremy and Jody Sharrard served on the 2012 NMPF YC Advisory Committee and helped to plan and host the 2012 Conference.

30 December 2012

his veterinarian and other character witnesses involved. It was very moving and instructive, as we all saw how easily a determined individual could abuse animals on film and blame you for it.

As a finish, Bill Zucker discussed how the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance helps farmers learn how to talk about farming in ways the public finds instructive and positive.

After the day’s meetings, we had a visit from Mickey Mouse, a kid and adult costume contest, dance lessons and the best – a glow-in-the-dark volleyball game (which was a first for everyone there) and s’mores on the beach!

The next morning’s speaker was ranch owner Sarabeth BarthleSimmons. She told her story of how the estate tax crippled her family business, especially when her grandfather’s gifts were taxed after his death, when the IRS ruled that the monetary gifts he gave were

made under “contemplation of death.” She urged us all to work to get the death tax revoked and barring that, get our own affairs in order.

The purpose of the YC program is to Kris and Carla Wardin (center) were elected chair couple educate and of the NMPF YC Council. They are pictured above with build leadership the entire 2013 NMPF YC Council. in young farmers, and the actions. We’d like to thank MMPA programming for giving us the opportunity to certainly assists in that. Perhaps the attend. best part of the meeting is talking with other young farmers who are

As we finished the YC part of also excited about their businesses, the program, we were herded into the energized by current events and general meeting by a staffer ringing a eager to discuss what’s going on in cow bell. No matter your age, some their part of the country. As we all tools work perfectly. take that enthusiasm back to our respective farms, it has an impact across the nation on our attitudes and

“A full service insurance agency” We specialize in Farms and offer a full range of coverages to serve all of your insurance needs.

• Competitive – Farmowners.

• Co-op Members in good standing receive additional premium discounts on Farmowners policy.

• Group Medical – Regardless of health conditions for 2 plus groups.

• Low Cost Term Life “Debt Protection.”

616.656.7260 mfu@comcast.net

Michigan Milk Messenger 31

Merchandise Memo To order call: 1-800-572-5824 then dial 2

Disposable Gloves Available

I

f you have attended one of MMPA’s Milker Training Schools, you are probably familiar with the need to wear disposable gloves while milking. This has been shown to help lessen the chance of transferring mastitis causing organisms from an infected cow to a healthy cow. The reason for this is that gloves have a much smoother surface than bare hands and will not retain bacteria as readily. Proper udder prep requires thorough cleaning of the teats and specifically the teat end. This procedure is made easier and more effective with the use of disposable gloves. They have the added benefit of protecting hands from pre dips and other chemicals which can be harsh on the skin. The warehouse carries both latex and latex free gloves all of which are ambidextrous. Listed below are descriptions and prices of the gloves we stock at the warehouse.

Description Diamond Grip Powder free N-Dex powdered Green Gloves powdered Gloveworks Powdered Free Form Powder free

Sizes

Stock Number

Material

Member Price

XLG LG Med SM XLG LG Med SM XLG LG Med SM XLG LG Med SM XLG LG Med SM

5019 5018 5017 5016 5010 5006 5007 5008 5001 5000 4999 4998 5046 5045 5044 5043 5068 5067 5066 5065

6 mil./latex

$15.25

4 mil./nitrile

$11.50

5 mil./nitrile

$11.94

4 mil./nitrile

$12.19

5 mil.º/nitrile

$14.06

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

GREEN MEADOW FARMS

• FROM OUR TOP PRODUCTION COWS.

ELSIE, MI 48831

www.greenmeadowfarms.com

6400 HOLLISTER RD. PH: 989-862-4291

32 December 2012

Order Your MMPA Merchandise through your milk hauler or call: Supervisor:

Duane Farmer 989-681-2334 Fax: 989-681-3988 Toll Free: 877-367-6455 Orders (Novi) 800-572-5824 then dial 2

MMPA Quality Premium Program

S

omatic 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 - 400,000 00¢/cwt.

• 401,000 - 500,000 -15¢/cwt.

• 501,000 - 600,000 -30¢/cwt.

• 601,000 - 750,000 -$1.00/cwt.

• Over 750,000 -$1.50/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.

For Service, call the Ecolab Service Message Center 1-800-392-3392 or

To qualify for MMPA SCC premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month

Stan Palmer 5303 E. Swan Drive #3 Port Clinton, OH 43452 419-797-2101

To qualify for MMPA volume premiums there must be: • No abnormal freeze points during the month • An average somatic cell count of 750,000 or less.

Ben Johnson 4461 Cambridge Dr. Port Huron, MI 48060 810-824-0636

MMPA Member Testing Fees

P

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

• Scheduled Herd Tests $1

Scheduled Herd Test samples are tested for: Culture for Streptococcus agalactiae, Strep non ag, Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase negative staph, coliform and 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.

Chemical, Sanitizer & Teat Dip Contact Information

Members who choose to receive their lab test results via U.S. postal service:

$2/month Additional Tests Available: All costs are listed per individual sample.

• Mycoplasma Cultures $ 8 • Bacteriology Cultures $12

– Includes identification of bacteria and drug susceptibility.

• Bovine Viral Diarrhea

- PCR

- ELISA • Johne’s Milk Test

- PCR

- ELISA – cows - ELISA – tank

$40 $ 6 $40 $ 6 $10

• Bovine Leukosis Test

- ELISA – cows - ELISA – tank

$ 6 $10

• Milk Pregnancy ELISA

$4.50

These are service personnel only.

Order your Member Merchandise supplies through your hauler.

ECOLAB 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-328-0026

Jason Koerth 7509 Aborcrest Dr. Portage, MI 49024 269-207-3773 Pat Mitchell 7273 N. Rollin Hwy. Addison, MI 49220 517-403-0928

A & L Laboratories 24 -Hour Medical Emergency Hotline: 1-800-424-9300 Kurt Fiene 8356 C.R. 115 Kenton, OH 43326 612-889-1063 Jeff Timm NW 8665 C.R. M Shawano, WI 54166 612-840-0555

All tests must be scheduled through your MMPA Member Representative or the laboratory for proper sample submission protocol.

Michigan Milk Messenger 33

Freeliners

Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 to place your ad or email to: Muszynski@mimilk.com

Bulls Registered Holstein Bulls: We now have a nice selection of service age bulls, sired by top AI sires. Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI. 989-8624291 or see our website at www. greenmeadowfarms.com.

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.

Service age Reg. Holstein bulls, deep pedigrees, some red carriers.

Jenesis Genetics, 231-924-6163 or 231-225-8615.

Jersey / Holstein cross bulls 100% AI. 810-724-8825.

Freeliner Policy 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.

• 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 contacting their MMPA Member Representative or 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 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 the desired month of publication.

Example: to be included in the January issue, the freeliner must be at the MMPA office by December 10.

34 December 2012

Holstein bulls, most from ET flushes. Top sires and top dams.

Several to choose from and priced reasonable. Dale-Stamp Farms, Marlette. 989-737-2342.

50-month old bull half Holstein half Jersey. 517-726-1418.

Jersey/Holstein cross bulls, 100% AI. 810-724-8825.

Cows and Heifers Closed herd of 50 Holstein milking cows, averaging 90 lbs. per cow per day. These cows have a RHA of 28,500. Low SCC, with 37 years of AI breeding, select mated to top AI sires.

Records available. 989-550-3856.

Equipment Manure Equipment: 33ft McLanahan Sand Manure Separator. Two Integrity Roller Presses and 15-ft Screw Press.

Package or by the piece. Contact Hillhaven Farms at 989-762-5622 or Mike Rasmussen at 989-304-0233.

Locknow 150 stationary feed mixer with digital scale; Patz 80 foot belt feeder; Jamesway feed conveyer; automatic roller mill, PTO drive

model # 1200, with auger feed and blower discharge; NH Forage Blower. Best offer 989-330-3270 or 989-330-2885.

Dairy Equipment Double five Bou-matic milker complete with pipeline washer, Westfalia ACR SS automatic takeoffs, DARI-KOOL plate cooler and two Bou-matic vacuum pumps.

Mueller 1000 gal. bulk tank with compressor and tank washer. Mueller Freon water cooler & storage tank 80 gal., 65 MSU style free stalls. 989330-3270 or 989-330-2885, Harrison, Mich.

2750-gal. Mueller bulk tank, mid 90s age, 2-5 hp. Single phase Copeland Scroll compressors, 1 less than 3 years old, 1 less than 6 months old, $16,000. Double-4 DeLaval milking parlor. Air gates, indexing rails, controls, SST2 takeoffs, oil-less vacuum pump, no motor, 1 hp. Milk pump, 10-ft. tube cooler, $5,500 for all. 231-670-1552 or 231-861-5285 leave message.

Feed

Round bales, 900 pd. plus roto-cut grass. 989-464-7364.

Wanted

Small herd of milking cows that can be bought on milk check assignment.

616-889-0769.

Used freestalls. 616-634-2958.

Michigan Milk Messenger 35

Classifieds Call 1-800-572-5824 Call 1-800-572-5824 ext. 202 or email ext. 224 to: Muszynski@mimilk.com

Classified Ads ($20 per ad up to 6 lines)

Mail ads to: Classified Ads, Michigan Milk Messenger, PO BOX 8002, Novi, MI 48376-8002. Or email to Muszynski@mimilk.com. Ads must be received by the 10th of the month before the month of desired publication. Send check or money order for $20 for up to 6 lines with your order. MMPA neither sponsors nor endorses products or services advertised in the Messenger.

OPPERMAN GROOVING: Diamond sawed grooves, no hammering 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. 3 operators will travel Michigan and other states. No interest payment terms. Est. since 1987.

Call 1-800-365-3361. ______________________________________ CONCRETE GROOVING By TRI-StaTE Scabbling, home of the 2” wide groove. Best traction, lowest prices.

(800) 554-2288. www.tristatescabbling.com ______________________________________ Concrete Grooving/Floor Texturing: Bring existing grooves back to 100% efficiency/new construction. Blue Ribbon Hoof Trimming, LLC. 989-635-1494. ______________________________________

For sale: 5000-4000-3000-2500-2000-1500 OH Mueller late model bulk tank milk tanks, complete, will trade.

1-800-558-0112. ______________________________________ Wanted to buy: Used bulk milk tanks, 200 gallons & larger, Sunset & Mueller, 1-800-558-0112. ______________________________________ Hoof trimming: certified, experienced, w/ references. Craig Martin, 517-231-7790. ______________________________________ Large square bales clean, bright straw. Will deliver. 989-723-1886. ______________________________________ June clover seed. 989-723-1886 or 989277-1414. ______________________________________ Wanted to buy: corn silage. 989-7231886 or 989-277-1414. ______________________________________

Generators Winpower & Katolight

Stocking up to 100 KW 24 Hour Emergency Service serving Michigan for the past 30 years 800-345-1887 Midwest Power Systems

Improve bottom-line $$. Lower feed costs. Maximize production.

Ingredients from your trusted source.

Zeeland Farm Services, Inc.® MI: 866.888.7082 Fax: 616.772.7067 www.zfsinc.com

Low Fat Hominy 7% minimum protein 7% maximum fiber 4% minimum fat

Citrus Pulp

16% maximum fiber 6% minimum protein 2.1% maximum calcium 2% minimum fat

Valero Meal

PTO and Automatic Start Generators 1-800-248-8070 M-40 South Hamilton, MI 49419

36 December 2012

34% minimum protein 13% maximum crude fiber 4% minimum fat

Traditional ZFS® Menu Soybean meal, soybean hulls, cereal feed, cottonseed, distillers, gluten, canola meal, beet pulp, wet feeds, and more!

Policies 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 membership representative.

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

• If the tank tests positive (drugs present), the membership 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 nonmarketability 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 Policy on Milk Quality 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 St. Louis 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. **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 a third occurrence or more 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 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.

* The member will only be paid for two (2) voluntary dumps in a rolling 12 month period.

Michigan Milk Messenger 37

Market Report For Milk Marketed in October 2012

MARKET STATISTICS Mideast Federal Order #33 (pounds)

This Month

Year Ago

Total Class 1 Sales

575,999,263

537,707,162

+7.12

Total Class 2 Sales

287,817,111

256,212,580

+12.34

Total Class 3 Sales

206,829,893

527,842,968

-60.82

Total Class 4 Sales

144,369,141

88,963,799

1,215,015,408 1,410,726,509

Total Production Class 1 Utilization

47.4%

NATIONAL TRENDS (million pounds)

% Change

2012

2011 % Change

+62.28

Production California

3,307

3,428 -3.5

-13.87

Wisconsin

2,269

2,168

+4.7

Idaho

1,131

1,121

+0.9

New York

1,080

1,052

+2.7

Pennsylvania

869

872

-0.3

Texas

772

813

-5.0

Minnesota

746

725

+2.9

Michigan

729

710

+2.7

New Mexico

656

697

-5.9

Washington

512

523

-2.1

Ohio

440

429

+2.6

Indiana

303

298

+1.7

15,165

15,170

-0.0

156,001 152,566

+2.3

38.1%

Mideast Federal Order #33

Current Month Total Producers 6,244 Average Daily Production per Farm 6,277 Average Protein Test 3.17% Average Butterfat Test 3.78% Average Other Solids Test 5.73% Average SCC Count (MMPA) 164,000

* Total U.S. * U.S. Y-T-D

COMPONENT PRICING INFORMATION Mideast Federal Order #33 Protein Price/lb.

$3.7278

Butterfat Price/lb.

$2.1136

Other Solids Price/lb.

$0.4340

Class III Price @ 3.5%

$ 21.02

Prod. Price Diff/cwt. (Mich. Mkt.)

($1.55)

Uniform Price @ 3.5%

$ 19.47

SCC Adjustment/cwt./1000

38 December 2012

$0.00102

* For 23 states

NASS Survey Prices

Monthly Avg Cheese /lb Butter /lb Nonfat Dry Milk /lb Dry Whey /lb

2.0479 1.9168 1.4636 0.6205

MMPA Staff NOVI (Headquarters) 248-474-6672 800-572-5824 General Manager Clay Galarneau, ext. 200 Member Services Milk Sales/Dispatch Finance/Controller Dean Letter, ext. 213 Carl Rasch, ext. 244 Joseph M. Diglio, ext. 240 Laboratory Supervisor Manufactured Product Sales Credit/Insurance

Patti Huttula, ext. 219 Jim Dodson, ext. 229 Cheryl Schmandt, ext. 210 Human Resources Member Relations/Public Affairs Data Processing

Cindy Tilden, ext. 220 Sheila Burkhardt, ext. 208 Gregory Schulkey, ext. 237

Member Communications

Laura Moser ext. 296

Alex Schnabelrauch ext. 211

MANUFACTURING PLANTS

Constantine 269-435-2835 Plant Manager Dave Davis

MASTITIS MANAGEMENT Tom Herremans .................... 231-853-8008 Ravenna ............... mobile 269-967-0890 Steven Lehman ...................... 989-875-3441 Ithaca .................... mobile 989-330-1638 Christy Dinsmoore .......................................

Fairgrove .............. mobile 989-528-9102

NORTH AREA Supervisor: Gerry Volz St. Louis Office ................. 989-289-9219 Frank Brazeau ..................... 920-834-4059 Oconto, Wis. ........ mobile 906-250-0337 Ben Chapin ..................................................

Big Rapids ........... mobile 989-289-0731 Preston Cole ........................ 231-584-2587 Mancelona ........... mobile 989-289-9301 Lyndsay Earl ...............................................

Ludington ............ mobile 231-519-2455 Angelee Kirsch ............................................

Harbor Beach ...... mobile 231-414-4539 Lindsay Santure ..........................................

St. Johns ............... mobile 989-488-8159 Gerry Volz ............................ 989-848-5996 Fairview ............... mobile 989-289-9219

MMPA FIELD STAFF

Ovid 989-834-2221 Plant Manager/Plant Operations David Wittkop

SOUTH AREA Supervisor: Ed Zuchnik Coldwater Office ............... 269-967-7351 Krista Beeker ...............................................

Howe, IN .............. mobile 269-986-6792 David Brady ......................... 517-522-5965 Grass Lake ........... mobile 517-937-9061 Emily Butcher ..............................................

Middlebury, IN .... mobile 269-535-0822 Kendra Kissane............................................

Hudsonville .......... mobile 269-245-6632 Andrew Rupprecht ......................................

Clio ....................... mobile 269-986-6793 Elyse Wilcox .................................................

Eaton Rapids ....... mobile 810-701-6460 Ed Zuchnik ...................................................

Three Rivers ........ mobile 269-967-7351 Other Services:

If you are unable to reach your assigned member representative, contact any one of the representatives listed in your area.

MMPA Labs Novi: 800-572-5824 (in MI)

800-233-2405 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Mon-Fri

Gary Best .............................. 810-664-4984 Lapeer ..................... mobile 586-484-9279 Bulk Tank Calibration

Ovid: 989-834-2515 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily

Katie Pierson.................................................

Coleman ............... mobile 989-289-9686

Constantine: 800-391-7560 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Daily

Michael Marvin .................... 989-670-4864 Marlette Energy Auditor

Merchandise—St. Louis Supervisor: Duane Farmer..989-681-2334 Fax........................................989-681-3988 Toll Free...............................877-367-6455 Orders (Novi)...800-572-5824 then dial 2

Michigan Milk Messenger 39

40 2December June 20122012

Grand Champion Cheese Cowslip Creamery