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Dairy St r

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Special Edition

May 8, 2010

Wearing her dairy heart on her sleeve

Olson shows true emotions as 56th Princess Kay By Krista M. Sheehan Staff writer

HUTCHINSON, Minn. – Elizabeth Olson said the only challenge she’s encountered so far during her reign as Princess Kay has been holding back her emotions. “I wear my heart on my sleeve when I go to my events,” said the 19-year-old Hutchinson native. “After a lot of my speeches I get emotional.” But she said her tears are for the pride and enjoyment she has in representing her family and other dairy producers in Minnesota as the 56th Princess Kay of the Milky Way. Since the start of her reign at the Minnesota State Fair in August, Olson said she has been following her heart. “My mom always says ‘do what you love’ and that’s what

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Princess Kay of the Milky Way Elizabeth Olson does a cooking with dairy demonstration during the annual Home and Garden Show in Minneapolis.

I’m doing,” Olson said, holding back tears with a quiver in her voice. “Dairy farmers are the people who raised me and who brought me to where I am now. I’m doing this for them and for everyone in the industry.” Now two-thirds of the way through her reign, Olson said the months as Princess Kay have been meaningful, memorable and wonderful. “All the people at the events and appearances have made this year more than I expected it to be,” she said. Interacting and visiting with people has been what Olson has enjoyed the most in her role, whether talking with producers or consumers. “Producer appearances touch my heart,” Olson said. “To be able to tell (dairy producers) what I do for them is huge for me. It’s telling them, ‘You may not have enough time to do some of the same things I’m doing, but I’m happy to do it for you. It’s an honor.’” At the Midwest Dairy Expo in December, Olson spoke to dairy producers and dairy leaders. She’s also been to dairy princess banquets, including the one in her home county of McLeod, and the state all-breeds dairy convention. Although producer appearances are important, Olson said consumer appearances are what make a difference, especially talking with kids and moms. Olson has enjoyed visiting 10 schools with Viktor the Viking, the mascot of the Minnesota Vikings, for the program, “Eat Right, Get Moving With Viktor.” Viktor – who has visited nearly 80 schools – and Olson lead elementary school assemblies promoting healthy eating choices and be-

ing physically active by playing 60 minutes. “I cannot say enough how effective it is,” Olson said. “Kids scream, cheer and get so excited that some days I have to plug my ears.” Olson also attended Ag Awareness Day hosted by the University of Minnesota’s Agricultural Education Club. “The U of M is a very urban school. This year there have been a lot of hot buttons with consumers about how food is produced and it showed at this event,” Olson said. “People are educated, but they’re just misguided.” Olson took the opportunity to have conversations with concerned consumers and shift their assumptions. “Conveying heart, personality and values – that’s where positive promotion happens,” Olson said about the day. A new event for Princess Kay this year was attending the convention for the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians. “Being able to say my mom’s a doctor and my dad is a farmer has been very effective,” Olson said. “The awareness of the health benefits (of dairy products) has been increasing. It’s been great to tie (dairy) in with family physicians because our population is aging and more people are looking at what their food is doing for them.” Olson has also done other promotions with her mom, Laura – cooking on morning television shows, attending medical conferences and talking with senior citizens about osteoporosis at the hospital where Laura works. “But everyone in my family keeps me going and helps me out with my role,” said Ol-

Photo submitted

Elizabeth Olson (19) from Hutchinson, Minn., has been promoting the dairy industry as the 56th Princess Kay of the Milky Way since last August. Now two-thirds of the way through her reign, Olson said the experiences has been enjoyable and emotional.

son, mentioning her dad, Loren; sister and brother-in-law, Sarah and Kelly; brother and sister-in-law, Luke and Tanya; and sister, Lana; and especially her mom as mentioned above. The Princess Kay role has been an everyday experience for Olson, whether she is planning for appearances, writing speeches, going to events, or working on her blog or Facebook page. She’s also been preparing for the last four months of her reign. Although winter has been busy with 10 appearances per month and the spring has averaged about three per week, the rest of the spring and this summer will be Olson’s busy time. “I’m looking forward to May Event. It’s an adrenaline rush. I’m really looking forward to seeing all the princess-

es, catching up with my fellow Princess Kay finalists from last year and meeting the next Princess Kay finalists,” Olson said. In June, Olson is scheduled for an appearance at least every day and sometimes two in one day with still some openings for other large dairy events upon request. “It will be a jam packed month, but I’m ready and excited for it,” Olson said. “The dairy industry can never have too much promotion going on.” And in addition to wearing the crown and sash at these promotional events, Olson will continue to wear her dairy heart on her sleeve. “I love what I’m doing, and I love the people I’m working with and for. This experience has been wonderful beyond words.”

Introducing Your County Dairy Princesses For 2010...

Page 2 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 8, 2010

Becker County

Benton County

Parents: Albin and Carol Warling Town: Audubon What is your current status? I am currently living at home and helping on our dairy farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. We milk about 65 cows, twice a day, on our dairy farm in a double 7 herringbone parlor. I plan on going to MSCTC in De- Alysha Warling, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: troit Lakes in the spring for Audubon Co-op nursing. Why is it important Elevator & Feed Mill Audubon, MN to you to be a dairy prin218-439-6111 cess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to represent the dairy farmers in my county because there are so few of us and not many people know the importance of dairy. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell them that dairy farmers work very hard to make sure that their cows are happy, with plenty of food and bedding. Also, we wash the milking lines and the milking area after every milking to ensure a healthy and happy environment for the cows.

Parents: Rick and Diane Halverson Town: Foley What is your current status? I am going to high school and taking two post secondary classes at St. Cloud State, along with working at Road Side Acres, milking cows, and playing softball. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your Bethany future plans. Currently, I am working at Road Side Halverson, 18 Dairy Farm. I milk two Dairy Star Sponsor: times a week and at least Foley Lumber Do-It twice per weekend. I am Center attending South Dakota Foley, MN State at Brookings in the 320-968-6291 fall, to join the pre-vet program, majoring in animal science, and minoring in equine. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I would love to make it known to the public what goes into the dairy industry to keep it going, and how much hard work is done for one gallon of milk or one pound of butter. I would also love to educate young people that farming is becoming more scarce and how their generation can change that. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would let them know about all the inspections and testing that is done, and how we, as producers, have to keep our stock healthy, well fed, and taken care of in order to pass or to be allowed to stay farming. The product itself is very safe for the same reason. Every tank is tested before being picked up to ensure safety and quality.

Parents: Albin and Carol Warling Town: Audubon What is your current status? I am currently attending school at Lake Park-Audubon High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family milks 65 cows in a double seven herringbone milking Nicole Warling, 18 parlor Dairy Star Sponsor: Why is it important Adkins Equipment to you to be a dairy princess and represent the Detroit Lakes, MN 218-847-4587 dairy farmers in your county? This is important to me because I enjoy being a dairy farmer and I am proud of what we do. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? We work long hard hours, and still enjoy every minute. We have to take special care of the animals so we can provide a safe and healthy product for our dairy consumers.

It takes all the milk from 330,000 cows each year to fill the fluid milk needs of Wal-Mart®.

Parents: Loren and Barbara Mielke Town: Sauk Rapids What is your current status? Currently, I am a senior at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, and I am employed on my family farm, Pine Grove Dairy. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I was born and raised on my family’s Cara Mielke, 18 dairy farm in Sauk Rapids, Dairy Star Sponsor: Minn. Currently, we own Heims Milling Co. 997 acres and milk 180 St. Cloud, MN cows twice a day. My job 320-251-7033 on the farm is the care of the young calves and occasionally milking. Next fall, I will be attending Bemidji State University for a degree in psychology. Following that, I plan to attend graduate school for my masters. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It’s important for me to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in my county because they truly deserve to be recognized. There is no one on this earth that works harder than dairy farmers. I honor their passion and drive to continue doing what they do every single day. I’m pleased to say that I represent these few, but proud dairy farmers of today. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? In order to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment, as well as providing a safe and healthy product, I would encourage them to meet the people behind the product. Many farmers have had their farm passed down by generations and they want nothing more than to be able to pass the farm to their children, which means,

Benton County continued

they’ll stay true to putting their best product forward, to continue the tradition.

Parents: Brian and Bonnie Turnquist Town: Foley What is your current status? Currently, I work at Foley Nursing Home, and I am starting school in May for my CNA. Then I plan to get my LPN. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am 19 years old, and I have a twin sister, with whom I do everything Clara Turnquist, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: (or almost everything). Some of my favorite things First National Bank - Gilman are scrap booking and doGilman, MN ing hair. The family farm 320-387-2233 is small, but each year it’s growing. We have 20 cows to take care of and feed. My future plans are to get my nursing license and live on a small farm, just big enough that I can handle both nursing and farming. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important so that I can show that I’m proud to be a farmer. Also, that there is pride going out with every pound of milk we produce. I also want to educate the public that there is a lot of hard work, but also a lot of rewards of farming, and to show and tell how milk is produced. I also want other girls to see that they can be successful at not only farming, but anything they want to achieve. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say that farmers take extra good care of their animals because the better they are cared for, the more milk is produced. As far as a safe and healthy product, it has to be safe, or we couldn’t sell it. Also, many dairy farmers drink milk from their own tank and wouldn’t sell something to others that they wouldn’t consume themselves.

Brown County

Parents: John and Patty Rosenhammer Town: Sleepy Eye What is your current status? Presently, I am in my final quarter of high school, and anticipating college in the fall at the University of WI-River Falls, where I plan to major in dairy science with the intention of coming back to manage the family herd or begin my own. Laura I stay busy working on my family’s farm and partici- Rosenhammer, 18 pating in several extra curDairy Star Sponsor: ricular activities. Midwest Livestock Tell us about yourself, Systems the farm you live and/or Pine Island, MN work on, and your future 507-356-8349 plans. I consider myself a particularly outgoing person. I possess much motivation and enthusiasm for life, and especially the dairy industry. On the farm, 10 family members, including myself, contribute to managing the 150 Holstein cow operation, as well as tending 500 acres of cropland including corn, soybeans, and alfalfa. Plenty of chickens, a few ducks, several rabbits, two horses, two goats, two pigs, and one dog complete our farm’s environment. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? As a county dairy princess, I believe I offer the dairy industry an abundant amount of experience, Brown County continued on next page

Brown County continued

passion and knowledge. Dairy holds priority in my life as not only a career choice, but a way of life. For 10 years I have shown cows, worked on my family’s farm and hosted farm tours, thus learning the importance of our image to consumers. Therefore, I feel promotion is a foremost aspect of our industry and necessary to educate consumers. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Keeping the health of consumers in mind, farmers strive each day to take the utmost care of their cows and protect the land, in order to produce one of the safest, and most nutritious products available. Several key nutrients vital to your health can be found in milk. The safety of dairy products can be assured by the many tests milk products undergo before reaching store shelves, and the regulations farmers abide by to look after their animals and nurture land on which they live.

I want to raise replacement heifers and eventually have a herd of registered Holsteins. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I chose to become a dairy princess for many reasons. One of those reasons is my love for the dairy industry. The dairy industry has provided me with so many amazing opportunities. As a dairy princess, I can give back to an industry that has given me so much. Another reason that I chose to be a dairy princess was for my cows and the product they produce. I have been blessed to be able to work with such great animals, and to improve the health of the U.S. one glass of milk at a time. The final and last reason why I chose to become a dairy princess is for the dairy farmers of Brown County and especially my family. I appreciate and admire the hard work that dairy farmers do each day. I am very fortunate to be able to represent the dairy farmers of Brown County, Minnesota’s dairy industry, and my family each time I put on my crown and sash. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Having grown up and worked on a dairy farm, I know how much work and dedication it takes to properly take care of dairy cattle. As a dairy princess, I am always willing to share my on-farm experiences, and provide consumers with answers to their questions about animal welfare. I enjoy explaining to consumers that a healthy and comfortable cow is a great milk cow. Recently, my princess coordinator and I made a You Tube video at my farm, highlighting daily occurrences on the farm. I think that using You Tube or any other social media is a great way to inform consumers about what is truly behind the product.

Parents: Dan and Bonnie Seidl Town: Sleepy Eye What is your current status? I am currently a senior at St. Mary’s High School in Sleepy Eye, Minn. I participate in basketball and track. During the summer, I am a lifeguard at the Sleepy Eye Aquatic Center. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and Samantha Seidl, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: your future plans. I live AMPI - New Ulm on a farm two miles east Division of Sleepy Eye. My family New Ulm, MN milks 40 cows and farms www.ampi.com 550 acres. My job is to feed the baby calves and help with fieldwork. After high school; I plan to go into law enforcement and eventually come back to Sleepy Eye or somewhere nearby. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess is important to me because kids need to know where milk comes from, and about the importance of milk. Getting three dairy products a day is one important aspect. Growing up on the farm, I know that a lot of hard work is needed to produce this product. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? We are producers who eat our products. Chores are done twice a day, seven days a week. When having to work with the animals that long, you can become attached to them and name the favorites. The more you take care of your cows, the more beneficial they are for you. Earth-friendly products are used for sustainability for the earth.

Parents: David and MaDonna Sellner Town: Sleepy Eye What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at South Dakota State University, majoring in dairy production. I also work on my family’s dairy farm, Green Tills Dairy. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s dairy Angela Sellner, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: farm, where we milk 70 Holstein and Brown Swiss River Region Co-op of Sleepy Eye cows and operate 390 acres Sleepy Eye, MN of land. At home, I feed the 507-794-3001 calves and heifers, milk, and make mating decisions. I have been involved in 4-H, FFA, NHS, band, choir, dairy judging, and showing dairy cattle. My future plans are to work in the A.I. industry. From there,

Parents: Mike and Judy Sellner Town: Sleepy Eye What is your current status? I am currently a senior at St. Mary’s High School in Sleepy Eye. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My activities include cross country, softball, football stats, 4-H, National Honor Society, student council, dairy Kelsey Sellner, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: bowl, choir, and showing Miller Sellner of cows. I live on a 400 acre dairy farm south of Sleepy Sleepy Eye & Bingham Lake Eye, where my family and Sleepy Eye, MN I milk about 100 Holstein cows. On our farm, my Bingham Lake, MN 507-794-2131 daily chores include feeding calves, and I help with milking on weekends. After graduating from high school, I plan on attending Minnesota State University, Mankato, with a major in public relations. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess is important to me because I wish to serve as an advocate for the dairy farmers in my county. I feel that I have what it takes to accurately represent who they are and what they do. Growing up on a dairy farm, I have come to appreciate every aspect of the industry. I feel honored to have the opportunity to share with people the benefits of incorporating dairy in their lives. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers work extremely hard, day-in and day-out in order to provide consumers with fresh, great tasting, pure and wholesome dairy products. In order to do so, good health, comfortable living conditions, and nutritious diets are essential. Dairy farmers take pride in what they do and know the value of hard work. Not only do they provide their animals with the best care, they also nurture the land that sustains them. Dairy farmers understand the importance of preserving the environment for future generations and are dedicated to delivering the best. They are conscientious and passionate about what they do, ensuring that the dairy products consumers receive are of the highest quality.

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 8, 2010 • Page 3

Carver County

Parents: Chris and Sheri Anderson Town: Waconia What is your current status? I am attending Waconia High School and I am graduating in 2010. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am 18 years old and I love spending time outside and working on the farm. Working directly with the cows has Kari Anderson, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: taught me hard work and responsibility. My goal is First Minnesota Bank of Mayer to become a large animal vet. I hope to provide care Scott J. Wakefield, President for cows on dairy farms in 952-657-2500 Minnesota. Why is it important Tellers Dairy Farm to you to be a dairy prinChaska, MN cess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I think it is important to have the opportunity to teach the community more about dairy, promote the dairy industry, and also make sure consumers are getting the adequate amount of dairy products in their diet. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers take care of our cows and we treat them like family. Farmers are responsible caretakers of the land, and consumers should understand the commitment to doing the right thing in our animal care practices.

Parents: Rich and Kim Hoen Town: Cologne What is your current status? I am a 2009 graduate of Waconia High School and am attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. When I am not in school, I work as a cashier at the Bongards’ Creamery Country Store. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future Kelsey Hoen, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: plans. I live on a 90-cow Lester Prairie Vet dairy farm in Cologne. We Clinic own about 600 acres and run a total of 900. I am cur- Lester Prairie, MN 320-395-2421 rently pursuing a degree in Clinical Laboratory Science at the University of Minnesota. One day I hope to have a job examining blood samples in the lab of a hospital or clinic. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? While I am away at school, it is very hard for me to lend a hand on the farm by doing chores and milking cows with my father. I find that the dairy princess program is the best way for me to be there, helping out the farmers of Carver County while still living in the Twin Cities. By using my talents of public speaking and knowledge of the dairy industry, I feel I can really impact the people who need the most education about dairy. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a sale and healthy product? I would begin by informing the consumer of the commitment dairy farmers have to the health and wellness of the earth and the people and animals that live it. A dairy farmer’s ultimate goal is, and will always be, supplying nutritional dairy products to people all over the world. While some believe that farmers are mistreating their cows, the truth of the matter is, that farmer’s success in the industry depends very much on the health of the animal itself. In order to produce milk, that cow needs to live a healthy and stress-free life. Farmers really do treat their herd with as much respect as a family treats Carver County continued on next page

Page 4 • Dairy Star • Saturday, May 8, 2010

Carver County continued

their dogs, or any other pets for that matter. It is also very important for a farmer to treat the environment with respect. At the end of the day, we are inhabitants of this earth too. We live on the land, drink the water and our livelihood depends on the quality of our environment. We fulfill our duties to Mother Nature by recycling animal waste as fertilizer and also by turning it into renewable energy. New ways of reducing our carbon footprint are being thought of every day, so it is very apparent how important Mother Nature is to a farmer. Without a healthy environment and animals, dairy production would almost be impossible.

Parents: Ron and JoAnn Wickenhauser Town: Cologne What is your current status? I am going to school at Waconia High School. I currently work at Waconia Veterinarian Clinic. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a dairy farm in Cologne. Chelsea We milk about 50 cows. I am currently a member of Wickenhauser, 18 FFA, 4-H, and conservaDairy Star Sponsor: tion club. I also participate Waconia Veterinarian in hockey, cross country, Clinic and track. I help out on the Waconia, MN farm each and every day. 952-442-2119 Why is it important www.waconiavet.com to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I think we need dairy princesses in the county to promote the dairy industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy cows are a part of a farmer’s life. A farmer’s livelihood depends on the care that they give them.

Parents: Robert and Cheryl Rademacher Town: Cologne What is your current status? I am currently attending Central High School in Norwood Young America. I work weekends at Auburn Home in Waconia. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on Jackie my parent’s dairy farm. I worked on the farm until Rademacher, 18 I was about 15 years old. Dairy Star Sponsor: Afterwards, I got a job at Bob Fritz Trucking a local nursing home. My Cologne, MN parents worked together 952-466-2551 for about 20 years dairy Rick Haler - ABS Global farming. Then my mom Norwood, MN had to get an off-the-farm 952-466-2054 job so my dad and brother work on the farm together. I plan to go to Minnesota State University, Mankato for psychology. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I feel as though it is my job or opportunity to express and promote how dairy is really the reason I am who I am today. Also, it is an opportunity of a lifetime to promote my way of life; my father’s passion, dairy farming. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say their animals are more than animals. They are family because that is their livelihood.

Parents: Stephen and Kim Wetzel Town: Chaska What is your current status? I am attending Chaska High School. I work at Teller’s Dairy Farm, and part-time at Chaska Valley Veterinarian Clinic. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work at my neighbor’s dairy farm. Becky Wetzel, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: I milk, feed, and take care of the animals there. I am Tellers Dairy Farm Chaska, MN going to college, and will major in animal science. Later, I am going to veterinarian school to become a large animal veterinarian. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me because people need to know about the dairy industry. They also need to know that dairy is more than an aisle in a grocery store. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Farmers take very good care of their cattle. A farmer’s livelihood depends on how well they take care of their animals. The more they care for their animals, the better the product will be from the animal. Farmers also live in the environment and keep the environment in the best shape possible.

Chisago County Parents: Ann and Dale Sandberg Town: Taylors Falls What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at the University of Wisconsin- River Falls majoring in dairy science. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a family farmed 100 head dairy Holstein operation. Jennifer During the summer I do many things such as help Sandberg, 19 with crops, milk, and feed Dairy Star Sponsor: the calves. I am involved Federated Co-ops in showing dairy in 4-H Osceola, WI and FFA, and I am a part of 800-294-7661 the River Falls Dairy Club 715-294-2789 and the block and bridle club. In the future, I am hoping to graduate from college, then possibly get a job with an AI company . Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a very passionate individual about the dairy industry, I feel that being a dairy princess is very important. I think it is important because much of the public are either misinformed or don’t know what dairy farming is all about. Because the dairy industry doesn’t have the money, that for instance PETA does for advertising, it is up to us, the farmers, to make sure that we do our part in letting the public know about this industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? The good wholesome milk begins at the heart of the farm with proper care of the animals. These animals are our life so making sure that they happy and healthy is what we strive for everyday.

Clearwater County

Parents: Steven and Julie Norman Town: Leonard What is your current status? I am working full-time at Galen’s SuperValue, part-time at the Sidetrack Tap, and am a Pampered Chef consultant. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a family-owned, 50 head farm with Holstein and Stacy Norman, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: Milking Shorthorn cattle. Clearwater ADA We currently milk around Shevlin, MN 35 cows. I work a full-time 218-968-2322 job, a part-time job, and my Pampered Chef business. In the future, I plan to start a family close to home so I can spend time with my family and the farm. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I love dairy products, and I love sharing the benefits of dairy with people in my community. Dairy farmers work hard to make great products and I feel it is important for everyone to know about their dedication. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers depend on the land and their animals. Without them, they would have nothing. Quality care means healthier animals, better products, and a better business. Not only do farmers work the land, but they live and survive off of it as well as everyone else. They’re committed to a clean environment for their animals, their community, and themselves.

Cottonwood County

Parents: Dean and Elizabeth Johnson Town: Heron Lake What is your current status? I am a sophomore at South Dakota State University majoring in dairy production and agriculture education. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family owns and operates an 80cow dairy farm and farms April Johnson, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: 320 acres of land. My main responsibility is milking, Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment but I also help with carPipestone, MN ing for calves and keeping 507-825-3271 dairy records. Off the farm, I have been involved with 4-H, FFA, band, choir, Little International and the SDSU Dairy Club. I am also involved with Shalom Hill Farm’s Common Ground Program, where I work with youth groups from urban areas educating them about rural agriculture. After college, I would like to work within the dairy industry or work as a high school education instructor. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess gives me the opportunity to share my passion for the dairy industry with others and to share key dairy messages with consumers. I want to inform people about the importance of consuming dairy products and the dedication of the farmers who produce these wholesome and nutritious products. I am proud of what my family and I do each day to produce dairy products, so I want to share this information with people. I also knew through dairy promotion I could directly impact people’s health and well-being. Another reason why I chose to run for dairy princess is because I enjoy educating people Cottonwood County continued on next page

Cottonwood County continued

about agriculture and the dairy industry. Along with educating people about agriculture, I enjoy public speaking and interacting with consumers. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Every day, dairy farmers strive to deliver high-quality animal care with tremendous pride. Providing nutritious diets and comfortable living conditions along with good health care for cows are among the main practices routinely used by dairy farmers to ensure their herd’s well being. A dairy cow must be healthy and well cared for in order to produce wholesome milk. Dairy farmers live and work on their farms so they take good care of their land and natural resources. As dairy farmers, we work hard every day to protect the land, water and air for our families, neighbors, and future generations.

Parents: Gary and Linda Remmers Town: Storden What is your current status? I am a freshman at Minnesota West Community and Technical College in Worthington, Minn., majoring in accounting. I work at a restaurant in Storden, Minn., as a waitress and cook, and I also baby sit for the neighbors. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Emily Remmers, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on my Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment farm with my family. We Pipestone, MN milk 30 cows twice a day. 507-825-3271 I love all the animals on the farm from my cows, to my horse, to the cats and dog. I am in my last year of 4-H this year. I show dairy cattle and horses. In high school, I was part of our FFA dairy cattle judging team. When I finish college and find a job as an accountant, I want to live near home so I can help milk cows and have a farm of my own with my horse and some cattle. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to be a dairy princess because our county is small and there are not very many dairy farms. I want to be the person to represent not only my family and our farm, but the others in the county, too. We may be a small county with a small number of dairy farms, but we are strong within our families. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? We dairy producers care for our animals as we would like to be cared for, like eating the right foods and being well cared for when we are sick. We provide natural fertilizer by recycling our cattle’s manure and spreading it on our fields, which we grow our own crops to feed our cattle. We make sure the milk is pure by testing all the milk before processing to be sure of a healthy dairy product for consumers.

Parents: Dean and Elizabeth Johnson Town: Heron Lake What is your current status? I am a senior at Windom Area High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 75-cow dairy where my family milks Holsteins and a few crossbreds. Our Chelsey cattle are housed in two loose-bedding compost Johnson, 18 hoop barns. We milk in a Dairy Star Sponsor: double-10 milking parlor. Gorter’s Clay & Dairy I hope to continue to be Equipment connected to the dairy inPipestone, MN dustry in the future. I will 507-825-3271 be attending South Dakota State University next fall and anticipate being involved in the dairy club. I plan on double majoring in ag journalism and English education. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? My life on a dairy farm has given me so much. The lifestyle of a dairy farm family has shaped me into who I am today. Naturally, I am extremely proud of what my family does every day. Not only do dairy farmers dedicate endless amounts of time and hard work to their farms, they also provide a wholesome, nutritious and safe product to consumers. As a dairy farmer’s daughter and a passionate dairy enthusiast, I feel it is my duty to let the public know they can depend on dairy farms to provide safe, nutritious products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers live on the land they farm, so, naturally, they want to preserve the land for themselves and many generations in the future. In order to produce a quality product, dairy farmers need to take special care of their animals, so it makes sense that dairy farmers provide nothing but the best care for their animals. Dairy farmers also reuse resources such as manure to fertilize their land. All milk undergoes tests and meets special regulations before it reaches consumers, so all consumers can be sure their product is safe and nutritious. Dairy farmers take great pride in their farms and their animals, so consumers can depend on them to always provide excellent care when producing safe, nutritious, dairy products.

About 700,000 cows are needed to make all the dairy items sold through the Wal-Mart® chain.

Crow Wing County Parents: Tony and Cheryl Hettver Town: Brainerd What is your current status? I am a senior at Brainerd High School. I work at Garrison SuperValu. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 160-acre dairy farm, owned and operated by my family. We milk 62 Chelsey Hettver, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Holstein cows. After high school, I plan on going to Sunrise Ag Cooperative Buckman, MN Central Lakes College in 800-307-5346 Brainerd for generals, then moving on to get a degree in agriculture. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Many people have no idea where their food comes from, and I think it’s good to get out and spread the word that dairy farmers are good people. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? If dairy producers didn’t take care of their animals, they wouldn’t be able to produce safe, quality, wholesome dairy products. The animals are their business partners and with out them they can’t produce nutritious dairy products.

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 8, 2010 • Page 5

Dakota County

Parents: Al and Beth Bester Town: Hampton What is your current status? I am a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls majoring in agricultural education and minoring in animal science. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s Jessie Bester, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: 50-cow dairy farm. I help milk cows and take care of Werner Implement Vermillion, MN the youngstock. My future 651-437-4435 plans are to graduate with my bachelor’s degree and teach agriculture at a high school. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess and representing the dairy farmers in my county is important to me because I realize all the hard work each of them do to make the quality products everyone eats and drinks each day. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers make a living from the animals they care for. If farmers neglect their animals, they not only hurt the animals but themselves. Farmers live in the same environment the animals do, so they know how important it is to make sure they are taking care of it. Farmers produce a safe and healthy product by keeping the animals and the environment safe. Farmers provide the animals with proper nutrition and a safe environment.

Parents: Roger and Julie Janak Town: Northfield What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Northfield High School and am employed on the Mohn’s Dairy Farm, where I have been working for the past five years. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I have been involved with dairy animals Jennifer Janak, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: for several years through Udder Tech 4-H, showing dairy heifLakeville, MN ers and steers. At Mohn’s 888-438-8683 Dairy, I work twice a week 952-461-2890 feeding calves, preparing the barn and milking the cows. Next year, I plan to attend the University of Minnesota where I will major in animal science-pre veterinary. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I have been surrounded by people who are familiar with the dairy industry and those who are not. Being a dairy princess allows me to represent the local farmers in a positive manner and share with others about the work and dedication that goes into making the dairy industry successful. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Every dairy producer spends endless hours a day cleaning, bedding and feeding their animals to ensure they are getting the proper care. When all of this is accomplished, a healthy and sustainable farm is achieved. With caring for the environment and their animals, dairy farmers are able to make healthy and safe products for the consumers to enjoy. Dakota County continued on next page

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Dakota County continued

Parents: Paul and Pat Trapp Town: Hastings What is your current status? I am a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, where I am majoring in agriculture business with an emphasis on dairy science. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. On our farm, Jenny Trapp, 20 we raise our heifers and Dairy Star Sponsor: our milk cows are housed Duane Fowler, at River City Dairy. I have also been working at River River Country Co-op Hastings, MN City Dairy since the sum651-437-3527 mer before my junior year of high school. I am unsure of what career path I want to get in to, but I would really like a job where I could travel and make a lot of new connections. I also plan on going to shows and showing cattle. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I love the dairy industry and I am very honored to be representing the dairy producers in my county. I believe that dairy producers need people like the dairy princesses to promote the industry and provide a positive outlook to people who are not involved in the industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say that the dairy producers love their animals and their industry. Also, that they are very compassionate about their work and the products they produce, which helps them take the best care of their animals and the environment, while producing safe and healthy products for our nation.

Dodge County

Parents: Darren and Rachel Durst Town: West Concord What is your current status? I am finishing my first year at Rochester Community and Technical College majoring in equine science horse husbandry. I also will be going back next year to major in riding and training. I will be doing an internship this summer in Iowa. Kayla Durst, 18 Tell us about yourDairy Star Sponsor: self, the farm you live and/or work on, and your Davis Seed & Chemical Hayfield, MN future plans. I live on a 507-383-8118 hobby farm with my parents and my sister. I work for my uncle’s and my grandfather’s farm, Durst Brothers Dairy, working in the shop area. My responsibilities include packing silage, equipment maintenance and mowing lawns. My future plans are to finish college and find a job. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to represent the dairy farmers to let people know that we produce quality dairy products that are safe and good for them. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? People who choose to farm do so because they love the animals and they love the lifestyle. Without proper care, their animals would not produce the milk the farmer is looking to get. Caring for the environment is important to the farmer. Doing what is right for the land and what is right for the animals is always important to a farmer.

Douglas County

Parents: Jim and Julie Bosek Town: Garfield What is your current status? I live on a 225 acre farm south of Brandon, Minn. with my parents and four siblings. I am currently a senior at Brandon High School and will be graduating in May 2010. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am very Crystal Bosek, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: active in my community, Fernholz Farms school, work, and at home Kensington, MN on the farm. My favorite involvement is with community service projects. In school, I am involved in FFA, orchestra, and sports. I have been in 4-H for 12 years and am active at both club and county levels. I have established my own beef Limousin herd, which I acquired with the money I made at work. I have been working at Little Brook Dairy for three years and we milk 300 Jersey and Holstein cattle. My favorite time is when I get to bottle feed a newborn calf. My future plans are to get a degree in veterinary science, work at the dairy farm, and one day start my own dairy farm. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Farming is a part of our American heritage. With a sustainable product, such as milk, we are able to supply nutritious food to our country’s people. Dairy farmers, in this country, are decreasing. By becoming a dairy princess and representing my county’s dairy farmers, my goal is to educate the public, from younger children to adults, so they understand why we need dairy farmers in our everyday lives. With our hard economic times, children are affected with unbalanced diets. It would be an honor to help promote how the dairy industry produces quality, safe, nutritious products at affordable prices, so our children don’t go under nourished. My favorite quote from a first grader, during our schools dairy month promotion, “I finally did it. I got to drink two cartons of milk at lunch.” What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would educate them on how much dairy farmers really care. If you have healthy dairy cows you have a healthy environment that not only the cows, live in but you and your family live in as well. With new technology on the rise, dairy farmers are right there. They have incorporated free-stall housing, non-slip flooring and advanced ventilation systems. Dairy farmers and their employees are handling the cows daily and with regular vet checks this ensures prompt medical treatment when necessary. When taking good care of a dairy farmer’s biggest investment, the cows, a high quality product is the result. Nutritionists make sure the cows are getting balanced diets, to produce quality milk. There are many FDA guidelines to make sure no antibiotics are found in the milk that reach the consumer. Dairy farmers work hard to protect the quality of water and land. Proper nutrition for the cows reduces methane gas. The use of manure on fields increases water holding capacity of the soil and decreases the amount of chemicals needed. For the dairy farmer and the public it’s a win, win situation.

The largest share of milk products is sold through retail supermarkets, followed by dairy and convenience stores.

Douglas County continued Parents: Robert and Roxanne Massmann Town: Osakis What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at the University of Minnesota, Morris. I am pursuing a major in elementary education and minor in psychology. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am inSamantha volved not only in the dairy industry, but in 4-H, EduMassmann cation Minnesota Student Dairy Star Sponsor: Program (EMSP), FencOsakis Creamery ing Club, Students Today Association Leaders Forever (STLF), Osakis, MN TREC Track Literacy Pro320-859-2146 gram, and Big Friend Little Friend. Through these programs, I am very involved in the community and I am able to develop leadership skills that are beneficial to becoming a role model and representative of the dairy industry. The farm has been in our family for 60 years. We milk about 58 cows, raise youngstock and chickens, and grow several varieties of crops. I work with my parents, brothers, sister, uncle, and grandparents throughout the year, which is my favorite part of having a family farm. Our milk is shipped to Osakis Creamery Association then to AMPI to be made into cheese. My future plans include becoming a teacher and implementing my experiences and knowledge of the dairy industry into the curriculum. I also plan on continuing to be involved in my community and on our family farm. I hope to one day live on a dairy farm of my own. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I chose to run for dairy princess because I love the dairy industry and I wanted to be a representative of it. By being a part of the dairy industry, I feel that it is my duty to spread the word that dairy farmers are dedicated to providing consumers with wholesome, nutritious milk and dairy foods, which also includes caring for their animals and land. My number one goal as a dairy princess is to be a representative of and share my knowledge of the dairy industry with consumers. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? With recent recalls of some consumer products, I feel that the main concern consumers have about dairy products is the safety. To address these concerns, I would inform the public that dairy foods go through extensive testing before the products reach the store. These steps are taken to show that the dairy farmers/industry takes pride in the wholesome and safe products they provide and to help consumers feel good about consuming all dairy products.

Parents: Leonard and Jodi Hintzen Town: Carlos What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at the University of Minnesota in the College of Food Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences. I am majoring in animal science with an emphasis in dairy and swine production. Tell us about yourMeg Hintzen self, the farm you live Dairy Star Sponsor: and/or work on, and your Osakis Creamery future plans. I live on a Association fourth generation dairy Osakis, MN farm in Belle River Town320-859-2146 ship where we milk 38 Holstein cows. We also raise our own replacement heifers and feeder steers. My farm duties include feeding the heifers, dry cows Douglas County continued on next page

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Douglas County continued

Fillmore County continued

Goodhue County continued

and calves. I also clean the cow barn and the calf barns. During the summer I help out with picking up hay, hooking up machinery and mowing lawn. In school I am active in Gopher Dairy Club and Lambda Delta Phi. I actively participate in Douglas County 4-H as a county 4-H ambassador youth leader and club member. I am also currently serving as a 20092010 Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador. At the county fair, I show dairy, beef, goats and swine along with building exhibits. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I am excited to be a dairy princess so I can share my love of the dairy industry with others. Even though living and growing up on a farm is hard work, I am always eager to share with others my farm and the animals when they come and visit. I like to educate them on the care the cows receive and the whole process of how the milk gets from the farm to the store. As people have less exposure to farm life, their understanding of how food reaches their table lessens. As a dairy princess, I will be able to reach more people with that message. My number one goal as a dairy princess is to share the health benefits of dairy products. Dairy foods are the number one source of calcium in our food supply, which is essential to promote bone health. Many children are not meeting the daily calcium requirement in their diet. I also want to promote dairy products as helpful to weight loss as well. There are many low fat or non fat dairy products that taste great and are good for you. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? One consumer concern is that dairy products are fattening or make you gain weight. In fact, dairy products can actually help you lose weight as part of a balanced healthy diet. Dairy products are high in protein, calcium and other nutrients that are necessary in our diet. Also, there are many fat free or low fat dairy products for consumers to purchase. Another concern that consumers have is dairy product safety. There are strict safety regulations in place from the farm to the store, which ensure safe dairy products for everyone. Dairy farmers take pride in producing the safest, most wholesome product they can and do everything they can to make that happen from cow comfort and health, cleanliness of facilities, testing to ensure safe milk supply and more. As the milk moves through the process of becoming other dairy products, everyone takes pride and uses the testing and safety procedures in place to have the best product available to consumers.

that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? For us to create a safe and healthy product for our families and other consumers, we need to take care of our animals and environment. If we don’t, we could not produce the healthy and nutritious product consumers expect. We also need to care for our land for future generations. It pretty much comes down to if we take care of our animals and land, our animals and land will take care of us by producing a healthy product.

ty? It is important to me to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in my county because the dairy industry is very important to me. It is something I grew up around and am passionate about. I truly believe in the dairy industry, and want to help promote it to keep hardworking farmers employed. I hope to do this by sharing my knowledge of dairy along with information of the nutritional benefits of dairy products. I am proud to represent the dairy farmers of Goodhue County. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell consumers that I know firsthand how much dairy farmers care for their cows and the land. Not only from my family’s farm, but also from the many other farmers that I know in the industry. Dairy farmers treat their animals well to produce high quality milk. They go through many precautions to keep milk safe to drink. Farmers also take care of their land by rotating crops and use other conservation practices.

Fillmore County

Parents: Jerry and Diane Drinkall Town: Lanesboro What is your current status? I am a freshman at Crossroads College in Rochester, Minn., majoring in family, youth and community studies. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the daughter of Jerry and Stephanie Diane Drinkall and have two older siblings: Jennifer Drinkall, 19 (Patrick) Skiba of North Dairy Star Sponsor: Branch, Minn., and Adam. Plainview Milk My parents own and operProducts ate a 240-acre farm with Plainview, MN 100 registered Holstein 800-356-5601 and Jersey cows and 30 registered Black Angus beef cows. We also grow corn, oats and alfalfa. My future plans include opening a youth center to help at-risk youth. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I have gained something through the dairy industry I could not gain elsewhere. I want to give back to the dairy industry by promoting its products and educating the public about the importance of getting their daily servings of dairy. What would you say to convince consumers

Freeborn County Parents: Matthew and Sharon Wangen Town: Albert Lea What is your current status? I am a junior at Albert Lea High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 200-acre dairy farm where we milk 43 Holstein cows. I help my dad feed all of our cows, calves, and Elizabeth other livestock and help get the cows ready to be Wangen, 17 milked. I love living on a Dairy Star Sponsor: farm because there are so Thermo King Sales & many things to do such as Service feeding the cows, helping Albert Lea, MN a cow if one gets sick and 507-377-1631 also getting them tame for the fair. Since I grew up on a farm, I am thinking of going to school to be a veterinarian. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being dairy princess is important to me because I want to support all of the dairy farmers in Freeborn County. I want people to know that dairy farmers love their cows. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell them that our cows are well fed and cared for. My dad makes his living from the cows so it’s a benefit to him to keep them healthy and productive. A healthy cow is a happy cow.

Goodhue County Parents: David and Becky Friese Town: Wanamingo What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Kenyon-Wanamingo High School. I work at Farm Country Co-op in the kitchen, and also at the Security Bank of Wanamingo, as a teller. I am involved in 4-H, FFA, Junior Holstein Association, Student Council, and the Rachel Friese, 18 Education Foundation. Dairy Star Sponsor: Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Farm Country Co-op Plainview, MN and/or work on, and your 507-534-2531 future plans. My family and I live on a 120 acre dairy farm. We milk 65 registered Holstein cows and grow corn, alfalfa, and soybeans. Our farm is called Rodash-View Holsteins. This fall, I plan to attend the University of MinnesotaTwin Cities to study pre-veterinary medicine. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your coun-

Parents: Larry and Joan Grove Town: Wanamingo What is your current status? I attend Rochester Technical and Community College for my general education. I also work fulltime on Kurt and Kelly Ronningen’s dairy farm south of Wanamingo. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am one of Christine Grove, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: my parents’ 15 children; GB Feed & Supply I have nine brothers, and Bellchester, MN five sisters. I grew up on 651-923-4425 a small hobby farm outside of Wanamingo, where we had horses, dogs, cats, and miscellaneous 4-H animals. I currently live on the Ronningen farm where I work; we milk 130 cows, mostly Holsteins, some Brown Swiss and a few Jerseys. After I graduate with a degree in community counseling, I hope to work at a crisis pregnancy center, and hopefully remain involved in the dairy industry in some way. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a representative for the dairy farmers in my county is very important to me because I feel I have a lot of knowledge about dairy nutrition, the impact the dairy industry has on the economy as a whole and a lot of day-to-day knowledge about how the dairy industry operates. I want to share as much of that information as possible with people. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would start by saying the animals are the livelihood of the farmer. Their health and comfort is the dairy farmers number one priority. Land is also very important to dairy farmers because, like the animals, the land is not just a source of income but something that is passed down from generation to generation. To make that possible the farmers are preserving the soil by being good stewards of the land. By caring for their animals and land, they are able to produce a safe and wholesome product of which they can be proud. Goodhue County continued on next page

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Goodhue County continued

Houston County continued

Parents: Jean Jensch and the late Bill Jensch Town: Zumbrota What is your current status? I am attending Rochester Community and Technical College, where I am in my second year working towards a liberal arts degree. I live in Zumbrota and work for Nibbe Holsteins in rural Zumbrota. I also work part-time at Main St. Pharmacy in Zumbrota. After I Victoria Jensch, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: get my AA degree, I plan Lodermeier’s Inc. on transferring to a bigger Goodhue, MN university to major in com651-923-4441 munications. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work for Paul and Ann Nibbe of Zumbrota. They farm 150 acres of corn, alfalfa, oats and beans. Their herd is composed entirely of Registered Holsteins. Currently, they are milking 40 cows, and house all their young stock on the farm. I help Paul milk, feed cows, feed calves and clean barn. I also help with haying in the summer. I rake hay, haul loads, and then help unload hay into the mow. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me because I want to educate people who aren’t familiar with the dairy industry. I want to be able to share what I have learned from being in the industry; how much work goes on behind the scenes, and how passionate dairy farmers are about their jobs and way of life. I did not grow up on a working dairy farm, but I started working in the dairy industry four years ago, and I love it. I want to share my passion and knowledge. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would invite them out to the farm I work at and show them what we do to take care of our animals and take care of the land. I would show them first-hand what goes on before any products go to the store. I would explain the milking process to them, how we clean the udders before milking, and how we keep the cows comfortable all the time. Our animals are extremely important to us. When we take care of them, they take care of us. We rotate our crops every year to help prevent erosion. Being good stewards of the land and taking care of our animals is important to maintain a living in the dairy industry.

educations workshops to give a hands-on experience to the community and local schools. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? With the rising of the sun each day, the dairy farmer has a new story to tell, from the birth of a new calf to the corn growing each night. Dairy farmers take pride and have a passion for producing a product that is one of nature’s most perfect foods. This story is one that everyone needs to hear. As a dairy princess it is my job to tell their story. Each day, the farmer takes special care of his land and animals to ensure the product he or she is producing is safe and wholesome. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell them that each day I am proud to be a part of agriculturalists across the state that rise with the sun and work long hours into the evening. These people serve the public by providing them with a wholesome and safe product for everyone to enjoy. Farmers produce and market their products because of one thing – passion. It is this passion that drives my father to the barn each morning to care for the animals. It is this passion that drives the amazing people in agriculture to improve and become more efficient at what they do. Farmers are dedicated to their land and animals because it is not only their way of life, but it is their livelihood.

Parents: Steve and Lori Wiste Town: Spring Grove What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Spring Grove High School. I work on our family dairy farm with my parents. I also work playing piano for a local church. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My parents own a dairy farm outside Spring Sophie Wiste, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Grove. We milk about 100 cows. We have Holstein, Finseth Milk Hauling Fountain, MN Jersey and crossbred cat507-268-4457 tle. I help with morning and evening milkings and help feed the youngstock. We also raise Percheron horses. This fall, I will be attending Minnesota State University-Mankato for anthropology, focusing on osteology and forensics. My hobbies include reading, singing, working with film, and playing the piano and guitar. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important for me to represent the dairy farmers in my county because our generation is the future of the dairy industry. We need to stand up and promote the living we work so hard for. We need to promote our products, not just on a local scale, but nationally and globally as well. Representing dairy producers is my way of saying ‘thank you’ for making me who I am and giving my family a means of survival in past generations. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Most dairy producers are in the business because they care about the industry. Those farmers take good care of their animals for two reasons: because they love their animals and the animals are their life and because animals that are treated well will produce better. Healthy cows produce healthy products. Producers care for the environment as well, taking care of the land to make a living.

Houston County

Parents: Richard and Linda Johnson Town: LaCrescent What is your current status? I am a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls majoring in agriculture marketing and communication with a minor in computer science and information systems. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and Labecca your future plans. My family and I take pride in Johnson, 19 producing a wholesome Dairy Star Sponsor: product everyday on our Plainview Milk Products 130-cow Holstein and Plainview, MN Jersey farm located nine 800-356-5601 miles west of LaCrescent. My parents along with my brothers and sisters have taken pride in what we do to provide the world with food and fiber. We have opened our farm to the local elementary schools to show students how milk gets from the cow to the store. My future plans include completing my degree and returning to the farm to work with the local communities to set up tours and

Parents: Dan and Cheryl Wiste Town: Spring Grove What is your current status? I am a senior at Spring Grove High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I love to sew and be outside during the summer. We have 57 cows, mostly Holsteins. My job is feeding young calves grain and whatever else Rachel Wiste, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: I’m told to do. I am active Farmer’s Co-op in our 4-H club, FFA chapElevator ter, and am a dairy judging Caledonia, MN team member. I will be atRushford, MN tending Western Technical Spring Grove, MN College in LaCrosse, Wis. Houston, MN for ag business. 800-427-2520 Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important so I can go and tell people the healthy facts of dairy products. I enjoy visiting with people. Farming is very important in my life, so it would be nice for me to give back what I’ve learned over the years. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say that farmers care about their animals because what goes into the cows goes into people, and farmers don’t abuse cows, because they give so much back to us. Farmers follow guidelines set by the state for cleanliness and would not sell the products that they would not consume themselves.

People crave cheese more than any other food.

Kandiyohi County

Parents: Jerome and Kristine Bengtson Town: Kandiyohi What is your current status? I am 18 and a senior at New London-Spicer High School. I work on the family dairy farm helping with feeding chores and I work closely with my dad to make genetic decisions for breeding. I also work part time after school and during the summer at Michaela PALS, an after school and summer child care proBengtson, 18 gram through the school. Dairy Star Sponsor: Tell us about your- AMPI - Paynesville self, the farm you live Division and/or work on, and your Paynesville, MN future plans. I am active www.ampi.com in my church youth group, D&D Ag Supply National Honor Society, Pennock, MN Peer Tutors, Senior Class 320-599-4466 Treasurer, Choir, Atwater Threshers Group, HOBY youth leadership, and am currently the NL-S Chapter FFA President and Region 5 FFA Vice-President. I am the youngest of three daughters and live and work on our family’s 34cow dairy farm. We raise our own feed and milk Holsteins. Our family dream is to fill the barn with red and white Holsteins and we are currently about threefourths of the way there. I own nine of these. I plan to attend Ridgewater College and go on to complete Kandiyohi County continued on next page

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Kandiyohi County continued

my degree at an affiliated four-year college for Agriculture Education. I will use this degree to continue educating the public about the dairy industry and the benefits of dairy products. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I grew up on a dairy farm and am very proud of the way of life that I have been fortunate to be able to enjoy all these years. It is important to me to have the opportunity and ability to represent my county dairy farmers. I enjoy being able to educate the public about the nutritious and wholesome products that our dairy cows produce. I also enjoy showing the public the pride and passion that each and every dairy family has for their way of life. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a sale and healthy product? Consumers are becoming more and more involved in understanding where and how their food is produced. I would let these consumers know all about how dairy farmers care about their cows and the environment they live in. Dairy farmers know that a healthy cow is a happy cow and that by having happy cows, they will produce their most nutritious and tasty milk for the consumers. Dairy farmers also care about the land and environment because their livelihood depends upon it. By caring for the land, dairy farmers are securing the land for future generations and making sure that their cows have a safe and comfortable place to thrive. By caring for both our cows and the environment, we are ensuring that consumers will get wholesome products and that the environment will be around for future generations to enjoy.

Parents: Gene and Shelly Gatewood Town: Willmar What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Willmar High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s dairy farm. Together, we milk 67 Holstein cows and raise all of our replace- Julie Gatewood, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: ment heifers. We also grow corn and oats. Throughout D&D Ag Supply high school, I’ve been inPennock, MN volved in student council, 320-599-4466 key club, choir, 4-H, and FFA. I’m also active in my church as a Sunday School teacher. I plan on attending Ridgewater College in Willmar to pursue the animal science/pre-veterinarian program. I intend to pursue a career as a large animal veterinarian. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? The importance of being a dairy princess, to me, means that I can share my love of the dairy industry with many others. Also, by being a dairy princess, I educate the public about the importance and health benefits of the wholesome dairy products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would point out to the consumers that it doesn’t matter if it is Easter, the Fourth of July, Christmas, or a Sunday; the dairy people are out in the barn caring for the animals. The animals come first, and then they go to their holiday celebration. Another point I would let them know is that dairy producers keep written records of all the herd health activities to make sure the milk is safe to drink.

Parents: Jim and Sue Schueler Town: Raymond What is your current status? I’m currently a senior in high school. In school I’m involved in band, SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) and FFA, where I am currently the chapter secretary. I’m also involved in 4-H. I work at home and at another dairy farm. Amy Schueler Tell us about yourDairy Star Sponsor: self, the farm you live and/or work on, and your D&D Ag Supply future plans. Currently, Pennock, MN I’m working at home, help320-599-4466 ing my parents manage a 50 to 60 cow operation. I, myself, am taking care of 26 goats, which are coming in now! Along with our dairy farm, I help on a neighboring 100 cow dairy farm. I plan on attending Ridgewater College in Willmar for dairy operations and management. I hope to someday have a 100 plus dairy goat operation. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess is important to me because I want to inform the consumers that dairy farmers care for their cows, as they do for their land. They produce wholesome, nutritious milk, and numerous other dairy products that we enjoy every day. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Farmers wake up early in the morning to enjoy the sight of walking into the barn and the cows raise their heads to look at them, as they expect to be fed and well cared for. We, as farmers, earn our livelihood producing a product that improves the health of our state. As we milk our cows, we check on them to make sure they are healthy. I’m sure all farmers have their local vet on speed dial for any animal emergency. We care for our animals, and in return, we get a wonderful product.

Parents: John and Laura Cunningham Town: Atwater What is your current status? I am a senior at Atwater-Cosmos-Grove City High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a three sport athlete; basketball, softball, and volleyball. In school, I’m involved in FFA, choir, Samantha band, and I was in the school play. I am presently the Cunningham, 18 president of our 4-H club. Dairy Star Sponsor: On the farm we used to milk D&D Ag Supply 80 cows, but now we have Pennock, MN 30 replacement heifers. I 320-599-4466 plan to attend Ridgewater College in Willmar for preveterinarian medicine, then I will transfer to either the University of Minnesota or Iowa State for their veterinarian program. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? My grandfather milked cows, my dad milked cows, and I have helped milk cows. So, by being a dairy princess, I can bring honor, respect, and most of all, attention to my family’s heritage in the dairy industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say if you raise a garden, if you raised a child, and if you raise a cow, these all need to be raise in a productive and safe environment. Therefore, taking care of your child or plant is the same as a farmer taking care of their cows, for maximum comfort, productivity, health, and in a safe environment.

The average herd size in America is 135 cows.

Parents: Craig and Kathy Hinseth Town: New London What is your current status? I am a senior at New London-Spicer High School and am working on my family’s farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am 17 years old. I am very active in FFA. I live and work on my parents’ dairy farm Brenda Hinseth, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: where we milk 40 cows and farm about 160 acres D&D Ag Supply of land. My future plans Pennock, MN are to attend Ridgewater 320-599-4466 College and study in their legal administrative assistant program. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess is important to me because I want to share my passion for the dairy industry with the community and show the pride dairy farmers have in what we do every day. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a sale and healthy product? Producers take great pride in caring for their animals, providing healthy products and caring for the environment. Producers know the better they care for their animals and the land, the more they will be able to produce for consumers to enjoy.

Parents: Michael and Brenda Tait Town: Kandiyohi What is your current status? I’m currently a senior at Community Christian School in Willmar; I will be the first graduating class this spring. I work with my family on our dairy farm; this includes me doing anything from milking and feeding calves to running equipment and doing field work. Tell us about yourself, Michelle Tait, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: the farm you live and/or work on, and your future D&D Ag Supply plans. I live with my parents Pennock, MN and two sisters on our dairy 320-599-4466 farm just north of Kandiyohi. We are currently milking about 55 cows in a tie stall barn and also raise calves, bulls, and crops. As far as my plans for next year, I would like to study fashion design; I’m still deciding which school I would like to attend. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I think that is important for me to be a dairy princess because I will have more opportunities to showcase the hard work of farmers in Kandiyohi County and the pride that they have for their cows and milk. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell them that we treat our all of our cows just like pets and provide them with the best care and living conditions possible. We take good care of the land and the animals because they belong to God, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1) In putting so much effort into the animals and farm, we are providing a safe and healthy product.

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Le Sueur/Scott Counties

Parents: Tim and Sandy Breeggemann Town: Shakopee What is your current status? I am currently studying at Normandale Community College, and will be transferring to Mankato next fall semester for a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement. I will continue to work at St. Gertrude’s Health and Rehab Center in Shakopee Shelby throughout my schooling. Tell us about your- Breeggemann, 19 self, the farm you live Dairy Star Sponsor: and/or work on, and your Prairie Farm Supply of future plans. I live on a Belle Plaine 90-cow, 250 acre dairy Belle Plaine, MN farm. My chores on the 952-873-4234 farm are milking and helping with the feeding. After completing school I hope to become a police officer somewhere close to my hometown. I will continue to help with work on the farm as well. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to represent all farmers; I feel they don’t receive the credit they deserve for all the hard work they put into their products. Being a dairy producer is not just a job; it is a lifestyle, and never an easy one. Dairy farmers have to constantly worry about the difficulties that arise with producing the product. I am happy to take away their worry to promote their final product. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers take pride in the job they do. They commit their lives to producing the perfect final product. Producers spend a great majority of their time with their livestock, and greatly care that all their needs are meet through the environment they live and what they are feed.

Parents: Robert and Carol Holicky Town: Le Center What is your current status? I work at Hoefs’ Dairy. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a hobby farm outside Le Center, where I grew up the youngest of eight children. I have been working for Hoefs’ Dairy for the Anna Holicky, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: past two years. I plan to atHoef’s Dairy tend college in the fall. New Prague, MN Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I believe it is important to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy industry because I can help promote dairy to the public and especially to those who are not familiar with the industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are committed to caring for their animals and producing safe and healthy products because they are using the same end product as the consumers. They want to be sure to be providing safe products to their families as well. They also want to take good care of their animals to ensure the future of the industry and show their children how the animals should be cared for.

Le Sueur/Scott Counties continued

Parents: Dale and Patty Krekelberg Town: Le Sueur What is your current status? I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities where I am pursuing a degree in animal science with an emphasis in dairy production. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am from a Emily small, family-run farm in rural Le Sueur. We milk Krekelberg, 19 about 45 cows, raise our Dairy Star Sponsor: own youngstock and farm United Farmers Co-op about 100 acres. In the fuWinthrop, MN ture, I would like to work 507-647-6600 in the dairy industry either in an on-location job with cattle or doing promotions. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Dairy farming is an important part of the culture of rural Minnesota; I feel it is an industry that needs to be represented. Dairy farming is something I have known all my life, and it’s something I’m proud of. Being a dairy princess is more than a crown, it’s representing the dairy farmers out there working hard every day of the week, every month of the year, producing a delicious, wholesome product for consumers to enjoy. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell consumers about my personal experiences on the farm. I would tell them of my childhood memories of the excitement of having the milk tester come, of enjoying getting to watch the veterinarian examine the herd, of getting to show our calves for 4-H. I think personal stories like those speak the loudest about dairy farmers’ true dedication to the well-being and care of their animals. In addition, I would explain to consumers how we are responsible caretakers of the land we farm. Dairy producers put a lot of effort forth to keep the environment clean and safe. After all, they are feeding the nation. With that in mind, farmers only use the safest, most wholesome methods in the production of milk. Minnesota’s dairy farmers pride themselves in providing consumers with a healthy, wholesome product, they should include in their diet three times a day.

What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would first assure consumers that dairy producers take diligent care to maintain proper health in animals by providing a safe and healthy environment. We all know how expensive it is to be ill, and it is the same with a farmer and his herd. If the animals are always sick, they will not only lose milk production but also create a very expensive vet bill. In order to maintain healthy animals, the farmers commit themselves to providing proper nutrition as well as monitoring for any signs of sick or ill animals. I would strongly encourage people to visit local farms if they have any questions or concerns so that they can see first-hand how care is taken. As far as the environment, it is important to remember that farmers live in the same environment as everyone else and a clean environment is important to them as well.

Parents: John and Patricia Scheffler Town: St. Patrick What is your current status? I am a junior at Winona State UniversityRochester. I am finishing my first year in the nursing program, with one year to go until I graduate with my bachelor’s of science degree. Along with school, I work as a certified nursing assistant, personal care attendant, and a server at a Andrea restaurant in Prior Lake on Scheffler, 21 weekends and during the Dairy Star Sponsor: summer. Lonsdale Feed Mill Tell us about yourLonsdale, MN self, the farm you live 507-744-2367 and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a farm with approximately 40 milking cows and 270 acres. We also have a horse, goat, dog, multiple cats and our newest addition is a miniature donkey. My future plans are to finish nursing school and get a nursing job working in a hospital. This summer I will be working as an intern at St. Francis Hospital in Shakopee and am looking forward to the extra nursing experience. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I believe it is important to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers to help promote the industry as well as recognize all the hard work it takes to run a farm. Not only is it important to promote the dairy industry, but it is important to spread the knowledge of how important dairy products are for everyone’s health and well being.

Parents: John and Tish Scheffler Town: Prior Lake What is your current status? I just finished cosmetology school and work full time at Mastercuts in Burnsville. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. When I am not working, I help on the farm feeding cows and calves, haying the animals, work- Megan Scheffler, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: ing in the fields and doing the milking with my sisters Kreuser Veterinarian Clinic when Dad has somewhere Jordan, MN to be. In my spare time, I 952-492-2725 am out with my horse and on weekends in the summer I enjoy competing in horse shows. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Since there are not a lot of dairy farmers left, I feel people who are not familiar with the industry don’t realize the impact farmers have on a community. They also don’t realize the amount of work farmers put in for the community’s benefit. We couldn’t live without dairy products. I am a dairy princess to support all dairy farmers. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? The animals are responsible for giving the farmers their income. The more milk the cow provides, the better. The happier the cow, the more milk it provides. Farmers want their land to be as clean and fertile as possible. The better the land quality, the better the crops. It is a cycle.

Parents: Randy and Cheryl Warner Town: New Prague What is your current status? I am a senior at New Prague High School where I am involved in the community and sports. When I am not working on the farm, I am a sandwich artist at Subway. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a Kayla Warner, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: 300-acre Holstein dairy farm west of New Prague Waconia Farm Supply Waconia, MN where we milk 80 cows. I 952-466-5619 have two younger brothers and an older sister. I am a third generation 4-Her and have been involved for the past 12 years showing cattle at the Scott County Fair and the Minnesota State Fair. I am a track captain, class officer, in National Le Sueur/Scott Counties continued on next page

Le Sueur/Scott Counties continued

Honor Society and dance. I will be attending Gustavus Adolphus College in the fall. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? As a dairy princess, it is important to be a positive role model and representative for the industry. I feel it is my duty to educate consumers about the hard work farmers do so consumers can enjoy the many healthy and tasty dairy products. Many consumers don’t understand how much farmers contribute and how hard they work to provide for their families and the world. Small family farms are becoming scarce and it is important to educate others about their benefits and contributions. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Try going a day without dairy products. It is nearly impossible! These products are crucial to all healthy diets, and dairy producer’s products go through extensive testing with the consumer’s well being in mind. Farmers are hard working and work to care for their animals in extreme heat and cold, seven days a week (plus overtime) with no sick leave or vacations, and no excuses. I would say that is dedication! Then the hard work is passed down to the next generation.

Parents: Jon and Lisa Zweber Town: Elko What is your current status? I am a senior at New Prague High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 250-acre organic dairy farm in Elko, Minn. We milk about 100 cows, including Holsteins, Brown Swiss and crossSamantha breds. I help around the farm by milking and feedZweber, 18 ing calves, and I am very Dairy Star Sponsor: involved in the selective Midwest Livestock breeding decisions. I am Systems president of my 4-H club, Pine Island, MN and enjoy showing cattle at 507-356-8349 both county and state fairs. I plan to attend St. Catherine’s University next fall and major in nursing. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I think it is important to give a face to the dairy industry. Growing up on a farm has given me a greater appreciation for the dairy farmers who work hard each and every day to produce a wholesome and nutritious product. I feel it is important to support and promote all of the work that is involved in farming. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say that all dairy farmers are committed to keeping their animals safe and healthy. Dairy cattle must be well cared for in order to produce the maximum amount of milk. It is in the farmer’s best interests to ensure the cows are happy and healthy. Therefore, dairy farmers work hard each day to produce a wholesome and safe product. Caring for their environment is also very important to farmers. Dairy farmers depend on their natural resources to feed and fuel their dairy operations.

More than 10 pounds of milk go into one pound of cheese.

Lincoln County Parents: Tom and Mary Gunnink Town: Lake Benton What is your current status? I am currently attending Elkton Public High School. I work on my parent’s dairy farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am active in 4-H and FFA. I have participated on judging Jennifer teams and showing events. I live on a dairy farm. We Gunnink, 18 have about 100 cows and Dairy Star Sponsor: 100 youngstock. I help Gorter’s Clay & Dairy with the calf care, milking, Equipment and vaccination program. Pipestone, MN After high school, I plan to 507-825-3271 attend Lake Area Technical Institute for dairy science. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I hope that becoming a dairy princess and promoting dairy products will help with keeping the dairy industry alive. I would like to help kids understand the importance of dairy products in their diets and where they come from. I would like to help with the awareness of the healthy and nutritious products to make a better living for the dairy farmers. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Most of the time, the animals are treated better than humans. They sleep in clean beds with well ventilated areas. They can eat whenever they want, without having to make the food. They are always being cleaned up after. Most farms build facilities to store the manure for an extended period to be spread on crop ground to help increase soil fertility.

Lyon County Parents: Greg and Becky Moorse Town: Minneota What is your current status? I am a sophomore dairy production major and ag business minor at South Dakota State University. I go back to my family’s dairy to work as much as can Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your Brittany future plans. My family’s dairy farm, located near Moorse, 20 Minneota, is a partnership Dairy Star Sponsor: between my parents and Gorter’s Clay & Dairy my two uncles. We have a Equipment 90-cow herd consisting of Pipestone, MN registered Jerseys, Brown 507-825-3271 Swiss, and Holsteins. I’m involved with Dairy Club, Alpha Zeta, 4-H volunteer, Jersey and Brown Swiss associations, and Lyon County Dairy Princess Program. My future plans include finishing school and either going back to our family’s farm or work as a veterinarian technician. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? There are many reasons why being a dairy princess is important to me. The first reason is because I am the first dairy princess in our county in nearly 20 years. We only have nine dairy farms and I feel they need to be represented for all of their dedication, passion and hard work they give to their communities and to the dairy industry. I believe in the dairy industry and I want to inform people about the industry I feel so passionate about. Since I was a little girl, I wanted to be a dairy princess like my family members before me. The dairy industry plays such a large role in my family’s life; I want to represent them, my local producers and the industry.

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Lyon County continued

What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are passionate, dedicated and hard working individuals that are responsible stewards of the land. Dairy producers are devoted to the health and care of their animals in every aspect of their animals’ lives. A secure food supply is important to dairy producers and they take pride in providing consumers a safe, nutritious, and wholesome product to enjoy.

McLeod County

Parents: David and Donna Anderson Town: Lester Prairie What is your current status? I am a sophomore at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, majoring in animal science, with a dairy production emphasis. Some of my other activities include American Guernsey Association, Gopher Dairy Club, and Beta of Clovia Sorority. Tell us about your- Karen Anderson, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: self, the farm you live and/or work on, and your Lange Dairy & Electric Glencoe, MN future plans. Up the Creek 320-864-5575 Farm is a 158 acre family farm, where we are currently milking 45 registered Guernsey cows. We also raise 55 youngstock, corn, soybeans, and alfalfa. My brother and I mark the seventh generation on our sesquicentennial farm. In the future, I plan to graduate from the University of Minnesota with a degree in animal science – dairy production, which I will utilize to find a job within the dairy industry. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Ever since I was little, I have always looked up to the past dairy princesses and the people that have given me numerous opportunities to succeed within the dairy industry. By being a dairy princess, I receive the opportunity to give back to the dairy industry that has given so much to me. I am also honored to represent the hard working dairy farmers and to be a goodwill ambassador for the dairy industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy cows are the main reason to be in the dairy industry! It is the farmers’ job to ensure that each and every cow is healthy and well cared for. When the cows are well cared for, they produce the safe and healthy dairy product that we all enjoy. To ensure the health of our cattle, farmers care for the land and the environment to produce the high quality feeds that our cattle consume. Our cows convert the feed into safe and wholesome milk that is made into cheese, yogurts, and many other delicious dairy products. Parents: Kevin and Lori Buss Town: Hutchinson What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Hutchinson High School and will graduating in the spring of 2010. I am working on our family farm, Kev-Lor farms. I also am very involved in the Hutchinson FFA Chapter and McLeod County 4-H. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live on and future plans. I am very involved in the local FFA chapter where I was an officer for four years

Kelsey Buss, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: First District Association Litchfield, MN 320-693-3236

McLeod County continued on next page

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McLeod County continued

and show and judge dairy cows. I am currently the McLeod County 4-H Youth Association president and love to help lead summer camps. I work on our family farm, milking 55 Holstein and crossbred cows and feeding calves. I help with a small amount of the field work, where our family runs 150 acres of corn and alfalfa. In the fall, I will be furthering my education with a major in animal science. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is very important for me to be representing the dairy farmers because they work very hard to produce a wholesome and nutritious product that everyone can enjoy. Also, it is fun to be able to work with people in my community and educate them about the farmers’ job and products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Farmers work very hard every day to keep their cows healthy so they will produce a pure, wholesome product. Farmers depend on land, air and water as part of their livelihood. They follow strict water quality regulations, and meet standards for manure storage, handling and recycling. Producers need to care for their land because it is what they will pass on from generation to generation.

Parents: Tim and Ann Nix Town: Plato What is your current status? I am currently attending Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall. While there, I am planning on majoring in radio/TV broadcasting, or producing with a minor in Spanish. During the summer, I work on my family’s farm, and I also work at Hillcrest Café. Elizabeth Nix Tell us about yourDairy Star Sponsor: self, the farm you live and/or work on, and AMPI - Paynesville Division your future plans. I have Paynesville, MN an older brother, Joe (22), www.ampi.com a younger sister, Shannon (14), and a little brother, Andrew (10). My family lives on a farm one mile south of Plato. My hobbies include reading books, watching movies, and playing sports. In the future, I am planning on taking my major of radio/TV and having a career as an anchor or producer. Also, I want to utilize my radio/TV major and Spanish minor and promote the dairy industry to all people. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important for me to be a dairy princess and represent all the farmers in my county so they can keep doing what they love. In these rough times, a lot of farmers have had to give up dairy farming. In doing so, they have lost one of the things they love to do the most. Being a dairy princess and helping the industry to gain more consumers will enable farmers to keep living their dreams. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers are proud of what they do. The land and air that you live and breathe on is the same land and air that our families use, so we do everything in our power to make sure that the environment is cared for. Also, our cows are our livelihood, and without them being healthy, they do not produce milk. As farmers, we do whatever it takes to keep our cows healthy and comfortable, so they produce nutritious and wholesome milk.

Meeker County Parents: George and Lynda Frenchick Town: Paynesville What is your current status? I am currently a sophomore at Hamline University, St. Paul, Minn., where I am double majoring in physical education and exercise and sport science, with a minor in education and psychology. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Kaitlyn and/or work on, and your future plans. I am apart of Frenchick, 20 Hamline’s Cross Country Dairy Star Sponsor: and Track team. I was ac- Watkins Veterinary tive in 4-H & FFA showClinic PA ing our registered Jerseys 320-764-7400 through the years as I was growing up. I love to be outside having fun with family and friends. My family has a small farm were we milk about 15 Jerseys and have about 30 head total. My future is to finish my schooling and start a career either as a phy. ed. teacher or an athletic trainer. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I feel that it is important for me to be a dairy princess and be a representative for my county as I feel a personal need to spread the word about the dairy industry. This is not just to the kids in the county or around my hometown, but also to the kids that do not have the opportunity to have a dairy princess come into their classrooms and tell them about the industry. Being in the cities is one way that I can do this. I want to increase the awareness in a community of how we need to help the farmers that supply us with a major food source, namely our dairy farmers. When milk prices are low, we need to get people purchasing dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese. These products are a great source of nutrition and are needed for a healthy life style. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would start out by explaining that the cows become our family. Those animals give us the money to keep food on our table. If we would mistreat the animals, we would no longer have our income source. Giving personal stories is one way to get the point across to the consumer. The animals that we raise and take care of help fertilize the ground naturally, lessening the need for artificial fertilizer. The cows eat corn, alfalfa and other plant products that take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen during their growth, benefiting our environment. Standards are set monitoring quality of the milk produced and therefore providing a safe and healthy product for the consumer.

Parents: John and Julie Schmitz Town: Eden Valley What is your current status? I am 19 years old. I graduated from Eden Valley Watkins Secondary School in 2008. I am working two part time jobs saving money for college. I plan to do online classes this fall for child development. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Jolene Schmitz, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: and/or work on, and your future plans. My family Center National Bank Litchfield, MN farm is located about eight 800-893-3255 miles southwest of Eden Valley. We are currently milking about 30 registered red and white and black and white Holsteins with a few Milking Shorthorns on our small family farm. On May 8, we are having a sale where the oldest generation of Manannah Valley will cut back on their responsibilities to the farm and my generation

Meeker County continued

will pick up the slack. My future plans include beginning online classes for child development while doing my jobs and also working on the family farm. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I have been a farmer’s daughter and granddaughter all my life. It’s something I love and I am happy to be representing the dairy farmers of Meeker County. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? To farmers, cows are part of the family so they have clean and safe beds to lay. Farmers don’t let their families go unfed.

Parents: Jim and Lisa Turck Town: Litchfield What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minn. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, camping, driving tractor, painting, and Jennifer Turck, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: meeting new people. On Valley Dairy my family’s dairy farm, we Supply, Inc. are milking 60 Holsteins. Eden Valley, MN We also plant corn, soy320-453-6695 beans, alfalfa, and barley. I plan to major in biology and pursue a career in veterinary medicine. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess and representing the dairy farmers in my county is immensely important to me. It is crucial for the promotion of milk and milk products too. Also, I am honored to represent this industry because this group of people are the most dedicated, hard-working, and caring people I know. Growing up on a dairy farm made me who I am today. By representing dairy farmers and promoting the products they provide consumers, I show how thankful I am for everything that the farming lifestyle and my parents have taught me. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers take very good care of their animals. If it wasn’t for their cows, they wouldn’t be able to do what they do. They do everything they can to maintain a healthy herd and call the local veterinarian for assistance in keeping each cow or calf in prime health. The animals become part of the family because of the important role they play in the dairy producer’s life. Also, dairy farmers are great stewards of the land. They live on the land, too, so it is in their best interest to care for the environment, because they wouldn’t want to harm their families or anyone else. They’re always farming out of respect for the environment and incorporating different conservation practices. Because dairy farmers are passionate about what they do and take care of their animals and the environment, they provide consumers with a safe, healthy and tasty, wholesome product. For us to create a safe and healthy product for our families and other consumers, we need to take care of our animals and environment. If we don’t, we could not produce the healthy and nutritious product that consumers expect. We also need to care of our land for future generations. It pretty much comes down to if we take care of our animals and land, our animals and land will take care of us by producing a healthy product.

Mille Lacs County

Parents: Dean and Nancy Dahlstrom Town: Milaca What is your current status? I’m a senior at Milaca High School and am currently attending Bethel University as a post secondary student. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I’m involved in my church. I enjoy reading, Kayla singing, showing animals for 4-H, hunting, fishing, Dahlstrom, 17 camping, four-wheeling, Dairy Star Sponsor: and of course being on the Federated Co-ops farm. I was born and raised Princeton, MN on a small dairy farm, 763-389-2582 where we milk around 60 cows. My future plan is to continue at Bethel University and become a registered nurse. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Representing the dairy farmers is important to me because it gives me a chance to give back to the dairy community that’s been such a big part of my life. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Farmers care for their animals by providing a balanced diet, clean, healthy, comfortable facilities, and good veterinary care, while following certain regulations to keep the environment safe for the cattle and their natural habitat.

Morrison County

Parents: James and Lynn Barthel Town: Swanville What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Swanville Public High School, and work part-time for Bob and Fran’s Grocery Store in Swanville. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 70 cow dairy farm. My job is Kayla Barthel, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: to help with the milking. Swanville, Co-op As for future plans, I will be attending the University Produce & Creamery Swanville, MN of Minnesota, Morris in the 320-547-2445 fall to pursue a teaching career in history. I plan to go back to school and get higher degrees, so I will be able to teach in college some day. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is something I have always wanted to do. I remember being a little kid, going to parades, and seeing the princesses. I would always tell my mom that someday that would be me. Also, I am very proud of the farmers in my county. They are wonderful, hardworking people. I only hope I can do them justice. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Well, first, I’d probably start off with a little humor like “don’t look in California for happy cows; we’ve got them right here.” Next, I would tell them about all of the things farmers do for their animals’ comfort. Also, I would bring up the point that happy, healthy, and comfortable cows produce more milk. It also makes for a healthier and safer product.

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Parents: Dan and Dee Oldakowski Town: Buckman What is your current status? I currently am a senior at Pierz Healy High School. I work on the family farm and at my mom’s wedding decorating service, Dee’s Professional Decorating Services, LLC, located in Little Falls. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Jessica and/or work on, and your future plans. I am a seOldakowski, 18 nior at Pierz Healy High Dairy Star Sponsor: School. I am involved in Athman Dairy varsity tennis, National Pierz, MN Honor Society, FFA, peer 320-468-2494 helping, musicals, and 4-H. In previous years, I have been in choir and plays. I live on a 60 Holstein dairy farm located a few miles south of Buckman. I help milk, feed cows and calves, and do various jobs around the farm. We raise all of our livestock, the cows for milking and breeding, and the steers for market. We have plenty of pet barn cats, a dog, and a miniature horse. We also own a 52,000 broiler Golden Plump chicken barn. My plans for the fall are to attend the University of Minnesota, Morris, and study Spanish and the sciences. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to get the knowledge of dedication, hard work, and perseverance of farms out to the public. Letting people know the safe practices of farming, and the benefits consumers can receive form supporting the dairy industry and products is a main concern. Dairy products are a necessity and should be a part of everyone’s life. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Farmers are very conscientious about producing safe and healthy products for consumers and maintaining high quality care for their animals and the environment. We have regulations that help with the ground, water, and air. A few examples are not planting a certain distance from a body of water, and switching crops in fields to prevent depletion of nutrients. The animals must be kept healthy and safe to produce the best products that they are capable of. Farmers continuously watch the status of the animal’s health to ensure it is well. If not, the animal is treated. When an animal is treated, rules apply before the animal can get back to regular dairy tasks and before its products can be used again. Animal living conditions are cleaned every day in the barn and when needed in pens and outside areas. It is valuable for farmers to keep animals, the environment, and people safe while still being able to work.

ers in my county because they are all hardworking and dedicated people. They need and deserve more credit than they are given, and I hope to help people realize how truly important dairy farmers are. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell them that dairy cattle are supporters to the dairy farmer and they rely on them. They do everything possible to ensure that they will get a wholesome product for their consumers.

Parents: Martin and Louise Rudolph Town: Little Falls What is your current status? I am currently in my senior year of high school in Little Falls, and also work at Jordies Cafe in Bowlus, Minn. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I was born and raised on a famMonica ily owned dairy farm about three miles north of BowRudolph, 18 lus. I am the youngest of Dairy Star Sponsor: eight children, and have Fleet Supply five older brothers, and two Little Falls, MN older sisters. My future 320-632-9240 plans are to attend SCSU and pursue a career in the nursing field. From there, I want to get involved and work with the homecare hospice program. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It’s important for me to represent the dairy farm-

Parents: Melvin and Brenda Van Heel Town: Swanville What is your current status? I am a high school student at Little Falls Community High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I like sports, and I am involved in soccer, basketball, and track at my high school. I enjoy attending school activities, Emily Van Heel, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: playing cards, and spendCentra Sota ing time with friends. I live Little Falls, MN on a dairy farm 12 miles 320-632-3631 west of Little Falls. We milk 100 head, and raise out all of our livestock. I plan to attend St. Thomas for a degree in mathematics next year. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I know how hard the farmers work to produce our very important dairy products. The products are nutritious and my family and I are proud of what we do. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? To be a successful dairy farmer, you have to take good care of your cows. Healthy cows are productive. Not only do they have to take care of the cows, they also have to take care of their land. Dairy farmers love what they do, and work hard to produce safe and healthy products.

Mower County Parents: Marlin and Diane Fay Town: Grand Meadow What is your current status? I am a senior at Grand Meadow High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I help my dad on the farm whenever he needs it. Some of my responsibilities include Abbie Fay, 18 locking up cows, feeding Dairy Star Sponsor: calves and moving cows. I Land O’Lakes plan on attending RochesMelrose, MN ter Community and Tech320-256-1922 nical College next year. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me because the dairy industry is shrinking and by growing up on a dairy farm, I feel responsible to inform people about it. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say dairy farmers are well known for taking very good care of their animals and their products because if they don’t it will only hurt them. Mower County continued on next page

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Parents: Randy and Valerie Smith Town: Adams What is your current status? I am a senior at Southland High School and working on our home farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. We milk around 230 Holstein dairy cattle. We have a double-eight step up parlor and our milk is sold Callie Jo Smith, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: to Land O’Lakes. My reLand O’Lakes sponsibilities include milkMelrose, MN ing on the weekends, when 320-256-1922 I don’t have school, and feeding all of the calves in the morning. I will be attending the University of Minnesota in the fall to major in agriculture education with a minor in animal science. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Our industry is facing some challenges. It is important to be a dairy princess to represent the dairy farmers in my county because we are always striving to educate the non-farm public about the health and nutritional benefits of dairy products as well as the commitment farmers have to producing quality products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would respond to the consumers by telling them all the practices we use in our industry are first and foremost for the health and safety of our animals. Dairy farmers do their best job to provide the consumer with a safe, healthy and wholesome product. We are dependent on our animals because they provide for our income and lifestyle.

that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? At my family’s farm, everything revolves around our animals. They are our livelihood, our way of life and are treated with the upmost respect. Nothing happens until the animals get fed in the morning and settled in at night. The dairy industry is constantly coming out with new medicines, milking technology and feed mixtures to keep the animals as fit as we can. This may mean hiring a nutritionist or keeping a vet on speed dial. As for the environment, I would explain that dairy farmers have the same concern for caring for it as everyone else. This is because dairy farmers and their families live on or near the land of their farm. We understand the importance of protecting our natural recourses because we would like to see our dairy farms go on for many more generations. There is a duty in presenting a safe and wholesome product when producing milk.

Parents: Dan and Shelley Schugel Town: New Ulm What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at Winona State University in Winona, Minn., majoring in nursing. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am an 18-year-old from New Ulm, Minn., Danielle and a 2009 graduate from New Ulm High School. I Schugel, 18 am currently a freshman at Dairy Star Sponsor: Winona State. On our dairy AMPI - New Ulm farm, my family milks 35 Division Holsteins on 300 acres and New Ulm, MN grows alfalfa, wheat, oats, www.ampi.com corn and soybeans. My future plans are to pursue a career in nursing and become a pediatric nurse in the Twin Cities area. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It’s important to me to be a dairy princess for Nicollet County because I enjoy educating others on how important dairy products are to maintain a healthy diet. I also like to inform people on the dairy industry and the important things that are happening around it. I want to represent the farmers because they don’t always get the credit they deserve. A lot of people don’t know how much time and hard work is involved in being a dairy farmer. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers work hard every day to bring fresh and wholesome milk products to consumers. This work begins on the farm with top-quality animal care. A cow must be well cared for in order to be a healthy milk producer. As a dairy farmer myself, I personally know the hard work that goes into keeping fresh food, water and a clean living environment for the cattle. Since a farmer’s income depends on healthy animals, raising healthy livestock is good business for dairy farmers to ensure that the best quality milk is provided.

Murray County

Parents: Joe and Shaunda Weidert Town: Iona What is your current status? I am a junior at Minnesota State University-Moorhead. I am working on a degree in graphic communication and a minor in graphic design. I also work at Kohl’s in Fargo in the shoe department. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Stephanie and/or work on, and your future plans. I have lived Weidert, 20 on a farm all my life. I am Dairy Star Sponsor: proud to be a part of my Gorter’s Clay & Dairy family’s third-generation Equipment dairy. At my parents farmPipestone, MN site, we raise the replace507-825-3271 ment heifers for my grandparents’ dairy, Weidert Dairy. I have three younger siblings who also help on the farm: Josh, Jerod, and Courteney. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important because nearly 98 percent of the U.S. population does not live on a farm. Because of this, there is a considerable amount of knowledge that is not reaching the youth of our country about where their food is being produced. By talking to the children of my county, I hope to inform them about how milk and other dairy products are produced. Thereby helping them to make informed decisions when it comes to the dairy foods they eat. They can use that knowledge and apply it when they become adults and are purchasing dairy foods for their families. Also, by informing the children in the classroom about dairy products and giving them information to take home to share with their parents and siblings, knowledge about the dairy industry will spread further than the classroom. What would you say to convince consumers

Nicollet County Parents: Steve and Kathy Herberg Town: St. Peter What is your current status? I am currently a junior at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities majoring in animal science-dairy production with a minor in applied economics. I work on my family’s dairy and grain operation on most weekends. On campus, I am involved in the Gopher Dairy Megan Herberg, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: Club, Block and Bridle and Lambda Delta Phi Soror- Farmer’s Elevator of Traverse ity. Traverse, MN Tell us about your507-931-2112 self, the farm you live and / or work on, and your future plans. I was blessed with the opportunity to grow up on a fourth generation family farm where we currently milk about 60 Holsteins and farm about 900 acres of corn and soybeans. Upon graduating from the U of M next May, I plan to enter the dairy industry in a herdsperson position until I am able to return to the home farm full time. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Dairy farmers create an enormous amount of economic activity for our county and state and I believe it is absolutely imperative to have good spokespeople promoting our product to the public. I feel it is important for me to use my knowledge and speaking skills to share our story and the importance of dairy in the diet with consumers. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? As dairy farmers, we depend on our cows for our livelihood. The more comfortable they are, the more profitable they will be. So it only makes sense that we as farmers make sure the cows receive the absolute best care possible. The milk we provide to consumers is the same milk our families enjoy, so you can be sure we only present the market with products of the highest quality.

Starbucks® uses 2 percent of the nation’s milk in their growing coffee drink business.

Parents: Steve and Deb Sjostrom Town: Lafayette What is your current status? I am currently a sophomore attending the University of MinnesotaCarlson School of Management in the Twin Cities. While studying is my main consumption of time, I also work two jobs, one as a student worker for the Center for Youth DevelopMegan ment assisting the 4-H director, and the second as Sjostrom, 20 an intramural volleyball Dairy Star Sponsor: referee which I have re- Bongards’ Creameries cently been promoted to a Bongards, MN supervisor. This summer I 952-466-5521 will be the 4-H Facilities Coordinator where I will hire and manage all 200 employees at the State Fair. I am involved with intramural sports playing on two different leagues of volleyball. I am also involved in the Carlson School Business Board committee where I help make events happen on campus. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a family dairy farm near Lafayette, Minn. We milk about 100 Holstein cows, while raising the calves and steers as well as farming 750 acres of many different crops. I am majoring in marketing with a minor in design. I intend to use my knowledge of the dairy and agriculture industry by finding a job designing and marketing the packaging of food products to consumers. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your counNicollet County continued on next page

Nicollet County continued

ty? I feel it is important to promote what you believe in. Growing up on a dairy farm is hard work, but I have learned a lot from the experience. My dad is the person I admire the most, and his work has made me feel it is important to promote the dairy industry and the wholesome products we make! I know I have a lot I can share with others. I have also seen how beneficial and necessary the product we produce is for consumers. Finally, I feel serving as a dairy princess will help me become a better communicator. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a sale and healthy product? Most dairy farmers live and work on their farms. It’s important to them to protect the land, water and air for their animals, families and the surrounding communities for future generations. The dairy farmer and industry also take safety and healthy products seriously. Throughout the years, dairy farmers and processors have worked closely with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state regulatory officials to establish safety regulations and practices. As a result, American milk and dairy products are among the safest and most highly regulated foods in the world.

Parents: Paul and Cindy Swenson Town: Nicollet What is your current status? I am currently in my second semester at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities majoring in animal science with an emphasis in pre-veterinary medicine. This coming fall, I hope to pick up a minor in business management. Since the beginning of this year, I have also been Ashley Swenson, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: fortunate enough to work First District in the veterinary science Association building under the direcLitchfield, MN tion of swine pathologist, 320-693-3236 Dr. Michael Murtaugh. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? My family and I own a farm of 200 registered Holstein cows; I am proud to be the sixth generation of our family’s operation. We also calve all of our heifers and cycle them into the milking herd, as well as raise and sell breeding bulls. Within the next 10 years, my goal is to have completed my undergraduate and professional schooling. From there, I would like to start my own food and companion animal practice. Don’t worry. I haven’t forgotten about expanding my ownership in registered dairy cattle. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? As a dairy princess and proud dairy farmer, I know promoting our wholesome product and unwavering ideals at the county, state, national and international levels are vital to the dairy industry’s success. The impact the dairy industry has on stability of our economy, is equally important to the health benefits each consumer receives. In trying times, it is important to show the world dairy farmers’ passion to provide high quality products and integrity in their day to day endeavors both in the barn and as stewards of the land. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? An unknown author once said, “There’s a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in doing something, you do it only when circumstances permit. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.” Just the same, the proud dairy farmers of this state and nation do not accept anything but the highest quality food and shelter for the animals of their livelihood. In return, cows are able to produce a wholesome, health, nutrient packed product for people of all ages to enjoy. Likewise, we must give just as much care to the environment and those who live in it, if we care to see results not only now, but for generations to come.

Nobles County Parents: Craig and Lana Wieneke Town: Leota What is your current status? I am a senior at Edgerton Public School. I work on the Mark and Amy VanEssen family dairy farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I work for Mark and Amy VanEssen on their 110-cow dairy Keela Wieneke, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: farm. In the fall, I will attend Iowa State University Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment in Ames, Iowa for dairy Pipestone, MN science. After I finish my 507-825-3271 undergraduate degree, I would like to apply to the veterinarian school to be a large animal veterinarian. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? As a dairy princess, I am able to attend various events throughout the county. At those events I spread the word about the dairy industry. I also get people more involved with the dairy industry. With more people involved in the dairy industry, it will continue to grow. As the industry grows it will produce more job opportunities and possibly provide a job for me when I am done with school. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farming is an around-the-clock job. The cows don’t have weekends or holidays off and neither does the farmer. Every day, farmers milk, feed, bed and provide health care needed for the cows. It is the farmer’s job to provide conditions for the cows to produce to their fullest ability. Not only do farmers have to care for the cows but also all the equipment involved in the process of caring for the cows. All this work guarantees the safety of the milk products that are sent to your local stores.

Olmsted County Parents: Ron and Michelle Heins Town: Eyota What is your current status? I’m a senior at Dover-Eyota High School. In the fall I plan to attend Northeast Iowa Community College in Calmar, Iowa for dairy science. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I’m involved in 4-H, FFA and the Min- Alana Joy Heins, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: nesota Brown Swiss AsPlainview Milk sociation. I enjoy showing Products cattle at fairs and shows, Plainview, MN and meeting people in the 800-356-5601 dairy industry. My parents own and operate a 200cow dairy with 95 percent of the cows being Registered Brown Swiss. My future plans are to graduate from college with a dairy science and ag business degree, then come back to my parents farm. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to be a dairy princess and represent my county because I want to educate the public on what dairy farmers are really doing on their farms. I find that our county is very fortunate to have a larger city, such as Rochester, to be able to communicate to a larger group of people. We need to allow people who have a disconnection to the farm to be able to have the correct knowledge of what we do as dairy farmers and why we do it. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers are the

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Olmsted County continued

people who care the most about the welfare of the animals, and how they are being treated and cared for. If dairy producers did not care about the health of their animals, there would not be a healthy product for the consumers to buy. We strive to find the safest ways to produce the products for the consumers. Dairy farmers are caring and compassionate, especially when it comes to our animals.

Parents: Bob and Barb Petit Town: Plainview What is your current status? I am a senior at Plainview-Elgin-Millville High School where I have been active in soccer, wrestling stats, musicals, track and field, FFA, NHS, band, choir, and 4-H. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a Kelsey Petit, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: 160-acre dairy farm where Plainview Milk we milk about 60 cows. Products My very first responsibility Plainview, MN was putting a cup full of 800-356-5601 calf starter in the buckets as my mom fed calves. Now I am responsible for feeding the calves and making sure they have a comfortable living space. The calves are the future of our herd, and I take great pride in my responsibility to get them off to a great start. I also monitor when cattle need to be moved to the dry cow and then pre-fresh pens. This fall I will be attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities majoring in agricultural education. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is an honor to represent the hard working, dedicated dairy farmers of the county. It is a great opportunity to deliver the message to have three serving every day of great tasting dairy products. Dairy farmers, like my family, take great pride in bringing the best and safest products to the table. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? The dairy farmer’s ultimate goal is to produce wholesome, nutritious products for the consumer. We do this by providing a well balanced diet, comfortable surroundings, plenty of rest and care for our animals so they are at their prime. The cattle are the farmers most valuable possession. We treat our cows like part of our family; we work with our cows every day as part of our livelihood. Water and land quality are also important resources to the farmer because they ensure high quality crops for their animals.

Parents: Edward and Sherri Twohey Town: Stewartville What is your current status? I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota majoring in agricultural education with a minor in leadership and animal science. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 200-cow dairy farm with my fam- Theresa Twohey, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: ily. I am the oldest of five siblings. We milk grade All American Co-op Stewartville, MN and registered Holsteins. I 888-354-4058 hope to one day work in ag communications because I love sharing my knowledge and passion with others. I want to get a job in public relations for a dairy company so I can continue to be involved with the dairy industry. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your counOlmsted County continued on next page

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East Otter Tail County continued

West Otter Tail County continued

ty? It is important to be a dairy princess because there is a lack of knowledge about the dairy industry. Most consumers are at least three generations removed from the farm and lack a basic understanding of agriculture. Being a dairy princess provides me with the opportunity to educate the public on the dairy industry and the benefits of consuming dairy products. It is important for a dairy princess to represent the farmers in her county so their side of the story can be heard as well as their message. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say taking care of the animals and the environment is a number one priority for farmers. Many new methods and types of technology are being implemented everyday. Routine vet visits are scheduled so farmers ensure their animals are getting the best care possible. New advances in technology help the farmer protect the land they love. Farmers have a great passion for their animals and the land they live on and are very proud of the wholesome product they provide.

hope to someday be a flight nurse. I will continue to support the dairy industry. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I am very excited to be able to serve East Ottertail County. By being dairy princess, I hope to teach consumers that the milk, cheese and other dairy products do not just come from the grocery store. Dairy farmers are busy each day producing their favorite milk product. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? The dairy farmers need to take good care of the land, animals and their equipment not just for good business. Poor land and sick cows will not produce the crops or milk which the dairy farmer needs for his or her livelihood. Dairy farmers take pride in what they do for a living. Healthy cows and well managed land reflect who they are and what they are passionate for and that is dairy farming. Dairy farmers and their families are consumers of their own products. Milk is one of the most regulated foods that consumers can buy. Consumers can rest easy knowing that their dairy products are safe. Milk and other dairy products are packed full of essential nutrients that your body needs for normal function.

what you do today affects the outcome of tomorrow’s labor. This education and inspiration to promote and serve the dairy industry has truly been influenced by my father along with many of other local dairy farmers. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I find the role of dairy princess to be important because it encourages the goodness of the dairy industry, educates its rewarding facts and opportunities to both urban and local areas, and recognizes farmers from West Otter Tail County for an outstanding attitude to love and cherish their line of work. This is something I wish to promote. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? In convincing consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product, farmers are consciously working to obtain the highest level of health for the animal, the environment and consumers. Most modern day farmers have installed a “free-stall housing” where cows can roam freely eating and sleeping to their desire. Also, for example, on Clearview Dairy Farm there is a nutritionist who oversees the daily intake of an animal. This not only benefits the health of a cow, but to those of society. Proper nutrition reduces the amount of methane that could interrupt the quality of air in a community. The ability to ensure the health of an animal and the environment goes hand in hand. Also, the farmer does a great deal of preventative work with veterinary care along with following FDA guidelines. For instance, keeping milk free from antibiotics ensures a great healthy product. Finally, keep note that farmers as well consumers are buying these products with the intention of receiving great tasting, wholesome products. The few things listed above only show a fraction of the commitment that farmers contribute for the health of a product.

East Otter Tail County

Parents: Steve and Bonnie Hendrickx Town: New York Mills What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at St. Cloud State University, pursuing a degree in nursing. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family owns and operates a dairy farm near Butler, where we milk 125 Stephanie cows. On the farm, I milk cows, move cattle, feed Hendrickx, 19 calves, and help whenever Dairy Star Sponsor: Dad asks. My future plans AMPI - Paynesville are to finish school at St. Division Cloud State University and Paynesville, MN become a registered nurse www.ampi.com close to home. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess is important to me because it represents what my parents do, and I am proud of them and support them. By being a dairy princess, I can emulate all the traits that signify what it means to be a dairy farmer. These traits include hardwork, dedication, responsibility, and compassion. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals because dairy cows must be healthy in order to produce pure, wholesome milk. Dairy farmers depend on healthy cows for their livelihood. Dairy producers are also committed to caring for the environment because they depend on the land for their quality of life and business.

Parents: Randy and Carol Thompson Town: New York Mills What is your current status? I am currently a junior at Jamestown College in North Dakota. I am attending Jamestown College for my register nurse degree. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a dairy farm in New York Mills, where my family milks 40 cows. I am so privileged to have the experience of growing up on a dairy farm. My future plans are to finish my schooling in May 2011. I

Sada Thompson, 21 Dairy Star Sponsor: Dairy Farmers of America Zumbrota, MN 507-732-8890

West Otter Tail County

Parents: Al and Jean Boyum Town: Battle Lake What is your current status? I am a freshman at Concordia College, Moorhead and am currently undecided in my major of choice. I know, however, that the major I choose will influence the quality of life for people physically and emotionally. Some of my possible major choices include psychology, social Kristin Boyum, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: work, and chiropractic. At Ashby Elevator Concordia, I am involved Ashby, MN with the track and field 218-747-2948 program, and running the pentathlon. While administering a full time course load, I spend an average of three hours per week volunteering at the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Fargo, North Dakota. Some hobbies of mine include: playing the piano, wake boarding, traveling, discovering Fargo- Moorhead’s attractions, and hanging out with friends and family. I have served as the President, Vice President and Secretary for the Eagle Lake 4-H group. Through this program I have also had the opportunity to be involved competitions like fashion revue, food revue, demonstrations, showing dairy cattle at West Otter Tail’s County Fair and working in the food stand. One of my most memorable moments that I can take away from my engagement in 4-H is the Citizen Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C. I have gained lifelong skills for leadership, making lifelong friends while becoming knowledgeable of Washington and the various historical sites. Not only did the event strengthen my leadership abilities, but I was able to create relationships and stay in contact with peers from a tri-state area. My future plans are to graduate from college, gain valuable cultural expertise within my major through traveling, to eventually, be married, have children and be placed back in a rural town much like the one I grew up in. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/ or work on, and your future plans. I was raised on what is now a 135 head dairy farm: Clearview Dairy Farm. This farm has been in the Boyum family since 1955 starting out with a herd size of about 20. Looking back on my opportunity to be raised on a rural dairy farm has been a tremendous experience for me. Understanding the process and the workmanship that a family can put forth to create an outstanding product is something that every family based farm should be proud of. Through my experience, I have learned that

Parents: Kevin and Marcia Aasness Town: Fergus Falls What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Underwood High School and will be graduating this May. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on the family farm, four miles south of Underwood, Minn., with my parents, Kevin Kayla Aasness, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: and Marcia Aasness, and Dairy Farmers of my three siblings, Krista, America Kenzie, and Krosby. I am Zumbrota, MN actively involved with the 507-732-8890 daily farm chores, such as feeding and watering the cows and calves, and taking care of all of the livestock. I plan on attending Association Free Lutheran Bible School in Plymouth, Minn. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to represent West Otter Tail County as dairy princess because it would be a great opportunity and experience to promote the dairy industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy cows must be healthy and well cared for to produce pure, wholesome milk. Dairy farmers depend on healthy cows for their livelihood. Animals need a nutritious diet, veterinary care, and healthy living conditions. Dairy farmers live on the land and understand the importance of protecting the environment. They depend on the land for business and quality of life.

Pipestone County

Pope County

Parents: Linda and Dave Brockberg Town: Pipestone What is your current status? I am a senior in Elkton, SD. I work at Ashton Care Center as a CNA. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a dairy farm northwest of Pipestone. We have approximately 70 milking Katie cows. I enjoy helping out on the farm, especially Brockberg, 18 with the bottle fed calves. Dairy Star Sponsor: In the fall, I plan on attend- Gorter’s Clay & Dairy ing DWU in Mitchell, SD Equipment for nursing. Pipestone, MN Why is it important 507-825-3271 to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important so I can help the livelihood of dairy farmers and help promote the dairy industry. I do believe that the product we produce is a very healthy and safe product. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? The dairy farmers care about their animals because their living depends on it. If you have healthy animals and environment, you’ll have a safe and healthy product.

Parents: David and Dawn Thompson Town: Starbuck What is your current status? I am currently a sophomore at the University of MN- Twin Cities. I am majoring in agricultural education and minoring in applied economics and communications. This summer I will be working at the Starbuck Dairy Queen as the manager and working at home on my famLaura ily’s 60-cow dairy farm. Tell us about yourself, Thompson, 20 the farm you live and/or Dairy Star Sponsor: work on, and your future Bongards’ Creameries plans. I’m the youngest of Bongards, MN five girls. I grew up on a six952-466-5521 generation dairy farm near First District Starbuck. My family milks Association 60 registered and grade HolLitchfield, MN steins. We run about 800 crop 320-693-3236 acres including corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and wheat. Being involved in the dairy industry makes me proud because of its powerful influence on people’s lives. In my future, I plan to find a career where I use my knowledge, pride, and leadership of the dairy industry. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess is a very important job so that I can educate the people in my county and everywhere about the importance of the dairy industry and dairy products. As a county dairy princess, I have the opportunity to prove to consumers just how important it is to drink three glasses of milk everyday and to share with them new and exciting ways to incorporate other dairy products into their diets. Educating kids is essential so that they learn about the importance of dairy products and get the recommended amounts of dairy products. Dairy farmers work very hard each and every day of their lives to take care of their cows so that they can make a healthy and nutritious product for their consumers. Milk with its calcium, phosphorus vitamins A, B, and D really is nature’s most perfect food. The more people who can be educated about the dairy industry the better because it will help the industry grow and expand. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Every day dairy farmers get up early to ensure their cows get milked at the right time. They clean the manure out of the stalls in the barn, and ensure that they get fed a balanced diet of food that is going to help them stay healthy and be well nourished. It’s very important for dairy farmers to keep the equipment in the barn very clean and sanitary, so they can get paid for the milk they provide. Dairy farming is a business and a lifestyle. A dairy farmer’s main priority is to care for his cows and his land. It’s important to be environmentally friendly and use natural resources as efficiently as possible, to ensure that the cows are getting the best, most nutrient-rich feed.

Parents: Steve and Marla Viland Town: Pipestone What is your current status? I am a senior in high school. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my family’s century farm, Iland-Acre Holsteins. I have been showing cattle since I was Meg Viland, 18 5 years old. We have about Dairy Star Sponsor: 70 milking Holsteins. I also raise a herd of rabbits. Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment In school I am involved in Pipestone, MN band, cross country, track, 507-825-3271 and FFA. I have been heavily involved in 4-H for ten years. I have shown dairy at the Minnesota State Fair for three years. I plan to attend South Dakota State University this fall. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I support the dairy industry with all my heart and have a strong desire to get the message across that something as simple as drinking milk every day and getting enough exercise can give you stronger bones and muscles. I also decided to take my senior pictures with a calf because of my love of dairying. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would inform them that anti-animal programs provide the public with inaccurate information. Dairy producers have to be extremely dedicated to succeed at what they do and they care about how they produce their products.

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Redwood County continued

Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? The most important thing to me is to represent all the dairy farms throughout the country. One major thing is that slowly the dairy farms are becoming less and we need to represent the ones who are still standing strong even in this economy. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? The number one thing that dairy farmers look at is keeping their herds healthy and comfortable so they produce more milk. The dairy farmers also look at recycling manure by putting it on their fields. Manure is safer for the environment since it’s a natural product.

Parents: Dennis and Jane Plaetz Town: Lucan What is your current status? I am a sophomore at the College of Saint Scholastica in Duluth, Minn. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a farm north of Lucan, Minn., with my parents and two older sisters. My dad milks about 40 cows, and also has young- Jennifer Plaetz, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: stock. Whenever I am home, I help my parents with chores, Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment including feeding calves, Pipestone, MN cleaning up the barn, grinding 507-825-3271 up feed and finding medicine. Next fall, I plan to apply for the physical therapy program at the College of St. Scholastica where I will graduate with a doctorate in physical therapy. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It’s important for me to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in my county because there are not many dairy farms left in our area. Now that I have left home to go to college and have been around people who have never seen a dairy farm who ask if we milk by hand, it makes me realize how much people don’t know about dairy farms. It takes a lot of hard work, patience and time. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals because they are the key ingredient. If we don’t treat our animals or their environment well, the cows are not going to produce as much as they can. That affects us greatly. We need to make sure they have certain vaccinations so they can stay healthy. Dairy producers provide a clean and safe environment for the animals so they can stay healthy and produce high-quality milk.

Redwood County

Renville County

Parents: Bruce and Sherry Plaetz Town: Wabasso What is your current status? I am currently working for Gordman’s. This May I am graduating with an architectural construction engineering technology with an Associate’s degree in applied science. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. This summer Amanda Plaetz, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: I am planning on moving home and helping out with Gorter’s Clay & Dairy Equipment the dairy. I will be able to Pipestone, MN help with everything from 507-825-3271 milking cows to working out in the fields. I am hoping to find a job in drafting in the field of my degree.

Parents: James Kanne and Mary Sullivan Town: Franklin What is your current status? I am currently a freshman communication studies major at South Dakota State University in Brookings. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a 50 cow Holstein dairy farm outside of Franklin, Kathryn Kanne, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: Minn. I am now employed at the SDSU research dairy Renville County ADA farm near Brookings, S.D. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy Renville County continued on next page

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Rice County continued

farmers in your county? I feel that being a dairy princess is important because it gives me an opportunity to share with people my love and enthusiasm for the great industry I am part of and its products. I can help give the dairy farmers of our community the recognition they need and deserve for all the hard work they do for our state. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers work hard everyday 24/7 to bring to our community wholesome dairy products. While caring for their animals, they care for the environment by using safe methods of waste management and smart farming techniques. Keeping their cows healthy is their main priority and the result is a great product that everyone can enjoy.

fall and majoring in accounting. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I believe dairy farmers are a major importance to the community because of what they produce. They do not just produce milk but everything that is made from milk. Dairy is an important part of our diet. The only natural form of calcium found in nature is milk. If dairy farmers stopped, there would be no milk or milk related products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are proud of the milk they produce. They take pride in their animals. By taking them to fairs and showing them, we are able to see how proud they are of their animals. There is always a competition between producers to have the most and best milk around.

it is my responsibility to inform people, not just of the benefits of the products, but also tell them about how dairy cows are cared for and that there is no other product as wholesome as milk. I am proud my family is part of the people behind the product and being a dairy princess is one way to show my pride. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell consumers how often dairy farms are inspected by state and federal inspectors. These inspectors check for the cleanliness of the pipelines in the barn, the cleanliness of the milking equipment and the cleanliness of the milk storage facilities. The facility where the milk is sent is also inspected. Farmers know that a happy cow will produce more milk. Since cows are farmers’ livelihoods, they treat them well and make sure they are healthy and happy. I would also mention that there are many guidelines and regulations that farmers have to follow to help protect the environment.

Parents: James Kanne and Mary Sullivan Town: Franklin What is your current status? I am a freshman student at Minnesota State University, Moohead. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a 50 cow dairy farm just north of Franklin. I am currently attending school at MSU, Meg Kanne, 18 Moorhead where I am purDairy Star Sponsor: suing a degree in art with a graphic communication Renville County ADA minor. My future plans, as of now, include finishing college and finding a job in my area of interest. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Growing up on a farm gave me a firsthand experience of this industry and the good it does for our county and state. Most people, however, are not directly exposed to dairy farming and don’t realize its value to them personally. As a dairy princess, I am given the opportunity to help promote a positive image for the dairy farmers of my area, as well as farmers in general. Also, I get to help inform people of all ages about the benefits of milk and how a dairy operation is run. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would use my personal experience as an example and explain that farmers care for their animals and land because in turn the animals and land care for them by growing healthy crops and producing wholesome products. Our land is our future and farmers know this more intimately perhaps than most people as they fight to maintain its fertility. They do this not only to help take good care of their animals but also to harvest a healthy product, safe for human consumption and viable for use in bio-fuels, like ethanol.

Parents: Leon and Lisa Radtke Town: Cosmos What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Buffalo Lake- Hector High School and will graduate in June. I work for my parents on our family farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I have two brothers and one sister. My Rebecca Radtke, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: parents raise heifers for my uncle who owns a dairy Hutchinson Co-op Hutchinson, MN farm with 200 milk cows. 1-800-795-1299 We are also crop farmers and grow corn, soybeans, Renville County ADA and alfalfa. I plan on attending Southwest Minnesota State University in the

Rice County

Parents: Ray and Bridget Pieper Town: New Prague What is your current status? I am a senior at Montgomery-Lonsdale Public High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live and work on my parents’ dairy farm where we milk 300 cows two times a day. On the farm I milk the cows, Maria Pieper, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: feed calves and do other Land O’Lakes barn chores. This fall, I Melrose, MN plan to attend Bemidji 320-256-1922 State University for nursing. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? The dairy farming business is very important to my life; it made me who I am. I became a dairy princess to show my support for all dairy farmers and to educate the public of the importance of dairy products in a diet. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are definitely committed to caring for their animals and the environment because farming takes more than just milking cows; it takes pride in who we are and what we do. Parents: Ron and Diane Wegner Town: Faribault What is your current status? I am just completing my first year at South Dakota State University where I am majoring in agronomy. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a third generation dairy farm Brianna that milks about 50 cows. When I am home from colWegner, 18 lege, I mix the feed for the Dairy Star Sponsor: cows and heifers and feed Issacson Implement the calves. I plan to get Nerstrand, MN my Bachelor’s degree in 507-334-4059 agronomy then go to grad AgStar Financial school. I would also like 866-577-1831 to spend a few years in the Peace Corps. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Even with the ‘Got Milk’ and ‘Body by Milk’ campaign, people don’t realize the importance and benefits of milk. Being from a dairy farm, I feel

Rock County

Parents: Wayne Brands and Dawn Gunsalus Town: Luverne What is your current status? I am a freshman at North Dakota State University in Fargo. I work at the Mary Jane Brown Home and my dad’s farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I have been working on my dad’s Katelyn Ann farm since a young age. My duties included feedBrands, 18 ing calves and milking. We Dairy Star Sponsor: have 60 head of cattle. I Gorter’s Clay & Dairy plan to major in nursing at Equipment NDSU; after graduating, I Pipestone, MN want to live on an acreage 507-825-3271 where my dad can house some of his calves so I can stay connected with the dairy industry while being a nurse. I will also plan to help dad whenever he needs my help. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me because in a lot of our counties, dairymen and women do not get the recognition they deserve. All dairymen and women are hard workers, and some people do not realize how hard we work to maintain a healthy and clean workplace so our product is as safe and healthy as possible for our society. I am proud of growing up on a dairy farm. I love the experiences I have gained through living on a farm, and I love sharing those experiences with people who do not get that opportunity. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers work 24/7. We do not get sick or vacation days nor do we receive financial bonuses every Christmas. What we get out of our dairy animals, we also put back into them to ensure our product is as safe and healthy as possible. This gives us an incentive to do our best towards our animals and products. We take pride in our work and animals, and the only way to keep it that way is to have a paycheck from safe and healthy products.

There are more than 60,000 dairy farms in America.

Sibley County

Parents: Jim and Jody Oelfke Town: Hamburg What is your current status? Currently I am a senior at Central High School, Norwood Young America. I am employed at a local community center and a home décor store. I also milk cows and feed calves on our farm when not working elsewhere. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live Janet Oelfke, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: and/or work on, and your State Bank of future plans. My family Hamburg and I reside on our century Hamburg, MN dairy farm in Hamburg. 952-467-2992 We milk about 190 registered Jerseys. While keeping busy with the dairy industry, we also have our own cash crop business. My parents, three siblings and I all do our part to make sure everything runs efficiently. Whether it begins with feeding calves, mixing feed, or milking cows; we understand that every aspect is important to insure that our animals are healthy and well cared for. In the fall of 2010, I will be attending North Dakota State University and my intended major is nursing. I believe this is my opportunity to relay to children the importance of maintaining a well-balanced diet with three servings or more of dairy every day to keep our bodies strong and healthy. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me because I know how hard dairy farmers work every day to provide consumers with safe, high quality milk and other dairy products. That is why it is my privilege to be an ambassador for an industry I so strongly believe. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and environment while providing a safe and healthy product by having their animals regularly cared for by veterinarians. Dairy farmers also depend on the land for their business and quality of life therefore they understand the importance of protecting the natural resources.

Parents: Ken and Gwen Wendinger Town: Arlington What is your current status? I am a freshman at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, Minn. I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in ag business, concentrating in finance. Eventually, I would like to become an ag loan officer. Tell us about yourRoseAnn self, the farm you live and/or work on, and your Wendinger, 18 future plans. I live with Dairy Star Sponsor: my parents on our 80-cow Bongards’ Creameries dairy farm. I help my parBongards, MN ents with milking when952-466-5521 ever my schedule permits. We are discussing with my five older brothers the future of our farm. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I am very passionate about the dairy industry. I love having the opportunity to represent such an amazing product and being able to educate consumers about the dairy industry and our wholesome products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? All dairy farmers care about their cows as well as the environment. Our dairy practices may differ, but we do everything we can to stay environmentally friendly while producing a healthy, wholesome and delicious product.

Stearns County

Parents: Craig and Cindy Achen Town: Sauk Centre What is your current status? I am a sophomore at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities majoring in animal science with a dairy industry emphasis. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family and I live and work on a 70-cow dairy farm where we milk Emily Achen, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: Brown Swiss, Holsteins Dairy Star and Milking Shorthorns. Sauk Centre, MN When I graduate, I hope 320-352-6303 to have a career where I can use my knowledge of the dairy industry and my communication skills. In the more distant future, I would like to own and operate a dairy farm and raise a family there. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Dairy farmers are extremely hard-working and dedicated to what they do. It is important for me as a dairy princess to make that connection with the general public about the nutritious products dairy farmers produce. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers understand the importance of animal welfare. They know if they take good care of their cows, their cows will take care of them and all of you – as consumers – by producing wholesome and nutritious milk. Parents: Cyril and Deb Felling Town: Sauk Centre What is your current status? I currently go to school at The Salon Professional Academy. I will graduate in May. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I have lived on the family farm my whole life. We milk 550 cows, and Jill Felling, 20 have around 1,200 acres. Dairy Star Sponsor: Later on, I hope to actuModern Farm ally own a salon near Sauk Equipment Centre. Sauk Centre, MN Why is it important to 320-352-6543 you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy Minnesota Veterinary farmers in your county? Associates I am very proud of the fact Melrose, MN that I have lived on a farm 320-256-4252 my whole life. There is so much to know about what goes on in the dairy industry, and I want to help spread that information to everyone. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? As farmers, it is our duty to assure our cows a healthy diet, and safe living arrangements. When cows are well cared for, we get the best quality milk we can offer to consumers. We also care for the land by recycling waste water and manure to irrigate and fertilize our fields. By using manure as a fertilizer, we increase our soil’s waterholding capacity by 20 percent, helping us use less groundwater.

Dairy Star • Saturday, May 8, 2010 • Page 19

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Parents: Dale and Corrine Hadrich Town: Holdingford What is your current status? I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota-Morris with a major in economics and a minor in management. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family owns a 100-head dairy farm just outside of Hold- Joylynn Hadrich, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: ingford, Minn. I am curHoldingford Mill rently attending college Holdingford, MN but still help on the farm 320-746-2281 on the weekends. I feed the calves, help milk cows and do other jobs on the farm. After graduating from college, I hope to find a job where I can help manage an agriculture related business or work as an agricultural lender in a rural town where I would get the opportunity to interact with farmers. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to be a dairy princess because without the farmers in my county I would never get the chance to meet and talk with so many consumers in Stearns County. I also feel it is important to be able to promote the hard work and dedication the farmers put into their land and animals to produce nutritional dairy products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers strive to provide a safe and healthy product through caring for their animals and the environment to ensure the longevity of agriculture in the state of Minnesota. This is accomplished by recycling waste on the farm, using organic fertilizer in the form of manure and ensuring animals receive clean water and healthy feeds to produce a healthy and safe product for everyone to consume.

Parents: Alvin and Bernie Holdvogt Town: New Munich What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at Bemidji State University. I am majoring in nursing with a minor in psychology. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a dairy farm south of Katherine New Munich owned by my parents, Alvin and Bernie Holdvogt, 18 Holdvogt. We farm about Dairy Star Sponsor: 300 acres and milk around Sauk Valley Veterinary 70 cows. My future plans Service are to graduate from BeSauk Centre, MN midji State with my BSN. 320-352-0060 I want to continue my education and become a certified nurse midwife. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to be a dairy princess because I want to represent an industry that is important to our world. The dairy industry is needed not just for Minnesota but also around the world. I have also seen how hard the farmers in my county work, and I want to represent them and all that they do every single day. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? For dairy producers, farming is more than just a job. It is their passion, their lifestyle. Each day dairy farmers strive to ensure that their animals are being treated with care by providing a clean, dry and well-lit housing area. Dairy producers ensure that their cows are comfortable and Stearns County continued on next page

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healthy by hiring veterinarians and nutritionists who help to look after the well being of the animals. By following different rules and regulations given by the EPA and by using water responsibly, dairy producers are also able to care for and keep our environment clean for future generations. Lastly, dairy farmers work hard to produce healthy, nutritious and safe dairy products. Milk contains nine essential vitamins and nutrients that our bodies need. Dairy farmers understand this and they take pride in knowing they are able to help Americans by providing them with safe and good tasting dairy products that they can enjoy every day.

Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Dairy farmers help our economy by producing a healthy and nutritious product. I would be honored to represent the hard working dairy farmers and share the great story of their product. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? It is in dairy producer’s best interest to care for his animals because a healthy cow is a profitable cow. Producing milk is their source of income, so farmers will go to great lengths to ensure that their animals, the environment, and the product is taken care of.

complishment is serving as the FFA chapter president. After I finish high school, I plan to continue my studies at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where I will pursue a degree in agricultural studies with a minor in dairy production. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess goes beyond wearing a crown and sash to me. The public needs to know that the farmers care about what the consumers think and their concerns on issues in the industry. They are the consumers of the wholesome nutrition product we, the farmers, produce. Being a dairy princess gives me the opportunity to discuss and promote all aspects of the dairy industry with the consumers and producers. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers are some of the best caretakers in the world. They care for their animals, land and family everyday. Dairy farmers want the best for their family and consumers. Consumers are one of the key elements in the industry. They buy our product, and we, the producers, do everything we can to produce a safe and healthy product for the consumers every day.

Parents: Joe Molitor and the late Shirley Molitor Town: Rockville What is your current status? I am currently going to school at Ridgewater College in Willmar, Minn., to pursue a degree in dairy management. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on a 300-head organic operation. We run about 1,400 Hannah Molitor, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: acres, in which 700 are pasture land as we have Champion Milking Systems a non-traditional grazing Albany, MN operation. After I gradu800-866-3098 ate from Ridgewater next spring, I plan on returning to the home farm, where I will take the position of becoming our full-time herdsman. I will be doing most of the breeding, doing the everyday cattle work, and as well as record keeping. After a few years, I’ll be looking into becoming a partner in the operation. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? The dairy industry is very personal to me, as I am on my way to be one of those amazing dairy producers. I love what I do. I love being the producer as well as having the chance to go out and promote the industry. I think it is very important educate the schools, as our youth is the future. A dairy princess is a goodwill ambassador for the dairy industry, which is an excellent role model for the youth. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are awesome caretakers of their land, as well as they care greatly for their animals. I can show this to the public is education. I can educate the public through many seminars and conventions as well as schools. I also can educate the general public by having open house “Day on the Farm” and invite the public out to the farm so they are able to see how well kept our farms are, and how well cared for the animals are.

Parents: Ron and Maureen Schaefer Town: Melrose What is your current status? I am a senior at Melrose Area High School. I help out part-time on the farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family and I live on a dairy farm south of New Munich. We milk 50 cows, and we farm 200 acres of land. My job is to feed calves, and I also do a little milking. I am involved in speech, musicals, and lectoring at church. I will be attending the University of St. Thomas and I plan to get a degree in communications.

Hannah Schaefer, 18

Dairy Star Sponsor: Ecker Feeds New Munich, MN 320-837-5249

Steele County

Parents: Mark and Sharon Arnold Town: Medford What is your current status? I am a freshman at the College of Saint Scholastica in Duluth, Minn. My intended major is occupational therapy with a minor in psychology and American Sign Language. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am honored to say Connie Arnold, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: my family farm is a cenBrynsaas Sales & tury farm; my siblings and Service I are the fifth generation to Decorah, IA farm it. We currently milk 563-382-4484 around thirty cows and we farm corn and soybeans. In my future, I plan to graduate from college, work as an occupational therapist and help out on the family farm. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being the Steele County Dairy Princess and representing the dairy farmers in my county is very important to me. To represent such a wonderful industry, such as the dairy industry, is an honor. Being a dairy princess means a lot to my family because I am not only representing my dairy farm, but I am also representing every dairy farmer. The one thing I enjoy the most about being a dairy farmer and a dairy princess is sharing my stories growing up on the farm to people who are not farmers. The stories are fun and educational for the other people. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy producers take pride in the products we produce and the products help people maintain a healthy lifestyle. We treat our animals as if they are our own family and work the land properly because we know we have to give it the best care so we can produce a healthy and safe product for our consumers.

Parents: Dan Enzenauer and Julie Benjamin Town: Ellendale What is your current status? I am currently a senior at NRHEG High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am proud to be a farmer’s daughter. I live to work with the farm animals, to care for and milk the dairy cows, and Vicki Enzenauer, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: to promote the dairy industry. I live on my family’s Dairyland Equipment Service grain and dairy farm near Plainview, MN Ellendale, Minn. In high 507-534-3161 school, my most prized ac-

Parents: Peter and Karen Kasper Town: Owatonna What is your current status? I am a senior at Owatonna High School and I take post secondary classes at Riverland College. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am an active member in 4-H and Stephanie FFA. I live on my family’s dairy farm with my older Kasper, 18 siblings, Tony and Caitlin, Dairy Star Sponsor: and my parents, where we AMPI - Rochester milk 280 Holstein and JerDivision sey cows. We milk cows Rochester, MN in our double-eight parlor. www.ampi.com My duties include milking cows, feeding calves and anything else that needs to be done around the farm. I will graduate in June and attend the University of Minnesota next fall majoring in agricultural education with a minor in ag business. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I believe everyone needs to be aware of where agricultural products come from. I live near an urban area and it is important to take opportunities that give the public the opportunity to learn about agriculture and to see the animals that produce the products. I have a passion for the dairy industry, which is carried out in my duties when I wear my crown and sash. I have pride in the industry that dairy farmers everywhere have helped to establish. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers treat their cows very well. If we care for our animals, they will give us quality, wholesome milk in return. Dairy producers are proud to showcase their animals at local, state and national levels. As we showcase our animals, it gives the public a chance to ask us questions about our cattle. It always makes me happy to hear the public taking interest in my animals and asking me any questions they may have. Our cows are healthy and happy because dairy farmers take pride in taking excellent care of our animals. Steele County continued on next page

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Swift County continued

Parents: Mary and Wade Schroeder Town: Owatonna What is your current status? I am a senior at Owatonna High School and take classes at Riverland Community College in Owatonna. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. In school I am involved in the newsSadie paper, and I am active in my church and 4-H. My Schroeder, 18 grandparents operate a Dairy Star Sponsor: small dairy farm, and my Wingert Sales & family and I help milk 30 Service Holsteins. Next fall I plan Plainview, MN to attend the University 507-534-4386 of Minnesota-Twin Cities where I will major in communications. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me that people know where their food comes from. Wholesome dairy foods are produced close to home. Also, as a vegetarian, I often encounter questions on the safety and well-being of the animals involved in dairy production. It is important to me that people know that dairy farmers are committed to the welfare of their animals. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are responsible caretakers of the land and their animals. Healthy animals and a clean environment are crucial to the livelihood of a dairy farmer.

often maintained by the farmer. By being caretakers of the land, dairy producers ensure the grain from the field is fed to the to the cows. This results in a high quality, nutritious and delicious product for you, the consumer, to enjoy.

Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? As a Swift County Dairy Princess, I plan to promote the dairy industry and educate consumers about wholesome dairy products at schools, banks, farm tours, and the Farm and Home Show. I want to develop strong relationships with people in our county, promote a positive image of the hard working farmers I represent, and help everyone learn about how we care for our cows while producing a nutritious, safe, dairy product. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? “A healthy cow is a happy cow.” Dairy farmers strive to provide cow comfort and proper nutrition to care for their dairy livestock from newborn calves to producing milk cows. Extreme care allows cows to produce a wholesome, great tasting product. Dairy farmers strive to produce quality, wholesome dairy products, while being good neighbors and environmentally friendly.

Parents: George and Karen VonRuden Town: Claremont What is your current status? I am a junior studying food science and animal science at the University of Minnesota. Outside of class, I work parttime at Land O’Lakes in Arden Hills as a research assistant in the Research and Development Division. Pamela Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or VonRuden, 21 work on, and your future Dairy Star Sponsor: plans. My family and I Northland Farm live and work on our farm Systems that has been in the family Owatonna, MN for 125 years. We milk 50 800-385-3911 Holstein and Brown Swiss cows in a tiestall barn. In addition to milking cows, we also run 400 acres of corn, alfalfa and soybeans. This summer I will be a quality assurance intern in the Feeds Division at Land O’Lakes. After graduation, I would like to work in a dairy manufacturing plant doing quality assurance. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? As a dairy princess, I am given the opportunity to reach out to consumers of all ages to educate them about the wonderful industry I represent. The pride dairy farmers have for our cows needs to be shared with the public. They need to know we treat our animals with respect so the cows can produce the wholesome, nutritious products they all enjoy. As an ambassador for the dairy industry, I will encourage the consumption of dairy products through showing the consumers the large variety of products that could easily fit into their daily diets. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers take pride in caring for their animals and the environment. Each day dairy producers work hand in hand with their animals to make sure they are healthy and able to produce high quality milk. In order to produce the milk, the cattle need to be fed. The grains and forages that are fed are produced in the fields, which are

Swift County

Parents: Kevin and Kim Voorhees Town: Benson What is your current status? I am currently an ag business major at Ridgewater College in Willmar. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My family owns a 240 cow dairy farm near Benson. We raise reChelsea placement heifers, finish the dairy steers, and have Voorhees, 20 a 70-head beef cow/calf Dairy Star Sponsor: operation. I have always Glacial Plains been involved with many Cooperative aspects of dairying. I have DeGraff, MN used my college education 320-843-5364 to further help my dad with the farm. At Ridgewater, I participate in PAS and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. I am also a member of the Ridgewater women’s basketball team. I plan to further my education at a four year college to complete my ag business degree. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I want to promote the dairy industry and present the benefits of including dairy products in your diet. I enjoy meeting consumers, while serving dairy products at banks, farm tours, Build-A-Berger, grocery stores, and the county fair. I use these opportunities to inform consumers about the nutritious, wholesome dairy products and tell them about the hard working farmers in the county that strive to produce these quality dairy products. I enjoy being a role model for children and teens, emphasizing the importance of dairy products as part of their diets. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are hard working people who put proper care of their cows as their top priority. Dairy farmers take great pride in maintaining cow comfort and health to produce wholesome, nutritious dairy products. Dairy farmers strive to produce a safe product, while caring for their cows and the land where this great lifestyle exists in harmony with the environment. Parents: Kevin and Kim Voorhees Town: Benson What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Hancock High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. Our dairy farm, Len Mar Farms, is located four miles south of Danvers. We milk 240 Kaylee cows. My favorite cow has helped me promote the Voorhees, 18 dairy industry by being a Dairy Star Sponsor: friendly cow that many Glacial Plains fairgoers have stopped to Cooperative pet at the county and state DeGraff, MN fairs. In 4-H, I enjoy show320-843-5364 ing dairy cattle and sheep. In FFA, I have served as chapter sentinel and vice president. I am on the general livestock judging team. I have attended the state and national conventions. At school, I participate in basketball, band, choir, student government, and an honor student. I plan to attend a four-year college to further my education in the ag industry.

Todd County

Parents: David and Shirley Hulinsky Town: Burtrum What is your current status? I currently attend Central Lakes College in Brainerd and serve as a Todd County Dairy Princess. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 300-acre dairy farm where my family and I proudly milk 60 cows. In high school, I was Tiffany Hulinsky, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: very active in FFA, National Honor Society, link crew and AMPI - Paynesville Division band. Out of school, I take Paynesville, MN part in club and county 4-H www.ampi.com events where I enjoy showing cows. In my spare time, I enjoy reading up on my dairy knowledge, scrapbooking and being outside. I would like to stay within the dairy industry in the future. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I wanted to run for dairy princess because I have a passion for the dairy industry and wish to share that passion with others. The dairy industry is vital to our local and state economy. It is important to get our message to the public so they, too, can understand the importance of the dairy industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers work hard each and everyday to take care of their animals that produce the delicious, nutritious and wholesome dairy products that we enjoy every day. We also need to take care of the environment in where we all live, for 98 percent of dairy farms in Minnesota are family-owned so we need to protect the environment for future generations. Parents: Paul and Bonnie Middendorf Town: Browerville What is your current status? I am a freshman at the University of Minnesota-Morris, working towards a degree in elementary education with a minor in sociology. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am 19 years old and am from Browerville. I live on a 60cow dairy farm. My future plans are to become an elementary teacher in a small town similar to the one I

Megan A. Middendorf, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: Nelson Creamery Association Nelson, MN 320-762-0115

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grew up in. I plan on living in the country, owning a small hobby farm and having a family. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to be a dairy princess because I find great pride in showing what dairy farming is all about. My family and I are dedicated to producing a wholesome and delicious product and find great joy in doing so. I am so honored to be able to represent the dairy farmers in my county because, as a community, we work hard to ensure the care for our animals, safety of our product, and love for the land we use. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are committed to caring for their animals because the animals are their job. Just like other occupations, farming comes with great responsibility, and to a farmer it is the care for their animals because if they didn’t they would get fired from their job, so to speak. The land they use is their home; it is where their animals graze and where their children play. Dairy producers depend on the environment and do their best to make sure the land is used and not damaged. The production of a safe and healthy product determines the outcome of a farmer’s job. They work their whole lives taking care of animals and the environment to ensure a product that is beneficial to everyone that consumes it.

Parents: Roy and Teresa Perish Town: Browerville What is your current status? I am a senior at Browerville High School. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. In school, I am involved in FFA, band, student council, peer helpers and three sports. Out of school, I am in 4-H and work at Subway. If I am Tracy Perish, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: not busy with those activiNelson Creamery ties, I am hanging with my Association friends, swimming or doNelson, MN ing chores. 320-762-0115 I live on a dairy farm east of Browerville. We milk around 50 cows, which includes Dutch mixes. I am going to St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minn., for physical therapy. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Being a dairy princess is very important to me because farmers need to get credit for all the work they do. They work 24/7 to make sure all the animals are well cared for. So, it’s my job to let the county know how hard the farmers work to make it possible and to help sell their dairy products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell them to go visit a dairy farm. They then could see how we farmers take pride in having healthy animals and a clean environment. We give our animals clean water and have them on a diet that keeps them healthy and happy. Our land is kept clean from chemicals and anything else harmful, so it can be passed on to the next generations. “A happy cow is a happy farmer.”

Parents: Dean and Lois Klein Town: Lake City What is your current status? I am a freshman at Rochester Community and Technical College. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on a 345-Holstein dairy farm near Lake City. My main responsibilities include feeding and taking care Nicole Klein, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: of the calves. I have exPlainview Milk panded my knowledge of Products the dairy industry by bePlainview, MN ing involved in 4-H, FFA, 800-356-5601 and being a member of our county dairy cattle judging and quiz bowl teams. After I finish school, I hope to become a child life specialist and continue to be involved in the dairy industry. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Since I was young, I always dreamed of being a dairy princess. I always looked up to the dairy princesses at local appearances. When my sister was a dairy princess and a Princess Kay runner up, I knew I wanted to be just like her when I got the chance. It is essential for people to know about the importance of getting 3-A-Day of dairy and to also know about the dairy industry. There are so many people who do not know about the basic things in the dairy industry, like where dairy products come from. I am an advocate for the dairy industry telling people how milk gets from cow to the consumer. I enjoy doing classroom visits and teaching them what pride we have in producing the nutritious food they eat. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I want to tell consumers how well our dairy animals are cared for. We strive for cow comfort as we pamper our cows daily – from lying on waterbeds, to being massaged by a motorized brush, to their bovine pedicures by a professional hoof trimmer. Cows need to be properly cared for in order to provide delicious dairy products. When it comes to the environment, farmers take care of the land. We plant our crops in contour strips to prevent erosion and also spread manure for use as fertilizer on fields. Everyone on the farm helps provide you with safe, nutritious dairy products. Dairy farmers are committed to the animals and the environment and take such pride in their profession.

Parents: Michael Motl and Kimberly Harff Town: Browerville What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Staples-Motley High School and I will be graduating this May. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I grew up on my family’s dairy farm near Browerville where we Emma Motl, 17 milk around 85 Holsteins Dairy Star Sponsor: and farm around 150 acres. Osakis Creamery I am responsible for feedAssociation ing the calves daily and reOsakis, MN lief milking when needed. 320-859-2146 Throughout high school, I have been involved in: 4-H, band, choir, National Honor Society, and speech. Next fall, I plan to attend Gustavus-Adolphus College in St. Peter where I hope to major in biology and enter the pre-medicine program. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I feel this is an important role to play in my county because it is important to spread the good news about dairy. Every spring, when we teach third-graders about dairy, I know that I am helping the next generation to be healthy and happy by showing them the importance of getting their three servings of dairy. In the summer, when I tell others in my community about the work of dairy farmers, I know I am supporting an important industry. Essentially, this is important to me because this industry has given so much to me and I want to give back to the dairy farmers of my county. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would explain to the consumers that caring for our dairy animals is just good business. Healthy and comfortable cows produce a wholesome product. In order to keep our cows healthy and comfortable, we make sure to feed them well. Thus, we have to be good stewards of the land to get quality feed, such as hay, for our animals. By taking care of our land, we are able to take care of our cows and our livelihood.

Wabasha County

Parents: William and Jody Durow Town: Mazeppa What is your current status? I am a sophomore at the University of MN – Twin Cities studying animal science with an emphasis in dairy. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am currently continuing my education in agriculture and when I am Caitlin Durow, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: home, I help on our famWingert Sales & ily dairy farm in Mazeppa. Service We milk approximately 40 Plainview, MN Holstein and Brown Swiss 507-534-4386 cows and raise corn and alfalfa for feed. My future plans include owning my own bovine ultra-sounding business while staying involved on the farm and continuing my career in dairy judging. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? Representing the dairy industry is important to me because it is something I have always been involved and I have seen the hard work, dedication, and effort it takes to be a dairy farmer. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers depend on healthy cows for their livelihood, so dairy cows need to be healthy and well cared for to produce a wholesome, quality milk. Along with the care of their animals, dairy farmers understand the importance of our natural resources because the land plays a vital role in our businesses and quality of life. Dairy farmers have a history of providing a safe product as milk and dairy products undergo extensive testing to ensure its safety and healthiness.

Parents: Stan Rabehl and Julie Madsen Town: Millville/Lake City What is your current status? I am attending high school and working part time. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I’m an outgoing person who loves to have fun and hang out with friends. I work at Evers Dairy Farm that milks Chelsea Rabehl, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: about 1,500 cows and Tom Halder, Art farms many acres of land. My farm is family operated Hoffman, Al Meyer of Genex by four brothers who work 651-764-1287 together to keep things running smoothly. Many others are there around the clock every day to get all the work accomplished. My future plans are to attend Rochester Community and Technical College this fall to become a registered nurse. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I think it is important for the public to have a better understanding of dairy farming. I can also set a good example for dairy farmers and let everyone know how Wabasha County continued on next page

Wabasha County continued

hard they work. At the end of the day, dairy farmers love their job, and are happy and fortunate people. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell them that dairy farmers take pride in caring for their animals and the environment. They also do everything they can to be sure they are making their products as healthy and safe as possible. I would tell people about how farmers go through certain precautions and sanitize milk equipment.

Parents: Jim and Deb Wallerich Town: Lake City What is your current status? I am a senior at Lincoln High School in Lake City, Minn. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I live on our family farm with my parents and have two siblings: Jason (30) and Angie (27). Brittany Diane We have about 50 Holsteins that are milked twice Wallerich, 18 a day. Next fall, I will be Dairy Star Sponsor: attending the University Ag Partners of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. 800-732-1439 I plan on majoring in nursing. One day, I would love to further my education and work towards a master’s degree in emergency care or anesthesia. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I’ve grown up in a community where everyone works hard for what they have. The tough times come and go, but many dairy farmers never give up and it shows because they’ve had their cows for years. I’m very honored and excited to be able to represent all my neighbors and the whole dairy industry by being a dairy princess for our county. Memories from this experience are already in the making and I can’t wait to see what this summer will hold. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Although dairy farmers have different ways of operating farms, we each strive for the same thing: strong producing cows. To convince people that dairy producers are being considerate, I would explain the process from the top. When calves are born they are separated to prevent sickness and fed appropriately to build strong immune systems. It’s crucial to think about how to make the environment a good place for them to grow. Farmers make sure they have it all – shelter, water, feed to name a few. As time passes, they enter the milking herd. Heating, ventilation, overall cleanliness, water quality, bedding, and so many other aspects are needed to raise a strong herd. To assure the milk is of proper quality to drink it is tested often. Farmers also run the land. There are a lot of decisions dairy farmers need to make, but I can say with confidence that dairy cows are well cared for and the environment is too. Dairy producers provide us with safe, healthy and delicious milk.

It takes more than 21 pounds of whole milk to make one pound of butter.

Wadena County

Parents: Allen and Karen Trosen Town: Verndale What is your current status? I am attending Trinity Bible College, taking classes in business, generals for a nursing degree, and bible classes in Ellendale, North Dakota. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am 20 years old, and love living on a dairy Kelsie H. Trosen, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: farm. My dad and uncle milk anywhere from 50- Olsen’s Custom Farm Service 60 Holsteins. We raise our Verndale, MN own feed, including hay, 218-445-5678 oats, barley, soybeans and Sebeka, MN corn. We farm 360 acres 218-837-5749 and raise our own youngStaples, MN stock. When I am home, 800-477-7059 I primarily tend to calves and feeding chores. I love the summer work of hay, straw, and driving tractor. I plan on pursuing a career in nursing. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? For me, it is important to be a dairy princess because it is an excellent opportunity to help educate those younger than me on the importance of dairy products in their lives. In the process, I am learning a tremendous amount about the industry that has been a part of my whole life. I am extremely proud of my parents for the commitment they have to their profession. We have a commitment to getting the message proclaimed about how important dairy products are to each and every age group. I love having the opportunity to represent our industry wherever I go and meeting wonderful people. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I, for one, have seen firsthand the care and concern our local producers take in caring for their operations. It is easy to understand that the consumers should have a healthy concern about the welfare of all animals and our environment. We have been given by God, the responsibility to care for all creation. So, I would encourage consumers to not judge all producers by what they see on the local news depicting one situation but to look at the broader picture. If they only stop and think about it from a business perspective, that the welfare of our animals is our success, then they will realize that we have an investment at stake if we don’t care for our animals, land, and our product.

Waseca County

Parents: Chuck and Kris Manthey Town: Janesville What is your current status? I am a junior at the University of WisconsinRiver Falls where I am studying dairy science and ag business. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I come from a small dairy farm in rural Janesville where we milk Angie Manthey, 20 Dairy Star Sponsor: 40 cows and farm 285 acres of alfalfa, corn, and Bongards’ Creameries Bongards, MN soybeans. In college, I am 952-466-5521 involved in the Dairy Club and serve as the historian for the professional agricultural sorority, Sigma Alpha. After graduation, I plan to work within the dairy industry as a dairy nutritionist. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important for me to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in my county because I want to educate the public about how well dairy farm-

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Waseca County continued

ers care for their cows. I also want to share with people how hard dairy farmers work to produce a wholesome, nutritious, good tasting product for others to enjoy. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would tell consumers that a dairy farmer’s No. 1 priority is taking care of their cows and the environment. Farmers want to take care of the environment because not only is it where they raise their families, but it is also a feed source for their cows. Farmers want to make sure their cows are well cared for and well fed because happy, healthy cows produce the highest quality product for consumers to enjoy.

Parents: Cary and Connie Larson Town: New Richland What is your current status? I am in my second year at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where I am majoring in ag marketing communications and minoring in animal science. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your Sara Larson, 20 future plans. The dairy inDairy Star Sponsor: dustry plays a big part of Hope Creamery my life. I am a relief milker Hope, MN on an 80-cow dairy owned 507-684-2019 by Keith and Bill Root. I enjoy showing and judging dairy cattle. At UWRF I am involved in Dairy Club, Ag Communicators of Tomorrow and Sigma Alpha Sorority. I also milk at the university lab farm. After graduating, I would like to become a representative for a company within the dairy industry and judge cattle shows around the Midwest. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? The dairy industry is where my passion lies. To me it is important to represent the dairy farmers of Waseca County because this gives me the opportunity to interact with the public. If the public has any questions about the industry, it is my job to educate them and let them know that dairy farmers are hardworking, dedicated people who care for their cows and produce nutritious products. The dairy industry is something I love. The people within the industry are amazing, and it is such an honor to represent such a wonderful industry and the dairy farmers within it. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? First, I would invite consumers out to a farm to see the daily operations of a dairy farm. I would tell the consumer that dairy farmers are some of the most passionate people I know. They have to care for their animals and land because that is their livelihood. They just don’t do it for the money. They do it because it is what they love. After all, dairy farmers don’t get up early and come in late because they are getting ahead, they do it because of a passion that lies within. Dairy farmers work hard every day to ensure the products consumers buy are safe and healthy by taking good care of their animals.

The natural yellow color of butter comes mainly from the betacarotene found in the grass cows eat.

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Washington County

Parents: Pat and Sharlene Daninger Town: Forest Lake What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Forest Lake Senior High School. Due to my duties as a Minnesota FFA State Officer, I will not be running for Princess Kay of the Milky Way this year. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. My Erin Daninger, 18 Dairy Star Sponsor: farm has 55 Holstein cows, Buckey’s Sales with about 140 total head. & Service We farm 200 acres, which Frost, MN includes pasture for rota800-788-6484 tional grazing, alfalfa, and corn. In high school, I have been involved in volleyball, weight training, track, National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 4-H and FFA. This next year, I will be attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, majoring in agricultural education. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I am proud to serve as a Washington County Dairy Princess and represent the industry I am passionate about. With so few consumers knowing where their food comes from, I know that it is the responsibility of those involved in direct production agriculture to inform them. Especially in this time of criticism of all facets of the agriculture industry, having the ability to spread the positive news of the good agriculture and dairy farmers do is something I take pride in. I also love to inform the consumers about the health benefits of dairy products, whether it be elementary students or adults. It is my pleasure to promote the dairy industry. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Many consumers have preconceived stereotypes about the way animals are treated and how our land is taken care of. However, they may not realize that dairy farming is not only our job, but it is our way of life. Our land is not only farmed, it is our home. Telling the public about my farm and the animals I raise is the best way to show the consumers all around us how much we care. When they see the passion we have behind the stories we tell, they will have a greater understanding as to the reason why we devote our life to dairy farming.

Parents: Fran and Mary Ann Miron Town: Hugo What is your current status? I am currently a freshman at the University of Minnesota majoring in agricultural education. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I represent the fifth generation to live and work on our family’s farm. We maintain Kathleen Miron, 19 Dairy Star Sponsor: 220 head of Holsteins. We Federated Co-ops also raise corn, soybeans, Osceola, WI oats and hay on 700 acres 800-294-7661 of land. On campus, I am 715-294-2789 involved in the Agricultural Education Club and Beta of Clovia Sorority. I am also involved in our church. This past year I have had the honor of serving as the Minnesota FFA State Vice President. I plan to become an agricultural education teacher and FFA Advisor. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? In a time when most consumers are three generations removed from the farm, it is important for people to realize where their food comes from. By being a dairy princess, I am able to represent the dairy farmers of

Washington County continued

Winona County continued

my county and ensure that their communities understand the vital role they play and how dedicated they are to producing a wholesome and nutritious product. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy has always been and will continue to be part of a healthy diet and lifestyle. There are many options within dairy to satisfy individual tastes. Our family’s farm theme is “Caring for family, livestock and the land for over a century.” I can clearly see our efforts each day on the farm to meet these standards. Since a dairy farmer’s livelihood depends on the land and their animals, safeguarding these resources is of the foremost concern. Dairy farmers take deep pride in their concern for the environment and their management practices reflect this attitude. They have a strong work ethic and sound values.

Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? I feel it is very important to educate young children, who may not get to experience farming the way I got to. Dairy farmers are very proud of what they do, and I know that I can make them proud by representing them! What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are very committed to what they do. It is a full-time job, and there isn’t a day that they aren’t outside making sure that everything is going right on the farm. Dairy cows live the life. They have a very balanced diet, and they get milked at least twice a day so that they are comfortable. Like my dad would always say, “If you don’t treat your animals with respect, you shouldn’t expect them to treat you with it. It is a give and take relationship!”

Winona County

Parents: Kevin and Cher Franzen Town: Lewiston What is your current status? I am currently a senior at Lewiston-Altura High School, and work part-time at Kwik Trip in Lewiston. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I am the 17 year old daughter of Kevin and Cher Franzen. I am Mariah Franzen, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: currently a senior, and after graduation I plan on going Security State Bank Lewiston, MN to Southeast Tech to pur507-523-2161 sue a career as in administrative assistance. I live on is a small dairy farm where we milk 50 cows, twice a day. I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. I also like helping in the barn and I love being outside in the summer. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It is important to me to be a dairy princess, and represent dairy farmers in my county because farming is a great part of this country. It is important to make everyone aware of the role farming plays, so we can enjoy all of the delicious dairy products. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? I would say that farmers are well committed to what they do, so they show good care for the animals and the environment. They do this so they can provide a safe and healthy product for everyone to enjoy. Parents: Roxanne Pasche and the late Ben Pasche Town: Rollingstone What is your current status? I am currently going to Lewiston-Altura High School, and I work on my aunt and uncle’s farm. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your future plans. I currently am helping on Kristi and Dean Reps’ dairy farm. Nicole Pasche, 17 Dairy Star Sponsor: They milk their 50 cows Luehmann’s IBA twice a day. Whenever I Lewiston, MN get the chance, I love to 507-523-3608 go over and help out. They have always been there for me, especially when I needed them most after my dad passed away. They remind me what it is like to still have a family farm. After high school, I plan on attending college nearby in the health field.

Parents: Craig and Heidi Bain Town: Utica What is your current status? I am a senior at Lewiston-Altura High School. I am involved in band, choir, volleyball and track and field. I currently work at Subway in Lewiston. Tell us about yourself, the farm you live and/or work on, and your Ashton Bain, 18 future plans. I live on a Dairy Star Sponsor: dairy farm where we milk Elba Co-op Creamery 100 cows. We milk and Elba, MN feed twice a day. In the 507-932-3861 future I plan on attending Rochester Community and Technical College for the dental hygiene program. Why is it important to you to be a dairy princess and represent the dairy farmers in your county? It’s important because everyone needs to know about the nutritional products dairy provides and how important it is to keep the nutrients in our body system. Dairy farmers jobs are to provide the tasty, nutritional food, and without the consumers, they can’t do their job. What would you say to convince consumers that dairy producers are committed to caring for their animals and the environment while providing a safe and healthy product? Dairy farmers are committed to caring for their animals because it’s their job. Without keeping good care of the animals they are unable to make the great tasting products that we as consumers love. With safe healthy animals, we are able to consume a safe healthy product.

If you would like additional copies of this special edition, please contact Nancy at the Dairy Star office, 320-352-6303 Or visit www.dairystar.com to see a digital version of this special edition.