Posted: 02.11.2011
Family Dairies USA members are streaming into Wisconsin Dells for their 39th annual business meeting at the Kahlahari Resort. The event runs Friday and Saturday, and is expected to encompass at least 220-270 members and guests.
David Cooper, general manager of Family Dairies, told Pam Jahnke that Friday's sessions will be dedicated to estate and succession planning and taking care of cattle. He says given the erratic moves the economy has made - both topics are key to memebers.
Friday evening will include the annual awards banquet.
Cooper said they will also be making only their second presentation of their "Lifetime Achievement" award. The very special honor will be given posthumously to former Wisconsin Agriculture Secretary, Rod Nilsesteun. This special event comes on the heels of learning that Rod's wife, Carol, lost her battle with cancer on Thursday. Cooper said he understands that Rod's sister will try to be in attendance to receive the honor. Cooper told Pam Jahnke that the only other person that's ever received this high honor from Family Dairies was Stewart Huber - who was manager of the former Farmers Union Milk Marketing Cooperative (today's Family Dairies USA).
Cooper said the "Meritorious Service" award will be presented on Friday evening to Former Wisconsin Senator, Russ Feingold. A special 25 year service award will also be presented to Iowa employee, Bob Hodgson from Dyersville.
Producer members will also be recognized for their quality production in 2010.
The annual business meeting will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Cooper said they'll be discussing milk pricing reform ideas that are advancing nationally, and specifically hearing how it might change the terrain for midwest dairy producers. Steve Etka, Coordinator for the Midwest Dairy Coalition will also be briefing the audience on new members of the House and Senate Ag Committee - and the budget challenges ahead.
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