www.Steley.com, the first 24/7 Online Auction website specifically for livestock
News Release
January 31, 2011
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Stephen Maddox
Steley, owner
559-903-0051 smaddoxjr@hotmail.com
Livestock Auction Website to Change Ag Industries Worldwide
FRESNO, Calif.-- Steley, the first 24/7 Online Auction website specifically for livestock, allows consumers to buy and sell cattle genetics worldwide. The concept for Steley, was born out of owner, Stephen Maddox Jr.’s frustration for having to wait for the right auction to market and sell his family’s genetics and Registered Holsteins. “In this tough dairy economy we believe that it is important to market the genetics that we have worked hard to achieve,” said Maddox. “In our eyes, having registered animals is one of the ways to further diversify our family business.”
Before Steley, potential buyers and sellers had to wait for the next scheduled sale that could be weeks or even months away. Today, Steley.com facilitates daily online auctions for any type of livestock worldwide 24/7. Potential buyers can go online to www.steley.com and browse through a wide variety of live animals, semen and embryos for sale. “The days of buying animals sight-unseen or flying cross country to find the perfect animal are a thing of the past,” says Maddox. “At anytime from any computer a buyer can find his next show ring winner, great cow family, or profitable pen of animals at Steley.com.”
Posting for sellers on www.steley.com is free with a low commission charge of 5% on all sales. If a lot does not sell, there is no cost to the seller. “Steley offers excellent advertising and sales opportunities in one shot,” said co-owner Haley Maddox. “With free posting and complete control over their lot listing Steley is a great risk-free option for today’s farmers.” Sellers have the option of regular auctions with safe reserve prices or fixed priced sales. There is also the option for sellers to open their own “store” on the website where buyers on Steley will only be looking at that particular seller’s animals and genetics. “My wife, Haley, and I have created Steley with the hopes of helping our peers market their animals with ease in a more efficient and cost effective way,” said Maddox.
For more information please contact Stephen Maddox at (559) 903-0051 or smaddoxjr@hotmail.com
February 4, 2011
*******ACTION ALERT*******
THE FEDERAL MILK MARKETING IMPROVEMENT ACT
(Formerly S1645)
NEEDS OUR SUPPORT TO BE RE-INTRODUCED AS A BILL AND
PASSED FOR OUR NATION’S DAIRY POLICY REFORM
Call or email your Senators and Representative immediately for this request. The
following is our request to our Senators and Representatives.
LoriJayne M. Grahn, Minnesota Dairy Farmer and Consumer, Pelican Rapids, Minnesota
Gerald Carlin, Pennsylvania Dairy Farmer, Consumer, and Co-author of The Federal Milk
Marketing Improvement Act, Meshoppen, Pennsylvania
Tina Carlin, Pennsylvania Dairy Farm Wife and Consumer, Meshoppen, Pennsylvania
November 11, 2010
Dairy Cattle Antibiotic Residue Prevention Manual Available Free to Farmers
The 2011 Milk and Dairy Beef Drug Residue Prevention Manual is a revision of the Milk and Dairy Beef Residue Avoidance manual that was previously published by the Dairy Quality Assurance Center that NMPF purchased in 2008. As a new area of focus for the National Dairy FARM ProgramTM, the manual can be found online at www.nationaldairyfarm.com under the Residue Prevention tab of the site. The manual is only available free through the website.
California Alfalfa and Forage Symposium & Corn/Cereal Silage Mini-Symposium –
Visalia, California on Dec 1 – 2.
This comprehensive symposium will feature important innovations for forages in California. This year the program has a special focus on corn and cereal silage, with national experts covering the topics of fermentation, management, harvest, safety and feeding.
This symposium is organized by the UC Alfalfa Workgroup, University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Cooperative Extension and supported by the generosity of the forage industry.
October 22, 2010
Have a National Voice
Join the National Dairy Producers Organization
Join the National Dairy Producers Organization to do what's right for the dairy industry. We are calling on the 55,000 dairy producers in the country, to organize together to fight for the interests of dairy farmers. We have a mission to get dairy producers working together to ensure producer profitability as well as industry sustainability, through the elimination of extreme volatility.
Learn More - Conference Calls
Nationwide conference calls are held at 9 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time every day of the week. You are invited to participate in these conference calls which are designed to provide you with information and training that will help you become involved. This also serves as an opportunity to voice your questions and concerns. To participate in the daily conference calls, please call 507.726.4200 and use access code 175993#. Email for more info
"We are ready to go to work with all like minded dairy farmers to do what it takes to prevent the eminent destruction of the American Dairy Farmer. Fair farm prices at the farm gate now!" Jeanne and John Rohl, Rohling Acres Farm, WI
"It is time for producers to unite and have a direct voice with how our milk is priced to the farmer, to expose deceptive import and export activities and correct them, to insist that consumers know where milk products come from (COOL Act), and to further promote the health benefits of the product we produce. We need a new voice!" Gary Genske, CPA, Dairy Farmer, CA
"There is no producer voice in the United States today. We need a voice in Washington to work alongside existing organizations and unify the dairy industry. Producers should speak for themselves. This organization represents a national producer’s voice." Bill Rowell, Dairy Farmer, VT
"Over and over we hear from our legislators that if dairy producers could unify and get together on a plan, we could solve our problems. Hopefully this is a step in the right directions." Doug Maddox, RuAnn Dairy, Riverdale, CA
September 21, 2010
I-9 form audits reported in California Lodi area
- - The Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement is serving businesses in the Lodi area with three-day notices to inspect I-9 forms. Anthony Raimondo, who provides labor counsel to WUD members, reminds WUD members of the importance of being compliant on this important labor issue. WUD members are asked to contact their WUD field representatives about any labor questions they may have. Sept. 15, 2010
Action Alert: Urge California Gov. to veto card check bill
Western United Dairymen members are being urged to contact Gov. Schwarzenegger to urge his veto of legislation by Sen. Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) that would allow unions to be certified as the representatives of agricultural employees without secret ballot elections. SB 1474 was approved by the Senate this week, after earlier approval by the Assembly. Under the proposed law, if a majority of workers sign union authorization cards, the state would certify the union as their representative. Similar “card check” bills have previously been approved by the Legislature, only to be vetoed by Governor Schwarzenegger. Letter can be sent either by fax at (916) 558-3160 or by going to the Governor’s web-form which can be found at http://gov.ca.gov/interact. Select “OTHER” as the issue and then paste your message to the Governor. Sept. 3, 2010 WUD Weekly Update
THE DAIRY PRICE STABILIZATION PROGRAM: BRINGING IT BACK TO BASICS:
(By Rob Vandenheuvel) Since the Spring of 2007, Milk Producers Council has been publicly advocating for a program
that would give dairies an incentive to manage their growth in milk production. The program has been called
several things – Refundable Assessment, Growth Management Plan, and Dairy Price Stabilization Program – but
the concept remained the same.
Continue Reading
Contact us via email at info@myagribusiness.com or by visiting our website at www.myagribusinessdairyman.com. Or you can call our office at 559-222-5050 to participate in the daily calls or the National Town Hall Meetings. The next tele-town hall meeting is scheduled for Wednesday Sept. 15 at 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
Two farm labor workshops designed to help Western United Dairymen members stay in compliance with labor law requirements will be held Aug. 17. Anthony Raimondo, Attorney at Law from McCormick Barstow LLP, will cover such topics as I-9 protocol, overtime regulations, and record keeping.
The District 3 (Marin, Sonoma and Mendocino counties) workshop will be held at Two Rock Fire Hall, 7618 Valley Ford Road, Petaluma (707) 789-0302 from 9-11 a.m.
The District 1 (Glenn, Tehama and Butte counties) workshop will be held from 2-4 p.m. at Glenn County Farm Bureau Office, 831 Fifth Street, Orland (530) 865-9363.
For more information, contact: Leslie Corp (530) 354-4981
August 07, 2010
CALL TO ACTION Aug. 4, 2010
A grassroots coalition of dairy producers actively participating, with a unified voice, on policies and issues affecting milk pricing. Call Senators TODAY for daily price reporting!
MULTI-STATE ACTION ALERT - DAIRY PRODUCERS URGED TO CALL SENATE AG COMMITTEE MEMBERS TODAY (Aug. 3) BEFORE MANDATORY PRICE REPORTING BILL MARKUP TOMORROW (Aug. 4).
Here's how you can help!
Contact your Senators on the Ag Committee (as listed below). Tell them you are aware they will mark up the Mandatory Price Reporting Act of 2010 tomorrow morning (Aug. 4) and that the language specifying "daily" reporting is very important to you as a dairy producer in their state and it is important to you as a business owner in the dairy industry.
Remind them that the current farm bill calls for "more frequent" reporting and daily electronic reporting accomplishes that.
Remind them that the bill they are reauthorizing tomorrow already provides mandatory daily electronic reporting for the beef industry, and other commodities also have daily reporting of daily negotiated trades.
Please pass this message along to other dairy farmers in your state or respective organizations.
Listed below are key members of the Senate Ag Committee and their Washington phone numbers. If you are a constituent in the states below, please join this simultaneous multi-state call-in effort and call your Senator today!
SENATE AG COMMITTEE MEMBERS and their Washington D.C. phone numbers:
BOB CASEY, Pennsylvania - (202) 224-6324
DEBBIE STABENOW, Michigan - (202) 224-4822
SHERROD BROWN, Ohio - (202) 224-2315
KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND, New York - (202) 224-4451
PATRICK LEAHY, Vermont - (202) 224-4242
AMY KLOBUCHAR, Minnesota - 202-224-3244
BEN NELSON, Nebraska - 202-224-6551
BLANCHE LINCOLN, Arkansas - (202) 224-4843
TOM HARKIN, Iowa - (202) 224-3254
MICHAEL BENNET, Colorado - (202) 224-5852
SAXBY CHAMBLISS, Georgia - 202-224-3521
MITCH MCCONNELL, Kentucky - (202) 224-2541
RICHARD LUGAR, Indiana - (202) 224-4814
THAD COCHRAN, Mississippi - 202-224-5054
CHARLES GRASSLEY, Iowa - (202) 224 - 3744
JOHN THUNE, South Dakota - (202) 224-2321
JOHN CORNYN, Texas - (202) 224-2934
PAT ROBERTS, Kansas - (202) 224-4774
Medical Professionals asking Congress to pass legislation to reduce antibiotics in food animals.
More than 1000 physicians and other clinicians, including nurses, have signed statements asking Congress to pass legislation to reduce the use of non-therapeutic antibiotics in food animals. Hospital and Healthy Systems representing over sixty healthcare facilities also signed a petition in support of legislation to end unnecessary antibiotics use in food animal agriculture. Another 300 hospitals have pledged to make changes in their food service meat purchases to exclude meat raised with antibiotics. Health Care Without Harm announced the health care sector's support of antibiotics legislation on the eve of a July 14 hearing conducted by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health to examine the use of antibiotics in animal agriculture.
Urge Schwarzenegger to VETO SB 1121
- a bill that changes farm employee overtime
Take Action today to urge the California Governor to veto SB 1121 (Florez, D-Shafter), which seeks to repeal the six 10-hour workday limit for farm employees.
A quick response is necessary as Governor Schwarzenegger has only 12 days to veto the bill.
The current law requires overtime for farm employees who have worked over 10 hours in a workday. This is already a provision found in no other state. SB 1121 would change the law to require payment of overtime after an 8-hour workday or 40 hours per week.
Ultimately, SB 1121 would hurt both the farm worker and employer by limiting worker hours and requiring the employer to hire more workers to make up the difference.
Help protect the viability of California agriculture - Urge the Governor to veto SB 1121.
Where Do You Stand On The
Foundation for the Future Proposal
Gary Genske's response to NMPF support of "Foundation for the Future"
""Foundation for Who's Future" is my opening comment to National Milk Producers Federation's "Foundation for the Future" proposal for reforming dairy policy."Read Gary Genske's Letter to NMPF
Quote from Randy Mooney, NMPF Chairman and dairy farmer from Rogersville, MO.
“’Foundation for the Future’ is a carefully and meticulously prepared set of programs that not only will help our industry prevent a repeat of what happened in 2009, but also provide for a most prosperous future for dairy producers and their cooperatives.”Read the full NMPF News Release
Calling all entries for “Why I Love Dairy” contest
Do you want to speak directly to the public and let them know all the great things about modern dairy farming?
Are there consumer misperceptions about dairy that you want to set straight?
Are you a fan of milk, cheese and yogurt and want to let others know why?
Here’s your chance: enter the Why I Love Dairy Video Contest, sponsored by Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) through the myDairy social media program.
If you’re interested in the contest, your video should be fun, consumer-friendly and less than two minutes long. Possible themes include dairy product quality, safety and nutrition; animal care and well-being; sustainability and environmental stewardship; or dairy’s contributions to the economy and local communities.
The most entertaining and creative videos will be posted to Dairy Farming Today channels. Entries are due by 5 p.m. CST on Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2010.
For complete video contest rules and key messages to incorporate into your video, visit www.myDairytoolkit.com.
I do think that you have the wrong impression that we don't care about you in the east. I have to say for the most part I think you’re wrong. I am sure there are some that still hold on to grudges that were made in the past but for the most part I think farmers all realize that things are bad for all of us and unless we work together, this is how it will stay. Most of us even realize that you’re in worse shape than many of us and we do see we are all headed in the same direction as you’re in right now. This is even more reason that we should stand together. In the event of the milk dump yesterday I thought of it like a life boat out there in the water throwing out life savers and we were seeing how many would take them or would they just let it go on by and keep on bobbing in the water. If we do not start working together big and small, east and west there will not be many farms out there to speak of. There is still time to make the statement to those who need to hear it we are asking to take one days milk and dump it and show them that we do have the product they need to keep there business going. Grab hold of the life saver and lets take what is ours. We should not have to beg and plead to cover our costs.
If you would like to contact me and let me know your thoughts I would greatly appreciate it.
Well ladies and gentlemen we talked the talk and now we have walked the walk. We did something today that no farmer should have to do to stay alive in this business Yes We Dumped Our Milk!!!! As I watched it go down the drain there were a few thoughts that crossed my mind. The time and energy not just by us but by our girl’s in the barn that had gone into making this milk never mind the money. The fact that this is so ridiculous in this day and age for us to be groveling to receive cost of production for our product. That our nation has so many people who can’t afford food and we are reduced to this measure to make our government take notice, and that so many consumers have no clue to what will happen to them by their farms going out of business in there area. Not only will they be receiving products from other countries that don’t have the save quality food we have in the USA, but the amount of money that the local farmers put into our economy. We help so many different business in our local area how will this effect them and there lives. The thought of the other farmers who decided to stand proud along with us today all across our great nation. To the friend and neighbors and local government officials that thought enough about the situation and decided to take the stand with us that this is such an important issue for our nation. All of the consumers and farmers who cared enough to send there prayers, thoughts and well wishes to us to say they are behind us. To all of these people I thank you from the bottom of my heart for making such a tough day also be a proud day for our family. We can hold our head up and know we tried to make this a better place for all Americans today. I have spoke to someone in the first ladies office and I do hope that with this action today across our country and her stating she wants to help the American people become a healthier nation that she will respond to my letter I am writing and she will call and really take the time to see what is happening to our countries food supply.
If anyone who participated would like to contact me and continue to work on this issue please feel free to call and thank you again it was a true blessing to work with the farmers and media across our Country on this issue. I still say together we can win. Dave and Robin Fitch 315-822-5093 fitchrnd@yahoo.com
June 29, 2010
Department of Justice and USDA Announce Agenda for June 25 Dairy Workshop
The Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today the agenda and panelists for the June 25 workshop examining competition in the dairy industry. The joint public workshop will build on the knowledge and experience of industry stakeholders, including farmers, processors, cooperative leaders and academics. This is the third in a series of five workshops intended to promote dialogue among interested parties and foster learning with respect to competition and regulatory issues in agriculture.
The workshop will be held in the Wisconsin Union Theater at the University of Wisconsin - Madison, 800 Langdon Street, Madison, Wis. Attendance is free and open to the public. The general public and media interested in attending the Wisconsin workshop should register at www.surveymonkey.com/s/V3FHXPY
The workshop will begin with opening remarks and a roundtable discussion including U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Antitrust Division Christine Varney. Wisconsin Senators Herb Kohl and Russell Feingold; Representatives Ron Kind, Steve Kagen and Tammy Baldwin; Governor Jim Doyle; and Agriculture Secretary Rod Nilsestuen have all tentatively accepted invitations to join the roundtable discussion.
The workshop will continue with a session entitled, "Farmer Presentation of Issues," as well as panels on "Trends in the Dairy Industry," "Market Consolidation" and "Market Transparency." There will also be two hours dedicated to public testimony, one immediately prior to lunch and the other at the end of the day.
Read the Details
PRESS RELEASE
Milk Producers Council Responds to
Outrageous Comments by IDFA’s CEO
Ms. Tipton gave a speech on June 16th at a Washington, DC conference, which was printed on the IDFA website and was entitled, “Drawing a Line in the Sand against Supply Management.” The speech offered sharp criticism towards efforts within the dairy farmer community to develop a better tool for better balancing the production of milk with the consumption.
A grassroots effort is underway for a 4th of July Milk Dump to get U.S. lawmaker’s attention to the financial plight of dairy farmers, organized by West Winfield, New York dairy producers Dave and Robin Fitch. Robin Fitch told DairyLine “We have been suffering in the dairy industry for over a year and a half now with the lowest of lows” (milk prices).
Fitch said officials told her there was no hope for change until the 2012 Farm Bill but dairy farmers across the country are expressing support for the Milk Dump effort, which is not being organized by any particular farm group. She added that the effort is not just for farmers but for consumers as well who “want safe quality food that is produced in our country.”
Milk dumps in the past have garnered headlines but have not successfully achieved change in police or prices but Fitch argued; “We can all sit at our tables and we can talk and we can complain but until we do something, nothing is going to change so it is up to the farmer to take back their independence and make the stand that we need to do something to make a change.” For more information, call Dave or Robin at 315-822-5093 or email to fitchrnd@yahoo.com.
For more information, call Dave or Robin at 315-822-50093 or email to fitchrnd@yahoo.com
June 18, 2010
Need a Lender? These guys may be able to help
We were notified by a member that this group is actively looking for Agriculture clients. We have no personal experience with them but we believe it is worth investigating.
Many banks are getting out of Agriculture and/or pushing their clients away. Capital Consultants Inc. claims they can help. Here is information from their website.
CowsAndCrops
Capital Consultants Inc.
Capital Consultants Inc. is a consulting firm specializing in assisting customers in creating financial packages to be presented to brokers, lenders and or investors. We believe a sound financial package is the most important factor in acquiring the funding necessary to meet your goals. Our consultants have helped clients successfully secure funding for refinancing existing debt, new acquisitions, and capital expansion.
Capital is available for:
Hotels, Car dealers, Agriculture, Dairy operations, Feed lots, Start ups, Refinancing debt, expansion capital, High risk projects. Rescue & Emergency funding, Malls, Hotels, Restaurants and Bars
At Capital Consultants Inc., outstanding service is at the heart of everything we do. We offer advice and support for every process and structure within your company – from short-term measures to long-term projects, from small and medium-sized businesses to large corporations.
Capital Consultants Inc.
Marshall Brigner
27300 3rd St
p.o. box 141
Gill, CO 80624 www.capital-consultants.net
USDA is currently accepting nominations for 12 seats on the National Dairy Board. Dairy producer and farm organizations have through June 18th to nominate candidates.
Nominations will be accepted from:
Region 2
California
Region 3
Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming
Region 4
Arkansas, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas
Region 6
Wisconsin
Region 9
Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia
Region 10
Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia
Region 11
Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania
From those nominated, the Secretary of Agriculture will select the dozen individuals to serve three-year terms on the board. Five members will be appointed for Region 2 (California) and one member for each of the remaining seven regions.
Members whose terms expire October 31,2010, are:
Region 2 James L. Ahlem, Hilmar, California
Region 2* John B. Fiscalini, Modesto, California
Region 2* Stephen D. Maddox, Riverdale, California
Region 2* Brad J. Scott, Moreno Valley, Califomia
Region 2* Pauline Tjaarda, Shafter, California
Region 3 Grant B. Kohler, Midway, Utah
Region 4 Jose L. Gorøalez, Mesquite, New Mexico
Region 6* William J. Herr, Greenwood, Wisconsin
Region 9 Paul L. Broering, St. Henry, Ohio
Region 10 John M. Larson, Okeechobee, Florida
Region 11 Paula A. Meabon,’Wattsburg, Pennsylvania
Region 12* Corinne M. Banker, Morrisville, New York
* Members eligible for re-nomination to serve a second 3-year term.
May 30, 2010
CWT ANNOUNCES HERD RETIREMENT
Bids to Remove Cows Being Accepted May 28 through June 25
ARLINGTON, VA – After reviewing a number of economic benchmarks including cull rates
and cull cow prices, Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) announced Thursday that it will
conduct a herd retirement. Bids will be accepted starting Friday, May 28th with a cutoff date of
Friday, June 25th.
CWT has determined that it will consider bids up to, but not to exceed, $3.75 per
hundredweight
Farm Bill 2012 in Development - Share your Dairy Policy Thoughts
As the House Agriculture Committee prepares to consider the next Farm Bill 2012, visit the Committee's website and share your thoughts about the future of farm policy. In order for your comments to be considered part of the Committee's Farm Bill field hearing record, please submit your comments using the form by June 14, 2010.
Funding for nutrient management projects available
Dairy producers in the Central Valley who have identified deficiencies in their nutrient management infrastructure or need to make other improvements can apply for funds to address those issues under the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program (AWEP). The deadline to apply for funds is June 1 at any local USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) office. WUD staff is available to assist members in making the application. Western United Dairymen partnered with USDA-NRCS to bring the additional $4.4 million in AWEP funding to dairy producers in the Central Valley and is working with NRCS to make dairy producers aware that the funding is available. AWEP is a voluntary conservation initiative that provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers to implement agricultural water enhancement activities on agricultural land for the purpose of conserving surface- and ground-water and improving water quality. Western United Dairymen sought the funding to assist producers in complying with water quality regulations. Producers have developed Nutrient Management Plans and are now developing Waste Management Plans that may indicate where improvements are needed. AWEP funding can help complete those needed improvements. More information and applications are available at any local Central Valley USDA NRCS office.
To amend the Dairy Production Stabilization Act of 1983
to establish a dairy price stabilization program.
Read the Bill
SHOULDN’T ALL DAIRY FARMERS HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO BE HEARD?
First of all, I want to make one thing very clear. I definitely believe that all dairy farmers have a God-given right to have their own opinions regarding any new dairy policy that will affect their dairy operations. However, I feel that these same dairy farmers must examine all current dairy policies that are being proposed by various groups, including the Progressive Agriculture Organization (Pro Ag) and the National Family Farm Coalition (NFFC), if they are to be properly informed about the situation that has put their dairy farms at risk and if they want to have real choices in determining viable solutions to this dairy crisis. Read the Full Letter
U.S House Agriculture Committee Hits the Road for Farm Bill Hearings
Full Committee on Agriculture - Public Hearing to review U.S. agriculture policy in advance of the 2012 Farm Bill.
Details for the Farm Bill field hearings are included below. For those who cannot attend the hearings, the House Agriculture Committee plans to provide live video coverage of each hearing on the Committee's website: http://agriculture.house.gov/hearings/audio.html
The Committee will also collect public comments about the Farm Bill on its website: http://agriculture.house.gov/inside/feedbackform.html All comments received online by June 14, 2010 will be included in the Committee's Farm Bill field hearing record.
Farm Bill Field Hearing Schedule
Des Moines, Iowa
Friday, April 30th - 1:00 p.m. CDT
Iowa State Fair Grounds, Penningroth Sale Center
Nampa, ID
Saturday, May 1st - 1:00 p.m. MDT
Northwest Nazarene University, Old Science Lecture Hall
Fresno, CA
Monday, May 3rd- 9:00 a.m. PDT
Fresno City Hall Council Chambers, 2nd Floor
Cheyenne, WY
Tuesday, May 4th- 8:00 a.m. MDT
Laramie County Community College
Center for Conferences and Institutes, Centennial Room 130
Morrow, GA
Friday, May 14th - 1:30 p.m. EDT
National Archives Southeast Region
Troy, AL
Saturday, May 15th - 1:00 p.m. CDT
Cattlemen's Park
Pike County Cattlemen's Association
Lubbock, TX
Monday, May 17th - 9:00 a.m. CDT
Texas Tech Museum
Texas Tech University
Sioux Falls, SD
Tuesday, May 18th - 8:00 a.m. CDT
2nd Floor Theater
Edith Mortenson Center
Augustana College
The U.S. House Committee on Agriculture web site http://agriculture.house.gov has additional information on this and other subjects.
April 30, 2010
Dairy Producers Send letters to the editor of Industry Websites, Magazines and Government wanting to be heard and demanding change.
Click on links to read each letter
Dear Editor,
"I am one of the partners in Faihopity Farms in Columbia County in Pennsylvania.
Our Dairy Farm is operated solely as true family farm. We were shocked two days ago when we received our advance check for the first fifteen days of April’s production, the amount was $12.78 per cwt." Letter by Linda Broyan
_______________________________________
To The Editor:
"It has now been over a year since the price paid to farmers for milk crashed. Dairy farmers are going out of business at an alarming rate." Letter by Gretchen Maine
_______________________________________
Letter to the Editor
From Loren Lopes
"California dairy producers have been selling their milk below the cost of production starting 2008 for the past twenty four months." Letter by Loren Lopes
_______________________________________
Dear Editor;
"I am sure you are well aware of the Dairy Crisis by now, as it has been almost 2 years that farmers are in dire need of a change for the way milk is priced." Letter by Robin Fitch
April 26, 2010
Support The Federal Milk Marketing Improvement Act of 2009
Dairy Bill S1645
Could you please post this so that we can give the farmers an opportunity to sign on in support of the Dairy Bill S-1645.
The tally of supporters will be forwarded to the House and Senate.
I am LoriJayne M Grahn, a Minnesota Dairy Farmer. I am not a member of any organization, but all farmers stand on common ground where we have had enough!
Enough of low milk prices, the corruption, and policies or programs where we keep paying more for less.
Enough of giving us pennies instead of the dollars we justly earned.
We need to unite and save our farms. We need a cost of production and no less. We cannot continue on year after year with the same problems.
We need a solution and that solution is Dairy Bill S-1645. It was written by farmers for farmers.
The Bill S-1645 is a solution to fix a broken pricing system that fails us over and over again, leaving us with welfare subsidies and programs that don't work. This Bill S-1645 is a chance and answer to save our farms now and not later. It can be done but it will take all of us. The Bill S-1645 needs and waits for our support, and once it gets past, it can start working for us immediately.
Authored by
Gerald Carlin,
Meshoppen, PA
Responses can be emailed to:
Lisa M. Robinson,
A New York Dairy Farmer and Consumer,
607-525-6329 robinsonfarms@zoominternet.net
Just a reminder... Rock River Laboratory - West cordially invites you to join us for a barbecue lunch followed by an afternoon informational seminar on April 26th at our facility in Visalia.
If you haven't done so already, please RSVP by Friday (April 16th) to Jeff or Zac if you plan on attending the Rock River Laboratory - West Nutrition Seminar on April 26th!!!
Where:
Rock River Laboratory West
708 N Gateway Street
Visalia, CA 93291
(559) 623.1911
When:
12:00PM (Lunch) - 4PM April 26th, 2010
Speakers Include:
Dr. Dave Mertens - USDA Forage Research Scientist (Madison, Wisconsin) / Mertens Innovation & Research LLC- "Forage Variability and Multiple Sampling" - (Technical Information)
Dr. Peter Robinson - University of California - Davis - "TMR Sampling and Assay" - (Dairy Application)
Randy Asher - Alltech - "Mycotoxins and the Challenges We Face in the Future"
* Each presentation will be followed by a question and answer session.
Jeff Mendonca toke his family there like most of us have. He found it very disturbing.
They had a model cow wearing a gas mask. Then there is a picture of a woman screaming, she says not to eat meat or drink milk because cows are destroying our ozone. This has been proven that this is not true. Tell me would you rather be locked in garage with a cow, or a running car?
My opinion is boycott the aquarium. I remember that when my father worked for Hewlett Packard as their personal gardener, on their ranch in Merced they had thousands of beef cattle. The reason I am saying this is, because Hewlett Packard money built the aquarium. As a dairy producers or anyone whose livelihoods depend on the dairy industry should boycott the aquarium. Maybe we shouldn't buy their HP computers ether.
USDA Dairy Industry Advisory Committee to Meet April 13-15
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today said the first meeting of the newly established Dairy Industry Advisory Committee will be held April 13-15 at USDA headquarters in Washington, D.C., at the Jamie L. Whitten Building. The meeting is open to the public.
Ninth North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge
On April 8, 9 and 10 - 120 college students from 30 universities across the United States and Canada will step up to the ultimate challenge applying their knowledge to analyze an ongoing dairy business from top to bottom at the ninth North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge.
Join us and file your report from Visalia, California
ALBANY -- Farmers in New York are being asked to tell their stories.
The New York Farm Bureau Foundation for Agricultural Education is trying to collect short personal stories to assemble in a collection called "A Day in the Life of a Farmer."
The foundation is looking for one-page stories that focus on a personal experience connected to agriculture or for stories that tell about a day in the life of a farmer.
The foundation wants to raise awareness about farming.
The first round of submissions are due August 15th. Guidelines are available on the foundation's
Open Meeting with Congressman Costa in California at Maddox Dairy
Email from CowsAndCrops Member
There will be a open meeting On April 6th to talk about the Costa Bill. It will be at Maddox Dairy @12863 Kamm Ave. Riverdale at 3:00 . Congressman Costa will be there to talk about the bill , I hope you could post this for me .
Any questions call 209-810-0880 Hank van Exel
New email from Mr. van Exel on 03/31/2010 Good morning, I have been getting phone calls about the bill and I wanted to clarify a couple of things about the meeting. There has been a lot of work done by many people across the country to try and get something to stabilize the price of milk and try and stop the boom and bust that we are now seeing in the dairy pricing system. Congressman Costa is formulating a bill that to that effect. The bill and its content will be discussed with congressman Costa and those who have worked diligently on the bill .Please everyone attend to listen and give input . The date is April 6th at Maddox dairy 12863 Kamm Ave. Riverdale @ 3:00 .
Letter to DFA (Dairy Farmers of America)
From Gary Genske of Genske, Mulder & Co., LLP
Requesting DFA to write Tom Vilsack to invoke the 1937 Ag. Act.
"Cheap" milk products from New Zealand and China are displacing our local milk. Remember melamine tainted baby formula? Cheap does not equal safe.
Big business dairy producers are buying "cheap" milk, driving our domestic prices down, and pocketing record profits. Our dairy farmers are being choked out, we're drinking milk from foreign countries, and we're losing our farms.
BUS TRIP TO WASHINGTON , DC
SPONSORED BY PROGRESSIVE AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION
If anyone is interested in making the trip to Washington , please contact Pro Ag at 570-833-5776 for details.
Officials of the Progressive Agriculture Organization (Pro Ag) announced today that they are sponsoring a bus trip to Washington , DC , on Tuesday, April 13th.
Arden Tewksbury, Manager of Pro Ag, said that various meetings are being scheduled with officials from different departments within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other federal agencies including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
"Cheap" milk products from New Zealand and China are displacing our local milk. Remember melamine tainted baby formula? Cheap does not equal safe.
Big business dairy producers are buying "cheap" milk, driving our domestic prices down, and pocketing record profits. Our dairy farmers are being choked out, we're drinking milk from foreign countries, and we're losing our farms.
BUS TRIP TO WASHINGTON , DC
SPONSORED BY PROGRESSIVE AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION
If anyone is interested in making the trip to Washington , please contact Pro Ag at 570-833-5776 for details.
Officials of the Progressive Agriculture Organization (Pro Ag) announced today that they are sponsoring a bus trip to Washington , DC , on Tuesday, April 13th.
Arden Tewksbury, Manager of Pro Ag, said that various meetings are being scheduled with officials from different departments within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other federal agencies including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The group will be meeting with Senator Arlen Specter (D-PA) and several other elected officials. The thrust of the meetings will center on gaining additional support for “The Federal Milk Marketing Improvement Act of 2009,” (S-1645), often referred to as the “Specter-Casey Dairy Bill.”
Also, the Pro Ag people will be cooperating with the National Family Farm Coalition (NFFC) in an attempt to gain support for implementing an emergency floor price under all classes of milk. Tewksbury said, “Although February’s milk price in Order #1 came in at $16.30 per cwt, dairy farmers’ milk that is currently being produced during the month of March in Order #1 will fall way below $16.00 per cwt.”
Dennis Boyanowski, President of Pro Ag said, “Dairy farmers have had enough of this. Something meaningful has to be done and done soon to correct these pricing inequities.”
Dairy farmers everywhere are desperate. It is critical that immediate action be taken to improve farm milk prices paid to all dairy farmers.
PRO AG can be reached at 570-833-5776 or by e-mail at: progressiveagricultureorg@gmail.com
March 18, 2010
Environmental stewardship classes slated
The California Dairy Quality Assurance Program (CDQAP) is once again offering free classes in air quality, one of the components needed for environmental stewardship certification.
Workshop schedule
Tuesday, March 16, 10 a.m. – 12 noon
Stanislaus County Agricultural Center, Stanislaus Building, “HI” Room, 3800 Cornucopia Way, Modesto, CA
Thursday, March 18, 10 a.m. – 12 noon
Tulare County Agricultural Center, 4437 Laspina Street, Tulare, CA
Cal Poly and CSU Fresno students face off to prepare for Dairy Challenge
Students from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and California State University Fresno faced off in a friendly competition to test their dairy knowledge.
A Dairy Challenge scrimmage was held to prepare students for the upcoming Western Dairy Challenge that will be held March 4-6 in Twin Falls, Idaho. The Dairy Challenge is an innovative management analysis competition developed in 2002 by industry and university professionals from across the U.S.
“The Dairy Challenge gives students hands-on experience evaluating farms,” says Stan Henderson, dairy science professor at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. An experience which he says can be applied in future careers.
Students take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it, says Jon Robison, professor of dairy science at California State University in Fresno. “The Dairy Challenge bridges the gap between books, lectures and the real world.”
Western United Dairymen holds its annual convention in Modesto, CA on March 10-12.
Members are urged to make plans now to attend this compelling and informative dairy gathering.
Registration information is being mailed next week to all WUD members. For those who would like to obtain that information quicker, it is available on the WUD website at http://www.westernuniteddairymen
Click on the convention section highlighted on the front page. Registration forms for both members and non-members can be downloaded, along with complete schedules for each of the three days. February 24 is the hotel deadline to receive the special discounted WUD convention rate.
Rooms at the Modesto Doubletree may be booked either by calling the hotel directly at (209) 525-3045 or (209) 526-6000. Be sure to request the Western United Dairymen Room Block to receive the convention rate, starting at $128. Rooms can also be reserved online at
www.Modesto.Doubletree.com
Go to the Reservations button. Enter the hotel location, arrival and departure dates, the number of rooms needed, and room type preferences. At the Special Accounts section, go to Group/Convention Code and enter WES . Group rates starting at $128 will appear. Click on the circle next to the available rate and choose Continue . Enter your contact information and click Book Now . Your reservation will automatically be added to the WUD room block.
February 13, 2010
Dairy herdsman short course April 27-29 in Tulare, CA
A three-day dairy herdsman short course sponsored by UC Cooperative Extension will be held in Tulare April 27-29. The course is designed for working dairy employees and is designed to provide information on the latest technology and training in all aspects of dairy management. Simultaneous translation will be available to assist Spanish-speaking attendees. Morning session will focus on classroom sessions, with the afternoons devoted to hands-on training.
Registration fee is $280.
Companies or dairies with more than one participant will be charged $260 for each additional participant.
Hedging Seminars
Beef, Crop, Dairy and Pork Hedging:
Upcoming Seminars in Chicago, IL
CIH uses hands-on, practical solutions to explore how futures and options strategies both relate to your physical commodity positions and protect the enterprise profit margin.
Upcoming Seminars
CBS Evening News featuring Katie Couric, has scheduled a two-part report on antimicrobial use in food-animal production. Baring major breaking news that would delay the reports, the series is scheduled for evening news broadcasts on Feb. 9 and 10. (The newscast begins at 5:30 p.m. CST.)
Feb. 11 town hall on Calif. Water Crisis, at World Ag Expo
The speakers list is firming up for the February 11 Town Hall forum on the California Water Crisis, at the 2010 World Ag Expo in Tulare next month.
“California’s Water Crisis and the Endangered Species Act” is the title of the program, which will be sponsored by Pacific Legal Foundation.
The forum takes place on Thursday, February 11, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. – the final event of this year’s Expo. It will be held in the Heritage Center (Banquet Hall) of the International Agri-Center in Tulare.
Among those who will be speaking:
Rob Rivett, Pacific Legal Foundation’s president
PLF attorneys Damien Schiff and Brandon Middleton
John Harris, prominent San Joaquin Valley farmer-rancher
Erick Johnson, a leading water expert and consultant, The Water Agency, Inc., in Clovis
Tom Birmingham, general manager, Westlands Water District
Johnny Amaral, chief of staff to Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Visalia
Piedad Ayala, Central Valley farmer, businessman and founder of Water for All
Jim Jasper, San Joaquin Valley farmer
Shawn Coburn, San Joaquin Valley farmer
More names will be announced in coming days.
The program will consist of three 30-minute panels, followed by a question-and-answer period at the end.
Among the subjects to be discussed:
What is the current outlook for 2010 water availability in the San Joaquin Valley and points south?
To what extent are federal environmental restrictions responsible for the water reductions plaguing farms, businesses, and communities in the San Joaquin Valley and in southern California?
How are the water restrictions affecting the economy of the state (and the nation)?
How are individual farmers coping with major irrigation reductions?
Are the water reductions legally and scientifically justifiable?
What legal and policy efforts are being made to get water flowing again?
January 23, 2010
NORTH CALIFORNIA VALLEY CALPOLY CULL COW FUNDRAISER
A Cull Cow Fundraiser for the North Valley has been organized for the last week of January. Like the fundraiser held in the Tulare area, the proceeds will go to help Cal Poly keep their dairy herd intact. There has been a change from earlier plans, as Farmers Livestock of Oakdale is also now participating the same week of the sale. The sale dates are as follows:
Monday, January 25th: Escalon Livestock Market
Tuesday, January 26th: Turlock Livestock Auction Yard
Thursday, January 28th: Farmers Livestock Auction
Additionally, if anyone needs help with trucking, the following people have offered to haul cattle. Please contact one of these individuals, or any of the organizers on the flyer to schedule the trucking.
Steve Freitas: 209-652-5163 Aaron Matheron: 209-678-2747 Ryan Trinkler: 209-595-3390
If anyone has questions regarding this effort, or the latest information from Cal Poly Dairy, feel free to contact one of the organizers below.
Please send an e-mail to anyone that you feel should have this information. Of course word of mouth and a couple phone calls won't hurt either.
Organizers Anthony Reis: 209-678-3331 Johnnie Azevedo: 209-678-1965 Chris Sawyer: 209-986-5562 Mike Wickstrom: 209-495-8797 Dr. Stan Henderson: 805-756-6112 Rich Silacci: 805-756-1616
Urgent Action Needed: Call Your House Representative Today!
Join in the Fight Against Open Dairy Trade with New Zealand
Support the House Dairy Farmer Caucus Letter to USTR
We're seeking your support for a letter that the House Dairy Farmer Caucus is actively circulating among its members that voices opposition to any further opening of the U.S. dairy market to New Zealand.
The joint letter to U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Kirk raises the concern about how dairy will be treated in the Trans-Pacific Partnership FTA. The TPP FTA is moving forward and includes New Zealand, as well as Australia, Brunie, Chile, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. The Caucus letter urges USTR to consider an exclusion of US-New Zealand dairy trade from this agreement.
We're asking dairy farmers to please contact their House Representative today or tomorrow in order to make them aware of dairy producers' concerns about the inclusion of U.S.-New Zealand dairy trade in the TPP and to urge them to sign onto this letter! For dairy producers concerned about the prospect of totally open access to the U.S. market for one of the world's largest exporters of dairy products, we urge you to make your voices heard now!
The letter will be sent to the U.S. Trade Representative's Office in the next few days. The staff contact for members to sign onto the letter isJake.Oster@mail.house.gov or 202-225-4115.
December 16, 2009
Dairy Farmers Movement for Change Update: December 11, 2009
NYC Food & Climate Summit
Watch a Live Webcast - Hear what consumers are saying about their food
You are invited to watch the LIVE WEBCAST of the PLENARY SESSION for the New York City Food & Climate Summit:
Background: This Summit has had tremendous (unexpected by organizers) response of participation. Two dairy farmers from central NY are on the waiting list. The Summit's brochure says, "A summit for family farmers, community gardeners, concerned citizens, activists, advocates, parents food experts, policy makers, environmentalists, nutritionists, educators, urban planners,urban designers, government, community, business and civic leaders, educators, elected officials, city government leaders. The goal of this Summit is to increase engagement and action around our food system’s role in climate problems and solutions."
In Addition, there will be a conference call tuesday December 15 8:30 est time to discuss Washington DC trip findings and recap.
Tammy Graves
315-858-0163
December 03, 2009
"Dairy Does D.C." Day
Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009
Why: "To have a coast-to-coast, coordinated effort and steadfast presence to gain national attention and meet with our state representatives. Washington D.C. does not understand that the dairy economy is hovering on the brink of collapse. There has never been a better time to send someone from your farm or family to D.C. to deliver a firm message calling for action to secure a future in dairy farming instead of a financial collapse."
"Stay-at-Home" Dairy Does D.C. Action Plan
Please political farm with us on December 2nd.
Items Included Below:
1. Sample letter to email, mail (district office) or fax to your representatives
2. Phone List of NY Congressional Reps.
3. Issues/Talking Points
I am a dealer and will not charge commission. The check on donated cows will go to Cal Poly under the producers name today through 12/31/09.
Valley Livestock
Jeff Stiefel
909-597-8543
Helping Cal Poly Dairy
Hello,
We must help...this dairy is an important "FACE" on our industry. It's location gives tours to 1000's who would NEVER see a dairy...thus those not seeing for themselves being more likely to believe all of the negativity against us
In order to help Cal Poly dairy get some funds to help pay off some of this year's debt, they are continuing the "donate a beef cow" project. David Macedo has agreed to waive commission for cows coming through Tulare Sales Yard on December 1st and the check will go straight to CP Dairy. If we have each dairyman donate one beef cow the support will be huge! I hope you can take the time to do this and support Cal Poly. If you have any questions please call
UPCOMING “DAIRY DOES D.C.” - DAY – Dec. 2
Delivering a Reality Check
COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. – Dairy farmers and their allies will descend on Washington, D.C., Wednesday, Dec. 2. Seats are filling on buses departing from New York and Pennsylvania to Washington, D.C. for appointments with senators and congressmen.
Goals of the upcoming Dairy Does D.C. Day include balancing influence and building bridges. Due to incomplete data and skewed data analysis, our political representatives are being influenced by information that inappropriately portrays the state of the dairy industry.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You need not be in D.C. to be a part of this message delivery. Schedule appointments at your senator and congressman’s local district offices or contact the district offices by mail, fax, phone or email on or around Dec. 2. For communication-related assistance, please contact Tammy Graves of US Dairy Farmers and Friends at usdairyfarmersandfriends@gmail.com
Your message, meeting, call or letter is valuable whether you are a farmer, consumer, breed association member, state assemblyman or senator, Chamber of Commerce member, Land Trust, FFA teacher, agribusiness owner/employee or college faculty or student.
I am a member of Kern County Dairymaids and we are a non-profit company that supports the dairy industry. Specifically we donate one milk cooler a year to a local elementary school, give out approximately $2,500 a year in ag. related scholarships and sponsor the local dairy princess and little miss milkmaid. These young ladies educate kids on the benefits of milk and milk products.
Dairy risk management seminars set for Dec. 15-16 in California
Managing risk price on your dairy will be the topic of an educational seminar set for:
Dec. 15 in Modesto, CA
Dec. 16 in Tulare, CA
The sessions are hosted by:
Western United Dairymen
American AgCredit
Bank of America
Yosemite Farm Credit
Western Milling.
The meetings will provide an introduction to price risk management. Information will be provided by the leading brokers and consultants in the field: Blimling, Downes-O'Neil/FC Stone and First Capitol Ag. Seminar topics include The Changed Economic Landscape; Risk Management as Margin Management and California Uniqueness, Execution and Outlook.
Registration is free to WUD members. Non-member registration fee is $30. Registration deadline is Dec. 9, 2009. Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Heidi Savage at hsavage@westernuniteddairymen.com
UPDATE: Dairy Emergency Hearing - California Department of Food and Agriculture
Dairymen and Vendors,
Here is Linda Lopes' testimony from the CDFA Emergency Hearing. Please take the time to write your testimony in support of a price increase. Linda has until Thursday to turn in her post-hearing brief which should include all of our supporting testimony.
I wrote mine and it included my personal story of the struggles I have been facing during this crisis. It can be candid or can include supporting statistics. Just get it done. Please email it to her by Wednesday night at Ldairy@aol.com or fax them to me (Evelyn Borba) 209.554.8306.
Also, there were not enough dairymen and vendors at the Hearing and the CDFA needs to hear from us. Only 3 people spoke on our behalf during the public testimony portion of the Hearing. Rossi Hay, Genske & Mulder, and A.L. Gilbert. While Processors, like Kraft and Nestle were talking of no need to increase the price milk and going as far as saying that dairy farmers could "ride it out."
Conference Call Agenda:
- Discuss reaction/interest gathered regarding Washington DC trip for December 2.
- Discuss other options for nationwide, unified action. For example, simultaneous meeting to Congressmen and Senators district offices.
Summary of Reaction/Interest to date:
*Most response is from New York farmers. Is no one else outside of the Northeast engaged or do they not see a trip to DC being feasible for them?
*States not as engaged I guess outside the Northeast.
- Brainstorm our messages.
*What do you think about this draft message below?...
“The milk pricing system is broken. Washington D.C. must fix it to maintain food security. Without attention, our food safety will be threatened by methodology sourcing our food needs through food imports from the lowest cost producer, whatever country that may be. Is that what Americans want and accept?"
We look forward to hearing from you and/or joining the call on Monday, Nov. 9 at 12 p.m. EST.
Best regards,
Tammy Graves gravesarborgraphics@yahoo.com 315-858-0163
Bryan Gotham blcgotham@yahoo.com 315-405-6456
Reminder - Dairy Emergency Hearing - California Department of Food and Agriculture
The Hearing details -
Date: November 9th, 2009
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Place: Department Auditorium, 1220 N Street, Sacramento.
CDI (California Dairies Inc.) offers an alternative proposal for Class 1, 2, 3, 4a and 4b hearing.
To: Dairy Marketing Branch
California Department of Food and Agriculture
Regarding: Alternative Proposal for Class 1, 2, 3, 4a and 4b Hearing
"On behalf of its producer-members, California Dairies, Inc. (CDI) respectfully submits this alternative proposal in response to the Notice of Public Hearing issued October 19, 2009."
Who: All Dairy Crisis Interested Parties (farmers, Holstein Association USA, FoodDemocracy Now, Food and Water Watch, Food Declaration, National Family Farm Coalition, Chambers of Commerce, Land Trusts, National Farmers Union, Pro-Ag, Family Farm Defenders, Moms Rising, FFA, agribusiness, financing sectors, students, consumers, Slow Food USA)
Why: To have a coast-to-coast, coordinated effort and steadfast presence to gain national attention and meet with our state representatives. Washington D.C. does not understand that the dairy economy is hovering on the brink of collapse. There has never been a better time to send someone from your farm or family to D.C. to deliver a firm message calling for action to
secure a future in dairy farming instead of a financial collapse.
Want to learn more?
Please email us. RSVP or learn more by contacting, Bryan Gotham, blcgotham@yahoo.com or Find him on Facebook too.
November 4, 2009
I would like you to consider joining a conference call on Monday, Nov. 2 at 12 EST.
It will be to discuss and brainstorm for a monumental dairy farmer rally in Minnesota. The call will be led by Jerry Harvey, a dairy farmer from Iowa that was integral in organizing a rally in Iowa May 30, 2009 and was also involved in the Farm Aid concert. See Jerry's profile video
Conference call number info:
1-605-715-4900 Code 466980#
Thanks for your time.
Tammy Graves
United States Dairy Farmers and Friends - Communications Support
315-858-0163
October 29, 2009
FSA Loan Briefings For Wisconsin Dairy Industry Nov. 2 - 12
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) will be holding briefings for dairy industry professionals across Wisconsin from November 2 – 12. FSA loan officers will discuss the basics of the agency's direct and guaranteed farm loans, and how the agency can respond to the credit needs of livestock and other
farmers.
FSA is a major source of credit for Wisconsin farmers, with over $1 billion in credit extended, and involvement with about 1 out of every 7 farms with direct or guaranteed loans.
Direct loans are made by FSA loan officers and carry a low, fixed interest rate with extended terms.
Humane Society of the United States is Attacking Agriculture Again
Ohio voters will decide next week whether to create a board overseeing livestock care in a move that could give farmers in rural America a blueprint for battling animal rights groups intent on outlawing cramped cages for chickens and hogs.
Animal rights groups, led by the Humane Society of the United States, are targeting the 24 states that allow signature-driven petitions to appear on their ballots.
California Milk Advisory Board Annual Information / Nomination Meeting
District 9 (you can attend any district meeting if convenient)
Wed Oct 28 2009
6pm No Host reception
7pm Dinner NO CHARGE !!!!
Heritage Complex
4500 South Laspina
Tulare, CA 93274
The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will hold a meeting on October 28, 2009 focusing on California’s dairies. California, with 12 percent of the nation’s population, produces 21 percent of the nation’s milk. Declining prices and a decrease in global demand are impacting dairy farmers. The state board will hear from dairy farmers and producers on the issue. The meeting will be from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 ‘N’ Street, Sacramento, CA 95814.
You are invited to a meeting at the World Wide Sires Visitors Center in Visalia, CA. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss ideas about ways to improve the financial position of the Cal Poly Dairy. Thank you for your support.
Date: November 11, 2009 Time: 3:30PM
MEETING LOCATION:
World Wide Sires
5545 Avenida de los Robles
Visalia, CA 93291
Tel: 559-622-2222
I am looking forward to seeing you there.
Dr. Bruce L. Golden
Professor and Head
Dairy Science Department
California Polytechnic State University
Building 10, room 121
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407
Ph: +01 (805) 756-2560
Fx: +01 (805) 756-6667
Dairy Emergency Hearing - California Department of Food and Agriculture
The California Department of Food and Agriculture has announced the call of a hearing on an emergency basis. The Department will accept alternative proposals until October 28, 2009.
A group of very concerned Alumni, Industry and Friends of Cal Poly Dairy Science have come together to offer alternative solutions to help save the Cal Poly Dairy. The letter above says, all but 30 of these genetically superior cattle will be sold, the years of progressive breeding and superior genetics will cease to exist if this drastic and rash decision takes place.
Read the Call to Action letter
Cow tail docking made illegal in California
The bill, authored by state Senate Majority Leader Dean Florez, D-Shafter, was supported by the Humane Society of the United States, as well as the California Veterinary Medical Association, ASPCA, California Cattlemen’s Association and California Farm Bureau.
Northeast Dairy Farmers File Suit Against DFA and Dean Foods
The suit charges DFA and Dean each with monopolizing a level of distribution of fluid milk in the Northeast and forcing dairy farmers to join DFA or its marketing affiliate Dairy Marketing Services (DMS) to survive. DMS and milk processor HP Hood also were named in the suit for aiding DFA's and Dean's monopolization and, in the case of DMS for price-fixing with DFA.
Read the Full Story
Labor Workshop Oct. 22 in Modesto, CA
Labor attorney Anthony Raimondo will provide the latest information on wage and hour requirements and answer questions about other labor issues.
Date: Thursday, October 22 Time: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Stanislaus County Farm Bureau office, 1201 L Street, Modesto, CA.
For more information, contact Western United Dairymen field representative Darrin Soares at (209) 535-7881.
October 5, 2009 -
“Cargill remains committed to the dairy industry and has a significant stake in its success,” says Joe Stone, president of Cargill Animal Nutrition.
Cargill’s recent launch of an ingredient for use in making non-dairy cheese has raised concerns by some in the U.S. dairy industry that it will hurt dairy producers. We want to clarify and further explain that the product, Lygomme™ ACH Optimum, functions as a casein replacement for non-dairy cheese applications. It meets a specific nutritional need for those who have dairy allergies, and helps food manufacturers address challenges within the current casein supply chain, which in the U.S. is imported. Lygomme ACH Optimum is one of a wide array of food innovations developed by Cargill to meet specific customer needs.
“Cargill remains committed to the dairy industry and has a significant stake in its success,” says Joe Stone, president of Cargill Animal Nutrition. “These efforts range from introducing cholesterol-reducing plant sterols into dairy products to enhance their marketability, to helping specialty cheese makers increase cheese productivity through specialized culture systems, to helping dairy producers enhance their dairy animals’ productivity through a patented nutrition management system. As a longstanding and active member in number of dairy councils nationally and internationally, we are committed to the success of the dairy industry and continue to closely collaborate with our dairy partners to help advance their growth and success.”
CWT ANNOUNCES THIRD HERD RETIREMENT OF 2009 Maximum Level of Bids Again Capped At $5.25; Two-Week Window to Participate
Cargill creates breakthrough for "dairy-free" analogue cheese production with Lygomme™ ACH Optimum functional system
"Cheese represents approximately 15 percent of a pizza recipe and given its high and fluctuating price, it can have a significant impact on the cost of frozen pizza production. In order to protect their margins, manufacturers have traditionally had to choose between raising pizza prices, limiting portion sizes, or using a blend of different cheeses depending on their current market value."
Please Send Letters to Congress
This was my letter sent out below. I have also posted this on my blog. Feel free to copy paste and or make your own letter.
I am not sure that those speaking for us have our best interests at heart. We must speak on our behalf.
I used Dairy Farmers of America mail system www.capwiz.com/dfamilk
Message sent to the following recipients:
Senator Boxer
Senator Feinstein
Representative Costa
President
September 27, 2009 -
Unions give $1 million to UFW to fight water bonds
A national union coalition has poured $1 million into a newly formed arm of the United Farm Workers to oppose a potential, multibillion-dollar water bond package on California's statewide ballot.
California - Union organizing activity in Kern County
United Food and Commercial Workers Local 5, the primary union that organizes dairies, has filed Notices of Intent to Take Access (NA) on three Kern County dairies. An NA allows union organizers to enter the dairy property without the consent of the dairyman to talk to employees during their non-working times (before and after work, and during meal times) about the union.
This is an important tool that unions use to organize dairy operations. Any employer who receives an NA should seek experienced labor counsel immediately.
This recent activity shows that the economic crisis in the dairy industry will not dissuade the union from organizing dairies. In this time of economic crisis, union organizing presents an even greater threat to dairies than ever before. As dairies struggle to make ends meet, it will be difficult to invest in fighting the union, but even more difficult to face the cost of resisting the union's demands in contract negotiations. All dairy employers must have labor relations strategies in place, and must be prepared to confront the threat of unionization.
The threat is even greater, as a Bay Area law firm has been monitoring union organizing in the dairy industry, and has taken advantage of the turmoil to find employees willing to sue dairies for wage and hour violations whether or not the union is successful in the organizing campaign. Dairies are finding themselves successful in fighting the union, only to find themselves fighting lawsuits after the union is gone. Compliance must be a priority, and dairies must be sure to be in compliance with recordkeeping, overtime, minimum wage, and meal and rest period requirements.
The goal of this article is to provide employers with current labor and employment law information. The contents should not be interpreted or construed as legal advice or opinion.
McCormick, Barstow, Sheppard, Wayte & Carruth in Fresno, CA
A group of dairyman are working to unite the dairy industry in fighting for better milk prices and help in the current Dairy crisis. They have developed a survey to better understand where producers are coming from.
If you would like to participate please click here for the survey.
September 17, 2009 -
Contact Elected Officials To Urge For Cheese Purchase!
Food banks in dire need! Cheese is piled high in inventory (supposedly, I guess we don’t really know that since they are not required to formal audits)!
What is DFA’s short-term plan?
Within the attached plan, as proposed, many board members will not have put any money into the CWT coffers, but will have input as to how the money will be spent. Why are we considering more board members that have potential self-interest conflicts?
California Water -
SEAN HANNITY DOING LIVE SHOW IN THE VALLEY ON WATER FOR FULL HOUR
Some of you may know by now, but Sean Hannity from FoxNews with be coming to the Valley. This time he is coming in person to do his entire show, Hannity, from the westside. Obviously, this is another important opportunity to highlight the serious issues we face here in the Valley, and to bring attention to the government imposed drought that we are all suffering through.
Details are below:
What: LIVE on the Sean Hannity Show for FoxNews When: Thursday, September 17th, 2009 Time: Show goes live at 6:00pm (my suggestion is to plan on arriving by 5:00pm, because we are expecting THOUSANDS of people to attend) Where: A fallowed field on the Westside in Fresno County (Tomatoes were grown on this land in 2008, but in 2009 NOTHING was planted because of the water cut-off)
Location: Located on the south side of Highway 198, to the west of the Fresno/Kings County line. The field is exactly 8 miles WEST of Lemoore Naval Air Station. The field is very easy to find, because the main entrance is marked with a speed limit sign and a white wrought iron gate. (See photo of entrance attached)
Also, the area will be clearly marked with signs and banners.
As it stands now, parking will be available on the shoulder of Hwy 198, or in the field adjacent to the field we are using for the set. The producers for Hannity have been in contact with the CA Highway Patrol, and they will be on hand to assist with directing traffic, and to help with security.
The Latino Water Coalition has graciously agreed to provide porta-potties, and Families Protecting the Valley has agreed to provide complimentary bottled water (much like they did for the Hannity event in Huron in August).
A letter to DFA from Gary Genske It is time for DFA to help its membership. If those who control DFA will not pursue immediate and meaningful improvement to your membership's milk pay prices, I suggest you resign your positions and allow those who are in top management, who can more effectively balance the needs of the producers and of DFA, to move this co-op forward.
Read The Full Letters
Call for Attendance to Sen. Gillibrand Dairy Hearing
Legislative Responses to the Dairy Crisis:
Reforming the Pricing Structure in Batavia
Who: Dairy Farmers When: Thursday, Aug. 27 - 2 p.m. Where: Batavia, NY - Genesee County Community College (in the forum of main building on campus)
Why Attend: Sen. Gillibrand is Chair of the Subcommittee that deals with the federal milk marketing orders. The committee name is Domestic Foreign Marketing, Inspection, and Plant and Animal Health.
Hearing Goals: Identifying the major problems of the current dairy pricing system and determining effective solutions moving forward.
Mail:
Kenneth B. Keating Federal Office Building
100 State Street, Room 4195
Rochester, NY 14614
RSVP to Sen. Gillibrand's Rochester office: (585) 263-6250
August 21, 2009 -
Letter from CowsAndCrops member
Can you post this and tell everyone to pass it on?
I want to collect stories from dairy farmers on how the crisis is affecting them ,their families and their communities. I am going to compile them all and fax to our legislators. The more stories the better. I am hoping for hundreds. If people have a digital picture of their family or dairy farm, have them send that too. We need to put a face (or hundreds of faces) on this crisis and we need our voices heard. They can email me their story at windmillfarmdairy@gmail.com
We might get a response when the legislators get a couple hundred page fax!!!! So pass it on to everyone you know.
Thanks!
Janice
Todd & Janice Grimes
Windmill Farm Dairy
Webster, IA
641-660-8020
To all: This group of dairy leaders represents well over half of the milk production in this country.
As coop leaders, we producers have always counted on you to protect us from the economic situation I refer to in the attachment. We ship all of our milk to you because we have a contract, and it includes your obligation to market, not just move our milk. To date, I have not received any plan to rectify this situation from any coop and your producers continue to lose $4 per day per cow (ave), that is $36M per day and over $1 Billion in operating losses each month by the 60,000 dairy producers of this country. We need you to support and promote some of the emergency legislative bills that have been introduced to provide immediate relief. Your continued silence in these matters will not result in any favorable outcome for anyone
Gary Genske
Genske, Mulder Co.
Read the Letters from Both Mr. Genske and IDFA Click Here
Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack will visit Modesto, CA for a luncheon listening session
When: Wednesday Aug. 26 Where: Stanislaus County Ag Center in the Harvest Hall Time: 12:30 p.m.
Lunch is optional and seating will be limited.
RSVP’s are requested to Rep. Dennis Cardoza Modesto office at
(209) 527-1914 or email lisa.mantarro@mail.house.gov
March on Sacramento 8.28.09
Join Us to Make A difference
On August 28, groups who have never come together before, farmers, ranchers,
miners, loggers, trucking companies, cement makers, builders...productive,
hard working people from all political parties, social affiliations and
industries will descend on the state capitol in Sacramento.
When: Friday, August 28th Time: 12:00 - 5:00pm Where: Sacramento Capital Steps
Milk support price increase announced today will raise the price paid for nonfat dry milk from $0.80 per pound to $0.92 per pound, the price paid for cheddar blocks from $1.13 per pound to $1.31 per pound, and the price of cheddar barrels from $1.10 per pound to $1.28 per pound. This increase in the support price will have an immediate effect upon dairy farmers’ bottom line. Temporarily raising the price of these dairy products increases the price that dairy farmers receive for their milk.
July 31, 2009 -
Assemblymen Magee and Lopez are proposing $60 Million of the states Federal Stimulus Package be used to help NY Dairy Farmers in this time of crisis.
They are asking farmers and consumers call or email Governor Paterson's office to act!!
Below is the email address and phone number to call.
To Write To The Governor:
David A. Paterson
State Capitol
Albany, NY 12224
Secretary of Agriculture agrees to increase the Dairy Price Support Program
In a meeting with U.S. Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., and other senators Wednesday, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack agreed to raise the floor for dairy prices through an increase in the Dairy Price Support Program, according to a news release from Udall’s office. Vilsack also said he would encourage federal and private banks to be lenient with dairy farmers with outstanding loans, according to the release.
Click here for article
Email from a CowsAndCrops member received today 07/30/09
I talked to Feinstein's (Senator from CA) man this morning and he said there is nothing official yet. He said it will be some time next week. He also said that he was happy that Vilsack was talking considerably higher that WUD was asking for. He said that raising the support price is the way that Vilsack wants to help the dairy industry. This sounds good and we need to encourage him by calling his office. This would really help all of us.
Congressional press conference to announce the reformation of the caucus and address the crisis facing dairy farmers.
WHEN:
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
10:00 AM Eastern Time/9:00 AM Central/8:00 AM Mountain/7:00 AM Pacific
Tuesday, July 28 – 10:00 a.m.
Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry – Public Hearing
RE: To review economic conditions facing the dairy industry, part three.
Congressman Jim Costa (D-Fresno) said
"The Industry needs to come together"
Topic:
Open Forum on the
Holstein Association USA
Dairy Price Stabilization Program
When: July 29, 2009 Time: 9:30am - 12:00
Where:
Escalon Livestock Market
25525 Lone Tree Rd
Escalon, CA 95320
(209) 838-7011
Contact: Hank van Exel (209) 810-0880.
July 24, 2009 -
Transportation to the House Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry Meeting
Chartered bus has been reserved
"Dairy Producer's voices need to be heard first hand!!"
Transportation Details: Leaving: Oneonta Bus Line in Oneonta, NY @ midnight on Monday July 27th Returning: Approximately 11:00 p.m. on Tues. July 28th Cost: $50 per person
An email from a CowsAndCrops Member in response to contacting her U.S Senator
Just got off the phone to Barbara Boxer's offices both in Washington 202-224-3553 (Amanda), and San Rafael, CA (415-403-0100.
I asked to speak to someone who was familiar with dairy issues, both who answered the phone said they could help me. Asked each of them to please ask Barbara to use her power to help the DAIRYMEN. Told them we, personally, were in danger of loosing our dairy business and farm as were many other U.S. farmers. NEITHER ONE OF THEM HAD A CLUE WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT. I kid you not. I was told to write a letter regarding a specific issue and they would "start the paperwork".
Please have everyone you can think of call Boxer's office today at 202-224-3553. The secretary (Amanda) needs to have a very bad day.
Marilyn
The House Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry is holding a Public Hearing on Tuesday, July 28 – 10:00 a.m. ET
July 16, 2009 -
Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces Availability of $760 Million In Direct Loans To Farmers And Producers Click Here for News Release
July 13, 2009 -
Senate bill 787 - The Clean Water Restoration Act
Congress Moves To Seize Control Of All U.S. Waters
-----Do you want the Corps and EPA in your backyard?
-----Do you want the EPA and Corps to control your water?
-----Do you want the Corps and EPA to control all your watersheds that means all your land too?
------That’s what will happen if the new Clean Water Restoration Act (CWRA) (S787) passes Congress.
California Coop Board Members only meeting
The four Coops MAC (Marketing Agency in Common) meeting
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Holiday Inn Visalia, CA
10:00 a.m.
CRISIS IN THE DAIRY INDUSTRY: EMERGENCY MEETING ON JULY 17
( Delhi , NY ) An emergency meeting to provide information to dairy producers has been set for Friday, July 17 at 10 a.m. on the campus of Morrisville State College in Morrisville , NY . Click here for details
July 10, 2009 -
CWT ANNOUNCES SECOND HERD RETIREMENT OF 2009 Time Frame to Submit Bids Shortened, Maximum Bid Level Set
“To expedite and simplify the bidding process, CWT will consider bids up to, but not to exceed $5.25 per hundredweight.
Bids must be postmarked July 24th.
Click here for details
July 8, 2009 -
California SB135 - Prohibits tail "docking" of cattle
The bill SB135 is authored by California state Senator Dean Florez
(D-Shafter)
A law to end the practice of "Tail Docking Dairy Cattle" passed the California Assembly Ag Committee on a 6-to-1 vote.
An amendment was added by the committee to remove the requirement that any emergency tail docking be reported to CDFA within 30 days. Click here for the bill
July 7, 2009 -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said Monday he will soon announce a plan to make it easier for dairy farmers to take out new loans or keep up with their existing payments. The plan, to be released in the next week or so, includes providing farmers with operating loans at lower interest rates, reducing the principle of outstanding loans or allowing farmers to forgo payments for a time, Vilsack said. The agriculture department also is working with commercial lenders to guarantee loans to dairy farmers, he said. Click for BusinessWeek Article
July 2, 2009 -
The Obama administration announced a crackdown Wednesday on hundreds of companies suspected of employing illegal immigrants, signaling a shift in
strategy: going after employers instead of workers. Click here for The Wall Street Journal article
July 2, 2009 -
Bank of America offers HSUS (Humane Society of the United States) checking and credit cards
Internet communities of farmers and ranchers are buzzing with news the Bank of America is partnering with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). The bank’s MyExpression program is offering an HSUS checking account and associated Visa check card as well as an HSUS Visa credit card. Both of these products financially support HSUS.
According to the Bank of America Web site, it will donate 25 cents to the animal rights organization for every $100 in purchases made with the HSUS
WorldPoints Platinum Plus Visa credit card. Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of HSUS, is quoted as saying “This is a great way to support the work of The Humane Society of the United States. When you open your account, and each time you make an eligible purchase with your Bank of America VISA check card, you'll support our mission to combat animal cruelty and care for animals in need.”
CattleNetwork yesterday issued a template
letter for livestock producers to submit to Bank of America expressing their concerns about providing financial support to HSUS. Trained beef industry spokespeople alerted one another to the news via the Masters of Beef Advocacy program alumni site yesterday. Several reported sending letters to local Bank of America branches.
A Bank of America senior vice president in Amarillo, Texas, issued a letter to the cattle industry today. CattleNetwork posted and circulated the letter, which references the importance of the industry to Bank of America and says “the matter has been elevated and is being looking into so that we can further address your concerns.”
Concerned producers should contact Bank of America using the template letter or materials about HSUS from the Center
for Consumer Freedom. Bank of America can be contacted by mail (Bank of America Corporate Center, 100 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28255) or e-mail (Nicole Nastacie, BOA Corporate Philanthropy – nicole.nastacie@bankofamerica.com). Comments also can be posted to the bank’s blog (http://futurebanking.bankofamerica.com/), shared with the official Bank of America representative on Twitter (http://twitter.com/BofA_help) or posted to the bank’s Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Bank-of-America/25163544074?ref=s).
