Twenty dairy promoters recognized for combined308 years of educating and promoting

Twenty dairy industry promoters from across Michigan were recognized recently by the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) for their combined 308 years of volunteer service as members of the state's Dairy Diplomat Committee (DDC).

The DDC, a grassroots effort led by Michigan's dairy farmers, was formed more than 30 years ago to help increase the sale of dairy products by promoting and educating consumers about the nutritional benefits of consuming dairy products as part of a healthy diet.

Committee members were recognized for their commitment to extending dairy promotions in their respective counties and partnering with organizations across the state to help organize and coordinate educational and promotional events.

"The United Dairy Industry of Michigan is appreciative of the years of commitment and service these dairy industry volunteers contributed to the Dairy Diplomat Committee," said Sharon Toth, chief executive officer of the UDIM.

Toth added, "We honor each member's longstanding commitment to promotion and educating families on the importance of getting three servings of dairy each day."

Recognized for their years of commitment to the dairy industry at a luncheon held Nov. 13 were: Margaret Bandkau, Owosso, 25 years; Cheri Chapin, Remus, 19 years; Gloria Crandall, Battle Creek, 11 years; Leona Daniels, Sterling, 29 years; Shirley Hazle, St. Johns, 31 years (charter member); Kathy Heisler, Springport, 10 years; Audrey Herioux, Bark River, five years; Stephanie Leipprandt, Caseville, four years; Annie Link, Alto, one year; Sara Long, Lansing, 12 years; Connie Lucas, Posen, two years; Joy Marvin, Clayton, 29 years; Mary Nichol, Deckerville, 26 years; Debbie Rasmussen, Sheridan, 13 years; Barb Roth, Lowell, 24 years; Julie Schwab, Standish, 31 years (charter member); Marianne Sickels, Bronson, 25 years; Rosemarie Stieg, Hersey, one year; Joan Weber, Leslie, four years; and Joanmarie Weiss, Frankenmuth, six years.

Each DDC member was presented with a framed certificate of recognition and a dairy products package containing a cutting board and a variety of specialty cheeses from the Michigan State University (MSU) Dairy Store packed in a decorative cooler.

The UDIM is the umbrella organization for the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council of Michigan. These non-profit organizations provide dairy product promotion and nutrition education services on behalf of Michigan's dairy farmers.

For additional information, contact Staci Garcia, UDIM executive director of communications, at 800-241-6455 (MILK).