Progressive Times Fall 2015 MN Select Sires Volume1 | Page 9

‘Think Globally-Act Locally’ that’s what we do for you! A global company, Select Sires, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the productivity and profitability of dairy and beef producers. But, the beauty of Select Sires’ structure here in the U.S. is that it is comprised of nine farmer owned and controlled cooperatives that are focused on the local needs of their own members. As customer-owners of Minnesota Select Sires Co-op, Inc., you expect your cooperative to profitably serve your herd’s genetic development and reproductive needs. We are built to serve the type of producers that expect results---the best their available dollars can buy. AND we do it with local expertise, local employees who are part of your community, working together for strong beef and dairy industries in Minnesota and North Dakota. 2015’s business year is much stronger than anticipated. This is a great sign that our customers’ businesses have remained healthy following a year like 2014. You’ll find the growth of the Coop this year is coming very strongly from both dairy and beef customers. Our professional service teams are hard at work heat detecting and inseminating while our genetic and reproductive technical experts are providing additional guidance. We’ve also seen a strong continued investment in cow monitoring systems and this year the CowManager system is leading the charge. I’m extremely proud to be part of the growing number of individuals that are making success happen every day. With 55 passionate, dedicated employees, your cooperative is strong, growing and local. By Chris Sigurdson General Manager Phone: [phone] Email: [email protected] Apply For Scholarships By Oct. 31 T oday’s youth are the agricultural leaders of tomorrow. Minnesota Select Sires is continuing its tradition of supporting the future of the local dairy industry by awarding scholarships to students pursuing agricultural careers. The cooperative inaugurated the program 14 years ago. Minnesota Select Sires General Manager Chris Sigurdson comments, “This scholarship program is one part of our effort to be a foundational “champion” of the local dairy and beef industries. The program has allowed us to get a great sense of the impact our leaders of tomorrow are already having on our industry. Being responsive to our members’ needs is one of the fundamental goals of our cooperative, and helping their children achieve their educational pursuits has been well received.” Chris notes that considerably fewer students have applied for the scholarships in the last couple of years and encourages all eligible students to apply. Two deserving students were selected as winners of the $500 scholarships this year. This year’s winners are: Andrew Krause, son of Charles and Robyn Krause, Buffalo, MN; Susan Hintz, daughter of Bob and Debbie Hintz, Flasher, ND. Qualifying candidates must be a family member of a Minnesota Select Sires cooperative member in good standing, and must be completing at least the first semester of the second year in a two or four year program. Applicants need to submit an application, grade transcripts, and a written essay. In a blinded approach to judging, the selection committee evaluates 1) dairy industry pursuits, 2) academic achievement, 3) active involvement in activities aligned with support of the dairy industry. If you or someone you know is interested in this year’s scholarship, applications are due October 31, 2015. For more information, contact Minnesota Select Sires at 800-795-1233 or mnselect@mnss. coop. Minnesota Select Sires