Governor's proclamation recognized 100 years of dairy farmers' contributions to health and wellness
Governor Terry Branstad joined Midwest Dairy Council in recognizing Iowa dairy farmers and celebrating National Dairy Council's 100th anniversary during an event Friday, April 17 at the Iowa State Capitol.
The event featured remarks from Governor Branstad and Lee Maassen of Maassen Dairy, recognizing the commitment of Iowa's dairy farmers to the health and wellness of all Americans. The Governor also issued a proclamation declaring Thursday, April 16 "National Dairy Council Day" in Iowa, followed by a ceremonial "milk toast" to commemorate the occasion.
"Through its health and wellness initiatives, nutrition research and public advocacy, National Dairy Council has been a key driver for educating Iowans and the nation about the dietary benefits of dairy products and the importance of dairy to a healthy lifestyle," said Governor Branstad. "It is my honor to congratulate and thank Iowa's dairy farmers on their commitment and hard work."
Since its founding in 1915, National Dairy Council has helped people live healthier lives by communicating the nutrient-rich value of dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt in an overall balanced diet. Guided by science, National Dairy Council brings to life a shared vision for a healthy, joyful and sustainable world and a dedication to healthy products, healthy people, healthy communities and a healthier planet now and for future generations.
"Producing food for the world has been our passion for five generations and we wouldn't trade it for anything else," said Maassen, whose family has been farming in Sioux County for more than a century. "Dairy farms like ours are typically passed down from generation to generation, and we look forward to continuing the legacy of bringing nutritious dairy products to market and supporting our collective health and wellbeing for the next hundred years."
Representatives from the Iowa Department of Agriculture, Iowa Department of Public Health and Iowa Department of Education also attended the event.
Midwest Dairy Council®, an affiliate of National Dairy Council, is the nutrition education division of Midwest Dairy Association. The Council is dedicated to dairy nutrition research and education through the investment of 8,000 dairy farm families across 10 Midwestern states, and is committed to child health and wellness through our collaborative program, Fuel Up to Play 60. For more information, visit www.midwestdairy.com. Follow us on Twitter and find us on Facebook at Midwest Dairy.4.28.2015