Christine Reitsma Sauk Centre, Minnesota 59th Princess Kay of the Milky Way Midwest Dairy Association www.facebook.com/PrincessKayOfTheMilkyWay
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
Growing up on my family’s dairy farm, I have learned a lot about the everyday happenings on a farm and in the dairy industry. I took an abundant amount of agriculture courses in high school and am now a freshman in college where I am studying agriculture – applied economics with an emphasis in the dairy industry.
Please describe your agricultural background.
I was raised on my family’s 100-cow Holstein dairy farm. My duties on the farm include feeding calves, pushing up feed, cleaning lots, fieldwork and helping out wherever I am needed.
What are your new responsibilities?
As Princess Kay of the Milky Way, I serve as the goodwill ambassador for Minnesota’s dairy industry. Throughout my reign, I will travel the state visiting classrooms and sharing the importance of drinking milk. I will also serve as a guest speaker at many banquets, fairs and meetings.
What previous positions have you held?
Before becoming Princess Kay of the Milky Way, I served as a Stearns County dairy princess.
What excites you most about this opportunity?
The chance to make a difference in the dairy industry. I have been given the opportunity to help children and parents understand the importance of dairy in their everyday life, as well as sharing the story of dairy farming all over the state of Minnesota.
How will you be of help to dairy producers?
I have the opportunity to be the voice of Minnesota’s dairy farmer. I am able to visit with many people who have no connections with agriculture and teach them about how much farmers care for not only the animals they provide for but also for the people in the communities and the world.
Why did you apply to be Princess Kay?
Ever since I was a child, I have looked to Princess Kay as a role model in my life. I wanted to have the chance to be that role model for others. I also wanted to help people understand the importance of having three servings of dairy every day.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
One of my main goals is to influence children into making healthy choices. Drinking milk, eating healthy, and making sure to exercise are three areas children need to learn in order to live a healthy lifestyle.
A second goal of mine is to help many people that do not live on or have any connections to farms build an understanding of how dairy products move from the farm to their table. PD
