Football and farming. For many teenagers growing up on a family-owned dairy, this is a familiar combination. For Doug Mielke, who took over the farm from his father at age 12, however, the balancing act looked a bit different.

The dispersal sale of Indianhead Holsteins on April 7 may have signaled an end, but the couple behind the farm is not retired yet. Bob and Karyn Schauf owned Indianhead Holsteins of Barron, Wisconsin, which became world-renowned over the last three decades.

Fred and Donna Barringer, co-founders of the recently dispersed Hill-Over Holsteins and Swiss herd, are longtime dairy farmers in Copake, New York, with a passion and dedication to the dairy industry.

Late last year, an outstanding Illinois Holstein herd dispersed, but as the barn door closed, other doors opened up for Boyd and Sandy Schaufelberger and the legacy of Schaufine Farms.

World Dairy Expo Virtual Farm Tours have been bringing the best dairy operations in North America to Madison for more than 15 years. The eight dairies selected this year are no exception, featuring technology and innovation, outstanding milk production and genetics, strong community ties and first-generation immigrant farmers, top-notch cow and calf care, and an expanding dairy.

Over five days, 16 judges will place more than 2,000 head of cattle during World Dairy Expo’s 51st show. Don’t miss your chance to watch cows and heifers of your favorite breeds battle it out on the colored shavings.

I have had four granddaughters born in the last year. When you have 11 children, it isn’t strange to see the babies come in multiples. It is amazing to see each one. They are all sweet and unique. Each has her own personality and certainly her own temperament, and I am sure each has her own mission while in this life.

Since wheel loaders are often a staple machine on many dairy farms today, it’s critical for producers to understand the machines are not designed like they were 20 or even 10 years ago. They require special care, particularly the diesel engine and emission systems.

My grandpa, George Elbert, was an extraordinary man who ruled his spirit and tongue like few people I’ve ever known. His life was not an easy one, but it certainly was a blessed one.

One yacht owner flew in a tiger so his guests could take selfies with it. Another got bored and ordered a group of dwarfs to waterski around his boat for a laugh.