70 people gathered in the haybarn on Jeff and Heidi Miller’s farm east of Bellechester to celebrate the Goodhue County Holstein Association’s 80th Anniversary. Current board and committee members, Charlie Dicke, Dean Opsahl, Paul Nibbe, Tony Scheffler, Brian Clemenson, Beth Brekke, Kay Schwartau and Dave Betcher began planning in 2025, working with the Millers to host the special edition of the club’s annual Twilight Meeting. The 7 PM meeting time, wide-open doors, and a few fans eased the July 14th “Cow Appreciation Day’s” mid-upper 90s temperatures.
Dave Betcher and Dean Opsahl gave a power point presentation on club history, calling on any former members in attendance to share additional information. Beth Brekke spoke on the history of the county’s Junior association and Clara Benrud talked about her experience attending the 2026 National Junior Holstein convention in Orlando, Florida where she placed third in the junior division of the Dairy Jeopardy contest.
The Millers have no cattle on their farm but brought in a few heifers as the star players in a round of cowpie bingo. Each square sold for $10 with the winner – determined by where the first cowpie lands – receiving half of the money. Member, Kevin Schafer conducted an auction of donated items including a Red Holstein calf provided by Dean Opsahl of Goodhue and purchased by Brian Clemenson of Zumbrota. The fundraising efforts brought in over $2500.00.
Members and guests enjoyed socializing and viewing an assortment of photos, prize ribbons, and local farm and Goodhue County Holstein sale catalogs dating back to the 1950s. Ice Cream was donated by the Goodhue County American Dairy Association and served by Goodhue County Dairy Ambassadors along with cake provided by the club.
