Rissie Woodward has been named the 2020 June Dairy Month chairman for Hamilton County.
Co-sponsored by The Dairy Alliance, 4-H and the Tennessee Farm Bureau, June Dairy Month
activities are designed to communicate the value of milk and other dairy products to Tennessee
consumers.
"Chairpersons play a vital role in spreading dairy’s message in their communities," officials said.
“I am passionate about the dairy industry because dairy gives people nutrients such as calcium,
potassium, vitamin D and protein,” Ms. Woodward said. “These nutrients make your bones stronger and your teeth healthier.”
Ms. Woodword, a seventh grader at Loftis Middle School, is the daughter of Bambi and Tim Woodward. She is part of her school’s Student Council, BETA Club, band and chorus. She is a
member of Grace United Methodist Church. Ms. Woodword is an active member of her 4-H chapter, participating in contests for public speaking, demonstration, photography and themed posters.
“We wish Rissie much success in her role of communicating the nutritional benefits of milk and
dairy products to the people in Hamilton County,” said American Dairy Association of Tennessee President Celeste Blackburn. “Rissie will appreciate the cooperation of the people there. Her interest and enthusiasm will result in a better informed community from which all will benefit.”
Officials said, "Originally deemed “National Milk Month” by American grocers in 1937, National Dairy Month began to promote dairy consumption during peak milk production in the summer. Today, it continues celebrating with the Southeast’s communities and companies through festivals,
contests and even a special night dedicated to dairy farmers at the ballpark.
"In 2019, there were an estimated 32,000 Tennessee dairy cows living on 200 dairy farms
producing 64.1 million gallons, or approximately 551 million pounds, of milk. The top five milk
producing Tennessee counties were: Loudon, Bradley, Monroe, Bedford and McMinn.
"This year’s theme, 'The Art of Dairy,' encourages families to make milk their first beverage
choice due to its unique package of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are an essential part of a
healthy diet. With local media and farm bureaus, dairy farmers will be working alongside The
Dairy Alliance to engage consumers through social media, radio contests, T-shirt giveaways,
events and more.
"For more information on how you can celebrate June Dairy Month, visit
us online at www.thedairyalliance.com/june-dairy-month."