Michigan United Dairy Industry set up Justin Abdelkader’s visit
IMLAY CITY — Local dairy farmer Kip Siegler has had a brush with fame last week.
This time in the person of former Detroit Red Wing Justin Abdelkader, AKA Michigan’s newest version of “Mr. Hockey.”
Kip Siegler (left) is pictured with his recent guests, former Detroit Red Wing Justin Abdelkader and wife, Julie.
Despite his prowess and successes on the ice, Abdelkader had never before set foot on a dairy farm.
But, now he has.
Siegler said it was an unexpected call from the United Dairy Industry of Michigan last week that informed him of Abdelkader’s upcoming visit to Imlay City.
“He (Abdelkader) helps us promote our chocolate milk; the best recovery drink out there,” Siegler opined. “We were extremely honored that out of all the farms in Michigan, they thought of us.
Siegler said Abdelkader brought along his wife and child and a good time was had by all.
Though the visit was intended to last just an hour, the visitors ended up walking the grounds and sharing stories for more than two hours.
“They were very down-to-earth,” Siegler said. “We were happy to be able to have the opportunity to represent Imlay City in a positive light.”
Siegler added that the farm marked its 70th year in business this month.
“It’s our goal to go for another 70,” he said.
Tom Wearing started at the Tri-City Times in 1989, covering the Village of Capac as a beat reporter. He later served stints as assistant editor and editor. Today, he covers Imlay City and Almont as a staff writer. He enjoys music and plays drums and sings with various musical groups in the Detroit Metropolitan area.
