(February 8, 2008) Ten California dairy producers have been appointed for a one-year term to the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) Dairy Confidence Committee, which serves as the CMAB's liaison to the California Dairy Research Foundation in Davis. Randy Mouw of Chino will again serve as chairman. Other committee members are: Johan Bartelink of Escalon; Jim Tiemersma of Visalia; Richard Michel of Waterford; Tony Souza Jr. of Tulare; Ann Silva of Tracy; Ronald Koetsier of Visalia; Tony Machado of Merced; Margo Souza of Turlock; and Pat Van Dam of Chino. The committee's role is to evaluate dairy health issues and academic and non-academic research proposals in terms of potential influence on the consumer's perception of dairy practices. While the proposals are reviewed for improvement in herd health and product quality, these factors play into the overall ability to successfully market dairy products. California is the nation's leading milk producer and also produces more butter, ice cream, yogurt and nonfat dry milk than any other state. The state is the second-largest producer of cheese, which is available nationally under the Real California Cheese seal.