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List $27.14 Sale $21.61 Size /I Teeth Ust Sale 61/2 20 $15.80 $10.51 71/4 24 16.30 10.84 8 30 19.45 12.93 Crescent- 10 9 30 20.50 13.62 36 24.00 15.93 Heavy Duty Fence 1boI 10 60 58.85 39.13 WISS GIFT SET Cat. No. GS.C List $20.00 8" Dressmaker shears plus 4 V2 quicksnips Sale $9.91 Crescent8 Tongue & Groove Pliers Open to Public - Stop In, Cushioned Grip. Call or Use This Order Form ~ ~2- Payment: 0 Check 0 Visa 0 MasterCard - Card Number: -- \\'1 =. 10" List $10.15 16" List $18.35 Exp. Date Signature: Sale $5.99 Sale $12.23 TV ORDER NO. PRICEEACH TOTAL tl ! ~ . ~ l). ii~ "II< ~ _ List $44.55 Sale $29.61 XC ELITE ~ /- LutkJn- SD II dw~lCIeI- • Revolutionary new design. Fast extend and rewind. Sure-grip • Easy to read blade Sub Total 4% Tax Ust Sale ~ Nutdriver kit 3/8 x 50' $16.05 $10.65 TOTAL 3/8 x 100' 21.90 14.54 Ship to: ~ Inch sizes .. /lH5-6 In a case .... 10 sizes: 3/16" - 9/16" - List $32.38 . Luftdn- Unilok ~_ Sale $25.79 ~ -...• Strong.matt case. b!ack Ughtweight ~ • Toggle lOck • COsh- ~ , . ion8dblade retum Make Check Out To and Mail To: Metric sizes Ust Sale /14-13 mm In a case 10 sizes: 4 mm • 13 mm 3/4 x 16' 3/4 x 25' $10.40 12.45 $ 6.89 7.89 The Chas. A. Strelinger Co. List $33.33 Sale $26.55 l' x 25' l'x30' 15.60 17.15 8.89 10.89 31855 Van Dyke 268-4100 Warren, MI 48090 Mon.-Fri. 8-5 DECEMBER 1984 FARM NEWS VOL. 63 NO. 12 A publication THE COVER of the Organizers predict Michigan's Cherry Bowl will be a star Michigan destined event for the state. Farm Bureau The inaugural game is Dec. 22. In this issue: Cherry Bowl Say "Yes!" to the state's first collegiate bowl game, Dec. 22 8 Merry Christmas, Mr. President The White House Christmas tree will be Missaukee County's biggest and best: A 20-foot blue spruce 11 News People Earn FB's 'Ag Communicator' Titles 19 Satellite Up~ink Speeds Farm News to Michigan Stations 22 COLUMNS Rural Route - page 4 Rural Exchange - page 16 Country Ledger - page 5 Discussion Topic - page 24 Legislative Review - page 6 Agrinomic Update - page 27 Front and Center - page 15 Farm Bureau Market Place - page 29 Michigan farm l"Iews RURAL LlVII"IG: MIchIgan Farm News Rural LivIng Is published monthly. on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and Public Relations Division. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing. Mich. 48909. Post O/flce Box 30960; telephone. Lansing 517-323.7000. Extension 508. SUBSCRIPTIOI"I PRICE: $1.50 per year to members, Included In annual dUes. $3.00 per year non-members in Michigan. $5.00 per year non-members out of state. Publication No. 345040. Established Jan. 13. 1923 as MIchigan Farm News. name changed to MIchIgan Farm News Rural LivIng Dec. I, 198 \. Third-class postage paid at Lansing. Michigan and at additional mailing offices. EDITORIAL: Connie Turbin. Editor; Marcia Ditchie. Associate Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor; Cathy J. I\lrvan. Associate Editor. OffiCERS: 1'1lchigan Farm Bureau; President. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia; Vice President. Jack Laurie. Cass City; Administrative Director. Robert Braden. Lansing; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Mal( D. Dean; Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District I. Arthur Bailey. Schoolcraft; District 2. Lowell Eisenmann. Blissfield; District 3. James Sayre. Belleville; District 4. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia; District 5. Albert Cook. Mason; District 6. Jack Lauric. Cass City; District 7. Robert Rider. Hart; District 8. Lyle LeCronler. Freeland; District 9. Donald Nugent. Frankfort; District 10. Margaret I\artes. West Branch; DIstrict I L Bernard Doll. Dafter. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Dave Conklin. Corunna; Michael Pridgeon. Montgomery; Wayne Wood. Marlette. fARM BUREAU WOMEI"I: Faye Adam. Snover. fARM BUREAU YOUNG fARMERS: Mark Smuts, Charlotte. Cheers for a Winning Membership Game Plan! Membership acquisition is sition will like this part of the It will be unlikely that any serious business. A tremendous game plan, with an all-out effort team will return the kick-off ball amount of time and effort is in~ by all team members to reach all the way down the field and vested annually to provide us gain and/ or target during this into the end zone without being with the member strength and 10-day period. It wouldn't sur- tackled - even bruised up a bit financial viability necessary to prise me to see some of our ag- - by holdout prospects who remain the most effective farm gressive county FB coaches keep you from crossing the goal organization in the state and spur their teams over the goal line. But you have a great book nation. line during the blitzl of plays going into the game. If But just because it's serious one doesn't work, another will. business doesn't mean that the Hit 'em hardl Tell them about membership campaign can't be Make the first Farm Bureau's group health fun. In fact, if it isn't fun, we're plans, our buyer service, our yardage for your probably not doing it right. auto discounts, our member-to- The 1985 membership cam- Farm Bureau team member sales, AgriCom, the paign has been designed with by renewing your group purchase program, in- that in mind, with a football surance to fit their special theme to carry us through from membership todayl needs (be sure to read in this kick-off to victory. There's no issue about the new $10,000 no greater motivator than competi. cost member benefit for seat tion and seldom do you see it Details of the 1985 MFB mem- belt users insured with Farm as fierce as on a football field. bership football game were Bureau Mutual.) The players on a team have one spelled out to team members If that doesn't work, try the destination in mind - the goal during goal~getter conferences leadership development oppor- line - and they use all their in November. Kick-off for the tunities they'll have through united strength and know-how big game was scheduled for the Farm Bureau, the publications to overcome any obstacles that County Presidents' and Cam- that will keep them well- stand in their way to cross it. paign Managers' Banquet the informed, and that vitally im- They have a burning desire to first night of our MFB annual portant member benefit - a winl meeting, Nov. 27. The starting strong, effective voice in their I'm sure you can see the whistle has blown and every local communities, in Lansing similarities between a member- one of you will have an oppor- and Washington, D.C., to pro- ship campaign and a football tunity to help your team be a tect their best interests. game ... the need for team- victor. It's kick-off time, the blitz is work, a common goal, a will to Some of you will be on the coming, it's going to be an ex- win. "Blitz" is a common term field as quarterbacks, centers citing game. Make the first in football and we'll be using or members of special teams. yardage for your team by re- that strategy as part of our others will be calling the plays newing your membership today. total game plan. As the Farm as head coaches. Still others will serve as cheerleaders and e~fd~ Bureau Football League com- missioner, I will be proclaiming scouts. Even those of you who a 10-day membership blitz, Jan. are spectators in the stands can .30 through Feb. 8. be involved by renewing your elton R. Smith, President I think those of you who are memberships and telling every- Michigan Farm Bureau veterans in membership acqui- one on the sidelines to do the same. 4 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 COUNTRY LEDGER A Christmas Patchwork By Connie Turbin Planning and piecing this to our often haphazard use of patchwork is a labor of love for capitalization and quotation Shortly after making a special the people who make up the marks. Mow as a regular contri- friend and her husband a patch- Rural Living staff. We enjoy butor, Cathy has the chance to work quilt in April, hints started bringing you the articles and show off her own writing talents. coming in that I should make features you read each month. By the time Rural Living is one for our own home. I thought perhaps you would proofed and printed, typesetter Since I had made no progress like to meet Donna Wilber, con- Brenda Miller has read each by June, the hinting became tributing editor; Marcia Ditchie, page at least three times. more pointed. "This bedspread photographer and associate edi- Although she has been with the just isn't you,'' said my mother, tor; Cathy Kirvan, associate/ Farm Bureau organization only the diplomat, on a visit. T hate copy editor; Brenda Miller, type- four years, this unique "study it," said my husband, who setter; and myself. The photo- course" has acquainted her nevertheless sleeps soundly be- graphs on this page are called very well with Farm Bureau pro- neath the blues and corals of "environmental photos." They grams and the members who its tropical pattern. show us working diligently and "make it happen." I say it's bright and, well, Car- so seriously, and we do. But we As editor of Rural Living, my ribean. He says I must have had also laugh a lot, tease one job is to bring together the peo- too many Margaritas when I another in the way of good, ple, pictures and words to bought it. close friends, and we talk about create the texture and pattern The final assault came in Oc- our problems and worries, know- of every Rural Living. tober: "God forbid, you should ing that our faltering won't be I hope that you enjoy the pat- make anything for our house." interpreted as weakness. terns we work for you each Although I felt this was singu- Donna, who has been the month and that you will find larly unjust, I caved in, bought Michigan Farm news editor and something special and inter- three rich, country prints and now Rural Living contributing esting in the Christmas patch- began "building a quilt." editor for seven years, is the work of articles we are bringing Mow that I've begun, I enjoy thread that brings all of our to you in the December issue. planning, piecing and quilting talents and personalities into Merry Christmas! the pattern. As I work, I find my- play. She listens, approves, sug- self thinking out the problems gests and encourages. Her and puzzles of family life and columns, articles and feature the workday. Literally and figur- stories reflect this sensitivity, atively, patterns emerge and whether it is "hard news" or a solutions take shape. These per- personal profile of leaders in sonal and caring thoughts are our industry. woven into the squares of the Marcia came to Farm Bureau quilt, making it a labor of love. "temporarily" after completing Such labors of love are not her bachelor's degree at MSU 12 limited to hobbies and gift giv- years ago. Her photos of presi- ing projects. As the Rural Living dents, kids, animals and news editors met and talked with the events have been a regular part people you, too, will meet in this of the publication during those month's magazine, we found years. The thousands of color people for whom their vocation slides and negatives she has is a labor of love. Their work is taken are virtually a pictorial often hectic, frequently stress- history of the organization over ful, but rewarding in the way the past 10 years. that only a job well done can be. Cathy, red pen in hand, at- Our December issue, then, is tacks our copy each month, in- a kind of Christmas patchwork, serting commas, moving rich with the patterns and phrases, and giving a correct colors of people who are work- and consistent journalistic style ing in agriculture. RURAL LIViriQ, DECEMBER 1984 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW ELECTIONS '84 Success for AgriPac 'Friends' Of the 81 candidates endorsed "l believe the endorsements While many political analysts by AgriPac as "Friends of Agri- AgriPac made, with strong input were surprised by rural Amer- culture;" 7.3 were elected, giv- from county Farm Bureau can- ica's 75% support of the cur- ing MFB's political action com- didate evaluation committees, rent administration, AFBF Presi- mittee a 90% success record in and the reasons for our en- dent Robert Delano was not. the 1984 general election. dorsements, were looked upon U.S. agriculture, he said, voted AgriPac chairperson Jack by members as being honest, overwhelmingly for traditional Laurie, a Tuscola County dairy issue-oriented positions and I beliefs in independence, incen- farmer who also serves as MFB think they voted accordingly." tives and confidence in the vice president, said he was marketplace. , "elated" with the results of the "Most farmers are not demon- election. strators," he said. "They prefer "I get excited when I think the ballot box to the picket line about how Farm Bureau mem- - and they have expressed bers are reacting to political ac- themselves with force and elo- tivity involvement opportuni- National Results quence." ties. I think the 1984 election, Only two of AgriPac's Friends Delano said the Reagan land- especially here in Michigan, of Agriculture were unsuccess- slide "provides landslide substantiates the fact that FB ful in their bids for national momentum for a 1985 farm bill members are on the right track political offices. Jack Lousma that can put farming back in in being involved in endorsing was defeated by incumbent Carl the business of producing for and supporting political candi- Levin for the U.S. Senate seat, markets and not government dates who are Friends of Agri- and Jackie McGregor lost to in- storage bins. culture," he said. cumbent Howard Wolpe in the liThe message was clear 3rd Congressional District race. enough for any congressman to 6 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 understand - that farmers stand with other taxpayers in AgriPac Winners! rejecting expensive, fruitless u.s. President 47th Paul Wartner (R) federal programs that deliver Ronald Reagan (R) 48th Donald Gilmer (R) tax dollars to government bu- 49th Richard Fitzpatrick (D) reaucracies and take consumer u.s. Representatives 50th Mike Griffin (D) dollars away from the market- 51st Fred Dillingham (R) place," he said. 2nd Carl Pursell (R) 54th Paul Hillegonds (R) AFBF does not endorse politi- 4th Mark SiUander (R) 56th Ernie Nash (R) cal candidates, but MFB's 5th Paul Henry (R) 58th Debbie Stabenow (D) AgriPac did designate President 8th Bob Traxler (D) 61st Mat Dunaskiss (R) 9th Guy Vander Jagt (R) Reagan as a Friend of Agricul- 62nd Charlie Harrison Jr. (D) 10th Bill Schuette (R) ture. 74th John Maynard (D) 11th Bob Davis (R) 77th Dick Allen (R) 12th David Bonior (D) 78th Keith Muxlow (R) 16th John Dingell (D) 79th John Cherry Jr. (D) 18th William Broomfield (R) 80th Floyd Clack (D) 83rd Charles Mueller (R) State Representatives State Results 84th John Strand (R) 2nd Burton Leland (D) 86th Lewis Dodak (D) Sixty-two of AgriPac's 68 3rd Matthew McNeely (D) 88th Robert Bender (R) "Friends of Agriculture" run- 5th Teola Hunter (D) 89th Gary Randall (R) ning in state elections were 7th Nelson Saunders (D) 90th Victor Krause (R) successful in their campaigns. 8th Carolyn Kilpatrick (D) 92nd Thomas Mathieu (D) Candidates for state representa- 11th Stanley Stopczynski (D) 93rd Vernon Ehlers (R) tives who were defeated were 12th Curtis Hertel (D) 94th Jelt Sietsema (D) Ken DeBeaussaert (D), 75th Dis- 13th William Bryant Jr. (R) 97th Ed Geerlings (R) trict; James Docherty (D), 76th; 14th Joseph Young Sr. (D) 98th Ed Giese (R) Phillip Thompson (R), 87th; and 15th Joseph Young Jr. (D) 99th Colleen Engler (R) Tom Elegeert (D), 109th. 18th Sidney Ouwinga (R) 100th J. Michael Busch (R) Two "Friends" endorsed for 19th Don Van Singel (R) 101st Tom Hickner (D) the Michigan Supreme Court, 20th Claude Trim (R) 102nd Mike Hayes (R) Jim Brickley and Dorothy Com- 23rd Phil Hoffman (R) 105th Tom Alley (D) stock Riley, were elected. A 27th Vincent Porreca (D) 106th John Pridnia (R) third candidate supported by 28th Robert DeMars (D) 107th Pat Gagliardi (D) AgriPac, Robert Griffin, was de- 36th Gerald Law (R) 110th Donald Koivisto (D) feated. 38th Justine Barnes (D) The Michigan State University 39th Jerry Bartnik (D) State Supreme Court board of trustees races were of 40th Timothy Walberg (R) Jim Brickley particular concern to AgriPac, 41st Michael Nye (R) Dorothy Comstock Riley with strong support provided to 42nd Glenn Oxender (R) two farmers, Republican Dean 43rd Carl Gnodtke (R) MSUBoard of Trustees Pridgeon from Branch County 44th Lad Stacey (R) and Democrat June Kretzsch- 45th Mick Middaugh (R) Dean Pridgeon (R) mer from Huron County. Prid- geon, who is former director of the Michigan Department of Ag- MFB, along with many other Ballot Proposals riculture and also served as organizations, strongly opposed chairperson of the Natural Re- Michigan Farm Bureau chalk- Proposal C, the "Voter's Choice" sources Commission and vice up a 1-1 record on its ballot amendment. Jack Laurie, chair- president of the Michigan Farm proposal positions. The organi- person of the board's legislative Bureau, was successful In his zation supported Proposal A, an committee, said, "Proposal C bid for that post. amendment providing for the was a critical issue and we were AgriPac chairperson Jack Legislature or a Joint committee very happy that it was defeated. Laurie called Pridgeon's elec- of the Legislature to approve or disapprove administrative rules The organization took no tion "an Important step toward Nritten by state agencies to position on Proposal B, the a bright future for MSUand for implement state laws. Voters Natural Resources Trust Fund agriculture. " disagreed and the proposal was amendment, which passed. defeated. RURAL L1VINQ, D£C£MB£R 1984 7 lIlt's a star destined event. •• " Tom Martin, President Cherry Bowl, Inc. By Connie Turbin uled to take place on Friday, Elias Brothers Restaurants, Dec. 7 and Monday, Dec. 10. which has been a major sponsor Some people wonder what we Here, too, Michigan food pro- of the Cherry Bowl, will promote do for fun up here in the land of ducts, travel, entertainment the game and Michigan cherries ice and snow, but those who and attractions will be show- with specialty menu items venture into the Michigan circle cased. throughout the month of De- to attend the state's premier "Planning these events with- cember. The firm, based in War- Cherry Bowl will have the envi- out a key piece of information ren, Mich., said "Yesl Michigan able opportunity to literally eat like where they will be held has Cherry Bowll" in a big way with their words. been a pretty tricky challenge their sponsorship contribution On Dec. 21 the pre-game for the staff organizing 'Cher- of $250,000. event will be a brunch for 8,000 ries Jubilee,'" says Jim Karsh- at the Pontiac Silverdome fea- ner, the Commerce Department's turing (what else?) Michigan association services liaison. cherries! And so much more! But, he says, just as soon as the According to Tom Martin, participating teams are an- founder and president of Cherry nounced on Nov. 24, the site Bowl Inc., and Randy Harmson, locations will be confirmed, and marketing director for the invitations will be printed and Michigan Department of Agri- mailed to members of the col- culture, the brunch will show- leges' alumni and faculty, news case Michigan products from media, city and state officials appetizers and desserts to the and travel agents. cream in your coffee. "About But there is more to pro- the only thing to be served that moting the Cherry Bowl than is not grown or produced in good food and good will. Per- Michigan will be coffee and haps no one understands that tea," Martin says. better than Tom Martin, who in- Martin promises that those at- troduced the idea to members tending the Cherry Bowl in Pon- of the Michigan Cherry Commit- tiac on Dec. 22 will also be tee two-and-a-haIf years ago. treated to a delicious variety of "It's been a real labor of love Michigan cherry products, in- and persistence in trying to pull cluding a new Cherry Bowl sun- together the necessary interest dae. "We developed the 'Cherry and sponsors so that we had General Motors, also an or- Bowl sundae' for the Autumn- enough collective strength to ganizing sponsor, has backed fest brunch at MSUand it was make the Cherry Bowl oppor- the bowl game with an esti- declared 100% delicious." The tunity for Michigan real and mated contribution of $750,000. sundae is prepared in a crisply viable," Martin says. Many Michigan corporations fried tortilla shell "bowl," Now, apparently, opportunity and associations have joined sprinkled with sugar and cin- is knocking at Martin's door, the effort with financial con- namon, then filled with ice but he's not surprised ... only tributions and/ or have pur- cream and cherry topping. delighted. "It's a star-destined chased ticket blocks of 500 Cherry Bowl organizers and event," he says. "It's not con- seats in the Silverdome. The the Michigan Department of troversial and it's non-political. Michigan Farm Bureau, Farm Commerce are putting a holiday Everyone senses the potential Bureau Insurance Group and shine on the "Yes! Michigan!" and wants to become involved the Michigan Agricultural Coop- campaign to lure visitors to the in a very positive, supportive erative Marketing Association state for the game with "Cher- way." are among those to join in the ries Jubilee" parties in the par- sponsorship activities. ticipating team cities. The hos- pitality receptions are sched- RURAL LIVINO, DECEMBER 1984 9 athletic programs, the kind of schedule and opponents they played, that are eligible to par- ticipate because of their record. That would suggest an eleven game schedule with something like a 9-2 or 8-.3record." With the announcement of the Cherry Bowl teams on Nov. 24, Martin expects that travel packages, group tour arrange- ments and electronic and mail order ticket sales will get into full swing. Michigan Farm Bureau has 250 tickets immediately avail- able for members, which may be ordered by completing the ticket application below. If prepaid ticket requests through MFBexceed the organization's supply, arrangements will be made with the Pontiac Silver- The response from the state's enthusiastically year after year, dome ticket office to secure business community, govern- the Silverdome's over 80,000 tickets for members. ment and commitments from person seating capacity gives Cherry Bowl excitement will commercial sponsors and the the game the potential of being be part of this year's County Mizlou Syndicated Sports Net- the second largest in fan atten- Presidents' and Campaign Man- work, which will televise the dance. agers' Banquet, Nov. 27 during game on 108 channels nation- He says that the organizers the MFB annual meeting. Those wide, have combined to provide are looking for the kind of team attending the banquet will be the Cherry Bowl with a solid match up that would interest entered in a drawing for two financial foundation and ex- fans and fill those 80,000 seats. pairs of Cherry Bowl tickets. cellent media exposure in its "I think they would like to see "It's a great match-up," says first year. one of the Big Ten teams they John VanderMolen, MFB mem- Martin estimates that each of are familiar with matched bership campaign coordinator, the participating teams in the against a team they don't often "our campaign football theme first Cherry Bowl game stand to see in this area such as Penn and the state's premier colle- receive between $750,000 and State, Florida State or Alabama. giate bowl game!" $1.2 million, the fifth largest "Our primary criterion is to purse among bowl games. And, select two very representative he says, if Midwest fans respond teams, based on the schools' ----------~-------------------------------------- CUERRY BOWL TICKET ORDER FORM J- YES! Michigan Cherry Bowl .. Make check or money order payable to: MFB Cherry Bowl Ticket Offer. Mail your order to Michigan rarm Bureau, Cherry Bowl Ticket Offer, P.O. Box .30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Please enclose a self- addressed, stamped envelope. Name Phone Address City State Zip Please send me tickets at $ 20.00 each. AMOUNT ENCLOSED: $ ------------------------------------------------- 10 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 Merry Christmas, •• Mr. President By Cathy J. Klrvan The VanderWeides have won "We grow about 1.3 million so the bi-annual Michigan Christ- to find the perfect tree takes a To icicle or not to icicle may mas Tree Growers Association lot of time," Steve said. The be the only question to be de- competition twice - in 1981 "perfect" tree they found for cided when your family brings and 1983. As state winner they this year's competition was an home this year's Christmas earned the right to present the 8' blue spruce. But since most tree. Chances are it will bear an governor with a tree those years trees are harvested when uncanny resemblance to last and to compete in the national they're between 51f2 and 10 feet, year's tree. Why? Traditionl contest the next year .• Most families have a tradition when it comes time to select •• and decorate their Christmas tree. But for the Steve &. Debra. .~1 IUM Van~erWeide family, Missaukee •••• :::, .. County farmers who raise 11I1& •••••• Christmas trees on 1, 700 owned ••••• IIISl\ and leased acres, this year will •• _._ : •• :.:.:.~, be different .••••••••••• \ ••••••• "My birthday is Dec. 4 and we've always taken that day off, 111m •••••• •.•~ 1M a ""U..• • AI :~. Ii. cu t o~r own. t ree, pu t'tI up an d •••••••••••••• • ••••••• •••••••••••••••••••••• decorated it that night with s~rings of popcorn and cran- berries," Steve said. "But that • •••••••••••••••••••••••••••• ~DU-.-~ t •••• HIRR~ IIIIIB won't work thls year because •••••••••• •••••••••••••• '••••••••••••••• we're leaving for Washington, D.C., the next morning to pre- -'1881ft~ ~r~J ••••••••••••••••••••••• •............... ~:.'.~.I , ..I. 1MI~ . 'I'j, U.~ sent the White House Christmas tree to President and Mrs.••••• • • ••••••• Reagan." ••• : •••••••••• , : •••• The VanderWeides earned the privilege of supplying the White ~3DJST '•••••••••.•••• • •• - ••••••••••• •••• • ••• f••••••••• I ••••••••••••• Jl-'~ w.wr lI House's tree by winning the Na- tional Association of Christmas Tree Growers bi-annual com- peted against growers from 25 •••••••••••••••••• petition in August. They com- ••••••••••••••••• ~,~ f IRR~ ••••••• ••••••••••. • a.... other states who had won state _ •••••••••••••••••• association contests .••••••••••••••• ~~~:~~f~~i~::i1:f~;f:Jin contest someday but we didn't j,f)'JeeieTe "II" II ., .,~. ~~e~i think it would be this soon. It's •••••••••••••••••••• a neat honor and we're excited ••• - •••••••• e e••••• about it." •••••••••••• .... ''-W. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 11 The White House Christmas Tree Will be the Biggest & Best: A 20-Foot Blue Spruce From Michigan's Missaukee County the VanderWeides didn't have a buy an additional 20,000 to "perfect" 20-foot spruce for the .30,000 trees from neighbors. White House. Over 90% of their trees are "We don't grow trees as tall shipped out of state with most as the size we're suppose to going to customers in Florida give the president," Steve said. and Texas. "This one was donated by "Our secret is vigorous mar- another Missaukee County resi- keting," Steve said. "We size dent. We're not revealing who and sort everything so that we the individual is or where the have a really good package to tree is located until Dec. .3 sell. We can provide a buyer because of the possibility of with many different varieties in vandalism." several different sizes." That's when the tree will be Steve used to travel during cut, loaded in a refrigerated the month of December looking truck and shipped to Washing- for new customers but now ton, D.C. Steve and Deb will their excellent reputation take part in dedication cere- brings the customers to them. monies on Dec. 6 and on Dec. 9 "We'll start in one area of the it will be decorated and put on country with one service club public display. and another Lions or Kiwanis club will say 'Hey, you've got Good Employees, Marketing Strategy Keys to Success Over one million Christmas trees are harvested each year In I'Ilssaukee Taking a few days off at that County, the third largest Christmas tree producing county In the nation. time of year is not easy for At Dutchman Tree Farms, trees are baled (below) then loaded on trucks Christmas tree growers. Al- (above) to be hauled to a central storage field. Workers are paid by the tree so careful records are kept of the harvest. though the cutting will be done, they'll still be shipping trees. At their peak, the VanderWeides load 20 semi trucks a day - one every .30 minutes. Sticking to that kind of schedule takes a lot of organization and dedi- cated employees. "This year, especially, we've had to depend on our em- ployees a lot," Steve said. "With all the reporters wanting inter- views, plus our trip to Washing- ton, they will still get the work done on schedule." Since Steve and Deb started Dutchman Tree Farms 12 years ago with a few acres, an old pick-up, a used baler and a lot of faith, the business has ex- panded rapidly. They now har- vest 120,000 trees annually and 12 RURAL LIVING, Df;CEMBER 1984 better quality trees than we do, build a new milking herd. They Filling the Customers' Needs where'd you get yours?' Then also own a tree nursery, in part- Four years ago Deb and a they'll call us the next year. nership with one of Steve's neighbor, Marge Link, started a After a while we'll pick up most nephews. Between the three new business venture that of the service clubs in one area. operations, they average 20 utilized the "waste" products Basically, that's how our busi- employees in the spring, 60 in ness has spread." summer and about 30 in the fall. It Just Keeps Growing In the spring they fertilize the I When Steve and Deb started trees and plant two-year-old the Christmas tree farm as a seedlings. The summer months sideline to the family dairy are spent shearing, shaping and operation, they never planned tagging the trees that will be harvested that year. During August and September most tagged trees are color tinted with green latex paint. "A lot of people wonder why that is done," Steve said. "Color tint- ing preserves the freshness of the tree, seals pores and doesn't allow moisture to evap- orate as quickly after it's cut. However, we also sell 'natural' trees." The harvest begins in mid- October and continues through early December. In addition to the cutters, who cut up to 1,500 trees per day, there are draggers, sizers, balers, and The VanderWeide's children are haulers. Usually the cutters still a little young to work on the start at a new field early each farm but they're looking forward morning. Other workers then to it. Pictured are Steve and Deb and two of their four children: drag the trees to roadways Laura, .5, and Julia, 2. Not pic- where they are marked for size, tured are Sarah, 8, and Krista, 5 run through a baler that ties months. the boughs close to the trunk, and then hauled to a central field where they are stacked in from Christmas tree production. long rows by size, field and They began making wreaths variety. and garlands out of unsaleable Three or four cutters usually trees and the boughs trimmed work during the six-week harvest When trucks begin to arrive to ship the trees south, they can from harvested trees. season, cutting an average of 1,500 trees each per day. easily be loaded with several "Many of our tree customers varieties and sizes in just one also sold wreaths and garlands or two passes through the field. and asked if we could supply to get so large. "We didn't even In the busy shipping season them," Steve said. "So we dream of doing what we're do- Deb VanderWeide works full- started the business and it has ing today, and sometimes, time in the office handling all of gone really well." when it gets really hectic, we the paperwork related to ship- After the first year, Marge and wonder why we did. But now the ping. her husband, Tom, bought trees are our main concern," During the rest of the year Deb's share of Wreath Works Steve said. she works one day a week in the and now employ three people in They recently sold the dairy farm office. The rest of the time the fall. Last year they made herd to a former partner and she's busy with their four chil- over 400 wreaths and 4,000 have purchased 100 heifers to dren: Sarah, 8; Laura, 5; Julia, feet of garland. 2; and Krista, 5 months. RURAL LIVING, D~C~MB~R 1984 1.3 "Most of their customers are our customers," Steve said. "After we've loaded trees in our O'Tannenbaum! yard the truckers pull in next door to get the wreaths and By Marcia Dltchie garlands. " Adapting their operation to fit Adults spend countless hours the needs of their customers painstakingly decorating them, has been the key to the success small children stare in wonder- of Dutchman Tree Farms. They ment at them and even kittens no longer advertise for custom- have a mischievous twinkle in ers and very seldom have any their eyes each time they look trees left at the end of the sea- at them. What commands all son. that attention each year at this "We have a couple customers time? It is the centuries-old that will take anything we've tradition of trimming and light- got left," Steve said. "But if we ing Christmas trees. do have a few, we'll give them Though each nationality and to charity." family may have their own traditions, it is believed that the custom of trimming and light- ing a Christmas tree originated in Medieval German mystery Small American nags and candles plays when the "paradise tree" in tin holders decorate a tabletop was used to symbolize the tree in a replica of 1860 Denry Garden of Eden. Ford's birthplace at Greenfield After the suppression of these Village. Following the Civil War, plays, the tree was used to the nation's patriotic fervor was apparent in the use of nags to decorate homes. Although the decorate Christmas trees. church discouraged this prac- tice, the custom was deeply in- grained in the German culture although the decorated trees and eventually became a sym- were becoming more popular in bol of this Christian holiday. churches and schools. It wasn't However, the Christmas tree until the second half of the is considered by some 19th century that table-top authorities as a survivor of trees began to appear more fre- pagan tree worship and has quently in homes. Decorations been traced to ancient Rome on these trees included ginger- and Egypt. bread cookies, fruits, nuts and Whatever its origin, the candles. Some trees were Christmas tree was introduced decorated with handcrafted into America by German im- strings of cranberries, popcorn migrants where it was enthusi- and American flags. astically adopted throughout As Christmas trees gained ac- the country. The first written ceptance among the general At Wreath Works, located next to record of Christmas trees in public, many people who had Dutchman Tree Farms, workers America was in 1747 in the practiced the more ancient make 12, 14 and 18 Inch wreaths Moravian settlement at Bethle- and SO-foot garlands. The enter- custom of decorating their prise was started four years ago hem, Pa. These trees were homes with evergreens easily to utilize Christmas tree "waste wooden pyramids covered with adapted to the addition of products." evergreen and decorated with decorating a tree. apples and candles. By written At the turn of the century accounts, it was sometime be- only one family in five had an tween 1820 and the 1840s that indoor Christmas tree, however, actual evergreen trees began to the indoor trees became ex- appear in homes of German im- tremely popular in the first migrants. decade of the 20th century. Most families did not have their own tree at this time, 14 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 FRONT 8( CENTER Tbe economic outlook for agriculture will be tbe topic of two December meetings featuring Jim Gill, director of market analysis for illinois FB's AgrlVisor. Gill will also discuss market strategies for 1985 and beyond. The meetings will be held Tuesday, Dec. 11 at the I Square Inn, Jackson, and Wednesday, Dec. 12 at Aldrich's Restaurant, Frankenmuth. Starting time at each location is 1:30 p.m. County Executive Committee members and selected committee chairpersons can expect to get helpful "what to" and "how to" Information to Improve their leadership perfor- mance at the County Leaders' Conference, Dec. 18-19 at the Lansing Hilton Inn. The two-day program Includes personal development and committee workshops. State and national affairs, local affairs, group purchasing and Community Action Group chairpersons and Executive Com- mittee members are encouraged to attend. Tbe 1984 Executive Club Conference for county FB Young Farmer and Women's Committee officers will be held Dec. 13-14 In Lansing. The conference, designed to help these officers to better understand their roles and responsibilities, will feature workshops on building an effective organization, stimulating member involvement, specific duties as an of- ficer and conducting effective meetings. Dr. Burton D. Cardwell bas been appointed deputy director of programs for tbe Mlcblgan Department of Agriculture. Cardwell's responsibilities will Include supervision of MDA's animal Industry, environmental, food, plant industry, laboratory and agricultural develop- ment divisions. In addition, he Is responsible for overseeing the Office of Toxic Substances and Emergency Services, and staffs of the Family Farm Development Authority and the Agricultural Marketing and Bargaining Board. Prior to his appointment by MDA Director Paul Klndlnger, Card- well was director of the department's Toxic Substances and Emergency Services Office. Several FB members bave been appointed to state agricultural committees by Gov. Blanchard. Sam Carini of Ottawa County was named to the Michigan Agricultural Labor Com- mission for a term expiring Nov. 16, 1985. Sharon Steffens, Kent County fruit grower, was re- appointed to the committee for a term expiring Nov. 16, 1986. Appointed to terms on the Michigan Potato Industry Commission for terms expiring June 30, 1987 were Frederick W. Hubert of Bay County, Wayne J. Lennard of Monroe County and Paul VanDamme of Hlawatha- land. William F. Teichman, Berrien County fruit grower, was appointed to the Michigan Plum Committee for a term expiring May 3, 1987, subject to Senate confirmation. Gov. Blancbard bas requested tbat 27 Mlcblgan counties be declared disaster areas because of tbe extensive crop damage caused by the cold, wet spring and hot, dry summer. The governor's request goes to USDASecretary John Block for approval. If approved, about 26,400 farmers who have suffered financial losses totalling $210 million may be eligible for financial assistance in the form of low interest loans. Counties included in the disaster area declaration request are: Allegan, Barry, Bay, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Clare, Eaton, Gladwin, Hillsdale, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, livingston, Macomb, Mecosta, Midland, Oakland, Ottawa, St. Joseph, Van Buren, Washtenaw and Wayne. Save up to 50% on the purcbase of fasteners and bardware through a new service to member discount program introduced this yearl A member discount program has been ar- ranged with Hi-Grade Nut and Bolt Company of Wyoming, Mich., for direct, mall order sales of hex head bolts, nuts, flat washers, lock washers and other fasteners used by farmers for equip- ment repair and maintenance. "Farm Pack" quantities are stocked in diameters of up to 1/4" through 3/4" in 6" lengths, and long bolts of 112" through 1" diameter up to 12" long. Plow bolts, carriage bolts and special fasteners are also available. Farm repair kits of cotter pins, stove bolts, roll pins, sodderless terminals, sheet metal screws, hitch pin clips, lock nuts, etc., are packed in clear, break resistant, see through plastic boxes. HI-Grade also offers top hitch pins, shatterproof steel hacksaw blades and frames, nylon cable tie wraps, high speed drill bit index sets and in- dividual drills. Product and price sheets and a mail order form are available from county FB secretaries. Freight Is prepaid on all orders of $50 or more, and delivered directly to the farm. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 15 These two requirements tend I find the Farm Bureau term to take away our freedom to do "farmette" offensive. Using such business, and for a small pro- a diminutive suffix implies that ducer, it may Just be too much women are somehow smaller or trouble to bother with. less than their male counter- If you have any questions parts. Another phrase, "farmers concerning t~is situation, feel and their wives," assumes that free to contact me. I do not wives are not farmers. really have the time or Shame on you for encourag- resources to fight this, but I in- ing this image of farmers. Too tend to do so. many people in our society already have the wrong idea of DEMOLITION DERBY - If MFB Don Dodd, Niles how farms operate today. We Regional Rep. T. R. Cagney man- Cass County ages bls Soutbwest Football Con- are no longer one-horse opera- ference membersblp campaign MFB Senior Legislative Counsel tions; we are big business, with wltb tbe same spirit be used to Robert t;. Smith has set up a women who do more than sit overcome obstacles In tbe Kala- around churning butter and meeting with the writer and the mazoo County Fall' demolition derby wltb tbe "tbrasber masber," MDA. FB staff will be working making m uffinsl tbe county FBs In bls region win with the department on any Mary Schalk, Rogers City be tougb teams to beat. changes that might be needed in Presque Isle County the present law. Farm Bureau has long recog- Enough Regulations. nized the important role of For several years the Michi- Don't Sell women on the farm - as home- gan Department of Agriculture Farm Women Short makers, partners and decision has been requiring all food I find it frustrating that an makers. Several leadership pro- handlers to have a $15 per year organization such as Farm Bu- grams have been designed to license and inspection, in- reau, a supposedly grassroots, help women increase their per- cluding producers of maple farmer-oriented group, fails to sonal, business and marketing syrup and honey. recognize the many women skills. More women than ever Now we will be required to farmers. We are not simply mar- serve as county FB presidents, have another license just for ried to farmers, we ARE farmers. on county FB boards and on retailing our product at another Yes, there are many farmers' county and state FB committees. location. In addition, we will be wives who are not actively in- Michigan Farm News Rural expected to list on the back of volved in the business, but Living has reported the chang- the license application all loca- don't assume it is that way in ing role of farm women in sev- tions and the dates where we all cases. eral articles over the last few will be selling our product dur- ing the year. In the view of the MDA, any place that you retail your prod- FAKMETTE uct away from home is another By Andrea Hofmeister "food establishment." This is Tuscola County not just the idea of an individu- al inspector. I have letters from both E. C. Heffron and Paul Kin- dinger stating that they are sorry, but that's the way the law reads. I contend that MDA should not require duplicate licensing of a sealed, safe, food product just because the producer has moved the containers to anoth- er location. Furthermore, I contend that the state has no need to know exactly where and when we will be selling our product in the "/ asked you to be creative with the decorations, but future. would you care to reconsider your choice of iocation?" 16 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 years, including a feature on down from the national board four women in September. As of directors. Journalists who follow the rules Handed down? Here at Farm for "nondiscriminatory commu- Bureau we hand upl National nications," the editors do not policy begins at the Community use phrases such as "farmers Action Group potluck supper and their wives. ". table. AgrlPac based Its en- With farmers' stress levels so dorsements largely on county- high, the "f'armette" cartoon level Candidate Evaluation takes a look at the lighter side Committee recommendations. of farm life as seen by the And that really is the attitude woman who draws Lt. of the staff working at Michigan Farm Bureau. Our county has been developing radio program- It's a Great Feeling ming lately, and the MFB staff With the double impact of person we've been working with Election Day and Thanksgiving, has been a great help. I have did you have a feeling of grati- found his attitude to be typical tude for living in a free coun- of his co-workers. He has said Two Elseys were nestled all snug try? I always do, and I also ex- more than once, "What can I do In tbelr cbalr. wblle aromas of to help you? I work for you - boll day time filled tbe air. perienced a similar feeling re- cently while attending a farm you pay my wages." Wltb mom In tbe kltcben making some treats. daddy Dave and meeting. Sometimes it gets to be a has- young Emily were getting some The group was not Farm Bu- sle attending so many Farm Bu- sleep. reau, but they are market- reau meetings, but doesn't that Wben out In tbe barn tbey beard oriented. This particular even- tell you something? Just as sucb a clatter - it was tbelr Cass ing they were meeting at the many countries hold no elec- County pigs wanting a taste of state level with a livestock tions, many farm organizations tbe batter. market. As the meeting pro- hold few local meetings. Except gressed, it was evident that the perhaps to tell you what they Rural Living editors welcome market managers were against are doing with your dues money. contributions to these pages. a certain policy. When one of Send comments or photos to Wendy Elsey, Decatur the group objected, he was told Rural Living. P.o. Box .30960, Cass County that it was a directlve handed Lansing, MI 48909. FARMERS OF THE WEEK The Farmer of the Week program, co- the local Michigan Animal Breeders County FB executive board; winner of sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance Cooperative; Michigan Milk Producers several FB discussion meet awards; Group and the Michigan Farm Radio Association member; past president of council member, lay reader, usher and Network, has honored farmers for their the Cass Valley Co-op, a milk hauling past youth group leader in his church; contributions to the community and the cooperative; and member of the Presby- FFA Alumni Association; FFA state gold ag Industry for nearly 10 years. The terian Church. award for soil management; FFA farm program ended In October. Here are the forum team chairperson; outstanding final five farmers to receive the award. Oct. 15 - G. Rlcbard Traver. 58, a senior in FFA; county FB Policy Develop- dairy and beef farmer from Williamston, ment Committee; and assistant legisla- Oct. 1 - Paul Wicks. 42, operates a farms 262 acres in partnership with two tive leader for the Washington Legisla- 4oo-acre fruit and vegetable farm near sons. His activities include: Ingham tive Seminar. Dowagiac where he grows cherries, County FB member, past officer and asparagus, apples and plums. His ac- committee member; Ingham County Oct. 29 - Ted Asbley. 29, Is a beef tivities Include Michigan Apple Commis- Animal Control Board member; Lansing cattle and sheep farmer from St. Johns sion chairperson; membership on many Farmers Club officer; Masonic Lodge who farms 750 acres In partnership MACMA committees; Michigan Aspara- member and past master; and National with his father. Ashley, who also does gus Advisory Board member; 12 years Rifle Association member. He received custom sheep shearing, is head of the as a Cass County Soil Conservation the SolI Conservation Service's Farmer Clinton County Fair sheep committee; a District delegate; Cass County FB of the Year award in 198.3 and is a Clinton County Fair Association mem- member; and church treasurer. member of the Methodist Church. ber; a Clinton County FB executive board member; active on various com- Oct. 8 - David McQuarrie • .3.3,of Oct. 22 - J. Dean Smltb. 25, of mittees in the FB Young Farmer pro- Marlette, farms 1,200 acres and milks Bay Port, operates a 1,.300 acre cash gram; past pastor-parish committee 170 cows in partnership with two crop, dairy and beef farm In partnership chairperson in his church; active in 4-H; brothers. His activities include: Sanilac with his father and brother. His ac- and serves on the 4-H livestock sales County FB board member; secretary of tivities and honors include: Huron committee. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 17 FARM CREDIT SERVICES HELPING YOU HARVEST THE SUCCESS YOU DESERVE Doubts. That's what JOU get without the right estate plan. Howard Pakola, estate planning consultant. If you haven't seen a Farm Credit estate planner, then you're missing out on a financial security tool of crucial importance. As an agricultural estate planner, I see the value of my work every day. I sit down with the farmer, and sometimes with entire farm families, to give them an in-depth look at the financial structure of their business. And with that kind of information on the table, we move ahead to build the strongest, most future-driven operation possible-to reduce the tax bite and to lay the groundwork for keeping the farm in the family for generations to come. ~mo When you come to the Land Bank and Production Credit for estate planning, you can put your mind at ease. That's because we understand your operation and the laws that affect it Every Farm Credit estate planner is a professional who does farm estate planning and only farm estate planning. In an ever more complicated field, we have the answers. We can take ~ CR b care of a very special set of financial needs for your family and your operation. So, if you've ever wanted to talk about your estate, there's no better time ~ ~ than right now:And there's no better person to talk to than the Farm Credit estate planning consultant u>~ ~~ Call or stop in soon. R VIe The Federal Land Bank and Production Credit Associations. ~~ z :;-; • Both are part ofFarm Credit Services. Helping you harvest the success ., II I you deserve. ~ I. I News People Earn FB's ,Ag Communicator' Titles By Donna Wilber "There is no single industry Robert Armstrong . which is more greatly impacted WI'IIC/WTGV-FM, Sandusky Since 1975, the Michigan by the decisions of others than Farm Bureau, in cooperation "Surprised, delighted, flat- agriculture," Smith said. "Those with county Farm Bureaus, has teredl" was how Robert Arm- decisions are made daily by carried out an annual news strong, general manager of those who have little or no media recognition program WMIC/WTGV-FM,Sandusky, understanding of the unique called "Agricultural Com- summed up his reaction to win- problems farmers face in pro- municator of the Year." ning the title of Michigan Farm ducing food and fiber. County FBs are encouraged to Bureau's" Agricultural Com- "Gaining the understanding honor local news media people municator of the Year." and support of these decision- they feel have done an out- The station is the prime infor- makers, and of the general pub- standing job of covering mation source for .farmers in lic that influences those deci- agriculture and Farm Bureau Sanilac County, furnishing them sions, is vitally important to activities. Recognition of the with local weather reports, farmers. As less than .3% of the news people usually takes place markets and agricultural news. population, we need all the help at county annuals where they "Anything I can do for farm- we can get. And the most effec- receive a certificate naming ers, I'm glad to do," said Arm- tive help we do get is from them" Agricultural. Communi- strong. "That's our job." dedicated journalists who de- cator of the Year" and express- But Sanilac County FB leaders liver the story of agriculture to ing appreciation for their ser- said the services Armstrong their audiences. vice to the farming community. provides go beyond just doing a "In Farm Bureau, we don't Only those news people who job. They think he's special, take that support for granted," are recognized at the grassroots he said. level and then nominated by county FBs are eligible for the state title. Judging is based mainly on what the communica- tors' efforts mean to the farm- ers in their audiences and how closely they work with the coun- ty FB as a primary information source. Size of the communica- tor's audience is not a factor. Two winners are chosen for the state title - one print journalist and one broadcast journalist. They are recognized during a special reception held in con- junction with the MFB annual meeting. According to President Elton R. Smith, the news media recognition program provides an opportunity for the organiza- tion to express appreciation to those who help farmers gain understanding and support of Robert Armstrong. general manager of WMIC/WTGV-FM,Sandusky, their industry by the general nominated by the Sanilac County Farm Bureau, is Michigan Farm public. Bureau's 1984 Agricultural Communicator of the Year in the elec- tronic category. Sanilac FB leaders call him "a true friend of agriculture. " RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 19 special enough to honor him as Armstrong lists three impor- James Weicker their county "Communicator of tant resources that help him Jackson Citizen Patriot the Year" and nominate him for serve farmers in the station's Sharing top honors with Arm- the state title. audience, with the Sanilac strong as MFB's "Agricultural County FB at the top. "The Communicator of the Year" for farmers in this area are well- 1984 is James Weicker, staff represented by the Sanilac writer for the Jackson Citizen County Farm Bureau. They're Patriot. nominated by the Jack- very active and effective," he son County Farm Bureau. said. "We also think the invest- Weicker got the news of his ment we make to provide our honor almost as an anniversary farm listeners with John McMur- present for his first year at the ray's weather service is well paper. He had come to the worthwhile. Jackson daily from Marquette "We're also on the Michigan University in Milwaukee where Farm Radio Network and Bob he was working on his master's Driscoll does a great job for in journalism. It was, in fact, a us," Armstrong said. He was im- project he undertook to com- pressed to learn that both plete his master's that turned Driscoll and the late Howard Jackson County FB leaders, dis- Heath, founder of the network, illusioned by the lack of agricul- were past "Communicators of tural coverage in their daily the Year." newspaper, into Jim Weicker "That puts me in some pretty fans. good company," he said. "The agricultural beat is not Being honored by the Sanilac really mine," Weicker explained. County FB tells Armstrong he's "1 cover township and, of on track in his desire to serve course, there's a lot of agricul- Cathy Knoerr, president of the the farm community. So does tural news on that beat, so I Sanilac County FB, Is one of Arm- the advertising support the sta- first got involved from that strong's key resources, helping tion receives to make it all angle. I wanted to do a series him to serve the area's farm com- possible. munity with news of agricultural on something to complete my Issues and events. Armstrong started his radio master's and thought agricul- career when he worked at the ture might be an ideal situation Bad Axe station while still in for me. There were tons of op- high school. After attending St. portunities, it was an area that "He's a true friend of agricul- Clair Community College and ture and serves our rural com- had been neglected, and it graduating from Ferris State would give me a chance to get munity very well," said Cathy College with a degree in busi- Knoerr, Sanilac County FB presi- out and talk to people who work ness, there was still a spot open for a living - real people." dent. "Bob has worked closely for him at the Bad Axe station. with us in promoting all of our Weicker's Sunday series cov- Instead, he accepted a position ered the contributions special activities, legislative at WMIC. issues, agricultural announce- Jackson's agricultural industry That was 13 years ago and to- makes to the county's econ- ments, mall promotions, educa- day, Bob and his wife, Marilyn, a tional programs and informa- omy, the history of farming, business teacher at the local women in agriculture, young tion meetings. high school, their four-year-old "He has always been helpful farmers, migrant workers and daughter and one-year-old-~on rural lifestyles. in developing advertising for have their roots firmly planted projects we're working on. We It was this series, which the in the Sandusky community. can provide him with bits of in- Jackson County FB leaders felt ''I'm glad I made that deci- formation and he will put to- reached the non-farm audience sion 13 years ago," he said. to create a better understand- gether a spot that is interesting "So are wel" said Knoerr. and gets the point across. ing of, and appreciation for, "We're very proud to recog- their industry, plus his regular nize Bob for a Job well done," coverage of their activities, that she said. earned Jim Weicker the county "Agricultural Communicator" title and nomination for the state award. 20 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 "Jim has taken a step we thought was impossible. We've complained for a long time be- cause the paper didn't recog- nize agriculture as being worthy of coverage. But since Jim's been there, we work together, helping each other," said Tom Betz, Jackson County FB presi- dent. "He's doing a super jobl" Weicker credits the Jackson County FB leadership for being helpful, cooperative agricultural resource persons and making his job easier. "The Farm Bureau folks have been wonderfully helpful to me, everyone on the board, the county secretary, and especially Tom. Every time I call - and I know how busy farmers are - they take time to sit down and help me out. It makes it so much easier when they're that James Weicker, Jackson Citizen Patriot, nominated by the Jackson cooperative," he said. County Farm Bureau, is MFB's 1984 Agricultural Communicator of the Year in the print category. De credits Tom Betz (left), Jackson FB Weicker didn't start out to be president, and the county board with helping him cover the a journalist. When his family's agricultural scene. business, the Weicker Grain Company in Ohio, was sold, he went to Miami University for Runners-up two years, then transferred to Albion Co]]ege, graduating in Because of the high quality of 1980. nominations made by county "I wasn't sure what I wanted FBs in the 1984 agricultural to do when I graduated, so I communicator program, judges spent a year in Virginia building recommended that four runners- up be recognized. houses. I seriously considered going to law school. I've always They are Kasey Lowe, WWUP- had an interest in politics - TV, Sault Ste. Marie, nominated not as a politician but as a by the Chippewa County FB; layman - and I've always en- Jerry Van, WMAM, Marinette, Wis., nominated by Menominee joyed writing, so I thought jour- County FB; K.athleen Longcore, ,J nalism would be a good way to combine those two interests," Orand Rapids Press, nominated he said. That's when he decided by the Kent and Ottawa County to take the money he'd saved FBs; and Brett McLaughlin, from building houses to go to Tuscola County Advertiser, Marquette for his master's in nom inated by the Tuscola journalism. County FB. The news people, hosted by The Jackson County FB lead- their nominating county FB ers are proud that the young leaders, were to be honored dur- Journalist, after only a year in ing an "Agricultural Com- his chosen vocation, has earned Weicker was honored by the the state's largest farm organi- municator of the Year" recep- Jackson FB for his Sunday series tion at the Grand Center in covering the county's agricul- zation's recognition as a top Grand Rapids on Nov. 28. tural industry and its people, as agricultural communicator. well as bis coverage of their ac- tivities. The Jackson County leaders felt the Sunday series helped promote a better under- standing of their industry by the non-farm public. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 21 Radio Stations Featuring FB Programs WABJ - ADRIAN - 1490 WATZ- ALPENA- 1450 WPAG- ANN ARBOR- 1050 WLEW- BAD AXE - 1340 WHFB- BENTONHARBOR- 106Q WKYO- CARO- 1360 0" WGWY- CHARLOTTE- 1390 Satellite Uplink Speeds Farm News to Michigan Stations The high-tech harvest of news For Mike Rogers, manager of Farm Bureau programs to be and information for farmers will MFB's broadcast services de- distributed over the satellite in- get a boost this month when partment, the new satellite clude Accent Agriculture," a II radio stations on the Michigan transmissions mean savings in we~kly program of interviews Farm Radio Network (MFRN) time and money, and increased with agricultural newsmakers, begin receiving satellite trans- programming opportunities. features about Michigan's farm missions. "Satellite uplinking" "In the past, our radio shows industry, and reports on legisla- also means faster delivery of were produced at the Farm Bu- tive and regulatory issues. The Michigan Farm Bureau radio reau Center broadcast studios 20-year-old program is currently programs. in Lansing, then duplicated and Farm Bureau is the first mailed to radio stations. It was customer to take advantage of sometimes a week before sta- the network's satellite com- tions got the tape and aired it munications by leasing time for for "farmers to hear. Now, by daily and weekly programs. sending programs via satellite, Thirty-six stations on the net- stations "will be able to use our work will have access to Farm information almost as fast as Bureau radio shows through we can get it recorded," Rogers twice-daily transmissions. said. "In addition, sending pro- "That means farmers who grams via satellite is actually listen to those stations will hear less expensive than duplicating Farm Bureau news and view- and mailing out a large volume points with much less time of radio tapes." delay," said Bob Driscoll, MFRN executive director. 22 I1URAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 WTVB - COLDWATER- 1590 WCEN- MT. PLEASANT- 1150 WVGO- ST. JOHNS - 1580 WDOW- DOWAGIAC- 1440 WKBZ- MUSKEGON- 850 WMLM- ST. LOUIS - 1520 WJEB - GLADWIN - 1350 WSMA- MARINE CITY - 1590 WMIC- SANDUSKY- 1560 WPLB- GREENVILLE- 1380 WNBY- NEWBERRY- 1450 WCSY- SOUTH HAVEN - 940 WPLB-FM- GREENVILLE- 107.3 WOAM - OTSEGO- 980 WSTR- STURGIS- 1230 WBCH- HASTINGS- 1220 WOAP- OWOSSO- 1080 WKJC-FM- TAWAS CITY - 103.9 WCSR- HILLSDALE - 1340 WJPW- ROCKFORD- 810 WLKM - THREE RIVERS- 1510 WHTC- HOLLAND - 1450 WHAK - ROGERSCITY - 960 WTCM- TRAVERSECITY - 580 WDEY- LAPEER- 1530 WSGW- SAGINAW- 790 WTCM-FM- TRAVERSECITY- 103.5 WKLA - LUDINGTON- 1450 WMKC-FM- ST. IGNACE - 102.9 produced by Cary Blake, coor- What does the future hold? he said. "We may also develop dinator of broadcast services. Driscoll's plans include expand- new consumer-oriented pro- Other programs include "Farm ing the satellite network to 100 gramming directed at this ur- News in Depth," a weekly series or more stations. ban audience, such as a food of short commentaries; "More "That's an important plus as news show to help non-farmers Bucks for Your Bushels," a we look toward future program- understand the impact that weekly program about the news ming," Rogers said. "Many of laws and regulations have on and events that affect farm in- the new stations will be in ur- the price and availability of come; and special events re- ban areas and that will open food products." porting. These programs are in new opportunities for communi- The above list shows the call addition to the daily Farm cating with a non-farm au- letters and frequencies of the Bureau news program aired by dience." radio stations that will have ac- the network, Rogers said. Since satellite transmissions cess to MFB radio shows over "We're also exploring the use will give more stations daily ac- the satellite system. To find out of the satellite system to distri- cess to Farm Bureau programs, what times the shows are aired bute radio public service an- Rogers expects that more Farm call your local station. nouncements, and we would Bureau information will be in- "If your local station is not like to try some live broad- serted into their regular airing Farm Bureau programs," casting, such as making a news newscasts. Rogers said, "call and tell them conference available to stations "That will give us a chance to that you would like to hear as it's happening." reach another consumer market more about Farm Bureau and The system can also be used and tell them about Farm Bu- the agricultural industry." to provide a direct newslink reau and Michigan agriculture," from such events as the MFB annual meeting, Washington Legislative Seminar, and the AFBF annual meeting. Upllnklng AlloW8 for Future Growth The high-tech move for MFRN and MFB is the latest in nearly 15 years of news and informa- tion programming. "Farm Bureau has provided news and reports to the Farm Radio Network since it was organized almost 15 years ago," Driscoll said. "Farmers in Michigan want to know what's going on in Farm Bureau and how the state's largest farm organization stands on state and national issues. Farm Bu- reau's participation in this high- tech project will continue to Comrex transmission equipment actually Improves voice quality, says bring this information to their Mike Rogers, MFBBroadcast Services Department manager. members statewide." RURAL L1VINO, D£C£MB£R 1984 2:3 The Discussion Topic is used by Community Ac- tion Groups for monthly polley discussions. Promotion and Advertising of Agricultural Products Each year farmers give finan- cial support to promotion and research programs for their products. National records from 1982 indicate that some 43 as- sociations, financed by funds deducted from the sale of farm products, directed the expen- diture of $84.2 million on generic advertising for food products, wool and cotton. This figure does not include money used for research in support of the commodities involved. Generic advertising, unlike brand advertising, does net urge the consumer to purchase or use a specific brand. Instead Generally, farmers believe in generic advertising seeks to product promotion, but one of promote a particular commodi- the major problems of this not a lot of risk. "Search ty without regard for brand generic advertising has been goods" are products relatively identification. Examples are ads the issue of the "free rider," high in cost and last for an ex- which say, "Drink milk," "Eat I.e., the producer who does not tended period. A washing ma- apples," "Wool is best." Brand participate in the program. chine or a car are examples of advertising bears a company In an effort to mitigate this search goods. Experience goods name. Examples are "Use Shady problem, many promotion and lend themselves very well to Lane maple syrup," "Buy Sandy research programs are devel- generic promotion. Consumers Farms potatoes." oped through legislation at shop around for search goods, Whether it is brand advertis- either the state or federal level. therefore, brand advertising is ing or generic advertising, the Usually the legislative approach most effective for these prod- purpose of promotion is to in- is to authorize a referendum ucts. crease demand for a product through which producers ap- The usual argument for com- and, therefore, the price for the prove the program and the level modity promotion programs is product. That's the economic of funding. In the past, about that food and fiber products are theory: An increase in demand one-third of the eligible pro- in competition for the consum- causes increased price which in- ducers vote in a referendum. ers' dollar. These proponents creases the income of the pro- Because of this low level of par- argue that other products are ducer. ticipation, it has been said that advertised, therefore, agricul- The theory , however, is open the minority rules these pro- tural goods must be advertised, to argument even among econ- grams. Others justify producer too. For example, soft drink omists. Some support the referendums by pointing out companies spend enormous theory entirely. There are some that all producers had the op- sums promoting their products. who raise questions and some portunity to vote. These compete with milk and who say the theory sim ply Food products are categorized fruit drinks. In response, doesn't hold water. Whether or as "experience goods" by mar- organizations such as the not you are in favor of generic keting people. This means that American Dairy Association commodity promotion, a better the cost is low, the duration of have made a considerable in- understanding of the theory use is short, and purchases are vestment in attractive, generic may be useful to you in evalu- made frequently. Therefore, advertising to promote milk ating the effectiveness of adver- people are willing to try a prod- and dairy products to the con- tising promotions. uct even on a whim. There is sumer. 24 RURAL LIVING, DeCEMBER 1984 It has been suggested that audience has been reached, or marketing techniques, identify- agriculture faces a unique prob- to measure the effect on sales ing nutritional benefits and lem since people will only con- of the commodity being pro- determining changing consum- sume so much food. Therefore, moted. er attitudes. the successful promotion of one Because of health and nutri- Food advertising expenditures product may increase consump- tional concerns, whether real or have increased dramatically. tion, but decrease the demand perceived, many people avoid One economic research publica- for another. For example, while certain foods. Notable effects tion states, "media advertising potato consumption may in- are a decrease in red meat con- by food manufacturers alone crease as a result of increased sumption in recent years, high- averages well above 3% of advertising, rice consumption er consumption of poultry, and sales; food retailers spend an may decrease. A higher con- a per capita decrease in sugar additional 1% of their sales on sumption of beef may lower the consumption. Can promotion advertising." Other forms of consumption of pork. programs change these trends? sales promotion such as cou- There is an exception. Some- What would the trends be with- pons, ince~tives, samples and times agricultural products out promotion? some direct sales force activity compete with non-agricultural would probably raise the inten- goods. Cotton and wool, while sity of advertising to 8% of somewhat competitive, find sales. their real competitiori in man- Whether it's brand All economists tend to agree made fibers. Any promotion advertising or that promotion and market de- which increases cotton and velopment in foreign countries wool use comes at the expense generic advertising, are valuable to American agri- of non-agricultural products, cultural producers. These ef- the purpose of pro- forts are aimed toward market therefore, it is a gain for agricultural producers. motion is to in- expansion and therefore There have been suggestions beneficial. that promotion funds should be crease demand and, Promotion of agricultural available to companies to ad- therefore, the price products has long been sup- vertise their products by brand ported by farmers. The practice name. Most economists believe for the product. is necessary, but it is not a one- such action may well increase sided issue. Farmers should dis- sales for the company involved, cuss promotion programs and but not total sales of the product. Promotional efforts must also demand that they be effectively Some economists question address other lifestyle trends in developed and administered. the worth of promotion pro- our society. For example, Amer- Farmers cannot afford to accept grams largely because there is icans eat over one-third of their these programs on faith alone. no reliable measurement of re- meals outside the home. Fast sults. They point out that an in- food chains, which serve a Questions for Discussion dividual company will spend significant share of this market, -In the opinion of your group, money in advertising only so have developed tremendous should producer money be long as it brings in more reve- markets for agricultural prod- used for brand advertising? nue than is spent. These econo- ucts. But, it has been argued -Should more of the money col- mists believe promotion agen- that people eating outside the lected from producers be cies may spend money in adver- home choose from menu used in research projects and tising beyond the point of being specials and are not swayed by less in advertising? profitable to producers. promotion programs. Others - How many of your group This raises two questions: "Is say that promotion provides a members feel they can eat enough research done to mea- message which, consciously or more food? sure the effectiveness of promo- subconsciously, influences a - How effective do you consider tion expenditures?" and "Is a person's eating habits. the following promotion tools large enough portion of funds Research projects, also impor- for a food product: distribu- spent on research projects?" tant to increasing consumption tion of recipes at the store, Farmers often participate in a and demand for products, in- radio advertising, discount program on faith that a good clude developing new product coupons, TV ads, in-store job is being done. Yet many uses, improving production and sampling? times there is no market re- search to verify that the target RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 25 New Seat Belt Coverage Adds $10,000 Benefit at No Extra Costl Farm Bureau Mutual has in- belt in any vehicle insured by This new benefit for Farm troduced a new $10,000 benefit Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Bureau members is designed to - added to its auto policies at Company of Michigan. help save lives. no extra cost - to encourage The coverage, which became "We know that seat belts can Michigan Farm Bureau members effective Nov. 15, 1984, will pay save lives and reduce injuries," to use their seat belts. $10,000 to the estate of any oc- said Elton Smith, MFB presi- The $10,000 benefit covers cupant who is fatally injured in dent, "but only a small percent- each occupant wearing a seat an auto accident while properly age of drivers and passengers wearing a seat belt. use them. Webelieve our $10,000 per-person benefit will encour- age all the occupants of a Farm Bureau Mutual insured auto to buckle up, and that will mean more lives saved." FlGHTLUNG The coverage applies to all auto policies issued by Farm Bureau Mutual. Occupants prop- DISEASE WITH erly wearing seat belts or lap and shoulder restraints - in- cluding children in approved child restraint devices - are CURl S protected by the coverage. Another benefit for FB Mutual insureds with comprehensive S automobile coverage is emer- gency road service at no addi- tional charge. Farm Bureau Mutual's auto insurance policy is available only to FB members. Premium AMERICA"W"G ASSOCIlTIO" savings and the extra benefits of seat belt coverage and road service at no additional charge are just another way FB member-only insurance pro- grams are "making your future a little more predictable." Your local Farm Bureau Insur- ance agent call tell you more about the benefits of an FB Mutual auto policy. AMERICAN :I: LUNG ASSOCIATION 227 page Illustrated book explains sausage making plus home curing and smoking of meat, fowl and I. The Christmas Seal People @ fish. Over 100 recipes. We now have Low San Seasonings. Free equipment and supply catalog has more information. The SAUSAGEMAKER 177-56 Military Road Buffalo. N.Y. 14207 26 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 A G R I NOM I (' U P D ATE Animal Welfare Issues Animal rights groups are The care of farm animals and the impact of modern produc- sharpening their "political" tion systems on livestock and poultry reared in such environ- skills and the target is ments are major concerns for farmers. The number of groups organized to promote animal product_on agriculture rights is growing. The "politi- cal" skill of these organiza.tions and individuals is improving rapidly as they learn how to in- fluence decision-makers on the local, state and national levels. The use of animals in re- search has been singled out in the last several months by many of these organizations. The impact proposed restric- tions would have on agriculture research is difficult to measure. However, they most certainly would increase the cost of such research and possibly increase the amount of time necessary to complete the research. Also, any precedent set by legislation related to the use of animals in research could ultimately lead to a mandate for the treatment of farm animals as well. As a result of the research that was started in Great Britain during the 1960s, several Euro- pean countries have adopted various" codes for the welfare of livestock and poultry" which specify in moderate detail the requirements for adequate housing, ventilation, tempera- ture, lighting, mechanical equipment and services, live- stock and poultry densities, food and water, and manage- ment. These laws have restricted the. use of cages for poultry and limited the production of milk- fed veal. Other proposals, such as the size of farrowing crates and the amount of time sows may spend in them, also are un- der consideration. RURAL LIVINO, Dl!CEMBl!R 1984 27 In the fall of 1982, legislation and eliminate lab animal re- to the general public as well. In was introduced in the Michigan search. addition to promoting agricul- House of Representatives which Farm Bureau testified in op- tural lessons in the schools, would have seriously impacted position to the Dole bill when a members can coordinate mall agriculture's ability to produce. hearing was held on it last year. and fair displays and other pro- Fortunately, Farm Bureau and A mark-up on the bill by the motional activities which pro- other groups responded imme- Senate Agriculture Committee vide accurate information to diately and the bill was with- was scheduled for early May consumers and decision makers. drawn. Nowever, we must con- 1984, but postponed at the last tinue to monitor this area in minute. No new date has been Agrinomic Update is prepared our state Legislature as well as set. monthly by MFB's Commodity our local communities and at Michigan Farm Bureau has Activities & Research Depart- the national level. provided information and edu- ment. Over a dozen county boards cation not only to farmers, but of commissioners have been contacted by representatives of these various animal welfare groups urging them not to en- MDA Director Kindinger dorse pound seizure. Pound seizure is the practice of releas- ing county animal control ani- Reviews First Year Goals mals to research facilities for Dr. Paul Kindinger recently be assigned to the state's for- laboratory and research pur- completed his first year as eign offices in Brussels and poses. In particular, several director of the Michigan Depart- Tokyo to provide direct support counties in southeastern Michi- ment of Agriculture. At a press to Michigan firms interested in gan have already adopted local briefing in late October he agricultural export opportuni- county ordinances prohibiting reported on the department's ties. pound seizure. In Jackson progress and his objectives for Agriculture is the second County a major battle took the future. largest industry in Michigan place this past year by the His major priorities include and its growth is essential to Jackson County Farm Bureau improving the MDA's standing the state's long-term economic and others to fend off attacks within state government, creat- viability. on the county's policy of ing stronger communications To provide for the greatest authorizing pound seizure as with MDA's diverse constit- possible growth, Kindinger be- well as offering pet owners a uencies and developing an ag- lieves farmers and agribusiness choice. gressive marketing program. must recognize their interde- On the national level, N.R. A member of the governor's pendence and be willing to work 3170, the Modern Farm Animal cabinet council on jobs and cooperatively toward that goal. Practices Bill, has been in- economic development, Kindin- "Too often people think of troduced by Congressman Jim ger chairs the subcommittee on agriculture in just farming Howard (D-N.J.). If passed, the the food processing industry. terms," he said. "While produc- bill would establish a special "Michigan ranks second only to tion is the foundation of the 12-member commission to in- California in diversity of its agriculture industry, we must vestigate the effects of modern agricultural production," he also include the wholesalers, farm animal production. The said. "By developing greater retailers, processors, trans- commission would also study processing capability within our porters and the consumer - all the use of antibiotics such as state, we can create new mar- steps in the food chain which penicillin and tetracycline. kets for our farm products." makes up agriculture." Rep. George E. Brown (0- Expansion of agricultural Kindinger credits quick action Calif.) recently introduced a marketing opportunities abroad by Gov. Blanchard in declaring companion bill, N.R. 5725, to is another priority. During the 27 Michigan counties disaster one introduced last year by Sen. governor's trade mission to areas due to the adverse Robert Dole (R-Kan.) on animal Japan and China, several agree- weather conditions of this past welfare (S.B. 657). Although ments were reached which will spring and summer with help- details are not known about provide export opportunities for ing to keep the industry stable. N.R. 5725, Dole's bill clearly In- machinery and technology as "The wet spring, followed by tends to establish the concept well as agricultural products. summer drought conditions, of pain and suffering in animals Klndinger is also proposing that caused production losses of trade representatives from MDA 20% to 30%," he said. 28 RURAL LIVING, D~c~r.1BER 1984 FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE FARM EQUIPMENT MISCELLANEOUS DOGS REAL ESTATE lIog Equipment - Dei-Air Heat Ex- Satellite antenna brokers needed - for sa'e: Registered Australian For Sale: 74 acre farm. Nice corner loca- changers, Osborne Feeders, K.G. John- no experience required. Buy direct from Shepherds from working parents. These tion. Paved roads. For more Information, son Farrowing Crates, Chore-Time Feed- distributor. Bypass middleman. Whole- dogs work and love familles. Port Austin, call 517-.321-5774. (I2-17p) Ing, Mix-Mill Systems. Hamilton Distri- sale $581. Retail $1,195. Call day or phone 517 -7.38.8667. (12-14p) buting Company, 616-751-5161. night: .30.3-6.36-066.3 or write: Antenna, (6-12t-2.3p-ts) P.O. Box 152.36, Colorado Springs, Col' orado 809.35. (9-5t-.33p-ts-b) Grain Dryers - Stormor Ezee-Dry, Farm Fans Automatic, Used Dryers, no and $1.000 or morel That's what you'll CLASSIFIED AD POLICY Automatic. Hamilton Distributing Com- spend over the mortgage life of your pany,616-751-5161. (6-12t-17p-ts) house to get rid of unwanted Insects. Roaches, ants, silverfish, and other - Farm Bureau members pay 25 cents per word for all pests will be ellminatedl Money back classified advertisements. Guarantee. Under $1 Q - free details. LIVESTOCK Shadowfax, Inc .. P.O. Box 152N. -All other advertisers pay 50 cents per word for one insertion Foristell, MO 6.3.348. (1 Q-.3t-44p-ts) and 45 cents per word for two or more consecutive insertions Free Catalog - Wholesale prices, reds, of the same ad. cornish cross, barred rocks, sexllnks, Why die without a will? Two legal "Will Forms" and easy Instructions. Only -All advertisements are subject to a I5-word minimum white rocks, leghorns, turkeys, ducks. Reich Poultry Farms, R.D.I., Marietta, $4 ... Order Todayl Guaranteed I TY- charge, including member ads. Pennsylvania, 17547. (12-5t-22p~ts) Company, Box 1022-MF, Prior, OK ePlease Indicate if you are a Farm Bureau member. 74.362. (11-6t-22p-ts) Duroc Boars and Gilts sound and eThe deadline for ads is the first Monday of the month durable. Delivery available. Jim Pre- Cabbage Fatcb-Llke Dolisl Complete preceding publication. vlch, 8147 Forrlster Road, Adrian, Mich. Instructions, patterns, birth certificates. eAll ads must be pre-paid and may be pre-paid up to one 49221. 517-265-4112. (6-12t-18p) $2.75. Hamlltons, Box 652-1.31, New Ulm, Minn. 5607.3. (l2-22p-ts) year in advance. Corrledale Sheep breeding stock. Blue -It is the responsibility of the advertiser to re-insert the ad on ribbon fleeces. Phone .31.3-429-7874. a month-by-month or year-by-year basis. (.3-12t-8p) eThe publisher has the right to reject any advertising copy submitted. FOR nOMEMAKERS NURSERY STOCK - No ads will be taken over the phone. Delicious potato casserole made with Send ads to: lIybrid poplar starting at 13 cents hash browns. Recipe $1.00. SASE. Rural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909 each. Other trees and shrubs. Cold Resden's, 1887 Blazer Road, Monroe, Stream Farm, 20.30T Freesoll Road, Mich. 48161. (9-5t-17p) Freesoll, Mich. 49411. Phone 616- 464.-5809, (11-.3t-A-20p) Great Grandma's Lightning Cake - $1.00 SASE, Garrod, 4.34.37 52nd Street. Lawrence, Mich. 49064. (l2-1.3p) Name Berry Flants - Raspberries, strawber- ries, blueberries, currants. gooseberries, others. Free catalog. Maklelskl Berry Guardian Service Glass Covers' Also, Address _ Nursery, 7130 Platt Road, Dept. RL, Ypsi- other discontinued cookware parts. lantI. Mich. 48197. Phone .31.3-4.34-.367.3. Guardian, Box .3.392A. Orange, CaliL (l1-12t-22b) 92665. (12-.3t-14p-ts) OFarm Bureau member ONon-member $AVE money with a Run the following ad in the issue(s): Farm Bureau membership These service to member programs add up to money in your pocket: -Direct marketing of top quality food products - Buyer's Service for major purchases -New car and truck discounts -Group purchasing of tires, batteries and steel -Marketing information via a computer network -Group health care insurance , I -Personal and property insurance I -Discount on farm fasteners and hardware I -And much, much more ... I Words lnsertions Total Due _ I ------------------ 1 I RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1984 Call your county coordinator or BUY YOUR NEXT CAR AT 1 % county Farm Bureau office. ANogin County OVER FACTORY INVOICE Gus Knikelbine — (616) 561-2113 Alpena County Donald Neumann — (517) 727-2008 Save hundreds of dollars on Antrim County Dan Wieland — (616) 588-6074 Barry County a new American car or truck! Tom Guthrie — (616) 623-2261 My County Harlan Eisenmann — (517) 684-0424 Sav-On Cars is furnishing Farm Bureau members important Benzie County George Milligan — (616) 352-9741 car-cost information which will save you substantial time Branch County Gene Easterday — (517) 278-4109 and money when shopping for your next car. Cilhoun County Richard Marshall — (517) 629-3340 C m County Save-on Cars with Your Farm Bureau — HERE'S HOW: Carl Sparks — (616) 445-3195 Cheboygan County Cheboygan Co-op — (616) 627-4605 • Select as many cars or trucks as you are seriously considering Fill in the appropriate in- Chlppewe County formation on the coupon below Rike Equipment — (906) 636-1241 • Within one business day of receiving your request we will return to you a computer Ctoro County Donald Armentrout — (517) 386-7448 printout personalized for the specific model(s) you have selected. This Car-Option Copper Country Printout will show you the wholesale and retail cost for the base model and for each Leonard Ollila — (906) 482-4487 and every option available on that particular model. Eaton County Hamilton Tire & Battery — (517) 543-3682 • You pick the options YOU want, at home, without being pressured Then, at the bot- Emmet County tom of your Car-Option Printout you will f i n d a simple form to f i l l out which will help John Sterly — (616) 526-5157 you calculate the final dealer invoice cost, including any mandatory charges Genesoe County Florence Jenkins — (517) 271-8611 • Use this price to negotiate your best deal w i t h your local dealer, OR, if we list a par- Gretlot County ticipating factory-authorized dealer in your general area, you can buy the car from Ken Davis — (517) 847-3861 him at an average of just 1 % over dealer invoice. Hlllidile County Doyce Meriilat — (517) 448-8628 Huron County Robert Duncanson — (517) 479-6428 Inghont County Please send me a price and options printout for each model listed below Mel Stofer — (517) 589-8416 Ionia County Style Craig Harder — (616) 527-2677 IMCO County Model Year Make Model IMPORTANT Terry Bellville — (517) 756-3432 Etample Jockton County LESABRE 4-DOOR Gary Spicer — (517) 563-8483 1984 BUICK Kalamazoo County LIMITED SEDAN Larry Leach — (616) 746-4648 Kalkaska County Foster McCool — (616) 258-4834 1 car Kent County John Finkbeiner — (616) 891-8257 «nd Uptor County ofccati Charles Cichoracki — (313) 688-2792 Lonoweo County ~y rd Robert Bush — (517) 423-2049