A CHEVY 5-10 PICK-UP WIN! - - fOR ONE YEAR\ NOTHINGWORKSLIKEA CHEvYTRUCK." ~ MICHIGAN FARM B UREAU Get started! State c OUNG FARMER selected at d' t' ontestants are th roughout thIS net Dis cuss Ion . Meets DISCUSSION estate. Be Dis in to. Win. ., The 1985 Yo th cusslon Meet will b Dung Farmer e MFB Annual M .e ec. 11 during eetlng. MEET DISTRICT DISCUSSION M EET SCHEDULE D~strict 1- Se t. 24 D~strict 5 - Se t. 2 District 8 - A D~strict 2 - s/ t. 10 District . 6 _ A ug. P 245 D Istrict 7 - Sept. 11 District 9 _ Aug. 27 . ug. 29 D Istrict 10 - A ug.28 D~strict 3 - S/ t. 1 DIstrict 4 - S ept. P 128 JULY 1985 FARM NEWS VOL. 64 NO.7 A publication of the "Baltimore Album Quilt," ca. Michigan 1850. Promised gift of Mr. & Mrs. James Q'Keene to the Farm Bureau Museum of American Folk Art. In this issue: America & Me 10 Great American Quilt Contest Salutes Nation's Heritage 12 FB Women launch 'Project 51,000' to Gain Support for National legislation 18 Spirit of Cooperation Blooming in Wayne County 19 TV Show Provides Exciting Challenges for Co-Hosts 21 COLUMNS Rural Route - page 4 Rural Exchange - page 14 Country Ledger - page 5 Agrinomic Update - page 24 Legislative Review - page 6 Discussion Topic - page 26 Front & Center - page 13 Farm Bureau Market Place - page 31 IItlchlgan Farm "ews RURAL LlVI"O: 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 Office Bo,,"30960; telephone. Lansing 517-323-7000, Extension 510. SUBSCRIFTIO" PRICE: $1.50 per year to members. included in annual dues. $3.00 per year non-members in Michigan, $5.00 per year non-l11emoers out of state. Publication No. 345040. Established Jan. 13, 1923 as Michigan Farm News, name changed to Michigan farm News Rural LivIng Dec. I, 1981. Third-class postage paid at Lansing. Michigan. and at additional mailing offices. EDITORIAL: Connie Turbin. Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber, Contributing Editor; Marcia Ditchie, Associate Editor; Cathy J. Klrvan, Associate Editor. OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; Prcsident. Elton R. Smith, Caledonia; Vice President. John Laurie, Cass City; Administrative Director, Robert Bradcn; Treasurcr and Chief Financial Officer. Matthew But- zin; Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District I, Arthur Bailey, Schoolcraft; District 2, Loweil Eisenmann, Blissfield; District 3. James Sayre, Bellevlllc; District 4, Elton R. Smith. Caledonia; District 5, Albert Cook. Mason; District 6, John Lauric, Cass City; District 7, Robert Rider. Hart; District 8. Lyle LeCronler. Freeland; District 9, Donald Nugent. Frankfort; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District II. Bernard Doll. Daftcr. DIRECTORS AT LAROE: Dave Conklin. Corunna; Michael Pridgeon, Montgomery; Wayne Wood, Marlctte. FARIIt BUREAU WOlltE": Faye Adam. Snovcr. FARIIt BUREAU YOUl'IO FARlltERS: David LotI. Mason. Will Reagan Tax Plan Uelp Ag~iculture? Thi.s.has be~n a year of deci- each one of those proposals, posed new limits on some de- sion for agriculture. The farm .J 1 measuring them against FB ductions may increase farmers' economy has forced nearly all policy and analyzing how fairly net profit so they would pay farmers to make tough deci- agriculture is treated. more in Social Security self. sions, some the painful choice Such a study is now underway employment taxes. of an alternate vocation; others to analyze President Reagan's Because of the many provi- the uncomfortable choice of recently-announced tax reform sions of the proposal that affect belt-tightening measures. package. Certainly we don't farmers, a careful analysis is It's not just "down on the have to wait until that study is vital. We need to weigh, for ex- farm" that decisions affecting completed to support some of ample, the impact of tax simpli- agriculture are being made. In the concepts of the president's fication against the treatment Congress, crucial decisions will proposal. We support reduc- of advanced depreciation sched- be made that will impact on the tions in tax rates and a modi. ules, capital gains, minimum future well-being of our indus- fied flat rate income tax - as tax requirements and invest- try. One, of course, is Farm Bill long as it is revenue neutral, ment tax credits. '85 and there's been few issues and we certainly support the Realistically, there is not like- that have utilized Farm simplified tax reporting pro- ly to be any tax reform proposal Bureau's great resource - its posal. that will be all good for all pro- members - to the extent that We also know, without study, ducers. But we can use our this one has. We are confident that we cannot support any tax Farm Bureau resources to make that the result of that utiliza- reform proposal that would sure that agriculture is treated tion will be a new farm program become a tax hike as a substi- fairly. that reflects what FB's farmer tute for cuts in federal spend- Keep abreast of this impor- members said they needed. ing, and you can be sure there tant issue. When the time Another crucial decision that will be such proposals. comes, we will need to mobilize will be made by Congress that The USDA tells us that the our forces, just as we have done will have as much, if not more, president's plan would benefit and will continue to do, on impact on agriculture as Farm most family farmers because of Farm Bureau's farm bill. With Bill '85 is tax reform. Farm the lower tax rates and in- that kind of effort, we can - Bureau members recognized creased personal exemptions. and will - achieve much that when they adopted policy However, some farmers who use needed tax reform that will calling for a correction of the current provisions such as the benefit farmers as individual inequities in our current tax investment tax credit and ac- taxpayers and as businesses. system. They said our nation's celerated depreciation could end up paying more. ,~ ~~L tax policy should be fair and simple and encourage private USDAsays most producers initiative and economic growth. would pay less because the There are many proposals be- lowered rates and increased ex- Elton R. Smith, President ing touted as the best solution emption would offset deduc- Michigan Farm Bureau to the tax reform puzzle. Your tions that would no longer be Farm Bureau will be studying available. However, the pro- 4 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 COUNTRY LEDGER From Fragrant Blossoms to Crisp Apples By Lillian Brake Dunckley My favorite Spy tree had a In the winter, bushels and hammock-like formation of boxes of the harvested fruit The fall I started first grade in limbs where I spent some filled the shelf and floor except our two-room country school, blossomtime and later many for a narrow path. The tem pera- my father decided we should happy, carefree summer hours. ture needed to be just above have a larger house. Three Sometimes my older brothers freezing to keep the fruit crisp. growing children and various would help me up and down. If a thin coat of ice formed on pets made our home seem to Their highest compliment was the pan of water on the shelf, grow smaller and smaller. My that I was "almost as good as a the door to the basement was grandfather had left my mother boy," left open just a crack to let in a a 40-acre piece about a half The yellow Harvest apples little heat from the furnace. mile away, and my father had ripened first, for pies and apple- Mom's "dumb waiter" shared bought a IO-acre apple orchard sauce, then the Red Astrachans, the coolness with the apples adjoining it. He wanted to live Duchess and McIntosh. These and served as our only refriger- in that apple orchard. were followed by harvest of all ator. It was about 18" square A site was chosen at the top of the winter apples - Red and and had three shelves. It could of a gradual southern slope, in Golden Delicious, Jonathans, be pulled up by a rope into the the very edge of the orchard. Greenings, King, Spies and kitchen, loaded or unloaded Not one tree would need to be Wealthies. with food, and lowered again in- sacrificed. A good carpenter When frosty nights came to the cool cellar. was hired to build the house father would take apples to the On cold winter nights, before and father worked with him. cider mill for our barrel of cider. bedtime, father would check on Before snow, the house was Before the days were too the temperature in the apple roughed in and finished during frosty mom would be prepared cellar and bring up a bowl of the winter. "Brakemont" be- to make the apple butter, start- assorted apples for the family came a reality. ing with several gallons of ap- to enjoy. We each had our We moved into the new hquse plesauce and cider. Father favorites. in March, just in time to prune would erect sturdy, firmly- Then father would carefully the apple trees while they were crossed poles to hold the pare an apple with his jackknife dormant. I loved the new house. 20-gallon, copper-lined kettle into one long circular peel as he My handprint was in the plaster above the open fire. Marvelously talked to us about the orchard, above the basement stairs and fragrant spices and sugar were remembering the waiting, the my bare footprint on the step. stirred into the applesauce and spraying, all the hours of work, I had a bedroom all to myself cider mixture. Two or three then the harvesting of bushels on the second floor, with north neighbor women would help, and bushels of apples and, and east full-size, double-hung taking turns at stirring as more finally, shipping a whole freight windows. When the wind blew, and more apples were prepared carload of Jonathans from his the tips of some of the branches . and added. own orchard. For him, it was a tapped on the window panes. Wood smoke, happy voices dream come true, from blos- When the blossoms opened in and friendliness all contributed soms to apples. exquisite formations, their to the special taste and smell - delicate fragrance filled the a more mature fragrance than Editor's Note: We are pleased room from the open windows. I the delicate apple blossoms; a to have another contribution was in fairyland. In the summer taste of fruition and harvest. from Lillian Brake Dunckley. In we took the windows out and I Before dusk, the rich apple but- March we published her reminis- was part of the orchard. ter would be dipped into glass cences of maple syrup time, Shortly after the blossoms jars and sealed for winter use. "Sweet Nostalgia." The "home began to fall, green leaflets Beneath the woodshed father farm" for Ms. Dunckley was in would appear and then the tiny dug out a Michigan basement, west central Michigan where her green apples with their promise perhaps 12'x16'. On three sides family farmed for many genera- of growth. Rainy nights lulled he left a waist-high, yard-wide tions. She is currently living in me to sleep, listening to rain on dirt shelf. On the fourth side a Hayden, Colo. the woodshed roof. door opened into the basement of the house. RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 5 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW Riegle Announces De Will Co-Sponsor FB Farm Bill ated with the burning of leaded quirements for commerical ap- fuel, EPA has adopted regula- plicators; sets a timetable for tions which would suddenly re- updating health and safety data duce the amount of lead in files, requires that high risk gasoline. EPA is considering a pesticides be identified and total ban on leaded fuel in the listed; requires identification of Senate Farm Bill Co- near future. inert pesticide ingredients; Sponsor - One of Michigan's Rep. Edward Madigan of Il- restricts the use of conditional U.S. senators, Donald Riegle, joined the list of co-sponsors linois plans to introduce legisla- registration for pesticides; pro- for 5. 908, the FB farm bill pro- tion that would delay a ban on vides that pesticide cancella- posal, in mid-June. With the an- leaded gasoline until a joint tion proceedings be initiated nouncement of Riegle's deci- EPA-USDAstudy is made to when false, misleading or inac- sion, MFB has achieved its goal assess the impact of a lead ban curate information is used in of enlisting support from 50% on agriculture. pesticide registration; and of Michigan's congressional FB policy supports continued repeals the requirement that delegation for the legislation. production and use of leaded government indemnify holders gas that has the minimum lead of cancelled or suspended pesti- content sufficient to operate cides. those engines that require lead- The reforms would also pro- ed gasoline. FB is gathering in- hibit agricultural imports with formation on the use of leaded detectable levels of pesticides gasoline by farmers to docu- which have been cancelled, sus- ment the impact of a phase out pended, denied, or withdrawn in of leaded gas on farm opera- the U.S. tors, The questionnaire ap- FIFRA reforms would establish peared on page 25 in the June a private right of action which Rural Living. would allow civil suits to be in- itiated in federal district court against persons, or the federal Wheat Referendum - De- government, found to be in spite legislation permitting violation of FIFRA, and would delay, Agriculture Secretary prohibit any retaliation against Block predicts the wheat refer- an employee who has initiated endum will be held in July as action against the employer or scheduled, A House passed bill testified regarding alleged viola- would mandate the delay on the tions of FIFRA. SEN. DONALD RIEGLE referendum until 30 days fol- Another section establishes a lowing the final adjournment of groundwater protection pro- Congress. A similar bill approved gram which would require that At this writing, the FB farm bill by the Senate Agriculture Com- proposal in the House of Repre- a notice of intent to cancel mittee makes postponement sentatives (H.R. 1965) has 70 registration be issued by the optional. The bill has not yet co-sponsors including nine from administrator if any amount of been considered by the Senate. the Michigan delegation. Six pesticide is detected in ground- U.S. senators have co-sponsored water (unless state government 5. 908. Riegle is the first Demo- FIFRA Reform - Sixteen acts to control further con- crat to join the co-sponsors in sections of the Federal Insec- tamination or the registrant the Senate. ticide, Fungicide and Roden- amends the restrictions on the ticide Act (FIFRA) would be use of the pesticide). The FIFRA reformed under legislation in- administrator would also be Leaded Gas - The Environ- given the power to change pes- troduced in the U.S. House of mental Protection Agency (EPA) ticide use classifications or Representatives. is taking sudden action to end The bill, H.R. 2580, adds new modify labeling or packaging. the use of leaded gasoline. health and safety training re- Other sections of the FIFRA Citing health concerns associ- reform legislation would estab- quirements for certified ap- plicators and recordkeeping re- lish a worker health and safety 6 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 program and give administra- posal, the tax would be $23.00. A 150% increase! It is esti- News Media Receives tive power to issue regulations requiring protective clothing mated that the average annual 'Crash Course' on and equipment, medical care, turnover in a dairy herd is 10% and training for the protection to 12%. FB's Farm Bill '85 of employees working with In the case of swine, assume pesticides. The reforms also that the net capital gain from clarify jurisdiction over farm- the sale of a sow is $137. Under worker safety between FIFRA present law, the tax would be and OSHA to allow cooperative $2.52. Under the proposal, it enforcement and development would be $6.30, up 1500/0! of worker safety standards. Hog producers using the "one litter system" would be espe- cially hard hit. Canadian Pork - The Com- The proposal would also apply merce Department ruled that to farmland. Assume an acre of live hog and pork imports from farmland had a net selling price Canada are subsizided and im- in 1985 of $1,109 and that the posed temporary duties. The In- 1960 cost of the land was $194. ternational Trade Commission The long-term capital gain must determine if U.S. producers would be $915. Under present are being injured by the Cana- Michigan law, 40% of the gain dian subsidies. If ITC rules in would be taxable. The tax would Uelping reporters, editors and favor of U.S. producers, counter- . be $16.84 for the acre. Under broadcasters understand the vailing duties will be permanent. 1985 farm bill was the purpose the proposed tax increase, of a series of news media back- 100% of the gain would be tax- grounders and editorial confer- able and the tax would be ences sponsored by MFBthis spring. Above, MFBPublic Affairs $42.09 for the acre. Director AI Almy (left) explains The increased tax is really a some of FB's proposals to a re- tax on the inflation that oc- porter at the Bay City back- curred from 1960 to 1984. grounder May 20. Capital Gains Tax Legisla- All figures in these examples tion - FB has testified in op- are taken from information pro- Insurance coverage subject to position to two of the proposals vided by MSU. the 2% tax rate would include in Gov. Blanchard's tax package It is obvious that this 150% workers' compensation, life, (see June Rural Living). There tax increase on capital dains liability, autos, trucks and are at least 15 bills. would create a major tax bur- group accident and health. The One of the proposals con- den on farmers at a time when 3% tax rate would apply to fire tained in H.B. 4699 would raise many farmers are selling breed- and allied lines. In the case of the capital gains tax by 1500/0! ing livestock and farmland in "multiple peril" insurance such This would affect dairy pro- order to pay debts and remain as farmowners and homeown- ducers, hog producers and solvent. ers, 70% of the premium would others who raise livestock that It would. also put Michigan be subject to the 3% tax rate comes under the capital gains farmers at a competitive disad- and 30% to the 2% rate. tax provisions. It would also ap- vantage with farmers in other FB testimony pointed out ply to the sale of land. Presently states. that farmers and other self- 40% of such capital gains are employed people must pay the taxable. This would be raised to Premium Tax - This is the full cost of health care in- 100%. other major tax provision op- surance out of their taxable in- As an example, assume that posed by FB. H.B. 4702 would come while those employed by the sale of a raised breeding impose a 2% to 3% tax on do- others usually receive this pro- dairy animal results in a net mestic insurance premiums. ration as a non-taxable fringe long-term capital gain of $500. Such tax increases are always benefit. Under present law 40% or $200 passed on to the purchaser in FB opposes the premiums tax would be taxable. Under Michi- one form or another. Farmers because it would result in a gan's income tax of 4.6% will be affected more severely substantial tax increase to the (assuming it is rolled back or than most other purchasers of agricultural community. phased out) the tax would be insurance as they need a wide $9.20. Under the H.B. 4699 pro- variety of insurance protection. RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 7 Doney 8t Maple Syrup - will be very helpful to farm Farm Loan Program - H.B. H.B. 4470 (Rep. Randall) would markets throughout the state. 4690 (Rep. Dodak) increases the eliminate double licensing for It would not apply to potatoes loan program for qualifying Michigan producers of honey as they are graded under a spe- financially distressed farmers and maple syrup who have cial potato law. from the original $70 million up retail outlets, providing that the to $1.35 million. Both banks and processing facility is licensed. PCAsare administering the pro- Uniform Commercial Code gram. The program primarily - S.B. .362 (Sen. Nick Smith) permits loans at lower interest Fruit 8t Vegetable Grading would amend the present law to rates for certain production - H.B. 4748 (Rep. Gnodtke) allow a buyer of farm products costs including refinancing of would amend the present law to to purchase products "free of existing loans. allow "permissive grading" of any lien." In the past, a farmer, fruits and vegetables by using elevator or other buyer might alternate standards provided in unknowingly purchase a farm Wine Council - Sen. Gast the bill or present USDAstan- product that had a lien on it. In and the late Sen. Welborn dards. that case, the lien holder could worked on a program to pro- A "permissive grading sys- force the buyer to pay the lien, mote Michigan wine grapes and tem" must be approved by the in effect, paying twice for the wine for some time. In the last Department of Agriculture. Two product. legislative session there were alternate grades would be During the last legislative ses- constitutional problems due to allowed, either "Fresh Market sion, FB successfully supported a U.S. Supreme Court decision. #1" or "Fresh Market #2." legislation that partially solves Now, S.B. 112, which creates a The bill would also provide for this problem for grain. S.B. .362, seven member wine council in alternate standards for toma- if passed, would treat all farm the Department of Agriculture, toes. They could be either products the same as any other has passed the state Senate. "Michigan #1" or "Michigan product. #2." As in the past, lending organi- (continued on page 28) FB supports the legislation. It zations are strongly opposing the legislation. GIVE LEAKS THE OLD ONE-TWO! ONE! Spray away even TWO! True-Blue gaskets the toughest old in seconds with gaskets with Permatex Form-A- Permatex Gt;lsket Gasket Blue Remover! In 10 Silicone. Any size, minutes the flange any shape, any time. is clean without heavy scraping that can damage a flange surface. Gasket Remover List Sale #81110, 18 oz. spray $ 7.12 $ 5.13 QTY. ORDER NO. PRICE EACH TOTAL Silicone Form-A-Gasket #80627, 3 oz. tube 4.26 3.06 #81195, 11 oz. cartridge 10.76 7.74 Payment Sub Total #80023, 12 oz. tube 14.62 10.53 Check Visa 4% Tax ~--"PERMATEK' Make Check Out To and Mall To: Tho Chas. A. Strollngor Co. =:;: MasterCard Card Number Freight TOTAL $2.00 31855 Van Dyke, Warren, MI 48090 Exp. Date ~J.INDUSTRIAL 313-268-4100 Mon.-Fri. 8-5 Signature 8 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 Take Charge &. Manage Your Uealth Care By John VanderMolen in whom you have confidence. Think Twice About Once you and the doctor know Any Surgery With today's inflation, it's im- each other and you've been ex- Consider all your options portant to get the most you can amined and your records up- before you agree to surgery in a for every dollar you spend. dated, it may be possible to use non-emergency situation. Per- That's true for health care as the phone to ask about minor haps there is another method of well as other necessities. ailments. treatment that would work The time to think about your The best time to establish a equally well. health care expenses and how relationship with a doctor is A second opinion from to control them, though, is now - while you're healthy. another surgeon can help before you get sick. Many ex- assure you and your surgeon penses can be avoided. Inquire About Drugs what the best treatment for Cost cutting involves knowing and Their Costs your condition is. what your health care options Don't hesitate to shop for a are, playing an active part in pharmacy that provides ser- Check Your Bill determining the type of medical vices and prices best for you. You have a responsibility not care you receive, and practicing The drugs your doctor pre- to passively accept a hospital the most economic health care scribes may be available in dif- bill no matter who is paying. of all - taking care of yourself. ferent brands, qualities and Check all subtotals such as Here are some suggestions to prices. room and care fees and ser- help you get the best payment Because of strict government vices, time in operating room, possible and make the most ef- supervision and manufacturing, lab fees, drugs, EKG, and the ficient use of your health care generic drugs are safe and ef- like. Make sure all charges and dollars. fective. On some prescriptions dates are correct and are for you can save 50% of the cost. services rendered. Know Your Rights When you need a prescription, Contact the hospital and/ or Make sure you and your doc- check with your doctor about your health care provider if you tor see eye to eye on your rights specifying the generic rather discover any discrepancies. as a patient from the begin- than the trade name. ning. Communication is essen- Avoid Unnecessary tial. Ask questions and under- Don't Substitute the Dospitalizations Dospital Emergency Room stand your doctor's instruc- Unnecessary hospitalizations for a Doctor's Office tions. Ask about your choices contribute greatly to the high and be honest in expressing Today's hospital emergency cost of health care. Being con- your concerns and emotions. room has sophisticated lifesav- scious about when you enter ing equipment and highly the hospital can save money Ask Questions trained staff around the clock. and be more convenient for If your doctor suggests a test, If you have a medical emergen- you. prescribes a drug, or recom- cy, don't hesitate to use it. Non-emergency weekend ad- mends surgery, ask why. It's But misuse of the emergency missions are rarely necessary. your body and you have a right, room is one of the leading Hospitals do not operate at full as well as a responsibility, to causes of today's high health service on Saturdays and Sun- know what the doctor thinks is care costs. Studies show that days, so it-is to your advantage wrong and how he or she plans four out of five emergency room to check in during the week to treat you. patients aren't experiencing when all the services are Be sure your questions are true emergencies. available. answered to your satisfaction When your problem can be before agreeing to any treat- handled in the doctor's office or Use Dealth Care ment. on an out-patient basis, you'll Services Wisely save dollars by using that Never hesitate to get care Make Sure You Dave method instead of the emergen- the Right Doctor when you need it, but unneces- cy room. Remember, emergency sary care or services given in Don't wait for an emergency room benefits are only covered the wrong setting are avoidable to select a doctor. While you are if the visit is for a life threaten- costs. Some people think in- in good health, find a physician ing medical condition or for an surance covered visits to a accidental injury that needs im- mediate care. (continued on page 28) l-----------~---------------------9~ RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 America Bt Me Essays Reflect Proud Ueritage, Promise for America's Future By Connie Turbin If you're concerned about the Senate by Sen. William Seder- next generation, you need only burg, meetings in the governor's read some of the pages of near- office and with Secretary of ly 10,000 essays written by State Richard Austin, and an Michigan eighth grade students awards banquet at the Lansing in over 650 schools for the Sheraton Inn. 1984-85 America & Me Essay The first place essay, written this great nation. But, )1 Contest to be assured that the by Jeremy Evans of Traverse along with the privilege of V' future is in good hands. City, expressed a hope for being a citizen of this coun- The 13 and 14 year olds show America firmly rooted in a try, I was also given the obli- a surprising awareness of the heritage of citizenship and gation to defend its freedom challenges and problems in our patriotism handed down to him and to help keep this nation world and offer many sugges- by his great grandfather, who great," Tony wrote. tions and solutions in their was a Lebanese immigrant. Like A heritage shadowed by slav- essays written with the theme, Jeremy, other students reflect- ery and prejudice has instilled "My Hope for America - and ed on a diverse heritage of America & Me award winner How I Can Help Achieve It." races and cultures to express Alonzo Higgins of Bloomfield The youthful authors of the their hope for America. Hills with the incentive to 10 essays selected as winners In his essay, Tony Fantin of achieve the hope of equality were recently honored in Lan- North Branch recalled Flag Day and justice for every ethnic sing by the contest sponsor, on June 14, 1978 when he group. Farm Bureau Insurance Group, stood with his adoptive parents In his essay, Keith Kline of and state government officials. to become a naturalized citizen Clare called the barriers of prej- The recognition and award ac- of the United States. "I remem- udice, ethnocentrism and ig- tivities included a tour of the ber the miniature flags that norance "brick walls" to be Michigan Capitol building, spe- were given to the new citizens demolished. "I hope to see cial recognition in the state and the happiness and pride we America change and expand in all felt in becoming citizens of 10 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 the area of equality," Keith wrote. "In order to change we America & Me must solve problems and in order to expand we must break Essay Contest Winners barriers .... They block our vision, but they can be Jeremy Evans, Pathfinder School, Traverse City destroyed." Gabrielle Durocher, Alma Middle School, Alma The vision of America as a Tony Fantin, Ruth Fox Junior High School, North Branch land of equality and freedom Mike Kim, Waverly West Junior High School, Lansing burns brightly for Eli Gergics of Eli Gergics, St. Barnabas School, East Detroit East Detroit. "If it wasn't for Gigi Laurent,. Alex Manoogian School, Southfield this country, my father would Keith Kline, Clare Middle School, Clare probably be in a prison in Julie Bracy, White Junior High School, Lapeer Siberia. You see, he fought in Alonzo Higgins, Cranbrook Middle School, Bloomfield Hills the Hungarian Revolution of Sharon Milchus, Bryant Junior High School, Dearborn 1956," wrote Eli. "If you read the inscription on the Statue of Liberty, it says, 'Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, the tempest tossed, to me. I lift my lamp beside the golden door.' This passage should never be for- saken because it's what America stands for .... My hope for America is that it will re- main an example to the free My Uope for America - And Uow I Can Uelp Achieve It world and (that) all nations may turn to us for help." My great grandpa died this year at the age of 103. He came to Concern for the homeless and America from Lebanon as a young man. He was an American in poor of our nation, prompted every sense of the word. He became a small part of America's Julie Bracy of Lapeer to write, history. He worked for Henry Ford teaching immigrants to speak, "Since I was a small child, I write and read English. Later he taught citizenship classes so have hoped to go to some poor these men and women could achieve their dream of becoming town halfway around the world citizens of our wonderful country. This teaching gift of his he and become a teacher and mis- shared and thus put a small stone into the foundation of this sionary. I dreamed of taking land. toys that the children have never seen before and handing He taught me by his example to be patri- them out as presents. I hope to otic. He taught me to care about America and give them food and a new hope love her people. in their life. Now, I think about Grandpa had many hardships. Some people the needy in the United States." were prejudiced against him because he was Recognizing that they have foreign. He lived in the inner city and was individual roles to fill in their mugged and beaten many times. He had no future world, the students malice toward his attackers. He truly stressed the responsibilities of loved all people and tried to befriend and help American citizenship and world everyone. He lived by his motto, "I know citizenship. something good about you." JEREMY EVArtS "We can show the world that the differences among Ameri- We never know what our small acts of kindness can mean to cans are our strengths not our someone else. We never know when one small deed will rebound weaknesses," wrote Sharon and grow in others. If everyone would acquire this attitude, we Milchus of Dearborn. "1 can help would have peace in our country and on earth. to set an example. I can start This peace is my hope for America. I am going to try to live (continued on page 28) like Grandpa and make him proud of me. This will help achieve that hope. RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 11 Great American Quilt Contest Salutes Nation's Ueritage An opportunity to win one of According to Dr. Robert trip for two to New York to at- 52 prize packages, including Bishop, director of the Museum tend the festival. The second the $20,000 grand prize, is of American Folk Art and a place grand prize winner will available for quilters entering recognized authority on Ameri- receive a $7,500 cash purchase the Great American Quilt Con- can textiles, the contest is an award. test. The contest is expected to opportunity for "quilters across The two grand prize winning draw thousands of entries from the land to share their talents, quilts will become the original across the country crafted to creativity and spirit with gener- pieces in the "Scotchgard Col- the theme, "Liberty, freedom ations to come." lection of Contemporary Quilts" and the heritage of America" in "Quilts are more than just at the Museum of American honor of the Statue of Liberty bedcoverings," Bishop said. Folk Art. It will be the first col- Centennial. "They are priceless documents lection of its kind in the coun- Presented by 3M, manufac- of America's heritage, lovingly try. turer of Scotchgard brand prod- and thoughtfully created." For complete contest rules ucts, the quilt contest is a The 52 winning entries will be and entry information, write: Museum of American Folk Art showcased at the Great Ameri- Great American Quilt Contest, event. Judges will select 52 win- can Quilt Festival to be held in Suite 1500, One East Wacker ners: one from each state, the New York City April 24-27, 1986 Drive, Chicago, III. 60601; or District of Columbia and U.S. as part of the Statue of Liberty call toll free, 1-800-227-3800, possessions, territories and Centennial celebration, and be- ext. 1779. foreign military bases. come a part of an international "One of the greatest contribu- touring exhibition sponsored by Protect Your Valuable Quilt tions we can make to future the museum. All across the United States, generations of Americans is the In addition to the unveiling of quilts are being crafted by hob- preservation of our heritage," the 52 winning quilts, the festi- byists who are interested in said Don Pirner of the 3M val will include quilting bees creating a uniquely American Household Products Division. and workshops, demonstra- art form while carrying on the "That's why we're sponsoring tions, a wearable art fashion traditions of America's heritage. the Great American Quilt Con- show sponsored by Fairfield Making a quilt is no small test. It links past, present and Processing, exhibitions of quilts task, so whether a quilt is being future in a uniquely American from the museum's permanent made to pass on to future gen- art form while saluting the collection and antique quilt erations or to sell, it deserves ideals on which our nation was dealer displays. founded." The grand prize winner in the (continued on page 29) contest will receive $20,000 cash and an all-expense paid 12 RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 FRONT 8/. CENTER FB members can still take advantage of the 40010 savings on the purchase of farm implement tools during the 1985 Safemark Summer Steel Sale. Members have until the July 9 order deadline to purchase steel through vendors in participating county FBs. A listing of products and dealers appears on pages .30 and .31 of the June issue of Rural Living maga- zine. For more information about the member-only group purchasing program call MFB Group Purchasing at 517-.32.3-7000, ext. 527. The MFBWomen's Committee will be sponsoring two Ag in the Classroom work- shops in September. County volunteers will demonstrate presentations they have used in classrooms and a portion of the day-long workshops will include a "how to" session, which will explain the methods for contacting schools, preparing for the presentations and working with students. The workshops are scheduled for Sept. 24 at the Lansing Sheraton Inn and Sept. 25 at the Chalet Center in Gaylord and are tentatively set to run from 9:.30 a.m. to .3:.30p.m. The cost of the workshops has not yet been set, but will include lunch and information materials. Details on the workshops will be in the August issue of Rural Living magazine. The Ag in the Classroom workshops will replace the FB Women's annual leadership training con- ference which will be combined with the Young Farmer leader conference next March. A day-long agricultural awareness program for clergy and laity, sponsored by several Michigan agricult,ural and church organizations, will be held on July 31 in Genesee County. Under the title of "Family Farming Today," sponsoring organizations will host a tour of a dairy farm and a hog operation and provide a forum for the discussion of issues affecting the family farm. Keynote address will be presented by Dr. James Anderson, dean of the MSUCollege of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Reservations are requested by July 26, and require a $5 registration fee which includes lunch. Checks should be made payable to the Michigan Council of Churches. Send reservations to Johanna Balzer, .3450 Clark Road, Bath, Mich. 48808. For more information call 517-484-.327.3or 517-484-7144. Membership workers can still offer FB membership benefits to new members for $22.50 during July and August. Persons who join MFB during the prorated period will have full membership benefits through Dee. .31, 1985. If your county FB has added a special member assessment to the dues, contact your county secretary for specific information. Your Farm Bureau organization is only as effective as you make it. One of the key steps in having an effective organization which addresses the political and economic issues of concern to farmers is the annual grassroots policy-setting procedure. A list of the 1985 county FB annual meeting dates is on page 15. Plan now to make your voice heard in FB's policy development process by marking your calendar and attending your county annual meeting. Also make plans to attend the statewide policy development conference Aug. 20 at Long's Con- vention Center in Lansing. Watch for more information. Five FB members will be representing their respective commodities on two state committees. Peter C. Morrison Jr. of Williamsburg and Kenneth E. Bull of Bailey have been reappointed to the Michigan Red Tart Cherry Advisory Board by Gov. Blanchard. Both reap- pointments are for terms expiring Sept. 5, 1987. Appointed to the Michigan Asparagus Com- mittee by Gov. Blanchard were Allyn J. Anthony of Hartford, Rodney D. Winkel of Watervliet and Evelyn Marie Kokx of Hart, for terms expiring Nov. 1.3, 1987. All appointments are subject to Senate confirmation. The Alumni Association of the MSUCollege of Agriculture and Natural Resources will hold its first annual meeting Wednesday, July 24 beginning at 5 p.m. in Tent C on the Ag Expo grounds. New members to the board of directors will be elected and there will be a brief address by new MSUPresident John DiBiaggio. A complimentary pork barbecue buffet will follow the meeting. RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 1.3 RURAL EXCHANGE Duron Young Farmers Sponsor Ag Accident Seminar The Huron County Farm day-long program was to better Bureau Young Farmer Commit- acquaint emergency response tee, in cooperation with the personnel in handling ag ac- county's emergency services, cidents .. recently sponsored an ag res- Over 120 people representing cue seminar. The purpose of the police, fire, ambulance and hospital personnel and local farmers attended. During the morning session participants were trained in the different types of farm acci- dents and the correct way to respond. The afternoon session included observing a full line of farm equipment with Young After a demonstration on the use of air bags at an Ag Accident Farmers pointing out the haz- Rescue Seminar, the Montcalm ards and the safety features of County Farm Bureau board de- the various pieces. cided to make a contribution It is hoped that such training toward more effective rescues. The board presented a set of air of emergency personnel can bags to the county's Emergency help reduce the seriousness of Medical Services in June. injuries sustained when an acci- During Huron County's recent Ag dent does occur. Accident Rescue Seminar, Young Farmer Curtis Krohn of Elkton Mildred Oeschger, Bay Port demonstrated the safe operation Huron County RURAL RASCALS of a power take-off shaft on a farm tractor. Legislators 'Flock' to Farm Tour in Frankenmuth When the MFB Women's Com- While I was in Washington, mittee sponsored an Agricul- D.C., for the MFB legislative ture Understanding Day break- seminar, I asked U.S. Rep. Bob fast in Lansing with state Traxler to join us if he hap- legislators as our guests, Rep. pened to be in the area. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick from The closer it got to the day of Detroit was seated with me. the visit, the more calls we got During our conversation we asking if others could join us. talked about her committee The final guest list included assignments. Rep. Kilpatrick and her ad- When I learned that she ministrative assistant, Rep. serves on the agriculture ap- Dodak, U.S. Rep. Traxler and his propriations subcommittee but administrative assistant, Sen. does not have any farmers in Jerome Hart and his assistant, her constituency, I invited her Rep. Justine Barns and her hus- to our farm near Frankenmuth band, Rep. Dick Allen, Rep. Sid Getting everyone together for a in Saginaw County. She ac- Ouwinga, Rep. Keith Muxlow family portrait is no easy task. When the family includes seven cepted my invitation for May and Dr. Paul Kindinger, director young puppies, it's even harder. 10. of the Michigan Department of Tina and Teresa McKellar try to Rep. Lewis Dodak, who was Agriculture. gather the pups for a picture. The group toured the Zehnder, Tina, Teresa and their sister also at the breakfast, asked if Valerie (not pictured) are actual- he could also come to our farm. Dodak and Krafft farms, the ly city kids who would love to be Of course the answer was yes. A Star of the West Milling Com- "rural rascals." They were week later he called and asked pany and also enjoyed lunch at visiting the Bay County farm of the Bavarian Inn. their aunt and uncle, Charlene if I would object to having more and Lyle LeCronier. legislators visit. Certainly no Eleanor /{rafft, Frankenmuth objections. Saginaw County 14 RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 Victory Party But Not for Montcalm Countyl Mark Your Calendarl Although Montcalm County feel it was worth our effort In many counties across the had a good gain and lost the because all the workers really state Farm Bureau's grass roots membership contest by just got out and worked. Each year policy development process is three members to Isabella we keep saying, "Next time, you already in motion for this fall's County Farm Bureau, we still just wait and see." resolution sessions. Policy had to eat bean soup at the Despite losing again and Development Committees are joint Victory Party while they watching "them" eat steak, we reviewing proposed policies ate steak. had a good time exchanging submitted by other FB commit- With Sally Thomsen as chair- ideas, prizes, gifts and gags at tees, members and Community person, we worked right down the victory party. Action Groups. to the wire trying to win! Many county Farm Bureaus Ruby Jeppesen, Stanton Although this was the tJ:lird have also set the date of their Montcalm County time Isabella has beaten us, we 1985 county annual meeting. Following is a list of those that have. Mark your calendar today and set that evening aside to FB Members Invited to Benzie's Cherry Field Day help determine the future of If you've ever wanted to cherry desserts and other your agricultural industry. watch cherries being mechani- cherry recipes made by Benzie cally harvested or just want to County farm women. Recipes Alpena - Oct. 10 get away to enjoy a summer and information will also be Antrim - Oct. 9 day in beautiful Benzie County available. Arenac - Oct. 14 (the Frankfort/ Elberta and Bay - Aug. 25 For more information or to Crystal Lake area), then Benzie Benzie - Oct. 7 make reservations for a large County Farm Bureau's 16th an- Berrien - Nov. 1 group, contact me at 616- Branch - Sept. 16 nual Cherry Field Day is for you! 352-4940 or Carolyn Waterson Charlevoix - Oct. 2 This year the event will be at 616-882-9802. Clare - Oct. 24 held on Wednesday, July 24 Bonnie Putney, Arcadia Clinton - Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Families Benzie County Eaton - Oct. 5 and groups should come to the Emmet - Oct. 14 Blaine Christian Church (at the Genesee - Oct. 8 corner of Joyfield and Putney roads). To get to the church FARMETTE Gladwin - Oct. 1 Gratiot - Sept. 6 from the U.S. 31/M-115junc- By Andrea Hofmeister Hillsdale - Sept. 11 tion in Benzonia, go five miles Tuscola County Huron - Sept. 26 south on U.S. 31 to Joyfield Ingham - Oct. 5 Road; turn right (west) and go Isabella - Oct. 16 three miles. To get to the Jackson - Sept. 26 church from Frankfort, go Kalamazoo - Oct. 8 seven miles south on M-22 to Kalkaska - Sept. 6 Joyfield Road; turn left (east) Kent - Sept. 24 and go three miles. -Lenawee - Sept. 19 From there you will be led by Livingston - Sept. 26 a tour guide to the orchards to Mecosta - Oct. 7 watch mechanical harvesting of Midland - Oct. 1 tart cherries. You will visit one Missaukee - Oct. 1 of the two processing plants in Newaygo - Oct. 10 the county where your tour Northwest Mich. - Oct. 9 guide will answer any questions Ogemaw - Oct. 24 you may have about cherry Osceola - Oct. 15 processing and products. Last Ottawa - Oct. 10 but not least, you'll return to "/ realize your July rain Saginaw - Oct. 3 the church for a taste of special dance always moves rain in St. Joseph - Oct. 26 Shiawassee - Oct. 12 our direction, mom. The prob- Washtenaw - Sept. 27 lem is, it doesn't get here' un- Wexford - Oct. 8 til September!" RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 15 MICHIGAN'S LARGEST AGRICULTURAL ew states have a brighter potential future in agriculture than does Michigan. It's growers produce more than 50 cash crops - EQUIPMENT SHOW valued in excess of $18 billion - second only to California in diversity. There are a variety of reasons for this. Michigan has a water base that far exceeds most others (which will become critical in the next 20 years). Michigan has urban market proximity that rivals most other states; in many cases, Michigan agriculture is supplying but , fraction of the commodity consumed in the state. This translates to potential business. For example. Swine producers supply one third of the pork consumed in the state and only about one- , third of the hogs processed in the state. When pro- ducers meet that demand, it will mean an additional $800 million to the industry annually. Similarly, residents consume one-third more beef, about two-thirds more turkey and roughly one-thin: more eggs than are produced in Michigan. Conser- eld on the huge campus of Michigan State University vatively, this represents an additional $500 million - land grant University and world center of agricul- which could be added to the agricultural industry tural research - AG EXPO boasts a knowledgeable, each year. efficient staff and excellent facilities on a nearly 40-acre site. Considering the spin -off effect this could have for Michigan's com, small grain and forage production, Big enough to be impressive, small enough to permit good in- production value of about $844 million each year, formation trade among exhibitors, MSU scientists and over the future looks even more promising. 50,000 members of the midwestern agricultural community. That's what earned us acceptance to the Nonh American Farm This does not consider the potential for new Show Council - a mark of excellence! agricultural industries in Michigan: soybean processJ ing (soys are a $185 million crop); potato processing • July 23, 24, 25, 1985 (potato production is valued at $56 million); hard • 9 am - 5 pm Tues. &> Wed.; 9 am - 4 pm Thurs. cheese processing (milk production is valued at • Free paved parking; easily accessible free transponation: $658 million); or expansion of Michigan fruit and horse and tractor drawn shuttles through the main exhibition vegetable processing (farm gate value roughly $273 site, free continuous bus service to the research and field million annually). demonstration sites. Shaded rest areas, numerous food ser- Michigan producers are aware of these possibilities vice and refreshment facilities. and are keenly interested in keeping pace with the • Commercial exhibits: nearly 400 exhibitors from all over the new technology. That's one of the main reasons U. S. and Canada they like AG EXPO - it enables the gathering of in- • Educational exhibits: crop research plots, beekeeping and in- formation in a conducive atmosphere. Producers sect control, farm pond management, animal health have given us three main reasons they attend diagnosis, farm safety and security and more. AG EXPO: • Field demonstrations: emphasis on land improvement, in- "keep up with new equipment technology" cluding tile drainage installation, waterway construction, land shaping and more. "evaluate and compare (new) equipment" AG EXPO '85 is sponsored by Michigan State University's "update themselves on the latest farming Depanment of Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Experi- techniques" ment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service. Terrain, transponation, water resources, markets and technical capacity to respond to a potential are the hallmarks of Michigan agriculture. Our tracks are leading to a lucrative potential: Michigan agriculture NOUH AM£IUCAN fARM SHOW means business! FB Women Launch Iproject 51,000' to Gain Support for National Legislation MFBWomen put the RFD recalls Faye Adam, MFBWomen's count on four letters from some stamp on their first successful Committee chairperson. "The families because the husband effort in a new American Farm chairperson from each state wanted to write the letters, too. Bureau women's program called spontaneously volunteered That's the kind of spontaneous "Project 51,000" last month 'bids' on the number of letters involvement this project has when they implemented a grass- her state could deliver to sup- had all along." roots letter writing campaign to port 'Project 51,000: I commit- However, there was a signifi- Michigan's U.S. senators, Carl ted 2,000 letters from Michi- cant difference in focus for the Levin and Don Riegle. The let- gan:' Michigan project, she says. ters requested that the senators Adam confesses that initially "Michigan was unique because co-sponsor the Farm Bureau she was a little overwhelmed by we already had 50% of our farm farm bill proposal, S. 908. And the number. "Two thousand let- bill co-sponsors in the U.S. while the women aren't taking ters sounds like a lot - and it House of Representatives, so we full credit for Sen. Riegle's deci- is - but if you break it down, specifically requested that 'Proj- sion to co-sponsor the FB farm we really just needed 15 people. ect 51,000' participants in bill, they're hoping that the let- in each county Farm Bureau Michigan write to our U.S. sena- ters played a part in that deci- who would be willing to write a tors. For Michigan, the letter sion. letter to each of their U.S. writing campaign was an extra The letters, with their rural senators to accomplish the effort to get a Michigan co- Michigan postmarks, were part goal:' sponsor for Farm Bureau's farm of a national letter writing cam- Positive thinking and sharing bill in the U.S. Senate." paign that was planned and the job through the MFBcom- But the FB farm bill won't be developed at a conference of mittee structure made the dif- the only issue that triggers ac- state FB Women's chairpersons ference. "Each member of the tion in the project. The AFBF in Washington, D.C., this April. state Women's Committee made Women, in cooperation with the The program name reflects the contacts with the Farm Bureau AFBF national affairs office in over 51,000 letters committed women's chairpersons in her Washington, D.C., is also moni- by FB Women's chairpersons to district to explain the project toring tax and spending legisla- the letter writing campaign. and offer assistance," Adam tion in the Congress. FB Women "It was a very exciting thing says. "I made some personal in Michigan are likely to be as it developed in the meeting," contacts with the committee called on again to put the pro- chairpersons in several coun- ject into action. According to ties. They were really fired up to Adam, "Project 51,000" issues do this project. They took it to will be identified by a special their county board and that stamp on selected "Front brought more letters. Some Burner Issue" letters received even told me that we could by women's chairpersons. The project has been made part of the 1985-86 MFB Women's program of work that goes into effect next month. "There was just no question that this was a top priority proj- ect for Michigan Farm Bureau Women," Adam says. "This proj- e~t fits perfectly with the goals we have set for Farm Bureau Women to become actively in- volved in the total organization and to be instrumental in policy execution activities." 18 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 Spirit of Cooperation Blooming in Wayne County Eastern Farmers' Market on the By Cathy J. IHrvan Sun?~y following Mother's Day. ExhIbItors were limited to The spirit of cooperation is flower growers. blooming in Wayne County, Juchartz said the farmers from the Eastern Farmers' Mar- were told not to expect great ket in Detroit where flower sales the first year but to think growers work together to pre- of it as gaining exposure for the sent Flower Days on two Sun- industry. "In the promotions we days in May and June to work- stressed the family aspect of ing on local agricultural issues Flower Day - bring the kids, through the county Farm grandma, grandpa, the camera. Bureau. "The city of Detroit gave us Wayne County and southeast- one police officer to direct traf- ern Michigan boast a strong fic but over 20,000 people bedding plant industry, but un- came," he said. "It was the big- til growers got together to pro- gest traffic jam in the city's mote their flowery produce at history. Obviously we didn't sell the Eastern Farmers' Market, out that first year but that most Detroiters didn't realize wasn't the point. During suc- that a major portion of the na- ceeding years this became the tion's bedding plants were be- thing to do. We kept getting ing grown just beyond their city bigger - more farmers exhibit- limits. ing and more people buying." Flower Day was started in In 1985, the 19th year of 1966 by the Metropolitan De- Flower Day, Juchartz said that troit Flower Growers' Associa- over 100,000 people attended tion, which has members and bought $2 million worth of throughout southeast Michigan. plants. "It was wall to wall peo- A market survey by the MSU ple," he said. "But every single Cooperative Extension Service person had money in their had revealed that although pocket and they wanted to southeastern Michigan had the spend It. Everybody sold out. largest production of bedding We had growers who brought plants in the country, two-thirds four loads in the morning and TOP: Second generation flower of the crop was being shipped then went back and brought grower John Bokon shows off both out of state and more flowers his new bride, Flo, and his top three more during the day. It were being sold in Flint than in quality bedding plants at Flower was fantastic!" Day, May 19 at the Eastern Farmers' Detroit. Market in Detroit. "We decided to do something Growers Working to CENTER:Wayne County FB President to let people know that there Extend Flower Season Waller Rochowiak restocks during was farm fresh produce close to Flower Day. In addition to their Juchartz said that in order to home," said Don Juchartz, who greenhouses and retail markets, he increase profits, the flower and his wife, Joyce, raise cash crops. was with MSUExtension then growers are trying to extend BOTTOM:Flower Day is promoted as and is now executive director of their marketing season. "In a family activity - bring the kids, the flower growers' association. grandma and grandpa, and your Arrangements were made with camera. the city of Detroit to open the RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 19 Michigan it has been traditional that when Decoration Day comes that's the end of the bedding plant season," he said. "What we're trying to do is to get it in people's minds that June and July are absolutely phenomenal months for plant- ing flowers." Toward that end a second Flower Day was held in 1982. "It was orginally established to help farmers clear out their in- ventory," Juchartz said. "But now the objective has changed. We've got people growing for that day and the cash flow is spread over a longer period of time." Over 40,000 people at- tended the Flower Day on the second Sunday in June last year and spent $600,000. Juchartz attributes the achievements of the flower During the six-week marketing season John Bokon and other flower growers to their attitude. The growers have hectic schedules. "I hit the road by 3 a.m. and am down at the Eastern Market by 4 a.m. By 8 a.m. I'm home again loading trucks," growers compete with each he said. "The friday before Mother's Day is our busiest time. We got other on a daily basis at the home from market at 8 a.m. and loaded trucks until 8 p.m. We probably Eastern Market but work to- moved 5% of the total crop that day." gether for the industry. "There is no place else in the United States that has the qual- "I have to direct credit for our Media Coverage Draws ity of bedding plants like south- recent accomplishments to our Attention to Drainage Issue eastern Michigan," he said. excellent, young board," said Tom Gill, another Wayne "And the only reason for that is Walter Rochowiak, Wayne Coun- County FB board member, who because they do cooperate. ty Farm Bureau president. is active in the area Soil Conser- What one grower gets and does "They are an ambitious group. vation District, urged county well he tells the others about. If They want to learn, and they president Rochowiak to use somebody puts in a new ma- believe in what Farm Bureau is some of FB's "political pull" to chine, they're all over there offering them. We have found set up a countywide meeting on looking at it. Experienced that if we all work together as a agricultural drainage problems. growers help new growers get board, it is very easy to get "The Soil Conservation started." projects done." District had been working for One of their first project suc- two years to try and set up a Cooperative Spirit Key cesses this year was the mem- meeting, but it just never to County f'B Successes bership campaign. During the seemed to happen, so Farm A new variety of leadership in blitz they met as a group for Bureau agreed to help," Wayne County is nurturing a breakfast, then paired up in Rochowiak said. "We wanted to cooperative spirit in the county teams to go out and write new have all the county farmers at Farm Bureau, too. FB leaders and renewal memberships. Ac- the district's annual meeting credit this renewed cooperation cording to membership chair- because we thought we were go- for their many successes, in- person John Bokon, "selling" ing to have a big discussion cluding making membership the organization isn't difficult if with the drain commissioner." goal early and a getting com- you believe in it. While the meeting was in the mitment from the county gov- "I like to feel I have some planning stage, Rochowiak went ernment to do something about kind of input into the laws that to Lansing for an FB conference the agricultural drainage prob- affect me," he said. "I feel Farm and talked with MFB staff about lem. Bureau has political pull and by the issue and gaining media participating in the policy coverage for the drainage development process, I at least meeting. get my two cents heard." (continued on page 29) 20 RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 TV Show Provides Exciting Challenges for Co-Uosts By Marcia Dltchle "I was scared. I wasn't just nervous, I was scared!" ex- claimed Martha ThuemmeL a Huron County dairy farmer, in recalling the first show she taped for the "Farm and Garden" television program nearly three years ago. "Farm and Garden" is a coop- erative effort among the Bay, Gratiot, Huron, Midland, Sagi- naw, Sanilac and Tuscola Coun- ty Farm Bureaus and WNEM-TV, Channel 5 in Saginaw. The weekly show has been broad- cast as a public service pro- gram since October 1982 and Martha has served as co-host since its inception. Now she has decided to step aside in order to allow other because I would not have felt muffin and slapped it back on Farm Bureau members in the comfortable," she said. the plate and the station ran seven-county area to experience Not only has the show provid- the show. They did promise me the same leadership opportuni- ed Martha with leadership op- in the beginning, however, that ty she has had. portunities, it has also provided if I fell off my chair, they would Following the taping of her her with learning experiences. start again!" last show on June 4, Martha "As I did more shows, I be- With the obvious success of reminisced about her exper- came more interested in the the show and Martha's contin- iences. people I was interviewing and I ued enthusiasm for it, why is 'Tve worked on various Farm wanted to learn more about the she leaving? Bureau public relations func- different types of agriculture," "I believe this show is one of tions such as mall displays and Martha said. "I've continually the most important Farm Bu- the state fair booth and I felt tried to learn more, not only reau projects for leadership they were an effective and im- through the interviews, but by development and it has helped portant way to share agricul- reading articles in magazines me tremendously. Because of ture's story with consumers," and newspapers on the various that, I want to see other people Martha said. "I saw the 'Farm types of agriculture." have the same opportunity that and Garden' show as an exten- Taping a weekly show has not I have had." sion of that type of activity and been without its humorous Sue Chaffin of Gratiot County working with television was a moments, according to Martha .. has agreed to co-host through very exciting idea to me. "When we do a show, we tape the summer. "Even though I was very ner- from beginning to end without The other co-host, dairy and vous prior to taping the first stopping. During the taping of beef cattle farmer Dean Smith, show, I knew I could do it be- one show in the studio's also from Huron County, has cause I was working with Farm kitchen, a muffin fell on the only been on the show since Bureau people and I was sure floor and the cameras kept roIl- January. He credits Martha with they would be very honest with ing," she said. "Pretty soon a helping him through those first me in making suggestion~ for cameraman's hand emerged challenging months. improvement. There are other from no where, picked up the (continued on next page) organizations where I might not have taken that big of a step RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 21 ,. Farm 8t Garden (continued from previous page) "Your first show is always your most memorable," Dean helped me through a lot of it ... making suggestions for improvement and helping me with the teleprompter for the ltlJJ said. "You are always nervous and a little on edge. Martha has news." Like his predecessors, Dean has set some personal goals for STEP himself to continually improve the show. BACKWARDS ... "Mike Rogers, who was the to quality and price of an first co-host, Martha, and Skip earl ier era. MACMA picks Beyersdorf, who succeeded Mike, set the groundwork for out the best of the harvest the show. My goal is to continue through the summer. They to build upon what they've already have the best started," Dean said. "I would most tender fresh frozen certainly. like to see the show asparagus tucked away for have more viewers, but that is hard to dictate." the summer frozen sale. "I would like to be able to Look for sale information relate to the urban audience from your county in July, and help them to understand what farmers are really like. I and order old-fashioned am looking forward to the op- qual ity. portunities; it's been a good "Farm and Garden" co-host Mar- challenge for me thus far. It's a Summer Frozen Sale order tha Thuemmel was presented great learning opportunity for deadline is Wednesday, with a farewell cake "for a job anyone who is interested in do- well done" following the taping August 7. of her last show. ing something like this," he said. PH Radio Program Celebrates Silver Anniversary "AFBF has offered a platform ebrated its silver anniversary on niversary celebration. Stations for a prosperous agriculture ... June 4. honored included WABJ-Adrian, which probably will have. little Communicating with the gen- WFYC-Alma, WATZ-Alpena, political appeal, but its adop- eral public about agriculture WHFB-Benton Harbor, WDOW- tion will have more effect on was a priority in 1960 for the Dowagiac, WCSR-Hillsdale, farm prosperity than all the Michigan Farm Bureau, just as WION-Ionia, WMPC-Lapeer, political platforms .... " it is now, Sayre said. WKLA-Ludington and WHAK- This is not a statement con- In order to address that prior- Rogers City. Today, "Accent cerning the 1985 Farm Bill, but ity, a IS-minute public service Agriculture" is aired on nearly rather a plan unveiled by Farm program for radio stations was 40 Michigan radio stations and Bureau in June 1960. developed. Making its debut 25 WOWO-Ft.Wayne, Ind. "The old expression that the years ago as "Farm Bureau at While the issues haven't more things change, the less Work," the popularity of the changed much since 1960, pro- the change is so true because show with radio stations and duction procedures and atti- many of the issues we were their audiences steadily grew tudes toward sharing the organ- talking about in 1960 are still and within three years the show ization's policies with the public issues today," said Jim Sayre., was carried on 50 stations via radio have. MFB broadcast District 3 director on the MFB across the state. The name of facilities have grown from board of directors who was the program was later changed recording the weekly show in a president of the Wayne County to "Accent Agriculture." make-shift home studio with Farm Bureau in 1960. Paying tribute to 10 "pioneer" blankets draped over lamps and Those comments set the radio stations which carried the chairs, to a closet in the presi- stage for a special 25th anniver- Farm Bureau program in 1960 dent's office, to an open office sary celebration of Michigan and still air it today was the area, to a sound-proof, profes- Farm Bureau's "Accent Agricul- major purpose of the silver an- sional recording studio. ture" radio program, which cel- 22 RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 Visit the Farm Bureau I Agra Land Tent at Ag Expo '85 By Donna Wilber surveying techniques and sub- legislative action, information irrigation. MSU'sag engineering and education, leadership "Informed public choice" will department is cooperating with development and community be a key to restoring prosperity the Michigan Land Improve- service. to Michigan agriculture, accord- ment Contractors Association Safemark, AgriCom and High ing to MSUagricultural econo- and the Soil Conservation Ser- Grade Nut and Bolt Co. will pro- mist Jack McEowen, and that's vice in the field demonstration mote their member only pro- what Ag Expo '85 is all about. activities, which run each day grams, and Farmers Petroleum Scheduled for July 23-25 on from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Co-op and Agra Land will plug the MSUcampus, Ag Expo will In a centrally-located 60'x90' their various products and ser- offer an expected 50,000 visi- tent, Michigan Farm Bureau and vices. Farm Bureau Insurance tors opportunities to make "in- its affiliated companies and . Group personnel will be on the formed choices" on new farm Agra Land will also aim toward scene to discuss insurance equipment and advanced tech- helping farmers make "in- problems and explain how to nology. While some familiar formed choices." "make your future a little more companies who were victims of Under the banner, "Together predictable," and MACMAwill a depressed farm economy will We Win - Farm Bureau," MFB spotlight its direct marketing be missing from this year's list personnel will tout the organi- program. of exhibitors, new ones have zation's many member benefits Ag Expo visitors who put the emerged to fill the nearly 400 including economic services, (continued on page .30) exhibit spaces on the 35-acre site. McEowen believes that "pros- perity to agriculture will come only if all segments of the in- dustry prosper," and agribusi- MULTI-ANGLE ness exhibitors from 16 states and Canada see the popular Ag RADIAL Expo as a prime opportunity to reach producers. They and Ag REAR TRACTOR TIRE Expo sponsors are confident WITH ARAMID that a majority of Michigan's producers will survive the cur- -Belts of Aramid rent economic crunch and will Pound for pound stronger than begin buying again. steel with high resistance to Visiting Ag Expo this year will puncture. be "like looking in a crystal ball to see where agriculture is go- - Nylon Cord Body Plies ing," "McEowensaid. More for- For strength, flexibility with eign farm equipment, biotech- long-life durability. nology, and a cost-cutter trend -Proven Lug and Tread toward equipment dealers dis- Design playing their wares and taking For tillage time and labor orders rather than keeping an savings of 10% or more. * inventory will be some of the things Ag Expo visitors will see -Smooth, Easy Ride in that crystal ball, he said. Traction with less soil compaction. The emphasis on this year's Ag Expo field demonstrations Contact your county Farm Bureau for the will be on land improvement practices including the latest location of a Safemark dealer near you, or concepts in drainage tile in- call Safemark headquarters: 517-323-7000, ext. 527. stallation, pond development, .Compared to our bias tire in plowed ground testing in San Angelo, Texas surface water diversion, laser RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 2.3 AGRINOMIC UPDATE Michigan's Changing Dry Bean Industry Faced with increased competi- out the market in hope of some from several sources including tion, unfavorable foreign ex- price recovery. Generally, their dealer network, but find- change rates and changes in however, a recovery does not ing market information is no consumer dietary preference, materialize until harvest is in small task. Since dry beans are dry bean producers in Michigan progress, or a weather scare be- not traded on a commodity ex- will need to capitalize on mar- comes serious enough to encour- change, a sounding board for keting and promotion opportun- age buying. Neither time is a par- daily trading does not exist. ities for the Michigan crop. ticularly good time for selling. For most producers, the More than four million hundred- The U.S. reserve stocks of dry dealer network is the most weight of dry beans are produced beans, unlike commodities cov- readily accessible source of in- in the state each year, making ered by government support formation. Another source of Michigan the leader in both pro- programs, are held by the grow- marketing information is the duction and market share among ers. The size of the proprietary USDA,which publishes weekly the North American producers. reserve of dry bean stocks has prices and market comments During 1985, dry bean grow- been controversial among trad- through the Agricultural Mar- ers are not only looking at the ers as they barter for price. keting Service in Denver, Colo. crop as an opportunity crop, In an effort to provide the in- Michigan Farm Bureau, but also as a protection against dustry with more accurate infor- through its AgriCom program, producing only feedgrains and mation regarding carryover uses several sources of informa- wheat. Michigan cash crop stocks, the U.S Agricultural tion to provide daily dry bean farmers, like others across the Reporting Service implemented information to growers. The country, are feeling the effects a plan to report stocks twice a weekly USDAreport is also of depressed markets. Unless year. The reports are scheduled available on the AgriCom sys- weather conditions deteriorate, for Sept. I, just prior to harvest, tem for subscribers. producers who have not hedged and Jan. I, after harvest. The Michigan Farm Radio Net- or forward contracted to protect While they cover all dry bean work also provides some state against the downside have little production, navy bean produc- and local dry bean market infor- to look forward to. tion represents a major seg- mation. A weekly dry bean in- Also affecting markets is the ment of the reports. It is hoped dustry update is produced each proposed export bonus pro- that the reports will result in a Friday for the MFRNby AgriCom gram, which is intended to re- more accurate projection of in cooperation with the MFB In- duce government owned stocks prices for the commodity. formation & Public Relations of wheat and feedgrains. In the Division. The report contains long run, the program will help Market Information Sources dry bean price~ and marketing prices. In the short run, the ef- Even though the 1985 navy news and trends. fect on grain markets is viewed bean crop is in its infancy, the as bearish because of the in- search for markets and market Exchange Rate Imbalance creased availability of free information is key to the pro- U.S. agricultural commodity stocks. ducer's marketing plan. Unfor- markets, already strained by While dry bean production tunately, most growers view surplus production, face may offer opportunity and the marketing as a seasonal func- another challenge resulting protection of diversified crop to tion similar to production. from U.S. foreign exchange producers, the commodity is Marketing the crop deserves rates. Foreign investors feel the not without risk. year-round attention, especially dollar is a safe investment and Navy bean growers usually in the present market circum- have speculated heavily in the find that new crop bids offered stances of declining consump- currency market. Also, the high early in the year represent the tion, unfavorable foreign ex- real interest rates have at- best bid they will be offered for change rates and increased tracted foreign investors. At the some time. Growers who choose competition. same time, the effect of a not to contract are likely to be Growers need a good mix of strong dollar has increased the left with the alternative of ac- weekly and daily information cost of commodities to import- cepting lower offers, or waiting ing nations. 24 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 The result is a continued ing a five-cent per hundred- The commission also spon- decline in our export trade. The weight check-off and 50°/0 of sors recipe contests and cook- U.S. trade deficit was $11.5 the check-off is used for prod- books, the biennial Capitol billion in April and since the uct promotion. Promotion ac- Bean Day and cooperative prod- first of the year, the deficit tivities of the commission in- uct promotion efforts with stands at $44.63 billion. clude participation in the Na- Hobie's Restaurants, Inc. The Dry bean producers are espe- tional Restaurant Show, Michi- Michigan Bean Commission also cially concerned about the ef- gan and Great Lakes Food Show, represents grower interests and fect of this foreign exchange and state and county fair ex- concerns to the Legislature. rate imbalance relative to the hibits. British pound. The all-time low of the British pound at $1.02 against the U.S. dollar came in February 1985, but has been tempered by a recent turn- around as recovery occurred. In early June the exchange rate was $1.27. This is a more favor- able position for United King- dom buyers but still a long way from the poundl dollar relation- BEST Market Advisory Service ship prior to 1980. The importance of the U.K. in the Nation ... market to North American dry bean producers cannot be over- stated. Each year over 2.25 million hundredweight of navy beans are exported to the British Isles by the U.S. and On- Available Only From Ag riCom SM tario. The major consumer According to a Farm Journal analysis, Illinois Farm Bureau's product of navy beans in the AgriVisor is tops in the nation ... and it's available in Michigan U.K. continues to be canned exclusively through AgriCom. beans in tomato sauce. And Farm Journal compared the track records of the nation's six while per capita consumption of top marketing services for 1981-82-83 and AgriVisor was navy beans in the U.S. has ranked No.1. The Journal's economist, John Marten, calls that shown a 25°/0 decline over the one heck of a record! last few years, consumption in the U.K. is on a slight increase. Consider this ... if you had followed AgriVisor's market advice, Michigan's bean industry is you would have averaged 20 cents over the National Average Price for corn and more than 50 cents for soybeans over the taking aggressive steps to 3-year period. maintain its market share in the U.K. against competition Let AgriCom help increase your net farm income. Use this from Minnesota and Ontario. coupon to request more information about Michigan Farm Each spring a contingent of Bureau's AgriCom service, or call 517-323-7000,extension 547. Michigan dry bean growers and dealers travel to the British Isles to present a three-day ------------------------------- Fill out and return to: AgriCom, Michigan Farm Bureau, marketing seminar to buyers P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909 and processors. This year's market promotion seminar was YES! I'm interested in learning how AgriCom and its "tops in the held in Scotland. Seminar topics nation" market advisory service, AgriVisor, can help increase my included production practices, net farm income. Send me more information! markets, quality and inspec- Name tion. Michigan growers fund pro- Address motion of their products through the Michigan Bean Commission. Growers are pay- Phone RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 25 The Discussion Topic is used by Community Ac- tion Groups for monthly polley discussions. WATER RIGUTS Michigan's abundant resource often confusing. One problem is Under that rule, once a body of of fresh water is a source of that the various doctrines and land is separated by description pride for every Michigan citizen. rules work quite well until a from a body of water by a legal Indeed, Michigan has been challenge is made in court. A definition, the severed land can- rightfully called "The Water court test can be very costly for not legally receive water from Wonderland." The state boasts both the plaintiff and defen- the body of water to which it approximately 3,100 miles of dant. In some cases, the parties was originally attached. Simply shoreline and more than 38,500 must generate large sums of stated, if land contiguous to a square miles of Great Lakes money to build or defend their lake was once a single descrip- water within its boundary. In legal position. tion and for some reason was addition, Michigan has over Michigan water law is derived separated, only that portion of 36,000 miles of rivers and from two sources - statutory land which is adjacent to or streams and approximately (laws made by the Legislature) contiguous to the body of water 2,000 inland lakes with surface and common law (which con- may legally receive water from areas of 50 acres or more. sists of legal principles handed the lake. Such vast water resources down by various court rulings However, there is an excep- have long supported agricul- in this state). There are numer- tion to the severance rule. A ture, industry and tourism in ous Michigan statutes - laws - non-riparian user may claim a the state and have been inte- which affect irrigation. Depend- prescriptive right to a neigh- gral to the outstanding quality ing on whether you wish to irri- bor's riparian water through the of life enjoyed by Michigan gate or prohibit someone from use of that water. Prescriptive residents. Together these irrigating, there are at least right may be established if no bodies of fresh water and nine separate laws which may legal action is taken against a underground aquifers provide address the question. practice for 15 years. water for irrigated agriculture, Surface water is covered by Michigan's Riparian Doctrine manufacturing and shipping in- the Riparian Doctrine. The also includes a rule prohibiting dustries, power generation, do- Riparian Doctrine was handed interbasin transfer of irrigation mestic and municipal needs, down from English common law water. This prohibition means a recreation, and fish and wildlife and is the basis for most sur- farmer in one water shed or resources. face water law east of the basin may not transfer water to The agricultural sector of Mississippi. a field which may be in another Michigan's economy depends Riparian Doctrine simply water shed or basin. Problems upon water as a natural tool of states that the property owner are encountered when the field production along with land and who has access to the body of to be irrigated lies in several air. water is restricted from impair- basins or water sheds. Com- In 1977, an estimated ing or restricting that water from plex? Yes. And costly, too, if the 287,000 acres of agricultural other riparians. The principle case is taken to court. land were being irrigated. To- most frequently used in resolv- Due to the rapid expansion in day, it is estimated that over ing impairment disputes be- irrigation of Michigan farm- 400,000 acres of land are being tween riparians is that of rea- lands, the perception is gener- irrigated. In view of this conti- sonable use. That is, a person ated, real or imagined, that nuing trend toward irrigated may use a reasonable amount agriculture is using more than cropland, the issue of agricul- of water as long as it does not its proportionate share of water. tural water use and water rights unreasonably interfere with a Our state's residents, both farm is a major concern. neighbor. and non-farm, often place re- Complicating the issue are Within the Riparian Doctrine sponsibility on agriculture when the laws which affect water use are various other rules in- a water body, surface or under- or which fail to address agricul- cluding the severance rule. ground, is drawn down. tural irrigation. Michigan's As wells are drilled and ex- water law is complex and very isting wells dry up, the die is 26 RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 cast for a court challenge. mizing lawsuits and reducing of the state from pollution, im- Often the wells that dry up are the cost to users of water. pairment and destruction. very old and simply need rou- Delegates to the 1984 Michi- -Clarify that commercial tine maintenance. However, the gan Farm Bureau Annual Meet- agriculture irrigation for food concern is that the individual ing drafted a very clear and and fiber production is in the who drilled the new well is, or detailed policy on water rights. public interest and is a reason- may be, guilty of drying up an Excerpts of that policy follow. able use of water. older well. (For the complete policy see - Allow interbasin transfer of Groundwater is not the only page 16 of the 1985 MFB policy irrigation water and modify the concern. If water is drawn from book.) severance rule by permitting ir- surface water, including lakes -Identifying critical water rigation water on land which is or streams, irrigation may be management areas on a water immediately contiguous and ad- identified as the culprit if the shed basis. jacent to land which touches water level goes down. One of -Implementing a water use lakes, streams or other water agriculture's major problems is permit program administered courses, so long as such land is that the highest demand for crop by the local soil conservation held in the ownership of a irrigation frequently coincides district for surface and ground single individual or other legal with periods of low stream flow. water on critical water area entity and is held for the pur- Thus, the low stream flow draw basis. No permit system should pose of agriculture production down is accelerated and com- be put into effect until critical of food and fiber. pounded by drawing down water management areas are -Clarify that the Riparian water for irrigation. Here again established. Rights Doctrine is applicable to are all the ingredients of a - Allow establishment of ground water. court challenge by individuals minimum instream flow stan- MFB policy continues to sup- concerned about wildlife and dards and/ or maximum port legislation to clarify that a fish habitat, and rightfully so. groundwater withdrawal rates (continued on page 30) While availability of water is a to protect the natural resources critical question, there is great concern regarding water quali- ty. Because of methods of dis- posal, some aquifers have be- come contaminated from land- fills, reducing both the quality Analytical Laboratory and availability of water. Nutrients applied by agricul- "Where Quality is Assured" tural producers are often cited The Agra Land Basic Forage Analysis Package is available as a cause of water contamina- at only $14.00 per sample, including prepaid postage. tion due to nutrient leaching through the soil surface and in- NO. BASIC ANALYSIS PACKAGE PRICE to groundwater. In addition, A-I Crude Protein, Bound Protein, Adjusted Protein, runoff from agricultural opera- Moisture, Acid Detergent Fiber, Crude Fiber, tions to surface water has also TON, Ca, p, Mg, K, ENE and NE1 $ 14.00 diminished the quality of the Basic Analysis Excluding Major Minerals 12.00 water. Many solutions have been sug- Available Tests When ADDED to Items A-lor A-2 gested. Some groups and organ- Minor Mineral Analysis Includes: Iron, izations claim that existing law Manganese, Copper and Zinc 6.00 and doctrine are adequate to NPN (Urea) 4.00 protect our water resource. NITRATE 3.00 Others maintain that case law is pH 2.00 inadequate to deal with the di- verse and complex nature of the For more information, call today and issue and that additional laws ask for your free Analysis Sample Kits. should be enacted to clearly ad- dress the question, thus mini- 616-746-4247 Agra Land, Inc. - Laboratory 370112 C. Drive, N., P.O. Box 1475, Battle Creek, MI 49016 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 27 Legislative Review planting, growing, insect and it: "As I walk, I feel it getting (continued from page B) disease control, marketing, pro- cold. My feet are wet, and it is motion, product development, getting dark. I start to wonder The council would be funded etc. The legislation also in- what would happen if there real- from the state's general fund. It cludes provisions to develop ly was a nuclear war. I can would be required to provide for financial aid programs to wine perceive our country as a land research on wine grapes and grape growers to encourage of emptiness, a land of shat- wine including methods of planting of desirable grape tered pride, and most of all, a varieties. land of death. But, now I see what would happen if we could prevent this. I see once again a Lansing legislative topics are reviewed by Robert E. Smith, land of beauty, opportunity, freedom, and most of all, senior legislative counsel. hope." Gigi Laurent of Southfield reaffirmed her hope for a new Manage Uealtb Care generation of Americans when (continued from page 9) .she wrote, "I believe in the next Let Us generation. Should I have chil- Put The health care facility are "free." dren of my own, I will do my ~EROTEC Actually, we all pay for un- Power best to raise them properly. I necessary or excessive care will fight for arms control not In Your through higher insurance only in my country, but all over Hands • •• - •• premiums . We are all responsible for con- the world and hope that I can succeed with others in saving Wind power trolling the cost of our group civilization." medical insurance. Our pre- There are many challenges for Electricity miums are based on the cost of the coming generation of lead- @ Generating our claims. The higher the ers, wrote second place winner Systems claims, the higher the pre- Gabrielle Durocher of Alma. miums must be to cover ex- "Let us provide food for the AEROTEC Industries Inc. penses. Since you pay the P.O. Box 114 hungry, not weapons for the premium for your health in- warmongers. Let us begin to Maybee, Michigan 48159 surance, make sure that you do restore our habitat, not keep Please send more information to: all you can to help keep those donating it for landfills. Let us costs down. give our young people the --------------- Name chance for a good education, ~ Address John VanderMolen is manager not send them off to war. Let us City Stale __ Zip of member services for Michigan give jobs to the millions of peo- Phone Farm Bureau. ple who are unemployed, not tax breaks to the multi-million Your Florida vacation home is waiting for you at .. dollar corporations. And, the ORANGE MANOR last and most important point, America.l!t Me let us make peace, not war." MOBILE HOME PARK -All adult, 4D-plus environment -Recrea- (continued from page 11) The complete text of the win- tional clubhouses -Fishing lake with pier ning essays and selected essays -Two swimming pools -16 shuffleboard by getting a background in the from students throughout the courts -Located just two miles south of issues. When I get older, I plan Cypress Gardens state will be published by Farm to volunteer to help political Bureau Insurance Group. The For more information call or write: candidates. I can show my Orange Manor Mobile Home Park booklet will be available this friends my pride in America 18 Kinsmen Drive fall. Winter Haven, FL 33880 when I participate in the The America & Me Essay Con- 813-324-4968 political process. Maybe they test was developed by FBIG in will join me." Please send me more information on 1968 to encourage Michigan But, the hopeful dreams of Orange Manor Mobile Home Park. youth to explore their roles in the young essayists are dark- Name America's future. Since that ened by the existence of war Address time, more than 100,000 young and unrest in our world. In their City people have participated in the young lives, they walk with the State Zip contest. threat of nuclear destruction, as RL 7f85 Mike Kim of Lansing expressed 28 RURAL LIVING, JULY 1985 Quilt Contest tive, no nothing. We were just "So now the county Farm left flat," Rochowiak said. Bureau is going to send out let- (continued from page 12) "When the reporter did the arti- ters explaining what is happen- proper care. One way to help cle on urban farming, she also ing and to build up the farmers' ensure that accidental spills will included the fact that the drain confidence that the drain com- not harm delicate works of commissioner didn't attend our mission really wants to work fabric art is to use a fabric pro- meeting." with us to help get better tector (such as Scotchgard) As a result of the article, drainage for our farms." when completing or purchasing Rochowiak got a phone call Rochowiak said'many of the a new quilt. It helps prevent oily from William Lucas, Wayne townships are offering grants to or watery spills from penetrat- County executive, who asked to help the farmers. "Some are ing textiles so they can be see him immediately. willing to give manpower and wiped away before leaving a Rochowiak, Gill and Morse equipment. I haven't got it in stain. Brown of the SCD met with writing, but I was told by the Here are some suggestions Lucas and his assistant the county that there is some man- for proper care of your quilts: following week to discuss the power available to clean out - Dry cleaning quilts generally drainage problem. "They didn't certain ditches at no cost to the is not recommended because want to hear about the old farmers. the process can weaken the fi- problems we had and how de- ''I'm just flabbergasted by the bers. If possible, have quilts pressed we were about them," fact that we're getting so much professionally laundered. Rochowiak said. "They wanted help from the county," Rocho- -If washing a quilt yourself, to know what they could do wiak said. "We're now in the be sure to dry it flat, on screen- now. process of looking at the long- ing that allows air to circulate "We couldn't believe they had range plan for taking care of freely through the fibers. Never that attitude and were con- the ditches." hang a wet quilt. They're heavy cerned that they were just try- He sees FB's success with the and hanging can cause them to ing to make us feel good. We drainage problem as a useful lose their shape. The weight can had always been told that the tool in next year's membership also cause the stitches to drain commission was a separ- drive. "If I can convince the break. ate entity. The drain commis- members that the county (gov- - After laundering, reapply a sioner was on vacation, and we ernment) is serious about help- fabric protector that is safe for were afraid that he wouldn't ing with the drainage problem, I all types of colorfast fabrics and follow through on the promises think it'll make membership a does not affect the feel or that were being made to us. shoe-in next year." "breathability" of the fabric. As "But at the next meeting a Rochowiak points with pride with all other household chemi- week later, they presented us to successes Wayne County FB cals, be sure to follow label with permits for farmers to ap- has enjoyed this last year and directions carefully. Use only in ply for cleaning out their drains along with other flower growers a well-ventilated room or out- and asked us to get them to the is happy and excited about the doors, if possible, and wait an farmers." growth in Flower Day atten- hour before making a second dance and sales. application. Farmers Don't Believe What is Uappening Earn $10to $20per hour Rochowiak said the permits in your neigh1iorhood Wayne County would allow the farmers to write orders for Mason Shoes Present the Mason Shoe catalog to neighbors, (continued from page 20) clean the drains using their own relatives or friends. Let them thumb through the pages, over 400 up-to-date shoe styles. "Someone there got in touch money and equipment. How- Then take their order. Their deposit with The Detroit News. A ever, all the permit fees were -from $3.00 to $18.50 per pair-is reporter called me and said waived. "The system we set yours to keep. That's right, you get paid before the order is sent to she'd like to do an article on ur- up was saving the farmers close Mason. No investment ... ever. ban farming. She interviewed to $500 in permit fees alone, Catalog and sales tools are free. (Get started, just send the me and I invited her to the but then we ran into problems. coupon below to Mason.) drainage meeting," he said. "First of all, last year was MASON SHOE MFG. CO. 1251 First Ave. "When she got there she found very bad for a lot of farmers. ..------- Chippewa Falls, WI 54774 out how discouraged the farm- Many just don't have the money ers were with the attitude that to clean their drains or to hire : MASON SHOE MFG. CO., Dept F-687 1251 First Ave . the drain commission and someone to come out and clear • Chippewa Falls, WI 54774 : Rash gUiat free CIItalog .ad st.rtiag kit to: everybody had about helping us their ditches. That's one prob- • NAME at that time. lem. The second problem is that IADDRESS "Our drain commissioner nobody believes this is happen- : CITY never showed. No representa- ing . • STATE ZIP • RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 --------------------------.29 Discussion Topic est and responsibility in evalu- make recommendations to the ating water problems, availabil- MFB board for further action. (continued from page 27) ity and uses in their area and The Natural Resources Advisory farm or farm operation has the should be prepared to support Committee has met with numer- right to use a reasonable their policy if and when legisla- ous resource people to evaluate amount of water so long as they tion is introduced. and understand Michigan's cur- do not impair other users of An advisory committee of 20 rent Riparian Rights Doctrine, water. members from throughout the laws and rules dealing with Everyone has an interest in state has been named to review water. water quality and supply. Farm and evaluate Farm Bureau's Bureau members have an inter- position on water rights and Discussion Questions -Are water supplies, both sur- face and ground, adequate BUY YOUR NEXT CAR AT 1% in your area? - Has irrigation increased OVER FACTORY INVOICE significantly in your area? -Should farmers have limited or Save hundreds of dollars on unlimited right to use water a new American car or truck! for livestock and crop production? Sav-On Cars is furnishing Farm Bureau members important car-cost information which will save you substantial time This month's discussion topic and money when shopping for your next car. * was prepared by the MFB Public Affairs Division. Save-on Cars with Your Farm Bureau - HERE'S HOW: • Select as many cars or trucks as you are seriously considering. Fill in the appropriate in- formation on the coupon below. • Within one business day of receiving your request we will return to you a computer printout personalized for the speCific model(s} you have selected. This Car-Option Ag Expo '85 Printout will show you the wholesale and retail cost for the base model and for each (continued from page 2.3) and every option available on that particular model. • You pick the options YOU want, at home, without being pressured. Then, at the bot- Farm Bureau / Agra Land tent on tom of your Car-Option Printout you will find a simple form to fill out which will help their itineraries will be treated you calculate the final dealer invoice cost, including any mandatory charges. to entertainment and chances • Use this price to negotiate your best deal with your local dealer, OR, if we list a par- ticipating factory-authorized dealer in your general area, you can buy the car from for prizes as well as informa- him at an average of just 1% over dealer invoice. tion. The Night Rider Band will -------------------------------- provide regular performances and hourly drawings for prizes Please send me a price and options printout for each model listed below. will be held throughout the Style three days. Visitors can also Model Year Make Model IMPORTANT have their blood pressure Example LESABRE 4-DOOR checked at a booth sponsored 1985 BUICK LIMITED SEDAN by the MFBWomen. Free admission, free parking, free bus service to field demon- nd strations, free horse and tractor 2 car shuttles, convenient on-site rd 3 car food service, plus the un- equaled opportunity to see the PRICES: $9 for 1 car, $17 for 2 cars, $24 for 3 cars. latest in farm equipment and Please Print agricultural technology, make Name attending Ag Expo '85 a real "informed choice." Address Ag Expo will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday and City 'itate Zip Wednesday, and from 9 a.m. to Here is my: DCheck DMastercard or Visa Card # Expiration Date 4 p.m. on Thursday. Farm Bureau Membership # Promotional flyers giving ac- Mail with payment to: Sav-On Cars tivity and location information 16711 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 336 Southfield, Michigan 48034 are available from county Farm 'Due to demand, some models may not be available for prompt delivery. J Bureau and Extension Service offices. -------------------------- 1 .30 RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE FARM EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK REAL ESTATE NURSERY STOCK Gas Engines - Briggs and Tecumseh .3 Live trout. walleye. bass. perch. for Sale - 40 acres near Three Rivers, Berry Plants - Raspberries. strawber- to 10 h.p. Send for catalog: Midwestern bluegllis. catfish. Feed, supplies. Mich. Modern .3-bedroom tri-Ievel. Per- ries. blueberries. currants. gooseberries, Hydraulics. P.O. Box 27771, Indian- Stoney Creek Trout Farm. Grant. 616- fect soli and location for U-plck enter- others. Free catalog. Maklelski Berry apolis.IN 46227. (7-20p-ts) 8.34-7720. (5-.3t-15p) prise. Small stream. possible pond. Nursery. 7l.30 Platt Road, Dept. RL, Ypsi- Stender Realty. Phone 616-467-6212. lanti, Mich. 48197. Phone .31.3-4.34-.367.3. Farmers' Antique Tractor Auction. Duroc Boars and Gilts sound and (7-26p) (11-12t-22p) Sunday, July 21. II a.m .. M-52 north of durable. Delivery available. Jim Adrian. Mich .. Heritage Farm. Need an- Previch. 8147 Forrister Road. Adrian. tique tractors, equipment and buyers for Mich. 4922 J. 517-265-4112. auction. Phone 419-92.3-.3671. Auc- (6-12t-18p) tioneers: Gaylord Richardson, 97.32 CO. CLASSIFIED AD POLICY Road RS. Delta. Ohio 4.3515. phone 419-92.3-.3671 and Vaughn "Joe" lewis. .3.310 Paragon Road, Tipton. Mich. MISCELLANEOUS 49287, phone 517-4.31-257 J. (7-51 p) - Farm Bureau members pay 25 cents per word for all Attorney handling farm-related classified advertisements. Complete Line of New and Used Irri- problems. serving central and lower - All other advertisers pay 50 cents per word for one insertion gation Equipment - Also equipment Michigan. Weekend appointments avail- for manure pumping and spreading by and 45 cents per word for two or more consecutive insertions able. Prad Mathur. phone Mt. Pleasant - gun. tanker, or InJection. Plummer 517-772-0108. or East Lansing - 517- of the same ad. Supply. Inc .. 1-800-6.32-77.3 J. .349-2299. (7-2.3p-ts) -All advertisements are subject to a IS-word minimum ( 1-12t-2.3p) charge. including member ads. Scholarships. thousands available WANTED: N.I. cornplcker and N.". regardless of Income. grades or financial -Please indicate if you are a Farm Bureau member. field equipment. Phone 517-52.3-280.3. evenings. (2-12t-IOp-ts) need. We guarantee college and high -The deadline for ads is the first Monday of the month school students five sources they qualify for. Most completing our short question- preceding publication. "og Equipment - Dei-Air heat ex- naire receive over 20. Send $.3 for infor- -All ads must be pre-paid and may be pre-paid up to one changers. Osborne feeders. K.G. John- mative brochure and questionnaire. (Re- son farrowing crates. Chore-Time feed- year in advance. fundable) Nationwide Scholarship Finders. Ing, Mix-Mill systems. Hamilton Distri- Box 2257. Lynchburg. Virginia 2450J. -It is the responsibility of the advertiser to re-insert the ad on buting Company. 616-751-516J. (7-46p-ts) a month-by-month or year-by-year basis. (6-12t-17p-ts) -The publisher has the right to reject any advertising copy Satellite Antenna Brokers Needed - Grain Dryers - Stormor Ezee-Dry, Farm no experience required. Buy direct from submitted. Fans Automatic. Used Dryers, PTO and distributor. Bypass middleman. Whole- -No ads will be taken over the phone. Automatic. Hamilton Distributing Com- sale $499. Retail $ L 195. Call day or pany,616-751-516J. (6-12t-17p-ts) night: .30.3-6.36-066.3 or write: Antenna. Fill out form below and mail to: P.O. Box 152.36. Colorado Springs, Col- Rural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909 orado 809.35. (2-tfn-.3.3b-ts) F.E. post hole digger: 9"x40" Danler field cultivator; J.D. breaking plow and Need cash now? Earn cash now with disk; solid bed wagon; and New Holland Mason Shoe orders from friends. neigh- hay baler. All in good condition. Davis. bors, relatives. No Investment or risk. Name Box 5.36. Linden, Mich. 48451. (7-.30p) It's easyl Write Mason Shoes. K-922, Chippewa Falls. WI 54774. (7-28p-ts) Address _ DOGS REAL ESTATE Sheltle (mini-collie) pups. Shots and 320 acre farm - Peck. Michigan. wormed. Ready for Father's Dayl $170.000. Land contract terms. Century OFarm Bureau member ONon-member Beautlesl Phone 517-42.3-.3069. 2 I at the Lakes. Ask for Theo. Phone (7-2t-l.3p) .31.3-698-211 J. (6-2t-18p) Run the following ad in the issue(s): for Sale: 160-acre dairy farm in Delta LIVESTOCK County In the Upper Peninsula. Two homes. large dairy barn. several good out buildings. Machinery Included. Only Milking Shorthorn: Young bulis. year- $148.000. For information call Nancy lings and calves for sale. Write or visit Marenger at Alpine Realty. 906- Stanley M. Powell and Family. Ingleside 428-2.35.3 or 906-.384-6.351. Farm. Route 2, .3248 Poweli Hwy.. Ionia. (6-2t-.37p) Mich. 48846. (2-6t-27p) Beef farm. Otsego County. 110 acres Dieterle Corrledale sheep, give shear tillable. additional available. Land con- pleasure. Breeding stock. Blue ribbon tract terms $150.000. Call Andy Sekora. fleeced fiock. Spinning Fleece's. phone 517-7.32-5119. Gaylord Mortgage & .3l.3-429-7874. (5-12t-15p) Realty. (7-22p) Performance tested Angus breeding stock and crossbred club calves. Rea- Thinking of buying or seiling in sonably priced. Delivery available. Bord- Otsego or neighboring counties? Call ner Angus Farms. Sturgis, Mich. Call Andy Sekora. 517-7.32-5119. Gaylord 616-651-8.35.3. (7-6t-20p) Mortgage & Realty. (7-19p) Dave a Safe and Dappy 4th of July! Words Insertions Total Due _ I RURAL LIVING, JUL Y 1985 31 I America's First And Michigan's Finest ... • • Farm.owners Insurance For Michigan Farm.ers Only Ever since Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Michigan introduced the first Farmowners policy in the nation in 1960, we've been the leader in Michigan farm protection. We insure more Michigan farms than any other company because we provide the complete and innovative coverages you need. Our Farmowners program is exclusively for Michigan Farm Bureau members, so you can be sure of coverages designed for your individual needs. When it comes to Michigan farm protection, we don't play follow the leader; we're right out front with the coverages you need. Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent today. Making your future a little more predictable FARM BUREAU ~ INSURANCE GROUP Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine Non-Profit Organization P.O. Box 30960 U.S. POSTAGE 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy. PAID Lansing, Michigan 489.09 Lansing, Michigan Permit No. 37