Some Purchases Made by Michigan Farm Bureau Members Seiko Watch - Savings: $167 Jenn-Air Range - Savings: $134 Michigan Farm Bureau Whirlpool Refrigerator - Savings: $117 G.E. Dishwasher - Savings: $140 Buyer's Service Program Styl ine Table - Savings: $120 Thomasville Bedroom Suite - Savings: $421 St. Johns Furniture - Savings: $580 Amana Radarange - Savings: $170 What IS the Amana Refrigerator Homelite - Savings: $157 Chainsaw - Savings: $75 RCA Video Recorder, Tuner, Camera - Buyer/s Service? Savings: $425 Dressher Brass Headboard - Savings: $192 The Michigan Farm Bureau Buyer's Service is a Richardson Dining Room Furl)iture - program designed to help save you hundreds Savings: $690 of dollars on major purchases that you may Whirlpool Washer - Savings: $94 make in the coming years. Farm Bureau has Whirlpool Dishwasher - Savings: $79 contracted with the Family Saver Co. to pro- John Deere Chainsaw - Savings: $50 vide this service. Zenith Television - Savings: $135 The Family Saver can be your purchasing agen- Bassett Occasional Tables - Savings: $631 cy by eliminating much of the middleman's high mark-up and pass these savings on to you. r-------------------------- No pressure to buy, only our help in saving Michigan Farm Bureau Buyer's Service Enrollment Form you money. Please complete and mail along with your check or money order in the amount of $20.00 to: Michigan Farm Bureau How can we Member Service Department P.O. Box 30960 Lansing, M J 48909 do this? Date Very simple. We order merchandise direct from the factory or distributor and ship it Membership Number directly to you or to a warehouse near where you I ive. We do not have the high cost of in- Farm Bureau Membership Name ventory, or large warehouse and showrooms, (as shown on membership card) sales commissions, etc. As your purchasing agent to help you save money, we also have some retailers who are interested in increasing their volume and thus giving them larger buy- ing discounts by brokering their product Address through our great purchasing power. City State and Zip What does it cost? Telephone No. ( The Buyer's Service, at a cost of only $20 for the first year and $15 thereafter annually, Amount Enclosed $ (check or money order) allows you to get unlimited pricing information via a toll free number. This program compares -------------------------- favorably with ones costing up to $795 annually. IL 1UJ OCTOBER 1985 FARM NEWS VOL. 64 NO. 10 A publication of the Michigan Farm Bureau In this issue: Agriculture's United Voice County Farm Bureaus throughout Michigan are meeting this fall for their annual policy setting sessions. Gratiot County FB members also commemorated their organization's 50th year in service to agriculture. 10 Hall of Fame Honors Farm Partners Stanley and Eleanor Powell's partnership has stood the test of time and service to their industry. The Powells and nine other farm couples were recently inducted into the Michigan Farmers' Hall of Fame. 12 Kellogg Dairy Center Focuses on Management and Applied Research 14 COLUMNS Rural Route - page 4 Rural Exchange — page 18 Country Ledger — page 5 Agrinomic Update — page 24 Legislative Review — page 6 Discussion Topic - page 26 Front and Center — page 15 Farm Bureau Market Place — page 31 Michigan Farm News RURAL LIVING: Michigan Farm ftews 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 Box 30960; telephone. Lansing 517-323-7000. Extension 510. SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: $1.50 per year to members, included in annual dues. $3.00 per year non-members in Michigan, $5.00 per year non-members out of state. Publication No. 345040. Established Jan. 13. 1923 as Michigan farm news, name changed to Michigan Farm Flews 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 Wllbcr. Contributing Editor; Marcia Ditchie. Associate Editor; Cathy J. Kirvan. Associate Editor. OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; President, Elton R. Smith. Caledonia; Vice President, John Laurie. Cass City; Administrative Director. Robert Braden: Treasurer and Chief financial Officer, Matthew But- zin; Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District I. Arthur Bailey. Schoolcraft; District 2 Lowell Eisenmann, Blissfield: District 3. James Sayre. Belleville, District 4 Elton R. Smith. Caledonia District 5. Albert Cook, Mason; District 6, John Laurie. Cass City; District 7, Robert Rider. Hart District 8 Lyle LcCronier. rreeland District 9. Donald Nugent Frankfort District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District I I. Bernard Doll, Daftcr. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Dave Conklin. Corunna. Michael Pridgeon, Montgomery. Wayne Wood Marlette. FARM BUREAU WOMEN: Faye Adam Snover. FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS: David Lott. Mason. RURAL ROUTE MFB's Purpose Smith encourages R e m a i n s Constant: members to use the PD/PX process to Serving Farmers solve problems. This is county annual meeting save a sinking industry, was be- it doesn't necessarily remain time in Michigan, when Farm ing touted as a good production solved and that our victories Bureau members across the control program that just need- must be guarded by the contin- state set aside a few hours to ed some fixing. U.S. farmers ued vigilance of a strong Farm conduct the important business were encouraged to forget Bureau. The sales tax exemp- of their organization, recognize about the foreign markets they tion is a good example because the achievements of worthy in- had lost and concentrate only it has been challenged regularly dividuals, and make policy deci- on the domestic market. through the years and each sions and recommendations. In Tariffs, unfair trade practices, time farmers, through their most cases, business is com- increased federal spending, Farm Bureau, have been vic- bined with pleasure as farmers taxes, financing of schools and torious. exchange news and views over a roads were other concerns of This look back tells us that good meal. farmers in 1935. while times change, and Farm On the annual meeting agen- It was in the midst of this Bureau policies, programs and das of several county FBs this challenging environment that services change to meet the year will be the addition of the county FBs celebrating their needs of changing times, one some appropriate recognition 50th anniversary this year were thing is constant. The one thing that 1985 marks their 50th an- born. Their parent Michigan that does not change is the pur- niversary as an organization. State Farm Bureau was emerg- pose of Farm Bureau, its reason With the focus on policy devel- ing as a new power for farmer for being — to serve as a opment, county annuals are a interests, recognition of its problem-solving tool for time for looking ahead. But growing influence on legislative farmers. reaching such a significant issues spreading across the Yesterday, today, tomorrow — landmark is worthy of celebra- state. The young organization's Farm Bureau was, it is, and tion and a look back. successful fight for sales tax ex- always will be, an organization I think looking back on such emption on farm inputs was won through which farmers can an occasion is a good exercise that year, a victory that 50 analyze their problems and take because it reminds us what years later is still recognized as united action to solve those Farm Bureau is and why it was one of the greatest in Farm Bu- problems. started. reau history. I challenge not just those In 1935, when several of our That victory saved farmers county FBs celebrating 50 years county FBs were born, we had nearly $2 million in 1935, in of service to farmers, but also just experienced the worst tough economic times when those older and younger, to drougth in history. Farm prices every precious dollar spent had rededicate themselves to that were on a slight incline but still to be carefully evaluated in principle. Your future, the 40% behind the high income terms of its return. As one of future of agriculture, depends year of 1929. Many farmers our FB leaders noted then: "No upon how effectively you use were on the brink of bankruptcy farmer is so poor but what he the problem-solving tool that is and county farm debt commit- would have been poorer had Farm Bureau. tees were formed to help these there been no such organiza- farm families work out equi- tion as the Michigan State Farm table solutions with their credi- Bureau. Can a farmer afford to tors. belong to Farm Bureau? He The Agricultural Adjustment can't afford not to!" Elton R. Smith, President Administration, developed by This glimpse of the past tells Michigan Farm Bureau the Roosevelt administration to us that many of the problems we face today are like an in- stant replay of those we tackled 50 years ago. It tells us that once a problem has been solved, RURAL LIViriQ, OCTOBER 1985 COUNTRY LEDGER Farm Aid: Good Music, Good Intentions By Donna Wilber who had no food and for help us. And the more 'help' we farmers who have produced get from government, the worse Everyone, it seems, is talking more food than the market off our industry becomes. about the "Farm Aid" concert knows what to do with. "When the fellow downtown except farmers. Through the years, my mom who ran the car dealership or It's really tough for FB staff has had two standard answers the couple who operated the and leadership to know how to for every problem I've shared local hardware store were in communicate with members with her, from the zit on my financial trouble, nobody loved about Farm Aid and the reasons nose on prom night to bank- them enough to call on govern- behind it. If you come across ruptcy in the newspaper busi- ment to save them. I reject the with too much skepticism about ness: "It builds character" and idea of a government-managed the event, those who are in "It's part of God's plan." She agriculture and that's one of trouble think you're insensitive stuck to her script with this the ideas to 'save' us today," and out of touch with what's problem, too. Pridgeon said. really happening. If you follow Proud and compassionate, "My freedom of choice, the the gloom and doom lead of she shares the ambivalent feel- opportunities I have that some media, politicians and ings of most farmers, I think, farmers in other parts of the economists, and the enter- about Farm Aid and the prob- world don't have, are sacred to tainers who staged the event, lems that led to its staging. me. I have a great abiding faith those who are in relatively good Farm Aid did draw national at- in agriculture and I don't be- financial shape think you're tention to the economic hard- lieve the problems we have now dragging the industry down. ships that have befallen many .are insurmountable - if we I talked to my mom about rural Americans. It raised mil- take a lesson from past mis- this challenge because she's lions of dollars which can be takes." been on both ends and in the earmarked for various forms of Farm Aid did raise the ques- middle. The first Christmas I assistance to farm families in tion of how there can be pros- can remember was on an iso- need. perity for some segments of the lated South Dakota ranch, so But even a concert of this economy while agriculture, a isolated that the snowstorm magnitude is little more than a vitally important segment, still that raged outside kept Santa bandaid. If, as some experts suffers. Fifty years of federal from his appointed rounds. He maintain, a third of the out- farm programs and billions of didn't come with the spring standing farm debt of about dollars of taxpayer money have thaw either. We weren't among $218 billion is in danger of go- not made a real difference. the survivors of that farm crisis. ing in default, it would take a Neither did Farm Aid. But Years later) my mom realized thousand such benefit efforts to perhaps because of it, we will her dream of returning to a relieve even the most needy strengthen our determination ranch in South Dakota, a happy among farm debtors. to solve the problems of Ameri- "cowgirl" until her retirement. Dean Pridgeon, former MFB can agriculture. Now in her 80's, she worries vice president and former MDA I hope the ultimate solution that the buyers of her ranch director who now serves as an will rest not with the enter- won't make it through the cur- MSUtrustee, thinks part of tainers who staged the event rent crisis. agriculture's problems stems nor with the publics who re- I just had to know how this from the fact that farmers are sponded to it, but with farmers pioneer felt about her industry loved too much and certainly, themselves, through Farm being in such sad straits that the response to Farm Aid Bureau. There's no doubt that the superstars of the entertain- proves that the public does love will be a character-building ex- ment world held a benefit con- farmers. perience and my mom says it's cert for troubled farmers. It is Sharing some thoughts with part of God's plan. pretty ironic that the two major the MFB board recently, he said, My mom is seldom wrong. benefit concerts of the year "It's too bad we farmers are were held for the Ethiopians loved so much. When farmers are in economic trouble, every- one wants the government to RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 5 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW Farm Policy and Tax Reform Issues Heat Up in Fall Congressional Session Over 60 county FB leaders from System including the scheduled Michigan were in Washington increases in expensing of cer- Sept. 16-17 asking their con- tain depreciable property from gressmen to support FB's Farm the current $5,000 to $10,000 Bill '85. after 10 years. Farm Bill Action — The •Support a capital gains rule House Ag Committee passed a that would give a taxpayer the five year farm bill Sept. 10. Cargo Preference — A option of excluding between Most of the commodity provi- federal district court has ruled 40% and 60% of nominal gains sions were unchanged from the that cargo preference require- on assets or reporting only July version. The committee did ments do apply to export sales gains in excess of inflation as accept savings recommenda- of ag commodities under the ordinary income. tions for $11.8 billion. However, blended credit program •Support a change in present the Congressional Budget Office operated by USDA. The blended capital gains so that all gains estimates that farm bill costs credit program combines CCC on sales of breeding, draft and will exceed the allowable interest-free credits and credit sporting livestock and dairy budget levels by $8 billion. guarantees to produce a more animals would be treated as or- Amendments approved by the favorable interest rate for dinary income. committee would give the USDA foreign buyers of U.S. ag com- •Support current law that secretary authority to reduce modities. allows timber sales to be eligi- the soybean loan rate by 5% if The ruling is being appealed ble for capital gains treatment. needed to maintain export mar- in the Federal Court of Appeals. • Support current law that kets, and establish a producer AFBF has joined the appeal by allows annual expensing of pre- referendum for wheat and feed filing a brief as a friend of the production expenditures for grains, or for a voluntary cer- court. AFBF argues that cargo livestock, orchards, vineyards tificate program. preference requirements do not and timber management and Under the certificate program, apply to commercial transac- development expenses. the USDA secretary would set tions such as those involved in • Support repeal of income acreage reduction requirements. the blended credit program. If averaging. Participating producers would the ruling is not reversed, the • Support cash accounting but receive a non-recourse loan cost of blended credit sales will limit it to taxpayers with gross ($4.50/bu. for wheat; $3.25/bu. increase to foreign buyers by farm receipts of $1 million or for corn) and be issued market- 10% to 15%. less. ing certificates. A government • Support current law that subsidy would be paid to export- allows expenditures for soil con- ers in cash or in grain, much Tax Reform — Following President Reagan's announced ditioners to be deductible in the like the current export bonus year paid. program, to make the U.S. com- plans to reform the federal tax code, AFBF appointed a Tax • Support capitalization of petitive. Producers would vote land clearing expenditures. every two years with a 60% ma- Study Committee. The commit- tee has studied various tax • Support long-lasting soil and jority required for approval. water conservation expendi- reform proposals, developed During floor consideration recommendations and submit- tures and permanent improve- many amendments and lengthy ted a report to the AFBF board. ments being capitalized and debates can be expected. Con- Recommendations of the task then depreciated or added to gressmen will be faced with in- force approved by the board in- the basis of the land, while non- tense lobbying from the many clude: permanent, shortrun improve- interest groups that will be in ments could be expensed with- •Support repeal of the invest- Washington, D.C., when the out limit. ment tax credit. farm bill is being considered. •Support repeal of the special •Support retention of the cur- rent Accelerated Cost Recovery tax credit for timber develop- RURAL LIViriG, OCTOBER 1985 ment but continue all other cur- 1986 PH Policy Must Provide rent timber amortization rules. - Support a grad uated rate Clear Direction on Key Issues structure with lower tax rates for lower income small corpora- tions. -Oppose taxation of life in- surance inside buildup. -Oppose allowing the alcohol fuels tax credits and exemp- tions to expire. The Legislature reconvened on Sept. 18 with many issues to be resolved during the fall ses- sion. AFBFstaff member Mary Kay Thatcher told .county and state fB leaders gathered for the statewide policy development meeting at Lansing, Aug. Taxation - The Senate Fi- 20, that the organization needs clear policy direction in the year ahead on key issues such as tax policy, farm credit, soli conservation and nance Committee held hearings federal crop insurance. on the governor's tax proposals which passed the House before summer recess. About a dozen bills are involved, ranging from ers, 70% of the premium would The new market for corn na- increasing some taxes to a roll- be subject to the 3% rate and tionwide due to ethanol produc- back of the state income tax to 30% to the 2% rate. tion now exceeds 200 million 4.6% before its present phase- out time. Testimony by a farm woman bushels. As a comparison, the at the Grand Rapids hearing U.S.S.R.bought 126 million FB strongly opposed the revealed that total insurance bushels in 1983 and 255 mil- 150% increase proposed on premiums on their farm are lion in 1984 while the ECC capital gains. It would have over $13,000. The tax could be bought about 150 million bush- severely hurt many livestock well over $300. This includes all els. One ordinary size ethanol producers and those selling types of insurance ... workers' plant could use the corn pro- land. The House finally amend- comp, cars, trucks, life, health, duction from 40,000 acres. ed the bill to exempt agricul- fire, wind, etc. A large portion ture. of that total is a family health FB also strongly opposes a Subdivision Control - The care policy which would be tax- new insurance tax that would final draft of proposed legisla- able. It is not a Blue Cross place a 2% to 3% tax on pre- tion completely rewriting the policy. Under the current miums. Farmers buy a greater present subdivision control law legislation, Blue Cross would variety of insurance coverage was to be introduced in Septem- not be taxable but is expected than anyone else. There are 28 ber. It results from nearly three to become taxable later. different types of insurance af- years of work by a special study fected. commission. FB was repre- Premiums which would be Ethanol Production - FB sented on the commission. subject to a 2% tax rate in- continues to work toward in- clude: workers' comp, life, state production. There is a liability, autos, trucks, group Bottle Bill - The issue is good possibility that two or whether "wine cooler" bottles accident and health. The 3% three production units could be tax rate would apply to fire and should come under the bottle built in Michigan, depending on deposit law. The attorney allied lines. In the case of legislative support. "multiple peril" insurance such general and Michigan United as farmowners and homeown- RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 7 Conservation Club are trying to Liability Insurance — S.B. company in order to avoid the get the Liquor Control Commis- 327 and 328 will be considered oppressive state regulations sion to do this by rule. If an in the fall session. The bills and make them competitive amendment to the law is need- place various limits on liability with the other health care com- ed, it would take a 75% vote in claims against governmental panies. Legislation will be con- the Legislature because the bot- units (townships, counties, sidered this fall. tle law was put into effect by a cities, school districts, road voter referendum. commissions). A House commit- FB is supporting a drive to tee is also holding hearings on Assessment Equalization have wine cooler bottles includ- the health related liability prob- — The Supreme Court recently ed in the bottle law. Wine cooler lems. ruled that "creative financing" bottles often cause damage to used in property sales during The State Bar of Michigan and times of high interest rates farm equipment tires. Trial Lawyers Association are must be considered when deter- the chief opponents. mining property value for tax Transportation Formula — purposes. This issue will continue for the Balanced Budget Amend- This was a defeat for the Tax next year. The Legislature ex- ment SJR "A" — One last ef- Commission which, in 1982, re- tended the expiration date of fort will be made during this fused to take "creative financ- the present allocation formula session to make Michigan the ing" into account. The effect because of controversy. FB has 33rd state to pass a resolution was higher valuations of 5% to been very involved and has tes- to require Congress to begin 6% in some areas. The decision tified before the special task the federal constitutional proc- is not retroactive but applies force. ess to mandate balanced feder- after Jan. 1, 1986. al budgets. Energy Study — FB is now Petition Drives — Citizens represented on the advisory Blue Cross Blue Shield — A will be deluged with at least 19 committee on "Michigan's Least major legislative effort will be petition drives to put various Cost Electricity Options." This made to make the "Blues" a issues on the 1986 ballot. will take about two years to non-profit mutual insurance Some of the petitions would: complete. •Permit capital punishment •Require a part-time Legislature •Change the present two house SAFEMARK MULTI-ANGLE RADIAL REARS Legislature to one house •Assure civil rights for homo- sexuals Purchase a set of •Earmark 25% of beer and wine SAFEMARK taxes for substance abuse RADIAL REARS programs •Limit income tax to 5% and we'll pay •Limit governors to two terms your 1986 •Authorize Court of Appeals to determine legislative redis- Farm Bureau ricting Membership* •Prevent utility companies from charging customers for con- struction costs Ask about our •Eliminate taxes for businesses three-year farm netting less than $1,000 per tire limited year •Cut state spending 1% per year warranty through 1996 and refund sur- plus money to taxpayers •Ban abortions ' M o s t dealers participating Lansing legislative topics are reviewed by Robert E. Smith, MFB senior legislative counsel RURAL LIVII1G, OCTOBER 1985 Michigan Farm Bureau AgriPac Raffle Promoted by State and County Young Farmer Committees WIN GRAND PRIZE Carribean Cruise for Two "" FIRST PRIZE Northern Michigan Weekend for Two OTUER PRIZES -19" Color TV - Microwave Oven -Video Cassette Recorder -35mm Camera Outfit \ Drawing will be held at the Michigan Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, AgriPac Breakfast, Dee. 12, 1985,8 a.m., Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Grand Rapids. Contact your local Young Farmer Committee or a member of the State Young Farmer Committee for tickets. Tickets may be purchased by MfB members only. - 'Farmers are such a small segment of the population. Flow more than ever it is important for us to speak with a united voice/' — Edith Humm, President Gratiot County Farm Bureau Agriculture's United Voice Gratiot County Farm Bureau members celebrate 50 years of service to agriculture In 1935, several programs At least one county that "Just as good as its members designed to aid agriculture in organized in 1935 made special make it!" Smith repeated. "That its recovery from the Depres- plans to commemorate its 50th was true in 1919 when the sion and drought were estab- anniversary this year. Michigan Farm Bureau was lished as part of the second "The basic purpose of Gratiot born ... true in 1935 when the phase of President Franklin D. County Farm Bureau has not Gratiot County Farm Bureau Roosevelt's New Deal. changed since 1935," said was formed ... and just as true Notable among those pro- . Edith Humm, Gratiot County FB today!" grams were the development of president. "Our main goal is Smith said the "secret" to the Soil Conservation Service to still to promote farmers and .Farm Bureau's sales tax exemp- help farmers fight erosion, and agriculture. The main issue to- tion victory is the same the establishment of the Rural day is the survival of the family "secret" of every success the Electrification Administration, farm unit. organization enjoys. "The to build power lines and provide "I feel Farm Bureau, as an 'secret' is the willingness of electricity through government- organization of farmers, can ac- members to stand up and be sponsored cooperatives in areas complish much more than indi- counted in support of the not served by utility companies. viduals." she said. "Farmers are policies developed by members," Both agencies are celebrating such a small segment of the he said. "It's standing on the their 50th anniversaries this population and now more than firm foundation of Farm Bureau year. ever it is important for us to policies and speaking out on As FDR's programs to aid speak with a united voice." those policies, turning the farmers were gaining national In his brief comments to the words in our policy books - attention, a still youthful Farm nearly 250 members attending whether they be national, state Bureau organization was gain- the Gratiot annual meeting on or local policies - into action!" ing stature in its efforts to help Sept. 6, MFB President/ AFBF Smith challenged the Gratiot farmers in Michigan. Vice President Elton R. Smith FB members to continue the or- Organized in 1919, the Michi- reflected on the history of the ganization's success. "I think gan State Farm Bureau was in organization. it's good to have an occasion its 16th year of service to the "I looked at the 1935 Michi- such as this to shake out some 'state's farmers when in May gan Farm News copies to re- of the apathy that can creep in- 1935 the organization won a re- fresh my memory of what was to a 50-year-old organization. sounding victory in a 23-month going on the year of your It's a good time to rededicate battle to end the 3% sales tax birth," he said. "There was one ourselves to using that 'secret' on farm supplies. At that time, report that caught my atten- formula to its fullest potential." it was estimated that the ex- tion. Clark Brody, who was then Following Smith's remarks, emption could save Michigan secretary-manager, described Mary Kay Thatcher, assistant farmers nearly $2 million a the young organization with director of national affairs for year. these words: 'The Farm Bureau the American Farm Bureau Fed- The success of the agricultur- has been through its experi- eration, spoke to the group on al exemption suit resulted in mental stages and it is just as "Agriculture - the Tragedy, the many farmers organizing coun- good as its members make it.' Humor and the Myths." ty units which eventually be- (continued on page 23) came a part of the Michigan Farm Bureau. 11 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 Hall of Fame Honors Farm Partners Stanley and Eleanor Powell's farm partnership h a s stood the test of time and given service to their industry. The Powells and nine other c o u p l e s were recently inducted into t h e Michigan Farmers' Hall of Fame. (EDITOR'S riOTE: Stanley and looked forward to showing cat- At the fourth annual induc- Eleanor Powell of Ionia, one of tle at the State Fair — of dating tion ceremonies, held at the Michigan's most highly-re- things from it, looking forward new Michigan Farmers' Hall of spec ted farm couples, were to it, and looking back on it. Fame building near Delton in recently inducted into the "But, then, I thought, a lot of Barry County, the Powells Michigan Farmers' Hall of Tame these honors have been given proudly accepted this latest rec- along with nine other couples. to me and this one honors the ognition as they were honored The following article, based on a partnership of farmer and wife along with nine other farm cou- Sept. 3, 1985 front-page story — and that's a good thing,'" ples. Thirty-two farm couples written by R. C. Gregory, man- Stanley said. "So I decided to have now been inducted. aging editor of the Ionia forget about showing cattle in Formed by a group of citizens Sentinel-Standard, reflects their order to go to the ceremony."' led by William Aukerman, the lifetime of commitment to agri- purpose of the hall of fame is to culture so well that we decided Hall of Fame Emphasizes honor farm couples exclusively, to share the story with our 'Partnership' in Recognition and in that respect, the organi- readers.) The Powells' "partnership'' zation is apparently unique. has been going strong since "Other organizations include When they first learned about 1927 when they married and people from agribusiness and their upcoming induction into took over operation of the farm implements," Stanley said. the Michigan Farmers' Hall of that has been in Stanley's fami- "This organization is different Fame, Stanley and Eleanor Powell ly since 1842. because it honors the farm cou- of Ionia were reticent. But, after ple, the working farm partner- a little reflection, the high ship." honor rests easily with them. "I always think at times like State and National this that there are so many Dignitaries Honor Couples others who have done more, ac- Along with a plaque, the complished more than we have," Powells and other inductees Eleanor said. "We appreciate received letters of congratula- the honor but there are others tions from President Reagan, for whom the honors are over- Gov. Blanchard and other state due.'' and national political figures. Stanley agreed. "When the In his letter, Reagan wrote, in committee first came to inter- part: "Farming remains as de- view us about this and told us manding and difficult an enter- the date, I said, Oh, my, that's prise as ever despite vast scien- when I expect to be showing tific and technological ad- cattle at the (Michigan) State vances. It requires pioneer Fair, which I have done for so spirit and stamina along with many years.' I've lived and business acumen to survive and prosper in the face of innumer- able challenges, including the uncertainties of nature." 12 RURAL LIVING. OCTOBER 1985 Thanks to Congressman Guy VanderJagt (R-Luther), Eleanor says she'll be ready when "my flag wears out." In his letter, VanderJagt said he would send them a flag that was to be flown over the capitol on Aug. 30 to commemorate their in- duction into the hall of fame. "Our nation owes a debt to you and all those who have farmed our land, provided our food and established the values that make us strong. Your 58 years of farming in the Ionia area are indeed impressive as is your outstanding public service," VanderJagt wrote. Career of Service Many Michigan families got to know Stanley Powell, his family and farm to Agriculture philosophy through his column, "Notes From Ingleside Farm," which ap- Stanley, who has been active peared in Michigan Farmer magazine from 1926 until 1965. "Writing that column was probably the highlight of my career in agriculture," in public and political affairs for Stanley said. "ere, he and Eleanor look through a scrapbook of some of more than half a century, start- those columns. ed his career at Michigan Farm Bureau in 1921 working with the part-time Legislature. In wasn't in his vocabulary then, letter of congratulations: "It is 1927, when his father, Herbert so he ran for the Michigan my understanding that you (a former state senator), was House again. This time he was both were instrumental in the named director of the Michigan elected and survived redistrict- passage of the Home Prepared Department of Agriculture, he ing of his district twice before Food Bill 6090, known by many left FB to return to farming full- retiring, once again, in 1978. as the 'Potluck Supper Bill.' It is time but soon went to work for In addition to his Farm Bu- (continued on page 29) the Michigan Co-op Wool Mar- reau involvement, Stanley has keting Association, an FB af- served in various capacities filiate. Never one to sit back and wait with the Soil Conservation for others to take action, District, the Michigan State Stanley decided to run for the Grange, state and national milk- Michigan Legislature (then a ing shorthorn societies and the part-time job) when he was Michigan State Fair Authority. unhappy with the work of his "Sometimes," said Eleanor, state representative. That was "it was 'Goodbye,' on Monday in 1930. He served two years morning, 'I'll see you on Friday.' (1931-32) and was one of many I always say there are three C's Republicans soundly defeated in Stanley's life: church, cattle in the wake of FOR's coattails in and children ... and I'm still 1932. Once again, he returned cleaning up straw from the to farming full-time. kitchen floor because he still In 1938, he returned to Farm goes to the barn every day to Bureau as a legislative counsel do chores." and interrupted his FB service The Powell farm, which was once Powell Partners Push Bill only once more, to serve as a known for its purebred Shrop' Through Legislature shire sheep and milking short- delegate to the Michigan Con- The Powell partnership also horn cattle, is now a dairy and stitutional Convention in cash crop operation run mainly 1961-62. He left FB at age 65 in worked in another way, men- by the Powell's oldest son, Ron. February 1964 after 43 years of tioned by Gov. Blanchard in his But Stanley still gets up at 5:30 a.m. every day to help with the service. But the word "retire" chores. 1.3 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 Kellogg Dairy Center Focuses on Management and Applied Research By Mike Rogers Successful dairy farmers in the future will have to do more than just get maximum produc- tion from their herds. They'll have to "milk" their operation for information ... information on all aspects of their farming operations. Then they'll have to evaluate that information and apply it in a sophisticated man- ner in order to run their farms at top efficiency. Demonstrating some ways that farmers can do just that is An automatic flushing system empties dairy barn waste into a holding one of the goals of the new tank. From there it is pumped to a liquid I solid separator. The liquid goes to a lagoon and is later returned to water tanks or applied as ir- Kellogg Dairy Center located at rigation. Researchers are looking for ways to process the solid waste for reuse as animal bedding. '\ the Kellogg Biological Center in can show that cow's average Kalamazoo County. The center production for the previous was dedicated Aug. 28. seven days. In the future, a John Speicher, MSUdairy Ex- computer will be installed that tension specialist who will will identify each cow as she direct research at the center, enters the parlor. The computer said the facility brings together will then record data on that state-of-the-art dairy production cow without human interven- technology. "We'll be focusing tion. on management research ap- While keeping close track of plied to both the dairy and production is crucial, Speicher cropping aspects of production," said the center will also be do- he said. "It will be applied ing research on all of the inputs research rather than the more in dairying. basic research done on the "Our research is very much campus of Michigan State focused on the dairy and farm University." operation side ... feeding, As might be expected, com- handling and breeding. But puters playa key role in manag- Michigan dairy producers can ing the operation. Each cow's also be thought of as crop pro- ear tag number is entered on a ducers who market their crops MSUspirit is really in evidence among the KBS Dairy Center computer keyboard as the cow through dairy cows, so we have students, faculty and staff. enters the double-six herring- the opportunity here to work Although the A.O. Smith Danes- bone design milking parlor. As tor silo isn't available in Spartan with crop production and get Green, the silo carries the spirited the cow is milked, production levels are automatically mea- (continued on page 29) cheer "Go State" painted in white. sured and a computer display 14 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 FRONT 81. CENTER A vacation for just $2.501 That's the price of tickets in AgriPac's newest fund- raiser: a raffle (license #R4635-23S). Top prizes are a Carribean cruise and a Northern Michigan weekend for two. Other prizes include a 19" color TV, microwave oven, video cassette recorder and 35mm camera. Only MFB members can purchase tickets and the $2.50 donation is a contribution to MFB's political action committee, AgriPae. Tickets are available from members of state and county Young Farmer committees, who are sponsoring the raffle. The drawing will take place at 8 a.m. on Dee. 12 during the AgriPac Breakfast at the MFB annual meeting, Grand Rapids. Mark your calendars for MFB's66th annual meeting, Dec. 10-13 at the Amway Grand Plaza and Grand Center in Grand Rapids. Together WeWin - Farm Bureau" is the theme. Policy development will be the top priority but there will also be a full agenda of recognition activities, keynote speakers, elections and entertainment. The 1986 AFBFannual meeting is set for Jan. 11-16 in Atlanta. Features in- clude development of policies for the nation's largest farm organization, world-renowned speakers, entertainment, an awards program, and a trade show. A brochure describing the various convention packages, including a Caribbean cruise and bus tour to Nashville, is available from county FB secretaries and the MFB Information & Public Relations Division, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Make your reservations early. Agra Land, Inc.'s board of directors and management will recommend to stockholders that substantially all of the company's assets be sold to Mid-States Terminals, Inc., and I or Countrymark, Inc. A meeting is planned for Sept. 27 to con- sider the proposed acquisition. Stockholders received notification of the meeting and details of the sale arrangements in mid-September. The asset purchase and sale agree- ment is contingent upon approval by affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of Agra Land, Ine. Major assets involved include Agra Land's 2.25 million bushel grain terminal on the Saginaw River, fertilizer/farm supply warehouse at Saginaw, 6 million bushel grain termi- nal at Ottawa Lake, feed manufacturing plant at Battle Creek, and 14 retail farm centers. Countrymark was formed in May 1985 upon the merger of Landmark, Ine. of Columbus, Ohio, and The Ohio Farmers Grain and Supply Association of Fostoria, Ohio. October is "Co-op Time" every year. That's when Cooperative Month helps to create a sharper awareness and understanding of what cooperatives are and how cooperatives im- prove our lives. This year's theme is "Building a Better America ... and a Better World." A Co-op Month project planned by the Michigan Association of Farmer Cooperatives will make teaching and study units available to vocational agriculture instructors throughout the state. MSUfans are making Autumnfest an annual tradition. This year's all-Michigan brunch and game will take place Nov. 2, when the Spartans will be meeting the Golden Gophers in East Lansing. Brunch and game ticket purchases can be made by mail. The cost is $22. Brunch-only tickets can be ordered at a cost of $8. Add $ I for postage and handling. The Autumnfest mail order deadline is Oct. 18. Send check or money order, payable to MSU,to: Bob LaPrad, 121 Agriculture Hall, MSU,East Lansing, Mich. 48824-1039. 15 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 • *} \ ^ -* 4r SHOW 4-0 Fair and I'Ilnt Festival: Great Week for Agriculture in Clinton County st. Johns was alive with agri- Thursday and was quickly fol- culture related thoughts and ac- lowed by another big event. tivities the week of Aug. 5. The first-ever Clinton County The week started out with the Mint Festival began on Friday, 4-H fair. Dairy Diplomats were Aug. 9. It was a great communi- there giving samples of cheese ty effort and promoted an im- and ideas for using dairy prod- portant farm product while giv- ucts. The Clinton County Farm. ing visitors and residents alike Bureau was there with a booth, an opportunity to visit and shop and then there were the 4-H'ers in a festive atmosphere. themselves. Clinton County FB was active in both visible and non-visible ways. We had a float in the parade, thanks to Gwen Nash and her 4-H group. Our county president, Don Sisung, rode in the parade in a car driven by RURAL RASCALS - "Fairs, Don Keirn, Farm Bureau Insur- friends and fun all go together," ance Group agency manager. said Paul Wilcox (left), 17, of Many of the mint farmers in the Lowell. With him at the 1985 area are FB members, including Kent County Youth Fair are Chad past county FB president Tom 8lasher (center), 17, and Mike Nugent, 16, also from Lowell. Ir:rer. Tom and Marilyn's daughter, Becky, was selected 1985 Mint Queen. There were scores of activities The entire affair was a positive flop Atop Pop to involve those attending and a promotion for agriculture. special kid's day for the Marsha Brook, Ovid youngsters. The fair ended on Clinton County Does Your Co-op FAKMETTE Represent You? By A ndrea Hofmeister Most people involved in agri- Tuscola County culture would agree that farm marketing cooperatives have been a blessing to farmers. Many have become so large that representatives to boards must be elected to speak for mem- bers. Employees must also be hired to run the cooperatives and make important day to day decisions and recommendations to those boards. Co-ops often With a crowd of a quarter-million hire lobbyists, fund Political Ac- people, seeing the Cherry tion Committees, and generally Festival Parade in Traverse City wasn't easy for little rascals, but speak for members in the halls this pyramid helped. Atop his of Congress. pop (MF8 northwest regional rep- When wielding such influence, resentative Andrew Ferdinand) is whose welfare is at the top of Nicholas, 4, while his sister, "Mom told me that she was a 8ethany Ann, 2, sits atop grand- (continued on page .30) pop (Arthur Ferdinand of Grosse kid once, but until this mo- Pointe Farms). ment, I never believed her!" 18 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 Good Ideas Get Better When They're Shared Akona - Sept. 29 Mackinac-Luce - Oct. 15 Allegan - Oct. 8 Macomb - Oct. 10 Alpena - Oct. 10 Manistee - Oct. 21 Antrim - Oct. 9 Mason - Oct. 1 Arenac - Oct. 14 Mecosta - Oct. 7 Barry - Oct. 17 Menominee - Oct. 9 Benzie - Oct. 7 . Midland - Oct. 1 Berrien - Nov. 1 Missaukee - Oct. 1 Calhoun - Oct. 1 Montcalm - Oct. 24 Cass - Oct. 7 Montmorency - Oct. 10 Charlevoix - Oct. 2 Muskegon - Oct. 19 Cheboygan - Oct. 15 Newaygo - Oct. 10 Chippewa - Oct. 14 Northwest Michigan - Oct. 9 Clare - Oct. 24 Oakland - Oct . .3 Copper Country - Oct. 10 Oceana - Oct. 21 Eaton - Oct. 5 Ogemaw - Oct. 24 Emmet - Oct. 14 Osceola - Oct. 15 Genesee - Oct. 8 Otsego - Oct . .3 Gladwin - Oct. 1 Ottawa - Oct. 10 Hiawathaland - Oct. 8 Presque Isle - Oct. 8 Huron - Sept. 26 Saginaw - Oct . .3 Ingham - Oct. 5 St. Joseph - Oct 26 Ionia - Oct. 7 Shiawassee - Oct. 12 losco - Oct. 2.3 Van Buren - Oct. 24 Iron Range - Oct. 12 Washtenaw - Sept. 27 Isabella - Oct. 16 Wayne - Oct. 8 Jackson - Sept. 26 Wexford - Oct. 8 Kalamazoo - Oct. 8 Kalkaska - Oct. 28 Counties not listed Lapeer - Oct . .3 have already held their Livingston - Sept. 26 1985 annual meeting Attend Your County Annual Meeting Contact your county Farm Bureau secretary for more information The Encorel The inaugural Cherry Bowl between Michigan State Univer- sity and the U.S. Military Academy was a "90 day wonder" that delighted Michi- gan football fans and impressed the collegiate football world. Organizers and supporters from all segments of the state's business community pulled to- gether to carry off the most successful inaugural effort for a post season collegiate football game. When NCAA officials gave the go ahead for the event in late August 1984, the Michigan week events, including the "We're making it bigger and Cherry Bowl was off the drawing Cherry Bowl Awards Dinner. In better by planning more activi- board and ready for the grid- addition, the committee has ex- ties, more excitement, more iron. By Dee. 22, 1984, more tended its ticket commitment sponsors and by attracting an than 70,000 fans responded to to 5,000. overflow crowd to Pontiac on the invitation to be part of the Also a new specialty promo- Dee. 21 for this year's event," state's first collegiate bowl tion item, the "Cherry Bowl said Frank "Muddy" Waters, ex- game. Sampler" of Michigan cherry ecutive director of Cherry Bowl, Among the biggest fans of products, will be offered in a Ine. the event were the idea origina- gift pack. The first plan of action under- tors - members of the Michi- "The cherry industry believes taken by Waters and his staff gan Cherry Committee. This that the com bined efforts of the was to expand corporate spon- year Michigan's cherry growers sponsor group, the special in- sorship and game week activi- are taking an even greater in- terest people of the greater ties. Before the summer ended, terest in Cherry Bowl II. Detroit/ Pontiac area and out- their efforts had more than According to Harry Foster, ex- state, along with the Michigan doubled sponsor participation, ecutive secretary for the com- Cherry Committee, can build and the number of Cherry Bowl mittee, the cherry industry will the Cherry Bowl and its related sponsors could triple before the be playing a more visible role in activities into a cherry and first Michigan snow flies. promotion and sponsorship. agricultural showcase as well as But perhaps the most impor- The Michigan Cherry Committee a very successful post-season tant measuring stick of any has declared sponsorship and collegiate football game," post season collegiate bowl co-sponsorship for several bowl Foster said. So what's being planned for (continued on page 28) Cherry Bowl II? 20 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 CES Resources Target Regaining Profitability for Michigan Agriculture By Connie Turbin ment consultation services of In addition, a series of video- the EMAT teams. tapes and audio cassettes is be- A unique outreach program "We're concerned that farm- ing developed to provide infor- utilizing MSUExtension special- ers are not asking for manage- mation and assistance to ists in agricultural production, ment analysis by EMATs be- families on topics such as the economics and family life that cause there is a misconception decision making process, prob- has provided support and that teams are only for farms in lem solving, blame and shame recommendations to over 200 financial trouble. Analysis and behaviors, and family strengths. farm fam i1ies was initiated in recommendations by the teams The Extension Service is also January 1985. Now project has always been available to examining the feasibility of a leaders have announced that anyone who wanted to check series of seminars focusing on the Extension management as- out the economic health of the production and economic sistance team (EMAT)concept their farming operation or farm complexities of commercial ag- will be continued under the related business," Brewer said. ricultural operations, Brewer theme "regaining profitability "We are in a position to provide said. "We hope to bring in na- for Michigan agriculture." analysis and recommendations tionally recognized resource Profitability is the pivotal to any commercial farmer that persons to provide the most up word in the fall and winter pro- will improve profitability for to date, usable information on gram, explained Frank Brewer, that operation, regardless of its computers, accounting, estate assistant Extension director for size or complexity." planning, financial manage- agricultural and marketing pro- There is no charge for the ment, decision making and grams. The thrust of the "consulting" services of the marketing." 1985-86 program is to reaffirm EMATs, but Brewer estimates the Extension Service's commit- that the analysis and recom- ment to all of agriculture and to mendations would have a pri- help producers improve their vate industry price tag from Tree Ripened economic decision making. $1,500 to $3,500. In the initial phase of the Assistance teams will con- Florida Farm Bureau EMAT program, Extension re- tinue to be a key component in members pick the best sources and personnel focused the fall and winter program, but of their crop for you. on responding to the farm there will be more "tools" for financial crisis. The program team members and farmers to Look for details in the was also a part of the statewide use. According to Brewer, three November issue of agricultural assistance program microcomputer software pack- , Rural Living. ~, announced by Gov. James Blan- ages are available now for farm .:¥;" Mark your calendar. chard. Referrals to EMAT came operators: Telplan '80 which '~~'~ Order deadline through the Michigan Depart- provides a complete farm analy- I to county ment of Agriculture hotline as sis of cash flow and production 111'1 FB's IS i'lt, well. as those initiated through decisions; a lease cost/ ratio ~ ') Nov. 20th. the county Extension Service by analysis; and fertilizer applica- y-... individual farm families. tion program. ~ "There was a critical problem Seventeen additional software last winter," Brewer said. "An packages are being developed immediate, expert response was and will be available to farmers needed for some Michigan farm and farm businesses over the families and EMATs provided next nine months. The pro- that response." But, he added, grams range from production emphasis on the "assistance and cost analysis programs for team" approach has given the dairy, beef, sheep and swine to EMAT program a "crisis" image. a nutrition spot check for farm "That's keeping away a seg- families. Cost for the software ment of Michigan agriculture programs is not expected to ex- that could really benefit from ceed $20 each. the production and manage- RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 21 Contributions Support 4-0 for Youth of America By Janice Child gan State University. They wanted to support 4-H youth The telephone company en- programs through an organiza- courages us to "reach out and tion that could serve as a vehi- touch someone." That's good cle for private sector gifts and advice. Not only does it make contributions. us feel good to keep in contact In Michigan, the 4-H program with the people we love; it serves over 200,000 young peo- makes sense for us to "reach ple. Because of its grassroots out and touch" those who direction, each county program might benefit from our help. reflects local needs and in- We feel good, too, when we terests. demonstrate our willingness to "The dollars that we receive lend a hand through our in- are used almost entirely for pro- National 4-H Week, dividual financial contributions grams," said Jost. "Each year to charitable organizations. Ac- we devote contributions to Oct. 6-12, is a good cording to recent statistics, sponsor 4-H volunteer leader time to focus our help in the form of donations to workshops, to programs for thoughts on the charitable groups in the U.S. handicappers, to innovative totaled over $74 billion in 198.3. programs developed by county many ways 4-H pro- But sometimes it's not possi- 4-H organizations, and to many grams touch the ble to give as much as you'd other educational programs - lives of young peo- like. Deciding on an organiza- like our nutrition education pro- tion to receive your contribu- gram. ple and the help a tion can be difficult, too. "The 4-H experience touches contribution to the Don Jost, executive director our young people in cities, Michigan 4-H Foun- of the Michigan 4-H Foundation, towns and rural areas through- dation can give. hopes that when the people of out the state. We try to provide Michigan are considering a gift them with educational experi- to a non-profit organization, ences that supplement those they will think of the Michigan they receive in school," he said. 4-H Foundation. "Since we are affiliated with National 4-H Week, Oct. 6-12, the university and rely heavily is a good time to focus our on volunteers in the counties, thoughts on the many ways 4-H we are able to tap into the programs touch the lives of knowledge and skills of some young people, and the help a very talented, very aware in- contribution to the foundation dividuals who share our con- can give. cern that the programs we sponsor be informative, up-to- Dead, Dearl, Dands, Dealth date and useful." The foundation is a public, (continued on page 30) not-for-profit corporation estab- lished in 1952 by business peo- ple and educators from Michi- 22 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 United Voice Myth 2 - A II farmers are com- "Corporate ownership is well (continued from page 11) plainers and radicals. under 3%, probably closer to "The tragedy part is fairly ob- ''I'd say the exact opposite is 2%. Instead of worrying about vious," Thatcher said. "Hun- true," Thatcher said. "Farmers corporations, maybe we ought dreds, even thousands, of farm- tend to be eternal optimists. to be taking a look at vertical ers are in the process of being They tend to blame themselves integration." uprooted and being forced to more than they should." Myth 8 - We're running out of start over. It's important for us Myth 3 - All farmers are go- land and we're all going to be to help the people who are los- ing broke. hungry soon. ing their farms to understand "According to USDAstatis- "We only need to look at what that while it's awful tough, it tics, four out of five farmers are we're doing in the] 985 farm doesn't make them a failure. in relatively good financial bill with reauthorizing set- "General Grant failed in farm- shape, and the story we need to asides and paid land diversions ing, failed in business, and failed tell is not that all farmers are and for the first time, putting in as a president. And yet, he's going broke, but that even place a 25 million acre conser- given and deserves most of the those that are in relatively good vation reserve. Don't be fooled credit for the North winning the financial shape can't stay that - it's not all for conservation Civil War," she said. "Look at way if prices remain where they purposes. Part of it's to make President Harry Truman - he are." . sure that we don't end up with Myth 4 - The situation we're those same price depressing failed in farming, failed in busi- facing right now is all the surpluses that we've had in the ness, and he was a pretty good farmer's fault. past." senator and he'll probably go "1 grant you that we had Myth 9 - All farmers are sub- down in history as one of our some land speculators, but in sidized. greatest presidents." general, most of the farmers "In this country we produce Thatcher said the humor is in who bought land did it because about 300 commodities. Some the stories that farmers are tell- they needed to expand. A lot ex- of them have government sup- ing each other. "1 think it's ad- panded in order that sons and ports but by far the largest ma- mirable that they can keep their daughters could come back jority of the crops have no kind sense of humor at times like we home and farm - a worthy of government support. Most have now." cause if only the timing had farmers realize that we've got to She then related several been a little better." move away from that govern- myths about agriculture that Myth 5 - None of the prob- ment support and move toward she frequently hears in Wash- lems we have now are the a market-oriented agriculture if ington, D.C. farmer's fault. we hope to be able to get agri- Myth 1- The public can get "1 wonder if we can think culture prosperous again. the facts from the media. realistically that a cash grain "Right now we export 50% of "Probably the best example I farmer can plan to own all the our wheat, 50% of our cotton, can give is the recent '20/20' land he can farm with modern almost 50% of our soybeans, episode where they essentially machinery. In that sense I think 33% of our rice, and 25% of our said that the farm situation had there are farmers who let ma- corn. Whether we like it or not, turned farmers into neo Nazis. chinery expenses and other ex- we operate in a world market, They interviewed four or five penses get out of line in the and we don't have much choice farmers who were admirers of last few years." but to continue to operate in Hitler's deeds and were haters Myth 6 - Small farmers are that world market." of Jews. The program projected disappearing. Myth 10 - Agriculture is the image that this was the "Really, it's just the opposite. fragmented organizationally so mentality of all farmers in this Most of the small farmers have much that Congress doesn't country who are in financial gotten either part-time or full- know which way to turn to help trouble. time jobs. Because of that, us out. "You and I know that those they're able to stay on the farm. "Of all the farmers in this kind of people represent only a The farms that are really going country who belong to any or- handful, but it's that kind of out of business and really dis- ganization, a higher percent misrepresentation that makes it appearing are the middle size belong to Farm Bureau than the even more im portant for us to farms and the larger end of the percent of organized labor that go out and tell our own story." middle size farms." belongs to the AFL-CIO. If we Myth 7 - The corporations (continued on page 3D) are taking over. L----------~-----------------------2~.3;1 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 AGRINOMIC UPDATE Check-off Programs Contribute to Commodity Research and Promotion For the last 20 years, bombarded with food product Over the last few months, sev- Michigan crop and livestock advertisements, the vast majori- eral commissions and commit- producers have had opportun- ty of which are branded product tees have either been organized ities to vote for and financially ads. Non-brand advertising paid or faced the challenge of a support commodity check-off for by a state commodity com- referendum. Currently, Michi- programs. Such programs, ad- mittee or commission cuts gan blueberry growers are ministered by commodity com- across the branded products, voting for organization under missions and committees, are concentrating on the commodi- P.A. 232. Corn growers recently established through P.A. 232 or ty rather than the product. defeated the same type of plan. can be created through sepa- Committees and commissions In the. potato referendum held rate legislation. also playa significant role in this summer, producers were P.A. 232 was adopted in 1965 funding research and product divided, but balloting supported and became effective in 1966. development. Producers, through continuation of the Potato Com- Since that time agricultural pro- their commodity check-off pro- mission. A small group of mint ducers have utilized this legisla- grams, are major contributors growers voted in favor of a Mint tion to establish committees for to ongoing and specialized Committee and check-off plan. apples, asparagus, cherries, research projects. Through the policy develop- milk, onions, plums, soybeans, These various activities are ment process, MFB members special fed veal, mint and red administered by commodity have expressed their support tart cherries. Producers of beef, committee members, who are for producer check-off pro- potatoes and dry edible beans appointed by the governor. grams as long as the majority supported statutory legislation Each commission or committee of producers producing the allowing for the existence of uses a nomination procedure commodity favor the creation of these three commissions. for selecting candidates for a commission or committee. The purpose for commodity gubernatorial appointment. Farm Bill '85 legislation being check-off programs is to pro- While producers comprise all or debated by the House Ag Com- vide research and promotional most of the appointees to these mittee calls for a check-off of funds which directly aid pro- commissions and committees, three-tenths of a cent per ducers. The theory is that non- some members are appointed pound for hogs and $1.00 per brand advertising and promo- to represent related agribusi- head for cattle, without prior tion goes a long way toward nesses or agricultural groups. producer approval. Under this arousing and maintaining con- Appointments are for a specific plan producers would be al- sumer interest in a particular period of time with a revolving lowed to vote for continuation commodity. Such promotional system which allows new ap- (continued on page 28) activities take place in a con- pointments to be made every sumer market that has been several years. 24 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 MFB Defense Fund Monies to Support Appeal of Jones' Kight to Farm Case The Michigan Farm Bureau, said. "The decision rendered by to the extent that it receives through its Legal Defense Fund, the appellate court will be the donations by Farm Bureau has taken action to provide first decision to establish a members and/ or sympathetic financial support to St. Joseph statewide precedent on the act. agricultural businesses or County hog producers Olin and Therefore, it is important to groups. Timothy Jones in their appeal every farmer in Michigan. of a circuit court decision which "If the trial court's decision in "permanently enjoined" the this test of the Right to Farm farm partners from "operating a Act is upheld, then testimony II Agriculture's hog feedlot operation on the provided by industry experts commitment to property. " will be meaningless in defend- The decision to provide a con~ ing the actions of any farmer tbe Rigbt t~ Farm tribution of up to $2,000 for the who contends he is using 'gen- Act must be purchase of the trial transcript erally accepted agricultural and was made on the recommenda- management practices,'" demonstrated by tion of the MFB Agricultural warned Gaskill. "If that hap- our support of Labor Advisory Committee, pens, the effectiveness of the after a 45-minute conference Right to Farm Act in its present tbis appeal. II call with Olin Jones and his at- form would be substantially im- torneys. The trial transcript is paired." used to establish the basis for To date, $1,000 has been con- "There is a need to rebuild the appeal. tributed to the Jones' case, with the fund so that Michigan agri- According to Ron Gaskill, MFB an additional $2,000 promised culture can continue to provide local affairs and labor special- if Jones moves forward with the financial support in these ist, facts supporting the com- appeal. According to Gaskill, precedent-setting legal chal- mittee's recommendation in- producers such as Jones may lenges to our industry," he said. clude: feel the case has been decided The MFB Legal Defense Fund ac- -The court erred in inter- for them by the anticipation of cepts general contributions in preting the testimony given by the legal costs that are beyond any amount, however, it is an acknowledged expert in the their reach as individuals. possible for donors to the fund production of swine and, there- Since 1982, Gaskill said, the to designate their contribution fore, substantially misinter- MFB Legal Defense Fund has for a specific case. preted the Michigan Right to considered nine requests for Farmers who wish to show Farm Act. financial assistance from FB support for the Right to Farm -The party bringing suit (the members. The MFB Agricultural Act can make a contribution to village of Mendon) against Olin Labor Advisory Committee, the Olin Jones appeal case by and Timothy Jones was not the which administers the fund, mailing their check or money proper party and, therefore, the granted financial support total- order contribution (payable to case was not properly before ing $12,500 for five of those re- the MFB Legal Defense Fund) to the court. quests. Actual and estimated MFB Legal Defense Fund, c/o -The court, without reason, legal costs in all five cases are Michigan Farm Bureau, P.O. Box dism issed testimony vital to the expected to exceed $105,000. 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. Jones' successful defense and, "These requests for financial Such a designated contribution therefore, erred in establishing assistance, including the Jones should be clearly marked. the use of the farm prior to its request, have been considered General (undesignated) contri- use by the Jones. very carefully because the fund butions will be credited to the "Agriculture's commitment to does not have extensive re- fund. the Michigan Right to Farm Act sources," Gaskill said. The MFB must be demonstrated by our Legal Defense Fund, which was support in this appeaL" Gaskill established in 1978, is able to make such contributions only 25 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 The Discussion Topic is used by Community Ac- tion Groups for monthly polley discussions. Rebuilding Michigan's Infrastructure The word "infrastructure" is and 60s. Hundreds of bridges, Groups Examine an uncommon word to many. county and local roads also State's Infrastructure Webster defines it as "the need repair. In late 1983, Gov. Blanchard underlying foundation or basic Repairs are also needed on appointed a 70-member Michi- framework" or "the permanent water drainage and sewer sys- gan Infrastructure Coalition. installations required for tems. In some areas of the Robert E. Smith, senior legisla- military purposes:' The latin state, water contamination is tive counsel for Michigan Farm "infra" means "below, under, also a problem. Solid and toxic Bureau, was the only person beneath, underneath" a system waste facilities are needed as representing agriculture. or organization. welI as prisons, college and A "Public Investment" Coor- These definitions still don't school repairs. And the list goes dination Task Force was also fully explain what is really on and on. appointed. It consists of the meant by "Michigan's infra- directors of 12 state depart- structure." Perhaps it could be ments: agriculture, commerce, said that "it's a problem under- corrections, education, labor, foot." For this discussion, it's a INFRASTRUCTURE: management and budget, men- one-word description for "public WUAT DOES IT MEAN? tal health, military affairs, investment" in all the things natural resources, public that make a society operate. Broadly defined, infra- health, transportation and Communications facilities structure includes but is treasury. Additional members and utilities are also part of the not limited to: include representatives from infrastruc.ture but are not in- - Highways (interstate, state, the governor's office, Senate cluded because they do not in- county, local bridges) and House fiscal agencies, Ener- volve significant state capital - Public transportation gy Administration and State investment. -Railroads Housing Development Authori- -Airports ty. Repairs, - Ports The purpose of the two Replacements Delayed -Solid waste facilities groups was to determine, for Nationwide, much of our in- -Toxic and hazardous waste the first time, exactly what frastructure is wearing out . cleanup federal and state projects are Repairs and maintenance have • Wastewater treatment plants. ongoing within the state; been delayed for many reasons. -Storm and sanitary sewers develop a computerized system But it's like the barn roof that's - Land drainage systems where such information can be not maintained or kept in re- - Municipal water supply found in one place; determine pair. It soon becomes a struc- facilities Michigan's infrastructure needs; tural problem costing much -State-owned buildings of identify a sound management more. alI types system for rebuilding; create The Congressional Budget Of- -Correction facilities and finance methods; develop a 5 to fice states that from 1960 to prisons 10 year plan with annual capital 1980 investment in seven key - Public mental health and budgets; and coordinate prior- infrastructure systems felI by public health facilities ities between state depart- more than 40%. In 1980, Michi- and hospitals ments. gan ranked 40th among the -State parks and water Heavy emphasis was placed states in per capita investment access facilities on ways to work with local gov- in infrastructure systems. -Schools, colleges and ernments in their rebuilding ef- The life of a freeway is 20 to universities fort. 25 years and much of Michigan's -Economic development system was built in the 1950s where the state or federal government expends funds 26 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER J985 FB Testimony Stresses financing methods, and creat- Discussion Questions Effect on Ag Economy ing annual capital budgets.) -"Infrastructure bond fund" -What are the infrastructure In the fallof 1984 a prelimi- needs in your area? nary report was ready for public which could lend money to local units at lower interest. - 00 you think private business hearings. Seven were held -"Privatization" involving the should build and/or run public throughout the state. MFB's facilities? Robert Smith testifiedat the purchase and/ or management of public facilitiesby private -Could your local governments hearings in Warren (Macomb work together to provide need- County) and Grand Rapids. business and public leasing of private facilitiesand shared ed facilitieswithout duplica- His testimony dealt with how tion? "infrastructure" applies to savings/ risk financing. Michigan's agriculture and - Local government coalitions forestry economies. Emphasis to determine needs and cooper- was placed on the need for ade- ative methods to meet them. co.op-er.a.tive/ quate transportation (roads, -Information and education bridges, railand water), good programs on new products and la: it'san adjective public drainage, adequate and processes developed by the pri- clean water, proper solid and vate sector for repair, replace- b: it'sa noun 2: it's toxic waste disposal. He also ment and construction. something special stressed other public services -"User rates" and budgets for needed in rural areas such as public services to include actual for 60,000,000 schools, hospitals, police and maintenance, repair and limited people from fireprotection, ambulances, replacement costs. hospitals, prisons, soil conser- The section on agriculture coast to coast vation and ag research, includ- ing veterinary science and fund- states in part: "Agriculture is a diverse ac- T means ha t something special 40,000 member- ing of the MOA's ag services. tivitywhich includes produc- tion, processing, transporta- owned cooperatives through- FB's testimony highlighted out the United States devoted the need for good county and tion, and marketing of food and to serving their members and local roads and bridges, point- forest products, and protection communities inevery way imag- ing out that all production in- of our natural resources. inable. puts must travel on local roads "Criticalneeds include an effi- The cooperative way of con- to the farm and allgoods pro- cient transportation system, an ducting business has proven over duced must travel local roads assured energy supply, suffi- and over again to be both a to the processor, elevators, etc., cient clean water, soil properly highly efficientand extremely and finallyto the consumer. conserved, good public drain- economical way toprovide ser- Data showed the importance age systems, and proper waste vices and goods. That's why co- of agriculture and forestry to disposal methods." ops come in every sizeand kind the entire economy of the state, Task force proposals called and are found in the city,the and the steady increase in pro- for cooperation between the de- suburbs and rural America. duction as well as movement of partments of agriculture, trans- No matter whether you think grain production into the north- portation and natural resources of cooperative as a noun or an ern counties, including many on transportation for the agri- adjective, it means the same where crops had never been cultural and forestry industries. thing - people working together grown. Additional recommendations tomeet common needs to benefit include: their entire communities. And Over 150 people testifiedat co-op people are proud of their the hearings resulting in 1,300 - Funding to construct a new veterinary science building and track record because better pages of transcript. These ideas communities mean a better were incorporated in the final update the veterinary science college at MSU. America for everyone. report called "From Crises to Opportunity - Rebuilding Mich- -Sufficient funding for opera- COOPERATIVES -- ...... tion of the MOA and its labora- igan's Infrastructure." ~ ....-- -- tory. Recommendations -A detailed forest inventory, - - ~~ ~~ ~1*~PI( on Infrastructure including forested agricultural land. General recommendations in- The recommendations are very eluded: close to FB's policies and testi- •Five-step strategy (data mony. BUILDING A BETTER AMERICA base, needs surveys, 5 to 10 ...and a BETTER WORLD year budget process, various _RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 27 Agrinomic Update there are others in this state Cherry Bowl II that operate on voluntary (continued from page 20) (continued from page 24) funding. The two most notable only after the check-off pro- are the Michigan Pork Producers game is enthusiastic fan par- gram has been in use two years. Association and the voluntary ticipation. Rallying an overflow Clearly MFB policy is in opposi- effort by sugar growers to fund crowd into the Silverdome's tion to this "cart-before-the- advertising. perfect 72 degree climate for horse" approach. The following is the per unit game day activities is the Total expected revenue from check-off amount for each com- challenge of Cherry Bowl II. commodities organized under mittee and commission: The indoor facility seats P.A. 232 or their own statute is 80,000 fans. While 1984 re- expected to be between $8 mil- Beef - .010/0 of gross receipts sponse was excellent for an in- lion and $10 million for fiscal Special Fed Veal - .010/0 of augural event, success this year year 1985. These funds have gross recei pts will be measured by attracting contributed significantly to the Dry Edible Beans - 5et/ cwt. at least 10,000 more fans. To development and maintenance by producers; 1et/ cwt. by do that, a million-piece direct of outlets for producer products shippers mail ticket application was in Michigan. Blueberries - Organizational mailed in September. Print It is critical to producers to vote is pending. If passed, media advertising was placed in maintain a razor's edge in prod- they are expected to ask for selected publications, including uct promotion and research. .8et/lb. Rural Living. This is clearly not a program Fresh Apples - ISet/ cwt. Putting ticket applications in that will work for all crop or plus 1etfor research the hands of fans goes a long livestock producers. However, it Processing Apples - 12et/ way for convenience, but the has served many Michigan- cwt. plus 1et for research motivation for 80,000 plus peo- grown commodities very well. Juice Apples - 5et/ cwt. ple to fill out the form and send In addition to the check-off plus 1etfor research their money will come from the programs mandated by law, Asparagus - $IO/ton line-up of pre-game and game Cherries - $IO/ton events. Ked Tart Cherries - currently Cherry Bowl II promises top $3.S0/ton for information notch collegiate football com- ~FIl\TES~ program Milk - 1oet/ cwt. state, 5et/ cwt. petition, fun and pageantry with an $80,000 half-time show PECANS! national featuring top name entertainers • For FUND RAISING Onions - 2et/50 lb. bag like Doc Severinson, and two of • For BUSINESSGIFTS Plums - $2.50/ton the best college football teams • For PERSONAL USE Mint - Not yet established, ex- in the nation competing for the pected to be 2 to 4et/ lb. fourth largest purse in college Potatoes - I.Set/ cwt. plus 1et bowl games. from the shipper Michigan's Cherry Bowl offers so much holiday excitement it's Most farmer members of Farm practically a Michigan Christ- Bureau are subject to the provi- Meaty, flavorful new crop pecans, all mas party. Cherry Bowl Week picked with care from our Georgia sions of the Agricultural Com- groves, processed and shipped fresh festivities in and around the from our spotless plant. modities Marketing Act, and ap- Silverdome include a 2,400 per- ACE PECANis your direct source for a proximately 20,000 pay fees complete variety of nutmeats- son Michigan Brunch with both walnuts, pistachios. almonds, cashews. under P.A. 232 programs. Sever- brazils and mixed nuts.There is nothing teams participating. in your local grocery store that com- al thousand FB members also pares in size. quality and just-picked What's a party without music? are subject to check-off provi- freshness! This holiday party will feature a WRITE FOR FREEINFORMATION! sions of the three commissions Motown review with the Four Brochure. Wholesale Prices. "How To which operate under separate Sell" Brochure. and SAMPLE OFFER. Tops and the Ternptations the Learn how organizations profit with enabling laws. our fund-raising program! night before the game. Area at- tractions and a variety of tours are also planned for team mem- bers and visitors. Free 88-pg. catalog of sausage-making supplies Ninth and Harris Street with cures, seasonings, spices, equipment. You can Dept. 887 cure and smoke meat. game. fowl, fish. Includes P.O. Box 65 info on a new, illustrated, 500-pg. book with 200 Cordele, Georgia 31015 recipes. Join 100,000 satisfied customers. Call TOll FREE1-800-323-0775 THE SAUSAGE MAKER Dept. 887 177-198A Military Rd. Buffalo, N.Y. 14207 28 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 Kellogg Dairy Center ience to students. "We've felt Their oldest son, Ron, manages (continued from page 14) the need for this for a long the operation but often gets ad- time, since 70% of our animal vice, along with help with the more information on yields and science students are not from chores, from his father. There's lower cost production." farms," he said. time for afternoon talks with Another important aspect of the research at the center will visiting children and grand- be on monitoring and prevent- children. ing the runoff of animal wastes But there's still work to be into a nearby lake. Runoff from Ball of Fame done. Late each afternoon the barn goes into a settling Stanley gets his rubber knee (continued from page 13) boots on and heads for the basin, via ditches, which allows fitting that you receive recogni- barn, and it's time for Eleanor absorption of damaging nutri- tion for your devotion to agri- to start supper. ents before the water reaches business." That's the way it is with a the lake. That battle was fought in partnership. "We sit in an area of the state 1977 and 1978 when, after a that has recreation, agriculture 1985 Hall of Fame Inductees "war" with the health depart- and homes," Speicher said. "We ment - waged mostly in the Other farm couples inducted have a real opportunity to show news media, the state Legisla- into the Michigan Farmers' Hall how a dairy farm fits in the ture passed the bill that makes of Fame on Aug . .30 were: total environment. Food pro- it possible for potlucks, smor- • Raymond and Ruth Walton duction is part of the environ- gasbords and homemade pie Allegan County ment too." sales to continue without health .Carl and Edith Grashuis, Barry Energy and labor efficiency is department interference. County (and posthumously, the focus of much of the rest of Eleanor declares that she's Carl's first wife, Imogene) the research that will be done not a public person but when it .John and Carolyn Brecheisen at the center. For example, cool came to protecting the potluck, Branch County well water is warmed by the pies and Ionia County FB's an- • Elmer and Ruth Heisler Sr. heat of the milk in a heat ex- nual fund-raising smorgasbord, Calhoun County changer. The water warmed by she put her fears aside and • Howard and Beulah McKenzie the milk is pumped to cattle took action. As Stanley said at Cass County waterers (keeping them ice-free the time: "This is my wife's bat- • Verne and Beatrice Wenger in the winter) while the partially tle - I'm just introducing the Kent County cooled milk is sent on its way to bills in Lansing." • R. W. and Ruth Petersen refrigerated tanks. Excess heat During the many years that Montcalm County from the refrigerator compres- Stanley was in the spotlight, • Harry and Myrtle Oxender sors is used to warm water to Eleanor stayed home to raise St. Joseph County be used for washing and sanitiz- their four children. But being a • Max and Evelyn Harris, ing the milk parlor. busy mother and farm wife Van Buren County An automatic flushing system didn't keep her from becoming eliminates the need to manually involved in many local organi- scrape the floors of the barn. zations, including her FB Com- Your Florida vacation home is waiting for you at Water from tanks at the top of munity Group, the Ionia County the sloped floor washes the ORANGE MANOR FB Women's Committee, the MOBILE HOME PARK manure down to a collection Michigan State Grange, 4-H, the -All adult, 4D-plus environment -Recrea- channel. The manure then goes PTA and the Ionia First Baptist tional clubhouses -Fishing lake with pier to a holding tank and is pumped -Two swimming pools -16 shuffleboard Church. to a liquid/solid separator. The Last spring, her many hours courts -Located just two miles south of Cypress Gardens liquid is pumped to a lagoon of devotion to Farm Bureau where it can later be returned projects were recognized when For more information call or write: Orange Manor Mobile Home Park to water tanks or applied as ir- the District 4 FB Women named 18 Kinsmen Drive rigation. Research is being done her Outstanding Farm Bureau Winter Haven, FL 33880 to make it possible to process Woman for 1984. 813-324-4968 the solid waste and reuse it as While they have spent most of Please send me more information on bedding. their lives bettering their in- Orange Manor Mobile Home Park. Speicher said an additional dustry, the pace at Stanley and purpose of the facility.will be to Eleanor's home is slower now. Addre~~ provide hands-on dairy exper- City State Zip Phone(---l Rll0/85 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 29 I I United Voice Charitable donors find life in- of many of our young people (continued from page 23) surance to be an affordable and make a better future for means of giving, too. "Life in- Michigan. take up the memberships of all surance provides an amplified the other general farm organi- gift," Fitzsimmons said. "It can Janice Child is editor of zations and we total those be purchased on an installment Crossroads, a monthly publlca- together and we triple it, you plan, and through a relatively tion for Farm Bureau Insurance still don't get Farm Bureau's small annual premium cost - agents. membership," Thatcher said. which is tax deductible - the "The protest organizations donor can provide the charity are vocal and because they are with a substantial benefit. With vocal it always seems like life insurance, the donor can Rural Exchange there's more of them than there make a large gift without im- (continued from page 18) really are, but certainly in pairing savings or investment programs. the co-op priority list? Is it the Washington and certainly in "With life insurance the pro- well-being of the individual Michigan and in most other ceeds can be received by the farmer members or that of the states, Farm Bureau is viewed designated charity free of feder- cooperative itself, the outfit as the voice of responsible al income and estate taxes, pro- that pays out per diems and farmers and of responsible bate and administrative costs salaries? agriculture. " and delays, brokerage fees, and A real danger exists today in other costs. This prompt pay- that the cooperative appears to ment favorably compares with be replacing the farmer as the the payment of a gift to a chari- most important entity in at least one area of agricu.1ture - Support 4-0 ty under the terms of an in- dairying. dividual will. With a bequest, (continued from page 22) The House Agriculture Com- probate delays can stretch in- definitely. mittee has approved a dairy bill Contributors to Michigan 4-H "Finally," Fitzsimmons said, which contains several producer can decide how their contribu- "life insurance is a self-complet- assessments. tion is to be used. The founda- ing gift. Cash values grow from Cooperatives like an assess- tion, like other charitable or- year to year. If the donor ment bill because they sell ganizations, welcomes gifts of becomes disabled, the policy manufactured products to the money, land, securities, be- will remain in full force through government at the support quests from wills, distributions the disability premium waiver. price (no sacrifice there). from trusts, and life insurance Or should death occur after Government likes an assess- policies. only a few deposits, the charity ment bill because it doesn't Life Insurance - is ass.ured of its full gift." cost the CCC anything (no Affordable Giving sacrifice there). Reaching Out Dairy farmers do not like Designating a charitable assessment legislation because organization, such as the 4-H Throughout the years, 4-H they are required by law to buy Foundation, to be the benefi- programs have touched many and pay for something they ciary of a life insurance policy of our lives, providing fun and never receive. is one method of giving that is educational experiences for Delegates to the AFBF 1985 easy and affordable. young people and for the many annual meeting stated: "We op- "One of the main reasons why thousands of people who vol un- pose any assessment of pro- life insurance is a good choice teer their time and energy to ducers by the federal govern- is that the death benefit going make this program work. ment as part of any future dairy to the charity is guaranteed as Making a contribution to the legislation." long as the premiums are paid," 4-H Foundation is one way to Your congressman will get said Tom Fitzsimmons, training "reach out and touch" the lives bombarded with a "lobbying specialist for Farm Bureau In- overload." He wants to know surance Group. "This means what YOU think about dairy that the charity will receive an legislation and the 1985 farm amount that is fixed in value bill. Let him know today. and not subject to the risks to Cooperatives and government which securities are exposed." should work for the farmers they represent. Not vice versa. Marsha Wilcox, Lowell Kent County .30 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1985 FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE FARM EQUIPMENT MISCELLANEOUS NURSERY STOCK FOR nOMEMAKERS norse-drawn Van Brunt grain drill. Scholarships. thousands available Berry I"lants - Raspberries, strawber- Guardian Sel"Ylceglass coversl Pyrex Wagon wheels. plow. cultivator. manure regardless of income, grades or financial ries. blueberries. currants, gooseberries. and Corning percolator parts. Steven' spreader, hay mower. Phone 517- need. We guarantee college and high others. Free catalog. Makielski Berry son's. Box 3392A. Orange, CA 92665. 743-5115. (10-15p) school students five sources they qualify Nursery. 7130 Platt Road. Dept. RL. Ypsi- (9.4t-15p-ts) for. Most completing our short question- lantI. Mich. 48197. Phone 313-434-3673. Complete Line of l'Iew and Used Irri- naire receive over 20. Send $3 for infor- (11-12t-22p) gation Equipment - Also equipment mative brochure and questionnaire (RE- for manure pumping and spreading by FUNDABLE). Nationwide Scholarship Find- gun. tanker, or injection. Plummer ers, Box 2257, Lynchburg, Virginia 24501. Supply. Inc .. 1-800-632-7731. (9-2t-46p-ts) ( 1-12t-23p) Satellite Antenna Brokers l"Ieeded - CLASSIFIED AD POLICY WAI'ITED:l"I.l. corn picker and l"I.". no experience required. Buy direct from field equipment. Phone 517-523-2803, distributor. Bypass middleman. Whole- evenings. (2-12t-IOp-ts) sale $499. Retail $1. 195. Call day or -Farm Bureau members pay 25 cents per word for all night: 303-636-0663 or write: Antenna, classified advertisements. "og t::qulpment - Del-Air heat ex- P.O. Box 15236. Colorado Springs. Col- changers. Osborne feeders. K.G. John- orado 80935. (2-tfn-33b-ts) -All other advertisers pay 50 cents per word for one insertion son farrowing crates, Chore-Time feed- and 45 cents per word for two or more consecutive insertions ing, Mix-Mill systems. Hamilton Distri- Speclall Rural mailbox flip-up of the same ad. buting Company. 616-751-5161. signals. Tells in a glance if mail has (6'12t-17p-ts) been delivered. Eliminate those un- - All advertisements are subject to a 15-word minimum necessary trips in the rain and snow. charge. including member ads. Grain Dryers - Stormor Ezee-Dry. Farm Ideal Christmas gifts. Money back guar- Fans Automatic. Used Dryers, PTO and - Please indicate if you are a Farm Bureau member. antee. $3.00 each plus 85( postage; or 3 Automatic. Hamilton Distributing Com- for $10 postage paid_ Order yours today. -The deadline for ads is the first Monday of the month pany,616-751-5161. (6-12t-17p-ts) Home Products. 4436 Northington Dr .. preceding publication. Adrian, Mich. 49221. (9-2t-50p) October Special - Free flat washers - All ads must be pre-paid and may be pre-paid up to one your choice(s) 1/4". 5/16". 3/8", Book Salel Hardcovers. $1.00 each! year in advance. 7 / 16". 112". THREE free farm packs Over 400 titles: fiction. western. mys- -It is the responsibility of the advertiser to re-insert the ad on with $50.00 orderl Mail to Hi-Grade Com- tery. Children's series books and pany. 1490 Maplelawn. Wyoming. Mich. _ classics. Glenn Smith. Box 1513. Dept. a month-by-month or year-by-year basis. 49509. (10-27p) F-I O. Akron. OH 44309. (I 0-2t-25p-ts) -The publisher has the right to reject any advertising copy submitted. Want to Buy: Used Waukeshaw diesel Alternate Energy: 2 models of wood engine, 100 horsepower. Also Scarafier burning forced air furnaces. 3 models of -No ads will be taken over the phone. and corn picker. Write R. Krzeminski. wood burning hot water boilers. All with 10305 Charlotte Rd.. Portland. Mich. automatic controls and several other Fill out form below and mail to: 48875. (10-2Ip) features for safety and convenience. Rural Living, P.o. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909 Made In Michigan 8 years by a Farm LIVESTOCK Bureau member for 36 years. Ivan Hunt. Rome Enterprises. Onsted. MI 49265. (10-2t-50p) ------------------------ Name Milking Shorthorn: Young bulls, year- lings and calves for sale. Write or visit DOGS Stanley M. Powell and Family. Ingleside Farm. Route 2. 3248 Powell Hwy .. Ionia. Address Registered English Setters. puppies Mich. 48846. (I 0-4t-27p) and equipment. Trl-colors; orange Beltons; others. Phone 616-263-7779. Dieterle Corrledale sheep. give shear (9-2t-Ilp) pleasure. Breeding stock. Blue ribbon fleeced flock. Spinning Fleece's, phone 313-429-7874 .• (5.12t-15p) OFarm Bureau member ONon-member REAL ESTATE Duroc Boars and Gilts sound and Run the following ad in the issue(s): durable. Delivery available. Jim Catch fish In your very own trout Previch, 8147 Forrister Road. Adrian. stream. I'h acre park-like setting near Mich. 49221. 517-265-4112. Caberfae ski resort. Minutes to Cadillac. (6-12t- 18p) Distinguished 3 bedroom home. 2 baths. brick fireplace with "free heat machine:' I"erformance tested Angus breeding 2'h car garage. $61.500. Terms. Phone stock and crossbred club calves. Rea- 616-389-2274. (10-39p) sonably priced. Delivery available. Bord- ner Angus Farms. Sturgis, Mich. Call "arllngen. Texas. Sunwest Mobile 616-651-8353. (7.6t-20p) nome I"ark. Two fully developed lots with city water. 5609 and 5611 Bamboo Corrledale Sheep: rams and ewes. Circle. $20.000 for both lots. Paul Doty. Registration available. Craig Adams. 5333 Pine Island Dr.. Comstock Park. MI Tekonsha. 517-767.4605. (9-2t-15p) 4932 I. Phone 616-784-1941. (I 0-36p) MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Michigan Farm Bureau 66th Annual Meeting Dec_ 10-13, 1985 Amway Grand Plaza notel • Grand Center Words lnsertions Total Due _ Grand Rapids, Michigan ------------------------ I RURAL LIVING. OCTOBER 1985 31 I WHY OUR FIRST POLICYHOLDER IS STILLWITH US ... ferne furney, a member of the Branch County throughout Michigan/but.we continue to place our farm Bureau, has earned a special place in the major efforts on serving farm Bureau members. history of farm Bureau Insurance Group. You are our prefery-edcustomer,' and w~ strive ~ ferne was our very first policyholder, the to offer the' quality programs and personal service owner of farm Bureau Mutual auto policy #1, you need. issued in 1949. Today, at the age of 83, she is still That's why we are Michigan's largest farm insured with us. insurer ... and why policyholders like ferne furney "for 36 years I've been treated well by farm stay with us so long. Bureau Insurance;' ferne says, "and I believe in staying with a good thing:' Making your future a little more predictable farm Bureau Insurance Group has grown a lot since those early days in 1949 when we offered only one product: auto insurance for farm Bureau FARM BUREAU ~ members. Today we provide a full range of INSURANCE insurance services for 300,000 policyholders GROUP Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine Non-Profit OrganlzCJtlon P.O. Box 30960 U.S. POSTAGe 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy. PAID Lansing, Michigan 48909 Lansing. MlchlgCJI1 Permit No . .37