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Strelinger Co. #74-423 $1.32 31855 Van Dyke, Warren, Michigan 48090 Monday-F riday, 8-5 31 3-268-41 00 DECEMBER 1985 FARM NEWS VOL. 64 NO. 12 A publication of the Michigan Farm Bureau In this issue: 'Tis the Season The Grand Plaza Hotel and adjacent Grand Center will be decked out in holiday sparkle to welcome MFB and affiliated companies to Grand Rapids for the 1985 annual meeting 10 AgriVisor A Service for Farm Bureau Members Beginning in mid.December, MFB members will have the chance to team up with the highly rated 'Farm Bureau AgriVisor service using an FM sideband radio 14 The Illustrated "Farmette" Andi Hofmeister, creator of Rural Living's monthly "Farmette," doesn't bill herself as a cartoon illustrator, but for many readers her insights provide a view of the lighter side of farming 19 COLUMNS Rural Route - page 4 Rural Exchange - page 18 Country Ledger - page 5 Agrinomic Update - page 26 Legislative Review - page 6 Discussion Topic - page 28 Front and Center - page 15 Farm Bureau Market Place - page 31 Michigan Farm rtews RURAL LlYlrtG: Michigan farm News Rural Living Is published monthly. on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and Public Relations Division. Publication and editorial offices at 7:37:3 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Mich. 46909. Post Office Box :30960; telephone. Lansing 5\7-:32:3-7000. Extension 5\ O. SUBSCRIPTIOrt PRIC~: $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. \:3. 192:3 as Michigan farm News. name changed to Michigan Farm News Rural Living Dec. I. 1961. Third-class postage paid at Lansing. Michigan. and at additional mailing offices. ~DITORIAL: Connie Turbin. Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor; Marcia Ditchle. Associate Editor; Cathy J. Klrvan. Associate Editor. OfFlC~RS: 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. zln; Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District 1. 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 LeCronler. Freeland; District 9. Donald Nugent. frankfort; District 10. Margaret Kartes. West Branch; District I I. Bernard Doll. Dafter. DIR~CTORS AT LARGE: Dave Conklin. Corunna; MiChael PrIdgeon. Montgomery: Wayne Wood. Marlette. FARM BUR~AU WOM~rt: faye Adam. Snover. fARM BUREAU YOUrtG FARMERS: David Lott. Mason. The foundation of FB's structure is self- Organizational government by vote 'of the elected representatives. strength Based on Member Unity "We have, in Farm Bureau, a Farm Bureau structure is jority vote. Up to the time that very democratic organization unique among organizations. It a decision by vote is made, with the right to participate in is an organization operated by every member has the right to making recommendations and its members - not in name oppose a motion or a resolu- decisions. This opportunity to only, but in actual practice. It tion, to work against it as participate is available to us by was created by its members and vigorously as he or she wishes, attending community group is maintained by its members, and to seek to convert others to meetings, county annual meet- and operates on the policies a different point of view. Once a ings, and the state annual meet- adopted by them. proposal has been decided by a ing. Weare pleased that our vote of the majority, however, it members take this responsibility Supporting the Majority becomes the policy of the or- seriously. We're very proud, with good ganization. "We would point out that this reason, of our policy develop- Our organization must speak right to participate carries with ment process, and we do a lot with one united voice if it is to it the responsibility to support of talking about it. Seldom, be heard. No one listens to a the decisions of the majority. however, do we talk about the babble of conflicting voices. This requires a sense of organi- need for organization discipline Farm Bureau members under- zation discipline which can only - vital to the execution of our stand this and work by majority be self-imposed by the member. policies. Talking about disci- decision. "We encourage our members pline, I suppose, just isn't com- I am convinced that the over to discuss, disagree and recom- fortable. Perhaps it's because 500 voting delegates who will mend changes in the policies the word conjures up thoughts be making important decisions when these actions are appropri- of punishment, of having to do in Grand Rapids, Dee. 10-13, ate. Wealso request that mem- something you don't want to believe in the majority vote bers give enthusiastic support do, of being controlled. Natural- principle and even those who to all matters of Farm Bureau ly, those thoughts make the are on the losing side of a policy after they have been hackles rise, especially with debate will work in support of properly approved." fiercely independent farmers. the policy that is adopted. They - Policy adopted by In the sense of our Farm Bu- accept that the decisions of the voting delegates at the reau, however, the phrase majority become the official 1969 MFB annual meeting "organization discipline" has no policies of aiL to be supported connotations of punishment. by all. FB's Structure Supporting Farm Bureau policy In Farm Bureau, organization Is Self.Government is not mandatory; no one can discipline is simply member The foundation of Farm Bu- be expelled from the organiza- dedication - dedication to a reau's structure is self-govern- tion if they do not agree with system that has stood the test ment. This foundation upholds policy. Instead, it is exactly of time - with achievements a structure which emphasizes what the delegates at the 1969 over the years that are proof of MFB annual meeting said - a its success. the freedom of the individual to initiate policy proposals. This responsibility that goes along structure enables every policy with the right to participate in to be a decision of the majority making recommendations and of the members, either by their decisions. Without organization own vote or by vote of their discipline, all the time and ef- Elton R. Smith, President elected representatives. fort invested in policy develop- Michigan Farm Bureau ment would be wasted. A fundamental principle of Farm Bureau's strength is an adherence to decision by ma- 4 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 COUNTRY LEDGER The Old Cook stove By Carl Gregory I vividly recall the time I went It has been well over 50 years since I last carried in wood to out to the well with two pails on fill the woodbox or shook the a frosty, sunny morning in late grates, but I can recall as autumn to fetch water. I felt though yesterday the big wood more grown up with two pails, burning cook stove that domi- one in each hand. The .pump nated a corner of our farm and handle were covered with kitchen. It was shiny black with sparking frost. I couldn't resist its name "Peninsular" scrawled the temptation to touch my in gleaming nickel across the tongue to the delicate frosty oven door. designs. As soon as it touched No magic burner with a brain. the metal it stuck fast. Fright- No self-cleaning oven. Not even ened, I pulled my tongue away a temperature gauge. But then leaving some of the skin still at- anyone worth her salt in the tached. kitchen didn't need a gauge. Feeling less grown up now Shejust knew by instinct when A metal handle with a nickel with blood trickling from my to slide in the white pillows of hand-grip slipped snugly into mouth, I ran inside tO'my raised dough and after a few specially designed depressions mother. She quickly assured me peeks exactly when to take out of the removable, oval griddles. my tongue would heal, but if it golden loaves of bread. Lids could be lifted with this in- ever occurred again I should The oven was not just for bak- strument to add wood or awaken leave my tongue on the metal ing bread. The opened oven a sluggish fire by poking and until the frost dissolved. door was the perfect shelf to moving the wood about in just Locked in my memory forever dry out wet shoes. the right manner. Sometimes a are those unforgettable aro- Kindling was temporarily lid would be removed complete- matic cook stove vapors; wisps stored in the oven so as to be ly so that an iron kettle could of smoke from a hot pine knot tinder dry for the next fire. be placed directly over the fire. fire whenever a lid was lifted to Thin slices of apples were Serious cooking was underway add wood; sizzling hickory spread out in the oven on flat when you saw this. smoked bacon; coffee boiling in cookie tins to dehydrate. During Another handle could be at- a granite pot before daylight on the winter months these same tached to the grate system. A a cold winter morning; candy dried out wrinkled wedges vigorous back and forth move- making at Christmas time; chili would find their way back into ment of this tool would release sauce simmering in a big iron the oven in the form of cin- any build-up of wood ashes. kettle on a rear griddle in namon scented apple pies. This important function permit- autumn; and the best smell of Slabs of soap-stone were ted sufficient air to filter all ... bread baking. Just think- heated in the oven, then wrapped through the grates, quite neces- ing about it I can almost taste in woolen to take the chill off sary for good combustion. A the first steaming slice - the cold blankets in an unheated crackling, roaring fire was a crust - with fresh churned but- bedroom, or used as comfort- sure sign of clean grates and ter. able foot rests while out on cut- dry wood. There are those who say we ter rides. The heat seemed to The old cook stove even pro- should not live in the past, but last for hours as Diamond, our vided our family with hot water. rather deal with the challenges chestnut m~re, pulled the cut- It came from that part of the of today to make a better to- ter through deep winter snow. stove known as the reservoir. morrow. But occasionally, for a A warming shelf jutted out a The water was warmed through few fleeting moments, I return couple of feet above the back of an exchange of heat from the to another day to pump a pail the stove. Food just cooked was fire box. This magic tank, an in- of water, carry in an armful of stored here while the rest of the tegral part of the stove, held wood, shake the grates, and see meal was being prepared. Large several pails of water which had my mother standing over the families with large appetites to be pumped from the well in old cook stove in complete taxed even the enormous cap- the baGkyard. charge of the bubbling pots and ability of a big cook stove. pans. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 5 LEGISLATIVE REVIEW Congressional Action Lags Balanced Budget - U.S. sound, has asked for a $6 bil- senators are also procrasti- lion line of credit from the U.S. Farm Bill Debate - At this nating over fiscal measures like treasury. However, the adminis- writing, the Senate has delayed the balanced budget amend- tration is taking a careful look debate on the 1985 farm bill ment and the debt ceiling legis- at the long-range implications and was not expected to take lation. Supporters of a balanced of a credit bail out for the FCS up the discussion until mid- budget were hoping for a win in and for farmers. November. When debate gets the Michigan Legislature on a Testifying on the farm credit underway, the first topic is like- balanced budget resolution subject recently in Washington, ly to be an amendment by Sen. which would have made Michi- AFBF President Robert Delano Robert Dole which would limit gan the 33rd of the required 34 said solutions to the farm credit the proposed four-year target states needed to demand a con- problems must be accomplished price freeze to a one-year stitutional amendment. How- in a way that will help farm bor- freeze. ever, the resolution was de- rowers without impairing the in- The reason for the delay is feated in the Michigan House by tegrity of the lending institu- the illness of Sen. Edward Zorin- sky, ranking Democrat on the just a few votes. tions that serve them. The farmer-owned system ex- Senate Agriculture Committee perienced losses of $522 mil- and party floor leader for the Farm Credit System - The lion in the third quarter of 1985 Senate farm bill debate. FCS,which until a few months and faces its first annual loss ago held that it was financially since the Great Depression. Feds Challenge Voter Registration Kules Voter Registration - ty instead of the authority • Allow Department of State to Secretary of State Richard resting at city and township provide local election officials Austin is preparing a six-part levels. with address changes and voter proposal to answer a pending • Require the state to provide transactions completed in federal lawsuit claiming that a standardized voter registra- branch offices as well as cancel- the deputy registrar system un- tion form. lations. constitutionally deprives per- FB has not taken a position sons of their voting rights. The on the six-part proposal as it is proposals would: not in bill form. The Policy • Purge voter files of persons Development Committee may who have not voted in five years make recommendations to the (now 10 years). Gov. Blanchard voting delegates at the MFB an- vetoed this twice, claiming ac- • Give the Department of State nual meeting . cess to the registration must be authority to register voters at improved. The Senate has group meetings if requested. Farmland Assessment - passed a bill but the Depart- • Eliminate requirement to Both the Senate and House ment of State opposes it. notarize mailed voter registra- have passed nearly identical • Permit reinstatement of tion. resolutions (S.R. 273 and H.R. cancelled registrations on elec- • Allow voter registration by 308) requesting the state Tax tion day for voters who could mail for those permitted to re- Commission to "conduct a prove they were still residents. new drivers' licenses by mail. study and gather certain infor- • Allow county clerks to ap- mation relative to the assessed point deputy registrars with countywide registration authori- 6 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985. value and the assessment of ag- ricultural lands in Michigan." The resolutions point out that AFBF Study Committee Develops farmland assessed value shows an "increase of 8.1 % since Ag Credit Recommendations 1981, while the U.S. Department of Agriculture cites a 10% de- 2% of outstanding loans. At State Farm Bureau presidents crease and the Federal Reserve that time, federal loans would had the opportunity to discuss Bank of Chicago reports a 14% be available. The federal loans an advance report of recom- decrease over the same period." should bear interest annually at mendations made by an AFBF The state Tax Commission, study committee on agricultur- the lesser of 25% of earnings or "in cooperation with county the cost of money to the U.S. al credit via a nationwide tele- equalization boards and local phone conference call, Nov. 13. Treasury. Sufficient funds assessors of agricultural land should be made available to Details of the study committee's values," is to provide the Legis- recommendations, which were assure integrity of the system. lature with the following infor- approved by AFBF President Audits - External audits mation: Robert Delano and members of should be required for each en- -Trends in assessed value of the AFBF executive committee, tity in the Farm Credit System agricultural land by county for were released to the news media annualIy and published for its the past 10 years. at a press conference on Nov. members for the next five years - Whether the assessed value 14. and periodically thereafter. of agricultural land accurately The study committee report The recommendations also represents the true cash value and recommendations called addressed the situation of other of the property. for: lending institutions in the farm - Recommendations on alter- Restructuring the Farm credit sector. The committee native methods of determ.ining Credit Administration - A recommended continued utiliza- the true cash value of agricul- five-person bipartisan board ap- tion of the FmHA debt adjust- tural land. pointed by the president would ment program. They further - Whether the Marshall-Swift administer the system. The ma- recommended that commercial Assessors Manual is a better jority representation would be banking institutions be given means of determining agricul- from the agricultural sector. increased authority to extend tural land values. Board members would serve the period of time for writing - Assessment levels of land in staggered terms with the off agricultural loan losses. P.A. ] 16. chairperson and chief executive State Farm Bureau presidents In response to the resolu- officer appointed by the presi- serving as on the AFBF study tions, the Tax Commission has dent. committee were: Elton R. Smith, appointed a ] 2-member task Government assistance to Michigan, chairperson; Henry force; eight are equalization the Farm Credit System Voss, California; Harry Bell, directors from counties through- when necessary - Internal South Carolina; Bryce Neidig, out the state, two represent resources should be used until Nebraska; and Keith Eckel, state agencies and two are systemwide loan loss reserves Pennsylvania. public members. The public and surplus are drawn down to mem bers are Dr. AI House of MSUand Robert E. Smith, MFB senior legislative counsel. Others wilI be welcome to subject to the same laws and forced to assume those policies submit information. regulations as any. other com- and suffer heavy losses. Ot~er The task force had one meet- pany. groups, including Farm Bu- ing; a final report must be It is maintained that Blue reau's, in effect subsidize such made to the Legislature by Jan. Cross has been unfairly regu- groups. S.B. 560 would solve 1, 1986. lated in relation to its competi- this problem by requiring all in- tion. For example, many other surers to insure their share of Blue Cross Mutualization companies have cancelled high such risks or pay in to a pool - A bill (S.B. 560) has been in- risk people or raised the fund for high risk insureds. troduced to make Blue Cross a premiums so high that they Maximum rates would be estab- non-profit mutual company, were unaffordable. In the case lished for Medicare supplemen- of the elderly, Blue Cross was tal coverage. (continued on page 30) RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 7 Boost Milk Production By Up To 15 Pounds Per Cow .Per Day. New Dairy Pro RC works with hay, haylage, corn silage ... or any combination. Dairy Pro RC is a complete dairy feed that scientifically regulates protein and carbohydrate sources to enable your cows to use the feed more efficiently. Dairy Pro RC helps provide a more steady flow of protein and energy in the optimal amount, precise type and correct balance for a more profitable ratio of milk to feed. In tests at Cooperative Research Farms in Tully, New York (where Dairy Pro RC was developed), Dairy Pro RC increased milk production by up to 15 pounds per cow per day, compared to conventional ration ... and up to 6 pounds per cow per day, compared to a ration balanced only for protein solubility. \ Best of all, Dairy Pro RC achieves this increase in milk production without increasing daily feed intake. To learn more about this innovative new dairy feed, contact COUNTRYMARKl 'patent pending "U.S. Patent Number 4,118,513 I Production Increases allrlbutable to Dairy Pro RC are based on c.ontrolled experiments and are not directly projectable due to ~Iflerences In management practices, genetic potential, available forages, etc. Count~ 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 OTUEK 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. o o -_ o o for MFB's annual meeting in Grand Rapids December 10 - 13 o * The Grand Plaza Hotel and the adjacent Grand Center conven- tion facility in Grand Rapids will constructive recommendations, MFB staff and elected leader- ship set up a schedule of pro- MACMAannual meeting events include a noon luncheon where the guest speaker will be be decked out in holiday spar- gram and facility planning that USDADeputy Secretary John kle to welcome over 1,000 farm- culminates 12 months later in Norton. He will discuss the ers who will be attending the another successful MFB annual future of federal marketing 1985 annual meetings of the meeting. orders. The MACMAbusiness Michigan Farm Bureau and two This year's event is no excep- meeting opens at 1:30 p.m. of its affiliated companies. tion. Here's a preview of the MFB delegate registration Dates for this year's annual week's activities in Grand begins at 11 a.m. in Grand meeting are Dee. 10-13. Rapids. Center. Only county delegate Annual meeting organizers chairpersons are required to go are putting a last minute shine Tuesday, Dec. 10 through registration, but dele- on the line up of banquets, pro- Farmers Petroleum Coopera- gates and chairpersons should grams, speakers and special tive, lne. and the Michigan Agri- plan to register early to allow events. Planning for the four- cultural Cooperative Marketing time to attend the Fruit and Ice day gathering of farmer mem- Association will be meeting in Cream Social at 2 p.m. The bers begins almost as soon as the Grand Plaza Hotel for their hospitality event for members the previous year's annual respective annual meetings. is sponsored by MACMA's Direct meeting is completed. Registration for FPCdelegates Marketing Division and the MFB board members and staff and members will begin at 9 Michigan Chapter of the Ameri- bring their comments and sug- a.m., with the welcome and can Dairy Association. gestions to critique sessions business meeting scheduled to designed to assure the contin- begin at 10 a.m. ued high quality of the annual MACMAmembers and guests policy setting and business ses- should plan to arrive in time for sions. Then, acting on those the 11 a.m. registration. 10 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 Then at .3 p.m., MFB delegates Farmer, Outstanding Young the display area, adjacent to will take their places for the of- Farm Woman and Discussion the delegate floor. Also in the ficial opening of the MFB an- Meet winner. Members are wel- display area will be the Koffee nual meeting and policy resolu- come to view the Discussion Klatcheteria, with refreshments, tions consideration. Meet preliminaries at 9:30 a.m., information and telephone ser- The schedule for Tuesday the semi-finals at 10:.30 a.m. vice provided courtesy of Farm evening puts membership in and the finals at 1:30 p.m. Bureau Insurance Group. Other the spotlight with the County Members are also invited to the exhibits include Safemark, FPC, Presidents' and Campaign Man- Young Farmer Awards Program Hi-Grade Nuts and Bolts, AT&T agers' Banquet at 6:.30 p.m. The at 4:.30 p.m., where contest win- and AgriCom/ AgriVisor. program includes awards and ners will be announced. MFB Women, in cooperation recognition for membership Winner of the Distinguished with Metropolitan Hospital of campaign achievements and Young Farmer title will receive a Grand Rapids, will sponsor a will provide an inspiring kick-off trip to Atlanta in January to health screening fair on for the 1986 campaign. Guest participate in the national com- Wednesday and Thursday from speaker will be Larry Bielat, petition and the use of a Deutz 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Grand assistant football coach at Allis tractor for one year. The Center's Blodgett Room. A ques- Michigan State University. Discussion Meet winner will tionnaire, cholesterol test and a have the use of a Chevy S-10 blood pressure check are in- Wednesday I Dec. 11 pickup truck for a year, plus a cluded in the screening. See the Af'BF Women's Committee trip to the AFBF annual to com- article on page 13 for more in- Chairperson Bert White will be pete in the national Discussion formation. the keynote speaker at the 7:30 Meet contest. The Outstanding The commodity session, be- a.m. Welcome Breakfast, spon- Young Farm Woman will win a ginning at 9:30 a.m., will sored by the FB Women. "To- year's subscription to AgriCom feature the topics, "An Ex- gether We Win" is the theme of and use of a Radio Shack video- amination of Beef & Pork Price White's address. The breakfast tex terminal. She will also Spreads," "Meat in the Market- program will also include high- receive an expense paid trip to place: Challenges and Re- lights of the past year's ac- participate in the Washington sponses" and "What Farmers tivities of FB Women and recog- Legislative Seminar next spring. Should Know About P,A. 116." nition of inductees in the FB The truck, tractor and com- MFB President Elton R. Smith Women's 'Hall of Fame. puter terminal will be on dis- will deliver his annual address Young farmers will be in the play during the convention in to members at the noon lun- spotlight as they vie for the cheon. titles of Distinguished Young BERT WUITE CAPT. GERALD COFFEE RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 11 The resolutions session will Prizes to be given away in- Breakfast, scheduled for 7: 15 reconvene at 2:30 p.m. with ad- clude: a Safemark battery, a.m. A highlight of this event journment scheduled for 4:30 MACMASampler Gift Pack, will be the Young Farmer Raffie p.m. Cherry Bowl tickets and other drawing. Before heading to the County items from FB affiliates and Grand prize is a Carribean Awards Banquet, change into departments. cruise for two and first prize is western attire for a night of fun The Silent AgriPac Auction, a Northern Michigan weekend and relaxation. The banquet, sponsored by the FB Women, for two. Other prizes are a which starts at 6:30 p.m., will will run concurrently. Christmas 19-inch color TV, microwave honor the 1985 star award win- crafts and many other items oven, video cassette recorder ning counties. Special awards will be up for bid. The highest and 35mm camera outfit. If you wi\1 be given to the five coun- bid received for each item will haven't purchased your raffie ties that earn the most gold be displayed, and you'll have tickets yet, contact your county stars, with the "Top County FB the chance to submit a higher Young Farmer Committee chair- of 1985" winning an expense bid. person or a member of the MFB paid trip for two to the AFBF an- If you've lost all your chips at Young Farmer Committee. The nual meeting in Atlanta. the game tables, bid as high as $2.50 ticket donation con- Wednesday evening's enter- you can on auction items, or stitutes a contrib~tion to MFB's tainment in East Grand Hall will just plain like to dance - then AgriPac (License #R4935-23S). offer members several choices. the Jamboree is for you. It Tickets for the AgriPac Break- In addition to the traditional begins at 9:15 p.m. with music fast will be on sale during the Jamboree, two new activities by the Petal Fall Variety Band. annual meeting on a first-come, have been added: a Las Vegas The band will break at 10 first-serve basis, at a cost of Night and Silent AgriPac Auc- p.m. for the drawing and high- $15. Proceeds will be used to tion, which begin at 8:30 p.m. est bid announcements then help elect "Friends of Agricul- At the awards banquet, mem- resume playing until 12:30 a.m. ture" in the 1986 elections. bers will receive a bag of chips The general session, begin- and one ticket for the Las Thursday, Dec. 12 ning at 8:30 a.m., will include Vegas Night Drawing. During Congressman Bill Schuette, a the treasurer's and administra- the evening, you can try your member of the House Agricul- tive director's reports, and con- luck at the various games and ture Committee, will be the sideration of resolutions. purchase additional drawing keynote speaker at the Agripac Gov. James Blanchard will ad- tickets with the chips you have dress the delegate body and left (or win). guests at the noon luncheon. 12 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 The resolutions session will recess at 4 p.m. for caucuses to nominate MFB directors for Dis- tricts 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and II. Uealth Profile Screening to The annual banquet, begin- ning at 6:30 p.m., will feature be Offered During MFB Annual an address by Capt. Gerald Cof- fee, U.S. Navy, who spent seven By Cathy J. Kiruan early stages of disease, to pre- years as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam. The topic of his vent avoidable lifestyle-related With the rising costs of health disease, to improve the quality address is "Faith: The Key to care and insurance premiums, of the health of all FB members Survival and Triumph." more and more emphasis is be- and to reduce medical care Young Farmer title winners ing placed on preventative costs through preventative will also be in the spotlight at health care. Farm Bureau mem- measures. the annual banquet, with pre- bers who attend the state an- The complimentary health sentations of the Deutz Allis nual meeting in Grand Rapids screening includes a question- tractor keys to the Distin- will have the opportunity to par- naire, cholesterol test and guished Young Farmer, Chevro- ticipate in a health risk profile blood pressure check. It will be let S-10 pickup keys to the Dis- program. offered from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. cussion Meet winner, and Agri- Com subscription to the Out- Dee. 11-12 in the Blodgett standing Young Farm Woman. Room of the Grand Center. Ap- Michigan Farm Bureau's high- pointments should be made in est honor, the Distinguished the delegate registration area. Service to Agriculture award, "A short, IS-minute invest- will be presented. ment of your time for the health MFB will also be on the receiv- screen could potentially assure ing end of a recognition presen- your long-term good health," tation, honored as an MSUBen- said FB Women's Committee efactor. James Anderson, dean Chairperson Faye Adam, in an- of the College of Agriculture nouncing the program. and Natural Resources, will All tests will be administered make the presentation. by professionals from the Well- ness Center. About three weeks Friday, Dec. 13 "The purpose of the profile is after the convention, members The resolutions session will to apply the principles of risk will receive a report regarding resume at 8:30 a.m. and con- management to the personal the health risk questionnaire tinue until completion Friday health of Farm Bureau mem- that they complete and test afternoon. bers," said Bridget White of the results. The report will clearly Election of directors in odd- Wellness Center at Metropolitan indicate measures that can be numbered districts, one director Hospital in Grand Rapids. The taken to improve health and at large, one director repre- hospital and FB Women are co- longevity. senting FB Women and one sponsoring the health screening Members whose scores indi- director representing Young fair. cate that they have a high Farmers will also take place. "By focusing on risk of heart health risk will receive a follow- The MFB president will be disease - the leading cause of up phone call from the Wellness nominated by the delegate body death in our country - as an Center staff, and the members' and elected during a reorgani- indicator for existing levels of personal physician will be con- zation meeting of the board well ness, Farm Bureau members tacted. following the annual meeting. with significant risks will be "It is our responsibility to identified," White said. "Our maintain our personal health," programs are designed to assist Adam said. "Screening is a people in improving their over- preventative step we can take all well-being by focusing on in doing so. Studies increasing- medical concerns as well as ly indicate that we can save a lifestyle-related issues such as substantial amount of money in stress, faulty diet, lack of prop- health care costs if we stay er exercise and smoking." healthy, but what we save most White said the program objec- is years of productive life." tives are to detect and treat RURAL LlVINO, DECEMBER 1985 13 MFB to Offer New Sideband Radio Service By Marcia Ditchie Com is identical to that received frequency of key regional FM from AgriVisor." radio stations. Buy sell ... cash forward AgriVisor's basic strategy in- Subscribers will also receive contract hedge ... making volves a team of market ana- the AgriVisor newsletter 24 the correct marketing decision lysts using planned marketing times a year. The newsletter at the right time can boost net and multiple sales. The strategy carries charts, graphs and farm income and, conversely, minimizes farmers' marketing tables. In addition, it spells out the wrong decision could cost risks so that pricing opportuni- long-term strategies, states money. ties can be taken advantage of specific price objectives and The chances of the latter oc- throughout the year. carries detailed descriptions of curring are greatly reduced The team of marketing ana- special market signals. to watch. when farmers team up with lysts includes specialists in soy- AgriVisor basic package sub- marketing experts. MFB mem- beans, soymeal, wheat, feed- scribers will be able to attend bers will soon have another op- grains, livestock and grain. This special marketing education portunity to join the winning team of experts provides sub- seminars that provide in-depth team through Illinois Farm Bu- scribers with insight into the discussions on the factors reau's AgriVisor Services, Inc. principles of the meat packag- which will influence commodity "In mid-December, farmers in ing and retail businesses and markets in the future, and pro- the southern two-thirds of the how those businesses affect fu- vide training on using the tools Lower Peninsula can receive ture market prices. In addition, of the professional market daily marketing recommenda- the team forecasts price move- analyst. tions from AgriVisor on FM side- ments of soybeans and wheat, In addition, special radio band radios," said Robert G. examines long-term market seminars are frequently broad- Craig, manager of the MFB planning and commodity price cast live in the evening through- Commodity Activities and Re- cycles for feed grains, and helps out the year to update subscrib- search Department. "In 1984, farmers develop strategies for ers on the farm economic out- AgriVisor's marketing advice buying and selling livestock, look or new strategies for grain service was rated the best in along with grain cash contract- and livestock pricing. These the nation by Farm Journal ing and hedging strategies. radio seminars often follow ma- magazine and we're pleased to MFB members can subscribe jor USDAreports or other key be able to offer this service to to the basic AgriVisor package events such as national farm many of Michigan's farmers in for $468 a year ($39/month) program changes. the hopes that they can im- which includes the sideband "AgriVisor is a proven market- prove their farm income. radio, newsletters and semi- ing service that has consistent- "This new service will offer nars. ly put subscribers in the top market advice and complement The special sideband radio one-third of all farm marketers," MFB's AgriCom program at a delivers continuous market in- said Craig. "We believe this new lower cost. However, AgriVisor formation on prices, news, fea- service will be of great benefit will only offer grain and live- tures and AgriVisor advice from to MFB members, especially for stock prices, market advice and the team of marketing analysts. those who want market advice some national news, whereas Radio reports typically run five that's economically priced." AgriCom provides these items minutes in length and are con- Sign up information and side- via computer plus state and na- tinuously repeated. The tapes band radio units for home or tional news, weather and legis- are updated over a dozen times mobile use will be available lative information. In addition, each day, Monday through Fri- through participating county AgriCom provides special com- day. The radios are permanently Farm Bureaus. In addition, the modity information such as dry tuned to the information as it is units will be on display at the beans and dairy. The marketing broadcast over the FM sideband MFBannual meeting. advice received through Agri- 14 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 FRONT Ii CENTER MFBmembers wishing to attend the 1986 AFBFannual meeting in Atlanta have until Dec. 6 to make reservations under package one (drive to Atlanta). Cost of that package is $249, which includes five nights at the Atlanta Hyatt Regency, the Michigan/Ohio Breakfast, Farm Bureau Country Fair and AFBF registration fee. Reservation forms and payment should be sent to Tiffany Travel, 4646 Okemos Road, Okemos, Mich. 48864 by Dee. 6. "Our $10 Billion Annual Farm Labor Bill" will be the topic of the Farm Labor Con- ference, which will be held in conjunction with the 1986 AFBF annual meeting in Atlanta. The first-time conference will be chaired by MFB President/ AFBF Vice President Elton Smith. The conference will include remarks on what the Immigration Act reforms will mean to agriculture by Congressman Romano L. Mazzoli (D-Ky.), chairperson of the Immigration Subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee. A panel discussion will also be part of the program, with panelists Chuck Fields, AFBF National Affairs Division assistant director; Roy Gabriel, California FB legislative director; and Walter Kates, manager of the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Associa- tion Labor Division. Additional items to be covered include future farm labor issues and "The Legal Services Corporation - A Federal Agency Out of Control." The conference will be held on Jan. 13. The Safemark Winter steel Sale will be kicked-off the first week of December with vendor meetings in Cadillac, Grand Rapids, Atlanta (Mich.), Midland, Marlette, Lansing, Adrian and Three Rivers. Order deadline for the steel sale is Jan. 7, 1986. See page 16 for the items of- fered and sale prices, then use the postcard insert to send for more information. The Michigan Association of Farmer Cooperatives 1985 annual meeting will be held Dec. 9 at the Lansing Hilton Inn. The morning program will include election of federation and local representatives, awards presentation and committee and activity reports. Dr. James H. Anderson, dean of MSU'sCollege of Agriculture and Natural Resources, will be the keynote speaker at the noon luncheon. A Manager/Director Seminar will be held in the afternoon in conjunction with the annual meeting. Topics to be covered include the function of farmer cooperatives, an assessment of cooperative performance, managing: a challenge from the membership and directors, and board and management relations. The day-long meeting will conclude with dinner and a speaker. For further information on the meeting, contact Charles Buchholz, MAFCexecutive secretary, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909, or call 517-323-7000, ext. 504. The 1986 Michigan Soybean Association annual meeting will be held Friday, Jan. 3 at Zehnders' Restaurant in Frankenmuth. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with three in- dividual break-out sessions beginning at 9 a.m. The sessions will run concurrently for 45 minutes and and will be repeated at 10 a.m. Topics covered include South American soybean production, grain Quality for exports and soybean yield contest panel of winners. A trade show with about 25 exhibitors will be open all day. The afternoon program will feature recognition of yield contest winners in the no-till, con- ventional non-irrigated and irrigated categories. The meeting will conclude with a discussion of the pros and cons of the 1985 farm bill presented by Randy Green, staff manager of congres- sional affairs for the American Soybean Association's Washington, D.C., office. For further information on the annual meeting and registration, contact Keith Reinholt, ex- ecutive director, Michigan Soybean Association, P.O. Box 287, Frankenmuth, Mich. 48734; phone 517-652-3294. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 19851 15 I WHEN PERFORMANCE COUNTS Winter Steel Sale Sale Ends January 71 SAFE.A •• I~ Farm Bureau Riveted Sickle Assemblies for Haybines Part Make Member Price Mower/Conditioners & Combines AN102009 John Deere $28.49 Gathering Chain Model Sickle Farm Bureau 176-27&C91 I.H. Gathering Chain 28.49 Machine Number Length Member Price WK4 4" Vibra Tine Shovel 1.39 New Holland BU215A New Holland Guard 5.74 469,1469 9 ft. $ 56.32 WD-3 John Deere Shin 6.34/each* New Holland 479, 488 9 ft. 58.88 058UV I.H.C. Landside 4.61/each* New Holland 489 9 ft. 70.40 NW1036SC John Deere Moldboard 62.28 New Holland 495,1495 12 ft. 85.76 (soft center) John Deere 200 Series TBUV A.C., Ford, Oliveri 8.94/each* 16 ft. 128.00 Combine White Trashboard DP2238 Double Point Cultivator 2.90 I.H. Combine 820 20 ft. 151.04 ..Sold only in cartons of six with bolts. L W SHARE (WITH BOL TS) 16" from $8.61 ea.• Safemark #40 Chain 1 .16/ft. Safemark #50 Chain 1.51/ft. PLAIN Safemark #60 Chain 2.10/ft. DISC BLADE 22" from $16.79 CC-124 TWISTED CHISEL 4" SLASH POINT $9.55 WC-134 DOUBLE POINT $1.73 Ask your local county Safemark coordinator or call your county Farm Bureau secretary. Send dealer inquiries to: Michigan Farm Bureau Group Purchasing, Inc., P.O. Box 30960, 7373 W. Saginaw, Lansing, Mich. 48909 Open this Christmas Package Everyday Next Year! Here's a Christmas package that AgriVisor Newsletters - they help you learn how to use the you'll appreciate all year long for the Twenty-four newsletters a year bring tools of the professional market convenience, timeliness and accuracy you detailed information only the analysts. of AgriVisor marketing news and printed page can carry. You can see strategic marketing advisories. and analyze charts, graphs and tables You'll use AgriVisor advice to - material you must see and study The Basic Package make your marketing job easier with to use best. Get daily AgriVisor news and the best, most straightforward, Newsletters keep you posted on marketing advice, sideband radio specific advice available to farm what's ahead in commodity markets. equ~pment, user manual and twice marketers. Count on AgriVisor's Long-term strategies are spelled out, monthly newsletters. Choose one of strategy of- planned marketing and and specific price objectives are our AgriVisor subscriber payment multiple sales to minimize marketing stated. And you get detailed descrip- plans: risks so you can take advantage of tions of special market signals to Pay Quarterly $117 pricing opportunities, and help meet watch - all delivered in language Pay Annually $468 your cash flow needs. you understand. Add secondary subscribers. at a AgriVisor Seminars - Look minimum investment: Basic beyond the day to day pressures of Extra Sideband Radio Unit $100 marketing to a broader view of your Building Blocks for marketing job. Extra Newsletter $25 Successful Marketing The seminars provide in-depth dis- For more information use the cussions of the factors which will in- postage paid reply card in this AgriVisor seA Radio - This fluence markets in the future. And publication. special sideband radio delivers con- tinuous market information: prices, AgrlVls~r news and features, plus AgriVisor advice. Stay on top of daily market changes, and with the AgriVisor ad- SM vice, see how those changes fit your long-term market strategy. A Service for Farm Bureau Members • Secondary subscribers are sons, fathers, part- Marketing Advice for ners who are actively involved in the same farming operation. the Modern Farmer RURAL EXCHANGE Scholarships Awarded to Olivet College Students RURALRASCALS Ann Reincke of Marshall and awards of $1,850 to help fur- Ed Malek of Menominee have ther their insurance studies. been awarded the third annual FBIG Executive Vice President insurance scholarships sponsor- Robert Wiseman presented the ed by Farm Bureau Insurance scholarships during an awards Group. ceremony Oct. 29 in Lansing. Reincke and Malek, both ma- This is the second year that joring in insurance at Olivet Malek has received the scholar- College, received one-year ship. Known as the Michigan Farm Bureau Insurance Scholarships, the fund was started by FBIG three years ago to help deserv- ing insurance majors attending Olivet College. "Both Ann and Ed are out- standing examples of the type of young people entering the in- surance profession today," Wiseman said. "It speaks well WUEREARE TUOSETRACTOR KEYS? - At age three months, for the insurance industry that this little tyke had already de- so many bright and talented cided what he wanted to be when people are choosing insurance he grew up. Now one year and a as a career." couple months old, Michael Sheerin continues to play with agricultural toys but has added chao chao trains and school buses to his career interests. Community Group Responds to Right to Farm Case Michael is the son of Tim and Kim Sheerin of Grand Ledge. "At our meeting Oct. 11, we An article on the Right to voted to show our support for Farm battle being waged by St. the defense of the Right to Joseph County hog producer Farm Act in the case of Olin Olin Jones prompted the Iron Jones," said secretary Mary R. Creek Modern Farmers Com- Kirk, in a letter that accom- munity Action Group to make a panied the Washtenaw County donation to the MFB Legal group's donation. "We truly Defense Fund. hope it will be acceptable." A Home Grown Tree - By Myra V. nand "Let's go cut our Christmas tree," Our farm can offer evergreens are joyful words to me, of balsam, spruce or pine. For one of the blessings of our farm Some year:s a tree was chosen is a home grown Christmas tree! several months before its time. We do not plant our trees in rows Let's look beside the fence rows, and trim them like a cone. the creeks, or in the wood. The seeds from which our trees grew It need not be a perfect tree, by the hand of God were sown. if it just looks "pretty" good. From tiny seedlings they did grow We will add an extra star up to the room sized ones, or turn a bare spot to a wall. I WANT MY MOMMYI - You can al- Weathering all the storms we saw: For like humans it's not perfect most hear this orphaned racoon the winds, the rains, and suns. but God still loves us all. screeching for its mother as Amy "enderson, 1 I, tries to comfort Spots of shade in summer What a joy it is to celebrate it. The baby was found in a hay the trees have given to our cows. the day that Jesus Christ was born, mow. Amy is the daughter of Perhaps while hunting rabbits, a boy With our own special home grown tree Keith and Kathy Uenderson, has rested 'neath their boughs. on a snowy Christmas morn! dairy farmers in Sanilac County. 18 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 The Illustrated IIFarmette l1 A look at farming on the lighter side By Connie Turbin The Farmette reacts to her sur- taken on a greater share of roundings with joy, frustration, farm work and finds herself Donning a red bandana and bewilderment and pride, coupled working alongside Ken and his ski parka transforms dark-eyed, with healthy doses of insight father. "At first Dad was pretty dark-haired Andrea Hofmeister and good humor. While Andi skeptical about having a of Tuscola County into Rural says the character is definitely woman in the farm shop or on Living's cartoon look-alike, autobiographical, she charac- the equipment, but he's ac- "The Farmette." terizes the Farmette as having a cepted my interest and my help Andi is the creator and il- much more positive outlook. and he's teaching me what I lustrator of the monthly car- "We have grown together need to know to be a partner in toon feature which appears in since I began drawing the the farming operation." the statewide Rural Living Farmette in early 1983," she Andi recognizes that the role magazine and in her own Tus- says. "The first ones reflected she has taken on at this point cola County Farm Bureau news- the fact that, like me, she was in the farm partnership is not letter. And while she is still not involved in the farm. Since. for everyone. "Our situation reluctant to call herself a car- then she has learned and so isn't unlike a lot of other farm toonist, she is making steady, have I." couples. We're trying to hold on self-taught progress in cartoon Right now Andi's priorities are in a tough time. In some fami- illustration. on the farm, where she and her lies, it's the wife who takes a "I try to keep the Farmette on husband Ken raise corn and job off the farm. In ours, Ken is the lighter side," says Andi light red kidney beans. In the the one working two jobs: farm- about the cartoon character she past couple of years, she has er and computer equipment uses to express a range of emo- salesman." tional responses to daily life. "Now that harvest is over, we can re- "I know you're angry, but "But I heard you tell Daddy that the paper the bedroom, repair that ieak consider the alternatives. " fields were so wet that you'd still be under the sink, clean closets .... " combining in January!" RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 19 Being raised in Birmingham, Michigan Farm Bureau's Out- Mich., was not exactly the ideal standing Young Farm Woman, I training ground for farmer or wrote a column for the Michi- farmette, acknowledges Andi. "1 gan Farm News. Most of those find, though, that I have a lot of columns were 'written' on the pride in saying that I'm a farm- tractor or while running er- er and in what I am learning rands. It provided me with the about the farm." necessary thinking time. After all, there's not much else to do on a tractor but think." This creative habit didn't turn off at the end of Andi's stint as Outstanding Young Farm Woman and guest columnist, but the demands of farm and family forced her to find a new way of communicating. "They say a picture is worth a thousand words," says Andi, "That's what I enjoy about Andl regularly trades artist's Ink drawing the Farmette cartoon. for a grease gun In her everyday It takes about an hour to ac- Apparently an aspiring "farm- role as farm partner. ette" cartoonist, too, young tually do the drawing. And Mary Jo's artistic endeavors are sometimes when the Rural Liv- on display in the Uofmelster Creating the Farmette char- home. Andl encourages creative ing deadline is looming that's acter, says Andi, was a way of expression by her children about all the time there is Nicky, 7, and Mary Jo, 6, in expressing that growing pride available." music, dance and drawing. The and the ideas and thoughts that Time may be hard to find, but children are among her 10 came to mind while driving plano and voice students. ideas are not a problem, she tractor or doing any of the says. "1 have lots of situation routine chores around the farm. ideas. Drawing is more difficult. toon satisfactorily. I guess "During the year that I was Lots of ideas get rejected just that's kind of a back door because I can't draw the car- editing process." Andi does try to take a few minutes in her busy schedule of role changes from wife and mother to farmer then music teacher and community volun- teer to teach herself to sketch and draw. "I am drawing more confident- ly, but I am still striving for a consistent rendition of the Farmette. I just need to sit down and draw and draw until 20 Farmettes, drawn from different angles and in different poses are consistent. Cartooning is unlike drawing because there is much less detail, but it's hard to know what to leave out." Drawing consistently is im- portant to her, but Andi is not setting unrealistic goals for herself. After all, she notes, plenty of syndicated cartoonists Andi and daughter, Mary Jo, pose in their look-alike "farmette" attire: don't draw very well. "1 don't red bandana triangle headscarf and ski parka. The cartoon character need to be a cartoon artist and her farm life situations are mostly autobiographical, says Andl, but, unless I plan to draw 'Prince she adds, the farmette Is more positive In her outlook. Valiant,''' 20 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 Developing Friendships By Janice Child organization made Art's transi- Farmowners in his favorite tion into insurance easy. He not product to present. "It's the In 1955, when Art Molzon only knew the people, but he best product to have," he said. joined Farm Bureau Insurance knew their language and knew "It's excellent. We have led the in Lapeer County, he already how to deal with farmers' prob- field in farmowner coverage had two successful careers go- lems. throughout the years. We were ing. Not only did he operate a "I've always enjoyed meeting the first to introduce a farm- 2BO-acre dairy farm, but he had and working with people," Art owners policy, and the innova- also worked in management in said. "After a while, they aren't tions that they keep coming up the Kroger grocery chain. In just customers; they are friends. with help us to keep pace with both cases, he had many years' Many of my clients have been the needs of the farmers." experience. with me for all .30 years; others Before becoming an agent, Thirty years later, Art Molzon for 20 to 25 years. Since I've Art had been involved in the is still a Farm Bureau Insurance lived in the area all my life, I Farm Bureau organization in agent in Lapeer County, and he know most of the people here, Lapeer County. During his early has been successful at this and it's become more of a days, membership was neces- career, as well. As Art said, friendship, in most cases, than sary to most insurance sales. "Most of the things I've done an agent/ client relationship." Today, he is still committed to I've liked. I farmed for about 16 Art and his son Harold, also membership and membership years. I was in management an FBIG agent, work together growth. "We try to write as with Krogers for nine years. I and write as much as they can, many memberships every year don't have the habit of chang- and new clients become friends. as we can to help the member- ing jobs." "Customers are more con- ship division. It's been benefi- More than anything else, Art cerned than ever about insur- cial for us to work with the said that curiosity brought him ance," said Art. "And they are Farm Bureau members all these to the insurance business'. Since more informed. As the policies years," he said. he had prior experience working have been rewritten to give Thirty years is a long time to with the public in a sales set- more coverage, customers have be affiliated with one organiza- ting at Krogers, he thought he kept up on these changes by tion. A relationship of that might be able to make a living reading literature that con- length requires mutual respect at it. At that time, he was farm- tained information about these and commitment to similar ing full-time, milking .35 cows changes. At the same time, pol- goals. Art said that when he each day. icies are so complex, customers started out in the insurance In these early days, his insur- call in to report claims even if business with FBIG he had a ance career was a part-time prop- they aren't sure they have cov- wait-and-see attitude. "1 osition, but that was to change erage. With policies so broad thought I would just try it out when he suffered a back injury now, there is always the possi- and see what it was like. If I and was forced to give up ac- bility that they are covered. didn't like the business, I knew tive farming. "Because we are friends and I could always quit and keep on The farm itself is still his, but because I'm familiar with most farming. I enjoyed it, and it was he rents the land out to others of the farm operations here, apparent that I could make a who plant crops. claims are quickly settled." living, so I stayed." In 1955, most of FBIG's One way that Art has found to clients were Farm Bureau mem- keep current on changes in the Janice Child is editor of bers, selecting either auto, life farm market is through reading Crossroads, FB10's monthly or fire insurance coverage. His farm magazines. He also makes magazine for insurance agents. farming background and in- it a point to attend fairs and to volvement in the Farm Bureau stop in to talk with the imple- ment dealers to learn about the new equipment that has be- come available. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 21 VCRs offer home entertainment convenience to rural families Just a few years ago, you typical farm family like yours Consider first which format probably had little idea of what with a busy work schedule. With relatives or neighbors who own a VCR (video cassette recorder) a VCR, favorite news or enter- VCR units have. you may wish was, let alone put one at the tainment programs could be to select the same format so top of your Christmas wish list. recorded for viewing at a later, that you can share tapes of pre- But since the VCR unit was in- more convenient, time. With a recorded movies or television troduced to the consumer mar- VCR, affordable family movie programs. ket five or six years ago, the entertainment can be pur- If you plan to rent pre- product has seen phenomenal chased or rented through local recorded movies through a lo- consumer acceptance. video stores for viewing at cal video outlet, keep in mind Today there is a VCR in ap- home. that most of these stores have proximately 20 million Ameri- Thanks to the law of supply plentiful VHS cassette movies, can homes, and if the Christ- and demand, this convenience but fewer Beta record cassettes. mas wishes of retail marketers is surprisingly affordable. Costs The next buying decision is to come true, a holiday sales for the unit have continued to select the brand or brands that surge will increase the number fall. A VCR that would have cost you will consider. VCR sales- significantly. $800 five years ago can be pur- people will tell you that brand Not only will more and more chased for about $.300 today. names are not as important as homes have VCRs, but applica- Of course, you can choose a the features. There is a great tions are being expanded in "basic" unit for less than that, deal of truth in that advice schools and businesses. Many or if you want to pile on the ex- since nearly all VCRs sold in the companies are using VCRs in tras, you can run up the tab to U.S. are built abroad, even sales presentations, employee $1,000 or more! many of the units which bear training and information pro- If you are considering buying well-known American appliance grams. As home VCR units be- a VCR for your family this year, names. From Zenith to Toshiba, come more commonplace, or- there are some guidelines to Fisher and Hitachi, the quality ganizations like Farm Bureau observe and decisions to make will probably not vary con- may use video "brochures" to before you make your purchase. siderably. introduce new services and pro- Your first buying decision is Choose options based on how grams. The list of applications which VCR tape format to you plan to use the VCR in your throughout our society will con- select: VHS or Beta. The VHS home. A key option relates to tinue to grow. format is by far the most programming ability. This What are the reasons for the popular, representing about means the number of days in rapid growth and popularity of 80% of the VCR units sold in advance the unit can be pro- the VCR?The major factors are the consumer market. However, grammed to record. Units are the appeal of home entertain- there are those who argue that available which can be pro- ment convenience, and afford- Beta gives a higher quality pic- gram med anywhere from one to able pricing. ture than VHS tapes. How will 14 days ahead. Imagine, for example, the you decide? leisure time benefits for the 22 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 Programming ability also ap- wireless. The wired type is just plies to the events option. This what it suggests. The handheld is a key buying decision. A VCR remote control box is con- with a one-event feature means nected by a cord to the VCR. that you can program the unit The wireless type operates on to automatically record one TV a signal to the electronic "eye" show. If you choose a unit with on the VCR. This is the ideal in a four-event option, you could convenience, but this option record up to four times without also adds to the cost. reprogramming. For example, Before you buy, talk with you could record at 7 p.m. Sun- other VCR owners and obtain day, 10 p.m. Tuesday and at consumer information. Then, 4-H two other times. when you shop for your VCR, Another commonly offered tell the salesperson exactly how FOR YOUTH option is the "cable ready" feature. This option allows you plan to use it in your home. Good planning and analysis on FOR AMERICA households which have access your part before you purchase a to cable to record stations high on the VHF band. However, VCR will save you money and 4-H you will be happy knowing that since few rural residents have cable, this option would be of you bought a leisure time prod- MAKES uct that truly meets your fam- little interest to some. ily's needs. LEARNING The remote control option of- fers another set of choices to FUN ... the VCR buyer. You can select either a wired remote control or JOIN TODAY Just in time for Christmas! Most major brands avai/able at discounts of 20 % - 60 % to you as a participating member of the Family Saver. Appliances Miscellaneous Freezers Furniture Dishwashers Carpeting Washers & Dryers Box Springs & Mattresses Refrigerators Photography Equipment ------------- Ranges Lawn & Garden Equipment Annual Fee: Only $20 Small Appliances Power Tools Microwave Ovens Lamps Complete and return Fireplaces this coupon today! Sporting Goods Wood Furnaces Archery Equipment Luggage DYES! Enroll me in Family Saver today! Enclosed is my Hunting Equipment Watches $20 check or money order (payable to Michigan Farm Bureau) Pool & Game Tables Musical Equipment for one year use of the Family Saver Buyers' program. (Most all brands of Lawn Furniture rods and reels) DPlease send complete information about the Family Saver. Name Electronic Equipment Video Cassette Recorders FaRml] Address Stereos Scanners BUreaU MEMBER SERVICE City, State, Zip Televisions (most major lines) FB Membership No. All merchandise is brand new and carries full factory warranties with nationwide local service. SEND COUPON TO: Michigan Farm Bureau, Member Services, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 2.3 •• Feedina Program Costs A Uttle - Returns A Lot Countrymark Hi-Tech Swine Feeds are specially for- mulated to meet the nutritional demands of modern hogs with superior genetic capabilities for faster gains, more efficient feed conversions and higher carcass quality. For starting, growing, finishing, breeding - Hi-Tech Swine Feeds bring the latest nutritional advancements from agricultural experiment stations, land grant universities and Cooperative Research Farms, Inc., sup- ported in part by Countrymark, Incorporated. You owe it to yourself to let your Countrymark representative demonstrate your possibilities with a computer. Evaluate quickly and simply your estimates of cost, break-even selling or purchase prices or the value of corn fed to hogs. Countr Fn.Ao;OQ.fi AT&T and Farm Bureau "A Partnership Farm Bureau members can count on" \ .... < For information on how you can receive a 30 % discount on AT&T computers, please fill out the coupon below or dial 1-800-247-1212, extension 99. Software for farm, home and business available at member discount prices. Call collect 616-388-3000. -------------------- CllPHERE -----------------..., Yes, I want to know more about AT&T special discount to Farm Bureau Farmers. I I I am a: o Student o I would like to be contacted by Approximate budget I o Farmer/producer o Other AT&T Marketing promptly for the computer I Commodities: _ o I have a computer --Model-- o I am planning to make a buying o Less than $1,000.00 I o I am considering buying decision for a computer o $l,OOO.0Q-$3,OOO.OO o Commodity Trader computer a o In the next month o $3,000.00-$5,000.00 r o Educator o I am a Farm Bureau member o In the next 3 months o More than $5,000.00 I o In the next 6 months I Name _ I MAIL TO: I Address _ AT&T I City State Zip _ Attn: Paul E. Split : 781 Kenmoor Southeast I Phone (__ ) County Grand Rapids, MI 49506 I ----------------------------------- 1 The Discussion Topic is used by Community Ac- tion Groups for monthly polley discussions. Update on African Famine Uas U.S. Aid Uelped? The continuing famine situa- African continent. Ethiopia is Outmoded transportation tion in Ethiopia and the the size of Texas, New Mexico equipment also handicaps food Republic of the Sudan domi- and Oklahoma combined, and distribution, he said. "The nated the news this past sum- Sudan is the size of the United logical method for transporting mer. Rock stars focused atten- States east of the Mississippi grain to central Sudan is by rail tion on the problem with the River. but the nation's 50- or 50-year- widely publicized concert, ,"Both countries have a old railroad is only operating at record and video, "USA for limited railroad system and about .30% capacity. Africa." Charitable organiza- almost no highway system. The "As an illustration," Mair tions and the U.S. government high plateaus of the rugged said, "the railroad is reported to donated millions of dollars to mountains of Ethiopia make it have .300 diesel engines and only the drought-stricken areas to all but impossible to build and 75 or 80 of them are operation- buy food, medical aid and maintain roads in many sec- al. One suggestion would be to transportation equipment. tions of the country. Officials send some good diesel engine Now, a few months later, the tell us that over one-half of the mechanics and some spare glare of the media spotlight has population of Ethiopia live more parts over there and get those faded somewhat, but many than one-half day's walk from engines operating again:' problems and challenges re- the nearest road." main. This month we'll focus on Mair said another problem Polltl~al Policies some of the basic geographical complicating the transportation Limit Progress and political factors that con- of food to Africa is our govern- Mair believes that political tributed to the famine disaster ment's cargo preference re- systems in many African coun- in Ethiopia and Sudan, and we'll quirement. "Officials responsi- tries result in policies that do have an update on how condi- ble for the food aid programs in not put a high priority on food tions have improved since the the countries we visited were production. summer. critical of the way cargo prefer- "The pro-communist govern- Andrew J. Mair, a former in- ence legislation was handi- ment that controls Ethiopia has ternational trade consultant capping their programs. We adopted policies such as the with AfBf, traveled to the were informed that the cost of collectivization of farms, which famine-stricken areas of Africa delivering grain from the U.S. to has reduced food production. early this summer. He was inter- the port of Mombasa in Kenya They prefer to control prices viewed by AfBF's Farm Bureau on a foreign flag vessel was $.30 and keep food cheap for the News upon his return. per metric ton and the cost of people in the cities. They can- using a U.S. vessel was $100 or not see the advantage of using Transportation Systems more per ton. the market system that has Contribute to Problem "This means that large quan- worked in the countries which In the interview, Mair said tities of money intended for are now providing them with that transportation problems famine victims in Africa is go- food. added to the suffering caused ing instead to U.S. shipping "Recent changes in the gov- by the summer drought. companies. The legislation to ernment of Sudan have caused "The problem is getting the change the cargo preference delays in approval of clearances food distributed to the people provisions of P.L. 480 deserves for moving commodities. Some in the isolated areas," he said. the support of all who are con- of the new people are reluctant "Ethiopia and Sudan are two of tributing to famine relief in to make decisions because the largest countries on the Africa." those decisions may not be ap- proved by their superiors." 28 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 Mair also cited the military some areas, seeds were lost to But finding and implementing conflicts that are occurring marauding insects. In others, long-term solutions that will along many borders in Africa as the rainfall was still too sparse. permanently eliminate starva- major deterrents to the prog- Most people in Ethiopia's tion in this area will be much ress these countries can make drought-afflicted regions will more difficult. Supporting toward serving their human need another year of food aid, agricultural research at our needs. she predicted. land grant universities will be Although 1985 rainfall was important, especially as it Conditions Improving, generally adequate, grain pro- relates to improving arid land But Belp Still Needed duction is likely to be abnor- farming techniques to allow Some progress has been mally low, with severe shortfalls people at least a subsistent made in the famine-stricken expected in parts of central level of food production. regions of Africa. According to Ethiopia, Africa News reported. U.S. farmers can also con- Africa News magazine, rainfall There are some 7.9 million per- tinue to support P.L. 480, and has returned to normal levels sons affected by drought, but point out how the added cost of across much of the continent in as a result of improvements in cargo preference restrictions recent months. The U.N. Food food distribution, the number of hinder private and governmen- and Agriculture Organization displaced persons has de- tal efforts to aid other nations. (FAO)and other agencies are creased. And from a political stand- forecasting better yields and Relief workers have expressed point, there's a role for the U.S. less need for food aid. The particular concern about ram- to play in helping to resolve the magazine' notes, however, that pant malnutrition in areas conflicts that handicap the "experts monitoring Africa's where the government is fight- economic development of many food needs stress that recent ing insurgents, such as Tigre, African nations. Quarrels and gains should not obscure the a~d about a U.N. refugee reset- outright warfare have hindered necessity of continued emer- tlement plan for 317,000 per- the reforms these countries gency aid in some areas and sons in Harar Province, for need to make in order to move further work toward long-term which logistical and medical aid their economies away from an self-sufficiency in others." is desperately needed. almost total reliance on agricul- Relief groups try to provide In Sudan, an estimated 8.4 ture and toward a modern 50 kilograms (110 Ibs.) of food, million people remain in a state economic mix that will boost mostly grain, each month to of emergency, with 1.5 million the living standards of their people who have returned to of these displaced. Although citizens. their land but still cannot feed some 500,000 have reunited Many less developed nations themselves. But, because of with their families and some in other parts of the world have slow delivery of food from the have resumed farming, serious progressed from being recipi- Red Sea port of Assab, the peo- problems still plague this vast ents of food aid, to economic ple sometimes receive even country as it awaits the harvest: diversification, to prosperity. smaller amounts. a shortage of trucks as well as And history has shown that one It appears that the best poor road conditions; inade- of the priorities for these newly Ethiopia can expect in the next quate grain storage, especially prosperous countries is to pur- year is a milder food crisis, if large quantities of food arrive chase U.S. food products to im- even though near normal rain during and after harvest; and prove their standard of living. has returned to much of the malnutrition. country. Water quality is suspect in Discussion Questions many areas of Sudan and there • Have you contacted your con- Small Barvest Expected is an increasing danger of the gressmen to express support Despite Rainfall spread of water-borne diseases. for Farm Bureau policy on The land is greener now, but A major relief effort will remain cargo preference and P.L. 480 crops are still not growing, necessary for some time, partly programs? World Vision International's because of the transport bottle- • Have members of your group Nancy Sandburg told the maga- necks. contributed to the famine- zine. Many farmers returned to relief efforts? their land this year with Conclusion donated" Agropaks" of seeds The humanitarian attention and hand tools, she reported, focused on the famine region of but few expect a good crop. In Africa this summer helped meet the immediate and crucial food needs of millions of starving people. RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 29 Legislative Review FB has been involved in drafting However, the Michigan House (continued from page 7) language to protect the public defeated these efforts (by close and farmers from competitive votes) to petition the U.S. Con- Uniform Commercial Code sales of a questionable product. gress to constitutionally require - S.B. .362, which would elimi- FB did not oppose the bill when a balanced budget. nate any obligation on a buyer amended, however, it was final- Michigan would have been the of farm products having a lien Iy sent back to committee. .3.3rdstate to pass such a reso- on them, passed the Senate lution. It takes .34 states to prior to summer recess. [t was ,force the issue. However, his- Recreational Trespass Act heard in the House Agriculture - H.B. 4576 will be considered tory has shown that Congress Committee for the first time on acts when the states come again later this session. A Oct . .3. Tremendous opposition close to having the required meeting has been held with the was generated by the lending number. Department of Natural Re- institutions. Those opposed to the pro- sources and the attorney gener- FB scheduled three meetings posals couldn't politically op- aI's representative to work out with bank, farm credit, grain pose a balanced budget so they possible clarifying language and agri-dealer, livestock and played on fear of a "runaway dealing with the civil liability food processing interests to at- convention.' , section. FB has supported the tempt to work out the differ- Even if .34 states act at some legislation providing the land- ences. A compromise in con- point, Congress itself would be owner is fuJJyprotected. cept was agreed to. most afraid of a convention and On Oct. 24, a substitute bill would act to prevent it. In any was considered and reported Michigan's Debt - The event, 38 states must ratify any out of the House committee. As state's debt of $1. 7 bi Ilion amendment to the Constitution. amended, the bill provides for a ($800 million accumulated and notification procedure and both $900 million fiscal deficit) was paid off as of Nov. 8, which has Gypsy Moth - The MDA has lender and buyer protection. The buyer would not be at risk been caJJed"Solvency Day." As announced a plan for a spray a result, the income tax rate program to try to control the and would buy a product free of spread of moth infestation in obligation for double payment will drop from the present 5.35% to 5.1 % because .25% the 37 lower counties. It will, when properly notified by the lender. In addition, the com- however, be impossible' to eradi- was earmarked for debt repay- cate the pest. Those counties promise recognizes the fragile ment. Also, the previously ear- are under a federal quarantine condition that lending agencies marked 10~ per pack cigarette are in at the present time. tax will now go to the general prohibiting certain plants, fund. wood, vehicles and other ob- If the House passes the sub- Under present law, the in- jects from being moved to non- stitute, it must go back to the come tax rate will return to the infested areas without a cer- Senate for agreement. old 4.6% rate on Oct. 1, 1986. tificate of inspection. The worst infestation is in a Prison Farms Bill - H.B. However, there is a controversy on whether it should be cut to 200-sQuare mile area in Gratiot, 4491, which would permit Isabella and Midland counties. 4.6% Dec. 1, 1985 or May 1, prison farms to sell farm prod- 1986. Federal, state and local funds ucts in the open market, was will be used. Local government considered in the House Correc- will control the spray program. tions Committee early in the Federal Balanced Budget The main reason that this session and reported out. FB ex- - Twice in this session the dangerous pest got out of con- pressed opposition on the basis Michigan Senate has passed, by trol was citizen opposition to that products produced by pris- . a bipartisan vote, resolutions spraying, court injunctions and oners could be sold in competi- (HJR "A" and substitute HJR lack of adequate funding. The tion with farmers and also a "C") calling on the U.S. Con- economic loss due to loss of serious concern on the protec- gress to write an amendment to forest products is beyond tion, purity and integrity of the the U.S. Constitution requiring estimation. food product. a federal balanced budget. Such MDA has been involved in an amendment would be sub- drafting language that would mitted to the states for ratifica- Lansing legislative topics are tion. If Congress failed to do reviewed by Robert E. Smith, assure adequate inspection and this, then a constitutional con- Mf'B senior legislative counsel. vention would be caJJedfor that purpose . .30 RURAL LIVING, DECEMBER 1985 FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE FARM EQUIPMENT MISCELLANEOUS REAL ESTATE DOGS Complete Line of "ew and Used Irrl .. Satellite Antenna Brokers "eeded - Condo In "ew Smyrna Beach, Florida, For Sale: Registered Australian gatlon Equipment - Also equipment no experience required. Buy direct from for rent by week or month. Available in Shepherd pups. Good workers and for manure pumping and spreading by distributor. Bypass middleman. Whole- December and January. Reasonable loyal family friends. Bob Thuemmel. gun. tanker. or Injection. Plummer sale $499. Retail $1,195. Call day or rates. 517-39.3-7857 (12-20p) 8778 Thuemmel Road, Port Austin. Mich. Supply. Inc .. 1-800-632-7731. night: 303-636-0663 or write: Antenna, 48467. Phone 517-738-8667. (12-2t-21 p) (1-12t-23p) P.O. Box 15236, Colorado Springs, Col- orado 80935. (2-tfn-33b-ts) WA"TED: ".1. cornplcker and ".U. field equipment. Phone 517-523-2803. Spedall Rural mall bOll flip-up CLASSIFIED AD POLICY evenings. (2-12t-10p-ts) signals. Tells In a glance if mall has been delivered. Eliminate those un- Uog Equipment - Dei-Air heat ex- necessary trips in the rain and snow. changers. Osborne feeders. K.G. John- Ideal Christmas gifts. Money back guar- - Farm Bureau members pay 25 cents per word for all son farrowing crates. Chore-Time feed- antee. $3.00 each plus 85( postage: or 3 classified advertisements, Ing. Mix-Mill systems. Hamilton Distri- for $10 postage paid. Order yours today. -All other advertisers pay 50 cents per word for one insertion buting Company. 616-751-5161. Don Holmes. 4436 Northington Dr., (6-12t-17p-ts) Adrian, Mich. 49221. (11-2t-50p) and 45 cents per word for two or more consecutive insertions of the same ad, Grain Dryers - Stormor Ezee-Dry. Farm Will Forms - Make your own will easily! -All advertisements are subject to a I5-word minimum Fans Automatic. Used Dryers. PTO and Ready to fill In. Mall $3.95 (2 for $5.95) Automatic. Hamilton Distributing Com- to: Forms. Box 3609, New Haven, CT charge, including member ads. pany.616-751-5161. (6-12t-17p-ts) 06525. (12-6t-24p-ts) - Please indicate if you are a Farm Bureau member. -The deadline for ads is the first Monday of the month Irrigation Pipe - 5.250 ft. of 6 in.: Adorablel Doll's furry snowsuits In- 1.050 ft. of 4 In. Ford V-8 Gorman Rupp cludes matching teddy bear. $12.75. Sue preceding publication. pump. water winch traveler. Phone Ann Teichman, 1371 S. Aiken, Owosso, - All ads must be pre.paid and may be pre-paid up to one 313-522-0162. (12-6t-20p) Mich. 48867. (12-18p) year in advance. Wanted: Samson tractor and / or Wlnler Is a pace apart - apart from -It is the responsibility of the advertiser to re-insert the ad on parts: any condition. Call collect 517- the rush. Bed and Breakfast at a month-by-month or year-by-year basis. 669-9920. (12-1 Op) Ludington, with 175 crosscountry ski -The publisher has the right to reject any advertising copy trails, snowshoes (provided, gratis) toboggans. and its hot tub/spa, Is a submitted. place where your part Is to enjoy. For - No ads will be taken over the phone. LIVESTOCK reservations call collect 616-843-9768. ( 12-2t-42p) Fill out form below and mail to: Milking Shorthorn: Young bulls. year- Kural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909 Whydie without a will? Two legal "Will lings and calves for sale. Write or visit Forms" and easy Instructions. Only Stanley M. Powell and Family. Ingleside Farm. Route 2. 3248 Powell Hwy .• Ionia. Mich. 48846. (1O-4t-27p) $4 ... Order Todayl Guaranteedl Company, Box 1022-MF, Prior. OK 74.362. ( 11-6t-22p-ts) TY- ------------------------ Name Dieterle Corrledale sheep, give shear pleasure. Breeding stock. Blue ribbon neeced nock. Spinning Fleece's. phone 313-429-7874. (5-12t-15p) Address Duroc Boars and Gilts sound and FOR nOMEMAKERS durable. Delivery available. Jim Prevlch. 8147 Forrister Road. Adrian. Mich. 49221. 517-265-4112. Guardian Service glass coversl Pyrex (6-12t-18p) and Corning percolator parts. Steven- OFarm Bureau member ONon-member son's. Box 3392A. Orange, CA 92665. Performance tested Angus breeding (9-4t-15p-ts) Run the following ad in the issue(s): stock and crossbred club calves. Rea- sonably priced. Delivery available. Bord- Uoney recipes for baking and cook. ner Angus Farms. Sturgis. Mich. Call Ing. 20 recipes only $1.00. Send a SASE 616-651.8353. (7-6t-20p) to K &: D Sales, Box 417, Fraser, Mich. 48026. (12-2t-20p) Recipes: Fantastic venison, buffalo, NURSERY STOCK salmon. Six recipes for $3.00. SASE. Box 197, Haslett, Mich. 48840 (11-2t-15p) Berry Plants - Raspberries, strawber- ries. blueberries. currants. gooseberries. others. Free catalog. Maklelskl Berry Nursery. 7130 Platt Road. Dept. RL, Ypsi- lanti, Mich. 48197. Phone 313-434-3673. (11-12t-22b) REAL ESTATE Michigan certified strawberry plants available as low as $59 per thousand. 15 varieties all grown on fumigated sandy Free Catalog of Property 20 •. Hun- loam soil. Krohne Plant Farms, Rt. 6, Box dreds of listings coast to coast. 586. Dowagiac, Mich. 49047. Phone 616- American Farm lX Investment Digest. 424-3450. (11-8t-32p) 3546 Watson. St. Louis, MO 631.39. Phone 800-.325-9943. (12-23p-ts) American chestnut seedlings by mall order. Coldstream Farm. 20308 Freesoll Lapeer-Storybook Farm - Cobble- Road, Freesoll. Mich. 49411. Phone stone house, all re-donel 3 bedrooms. 616-464-5809. (l2-2t-15p) I II> baths. family room with deck. garage. barns, all on 179 acres with Uybrld Poplar, as little as 12( each. possible splits, 5 road frontages. Other trees and shrubs. Coldstream $190.000. Land contract terms. Harvey Words lnsertions Total Due _ Farm, 20.30T Freesoll Road, Freesoil. J. Wilson. Inc .. Westwood Branch Mich. 49411. Phone 616-464-5809. 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