BUY YOUR NEXT CAR AT 1% OVER FACTORY INVOICE Sav-On Cars is furnishing Farm Bureau members important car-cost information which will save you substantial time and money when shopping for your next car. * "Due to demand, some models may not be available for prompt delivery. Save On Cars With Your Farm Bureau HERE'S HOW: • Select as many cars or trucks as you are seriously considering. Fill in the appropriate information on the coupon below. • Within one business day of receiving your request we' will return to you a computer printout personalized for the specific model(s) you have selected. This Car-Option Printout will show you the wholesale and retail cost for the base model and for each and every option available on that particular model. • You pick the options YOU want, at home, without being pressured. Then, at the bottom of your Car- Option Printout you will find a simple form to fill out which will help you calculate the final dealer in- voice cost, including any mandatory charges. • Use this price to negotiate your best deal with your local dealer, OR, if we list a participating factory- authorized dealer in your general area, you can buy the car from him at an average of just 1 % over dealer invoice. -------------------------------------------------- Please send me a price and options printout for each model listed below. PRICES: $9 for 1 car, $17 for 2 cars, $24 for 3 cars. IMPORTANT Model Year Make Model Style Name EXAMPLE 1987 BUICK LESABRE 4-DOOR Address LIMITED SEDAN City State ___ Zip Farm Bureau Membership # _ Here is my: OCheck OMastercard or Visa Card # _ Expiration Date _ Mail with payment to: Sav-On Cars 30301 Northwestern Hwy. Farmington Hills. Michigan 48018 -------------------------------------------------- VOL. 64 NO.5 May 1987 A Publication of the Michigan Farm Bureau About the Cover Washington's famous cherry blossoms were in full bloom to greet the MFB Washington Legislative Seminar par- ticipants. Boost Milk Production By In This Issue Up to 15 Pounds Farmers' Special Interests Receive Warm Per Cow Per Day. Reception in Washington MFB Legislative Leaders New Dairy Pro RC works with hay, haylage, corn silage ... or any combination. 7 made the rounds of Washington roots policy message. offices to present their grass- Dairy Pro RC is a complete dairy feed MFB Takes the Lead with New Promotion and that scientifically regulates protein and carbohydrate sources to enable your Education Plan Other FB states are watching with in- cows to use the feed more efficiently. Dairy Pro RC helps provide a steady flow of protein and energy in the optimal 10 terest as MFB launches a new committee agriculture understanding. effort to promote amount, precise type and correct balance for a more profitable ratio of Asparagus Marketing Plan Makes a Fresh Start milk to feed. In tests at the Cooperative Research Farm in Tully, New York, where Dairy 13 Michigan growers are implementing boost fresh market sales. a promotion campaign to Pro RC was developed, Dairy Pro RC in- creased milk production by up to 15 pounds per cow per day, compared to a conventionally balanced ration 1. Columns Best of all, Dairy Pro RC achieves this Legislative Review . 4 Agrinomic Update .17 increase in milk production without in- creasing daily feed intake. President's Message 6 Grassroots Perspective .21 To learn more about this innovative new Country Almanac. .12 Farm Bureau Market Place .23 dairy feed, contact your Countrymark feed specialist. Rural Exchange .. .14 Advertisers' Index . .23 Rural Living is Published Monthly: on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bureau Infor- mation and Public Relations Division. except during July and August when a combined issue is published on July 15. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Mich. 48917. Post Office Box 30960 (zip 48909): phone 517-323-7000. extension 510. Subscriptions: $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 Form News. name changed to Michigan Form News Rural Liuing Dec. 1. 1981. Third-class postage paid at Lansing. Michigan. and at additional mailing offices. Editorial: Connie Turbin. Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor; Marcia ount~ ~A~D Ditchie. Officers: Associate Editor; Kimberly Marshell. Associate Editor and Production Michigan Farm Bureau President. Manager. Jack Laurie. Cass City: Vice President. Wayne Wood. Marlette; Administrative Director. Charles Burkett: Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Tom Parker; P. 0. Box 1206 • Delaware, Ohio 43015 Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. • u.s. Patent Number 4.118.513 Directors: District 1. Marlin Outman. Constantine; District 2. Blaine VanSickle. Marshall; District 3 . .. U.S. Patent Number 4.615,891 James Sayre. Belleville; District 4. Charleen Thompson. Freeport; District 5. Mark Smuts. Charlotte; District 6. U.S. Patent Number 4,617,276 Jack Laurie. Cass City; District 7. Larry Snider. Hart; District 8. Lyle LeCronier. Freeland; District 9. Robert 1 Production increases attributable to Dairy Pro RC Gregory. Traverse City: District 10. Margaret Kartes. West Branch; District 11. Robert Wahmhoff. Baraga. At- are based on controlled experiments and are not large: David Conklin. Corunna; Wayne Wood. Marlette: Richard Leach. Saginaw. Farm Bureau Women: directly projectable due to differences in manage- ment practices, genetic potential, available for- Diane Horning. Manchester. Young Farmers: Ed Cagney. Scotts. ages, etc. FD-8702-1 MA Y 1987. RURAL LIVING 3 Legislative Review Washington Corporation would be subordinate and accountable to the federal con- transportation research council, etc. Details of the final proposal will, no trol board. doubt, be changed. The proposal is not consistent with Two other bills (now part of S.B. Minimum Wage - Identical current AFBF policy concerning FCS 151 and S.B. 156) would create a • bills (H.R. 1834 and S. 387) centralization/ decentralization. 0 Critical Road Fund of $18 million an- have been introduced in the House nually to help maintain the northern and Senate which would increase the Michigan road system essential to federal minimum wage from the forestry and agriculture. present $3.35 per hour to $4.65 per Lansing The introduction of this package hour by 1990. The hourly minimum marks the beginning of a very con- would be increased to $3.85 on Jan. troversial transportation issue. As it 1, 1988; $4.25 on Jan. 1, 1989, unfolds, there will be numerous other and to $4.65 in 1990 . Highway Legislation - A ten bills or proposals in the House along • . bill package (S.B. 150 - 159) with the various opinions of several Agricultural Marketing Orders- has been introduced and is currently transportation groups. • The Senate has tabled an in hearings. Key provisions include: amendment that would allow the -No change in state gas tax (15 Tax Exemptions - H.B. 4073 Federal Trade Commission to investi- cents per gallon). • would require that all exemp- gate and regulate agricultural market- - No change in present transporta- tions be reconsidered every five years ing orders. Since 1981, only USDA tion revenue formula for state beginning in 1988. Exemptions, in has been authorized to investigate (39.1 %), county (39.1 %), cities and one form or another, represent $8.7 and analyze the marketing orders. towns (21.8%). billion. FB has attended the subcom- The amendment would eliminate lan- -Creates a Transportation Ec- mittee meetings. Agricultural exemp- guage that prohibits FTC's oversight onomic Development Authority tions have had some discussion. of marketing orders, thus inviting ac- funded by revenue from increased tion by those who have voiced op- vehicle title transfer fees. Tax Reform and School Fi- position to federal marketing orders -Continues 90/10 provision, i.e., • nance - Several ideas and and agricultural marketing exemp- 90% of all state highway revenue programs are surfacing but nothing tions for cooperatives granted under must be spent on maintenance of will be done until the Michigan the Capper-Volstead Act. existing highways. School Finance Study is completed -Changes the snow fund formula in Sept. or Nov. FB is represented Farm Credit System - At an from one based on snow accumula- on the 40-member study commis- • early April hearing of the tion to using historical distribution sion. House Agriculture Subcommittee on patterns. Conservation, Credit, and Rural - Raises vehicle title transfer fee Grain Insurance - Three bills Development, a spokesperson for the from $2 to $10. • have been introduced dealing U.S. General Accounting Office out- -Cuts truck diesel fuel sticker fees with a proposed grain insurance lined a plan to rescue the FCS. Cen- and increases the registration fees. fund. H.B. 4198 would provide for tral to the proposal is the creation of - Permits local governments to levy an insurance on grain dealers. The a new "federal control board" which local gas taxes by vote of the elec- concept is similar to H.B. 4203 and would virtually have total control torate: up to five cents per gallon for H.B. 4205 to provide protection for over the entire system. The board counties or combinations over farmers. would have full authority to approve 600,000 population, and two cents All three bills have been sent to or reject: per gallon if the population is under the House Agriculture Subcommittee -Operating and business plans 600,000. with the intent of drafting the con- -Changes in management struc- - Allows local vehicle registration cept into a single bill. Reps. Spaniola ture fees up to $10, real estate transfer and Randall, the respective bill spon- -Accounting practices fees up to $10 per transfer, or up to sors, have agreed that a referendum - Determinations and plans of the $3 per thousand of value. is important. Capital Corporation - Allows counties to form charter A fourth bill (H.B. 4204) intro- - Hiring, firing and salaries of taxing authorities which can levy up duced by Rep. Randall would place senior officials to five mills property tax for five a statutory lien on grain sold or in - Investment plans years for road improvements. Re- storage if the farmer has written The Farm Credit Administration, quires a vote. Also allows "impact evidence of ownership. The concept the Farm Credit Capital Corporation, fees" on new developments. and the Farm Credit System Funding The above are key provisions, (continued on page 19) however, there are many others such as permitting bonding, creating a 4 RURAL LIVING, MA Y 1987 1987 MACMA SPRING SALE Name _ Address _ 1st Phone 2nd Phone _ ORDER DEADLINE: May 6, 1987 DELIVERY: Week of May 18, 1987 Quantity Price Total Quantity Price Total FRESH MIGUGAN ASPARAGUS MIODGAN MEATS Asparagus 20 lb. $17.95 ~tW _ Bratwurst 6 lb. $12.90 fancy hydro-cooled spears Precooked pork and beef Asparagus 10 lb. $10.90 Ready to grill fancy hydro-cooled spears Lemon Bratwurst 6 lb. $15.00 __ Precooked yea I. pork, lemon and chive, a Munich, Germany white- FROZEN FRUIT wurst recipe very mild, ready to Strawberries Whole, 30 Ibs. $24.80 grill 4 parts fruit, 1 part sugar $15.90 __ So-Long Hot Dogs Red Raspberries IQF,10 lb. $19.75 12/1 lb. vac. packs Individual Quick Frozen Ham (Peefs) $2.10 Apple Slices IQF,10 lb. $6.75 MACMA Vintage per lb. (citric acid, Vitamin C) 4/4 lb. average hams per case Pineapple Chunks 30 lb. $32.80 Bacon thick cut $21.00 bush rippened, sweet, 6/5 lb. bags 12/1 lb., vac. packs Blackberries Marion, 30 lb. $38.50 Hickory Stick 4 lb. $10.75 Individually Quick Frozen Bulk Summer Sa usage FLORIDA amus WISCONSIN CHEESE - AA GRADE Grapefruit Seedless $12.75 Sharp Cheddar $12.00 4/5 bushel 4/1 lb. pkgs., vac pack ___ Oranges Valencia $12.75 Medium Cheddar $12.00 4/5 bushel 4/1 lb. pkgs., vac pack Grapefruit Sections No Sugar $22.35 Colby $11.50 24/16 oz. cans 4/1 lb. pkgs., vac pack Grapefruit Juice 48/6 oz. cans $14.85 Monterey Jack $11.50 Ready to drink 4/1 lb. pkgs., vac pack Sharp Cheddar Spread $15.00 FLORIDA AND MIOUGAN 6/1 lb. tubs FROZEN JUICE CONCENlRATES Nacho Spread $15.00 Orange Juice Cone. 5 to I $35.50 6/1 lb. tubs 24/12 oz. cans Florida per case Variety Spread $15.50 Grapefruit Juice Cone. 5 to I $18.95 6/1 lb. tubs 24/6 oz. cans Florida per case 2 Sharp, 2 Wine, 2 Swiss Almond Lemonade Cone. 4 to I $16.20 24/12 oz. cans Florida per case HOBIE'S SOUP Grape Juice Cone. 3 to I $25.95 24/12 oz. cans Michigan per case Cheddar Broccoli 12/8 oz. cups $12.00 Apple Gder Cone. 5 to 1 $13.75 Navy Bean With Ham $12.00 12/12 oz. cans Michigan per case 12/8 oz. cups TOTAL UNITS TOTALS _ Peanuts J umbo Skinless $2.75 20 oz. vac. pack can, Florida per can Pope orn India na $2.30 5 lb. bag per bag Contact your county Farm Bureau office for information on ordering. MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR lliESE SALES: 1987 FROZEN FRUIT SALE 1987 HOUDAY amus SALE Order Deadline: Wednesday, Aug. 26 Order Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 18 Delivery: September 16 through 25 Delivery: Week of December 7 raiiI mlCHIOBn'S • FBRm B8ST President's Message Congressmen Need Patience to Deal with Trade Issues You learn to appreciate the value of patience when you're waiting in the rain for a taxi in Washington, D.C., as we did several times when we were there in early April for the annual Washington Legislative Seminar. If you keep a steady post at the edge of the sidewalk, a taxi will pick you up sooner or later. - Some of the congressmen and aides that we talked with in Wash- ington could benefit from some lessons in patience, particularly when it comes to international trade issues. Nearly everyone was complaining about the balance of trade deficit and pointing to the need to do something ... anything ... about it. Some kind of trade legislation is a sure bet this year, John Datt, director of the American Farm Bureau Federation Washington office, told us. What concerns Datt and other Capitol Hill observers is that the bills being discussed teeter on the line between helping and hurting farmers. Help for one segment of the economy, he said, could result in retaliation against U.S. agriculture. For example, trade retaliation against Japanese microchip dumping could void years of negotiations with the Japanese to open their markets to our agricultural products, or worse, launch a trade war . Seeds Ironically, the proposed trade bills may be behind the times. The • President Laurie led county FB trade deficit appears to have bottomed out and trade statistics, adjusted Legislative Leaders on the or- for the current inflation rate, show that our balance of trade may even be ganization's annual Washington improving. Although the drop in the value of the dollar is not having a Legislative Seminar, March dramatic effect on farm trade, the change is beginning to be reflected in 31-April 3. trade statistics . • President Laurie and former The crucial point we tried to communicate to our congressmen is MFB President Elton Smith that we can't allow ourselves to be discouraged by a lack of short term paired up for the National Com- results when we have a sound strategy that will payoff in the long run. mission on Dairy Policy Hearing That strategy, in line with Farm Bureau policy, is to stick to the course in Hudson, Wis., April 6-7. set by the 1985 Farm Bill. Using lower grain prices to help us regain our Laurie is a member of the na- overseas markets will payoff. tional commission. Smith pre- Agricultural Economist Norm Rask of Ohio State University has sented testimony regarding calculated that lower priced U.S. grain is pushing down food prices in future dairy policy. developing countries, making meat more affordable, and fueling demand for feed grains. He estimates, however, that it will take two years or .April 8-10, President Laurie more for these changes to work their way through the system. toured MFB's Upper Peninsula That's where agriculture's traditional patience should come into play. and North regions for member- Farmers just don't scoop the seed out of the ground because the corn ship meetings with county hasn't grown up overnight. Now is the time to avoid destructive, quick- leaders and to make farm visits. fixes in our present farm law . • Dr. James Anderson, dean of It may be raining now, but believe me, there's a taxi just around the the MSU College of Agriculture corner. and Natural Resources, ex- J~f~ tended an invitation to President Laurie to address ANR depart- ment chairpersons on April 20 . • At the invitation of MDA Direc- tor Paul Kindinger, President Jack Laurie, President Laurie attended a dinner April Michigan Farm Bureau 22 to host a group of Belgian agricultural journalists during their tour of Michigan. 6 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1987 Farmers' Special Interests Receive Warm Reception in Washington By Donna Wilber W ashington, D.C. was dressed in its finest to re- ceive the 130 state and county legislative leaders and their assistants who were in the nation's capital for MFB's 27th annual grass- roots lobbying mission, March 31- April 3. Cherry and magnolia trees in full bloom decorated the city's his- toric sites and raised the spirits of the weary travelers, many of whom had delayed and bumpy flights caused by spring blizzards. Temperatures remained cool for the duration of their stay, but the reception they received from their congressmen, USDA and White House officials was warm. Nearly everywhere they went, it seemed, they found' positive reinforcement for Farm Bureau's positions on the pri- ority issues they had brought to Washington to "sell." Activities began Tuesday afternoon "On behalf of Farm Bureau and all ing what turned out to be more than with a legislative briefing by John the people of Michigan, thank you just a farm problem - it was a peo- Datt, AFBF's Washington office di- for the activities that went on here in ple problem. rector, and workshops to prepare this city after we suffered the di- "We suggested that to keep the them for the mission ahead. Dati told saster," Laurie said. "We came here economy of mid-Michigan intact, we the Michigan farmers that the organi- with a group representing agriculture needed help. The Michigan delega- zation will seek technical corrections across mid-Michigan looking to our tion went to work, forgot party lines, in the Tax Reform Act to raise the elected leaders for assistance in sol v- and really addressed the situation deduction from 25 % of a self-em- ployed taxpayer's health insurance (continued on next page) premium to 50 % . "We hope to get this change as well as remove the restriction that the self-employed cannot take the de- duction unless they provide' health insurance for their employees. It's doubtful that many self-employed taxpayers, especially farmers, can af- ford to furnish health insurance cov- erage to employees," he said. Congressmen Saluted for Flood Disaster Assistance During a breakfast meeting with Michigan's U.S. representatives, MFB President Jack Laurie saluted them for their bipartisan efforts in providing Rep. Howard Wolpe (center) discusses policy with Mark Smuts {left}, District 5 director, assistance to the state's flood-stricken and Ed Cagney (right), Young Farmer representative on the MFB Board, during a farmers last fall. breakfast meeting. MA Y 1987, RURAL LIVING 7 (continued from page 7) "What we really need are better Senators Get Good Reviews rules of trade for agriculture. We that was so crucial. In the course of a need to tell the Japanese, for exam- The Thursday morning breakfast few days, you put together the type ple, that we want the same access to with Michigan's two senators received of relief program that was effective," your markets that you have to ours," good reviews from the group. Both he said. he said. He told the group that ef- addressed the priority issues on the In their congressional district dis- forts are underway to develop a plan legislative leaders' agendas. cussions, legislative leaders found for international agricultural trade, Sen. Carl Levin told the leaders good support for their efforts to gain but admitted, "it won't be easy." that the "burden of proof" to make equitable tax treatment by being Lyng predicted that despite efforts changes in the 1985 Farm Bill rests allowed to deduct the cost of their to make major changes in the 1985 with those who are calling for those health insurance as a business ex- changes. Farm Bill, it will remain "pretty much pense. Congressman Bob Carr (0- as last year's." The strength of those "We passed a farm bill in 1985. It 6th District) gave them more than who don't want changes appears to wasn't a perfect farm bill, but it was just a sympathetic ear. That same outweigh any other efforts, he said. the best we could do at that time" day, he introduced a bill to allow Lyng was presented with a special he said. "We ought to let that far~ farmers and other self-employed certificate of appreciation from An- bill work. It's a five-year farm bill and people to deduct 100% of the cost trim County FB president Dean Veli- that means a little bit of stability in of their health insurance premiums as quette for his membership in the or- your lives for a change. a business expense on their federal ganization. (continued on next page) tax returns. The bill, H.R. 1892, has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee. Following the breakfast, legislative leaders headed for congressional of- fices to meet with their represen- tatives or aides for further discussions on their four priority issues - agri- cultural credit, international trade, tax reform concerns, support for the 1985 Farm Bill and opposition to the proposed "Family Farm Act." USDA Secretary Lyng Calls for Better Rules of Trade The farmers of this nation can't compete with the treasuries of other countries, USDA Secretary Richard Lyng told the Michigan group during a meeting at the USDA Wednesday afternoon. Competitors of U.S. agri- cultural producers are getting their share of the world market "plus our share" because of subsidies, he said. USDA Secretary Richard Lyng receiued a special certificate of appreciation from An. Bill Brewer (left), Clare County Legislatiue Leader, presented Rep. Bill Schuette with a trim County FB for his membership there. "grabber" mug during a breakfast meeting. 8 RURAL LIVING, MA Y 1987 Stoneman Believes Trip Builds Stronger Relationships By Kimberly Marshell more phone calls, than if I had not had the chance to talk to him and T here was a special person ac- companying the 130 Michigan farmer contingent on their trip to Washington D.C. in April, Out- standing Young Farm Woman Karen meet him on several occasions. Stoneman. Karen, of Gratiot County, was awarded the trip after winning the Outstanding Young Farm Woman Alan Tracy, special assistant to President contest at state annual meeting. Reagan for Agricultural Trade and Food While in Washington, she attended Assistance, spoke to the group in the Old all the same meetings the legislative Executive Office Building. Vice President leaders did. Bush was scheduled to attend, but was "Our visit really helped to build up called to accompany Reagan to Capitol Hill to support the veto of the Transportation a good trust with the congressmen Bill. from the individual standpoint and, of course, every visit that Farm (continued from page 8) Bureau has builds a stronger relation- "I am leary about making any ship," Karen said. "It's great if you changes in the bill and people who can come here by yourself, but com- ing with a group you just have that Karen Stoneman interviews MFB President suggest changes, as far as I'm con- Jack Laurie for the Farm and Garden cerned, have a very heavy burden of much more influence talking to (con- Show, televised by WNEM, Saginaw. proof that the farm bill is not working gressmen) than even back in the dis- and that there is something better. trict. " "I really gained a better under- That burden of proof hasn't yet been Karen is a co-host of the Farm and standing of how important our voice carried and I doubt that it can be. Garden Show, a half-hour program is to both senators and represen- "I am very determined that, if televised once a week on WNEM tatives. I got the feeling that our nothing else, the people who have Saginaw. It is an interview-agricul~ viewpoints really do matter to them, strived and struggled and strained to tural subject show. Karen planned to and I think that they listen." make a go on the land be given a inform people in her area about the Karen and several others had the chance under a stable system to suc- Washington Legislative Seminar ac- opportunity to sit in on the first ceed. You deserve no less than tivities through the show. Senate vote for the veto override on that," he said. "I did an interview with MFB Presi- the controversial Highway Bill. She Sen. Levin praised MFB's leader- dent Jack Laurie, which will air on also attended an Agriculture Com- ship in the flood assistance efforts last the Farm and Garden Show and mittee meeting. fall. "It was Farm Bureau that pro- basically, give an overview df wh~t "It gives you appreciation of what vided the glue," he said. "The farm our members did in Washington. they have to go through to get any- community of Michigan pulled to- "Ev'ery chance I get, I will inform thing passed," Karen said. "It really gether and we were able to do in the people about what we did in Wash- 3ives you a better understanding of Senate what we thought was im- ington and what issues are of most what they mean when they say they possible." Levin said that Sen. Don importance right now and I'll try to have to go through a lot of red tape. Riegle deserved the "lion's share" of give them the type of feeling that we When you actually see it happening, the credit in the Congress and that got from the senators and represen- it really makes an impression." Farm Bureau deserved the "lion's tatives that we talked to," Karen Karen, who was accompanied by share" of the credit outside of Con- said. her husband Dave, wanted to thank gress for the successful effort. Karen is in the district represented FB for the opportunity to attend the Sen. Riegle told the group that if by Bill Schuette in the U.S. House of Washington Legislative Seminar. the U.S. had a tough trade strategy, Representatives. "I'd be real anxious to come back American agriculture would be the "I got a real good feeling from again because I feel that we do ac- number one beneficiary. "If we can visiting Schuette and that if I was to complish a lot when we come out get a fair shake in foreign markets call him now, I think our opinions here and it's really helped me to un- with our agricultural export products, would matter, would get some ac- derstand the political workings of we can sell billions and billions of tion, and that they would really Washington better," Karen said. "I dollars worth of output that today we help," Karen said. "Because I have a think it's a worthwhile seminar and better feeling, I'm going to be in- something that definitely should be (continued on page 20) clined to write more letters and have continued." D MA Y 1987. RURAL LIVING 9 MFB Takes the Lead with New Promotion and Education Plan By Marcia Ditchie who, along with other MFB staff could come to Michigan and visit members, is managing the develop- cherry orchards, dairy farms or T he eyes of the Farm Bureau ment of the new committee. vegetable operations and really see nation are cast upon Michigan the mechanics of the agricultural in- as MFB ends a long tradition dustry?" Chamberlain asked. "The of women's committees and begins state committee will decide what implementation of promotion and projects and activities wil\ receive education committees on the state priority. When you start a new com- and county levels. mittee, you can dream anything and The transition is a result of action then you have to decide what's pos- which began at the 1985 MFB an- sible and practical." nual meeting where delegates di- In addition to ag tourism, other rected the MFB board to appoint a program opportunities immediately group to study the Women's Com- available for the 'Promotion and mittee function and structure. Education Committee include pro- The study committee was com- moting Michigan produce using a posed of one woman from each of "seal of quality," ag in the classroom, the 11 FB districts and the 1986 mall displays, health issues in rural State Women's Committee chairper- areas, and ag understanding activities son. The committee conducted an such as rural-urban dinners. in-depth study over a four and one- Wi/da Craig takes Harry Dusseau's blood half month period to determine pressure at the Adrian Mall during Ag- whether the current women's pro- riculture Awareness Days in March. Dusseau, chairperson of the Lenawee gram was functioning in the best way County Commission, was on hand to pre- possible to serve members, the orga- sent FB President Marc Brown with an Ag nization and the agriculture industry. Day Proclamation. The past and present structures of the Women's Committee were re- "There are a lot of members who viewed, including participation, at- are very enthusiastic about what can titudes, the changing role of women be accomplished by this committee. in society and future trends. It can focus on many FB activities in At the 1986 MFB annual meeting the county and reach out to non- last December, voting delegates ap- farmers for a better understanding of proved the study committee's recom- agriculture," she said. mendations which called for the crea- "We have members who have ex- tion of a Promotion and Education cellent ideas for what they would like Committee. The goal of the new to see this committee do. It's just a committee is to be responsible for matter of getting people together and developing and carrying out projects deciding what they want. We want and programs for all of the members everyone to be a part of the Promo- and various age groups of MFB, in- tion and Education Committee be- cluding, but not limited to, health cause it's a Farm Bureau activity and and safety, leadership training, ag- the success of Farm Bureau is Farm tours for all ages will be among the riculture in the classroom, current through people and their participa- new committee actiuities. issues, commodity promotions and tion. " consumer education. Activities for a committee of this This new committee is not a name The concept of the new committee nature are unlimited, especially in the change for the MFB Women's Com- is winning acceptance in the counties area of ag tourism. mittee. It is an entirely new commit- as more information is disseminated, "Can you envision a time when tee with broader responsibilities and according to Julie Chamberlain, there would be farm tours all across greater opportunities for service and manager of the MFB Women's De- the state where people from urban involvement in the total FB organiza- partment and education coordinator, areas such as Chicago or Cleveland tion. The committee will be made up RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1987 10 of men and women who are inter- ested in working on programs and activities that relate to promotion and FB Volunteers: Doing What education. There may be activities carried on by the Women's Commit- Must Be Done tee that will fit into the promotion and education category. Those pro- By Connie Turbin Lansing area, admits that attracting a grams that do not fit should be corps of volunteers poses real chal- T evaluated and reassigned. here is more than a dash of lenges even for professional volun- "Each county will decide how they appeal in the whimsical claims teer managers. want their committee to function and made by Garrison Keillor, "We publicize volunteer opportuni- what they want it to do," said humorist and host of the popular ties by word of mouth, and by adver- Chamberlain. PBS radio show "The Prairie Home tising with television, radio and print County Farm Bureaus should now Companion," that powdermilk bis- media. Although it isn't practical in be in the process of looking at their cuits "give shy persons the strength every instance, individual contacts to bylaws and making the necessary to stand up and do what must be recruit volunteers are is effective," changes to create a Promotion and done." The product and the promise she says. Education Committee. The Women's are, of course, fictitious. Too bad. She cites good long-range plan- Committee will function as usual until If a batch of old-fashioned powder- ning as one of the most important Dec. 1, 1987 when it will cease to milk biscuits was the recipe for moti- aspects of successfully managing and exist. vating and involving more volun- maintaining volunteer programs. "County boards should look at the teers, community and organizational "Planning is important because then composition of the committee and leaders would abandon the board- everyone involved knows what is to how it will be created," Chamberlain room for the kitchen. be accomplished during the next year said, "which could include a five to According to June Mason-Ken- or six months. The group can also nine member committee with ad hoc field executive director of the start assigning duties and reporting groups to help accomplish projects Gre~ter Lansing Voluntary Action dates right from the beginning," she determined by the committee and Center, attracting and motivating says. the board. Counties should also be volunteers relies on a "scratch" Planning also gives volunteer orga- determining a nominee for the state recipe that can't be packaged. nizations a "competitive edge." committee to be submitted to MFB "A lot of what's best in volunteer That's important because competition President Jack Laurie by Aug. 1." leadership is based on developing from work, family, social activities, President Laurie will recommend good human relationships," Mason- and other community service activ- 22 nominees (two from each district) Kenfield says. She offers these hints ities is so keen. Advance planning for approval by the MFB Board at its for volunteer leaders: shows potential volunteers that the Aug. 26-27 meeting. The committee - Define what parts of the program project is well organized. It is easier will have an organizational meeting or project can be successfully dele- for the volunteer to see where he or in September. A chairperson will be gated to volunteers. Be willing to she can contribute. selected, who will be seated on the share those responsibilities. Mason-Kenfield, who has presented MFB Board after the December state -Give a clear description of the volunteerism workshops for Farm annual meeting. In future years, the volunteer activity. Bureau leadership conferences, offers chairperson should be elected at the - Explain your expectations for per- these general observations about vol- committee's annual reorganization formance, Le., goals, time required, unteer successes and challenges in meeting, which is recommended to progress reports, deadlines or com- the organization. "Farm Bureau is be held in conjunction with the MFB pletion dates. really an integral part of their volun- annual meeting. -Explain how the volunteer's con- teers' lifestyle and livelihood. By be- Other state FBs view the change tribution will be important to the suc- ing an active and involved part of it, with great interest. cess of the project. members can see that they are im- "At a meeting earlier this year at - Discuss with the volunteer his or proving conditions for their families, the AFBF offices in Park Ridge, an her reasons for becoming involved, their community and their industry. AFBF staff membeI\ said that Mich- and what areas of the project are As volunteers in the Farm Bureau, igan is considered a leader across the most interesting to him or her. they see results in their own lives. country and other state Farm Bu- - Be prepared to provide or obtain "In addition, the Farm Bureau reaus will be watching to see how training if appropriate. does a really fine job of offering con- this concept works," said Chamber- -Take time during the volunteer ferences and seminars to promote lain. "We have to rise to the occa- activity/involvement to get to know personal growth and skills develop- sion and be very forward thinking the volunteer, Le., be available to ment. It is apparent that the organi- and demonstrate to the rest of the answer questions, provide praise and zation appreciates the contributions nation that we have a good idea and recognition, be willing to listen to of volunteers through their efforts to that it's going to work for us. If they concerns. promote volunteer recognition, such choose to follow our footsteps, that's Mason-Kenfield, whose non-profit as encouraging local observance of great." 0 agency recruits volunteers for more National Volunteer Week, April than 200 organizations in the Greater 26-May 2." 0 MA Y 1987. RURAL LIVING 11 Country Almanac May 1-3 Blossomtime Festival, Benton May 9-10 National Mushroom Hunting Cham- Harbor/St. Joseph. pionship, Boyne City. May 3 Easter Flower Show, Belle Isle, May 13-16 Holland Tulip Time Festival, Detroit. Holland. May 3-9 Mushroom Festival, Mesick. May 14 Michigan Association of Farmer May 6 MACMA Spring Sale (fresh aspar- Cooperatives Legal Tax & Account- agus) order deadline. ing Seminar, Radisson Hotel, Lan- May 9 Michigan Beef Cook-Off, sing. Westwood Mall, Jackson. May 16-23 Michigan Week. May 9 Morel Mushroom Festival, May 17 Flower Day I, Eastern Market, Lewiston. Detroit. ~ComingUp~ June 11-13 National Asparagus Festival, July 10-11 Strawberry Festival, Chassell. Shelby/Hart. July 15-19 National Blueberry Festival, South June 14 Flower Day II, Eastern Market, Haven. Detroit. July 16-18 Dairy Festival, Elsie. June 15 SesquiTrain '87 leaves Capitol steps July 21-23 Ag Expo, MSU. for 14-day, 150 mile birthday party. Aug. 8-9 Mint Festival, St. Johns. June 19-21 Strawberry Festival, Belleville. Aug. 14-16 Blueberry Festival, Montrose. June 22-26 Young People's Citizenship Aug. 18-23 Upper Peninsula State Fair, Seminar, Olivet College, Olivet. Escanaba. June 26-28 National Pickle Festival, Linwood Aug. 20 MFB Statewide Policy Development Bicentennial Park, Linwood. Conference, Lansing. July 4 International Cherry Pit Spitting Aug. 26 MACMA Frozen Fruit Sale order Championship, Tree-Mendus Fruit deadline. Farm, Eau Claire. Aug. 28 Michigan State Fair, state July 5-11 Natiqnal Cherry Festival, Traverse Sept. 7 fairgrounds, Detroit. City. 12 RURAL LIVING, MA Y 1987 Asparagus Marketing Plan Makes Fresh Start By Connie Turbin and creative development begun last ment has the potential of moving fall. three-quarters of a million pounds of L ong before the first tender stalk of Michigan asparagus was snapped this spring, Michigan's asparagus industry was preparing for a new, aggressive marketing cam- That's when McCallum and Good- rich initiated a comprehensive market analysis of everything from current production and consumption patterns to the effect of hybrid development product in a new market, reported McCallum. On the promotion side, the agen- cy's role is to support that marketing opportunity with new, graphically paign that would thrust Michigan into on future market opportunities. attractive materials and consumer the national fresh market competi- The study revealed, for example, promotions. tion. that fresh market sales of asparagus "We developed a completely new The Michigan Asparagus Advisory have been skyrocketing. Sales of the graphic approach - one that can Board, the decision-making body for fresh product have jumped 48 % . hold its own with advertising by any the Michigan Asparagus Promotion That signalled a major change in major commodity group or co-op Committee, met in March to hear marketing strategy. Currently 80 % of such as Sunkist, Dole or Florida recommendations for a marketing Michigan's asparagus yield goes to oranges," said Goodrich. and promotion plan geared to boost- processed product; just 20% into The agency's first recommendation ing the market share for the Michigan fresh sales. was to update the product logo to crop. At that meeting, members of "It was clear that if we didn't make clearly identify Michigan asparagus. the board voted unanimously to ac- some inroads into the fresh market, New point of purchase and advertis- cept the recommendations of its new Michigan would be at a competitive ing materials include advertising slicks agency, Maxwell Advertising of Kala- disadvantage in the future," said in black and white and full-color, mazoo. Goodrich. color posters, nutrition/recipe bro- The presentation by agency repre- Pre-harvest efforts by McCallum chures, and in-store materials. sentative Bill Goodrich and Aspar- resulted in an agreement with a large Goodrich said the campaign will agus Committee promotions mana- eastern shipper to move fresh Mich- position the Michigan product to ger Chuck McCallum, was the cul- igan asparagus into markets all along compete successfully in about 20 mination of extensive market analysis the eastern seaboard. That agree- new major metropolitan markets. "Promotion materials play an impor- tant part in getting into those mar- kets. The materials help shippers get access to the retailer because they can show the food store chains that Michigan asparagus people will sup- port their product." In-store promotions are both effi- cient and effective, according to Goodrich. "Eighty percent of the purchase decisions - the final brand decision and the final product deci- sion - are actually made in the store. Our program builds on that by getting these materials placed where the decision will be made." The agency has developed a mar- keting promotion that will be in- troduced in 14 newspapers in Mich- igan, Chicago and Pennsylvania. "We're placing an attractive, four- color Michigan asparagus insert (continued on page 20) MA Y 1987, RURAL LIVING 13 Rural Exchange Farmland Protection FARMETTE By Andrea Hofmeister Zoning Guide Available Tuscola County The American Farmland Trust • has released a 64-page publica- tion for local planners entitled, "Plan- ning and Zoning for Farmland Pro- tection: A Community Based Ap- '1 proach." The guidebook is intended I y y to identify purposes for protecting farmlands, assist local governments V V in identifying high quality agricultural Y lands, and assist in developing and Rural Rascals Joe and Stephen Ko- implementing defensible and equi- \.. "Vv ) vacic inspect the train-shaped cake Joe, table farmland protection programs. age 8, entered in a Boy Scout cake com- Alternative agricultural zoning tech- v petition. Joe earned first place in the "Best Use of Theme" category for "Michigan Products Right on Track." They are the niques are described and sample zoning ordinances are. provided. t sons of Mike and Marge Kovacic, Clinton The guidebook is the result of a County. one year cooperative effort by the American Farmland Trust, Michigan "Sure, the corn rows you planted CAG Members Offered Farm Bureau, Michigan State Univer- are a little crooked. Don't worry. sity, Michigan Society of Planning The cultivator will straighten them AgriVisor Discount Officials, Michigan Tow{1ships. As- out!" Community Action Group sociation and several professional • members in the AgriVisor radio planners. FM-broadcast area (southern two- Copies are available for $5.00 Conklin Named MFB's thirds of the lower peninsula) are be- from the American Farmland Trust, ing offered one free month of the Midwest Regional Office, 1405 S. AgriPac Chairperson AgriVisor Marketing Service with a Harrison Road, #318, East Lansing, new one year subscription. The cost MI48823. 0 to new subscribers through the "Community Action Group Advan- tage" offer is just $429, instead of Michigan Cooks Prepare $468. New CAG subscribers also re- ceive the monthly marketing news- for Beef Cook-Off letter and free registration at the AgriVisor marketing seminars. The What's the secret to creating a CAG Advantage will be available • prize winning recipe? A simple, through June 1, 1987. For more in- great tasting entry! Amateur chefs formation about AgriVisor's CAG and just plain good cooks from Advantage, Call MFB AgriCom/ Ag- around the state who have entered riVisor, 517-323-7000, ext. 547. 0 the Michigan Beef Cook-Off will be hoping they have that special ingre- Ag Contributions to dient. Nine finalists will compete for the Michigan Highlighted opportunity to represent Michigan in David Conklin the National Beef Cook-Off at Sun A slide/tape presentation has Valley, Idaho. The Michigan winner Dave Conklin is the new chair- • been produced for county FB will receive $200, plus an expense • person of MFB's Political Action leaders to use during Michigan's Ses- paid trip for two to the host city. Committee. Conklin, a Shiawassee quicentennial year at Rotary, Lions, The Michigan Beef Cook-Off will County dairy farmer, also serves as church and other civic organization be held May 9 at the Westwood Mall Third Member of the MFB Executive meetings. The slide/tape highlights in Jackson. The Michigan Cattle Committee. Other AgriPac Commit- the contributions agriculture has Women, who sponsor the contest in tee members for 1987 include Faye made to the growth of the state . To cooperation with the Michigan Beef Adam, Calvin Ellens, Sally Knopf, reserve the production, contact the Industry Commission, invite the pub- Bob Gregory, L.C. Scramlin, Joanne MFB Information Division in Lansing. lic to attend. 0 Stefl, Tom Guthrie and Bob Thomp- Call 517-323- 7000, extension 516. 0 son. 0 14 RURAL LIVING. MAY 1987 Blossom Queens Visit Diverse Farms W hen southwest Michigan decorates for the Blos- somtime Festival, Mother Nature hasn't always cooperated by providing warm, sunny days and a ery. The farm has been owned by the Lemon family since 1855. Cur- rent owners are Robert Lemon II and his brothers, Jeff and Tim. They raise 150 acres of raspberries, sweet matic systems for feeding, climate control, waste disposal and more. After an "All Michigan" luncheon, the queens toured Hilltop Nurseries in Van Buren County. The farm in- profusion of delicate, fragrant blos-. cherries, peaches, nectarines, plums, cludes packing house and storage, soms. pears, apples, table grapes and wine fruit tree nursery, research and "We've celebrated festival time grapes. The winery was established development areas, and computerized despite the unpredictability of Mich- in 1984. Using only their own wine apple grading and catalogue mail igan spring weather. Don't rain on grapes, the Lemon Creek Winery order for the nursery. Three genera- my parade is more than a cliche for has won fourteen awards including tions are involved in the farm. us," says Leslie Leitz, Berrien three gold medals. Touring the farms was fun, but County Farm Bureau information After a toast to the Blossomtime sampling the Michigan products in chairperson. She has served as pub- season with sparkling, non-alcoholic the Taste of Michigan baskets pre- licity chairperson for the annual Blos- fruit juice, each queen received a pared for each queen was delicious. som Queens Farm Tour since 1984. commemorative "special label" bottle Products for the baskets and funding Foul weather or fair, the farm tour of the sparkling fruit juice. for the tour were donated by area has been a part of the week-long fes- In rural Marcellus, the queens farmers and ag-businesses. tival events for four years. The tour toured the MacKenzie Farms. Inno- "Support for the project has been is the joint annual project of the Ber- vation is evident on this third gener- tremendous. It's a real cooperative rien, Cass and Van Buren county ation, Cass County farm where they activity because without help from Farm Bureaus. The 1987 tour was raise grains, cattle and hogs. The the farm community, our individual held April 18. queens toured the facilities which in- organizations could not make it "We were looking for a way to clude half-round shelters, and auto- possible." Leslie says. 0 focus attention on the broad agricul- tural base of the area. As farmers in Southwest Michigan, we wanted to share our pride in the diversity of our ~ agricultural enterprises," says Leslie. "That's how the idea of the farm tour developed. " Blossomtime Queens representing communities in the area were chosen to be the special guests for the tour. The young women are predomi- The jewel in the crown nantly "city gals," who are unfamiliar of the Blossom Queens' Farm Tour. That is how with agriculture. some haue described "We just have a lot of fun. We're the annualliuestock showing off some of the area's finest uisit. This year, the farms and the girls seem to appre- queens toured the Don ciate a festival da'y that allows them McKenzie farm in Mar- cellus. Theresa Hudzin- to trade their crowns and gowns for ski, Miss Sodus (left), Farm Bureau caps and jeans," Leslie and DeAnna Herbert, says. Miss Paw Paw (right), This year the Blossom Queens cuddle some baby pigs born the day before the gathered at the Berrien County Farm farm uisit. April 18. Bureau Office for a continental breakfast and a presentation by Chris Dahlke of Dal-Key's Honey Farm in Sodus. Chris described beekeeping, honey production and processing and explained the importance of bees to the fruit and vegetable in- dustry. The first farm stop on the tour was Lemon Creek Fruit Farm and Win- MA Y 1987, RURAL LIVING 15 Safemark Rolls in Spring Sales Record W ear testing safemark auto- mobile'tires isn't in Bob Harms' job description as Safemark general manager, but if the more than 20,000 road miles he's 1986. By April, the program had added 11 Safe mark outlets with an overall goal of 14 new dealers by July 1987. But it's dollar signs that give the developed a committee gUidebook that offers a suggested year long agenda for dealer support, advertis- ing, member promotion and working with the county FB board of direc- logged since December are any indi- best indication of the program's tors. The gUidebook was introduced cation, the product performs up to its comeback. Safemark sales through at a series of regional meetings. quality claims. the dealer network for March 1987 Innovative promotions such as the More importantly, the miles are climbed to $50,000 for the first time President's Discount Sale in counties paying off in a test of the program's since April 1984. An additional without Safemark outlets are creating ability to attract and serve Farm Bu- $14,000 in March sales was carried interest in the program among the reau members through its statewide over for delivery in April. county's leadership. "Based on the dealer network. "We've had good Harms attributes a large part of the high degree 'of customer satisfaction success in attracting new dealers renewal in sales to increased contacts and low product adjustment rates since October of last year," said with dealers and efforts to strengthen (just 3% for tires and 4% on bat- Harms, who took over'duties as the links between th~ county FB and teries), I feel very confident that this Safemark general manager Dec. 1, the local Safemark dealer. He has type of promotion will create positive awareness of the product among this key group of county leaders," said GO RADIAL Harms. Building product awareness and NOW · · · emphasizing member service is the cornerstone of the effort. Despite a IN REAR TRACTOR TIRES small staff and a heavy schedut'e of dealer visits, Harms has set up Safe- 21% mark product displays at nearly every major FB event. He also encourages UP TO MORE TRACT/O county committees and dealers to use displays at county meetings and ~ in the dealer's showroom. Sales are growing and so is Harms' satisfaction with the program's ability 10% Tillage Time Savings. BeLdUSC you Cion I wdslC' II1JlC wilt) ~lippd(Je to contribute to the scope of FB Belts of Aramid member benefits. "Safemark's mem- Pound lor pound "lronCjcr thell) 51('0.1\\Iitl rl CJtl ber only program offers the kind of res stdncc to pUI1C ture products and service that will help at- Nylon Cord Body Piles For SlrerK)ltl lie, t)illiv d'l(1 'orlC! ,teUWd!J!/llv tract and maintain memberships. I Smooth, Easy Ride know it's working because dealers Ell c enl Irac 1,)11 less soil N1lh COfT Jld( 11011 are calling me to replenish their sup- ply of membership applications. That's the kind of member awareness and dealer involvement we've been working for since the program began." 0 THE SAFEMARK MARGIN: QUAlITY • SERVICE • DEPENDABILITY • ECONOMY 'Compared 10our bias lire In ground testing III San AngelO Texas TOP VALUE BUY FOR FARM BUREAU MEMBERS 16 RURAL LIVING, MAY 1987 Agrinomic Update Navy Bean Market and Bean Contract Situation Commentary by dealer price dropping from the high coincided with our MFB AgriCom Robert G. Craig, Manager $60s in December, down to $46-$48 forecast back in mid-January. Commodity Activities & Research by the end of March. Most beans A look at the report information Michigan Farm Bureau have been brought in. for Minnesota and North Dakota, Second, the USDA Crop Report two states which compete directly In a normal year, Michigan is was a key one. Most traders wanted with Michigan navy beans, shows a • the nation's top producer of dry to wait on the sidelines and not be in significant increase (16 %) in planting edible beans. In fact, Michigan navy a risky position. The March 31 report intentions. If that type of an increase beans usually represent one-half of was for all dry bean varieties and, as goes into navies for all of North the navy bean production in North expected, it was a bearish report. For America, then we will become even America. the United States, USDA indicated more bearish than the 10% figure As we all know, 1986 was not a that farmer planting intentions for assumes. normal year. Commercial Weather 1987 were 1,838,800 acres com- Service meteorologist John McMur- pared to 1,673,800 acres planted in (continued on page 20) ray recently told me that, statistically, 1986. This is a 9.9% increase and the same storm system and floods should not occur in the same place FIGURE 1 again for 350 years! Let's hope not! NORTH AMERICAN NA VY BEAN PRODUCTION Current Navy Bean Market Situation 1984 1985a 1986b 1986c 11987 Even with the specter of a weather Beginning Stocks 650 500 400 400 0 disaster statistically confined to a fu- Production 5966 7065 8641 4415 '1 ture century, some serious challenges (Total) (6616) (7565) (9041) (4815) '1 have blown in to cloud the 1987 Disappearance, ewr, 1000 market. Domestic 3916 4300 4282 3033 '1 Figure 1 shows a supply-demand Exports 2200 2865 2500 1512 '1 (Total) (6116) (7165) (6787) (4815) '1 balance sheet from 1984 to the pres- ent. Michigan's weather disaster last Ending Stocks 500 400 2254 0 fall caused almost a 65 % shortfall in Ending Stocks as %Disappearance 8.2% 5.6% 33.2% 0.0% navy bean harvest. a Export, domestic use, and ending stocks are estimated Navy bean prices bottomed out b Production est. based on USDA September Report last fall at $13 per cwt. If the crop c USDA December Reports had been harvested, I think the price was probably headed down to near MICHIGAN NAVY BEAN PRICES 1977.1987 $10. Instead, the grower price has FIGURE 2 jumped all the way to $40-$42 for DEALER AND GROWER (CURREl";T DOLLARS) 72 generic quality beans and that has 66 been the market top. For No.1 nav- ies, the grower price has traded over 60 $60 in Minnesota and North Dakota 54 (MIN/DAK). 41 A few days prior to the March 31 42 "Planting Intentions" report by USDA, the old crop navy grower ~ price was taken off the board at most 30 elevators across the state. Two con- 24 ditions appear to be responsible for \I the "no bid" situation. 12 First of all, the high cost to canners reduced demand for pea beans in a variety of consumer products. This o reduced demand was reflected by the 1977 1971 1979 1910 1911 1982 1913 1984 1985 1916 1987 DEALER GROWER MA Y 1987, RURAL LIVING 17 •• WHEN YOU REACH 65 ....... A lot of you have been in Farm Bureau from the start. Group Medicare Plus: HMO convenience in the newest of health care plans With good reason. Farm for seniors. No deductibles Bureau has always been to worry about, and for as looking out for your best little as $21 per month. interest. And we're not Check with your county going to stop-especially secretary regarding the now that you're looking for availability of a Farm ways to fill the many gaps Bureau Medicare Plus somebody left in Medicare group plan for your area. coverage. Looking for the best deal for you-that's our job. 1iI~,/;" For More Information: Contact the Farm Bureau secretary in your county to And we've got three STAY WITH THE find out more about how health insurance programs for you, depending on ONE YOU'VE Farm Bureau is working hard to keep insuring where you live and your TRUSTED FOR Michigan's farming insurance needs. Take.a community-just like good look at the way Farm OVER 40 YEARS. we always have. Or fill out Bureau keeps you covered- the coupon below and taking over wherever Medicare leaves off. mail it to: Michigan Farm Bureau, Member Complementary Econo Plan: For hospitaliza' Services Dept., ~O. Box 30960, tions, you pay only the Medicare deductibles. Lansing, MI 48909. The plan pays the coinsurance requirements -----------------------------------, for covered services at only $17.80 per month. PLEASE SEND ME INFORMATION I NAME I Complementary Comprehensive Plan: The I ADDRESS I plan pays both the Medicare deductible I I and 100% of hospital charges, and provides CITY STATE I I Master Medical 65 benefits to cover your ZIP 00000 PHONE { ) I prescription drugs and minimize your out,of, Number eligible 4fnl::~ FaRm..1! pocket expenses. ~~~~~~c~~_-==-_~_~_~__=__~ __~~!!~~J For the location of your nearest County Farm Bureau Office call 1 (800) 292-2639, ask for ext. 537 or 538 Legislative Review (continued from page 4) --~ .------ .~~-1:RJ8IE OOPnClN was suggested several years ago and Holland-Germany- may have merit if details can be worked out. Austria - Liechtenstein- Switzerland-France- Emergency Farm Disaster VIENNA . Belgium • Loan - S.B. 81 has gone through several drafts and currently is being considered in the House in the form of S. B. 81 (H2). The bill July ll-July 25, 1987 provides for technical amendments to the original law, and increases the funding to $210 million, adding $10 i:] FaRm Bureau Call toll-free: 1-800-331-1729 In Grand Rapids, call Continental million for grain dealers. It is an- 452-9556 ticipated that additional amendments will be offered and the $10 million will be available for ag related businesses. The FARM BUREAU CONTI- SIGHTSEEING Oversized Farm Equipment - NENTAL TOUR, scheduled to HIGHLIGHTS • H.B. 4054 (Rep. Randall) had depart July 11 and return July one hearing in the House Transpor- -SALZBURG - Visit 25, is a totally escorted Euro- tation Committee. The concept is in Mozart's birthplace, pean travel vacation designed line with FB policy to allow road Franciscan's Church movement of oversized farm equip- for Michigan Farm Bureau mem- and St. Peter's ment. Currently the law restricts on- bers only. Convenient depar- Cemetery. road farm equipment width to 15'6" tures are planned from Lansing - VIENNA - Visit during daylight and 9' after dark. and Grand Rapids. Schoenbrunn Palace. The bilI received some opposition, -PARIS - Visit Notre but will be considered when the dif- The FARM BUREAU TRA VEL ferences are worked out. A meeting Dame Cathedral. SERVICE has limited the size of -AMSTERDAM - Ori- has been held with State Police to ar- this tour, so you'll share the rive at some agreement. entation sightseeing memories of your summer in includes a canal Pesticide Control Act - Efforts Europe with a small group of cruise by glass- • are underway by Rep. Stab- fellow travelers. topped motorlaunch. enow to rewrite the Pesticide Control -PLUS - scenic Act. The current draft is more restric- Call one of our experienced Rhine cruise Bop- tive and also more encompassing travel consultants, Mary Beth or pard/St. Goar, visit to than the existing law. Additional Joyce, using the Farm Bureau King Ludwig's castle m~etings are anticipated and there Travel Service toll-free line, or at Linderhof and pan- has been input from a wide range of clip the request form below to interest groups. A meeting was held oramic views of with staff from the governor's office receive the FARM BUREAU Heidelberg. to discuss the revised version. CONTINENTAL tour brochure. Stabenow is expected to introduce the revised version shortly after the ------------------------------- Easter recess. FB has suggested sev- Please rush me the full-color information brochure describing the FARM eral clarifying amendments. BUREAU CONTINENTALtour to Holland, Germany, Austria, Liechensteln, Switzerland, France and Belgium . Right-To-Know - H.B. 4229 • would extend the state prohibi- Name tion against county "right-to-know" Address ordinances which expired April 1, to December 31, 1988. FB supports the City/ Town extension. 0 State Zip Code MFB Membership # Lansing legislative topics are Mail to: Farm Bureau Travel Service, 2421 Eastern Avenue, reviewed by Robert E. Smith, MFB Grand Rapids, Michigan 49507. senior legislative counsel. ------------------------------- MA Y 1987, RURAL LIVING 19 Agrinomic Update counties). This will likely involve only 5,000-10,000 acres of beans, but it Washington (continued from page 17) is outside the traditional bean grow- (continued from page 9) ing area. This new venture by Camp- Market Outlook for 1987 bell's with pea beans is similar to can't sell," he said. "We're not going What's our outlook for new crop what their Napolean, Ohio, plant to get that opportunity if we don't get navy beans? A 10% acreage increase management has done with other fair trade ground rules. We need a is probable throughou~ North Amer- vegetable crops. tough trade strategy." ica to a total of approximately Hundreds of growers have negoti- Riegle said he supports some form 775,000 acres. ated with their elevators to roll over of federal assistance to the Farm With a normal yield of 13 bags per last year's unfilled bean contracts and Credit System. acre, the result is a potential record fill them from 1987 production. "The Farm Credit System has ab- production of 10 million cwt. Obvi- Thus, many growers have some of sorbed some real body blows the last ously, we won't know officially until their navy beans already "marketed." few years and it hasn't fully recov- the August 11 USDA "Planted Acres Most do not and that is a concern to ered. It holds the largest share of by Variety" report and the fall har- Michigan's dry bean industry as we agricultural debt and has been most vest, but all of us in the bean indus- enter spring planting season. severely affected by the depression in try (growers, elevators, dealers, and Out in Minnesota and North Da- agriculture in states such as Nebraska canners) need to examine that kota, $14-$15 contracts have been and Iowa. We're fortunate that Mich- bumper crop prospect. offered to growers since late Feb- igan's farm credit banks have re- Basic economics says that high ruary. Obviously, the natural disaster mained relatively healthy due to our prices (and profit potential) during of last fall continues to make prob- diversified agricultural base, but I this past winter will lead to increased lems for Michigan growers and the don't think that means we're immune production this growing season. We entire dry bean industry. to the problems we see continuing have a real challenge to regain lost Joint MFB/MBC Task Force across the agricultural base in our markets and market share. country as a whole. I do support In Figure 2 we see that the last In a cooperative effort to study some form of federal assistance to time the grower price hit $40 in current problems in the Michigan dry the Farm Credit System. I don't see Michigan was in May 1981, but 1982 bean industry, and provide leader- where we have much choice," he may be a more appropriate price ship for mapping out a new strategy said. chart pattern. for. the industry's future, Michigan Riegle said he has "serious reser- In February 1982, the price was Farm Bureau and the Michigan Bean vations" about the Harkin/Gephardt $28.75 per cwt. and with about a 9 Commission formed a joint task farm bill proposal. "I don't feel com- million bag crop, the price declined force. 0 fortable with the idea of mandatory to $9.50 in December 1982. production controls on farmers, nor Marketing history lessons should be learned and appropriate market- Fresh Start do I really agree with the notion of taking upwards of 50 % of our farm- ing tools used, including both cash (continued from page 13) land out of production. The bill sales and forward contracts. In fact, if among brand name products in Sun- would also affect exports in a way $15 or better new crop contracts are day supplements, offering a free that might not be positive for our available, growers ought to seriously recipe book in exchange for any farmers," he said. consider them! three purchase tags bearing the President Jack Laurie, in his pre- New Crop Navy Bean Michigan asparagus logo," he said. sentation of grabber mugs filled with Contract Situation Budget for the marketing cam- Michigan commodities to the sena- paign is modest compared to promo- tors, took advantage of the oppor- As of mid-April canners had not tion dollars spent on "brand" prod- tunity to push policy. offered contracts to Michigan dealers. ucts and by other national commod- "These mugs are to be used to With only a few exceptions, elevators ity groups, but Goodrich believes that drink apple juice produced only from do not have new crop navy contracts research and planning will prove to domestically grown apples," he said. available to Michigan growers in the be the competitive edge for the Mich- "Reconstituted foreign apple juice will traditional bean areas. There have igan asparagus industry. leak through the bottom of the mugs been some limited, trial offers to a "I don't believe that such an in and mess up your clothes. The only few selected growers by Berger and depth (asparagus) marketing analysis way you can tell whether or not it's Company in the Thumb area at $14 has been done for Michigan or any- domestically produced apple juice or or $15 per bag, with and without where else in the past. California and foreign concentrate is that we finalize "Act of God" clauses and acreage Washington have been active, but it's the requirement that foreign concen- contracts. Also, for a few days in not really clear whether they have trate be labeled as to the specific January, B & W Co-op in Brecken- been basing their promotions on country of origin." ridge offered $17 per bag contracts. market analysis. To which Sen. Levin replied, "It's The last exception is a new effort by "The real test of our plan's effec- nice to be mugged by the Farm Bu- Campbell's Soup Company offering tiveness will be in increased sales and reau!" 0 $19 per bag acreage contracts di- rectly to growers in southeastern market penetration for Michigan as- Michigan (Monroe and Lenawee paragus," he said. 0 20 RURAL LIVING. MAY 1987 Grassroots Perspectlve .. ''You Said It" Tomwassee Group to Celebrate Here's how Community Action Group members responded after 20 Year Anniversary discussion of the February topic, "The Elton R. Smith Chair": Jean Compton, secretary of the Tomwassee Community Action -Community ActioD Group mem- • Group in Saginaw County, reports that the group began meeting in bers responded affirmatively (90 %) the summer of 1967. She and her husband Clifton hosted an organizing when asked if FB would benefit from meeting at their home in Freeland. Farmers from Tittabawassee and this chair. Thomas Townships were invited. CAG members cited benefits from Members who joined at that first meeting were Dick (deceased) and this chair as assistance in future Marion Hughes, Paul and Bonnie Vasold, Tom and Kay Aspin, Jerry and problem-solving pertaining to Mich- Jan Fowler, Don Turner, Shirley (deceased) and Ivan Sparks, and Clifton igan agriculture (,\nd formulating and Jean Compton. Members combined the two township names to form policy/to meet the changing needs of "Tom-wassee." The first officers were Clifton Compton, Tom Aspin, and today's agriculture. Jan Fowler. . - When asked how agriculture Over the years, Jean says, many members of the Tomwassee group might benefit from the Elton R. have served as officials in their respective townships, "so we get first hand Smith Chair, CAG members said: information on ideas and problems." finding more uses for the com- The group has also fostered three county FB presidents: Clifton Comp- modities we grow; there would be ton, Ivan Sparks, and Paul Vasold. Members are actively involved in many someone with expertise to work on county FB committees. agricultural problems, public relations Current group members are Clifton and Jean Compton, Bob and Mari- and to coordinate procedures; spe- lyn DuCharme, Dorothy Erskine, Marion Hughes, Dick and Fran Hunter, cialization in agricultural needs; new Dean and Joyce Murphy, Ivan and Marilyn Sparks, Duane and Clarice developments for agricultural prod- Vasold, Paul and Bonnie Vasold. ucts and managing supplies to other In addition to monthly meetings, the members annually plan a summer countries; better food distribution on family outing and a Christmas dinner party. 0 local, national and international levels; opportunity to influence yo\{th through the Chair's teaching; and im- Discussion Topic prove the image of agriculture to the general public. -CAG members suggested that A Showcase for Agriculture some of the research areas could in- c1ude: how to eliminate our surplus, Michigan's Sesquicentennial Michigan's diverse agricultural in- get better prices on farm products • provides farmers with an dustry. and keep our manufacturing here at unique opportunity to "showcase" A favorite of the crowds that lined home; marketing imports/exports; tneir industry and gain broad public the route for "150 Years of Michigan food quality; and how to apply new appreciation for its contributions to on Parade" was a float sponsored by agricultural technology. the state and to the lives of its the Michigan Department of Agricul- citizens. ture. It was a huge reproduction of a When the 18-month-long birthday market basket overflowing with life- celebration was kicked off last June like models of Michigan fruits, vege- In June at the state capital, agriculture was tables, grains, milk, wine and many very much in evidence. Thousands other commodities produced by the of people enjoyed a taste of "A state's farmers. It was drawn by a six- Farm Credit Update Michigan Family Sampler" as com- horse performance hitch, owned by modity groups peddled their wares Robert Vickrey of Memphis in 5t. Farm credit is crucial to the eco- during this once-in-a-Iifetime event. Clair County, that some viewers said nomic health of agriculture. This A display of farm machinery dating rivalled the famous Budweiser topic will cover some of the con- back to the 1800s, a steam engine Clydesdales. troversies surrounding the Farm log sawing demonstration, pens of All in all, it was a proud day for Credit System and the recom- farm animals that city children could members of Michigan's agricultural mendations of the AFBF Farm actually touch, old-time country industry. Credit Study Committee. music, transportation in the form of For the 1987 festival season, a horse-drawn carriages, and a floral tentative schedule of 18 agriculture- Sesquicentennial logo in front of the oriented and six Sesquicentennial capitol building, called attention to (continued on next page) MA Y 1987. RURAL LIVING 21 industry during this Sesquicentennial Discussion Topic year. For example, at last year's fair, (continued from previous page) the Arenac County FB featured a photo portrayal of "The Way It Was parades has been set for the float's Down on the Farm" using a collec- appearance. MDA is currently in the tion of photos from local families process of inviting organizations and dating back to 1910. individuals to support the agricultural In a book called "Michigan Agri- float through contributions. culture 1800-1980," published by the Michigan Grain & Agri-Dealers Asso- Michigan SesquiTrain '87 ciation, it is recorded that in August Michigan's horse industry is an im- of 1939, a Michigan Farm Bureau portant part of the state's agriculture picnic sponsored by Saginaw, Bay and it will be highlighted during the and Tuscola counties attracted 3,000 MDA-sponsored SesquiTrain '87. people. The program included a Wagoneers will assemble in Lansing drawing for a free tractor, open to on June 14 and leave the capitol the FB members in good standing only. following morning. The wagon train's There were children's games, a pony encampment stops include Charlotte, race, community singing, tug-of-war, Olivet, Marshall, Albion, Jackson, horse pulling and tractor pulling con- Munith, Pinckney, Brighton, Fowler- tests. A similar activity, sponsored by ville, and Williamston, with a return the Community Action Groups in to Lansing on June 27. Every even- neighboring counties, might renew ing will be filled with historic obser- some of the neighborhood spirit that vances, displays, and local enter- once was so prevalent in farm com- WEEKLY CRUISE DEPARTURES tainment. munities. County Farm Bureaus along the Other activities that Community Now Available Through Your SesquiTrain route will be furnishing Action Groups might spearhead in- Farm Bureau Travel Service hay to feed the horses, but there are clude: ways for Community Action Groups -Write the history of your Com- throughout the state to be involved munity Action Group. Save up to 250/0 on Five Star Cruise in the activity. Birthday greetings, -Offer to help publish a special Line packages. Even greater each with room for signatures, are Sesquicentennial edition of your savings available for advance cruise available free of charge from Mich- county newsletter and include rem- travel plans through April 1988. igan Farm Bureau's Information & iniscences from your older members. Public Relations Division, P.O. Box -Sponsor a quilt contest. 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. These -Organize a tour of centennial CARIBBEAN CRUISE - 7 Days 150th birthday greeting messages, farms in your community .. Regular FB Travel signed by members of your group, -Sponsor a "Farmers Day" at your $1421 $956 will be delivered by wagon train to county fairgrounds, with produce the governor and later placed in the and craft booths, and a farm animal MEXICAN RIVIERA - 7 Days archives to become a part of Mich- display for youngsters. Regular FB Travel igan's history. The scope of activities to highlight $1603 $1032 The Michigan Sesquicentennial agriculture and your proud heritage Commission's agriculture subcommit- is unlimited. Sharing your pride can tee, headed by Montcalm County FB be fun for you as well as educational TRANSCANAL CRUISE -10 Days leader Charles Mulholland, is plan- for those who may not know the Regular FB Travel ning to publish a booklet highlighting leading role that agriculture played $2590 $1961 150 people from agriculture and during Michigan's first 150 years. agribusiness who have made signifi- cant contributions to the industry. Discussion Questions I Activities Cruise package also includes round Farm organizations, county Cooper- - List other projects/activities that trip airfare and transfers. ative Extension Service offices, and Community Action Groups might county Sesquicentennial coordinators be involved in to celebrate Mich- Subject to availability. All are being asked to nominate people igan's Sesquicentennial. categories not available on all who deserve to be part of this special -What Sesquicentennial activities dates. publication. have been planned in your com- munity? Do these activities include Ideas for Local Activities agriculture? For more information, call County fairs and commodity -What value do you see in Farm 1-800-331-1729; in Grand Rapids, festivals provide excellent oppor- Bureau being involved in Ses- Call 452-9556. quicentennial activities? 0 tunities for farmers to spotlight their 22 RURAL LIVING. MA Y 1987 Farm Bureau Market Place CLASSIFIED AD POLICY HAY LISTING FARM EQUIPMENT MISCELLANEOUS HILLSDALE HAY, INC.: Brian Hasty. Sales HOG PRODUCERS - YOU CAN USE STARR NEED COLLEGE MONEY? Billions available •Farm Bureau members pay Manager, 106 S. County Line Road, Tekon- PLASTIC RUSH TRAYS for nursery pens and now! Scholarships, grants, loans. Guarantee 25 cents per word for all sha. Mich. 49092; home phone 517-765-2099 farrowing stalls to eliminate daily manure handl- you qualify for five financial sources Most ap- classified advertisements. Litchfield sales p h o n e 5 1 7 - 5 4 2 - 3 4 3 8 ing. Improve bacteria control. They can be used plying receive over 20! Send $3.00 for bro- (Wednesdays only) All hay NIR tested. in any type of building on any type of floor chure, instructions, short questionnaire (RE- (12-tfn) Starr Farrowing Stalls with adjustable swing-up FUNDABLE) . Nationwide Scholarship Finders, • All other advertisers pay sides Choice of waterers and sides. Starr Box 2257, Lynchburg. Va. 24501-0227 50 cents per word for one inser- HOWELL LIVESTOCK AUCTION: Bill or Larry Nursery Pens, singles, side-by-side and stacked *(5-3t-37p-ts) tion and 45 cents per word for Sheridan, P.O. Box 157, Howell, Mich Keep your pigs warm and dry. Free literature 48843; office phone 517-548-3300 (12-tfn) and prices Starr National. 219 Main Street, INCREDIBLE INFORMATION — Jeeps' two or more consecutive inser- Colchester, 111. 62326, toll free 1-800-233- Cars*4x4's seized in drug raids for under tions of the same ad. 5502 - in Illinois 1-800-854-6480 (5-84p-ts) $100.00? Call for facts today! Phone 615- 269-6701, extension 566. (5-2t-19p-ts) • All advertisements are subject to LIVESTOCK a 15-word minimum charge, in- TWO GUARANTEED QUALITY PRINTED WILL LEGAL FORMS. $2 50 Four $4 00. NSF cluding member ads. MILKING SHORTHORNS: Young bulls, year- Services. Box 2257, Lynchburg, Va 24501- lings and calves for sale. Write or visit Stanley REAL ESTATE 0257. (5-3t-17p-ts) •Please indicate if you are a Farm M. Powell and Family. Ingleside Farm. Rt. 2. 3248 Powell Hwy.. Ionia. Mich. 48846. Bureau member. (5-27b) CONDO AT NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FLA., ATTORNEY: Farm born and raised Engaged FOR SALE OR RENT. Completely furnished, in General Practice at Law Experienced in •The deadline for ads is the first two bedrooms, two baths, ocean view from the most areas of law and can bring needed exper- FREE: COLORFUL POULTRY CATALOG. Of fourth floor. Tastefully decorated. Phone tise to most problems Particular emphasis on Monday of the month preceding fering top quality chicks (Bantams-Exotics- estates and planning, financial problems, torts, Standards) at rock-bottom prices. Clinton Hat- 517-669-8252. (5-21p) publication. chery. Box 548-MRL. Clinton, Mo. 64735 land and bankruptcy. Particular knowledge of WHATLEY REALTY INC.: Farms Homes agriculture Available statewide. Call or write Phone 816-885-8500 (3-3t-24p-ts) •All ads must be pre-paid and Commercial 4571 West US 223. Adrian, Ml Thomas J Budzynski. 25550 North River 49221. Phone 517-263-7855 or 517-423- Road, Mt. Clemens. MI Phone 313-463-5253 may be pre-paid up to one year REGISTERED ANGUS BREEDING STOCK: (4-7t-57p) For sale at all times. Bordner Angus Farms, 7411. Auctioneer, Realtor, Vaughn Jo Lewis. in advance. 68730 County Farm Road. Sturgis, MI 49091. 3310 Paragon Road. Tipton. MI 49287. Phone Phone 616-651-8353. (4-12t-20p) 517-431-2571. (4-6t-27p) •No ads will be taken over the phone. FOR HEALTH REASONS, SELLING 176 AN- NURSERY STOCK GORA GOAT HERD. Make an offer Phone 616-625-2570. (5-15p) MISCELLANEOUS MAIL YOUR AD BERRY PLANTS — Raspberries, strawberries, WITH PAYMENT TO: THREE PHASE POWER FROM YOUR SINGLE blueberries, currants, gooseberries, others. Free PHASE ELECTRICAL SERVICE. Roto-Phase catalog Makielski Berry Nursery. 7130 Piatt Rural Living FARM EQUIPMENT Generators have been American-made and Road, Dept. RL. Ypsilanti. Mich. 48197. Phone 313-434-3673. (ll-12t-22p) P.O. Box 30960 backed for 24 years. From fractional motors up to 100 hp. Economical power for dryers, ele- Lansing, Mich. 48909 HOG EQUIPMENT — Del Air heat ex vators, irrigation equipment, automated feed- STRAWBERRY PLANTS — ASPARAGUS changers. Osborne feeders, K G . Johnson far- ers, dairy equipment, machine tools, etc. CROWNS. Certified plants grown on fumigated rowing crates, Chore-Time feeding. Mix-Mill Remote control and oilfield equipment also sand. Free brochure. Krohne Plant Farms. Rt. s y s t e m s . Hamilton Distributing Co., available. Discounts to FB members Phone 6. Box 586. Dowagiac. Mich. 49047. 616-7515161. (6-12t-22p-ts) 1-800-922-7255. (5-3t-52p) (10-12t-21p) FOR HOMEMAKERS GRAIN DRYERS — Stormor Ezee-Dry. Farm BED AND BREAKFAST AT LUDINGTON on STRAWBERRY PLANTS — (Md virus free) Fans Automatic. Used Dryers, PTO and Auto- Good Creek. New. barn loft hide-away at Earlinglow All Star. Sparkle 25 - $5. 100 - $14, GUARDIAN SERVICE GLASS UDS! Hundreds matic. Hamilton Distributing Co., phone 1.000 - $75. Add 15% shipping. 1 & J Wolver- creek's edge. Grace and Robert 616- of other cookware parts. Stevensons, Box 616-751-5161. (6-12t-17p-ts) ton Nursery. 6197 Lake. Millington. Ml 48746. 843-9768. (3-4t-20p) 3392RL. Orange, Calif. 92665. (2-4t-15p-ts) Phone 517-871-2325. (4-2t-26p-ts) TRACTOR REPAIR MANUALS — How to re FOR SALE: BAG SAWDUST AND WOOD PECANS: Quart each halves, pieces, meal. pair your tractor. Write today for free catalog. SHAVINGS for nursery or livestock bedding. Three-quart sampler. $9.95. Canecreek Farm, Russell Stevens. Route 1. Box 320. Coushatta, $1.50 per bag. Phone 313-724-0326 Delivery Cookeville, TN 38502-2727. (4-7t-15p-ts) La. 71019. (2-4t-20pts) available. (5-6t-16p) Advertisers' Index Rural Living would like to thank these advertisers for their support: Blue Cross Blue Shield 18 MACMA Direct Marketing 5 Countrymark, Inc 3 Safemark (MFB Group Purchasing) 16 Farm Bureau Insurance Group 24 Sav-on-Cars 2 Farm Bureau Travel Service 21, 22 MAY 1987, RURAL LIVING 23 Michigan Farm Families... Get the Protection YouWant and the Cash You Need From Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company of Michigan Meeting the needs of a family requires a Universal Life is so flexible that it can lot of planning and a lot of money That's meet your life insurance needs for your entire why a Universal Life policy from Farm Bureau lifetime. 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Making your future FARM BUREAU ~ a little more predictable INSURANCE - IIlJVu WTlJIt GROUR • f/lIN IIllllAU 111 • _ IIlRAU GENERAL • fB ~ Michigan farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine Non-Profit Org. P.O. Box 30960 U.S. Postage 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy. P A 10 Lansing, Michigan 48909 Grand Rapids, MI Permit No. 380