~ ~ WHILE YOU'RE TAKING CARE OF THIS COUNTR~ .. G ood health makes good farming sense, because you depend on your $1000 per family each year. CMM 1000: Take advantage family. But keeping down of cost effectiveness and your cost also makes for quality benefits with a good sense, so you have to deductible of $1000 per get the best health care for member, $2000 per family your dollar. each year. At Farm Bureau we know HMO Option: The only that, because weve been way for farm families to take insuring Michigan's farming advantage of HMO coverage community for over 40 years. and convenience on a group And we also know that every rate basis. Depending on your family's needs are different. location, you could receive That's why we don't just care through one of our offer one plan and say take FARM BUREAU HMO Groups. it or leave it. Instead, we take a long, hard look at the IS HELPING For More Information: Contact your county's Farm insurance available-then offer the best to our members, TAKE CARE OF Bureau secretary to find out at low group rates. YOUR FAMILY more about the ways Farm Bureau is helping you take Heres a quick look at your care of yours. Or fill out four Farm Bureau Health Insurance options: the coupon below and mail it to: Michigan Farm Bureau, Member Services Dept., P.O. Box 30960, CMM 250: You share the cost in this benefit, Lansing, MI 48909. rich plan with a deductible of $250 per member, $500 per family, each year with a $3 copay for --------------------------------------- I PLEASE SEND ME INFORMATION I I each covered prescription or refill; includes a NAME I I Preadmission Review Program and a Personal Case ADDRESS I I Management Plan. I ~,~= __ CITY STATE I I CMM 500: Receive the total range of basic ZIP DDDDD PHONE ( ) I comprehensive benefits, but pay a lower premium with a deductible of $500 per member, _! ~~~uJ For the location of your nearest County Farm Bureau Office call 1 (800) 292-2639, ask for ext. 537 or 538 AN EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR FARM BUREAU MEMBERS * Free First Year Membership Fee $12.00 annual fee thereafter * Cash Advance 24-hours a day Almost 3000 Automatic Teller Machines in Michigan alone "'"Credit Card Checks Consolidate your credit cards or use for revolving credit purchases * $100,000 Common Carrier Travel & Accident Insurance ;;:Car Rental Discounts at Avis@ Hertz@ Corporation, and Na- tional Car Rental@ APPLY NOW FOR YOUR FREE FIRST YEAR VISA@ MEMBERSHIP You've asked us for a special Farm Bureau credit card - in response, we've put together a truly exciting program. This program is a special offer only available to Farm Bureau members. With this card, you'll have the exclusive opportunity to show your involvement with the Michigan Farm Bureau. and you'll receive the unique features that make this card more than just another line of credit. Contact your county Farm Bureau office for an application. FaRm~ BUreaU MONEY~ VISA. Good Ideas Get Better When They're Shared Alcona - Oct. 26 Livingston - Oct. 2 I Allegan - Oct. 8 Mackinac-Luce - Oct. 12 Alpena - Oct. 22 Macomb - Oct. 15 Antrim - Oct. 14 Manistee - Oct. 19 Arenac - Oct. 12 Mason - Oct. 6 Benzie - Oct. 12 Mecosta - Oct. 5 Berrien - Oct. 30 Menominee - Oct. 8 Calhoun - Oct. 13 Missaukee - Oct. 3 Cass - Oct. 5 Montcalm - Oct. 22 Charlevoix - Oct. 10 Montmorency - Oct. 2 I Cheboygan - Oct. IS Muskegon - Oct. IS Chippewa - Oct. 20 Newaygo - Oct. 8 Clare - Oct. 3 Northwest Michigan - Oct. 14 Clinton - Oct. 17 Oakland - Oct. 8 Copper Country - Oct. 10 Oceana - Oct. 19 Eaton - Oct. 3 Ogemaw - Oct. 29 Emmet - Oct. 26 Osceola - Oct. 20 Genesee - Oct. 6 Otsego - Oct. 27 Gladwin - Oct. 6 Ottawa - Oct. IS Hiawathaland - Oct. 29 Presque Isle - Oct. 6 -Ingham - Oct. 10 5t. Joseph - Oct. 3 I Ionia - Oct. 5 Van Buren - Oct. 22 losco - Oct. 14 Washtenaw - Oct. 7 Iron Range - Oct. 18 Wayne - Oct. 6 Isabella - Oct. 1-4 Wexford - Oct. 13 Kalamazoo - Oct. 6 Counties not listed Kalkaska - Oct. 2 I have already held their Lapeer - Oct. 8 1987 annual meeting Attend Your County Annual Meeting Contact your county Farm Bureau secretary for more information 4 RURAL LIVING. OCTOBER 1987 VOL. 64 NO.9 October 1987 Tune in to the "Farm Bureau A Publication of the Michigan Farm Bureau Review" Hear the latest information on About the Cover Farm Bureau organizational Rural scenes in Autumn create picture activities and events on the perfect views like this one throughout Michigan. weekly 5-minute "Farm Bureau Review" radio show aired on these stations: STATION AIR TIME In This Issue WATl. Alpl'lld b.20 (} m Sal WAB.I. Adridn 12.27 p 111 Sal New Teaching Series Celebrates Our Agricul- WPAG. Anll Arbor h.20 eI 111 Sal tural Heritage MFB. the Michigan Cooperative Exten- WLEW. Bad Axl' sion Service and the Agricultural Experiment Station have WHf-=B. Helltoll Harbor WRRN. WKYO. Big Caro Rapld~ b 20 eI 111 Selt 8 cooperated to develop and introduce a new teaching and learning series for Michigan's third and fourth grade students. WTVR. Coldwater 12 :):) p 111 Tul's W[)OW. [)owagiac h20 a 111 Selt America & Me FBIG's 19th annual essay contest en- WZXM. Gaylord courages Michigan youth to explore their roles in America's WPLB. WCSR. WIlTe. Grl'l'nvilll' Hillsdale Holland b.20 a m 12 15 p.m Sat Sat 10 future with the 1987-88 theme "What the Future of America Holds for Me." WK7.0. Kalcllllal()O Farm Tour Held In Tuscola County Laurie WKl.A. l.udington Acres in Tuscola County was just one of the farm visits sched- WSMA. Marine City b'2l! a.m. Sat. W[)M,j. WCEN. WOAP. MarqUl'lll' Mt Owosso Pleasant 7 17 a.m. 6:20 620 a m a m Sat. Sat. Sat. 12 uled by CES personnel who hosted ANR Dean Dr. James Anderson and CES Director Wally Moline. Sept. 2. WSGW. WMKe. Saginaw St Ignace S:05.6 a.m. Sat. Columns WMLM. St. Louis 6:30 a.m. Sat WMIe. Sandusky 6:20 a.m. Sat President's Message 6 Agrinomic Update ... .17 WKJe. Tawas City 6:20 a.m. Sat. Legislative Review 7 Grassroots Perspective .19 630 WTCM. Traverse City a.m Sat. Country Almanac. .14 Farm Bureau Market Place .23 WBMB. Wl'st Branch 6:20 a m. Sat. Rural Exchange ., .16 Advertisers' Index . .23 • Conto« t tIlt' ~t(Jl/l'" for dill' (Inti tUlIt' of wrltl!-l Rural Living is Published Monthly: on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bureau Infor. A new Michigan Farm Bureau 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 information service to enhance Box 30960 (zip 489(9): phone 517.323.7000. extension 510. the activities of county Farm 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 Bureaus and Community Michigan Form News. name changed to Michigan Form Nell'S Rural Lilling Dec 1. 1981. Third.c1ass postage paid at Lansing. Michigan. and at additional mailing offices. Action Groups. Editorial: Connie Turbin. Editor and Business Manager: Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor: Marcia Ditchie. Associate Editor: Kimberly Marshell. Associate Editor and Production Manager. Contact your local station. Let them Officers: Michigan Farm Bureau President. Jack Laurie. Cass City: Vice President. Wayne Wood. Marlette: Administrative Director. Charles Burkett: Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. Tom Parker. know you appreciate their airing of Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. the "Farm Bureau Review"! Directors: District 1. Marlin Outman. Constantine: District 2. Blaine VanSickle. Marshall: District 3. James Sayre. Belleville: District 4. Charleen Thompson. Freeport: District 5. Mark Smuts. Charlotte: District b. Jack Laurie. Cass City: District 7. Larry Snider. Hart: Distrirt R. Lvle LeCronier. Freeland: District 9. Robert Gregory. Traverse City: District 10. Margaret Kartes. West Branch. District II. Robert Wahmhoff. Baraga. At. GET THE LATEST SCOOP ON large: David Conklin. Corunna: Wayne Wood. Marlette. Richard Leach. Sagina\lJ Farm Bureau Women Diane Horning. Man~hester. Young Farmers: Ed Cagnev. Scotts YOUR ORGANIZATION. OCTOBER 1987. RURAL LIVING 5 President's Message Preparing for Our Future Policy development time gives us as farmers and Farm Bureau members the opportunity to review our organization and our industry and to have input into the direction we want the Farm Bureau and agriculture to take in the future. My observations of policy development discussions held thus far, make it clear to me that Farm Bureau members this year are especially concerned about the economic condition of our industry and how we as farmers can make an adequate living from the business of farming. Traveling around Michigan, it is clear to see that the best oppor- tunity for farmers to increase their net farm income is by further development of "value-added" products. The "value-added" commodity that is most obvious for expansion in our state is the animal agriculture industry. Michigan has a successful, large and diversified fruit industry. But, fruit production is regulated by a limited amount of productive locations. In addition, there has to be some concern over market saturation when you look at this year's huge fruit crop and the kind of expanded produc- tion that is taking place in other parts of the country. Grain production has other problems besides overproduction. Michigan farmers are really too far north to consistently get competitive yields. In addition, we face a transportation disadvantage when com- Seeds pared to the corn belt because of our location away from the main flow of grain. .Laurie Farms was among the But, luckily, we have some great advantages and untapped resources Tuscola County farms visited by when it comes to livestock production. Dr. James Anderson, dean of Our land and climate are excellent for grazing. the MSU College of Agriculture We can produce a very good forage crop that is outstanding for and Natural Resources, when livestock. he toured area farms on Sept. In addition, our farms are located close to some of the greatest con- 2. (See the contents page to centrations of population in our country ... a great benefit when it comes locate related article.) to transportation and marketing . There is a tremendous opportunity for tapping a source of addi- • MFB President Jack Laurie was tional farm income in our state. But the key to unlocking that potential in the audience as District 6 is finding an equitable solution to the problem of livestock waste Young Farmers competed in management. the district round of the Discus- If we as farmers fail to develop a cost-effective, environmentally ac- sion Meet on Sept. 4. The topic ceptable method of handling this problem, there will be rules imposed question was "Should under- upon us ... rules that could very well limit the expansion of animal developed countries receive agriculture. U .S. aid to help establish their The question is simple. Will we expand animal agriculture, and the agricultural economies?" income opportunities it offers, or will we have limits that prohibit the potential of livestock production? .During September President The answer is up to us. We must work closely with our land grant Laurie was scheduled to attend university to develop our waste management options and alternatives. county FB annual meetings in This would allow us to work with consumers to find responsible solu- Huron, Monroe, 5t. Clair, and tions to this problem that will permit everyone to live and work together Barry counties. effectively . I urge you to give close consideration to this issue during your • President Laurie welcomed the policy discussions this fall. The alternatives you develop will be crucial to recently appointed members of the future of your industry. the MFB Promotion and Educa- tion Committee to FB Center in Lansing, Sept. 25. Committee 6 JJ~'~~ . Michigan Farm Bureau members met to review the role of the committee . RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1987 Legislative Review Lawmakers Face Major Issues in Fall Sessions Washington in price support loan levels as pro- vided in the 1985 Farm Bill with the by the House Agriculture Committee: • FCS legislation should from the expectation that such provisions outset allow for a method of funding FIFRA Modifications - AFBF could result in a reduction of car- which avoids the yearly appropria- • is urging Congress to take action ryout stocks of grain. The organiza- tions process. to stimulate competition in the agri- tion also recommended continuation • Funding the FCS should not come cultural chemical industry and make of advance deficiency payments in from farm programs. farm chemicals less costly. 1988 at the same level used in • FCS reorganization should be done Members of the House and 1987, to offer recourse loans on in an orderly and timely manner and Senate agriculture committees work- corn silage on a grain equivalent not disruptive of adequate sources of ing on modifications to the Federal basis and to increase the rate of pay- credit. Insecticide, Fungicide and Roden- ment for storage of crops in the • AFBF opposes inclusion of manda- ticide Act (F1FRA) will be urged to farmer-owned reserve or emergency tory mediation and federal government change the law to allow a chemical extended loan programs. Based on cost-sharing of mediation programs. 0 company to manufacture "generic" USDA's own figures, there is justifi- chemicals without compensating cation of an increase of at least 10 another company for its research cents a year from the current storage rate of 26.5 cents per bushel. Lansing and development of the chemical. Under current law, a non-research chemi.cal company must compensate Farm Credit System The Legislature returned • Reorganization - In early • to Lansing for the fall the basic research companies for en- vironmental, health and safety data September, directors of the Farm session on Sept. 22 - Major when seeking to register a generic Credit System worked out an alter- issues on the legislative agenda in- version of their pesticides. Current native to the Stenholm reorganiza- clude: property tax reduction for law requires such compensation for tion plan for FCS which was attached schools and school finance; con- five years following expiration of a to the bill passed by the House sideration of the governor's veto of patent. Agriculture Committee. budget items; product liability reform; In cases where generic pesticides The FCS directors' proposal is as 65 mph speed limit; traffic safety have entered the market, prices follows: issues; highway and roads formula have fallen an average of 20 per- • Immediate merger of Federal land and numerous bills left over from the cent. For example, when Atrazine Banks (FlB) and Federal Interme- session that recessed in early July. went off patent in the mid-1970s, diate Credit Banks (F1CB) in districts Property tax and school finance is the price fell from about $2.75 to receiving federal financial assistance. the major issue for the fall session. $2 per pound. • Within six months, stockholders in As reported in previous issues of Many more generic chemicals the other districts not receiving Rural Living, dozens of bills have would be made available at lower federal financial assistance would been introduced by various represen- prices if the data compensation re- vote whether or not they wanted to tatives and senators. One example quirements in F1FRA were repealed. merge the FlB and F1CB in their of the importance of this issue to During the next five years 21 pesti- district. farmers is that one bill would cide patents will expire. These pro- • In districts where banks are merged, eliminate the present sales tax ex- ducts represent about 45 percent of stockholders would vote within one emption for agricultural imports all pesticides in use today. Estimated year whether or not they wanted to (seeds, feeds, fertilizer, machinery, savings to farmers would be between merge their FlBs and Production chemicals, equipment, etc.). $400 to $500 million. Credit Associations (PCAs). Receiv- The most recent legislative pro- AFBF will also urge lawmakers to ing federal financial assistance is not posal has just been released by the extend the patent term for products contingent on these mergers, however. House Republican Task Force on delayed in EPA health and safety .Within 18 months, voting by stock- Property Tax and School Finance processes. holders would take place on merging Reform. This Republican Task Force the present 12 farm credit districts was composed of Reps. Mike Nye, Feed Grain Recommenda- into no more than six . Paul Waitner (co-chairs) William • tions - AFBF has recom- Members of the AFBF Board of Bryant, Joanne Emmons, Dan mended reduced acreage of feed Directors identified four concerns Gilmer, Susan Grimes Munsell, and grains next year and 5 percent cuts regarding the Stenholm plan passed Glen Oxender. (continued on page 21) OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING 7 New Teaching Series Celebrates Our Agricultural Heritage By Karen Pace and Kimberly Marshell A griculture may be one of Michigan's largest industries, but few people are aware of the state's history as a leader in agri- teers who are trained to present it to classes. A training conference for Ag in the Classroom participants is held "Our long term goal is to have students at grade levels K-12 learn more about farming and agriculture." The "Ag Science in a Kid's World" cultural innovation and research. annually in the fall. It draws over series of lessons was created in This fall, through the cooperative ef- 100 volunteers interested in fostering honor of the centennial anniversary forts of several agencies, young peo- a positive awareness of agriculture of the signing of the Hatch Act and ple in schools around the state will and how food is produced. This the 1888 creation of the Michigan have the chance to explore many of year, the "Ag Science in a Kid's AES. Michigan's agricultural product World" series made its debut at the The Hatch Act, passed by Con- contributions. conference held in Mt. Pleasant on gress in 1887, provided for agri- "Ag Science in a Kid's World" is a Sept. 15. cultural research units at each state 12-part series that was developed by "Right now, the target grades in land-grant college or university. On specialists from Michigan Farm Bureau our Ag in the Class- Feb. 26, 1888, the Michigan Legis- and the Michigan Cooperative Ex- room program tension Service (CES) and the Agri- are third and fourth," cultural Experiment Station (AES) said Julie Cham- for third and fourth grade students. berlain, MFB The teaching and learning series is Women's Depart- being distributed in schools across ment manager. Michigan through the Ag in the Classroom program by FB volun- 8 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1987 ature approved the development of a Michigan AES to be based at what was then Michigan Agriculture Col- lege and is now Michigan State University. Today, there are 14 Experiment Station units located throughout the state where MSU scientists are carry- ing out research studies on subjects ranging from growing pines to grow- ing apples, and speeding up cattle growth to slowing down erosion. "Many youngsters, especially those in urban areas, don't know where their food comes from," said Jane Taylor, 4- H extension associate. "This series shows them not only how their food originates on farms, but also how farmers learn more effi- cient farming methods from the Cooperative Extension Service and the Agricultural Experiment Station." Each of the 12 lessons focuses on "Our long term goal is to have a different aspect of Michigan agricultural research in the past or students at grade levels K-12 present, including sugar beet pro- cessing, honey production and use, learn more about farming and milk and dairy products, and genetic research. agriculture. " There is also an accompanying board game that helps youngsters trace the progress of early innovators and ideas, a four-color poster that can be hung in the classroom, and a set of scratch-and-sniff stickers for such Michigan farm products as cherries and blueberries. Lessons are made up of inter- esting information about the subject, a related activity such as a word search or crossword puzzle, and one science experience. For example, the dairy lesson discusses the Michigan AES's contribution of frozen whipping cream to American freezers and features a science ex- perience that allows youngsters to make their own cottage cheese. "Our goal is to train 100 volun- teers who will visit 1,000 classrooms and reach 30,000 youngsters," Jane said. "FB. volunteers routinely visit elementary schools to speak about their part in agricultural production and sometimes bring calves or chicks for children to see. We're just ex- panding a system that is already established. " 0 Karen Pace is the information coordinator for Michigan 4-H. OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING 9 Farm Bureau Insurance Group Kicks Off 19th Annual Essay Contest By Carrie Thorn T he 19th annual America & Me Essay Contest will begin later this month with students from more than 600 Michigan schools ex- pected to participate. . Contest awards are presented on both the local and statewide levels. First, second and third place winners are chosen from each participating school and the three top essayists receives a plaque engraved with the name of the school's first place win- ner that will remain on permanent display in the school so that the names of future winners can be Sponsored since 1968 by Farm are awarded embossed honor cer- added. Bureau Insurance Group, the essay tificates. In addition, each school Once the school-level judging is contest encourages Michigan young completed, all first place school win- people to explore their roles in ners are entered into the statewide America's future. The topic for this judging. The best ten entries from year is "What the Future of America I know someday I will this group become the statewide Holds for Me ," and more than make a difference. I know winners in the essay contest. A 6,000 eighth graders from around panel of finalist judges - including the state are expected to submit that my small voice is im- Gov. James Blanchard, Lt. Gov. essays in the contest, to be held portant because without Martha Griffiths, U. S. Rep. Bob from Oct. 26 to Nov. 13. it, America is missing a Carr, and Lansing-area broadcast A mailing early this month will in- personality Howard Lancour - member of its family. ranks the top ten essays, from first vite eighth grade classes from all Michigan junior high and middle Knowing you are impor- through tenth place. Then, late next schools to participate in the contest. tant and knowing you spring, FBIG will bring the top ten FBIG agents coordinate the contest can make a difference is statewide winners to Lansing for an in their local schools, and judging is awards day at the State Capitol and done in the home office in Lansing. what America is all an awards banquet, where the Questions about the essay contest about. young winners will learn which of should be addressed to local FBIG the top ten places they have been agents. Landi Lowell awarded and receive savings bonds Meachum Junior High School ranging in value from $500 to Millington $1,000. 10 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1987 The America & Me Essay Contest, in its 19 years of existence, has earned praise from students, educa- tors and newspaper columnists. The Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge has honored the program with national awards 11 times. FBIG is proud to again offer this educational program to Michigan schools. People contribute to America's future in many ways. They do this by be- Rebecca Rushlow, who authored the first place essay in the 1986-87 contest ing aware of problems received a $1,000 savings bond and a plaquefrom FBIG Executive Vice and then getting involved. President Bob Wiseman during the awards luncheon held in May. Then they look for solu- tions to the problems. America isn't great First Place Essay because of uninvolved 18th Annual America & Me Essay Contest people. America is great because people care and HOW I CAN CONTRIBUTE TO get involved. AMERICA'S FUTURE Mary Kay Ecken America b~gan with dreams and in many ways they materialized. We, the Caro Junior High School young people, the future of America, must keep these dreams alive and Caro maybe someday fulfill them. It does not take just one individual to fulfill these dreams but many. I will try my best to help my fellow Americans in any way I can. I may never see these dreams come true but as one man said, "To accomplish great things we must not only dream but also act; not only believe but also plan." A booklet containing the top ten In the future, I plan on choosing teaching as my profession because I feel winning essays from the 1986-87 it would give me the opportunity to work with the nation's young people. I America & Me Contest is available feel the object of education is to prepare the young to educate themselves from FBIG. throughout their lives, and as for myself, to teach is to learn twice. The booklet, "America & Me: To be worthy of my fine heritage as an American, I must always be mind- Reflections on America," also con- ful of my individual responsibility for my fellow men and women. Fortun- tains excerpts from some of the ately, our country has always been blessed with people who understand that other best entries in the 18th annual the needs and strengths of our families, neighborhoods and communities are contest, which ended last May. interwoven. In a free society, I as an individual cannot always make the dif- Persons interested in receiving ference but the nation is made up of many individuals who make America complimentary copies of the essay what it is. contest booklet should address re- I have always believed that this land was set aside for those who had a quests to: Essay Contest Booklet, special love of faith, freedom and peace. These are the strengths that make Communications Department, Farm me believe more than ever before that the future is not something to fear. Bureau Insurance Group, P.O. Today's problems can be tomorrow's triumphs. If we continue to work 30400, Lansing, Michigan 48933. 0 together mindful of our proud history and the blessing God has showered upon beloved America, we can accomplish anything. I plan to live my life with the knowledge that in the beginning there was, Carrie Thorn is the communica- in the American mind, an awareness that life is complicated, serious, and tions coordinator for the Farm full of dreams that are frail. I will put my time and energy into making these Bureau Insurance Group. dreams come alive ... and I am proud to be part of America's future. Rebecca Rushlow Saline Middle School Saline OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING 11 Farm Tour Held in Tuscola County MFB President Jack Laurie's farm was just one of the stops on the Tuscola County CESfarmfour. The tour was set up for MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dean James Anderson and CES Director Wally Moline to view first-hand all four program areas of Extension and the Tuscola County office staff in action. One of the programs observed by the dean was for displaced farmers. Business owners and the people they have hired through the displaced farmers program had the opportunity to talk with the dean about the importance of this program. Said one farmer farmer, "When you go to the MESC you're just another person without a job. " It was through the displaced farmers program that he was able to find employment with an agricultural chemical fertilizer firm. He has done so well with the firm, that other outlets are now re- questing people from the displaced farmers program. 12 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1987 MFB Hosts Meeting of Report Prompts Discussion Livestock Interests T he "Preliminary Report of the Animal Waste Resource Com- mittee " recently released by the Michigan Department of Agriculture, is currently the most talked about public~tion in the state's farm community. Some say it is also the most mIsun- derstood. M FB President Jack Laurie invited representatives of the state's animal agri- culture industry to FB Center Sept. 11 to review the preliminary Just what is this publication that's causing so much consterna- report of the MDA's Animal tion in the country? It is a preliminary report - with the accent Waste Resource Committee. Of- on preliminary. It is a working document, a vehicle to stimulate ficials from MDA and MSU also discussion on an issue that will not go away if it's ignored and to participated in the meeting. gain input for solutions to problems that do exist. . '. "We felt it was necessary to get What is it not? It is not a final report. It is not law. DISCUSSion together with those folks repre- meetings and public hearings are on the agenda before a final senting the livestock and poultry report is drafted. The Commission on Agriculture must approve commodity organizations to the final report before it goes to the Legislature. discuss what their impression of The final "product" will impact the future direction of Michigan the report was, how they analyz- agriculture, so all farmers - not just livestock and pou~try ?ro-. ed it, and the direction they felt it ducers - should play a key role in making sure that direction IS was leading us, and to discuss best for their industry. what direction we should take as Request a copy of the report, study it carefully, and be a total industry in working with prepared for the discussion meetings sche?~led for Decen:ber. the report in the future," Laurie Copies are available, upon request, by wntmg MDA, Envlro~men- said. tal Division, P.O. Box 30017, Lansing, Mich. 48909, or calhng Laurie said the group felt that 517-373-2620. the legislative portion of the report contained little new mate- Discussion Meetings rial that wasn't already being con- sidered within the industry, such Six discussion meetings in various parts of the state will provide as revisions to the Right to Farm you with an opportunity to ask questions about the report and get Act to clarify "generally accepted" the answers. Resource people from MDA, the Department of management practices. It is the Natural Resources, Cooperative Extension Service, and AWRC technical areas, he said, that is members will be there to make sure you do get the answers. causing concern in the agricul- Mark your calendars now and plan to participate in one of tural community. these meetings: Dec. 8, Kalamazoo; Dec. 9, Manchester; Dec. "We are concerned with those 10, St. Johns; Dec. 15, Marlette; Dec. 16, Lake City; and Dec. technical areas involving setback, 17, Escanaba. For information on meeting sites and times, call facility construction, and areas the MDA, 517-373-2620. that each individual farmer would be concerned with as he dev- Public Hearings elops his livestock manure management facility. You've done your homework - read the report, partici?ated in "We intend to address the the discussion meetings, and gotten answers to your questions. areas that are addressed in the Now is the time for your valuable input. MDA will conduct public preliminary report and we intend hearings in late March and early April. It is at these public hear- to input this material into the ings that you can deliver your well-researched, carefully prepared report in the form of a recom- statements addressing specific areas of concern to you and pro- mendation at the time of the posing alternatives. A public comment peri?d will coin~ide. with public hearings," he said. the public hearings to provide an opportumty to submit wntten comments. SPECIAL SECTION OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING Farm Bureau Policy Development Focus on Animal Agriculture By Marcia Ditchie F arm Bureau's policy dev- Michigan is being challenged needs that can be generated for elopment process willbe vital once again and its main chal- the state's livestock producers. It's in the coming weeks as the lenge is to find the most efficient critical to the future of all of organization addresses the animal and effective use of livestock agriculture,'~ said Laurie. agriculture issue. by-products. "Every year we start our policy "As the state's largest farm Why FB Needs Policy development process without any organization, Farm Bureau needs restrictions or preconceived direc- the direction of its members so "Livestock environmental ques- tion as to where we should go," that we can continue to uphold tions are coming up practically said MFB President Jack Laurie. the credibility we have with the daily and we will need strong "We ask our members what Legislature, the Michigan Depart- policy developed by our mem- policies they want to govern their ment of Agriculture and to work bers as a foundation to allow the organization during the coming with the university and other leadership of Farm Bureau to year ." agencies," said Wood. take a position on those Laurie explained that an idea Laurie added that this par- questions. that is surfaced in the county is ticular issue will have a dramatic "The whole area of environ- scrutinized many times before it impact on the entire livestock mental concerns will undoubtedly becomes organizational policy. industry. be the number one issue in 1988 "There are about seven oppor- all through the industry. I look tunities to evaluate an idea and "The whole area of for it to be the main topic of to challenge its ability to lead the discussion at the state annual organization in the proper direc- environmental concerns meeting in December. This is so tion before it becomes policy. will undoubtedly be the critical to our future that I'm en- This process starts at the county number one issue in 1988 couraging the counties to make level and can, ultimately, pro- all through the industry. this the number one item of ceed to the national level. That's discussion," Laurie said. "This a unique way we have in our issue not only affects the "The future of the livestock in- organization to ensure that those livestock sector, it affects us all." dustry in this state will hinge policies which finally survive all Discussion on this issue at the upon the livestock issue," said these tests are the ones that the state annual meeting will not only Laurie. "Do we have a growing, members really believe in and . give the organization policy upon successful livestock industry?" he support. which to act in the coming year, asked, "or do we in effect stop "Legislators know that the but will also prepare members for the industry at the point it is to- policy presented to them has a series of discussion meetings day, or even possibly step been debated and met several and public hearingp that will fol- backwards? tests and represents the thinking low the annual meeting. "As we analyze the total in- of the membership of Farm "As an organization, we need dustry, we feel there is a lot of Bureau. It's a credible policy and to accept the challenge of inform- opportunity for growth in agri- legislators put a good deal of em- ing our members of the serious- culture in this state, but it basical- phasis on its importance," Laurie ness of this issue and to allow ly revolves around the growth of said. them to tell us what our policy the livestock industry," said "This is a tremendously impor- should be," said Wood. "We Laurie. tant issue to livestock farmers," need to prepare our members to "We can probably increase the said Wayne Wood, MFB vice participate in the discussion value of our agriculture products president and chairperson of the meetings on this issue in in Michigan by as much as 50 state Policy Development Com- December and to testify at the percent if we develop the type of mittee. "Livestock agriculture in public hearings in March and environment that lets the live- April." stock industry grow and meet the OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING SPECIAL SECTION .Addressing the Issue in Public Forums and on the Farm By Connie Turbin C oncern over handling of livestock and poultry by- products has emerged as one of the most critical policy The first step in this farmer by farmer awareness effort is to evaluate the routine management practices with regard to the poten- soil testing to determine nitrogen needs for desired yields and crops planning will provide nutrients at optimum time and and regulatory issues in the state. tial impact on air and water rate for plant uptake . Testing and Unfortunately, this complex ques- quality. Why? The primary con- planning are important c.om- tion is a long way from being cern is for the health and safety ponents in a management plan resolved. The need for agriculture of the farm family and to act that makes efficient use of the to be involved in the develop- responsibly in protecting ground- nutrients available in manure and ment of public policy cannot be water quality. Another very real protects the environment. overemphasized. In the coming consideration is that in the long "There are quite a few recom- months, producers will have run all of agriculture will be called mendations of this type listed in many opportunities to obtain ad- upon to give an accounting of its the AWRC preliminary report ditional information, evaluate the stewardship of the land and which can help to reduce odors," economic effects, present their water resources. he pointed out. personal viewpoints, and impact Of course, proper handling of For larger operations where the the final development of manure from livestock and collection and storage of manure standards. poultry operations will continue is necessary, Hogberg cites any Much has already been done to be a central issue. concrete, steel or glass-lined to encourage involvement by FB What can individual producers storage facility, or the "environ- members. Through FB representa- do to improve management of etics" rubberized bag as effective tion on the the Animal Waste animal by-products? According to management systems for protec- Resource Committee, information Dr. Maynard Hogberg, chairper- ting water quality. With regard to articles in the FB publication son of MSU's Animal Science reducing the odors associated Rural Living, discussion by FB Department, there are number of with manure collection and Community Action Groups, "size neutral" practices which can storage, he recommends covering meetings with Michigan livestock help reduce odor nuisance in the storage unit to reduce the and poultry groups, and regional handling manure. Most are just amount of air moving over the meetings in September with FB common sense thinking and surface. leaders to discuss the issue, FB good housekeeping practices, he has acted to increase agriculture's said. Hogberg suggested, for ex- awareness and involvement in ample, that manure spreading be The first step in this the issue. Still ahead is the all- done in the morning with incor- farmer by farmer aware- important FB policy-setting ses- poration as soon as possible and ness effort is to evaluate the sion at the organization's annual paying attention to wind direc- meeting, Dec. 1-4. tion. Soil injection, knifing in or routine management prac- However, farmers in every seg- discing to follow up broadcast of tices with regard to the ment of production agriculture, manure are recommended prac- potential impact on air as representatives of their in- tices. The principle, he said, and water quality. dustry in the community and as whether in storing manure or for individuals, can play an impor- field application is to reduce ex- tant role in demonstrating posure to the air. agriculture's commitment to Relatively simple, but effective, maintaining air and water quality. management practices such as SPECIAL SECTION OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING Effective? Yes, but not 100%. laws are "pretty nebulous" and farm is managing the manure Costly? Certainly. Nevertheless, stressed that there does need to with little or no odor. Lake Hogberg contends that "anytime be some clear cut definitions in monitoring verifies that the farm you get to the point in your the law. is not adversely affecting water operation where you have to "Agriculture cannot continue to quality. store manure, a system of this be pulled into court to answer Researchers in Michigan and type has to be included as a cost challenges to animal agriculture. around the country are also in- of production." The costs are prohibitive and terested in the management of Producers, he said, need not eventually the industry will lose animal by-products employed by necessarily bear the cost of ma- out," Hogberg cautions. the Japanese. Hogberg relates nure storage installations alone. Studies and research for new that hog operations in Japan are Programs such as the Agricultural farm management technologies very near major population Conservation Program adminis- offer alternatives for the future. centers, but they have been able tered by the Soil Conservation According to Hogberg, Michigan to greatly reduce odors asso- Service may provide technical is certainly among the leading ciated with animal agriculture - assistance and cost sharing to the states in addressing the issue in by as much as 95%-99%. The farm operator. Hogberg feels that both public policy and research. Japanese hog producers mechani- such public funding should con- "California is doing some very cally scrape and run a continuous tinue to be available and expand- important work with regard to conveyor belt below slatted floors ed. "This issue of water and air balancing agricultural interests, in their facilities. They also utilize quality affects everyone and it is residential and tourism considera- liquid-solid separation and appropriate that some portion of tions in that state," he said. composting. the cost to agricultural operations Hogberg pointed with pride to At present there are no major be financed b'y public dollars." he the work being done by MSU at breakthroughs in this research said. the Kellogg Biological Station area, but Hogberg said there is He also advised producers to near Battle Creek. "I am not great potential for the future familiarize themselves with the aware of any other state that is through the continued advances existing state and federal regula- conducting a project with the in agricultural science, micro- tions which govern the storage or wholistic focus of maintaining the biology, biotechnology and discharge of animal by products. environment and an agricultural genetic engineering. "We may "Basically, for any facility which operation," he said. soon see the day that we can directly discharges into streams, The KBS project is a dairy prevent odors through altering or facilities with over 1,000 animal farm with a nearby lake. Using a the bacteria, or by changing feed units there are currently federal system of liquid-solid separation components. " and state requirements to obtain and composting, the KBS dairy a discharge permit," Hogberg said. He added that the current OCTOBER 1987. RURAL LIVING One Farmer's Experience By Kimberly Marshell F or 39 years Tony Calderone four years ago, when he decided fourth of a mile north of has been farming an area of to raise hogs again. He installed Calderone first voiced his objec- Jackson County that was in aerators and separators when he tion to the operation. Calderone agriculture for well over 50 years reinstated the hog operation. In said the man did not commun- before he arrived. His farm is in 1985, he decided to double his icate with him again. After con- an area 12 miles east of Jackson production to 10,000 and sub- struction of the lagoon started in and five miles from Grass Lake. mitted plans for expansion of his July 1986, Calderone said he To his knowedge, the land has operation, which included build- was notified that a lawsuit had been zoned agricultural ever since ing a lagoon transfer system and been filed against him by this it's been zoned. double-lined lagoon. man and two others who were Currently, Calderone owns and unknown to him. operates a 10,000 head hog "I had all the permits that I operation and plans to continue knew of before I expanded the farming in Jackson County, operation," said Calderone. which is why he enrolled his farm These permits included driveway, in Public Act 116, the state's septic, well and monitoring well. Farmland and Open Space "I did everything in the order that Preservation program. He has I was supposed to. We've com- over $150,000 invested in pollu- plied with every rule that we tion control and pollution moni- know of. toring devices for his liquid "We don't have animal waste. manure system. We have liquid fertilizer, which is Despite Calderone's efforts to a natural resource. On this opera- run a modern hog operation, he tion here, our liquid fertilizer has had a lawsuit filed against from hogs is worth approximately him by three people. One person $100,000 a year. . .figures that lives one-fourth of a mile north are easily verifiable by any of the Calderone farm, another "ecomonic student at Michigan lives four to five miles north, the State University." third person is from Grosse Ron Nelson (left), legal counsel for Pointe (near Detroit), who MFB, talks with Tony Calderone Swine Industry in Michigan recreates in the area. According about his hog operation. The Today Calderone farm was just one of to Calderone, the suit alleges that several farms visited by the MFB his operation threatens the Natural Resources Advisory Commit- According to Kevin Kirk, MFB groundwater; threatens the fish, tee, including President Jack Laurie, commodities specialist, Michigan flora and fauna in all directions; to view and discuss manure manage- processors annually slaughter 5.2 and that the Water Resources ment and utilization. million hogs. But, Michigan only Committee should never have produces 1.7 million market hogs issued the permit for his aerobic "(The pollution control system) annually. manure digestion and disposal includes 11 monitoring wells and "That leaves Michigan impor- system. it requires a considerable amount ting 3.5 million hogs a year from of money each month for scien- Canada, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio Decision to Expand tific monitoring so that we are and other areas. Our state positive that we don't pollute," definitely has the potential to Calderone first raised hogs in said Calderone. produce that 3.5 million hog the 1950s and then stopped to The public hearing for his per- deficit," Kirk said. raise beef and dairy cattle until mit was held in May 1986. At this time, the man who lives one- SPECIAL SECTION OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING "We have the feed supply, the infrastructure, and we certainly have the land, that could pro- duce the three million plus hogs every year right here in Mich- igan. We would keep that money in the state and if you looked at all the jobs that would be created peripherally, it would have a significant impact on Michigan's econom y," said Calderone. "With the automobile industry diminishing every year, and it looks like that trend is going to continue, it seems like a horrible waste of all of our natural re- . sources not to produce the hogs right here in Michigan." According to the latest Michigan Department of Agri- MFB Natural Resources Advisory Committee toured Kellogg Biological Sta- culture figures, Michigan is rank- tion and met with specialists to discuss methods of maximum utilization of ed 13th in the nation for pork manure fertilizer to enhance profits and protect the environment. production. The industry annually grosses over $178 million. Detroit it creates, but we are also going future of Michigan agriculture. also has one of the largest pork to lose the pork packing busi- That future depends on expan- packing firms in the country. ness, which is going to further sion in the area of animal Frederick and Herrods' has the punish our job numbers in the agriculture. capacity to handle 18, 000 hogs a state. I think it's that simple," With the current migration of day, but they are. receiving less Calderone said. urban dwellers to rural areas and than 10,000 a day. the problem of urban misconcep- "By diminishing the production A Look Ahead tions about production agricul- of hogs in the state, we not only ture, it is easy to see why con- lose the business of hog produc- Calderone is only one of many flicts are rising. Instead of trying tion, and the peripheral jobs that farmers who are looking at the to understand and make ad- justments, lawsuits are filed against long-time farmers, like Calderone, by relative new- comers to the area. It is also, then, easy to understand Calderone's attitude now about these new-comers: "If you're living in an agri- cultural zone, and you are unhappy, then you should move out. What we've got now are people from the city moving into an agricultural zone and saying to the farmer 'you should quit farm- ing.' Well, I think it's just as much justice to turn around the other way and say, okay, you should take your house and move it out of here." Sands is a 22,000 head hog operation in Jackson County, near Parma, also visited by the MFB Natural Resources Advisory Committee. The committee views the first of three lagoons which receives and treats liquid manure after solids have been removed. The treated liquid is applied to crop land. SPECIAL SECTION OCTOBER 1987. RURAL LIVING Good Neighbor Policy Pays Dividend The Impact of Land Use and Zoning N o matter what revisions to Michigan's Right to Farm M any factors, including the changing landscape, have con- Act are made or what new tributed to the water and air quality issues facing rural regulations are promulgated as a Michigan. The development of larger farming operations result of current efforts to address with concentrations of animals and poultry has been a factor. environmental concerns, you Another factor is the growing number of residents in rural areas. can't legislate nor enforce a New residents to the rural area expecting a pristine environ- "good neighbor" policy. Yet MFB ment and natural surroundings, are often offended by odors Legislative Counsel Ron Nelson emanating from livestock operations. They may also express con- believes the age-old philosophy cern regarding water quality. would go a long way toward In some cases, the conflicts arise within the agricultural com- heading off potential problems munity itself, which are damaging to the total agriculture sector. between farmers and their non- Operations have been challenged by neighboring farmers who feel farm neighbors. that the enterprise is too large, not properly located or managed, "I know of many farmers who or different from the traditional agriculture in the area. have found that being good The question of property rights is a very serious issue. The neighbors pays off in dividends of public policy challenge is to balance the rights of individual pro- understanding and good-will," perty owners and farmers to protect the investments of both par- Nelson said. "One opens his ties and allow the opportunity for a return on their investment farm for a day to his neighbors, through sale of the property or production from the property. has a pig roast, and takes the Several townships have started developing zoning ordinances kids for a hay ride. Another in- which would place severe restrictions on the expansion and, in vites all the members of his some cases, even the existence of livestock and poultry opera- church to the farm for a hot dog tions. Theoretically, the ordinances are being proposed to protect roast. One raises corn for his rural residents, however, they may be placing potentially severe non-farm neighbors, and some and intolerable restrictions on a viable agriculture in the present their neighbors with a community. ham or even half a hog at Land use and zoning can be an important factor in protecting Christmas time. our citizens and natural resources, such as ground water. With Being good neighbors can also proper regard for soil type and aquifers, adequate planning can be fun, according to Karen and aid in the protection of these ground water resources. Bob Graham, Clinton County The development of buffer areas, Le., an area of land dairy farmers. They held a separating the high density farm operations and the residential number of neighborhood barn areas, is extremely' important. In fact, some of the proposed local dances before the economy put zoning ordinances speak to the size of operation, either the annual affair on hold. The establishing absolute maximums for the entire township or setting Grahams furnished the band, hot distance relationships to other residences. dogs and beverages; other folks Agriculture has an opportunity and a responsibility to review brought in finger foods - "no local ordinances, land use planning and zoning proposals to forks was the rule," Karen said. evaluate their impact not only on their own operation, but for all "I think it has helped relation- agricultural producers in that area. ships," Bob said. "A lot of peo- ple look around the farm while Prepared by Ron Nelson, legislative counsel for the Michigan they're here for the evening, and Farm Bureau. learn something about the opera- tion ." The Grahams plan to have another neighborhood barn dance next August to celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of Bob's parents. "We have lots of new neighbors, so it should be fun," Karen said. SPECIAL SECTION OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING Traverse City Captures World's Largest Cherry Pie Title By Phil Calvert T he world's largest cherry pie was baked and served in Michigan, July 25, in down- town Traverse City. By capturing the After the Guinness staff has reviewed and accepted the docu- mentation, Traverse City's achieve- ment will be listed as a new record Sponsorship for the world's record event was provided by the Michigan Cherry Committee (MCC), represen- ting over 2,000 growers, and Chef title away from neighboring Charlevoix, in next year's edition of the Guin- Pierre, Inc., a Traverse City-based which has held the title since 1976, ness Book of World Records. The food manufacturer. the Traverse City project took its book will record the pie at 28,330 For some time , Traverse City place as the single largest promo- pounds, measuring 18 feet across growers and representatives of Chef tional event ever for Michigan's and 26 inches deep. The Traverse Pierre discussed the undertaking as a cherry industry. City Maritime Commission sent promotional event for the cherry in- Working with state and local of- documentation in the form of pic- dustry and the Traverse City area. ficials to organize the culinary feat, tures and data to the "Guinness" Grower Bob Underwood, of Under- organizers set the date to coincide staff as confirmation. wood Orchards on the Old Mission with the National Governor's Con- The recipe for a record-breaking Peninsula, was an enthusiastic pro- ference in Traverse City. The event pie calls for record-breaking quan- moter. "I wanted to see the title of was also planned as a one of the tities in the ingredients list. Nine tons 'World's Largest Cherry Pie' moved Michigan Sesquicentennial activities. of Michigan cherries led the list of to Traverse City because it is the Thousands of people were on hand ingredients, which also included Cherry Capitol of the World," he for the celebration and to enjoy a 7,478 pounds of sugar, 1,081 pounds said. serving of the world's largest cherry of flour, 855 pounds of corn starch pie. and 703 pounds of shortening. (continued on page 22) Thousands of people gathered in Traverse City to witness and sample the world's largest cherry pie. OCTOBER 1987, RURAL LIVING 13 Country Almanac October Oct. County Farm Bureau Annual Oct. 4 Apple Festival, Belding. Meetings. See page 4 for listing. Oct. 9 District 10 Young Farmer District Oct.l District 3 Young Farmer District Discussion Meet, 7 p.m., Hidden Discussion Meet, 7:30 p.m., Valley Resort, Gaylord. Weber's Inn, Ann Arbor. Oct. 9-10 Pumpkin Festival, Bessemer. Oct. 2-4 Pumpkinfest, South Lyon. Oct. 9-12 Apple Fest, Bangor. Oct. 3-4 Sorghum Fest, Three Oaks. Oct. 18 Apple Fest, Port Huron. ~COntingUp~ Nov.9-11 MFB State Policy Development Dec. 10 Discussion Meeting on MDA Committee Meeting, Farm Bureau Animal Waste Resource Committee Center, Lansing. Recommendations, St. Johns. Nov. 10 District 4 Young Farmer District Dec. 10-11 MFB/FFA Producers Forum, Hilton Discussion Meet, Middleville Inn, Inn, Lansing. Middleville. Dec. 15 Discussion Meeting on MDA Dec. 1-4 MFB Annual Meeting, Grand Plaza Animal Waste Resource Committee Hotel and Grand Center, Grand Recommendations, MarIette. Rapids. Dee. 15-16 New Presidents Conference. Dec. 8 Discussion Meeting on MDA Dec. 16 Discussion Meeting on MDA Animal Waste Resource Committee Animal Waste Resource Committee Recommendations, Plainwell. Recommendations, Lake City. Dec. 9 Discussion Meeting on MDA Dec. 17 Discussion Meeting on MDA Animal Waste Resource Committee Animal Waste Resource Committee Recommendations, Manchester. Recommendations, Escanaba. 14 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1987 Go with the WINNER!! to Waikiki - Kauai - Kana Hawaii MARCH 2-12, 1988 INCLUDES: Roundtrip air from Lansing, Grand Rapids or Detroit 4 nights Waikiki-Sheraton Moana Hotel 2 nights Kauai-Sheraton Coconut Beach Hotel 3 nights Kona-Hotel King Kamehameha Traditional flower Lei Greeting Limited Availability All airport to hotel transfers Make Reservations Soon All taxes and porterage City tour of Honolulu and Arizona Memorial Circle Island Tour on Oahu with a stop at a Pineapple Field Wailau River and Fern Grotto Cruise on Kauai Visit an Orchid Nursery Volcano National Park Tour Visit to Parker Ranch with lunch included This group tour offered exclusively $1485 PER PERSON to Farm Bureau members. SHARING DOUBLE Call TOLL FREE r-------------------------. Please rush me the full-color information brochure describing the FARM BUREAU GROUP HAWAII TOUR. 1-800-331-1729 Name _ Address _ In Grand Rapids City/ Town State Zip Code 616-452-9556 MFB Membership' -...- _ Mail to: Farm Bureau Travel Service, 2421 Eastern Avenue, L ~an~Rapid:. Michiga~49507..:.. .J Use Farm Bureau Travel Service for convenience and savings on all of your business and personal travel. Farm Bureau Travel Service Rural Exchange State Promotion and Education FARMETIE By Andrea Hofmeister COInInittee Members NaIned The MFB Board of Directors ap- Women's Committee on Dec. 1, 1987. • pointed a 22-member Promotion County promotion and education and Education Committee to lead a committees will assess what the specific new state~de network designed to needs in their area are and then select promote the agricultural industry, projects that will address those partic- create linkages between tourism and ular needs. agriculture, and build a better under- Appointed to the MFB State Pro- standing with the non-farm public. motion and Education Committee for The new state committee and the one-year terms were: Alice Happel, committees that are being appointed in St. Joseph County (Dist. 1); Mark each county FB in Michigan will be Reister, Hillsdale County (Dist. 2); the first in the United States, and Joanne Darling, Monroe County reflect the organization's recognition of (Dist. 3); Lorna Wilson, Barry County the changing lifestyles in agriculture. (Dist. 4); Janet Lyon, Ingham County HLetme guess, it's too wet to combine?" The concept of a Promotion and (Dist. 5); Paul Swartzendruber, Huron Educatiqn Committee originated with County (Dist. 6); Elaine Gingrich, a group of 12 women appointed in 1986 by the MFB Board of Directors Osceola County (Dist. 7); Julie Schwab, Bay .county (Dist. 8); Dennis CAGs Can Win to study the future of Michigan Women's Committees. A survey con- Switalski, Manistee County (Dist. 9); Gert Rubingh, Antrim County (Dist. MACMA Ham ducted for this study revealed that 10); Marty Pokela, Hiawathaland (Dist. The first 100 CAGs who have more women were working off the 11) . • all their members, whose names farm or were taking on more farm Appointed to the committee for appear on their set up sheets, paid as chores than in the past. The women two-year terms were: Neal Nitz, Ber- 1988 members by Nov. 13, 1987, will surveyed said they would like to be in- rien County (Dist. 1); Janice Sanford, win a ham for the entire group to en- volved in promoting agriculture, but Jackson County (Dist. 2); Holly Ann could not shoulder all the respon- joy. Each ham weighs approximately Porter, Washtenaw County (Dist. 3); sibilities of carrying out the projects. Beth Finkbeiner, Kent County (Dist. five pounds and is a $12 value. They also expressed a desire to work 4); Gwen Nash, Clinton County (Dist. The hams will be delivered to the on FB projects with their spouses to 5); Robin Falker, Macomb County county drop point with the rest of the increase their time together. (Dist. 6); Sally Thomsen, Montcalm MACMA fall sale products. Voting delegates to the MFB annual County (Dist. 7); Mark Neitzke, Gratiot Details and the incentive form will meeting last December accepted the County (Dist. 8); Cheryl Kobernik, be included in the October CAG recommendations of the study commit- Benzie County (Dist. 9); Peter Smith, newsletter. 0 tee to establish the Promotion and Montmorency County (Dist. 10); Reb- Education Committee and dissolve the becca Clark, Mac-Luce (Dist. 11). 0 RURAL RASCALS FB NurserYInan Grows State's Best ChristInas Tree A seven-foot tall Colorado Blue the Christmas Tree Association's na- • Spruce grown by Villas Mohrland, tional contest next August. an Allegan County FB member, was Christmas is a year-round business named best in the state by the for 700 Michigan farmers who grow Michigan Christmas Tree Association. Christmas trees. According to the most More than 400 growers voted on recent Michigan Department of 70 entries. Characteristics considered in Agriculture figures, Michigan is the na- the selection were tree color, sym- tion's largest grower of plantation metry, straightness, and fullness. Christmas trees with an annual value Selection as top grower gives of $30 million. Every year, Michigan Connie, age 3, and Jennie, age 1, daughters Mohrland the opportunity to present ships approximately four million trees, of Cheboygan County FB members Tony two of his trees to Gov. Blanchard for some as far away as Hawaii. and Denise Hand, make good use of this his office and residence. Mohrland will Mohrland is the owner of Badger tractor tire qfter daddy could no Langer use also send a tree as Michigan's entry in Evergreen Nursery in Allegan. 0 it in the field. 16 RURAL LMNG, OcrOBER 1987 Agrinomic Update Cherry Market Update An early spring in 1987 allow- 190 million pounds for Michigan and due to the defeat of the federal • ed a near-ideal blossom period 250 million pounds nationally. When marketing order for red tart cherries and development of a relatively large that's added to the 1986 carryover in the 1986 national referendum. red tart .cherry crop. According to of 55.9 million pounds, a burden- Although a majority of Michigan the USDA June pre harvest estimate, some supply weighs on the cherry growers and processors voted for a near-record tart cherry crop of 280 market. continuing the marketing order, million pounds was forecast in Commercial demand last year was those in other cherry-producing Michigan. Including the production approximately 227 million pounds. states did not. The impact of this estimates for New York, Penn- When that's balanced against supply, defeat was illustrated when the sylvania, Wisconsin, Utah, Colorado one can quickly see why market Michigan Agricultural Cooperative and Oregon the national production prices have fallen dramatically and Marketing Association (MACMA) forecast was 354.2 million pounds. have not yet stablized. In fact, estimated that the loss of the federal Unfortunately, a severe wind there's little prospect that returns will marketing order will cost growers storm swept through northwestern cover growers' variable cost of pro- $35-40 million in 1987 due to the Michigan on July 20 - in the mid- duction of red tart cherries. relatively inelastic demand in the dle of harvest - causing significant cherry market. losses. Despite the wind storm Loss of Federal Marketing Order Federal marketing orders for fruits, losses, harvested production this vegetables and specialty crops are year is probably higher than the Another stabilizing force has been previous five-year annual average of eliminated from the cherry market (continued on next page) Don't take chances with BOOK rising feed costs. Lock in your feed costs. YOUR See your participating Countrymark BEEF FEED Member Association feed represent- ative today about all the details of the Beef Booking Program. NOW! For Results You Can Count On . Count On Country mark. 4565 Columbus Pike • Delaware, Ohio 43015 OCTOBER 1987. RURAL LIVING 17 Agrinomic Update found both positive and negative marketing order. For the new pro- (continued from previous page) economic effects. One area was the posal to be adopted it must be ap- use of "reserve pools," which was proved by two-thirds of the growers an important market stabilizing and a simple majority by volume of authorized under the Agricultural feature of the old red tart cherry production or two-thirds of the Marketing Act of 1937, as amended. order. volume of production and a simple These orders were established to From 1971 to 1986, the federal majority of growers. However, other maintain orderly marketing condi- cherry marketing order No. 930 was areas need to be addressed aside tions for agricultural producers. Cer- a valuable, self-help marketing tool from managing the supply of cher- tain restrictions on the quality for cherry producers. Without it, ries. Market development and pro- and/ or quantity of products that can there is no formal method to stabilize motion efforts should be encouraged be marketed are authorized by' these the market supply of cherries, nor to further stimulate demand. Finally, orders. The restrictions vary by structure to increase utilization in a price discovery process on a na- order, but they can include quality both the domestic and export tional basis needs to be developed regulations, quantity regulations or markets. as part of this "new, improved" market support activities such as marketing plan. 0 research, promotion or market infor- The Future Plan mation programs. Agrinomic Update was prepared During the 1970s, consumers and This fall and winter, MFB, the by Robert Craig, manager of the others began criticizing these orders Cooperative Extension Service, MFB Commodity Activities and because of their effect on food MACMA and others in the industry Research Department. prices. This criticism resulted in an will work together to obtain input extensive review of the federal from cherry growers and processors marketing order program by the on possible provisions for a new, im- Reagan Administration's Task Force proved marketing plan to include a on Regulatory Relief. The task force "new" federal red tart cherry DOSOMHHING TO MAKE YOUR HUSBAND JUMP UP AND DOWN. Convince him to join you in the kind of tact the American Heart Association sensible, regular exercise program that for more information on healthy habits can help prevent heart disease. And con- worth encouraging in those you love. WE'RE FIGHTING FOR YOUR LIFE t V American Heart Association 18 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1987 Grassroots Perspective "You Said It" East Moline Group Here are some comments and sug- Woude, invited a few new members gestions received from Community and several prospective members to Action Groups after their discussion his home. Eleven families met at of the Right to Farm Update which VanderWoude's home in Allegan appeared in the July-August issue of County on Feb. 24, 1958. The plan Rural Living magazine: was to. form at least one new com- munity discussion group, but in time • Better farm management is the best the result was three groups. protection against nuisance suits. Group member Bill DeVries • Provisions of Right to Farm should reports that the years have brought be more defined and include all fun and good fellowship and farms regardless of size of herd or understanding of neighbors, even as farm. they worked together for solutions to • Create buffer zones between farms local problems. and housing developments. The group celebrated their 25th • Have more zoning control relative Members of the East Moline CAG anniversary in April 1983 with all of to housing plats vs. farms. pictured on the steps of FB the original 11 families represented. • Farmers have to do a "careful" job Center, April 9, 1983. The celebration included a tour of of waste management. the FB offices in Lansing, luncheon, • All regulations add to production East Moline Group Celebrates and a tour of the state capitol guid- costs. 29th Anniversary ed by State Senator Ed Fredricks. • Existing regulations are about right In the early days of 1958, an am- but there is a need to enforce cur- bitious FB member, Tinus Vander- rent ones. • People who are farming and have Discussion Topic been farming need protection from nuisance suits. .Farmers should have more input into the development of these Farmovvners Insurance proposals. Are you a Michigan farmer? against a variety of property and • Do you have a quality farming casualty risks. In 1960, FB Mutual operation? If you answered yes to gained national attention as the first both questions, you'll be hearing insurance company to package a from Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance wide variety of farm insurance op- Company of Michigan over the next tions into one policy, a Farmowners year. With the support of your insurance policy. This spirit of in- In November Michigan Farm Bureau Board of novation and commitment to the Directors, FB Mutual is reasserting its Michigan farmer has made FB grassroots strength as Michigan's Mutual Michigan's largest farm in- Ag Tourism largest farm insurer. The positive surer by far. results will benefit MFB members, Now, the insurance company has Michigan farmers and MFB. launched a new effort to enhance their special Farmowners product, to Farmers are searching for How It All Started deliver the type of service the farmer creative ways to diversify wants, and to provide the level of their income producing ac- The beginnings were humble. support necessary for a highly skilled tivities. This discussion topic Back in the late '40s, Michigan and knowledgeable sales force. FB will focus on some of the farmers felt they were paying too Mutual wants to continue increasing challenges and oportunities much for auto insurance options. In its share of the farm market- in the ag tourism industry. 1949, using shoe boxes as filing especially in larger, more complex cabinets, FB Mutual began serving operations. The greater the share of the auto insurance needs of the market, the better the product, Michigan farmers. and the more service the company It didn't take long for the com- can provide to MFB members. pany to add fire coverages, then ad- ditional lines protecting farmers (continued on next page) OCTOBER 1987. RURAL LIVING 19 Discussion Topic questions about Farmowners insur- This valuable pilot project could (continued fram previous page) ance, agent and home office service. well lead to product and pricing product satisfaction and pricing. changes by 1989. But, other changes have already occurred. The Research Provides Ideas Farmers Make Suggestions home office underwriting areas have enriched working relationships with The effort to Increase service to These focus group interviews agents. A Farmowners newsletter is Michigan farmers began In June of revealed that real opportunity existed being tested through the pilot agents last year It began at the beginning- for FB Mutual to increase its share with policyholders and non-policy- wtth research. As Gary Keefer, of the farmowners market. But it holders. This coming January, agents director of marketing research for the was also apparent that the company and clients alike will be surveyed to Farm Bureau Insurance Group ex- would have to earn the new busi- see how the publication can be im- plains, "We can't make effective pro- ness and the right to retain current proved. In 1986, a Special Investi- duct and service decisions from an business. The market place is com- gative Unit (SIU) was established as Ivory tower. Talking with customers, petitive, and just like the farmer's part of the property and casualty agents, and prospective customers way of life, you have to work for company's Claims Division. This provides the real life Information we what you get. unit has had tremendous success in need to expand our market share Michigan farmers made some identifying, directing and controlling and better serve the FB member." other strong points. Maroa Merando, fraudulent claims. Last June, the Marketing Division marketing research manager. iden- research team selected several focus tified these key points: "The most Success Has Positive Impact groups representing various areas of important relationship in the in- Michigan and different types of farm- surance business is between the The success of this resurgence in Ing operations. Some farmers were farmer and the farmer's agent. Ser- FB Mutual's Farmowners insurance Insured with FB Mutual, the rest vice and communication from the program has obvious positive im- were not. A professional interviewer home office is another important plications in the view of both your guided participants through a num- ingredient. If the farmer has confi- MFB Board of Directors, as well as ber of knowledge and awareness dence in his insurance agent and is the operating officers of Farm pleased with company service. that Bureau Insurance Group. MFB farmer is far less likely to leave membership represents the core of because of temporary pricing dif- the best and brightest farmers in ferences. The farmer also wants to Michigan. By working and learning be sure that his insurance company with them, FB Mutual will not only ~ .. , is saving money wisely wherever it provide special service to member- can. especially in fraud discovery ship, it will also help increase MFB -y~, ~ . and prevention. to attractiveness to non-members. As the insurance company increases its ff~?$1.9~.:! 17 fOf $3.95) Pilot Project Underway market share, it strengthens MFB, (16 fOf S7.95) and in the process, strengthens the All of this information formed the future of farming in Michigan. That's COLORADO next process in enhancing FB a win-win situation which presents a BLUE SPRUCE Mutual's Farmowners insurance pro. rare opportunity for increased suc- lh Ih.l' '!. r"M f\O;lI ~J un PUlt~ the be.luhlul gram: development of the Farm- cess and membership growth. 0 Cd: ld< B ~u t' (l)ICfJ punae~ II.lUCsP 1I't' SlrOOK notthern gJGWn wel rOllt:d bI"I1lo:h+~ (.l-~' old 10 Ib ) seedlings IhJlllle early in 1987 and will be completed Discussion Questions I " ""'l t'OWn )u~' lh.' "¥hl we lor lrllnsp/,ulhng before mid-1988. Gary Keefer ex- lt ( .. ,,' lor 'Ill!) llYn>' f oups 'NlndbfCJ~ or lIS II} C1'~dl.' "~I'l1t"'l~ &y now dnd h.1~e lhe lldded plains. "Before introducing sweeping As an extension of the continuing pi- l'Sl. rp 0' sh.lP'~ ym.,r lr~ lust the Woly JOU ",anI product changes or client services, research program, your comments, w" > ,0 ""l\ h l~m ,row o.dff tOOtl~ 'tilt M we felt it was absolutely necessary to ideas, concerns, and positive exper- pa.,1~" "11OC 100 'l.l1t:>1.:d IIN RETURh THE ~IP PING lABEl Ofly "lh" 0Ilt l~r 0 leetlp' 111 free establish a pilot project. We selected ience concerning Farmowners insur- ' 12 of our very best Farmowners r~pI ~ PITV'''' 0' lW dl.lY> '" P refund )OU'thot'e THE ance are very important. \'4ARRANJ) I~ \0'0 'I"I~ th .. Sh pp ~ l.1~ IS relurn sales and service agents with ex- • How many of you in your discus- ed cellent farm experience. They repre- sion group have had FB Mutual tOJS[ Of MSUY. NURSERY DIVISION sent various types of farming risks Farmowners Insurance? DEPT. 1158-52 from orchard to dairy. We are cur- .If you are a FB Mutual policy- 2200 £1st Oak~ AlI04It rently working with agents. clients holder, what are the positive B~.lIltnotS61701 P\use send me N620i 8tllt Spfuce. and prospective clients to clearly aspects of your relationship with IIhnQIS ResIdents ,dd 6' 1'9 S4les Tal identify how we can enhance our your agent and FB Mutual? NAME Farmowners product. increase our • From your point of view. where do AOO~ESS service. better support our agents you see opportunities for improve- CITY and communicate more effectively." ment - either by the agent or by STATE liP the company? 20 RURAL LIVING. OCTOBER 1987 Legislative Review study of this complex issue and is - Creation of an Economic Develop- (cont'inued from page 7) expected to have a report by late ment Fund ($75 million) from trans- September or early October. portation fund, auto-related sales tax Their proposal recommends major The key points in that proposal and certain federal monies. restructuring of both the taxation and are expected to include: Twenty-five percent of the fund distribution systems which support -Cut school operating property taxes would go to counties with less than the K-12 public school system. It nearly 40 percent ($1.3 billion). 400,000 population for economic would be presented to the voters at - Replace with 2 percent sales and development for certain types of the November 1988 general elec- use tax increase. industry. tion. The proposal includes: - Cut the present 50 mill constitu- Rural primary road projects would -Terminate all K-12 school opera- tional limit on all property taxes to receive about 10 percent average in- tions property tax millage (but not 38 mills. crease from the fund. debt). Includes both voter-approved -limit school operating taxes to 18 - Local options would permit various and allocated. mills on residential and agricultural local fees, including vehicle registra- - Replace with an "8 + 8" property property. Allow increase up to four tion and drivers license fees. tax (total 16 mills). Eight mills would mills by vote. - A new snow formula (based on a be collected and retained locally for -Statewide uniform 23 mill property 14-year revenue study) and a rail- school operations. Another eight tax on all industrial, commercial and road crossing upgrading program are mills would be collected locally and utility property. This proposal, like included. transmitted to a new State Account most others, would require voter ap- For Education (SAFE) trust fund. proval. Other provisions include quality education programs, creation Field Sanitation Stan- Present State Aid Fund revenues • of an Education Trust Fund and dards - On Sept. 8, the would also be placed in SAFE (sales numerous other details. Michigan Occupational Health Stan- taxes, lottery and others). dards Commission approved field -School districts would receive basic sanitation standards that will now be grants of $2,750 per pupil from the Transportation - A se- sent for legislative approval. SAFE trust fund which would • cond major issue for the fall Comments were received from the replace the present school aid fund. session is on funding for state and public at a hearing on July 7, when - Property tax for school operation local roads and other forms of 125 farmers. growers, and agricul- would be cut $1.77 billion. transportation. tural representatives urged the com- -Increase the present sales and use The expiration date on transporta- mission to adopt the federal stan- tax from the present 4 percent to 6 tion legislation has been delayed four dards instead of the more restrictive percent to replace the lost revenue. times. Several studies have been rules they were considering. - Permit voters in a school district to made, one by the Infrastructure Task For the most part, the commission approve up to four mills more for Force made up of various interests did not deviate from their proposed local school enrichment. including agriculture, represented by rules, and made only a few conces- -Instead of the extra millage, voters MFB. Another study for the Legis- sions to agriculture's interests. could approve up to 0.5 percent of lature was conducted by a consulting Organized labor, state agencies personal income tax to be collected firm and a spedal joint House-Senate (i.e., the departments of social ser- by the state and returned to the legislative committee. These studies, vices and civil rights), and migrant district. and others, are in addition to the advocate groups strongly recom- - Establish a uniform system of state ongoing road needs studies reported mended the rules apply to every aid to all districts to put an end to every four years. employee. FB's position supported the "in formula" and "out-of-formula" The legislative package of highway the new federal standard which only issue. bills presently includes: requires compliance by employers of - Make payments from the General - No change in the present funding 11 or more employees. The federal Fund for teacher retirement Social formula (state 39.1 percent, counties rule was designed to apply to most Security, and categorical aid which 39.1 percent, cities and villages 21. 8 growers who use a large amount of funds special school services. percent, these are percentages of the labor and eliminates the need for The present average of property fund after 10 percent is taken for many exceptions because of unusual tax for school operation is 32 mills comprehensive transportation). circumstances among the smaller (highest is 45 mills, others are much - A revenue increase for the trans- farm operators. less) . portation fund ($9.7 million). This Provisions for sanitary facilities As with any of the proposals, results from increasing fees on have always been made to farm there are many details to be con- driver's licenses (double), commercial laborers, either by utilizing facilities sidered and many questions to be registration fees, trailer and snow- provided for this purpose, the asked. mobile fees, and $25 for all truck farmer's home facilities, or providing The School Finance Commission diesel stickers. transportation to the sanitary facili- which has been working since last ' ties. There are also facilities provided February, has made a complete in the migrant labor camps. (continued on page 22) OCTOBER 1987. RURAL LIVING 21 Legislative Review inch pies, so the huge proportions of College. Paul Jacobs, one of the (continued from previous page) the record breaking pie presented coordinators, proclaimed the day some special challenges. "an overwhelming success, primarily However, these new rules apply Foremost among the challenges because of the great cooperation of to the broader range of agricultural was constructing an oven large all of the contributing organizations. labor and does not just apply to enough to house the pie and pro- Their time, money, equipment, and migrant labor. ducing enough heat to bake it. The efforts were appreciated as they The commission did make changes Jacklin Steel Supply Company of made this a super event for the to bring some provisions into com- Traverse City helped fabricate and cherry industry." pliance with the federal standards. assemble the oven, which was 24 Employees of livestock operations feet in diameter and six feet high. were exempted. Other changes Design for the two burners which We effectively pro- regarding the quantity and tempera- fueled the oven was contributed by ture of available drinking water were the Joe M. Day Company of claimed that there 'is made by adopting the less stringent Saginaw. Burner capacity was a federal language. whopping 3 million BTU's per hour. an ample supply of In addition to applying the new Chef Pierre's engineers were also rules to include every farm employer charged with obtaining a pie pan Michigan cherries regardless of the number of employ- which would fit and support the ees, the commission also kept such thousands of pounds of dough and readily available." stipulations as requiring employers to cherry filling. Jacklin Steel and Nor- post mandatory information about thern Steel Specialties responded to the standards in Spanish and/or the the challenge by donating the MCC Chairperson Don Gregory employees' native language. This material and resources for construc- added, "The event was picked up by rule affects all employers engaged in ting the stainless steel pie pan. news media on state, national and the production of food, fiber or At 6 a.m., July 25, Chef Pierre international levels, including England, other agricultural products such as employees were already at work France and Japan, making this the seed, seedlings, plants, or parts of lining the pie pan with dough in most widely recognized promotion plants. preparation for the nearly 14 tons of by the Michigan Cherry Committee FB will continue to oppose these cherry pie filling. The top crust, ap- ever. We effectively proclaimed that more restrictive Michigan rules as plied in 15 inch strips, was in place there is an ample supply of Michigan they now move into the legislative around 10 a.m. The finishing touch cherries readily available." arena. 0 by Chef Pierre workers was to spray Other business contributors included: an 25 % egg wash over the crust to Actron Steel, Atlas Trucking and promote browning. A crane operator Leasing, Bay State Milling, C&H Lansing legislative topics are from Elmer's Crane and Dozer of Maintenance, Concrete Services, reviewed by Robert E. Smith, MFB Traverse City took over to carefully CTM Associates, Fabri-Cal, Grand senior legislative counsel. lift the top off the oven, set the pie Traverse Construction Company, into the oven, and replace the top. Holcomb Masonry, Michigan Sugar, At 10:15 a.m., the bakers set Nottke Trucking, Peninsula Asphalt, World's Largest their watches for the two hour bak- Sawyer Fruits, Traverse City Record- ing time. Meanwhile, local talent Eagle, Traverse Outdoor Maintenance, Cherry Pie entertained the huge crowd. and Weyerhauser Corporation. (continued from page 13) At 12:30 p.m., the crane hoisted ''It was an extraordinary success," the pie from the oven. The official concludes McCallum. "I'm looking "The purpose of this project," cutting of the pie took place at 1 forward to the next issue of the MCC Promotion Manager Chuck p. m. Participating in the ceremony Guinness Book of World Records to McCallum explained "was to break were Paul Kindinger, director of the see Michigan's new pie record." 0 the existing record set in Charlevoix Michigan Department of Agriculture; in 1976 and broadly communicate Donald Gregory, MCC chairperson; Phil Calvert is assistant promo- the fact that we have a strong sup- Dave Grey, president of Chef Pierre; tion manager for the Michigan ply of cherries, both now and in the and Cindy Pleva, National Cherry Cherry Committee. foreseeable future." Queen. Chef Pierre provided the technical Chef Pierre set up a serving line. expertise in preparing the pie dough Over 75,000 four-ounce servings and filling. Rod Wells, director of were given to the visitors and guests engineering, and Jack Ohlie, vice throughout the day. By 9:30 p.m. president of engineering for Chef the pie was completely consumed. Pierre, began planning the technical Local festivities and entertainment aspects back in April. According to were coordinated by representatives Wells, the commercial piemaker's from the Center for Business and In- experience is in baking eight and ten dustry of Northwestern Michigan 22 RURAL LIVING, OCTOBER 1987 Fartll Bureau Market Place CLASSIFIED AD POLICY HAY LISTING MISCELLANEOUS MISCELLANEOUS HILLSDALE HAY, INC.: Brian Hasty. Sales ATTORNEY: Farm born and raised. Engaged WILLIAM B. MC EWEN - RYE. BALBOA. Manager. 106 S. County Line Road, Tekon- in General Practice at Law. Experienced in 326 South Durand Road. Corunna. Mich. Farm Bureau mem- sha, Mich. 49092; home phone 517-765-2099. litchfield sales phone 517 -542-3438 most areas of law and can bring needed exper- tise to most problems. Particular emphasis on Phone 517-743-3847. (1O-14b) estates and planning. financial problems. torts. bers pay 25 cents (Wednesdays only). All hay NIR tested. (12-tfn) land and bankruptcy. Particular knowledge of FOR HOMEMAKERS agriculture. Available statewide. Call or write per word for all HOWELLLIVESTOCKAUCTION: Billor Larry Thomas J. Budzynski, 25550 North River Sheridan. P.O. Box 157, Howell, Mich. Road. Mt. Clemens. MI. Phone 313-463-5253. PECANS: Quart each halves. pieces, meal. classified ads. 48843: office phone 517-548-3300. (12-tfn) (4-7t-57p) Three-quart sampler. $9.95. Canecreek Farm. Cookeville. TN 38502-2727. (4-7t-15p-ts) WRITE YOUR OWN WILL: It's legal. Save • All other advertisers pay money. 4-Forms fillout. $3.50 prepaid. Fast GUARDIAN SERVICE LIDS AND PANS! 50 cents per word for one inser- LIVESTOCK service. Pick's. Dept. RL. Tompkinsville. KY Pyrex. Corning. pressure cooker parts. Box 42167. (7/8.6t.19p-ts) 3392CF, Orange. CA 92665. (9-4t-15p-ts) tion and 45 cents per word for REGISTERED ANGUS BREEDING STOCK: two or more consecutive inser- For sale at all times. Bordner Angus Farms. LIVEFISH FORSTOCKING PONDS. Also sup. tions of the same ad. 68730 County Farm Road. Sturgis. MI49091. plies. feed. windmills. aerators. Stoney Creek Phone 616-651-8353. (4-12t-20p) Trout Farm. Grant. MI 49327. Phone 616- REAL ESTATE 834-7720. (6-6t-18p) • All advertisements are subject to DISPERSAL:REGISTEREDSIMMENTAL. Bred a IS-word minimum charge, in- BED & BREAKFASTAT LUDINGTON: Begin. CONDO AT NEW SMYRNA BEACH. FLA.. cows. with calf or without. Open yearling cluding member ads. heifers. Robert Bowler. Germfask. Mich. big breakfast: beachcomb. birding. photograph, FOR SALE OR RENT. Completely furnished. 49836. Phone 906-586-6121. (7/8-3t.20p) antique: end. hot tub. Phone 616-843-9768. two bedrooms. two baths. ocean view from the (1O-16p) fourth floor. Tastefully decorated. Phone • Please indicate if you are a Farm CLUB CALF SALE: Featuring quality steer and 517-669.8252. (1O.21p) Bureau member. FOR SALE:Avon collection from 1971 to 1980. heifer calves from several breeds. Saturday. October 31. at 1:00 p,m .. Marlette Livestock Phone 517-875.3070. (l0-2t.8p) WHATIEY REALTY INC.: Farms-Homes. • The deadline for ads is the first Auction. Marlette. Mich. Phone 517.635.2183 Commercial. 4571 West US 223. Adrian. MI Monday of the month preceding or 313-672-9681. (1O-27b) IRRIGATE MANURE WITH TRAVELING 49221. Phone 517-263-7855 or 517-423. GUN. Complete systems with new or used 7411. Auctioneer. Realtor. Vaughn Jo Lewis. publication. equipment. Plummer Supply. Inc.. Bradley. 3310 Paragon Road. Tipton. M149287. Phone MISCELLANEOUS Mich. 49311. Phone 1-800.632-7731. 517-431-2571. (4.6t-27p) • All ads must be pre-paid and (10.3t-18p) may be pre-paid up to one year FOR SALE: RESTAURANT WITH LARGE" FOR SALE: 1.000 solid core exterior doors. FOR SALE: Old issues of Michigan Farmer back BEDROOt>1HOME. Sanilac County. Extra lot. in advance. 1-3/4 x 36" x 80" to 84". 10 for $100. Jerry to 1927. Other old farm magazines. Fair Growing business. Owners retiring. Call even- Flynn, 1106 E. Carleton Road. Adrian. Phone Premium Books. Hoard's Dairyman 1927. ings - Miss Holly 313-798.8359. (6.6t-17p) .It is the responsibility of the 517-263-4972. (l0.4t-20p) Sheep Breeder 1928. Swine 1922. USDA Year advertiser to re-insert the ad on Books 1921 and up. Paul Salmon. 718 Hard- FOR SALE: Ranch style two bedroom home FOR SALE: Bushel baskets. Like new - 500 ing Street. Plymouth. Mich. 48170. (lO-34p) with attached garage. Cut stone fireplace. a month-by-month or year-by- dozen at $5.00 per dozen. Phone 616-669- Beautiful Budd Lake across the street. Within year basis. 9226. (9-2t-15p) TOBACCO!! Do you chew? Smoke pipe? walking distance of business district. A great Bargain offers. Save money. Write today! year around sports area. Price - $37.900. • The publisher has the right to FOR SALE: BAG SAWDUST AND WOOD STOKERS. Dresden. Tenn. 38225. (l0-15p) Elden Smith. 510 South Lake Street. Harrison. reject any advertising copy SHAVINGS for nursery or livestock bedding. Mich. 48625. Phone 517-539-2502. (1O-44p) $1.50 per bag. Phone 313-724-0326. Delivery COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS. GRANTS. submitted. available. (5.6t-16p) LOANS AVAILABLE! Guarantee all high school students and graduates. college • No ads will be taken over the ATTENTION FARM CREDIT SYSTEM freshman. sophomore will qualify! Send $3.00 STOCKHOLDERS: You'll soon receive a ballot (REFUNDABLE) for brochure. instructions. DOGS phone. to vote for the at-large position on the St. Paul questionnaire. Nationwide Scholarship Finders. Farm Credit District Board. I'd appreciate your Box 2257. Lynchburg. Va. 24501-0257. SHETLAND SHEEPDOGS: (mini-collie) AKC MAIL YOUR AD support. I offer these qualifications: 1) Long- (9-2t-31p-ts) registered. Wonderful as pets or on the farm. WITH PAYMENT TO: time borrower from the system: 2) Over 20 St. Johns, Mich. Lisa Betz 517-224-4029 or years experience in local. state and district Farm OLD TIME HDD[E MUSIC - Twelve Alice Hicks 517-224-4515. (9-2t-25p) Rural Living Credit System; 3) Willing to make sound deci. Michigan Fiddlers or Twelve Canadian Fiddlers sions for the long term good of our on a sixty minute cassette $4.50 each. For listof P.O. Box 30960 stockholders: and 4) Only Michigan candidate other Fiddlers. send long S.A.S.E. to Fiddle Lansing, Mich. 48909 for the at-large position. R. Lee Ormston. Music. Kinde. Mich. 48445. (l0-2t-31p) Meadow Gold Farm. St. Johns. Mich. (1O.81b) OCTOBER 1987. RURAL LIVING 23 OUR NUMBER ONE GOAL IS EXCELLENT SERVICE ••• THANK YOU FOR LETTING US KNOW WE ARE SUCCEEDING Dear Farm B ureau, Farm Bureau, This is Dear "d that one for such to thank speed you It is 0f ten sa~ h "r "'Iet e~ OUr claim I Y service come • t was on how effec~~ hen they t Out of th a shock t discOvers coverage ~s w ime or are o find m e grocer 0 insurance "ctim of a cr I waS great Y Car damao dY store servi oe. y shock Ce reall OUr ~eco~~e~ :~ a~ ac~i:e~~~aking b ' and mad Y eased th ~nVO t vict~m 0 Bureau reeze t e repair e o take S a a recen" My Farm bad care of. d enter~ng. de a very Sincerely, an agent ma She staY- Insur~ncee tolerable., h me and xper~enc tact w~t James a e d "n close con f my claim. Richmon~d ~~net c. e ~ breast 0 t your , ~chigan kept me ,a to know tha "n It is n~ce'll believes ~ st~ compan Y 1 touch. the persona SincerelY, rm Bureau, Dear F a DaV~"d H ." higan like the Holly, t