New Look, An Old Tradition July/August '88 -------. As sure as Medicare pays only part of the bills... : .. ~ I liE When you pass 65, you still need health care insurance. There's Medicare, it's true. But Medicare has holes for your savings to run through. That's where we can help, with the extra coverage you need at the down-to-earth membership rates you can afford. As a Michigan Farm Bureau member, eligible for Medicare, you have a choice of Blue Cross Blue Shield complementary coverage to supplement Medicare benefits: a comprehensive plan, an econo plan or an HMO plan°, starting as low as $18.13 a month. Whichever plan you choose, we'll be with you to take care of your health care insurance at down-to-earth membership rates, the same way we've been doing for the last forty years. For your nearest Farm Bureau office call 1 (800) 292-2680 extension 3239/3240 °available in most counties TO KEEP YOUR INDEPENDENCE COOL VOL.65 No.7 July-August 1988 t OFF with ~~~!~~ About the Cover Michigan Farm Bureau's new stylized Frozen Fruit logo symbol will soon appear on business correspondence, specialty clothing, and and Other signage. The American Farm Bureau Federation and many state Farm Bureaus New Treats nationwide adopted the logo this year. IT'S TIME FOR The MACMA Frozen Food In This Issue Express Sale Seminar Students Hold Conservative Views Students attending the 25th anniversary Young People's Citizenship Seminar, June 20-24, exnibited conservative See Page 11 6 views on education, drug testing, driving laws, and penal- ties for drunk driving. CONTACT YOUR Conference Calling Keeps Drought Informa- COUNTY FARM tion Line Open Conference calls involving 22 county BUREAU FURTHER FOR DETAILS 9 Farm Bureau presidents is keeping MFB leadership in Lansing informed about local conditions as agriculture at- tempts to cope with the 1988 drought. Committee Calls 92 Candidates "Friends of ORDER DEADLINE Agriculture" MFB AgriPac spokesperson Dave Conklin WEDNESDAY 12 announced the political action committee's primary election endorsements July 15. AUGUST 24 Columns President's Message 4 Grassroots Perspective 20 Legislative Review 5 Farm Bureau Market Place 23 Agrinomic Update 19 Advertisers' Index 23 Rural Living is Published Monthly: on the first day, by the Michigan Farm Bureau Infor- mation and Public Relations Division, except during July and August when a combined Issue is published on July 15. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Mich. 48917, Post Office Box 30960 (zip 48909); phone 517-323-7000, extension 6585. Subscriptions: $1.50 per year to members, Included In annual dues. $3.00 per year non-members In Michigan, $5.00 per year non-members out of state. Publication No. 345040. Established Jan. 13, 1923 as MIchigan Farm News, name changed to MichIgan Farm News Rural Living Dec. 1. 1981. Third-class postage paid at Lansing, Michigan, and at additional mailing offices. Editorial: Connie Turbin, Editor and Business Manager; Donna Wilber, Contributing Editor; Kimberly Marshell, Associate Editor and Production Manager. 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; Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. Directors: District I, Marlin Outman, Constantine; Dlstrlct 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; Distrlct 3, Diane Horning, Manchester; District 4, Charleen Thompson, Freeport; Distrlct 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Dlstrlct 7, Larry Snider, Hart; District 8, Lyle LeCronler, Freeland; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-large: David Conklin, Corunna; Wayne Wood, Marlette; Richard Leach, Saginaw. Promotion and Education: Janis Sanford. Parma. Young Farmers: Ed Cagney. Scotts. JULY-AUGUST 1988, RURAL LIVING 3 President's Message New Spirit of Unity and I~ Cooperation Apparent Summerfest '88, held on July 20 at the Farm Bureau Center in Lansing, brought together hundreds of Farm Bureau members from across the state for an afternoon offun and fellowship. It was an opportunity for us to for- get the drought for a few hours and enjoy some good times, good food and, good Farm Bureau friends. (Watch for photo coverage of Summerfest '88 in the September issue of the new Rural Leader newsletter.) An event like Summerfest '88 and the implementation of the new logo for our family of companies (see article on page 16) indicate a new spirit in our organization ...a spirit of unity and cooperation that will benefit Farm Bureau and all of agriculture. This attitude is especially important as we draw together to meet the challenge of the worst drought in this cen- tury. Politicians will be tempted in this election year to develop short term solutions to the drought that could hurt agriculture in the long run. At a meeting July 1 with Governor Blanchard, Sen. Don Riegle, Rep. Bill Schuette, Rep. Bob Traxler and other agricultural leaders, I communi- cated the message of our county presidents that we need to focus assis- Seeds tance specifically at the problem of the drought ...and not develop respon- ses that spill over to affect current farm policy . • MFB President Jack Laurie At the time of this meeting we had already had two statewide conference joined other state, federal, and calls with county Farm Bureau presidents to assess the impact of the agricultural leaders in Frankenmuth, July 1, for an drought in various parts of the state. This information, direct from the emergency drought meeting. farmers involved, gave our organization added credibility on this issue. • Laurie addressed the July 7 (See article on page 9.) reporting meeting of the MFB It's no exaggeration to say that the drought is very serious. There are State Study Committee which farmers who are going to be really hurt, and Farm Bureau is working to is charged with looking at or- make sure they are the focus of a carefully targeted package of assistance. ganization growth and needs As detailed in this issue of Rural Living, Farm Bureau has presented for the future. Gov. Blanchard with a specific 10 point plan of drought relief measures. .President Laurie welcomed We have also cooperated with Michigan State University on a service to representatives of Michigan help farmers locate hay for their livestock. We assisted MSU and the commodity organizations to FB Cooperative Extension Service in publishing and distributing (through Center, July 8, to discuss county Farm Bureau offices) a special publication that advises farmers on cooperative strategies to assist how to cope with the drought. drought stricken farmers. We will continue to suggest appropriate legislative and regulatory • President Laurie was among responses to the drought as the impact of this disaster becomes more ap- the guests atAg Expo's annual parent. But it's important to also emphasize that we must not develop VIP Breakfast, July 19. During Expo week, President Laurie short term solutions that wreck what we've worked so hard to develop, also welcomed FB members moving agriculture toward a more market oriented system from around the state to the That's a thought to keep in mind as we pull together to develop policy for second annual Summerfest on 1989, and as we cooperate to overcome this latest challenge from Mother the FB Center grounds, July Nature. 20 . • Sanilac County was among the first to conduct a 1988 Probable Issues Meeting in preparation for FB policy development. Jack Laurie, President President Laurie attended the Michigan Farm Bureau meeting and discussion session on July 25. 4 RURAL LIVlNG, JULY-AUGUST 1988 Legislative Review Drought Assistance Legislation Introduced bill which includes a provision to Anhydrous Ammonia Re- Washington repeal the excise tax on diesel fuel classification: The House Ap- used in off-highway vehicles. propriations Committee rec- Congress is looking at measures ommended against the reclas- Drought Disaster Assis- to help drought stricken farmers, sification of anhydrous ammonia tance: Michigan Congressmen which makes repeal of the tax as a poisonous gas. The commit- Traxler, Pursell, and Schuette, more certain. If Congress acts on tee included the recommendation and Senators Levin and Riegle the technical corrections to retain the current classifica- have introduced drought assis- bill, the diesel tax repeal will tion in its report on the Depart- tance legislation patterned after definitely be a part of it. Unfor- ment of Transportation funding the flood disaster assistance tunately there is very little time bill. legislation of1986. As in the 1986 left for Congress to take action. legislation, eligible producers of Meanwhile farmers and other Lansing program and non-program crops non-highway diesel fuel users will be those who experience who have paid more than $1,000 more than a 50% yield loss per in taxes (6,667 gallons of diesel PA 116 Tax Refunds: Legis- crop. The bills, H.R. 4896 and S. purchased) during the first lation to assure farmers the right 2555, provide emergency assis- quarter of the tax year are to carry forward losses on their tance including FmHA debt eligible for a refund. The claim P.A. 116 tax refunds has finally restruc- turing; payment in must be filed within 90 days fol- passed. Farm Bureau pro- Payment-in-Kind (PIK) certifi- lowing the end of the quarter. If moted and strongly supported cates, not to exceed $100,000 in the refund claim is late, an im- this legislation. value per individual, for crops mediate refund will not be made The problem was created by a which cannot be harvested or and the individual must file a multi-provision bill passed at the which could not be planted due to claim for credit against his last minute Dec. 27, 1988, and ef- drought conditions. year-ending income taxes. fective Jan. 1, 1988. It prohibited IRS form 843 should be used for the IIcarry backs or carry for- For drought information ll claiming a direct refund. IRS wards offarm net losses. The tax form 4136 must accompany the forms did not reflect this change updates, call the Michigan and farmers received only a frac- individual's income tax return for Department of Agriculture a tax credit. tion of their expected P.A. 116 tax tollfree number Country of Origin Labeling: refund. Starting in June 1989, processors FB called this serious situation 1-800-346-FARM. The must begin country of origin to the attention of legislators in U.S. Department of labeling of fruit juices. Under the both houses. Sen. Shinkle, R- Agriculture hotline number rule, processors may use Lambertville, and seven other the IImajor supplier ll marking legislators introduced S. 785 to is 1-800-541-3375. Use the method, which means if a proces- amend the legislation. It passed American Farm Bureau sor obtains 75% or more of its im- the Senate and went to the Federation Capital Hotline ported concentrate from a single House. source country, only that Rep. Niederstadt, D-Saginaw, for daily updates on country must be shown on the and 40 cosponsors introduced legislation and regulatory label. Otherwise, all foreign sour- H.B. 5585. It passed the House ces must be listed. and was sent to the Senate. issues. Call 202-554- S. 785 was released by the In addition, because of public 0510; available 24 hours a health concerns regarding pes- House and the Senate will release day, seven days a week. ticides which are banned in the other bills in a similar situation. United States, but used on The final version of S. 785 is bet- foreign fruit, a proposed rule is ter than either of the two pre- Diesel Fuel Excise Tax: The under consideration that will re- vious bills. House Ways and Means Commit- quire all fruit juices made from All bills were retroactive. This tee adjourned for the July 4th foreign concentrate be labeled to means farmers that had the carry recess before completing mark up indicate all actual sources. forward loss problem can expect of the technical corrections tax (continued on page 21) JULY-AUGUST 1988, RURAL LNING 5 Seminar Students Hold Conservative Views By Kimberly Marshell money should be distributed. I believe that's equal school fund- here was a conservative ing, said Scott. T II group of over 220 students "I believe our teachers should be at the 1988 Young People's required to take competency Citizenship Seminar, June 20-24, tests, he said. 'We don't want II at Olivet College. The group somebody who doesn't know passed a ballot proposal requiring what they are talking about drug testing for all state govern- teaching us what we're supposed ment employees by 89%, and 71% to be learning. We have a future said no to a proposed moratorium and we want to be able to do it on the further building of nuclear properly and in the best way we power plants. can, so we need good teachers. II And, since it is an election year Scott also supported the ballot for the nation's highest office, proposal requiring drug testing students cast a straw vote, select- of state government employees. ing Bush over Dukakis, 60% to "If elected, I would proudly be 40%. the first one to step in line to take As candidates made their cam- the test to make sure that I don't John Ryder, Sagniaw County, makes paign speeches, it also became the campaign speech which helped have drugs in my system, be- eviden t that today's young people him win election to the position of state cause I am drug-free. II are deeply concerned about such representative. Shannon Hunt, Huron County, serious social issues as: stiffer tied for the position of prosecut- drunk driving laws/penalties, Scott said Michigan's citizens ing attorney with Bill Mitchell, AIDS education, school reform need caring people to represent Mecosta County. And, like in the and finance, and teacher com- them in the Legislature. real world of politics, the winner petency testing. "I care about quality education. was determined by the toss of the Scott Manning, Montcalm My stand in Lansing would be to coin -- with Bill coming up as the County, was eventually elected get equal funding for every school winner. to the position of state senator. system. For every student in In her campaign speech, Shan- During his campaign speech, every school, an equal amount of non called for stiffer drunk driv- ing laws and an effort to stop repeat offenders. "During the time that we have spent here at Young People's Citizenship Seminar, 830 al- cohol-related deaths have taken place. Something needs to be done, we're wasting lives, young lives," Shannon said. "If we are the leaders of tomorrow , what we need to do is make sure we sur- vive until tomorrow. II During his campaign speech, Scott Piggott, Clinton County, said nuclear arms were wrong and that there should be disar- mament. But, he opposed the bal- lot proposal calling for a moratorium on the building of nuclear power plants. "Nuclear power is the thing of the future. Rather than put it away, I would rather see it ad- Political party rallies helped develop party unity and were a popular part of the seminar program vance and have certain, set limits 6 RURAL LIVING, JULY-AUGUST 1988 on it so it would be safer," said Scott, who was later elected to a position on the state Supreme America & Me Essay Winner Selected Court. Every year, Dr. John Furbay, is he America & Me Essay Contest was founded by Farm Bureau In- one of the most popular speakers at the seminar. He is an interna- tionally-known lecturer, author, T surance Group in 1968 to encourage Michigan youth to explore their roles in America's future. The 1987-88 top ten winners competed against more than 6,000 other students from nearly 500 Michigan junior and radio personality and has be- high and middle schools to win their top positions. The student essays for come one of America's most this, the 19th annual, contest were based on the topic "What The Future Of dYnamic and inspirational inter- America Holds For Me." The final ranking of the top ten winners was deter- preters of our changing world. mined by a panel of judges, including: Gov. James Blanchard, Lt. Gov. Mar- Furbay had these words to say to tha Griffiths, U.S. Rep. Bob Carr, and Lansing-area broadcast personality the young people to encourage Howard Lancour. them to keep trying to achieve The top ten winners from this contest are (in consecutive winning success: order): Kevin Bai, Grosse Pointe Woods; Jon Ziegler, Monroe; Lisa "To be successful, to feel suc- Nocerini, Crystal Falls; Tran Trinh, Parchment; Timothy Godek, cessful, you need to commit your- Frankenmuth; Tim Sznewajs, East Lansing; Gretchen Hoffmeyer, selfbeyond what you can already Grosse Pointe Woods; Emily Malcoun, Grosse Pointe Woods; Christy see. Reach for what you think is Petroff, Detroit; and Jennifer Kotwicki, Sterling Heights. unreachable. Never give up," Winning essay by Kevin Bai: Furbay said. "Don't run away When I was five years old, my nursery school visited our local zoo's from a challenge, or you'll be more aviary, where I saw my first bald eagle. It was a young bird with a hint scared to try the next time a chal- of white feathers beginning to replace the dark ones on its head. It had lenge comes up." broken its wing and was brought to the zoo for rehabilitation. The zoo offered it protection until its wing healed, when it would be reintroduced Election Results: into the wilds of northern Michigan. The zoo-keepers were teaching it • State Sen. Scott Manning, to hunt for food, a skill it would need to survive. Montcalm County Returning to the zoo several months later, I was amazed to see a fully • State Rep. John Ryder, white-headed, majestic bird. Its manner was confident and proud, and Saginaw it appeared eager to be set free to face the challenge of life on its own. • State Supreme Court Justices I marvelled at this, our national bird. For several weeks, I pretended to Karen Wahl, Muskegon and be that bald eagle, at first mimicking its behavior by flapping one arm Scott Piggott, Clinton. and later spreading both out wide, attempting to soar on make-believe • Sheriff Randy Nixon, Chippewa air currents far above the earth. • Prosecuting Attorney Bill Looking back, I realize now that we, the youth of America, resemble Mitchell, Mecosta that bald eagle. Immature, we have first been protected and then care- • Treasurer Penny Nichols, Tus- fully prepared to take our place in America's future. As adolescents on cola the threshold of adulthood, we are confident and eager to step out, un- • County Clerk Donna Rottier, afraid, into the world and test our own ability. Like the eagle, we wel- Newaygo come the challenge of responsibility and self-reliance. • Drain Commissioner Michael We are proud to be Americans and realize how fortunate we are to be "David" Clark, Allegan born here. Our forefathers have built and preserved for us a land based • Register of Deeds Angie Bahs, on liberty, justice, and equality. Although we are all different, we are Barry fre~ to pursue our goals with the knowledge that we possess a solid foun- • Party Chairpersons Denise dation. There is nothing that we, the youth of America, cannot ac- Kutchey, St. Clair and Timeen complish through hard work and determination. America's future rests Wegmeyer, Alpena on our shoulders. • Precinct Delegates: Dennis America is a caring land that helps the handicapped and under- Anderson, Mecosta; Shelley Ar- privileged. Like the zoo-keeper who rehabilitated the young eagle, mour, Wexford; Lori Cook, Cal- America offers protection, assistance, and training to help all people houn; Raegan Fisher, Mus- reach their potential. Just as the eagle was taught survival skills, so too kegon; Madora Garn, Eaton; can the handicapped or culturally disadvantaged be trained to lead Carla Little, Clare; Amy Mar- productive lives. sico, Alpena; Annette Mauricio, This is where I can contribute to America's future. When I grow up, I Lapeer; Dan Peterson, Cal- would like to be a physical therapist, working with handicapped houn; Michael Pickett, Iosco; children. Many children are born with disabilities or receive injuries in Aron Rados, Midland; Kami sports or automobile accidents. These children deserve a place in Rathje, Huron; Jenny Smith, America's future, too. My contribution to America's future would be to Tuscola; J erremy Strouse, help them get it. At four, I pretended to be a bald eagle. Today, I want Isabella; Shannon Tucker, St. to help handicapped, rehabilitating and establishing them as success- Joseph; Catherine Wright, Clin- ful, contributing Americans who can soar like eagles. ton JULY-AUGUST 1988, RURAL LIVING 7 The 1988 Discussion Meet Contest is About to Set Sail! All Aboard! If you're between the ages of 18 to 30, a regular member and you can talk ... you should be a part of the Young Farmer Discussion Meet Contest. This year's state winner will receive a cruise for 2 aboard the world famous Pacific Princess. Compliments of: Farm Bureau Travel 1988 Discussion Meet Topics • Who will set the agenda for the 1990 farm bill? How can Farm Bureau have a major impact on the farm bill debate? What aspects of the farm bill should Farm Bureau work to develop? • Social Security - friend or foe? • What is the potential for the development of new products made from agricultural com- modities; and is there a market available for them? • How will increasing regulation of agricultural chemical use affect production agriculture? What are the implications for the interna- tional competitiveness of U.S. farmers? To find out when your district contest is, contact your county Farm Bureau. County FB Presidents Describe Local Drought Conditions By Connie Turbin na telephone conference call from the Lansing office of Michigan Farm I Bureau President Jack Laurie, 22 county FE presidents reported the June 30 conditions in their local area. The conference was a follow-up to a June 13 call to the county leaders to obtain information on the drought severity and receive farmers' recommendations for MFB action. The following are ex- cerpts from the county presidents reports: Branch -- Had rain. Situation not desperate but seeing signs of stress. Stick with Great Lakes Basin policy. Work on deficiency payment. Farmers need current information on water rights. Monroe -- Situation is critical. Corn beyond saving: 70% very poor, 30% poor. Water issue is gaining impetus. Hay listing service is a help. Cost of stra w shooting up. Genesee -- Situation desperate. Some wells are dry. Still trying to save blueberries; cherries are shot. Trees are not budding properly which means about a quarter crop next year. Livestock people are thankful for hay listing. Farmers need direct assistance, loans won't help after three years of disaster. Debt management problem is critical. Chippewa -- One inch rain since last conference call (June 13). Area needs feed grain; got about a half crop of hay. Oats and barley haven't got- ten out of the ground. Oceana -- Irrigators are having a hard time keeping up with evapora- tion. N on-irrigated pickle and carrot crops are doing nothing. Young fruit trees very stressed. Growers are watering 4-5 year old tress. Christmas trees damaged by late freeze don't have the moisture to combat this stress. Eaton -- Corn rolling bad and firing up in the sandy spots. Little hay growing for second cutting. Navy beans are not in; farmers waiting for some rain. Drought really taking its toll now. St. Joseph -- Corn is thigh high and rolled tight until nightfall. No idea ifrain would help. Soybeans yellow and wilting; stopped growing. Getting 25-30 bales to acre of good quality hay, but yield varies relative to when first cutting was made. Wheat is yielding 40 bu/acre and 59-60 bu/acre in low places. Quantity and quality are better than expected. Forage and feed is really critical. Bay -- Some measurable rain 3/4" to 1" in north part of county. Seventy to 80% of beans planted. Planting methods are real inventive -- some fields look more like potato fields. Beans are yellow and wilting. Waist high corn is doing best. Some dairy people are cutting oats as green chop. lO-Point Plan Offered "The key word at this stage is alternatives:' Laurie told the FB presi- dents. "Whether we're talking about feeding livestock, irrigating, debt management, or market commitments, the full gamut of activities will be affected by these weeks of drought. "That's why we have cooperated with MSU to produce and distribute a special drought information publication, and why we are aggressively supporting legjslative responses to the drought situation, both in Lans- ing and Washington," he said. Laurie told the county leaders that he would share their comments with the governor, state and Extension officials, and Michigan congressional JULY-AUGUST 1988, RURAL LIVING 9 representatives at a drought emergency meeting called by the governor July 1 at Frankenmuth. MFB's Ten-Point PIan For Drought Assistance At that meeting, Laurie read from the comments of county FB e Drought is not selective and affects program crops, non-program crops, presidents and offered the MFB livestock, and forestry. All drought legislation and/or programs ,must 10-point plan for drought assis- extend assistance to each commodity in an equitable manner. tance. The plan called for eLegislation/programs to provide drought assistance should be careful- legislation to extend the low in- ly written to ensure implementation as intended by the appropriate terest loans of those farmers who legislative body. Regulatory agencies designated to implement the legislation/programs should not be given latitude to circumvent the in- are already in the state qualified tent of the legislative body. agricultural loan program; and eSpecial factors regarding losses of perennial crops must be included in help for livestock producers in legislation/programs to provide drought assistance. Perennial crops locating new sources of roughage, such as apples, cherries, plums, and asparagus are setting buds now such as sugar beet pulp and for 1989, therefore, the legislation/programs must also recognize 1988 potato by-products. crop losses caused by the inability of perennial crops to produce buds On the federal level, sugges- while under this year's drought stress conditions. tions included excusing wheat e Drought legislation/programs must be computed on the basis of in- and feedgrain producers from dividual crop or enterprise losses rather than total farm losses. Minor repayment of advance deficiency production losses in one enterprise should not disqualify a producer payments; including in any from being eligible for assistance in another enterprise experiencing drought legislation the con- major losses from drought. sideration of the special factors eN ew costs of delivering water from existing water systems to farm involved with losses of perennial enterprises affected by the drought, i.e., deepening wells or installing crops such as apples, cherries, a pipeline to new water sources, should be eligible for cost-share assis- plums, and asparagus; and tance. making sure that minor produc- eAssistance in helping livestock producers locate and obtain delivery of tion losses in one enterprise do new sources of roughage. New sources may include sugar beet pulp, potato by-products, etc. not disqualify a producer from being eligible for help in another e Wheat and feed grain producers should be excused from repayment of advance deficiency payments. crop area that experienced a major loss. e Export bonus programs should continue to be adequately funded to maintain export of agricultural commodities at the highest possible level. FB Insurance Offers eThe state of Michigan should utilize all resources possible to prevent Special Premium Plan the diversion of Great Lakes water. eThe Michigan Legislature should extend the June 30, 1988 expiration Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance date of the low interest loan program to prevent the interest rate on Company of Michigan, the state's the outstanding loan from being increased by 4.5% for Tier IV loans largest farm insurer, introduced and 5.6% for Tier V loans. an alternative premium plan to help Michigan farmers who are experiencing cash flow difficul- ties as the result of crop losses caused by the drought condi- tions. Under the plan, farmers who have their farms insured through FB Mutual may elect quarterly term payments for their new and renewal Farmowners policy. FB Mutual also announced that re- quirements for interest-free financing of these premiums will be liberalized. The alternative premium plan applies to farmers throughout the state and will remain in effect from July 1 - Dec. 31, 1988. 10 RURAL LIVING, JULY-AUGUST 1988 MICHIGAN AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE MARKETING ASSOCIATION (MACMA) FROZEN FOOD EXPRESS FREE Strawberries and Dark Sweet Cherries 2 1/2 lb. Strawberries, whole, ready to eat berries, individually quick frozen 2 1/2 lb. Dark Sweet Pitted Cherries, individually quick frozen in a strong plastic storage bag Get both of the above when you purchase $100 worth of frozen fruit and/or vegetable STOCK UP! You know the price and quality are the best. We guarantee it! OTHER SPECIALS! MACMA Bacon, thick slice, 12 - 1 lb. vac pacs $19.95 Whitefish Fillets, boneless, individually wrapped $17.75 5 lb. carton (3.55/lb - Less than last year) Lemonade, highest quality, 24 - 12 oz. $14.80 Also Microwave Popcorn (3.4 oz. bag) $ .39 and Rainbow Trout ORDER DEADLINE -- WEDNESDAY, ,", AUGUST 24,1988. Contact ...'~.'~.' your county Farm Bureau for more information Why More New Car This is the second in a series champagne taste on a beer Why use up your valuable cash dedicated to providing helpful budget you'll be surprised by on something that depreciates as information about leasing. Over the level of luxury you can fast as an automobile? If you the next several months, Farm afford. need money for home Bureau Leasing SeIVice, will improvements, the kids' provide in-depth answers to LEASING DOESN'T TIE UP education, an emergency, or any some of the most common CASH other good reason, you won't questions about leasing. If you have to worry about having have additional questions, or When you lease there is no your dollars tied up in your car. wish to make an appointment down payment. You make your for your free analysis, call us at DRIVE A NEW CAR EVERY 1-800-544-4819. 48 Month Finance Purchase FEW YEARS PRICE Everyone likes to drive a new car, but with average new Monthly payments on a car prices nearing lease can be much lower $14,000.00, most than monthly payments people simply can't on a finance purchase. afford to buy a new car If you fmanced the Ford every few years. If you Taurus shown above for finance a car and then try to 48 months, your monthly trade it in after a couple of payment would be $314.36. * If Ford Taurus L years, you may find you owe you leased the same car, your $314.36 per month* more than the car is worth. payments would be only With leasing, you decide how $193.41.** Over 48 months, first payment, leave a fully often you'd like a new car. you could realize a net savings refundable security deposit, pay Lease terms are available from of $1,555.44.*** license and title charges 24 to 60 months, so whether (usually less than $100.00) and you want the luxury of a new MORE CAR FOR THE that's it. Why tie up a big car every two years or the low MONEY chunk of cash in a down payments of a 60 month lease, payment when you could use its up to you. Lease payments generally are that money for something really lower than finance payments important? Like a vacation. Of CONVENIENCE and there is no down payment course you could also invest with leasing, many people fmd that money and let it work for When you lease, you go to one they can afford to drive a more you instead of you working for place for any make or model. expensive car. Even if you have it. You don't have to run from dealer to dealer to com pare FACTS ABOUT LEASING Buyers Are Leasing prices. And at the end of the cases, we can give you an exact domestic. It doesn't matter if tenn there is no used car to get computer quote on the spot. you want a Ford or a Ferrari you rid of. You simply bring the car And there's never any "hidden can get it from Farm Bureau back or you can buy it at fair costs" or other unpleasant Leasing. market value. Never again will surprises. you have to worry about getting REPUTATION a fair trade- in from a fast SELECTION talking car dealer or go through With the strength and reputation the hassle of trying to sell the Fann Bureau handles all makes of Michigan Fann Bureau car yourself. After all, if you and models of cars, import and behind us, Farm Bureau Leasing wanted to be a used car sales- enjoys the kind of credibility man, you'd do it for a living. 48 Month Closed End Lease and reputation no one else can match. We intend to carry on the high level of WHYTHEY'RE service and quality that the Michigan Farm LEASING FROM Bureau Family of FARMBUREAU Companies has always LEASING stood for. LOW DISCOUNT RATES Ford Taurus L $193.41 per month** TOLL FREE Our fleet buying power means ALL AREAS we get the lowest prices possible, and we pass these 1-800-544-4819 savings on to you. You never have to haggle to get a good deal. We'll give you the best possible price right up front, even over the phone. In most * $11,806 base MSRP x 4% sales tax = $12,278.24 at 10.5% apr. over 48 months = $314.36 per month for a total of $15,089.28. ** Price calculated 2/88 based on '88 model factory order. Manufacturer has ended '88 production. '89 prices unavailable at time of printing. No mileage charge up to 60,000 miles. Additional mileage calculated at .08~ per mile. Option to purchase after 12 months. Lessee responsible for excess wear and tear. 48 month closed end lease to qualified applicants total of payments equal 59,283.68 plus 4% use tax. $500 refundable security deposit, license registration and fir-it month rental required at lease signing. lllustration mayor may not reflect actual equipment. Prior leases excluded. *** Difference in cash outlay of $5,805.60 minus projected residual value of $4,250.16 equals projected net savings of $1,366. FACTS ABOUT LEASING Friends of Agriculture Announced By Donna Wilber peals. AgriPac did not endorse a nize the importance of candidate for the 11th District agriculture in the areas they will U.S. House of Representatives. represent," Conklin said. E ight farmer members of AgriPac, MFB's political ac- tion commi ttee, spent near- ly nine hours at FB Center in Lans- That endorsement will be made after the primary election is held and additional input from county "We stressed to the committees that they must set aside partisan politics and be completely ing on July 11 laboring over endor- FB Candidate Evaluation objective in their evaluations and sement decisions for the August 2 Committees is obtained. I think they took that charge very primary election. With recommen- AgriPac Chairperson David seriously. They recognize that dations from county FB Candidate Conklin of Shiawassee County AgriPac does not allow its endor- Evaluation Committees as the key praised the county committees sements to be influenced by factor in their decision-making for their role in evaluating and which political party a candidate process, the committee designated recommending candidates. is affiliated with," he said. 92 candidates as "Friends of "Their recommendations were County Candidate Evaluation Agriculture. vitally important to us. They Committees interviewed can- "The committee endorsed 48 know the candidates, they know didates, studied voting records, Republicans and 38 Democrats the attitudes of Farm Bureau and gained input from members for U.S. Senate, U.S. and state members in their county toward before making their recommen- House seats and six candidates the candidates, and they know dations to AgriPac. Other criteria for the Michigan Court of Ap- whether the candidates recog- used by county committees and u.s. SENATE % FB POLICY SUPPOAT DISTAICT % FB POLICY SUPPORT Donald Aiegle (D-Flint) 70% 18 Sidney Ouwinga (A-Marion) 80% 19 Donald Van Singel (A-Grant) 100% U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 20 Claude Trim (A-Waterford) 90% 21 Lynn Owen (D-Maybee) 90% DISTAICT 23 Philip Hoffman (A-Hoffman) 100% 24 David Honigman (A-West Bloomfield) 100% 2 Carl Pursell (A-Plymouth) 100% 25 Dennis Dutko (D-Warren) 90% 3 Howard Wolpa (D-Lansing) 50% 26 William Browne (D-Utica) 90% 4 Fred Upton (A-St. Joseph) 100% 27 Vincent Porreca (D-Trenton) 80% 5 Paul Henry (A-Grand Aapids) 80% 36 Gerald Law (A-Plymouth) 100% 6 Bob Carr (D-East Lansing) 60% 37 James Kosteva (D-Canton) 90% 8 Bob Traxler (D-Bay City) 50% 38 Justine Barns (D-Westland) 80% 9 Guy Vander Jagt (A-Luther) 70% 39 Jerry Bartnik (D-Temperance) 100% 10 Bill Schuette (A-Sanford) 80% 40 Timothy Walberg (A-Tipton) 80% 18 William Broomfield (A-Birmingham) 80% 41 Michael Nye (A-Litchfield) 80% 42 Glenn Oxender (A-Sturgis) 90% 43 Carl Gnodtke (A-Sawyer) 80% STATE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 44 Lad Stacey (A-Berrien Springs) 100% 45 James Middaugh (A-PawPaw) 90% 5 Teola Hunter (D-Detroit) 70% 46 Aandy Mason (A-Kalamazoo) Non-incumbent 6 Morris Hood (D-Detroit) 60% 47 Paul Wartner (A-Portage) 100% 8 Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-Detroit) 90% 48 Donald Gilmer (A-Augusta) 90% 11 Stanley Stopczynski (D-Detroit) 70% 49 Bill Martin (A-Battle Creek) 80% 12 Curtis Hertel (D-Detroit) 90% 50 Michael Griffin (D-Jackson) 80% 13 William Bryant, Jr. 51 Susan Munsell (A-Fowlerville) 100% (A-Grosse Pointe Farms) 70% 52 Margaret O'Connor (A-Ann Arbor) 80% 15 Joe Young, Jr. (D-Detroit) 90% 54 Paul Hillegonds (A-Holland) 100% 17 Aaymond Murphy (D-Detroit) 80% 55 William VanAegenmorter (A-Jenison) 90% 14 RURAL LIVING, JULY-AUGUST 1988 AgriPac for incumbents included cupational disease notification delegates at the 1977 MFB an- the degree of special efforts to in- act, FY 1988 budget reconcilia- nual meeting to develop a politi- troduce, support or oppose legis- tion, cargo preference, alterna- cal action program with desig- lation in line with FB policy; com- tive motor fuels, Farm Credit nated "Friends of Agriculture" munications with farmer con- Act, and Trade Reform Act. receiving active support in the stituents; and involvement of In the Michigan House of 1978 elections. Up until that farmers in the election campaign. Representatives, the key votes time, with the exceptions of 1974 The listing of AgriPac endorsed considered by AgriPac members and 1976 when the organization "Friends ofAgriculture" belowin- included the Michigan agricul- worked to get a farmer on the dicates the percentage of votes ture loan program, farm MSU Board of Trustees, MFB cast by the incumbent candidates operations liability, farm had historically maintained its in accordance with FB's vehicles movement, youth em- non-partisan position at election policy position on key legislative ployment in corn detassling, FY time. It was time, the delegates issues. 1988 agriculture budget, grain decided, to beef up agriculture's For the U.S. Senate key votes check-off, agricultural odors, political muscle. included the Fiscal Year (FY) Right to Farm Act, P.A. 116 AgriPac's "success record" since 1984 budget bill, 1981 farm bill refunds, and P.A 116 carry for- that time averages out to 88% of amendments, vehicle record- ward and carry back provisions. designated "Friends of Agricul- keeping requirements, deficit For non-incumbents, criteria in- ture" winning in the 1978, 1980, reduction, cargo preference, cluded the candidates' positions 1982, 1984, and 1986 general mandatory production controls, on agricultural issues and pos- elections. 1985 farm bill, farm disaster aid, sible solutions, recognition of the All FB members are urged to Farm Credit Act, and the Trade importance of agriculture to the give their full support to Reform Act. economy, and involvement of the endorsed candidates and help Key votes in the U.S. Senate in- farm people in the election elect these "Friends of Agricul- cluded farm disaster assistance, campaign. ture." trade retaliation, FY 1988 bud- AgriPac was formed as a result get resolution, textile imports, oc- of unanimous approval by voting DISTRICT % FB POLICY SUPPORT DISTRICT % FB POLICY SUPPORT 56 Frank Fitzgerald (R-Grand Ledge) 100% 97 Debbie Farhat (D-Muskegon) 100% 58 Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing) 90% 98 Ed Giese (R-Manistee) 100% 60 Willis Bullard, Jr. (R-Milford) 90% 99 Joanne Emmons (R-Big Rapids) 100% 61 Mat Dunaskiss (R-Lake Orion) 80% 100 Roland Niederstadt (D-Saginaw) 100% 62 Charlie Harrison (D-Pontiac) 80% 101 Tom Hickner (D-Bay City) 100% 64 Maxine Berman (D-Southfield) 90% 102 David Camp (R-Midland) Non-incumbent 70 Lloyd Weeks (D-Warren) 90% 103 Ralph Ostling (R-Roscommon) 90% 71 Sal Rocca (D-Sterling Heights) 90% 104 Thomas Power (R- Traverse City) 80% 74 John Maynard (O-S1. Clair Shores) 100% 105 Thomas Alley (D-West Branch) 90% 75 Ken DeBeaussaert (O-New Baltimore) 100% 106 John Pridnia (R-Harrisville) 90% 76 James Docherty (D-Port Huron) 100% 107 Pat Gagliardi (D-Drummond Island) 100% 77 Dick Allen (R-Care) 100% 109 Jim Connors (R-Iron Mountain) 80% 78 Keith Muxlow (R-Brown City) 90% 110 Richard Sofio (D-Bessemer) 90% 83 Kay Hart (D-Swartz Creek) 90% 84 John Strand (R-Lapeer) 100% 85 James O'Neill (D-Saginaw) 70% STATE COURT OF APPEALS 86 Lewis Dodak (D-Montrose) 80% 87 Francis Spaniola (D-Corunna) 90% DISTRICT 88 Robert Bender (R-Middleville) 90% 89 Gary Randall (R-Elwell) 90% 1st Patrick Conlin 90 Victor Krause (R-Rockford) 90% 1st Maureen Reilly 91 Walter Delange (R-Kentwood) 80% 92 Thomas Mathieu (D-Grand Rapids) 100% 2nd Richard Knoblock 93 Richard Bandstra (R-Grand Rapids) 80% 2nd Richard Kuhn 94 Ken Sikkema (R-Grandville) 80% 95 Alvin Hoekman (R-Holland) 100% 3rd Richard Griffin 96 Mickey Knight (R-Muskegon) 90% 3rd Tom Koernke ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ JULY-AUGUST 1988,RURAL LIVING 15 A New Look! An Old Tradition! old! Contemporary! B Dynamic! More describes the Farm Bureau organization's new graphic sym: than bol. The words describe, too, the Farm Bureau of the future that is progressive, imaginative, and ag- gressive in serving the many needs of farmers. That was the message given by MFB President Jack Laurie when he announced that the Family of Companies selected a new logo symbol as its collective membership mark, trademark, and service mark. "The contemporary lettering FB stands for Farm Bureau and the red leaf symbolizes agriculture and life itself -- the growing process involved in farm- ing. The color red was chosen be- cause it communicates the vitality of the organization," he said. Laurie chose the annual Sum- merfest Celebration, July 20 at FB Center, for the new logo presentation. Nearly 1,500 FB members were on hand for an afternoon of food, special events, games, and fellowship when all companies will have a com- black and warm red on a white or Laurie unveiled an artist's sketch mon symbol. The symbol is also light grey background really are of the new 16 foot brick and being used by the American Farm good looking in this line of cloth- aluminum sign that will mark Bureau Federation and many ing and specialty items which will the Lansing address of Farm Bureau Center on Saginaw High- other state Farm Bureau com- be available to members in the panies. near future," reported Mike way. The stylized FB now becomes In coming months, a line of spe- Kovacic, Director of the MFB In- the official logo symbol of the cially designed FB casual cloth- formation and Public Relations Michigan Farm Bureau and af- ing including hats, jackets, knit Division, who is coordinating the filiated companies, and will be shirts, and sweaters will be new logo introduction and use. used on business letters, printed made available to FB members in materials, signage, and specialty Michigan. "The attractiveness of the logo clothing items. And for the first time in the organization's history symbol and the logo colors of 16 RURAL LIVING, JULY-AUGUST 1988 Fall and Winter Escapes! ~ October 27-31,1988 Round trip air transportation from Detroit 4 nights hotel accommodations Baggage handling at hotel Economy car & taxes Experience a fly/drive holiday in sunny Southern California. Enjoy 4 nights of luxury at the San Diego Hilton Beach & Tennis Resort. With your rental car, you'll be free to explore I' California's beautiful coastline and sunny beaches, spectacular mountains and deserts, famous attractions and other points of interest at your leisure. January 28 - February 4, 1988 YOUR VACATION INCLUDES Roundtrip air transportation from Detroit Jan. 28 San Juan Feb. 1 St.Thomas Roundtrip transfers airport to dock Jan. 29 St. Maarten Feb. 2 At Sea 7 day cruise aboard the Island Princess Jan. 30 Mayreau Feb. 3 At Sea All meals and entertainment on board ship Jan. 31 Martinique Feb. 4 Miami Port taxes Jan. 28 San Juan r----------------------------~------, Please forward brochures for these Farm Bureau Group Vacations: __ San Diego CALL TODAY! __ Caribbean Cruise __ Disney World/Cruise - March 1989 Toll Free Hawaii - March 1989 1-800-331-1729 Name Address in Grand Rapids Cityrrown 1-616-452-9556 State and Zip Code Mail to: Farm Bureau Travel Service, 2421 Eastern Avenue, S.E., Grands Rapids, MI49507 ------------------------------------- Take Proper Action to Protect Grain, Beans By Robert Craig ,Manager MFB Com- ment from the Westmac producers delivering grain to modity Activities and Research Grain Elevator insolvency. In elevators, and not making a cash Department June of this year, farmers who sale, must be offered a warehouse held warehouse receipts from the storage receipt on a price later Clinton County elevator receiv- agreement. D uring the 1980s at least 20 Michigan grain dealers declared bankruptcy or in- solvency. The resultant cost to ed full payment of their claims. Those who did not have warehouse receipts, or were in New Proposals Seek to possession of scale tickets, Extend Protections farmers and other grain depositors has been $4.4 million of net losses. received only 21 cents on the dol- Farmer losses ranged from no pay- lar, pointing to the need for chan- Legislation has been introduced ment to payment representing a ges to the existing legislation in in the Michigan Legislature, en- few cents on the dollar of value. order to cover cash sales. titled, Commodity Insurance Yet in recent bankruptcy cases, Changes to provide fair and (H.B. 4997), sponsored by Reps. some farmers received full pay- equitable legal protections for Spaniola and Randall. ment through the courts. farmers had the support and in- The bill passed the House and is You say there ought to be a volvement of the Michigan Farm now in the Senate Ag Committee. law ...? There is, but it needs some Bureau and the Michigan Grain The bill amends the Grain strengthening! and AgriDealers Association. Dealers Act to provide for a state The value of using existing Provisions in the Uniform Com- insurance fund generated by the protections set out in legislative mercial Code make available collection of 1/10 of a cent per dol- changes to the Uniform Commer- liens that farmers can take lar value on specific grains and cial Code and the Michigan Grain against an elevator in the amount beans. It also contains provision Dealers Act was clearly the of the commodity delivered. for a grower referendum. lesson for a group of mid- Stipulations in the Michigan FB supports the referendum Michigan farmers seeking settIe- Grain Dealers Act require that provision. The fund would be designed to Introducing r reimburse all farmers aproximately 80% of their losses due to an elevator bankruptcy/in- for The'WYeed solvency. If a grain dealer goes broke, pay- New YYizard~ ments could be made to producers very quickly, rather than having to wait out the long and often the ultimate solution for rotary trimmer problems complex bankruptcy proceedings. • No more trouble with trimmer FB also supports amending the line - never buy line again! Michigan Grain Dealers Act to provide protection to producers • Easy to install on any who have delivered grain and gas trimmer. beans to a grain dealer on a for- • Cuts through tough weeds, ward contract, basis contract, or briars, grass and problem a cash sale, but have not yet been vegetation. paid. • Keeps your rotary trimmer in business. TO ORDER CALL 1-800-262-5122 (Call for dealership inquiry) I ] VISA I ] M/C # Exp. Date I ] Check enclosed lor $21.95 plus $2.50 postage and handling. Trimmer Make Model # Name Street City State Zip Send to: WEED WIZARD, INC. P.O. Box 275, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533 MiFB 788 18 RURAL LIVING, JULY-AUGUST 1988 Agrinomic Update Red Tart Cherry Industry Responds to National Survey Michigan's red tart cherry in- Should a federal marketing in Detroit and Chicago during dustry, which is the nation's order have provisions for promo- March, 1988. They developed a production leader, has suffered a tion? 84.4% Yes; 15.6% No new "market allocation" concept year of low prices and burden- Should a federal marketing federal marketing order proposal. some supplies of cherries relative order have a provision for new Eight major objectives are a part to demand. product development? 81.0% Yes; of this proposal and they are as The supply-price equation was 19.0% No follows: worsened by the two years ab- Should a provision for research eIncrease cherry industry in- sence of the red tart cherry be included in a federal market- come compared to recent very federal marketing order, an in- ing order? 77.8% Yes; 22.2% No low levels. dustry-designed, self-help Would you favor regulating the e Raise prices by tailoring sup- program. surplus cherries to more closely plies in primary markets to slow According to a study prepared align supply with demand? 79.2% growing (inelastic) demand. by the Department of Agricultur- Yes; 20.8% No e Encourage demand expansion al Economics at Michigan State Should the federal marketing as much as possible. University, the cost to Michigan order include provisions for a eProvide a wide degree of growers alone has been over $40 surplus pool even though it is not flexibility to processor handlers. million during the past 12-14 likely to be used in the near fu- eProvide substantial flexibility months. ture? 56.8% Yes; 43.2% No to growers while also raising Would you favor the federal their prices and incomes. Growers and Processors marketing order having pro- eHave a program which is politi- Surveyed visions for an assessment of all cally acceptable within the cher- growers to finance a one-time tree ry industry, to the U.S. Depart- Growers and processors are now ment of Agriculture and to the removal program utilized on a wider public. involved in taking action to re- voluntary basis by growers? store the market stability e Be as equitable as possible to 38.4% Yes; 61.6% No various growers and processors provided by the federal market- recognizin~ the diversity within ing order system. Market Allocation the cherry Industry. A nationwide survey of over Proposal e Improve the quality of cherries 2,500 growers and processors this that are marketed. past winter resulted in very Based on these results, industry favorable results in most areas. leaders, including the Michigan This month's Agrinomic Update was A total of 708 responses was Agricultural Cooperative Mar- written by Robert G. Craig, Manager, MFB Commodity Activities and received. Distribution of keting Association and Michigan Research Department. responses was: 66% from Farm Bureau staff, held meetings Michigan, 11% from New York, 2% from Pennsylvania, 9% from Wisconsin, 7% from Utah, and 5% from Oregon. The following is a summary of the responses: GET THE ARTHRITIC LIFT CHAIR • A great help for people who want "better mobility." Do you favor all cherry states • Stand up without straining • • Enjoy your precious Independence. being included in a federal • Sit down gently with push button control. marketing order? 86.8% Yes; • Choice of styles to buy or rent. • Statewide home demonstration and delivery. 13.2% No Should the federal marketing "A LIFT CHAIR CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE" order have a provision to provide A MEDICARE APPROVED PRODUCT - ASK US for market development as needs CALL TODAY, ASK FOR FREE CATALOG are identified? 86.2% Yes; 13.8% TOLL FREE 11-800-428-92341 No (313) 751-0829 Should this include an emphasis on the export market? 84.4% Yes; LIFT CHAIRS, INCORPORATED SINCE 1971 28120 Dequindre, #208, Dept. RL78, Warren, MI 48092 15.6% No JULY-AUGUST 1988, RURAL LIVING 19 Grassroots Perspective Getting Together Discussion Topic County FBs around the state are getting charged up to achieve the 1987-88 goal of organizing two new Community Action Zoning For Agriculture Groups in each FB county. The following counties have reported Fresh country air. Open spaces for living and recreation. Traditional newly organized CAGs: ru;al. val~es. Soun~ id~al? For livin~, raising a family, or retiring, Alcona - Alcona #1 MichIgan s countrysIde IS VIewed as Just such a place. This vision of Arenac - Arenac's Melting Pot, country living prompts city dwellers and residential developers to bid on Lady Farmers ~ral property ..Rural areas are also coveted for other uses such as shop- Chippewa - Former Corktown pIng centers, aIrports, and even state-owned facilities such as prisons. Copper Country - Keweenaw As a result, farmland continues to be developed at a rapid pace. Accord- ing to the American Farmland Trust, between 1977 and 1982 600 000 AgriBusiness acres of prime and unique farmland were converted to non-fa~ use~' an Eaton - Eaton #2 Genesee - Genesee #1, Genesee annual loss of 120,000 acres. The organization concluded that "altho~gh #2 some co~ver.sion is essential for economic progress, too often it is the best land whIch IS pulle~ or pushed out of production, with little thought to Ingham - Swine and Dandies the consequent enVIronmental, economic and social impacts." Macomb - Local Ladies, Good Throughout rural America, residential development has led to com- Growers Mason - Meet If We Can plaints by non-farm neighbors about the dust, noise, odors, and possible groundwater contamination associated with agricultural activities. Monroe - Monroe #1, Young & These complaints generally revolve around normal and traditional farm- Restless Otsego - Wait Til Next Month ing practices. While many of the concerns focus on the disposal of live- Presque Isle - Country Folks, stock manure, complaints have also included the "unpleasant" odor of new mown hay! Presque Isle #3 Clearly farmers, resi~ential and business developers, and local govern- St. Clair - St. Clair #2 St. Joseph - Prairie River ment have much to gaIn through proper and appropriate use of the rural Shiawassee - Midnight Farmers land res?~ce. The social and environ~ental issues facing many local communItIes today are the result of earlIer haphazard and ill-conceived Tuscola - Tuscola #2 rural, non-farm development, or because little thought was given to the These new CAG members are preservation of natural resources such as lakes streams forests and prime or unique farmland. In recent years, conce~n over the irrevo~able weekly finalists from May 2 loss of these natural resources, led to the use of local zoning as a tool for through July 13 who will be communities to plan for their future. eligible for the Paradise Vacation Grand Prize Drawing at Sum- Zoning is regulation of the use of land. MFB members support this process through current policy, which states: "Local zoning can be a merfest, July 20: powerful tool to balance the rights of farmers and rural residents. We Jackson - Joann Baum, Country urg? members to. b~come. active.ly involved in land use planning and Lovers Cass - Vicki Brossman, Pick of zonIng. For a rea~stIc zonIng ?rdlnance, the plan must be both visionary and comprehensIve, protectIng current farming enterprises against the Litter encroachment from expanding communities. II Alpena - DeLynn Timm, Hol- W~th proper local. zoning, .communities can ensure that productive comb Creek Ottawa - Terry Preston and agnculturallands WIll not be Inappropriately converted to non-farm uses. Mike Gunckel, Bill's Bunch Th~ majority of the 1,242 townships in the state have some form of zoning Bay - Kathy Wackerle, Bay ordlnanc.es as governed by ~tate law. Also, the vast number of Michigan's 83 countIes have some zonIng or countywide plans in effect. County Young Farmers Presque Isle - Esther Schaefer, To.wnship zonin~ o~dinances. are under the scrutiny of the township Country Folk zonIng board consI~tIng o~ reSIdents appointed by the elected township Mecosta - Larry Hatfield, East boar~. When t~ere IS a zonIng change request, application for special use Side Stoney Hills permIt, or ordInance change proposal, specific procedures must be fol- Arenac - Sandra Schwab, lowed before the request may be granted or denied. Arenac's Melting Pot The prop?sal must be s~bmitted in writing by an individual, group, or by ~he z?n!ng board. Re~Idents must be given the opportunity to express theIr opInIons at a publIc hearing. The zoning board must submit their r?commendation for approval or denial to the county planning commis- ~Ion, unless ~he county.board of commissioners passed a resolution waiv- Ing county nght of reVIew. After 30 days, the proposed change, with the 20 RURAL LIVING, JULY-AUGUST 1988 summary of public comments Lansing FB was successful in obtaining from the hearing, is submitted to (continued from page 5) several amendments including the township board regardless of an exemption from the covered whether the zoning board and to receive the part of their P.A load requirement for farm trucks coun ty recommend adoption or 116 tax refund previously hauling seasonal products. denial of the proposed amend- denied by the Treasury Depart- Amendments to the "Bumper ment. The town-ship board may ment. Bill" would enforce the federal accept the recommendation, in All legislators voting for this regulations when they are final- which case it goes into effect. If legislation are to be commended ized. the township board rejects the for their willingness to correct the The bills have been passed on recommendation, it is then sent serious financial problem created the House floor. Because of sum- back to the zoning board for fur- for many farmers. mer recess, they will not be con- ther consideration. P .A.116Late Penalty Charge: sidered in the Senate before the How can FB members become H.B. 4918, introduced by Rep. fall session. active in the zoning process? One Niederstadt, permits local Low Interest Loans: H.B. way is to seek election to your governments to exempt P.A 116 5515 and S. 808 would extend the township board or seek appoint- property taxes from a late June 30, 1988, deadline on the ment to your zoning board. penalty charge of 3% if the taxes state's low interest loan program. Another way is to closely monitor are paid after Feb. 15 and before The Senate passed S. 808, the activities of your local March 1. This provides more time but it was never considered by the township and offer input into for the farmer to receive a refund House. Farmers in the low inter- zoning changes that affect before paying the taxes. Itis espe- est loan program will begin agriculture. cially important because of the paying approximately 4% addi- Many townships develop long- permitted deferral of summer tional interest because of range master plans. County FBs taxes. It has passed the House, the expiration of the program. and Community Action Groups and the Senate is expected to pass Pesticide Bill: H.B. 4674 have a vital role to play in offer- the bill in September in time for remains in the Senate Agricul- ing information and opinions to 1988 taxes. tural Committee where work on help shape these plans. P.A.116 and Trusts: The U.S. the bill will be continued for com- A community development Treasury Department made sev- mittee consideration in the fall. plan, which acknowledges that eral administrative changes Sen. Smith, R-Addison, is con- farm-land conversion will occur, creating a problem for farms that sidering language similar to that and implements a sound zoning have a revocable living trust, and in the U-Pick and Right-to-Farm ordinance to direct non-farm are also enrolled in P.A 116. The laws, which gives legislative as- develop-ment to areas least new regulations require these surances that if a farmer followed suited to agricultural production, farms to file as a corporation both the pesticide label directions will help assure the protection of under the Single Business Tax and generally accepted agricul- quality farmland for all of our fu- CSBT) provision. FB believes this tural and management practices, tures. is unfair. A 1982 Treasury he would be exempted or For further information on Department memo states that protected from liability for al- various types of zoning, read the grantor of a revocable trust leged groundwater contamina- Planning and Zoning for should file as an individual. The tion by pesticides. Farmland Protection: A Com- IRS also takes a similar position MDABudget: H.B. 5452 is the munity Based Approach, by the for federal tax purposes. The budget bill for fiscal year 1988-89 American Farmland Trust. departmenfs sudden change to for the Department of Agricul- Discussion Questions: prohibit this filing status for ture. A major concern is the • Is 25% or more of the total tax revocable trusts is expected governor's hiring freeze, assessed valuation in your com- often referred to as the "three for munity classified as agricul- to extend to partnerships next year. one Executive Order," and ade- ture? quate funding for fruit and .Have the total number of Truck Bills: The House Transportation Committee con- vegetable inspection and food in- residential parcels in your com- spection. The Senate Appropria- munity increased significantly sidered a package of 17 bills in ad- in the last five years? dition to three Senate bills deal- tions Committee restored what ing with commercial truck appears to be adequate funding • Is agriculture represented on either your local zoning board, regulation. for these vital inspection services. township board or your county The series of bills is based on FB worked to restore both the planning commission? proposed federal regulations staff positions and funding. which would make major changes Lansing legislative topics are Prepared by Becky Jeppesen, to the Commercial Truck Act in- reviewed by the Michigan Farm manager, Michigan Farm Bureau cluding increased enforcement, Bureau Public Affairs Division. Community Activities Department additional revenue for enforce- ment, and added safety regula- tions. JULY-AUGUST 1988, RURAL LNING 21 In 1948,Norman Rockwell honored 4-H in an illustration. Today you can honor 4-H with this set of limited collector's plates. ack in 1948, Norman B Rockwell traveled around Jay County, Indiana, with Herald K. Rippey, county agent. 'The County Agent" Based on a Saturday Evening Post illustration by Norman Rockwell The results of his experience be- came a wonderful painting and a two-page illustration in the Satur- day Evening Post. This is the only painting Mr. Rockwell ever made depicting 4-H. Today the original art is hanging in the Nebraska Center for Continuing Education at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Many things may have changed since 1948, but the dedi- cated tradition of 4-H members remains. Today MFB Young Farmers and the Michigan 4-H Founda- tion are cooperating to offer these collector's plates. The first issue, The first issue of "The County Agent" is strictly limited to a manufacturing period on the left, shows Mr. Rippey ex- of 100 days or a subscription period that will end on December 31, 1988, whichever amining a livestock entry for the comes first. The second issue will end its manufacturing period on September 30, 1989. Once the edition is closed, no additional orders will be accepted and no ad- coming county fair while the ditional plates will ever be made. Copyright 1948 Saturday Evening Post. father of the 4-H member looks on. The second issue, on the right, fers to assure the best color "The County Agent" pair of shows the 4-H members waiting balance and detail. These full collector's plates were created ex- for their entries to be pre-judged. color transfers are hand applied elusively for 4-H. They are of- Together, you experience the to the plate and "fired" in a spe- fered as a set or individually for long tradition of 4-H that has cial kiln at very high tempera- only $29.97 each plus shipping benefited so many young people tures, permanently fusing the and handling. The proceeds of through the years. color to the plate. Each plate will your purchase will help to sup- To preserve the color and detail be individually hand numbered port the Michigan 4-H dairy of the original, the creators chose on a special backstamp and ac- program. Add these beautifully an 8-1/2", fine porcelain plate companied by a matching num- crafted collector's plates to your with a rich border of 23K gold. bered certificate, affirming the collection or home and help Great care has been take in plates status as part of this his- young people continue the tradi- preparing special ceramic trans- toric limited edition. tion of 4-H as they learn by doing. I:.'Add the~e bea~tifull~' crafu;d ~~ll~ct;;:;~plate~'to' ~our collection ~r home and help ~ the tradition of 4-H as they learn by doing. YO~g people continu~'1 ~ Plate 1 - first issue How many $29.97 each total $ ~ Plate 2 - second issue How many __ $29.97 each total $ J ~ Frame - 2 plate sets only How many __ $24.95 each total $ ~ Please add $3.15 postage and handling tor first plate and 50 subtotal $ I cents for each plate and/or frame shipped to the same address. Make check payable to Michigan 4-H Foundation. Mail to: 4700 S. Hagadorn Rd., #220, East Lansing, MI 48823 postage $ TOTAL $ Ordered By: Ship to if different: I I. Name Address Name Address 22 i g~:~t:~iP. "~,., .., "",,,~,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,~,~~~::i.~ ,."", ,.",,." "."",==J RURAL LIVING, JULY-AUGUST 1988 Farm Bureau Market Place MISCELLANEOUS MISCELLANEOUS REAL ESTATE LIVESTOCK KILN DRIED SHA VINGSI Sold by the FREE COLLEGE GRANT MONEY! FREE BROCHURE OF SOUTHEAST TROUT, BASS, HYBRID bag or by bulk. Phone 517-770-4540. Scholarships, loans. Billions available! MICHIGAN PROPERTIES. Call or BLUEGILLS, PERCH, WALLEYE, (1/S-12p) Guarantee everyone applying qualifies write Faust Realty, 340 East Maumee, CATFISH, AERATORS, ALGAE AND for five financial sources! Most receive Adrian, MI 49221. Phone 517-263-8666. WEED CONTROL. Stoney Creek Trout DELICIOUS AND EASY BLUEBER. over twenty! Send $3 (REFUNDABLE) All types of listings needed. We have Farm, 11073 Peach Avenue, Grant, MI RY RECIPES: All home teBt.ed. Send $3 for brochure, instructions, short que ... buyers waiting. 49327. (5-6t-2Op) and SASE to: Blueberry Farm, 6540 W. tionnaire. Nationwide Scholarship (1/S-12t-28p) 92nd St., Fremont, MI 49412. Finders, Box2257,Lynchburg, VA 24501. (1/S-2t-22p) (1/S-2t-36p-ts) HOUSE FOR SALEI Crane Lake, Fen- ton, Michigan - 4 bedroom on 1-3/4 acre AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD pup. NEW! WEIGHT LOSS CASSETTE wooded lot. Formal dining, Camily room, FARM EQUIPMENT PIES FROM WORKING PARENTS. TAPE! Lose 20 pounds monthly I No star- study and two baths. Phone 313-732-5910 Phone 517-738-8667. (7I8-8p) vationl Use your subconscious mind! or 313-629-4481. (71S-23p) CUSTOM MANURE PUMPING SER. Enjoy losing! Even when all else fails! VICE - Emptying liquid storage. with ir- OUTSIDE WOODBURNING FUR. SATISFACTION GUARANTEEDI Sp& CONDO AT NEW SMYRNA BEACH, rigation equipment. Phil Banner 1-800- NACEI Keeps fire hazard and mess out of rial! $8.95 plus $1.00 postage. Hamiltons, FLA., FOR RENT. Completely fur- 682-7731. (7/S- home. Provides constant, economical Box 652-31, New Ulm, MN 56073. nished, two bedrooms, two baths, ocean 6t-13p) heat. AQUA-THERM, Dept. RL, Brooten, (1/S-36p-ts) view from the fourth floor. Tastefully MN 56316. Phone 612-346-2264. decorated. Phone 517-669-8252. W ANTEDI USED FARM (1/S-22p-ts) (1/S-21p) MACHINERY Especially tractora, com- bines, comheads and com pickera. 25 FOR SALEI WINDOW SASH, values to $49 closeout $1.89 to $2.89. White pine REAL ESTATE years in business. Shinabery Brothers. wood mouldings 50% oft Phone 313-732- LIVESTOCK Phone (S-12t-17p) 517-523-2803 evening •• 5910 or 313-629-4481. (7/8-29p) FOR SALEI 20 ACRES OR WILL SELL 10 ACRES, AS YOU PREFER. FOR SALEI THOROUGHBRED LUXURIOUS GERMAN SOAPS. Highland, 10 minutes from Munising. BEEF TYPE SHORTHORN BREED- Aromatic, long lasting. Makes unique, af- Write: Rte. 1, Box 892, Munising, MI ING BULLz At butcher price. Phone 906- fordable gift. Send SASE to Superior 49862. (71S-24p) 387-2945 or write Star Rte., Box 527, NURSERY STOCK Scents, Box 23 RL, E agle River, MI 49924. Weetmore, MI 49895. (71S-2t-18p) a-lIt-lOp) WHATLEY REALTY, INC., East BERRY PLANTS - Raspberries, straw- Chicago, Tecumseh, Michigan. Phone REGISTERED ANGUS BREEDING berries, blueberries, currants, gooseber- WRITE YOUR OWN WILL - It's legal. 517-423-7411 or 517-263-7855. Multiple STOCKz For sale at all times. Bordner ries, others. Free catalog. Makielski Save money. 4-Forms fill out. $3.50 listing services for real estate. Homes, Angus Farms, 68730 County Farm Road, Berry Nursery, 7130 Platt Road, Dept. prepaid. Fast service, moneyback Carms, commercial, auctioneer, and real- Sturgis, MI 49091. Phone 616-651-8353. RL, Ypsilanti, MI 48917. Phone 313-434- guaranteed. PICK's, Dept. RL, tor. Vaughn Lewis - evenings phone 517- (6-12t-lOp) 3673. (ll-I2t-22p) Tompkinsville,KY 42167. 431-2571. (6-4t-25p) (5-6t-22p-ts) FREEl COLORFUL POULTRY HARDY NORTHERN GROWN FOR RENT: TWO BEDROOM CABIN CATALOG. Offering top quality chicks STRAWBERRY AND ASPARAGUS "WILL FORMS." Ready to fill in. Anyone ON CHAIN OF LAKES, with boat in- (Bantams, Exotics, Standards) at rock- PLANTS - Free Brochure. Krohne Plant can. Only $4.25 (2 for $6.95). Forms, Box cluded, weekly rental, furnished. Write: bottom prices. Clinton Hatchery, Box Farms, Rt. 6, Box 586 RL, Dowagiac, MI 3609, New Haven, CT 06525. Rte. 1, Box 892, Munising, MI 49862. 54S-MRL, Clinton, MO 64735. Phone 49047. (4-6t-lOp-tss) (1/S-21p) 816-885-8500. (3-5t-24p-tss) (l1-13t-21p) Rural Living would like to thank all oftOOsewoo have used the Farm Bureau Market Place page. Because of the new rrwnthly format ofRural Leader newsletter, and with Rural Living becoming a quarterly publication, this will be the last appearance of Farm Bureau Market Place. Refunds will be made to tOOsewoo paid for inserts beyond this issue. Advertisers' Index Rural Living would like to thank these advertisers for their support: Blue CrossIBlue Shield ••••••••••••••••••••••• 2 MFB'I.'i-llvel Senrice •••••••••••••••••••••••••• 17 Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Weed Wi7.a.ro., me 18 .Assooiation •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 3, 11 Lift C~, me 19 MFB Young Farm.ers •••••••••••••••••••••••• 8 Farm Bureau Insurance Group ••••••••••.•••• 24 MFB ~ Car Company••••••••••••••••••• 12 JULY-AUGUST 1988, RURAL LIVING 23 "I Your farm is our office. Farm Bureau Insurance understands what Michigan's drought is doing to your farming operation. We want to help. because From July 1,1988 to Decem- ber 31, 1988: ~e ca"e " ~ • - ! ~ Quarterly term payments are available for new and renewal Farmowners policies. ~ Upon request, any premium due can be delayed for farmer clients with these Farm Bureau Mutual policies: Farmowners, Auto, Homeowners, Country Estate and -non-Safety Group Ag Workers' Compensation. ~ Required premium deposit for premium-financed policies is lowered from 25% to 150;0. The minimum size for premium-financed policies is reduced from $600 to $500. Also, current 5- and 9-payment schedules can be expanded to 10 upon request. Remember, there is no interest charge for financing premium payments. making 'Jour Your Farm Bureau Insurance agent wants to help you. Call future a today to find out how committed we are to ... little more predictable • ... FARM BUREAU .,.. •• _~ fAIM IUtIAU INSURANCE MUT\JAl • fUN. --...u lR • fAIM a.ItlAU GlMIAl • FI .&IeI.JfTY t~ Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine Non-Profit Org. P.O. Box 30960 U.S. Postage 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy. PA 10 Lansing, Michigan 48909 Grand Rapids, MI Permit No. 380