I.~ __ ...... L The difference between of over 3.5 million farming apples and oranges can be families and other independent spotted at a glance. U nfor- businesses. The result: top tunately, it's not quite as easy notch health care insurance to tell the difference between at down-to-earth prices. health insurance policies. That's why we recommend As a Farm Bureau member that you take a moment to read you can choose from three the fine print if you're offered traditional Blue Cross Blue health insurance for less than Shield Comprehensive Major Farm Bureau rates. Chances are ivledical plans starting as low you're being asked to compare, as $60.12 a month. (The higher well ... apples and oranges. the deductible, the lower the premium.) Regardless of the What you'll find is that dollar plan you choose, you'll get the for dollar, Farm Bureau same Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance is the better value. comprehensive major medical That's because Farm Bureau coverage. offers you the buying strength So go ahead--compare. As sure as apples aren't oranges. I , Just make sure you know what you're comparing. When the decision's in, we think you'll choose a Farm Bureau health care insurance plan for its affordability, the services it offers, and the protection it provides against unscheduled time off. What matters to you 'matters to us. For further information call 1-800-292-2680 or contact your WHERE local Farm Bureau agent. BELONGING MAKES A +(UJ~g: ... MICHIGAN FARM BIJREAIJ DIFFERENCE . ••• FAMILY OF COltfPANIES 1.11 VOL.66 NO.4 Fall 1989 mlCHIGan.s RURAL LIVING - ~ IJ FaRm BeST --- MICHIGAN FARM NEWS MACMA HOLIDAY SALE Introducing ... •FRlliT SAUSAGE VARIETY BOX 3# Cheny Pecan and 3# Apple Plum Sausage $18.90 -BRAT VARIETY BOX 3# White Brats and 3# German Brats $16.90 Better Care, Higher Profits Proper care and -HONEY KRUNCH PEANUTS management of farm animals mean higher profits for Fried Peanut with Sweet Honey Glaze 11 oz. Vacuum Packed dairy and livestock producers ...page 7 $2.25 Making News with County FB Publications -WISCONSIN CHEESE WHEELS From mall displays to policy development, county Fann 2 112 # Shatp Cheddar Wax-dipped, Individually Boxed Bureau newsletters deliver close-to-home news that $11.80 keeps members informed and involved in their organiza- tion ...page 10 2# Baby Swiss, Individually Boxed $11.30 First Choice Doug Darling, the young dairyman who ORDER DEADLINE was the winner of the 1988 Young Fanner Discussion Meet, has considered other ag careers, but he says farm- November 15 ing is his first choice...page 12 DELIVERY December 4-15 Rural Leader Newsletter Read this special section of news and information about issues that affect Fann Bureau and the families who make their living in the For more information and state's second largest industry -- agriculture. full listing of products available, contact your County Farm Bureau or call MACMA at: 1-800-292-2680, Ext. 2305 Rural Uving is Published Quarterly: on the flrat day of October, January, April and July by the Mic:h1gan Farm Bureau Information and Public Relations Dtvis1on. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw H1ghway, Lanstng. Michigan 48917, Poet Office Box 30960 (zip 48909); phone 1-517-323-7000, For information on the e.xt.enston 6585. MICHIGAN SAMPLER Subscriptions: $1.50 per year to members, 1ncluded tn annual dues. $3 per year non-members tn DIRECT SHIP PROGRAM M1c:h1gan, $5 per year non-members out of state. Publication No. 345040. Eatab1!ahed Jan. 13, 1923, 8.11 M1ch1gan Farm NeWB, name changed to Michigan Farm Neww Rural Uvtng Dee. 1, 1981. 'Ihtrd-claaa postage see page 30 paid at Lanstng. M1chtgan, and at addtt10nal ma1ltng offices. Editorial: Connie TurbIn. Editor and Bustness Manager; Kfmberly Mar.be11 Neumann, Asaodate Editor and Production Manager. Officers: Michigan Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cau City: Vice President Wayne Wood, Mar- lette; Adm1n1strative Dtrector, Charles Burkett; 'lrea.surer and ChfefFtnandal Officer, Tom Parker; Secretary, Wlll1am 5. W1lk1nson: Directors: District 1, Marlin Outman, Constantine; Disbict 2, Blaine VanS1ckle, Marahall; Disbict 3, Diane Homtng. Manchester; Dtsbict 4, Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlette; Dtsbict 7, Lany 5n1der, Hart; Dtstrtct 8, l¥le LeCronier, Freeland; Dlstrtct 9, JOIlbua Wunsch, Traverse City; Dtabict 10, Margaret Kartes. West Branch; Distrtct 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At- Forjlugir Kingdonl Club '-~Ielnbrl~ f$S National CarRental ~ 23% Discount at partkipating :-\ational Car Rental locations. RE'Cap~umber 6666666 ~ational Car Rental's incredible discounted rates are getting nwe l"e\'iews from Magic Kingdom Club members: 23%off ~ationars daily counter rate A.\1) 10%off weekend, holiday and weekly rates. ~ext time you need to "Roll 'ern': .. get behind the wheel of a ~ational Car Rental and get a great Magic Kingdom Club price! For Reser,'ations CalII-SOO-CAR-RENT We feature G~I cars like the 1989 Che\1'Olet ~lini\CUl shown on the right. HILTON 10%Discount for Magic Kingdom Club members at most Hilton Hotels in the t:s. Quiet on the set! As a Magic Kingdom Club member, that's what you'll get at Hilton. PLUS save 10%on your accommodations! And kids stay free in their parent's room, too. Youcan go 1>nlocation" to hundreds of Hiltons across America. Just present your valid Club card at the time of check-in and ef\joy star-quality Hilton lm.'ury, service and convenience ... all at a 10%savings! For Reservations or More Information CallI-SOO-HILTONS Advanl'e reservations recommended. Offer not valid for group or convention resenlltions and may not be used in combination with othE.'rdiscount offers ur spe<'ial rates. \our FREE Magic Kingdom Club Membership Card and Guide are available now! 'P/ W~~h ~o~!SNEY TRIP app'ication,mem bership Name Home Address (Please do noI use buSiness address) State __ Zip Code City Complete this application and return t~: Michigan Farm Bureau, Me~be~ Services Dept. P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Michigan 48909 Experience the History and Glamour of the Television And Film Making at the Disney- MGM Studios Theme Park Magie Kingdom Club members will find that going to the movies takes on a new meaning at the Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, Orlando, Fla. The new 135- acre theme park is located just south of EPcar Center at the Walt Disney World Resort. It in- cludes a complete motion-picture and television studio, a themed entertainment park with shows, attractions (including Disney's most ambitious ride-through at- traction, 'The Great Movie Ride") and a Backstage Studio Tour of the production facilities. Entering the park's gates, Magic Kingdom Club members find themselves on a re-created Hollywood Boulevard of the 30's and 40's with art-deco and streamlined modem-style Hol- lywood-themed shops and res- taurants. Eccentric street characters from Hollywood's heyday such as autograph hounds and hawkers of maps to stars' homes roam the street in- Mickey Mouse takes a shot at movie production on location at the teracting with guests. A full-scale new Disney-MGM Studios TI1eme Park, now open at Walt Disney re-creation of the famous World. Guests at the new theme park will have an opportunity to Chinese Theatre fills the end of watchftlming in action during the attraction's Backstage Studio Tour. (Copyright 1989, The Walt Disney World Company) Hollywood Boulevard. 'The Great Movie Ride," which guests enter through the doors of skills as film sound -effects tech- Then ies on to the 400-seat the Chinese Theatre includes nicians. Walt Disney Theater for a com- scenes featuring Hollywood's Magic Kingdom Club members bination animation -live action greatest films and stars. Club board the Studio Shuttle for the recap of what they've seen. members can experience scenes Backstage Studio Tour. They will Disney's animation depart- from Stngin' In TI1eRain, starring have a behind -the-scenes look at ment plays a starring role in the Gene Kelly; Tarzan and Jane in a the working wardrobe and crafts Backstage Studio Tour. For the jungle adventure and Raiders oj shops and then a tour of winding first time, Club members can see the Lost Ark, featuring Indiana backlot streets. Disney artists at work on the Jones. The walking portion of the many exacting aspects of the Roles from famous television tour begins in a special-effects world-renowned Disney anima- shows are up for grabs in the area in which demonstrations ex- tion. 1,00Q-seat Superstar Television plain Wcks that turn the impos- The Disney-MGM Studios Theatre, a setting reminiscent of sible into on-screen reality. The Theme Park fulfills a GO-year the golden days of live 1V broad- next stop is the sound stages, dream on the part of Florida to casts. Or you can watch the where specially designed and regain its position as a center for death-defying heroics demon- soundproofed observation cor- motion-picture production. strated in the action-packed ridors give guests a bird's eye See you in the movies! show in the Stunt Theater. In the view of ongoing productions. Monster Sound Show, guests are brought on stage to test their FAIL 1989. RURAL UVlNG 5 Prescription Program Call today for ordering information or your FREE Discount RX Catalog! 1-800- 228-3353 COMPARE PRICES AND SA VEl Brand Feld Drug Name Quantity Strength Name Brand Davocet-N Tabs 100 100 mg 33.75 14.95 Dilantin Caps 100 100 mg 12.25 6.95 Inderal Tabs 100 20mg 21.75 5.95 Inderal LA Cabs 100 80mg 50.50 35.95 Lanoxin Tabs 100 .25mg 7.75 2.95 Lasix Tabs 100 40mg 15.25 5.95 Motrin Tabs 100 600 mg 19.75 10.95 Mini Press Caps 100 2mg 33.95 11.95 Premarin Tabs 100 1.25 mg 27.50 9.95 Slow-K Tabs 100 13.95 6.95 Theo-Dur SA Tabs 100 300 mg 20.95 12.95 Better. Care, Higher Profits "Obviously. ranchers and cow becomes hungry. she goes profits. The other way to make farmers want lower livestock in- into the feeding stall, the mag- more money is to increase butter- juries which translates into in- netic stgnalinforms the machine fat content. creased profits and they will take which cow is at the stall and trig- "Overall production and butter- all the necessary precautions to gers the proper mixture of fat is controlled through diet and keep their livestock safe and ground meal for that anJmal. The breeding. We use Michigan healthy." Kevin said. machine then records how much AnJmal Breeders Cooperative the cow consumed and when. (MABClfor art1ftcialinsemina- Animal Health a High Each cow has a certain daily tion and we carefully look at the maximum allotment of ground butterfat and the animal quality Priority meal she can consume whenever before making breeding selec- she is hungry. When her allot- tions." 'The two main reasons we use ment is used up. there is always Susan was quick to point out calf hutches are for the animars hay or silage available. that diet is important in main- safety and health," said Susan "This system is good for us be- taining and increasing herd milk Huehl. Washtenaw County dairy cause from the computer's out- production, but living conditions farmer. "Being housed individual- put we can keep track of which also make a btg difference in ly. it is easier to keep track of the cow is eating. which is not. and production. amount of food each calf eats we can compare the amount of "Ahappy cow is going to and, if a calf becomes ill, they food each cow is eating to how produce more milk than an un- are easily isolated and the chan- much milk each is producing happy cow. Our herd has year- ces of the illness spreading are through the DHIA tests." she round access to a barn and each greatly reduced." said. 'The feeding machine was cow has its own stall, which we Susan and her husband, an expensive investment but, in keep clean and filled with straw. Jeny. are in partnership with the long run, the whole herd The herd is confined to a cement J eny's brother, Dennis, and his production has, on average. in- area in the winter and spring wife. Carol. The Huehls keep creased - meaning increased months. but are free to roam out track of their year-round breed- ing program on large, wheel shaped charts. 'We use artiflcial insemination in breeding our cows. We have the vet come out every two weeks to do a pregnancy check and those who have not conceived are re-bred. It is easier to keep track of the individual cows and at what stage of breeding they are in by using the big wheel breeding charts." said Susan. Computerized Feeding The largest cost on a dairy operation is the feed and equip- ment. In order to manage those costs, the Huehls use a com- puterized feeding system and the Daily Herd Improvement Associa- tion (DHIA). 'DHIA comes out and tests the herd every month for production levels and then we use that infor- mation. along with information from the Mixmaster magnet- operated feed machine. to find out what we are doing right, Susan Ruehl checks the computertzedfeeding data to keep track of what we are doing wrong, and I which cows are eating their ground meal. The data helps them rrwnttor think the combination of the two each cows' conswnption tD mUle production ratio. In addition. if a cow is a good managment tool," is not eating, it could be an early tnd.ication that the animal is ill and Susan said. they can identtfy the animal by its number and determine if it needs "All of our cows are identified medical attention. with an individualized mag- netized necklace which hangs around their neck. When the 8 RUAL UVING. FAIL 1989 • -. " ",' , "" .\ I • . ;- . --r "It. Susan checks on one of the calves to make sure it is alright and has plenty offood and water. Calves are kept in calf hutches (pictured here)for their safety and health. When the calves are young, like this one, it is easy for disease to spread if they are not kept separated.. When they are six to eight weeks old., they are let out of the hutches and arefree to move about the barnyard.. on the hillside in the summer. "Livingin the Ann Arbor area, farmers do certain things at cer- They can wander around out . most of the people that I talk tain times of the year. A lot of the there and come back in at night with, for example the Kiwanis public's misconceptions about and in the morning to be milked." Club in Ann Arbor and the farming practices come about be- Kiwanis Club in South Lyon, live cause they just don't know what Farm Bureau Speakers in the country - but don't know it takes to raise, feed and care exactly what it is their farming for crops and animals. That is neighbors do," said Susan. "One why Ijoined Farm Bureau People in the business of gentleman said he learned more Speakers, so I could talk to agriculture who are interested in about dairy farming in the half- groups of people who are inter- sharing the story of Farm hour presentation I gave, than ested in learning why agriculture Bureau and agriculture with he had learned living within one is important to them and to our others have the opportunity to mile of a much larger dairy opera- local, state and national become a Farm Bureau Speaker. tion than ours. economy." Speakers are members of Farm 'That made me feel really Bureau who are dedicated to good. that I was getting my using their talents, experiences messsage across and he was able and knowledge to communicate to understand the reasons why the importance of agriculture to we use some things, like calf members and the public. hutches. People who live in the Susan attended a special train- countIy, or who are just driving ing seminar to learn more about by, see activity on the farm and public speaking and how to best there is no one there to explain communicate her personal ex- what's going on. I think it is im- periences as a dairy farmer. portant for people to know why crops are rotated, and why FALL 1989. RURAL UVlNG 9 Making NeW's with County Farm Bureau Publications By Connie Turbin From mall displays to policy development, county Farm Bureau newsletters deliver close- to-home news that keeps mem- bers informed and involved in their'local organization. 'Without it (the county newsletter) there would be no awareness of local actMties and events," said Sharon Woodhams, Clinton County FB secretary and editor of the county's newsletter. 'We use the newsletter to an- nounce MACMAdirect marketing order information and delivery dates, Blue Cross health in- surance updates and steel sale dates." In recent issues, the county's 2,400 members read about Ag Expo at nearby Michigan State University, the county's Acres for Youth project to support voca- tional agriculture/FF A. and local Promotion and Education Com- mittee activities. Sharon said when selecting topics for the newsletter, she "goes with what's making news in the county." She also tries to Whether Created on the most up to date computer word proces- sor, or at the kitchen table, coun- ty FB newsletters provide an im- portant link between the county FB organization and the member- ship. Sharon Woodhams (top), editor of the Clinton County FB newsletter, uses the sophistt- cated Field Comm IIsystem at the county FB o.fftce to prepare the newsletter, while Northwest Region editor Dawn lott (bottom. at left) drafts the Fence Post newsletter at home. 10 RUAL UVlNG. FAIL 1989 keep the l1nes of communication Dawn Iott. regional editor of The Fence Post. newsletter for open between the FB Insurance the Northwest Michigan Region Benzie. Kalkaska. Manistee. Mis- agents and members by publish- Fence Post newsletter. said the saukee. Northwest Michigan and ing articles about new services. newsletter program gave her an Wexford County FBs. is now in insurance products. agent train- opportunity to get acquainted its fifth year of publication. ing and achievements. with other members and learn Dawn has been the editor since A regular newsletter feature is more about Farm Bureau and it began. Like many others in the a column by Clinton County agriculture in the region. Nine program. she expects to continue President Howard Straub. "I years ago. the lott's farm busi- as editor. usually focus on Farm Bureau's ness was "moved" from Jackson "I really have fun coming up legislative work. That's my con- County to Kalkaska County. with new ideas. It's a learning tribution to keeping the mem- 'This region is so rural and process. For example. I started bers informed." he said. "I think the membership is so spread receiving recipes from the county regular communication is very out. the newsletter work gives editors. It was a good idea and important for an active. informed well-liked by the members, but membership. The newsletter is with such lJm1ted space. I had to the most efficient way to keep put some controls on it." Her our members up to date on how solution? Rotate the recipe ar- their county Farm Bureau is working for them. We pack a lot The newsletter ticle among the counties giving each the chance to promote com- of information into each issue." is the most effi- modities produced there. Kimberly Neumann. MFB It takes a lot of cooperation to member communications coor- cient way to pull together a regional newslet- dinator for the statewide informa- tion program. agrees. "I believe keep our mem- ter. she admitted. To stay in touch with the Fence Post county the county newsletter program is important because people want bers up to date editors. Dawn uses telephone calls. reminder postcards and to read about and discuss what's on how their pass-along information through going on in their area. The coun- MFB Regional Representative ty newsletter provides the infor- county Farm John Amrhein. But because the mation for them to do just thaLli She provides technical. Bureau is work- newletter is such an interdepen- dent proj ect of the six county editorial and tra1n1ng support to the committees through monthly ing for them. FBs. Dawn believes that the group must meet at least once.a communication and through per- year. sonal contact with the editors. "I Howard Straub, Both Dawn and Sharon wish provide information on internal Clinton County for more feedback from board Farm Bureau events and tips on FB President members and their audience of writing and producing newslet- FB members. In the Northwest ters and the editors also receive Region. a newsletter readership the weekly Farm Bureau media SUlVey will help provide that all release packet. AgriNotes." she important feedback for Iott and said. me a chance to learn more about the Fence Post editors. According "I am also on call for in- farming and members in other to Amrhein. the survey will be dividual or regional training. counties." she said. "And with conducted at county annual This year I met with each editor two young children. I really meetings in the region. "Again. in the Upper Peninsula on an in- couldn't help out on the farm by this is a unique approach to sur- dividual basis. I also worked with driving tractor or field work." veying because this is a unique a multi-region meeting in Flint For Dawn. the Fence Post region. We believe that we will and met with secretary/office editor's position was the right get the highest percentage of managers in two separate train- sort of challenge. She was editor response and information right ing sessions." she said. of an employee newsletter back at the county annual meeting be- Currently 47 counties are in Jackson County and took cause our attendance is so high." publishing local newsletters for some creative writing classes in "Because of the agricultural their membership. About one college. But for her. the biggest diversity in the region. we third are monthly publications: plus was being able to work on depend on Farm Bureau more as most are timed to coincide with the newsletter at home. 'This is a unJfying force." Dawn ob- MACMAdirect marketing food really a kitchen table newsletter." served. 'The newsletter sales or the MFB Group Purchas- she said. "Editors from the six strengthens that bond." ing steel sale. partldpating county Farm . On the local level. the program Bureaus send me their material. is the responsibility of volunteer I do the editing and proofing and editors or county office personnel make sure it gets printed and With an interest in promoting FB. maned on schedule." FALL 1989. mIRAL UVlNG 11 First Choice By Connie Turbin A hectic summer schedule, complicated by late planting in Doug Darling, the young some fields, made finding per- dairyman who was the winner of sonal time more d1filcult in the 1988 Young Farmer Discus- recent months. But between the sion Meet, has considered other farm and a variety of community ag careers, but he will tell you responsibilities, Doug managed flatly that farming is his first to squeeze in Sunday afternoons career choice. behind the wheel of a quick, little ''You can find jobs that will go-cart. pay you $50,000 or $30,000 or "For the first few years I was $10,000 to $15,000, but what farming, Farm Bureau activities really matters is whether you're were my only outlets. Conferen- ~ doing something that you really ces and committees are work re- enjoy. Granted, there are morn- lated, but they're also fun and ings I wake up and I think there recreational. I went to four na- are 53 too many cows out there tional Young Farmer Leaders in the barn. And when the milk Conferences and twice on the check comes, I think 53 is not Washington Legislative Seminar. enough." Those were super experiences!" Doug is a 1980 graduate of Finding and using your leader- the Michigan State University Ag ship skill is the key, said Doug. Tech program and is currently "If you are interested in learning living and working on the and experiencing what Farm family's sesquicentenniel farm in Bureau has to offer, the first Monroe County. Under terms of thing you've got to do is get in- a partnership agreement made volved and be willing to take '7J you are in- with his parents, the cows and equipment at Darling Farms will some of the responsibility for run- ning this organization. A lot of terested in learn- come under his proprietorship. The 1,ooo-plus acre farm sup- people surprise themselves by what they can actually do." ing and experien- ports a Holstein dairy operation, That probably stlll goes for managed by Doug: cash crops, Doug who manages a surprising cing what Farm managed by his father; and joint number of community, FB and Bureau has to sales of seeds, chemicals and fer- ti11zer. university interests. He is township supeIVisor and selVes offer, the first' He's working hard toward farm ownership, but Doug has on two area fire boards. In his church, he has been a youth thing you've got learned that balancing work and group leader and Sunday school relaxation is an important part of teacher, and served on the to do is get in- the success equation. In fact, parish committee and ad- volved" Doug has made it his personal goal to set aside time for reading, ministrative board. FB committees at the county seeing friends and taking an an- and state level have benefitted nual skiing vacation. from Doug's inexhaustible leader- 12 RUAL IlVING. FAlL 1989 "I saw such differences among When he did decide to enter the 17 students in the program. the Discussion Meet in 1988. he Some knew where they were began compiling magazine and going or not going. And there journal articles on the four were bright ones who had the at- topics. Sorting them by subject. titude that it doesn't pay to he kept separate folders for read- think. Those are the ones you ing and review. really want to shake up." "Ive got a good memory for These days Doug is helping to statistics and facts. It helped, shake things up for MSU's ag too. because I made an outline of programs as a member of the points I wanted to make and im- CANR alumni group that closely portant statistics. I also prepared watches legislation affecting the rough drafts of my opening and ag research and education closing statement for each dis- programs. Even here. Doug gives cussion question," Doug said. the nod to Farm Bureau for the Underlying the effort was example of the telephone grid making sure that he had a good system to keep the group in understanding of the principles touch. "If we feel that some sort involved in each topic. Just as of personal contact needs to be important, he noted. is to under- made on an issue. we turn to stand the purpose of the Discus- this telephone contact system sion Meet: not a debate, but a and the word is passed to call forum for exchanging and dis- legislators in Lansing." cussing ideas and solutions. Just being a part of Farm This year. he's looking forward Bureau activities is an invaluable to participating in the Discussion experience. he said. 'That's why I Meet again. This time as a Dis- waited to participate in the Dis- trict illjudge. What will he be cussion Meet. I wanted to see looking for in the winner? Crea- other young people from my dis- tive thinking. Creative solutions. Keep farmingfun by learning trict have the chance to be a part 'There is no cookbook method to balance work and recreation. of the Young Farmer program for solving problems on the farm. advises Doug. In recent years, and see Farm Bureau in action or in farm policy, or the environ- he's planned an annual skiing at the annual meeting. he said. II ment. What is needed is creative vacation with his brother and in "After all. he said. that's the pur- thinking. creative management the summer races go-carts. pose of the Young Farmer pro- and creative solutions. Doug II gram: to surface and develop said. ship drive. He terms his tenure leaders for Farm Bureau and on the Monroe County FB board agriculture. II of directors as the most impor- tant; county and state policy development as the most interest- ing; and MFB Young Farmers as the most beneficial. Doug also served on the MFB political ac- tion committee, AgriPac, and was a member of the county's Can- didate Evaluation Committee. Commitment to MSU's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) and to ensur- ing educational opportunities in agriculture for young people is especially important to Doug. So important, in fact, that he played a key role in restoring the voca- tional agriculture/FFA program in Manchester, located in Wash- tenaw County. For six months. he prepared lessons, taught vo- ag classes, corrected papers. and supervised vo-ag projects while Doug said these dairy cows get lots of personal attention thanks to continuing to run the Monroe the smaller herd size. Nevertheless, he said. some mornings"I think County dairy operation. there are 53 too many cows out there in the barn. When the milk check comes, I think there 53 is not enough." FAlL 1989. RURAL 1JVING 13 Announcing Money-Saving •••••••••••••• rR/p pO/AIrs •••••••••••••• " I 1 • . . . Farm Bureau Members Can Now Earn Free Travel Every time you book your travel through Farm Bureau Member Travel Services, you'll earn 'TRIPPOINT£ 'TRIPPOINTg are redeemable for Free Travel! Member Travel Services also provide: • Guaranteed lowest airfares • Hotel discounts-up to 40% • Passport and visa assistance • Reduced rates to Hawaii, Europe, the Caribbean and the Far East • Cruise discounts • Free ticket delivery • Travel advice • Expanded hours-9:00am to 8:00pm, Monday to Friday For questions regarding 'TRIPPOINTS or other travel services, call our new number: 1-BOO-FLI-4272 (1-800-354-4272) We Take Better Care 01 You... Worldwide! FB Insurance Offers Scholarship Farm Bureau Insurance has panded its commitment to ex- gram reflects that the MHSAAis going to be providing more than Scholar-Athlete Award applica- tion deadlines are Oct. I, 1989 Michigan students by jo1n1ng lip seIVice to the educational em- for fall sports; Feb. I, 1990 for with the Michigan High School phasis and integrity of school winter sports and April la, 1990 Athletic Association (MHSAA)in athletics. " for spring sports. Additional in- developing the Scholar-Athlete Posters and brochures were formation about the Scholar-Ath- Award for the 1989-90 high mailed to all MHSAAmember lete Award may be obtained by school year. schools. Students applying for contacting your local FB In- The program, which officially the Scholar-Athlete Award must surance agent, or Jack Stucko, began in September, will present be canytng a 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) director of FB Insurance Cor- $1,000 scholarships to the top grade point average, and must be porate Communications, (517) male and female athlete in each currently on a varsity squad in 323-7000, Ext. 2746. of the fall, winter and spring ath- which they have earned at least The Scholar-Athlete Award is letic seasons. The total of six one letter prior to their senior only one aspect of FB Insurance scholarships for the 1989-90 season. Applicants will also be re- support of Michigan high school school year must be used at a quired to show involvement in athletes. The companies also sup- Michigan college, university or other school-community ac- port television coverage of the skilled trade school. tMties and submit an essay on boys' basketball finals; cham- Deborah Windish, vice presi- how co-curricular activities have pionship venues across the state dent of Corporate Planning and enhanced their educational ex- and girls' tournament competi- Communications for the in- perience. tions. surance companies said, Applications will be submitted Commenting on support of 'Through the MHSAA,we have to the school principal. Each girls' tournaments, Windish said, an unusual opportunity to sup- member school will be allowed to "More and more females are par- port our young people, their nominate one male and one ticipating in sports, acquiring coaches, administrators and female student -athlete for the leadership sk1lls and learning teachers. We hope the Scholar- award each season. Students how to participate on a team, Athlete Award will make the fu- from all 23 MHSAA-sanctioned fundamentals that are essential ture more predictable for sports are eligible. A committee for the future. We are pleased to Michigan high school athletes, composed of school admin- support girls' tournament com- by stressing the importance of a istrators from across the state petition and encourage more and solid academic program. The fu- will select regional and state- more females to participate." ture can take away the oppor- wide winners. The significant FB Insurance tunity of the ability to compete, The state-wide seasonal win- support of the high school stu- but it can never take away ners will be recognized at the dent is an extension of their long- knowledge. " MHSAAfootball finals at the Pon- term support of the Michigan MHSAAExecutive Director tiac Silverdome on Nov. 25, the eighth grade students through John E. "Jack" Roberts under- boys' basketball finals at the the America and Me Essay Con- lined the importance of the new Palace of Auburn Hills on March test now beg1nn1ng its 21 st year. award, "The involvement of Farm 24, and the baseball finals on Bureau Insurance and the ad- June 16. vent of the Scholar-Athlete pro- October County Annual Meetings Alcona October 23 Allegan October 5 Alpena October 25 Antrim October 11 Arenac October 9 Barry October 17 Benzie October 9 Berrien October 24 Calhoun October 3 Cass October 2 Charlevoix October 28 Cheboygan October 15 Chippewa October 26 Clinton October 21 Copper Country October 14 Eaton October 7 Emmet October 26 Genessee October 3 Gladwin October 3 Hiawathaland October 24 Ionia October 16 Iosco October 10 Iron Range October 23 Isabella October 12 Kalamazoo October 3 Kent October 10 Lapeer October 5 Livingston October 11 Mac-Luce October 11 Macomb October 12 Manistee October 2 Mason October 2 Mecosta October 9 Menominee October 25 Missaukee October 5 Montcalm October 26 Montmorency October 10 Muskegon October 10 Newaygo October 12 NWMichigan October 11 Oakland October 12 Oceana October 16 Ogemaw October 26 Osceola October 17 Otsego October 24 Ottawa October 12 Presque Isle October 3 St. Joseph October 14 Shiawassee October 10 VanBuren October 20 Washtenaw October 5 Wayne October 18 Wexford October 10 Huron County FB Holds Annual Meet- ing One of the first county an- nual meetings in the state was held in Huron County. County Secretary/Office Manager CathyTInsey, her assistant, Debra Puvalowski and MFB Senior Regional Representative, Bernie Bishop, depend heavily on the help of volunteers to have a quality annual meet- ing. The maj ortty of volun- teers belong to Community Action Groups. They divided up the responsibilltes for setting up the hall, provid- ing the treats for the dessert buffet, kitchen duty and meeting hall clean up. Local 4-H groups provided enter- tainment. Then it was down to business, as the' county FB members discussed and voted on resolutions. County Annuals Feature MACMA Products Many MACMADirect Mar- keting coordinators state- wide took advantage of a special 15 percent discount to county Farm Bureaus for product ordered on the Frozen Food Express to be used at county annuals. While many committee chairpeople plan sampling tables, others made arrange- ments to use posters and brochures featuring taste- tempting Michigan prod- ucts. Other county annuals feature MACMAitems as part of their meal and many offer a variety of products as door prizes or through gift certificates. Use this opportunity to ask your MACMAcoor- dinator about your county's Direct Marketing program and enjoy the great taste of Michigan! Magnavox AM/FM Stereo Radio-Cassette Player with Headset Features auto reverse and three-band graphic equalizer. Model AQS97BK Family Saver Delivered Price $47.99 Retail $75 Tote Vision 5-inch Color Television/Monitor Features AC/DC power. Retractable carrying handle. Model CT6000 Family Saver Delivered Price $205 Retail $260 Tote Vision 12-inch Portable Television-Radio Combination Features black'and white television with slide control tuning and built-in AM/FM radio. AC/DC power. Model HY720S. Family Saver Delivered Price $84.99 Retail $130 Please allow 2-3 weeks delivery SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER MONEY BACK GUARANTEE Jewelry catalog available for $5.00 L&V Mercantile +---------------------------------- A Publication of the Michigan Farm Bureau Volume 8 Number 10 October 1989 duction of the Fanners "Adequate resources continue 1988 State Study Petroleum Propane Division, and to be available for the Public Af- Committee Report a common logo indentification for all companies," said Charles fairs Division to be effective in the legislative/regulatOlY arenas. Implementation Burkett, Michigan Fann Bureau Recently, the legislative research Administrative Director. and communications specialist Underway 'When MFB State Study Com- position was filled by Vicki mittee Chairperson Polly Diehl, Pontz, a former regional repre- When county Fann Bureau of Ingham County, told the 1988 MFB annual meeting delegates sentative," Burkett said. Although no specific new delegates to last year's MFB an- that the recommendations would programs have been developed to nual meeting approved the take varying lengths of time to ac- increase the involvement of as- recommendations of the 1988 complish, she was right on tar- sociate members in the policy ex- State Study Committee, they set get," said Burkett. "Some ecution process, currently in motion a five-year plan for ser- recommendations must wait for associate members are kept in- vice, stability and action through- implementation until funds be- formed of issues which affect out the Michigan Farm Bureau come available. Others will be them, as well as regular mem- Family of Companies. Using the phased in as organizational bers' through Rural Living and report recommendations and structure and expertise develops FB's news media services. As- forecast data collected, the MFB to support them. sociate members can use this in- board members set goals for ''The committee's central goal formation to communicate with achievement by 1995. was to develop recommendations legislators and other public offi- ''The organization's drive to im- . to maintain Michigan Fann cials. plement the report is proving suc- Bureau as a financially sound or- Implementation of the new cessful with establishment of ganization, one which is logo by the Information and division status for commodity dynamic, attractive to members Public Relations Division con- and research activities, increased and recognized as a leader for tinues, with a new county sign video services, an added legisla- the industry," he said. adopted and displayed at the tive research and communica- recent MSU Ag Expo and MFB's tions position, increased Summerfest '89. ''The new coun- promotion of the organization, Michigan Farm Bureau ty sign design ties in with in- development of a strategic busi- creased promotion of the ness plan for FB Insurance, intro- Following the state study organization logo through the committee's recommendation, use of billboards, radio and print the Commodity Activities and Re- advertising," said Burkett. search Department was reor- The committee supported the ganized as a separate division - development of separate member with Ken Nye recently named to publications, which became effec- the position of division director. tive in September 1988. The committee felt that, as an -. "In order to serve the needs of operating division, CARDwould regular members for timely increase FB's role in commodity agricultural and organizational activities and that this staff group should be charged with coordinating efforts to bring com- (Continued on next page) modity groups and FB together to work on common issues . the course set by the 1985 legis- lation, and develop a 1990 bill Implementation • that allows more flexibilityin (Continued from previous page) planting intentions, permits farmers to continue to become information and, at the same more market oriented and en- time, keep associate members in- courages us to become an even formed about the agriculture in- greater competitive force in the dustry and how it affects all of world marketplace. our lives, Rural Leader was Farmers have bitten the bullet developed into a 16-page newslet- and adapted to changing eco- ter aimed specifically at regular nomic conditions. They've be- members and Rural Living for come more efficient, developed both associate and regular ingenious management prac- members' benefit. Rural Leader tices, and dealt with the stress of is available at no charge to any producing in an industry that is associate member who would under the careful scrutiny of all like to receive it," Burkett said. of society. ''The program has been in place Now is the time for farmers to for a year now and the feedback enjoy the fruits of their efforts, has been very positive." by having a new farm bill that provides opportunities for a bet- ter marketplace, better prices Speak Up Meeting At- and more profits. tendees Believe in the There is still plenty of time for Current Farm Policy each Farm Bureau member to provide input on the farm bill Direction through the policy development process. Share your ideas with In preparation for the develop- ment of the next farm bill, your county Farm Bureau Policy Development Connnittee. I en- Michigan Farm Bureau held a courage you to voice your opin- series of three speak up meetings ions at your county annual with our members. The meetings meeting. Then, watch your coun- were designed to ask just what it ty policy resolutions become part is that you, as a farmer, would of Michigan Farm Bureau and like to see in the 1990 farm legis- American Farm Bureau Federa- tion policy for the 1990 farm lation. In my opinion, the nearly 400 legislation. farmers who participated in I can assure you that llwe as these meetings resoundingly farmers don't take the respon- agreed that the direction charted sibility to present our case and in the current farm bill is the followthrough with the support right one. They believe the law necessary to achieve our goals, opens up a greater portion of the then other groups interested in the future of agriculture will cer- world market, makes us more competitive agriculturally and al- tainly take over that role for us. lows us to proceed on a market People whose interests center oriented course that gives us the on the environment, animal chance to do what we farmers do rights, conservation and other best: produce agricultural com- areas will not hesitate to speak modities. out and affect the direction of the Our Farm Bureau members 1990 farm bill. Let's make sure admitted that the 1985 farm bill that farmers keep control of the was expensive but, in the final steering wheel, to guarantee analysis, it provided an oppor- farm legislation that's ap- tunity for the United States to propriate for the future growth of strengthen its agriculture. It also our industry. In order to meet the commit- put our farming industry in a tee's recommendation that the more independent and self-sup- division increase its use of video porting position than we have as a means to communicate with been for many years. and educate members, the addi- Where do we go from here? Jack Laurie, President tion of a staff person and the The farmers at the speak up ses- Michigan Farm Bureau subsequent ability to increase sions said we should continue on video production has taken place. .------------------------ FB management is developing a plan to initiate a Health In- surance Department in the Field Operations Division sometime after 1990. Emphasis on the Community Action Group pro- gram remains high, with resour- ces directed towards increasing the active participation of these groups in the total organization. In regard to the committee's recommendation that steps be taken to equip county leaders with management skills to con- duct membership campaigns, in- crease membership production by FB Insurance agents, and streamline and automate the renewal billing program, Burkett said "Effective October 1, Farm Bureau General Auto insurance will have a membership require- ment for all new policyholders. Farm Bureau Insurance A cooperative advertising cam- The renewal billing system is paign sponsored by Michigan streamlined for 1990, moving the A new corporate plan was Farm Bureau and county FBs dues notice mailing workload presented to the FB Insurance around the state was responsible board of directors in February. for 50 billboards which were from the county Farm Bureaus The document, A New Venture - placed along major Michigan to Michigan Farm Bureau." Building on Tradition, offered the roads during February and On the county level, Burkett following recommendations March. The campaign was said a number of counties have based on the MFB State Study designed to increase recognition entered into a formal office opera- Committee recommendations: of the new FB logo and theme: tion during the past six months. • Structural, philosophical Where Belonging Makes a Dif- For example, Charlevoix and and operational changes re- ference. Antrim counties moved into an agent office and share a county quired to successfully implement secretary. Gladwin County ex- the plan and provide additional pects to move into an area ser- needed revenue were identified. vice office in West Branch, • Farm Bureau General will be located in Ogemaw County, on utilized for business written in Jan. 1. Missaukee and Wexford suburban markets. are considering a merger, which • The corporate plan and mis- was to be voted on during their sion statements will be reviewed county annual meetings in Sep- and rewritten as necessary. tember. • Requirement of a FB mem- ''To improve the coordination bership for each new Farm of programs and selVices, the Bureau General Auto insurance state study committee recom- application beginning in late mended that a committee be 1989. formed in each county. The mem- • Additional office placement bers of the committee would con- and functionality will comple- sist of the agency manager, ment county offices. county president, county These recommendations were secretary / office manager, and accepted by the FB Insurance the regional representative, said II board of directors with the re- Burkett. "Anumber of counties quest to provide detailed im- have agreed to begin meeting on plementation plans later in the a regular basis starting this past year. While those plans were Saginaw County's FB In- September 1. Staff will make an being developed, FB Insurance surance agentforce recently wel- effort to encourage all office coun- participated in the March comed Scott Thomas. Scott was ties to meet monthly during the Cabinet Meetings with MFB among the members. staff and 1990 fiscal year." county leadership throughout volunteer leaders at the county's the state. The Cabinet Meetings Open House celebration at the provided an overview of the new new o.fftce location. corporate plan and direction. +-------------------------- --------------------------------. FB Insurance is now deve10p- Mitchell Named to 1ngbudget recommendations through 1993 constructed to fol- MDA Director's Post low through on the approved im- p1ementation plans. FB Insur- The Michigan Commission of I ance is also currently working with the Michigan Insurance Agriculture appointed a new director for the Michigan Depart- Bureau to develop a program re- ment ofAgriculture (MDA)on quiring FB memberships with all Aug. 30. He is,Robert Mitchell, new auto insurance applications. Within eight months after who has served as chief deputy director of the Michigan Depart- I membership approval of the MFB ment of Transportation for the State Study Committee recom- mendations, FB Insurance's new past six years. He replaces Paul corporate plan, A New Venture - Kindinger, who resigned to ac- cept a post with the U. S. Depart- Building on n-adition, was ap- proved in detail and is being im- ment ofAgriculture in Wash- plemented. Full implementation ington' D.C. is expected to take four to five 'We believe Mr. Mitchell's ad- ministrative experience will cer- years. Charles Burkett tainly be beneficial as he carries out his responsibilities as head able to take advantage of these of the large, complex MDA,"said new benefits. Michigan Farm Bureau President Other state study committee Jack Laurie. "His leadership in recommendations directed to administering the laws and FPC, Inc., and Subsidiary are regulations that affect agricul- being reviewed. Action plans will ture will have a great impact on be developed and implemented, the future of our industry. where feasible, under the new Agriculture faces many challen- leadership of John Feland. ges in the 1990s and we look for- In early August, Farmers ward to working with the new Petroleum, Inc., and Farmers director in addressing those chal- Crude Production Co., were lenges." placed under the leadership of ) Feland, who replaced FPC's retir- ing Chief Executive Officer Richard Krueger. ! A Look Ahead John Feland ''This is only a partial review of changes already underway," said Farmers Petroleum Burkett. ''The staff of Michigan Cooperative, Inc. Farm Bureau met in April for an intensive two-day planning ses- Since the recommendations by sion. During that time, they the MFB State Study Committee looked at the 1995 goals ap- were approved by the delegates proved by the board and at the 1988 MFB annual meet- generated ideas to accomplish ing, FPC has introduced a new, those goals. The board -adopted cost -efficient and versa tile those objectives in June and now product to its fuel business -- the objectives will be assigned to propane. the appropriate MFB divisions and plans for implementation Robert Mitchell Several member-only benefits are now being offered to MFB devised. members in the Thumb Region "The affiliate companies use a Prior to join1ng the transporta- including free propane tank rent- similar method to make their tion department in 1983, al for three years or, if the mem- plans," Burkett said. "But, it is Mitchell was a management and ber owns a tank, they will receive not just making the plans, it is marketing consultant to private three years of free MFBmember- the desire to carty them out that and public sector clients. From ship. As future propane districts makes the Michigan Farm 1977 to 1979, he served as state are developed in the state by Bureau Family of Companies director of Farmers Home Ad- FPC, more MFB members will be what it is -- a recognized leader ministration. for the industry." -----------------------------,+ +---------------------------------- October Discussion Topic: Proposal A A proposal to increase the sales/use taxfrom 4 cents School Finance to 41/2 cents per dollar and constitutionally dedicate funds for local schools. Arter years of debating the com- The proposed constitutional amendment would: plex school finance issue, the 1. Constitutionally dedicate to schools: Legislature finally agreed to have a. 1/2 cent increase in sales/use tax; the voters decide the issue. Con- stitutional Proposals A and B will b. Current statutory revenue sources, including lot- appear on the Nov. 7 ballot. tery profits and some cigarette/liquor taxes. Each proposal would generate c. Increased share of existing sales/use tax (51 per- about 400 m1ll1onnew dollars for cent to 58 percent) to substantially replace annual schools. school appropriation; The purpose of Proposals A and B is to provide additional 2. Distribute dedicated funds to school districts as money for quality education provided by law. programs and reduce the spend- 3. Activate increased statutory penalty to deny 100 ing gap between the lower and percent of state funds to schools not adopting core cur- higher spending districts. riculum and improvement plans. Proposal A Should this proposal be adopted? Increases the sales tax III cent (4 percent to 4112percent) and raises $400 million. The in- creased revenue will be used to increase the state aid formula The Choice is and create new school quality programs. Grants will be made for several programs such as stu- Yours - Nov. 7 dent improvement, achievement incentives. math and science, Proposal B drop-out prevention, low-income program. pre-school, etc. For the A proposal to increase the sales/use taxfrom 4 cents 1990-91 school year, the per mill to 6 cents per dollar, reduce school property taxes, set guarantee would be raised from permanent school operating millag~s not subject to $83.61 a mill to $94.55 which voter renewal and constitutionally dedicate funds for would raise the per pupil state aid for a 32 mill district from local schools. $2,985.52 to $3,335.60 -- a per The proposed constitutional amendment would: pupil increase of $350. 1. Constitutionally dedicate to schools: There is no property tax reduc- a. 2 cent increase in sales/use tax; tion except that additional state b. Current statutory revenue sources, including lot- aid may reduce the need for voting more millage. tery profits and some cigarette/liquor taxes. c. Increased share of existlng sales/use tax (51 per- cent to 75 percent) to substantially replace annual Proposal B school appropriation. Increases the sales tax 2 cents 2. Reduce property taxes in most school districts. (4 percent to 6 percent) and Replace school taxes with permanent statewide millage raises $1.6 billion. The revenue (9-mills on residentialfann; 14-mills on businesses) from 1;2 cent of the increase will plus non-voted local millage not subject to voter be used for schools and the revenue from the other 1112cents rollback. Limit voter approved increases to 4-mills. will be used for school property 3. Set per-pupil funding guarantees subject to change tax relief. by law requiring 2/3 vote. The proposal also creates tax 4. Activate increased statutory penalty to deny all base sharing by imposing a 14 non-guaranteed statejunds to schools not adopting mill statewide property tax on business property and a 9 mill core curriculum and improvement plans. statewide property tax on Should this proposal be adopted? -------------------------------------. residential and fann property Provides an exemption from Discussion Questions: and cut timber. sales tax on electricity and heat- This would result in an ing fuel for those with a house- 1)Is your school district cur- average overall reduction of hold income of 150 percent rently in formual? school operating property taxes below the poverty level. 2) Are group members willing of 12.7 mills on residential. fann Expands the Homestead to pay increased sales tax to be and cut timber and a 7.7 mill Property Tax credit for low in- used for school funding? reduction for business. The come senior citizens and renters. 3) Which tax proposal will be average school millage would be Both Proposals A and B will re- the best for your school district? 21.1 mills. All schools would quire a core curriculum, school 4) Which tax structure is the receive an increase of $250 to improvement plans, school ac- best for members in your group? $350 per pupil the first year. creditation and annual report to 5) Optional: Please indicate for Each school district would the community. a "Michigan Farm Bureau straw have a local foundation millage There are three ways to vote poll" which way your group mem- of at least 8 mills as determined on Nov. 7. A No vote leaves bers intend to vote on the tax by a formula. This 8 mills plus school finance as it is at present. proposals. the state 9 mills would be a total A Yes vote on A increases the of 17 mills (22 mills for busi- sales tax 11.2 cent per dollar to be ness). The 8 mills will be equal- used only for school aid and ized at $105 per mill. Districts could vote no more than an addi- quality programs. A Yes vote on B increases the sales tax 2 cents ------~------ tional 4 mills. Provides a basic per dollar.to be used for school per pupil grant to all districts aid and property tax reduction. ($2.700 in most cases). A three- tier formula provides additional aid. The formula setting the foun- dation millage is rather compli- cated. Basically $3.540 per pupil is the spending target for equal- How to figure your tax ization. Districts with less than $3. 190'will receive a $350 per e1TectunderProposalB: pupil increase. Those greater than $3.190 will receive an in- 1. Your annual income. crease of between $250 and 2. Number in family. $350. 3. Assessed value of your property (50 percent ac- The degree of property tax tual value). reduction will vary depending on 4. Present property tax (assessed value times total the millage required to reach the 1990-91 per pupil spending tar- mils). One mill is $1 per $1,000 valuation. get of $3,540. 5. Check with school to find present school millage A few districts currently have and the amount of expected millage reduction. a very low millage rate and will 6. Figure your property tax reduction. see a property tax increase. 7. Figure your Michigan Homestead Property Tax Millage cuts will not be avail- able to other units of government credit under the present total property tax and also because Proposal B does not with tax cut (60 percent of the difference between 3112 allow the use of the reduced u percent of your household income and your total school millage for that purpose. property tax is refunded up to $1,200. One hundred percent of the difference for those over age 65). Other lriformation to 8. If you are in P.A. 116, figure your refund both Consider ways and determine its effect (all of the property tax over 7 percent of household income is refundable). Property taxes are deductible 9. Figure additional 2 percent sales tax cost. Two from the federal income tax, while sales taxes are not. This percent sales tax increase for a family of 4 would be would affect those who itemize. about $96 on $10,000 income: $228 on $30,000: Presently 38.7 percent of $308 on $50,000 .. school funding comes from the 10. Determine any effect on your state and federal state and 61.3 percent from local income tax and social security tax. property taxes. Under Proposal B, state funding would reach 77.3 percent with 22.7 percent from the local property taxes. -------------------------+ +------------------------- July Discussion Topic CAGmembers listed the follow- events, and Agriculture in the Responses: ing as appropriate activities for Classroom. Many serve as mem- their county Farm Bureau with bers of FB boards and commit- regard to the animal welfare tees. Animal Welfare issue: Promote Jarm tours through In the community, one third of the CAGmembers are active in and Research tours and media news releases. local zoning issues, blood drives Have spokespeople available and service/recreational ac- A majority of the CAGs (66 per- to address the issue. Keep members inJormed on cur- tivities, e.g., Special Olympics, cancer research fundraising, his- cent) reported that they have not rent animal care laws and pend- torical society and 4-H. experienced negative reaction in ing legislation. More than 75 percent of the their community regarding the groups are comprised of mem- care and welfare of animals. bers over 54 years of age. Over When group members were half of the CAGs have been in ex- asked how fanners could present a better picture of modern ------~------ istence for more than 30 years. Group size varies from six to 10 agriculture, they responded: members but may be as many as Invite groups and schools Jor 16 to 20 people. Average group tours so they can see how Jarm CAG SUrvey Completed size is 11 to 15 people. operations work and lww animals are treated, Jed and cared Jor. Boasting a high 46 percent Have animals at mall displays with someone available to response rate, the recently com- pleted Community Action Group ------~------ answer questions about their han- survey offers valuable informa- dling. tion to program manager Rebec- Teach children to be kind and ca Jeppesen for determining Southeast Regional considerate oj animals. direction and activities. Report any abuse you see. Surveys were mailed to 520 Representative Ap- A strong majority (82 percent) CAGs in May. Questions ranged pointed agree that public reaction to from the use of the monthly dis- negative information about cussion topic materials to the animal agriculture will affect per- average age of the members in Scott D. Everett, a 1989 ception about agriculture in the group. Agricultural Communications general. Results from the respondents graduate of Michigan State show that CAGs are using a University, joined the Michigan variety of MFB materials to guide Farm Bureau staff Aug. 21. their discussion including the While attending MSU, Everett Rural Living and Rural Leader served a professional internship publications, discussion tapes, with the MFB Information and outside speakers and the new Public Relations Division and an Rural Spotlight video magazine. internship in the MSUAgricul- Groups named No to More ture and Natural Resources Infor- Taxes, Wildlife Crop Damage, Es- mation Services. His leadership tate Planning and Zoning as experience at the university in- topics discussed in 1988-89 as cluded involvement as president the most informative and inter- of the MSU chapter of the Nation- esting. Suggestions for future al Agri-Marketing Association topics included school finance and Agricultural Communicators proposals (see page 23 of this of Tomorrow, and director of the issue), waste management, and National Agri-Marketing project. farm chemicals. He was the 1988 winner of the Survey responses also MSUANR speaking contest. reported good CAGinvolvement He was raised on an Eaton in FB and community service. County fann. Highest is the county annual meeting attended by 75 percent of the groups responding. CAG members also report involvement in such projects as fair displays, ------~------ mall displays, rural urban day +---------------------------------- ---------------------------------+ Anticipating widespread par- Laurie, president of the MFBaf- Holiday Sale ticipation in this popular sale, filiate, reported that MFB Group Plans Undenvay county coordinators remind members that ordering informa- Purchasing's position is that Michigan has a viable program tion can be obtained by calling for steel sales. 'We intend to County conunittees have their county FB officeor MACMA make every effort to keep the pro- begun promotion for the MACMA at (800) 292-2680, Ext. 2305. gram in place as long as it Holiday Sale. Last year's ex- Order deadline is Nov. 15, with provides an economic service to panded line of frozen fruits and delivenes scheduled for Dec. 4- members. There are oppor- vegetables will again be avail- 15. tunities to expand the program able, as well as several new on our own as MFB Group Pur- products. chasing," he said. He added that the Winter Steel Cherry pecan and apple plum sausage will be packaged together in a variety box as well ------~------ Sale will go ahead as planned and that procedurally it will be as white brats and German "business as usual." The same brats. Wisconsin cheese wheels, purchase, payment and delivery both cheddar and baby Swiss, Winter Steel Sale - policies will apply for vendors are introduced, boxed, ready for Business as Usual! and customers, he said. gift-giving.A new glazed peanut, Honey Krunch, will be ready for holiday snacking. FollOwing a late summer an- Tastefully Michigan Food Samplers will also be included nouncement by the Amencan Farm Bureau Service Company We intend to on the order form. This expanded that it would cease operations of line of Michigan food products the AFBF Safemark program in make every ef- will offer an attractive product early 1990, Michigan members fort to keep the and price range . of the MFB Group Purchas- program tn • Also included on this sale will ing/Safemark Advisory Commit- be MACMAmeats, nuts, and pop- tee met Sept. 7 to review pro- corn, Wisconsin cheeses, juice gram alternatives. place as long as and juice concentrates, and fresh citrus, grown by Florida Farm The conunittee voted unani- mously to support continuation it provides an • Bureau members. of the steel program. Jack economIc ser- vice to members. Laurie said MFBGPmanage- ment has been directed to review program and service alternatives such as working with other states, marketing MFBGP products through MFB's affiliate, Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, or continuing current operations. "It is fundamental in our farm organization to provide needed member services, but we must realize that the economic demand for services by members Champion Summer Sausage Michigan's Best changes and the organization must be flexible. In this case, $14.95 $23.50 needs have changed. As a result, FREE shipping. handling and insurance. we are looking at the best way to align our services with the needs 800-968-4438 of members," said Laurie. Send the great taste of Michigan from Cherry Mustard and MSU Cheese to real Hickory Smoked Hams and Summer Sausage shown above to Steaks and Whitefish Caviar. for more sampler choices call for our free brochure. _ MACM;m Ship Starting Nov. 1st. ------~------ l'lICHIGAN AGRICUIIURAL COOPERATIVE l'lARKETING ASSOCIATION. me. 7373 West Sapnaw Hlahway. Box 30960. l.ansin8. Michlpn 411909-8460 6 1"-------- • with the help of the housing phuis, had recently finished con- Migrant Housing Tour grant program. struction of new housing for "Providing good facilities is their laborers. Wiener presented In late August, the newly gover- just starting to be a matter of a check from the state's share of nor-appointed director of the competition in this state. Grow- the migrant housing grant pro- Michigan Public Health Depart- ers need the migrant laborers gram to each of these farms. The ment Raj Wiener, members of and those growers with the good money helps defray the cost of the Governor's Interagency Com- housing will find it easier to meet construction. mittee on Migrant Affairs and their seasonal labor needs," Kelly The third farm operation, media toured medical facilities said. Moon Lake Orchards, has new and farms along the west side of The tour began at the Sparta facilities under construction. the state. Medical Center, then went on to Kelly described the Moon Lake Michigan Farm Bureau Legis- the Sparta Human Services facilities as "being very nice, lative Counsel Howard Kelly, and Building. Participants of the tour looks like motel." a member of the Interagency were able to meet with staff and Shortly after this tour was con- Committee, participated in the learn about the health care, day ducted, the Michigan Civil Rights tour and thought the day was a care and other programs that are Commission toured another success. available to the migrant laborers labor camp which included a "Personally, I liked the ex- and their families. unit constructed in the past two posure of the fact that there is The afternoon was spent visit- years. good migrant labor housing and ing three representative farm operations, all owned by health care facilities in this state," said Kelly. "Instead of al- Michigan Farm Bureau mem- '7 liked the ex- ways showcasing the worst, we bers. Two of the operations, Muma Farms and Sherwin Kam- posure of the saw what can and is being done :•••••••.••.•....•..••.•....•.....•.••.•.••...•...••........... - fact that there : Be a Part of the 1989 Product Show! is good migrant . • One of the maj or changes to the 70th anniversary of the labor housing Michigan Farm Bureau annual is an expanded product show and display area. Members who have contacted MFB over the and health care past several years only to be denied the chance to participate will have ample opportunity this year. Doug Fleming, coor- facilities in this dinator of the 1989 Product Show, says 'We have moved the 89 product show into the Welsh Auditorium where there will state. " be plenty of space for additional product displays. Members A third tour was made by the who operate a business that might want to display their wares Michigan Agricultural Labor will now have the opportunity to display their products or ser- Commission which visited the vices to the over 1,000 Farm Bureau members who attend the Zelenka Evergreen Nursery, in state annual meeting. II Ottawa County, and they also Members who would like further information on the cost saw a new blueberry picking and availability of booth space could return this form to machine at the farm of Commis- Michigan Farm Bureau or call 1-800-292-2680, extension sioner Sam Carini. 3237. According to Kelly, it is impor- tant to let the Legislature know Reservation Deadline: October 13, 1989 that farmers realize the need for good housing for migrant Company Name workers and the need for the (Please Print) state to continue to fund the Address grant program. ------------------- 'The program is doing a fine job and getting good returns for City State Zip Code the workers, the growers and the Contact Person state. With the matching funds Phone ----------------- requirements unique to the -------------------- Brief description of your product or service _ Michigan program and new fund- ing from FmHA, significant im- provements in migrant housing is a realistic goal," he said. Mall to: Michigan Farm Bureau, Attn: Doug Fleming, 89 Product Show, 7373 w. Saginaw Hwy., Lansing, MI 48917 ------~------ ..•••••.••••.••••.••.............•......••..••.••.......•..••. ~ ----------------------------. --------------------------------+ Many of last year's offerings are still available, some at Farm. reduced prices! To request a broch ure listing all available products (most including FREE Bureau shipping within the continental US), call 1-800-968-4438 . ...Working Together ------~------ Rubbish Bag Bonus Members who requested MACMA's biodegradable trash ORLANDO I FLORIDA bags received a pleasant surprise when they picked up their order from the Frozen Food Express. Instead of the 20 bags expected, 40 bags were packaged for each JANUARY 7-11, 1990 order -- twice the number of rub- bish bags for the same price! MACMA Coordinator Jan Wil- ford said, "These same savings Farm Bureau ... Working Together! will be available to fundraising groups, including county commit- tees looking for extra revenue." For information on the Rub- bish Bag Fundraising program, as well as other fundraiser op- Orlando 19901 annual meeting brochure. A tions, call Wilford at (800) 292- registration form is also included. 2680, ext. 2306. The bags will To request your brochure, continue to be available on Make plans now to travel with write to Farm Bureau Corporate MACMA sales through your coun- the Michigan delegation to the Services, Attn: Meeting and ty Farm Bureau. American Farm Bureau's 71st an- Travel Services, P.O. Box 27549, nual meeting, Jan. 7-11, in Or- Lansing, MI 48909. Be sure to in- lando, Fla. clude your name and address! ------~------ Annual meeting activities are scheduled to begin Jan. 6, with the opening of the Farm and Gratiot Manuf~turer Ranch Expo '90. General ses- ------~------Promotes Com Heat sions are scheduled on Monday and Tuesday. Business sessions, including adoption of national The A-Maiz-Ing heat furnace, policy, will be conducted on Wed- Michigan Sampler manufactured by Ithaca Manu- nesday and Thursday. Evening facturing in Gratiot County, activities include a dance on Direct Ship Program bums shelled com, a renewable Monday night and a "magical" Expands commodity. The furnace feeds recognition and awards program the com into the bottom of a on Tuesday evening. combustion chamber. The resid- Travel options include a Michigan-made brie cheese, ual ash is then spilled over the hotel/ convention package, spe- whitefish caviar, trout, filet mig- top of the combustion ring into cial discount airfares from any non, pecan butterballs, fudgie the ash pan, making the unit vir- Michigan city served by North- cheny sauce ... all have joined the tually self-cleaning. The manu- west Airlines, special rates on product list available through facturers claim that burning rental cars, and sightseeing the MACMATastefully Michigan com eliminates the creosote buil- tours exclusively designed for Direct Ship program . . dup connected with resins MFB members. Special arrangements have burned in wood products. The Get more details about conven- been made with the Michigan furnace has a 14 bushel capacity tion activities and your travel op- Live Stock Exchange to offer and is able to store enough com tions by requesting the AFBF delivery of top quality meat fuel to bum for an average of 10 packs. days. ------------------------------'. Hi-Grade Nut and Bolt ..).t.. FALL SPECIALS! .,:.J LIMITED QUANTITIES! Circle the items you want at these low, low prices. This offer is good through October 31, 1989 FARM BUREAU MEMBER SIZE DESCRIPTION REGULAR PRICE SPECIAL 7/16 x 4 Carriage Bolt Plated 10 pack $ 2.79 7/15 x 1-1/2 " " . 10 pack 1.54 $2.37 1.31 7/16 x 2-1/2 10 pack 2.13 1.81 1/2 x 1-1/2 10 pack 2.00 1.70 3/8 x 5-1/2 10 pack 2.61 2.22 1/4 x 4-1/2 25 pack 2.83 1.69 5/16 x 5 Carriage Bolt 25 pack 4.48 3.81 5/16 x 2 50 pack 3.94 3.35 1-1/8 x 7 Hitch Pins Each 10.00 7.50 1-1/4 x 7 Each 12.00 9.00 3/8-16 x 2-3/4 Gr. 5 Hx Bolt w nylon lock patch 25 pack 2.25 5/8-18 x 7-1/2 SAE Gr. 5 Bolt Each 1.74 .87 1/2-13 x 4-1/2 USS Gr. 5 Bolt 8 pack 2.93 2.49 1/2-13 x 1-1/4 10 pack 1.90 1.52 1-8 x 3-1/2 Gr. 5 Bolt,Zinc Each 1.87 1.45 3/4-10 x 8-1/2 Each 3.50 1.75 1-8 x 4 Each 3.15 1.58 1-8 x 6 Each 4.50 2.25 7/16-14 x 1-1/4 Gr. 8 Bolt 10 pack 2.20 1.10 1/4 x 1 Hx Lag Screw Zinc Plate per 100 2.84 1.42 1/4 x 2 " " " per 100 4.54 2.27 3/8 x 1-1/2 per 100 8.69 4.35 1/2-13 x 9 USS Gr. 2 Bolt Plain Each .90 .50 7/16-14 x 1-3/4 USS Gr. 5 Bolt 10 pack 1.59 1.27 5/8-11 x 1-314 5 pack 1.66 1.33 1/2-13 x 5-1/2 5 pack 2.88 2.30 1/4-10 x 1-1/4 40 pack 1.03 7/8-9 x 8 Each 3.38 1.69 3/4-10 x 2 FIt.Hd. Bolt,Zinc 5 pack 2.08 1.00 1/1-4-12 x 2-1/2 SAE Gr. 5 Bolt Each 3.00 1.50 7/8-9 USS Hex Nuts Each .28 .15 1-8 USS Heavy Hex Nut Each .88 .30 7/8-14 SAE Hex Nut Each .35 .20 #8 Lockwasher 250 pack 1.85 .90 (3/16) #10 Lockwasher 250 pack 2.38 1.00 r-----------~---------------------------------- Return the entire lonn with your check. Check must accompany order. Please make checka peyable to: Hi-Gr.te Nut & Bolt Company Send your order to: SHIPPING INFORMATION -PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY H1-GRADE NUT & BOLT COMPANY 1490 Maplelswn, S.W. Wyoming, Mlchlg,n 49509 CorTl>lete Name ORDER TOTAL Telephone: (616) 538-9900 Col'll>lete Address C~y $---- Icertify that the goods purchased are for farm use only and axel'll>tfrom alltaxes. State ZpCode Cusklmer's Signaue F.m 8u'eaJ Memberlhlp Number o theCheckregular here you wish to receive if merchandise listand Phone order form. $50.00 or more order with yow check and Hi-Gr8de will pay the UPS charge .. ---------------------------------------------- DEPENDABILI Jim Abplanalp Jack' Alexander Nevin Alexander Joe Davis Darl Daw Jerry DesRochers We have 400 names for it. Pete Phelps Lodner Phillips Rich Piana Roland Sweeney Rita Szynkowski Max Thit Joan Allison Jerry DeVries Lenore Pichler Dale ThUman Hugh Anderson Keith DeZwaan Shawn Pipoly Bernie leeters Marty Anderson Phil Dieck Fred Plamondon Mike lernus Oscar Anderson Jim Dolezal Jaime Jepsen John Kugler Gene Mill Steve Playter Richard Theile lCrry Anderson led Dotts David Jerick Ben Landheer Craig Miller Marlene Pletcher John Thomas Ron Andrews Dan Doucette Dale Johnson Eileen Lange Doug Miller Bill Plunkett Scott Thomas Art Anguiano Jerry Douglas Daryle Johnson Ron Lapland Kevin Miller lCrry Pontz Rich Thompson Peter Apostle Emmett Dovick Ed Johnson James Leonard Mark Millspaugh Mike Pope Carl Tice Jim Armbruster Marty Dumont Mark Johnson Brian Lietzau Jim Milstein Bill Porritt Dex Tiefenthal Fred Arnold Dan Duncan Ed Jonaitis Liz Lighthall Paul Misson John Queen Pat Timiney Ron Artecki Chris Dunckley Bill Jones Ron Lighthall Gordie Moeggenborg Dick Randall Cal Timmer Keith Auten Dorrance Dunham Mary Kartes Dallas Lincoln Jeff Mohney Don Read Charlotte Tinker Linda Badour Jack Dykstra David Katt Kent Lincoln Dan Mohr Dorothy Ream Dick Thbias Susan Bahs Margaret Dziadziola Don Keirn Thdd Lincoln Rusty Moore Eric Reed Jimmie Thibert led Balzer Charlie Elzinga led Kelsch Jim Lint Larry Morgan Nancy Rees Jeff Thole Danny Bates Dan English Paul Kemp Ken Lomax Dick Moulton Gene Reitz Jim Thth Craig Beattie Ray Faber Pat Kennedy Joseph Lopez Larry Neil Don Reyers Wally lhnklein Rod Bebee Michael Fallon Steve Keswick George Lord Robert Nelson Bill Rhode Dwight Ulman Larry Becktel Gary Feerick Bob Keyes Bob Luxmore Todd Nelson Larry Robinson Bill Uminn Hal Beedle Dale Feldpausch Jack Kieft Ray Marske Jeff Neumann Duane Robison Dan Urich David Bellingar Daryl Feldpausch Daryl King Linda Martin Phil Nickerson Mike Rodriguez Dan VanDenBoom Don Bellows Leon Feldpausch Colin Kingsbury Lee Ann Masse Thomas Oatman Gary Rogers Len VanderKolk Noble Bertalon Gary Feneley Kim Klebba Thomas Matthews Ed Oeschger David Rowe Gene VanderWall Marv Best Roger Fessenden Dwayne Klein Jack McAvoy Larry Oldford Marty Rudlaff Dale VanFleet Leon Bigelow Wayne Fish Kevin Klemet Jerry McBride Keith Oldham Rick Rudrow Brad VanHaitsma r