ICHIGA F^IFl 5 NO. 6 SERVING OVER 61,000 FARM BUREAU FAMILIES J U L Y 1, 1976 / am America and America is Me For those whose eyes shall never see, We'll always fight for freedom, our spirit will For all you are, or ever will be, America I speak for thee. not die. America I speak for thee. Of countries distant, and lands afar, Your wealth of beauty reigns supreme, None freer than you are. For all the troubled times we see, For each and every human-being. You shelter the homeless, feed the poor, America I speak for thee. It's America the Great I As you can see, And protect the helpless who knock at your Your people are many, every race, every hue, door. Problems that they face are really not that I'm America and America is Mel few. For all the peaceful nights there be, America I speak for thee. The Energy Crisis and inflation, these are only BY GARY JOHNSON As brothers of the world, we walk hand in hand, two, So strong is our nation, no mightier land. But with the beginning of each new day we (Editor's Note: Gary Johnson was the 5th place winner in Farm No ocean is too deep, no mountain is too high, stive to work them through. Bureau Insurance Group's an- nual "America and Me" essay contest. His was one of 6,000 Bicentennial Special essays from 318 Michigan schools which were submitted for the contest.) PAGE 2 MICHIGAN F A R M NEWS J U L Y 1, 1976 ^7*** t&e*De&6*£ WANTED: 700 Members As of this date, there are about 700 members needed to ac- D0NNA Back when I was just a hieve the 1976 goal of 61,586 members which is an increase of child in Farm Bureau, my one over last years membership. Michigan Farm Bureau has supervisor told me never to mailed letters to all unpaid regular members requesting that get the idea that I was in- they renew. Community Groups and Insurance Agents have dispensable. She illustrated been asked to make a special attempt to sign new members. this by saying that if you put Membership involvement in Farm Bureau has helped to your arm in a bucket of build the largest and most influential farm organization in water, the "hole" that Michigan and in the nation. This has helped the organization remains after you remove assist you, the member, by providing legislative and economic your arm would be the same benefits. size as the void I would leave What's Ahead in our Nation's Third Century? if I decided to go elsewhere to No one can predict what challenges lie ahead. Whatever earn my livelihood. they may be -- Farm Bureau will help farmers face them with What she really meant was *?6 'Pie&ideKt strength and confidence. One issue we are currently working that, in Farm Bureau, when on is Estate Tax Reform to help keep family farms from someone leaves - the having to be sold to pay "death taxes". Another is the banning organization doesn't fall (The following are excerpts from President Smith's testimony at of throwaway, no-deposit bottles and cans which cause so apart at the seams. Some the Michigan Department of Agriculture public hearing to adopt the much damage to farm equipment and animals, in addition to "back-up" person, even regulation reducing permissible tolerance for PBB, held on June 10.) though less talented or creating unsightly litter. There will be many other third century issues in which a strong Farm Bureau is needed. knowledgeable than the "NO R/SKS"--NO FOOD Continued Strength is Needed person who left, will somehow or other get the job done until The Scientific Advisory Panel, appointed by Governor In order to maintain the influence and respect of the a replacement is found. Milliken to study the PBB situation in Michigan, gave its organization, it must continue to grow and attract new Such is the case with this report on May 24, 1976. members. Michigan Farm Bureau has grown impressively for issue of the FARM NEWS. Farmers disagree with the recommendations m a d e by the past eight years. The promise of future growth is bright The job of editing this issue with new economic services such as the Safemark Tire and has fallen on the inadequate that group. They did so, not out of self-interest or con- shoulders of Yours Truly and cern for any particular farmer, but out of concern for the Battery Program, being developed. This year is a critical year for our membership effort. my partner, Marcia Ditchie. I total agricultural industry and concern for the consumer. explain this so you will be The Governor's Scientific Panel reported, "No specific compassionate in your evaluation and patient in your disease or symptomology in animals or man can presently be associated with exposure to low levels of PBB." Despite this finding, the panel still decided and uicetiteiuital anticipation for the "real thing" to take over. Our ex-editor, Jim Phillips, recommended that the tolerance level be lowered to was a good Mormon, a five parts per billion for meat and eggs and one part per Agriquotes . . . shining example for all billion for milk. This could result in hundreds of animals brands of Christians. I Agriculture is the most Plough deep while slug- wonder now about his power. being quarantined even though only a single animal has healthy, the most useful, and gards sleep and you shall have any PBB in its system. the most noble employment of corn to sell and keep — Benja- . . t h e water in the bucket Man — George Washington. min Franklin in Poor Richard's from which he removed his According to a recent issue of Michigan Science in Almanac. arm is still parted. . . Action, over $ 1 5 0 , 0 0 0 dollars worth of research on the effect of PBB on various types of livestock and livestock products has been carried on in the experiment facilities of Michigan State University. While the panel Mrs. Asparagus Visits Capitol acknowledges this work has been done, it chose to disregard that research in making its recommendations. It is amazing that the panel chose to disregard, to such a large extent, work done by the Michigan State University Experiment Station and Pesticide Research Center. These two institutions a r e nationally k n o w n and respected for objectivity, accuracy and leadership. Yet, the panel makes no mention that MSU's tests show PBB to be less toxic than many other substances commonly used as insecticides, both in agriculture and in urban and suburban households. Based on the criteria of, is this regulation necessary, practical and defendable, farmers in Michigan believe the answer to each question is "NO". They see feed being produced containing no PBB. They see milk being tested consistently with no traces of PBB. They hear a distinguished panel of experts report to the Governor that there is no immediate health hazard to either humans or animals. They see a testing program which would be extremely costly, difficult to administer and apparently unenforceable. Farmers don't believe these conditions lead to a sound regulation. Farmers see this as an attempt to capitalize on emotion, fear and distrust, rather than the logic that is necessary for sound judgment needed in legislative ASPARAGUS QUEEN Joan Che ever in her "royal coach," driven by Al Van Bergen. matters. The belief of farmers is best summarized by Dr. Sylvan Wittwer, Director of the Michigan State University In keeping with the distributing brochures and the team of matched paints Agricultural Experiment Station. He is quoted as saying, Bicentennial spirit, Mrs. fresh asparagus to interested which pulled the buggy. The Asparagus ~ Joan Cheever of onlookers. VanBergens are asparagus "There is an increasing demand for absolute safety in Oceana County - came to the The group came to Lansing growers and members of the food and there is no such thing as absolute safety when state Capitol in Lansing May Oceana County Farm to promote asparagus grown it comes to food." 25 by horse and buggy to and processed in Michigan Bureau. As long as there is a demand for more food, and at present Governor Milliken and also to spread the word The Asparagus Queen is a low cost to the consumer, ways will be tried to meet that with a basket of asparagus. about the National Asparagus CPA, currently employed as demand. These will include risks. The cost of "no risks" ~ Prior to visiting the Festival held in Oceana head accountant at Mercy Governor, Mrs. Cheever and County June 11-12-13. Hospital in Muskegon. Her is little or no food, high prices and dissatisfied con- other area residents from Mrs. Asparagus was husband, Jack, is a partner in sumers! Oceana County paraded escorted by Mr. and Mrs. Al an agricultural chemical firm Elton R. Smith through downtown Lansing VanBergen of Hart, owners of in Shelby. .... 1. 1 ... JULY 1, 1976 MICHIGAN FARM~NEWS PAGE 3. Doctors,/Scientists, Farmers Oppose Lowering of PBB Tolerance level A lack' of scientific place through disposal and these animals could contain evidence to justify lowering quarantine of livestock with low levels of t:'BB's despite tolerance levels of PBS, high level PBS.Feed has b..een former attempts to prevent was cited at a Mich igan free of PBS for over. a year. contamination. In other Department of Agriculture He pointed out the decision words, the complete hearing held in lansing. The of th~ Federal Food anq Drug elimination of PBa's in the proposed regulation to lower Admi'ni ..strati.on (FDA) to. Michigan form environment the tolerance level was a maintain current guidelines. is presently not possible." resu It of the recommendation A more stricJ law would put In addition, the reliability of the Governor's Scientific Michigan farmers at a of tests at levels dictated by Panel which reported on May competitive disadvantage the ~anel is a. maior' concern. 24. with farmers in other states. Addressing this subject, Dr. Elton R. Smith, President of "If lowering the tolerance Jerry A. Burke stated that to the Michigan Farm Bureau, level is proposed to protect remove an item from the . joined' many doctors, consu mers, then where market place,. both the scientists and farmers in should food, meat and milk amount ,and identity of a opposing lowering of the be tested? Should it be done substance must be proved in tolerance gu ide lines. in retail markets, in court. H~ added, "Very often In his testimony, Smith processing plants, or on the the ability to confirm residue stated, "The lowering of the farm? Does it mean that all identity is the limiting factor ~o/erance level is not food, regardless of point of at the lowest level at which necessary, it is not practical origin, must be tested or just we can assure adequate and it is not defendable. food produced in Michigan? If certainty for regulatory Michigan formers wont to all food is to be tested at the action. SucH is the case with produce clean, wholesome retail level, can it be done in .PSS." food for consumers. But rules terms of manpower and in and regulations must be terms of cost? The same BULLETIN " practical and workable. qu~stion must be asked if the The Michigan Agricultural "The Scientific Panel testing is to be done on the Commission reached a decision on June 22 to maintain the current disregarded much scientific farm .. Must the program be guidelines set by the Federal Food data and came up with a established for. testing all and Drug Administration for PBS EL TON R. SMITH was one of the many farmers who ex- tolerance levels. recommendation inconsistent animals in the state?" Smith pressed their concern about the future of Michigan agriculture with its findings that 'No asked. at the hearing. (MICHIGAN FARMER photo) specific disease or symp- The lowering of tolerance tomology in animals or man level coulfl. be disastrous to can presently be associated Michigan agriculture. It'may with exposure to low levels make necessary a s.tate of PBB'. financed indemnification Smith explained that the program. Formers could not level of PBS in Michigan stand the loss on their own. livestock, is constantly FDA officials testified in decreasing. This has taken opposition to lowering the tolerances. One assured the public that the FDA had in- ~ MICHIGAN cluded a ten-fold safety factor FARM NEWS in establishing present limits. In addition, there is no . ~ Somebody has to tell evidence that Michigan The Michigan FARM NEWS published monthly, on the first day, by the Michigan Farm Bureau Information is residents ar'e consistently consuming meat and milk urban people how important agriculture really is. Division. Publication and Editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing. Michigan 48904. Post Office which contain PBB. Box 960. Telephone, Lansing 485.8121, Extension 228. Subscription price, 65 Where some persons called cents per year. for zero tolerance levels, FDA All of the forces tugging and pulling on agriculture affect Established January 13. 1923. Second. class postage paid at Lansing. Mi. and at officials stated, "Two reasons urban people. too. And that's why we're telling the world. additional mailing offices. make it inappropriate for "Farming is everybody's bread & butter'" 0 The share of EDITORIAL: Editor Donna Wilber; AssociatelEditor Marcia Ditchie; Staff FDA to insist on destruction the .consumer dollar going back to farmers and ranchers Photographer: Marcia Ditchie. of foods that contain any goes dOH'n year a(ter year. And when you compare pay- OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; President, Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, R. detectable amount of PSB's. checks and food prices with 10 or 20 years ago. food con- 1; Vice President, Dean Pridgeon, First, such a policy is not tinues to be olle 01' the best bargaills around.'O So help Montgomery, R.l; Administrative Director, Robert Braden, Lansing; necessary for protection of your peA spread t'he word. wherever you go. Stop in and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Max D. Dean; Secretary. William S. the public health. Second, the pick up a bread & butter bumper sticker. Tell the \\'orld! Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District 1. Arthur source of PBS residues in the Bailey. Schoolcraft; District 2. Dean Pridgeon, Montgomery. R.l; District 3. Michigan food supply has Andrew Jackson, Howell. R.l; District 4, changed. These. residues are Elton R. Smith, Caledonia. R.l; District 5, William Spike. Owosso, R.3; District no longer due to avoidable 6, Jack Laurie. Cass City, R.3; District 7, Robert Rider. Hart. R.l; District 8. contamination of animal feed Larry DeVuyst. Ithaca. R.4; District 9, commercially available in Donald Nugent. Frankfort. R.l; District 10, Richard Wieland. Ellsworth. R-l; Michigan. PBB's are ex- District 11. Franklin Schwiderson. Dafter. tremely stable and persistent DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter chemicals, and have been . Frahm. Frankenmuth; James L. Sayre. Belleville; Lowell Eisenmann, occurring in waste products Blissfield. WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. from livestock and feeding Andrew Jackson, Howell, R.4~ FARM BUREAU YOUNG FAR- areas affected by the original MERS: Tom Atherton. Gaines. contamination incident. POSTMASTER: In using form 3579, The environment of mail to: Michigan Farm News. 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Michigan forms so con- Michigan 48904. taminated will probably remain that way for some FaRm~ time in the future. livestock introduced on these New BUreaU forms would also be exposed to this indirect source of PBB's, and food derived from PAGE 4 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1976 CAPITOL REPORT Robert E. Smith Budget- Taxes-FIFRA -OSHA -PPB - The Legislature is looking Students in Kindergarten diagnosis work on animals, However, it 'has been toward a summer recess would receive 3/4'S of the especially emergency modenuzed and modified to beginning the first week in standard amount, while problems such as PBB. The conform with "FIFRA" July. Major issues now, as students i~ grades 1-3 would rest of the money would be which ~eans, the Federal ~ throughout the year, are receive 1.2 and students in used for equine research. Insecticide, ,Fungicide and Agriculture reports that a budgetary. The Senate has grades 9-12would receive 1.1 SINGLE BUSINESS TAX Rodenticide Act. training manual should be completed work on all of its of the standard amourit. This STUDY For some time, com- available from County budget bills incluQ.ing a particular approach. totals Governor Milliken's Task merical applicators have Extension' offices by controversial K-12 school aid $1,526billion,-which is about Force to study the Single been required to be licensed ~ September or October of 1976 bill. The fact that the $80 million above the Business Tax has held its first and to take t~ts to determine and that d~ing the winter Legislature has extended the Governor's recommendat- meeting. The Task Force is their ability to hand!e these months it is hoped t~t many fiscal year for the state until ions. In the defeated bill, composed 'of businessmen, kinds of chemicals. Under the farmers will attend local October 1, "means that however, the formula was legislators and various state new act,. any person applying meetings and become cer- budgets must be passed for some $110million above the agencies. Farm Bureau is "restricted chemicals" will tified well in advance of the the new ufifth quarter" and Executive Budget. It is represented on the Task be required to be "certified". deadline. Such certification _ the full new budget year. possible that the con- Force. Farmers would be considered will be in effect until 1980. SCHOOLAID troversial K-12 education It. was agreed at the first "private applicators" which OSHA HEARINGS' The Senate has considered budget may not be passed in meeting that a research finn means" a person who uses or A public hearing will be two school aid budget bills. the House before the July would be hired to devise and supervises the use of a held in Lansing on June 29 to The original S.B. 1327which recess. distribute official surveys to pesticide which is classified permit the public to present was defeated, would have MSU-EXTENSION determine the exact effect of for restricted use for pur- their views on propo~ed required school districts to The Michigan State the new tax on Michigan poses of producing an. "general industry rules for spend their money for pur- University Agriculture businesses. agricultur~l commodity on agricultural operations". poses alloca ted in the EXPeriment Station and the It is expected that the Task property owned or rented by Farm Bure~u and ~A will legislation. The -bill finally Cooperative Ext~nsion Force will submit a final that person or his employer testify. passed in the Senate is S.B. Service have each received report to Governor Milliken or if applied without com- Out of the some 60 or more 1473, which eliminates that about $1.7 million. One ex- by September 30. pensation, other than trading industrial rules, only parts of issue and would provide a. tremely important ap- As soon as the survey is of personal services between two were finally recom- standard student allocation of propriation still u~der con- finished, public hearings will producers of agricultural mended for possible ap- $1,115in state and local funds sideration is $475,000for the be held to give every person commodities, on the property plication. to agriculture. This provided a district" levies 'n School of Veterinary interested an opportunity to of another person." is due to the excellent work of mills. Districts would receive Medicine at M.S.U. Of this have their views and in- The bill provides optional the Agricultural Advisory that amount for those in amount, $300,000 is for a formation considered. methods of meeting cer- Committee which included grades 4-8 and for adult 'and diagnostic laboratory to PRO PER TY TAX tification requirements for farmer representation and M. special education programs. conduct research and REVISION private- applicators, which. J. Buschlen of MASA. The Governor's Advisory includ~ farmers. One of the One of the proposed rules ~Task Force on Property Tax following options must be involves fork-lift trucks used Revision has.set seven dates complied with:. by some farmers. The other is for public hearings on its (a) Self study "and "head protection equipment interim report, due "in early examination for agricultural operations". July. The report will present (b) Classroom training and This includes protective alternatives to the present examination helmets such as hard hats. It property tax system and (c) An oral fact-finding is proposed that such review effectiveness of intervjew administered by an protective gear be used in assessments, equalization, authorized representative of places where there may be appeals and tax relief the Director when a person is fall~ng or flying objects or programs. The task force is unable to demonstrate during construction in store studying proposals to competence by examination houses, etc. One question equalize local governments' or classroom training. raised by one farmer was ability to provide services The Michigan Department whether a cow's tail would be and examining the tax's of Agriculture and the considered a "flying object". relationship to equal Extension Service already PBB LEGISLATION education opportunities. have materials prepared to Information on the official Hearing dates are: 1 pm assis t in the .necessary hearing on PBB tolerances INTEREST ON DEBENTURES 5-10-15 year maturity Monday July 12 in the House training for farmers to meet held on June 10 are reported Chambers, Lansing; 10 am the" c e r t i f i cat ion elsewhere in this issue. Friday, July 16 University requirements. As a practical There have been numerous 8% 5 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase Center,. Marquette; 1 pm' matter, it is expected to be bills introduced in the Friday, July 30Gaylord ~tate reasonably easy to become Legisla ture over a long .8~% 10 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase Bank, Gaylord; 10 am certified. It should be period of time on the PBB Friday, August 13 Detroit remembered that the law problem. Those presently 9% 15 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase City-County Building's 13th requiring certification ap- before the Legislature in- floor auditorium; 9 am plies only to "restricted use clude H.B. 5846, which was 8~% 10 Year Maturity $1,000.00 Minimum Purchase Wednesday, August 25 Grand pesticides" that are so introduced early in the year. Rapids City Hall Commission classified by EP A. EPA _is It was reported out of com- 9%% 15 Year Maturity $5,OOQ.OO Minimum Purchase Chambers; 1 pm Tuesday, _s till in the process of mittee early in February and August 31 Fine Arts Building classification and there are has been on the House Interest paid annually on September 1st. The purchaser to of Delta College near Bay presently "no restricted calendar since then. It has be offered the option to receive their interest in quarterly City ; 9: 30 am T~ursd.a¥ ' pes tic ide.s ' , . The also been substituted. T~e bill payments on September 1st, December 1st,March 1st,and September 9 Lansmg CIVIC classification IS expected to creates a loan authonty to June 1st. Interest would start the date of purchase. Center, Lansing. be completed by April 1m. provide low cost loans. There This isneither an offer to sellnor a solicitationto buy these Anyone may receive a copy The federal regulation were two other bills in- securities.The offering is made only by the prospectus. of the report by writing to deadline for certification of troduced to pay the cost. One, Task Force on Property Tax farmers is October 1977. H.B. 5792,would have added a ---------------------------. Revision, Department of There are certain pesticides, 4 percent tax on insurance Clip and mall this coupon to: F.rmC--Fftt Management and Budget, however, under Michigan and the other, H.B. 5794, ~;~~.B~.r:~r~~~YICeS, Ine. FaRmi1 Office of Revenue 'and Tax regulation (Reg. 633)that are would add a 4 percent tax on Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, Inc. BUreaU Analysis, Lewis Cass limited in use. As far as feed and 1 percent on certain P. O. BoxMichigan unsing, 960 48904 FNlMIUlUU8SMC:a1NC FARMERS P£TROI.EU>ot Building, Lansing, 48913. farmers are concerned, these chemicals. This method of NEW PESTICIDE ACT are limited to some of the financing the loan authority ~e:~u~I~~k:g:n~~py of-the prospectus and a call by a regis- H.B. 5310is now law and is lead arsenics. It should also would have fallen directly on Name _ known as the "Pesticide be remembered that aldrin, agriculture. Road RFD No. _ Control Act." It is, in reality, dieldrin and DDT have been The other bill presently on City _ _County _ an uP-dating of the Michigan "cancelled". However, the House calendar is H.~. Phone _ Pesticide Law that has been present stocks can be used. 6144, which in its present ---------------------------- in effect for some years. The Department of (Continuedon Page 15) JULY 1, 1976 ,MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 5 IATIOIAL IOTES Legislation to reform the tax exemptions into credits, Estate Taxes A new tax feature and Albert -A. Almy To qualify for this ap- \, federal estate tax has been revise the marital deduction, perhaps the most con- praisal, certain conditions reported upon in this column provide for a form of optional troversial feature of the bill must be met. These con- for several consecutive months. Farm Bureau' has capital gains tax at death, extend. time for estate tax covers appreciation property left in an estate. of ditions include transfer of the property to a qualified family I\ given strong support to the payment and allow farmland Heirs to the estate would have heir and the land must be Ways and M~ns Committee Burleson Bill - H.R. 1793 - to be assessed for estate a choice of paying a tax used or held for use as a farm had not completed its work on which has been introduced by purposes on its farming ranging from 5 to 20 percent for 5 of the last. 8 years prior this important issue of over 130 Congressmen: This value. on the appreciated value of to the decedent's death. federal estate tax feform. relatively simple bill would In place of today's $60,000 esta te property. The tax - If the farm is sold to per- However in another (1) increase the present standard exemption, the bill could be paid immediately sons outside the family or development, the Senate $60,000standard deduction to would provide for a $29,800 following death of the ceases to be used for farm Finance Committee approved $200,000, (2) increase the credit' against estate' taxes. decedent or deferred until purposes prior to the'death of an amendment to the om- marital deduction from the This amount of the credit such time as the property is the qualified heir or within 25 nibus tax bill -- H.R. 10612. present one-half of the ad- would equal a standard sold to persons outside the years after the death of the This amendment would justed gross estate to $100,000 exemption of $120,000. family. In the case of a farm decedent, there would be a provlde for estate tax reform plus one-half of the adjusted Family farms passing to a which is passed from recapture of the tax benefits. very similar to the Burleson gross estate and (3) provide qualified heir would receive generation to generation Full recapture of the tax Bill. The amendment does not an option for heirs to have the an ~dditional $25,000 estate within the same family, the benefits would occur during provide for the Farm Bureau farm estate appraised at its tax credit. Therefore, in the heirs could defer payment of the first 15 years with a - opposed appreciation tax. agricultural value for estate case of farn:ts eligible for the the appreciation tax for as pQaseout during the The full Sena te was scheduled tax purposes rather than maximum credit, the two long a period as the farm remaining lo-year period. If to debate the Finance highest potential use .. credits would be equal to a remained in family owner- the heir died without having Committee amendment Last month a new and standard exemption' of ship. Whether .. paid im- disposed of the property or beginning June 17 or 18. The comprehensive federal estate $200,000.The additional credit mediately or deferred, the converting it to a nonfarm use American Farm Bureau and tax reform bill - H.R. 13966- would start to phase out tax would be levied on the or a period of 25 years from all state Farm Bureaus in- was introduced by where the estate exceeds $1 appreciated value occurring the decedent's death lapses, dicated strong support-for the Congressman Al Ullman (0- million and would be after l)eQember 31, 1976. liability for recapture would amendment to members of Oregon) .. The House Ways eliminated when it exceeds $2 . Payment of estate taxes cease .. the Senate. and Means Committee began million. would be stretched out over a Although H.R. 13966 In summary, although new considera tion of this' complex If the farm were sold to 'l5-year period. Unpaid tax on provides certain benefits developments are occurring 114-page bill on June 2. persons outside the family the first $1 million of estate similar to the Burleson Bill, almost weekly, progress is ' within 25 years from the date value would be subject to 4 Farm Bureau continues to being made towards enact- Because this bill presently of the decedent's death, there percent interest. At the end of support the Burleson ap- ment of federal estate tax appears to have the best would be a recapture of the the IS-year period, a IO-year proach. Farm Bureau is reform by the 94th Congress. chance for Committee ap- additional tax credit. The extension could' be granted specifically opposed to the Farm Bureau at all levels has proval, it is important that credit would be fully for reasonable cause. appreciation tax in H.R. been and will continue to give Farm Bureau members be recaptured during the first 15 Family farms would have 13966. - strong support for enactment aware of its provisions. years with a phaseout during an option of being appraised At the time this column is of meaningful estate .tax H.R. 13966 would combine the remaining 10-year period. on the basis of agricultural being written, the House reform. ' the federal estate tax and gift H.R. 13966 would permit a value rather than highest surviving spouse to claim a potential use. This option tax which are presently separat~ laws. Insofar as the federal estate tax provisions marital deduction of one-half the adjusted gross estate or would be available as long as the special appraisal did not mfrn of this new bill are concerned, it would turn current estate $250,000, greater. whichever is reduce the estate-value more than $1 million. fa~mers of Ban 'the Bottle Petitions Chalienged the week QUALITY FARMING OPERATIONS • AGRICULTURAL/COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT David Conklin Louis Ter Avest 430 acre Shiawassee 263 acre Alfegan County Countydairy and cash crop beef farm - Allegan Count¥ farmer - secretary - commissioner . former treasurer county Holstein member of county Farm Board . third member of Bureau board - past Executive Committee of treasurer East Allegan Soil County Farm Bureau Conservation District . board. member Michigan Livestock Exchanqe. REP. LYNN JONDAHL (D-EastLansing) carries Into the State Elections Division, one of senral boxe. containing over 310,000 signature. on petition. to ban non-returnahle boHle,'n Michigan. - Gene Maynard 430 acre Shiawassee Gordon Albright 398,000 SIGN PETITIONS County hog operation - 1100 acre Branch County President county Farm grain, hog and beef cattle On June 4 petitions to ban The suit charges that the The petitions would give Bureau member operation - member Farm nonreturnable beverage petitions were filed after. the voters a chance to express Michigan Livestock Ex- Bureau Oil branch board of containers were filed with the statutory deadline, did not themselves at the polls on change - past chairman - directors - member Kin- Secretary of State. The contain a title and that the whether or not certain county Young Farmer derhook Township Board of description of the proposed nonreturnable beverage Committee. Review.. petitions contained 398,000 signatures which virtually initiative law was containers should be banned. Eldon Knopf county Farm Bureau board assures the issue will be misleading. It is ~xpected Presque Isle County dairy of directors - member Michigan Farm Bureau farmer - director at-large county policy development decided by voters on that the Court will issue a of MMPA - member of committee. - November 2 if legal prompt decision on the s~t. members were extremely Michigan Farm Bureau has active in circulating the sponsored by . challenges are overcome. joined as an intervenor in the petitions and are responsible MICHIGAN FARM RADIO NETWORK A suit has been filed to suit in an attempt to uphold for a substantial number of AND FARM BUREAU INSURANCE GROUPTM declare_ ,the petition invalid. validity of the petition. the signatures obtained. PAGE 6 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1976 Beans. . .Beans. . .Beans p o REP. QUINCY HOFFMAN (R-77th District) and Michigan Boon Queen Kristy Jo Mowry of Fairgrove that during the Gratiot County Farm Bureau Women's bean smorgasbord during Capital Bean Day. REP. LOREN ARMBRUSTER (R-Caro) helps pass out cups of bean soup during the fourth bi-annual Capital Bean Day on May 19. Women Promote Agriculture YUMMY! Just one of the many people who enjoyed the cups of homemade bean soup during Capitol Bean TRY SOME YOGURT with your cheese tidbits, shoppers were en- Day, sponsored by the Michigan Bean Commission. couraged at the West Michigan Fair, held in the Woodland Mall, Grand Rapids, recently. Dairy products were among many Governor Gets 'Gras agricultural commodities promoted by Farm Bureau Women in the West Michigan area. Saginaw Set for Safemark SAGINAW COUNTY FARM BUREAU WAS FIRST in the state to sign a dealer agreement for the new Group Purchasing program. Selected by the committee and approved by the board as the dealer to carry Safemark tires and batteries for Farm Bureau members was Robert Reeves (center), manager of Hemlock Farmers Co-op. Shown watching Reeves sign the agreement are Donna Gulliver, county secretary, and Ivan Sparks, county president. Named to FBS Board Bruce Leipprandt of Pigeon THE NATIONAL ASPARAGUS FESTIVAL, held In Oceana County In June, wos promoted by Mrs. Asparagus has been named to the Farm of 1976, Joan Cheever of Shelby, who cam* fo Lansing to present Governor Mllllken with his personal Bureau Services, Inc. board basket of asparagus. Representative Dennis O. Cawthome (left) and Senator Anthony Dorozlnskl (right) of directors to fill the unex- were also present for the ceremony. pired term of Loren Gettel, also of Pigeon. Bruce, who has been president of the MOVING? Huron County Farm Bureau for the past three years, Planning to move? Let us know 8 print new address in space weeks in advance so you won't provided. Mail to: Michigan Farm operates a 1200-acre farm miss a single issue of the Michigan News, P.O. Box 960, Lansing, specializing in dairy, beef and Farm News. Attach old label and Michigan 48904. cash crops. He serves on the Name advisory board of the Pigeon Address Co-op, the local township City zoning board, and is Zip Code. treasurer of the local MMPA. State County of Membership. Bruce and his wife, Virginia, have two sons. JULY 1, 1976 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 7 Michigan Marketing Outlook Ego Order Rules Approv.ed Dairv The lIiii{J.S.D.A. has produce must remit the The Class I milk price for established the rules and assessment on them. Han- July, as announced by the regulations for implementing dlers who do no more than Southern Michigan the Egg Research and buy and sell nest-run eggs Marketing Area Market Promotion Order. The rules must also remit assessments Administrator, shows a will become effective August on the eggs they handle. decline of 14 cents per hun- 1, 1976.Under the rules every Under the rules, egg dred weight from the Class I commercial egg producer breakers, packers, handlers, price in June. The July Class with more than 3,000 laying and produce~s who b~eak or I price for 3.5 percent milk hens will be required to pay grade a portIon of theIr eggs will be $9.00. an assessment of 5 cents on must register as collecting The down ward price each 30 dozen cases of eggs handlers with the Egg Board movement is a result of in- marketed. Eggs from hat- prior t~ August 1st. . creased milk production chery operations are exempt. Registered collecting resulting from the usual . - . - handlers will receive an spring flush accompanied by Egg producers With less identification number which than 3,000 l~yers and. hat- must appear on all required heavier feeding of grain chery operahon~ ~ust fIle.a reports and communications MOVE OVER FELLAI - You're on my faucet. These newborns vie for which has been encouraged statem~nt certifYIng theIr with the Egg Board. position at dinner time on the Richard Cheney Centennial farm in by the relatively good milk- exemptIon . f~om the The Egg Research and Ingham County. feed price ratio. assessment. WIthin ten da~s Promotion Order was The U.S.D.A. recently after the f~rst sa~~ e~gs In authorized under provisions slightly higher. In nearly all areas was minimal. indicated the milk production August.. ThIS certIfIcatIo~ of of the Egg Research and areas the crop condition was Michigan's crop was placed for 1976may reach 117billion said to be good or very good. at approximately 90,100 pounds. The figure is ap- e~emptIon. should be fIled Consumer Information Act of proximately 2 billion pounds WIth the fIrst handler of the 1974. Oregon, Colorado, and North acres. eggs and must be up-dated Producers voted in favor of Dakota reported some Paul E. Kindinger, Director above the 1975production. annually by January 1st as the order in a national problems related to weather. Market Development NON-FAT DRY MILK l?ng as the I?roduce.r con- referendum in November Replanting in almost all Division PROBLEM - Excess supplies tInues to do bUSInessWIththat 1975. The program is of non-fat dry milk in all the world's majordairy producing handler. designed to expand and .Fruits & Veaetables countries have created a The Egg Order rules improve markets for eggs, ASPARAGUS- At the time LJ. S. D. A. GRAD E serious problem relative to designate shell egg packers egg products, spent fowl, and of this writing asparagus CHANGEFOR FRUITS AND the disposal of non-fat dry and egg breakers as products of spent fowl. picking is just over 50percent VEGETABLES - Effective milk. Solutions range from collecting handlers who will Bernie Bishop, complete. Some growers July 1,1976, the U.S.D.A. will give-away programs, to remit the Check-Off funds to Marketing Specialist have reported significantly adopt uniform grades for compulsory use in animal the Egg Board. Any producer Market Development reduced yields thus far. fresh fruits and vegetables. feeds, to dumping. who grades or breaks eggs he Division Prices for processing gras In an attempt to make the As of May 14th the United have been reported to be grades more useful for States has uncommitted rising. Fresh market prices consumers and marketers, Field Crops have held steady. Shipments the U.S.D.A. will use the inventories of 385 million pounds of non-fat dry milk. SOYBEANS Strong Agreement which takes effect in most areas of the country terms U.S. Fancy, U.S. No.1, foreign demand has been a 'October 1st this year, the A rapid decline in the have been light to very light U.S. No.2, and U.S. NO.3. commercial use of non-fat significant factor in recent U.S.S.R. can purchase up to 8 this season. Under the new policy, the markets. Advances have million tons of wheat and dry milk is the major reason S T RAW B ERR IE S following interpretations are for CCC accumulation. Non- been heavily influenced by corn. Trading has been very active given to the grades: fat dry milk sales last year the presence of Japanese and These factors along with with ship~ents th~s far U.S. Fancy -- Premium were down 11 percent from European buyers. The main strong markets for bean meal r~ported as hght. Qua~Ityand quality; covers only the top 1974and 38 percent from ten force keeping the l~d 0!l and corn have also prompted SIze of the 1976crop IS good. quality produced. years ago. Per capita, stronger advances IS Oil wheat prices to move higher. Prices at the Be~ton Har~r U.S. No. 1 - - The chief commercial sales of non-fat prices. Oil prices have A great deal from now on m~r~et (at the tIme of thIS trading grade; represents dry milk were 3.2 pounds last maintained their position depends on the weather, both wrItIng) were 59-63cents per good, average quality that is year. In 1966per capita sales near the 16 cent ~r po~d here and abroad. Some spring q~art for 16 quart cr~tes of practical to pack under were 5.2 pounds. Since 1966 level. If they remam at thiS wheat areas in the U.S. are Mid~ays and Gu~rdians - commercial conditions; the CCC purchase price for level then it takes ap- already reporting dry medium ~o large WIth a few covers the bulk of the quality non-fat dry milk has risen 327 proximately a $5 per ton weather. best selh~g for 75 cents!l range produced. percent. This compares to change in meal prices to quart. Prices at the DetrOIt . CCCpurchase price increases create a 12 cent per bushel CO~N - It now a~pears th~t Terminal Market were higher U.S. No.2-Intermediate rise in actual bean prices. carrymg stocks thiS fall WIll .at 81-88 cents per quart. b;tween ~.S. No.1 and. U.S. of 44 percent for butter and .. be no larger than a year ago. Demand so far has exceeded No.3; notIceably superIor to 130percent for cheese. Is non- Farmers have exhl~Ited a This is primarily due to a fat dry milk being priced out great degre~ of cautIon as recent surge in corn sales to available supply. U.S. No.3. of the market? U.S. No. 3 - The lowest well. HoldIng back on foreign buyers. This could merchantable quality IMPORTS - A recent available supplies. With mean a more favorable CHERRIES The proclamation by President American Agricultural practical to pack under rising demand for meal and market at harvest time than normal conditions. Ford has established zero disappearance at record some experts had originally Marketing Association import quotas on certain (AAMA)recently announced Consumers will probably levels, processors should also forecast. Futures prices have notice little immediate effect products containing non-fat be a positive factor in the advanced recently and are the 1976tart cherry quantity - dry milk. The proclamation price scale. These grower from the changes in market. (at the time of this writing) nomenclature. Use of the U.S. was aimed at stopping the based prices reflect varying importation of a mixture of WHEAT - The U.S.D.A. trading in the $2.90 to $3.00 crop sizes. Prices range from grade standards is voluntary winter wheat production range for new crop corn. and labeling is not required sugar and non-fat dry milk a low of 21.1cents per pound from Canada. The product forecast for June placed the Increased domestic feeding with a crop of 230 million by Federal law. crop at 1.416million bushels. may also add to a more contained less than 515 pounds to a high of 25.1cents APPLES - At this time the percent butterfat and did not This represents a 3 percent f a v 0 r a b Ie mar k e t per pound and crop size of 130 full impact of spring frosts is reduction from the May psychology. come under any of the tariff million pounds. Some experts not fully evident. However, schedules for dried milk and report. It is also a 14percent SUGAR BEETS - AFBF predict the crop to more several southeastern and cream products. It is believed decrease from the record 1975 recently did a quickie survey realistically fall in the 180to Appalachia area states are that the mixture was im- crop. of acreage, crop condition, 190million pound range. This reporting significant ported to circumvent the Prospects are also good etc. in the major sugar states. would mean a price of 22.7to damage. Reports from import quota on non-fat dry that the Russians will again (States included in the survey 23.1 cents per pound. Washington and Western New milk. be prominent in the U.S. were: California, Louisiana, Processor demand however, York however, indicate little Bernie Bishop, grain market this year. Colorado, Idaho, Nebraska, is already building as crop damage and potential "full" Marketing Specialist Lower than expected winter Washington, Ohio, Michigan, damage is now being crops. Processors located in M~.Al'ket Development wheat harvests and poor Oregon, and North Dakota.) assessed more accurately. areas of extensive damage Division spring planting conditions Of the ten states reporting, The prices announced by are already searching for AAMA are all based on 92 make it likely that they will about half reported reduced fall short of their 1976 plantings for 1976 with the score. Incentives should be possible supplies. Paul E. Kindinger, Director It livestock appears that rea-meat production goal. Under the 5 other states stating that a vailable for cherries Market Development production will be up 5 per- Year Soviet-American Grain acreage was the same or only grading above this level. Division (Continued on Page 13) PAGE 8 MICHIGAN F.ARM NEWS JULY .... >- z =» 2 i: Z 8 >t: =» LW ..... -iIllIDC_ =C111l1 8 .... III -~ ~ ;aaaaw~ ~ LW E C ~aa 4 cz: Z =» -OCO; W:!:! C111l1 .i c,:, i: - Q ,W~a.. ~ en '" cz: CI) LW .2! ai' ~ a: c... ~g~~~ () ~=tz~~ c:: III ~ E Z E =» W B aa ~..... ~ ..... V) ..... :z: -oc Q S=..c ~ .;: f ~ cc ~Co fI) CD eaf --~ "- ..c_~ CJcc.c = ~ e OC fI)~~ e ~== ~.~ Cl:S Q.Cl:S"- ~ s:: = .::c ~fI)CQ e 2 Q- Cl:S ..cQ~ ~..c_ -"- rn"-Q= i Q ! ~ "- Q . :J e s:: s::-Q S - "- OC "- Cl:S b.Q~ Cl:S "- Cl:S >- Q.c Q- ~ ~ ; 1:: :r: .~ z ...... - s:: s:: ;::) :.c Cl:S s:: ~ :e~ .....~ 8 ,,-.cs:: s:: cc .......... ~~ z Cl:S s:: ~u. o q: ~- fI).~ "- s:: Q Q.:; "- .B Q (..) --' c:c on Dl C '" I III ~ 1976 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 9 ~ z: = 8 ::c A.. LIJ en - o .en ..: ....z: >- ::) 8 z: o en cz: ::E .... >- .... >- .... >- z: .... >- III z z = ....z >- z: = o '- o o ~ o ::) Co.) = 8 o u o ;::) u z: o o i :5 ..... o N Co.) ...... 8 en L&J co en ::..: eE: ::E Z u L&J :5 !:2 c:z:: en - cz: c:z:: ::..: ::..: ~ z: = 8 z: .... o eE: LIJ >- >- .... >- s ...... z z ~ o ::) ::) o o Co.) ~ 8 L&J z L&.I N a::: z L&J a::: L&.I co co PAGE 10 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1976 commercial people planning PETROLEUM PRODUCTS supply liquid fuels to buildings should not delay, '- Final clearances were Michigan patrons. Supply ? but contact their local Farm completed for the purchase of TIRE STRIKE - The Bureau Center at once. With the ARCO, East Chicago, negotia tions between the the building season in full Indiana petroleum refinery United Rubber workers and Report swing promises can still be made on construction com- pletion dates. Gardening equipment, by CF Petroleum Company, partly owned by Farmers Petroleum. Michigan's Delivery Farmers to the Firestone Rubber deadlocked Company Tire and over major economic issues, as of the were GENERAL - This has been especially power tools, is Petroleum dealers com- middle of June, with no end in another big year of sales for selling in volume throughout menced almost at once. sight. About 60,000 URW Farm Bureau Services with a the state. Farm Bureau Prices on gasoline were workers have been striking record 10-month period dealers are seeing many new lowered 1f2 cent to start. This since April 21 against the concluded in April. Budgeted faces interested in pur- puts Farmers Petroleum in nation's big four: Goodyear figures were topped with a chasing garden supplies. an excellent position to (Continued on Page 13) total of $220,400,000compared to the budget of $177,000,000. Supplies sold exceeded 1975 sales of $214,000,000and 1974 sales of $208,858,000. This is a dollar and cents testimony by farmers showing the con- fidence they placed in the co- operative system. FERTILIZERS - With the fertilizer application season passed, it's of note to record the biggest May sales season ever to take place in any month. More fertilizer was sold by Farm Bureau Ser- vices in the month of May than in any previous year in history. The rush demand for fertilizer was great, but, so far, no reports of distribution breakdowns have come in. In other words, the Farm Bureau Services system of co-opera tion came through again with a record of out- standing achievement. All fertilizer supplies with the exception of anhydrous were tight from the first of April, Supplies of 28 percent Nitrogen solution also became tight as the season progressed. PESTICIDES Farm Bureau has an adequate supply of a variety of fruit For over 50 years ... FARMERS IN MICHIGAN ... have secured fungicides, insecticides and agricultural supplies and marketing services for themselves herbicides such as 2, 4-D and through their own supply and marketing cooperatives ... Farm 2, 4-5 T's. Chemical in- ventories of field crop her- Bureau Services and Farmers Petroleum. bicides were cleaned out in a Cooperatives have been able to provide a more bountiful food tremendous call for delivery supply for a growing number of consumers at affordable prices. by farmers. The strong demand for pesticides Our farmer cooperatives sharpen farm supply competition in the overcame price buying as marketplace ... cooperative purchasing strength helps secure farmers wanted pesticides scarce farm supplies for farmer patrons. fas t. Corn rootworms pesticides were crucially Farm Bureau Sevices ... Farmers Petroleum Cooperative ... short for farmers not or- contributing to make Michigan producers secure in their farming dering early. Farm Bureau efficiency and profitability: We're proud of our heritage of pa trons were adequa tely successful service to farmers. In this spirit, we heartily join in the supplied according to dealers Bicentennial celebration of our nation. in spite of the close balance because of good back-up from our warehouses. FEEDS - Farm Bureau's quality feeds are moving well based on the excellent results feeders obtain and com- ASK THE petitive Farm Bureau prices. The prices of feed grains and FARM BVR£IUJ soybean meal were strong PEOPLE through the middle of June with farmers, who would usually be selling grains, holding on their farms. Liquid silage additive has shown increased popularity. LSA seminars for dealers are very well attended. Dealers will be contacting farmers to 565 explain the use of this most advantageous product. With higher feed grain prices, LSA is a way to sa ve and increase profits. HARDWARE - Manufac- turers of building supplies, including steel and aluminum ---. JUL V 1, 1976 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Super Farm Supply Salesman is a Lady BY DONNA WILBER something was repairing has to be waded through. She's. a pint-sized dynamo equipment. The daughter of a They think of me as 'one of who looks you straight in the- mechanic, she's handy with a the boys.'" eye, gives you a handshake monkey-wrench herself. The secret of Janice's that makes you wonder where Janice doesn't feel she's success seems to be her the power comes from, and impinging on a "man's genuine respect for farmers, speaks in a straightforward world" while she pursues her and her sincere desire to manner that leaves no doubt career in serving farmers. serve their needs. Someday, that she knows what she's She enjoys her work and does J:an may wish to go back into tallting about ... it well -- so why should the management. She feels her When Janice Stuck says she fact she's a woman have any experience in the field would will have $300,000 in sales of bearing? Her husband has be valuable. But, for now, farm supply products for the just purchased a packing she's happy and enthusiastic year ending July 1, you house and' people have been about her current job. She's believe her. The highly- asking if she will leave her in her Hillsdale office every motivated Farm Bureau position to join him in the weekday morning at 8:00 and Services sales rep, who works business. "Not a chance!" then it's dirc~t to the farms out of the lilllsdale office, was says Janice. "To me, that's by 9:30 a.m. near that mark in mid-May. man's work!" In addition to a full-time In fa~t, if you include the . Do her custotners feel any career, Janice is also a wife grain she's bought to be skepticism about buying their ~d mother. All this for a gal shipped to t~~ Ott~wa Lake farm supply products from a who, at 14 years of age, was' terminal, the figure is petite, attractive, y~ung told by her doctor to "go sit already an impressive salesman ? Janice doesn't quietly in a chair for the rest $312,000. _' think so. Most of them knew of your life." What's a nice girl like Jan her when she was a branch Janice, 'who has only one doing in a' job like farm' manager and respect her. kidney, decided she would not supply sales? No big deal, knowledge in the field. sit quietly, that she would says she; before she went on "I suppose if I came make the most of her life sales, she was manager of the traipsing into the barnyard in because' 'you can do anything Hillsdale Branch of Farm a mini-skirt, my credibility you really want to do if you Bureau Services. In that role, might be questioned, but I set your mind -to it." "I never asked an employee oon't. I wear slacks, my Right now, :;he's, set her JANICE STUCK to do anything I wouldn't do Farm Bureau shirt, and boots mind on reaching that myself," even if that to wade through whatever $300,000mark. Marketin'g Committee Named Recent appointees to the MACMA Direct Marketing Advisory Committee held their first meeting June 14 at Farm Bureau Center, Lan- sing. The committee has been delegated the responslbility of reviewing the Direct ~arketing Division's programs. Committee recommenda tions will be Every fanner acted upon by the MACMA board of directors. should go It is expected that ttte commi ttee will make straight DIRECT MARKETING ADVISORY COMMITTEE members are (left to recommendations on right, seated) Mrs. Edna Timm, Herron; Mrs. Katherine DenHeuvel, Hart; Don Hill, Montrose; Bob Gregory, Direct Marketing Van- operational policies, credit to the top policies, marketing Manager; (standing) Don Nugent, Frankfort; Art Dowd, Hartford, and Robert Peabody, Fenton. Not present were Myron Kokx, Fremont, strategies, along with for credit. suggesting products to be . and Audrey Stofer, leslie. handled. Wheat Po()/ Enters 10th Year' The first meeting of the 1976 Glenn Preston, Quincy; In 1975. the cooperative Farm Credit System moved to the Ruvert VanderMeulen, top as the leading lender to agriculture ...with over $30 billion M.FB Soft Wheat Advisory Wilmont Stotz, Ida; Gerald McBain; Dean Pridgeon, in ~g-Ioans. Of that whopping total. $3.5 billion was handled Committee was held at Farm Waldeck, Caledonia; Robert Board of Directors; Jack by the Farm Credit Banks of St. Paul. Bureau Center on June 14, Kissane, S1. Johns; Leroy Laurie, Board of Directors; But doing business with the Farm Credit System means 1976.Committee members for Schluckbier, Frankenmuth; and Larry DeVuyst, Board of more than going to the biggest. It means going to the top in the coming year include: Robert Beard, Pentwater; Directors. ag-credit knowledge, too. Farm credit people know farming Robert Brown, Kalamazoo; Lorna Dershem, St. Louis; Robert Brown, Kalamazoo and the heavy requirements for capital. They know coopera- tives, too ...and all about the huge credit resources co-ops county wheat grower, was re- need to continue serving rural patrons effectively. elected as Chairman of the FOR' SALE: Red, White committee. To get loan funds, the Farm Credit Banks of St. Paul go straight to the top money markets. Sale of farm credit bonds Members of the 1976. raises funds to finance full- and part-time farmers and ranchers and Blue Fruit commi ttee accepted recommenda tion from the a and their cooperatives and Wisconsin. in Michigan. Minnesota. North Dakota previous year's committee to When it comes to ag credit...think of your Production Credit A "Bicentennial Salute of Michigan Fruit" is being offered to Farm Bureau members. Participating cpunty continue operation of the Association, Federal Land Bank Association, or Bank for whea t marketing pool. This Cooperatives. It's the way for every farmer to go straight to Farm Bureaus are joining forces with Farm Bureau fruit the top-to the Farm Credit System. will mark the loth con- growers, making R,ED tart cherries, WHITE apple slices secutive year that the Wheat and BLUEberries available to farm folks. Additional products which will also be available through the program will be strawberries, hi-density orange con- Marketing Program has been in effect. The committee also established advance payment COOPERA";~~ FAIIM centrate and Michigan's apple cider concentrate. Prices will be considerable higher on most fruits in '76. Quality will be excellent and fruit will be available for rates for the upcoming program year. They also elEIII the member-ta-member program, according to Bob Gregory, Direct Marketing Manager. Participating counties will have prices by mid-July and members . established August 15 as the last delivery date for ac- ceptance of wheat into the IIIKS OF ST. PAUL Federal Intermediate Credit Bank (for your PCA) pool. Excep.tions from the Federal Land Bank (for your FLBA) should place their orders between July 15 and July 31 to August 15th deadline will be . Bank for Cooperatives (for your cooperatives) assure delivery. Frozen fruit shipments will then be granted in areas where 375 Jackson St., St. Paul, MN 55101/Phone: (612) 725-7722 made during mid-August. harvest is late or delayed. PAGE 12 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1976 IIPioneers Rendezvous With History l1 BY MARCIA DITCHIE They travelled by covered wagons westward over the Santa Fe, Oregon and Lewis and Clark Trails and by flatboats, steamboats and barges down the M~ssissippi and Ohio Rivers. They were men, women and children moving westward as early as the late 1700's. They were, for the most part, farmers, curious and adventurous, in search of fulfilling the. American dream. Within 100 years of the signing of the Constitution, PROVIDING OFFICIAL ESCORT for each of the five segments of HORSE-DRAWN ICE gEAM WAGON from Bolgos Farms was these courageous individuals the National BIcentennial Wagon Train pilgrimage to Valley just one of many local wagons which joined the, wagon train had transformed the rugged Forge ;s a Conestoga wagon from the Commonwealth of during its journey across southern. lower Michigan. frontier into wheat fields and Pennsylvania. ranches. In celebration of the nation's 200th anniversary, the Commonwealth of Penn- sylvania has spo~sored a unique way to pay tribute to those Americans and recall FlTCion Model 200 the vital role they played in the growth of our nation .. On July 4, 1976, 200 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, 60 officiC!lcovered wagons of Pennsylvania's Bicentennial Wagon Train Pilgrim~ge will converge on Valley Forge, arriving from every state in the Union, to rededicate to each American the ideals upon which this nation was founded. In an attempt to rekindle the American spirit - which helped build this nation, five segments of the train are AUTOMATIC crossing the country, west to east, travelling as closely as INDOOR FLY possible those same historic trails which carried the early CONTROL homesteaders west. Electric control. Just turn on the RID-Q-RAY Since the first wagons left Flygon and you'll get rid of indoor flies ef- Blaine, Washington, in June fectively, continuously and without odors, 1975 heading east, thousands ENTERTAINERS GREETED VISITORS during the encampment of the Great Lalees segment of the National Bicentennial Wagon .fumes, pest strips, sprays, chemicals, fuss of Americans have joined in or muss. Ah! At Last, sanitation for pennies Tra;n at Cambridge Junction May 21-23. The Soule Trail Long the festivities by either riding Rilles muzzle loading rille' dub were one of the groups. per day. "Spectral Glo" panels attract flies with the train or participating in encampment activities. By to electrically charged grids. In a split sec- spring 1976,all five segments ond the dead insects drop into a removable of the Pilgrimage, including tray. Anywhere flies are a problem, there's a the Great Lakes train with RID-Q-RAY model right for you. Michigan's Bicentennial Ask for RID-Q-RAY, the best in indoor or covered wagon, were heading outdoor flying insect control . at your toward their rendezvous with Farm Bureau dealer today. history at Valley Forge. Safemark is on Schedule RID-Q-RAY America's best-selling The Group Purchasing program for Farm Bureau electric insect control devices members only, adopted by USDA accepted voting delegates at the U ' CSA listed special session last June, is L Complies With , on schedule. As of mid-June, OSHA standards 22 county Farm Bureaus had signed agreements to par- ticipate in the program. Where )bur Farm Comes Rrst Another 15 counties have selected their group pur- chasing committees to study the needs of their members FaRm~ Bureau and select dealers to recommend to county boards of directors. The group purchasing concept, as it evolves in Michigan, will begin with FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC members buying tires and HOW MEALS AlE PIEPAIED on the trallb demonstrated by batteries from their local one of the membe~ of the $auk Trail long lifles Oub. dealers. JUL Y 1, 1976 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 13 Members Can Save 40% .Market Report AUTO RENTAL (Continued from Page 7) DISCONTINUED Michigan Farm Bureau has with BC-BS Econo Plan- quarter cent during the second as compared to 1975. terminated with Hertz Corporation which its agreement caused misunderstanding many Farm Bureau mem- by The new Blue Cross and Blue Shield Econo Plan whlch This increase has prevented bers. eligible members may select during a special open period any substantial price ad- provided certain discounts Existing cards .will con- (July 1 through July 12) offers significant savings to both vance for slaughter livestock. for car rentals. The tinue to be honored at cor- enrolled and un-enrolled Farm Bureau members. Predictions are for hog agreement was terminated porate locations for the COMPREHENSIVE ECONO SAVINGS slaughter to increase 13-15 because of the small number member of the membership Single $36.70 $20.37 $16.33 percent during the hist half of of members who used the year. Two Person 83.63 44.25 39.38 1976 with cattle slaughter to program and difficulty in Family 88.63 49.22 39.41 decline to year ago levels:' coordinating the program Members will be able to Family Continuation Rider 19.60 11.17 8.43 Such an_ occurrence will with Hertz's licensees. The continue to take advantage of Single Complementary 11.77 3.98 7.79 depress hog prices to the fact that the discount did not the many other economic The savings in actual cost admission. lower forty dollar range, apply to special rates also benefits available to them. per month a verages over 4G By the same token, if a while raising ca ttle prices to Q the upper forties. A percent in each member member is billed $3000.00by a category. The rates shown doctor for eligible medical- Replacement price will feel and are those which will be ef- surgical services for which the effects of changing feed fective beginning August 20, Blue Cross and Blue Shield grain prices: Higher feed QUESTION: 1976. would allow full payment prices will cause continued Our line fence needs repair. Who is required to pay for then the member would have reduction in cattle numbers the maintenance? Are both parties required to pay even The lower rate Wlder the to assume 30 percent or and reverse the present build- though one of the parties does not benefit or have Econo Plan -is brought. about $900.00 of that charge. up of pig members. livestock? by the member sharing in the Persons on the medicare Bill Haas, Manager ANSWER: cost at the time services are Complementary plan would MACMA Livestock Division According to Michigan Fence Law, both occupants are required. For example: if a pay the regular $104.00 Supply Report required to maintain the line fence. The law further member is admitted to the medicare deduction on Part (Continued from Page 10) states that the cost shall be divided equally. There is also hospital and the charge for A for each benefit period. Tire & Rubber, B. F. provision in the la w that if the two occupants are unable eligible hospital services Under Part B a member Goodrich, Firestone, and to reach an agreement, 'fence viewers will be appointed. billed to Blue Cross and Blue under the Complementary Uniroyal. Duties of the fence viewers include deter~ing the ne.ed Shield is $600.00 then the plan must pay the $60.00 per In the meantime, Farmers for a fence and in cases where existing fence needs member would be obligated year deductible amount. '. Petroleum's Cash & Carry maintenance. the fence viewers also determine who shall to pay 30 percent of the bill or' Members contemplating a Tire Program has been pay and what amount. If one of the parties refuses to pay. $180.00. Blue Cross and Blue change in plans should study booming with patrons saving the amount can be placed as a lien on the land and Shield pays full cost of the new Econo Plan money with large discounts. assessed in the same manner as property taxes. eligible services after the thoroughly. Information and Dealers report their supply of Recently, a bill was drafted in the State Legislature to member has paid a descriptive literature is tires is going fast, especially update and revise the existing fence law. The draft was maximum of $600.00 out of available from your county rear tractor tires. Get tires initiated as a result of Farm Bureau policy relative to the pocket expense for each secretary. now at Farmers Petroleum. fence law. FARM BUREA'U MARKET. PLACE SPECIAL RATE TO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS: One free 25 word ad per month per membership, additional words. 10 cents each. Figures such as 12 or $12.50. count as one word NON- MEMBER advertisers: 15 cents per word one edition, two or more editions, 10 cents per word. Copy deadline: 13th of Month. Mail classified ads to: Michigan Farm News, P. O. Box 960, Lansing Mi. 48904 Publisher reserves right to-reject any advertising copy submitted. _ ' FARM EQUIPMENT FARM EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK MISCELLANEOUS MISCEllANEOUS FOR SA'.E - PATZ BARN CLEANER, Right. FARM BUILDING MAINTENANCE -- We FOR SALE: 25 Hols Dairy Cows, 9 Heifers WANTED TO BUY. Used bees & hives, FOR SALE :.1968 Chev. Station Wagon, 6 cyl. hand with 225 feet chain for 18" gullers in specialize in painting high buildings & for base. March B.F. 4035. 1099 base. Her. contact. Ron Riegler,' 3780 Wickham. Dr., stick S350.OO. David Kraft, 7424 Bliss St., good condition. reasonable. Roy Moore, R roofing steep roofs. Work from boom truck bert Grueber. 3220 Maple Rd .• Bridgeport, Muskegon, 616.780.3534 or 616,780.2292. Pigeon 48755. Phone 517-453.3097. No.1. Lawrence 49064. Phone 616.674.8578. with 65 ft. reach. For estimate call High Mich. R No.1. Call 517-652-6445 after 6 p.m. (7.1f.16p) (7.lt-19p) (J.lt.25p) Boy Builders, LanSing 517.8825869. (6.2t '25p) Copemish 616.378.2375. Muskegon 616.773. FOR SALE. 23' Deluxe Fan trailer. fully SAUSAGE MAKERS, premixed spices, 2669. (6.6t.30b) FOR SALE - New Zealand White Rabbits, CASE. GRAIN SEPARATOR - all steel. 22", cures for ham, bacon. poultry, game. 40 contained. Moor Ride, Reease Hitch. 12 volt bred for top meat production. "Rabbits are converter, charger, bath tub, shower, I'arge complete with belts. Also S' Grain Binder on recipes, casings. stuHers, smoker ideas. HARLEY ROCK PICKERS. Rock Wil' our only business." Dettmers Bunny Patch, refrigerator. Lawrence Block, Owendale. rubber. All excellent condition. Frank Sabo. Calalag,.National Home PrOducts. Box 4397. drowers. Picks 1 to 16" dia. The World' ~ Phone 517-584.3765, Caron City. Mich. 517.678.4395. 14645 - 76th Ave .• Coopersville 49404,616-837- 17, Las Vegas. Nevada 89106. (4.9t.25p) Best. Phone 313.376.4791. Earl F. Reinelt, (7.tf-24p) (7.2t.25p) 8773. (7- 1t-25p) .4465 Reinelt, Deckerville. Mich. 48427. (5.tf- 23p) - LOG CABI N and rustic furniture building' QUARTER HORSES - Disposition for 4-H. WANTED TO BUY. A PTO driven combine instructions! 166 pages ... illustrated. ability for cattle, conformation for show. with seed cleaner in gOOd condition. Phone FOR SALE • John Deere three furrow, 16 Satisfaction guarantee<: \3.95 postpaid. Reasonable prices. Customer satisfaction a 616.657.5003 or write to GREEN TIP FARM. inch, two way turn over moldboard Plow. Glenn Smith.Enterprises. Box 1513, Dept. F .. SPRAY-TEC insulation for metal, wood and priority. Visitors welCOme. Walton Farms. R No.3. Paw Paw, Michigan 49079. Like new. Joe Grnak. New Lothrop, Mich. 81, Akron. Ohio 44J09. (6.2t.24p) block buildings. UL Lab. as Class A building Rosebush. Phone 517.433-2925. (3. tf-24p) (7-4t.25p) Phone Owosso 517-743.5282. (7.1t-23p) material. Gerald Oakley, 1420 M.52 North, LAND CLEARING and Bulldozing. By the FARMERS. Multi. manufacturer distributor Stockbridge. Mich. 49285. Phone 517.851 . FOR SALE - 30 Large Holstein Heifers 2 yrs. hour or by the job. Tom Tank, Eagle, expanding business throughout Michigan. 8062. (5.12t.25p) vac open \38500; 20 Heifers yr. old Service FOR SALE: 250 gaL Jamesway tank, Milk. Michigan 48822. Phone 517.626.6677. (5- ".18p) Need agriculturally experienced associates. Bull. Edward Tanis, Jenison 616.669-9226. (6. veyer. 3 Surge units. S-P-ll & SP.22 Surge 3t-23p) Work independently. Excellent prOducts .. pumps, Bou.matic unit and electric AFRICAN VIOLETS -. Start plants from commissions . benefits. Send name - ad. pulsation. Roger Greenwald. Reed City - 616- GRAIN DRYING AND STORAGE dress. P.E.D .• Box 781. East Lansing. Mich. CHAROLAIS • For sale polled or horned leaves. over 80 varieties. Descriptive price 832.2686. EQUIPMENT. Farm Fans Dryers, Brock (7.6t.25p) bulls and bred cows, performance tested. R. list 35c. Gail's Violets, R No.4, Sf. Johns. (7.lt.25p) Bins. Bucket Elevators, Sales. Installation, J. Eldrldge& Sons. 7911 Alden Nash Rd., (M- Mich. 48879. (6.tf.20p) Service. Keith 0110. K & R Equipment, Inc .• SO) Alto. Mich. (616) 868.6223. - HOMEMAKER'S WANTED! OUT. Charlotte 48813, 517.543.13SO. (10.H-2Sp) FOR SALE - JOhn Deere, rear mounted, 8. (3.tf.25p) AVOID THE MIDDLEMEN and save. Cedar STANDING INCOME! INFORMATION row cultivator; Infl 580 No. 8.row Planter, Products: fence post, grape post, pointed FOR STAMPED ENVELOPE. LaPoe, 9700 also 1969 TD20B . International Bulldozer SURVIVE THE ENERGY CRUNCH Burn COW TRIMMING makes your cows feel post and rustle round rail fences. Purchase Pinehurst. South Gate, California 90280. with blade. Phone 313-659.6535. All very good wood, famous AShley Thermostatic wood better, produce better and makes you more direct. trucking no charge in truck loed lots. (7-6T.15p) condition. burning circulators available now. Krader money. Call Bob Presson, RFD 3, Evart. MI Write: Ivan R. Malnar, Wholesafe Cedar (7.lt-25p) Enterprises. Rt. No. I, Grand Junction, 49631. Phone (6161 734.S051. nOtf-14p: Post Yard. Rte. No.3. Rapid River, Mich. 490S6. Phone 6'6-253.4332. (5.5t.24p) Michigan 49878. 906-474.5204 evenings. ~AVORITE CANNING RECIPES! ZUcchini FOR SALE. Ford 8 ft. Rotary Chopper in (3-6r-4Jp) pickles, Jar Sauerkraut. Catchup. Green. very good condition. S175.00. Telephone 616. CORRIEDALE SHEEP. Purebred Breeding FOR ~ALE • "Flying L" horse & stock stock for sale. Paper optional. Waldo F. tomato dillpickles. Ripe tomato Relish S1.oo WI6-9025. Louise DeYoung, R No 3, Box 119, trailers, gOOseneck & flatbeds In stock, 1'12 Dieterle, 7285 Textile Rd., Saline, Mictr.- ~~~lton's, Box 233.131, New Ulm, Minn. Traverse City 49684. (7.lt.14p) mi. west of Palo. Tpomas Read, Fenwick. 48176. Phone (313) 429-7874. (1. H.19p) WANTED TO BUY. Old farm tractors. old Mich. 48834. Phone517.6J7.4772. (10.tf.25p) (7.lt.20p) trucks. manuals and farm machinery WATER PIPE FINDER: Simple but MILKING SHORTHORNS - Young bulls, magazines. State condition and price. LeRoy amazing device will find irrigation and other yearlings and calves for sale. Write or visit Keinath, 5718 Hart Road, Vassar. Michigan FOR SALE • 32 used Gamesway Stantion!> COLDWATER DILLPICKLES! Can in pipes underground (plastic. iron. aluminum, Stanley M. Powell and Family. Ingleside 48768. Stalls drinking cup. good condition. cheap. minutes! No hot brine. Delicious, Crisp. ceramic and others). Used by civil Farm. R.R. 2, Box 238, Ionia, Mich. 48846. (5-tf-25p) Dale Woolcoff. HarHord, Mich. 49057. Factory Secrets! Recipe \1.00. Hamilton's. engineers, contractors and others. Will not (.6. tf. 25p) Box 233.131. New Ulm. Minn. 56073. find free flowing water. Send $4.95 + SOc (7.2t.17p) POEMS WANTED • The MICHIGAN (7.1t.20p) postage & handling to PIPE FINDER. EBI CHAROLAIS - For sale polled or horned SOCIETY OF POETS is compiling a book of Breakthrough, Inc., 821 Fourth Avenue, bulls and bred cows, performance tested. poems. If you have written a poem and Lake Odessa, MI 48849. R.J. Eldridge & Sons, 7911 Alden Nash ~ci., would like our seleclion committee to con. (7-lt.52b) L,IVESTOCK (M.50) Alto, Mich. (616) 868.3081. (3-tf.25p) sider it for publication, send your poem and CUSTOM perienced CHERRY HARVESTING, crew dOes quality work, ex. shock. a self. addressed stamped envelope to: wave trunk shaker. We furnish all equip. WE SELL, SERVICE AND ERECT NEW MICHIGAN SOCIETY OF POETS, 6J.a5 BEEFALO HEIFERS, Bulls from S650.00. ment. Telephone for II cost estimate. Earl SMITH SILOS, rebuild used silos, Install REGISTERED Corriedale Sheep for sale. West McNichols, Detroit, Michigan 48221. Pure blood Basolo Hybrid semen from S7.00 Peterson, Shelby, 616.861.SJJ9.. (4.5t-25p) complete manure systems, Including above Rams, Ram lambs, ewes. good bloodlines. (7-4t.SOb) ampule or straw. Free Beefalo sk)ry. ground storage. Silo-matic unloaders and Also Hampshire Rams. Leo Eccles, Mendon American Beefalo. Mayville 21, Michigan. complete feeding systems, free planning and 49072. Phone 616-496-7650. (7tf.21p) Phone 517.8.43.6811. FOR SALE • Cedar post and holes. Hand estimates. Laursen's Inc., West Branch 517. (7-tf.25pl. . peeled. posts 2" to 8", poles 10' 12' 16'. Call REAL ESTATE J,.t5.1400. We have agents covering most of 517-362.3384 or 517-362.2452. East Tawas. FOR SALE. YORKSHIRE serviceage boars the state. Some areas are stili open. Call if (7-lt.20p) and open gilts top bloodlines tested at MSU REGISTERED American Catahaula Interested. (4.6t-2Sp26b) FOR SALE: 22 acres, Flowing well. fenced, test station. All registered stock. Richard Leopard pups. Natural. Talented.Gentle.AII SAVE MONEY! ENERGY! Cut Your 4.bedroom house 26x38, basement, plum. Cook. 1 2 mile east MUlliken. M-4J. Phone 517. around stock dog. Also good guard dog. Wm. Electric Bill 50 percent. ,".page bOOk, SJ.9S bing. framed bam 4Ox.40. sheds. chicken 649.8988. (3-H.24p) L. Davis. 12537 Linden Rd .• Linden 48451. (75c post.) Mitchell Enterprises. P.O. Box house. More land available. S28,OOO. Phone 313-735-7728. "277 (N). Inglewood. California 90309. Telephone 517-362.3339, Herbert Phelps, 2201 ROMEO FARM EQUIPMENT - 4.ton FOR SALE: Suffolk Sheep, 16 choice 2 yr. (7-2t.25p) (7 -It.21p) N. Wilber Rd., East Tawas 48730. (4..tt.33p) Fertilizer Spreader, New Holland chopper, olds. Suffolk ewes-Grade 'From a small 1880 chopper. John Deere lime spreader, flock' ; also one Reg. SuHoik ram 2 yrs. old. Ford 640 diesel combine, 4 row corn head - 14 vigorous. price \1000 Cash. Phone 313.198. FOR SALE - Springer Spaniel AKC PAINTING, Tuck pointing. sand blasting. WANTED: Rural land forested or cleared in ft. grain head. Ford mower, 1965 Dodge 0- 8290. Eldon C. Barclay, Sr., Almont. registered puppies, from excellent hunflno caulking. registered steeple jack. fully il'l- Kalamazoo area. with or without house or 700 truck. 313.752.9882 or 313.752.9666. (6-2t. Michigan 48003. stock. aU shots. S75. Unionville. 517-67".2433. sured. E. R. Wilcox, 3.&24E. Beaver Rd .• Bay buildings. can be rolling. Write P.O. Box 25p9b) (7-lt.35p) (7.1f.16p) City. Phone517-68.4.7640. (6-tf-20p) 797. Unionville. Phone 517.674.2311. (6-3t-2Sp) PAGE 14 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1976 Estate' Planning TUVIC by KEN WILES Manager Member Relations It,l, I 1-1., ,.: ....,.,:.~:".<_;!i:,. . , ~. _ it In 1942 it was rare for a farmer's -estate to have kids "if anything happened". When they were to file a federal estate tax return. The $60,000 'killed in on occident, the wife's parents went to exemption was usually more than the value of the court and won custody of the children. So the estat~. But in the 30 plus intervening years, the children were raised by older people, exactly what - $60,000 exemption and tax rates haven't changed the youngl couple hod wonted to ovoid. one bit: Today it's rare for a farmer's estate not to We've all heard sad stories like these. they retu-r,n. And- the tax -- sh.ould-scare us -- scare us into action that will put - have to file a fE!..c!e!QL~tsntt~_tax is often high. It now takes .?ver a dollar to achieve our estates in order so our loved ones will never. the same purchasing power $.30 had in 1942. On have to ask, "What will we do now?" .. the average, assets -per farm are almost 20 times , .. ..:..-.-;. greater than they were then. Let s demolash a couple .of assumptIons that have Death taxes and estate settlement costs at the caused untold suffering and agony. First, let's not deaths of parents fre-quently take between 20 and ass.ume that you wil~ hav~ plenty of time bef<:>re 30 percent 'of the assets. And it's not uncommon for rehrement to get t~mgs m order. Instead,. thmk it to run as high as 40 percent. It's shocking but it what would happen If death struck today. WIll the ~.~ happens because form owners are much' !,",ore farming .operatio~ co.ntinue? ~ill your lov~ ones energetic in creating their estates than. they are in be pr~vld~ for. WIll !h~'r Itfestyle "remam .the ~,~...>, preserving them or passing them on to their heirs. same ..And ISUncle Sam s estate plan best SUIted where a son or son-in-law may have spent 30 years of time, ~ffort, capitol and energy helping the Estate planning, in its ,broadest sense, may in- to theIr nee?s? .. volve man things. The making of a will is a A second erroneous assumption IS that estate parents in the family business: only to find out, at traditional ypart of it but it involves insurance planning is for the older ones, and maybe then only' the death of the parents, that his interest is no reviews, ,an examinati~n of how property is owned, for those wit~ larger estates. Hogwash! Chances. greater than brothers lor sisters who left home many years ago. tax implications, and planning which can involve are a !>5 year old can better af!ord a~ unplan~ed property transf~r duriW1glife as well as after death. es~ate than the you~g f~rme~ with C? Wife, growing Other uncertainty faces the. on-form heirs. How For someone who has spent a lifetime creati!1g an chIldren, a substantIal m.vestment and $75,0?0 of will the annual income be divided? Who will make' estate, it's almost inconceivable to see the ap- debt. Younger people with a .need to. estab~'sh a the decisions -- and especially what right do off- form heirs have? paren't disregard for future health and well being' means for the care and ed~c<:ttJ<:>n of chll~ren In,the that exists in the absence of a personal estate event both parents are killed m an aCCIdent ~ay Uncertainty also faces off-form heirs. Will their program .• a(:tually have. a greater need for estat~ plannmg. investment in the form business, their inherited For the far too many individuals who've put off You may SIt back, relax, and say, well, con- shores, provide them with any income? Are they talking to an expert about establishing an estate sidering where I'll be about that time, I could care locked in to 0, form they have no voice fn plan, we do have some good news __and some bad I~ss that happ.e~s to my property." ~ut if you.wotu Id managing? Fair and equitable distribution of" property to news. The good news is that whether you know it h~e. to . partIcIpate more meanmgfull.y m he or not, you do have an estate plan .. Between state dlst.n~utlon of your property, your. planning should children is a mai~r objective of an estate plan. and federal laws for disposing of the property of a anticipate the .unforeseen as ~ell as the foreseen. Objectives must be sorted out, priorities established, and plans made which will accomplish person dying without a will, you can die anytime Estate planning ~as two basl~ elements -- people and your property will be disposed of in exact and property. The people side poses three levels these objectives. With sharply higher lar;ld values and increases in farm size, many farmers who have accordance with those rules. The bad news is that of concern. First: what would happen if one <:>fthe it's there whether you like it or not. parents should die? Sec~nd, what would you like to never considered themselves wealthy will leave - If you don't mind having a large share of your happen if bot.h should dl~? This could be a matter behind substantial estates for settlement. estate going to po federal estate taxes state of common disaster or Simply a matter of natural This leads directly into the second element of inheritance tax anJ estate settlement co~ts __ if order of death. And finally, at the third level, what estate planning -- property. There are two basic types of property -- real property or real estate and you don't mind' having someone else determine ~ould ~ou'like ~one with yo~r ,frope.rty if the.entire personal property. Real property includes land and what happens to your property after you die __then In~medlate far~"ly should die. All It takes IS one whatever is built upon the land permanently while perhaps it's not too important. missed stop sign ... personal property includes movables and such Let's take a moment and see what can happen ,The.se levels of c<:>ncer.n.lead naturally to when estate planning does not take place: questions about the dIspOSItIon of property. Not intangible property as stocks, bonds, savings ac- only does estate planning maximize the extent of counts and insurance. +A farm wife trusted her husband's judgment, property available for distribution to loved ones, It's how this property is owned that is so im- figuring there would be a good income for her after but it does it in a planned way. If minor children portant when it comes to estate planning. You get he died. When he did, estate taxes and settlement survive, or if not all grown up children have into such terms ,as fee simple, life estate, costs took 25 percent of the value of the estate. remained in agriculture, or even if the widow is remainder, joint tenancy and tenancy in common. Nearly half of the rest went to other relatives. He . incapable of managing a large farming operation, It's not our intent to examine these here but simply had neglected to draw up a will. At age 59, his wife then it becomes obvious that estate planning is to point out that when you start planning your hod to go looking for a job in town for the first time important for all ages, but for different reasons. estate, you wHI need help in deciding what type is in her life. Here are some objectives that should be con- best for you and your particular' objectives. +Another former hod on estate plan "in his sidered in estate planning. If you don't answer Dying without an estate plan is a bit like walking h~ad". It was a good plan to keep the form going them, or if they haven't been formally incorporated off your farm for a year and asking a neighbor to and to cut estate settlement costs. He also put off in a personal estate plan, then you may be courting toke care of things. No one really knows exactly making a will. He died suddenly and the forming disaster: how you want things done -- and it probably won't son hod to sell off half the form to pay the non- Estate planning is for the living as well as their get done in the way you want. forming children their shores. The farm was no survivors. And whether you live to 65 or 105, If you like the state's plan, you're in great shope. longer efficient so he found a ;ob in to~n .. security of income and security of capitol are But that's not too likely. After estate taxes, funeral +Estate problems occur even WIth WIlls. A typical ob;ectives. Both typcially also wont to costs, legal fees, executor fees, accounting fees, widowed former drew up a willleoving everything minimize death taxes and escape settlement costs.' court costs, income taxes and inheritance taxes, to his only son. The two were both killed in on auto your estate could be diminished by 20 to 40 per- occident, the son dying hours after his father -- but Each parent, separately, has individual ob- cent. You've spent a lifetime creating that estate -- not before he hod legally inherited everything. ;ectives. For example, the father might be con- now hoVviabout investing a few hours to find out When the son died, his wife inherited only $25,000 cerned about what would happen to the property if how to leave more of it to your family. and half the rest. Distant cousins got a big shore he were to die and his wife to remar-ry. The mother, Here at Farm Bureau, we're .fortunate to have a with two sets of estate settlement costs and taxes on the other hand, may be secretly concerned Farm Bureau Insurance Group agency force of taking 0 big chunk of the money. about her obi lily to manage the operation if her trained career agents and estate planners to assist +You °don't need money to have on estate h~sband were to die. Farm Bureau members and insureds. Think about Ffoblem. A young couple with three children didn't The children -- the on-form heirs and off-farm the questions raised in this article, the questions have any money so they didn't bother to draw up a heirs -- mO!y be other sources of obiectives. They left unasked by your family members, and make it wfll bu t they as ked their brother to toke core of the face enormous uncertainty. We've 0/1 seen cases a point to answer them now -- while you can. JULY 1, 1976 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 15 Agriculture and Trade Were U.S.A. Building Blocks The balance of payments the same effect as inflation. merely reflects the dollar Hence, when we have a difference between how much positive balance of payments, we buy from overseas and then the position of our dollar how much we sell overseas. is more sound. Nations must sell in order to buy. By selling overseas, Thus, as we reflect over the .income is generated to buy nation's most basic industry - the products needed from - agriculture -- and its con- foreign sources. tribution to the well-being of If we bought more overseas this and many other nations, than we sold, we would end up we should be thankful that we with a negative balance of live in this land of such great payments. If that negative opportunities. For it is only in figure gets too big, our dollar a nation where agriculture becomes less stable in in- and freedom are allowed to ternational markets. If other prosper that such miracles as nations lose faith in our a plentiful food supply and the currency, then our money highest level of living in the buys less overseas -- which is world are possible. --;:- Lf1 THE ~;"ij)y FREDDIE COMPUTER -.1 Farm --z.. Records Service Saves Time & Money Freddie Computer can help you • easy • Take advantage of fast Make the right decisions and plans depreciation, investment credit, for the future. Make more money in capital gains _ Save intere5t • your farming operation by using Complete family records. Records good, sound management practices for partnerships, farm corporations, • Secure adequate operating capital estate planning. Use the attached and fina ncing • Ma ke tax reporting coupon for complete details. THE SOONER YOU START THE BETTER YOU'LL LIKE IT! ---------------------------------------- Sendfo: F REDDI E COMPUTE R, coo Bernie Bishop, Michigan Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 960, Lansing 48904 NAME ADDRESS PAGE 16 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1976 Your money works as hard as you do with the improved Personalized coverage for your particular needs! Lower cover- And options, FarmOwners offers more than any other . . . age rating! You won't find them on most insurance policies specially developed for Michigan farmers. You and your but you sure will on the improved FarmOwner* Farm Bureau Agent literally build the kind of coverage that's right for your place and your operation. Twenty-three new or extra benefits in FarntOwiters Many of them not even offered by other companies. Most of them Find out today how you can get improved and personalized with better and fuller coverage for your particular farming FarmOwoeracoverage. Call your neighborhood Farm Bureau operation. A g e n t . . . in the Yellow Pages. FARM BUREAU INSURANCE GROUP. Farm Bureau Mutual • Farm Bureau Life • Community Service Insurance