Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau • November 15, 1990 • 111=1 YEUTTER CALLS ON MICHIGAN AGRICULTURE "We're in a global marketplace. We've got to learn to function in fhat environment, " says Yeutter. • United States Secretary of Agriculture Clayton Yeutter was in Michigan recently, stopping at the MSU Beef Research facility Yeutter. "The biggest subsidizer in the world, by far, is the European Community. They spend more on export subsidies each to meet with staff and reporters before year alone than we spend on all of our farm heading to the Curt Eubank dairy farm and programs combined." Bil-Mar Farms in Western Michigan on a Republican Party campaign blitz. According to Yeutter, the E.E.C. is spend- ing over $11 billion annually for export International trade seemed to be the theme subsidies, outspending U.S. agriculture 20 during his address at MSU, where Yeutter to 1. Yeutter also gave an example of the touched on the 1990 Farm Bill, the seemingly thoughtless export subsidy pro- Uruguay round of GAIT trade talks, and a gram by the E.E.C. $73 million boost in budget for research efforts. "The European Community just made a sale of some surplus meat products in the Farm Bill Middle East at a negative price," exclaimed Yeutter. "In other words; they used a sub- Yeutter expressed praise and optimism that sidy that was so large they paid that mid- agriculture had fared quite well, overall, in east country to take the beef off their developing a farm bill that's equitable for hands!" Secretary Clayton Yeutter, MFB President lack Laurie and Governor-elect John Engler met at everyone, likening the degree of difficulty MSU's Beef Research center recently during a campaign visit by Yeutter for Engler in the final to reaching a budget compromise. Research Funding Increases days of Engler's gubernatorial campaign. "We spent a lot of time on the 1990 farm Yeutter was pleased to announce a $73 • bill in a very complex situation this year, with budget deficit considerations, en- vironmental concerns, and the internation- million increase in allocations for research, although they had originally asked for $1{)() million, adding that any kind of an increase said Yeutter. "We have to carry ourselves. To do that, we need to make sure we have the research, technology and management petitive, adding that by the turn of the cen- tury there will be 6.2 billion people to feed in the world and that only .2 billion will al trade negotiations," said Yeutter. "There this year didn't come easy. The funds will skills to maintain our competitive base, all actually be in the domestic markets. was a reduction of just over $15.6 billion be allocated amongst the nation's land of which starts with research." for agriculture over the next five years." grant institutions. "If agriculture is going to be a growth in- Yeutter reiterated his stance on internation- dustry in the United States, it's going to Yeutter pointed out that a billion dollars in "We can't expect special advantages and al markets, and the role that research will have to come from selling outside the U.S. cuts is credited to the Acreage Reduction favors to carry us in international markets," play in making U.S. agriculture more com- It's that simple," said Yeutter. Program, about $3 billion to changes in Farmers Home loan and REA loan programs, making agriculture's real cut MICHIGAN'S RIGHT TO FARM Farmers Beware, Over 300 Complaints Filed With MDA more like $9 billion. Yeutter estimated that a one point drop in interest rates would Michigan's Right-to-Farm Act, originally Areas of concern under the guidelines most is meeting Right-to-Farm guidelines. '. soften the blow to agriculture by over $750 passed into law in 1981, underwent major often cited include: S. Farmer is informed of findings. revisions in 1987 to provide farm operations 6. Farms not meeting guidelines have 90 million in savings per year. protection from lawsuits when they are fol- -Lack of records on manure application. days to address problem. lowing generally accepted agricultural and -Lack of soil tests on a regular basis. 7. After 90 days with no attempt to comply, Trade Talks management practices. However, some -Lack of manure analysis. the farmer receives a second letter. Yeutter doesn't feel the current Uruguay farmers may be in for a rude awakening -Livestock which have free access to 8. After failure to respond, the case is sent round of trade talks, which are to be com- because they're not meeting their obliga- streams, lakes and waterways. to the DNR for further investigation. pleted by Dec. 1, 1990, will produce the tions under Right-to-Farm, according to -Not controlling runoff from livestock results agriculture is looki.ng for. MFB livestock specialist Kevin Kirk. facilities. "A commitment from the entire agricul- -Not incorporating liquid manure when tural industry is critical to maintain a heal- "Right now, I would say the whole round "Over 300 complaints have been filed with possible. thy, growing livestock industry in of trade talks will self-destruct because the MDA in the last 12 months," says Kirk. Michigan," says Kirk. "Farmers can get we're so far apart in views between the "Oddly enough, most of those complaints "MDA's role in Right-to-Farm is to assist further information from the Cooperative Eutopean Community and ourselves," said are being filed by other farmers in their farmers in obtaining protection under the Extension Service, Soil Conservation Ser- community. Eight of those complaints have act," says Kirk. "If MDA can't document .• vice, and Michigan Farm Bureau." been turned over to the Michigan Depart- that a farmer is following those guidelines, ment of Natural Resources, because farmers then a reciprocal agreement with the DNR - haven't complied with MDA recommenda- Don't miss the Right-to-Farm requires that the complaint be turned over tions developed during inspections." to the DNR for further investigation." workshop at MFB' s State Annual on Tues., Nov. 27, from J:45 p.m to 5:15 According to Kirk, of the 300 complaints If the DNR finds the facility is causing p.m., in Grand Rapids. Panel speakers filed, 40 percent have been hog operations, pollution, they will initiate regulatory ac- will include representatives from MSU, 32 percent pertain to dairy, and 9 percent tion. Those facilities are also open to respectively to beef, horse, chicken and MDA, and an attorney who has repre- nuisance litigation initiated by concerned turkey operations. sented several farmers in Right-to- citizens or local units of government. Recent passage of the "Polluters Pay" legis- Fanncases. Counties With Three or More Complaints Flied With MDA lations makes that threat even greater. The panel will also respond to ques- Ottawa 16 Allegan 14 Kent 13 MDA Procedures: 12 Van Bur. 9 Shla. 9 tions from the audience. The workshop Cass 1. An inspector is sent to the farm to inves- Barry 8 Branch 8 Saginaw 7 is designed to help you understand what 6 Jackson 6 Living. 5 tigate the complaint. Gratiot protections fanners can expect and Hillsdale 5 Ionia 5 Arenac 4 2. A farmer is not obligated to allow on-site Eaton 4 Huron 4 Ingham 4 inspection. what is expected of them under the Clare 3 Genesee 3 Lapeer 3 3. MDA inspector reports findings to pro- Right-to-Farm Act. Contact your coun- Lenawee 3 Monroe 3 Oakland 3 gram manager. ty Fann Bureau office for more infor- Tuscola 3 4. Program manager determines if operation mation. Capitol Corner Michigan Fann Weather Farm Business Outlook - • -+ -+ Michigan Farnl Ne\IVs •• November 15, 1990 COOPERA TIVE In Brief... EXTENSION Michigan Loses Ag Leader SERVICE The state's entire agricultural community mourns the loss of Doug Kostal of Ithaca, who AND FARMERS- lost his battle against cancer on Oct. 28. The highly respected and well-liked Kostal was appointed Michigan Director of ASCS in 1987 and in June was awarded the INTERDEPENDENT Administrator's Award in Washington D.C., the highest award given by ASCS. The former Gratiot County Farm Bureau President was also involved in Farm Bureau activities at the state level for several years. The Cooperative Extension Service (CES) has served Michigan farmers for over 75 years. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Jack and Renee Breslin Cancer Research During that time, CES has demonstrated the ability to take the research of our landgrant Center or to the Michigan Agricultural Leadership Program. university and Agricultural Experiment Station and deliver it in a practical and usable package to farmers across the state. This service has had a more positive impact on our lives than any other public program. Today the position of CES is being challenged by budget cuts at the state and federal level. Apple Growers Silent No Longer Its academic stature is challenged at landgrant universities and its usefullness is questioned in the country by many who wonder if the CES can "keep up" with similar services being A group of Washington apple growers, their industry devastated in 1989 by the controver- offered by private industry. sial Alar incident, have decided to fight back. The CES has an urgent need-for you! The need isn't for financial contribution, or your Several growers have formed the Alar Class Action Committee, and plan to file a class commitment of time and energy in a volunteer program, although they're important. More action lawsuit against CBS 60 Minutes, the National Resource Defense Council and other importantly, those of us in agriculture need to stand up and tell others how important CES defendants. They plan to file the suit December 1, if sufficient funds can be raised. If not, is to each of us personally, to the agricultural industry and to the future well-being of our all funds collected will be refunded, according to the committee. entire country. Irresponsible media and environmentalist groups must be held accountable for misleading By its very nature CES depends upon support from the federal, state and local levels of consumers, as in the case of the campaign labeling Alar, a chemical preservative used on government. All three levels need to witness a renewed commitment by members of the apples, as a cancer causing substance, say the growers. agricultural community who have used, and will continue to use, the CES. That means county commissioners need to hear, from you the farmer, the importance of their local Among the defendants is Fenton Communications, the public relations firm employed by support and funding. Your congressmen and legislators need to hear how important it is NRDC to orchestrate the media blitz. Since the Alar scare, an estimated 10 percent of they provide similar support at the state and federal level. Washington's apple producers have gone out of business. If Michigan farmers accept the responsibility of sharing what the CES has meant to us and every citizen of this country, in terms of a safe, efficient and plentiful food supply, then we'll continue to have the support for CES, to ensure its funire in our industry. John Deere Announces Cutbacks That's the bottom line of this whole discussion--now is the time for us to give back to the CES a little bit of what it has given us for over 75 years. We can back that commitment by Farm equipment sales sagged in August and September, causing one large manufacturer, to give CES, now and in the future. ~ t~ showing our elected officials, at all levels, the support the agricultural industry is willing a..c-R Deere and Company based in Moline, 111.,to announce production cutbacks and temporary plant closings effective Nov. 1. The firm plans. to implement the cutb~cks to avoid permanent layoffs of employees and (J Jack Laurie, President preven~ excessIv~ bUIldup of farm eqUIpment. In announcing the moves, Deere chairman Michigan Farm Bureau and chIef executIve officer Hans Becherer said the slowdown in farm equipment sales is the result of economic uncertainty caused by the budget stalemate in Congress and the effects of the Middle East crisis. Keep Environment Salt Free! Say It Isn~tSo 1990's Way To Condition Water Congress caught a l?t of flak for approving a $500,000 rural development grant to restore • No Salt Required • No Monthly Bill Lawrence Welk's bIrthplace, but that's small potatoes compared to the $J9 million grant they approved to study methane emissions from the flatulence of cows and other barnyard animals. • No Water Loss • No Maintenance Th~ m~tter came up once be.fore and was hooted out of the halls of Congress, but bad • No Plumbing • 90 Day Money Back legIslatIon has a way of commg back. The spending spree also included expenditures of i Required Guarantee $375,000 for a facelift of the U.S. House beauty parlor and $250000 to study the best placement of television lights on the Senate floor. ' *RESlDENTIAL .COMMERCIAL *INDUSTRIAL MAGNETICS PLUS Pesticide Record Keeping A Reality 2457 Grand River Drive Grand Rapids, MI49505 Users of restricted use pesticides will be r~quired to keep records for two years, containing INTERNATIONAL the n~e of the pro~uc~, the amount applIed, the approximate date of application, and the Independent DIIlrlbutor Q;C (616) 361-8986 1681 locatIOn of the applIcatIOn, as part of the new farm bill requirements. Proarealve Water CoodlUonlna Teclmoloay Call or Write for Free Brochure According to AFBF's Mark Ma~lyn, the legislation requires that the regulations be ~~veloped by th~ S~cre~ary of, Agnculture and put into effect within 180 days. However, It s unclear at thIS tIme If they 11 be ready for the 1991 growing season . ... FARItIERS PETROLEIJItI Under t~e provis~ons, state. and federal agencies dealing with pesticides, health or environ- ment,aIIssu.e~, WIll have dIrect ~ccess to the information through either the USDA or the ••• COOPERATIIIE, INC. state s pestICIde agency. PenaltIes for first time offenders cannot exceed $500, or $1,000 for a second offense. 1990 Year End Sale Coop Rear Farm Tires Michigan Farm News is Published 20 times annually: By the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and Public Relations Di,vision. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Michigan 48917, Post Office Box 30960 (Zip 48909); phone 1-517-323-7000. November 15 - December 31, 1990 Editorial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager. Big savings on selected ~cers: Michigan Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; VICe President Wayne Wood, Marlette; Administrative Director, Charles Burkett; Treasurer and Chief Rnancial Officer, Tom Parker; Secrelaly, William S. Wilkinson. popular lines and sizes. Directors: ~s~~ 1, Marlin ~, Cons~ti~; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Diane Homing, Mancheste~, District 4, !o~ Guthne, Delton; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood, Mar\ette; District Buy now and take 7, Larry SOlder, Hart; DI~tri~ 8, Lyle LeCronier, Freeland; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; ~Istnct 11, Robert ~ahmhoff, Baraga. At-large: David Conklin, Corunna; Jack Laurie, Cass City; delivery in the spring. Faye Adam,Snover; Richard Leach, Saginaw. Promotion and Education, Holly Porter Manchester. Young Farmers Karen Stoneman, Ithaca. " Contact your local FPC retail center or participating member cooperative today. Michigan Farm Nevvs ITOL o -. November 15, 1990 o :D Z m :D FEDERAL BUDGET SUMMARY Although they were 27 days late, Congress finally passed the new federal budget for the REA direct loans would be reduced by approximately 25 percent, and REA loan guarantees year, taking effect Oct. 1. The bill contains provisions to reduce the deficit by $492 billion increased correspondingly while shifting about 50 percent of FmHA fann loans from direct over 5 years, through a combination of spending cuts and tax increases. loans to guaranteed loans over the next 5 years. The vote in the U.S. House was 228 to 200 and me U.S. Senate vote was 54 to 45. Fann Establishes user fees to recover the costs of inspecting common carrier passengers arriving Bureau strongly opposed the bill, calling for a spending freeze without any tax increases. in the U.S. for agricultural products and pests by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Details of the package include: Service. Tax Increases Eliminates spending increases provided in the 1990 Farm Bill passed by the House for food -Increases the top marginal income tax rate to 31 percent. stamps and other programs in the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committee. The above -Increases the amount of income subject to the 1.45 percent Medicare payroU tax from spending reductions for agriculture amount to $14.9 billion over 5 years. the cu"ent $51,300 to $125,000. -Limits the amount of itemized deductions and personal exemptions for upper income Budget Process Changes Include: taxpayers. Extending the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings (GRH) law through 1995, originally scheduled -Increases the federal gas tax by 5 cents per gallon. to expire in 1993. -Permanently extends the telephone excise tax. -Renews and increases the airline ticket tax. For fiscal year 1991, which began October 1, 1990, through fiscal year 1993, all discre- -Doubles the beer tax from the cu"ent 16 cents per six-pack to 32 cents. tionary spending will be divided into three categories: defense, international and domestic. -Increases the wine taxfrom the cu"ent 3 cents per 750 milliliter bottle to 21 cents. Caps would be placed on each of these spending categories. Automatic across-the-board -Increases the tax on 100-proof distilled spirits from the cu"ent $12.50 per gaUon to spending cuts at the end of each Congressional session would be used to enforce the caps, $13.50 per gaUon. however, the cuts would only apply to the offending category of spending (i.e. defense, -Imposes a 10-percent luxury tax on certain price levels of boats, planes, cars,furs and international and/or domestic). jewelry. -Increases the cigarette tax in two phases from the cu"ent 16 cents per pack to 24 cents For fiscal years 1994 and 1995, there would be a single cap over total discretionary per pack. spending rather than the three separate caps for defense, international and domestic spending. Tax Exemptions Extends to January 1, 1992, the current deduction of 25 percent of health insurance Requires that any increase in spending or reductions in revenues must be paid for or offset premiums for self-employed persons. elsewhere by spending cuts or higher taxes. If this new "pay-as-you-go" technique is not met, automatic spending cuts will be used to make up for the increased deficit. Agriculture Spending Reductions Establishes a service fee on CCC dairy purchases of 5 cents per cwt. in 1991 and 11 cents The above outline of tax increases, spending cuts and budget reform is only a brief summary per cwt. thereafter to offset costs of the dairy support program. The fee would be refunded of the new budget bill which contains over 1000 pages, weighs 24 pounds and stands over annually to producers who did not increase production from the previous year's level. 10 inches high. Legislative Mailing Addresses: State SenatelHouse, State Capitol Building, Lansing, MI 48933 - Telephone Numbers: State Senate (517) 373-2400; State House (517) 373-0135 U.S. Senate, Washington, D.C. 20510fl].S. House of Representatives, Washington, D.C. 20515 - Telephone Number: U.S. Capitol (202) 224-3121 MFB'S YOUNG FARMER FINALISTS SELECTED Distinguished Young Farmer MFB's eight finalists in the Young Farmer's Outstanding Young Farm Woman and the Distinguished Young Farmer contests have been selected by judges, with the final decision to be made at MFB 's state annual in Grand Rapids, after further interviewing. MFB presents Matthew Dutcher the award annually to selected young farmers based on their farming background, leader- Owosso, Shiawassee County Agricultural Background: ship and community involvement. The award is sponsored by Great Lakes Hybrids, Inc. In a family partnership on a 115 head dairy opera- .' tion, in addition to raising 533 acres of com, 165 Outstanding Young Farm Woman acres of soybeans, 41 acres of wheat and 180 acres of alfalfa. Graduate of MSU's Agricultural Technol- gy Dairy Course. Carmen C. Conant Central Lake, Antrim County Agricultural Background: Herdsman on a 40 cow dairy operation with a total of Mark Lauwers 850 acres operated. Conant also works as a field tech- Almont, St. Clair County nician with the Antrim County ASCS office. Wire: Christine Aericultural Backeround: In a family partnership on a 2,398 acre cash crop operation, raising 990 acres of com, 750 acres of Patricia L. Fisher • soybean, 340 acres of wheat, 55 acres of navy St. Louis, Gratiot County beans and 110 acres of sugarbeets. Past District Husband: Troy Fisher sales manager for a seed company. Graduate of Agricultural Background: MSU with an Agricultural Engineering degree. Currently employed as a florist with Heritage Flowers in addition to working with her husband on the family's 1330 acre cash crop, livestock operation. Phil Tuggle Ithaca, Gratiot County Wire: Lisa Barbara J. Hoskins Agricultural Background: Adrian, Lenawee County Owner operator of a registered Angus herd, and Husband: Mark E. Hoskins, employed as herdsman on a 300 sow farrow to Agricultural Background: finish operation, raising 17 acres of com, 30 acres Employed as a herdsman with her husband on a 90 of hay, 10 acres of dry beans, with 13 acres of im- head registered holstein dairy operation, in addition to proved pasture. Graduate of MSU's Agricultural 600 acres of alfalfa and another 600 acres of corn and Technology Livestock Program. soybeans. Louis E. Wirbel Yvonne Jakubik Midland, Midland County Whittemore, Iosco County Wire: Kathleen Husband: Jeff Jakubik, Aericultural Background: Agricultural Background: Involved in a cash crop/fann market operation, in- Actively involved in the daily management of a 90 cluding 68 acres of com, 20 acres of sugar beets, 70 cow dairy operation with her husband in a family acres of dry beans, 42 acres of soybeans, 4 acres of partnership, assisting with one of the three milkings strawberries, 2 acres of mixed vegetables, 6 acres of on a daily basis. The operation also includes 375 acres melons, 16 acres of sweet com, 1.5 acres of • of crops. potatoes. Michigan FarlTl Ne\Ns -. November 15, 1990 The latest National Weather Service 3D-day outlook calls for temperatures on the cool side, with a 55% to 60% chance of below normal TOPSOIL readings. At Marquette, normal daily highs MOISTURE range from 45 F to 30 F by the end of Novem- ber; normal lows decreasing from 30 F to 17 F. TEMPERATURE PRECIPITATION At Detroit, normal daily highs start out at 56 F J 2" to 3" falling to 41 F by month's end; normal lows Expected beginning at 37 F, ending the month at 27 F. 3O-D8Y Stale Avg. The 3D-day outlook for precipitation is calling for near normal amounts over the southern Lower Peninsula, with a 55% chance for below normal precipitation over the rest of Michigan. Normal precipitation ranges between 2" to 3" over Michigan, with locally heavier amounts in uate the snowbelts. ] The latest 90-day outlook puts Michigan in a region dividing cold air to the west and warm For The Week Temperature Cumul. Grow P.reclpltatlon Norm. air to the southeast. With such a pattern, storm Ending: 11/4 Max. Min. Deg.Days Last 4 Since Since Apr. 1 tracks can be expected to pass close to 1990 Norm. Wks. Apr.1 69 23 1,939 2,042 4.82 20.35 22.87 Michigan, making the period a wet one. There's Marquette Escanaba 74 34 1,847 1,789 2.03 20.58 21.91 a 55% probability that precipitation will be Traverse City 75 27 2,601 2,349 2.19 23.14 21.25 above normal over the entire state. Tempera- Alpena 75 22 2,398 2,267 2.80 19.13 20.72 tures are predicted to be near normal over the Fremont 64 22 2,447 2,570 5.07 26.96 21.48 Lower Peninsula, with a 55% chance of below Port Sanilac 61 30 2,310 2,672 3.99 24.14 19.60 normal temperatures over the Upper Peninsula. Standish 61 21 2,402 2,672 4.10 24.14 19.60 Grand Rapids 74 24 2,900 2,931 4.24 29.01 22.95 PawPaw 71 26 2,869 2,931 5.49 29.01 22.95 Information from the Agricultural Weather Coldwater 74 25 2,808 2,874 3.28 23.51 21.82 lansing 73 23 2,874 2,874 4.13 23.51 21.82 Office, Michigan State University. Imlay City 65 26 2,565 2,870 3.85 22.92 20.81 ,1 Fruit Yields Disappointing Most Michigan fruit growers were find- ing smaller yields than anticipated as they continued harvesting fall fruit crops, ac- cording to the Michigan Agricultural Statistics Service. Poor pollinating weather 1 this spring apparently had a bigger effect than many realized. Only the plum crop Working for yourself, you As a Farm Bureau member, picked out slightly higher than earlier can't afford unscheduled you can choose from three forecasts. Quality of the apple crop was time off for a major illness. traditional Blue Cross Blue excellent. Many growers reported surface Regular health care is vital. Shield Comprehensive blemishes on plums. Cool, cloudy, rainy days during harvest slowed sugar develop- Major Medical plans, starting ment in grapes. That's where we can as low as $60.12 a month. help, with the health care The Michigan apple crop is forecast at 750 insurance you need, at the Each plan offers you Blue million pounds, over a fifth lower than last down-to-earth membership Cross Blue Shield compre- year's harvest, and 6 percent less than ex- pected on Aug. 1. Nationally the crop is rates you can afford. hensive major medical expected to reach 9.47 billion pounds, 5 insurance at low group percent below a year ago. rates. The main difference . is: as the deductible goes up, Grape production is expected to close out at 53,000 tons, almost 25 percent higher the premium goes down. than the 1989 harvest, but 9 percent less But, whichever plan you than was expected on Sept. 1. The U.S. choose, you'll be able to grape crop was forecast at 5.46 million As sure as you're on your own, you're not alone. , . afford the regular health tons, 8 percent below last season. care you need to stay viable. What matters to you matters to us. ~ For further information HERITAGE BUILDING SYSTEMS call 1-800-292-2680 or contact your local Farm 1-800-643-5555 FREE INFORMATION PACKAGE Bureau agent. 30 x 40 x 10 .........•...........•....... $3,785 40 x 60 x 12 •............................ $6,870 50 x 75 x 14 ..•..•...................... $10,590 CocnnMn:l8I-=~~~~ 60 ~ x 100 x 16 .•.......•.......••........ :~mncMrd.a..-a.bla. $17,750 c:.: WHERE BELONGING +,~ FOB Nor1hem, or ~ PW1ta. c.P tDcMy tor prtclng on BuIIdInga, SMelIng. llim. ~F..-8nd~ MAKES A ... .. 1t:HIGAN FAR" IWREAV ...• DIFFERENCE. _. FIUIIIU OF COMPANIES Michigan Farln NelNs -. November 15, 1990 Election 1990 Results Engler's Victory Called A Victory For Agriculture "John Engler's successful bid for Governor is a victory for Michigan agriculture!" That was the reaction of Michigan Farm Bureau President Jack Laurie to Engler's estimated 19,134 vote win in the gubernatorial race. I The governor-elect had recieved Farm Bureau's AgriPAC endorsement as a "Friend of Agriculture." "The Farm Bureau members on our county candidate evaluation committees across the state told AgriPAC in September that Water Dog absorbs up to 400 times its own their industry would fare better with Engler NEW FROM FARMHAND: Farmhand's Model XL740 and XL940 loaders now mount both weight in water to help preventfuel con- as governor," Laurie said. "His record of tamination, cloggedfilters,fuel Une freeze- two wheel drive andfront wheel assist Maxxum 5120, 5130 and 5140 tractors; the model 22 service in the Senate, where he proved he ups, and tank rust. According to the was indeed a friend of agriculture, was a loader mounts the two-wheel Maxxum tractors. Loader features include Farmhand's exclusive Quick-Tach for fast tractor hook-up and parking stands. Typical lift height on the XL940 loader manufacturer, Water Dog is available in major factor in their endorsement recom- mendations. They also believed that his is 12'8", XL740 is 10'6" and model ~2 is 10'4". Options include heavy duty buckets, manure sizes tofitfarm tractors, combines, trucks, farm background provided him with a bet- fork, grapplefork, and large round bale spear. For more information, contact Farmhand, Inc., small engines, and farm fuel storage tanks. ter understanding and appreciation of what P.O. Box 1500, Excelsior, MN 55331 or caU (515) 236-6571. For more information, contact AGA Nation- is needed to make Michigan agriculture a al Products Group at 1-800 876-9423. viable, growing industry and a major con- tributor to the state's economy." Laurie said he was proud that Farm Bureau members followed through on AgriPAC's endorsement by going to the polls and voting for Engler. l\t1:ichigan Farm Bureau "Farm Bureau looks forward to working with the governor-elect. His positions on Prescription Prq ram issues important to us -- issues such as tax reform and education -- closely parallel our farmer-developed policies, so we are con- fident that this working relationship will be productive for Michigan agriculture," he said. MFB's AgriP AC endorsements fared quite well in the general election. Unofficially, of the 110 endorsements made, 99 can- ......................... ................................... didates were successful in their bid for an ..................................... ......................................... .• ......•...•.•.•.•.•...•.•.•...•...•.•...•.•••.•.•...•• aaa.aaa.a . . .•.•.•...•••• a. a .•.••... a. a ••..• a a a a •.•.• a.•..•. a a a aaaa.aaa.aaa.a .• a. a a a ..a elected position, a 90% success rate . . a a. a.. <.:. >>:-:-:-: <.:-:.:-:-:-:.: -:.:<-:-:.:.:.: -:.:<-:-:.:-: -:.: -:-: a:-:-:.:-:-: a: a:.: -:.:.:-:- >:-: California Voters H •••• :::::::::,::::::="",{{{,)),::,((:::::m::::::,::::':mm.:.::::.:::::::::.:::::,:::::::.:,:::.:::::.:::,.:::::.:::::::,:::.:::::::::: ..:::::::::,:.:::::.:::::::::::::::::.:::::,:.i:: Reject "Big Green" California voters rejected "Big Green," an 32 Page Discount Drug ambitious environmental proposal that would have given the state the strictest Catalog. Prescription and pesticide and auto emission standards in non-prescription the United States. medication at savings Environmentalist and state assemblyman Tom Hayde, the major sponsor of the bill, up to 80%. hoped the measure would help eliminate California's polution woes and make foods free of substances that cause cancer, no matter how small the risk. But opponents of the bill said the plan was too expensive and would have raised food and energy prices significantly. Critics also said the measure would have cost state taxpayers an additional $10 billion annual- ly. MFB's director of Commodity Activities FElQJ)JRUG- PRESCRIPTION SERVICE and Research, Ken Nye, says defeat of Big Green should help to blunt similar efforts M .... F.ld You M ••• F.ld You in other parts of the country, but that Br.nd G.n.rlc S.y. Drug Str.ngth Drug Str.ngth Br.nd G.n.rlc Say. farmers can't let their guard down. Amoxll Caps (100) 250mg 19.95 10.95 4 5 ~ Premarln Tab. 0.3mg 16.95 7.95 5 3 ~ "In the long run, we want to do some things 500mg 34.50 17.95 4 8 ~ 0.625mg 22.50 8.95 6 0 ~ that are going to improve the safety of the Darvocet-N Tabs(l00)50mg 20.95 11.95 4 3 ~ 1.25mg 29.95 9.95 6 7 ~ food supply, do some things that are going 100mg 36.50 14.95 59 ~ 2.5mg 51.75 14.95 7 1 ~ to protect the environment even more," fnderal Tabs (l00) 10mg 19.50 4.95 7 5 ~ Provera Tab. (l00) 10mg 41.25 16.95 59 ~ says Nye. "However, we have to make sure 20mg 25.95 5.95 77 ~ Siow-K Tabs (100) 14.75 6.95 5 3 ~ 40mg 32.95 6.95 79 ~ Synthrold Tabs (l00) O.15mg 16.25 3.25 8 0 ~ those things are balanced and equitable for 60mg 42.25 7.95 8 1 ~ O.2mg 18.75 3.50 81 ~ both producers and consumers." 80mg 50.75 8.95 8 2 ~ 0.3mg 24.25 3.95 84 ~ Kef/ex Cops (l00) 250mg 89.95 19.95 7 8 ~ Theo-Dur SA Tabs 100mg 13.95 8.95 36 ~ Big Green had national an~ international 500mg 172.75 29.95 8 3 ~ 200mg 18.75 10.95 4 2 ~ trade implications because It would have Lanoxln Tabs (100) 0.25mg 7.75 2.95 6 2 ~ 300mg 21.95 12.95 41 ~ prevented farm products treated with Laslx Tabs (l00) 20mg 12.50 4.95 6 0 ~ Transderm-Nltro 5mg 37.95 17.95 53 ~ banned pesticides from being exported or 40mg 16.25 5.95 6 3 ~ Patch (30) 10mg 42.95 24.95 4 2 ~ transported through the state. Of the $22.7 80mg 25.25 11.95 53 ~ 15mg 46.95 28.95 38 ~ billion worth of foreign farm products Mlcro-K Entencaps 10m Eq 13.25 7.95 40 ~ Tylenol w/Codelne '3 18.75 7.95 5 8 ~ entering the U.S., 73% came through Motrln Tabs (100) 400mg 14.95 7.95 4 7 ~ Tab. (l00) '4 33.25 11.95 6 4 ~ 600mg 19.75 10.95 4 5 ~ Valium Tab. (l00) 2mg 28.95 6.95 7 6 ~ Californian ports. Another 84% of the $3.3 800mg 24.25 15.95 3 4 ~ 5mg 43.25 7.95 8 2 ~ billion worth of U.S. goods exported from 10mg 70.50 10.95 84 ~ California ports were produced in the state. Michigan Farm NelNs • •• November ....... •••••••• 15, 1990 ...... ••••••• ,., 1• . ••••• ~.rl MARKETS •••• 'l•••~~ .r~ '.. . . •••• ,j ••• Seasonal Commodity Price Trends CATTLE An unusual situation, to say the least. Cattle prices -- like their red meat counterpart, Record Net Income The USDA says net cash farm income will probably be a record high this year, some- E~RM ~:;. •••••••• •••••••• • t? pork -- are remaining unusually strong at a time when everyone expects them to be soft. With wholesale attention turning to where between $59 billion and $63 billion. However, higher prices paid for oil and other production inputs as well as other BUSINESS Wheat turkeys, the market expected to see wholesale beef demand and prices to dis- play some slippage. At best, the cutout has factors darken prospects for 1991, accord- ing to USDA's Outlook Report. OUTLOOK Corn BT been able to lose only about $2 off its recent highs. Because these prices have held firm, E.E.C. Bans U.S. packers have been able to maintain cash Pork And Beef Imports bids just under the $80 mark in most loca- Soybeans BT tions. Under the guise of health standards, the European Economic Community (EEC) is banning all American pork imports, effective Oct. 31, and all beef imports, effective Dec. 31. Nearly everyone has been painting a nega- According to MFB livestock specialfst, Kevin Kirk, the ban will mean a trade loss of $10 tive picture for the cattle market based on to $12 million in pork sales, and a loss of $1 (){)million in beef sales when combined with Hogs TP ideas that supply and demand were becom- a previous hormone ban. ing, or going to become, imbalanced. The • key features behind this reasoning were the American Farm Bureau has joined with other members of the Meat Industry Trade Policy increasing placements in the feedlots and Council to request that U.S. Trade Representative, Carla Hills, reactivate a complaint filed Cattle TP deteriorating demand due to recessionary in 1987 against the EEC's Third Country Meat Directive. That directive establishes i Index: = Higher Prices; ~ = Lower Prices; factors. unfairly-stringent inspection requirements for meat imported from non-EEC countries. TP= Topping; BT= Bottoming; ? = Unsure It may be that the recession variable has Because the same strict standards do not apply to EEC meat processing facilities, the EEC been overplayed. As explained in the hog inspection directive effectively serves as a non-tariff trade barrier, according to Kirk. article, meat demand has gotten more inelastic, i.e., not as responsive to price. A recession may eventually impact beef demand, but it may not happen as quickly as some envision. South American Soy Acreage Declining The 1987 crash on Wall Street is an example. Retail sales that holiday season were very good despite fears that an economic collapse was on the horizon . Even if Argentine farmers plant more soybeans next year, the continuing economic crisis in Brazil will cause the total South American output to fall for 1990-91, analysts say. Prices are not high enough to encourage Brazilian farmers to grow soybeans, and they have little • HOGS money to finance planting. The Brazilian government has placed increased emphasis on food stuffs such as com and wheat at the expense of soybean acreage. For the second year in a row, cash hog prices are managing to perform a remarkable feat -- the ability to move stubbornly higher in contrast to seasonal patterns that indicate that CFTC Reauthorization Falters markets should be headed lower. As a producer you shouldn't be taking this contraseasonal strength lightly. Because of the extraordinarily high seasonal price, you should be an Efforts by the Senate to secure passage of a bill to strengthen and reauthorize the aggressive marketer. But you need to keep in mind that the market is telling you something Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) appears to be dead for this year. -- that supply and demand are "in balance." Controversy over efforts by the Treasury Department to gain control over some futures markets had created tremendous opposition among agricultural groups. The reauthoriza- Futures traders have chosen to focus on the idea that an energy-driven recession is at hand, tion package, approved by both the Senate and House agricultural committees, was held and that it will soften the demand for not only pork, but all meats. Recent figures indicate hostage in the Senate by Senators supporting transfer of some jurisdiction from CFTC to that consumers spend only 2 1/2% of their disposable income on red and white meat. That's the Security Exchange Commission. down from 3 1/2% a decade ago. Red meat alone has dropped to 2% from 3% over the same period. The portion is becoming small enough that meat demand is becoming more inelastic Without reauthorization, CFTC will operate under its old authority. Many of the changes in relation to disposable income and economic performance. called for by the reauthorization have already been implemented by the CFTC and the exchanges. Without the expansion in the pork industry and the relatively small inventories in the freezer, the future still has a certain amount of optimism. In another 30 days, the focus in the wholesale market turns back to the red meats from turkey. At the same time, pork supplies Japanese Farmland Investments Up begin to seasonally decline. If the supply and demand forces are in relative balance now, Japanese investors bought about $456 million worth of U.S. farmland last year, compared that suggests that cash prices will have to go higher yet during the winter to keep the two with $289 million spent in 1988. Prior to that, the biggest single-year investment in U.S. in balance. farmland by Japan was $22 million in 1982, according to USDA analyst Christine Bolling. Overall, Bolling said about $1 billion worth of U.S. farmland, that USDA researchers know SOYBEANS about, has been bought with Japanese money, partially through joint ventures that help to mask the extent of Japanese ownership. The October crop report was friendly -- the national average yield was shaved by 0.18 bushel/acre -- but the market shrugged it off under harvest pressure. Harvest pressure has peaked. Three of the five largest soy producers, Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota, are all but CPI Takes Another Jump • done with their bean harvest. Led by skyrocketing gasoline prices, the consumer price index for September jumped .8%, equal to the August increase, according to a recent Labor Department report. Other The "triple base" farm bill will allow program participants crop flexibility on 15% of base substantial factors in the rising cost of living were medical care, school tuition and acres. Some of those flex acres will be planted to soybeans. Unless new-com futures fall entertainment. Food and housing also rose by smaller amounts. substantially, we do not expect major acreage shifts. If demand meets our expectations, the market will be calling for more bean acres in 1991, not worrying about too many soybeans The combined effect of the consumer price index increases was to raise the annualized planted on base acres. inflation rate to 6.2% over the past 12 months, compared to a 4.7% rate for the 1989 calendar year. Analysts agree that, barring a sudden resolution of the Middle East crisis, the inflation A soybean marketing loan at $4.92 ($5.02 less a 2% origination fee) -- will not come into rate for 1990 will almost certainly exceed 6%. play in the coming year. When the operational details -- those all-important how-it-works pieces that Congress did not define -- are worked out, we will give this new soybean program closer attention . Dairy Market At A Glance .t The current ~rice slide ~mthe National Cheese Exchange is hurting the M-W price badly. WHEAT AND FEED GRAINS The down SIde potentIal shaved $2.02 off October's M-W price series when it was announced in November, bringing the price near $10.50 per hundredweight for 3.5 milk. United States agricultural policy is in turmoil. The Washington budget fiasco has forced Milk production bounced back suddenly in mid-summer at the same time cheesemakers cuts in U.S. farm payments and GAIT negotiations are uncertain, but still proceeding. The were staring at massive inventories and the collapse of nonfat- dry-milk prices last summer. significance is, in order to make us uncompetitive, Europe doesn't have to concede anything, Some stabilizing of cheese prices is likely in the coming weeks. all they have to do is stall. It's been a tactical blunder to simultaneously subsidize exports and reduce acreage. Be prepared for a rollercoaster ride in wheat prices over the coming months. While the trade language in the budget is aimed at keeping the pressure on the EC and other trading partners to reach a successful conclusion to talks under the Uruguay Round of the The new 5-year budget package passed by Congress contains language calling for a $1 GAIT t~at are ~nding in December, Congress also inserted some loopholes to get around billion increase in U.S. export subsidies of agricultural commodities in fiscal 1993 if a new these stnct reqUIrements. international agreement to substantially reduce farm subsidies is not in place by mid-1992. For example, the provisions can be dropped if Congress uses a parliamentary maneuver to The budget language also requires USDA to institute a marketing loan program for wheat delay quick passage of any agreement ultimately signed by U.S. trade negotiators. Current- and feed grains, allowing the agency to waive minimum levels for crop acreage reduction ly, a so-called "fast-track". ~angement re9uir~s Congress to take a vote, without any programs. The marketing loans would allow producers to repay their government loans at amendments to the pact, wIthm 60 to 90 legIslatIve days after the agreement is signed. below-loan-rate market prices. Furthermore, if a trade agreement is not implemented by June 30, 1993, USDA would have to consider waiving some of the programs, such as A primary U.S. export subsidy is the export bonus program, which targets the sale of triple-base and other farm spending cuts, that are part of the 5-year deficit-reduction commodities, such as wheat, to foreign markets where the EC is also attempting to sell its package. The triple-base program would, in effect, lop off 15% of U.S. farm acres from the subsidized commodities. USDA will be authorized to spend 475 million dollars on the government subsidies they now enjoy . export bonus program during fiscal 1991. From MFB's Commodity Activities and Research Division (517) 323-7000 ext. 2023 • Michigan Farm Ne\Ns DISCUSSION TOPIC: "Inheritance Tax" -. November 15, 1990 T he state of Michigan often prides itself as being a progressive, legislative trendset- Estate planning is difficult enough without having to worry about coming up with the ter. But in the case of inheritance taxes, money to pay the state inheritance tax. Michigan is operating under an antique Your Fann Bureau organization will make statute that was enacted almost 100 years inheritance tax reform a major priority in II. ago. the coming legislative session. "Thanks to economic growth, estates are DISCUSSION QUESTIONS GoupRrChBSlng large enough today that people often have PASSING DOWN THE FARM to sell their fann or business in order to pay the state inheritance tax," said Ron Nelson, legislative counsel for Michigan Farm 1. Are inheritance tax reforms needed 1990-91 WINTER STEEL SALE in Michigan? Yes No Bureau. "In 1975, the U.S. Department of 2. Has there been farm property in Agriculture estimated that one-quarter of your area that had to be sold to pay High Quality Steel Replacement Parts all fann real estate sales were for the pur- inheritance taxes ? Yes No pose of estate settlement - individuals re- quired to sell off a portion or all of their real 3. If a farm family wants to pass their Dependable Performance estate simply to settle the economic burden property from one generation to of the tax." another, what steps would your Group Purchasing SAVINGS! group members recommend? Nelson said that under federal law, an es- tate tax is levied only on estates over 4. If Michigan would adopt the December 3 - January 5 provisions similar to the federal es- $600,000. "But the state inheritance tax tate tax, how would it affect members Quality • Dependability • Savings applies to all inheritances over $100. While of your group? there are some helpful exemptions, such as the 50 percent exemption of real estate 5. What steps can Farm Bureau mem- Contact Your County Office for Local Vendor Information or enrolled in P.A. 116, everyone is affected bers take to ensure the passage of in- heritance tax reforms through the CaU 1-800-292-2680 ext 2015 by this death-tax law." legislature? The current system has a major impact on estate planning, Nelson said. "Many people who have liquid assets will set up residence in another state, such as Florida, to escape AVr\ILABLE N()w! SPECT:\CUL.\R DISCOUNTS! Michigan's death tax. But a fanner can't really pick up and move his fannland or other business facilities to another state." Nelson said a review of nearly 40,000 tax- payers who left Michigan for other states in 1984-85 found that 86 percent had moved to states that had eliminated their death or inheritance tax. It is estimated that Michigan will have lost nearly $700 mil- lion in income generation between 1985 and 1990 because of this net out-migration of taxpayers, he said. Legislative efforts to reform the state in- heritance tax have focused on three bills: S.B. 1, introduced by Sen. Nick Smith, provided for a 50 perc.ent reduction in the inheritance tax to be phased in over three years with the 25 percent level starting Jan. ~is winter, experience the perfect get a way! For nine 1, 1991; a 37.5 percent level on Jan. 1, ~ ~elaxing days, roundtrip from Los Angeles, the superb 1992; and the full 50 percent beginning Jan. 1, 1993. Michigan Fann Bureau strongly new Crown Odyssey will take you to the most breathtaking of supported the bill, but it was vetoed by the festive resorts along the Mexican Riviera. You'll thrill to Gov. Blanchard. The Senate overrode the Governor's veto, but the House override dazzling Acapulco, feel the romance of Puerto Vallarta and fall attempt was unsuccessful. in love with sleepy Zihuatanejo. Included is a unique call at the Following the veto of S.B. 1, Sen. Smith unearthly beauty of Cabo San Lucas at the tip of Baja California. introduced S.B. 1024. This bill would phase in the "pick-up tax". It is very similar The superb new Crown Odyssey incorporates stunning to the original version of S.B. 1 and has innovations which have set new standards for shipboard living. been passed by the Senate. Yet for all her elegance, she continues Royal Cruise Line's H.B. 5914, introduced by Rep. Roland tradition of warm, friendly service, outstanding cuisine and Niederstadt, targets business and agricul- ture (including forestry) with a minimal exclusive features - such as the famed Host Program and increase in the personal exemption for in- American Heart Association cuisine-that are found only on an dividuals. The bill provides a 100 percent exemption on all farm property (both real Odyssey. Reserve early and save! and personal) inherited by close relatives and for family owned and operated busi- nesses. The measure has a three-year AIHJ:\RD THE CR()\VN ODYSSEY phase-in period, beginning in 1991. It has Special Sailing not yet been approved by either the House January 12,1991 or Senate. YOUR SPECIAL BONUS AMENITIES! Personally Hosted by Jack Laurie "MFB policy favors total repeal of the in- heritance tax and adoption of the 'pick-up * Michigan Farm Bureau President tax' ," Nelson said. "That would bring us into line with 29 other states that have adopted all the provisions of the federal estate tax and now receive a share through the pick-up tax." CALL Farm Bureau Nelson said that the Blanchard Member Travel Service at administration's opposition to inheritance tax reform focuses on the cost - estimated ** 1-800-354-4272 by the Department of Treasury at $80 mil- lion a year. "But we estimate that the * agricultural portion of that amounts to less than $5 million a year," he said. "Further- more, if inheritance tax reform is enacted, we believe that within five years, the ag- gregate amount of taxes collected will about balance out. That's because people --....... r-.... j will have less incentive to locate their residence out of state in order to avoid the inheritance tax levy. In addition, state ad- •••••••••• 0.0 ••• 0 •••••••••• ministrative costs would be reduced." Michigan Farm News -. November 15, 1990 PROTECT YOURSELF WITH SMOKE DETECTORS AND FIRE EXTINGUISHERS } smoke enters the detection chamber more If a fire breaks out in your home, smoke is Units with UL or PM labeling are designed quickly. one of the first products to form. That's why to beep at one-minute intervals when the you need smoke-activated alarms to pro- battery needs replacing--usually once a vide early warning. Fire Extinguishers: Know the ABCs year. Battery replacement is cheap and What should you do if you discover a fire easy. in your home? First, get everyone out. The earlier the warning, the greater your Second, turn in an alarm for fire-fighting chances for successful evacuation and the Smoke detectors wired into the home help. Third, attack the fire--but only if you timely arrival of the fITe department. The should be on a separate circuit so that a can do so with the extinguishing materials earliest stages of a fire are the easiest to blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker will at hand. contain and put out, keeping property not make the alarm fail. In most cases, ') damage in a fire to a minimum. A recent smoke detectors will sound the alarm You should have a multipurpose ABC fire review of 699 fires in residences protected before a fire causes power to fail, so any Multipurpose extinguishers are commonly extinguisher on hand which uses a dry by smoke detectors showed a reduction for alarm wired into an existing circuit or available in 2-1/2-lb., 5-lb., and IO-lb. chemical--usually ammonium phosphate-- severe injury or death in 90 percent of the plugged into a wall outlet (but not control- sizes. Because many extinguishers dis- as its extinguishing agent. fires that occurred when all occupants were led by a switch) is reliable unless circuits charge rapidly, a minimum size of 5 lb. is asleep. Without doubt, smoke detectors overload. Most such units have a small recommended. The ABC designation means that the extin- save lives. light indicating that they have power. guisher is suitable for attacking these clas- Battery or wired? Both ionization and photoelectric detectors Installation A smoke detector installed on the ceiling ses of fire: A--ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, or trash. Your fann buildings and farm equipment should also be equipped with fire extin- guishers. A fann shop can be a fire-prone . can be wired into home electrical systems, just outside all sleeping areas will provide area because of the presence of cutting and B--flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, but only the ionization type will operate on basic protection. You might also install a welding equipment, gas, oil, grease, diesel grease, and other petroleum products. batteries. Battery-powered smoke detectors unit at the head of the basement stairs. fuel, and usually some type of heating sys- C--electrical equipment. are easily installed usually with a pair of Ceiling-mounted units are usually more ef- tem. It ,is recommended that at least one An ABC extinguisher should be adequate one-inch screws. They're also easy to fective than wall-mounted units because 1O-lb. ABC dry chemical type extinguisher for use on a variety of home and farm fires. move. be mounted on a wall where it is quickly and easily accessible. Itis also a good idea to have as-lb. or IO-lb. ) ABC type extinguisher in each of your Five reasons why insurance other fann buildings, including livestock areas, machinery storage grain dryers and electrical panels. Extinguishers should be located in any area that might become a service is so good in Michigan • • • possible escape route. You should :naintain your fire extin- guishers according to manufacturers' in- structions or the advice and supervision of your local fire department. Contact your fire department to request fire safety infor- mation and training. in fire extinguisher operation. Finally, remember this: Having fire extin- guishers in your home and on your farm doesn't relieve you of the responsibility for other fire safety and fire prevention prac- tices. Fire extinguishers are not a replace- ment for the fire department and the skill of well-trained firefighters. WALLY TRINKLEIN Reese Tuscola County 30 Years PRODUCERS: Don't Miss The 1990 Product Trade Show! Even if you aren't a delegate, there are still plenty of reasons to attend MFB' s 1990 State Annual in Grand Rapids. In addition to workshops on Tuesday, Nov. 27, over 50 exhibitors are expected at the Product Trade Show set to open on Wednesday, Nov. 28, at I :00 p.m. The show also runs on Thursday, Nov. 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 DAVE ROWE, CPCU, CIC p.m. A partial listing of exhibitors include: Chelsea Washtenaw County Farm Bureau Insurance 25 Years Corporate Services, Inc. JOHN KUGLER MBG Marketing Coloma Michigan Milk Producers Association Berrien County A.D.L. Systems 25 Years Countrymark, Inc. Feld Drug MACMA Direct Marketing Michigan Soybean Association Michigan Department of Agriculture Farm Bureau Insurance is proud to honor five protection for farm, home, life, auto, business, MFB Group Purchasing agents for their long and distinguished records of retirement, and more. MSDAGVET service. Together, these five professionals have improved the MSU T elefarm/Microtel Great Lakes Sugar Beet Growers Assoc. All five reached important service milestones during lives and futures of thousands of Michigan families. Salisbury Management Services, Inc. 1990, reflecting their longterm commitment to their For their. dedication, their caring, and their many Great Lakes Hybrids, Inc. communities and the Farm Bureau Family. contributions to the Farm Bureau Family, we extend L & V Mercantile They have been serving Farm Bureau members and our deepest appreciation. Health Care Exchange, Ltd. Blue Cross/Blue Shield the people of Michigan for 25 and 30 years, offering Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, Inc. Shamrock Leathers Contact Product Show Coordinator, Doug fleming, at (517) 323-7000, ext. 3236 for MAKING YOUR FUTURE ~_ FARM BIJREAIJ more infonnation or if you are interested in MORE PREDICTABLE ,_-~ 'NSIJRANCE displaying your products or services at the JAIM IUllAU ..mIAl • 'AIM ~ lIR • JAil» IUIUU GIIOAJ. • II AHIIIITY show.