President's Column YPCS Student Search is On ... Outstanding high school students Like many others in the agricultural community, I was shocked and stunned by the attending the Michigan Farm Bureau Young violence done Feb. 28 to the mink research facilities at Michigan State University (MSU). People's Citizenship Seminar, June 15-19, The arson and vandalism at Anthony Hall and the mink research farm did an estimated at Olivet College will be participating in one $125,000 worth of damage. of the finest programs offered for young people in Michigan. YPCS "graduates" But more importantly, this pointless act of terrorism to a public building threatened the return to their communities with the knowl- lives of innocent people. Although the fire in Anthony Hall was quickly extinguished, it's edge, commitment and enthusiasm for easy to imagine the disastrous impact this arson could have had on the crowded university participating in the democratic process. campus. Eligible students are: Also of significance is the fact that these terrorists destroyed over 30 years of research by • High school juniors and seniors in the Or. Richard Aulerich. This respected scientist was studying nutrition and the decline of the 1992-93 school year. natural mink population in the wild. As pointed out by Dr. Fred Poston, dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the vandalism was aimed toward a long-standing • Interested in government, social and research program geared toward helping the mink, not destroying them. economic issues, and/or politics. The mink research also assisted in projecting the impact to human beings in various water- • Potential leaders or those who partici- pate well in large group settings. quality studies because of the mink's natural sensitivity levels to naturally occurring toxins and micro-toxins. Many of the water quality standards in the US. are the result of this • Articulate and willing to speak to groups research. In addition, Dr. Aulerich was working with a strain of genetically deaf mink as part after the seminar. of a joint research project with the University of Michigan to study deafness in humans. • From either a farm or non-farm background. A shadowy animal rights group called the "Animal Liberation Front" took credit for the attack, alleging animal abuse at the MSU facility. But University officials said Or. Aulerich's During the conference, over 200 young research was done strictly according to government guidelines and that the animals were men and women will participate in humanely treated. mock voter registration, political party con- ventions, campaigns, and voting. Dynamic As a farmer, I strongly support animal welfare - the belief that animals should be well speakers, recognized as experts in the fields cared for and treated humanely. The bogus philosophy of animal rights, on the other hand, of economics, world cultures, and govern- argues that animals are subject to all the rights enjoyed by humans. Animal rights activists ments, and personal growth will background claim that an animal life is equal to a human life. the students on their role as citizens of the United States and the world. In order to stop man's alleged tyranny over animals, animal rights groups have resorted to increasingly violent and illegal tactics, like the arson at MSU The selection process varies from county to county, according to program To stop these extremists, Farm Bureau is supporting H.R. 2407. This bill, which has 253 manager, Julie Chamberlain. "Some stu- congressional co-sponsors, makes it a federal crime to disrupt, destroy property or steal dents may be asked to prepare a written animals from a biomedical facility, agricultural research facility or farm. essay or take part in a personal interview," she said. Your help is needed. Contact your congressional representative and urge him to join the list of Michigan congressmen (William Broomfield, Dave Camp, Bob Davis, Paul Henry, County Farm Bureaus' pay registration fees Carl Pursell, Guy Vander Jagt and Howard Wolpe) who are H.R. 2407 co-sponsors. Only with the support of local businesses, leav- the concerted action of reasonable people who understand the importance of animal ing only transportation costs to be covered research can prevent future terrorist acts like the one at MSU by the students themselves. For application and program information, contact your county Farm Bureau office. But hurry! Registration deadline is May 1, 1992. Jack Laurie, President Michigan Farm Bureau RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 miCHIGan'S FaRm BeST _= A Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau Spring 1992 MACMA Photo: Michigan Travel Bureau Spring Sale In This Issue Order Deadline April 22 Did You Know? 6 LYME DISEASE Protect your family during Michigan's outdoor season • Great Meat Savings in Time 10 FOOD IRRADIATION for Grilling Dispelling the myths of a new technology • Free Camera 16 NORTH AMERICAN FREE TRADE with Purchase Agricultures stake in NAFTA of Cheese 17 MICIllGAN PRODUCE • Fresh Super Sweet Corn by AVAILABILITY GUIDE the Crate Be sure to save this handy guide for future reference Of Special Interest Special Center Insert I HEALTH HARVEST For more details contact Introducing a health and wellness publication from Michigan Farm Bureau your county Farm Bureau office or call 800-292-2680. The RURAL LIVING (ISSN ---) is published Quarterly in the months of October, January, April, July, as a service to associate members, by Michigan Farm Bureau, 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, MI 48917. Jan. 30, 1992, Vol. 11, NO.2. Member subscription price of $1.50 included in annual dues of Michigan Farm Bureau associate members. Additional subscription fees required for mailing Rural Living to non-members and outside the continental U.S.A. Application to mail at Second-Class Postage rates is pending at Lansing, MI and additional mailing offices. Letters to the editor and statewide news articles should be sent to: Editor, Rural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI 48909- 8460. POSTMASTER: Send address Changes to Rural living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI48909.8460. Editorial: Dennis Rudal. Editor and Business Manager. Staff Contributors: Mike Rogers; Connie Turbin; Donna Wilber; Henry Huisjen. Officers: Michigan Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President, Wayne Wood, Marlette; Administrative Director, Chuck Burkett; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Tom Parker; Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. Directors: District 1, Jim Miller, Coloma; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Diane Horning, Manchester; District 4, Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlette; District 7, Larry Snider, Hart; District 8, Richard Leach, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; DIstrict 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At-Large: Douglas Darling, Maybee; Jack Laurie, Cass City; Faye Adam, Snover; Jan Vosburg, Climax. Promotion and Education, Leona Daniels, Sterling. Young Farmers, Steven Gonyea, Spruce. RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 .... r _ " '<~ A:iEW.s of the time no them to become sclerotic of nephrons leads to further decline prescribe medication. You may cause is known. This is called (thickened). As this reduces the of kidney flmction. Eventually, need to try several different "prilnary" or "essential" blood supply to the kidneys they total kidney failure may follow, medications to get your blood hypertension. There is evidence can no longer function efficiently. with uremic poisoning and death. pressure under control. It is very which shows the importance of They become less effective in This type of kidney damage happen important that you take your the kidneys in blood pressure removing waste products from the if the blood pressure is uncontrolled. medications as ordered. You regulation. In the remaining 1OOA>, body. Salt is retained instead of However, it can be prevented if will likely need to take medication an underlying process can be being properly eliminated, which high blood pressure is controlled. for the rest of your life. identified to explain the high causes fluid retention. This extra blood pressure. This is referred fluid puts a burden on the heart What can I do about Most forms ofhigh blood pressure to as "second'lry" hypertension. causing it to fail. Tills creates a high blood pressure? can be treated successfully. Early Among the causes are obstmction vicious cycle, as the heart then First of all, find out if your blood detection and long term of a renal artery (renal refers to supples the kidneys with less blood, pressure is n0n11al. Since high treatment are the keys to a longer thekidney),hormonal causing the kidneys further damage. blood pressure has few symptoms, and healthier life. abnonnalities, various kidney many people have high blood diseases and infrequently from How do kidneys work? pressure and do not realize it. If drugs, such as birth control pills. The major function of the kidneys your first blood pressure reading is Rescue Your Dying Septic System NOW! Just Pour Safe, Easy-To-Use Powder into your Commode and Finally AELD AFTER SEPTlPROSl Solids digested GREATER SA TlJRATION and Iiquified AREA now absorbed in open drainfields. SEPTIPRO. SAVES YOU MONEYI No more costly mechanical cleaning, digging or pumping: SAFE AND EASY TO USEI Just pour Septlpro into your commode; let it world Results usually visible over- night! Non-toxic, poisonous or corrosive, harmless to humans, animals or plumbing. Will make your system odor-free. SEPTIPRO IS GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEMTROUBLE.FREE ORWE WILL REFUND EVERY PENNY YOU PAID FOR YOUR SEPTIPRO•. If it does not do as claimed, return the unused portion within 30 days and get refund on product. 1 lb. for initial treatment of 1000gal. tank or 4-oz. once a month. Order nowl Fill out & send to: SEPTIPRO~ P.O. BOX 395 I Lester Prairie, MN 55354 I o 1 lb. $9.95 plus $2.50 P & H total $12.45 Check 0 o o 2Ibs.$16.40 4Ibs.$23.3O plus $3.50 P & plus $4.00 P & H total H total $19.90 C.O.D. Extra 0 $27.30 Mastercard 0 I I 0 8 Ibs.$38.50 plus $4.50 P & H total $43.00 Visa 0 I I tA~~~::o'llllllllllllllllll I ExpirationDate Ll..J - LU I I Signature I Street I City State __ Zip I L _ ~a~o~r~ 1-800-327-13~ _.J RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 Auto manufacturing has its Big Three. annual and perennial flowers, herbs and and Oakland counties; and in Kalamazoo College sports has its Big Ten. Floricul- small fruits such as strawberries that are County, in southwestern Michigan. ture-the production offlowering plants grown in green houses for use outdoors. Kalamazoo County has nearly 100 grow- - has its Big Six. And Michigan is one of Bedding plant production is a growth ers who produce the largest number of those top six flower-producing states. industry in Michigan and elsewhere in flats annually. Between one-fifth and one- According to Will Carlson, Extension the United States becausegrowing plants fourth of the state's 541 acres of green- horticulture specialist at Michigan State as a leisure activity continues to grow in house space is in Kalamazoo County. University, those six states - Michigan, popularity, Carlson says. The most popular bedding plants sold Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, California lilt gives people a chance to be creative are impatients, petunias and cutting ge- and Texas - account for 58 percent of raniums, Carlson reports. These three and to improve their homes and sur- the bedding plants, 71 percent of the cut crops account for about half of all the roundings," he observes. "Bedding flowers, 78 percent of the foliage plants bedding plants sold. Other plants popu- plants are very affordable, so if you don't and 47 percent of the potted plants pro- larwith consumers are marigolds, vinca, like the way things turned out this year, duced each year in the United States. In begonias and seed geraniums. At the it doesn't cost much to do it differently 1989{the latest yearforwhich figures are top of the list of vegetable transplants next year. A minimal investment pro- available}, Michigan produced more flats are tomatoes and peppers. vides you with enjoyment from May of bedding plants than any other state through October." Because of its economic contribution to except California. In dollars and cents, Though Michigan has several hundred the state, floriculture is a very important the wholesale floriculture industry is commercial bedding plant growers, the part of Michigan agriculture, Carlson valued at nearly $2.5 billion. Michigan's industrytendsto be concentrated inthree points out. It generates jobs and income sharetotalsabout$112 million each year. areas: around Grand Rapids, in Kent and and contributes to the tax base. On a A large share of that - more than $47 more personal level, it produces beauty Ottawa counties; around Detroit in million in 1989 - is bedding plants: for everyone to enjoy. Wayne, Washtenaw, Monroe, Macomb RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 " een"s creen Many people have moved to the coun- the ground when left to their natural Fodder tree clone, which grows to only try in an attempt to get away from it all, growir.g pattern. They are easily shaped 25 feet in height. Austree staff offers only to have hoards of neighbors move and maintained by routine pruning prac- assistance in planning a beautiful and in with the same idea. In addition, em- tices. useful green screen. Theycan be reached phasis on protecting and maintaining a The trees can be side trimmed, root at 1-800-638-1441. healthy environment is becoming a pruned, and/or topped to conform to Developing the Screen growing concern. view or space restrictions. They do not Proper soil preparation is the most im- Rural homeowners wishing to obtain spread by seed or sucker roots, so there portant factor in establishing an effec- privacy and/or to simply enhance their is no potential control problems. tive screen from bare root plants. The properties are turning to growing green If left untouched, the trees will reach 60 size of the hole, soil condition and tree screens to protect themselves from the to 80 feet in height and grow to a width placement all influence surviv31 and urban sprawl. Many are growth. Trees dor:'tthrive discovering a side ben- in competition with grass efit in reduced heating and weeds, makillg their and cooling costs, some removal critical, espe- by as much as 25 percent. cially in drought condi- Recognizing the benefits tions. of a natural shelter, many A mulched seed should homeowners are estab- be prepared, using cut lishing green growing grass, wood chips, straw screens with Austrees. or black plastic. Ample Austrees are the fastest water should be provided way to develop a natural throughoutthe first grow- break between property ing season to assure ad- lines or from natural ele- equate growth, until the ments like the wind. tree's root system isfirmly The original Austree established. clones were "genetically engineered" Every shipment of the trees comes with and tested over the last 30 years, to of 7 to 10 feet. Usually the trees are a complete set of detailed planting in- provide a fast growing, disease resistant pruned to a useful size for the specific structions, and suggestions for a suc- tree that could be easily established in sight. A properly planted screen would cessful planting. Austree recommends diverse climates. Extremely hardy, the usually be 10 feet tall in its first year, planting trees three feet apart in single trees now grow in all the continental reaching full maturity in about 7 years. rows, or five feet apart in a staggered United States and in every providence in Planning the Screen two-row arrangement. Canada. Austrees are grown for re-sale Different tree clones provide different The best time to plant is after there is no purposes and are delivered to the cus- results. If you intend for ~/our screen to threat of a hard frost. Ground tempera- tomer asa root-productthrough the mail. be full size, then the all ourpose clones ture is the most important factor in mak- Austrees typically grow 8 to 18 feet in a are the best. If your screen height is to be ing sure trees get off to a good, quick and single season. They grow tall and up- limited, then Austree suggest consider- healthy start. right with lateral branches all the way to ing the Kinyanghi clone or their Super RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 Farm Leaders Glimpse Future of North American Trade Mexican farmers, using state-of-the-art tion infrastructure has had difficulties han- technology to produce fruits and vegetables dling the large increase of trade in recent for U.S. consumers. Mexican consumers, years, and without improvement, this could shopping in a state-of-the-art supermarket limit trade volume between the two coun- for American jeans, housewares and pro- tries. cessed foods. Some U.S. environmental groups have criti- It's the future of international trade, glimpsed cized a NAFTA, saying that Mexican farm- by Michigan Farm Bureau President Jack ers would export crops grown with chemi- • Laurie and four other state Farm Bureau cals not approved for use in the United presidents during a six-day tour of Mexico's States. But Laurie said the Mexican farm- agricultural region in March. The group, ers he talked with are acutely aware of our which included American Farm Bureau country's strong food safety standards. Federation President Dean Kleckner, vis- "They are following the same Environmen- ited the Mexican states of Sonora, Sinaloa tal Protection Agency regulations as we and Baja, California. They toured produce do," he said. "Their produce is closely and livestock operations and processing inspected at the border, and they don't facilities. want to take the slightest risk of losing "There's nothing like standing in another American Farm Bureau Federation access to our markets." President Dean Kleckner (left), and farmer's field, or walking in his shoes, to Other critics have pointed to the allegedly Michigan Farm Bureau President Jack really make you appreciate his point of Laurie (right), inspect Mexican grown low Mexican labor costs as an unfair trade view," said Laurie. "That's especially true asparagus at a packing facility during a advantage. "We often hear our U.S. grow- when it comes to understanding farmers recent trade trip to Mexico. ers raise the concern that labor costs less in from another culture and country, like Mexico," said Laurie. "But the bottom line Mexico." worth of farm goods to Mexico. The U.S. when we talk to Mexican growers is that The focus of the trip was to gain some sells over 90 percent of the live animals, they, like U.S. farmers, are concerned about perspective on the impact of the North meats, cereals, fruits and vegetables and how much labor is costing them. Workers American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) food oils purchased by Mexico, and at least are paid only $5 a day, but they are highly currently being negotiated between the three fourths of its oilseeds. One advan- inefficient. Labor makes up about one third United States, Canada and Mexico. "One tage of a NAFTA would be the preference of their cost of production, about the same of the things that struck me is that Mexican the U.S. commodities would enjoy in the that it does here for U.S. farmers." farmers have some of the same concerns Mexican market by virtue of having to pay Farm Bureau supports a free trade agree- about agricultural trade that we do," Laurie no import tariffs. Similar commodities from ment with Mexico, but only if such an said. "They are afraid that their govern- other competitors would continue to face agreement provides for fair and equal com- ment, in the process of negotiating the such restrictions. petition. Farm Bureau policy states that NAFTA, will tend to neglect the interests of In 1990 the U.S. purchased $2.6 billion of current U.S. grades and standards should the individual grower in favor of the inter- agricultural products from Mexico, taking not be lowered to accommodate Mexican ests of the overall economy. Mexican farm- more than 90 percent of Mexico's agricul- imports; the agreement should standardize ers are also worried about competition for tural exports. Eighty percent or more of pesticide regulations so they are uniform their agricultural products. They are worried, Mexico's exports of fruits and vegetables between the two countries; and especially much as the Canadians are, about being are purchased by the U.S., mostly during important for Michigan growers, import- overwhelmed by a huge U.S. 'production the winter months when production is low sensitive crops should have a longer phase- machine.' So it appears to me that there is in our country. Mexican horticultural prod- in period. a great deal of public relations effort to be ucts now make up a major part of total "1 stood on the shipping dock in Nogales, done in the grower community in all three agricultural products from Mexico and have Mexico, and heard that they normally run countries before we can maximize the posi- shown the most rapid growth of all U.S. 600-700 semi's a day into the U.S. through tive impact of a NAFT A," he said. agricultural imports from Mexico. that port of entry," Laurie said. "So it's clear That positive impact can include new mar- As the volume of trade between the two that we already have vigorous trade with kets for U.S. farm crops. In any given year, countries has increased, transportation and Mexico. The question is: won't we all be Mexico is the United States' third or fourth other infrastructure constraints at the bor- better off if we have some type of agree- largest customer for agricultural products. der and in Mexico could become obstacles ment that addresses market demands and In 1990, we exported about $2.5 billion to trade expansion. Mexico's transporta- trade in an effective, controlled manner?" RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 VEGETABLE ASPARAGUS BEANS (green & snap) BEETS -A vailability BROCCOLI BRUSSELS SPROUTS Guide For CABBAGE CARROTS CAULIFLOWER Michigan CELERY CORN. SWEET Grown Fruits CUCUMBERS (for Dicklesl CUCUMBERS (saladl & Vegetables GREENS (turnip. mustard. collards kalel & LETTUCE. HEAD T his chart is a buying guide for LETTUCE. LEAFY (leaf. bibb. Boston. & fruits, vegetables and other food Romainel and horticultural products grown MUSHROOMS in Michigan. It shows a range of ONIONS availability because the season ONIONS. GREEN for fruits and vegetables vary PARSNIPS from year to year, and from one PEAS. SUGAR area of the state to another. PEPPERS. GREEN POTATOES. WHITE The solid bars in the chart refer to RADISHES the peak periods of availability. These dates are longer than the RUTABAGAS ==== SPINACH actual harvest dates when a sig- saUASH. SUMMER' nificant portion of the crop is saUASH. WINTER" stored and marketed after har- TOMATOES (fleldl vest. Usual peak harvest dates TURNIPS are shown within the bar. To take full advantage of Michigan's bountiful growing season, be sure to order a copy APPLES (summerl of the Michigan Department of APRICOTS Agriculture's "Farm Market and BLACKBERRIES U-Pick Directory, "by calling BLUEBERRIES (517) 373-1058. The directory, CANTALOUPE with over 300 listings of farm CHERRIES. RED TART markets and U-pick operations, is CHERRIES. SWEET available at no charge. GRAPES NECTARINES PEACHES PEARS PLUMS RASPBERRIES RHUBARB (fleldl STRAWBERRIES ~ MICHIGAN •• ",.1. PEAK AVAILABILITY (Usual peak harvest date is noted WIthin solid bar.) • ... FARM BIJREAIJ LIMITED SUPPLY 'soft shell "hard shell Coopel1ltlve Extension Service Mlchlglln Stete University Extension Bulletin E-1942 (New) February 1986 RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 Because there is no standard of identity for imitation or substitute products, in- gredient composition may vary. Why Choose REAL? REAL dairy foods contribute significant Real vs. Imitation amounts of several important nutrients, Imitation and substitute products are including 76 percent ofthe calcium in the found interspersed with the real dairy American food supply. As a major food foods in the dairy case. These products group, dairy products contribute the can look remarkably similar to real, but highest percentage of riboflavin and the similarity stops there. Differences in phosphorus to the food supply and the nutritive values, flavor, texture and second highest percentage of protein. cooking properties become very appar- Imitation cheese, for example, might ent when you use these products. meet the FDA protein quality standards, An imita~c:rit dairy product, as de- but still may not match the protein qual- scribed by the Food and Drug Adminis- ity or the vitamin and mineral content of tration (FDA)looks like and is intended to real cheese. replace the traditional counterpart, but is Also, there is no substitute for the supe- nutritionally inferior to it. A substitute rior taste and texture of real dairy prod- food product resembles the traditional ucts, both for cooking and eating pur- food, and also meets the FDA's defini- poses.An imitation cheese may not have tion of nutritional equivalency. Examples the same smooth melting qualities as of imitation and substitute dairy prod- realcheese,for example, and cakes made FOOD PRODUCTS with margarine will not have the flavor that butter provides. New Products - Are They REAL? In 1991,over 900 new products and line extensions were introduced by dairies nationwide. At first glance, one might REMAIN A GOOD BUY question whether some of them are real. cents a pound cheaper, pork chops A consumer food price survey com- Again, the label is the key. pleted by the American Farm Bureau were up a dime, fryers were a nickel a * Frozen desserts that look like ice cream, Federation shows remarkable stability pound less and eggs were down 12 in prices paid for food in grocery stores cents a dozen. but aren't called ice cream, boast re- across the country. Milk was 6 cents a gallon higher and duced fat and calories, low cholesterol. This year's first quarterly survey of 16 cheese was down 7 cents a pound, on Are they REAL?They might be. Some of popular food items, priced in 53 loca- the average. Apples and potatoes these products are real dairy products tions covering 20 states, revealed an were slightly higher and Cheerios re- even though they don't meet the stan- mained about the same as in the pre- average market basket price of $29.58. dards of identity for ice cream. Some, of That is just 2 cents higherthan the same vious quarter. course, will be imitation products, so items in the fourth quarter of 1991,and Flour increased 8 cents per pound read the label to be sure. $1.37 lower than the first quarter of last and white bread, 8 cents a loaf. Mazola year. oil was up a penny and Crisco down 9 * Light counterparts for sour cream, The items, studied on a quarterly basis cents. Mayonnaise was unchanged at cream cheese and Ricotta cheese tout since 1989, include ground chuck, sir- $2.22,which also was the price of that reduced fat, calories and cholesterol. loin tip roast, pork chops, bacon, whole product a year earlier. Check the label. Often skim milk has fryers, eggs, whole milk, cheddar Compared to the first quarter of last been used instead of whole milk orcream cheese, red Delicious Apples, Russet year, meats were slightly lower, ex- to help make these reductions. Such Potatoes, Cheerios, 5 pounds of flour, cept for pork chops, which went up 3 products are still REAL dairy products. white bread, Mazola Oil, Crisco Oil and cents a pound. Eggs were down, milk Kraft Mayonnaise. was 11 cents a gallon higher and * Natural cheeses which contain less fat The average price of the market basket cheese was down 9 cents a pound. and fewer calories than their traditional stayed almost constant from $28.49 to Potatoes were cheaper by almost 25 counterparts are REAL,too. (Remember, $29.29 in the four quarters of 1989and cents a pound. Cereal remained imitation cheese will likely show veg- went only to a high of$31.15 in the third constant in price, but flour and bread etable oil as an ingredient.) quarter of 1990, indicating that retail were both higher. The cooking oils The list goes on -cordial-style milk drinks, food prices have remained quite stable were substantially cheaper than a over the three-year period and into the year ago. flavored cold pack cheeses, micro- beginning of the fourth waveable milk shakes. Many basic dairy year. products now offer consumers a choice - a REAL choice! II Naturally pricesvaryfrom Market Basket Always look for the 66REAL" Seal on packaging; it's your assurance of quality state to state and even within states," said Marsha Purcell, AFBF director of 40 SURVEY CornParinl 1992. 1991 and 1990 quarters program development. dairy products. 30 IIBut, the survey clearly shows that food remains a good buy." $20 With a total average mar- ket basket price almost the 10 same as the fourth quarter of last year, most products are nearly the same in o 1st 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 1992 1991 1991 1991 1991 1990 1990 "1990 1990 price. Ground chuck was 8 Quarter AFBF GRAPHIC RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 ___ 8e1l~rld. Orlando, Florida EVERYBODY'S ~ U~. Because ... Your Michigan Farm Bureau membership entitles you to discounts at the following major theme parks in the Midwest and Florida: D Universal Studios D Disney World/Epcot/MGM D Disney Land D Busch Gardens D Sea World D Cypress Gardens D Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village D Cedar Point D Kings Island D Detroit Zoo D Pleasure Island D Opryland To take advantage of these discounts, call or write your county Farm Bureau office TODA Yl ~~ 1 ~Ilgs lslalld. Animal Rights Terrorists Strike MSU's Mink Research Center Animal rights terrorist activity. You read about it, According to Poston, the research at MSU According to Hogberg, a current research project you hear about it, you talk about it, but it never focused on nutrition and the decline of the involving a strain of genetically deaf mink was happens here in Michigan. natural mink population. "This terrorist activity part of a joint research project at the University was aimed toward a long-standing research of Michigan to use the animals as a model to That was until Friday, Feb. 28, when a fire was program largely geared toward helping the study deafness in humans. "This is going to discovered in room 132 Anthony Hall on the mink, not destroying them," said Poston. "If be a setback to a number of current projects, " Michigan State University campus. The early- the goal is to help animals, it's a loss to me why he said. morning fire totally destroyed the office of Dr. one would target a research program geared Richard Aulerich and substantially damaged Hogberg was visibly upset by the misguided toward protecting mink populations in the wild. " three other interior offices, which serve as the efforts of the terrorist activities, comparing center for mink research at MSU. According to the Animal Science Department their apparent lack of concern over the safety of Chairman Dr. Maynard Hogberg, the mink the mink and human life against Dr. Aulerich's The East Lansing Fire Department quickly research also assisted in projecting impact to concern. "When the farm manager called to responded to the fire, preventing further human beings in various water-quality studies inform us of the damage at the research facility, damage to the rest of,Anthony Hall. Damage to because of the mink's natural sensitivity levels Dr. Aulerich's first question was "Were any the offices in f"r6Qm 132 was estimated at to naturally occurring toxins and micro-toxins . of the animals hurt?" related Hogberg. "I think .. be!ween $qO,OOO and $1 OO~OOO. "Look at some of the work done with the l;'pA that shows the sensitivity he has for the ~eaki.hg 1nd entering also took place at the animals themselves." several years ago, a,nd you'll find a lot of the minK1esearch farm located o[\Jolly.Road east water quality standards in the United..,$tates Efforts to protect against similar occurrences in of the main campus. The builaing was forcibJ.y ,~oday werwe result of th'e work done with this , the future will be difficult, says Poston, since - entered by tearing off roofing and climbing research}mit," Hogberg said. ~SU is considered a public institution. "We through the attic, and entering through a ceiling L ~ k'eep these facilities open to the public," access door. A substance determined to be explained Poston, "It would not be difficult sulfuric acid was poured on all the mechanical for somebody that was planning to do thfs type equipment in the research facility, according to of thing to literally walk through the facility." MSU's Department of Public Safety (DPS). Accoroing to DPS's Lt. William Wardwell, "From what we've seen it appears that there who's heading the investigation along with the was some level of planning that went into this, " Michigan State Police and the Federal Bureau said DPS's Dr. Robert Benson. "It wasn't just an of Investigations, the individuals responsible amateur situation where someone just walked will be facing at least three felony counts for off the street and did this; it involved a fairly arson, breaking and entering, and malicious high degree of sophistication." destruction, as well as possible federal charges, The walls of the building were also spray painted since the group responsible was beleived to with the initials" A.L.F." which stands for the have crossed state lines. Animal Liberation Front, and a threat that "the Legislation pending at the federal level would otters are next." Destruction was confined to make such incidences a federal offense for the office, feed mixing area, and feed storage breaking into any animal research facilities, areas of the research facility, with damage and according to MFB President Jack Laruie, estimated at $20,000 to $25,000. Mink cages were opened, but fortunately none of the .use workers, dressed in is needed to curb future animal rights terrorists activities. mink escaped . protective gell spent two days t, .,Successful passage of this legislation will send In the words of Dr. Fred Poston, Vice Provost of rleatlil1~ up Jmnage caused a clear signal to A. L. F. and so-called legal animal the University and Dean of the Colleg~ .of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the activity by su(nlric acid diP tlUll was rights groups that serve as their mouth piece, ., said Laurie. "When those responsible for this was not only costly but senseless, since ~!nk puured at'a the feediJ1~ equipment senseless criminal activity are caught, full are extremely sensitive to abnormal activity, at n th( iJ1~' research flICilit)'. restitution to the University and taxpayers making them easily prone to stress and even death in severe cases. I ( l ~;ll~ an st 'mated I should be made, and maximum criminal charges filed to remove these activist that are a threat \!,),(J()(} da n(/~c. to society." RURAL LIVING • SPRING 1992 FREE RX CATALOG SAVE UP TO 50% Michigan Farm Bureau's Mail Service Pharmacy Program Offered by Feld Prescription Service 5023 Grover St. Omaha Nebraska 68106 Most Commonly Prescribed Prescription Medications Call 1-800-228-3353 if you don't see yours . • Calan Tabs 80mg 100's 36.75 12.95 Micro-K Extencaps 8 mEq ]OO's ]2.50 ]20 mg ]OO's 49.50 15.95 ]0 mEq ]OO's ]3.50 7.95 C]inoriJ Tabs ]50mg ]OO's 73.50 49.95 Motrin Tabs 400 mg ]OO's ]5.50 7.95 200 mg ]OO's 89.25 59.95 600 mg ]OO's 20.25 10.95 Coumadin Tabs 2 mg ]OO's 39.95 800 mg 100's 24.75 15.95 2.5 mg ]OO's 4].25 Ortho-Novum Tabs ]-35 2] or 28 19.50 8.95 5 mg 100's 41.75 ]-50 2] or28 ]9.50 8.95 7.5 mg ]OO's 63.75 Persantine Tabs 25 mg ]OO's 25.95 5.95 ]0 mg ]OO's 65.75 50 mg ]OO's 39.25 7.95 E.E.S. Tabs 400 mg ]OO's ]9.95 15.25 75mg ]OO's 51.95 9.95 Entex LA Tabs ]OO's 49.95 12.95 Premarin Tabs 0.3 mg ]OO's 20.25 10.95 Eryc Caps 250 mg ]OO's 28.50 16.95 0.625mg 100's 26.95 13.95 F]exeril Tabs ]0 mg ]OO's 74.25 50.95 1.25 mg ]OO's 35.75 15.95 Inderal Tabs ]0 mg ]OO's 20.75 5.95 2.5 mg 100's 61.95 29.95 20 mg ]OO's 28.25 6.95 Proventi] Tabs 2 mg ]OO's 30.75 10.95 40 mg ]OO's 35.95 7.95 4mg ]OO's 43.25 15.95 60 mg ]OO's 47.75 9.95 Provera Tabs ]0 mg ]OO's 46.75 16.95 80 mg ]OO's 53.75 10.95 S]ow-K Tabs ]OO's ]6.75 8.95 Isoptin Tabs 80 mg ]OO's 37.25 12.95 Synthroid Tabs 0.025 mg]OO's ]3.25 6.95 ]20 mg ]OO's 48.75 15.95 0.05 mg ]OO's ]4.50 7.95 Lanoxin Tabs 0.] 25mg ]OD's 9.75 2.95 0.] mg ]00' s ] 6.25 3.95 0.25mg ]00' s 9.75 2.95 0.]5mg ]OO's 18.95 4.95 Lasix Tabs 20 mg ]OO's ]3.75 5.95 0.2 mg ]OO's 21.75 5.50 40 mg 100's ]7.75 6.95 0.3 mg ]00' s 28.50 5.95 80 mg ]OO's 28.50 11.95 Tegreto] Tabs 200 mg ]OO's 29.95 13.95 Maxzide Tabs ]OO's 55.95 10.95 Theo-Dur SA Tabs ]00 mg ]OO's ]4.50 8.95 200 mg 100's 19.25 10.95 All your non-prescription vitamin and pain relief products are also available at a savings! r-----------------------------------, I Michigan Farm Bureau : Michigan Farm Bureau I : FREE BIe PEN I FREE CATALOG I Return this coupon with any order and receive I Simply call Feld at 1-800-228-3353 and receive I I a Free Bic Pen compliments of Feld Prescription I your catalog detailing savings on over 5000 health I I I L I Service. Call 1-800-228-3353 for instructions on how to order. Offer expires June 30, 1992. I care items. Included will be a $3 coupon good on your first prescription order. ~II Alaska July 16-27, 1992 t Traveler- Experience the ultimate in service, cuisine, and hospitality as we tour Alaska on the Pacific Princess — the Love Boat, Alaska, U.S.A. offers you glittering p e a r FarmBure fjords, dazzling peaks, incredible glaciers, and the American Frontier. After our inside passage cruise, visit the land of the Midnight Sun and home of the Eskimo culture on our Princess land package, featuring the luxury full-dome on any one o / t h ^ ^ ^ ^ p r * » - ^ Tf)Ur, rail transportation of the Midnight Sun Express. This five-day package takes 1 1992. us through the interior wilderness of Alaska to Anchorage. Denali Park and just/oryou " ldollar. O n » - — ^ ^ l o n . «* J Fairbanks. v a l u e / o r your « ~ ^ ^ orld maJO pcopfc Our package include- round trip air from Chicago, 7-day/4-night land mee t some rtunity to itinerary including tours, transfers, and accommodations. Also included are d U/estyles- lellasKo.etheopp ^ Form Bureau ^ port charges, prepaid on-board gratuities, a welcome of fresh cut flowers, and r C a bottle of fine champagne. All this for as low as S3.199. arl d l e « ^ ^ ° I L ^ t u r e o/o 'thebest/eatur1ye;anflgettokno. • the g r e a t !peoP e Uke y o u r - i T o u r s is the 8 .Hileonthetour peopI . , n l i r consideration J ^ ^ F a r m B u r e requ„,t „u The Alps of Switzerland & Austria WorUi Tour/orJJ flboUt the best October 1-9, 1992 Come join us as we visit two of the prettiest and most picturesque form today to Ie«» countries in Central Europe. Experience the charm and beauty of Salzburg. Munich, and Octoberfest. Oberammergau, the Linderhoff Happy Travels - Castle. Lichtenstein and much, much more. Our package includes round trip air service, deluxe motor coach Sincerdy, Dmfk*fi„* E transportation, hotel accommodations, European-style buffet breakfast, and a welcome dinner, all for $1,253 per person. Douglas &.. Fleming *S r Schmidt, IVlichiguu Farm Bureau the Farm Bureau JamCS Agricultural Assoc Manager Division Illinois Agri Field Operattous Director m J F B Travel froB Travel Series Best of Italy, France & Greece Cruise September 15-27,1992 Sail the brilliant blue Mediterranean, studded with shining isles and gaily painted shorelines. Our cruise combines the French and Italian Rivieras with ageless Athens, the dramatic Corinth Canal, the serene beauty of Venice & Portifino, and the world's most alluring islands: Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu, Rhodes, Korcula, and quaint Capri. We travel upon the Golden Odyssey —large enough and luxurious enough to be a cruiseliner, yet renowned for its friendly lifestyle and genuine hospitality of her Greek staff. Our cruise package includes 25% discount on all cabins, all meals and entertainment, free air transportation from the U.S., $25 Bar/Boutique credit, group cocktail party, l bottle of wine per cabin, plus prepaid, on-board tip and gratuities. Cabin prices begin as low as $3,374. Canadian Rockies/ Calgary Stampede July 1-12,1992 This unforgettable, 12-day tour of the Canadian Rockies will not only visit the great and growing cities of the northwest and majestic beauty of the Rockies, but also includes unique features designed to give it special appeal. Special attractions include the Calgary Stampede Celebration — rodeo, chuckwagon races, state show spectacular, a ride on a giant snowmobile on Athabasco Glacier, a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain, and overnight stays at the beautiful Lake Louise Chateau and Banff Springs Hotel. Our package includes round trip jet transportation from Chicago, first class or deluxe hotel accommodations, 20 meals, all sightseeing and admissions, and a professional guide. Member price is $2,449 and nonmember price is $2,469. Brochure Request Form J Please send, without obligation, the detailed information for the tours indicated below | D • D Canadian Rockies/ Alaska • The Alps of Best of Italy, France Switzerland & Calgary Stampede Austria & G r e e c e Cruise (Please Print) (Mail to:) Name Farm Bureau Member Travel Services Address P.O. Box 4577 East Lansing. MI 48826 Phone County or call 1-800-748-0289 Four of Farm Bureau's Finest ••• In each generation, Rus Gardner there are men and women Tom Carter, ChFC, CLU 1991 Distinguished Sales A ward 1991 Distinguished Management who strive for excellence. Award Farm Bureau Insurance is fortunate to have so many of them, including the four pictured here. They are recipjents of four major awards presented at the company's 1992 sales Oakland County agent Rus Gardner This prestigious award recognizes Tom continues to break company records with convention, held recently Carter as our top agency manager in his oustanding sales and service. For the in Traverse City. Michigan. Tom, who manages 21 agents in fifth year in a row, he has earned the Saginaw, Bay,.and Arenac Counties, also Distinguished Sales Award, recognizing These four, and our earned this top award in 1982 and 1987. him as our top agent in the state. He has more than 400 other Tom's quality management is reflected by reached levels of production that are his agency's outstanding sales and service, unmatched in company history. agents in Michigan, are a and his development of new agents. big reason why Farm Bureau Insurance is a Margaret Dziadziola Charlie Elzinga leading insurer 1991 Michigan Fann Bureau 1991 Elton R. Smith Award Membership Award throughout the state. Four award winners ... working to make your future more predictable Wayne County agent Margaret Dziadziola II: Charlie Elzinga, an agent in Charlevoix for over 30 years, received this important award earned this major award for her outstanding for his dedication to his profession, his membership work last year. The award honors community, and Michigan Farm Bureau. The the agent who produced the most new annual award, named in honor of past MFB FARM BIJREAIJ Michigan Farm Bureau memberships during the past year. As our top membership president, Elton Smith, recognizes Charlie as a highly-regarded leader in Farm Bureau and INSIJRANCE producer of 1991, Margaret signed up 203 FARM BUREAU MUTUAL • FARM BUREAU LIFE the community. FARM BUREAU GENERAL • FB ANNUITY new MFB members last year. Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine P.O. Box 30960 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy. Lansing, MI 48909