NOVEMBER 8 ELECTIONS - MICHIGAN'S FUTURE IN THE HANDS OF ITS VOTERS This year's election is shaping up as pivotal for the future of our state. The people we help elect on Nov. 8 will playa crucial role in helping us consolidate the gains of recent years and prepare Mail Pharmacy Service to tackle the challenges ahead. Offers Savings to Farm With your help, many Michigan Farm Bureau AgriPac "Friends of Agriculture" have been elected in the past few years. These elected officials (such as Gov. John Engler) were Bureau Members instrumental in helping to approve legislation of significant economic benefit to all of us. For example, in 1994 I~gislation was approved that dealt with these crucial issues: Prescription drugs often playa crucial role in our everyday lives, even though health care costs Property Tax Reform. After approximately two decades of discussion and debate, major continue to escalate and pharmacies are not al- property tax and school finance reform was finally achieved. Before the reform, property tax ways located conveniently nearby. accounted for 60 percent of the funding of K-12 education. With the increase in the state sales tax and the reduction in property tax, approximately 80 percent of the funding for schools now Farm Bureau provides its members with a phar- comes from the state. As a result, farmers and nearly all rural property owners are enjoying macy seNice that is only a phone call away. significant property tax relief. Heartland Prescription SeNice, located in Omaha, Nebraska, can seNice all your pharmacy needs. Funding for the Animal Agriculture Initiative - The Legislature this year funded the They carry over 5,000 prescription, non-prescrip- construction phase of the Animal Industry Initiative. Fiscal year 1993-94 was critical in obtaining tion, diabetic, ostomy, incontinent supplies, and additional dollars to provide for staff, faculty and research to carry out the goals of the Animal durable medical equipment. When ordering Industry Initiative. Working with major livestock, poultry and equine organizations, Farm through Heartland Prescription SeNice, you can Bureau and the Friends of Agriculture were also successful in obtaining $4 million in enjoy the greatest savings by selecting generic programmatic funding for the fiscal year of 1994-95. The appropriation will allow for MSU to prescriptions over brand-name. Generics can save begin working on solutions to problems faced by producers. This will result in a more healthy you from 20 percent to 50 percent over brand- and stable livestock economy with additional jobs provided for support industries, agribusiness, name. transportation, processing and retail. Heartland not only helps you to lower your phar- Recreational Trespass - Farm Bureau Friends of Agriculture helped amend the Recreational macy costs but also provides the convenience of Trespass Act to increase penalties and enforcement and to enhance the landowner's having your order delivered to your home. Regis- protection from liability. New language requires restitution for damage done to property while tered pharmacists fill all orders by hand. Your trespassing. order is shipped to you in a heat sealed protective Other legislation approved by our Friends of Agriculture in the Legislature and Congress carton within 24 hours after it is received. The includes the Groundwater and Freshwater Protection Act, amendments to the Fertilizer Act to member seNice is convenient and simple to use. ensure that all possible sources of nitrates be included in programs to abate nitrogen You can call1-80D-228-3353 between 8 a.m. and contamination, a measure calling for three new schools to train over 300 additional State Police 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to receive a free troopers and approval of the North American Free Trade Agreement. price quote, place an order, consult a pharmacist, or receive a free catalog. Many legislative challenges remain. Lawmakers in the future must turn their attention toward continuing to improve the state's business climate, protecting private property rights, farmland Heartland currently seNes over 2 million Farm preservation, funding for MSU and MOA agricultural and food safety programs, reform of Bureau members in 31 states. Betty Jensen, workers' compensation and unemployment insurance, assuring annual funding for the Animal marketing director for Heartland Prescription, re- Agriculture Initiative, the cost and availability of health care, environmental laws, tax policy, the ports, "The majority of our customers live in 1995 Farm Bill and controlling of federal spending. outlying rural areas that either cannot get to a pharmacy or don't have a pharmacy nearby. Today You need Friends of Agriculture elected on the state and federal level to ensure that your views our commitment to seNing rural areas is even are represented on these issues. Get involved with a Friend's campaign by displaying a yard stronger now than it was 15 years ago when we sign, distributing campaign materials or urging your neighbors to vote. And remember: in many first began to provide our mail pharmacy seNice. close elections, the turnout of rural voters can be decisive. Be sure you know who your Friends Many of our customers don't realize our business are (see list on page 6) and vote for them on Nov. 8. first started as a retail pharmacy over 30 years ago." The next time you need a prescription filled, take advantage of this member benefit by calling Heart- land Prescription SeNice for a free price quote. Also, make sure you ask for their free catalog that Jack Laurie, President contains coupons for additional savings. Call 1- Michigan Farm Bureau 800-228-3353. It's a simple telephone call that will save you time and money! RURAL LIVING • FALL 1994 11= A Publication of Michigan Farm Bureau Fall 1994 Your invited to attend Michigan Farm Bureau's annual meeting Nov. 28 - Dec. 1 at the Westin Hotel, in Detroit. Come see your organization in action and learn more about Michigan Farm Bureau member service programs, during the MFB Family of Companies Trade show. You and your family will also want to tour the Showcase Photo: Michigan Farm Bureau of Agriculture held on Nov. 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and on Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, contact your local In This Issue county Farm Bureau office. 4 AUTO INSURANCE REFORM AND PROPOSAL C Separate myth and facts before you vote November 8. 6 "FRIENDS OF AGRICULTURE" Michigan Farm Bureau's 1994 election endorsements. 16 EXPLORING MIcmGAN CRANBERRYPRODUCTION Michigan farmers consider this crop as an alternative. 18 INNOVATIVE FARMERS OF HURON COUNTY This group seeks solutions to erosion and water quality issues with hands-on approach Of Special Interest 11 INSIGHTS FROM FARM BUREAU INSURANCE Helpful insurance tips you can use! The RURAL LIVING (ISSN 0743-9962) 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. Oct.. 30, 1992, Vol. 11, NO.3. 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. Second-Class Postage paid 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 Rudat, Editor and Business Manager. Staff Contributors: Mike Rogers; Connie Lawson; Donna Wilber; Henry Huisjen. Officers: Michigan Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President, Tom Guthrie, Delton; 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, Doug Darling, Maybee; 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: Jack Laurie, Cass City; Faye Adam, Snover; Jan Vosburg, Climax; Judy Emmons, Sheridan. Promotion and Education, Paul Swartzendruber. Young Farmers, Andy Hagenow, Rockford. RURAL LIVING • FALL 1994 Michi an Farm Bureau I Takes Position on November Ballot Issues MFB has announced Its posItIOn on three of the four proposals that will appear on the Nov. 8 ballot. MFB supports a "yes" vote on Proposal C, the referendum to amend Michigan's auto Insurance laws and a yes vote on Proposal B, the proposal to limit criminal appeals The organizatIOn IS urging a "no" vote on Proposal A which would convene a Michigan Constitutional Convention. Farm Bureau IS neutral on Proposal P which would establish a Michigan State Parks endowment fund. Below, you'll find the exact ballot language for each of the ballot proposals and more details about the position of the Michigan Farm Bureau. Farm Bureau "VES" Vote on Supports PROPOSALC Proposal C- Auto Insurance Reform This November, Michigan voters have the op- the discounts for which they qualify. Motorists Here are the key benefits Michigan citizens will portunity to reaffirm their legislators' effort to will save on medical coverage regardless of the receive if they vote "YES" on Nov. 8 to put into cut automobile insurance rates statewide. By level of coverage they select. effect Public Act 143. voting "YES" on Proposal C, consumers will be The new law no longer mandates that drivers • An average 16 percent rate cut for Michigan choosing to keep a new state law - Public Act buy unlimited medical coverage but instead motorists, based on rates that were in effect 143 - that has wide-ranging support across the allows us to choose limits from $1 million to $5 Nov. 1, 1992. state because it cuts auto insurance rates and million of protection. Even with $1 million pro- puts a cap on skyrocketing legal and medical • Elimination of current rating restrictions which tection, Michigan motorists will continue to fees. have the effect of subsidizing high risk areas have the nation's best medical coverage by far. The law should have originally gone into effect New Jersey has the next highest at $250,000. of the state . . on April 1, 1994, but was sidetracked by the No other state comes close. • A choice of medical coverage, ranging from a Michigan trial lawyers who were opposed to minimum of $1 million to a maximum of $5 Legal cost savings in PA 143 will also help limiting the number of lawsuits and scope of million. Although statistics prove that the keep rates down. The new law will not allow damages that can be sued for as a result of minimum million dollar coverage is enough recovery for non-economic pain and suffering in automobile accidents, even those suits which are filed by drivers who are at fault. a lawsuit by a person more than 50 percent at to handle significantly more than 99 percent of all medical claims, motorists can increase ..• fault in an accident and will not permit uninsured To support our members, Michigan Farm Bu- drivers to file pain-and-suffering lawsuits. their coverage to as much as $5 million and reau has joined the Michigan Citizens for Insur- still save money. Finally, a "YES" vote at the polls Nov. 8 will ance Reform, a coalition of traffic safety groups, • A provision which better enables courts to enact reasonable medical cost controls to stop businesses, chambers of commerce, associa- dismiss unnecessary and costly pain-and- the cost shifting to auto accident victims that tions and individuals who want to enact the suffering lawsuits for minor-injury accidents. takes place today. reforms passed by the Legislature. If voters support the enactment of P.A. 143, Make Sure You Vote "YES" their savings will be determined in large part by for Proposal C! the level of medical coverage they choose, and RURAL LIVING. FALL 1994 _.~ PROPOSAL A: Bureau's position that when an accused pleads guilty or no contest, he or she has admitted to PROPOSAL P: A PROPOSAL TO ESTABLISH A MICHIGAN A PROPOSAL TO CONVENE A CONSTITU- the crime and has given up their right to an TIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE PURPOSE STATE PARKS ENDOWMENT FUND, appeal. There may be an occasional case where OF DRAFTING A GENERAL REVISION OF INCREASE THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE an injustice has occurred and the courts would THE STATE CONSTITUTION AMOUNT OF FUNDS IN THE MICHIGAN have the ability to permit an appeal in those NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST FUND Shall a convention of elected delegates be instances. AND ELIMINATE THE DIVERSION OF convened in 1995 to draft a general revision DEDICATED REVENUE FROM THE of the state constitution for presentation to MICHIGAN NATURAL RESOURCES the state's voters for their approval or rejec- PROPOSALC: TRUST FUND. tion? A REFERENDUM ON PUBLIC ACT 143 OF The proposed constitutional amendment o YES IlI'NO 1993-AN AMENDMENT TO MICHIGAN'S would: AUTO INSURANCE LAWS 1. Establish a Michigan State Parks Endow- \ An affirmative vote on Proposal A would mean Public Act 143 of 1993 would: ment Fund to be funded by certain royal- a constitutional convention would be convened 1. Reduce auto insurance rates by 16% (av- ties, bonuses and rentals collected by the for the purpose of revising our state constitu- erage) for six months for policy holders state from the drilling of oil and gas or tion. Michigan Farm Bureau recommends a NO reducing personal injury (medical) insur- mining of minerals on state-owned land. vote on Proposal A. A major overhaul of the ance to $1 million. Extra coverage made 2. Require that money in the Endowment Michigan Constitution is not needed at this available at added cost. Fund be used to operate, maintain and time. \ 2. Permit Insurance Commissioner to waive improve Michigan state parks. In the last 30 years, if changes have been company's obligation to reduce rates if 3. Limit accumulated principal of the En- needed, the process of proposing and adopting statutory formula would be in excess of dowment Fund to $800 million with an- constitutional amendments has been an effec- 1989-1992 state average. nual adjustments for inflation. tive way to deal with changes. Voters have 3. Place limits on personal injury (medical) amended the Constitution 17 times and re- 4. Increase the maximum principal of the benefits. jected 34 proposed amendments since it was Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund adopted in 1963. 4. Limit fee paid to health care providers. from $200 million to $400 million. It has been estimated that the direct cost to the 5. Limit right to sue by setting higher stan- 5. Eliminate the diversion of dedicated rev- State of Michigan for holding a new Constitu- dards for the recovery of damages for enuefrom the Michigan Natural Resources tional Convention in 1995-96 would be $24 "pain and suffering" and prevent unin- Trust Fund. Million. This does not account for costs to sured drivers and drivers over 50 percent Should this proposal be adopted? various organizations for the purpose of over- at fault from collecting damages. seeing the Constitutional Convention. 6. Allow rate reductions for accident-free o YES ONO driving with the same insurer. \ PROPOSAL B: Should the law be approved? Over the past years, the quality of Michigan • parks has slowly deteriorated due to the un- A PROPOSAL TO LIMIT CRIMINAL APPEALS rs'YES 0 NO availability of funds. An affirmative vote on The proposed constitutional amendment Proposal P would mean that the state would would restrict a criminal defendant who establish a Parks Endowment Fund financed by In 1993, after considerable discussion and de- pleads guilty or nolo contendere (no con- income from the drilling of oil and gas and the bate, the state legislature passed, and the gov- test) from appealing his or her conviction mining of minerals on state lands. Money in this ernor signed into law, a comprehensive set of without the permission of the court. Cur- fund would be earmarked to be used to operate, automobile insurance reforms (P.A.143 of 1993). rently, someone who pleads guilty or no maintain and improve Michigan parks. Another Michigan Farm Bureau strongly supported these contest to a crime has the automatic right to part of the proposal would increase the cap on reforms. In 1994, the Michigan Trial Lawyers appeal. the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Assoc. was able to delay the enactment of the from $200 Million to $400 Million. Should this proposal be adopted? new law through a court order. The Trial Lawyers successfully petitioned to It would also prevent diversion of the Natural MYES ONO Resources Trust Funds for any purpose other , have P.A.143 of 1993 placed on the ballot as than to be used by the state to purchase private t Proposal C. An affirmative vote on Proposal C .... Currently the Michigan Constitution grants" an would allow P.A.143 of 1993 to become law property in and around state parks thus remov- ing this land from the tax rolls and adding to the appeal as a matter of right" within Michigan therefore allowing the reforms to occur. amount of state owned lands. Michigan Farm courts for all accused. An affirmative vote on Michigan Farm Bureau recommends a YES Bureau does not have a position on Proposal P. Proposal B would not allow an appeal by an vote on Proposal C. Farm Bureau's policies accused who pleads guilty or no contest with- support the reforms under P.A.143 of 1993 and out permission of the court. Michigan Farm recognize that the delay in enacting these re- Bureau recommends a YES vote on Proposal B. forms has cost Michigan consumers millions of It is estimated that frivolous appeals by convicts dollars. who originally plead guilty or no contest cost the state of Michigan $3 million per year. It is Farm RURAL LIVING. FALL 1994 1994 GENERAL ELECTION ENDORSEMENTS BY MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU AGRIPAC COMMITTEE Following are the candidates designated as ..Fnends of Agnculture." by the Michigan Farm Bureau AgnPac Committee. The designatIOn constitutes an election endorsement for the Nov. 8. 1994 General Election. U.S. SENATE 11 Gilbert DiNelio (R-Clinton Township) 56 Don Maletich (R-Monroe) Spence Abraham (R-Auburn Hills) 12 Doug Carl (R-M1. Clemens) 57 Tim Walberg (R-Tipton) 13 Michael Bouchard (R-Birmingham) 58 Michael Nye (R-Litchfield) U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 17 Sharon Miller (R-Newport) 59 Glenn Oxender (R-Sturgis) DISTRICT 19 Phil Hoffman (R-Horton) 60 Jackie Morrison (R-Kalamazoo) 1 Gil Ziegler (R-Williamston) 20 Harry Gast (R-S1. Joseph) 61 Charles Perricone (R-Kalamazoo) 2 Peter Hoekstra (R-Holland) 21 Dale Shugars (R-Portage) 62 Eric Bush (R-Battle Creek) 3 Vern Ehlers (R-Grand Rapids) 22 William VanRegenmorter (R-Hudsonville) 63 Don Gilmer (R-Augusta) 4 Dave Camp (R-Midland) 23 Joanne Emmons (R-Big Rapids) 64 Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson) 6 Fred Upton (R-S1. Joseph) 24 John Schwarz (R-Battle Creek) 65 Clyde LeTarte (R-Horton) 7 Nick Smith (R-Addison) 25 Marie Martell (R-East Lansing) 66 Susan Munsell (R-Howell) 8 Dick Chrysler (R-Brighton) 26 Mike Rogers (R-Howell) 67 Dan Gustafson (R-Williamston) 9 Megan O'Neill (R-C1arkston) 27 Dan DeGrow (R-Port Huron) 68 linda Ploeg (R-Holt) 11 Joe Knollenberg (R-Bloomfield Hills) 30 Glen Steil (R-Grand Rapids) 71 Frank Fitzgerald (R-Grand ledge) 12 George Pappageorge (R-Troy) 31 Dick Posthumus (R-Alto) 72 Walter Delange (R-Grand Rapids) 13 John Schall (R-Ann Arbor) 32 Leon Stille (R-Spring Lake) 73 Jack Horton (R-Belmont) 33 Jon Cisky (R-Saginaw) 74 Ken Sikkema (R-Grandville) GOVERNOR 34 Joel Gougeon (R-Bay City) 78 Carl Gnodtke (R-Sawyer) John Engler (R-M1. Pleasant) 35 Bill Schuette (R-Midland) 79 Bob Brackenridge (R-S1. Joseph) 36 George McManus, Jr. (R-Traverse City) 80 James Middaugh (R-Paw Paw) SUPREME COURT (Nonpartisan) 37 Walter North (R-S1. Ignace) 81 Terry london (R-Marysville) Richard Griffin (Traverse City) 38 Don Koivisto (D-lronwood) 82 Karen Willard (D-Algonac) Elizabeth Weaver (Glen Arbor) 83 Kim Rhead (R-Sandusky) SECRETARY OF STATE STATE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 84 Mike Green (R-Mayville) DISTRICT 85 Clark Harder (D-Owosso) Candice Miller (R-M1. Clemens) 1 William Bryant, Jr. (R-Grosse Pointe Farms) 86 Alan Cropsey (R-DeWitt) ATIORNEY GENERAL 8 Ilona Varga (D-Detroit) 87 Terry Geiger (R-lake Odessa) John Smietanka (R-Ada) 9 Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-Detroit) 88 Paul Hillegonds (R-Holland) 21 Deborah Whyman (R-Canton) 89 Jon Jellema (R-Grand Haven) STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION 23 Vincent Porreca (D-Trenton) 90 Jessie Dalman (R-Holland) Clark Durant (R-Grosse Pointe) 25 Robert DeMars (D-Lincoln Park) 91 Paul Baade (D-Muskegon) Sharon Wise (R-Owosso) 26 Tracey Yokich (D-S1. Clair Shores I 93 Gary Randall (R-Alma) 30 Sue Rocca (R-Sterling Heights) 94 Mike Goschka (R-Brant) MSU BOARD OF TRUSTEES 31 James T;gnanelli (R-Fraser) 96 Roland Jersevic (R-Saginaw) Joel Ferguson (D-Lansing) 33 Alvin Kukuk (R-Macomb) 97 Howard Wetters (O-Kawkawlin) Don Nugent (R-Frankfort) 38 Willis Bullard, Jr. (R-Milford) 98 James McNutt (R-Midland) 39 Barbara Dobb (R-Commerce Township) 99 Jim McBryde (R-M1. Pleasant) STATE COURT OF APPEALS (Nonpartisan I DISTRICT 40 John Jamian (R-Bloomfield Hills) 44 David Galloway (R-White Lake) 100 John Llewellyn (R-Fremont) . 101 Bill Bobier (R-Hesperia) 3 Richard Bandstra (Grand Rapids) 45 Penny Crissman (R-Rochester) 102 John Gernaat (R-McBain) Michael Flynn (Muskegon) 46 Tom Middleton (R-Ortonville) 103 Tom Alley (O-West Branch) William Forsyth (Grand Rapids) 47 Sandra Hill (R-Montrose) 104 Michelle McManus (R-lake leelanau) Dawn Krupp (Grand Rapids) 50 Bruce Rider (R-Grand Blanc) 105 Alan Lowe (R-Grayling) 4 Peter O'Connell (M1. Pleasant) 51 Candace Curtis (D-Swartz Creek) 106 Beverly Bodem (R-Alpena) 52 Martin Straub (R-Chelsea) 107 Pat Gagliardi (D-Drummond Island) STATE SENATE 53 Renee Birnbaum (R-Ann Arbor) 108 David Anthony (D-Escanaba) DISTRICT 54 Kirk Profit (D-Ypsilanti) 110 Stephen Dresch (R-Hancock) 7 Christopher Dingell (D-Ecorse) 55 Beverly Hammerstrom (R-Temperance) 9 Robert Geake (R-Northville) RURAL LIVING • FALL 1994 .. Australian and Michigan Farmers A World Apart ... . , ...in Distance Only Although 9/000 miles separates Michigan from lian government to justify agricultural subsidies, , . Australia, Australian Bernard Hart was able to draw some parallels to each country/ s respec- tive agricultural systems during his recent visit explained Hart. "Australia is caught in the cross fire, but I think that the recognition that no country can support . to Michigan. Hart spent two days in Michigan high subsidy levels forever is probably the best touring various farm operations and organiza- , thing that's ever happened," Hart said. " If we , tions . can bring that level playing field back, I think that A farmer himself, Hart and his family own and we can build trade issues up quite regularly." operate a 4/500 acre crop and livestock farm in After visiting European Economic Community Southeastern Australia. Hart produces canola, countries, Hart said he could understand why wheat, oats, and barley on 3/500 acres, while During his two-day tour of Michigan, Australian the United States would want to counterbal- t 7/000 Australian sheep are rotationally grazed farmer Bernard Hart toured the Oesterle Broth- ance European subsidies through the Export on the rest of it. The farm's seed division also Enhancement Program. ers & Golden Acre Farm, located near Mason in processes and markets 70 percent of the canola Ingham County. The operation, consisting of seed sold in Australia. Another correlation Hart recognized was the father Lyle, and brothers Brian, Bruce, Gordon, importance placed on education. Along with Total rainfall in his region of Australia is only half and Marvin, annually raises 3,500 acres of crops being a full-time farmer, Hart works a lot with of Michigan/s total rainfall. According to Hart, including com, wheat, soybeans. They also education by opening his farm to students. "1/ m precipitation levels drop one inch for every 10 feed out 500 to 600 head of cattle annually, in a firm believer that we/ve got to fix up the I ~ miles further inland from the coast, meaning addition to running a 150 head cow/calf opera- education system, so we have farmers that are that nearly 80 percent of Australia's population tion. smart business farmers when they come \ lives within 30 miles of the coast line. home," Hart said. While there, Hart toured the operation's 350, 000 The environment is an issue that Hart sees as a bushel grain storage facility, complete with Michigan State University faculty initially met concern to both Australians and Americans. weigh scales, and fertilizer storage facility. He Hart when he hosted a group of MSU students "We/ve been conscious of it for a lot longer/" was also quite interested in the operation's crop during an overseas study program to Australia. Hart said. "The soils in Australia are just so old rotation, which is currently two years com, While in Michigan, Hart was impressed most and so decayed that you just have got to handle followed by one year soybeans, and one year with the dedication that Michigan State Univer- them very carefully." wheat. \ .. sity showed. "They had a vision that they were The Oesterle's tillage system consists of fall Australia and the U.S.A. are relatively the same going to have some of the best trained people size, but 60 to 70 percent of their land is "zero" out there," Hart said. chisel plowing and, soil conditions permitting, or no-tilled. According to Hart, a massive reveg- one pass with the field cultivator in the spring • etation program has been established with Hart sees the future of the agricultural industry before planting. All nitrogen is applied in the in the hands of our young leaders. "T 0 the a target of a billion trees to be planted by the form of urea in the spring prior to planting. They world, agriculture is a dirty word/" Hart said. year 2000. apply all of their own herbicides pre-emerge, "We/ve been blamed for polluting the rivers and with post-emerge rescue treatment used only The program is not government supported, and causing the sun to go down early, and what when and where needed. is done on a voluntary basis. According to Hart, we've got to do is have people in the next 10 this issue has brought many Australian commu- years that really know what agriculture's all Hart said he was most impressed with the nities and non-farmer and farmers together. about. If we can train them well, they will lead professionalism of the operation, calling the City folks will often spend a weekend helping the agricultural industry in the direction that we farm "simply outstanding." "They (Oesterles) farmers plant some type of permanent vegeta- deserve." know what they're all about, " he said. "It's all . , tion. A dry c1imate, highly acidic soils, and the mis- Hart's interest in alternative higher valued crops and better management systems that Austra- about making money and good honor - good luck to them!" conception that the trees were going to be lian farmers could utilize to keep their produc- there forever, has made reforestation a serious tion costs low, earned him the 1994 Swire issue and a top priority in Australia. "It's not that Group Churchill Fellowship, which has the ob- we overcleared, we didn't realize that the trees jectives to investigate the varieties, agronomic just didn/t live as long in that type of climate/" growing conditions, methods of disease control Hart said. and the end uses of grain legumes. Hart also identified international trade and GAIT Hart is the chairman of the Grain Legume Asso- as a matter confronting both American and ciation of Australia and deputy chairman of the Australian farmers. About 85 percent of Grains Research and Development Corporation Australia/s total agricultural production is ex- of the Southern Panel. ported/ therefore, making it hard for the Austra- RURAL LIVING • FALL 1994 MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU NEW COSPONSOR OF .... .~ BIRTHING EXHIBIT AT MICHIGAN STATE FAIR Michigan Farm Bureau and the county Farm the exhibit also had a chance to visit with The project also allowed several farmer volun- Bureaus of Southeast Michigan were new volunteer farmers about animal care and teers to showcase their talents as well, be sponsors of the Miracle of Life Animal Birthing nutrition. helping to care for the animals and answering Exhibit at the 1994 Michigan State Fair. The questions from those touring the exhibits. Ac- "The Miracle of Life exhibit brought a special exhibit is presented by the Michigan State Uni- cording to MFB President Jack Laurie, that aspect of the Michigan livestock industry to the versity College of Veterinary Medicine and spon- exchange provides a valuable two-way learning state fair this year," saidMichelle Kopcha,project soree!by Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Michigan process. leader, MSU College of Veterinary Medicine. Farm Bureau. "It's unusual for most people to witness the "The birth of animals is a common part of most From Aug. 25 through Sept. 5, several hundred birth of livestock. This project allowed us to Michigan farm operations, but for non-farmers, thousand state fair goers had a chance to see showcase the role of the veterinarian in the it can be quite a unique and awe-inspiring event several sheep, pigs, and cows give birth as well birthing process." to witness," said Laurie. "Farm families, who as a new exciting chick hatchery with over two care so much for the animals they raise,are very dozen chicks hatching each day. Those touring pleased to a new co-sponsors of this exhibit." RURAL LIVING • FALL 1994 .. ", .: ..',. .A FEW ~N\All REASONS ' .. \ 'r . ( \~ ' ... ,' , L \ f-' t/ , ~ .-, , " \, f... For.over forty y'ears~Farm B.~r~au.a~dBlue C~ossBlue Shield . ,have tea~ed' up to provide quality bea.lth care at competjtiv~ group rates , t . ' '" with th~ pe!sonalized servi,ce you would eXRectfro~ a Farm Bureau !,amily membership . .~/ No matter what your needs... small business: sole proprietor, or'individual coverage for you or your family- ,~ .. we have the right plan at the right price. Blue Cross Blue Shield. quality aQd Farm Bureau''s personalized service provide an ,unbeatable combination that you can;t a'fford to be without when protecting the "small" things in life that are of big importance to you. _ 4 For information, call 1-800-292-2680 or contact your local Farm Bureau agent. _"MICHIGAN .... FARM BUREAU RURAL LIVING. FALL 1994 I I . , . • t- Be Prepared for a \ JVli9hi,ga~Winter ) As-we move into Michigan's long 90Id-weather'season, the time is right to plan for your security in the months ahead. Protect Your Home Protect Your Auto Protect Yourself • 'Have your heating system inspected by a • Have your cooling system checked and • Shoveling snow and pushing cars can lead to professional. Regular checkups will keep it op- flushed if necessary, Be sure your antifreeze sore muscles, strains, and heart attacks. Know erating safely andefficiently. provides sufficient protection. your limits, rest often, and don't overdo it. Avoid ,, • Caulkorweatherstrip windows anddoors that • Be sure your battery is ready for cold- frostbite and hypothermia by dressing to suit allow drafts to enter your home. But if you planto weather starts. conditions. Put on waterproof gear before you ',IL use a fuel-burning space heater to supplement get wet, and warm clothing before you start to • Check your tires for wear. shiver. Wet clothing loses 90 percent of its your central heating system, be sure to have • Consider carrying a winter survival insulation value. adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of ." toxic gases inyour home. emergency kit in your car: flares or reflective • Be sure your snowblower is in good operat- triangles; a shovel; a box of abrasive material ing condition. Don't try to remove snow clogs • More about space heaters: Use only proper (such as sand, salt. or cat box filler); a window from the chute until you shut the engine off. fuels, and maintain adequate clearances - at scraper and brush; a flashlight; two wool Watch for debris that could be picked up and least 36 inches between the heater and any- blankets; two plastic trash bags; a coffee thrown by the impeller. thing that burns. Keep children away, too. can with candle and matches; and some non- • Keep in touch with your Farm Bureau • If you have an electric space heater, keep it perishable food .• Insurance agent, who will help you make sure out of bathrooms and other wet areas. all your insurance coverages are adequate and , . • If you have a wood heating stove, be sure it is installed properly and in good working order. up to date. • Water pipes that freeze and burst can cause major damage. Insulate pipes in areas suscep- tible to freezing. And if you do experience a ,,. . frozen pipe, don't try to thaw it with a blowtorch or other open flame. • Keep sidewalks free of ice and snow - and keep the snow cleared from around your near- est fire hydrant. Drive with Care on Rural Roads A drive in the country can be a pleasant experi- ence for you and your family. But there are dangers, especially during haNest season, for you to watch out for. In Michigan, reports from the State Police have indicated that motorists and Work slow-moving farm equipment become involved in accidents on public roads at the rate of almost one per day. Traffic statistics for rural areas tell us that ... Your Way • Most accidents involve farm equipment on the move. A smaller number of accidents involve parked vehicles, fixed objects, or animals. • Most accidents occur on dry roads during Through College? daylight. • Most two-vehicle accidents are rear-end collisions. Keep in mind that a motorist traveling 55 m.p.h. on a rural road who sees a tractor 400 feet ahead traveling at 15 m.p.h. has only seven seconds to slow down and avoid a crash. In urban areas, a third of the people killed in motor vehicle accidents are pedestrians. But in rural areas, fatal accident victims are more likely to be Not Anymore! vehicle occupants. And while impaired driving College costs have risen so much, that students definitely need help from mom and dad and failure to wear seat belts are major concerns or a scholarship. in both urban and rural areas, high speeds and A student trying to pay his or her way through school by flipping hamburgers at minimum wage unsafe road conditions escalate the death rate in is fighting a tough battle. There just aren't enough hours in the day to earn the kind of money the countryside. that college now costs. Here are tips for safe driving in the country: However, working part-time during college can still be very beneficial. In fact, studies show that students who work part-time get better grades because it forces them to manage • Although rural back roads and highways may their time better. not be heavily patrolled by law enforcement officers, they are not race tracks. Obey posted And any money a student earns certainly will be needed when college costs are rising at speed limit signs - and slow down when road a rate of 5 to 6 percent per year. Even attending a public land-grant university like Michigan and weather conditions deteriorate. Rural roads State can cost nearly $1 0,000 a year when all costs - tuition, fees,room and board, books, and may be rough, narrow, and have abrupt CUNes, miscellaneous expenses - are figured in. hills, and valleys. Dust, rain, and snow can also If you are a parent, you probably want to make sure your children have the benefit of a make travel hazardous. college education. • Watch for slippery mud that may be tracked One good way to reach that goal is to use life insurance as a college fund. Farm Bureau Life onto roads by farm equipment. offers plans that will make sure you have the money to send your kids to college. Your Farm • Traffic signs at rural intersections may be Bureau Insurance agent can help you get started today. missing, damaged, or hidden by vegetation. Al- ways slow down and be prepared to stop at Annuities: The Kings of Tax-Deferred Growth intersections, narrow bridges, and all rural rail- When you don't want risk - but you still want your money to grow at a healthy rate - one of road crossings. your best choices is an annuity. • Be alert for slow-moving farm vehicles. Most slow vehicles will display a red-and-orange For example, the Single Premium Deferred Annuity from Farm Bureau Life Insurance slow-moving vehicle sign along with flashing Company of Michigan combines a high degree of safety, high interest rates, and tax- deferred growth. lights. When approaching a farm vehicle, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop. Before An annuity is one of the few places left where your money can grow tax-deferred. passing, check for oncoming traffic and also That makes an annuity a great alternative to certificates of deposit. check your rear view mirror to see jf someone is And while your money is growing, you are building an important retirement fund for yourself. trying to pass you. And remember that some With a Single Premium Deferred Annuity, you make a deposit one time only, and we'll farm implements are extra wide. guarantee you a retirement income for life. • Watch for loose farm animals or wildlife on the road. When traveling through deer country, pay Your portfolio isn't complete without a high-yielding annuity from Farm Bureau attention to deer crossing warnings. Life, one of the safest and top performing life insurers in America, according to Ward Financial Group. • Watch for pedestrians and cyclists. If neces- sary, tap your horn to alert them - but don't Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent for an appointment and latest rate information. frighten them by blasting your horn. FARM BUREAU INSURANCE OVER $ 18x-WJSePlanning by Rich Pomeroy, Advanced Sales Consultant, Farm Bureau Insurance RAISED N AGANSTCA C If you could gain the ability to: , . • Retain dollars during your lifetime that you would otherwise pay to the government in Some 60 county golf tournaments, followed by statewide tournament finals, have raised more than $1 million in Michigan this year for income, capital gain, inheritance and estate taxes and put them to work for the benefit of you and your family; the fight against cancer, thanks in large part to the efforts of Farm Bureau Insurance agents • Choose today the social, religious, community, and cultural causes that will benefit at your and employees. death from the dollars that you and your family benefited from during life and would have \ . otherwise paid in taxes; Farm Bureau Insurance was proud to serve as the corporate sponsor for 13 local American • f • Get a current tax deduction for doing so, would you be interested? Cancer Society tournaments as well as the With a Charitable Remainder Trust, you can give assets to a favorite charitable cause in the state tournament finals this past summer. Many future and retain lifetime income and investment rights to those assets. of our agents and managers volunteered on local tournament boards, while employees and More than 25 years ago, Congress approved this tax-wise planning tool which allows an a number of agents also competed in the events. individual to establish a gift of a specific asset to a favorite charity today while retaining the rights to the income from that asset until death when it passes to the charity. The local and state tournaments feature four-person scrambles at three proficiency lev- Essentially, the individual is able to make a larger gift than he or she thought possible to a els in divisions for both men and women. Golf- favorite charity. ers compete with players of similar skills. Every- By combining the benefits of a Charitable Remainder Trust with those of a Wealth Replacement one has a chance to win a county tournament, Trust, it's possible to provide an increased income benefit for yourself for life, increase the and state tournament. Winners advance to na- amount of inheritance you provide for your heirs, and provide a lasting benefit for the charitable tional finals at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. cause of your choice. The American Cancer Society golf tournament Wouldn't you like to take advantage of this tax-wise planning and limit your tax liability now and is widely recognized as the premier golf pro- \ provide for loved ones and favorite causes later? gram among non-profit organizations, and the organization's national finals tournament is the To find out how you can put this powerful tool to work for you, contact your Farm Bureau largest amateur championship in the country. Insurance agent today. Most importantly, money that is raised funds a variety of cancer prevention activities: breast cancer and skin cancer screenings, smoking cessation programs, cancer research, and more. Free Booklet Tells About Kids' Love for The American Cancer Society tournament pro- America gram fits the long-range objectives and culture Michigan eighth graders have a special love for America and they express it eloquently of Farm Bureau Insurance, according to Jack in a new booklet called" America & Me - Reflections on America." Stucko, director of Corporate Communications, -, The booklet, available free of charge, is a collection of prize winning essays and excerpts because of the company's commitment to com- from student entries in the 25th annual America & Me Essay Contest. Use the coupon munity involvement. in this issue of Insights to order your free copy of the booklet. "We're entering our second quarter-century of • t Farm Bureau Insurance has been sponsoring the America & Me Essay Contest for the America & Me Essay contest and the sev- Michigan eighth graders since 1968. About 500 Michigan schools and 10,000 eighth enth year of our Michigan High School Athletic Association Scholar-Athlete scholarships," he graders participate every year. said. "Education has long been our primary The America & Me Essay Contest is the oldest of the many youth-oriented programs interest. The health of our policyholders and all started and sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance. Michiganians is our mandate and key concern Another popular youth program is the Scholar-Athlete Award, sponsored by Farm Bureau as an insurance company. This special partner- Insurance in conjunction with the Michigan High School Athletic Association. ship with the American Cancer Society sup- ports all of those objectives." This program provides 24, $1,000 college scholarships for Michigan high school seniors who excel in academics and athletics. The scholarships, now in their seventh year, Farm Bureau Insurance is planning to expand generated nearly 2,000 applications from 430 Michigan schools last year. local tournament sponsorships in 1995. To find out more about the program, call your local Farm Bureau Insurance also sponsors Junior Achievement, Future Farmers of America, _ 1 \ . and Michigan High School Athletic Association tournaments and playoffs . American 1-800-ACS-2345. Cancer Society office or Test Your Smoke -- ::J -: ~ ~ ~ - - "c- I "'1.:-' 2. .... i ~ Free for You: Detector - Today -:1 5. ~ ~ ~ ~~: . ~ I' T~ :~I~~ SJ 2: f~:t • Early Indians of Michigan, a popu- lar Farm Bureau Insurance publica- At least once a month, be sure to Michigan State Police suspect a theft ring is hitting horse barns and tion used each year by teachers, test your smoke detectors and re- stables throughout Michigan. The target: saddles and tack. students, libraries, and civic groups place the batteries if needed. Owner In response to this growing problem, Farm Bureau Insurance is all across the state. neglect of testing and battery re- offering a $5,000 reward leading to the arrest and conviction of the placement has been identified as a • The Homeowners Inventory Bro- persons responsible for the thefts. major cause of smoke detector fail- chure, which will help you list, room ure and subsequent disaster. Fresh "This is a serious threat to Michigan horse owners," said Bill by room, the items you own, their batteries should last for about a Monville, director of property claims for Farm Bureau Insurance. value, and their replacement cost. If year. If your battery-powered de- "We hope the $5,000 reward will help put a stop to the thefts. A lot your home were ever damaged or tector begins to emit its low-power of rural communities will breathe easier when these thieves are burglarized, it would be important warning, remove the weak battery caught." for you to remember all those items and replace it immediately with a and their values to help us settle Thefts reported in at least 14 counties already account for more than fresh one. your loss properly. $340,000 of stolen saddles and tack across the state, Monville said. If you're bothered by nuisance • Reflections on America, a collec- According to Detective Sgt. Palmer, who is coordinating the saddle alarms, don't disable your smoke tion of ideas and ideals expressed theft investigation for the Michigan State Police, the targeted areas detector; consider moving it instead. by Michigan eighth graders who appear to be central and southeast Michigan. However, saddles are Cooking smoke from the kitchen or have entered our annual America & being reported stolen as far west as Kent and Kalamazoo counties, emissions from a space heater or Me Essay Contest. Palmer said. fireplace might be setting it off. To order any of these publications, Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to contact Smoke detectors don't require Detective Sgt. Palmer of the Michigan State Police at 517-782-0464. check the response form below much attention - and in return, they The reward money posted by Farm Bureau Insurance will be and return it to us. might save your life and your prop- awarded after the arrest and convictions. erty. Test them regularly and re- place weak batteries. __ -..r- _ We hope you enjoyed this second issue of Insights. We would like to hear from you. Use this coupon to suggest story topics, request more information, or to order free items. I. READER INTEREST What insurance topics would you like to see covered in upcoming issues? _ II. FINDING OUT MORE IV. YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS Please let us know if you'd like an agent to contact you about: Name _ o Free Insurance Review Address _ o CD Alternatives City State ZIP _ o Homeowners Insurance County Phone # _ o Life Insurance o Other: _ MAil TO: Insights III. FREE Check the free material you would like mailed to you: FARM BlJREAlJ II=' Communications Dept. Farm Bureau Insurance o Early Indians of Michigan booklet 'NSlJRANCE P.O. Box 30400 o Homeowner's Inventory brochure IAIM IUIlAU MUTUAL • IARM IUllIAU lilt IAIM IUlllAU GfNlUl • " ANNUITl Lansing, MI 48909-7900 o Reflections on America by Michigan eighth graders ~RRIED FACES OF OUR INSUREDS. Worry? Not them. And why should you when you can protect your life savings with a Long Term Care Plan from AMEX Life Assurance Company? Regrettably, two in five older adults will require nursing home care.! With costs averaging about $30,000 per year2 it's easy to see just how devastating this can be. But it doesn't have to be this way. With AM EX Life you can plan on peace of mind. AMEX Life, an American Express company, has over 16 years experience in long-term care insurance and is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best.3 Don't be worried by the costs of long-term care. Call or write today for more information from your local Farm Bureau Insurance Agent on the options available to you. Represe1lti1lg: AMEX a subsidiary of @ II Life Assurance Company "':,.~ TRAVEL RELATED SERVICES @ I. Consumer's Guide to long-Term Care Insurance, HIAA 1989 2. U.S. News & World Report, Aug. 13, 1990 3. Independent analysrs of rhe insurance indusrry who base rheir analysis on financial strength and operating performance. TO RECEIVE ADDmONAL INFORMATION AND A BROCHURE/APPUCATION , PLEASE FILL OUT THE COUPON BELOW OR CALL DIRECT 1-800-292-2680 EXT- 2742. IT.,. Please Print _,.ItI'CH'6AN FARM BUREAU Name Please mail to: Michigan Farm Bureau Address Membership Services P.O. Box 30960 Ci State ZIP lansing, MI 48909 P n Coun . - -. /<:~,.;"~c,;:;~~c;C'''j''(;fi1'''' . ~---- . :~~_---:-'/ .. MICHIGAN CRANBERRY PRODUCTION Feasible Economically, Questionable Legislatively As Thanksgiving time rolls around, so do thoughts commodities and the resultant depressed prices The common production measure for cranber- of a bountiful Thanksgiving day dinner complete have Michigan farmers looking at cranberries as ries is a barrel, which equals 100 pounds. Yields with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, pumpkin an alternative. range from 100-400 barrels per acre with an pie and last, but not least, cranberries. But have average of 180 barrels per acre. Cranberry Market/Economics you ever thought about where those cranberries Potential In Michigan come from? The cranberry market is characterized by strong Depends on Regulatory Hurdles demand and a short supply. Growing consump- Although Michigan has one of the most diverse tion of bottled juice, canned sauce, and frozen Water - the most critical ingredient for cranberry agricultural industries in the United States, sec- concentrate now account for about 90 percent of production, will likely be the biggest hinderance ond only to California, cranberry production is the total market. Ocean Spray Cooperative is the to production in the state of Michigan. Many very small. However, as cranberry demand in- dominant player in the cranberry industry, con- would-be cranberry producers are keeping a creases, so does the interest from farmers who trolling 80 to 85 percent of the total crop. watchful eye on the outcome of a recent court want to make cranberries another unique crop on This demand has ignited a willingness forproduc- battle between the Michigan Department of the commodity list of Michigan agricultural prod- Natural Resources and a farmers wanting to ucts. ers to expand production. Michigan blueberry grower Joe DeGrandchamp of South Haven, construct a cranberry operation. Massachusetts and Michigan's neighbor to the feels cranberry production could be a viable op- Western Michigan University and MSU's CES west, Wisconsin, are the top two cranberry pro- tion for his blueberry operation. are also exploring potential production areas, but ducing states in the country. Although Wisconsin "1 think it's something to look at," said obtaining the necessary permits to construct the and Michigan are two states that have a similar DeGrandchamp. "1 see it enhancing our busi- marshes is expected to be a major roadblock to environment, there is an enormous difference in ness because it doesn't conflict with our blue- commercial production. Researchers are also cranberry production. Wisconsin has 12,000 berry haNest and we can incorporate it well with looking at alternative cultural practices that would acres in cranberry production, compared to our existing operation." require less water such as dry haNesting and Michigan's total of 20 acres. snow machines or covers to protect against Over 40 percent of the nation's cranberries are Cranberry production is very complimentary to winter kill. produced in Wisconsin, in an area that was once blueberry operations because of its similar needs for low-lying, rich, fertile soil. However, cranber- Cranberry plants are a relatively short plant, reach- abandoned by would-be row crop farmers due to ries are haNested during September - the off- ing only 6 to 8 inches in height, and have a shallow frost and acidic soil problems. Eventually, wild season for blueberries, meaning that producers root system of only 3 to 4 inches, making water cranberries took over the cleared ground, starting can utilize the same equipment but haNest the management the most critical ingredient to suc- what is today a $80 million industry making crops at different times. cessful production, according to MFB Commod- Wisconsin second in the nation for cranberry ity Specialist Bob Boehm. production. "Generally, cranberries require six to 10 acres of Nearly 150 growers manage 110,000 acres of water reservoir area for each acre of production, " wetlands and uplands that provide the water Boehm said. "The water is required for irrigation needed for an estimated 10,000 acres of cran- during the growing season, as well as for frost berry marshes. An additional 2,000 acres are protection and haNesting. expected to be in production within another two to five years, although expansion problems are Interest is so great in developing Michigan's being encountered due to growing sensitivity cranberry industry further that over 100 produc- over wetlands, critical to cranberry production. ers attended a conference to increase their knowl- edge of the fruit. According to Ken Nye, Michigan Teryl Roper, Extension fruit specialist at the Uni- Farm Bureau Commodity Activities and Research versity of Wisconsin-Madison, believes that leg- Division Director, there is a close knit group of 30 islative and historical implications have kept cran- blueberry producers who are learning more about berry production from becoming significant in the potential of cranberry production. Michigan. "For the past two years, the group has been " Laws that were passed by the Wisconsin State involved with several seminars, meetings and Legislature late in the 1800s gave our state's even trips to Wisconsin," said Nye. "They have cranberry growers the right to divert water for the expressed a real interest in expanding the Michi- purpose of producing cranberries, and Michigan gan cranberry industry and have involved them- doesn't have similar laws," said Roper. selves with getting as much information as they In addition, points out Roper, Michigan's unique can." climate has also lent itself to growing other In the near future, you may even have a neighbor specialty fruit crops, such as peaches, apples, who grows cranberries for you to savor at Thanks- and cherries. However, over-production of those giving Dinner. RURAL LIVING • FALL 1994 Michigan communities could follow the lead of Peninsula Township will serve as an inspiration for other Michigan communities seeking new tools for protecting their threatened farmland," said Bidwell. "In fact, I am convinced it could well become a model for the rest of the Midwest and beyond." Pontz, however, is less enthusiastic about the concept applying on a widespread basis, saying the aesthetic value of the Peninsula makes the situation a little unique and that may not apply elsewhere in the state. "1 think we need to look closely at the fact that residents of the Penin- sula Township wanted to protect an agriculture that has a beautiful, aesthetic view in a scenic location," she said. 'f "Whether or not those same concepts could transfer to a Cass County hog farm and corn field is questionable in my mind," Pontz cau- tioned. "That doesn't mean that other local units of government shouldn't consider it, but I Here's a bird's eye view of the reason for the struggle between farming and development, scenic think it's less likely that local tax payers are beauty that's created high demand and value for farmland. willing to pay for preserving farmland if it's not something that has such aesthetic value to go along with it." A 17 mile long by two mile wide strip of ground nearly $6,000 an acre at some locations. In at known as PeninsulaTownship is known for the least two instances that Manigold is aware of, P.A. 116 Implications production of cherries and most recently, vin- farmers own shoreline property that can reach Would this program replace Michigan's Farm- ifera grapes used in wine making. Fortunately or a value of anywhere between $1,000 to $2,000 land and Open Space Act, P.A. 116, program? unfortunately, that same strip of ground is a a foot. Absolutely not says Pontz. In fact she contends peninsula located in the GrandTraverse Bayand According to Manigold, who is also a fourth that similar development rights programs would \ is also notorious for its scenic value, and esca- generation cherry farmer, the Peninsula Town- actually complement P.A. 116, especially in lating development value. ship began looking at different ways of preserv- areas where development pressure is so in- InAugust, PeninsulaTownship residents added ing farmland in 1988. The township conducted tense that P.A. 116 might not provide a strong to that notoriety, approving a 1-1/4 mill millage surveys among township residents on what enough incentive to protect farmland. question by a 53 to 47 percent margin, to fund was important to them. Farmland, shoreline "There are a lot of areas in this state where P.A. the purchase of development rights from farm- and scenic views came back on every survey as 116 has effectively preserved farmland," Pontz ers located on the peninsula, according to Pen- a top priority. Those findings led to some very said. "In areas as unique as the Peninsula \ insulaTownship Supervisor, Rob Manigold. The different views of how best to protect those Township, however, the development pres- millage is the first of its kind in Michigan and in assets. sure and consequently the value, is so high that the midwest. "We had some people who felt that zoning was getting out of P.A. 116 and paying back your The millage will raiseapproximately $2.6 million the answer to all of our problems," said credits is peanuts. They're actually going to use annually for the township to use in purchasing Manigold. "But Ipersonallythink zoningamounts both programs on the same piece of property in development rights from farmers. Peninsula to nothing more than a taking, and that there Peninsula Township." township is home to nearly 17,000 acres, with had to be a fairer way to create a voluntary Manigold agrees with Pontz, saying that P.A. 10,000 acres zoned agricultural, with an esti- program. This program allows the farmer to get 116 and the program's payback funds can actu- his development equity out of the farm, but also 'I' mated 7,000 acres actually farmed. Interested farmers can voluntarily apply for the keep his farm and preserve all of his rights as a ally be used by the Department of Natural Resources to purchase development rights on farmer. " high-value properties, such as the case with program to sell their development rights. Once they do so, an appraisal will be conducted to The only rights that participants are giving up is shoreline property. determine the agricultural value and the devel- the right to develop the land, explained Vicki Case in point, Manigold says is the recent DNR opment value of the property. Pontz, legislative counsel for Michigan Farm acquisition of development rights on a 72-acre Bureau. "Participants in the program give up, in winery known as the Chateau Grand Traverse Once the development value is determined, the perpetuity, their rights to develop land," ex- PeninsulaTownship will, in essence, enter into located on the Old Mission Peninsula, a first for plained Pontz. "But they have not given up their the state. The DNR is also in the process of a land contract to purchase the development right to farm it or sell it for agricultural purposes. rights from the farmer over a 15-year period, purchasing development rights of land located It's also important to remember that it's strictly in Emmet County valued at $20,000 an acre. with interest. Manigold expects the first agree- a voluntary program." \ . .-l , ments will be completed sometime next spring or summer. Development values are expected to average Dennis Bidwell, director of land protection for American Farmland Trust, characterized the program as "an innovative and equitable means The big difference between DNR purchase of development rights and Peninsula Township development rights purchase program is who between $1,500 to $2,000 an acre, according to actually owns the development rights. In the of protecting farmland and open space." case of the DNR, the state of Michigan owns Manigold. There are exceptions to that average, however, with development values reaching "We believe the Peninsula Township program the rights; in the case of the township program, the township owns the rights. RURAL LIVING • FALL 1994 Huron County Extension Agent Jim LeCureux explains the various tillage and planting methods used on sugar beet test plots and demonstration sites at the Russ Voelker farm. Jim Shaw (left) and son, Mike, operate a 1,400 acre cash crop farm, raising com, dl}' beans, and wheat all with conventional tillage. They agreed to rent 40 acres of their ground to the Innovative Farmers group to demonstrate various tillage systems that could reduce soil erosion. This past winter, 46 Huron County farmers and 32 Last winter, the farmers met in three different Shaw explained. "Everybody has an opinion different commercial sponsors, including lending commodity groups to develop their management on what works best. but this allows us to see I institutions, elevators, farm suppliers, and imple- schemes for their particular crop under four differ- it first-hand. When you have these agri- ment dealers banded together to form the "Inno- ent tillage systems. As a result. two 4(}acre par- business people backing you up and showing vative Farmers of Huron County." cels were rented for purposes of conducting dem- their support, it definitely makes it much easier to Their goal? To reduce wind and water erosion and onstration plots from farmers and Innovative Farmer try something different." ultimately improve water quality, specifically wa- members, Ross Voelker and Mike and Jim Shaw. The support of the ag-business community has ter that drains into the Saginaw Bay and Lake Four basic tillage systems are being compared, been impressive to Shaw, and has actually made Huron, while continuing to grow unique high- including fall plowing, fall chisel, trans-till, and zone the demonstration projects as much their project valued crops such as sugar beets and dry beans in till. The group is planning to conduct the demon- as those of the farmers. LeCureux believes that a cropping rotation of sugar beets, corn, dry beans, stration for at least five years. In addition to yield participation by these businesses is crucial if re- and soybeans. and economic evaluations of the plot work, soil duced tillage and no-till are to ever succeed in "With sugar beets, you're talking about a veg- quality measurements will be made to determine Huron county. etable seed that's very small and it's very sensitive the amount of change over time in the different "I don't think a farmer can change on his own," as to the depth of planting," said Huron County tillage systems. LeCureux advocated. "The banker, the fertilizer Extension Agent Jim LeCureux. "You're also plant- "We know that regulations are just on the horizon people, implement dealers all have an influence on ing that seed in late April and early May under less and these farmers would like to be prepared if and these farmers and their decisions. So we're all than ideal conditions when the soils tend to be cold when that happens," explained LeCureux. "This is trying to learn and change together here, because and wet. So we have to figure out how to combat also an opportunity for us to begin a dialogue with if just one of those key players makes a wrong those problems and get the good germination and environmental groups and let them know that recommendation to the farmer, the system is emergence necessary for a fast start." these farmers are just as concerned about the ruined. " Recently, the group hosted an impressive farm environment - they all have kids that like to use The other point LeCureux wants to drive home, tour at their two 4(}acre demonstration sites, with the water to go fishing and swimming." both with farmers and non-farmers is that enough interested farmers to fill five tour busses. Innovative Farmer member Mike Shaw agrees the conversion from conventional tillage to mini- The group, and apparently a number of other wholeheartedly with LeCureux, and adds that the mum-till or no-till doesn't happen overnight. farmers, are looking for answers to some tough group approach to learning and exploring new and that economics play a big role in manage- questions, according to LeCureux. systems will make that eventual transition some- ment decisions. "We know that some of our farming practices what smoother and easier to do. "Everyone that's driving this call for change has to have also created compaction problems and the Shaw and his father, Jim, operate a 1,400 cash understand that it's going to take time and it's soil has gotten tighter over the years," LeCureux crop farm raising corn, drybeans and wheat. all going to be costly," LeCureux said. "If we're going said. "So we're looking at how to put cover crops with conventional tillage. They agreed to rent 40 to make reduced tillage work, we can't have two back on, how do we change our tillage and reduce acres of their ground to the Innovative Farmers lines of equipment out here for a farmer. So we've traffic on the fields, and what can we do to improve group. got to figure out how to operate with higher the tilth of the fields, while leaving enough residue "I want to be able to see the different systems and residue levels, and it's got to be economical and on the surface." what I think is going to work best on my ground," profitable. " RURAL LIVING. FALL 1994 MFB Playing Vital Role in 4-H Kettunen Center's Vision 2021 This year, the Michigan 4-H Foundation launched Michigan 4-H's reputation in non-formal educa- Bureaus across the state backed a major fund one the most ambitious fund raising initiatives tion, particularly in sciences, technology, career raising campaign to build the Aspen Lodge dormi- ever undertaken by the organization. The cam- development and for early adolescents, is tory at Kettunen Center. And, in 1961, Kettunen paign, which anticipates two years of effort, is requiring staff and volunteers to provide work- Center opened. targeted at renovation and expansion of the shop training in these fields. Kettunen Center That partnership continues today with the Farm Kettunen Conference Center for 4-H leaders is at the heart of this leader and youth Bureau support of Vision 2021. Earlier this year, and youth. The proposal represents a $3.8 mil- training effort. the Michigan Farm Bureau board of directors lion fund raising goal. "The 4-H program all across Michigan is going pledged the organization's resources to raise "Vision 2021 is the name for Kettunen Center's to be impacted when the construction is fin- $150,000 for renovation of Aspen Lodge at I far-reaching master plan," explains Don Jost, executive director of the Michigan 4-H Founda- tion. "So first and foremost, it is a plan for how ished at Kettunen Center, " says Jost. "The 160 acres we own includes forest, lake frontage, wetlands and other features. We'll have stu- Kettunen Center. By September, the Michigan Farm Bureau campaign was solidly underway and contributions from individuals, organiza- Kettunen Center programs and services will dent laboratories and high tech communica- tions, and county Farm Bureaus were being best be maintained and made available to people tions systems needed for modern training received. for several decades into the next century." events. We will also t:>ebetter prepared to teach The Aspen Lodge campaign kick-off dinner, the 4-H veterinary science project, entomology, For the past 33 years, 4-H Kettunen Center, Sept. 14, at the Kellogg Center, East Lansing, flower and vegetable gardening and a host of situated on 160 acres of rolling hills and lake was attended by over 200 supporters. Since other program areas popular with kids." front property in Northern Michigan, near Tustin, then, additional pledges from 16 county Farm Mich., has been the premier site for leadership Traditional Partners for Bureaus have been received. So far, 23 county development of Michigan's 30,000 adult and Leadership Development Farm Bureaus of the state's 69 organized county teen 4-H volunteers since 1961. The Michigan Farm Bureau was among the Farm Bureaus have made contributions to the original organizations to support the construc- campaign. They are: Alpena, Arenac, Bay, Kettunen Center hosts weekend workshops tion of the Kettunen Center, then called" Camp Berrien, Calhoun, Cass, Copper Country, to help adults and teens develop a wide array Kett." In 1960, Farm Bureau and county Farm Genesee, Gladwin, Gratiot, lostco, Isabella, of leadership skills for working effectively Kalamazoo, Midland, Newaygo, with more than 236,000 Michigan Ogemaw, Ottawa, Presque Isle, 4-H'ers. It is also the site for Saginaw, Tuscola, Washtenaw, 4-H youth workshops and serves and Wexford. as host to events offered by church, education, business, "The Michigan Farm Bureau cQm- government and other youth paign for this project is the single serving organizations. most important development so far. The tremendous county Farm Vision 2021 Bureau commitments to this The Center's role in 4-H and project provide a testimony that youth leadership training is local people believe in the 4-H expected to expand dramatically program and also realize we all in the years ahead. 4-H leader need to invest in its future," says training is expected to increase Jost. "That sends a big message with expansion of program to other potential major funders of opportunities and the increased a project like this one - a mes- complexity of working with young sage that thousands of people care people in today's society. whether the Kettunen Center is there for their children and grandchildren's benefit." Michigan Farm Bureau Hosts Gala Fund Raiser Seven county Farm Bureaus were honored at a gala dinner, Wed., Sept. 14, where they received recognition for "Pacesetter" contributions to the Michigan Farm Bureau campaign for the renovation of Aspen Lodge at the Kettunen Center, near Tustin, Mich. Pacesetter County Farm Bureaus - Berrien, Calhoun, Eaton, Genesee, Kalamazoo, Ottawa and Saginaw - pledged at least $5,000 each. Guests at the gala dinner, who paid $100 a couple, were entertained by 4-H youth and took part in lively auction bidding for donated items. A special reception preceded the dinner program, where Donors' Club contributors were honored. These contributors pledged or contributed donations of $450 or more to the Michigan Farm Bureau campaign. The Center, formerly known as "Camp Kett," is used to train 4-H leaders and youth from across the state. The Michigan Farm Bureau has pledged $150,000 in contributions and pledges. Future activities to support the campaign include a fund-raiser golf outing in Spring 1995. To make pledges or contributions to the Aspen Lodge Campaign, contact Mike Kovacic, director of the Michigan Farm Bureau Information & Public Relations Division, 1-800-292-2680, extension 6586. ••• & •• TAKETHE BITE OUT,OF'DENTALCARE,COSTS . ,I' , # Member dental insurance is the affordable way to aSSurethat you and your family receive the dental care services you require -- even when sudden and costly needs arise. , ~ • I Measure the rates against your annual dent~1 care bills and cohsider the advantage! Single '$18 per month ~ Couple $32 per month . ~ Member/Chil.d $32 per month • Family $41 per.month . .. - .' .. MICHiGAN .' . . ... F~RItI BIJREAIJ . ( - TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND A BROCHURE/APPLICATION, PLEASE FILL OUT THE COUPON BELOW OR CALL DIRECT '-800.292-2680 EXT - 3237. Please Print Please mail to: Michigan Farm Bureau Membership Services P.O. Box 30960 Address Lansing, MI 48909 Ci State ZIP Customized Trip Routing! It's new, it's free and it's designed especially 1/ for Farm Bureau MemberLine VISA and Gold MasterCard '6'0lders on the move. Simply tell ~ ~Cro, us where you're going, whether you want to ~ take the scenic route or get there fast ... and & we'll do the rest! Within three days you'll receive detailed maps to your destinanon 6:f custom fit~o'ly8~r specifications and trav,el plans. It's a convenience ¥ou can use as you enfoy'mB'ffi'any other benefits and advantages you receive with a ~rm Bureau MemberLine VISA or Gold MasterCard. Better Variablec-Interest Rates The Gold MasterCard has a 12.9% APR* - one of the lowest interest rates available! The t interest ratebn the MemberLine VISA is a low 14.4% APR< In addition: you pay no interest on.new credit card purchases whenyou.r-'full "'balance is paid• by the due date. ,7' • The MemberLine VISA has no annual fee and the annual fee for the Gold MasterCard is $20, which is rebated every year that you make ( $3,000 or more in net purchases. Better premiums Both the MemberLine VISA and the Gold MasterCard offer a wide array of complimentary features and options~for your protection and peace of mind. And when you carry a Gold MasterCard, you'll enjoy the added advantages of a higher credit line, executive travel privileg~s, emergency road assistance, purchase protection insurance and a warranty extension program - valuableollextras" you f and your family can depend on. Convinced? ....... Simply remove this page from the magazine and fill out the application on the reverse side. Letterfold and staple the form with the mailing address on the outside. No postage necessary! CLASSIC 14.4% Variable A.P.R. and GOLD 12.9% Variable A.P.R.- effective October 1. 1993 based on September 15. 1993 Prime Rate. , II No Postage Necessary It Mailed Within The United States Business Reply Mail ... First Class Permit No. 2334 Kalamazoo, MI Postage will be paid by addressee FIRST OF AMERICA BANK REVOLVING CREDIT DIVISION ATTN: FARM BUREAU MEMBER SERVICES P.O. BOX 2349 KALAMAZOO, MI 49003-9917 CARD PREFERENCE (choose one design only) I OPTIONAL GROUP CREDIT INSURANCE Optional Group Credit Insurance o Scenic VISA CTL VR 6400 09 PL 1 D Standard VISA CTL VR 6400 09 PL2 DGOLD MASTERCARD CTL MP 5600 0100 PL1 To enroll in Chargegard,you must be under age 70 in all states exceptage 71 in Al, FL, MI, MO, and OK. In CA, CT,HI, 10, IN, MA, NJ, RI, VT, WA, WI, and WY, maximum enrollment age is through age 64 (age 65 in lA, MN, OR, and TX), and coverageends at age 65 (age 66 in MN, OR, and TX: age 70 in NY). You, the Of~- applicant, are eligible for this coverage if you are employed full-time in a non-seasonal occupation. (Non- seasonalrestriction does not apply in Al, MI, NM, NY, OR,and RI.) Unemployment and disability coverages ~B begin alter 30 consecutivedays of unemploymentor disability, and are retroactive to the first day of loss. All benefits are based on the outstanding balanceas of the date of loss and will continue until your balance is paid off, you retum to work, or you reachthe limits of the master policy, $10,000, whichever occurs first. L~e benefits are available to the applicant and joint applicant (spouse, if no joint applicant). Benefits are not If I do not qualify for the Gold MasterCard, consider my application for the regular VISA. payableon purchasesor advancesmadewhile claims are being paid. Unemployment Benelil: If you become involuntarily unemployed, Chargegard will make your scheduled I APPLICANT (please print) minimum monthly payments, subject to the master policy limit. Retirement is not covered. In NY, unemploymentbenefits are not payablefor pregnancy and other medical conditions. (Coverage not available NAME AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR ON CARD in CT,MA and MN; labor disputes/strikesexcludedin AR, IL and NY.) L1le Benefit: II you or your joint applicant (spouse, if no joint applicant) die, Chargegard will pay the I I I I I I I I I outstanding account balance as 01 the date of death, not to exceedyour credit limit or $10,000. (Suicide First Name Middle Initial Last Name excludedexcept in MD and MO.) At age 65 (age 66 in IAl, Life benefits convert to Accidental Death in HI, IN andVT. (Single Lile coverageonly in MA.) Social Security I Date of Birth Disability Benelit: II you become disabled, Chargegard will make your scheduled minimum monthly payments as long as you are under a doctor's care and unable to work, up to your credit limit or $10,000, whicheveris less. Home Phone ( Chargegard Costs: The monthly premium lor Chargegardis 66t per $100 of your average daily balance on Years your account in all states exceptas follows: 28.9t in MA: 29.3t in MN; 38.8t in NY; 46.9t in NH; 48.1t in CT; 56.7t in VT: 64t in NM: 65.8t in Al; 57.6t in SC; 46.6t in TX: 57.5t in HI; 59t in WI; 60t in CA, lA, 10, IN, Address There Mos. MD, NJ, OR, RI, WA, and WY. The monthly premium will be chargedto your credit card account. Coveragewill be obtained by Rrst of America and is underwritten by American Bankers Life Assurance City, State Zip Code Company 01 Florida and American BankersInsurance Companyof Rorida, 11222 Quail Roost Drive, Miami, o Mortgage o Rent Monthly Florida 33157-6596. In NY, Life and Disability coverage is provided by Bankers American Life Assurance Company.TX Certilicate numbersAD9139CQ-0791,AC3181-CB3.50 & 3.53 R.A.and B2754EQ-l089. o Own (Free and Clear) o Other (Describe) Payment $ Previous Address o costYes, I want First America'sChargegardInsurance.I havereadand understandthe important eligibility ot and disclosureinlormation provided.Consumercredit insuranceis not requiredto obtain credit and will not (if less than 2 years at present address) be providedunlessyou sign andagreeto paythe additionalcost. Whethercredit insuranceis obtainedis not a factorin the approvalot this applicationfor credit. Employer Years or DBA There Mos. Business Applicant's Signature (Your signature constitutes acceptance of this coverage.) Birth Date Position Phone ( Previous Employer Years I CO-APPLICANT (please print) There NAME AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR ON CARD Annual Other Salary S Income $* I I I I I I I I I Source of Other Income * First Name Middle Initial Last Name (Alimony, child support, or separate maintenance payments need not be revealed if you do not Social Security I Date of Birth wish to have it as a basis for repaying this obligation.) Years Do You Have: Employer There Mos. o Che~king ( Bank) Business o Savings _ Name_ Position Phone ( Nearest Relative Phone Previous Years (not living with you) Employer There Annual Other Address Salary $ Income $* l!we hereby certify that each of the answers on this application is true and correct, and is Source of Other Income * made for the purpose of obtaining a loan or credit from the First of America Bank-Central (Bank). (Alimony,child support, or separatemaintenance l!we hereby authorize the Bank to investigate my/our credit record to the extent it deems paymentsneednot be revealedil you do not necessary and to verify my/our credit,employment and income references. I/we further authorize wish to haveit asa basisfor repayingthis obligation.) and instruct any person or consumer reporting agency to furnish the Bank any information that it may have or obtain in response to such credit inquiries. l!we further agree that this application shall become property of the Bank, whether or not it is approved. Complete the following information if different from applicant l!we agree that if this application is accepted and a card or cards are issued that any use of Home Phone ( ) the card(s) will be governed by the terms and conditions of the Bank's VISA/MasterCard Agreement and Disclosure provided before or with delivery of the card(s). l!we assume, if more Years than one iointly and severally, liability for all charges incurred in any use of the card(s). Address There City, Zip X State Applicant's Signature Date Code o Mortgage o Rent Monthly X o Own (Free and Clear) o Other (Describe) Payment S Co-Applicant's Signature Date Do You Have: o Che~king ( Bank ) o Savings Name There are costs associated with the use of this account. For a complete listing of these costs you may call us at: 7800423-3883 or write us at P.O. Box 2349 Kalamazoo MI49003 Variable Annual Balance Annual Fee Grace Period for Otber Fees Percentage Calculation None for scenic or Repayment of the Cash Advance Fee _ none Rate Method standard VISA Balance for Transaction Fee _ none Classic = Prime + 8.4% Two cycle New Purchases Late Fee - $0-$12 Gold= Prime + 6.9% Average Daily Balance $20 for Gold MasterCard 25 Days. Over Limit Fee - $0-$10 Based on (excluding new (rebated every year net starting with the billing Dishonored checks - $0-$15 Wall Street Journal Prime purchases) annual purchases date on statement Minimum Finance exceed $3,000) Charge - none Please letterfold and staple this form with the mailing address on the outside (reverse side) I - $1,000 Scholarship Winners: These are the Grand Rapids Forest Hills Central, ice hockey; 1994 recipients of the Scholar-Athlete Award, Harland Holman, Jackson, wrestling; Timothy sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance in con- Wright, Battle Creek Harper Creek, boys swim- junction with the Michigan High School Athletic ming and diving; Erik Glavich, Almont, boys Association. The program honors Michigan high basketball; Rebecca Vanderlake, Roscommon. school seniors who excel in both academics girls skiing; and Daniel Nakoneczny, Boyne City, and athletics. Farm Bureau Insurance awarded boys skiing. Third Row: Avninder Dhaliwal, 23 college scholarships of $1.000 each in 1994 Okemos, boys tennis; Shahla Bolbolan, Fre- and will increase that number to 24 next year. mont, girls track and field; Allison Schmid, War- This year's recipients - and the sport in which ren Cousino. girls soccer; Cheo Walker. East they qualified for the scholarship - are Lansing, boys track and field; Melinda Shilts. (front row, left to right): SaraBurde, Newaygo, Kalamazoo Central. girls golf; and Christopher girls basketball; Adam Borchert, Detroit Catho- Frank, Dexter, baseball. lic Central, boys soccer; Kimberly Candido,War- Not pictured are Carla Perez, St. Johns, girls ren Matt, girls swimming and diving; Kiran gymnastics; Kelly Kennedy, Taylor Light & Life Khanuja, East Lansing, girls tennis; Karly Christian, girls volleyball; and Mary Ryan Whitaker, Grand Rapids Forest Hills Northern, Hepburn, Ann Arbor Pioneer, softball. girls cross country; Eric Osborn, Port Huron Northern, boys cross country; Benton Ball, Applications for 1995 awards are available at Gladwin, boys golf; and Donald Bunnin, Iron high schools throughout Michigan. The entry Mountain, football. Second Row: Ryan Currie, deadline is Dec. 2, 1994. 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Please clip and mail to: 3855 Clay County Hvwy. ~~U~.~._ Dept TSR Ifta I Moss, Tennessee 38575 a::. Dealerships Available. 1-800-231-3695 ~ LIFE INSURANCE . ~ LIFE INSURANCE [IJ LIFE INSURANCE i , ...." G; LIFE INSURANCE I [i] LIFE INSURANCE .• ~'. Life insurance is so important, we Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent . can't mention it often enough. Without it, today to find out the best life insurance f , your family is not protected, your plan for your situation. Ask about our planning is incomplete, and your future is new lifetime benefits rider, which allows not secure. terminally ill policyholders to receive a That's why Farm Bureau Insurance portion of their life insurance proceeds before death. ! agents are talking to as many people as possible about life insurance. But don't Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company wait to be asked. of Michigan ... protecting Michigan families since 1951. MAKING YOUR FUTURE MORE PREDICTABLE ••_@ __ FARM BUREAU MUTUAL FARM BUREAU • FARM INSVRANCE BUREAU LIFE • FARM BUREAU G£NERAl • FB ANNUITY .. Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine P.O. Box 30960 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy. Lansing, MI 48909