Michigan Farm Bureau Buyer's Service Program Now I f s Guaranteed! What is the Buyer's Service? The Michigan Farm Bureau Buyer's Service is a program designed to help save you hundreds of dollars on major purchases that you may make in the coming years. Farm Bureau has Most major brands available at discounts up to contracted with The Family Saver Co. to pro- 60%! vide this service. Appliances Photography equipment Freezers Lawn and garden equipment The Family Saver can be your purchasing agen- Dishwashers Power tools cy by eliminating much of the middleman's Washers and dryers Lamps high mark-up and pass these savings on to you. Refrigerators Fireplaces Ranges Wood furnaces No pressure to buy, only our help in saving Small appliances Luggage you money. Microwave ovens Watches Musical equipment Electronic Equipment Stereos Lawn furniture How can we Scanners Televisions Sporting Goods Archery equipment Hunting equipment Miscellaneous do this? Furniture Carpeting Pool and game tables Rods and reels Box springs and mattresses Very simple. We order merchandise direct from the factory or distributor and ship it All merchandise is brand new and carries full factory directly to you or to a warehouse near where warranties with nationwide local service. you live. We do not have the high cost of in- ventory, or large warehouse and showrooms, sales commissions, etc. As your purchasing agent to help you save money, we also have Michigan Farm Bureau Buyer's Service Enrollment Form some retailers who are interested in increasing their volume and thus giving them larger buy- Please complete and mail along with your check or ing discounts by brokering their product money order in the amount of $25.00 to: through our great purchasing power. Michigan Farm Bureau Member Service Department P.O. Box 30960 Lansing, Ml 48909 What does it cost? Date The Buyer's Service, at a cost of only $25 for the first year and $15 thereafter annually, allows you Membership Number to get unlimited pricing information via a toll free number. This program compares favorably Farm Bureau Membership Name with ones costing up to $795 annually. (as shown on membership card) Satisfaction is Address Guaranteed! City Use the Family Saver for one full year. If at the State and Zip end of the year you find you could not save at least $25.00 in quick quotes, we will refund your Telephone No. ( 1 $25.00 fee! Amount Enclosed $ (check or moneii order) FEBRUARY 1984 FARM NEWS VOL. 63 NO.2 THE COVER A publication After receiving the Distin- guished Service to Agriculture of the award, Dr. Sylvan Wittwer ad- Michigan dressed the general session at the AFBF annual meeting. Farm Bureau Photo by Connie Turbin In this issue: FB Campaign '84 to Increase Political Involvement "FB Campaign '84," a program to make FB members among the nation's most effective political forces in the 1984 elections, was announced at the AFBF annual meeting, Jan. 8-12. Other speeches and events are also highlighted. 10 Pioneering Research for Agriculture's Future Dr. Sylvan Wittwer recently added AFBF's Distinguished Service to Agriculture award to his list of accomplishments and honors. Although retired as director of the MSU Ag Experiment Station, he continues his research into agriculture in the year 2000. 13 Building Leaders for Agriculture Farm wife, mother, career woman, spokesperson for agriculture - Faye Adam blends these roles together with organizational skills and family support. 14 COLUMNS Rural Route - page 4 Rural Exchange - page 21 Country Ledger - page 5 Farm Bureau Market Place - page 22 Legislative Review - page 6 Discussion Topic - page 23 Front and Center - page 16 Agrinomic Update - page 26 Michigan Farm l'Iews RURAL L1VII'IG (ISSI'I 0026,2161): MIchigan Farm News Rural LivIng is published monthly. on the first day. by the Michigan Farm Bu- reau Information and Public Relations Division. Publication and editorial offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Mich. 48909. Post Office Box 30960: telephone. Lansing 517-323-7000. Extension 508. SUBSCRIPTIOI'I PRICE: $1.50 per year to members. included In annual dues. $3.00 per year non-members in Michigan. $5.00 per year non-members out of state. Publication No. 345040. Established Jan. 13. 1923 as MIchIgan Farm News. name changed to MichIgan Farm News Rural LivIng Dec. I. 1981. Third-class postage paid at Lansing. Michigan and at additional mailing ofrlces. EDITORIAL: Connie Turbin. Editor; Mar- cia Dltchle. Associate Editor and Business Manager: Donna Wilber. Contributing Editor; Cathy J. ~Irvan. Associate Editor. OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau: President. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia; Vice President. Jack Laurie. Cass City; Administrative Director. Robert Braden. Lansing; Treasurer and Chid Financial Of- ricer. Max D. Dean; Secretary. William S. Wilkinson. DIRECTORS: District I. Arthur Bailey. Schoolcraft; District 2. Lowell Eisenmann. Blissfield; District 3. James Sayre. Belleville: District 4. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia; District 5. Albert Cook. Mason; District 6. Jack Laurie. Cass City; District 7. Robert Rider. Hart; District 8. Lyle LeCronler. Freeland; District 9. Donald Nugent. Frankfort; District 10. Margaret ~artes. West Branch; District II. Bernard Doll. Darter. DIREC- TORS AT LARGE: Dave Conklin. Corunna; Michael Pridgeon. Montgomery; Wayne Wood. Marlette. FARM BUREAU WOMEI'I: Faye Adam. Snover. FARM BUREAU YOUI'IG FARMERS: Mark Smuts. Charlotte. POSTMASTER: In using rorm 3579. mail to: MIChIgan Farm News Rural LivIng. P.O. Box J0960. 7373 West Saginaw tllghway. Lansing. Mich. 48909. Involvement Elton Smith receives a, congratulatory jacket • for achieving member- .....And More ship goal from AFBF President Delano. to those to whom "give us this year. He is a farmer - not a pro- "Involvement and more in '84" was the theme of the day our daily bre'acf'."is aofervent fessional salesman - and his American Farm Bureau Federa- plea, we should consider more target market each membership tion annual meeting this year. often the words, "farm families campaign are farmers; out of We all know what the "involve- united for the purpose of those] 11 families he enrolled ment" means - for nearly 65 analyzing problems and for- in 1983, only three were non- years, it has been the involve- mulating action." farmers. That's the "involve- ment of farmers, using Farm We are currently involved in ment and more" that FB needs! Bureau as a problem-solving our annual membership cam- Does he have a special strate- paign to gain the lifeblood that gy? Yes - but a relatively sim- tool, that has made it the strongest farm organization in Farm Bureau must have to re- ple one. First, he contacts every the world. main strong and effective. In farmer who is not a Farm The "and more," I think, their contacts with prospects, Bureau member. Then, "I tell means a rededication by mem- volunteer membership workers them why I am a member and bers to the basic principles of and affiliate company personnel what Farm Bureau has done." our organization. We have a use FB's economic services as a You can be sure that this suc- statement of purpose that major selling point and this is cessful volunteer membership hasn't changed since it was understandable. People do want worker tells his prospects that drafted by Farm Bureau's some economic advantages by Farm Bureau is committed to pioneer builders: belonging to an organization. represent farmers, speaking for "Farm Bureau is a free, in- Certainly, our economic ser- them with strength and in- dependent, non-government, vices are an important reason fluence in the legislative, social, voluntary organization of farm for joining Farm Bureau. I'm educational and economic and ranch families united for proud of the responsiveness of arenas. I'm sure he tells them the purpose of analyzing their our organization and its af- that through Farm Bureau, they problems and formulating ac- filiates in developing services to have the opportunity for active, tion to achieve education im- meet the needs of members and meaningful involvement in de- provement, economic oppor- I salute those affiliate company veloping and executing the poli- tunity, and social advancement personnel, as well as our volun- cies of their county, state and and, thereby, to promote the teers, whose efforts have helped national organizations. national well-being .... " MFB reach its all-time member- The economic benefits of be- Perhaps because that state- ship high. longing may be part of his ment of purpose has been We must be on guard, how- "sales pitch," but put into prop- around so long, we've devel- ever, against siphoning off the er perspective to the real rea- oped the same kind of casual- emphasis on, or losing touch son for Farm Bureau's exis- ness we're guilty of when we with, the purpose of our general tence. sing the national anthem or farm organization. That key Have you told a farmer lately recite the Lord's Prayer, reason for belonging to Farm what Farm Bureau really is? Try repeating the words time and Bureau must never become it! As that Wisconsin .farmer has again without giving much secondary! proven - it works! thought to their true meaning. Those of you who receive the Just as we need to really think AFBF Farm Bureau News recent- about how it must have felt to ly read about a Wisconsin FB see our flag there after a member who, in the past five perilous night and try to relate years, has added over 500 new families to the FB membership President rolls, ] ]] of those this past Michigan Farm Bureau 4 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 COUNTRY LEDGER Agriculture 1984-2000 A.D. The Future is Upon Us By Connie Turbin "a wonderful opportunity for power as a united minority to the story, the voice, of agricul- influence those who establish Trellised vine crops grow ture to be heard. No longer are food and agricultural policy. above a second crop of soy- these the technologies of That was the challenge to Farm beans, wild hyacinth and science fiction: the future is Bureau members made by AFBF gopher grass are cultivated for upon us." President Robert Delano and possible use as biofuel, and In the vision of men and echoed by Wittwer. planters suspended from con- women like Dr. Wittwer, hunger "When I was a young boy veyers move through nutrient in the world can be eliminated. growing up on a farm in Utah," spray chambers where exposed That vision is taking root in the said Wittwer, "I held two illu- roots are nourished ... all in a minds of those who have sions, rather delusions. The controlled atmosphere green- glimpsed a possible future for first was all that was worthwhile house environment of the Lands agriculture as demonstrated in had already been discovered. Exhibit at the EPCOTCenter in the controlled atmosphere en- The second was that there was Orlando, Florida. vironment of the exhibit. But it no way to influence peoples, na- These and other wonders of a is as delicate and vulnerable as tions or governments." Through future world agriculture have the exposed root system re- his career as educator and re- been viewed by over 11 million moved from the controlled en- searcher, said Wittwer, he had people from our nation and vironment of such an exhibit or witnessed and experienced the around the world. the research laboratory. excitement of discovery. World "This experimental environ- The vision must be supported travels and exposure to those ment," the tour guide tells by people and governments to who direct policy have con- visitors, "could be common- take research technologies from vinced him that it is necessary place in the agriculture of the these embryonic beginnings to reach leaders in government year 2000. Food crops may be and put it in the hands of men and society with information grown in the previously un- and women engaged in produc- about agriculture's needs and arable lands of our earth tion agriculture. concerns. through the applied use of It will take the committed in- Agricultural programs ... re- these technologies .." volvement of farm people to search ... public policy: the The guide reminds us too that press for the monies to fund the challenge of 1984. It is the the now bountiful Great Plains research and extension pro- challenge to be fully involved in of the Midwest were once con- grams at our land grant univer- the .debate of the new omnibus sidered too harsh for fruitful sities. farm bill and to knowledgeably farming, beset by driving wind Involvement and more - exercise the power of the united storms, bitter winters and crop farm people can wield their minority at the ballot box. destroying insects. Over a cen- tury of research and progress in the hands of hardworking, com- mitted farm families has transformed this land into the most abundant and provident on the earth. As we pass out of the exhibit, the guide urges each of us to "listen to the land," the land that feeds the peoples of the world. In the words of Sylvan Witt- wer, agricultural researcher, educator and recipient of the AFBF Distinguished Service to Agriculture award, the exhibit is RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1.984 5 EDB Ban Threatened - AFBF has urged EPA Director William Ruckelshaus to use great caution on any decision to Ag Leaders Visit Reagan - ban the agricultural use of the Leaders of 18 farm organiza- pesticide ethylene dibromide Reapportionment - The tions, including AFBF President (EDB).AFBF President Delano 1983 session closed with Robert Delano, met with Presi- reminded EPA that the use of passage of a compromise re- dent Reagan and USDASecre- EDB as a fum igant for crops has apportionment plan which will tary John Block in early Janu- long been accepted and in some change the House and Senate ary to discuss long range policy cases required by government district boundary lines and planning for agriculture, focus- as a safeguard for storage and cause confusion once again at ing on the 1985 farm bill. export for farm commodities. the polls. The old plan kept Delano reported that the ma- He said that precipitous action counties intact for the most jor interest of the farm leaders against the use of EDB in grain part. The new plan puts many was ag exports and access to and citrus fumigation would counties into two or more world markets, with special con- cost farmers and consumers districts. cerns regarding Japan, the many millions of dollars in lost The effect is that the House European Community and Third crops and higher food prices. If will continue to be controlled by World countries. While no such action is forthcoming, the the Democrats about the same specific solutions to export federal government should be as the present 63-47 split. It is problems were presented, Block prepared to indemnify all parties expected there will be about 12 indicated blended credit was suffering economic losses it is "swing seats," four Republican available to counter some prob- certain to cause, he said. and eight Democrat. lems, such as subsidies by In the Senate, the split should other countries. be about even, 18-18 with two Ag Conference Salutes Legislators The annual Michigan Agricul- speakers were used to focus the tural Conference legislative din- guests' attention on the fact ner was held Jan. 11 at MSUto that "Agriculture is Michigan's welcome legislators on their Basic Industry." The nearly first day of the 1984 session, 1,000 farmers, agribusiness pay them tribute for their past representatives, legislators, recognition of the industry's state agency and university per- needs, and remind them of sonnel were greeted by Gov. needs yet to be addressed. James Blanchard, who told the An all-Michigan dinner, "ag crowd that agriculture would be bags" filled with state produced blended together with all other former !'IDADirector Dean Frid- commodities, and a line-up of industries in cooperative efforts geon (left) received an award for to improve the state's economy. his contributions to agriculture In his welcome to the crowd, from the farm Credit Service. MSUvice president for ad- Presenting it was George House of the Kalamazoo FCA. ministration and public affairs Jack Breslin announced that the ground-breaking for the Rep. Don Koivisto of the new Plant and Soil Science 110th District received the Ag Building would be scheduled for Conference 1984 recognition Jan. 31. He also expressed ap- award for "excellence in leader- preciation to Sen. Mitch Irwin, ship as chairman of the House Rep. Lewis Dodak and former Agriculture and Forestry Com- MDA Director Dean Pridgeon for mittee." Dean Pridgeon was Fresident J. W. Irwin (right) pre- their efforts in regaining budget honored with the Farm Credit sented Rep. Don Koivisto with the 1984 Ag Conference recogni- for the MSU animal health Service's commemorative award tion award. diagnostic lab. for his contributions to agricul- ture. 6 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 swing districts. The new plan has an 8% population deviation compared to the present 16%. The new plan will be used for the 1984 House elections and will apply to the Senate in the 1986 election .. Single Business Tax - Passage of this bill (H.B. 5160) grants additional relief (about 90%) to some 40,000 small and low profit businesses. Many would be agriculture related businesses. Legislation changing farm truck plate requirements (D.B. 4581) was Welfare-Workfare - S.B. recently signed into law by Gov. Blanchard as P.A. 186 of 1983. The bill 448, which contains a combina- signing ceremony in the governor's office was attended by Rep. Sid tion of welfare and "workfare," Ouwinga. MFBSenior Legislative Counsel Robert E. Smith. Rep. Carl was passed in December before Gnodtke. Rep. Dick Allen (primary sponsor). Rep. Robert Bender. MFB the Legislature adjourned for Legislative Counsel Ron Nelson. Rep. Lou Dodak and Rep. Keith Muxlow. Douse members in attendance were co. sponsors of the bill which pro- the year. Able-bodied welfare vides for more liberalized use of the special farm truck plate. recipients will be required to work or lose benefits for up to three months. The new law also P.A. 186 of 198.3, as signed trucks on a limited basis. The includes the Michigan Oppor- by Gov. Blanchard, provides for legislation also liberalizes the tunity and Skills Training expanded use of the special $15 use of the plate on a truck for (MOST)program; an Operation farm license plate. The law transporting fertilizer, seed and Self-Reliance program; a private states that "the owner of a spray material from the farm to employer incentive plan; AFDC truck, truck tractor, or road the field. Prior to P.A. 186, this heating shut-off protection and tractor, which is used exclusive- use was not permitted. funds for paying electric bills ly for the purpose of gratuitous- The special $15 plate is only for heating purposes; a home ly transporting farm crops be- available from the Michigan weatherization program; and tween the field where produced Department of State, Special funding to begin a conservation and place of storage, or used to Registration Unit, 7064 Crowner corp program. transport fertilizer, seed, or Drive, Lansing, Mich. 48918. spray material from the farm Applications for the $15 permit location to the field may obtain may be obtained from the Livestock Dealer Licensing a special registration. The fee above address or from the MFB - Legislation will be introduced for each special registration Public Affairs Division, P.O. Box to update this act and include shall be $15. The vehicle shall .30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. some provisions which are pres- be insured in the manner speci- In addition, P.A. 186 allows a ently in the rules. The law ap- fied for motor vehicles." regular farm plate to be pur- plies to livestock dealers, The $15 plate was previously chased on a quarterly rather brokers or agents, truckers, available but issued only to than the six month or annual auction markets, auctioneers, vehicles "designed and used basis. A farmer may purchase a buying stations, collection specifically for ag purposes." plate for three or more months points and weightmasters. It is The use of the word "designed" depending on the use of the expected that fees and bonding was very restrictive. truck in the farm operation. The requirements will be increased. Rep. Dick Allen, author of rate remains the same at 74 Certain flagrant and willful H.B. 4581, and the co-sponsors cents per hundred. The regular violations will become felonies, have provided legislation to farm plate may be purchased such as embezzlement of funds benefit many farms which use through any Secretary of State from the Producer Proceeds Ac- branch office. count; manipulation of weights; (continued on page 28) RURAL LIVING, FeBRUARY 1984 7 BLACK NIGHTSHADE: WHAT YOU © 1983 Ciba-Geigy Corp., Ag. Div., Box 18300, Greensboro, NC 27419 'Amiben is a registered trademark for Union Carbide's chloramben herbicide. "Lorox is a registered trademark of E.I. duPont de Nemours and Company for linuron herbicide. NEED TO KNOW TO CONTROLII If you grow beans, you know about the Start with a surface application of Dual. black nightshade problem. There's no ques- This will do two things. It concentrates the tion this tough annual broadleaf can be seri- chemical so it will last longer than if you in- _ ous. But there is an effective program using corporate. And it puts the Dual where it can ~ Dual@that will control it. We'd like to tell you intercept the susceptible shoot. (Black night- ~ about it. First, let's look at shade seeds germinate in _\..- the threat. the top V2" or so of the soil.) ~ Black nightshade is Next, use the highest feared because the ber- label rate for your soil. ries, stems and leaves from ... ;: ': .':' _ Again, this puts down more ~ ~~I~~i~~W r~~~~~~ cs~~~~~ ~\;~zf!i!!~;;!~~~!!~K~%r#:W~,,/~~~'j!~f;'!1r~;\\f ~~~:Iy~~~t s~~~ ~~S~pl~~g:~. .-.'.. and augers with a sticky, . -. _ "'" ."" . ,."~., . ,- ':jw; close to planting as possi- I glue-like mess. The berry ~ I~~' /II ~ ~-.gll ,~,.." II ble. This timing will extend - juice not only stains the beans but also the control period to catch later germinating - causes trash and weeds to stick to them. seeds. t..= To make matters worse, the plant is dif- Second, Infested Areas. Seriously in- ,.-- ficult to control. The seeds germinate all tested areas require stronger treatment. A summer long, so one herbicide application at tank mix of Dual with Amiben* is good for - planting may not suppress plants later in the heavy soils. For light soils, use Dual and season. And because black nightshade can Lorox.** In either mix, use the highest rates ~ even survive under the canopy, you can't and surface apply. depend on shading to stop it. Any break in Third, Extreme Cases. For the heaviest ~ the canopy can result in full-grown plants infestations, you may have to cultivate and emerging. finish up the program with a postemergent That's the problem. To control it, we'd herbicide labeled for black nightshade. == advise a total program using Dual. Fourth, Rotate to Corn. Black night- First, Prevention. To stop black night- shade is easier to control in corn because shade before it gets started you'll you can use AAtrex.@So to clean up a stub- need the longest possible control. born case, rotate your beans to corn and tank mix Dual with AAtrex. Your best bet is to prevent black night- shade from becoming established in your fields~ And Dual is the best way to do it. PH Campaign '84 to Increase Political Involvement Four organizational goals, goal will involve members con- farm program, and to assure a which will require "intensive tacting and working on registra- continuing economic recovery, member involvement" during tion and get-out-the-vote cam- Delano said. 1984, were announced by Presi- paigns with allied groups "Spending is the issue. This dent Robert B. Delano during friendly to FB philosophy. fall's elections hold the key to his address to members at the "While farmers and ranchers the future spending attitudes of AFBF annual meeting in Orlan- are a minority group, well- state legislatures and of the do, Florida, Jan. 9: organized, knowledgeable mi- Congress," he said. .FB will become agriculture's norities, working with allies, "Spending has also become a most effective voice for foreign can wield influence far out of farm program issue. It has been trade expansion. keeping with size," Delano said. increasingly obvious that cur- • FB will lay the groundwork "There are close to nine million rent farm programs are com- for passage of a sound, long- votes within Farm Bureau's di- pletely out of step with a sound term 1985 farm program law. economic recovery and that • FB members, joined by fiscal they reduce our effectiveness in conservatives everywhere, will ") am talking about seeking cuts in other federal do more than any other group political power gener- spending. to get Congress back on the ated by Farm Bureau "Without exception, rigid, track to sound economic recov- high-level price support pro- ery through fiscal and regula- and carefully directed grams have lowered potential tory reform. at specific goals. II net farm income by causing us • FB members will be among to produce more and to sell less the nation's most effective po- - when we need to do just the litical forces in the coming fall rect membership and at least opposite - to produce less and elections. another nine million votes sell more," he said. Delano said a major key to available to us among friends of "This is a year of decision for achievement of the first three agriculture." farmers and ranchers. We face a goals will be "FB Campaign '84" The AFBF president called for need for unity in shaping a new - a new national project in all county FBs throughout the farm program to replace cur- member political involvement. nation to immediately appoint rent law, which expires with the "I am talking about political an "FB Campaign '84" commit- 1985 crop year. As never be- power generated by Farm Bu- tee to begin work by conduct- fore, we need to lay aside per- reau and carefully directed at ing a precinct-by-precinct ex- sonal bias and self-serving com- specific goals that include amination to see that FB mem- modity interests to work responsible legislatures and a bers are registered to vote. together in constructing a responsible Congress, a strong The kind of candidates mem- sound, long-term farm program. country and a profitable agri- bers and allies will support in "In the months ahead, Farm culture within it," he said. the fall elections, he said, will Bureau will take the lead in "'FB Campaign '84' will begin be those fiscal conservatives of helping the agricultural com- soon with a registration check both parties who will work for munity agree on basic objec- of every Farm Bureau member tax cuts - not tax increases, tives for farm legislation and eligible to vote. It is our inten- candidates who believe farm decide the proper role of tion that the project end in management decisions should government in dealing with November with the election of be made on the farm - not in private enterprise farming." candidates measured against Congress, and those who sup- The farm leader said the kind yardsticks of FB policy." port trade expansion rather of farm program that is needed Delano said the election year than protectionist policies. "must move us into world goals include increasing the Election of these kinds of can- markets rather than price us number of registered. FB mem- didates will be important to out of them." High U.S. support bers by 840,000 and making FB's efforts to assure that Con- (continued on page 29) sure that 84% of all eligible FB gress writes a sound, long-term members vote. A secondary 10 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 Block Vows to Increase Ag Exports agriculture and preparation of a He urged FB delegates to use list of food and agriculture their power as they had never policy options. used it before to answer that Concerning future farm pro- question. He cited differences grams, Block said public de- between price and production mand will force reduced costs of restrictions in peanuts and soy- government programs. Guiding beans to exemplify the detri- factors will be that we must be mental effects of production competitive in world markets, or controls on market conditions. others will get the business. "We Price support loan rates need simply cannot afford to lose our flexibility so they will not de- competitive edge. stroy markets, Block said, add- USDA SECRETARY JOUN BLOCK "We must erase the term of ing that if permanent policies dependence on government' to reduce agricultural produc- Calling "a healthy, prosper- from our vocabulary," Block tion in this country were ad- ous agriculture our best line of said. The role of government is vanced, it would be detrimental defense in the world," USDA not to establish prices, but to to our future. Secretary John Block vowed maintain a climate for their "Exports are our life blood," that he will not give up in his establishment. An important Block said, noting that com- determination to expand U.S. consideration for the 1985 farm modities from one-third of our agricultural exports. program is that "producer producing acreage depend on Addressing farmers at the benefits should not disrupt exports for a market. AFBF annual meeting, Block resource allocation or distort Block, a former president of said he will continue to knock market signals,"he said. the Knox County, Illinois, Farm on the door to open markets "Thriving agriculture means Bureau, was introduced by AFBF with Japan and other countries. jobs for our people and agricul- President Robert Delano, who Other needs cited included tural industry serving the world called him "not only a friend of assessment of food and food means power for America." Farm Bureau on the president's policy needs around the world, Block asked if government in- cabinet, but one of our own." establishment of dialogues with duced acreage reduction is in interested parties outside the best interest of agriculture. 1984 to be 'Young Farmer Year' AFBF has declared 1984 as dairy farmers from Quincy in "Young Farmer Year," and in Branch County, competed with his annual address President young farm couples from 37 Robert Delano invited all 6,400 states for the Distinguished young farmers who serve on Young Farmer title. Although county, state and national com- they did not wIn the national ti- mittees to "share their tle, they're still proud of their knowledge and enthusiasm." state title and feel honored to Young farmers are becoming have been selected. more interested in legislative Paul Jefts, a dairy farmer issues and political action pro- from Big Rapids in Mecosta Michigan's Paul Jefts (right) was grams, he encouraged them to County, made it to the finals of a finalist in the national Discus- continue. the national Discussion Meet. sion Meet. De's shown making a He said participation in dis- As a runner-up in the contest, point during the quarter-finals. cussion meets, leader confer- he feels he has tremendously ences, marketing seminars and benefited from the experience. Young farmers between the awards programs is increasing. He made several good points ages of 17 and 31 can learn Michigan Farm Bureau was during the semi-finals while more about personal growth well represented in national discussing the farm credit and leadership opportunities in Young Farmer contests. situation, and during the finals, the MFBYoung Farmer program Glenn & Suzanne Preston, where the topic was "Subsidies at the upcoming leader confer- - Ammunition for Trade War?" ence in Lansing, Feb. 29-Mar. 2. RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 11 No Easy Trade Barriers Ourt u.s. Farmers Answer for American farmers are losing $350 million to nearly $1 billion more than $2.5 billion a year over the next few years, Dam Ag Problems because of trade barriers said. The EC's Common Agricul- created by Japan and the Euro- tural Policy, with its export sub- U.S. agriculture's overriding pean Community, according to sidies, "has become the source concern is the rising budget Kenneth Dam, deputy secretary of the most serious distortion deficits that have strengthened of state, who spoke at the AFBF of agricultural trade in the the dollar and made U.S. com- annual meeting. world," he said. modities "extraordinarily expen- Japan is the largest single ex- While reluctant to force a con- sive" for foreign customers, ac- port market for U.S. farm prod- frontation, the U.S. has options cording to House Majority Whip ucts, purchasing nearly $7 available to protect agricultural Thomas Foley. billion last year. However, trade interests, such as the re- Speaking at the AFBF annual eliminating quota restrictions cent subsidized export credit ar- meeting, Foley said, "That is on beef and citrus alone would rangements to compete directly the first order of business for increase annual sales of those with EC subsidized farm ex- American agriculture, because commodities from their current ports, he said. no segment of our economy is more adversely affected by high interest rates and the over- Michigan Comes Dome a Winner! valued dollar than agriculture." For other problems plaguing MFB President Elton R. Smith MFB received gold stars for FB agriculture there are similarly not only assisted in passing out Women, membership, Young no easy answers, Foley said. stars to state FBs during the an- Farmers, marketing, national af- Future farm programs will be nual AFBF awards program - fairs, policy development, infor- judged on whether they are he also brought several home. mation and agriculture in the "cost-effective, working for the By earning eight gold and classrooms, and silver stars for American farmer and for the four silver stars, Michigan commodity activities, local af- American people and tax- ranked third in the nation for fairs, political education and payers," he said. program achievement. rural health. Delegates Adopt Compromise Farm Bill Policy Delegates to the AFBF annual "The primary objectives of a duction" that exceed demand. meeting who supported moving market-oriented farm policy Instead prices should be in ac- U.S. agriculture to a free market should be to: allow farmers to cord with "market-clearing system and those who sought take maximum advantage of levels," they said. greater supply management by market opportunities at home Currently, loan levels are set government finally adopted a and abroad without government by Congress for several years compromise policy on farm pro- interference, encourage needed into the future, without regard grams. Spirited discussion be- adjustments in resource use to prevailing market conditions. tween the two factions preceded and reduce the need for future As a result, many in agriculture the nearly unanimous vote on government intervention." believe that U.S. loan levels act policy which AFBF President The chief concern expressed as a floor price that allows Delano says he expects all in the organization's 1984 foreign competitors to undercut segments in FB will support. policy is U.S. agriculture's world prices for U.S. commodities. While the adopted policy does competitiveness. The voting In adopting another provision call for future farm programs to delegates said that government aimed at cutting surpluses, the rely on less government so loan levels for major export delegate body favored ending American farmers can better commodities should "facilitate the government's farmer-owned compete in world markets, the orderly marketing and price grain reserve program, replac- previous position to eliminate com petitiveness." ing it with price support loans target prices for wheat, feed To achieve that, they said to wheat and feed grain pro- grains, cotton and rice was loan levels should be linked to ducers, to be made available changed to endorsement of the the three to five year average without interest for a nine- target price concept that is domestic price, with annual ad- month period. presently part of the federal justments of no more than 100;0 In line with the delegates' farm program. either way. Loan levels "should (continued on page 29) not provide incentives for pro- I 12 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 19841 DR. SYLVAN WITTWER Pioneering Research for Agriculture's Future ture is a familiar individual, a brilliant researcher figure to FBll1em- and, at the same time, one of bers throughout the the best communicators I have state. During his ever known. years of service as "At MSU,Dr. Wittwer has director of MSU's trained many agricultural re- Agricultural Experi- searchers from foreign coun- ment Station, he tries. He has spent short and was a favorite extended periods in foreign speaker at many FB lands helping develop agricul- events. When his ture research systems. Truly, reputation as a his knowledge, his belief in By Donna Wilber dynamic knowledgeable agricultural research, and his spokesperson for agriculture ability to communicate the wis- During the past 30 years, Dr. spread to national and interna- dom of that research has had a Sylvan Wittwer has earned so tional circles, MFB members felt positive effect on the food sup- many honors - from the a sort of "local boy makes ply of this world." "Golden Pickle" to distinguished good" pride in Dr. Wittwer. Wittwer was cited by AFBF for faculty with numerous recogni- So, when Dr. Wittwer accepted pioneering the use of radioiso- tion awards in between - that his award in that huge conven- topes in the study of plant it takes a full, single-spaced tion civic center in Orlando, it growth, and improved growing, sheet just to list them all. So, was hard to tell who was the storage and shipment methods what's one more award, even if proudest - his Michigan fans, of agricultural production. it does come from the nation's his wife of 45 years, Maurine, or In 1976, Dr. Wittwer was the largest farm organization? himself. It was evident that it recipient of MFB's Distinguished Dr. Wittwer collected that was not just another award to Service to Agriculture award for "one more award" in Orlando, Dr. Wittwer. "Ieadership in science to aid Florida, on Jan. 10. It was the "It is a very important honor American agriculture and the American Farm Bureau Federa- and I'm extremely grateful to people of the world." tion's highest honor, the Distin- the Michigan Farm Bureau for Wittwer began his career at guished Service to Agriculture nominating me," he said. MSUin 1946 as an assistant award, presented at the organi- "I've tried during the 40 years professor of horticulture. He zation's annual meeting by of my professional career to do was named director of the Ag President Robert Delano. the very best I could in terms of Experiment Station in 1965, Among the thousands of farm- teaching and research. There's serving in that position until his ers who witnessed the presenta- nothing, however, I feel that so-called "retirement" in 1983 tion was an enthusiastic delega- would warrant this recognition." to become director emeritus. tion of FB members from Michi- Dr. Wittwer gives his wife When Dr. Wittwer retired as gan, who could claim they knew much of the credit for his many director of the Ag Experiment this dignitary - many of them accomplishments, "none of Station in June of 1983, it was on a first-name basis. which would have been possible by no means a termination of The 1984 recipient of AFBF's without her strong support and his professional activities. Cur- award for "distinguished and understanding." rently he is involved in many meritorious" service to agricul- In his letter of nomination to activities regarding resources AFBF, MFB President Elton R. (continued on page .30) Smith called Dr. Wittwer a "rare RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 13 Building Leaders for Agriculture By Marcia Ditchie The full power that we, as farm women in unity, can exercise in MFBWomen's Committee Chairperson Faye Adam and AFBF President Robert Delano agree that the role of women in agriculture continues to the public opinion and legislative change. Delano has called on Farm Bureau Women to support the "FB arenas, in the market place and Campaign '84" political involvement program (see page 10). in our own organization, is Just waiting to be tapped. This powerful statement would, to the casual observer, wheat and alfalfa, Wayne is the going to tear it out, but he still likely be attributed to a born- third generation to operate the didn't let me forget it. and-raised-on-a-farm female, family farm in Lamotte Town- "It was a big change for me newly-awakened to the oppor- .ship. They have three children, from the lifestyle I was used to, tunities and challenges afforded Dawn, a dental hygienist; Alan, but I wouldn't trade it for the to the liberated woman of the an MSUfreshman majoring in world now. I really like the role 1980s. animal science; and Linda, a I'm playing," Faye said. Not so! The words are articu- junior in high school. lated by a former Detroiter who Support System Vital Her transition from city girl to is leading a transition in Farm farm wife created some special Juggling the demands of be- Bureau history just as smoothly challenges, but it's the humor- ing a wife, mother, farmer, as she made the transition from ous experiences she remembers. spokesperson for agriculture "city girl" to a key spokesper- "I can well remember the first and having another career son for Michigan agriculture time my husband sent me to the besides, takes a special type of and Farm Bureau. elevator. This was before I be- person and also requires sup- They're the words of Faye came very involved in the farm port and understanding from Adam, recently re-elected chair- operation and at that particular family members. person of the MFB Women's time, we were getting feed "Number one, you need the Committee, who juggles the ground at the elevator for our support of your husband and demands of being a full-time livestock," Faye said. "He gave family and without this, I wife, farm partner and mother, me explicit instructions on what wouldn't be able to begin to do part-time dental assistant, com- to do and what to get, but he all of the things that are impor- munity and Farm Bureau leader failed to tell me about the pick- tant to me," Faye said. - all with unruffled efficiency up going up in the air. All of a "I find myself having to be and enthusiasm. And the transi- sudden I found myself up in the very organized and I have to set tion she is leading is the in- air and didn't know what to do." some priorities and goals for tegration of FB Women into the Faye also recalls her first field total organization, myself in life. The more involv- work assignment on the tractor. ed I've become in Farm Bureau, "On my second round in the I've had to drop some other From City Girl to Farm Wife field, I got too close to a barbed things that were of lesser im- Faye and her husband, Wayne, wire fence and wound it around portance to me. My husband operate a 320-acre farm near the disc. One point in my favor, and I both feel that you get out Snover in Sanilac County, spe- however, was that Wayne was of an organization what you put cializing in livestock, corn, into it." 14 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 The Challenges of Change "The number of women who tion. They need to be encour- For the past few years, the serve as voting delegates at the aged to appoint women to state Women's Committee has state annual meeting has in- various county committees emphasized that FB Women are creased in recent years, there within Farm Bureau other than an integral part of the organiza- are more women serving on just the Women's Committee. tion. Their statement, according county boards of directors and As county boards of directors to Faye, plus her own strong as county presidents. Also, set objectives for their commit- personal feelings, reflect the there are more women interest- tees, I would like to see them changing role of women in agri- ed in serving on commodity give the Women's Committees culture since the women's pro- committees and there are some challenges," she said. gram was initiated in 1950. women who do an excellent job "Women will have to be more "We have seen fuller partner- on the state policy development assertive than they have been ships emerge from this change and AgriPac committees." in the past in letting their coun- - in marriages, in farm busi- One person alone, though, ty boards know what they would nesses, in our organization and cannot accomplish this ex- like to be involved in. It's a two- in our community activities. As tremely important objective, way street and I feel very her role has expanded in all and Faye views it as a responsi- strongly that if women are truly these facets of her life, the farm bility of all FB Women. going to be an integral part of woman of today is accepting "If this objective is going to the total Farm Bureau organiza- responsibilities of leadership be accom plished, women are tion, it has to start at the roles in Farm Bureau on both going to have to prove them- grassroots level. the county and state levels," selves and work together; it's a "We cannot afford to sit back she said. process of education. County and let people with little or no "The structure of our organi- boards of directors have to ac- knowledge of agriculture make zation is unique in that it is cept the responsibility to pro- decisions which will affect our tailor-made for the involvement vide opportunities for women to industry," she said. of women. It gives them a vehi- be a part of the total organiza- cle through which they can grow and be involved in mean- ingful activities without sacrific- ing their commitment to their personal lives." FB Women Accept Challenge She has witnessed many changes that indicate women have accepted the challenge of becoming an integral part of the total FB organization. Since 1973, teams of FB Women have been making pre- sentations to civic groups and others through the Speakers' Bureau. An "Ag in the Class- room" program launched a few years ago takes the story of agriculture directly to school Faye Adam (right) and Diane Wood children. That program won a were one of the original Speakers' gold star at the recent AFBF an- Bureau teams. Last fall AFBF filmed their "Bread and Milk" nual meeting. presentation at a Marlette elemen- "You will also find more tary school. The film crew also women telling agriculture's visited Adam's farm (above) where story in their everyday lives they interviewed Faye and her hus- band, Wayne. The footage is in- through their involvement in cluded in a new 23-minute film, Farm Bureau, the non-farm "The Dimensions of Farm Bureau." organizations and civic groups they belong. to," she said. She believes women are also becoming more interested in holding leadership positions. RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 15 FRONT & CENTER Agra Land's board of directors, at its first meeting on Jan. 6-1, elected Joe O'Uenley as ch~irman of the board. O'Henley is manager of Lapeer County Cooperatives. Harry Stanton, manager, Eaton Farm Bureau Co-op, was elected vice chairman, and Kenneth Wads- worth, Sanilac County farmer and member of the Ruth Farmers Elevator board, was elected third member of the executive committee. Also elected were Newton Allen as president and chief executive officer, Matt Butzin, secretary-treasurer, with Greg Husby appointed as assis- tant secretary-treasurer. Allen, Butzin and Husby were employees of Farm Bureau Services, Inc. prior to its reorganization. A marketing seminar for AgriCom option 1 and 2 subscribers and other interested persons is planned for Feb. 15 It 16 at the Battle Creek Stouffer's Inn. The conference will include sessions on hedging, market strategy, market analysis, commodity options, market outlook and MSU's new agricultural software index. A computer trade show will also be held. The conference is included in the annual subscription package for AgriCom options 1 and 2, but participants must pay for lodging and meals. Registration for other FB members is $100 and the fee for non-members is $150, plus lodging and meals. Send your reservations by Feb. 8 to Michigan Farm Bureau, Commodity Activities and Research Department, 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy., P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. 48909. All participants needing hotel accommodations should contact Stouffer's at 616-963-7050 . .Merchandising and effective selling of products will be the major topics of discus- sion at the annual meetings of Michigan Certified Farm Markets and Farm Markets Coopera- tive, Feb. 15-16 at the Sheraton Inn, Lansing. The meeting will be called to order at 10 a.m. on the 15th and adjourn at 3:.30 p.m. on the 16th. Early reservations are advised. Those interested in attending may call 800-452-2855 for further details. Twenty-one new. county FB presidents attended a two-day conference in Lansing, designed to help make them effective administrators and leaders for their county units. Ses- sions were held on FB structure, goal-setting, how to surface and work with county leaders and administrative responsibilities. The new presidents also met with MFB division directors and department managers, and affiliate company managers. Gov. Blancbard bas reappointed Dr. S. Leon Whitney of Detroit and Robert Chaffin of Ithaca to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture, for terms expiring Dee. 31, 1986. Chaf- fin has been elected chairperson. In other gubernatorial appointments, Thomas P. Heffron, a Belding fruit groW;.er,and Loren B. Young, a Ludington fruit and vegetable grower, will succeed Shirley Pitsch, Rockford, and Daryl Peterson, Ludington, on the Michigan Apple Committee. Their appointments, for terms expiring April 1, 1986, are subject to Senate confirmation. Named to succeed former MFB regional representative Hugo Kivi on the Upper Peninsula State Fair Board of Managers was Cyril W. LaTendresse, retired farmer from Chassell, for a term expir- ing Sept. .30, 1988. His appointment must also be confirmed by the Senate. The Michigan Society of Planning Officials' training programs for planning I zon- ing commissioners are being offered again in 1984. Two basic training programs will be offered concurrently. One program is designed especially for planning commissioners and zon- ing board members. The other program is exclusively for members of zoning boards of appeals. Each training program covers basic duties and responsibilities, statutory requirements, prac- tical techniques and effective processes for making decisions on plans, zoning changes, special permits, variances and other activities. These programs will be held: Feb. 27 - Kalama- zoo Hilton; Feb. 28 - Ferris State College, Big Rapids; Feb. 29 - Bavarian Inn, Frankenmuth; March 1 - Mercy College Conference Center, Detroit; March 5 - Park Place Hotel, Traverse Ci- ty; March 6 - Holiday Inn, Alpena; and March 7 - Northern Michigan University, Marquette. The registration fee for each program is $20, which includes educational materials and a meal. (There is a discount for early registrations and groups.) For further information or a registration form contact: MSPO,P.O. Box 18187, Lansing, Mich. 48901; phone 517-484-3333. 16 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 Honolulu ~:W"/I/il • - r"' -- .-:- ....... ~ , • Hotel ~:i";-"- i · u11 nc Accommodations Jii . .... . ~. - The Hilton Hawaiian Village is truly unique amid the bustle of Waikiki. A complete resort nestled among 20 lush acres on the largest palm- shaded beach on Waikiki. The sparkling blue waters of the Pacific are yours to enjoy, as well as a peaceful 4-acre lagoon and 3 fresh water swimming pools". Every personal touch is cared for at the Hilton Hawaiian Village-there is even an ice cream parlor, shop- ping arcades, as well as special hotel rooms carefully designed specifically for guests confined to a wheelchair. The Hilton thinks of everything, so you don't have to-So lean back, listen to Don Ho's show in the Hilton Dome Showroom, and Enjoy! HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE HOTEL Tuesday, January and Wednesday, PROGRAM A SPECIAL Maui and Honolulu January 3-10, 1985 January 9-1985 HONOLULU, HAWAII. ANNUAL MEETING- TRAVEL Thursday, January 3-ARRIVE MAUI- Transportation will take you from the Thursday, January 10-DEPARTURE DAY- Transportation will take you from your Waikiki hotel to HONOLULU AIR- Kahului Airport to the ROYAL LAHAINA PORT for your departure flight. PROGRAMS HOTEL for the night. Friday, January 4-IAO VALLEY/ PROGRAM A PRICE (per person) LAHAINA- This morning visit the Based on double occupancy INCLUDING beautiful lao Valley for a view of the "needle," a fern covered volcanic spire. Grand Rapids $1,050.19 Detroit $1,050.19 Tri-City $1,050.19 Continue along Maui's rugged coastline THE and see the islands of Molokai and Lanai in the distance. Proceed to historic Lahaina, former capital of the islands and NEIGHBOR famous whaling center of old. Saturday, January 5 and Sunday, January PROGRAM B 6-Days free for leisure or optional ISLANDS sightseeing. Honolulu, Kaui and Maui January 7-15, 1985 Monday, January 7-ARRIVE HONOLULU- An optional morning Agricultural Tour Transportation will take you from on January 5 will be available for all in- HONOLULU AIRPORT to your Waikiki terested persons. The cost of this tour is hotel. Overnight at the HILTON $15.75 per person (based on a minimum HAWAIIAN VILLAGE HOTEL. of 40 persons). Tuesday, January 8 and Wednesday January 9-1985 ANNUAL MEET- Monday, January 7-DEPART MAUI- ING-HONOLULU, HAWAII. Transportation will take you from your hotel to the Kahului Airport for your flight Thursday, January 10-IN HONOLULU. to HONOLULU. Friday, January 11-DEPART ARRIVE HONOLULU-Transportation will HONOLULU-Transportation will take take you from the Interisland Terminal to you from your Waikiki hotel to the in- your Waikiki hotel. Overnight at the terisland Terminal for your flight to HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE HOTEL. KAUAI. ARRIVE KAUAI-Upon arrival at Lihue Airport, transportation will take you to PROGRAM C Tuesday, January 15-DEPART Transportation will take you from the Maui MAUI- Honolulu, Hawaii, Maui and Kauai Surf Hotel to Kahului Airport for your your hotel-the KAUAI BEACHBOY January 7-17, 1985 flight to KAUAI. HOTEL. Balance of day free for leisure or optional Monday, January 7-ARRIVE HONOLULU- ARRIVE KAUAI-WAILUA RIVER sightseeing. Transportation wi Ii take you from TOUR-Upon your arrival at Lihue Air- HONOLULU AIRPORT to your Waikiki port, your motorcoach transports you to hotel. Overnight at the HilTON Kauai's "Wailua River region," the HAWAIIAN VILLAGE HOTEL. religious seat of ancient Kauai chieftains. At the Wailua Marina, board a boat for a An optional afternoon Agricultural Tour on Tuesday, January 8 and Wednesday, cruise up river, viewing beautiful sub- January 12 will be available for all in- January 9-1985 ANNUAL MEET- tropical vegetation and legendary sites terested persons. The cost of this tour is ING-HONOLULU, HAWAII. enroute. After docking, a short walk leads $15.75 per person (based on a minimum Thursday, January 10-IN HONOLULU. you to the hauntingly beautiful Fern Grot- of 40 persons). to, where the Hawaiian Wedding Song is Friday, January 11-DEPART HONOLULU- Transportation will take sund in this natural amphitheater. Return- you from your Waikiki hotel to the In- ing to the Marina, your tour continues to terisland terminal for your flight to HILO, Holo-Holo-Ku (temple) and from there ex- Saturday, January 12-MORNING perience a panoramic view of dramatic WAILUA RIVER TOUR-This morning HAWAII. Opaekaa Falls before arriving at your finds you being transported by motor- ARRIVE HILO-HILO/AGRICUL TURAL hotel. Overnight at the KAUAI SURF coach to Kauai's "Wailua River region," VISITS/VOLCANO/ KONA TOUR-Sur- HOTEl. the religious seat of ancient Kauai chief- rounded by fields of orchids and an- tains. At the Wailua Marina, board a boat thuriums, HILO is one of the world's Wednesday, January 16-Day free for for a leisurely cruise up river, viewing great floral centers. Visit all points of in- leisure or optional sightseeing. beautiful subtropical vegetation and terest in this beautiful area, including legendary sites enroute. After docking, a Rainbow Falls, Liliuokalani Park and a short walk leads you to the hauntingly selection of orchid/ anthurium nurseries. beautiful Fern Grotto, where the Hawaiian Continue from Hilo, via scenic highway through tropical forests, sugar cane plan- An optional morning Agricultural Tour on Wedding Song is sung in this natural am- tations and anthurium gardens into January 16 will be available for all in- phitheater. Returning to the marina, your Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, to visit terested persons. The cost of this tour is tour continues to Holo-Holo-Ku (temple) fiery Kilauea Crater. Picnic luncheon $15.75 per person (based on a minimum and from there experience a panoramic enroute. Proceed via the Ka'u Desert and of 40 persons). view of dramatic Opeakaa Falls before ar- riving back at your hotel. the Black Sand Beach at Punaluu into one of the islands several siJgar cane Balance of day free for leisure or optional producing areas, stopping to visit one of sightseeing. the farms. Your tour continues through Thursday, January 17-DEPARTURE "the Lava Flows" to the beautiful Kona DAY-Transportation will take you from Coast. Here you will have an opportunity the KAUAI SURF HOTEL to the LIHUE to see Macadamia Nut Farms and Coffee AIRPORT for your departure flight. Farms. A farm guide, from the island, will An optional morning Agricultural Tour on PROGRAM C PRICE (per person) travel with you from Hilo to Kona, pro- January 14 will be available for all in- viding pertinent agriculture insight on the Based on double occupancy terested persons. The cost of this tour is various properties viewed or visited Grand $15.75 per person (based on a minimum enroute. Overnight at the KONA SURF Rapids Detroit Tri-City of 40 persons). HOTEL. $1-,301.66 $1,301.66 $1,301.66 Saturday, January 12-Day free for leisure or optional sightseeing. INCLUDED IN PROGRAM PRICES • Roundtrip airfare from the cities shown to Sunday, January 13-DEPART KONA- Sunday, January 13-DEPART KAUAI- Hawaii based on fares effective November Transportation will take you from the 1, 1983. (Since airfares are subject to Transportation will take you from your Kona Surf Hotel to the Ke-Ahole Airport change at any time by the airlines, any in- hotel to the Lihue Airport for your flight to for your flight to MAUl. crease or decrease will be reflected on MAUl. your Confirmation! ARRIVE MAUI-IAO VALLEY/LAHAINA ARRIVE MAUI-IAO VALLEY/LAHAINA Invoice from GTU.) TOUR-Upon arrival at the Kahului Air- TOUR-Upon arrival at the Kahului Air- • Neighbor Island airfare as applicable to the port, proceed to the beautiful lao Valley port, proceed to the beautiful lao Valley itinerary for a view of the "needle," a fern for a view of the "needle," a fern • Hotel accommodations as specified in covered volcanic spire. Continue along covered volcanic spire. Continue along each itinerary. Maui's rugged coastline and see the • Fresh flower lei greeting upon arrival in Maui's rugged coastline and see the islands of Molokai and Lanai in the Hawaii. islands of Molokai and Lanai in the • Roundtrip transfer service between all distance. Visit Lahaina, former capital of distance. Next visit Lahaina, former hotels and airports including baggage the islands and historic old whaling capital of the islands and historic old handling. center, now bustling with charming shops whaling center, now bustling with charm- • Gratuities to all airport porters and hotel and restaurants. Overnight at the ing shops and restaurants. Overnight at bellmen upon arrival and departure. KAANAPALI BEACH HOTEL. the MAUl SURF HOTEl. • Cruise on the RELLA MAE to Pearl Har- bor during your stay in Honolulu. Monday, January 14-Day free for leisure Monday, January 14-Day free for leisure • Sightseeing on the Neighbor Islands as or optional sightseeing. or optional sightseeing. specified in the itinerary including all admis- sion fees. Tuesday, January 15-DEPARTURE • 4% Hawaii State Tax on all of the above DA Y- Transportation will take you from items. your hotel to the Kahului Airport for your • Services of a GTU Escort throughout your departure flight. stay in Hawaii. PROGRAM B PRICE (per person) An optional morning Agricultural Tour on Not included: Meals other than those January 14 will be available for all in- specified in the itinerary, gratuities to sight- Based on double occupancy terested persons. The cost of this tour is seeing guides/drivers and tour escorts, any Grand $15.75 per person (based on a minimum expenses of a personal nature such as Rapids Detroit Tri-City of 40 persons). valet charges. telephone calls, etc .. and $1,093.48 $1,193.48 $1,093.48 any items not specified herein. warm welcome and invitation to join us in Hawaii for the 66th Annual Meeting Preliminary of the AMERICAN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION. Hawaii has become, rightfully so, a very "special" resort for all Americans, and one of the world's most popular "meeting places". Those members who will be joining us in Program January of 1985 will experience quickly the incredible qualities of our 50th State, and understand why the word ALOHA has taken on such meaning for Monday, January 7, 1985 each traveler to the Islands. Early Evening Vesper Service ow cost, yet high quality, was the goal we set up in designing these special Tuesday, January 8, 1985 packages uniquely designed for our members. Complete details are presented 9:00 a.m. General Session at in this brochure. All programs have been developed and will be administered Blaisdell Center by GTU, INC., the nation's leading convention coordinator and the officially ap- pointed housing and travel coordinator for the 66th Annual Meeting in Hawaii. 1:30 p.m. Conferences at vario hotels pportunity to combine an all important industry meeting with a vacation in America's most magnificent resort comes all too infrequently. For this reason, 8:00 p.m. Recognition and we encourage you to seriously consider participation in one of these special Awards Program c programs we have designed for you. We do want to assure you that a team of Blaisdell Center travel specialists has been assigned to your program, and will not only coor- dinate the arrangements for these special State Programs, but will al?o be Wednesday, January 9, 1985 prepared to assist you with any special requirements you might have, as well as 9:00 a.m. General Session at independent travel arrangements you may need over and above the group pro- Blaisdell Center grams outlined in this brochure. 1:30 p.m. Business Session at awaii is made easy for you! Simply review the special programs we have Sheraton Waikiki designed for you and complete the Official Registration/Reservation Form includ- Hotel ed as a part of this brochure and return it to GTU, INC. with the appropriate Evening YF&R Awards Progn deposit at the earliest possible date. Thursday, January 10, 1985 word to the wise: Because of the incredible popularity of Hawaii, and the an- 8:30 a.m. Business Session at ticipated attendance at the Meeting, a limited amount of quality airline seats and Sheraton Waikiki hotel rooms are available. All arrangements will be confirmed by GTU, INC. on a "first come - first served" basis. Because of the anticipated demand, we can- Hotel not emphasize strongly enough our recommendation that you make your reser- vations now! Hawaii is truly a "special place" for "special people". You owe it to yourself to be "special" in 1985. ------------------------------------------------------------, Please send me complete details on Special Travel Complete this form and ma Programs to the American Farm Bureau Federation to: 66th Annual Meeting in Hawaii. Name _ Michigan Farm Address _ Bureau P.O. Box 30960 City/State/Zip Lansing, Michigan 48909 RURAL EXCHANGE FAKMETTE in. A minimum of 10 points is Dance the Night Away ... By Andrea Hofmeister required in order to be exempt FB members in Huron, Sanilac Tuscola County from a drawing for the guinea and Tuscola counties are mak- pig at the end of the contest. ing plans for the third annual Guinea, as the membership Three Hearts Dance to be held booby prize has been named at the Colony House in Cass Ci- because of its uncertain gender, ty on Feb. 25. This "just for is currently on display at the fun" event is the perfect place Lapeer County FB office, loving- to take that special valentine. ly cared for by county secretary Dinner is from 7:30 p.m. to Judy Snover and her assistant 8:30 p.m., followed by dancing Pat Woodward. Both admit they to the sounds of John Lipinski's had a part in the development Variety Band from 9 p.m. to 1 of the unique idea and both a.m. There will also be plenty of also admit they're getting at- card playing, prize drawings tached to Guinea, even though and a cash bar. they know it wiII soon go to a Tickets are $10 per person. permanent home. For more information contact: "We first thought about rab- Cathy Tinsey, Huron County FB Valentine's Day ... it's not just bits as a booby prize, but rab- secretary, phone 517-269-9911., for people anymore. bits multiply and the loser would. probably just fatten them up and eat them," said Judy. Kural Rascals Lapeer's Booby Prize "Then someone came up with Worth Avoiding the idea of a tarantula, but we A cute little guinea pig to vetoed that!" feed and love - and clean up Lapeer's contest is devised so after - just what every self- there's something to work for respecting membership cam- as well as something to work paign worker in Lapeer County against. Workers who earn 35 doesn't want! Yet, one of them points or more are eligible to will take the lovable little win the first prize of a $100 gift creature home unless they earn certificate for a weekend at a enough points to avoid it. Holiday Inn; -those who earn 25 Membership workers, under a points are eligible for the sec- point system, will strive to ond prize, a $50 gift certificate. Although Idaho young farmer avoid winning the guinea pig "We've got a great committee Paul Ogden did not continue on booby prize. They earn five this year and these ideas have to the Discussion Meet finals at the AFBFannual meeting, he is points for writing a new mem- really worked," said Judy. obviously a winner in the eyes of ber, four for a transfer-in and, "We're way ahead of last year his two "rural rascals," Shelbe, two for the renewals they bring and just 270 from goal." 7, and Breck, 4. FARMERS OF THE WEEK The Farmer of the Week program, co- Dec. 12 - Herman Rader, 66, a 610 acres with the help of his family. sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance dairy and cash farmer from Howard City, He is an elder in the Presbyterian Group and the Michigan Farm Radio Net- farms 500 acres and has a herd of 104 Church, serves on the Calhoun County work, honors Michigan farmers for their registered Guernsey cows. He was presi- FB board, served on the Soil Conserva- contributions to the community and the dent of the Montcalm County FB for six tion District board, and earned the agricultural industry. Four farmers were years, served 15 years on the township State Farmer Degree from FFA. honored in December 1983: board of trustees and serves on the district and state Guernsey boards. He Dec. 26 - Leo Hellebuyck, 60, is a Dec. 5 - Dan Berg, 31, operates an is an MMPA board member, a church U-pick raspberry, tomato and strawberry 840-acre grain and hog farm near board member, a past school board grower. He farms 80 acres devoted to Charlevoix. He serves on the Charlevoix member, and he spent 40 years as U-pick crops for drive-in customers. He, County FB board, was county FB presi- secretary of the DHIA board. is an active member of St. Isidore dent for two years, is active in the Parish in Mt. Clemens, a past member Young Farmers program, and works Dec. 19 - Dennis Anderson, 48, a of the St. Isidore church board and with local 4-H groups. cash crop and veal farmer from Homer. served on the church school board, and He feeds 3,000 veal calves and farms a member of the Macomb County FB. RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 21 FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE FARM EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK MISCELLANEOUS NURSERY STOCK Badger r10rthland equipment for Sheep. C 8r S Curtis. Reg. Suffolks and Book Salel Hardcovers, $1.00 eachl Tree Source. Quality hybrid poplar sale: lagoon agitators and tanks, roller Reg. Southdowns. Helping small flock Over 400 titles: fiction, western, stock for: commercial energy planta- mills, ear corn mills, bale choppers, etc. owners and 4-H'ers our special Interest. mystery. Chlldren's series books and tions. home heating, fast growing shade Also, we rent manure tanks and agita- 204 N. Williams, Stockbridge, Mich. 517- classics. Two 20( stamps for list. Glenn trees. wind breaks. Consulting and tors, Plummer Supply, 616-792-2215, 851-704.3 - 517-851-8017. (7-12t-22p) Smith, Box 151.3, Dept. F-I 0, Akron, Ohio custom tree planting services . .303 S, (2-27p-ts) 44.309. (1-2t-.30p-ts) Veronica Ct .. St. Joseph. Mich. 49085. Paint "orses - Weanllngs, yearlings, Phone 616-98.3-7551. (12-7t-.33p-ts) farrowing Stalls - All steel $179.20. bred mares. Lawerance Baumunk, Big Unattached? Pen Pals r1atlonwlde. Includes feeder-waterer, top rail. rump Rapids, Mich. 1-616-796-2.346. Giant paste tomato. Origin Italy. 25 Country Lovin Singles. Details free. Box rail. Weighs 196"'. Free literature. Starr (9-lOt-12p) seeds $1.00 plus SASE. Carl Jensen. 59.3RL - Appleton, Wis. 54912 National. 219 Main, Colchester, IL 62.326. ( 1-5t-14p-ts) 7480 Frances Road, Flushing, Mich. Springing "olsteln "elfers. Phone (2-24p-ts) 48433. (2-2t-18p) Byron Waddell, Charlotte, 517-54.3-.3415. Wanted to buy: Gehl C-40 silo filler, (2-8p) Log "omes. For Information on build- milk cans for shipping milk, and horse Ing and log home seminar to be held In collars, can easily be sent by mall. John Coldwater. Mich .. write: Joel Williams, FOR nOMEMAKERS Spezla, Leonard, Mich. 480.38. Phone .31.3- DOGS 1034 Bidwell Rd .. Quincy, Mich. 49082. (2-25p) 628-4147. (2-27p) Collie. Border Collie. Sheltle (Minia- Sausagemakers - greatl German ture Collie) registered puppies, studs. Satellite antenna dealers needed - recipes. no nitratesl Frankfurters. Sum- LIVESTOCK Baird Farm, Lowell, 616-897-9462. no experience required - dealer cost for mer, Bologna, Headcheese, Venison and (2-.3t-l.3p) complete unit as low as $747.00 - retail Porksausage! $1.00. Hamlltons, Box fast growing Cornish Cross. Over 20 $1,.395.00 - call todayl .30.3-6.36-0640. 652-1.31, New Ulm, Minn. 56073. varieties popular and fancy chicks. Ban- (11-6t-21 pots) (2-21 pots) tams, ducks, goslings, turkeys, guineas, MISCELLANEOUS Pharoah Quail. Pictured Brochure - Radio Shack Computer for Sale - Lose weight foreverl 20 Ibs. monthlyl 25(. Cackle Hatchery, Box 529JJ, Model .3, 48k. Will sell with word process- No diet pills! No starvation! Enjoy losing! Silent Iltotlvators: Lose weight. relieve Lebanon, MO 655.36. (l-8t-28b-ts) Ing, mailing list. statistical analysis and Even when all else has failed! New weight stress, Improve health, chlldren's grades or study habits. Multilevel business op- editor / assembler programs, plus other control tape! Use the power of the sub- Rare. fancy. exotic and old fashioned portunity with no bookkeeping, Inven- software (all on cassette). Also includes conscious mind! Stay trim forever! This bantams, chicks, ducklings, turkeys, tory, or meetings. Write: Clothier Sales, Radio Shack computer cassette player. cassette tape will change your Iirel Only guineas, geese. Pictured brochure free. Box 716, Pontiac, Mich. 48056. $850 or best offer. Contact Joe Mielke. $12.50. Hamlltons, Box 652-131, New Country Hatchery, Wewoka, Oklahoma (2-2t-.30p-ts) 3059 Biber. Apt. 5-9, East Lansing. Ulm, Minn. 5607.3. Satisfaction guaran- 74884. (1-6t-20p-ts) Michigan 4882.3. Phone 517-337-09.37. teed. (2-51 pots) free catalog - wholesale prices. f:lllra Income - Mall Order Agent - Of- (I-51 p-tf) Reds, cornish cross, barred rocks, white fer 20,000 Items of major needs by Pecansl Quart each halves. pieces, rocks, sexllnks, leghorns, turkeys, catalog and monthly flyers to farmers In Auctioneer Vaughn "Joe" Lewis. meal. .3 quart sampler, $12.95. Postpaid. ducks. Reich Poultry Farms, Route I, counties around you. P.O. Box 4050, .3310 Paragon Road. Tipton, Mich. Canecreek Farm. Dept. MF, Cookeville, Marietta, PA 17547. (1-6t-22p-ts) K.C., M064101. (2-28b-ts) 49287. Phone 517-431-2571. Purebred TN 38502. (7-12t-16p-ts) livestock, farm machinery, estate, and antique auctions. (2-IOt-18p) Savel Iltake your ownl Frozen hash- browns. tater tots, french fries! Com- CLASSIFIED AD POLICY "See Through People 50 Ways" Stop plete, easy. Instructions! $1.00. deceivers! 50 protections! $1. Newlife, Hamiltons, Box 652-181. New Ulm, Minn. Members pay lOct per word for non-commerical ads and 15ct per Box 684-SQ. Boulder City, Nevada 89005. 5607.3. (2-21 pots) word for ads which promote a commercial business other than (9-6t-16p-ts) agriculture. All other advertisers pay 20ct per word for one inser- Iltake an extra $200 a month part- tion and l5ct per word for two or more consecutive insertions. time one hour a week from your kitchen REAL ESTATE The deadline for ads is the first Monday of the month pre- table. More If you wish. No experience. ceding publication and the publisher has the right to reject any education requirements. Major U.S. cor- 'f:questrlan Center' -Horse lovers, poration. For application. send $1.00 advertising copy submitted. All ads must be pre-paid and may this combination is hard to beat. Lovely and a LSASE to: Tobec, Route I. Box 514. new home and new barn on 10 acres, be pre-paid up to one year in advance. Please indicate if you are a Carpenter, Mississippi 39050. older home. shop and barn. $82,000, Farm Bureau member. It is the responsibility of the advertiser to (2-42p-ts) $50.000, $11.000. respectively. P.L. re-insert the ad on a month-by-month or year-by-year basis. Frisbey and Associates, Inc .. U.S. .31 f:xtra Income. Addressing labels. South, Alanson. Mich. 49706. Phone Send ads to Rural Living, P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mich. Easler than addressing envelopes. Free 616-.347-4656. (12-3t-56p-ts) 48909. No ads will be taken over the phone. details. Send two stamps: LISTS. Box 90028-RR. East Point. GA .30364. Blueberry farm - f:xcellent produc- ( 12-3t-20p-ts) Ing stage. 20 acres of blueberries and 10 acres of other. Home, barn. large Iltall Delivery flip-Up Signal: No more tool pole bldg .. packing shed. Tractor, Name of those unnecessary trips to your drag, sprayer, rotilltor and all needed mailbox. Flips up automatically when equipment to run the farming business! mall carrier delivers your mail. then can Blueberry Harvestor available. Irrigation Address be seen from your house window. Not equipment. pond and pipe. 4 inch well. plastic. Last for years. Try one and you Fantastic U-Pick operation and clientele! OFarm Bureau member ONon-member would never be without. Only $3.95 + 85 Members of Michigan Blueberry Growers cents postage and handling or .3 for Marketl Must be seen to appreciate! $12.00 - postpaid. Money refunded In- Come and look us over. 616-924-0229. Run the following ad in the issue(s): cluding postage if not completely Fremont - Newaygo County. Mike & satisfied upon return within 60 days. Barb Maxson. (12-3t-74p) You cannot lose, only gain. Many satisfied customers. Order today. Home 40 acre retirement farm. One mile off Product Sales, 1171 Sandcreek Hwy .. U.S. .31 freeway. 6.000 laying hens In Adrian, Mich. 49221. (12-.3t-87p) production. Nice 6 room farmhouse. Other potentials. Write: The Egg Farm, Deluxe mlnl-matlc film strip projec- Route 2, Hart. Mich. 49420. (1-.3t-.30p) tor and cassette system. All in one carry- Ing case - nice for a mall presentation Wanted Rural Wooded Acreage with for those "Down on the Farm Days:' or without buildings and home, In $180.00. Excellent condition. Used only Hastings, Middleville area. Prefer trading three times. Call Maxson's 616-924-0229. two homes in Thumb area. Phone 517- ( 12-.3t-.38p) 674-2.311. or write P.O. Box 195, Union- ville, Mich, 48767. (2-.30p) "undreds Weekly possible processing mall at homel Free detallsl Dlstrlbutors. 70 acres blueberry land In northern Box 1587-MFNR, Rahway. NJ 07065. Florida. excellent retail U-pick potential. (2-16p-ts) The Berries, 11738 Apple Drive, Nunica, Mich. 49448. Phone 616-837-6235 or Words Insertions Total Due _ 616-865-6417. (2-22p) RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 19841 The Discussion Topic is used by Community Ac- tion Groups for monthly polley discussions. lIealtb Care Cost Deductions For years, Michigan Farm tax deduction on their federal The new law provides that Bureau and the American Farm income tax return. self-employed individuals will Bureau Federation have worked Under current law, beginning be able to take a tax credit for with Congress in an effor.t to Jan. 1, 1983, self-employed per- 1984 through 1989 against the find solutions to the complex sons can deduct from their self-employment tax that they problems associated with health federal income tax only the must pay. After 1990, a new care costs and health insur- combined amount of medical system of income tax deduc- ance. Particular attention has expenses and health insurance tions will be available to self- been given to a specific health premium that exceeds 5°1o of employed taxpayers. The deduc- insurance matter - the inequi- their adjusted gross income. tion will be equal to one-half of ty that exists in the use of in- Prior to 1983, self-employed the amount of self-employment come tax deductions to sub- persons could automatically taxes paid for the taxable year. sidize health insurance. deduct the first $150 of health The concept of a deduction For instance, many employers insurance costs as well as the from the cost of health in- furnish health insurance cover- remaining amount of combined surance premiums could be pat- age for their employees. The health insurance costs, and all terned after the deductions full cost of the coverage is other medical expenses that ex- enacted in the Social Security deductible to the employer as a ceeded 3°1o of adjusted gross in- legislation. business expense and is tax- come. Rising health care costs is free to the employ_ee.The feder- Farmers constitute 14°/0 of another factor that points out al government is subsidizing self-employed individuals. The the need for H.R. 3487. Con- health care for these taxpayers most recent figures from the In- gress is addressing the issue of at the expense of two other ternal Revenue Service indicate health care insurance for the groups of taxpayers who cannot that in 1978 there were 1.1 unemployed, but the employed, take advantage of these tax million farmers out of a total of as well as.the unemployed, are code provisions: self-employed approximately 7.6 million self- hurt by rising health care costs. taxpayers and employees who employed people. A deduction could reduce the do not receive employer financ- A business deduction is not burden, not only of higher ed health insurance coverage. available to self-employed health costs, but of the increas- At the 1983 AFBF annual farmers for the cost of their ing tax burden on a middle in- meeting in Dallas, delegates health insurance. The denial of come taxpayer. adopted a policy to support a a business deduction is ap- From the standpoint of self- health insurance premium de- parently because the insurance employed farmers, there is a duction for the self-employed is considered a personal ex- question of the equity of dif- under IRS rules. This policy pense, rather than a business ferential tax treatment for originated among Michigan expense. However, FB believes similarly situated farmers. For Farm Bureau members in the the deduction is a justifiable example, a self-employed farm- policy development process. business expense because the er (sole proprietor) cannot After three years of work be- self-employed farmer has a deduct the cost of health in- tween MFB, AFBF and Congress, hybrid business situation, con- surance premiums as a busi- a bill to this effect has been in- ducting activities as both an ness expense. If the farming troduced by Rep. Del Latta employer and an employee. operation were incorporated, (R-Ohio). The bill, H.R. 3487, ap- A precedent for this type of however, the farmer would be pears to have strong backing. deduction for the self-employed classified as an employee of the Since its introduction in July, was set in the Social Security farming corporation. The cor- 37 congressmen have co-spon- amendments of 1982. Despite poration, as the employer, sored the bill. the recent Social Security tax could then deduct the cost of H.R. 3487 would allow self- increase, the new law took a the health insurance as a cor- employed persons to claim one- step to help offset the burden porate business expense; and half of the amount they pay for of higher Social Security taxes. the farmer, as the employee, health insurance premiums as a (continued on page 30) RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 2.3 Power Pull '84 Headline YOUR Name $5.95 Let us embroider your name. farm. or business name on your cap. Personalized caps from 1 to dozens. Mesh. denim or insulated caps. Guaranteed or your money back. (Other emblem designs and hat colors available) $5.95 plus $0.35 shipping/handling. 4 caps/$23.20 plus $1.40 shipping/handling. Please ship __ caps. Imprint - limit 2 lines Mesh Denim Insulated o Blue 0 unlined 0 Blue o Red 0 lined 0 Red o Check 0 Master Card DVISA 0 Am. Express 0 Diners Club Card' Exp. date o SEND FREE FARM SUPPLY CATALOG (Ear Tags. Tools. Clothes. Truck Accessories. Housewares. GIfts & More') phone toll free 1-800-443-4934 Name Over 30 FB young farmers use of a laser measuring system Address and their spouses will be in the to insure accuracy and provide City audience to witness Power Pull instant distance displays. A State Zip '84 as the flame-spewing, tire- self-propelled weight sled will Modern Farm chewing super tractors invade also be introduced to the com- 861 Big Horn Avenue, Cody, Wyoming 82414 the Pontiac Silverdome on Feb. petition this year, eliminating 25 for the 9th annual Silver- the need for a pull back tractor. dome Tractor Pull. Tickets are $10 each for 227 page illustrated book explains sausage making The young farmers, who at- adults and $1 for children 12 plus home curing and smoking of meat, fowt and fish. Over 100 recipes. We now have Low San tended the Michigan Farm Bu- and under. Tickets are available Seasonings. Free equipment and supply catalog reau annual meeting to com- at the Pontiac Silverdome Box has more information. The SAUSAGEMAKER pete in the Distinguished Young Office, 1200 Featherstone, Pon- 177 -56 Military Road Buffalo. N.Y. 14207 Farmer or Outstanding Young tiac, phone 313-456-1600. For Farm Woman contests, received more information call American TREES: Planting stock for two complimentary tickets to Shows, Inc., sponsor of the trac- Christmas, ornamental and the tractor pull. tor pull, at 313-352-0156. reforestation at wholesale prices. Sanctioned by the National Free price list and planting guide. Tractor Pull Association, entries Flickingers' Nursery, Sagamore, PA from across the United States 16250. Phone 412-783-6528. will be competing in five classes on the Silverdome's 300-foot in- MID-SOUTU TRACTOR door track. PARTS, INC. The first event begins at 2 Rt. 2. Box .316-M2. Sikeston. MO 6.380 I p.m. and will feature 7000 super CALL TOLL FREE stocks and 7000 modifieds. The Out of State: 1-800-325-1010 8 p.m. event will feature 9000 Missouri Res.: 1-800-392-0929 "For good used parts at low prices. " super stocks, 9000 modifieds -"t PONT\~C and, for the first time, the 1750 ~. ~ERt)OME blown mini rods. "Mean Ole Allis," the Allis- Several new innovations will Chalmers D-21 super stock trac- be featured. A smoke ventila- tor and championship puller tion machine will eliminate the from Charlotte, will be among smoke from the superstocks. those competing at the Silver- dome Tractor Pull on Feb. 25. Fans will also see the inaugural Allis was promoting the event at 1983 MFBannual meeting. 24 RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 '". "",,Att¥'_LandBank~ o~business ~:~is'A~lE~' ~ar1ne~ make ..the .-mostof 0pRP~t1es. For 65 years, we've been %%,8 reliable p~er in the growth of Americanagrict.1ltirre. As farmers have innovated and expanded over the years, the Land Bank has stood behind them .with credit assistance. Today, we're ready to do the same for you. We'll help you realize the full potential of your plans. At the Land Bank, we special- ize in fmance and farming. With your farming know-how and our fmancial expertise, we can build a great out- look on the future. The Federal Land Bank Association,part of Farm Credit Services. Helping you harvest the success you deserve. Farm Credit Services is the Federal Land Bank Association, Production Credit Association and the Bank for Cooperatives. NOMIC UPDATE Challenges, Opportunities Predicted Several conferences were held Dairy Conference life, especially in underdevel- during the AFBF annual meet- oped and developing nations. An institution that many ing, Jan. 8-12 in Orland~, . But the immediate future for dairy farmers have taken for. Florida. Following are highlights soybean demand is gloomy. granted is under attack, Hollis of the information presented at Markey said even in Japan, the Hatfield of AFBF's dairy depart- many of those conferences. United States' best soybean ment told farmers during the customer, oilseed consumption dairy conference. Livestock Conference is declining even though the "Consumers claim that mar- "Keep flexible and keep tuned U.S. share has increased. keting orders raise prices, some to the markets," farmers were handlers question the regula- Forestry Conference told at the livestock conference tory aspects of orders, and by Dr. Wayne D. Purcell of Vast opportunities await land- some producers wonder why Virginia Polytechnic Institute owners who are willing to apply orders exist," he said. and State University. good management te.chniques Hatfield outlined the major "As a long run strategy, live- to their forest operatIons, ac- criticisms of the marketing stock producers must diversify cording to Dr. Benton Box of orders - that they eliminate to protect against the problems the College of Forestry at Clem- price competition, encourage associated with being a 'price son University. inefficient competition and taker' and getting a residual "A large majority of land- cause the Class I price to be set price after all margins are owners surveyed considered too high. The industry must covered," he said. forest improvements a good in- recognize that some of the Purcell urged cow-calf pro- vestment, but few of them were criticism is justified and that ducers, who have suitable for- willing to invest income "some order changes are essen- ages, to consider diversifying generated by timber sal~s on tial if federal orders are to into the stocker business, and tree planting and forest Im- operate effectively in . "feeder pig producers probably provements," Box said. tomorrow's market," he said. should consider expanding to a Many reasons for a reluctance finishing program." Soybean Conference to invest in improvements were Producers must monitor and cited by another conference Soybean demand is either protect against cyclical price speaker, John Bethea of the gloomy or bright, depending on moves in both cattle and hogs, Florida Department of Agricul- whether you want to wait until Purcell said. "Keep informed ture. "We're geared to 'right the year 2000, was the essence where we are on the cycles and now.' If we can't see an im- of remarks made by Daniel E. learn to 'counter the crowd' as mediate benefit, we're not in- Markey, a hedging specialist an individual marketer." terested." with ContiCommodities. He laid Purcell is a booster of forward Bethea added that most land- out a theory of peaks and pricing at profitable levels. "If owners have good intentions, valleys in the ag economy, with you can't set prices - learn but lack economic information peaks coming every 50 to 60 when to price." and available capital to invest years. Michael V. Durando of AFBF's in reforestation and other im- Pointing to the "golden age" national affairs division review- provements. "In most in- of agriculture in 1910 to 1914, ed the effect of farm programs stances," Bethea said, "the followed by the 1972-76 period on the livestock industry. payback on timber is signifi- of "unprecedented prosperity in Although many livestock pro- cantly better than on row crop agriculture," he said the next ducers claim they "don't have a farming on marginal land." economic peak won't come un- farm program, never had, never He said that good manage- til early in the 21 st century. The wilL" farm programs do have an peak will hit in 2000 to 2005 - ment practices will help change impact on livestock producers, before the 50-to-60-year period the perception of forestry. Durando emphasized. "Loans, has run its course, he said. "Once the public and agricul- targets and farmer-hel.d re- . The shortening agent will be ture as a whole embrace for- serves contribute to high pnced genetic engineering, Markey estry as a vibrant part of the grain and to price instability." said, which is used to create agricultural community, all will new drugs to lengthen human be better off." I RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 I Sugar Conference companies. Currently 20 com- Marten called on producers to Predictions for the 1984-85 panies are producing 70% of improve their marketing world sugar situation and the nation's broilers. strategy by paying more atten- outlook are pointing toward Haffert also suggested that tion to the realistic, "big pic- continuation of the current integrators will be investing ture" instead of following their depressed market condition, ac- more in marketing and product neighbors' counsel. cording to USDAagricultural development. He predicted that Vegetable & Ag Nursery economist Peter Buzzanell. the poultry industry will provide Conference Since the spring of 1981, some excellent opportunities sugar prices have ebbed at low for young people to get a start Marketing a farm commodity levels. This is due to a combina- on the farm. successfully is as important as tion of factors, he said. A fun- Dr. John W. Siebert of the growing it, according to grow- damental supply-demand im- University of California-Davis ers speaking at the vegetable balance and record crops in described a two-year study in and ag nursery conference. 1981-82 and 1982-83 led to a Southern California on the rela- Growers of tomatoes, nursery buildup of world stocks. tionship of retail prices, weekly plants and green onions Although economists predict volume and advertising to the discussed their marketing world sugar production and egg market. techniques. Each stressed the consumption will balance in When he compared advertis- need for farmers to recognize 1983-84, Buzzanell said the big ing from year to year, the the responsibility of growing, surpluses over the past two results indicated a definite in- handling and selling their com- seasons still hang over the crease in sales when advertising modities. They urged growers to market and preclude a sharp in- increased. secure a market for their crops, crease in prices. even before they put a seed in Wheat & Feed Grains the ground. "World markets need a mini- Conference A representative from USDA mum stock level of 25% of an- nual consumption to remain rel- Wheat and feed grain pro- discussed the Caribbean Basin atively stable. If stocks drop grams for the coming year - Initiative, a measure that pro-. close to that level, world prices with the exception of the wheat vides preferential import treat- historically have become highly payment-in-kind program - of- ment for Central American and volatile and have been known fer opportunities to be seriously Caribbean nations. to rise sharply." considered by producers, ac- To prevent unfair competition Statistics show 1982-83 cording to Dr. John F. Marten, a with U.S. growers, the USDAhas stocks totaling 49% of con- staff economist for Farm Jour- implemented a "fast-track" sumption, or 45.4 million tons. nal magazine. response procedure for domes- Considering the 1983-84 out- In defining his concept of tic growers of perishable com- look, stocks should total 46 what is a good price, Marten modities. Under this procedure, million tons this August. pointed to three criteria: a price USDAoffi~ials and the president The current USDAworld sugar that meets cash flow require- must respond to a grower's production estimate of 94.7 ments, exceeds expected an- complaint within 21 days to million metric tons is below the nual average prices and is determine if a duty needs to be 1982-83 output of 101 million. above production cost. reinstated. Even though cane and beet Concerning enrollment in the federal farm programs, he said Fruit Conference sugar production output dipped, 1983-84 world con- that the acreage reduction pro- Adulteration of juice and un- sumption is predicted to ex- gram for wheat was "not the fair competition from imported pand 2%, to 93.9 million tons. greatest, but isn't bad." His ad- juices and wine were topics of vice on the 1984 wheat PIK pro- discussion at the citrus and Poultry Conference gram: "Tell them to take PIK deciduous fruit conference. "The poultry industry will and keep it." , Randall Evans, ABC Research never be the same again," said He said the federal program Corporation senior chemist, William A. Haffert Jr., editorial for corn is a good insurance estimated that adulterated juice director for Watt Publishing Co., policy which producers should costs apple growers $9 million as he reviewed recent changes consider, especially since it is a year and juice processors $30 in the industry and predicted poorer land that the govern- million a year. the broiler segment would con- ment seeks to draw into the (continued on page 29) tinue to consolidate into larger program for conservation reasons. RURAL LIVING, FEBRUARY 1984 27 Lansing Review MSU reports show that $4.6 would add more bureaucracy billionwas added to the econo- and duplication. Presently, (continued from page 7) my in 1980. anyone can filean unfair labor failure to maintain or deposit Michigan is also an important practice, a civilrights appeal, sufficient funds in the Producer producer of maple syrup, about or a case in civilcourt. There Proceeds Account; selling sick, 85,000 gallons a year. Over four are also numerous court cases diseased or contaminated ani- million Christmas trees are har- in favor of employees. mals; buying and moving quar- vested a year. Forests are also a antined animals without a writ- major reason that tourists flock ten permit; altering or removing Budget - The state closed to Michigan each year. itsbooks for 1983 with a an animal's identification. There are certain exclusions in modest surplus of $24.5 mil- the law. Solid Waste - H.B. 4365, lion.The accumulated debt has which would amend the 1978 been decreased by $24.3 million law, willcontinue to be an issue leaving a deficitof $55.3 mil- Forest Resources - Gov. in 1984. In the meantime, a lion.$19.4 million was set aside Blanchard recently announced moratorium by DNR on new to pay the constitutional re- his forestry program. This licenses and permits took effect quired state share of local ex- results from the "Governor's on Jan. 6 in up to 65 counties, penditures; $19 million to catch Conference on Forest Re- because they are without a up on state employee annual sources" held March 22-2.3, state approved solid waste man- leave and sick leave; and $.36.8 1983 at MSU. FB was one of the agement plan. Only 18 counties million was put into a capital co-sponsors through the have state approved plans. outlay account for projects Forestry Advisory Committee. Another 21 county plans are under way. Michigan forests account for under review for state approval. 51 % of allland area (18.4 Lack of a plan could help pre- million acres). 95% is commer- vent industrial and other Single Business Tax - S.B. cial;5.3% of the commercial development and prevent prop- 598 (Sen. Nick Smith et al) forests are owned by non-indus- er disposal of non-toxic solid would define "agricultural proc- trialprivate owners, 14% fed- wastes. essor" and provide certain ex- eral,22% state and county and In another related action, the emptions including qualified re- 11 % by the forest products in- Court of Appeals has ruled that search expenses. dustry. There are 276 sawmills, the DNR may issue a permit to 14 veneer mills, eight pulp and construct a solid waste disposal paper mills,and 17 other wood Workers' Compensation - facility(landfill)even though S.B. 599 (Sen. Nick Smith et al) using plants. There are also 61 7 the local government lacks a logging contractors. would include agricultural proc- waste management plan. The essing industry employers The goal is to have 50,000 court ruled that DNR could new jobs to add to the present under the present "Silcosis, operate under the provisions of Dust Disease and Logging In- 60,000 in the forest industry. the Environmental Protection dustry Compensation Fund." Act. However, a dump operation permit could not be issued until LIQUID PLASTIC tests show the adequacy of a Unemployment Compensa- (NOT SOLD IN STORES) clay sealer and the operation tion - S.B. 600 (Sen. Nick ~ Pol,u