times per year, rice 13 times per year the San Joaquin Valley. This would be the highest emissions cat- and rangeland twice per year. First, egory for NOX transmissions in the San Joaquin Valley, exceeding farmers disc and seed alfalfa, at most, all the mobile sources including all cars and trucks, which to- once every three or more years, not gether only emit 353 tons per day. eight per year; and farmers don't even Driven by agricultural inquiries, a new study was commis- disc rice or rangeland at all, much less sioned that was based on actual interviews with 360 farmers. 13 and two times per year, respectively. The new study determined that the NOX emission for these Some of the control measures suggested pumps is only 32 tons per day. for agricultural operations included: sprin- A shotgun approach will only serve to put American agricul- kler irrigation on fields prior to planting, ture out of competition with other countries and put agricul- water tanks mounted on tractors and water tural producers out of work. Because U.S. agricultural commod- sprays on the back of discing equipment, ity prices are tied to world prices, a farmer cannot simply "pass CLEAN AIR and the use of shaking equipment to shake on" the cost of doing business to the consumer. Any increase in PROPOSAL OUT OF trucks and farm implements prior to exit- operational costs of farming becomes significant and must be TOUCH WITH ing a field or unpaved road onto a paved based on accurate information that justifies the expenditures. REALITY road (this would suppa;edly eliminate the The agriculture community enjoys breathing clean air as carry-<>ut of mud or dirt, which would later much as anybody, but it doesn't want to waste money on control crucial deadline for agriculture be entrained into the atmosphere by cars or measures that have little or no effect on cleaning up the air of this is looming in Washington, trucks on paved roads). nation. It is an absolute necessity that the EPA be held account- A .C., regarding the Environ- Just by updating the EPNs estimates able and be required to use science-based research, so that intelli- mental Prota:tion Agency's National with current acreage information for gent, reasonable and justifiable decisions can be made. R L Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for each crop and correcting the number of ozone and particulate matter. Under the passes per acre for tillage implements, EPApropooal, new air quality standards will the agricultural emission levels for till- measure average ozone reading; and age operations were reduced 30 percent. g~j~ particulate matter (soot and dust). EPA At one point it was discussed that Jack Laurie, President estimate; that 34.3 percent of fine farms be permitted by their local air Michigan Farm Bureau particulate matter can be attributed to districts. In the San Joaquin Valley alone, agriculture and forestry. it was speculated that over 31,000 per- Remember to take food safety While the EPNs plan to improve air mits would need to be written for farms. precautions during the summer quality may have been well intentioned, the Each silage pile, unpaved road and grilling season end result will be economically disastrous equipment storage yard, to name a few, Summertime bring; with it an increased risk of food- and, ironically, will not improve air quality. would have been permitted. The district borne illnesse; due to the proliferation of bacteria at higher 111enew air quality standards are a text- estimated that it would need 70 addi- air temperatures, as well as the use of alternative cooking book example of what happens when over- tional permitting engineers to process air methods, most notably, the barbecue grill. Barbecuing is an zealous regulators fail to employ common quality permits just for farms. increasingly popular fonn of cooking. Inaddition to the sense and sound scientific data in their In the original EPA projections, it was development of more sophisticated barbecue grills, a greater decision-making pJ'OCeiS. assumed that all farming in California variety of food is now cooked out in the open air. Ask farmers in California what the was "dryland" farmed. It assumed that "Barbecuing is no longer confined to just hot dogs, future holds if this proposal, already rub- the land was not irrigated, and that there hamburgers or steak," said Ken Nye, director of the Michi- ber-stamped by the Clinton administra- was no vegetation cover, or cover canopy, gan Farm Bureau's Commodities and Environmental tion, is approved by Congress. Farmers from the crops. Once irrigation and veg- Division. Michigan Farm Bureau joined other members of there have been battling with EPA over the etation cover were put into the wind ero- the state's food industry and the Michigan Department of agency's use of erroneous projections for sion equations, wind erosion was reduced Agriculture in a new initiative this past week to protect dust from various farm operations rather an incredible 80 percent, from 410 tons Michigan consumers from food-borne illnesses. Officially than conducting research and establishing per day to 58 tons per day. dubbed the "Michigan Food Safety Awareness Campaign," actual emission data. A major portion of Probably the most blatant example of Nye says the campaign will focus on consumer education California's agriculture has been operat- an inaccurate estimate, which would have about safe food handling and preparation. ing under stringent emission standards cost the agricultural industry thousands of "It's estimated that as many as 97 percent of all food- under the 1990 Clean Air Act. dollars, was the initial emission projection borne illnesse; are the result of improper handling during Here are a few examples of the ab- used for combustion engines used to drive the preparation stage," Nye said. "The simple rules of food surdities farmers in California have had irrigation pumps. The EPA originally safety should be applied to barbecuing to prevent any to contend with. The EPA originally estimated nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions chance of illness that could spoil a summer meal." R L indicated that alfalfa was disced eight at 626 tons per day from all the pumps in

2. RURAL LIVING. SUMMER 1997 H G A N FAR M BUR E A U

SUM MER 199 7 F EAT U RES

Sunflowers: Bring country life to any garden 4 Do you love bird watching but find the cost of bird seed outrageous? Adding sunny flower faces to your garden decor makes not only a beautiful landscape addition but also creates natural, lO-foot- tall bird feeders.

Family hopes estate planning can protect family heritage 6 Larry and Gloria Crandall fear that if they should die anytime soon, the federal estate taxes would cost so much that their three children would have to sell some of the farm just to pay Uncle Sam. And that would hinder their ability to carry on the 114-year-old family business.

Tipsfor vacations on a budget 8 Students aren't the only ones looking forward to summer all year long. If the thought of a tropical getaway,an outdoor adventure, or a historical attraction is what you're dreaming about, you know it's time for a vacation, summer or otherwise.

Revitalized livestock facilities ready to educate 16 There has been a rebirth of sorts across the campus of Michigan State University thanks in large part to the $70-million Revitalization of Animal Agriculture Initiative which has added new research and teaching facilities throughout the university's southernmost part of campus and revamped the vintage Anthony Hall classrooms and offices.

The Rural Living, Vol. 17, No.3 (ISSN:0743-9962) is published quarterly in the months of January, April, July and October, as a service to associate members, by Michigan Farm Bureau, 7373 West Saginaw Highway, lansing, Michigan 489 J 7. Member subscription price of $1.50 is included in annual dues of Michigan Form Bureau associate members. Additional subscription fees required for mailing Rural living to non-members and outside the cantinental U.SA Periodical poslage paid or lansing, Michigan, and additional mailing offices. letters to the editor and statewide news articles should be sent to: Editor, Rural Living, Post Office Box 30960, lansing, Michigan 48909-8460. POSTMASTER - Send address changes to: Michigan Form Bureau, Post Office Box 30960, lansing, Michigan 48909.8460. Editorial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager; Thomas Nugent, Associate Editor. Design and Production: Don Stiles. Contributor: Sue Sluever Bollel. Advertising Sales Representative: Joshua Merchant Officers: President, Jock laurie, Cass City; VICe President, Wayne Wood, Marlette; Third Member, Tom Guthrie, Delton; Administrative Director, Chuck Burkel!; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Tom Parker; Secretory, David VanderHoogen. Directors: District 1, Jim Miller, Coloma; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Michael Fusilier, Manchester; District 4, Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Alan Garner, Mason; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlelle; District 7, Rick Johnson, leroy; District 8, Don Sullo, Saginaw; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City; District 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District 11, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. Al-l.arge: Jock Lourie, Cass City; Faye Adam, Snover; Jon Vosburg, Climax; Judy Emmons, Sheridan. Promotion and Education, Merlann Keinath, Deckerville; Young Farmers, Jeff Horning, Manchester.

MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU. 3 Sunflowers: Bring country life to any garden and the oUtdoors to your kitchen table by Kara Endsley days, depending upon flower variety. o you love bird watching but find The sunflower beauty can be cap- Dthe cost of bird seed outrageous? tured into the winter months through Adding sunny flower faces to your garden drying. Sunflowers can be dried by sim- decor makes not only a beautiful land- ply hanging the heads upside down in a scape addition but also creates natural, warm, dry place. 1O-foot-tall bird feeders. Sunflower seed lovers can create their The sunflower's raging popularity is own snack food from confectionery variet- due in part to new varieties created to ies. Simply soak dried seeds in a strong salt suit any gardener's taste. From 12 inches water solution overnigh~ then drain and to 10 feet, sunflowers can be planted in roast them on a cookie sheet at 2001' for pots, along patio walkways and as living three hours or until crisp. R L screens between properties. Pollen less flowers can be used in bouquets and cut flower arrangements. The sunflower is no longer a giant black-eyed susan. They come in soft shades, earthy tones and bright eye- catchers. Petals range from creamy yel- low to banded gold, burgundy, bicolored bronze, yellow and orange. Growing sunflowers is easy even for the horticulturally challenged. They're drought-resistant and come in varieties suited for all climate zones. Sunflowers .~ flourish in most soil types, but well- drained and fertile soils are ideal. They should be planted in mid-to late May when soil temperatures reach approximately lOr: Seeds can be planted every two weeks, creating a continuous bloom through the sum- mer. Bloom occurs within 65 to 80

4eRURALLIVINGeSUMMER 1997 50 Legendary Songs Of The Old West From out of the Golden West we bring you a giant memory-stir- SADDLE AGAIN, TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, CA TTLE ring treasury of unforgettable cowboy favorites. Here are CALL, THE LAST ROUNDUP and TWILIGHT ON THE TRAIL. America's beloved singing cowboys with all the romantic west- Legends like Gene Autry, Tex Ritter, Rex Allen and the Sons ern songs that helped build the legends of the Old West. of the Pioneers will serenade you with their plaintive harmonies Settle back and close your eyes - hear the jingle of spurs and and the easy rhythms of the trail. Imagine having all the great the gentle c1ippity-clop of horses on the range as the famous western stars of radio and the movies right in your own home. cowboys of yesteryear bring you 50 classics like BACK IN THE It's a goldmine of musical memories. Be sure to order now. The Cowboy Music Treasury That's Sweeping America On TV! I'm Back In The The Shifting Empty Saddles Blue Yodel Saddle Again Whispering Sands Sons Of The Pioneers ("T" Is For Texas) Gene Autry Jim Reeves My Little Jimmie Rodgers Tumbling Tumbleweeds Whoopie Ti Yi Yo Cherokee Maiden Deep In The Heart Sons Of The Pioneers (Get Along Little Doggies) Bob Wills Of Texas Cattle Call Sons Of The Pioneers Down In The Valley Bob Wills Eddy Arnold When It's Springtime Slim Whitman Jealous Heart Bury Me Not On The In The Rockies EI Rancho Grande Tex Ritter Lone Prairie Montana Slim Gene Autry Take Me Back To My Tex Ritter Nobody's Darlin' South Of The Border Boots And Saddle New San Antonio Rose But Mine Patsy Cline Jimmy Wakely Bob Wills Jimmie Davis Old Shep Have I Told You The Last Roundup Mexicali Rose Red Foley Lately That Rex Allen Jim Reeves I Love You I'm Thinking Tonight Gene Autry Cool Water The Streets Of Laredo Of My Blue Eyes Marty Robbins Sons Of The Pioneers The Carter Family Twilight On The Trail Sons Of The Pioneers Riders In The Sky Pistol Packin' Mama The Prisoner's Song Vaughn Monroe AI Dexter Vernon Dalhart You Are My Sunshine Jimmie Davis High Noon Don't Fence Me In Along The Navajo Trail Tex Ritter Bing Crosby Sons Of The Pioneers That Silver-Haired Daddy Of Mine Someday You'll Goodnight Irene Sioux City Sue Gene Autry Want Me To Want You Ernest Tubb & Red Foley Bing Crosby Elton Britt I Want To Be A Beautiful, Beautiful Wagon Wheels Sons Of The Pioneers Mule Train Cowboy's Sweetheart Brown Eyes Frankie Laine Patsy Montana Jimmy Wakely Happy Trails Roy Rogers & Dale Evans Home On The Range I'm An Old Cowhand Red River Valley Gene Autry Patsy Montana Slim Whitman AND MORE!

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he house, the yard, the barns, the of inflation and development, causing said, summing up her family's situation. Tfarm records - all in perfect or- land prices to skyrocket right under- While federal law allows for a $600,000-per-person ex- der. After all, Larry and Gloria neath them. emption from the estate tax, it isn't enough to protect the Crandall are not the kind of people to The farm was passed along to Larry family. "We're over the exemption," Larry Crandall said. leave things to chance. Crandall's grandfather, then to his father, In anticipation of the future, they have done some heavy- It's that attention to detail and then to him, with no estate tax troubles. duty estate tax planning in hopes of avoiding ever having to careful planning that the Crandalls "The inventory was never great sell land upon someone's death. They hold living trusts and hope will help protect their centennial enough up until this generation to be a invest in a retirement plan. An attorney recommended non- farm for future generations. But they problem, and that's due to inflation and revocable trust insurance, which the named beneficiaries may fear that if they should die anytime economic growth," he said. "It's amaz- use to payoff death taxes. Brad is beginning to build equity in soon, the federal estate taxes would ing how fast your equity builds. The the cattle and machinery to allow for a smooth transition. cost so much that their three children equity isn't so much in our buildings, it's "If you are going to keep everything in the family, you would have to sell some of the farm in the increased cost of farm equipment have to inherit it - you can't afford to buy it," Brad said. just to pay Uncle Sam. And that would we've had to replace and the land that's "If you have to sell it, then you can't be in business any- hinder their ability to carry on the just growing under us." way." 114-year-old family business. The estate tax is leviedon the value of "We're going to gift things over as quickly as possible," The Crandalls milk 220 holsteins all assets,so while some farmers may LarryCrandall said of his children. They'll take advantage of and farm 800 acres with their 26-year- appear to hold a great deal ofwealth on the $lO,OOO-per-yeargift tax exemption. "We'll transfer equity old son, Brad. Another son, 20-year-old paper,it's all tied up in land. as fast as wecan and keep enough of a base to live on," he said. Mark, hopes to join the family opera- Developers in the Crandalls' area "With our facility, it's old and it's paid for," Crandall tion upon graduation from Michigan would willingly pay upwards of $2,000 continued. "We have very little debt." That such a carefully f < State University. They make the fourth an acre for land, a severely inflated run business could be taxed right out of existence seems generation of Crandalls on this land. price. incredibly unfair to him. Larry Crandall's great grandfather "It's unreal how the prices have "We need to reduce capital gains and increase the ex- settled in the area north of Battle Creek gone for land," Gloria Crandall said. emption for estate taxes," Crandall said, emphasizing the in 1883. He settled within a mile of St. "When you look at what you paid for importance of agriculture to the economy and welfare. Mary's Lake, now a popular spot for things and the value now, it's scary." "We're not asking for special privilege." new home construction. Like fellow "We're trying to make a living off If the federal estate tax isn't reformed, and soon, Larry farmers across the nation, the the land that's here, trying to make a Crandall and his family aren't sure what will become of the Crandalls have experienced the effects living for the next generation," she Continued on page 7

6-RuRALLIVING-SUMMER 1997 Family hopes estate planning can protect family heritage Continued on page 6 business they've worked so hard to build. "Wecan't afford to die," he said. R L mericans had to'delve a little demand. "These numbers surprise me A deeper into their walletsto pay for a little." foodduring the second quarter of 1997, Of the 16 items on the survey, nine according to the American Fann Bureau increased in price. A 10-ounce box of Federation's MarketbasketSurvey.The cereal cost $2.70, a 12-cent increase. average price of selectedgroceryitems Other increases included apples, $1 per jumped 36 cents from the year's first pound, up 9 cents; potatoes, $1.46 per quarter. 5-pound bag, up 5 cents; flour, $1.43 The 16 selected items on the survey per 5-pound bag, up 5 cents; cheddar cost $32.64, up from the first quarter's cheese, $3.15 per pound, up 4 cents; $32.28 figure. It marks the second vegetable oil, $2.19 per 32-ounce jar, consecutive increase in the average up 3 cents; and corn oil, $2.41 per 32- price since the 52-cent drop during ounce jar, up 2 cents. Michigan Form Bureau President Jock Lourie shows the last year's fourth quarter. Apound of whole fryers dropped 10 hundreds of letters he delivered to Washington, D.c., This quarter's average follows a cents to 94 cents, the largest decline in on July 14, as port of a nationwide push to "Kill the trend that has occurred since the sur- the survey. Other decreases included Death Tax." Michigan farmers wrote the letters to their vey began in 1989. In all but one year, eggs, 96 cents per dozen, down 8 cents; congressmen urging repeal of the federal estate tax. the average price of the survey items mayonnaise, $2.61 per 32-ounce jar, increased during the second quarter. down 8 cents; white bread, $1.13 per Farm Bureau members Terry Francl, a senior economist 20-ounce loaf, down 7 cents; whole support IIKi// the Death with the American Farm Bureau Fed- milk, $2.46 per gallon, down 5 cents; ll eration, believes the higher prices re- and ground chuck, $1.65 per pound, Tax campaign flect the market's anticipation of the down 5 cents. In the campaign to repeal the estate tax or death tax, summer cooking season. The survey Apound of bacon remained un- Michigan Fann Bureau members rallied around the call to was conducted just prior to the Memo- changed at $2.36. write their U.S.senator or representative- so much so rial Day weekend, the busiest grilling- AFBF,the nation's largest general that over 2,100 individual letterswerewritten and delivered out weekend of the year. farm organization, with more than 4.7 to Washington, D.C.,by MFBPresidentJack Laurie onJuly "The higher prices could be the million members, conducts its infor- 14.The Killthe Death Tax campaign is being conducted by result of the anticipated demand," said mal quarterly Marketbasket Survey to everystate Fann Bureau and resulted in thousands of letters Francl. "But that anticipation was not help track retail food prices to ensure from Fann Bureau members across the nation being deliv- fulfilled by virtue of the lousy weather they are in line with prices received by ered to Congressto addressthe growing problem that is throughout the country. Consequently, the nation's farmers and ranchers. decimating farms across the country. R L the great grilling-out weekend of Me- While most grocery prices have in- morial Day turned out to be less than creased during the past year, the farm- spectacular." Chilly temperatures dur- ers' and ranchers' share remains fairly ing Memorial Day weekend frustrated steady. The farm value of each food many would-be outdoor chefs. dollar spent in the United States is Aone-pound package of pork chops approximately 22 cents. Labor, at 37 and a one-pound sirloin tip roast rep- cents, is the largest component of the resented the largest increase on the consumers' food dollar. survey. The price of pork chops in- Volunteershoppers from 34states creased 21 cents to $3.31 per pound. A participated in this latest survey in mid- pound of sirloin cost $2.87, a 17-cent May.The average total price of this quar- hike. "If you did the numbers now, you ter is only $4.14 higher than the $28.50 may get a lower number, especially on average price of the inaugural survey the beef," said Francl, who said the conducted in 1989.That averages into increased prices could reflect super- just a 49-cent increase in prices per year markets establishing prices for holiday over an 8'/2-year span. R L

MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU. 7 Hauptschein, President and CEO of Michigan Live. "They'll be look- ing for the ho~t fishing hol~, the fas~t detours, and the most charming B&Bs. All this information, updated daily, can be easily found at Michigan Live." Michigan Live is a comprehensive Web site featuring news and information about Michigan people, places, and things to do. Michigan Livefeatures daily, local news, sports, entertainment, gam~, weather, talk and more. It's available free to anyone with Internet access at http) /www.mlive.com/travel R L An online Michigan Tipsfor vacations on a budget Students aren't the only on~ looking forward to summer all travel and outdoor' guide year long. If the thought of a tropical getaway, an outdoor adven- as big as the state ture, or a historical attraction is what you're dreaming abou~ you know it's time for a vacation, summer or otherwise. ichigan Live has launched the reation qu~tions answered by the pros. For consumers who are struggling to make ends mee~ paying Mstate's most comprehensive • Achance to win an all-expense-paid for a vacation may seem like an impossible dream. If it's too late online travel and outdoor guide covering getaway to the magnificent Grand Hotel for this summer, start planning for another year. With careful plan- recreation from Detroit to Copper Harbor. on historic Mackinac Island. ning, most consumers will be able to afford a getaway vacation, The guide features continually updated • A comprehensive directory of camp- according to Carol Kurth, education coordinator for Credit Coun- Michigan recreation news, infonnation grounds, B&Bs, wineri~, marinas, f~ti- seling Centers, Inc., a nonprofit family financial counseling agency and fun, including: vals and events, searchable by preferred affiliated with the National Foundation for Consumer Credit. • Michigan's fin~t interactive, electronic location. "Too often people return from an enjoyable vacation to find postcard service. Users can send personal- • The la~t fishing, hunting, boating, hik- unmanageable bills awaiting their return," says Kurth. "Instead of ized greetings on originally d~igned ing, camping and biking news by charging everything for a vacation, we recommend that people ~lichigan postcards to friends and family Michigan's favorite travel and outdoors budget and save in advance. Using this method, they'll knowex- across the globe. writers. actly how much money they can spend and will be able to enjoy • Exclusive online chat with Michigan's • AAATravel Report providing details on their vacation free of financial worri~." In a MasterCard Interna- foremost travel and outdoors experts, Jim road construction, detours and gas pri~. tional study, the average American's vacation budget is $1,806 this Dufreme and Bob Gwizdz. Users can get "All summer, millions of people will year with seniors slightly higher. While this is a lot of money, 58 all their hunting, fishing, travel and rec- travel the Great Lak~ State," says Mark percent keep a budget for vacation. Good news! Here are three steps to follow for budget-minded travelers: Step # 1: Plan in Advance }:::'~ 't ta}{j et h d • Figure your budget - As soon as possible, sit down :( ::::.:~ii~i~;::~:::::::;:::}\::.n e I SO ar ... and look at your budget. If you don't have one, create .:.:..: Physics softens your water one by tracking your income and expenses. The budget helps you know how much money you have available like lightening treats the rain for travel. without electricity, salt or chemicals - for city or weD water SOPhTec Water Conditioning System for HOME & AGRI- • Research vacation offers - Visit the library and CULTURE. Controls hardness, calcium scale and corrosion. check out travel gui~ or... do some research on the Removes existing scale. Helps control sulfur odor. Saves energy costs. Installs easily. Maintenance and service free. Use 50% less Internet. One site for budget-minded travelers is http}/ soaps and detergents. SoPhTec water conditioning system makes hard water act like soft water. www.yahoo.com/Recreationlfravel BudgeLTravel. Most Other Applications state offi~ of tourism and local chambers of commerce Farms Greenhouses Irrigation Systems Dairies offer free vacation planning guid~. SoPhTec water conditioning system extends equipment life. Prevents scale Step #2: Consider the Options build-up, clogging of lines, fixtures and equipment. Safe for soil, plant life and animals. • Set prioriti~ - For some people, staying on the SoPhTec is a cost effective alternative to a salt water system. Total sys- tem cost for the home is $359 plus $8.50 shipping. A 90 day money-back beach is very important; others don't mind a short guarantee plus a ten year warranty. walk or ride. Decide what aspects of the vacation are To place your order or to receive more information, call or write: CARL KNIGHT really important to your family and pay extra for SoPhTec Distributor them. Cut comers of lesser priority. 4860 Quarry Lane. Cleveland, OH 44143 • Be creative - Consider vacationing with another TOLL FREE 1-800-708-2872 family. Sharing faciliti~ sav~ money on lodging, www.sophtec-water.com travel, and food preparation. Or, plan a day trip or weekend getaway instead. Short trips can be more Continued on page 10

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Tips for vacations on a budget date and no later than three months after. • Other vacation tips are available in the "Money & You" Continued from page 8 money each week or pay period, you newsletter from the National Foundation for Consumer economical than the traditional week- will be able to fund the majority of Credit. For a free copy of this newsletter, contact the Educa- long vacation. Check out campgrounds, your vacation with savings. Get the tion Department, Credit Counseling Centers, Inc., 38505 state parks and fun activities nearby. whole family into the act by saving Country Club Dr., Suite 210, Farmington Hills, MI 48331 or • Shop around - Airline and hotel rates and rolling change and putting that call (248) 553-5400. R L vary dramatically. Be sure to ask for the into the "vacation fund." lowest rate and discounts available. If • Plan how you will use credit cards - you travel at off-peak times or stay in a Taking along a credit card on a vaca- room without a scenic view, you can tion makes good sense. Credit cards realize substantial savin~. reduce the need to carry large Step #3: Decide How To Pay amounts of cash and ease the reserva- • Evaluate your payment options - tion process for hotel rooms and Decide how you will pay for your va- rental cars. However, you should cation. If you decide to get a loan, guard and use your credit cards care- shop around for the lowest rate. fully! Be sure to plan to payoff the • Start saving now - Set up a special balance accumulated by your vaca- vacation fund. By putting away some tion by the credit card statement due

10 • R u, R ALL I V I N G • 5 U M MER 1 9 9 7 A HEALTH AND WELLNESS PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU HEAlTHHARVEST Do you know what your kids are eating?

controlling children's food intake may actually contribute to childhood obeiity. To determine if children can self- regulate their calorie intake, researchers . fed preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years a high- ... or low-calorie fruit-flavored drink and then allowed the children to eat as much as they liked for lunch. Calorie intake during lunch was measured and infor- mation was obtained on the children's body fat stores and on parents' body fat, of their meals away from home com- dieting and child-feeding practices. pared to 18 percent for preschoolers. For The preschoolers with more control- preschoolers, 42 percent of away-from- ling parents were less able to adjust home meals come from fast-food estab- their food intake in response to the ca- oday, children are eating out more often and at a lishments, whereas for school-aged chil- loric content of the drinks and had greater variety of places than ever before. As a result, dren, schools provide the largest higher body fat stores than the pre- Tparents and caregivers may have less control over the percentage of away-from-home meals schoolers of parents who were more quality of foods their children eat. An important question is (36 to 43 percent). flexible in their child-feeding practices. whether eating away from home improves or worsens kids' Foods that kids eat away from home Coercive child-feeding practices, such as nutrient intake. The answer to this and other questions related tend to be higher in total and saturated insisting that children eat only at meals to what, where and how much kids eat can be found in a new fat and lower in calcium, iron, fiber, rather than when hungry, or finish all government report. This report is based on data compiled from cholesterol and sodium than foods con- the food on their plate, interferes with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 1989-91 Continuing Sur- sumed at home. School meals are higher children's ability to self-regulate their vry of Food Intakes by Individuals and the companion Diet in calcium and fiber and lower in so- calorie intake. Also, restricting and Health Knowledge Survry. Major findings for children dium than meals at fast-food establish- children's access to palatable foods or aged two to 17 years follow: ments, restaurants and other away-from- forcing children to eat "nutritious" Children consume on average 4 percent more total fat, home sites (e.g., vending machines and foods to obtain rewards may foster 3 percent more saturated fat and 23 percent more sodium recreation places). children's preferences for energy-dense than the recommended intake, whereas calorie and fiber Snacks provide about 15 percent of total foods high in sugar, fat and salt. intakes are below the recommended levels. calories for children. Older children eat a Genetic and environmental factors Only 16 percent of teenage girls meet the recommended higher proportion of snacks from away- influence children's eating behavior. intake for calcium, compared to 43 percent of children two from-home sources than younger children. Among environmental influencei, parents' through 17 years. More than half of all children eat own eating and dieting history and their Teenage girls' low calcium intake may be related to their three meals a day. Skipping morning or attitudes and behaviors relating to child eating habits. COqIpared to other children, teenage girls are midday meals increases with age. Teenage feeding can impact children's food intake more likely to skip morning meals, which are high in calcium; girls consume the fewest number of meals. and risk of obesity.While genetic p~i- eat the fewest number of meals and snacks; consume the high- Children "know" how much tion cannot be changed, parents and est proportion of meals and snacks away from home, which they need to eat caregivers can play an important role in tend to be low in calcium; and drink the least amount of fluid Fear that their children may Ixmme creating an environment inwhich children milk, a major source of calcium. overweigh~ along with the belief that chil- develop food amptance patterns conducive Fiber and iron are other nutrients limited in teenage girls' diets. dren are incapable of regulating their own to health. Parents should provide children Children consume about one-quarter of their meals away food intake, leads many conscientious with a wide variety of nutritious foods, but from home. Older children are more likely than younger chil- parents to strictly control their children's children should be allo\\ffi to control the dren to eat away from home. Female teens eat about 30 percent food intake. Yetresearch demonstrate; that amount of food they eat R L HEALTH HARVEST Check your servI-S-siae IQ o coax us into eating right, the Tgovernment's official Food Guide Pyramid suggests that we plan our diets by the numbers. So here's your daily meal plan: two to three servings of cheese, milk or yogurt; two to three of meat; three to fiveof vegetables; two to four of fruit; and six to 11 of bread, cereal, rice or pasta. It's definitely a well-rounded diet. But does anyone have a clue about just how much food equals one of those perfect portions? Do you know how your own meals are stacking up? Take the quiz below to check your serving- size IQ. 1. How many cherries add up to a fruit serving? a.15 b. 20 c. 35 2. A serving of pasta would fill: a. an ice cream scoop b. a cereal bowl 3. A sirloin steak the size of a paperback book is how many servings? a. two b. three c. four 4. When you spread peanut butter thickly on a slice of bread, as in the TV commercials, how many servings is that? a. one-third

b. two-thirds II 1/i;'~ "fit" in, c.one ANSWERS: three servings is actually,higl,1. D6nJforget that ~e official , 5. Women are advised to have no more 1. (a) Aheaping handful-IS "meatgroup" ~ncludeS'beanS. l, " ' , than two servings of alcohol a day. cherries - amounts to a serving that 4. (a) Athick slbe,arofpeanut butter is abOut two table- How many come in a bottle of wine? totals just 75 fat-free calories. Have spoons -which, the goveinmen't calls a third of a serving. W a. six another handful, then add a banana Why? Nuts, too, got lumped in the weat group (they~rehigh b. eight and a small glass of orange juice and in protein and fat), and experts say your peanut butter sm~ c. ten you're up to four. counts as anouncel of meat. Gust don't eat too much.) 6. An ounce-and-a-half of cheddar 2. (a) When a half-cup scoop's a 5. (a) Athird of a'bottle equals two servings of wine. Astan- cheese - one serving - is the size of: serving, it's not hard to pile up dard "glass" isfour ounces, althc:mghsome restaurant goblets a. one domino enough pasta to hit the daily mini- hold as much as ten. That's two servings ... and then some. b. two dominoes mum of six starchy foods. That's just 6. (c) Three dominoes' worth of cheese isn't a lot. Atypi- c. three dominoes one large plate of spaghetti. cal chef's salad has six, two of your day's three dairy servings. 7. Enough broccoli to hit your daily 3. (b) The sanctioned serving size Add a cup of yogurt and a cup of milk - one serving each - vegetable ideal would fill how many for beef, pork, chicken and fish is and you could be over the top. cups? three ounces, the size of a deck of 7. (b) To reach the daily minimum of three servings, a.one cards. Because meat's a big source of you'd need to eat just a cup-and-a-half. Even with healthful b. one-and-a-half saturated fa~ however, a daily total of vegetables, the government makes its portions small. R L c. two

12.~URALLIVING.SUMMER 1997 HEALTH HARVEST

INSECTS take a bite out of Healthy summer plans Hopefor snorers Atechnique that shrinks exre;s soft tissue around the upper airway (includ- ing the tongue, roof of the mouth and nose) may eventually offer a n~way to treat sleep apnea, a disorder that causes he summer season brings picnics, people to stop breathing while they Tboating and hiking, but along with Better bones,fewer sleep. In a study published in Chest, fractures these fun activities goes the danger of Stanford researchers describe how they insect bites. Here are some ways to treat The drug shrunk pigs' tongues using a wandlike instrument that emits radio the results of an insect bite: Fosamax waves. The special needle elff:trode rela}"3radio frequency energy to To treat a mosquito bite: (alendronate nearby cells, destroying them. Scar tissue created by the healed • Remove the stinger if possible. sodium) not lesion takes up less space. Preliminary tests in people suggest the • Clean sting area to prevent infection. only slows method can diminish heavy snoring - one of the classic signs of • Apply calamine lotion or a cortisone bone loss in sleep apnea - by shrinking tissue on the roof of the mouth. The n~ cream to lessen the itching. people al- method is quick, relatively painless, and doesn't require a hospital To treat a bee sting: ready diag- stay - unlike some treatments for sleep apnea, which include cut- • Rem9ve the stinger as quickly as you nosed with ting or burning away extra tissue with a scalpel or laser. Further tests can. The longer a bee's stinger is in osteoporosis, but also can be used pre- are under way to verify the procedure's safety and effroiveness. R L your skin, the more you'll hurt. • Wash the area with soap and water. ventively to keep bone loss and fractures Ice cream headache from occurring in the first place, the FDA Apply an ice pack for 15 minutes to ruled in late April. An ongoing study of As ice cream lovers know, wolfing down minimize swelling and relieve pain. about 1,600 post-menopausal women a coneful or guzzling an icy cold drink To treat a tick infestation: showed that Fosamax stopped bone loss can bring on a sudden, stabbing pain in • Remove the tick from your skin. If it and built additional bone mass, while the head, usually around the middle of has buried itself underneath your skin, those taking a dummy drug lost bone the forehead. These so-called ice cream try to remove it with tweezers. over a two-year period. A second, larger headaches usually go away within 20 • When removing the tick, make sure study found that women who took seconds, though they can last up to five that you remove all of the body. Fosamax reduced their risk of hip and minutes, according to a short report in the British Medical • Be careful not to squeeze the tick as spinal fractures by about half. Estrogen journal. If you're prone to the problem, here's a tip: Keep cold you remove it, because this may re- also prevents and treats osteoporosis, but foods and drinks from contacting the back of the roof of your lease bacteria into your bloodstream. Fosamax is the only non-hormone treat- mouth, since that's the most sensitive area when it comes to trig- • After you've removed the tick, alcohol ment available. R L gering these headaches, says the author. R L should be applied on the spot. R L

day for at least a month to see results. It takes more work than you may think to eat this much extra food every day. Sometimes people need to eat six or more times a day to fit all of the food in, so that may mean eating a snack before bed. But it's not just the bedtime snack that makes the difference. Another thing to consider when try- ing to gain weight is physical activity. Research has shown that people who do moderate weight training (and keep their calories high) are more successful with gaining weight in the long run. They also gain more muscle than fat. R L by Vicky Ferguson, RD

MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU. 13 HEALTH HARVEST Medical Focus Evaluating melanoma risk ait beachgoers know packing moles, it doesn't alwa}S; in many cases, it Ma bottle of sunscreen and a broad- arises from a mole that ~ nonnal or brimmed hat is at least as important as from an area of skin with no moles. And bringing the beach to~ls. But while aware- d}splastic moles occur so often in such a large neiS of the hazards of sunbathing is on the nwnber of people without a family history of rise, the incidence of sun-related skin can- melanoma - about 30 ~rcent of the popula- cers is skyrocketing, as well. By 2000, the tion has them - that it isn't clear that the;e lifetime risk of developing malignant mela- atypical moles have any direct link with mela- noma, the mait dangerous fonn of skin noma at all outside of FAMM. cancer, will be one in 75, the American Acad- This study still doesn't entirely fffiOlve emy of Dennatology estimate;. That's the debate about whether melanoma arises double the risk of just a dozen years ago. directly from d}splastic nevi. The researchers For people who tend to develop a lot of didn't look at whether patients with d}splas- moles, the odds may be greater. Astudy in tic moles developed melanoma directly from the journal of the American Medical A.w- tha;e moles. They studied patients already dation of more than 700 people diagna;ed with melanoma who, it turns ou~ did have with melanoma and 1,000 healthy volun- more d}splastic and nonnal moles than C Color D Diameter teers found just one atypical, or d}splastic, people without melanoma. This suggests a mole doubles the risk, and 10 or more in- link between dysplastic moles, increased The ABeD key is a way to remember the warning signs of crease 12-fold the chances of developing the numbers of moles, and a higher risk of melanoma. See a doctor if a mole shows the characteris- disease. Moles the researchers considered melanoma, but it doesn't show that d}splas- tics in the bottom photo of each pair. troublesome ~re flat or partially flat, larger tic nevi turn into melanoma. What it does That way, you can tell more easily if a mole has changed or than 5 millimeters (about the size of a ~n- show clearly is that people with many moles grown - probably the mait important warning signs of melanoma. dl eraser), and varied in color, with irregular - are at a higher risk for melanoma. And Moles may become elevated, change color, or become asymmetrical borders or mismatched halves. large moles confer a greater risk than small (the two halves don't match). In addition, any skin growth that Surprisingly, small moles also appear ones. bleeds or crusts should be looked at by a doctor. Abnonnal moles are to raise melanoma risk if you have a That said, the quantity and size of also marked by four key characteristics: multitude of them . moles shouldn't be the only factors you take • Asymmetry • Color variation The physician's perspective into account in evaluating your risk of • Border irregularity • Diameter larger than 6 mm - Gary Rogers, MD melanoma. The mait important risk factor Moles that are of concern may have borders that are notched or The idea that certain types of moles by far is family history. Some data suggest irregular, or part of a mole may be elevated or a different color from (nevi) might develop into melanoma has the risk may be up to 20 times as high if a the rest Color variations range from black to red, blue or white. been around for some time, but dennatolo- family member has had the disease. If a mole exhibits any of the;e warning signs, see a doctor for an gists disagree about their significance. There Other risk factors include having fair evaluation. In the early stages, when the skin lesion is 1 mm thick or is general agreement that large, atypical skin, blond or red hair, and blue eyes. People leiS, melanoma has a 95 percent cure rate. By comparison, when moles in people with a strong family history who sunburn easily and never or rarely tan lesions reach 4 mm thick, the five-year sUlvivai rate is just 35 ~rcent of melanoma can turn into cancer. This is are twice as likely to develop melanoma as Studies suggest that it may take 20 to 30 years from the indting known as the Familial Atypical Mole and people with olive complexions who seldom sunburn to develop melanoma, so sun protection is especially impor- Melanoma (FAMM) syndrome. However, the burn. Research also suggests that blistering tant for children and teens. And, although past sun expa;ure is likely significance of d}splastic moles in people and peeling sunburns, especially during to be more important than current exposure, it still makes sense to without a family history is hotly debated. childhood and adolescence, make people use caution. The goal is to enjoy the sun wisely: Some 'M>uld argue that the tenn He¥- more susceptible to melanoma later in life. • Avoid ~ sunlight hours, be~n 11 a.m. and 2 p.rn. plastic mole" - meaning a mole that exhibits People who are at high risk for • Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. abnonnal growth - is a misnomer, since it is melanoma should have an annual • Wear a hat with a brim that keeps the sun off your face and neck. unclear whether these moles are truly skin examination. Even if you're not Gary S. Rogers, MO, is co-director of the Skin Oncology premalignant While it's true that melanoma at high risk, it makes sense to check Program and director of dermatologic surgery at Boston dooi sometimes ~Iop from such unusual your skin regularly. University School of Medicine. R L

14-RuRALLIVING-SUMMER 1997 •

Member Health - Insurance from Michigan Farm Bureau For over 40 years, Farm Bureau and Blue Cross \ Blue Shield have teamed up to provide quality health care at competitive group rates with the , personalized service you would expect from a Farm Bureau membership. No matter what your needs ... small business, sole proprietor, Medicare supplemental or individual coverage for you or your family - ~~~;;~~~~~~~~~~---, 800-292-2680, EXT. 3239 & 3240, OR HAIL THIS COUPON TO: we have the right plan at the right price. MFB HEALTH SERVICES,P.O. BOX 30960, LANSING, HI 48909 Individual/family coverage - for people who don't have employment-based coverage. Small group coverage - for farm and small business owners. Medicare supplemental coverage - for seniors over 65.

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

STATE ZIP ... III TELEPHONE V III \:) LCOUNTY ~

... MICHIGAN THE STATE'S LARGEST , •• FARM BIJREAIJ GENERAL FARM ORGANIZATION system flown in from Sekine,Japan. The instant liquid/solid manure separation is based upon the slope in the bottom floor behind the farrowing crates. The manure from the animals drops onto the concrete slope and the liquid portion drains away in the center groove travels to a separate liquid containment facility. The solid material stays on the concrete slope and is routinely scraped by the automatic system into a separate system and a conveyor takes it to a compost facility for further research. 'We're not going to solve any pro- ducer problems unless we do something differen~" explained Hogberg on the new Japanese manure handling system. "The Japanese have used this type of system for The newly opened Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education will be home to many years with excellent results." agricultural industry activities. It's part of a $70-million effort to improve the state's livestock industry. Acompletely new facility built at the Poultry Research Farm is solely for turkey research. "The key here is the ability to replicate each trial," Hogberg states. 'We Revitalized animal agriculture fadlities will be doing a comparison of different turkey genetic lines comparing growth, ready to educate the next generation health and meat quality. Bil-Mar is very interested in that type of independent testing here has been a rebirth of sorts across the campus of science clubs - Dairy, Block and Bridle, for their company to compare. Michigan State University thanks in large part to the Equestrian and Rodeo Clubs - will also 'We've done some things for turkeys T$70-million Revitalization of Animal Agriculture Initia- have access to four new club rooms and an before in our old facility," he adds. "But tive which has added new research and teaching facilities expanded student area in Anthony Hall. now we can specifically zero in on turkeys throughout the university's southernmost part of campus and When it opens later this year, the new here and give us a niche." revamped the vintage Anthony Hall classrooms and offices. Swine Teaching and Research Center will The Beef Teaching and Research Early in 1997 the jewel of the new facilities - the 187,000- be a ZOO-sowunit with four farrowing Farm also benefited from the livestock square foot Pavilion for Agriculture and Uvestock Education - rooms and four nursery rooms. The admin- initiative with a completely revamped held it's official dedication during the Stallion Expo, but what many istrative area will house classrooms, show- cattle- loading facility and all new electri- producers throughout the state may not realize is the half dozen ers and offices and serve as the employee cal wiring in the buildings. The new load- other facilities built specifically to increase the viability of entrance into the closed facility. ing facility can be operated by one person Michigan's animal agriculture. The most unique part of the new and has a new scale for weighing cattle as Set to open sometime in August, the center for approxi- swine facility is the manure separation they enter and exit the facility. R L mately 50 of the professors in animal science - Anthony Hall will complete its metamorphosis to a state of the art research facility utilizing four new classrooms and two newly revamped auditoriums. The dairy plant directly adjacent to the south end of Anthony has been outfitted with a new second story and the entrance enclosed to both buildings. Directly west of the new Anthony Hall is the newly built meat laboratory. 'We have greatly expanded the meat laboratory to three or four times the space of its 40-year old pred~r," explains Animal Science Department Chair Maynard Hogberg. 'We now will have all these capabilities - slaughter, wholesale cuts and the ability to break it down into further processes and value-added meats." The dairy store will return to its original location, to the de- light of MSU students and visitors. MSU students involved in animal Anthony Hall underwent extensive renovations as part of the initiative.

16. RURAL LIVING. Su M M ER 1997 • Proposed Bylaw charge cmutII IlAIE TIME & LOCATION c.o.um IlAI.E TIME & LOCATION Allegan Sept 25 630 p.m., Harnitton Reformed Church , Northwest Sept 24 630 p.m., Twin Lakes 4.H Camp 'Jmrim (kt8 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meeting, Kewadin Untted Methodist Church Oakland (kt 16 630 p.m., Clartston UMed Methodist Church, 6600 Waklon Rd, Clarkston , Arenac Sept 9 7 p.m., Orner Community Center , Oceana (kt 20 630 p.m. reception, 7 p.m. dmer, New Shelby Cafetorium, Shelby BallJ Sept 15 6 p.m. reg~tration, 630 dinner with meeting to follow, Barry Expo Center , Ogema. lkl23 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meeting, Ogemaw Cou~ ~rgrounds Bay Sept 9 6 p.m. dinner, Monitor Township Haa, 2483 E. MidlaOORd, Bay City Osceola (kt 21 730 p.m. dinner, 830 p.m. meelirg, Reed City High School Cafeteria Benzie Sept 22 630 p.m. dinner, 745 p.m. meeting, Sail Inn Restaurant, Benzonia , Otsego (kt 19 130 p.m., Uvingslon Township HaD Berrien Sept 4 8 p.m., poIq development & business mtg, S.w. Mich~ Research & Extension Ottm Sept 9 630 p.m. social, 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meeting, ABendale Christian School Center, Benton Harbor , Presque Isle (kt 14 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meelilg, Motlke Township Haft , Brancll Se~15 630 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meeting, Braoch Area Career Center, Coldwater , Sagina. Sept 17 6 p.m. dinner wi meeting to laDow, Swan VaDeyBanquet Center, Saginaw , Calhoun Sept 23 630 p.m. reception, 7 p.rn. diMer, Bekher Auction Facili~, MarsIiaII Sl Clair Aug 26 6 p.m. reception, 6:30 p.m. dinner, Wahdams Banquet Center, Kimball 'Cm Se~16 630 p.m. social, 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. mtg, Southwestern Michigan CoDege, Dowagiac • SI. Josepb (kt 25 630 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. mee~. Sturges Young Audttorium, Sturg~ , Charlno~ Se~27 6 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. meelirg, Whiting Park, Boyne City , Sanilac Sept 10 630 p.m., Sanilac Cou~ Career Center, 175 East Mken Road, Peck Cheboygan lkt 13 630 p.m., VFW Hall, 001 VFW Road, creboygan Shimssee (kt 1 6 p.m. social, 7 p.m. dimer, 8 p.m. mtg, ZCBJHall, 1775 E. (Mosso Aw, (NIosso 'Chippm lkt 7 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meeting, Bruce Township Hall, Dafter Tuscola Sept 4 630 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meelirg, Kn~htsof Columbus Hall, Caro , Clare Sept 25 530 social, 630 dinner, Harrison ~hts of Columbus Hall • Van Buren (kt 28 630 p.m. social, 7 p.m. dinner, VFW HaD, Decatur (Annual Meelirg) Clinton Sept 20 or 27 St Johns High School (kt21 730 p.m., Van Buren Co. Farm Bureau BIdg, Paw Paw (Poficy DMloprnent Mtg) (confirm in Aug) Washlena. (kt 9 6 p.m. social, 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. mtg, Washlenaw Co. Farm Couool BIdg, Copper Co, (kt 25 7 p.m., Grandma Grooters Restaurant Ann Arbor , Ealon Sept 30 6 p.m., VFW., CI1ar1otte Wayne (kt 15 6 p.m. reception, 7 p.m. dinner, Woodlands of Van Buren, 39670 Ecorse Rd, Wayoo , Emmel (kt2 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meeting, VFW Hall, Harbor Springs Wexfonl (kt 14 7 p.m. reception, 730 p.m. dinner, Temp~ Hill Baptist Church, , Genesee Sept 16 6 p.m. reception, 630 p.m. dinner, WaDi's East. 1341 S. Center Rd, Burton 1601 W. Division, Cadillac R L , Gladwin Sept 13 1 p.m., Gladwin Ice Carnival Grounds Building, SiDings Township , Gratiot Aug 25 6 p.m. hog roast, 730 p.m. meeting, North Star Golf Course Himthaland lkt27 630 p.m., Terrace Bay Inn. betweelI Gladstone and Escanaba Hillsdale Sept 11 630 p.m. reception, 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. mlg, DOWCool. Center, Hinsdale College , Huron Aug 28 6 p.m. trade exhiMs, 7 p.m. dinner, Ubly Heights Country Club, 2409 E.Atwater, Ubly AMOS ~N~ ANDY Huron Shores lkt4 6 p.m. potluck dinner, St Matthews, 7109 Wolf Creek Rd., Herron 'Ingham Sepl25 630 p.m..rece~on~m. dinner, Ingham Co. F~rgrounds' Community Bdg, Ionia Aug 12 7 p.m., lon~ Cou~ F~rgrounds Insco lkt9 to be announced 'Iron Range (kt 28 6 p.m. CST,Sagola Township Sportsman's Club Isabella Aug 24 1 p.m., Rnnerty Park, BeaI Ci~ Jackson Sept 18 7 p.m., Bullinger's Restaurant, 501 Longfenow Aw., Jackson Kalamazoo (kt7 630 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meelirg, The Birches, 3082 S. 9th St, Oshtemo , KalusU Sept 20 530 p.m., Kalkaska Coun~ Civic Center Vii II 1be Dille" ariI "tofIIau ~'s Vf.ict~ Kent lkt 14 630 p.m. reg., 7 p.m. dinner, Duba's, E. Beltline, Grand Rapids Vii 121be Ki.egIisII SdIs HisL3Dd" m1 '1be~ Show" IJpeer Sept 11 7 p.m. social, 730 p.m. dinner, lapeer Co. V~ Tech Center, 600 lake Pleasant, AlOCa Vii 13'1beH~~" m1"1lt KiDfuiGtlsIAN , Lenawee Sept 16 The landing, 5447 Rogers Hwt, Tecumseh Vii J;t "Geuing M3Ill1).!ri£ (2 ~ 1dI3 0JII!i:lc~) LiYingston (kt8 630 reception, 7 p.m. dinner, Woodshire Place Banquet Facility Mac-luce-Sch (kt4 7 p.m., Amertan Legion, Nel\terry fVi~'Yeskl);r 7cce-;fs~ ;;j;c;;ili~;;! I CaD toD-fl'tf 1.800-243-0987 Opmtor I92J Macomb (kt 18 630 p.m. social, 7 p.m. dinner, Michigan Meadows Go" Course, Casco CaD during Wftkday businessboon (nmr OD Sunday!) , Manistee Aug9 6 p.m., John Urb's Farm, 16919 Pole Rd, Brethren or stud to VideoYNU}ur' Box C Sandy Hook, CT 06482

& , Mason (kt9 630 reception, 7 p.m. dinner, Mason Co Reformed Church, US 10-31 Amber Rd OK: Send me the following side-splitting video C~t1es! Mecnsta (kt 13 7 p.m., New Hope Methodist Church, 7~ 9 Mile Road, Mecosta Q S19.95 Volume #_(1, 2, 3, or 4) Q S29.95 Volumes I & 2 logether ~ Menominee (kt 14 730 p.m. C.SI, Carney Legion Hall, US 41 Q $49.95 All 4 volumes ~~ , Midland Sept 11 630 p.m. dinner, Ingersoll Township Hall, corner of Freeland & Sasst Road (add applicable sales laX plus S.UO shipping &: handling) j My check or money order is enclosed. or "charge il." i Misslune Credil CanI: Exp:__ ~ Monroe Sept 13 600 p.m., Pnnce of Peace Church Community Center, 1920 Lewis Aw., Ida N~: ! Montcalm lkt23 7 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. meet~, Masolt Temp~, 514 N. New Street, Stanton Address: Ii City: Sulte:_Zip __ 0 , Montmorency Sept 30 6 p.m., Montmoreocy Township Hall, 20841 Cou~ Rd 459, HiDman Muskegon (kt7 7 p.m., Whitlow's Forerunner, 4610 Ai~ine Rd, Muskegon Nmno lkt2 730 p.m., Newaygo Co. Senior Resource & Community Center, While Cloud

MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU. 17 et onne(te

Cash in on long-distance savings I I oye with The Farm Bureau Connection

• 8.5( per minute for all in-state calls, 11.9( per minute for all calls anywhere else in the United States, 24 hours a day • Charges are based on six-second increments; if you talk for one minute and six seconds, you pay for one minute and six seconds, not for two minutes as you would with some other compames • Dial-one service with easy access • Free calling cards • Personal 800-numbers are available • Low monthly access fee of $1.50

r------,lETTER OFA(iEN(Y - I choose The Farm Bureaue ConnectlonSMas rrrt primary long-distance provider for the service(s) and telephone number(s) indicated below and I authorize The Farm BureaufJ ConnectionSMto act as my agent by notifying rrrt local telephone company of this choice. I certify that I am legallyresponsible for the payment of charges incurred on the telephone number(s) listed below and that I have the authority to change the prescribed I+ long-distance carrier currendy providing service to these telephone numbers. Further, I recognize that I can have only one primary long-distance company for a given telephone number, that I will no longer be pre-subscribed to my current long-distance carrier's services and that rrrt local telephone company _ MICHIGAN may impose a charge for this and any later change. I also understand that The Farm BureaufJ Connection'sSMname • WI. FARMBIlREAIl will appear on rrrt long-distance billas a result of this switch and that this only affects my I+ long-distance services. I understand that rrrt signature will result in my inuaLATA (where avaiiable),lnterLATA long-distance telecommunications service, interstate and intrastate being provided byThe Farm BureaufJ ConneCtionSM.

THE STATE'S LARGEST Signature: Print Name: Date: GENERAL FARM ORGANIZATION Telephone(s): ( Street Address: MailingAddress (If different from above): 1~-; ;.-0. .I',

MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU. t9 800-number service with a flat rate of 14.7 cents per minute is an attractive option for small businesses. "While many long- distance services bill by full-minute increments, The Fann Bu- reau Connection charges are based on six-second increments," he added. "If you talk for one minute and six seconds, you pay for one minute and six seconds, not for two minutes, as you would with many companies. Your long-distance dollars go farther because you do not pay for unused time." Fleming adds that the personal calling cards are another Cashin on (ORt-distance savings attractive option for members looking to avoid costly surcharges when using other long-distance cards. "The calling cards are with The fann lureau CenneareD issued to all new subscribers and cost only 22.5 cents per minute." New long-distance phone seroice from Farm Bureau "We've done studies throughout the state and we've saved members between $5 and $40 a month on their bill," Fleming re you sick of all the commercials you have grown to expect. Once you sign states. "Whether your monthly bill is $12 or $70, you can save the A and evening phone calls claiming up, you will continue to call just as you value of your membership and more with The Fann Bureau Con- this company offers better long-distance have always done, but instead of your nection." phone rates or that company giving you current long distance carrier, The Fann Accurate billing an incredible deal for your business? Well Bureau Connection will act as your long- "With our accurate billing system," Fleming added, "you Fann Bureau members listen up the distance carrier. will better understand what you are paying for, with the full confi- newest member-only service called The "The Fann Bureau Connection is dence that you are actually using far more of the time you are Fann Bureau Connection just made long truly a valuable new program for Michi- paying for. You will receive a monthly bill from Fann Bureau. It's distance coverage simple 8.5 cents instate gan Fann Bureau members," explained as simple as that." and 11.9 cents nationally no calling Doug Fleming, MFB manager of member How do I sign up? circles and no marketing gimmicks. services. "It cuts through the red tape and Call your county Fann Bureau secretary or Michigan Fann The low rates are made possible by offers a single flat rate of 8.5 cents a Bureau member services at (800) 292-2680, ext. 3235 for a bro- the group purchasing power of Fann minute anywhere, a.iytime in Michigan chure containing an application to simply drop in the mail. Bureau's 4.5 million member families and 11.9 cents anywhere, anytime in the Once you have completed the application to change your nationwide. Michigan Fann Bureau's rest of the United States, with a low long-distance carrier, you will see no change in services, except member services department now offers monthly access fee of $1.50." you can now call that long-lost friend you've been meaning to you the same convenient, one-plus service According to Fleming, the personal call for years. R L

The odor-zapping product worked well enough to take on the odors of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, virtually ick of the stench pet odors can create company. eliminating the odor of the more than 27,000 entries. Livestock Sduring the obnoxious heat of sum- "You dump the litter out, spray manager Steve Woodley "highly recommends the product for mer? How about the smell of not-so- the sides and bottom until they are wet, anyone with animals who has a problem with odors, either in freshly caught fish left in your kitchen? add fresh cat litter to it and just pump the home, stalls or barns." Or try to rid a room of aroma created by spray over the top about every three days "There are two things that set us apart from everything else your guests who enjoy lighting up? This and you'll never have cat litter odors com- in the industry," Gays said. "We have an odor-free product and Michigan-based company could be the ing off your cat litter box again." it is water-based. The best way to get rid of airborne odors still to answer you're looking for. And pet odors aren't all that Nok Out this day, is to either put it in a vaporizer or free-standing hu- For more than two years, Amazing can tackle - Gay explained that base- midifier and let it run." Concepts of Beaverton has been market- ments, carpets, apartments, and bath- An attribution to the success of Nok Out, The Detroit ing a product called Nok Out, a nontoxic, rooms are the other major contributors News ran an article last fall recommending using the prod- odor-free spray that effectively eliminates to the growing use of the product. uct and ever since then its use has skyrocketed. So if you're odors created by pet urine and other "Meat drawers, refrigerators," added sick of catching a whiff of what Spot the dog or Fluffy the smelly sources. And to its credits now are Gay, "your unit went off or your meat is cat left you as a present, order yourself a bottle of Nok Out more than 6,000 mail-order customers rotting in the freezer - what are you going and pretend you have a well-behaved pet. stretching over the span of 40 states and to do? Set a vaporizer inside the door, a Nok Out can be ordered by calling (800) 560-0852. A three countries use the product. one gallon vaporizer full of Nok Out, let it 16-ounce bottle costs $9.95 and a 32-ounce bottle costs 14.95. "When you change the cat litter box," run for about 10 or 15 minutes, open it See Nok Out's ad on the next page to get a discount on the way explained Brian Gay,spoke;person for the up, go on about your business." to ridding your house of its odors! RL

20-RuRALLIVING-SUMMER 1997 Nok-Out Concentrate Deodorizer Is So Effective That 2 DROPS DEODORIZE A SKUNK! Just think of the odor problems Nok-Out could solve for you ... in the HOME or INDUSTRY, BOATS, CARS and PETS Stops Cooking Odors In 15 Seconds

DOES NOT MASK ODORS, BUT DESTROYSTHEM Use in infants rooms (for regurgitation, diaper pails). Use in bathrooms, sickrooms. Use on boats (kills fish odors, use in bilges, in heads). Use in garages, in refrigerators. Use for musty and damp odors in basements and summer homes. Use in outhouses, kitty litter boxes. Wash pets in solution of two drops Nok-Out to a pail of water. Eliminates any odor (including skunk) your pet has picked up. Use on a pet in heat to keep other animals away. Use in central air conditioning systems to keep entire home odor free. One drop in each corner of the room when painting will keep room odor ODORS ARE DRAWN TO NOK-OUT free. An open bottle in the corner of a musty closet keeps They are chemically broken down and eliminated. Odors clothes odor free for a year. are not masked. Nok-Out has no cover-up fragrance. READ HOW COMMERCIAL USERS SOLVE SERIOUS ODOR PROBLEMS iSPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER~ Cars that have had fires and have been repaired are treated with Nok-Out to I I eliminate smoke odor. Acceptance of car is by owner and it must be odor-free. Nok- Total Out handles this big problem easily. IName I - Insurance CD. IAddress I Big trucks can carry leather hides one day and flour (foodstuffs) the next..How do I City, State I they pass inspection? Four drops of Nok-Out in the empty truck for 15 mmutes (even if refrigerator-equipped) and no odor. I Zip I - TruCking CD. Phone Number When the plant was built, no one lived out here. Now it's the center of a communfty. I Order now and save: I Eight bottles of Nok-Out are hung on strings around the plant. So far, no complamts I $.so off from a16oz. bottle I from residents. I $1.00 off from a 320z. bottle I - Municipal Sewsge Treatment Plant, Florida I $1.50 off from a gallon I Nok-Out is used in kitchens and laboratories. Nok-Out has kept these rooms at very I Send to: Neo Products I low or no odor levels. 448 E. OBver Enclosed -Hospital, Bronx, New Yolt L Corunna,MI4881!.. _~I.Ioll Free: 888-9n-484Qj Farm Bureau pleased with road funding package he 4-cent gas tax road funding of funds to our state and ending the 4.3- "It sets the stage to attract more matching dollars, and it sends a T package approved by the state Legis- cent diversion of gas tax dollars to deficit message to D.C. that Michigan's willing to do their part, and now lature is receiving high marks from reduction. " Washington needs to do theirs," he said. Michigan Fann Bureau. The package is Officially known as the Intennodal The biggest roadblock to the state-level funding package expected to generate an additional $300 Surlace Transportation Efficiency Ac~ or focused on the jurisdictional issue between state and local con- million in revenue for road and bridge ISTEA, the program distributes highway trol of some 23,000 miles of Michigan highways. Although the repair. trust funds to states for road repair. Michi- final package approved by the state Legislature removed that "This is definitely good news for rural gan is considered a "donor state," with an portion of the original Engler proposal, the issue is far from re- Michigan and fanners who depend on a 87 percent rate of return on funds. Refonn solved. "The existing distribution fonnula expires in September well-maintained infrastructure to move proponents are seeking at least a $100 of 1998, meaning the state and county road commissions will inputs to the fann and raw commodities million increase in funding to Michigan. have to come to an agreement soon," Goodrich said. to processors, and finished products to the Congress is scheduled to reauthorize While the typical motorist will spend $30 more in fuel taxes, consumer," saidJack Laurie, president of ISTEA this year and, according to Michi- it's estimated they will save $120 in annual car repairs. legisla- the Michigan Fann Bureau. "It's time for gan Fann Bureau Associate Legislative tors also included a $600-per-child income tax credit, an increase our U.S. congressmen to deliver by getting Counsel TIm Goodrich, passage of the in the college tuition tax credit from 4 percent to 7.5 percent, and the necessary refonns to the federal high- state transportation funding package an increase in the personal income tax exemption from $2,500 to way program to improve the rate of return sends a clear signal to Washington, D.C. $2,800. RL I 1997 Michigan••• County and State Fairs

~na County Fair .'., ";=,;,.::,:;'::': Au9L5 -,9, .. m;::::,~~~w.~~t~£~Mt.:.qQ@tYJ( J7:~:1om ":m:g:g .iii:i~t~9M~:~~!~I~~f~!'" Alger County Fair .. Au9...1 • 3 ..mm'Ma'r'q'uette"Coun~"Farr ...... m ... Aug. 6 . 9 Roscommon Coun Fair Board Aug.8.10 ..~ County ~ricu~ral.$.~:' :L,. s.~~~5.'J~lm'll':lll@l!IIIIWl:II!lmllllMi~I~~g.~g~oo~Jl~:tl9~:~1. .~W: Alpena County Agricultural Soc. July 26 . Au.g.2 ... ~is~u.~ee..Fal.m~u..~h..~g.r'.I:~~. Ju~ 28 . Aug. 1 SalineCommunity Fair Sept. 2.6 Antrim Co. Farm& Fami~ Fair.:.i' ..., "Mg.I-1Q;:,' ;,:ml.MQ~[~,~Q~~Y,f~[.~g~' Armada Agricu~ural Society Aug. 12. 17 Montmorency County 4.H FairAssoc. Aug. 13.16 Schoolcraft County FairAssoc. Baraga C~unty Fair ..... , ".;, ..~g). ~10:'" ..,,,,,,,;;;.,.,,;.:,,::,hi.N~~yg'~:~D'~:Mr[;f;'"

Bay County Fair& Youth Expo.. n ... Aug~6.9 ...... Northern District FairAssociation Berrien Co. Youth FairAssoe;,'lrit: ,Aug. 5 -16 . Branch County Ag~1. & Ind'l. Soc. Aug. 3. 9 Calhoun Co.Agr'1. & Ind'l. Soc." Aug. 10 .16 CheboyganCounty Fair July 26 . Aug. 2 ChelseaCommunity Fair Aug. 19.23 : Chip~wa County Fair Aug. 24 . Sept. 1 Chippewa Co.Stalwart Agr'I...F.air.. Sept 4 • 6 . ClareCounty Agricultural Society Ju~ 26 . Aug. 2 Dickinson County Fair Aug. 28 • Sept. 1 The Michigan State Emmet County Fair Aug. 16.24 GeneseeCountyAgr'1. Society Aug. 11 .17 Fair in Detroit, set Gogebic County Fair Aug. 7 . 10 for Aug. 19 through HU/sdale County Agr'1. Soc. Sept. 21 • 27 Sept. 1, provides a Houghton County FairAssoc. Aug. 21 • 24 unique opportunity Hudsonville Community Fair Aug. 18.23 for young and old Huron Community FairAssociation Aug. 3.9 alike to witness the Ingham County Fair July 25 • Aug. 2 birthing process of Ionia FreeFairAssociation July 24 . Aug. 3 modern farm Iron County FairAssociation Aug. 14.17 animals at the Isabella Co.Youth & FarmFairSoc. Aug. 3 .10 Michigan Farm Jackson County Fair Aug. 3 • 9 Bureau/Blue Cross KalamazooCo.Agricu~ural Soc. Aug. 18.23 Blue Shield Kent County 4.H Agricultural Assoc. Aug. 4 • 9 "Miracle of Life" LapeerCounty Agricu~ural Soc. Aug. 4 .10 exhibit. lenawee CountyAgricultural Society Aug. 10.16 Prostate problems affect men physically but affect both men & women emotionally! Most Men Lose Their Sexual Ability Due To Prostate Disorders! If you suspect that your husband or With Extra Strength PROSTAID your male friend may be suffering from a pros- NOW AVAILABLE prostate receives safe, time tested nour- tate problem, then you have to help him. Only 2 Tablets Per Day ishment. One bottle contains 60 tablets It is in your and his best interest for him - one month's supply. It is recommended to be healthy. Most men wait too long GUARANTEED that you try a two month supply since and endure pain too long before seek- Natural Prostate Nutrition your body needs time to gradually and ing help. Prostate problems may ulti- With this enriched formula, you need only naturally let these ingredients work their mately kill them or simply make them im- 2 tablets per day instead of the 3 per day way into your system. Everyone is potent for the rest of their lives. But, there that other companies sell. Our researchers slightly different and the absorbtion time is help for a prostate deficiency with our have also increased the zinc content so that varies from person to person. Full re- 100% natural, enriched nutritional you receive 20 mg. per day and have added sults should occur within 45 to 60 days. suppliment called: Extra Strength 30 mg. of Pan on Ginseng as well as 200 Do You ... Yes No PROSTAID containing a full 100 mg. of mg. of Pygeum Africum. Daily dosage con- ... get up at night to urinate? 0 0 Pygeum Africanum per tablet. tains 200 mg. of Saw Palmetto,30 mg. of Pumpkin Seed Concentrate, 50 mg. Golden ... often have sudden urges to urinate? 0 0 Pygeum Africanum: Road and 3 mg. Flaxseed. Thisis the most ... have a weak urine stream? 0 0 Therapy for Prostate Relief advanced and comprehensive formula ... frequently need to urinate? 0 0 available - and it costs approximately half In both France and Italy, extract of ... have the sensation that you have not Pygeum is recognized for prostate the price of the other products (that are not emptied your bladder completely nearly as strong). The reason: 2 tablets per therapy and is available by prescription. after urinating? o 0 day and not 3 tablets per day. COMPARE Throughout Europe, Pygeum is the pre- ... stop .and start again several times ferred method for treating prostate dis- OUR INGREDIENTS and PRICES with when you urinate? o 0 orders - ranking above surgery . OUR COMPETITORS FORMULA - Younger men are more likely to suffer CHOOSE FOR YOURSELF THE BETTER ... have to push or strain to begin to urinate? 0 prostate infections than BPH. Pygeum (more complete, comprehensive and o is a natural antibiotic, and is ideal for better priced) PRODUCT. treating the infection. Extra Strength PROSTAID is a nutri- Older men who suffer prostate prob- tional suppliment for a man's prostate lems should know that in France, 81 % gland. It is completely guaranteed. To of all prescriptions for BPH treatment receive a refund, simply return the un- contain Pygeum. used tablets and container, a full refund of purchase price (less P&H) will be sent to you. All orders are shipped FIRST Extra Strength PROSTAID contains: CLASS MAIL within 7 working days. To Glycine, L-Alanine & L-Glutamic Acid order, simply fill out the coupon and mail for a total 01.. 406mg. with your check or money order to the Saw Palmetto 300 mg. address below. We also accept VISA or Pygeum Africanum 200 mg. MasterCard (1-800-770-1155). Extra Pumpkin Seed Concentrate 30 mg. Strength PROSTAID is a nutritional suppliment. No medical claims are made Panox Ginseng 30 mg. or implied. Offer void in Mexico, Iowa, Zinc 20 mg.l133% RDA Conn., Europe and Australia. US funds. The daily dosage is only 2 tablets be- only plus $5. extra outside of USA. cause 0 the extra strength formula. I~IWiLLOWSNUTRiTiONCENTER:O;Pt~SP-718 ------1 Zinc Deficiency in Men i~ 179 Post Road West, Westport CT 06880 The prostate gland normally contains i!I I Want Prostate Relief NOW! Print I about ten times more zinc than any other ~ ~I 0 1 Month (60 tabs) o~ly $19.95 plus Name ------I organ in the body. Researchers point to ;J I $3. postage & handling ($22.95) I the fact that one of the most common ~ ~ 0 2 Months (120 tabs) only $35.95 Address Apt_ symptoms of zinc deficiency is prostate ~~ I plus $4. post & handl ($39.95) I ~nlargem~nt. Chronic prost.atitis, w~ere ~U 0 4 Months (240 tabs) only $64.95 Clly Age_ I inflammatIon of the gland IS combined ::~ plus $5. post & handl ($69.95) with infection, has been found to respond i~I 0 ~Months (360 tabs) only ~1 00.00 S:ale. Zip, I to treatment with zinc. Extra Strength ~~I (lnclu~es postage & handling) I PROSTAID with Pygeum Africanum ~~I Enclosed IS check/M.O. for $---- Telephone #' ( I also contains 10 mg. of zinc per tablet. ~~ Charge my: 0 VISA 0 MasterCard ------~om? d?ct~r~ have called zinc the ~~IAcct Exp_l_ Signature I man S vitamin. (Q1996. WGSI t= ~ LCHARGE ORDERS Call Toll Free 1-800-770-1-1-S5-M-o-n-to-F-ri-g-A-M--S-P-M-E-S-T.I JUSTA FEW MORE SEASONS AND HE'LL BE OFF TO COLLEGE... BEITER CALL YOUR FARM BURFAU INSURANCE AGENT RIGHT AfTER THE GAME.

By starting now, you can give your family the kind of future you want them to have ... a future that includes college, a paid-off mortgage, and enough money to keep the family together. Even if something happens to you, a plan from Farm Bureau Life Insurance of Michigan can make sure your dreams live on. We are the only Michigan-based company named one of the top 50 outstanding life insurers in America, based on safety, security, and financial performance. Call your Farm Bureau Insurance agent today.

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... FARM BIJREAIJ ...... 'NSIJRANCE fAlli"".@)BUREAUMUTUAl • fWl BUWU un • fWl BUREAUGENERAl • fB ANNUITY

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Michigan Fann Bureau Rural Living Magazine Post Office Box 30960 7373 West Saginaw Highway Lansing, Michigan 48909-8460