RURAL LIVING ~:---==S"',~~,;=--;", ~~",~~.""~- .--." .. -_ ' '~ , ~-.~ FARM NEWS The difference between of over 3.5 million farming apples and oranges can be families and other independent spotted at a glance. Unfor- businesses. The result: top tunately, it's not quite as easy notch health care insurance to tell the difference between at down-to-earth prices. health insurance policies. That's why we recommend As a Farm Bureau member that you take a moment to read you can choose from three the fine print if you're offered traditional Blue Cross Blue health insurance for less than Shield Comprehensive Major Farm Bureau rates. Chances are Medical plans starting as low you're being asked to compare, as $60.12 a month. (The higher well ... apples and oranges. the deductible, the lower the premium.) Regardless of the What you'll find is that dollar plan you choose, you'll get the for dollar, Farm Bureau same Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance is the better value. comprehensive major medical That's because Farm Bureau coverage. offers you the buying strength So go ahead--compare. Just make sure you know what As sure as apples aren't oranges ... you're comparing. When the decision's in, we think you'll choose a Farm Bureau health care insurance plan for its affordability, the services it offers, and the protection it provides against unscheduled time off.

What matters to you matters to us.

For further information call 1-800-292-2680 or contact your WHERE local Farm Bureau agent. BELONGING MAKES A ... MICHIGAN FARM BIJREAIJ DIFFERENCE. , •• FAMILY OF COMPANIES VOL. 67 NO.3 SUMMER 1990 MACMA FROZEN FOOD RURAL LIVING About the Cover M'iC'H""i"GA N F A~ EXPRESS Fourteen members oJMFB's board oj directors were in Washington recently to meet with Michigan's congressiDnal delega- tion about the importance oj so-called "minor crops" and an amendment to limit the planting of alternative commodities on program crop acreage. House members were also asked to modify the wheat and JeedgratnJormula to resemble theJormulas in the currentfarm bill, fearing that without change the new Jormulas would encourage the accumulation oj govern- ment stock and loss oj export market op- portunities In additiDn you will also.find a com- prehensive list oj AgriPac endorsements along with the issues considered starting onpage 14.

Of Special Interest

Gypsy Moths, Insects on the Move...Page 4 with frozen fru its A look at the destruction and control methods and vegetables, of a spreading problem. concentrates, fish, and more in bulk savings Food Bank Council of Michigan ...Page 6 Learn how farmers and non-farmers alike play a role in feeding Michigan's hungry. ORDER DEADLINE August 22 Adopt an Acre •••Page 10 DELIVERY See how eight Farm Bureau families are working September 10-21 with media to promote agriculture.

Rural Living 1s Published Quarterly: By the Michigan Farm Bureau lnfonnation and Public For more information and full Relations Division. Publ1cation and editorial offices at 7373 West Saglnaw Highway, Lansing. Michigan 48917, Post Office Box 30960 (zip 48909); phone 1-517-323-7000. listing of products available, contact your county Farm Bureau Subscriptions: $1.50 per year to members, included in annual dues. $3 per year non-members in Michigan, $5 per year non-members out of state. Publ1cation No. 345040. Established Jan. 13, 1923, as or call1-BOO-292-26BO ext. 2305 Michigan Farm News, name changed to Michigan Farm News Rural Uvfng Dec. I, 1981. Third-class postage paid at Lansing. Michigan, and at additional ma1Iing offices.

Editorial: Dennis Rudat, Editor and Business Manager.

Officers: Michigan Farm Bureau President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Vice President Wayne Wood, Mar- lette; Adm1n1strative Director, Charles Burkett; Treasurer and ChtefFfnanc1al Officer, Tom Parker; Secretary, Wlllfam S. Wllkfnson.

miCHIGan'S Director~: District I, Marlin Oubnan, Constantine; District 2, Blaine VanSickle, Marshall; District 3, Diane Homing. Manchester; Dislr1ct 4, Tom Guthrie, Delton; District 5, Mark Smuts, Charlotte; District 6, Wayne Wood, Marlette; Dislr1ct 7, Lany Snider, Hart; Dislr1ct 8, Lyle LeCronier, Freeland; District 9, Joshua Wunsch, Traverse City: Dislr1ct 10, Margaret Kartes, West Branch; District II, Robert Wahmhoff, Baraga. At- FaRm BeST Large: David Conklin, Corunna; Jack Lauric, Ca.s8 City: Faye Adam. Snover; Richard Leach. Saginaw. Promo- tion and Education, Holly Porter, Manchester. Young Farmers, Karen Stoneman, Ithaca.

SUMMER 1990, RURAL UVlNG 3 GYPSY MOTHS, PESKY INSECTS ON THE MOVE is where the economic losses to woodlot owners and commercial foresters begin. National, state, and local offi- cials have been aggressive in their efforts to combat the pest. The Michigan Departinent of Agrtculiurehasearmarked $350,000 for gypsy moth this year, including a special one year $100,000 approprtation for educating landowners. "One of the major challenges that we face is to inform and edu- cate landowners about the dif- Even though eradication ef- ferent options available to forts were initiated following the control the pests," said Ron escape of the foreign moth, the Prtest, manager of the MDA's insect continued to spread. gypsy moth program. 'We are Today, the gypsy moth has also working to find biological Michigan's forest in a components like new species of stranglehold. Of the over 3 mil- non-stinging wasps that will eat lion acres in 13 states that were the moths. The MDA determines defoliated by the pesky insect which heavily-hit counties need last year, Michigan's 294,344 to be sprayed and allocates moth-damaged acres gave the funds, along with counties and state the third highest defoliation the U.S. Forest Service, to have ranking in the nation. theses areas sprayed." The moth has been found in At Michigan State University, all counties in the lower penin- research and education sula and in the eastern counties programs are in place, according of the upper peninsula. The to MSU forestry entomologist moth's destruction can be found Gary Simmons. "MSU and the in a line stretching from the MDA are working together on Thumb region across the lower this insect menace. MSU has a central section of the lower penin- full-time employee, Cora Gor- Webster's dictionary sula. Among the hardest hit such, working with 20 counties defines gypsy as "to counties are Midland and Clare. on the gypsy moth problem." wander or live like a Michigan's gypsy moth infesta- Funded by the MDA grant and tion is a known problem without housed at the Clare County gypsy." The appropri- Cooperative Extension office in gypsy a simple solution. Each year, ately-named moth gypsy moth larva hatch in April Hartison, Gorsuch conducts has been wandering and May when tree leaves are training programs and works across the United States forming. The caterpillars eat the with county coordinators to since 1869 when it was leaves of oak, aspen, birch, determine moth activity and a poplar, basswood and other trees course of action. The MSU brought into the country Agrtculiural Experiment Station, by a visiting European through July and then form a cocoon. A moth then exits and Prtest adds, "is involved in re- scientistfor research pur- mates. An egg mass is layed near searching biological pesticides poses and escaped. Since the cocoon and the male and and natural occurring viruses to that time, the moth has female moth die in late July. The combat the moths." been the march, leav- whole process is repeated the The funding for these on programs has been a prtortty for ing a trail of irlfestation follwing year with the larva hatching in May. the Michigan Farm Bureau. in its path. The moth doesn't actually kill Legislative Counsel Ron Nelson the trees as it eats the leaves. says that the organization con- However, the leaf loss affects the tinues to work with the Legisla- tree's growing cycle, using stored ture to ensure funding dollars for carbohydrates to regenerate MDA and MSU. According to Nel- leaves and stresses the tree. son, up to one half of MFB's Coupled with a year or two of membership could be affected by drought conditions, the tree may the gypsy moth. die or be severely stunted. This

4 RURAL LIVING, SUMMER 1990 So what's the answer to the moth problem? Can the gypsy moth be controlled or even eradi- MDA Signage Program cated? Controlled maybe, eradi- cated probably not. MSU's Gary Slnrmons believes that small in- Helping Farmers and festations should just be tolerated and let nature take its course. "Larger, more con- Consumers to Connect! centrated populations may re- quire action such as spraying but only as a last resort," he em- From Allegan to Wexford coun- formation about whether the phasizes. ties, farm marketers are getting product can be purchased pick- If spraying is necessary, a boost from a U-Pick and Farm ed only, u-pick only, or both. biologically produced products Market promotion program, "It's really important to the know as Bacillus thuringiensis sponsored by the Michigan program that we help these farm (or BT for short) should be used, departments' of agriculture and market customers get the most says the MDA'sRon Priest. 'We transportation. The program, up-to-date. accurate information need to stay away from using piloted from July to November available,"says Tanya. 'That's chemicals to spray the moths. 1989 and now operating in why I always recommend that BTs are naturally occurring com- 1990, invites motorists entering the caller phone ahead to verify ponents that do not endanger the state's southwest counties to the information I've given." humans or wildlife." visit farm markets and u-pick The 1990 Farm Market and U- The key player in reducing the orchards and fields. Using signs Pick Directory is available at no moth population over time is at the Welcome Center in Ber- charge by calling the toll-free hot- Mother Nature. She has provided rien County, at two 1-94 rest line or by writing. Michigan a virus within the moth that areas in Van Buren County, and Department ofAgriculture, P.O. limits its advancement. Wasps, at 22 other state highway loca- Box 30017, Lansing, MI 48909, mice and other existing living or- tions in Berrien, Van Buren, Attn: Tanya Johnson. ganisms also help to naturally Cass and Kalamazoo counties, a control the moths. toll-free information number A recent report from the helps travelers connect with in- University of Massachusetts season Michigan fruit and opted for the increased use of a vegetable harvests. The hotline, Japanese fungus to control the 1-800-877-PICK, is available 24 moths. University Entomologist hours a day, seven days a week. Joseph Elkington says the fun- Tanya-Johnson, MSU gus could help deflate the moth graduate and "information population. 'The fungus is not a central" operator for the U-pick single miracle cure for the gypsy hotline, says that she receives moth problem. It can, however, about 30 calls a day beginning reduce the number of large moth in early summer. "I ask the outbreaks," says Elkington. "It caller for their location and then should be used with the other tell them what type fruits or normal biological functions to vegetables are in season, where reduce moth infestations." a nearby market is located, direc- For homeowners, woodlot tions to the market, hours of owners, and commercial operation, and a phone num- ber," she says. Tanya also offers The safest, foresters, the gypsy moth will most efficient continue to be a problem. Educa- the caller a free 1990 Michigan wood heat system tional programs are key to stay- Farm Market and U-Pick Direc- on the market, the ing on top of the issue. In tory. TAYLOR water- addition, BT sprays will help 'Through the directory, we stove sits outside and heats your deflate the major problem areas. have farm market information home and 100% However, Mother Nature will do for every county from Allegan to of household hot the best job of controlling the Wexford," she says. "Not every water. moth in her own natural way. farm market is listed though be- • UL listed •Thermostatic control. cause the information is con- .12 to 24 hour burn time tributed by the markets and not Call 1-800-545-2293 for more details. everyone provides the informa- tion to us. The directory includes TAYLOR MANUFACTURING, INC. market name, phone number, PO Box 518. Elizabethtown. NC 28337 location, directions from the nearest highway or interstate, crops and season dates, and in-

SUMMER 1990. RURAL UVING FOOD BANK COUNCIL OF MICHIGAN, INC... " ..Jor the elimination of hunger in the state of MIChIgan.

FBCM Mission Statement

Q. Who can farmers and com- modity groups turn to when, for one reason or another, they have surplus commodities on their hands? Q. Who do the over 1.5 million Michigan residents at or below poverty levels turn to when they don't know where their next meal will come from? Q. Who can major food com- panies, such as Kelloggs' and Post Cereal, contact when they have a product that, although perfectly suited for consumption, may not be put on grocery shel- ves because of a damaged or misprinted package? A THE FOOD BANKCOUNCIL OF MICHIGAN! Last year the Food Bank Coun- cil of Michigan (FBCM)distibuted over 17 million pounds of food items to the needy through its 14,000 square foot Lansing warehouse, according to FBCM Executive Director Karin Uhlich. The FBCM network includes 14 member food banks located 1991, according to MDA's Nancy al Foodbank Network located in throughout Michigan that service Walter, director for agricultural Chicago. the needs of over 1100 com- innovation and development. Cherry Central Cooperative, munity service agencies. 'There are times when there is based in Traverse City recently The FBCM started in 1983 simply an oversupply of product, donated over 357,000 pounds of with a goal to "alleviate hunger with no place to go that might be surplus cherries in industrial by providing low cost, quality lost or left in the field," says Wal- size 30 pound tins, with funds food to community agencies, and ter. 'This is a mechanism to com- from Michigan Food Bank Fund to conselVe food in a nation pensate for less and less federal used to process the cherries into where one fifth of all food funds, and make use of those smaller consumer usable pack- produced for human consump- commodities. We (MDA)feel the ages, according to Cherry tion is wasted." The council net- program is very unique - the only Central's John Minnema. work is funded by grants and one of its kind in the nation due Minnema added that after private donations. to a good structure and the several years of surplus in the Thanks in part to a new pro- volunteers involved." cherry industry the donation was gram called the Michigan Food In its first year, the fund ac- seen as a way to move product Bank Fund initiated in 1989, counted for 10% of the total plus possibly enhance distribu- Michigan farmers and processors items donated from 11 partic- tion in the future. are playing a more active role in pants and were used to help of- "I would encourage other com- supporting those goals. The fset processing costs in modity groups to consider doing fund, administered through the converting produce to usable con- the same thing," says Minnema. Michigan Department of Agricul- sumer packages. The USDA and 'We anticipate doing it again- ture (MDA),started out with a private company donations ac- you bet! It's a rewarding ex- $25,000 allocation which was in- counted for 40%> of additional perience. creased to $50,000 for 1990, donations respectively, with 100/& reaching the $100,000 level in from the Second HaIVest Nation-

6 RURAL UVlNG, SUMMER 1990 Liabilty Fears Qualmed a problem ...they beleive that Product liability has been a people choose not to work," says concern for several would-be Uhlich. "Close to half the people donators, but according to Uh- we serve are children! People lich, that problem has been ad- who have no choice or say in this dressed under Michigan's "Good whole deal. A good proportion Samaritan Act" providing are seniors who have worked all LegiSlatiOn to set standards producers and processors with their lives." for organic foods should estab- protection, unless they knowing- According to Uhlich, over 1.5 lish a national standard so that 1ydonate contaminated items. million people are at or below the consumers will have a clear 'We have never had an ex- poverty level in Michigan. A under- standing of what they perience of receiving bad FBCM study in the fall of 1989 are buying, the American Farm product," says Uhlich. 'We also estimates that on average each of Bureau Federation told a House must go through the same MDA those 1.5 million is doing with- Agriculture Committee hearing inspection process as processors out food five days out of each recently. and we also must meet the stric- month. Testifying at a session on the ter standards of the Second Har- Federal funding cuts have con- proposed Organic Foods vest National Food Bank tributed to the increased need for Production Act of 1990, Network. FBCMalso plays a role the serice of the food bank Uh- Stephen George, president of in monitoring the over 1,100 lich adds, citing lagging funds for the NewJersey Farm Bureau community service agencies." food stamps over the past decade and a vegetable grower, said, "If and the ever increasing inflation consumers want food with an rate. organic label, then that label Non-Farmers Play "In the 70s', this nation came a Role Also should mean the same thing very close to eliminating hunger throughout the country. Those Volunteers make the system entirely. The problem did not work as evidenced at the Lansing wishing to buy and those wish- just re-emerge without some ing to grow organic food should warehouse. They employ four specific reasons," says Uhlich. "If full-time employees, but a be encouraged to do so, but people would really acknowledge that choice should be on the majority of the staff support that there's hunger, our job comes from some 30 volunteers basis of complete and accurate would be over real soon. It really information." Presently, 15 to doing everything from loading would." trucks, to stocking shelves, 20 states have differing stand- making deliveries and general ards on organic foods, he said. cleanup. The organic labeling measure "Itsjust amazing how people approved earlier by the Senate can plug into the operation," Agriculture Committee in its says Uhlich. 'We can always use 1990 farm bill deliberations more volunteer support here as helped provide "a framework for well as the 14 other locations. discussion," said George, but That support doesn't always the measure is too broad be- have to be in terms of actual cause it goes "beyond labeling staffing but could include finan- and the efficient promotion of cial support, donation of equip- commerce. " ment and services, seIVingon George said the Senate bill's our board or a committe." penalties of up to $50,000 in fines and imprisonment are "way out of line" with the bill's Is Hunger Really purpose to encourage the a Problem? production of organic foods. A ''The biggest obstacle and the more effectivepenalty would be hardest one for me is that people to exclude violators from the still don't beleive that hunger is program and not certify their production, he said. The NewJersey farm leader Who To Contact? also said the proposed threshold for exempting farmers from the guidelines People statewide who may be interested in donating com- modities, or volunteering timeand/ or services, should contact should be lowered from $5,000 to $1,000 worth of products Karin Uhlich directly. She will be able to refer you to one of the nearest warehouses and/ or community service agencies. sold. A $5,000 threshold "is too Contact: The Food Bank Council of Michigan, Inc. Karin Uhlich high and will undermine con- Ex~cutive Director 2116 Mint Road Lansing MI48906 sumer confidence," said George. (517) 321-3103 '

SUMMER 1990, RURAL UVlNG 7 FARM BVRFAU ESSAY CONlEST WINNERS A HIT AT THE STA7E C'APlTOL

The tDp 10 winners on the Capitol steps. From left tD right Rena Leinberger. Angela Hoston. Julie Barst, Lori Baughman. Nii:ole Pinon. Ashley Ball. Melissa StaytDn. Nikki Valenti. Tony Augusty. and Sandra HilL

The State Senate and Lt. Gover- dent Larry Thomas presented Zion Evangelical Lutheran nor don't always plaques and savings bonds to School, Chesaning; Eighth -- An- see eye to eye. but they agreed the winners, including a $1,000 gela Hoston, Vetal Middle on one recently: that Michigan bond for the first place student School, Detroit: Ninth -- Lori can be very proud of its young and $500 bonds for each of the Baughman, Southfield Christian people--especially the top ten remaining nine. School. Southfield; Tenth -- winners of the America and Me The students wrote essays Sandra Hill, St. Paul Lutheran Essay Contest. that were judged the ten best in School, Bay City The top ten teenagers. winners the state out of thousands of Ashley Ball's first place essay of the annual essay contest spon- entries from eigth graders from is reprinted in the box at the sored by Farm Bureau Insur- 500 Michigan schools for the an- right. The contest, conducted an- ance, received VIP treatment nual contest initiated in 1968 by nually with the help of Farm during recent ceremonies at the Farm Bureau Insurance. Bureau Insurance agents around State Capitol. The final rankings were deter- the state, encourages Michigan They were recognized with a mined by a panel of VIPjudges youth to explore their role in special Senate resolution, including the likes of Governor America's future. presented with certificates signed Blanchard, Lt. Governor Grif- As sponsor of the contest, by the governor, honored by fiths, and Congressman Bob Farm Bureau Insurance has Senator , and met Carr. The top ten winners of the received 11 national awards from with Martha Grifilths in her of- contest were: the Freedoms Foundation at Val- fice. First -- Ashley Ball, Clarkston ley Forge and received a 1990 "It's inspiring to see such Jr. High, Clarkston; Second-- Award of ExcelIence from the In- bright young people," Mrs. Grif- Tony Augusty, St. Sebastian surance Marketing Communica- fiths told the students. "I believe School, Dearborn Heights; tions Association. America is in good hands when I Third -- Rena Leinberger, De- The 22nd annual contest will read your essays and hear about Jonge Jr. High, Ludington: kick-off in Michigan schools your accomplishments." Fourth -- Nikki Valenti. Academy during September. The theme for Mter meeting with state offi- of the Sacred Heart, Bloomfield; the upcoming contest is "How I cials, the young winners were Fifth -- Nicole Pinon, Addams Jr. Will Help PreseIVe America." honored at an awards banquet High, Royal Oak; Sixth -- Melissa hosted by Farm Bureau In- Stayton. St. Anselm School, surance. Executive Vice Presi- Dearborn; Seventh -- Julie Barst,

8 RURAL LIVING. SUMMER 1990 AMERICA&ME

by Ashley Ball, Clarkston Jr. High First Place Statewide Winner 1989-90 America & Me Essay Contest It was an unusually warm day in October when Ifirst saw the Statue of Liberty. My family had come to New Yorkfor afew days of sightseeing. As we walked around the edge of the little island on which the massive statue stood, I shaded my eyes and gazed up 20 stories into the Young peonle's statue'sfoce. The brilliant morning sunlight had washed Citizenshf her tarnish to a beautiful pale sea-green color. Looming - P there above me..Jor a moment, she took my breath away. Senttnar Suddenly, I wanted to krww her better. I knew, of course, how important she was to immigrants; that her Take the energy and en- purpose was to receive them. ..the poor and the weary thusiasm of nearly 200 Michigan and the lwmeless. That was her mainjob and, looking up high school juniors and seniors; mix well at an award winning at her, I couldfeellww well she'd done her part. citizenship program, and you It was strange, I tlwught, the hold she suddenly had on have the experience of a lifetime me, the things she made me think, the good she made me for students attending the 1990 want to do. Yet there I waS, an ant at her feet. She was Michigan Farm Bureau Young so much more able than me. She could receive whole na- People's Citizenship Seminar, tions and give themfreedom and hope and opportunity. [ June 18-22, at Olivet College. The week's actMties offered could rwt do that. [ could only do little things, like maybe students the opportunity to cam- rake leavesfor someone, or bake cookiesfor a sick neigh- paign for "political" office as can- bor, or play with the little child who missed his mom. didates or party supporters and There was so little [ could do. learn from motivational Iremem.IJered going with my church youth group to speakers, world travelers, politi- sing at a nursing home one Christmas. As we were leav- cal refugees, economists, elected officials, and educators about ing, a lady reoched out to touch me. Her hand was trem- the global influence of our bling. [ stopped andfolded her hand between minefor a governmental and economic sys- few seconds, and her hand stopped trembling. It was tems of democracy and really rwthingfor me to do; but [guess it meant a lot to capitalism. Speakers help her. prepare the students for active participation in the seminar and, As I made my way up the crowdedferry boat ramp to in the larger sense, as citizens in return to Manhattan, I was sort of surprised at how dif- our country. ferently Ifelt toward the other passengers ...more patient, This year's speakers included more understanding of irritations. As theferry sailed Michigan representatives Frank away, [looked bock at the statue. She was looking right Fitzgerald and Lynn J ondahl; at me, and there was the slightest smile on her foce. It Rick Metzger, former FFA nation- al president; Dr. Richard Ebling, was probably the same look she gave to all those who economist, Hillsdale College; passed through her harbor. It was herjob. It was the Maria Schultz, Ukrantan refugee way she sent us on to do whatever it was that we could and naturalized U.S. citizen; Dr. do. Robert Rowland, president, She could handle the big things. She could receive American Citizenship Center and people; and she could give themfreedom and hope and executive director, Enterprise Square USA; Stacey Allison, the opportunity. But she couldn't do the little things. She first woman to summit Mt. couldn't rake leaves or bake cookies or hold someone's Everest; Dr. John Furbay, trembling hand. She needed me to do those things. I author /lecturer /world traveler; thoughtfor a long time about the way she looked at me, Rev. Bruce Hanks, Abe Lincoln and about her smile. She had her job, and I had portrayer; and Jack Laurie, presi- mine ...together we would do great things. dent, Michigan Farm Bureau.

SUMMER 1990, RURAL LIVING 9 ADOPT AN ACRE

The Traverse City Record-Eagle has "adopted" an acre of comfrom Northwest Michigan FB President Brent and Peggy Wagner. Later this year, the Record-Eagleplans to adopt an acre offruit from Benzie County President Cheryl and Alan Kobemik. (Photoby Marg Higgons ITraverse City Record Eagle)

Eight Farm Bureau families in of them no-till, from Missaukee Jerxy Wright has adopted the various parts of the state are in- County President Cal and three acres from Genesee Coun- vesting their time and expertise Sharon Ellens. Chris, a ty FB leader Dan Hill. In addi- this year in a program called transplant from Washington, tion to covering production "Adopt-An-Acre." The agriculture D.C., and his family spent some practices of these unique crops, understanding promotion pro- time on the Ellens farm to find Jerxy will focus on the direct-to- gram has been offered to news out what kind of labor invest- consumer "Montrose Orchards" media by MFB since 1986, ment goes into those acres. The farm market. operated by Don' providing them an opportunity Traverse City Record-Eagle and Sandy Hill. Special em- to "adopt" a crop for the season, adopted an acre of corn from phasis will be placed on farm follow its progress from planting Northwest Michigan President chemical use. food safety and in- to marketing, and share this in- Brent and Peggy Wagner. The tegrated pest management (IPM) formation with their audiences. reporter assigned to the proj ect efforts. The prograpl was initially is no stranger to agriculture or Another dally newspaper, the designed for television, but last Farm Bureau. Writer Marg Hig- Huron Daily Tribune in Bad Axe, year three newspapers broke the gins is a Benzie County FB mem- adopted an acre of sugar beets tradition and proved that print ber and serves as Benzie's editor from Jim and Bill Herford and media could do as good a job, if for the regional newsletter, The an acre of navy beans from the not better, than time-restricted Fence Post Duane Roggenbuck Farms. The 1V in sharing the story of 1\vo Adopt -An-Acre repeaters, Tribune's experienced farm agriculture with the non-farm the Arenac County Independent writer, Sandy Hogan, has added public. This year, another tradi- and the Gladwin County Record, human interest to her adopted tion was broken when WMIC in decided on a different approach acres reports with appealing ac- Sandusky became the first radio this year. The Independent tion photos of members of the station to be involved in the adopted a cow from Joe and host farm families. Adopt-An-Acre program. Host Brenda Golimbieski. The cow All of the farm families in- family John and Cathy Knoerr will have a calf in a few weeks volved in this year's Adopt-An- and broadcaster Jim McDaniel and Editor Ben Welmers will use Acre program believe the time report that WMIC's "adoption" of the two as effective vehicles to ex- they are investing will prove an acre of sugar beets has gone plain the dairy business to Inde- worthwhile. They have helped well from the first in-field inter- pendent readers. Gladwin tell the story of agriculture and. view on planting day through County Record Editor Ron Przys- at the same time, developed subsequent updates, with en- tas will also adopt a cow from relationships with the news thusiastic audience response. the Don and Ann Wilford family. media that will benefit their in- In the Northwest region, two The largely urban audience of dustry. county FB presidents are in- the FtintJoumalis being treated volved in Adopt-An- Acre to an indepth look at what it projects. Chris Copley, editor of takes to produce three consumer the Lake City Waterfront. favorites -- strawberries, blueber- "adopted" two acres of corn, one ries and apples. Journal writer

10 RURAL UVING. SUMMER 1990 Promoting a greater understanding in the news, in the classroom, and television programming FARM BUREAU TV SHOW STILL Media Response GOING STRONG Teams Formed A unique farmer-produced Smith. Stoneman, of Brecken- television program moved to new ridge, also chairs the Michigan air times recently on WNEM-TV, Farm Bureau State Young Channel 5, in the Flint-Saginaw- Farmer Committee and was Bay City market. "Farm and Gar­ named Michigan Farm Bureau's den" is now broadcast every Outstanding Young Farm Saturday at 7 a.m., and repeated Woman in 1986. Smith farms on Sundays at 6:30 a.m. near Bay Port and was honored The show is a joint project of as Michigan Farm Bureau's Dis­ the Michigan Farm Bureau and tinguished Young Farmer, also in eight county Farm Bureaus — 1986. Saginaw, Bay, Midland, Gratiot, WNEM-TV has been recog­ Sanilac, Huron, Genesee and nized as a Michigan Farm Tuscola. The county Farm Bureau "Agricultural Com­ Bureaus provide financial assis­ municator of the Year" for tance to air the program and fur­ producing and promoting the pro­ nish volunteer reporters. These gram. county correspondents work The show is always on the with a camera person provided lookout for agricultural events by WNEM-TV and do stories and activities to promote. If you'd JL elling the story of agriculture about agricultural events in their like to appear on the show or through the news media is also counties. have an idea for a story, contact the objective of a new program "Farm and Garden" is hosted one of the eight county Farm launched last fall called Media each week by two area farmers, Bureaus listed above. Response Teams. Kent County Karen Stoneman and Dean Farm Bureau leaders gave birth to the idea of forming teams of farmer spokespersons and offer­ ing their services to the news media in responding to current issues. Located in the Grand Rapids area, one of the state's major media markets, they be­ came the first Media Response Team. An agricultural resource directory, listing the names, ad­ dresses, phone numbers and brief bio sketches of the team members, was distributed to the Grand Rapids area news media with encouragement to contact these farmers to help them with their ag- related stories. Since that time, the Kent The first "Understanding Agriculture - New Directions for K-12 County team has served as a pat­ Education" summer institute for teachers was a resounding success! tern for the rest of the state. The This three-credit class about teaching agriculture in the classroom was list of farmers who have received conductedfor 12 Michigan teachers, June 20-29. Participants learned media response team training how to use agricultural examples to teach science, economics, math, in­ has grown to about 100. Train­ ternational trade and other subjects. ing includes a session on work­ The program included presentations by Michigan's first lady Janet ing with the news media, a Blanchard and Michigan Farm Bureau president Jack Laurie. Michigan report on the AFBF food safety re­ State University trustee Tom Reed and Ingham County dairy farmer search and message develop­ Vivian Lott served on a panel. The institute was a cooperative effort be­ ment, and live, on-camera tween Farm Bureau, Michigan State University Agriculture and Exten­ interview practice sessions. sion Education, 4-H, the Michigan Department of Education, and the Michigan Economic Education Council. Planning is already underway for a 1991 summer institute.

SUMMER 1990. RURAL LIVING 11 Announcing Money-Saving •••••••••••••• BUS TRIPS ••••••••••••••

NOW Three More Reasons to Use Member Travel Services • AN AMISH COUNTRYSIDE/FALL COLOR TOUR Journey October 8-10 with us for an Amish Countryside/Fall Color tour. The largest Amish settlement in the world is located in Tuscarawas and Holmes counties of Ohio. During your three-day, two-night stay, you'll meet with the Amish in their craft shops, saw mills, quilt shops, cheese factories, fish hatcheries and even be guests at an Amish wedding dinner. Plus much more! The price? $269 per person.

• MAKE A DATE WITH THELEGENDARY BOB HOPE He's been hailed by critics and fans as the King of Comedy for decades. See The Chairman of American Humor during a visit September 20- 30 to the Star Plaza Theatre and Resort in Merrillville, Indiana. You don't have to wait for the stars to come out at night to shine. Golf course, indoor tennis and racquetball and fitness clubs are minutes away. And just across the street is South Lake Mall and Century Consumer Outlet. Or stick around at the fabulous indoor atrium swimming pool and jacuzzis. Cost of the one-night stay is just $179 per person. Price includes a special cocktail hour with hors d'oeuvres.

• MIX BUSINESS WITH PLEASURE AT THE FARM PROGRESS SHOW Come aboard September 24-27 when we ride to Amana, Iowa, for the 1990 Farm Progress Show. The annual event brings together the latest in machinery, fanning practices, livestock and feed, and other farm related products. Field demonstrations and educational exhibits from Iowa State University and the Iowa Department of Agriculture are just part of the draw.You'll stay at the nearbyHoliday Inn in Iowa City with its indoor pool, fine dining and shuttle to the show. At $359 per person, you're dollars ahead of your flying fellow agriculturists.

For all group bus trips, call 1-800-292-2680, Ext. 3237 lit MEMBER _. TRAVEL SERVICES We Take Better Care of You... Worldwide! DIAPERS BIG BUSINESS.FOR Com Growers Receive FARMERS? Environmental Achievement Award A company in California is most no oxygen and almost no manufacturing a biodegradable water. They are also recyclable The South Dakota Com diaper called Bunnies and that's and compostable, so one doesn't Growers Association (SDCGA) good news not only for parents even have to put them into concerned about the environ- recently received a 1990 Environ- landfills. " . mental Achievement Award from ment, but for corn growers as "If those 16 billion diapers put well, according to Michigan the National Environmental into landfills each year had been Awards Council, for testing and Farm Bureau economist Bob made with a cornstarch based Craig. The exterior of the diaper use of their E-85 car, which runs plastic, a major environmental on up to 85 percent environmen- is made using a cornstarch- concern would be addressed -- tally-friendly ethanol. Their based plastic similar to the plus it would create a potential product used to manufacture proj ect was selected from over market for 100 million to 150 1,000 applicants to receive the biodegradable garbage bags. million bushels of corn each award. "Sixteen billion diapers are year. That would be good news The SDCGA was honored for thrown into landfills each year -- for com growers," he said. its work on converting a 1988 that's 10 billion square feet of American Enviro Products, Cheverolet Corsica to run on any plastic," said Craig. "The prob- manufacturer of Bunnies, is cur- blend of ethanol up to 85 per- lem has been that typical dis- rently running experiments on cent. Independent tests, at EPA posable diapers don't the absorbency of com, oats and approved labs, showed the car to decompose. Research shows that cotton. If successful, 80 percent Bunnies, within a few years, will be one of the cleanest burning of the diaper will be produced automobiles in the country when biodegrade in no sunlight, al- from farm products. operating on "E-85", 85 percent ethanol, 15 percent gasoline. Ac- cording to emissions test, carbon monoxide emissions were reduced 49 percent and hydrocarbon emissions were reduced 31 percent. Carbon dioxide emissions were reduced as well.

FPCPROPANE OUI'lET OPENS INIANSING

Farmers Petroleum Cooperative (FPC)recently opened a new propane retail branch at 5716 S. Cedar Street, Lansing, and will be seIVingthe Lansing market and surrounding six county area with full seIVicepropane delivezy.Other seIVicesinclude tank setting, gas checks, 24 hour emergency seIVice, and free tank rental to qualified customers. FPC and Farm Bureau members receive a fivecent per gal- lon discount! In addition to the delivery ser- An extensive $750,000 renovation to the Michigan State Fair's his- vices being offered,the branch will toric poultry building, built in 1921, was recently completed, making it cany a complete line of gas grills one oj the .finest, according to Carol Culham, assistant manager of the and accessories, heaters and State Fair. Exhibitors willftnd aU-new cages, restrooms, bathrooms, propane fuel appliances at their S. wiring and plwnbing. Pictured with Culham is David Stough, agricul- Cedar showroom. The new outlet ture, livestock and youth supervisor for the Michigan State Fair, also provides fill seIVicesfor grill, scheduled this year for Aug. 24-Sept. 3.. RVand construction cylinders.

SUMMER 1990, RURAL IJVING 13 "Friends of Agriculture" Selected

titudes of Farm Bureau members in their county Congressman Bill Schuette (R-Sanford) tops the toward the candidates, and they know whether the list of 98 candidates designated as "Friends of candidates recognize the importance of agriculture Agriculture by the Michigan Farm Bureau's Agri- in the area they will represent," he said. Pac. Schuette received the endorsement for the The issues were selected by AgriPac committee U.S. Senate seat currently held by Democrat Carl members, compiled with voting records and sent Levin who scored a 700A> voting record compared to to county committees for consideration. The issues Schuettes 80%. were selected without prior knowledge of in- According to Shiawassee county farmer and dividual voting records of candidates to avoid any chairman of AgriPac, Dave Conklin, recommend a- bias.Following are the candidates designated by tions from county Farm Bureau Candidate Evalua- AgriPac as "Friends of Agriculture." The designa- tion Committees from throughout the state and tion constitutes an August 7, primary election en- 0 Schuette's 80 k voting record were factors in his dorsement. If the endorsed candidate wins the endorsement primary, the endorsment will carty through to the "During his years as a Congressman, Bill November 6, general election. Schuette has been a dedicated advocate for Michigan Agriculture," said Conklin. "He was the first Michigan Congressman to get a permanent ap- u.s. SENATE pointment to the House Agriculture Committee in at least 25 years. We believe he will continue to be a strong advocate for Michigan agriculture in the Bill Schuette (R-SWlJord) U.S. Senate." Voting Record 80% According to Conklin, the recommendation of county Farm Bureau Candidate Evaluation Com- mittees are a major factor in AgriPac's decision making process. 'The farmers who seIVe on county committees know the candidates, they know the at- u.s. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ENDORSEMENTS AND ISSUES 1. Congressional Pay Raise - Passage of lan- Carl PurseU (R-Plymouth) guage to reject a raise in congressional and high- District 2 level government officials' salaries. The U.S. House Voting Record 80% rejected the bill. AFBF favored a "Y"vote to reject the raise. 2. Minimum Wage - Passage of the conference report to raise the minimum wage from the cur- rent $3.35 per hour to $4.55 per hour by Oct. 1, 1991 and provide a 60-day training wage equal to Brad Haskins (R-Ceresco) 85 percent of the minimum. The U.S. House ap- District 3 proved the conference report. AFBF favored a "N" Voting Record NA. vote. 3. Cargo Preference - A motion to return a bill to committee to strike language that greatly in- creased the cost of farm exports. The language re- quired that 50 percent of U.S. goods purchased with economic support funds be transported on Fred Upton (R-St. Joseph) U.S. flag vessels rather than foreign flag vehicles. District 4 The U.S. House rejected the motion. AFBF favored Voting Record 90% a "Y" vote. 4. Section 89 - An amendment to repeal section 89 of the 1986 Tax Code requiring employers to prove their health benefit plans are non-dis- criminatory. The U.S. House passed the amend- Paul Henry(R-GrWld Rapids) ment. AFBF favored a ''V' vote. District 5 5. Capital Gains Tax - An amendment to delete Voting Record 90% a capital gains tax cut provision in the 1990 Budget Reconciliation bill. The U.S. House passed the amendment. AFBF favored a "N"vote. 6. Food Aid To Poland/ Cargo Preference - An amendment to reduce to 50 percent, from the cur- rent 75 percent, the amount of U.S. food-aid ship-

14 RURAL UVING. SUMMER 1990 Bob Carr (D-East Lansing) ments to Poland that must be carried on U.S. flag District 6 ships. The U.S. House rejected the amendment. Voting Record 70% AFBF favored a 'ry" vote. 7. Minimum Wage - A bill to increase the mini- mum wage from $3.35 per hour to $4.25 per hour over two years and provide a temporary training wage equal to 85 percent of the m1n1mumwage for employees 16 to 19 years of age. The U.S. House Guy Vander Jagt (R-Luther) passed the bill. AFBF favored a "N"vote. District 9 8. 1990 Budget Reconciliation Budget - Adop- Voting Record 70% tion of the conference report to provide for spend- ing cuts and revenue increases to bring the F.Y. 1990 budget deficit within the $110 billion limit of the Gramm-Rudman Act. The U.S. House passed the bill. AFBF favored a 'ry" vote. 9. Garbage Backhauling - A bill requiring the Dave Cwnp (R-Midland) Transportation Department to issue regulations District 10 governing backhauling of food, solid waste and Voting Record NA. hazardous materials in food trucks and cargo tanks. The U.S. House passed the bill. AFBF favored a 'ry" vote. 10. Parental and Medical Leave - A bill requiring public and private employers of 50 or more to give up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave annually for the William Broomfield (R-Birmin- birth of a child, or sickness. The U.S. House gham) passed the bill. AFBF favored a "N"vote. District 18 Voting Record 90%

MICIDGAN SENATE ENDORSEMENTS (LISTED BY DISTRICT) AND ISSUES 1 John Kelly (D-Detroit) 60°..1> 1. Agriculture Loans - A bill to authorize state 4 David Holmes (D-Detroit) 60°..1> funds to be deposited in banks for loans to 5 Michael O'Brien (D-Detroit) 70°..1> farmers and agribusiness firms affected by the 6 Robert Geake (R-Northville) 80% 1986 excessive rains. The Senate passed the bill. 7 Christopher Dingell (D-Trenton) 90°..1> MFBfavored a 'ry" vote. 8 Matt Dunaskiss (R-Lake Orion) NA 2. Oversize Farm Equipment - A bill to allow the 9 Doug Carl (R-Mt. Clemens) 80°..1> movement of farm equipment of any width during 10 George Hart (D-Dearborn) 80% daylight hours if the flow of vehicular traffic is not 11 Norman Shinkle (R-Lambertville) 1000/0 impeded and the equipment is not moved left of 12 William Faust (D-Westland) 60°/0 the road's center. The Senate passed the bill. MFB 13 Jack Welborn (R-Kalamazoo) 80°..1> favored a 'ry" vote. 14 Jon Cisky (R-Saginaw) NA 3. Farm Liability - A bill to protect growers 15 Denise Alexander (R-Southfield) NA operating farm markets and U- Pick markets or al- 16 Doug Cruce (R-Troy) 1000..1> lowing gleaners onto their fields from liability 17 Judith Miller (R-Birmingham) NA claims. The Senate passed the bill. MFB favored a 19 Nick Smith (R-Addison) 80% 'ry" vote. 20 John Schwarz (R-Battle Creek) 1000/0 4. Ethanol - A bill to provide a single business 21 Paul Wartner (R-Portage) NA tax credit for corn used in the production of 22 Harry Gast (R-St. Joseph) 90% ethanol. The Senate passed the bill. MFB favored a 23 W1lliamVanRegenmorter(R.Jenison) NA "y" vote. 5. Right-To-Farm - A bill authorizing the Michigan Agriculture Commission to develop NA. - Signifies candidate generally accepted waste managment practices challenging incumbent, which provide immunity from nuisance suits. The no record onfile. Senate passed the bill. MFB favored a 'ry" vote. 6. Pesticide Control- A bill to increase stand- ards for commercial pesticide applicators, require farmers to be properly certified and provide farmers protection from civilliabllity if pesticide label instructions are followed. The Senate passed the bill. MFB favored a 'ry" vote. (Continued on page 18)

SUMMER 1990, RURAL IJVlNG 15 Today, those looking for ways to Compare the fees. The Member- meet their credit needs know it's Line VISA has no annual fees, no wise to compare because, frankly, membership fees and no applica- some credit cards offer a lot more tion fee. The annual fee for the than others. Nobody knows this Gold MasterCard is $20 - far better than the Farm Bureau lower than the fee charged for members who carry a Farm most gold cards. For added Bureau MemberLine VISA or a savings, the $20 fee is rebated Farm Bureau Gold MasterCard - every year that you make $3,000 two great credit cards that stand or more in net purchases. ab~ve the rest because they offer more than the rest. Compare convenience. With a MemberLine VISA or Compare the interest rates. Gold MasterCard you can access The interest rate on the Member- your credit line with easy to use Line VISA and Gold MasterCard MemberLine checks and through is just 15.9% A.P.R. - one of any Automated Teller Machines the lowest interest rates available. displaying the MasterCard, VISA, In addition, you pay no interest MagicLine or Cirrus logos. Cash on new credit card purchases whenever you need it - wherever when your full balance is paid you need it. by the due date. Compare the premiums. Both the MemberLine VISA and the sM The Farm Bureau MemberLine VISA & Gold MasterCard. Gold MasterCard offer a wide array Two good reasons why it pays to compare before you of complimentary features and options for your protection and apply for a credit card ... peace of mind. And when you carry a Gold MasterCard, you'll enjoy the added advantages of a higher credit line, executive travel privileges, emergency road assistance, purchase protection insurance and a warranty extension program - valuable "extras" you and your family can depend on.

The Farm Bureau MemberLine VISA and Gold MasterCard - a great way to tell the world how proud you are to be a Michigan Farm Bureau member. WHERE BELONGING a FIRSfDFAMUIO\.Bank MAKES A "./tIleHleAN DIFFERENCE . ••• FAR/tl BUREAIJ APPLY NOW for a Farm Bureau MemberLinef.1 VISA or Gold MasterCard

FARM BUREAU MEMBERLlNE- APPLICATION First Name Middle Initial Last Name ISocial Security Number

Present Street Address Time at Present Address I Date of Birth Yrs. Mos. City, State Horne Telephone Number Zip Code I (Include Area Code) ( )

LL Previous Address (illess than two years at present address) City State Zip -..J W en Present Employer Income from alimony, child support, or maintenance payments need not be revealed a: ~ you do not wish to have it as a basis for repaying this obligation. ::) o Employer's Telephone Number !Position ITime at Present Employment D Monthly > ( ) I Yrs. Mos. Gross Income Irom Employment D Yearly City, State, Zip Code D Monthly Other Income D Yearly Source of Other Income Previous Employer (~ less than two years at present employer) Time at Previous Employer I Yrs. Mos. Nearest Relative (not living with you) ITelephone IAddress I( )

First Name Middle Initial Last Name TSocial Security Number C oJ Present Street Address Time at Present Address IDate 01 Birth Co) Yrs. Mos. Co) as City, State Horne Telephone Number C (Include Area Code) ( ) :2- Stale - Previous Address (illess than two years at present address) City Zip !z Present Employer Income from alimony, child support, or maintenance payments need not be revealed ~ you do not wish to have it as a basis for repaying this obligation. o< ::i Employer's Telephone Number ITime at Present Employment D Monthly Q. ( ) I Yrs. Mos. Gross Income from Employment D Yearly Q. < City, State, Zip Code D Monthly 6 Other Income D Yearly Source 01 Other Income o Previous Employer (illess than two years at present employer) T I/Tle at Previous Employer a: Yrs. Mos. ::) I o Nearest Relative (not living with you) Telephone > IAddress \ ( )

en Credit References Monthly Payments Balance Due Monthly Payment D o.mtBuying Home D Other D Rent $ oW Z $ Mortgage Holder or Landlord Mortgage Balance w a: $ w $ Estimated Value LL D Checking Account (Bank Name) W $ a: $ l- Have You Ever DYes D Savings Account (Bank Name) we Declared DNa a: $ Bankruptcy? o Optional Group Credit Insurance Please check your card preference Vwe hereby certify that each of the answers on this application is true and correct, and is made lor the purpose 01 obtaining a loan or creat from (choose one design only) the Bank. Vwe certify that all debts owed whether individual, joint or The cast to you, the Primary Account holder contingent have been disclosed above and that none of my/OlX debts are w (applicant), is $.60 per $100 lor each month's D SCENIC VISA o definquent Of in default, except as Vwe have indicated above. Vwe hereby z average daily balance. The insurance will be- authorize the Bank to investJ;jate my/OlX creci1 record to the extent it deems < come effective when your credit begins. You necessary and to verily my/our credit. employment and income relerences. a: must be less than age 71 to be eligible lor cov- Vwe further authorize and instruct any person or consumer reporting ::) en erage. A certifICate which more fully describes agency to lumish to the Bank any information that it may have or obtain in ~ the insurance will be sent when your credit response to such credit inquiries. Vwe further agree that this application application is approved. Underwritten by The shall become the property 01 the Bank. whether or not it is approved. l- e Prudential Company 01America, Newark, New OR Apply for a Gold MasterCard Vwe agree that ~ this application is accepted and a card Of cards are w Jersey, and Prudential Property and Casualty issued that any use of the card(s) will be governed by the terms and a: Insurance Company, Holmdel, New Jersey. D conditions of the Bank's VISAlMasterCan:l Agreement and Disclosure before delivery of the card(s). assume, d more than o Those choosing to enroll will be mailed a cer- YES, I'd like the extra freedom and flexibility provided or with Vwe Q. one jointly and severally, liability fOf all charges incurred in any use of tiflCale 01 insurance explaining benefits, limita- 01 a Gold MasterCard insteCKl of the VISA ::) card. II I do not qualify for the Gold the card(s). tions and provisions and indicating the effec- o MasterCard, consider my application lor the a: tive date 01 coverage. Cl Farm Bureau VISA card. ...J X < Applicant's Signature Date Z o YES, Please enroll me In the o Group Credit Insurance Program. X t= Q. D ADDITIONAL CARD FOR AUTHORIZED USER Co-Applicant's Signature Date

o COllE INIT

Applicant's Signature Print name here AGENTUSE ~ _

Balance GracePerioclfor Calculation Repllyment of the Method None for scenic or standard VISA Balance for Cash Advance Fee - none 15.9% $20 for Gold MasterCard New Purcha_. Transaction Fee - none Average Daily Balance (rebated every year net annual late Fee - $10.00 (excluding new purchases) purchases exceed $3.000) 25 Days, starting with the billing Over Umit Fee - $10.00 date on statement" Minimum Finance Charge - none "Rnance charges are charged on cash advances and Memberline checks from the date they are posted.

Please return this application to: First of America, P.O.Box 2349, Kalamazoo, MI 49003-9917 MIalIGAN SF.NA'1E ENDORSEMENTS (USJJ!.iU BY DlSTRlCTjAND ISSUES OONTlNUED ...

24 (D-Lansing) 70°16 7. Grain Insurance Fund - A bill allowing wheat 25 Joe Conroy (D-Flint) 70% and feedgrain producers to petition for and vote in 26 Gilbert DiNello (D-East Detroit) I()()o16 a referendum to pay 1/ lOth of a cent on the value 27 Art Miller (D-Warren) 80% of grain sold to a grain dealer. If approved in the 28 Dan DeGrow (R-Port Huron) 90°16 referendum the revenue would be placed in a spe- 30 Fred Dillingham (R-Fowlerville) 90°16 cial fund to reimburse producers for lossses in- 31 (R-Lowell) I()()o16 curred as a result of grain handler banlrruptcy. 32 Vern Ehlers (R-Grand Rapids) I()()o16 The Senate passed the vote. MFB Favored a "Y" 33 Phil Arthurhultz (R-Whitehall) 1(){)o16 vote. 34 Jim Barcia (D-Bay City) 70°16 8. Inheritance Tax - A bill to repeal the Michigan 35 Joanne Emmons (R-Big Rapids) NA Inheritance Tax and replace it with the federal 36 Connie Binsfeld (R-Maple City) 80°16 pick-up tax. The Senate passed the bill. MFB 37 George'McManus (R-Traverse City) NA favored a 'ry" vote. 38 Don Koivisto (D-Ironwood) NA 9. Minimum Wage - A bill to increase the Michigan m1n1mum wage to the same level as the new federal standards and provide for a sub- NA. - SigniJies candidate minimum training wage applicable for the first challenging incumbent, three months of employment. The Senate passed no record onjile. the bill. MFB favored a 'ry" vote. 10. Quality Education - A bill to require school districts to adopt a school improvement plan, es- tablish core curriculum and a basic employability skills test for students to take before graduation. The Senate passed the bill. MFB favored a 'ry" vote

MICmGAN BOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ENDORSEMENTS (LISTED BY DISTRICT) AND ISSUES 1. Covered Loads - A bill to exempt farm trucks 6 Morris Hood, Jr. (D-Detroit) 50% transporting products in the nonna! operation of a 8 Carolyn Kilpatrick (D-Detroit) 70% farm from being covered but makes the operator liable 10 Ted Wallace (D-Detroit) 50% if any contents escape. The House passed the bill. 12 Curtis Hertel (D-Detroit) 70% MFB favored a 'ry" vote. 13 William Bryant, Jr. 2. Natural Resources Director - A bill to allow the (R-Grosse Pointe Farms) 70°16 governor rather than the Natural Resources Connnis- 18 Sid Ouwinga (R-Marton) 60°16 sion to appoint and remove the Department of Natural 19 Don Van Singel (R-Grant) 80016 Resources director. The House passed the bill. MFB 20 Claude 1iim (R-Waterford) 90% favored a "N' vote. 23 Phil Hoffman (R-Horton) 50°16 3. Water Use Reporting - A bill to require water 25 Roman Kulchitsky (R-Warren) 50°16 users, including irrigators, to register with the DNR 26 David J aye (R-Utica) 60°16 and report the volume of water used if they have the 28 Robert DeMars (D-Lincoln Park) 70°16 capacity to withdraw more than 100,000 gallons per 29 Gregory Pitoniak (D-Taylor) 70°16 day. The reporting is necessary to cany out MichJgan's 33 William Keith (D-Garden City) 50% membership in the Great Lakes Water Agreement. The 35 Lyn Bankes (R-Livonia) 70% House passed the bill. MFB favored a 'ry"vote. 39 Jerry Bartnik (D-Temperance) 60% 4. Auto Insurance Rollback - A bill to mandate auto 40 Tim Walberg (R-Tipton) 50% insurance premiums be rolled back 20 percent for 41 Michael Nye (R-Litchfield) 90°16 MichJgan drtvers and 30 percent for senior citizens 42 Glenn Oxender (R-Sturgis) 60°16 without reforms to reduce the cost of providing in- 43 Carl Gnodtke (R-Sawyer) 90% surance. The House passed the bill. MFB favored a 'N" 45 James Middaugh (R-Paw Paw) 70016 vote. 48 Don Gilmer (R-Augusta) 90% 5. Minimum Wage - A bill to increase the minimum 49 Bill Martin (R-Battle Creek) 90°16 wage from the current $3.35 to $5.00 per hour effec- 51 Susan Munsell (R-Howell) 90°16 tiveJan. I, 1993. The House passed the bill. MFB 54 Paul Hillegonds (R-Holland) 80016 favored a "N' vote. 56 Frank Fitzgerald (R-Grand Ledge )80°16 6. Quality Education - A bill to require school dis- 58 Dianne Byrum (D-Onondaga) 70°16 tricts to adopt a school improvement plan, establish 59 Lynn Jondahl (D-Okemos) 60% core cuniculums and be accredited. The House passed 60 Willis Bullard (R-Highland) 70016 the bill. MFB favored a "Y"vote. 61 Tom Middleton (R-Ortonville) NA 7. Farm Animals - A bill to update the law which 63 Gordon Sparks (R-Troy) 70% regulates the testing, vaccination/ quarantine of live- Maxine Berman (D-Southfield) 50% 64 stock moving within or into the state for the purpose of 68 Shirley Johnson (R-Royal Oak) 80% sale or shows. The House passed the bill. MFB favored 71 Sal Rocca (D-Sterling Heights) 60% a'ry"vote.

18 RURAL LIVING, SUMMER 1990 WIlDLlFE MANAGEMENT MEETINGS MICHIGAN FALL SCHEDUlED! TURKEY HUNT EXPANDED!

In order to introduce and coor- As a result of Natural Resource dinate an expanded deer block Wildlife Manage- Committee action, Michigan's permit program among Michigan 1990 Fall Turkey hunt will ex- property owners and interested ment Meetings pand almost three-fold in terms sportsmen, the Michigan Farm of licenses available and will Bureau (MFB), the Department Aug. 1 B.E. Henry Bldg., double the square miles open to of Natural Resources (DNR) and Fairgrounds, hunting, according to John Ur- the Cooperative Extension Ser- Marshall. bain,DNRForestGameBtrd vice (CES) are sponsoring a 7p.m Specialist. series of wildlife management Aug. 1 Hilbnan Community According to Urbain, over meetings to establish Coor- Center, Hillman 9,032 applications were received dinated Wildlife Managment (on M-32) , last fall for the 5,900 available teams across Michigan. 7p.m licenses over a 6,566 square mile The teams will be formed to Aug. 9 Ellsworth Community area, with approximately 2,015 evaluate the newly expanded Hall. Ellsworth birds taken as a result. The 1990 statewide deer hunting block per- 7:30 p.m fall hunt will be increased to mit program and make recom- Aug. 9 Harley Hotel. 15,600 licenses available cover- mendations for future seasons. 4041 Cascade Rd.. ing a 12,251 square mile area. Team members will consist of Grand Rapids Applicants can choose be- local farmers, hunters and per- 7:30p.rn. tween three hunting periods for sonnel from the CES and DNR. Aug. 14 Lapeer Twp. Hall. the fall hunt: Oct. 8-14, Oct. 15- MFB, DNR and CES resource 1500 Morris Rd., 24 or Oct. 25-Nov. 5. Resident personnel will be on hand at the Lapeer, application fees are $12.85 and meetings to provide additional in- 8p.rn. senior citizen application fees are formation on the new block per- Aug. 14 Peny Town Hall. Peny $4. Unsuccessful applicants will mit program as well as minor 8p.m receive a refund, however, $3 will changes to the deer damage Aug. 21 Evart Town Hall be kept by the DNRfor process- shooting permit program. For Evart, 8p.rn. ing costs. more information, interested Aug. 27 Cooperative Extension "Members should apply for the landowners and sportsmen alike Office, Fremont, second or third hunt period as should contact Vicki Pontz, legis- 8p.m their first choice when applying," lative counsel for MFB, at (51 7) said Urbain, adding that the 323-7000, Extension 2046. odds of getting a license improve.

STA1EBOVSE OF REPRESENTA7YVESENDORSEMENT AND ISSUES CONIINUED ••••

75 Ken DeBeaussaert (D-New Balthnore) 50°A> 8. Off Road Vehicle Fees - A bill to collect 77 Dick Allen (R-Caro) 80°A> $10.50 on an ORV Certificate of TItle and $7 on an 78 Keith Muxlow (R-Brown City) 60°A> ORV license beginning April 1, 1991,and prohibits 82 Thomas Scott (D-Burton) 80% operating ORVs on prtvate lands without written 84 John Strand (R-Lapeer) 90°A> permission and makes the operator liable for 85 James O'Neill (D-Saginaw) 70% damage to prtvate property. The House passed the 86 Lewis Dodak (D-Montrose) 60°A> bill. MFB favored a toy" vote. 88 Robert Bender (R-Middleville) 70°A> 9. Commercial Drtvers License - A bill to clarify 89 Gary Randall (R-Elwell). 80% farm vehicle exemptions and covered load require- 90 Marsha Wilcox (R-Lowell) NA. ments under the Commercial Drtvers license re- 91 Walter DeLange (R-Kentwood) 70°A> quirements. The House passed the bill. MFB 93 Richard Bandstra (R-Grand Rapids) 70% favored a toy" vote. 94 Ken Sikkema (R-Grandville) 900/0 10. Agriculture Budget - A bill to fund the 95 Alvin Hoekman (R-Holland) 90°A> Michigan Department of Agriculture for the year 97 Nancy Crandall (R-Muskegon) 70°A> beginning Oct 1, 1900. The bill increased funding 98 Bill Bobier (R-Hesperia) NA for MDA by approximately $2 million The House 100 Roland Niederstadt (D-Saginaw) 70% passed the bill. MFB favored a ty" vote. 101 Tom Hickner (D-Bay City) 70% % 103 Ralph Ostling (R-Roscommon) 80 NA. - Signifies candidate 104 Thomas Power (R-Traverse City) 60°A> 106 John Pridnia (R-Harrisville) 50% challenging incumbent, 107 Pat Gagliardi (D-Drurrnnond Island) 50°A> no record onjile.

SUMMER 1990, RURAL LIVING 19 &11~rld. Orlando, Florida

Because ...

Michigan Farm Bureau's newest member benefits include discounted tickets to Cedar Point, Kings Island, and the Detroit Zoo!

If you're planning a family vacation - take a look at these great prices! CED\R POINT@ IQngslsland Adult 17.00 Adult - 18.00 Child 11.00 Child - 10.00 (3-6) DETROIT ZOO Adult 4.00 Child 2.00 (5-12)

To purchase your tickets contact your local county Farm Bureau office, or send in the number of tickets requested (adult & child), along with payment to:

Michigan Farm Bureau Membership Services Dept. 7373 W. Saginaw Lansing, MI 48909

Your membership also entitles you to discounts at the following theme parks:

• DisneyLand/DisneyWorld/Epcot/MGM • Busch Gardens • SeaWorld/Cypress Gardens • Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village • OpryLand • DollyWood

To receive discounts at these locations, contact Michigan Farm Bureau, 1-800-292-2680, extension 3237.

!lQlgs lslald,.

~~ AV.-\IL-\BLE N()w! SPECT.-\CUL-\R DISCOUNTS!

~iS winter, experience the perfect get a way! For nine .1~elaxing days, roundtrip from Los Angeles, the superb new Crown Odyssey will take you to the most breathtaking of the festive resorts along the Mexican Riviera. You'll thrill to dazzling Acapulco, feel the romance of Puerto Vallarta and fall in love with sleepy Zihuatanejo. Included is a unique call at the unearthly beauty of Cabo San Lucas at the tip of Baja California. The superb new Crown Odyssey incorporates stunning innovations which have set new standards for shipboard living. Yet for all her elegance, she continues Royal Cruise Line's tradition of warm, friendly service, outstanding cuisine and exclusive features - such as the famed Host Program and American Heart Association cuisine-that are found only on an Odyssey. Reserve early and save!

A8()ARD THE CR()WN ODYSSEY Special Sailing YOUR SPECIAL BONUS AMENITIES! January 12,1991 Personally Hosted by Jack Laurie Michigan Farm Bureau President

CALL Farm Bureau Member Travel Service at 1-800-354-4272

-~- • Zetor's 43, 54 and 66 PTO HP tractors are designed as much for your comfort as they are for your work! • flat operator's deck for easy entry from both sides • panoramic windshield and 2 entry doors in optional cab • ergonomically-designed seat to reduce fatigue • power or power ~assist steering • cast iron chassis for maximum muscle • no-strain price • no-drain operating costs (Zetors are designed for economical maintenance and repair, with fuel-sipping diesel engines, permanent oil and air filters, readily available parts.)

Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. All prices shown (7~ are lo.b. Model 5211.0 $10,575 Model 6245.0 $14,765 5211.2 $12,310 6245.2 $16,700 2 WO, 42.51 PTO HP 4 WO, 53.09 PTO HP ZETOR Model 5245.0 $12,595 Model 7711.0 $14,685 5245.2 $14,340 7711.2 $16,565 4 WO, 42.51 PTO HP 2 WO, 65.7 PTO HP The world's first name for quality farm machines. Model 6211.0 $12,465 Model 7745.0 $18,135 tractors. manure/lime spreaders. drum mowers 6211.2 $14,425 7745.2 $20,055 fork lifts. rotary rakes & tedders. and more 2 WO, 53.09 PTO HP 4 WO, 65.7 PTO HP

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CZECH YOUR BODY HERE:

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MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU PROUDLY ANNOUNCES! Young Farmer Contest Sponsorship by Great Lakes Hybrids, Inc. for the Fourth Consecutive Year

GREAT LAKES

Doug Darling, Monroe County Connie Kramer, Huron County 1989 Michigan Farm Bureau 1989 Michigan Farm Bureau Distinguished Young Farmer GROWING GREAT Outstanding Young A ward Winner Farm Woman Award Winner

Great Lakes Hybrids, Inc., will award a $1500 product certificate to the Michigan Farm Bureau 1990 Distinguished Young Farmer and Outstanding Young Farm Woman winners. * The certificate can be used to purchase various Great Lakes products, including afull line of quality corn, soybean and alfalfa seed varieties.

• F or farm operations that do not use seed products, special arrangements wiU be made. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR COUNTY FARM BUREAU SECRETARY. Get $t00,000, $500,000, or even $t million of life insurance at a low annual cost ...

Big life insurance' policies aren't unusual anymore. You probably could use one yourself at some stage in your life .. -. 'maybe right now. Coverages from $100,000 up to millions of dollars are available at low cost through the new Advantage III policy from Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company of Michigan. Save even more if you qualify for our non-smoker preferred rate. This is term insurance for people who want dependable coverage at the best price they can get. Talk to your Farm Bureau Insurance agent about how Advantage III can fill a big need in your life. Your local agent is listed in the phone book, or call your county Farm Bureau office. Advantage III ... giving you the edge in price, protection, and security . • FARM BIJREAIJ Making your future w &19,m •• @ _JNS.UJ'HI.A,c,r111'_~ ~ FARM BUREAU MUTUAL • FARM BUREAU LIFE • FARM BUREAU GENERAL • FB ANNUITY more predictable

Michigan Farm Bureau Rural Living Magazine Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage P. O. Box 30960 PAID 7373 W. SaginaV\ Grand Rapids, MI Lansing, MI4890 Permit No. 380