% Farm News T H E ACTION P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E M I C H I G A N F A R M BUREAU VOL 59, NO. 1, JANUARY, 1980 Annual Meeting Action Delegates Protest MDA Budget Cuts A young farmer from Eaton ing the delegate action, County, concerned that pro- Michigan Farm Bureau Presi- grams vital to the agricultural dent Elton R. Smith said, industry would fall victim to "Farmers have difficulty com- budget cuts, launched a letter- prehending why programs writing campaign to the gover- which keep our agricultural in- nor of Michigan during the dustry viable, benefit con- MFB annual meeting in s u m e r s and the s t a t e ' s Kalamazoo. Mark Smuts of economy are being threaten- rural Charlotte made a motion ed." that the entire delegate body S m i t h s a i d that t h e recess their policy-making pro- threat of elimination of cedures for 15 minutes while Michigan's meat inspection farmers wrote their letters of program could mean a concern. The motion passed so revival of the "Hot Dog several h u n d r e d letters, War" which was waged postmarked Kalamazoo, were several years ago. The sent to Gov. Milliken urging MDA, with strong support him not to cut those programs of concern from the Michigan from Farm Bureau and con- Department of Agriculture's sumers, was successful in budget. their fight to maintain the state's meat i n s p e c t i o n standards, which far ex- Delegates at the MFB 60th annual meeting protested The farmer concern started proposed MDA budget cuts. As a result, policy-making when Governor Milliken c e e d federal standards. Michigan's meat standards procedures were recessed for 15 minutes while the directed 16 of the state's 19 delegate body wrote letters to Gov. Milliken expressing departments to cut their prohibit the use of pork their concern. budgets by 20 percent. The an- s n o u t s , lips and other fillers in hot dogs and glands, and cereal products in number of slaughter plants go- ticipated cuts in ihe MDA's c o m m i n u t e d m e a t s a n d ing out of business," Smith budget that caused Mark sausages. sausages. Neither farmers nor said. "Many of these businesses Smuts, and other farmers, the "I am certain we would have consumers want that," Smith simply would find the cosi of most concern were in the meat consumers' support again be- told reporters. meeting federal requirements inspection, grain elevator cause lowering our meat stan- "Farmers are also concerned prohibitive. This would not on- audits and weights and dards would mean allowing the that the termination of the ly create a hardship for farmers measures programs. inclusion of such things as ears, state's meat inspection pro- who use and need these In a press conference follow- spleens, lips, snouts, stomachs, gram would result in a great (Continued on Page 24) President's Address "No-Growth" Policy Advocates Rapped In his annual address to advocates of a no-growth forts to establish a philosophy our production will decline. members on November 28, policy. "Many of the problems in the minds of some American Our balance of trade will Michigan Farm Bureau Presi- we are facing in this country are people, Smith warned. "For become even a larger deficit," dent Elton R. Smith challenged brought about because people years, Americans accepted as he told t h e d e l e g a t e s . delegates to make every effort in leadership positions want to fact that profit is the miracle in- "No-growth people fail to see to elect leaders for their nation be important — not great. gredient* in our economic the danger of a continued trade who believe "it is more impor- They believe we should have a system. But thanks to the no- deficit. They do not want to tant to be great than it is to be no-growth policy and are doing growth philosophy, many understand that we cannot important." all they can to see that their Americans often seem embar- keep on spending more money Smith said there is a great philosophy is forced on all of rassed to make a profit," he abroad than is returned to this need for leaders who have the us. The problem is that these said. "This philosophy will kill country. We are becoming courage to do what's right in- people have become well our competitive system." 'hooked' on foreign countries stead of what's popular. "They established under the guise of Smith said the same no- for many of our basic needs, are the discoverers, the con- respectability," Smith said. growth philosophy that has just as an addict becomes structionists, willing to take a "That respectability comes in blocked solutions to the na- hooked on the source of supply calculated risk if it can lead to a the form of being a champion tion's major problems—infla- for his habit. This country, just better society. They are the of consumer rights or an en- tion and energy, is also extend- like the addict, must pay the •*H kind of leaders you and I should make every effort to elect to high offices in our na- vironmentalist. Who can be against consumers or who can be against a clean environ- ed to the use of chemicals, trade, business, land use and other issues of concern to price in one form or another." The only area where the no- growth crowd seems to allow tion," he said. ment?" farmers. growth is the federal govern- The farm leader pointed out No-growth policy advocates •. "If American agriculture is ment, the farm leader said. the dangers of leadership by have been successful in their.ef- denied energy and chemicals, (Continued on Page 25) I l i 111 • 11 I I I II1111 • IT iiiiiiiiiiiiimiiTT T I IE Annual ^980 MFB Meeting Policies Special ••* —Pages 11 23 iTTTTTTi i n l i i i i i i iiiminit um PAGE 2 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1980 From the Desk of the President It's Great to be Important-- But More Important to .be Great (Excerpts from the 1980 MFB President's Address) I'm convinced that many of for less or more efficiently. usual reaction to such a charge rently, that road is blocked by the problems we are facing in Now the no-growth group fears is, "Oh it's not true, we just op- what one writer has called the this country are brought about large corporations as they feel pose nuclear energy or coal "deadly power of delay" because people in leadership large corporations reduce com- mining or oil drilling or which he has labeled as an positions want to be important, petition. However, it is because whatever the issue may be." elaborate trickery game of It seems to me that as I look not great. of the demands by this no- Far too many decisions have rehearings, environmental im- at our society, many people They believe that this coun- growth group that we find small been made solely on social and pact statements, review, hear- believe only that it's great to be try should have a no-growth units unable to produce effi- environmental concerns and ing re-openings and tardy re- important. But if there ever was policy and are doing all they ciently. The no-growth not on the economic issues. quest!; to expand tDe list of in- a time in the history of this na- can to see that their philosophy philosophy will kill our com- This is especially true in the tervenors in the license pro- tion when we needed people is forced on all of us. The prob- petitive system. area of energy. ceedings. who recognize that it is impor- lem is that these people have Now, you might ask, why Recently the U.S. Depart- Based on the concept that it tant to be great, that time is become well established under should ,we be concerned about ment of Interior estimated that is immoral for a species to now. the guise of respectability. That these 'people? My answer is 200,000 species should be multiply and use the natural The word important usually respectability comes in the form that since 1976, people, who listed as either endangered or environment to sustain itself, to means of value or worth. But of being a champion of con- have been identifieq as public threatened under the En- provide relief from hunger,. according to the dictionary, it sumer rights or an environmen- interest lawyers, consumer and dangered Species Act of 1973. cold and disease, we are con- can also mean status or having talist. Who can be against con- environmental advocates, have" Using this law, the anti-energy fronted with a powerful move- an air of weight or authority. It sumers or who can be against a been appointed to positions of lobby succeeded in delaying ment which lacks the in- is in this latter definition that . clean environment? influence and power within the the building of a dam which telligence to differentiate be- many of the so-called impor- These people have worked government. could supply energy to 20,000 tween those threats which are tant people and organizations since the 1960s to gain accep- These people can use their customers. They said the dam 'real and those which are trivial. fit. They are pompous, artificial tance of their ideas and their" positions to assure that we would upset the natural habitat . The no-growth people are and enjoy the prestige of their philosophy. Some of their pro- have no economic growth in of a three inch fish called the opposed to the use of position without working to in- jects may well have been need- this nation. Since every public snail darter. chemicals. They will dismiss crease the worth of that posi- ed, but they went further than project requires plans, pro- Congress is now beginning evidence which does not prove tion. They are the oppor- just working out projects. They posals, environmental impact to recognize that an energy what they want. Unfortunately, tunists in a society. have worked to establish a statements and dealings with crisis exists and that it makes often the public media reports On the other hand, those philosophy in the minds of the dozens of governmental agen- matters worse to disturb the what these people say because who recognize that it is more American people .... cies, all that needs to be done natural habitat of people, is it sensationalized and the un- important to be great, are the For years Americans ac- to stop a project is for someone workers and their families, by suspecting public believes what leaders. They are the people cepted as fact that profit is the in an agency to "require further continuing to delay the project. they hear. who have the courage to miracle ingredient in our study." The project would not only Take for example antibiotics do what's right instead of economic system. But thanks In fact, former Secretary of supply energy but would also in livestock, the banning of what's popular. They are the to the no-growth philosophy, Energy Schlesinger said, "We provide jobsand improve the DDT and 2, 4, 5-T. discovers, the constructionists many Americans often seem have reached a point in the environment of the area. A Time magazine article en- and are willing to take a embarrassed to make a profit. stage of democracy where This favorable development, titled "Drugged Cows - An- calculated risk if it can lead to a A second principle of our almost everyone in the society coupled with President Carter's tibiotics Are Feed for Thought" better society. They are the economic system is competi- can say no, but no one can say proposed Energy Mobilization is typical of the attacks on kind of leaders you and I tion. Competition, when it is yes to a project." Board, may produce a break- agriculture by some of these should make every effort to working, will assure that profits Using this ability to say no, through and enable u.s to get no-growth people. elect to high offices in our na- will not be exorbitant because are some people who are out moving on the road 'towards ABC's "20/20" program tion. someone is willing to produce to change our way of life. Their energy independence. Cur- (Continued on Page 27) . The Farm Press: A Vanishing Breed? Traditionally, in this January the hospital a few blocks away the news media. Some media I'm not downgrading this column, I've shared some instead of covering our meeting are not replacing their farm second group; we need them, behind -the-ann ual-meeting- as he has in previous editors when they leave, not only to reach the non-farm scenes with you. For example, years ..... We miss the presence assigning instead the coverage audience, but to keep us a couple years ago, I shared a of. another farm journalist, less of ag-related events to those honest and open and assured graphic description of one of seriously ill, whose publication already burdened with other that what we believe and what your editors wedged between can't spare another to pinch- responsibilities. we are doing is right. What I the ceiling and door of an in- hit. .. We've spent a good deal of am saying is that this second advertently equipment locked bathroom that contained the audio-visual needed for that ... We appreciate the faithful attendance and outstanding coverage of a reporter from the time in recent years convincing the non-farm press that what's happening in agriculture is group has more economic latitude. They are supported by full-page ads and 60-second DONNA evening's program. This year, local daily, who stays up until 2 "hard" news and worthy of prime time spots from Krogers, your fertilizer, your pick-up? the topic is not so humorous, a .m . to meet his deadline. coverage. That effort has A & P, K-Mart and Meijers. If you have a farm journalist but still worthy of your con- He'd like to be a full-time farm reaped some benefits (our Who supports that vanishing or media really trying to cover sideration, I hope. editor but, for economic Distinguished Young Farmer breed -the farm press? Does the agricultural scene -take One of our behind-the- reasons, his editor can't make made it in all of Detroit's the dealer who sold you your good care of them. Let them scenes activities is working with that commitment. ... We're "biggies"), but there have been tractor, your feed, your seed, (Continued on Page 3) the press and, over the years, thankful for the presence of the a few times when it's also we've developed some close farm editor of the state's largest relationships with those we radio station, but sad that he reaped some bitter harvests. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS There was one occasion when (ISSN 0026-2161) DIRECTORS: District I, Arthur Bailey, fondly call our "regulars. " must return so soon to respon- we wondered, from the results, The Michigan FARM NEWS is published Schoolcrall; District 2, Lowell Eisenmann, monthly. on the lirst day, by the Michigan There were some changes this sibilities beyond that of his ti- if the farm journalist and the Farm Bureau Information Division, Publica. Blissfield, R.l; District 3, James Sayre, Belleville; District 4, Elton R. Smith, year, all of which were not due tle .... We're pleased that others hard-news reporter could tion and Editorial offices at 7373 West Caledonia; District 5, William Spike, Owosso; Saginaw Highway, LanSing, Michigan 48909. District 6, Jack Laurie, Cass City; District 7. simply to the change in loca- can be there for a day, but possibly have been talking Post Office Box 30960. Telephone, Lansing Robert Rider, Hart; District 8, Larry DeVuyst, tion. disappointed they can't afford about the same meeting. (517) 323-7000, Extension 508. SubSCription Ithaca; District 9, Donald Nugent, Frankfort; price, 80 cents per year. Publication No. District 10. Richard Wieland, Ellsworth; Consider: the organization to stay for the full impact of the The farm journalist focused 345040. District II, Herman Robere, Fayette. pays tribute to the memory of a four-day activities. on the "guts" of the farmers, Established January 13, 1923. Second. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter Frahm, class postage paid at Lansing, MI. and at ad. farm broadcaster who spent his What does this tell yoy.? The their philosophy, their caring, ditional mailing offices. Frankenmuth; Michael Pridgeon, Mon. EDITORIAL: Donna Wilber, Editor; Marcia tgomery; Robert Rotller, Fremont. lifetime serving agriculture and farm journalist-whether .print their commitment to their in- Dltchie, Connie Lawson, Associate Editors. WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Vivian hopes the tradition he or broadcast-is in danger of dustry and to their consumers. OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; Lott, Mason. President, Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, R.l; established will be carried on by becoming a va'nishing The straight news reporter Vice President, Jack Laurie, Cass City; Ad. FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS: those he left behind ..... We breed -and the r~asons are focused on "Who's going to ministratlve Director, Robert Braden, Lans. L.C. Scramlin, Holly. Ing; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, POSTMASTER: In uSing form 3579, rpail to: pray for another farm broad- economic. You, .!is farmers, pay?" and "What's your real Max D. Dean: Secretary, William S. Wilkin. Michigan Farm News, 7373 West Saginaw son. Highway, Lansing, Michigan 48909. caster who lies seriously ill in are hit hard by i!1flation; so are motive?" JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 3 MMPA Establishes Subsidiary: McDonald Dairy Company Membership, Interest-Free Loans Offered The state's largest, single processor of dairy pro- remained McDonald members until the day of the "We're advancing over $3 million to the ducts, McDonald Cooperative Dairy Company of co-op's cessation and then signed an MMPA McDonald dairy farmers for the milk they sold Flint, ceased operation as a marketing co-op on membership agreement, have been offered an November 1 through November 24. I'm proud of November 24. Now operating its facilities is a interest-free loan equal to the gross value of milk our MMPA members who have been just great in newly-formed subsidiary of the Michigan Milk Pro- shipped to the McDonald Co-op during the period accepting this interest-free loan arrangement," ducers Association calle.d McDonald Dairy Com- of November 1 through November 24. The loan Lake said. "I think they will welcome this new block pany. will be for a l~-month period, with borrowers of members and that we will have cooperation and Plagued by financial difficulties for the past authorizing MMPA to deduct one-fifteenth of the unity and, consequently, a stronger marketing pro- several years, the McDonald Co-op had reached borrowed sum from each month's milk checks. gram. " the brink of bankruptcy and a close-down of their Lake is concerned that some new reports have The dairy leader called the establishment facilities. With insufficient cash-flow to pay farmers, caused confusion within the dairy industry, of the sllbsidiary, plus the offer of MMPA suppliers, labor, and finance necessary moderniza- especially misunderstanding that the transaction. membership and no-interest loans to former tion of operations, and no more borrowing power, was a merger, which would mean assuming McDonald members "the best course of ac- the McDonald board and management concluded McDonald's liabilities. tion to minimize dairy farmer losses and that the co-op could not continue in business. preserve market stability" for all Michigan dairymen. He said he hoped the McDonald ex- Concerned that the closing of McDonald's "Not a Merger" Says perience would point out the need for members to would cause severe market disruptions and a loss of markets for McDonald member- be knowledgeable about, and actively involved in, producers, MMPAformed the subsidiary and MMPA President Lake the affairs of their 'cooperatives and organizations. purchased the co-op's previously-owned milk Specifically, the assets purchased from the St. bottling and ice cream manufacturing "It is absolutely not a merger," Lake ex- Paul Bank include: the Flint milk plant, equipment facilities. The purchase was made, at net plained. "All MMPAis doi~g is buying and/or and inventory; the Flint ice cream plant, equipment book value, from' the St. Paul Bank of leasing certain assets that we need to con- and inventory; a portion of the transportation fleet; Cooperatives, receiver of McDonald's major tinue to operate as the McDonald Dairy trademarks and trade names, and the Chesaning assets. Company, a separate, wholly-owned sub- mix equipment to be transferred to Flint. MMPA sidiary of MMPA.We're buying from the St. will lease the Benton Harbor plant and certain of MMPA will operate the Flint bottling and Paul Bank of Cooperatives those facilities McDonald's other remaining assets with option to man ufacturing operation and the Benton Harbor that it takes to operate. We're not assuming buy at net book value. pl~nt, which it leases, and plans improvement to any liability for the accounts payable for sup- The move is expected to have minimum impact the facilities "as needed to operate the subsidiary plies or anything else." on the number of McDonald employees, which competitively," according to MMPA President Lake said it was more than just concern for totals about 635. Senior management personnel of Glenn Lake. - - preventing market disruptions that prompted the the McDonald Cooperative Dairy Company have The 735 McDonald dairy farmer members were MMPA's decision to form the subsidiary to continue been employed by the MMPA subsidiary. offered MMPA membership and, at this writing, operations; it was also compassion- for the dairy Dairy farmers involved are encouraged to seek almost 90 percent had accepted. Those who had farmers involved. tax counseling service. Senate Passes DB 4555 ''Ability to Serve Cust011l~rs Challenged" Says Blue Cross-Blue Shield Officials "Never in its 40-year history Whitmer said outside experts the open marketplace would be has Blue Cross-Blue' Shield's testified in the House that the weakened by a number of pro- ability to serve its customers bill could destroy Blue Cross visions, including the revelation been so challenged and poten- and Blue Shield of Michigan as of our trade secrets and draft tially impaire<;l." That's' the it exists today by crippling its board minutes to our com- opinion of BC-BS of Michigan ability to compete. "Stanley petitors. officials of HB 4555, passed Jones, former staff director of "4. The bill virtually recently by the House of Senator Edward Kennedy's guarantees future drastic fluc- Representatives. health. care subcommittee, tuations in rates by failing to Richard E. Whitmer, ecutive vice president, said, "A ex- testified that this bill could destroy our leadership ability in provide a neutral forum for resolving rate cases and by not Look ahead this Winter mlTTl'berof its provisions would cost containment and in pro- setting a time limit for rate deci- be harmful to Blue Cross and viding health care coverage for sions. Though growing season is over and the land is at Blue Shield and bad for health those who find it difficult or im- "5. The decision-making rest. the cold winter months can be the most care in Michigan. It's obvious possible to get coverage power of thousands of productive on your farm. that many House members elsewhere at reasonable costs," Michigan employers would be Use them for planning. for setting goals for the wanted to get rid of this com- he said. usurped by a provision that future. and the return on your winter months may plicated and politically sensitive gives the insurance commis- surprise you. issue by passing it to the Accusing the state Legislature Top managers plan ahead. They decide. of "taking upon itself to sioner the power to mandate Senate. House members' the details of health coverage sometimes with the aid of a lender or other advisor. acknowledged our problems redesign the corporate struc- how things should happen. They shape events ture of a free enterprise cor- for non-union employees. This with the bill and in committee could force employers to switch rather than "letting events shape them. tried to come up with a com- poration," BC-BS will urge the Goals will help you shape events. Make your Senate to correct what officials to other insurance companies promise solution that would not ~ubject to this regulation. goals realistic. Make them for the short run and satisfy everybody. But when it believe are major flaws. Accor- the long run. Some will be large and some will be ding to Whitmer, the bill is defi- "6. Our subscribers alone comes to health care, halfway would have to subsidize senior .small. Make them specific and measurable. so solutions are as bad as no solu- cient in seven key areas: you'll know when you've met them. citizens' health coverage by as tions at all." much as $20 million a year. Look ahead this winter by setting goals for your "1. Our board of directors One company should not have year ahead. Need someone to talk to about goal and its committees would be setting? Try us; we're good listeners. Chances are DONNA straitjacketed by restrictions, its members opened to possible to bear the cost of a general social problem when more than that we can help when it comes to your financial (Continued from Page 2) goals and a line of credit to meet them. harassment, and our chief ex- 300 other cQ.mpanies are know they are important. Let ecutive deprived of a board writing health coverage pro- the people you patronize know vote. fitably in Michigan. Michigan Production Credit Associations they are important to you and "2. There would be a "7. The bill imposes Alma I Bay City / Grand Rapids / S.E. Michigan (Adrian) / conflict-of-interest with the unreasonable and unnecessary Kalamazoo / Lansing / Sandusky / Trav~rse City worthy of their advertising sup- port. The death of the farm state government reaching restrictions on our contingency press would, without doubt, directly into our board room by reserves and investments Farming is 11 have a serious detrimental im- appointing two voting direc- which will tend to diminish in- "~ ,. I everybody's bread pact on your industry. Don't let tors. :ome and thus inflate rates," & butter. • it happen. "3. Our ability to compete in Whitmer concluded. .. - -, \ " f.t \ PAGE 4 FARM NEWS JAN UARY, 1980 ,Crop Loans CAPITOL Tied in UCC Legislature Acts to REPORT Red Tape With the support of several Pro/tect Lan"d Resources lending agencies and the By Michigan Farm Bureau, a bill WETLANDS BILL PASSES (S.B. 3) Robert E. Smith has been introduced by Sena- tor Robert Young, which The wetlands bill, which has been a controver- would eliminate certain pro- sial piece of legislation, has passed in final form visions of the Uniform Com- and is expected to be approved by the governor. mercial Code as applied to New "8 urvelell ance " 'Fees agricultural crop loans. Essentially, the wetlands bill defines a wetland and prohibits draining and dredging without a S.B. 782 was developed permit issued by the Department of Natural after several lenders and Proposed for Agriculture farmers expressed concern Resources. efforts However, in the Senate, through farmers Farm Bureau's have been about provisions of the Uni- exempted from the effects of the bill. Representative Connie' In addition to the water form Commercial Code which Some uses that will be allowed without a permit Binsfield has introduced legis- surveillance fee system, fruit requires a legal description of under the bill are, "farming, horticulture, lation (H. B. 5238) which growers and processors com- each piece of property where silviculture, lumbering and ranching activities would amend certain portions plain that disposal standards crops are to be planted when including plowing, irrigation, irrigation ditching, of the water pollution law fee on. used water from processing applying for an annual crop seeding, cultivating, minor drainage, harvesting system as it affects seasonal, plants are so strict that many loan. In addition, a copy of the for the production of food, fiber and forest agricultural operations. processors have been forced to loan paper must be filed with products, or upland soil and water conservation Michigan fruit growers and relocate in order to apply the Registrar of Deeds. Al- practices. ' , processors who pay substan- processing waste water to the though such information does The bill also exempts the construction or tial fees for testing and anal- soil or to have access to a not in any way constitute a lien maintenance of farm or stock ponds and ysis of waste water from their municipal sewage treatment on the property, it does create "drainage necessary for the production and seasonal processing opera- system. Used water from additional expense and red harvesting of agricultural products if the wetland tions have been seeking relief these operations comes from tape for farmers and land- is owned by a person who is engaged in from the spiralling cost of fruit cooling tanks or pro- owners who agree to acreage commercial farming and the land is to be used for water surveillance fees. cessing, does not contain any rental. the production and harvesting of agricultural - Charges for the surveillance toxic wastes and contains only The bill, which will be products." Another exemption for agriculture program, administered by the natural fruit sugars. These considered when the Legisla- states "maintenance, operation or improvement Department of Natural Re- operations .are seasonal in ture returns from holiday re- which includes straightening, widening or deep- sources, have increased dra- nature and usually are in cess, would eliminate the need ening the following which is necessary for the matically in recent years. progress for approximately 18 to file the loan paper and production or harvesting of agricultural pro- A northern Michigan _fruit days each year. Current water property description with the ducts." This includes: (1) im existing private grower reports that he paid pollution laws give no con- Registrar of Deeds. agricultural drain, (~) a drain legally established $184 in surveillance fees in sideration to this fact. Farm Bureau was alerted to pursuant to Act 40 of 1956, which has been 1975; $1192 in 1978 and the complications caused by constructed or "improved for drainage purposes, expects to pay at least $1400 in Farm Bureau has worked to the existing provisions of the and (3) drains constructed pursuant to other 1979. Michigan is one of the solve this problem by working Uniform Commercial Code provisions of the Wetlands Act. few states to have a surveil- for changes in the regulation, earlier this year. As a result These are the key exemptions of particular lance fee program for pollu- but it is apparent that the law Farm Bureau representatives interest and concern to farmers. tion control. . must be amended. In addition have been working'to develop Before the bill passed it also was amended to In H.B. 5238, Binsfield pro- to supporting Representative recommendations to relieve take effect only in those counties with a poses to amend the fee form- Binsfield's proposed amend- the costly and confusing situa- population of 100,000 or more. There are 17 such ula used by the DNR and to ments, the fa.rm organization tion. Farm Bureau has also counties, primarily in the lower portion of the establish a limit on the charge will work to further relieve or had the support of lenders in state. Other counties, in the northern portion of to seasonal, agricultural oper- eliminate the present un- developing a proposed amend- the state, and in the Upper Peninsula, will not be ations at not more than $600 equitable and discrimatory ment to the law. _affected at all until an il1ventory of wetlands is per year. provisions of the pollution law. completed by the DNR. MDA Audit There were other amendments that are Ag Vehicle Operators. Authority important to those who would be affected by the legislation. Some of those amendments were helpful to the mining industry. The key amend- ment, however, is one that could require the state Look .for Motor Vehicle Proposed to purchase many wetlands, provided that a court determines that a person owning a wetland is Legislation introduced by being harmed by the restriction on its use". In that Code Exemption Representative Francis Spani- ola that would give the Michi- case the court could require the state to pay losses due to the act. Introduced by Representa- public opInIon regarding the gan Department of Agricul- The bill, as passed, will give Michigan some tive Quincy Hoffman, H.B. hazards of double bottom ture additional authority to advantage and permit the state to control the 4878 would exempt farmers tankers on Michigan high- audit grain dealers, has enforcement of federal EP A and Corp of from new provisions of the ways. However, it became passed the Michigan House of Engineers permit requirements. Michigan Motor Vehicle Code apparent when farmers ap- Representatives and has been which would have required a plied for new or renewed favorably reported by a Senate special endorsetnent for dri- driver's licenses, that the committee. LAND RESOURCE INVENTORY (S.B. 443) vers of any vehicle or combi- requirement would also affect As currently written, H.B. nation of vehicles weighing operators of agricultural ve- 4807 would require licensed This bill has been passed by both Houses and over 24,000 Ibs. gross weight, hicles and trailers. dealers, such as elevators and means that Michigan will have a Land Inventory a school bus, or vehicle towing The Hoffman bill would truckers, to keep daily position and Use Analysis Report within three years. a trailer with a loaded weight exempt farmers who drive reports of their transactions. The measure is designed to assist local of over 10,000 Ibs. The re- vehicles under 24,000 Ibs. Three types of transactions governments by making the land inventory quirement would apply to gross weight that have a farm are recognized: cash sales, available in determining local resources and their trailers such as self-unloading price later agreements and best use. It will be used as a base for analyzing registration and will exempt wagons, fertilizer spreaders, warehouse receipts. These future productivity of natural resources and land. trailers used to transport spray rigs, etc. and other provisions would It will be required to be updated at least every ten grain, feed, seed, fertilizer or The special endprsement help protect farmers from years. spray used in agricultural involved a $7.00 fee, addition- losses due to bankruptcy of It is estimated that the state will spend about operations. al written test, road test and grain dealers. $250,000 to design the inventory and $1 million a established an age require- The Michigan Department Farm Bureau has strongly year while the inventory is being conducted. One ment at 18 years of age or of State opposed the amend- supported this proposed legis- of the problems in the past, when land use older. ments to the MVC, however, lation because of the need to programs were considered, was the lack of total The requirements were ad- the bill is expected to receive a provide additional protection information as to exactly what constitutes ded to the Michigan Motor favorable vote in the Legisla- to farmers in their grain Michigan's land resources. Vehicle Code during a surge of ture. dealings. JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 5 A Word .From Washington Farm Bureau on the NATIONAL Chavez Losing Credibility SCENE By Pete Hively people involved in farming, many of them had just arrived Associate Director wanted to know how from Mexicq. Americans were being helped Yet they called him a scab. Senate Repeals Carry-Over Basis Rule: The Senate of Information voted 81 to 4 in November to repeal the carry-over basis by policies that squandered Only jntervention by the local • Cesar Chavez has won some food, and how farm workers police prevented a bloody rule, legislation that would raise taxes for heirs who sell in- impressive rounds at the were being helped by a strike clash. herited property. This rule was enacted in 1976, but later bargaining table, but there are that kept them from working The attack has left its scars. suspended until 1980. growing signs he is suffering a and had occasionally en- Bruno writes, "We live in Farm Bureau strongly supports repeal of the carry-over gradual erosion of support for dangered their lives. fear now. There's violence basis rule and has cited the administrative burden and the himself and his United Farm The most recent blow to throughout the valley." Trac- spectre of greatly increasing capital gains taxes under carry- Workers Union. Continued at Chavez' sagging prestige came tors and equipment have been over. its present rate, this erosion from the WASHINGTON destroyed. Workers have been could become a landslide to STAR, which reproduced a beaten and some have disap- Carter Signs Milk Price Support Bill: President sweep aside the UFW. lengthy letter .from C.C. peared. The worst fear of all, Carter has signed a bill that allows the government to set Bruno, an ex-Marine who now he says, is that the growers will milk price supports between 80 and 90 percent of parity for Here are some examples for works on a lettuce-wrapping sign with the UFW and two more years. In supporting the measure, Farm Bureau your consideration. machine in California. The nonmembers will be forced out emphasized the need to have a national dairy program to Federal funding has been headline, "I Won't Bow to of work. provide an adequate supply of milk, while not encouraging lost for some of Chavez' pet Cesar Chavez" sets the tone of He doesn't blame the overproduction. projects. Chavez himself hand- the article. workers. He understands that ed credit for the loss to the Bruno describes' how he and you must survive, and Federal Crop Insurance: The USDA's all-risk federal Farm Bureau. his co-workers were attacked in sometimes accomodation is the crop insurance program has been expanded to include a lettuce field near Monterey by only means of survival. But he Allegan, Isabella, Kent, Lapeer, Midland and Montcalm The mood toward Chavez 50 strikers, many of them wav- is bitt~r about "ministers and counties in time for the 1980 spring planting according to when he made his recent USDA Secretary Bob Bergland. media blitz of Washington was ing jackhandles. As they surg- politicians" ~ho fail to see that The selection of the counties by USDA's Federal Crop In- palpably different than it was ed toward him, their red flags the Mexican workers; who are leading the way, Bruno was the backbone of the UFW surance Corporation board of directors was based on the just a few months ago. He was reminded of the red flags that movement, are being reduced need to provide additional crop protection in those counties. received at the National Press, charged toward his Marine to subservience by a union that The FCIC program provides producers the opportunity to Club by openly hostile ques- position in Korea, and he is not acting in their best in- insure their major crops, thus guaranteeing themselves an tions. As often as not, his writes, "It was as bad as any terest. established income should those crops be damaged or lost answers were met with mur- day I spent in six years in the Bruno wonders what those due to natural hazards .. murs of disagreement. Marines." ministers would say a few years When Chavez went on a Bruno and his crew had from now should one union Gasohol: USDA Secretary Bergland has announced that television talk show the ques- been on the job for several gain control of the production the U.S. is cooperating with Canada and three European tions from the studio audience months, but many - of the of food and dictate the price of nations to share technology for increased conversion of were frequently a statement of strikers had never been everything that goes on the wood products to alcohol fuel. "The implications' for the opposition of the UFW. The employed by that company. As tables of the rich and poor United States are substantial," Bergland said. He roughly audience, comprised largely of a matter of fact, Bruno says, alike. estimated that the U.S. has 700 million acres of timberland that "could be managed as an energy orchard." State and National Addresses Target Prices for 1980: The Senate Agriculture Com- mittee has agreed to raise the target price for 1980 wheat to Alcohol Fuels Information $3.63 and 1980 corn to $2.35. No change was made in the target price for 1979, as was included in H.R. 3398 passed earlier by the House. The committee also included a one- Below is a list of agencies munities of less than 50,000 governmental agencies con- year extension of the current farm program disaster which have responsibility for p,opulation. <:erning alcohol fuels. payments program, which was not in the House bill. alcohol fuels and a short ex- planation of their involvement. United States Department Senate Committee Okays Foreigners' Land -Sales: National Alcohol Fuels These agencies may be con- of Commerce The Senate Finance Committee has approved legislation Hotline tacted for information and Economic Development Ad- that would req'uire foreigners who buy and sell real estate in Phone (toll free) assistance on producing ministration the U.S. to pay taxes on the profits they make from such (800) 535-2840 or (800) alcohol fuels. Washington, D.C. 20230 sales. The committee's action was in response to complaints 533-5333 Administers the Rural from some U.S. farmers that foreigners were bidding up the Provides the who, what and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Energy Initiative and the Public price of U.S. farmland. where for alcohol fuel informa- and Firearms Works Program to provide fun- tion. The tax would apply to gains on the sale of any real estate Regional Regulatory Ad- ding for farmers, farm co-ops, and would bring the Treasury an estimated $142 million a ministrator public and non-profit organiza- Michigan Department of Com- year. Th'e House Ways and Means Committee will consider 550 Main Street tions. the legislation next year. Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 merce United States Department of Energy Administration Farm Bureau is opposed to preferential tax treatment of Call (toll free) 800-543-1932 Energy 6520 Mercantile Way foreign investments in agricultural land, but supports legisla- The Bureau of Alcohol, Office of Consumer Affairs Lansing, MI tion subjecting foreigners to capital gains taxes on the sale of Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) is U.S. farmland. responsible for administering Washington, D.C. 20585 Phone (517) 374-9090 laws relating to alcohol fuels. or All producers of ethyl alcohol Technical Information Center Michigan Department of F.B. Transportation Bill Introduced: Rep. Tom must obtain a permit from the Oak Ridge , Tennessee 37830 Agriculture Daschle, D.-S.D., has introduced a Farm Bureau-supported ATF before beginning opera- The Department of Energy is Marketing and International agricultural transportation bill. Designated the "Agricultural tion. the leading federal agency for Trade Division Transportation Improvement and Regulatory Reform Act," alcohol fuel research and Agricultural Energy Section the bill would carry out Farm Bureau's policies on truck United States Department development. P.O. Box 30017 transportation problems. The bill results from meetings with of Agriculture Lansing, MI 48909 a wide range of agricultural groups and representatives of Farmers Home Administration National Alcohol Fuels Phone (517) 373-1054 independent truck owner-operators. Room 5420 Commission South Agriculture Building Suite 3000 Additional information is Washington, D.C. 20250 2000 M Street, NW also available from the Com- Washington Addresses (Or contact local office) Washington, D.C. 20036 modity Activities and Research Senators: Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. Administers funding Phone (202) 254- 7453 Department, Michigan Farm 20510. assistance through various pro- A part of the Department of Bureau, P.O. Box 30960, Representatives: House Office Building, Washington, grams for farmers and com- Energy Works with congres- Lansing, MI 48909, phone D.C. 20515. mercial ventures in com- sional committees and other 517 -323- 7000, extension 548. - P;A.Gi: 6 , . 'FARM NEWS -JANUARY, '1980 o YFW Shares Proble11ls Special Pride, Challenges a'}d Joys of Farm Life for Today's Farm Woman "As women of Farm Bureau, we want to be working as an in- tegral part of the total organiza- tion. Farm Bureau needs all of us working together to meet the challenges that agriculture and to make our organization strong," said Vi- face -- vian Lott, chairman of the ,. Michigan Women, Farm at their Bureau annual < meeting in Kalamazoo November 28. Jud' Kissane, Clinton County (left) and Sue Oesterle, Ingham "We as farm women, are County, (right) congratulate each other on being named first and special people," she said. "We second place winners, respectively, in the Young Farmer- are privileged to be partners sponsored Outstanding Young Farm Woman Contest. with our husbands in our farm A Clinton County woman harvest time I drive tractor and business, and can be proud of was selected as the 1980 help in the fields. " She has the important role we hold. Outstanding Young Farm recently accepted responsibility This sense of pride includes be- Women at the Michigan Farm for managing brood sows and ing a partner in the business Bureau annual meeting. Judy litters in the couple's farrow to our family operates. Not all women in our society today JUDGE BETTYANN WEAVER,WOMEN'S KEYNOTESPEAKER Kissane, who will speak on finish hog operation. "By behalf of young Farm Bureau managing this portion of our know and understand their Judge Weaver also en- plex, costly and burdensome to women during the coming operation, I feel that I can husband's business or are in- couraged member involvement the administration of justice year, is active in the county make a real contribution to the volved like farm wives are. We on proposed Juvenile Code and state and local govern- Farm Bureau programs and in profitability of the farm." The can feel special and proud and revisions. Two bills are involv- ments. She is urging support family and youth organizations. Kissanes are farming 525 acres are challenged to do a better ed Substitute HB 4774 and for HB 4959, which she calls a Mrs. Kissane is a weekly com- job," stated Lott. HB 4959. According to Judge more concise approach to in a cash crop and livestock mentator on a local radio pro- operation in rural St. Johns. Keynote speaker at the Weaver, HB 4959 is not being juvenile justice. gram offering insights into .the women's meeting was Judge afforded public hearings nor One of the highlights of the current issues affecting Future plans for the couple Betty Ann Weaver, probate extensive media coverage, and women's annual meeting was agriculture. She is the adoptive include expansion of their hog and juvenile judge for that is one of the reasons she the recognition of county mother of seven children rang- operation. According to Judy, Leelanau County. Judge . asked for concerned member women's chairmen who won ing in ages from 2 years to 9 the decision making and future Weaver shared her views on involvement in writing to gold stars for programs con- years. planning for the family farm are the juvenile justice system with legislators, Governor Milliken ducted during the 1978-79 "I'm really on the go with shared equally. "After all," she the women, stating that the and members of the House membership year. Prior to four pre-schoolers to car~ for says, "we both share in the risk system deals with young peo- Judiciary Committee, to ex- recognition of the individual and stepping in to help during of investment and we work ple before, during and after press their concern. chairmen, Betty Laurie of the spring and fall season," together to set priorities and their becoming involved with Judge Weaver says the pro- Tuscola County provided a says Judy. "In planting and responsibilities on o,:!r farm." the law. cedural requirements of HB unique rendition of "Hats Off 4774 are unnecessarily com- to Farm Bureau Women." Honors and Cooperative Policy Officers Elected Highlights of MAFC Annual The 34th annual meeting of the Michigan Association of Farmer Cooperatives (MAFC) ~~ I was held December 7 at the I ) Lansing Hilton Inn. One of the featured speakers at the meeting was Dr. Randall { Torgerson, ministrator U.S. Agriculture. deputy for cooperatives, Department Torgerson ad- of ad- I dressed the main points in the proposed amendment Farm Credit Act of 1971, which is now being considered by the U. S. Congress. Also appearing on the pro- to the fJ'~ a~ Elected to the 1980 Farm Bureau Women's Executive Com- mittee were, left to right, Jan Stoner, Cass County, second vice chairman; Vivian Lott, Ingham County, chairman; and Faye Adam, Sanilac County, first vice chairman .. Vivian Lott of Ingham Coun- Committee in 1975. gram was Michigan Depart- I~ ty was re-elected chairman of Adam and her husband, ment of Agriculture Director the Michigan Farm Bureau Wayne, operate a 320-acre Dean Pridgeon. who spoke on Frank Carpenter, manager of the Leslie Cooperative, hie. (left) presents LACheney the MAFC "Appreciation of Service" award Women's Committee during farm near Snover, specializing fuels derived from agricultural for his 25 years of service to the Association. their re-organization meeting in beef and corn. She has been resources. Pridgeon stated that held at the MFB annual involved in women's ,activities during the coming year, an scholarship fund for college Association of FF A. The award meeting in Kalamazoo at the county, district and state energy section within the MDA . students seeking careers in was earned for their classroom November 29. Faye Adam, levels, including the Speakers' will be working with the farm cooperatives. instruction in cooperatives and Sanilac County, was re-elected Bureau. agricultural community in the Two awards were presented other agribusiness organiza- first vice-chairman, and Jan Jan and Roger Stoner development of alcohol and at the meeting recognizing tions, as well as their Stoner, Cass County, has operate a 700-acre dairy farm wood energy. those who have made con- cooperative experience in elected second vice-chairman. near Jones. She has been ac- MAFC delegate action dur- tributions in the past year in marketing and purchasing sup- Lott and her husband, Mar- tive in the women's program, ing the meeting included the promoting Michigan plies from cooperatives. vin, operate a 750-acre dairy policy development and has passage of an amended resolu- cooperatives. The Hopkins The "Appreciation of Ser- farm near Mason. She has served on the Cass County tion in support of the proposed FF A chapter received the vice" award was presented to been active on various commit- Farm Bureau board, in addi- amendment to the Farm Credit "Cooperative Activity Award," -LA Cheney, who served as ex- tees including women's, policy tion to serving as a Women's Act of 1971, in addition to which is presented each year ecutive secretary of MAFC for development, cO,mmunity Committee representative on' directing the MAFC Council to by the MAFC sponsors, in 25 years until his retirement in group and safemark; she also the 1979 MFB Policy Develop- pursue the establishment of a cooperation with the Michigan August, 1979. served on MFB's State Study ment Committee. Vehicle Code during a surge ot rure. dANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE" 7 FBS Studying Possible Merger Geiger, McKenzie, Tormoehlen with Landmark of Ohio Elected to FBS Board Farm Bureau Services, Inc., Delegates to the fiftieth Farm McKenzie operates a 2,000 entered its second half-century Bureau Services, Inc., annual acre corn and farrow to finish of continuous operation after meeting named Gerald Geiger, hog operation in Cass County. what its president called, dur- Huron County; Keith McKen- He is currently serving as a ing the cooperative's annual zie, Cass County; and Arthur director of the Michigan meeting in Kalamazoo,. Nov. Tormoehlen, Lenawee County Livestock Exchange and is a 27, "our share of blood, 'sweat to serve two year terms on the member of several state and and tears." cooperative's board of direc- local farmer advisory commit- Elton R. Smith told tors . tees. He is a member of the . stockholders and members at- Cass County Planning Board. tending the meeting that the Geiger, an incumbent original charter of incorpora- member of the Services board tion for Farm Bureau Services has also served on the board of Tormoehlen has served was dated October 25, 1929. directors of the Michigan Lenawee County farmers as ~'Just four days later, the nation Association of Farmer manager of the Blissfield Co-op experienced the great stock Cooperatives and is currently a Company for 15 years and as a market' crash which preceded board member of the Thumb director of the Michigan Feed the depression of the 1930s. Co-op terminal. He is the and Grain Dealers Association. What courage it must have re- ELTON R. SMITH manager of the Ruth Farmers' He is a past director of the quired to stick to it and behind us." There has also Michigan farmer." Elevator in Huron County. Farm Bureau Services, Inc. persevere .in organizing a been double-digit inflation A merger with another fledgling cooperative while the which put unequalled cooperative, he said, could national economy was crashing ," he said. pressures on the profitability of help ensure the availability 'of Landis, Harris Elected all types of U.S. businesses, efficient, up-to-date facilities for -Next came the late 30s when Smith said, including Farm the nation's -banks closed, Bureau Services. storing and expediting the thousands of mortgages were "In this day and age of. high marketing of farmers' products, and also help ensure a depen- to FPC Board of Directors foreclosed and farmers were inflation and interest rates, it dable source of quality supplies Voting delegates to the ty Farm Bureau board of direc- unable to sell their products, becomes increasingly difficult Smith related. "Compared with for businesses to maintain effi- at competitive prices. Farmers Petroleum tors. those early depression days of ciency on a small scale," the Smith reported that a com- Cooperative, Inc., annual Farm Bureau Services.any pro- meeting held November 27, Landis operates a 600 acre co-op leader said. mittee has been appointed to blems we now have look pale elected Jay Landis of Calhoun dairy and cash crop farm in "Accordingly, we have seen investigate the possibility of a indeed ," he said. County and incumbent board Calhoun County. He has been over recent years, many merger with Landmark, Inc., More recent problems of the member Neil Harris of Saginaw active in the Michigan Farm business mergers. The board of an Ohio Farm Bureau farm cooperative have included the County to serve two year terms Bureau organization serving as directors believes a merger may supply and marketing affiliate. lingering aftermath of the PBB on the cooperative's board of past board member of the Mar- be one of the viable alternatives problem, which the farm leader that will provide the strength "This committee will be directors. shall Farm Bureau Oil Com- said "has now been largely put and efficiency to best serve the meeting over the weeks ahead pany and past vice chairman of with representatives of Land- Harris, who operates a 360 the Michigan Farm Bureau . Young Farmer Committee. NABA Needs Support mark and possibly representatives of other similar with acre cash crop farm in Saginaw County, is currently president Landis was recognized by his "Enactment of national farm the state's U.S. Senators have cooperatives to determine, of the Chesaning Farmers' local Jaycee chapter as bargaining legislation must be a indicated they will co-sponsor after a sufficient amount of Cooperative Elevator. He is a Outstanding Young Farmer goal for our association," Elton identical legislation. study, if such a merger would member of the local township and was first runner-up in the R. Smith, president of the be practical and desirable, II board of review and is a past Michigan Jaycee Outstanding "We need to intensify our ef- Michigan Agricultural Smith said. member of the Saginaw Coun- Young Farmer competition. forts in 1980 to keep the bill Cooperative Marketing moving in Congress," Smith Association, told members at- tending MACMA's 19th annual said. "The key to success will Co-ops Perform Vital Function be the united effort of in- meeting at Kalamazoo Center dividuals who believe in the The need has never been November 28. need for this kind of legislation greater for farmers to band "For processing fruits and and are willing to take the time together cooperatively, to vegetables, farm bargaining to express that need. II utilize their combined legislation is absolutely resources, to protect necessary to provide a legal Smith said in view of the themselves, their investments, basis for effective bargaining ," latest USDA predictions that and their capacity to fulfill the Smith said in his report. "We farm costs will be up 11 percent nation's food needs, said the realized that fa'ct back in 1972 in 1980 and farm income is ex- president of Farmers when the united efforts of pected to be down eight per- Petroleum Cooperative. Michigan Farm Bureau and cent, possibilities for passage of In his report to stockholders MACMA members resulted in the bill might be strengthened. at the cooperative's annual the enactment of P. A. 344. "We support the enactment meeting, on November 27, That state farm bargaining act,' of H.R. 3535 not because P.A. FPC President Elton R: Smith the first of its kind in the nation, 344 is in itself deficient in any said, "The ransoming of crude has been of considerable value. manner," Smith explained. oil by the OPEC cartel has The experiences of our associa- "Farmers and their marketing escalated fuel prices for . tion have proven that bargain- associations all over the nation everyone and contributed to ing legislation is a realistic ap- should have the provisions of double-digit inflation. Our proach to enable farmers to im- farm bargaining legislation cooperative h~s been obliged prove their incomes in the available for their use if they to cope with turmoil and uncer- Speaking on "Fanners and Co-Ops," Henry Schriver, Ohio's marketplace. II desire. The prices and other tainity in the petroleum in- Farmer Philosopher, addressed the FRS /FP.C luncheon on H.R. 3535, the National terms of trade which we dustry and yet fulfill its basic November 27 during the two affiliated companY's annual Agricultural Bargaining Act of meetings. establish through negotiations purpose of supplying oil and 1979, introduced in Congress are limited by the prices being gasoline to Michigan farmers." times of petroleum shortage cially sell gasohol to customers earlier this year, has the active paid to producers in competing Not only has that purpose and skyrocketing prices, this was a milestone, not only for support of the nation's four production areas. Our process- been met, Smith said, but in protection becomes vital. II the cooperative, but for the leading farm organizations - ing apple prices cannot greatly times of crisis, the farmer- The FPC president said that state's petroleum industry, National Grange, National exceed the prices in the Eastern owned cooperative exerts great the decision of Farmers Smith said. Farmers Union, National states, or our Michigan pro- influence in protecting the Petroleum to engage in its own "By taking leadership in in- Council of Farmer cessors will be non -competitive common interests of farmers. crude oil production was a wise troducing Agrihol (FPC's brand Cooperatives, and the in selling apple products. The "By putting farm production one, assuring at least partial name), Farmers Petroleum has American Farm Bureau associations in the East need to needs foremost ,our self-dependence against the demonstrated its' ag- Federation .. Eight Michigan be accredited under national cooperative fills a need just not "topsy-turvy fluctuations of gressiveness in helping to solve Congressmen are among the legislation to be effective in available from the oil industry world oil markets." the fuel needs of its bill's co-sponsors and both of achieving profitable prices." at large," Smith said. "And in Being the first to com mer- customers," he said. PAGE 8 JANUARY, 1980 "America's Critical Choice" Ritchie Inspires Presidents, Campaign Managers "America's Critical "That's because so many have happening right now in Great 1'1"' Choice" was the topic of Steve Ritchie of the Adolph Coors Company as he spoke to a gathering of county Farm Bureau membership presidents campaign and worked so hard under a free market, dividual profit initiative, motive, in- incentive reward, capitalistic system," he said. "I think you and I have to be prepared and willing to fight Britain." He talked about the politics of "buying votes by attacking profits" and said America~ must understand that their rm needs are met, supported and managers at the MFB annual to preserve, protect and defend financed by business and com- meeting. Ritchie told the group our system of freedom. merce - not by government. that Americans need an Because during the entire Ritchie called it "absolutely in- awareness of what they have history of the world, individual credible" that Americans na- and what they may lose if they freedom has been the most tionwide believe the average foresake their individual and in- fragile of commodities." profit of U.S. business and in- dependent spirit to "toy with Ritchie noted that a recent dustry is more than 33 percent. political regulation." nationwide survey showed that "Students think that it is over One of the most decorated less than four percent of 48 percent while the real figure men in U.S. military history, he Americans believe .free enter- is less than five percent. Last served as a fighter pilot during prise has anything to do with year it was 4.7 percent, but the Vietnam conflict, and now their pesonal freedom. what is worse is that this in- takes his message on preserv-. "Freedom without self- credible ignorance is increasing ing America's competitive discipline won't work. Free rather than decreasing," he private enterprise system to au- people get spoiled. demanding said. diences throughout the nation. more and more for less and less To dispel ignorance of the Ritchie noted that while we until economic collapse. And forces which can destroy have less than seven percent of yes, it could happen here," he private enterprise and the the world's population, we warned. "It has happened in 'freedom it sustains is the only have over 50 percent of the every other nation or state in hope for America's future, he STEVE RITCHIE world's material benefits. history. It's on the razor edge of concluded. Top County in Program Achievement 60- Year Members Chippewa Scores Again! Honored at Annual John Kronemeyer, Chip- Three-star presidents includ- In addition to the presenta- pewa County Farm Bureau ed Harold Borowicz, tion of the gold-star awards, president, made another trium- Cheboygan, for membership, five county Farm Bureau phant walk to center stage at policy development and com- presidents were hono'red for, the awards program during the munity groups; Don Witt, Clin- winning the President's Golden MFB annual meeting to accept ton, for membership, informa- Award Trophy. the top award for program tion and community groups; The' trophies. are earned by achievements. Ted Kneebush, Hillsdale, for counties which have made Sixteen county presidents membership, policy develop- membership and target goals were recognized for winning ment and local affairs; Elmer and have the highest percen- two gold stars and up in various Gowell, Oceana, for member- tage of members participating program areas by master of ship, young farmers and com- in these member-only pro- ceremonies Scott Killgore, farm modity; and Luke Schaible, grams: Mutual Auto, Workers editor for WJR radio and last Washtenaw, for membership, Compensation, Farm Record- year's MFB "Agricultural Com- women and safe mark. keeping,' Member Life, Blue President Elton Smith (right) congratulates Mr. and Mrs. municator of the Year" reci- Two-star presidents were Cross-Blue Shield, FBS/FPC Earl Morehouse on being 60 year members of Michigan pient. Howard Haven, Jackson, for Rebate Purchase Card, Wheat Farm Bureau, during the organization's 60th annual membership and policy execu- Pool and Safemark group pur- meeting. This was the sixth con- tion; Larry Leach, Kalamazoo, chasing. Earl Morehouse, Van Buren County, served as proxy secutive year Chippewa has for membership and communi- The 1979 winners were during the awards program at the MFB annual meeting for been named top county Farm ty groups; Steven Carlson, Russell Nelkie, losco County; all members who have belonged to Michigan Farm Bureau Bureau in the state, this year Kent, for membership and local Gary Hoyt, Midland County; for the past 60 years. receiving eight gold stars for affairs; Duane Stevens, Mont- Elmer Gowell, Oceana Coun- "This is the 60th annual meeting of the Michigan Farm membership, information, morency, for membership and ty; Fred Erhorn, Ottawa Coun- Bureau," said Scott Killgore, WJR farm editor, who served policy development, policy ex- young farmers; Robert ty; and Elwood Kirkpatrick, as M. C., "so it seems appropriate to honor those members ecution, local affairs, women, Gregory, Northwest Michigan, Huron County. who made their commitment to Farm Bureau 60 years commodity and community for membership and informa- Following the awards pro- ago. " groups. gram, entertainment was pro- tion; and Robert Karts, Morehouse, selected for this special honor because of his Giving Chippewa County a Ogemaw, for membership and vided by the Paul Caldwell strong support of the organization for the past 60 years, real run for their money was young farmers. Show. received a specially-designed memento which is also Sanilac County, which receiv- available to all other members who have been members of ed seven gold stars. Sanilac Michigan Farm Bureau for 60 years. president Wayne Wood's If you have been a member of Michigan Farm bureau for award-winning committees 60 years, and would like to receive this special memento, fill were membership, policy out the coupon below and send it to Michigan Farm Bureau, development, policy execu- Information & Public Relations Division, P.O. Box 30960, tion, local affairs, young Lansing, MI 48909. farmers, commodity and women. A 7TENTION 60 YEAR MFB MEMBERS! Four-star presidents in the spotlight were Albert Cook, In- Please complete this coupon and return to the address gham County, for member- below for your 60-year-member gift of appreciation. ship. information, young Return to: Michigan Farm Bureau, Information and Public farmers and women; Gerald Relations Division,- P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, MI 48909. Grobbel, Macomb County, for Name _ membership, policy execution, policy development and com- 11- munity groups; and Bud Address _ Chippewa County President John Kronemeyer accepts Beeler. Newaygo County, for congratulations and his county's awards from MFB Presi- membership, information, dent Elton Smith for being the top county in 1979 program I' Zip I women and local affairs. achievements. , • "'{) .., ( I JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS A grlr en ac. B rea kfias t "D .LJJg e Success " President Smith Re-Elected F N B d M mh our ew oar e ers Michigan Farm Bureau's first ported candidates for political Elton R. Smith "OfCaledonia, breakfast will be used to help three children. District 11 in - --- AgriPac breakfast, held office. Kent County dairy farmer who elect "Friends of Agriculture" cludes Chippewa, Copper November 29 in conjunction Proceeds of the AgriPac has headed the state's largest in the 1980 elections. Country, Hiawathaland, Iron with the annual meeting, was farm organization since 1964, termed "a big success" by Range, Mackinaw-Luce and was re-elected as president of Menominee counties. Robere chairman Larry DeVuyst. .More the Michigan Farm Bureau on delegates wanted to attend the replaces Frank Schwiderson of Friday, November 30. The ac- Dafter. breakfast than there were tion took place during the tickets available-an indica- Scramlin operates a reorganizational meeting of the 650-acre dairy and hog opera- tion, DeVuyst said, that the 16-member board of directors program is gaining acceptance tion. He has served on the in Kalamazoo, following the county Young Farmer Com- and will be supported by close of the Michigan Farm members. mittee, was the district Discus- Bureau annual meeting. sion Meet winner and a finalist During the breakfast ac- Also re-elected was Jack tivities, Congressman Guy in the Distinguished Young Laurie of Cass City as vice Farmer contest. He is also ac- VanderJagt inspired members president and Donald Nugent, to become more politicaIly ac- tive in 4-H and the Michigan Frankfort, third member of the Duroc Association. L. C. and tive. Representative Loren board's executive committee. Armbruster received AgriPac's his wife, Jackie, former state Voting delegates to the Farm Bureau queen, have one . "Friend of Agriculture" award organization's 60th annual for scoring 100 percent voting son. Scramlin replaces David meeting also re-elected Arthur Conklin of Owosso. record on the 19 issues used in Bailey, Schoolcraft, to repre- determining "Friends." And St. Vivian Lott and her hus- sent District 1, which includes band, Marvin, operate a Clair County Farm Bureau Berrien, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. member Carol Lauwers was 750-acre dairy family farm. Joseph, and Van Buren coun- She has been active in county, honored with the AgriPac ties; William Spike, Owosso, "Booster" award for personaIly district and state women's ac- representing District 5, in- tivities and was elected chair- seIling over 100 tickets to the cluding Clinton, Eaton, fundraiser in Fowlerville last man of the Farm Bureau Genesee, Ingham and Women's Committee last year. year. Shiawassee counties; Robert She has also been active in At a press conference follow- Rider, Hart, District 7, which .ing the breakfast, DeVuyst told policy development and com- ....;....J includes Mason, Mecosta, munity group activities and reporters he believed AgriPac Montcalm, Muskegon, would have even more impact Congressman Guy VanderJagt was the keynote speaker served on MFB's most recent at the first AgriPac breakfast, held in conjunction with the Newaygo, Oceana and state study committee. The on the outcome of the 1980 Osceola counties, and Donald MFBannual meeting. The congressman urged members to .Lotts have four children. She elections than it did in 1978, -become more politically active. - Nugent, Frankfort, District 9, when 66 of the 73 candidates replaces Claudine Jackson on including Benzie, Kalkaska, the board. designated as "Friends of Manistee, Missaukee, North- Other officers re-elected Agriculture" were successful in west Michigan and Wexford. their campaigns. were William Wilkinson. East counties. Lansing, secretary; Max D. "We have found that our en- Elton Smith represents dorsement as 'Friends of Dean, Okemos, treasurer and District 4 - Ottawa, Kent, chief financial officer, and Agriculture' is important and Ionia, Allegan and Barry coun- appreCiated by candidates, and Robert E. Braden, Byron, was ties, and Jack Laurie reappointed administrative it has also been a motivator for represents District 6 - Huron, legislators to be responsive to director and assistant secretarv. Tuscola, Lapeer, Sanilac, St. our positions on issues, which Clair and Macomb counties. In Memoriam: are based on farmer-developed Also re-elected to serve as a policies," DeVuyst said. director-at-Iarge on the "Farmers, I strongly believe, will begin to think of political organization's board was Delegates Michael Pridgeon of Mont- clout in Lansing and in Washington, D.C. as a gomery, Branch County. Newly-elected to the board Honor necessary tool for .their farming were James Sayre of Belleville, ~ operations," he. told reporters. "More and more of them t;~~ representing District 3; Herman Robere, Fayette, representing Heath Delegates at the 60th annual realize that already, and are ~ District 11; L.C. Scramlin, Hol- meeting of Michigan Farm willing to commit both financial ~ , Iy, representing Farm Bureau Bureau paid tribute to Howard and educational resources to r ... Young Farmers, and Vivian Heath, founder of the Michigan the election of those who are Lott, Mason, representing Farm Radio Network and reci- proven friends of agriculture." Farm Bureau Women. AgriPac chairman Larry DeVuyst (left) presented the pient of Michigan Farm In 1978, when AgriPac was AgriPac "Friend of Agriculture" award to Rep. Loren Arm- Sayre operates a 475-acre Bureau's first "Agricultural formed, it was the first time in bruster at the AgriPac Breakfast held during the MFB an- farm specializing in strawber- Communicator of the Year" the organization's history that nual meeting for scoring 100 percent voting record on the ries, vegetables and cash crops, award. The farm broadcaster Farm Bureau active.1y sup- issues used in determining "Friends." and also has a roadside passed away several weeks market. He has served on ago, and as President Elton R. various county and state Farm Smith said in his presentation Bureau committees, as county to Heath's daughter, Mary "Fabulous 15" Honored president and was on the MFB board of directors for seven years. He and his wife, Joan, Heath White, "We agriculture will miss him great- ly. " in have five sons. District 3 is A plaque was presented to Members of the prestigious during the banquet: composed of Livingston, White to share with her family; and Terry Slocum, Montcalm; "Fabulous Fifteen" club were in In the 1 to 350 membership Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw it reads "Special Com- Cloral Beeler, Northwest the spotlight at the County category - Foster McCool, and Wayne. Sayre replaces municator Award in memory of Michigan; and Ray Doty and Presidents' and Campaign Kalkaska; Betty and Lyle Harold Swiler, Ionia. Andrew Jackson of Howell. Howard Heath, Michigan Farm Managers' Banquet at the Robinson, losco; and Don Robere farms 500 acres, Radio Network, for his lifetime Michigan Farm Bureau annual In the 1201 to 1500 category specializing in cash crops. He of service to Michigan Davis and Don Bay, Clare. meeting. - Duane Wagner, Lapeer; has been active in Farm Bureau agriculture. " In the 351 to 650 category Alvin Gaertner, Monroe; and since 1964, serving as county President Smith also an- Exclusive membership in this -Stan and Anna Marie Stemp- Richard DeKleine, Ottawa. president, policy development nounced that the Michigan club is reserved for those three ky, Cheboygan; Richard In the largest member committee chairman, member- Farm Bureau will be making a counties in each membership Beck, Ogemaw; and Wayne category, 1501 and over, ship chairman and community contribution to the Howard category which are first to Thompson, Muskegon. Robert Kissane, Clinton; Ed- group offices. He and his wife, Heath Farm Broadcasting reach goal. The foIlowing cam- In the 651 to 1200 member ward Hebeler, Saginaw; and EIlen, who serves on the state scholarship at Michigan State paign managers were honored category-Audrey Quisenberry Delbert Roberts. Huron. women's committee, have University. PAGE 10 FARM NEWS JAN UARY, 1980 Speaks on Managing Resources Incentives Needed for Brickley AddressesMFB Delegates Gasohol ProductIon .. An executive-level commit- The American people would the question is - do we pay tee is studying the needs and buy gasohol if it were readily that money to foreigners or do problems of Michigan cities and available, according to senior we pay it to our, own coun- rural areas in an effort to check . research economist, Dr. trymen? Every time the Arabs the uncontrolled growth of ur- William E. Ridd]e of Battelle In- increase the price of oil, the ban areas and to preserve stitute: A speaker at the com- economic gap narrows." Michigan's land resources, Lt. modity session at the MFB an- Alcoho] fuels can help ease Governor James Brickley told nual meeting, Dr. Riddle said the petroleum shortage if pro- farmers at the Michigan Farm demand for gasohol has not ducers, processors and con- Bureau annual meeting in decreased since its introduc- sumers are provided with in- Kalamazoo, November 29. tion, but the available supply centives, Riddle said. For pro- Brickley, who heads the has not been as much as ducers, those incentives should Community Development originally anticipated. include direct payments, in- - Cabinet, said the issue of com- vestment credit on equipment "Gasohol is a very American munity development could be and land improvement, and a , type of commodity to pur- summarized in two succinct classified pricing system. For chase, particularly when you sentences: "Our farmland, processors,' incentives should consider that over 50 percent forests, and open spaces, include investment credit, an of our oil is imported," he said. which for centuries seemed excise tax on regular gasoline, "This is using American pro- limitless, are suddenly in short government financial help for ducts to free ourselves from im- supply. Ofder sections of our the first production facility, and ports, and people tend to sup- towns and villages have begun government procurement prac- port a product that supports the to deteriorate while often un- tices, he said. Tax credits on American free enterprise controlled growth continues on fuel and automotive purchases, system. The big problem with the fringe areas. and an excise tax on gasohol is that we don't have "We cannot afford to trade in nonalcohol fuels would provide an adequate supply of alcohol our communities every genera- incentives for consumers, the to mix with the unleaded fuel tion, moving our population research ec;:onomistsaid. and that tends to make it a farther away from the The U.S. could be stronger short supply commodity, not buildings, roads, offices and . agricu]turally, less dependent available on a regular basis." businesses in which we have in- on Midd]e East' oil, inflation vested trillions of dollars," he Riddle said that although it could be reduced, and a real said. may not be economical to pro- contributioD made to future in- "In southeast Michigan, we LT. GOVERNOR JAMES BRICKLEY duce gasohol currently, "I think dependence if these incentives are constructing 30,000 new developed areas; encouraging Quality directed federal agen- we all realize we're going to were provided, Riddle con- dwellings a year. While the the conservation and revitaliza- cies to curtail any projects that have to pay more for fuels and cluded. population is growing by less tion of neighborhoods; could lead to.the loss of prime than 24,000 households a strengthening local gover- agricultural lands. The director MFB Receives Recognition year. We have built 278 new nance; and preserving prime of the Farmers Home Ad- schools since 1970, while near- ly 400 school buildings have agricultural and environmental- ly sensitive areas. ministration Office in Michigan has announced that his agency from Legislature, State Police been abandoned in the same "There is no question in my will not make home mortgage period because of declining mind," said Brickley, "that ef- loans that could convert enrollment, declining revenue forts to maintain prime farmland to other uses. and deterioration, " reported agricultural land are not Brickley also pointed to the Brickley. misplaced. success of Mic:higan'sFarmland The loss of human and "The encroachment of and Open Spaces progra!Tl financial resources to our cities development into rural areas which extends tax credits to is paralleled by the loss of victimized the farmer more farmers who commit their land Michigan's agricultural land in than anyone else .... As more to continued farming for a those fringe areas. "In and more farms are swallowed minimum of ten years. That Michigan a]one," said Brickley, up by indiscriminate sprawl, program, said Brickley, has "more than 100,000 acres of fewer and fewer remain enrolled one million acres of cropland are lost annually. One isolated from skyrocketing farmland as of September 1, third of this is in the urban property taxes. Farmers are 1979. fringe of our cities and this heavily taxed to support ser-. On the unfinished agenda same fringe land provides more v~es they neither need nor for better management of our than 20% of our food supp]y." Our society, he said, "never want, but which are required land resources, said Brickley, by the developers and the peo- proposals are being studied to . learned to place a value on pie moving into their aras. It is encourage more efficient land In recognition of the MFB Rural Crime Prevention Pro- what we have; we greedily no exaggeration," he con- use patterns, concentrate gram, President Elton Smith received a copy of House steal from future generations C4:urrent Resolution 451 fr0lD 56th District Represen- tinued, "to say that in many development in urbanized the resources they will need." tative Ernest Nash. The resolution recognizes Farm Bureau cases farmers have literally areas, and improved land members', active participation In Implementing Innovative While praising farmers for been forced to quit farming management techniques to and successful crime prevention piOgrams In rural areas. having "long known the value simply because the'ir land has reduce spraw], unregulated of land," Brickley said others become too valuable." development and wasteful use are just now coming to fully ap- Consumers, too, he said, are of resources. preciate its value. "Modem hard hit by declining farm According to Brick]ey, the society has an obligation to acreage. governor has directed a review assure that our natural en- "It does not take an eX-of land use and development vironmenta] systems, recrea- perienced economist to figure policies in the departments of tional areas' and communities out the effects of diminishing Public Health, Natural are protected .... Our children land and food supply on the Resources, Agricu]ture and in and grandchildren have a right price of the products .... Ris- the Transportation Commis- to the resources that are tem- ing gas and diesel fuel prices sion. porarily placed in our custody alone added $200 million to "The governor and the today," Brickley continued. the nation's total food distribu- Community Development He told the Farm Bureau tion costs during the first half of Cabinet will continue to members that the governor has 1979. " monitor the policies of state established four principles to Some progress has already agencies to ensure that our guide state government toward been made in checking the goals are realized. We willwork better management of our disruptive effects of urban to assure that the levers and resources. The goals are im- sprawl into rural areas. In 1976 programs controlled by state Lt. Col. William Hassinger, chief deputy director of the proving the fiscal stability, at the federal level, he government are working in Michigan State Police, congratulates Ron Nelson, local economic resources, and reported, the President's harmony toward these goals," a ffairs specialist, for development of Rural Crime Pr\ven- physical conditions of already Council on Environmental Brickley said in conclusion. tion programs. JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 11 1980 Michigan Farm Bureau Policies preciate that much proposed legislation not in the PURPOSE OF FARM BUREAU best interest of agriculture has not been adopted or has been amended. Farm Bureau is a free, independent, nongovern- mental, voluntary organi?ation of farm and ranch families united for the purpose of analyzing their problems and formulating action to achieve Agriculture education improvement, economic opportunity, MARKETING AND BARGAINING and social advancement and, thereby, to promote LEGISLATION the national well-being. Farm Bureau is local, The Michigan Agricultural Marketing and statewide, national, and international in its scope Bargaining Act (P .A. 344 as amended) has proven and influence and is nonpartisan, nonsectarian, to be a fair and equitable procedure through which and nonsecret in character. marketing and bargaining associations and pro- cessors negotiate fruit and vegetable prices and RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE MICHIGAN other terms of trade. We support: FARM BUREAU BOARD OF DELEGATES, 1. Amendments to P.A. 344, which would clarify 60TH ANNUAL MEETING, KALAMAZOO, NO- where necessary the provisions and procedures VEMBER 27-30, 1979. representatives of every state Farm Bureau. to make it more workable. Michigan's recommendations will also serve as a 2. Action to assist farmers in other states in the FOREWORD guide for our voting delegates to the forthcoming development and the enactment of state annual convention of the American Farm Bureau marketing and bargaining legislation. Our Michigan Farm Bureau is starting its 61st Federation. 3. Enactment of proposed national farm bargaining year of service to agriculture in Michigan. legislation. Through its first sixty years our organization has The national and international policies adopted at 4. Aggressive action to defend marketing and experienced many member. endorsed changes to our national convention will serve as the p.olicy for bargaining majority rule concept legislation. We reflect and serve a dynamic, changing agricul- all state Farm Bureaus. will oppose any efforts by opponents of P.A. ture .. 344 and national farm bargaining legislation to This is essential in order that there may be weaken or cripple its operations and effec- As we enter a new decade, we face even greater effective harmony and unanimity among Farm tiveness. changes in the agricultural community. We find Bureau organizations throughout the nation. 5. Modification of the act so that other agricultural rapid growth in the rural non-farm segment of our commodities can come under this legislation if population. Many of these persons have problems Michigan's recommendations on national and producers comply with its provisions. common to farmers. Many of these problems need international affairs are available to county Farm We urge that Farm Bureau at all levels give the an organized effort to be solved, and the solution Bureaus and others upon request. highest priority to marketing and bargaining legisla- would be enhanced by a combination of both farm tion. and non-farm involvement. We believe that the experience gained in our Farm Bureau, could APPRECIATION GRAIN AND BEAN MARKETING provide that solution. During the first session of the 80th Legislature Farmers should be in a position to control their much legislation consistent with Farm Bureau own bean and grain marketing. Producers deliver- New services, for members only, will need to be policies was passed, implemented or in progress, ing grain' to elevators should be offered both a developed to provide added incentives for including: warehouse storage receipt and a price later agree- membership. We are pleased that efforts are - Implementation of the 1978 Constitutional ment and be able to select the one of their choice. underway in tne development of new programs Amendment limiting state spending, procedures Passage of the Grain Dealers Act of 1976 relieved and services. This process will strengthen for property tax rate rollbacks and maintenance several concerns once expressed by farmers in Michigan Farm Bureau and its affiliate companies of state aid to local governments. Michigan concerning price later agreements. to even greater benefits for Farm Bureau -Amendments to animal health laws. members and our efforts will lead to a stronger -Equalization of property by class and implemen- Farm Bureau in terms of numbers, finances, tation of a "developmental" classification. GRAIN DEALERS ACT services and influence. -Progress of legislation to reform Workers' Com- During the past several years several elevators pensation. have filed bankruptcy resulting in sizeable dollar We have assembled in this, our 60th. Annual - Legislation in progress to promote gasohol. losses to many Michigan farmers. This has caused Meeting, to develop policies on current and future -Am~ndments to the Wetlands legislation serious problems for many who thought that their issues. Member involvement in surfacing these exempting land to be used for agricultural interests were protected by the Michigan Depart- issues, along with suggested solutions, started at production. ment of Agriculture. the Community Group level. They were discussed - Enactment of Legislation for a Statewide Land We support proposed legislation to strengthen at 69 county Annual Meetings, where members Inventory. the Grain Dealers Act. This legislation gives the discussed the issues and voted on them. -Appropriations for the Extension Service, MDA authority to conduct a functional audit of Agriculture Experiment Station, FFA and 4-H. elevators and grain dealers. It would also permit the Our State Policy Development Committee has - Progress on a new Plant and Soil Science examination of books, records and accounts by a spent 6 days in gathering information, weighing Building. trained staff. alternatives and preparing recommendations to -Amendments to the No-Fault Law providing for delegates from all county Farm Bureaus. The a realistic Essential Insurance Program. DRY EDIBLE BEANS actions of the delegates will result in the policies -Progress to amend the Uniform Commercial Michigan is the leading dry bean producing state of our organization for the year ahead, but what Code to solve farm loan problems. in the nation. Presently the producers are without we do at this Annual Meeting will result only in - Amendments to the Grain Dealers Act to further an adequate grower production or marketing infor- words on paper. They must be put into action by protect farmers. mation system. Also, there is no unified promo- Farm Bureau members. - Amendments for specific exemptions for farmers tional program by the industry. from' Drivers License Endorsement re- We support the establishment of a system to pro- The strength of any organization is member quirements. vide accurate industry production and market infor- involvement. We encourage members to. become -Legislation to require licensing of land acquisition mation on a timely basis. We support a united in- involved in the many programs and activities of agents. dustry wide effort to improve promotion of dry edi- Farm Bureau. This will result in the continued -Amendments to the Solid Waste Act. ble beans in the domestic and export markets. success of Farm Bureau in serving the needs of -Permit Farm Licenses for Wood Harvestors. members in Michigan. - Amendments to the Probate Code. SOYBEAN RESEARCH AND MARKET John Laurie, Chairman -Several tax measures in progress, including DEVELOPMENT Policy Development Committee repeal of stored grain tax and exemption of Soybean acreage is increasing in Michigan. This health care cost from income tax . . crop is an important part of farm income. -Numerous Educational amendments under con- We believe soybean research should receive con- RECOMMENDATIONS ON NATIONAL AND sideration. tinued emphasis at Michigan State University. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS We commend the Governor, Legislature and Developing and testing of new varieties adapted to The recommendations on national and inter- various Departments on introduction, enactment Michigan's unique environmental conditions is national affairs adopted by the voting delegates and implementation of these and other measures, needed as well as research on disease, weed and have been forwarded to the American Farm which we have supported or are consistent with our insect control. Bureau Federation for use by the national policies and are important to agriculture and the We urge the Michigan Soybean Committee to Resolutions Committee, which is made up .of economy of the State of Michigan. We also ap- substantially increase the portion of existing check- PAGE 12 FARM NEWS IJANUARY, 1980 ---------\--------------------------=;:::::::;_..--------------------------- Policies \ Become: Solutions to Agricultural Problems. off funds for research in Michigan and continue to CALFHOOD VACCINATION MILK TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENTS work with the Legislature and MSU in providing Michigan presently requires calfhood vaccination The quality of milk is directly affected by the adequate matching funds for soybean research in for brucellosis of female beef and dairy breeding temperature both on the farm and throughout the Michigan. stock imported into the state or S91d from one farm handling. Consumption of milk is directly affected to another within the state. by quality, thus milk must be kept cool at all handl- FRUIT JUICES Since Michigan is brucellosis free, and one of on- ing points. Fruit juices have great marketing potential and ly three states with this strict regulation, we believe Current law requires that raw milk be cooled not consumer demand for these products is very evi- we should maintain our present calfhood vaccina- to exceed 50 degrees Fahrenheit and processed dent. Michigan is one of the major producers of tion program . To aid in maintaining this law, we milk not to exceed 45 degrees Fahrenheit. We fruit crops such as cherries. believe the indemnity should be paid only to recommend that the laws regarding temperature re- Frequently, adverse weather conditions cause owners of calfhood vaccinated animals. quirements be strictly enforced. considerable quantities of cherries to be unaccep- We urge that special attention be given to milk table for No.1 Grade product, however, the raw PSEUDORABIES CONTROL . quality utilized in the school milk program or any product would be very acceptable for juice stock. Current regulations regarding imported' feeder other mass milk distribution program. Recent rigid interpretations and inspection and pigs require a special permit to bring feeder pigs in- grade specifications by government agencies have to Michigan and that they be quarantined until PROMPT PAYMENT slaughter. We deplore the practice of some processors and caused serious hardship on many growers because We urge. a vigorous educational program be con- handlers of farm commodities of operating on pro- they are not able to market their crop. The inflexible ducted to acquaint feeder pig buyers with the new ducers money due to delayed payment for com- rules have been unreasonable and inequitable to regulation and urge tpe Michigan Department of modities delivered. Sometimes this period extends growers and consumers since considerable product Agriculture to strictly enforce these provisions. for as long as a year or more. is lost from the market. The sale of swine breeding stock within the state We therefore, urge producers to develop firm We continue to support research and extension should require a pseudorabies test within thirty days business policies concerning contracts on overdue activities to develop the best handling procedures, prior to sale if not from a qualified free herd. accounts including an appropriate interest charge 'to reasonable testing methods and definitions which We recommend blood testing of swine breeding any account not paid in full after 30 days. will allow for maximum utilization of fruit crops and stock within 'thirty days prior to each show at county We support legislation that would require pro-. market expansion of these products. fairs which will help co_ntrol the spread of this cessors and handlers purchasing farm commodities disease. Isolation from swine herds from time of test from producers to make full payment within 30 QUARANTINE OF AGRICULTURAL to time of show will also help control pseudorabies. days of date of purchase unless other provisions are PRODUCTS made by written contract. In trying to meet the growing need for food, farmers are doing all they can to increase food pro- MOISTURE TESTING STANDARDS duction. This often calls for new methods, produc- . All farmers who wish to sell crops at local tion techniques and often the use of chemicals. elevators must rely on the accuracy of the scales While great care must be taken to use precaution and moisture testing equipment at the elevators. in handling these chemicals, we recognize that There currently are regulations concerning the sometimes accidents may occur. This may lead to scale. While grain buyers who trade under U.S. quarantine of farmers and possible disposal of pro- grain standards must meet USDA criteria, inspec- ducts. tion of all grain dealers is not enforceable. Moisture We believe that for all products the quarantine testing equipment should be inspected and certified period should not exceed 30 days. By the end of annually by the Michigan Department of that period, the governmental agency imposing the Agriculture. As an additional safeguard to farmers quarantine must take one of four actions: spot inspections of this equipment by Michigan 1. Revoke the quarantine. Department of Agriculture should also be con- 2. Continue the quarantine for an additional 30 ducted. days. Total quarantine should not exceed 60 days. F,ERTILIZERTESTING 3. Condemn the product and dispose of it within 10 Michigan fertilizer laws provide. for testing fer- days. In the case of poultry, the total quarantine tilizer to assure that it meets the analysis as labeled. should not exceed 30 days. However, we are concerned that due to lack of 4. If the quarantine extends into the second thirty adequate manpower and laboratory availability, days, loan. arrangements should be made there is insufficient testing to protect farmers buying available to producers who are quarantined for fertilizer.' I conditions beyond their co~ntrol. SOFT WHITE WHEAT DELIVERY POINT We are also concerned that many nitrogen fer- Soft white wheat is the major class of wheat pro- tilizer products such as anhydrous ammonia are not ANIMAL HEALTH RESEARCH duced in Michigan. It is the only class of wheat for tested adequately. We support whatever measures The income from livestock and livestock pro- which there is no provision for delivering against a necessary for the enforcement of Michigan's fer- ducts represents the largest segment of Michigan future contract. We urge continued work by Farm tilizer laws. agriculture. We encourage additional funding for Bur.eau and the Michigan Elevator Exchange to establish delivery points for soft white wheat. The NOXIOUS WEED LIST contin ued research on animal diseases by the MSU delivery points should be the same as for soft red Due to the speed with whi<;h they are spreading Agricultural Experiment Station. This work should throughout the state, we believe the Noxious Weed be coordinated with the MSU Animal Health wheat, namely Toledo and / or Chicago. Law should be amended to include Velvetleaf, Diagnostic Laboratory and other animal health Nightshade, Nutsedge and Jimson weeds .• facilities. MEAT INSPECTION Michigan's meat inspection program is in danger LIVESTOCK RESEARCH of being discontinued due t6 lack of federal fun- ABANDONED ORCHARDS AND There is much hope for genetic advancement in ding. We contend that the Federal inspection VINEYARDS livestock through ova transfers. We encourage that would put a number of our small meat packers out Abandoned and. severely neglected fruit or- contacts be maintained with Michigan State Univer- of business and also lower the quality of our pro- chards, vineyards, blueberry and bramble planta- sity researchers working with ova transfer and that duct. We will continue to work to preserve our pre- tions harbor diseases and insects. We support the members be kept informed of the results. sent State Meat Inspection Program. removal of such orchards and vineyards through Pork production is an important economic enter- We recommend that meat and poultry inspected the Department of Agriculture removal program prise in Michigan. The lack of structural soundness under a state program, which is equal to federal in- upon the request of a commercial grower. in swine breeding stock as well as market hogs is spection and approved by USDA, be permitted to In order to accomplish this and enable farmers to creating considerable economic loss to Michigan move in interstate commerce and also to federally utilize integrated pest control we support necessary producers. Therefore, we encourage Michigan inspected plants. funding for M.D.A. to remove trees and vines from State University to conduct research on both pro- abandoned sites and recommend that the cost of blems. ON FARM MILK QUALITY TESTING removal be placed as a lien against the property if We urge continued re'search to provide an inex- the owner refuses to comply. LIVESTOCK TESTING pensive, fast on farm antibiotic test at the milk tank. We support an amendment to the present law to The import-export tests required on livestock by This would help to assure a drug free milk product include brambles and blueberries. Michigan differ from those required by Canada. We and assure that producers have a double check on the product they produce and sell. AGRICULTURAL REPORTING SERVICE believe reciprocal testing programs should be im- Conclusive proof of residue must be provided to The agricultural industry has developed many plemented and that all requirements be strictly en- the producer before the milk tank is red tagged. mechanisms for reporting the size and progress of forced .. JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 13 Policies Provide: Direction for Action crops and other agricultural commodities. The ween the agricultural and industrial producer and SUBDIVISION CONTROL system that has been most widely adopted by the the user or consumer. Because of its location, the The present Subdivision Control Act permits a industry is the Agricultural Reporting Service. To Michigan State Fair is within relatively easy access tract of IClnd to be divided into not more than four insure the accuracy of their reports, farmers should to the majority of Michigan residents and offers the parcels of ten acres or less without platting. give . the Agricultural Reporting Service full unique opportunity to bring the producers and pro- However, many instances of circumventing the cooperation. Farm Bureau should work with the cessors of fooa and consumers together. The fair platting of land have been observed through the Agricultural Reporting Service to find ways to im- has performed this function for 129 years. selling of land in parcels of 10.1 acres or greater. prove and simplify the gathering of. information, The Legislature has transferred the fair grounds This practice has led to several areas of unplanned reporting and other aspects presently criticized by and fair to the Department of Natural Resources. developments which can be costly to the communi- farmers. We recommend that the Legislature and An eleven member council has been created con- ty. the Michigan Department of Agriculture adequately sisting ~f the department directors of agriculture, We will support legislation to eliminate the inade- fund their full portion of this'cost-share service. We commerce, and natural resources and eight ap- quacies of the present Act and require the platting also recommend additional funding for the pointed members, three of whom shall be farmers. of all subdivisions. Agricultural Repcrting Service to publish, at least We urge that agriculture be the priority attraction at Local zoning laws should continue to control strip quarterly, a timber price report as an added service the State Fair with additional emphasis on youth. building along highways or on agricultural land as to private forest owners. We urge that Farm Bureau members attend and authorized under present zoning. laws. participate in the State Fair. APPOINTMENT OF MICHIGAN PUBLIC UTILITIES DEPARTMENT Activities of public utility companies take them OF AGRICULTURE DIRECTOR Natural Resources across much of Michigan's farmland. They often We believe the present method of selecting the damage underground tile in farmlands when install- Director of the Department of Agriculture is the AGRICULTURAL LAND PRESERVATION ing new facilities. Farm owners should be notified a most effective system to avoid compromising the Agricultural land is essential to the well-being of minimum of 30 days prior to installation of such Director's position through the use of political all Michigan citizens. The Farmland and Open new facilities so the farmer can identify the location pressure. A strong Agriculture Commission con- Space Preservation Act (P .A. 116) provides a of tile and prevent damages. sisting of individuals with a farm background has voluntary me~hod of preserving farmland through a Electric and telephone utility transmission lines, an'dcontinues to serve all Michigan re~idents. contractual arrangement with the state and thereby gas lines and oil right-of-ways for these purposes limits property tax to a percentage of household in- should be standardized as nearly as possible with come. It also provides relief from certain special contracts or other legal instruments including as AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION . many protections to the owner as possible. We fur- assessments. It is proving to be an effective pro- AND EXHIBITION CENTER gram to preserve agricultural lands for future food ther believe that consideration should be given to The development of an Agricultural Education needs and open space. Farmers throughout the the leasing rather than sale of right-of-ways. and Exhibition Center in Michigan will improve the state have enrolled over 1 million acres of We support legislation to require licensing of land knowledge and management skills of farmers. We agricultural land in the program of which over 40 acquisition agents for oil, ~as and utility companies. encourage continued aggressive action by the percent is located within urban areas. The legislation should require that landowners be Steering Committee to develop the planned Center The administrators of P .A. 116 are to be com- informed of their legal rights, the proposed use of at Michigan State University. plimented for the efficient manner in which the pro- the land, the amount of royalty if any and the gram has been handled. We support retention of source in the state agency that can provide further MICHIGAN BEAN COMMISSION information. administrative responsibility for the program in the We support the efforts of the Michigan Bean Department of Natural Resources. Many times utility companies own good Commission. The Commission should be the in- We urge the Department of Natural Resources, agricultural land at present or future power strument for fostering, surfacing and developing Michigan Farm Bureau, Cooperative Extension generating locations. They are severely restricted in new Dean products and expanding the uses of dry Service personnel and local government officials to the disposition of these properties because of P.A. beans. Efforts by the Commission to establish local aggressively inform farmers of P.A. 116. We urge 286 of 1972, "The Land Sales Act". We support an advisory cOf!lmittees should be continued to every farmer to seriously consider the program and amendment to P .A. 286 exempting utilities in the develop better communications with dry bean its potential benefits to their farming operation. disposition of real estate for agricultural use. growers. We continue to support P.A. 116 and will work to maintain and improve this major agricultural land WILDERNESS AREAS AGRICULTURAL REPRESENTATION preservation program. We oppose enactment by Experience has shown that the "no manage- ON BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS the Legislature of additional agricultural land ment" concept applied to certain areas under the The increasing involvement of government in preservation programs which we believe would Wilderness Act has resulted in the serious degrada- agriculture has significantly increased food produc- confuse farmers and diminish the effectiveness of tion of the resource. It has been demonstrated that tion costs. Many producers have discontinued or P.A. 116. the removal of all man-made facilities has resulted substantially altered their farming operations as a We urge Farm Bureau members to take an active in sanitation and health problems that threaten the result of increased government regulations. This part in land use planning at all levels of govern- values the Act was designed to preserve. problem is magnified by the fact that most ap- ment. If local land use control is to be maintained, it Established wilderness criteria further threaten pointees to various boards and commissions do not is imperative that local people accept the respon- such areas by prohibiting the employment of power understand agricultur~. We recommend and will sibility to plan .the use of their land resources. tools and vehicles in watershed management, trail continue to, vigorously support the appointment of We oppose federal assistance to states for land maintenance, soil treatment, noxious weed control, qualified persons familiar with agriculture to all use planning except under a grant-in-aid program. waste management, and fire protection. For these boards and commissions involved in areas affecting Funds available to a state should not be withheld as reasons, and the fact that wilderness managment is agriculture. a weapon to enforce compliance. We oppose inconsistent with sound multiple use principles, we Agriculture should continue to be a voting federal legislation and agency policy which would oppose further expansion of wilderness areas pro- member of the Air Pollution Control Commission impose land use regulations as a qualification for posed under RARE II and urge reevaluation of all and Water Resources Commission. We oppose obtaining federal grants and loans. existing wildernesses under the Wilderness Act. repeal of the laws establishing these commissions. Any future wilderness proposals should be subject LOCAL FAIRS to environmental, social and economic impact Michigan .fairs are an important part of our state's analysis in addition to heavily weighted considera- heritage, and they are more popular today than tion of the views and land use plans of the residents ever before. The number of exhibits and the of the locality and state concerned. number of exhibitors have increased steadily in the last decade. The important impact of the youth pro- ENERGY grams which culminate in competition of fairs and Energy and its availability to meet the needs of of adult agricultural exhibits has been felt society must receive high priority. We believe there throughout the agricultural industry. are adequate energy supplies to meet foreseeable We support the Michigan Department of demand; but without proper incentives, these sup- Agriculture's leadership in the Michigan Fair In- plies will not be developed. dU'stry. We also encourage the Michigan The market system is the best method and incen- Legislature to continue to create and make possible tive for developing and allocating energy resources. the funding of thee endeavors. Additional government regulations and taxes levied on energy producers will only serve to make the MICHIGAN STATE FAIR United States more dependent on foreign nations We believe the Michigan State Fair helps to to supply our energy needs. create a better understanding and appreciation bet- Although it will only partially solve the energy PAGE 14 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1980 Policies 'I. Reflect: The Voice of the Grassroots problem, all citizens must put forth a strong effort to portion of the royalties to compensate him for these forts to restrict the availability of an equitable water conserve energy now and in the future. losses and increased property taxes resulting from supply for irrigation use. We support the current ef- Government funds and private funds should be the development of mineral rights. forts of the Michigan Farm Bureau Water Rights used to hasten energy research with the objective of Pr~sent1y, there are laws permitting oil and gas Task Force to study water laws, identify potential ending our dependence. on other nations for mineral rights to revert to the owner of the proper- riparian problems which might affect agriculture sources of energy. This research should include ty. We believe this principle should be extended to and recommend equitable solutions to such coal gasification, the utilization of feedlot and other other kinds of mineral rights. However, we believe riparian problems. organic waste, shale oil extraction and utilization of that the present 20-year claim period should be ethanol as fuel; solar; wind; nuclear, including fis- reduced to ten years. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL sion, fusion and breeder reactor; wood, geother- Several years ago the Legislature passed legisla- mal, and other energy sources. WATER SURVEILLANCE FEE tion requiring the burying of solid wastes and that However, because of inherent problems with Publc Act 293 of 1972 requires persons discharg- the wastes be covered daily. nuclear wastes adequate disposal facilities for the ing wastes into surface and underground waters to Michigan counties have been complying with the waste must be developed before permits are issued file an annual report with the State and pay a law. In so doing counties have used hundreds of for new nuclear power plants not already under surveillance fee for monitoring of the discharges. acres of land. Michigan is fast running out of construction. The total annual surveillance fees charged must be suitable land for waste disposal. This is a wasteful We oppose government rationing as a means of equal to the appropriation made by the Legislature practice and should be stopped. allocating scarce supplies, except in the case of na- to "fund the surveillance activities. The law We will support the passage of legislation pro- tional emergencies. In such cases, agriculture establishes a $9,'000 maximum fee that can be viding incentives for the recycling of rubbish, the should receive uninterrupted supplies. charged per location to anyone discharger. Due to burning of all burnable materials, the recycling of Data gathered from highly sophisticated ex- rising costs and the maximum fee that can be charg- metals suitable for recycling and the burying of the ploratory techniques indicates there are large ed a factor similar to that used in property tax ash. The energy derived from the burning process amounts of untapped gas and oil beneath public equalization is applied to the fees levied against should be harnessed to produce steam for the lands. These energy supplies represent important small' dischargers including many agricultural generation of electricity. Energy is costing more resources to meet future energy needs of the operations. We support legislation to remove the every day and this trend will likely continue. The economy. We support the development of these $9,000 ceiling so that large dischargers will carry energy we are now burying should be saved and vast oil and gas supplies beneath public lands, their full share of the surveillance fee. We also sup- utilized. when appropriate, providing strict environmental port replacement of the current formula used to controls are assured. compute fees with a formula that will provide incen- COMMERCIAL FOREST ACT A portion of the revenue from sales of oil and gas tives for dischargers to prevent environmental The Commercial Forest Act has not been from state and federally - owned property should damage. The new formula should result in a fee amended since 1970. We believe it should be be returned to the county and township in which that accurately reflects the amount of surveillance studied to determine its effect on .the community the property is located. actually necessary to monitor discharges. and updated to bring revenue yields in line with to- day's economic si~uation. GASOHOL Agricultural commodities are a renewable source DRAINAGE _ of bio-mass for ethanol alcohol production. The use Much of Michigan's nearly 12 million acres of of such commodities for production of ethanol farmland require drainage to produce food. Certain alcohol could accomplish significant energy conser- types of agriculture such as muck farming cannot vation of non-renewable resources. We commend continue or expand without adequate drainage Farmers Petroleum Cooperative for assuming systems. We favor retention of authority for ad- leadership in the marketing of gasohol in Michigan. ministration of the Drain Code in the Department of We urge Farm Bureau to continue to exert its full Agriculture. We support recodification of the Drain influence to promote the development, production Code. Drains constructed by authoritv of the Drain and use of gasohol. Code should whenever possible follow natural drainage contours and maintain aesthetics of in- ENVIRONMENT dividual farms. Public concern for the environment continues to TRESPASS be a powerful force. This concern poses serious im- The present law requiring hunters, fishermen, plications to agriculture. The future of agriculture is snowmobilers and ORV operators to obtain written dependent on air, water and land as natural tools of permission before entering upon farmland and con- production. Agriculture has an important respon- LAND DISPOSAL OF WASTEWATER nected farm woodlots has reduced the number of sibility to improve the quality of our environment. AND SLUDGE trespass complaints. We urge owners of farmland All persons engaged in agricult.ure should con- The use of land to dispose of industrial and to fully utilize this law to protect their property rights tinue to become informed of pollution sources and municipal wastewater or sludge is expected to in- against trespass. We will oppose all efforts to repeal discipline themselves so as not to add to the pro- crease due to national water .pollution abatement blem. Good housekeeping and a good neighbor or weaken this law. goals established by the Federal Water Pollution We are concerned about the growing problem of policy can do much to prevent environmental pro- Coritrol Act. The supply of nutrients and the water crop destruction by ORV's. We recommend that blems from occurring. We urge that agricultural in these wastes could be beneficial to agriculture'. Michigan Farm Bureau arrange and conduct a representatives be consulted during the develop- We urge farmers to consider the possibilities of meeting with landowners, law enforcement agen- ment of pollution regulations and that such regula- utilizing wastewater and sludge from municipalities cies and ORV operators to discuss ways to tions, when implemented, be realistic and consis- contemplating land application. Government agen- minimize this problem. If this effort proves unsuc- tent with good production practices. cies responsible for approving land application cessful we will support legislation to provide greater Continued research is necessary to find adequate systems should allow private agriculture to utilize protection to landowners. answers to agricultural waste disposal problems. municipal wastewater and sludge whenever possi- Continued emphasis should be placed on develop- ble and we will continue our efforts to seek ap- ing recycling systems for agricultural waste. DEER HERD proval of such a policy. We believe the use of We appreciate the efforts of the Department of We recommend that whenever an environmen- farmland for disposal of such wastes' should: tal impact statement is requir€d, an economi~ study Natural Resources to continue on an expanded 1. Permit private enterprise agriculture with volun- should also be required to inform the public of the basis for 1979 the special Landowner Permit Pro- tary participation. probable consequences of the proposals. gram which recognizes the contribution of farr:lers 2. Provide flexibility in amount and timing of ap- in providing feed and habitat to the deer herd. We plication of the wastes according to agricultural support its continuation and expansion where ap- MINERAL RIGHTS needs. propriate in 1980. In many areas of the state, mineral rights were 3. Provide indemnity payments for unsaleable We will support legislation to prohibit shining for either sold or retained by original owners crops due to Food and Drug Administration deer in fields where livestock is kept or pastured throughout the years resulting in the fact that many regulations or crop losses caused by components and prohibit the rays of an artificial light to be cast present owners do not own the mineral rights to in the wastes .. upon buildings except in the normal operation of a their property. Farming operations are disturbed 4. Provide indemnity for land should it be con- vehicle or when necessary by persons working when the owners of mineral rights exercise their taminated because of components in the wastes. within the scope of their employment. rights to develop the mineral resources. While com- We will also support legislation to prohibit pensation is due the owner of the surface rights, WATER RIGHTS statewide the shining of deer for a 30 day period often there are other losses incurred for which no The use of irrigation for crop production con- immediately prior to and during the bow and compensation is received. We believe that the tinues to increase rapidly. We will oppose any ef- firearm deer seasons. owner of the surface rights' should receive some ',t~I{)~ 'to' b1 ~'W .9"!Oj~)~YI! .~c:11YI~nq '-.l11~L:'1 AJ ('I JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 15 Policies Reflect: Strength Through United Action DEsmUCTIVE WILDLIFE AND PESTS complete evaluation can a balance between en- themselves of the coverage, leaving themselves Many species of wildlife are causing serious vironmental control and chemical control be effec- and their employees unprotected. Overly generous damage to crops and property in agricultural areas. tively attained. Unless there is conclusive evidence awards have contributed to high premiums. We recommend that intensive research and . to prove that a threat to public health exists, Farmers who hire laborers are responsible for the management efforts be continued by state and government agencies should not impose a zero protection of the employees while on the job. federal agencies to find effective methods of min- tolerance 'or issue an RPAR for any chemical or Michigan Farm Bureau and Michigan imizing these dangers. We recommend that land- drug. Agricultural Services Association will continue to owners contact United States Bureau of Fisheries We recommend that the Delaney Amendment work with other groups to review and find solutions and Wildlife personnel stationed in the Michigan be 'amended to permit the establishment of safe to these problem areas. Department of Agriculture, the Department of tolerance levels. Worker's Compensation should be made a cost- Natural Resources and Cooperative Extension Ser- All persons using chemicals and drugs should sharing program with employees paying a portion vice for assistance in dealing with wildlife crop read and follow precisely the label instructions. of premium cost, since employees receive all of the damage. Such adherence to label instructions can help avoid benefits. government actions to cancel the use of essential Benefits should not exceed 80% of the workers' SECTION 208 COST SHARING chemicals and drugs. We recommend that pesticide average weekly wage. There should not be a The Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972 dealers carry safety equipment for purchase by ap- minimum. establishes a goal of zero water polIution by 1985. plicators as required on pesticide labels or be able to Workers" Compensation should be reduced by We believe the zero water pollution goal is imprac- suggest a source where the equipment can be ob- . the amount of other benefits that are provided at tical and unattainable and should be substantialIy tained on a timely basis. the cost of the employer. modified. This unrealistic goal provides direction Farmers are encountering problems in properly A more simple appeal process should be im- for implementation of Section 208 of the Act. disposing of pesticide containers. We recommend plemented for employers who wish to appeal deci- Section 208 of the Federal Water Pollution Con- that pesticide manufacturers and appropriate sions regarding Workers' Compensation claims. trol Act requires each state to designate appropriate regulatory agencies consider development of a pro- The three-year statute of limitations should be agencies to study area water quality problems and gram for disposal or recycling of these containers. strengthened and enforced on Worker's Compen- prepare and implement plans to control non-point sation claims. sources of pollution. Plans prepared under Section BIOLOGICAL PEST CONTROL Attorneys' fees in the representation of an injured 208 must identify, if appropriate, agriculturally The increasing restrictions on pesticide use pose worker should be based on a flat per hour rate and related non-point sources of pollution, including many uncertainties as to their future availability. not exceed 15 percent of the total settlement. run-off from manure disposal areas and from land While considerable progress has been made to Employees should be required to report injuries used for livestock and crop production. The plan develop biological controls against pests, much re- before leaving premises where employed or within must also set forth procedures and methods, in- mains to be done. We support expanded research 24 hours for claims pertaining to Workers' Com- cluding land-use requirements, to control to the ex- to further develop effective biological pest control pensation. tent feasible such sources. Since Section 208 plans programs. Insurance companies and the Department of are intended to achieve public goals any limit on Labor should update a computerized list of statistics cost-sharing of approved conservation practices INDIAN RIGHTS related to injuries and claims under Worker's Com- under the Agricultural Conservation Program for Litigation is currently pending in Federal Court pensation. measures required by Section 208 plans should be involving the right of specific Indian tribes to take Previous injuries whether reported or not at time removed. We believe Soil Conservation Districts or fish from the Great Lakes for commerCial and sub- of employment should not be attributed to the pre- the ASCS should be responsible for administering sistence purposes without complying with ap- sent employer. any Section 208 plans for agriculture. plicable fish laws. The Indian tribes believe that the There must be a direct connection between the We urge Farm Bureau members to take an active Treaty of 1836 prohibits the State of Michigan from disability and a claimant's employment. role in monitoring the Regional 208 plan in their enforcing any state law which is inconsistent with Injuries sustained by an employee involved in area. this treaty. The State of Michigan maintains that the recreational, social or personal interests, regardless subsequent Treaties of 1855 fully released and of whether or not they occur on the premises of SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION discharged all rights and privileges including fishing employment should be excluded from coverage. . CONTROL ACT rights which were reserved in the treaty of 1836. Compensation should not be given for ordinary The Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Since this case concerns only fishing rights and diseases of life. Act, P.A. 347 of 1972, requires that after does not involve land use, there will be no im- The present situation whereby benefits are paid December 31, 1978 certain agricultural practices mediate consequences to Michigan farmers. to employees leaving the labor market, not because except for normal tillage, planting and harvesting However, we are concerned that if the case is of a true impairment - but because of advancing be conducted either (1) under a permit obtained decided against the State of Michigan, Indians may age or to take advantage of a voluntary retirement from the local agency designated by the County bring action to hunt, trap and gather fruits of the plan should be corrected. Board of Commissioners or (2) carried out in accor- land on vast areas ceded in the Treaty of 1836, but Alleged Workers' Compensation claims hearings dance with a soil conservation plan approved by which are now privately owned. We urge Michigan and determinations should be made within 60 days the local Soil Conservation District. We do not Farm Bureau to closely monitor this important case of filing. believe routine agricultural practices such as and take appropriate action to protect agricultural . Any retroactive benefit increases should be removal of fencerows,. construction of grass water- interests. financed through use of public funds. It would not ways, preparation of farm building sites and burial be equitable to force current employers to assume of stonepiles are significant sources of erosion or the expense of raising benefit payments for workers sedimentation. We therefore support legislation to . Labor injured years ago. exempt all agricultural practices from the re- Dependency of a child should be limited to age quirements of P.A. 347. WORKER'S COMPENSATION 18, unless mentally or physically disabled. Full-time Agricultural employers are concerned with the students should be eligible to receive benefits until misuse and abuses which have crept into the age 23. AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS AND DRUGS Worker's Compensation Program. Permanent and total disability should be redefin- Modern agriculture cannot continue to provide Because of the high minimum premium many ed to eliminate "loss of industrial use" as a criterion sufficient quantities of high quality food and fiber to farmers and other employers do not avail for eligibiwty. meet the nation's needs without the use of Employees should be required to provide the agricultural chemicals and drugs. Any undue cur- employer a copy of any physical examination tailment of the safe and appropriate usage of these received in connection with any injuries or medical products will result in lower quality food and fiber at impairments. higher costs to the consumers. Disability should be redefined to mean the inabil- We believe governmental agencies, research ity of an injured employee to perform or obtain any organizations and manufacturers of chemical pro- work suitable to his/her qualifications or retraining. ducts must continue comprehensive research In any or all cases of such disability the burden of studies about the toxicity to humans, adverse ef- proof should rest solely with the claimant. fects, and the life duration of the chemical. We urge that responsible agencies not issue scare warnings. This has happened on numerous occa- . MI-OSHA sions in the past and in every instance has harmed We encourage all farmers to become aware of the market for some products of American any occupational hazards on their farms and volun- agriculture. tarily adopt safety programs. We believe the basic In any evaluation of chemicals and drugs, the premise of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, possible detrimental effects must be considered in that all employers know what is required by OSHA, relation to the benefits derived. Only through a is a faulty premise. Therefore, we favor safety PAGE 16 FARM NEWS JAN UARY, 1980 Policies Include: Direction for the Organization educational programs and no-penalty first time in- unemployment benefits, their wages should not be INHERITANCE TAX spections. included in the Federal Unemployment Insurance Michigan's Amendatory Inheritance Tax Act, The rules and regulations as established by MI- base. P.A. 628 of 1978, provides significant inheritance OSHA for industry are not adapted to agriculture. tax relief for Michigan farm owners. Heirs who The uniqueness of agriculture in its operations does enroll estates in P .A. 116 for 10 years receive a TEMPORARY FOREIGN LABOR not lend it to industrial rules. To insure that 50 % exemption and a deferment of inheritance Many of Michigan's fresh market produce crops Michigan agriculture employers and employees are taxes on real property for 10 years. depend upon the use of hand harvest labor. It is not subjected to a competitive disadvantage we We urge farmers to become familiar with all the becoming increasingly difficult, if not impossible, to believe that MI-OSHA standards and rules should many provisions of the act and to use careful estate obtain hand harvest labor. We support ad- be consistent with OSHA standards and rules. planning to minimize detrimental aspects of estate ministrative and / or legislative action to provide for We urge the Governor to maintain an agriculture a workable temporary foreign worker program. settlement. representative on the Occupational Safety Stan- While progress has been made we believe the In- dards Commission or any committees appointed to heritance Tax Law, like the Federal Estate Tax Law, does not adequately recognize the contribu- work in this area. We urge the reestablishment of Taxation tion of a spouse to the building and accumulation of the Department of ~abor Mi-OSHA Agricultural Advisory Committee before any further agricultural AGRICULTURAL LAND TAXATION an "estate" particularly in agriculture. We believe requirements can be considered. The Farmland and Open Space Preservation Act that a surviving spouse should not have to pay in- We believe that the employee also has a respon- (P .A. 116) provides a voluntary method of preserv- heritance tax on what they have heiped to pay for. sibility and should be subject to penalty for failure to ing farmland through a contractual arrangement There is also a need to adjust the exemptions observe the safety standards. with the state and thereby limits property tax to a and / or tax credits for dependents by an inflation We recommend that farmers throughout percentage of household income. It also provides index. Michigan continue to make a constructive contribu- relief from certain special assessments. We are tion to the development of practical, realistic pleased with the excellent support that farmers are NEGOTIABLE INSTRUMENTS TAX agricultu.al safety standards which correct safety giving this program throughout the entire state. We believe that the imposition of a tax on hazards on Michigan farms to provide a safe work- Over 1 million acres are enrolled of which more negotiable instruments (checks, bank drafts, money ing environment for agricultural employees and than 40% are in Standard Metropolitan Statistical orders, certificates of deposit, etc. ,) would result in employers or producers. Areas. a constant increase in the tax rate. It would also be We continue to strongly support P .A. 116 as we unfair to those using checking systems as the payee believe it is far sup~rior to any similar program in would probably demc;md the amount of the tax ELEVATOR REGULATIONS from the payer in order to pay the tax at the time of the nation .. We oppose at this time other programs The current MI-OSHA interpretation of electrical cashing. We oppose a negotiable instruments tax. that might dilute its effectiveness such as codes relative to grain handling facilities and feed agricultural districts proposals. Additional programs mills is causing extremely severe economic hard- TAXATION OF MOBILE HOMES at this time would lead to confusion. ship to the owners of these faciities; many of which Presently, mobile homes in trailer parks pay, in Another tax relief program that is helpful to are farmer cooperatives. Producers are also being lieu of property taxes, a fee of $3 per month. Two farmers as well as farmowners and renters is the seriously effected economically. Agricultural dollars of this amount goes to the school, 50 cents "circuit breaker" program which provides property employment is being lost and food costs will be un- to the township, and 50 cents to the county. This tax relief for homestead and agricultural land based necessarily increased. fee system, enacted in 1959, is no longer realistic. on household income. The refund limit is $1,200. MI-OSHA regulations are far more stringent than The increased value of the trailer homes is not federal OSHA requirements. Many elevators in- reflected, nor do they contribute a proper share of vested heavily to update facilities and comply with the cost of schools and local government. Mobile the regulations only to find the regulations changed homes should be assessed on the same basis as with additional requirements. Such bureaucratic other homes or dwellings. tactics have placed Michigan in an even greater non-competitive position with other states. STATE BUDGET Since MI-OSHA regulations do not provide any Michigan's Constitution requires the state to greater safety conditions than OSHA regulations, operate on a balanced budget. This provision has we urge that state requirements be consistent with been effective and necessary. Cuts have been federal rules. made from time to time. We support fiscal responsibility. However, we HEALTH DEPARTMENT REGULATIONS believe that any necessary cuts must be equitable The Michigan Department of Health promulgates between governmental departments with emphasis many rules and regulations affecting agriculture in- on elimination of any program that is no longer cluding some under the MI-OSHA Act. We believe "I~ necessary. an Agricultural Advisory Committee to the depart- We recommend that this limit be increased to at We point out that appropriations for the Depart- ment should be established to provide producer in- least reflect the inflation factor. ment of Agriculture, agricultural research and some put on any regulation affecting agriculture. We believe that the new "developmental" land other services essential to Michigan's agriculture classification can be helpful if properly interpreted have not kept pace with inflationary costs. Care UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE and administered. The intent is that other property must be taken that such programs are not weaken- Unemployment insurance is a social insurance such as farmland would not be subject to increased ed to the point of being ineffective. program to compensate employees for their loss of valuation because of property sold for development earnings at times of involuntary unemployment. purposes. However, the original intent of unemployment We further believe that a higher valuation should Education insurance has been so defiled by Labor Department not be placed on land as a result of a zoning change regulations and interpretations that it has become EDUCATIONAL FINANCE until the owner initiates the change of use. an enrichment program. Major changes in the financing of education have The Constitutional Amendment (Headlee) pass- Unemployment insurance should not be paid to been made resulting in a "new equity in Michigan ed by the people in 1978 is in the process of im- . persons on strike, who retire, who refuse to work school finance." Reforms include the initiation of plementation. We believe it will effectively Hmit when it is available, who knowingly and willingly the "equal yield" concept guaranteeing a specific state revenue within the formula and consequently work in seasonal employment, or to school person- dollar yield for each mill of taxation, a new formula unnecessary state spending. Local property taxes nel during semester and vacation breaks. for funding intermediate districts, and a formula for are also limited and in many cases tax rates will be We call upon the National Study Commission on assistance for bonded millage. rolled back. While these and other changes are highly com- Unemployment Compenation to recommend ways We believe these controls will be effective and to reduce abuses and fraud in the program. mendable, the property tax remains the major improve Michigan's tax system which already rates Michigan farmers must compete in the United source of local school finance. However, the as one of the best in the nation. States and world markets. Therefore, we continue. "circuit breaker" concept and other reforms have We will continue to work to improve the tax aided in relieving the property tax burden. P.A. to oppose any attempt by the State of Michigan to system to assure equity to all citizens. require more extensive coverage for agriculture 116 has also proved to be an alternative for farm than that provided by the Federal Unemployment STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT land. Many farmers that have P.A. 116 contracts have -An increase in the "circuit breaker" benefits to Act. Farm employers who will not qualify under the had to wait undue lengths of time for their refund. provide a more balanced tax system. current guidelines should continue to be allowed to We believe that such refunds should be made - The possible use of the income tax by a local voluntarily provide unemployment insurance. for within 90 days after filing. The taxpayer should school district or intermediate district. receive interest on the amount of the refund after -Sufficient funds appropriated to pay in full all their employees. Since full time students are not eligible to receive the 90 day time limit at the prevailing interest rate. state aid formulas. JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 17 Policies Include: Suggestions to Members -Funding for K-12 schools on a multi-year - The common goals of the Michigan Depart- -Extension continue its traditional educational basis. ment of Education should be a helpful guideline for role in supplying unbiased factual information, but - Full funding by the state for all state mandated local school boards. avoid taking positions pro and con on public issues. educational prog~ams as required by the Tax -We are opposed to the Department of Educa- -County Farm Bureaus develop and maintain a Limitation Amendment. tion's interpretation of bilingual education such as stronger and closer working relationship with their We believe it is possible to achieve further educa- identification of students, etc. county Cooperative Extension Office. tional finance reform .within the present constitu- -Educational programs be constantly re- -We support the proposed expanded budget tional framework and without eroding the fun- evaluated to determine the priorities and needs of over a three year period to return Cooperative Ex- damental right of the local commun'ity to determine our economy and work force. Education at all tension Agricultural positions to their normal educational goals within broad general guidelines levels must meet the constantly changing needs of capacity prior to budget cut backs. We will support provided by law. society. additional positions for agriculture as needs become Busing to achieve integration is very expensive, evident. wastes needed energy and provides no educational EDUCATIONAL REFORMS values. We support corrective measures, to MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY We believe that addi~ional reforms should be preserve neighborhood schools, to enable a student AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION made in our education system. We recommend: to attend the school of his choice, and to maintain The Agricultural Experiment Stations have and - The present State Board of Education should the right of parents to participate in public and continue to play a valuable role in our society. be replaced by a bi-partisan, odd-numbered Educa- private school affairs. Historically, research done in these facilities has tion Commission appointed by the Governor with helped to increase efficiency in food production. the advice and consent of the Senate. The Com- Both farmers -and consumers have benefitted from -mission should employ the Director of Education. TEACHER TENURE AND LICENSING developments by this system. -Statewide testing and assessment of student The inflexibility of the present teacher tenure law As we look to future world needs, new techni- progress and total evaluation of education should makes it unreasonably difficult for school boards to ques must be applied to farming to aid in solving be contin ued and expanded. School systems discharge incompetent personnel. environmental concerns, conservation of energy should emphasize the "basics" and require students School boards are often forced to sit in hearings and natural resources, and to meet future produc- to meet minimum academic standards for gradua- for unreasonable periods of time. We believe the tions needs. tion . Tenure Act should be steamlined to include the use The Agricultural Experim~nt Station at Michigan . -Reorganizatio~ of K-12 districts, intermediate of outside hearing officers, removal of ad- State University is one of the finest in the country. It districts, and ,community college districts should ministrators from the Act unless specifically includ- serves eight colleges, including Agriculture and continue to be voluntary. However, if reorganized, ed by board action, require a single approach to Natural Resources, Engineering, Human Ecology, the policy-making board should be representative removal procedure either through the employee Human Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine, Social of all local boards of education and/or all areas of contract, Tenure Act or court system. The proba- Sciences, Natural Science, and Veterinary the districts. tionary period should not be increased unless there Medicine. There are 30 departments and more -Cooperative programs among small K-12 are several reforms to assure a more workable and than 600research projects with over 300 scientists. school districts to help provide a broader cur- equitable legal document. We are pr~~f the work done by the Experi- riculum. We strongly support the present system of ment Station, However, we are concerned that in - The use of program budgeting should be en- teacher certification with periodic review and recent years appropriations have not kept pace with couraged at the local level.as a means to equate evaluation. We see no need for a licensing system rising costs. The station has no other source of in- program costs to students needs. and oppose present proposals. come. We are shocked to learn that numerous -Guaranteed local control of schools including faculty and research personnel have resigned; such curricula, personnel, etc., in order to meet the par- talent cannot be readily replaced. Good research is EXTENSION SERVICE ticular needs of the community. a continuing process and cannot be turned on or The Cooperative Extension Service has played a -In-service training including C.P.R. for vital and successful role in the development of our off. Agricultural research has proven to be a sound teachers be encouraged. nations agriculture. With the help of Extension Ser- investment that has returned great dividends to all - Local school facilities be used to their fullest vice information and education programs, citizens for over a century. We commend the potential for educational purposes for both youths American farmers have developed their operations Legislature for recognizing this fact in the 1979-80 and adults. appropriations and urge that it contin ue to into the most efficient industry in the world. This - Vocational-technical programs for both youths development has definitely been a financial benefit recognize the need to appropriate sufficient funds and adults be made available to all areas of the to carryon research projects, such as: to individual farmers, but also has helped make it state. Existing educational facilities should be used -Optimizing energy, land and water. possible for the American consumer to spend a wherever possible. The "World of Work" demands -Improving crop production. lower percent of his net income for food than any saleable skills. other consumer in the world. -Dairy systems. - Building accountability into the educational We believe that every effort should be made to - Development of the new Horticultural Ex- system. School boards, administrators, teachers, use successful Extension Service methods for periment Stations. students and parents must work together to set - Livestock and poultry. education programs for all people in our society goals and objectives to improve studen.t learning -Improving food quality. who desire th~m. However, at the same time we and performance. -Control of insect transmitted diseases. are concerned that this will be at the expense of the -Evaluation of teacher education programs in -Housing for non-urban communities. Agricultural Extension Service and Research pro- the colleges. -Integrated control of pests. grams. -An evaluation program on human develop- -Environmental monitoring network for In light of these considerations, we recommend: ment for the experienced teacher. The emphasis is agricultural production. -Special reports required by the Extension Ser- on the'individual, his or her interrelationship and - Utilization of forage and grain by cattle in the vice be financed by the necessary appropriations, interactions with students, subject matter, and Upper Peninsula. not by siphoning off a part of the already overtaxed teaching techniques. We support a feasibility study - Dry edible bean production research, budget. on merit pay. Michigan is in direct competition with not only - Development of Extension type programs for - The inflexibility of the present Teacher Tenure other states but also other countries; and to remain urban people where they are needed under the Law makes it unreasonably difficult for school competitive, we must have up-to-date research jurisdiction of the Extension Service with special ap- boards to discharge incompetent personnel. We from the various Michigan Experiment Stations. propriations for these programs. believe that consideration should be given to an in- We stress the need for appropriate funds for the itiatory petition procedure for the purpose of cor- outlying MSU experiment stations with special con- recting the deficiencies created by the present sideration to the Upper Peninsula. tenure law. -Full implementation and funding of special 4-H education programs for handicapped children. It We commend the Michigan Cooperative Exten- has been proven beyond a doubt that these sion Service for its role in the development of the children can be educated to lead productive lives. 4-H Program. This program provides valuable with dignity and contribute to society. educational opportunities to both rural and urban -Programs for gifted children. youth. -New and innovative instructional methods be We also commend the 4-H leadership and the researched and used after proven beneficial. 25,000 volunteer leaders for the new and exciting -Full funding of all special programs mandated projects developed to gain interest and participation by the Legislature or the courts. Such legislative ac- of Michigan youth. We encourage adults to actively tions should not have the effect of mandating the participate as project leaders. We will continue to raising of property taxes above the IS-mill constitu- support adequate appropriations for this worth- tional limit. while youth program. PAGE 18 FARM NEWS JAN UARY, 1980 - Policies Become: Programs of Action Transportation 12. All rural roads should be marked with a name VEHICLE SAFETY INSPECTION or number. Houses should be numbered by the For a number of years the National Highway. HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORTATION homeowner and coordinated in each county. A Traffic Safety Administration has pressured An adequate system of rural roads and bridges is number clearly visible from the road is essential Michigan to have a mandatory safety inspection essential for farm to market .transportation. during emergencies. program" for motor vehicles. We oppose such in- Inflation has resulted in a multitude of detrimen- 13. Mail and newspaper boxes should be placed on spection requirements as it would require setting up tal effects on net reven ues to build and maintain the same side of the road to make travel with inspection stations and would require fees to be roads. These include: large machinery safer and easier. charged the individual motorist. We believe that 1. The higher price of fuel has resulted in more fuel 14. Red and amber reflectors and SMV emblems Michigan's program which permits the State Police efficient automobiles and a decrease in the should not be used as mailbox and driveway to set up safety inspection lanes on the highways is number of miles driven and number of gallons of markers. Only appropriate blue or green far superior and workable. We recognize that the fuel used. Since the gas tax is a flat rate per markers should be used. State Police have not been able to continue this gallon the net revenue from this source is 15. The check lane system should be continued in': program d~e to lack of necessary funding. We sup- decreasing. stead of using the proposed mandatory annual port additional appropriations and personnel" for 2. License plate fees are based on vehicle weight. vehicle inspection. ' the continuation of the special motor vehicle in- New cars are much lighter. 16. Reflectorized glass which cannot be seen spection lanes operated by the Michigan State 3. Costs of building and repairing roads contin ue to through should be banned from use in licensed Police. escalate. motorized vehicles. This presents a hazard for Therefore, we favor a restructuring of the police officers when they stop such a vehicle. MOTOR VEHICLE EMISSIONS revenue formula so that the ability of the Michigan 17. New or replaced highway guardrails should be INSPECTION Department of Transportation and County Road constructed to eliminate the chance that a vehi- The Federal Environmental Protection Agency Commissions to build and maintain roads and' .c1e could be pierced by the guard rail. (EPA) is mandating Michigan and other states to bridges is maintained at least at the present level. 18. We commend the 4-H, Boy Scouts and others establish a program of motor vehicle emissions in- County Road Commissions must dedicate on their bicycle safety programs. We urge that spections by 1982. It is required that such inspec- themselves to using the most economical means the present laws pertaining to bicycles be amend- tions be made in those areas that do not attain the possible including the receiving of private bids on all ed so as to insure that bicycles yield to motor required air quality standards. In Michigan at the road construction to reconstruct and maintain vehicles in the lane of traffic and that safety flags present time this means in general the Detroit urban quality roads and to make the new tax revenues be made mandatory on bicycles used on public area and perhaps other urban areas throughout cover as many of the pressing needs as possible. roads and that all laws pertaining to bicycles be southern Michigan. While we question the need for We recommend as an aid to construction and more readily enforced. such mandatory emissions inspections we believe maintenance of local roads that townships that are that if they are required any legislation should apply financially able have the right to contract for their only to those areas of the state that have not attain- own road building program especially when county ed the air quality standards and that certain vehicles matching funds are not available. such as agricultural implements should be exempt When increased revenues ar~ again needed only from such inspections. We believe that this will be a "user taxes" should be used for road purposes. We most costly undertaking for the state as well as for must not revert to the property tax or special the motorist required to pay the inspection fees. assessments as a means of building roads. Every effort should be made to reach air quality standards without having to take this drastic step. HIGHWAY SAFETY Highway accidents take many lives each year. SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL Many people are injured and much property We recommend the Michigan Department of damage results. We have and will continue to sup- Transportation study the use of alternative port legislation which will promote highway safety. materials to be used as salt substitutes. in the' Efforts need to be continued. We recommend the removal of ice on highways. County Farm Bureaus following to further reduce highway accidents: should work with the appropriate groups in their 1. We urge that information and education be pro- areas for the moderate use of these materials. vided so that farmers become aware of the law We urge strict enforcement of a 1978 law. pro- involving movement of fClrm equipment on the hibiting the deposit of snow, ice or slush on the highways. roadway or highway. ~ 2. Minimum lighting is required by law on all farm equipment traveling on the road. One headlight RAILROAD/HIGHWAY CROSSING RAILROADS and one taillight are required in addition to the SAFETY Railroads provide an essential mode of transpor- slow moving vehicle (SMV) sign. We urge all We support legislation to require railroads to use ting agricultural commodities. The transportation of farmers to" maintain this required equipment. reflectors or reflectorized paint on the sides of rail agricultural inputs and commodities produced is 3. AU farmers should check their SMV emblem cars which would improve their visability. dependent upon efficient and continued railroad signs, replace those that are faded and worn and We urge MFB support of "Operation Lifesaver," service. Without adequate railroad service, it would urge their neighbors to do likewise. The SMV a four part program to promote railroad / highway be impossible for trucks to meet the need for law should be enforced . . crossing safety. The four-parts are: transportation at peak harvest time. Many rural 4. We urge farmers to use care in preventing and 1. Educating the driving public to appreciate and areas are served by roads subject to weight restric- keeping field and animal residues off roads as respect the risk of ignoring rail crossing warning tions making trucking costs uneconomical. these create highway safety hazards. signs. We support the continued efforts of the Michigan 5. Roads should not be used as headlands. It is 2. EnforGement. Department of Transportation to meet the many dangerous to the farmer and hazardous to traffic. 3. Engineering of the crossing grade. deadlines and other aspects of rail planning re- 6. Present laws which deal with stopping for school 4. Evaluation of the overall project. quired by Federal law. The Department should buses are not uniform in all areas and often lead continue to utilize citizen advisory groups in this im- to confusion. Uniform state laws should be portant planning process. At least one person adopted for the safety of both children and SPECIAL FARM TRUCK PERMIT familiar with agriculture and its transportation needs motorists. In 1976 the Legislature passed P.A. 74 which should be named to serve on each group. 7. All school buses should be equipped with two- provides that farmers using various types of We support appropriations by the Legislature to way communications for emergency purposes. vehicles "designed" for the purpose of hauling fund Michigan's share of subsidies necessary to re- 8. Hardtop roads should be marked with center crops at harvest time from the field to a place of tain essential rail and cross-lake ferry service. The lines and sidelines as an aid to safer nighttime storage be permitted to have a special $15 permit in state should not purchase railroad cars or water driving. lieu of registration and regular licensing procedures. transportation equipment. 9. County Road Commissions should be encourag- The vehicle cannot be used for any other purpose. _ Subsidies to retain essential rail service should be ed to clear roadsides and intersections of hazards This law has been very helpful to many farmers. considered a temporary solution. We believe within the road right-of-way that obstruct the However, due to the word "designed" in the re- privately operated rail companies should be en- view of motorists. quirements for a permit some trucks do not qualify couraged and allowed to operate the railroad 10. Renewed emphasis should be directed toward even though they are only used for the permitted system on a for-profit basis whenever possible and the placing of crossroad, yield or stop signs at purpose. We support an amendment to this legisla- in the best interest of shippers. unmarked rural intersections. tion which would make all vehicles used only for We commend the individuals who have stepped 11. Reflectorized license plates as a major safety the purpose of hauling harvested crops from the forward to execute contracts with the State for factor making disabled vehicles abandoned on field to the place of storage eligible for the special private operation of important rail lines serving rural roadways more visible. permit. Michigan. Shippers are urged to utilize services of- JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 19 Policies Reflect: Farmer Concerns, Thought fered by these carriers whenever possible. We favor urge all companies offering health insurance plans would be assigned to a statewide under- deregulation of railroads. to make available comprehensive coverage for writing association and shared equitably by mental health inpatient treatment, similar to other all insurance companies. WINTER NAVIATION health care coverage, and consider the mental ill- 4. We believe the "At-Fault" driver in an accident We support continued efforts to study and ness condition as any other necessary hospitaliza- should be made responsible for all damage caus- evaluate the social, economic and environmental tion. ed to the property of others. impact of winter navigation on the Great Lakes. 5. We believe that farm equipment built from a STATE JUVENILE CODE REFORM motor vehicle chasis and used primarily off the In concurrence with the Michigan Legislature, we road in the production of agricultural com- believe the time for reform of the State Juvenile modities should be exempt from the No-Fault Law Code is long overdue. law. LAW ENFORCEMENT We support reforms that would: A lack of respect for law and lawe.nforcemEmt 1. Preserve the present language in the law that a ORVINSURANCE agencies exists in our society. We urge citizens to minor shall be obedient "to the reasonable We recommend that owners of all off-road carry out their responsibility to help law enforce- demands of his parents". vehicles be required to carry public liability and pro- ment officers by offering pertinent information and 2. Establish clear guidelines for the courts, parents perty damage insurance whenever their vehicles assistance. We also urge support and expression of rights, juvenile rights, the protection of all are operated on other than the vehicle owner's pro- confidence to our law enforcement officers and citizens and cost effectiveness to county govern- perty. urge that they be given protection from liability ment .. when performing their duties. ,3. Simplify procedural requirements. TRACTOR SAFETY We urge judges to fit punishment to the crime. 4. Allow for detention if no facility is established From a safety standpoint and for convenience of Incarceration is not always the answer. The use of and space available within 25 miles for the court, operation we request MASA to work with tractor prisoners to accomplish community improvement providing minors are kept separate and apart manufacturers to position a PTO emergency shut- projects can benefit both the. prisoner and the com- from adults. off at the rear of the tractor outside the cab area. munity. Whatever the punishment it must be fair 5. Make provisions for a young offender to pay and dealt out swiftly. restitution to the victim of his crime and to give voluntary services to society. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES RURAL LAW ENFORCEMENT Recognizing the contributions of minority groups Adequate police service in rural areas can be an in our society,_ we believe that equal protection and important deterrent to rural crime. We urge both opportunity under the law should be fully extended state and local officials to develop long range crime to all. Social and economic inequalities continue to prevention programs to better assist citizens in the exist which preclude some from the full exercise of rural areas to reduce crime. While we are concern- their constitutional rights. ed about crime in cities we are very concerned with We believe that equal opportunities must be the assignment of additional State Police to available to all and oppose quotas requiring hiring metropolitan areas which seriously' reduces police or selection based on minority group or sex rather protection in rural areas. We urge adequate fun- than qualifications of the individuals. ding of police services in order that sufficient man- power can be allocated to rural areas. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN Michigan State Police is a highly professional Recognizing the contributions of women in police department providing all types of service to agriculture and other professions, we believe that citizens and support to other departments. We equal protection and opportunity under the law strongly urge the Michigan' State Police be main- '" /. should be fully extended to all women. Social and tained and funded as a total police agency pro- economic inequalities continue to exist which viding service to all of rural Michigan. preclude women from the full exercise of their con- stitutional rights. HEALTH COST DEDUCTIONS NO-FAULT AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE We congratulate the Michigan Legislature for the Those persons employed by others usually We support the general principles inherent in progressive steps it has taken to guarantee equal receive many fringe benefits including prescription Michigan's No-Fault, Insurance law, which became opportunities for women and urge it to continue drugs and health, dental, optical care and even life effective October 1, 1973, in that persons injured in such efforts. insurance. While such benefits are a part of their automobile accidents now receive economic com- total income they are not taxable. pensation more quickly and equitably. DOCTRINE OF GOVERNMENTAL Self-employed people must pay such costs out of There remains, however, aspects of the law IMMUNITY their taxable income. which: (1) restrict rIghts and responsibilities of the Statutory and case law has eroded the once To correct this growing inequity, we support individual and (2) unnecessarily increase claims strong doctrine of governmental immunity from tort legislation to permit those persons who pay their costs of .No-Fault and ultimately the insurance liability. We, therefore, find our local government own health care costs 10 deduct them from state premiums paid by motorists. agencies such as county road commissions, school and federal income taxes. For these reasons, we recommend legislative ac- boards, township boards, boards of county com- We believe that removing present inequities will tion to amend certain provisions of the law: missioners and hospitals as well as the individuals encourage the use of private health care plans. 1. Application of the No-Fault law to motorcycles serving thereon, faced with suits for damages should be redefined. At present, motorcycles are where the boards or commissions were performing EMERGENCY RURAL MEDICAL SERVICE not required to purchase mandatory No-Fault in- or intending to perform a governmental function. Emergency medical care to victims in rural areas surance but are eligible to receive No-Fault This has had the effect of depleting local tax is costly to provide. We recognize the need to main- benefits if they collide with an automobile. If revenues, taking the time of public officials and tain and upgrade needed services. Promulgation of motorcyclists are to benefit from the law, they public funds in defending such actions and requir- rules by the various state agencies often places un- should pay their fair share of the cost. ing high cost insurance coverage to protect against due hardships on rural ambulance services located 2. We urge the Legislature to redefine parts of the unfavorable settlements and judgements. in small, sparsely populated communities. law which, because of ambiguity, are in danger We believe that the doctrine of governmental im- We urge that the agencies involved consider of being interpreted by the courts far more munity should not have been weakened and we reali~tic standards for rural area taking into con- liberally than the law's original intent. support legislation that will have' the effect of sideration the financial resource base of the com- 3. Presently, the law provides that unlimited strengthening this doctrine. munity, limited available time and collective talent medical and rehabilitation benefits be paid to ac- of volunteers and reponse time in relationship to cident victims by their insurance company. We PUBLIC EMPLOYEE S11IlKES dis.tance of hospital facilities. support one of the following alternatives for the Although strikes by public employees are now il- purpose of controlling high claim costs: legal, the restriction is generally ignored. We INSURANCE BENEFITS FOR a. Establishment of a maximum benefit believe where public service and safety is concern- MENTAL ILLNESS CONDITIONS amount per victim, such as $100,000 ed the law must be enforced. Mental illness seems to receive discriminating which would be increased annually to We believe that state mediation and factfinding consideration regarding hospitalization and profes- reflect inflation, or, have been valuable tools in contr~ct negotiations. sional care insurance benefits. Many health care in- b. Establishment of a maximum benefit period However, we oppose legislation' requiring com- surance plans limit the number of days of coverage per victim, such as three years. Then, pulsory binding arbitration. This can result in the afforded a person suffering from mental illness. medical and rehabilitation expenses incur- elimination of local control by locally elected of- We believe the practice of defining separate red by individual accident victims in excess ficials and economic hardship on the local unit of benefits for this illness should be reevaluated. We of the maximum benefit amount or period government. J I • I.•. ~ PAGE 20 FARM NEWS JAN UARY, 1980 Policies Include: Direction on Issues Affecting Farmers In the case of school employee strikes, we do not JURY DUTY cradle to the grave. Many reforms are needed. We believe that teachers should have an advantage We feel it is a responsibility for citizens to serve as recommend: over other employee groups. Teachers should lose jurist in our judicial system. This obligation should 1. Able welfare recipients be required to engage in pay during a strike, the same as any other be extended to all citizens. The length of time an educational program or in some type of ser- employee. presently required is time consuming and costly to vice work as a criteria to receive welfare funds. our farming operations. We suggest that jury duty 2. Educational programs to help many welfare reci- ANNEXATION be limited to one week or less whenever possible. pients become aware of nutritional and health The State Boundary Commission was establish- needs, along with basic economics. ed under Public Act 691 of 1968. The Commission PRISON LABOR FOR PUBLIC PROJECTS 3. Continued evaluation of welfare programs to be is composed of three state members appointed by \Ve commend the use of voluntary prison labor sure that only those in need receive aid and that the Governor for three-year terms. After annexa- across the state in cleanup and beautification pro- existing regulations be carried out. tion petitions have been presented to the Boundary jects. We urge that this program be reinstated We urge legislation to reform the welfare 'system Commission the Probate Judge in the affected whenever possible. to eliminate abuse, prevent fraud and correct county appoints two county members to help mismanagement to prevent waste of tax dollars. decide the specific issue thus bringing the Commis- CAPITAL PUNISHMENT Welfare rolls should be available for inspection by sion to five members. Statistics from the 1978 Uniform Crime Report the general public. Petitions requesting annexation must be signed show that total crime has increased 8 % in rural by a specified number of voters in the affected ter- areas while at the same time urban crime decreased ritory and presented to the Boundary Commission. 1 %. During the same period statistics indicate This procedure was developed to provide a third violent crime has increased more rapidly in rural Farm Bureau party to decide the issue. We are concerned that areas than in urban areas. Indications are that a OUR FARM BUREAU township residents may not have an effective voice very large percent of the' crime is committed by a Our Farm Bureau. is a farm organization. It must even though they are directly affected. We urge few criminals. Second and third time offenders are be an aggressive organization geared to serving that affected township residents be given a vote in frequently allowed freedom to commit additional ,commercial farmers with bold and imaginative pro- the annexation question. heinous crimes against helpless, innocent and often grams. The building and maintenance of a bold and young victims. The criminal justice system and the aggressive farm organiztion depends heavily on at- UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE Legislature has taken a permissive attitude while tracting the best in farmer leadership. This leader- We believe the Uniform Commercial Code the list of victims grows. We feel that capital punish- ship must be active at all levels of the organization, should be amended to exclude livestock. This Code ment must be reinstated for first degree murder. from Community Groups through state officers. currently applies to anything that is bought or sold The organization must maintain the best type of and has an implied warranty section that NARCOTICS AND HARMFUL DRUGS employees to carry out the wishes of the members. guarantees quality. In the case of animals, for ex- The rapidly growing use of narcotics and harinful The primary purpose of Farm Bureau should be ample, this could guarantee to the buyer that the drugs must be stopped. We encourage massive, to serve the needs of active, producing farmers. animals will remain healthy for an indefinite length direct, and realistic education efforts to inform However, in serving these needs, we will un- of time and thus make the seller liable for damages youths, parents and others concerning the harmful doubtedly develop policies and establish many pro- completely unrelated to conditions at time of sale. effects of drug abuse. We oppose the legalization of grams and services which will attract some non- marijuana. farm people to our organization. BANKRuPTCY OF AGRICULTURAL Courts should continue to strengthen penalties We should welcome the support of non-farm HANDLERS imposed on drug pushers. people who wish to join our farm organization and Agricultural producers are often severly affected Rehabilitation centers and drug information pro- support the policies which are set forth by our when handlers of agricultural products file for grams are now available to drug users in most 'parts farmer-members. bankruptcy, since agricultural producers are regard- of Michigan. The authority and responsibility.for determining ed as general creditors. Therefore, we recommend We support enforcement of laws to tighten the who shall be a member and the classification of that agricultural producers be given first priority in importation, manufacture, ,and distribution of nar- membership should remain with the county Farm the distribution of the net assets of agricultural cotics and harmful drugs. Bureau Boards. handlers who file bankruptcy. The right to vote in Farm Bureau should con- tinue to be limited to regular members. We further VOTING endorse the policy of determining the number of A person should not be permitted to vote in any voting delegates to the state ann ual meeting based election in any community where he has not been a on regular member count, and urge that this policy resident for at least thirty days. Voters should be re- be extended to the American Farm Bureau Federa- quired to register in person a minimum of 30 days tion. prior to the election. In community, state, or national elections, undergraduate college students should be permit- ted to vote only at the residences of their parents. MEMBER RESPONSIBILITY We recommend that national election projections We are proud of our organization. As members, on Election Day not be released to the public until it is our responsibility to uphold and promote a all polls are closed. positive attitude toward the programs and policies We urge that clear, concise and simple language we adopt. be used on all ballot issues. Farm Bureau is a democratic organization with A common language is essential to the United every member having the right to participate in States of America, am:! an understanding of our making recommendations and decisions. The op- language is a requirement for naturalization. portunity to participate is available to members by Therefore, we urge elimination of any requirement attending Community Group Meetings, County for bilingual ballots in any public election. Annual Meetings, the State Annual Meeting, and serving on county and state committees. We are CAMPAIGN MATERIALS GUN CONTROL pleased that our members take this responsibility Elections are held frequently throughout the We believe our laws should place more emphasis seriously. state. Posters, billboards and informational material on the crime and the criminal rather than on the However, the right to participate carries with it has proliferated to inform the voters on the merits gun. We oppose further expansion of registration of the responsibility to' support the decisions of the of a candidate or issue. firearms. majority. This requires a sense of organizational We urge that either the candidate, party leader- discipline which can only be self-imposed by the ship or campaign committee be held financially WELFARE member. responsible to remove all campaign materials within Welfare is a necessary part of our system for We encourage our members to study, discuss a reasonable amount of time after the election. those who cannot sustain life without assistance. and recommend changes in policy when ap- Welfare accounts for a major portion of the State propriate. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE budget which increases each year. This program We are opposed to financial disclosure re- has been spiraling in scope and cost, and suffers MEMBERSHIP GROWTH quirements of public officials that would be imposed from abuse, fraud and mismanagement. We sup- Hard work and dedication on the part of hun- in pending legislation known as the Financial port welfare for those who need it. dreds of Farm Bureau members, insurance agents, Disclosure Act. We believe such requirements will Both food stamps and welfare are temporary and employees of Michigan Farm Bureau and af- discourage well qualified candidates and would not measures to be used by individuals during a time of filiated companies has enabled Michigan Farm- upgrade the standards and abilities of those serving proven financial need. These programs were not Bureau to realize twelve consecutive years of the office. intended and should not be used to sustain life from membership growth. JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 21 Policies Include: Programs to Service Members Continuing growth at a substantially increased still lives at the grass roots level and that the Com- We commend the numerous County Farm rate is fundamental to the financial health and effec- munity Group system is the best means of deter- Bureaus which have worked on local issues, thus, tiveness of the organization. mining members' interest and needs. providing a valuable service to their members. We We approve the 1980 County Membership Goal We recommend that this program be given urge all County Farm Bureaus to actively pursue Formula of a 5% increase over the previous year's renewed emphasis in the years ahead. To assist in local issues, thus, building a strong, more viable goal or the ending total, whichever is less. this endeavor, all county Farm Bureaus, should, in organization to serve members. With continued cooperation between the accordance with the County Relationship Agree- . members of the Farm Bureau family plus expanded ment, appoint an aggressive Community Group member only economic services, this membership POLITICAL ACTION PROGRAM Committee with the responsibility to get more growth objective can be reached. The candidates elected in the 1980 November younger members actively involved in Community We encourage each County Farm Bureau to .Groups ... elections. will be making daily decisions that will strive for regular member growth, recognizing full vitally effect agriculture. Good laws begin where well that much of the future membership growth MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU GROUP good lawmakers are elected. must come from the vast potential of rural non-farm PURCHASING, INC. We are pleased that our farm organization has an residents, residents who in many cases have similar Michigan Farm Bureau Group Purchasing, Inc., effective political action program and commend needs and concerns as their -farmer neighbors. administers a "Safemark" Group Purchasing Pro- members of the AgriPac Committee for the ag- gram for Farm Bureau members in conjunction gressive program they have developed for the 1980 with the American Farm Bureau Service Company. campaign. This program will again include the FARM BUREAU WOMEN We commend the Michigan Farm Bureau Board of designation of "Friends of Agriculture." These One of the main purposes of the women's program Directors. for making this significant economic designations will be made after the AgriPac Com- in Farm Bureau is to promote opportunities foI:'the service-to-member program available to all mittee has thoroughly analyzed the voting records women of Farm Bureau families to participate in Michigan farm Bureau members on a "for and other performance factors of incumbent office the organization. Farm Bureau women are an in- members only" basis. holders. tegral part of the total Farm Bureau family. We en- This is a county Farm Bureau program! County We urge each County Farm Bureau Board of courage the women to be involved in all Farm Farm Bureaus decide if they wish to participate in Directors to become active in the political action Bureau activities. We urge County Boards of Direc- ~he progr~m. County Group Purchasing Commit- program. This activity should include promotion of tors to support and promote active Women's Com:- tees appointed by county Farm Bureau Boards play AgriPac among the county members, providing mittees in all counties .. We also encourage Farm a key role in selecting and supervising Safemark AgriPac with input on incumbent legislators and Bureau Women to direct their efforts especially to dealers and in promotion of the program among analysis of the candidates in various races where no leadership development, legislative and political ac- the county membership. incumbent "Friend of Agriculture" is running. tivities~agriculture understanding, health and safe- We challenge all county Farm Bureaus to par- We urge every Farm Bureau member to support ty, and local affairs activities. ticipate in this program and make members aware AgriPac with a contribution. Funds will be solicited We commend the women's leaders for instituting of the Safemark products through active Safe mark through the Michigan Farm News, direct mailing programs to encourage the participation of young Committees. We further challenge every Farm and through various regional fundraising activities. farm women and stress the importance of continu- Bureau member to take advantage of these Income tax credits and deductions are allowed for ing this effort. economic savings. political contributions. Funds raised will be allocated to "Friends of Agriculture" in various districts based upon need and effectiveness. FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS The major goal of the Young Farmer program is to surface and develop new Farm Bureau leader- COMMUNICATIONS STUDY ship. The State Young Farmer Committee has Communication is a very important part of to- been successful in initiating county Farm Bureau day's world. Through the wonders of modem programs that promote and develop Young technology we are able to instantly communicate Farmers into strong leaders and active Farm with people. Farmers need to receive daily informa- Bureau members. They accomplish this through tion as a tool of good management. Information on various activities such as discussion meets, leader- markets, legislative affairs, membership and other ship conferences and district meetings. items should be available to members. Young Farmers are eager for meaningful in:. We are pleased that Michigan Farm Bureau is volvement in vital issues concerning agriculture as conducting an in-depth study to determine the evidenced by their recent marketing programs. The communication needs of members and systems to Young Farmer program will be successful if given meet those needs. strong and active support by county Farm Bureau leaders. We encourage county Farm Bureaus to HEALTH AND SAFETY recognize achievements of Young Farmers at the I We urge Farm Bureau to continue to create county level and their efforts in leadership activities. health and safety awareness and to promote a need MICHIGAN AGRICULTURAL SERVICES County Farm Bureau Boards working with coun- for projects for healthy and safe families, including ASSOCIATION ty Young Farmer Committees, have proven to be fire safety and promotion of smoke alarms; first aid M.A.S.A. has established itself as the primary the catalyst for the development of strong' Young I source of information on farm labor issues for its training; farm home, and traffic safety, and chronic Farmer programs. Major emphasis will be given in M.A.S.A. members. It plays an important role in illness detection. 1980 to increasing the involvement of Young interpreting the complex rules and regulations Response to emerge"Fies by trained personnel in Farmers at ,the county level, on Farm Bureau many areas is often too slow to assist the victim. which dictate the employment requirements on the Boards and committees. We also encourage county farm. We urge every Farm Bureau member to avail First aid, C.P.R. and the Heimlich method for Farm Bureau supervision of the county Young himself to this valuable M.A.S.A. farm labor infor- assisting choking victims should be offered by utiliz- Farmer Committee. mation. ing local resources such as police and fire agencies We commen~ the state and county Young Two new M.A.S.A. prqgrams also deserve Farm who may provide assistance and training. Farmers for new and innovative programs. Bureau members' consideration and support. The We also urge Farm Bureau members to serve on ,.., .. ,"11 Legal Services Program provides members with state, regional and local commissions and commit- readily available, well-qualified legal counsel, when tees regarding health and safety. COMMUNITY GROUPS and if it'is needed. Our predecessors, the architects of Michigan The Legal Defense Fund Program developed by HEALTH CARE Farm Bureau, built the Community Group program M.A.S.A. allows farmers to pool their resources in Our Farm Bureau health care program through as a structure to maintain the organization's grass defending their rights in court. Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Michigan continues to roots effectiveness. For many years, it was We appreciate the fact that M.A.S.A. programs provide Farm Bureau families with the best group recognized as the "backbone" of the organization, are for Farm Bureau members only. We urge Farm health care coverage available at the lowest possible providing Farm Bureau with a two-way com- Bureau members to utilize these M.A.S.A. pro- cost. munications system between the members, county, grams. Participation in this very important service-to- state leaders and staff. member program continues to grow with over Community Groups are a main source of policy LOCAL AFFAIRS 37,000 Farm Bureau families enrolled in our Com- recommendations for many counties and are vital Members are proud to be associated with an prehensive and Econo Plan. We commend Blue contributors to policy execution. They offer an op- organization that takes a strong stand on local Cross-Blue Shield for the implementation of cost portunity for leadership development of our issues, and follows through with effective action on containment efforts which contributed towards a members and for active involvement of members in problems which affect them locally. A strong effec- substantial rate reduction for some 34 000 their organization and in their communities. tive Local Affairs Program builds County Farm members enrolled in the Comprehensive Plan'. We believe that the strength of this organization Bureaus. We are gratified that the Board of Directors ap- PAGE 22 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1980 Michigan Farm Bureau ...... proved additional benefits as part of the Com- Bureau in newspaper articles, news programs and FARM BUREAU MARKETING PROGRAMS prehensive Plan in the way of medical emergencies documentaries to give a firsthand account of how We continue to recognize agricultural marketing and pre and post natal care. current issues affect farmers. Many county Farm as a major concern of farmers. Many farmers are in- Since health care costs are primary out-of-pocket . Bureaus report that area TV and cable TV outlets terested in learning more about marketing their costs for Farm Bureau members, we urge the have been very supportive of agricultural program- commodities in the most advantageous way. Farm Board of Directors and MFB staff to continue their ming. Ingham, Gratiot, Alpena and Northwest Bureau should continue to develop educational efforts in seeking the best health care coverage at Michigan, conduct television programming, often programs along with the Cooperative Extension the lowest possible cost for the Farm Bureau produced by farmers themselves, with good suc- Service and other agencies to provide farmers with members. cess. We commend the local farm leaders who this information. have participated in these public relations activitfes. We urge -Farm Bureau at the county, state and" We have also seen a strong development in in- national levels to actively support sound m'arketing RURAL CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAMS formation activities at the county Farm Bureau level programs and marketing legislation which will im- Michigan Farm Bureau is proud of its Rural to improve media relations and keep the member- prove members'incomes. We request strong, ag- Crime Prevention Program. We appreciate the sup- ship informed about the issues, activities and ser- gressive managment from our affiliates to be com~ port 9f the Michigan State Police, Michigan Pro- vices that are of interest to farmers. Information and petitive which will encourage all Farm Bureau secuting Attorney's Association and the Michigan public relations activities at the county level have members to support programs of their affiliate com- Sheriff's Association along with other. organizations resulted in better news and agricultural feature panies. Farm Bureau stands ready to assist in making it successful. coverage of special events sponsored by Farm members in meeting their marketing needs. We believe citizen participation is an effective in- Bureau such as Agricultural Understanding Day, gredient in law enforcement and crime prevention. shopping t:nall displays, rural-urban meetings, farm ESTATE PLANNING Therefore, we encourage all Farm Bureau visits and educational and county fair promotions. We recommend that all members investigate members to participate in the Operation Identifica- We salute the Farm Bureau members who p"ar- tion Program and to make use of the marking planning for the purpose of reducing estate taxes at ticipated in the Michigan State Fair project and the the time of death. A knowledge of wills, trusts, equipment available. Harvest Dinner in Detroit. By volunteering their marital deductions," and existing tax laws should We also believe that the Operation Eyes program time and effort, many farmers were able to meet enable the family to make provisions for: is another effective tool in the prevention of rural with consumers and discuss agriculture on a one to 1. Minor children and family members. crime. We urge Farm Bureau members to par- one basis. Farm Bureau members statewide ap- ticipate in this program and that it be expanded to 2. Continuation of the family farm. preciate the work done by the people who par- 3.' Equitable treatment of the spouse: all counties as soon as practical. ticipated in these projects. We further recommend that Michigan Farm SERVICE TO MEMBERS Bureau explore new methods to communicate the Valuable economic services are a prerequisite to importance, need, and value of estate planning for all members. continued membership growth. We are pleased with the progress being made by Michigan Farm We commend the Farm Bureau Insurance Bureau and its affiliate companies in expanding Group for the progress that"~has been made to current service-to-member programs and in develop a comprehensive estate planning for developing new programs. We recommend that in members. every possible instance these programs be for members only. ORIENTATION OF EMPLOYEES AND We appreciate the action by the Farm Bureau AGENTS Mutual Board of Directors and management to The employees of Michigan Farm Bureau and all establish a membership requirement for the of its affiliated companies represent our overall Farmowners policy at the same time that cov~rages were expanded. These changes resulted in signifi- cant economic savings to Farm Bureau members . We urge the Farm Bureau Mutual Board of Direc- tors to continue to explore expansion of benefits for members only. .,r --.. ; / -/. ~ ...-. .. Farm Bureau organization when Uninformed or misinformed employees or agents may contribute to a poor or weak image of Farm Bureau. We commend the efforts being made to inform contacting members around the state and the public at large. We commend Farm Bureau Services - Farmers employees about the objectives, philosophies, and Petroleum Cooperative for developing and financ- programs of Farm Bureau and all affiliates through ing the new $10.00 rebate program for all Farm APPRECIATION FOR SERVICE - WJR a regular liaison program. We encourage expan- Bureau members who purchase designated pro- WJR-AM radio in Detroit, as Michigan's only sion of this program on a priority basis. ducts from FBS-FPC outlets. "clear-channel" radio station, is in a unique position to communicate with both rural and city residents. COORDINATION OF AFFILIATE COM- PUBLIC RELATIONS FOR AGRICULTURE It admirably fulfilled this communications function PANIES We are proud of the public relations activities of in .1979 by cooperating with 12 Michigan Farm Michigan Farm Bureau and affiliate companies Michigan Farm Bureau and our members in Bureau members in the "Acres for Charity" project. share a common goal - to serve farmers. We con- presenting the story of agriculture to the non-farm In the project, these 12 farmers and their county tinually strive to have all patrons of affiliate com- population. Farm Bureaus agreed to donate the proceeds from panies become members of Michigan Farm As farmers become a smaller minority of the three pigs, three apple trees, three acres of wheat Bureau, and to have all Michigan Farm Bureau population, the need for more public awareness of and three acres of dry beans to a Detroit charity. In members patronize their affiliate companies. We the contributions of agriculture in our economy return, throughout the growing season and harvest must continue this effort. becomes increasingly important. WJR's air personality J.P. McCarthy let these In the meantime, we have many Farm Bureau All farmers benefit by these public relations ac- farmers explain "on the air" some of the rewards members who are excellent potential customers or tivities and we urge Farm Bureau members to work and challenges of the farming business. policyholders for affiliates. We also have affiliate through their organization at the state and county We salute WJR for its cooperation in making this patrons and policyholders who are excellent pro- level to build a greater understanding of project a success and helping to contribute to a spects for Michigan Farm Bureau membership. agriculture's importance to farm and non-farm peo- greater understanding of the agricultural business. We urge County Farm Bureau Membership ple alike. The Farm Bureau women's Speakers' Committees and local affiliate company personnel Bureau is an outstanding example of farmers telling MEMBER-TO-MEMBER MARKETING to work closely together in sharing prospect lists. the "farm story." We appreciate the effo'rts of MACMA to expand Agreements signed between county Farm Reaching the urban population with agricultural the direct sale of top quality products to Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau affiliate companies have news and information is the goal of the Michigan Bureau members through its Direct Marketing Divi- been used effectively to clearly define the respon- Farm Bureau public relations program. Daily and sion. sibilities of the parties involved. It is of utmost im- weekly agricultural news and commentary is We urge the MACMA Direct Marketing Division portance that every county Farm Bureau Board available through radio programming, news to give priority attention to a sales program for review their affiliate company agreements annually. releases, and a weekly agricultural news packet. Michigan products to Farm Bureau members in This review will help to create a better understan- These services continue to receive widespread ac- other states. ding of the duties of both parties and lessen the ceptance from the Michigan news media. We are We also urge MACMA to study the potential of chance of misunderstanding. pleased that Michigan Farm Bureau has earned a Direct Marketing of farm products through food co- reputation as a reliable and respected source of ops in our Michigan cities and communities. agricultural news. Member-to-member marketing holds a great COOPERATION WITH OTHER FARM The real "voice of agriculture" however, is future potential as a market for our products and as ORGANIZATIONS farmers themselves. We congratulate our members a service to our members, but we must never forget We urge Michigan Farm Bureau and the who have spoken on behalf of agriculture and Farm that strict quality control is vital to success. American Farm Bureau Federation to continue to JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 23 "Growi~g with Agriculture" work in coordination with 'other farm organizations the premium paid. We request Farm Bureau revenues from crops and livestock. Many farmers in executing the policy positions adopted by this Mutual Insurance Company to develop and pro- own timberland and in many cases depend on convention. mote any safety programs which will result in forest products or forestry-related work to supple- We believe that continued active participation in reducing our members losses and which will even- ment their agricultural income. This is especially meetings with other general farm and commodity tually reduce premium rates. true in the northern two-thirds of Michigan. organizations has resulted ill improved communica- Therefore, we will continue to actively represent tion and understanding between organizations. We SALE AND LEASING OF MINERAL RIGHTS the forestry interests of. members and promote urge Michigan Farm Bureau to continue active par- A farmer leases or sells the mineral rights to pro- forestry as an agricultural enterprise. ticipation in this type meeting. perty on very few occasions in his lifetime. It is dif- We commend the American Farm Bureau ficult for him to keep abreast of current values and Federation for extra effort in coordinating support determine if he is receiving a fair offer for. his STATUS OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS for national marketing legislation with the National mineral rights. We recommend that a presentation The policies adopted at the four previous annual Council of Farmer Cooperatives, the National be developed on the sale and leasing of mineral meetings are hereby reaffirmed except insofar as Farmers Union, and the National Grange. rights. , they have been modified or supplemented by later policies, including those adopted at this annual PROPERTY INSURANCE RATES FOREST INDUSlRY meeting. All other policies shall be deemed to have Property insurance rates should reflect actual usage Approximately one-half of Michigan's land area lapsed except insofar as the Board of Directors may of the insured. Individual management practices is classified as forestland. In many rural areas, specifically find that such a prior policy provides the which impact safety and risk should be reflected in revenues from forest products often exceed the only basis for action on a current problem. Dennis Wilkin Named Jim Licht Wins Young Farmer "Distinguished Young Farmer" Dennis Wilkin, 29, who operates an lIDO-acre cash does custom combining to boost his farm income. Discussion Meet Contest _ crop farm near Canton in Future plans of Wilkin and Jim Licht, a Huron County Wayne County, was named his wife, Amy, include farmer, will represent the "Distinguished Young Farmer" ownership of a farm with 200 Michigan Farm Bureau Young for 1979 by the Michigan Farm acres under irrigation, a storage Farmers in a national Discus- Bureau. Wilkin was honored grain business, and expaDsion sion Meet in Phoenix, Arizona during the MFB annual of their strawberry crop to a in January 1980. Licht com- meeting in Kalamazoo and will "U-Pick" operation. peted with Michigan regional represent Michigan at the "Agriculture is moving into a winners during annual meeting American Farm Bureau new era with new ideas and activities of the Michigan Farm Federation's national contest in new technology," says Wilkin. Bureau at Kalamazoo. The Phoenix, Arizona, in January. "Without leadership qual ities, series of problem solving Ranel you could be left behind. An in- discussions focused on U.S. The Wilkins' total farming novative young farmer must be food policy and export trade. operation is leased or rented. They began farming 10 years one of the leaders in the new agricultural era." Contestants examined cur- ago with 280 acres and have rent U.S. export levels and sur- Wilkin has served on the grown rapidly since then. faced concerns for world food Wayne County Farm Bureau Because of their good reputa- prices and distribution. Accor- board of directors,' Young tion with local landowners, ding to Licht, farmers export Jim Ucht, Huron County, (right) accepts congratulations Farmer Committee, and Policy they have been able to rent one of every 3 planted acres in and a plaque from Young Farmer chairman David Conklin Development Committee, and larger farms and better ground. the U.S., 'but they have little for winning the 1979 Young Farmer Discussion Meet. Licht was recently elected president Progress has been the key of the Wayne County Farm control over the market price will represent Michigan In the national contest at the AFBF word in the Wilkin's enterprise worldwide or distribution of annual meeting In Phoenix. Bureau. He has served on the - changing to no-till planting, Michigan Farm Bureau Natural their products in developing nations. world market. We simply do U.S. grains returns dollars adding a grain dryer and Resources Committee and was not have the leverage in inter- spent for oil to our county, he storage facility for crops, mak- a legislative leader during the Licht calls a food for oil national trade to guarantee oil says. ing improvements in farm organization's annual trip to policy unrealistic. "We cannot supplies based only on trading recordkeeping, using the Licht operates a 200 acre Washington, D.C. last year to pursue such a policy in these U.S. food." cash crop farm near Pigeon, futures market, incorporating a visit with congressmen about developing countries," says However, says Licht, Michigan. He is the young skip-row soybean planter and issues of concern to farmers. Licht. "Their populations are agricultural exports do bolster irrigation. farmer representative on In addition to his service to often so small that their de- the U.S. dollar through balanc- Huron County Farm Bureau In addition to his farming Farm Bureau, Wilkin has also mand for grain can be met by ing our trade deficit. A strong board of directors and is active operation, Wilkin hauls grain been active in the ASCS, Pro- other producing nations in the international trade market for in bis local church. for neighbors in his off-season, duction Credit Association and justifying ownership of aI, 000 4-H. Dennis and Amy have bushel capacity truck. He also three children, ages 3, 4 and 5. MFB, FFA Conduct Producers' Forum While Agriculture Secretary dinated the program with FFA timely and appropriate to the Bergland deliberated the struc- officials, the forum focused on issues that are facing all ture of American agriculture in the decisions young men and farmers, not just young a series of national "dialogue" women make as they enter farmers," says Currey. "I was meetings, a group of Michigan production agriculture. "About impressed with the ability of the FFA seniors were planning and 80 percent of the students par- instructors to convey the im- discussing their own future in ticipating in the forum will go portance of the topics to the production agriculture. into full time farming im- young people. We are very The young men and women mediately after graduation grateful to the faculty of representing Michigan's 185 from high school or after com- Michigan State University's chapters of the Future Farmers pleting a two year agricultural various colleges for their of America attended the first technology program," says cooperation in a successful annual Producers' Forum at Currey. Producers' Forum." Midland, Michigan on The Producers' Forum is the December 6-7. The Producers' Workshop discussions ex- first youth seminar conducted Forum was sponsored by the amined factors and issues in by the Michigan Farm Bureau Michigan Farm Bureau and the agricultural marketing, partner- exclusively for state FFA Michigan Association of Future ship agreements, energy con- members. The forum was very servation, credit management, well received by the students, Farmers of America. MFB Young Farmer outgoing Chairman David Conklin legal rights and responsibilities, says Currey, and definitely will (left) congratulates Amy and Dennis Wllkl~ on being nam- According to Don Currey, and agricultural public rela- be continued on an annual ed the Distinguished Young Fanner for 1979. MFB staff member who coor- tions. 'The topi~ were very basis. • I PAGE 24 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1980 Between Delegates Protest MDA Budget You (Continued from Page 1) and Me slaughter plants, it .would also create unemployment and loss By Judy Kissane of tax reven ue ." 1980 Michigan Farm Bureau Another area of concern Outstanding Young Farm Woman - ,.a.:.. to farmers, Smith said, would be the elimination of grain elevator audits and enforcement. "This would leave us with no protection You CAN against insolvencies and poor business management Make a Difference in the grain industry," he explained. "Recent It's that time of year again how Farm Bureau policies are bankruptcies, and the resulting losses to farmers, ••..... -.... when we look back over the developed? Every county has a last year's accomplishments policy development commit- have emphasized the need and failures and look foward to tee. Their function is to en- for such protection." the coming year. courage the study and discus- Another anticipated cut New Year's resolutions - sion of issues and problems would involve the discontin- ~ most everyone makes them - uance of weights and "The threat of elimination of Michigan's meat inspection brought up by Farm Bureau but very few people can measures enforcement which, program could mean a revival of the 'Hot Dog War' ... " community groups and Farm stated President Elton Smith at a press conference during truthfully say at the end of the Bureau members. The commit- Smith said, "would have a the MFB annual meeting. year that they carried them out tee obtains the needed infor- serious adverse impact on con- for the full twelve months. mation and prepares an ade- sumers and our entire state's might carry gypsy moths and disrupt our growing This year, instead of the quate slate of policy recom- economy. There is no federal from one area to another. lumber export trade." usual ones, such as losing mendations to be presented to agency that checks weights and Loss of Michigan trees Smith said he hoped the 10-20 pounds or to stop smok- the members at the annual measures, so no one could would also des,troy a concerns of farmers would be ing, let's have some real resolu- meeting. Every Farm Bureau verify the accuracy of the scales valuable source of energy' considered by the governor. tions. Resolutions that will be member should make it a real used to weigh everything from for the benefit for our Farm point to put his or her thoughts produce in the grocery store to Bureau and its growth. Resolu- -and ideas into the policy gasoline, heating oil and ce- Young Farmers Elect Officers tions that will supply us with development process. ment. If this enforcement is personal growth while we carry There are many other com- eliminated, it could also result A new slate of officers were Distinguished Young Farmer them out. mittees you could look into in seizure of Michigan products elected by the state Young contest. He is also active in We might make it simple by such as the citizenship commit- by other states, with the even- Farmer Committee to guide 4- H and the Michigan Duroc just saying, "This year I'll get in- tee, nominating and various tual loss of sales and credibili- the MFB Young Farmers in Association. volved," but getting involved is service committees or the ty." 1979. The new officers elected simpler said than done. It's The farm leader said that at the MFB annual meeting in Sanford and her husband membership campaign. the p-ossibility that budget Kalamazoo on November 28 Neal operate a dairy farm in hard to get involved if you're Membership is a very important not aware of all the different cuts'"may eliminate the gyp- were L.C. Scramlin, chairman; Jackson County. She is a and challenging area because it sy moth program alarms Janis Sanford, first vice chair- nursery school teacher and programs in Farm Bureau. is our members who make the The first step is to take stock the agricultural communi- man; and Glenn Preston, sec- has served as her county's organization. of yourself and find your areas ty. "Without an eradication ond vice-chairman. Young Farmer Committee co- Maybe you're a young program, a gypsy moth chairman. of strength and interest. If farmer and not sure where you Scramlin, who will repre- you're interested in local issues want to start. The young population explosion sent the Young Farmer Com- Preston operates a dairy and problems and working with farmers committee is a really would surely occur," he ex- mittee on the MFB board of and cash crop farm in Branch county commissions, check good place to start. Their com- plained. ''The USDA would directors, operates a 650-acre County. He served as a Young with your local affairs commit- mittee provides opportunities be forced to quarantine the dairy and hog operation in Farmer representative on 'the tee. If, by chance, your county for leadership development, whole state and require in- Oakland County. He has 1979 state Policy Development doesn't have a local affairs education and enables them to spection or treatment for served on the county Young Committee, is a member of . committee, then your resolu- be active, participating the movement of logs, Farmer Committee, was the the Branch County Fa'rm Bu- tion should be to start one. . members of their county Farm Christmas trees, vehicles district Discussion Meet win- reau Board and the Dairy If you like speaking and Bureau. or other articles which ner and a finalist in the Commodity Committee. writing, think about the infor- Women of the state, check mation committee. Your job out the women's committee would be to inform farmers, and the activities they have Farm Bureau members and the planned. The women's pro- general public about Farm gram promotes and par- • Monthly reports , Bureau programs ana policies ticipates in the entire scope of • Complete tax informa- and to create understanding Farm Bureau programs with tion with depreciation and support of these programs. emphasis on those activities If you are a camera bug and schedule particularly suited to the talents like to take pictures, then the and interests of women. Many • Non farm personal information committee is the times a woman will become ac- income and expense place for you. tive in the women's committee, reports Are you intrigued with then branch out into other politics and hpw they shape committees as she grows and • Computerized for quick our lives? Look into the state or develops her leadership accurate service national affairs committees. abilities. • Easy to use and Your role would be to know, From personal experience, I understand understand support and work have found that there is a place for the adoption of legislative for everyone in the Farm • For more information, policies on the local, state and Bureau family. All you have to contact: national levels that have been do is look for your place. Michigan Farm Bureau established by Farm Bureau So as you look over your list members. of New Year's resolutions, let Farm Records Servic f: ". , What about the commodity this be your #1 resolution: "Be P.O. Box 30960 from your farm? Have you ever it resolved that I will take a lansing, MI 48909 felt it wasn't getting the atten- more active part in my Farm 517 -323-7000 tion it deserved when it comes Bureau organization." to marketing and promotion? Until next month, Check with the commodity committees and take an active remember: Even though you are only one person, you can FaRmr1 part in their market develop- ment and research programs. make a difference if you take an active part in your organiza- BUreaU Do you sometimes wonder tion. JANUARY, 1'980 FARM NEWS PAGE 25 Trade is Two-Way Street Dr. Hoefer Receives "Dist~nguished Says CODlDloditySpeaker Service to Agriculture" Award The People's Republic of China has given high priority to the world's fifth largest pro- ducer of primary energy and the modernization of its the third largest coal producer. Dr. Jacob Hoefer, associate agricultural industry, according It has exploded atom bombs director of Michigan State to Dr. Kenneth Bader, chief ex- and built high powered com- University's Agricultural Ex- ecutive officer of the American puters. periment Station, was Soybean Association. Speak- "In contrast, China today presented the Michigan Farm ing at the commodity session of has 65 times more bicycles Bureau's highest honor during the Michigan Farm Bureau an- than cars, no national electrici- ceremonies at the organiza- nual meeting in Kalamazoo ty grid, no national highways, tion's annual banquet at Center, Dr. Bader said it was only 3.5 million telephones, Kalamazoo Center. Dr. Hoefer "small wonder" that the only 200 Telex machines and received' the Farm Bureau's Chinese hierarchy has set this 85 percent of their locomotive "Distinguished Service to priority, since agriculture there production is still steam," he Agriculture" award for his employs 80 percent of their reported. "leadership, service and con- total labor force and feeds the The need to modernize is tributions to Michigan's world's largest human and serious and the Chinese have agricultural industry." livestock population. begun the process in earnest, . In presenting the award, "China's total economy Bader said, "but they are par- Elton R. Smith, MFB president places them among the top ticularly perplexed with the fact said: "Jake has a long record of ranking countries in the world," that labor productivity has service to agriculture in our said Dr. Bader. "Their GNP for steadily declined over the past state. He is well respected in 1978 was $444 billion, sixth. 10 years." Shortages of fer- the academic and scientific largest in the world. China is tilizer and agricultural Dr. and Mrs. Jacob Hoefer (center and right) are arenas, but equally well chemicals is another problem presented with the MFB 1979 Distinguished Service to Agriculture award by President Elton Smith at the annual respected by farmers "No-Growth" faced by the Chinese, he said. banquet November 29 during the MFB 60th annual throughout Michigan." (Continued from Page 1) Although the Chinese are meeting. Dr. Hoefer has been "The federal government owns making strides in improving associated with Michigan State or rents enough office space to their production capabilities, University since 1950 when he fill the equivalent of 613 Sears Bader said they will contin ue to was named professor of Tower Buildings in Chicago - be good customers of U .S. Animal Husbandry. Since that the tallest in the world. In grain and soybeans . "Trade is a time, he has served as acting 1978, the General Services two-way street," he reminded chairman of two departments Administration bought over the farmers attending the ses- Animal Husbandry in 300 thousand tons of paper for sion. "It is obvious that we in 1966-68 and Food Science federal agencies. That the United States will have to and Human Nutrition in translates to 66 billion sheets of buy materials and goods from 1970-71. In 1967 he was nam- 8l/2x 11" paper. If each of these China if we expect them to buy ed associate director of the sheets were laid end to end, our agricultural production." Agricultural Experiment Sta- they would circle the equator tion, a position he still holds. 461 times or could make 48 He served as dean of the Col- paper roads to the moon." lege of Agriculture and Natural Smith said farmers must use Resources, and in 1979, he their political clout wisely in the \1 was named to the Natural 1980 elections to change con- Resources Commission by ditions in this country. "I Governor Milliken. believe we have too many peo- For 22 of the past 23 years, ple in too many key places who the Michigan Farm Bureau has do not believe in the system presented its "Distinguished that has made our America the Service to Agriculture" award greatest place in the world. It is to persons _who have made going to take work by people outstanding' contributions to like you and me, who believe the well-being of farm people. in growth and who believe in Dr. Denis Waltley, psychologist who worked with Presentation of the honor takes our economic system, to astronauts and with prisoners of war, talked to the MFBan- nual banquet crowd about "The Psychology of Winning." place each year at the organiza- remove the non -believers from power," he concluded. Make Sock Dolls tion's annual meeting. FREE Instructions .. Renew Membership By Jan. 30 for subscribing to Crafts i1CJhings r •• .r r. I L If .., !.~ ! Receiving medical care is often associated with worry or anxiety, but Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Michigan If you enjoy making pretty things (or subscribers have the edge taken off, by the simple act of would like to try your hand at it), presenting their plastic ID cards. 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Various subscribers through the years have consistently Many are made from common throw- indicated that they really appreciate the handy, easy to aways and cost almost nothing! use Blue Cross-Blue Shield ID card, which eliminated Crafts 'n Things shows you how ... with much time and red tape, filling out lengthy forms, having easy directions. step-by-step illustra- information checked and double checked, etc. Blue Cross tions. full-size patterns, Subscribe to- and Blue Shield of Michigan subscribers are encouraged day at no risk ... moncy-back guarantee. to always carry their 10 cards. It is an important health t"ralts""7n Thi;;gS,"D"lpt56G)ukRidge} C6006i1 care feature that is unduplicated elsewhere. Enter my SUbscription to Crafts 'n I I Things and sendmy FREE Instructions. I If not completely satisfied, my money Farm Bureau members are fortunate to have health care I will be promptly refunded. I protection available to them under the Blue Cross-Blue I $9 for 1 year (9 issues) I Shield group plan. I Save $2.25 off single-copy price I But don't forget - to remain eligible for this protection I 0 Paymentenclosed 0 Bill me I you must have your dues paid by the January 31, 1980, I IName I deadline. Don't take a chance on losing this valuable I I To look at the "real you" objectively, Dr. Waitleysug- bonus, renew your membership in Michigan Farm I"":A-:d-:-d-re-ss----------I gested putting a paper bag over your head ... Two mystery Bureau today. I , I delegates took his advice seriously. ~~ ~S~t.!! ~i£... .£~ PAGE '26 FARM NEWS JAN UARV', 1980 People MFB, Affiliate Company Staff Changes Announced Governor Appoints Members Several staff appointments and changes of responsibilities to Soybean Committee have been announced by Two Michigan Farm Bureau Bureau president. He has serv- Michigan Farm, Bureau and members have been appointed ed on the MFB Soybean Com- two affiliated companies since to the Michigan Soybean Com- mittee and will serve as District late October. mittee by Governor William G. 2 representative (Calhoun, Milliken. Appointed were Gary Branch, 'Jackson and Hillsdale L. Albright of Branch County counties) on the committee. and Donald M. Korte of Wayne County. Korte, of Canton, a soybean Albright, of Bronson, is a full-time farmer with 900 acres under cultivation (400 acres in soybeans). He has been active and corn farmer, serves as District 4 representative (Wayne and Monroe counties) on the committee and was first appointed in 1976. He is a -- ~ 1~ " .l GENE GREENAWALT in the county Farm Bureau, has served on its executive member of the board of direc- Gene Greenawalt, MFB RON NELSON committee and was recently tors of the Michigan Soybean /' regional representative in the elected Branch Coun.ty Farm Association. Central Region, has been pro- On December 1, Ron moted to senior regional Nelson, former MFB Local Af- Michigan 4-H Youths I representative. In his new posi- tion, Greenawalt will assume fairs specialist, assumed newly created position the of greater responsibilities for train- legislative counsel. In his new Nationally Recognized Robert Craig has been ap- pointed' the manager of the ing county leaders and new regional representatives and position, he will work with the Michigan Legislature and state A Michigan 4-H member, science and the showmanship Commodity Activities and will assist in the coordination of govern_ment agencies in im- who enjoys working with award at the county fair. He Research Department. Prior to Farm Bureau activities through plementing Farm Bureau animals and farming, has won won blue ribbons on his beef, assuming his new position with the Organization Department. policies. a $1,000 special 4-H scholar- swine and rabbit projects. MFB on November 19, he was ship. Burkett served as president in charge of the Resource Rick Burkett, 18, of 26149 of his 4:H Club and attended Economics Unit, Land M-60 West, Cassopolis, was "Share-the-Fun" activities at Resource Program Division of one of two 4-H members Michigan State University Ex- the Department of Natural selected by the Cooperative ploriition Days. He also was Resources. Extension Service to receive selected to attend the National the $1,000 scholarships from 4-H Citizenship Short Course The Edwin T. Meredith Foun- in Washington, D.C. dation. Winners were an- He said that his own farm nounced at the 58th National animals and crop production 4-H Congress held in Chicago are his main interests. Nov. 25-29. However, he enjoys aiding Burkett, son of Cass County younger 4-H members with members Mr. and Mrs. Robert their projects. BECKY JEPPESEN E. Burkett, plans a career in Debie Mahaffy, of Snover, veterinary medicine. daughter of Sanilac County Becky Jeppesen has been ~r "Choosing to be a veterinarian Farm Bureau members Mr. named the new Michigan Farm ROBERT EPPELHEIMER is very challenging to me as I and Mrs. Irvin Mahaffy, Bureau regional representative in the Northeast Region. Jep- Following the resignation of feel I can help the farmer with represented Michigan at the I' Dick Westra, Robert Ep- his problems," he said. "Living on a farm has given National 4-H Fashion Revue. Sponsored by Simplicity Pat- U _ I pesen's appointment was effec- tive November 5; she replaces pelheimer has been named PATTI BURNS the new manager of the me great exposure to animals tern Co., Inc., the revue was Bill Craig" who transferred to Michigan Agricultural and the need for the held in conjunction with the Patti Burns has been ap- the Southeast Region. Cooperative Marketing maintenance of their health." National 4-H Congress in late pointed assistant director of the Prior to assuming her new Association Direct Marketing He added that. in veterinary November in Chicago. Member and Public Relations position, she was a commodity Division. 'Prior to assuming his medicine, he will still be closely Mahaffy was a state winner Department for Farm Bureau and facility loan clerk with the new position, he was a loan of- related to agriculture. in the fashion revue program, Services, Inc. and Farmers Montcalm County ASCS of- ficer with the Lansing branch of Burkett, who has been a 4-H and designs her own clothes. Petroleum Cooperative, Inc. fice. In addition, she has also the Production Credit Associa- member for seven years in She is a nine-year 4-Her a,nd Her appointment was effective worked for the Michigan Farm tion. Cass County, has completed has worked closely with October 29. Radio Network. 4-H projects in swine, beef, younger 4-H members in the rabbits, dairy, cooking, veterinary science, agriculture program. She was one of 51 state win- Governor Appoints Members to Asparagus and food-nutrition. ners who modeled their own He earned 4-H awards in beef, agriculture and veterinary ensembles gress. at the 4-H Con- Committee, Ag Labor Commission Go v ern 0 r Will i am G. serves on the committee as a Bel a n g e r , a full - t i m e Necia Sharkey Appointed Milliken has reappointed Farm representative from the agricultural worker and orchard Bureau members, Wayne R. Southern Michigan area. manager from Williamsburg, to ADA Position Fleming, Oceana County, and succeeds John D. Young of Necia Kelly Sharkey has and in-store point-of-sale pro- Paul Wicks, Cass County, to Both members were ap- Caro; and will serve as a year- been appointed program coor- motions conducted three times pointed in 1978 when the com- d I I k the Michigan Asparagus Com- mittee was first established in roun agricu tura wor er dinator for the American Dairy yearly throughout the state. mittee for terms expiring accordance with P .A. 146 of representative on the commis- Association of Michigan, accor- She will also assist in the November 13, 1982, subject to 1978. sion for a term expiring June ding to an announcement by development of ADA's new Senate confirmation. 27, 1981. Bonnie L. Lynch, executive Foodservices Program. Timothy L. Belanger, a Smith, of Carleton, a farmer Fleming, who has a 400-acre director. member of the Northwest and partner in a greenhouse, As program coordinator, dairy, fruit and asparagus farm Prior to joining ADA of Michigan Farm Bureau, was has served on the commission near Sh~lby, serves .as a Sharkey will be involved in Michigan, Sharkey was appointed to the Agricultural as a grower member since Central-Northern Michigan marketing and public relations employed with Delta Dental Labor Commission by Gover- 1969. He is a member of the programs designed to promote area representative. Plan of Michigan. She has also nor William G. Milliken; and Ash Township Planning Com- the dairy industry in Michigan. been active in several com- Wicks, an asparagus grower Louis Smith, Monroe County, mission and the Michigan Such programs include the munity and political organiza- who is a partner in Plainview was reappointed to the com- Agricultural Labor Camp Ad- new Dairy Diplomats project tions in the Lansing area. Orchards near Dowagiac, mission. visory Committee. jJXNUA~V,'1~~ t=ARKi1 NEWS . PATIE 'l.7 Farmer-Legislator Communication Vita~ Says Hort Speaker "Communication between legislators, the adverse effects them which is in the public in- farmers and legislators must oc- which many of these laws have terest. cur to ensure a healthy on our state's farming industry. Increasing government agricultural industry in regulation was criticized by Kruger listed four alter- Michigan," said Farm Labor Kruger. It "is causing farming to natives that farmers have under Specialist Dr. Daniel Kruger of become more and more like a the current system of laws. Michigan State University. public utility with an army of First, the farmer can comply regulations. Too many times Speaking at the 108th an- with the law. Second, he can individual agencies do 'their nual meeting of the Michigan break the law and accept the thing' without considering what State Horticultural Society penalties if caught. Under the the other agencies are doing." December 6 in Grand Rapids, third alternative, the farmer can Whether it's legislation deal- Kruger sai,d, "Too often change the operation of the ing with workers compensa- legislators do not understand farm so that no farm tion, child labor laws or the Oc- the unique features of employees are needed, cupational Safety and Health agriculture and that many times thereby, not being affected by Administration, Kruger said lawmakers and administrators the law. The final alternative that each piece of legislation of legislation use the industrial requires the farmer or grower has a price tag. "On one hand model as a basis of laws which to strive to modify, change, or the nation is very concerned often affect agriculture. Since alter the onerous features of about inflation, yet somehow this occurs, " Kruger added, the law. fails to understand that every "there remains a need for Kruger explained that it is a new law, every new MI-OSHA careful and accurate review of mistake -to gain legislative sup- regulation, has a price tag. " all state legislation that impacts port for farmers, to claim that Kruger emphasized, "It's the on agriculture." MSU Farm Labor Specialist Dr. Daniel Kruger, speak- agriculture should be exem~ lawmakers who are the feeders ing at the Michigan State Horticultural Society meeting The farm labor specialist from legislation. Farmers and of the inflationary pressures in Grand Rapids, Dec. 6 said that communications be- said that Michigan farmers growers, in his opinion, should which affect the state and na- tween farmers and legislators must occur to ensure a must bring to the attention of support legislation affecting tional economies." healthy agricultural industry in Michigan. "More IlDportant to be Great"--President's ColuInD (Continued from Page 2) added to public confusion with have gone by and what has great. Our organization is not a tions and the cost of those solu- insects, weather and other a highly sensationalized version happened to those promises? populist type of organization tions. disasters do not file an impact of the theme that drugs con- The budget deficit has grown that swings and blows in each I hope that Americans will statement before they hit. They sumed by animals may cause every year. Instead of reducing political wind. We have taken hear about an energy program hit and we must be ready to great difficulties and perhaps bureaucracy, it has grown. Just stands based on member which will make us less depen- fight back. We must have death in humans. this year a new department was adopted policies. Sometimes dent on foreign countries. But agricultural research to be Yet no scientific documenta- created - the Department of these stands were not popular let's not be fooled by ready to meet those disasters, tion exists that a single case of Education. with the no-growth groups. statements that "we're coal and to remain competitive in human illness has resulted from The number of U.S. govern- But those stands have gain- rich," because the no-growth our production. resistant bacteria made resis- ment civilian employees is ed respect. I'm sure all of you crowd won't let us mine the I believe we have too many tant by the use of antibiotics in three times as large as the total have read in the October issue coal. people in too many key places livestock or poultry feed. employment of the American of Successful Farming the I hope we hear about foreign who do not believe in the The end result of such Telephone and Telegraph results of a study made by that trade. But remember the no- system that has made our misleading material, presented Company, the world's largest magazine. It concluded that growth crowd does not see America the greatest place in over time to an unsuspected private employer. farmers have seriously under- food production as one of our the world. It is going to take public, is the restriction or We hear much about foreign estimated their political muscle. strengths. They believe "Food work by people like you and outright ban of many products investors buying farmland. Ac- The Successful Farmer said, for people, not for profits." me, who believe in growth and or processes important to farm cording to a USDA publication "By a wide margin Farm We should hear discussion who believe in our economic production. entitled, "Who Owns the Bureau still reigns as the single, on . reducing the regulatory system to remove the non- It follows just as surely as Land?", less than one half of most influential farm organiza- burden on individuals and in- believers from power. night follows days that if one percent of all farmland is tion." Farm Bureau scored an dustry. Again, you'll probably Elton R. Smith American agriculture is denied owned by foreign investors. At 80% ranking in the "impact" never hear the no-growth energy and chemicals, our pro- the same time, over 40% of all category. The second highest crowd admit that regulation is a duction will decline. Our land in the United States is farm organization was 42 % . step towards stagnation. balance of trade will become owned by the government. If Sometimes, we as farmers, Certainly we ought to hear a even a larger deficit. We ex- put together, the 742 million ,get concerned about our lot about inflation, but on this perienced a $30 billion deficit acres owned by the federal political power. Oklahoma issue the no-growth crowd will in 1978, even though government would cover all Senator Henry Bellman recent- talk only in terms of inflation agricultural exports were a states east of the Mississippi ly said, "I can't think of any being inevitable and at what record 29 billion. The deficit plus Texas and Louisiana. other sector involving only 4 % level is it acceptable. They will will again grow this year, in Now is the time for of the population which has never talk of the need to spite of new record agricultural Americans to rise up, to speak fared as well legislatively as balance the budget and curb in- exports of over $30 billion. out, to demand that govern- farmers." As farmers we have flation. No-growth people fail to see ment stop growing. They must clout. We must use it wisely, As farmers I hope we de- the danger of a continued trade demand or speak out to the but we must use it! mand to know the views of deficit. They do not want to fact that freedoms in this coun- A second reason I believe candidates regarding funding understand that we can not try include more than the right Farm Bureau has a chance to of agricultural research. Having keep on spending more money to dissent, to free speech, to affect the future of this nation is spent two weeks in the Soviet abroad than is returned to this worship, to peaceful assembly. because we have started our Union this fall, I can assure you country. We are becoming People must recognize that we Political Action Committee that nation is increasing its hooked on foreign countries for also should have freedom from program. AgriPa~'s activities spending in agricultural the strangling regulations and are vital. We are not buying research. In the United States, Big 1OOth Anniversary catalog has many of our basic needs, just many money-saving specials to im- as an addict becomes hooked suffocating bureaucracy of faVOr!. We are supporting however, we are not keeping prove your home and reduce food on the source of supply for his government. those candidates who will sup- pace. If we are going to remain costs. Free gifts for early orders. port our basic beliefs. the world's leading agricultural Hundreds of trees and shrubs. Straw- habit. This country, just like the So far in these remarks I may berries, raspberries. dwarf fruit trees, addict, must pay the price in have sounded alarmed about One year from today the n~tion, we had better do more grapes, roses and helpful gardening one form or another. the conditions in this country. If elections of 1980 will be over. research. tips. Send for your catalog today. Of course the no-growth The only area where .the no- growth crowd seems to allow I have, it reflects my true feel- ing. But I think things can be Frankly, I believe much of the hope for this nation rests on philosophy, wants to curb r:- _aJP AND MAIl TODAY_ - , growth is in government . changed. They must be chang- those elections. I am concern- agricultural research. They • KEUY BROS. NURSERIES, Inc.. 921 Maple St .• Dansville. NY 14437 • While a candidate for office, ed. I am convinced that one of ed that what is happening at believe all chemicals are • Rush My FREE KeIy Centennial Catalog to: President Carter talked about a the forces that will make them this time is a development of a dangerous. They believe en- I;:PMIT , personality contest. That must vironmental impact statements change is the Farm Bureau. Let I~ , _~~~~====-Zi-p:J balanced budget and reorganization in government me tell you why. be changed. The American are more necessary than in- to reduce duplication and in- First, Farm Bureau has people deserve a good discus- creased production. But as I --I L: --------- lSorry, .. CiltMp to AZ. CA. OR •• AI crease efficiency. Three years known that it is important to be sion of issues, potential solu- farmers we know that diseases, PAGE 28 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1980 Farm Women Moving Into the Spotlight in 1980 Recognition of the needs of will be conducted at no charge available from the county at retirement and frequently ble for disability benefits. farm women and their roles in to participants. Management Cooperative Extension office. the employed wife will take that "Homemakers 'cannot get the farming operation has information sessions will The USDA will also be taking benefit because it is more than disability benefits at all because resulted in new programs and feature farm labor manage- a closer look at the role of farm the benefit available under hE!r they have no Social Security in studies planned for the coming ment, farm office procedures, a women in today's modern farm- own name. "What this means," their own name," Moser em- year. discussion of the American ing operation during 1980. says Moser, "is that a family phasizes .. From the Michigan State Dairy Association's Dairy According to a recent an- with two wage earners fre- Moser cites changes, in the University Cooperative Exten- Diplomat program and a nouncement by Secretary of quently receives the same Social Security system propos- sion Service and Dairy Herd review of the latest DHIA dairy Agriculture Bob Bergland, the Social Security as a one-wag~- ed by the federal government Improvement Association management techniques. USDA will conduct a nation- earner family which has con- to give women more equitable (DHIA) , comes a series of Other sessions will cover life in- wide survey and study of farm tributed less to Social Securi- treatment. daylong seminars for farm surance and recent changes in women. The survey and study ty." "First of all, Social Security women to be held at 18 loca- probate laws which affect the are part of the USDA's Farm Women who take time out benefits could be split in half tions throughout Michigan dur- farm family and farming opera- Women's Project, established from employment may also between an employed husband ing January and February. tion in event of the spouse's to look into the status of farm lose their right to disability and a wife for as many years as The series of programs, death. women in relation .to USDA benefits. The law requires the they are married," she says. "If focusing on effective farm Information about the programs, program manage- disability beneficiary to have the couple is divorced, the management for farm women, seminar p;ogram nearest you is ment procedures and employ- earnings during recent work woman would still be entitled to ment structure. quarters prior to the disabling half of the benefits from their ''The intent of the survey is condition. marriage because it would be in $150 to provide a record of farm women's experience USDA services and farm pro- grams and their perceptions of the department," with Bergland said. "It will also provide us According to Social Security rules as currently written, full time homemakers are not eligi- DeVuyst Reappointed her own name. This change _ would probably not increase (Continued on Page 31) OFF These Farm Bureau with a knowledge of women's roles in making farm manage- ment decisions. knowledge will help the depart- ment better ?erve the needs of farm women who can and do This to Farlll Credit Board Board, headquartered Paul, Minnesota. DeVuyst, whose in St. current Pet Center Products use USDA programs and will help identify opportunities term expires December 1979, was named to a second 31, I 30 I ----------------- C .. Dog Power Good on 25 lb. or 50 lb. bags DEALER: This coupon Is redeemable on the basis of your purchas 30el II where women can participate in programs at a management and advisory level." The Farm Women's Project -- 3-year term by Donald Wilkinson, governor Farm Credit Administration. of the The board sets policy for the E. I of the product from November 1, 1979,.to April 30, 1980. Dealer submit to FBS for credit on future purChases of pet food products. I will also report on a study of Farm Credit System in the To Consumer: Coupons are redeemable only on brands specified. the legal rights of farm women Seventh District - the Federal • Please sign and date this coupon for validation. I .,.'1. I in relation to USDA programs Land Bank, the Federal In- 130C customer signature date .• 30C1 and services. termediate Credit Bank, and L COUPON EXPIRES APRIL 30,1980 The rights of women was Bank for Cooperatives, and ~-----------------I 130c Premium Cl1Jmbles 30e• also the subject of a recent release from the Cooperative Extension Service of Michigan State University. According to LARRY DEVUYST local Federal Associations Credit Land Bank and Production Associations. district includes the states of The • I DEALER: This coup~~?~ee~~b~~nlt~~ ~~s:?y!e.p?,:~s~~-- of the product from November 1, 1979, to April 30, 1980. Dealer submit to FBS for credit on future purChases of pet food products. I • that release, farm women, and Larry L. DeVuyst, a cash- Michigan, Wisconsin, Min- .i To Consumer: Coupons are redeemable only on brands specified. -- • all women, ought to be' con- crop farmer from Ithaca, and a nesota and North Dakota. I Please sign and date this coupon for valid:IiOn. (A cerned about their rights under member of the Michigan Farm DeVuyst raises corn, navy 130 C customer signature date .~ 30 C• the Social Security system. Collette Moser, a public Bureau board, has been reap- beans and wheat on 700 acres. • - COUPON EXPIRES APRIL 30, 198cJ-- • pointed director-at-Iarge on the He also farrows and finishes ~-----------------I : 30 C Vim 'N Vigor . Good on 25 lb. or 50 lb. bags 30 c I • employment Cooperative specialist for the Extension vice, says the Social Security system is outdated Ser- and Seventh District Farm Credit Wasson to Retire After 2,400 hogs per year. • DEALER: This coupon Is redeemable on the basis of your purchase discriminates against women. of the product from November 1,1979, to AprllJO, 1980. Dealer • • I submit to FBS for credit on future purchases of pet food products. To Consumer: Coupons are redeemable only on brands specified. Please sign and date this coupon for validation. I Changes are needed to assure • more equitable benefits for 30 Years with FBS/FPC working women and 130e customelsignature date 30e• homeTl1akers, she reports. Arlo E. Wasson, director of the Member & Public Relations L COUPON EXPIRES APRIL 30,1980 I :30c -----------------1 Big Red Puppy Food 30 Good on 25 lb. or 50 lb. bags c I • "The Social Security system was developed in 1935 when fewer women were in the labor force, " says Moser. "It was Department Petroleum of Farm Bureau Services, ,Inc. and Farmers Cooperative, will retire in early 1980 after Inc., I DEALER: This coupon Is redeemable on the basis of your purchase of the product from November 1,1979, to April 30, 1980. Dealer I designed assuming every fami- spending over 30 years with ly consisted of an employed I submit to FBS for credit on future purchases of pet food products. To Consumer: Coupons are redeemable only on brands specified .• husband, these two cooperatives a wife who was a Michigan Farm Bureau. and I Please sign and date this coupon for validation. homemaker, and children. T 0- Arlo began his career with day, both homemakers and Michigan Farm Bureau in 1949 IL30C COUPOI::l'~XptRES ~PRil3o, 19~~~ 30c: many employed women, are as a district membership 130e I -----------------, U'I Red Cat Food Good on 25 10. or 4 - 5 lb. bags 30cI I not classified equally with men, . represen,tative because their benefits are main- ly determined band's income. by their hus- Often, in Northern Michigan. In 1952 he trans- ferred to Farmers Petroleum Cooperative and held the ARLO WASSON I DEALER: This coupon Is redeemable on the basis of your purChase f!!..Rt,a" of the product from November 1,1979, to April 30, 1980. Dealer ~- I employed married women are following positions - super- Petroleum Cooperative, became director of the Member I I submit to FBS for credit on future purchases of pet food products. i""!W To Consumer: Coupons are redeemable only on brands specified. Please sign and date this coupon for validation. I discriminated against even visor' of Field Promotions, & Public Relations Department more than homemakers." 130e customer signature COUPON EXPIRES APRIL 30, 1980 date ..... , aoC I Because women may have no earnings during the years manager of Patron Relations Department, Distribution sales manager of Division, in 1978. Arlo and his wife Shirley have two daughters, Mrs. Jerry ----------------- FaRmr1 AVAILABLE AT YOUR when they are raising their families, their lifetime earnings average is low, affecting their retirement benefits under their marketing manager, and vice president of the Marketing Divi- sion. In 1973 he became director (Mary) Thompson Ledge and Mrs. of Grand (Sylvia) Roger of Mason, and one son, Tom Wasson of Rad- William BUreaU FARM BUREAU SERVICES own name, says Moser. of Public Relations and ............ alMCfl oHC 'nor, Ohio. ANIMAL FOOD DEALERS Wives are eligible for a Marketing Services, and with In retirement, Wasson plans 94 spouse benefit, which is 50 per- the reorganization of Farm to do more fishing, traveling cent of their husband's benefit Bureau Services and Farmers and wood working at home. JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 29 "Farmers of the Week" Labor Leader Emphasized Need to Honored by FBIG and Speak Against Anti-Growth Advocates "We have reached a point Mich. Farm Radio Network when some important deci- sions must .be made to assure The Farmer of the Week Committee; member of the the American people that there Award, sponsored by .the Bloomingdale Christian will be future economic growth Michigan Farm Radio Network Church; member of the and enough energy to provide and Farm Bureau Insurance Bloomingdale Telephone that growth," said Stan Arnold, Group, recognizes Michigan Board; member of the Bloom- secretary-treasurer, Michigan farmers for their contributions ingdale Athletic Boosters' State Building and Construc- to the agriculture industry and Club; and member of the Van tion Trades Council, AFL-CIO, the community. In addition to Buren County Farm Bureau. in a recent appearance before recognition from the news He and his wife, Marilyn, have members of the Michigan Farm media, award winners receive three children. Bureau board of directors. a plaque and a specially- designed award buckle and Arnold, who serves as chair- leather belt from their local man of the Michigan Commit- FBIG agent. tee for Jobs and Energy, visited MFB President Elton Smith (right) greets Stan Arnold, chair- The Farmer of the Week with the board to explain the man of the Michigan Committee for Jobs and Energy. Arnold Award winners for November concerns of the coalition of met recently with the MFBboard of directors to explain the con- 1979 were: cerns of the coalition of labor, business and industry, education labor, business and industry, and energy producers. education and energy pro- They call these places under- planting and harvesting, it is ducers. Elton R. Smith, presi- developed countries." imperative that energy be dent 'of the Michigan Farm One way to turn the anti- available," he said. "Because if Bureau, also serves as a direc- growth movement around, Ar- farmers are denied energy at tor of Michigan Committee for nold suggested, would be to re- these critical times, then the Jobs and Energy. JIM LICHT mind those involved that livelihoods of not only farmers "The motivation to organize without sufficient energy when will suffer; also included in the the committee came from self- Week of Nov. 19 - Jim it .is needed, "everything from suffering will be an estimated Licht is a 21-year-old cash interest, anger and the fact that cauliflower to chickens is an en- 27 percent of the state's crop farmer from Pigeon. He a growing number bf so-called dangered species. " To flirt with population which receives farms 200 acres and grows public interest groups were in- an energy shortage would some portion of its income navy beans, sugar beets, com terfering with the political pro- and wheat. Licht was selected make PEOPLE, not just plants from agriculture." cess and leading us toward a d Jq to represent the Michigan Farm Bureau Young Farmers. in a national discusssion meet to be held in Phoenix, Arix., in no-growth society, and bring- ing about changes which were slowing energy growth and and animals, an endangered species, the labor leader warn- ed. Arnold concluded: "No mat- ter if you are a labor leader, business leader or agricultural "The farm bloc doesn't use a leader, the time has come for January 1980. He is a member development, halting energy PAUL GROFVERT great amount of energy direct- intelligent people to stand up of the State Future Farmers of exploration, stagnating the Iy, but when it needs energy for and be counted." Week of Nov. 5 - Paul America (FFA) Alumni Coun- economy, promoting inflation Grofvert, a Kalamazoo poultry cil; chairman of the Laker FFA and stopping or stalling projects farmer, raises pullet chicks. Alumni Affiliate; serves as that put people out of work," He currently farms 100 acres benevolence treasurer for his Arnold explained. and in the course of a year he church; is a member of the "I am talking about people raises over 360,000 pullet chicks. Grofvert teaches Sun- church choir; chairman of the Huron County Young Farmers who, in the name of the en- vironment and the public in- I day School at Twin Lakes and member of the county terest, bombard the media, . Get In On The Profits! Reformed Church; is a past Farm Bureau board of direc- Sharpen elder in his church: served as pack political meetings and tors; and has earned the Silver treasurer and manager in the State Farmer Degree and the hearings, intimidate. some of Alamo Township Boys' American Farmer Degree from our political leaders, file Baseball League; is a past 4-H leader; is a member of the Kalamazoo County Farm Bureau and past officer on the the FFA. He also served as State FFA president for one year, regional FFA vice- president, and FFA chapter lawsuits, seek injunctions and stage scare tactic rallies, " he said. "These people oppose nuclear power plants and Saws ALL home, garden county Farm Bureau board president. choose to ignore the un- and has served on the Alamo. Township Zoning Board. He paralleled safety record. They and shop tools! oppose coal fired power plants, There's plenty of business waiting and his wife, Eleanor, have for the man who can sharpen three children. ignorant of the fact that new saws, garden and shop tools for SHAP,P-AlL I"s Easy To Get Started I safeguards minimize the impact home and industry. Sharp-All WIth . _~ to invest thousonds of dol- of coal on our environment." You don t ~ . business for yourself. does them all, and at a big profit lors to geT stOrt~ ~nd our 50 years of ex- Arnold reported that a leader for you. No inventory' is in- Low cost ~orp-, sincere men to earn volved ... no selling. You take in penence In hel~~ desire to get ahead of a demonstration against the exfrO incomeede. P Complete OperoTors ftN:)n- year-round Cash profits and keep Midland nuclear plant said if he 90ft out of every dollar you earn. is oil you n ' ep-b srep insrrucfions. uol gives dear. Sf ~~rpen each Tool. had the power, he would go Work sparetime hours or fulltime shows exoctly h?W TOwheT to chorge. how through much of American's right at home, and we'll even fi- where to geT bUSln~. oil the "tricks of nance you. TOgeT fr~ o~~~AiI' does me kind of style of living with a wrecking the frode. Anth brilV"t~ cuSfomers bock precision j~ aT , "'$'" ball. time offer ome .. fees with "If he had his way, Sunday There ore NO fr%,c~ YOU ~t the Shorp-All YOU ore e~ .. ' you pUT the FRITZKLiEWONEIT drives would become a lux- hours yOU wont to w ... ury," said Arnold. "Individually profiTS in YOUR pockeT! Week of Nov. 26 .- Fritz G. owned homes would be a thing Kliewoneit, a dairy and crop of the past. There' would be Send TODAY for details of our farmer, farms 440 acres and more bicycles, wood stoves milks 30 cow~ near Gladwin and candles. Solar power If coupon has bun • .• umov~d, just s~nd 30-Da, FREETrIal OIIerl with his son, Keith. postcard ,.'jth IliJm~ andaddrw to: BELSAW SHARP-ALL Co.,6042 Field Bldg., K. C., MO 64111 Kliewoneit, 52, is a member of would be the only way to dry the Gladwin Schools Board of clothes. It is unfortunate that Education; treasurer of Grout Township in Gladwin County; some of these remarks are not made public. If they were, I "o..'. BELSAW SHARP-ALL 6042 Field Building B? CO. RUSH: COUpo./\ ROBERT REMINGTON vice-president of the area more people would realize the I Kansas City, MO 64111 --rJ ,..ODA Week of Nov. 12 - Robert K. Remington, 38, raises hogs, Michigan Milk Producers Association; president of the need to speak out against the anti-growth advocates. There I ~ . ~' Please send my FREE copy of your book . I I ~ "Lifetime Security" and full details on : I I I soybeans and feeder cattle Gladwin County Farm Bureau; are places in the world now I ~ I c.sc-- -A your 30-Day Free Trial Offer! I I member of Our Savior near Bloomingdale in Van Buren County. He farms 800 acres. Remington is a member Lutheran Church in Gladwin; and member of the Gladwin where homes individually don't exist, owned where I I ~L-- Name I I County Fair Board Associa- candles and bicycles I .c4"~ -Ad-d-te-ss----------------- I of the Bloomingdale School L _ tion. He and his wife, Yvonne, predominate, and where solar Board; vice-chairman of the I ~~ City State Zip .. I Bloomingdale Township ASCS have four children. energy is used to dr9 clothing. PAGE 30 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1980 WATER Something very serious is happening to water that should be causing widespread concern. The availability of fresh water - our access to fresh water - is rapidly diminishing. Our seemingly inexhaustible suppliies of water are being strained by the demand for commercial, industrial, recreational and residential uses in our YUVIl: by KEN WILES Manager, Member Relations society. We are using, wasting and polluting water on a scale unprecedented in the history of man. It is diminishing because the total amount of fresh underground tables and flows into the sea. Con- Iy. This not only wastes enormous amounts of water available on earth is not the same today as it densation, evaporation and transpiration sends. water, but, if continued over time, can reduce the was at the beginning of time. Fresh water amounts moisture back from the land and the oceans into productivity of the land according to some experts. to less than 1 % of the total water supply. The the atmosphere to produce more precipitation - Modern equipment makes it possible to control the balance - the other 99% - is in the oceans or that entire cycle is driven by solar energy. application ot water so that the total amount need- locked up in the polar ice caps. Beyond man's practice of depletion and con- 'ed to produce a crop and to protect the productive tamination, the scientific community. now warns potential of the soil is m'uch less on a seasonal basis, that something more fundamental may be happen- resulting in conservation of both water and soil and Averting a Crisis ing to distort the normal hydrological cycle. reduced consumption of energy. The Food and Climate Forum, of the Aspen In- Another very important method of water conser- It is unfortunate, but true, that our society has stitute for Humanistic Studies is attempting to deter- vation- is recycling. It is one of the most effective become crisis oriented. It takes some catastrophic mine, among many other related objectives, the ex- ways for expanding the availability of our finite event or some other action that deeply affects large tent and in what way the world's climate is respon- water resources to sustain the needs and economic numbers of us in a personal way before we react ding: sufficiency of a growing world population. with sufficient, collective force. -to changes in the sun, Le., radiate intensity. The~e exists today the expertise and technology And then our reaction tends to be hasty and im- -changes caused by man's injection of carbon diox- to take waste water from virtually any source, purify patient - demanding quick solutions. ide into the atmosphere, thereby creating a it and use it again for any purpose: to swim, bathe A case in point, of course, is the recurring energy greenhouse 'effect. and even drink. crisis. In spite of the severe disruptions caused by -and by changes caused by the irregular solar pat- The most common use of recvcled water in this' the 1973 oil embargo and in spite of repeated ad- tern and sun spot activity such as those country today is irrigation. When waste water is monishments to curtail use, we continue to act as suspected of diverting the jet stream and obstruc- used for irrigation: though the supply of fossil fuel were unlimited. ting the flow of moisture bearing air masses over -the cost of treatment is reduced. The same kind of attitude has followed the California in 1972 that resulted in drought and -the soil provides the third stage treatment and disastrous drought four years ago that disrupted huge losses to farmers. returns the wastewater, thoroughly cleansed, to lives and livelihoods in southern California. There The Forum has stated that "increased availability the water table. are other similarities between the energy crisis - of water will not improve a future drought if the ad- -in the process, nutrients in the effluent fertilize the which is real - and the potential use for a water ditional resources are employed wastefully or are turf and other vegetation. crisis - which is not yet with us, but which could be used as a means of justifying further urban growth." -the amount of potable water discharged into the far more disruptive and harmful. What all of this means is that potential for crisis - oceans is significantly reduced. Both have deep seated implications. We ex- based upon our waste and misuse of water and As with everything in our complex world, there perience the consequences of conflict with respect based upon baffling occurrences in the solar system are some pitfalls associated with the recycled fluid. to oil almost everyday. Conflicts over water reach that effect weather and climate - is pending. Effluent must be properly managed. That is a small much further back into history - to Biblical times What should we do about it? price to pay for the advantages gained, the most - but the forces of the conflict continue unabated important of which is the conservation of a to this day, as you well know. priceless, indispensable, very limited resource. We are not, at this point, talking about survival. Proposed Solutions We are talking about potentially crippling conse- All sorts of solutions have been proposed: quences of water shortages on a local, regional, na- iceberg towing, cloud seeding, construction of new tional and international scale. dams, canals and reservoirs. Some of these pro- posals are feasible, but most are controversial. What We Can Do Natural Cycle Disrupted There is cautious optimism that we'll find ways to All of us can help by treating that resource with the respect it deserves. We can stop wasting it and desalinate the oceans economically. The consensus There are atmospher:ic anomalies and in the scientific community, however, that day is stop polluting it unnecessarily. We can urge those phenomena occurring that no one seems to a long way off. government a'uthorities that manage our treatment understand fully, but which could further com- Until that day comes, the most viable alter- plant to recycle the effluent - at least a few times pound our water supply problems and disrupt natives are water conservation and management before it is dumped into th~ ocean. historic distribution patterns. practices, which means we must: stop wasting fresh There's no large scale immediate threat of In a natural state, water that is taken away is soon water resources; stop polluting it so we don't have anyone dying of thirst any place in the world. But it replenished by the hydrological cycle. But we have to spend as much ,time and money repurifying it; appears that a false sense of security is inspired by upset the normal, natural balance to such an extent and learn how to use it and reuse it, over and over the vast amounts of water that surrounds us. We that the hydrological cycle can not replenish or again. look at the oceans and we see water. But it is not purify our water at the rate we are using it and It has been suggested that since agriculture ac- water that we can drink or use for irrigation. polluting it. counts for approximately 80% of the water con- It is the appearance of plenty that deceives us in- Prior to the invention of mechanical energy, sumption in the United States today, it is an ob- to believing that our water supply is more than ade- most water was drawn from surface water - rivers, vious place to look for opportunities to improve quate. Evidence to the contrary is abundant. We do lakes and streams - from rainfall or from shallow, water use efficiency. not have access to sufficient quantities of fresh underground water tables. Historic practices in farm irrigation have been to water to allow us to waste it and abuse it in the way In more recent times, we have literally mined apply water in large amounts relatively infrequent- that we have. We must treat it with respect. away'many of the great aquifers; for example the Ogallala Aquifer, which underlines much of the Central Plains. Water is being pumped from the aquifer and other underground water sources for residential, industrial and agricultural purposes at A "AUCTION IS ACTION" rates far greater than they are recharged, resulting in subsidence - the sinking of land. That is hap- pening at a frightening pace in many parts of the tt'[1(ONI ~@ DALE A. DEAN Auctioneer - Broker United States. and . In addition, of course, we have contrived countless ways to impound and collect water and to D.A.I'S #1 divert it for various purposes. All of this upsets the normal hydrological cycle. "I~ 222 N. Michigan Avenue ReaI_ Team" Office 517/279.9748 Precipitation on land and sea and the melting of Coldwater. Michigan 49036 Home 517/278-6127 the glaciers and snow caps produces fresh water that enters the water sheds, recharges the JANUARY, 1980 FARM NEWS PAGE 31 Women in Beef Referendum Spotlight (Continued from Page 28) the cost of the total system." Dates Are Set Another alternative, says, would be to guarantee Moser The voting dates for the proposed beef research and eV'ery retired person a information program will be February 19-22. minimum Social Security The four-day voting period will follow a registration • Michigan's largest General benefit, plus whatever benefits Farm Organization: period of 12 days, from January 26 to February 6. the retiree earned as a worker 64,000 Members This year's referendum will require that cattlemen in their own name. • Safemark Tire/Battery approve the measure by a simple majority, rather than the A third alternative would be Group Purchasing two-thirds vote required it} the 1977 referendum. The 1977 to put a dollar value on work at • legislative Counsel referendum failed to obtain the two-thirds vote needed for home so that homemakers • Farm Records Service passage. • BC/BS Health Care Options would be eligible for retirement • Member Only Group Benefits Absentee voting will be allowed in the referendum as it and disability benefits in their • Commodities and Marketing was in 1977. own right, she says. Research and Information FARM BUREAU .MARKET PLACE SPECIAL RATE TO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS: One free non.commercial 25 word ad per month per memo deadline: 13th of month. Mail classified ads to Michigan Farm News, P.O. Box 30'60, Lansing, MI 48909. Publisher bership, additional words, 10 cents each. Figures such as 12 or 512.50 count as one word. NON-MEMBER and ALL reserves right to reject any advertising copy submi"ed. COMMERCIAL advertisers: 15 cents per word one edition, two or more editions, 10 cents per word. Copy OF INTEREST FARM EQUIPMENT FARM EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK MISCELLANEOUS TO WOMEN NEW ALL WIRE RABBIT CAGES and equip- FOR SALE - 1870 IHC STAKE TRUCK. 11600 REGISTERED YEARLING PALOMINO Gelding FOR SALE • 1974 FORD '/. TON CAMPER ment now available. We can build cages to meet 20" Wheels 4x4 55,000 miles. J. Deere 1115 out 01 Dodger Gold Bar. A nice one. $650.00 Special PIckup. John Deere 12' coil leg Field DELIGHT YOUR LOVED ONES With old- your needs. Dettmers Bunny Patch, Carson City, Chuckwagon; 12 cu. yd. towed LeFourneau. Registered April Filly Palomino $750.00. Clarence Cultivator, 2 Chapparal Snowmobiles and Double lashloned handspun socks. Handspu'l yarn and M148811. 517.584.3765. (5.tf.25b) Scraper - 313-059-0535. Fast, Marshall. Phone 616-781-8493. Trailer. Max Netzley. Phone 517-681-3945. instructions, $7.95 plus sales tax. Margaret (1.1\-231) (11-4t.221) (12.2t.251) Schrepler, 1090 Gulick Road, Haslett, MI 48840. WANTED: New Idea single row cornpicker. Phone 517.523-2803 evenings. Pittslord, (12-4t.2511 INTRODUCTORY OFFER. Subscribe to "THE Michigan. (1-11-111) NEW EDITIONS! PIG FARMERS VALLEY TRIBUNE" weekly Farm Paper, $7.00 STOPI Looking tor some place to throw away LIVESTOCK VETERINARY BOOK, ON.THE.FARM per year, receive FREE Thermometer ($2.00 used cooking oil? Don't throw away oil ever FOR SALE: Stormor grain bins, Farm Fans PREVENTION, SYMPTOMS, TREATMENTS, 180 pages. Diagnosis chart $13.95. THE SOW. value). Featuri'lg Farm news, Farm Auction again. Shortn' Saver Filter completely restores dryers, G.T. Tox-o.wik dryers, Stormor Ezee-dry listings, Farm Machinery advertising. "THE cooking oil to a perlection. Money back systems. Hamilton Distributing Company, IMPROVING HER EFFICIENCY. Covers CORRIEDALE SHEEP: Rams and ewes VALLEY TRIBUNE," 905 S. Henry, Bay City. guarantee! Only $7.95. Shortn' Saver, Box 724, Breeding, Nutri\lon, Farrowing, Management, Hamilton, MI 49419, phone (616) purebreed breeding stock. Papers available. Mic.hlgan 48706. Lebanon, Indiana 46052. etc: 311 pages, 80 illustrations $14.95. PIG 751-5161. (4-11-25b) Craig R. Adams, 14368Jackson Drive, Tekonsha, (12-3t.37p) HOUSING, 220 pages, 32 page "BLUEPRINT" (12.3t-39p) M149092. Phone: 517.767-4250. (8.6t-211) section, HOUSING EQUIPMENT, $13.95 MANURE PUMPS; pump direct Irom lagoon to DELICIOUS ICE.CREAM DRINK RECIPES. lield, Utilize traveler or movable guns. Plummer SPECIAL! Complete above Pig library, 3 hard. AGRICULTURAL TOURS Great lor children and adults: anytime 01the year REGISTERED SHROPSHIRE SHEEP SINCE cover books $38.95 Postpaid. Diamond Farm Supply, Bradley and U.S. 131.Exit, P.O. Box 177, Send $1.00, D. Williams, Box Q4210.DJ2, 1890. Breeding stock lor sale at all times. Book Publishers, Dept. MFN, Box 266. Alexandria Visiting Farms - Ranches - Cities Bradley, Mi 49311. 616-792.2215. Cleveland, Ohio 44104 Hewens Farm, 7400 Bemis Road, Ypsilanti, Bay, NY .13607. (10-II.26b) (12.2t.22p) Michigan 48197. Phone 313-482.2658. (5-tf.221) (11.3t.66p) . AJrica Feb. 16-nfar.8,1980 FARM POWER IN THE MAKING OF India Feb. 24 - nfar. 13, 1980 PECANS: QUART EACH, HALVES, PIECES, AMERICA, and FARM INVENTIONS, two PERFORMANCE TESTED ANGUS, Ouality . FOR SALE: YORKSHIRE • SPOTTED ser. MEAL. Three-quart sampler, $9.75 postpaid' volumes. Covers TRACTORS, STEAM POWER, viceage boars and open gilts top bloodlines Registered Angus Breeding Stock and Club South Pacific nfarch 2-21,1980 Hermitage Farms, Box 143.MF. Hermitage. Tenn THRESHING MACHINES, PLOWS, REAPERS, Calves. Contact Bordner Angus Farms, 68730 tested at MSU test station. All registered stock. County Farm Rd., Sturgis, Michigan 49091. New Zealand, Australia, Tahiti 37076. etc. 264 pages, 400 engravings, photos. Richard Cook, '12mile east Mulliken, M.43. Phone (1-12t.17b) SPECIAl! Both volumes $13.95 Postpaid. Dia. (517) 649-8988. (11.11.251) Phone 616-651.3456. Turkey Sept. 17 - Oct. 6, 1980 (12.tf-241) mond Farm Book Publishers, Dept. MFN, Box Phillipines Nov. 7-21, 1980 WANTED TO BUY): A knitting machine. State 266, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607. DUROC • LANDRACE BOARS. GILTS. Also MILKING SHORTHORNS. Young bulls, year. COndition.price and make. Jane Spencer, Roule (11.3t.43p) crossbred gilts. John Swearingen, 655 Prattville Manila, Hong Kong, Taipei I, Plcklord, Michigan 49774. lings and calves lor sale. Write or visit Stanley M. Road, Pitts lord, MI 49271. Phone (517) Powell and Family, Ingleside Farm. R.R. 2, 3248 For brochure write to: (1.1\.181) NEW EDITION I FARM TRACTORS IN COL. 567-8975. (3.11.191) Powell Hwy., Ionia, Michigan 48846. OUR, 80 YEARS TRACTOR HISTORY, 118 lull AGRIGROUPS ABROAD colour photos, 183 pages, $10.95. STEAM QUARTER HORSES. Disposition lor 4.H, ability ( 12.".281) P.O. Box 461 NURSERY STOCK POWER IN AGRICULTURE, 100 YEARS STEAM lor cattle, conlormation for show. Reasonable STAMP'S DUROCS - Big, sound, aggressive, POWER, 184 pages, 103 lull colour photos prices. Customer satislaction a priority. Visitors conlinement raised serviceage boars. PRV Iree. Coldwater, Michigan 49036 STRAWBERRY PLANTS, Blueberries, Raspber. $10.95. STEAM TRACTIONENGINES, WAGONS, welcome. Walton 'Farms, Rosebush. Phone Guaranteed:Group rates. Phone 616.423-7508. ries, Grapes, Blackberries, Gooseberries, Cur. ROLLERS,180 pages, 158 coloured photos $9.75 517.433.2925. (3-11.241) (1."-161) SURPLUS JEEPS - $19.301 - CARS rants, other IrUit plants and trees. Growers Since SPECIAl! Complete above library 3 hardcover $13.501 - 650,000 ITEMS I - GOVERNMENT 1837. Write lor Iree catalog. DEAN FOSTER books, $27.95 Postpaid. NEW! FARM FEEDER PIGS. Produced and sold by members FOR SALE: AOHA, 3 year old lilly. Sixteen hands. SURPLUS - MOST COMPREHENSIVE DIREC. NURSERIES. Box MFN801 . Hartford, MI 49057 WORKSHOP AND MAINTENANCE, DO.IT. 01 the MACMA Feeder Pig Division. Available Ready to win on the flat. Just started jumping TORY AVAILABLE TELLS HOW, WHERE TO BUY 616-621.2431 YOURSELF Repairing Tractors, Machinery, biweekly in large uniform lots, weighing 40-60 Ibs. training. Willing disposilion and guaranteed '- YOUR AREA - $2 - MONEYBACK sound. $2500.00 lirm. 517.321-3715. (1-3t.28b) Welding, etc. 185 pages, over 400 illustrations, Contact Bill Haas, 517-323.7000, Ext. GUARANTEE - "GOVERNMENT INFORMA. $12.95 hardcover. Diamond Farm Book 707. (4.tf.28b) (1.".251) TlON SERVICES," DEPARTMENT EG.l, BOX Publishers, Dept. MFN, Box 226, Alexandria Bay, 99249, SAN FRANCISCO,CALIFORNIA 94109. REAL ESTATE FOR SALE: Landrace Boars and gilts, also REGULAR ARABIAN STALLION 15h. Grey (1.3t.32p) NY 13607. (11.3t.84p) Duroc Boars and Gilts. George Carpenter lamily, Witez II/Indraff breeding. Book now $250;150. FOR SALE. REGULAR BAY ARABIAN MARE. PEACH FARM. 35 acres in Watervliet Township. 6545 Cogswell Rd., Romulus, MI 48174. Phone FOR SALE. 1,000 gallons 01liquid Molasses 50lt fARROWING STALLS-Gomplete $104.75..1" Ferzon granddaughter. Bay Run Farm, First class site, north slope. Write: Solid M. evenings (313) 721-0240. (9-11.231) a gallon, Phone 517.777.0332.. tubular steel construction. ROUND BALE 616.673-8896. G.K. Harvey, Allegan. (1.3t.121) Spread, Hartford 49057, or phone Solid-M. FEEDERS FOR 1500J Round Bales. Heavy duty (1-1t.251) Chateau (616) 424.3752. $152,000.00 liCENSED, DEPENDABLE, LIVESTOCK 1" square tubing, only $99.95. Rectangular lirm. (4.tf.251) HAULING, to Marlette, Cass City, and Sandusky. WORK SHIRTS AND PANTS, 6/$14.00, leeders also available. Free literature. Dealer. REGISTERED HOLSTEIN BULLS. 15 mos. DAIRY FARMS. 404 acres, double 3 parlor, Call Orvy Jelneck, (313) 395.7296, Capac, Coveralls 3/$21.00, Jackets 2/$9.00, Leather ships available. STARR NATIONAL, 219 Main, Michigan. (5-11.171) Elevation Irom 17,848M at 2 y. Mattson from Gloves 6 pair/$19.00. Catalog $1.00. Call Harvestor Feed System, Conover.Brookston SOil, Colchester, IL 62326. 20,000 , dam. Tested. George Robb, Fowlerville. 203.574.4090. Sara Glove Co., Box 4069-G95, two homes. Also. 401 acres, 112 Iree stall barn, (1.1\.36p) REGISTERED HAMPSHIRE BOARS • GILTS Michigan. 517.223.9462. Waterbury, Conn. 06704. J Smith silos, pipeline milk system, 4 bedroom lor sale. Validated herd. Dale Terry, Palmyra, (1.".211) (1.3t.30b) home $401,000 517.725.5477 Ardelean Realty, FOR SALE 530CK Case trac. Michigan. Phone (517)263.5854. (10.11-151) 1571 N. Hickory, Owosso, Michigan 48867. tor/loader/backhoe, hoe reaches 16,' very good FOR S~LE . An outstanding roan yearling polled WANTED: U.S. SILVER COINS dated 1964 or George Ardelean. Realtor-If you are buymg or condition, gas, cab, 4 speed plus high/low, shut. PUREBRED YORKSHIRE BOARS AND GILTS shorthorn bull. Ray Peters, West Riley Road, earlier. Paying 5 times lace value. Call or write selling, give me a call and let's discuss It. tie, $5950. Nashville. Phone 517.852.9316. for sale. Boars tested in on farm test station. Elsie, MI. Phone 517.862.4852. Frank at Michigan State Really, 5115 N. Smi;h (12.2t.57p) (1-lt.221) Robert Harper, R No.1, Vicksburg, MI 49097. (1-3t.181) Road, Owosso, Michigan 48867, 517.723.2239. I'LL TRADE FOR FARM, TAKE BEST OFFER, Phone (616) 649.2803. (2.12t.221) No amount too large or too small. CONSIDER PARTNER, OR ANYTHING, I'M FOR SALE - International 3 point. 4 section PUREBRED, TRI.COLOR, PROVEN, MALE (1-1!.251.11p) DESPERATE. A.l Garden Center, apartment Rotary hoe. Used less than 100 acres. Phone CORRIEDALE SHEEP • Purebred Breeding ENGLISH SHEPHERD. F. Bradley. Phone buildings. etc. Fabulous income. I became a 616.897-7620 after 6:00 p.m. 517.857.2968, Springport, Michigan. millionaire here. /'11 show you how to make yours stock lor sale. Paper optional. Waldo F.Dieterle, (1-1\.191) 7285 Textile Rd., Saline, Mich. 48176. Phone (1.11.121) PAGE SIZE MAGNIFIER helps reduce eye - property appraised at $300,000.00 but /'11 con. (313)429-7874. (1-11.191) FOR SALE - REGISTERED HALF ARAB BAY strain when reading small print. Waler thin 7xl0" Sider all oilers. Terms. Trades. Bad heart - I FARMERS. CONSERVATIONISTS. CON. MARE. English and Western. Ideal ladies or $2.99. Postpaid E & F Sales. Box 41044, In. must let go. Contact Lambrecht's Nursery Farms, TRACTORS. Make chips 01brush and wood up to children's horse. Lyle Gossett. Riverdale. Phone dianapolis, 46241. Inc.. 1024 Merriman Road, Westland, Michigan PUREBRED YORKSHIRE BOAR AND GILTS. 7" diameter with a 3 pI. power takeoll driven 517.833-7821. (1-".22p) 48185. DetrOit suburbs. 313-728.3644. Top quality breeding stock. Reasonable larm woodchlpper. For tractors Irom 35 to 100 hp (1.1\.201) (12.1\.641) prices. Wallace Hylarides, Shady Lane Farms, Used 3 weeks, new condition, '/2 price. Phone Hudsonville. Phone 616-669-5448. (4. 1Ot.2Op) 74 • CHEVY CUSTOM DELUXE C-65 live MYERHOL TS FARM - 1ae.5 ACRES - Mostly 313.688.3376 Tandem, 427 Gas. 14,000 Front Springs 5 + 4 (1-1t.251.15p) MISCELLAN EOUS tillable, huge 1860s house, solid condition. Land MILKING SHORTHORNS. Young bulls, year. Speed Auxiliary transmission. 39,000 road miles, on both sides Ohio-Michigan line. In Medina Twp., lings and calves tor sale. Write or visit Stanley M. 6 M.PG. Very good condition. 20 ft. flatbed FOR SALE. PATZ GUTTER CLEANER. 175 ft. Michigan, Gorham Twp., Ohio. By owners. Powell and Family, Ingleside Farm. R.R. 2, Box 517-868.4630, 517.823.3706. chain lor 18 inch gutter. Good condition. Phone LAND CLEARING and Bulldozing. By the hour 517'''58-2351 evenings. 238, Ionia, Mich. 48846. (6.11.251) (1-lt.251.5p) 6,6.896.98". or by the job, Tom Tank, Eagle, Michigan 48822. (1.".251) (1.1\.t61) Phone 517-026-6677. (4-II.18b) REGISTERED ANGUS • Yearling Bulls & GROW DELICIOUS VEGETABLES. Try our Heilers, club calves. Write or call Neona Farm, quality SEED. Reliable germination, hardy HAY LISTING WANTED: BULK MILK TANK less than 150 1000 GUNS IN STOCK. Buy. sell, trade. Long Neal Feikema, Evart, Michigan 49631. Phone varieties, savings to 80%. Free hst: Butterbrooke gallons in usable working condition. Also small guns, pistols, black powder, bows. 500 GUNS, (616) 734-2579. (2.11.191) Farm, M-78 Barry Road, Oxford, CT 06483. milk processing and bottling equipment. C. Par. Duane Buckner, 11155 Sherman Blvd., Ravenna, (1.21.24p) ALFALFA HAY, Second Cutting, also first later rish, 7144 Websler Road, Imlay City, 48444. CATTLE BOOKS! VET BOOK FOR STOCK M149451. Phone: 616-853-2527. (12.10t.25p) on. Phone 517.521.3332. 313.724-0858.- FARMERS, On.The.Farm Preven\lon. Symp. (11.5t.l01) WANTED: Gas globes Irom lOp 01old gas pumps: NOWI FARM MEAT CUTTING GUIDEI Get (1.".251) toms, Treatments, 176 pages, 300 photos $ t 2.95. FOR SALE. 6000 bales lirst and second cutting mOdel tractors Irom 195Os,John Deere, Farmall, quality cuts! Both beel. pork! Completely il. CALVING THE COW AND CARE OF THE lustrated! $ 1.00 Hamiltons, Box 652.131, New allalfa hay, mixed together. $1.00. Phone OE.46 OLIVER CRAWLER. Wanted, good or CALF, 164 pages, 338 photos $12.95. PRO. Case, Mini Mo.. AlliS Chalmers. Phone Bernal 313.749.5443 Tolan,517.287.5183 (9.6t.251) Ulm, Minn 56073. repairable condition. Phone 616-377.7105. FITABLE BEEF PRODUCTION, 160 pages ( 1.1!.20p) (1.1!.151) (1-1t.l01) $11.95 SPECIAL' Complete Beel Library, 3 above SHOCK BROTHERS LUMBER COMPANY has FOR SALE. 160 tons alfalfa hay in square bales. hardcovers books $3595 Postpaid New OOltlons hardwood saw dust lor sale $1 50 per yard. pick. First, second. and third cuttings. Phone FOR SALE: 1000 gallon Surge milk tank. Ex. THE FARMERS DOG, best book training work. ed up 26800 Bunert. Warren 48089 616.782.8435 cellent condition. Used just 20 months. For lur- Ing dogs, 162 pages, many Illustrations, hard. 313.777.6201 OF INTEREST (1-1t.161) ther inlormation, call Robert Borton, Lansing, cover. $11.95. Diamond Farm Book Publishers. (10.tf.2Ob) FIRST CUTTING MIXED HAY. Good quality, no 517.321-4117. Dept. MFN. Box 266, Alexandria Bay. NY 13607. TREATED POSTS: 7 ft. $2 10.Call for pick up at TO WOMEN rain. condltloned, 10% discount on 500 bales. _ (1.".211) (11.3t.75p) our sawmill, 2555 JoneSVille St.. lItchflelo, 20% discount on 1000 bales Richard Kus Michigan 49252 517.542.2989 SAUSAGEMAKERS, GREAT! GERMAN Augres. 517.876-8891 or 517.876.8614 FOR SALE: Clay 4.stall herringbone milking OUR 1979 PUREBRED ARABIAN FOALS are ( lHI.19b) RECIPES, NO NITRATESI Franklurters. Sum. (1.3t.251) parlor complete with Boumalic uMs and Chore - ready to go A Synbad granddaughter and a Ral. mer, Bologna, Headcheese. Venison & HAY FOR SALE. 150 tons early cut Timothy and Boy pump. Very good condi\lOn. Mike Borton, f1es bred colt Lannens. File Lake. Mi 49633 RUBBER STAMPS. Three hnes $3.00 Stampco, Porksausagel S1.00, Hamtltons, Box 652.131. Treloll hay. No rain. Wire tie bales. Phone Lansing: 517.323.2822. Phone 616.369.2271 B3001, Dillton, GA 30721. New Ulm. Minn. 56073 906.478.6427 (1.".231) (10.".241) (12.2t.l0p) (1.1!.20p) (1.1!.18t) PAGE 32 FARM NEWS JAN UARY, 1980 ... ' Whatever your age, creation of retirement income A guaranteed retiremen~ income you can't outlive. should b~gin NOW. One way to begin developing You will enjoy financial dignity during your retirement a guaranteed retirement income is with an IRP- years with peace of mind, knowing that you will always Individual Retirement Plan - from Farm Bureau Life. have an income. An IRP offers you these distinct benefits: Prompt, knowledgeable insurance counsel. Agents are A systematic way of accumulating money. You guar- available to work for you at your convenience. An antee that retirement funds will be there when needed annual insurance review service is also available at by setting aside money now. The result is that you your request. Your Farm Bureau Insurance agent will will feel secure about your financial future. analyze your current insurance portfolio and make Tax deferred treatment. Contributions to your IRP are recommendations of how you can best spend or save tax deductible to certain levels. You can earn interest your insurance dollars. in an ~RPwithout immediate tax payment. And when you withdraw IRP funds during retirement you may receive favorable tax treatment. INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT FARM BUREAU PLANS FROM FARM BUREAU LIFE: INSURANCE ANOTHER WAY TO DEPENDABLY GROUR SECURE YOUR FUTURE. FARM BUREAU MUTUAL. FARM BUREAU LIFE • COMMUNITY SERVICE INSURANCE