%Farm News THE ACTION P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H B MICHIG U VOL. 57, NO. 10, OCTOBER, 1978 AUTUMN '78 IN MICHIGAN - Rosy, ripo peaches roady for picking (these beauties development (dates and places on Page 17), and preparation to be a in the orchards of Charles Agio. Manistee County Farm Buroau prosldent), crops knowledgeable voter in the upcoming elections (ballot proposals on Pago 18). harvested and hauled to country elevators throughout tho stato (if MI-OSHA hasn't Autumn - a busy time for farmers, a challenging, opportunity-filled time for Farm forced them out of business - see special feature, pages 8-9), tho opening of tho Bureau members. (Photo by Marcia Dltchie) 1979 membership drive (see story below), county annual moetlngs and policy 6 79 Membership Drive Underway Jackson County in the name of Harold Seifert of Brooklyn. Seifert operates an 1100 acre cash crop farm with his son Mark in southeastern Jackson County. A farmer for 28 years, Seifert shared his thoughts about farm organizations and what he is seeking from his membership "Growing with in Michigan Farm Bureau. Agriculture" will be the "We need someone to work theme for the 1978-79 for the farmer and to keep up Michigan Farm Bureau with the economic times, and membership campaign which we need an organization to officially began on September lead us with a definite 1. During the current cam- program that farmers can paign, MFB will be seeking follow or else we'll be forced its twelth consecutive year of out of the business." membership growth. Michigan Farm Bureau With a goal of 63,094 reported state goal on April members for the 1978-79 13, 1978 for the 1977-78 campaign, the first new campaign with 53 goal Mrs. Arlene Seifert looks on as her husband Harold puts the finishing regular member application counties and will seek to touches on a Farm Buroau member sign on thoir southeastern Jackson received at Farm Bureau better that record during the County farm. Seifert's was tho first now regular member application Center in Lansing was from '79 campaign. received at Farm Buroau Center in Lansing for tho 1978-79 membership campaign. PAGE 2 FARM NEWS OCTOBER, 1978 From the Desk of the President Farmers Must Fight Regulatory Overkill and that great motivator - More and more of the enthusiasts who want public Defense Fund to challenge profit; it was NOT govern- decisions affecting our farms access to farmlands for their government regulatory ment edicts! It is not a are being made by non- activities. agencies. question of whether that farmers, and more control Currently in our state, we small 4 percent of. our over our businesses is held by have government agencies Here in our own state, the population has the ABILITY people who do not even un- threatening our industry on Michigan Agricultural A recent survey, conducted to continue to provide food derstand today's agriculture. many fronts. MI-OSHA has Services Association by FARM FORUM magazine, and fibre for the other 96 We have people sitting in issued unnecessary, (MASA), an affiliate of shows that small family percent, with still enough left offices in Washington, D.C., unrealistic orders for com- Michigan Farm Bureau, farmers believe the greatest over for overseas markets misinterpreting the intent of pliance that could close our established a Legal Services threat to the survival of their and to help feed the hungry of Congress, dreaming up grain elevators and deal a program and a Legal Defense operations is government. the world. Rather, it is a compulsory, rigid, Unrealistic mortal blow to Michigan Fund. Recognizing that all Everyone involved in the question of whether they will regulations for the farm. agriculture. The Highway farmers - not only those who agricultural industry agrees. be ALLOWEDto do so. There Closer to home, we have Department seems deter- hire farm labor - will ex- Consider what made the is nothing that kills a farm- consumers who are mined to gobble up prime perience an increasing need American farmer the most er's incentive to produce - demanding a major say in farmland for its projects. The for legal services and legal efficient, productive and sometimes actually kills agricultural policies, over- DNR battles farmers for defense, MASA has recently businessman in the world... his business - like govern- zealous environmentalists control of agricultural opened its membership to all It was hard work, in- ment regulatory overkill, and who demand that needed~ drainage. A farmer's neigh- Farm Bureau members. ventiveness, the right to that's what is happening to agricultural chemicals Ife bors challenge his right to Their membership in MASA manage his own business, our industry today. banned-, and recreational build migrant housing on his will give them the op- •• • property. The list could go on portunity to ~rticipate in the . and' en... and it will. Legal Services program and To effectively fight this Legal Defense Fund. onslaught of outside forces Our 1978-79Farm Bureau nATionAL that are threatening our industry, Farm Bureau must first have strong policies that address these issues, and membership drive is just getting underway and there are more reasons for farmers to join our organization than PI RSPICTIYI ALLAN GRANT. PRESIDENT AMERICAN FARM BUREAU FEDERATION then find the most effective ways to carry out the policies. When Farm Bureau speaks, it is the voice of the American farmer. Our major ever before. When you are contacting other farmers to tell them about the benefits of joining together through Farm Bureau, be sure to challenge is to make sure that remind them that with Congress, the Executive federal and state government Branch, the Judiciary, and agencies assuming a more the general public listen to dominant role in the lives of Political Awareness that voice -- and react favorably to it. Faced with the proportion all citizens, farmers must be organized and prepared to challenge unreasonable, discriminatory regulations. of farmers. to the national An increased political awareness is one million - .plus - voters if we work at it. population and with the We have learned through of the positive signals coming from the Registration of every Farm Bureau current challenges, farmers experience that farmers country. member is the key. Informing and and other concerned citizens cannot rely on the promises of This awareness is of critical importance _ registering nonfarm people who support are concentrating more of any governmental agency or in this year when 35 U.S. senators, 435 our policies is another. their efforts on the Judiciary political party. If the law is members of the U.S. House of Represen- Getting out the right kind of vote in every branch than they have in the subject to an interpretation tatives and 36 governors-are to be elected. election, but particularly in the general past. The American Farm which may adversely affect To this add state and local races, bond elections on November 7, is the political Bureau Federation has set up the rights and interests of and school issues and a growing number of payoff. a Legal Fund for litigation farmers, then we must state referendums. Farm and ranch people have become purposes; the U.S. Chamber challenge it. With united "sensitized" into a higher degree of of Commerce has established strength, there will be no Politicians everywhere are showing new political awareness by recent actions of.the a - National Chamber regula tory agency, no concern about voter reaction and increased government. Litigation Center; there's an bureaucracy too big or too unease over signs of a trend toward fiscal For example, there is a positive side to organization in Washington, powerful for us to challenge. and regulatory conservatism. President Carter's illustrated decision to D.C. now called the Food Elton R. Smith The spend and spend, regulate and open our borders to more meat imports for regulate tide has turned and the wise the stated purpose of driving down con- politician does well to recognize that fact. sumer meat prices. Farm and ranch people have been That action helped unite livestock leaders in helping turn this tide. Farm producers more than has been true since Bureau members everywhere have in- President Nixon foolishly ordered a meat- sisted that Congress and the Executive price freeze. Branch accept full responsibility for the The size of the permitted increase in growing federal deficit and the resulting meat imports itself - a modest 200-million erosion of the dollar's value. pounds - was relatively unimportant In the November election we have our compared to the psychological effects of a best chance to re-emphasize the im- President of the United States publicily portance of such policies by supporting or endorsing a cheap food policy - at the opposing those who seek to represent us. farmers' expense. There are few things politicians un- Attacking food prices, specifically beef, derstand as well as voter reaction. If they as the "cause" of inflation signals the are convinced that a significant num~r of Administration's intention to continue voters "mean business" in insisting that present inflationary deficit spending. Congress operate on a balanced budget, Here is a political action guide to use that state and county rights are to be between now and November: emphasized and that individual freedom Register to vote. and opportunity must not be sacrificied in a . Be active in the political party of your quest for guaranteed "security" - they will act accordingly. And - they listen to farmers, for farmers choice. Study issue positions of all can- didates. Support candidates whose ~"'A"-- philosophies are consistent with Farm have been, and continue to be, very ef- Bureau policies. "Here's a farmer requesting fective politically. Contribute financially. Write letters and Farm numbers aren't that small. Farm otherwise participate in candidate support. MORE forms. He uses Bureau's three million member-families Motivate others to become involved. "Can intetpret into something like nine Vote on Election Day. them to mulch his tomatoes." OCTOBE R, 1978 FARM NEWS PAGE 3 BC-BS Subscribers Discover: Farm Bureau People Care The repercussions of the BC-BS complementary medical coverage, sub- Blue Cross-Blue Shield subscribers who were billed scribers can actually see that subscribers' rate increase $73.05 for the first quarter their health care premium is notification had not yet coverage compared to the often returned to them many subsided when Harold 1977-78 quarterly contract times over in health care Scharp, manager, Member rate of $41.55. "I'm thankful services:" Services, Michigan Farm that the BC-BS error has been As an example, the Clinton Bureau, requested additional discovered and is being County secretary related a information relative to the remedied, " says Marilyn recent subscriber contact. "A rate hike for Farm Bureau Knight. "I could really retired gentleman. came in members. Because of that sympathize with those older for some claim assistance," inquiry, inaccurate statistics people living on fixed in- says Marilyn. "He brought all used to set the 1978-79 health comes. They watch every the related hospital and coverage rate were dime. I'm sure they are medical billings and the Ingham County FB secretary Jean Scutt (cent.r), and MFIJ discovered by Blue Cross relieved by the adjustment in hospital billing alone was Blue Cross specialists reri Elkins (left) and Barbara Slclc/es an~lysts. Cooperative steps the 1978-79 contract $4300 for a IO-day inpatient (rlgh') shared the belle' that they helped turn a negative have been taken to adjust the premium." stay. A lot of the charges situation Into a positive one by making subscribers more oware inflated rates and to refund to Nevertheless, a special sign were for thera py, but a of ,h"e/r benellts. Farm Bureau subscribers up -period was opened for tremendous amount was for excess dollars paid in the Farm Bureau members who service at the local county Bureau member Health Care laboratory work. The room August quarterly billing. wished to transfer to the Farm Bureau offices and at Study Committee, which rate was $120 a day. And this reported the results of their Subsequent billings econo-plan coverage. is the key when you talk about Farm Bureau Center also throughout the balance of the According to Virginia Almy, provide Farm Bureau group evaluation to the membership health care coverage from in August of last year. Other contract year will be in line supervisor, Member Re- Blue Cross: 95 percent of the health subscribers with ac- with corrected experience cords, the chief differences cess to knowledgeable health insurance carriers Blue Cross - Blue Shield were contacted by the state ratings for the Farm Bureau in comprehensive and assistance regarding billing premiums are returned to and services under any of the study committee. In many members participating in the Medicare complementary subscribers in health care Be.BS comprehensive and coverage compared to the health care options available cases, these alternate services. That's easy to through the Farm Bureau carriers were unable or un- complementary coverage~ econo-plan are that there is forget because we walk into Econo-plan subscriber rates no master medical. or group. willing to service the Farm the hospital, receive the Bureau members with group -are entirely separate and prescription drug service services and seldom see the were properly established by coverage available to econo- The total health insurance rates and health care ser- bill, so we never give it package available .through vices that were comparable actuarial ratings- at a new, plan subscribers. another thought." lower premium. "I don't discourage Blue Cross - Blue Shield was to the Blue Cross-Blue Shield In addition, subscriber examined in 1977 by a Farm options available. The member reaction to the members who want to July rate notification was transfer to the econo-plan immediate 0" and un- because for many of them it derstandably emotional. would be practical, but I'm Clinton County secretary, careful to describe the Marilyn Knight, recalls that benefits available to them "the phone calls began the under the comprehensive or day the notice hit the mail. Medicare complementary Many members had already coverage," explains Marilyn. contacted Blue Cross district She found in contacts with offices and did not get the Farm Bureau group sub- answers they needed, so they scribers that "so many don't turned to us." Ingham County realize they have the m.aster members re, decision back in the publicly at (317)457-3211. one of the sponsors of the more accountable level of the House bills' expressed con- HEW secretary. Assistant Manager Position Available in Michigan Cattle export company needs Asst. Manager for international operation, must have marketing experience. Should have good knowledge of. dairy cattle and trade and be willing to travel. ...... x. STeel .... HTIIIII Living quarters available. Salary depending on experience with • 1111South Main Street. Kokomo, IN 46901 a future share in company. Send Resume to Michele Kanaziz, Secretary, P.O. Box 213, Lapeer, Michigan 48446. PAGE 8 FARM NEWS OCTOBER, 1978 A Day in the Life "Things don't just happen-- of a Regional Representative They're MADE to happen!" Hugo Kivi Story by Donna Wilber that the U.P. is no different Photos by Marcia Ditchie than any other region in What motivates busy farmers to travel 100miles to attend a terms of regional county Farm Bureau board meeting? How does a county representative responsibil- Farm Bureau in a sparsely-populated area manage to attract ities, the large area he 600 people to a rural-urban event or a commodity promotion? covers does pose some Or' stay near the top of the list on member-to-member frult special challenges. sales and participation in Safemark and Services' programs in' "I love my 'job! My only spite of small membership?, complaint about Farm Upper Peninsula Regional Representative Hugo Kivi Bureau is that they don't proudly points to his volunteer leadership and says: "These make their datebooks big are the people who make things go." And those people who enough," he said as he "make things go" point back at Hugo and proclaim that his reviewed a typical busy efforts, enthusiasm and dedication have played a vital role in month ahead. The U.P. is as Hugo and Hlawathaland Farm Bureau president Wallace enabling U.P. Farm Bureau-members to boast: "Everything wide as the lower peninsula is LaTullp study the graph that shows the continual growth of we tackle is successful." high, one-third of Michigan's Farm Bureau In the Upper Peninsula over the years. Both are It's not an idle boast; each have to know the people and land area, and much like a confident that the coming year will be no exception. year, U.P. county Farm their needs." tra veling preacher in days of Bureaus haul a good share of He encourages the county yore, he tries to plan his work program achievement Farm Bureaus to evaluate on a circuit basis. This means awards from the state annual their past programs to see if frequent nights away from meeting back across the they are meeting the needs of home. He pays tribute to his Mackinaw Bridge to "God's members and agriculture, wife, Adele, for her support Country." Distance, time, and to determine what their and understanding and small membership program priorities should be' throughout the years, for numbers do not deter these based on current needs. "raising two kids almost dedicated Farm Bureau With the recognition that single handed," and sums up leaders from their self- they can work together his feelings with the appointed tasks; they have no ~hrough their organization to statement: "There are no two need for such "excuses." solve their unique problems Adeles in this world!" "Things don't just happen- also comes the willingness to Hugo has several titles they're MADE to happen," invest time and effort - and in other than MFB Regional says Hugo. the U.P., this often means Representative. He's been Mackinaw-Luce has, what traveling long distances to referred to as "A Legend" in Hugo talks with Menominee County President Harry Melntz Hugo is sure is "the best attend a meeting or par- Farm Bureau circles for the and son Charlie about the possibility of a special hay program Local Affairs program in the ticipate in an activity. unparalled membership and with two pelletizing plants located In the U.P. Cooperative state." In Chippewa, nearly "If you have a meeting just program growth the U.P. has Extension Service Is working closely with Farm Bureau leaders every member belongs to a for the sake of having a enjoyed during his long term to study the feasibility of such a program. Community Group, giving meeting, you won't have of service. He's called "The them an effective com- attendance," Hugo explains. Dean" by some of his fellow munications channel that led "There has to be a reason for regional reps because he has to the coveted title of Top having one other than it's the served as their teacher- County Farm Bureau in the second Tuesday of the month. advisor-counselor. He's state. Copper Country sets But give them an activity known to many as "Mr. U.P. the pace in public relations they believe is important, an State Fair" because of his and promotion of local farm issue to work on that's of dedicated service to that products. Menominee's concern to them - and they'll event. There's also "Kiwi outstanding Women's be there, regardless of Bird" to identify him to o,ther program provides farm distance." CB'ers on the road, and "The women with opportunities for Working with farmers is a Stone" which remains an leadership development. "natural" for Hugo. Born and "inside" U.P. term of en- Hiawathaland makes it raised on a small dairy farm dearment from the members happen through policy in the U.P. where his grand- he serves. development and policy parents and parents settled When asked what has been execution. Iron Range is after coming to America most rewarding about his making plans for a big from Finland, he later long career, Hugo does not commodity promotion when worked as a DHIA supervisor hesitate a moment before the Crystal Falls mall is for 17 years and as market replying: "Seeing the long..flme U.P. Farm Bureau leader MIllie Corey was bu.yon completed. representative for the development of individuals a 4-Hpro/ed when Hugo and MFNeditors Interrupted he",for a According to Hugo, there Michigan Milk Producers when Farm Bureau gives short visit on her pleasant .undeck overlooking MIllie " are several reasons for the Association. His service to them the opportunity to grow, flourishing garden successes of county Farm Farm Bureau Degan in 1957 and a few years later, they're Bureaus in the U.P. Most when he was hired as the first in a leadership position. It's important is that U.P. regional representative for the greatest reward anyone in members look at their the Upper Peninsula. this type of work could organization as a tool to solve Although Hugo maintains possibly have!" their' own particular problems. Participation in , Community Groups is high and Community Groups are active in the organization's policy development-policy execution process. Their telephone grid system is well- organized and effective because members have learned that "it works!" The large area and the great distances between Hugo check"'gnals - with Hattie lockhart, Chippewa County Farm Bureau secrefary and 'nlormotlon chairman. HU80 credits county units mean that Hugo and the U.P. members must set program priorities. "It takes time to create interest Macklnaw-luce Farm Bureau pre.,dent Fred Persh'ftske, who much of Otlppewa'ssucce .. e. (Top County Form lureauln the and activity," Hugo explains, along with Arthur (1111) Edward., was 'nstrumental In state) to fhe lad fhot most of 't. members be'ong fo Com- "and a program that goes orvanlzlng Farm lureau In tlte U.I' .. remembers HUfIO wlten he munity channel. Groups, pI'Oftdlttg an effective eommunlcoffott. over big below the bridge may not be needed here. You was fu.st a rookie Oft "'.lGh. pond when h•• hus, ",,"u'e Fred loan. HUfIO Itl.lxxlcrard fro'" 01..... OCTOB E R, 1978 FARM NEWS PAGE 9 MFB Member "These are the people who make things- g~ in the U.P." Hugo Kivi The contest has two divisions, according to the age of the ADA's Magic Cow helped Roy and Janis Butkovich greet the nearly 600 people who gathered at photographer. There is a Junior Division (18 and under) their farm for a buHalo barbecue following a tour of area farms. The Rural-Urban Family Day has" and a Senior Division (19 and above). become a regular pro/ecf of the Macklnaw-Luce Farm Bureau Women's Committee to let non- PRIZES AS FOLLOWS: farmers know how their food Is produced. (Photo cour:tesy of Michigan Milk Messenger.) 1st Prize - Each Division $50.00 2nd Prize - Each Division $35.00 3rd Prize -- Each Division $25.00 Special Merit Awards $10.00 OFFICIAL RULES 1. The contest is open to all amateur photographers who are members of Michigan Farm Bureau (a person earning any income from photography is ineligible). 2. Employees of Michigan Farm Bureau and its affiliated companies are ineligible. 3. The contest is composed of two divisions: a) Junior Contest -- for those 18years old and under and b) Senior Contest -- for those 19 and above, as of December 1, -- 1978. Outgoing Menominee County Women's Chairman Paul 4. The contest is for prints only. Prints may be in color or Melntz congratulates newly-elected oH/cers: Mary Doboy, black and white. They must be 5x7 inch prints or chairman; Cecile Veesar, vice-chairman, and Dorothy Theuerkaul, secretary. Despite the long distances and a split larger, and need not be mounted. - time zone ("7:30 our time -- 8:30 your time"), 40 women were .5. Photographs should depict aspects of rural life or Richard G. Bucksar, present lor the September Women's meeting. agriculture in Michigan. I Hlawathaland Farm Bureau 6. Photographs will be judged on treatment of Subject member, recently rec~;ved the matter, visual effectiveness, and technical ability. AMVETS (American Veterans of 7. 1st, 2nd and 3rd Prizes in each division will be deter- World War II, Korea and Viet mined by a panel of professionals outside of Michigan Nam) highest honor, the "SlIver Farm Bureau. The decisions of the judges are final. Helmet Award," In the Only one prize will be given to each entrant. Awards Americanism category. Bucksar, will be presented at the Michigan Farm Bureau An- a former farmer In Wayne nual Meeting in Grand Rapids. County and currently a teacher 8. Special Merit Awards will be supplementary to the at Bay de Noc Community awards given in each division. Winning photographs in College In Escanaba, has been a this category will be selected by the Information and Farm Bureau member since Public Relations Division of Michigan Farm Bureau. 1947. \..- 9. All prize or award winning photographs become the "'\ I property of Michigan Farm Bureau. Whenever ~,~ A published, proper credit will be given to the photographer. 10. Photographs not winning prizes or awards will be ~ .. ~ returned to entrants provided a self-addressed stamped envelope accompanies the entry. Care will be ~-wa- taken in handling photographs, however, Michigan Farm Bureau is not responsible for loss or damage to photographs. Ann Jousmo. Farm Bureau Women's lead.r 11. A model release form+ must be available for any from Bruce Crossing In Ontonagon County. identifiable person in a photograph. appeared on tel.vlslon rec.ntly, talking about 12. Each photograph must bear the name, address, date farming In the Upper P.nlnsula with Carl of birth of entrant and where the photograph was Pellonpaa. host of Suomi Kufsuu. Upper taken. Michigan Today. on WLUC-TV In Marquette. 13. Entries must be received no later than November 1, 1978. 14. Mail entries to: Michigan Farm News Photography Contest Jason Kronemeyer. son of Chippewa County P.O. Box 30960 president John Kronemeyer, shows th.'r prize- Lansing, Michigan 48909 winning calf to an admiring Hugo whose yeoars 15. Contest is subject to all local, state and federal as Dairy superintendent as the U.P. State fair regula lions. mean he recognizes a winner when h. sees It. Jason's mother, Julie. who serves on the Slate Women's Committee, was giving the Chippewa + A limited supply of model release forms is available County Women's Committe. a tour 01 th.lr from the Michigan Farm Bureau Information and m,odern dairy olfJeratlon when MFN edlto~s pa/~ Public Relations Division. '''e1r v1 sit .. PAGE 10 FARM NEWS OCTOBER, 1978 MI-OSHA Tackles Mich By Connie Lawson, Marcia Ditchie, 66 Mike Rogers, Donna Wilber We Care Ah Elevators are Target in Latest Round In August, Bob Newman, manager, Caledonia Farm Pi u Bureau Cooperative, learned di The characters are the same: Michigan agriculture and MI- quantities which might 2, we wouldn't have to com- le OSHA. that the motors and electrical produce explosive or ply with some of these wiring in the Caledonia seed f? The plot is almost identical: Michigan agriculture pleads ignitable mixtures. Division 2 stringent restrictions. Most of with MI-OSHA to be a "partner in safety," reasonable in their are locations where these our existing equipment, and regulations, and shift its focus from enforcement to education. conditions do not normally some with minor updating, MI-OSHA responds with the edict: You shall comply or else! exist. "If we could get our plants classified as Division would be acceptable," he said. Elevator Oj In a previous act of this percent of them out of continuing series on "MI- business. OSHA vs. Michigan MI-OSHA's main target is Threaten t Agriculture," back in the fall the elevators' electric motors MI-OSHA: "We Seldom Lose" Elevator operators across t of 1976, the battle was over which the regulatory agency threatening to go on strike to proposed rollover protection says must be dust-ignition Elevators which have judge rules in favor of MI- problems with MI-OSHA elect* and machinery guarding proof and bear an Under- received citations are now in OSHA, the elevator can't get anyone to listen to ou standards which went far writers Laboratories' label in the appeals process. The operators' cases will move the height of the harvest seaso; beyond the federal order to be in compliance. It's Grain and Agri-Dealers into the courts. elevators," says Dale Ackley, n regulations. Michigan that little label that MI-OSHA Association and Farm Both groups say they will agriculture won that round. inspectors are looking for - Elevator Exchange terminal in Bureau Services are fight the issue "all the way up the farmers would be up in arms The next act came in the and if they don't find it, the currently involved in pre- the line" and both are hopeful summer of 1977 when MI- elevator operator is slapped get the news media's attention hearing informal conferences that Michigan agriculture OSHA tried to apply 10 with a citation. with MI-OSHA in an attempt will come out the victor. But Stan Sherman, executive view general industry standards to Most of the State's modern- to resolve, compromise or as one MI-OSHA official said: and Agri-Dealers Association, aj agriculture and set a day plants are equipped with agree on a solution to the "We very seldom lose an some method to gain recognii, precedent for costly retrofit. totally - enclosed, fan-cooled problem. If this procedure appeal. If we do, we'll simply think the truth has got to get out Once again, agriculture motors (TEFCS) and even fails, the next step is a start all over again, making be one way of getting attention proved its point and even though they may be hearing before an ad- inspections and giving Sherman believes that aim gained representation on the "proper," if they don't have ministrative law judge. If the citations." elevators will participate in the s MI-OSHA Commission. that label, they are not be a short term action "to mai considered in compliance by The current scene has MI- MI-OSHA. The state's major 66 99 Er OSHA zeroing in on insurance carrier for the M i c h i g a n ' s e l e v a t o r s , industry, Michigan Millers, They Don't Care If It's Safe - demanding changes in their which insures 450 elevators in electrical systems - the the state, approves the TEFC financial burden of which, motors because their records manager Brewer felt were are grain industry experts say, indicate they have never been "reasonable and we complied Bre would put as many as 60 the cause of an elevator fire. with and met the for requirements and abated on entc these." Then, two weeks Grain & Agri-Dealers Lead Fight later, MI-OSHA inspectors hav came back again, and at that ano The Michigan Grain and the grain storage and drying Agri-Dealers Association has back to the farm because time, cited the Pinconning cou] been leading the fight on this there would be no place to plant with nearly 100 more thin issue, meeting with MI-OSHA take the grain. Then MI- citations. busl officials, state legislators, OSHA will go to the farm with Discussing these 100 new and OSHA officials in their inspections and in- citations, Brewer stated, "If assi Washington, DC. and finally dividual farmers will be we met compliance with all that we were cited for, it son?1 with CASPA ~ Complaints faced with the harrassment don Against State Program and citations," he said. would probably run in the neighborhood of $100,000 to whe Administration - to try to solve the problem. Executive Vice President Stan Sherman is concerned, Sherman stressed that Association members are not against safety. "We con- tinually hold seminars on $150,000." According to Brewer, the Pinconning plant has been cited mostly for r not only about the electrical "deficiencies," - safety, housekeeping and motors, because they weren't devastating economic impact pollution control; that's one the closing of 60 percent of labeled properly, conduits of the purposes of our and lighting. "They don't Michigan's elevators would association," he explained. have on farmers, but also care whether it's safe or not "If MI-OSHA would just safe, it depends on the label what he predicts would be MI- accept the fact that industry OSHA's next step if that that's on the motor and that's is trying just as hard as they all they go by." would occur. "If these are to provide a safe working elevators are forced to close, environment, it would be "This elevator, along with this will immediately force wonderful!" the other elevators which are are in the same situation we 17 FBS Plants Cited to Date Three-leg motors on tho outside of the Pinconning are, would have to shut down plant wore cited as not bolng dust-proof or totally- to make the changes MI- Working closely with the Association's concern for OSHA is demanding," Michigan Grain and Agri- enc/osed, plpm ventilated motors. employee safety. "The lives, Brewer said. "It would be a Dealers Association has been health and well-being of severe blow to the agriculture John (Jack) Barron, Farm employees are our main "I think it's going to have a their existence should the in this area and to our em- Bureau Services' Insurance concern, and if we thought severe impact and I believe tactics of MI-OSHA go un- ployees who work here. I'm and Safety Services what MI-OSHA was asking that everybody that's con- checked. sure some elevators have manager. To date, 17 Farm was necessary to their well- cerned with the existence of Built in 1968, the Pin- already closed rather than to Bureau Services and being, we would be 100 per- agriculture has to lend a conning plant met all state make the investments management contract plants cent in favor of it." hand. We need a unified effort and federal safety and necessary to comply with the have been cited by MI-OSHA to get the job done," reflected electrical codes that were in citations or go through the and Barron predicts there Barron explains that MI- Edsel Brewer, manager of existence at the time. battle of seeing whether they will be more "because sooner OSHA's interpretation of how the Farm Bureau Services' However, within a two week could appeal them. Even- or later, every elevator in the facilities should be classified Pinconning plant on the period last April, MI-OSHA tually, this would eliminate state will he inspected - more is a major problem. Division current barrage of MI-OSHA inspectors visited the plant elevator service in a lot of likely sooner than later." 1 areas are the most hazar- citations being leveled twice. The first time, the areas in the state." Barron echoed the Grain dous, where dust is or may be against country elevators in plant was cited for seven Most of the citations leveled and Agri-Dealers in suspension in the air in Michigan, and the future of citations which plant against the Pinconning plant OCTOBER, 1978 PAGE 11 gan Agriculture--Again Ut Our Employees"— Bob Newman, Caledonia iid not conform to MI- from division 2 to division 1. alternative, he says, was 'standards for Class II, Bob will not soon forget this nearly as costly . as in 1 elevators. He also first lesson in dealng with the replacement in terms of d that the Caledonia new MI-OSHA elevator down-time and shipping f has been re-classified standards because that on- costs. "And so we're right site inspection resulted in five back where we started," he citations on the relatively concluded. new motors installed in the The economic impact of the seed plant. new standard is already All of the motors are totally being felt in the West - enclosed, fan cooled (TEFC) Michigan community. motors which would have Planned expansion of farmer Hate are seriously been in conformance with the services will be delayed until jnatize their recent new division standard if they the regulatory issue is were certified by Under- resolved and some services The National Electric Code (NEC) is updated annually inspections. "If we and changes are published in the NEC handbook. "This )blems, then during writers Laboratories and have been curtailed or bore the UL label The deleted. In the past, the one is for '78," says Bob, "but it's probably been out of Kv ill close down the date for months with all the changes they keep making." i e r of the Michigan elevator .had planned and Caledonia elevator has jaukee. "Of course, implemented motor cleaned clover seed for a few he believes. "A neighboring from this MI-OSHA I'm sure that would replacement in accordance area farmers. "We never elevator closed this summer pressure". There are only k away." with division 2 standards made anything on it, but it and small elevators in about 500 elevators which do not require the UL was a farmer service. This Hastings and Lowell have operations in Michigan and kdent of the Grain year, though, it was evident 1 "We've got to use label denoting certification. shut down this year and I'm Sherman admits "that's not To replace the 2-year-old that the motor had to be pretty sure that decision r the problem. We replaced. I just couldn't enough clout to fight this $iow, and this may motors and to make other hinged on the extra cost of battle to save the country rennovations required for justify the expenditure maintaining MI-OSHA necessary for the regulation elevators." iSall of Michigan's compliance with MI-OSHA standards," he says. Newman would like to see division 1 regulations would motor, so we had to stop the The Caledonia elevator has jbut says that it will service," reports Bob. the Class II, division 1 If! point." total nearly $73,000. "The appealed the citations and the designation rescinded and to current value of the entire Caledonia's elevator serve Class II, division 1 have the elevator reclassified Caledonia facility, including 1100 accounts in a 15 mile designation to the Michigan division 2. "I just think when Brewer, the retail store is about $600,000," said Newman, radius. "We're not con- sidered a big operation. We Department of Labor. "We're going to continue to appeal these changes were made no one really took a hard look at Conning "and $73,000 worth of changes to meet the standard will not move about 400,000 to 500,000 bushels of grains through these citations," insists Newman, "because I feel the fire experience of the country elevators. Now, you make it any more valuable as each year and we make a fair once they come in and write take a country elevator with a fcg appealed, but far as performance and profit - enough so we can up the motors, it will always frame structure, with the Expressed concern definitely not in the consider modest expansion be something else and they doors and windows on all furvival of private marketplace." under normal cir- won't quit until we're out of sides, you have the least Newman believes in the cumstances," he says. But business". chance of an explosion i in Michigan. "I the re-classification has The cooperative's board of assurance that in safety of the existing TEFC because there is no com- motors and contacted the altered those circumstances directors has given full pression of the dust. Fires, couple years we manufacturer to learn what and though the Caledonia support to the appeal action elevator will continue to too, can be avoided by o through this whole steps were necessary to and has agreed to write demanding good work n. I don't think any certify the motors with the operate, Newman sees litjtle letters or whatever is practices and maintaining :an keep doing this UL label. He found that on- hope for some smaller necessary to get Mi-OSHA to country elevators. "Some will ease off, Bob says. "We really clean work areas." \t without some site certification is ruled out The Caledonia Co-op and that the unit must be just have to close their doors, need the attention and sup- that when you do they can't financially meet port of farmers throughout elevator employees pride shipped to the factory where themselves on good I, in ten years they it is tested and certified. That these MI-OSHA standards," Michigan to get some relief pire you to do the housekeeping practices. Work areas are clean and pg over again." relatively free of dust ac- cumulation even at peak "It's Not Just the Little Guys . . .*?•.« Dale Ackley, Zilwaukee processing times. Employees are involved in surfacing, not just the little guys exposed to the atmosphere. cost of the motors would have new code. We're going to planning and implementing ^re getting sand kicked Those citations and a number to be passed on to the farmer have a meeting of the minds safety programs on a year- heir faces in the of similar ones were dropped and consumer." between the Grain and Agri- round basis. The safety atory sandbox. The after an appeal, but the plant What's the solution? "Our dealers Association and training is coordinated with gan Elevator Exchange is still appealing the citations plant was built according to MI-OSHA to point out what the Farm Bureau Services ukee terminal has a two on totally - enclosed fan the code at that time," says we think some of the Safety Department. ^n bushel capacity and cooled (TEFC) motors. "I Ackley. "We feel that the problems are. But I think if "We all have an investment speed handling equip- think we can win the appeal facilities which met the code they enforce the code at some in this elevator," says Bob to make it one of the on this too," says Ackley, a the time they were built of the older plants, those Newman. "Whether it's important grain and "because according to in- should be left as is. Only new plants will have to close their management, jobs or farmer facilities in the state. surance records these motors construction should meet the doors and go out of business." services, the entire com- It, too, has received a have not caused any fires or munity benefits. We don't explosions in elevators. I want our elevator to burn ^ r of citations this year don't know why MI-OSHA has down and if we thought this MI-OSHA. such a hangup about elec- equipment would endanger think some of the in- trical equipment." our employees or our >rs didn't know what to If, for some reason, the elevator, we would definitely j en it came to inspecting terminal is forced to replace make these changes MI- jvator and determining the TEFC motors, Ackley OSHA is asking for. At a ier or not it met the says they will have no choice country elevator, our em- ical code," says Dale but to spend the necessary ployees are neighbors too. ;y, manager of the money "since we have so They are part of the com- rial. "As a result, to much invested in the facility munity and we feel we are ct themselves from already." But, he adds "it responsible enough and care ig anything, they wrote would be a very expensive enough that we want to prything connected with venture, and it would hurt our protect our employees and levator." These motors at the MEE terminal In Zilwaukee farmer customers because our elevator. Everyone here ^t "everything" in- were cited by MI-OSHA as being unsafe, even the money has to come from though the motors are outside the elevator and is working as a group to i outside motors and somewhere. In the end the maintain a safe work en- equipment completely totally exposed to the atmosphere. vironment." PAGE 12 FARM NEWS OCTOBE R, 1978 Gagetown FBS Bran~h FBS~ FPC I.,vestors Boasts New Facilities Get Million Dollars Farm Bureau Services, Gagetown, has lust completed operated from a control panel In the oHlce as a robot command raw material tower sets upon a mixer and electronic scale in Interest, Dividends construction on a new fertilizer system. system." blend plant, according to Duane Paul Burdon, Manager of the Shown here Is the stacking Over 12,000investors and Executive Vice President of Cohoon, Vice President, Retail Gagetown facility, explained "A and final assembly of the stockholders recently were both -Farm Bureau Services, Division, farm Bureau Services, farmer can come In, order his prefabricated tower structure. recipients of $1,134,467,which Inc. and Farmers Petroleum Inc. The new facility can load a special fertilizer, and have four The crane and crew were able to represents Farm Bureau Cooperative, Inc., "and we twenty-five ton sem/.traller In tons loaded In his truck In three complete the assembly In a Services, Inc. and Farmers are grateful to all stock and just 20 minutes. It Is completely minutes. A huge ninety • ton maHer of a few days. Petroleum Cooperative, Inc. debenture holders for their annual payment of interest on confidence and sUPlX?rt." debentures and dividends on dividend bearing stock. Farm Bureau Services, Inc. and Farmers Petroleum Of this total amount, Cooperative, Inc. are both $225,959was paid to Farmers Michigan Farm Bureau af- Petroleum Cooperative, Inc. filiates. Farm Bureau Ser- stock and debenture holders vices, Inc. is a major supplier and over $908,507was mailed of farm supplies and a world to Farm Bureau Services wide marketer of Michigan stock and debenture holders. grown grain and beans. "We are pleased to make J:armers Petroleum these annual payments," Cooperative, Inc. is the stated Donald R. Armstrong, largest farmer-owned - cooperative and distributor of farm petroleum supplies in How-to Book Michigan. Available for Slllall Farlllers , "Successful Small Farms - Building Plans and Methods" is a comprehensive reference Remarkable Book source for the small farmer Spells Out How To who needs to add or repair PLAN, BUILD & buildings, and wants to do it REPAIR IT YOURSELF cheaply but not at the ex- pense of his livestock or SUCCESSFUL prod,uc tion opera tion. Planning and building details SMALL FARMS Paul Burdon, Manager, farm Bureau Services, Inc., Gagetown, explains the robot console, part of for many types of storage Building plans and the new fertilizer facilities lust Installed. He says, "This system Is easy to operate. By lust pushing facilities and livestock Methods these panel buHons I can punch out the particular fertilizer mixture ordered and have It dumped housing are given, with tips to by Ilcrher' T. tea \y into a fertilizer spreader or tt'uck, ready to be applied to the field. A fast unloading system from make the construction as 1!12'pagl's. O\l'r .lOO illustratiolls railcars at the rear of our facilities piles the fertilizer Into our storage bins. ,,'s mixed In our new, and ch ....b.llIdl •.\. 1'-1/2 \ II efficient and safe as possible. doth, S14.00 giant hopper and dropped and weighed Into the waiting vehicles. Fertilizer Is untouched by human hands and loads are accomplished In a few minutes." Emphasis is on projects paperhound. 5.95 that can be built either • 1I0\\' to plan. GlJIlstrl/ct, acld to or partially or totally by' the ""/Jair huildings at tlw lcJ\\t!st po:;- farmer. Recommendations sil1lc cost. hut without disl"llpting li\'l~stock 01' farm product ion. on how and when to use a • /)o-it-\'ol/rst!/(lJasics of f.l/"mstl'ad contractor are also given. lavOl;t. livl'~\ock housinl-\, e'n- The projects selected are \'i ~'on me n t,t! con Iro Is. s Iol'age directed not to the large needs. huilding pn~sel"\ali6n and commercial farmer, but to maintenal\('l' huilding l1Iatt~rials. caulking, painting. _mon~. those who farm to sup- • Pointcrs lor when to call in a clln- plement other income or tractor and how to he sUn~ you who are engaged in full-time make Ihl' lighl dlOin' farming on a small scale. Why pa~' out good mone~' need- lessly in toda~"s in'''ated market? You can makl' YOllI' farm morl' efficient. produClht'. profilahll' hy - Jim D~Ni"..o wo"" ,ou' nom_ lor his moiling I'" following alternativc slrall'gil~s 1'.\- plainI'd in this uniqlll' hook-.Illd ,II ~ do-;t -yollrse(r S