THElEGISLATIVECOMMITTEE-of the Michigan Farm Bureau, they are aided by legislative specialists invited to consult checks proposed legislation against current Farm Bureau pol- with them. Meeting with Robert E. Fryer, Director of the Mich- icy. The 3-member committee acts as a \\watchdogl/ and study igan Municipal league, (left) they discuss changes in annexa- group, meeting whe.never issues of major farm importance tion laws to give greater farm protection. Committee members need attention. They analyze wording and intent of Farm include Robert Zeeb, (standing) Dean Pridgeon, Chairman; and Bureau policy statements and compare them with proposed Eugene Roberts. Much recent committee attention has centered legislation before making action-recom mendations. Often on easing problems caused by Workmen's Compensation. ,Workmen's Comp Problems Michigan farmers are greatly perturbed by obvious confusion effective, one of the bills must pass through both House and roll, means another big boost in farm costs. Michigan State Uni- SAFETY SIGN BOOSTED and excessive cost<;existing within Senate, and be given «immediate versity farm-account figures now "Slow-moving vehicles may create a safety hazard on the new Workmen's Compensa- effect" in each House by a two- show about 60 per cent of costs streets and highways," said delegates at the Michigan Farm tion Act, soon to apply to all thirds vote of the members, and on a fruit farm of our state repre- Bureau convention held in East Lansing last NovembeI'. farmers. then be signed by the Governor. sent hired labor. Workmen's com- , While the 1965 Act became Although veteran capital ob- pensation could add another five "We urge all fanners and other operators of slow-moving effective on business and indus- servers feel this wiU occur, until # per cent. vehicles to purchase and use this standard emblem," the try in general, September 1, the does, farmers can only assume delegates wrote. If the legislature delays the ef- agricultural section was given an that the Act will apply to them Representative Harry E. Rohlfs, of Akron, in Tuscola fective date of the Act, fanners effective date of May 1, 1966. this year as originally intended County, representing the 84th District in the Michigan ask immediate action in making In the face of mounting recog- on the May 1 date. Legislature, has introduced a bill (H.B. 3267) which would needed changes in the law. Ac- nition of need for many changes In its present form and under require vehicles with a maximum speed of not more than tion during the present session in the Act, the Michigan Farm presently quoted rates (see dis- 30 miles per hour to carry and display an approved reflec- would permit time for insurance Bureau urged a delay in the ef- cussion topic, page 14) the law presents problems to both farm- companies to prepare needed torized device. Representative Rohlfs has a sample of such fective date to permit amend- coverage and allow fanners to a device and expects to demonstrate its effectiveness to ments to be prepared and adop- ers and insurance carriers. It is adjust to the law's requir~ments. the Legislature. ted. difficult to locate insurance com- Bills have been intropuced in panies willing to write required Under no circumstances should "There is no doubt in my mind that the adoption of the House and Senate to delay coverage. the legislature fail to complete this measure will do much to lessen accidents involving the effective date to May 1, 1967. For farmers, the addition of action on needed changes during the slow-moving vehicle," Rohlfs said. For the one-year delay to become $8.35 per $100 of covered pay- the 1966 session. President's Boor- Bottle Livestock DiScussion IN THIS ISSUE Conference Page 3 Battle Page 5 Tour Page 9 Topic Page 14 TWO March 1, 1966 MICH'IGAN FARM NEWS d torial President's Column YOU AND I. • • COOPERATION Farm Bureau "'omen have a relatively new Farmer cooperatives have encollntered many committee that has swung into action - the successes and failures in their 100 years hist()r~ "Understanding and Information" committee, Practically all of the failures have heen due to which title they have significantly reduced to one thing. Farmers didn't cooperate in the "U and 1". ways that counted. The successes came when ~r[ore meaningful than first glance might in- thev did. dicate, the committee title was selected in There is rarely anything wrong with the co- recognition that if YOU and .I know more ops that beticI' cooperation by farmers wouldn'ill about each other this exchange of information fix. Cooperation is an asset to farmers, without will of necessity bring about understanding and doubt. And, it makes an organization like Farm on this basis you and I will be better able to Bureau go, too. Success in co(iperation is a work together. personal thing for every farmer if advantages Appropriately. too, YOU should come before are to be realized. As farming gets more com- I - for isn't this the way of a civilized society? plicated and costly, cooperation will hecome Just as wise men and women through the ages more important. ... have agreed that tnle love is never selfish, I got interested in Farm Bureau when I was. tnle consideration for others comes from a gen- active in my local farm co-op. I found that uine understanding and appreciation of others. Farm Bureau and the co-op were working for A Gentleman opens the door for others. A the same things. Farm Bureau was all sorts Lady inquires about the needs and desires of of farmers pulling together on a grand scale. guests. This consideration brings with it auto- Yet, with both of them, the benefits gained are matic reciprocity, for as in all nature, like must directly related to the cooperation given by produce like. the famlers. That is a lesson we farmers havtl. A genuine interest and concern for others is TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR SUCCESS? not learned one hundred percent. returned, and in these confused days, farmers Farm Bureau has gone hand in hand with need the kind understanding of a long list 9f cooperatives since it began in 1919. It carried friends. More than ever before, farmers need the standard for them in tax issues, transpor- friends in town and city, in the courthouse, on the Board of Supervisors, in the Legislature Outstanding Farmer tation problems threats. and many other legislative There have been major and minor and Congress. examples. How well agriculture does in the immediate Although it is doubtful that any farnl ladies carry In 1965, Farm Bureau succeeded in getting future in each of these places will largely de- whips to lash hushands into becoming successful farm one word changed in a trucking bill. That one pend upon what has been termed the "en- businessmen, there is no doubt whatsoever that today's word saved fanner co-ops many thousands of lightened self-interest" of these friends who farmwife carries her full load in building a successful dollars in tnlCking fees. Farmers benefit in right now can outvote farmers nearly 15 to II farm enterprise. these savings. 1964 ~ Farm Bureau blocked It is typical of Farm Bureau women to have But instead of a whip, she uses brainpower in acting the licensing of bulk fertilizer spreaders under a positive program already in operation in an- as a full-time partner in what has become a compli- the State Motor Vehicle Code. Licenses would swer to such harsh facts. They, more than any cated, high-financed and fast-moving industry. have meant turn signals and all the other other group within Farm Bureau, have shown gadgets required for tnlcks. Every move takes growing concern with the lack of understanding Even with modern labor-saving devices found in major support by farmers to put it through:. of farm economics on the part of the average most farm homes - or perhaps because of them, to- Or - consider what cooperation means in non-farm consumer and voter. day's farm women does more work by actual measure the area of farm supplies. vVhether you are Farm Bureau \Vomen have been hard at work than did her great-grandmother. She is chauffeur in running a local co-op or a Farm -Bureau fer- reaching out to the non-farm public through the school car-pool, family bookkeeper and typist and tilizer factory, no savings are earned for farm- sponsorship of "Press Relations" tours and visits. involved in many community activities, including we ers until your business goes above the break- They have effectively told the story of farmer- trust, work in a Farm Bureau Women's group. even point. The more business the farmers do support for the free-market system; of the low with their co-op above that point, the greater Nowhere is the result of this helpful teamwork more 37rt share farmers receive from each dollar spent the savings to be returned to them in patronag, evident than during the judging of the annual Out- Our Fann Bureau fertilizer factories give a for food, and of farm opposition to freedom- standing Young Farmer program, sponsored each year good example of this. vVe know that if farmers robbing farm programs and controls. by the ~1ichigan State J uniar Chamber of Commerce. in the state would buy only 10,000 tons more But most of all, Farm Bureau 'Vomen are concerned about the ability of farm people to Scheduled for March 5, in the Elks Temple at Alma, Farm Bureau fertilizer, it would mean a sav- speak effectively for themselves. Subscribers the state contest will bring together fifteen or more ing of $1.90 a ton. The savings are lost when to the belief that the best kind of Public Rela- impressive young farm couples for the contest finals farmers don't use their cooperative program tions are described as "Project and Report" the and the naming of the "Most Outstanding" farmer and to the fullest. vVomen have set themselves to the task of pro- his wife. Another example. In the face of the shorta~ moting the best techniques to use in projecting of seasonal farm workers last year, many grow- Judges Milan Grinnell, former farm editor; E. B. ers suggested that Farm Bureau set up a pro- the most effective reports possible to the non- Hill of Michigan State University and Dwight Ballard, gram to recntit and provide farm workers to farm public. Eaton Rapids poultryman, are sure to encounter con- fill the farmers' requirements. This means conveying how farmers feel about siderable trouble in picking out, as they must, the one Our marketing department figured the least farm programs, apportionment, minimum wages, foreign farm labor, compulsory Work- couple which in their estimation have demonstrated number of workers under grower contracts men's Compensation and a dozen similarly vital the greatest management ability, family achievement necessary to support such a program. It would issue~. This means reporting in person on radio and community service work. take at least 1,300 workers in the program ~ and television, before city officials and political Michigan farmers will be proud of their selection fee rates similar to those charged in other states leaders, visiting with civic and luncheon clubs, and .pleased that such an energetic and important to give the minimum finances needed and get church and school groups. the program off the ground. group as the Michigan Jaycees have paused in their Recognizing that many otherwise qualified So growers were surveyed to see how many whirlwind of programs to once more pay tribute to farm spokesmen need the kind of encourage- workers they would take under a Farm Bureau farmers and the farming business. contracting program. Results were insufficient ment which comes from working with others of similar intent, Michigan Farm Bureau to turn on the green light for the effort. Grow- Women have now provided a training session ers that regularly use 30 to 50 workers wou~ open to Farm Bureau members, leaders and sign up for only 5 or 10 workers. If people MICHIGAN"'FARM NEWS who ask for a program will not go "all out" to officers. TH. ACTION ~U.LICATION 0 .. THE MICHIGAN "ARM .UR.AU support it, the program can be stalled before it Only qualification needed to take part in The MICHIGAN FARM NEWS is DIRECfORS: District I, Max K. published monthly, on the first day, Hood. Paw Paw, R-I; District 2, Wil- gets started. This is what I mean when I say their two-day, state wide "Speakers Bureau" by the Michiltan Fann Bureau, at its bur H. Smith, BurlinJlton. R-l; District publication office at 109 N. Lafayette 3. Donald L. Ruhlijl, Dexter; Dis- that we have to measure the extent of our own set for the dates of March 10-11 at Camp Kett Street. Greenville, Michigan. trict 4, E It 0 n R. Smith. Caledonia, Editorial and Jleneral oHices at 4000 R-l; District 5, David Morris, Grand cooperation if we accept a cooperative program in Northern i\f ichigan (described in detail on North Grand River Avenue, LansinK, Ledlle, R-3; District 6, Ward G. HOOKe, to bring us benefits. page 8, this issue) is the sincere desire to be- MichiJlan. Post Office Box 960. Tele- Snover, R-I; District 7, Kenneth Bull, phone, Lansing, 485-8121. Extension Bailey, R-l; District 8, Harvey Leuen- vVhen it comes to building a new Farm Bu- come a more effective voice for agriculture. 317. berger, Sallinaw. R-6; District 9, Established January 12, 1923. Sec- EUllene Roberts, Lake City, R-I; Dis- reau to meet Ollr needs for the future, we hav.... Men and women are equally welcome, nov- ond Class Postage paid at Greenville, trict 10. Edgar Diamond. Alpena, R- to consider the same point. No program can be Michigan. Subscription price, 50t per 2; District 11, Edmund Sager, ices and accomplished speakers alike, can share year. Stephenson. made to go without the cooperation of the EDITORIAL: Editor, Melvin L. and add to the learning process. Woell; Staff Photographer, Charles OmECTORS AT LARGE: Walter memhers. This is tnle with legislative efforts Bailey; Staff Artist, Sam Bass. Women's Frahm. Frankenmuth: Dean Prideeon, If farmers are serious about this business of Material, Mrs. Donna Wilber. Montgomel"}', R-l; Walter Wightman, or any special service programs we may try. building an organized VOICE for agriculture, OFFICERS: Michillan Fann Bu- Fennville, R-l. reau; President. Elton R. Smith, Cale- WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. Building a new Farm Bureau isn't a small if they truly mean what they say when they donia, R-I; Vice President, Dean William Scramlin, Holly; FARM BU- Pridgeon, Montj.',omery,R-I; Secretary- REAU YOUNG PEOPLE: Raymond job. A few leaders alone can't do it. It's more join Farm Bureau to better speak for them- Manalter, Clarence E. Prentice, Okemos. Kucharek. Gaylord. like building a big cathedral than a tool shec-' selves, then they cannot resist this excellent POSTMASTER: In using form 3579, mail to: Michigan Farm NewI, 4000 N. It takes the work of a lot of dedicated people, chance to sharpen their ability I Grand River, lanllng, Michigan. and the best ideas that can be fourul. Second clall postage paid at Greenville, Michigan M.W. E. S. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS March 1, 1966 THREE Top County Officers "They have been a wonderful source of leadership and have as- sured us an active, informed core Meet, Plan, Prepare of members in Farm Bureau. We need a strong youth movement in Tradition named it the "County Farm Bureau Presidents' the groups. So let's go to work on it." Conference." It has expanded beyond this in the past two President Smith indicated that years to include all members of the County Farm Bureau Ex- the Michigan Farm Bureau board ecutive Committees. of directors is vigorously wor1dng Over 100 of these leaders attended the two-day session held at ideas and plans for new pro- at Camp Kett, near Cadillac, February 14-15. grams and improvements at the It was, without question, one state level. The growing farm your other Farm Bureau activity of the most important Farm Bu- labor problem is one of them. committees. reau meetings of 1966. Forty- "The Michigan Farm Bureau is "But we must move beyond seven counties had leaders in at- trying to figure out how best to mere talk and discussion. We tendance. Their task was to set provide a seasonal labor place- must go to work. What is hap- the course for Farm Bureau pro- ment service," he said. "Exten- pening in your county is happen- gram advancement in the year sive studies have been made by ing to your people, whether it is ahead. our Market Development Depart- a matter of taxes, zoning, traffic "We must look alive as lead- ment. Before we can go ahead, safety, annexation, schools, drain- ers, chaIlenged Elton Smith, we have to know what chances age and water problems, right-of- president of the Michigan Farm are for success and what charges way, local government, farm labor Bureau, in his opening address must be made for those who use or marketing. Put your county titled, "We build the ladder on the service. ORGANIZATION CHART - Showing location of Cooperative Extension Service Farm Bureau in the forefront of which we rise!" "The groundwork and promo- field personnel, is exploined by George Mcintyre (right) of the Service. With him county affairs. Then the people is Elton Smith (left) and MFB Board Member, Harvey leuenberger. Mcintyre ap- will consider Farm Bureau im- tion needed to give this program "1966 is a TEST YEAR that peared on an evening program at the President's Conference. portant enough to join and to a trial run will call for a lot of will measure Ollr leadership and work at." help by the county Farm Bureaus. set the future course of our Farm This same cooperation wiII be Bureau. In moving to $20 dues, A former member of the Michi- gan Farm Bureau staff and pres- needed for many of the programs we have merely mounted the first we might try in the future of the 'rung' of the wdder necessary to ently head of the Local Program- ming Department of the American new Farm Bureau. In Farm Bu- SANITATION AND EFFI.CIENCY fulfill our commitments to build a 'New' and better Farm Bureau. Farm Bureau Federation, worked reau, the success of programs rests on the cooperation of many We must build the higher 'rungs' with the county leaders. He was ... PARTNERS WITH CONCRETE Jerry Cordrey, recently selected people." of this wdder and move upward. The programs and services which as his community's "Most Out- In a closing summary, Clarence we generate must make Farm Bu- standing Man of the Year" by the Prentice, secretary-manager of the ~lichigan Farm Bureau, pointed IN THE DAIRY INDUSTRY reau one of the most vital forces to the lives of our farm people. local Jaycee Chapter. Cordrey told the conference out that the key to positive action that the best way to increase rural lies, to a great extent, within the "The County Farm Bureaus will morale of the leadership. \torale -be one of the most important influence is through effective per- is partly a matter of faith in our- r testing grounds. The program ac- sonal involvement in local affairs. He said that we cannot win by selves plus an attitude of deter- tion which you generate in your mination to get things done. substituting protests for programs. home counties will be a vital test He said that you can measure of the vitality of the New Farm Time was given at the confer- ence to studying the mix-up in the achievements of any cormty 11 Bureau. It should become so vital Farm Bureau in terms of the mo- to farmers and members that the \Vorkmen's Compensation Act of 1965, and current action needed rale of its leaders. High morale Farm Bureau becomes a 'first' on puts Farm Bureau in the fore- their list of interests and civic to corre~t confusions in the law. Dan Reed, Legislative Counsel of front of affairs in the counties activity. where high morale exists. the Michigan Farm Bureau, and "Many of the problems and James Rathbun, head of the Un- "Many people say morale is needs which we must tackle are derwriting Division of the Farm something that spreads from peculiar to your own county and 13ureau Insurance Croup, told of somewhere else. In Farm Bureau, locality. As leaders, we must find confusions existing in the law as county leaders may say it starts at those problems and go to work on it now affects farmers. the state office. In the state of- them. We must ask our members The county leaders decided on fice, we are likely to say it starts what problems most concern them a course of action to get support in the county. County leaders may right in the counties. for changes in the law at the pres- say morale springs from the mem- "Pick the problems that are ent session of the Legislature, in- bers and members feel the county most pressing. Set up a fact- cluding a series of district-wide board presses the button to start finding committee to gather all information meetings for county the flow of morale," Prentice said. the information needed. Then leaders. "Morale, then, is the product of turn the problem and the facts President Smith urged the the best in all of us - working over to a county Farm Bureau County Farm Bureau officers to together. High morale and con- Planning Committee. Tie this step up the work to strengthen fidence on the part of the connty planning committee to your whole Community Farm Bureaus. "They board wiII be reflected in every- county Farm Bureau activity. Let are very important as a form of thing that's done in the county On a concrete-paved lot, cows stay cleaner. Less cleaning it consist of the chairmen of all member participation," he said. Farm Bureau." time is required so cows get in and out of the milking parlor faster. And concrete helps control mastitis and foot rot, cut vet bills. Barnyard clean-up is easy. Tractor- mounted manure loaders work fast and efficiently. On concrete, you save most of the manure-including the liquid portion. Tests at the Ohio State University Ex- periment Station show that one quarter of this high- nitrogen liquid is lost on a dirt lot. Savings in manure alone can repay the cost of a concrete lot in a few years. With all these advantages, the cost of concrete is moderate. Your ready-mixed concrete produc~r can help you plan and build a concrete lot. Use the coupon for free booklet. -------------------------- .. ••. PORTLAND CEMENT ASSOCIATION 900 Stoddard Bldg., Lansing, Michigan 48933 An org8nization 10 improve and extend the uses of concrete, made possibl, by th, financial support of most competing cement manuf"turers in th, United States and Canada Please send me free copy of "Pave Your Barnyard with Concrete" Name_. _ St. or R. No. City Statc _ 17 ALL IN FAVOR - hold up your right hand, and this hard-working group of county officers voted overwhelmingly to spon- sor county informational meetings dealing with the Workmen's Compensation Act and what it will mean to Michigan farm- ers. Earlier, James Rathbun of Farm Bureau Insurance told of many conflicting areas of the Act. FOUR March 1, 1966 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS • capitol report "And I thought the Agriculture Committee would be such a nice, quiet responsi- bility," said Mary Keyser, Secretary to Senator Roger Johnson, Chairman of the Agriculture Committee. The 1965 battle for the passage of dairy unfair trade practices legislation centered around the Senate Agriculture Committee. Mail, telegrams and telephone calls flooded Mrs. Keyser's desk. The bill, which would outlaw below.cost selling and other unfair trade practices, generated much heated debate. The bill has passed the House but lies on the table in the Senate. There seems to be a general feeling that it would be useless to bring the bill back to the floor for a vote unless amendments can be made to make the bill more acceptable to a majority of the Senators. If changes are made in the bill, it would then go back to the House, where it would be subject to another vote. PROTECTING PEOPLE FREE.PRESS. REPORTER- Roger Lane (left) visits with Majority Leader, Rep.resentative J. Robert Traxler (D-Bay City) and FROM THE MAJORITY Representative Sanford E. Charron, Pinconning. Actions taken in a long, Monday night session are the topic. Both Legislators Over a period of time, the Supreme Court of the United have extensive farm areas in their districts and have sponsored farm bills. States has handed down a series of decisions which require that states reapportion their legislatures on the basis of Marketing Food for Freedom population only. These are commonly referred to as the ctone-man, one-vote" decisions. The result has been a long and intense controversy which is far from ended. By: Dan E. Reed sions, and less emphasis on gov- It has been common for states to establish the l~gislatures Legislative Counsel ernment regulation and control. on a basis comparable to that of Congress. One house is Purchase in the market of items appointed on population; the other on geographical and Will there really be a major change in the direction of farm needed for Food for Peace pro- programs? There are straws in the wind which continue to point political considerations as well as population. grams would tend to guide the this way. This could be one of the biggest changes affecting production of commodities needed The Supreme Court has thrown this old and established agriculture since the beginning of national farm programs in the rather than give false signals re- system out. And the result has been a large and growing early 1930s. sulting in the continued produc- movement to restore the right of the states to constitute Last June, Senator George Mc- funds now being appropriated for tion of commodities already in their legislatures as their people may desire. Govern, of South Dakota, intro- various price suport programs, di- surplus. At the last session of Congress, a constitutional amend- duced a world food bill aiming in rect payment to producers, and There are many difficulties ment, usually referred to as the Dirksen Amendment, was the direction of the purchase in P.L. 480 subsidies. ahead in expanding and rechan- offered in the Senate. Its purpose is " ... to preserve to the market place of food supplies. The difference in the various nelling an already large program the people of each State power to determine the composi- These would be used to carry out proposals advanced by Senator aimed at feeding hungry people tion of its legislature and the apportionment of the mem- the U. S. Food for Peace pro- McGovern and other members of in the free areas of the world. In some situations, cargo handling bership thereof in accordance with law and the provisions grams in the under-developed na- Congress and the proposal that of the Constitution of the United States:' tions of the world. Farm Bureau and other farm facilities will have to be con- groups are suggesting are not so structed before more food sup- There were 57 yea votes as against only 39 nays. How- SIX BILLION! great that compromise and action plies can be unloaded and pro- ever, the Amendment was rejected, because the necessary tected from waste and destruction. two-thirds majority was not obtained. However, as Senator Sparking the new approach is cannot be expected. Senator Mc- More facilities must be devel- Dirksen has said, "The final chapter has not yet been writ- the growing awareness of the Govern has asked the Senate for oped to move the food from ten. The battle will be continued." And it promises to probability of the doubling of the unanimous consent to move his where it is unloaded to the places world's population in the next 35 bill from the Foreign Relations provide one of the major issues of the current session. where the people are. years. This increase, from a little Committee, where it was origin- The arguments in favor of the Amendment, and in op- over three billion to more than six ally referred, to the Senate Agri- RECOMMENDED ... position to forcing all state legislative houses to be appor- billion mouths to be fed, shocks a culture Committee .. tioned on a population basis only, are many and varied. world already aware that much of The Chairman of the Foreign The new interest in farm pro- Justice Harlan, in dissenting from one of the Court's de- its population lives in a state of Relations Committee, Senator Ful- grams aims in the direction rec- ommended by the delegates at cisions, said: ct ••• judicial entry into this realm is profoundly perpetual hunger. bright, okayed the action and said the Michigan Farm Bureau an- ill advised and constitutionally impermissible .... the Recognizing the changing situ- his committee was busy anyway nual convention held in East Lan- vitality of our political system, on which in the last analysis ation, delegates at the American and the bill concerned agriculture Farm Bureau convention, in Chi- and should be referred to that sing in November, 1965. The all else depends, is weakened by reliance on the judiciary cago in December 1965, headed committee. delegates at that time encouraged for political reform; in time a complacent body politic their major statement on govern- Presumably this is in line with "further study of aU. S. farm may result." ment food and production pro- the present thinking of the Ad- program of production for use." A very different kind of argument comes from Senator gramming "Marketing Food for ministration that funds authoriz- The delegates said such a pro- Dirksen: "The question is not one of rural domination or Freedom." The resolution opens ing the purchase of food supplies gram should include: urban domination or ethnic domination or labor domina- with the statement - "We favor for such programs should go to More freedom for fanners to tion or any other type of domination. The issue, simply, the use of food to assist less de- the U.S.D.A. While there is a produce - elimination of allot- is whether the people of a State are to be allowed to de- veloped nations seeking to move danger that the addition of this ments, quotas and other ham- termine for themselves the manner in which they would toward goals of economic growth, food-buying item to the U.S.D.A. pering regulations - higher prosperity, and peace. We recom- budget will give a very false im- be governed." fann income based on produc- mend a program to offer such as- pression to uninformed citizens tion. Still another telling argument is put forward by the Na- :;istance in a manner that will pro- who feel that the whole U.S.D.A. tional Council for Fair Reapportionment, Inc.: "This More food for the world's hun- vide for constructive changes in budget is a farmer subsidy, there Amendment will cure the present situation in which a is also a feeling that the food gry - purchased OIl the market existing programs." bare majority of the voters can deny representation in the and provided as America's con- . A key to Farm Bureau's recom- purchase program would be more State legislature to all other individuals .... It will protect tribution to the prevention of mendations is a shift from the realistic than if handled bv the racial and religious minorities .... This Amendment pro- starvation. idea of dumping agricultural sur- State Department, which \~as a vides for the minority representation in the halls of gov- pluses in foreign nations to one proposed alternative. Less cost and more' results for ernment and the protection of the rights of individuals to of purchasing those commodities There is sound reason to hope taxpayers - greatly reduced participate .... This Amendment will make government needed through the regular mar- that the new emphasis on "pro- costs of program administration ket channels. duction for use" rather than "pro- There is good statistical evi- duction for government storage" - elimination of excessive gov- ernment storage costs - pur- chase for needs, not for surplus more democratic representation because it will insure the appropriate in the State legislature of the 49 per cent of the people who might otherwise be denied representation.~' • dence to show that such a program will help in restoring the farmer's could be adequately financed from freedom to make his own deci- disposal. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS March 1, 1966 FIVE ., "BOTTLE-BATTLE" BEGINS IN STATE LEGISLATURE An editorial in a recent issue In an editorial titled "Nickle of the Livingston County Press Bottle Bill Deserves Support" the has lent strong support to the Livingston County Press stated: opinion of most farmers concern- "The bill just introduced in the ing "throwaway" containers such Michigan House of Representa- as beer bottles. tives to ban throwaway beer bot- Tn official resolution, the Farm tles and initiate a nickel-a-bottle Bureau delegates pointed out that minimum deposit, has our whole- over 18,000 truckloads of bottles, hearted support. cans and paper will be picked up by hand on state highways alone "Situated as we are here in during the present year. Glass Livingston County, practically is by far the greater nuisance and surrounded by state land and is a costly hazard to tires, live- state supported recreation areas, stock, harvesting equipment and we bear the brunt of a lot of 'city the hands and feet of children litter: and adults. "Too many of our fine road- INTERNATIONAL COMMERCE- Committee Chairman is State Senator Gilbert E. Recently a bill has been intro- Bursley, (R-Ann Arbor) Washtenaw and parts of Lenawee counties form his dis- side parks, beaches and sport trict. He has introduced bills to further Michigan's foreign trade and expansion of duced to enact into law the Farm areas are littered with broken, dis- farm exports. Michigan farmers are vitally interested. Bureau request that "the Legisla- REP. SliNGERLEND carded beverage bottles or cans. ture require all bottled beverages A BOTTLE BATTLE- expected to result sold in Michigan to be delivered in returnable bottles with a de- posit value of at least five-cents from a bill now introduced in the legis- lature, is discussed on Farm Bureau radio by Rep. Robert Slingeriend Oakland). (0- The bill has received wide- "While a nickel bottle deposit may not deter the drinker from casting it aside, it might bring out WATCHDOG COMMITTEE each, to encourage their return." spread public support. the kids in droves to salvage a A half-dozen issues of maior importance to "Al ichigan farmers little extra spending money. r 'I "According to a. recent release were among those discussed by the Legislntive Committee the Michigan Farm Bureau, meeting in Farm Bureau Center, of j it costs the Michigan State High- way Department 32~ for' each discarded bottle or can it picks Lansing, for the "first called" meeting of the new year. Michigan Farm Bureau Vice President, Dean Pridgeon, serves as chairman of this important committee. Other members in- up along the highway. Surely this money could be used to bet- clude directors Eugene Roberts and Robert Zeeb. In its work, ter advantage. the committee analyzes Farm Bureau policies in terms of pro- posed legislation and closely correlates these policies with ac- "In our opinion, this bill intro- duced by Rep. Robert ]. Slinger- tions of the legislature. As need arises, the committee (6) A possible "Emigrant lend of Lake Orion deserves our Agent" law for ~1ichigan. A num- full suppOrt. It doesn't cost the invites specialists in fields of legis- lative interest to appear before ber of states require farm labor taxpayer a thing, it doesn't even _them and to consult on policy recruiters coming in from another cost the beer drinker an extra state to be licensed before seeking matters. cent if he takes his bottles back Among the subjects covered by to recruit farm workers for service 'like a good drinker should', and the Committee were: in another state. it's a step in the right direction so (1) Changes needed in legis- Some states provide very high nature lovers can eventually har- lation providing agricultural cov- license fees which work as bar- vest a clean, un littered country erage under the 'Vorkmen's Com- riers against mobility of labor. side. pensation law on a mandatory Recognizing the possibilities of basis. retaliation, and believing that a "If you have any views on this (2) Consideration of possible free flow of farm labor is best for "MAY I CUT IN?" - One recent beer-bottle count was made on a Michigan express- proposed bill, our own Rep. all of agriculture, the Committee way where on a 13 mile stretch, 78 throw-away beer bottles were tallied from a changes in annexation laws to car traveling 65 miles per hour. Many were smashed on the road edge. It would Thomas Sharpe in Lansing might provide reasonable protection for looked more favorably on a mini- ., cost $25 to have this number picked up, or at 5f. each, a boy could have earned $4. appreciate hearing from you." agricultural land against unwise mum cost of licensing, with regis- use of annexation and incorpora- tration and reporting as a part of tion laws. The discussion included the requirement placed on the not only annexation and incorpo- Emigrant Agent. ,Add an extensionphone ration of cities and villages, but also involved recent changes in charter township legislation. (3) Slow-moving vehicle em- There was also some discussion of a possible bonding provision to insure that the recruiter did not "over-sell" the advantages of blem legislation. employment in his area. (4) A proposed new licensing In 1965 there was some crop law covering landscape architects loss in Michigan resulting from and arborists. The provisions of recruiting workers on the job in this would not affect growers of Michigan to leave our state for sod, nursery stock and landscap- employment in adjoining states. ing materials unlesS the grower Some left the Michigan crops be- also provided a service in sod lay- fore the harvesting was done only ing and landscaping. to arrive in their new locations to f (5) Personal property tax ex- find the promised employment emptions. A number of bills have was not available as the crops had been introduced or are in prepa- not yet ripened. ration. The Committee discussed The recommendations of the security at night the best procedures for support- Legislative Committee will be ing legislation to accomplish the presented to the MFB Board at objectives of Farm Bureau policy. its next meeting. <.~:._..-".... ~ ... ,...-, ............... _.- Call our Business Office today - or ask your Telephone Man @ Michigan ~ Bell Part of the Nationwide Bell System "MAYOR OF SQUASH HILL"- Rep. Claude E. Burton (D-Bellevue) - so named be- cause as one of the few farmers in the Legislature, he grows the big vegetables. Burton is among those introducing bills to provide farm property tax relief. SIX March 1, 1966 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Legis-Late-Notes Rep. Harry Rohlfs (R), representing parts of Saginaw and Tuscola Counties, is concerned ahout highway acci- dents involving slow-moving vehicles. A serious accident in his community recently has put focus on the need for increased use of the approved slow-moving vehicle emhlem. Designed by the National Safety Council, the emblem is trian!:,'ltlar in shape, brightly colored, and reflectorized. A statement adopted at the November 1965 convention of ~lichigan Farin Bureau urges "all fanners and other operators of slow-moving vehicles to purchase and use this standard emblem." 000 ~10re than $15 billion in food costs each year has been saved for American consumers through developments in agricultural technology resulting from research. Michigan farmers still face critical probleI!1s. A proposed $495,000 research expansion program, to be STATE DISCUSSION TOPIC COMMITTEE members met at the new radio-television studios at farm Bureau Center, January 21, carried out by the Agricultural Experiment Station, would to select topics for community groups and to evaluate the discussion program. The committee, chaired by Don Kinsey, Michi- provide for development of vegetable varieties to meet gan farm Bureau Information Division, is now established as an advisory committee of the Michigan farm Bureau board new market demands and to adapt varieties to mechani<.:al of directors. harvesting, provide research aid for the cherry inqustry and provide for expanded markets for Michigan's proc- A WORKING COMMITTEE essed foods through the development and new methods of packaging. of new products Greatly increased pesticide use, estimated at over 200% in the last two years, is causin~ problems of DDT residue !\!eet your State Discussion Topic Committee. tical Integration in Modern Agri- build-up in certain areas and is causing concern regarding It's a working committee. On a Friday in January and again culture." The committee took compliance with tolerance requirements. Bud~et fi~ures in July, it assembles to do a variety of jobs. action to do as the delegates rcq /tested. for research in these four areas have been tightly drawn to It criticizes and evaluates the discussion program of the Com- Since the Michigan Farm Bu- accomplish practical results. munity Farm Bureaus. It suggests changes and new approaches. reau board of directors had re- Great amounts of federal money are used in the areas It studies current issues and problems that may need to be cently called for a strengthening of basic research. It remains, however, for practical appli- considered by the members in the groups. and further building of our Com- cations to be made to meet the needs of Michigan's agri- "mnnity Farm Bureaus, the com- business industry. It selects a group of topics to be prepared, either for the regu- mittee considered it a good idea 000 lar discussion schedule or for special optional flse by the gl'~tlps. to discuss how we can strengthen Last year labor recruiters from other states drew off sup- - In 1965, this committee became member activity through groups Topic Selections plies of Michigan labor before the completion of harvest. a special advisory committee of and other types of programs. the ~lichigan Farm Bureau board There is much interest and con- Many states require out-oF-state labor recruiters to register vVhat coverages will Blue Cross- of directors. Its members are ap- cern about. the new \Vorkmen's Blue Shield offer to supplement and be licensed under "emigrant agent laws." In some pointed by the directors who rep- Compensation law and how it will the Medicare programs? Give the states the license requirements range from $1,000 to $5,000. resent the Farm Bureau districts affect farmers. The Farm Bureau members information, if possihle, Often a separate license is' required for each city or of ~lichigan. It may work on spe- "'omen requested that this matter said the committee. county in which the recruiter seeks to work. Such barriers cial study assignments relating to be considered for group discussion. Somewhere a bit later in the do much to prevent a free flow of fqrm labor to those the Community Farm Bureaus at New developments may appear topic series :o;hould be a "progress areas where the opportunities and needs are greatest. the request of the board. in the Legislature in the coming report" - to the" groups regarding The Michigan Farm Bureau is participating in studies Serving on the State Topic weeks - and some uncertainty the plans being made to build which will probably lead to the introduction of an emi- Committee at its meeting in Lan- exists as to how the law may be the "New Farm Bureau," the grant agent licensing law in ~fichigan. It is expected, how- sing on Friday, January 21, were: adjusted. ~lany say the law is un- committee decided. The groups ever, that license fees will be nominal, with registration workable as it stands. The Topic' themselves may yield some good Lawrence Rhoda, District 1, and reporting of activities as the important control. Committee called for a review of ideas for improved or new pro- Kalamazoo County; Edwin Kiess- this on the March calendar. There is also a possibility that a performance bond grams. ling, Dist. 2, Calhoun; Robert Declining student enrollments Another possibility fur a topic might be a part of the requirement for out-of-state re- Verellen, Dist. 3, Macomb; \Vil- in the College of Agriculture at ill the near future deals with cf1,liters working in Michigan. "lard DeVries, Dist. 4, Allegan; ~'lichigan State University create County Home Rule - and how it 000 Richard Noble, Dist. 5, Clinton; some hazards for the future of will affect future local govern- Four of the five members of the new Agriculture Com- Mrs. Ford Boyne, Dist. 6, Tus- that program. vVhat can Farm ments. mission have been appointed by Governor Romney and cola; Jerome Jorrissen, Distl 7, Bureau do to help boost more Shl- The committee requested that a await Senate confirmation. Under the law, the Commis- Mason; Mrs. Lillian Wonsey, dent enrollments in agriculture? special, optional discussion packet -, sion is bipartisan. Dist. 8, Isabella; Robert Snell, Farmers should have an interest be made available for groups in- , Appointees announced include: Charles Donaldson, Jr., in keeping the Agricultural Col- terested in discussing highway Dist. 9, Benzie; 'Vilbur Priddy, Menominee Countv; Mrs. Seth Tompkins, Grand Traverse lege strong. This is a topic to and farm safety. Eight optional Dist. 10, Ogemaw; and Orville County; Blaque K~irk, Branch County, and Richard Stout, come soon. discussion packets on a variety of Bawks, Dist. 11 (U.P.), Chippewa. subjects are now available where Calhoun County. At the ~lichigan Farm Bureau Mrs. Rhoda, Mrs. DeVries and annual meeting in November, the groups desire to use them, at the Under the statute, the fifth Commissioner .will be a .\frs. Bawks accompanied their delegates asked for group discus- modest costs of printing and mail- Democrat. It is expected that someone from the eastern .. husbands at the meeting. sion of the "Development of Ver- ing the packets. part of Michigan will be named. Farm Bureau has sub- mitted a list of names proposing qualified farmers to serve in this important agricultural post. 000 Trade expansion is receiving attention from the Legis- lature and from the Executive office. Governor Romney has called for increased shipments of food to under-de- veloped nations and is supporting legislation to assist in the promotion and expansion of foreign sales of state farm products. Rep. E. D. O'Brien and Senator Gilbert Bursley head committees of the Legislature concerned with expansion of Michigan's export markets. 000 The cry often goes up for all farm organizations to get together in support of the same policies. A recent voice calling for such action comes from a well known economist. It should not be surprising that farm organizations do not always see eye to eye when economists themselves differ so widely on solutions to the problems of agricul- ture and our nation's fiscal stability. '. Nor do the President's advisors all seem to agree on what should be done in Vietnam. The very safety of 0111' nation is dependent on the op- « I portunity for people to join themselves into voluntary groups through which their voices call he heard. Una- lIimity is desirahle hut Il1I1St be voluntary if it is to be JERRY CORDREY- (standing in rear) former Michigan Farm Bureau staff member now with the American -farm Bureau feder- meaningful. ation, has been named "Outstanding Man of the Year" by his home-town Jaycees of Wheaton, Illinois. Cordrey heads the local Affairs Program for the A.f.B.f. Seated to the right are Wheaton Mayor and Mrs. Karl Heimke. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS March 1, 1966 SEVEN •• I I SOUTHWESTERN MICH. COLLEGE agriculture into the four-year col- McCoy, director, Vocational Agri- insurance, processing of foods, lege training programs. culture, Niles High School; A. H. storage of produce, farm sales- In the midst of much de-em- needs are measured against an ex- Dr. Ivey chaired a specially ap- Gines, farm chemical company; men, buyers, and plant manager phasis of agriculture and its re- ploding population. pointed committee of leading Dale 'Varsco, custom feed com- trainees. lated occupations, comes news of The two-year curriculum will farm authorities from the Dowa- pany; 'Valter Weber, farm chem- There is no age limit for admis- a new Michigan institution which aim at preparing students for im- giac area - which worked for ical company and Emmet Wilson, sion to the college, although stu- plans to give special stress to mediate employment in fields re- several months developing the farm feed company. dents must have a high school di- agricultural pursuits. lated to agricultural production, ~urriculum. It is notable that A student who successfully ploma to be eligible for admis- Southwest M ichigall Co}lege at ])rocessing and marketing. most members of the committee completes the two-year course will sion, however even this provision Dowagiac plans to offer a two- are men trained at Michigan State receive an ':,Associate-in-Science" can be waived if an adult demon- yea~ pro¥,ram of courses in «agri- Michigan fmm leaders have University, thus at least indirectly, degree from the college. Accord- strates the ability to successfully 1mSl1I ess. been pleased by the scope of the a relationship has been recognized ing to Dr. Ivey, "not only will the do the college work. Its Board of Trustees and its program and some have suggested and a bond formed. student who plans to farm bene- president, Dr. Nathan lvey, have declared that agriculture and its that the value of the curriculum could be increased further if con- The planning committee in- cludes members with a wide va- fit greatly from the Agri-Business course, but it will also prepare Bean related activities are playing a role of increasing importance in sideration were given to prepar- ing students for advanced work riety of agricultural interests. They include: Ross Bentley, di- men and women who want to seek positions in a wide variety of Commission The Michigan Senate on Febru- today's economy. in the College of Agriculture at farm-related industries." rector, Vocational Agricultural de- ary 10 gave unanimous aporoval There may be fewer farmers Michigan State University. partment, Cassopolis High School; Listed among them are: farm to the selections made by Gover- each year, but what they produce Thus Southwest Michigan Col- Joe Jeme, fmmer and industrial- fertilizers, agricultural chemicals, nor Romney for filling the nine and what happens to it, are more lege, and others like it, could be- ist; Jerry Hunziker, landscape ar- farm machinery, manufacturing or posts on the newly created Michi- important than ever before in come a strong link in the chain chitect and nurseryman; Duane distribution, farm feeds industry, gan Bean Commission. world history at a time when food «feeding" students interested in Jackson, farm manager; Kenneth farm marketing, farm credit, farm The Commission, under the law. elects its own officers for terms of one year. The officers authorized are a Chairman, a Treasurer "and sllch other offic- ers as it (the Commission) deems advisable." The Commission will also appoint a Secretary-Manager and set his compensation. Elected Chairman of the first meeting of the Commission has been Wilford Root of Saginaw. Edmund Good, Gagetown, has heen elected vice chairman, and Stanley Sherman, Lansing, Sec- retary. As outlined by P.A. 114 of the Public Acts of 1965, the duties of the new Commission include promotion of research on bean varieties and growing practices, and on the food values of beans and bean products. It will pro- mote.research on market develop- ment, and compile commodity information. The activities of the Commis- sion will be financed by an as- sessment of two cents per hun- dredweight on beans grown in the state in 1966 and annually thereafter. Growers not wishing to be included in the program may become nonparticipating for the year by making a proper fil- ing on or before June 1 with the Secretary of the Commission. ~Iembers of the Commission approved by Senate action are: \Varner Meylan Robert Dodge \Vilford Root Basil McKenzie Howard Hirth Edmund Good Fred Bach Stanley Sherman Dean Jickling ON NATIONAL COMMITTEE Two Michigan farm leaders have been named to American Farm Bureau Federation com- the big message for Spring modity committees for 1966. AFBF president, Charles B. Shu- man, annollnced that Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, will serve on • WATCHING - For four weeks, eight TV the national Dairy Advisory Com- stations will carry 87 commercials a week, mittee, and Eugene Roberts, Lake talking about \\Milk with Meals." City, on the national Poultry Ad- visory Committee . • LD,a...- - The radio audience will be Elton Smith, Michigan Farm reached on car radios, portables and in homes Bureau president, will represent - 4 weeks, on 54 stations. the Midwest region, along with • lEADING - Once each week, in 34 daily P. D. Hempstead of Minnesota, newspapers, a large advertisement' will sell John Armstrong, Kansas; C. R. \\Milk with Meals." Johnston, Missouri, and Perry Keltner, Illinois, on the 20-mem- This is the first of. three major 1966 ber dairy committee. Fluid Milk promotions - provided by Roberts, Michigan's district 9 over 75% of Michigan dairy farmers director, also represents the mid- who are working together, by sup- west region on the national poul- porting the American Dairy Associa- try commiHee. Serving with him tion program. are Clifford Bass, Wisconsin and William Phelps, Iowa. The committees are advisory am.erlcan dalry to the American Farm Bureau aSsoclation Federation board in the interpre- tation and application of policy of. MICHIGAN resolutions dealing with commod- 3000 Vine, Lansing ity problems as they arise in Con- gress and elsewhere. EIGHT March 1, 1966 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS ~ ... SYLVAN SETTING - of "Wesley Woods" Methodist Camp on Clear Lake, near Battle Creek, offers a charming rustic atmosphere for those who take part in the forthcoming Spring Holiday planned by Farm Bureau Women. American Farm Bu- • reau Secretary, Roger Fleming, will make one of his rare Michigan appearancesl at the Camp, April 6. Women Invited to ... "Have a Holiday!" The annual Spring Holiday, sponsored by the Farm Bu- "FARM PEOPLE CAN TELL THEIR STORY- if they will only try," Mrs. Eugene DeMatio tells other members of the U and I reau 'Vomen of District 1, and open to all women of the Committee of the Farm Bureau Women. This group working on plans}or a Speakers Bureau are (left to right): Mrs. DeMatio, state, has been set for April 6-7 at Wesley 'Voads Camp Miss Helen Atwood, Michigan Farm Bureau; Mrs. George Southworth, chairman, Elkton; Melvin Woell, Michigan Farm Bu- near Hastings. reau; Mrs. Clare Carpenter, Cass City, and Mrs. B. H. Baker, Merrill. Committee members not present were Mrs. Francis Campau, Ada, and Mrs. Richard Wieland, Ellsworth. "Think Young" is the theme of the two-day meeting which features as guest speaker - Roger Fleming, secre- tary-treasurer of the American Farm Bureau Federation FotD, Expfllif.ttu, and director of the Washington ofHce. Fleming will speak at 10:00 on the opening session of the camp before leaving on a series of press-relations meetings with newsmen in Concerned with the obvious need for strong agricultural will be Jack Angell who directs the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids areas. spokesmen, Michigan Farm Bureau 'Vomen plan to enlarge radio and television activities for A topic of interest to Farm Bureau Women - traffic their "Speakers Bureau" program, aimed at preparing farm men the American Farm Bureau. An- safety - will be discussed by Corporal Duane A. Smith, gell, a former announcer for one Michigan State Police. SJ!lith will project plans involving and women to face audiences with facts, experience and of the major networks, will assist highway safety, future road building plans, auto insurance confidence. the students in a self-appraisal of Scheduled at Camp Keft for ~farch 10 and 11, the conference and taxes. their recorded speeches. will be designed to make farm leaders better spokesmen for Members of the Michigan Farm "Questions our Youth are Asking" will be discussed by their industry. Bureau Information Division will bio-chemist Leroy Augenstein of t\1ichigan State Univer- Working on the premise that State University radio, \VKAR. A conduct one period on tools, tech- sity. His presentation will be the highlight of the second only farmers can adequately tell communications specialist, Miss niques and home-produced visual day's program. the amazing story of modern agri- ~Iiltgen has long been concerned aids for speakers. Other Michi- Farm Bureau Women are urged to contact representa- culture, the "Understanding and about the "image" of agriculture, gan Farm Bureau staff members tives of urban women's organizations, informing them of Information" (U and I) commit- and is currently involved in a re- will present information on the tee of Farm Bureau 'Vomen' has search project to find the best history, accomplishments and aims the outstanding program, and inviting them to attend. begun to prepare for the task. kind of materials to mm rural peo- of the organization. Total camp "fee" including four meals, lodging, insur- The U and I Committee ("Y all ple in telling their story. A special invitation to attend is ance to and from home, and registration, is $7.50. Camp- and 1" - meaning that informa- At an evening dinner session, extended to members of county ers are asked to bring their own bedding, and to dress tion leads to better understanding the guest will be Leonard Warner, 'Vomen's Committees, Roll Call comfortably. Baby-sitting service is again available with between You and I), under their Press Relations Director of the managers, county Information a registered nurse in charge, and meals for children at chairman, Mrs. George South- American Farm Bureau Federa- Committee members; however, half-price. worth, has set out in 1966 to get tion. \Varner will discuss press any interested Farm Bureau mem- more farm people to speak for relations and the part that "out- ber is welcome. This year's Holiday Committee members are: Mrs. farmers. The Speakers Bureau is spoken" readers play in the forma- Those attending should make Louise Smith, chairman; Mrs. Erma Hornbaker, Mrs. one of a series of activities de- tion of newspaper policy. He will reservations immediately by writ- LaRue Hulbert, Mrs. Margie Austin, Mrs. Betty Rhoda, signed to prepare and inspire also report on farm legislation in ing to: Miss Helen Atwood, Mich- and Mrs. Doris Hahan. farm people to do a better job of his "Potomac Rotindup." igan Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 960, Reservations may be made by sending the attached presenting their story. Using professional tape record- Lansing, Michigan 48904. The coupon to Wesley Woods Camp, Route =It 1, Dowling, "Our biggest problem," says ing equipment, students will have deadline for reservations has been chairman Southworth, "is to give an opportunity to record a short set for Tuesday, March 8. Michigan. Deadline for reservations is April 1. people confidence so that they speech and hear it played back. east of the two-day session, in- will seek opportunities to present Group instructor for this exercise cluding meals and lodging, is $12. the agricultural story. Many of our people can do a much better -RESERVATION REQUEST- ALL ABOARD job of this than they suspect, if Wesley Woods Camp only they would try. There are opportunities for speakers at meet- Route #1 ings of many clubs, churches and Dowling, Michigan other organizations who need pro- Last call for reservations on the annual Farm Bureau Women's Phone: Banfield 721-8295 gram help, and who is more in- Washington Legislative Air Tour, departing Detroit Metro- Please make reservations for the Farm Bureau Women's terested in our welfare than the politan Airport, Sunday, March 13. Holiday, April 6-7. consumer who depends on us for This tour offers an opportunity for farm leaders to watch __ We will attend the entire camp. food?" Congress in session, meet with their Representatives, and __ We will attend Wednesday only. Serving on the committee with visit with staff members of the American Farm Bureau Feder- __ We will stay overnight \Vednesday. Mrs. Southworth are: Mrs. B. H. ation. An added bonus will be an all-day sightseeing tour to ___ We will attend Thursday only. Baker, Merrill; Mrs. Francis such famous places as the \Vhite House, Mount Vernon and Campall, Ada; Mrs. Clare Car- Arlington National Cemetery. Name . _ penter, Cass City; Mrs. Richard Cost per person - $101.57 - includes air transportation Address _ Wieland, Ellsworth, and Mrs. from Detroit to Washington and return, three nights at the Wm. Scramlin, state Women's Willard Hotel, baggage handling, tips, and several meals. County c1U1irman. ------ ------- - --- -~-- ------ Instructions in public speaking Send your reservations and check today to Farm Bureau \Vomen, 4000 N. Grand River Ave., Lansing, Michigan 48904. My urban guest's name _ will be given by Mary Jane MiIt- gen,Women~ EdftorofMkWgan 1~~'~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ MICHIGAN FARM NEWS March 1, 1966 NINE Michigan in Chicago Feature By: Charles H. Bailey "It's a long way and there are many people between the pro- ducer and the final customer:' said cattleman Grover Zettle, after the recent Livestock Market tour sponsored by Michigan Farm Bureau's Market Development department. Zettle was one of thirty cattlemen - and women - who spent three days in the Chicago area studying the involved meat- marketing process. Starting Tuesday, February 9, at the new ultra-modern and highly mechanized packing plant of Swift Packing Company at Rochelle, Illinois, the group followed meat from the farm to the city consumer at a meat counter. At the Swift plant, the \ farm group saw cattle, hogs and sheep processed in a new and .'\ . highly sanitary facility where everything possible is done me- "OUR CUSTOMERS INSIST - on this type of package," Mrs. Stella Miano, Jewel Food Stores, tells the visiting Michiganders. She is the only woman in the Chicago area to successfully complete the three-year apprenticeship for "Journeyman Butcher." chanically and with a maximum of speed. One of the impressive aspects of the plant was the careful checking of each carcass by inspectors assigned through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Another discovery at the Swift plant was that very few an- imals come in these days showing signs of disease .. As one em- ployee at the plant remarked, <~ou should have seen the animals we got when I was a youngster in this business. You farmers have made a big improvement in animals not only in meat quality but in the absence of diseased animals these days. We get. almost none anumore." Back in Chicago for the night, the group had breakfast with ~fylan Ross, secretary-manager of the National Livestock Pro- ducers Association. Ross talked at length about the part co- operative marketing gronps, such as our Michigan Livestock Exchange, play in handling millions of head of cattle, hogs and sheer: sold in America every year . IJ,. _ .. ~- ," t£: ' He suggested that only by being actively in the market "TO SATISFY CUSTOMERS- we must buy choice carcasses," THE ART OF SELLING fresh meats in large quantities is dis- through their own sales-associations, can farmers make sure Jewel Food Store's meat manager, Bert De Lorenzo, tells Bob cussed with touring livestock producers by George Siedel, Oesheger, Huron county, and Harold Aldrich, Calhoun. Jewel Food Store's district store manager. that they get full value for their products. _ At the Union Stockyards later in the moming, the livestock- men visited with vice-president, L. L. Colvis, of the Interstate Livestock Producers Association, a Farm Bureau affiliate lo- cated in Illinois and Iowa. Colvis discussed the contract sales system which Interstate is operating in a trial project in western Illinois. Wednesday afternoon, the "Livestock Caravan" went hunting "real, live consumers." The spot picked was a neighborhood market operated by Jewel Food Stores in the industrial district of west Chicago. Here the group saw highly skilled butchers cut and package beef, pork and lamb carcasses. Next they watched housewives hunt and pick over the elaborate meat display in a huge meat counter. Although the neighborhood around the store was not new or especially attractive, buyers surprised the visitors by selecting b.etter cuts of meat, and buying in large amounts. As the store's meat manager said, "When they have the money, these folks CAREFUL, ACCURATE GRADING assures that buyers get ex- CHECKING THE LATEST PRICES on the commodity market at believe in buying the best meat we have. Price doesn't seem the Chicago Board of Trade are AI Van Aelst, Jr. (left), actly what they order and pay for. This is the basis on which quite as important to them as quality." Oceana county, and Vincent Roggenbuck, Saniloc. the Board of Trade's huge cash grain trade operates. The final day began at breakfast with Dr. Kenneth Hood and Herman Aaberg of the American Farm Bureau marketing staff. They discussed issues facing American farmers. Two of the most important, according to Dr. Hood, are the use of contracts to the benefit of farmers, and loosening the grip of the federal government on the farmer's business. Herman Aaberg, who heads livestock activities for the Farm COMING EVENTS ... SPRING DISTRICT MEETINGS SCHOLARSHIP Bureau, discussed the importance of the disease control and The Michigan Farm Bureau eradication programs both to farmers and consumers. Noting Smells, ... noises ... and surprises! That's what's in store Women's Scholarship Committee that Michigan is in the last stages of a hog cholera eradication for Farm Bureau Women who attend their Spring District meet- reminds members that March 15 program, he told the group that it has cost American farmers ings as they learn "What women