~- MD-CHDGANaFARM NEWS THE ACTION PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU Vol. 48, No. 1 Farmers, Building Tomorrow-Together January 1, 1969 - Vern M. Bullen Photo- MICHIGAN BEEF, APPLES, NEXT? - Farmers and farm workers APPLE PRODUCER, KENNETH BULL-(Ieft) a member of the are making it plain that labor!union control of all food is the Michigan Farm Bureau Board, illustrates the point with displays actual issue behind AFL-CIO grape boycott attempts. So unsuc- of his Red and Golden Delicious apples at the recent American cessful has been unionization of California farm workers that Farm Bureau convention in Kansas City. With him is Jose Men- labor has been trying to build boycott support elsewhere, in- doza, head of the "Freedom To Work" movement, made up of cluding among uninformed Michigan city officials, Church and farm workers who strongly oppose AFL-CIO attempts to forcibly Migrant Ministry leaders. unionize grape pickers. President's F. B. Women Pictorial Discussion ON THE INSIDE: Column Page 2 Reports Page 6 Review Pages 8-9 Topic Pa~e 10 -~ .!. -. , TWO January 1, 1969 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Editorial President's Column IN KANSAS CITY U7ED FALSE ISSUES OF FARM From opening program to closing 1'1 ichigan did lcell ill Ka/lsas City. panel, MAeHINERY THE GRAPE STRIKE! I would like to visit again with you this month By plane and train and private car, our about the so called "California Grape Strike." fanners, (150 of them) flocked to Kansas City, If the issue tCere not deadly serious to farm- ~1issouri, to the annual meeting of the American ers the whole situation tcoldd be lauglwble Fann Bureau Federation. In many ways and on many occasions, ~lich- u.;iih all the efforts being made to convince the public that farmers are money grubbing beasts. igan's impact as a leader among state Fann The facts in the' case have been so misrepre- Bureaus was felt. It began when Michigan's entrant, 28 year-old Johll Nye, was one of six sented that it is no longer funny. finalists in the national Discussion ~leet. As if the mis-statement of fact were not Our lm'ely Queen, Miss Diane Trauer had her enough, we now see people in high places bas- moment in the spotlight on the stage of the ing their actions on these misrepresentations. music-hall, before a crowd of thousands, fol- The latest is the move by the Chainnan of the lowed by a national display of talent in which Board of Trustees of Michigan State University .'1 iss II el Cll II arris of Genessee county earned to stop the food service department of MSU rounds of applause with her appealing song- from buying California grapes. Maybe he has "I want to go back to ~lichigan, down on the a personal conflict of interest - he's employed farm ... " as Educational Director of ~fichigan AFL-CIO: 1n mcanl ccrcmonics, thc iH ichigan Farm Now we understand his reasons but we are Burcau and four of its programs lcas singled a little surprised that the chairman of the Board out for a rare "Four Star" Glcard, bascd first of of Trustees at one of America's maior universi- all on a mcmbership gain ouer the previous ties tCould become involved in a $75 a week ycar. Starred program arcas included Informa- controversy, ~fSU's normal weekly grape order. t ion, '" a men's lCa I'k , You n g F a I'm e rsan d Although the season for harvesting grapes is JIAC1HA-lHarketing. over, the arguments seem destined to continue Marketing programs were emphasized \\ .. AND ANOTHER THING, YOU DON'T HAVE TO WORRY all winter. Maybe it would be well to review throughout the convention with ~lichigan in the ABOUT IT DEPRECIATING IN THE NEW YEAR." a few of the facts about the whole affair. forefront on at least three other occasions. In The only reported strike this year, and there the Organization ~leeting, where Michigan was is some doubt of it's validity, has been against honored for a gain of 1,013 members over the Giumarra Vineyards Corporation of Delano, previous year, a special visual presentation fea~ tured two ~1ichigan farnlers, Edgar Austin, Production Specialists California. The boycott was called against fornia grapes to get Ciumarra. and care ' President of the Van Buren county Farm Bu- disregarded the interests of some 3000 Today's farmer is a true "production specialist" ... and reau, and Frances I-/Gldey, President of Oceana. growers who were not involved. The bla 111 {cords and color slides, both men told of one of his prime problems is to find and keep the farm boycott of all California grapes has done h the ualue of Farm Burcau's marketing pro- labor he needs. to the markets of these non-involved fa grams, citing actual instanccs of price increases ~'lechanization has solved only part of the problem, but and they were helpless to prevent it. brought about in grapcs, apples and asparagus ~'1any of these growers are immigrant families there are some farm jobs that will never be mechanized, as a direct result of MACMA marketing. who by thrift and hard work finally broke. out In the finals of the Discussion Meet, John and regardless, big, new, complicated farm machines re- of the migrant stream which the present. boycott i\ ye again hit at the marketing theme - "Get quire skilled operators. is supposed to help. The question they probably in your Farm Bureau marketing program and To help solve farm labor problems - the Michigan Agri- are asking just now is, "'Vho needs such stick with it" he said: . ~lore complex market- cultural Services Association (MASA) was formed as an friends?" \ ing procedures call for better production meth- affiliate of the Michigan Farm Bureau. It's unfortunate that the true reason for the ods and the fanner must know exact costs to strike and boycott have not been spelled out properly compute a profit margin. He said One little known (so far) but prime service, has been clearly for the public to see. It is spelled that electronic data processing of fann records a Labor ~1anagement Newsletter, providing inside infor- M-O-N-E-Y for labor unions. "Vith industrial is a large part of the answer. mation to members on a subscription basis. For a minimal organizational efforts slowed down, farm labor 11is eloquencc brought rounds of applause cost ($1. membership fee, $10. yearly subscription rate looked like easy pickings. and the a1l1WllllCement that he had placed first The ultimate income to the unions could be in the National Discussion 1'1 eet contest! - $11. total) the recipient is assured a flow of fads and At a leadership luncheon, ~1ichigan Fann seu,!ral millions.. a year, maybe as much as $40- late information pertinent to hiring policies, contract ar- $50 millions nationally. Where we in Michigan Bureau board member, i\ick Smith (District 2) nmgemcnts, labor law interpretations (as they affect farm- Farm Bureau pay $20 yearly in dues, the farm made an impressive appearance in a plea for ers) hearing results and changing farm labor law require- workers who join in California ~re expected to more involvement in local Farm Bureau pro- men~ .. pay $3.50 a month when they are employed. grams and improved marketing methods. For full time workers this is $42 per year. In the Press Boom, two beautiful boxes of Some provisions of new laws affect farmers even if they ~1ichigan apples arrived from the Bull Brothers Since they couldn't sign up the workers di- only hire occasional labor, and the flow of condensed rectly, the unions are out to force workers in Orchards, Bailey" ~lich. (see cover) - to the material dealing with farm-labor management can be- a through the closed shop. They are trying to delight of newsmen there. ~lichigan Farnl Bu- reau's Infonnation Division worked as the tele- vital management tool to any farmer. force farmers to require union membership of vision arm of the American Farm Bureau laborers for the privilege of working. Hecent letters have covered \Vorkman's Compensation, throughout the convention, with the crew pro- One inevitable result of the current boycott farm workers health care, unionization of farm workers, is the financial damage to small, independent ducing 53 sound-and-color filmed news clips, for a combined footage of 8,000 feet, distrib- minimum wage regulations, and taxes and fringe henefits. farmers - average table grape acreage in Cali- uted to television stations at their request, in fornia is just over 31 acres. all parts of the United States. To subscribe, write: t\lichigan Agricultural Services If the b~ycott is allowed to go indefinitely it At one stage the Infonnation crew worked Box 960, Lansing, Michigan could very well cause the consolidation of the with Jose Mendoza, astute leader of the "Free- sm~ller grape acreages into the big corpo~ations dom to "'ork" movement, made up of farm w}~lch ha~e. the means of dealing with large workers who actively oppose the unionization ~. l1l110ns. 1 hls could he the aim of some of of California vineyards by Cezar Chavez and MICHIGAN • FARM NEWS tho~e pllshin.g the effort, some suggest it i's his AFL-CIO professionals. THI! ACT/ON PUaLlCATlON O~ THI! MICHIGAN ~ARM aURI!AU ?asl.e: for umons to organize corporations than In {caming all of agriculture that the union The MICHIGAN FARM NEWS is DIRECI'ORS: District I, Harry 1I1chvldually owned businesses. published monthly, on the first day, Nye. St. Joseph, R-I; District 2, Nich- organi::.ers do not intend to' stop {dth grapes, by the MichiA:an Fann Bureau, at its olas Smith, Addison, R-l; District 3, One of the unanswered questions of the iHendo::.a said: "It's pOlcer they're after! They publication office at 109 N. Lafayette Street, Greenville, Michigan. Andrew Jackson, Howell, R-I; Dis- struggle has been how do we guarantee these trict 4. Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, R-l; lC(mt to Olcn the lcorldf" Editorial and A:eneml offices at 4000 District 5. David Morris, Grand Ledge. wo~kers a year around wage? This IS one of North Grand River Avenue, Lansin~, To some delegates, the appearance of AFL- Michi~an 48904. Post Office Box 960. R-3; District 6, Jack Laurie, Cass City, thelr announced aims. How do you compute Telephone, Lansin~ 485-8121. Exten- R-3; District 7, Kenneth Bull, Bailey, CIa pickets outside the convention hall brought sion 317. Subscription price, 50te per R-I; District 8, Harvey Leuenberger, s!\ch .salary for a housewife who picks grapes year. Sa~inw, R-6; District 9, Eu~ene Rob- home the full meaning of what ~lendoza was Established January 12, 1923. Sec- erts. Lake City. R-l; District 10. for SIX weeks to get Christmas money? How saying inside. ~luttered one ~lichigan dele- ond Class Postage paid at Greenville, Richard Wieland, Ellsworth, R-I; Dis- do you profitahly employ harvest lahor on \ a Michigan. trict II, Cla)'ton Ford, Cornell. gate: "Our number-one joh is to organize our- EDITORIAL: Editor, Melvin L. year around hasis, when the season lasts, only 'Woell; Associate Editor, Vem M. Bul- DIRECI'ORS AT LARGE: Walter four months? seh-es better than e\'er before - through our len; Advertising Manager. Carl P. Frahm. Frankenmuth; Dean Pridgeon, Kentner; Staff Artist, Rodney Parks. Montgomery, R-I; Calvin Lutz. Kaleva . OlCl1 farm organization ... " . Basically tlU' question becomes, are>tce more OFFICERS: Michi~an Fann Bu- To anyonc {catching the JI ichigan group in reau; President, Elton R. Smith, Cale- WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. Jerold Topliff. Enton Rapids. R-l; ~1I!ereste>din the>suruifjal of the small farmer or donia, R-I; Vice President, Dean Kallsas City, it lcas olJl;ious that most felt their Pri~eon, Mont~omery, R-I; Secretary- FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS: 111 (~dde>(~ pOICNS for union leadership? If the> Manlter, Dan E. Reed. Lansing. Lawrence Karsten. Ro~ers City. immediate challenge lcas to go home to build, . '-. C(/lt~oml([. boycott is indicative of the tcay tlte fi1Ul1Ice (lnd lcork through Fal'm Bureau (IS POSTMASTER: In using form 3579, mail to: Michigan Farm News. 4000 N. S!!st( 111 lerll {cork, the !lCO cannot livc side hll Grand River, Lansing Michigan 48904 HCuer before. sule for long .. Second class postage paid at Greenville, Michigan ~f.'V. Elton Smith MICHIGAN FARM NEWS January 1, 1969 THREE PUBLIC ADVISED: Boycott Bunk, Not Grapes \\THERE IS NO GRAPE STRIKE"- reports Jose Mendoza, head of A \\BEEF-IN" DEMONSTRATION - is staged by Kansas Beef Growers in front of the Kansas City the California agricultural workers freedom-to-work movement. Auditoriu~, to protest the action of Mayor Davis and the City Council in supporting a consumer A featured speaker at the American Farm Bureau annual meet- boycott of California table grapes. The Farm Bureau leaders made the point that should labor ing, Mendoza told the huge audience that the AFl-CIO has unions become successful in preventing the sale of a farm product nationwide - all farm prod- created a false issue in a bid for power. ucts and all consumers would soon become potential prey for the union organizers. GRAPES TODAY-BEEF TOMORROW? KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI- ing of the American Farm Bureau tactics. Farmers from all parts of the Federation was underway, Cali- Inside the Auditorium, those United States (some 5,000 of fornia farm women were prepar- tactics were being described by them) producing every conceiv- ing hundreds of pounds of fresh Mendoza - in person, guest able farm commodity, have acute- California grapes to be passed out speaker on the general session ly examined the issue of an at- to delegates when they left the program of the American Farm tempted nationwide boycott of general session. \\lith each carton Bureau Federation. Mendoza California table grapes. of grapes was placed a small box said that those who opposed the The fact that a vast majority of raisins and a leaflet titled union "had windows broken, of them have never seen a vine- "Don't be Eooled, there is NO busted up radiators, flat tires, ~ yard of California table grapes Grape Strike". The leaflet told of burned busses and trucks ... " did not blind their eyes to the a rally among grape pickers in He concluded: "If these people fact that what could happen to protest to the actions by the are successful with grapes they grape farmers could happen to United Farm \Vorkers Organizing will work on oranges, and move them in apples, soyqeans, sugar- Committee (AFL-CIO) in harass- into potatoes - apples and beef beets, potatoes or prime beef. ing workers and growers. Their understanding was sharp- "More than 2,500 farm work- Later, as the delegates broke ened by AFL-CIO "pickets"- ers gathered forces in Delano to up for afternoon sessions, they scruffy looking people hired to challenge the leadership of Cesar passed by signs declaring "Boy- agitate among the farmer-dele- Chavez and his committee" the cott Bunk, not Grapes!" - and in gates, most of whom treated the leaflet stated, adding that they front of the auditorium a 700 union representatives with mild heard from Jose Mendoza, gen- pound Hereford heifer was stares of disbelief, and politely eral secretary of the Freedom-to- walked back and forth in a coun- CALIFORNIA GRAPES - in plastic buckets, were handed dele- stepped around them. \Vork" movement ... who urged ter-picket fashion, carrying a sad- gates .and guests by California Farm Bureau Women in Kansas Inside the huge convention their resisfance to what had be- dle-style sign proclaiming "Grapes City. leaflets and small boxes of raisins accompanied the grapes. hall where the 49th annual meet- come hard-core union pressure today - Beef Tomorrow!" "green card" workers who have a In the field were crews which GRAPE GROWER TELLS TRUTH ... legitimate right to work any place in the United States for five years had about one woman out of six workers, often a wife with her under federal immigration laws. husband. The picketing which From the Lansing State Journal, December 13, 1968 Despite his irritation at what Pandol's base pay is $1.40 an hour marked the fields during the first he feels has been a misleading of and $1.50 an hour. The lower two years has almost completely DELANO, Calif. (UPI) - Jack area are paid more than other the American people by Chavez's Pandol moved to Delano in 1941 farm workers in California who figure is paid to men who live in disappeared but the workers are tactics, Pandol is optimistic that still leery of strangers. when he was 18 and his father, an in turn are above the national camps furnished by the Pandols, he and other growers will come immigrant from Yugoslavia, that average. A man can make $150- get transportation to work and One woman said she drove 50 through the boycott even stronger. year put down the first grape 200 in a week. receive three meals a day for miles to work in the Pandol fields o 0 0 vines that now spread over 1,000 - The image of squalid hous- $1.80. The $1.50 goes to persons since the vineyards where she acres. ing and intolerable field condi- During the period up to Sept. living away from the camps. previously worked had been or- Pandol and his two brothers at tions for workers is false. 25 of this year, Pandol says, his ganized by the UF\VOC. She There is also a piecework in- the peak of the season employ - Agriculture - and particu- vineyard has shipped more than said she didn't want to join the centive system whereby a worker 300-325 workers to harvest the 17ulygrapes - is an area that can- 200,000 boxes of grapes com- Chavez union - "it's no good:' gets approximately 17 cents for grapes. The Pandols would be not be unionized like industry. pared to 70,000 at that time last 000 each box of grapes picked and ranked near the top in production "Grapes spoil, steel doesn't." year. One reason, he concedes, A truck loader said he didn't packed. An average worker, he among the UP grape "ranches" - Chavez and his union have was last year's poor crop. says, can pack at least four boxes want to be put on a base pay- in the San Joaquin Valley which been repudiated by the majority Despite boycotts in more than an hour for a wage of $2.18 and that he wanted incentive bonuses range from 40 acres upwards. of the workers in the Delano area a dozen major cities and particu- a top worker can pack six. The where he could make according Now 45, Pandol is an outgoing and Pandol is not going to force larly in New York, Boston and national minimum hourly wage to how hard he worked. and articulate man who thinks he his workers to join the union. Detroit, prices have held up, Pan- for industry is $1.60. The man said that despite the and other growers have been get- - The UFWOC doesn't care if dol says. \Veaknesses can be at- ting a one-sided deal in the pub- it mins (and eliminates jobs in) tributed to the bigger supply this Pandol showed UPI reportel .. rhavez claim to non-violence, a lic's knowledge of the facts behind the table grape industry which year. around his vineyards. In one fire bomb had been thrown at his the attempted nati~nal boycott has seen per capita consumption 000 camp for single men there were house and he had moved his chil- of California table grapes organ- drop from 11 pounds in the 1940s There has been no difficultv dormitories resembling army bar- dren to a sister's place in San ized by the United Farm \Vorkers to four pounds in the 1960s. getting sufficient workers any ~f racks of World 'Var II vintage, a Diego. Organizing Committee led by - Chavez has welcomed every the three vears since the strike well swept mess-hall with a full- Asked about the Chavez claim Cesar Chavez. extremist group from the Black was called'in 1965. A large per- time cook. In one recreation area that he represents 17,000 farm o • 0 Panthers to the Du Bois Clubs to centage of those now working for there was a color TV. Many of workers in California, the man Here are points he makes: Stokeley Cannichael to the Yip- him are residents of the area the men were driving cars of said the figure was closer to 400 - Grape pickers in the Delano pies. while those here from Mexico are fairly recent make. or 5()O. FOUR January 1, 1969 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS IABOUT stickiAg together . • • Standing alone, you have little chance of being successful in the world's toughest business - farming. For A few dollars in membership fees, .Michigan Farm Bureau can, through grbup action provide you with a united voice in the Legislature and Congress - marketing and technological services - farm supplies - petroleum i supplies - insurance protection - and assist in farm labor problems. Another reward of an eligible Farm Bureau membership is the opportunity to enroll in Blue Cross - Blue Shield- to provide you and your family with a high level of health care protection benefits. Rapidly rising hospital-medical costs makes it impracti- cal to provide yourself with non-group coverages. Cover- ages through a group provides you with greater benefits at a lesser cost. Sticking together is an old farming habit. Renew your membership in Farm Bureau not later than January 15, 1969 and retain your eligibility for group Blue Cross - Blue STATE REPRESENTATIVES- including Vice President, Dean Pridgeon of the Michigan Farm Bu- Shield benefits, as well as strengthening your place in the reau, marched into the Kansas City auditorium during the American Farm Bureau annual meet- ing, carrying state signs which when reversed spelled an acceptance of the challenge to reach economy. \\Golden Goals (membership) in our Golden Year". The 1969 AFBF goal nears the 2,000,000 mark at 1,809,509 Farm Bureau families. MEMBERSHIP NOW IS AHEAD OF YEAR AGO J I AM ONLY ONE (This poem was recited by Harold Sponberg, President of Eastern Michigan University at the recent Michigan Farm It is Farm Bureau membership renewal time in Michigan, Kent, 62%; Lapeer, 69%; Len- Ottawa, 58%; Presque Isle, 48%; 8ureau Institute, Lansing.) with 14 county Farm Bureaus from all parts of the state already awee, 57 %; Livingston, 57 %; Saginaw, 66%; Sanilac, 61%; reporting their 1969 membership at 70 or more per cent of goal. Mac.-Luce, 72%; Macomb, 62%; Shiawassee, 65%; St. Clair, 59%; I am only one; Manistee, 60 %; Marq-Alger, St. Joseph, 64 %; Tuscola, 77 %; But I am one. Two counties, Tuscola and Antrim are nearing the 80 per 63 %; Mason, 59 %; Mecosta, Van Buren, 69%; \"lashtenaw, cent mark ... with Antrim at 79 per cent, and Tuscola at 77. I cannot do everything 56%; Menominee, 51 %; Midland 60%; \"layne, 69% and Wexford, The Kalkaska Farm Bureau has an even 70 per cent of 1969 - unreported; Missaukee, 59%; 72%. But I can do something. goal at this writing, with Barry, Clare and Muskegon at 71. Monroe, 51%; Montcalm, 62%; Usually such reported' figures What I can do, I ought to do: Mackinac-Luce, Cheboygan and \Vexford are all at the 72 per Montmorency, 59%; Muskegon, Jag substantially behind actual cent mark, with Clinton, Gratiot and Isabella one point higher 71%; Newaygo, 53%; Northwest membership results already se- And what I ought to do, at 73. Both Benzie and Northwest ~lichigan are at 74 per Mich. 74%; Oakland, 52%; Oce- cured in county offices, but which By the grace of God, cent of goal. ana, 64% and Ogemaw, 61 %. remain unreported in. the over-all I will do. Osceola, 65 %; Otsego, 48 %; state compilation. - Author Unknown The state as a whole has already climbed to 62 per cent of the 1969 Farm Bureau membership goal, with 33,349 members reported to Farm Bureau Center, Lansing - 575 new members among them. Most new members have been given in Kansas City for outstand- reported by Saginaw county, with ing ~fACMA-~larketing, Informa- 38, followed by Shiawassee with tion, Farm Bureau "'omen and SALTS 24, Isabella with 22, ~Iacomb and Yollng Farmer programs. \"lith Calhoun with 21 new members prize-winning programs such as each. these, there is little reason for any farmer not to belong to Farm Accordin~ to Larry Ewing, Bureau in Michigan. Manager of the Field Services Di- "This is the time of year when vision of the Michigan Farm you can help yourself, all of agri- Bureau, this represents a substan- culture and your Fann Bureau tial increase in memberships over hy not only paying your dues- New Protection for Your Livestock last year at the same date and is but by volunteerin~ to sign up a "an indication that Fann Bureau non-member neighbor," Ewing TRACE MINERAL SALT is meeting the needs of members said. FOOT ROT SALT FARM BUREAU MINERALS in Michigan." Farm Bureau Trace Mineral Salt He noted the current "Funny Economical-yes, because Hardy C.omplete mineral supplements pro- "People like to belong to a helps keep your livestock healthy Money" campaign now being con- and productive at low cost. Provides gives you protection from foot rot VIde economy and dependability. growing and successful organiza- all six essential trace minerals in problems. Feed it safely to all Choose from either 6% 8% or ducted bv countv Farm Bureaus tion and this growth gives every complete salt mix. Feed free choice classes of livestock, even cows in 12% Phosphorus levels. "'Contr~lIed in which' a syste~ of "script" has for self controlled intake, or ask membership more strength". milk production. Also provides daily intake" for free choice feed- been designed to add interest (and to have it mixed in your feeds. ing takes the worry out of mineral Ewing indicated that the boost valuable prizes) to local member- Guarantees consumption and im- salt and all the necessary trace feeding, salt guarantees proper in members already signed would ship work. The campaigns will proves appetite for top feeding mineral requirements. Available in results. levels. Ask for it mixed in your be a favorable factor in helping climax in March at "auctions" and bags or blocks. customized feeds, too! Roll Call volunteers sign non- Victory parties where the bogus member neighbors in the current bucks will be used as part of the drive. evening's fun. He noted the enthusiastic group County membership standin~s of connty membership campaign --in terms of per cent of 1969 Chairmen from Michigan counties ~oal already achieved as of the who recently attended the annual latter part of December include: meeting of the American Farm ALLEGAN CO-OP FARM BUREAU SERVICES INC Alcona, 67%; Allegan 33%; Al- Allegan, Michigan MOLINE CO.OP Hart, Michigan ,. Bureau Federation in Kansas City, pena, 64 ~; Antrim, 79 %; Ar- Moline, MiChigan and the "lift" they received there enac, 49c;,; Baraga, 41%; Barry, BUCHANAN CO.OP FARM BUREAU SERVICES INC in learn,ing that Farm Bureau in Buchanan, MiChigan Kalamazoo, Michigan ' • SQUARE DEAL FARM SUPPLY 71e;;; Bav, 62C{.; Benzie, 74%; Onekama, Michigan the United States had reached Berrien, 6'5%; Branch, 58cf,.; Cal- FARMERS ELEVATOR KENT CITY FARM BUREAU an all-time membership high of houn, 68% and Cass, 65%. Caledonia, Michigan Kent City, Michigan FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC. 1,796,641 member families. Saginaw, Michigan Others reported include: Char- COOPERSVILLE CO-OP Ewing reported "One Manager levoix, 53c;; Cheboygan, 72%; MARCELLUS FARM BUREAU Coopersville, Michigan Marcellus, Michigan FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC. said 'those who think farmers Chippewa, 63 c;,; Clare, 71 %; Scottville, MiChigan haven't learned to work together Clinton, 73 c~; Delta, 62 c~; Eat- FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC. Fremont, MiChigan FALMOUTH CO.OP COMPANY should be at this meeting - just on, 54c; ; Emmet. 65~; Genesee, McBain, Michigan FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC. think, fanners in 2798 counties in Traverse City, Michigan 59 c;; Gladwin, 51 %; Gratiot, FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC. 49 states and Puerto Rico, all 73c;; Hillsdale, 52C;;.; Houghton, Hasting, Michigan FALMOUTH CO-OP COMPANY working together for a better Merritt, MiChigan 54 c;.; Huron, 67 %; Ingham. farming future .... " .57d,-., Ionia, 67 c;; Iosco, 51 c~ ; Ewing continued: "The ~Iich- igan Farm Bureau was recognized Iron. 66~; Isabella, 73c;.; Jack- son. 64 c;; Kalamazoo, 65 %; and HARDY SALT COMPANY Leaders in Product Development for serving members with awards Kalkaska, 70 %. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS January 1, 1969 FIVE DEDICATED TOWARD " lEADERSHlpAND SERVICE" ., Service Affiliates Hold- Joi.nt Annuals Alichigan Congressman Guy Vander Jagt (R-Cadillac) who stirred Congress last year as a Freshman Representa- tive by introducing a major farm bill which he said would "return farming to farmers" was warmly received as guest speaker at the joint annual 1neeting of Farm Bureau Serv- ices and Farmers Petroleum, Cooperative in early December. Vander Jagt's appearance at the December 4th, banquet program concluded a three-day product show and business meeting which brought hundreds of farn1er-stockholders to the Lansing Civic Center. There, in the huge exhibit hall, dozens of dealers displayed the many quality products of- fered farmers of Michigan through the Farm Bureau supply affiliates. Reports from management, officers and staff were heard, beginning with a statement by Farm Bureau Services Pres- ident, Elton Smith. Others heard were Farmer's Petroleum president, Carl Heisler; a number of Farm Bureau Services Department heads and W m. Guthrie, Manager of Farm Bu- reau Services and Farmers Petroleum. Weather was near-perfect, as record numbers of farmers fr~m all parts of Michigan flocked to the product show and annual meeting. They saw an impressive array of new farm OFFICIALS VISIT - prior to Farm Bureau Services - FPC joint banquet program, with Congress- man Guy Vander Jagt, (center) who praised the Farm Bureau affiliates for their leadership in production aids ranging from hand-tools to major pieces of providing quality farm supplies to Michigan farmers. To the left is Wm. Guthrie, General Man- spraying and spreading equipment. They enjoyed compli- ager of the companies, while Michigan Farm Bureau (and Services') President, Elton Smith, is to mentary luncheons and were obviously pleased .by manage- the right. ment reports revealing sound growth for Services and FPC in the past year. In his talk before the evening banquet crowd, Congress- man Vander Jagt listed agriculture as among the top four issues facing the nation and the new Congress. Ahead of national farm problems he placed the Viet Nam war, "fiscal responsibility" and the broad areas of Law and Order. Concerning the war, he said "We must resolve this conflict which now has involved 550,000 of Ollr boys and millions of dollars every month. It must be done honorably and quickly .... " Speaking of the nation's 27 billion dollar budget deficit, - Vander Jagt said that it brought with it a yearly interest cost of 15 billion dollars. "The interest alone takes all of the income taxes paid by the bottom two-thirds of our pop- ulation" he said. In hitting at the rising crin1e rate, Vander Jagt cited statis- tics showing that our crime rate has increased 8 times faster than our population, making America "The most lawless nation in "\Vestern civilization .... " He told the Farm Bureau cooperative group that legisla- tion has created as many farm problems as it has solved, including an enormously expensive bureaucratic monstro- sity. "]' m a firm supporter of the idea that we let farmers decide their own destiny, and do it through their own I organizations and service groups." I He had praise for the annual meeting theme "Leadership CROWDS WERE EVERYWHERE- at Farm Bureau Services and FPC new-product show in the lansing Civic Center. Over 70 product displays were staffed by experts to explain advance- and Service" and said that farmers must help themselves techniques and new products to record crowds. Advantages of early deliver of Special Corn through their own efforts. Storter Fertilizer was the subject at the time this picture was taken. Mark waters was a Chain smOker. FARM NEWS WANT-ADS Mrs. Dorothy Kramer, chairman of District 2, Farm Bu- Wonder Who'll reau Women, and her, committee, are promising all Farm get hiS Onice? GET RESULTS! Bureau Women an interesting and worthwhile two days at Wesley Woods Methodist Camp the latter part of March, Mark kept hearing the same thing everyone does about lung cancer 1969. March 1969 may sound like a long way into the future, but "when winter comes, can spring be far behind?" but kept on smoking cigarettes. (Special Member Rate) Probably thought: "been smoking Mrs. Kramer and her committee, representatives of Branch, Calhoun, Hillsdale, Jackson and Lenawee counties all my life ... won't help to stop." No matter how long you've 25 Words for $2.00 (all in District 2) and Mrs. Louise Smith, Kalam~o smoked, the risk of lung cancer county, have lined up some not-only-educational but fun decreases when you stop, pro- subjects and demonstrations for the days of March 26-27. vided cancer or emphysema Send to: Michigan Farm News Cost will he $7.75 for 2 days, one overnight and regis- have not developed. tration. All Farm Bureau women are invited to attend., Next time you reach Box 960 for a cigarette, More details will be printed in the Farm News later. think of your office- Lansi1zg, In the meantime, all Farm Bureau 'Vomen are urged to reserve these two days for the Farm Bureau 'Vomen's Holi- and your home. Michigan 48904 day Camp. ,American cancer Sociely @ THIS SPACE CONTRIBUTED BY THE PUBLISHER SIX January 1, 1969 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS -time to-go to vvork again! By: Mrs. Jerold (Maxine) Topliff MFB Women's Committee Chainnan Should Old Acquaintance be a daughter who does, encourage Forgot? Goodness no! A Happy her to enter. The contests will be New Year to each of you, may in the counties and possibly in your workd-for dreams come true! the district, with the one winner true! of the county coming to the an- Christmas is over, the decora- nual FE women's meeting in Nov. tions are put away and it's time 1969 either modeling or display- to get back to work again. It's ing her project as the case may be. Roll Call time, Farm Bureau state As you set tip your programs women's committee meeting time, this year, remember your FB time to start our sewing contest, policy book, there arc many poli- and time to plan our program of cies you can work on with your work for the year. county Farm Bureau, check with 'Membership is required if we the county board to see where are to have any organized group they would like you to start. and this is true of Farm Bureau. Many of our counties have local It was a great feeling to be a win- affairs that need a push from ning state this year at AFBF. someone, maybe you can work vVhy did we win? 'Ve won be- on this too. cause of a gain in membership. A few highlights from the 'Ve have known we had a good AFEF convention in Kansas City; program going in ~lichigan, but the Vesper Service opening the because our membership hasn't convention was a real inspiration. shown an increase in several The Vernon Brothers, ( four of years we haven't been eligible to them) sang and each one gave a enter any of the competitions. short inspir~tional message, they This last year was a "gain" year were joined in song by their and we won in four categories; wives. Each of the four is a min- Young Farmer program, Women's ister and their wives are trained program, Information program in music. This was followed by and MAC M A-M arketing. It's the candlelighting ceremony, the great to. be a winner. Ladies, combination making an effective please volunteer your services to opening for the convention. your Roll Call manager, remem- ber they are busy people too, who At the business session of the give a lot of time and work to FB women, Mrs. Haven Smith make a successful camapign. One was reelected. Chairman, and Mrs. 'Vi!liam \Vilkie was reelected vice MONEY CERTIFICATES- for outstanding county Farm Bureau Women's programs are presented state already had made goal at by state Coordinator, Helen Atwood to: (left to right) Mrs. Ellen Burnell, Presque Isle; Claudine the AFBF convention, let's put chairman. The western region and the northeast region each Jackson, livingston; Marie Postma, Chippewa; Mrs. Elsie Smith, Wexford; lillian Wonsey, Isa- Michigan at the top too. elected a new regional chairman. bella; - Miss Atwood; Margaret Boyne, Tuscola and Esther Semans, Shiawassee. The awards Your state program planning were given at the Michigan Farm Bureau. annual meeting. committee is meeting now as well The southern region and the mid- west region chairmen were not .... _ as the state women's committee. up for election this year. If you have some specific pro- gram you would like your dis- trict chairman to provide, she will We had a very good workshop the last day helping us all to be ~ r-IW~~" •• -rJ.-._. __.- A~""""ft~h---#'9--- be happy to come to your county more effective in our women's program. When we are better .-.:::J'~4. ~~M" ~~~ _ once a year for a program. I too, will be glad to help whenever informed then we can all work possible, and you know Helen At- together for "Progress Thru Par- ticipation" in 1969. KANSAS CITY ACTION REPORT need for progress and more un- wood is always glad to work with derstanding and increased effec- you. One more thing. Let's all buy By: Miss Helen Atwood tiveness. They presented a pro- A few words on our sewing con- California Grapes and help our "Farm Bureau women have the gram of work for 1969 with the also encouraged Farm Bureau test, new this year. We want any fellow farmers to defeat this sense- responsibility to do everything we theme "Progress through Partici- women "to make the best use of of vou who are Farm Bureau less boycott. If your .grocer can to help achieve once again pation". They encourage state the opportunity to build friend- me~bers who sew, knit or em- doesn't stock California grapes, a stable law-abiding society in our and county women's committees ship and goodwill by working broider to contact vour county find another and help yourself by country." These were words of to involve the women of the with the 6% million members of chairman for the details. If you keeping freedom in the market advice from Mrs. Haven Smith, 1,796,641 Farm Bureau families the Associated Country Women do none of these things, but have place! Chairman of the American Farm in some phase of the projects and of the World, a world organiza- Bureau "'omen's Committee at tion of rural women." programs which help to achieve the recent annual meeting of Voting delegates from all mem- their goals in life. WASHINGTON SEMINAR Farm Bureau women in Kansas City. She encouraged women to develop new programs to do some- ber State Farm Bureaus to the annual meeting of the American Some of the projects suggested for action in the area of local !\farch 17.18.19-20 are dates for the \\'ashin~ton Sem- Farm Bureau women re-elected affairs include the developing of inar, the annual "air-adventure" to the nation's capital, thing about restoring a respect Mrs. Haven Smith of Chappell, policies through Farm Bureau for law and order in the homes, Nebraska, chairman of the Amer- and carying out of projects which sponsored by Farm Bureau "'omen. local communiti{!s and cities. ican Farm Bureau 'Vomen's Com- would help get clean water, pure Reservations are now being accepted for the jet flight In her annual address to Farm mittee. He-elected as national air. attractive countrysides, health which will again involve two groups - designated Legis- Bureau women from 49 states, Vice Chairman is Mrs. William and safety projects. lative Leaders, and Seminar Participants, hoth of whom ~lrs. Smith emphasized the need Willkie of "'idener, Arkansas. A second program suggestion will join in a group breakfast prior to a full day of sight- of talking about what's right with Newly elected members to the made is to encourage Farm Bu- seeing March 18. On separate occasions, hoth groups will the United States and developing AFB \Vomen's Committee are reau women to help inform mem- be briefed concerning current actions of Congress and in ourselves and those around us Mrs. James Bigelow of ~1aryland, bers of the goals and policies of will visit the Capitol for a period of time. an understand and apprecia- who will represent the Northeast the organization, to tell the farm- The $127. price for the complete tour includes jet air tion of America. The people of region, and Mrs. Alhert 'Vilson ers' and ranchers' storv to the fare, bus and baggage transfer, hotel 3 nights in \\'ash- our country voluntarily gave 14 of Emmett, Idaho, who will repre- public, and to work with. other or- ington, group breakfast and luncheon and guided sight- million dollars to worthy causes, sent the western region. Each of ganizations that have the samt seein~. The air-adventure is open to all Farm Bureau more than 50 million Americans these women will serve a two-year basic beliefs as farm families. donate time to charitv more term. Retiring members of this members and friends. Also suggested for action are Americans are spendil;g their committee are Mrs. David I/olt of new programs emphasizing re- money on skiing, camping, sail- Pennsylvania. and Mrs. Van Ness speet for law and order. More PLEASE RESERVE AIR-SPACE FOR THE ing. and such family activities, 'Vallentine of Utah who did not and 45 per cent of liS attend women are needed and encour- run for re-election. aged to participate in the mem- chmch, ~lrs. Smith said. WASHINGTON SEMINAR Others who make up the na- bership activities of Farm Bureau, She also emphasized that uwe tional committee are Mrs. J. S. national and state legislative af- • Sponsored by Farm Bureau Women mllst give the best of informed Van '~('Tt of Imv.a, representing fairs, political education. and mar- March 17-18.19-20 minds and understanding hearts the midwest regIon; and Mrs. keting and other economic to help our country determine its C1U'strorSmith of Oklahoma, rep- services provided through this role ill moving mankind toward resentmg the southern region. FOR : . or~anization. peace." She suggested that one Farm Bureau leaders know that This program of work proposed way to help do this is by shldy- where women are active in the ADDRESS: . ing the world's problems. uOllr hy Farm Bureau women is pre- loeal Farm Bureau, there one sented to serve as guidelines to (Billing at $127. per person will be made later) government will come up with ~in?s ,:1 vigorous, Send to: Information Division, Michigan Farm Bureau better answers if we have more ~olllg organization. aggressive. Members help all national, state and cormly women's leaders to coordinate " Box 960, Lansing, Mich. knowledge and understanding of of the, American Farm Bureau their efforts to make progress ------------------------------- J the - prablems", she stated. She Women s Committee realize the 1969... MICHIGAN FARM NEWS January 1, 1969 SEVEN WHAT IS A FARMER? In all business there are no other men iust like farmers. Farmers are a diminishing class of specialists that do many things well. They come in all sizes, shapes, colors and ages. A fanner is an eternal optimist who expects that the next year will bring better conditions than the floods or droughts or freezes or insect infestations he may have endured every year in the past. A farmer can ke~p a $5,000 machine working with a piece of baling wire, an off-size bolt and the lid from an old tin can. Farmers don't belong to unions, don't "have 40-hour MICHIGAN'S QUEEN - Miss Diane Traver (left) is pictured on-stage in Kansas City, Missouri, work weeks, don't need sleepjng pills and don't like neck where she represented the Michigan Farm Bureau at the recent annual meeting of the Amer- ties or fast talkers. ican Farm Bureau Federation. Each girl won an all-expense trip to the convention from her Farmers witness the miracle of birth and the certaintY state Farm Bureau organization - all were introduced to the huge convention crowd. of death and sense an order behind it all. Farmers are men who teach their sons and daughters responsibility and workmanship before the youngsters Michigan Young Farmer Appointed move to the city and go to work in industry. Farmers see the sunrise and walk along under the stars, Farmers' program came during they are strengthened by faith in a higher being. to National Group! Mike's tenure as state chairman. Larry Karsten, dairym~n from Farmers are patience in overalls waiting for the rain to stop, for seeds to sprout or for a calf to be born. Farmers are practical family men that are sincere and Charles B. Shuman, President Satchell will be assisting with this Rogers City in Presque Isle coun- of the American Farm Bureau natural and don't try to appear as something they are not. conference. ty, was named to succeed Satchell Federation has appointed Mike Mike and his wife Eileen, live as chairman of the Michigan Farm Farmers risk all the hazards of other businesses and, in Satchell, 25, Caro, to serve on the on a modern dairy farm in Tus- Bureau Young Farmers' commit- addition, e~dure the uncertainties of weather, insects, dis- A.F.B.F. Young Farmers and cola County near Caro. The fam- tee and Michigan Farm Bureau ease and politicians. Ranchers Committee for a two ily farm operation includes his board member. A graduate of Farmers are persistence with sunbronzed face, starting year term. Satchell, immediate parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Michigan State Univeristy, Kar- again after a hail storm has wiped out a year's work. past chairman of the Michigan Satchell. The senior Satchells are sten looks forward to the oppor- Farmers are exhaustion with 326 bales that must be Farm Bureau Young Farmers' also active Farm Bureau members. tunities ahead with a great deal lifted and hauled to the barn after dark before lying down committee and Michigan Farm Satchell has served on the of optimism. to rest. Bureau board member, will rep- Michigan Farm Bureau Young Four new members have been Farmers are the kind of courageous, hard working, per- resent the Midwest states in his Farmers' committee for the past national position. two years. Also active on the appointed to the state committee sistent, practical fair minded men that other men imagine The national committee works Tuscola county Young Fanners' by Michigan Farm Bureau presi- themselves to be. with state Farm Bureaus on committee, Satchell has given out- dent, Elton Smith. They are: Finally, farmers are the brunt of jokes, the whipping Young Farmers' activities. A con- standing leadership to the pro- Mike Pridgeon, District 2; Karl boy of editors, and the sacrificial lamb of politicians. ference for state program leaders gram. American Farm Bureau Howard, District 6; Glenn Beck In spite of all the criticism fanners get, an indication of has been planned for late January Federation recognition for the and Carol Maxwell, both of Dis- what people really think is revealed in the fact that almost at Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. Michigan Farm Bureau Young trict 8. every man considers himseH a fanner at heart. Reprinted from "Along Our Highlines" - publication Talk with the Smart Set. What's the Smart Set? Why, a pair of of the 0 and A Electric Cooperative, Newaygo, Michigan. extension phones-the sleek new Trimline@ Phone that fits in the palm of your hand and the elegant 'Princess@ FARM BUREAU INSURANCE Phone with a dial that lights up. Smart looks, smart stepsavers, smart people getting with it. They're turning up everywhere in the most comfortable INNOVATIONS ANNOUNCED homes and apartments around. So talk with the Smart Set. It's the only If a company is to grow, it must change and adapt itself to thing smarter than Qne extension. the needs of its customers. And in the highly personal business of insurance, constant change, primarily updating of service and coverages, is absolutely necessary to provide the best possible policyholder protection. Surely the insurance jndustry's most rapily changing area is auto insurance. The business is tough and highly competitive. Only a company which combines innovation with service can succeed .. tlOn not aVal'labl'e WIth 0 tl ler m- . As three auto policyholder divi- surance firms. dends since August 1967 indicat~, Rule and rate changes tend to Farm Bureau Insurance Group rs lower rates for some drivers and succeedi~g throu.g~ innovati~n slightly increase rates for others. :md serVIce. RealIstic underwnt- These changes will am01lnt to a mg standards have gathered to- company-wide rate decrease of gether some of the safest drivers about two percent. in. Michigan. And in turn, these Some new advantages: deduc- drIvers deserve the best. So Fa~m tibles will be paid on collision Bure~u Insuranc~ Group. contm- with any animal or fowl; deduc- ues Its a~to polIcy servIce and tibles will be paid for both policy- coverage Improvement. holders on intercompany eollision Effective after January 2, 1969, between Farm Burea~l ~lutual numerous auto innovations will and Communi tv Service autos. occur affecting both policy and Also, at nominal cost additional rule changes. coverages will be available for Auto policies in Farm Bureau auto insureds, such as Accidental Mutual and Community Service Death and Dismemberment and Insurance Companies, both Farm 'new auto rental coverage which Bureau Insurance Group affiliates, will pay for temporary transpor- have been greatly liberalized. ,.- tation while an insured auto is Liability coverages have been ex- being repaired at compatlY ex- panded to offer increased protec- pense . .- - -- -------------- ---., .. ~- EIGHT January 1, 1969 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS GOLD STAR STATE AT NATIONAL YOUNG FARMER "DISCUSSION MEET" f NAMED NATIONAL WINNER - was Michigan's John Nye, 28 year-old Berrien county fruit grower (third from left). Nye concluded his marketing statement in the national Discussion Meet by stressing that farmers need to better understand marketing principles. He urged farmers to improve communications with all parts of the food industry and to tailer products to market needs. With him is AFBF President, Charles Shuman, and Moderator (center) Howard Wackman, of California. "FOUR STAR AWARD" - is received for the Michigan Farm Bureau by President Elton Smith (left) from American Farm Bureau President, Charles B. Shuman. To receive such recogni- tion the state must first make a membership gain, and be out- standing in four program areas. Michigan was honored for excellence in Information, Young Farmers, Women, and MACMA- marketing programs. Only two other states, Indiana and New York, matched this record. EMMET RURAL-URBAN PROJECTION VISUALS- are shown to guests by Emmet county Farm Bureau President, Herbert Hemmes (left). Over 250 busi- nessmen and wives were guests at a recent rural-urban dinner. Pictured (from left) are: Hemmes; Mr. and Mrs. George Fettig; Mrs. Hemmes; Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Barnefiher and Mr. and Mrs. AI Gruler, all of Harbor Springs. NEW YEAR1S RESOLUTION ANTIQUE BUICK This year our resolution is not so new ..• it is rather a reaffirmation of our past Pledge to bring you constantly improved products for your every need, with the special services you so richly deserve, and at a price which is competitive and in keeping with your co-op's ( I concept of economy in buying and selling. .. ( 1 FARMERS • ATTENTION ATTRACTOR - at the recent Farm Bureau Services * HAPPY NEW YEAR PETROLEUM • and Farmers Petroleum Co-op annual meeting and product show, was this antique Buick displayed by Wm. Rockey, Man- 4000 N. GRAND RIVER AVE. LANSING, MICHIGAN 1 ager of Sales for FPC. His theory; Old or new, it takes top petroleum products to keep any car on the road these days . MICHIGAN FARM NEWS January 1, 1969 NINE STORY OF: Ch BAGGED NAVY BEANS - replace the Michigan apples which this labor crew THESE PICTURES- tell a story of farmer-cooperation as Michigan Agricultural picked earlier in southern Michigan before receiving an S.O.S. from Port Huron Services Association (a farm-labor recruiting arm of the Michigan Form Bureau) authorities. At stake there, was 300,000 bags of Michigan beans already sold successfully shifted the former apple crew to the loading of 14,000 tons of navy to European markets, but without necessary labor to load them into waiting ships. beans sold overseas by the Michigan Elevator Exchange and local co-ops. BY HAND AND FORKLIFT- bagged beans are stacked in the hold. The alter- LARGE BEAN SHIPMENTS - are made in late fall when beans are ready but native to Port Huron loading would have meant rail shipment to Baltimore or stevedore labor is usually scarce. Canners try to get enough new-crop beans other East Coast ports, increasing freight costs to Europe by about 35 :.-- ... !; ;;; ~ ~~ .. 188 MICHIGAN SCHOOL DISTRICTS INSURE WITH FARM BUREAU... . . . And our Commercial Insurance Program is only three years old. The reasons for such rapid progress are simple. More protection, lower cost and something called service. This "service first" concept developed the following Farm Bureau school insurance programs: School Bus Fleets 101 Districts Multi-peril protection packages and Workmen's Compensation 65 Districts Teacher's tax-sheltered Retirement Plans 55 Districts Farm Bureau Insurance Group is still growing. Why? Because we want to meet all of Michigan's protection needs - individual, family, business and institutional. . And our 280 representatives - all experienced professionals - are doing just that. May we help you 7 " FARM BUREAU ---INSURANCE GROUP Farm Bureau Mutual. Farm Bureau Life. Community Service, LANSING