THE ACTION PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU Vol. 48, No. 10 -1919-50 Years of Service to Michigan Farmers-1969- OctobEI , GOOD THINGS TO EAT DO GROW IN MICHIGAN - and right up ELLIS GILSON, RETIREDFRUIT GROWER ... and Farm Bureau at the top of the list are the many fruits. Apples ... more than member, Sparta, lived on a centennial farm on Peach Ridge. He 12 million bushels harvested in 1968; cherries, (both red tart and has been an annual participant in the Peach Ridge Apple Smorgas- sweets and leading our nation in production); more than 23,000 bord and this year was more than happy to demonstrate his 100 tons of grapes harvested in 1968; nearly $3 million worth of year old apple corer and peeler to the more than 600 guests that peaches picked from Michigan trees during the past season. Add attended the September 9 event. John Bull homesteaded his farm near Bailey where today stands huge apple storage facilities. His to this bountiful fruit harvest, the pear and prune-plum crop. Take sons and grandsons have taken over the many-faceted operation into consideration the black and red raspberries, the acres of blue- allowing 'Dad' to tend to his personal grape vinyard. Red Tart berries, melons and almost 27 million pounds of strawberries ... cherries are among the "number oneil products in Michigan. Most and figures will prove that it's not only great to live in Michigan, orchardists use mechanical harvesters but the sweets are still hand but exceedingly healthy as well. picked as this young man did in an Empire orchard. Order Your Michigan Farm Bureau Annual Meeting Tickets from YOUR County Farm Bureau Secretary. Deadline.. Oct. 31 Annual Many Bills County Annual School IN THIS ISSUE: Meeting Page 3 Signed Page 4 Meetings Page 12 Tax Laws Page 14 TWO October 1, 1969 ~1CHI~ FARM N~Vts Editorial President's Column A Quiet Revolution 50th ANNUAL MEETING Needed: Farm Program For as long as I can remember we've had one 'Vhen we look at U.S. agriculture extended period, we can see the big picture of the great changes that have taken place. over an Michigan State University farm program or another, all designed to try and give the farmer an opportunity to make a hetter living. Each one has fallen far short of the goal ... in fact government fann programs con- Using 1957-59 as an index base of. 100, stitute one of the greatest obstacles to fanners' output of our fanns and ranches has almost doubled between 1939 and 1969 ... to 117. This indicates that the great period of from 69 November 10-12, 1969 efforts to develop effective marketing programs. production and agricultural output growth was in the period \Ve, in Farm Bureau, vigorously opposed the of years during "'orld '''ar II and after. original enacbnent of the major provisions of In terms of agricultural productivity, (still the 1965 Act. 'Ve are even more convinced to- OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ANNUAL l\1EETING using 1957-59 as the index base of 100) the in- day that the programs authorized by this Act crease was not quite so dramatic, from 73 in The 50th Annual ~feeting of the l\fichigan Fann Bu- are not in the long-time best interests of pro- 1939 to 109 in 1969. reau will be held November 10, 11, and 12, 1969 at Mich- ducers, consumers or taxpayers. "'hat makes the agricultural output and ag- igan State University, East Lansing, Michigan. The meet- Twenty-two members of the U. S. House of ricultural productivity indexes so amazing is ing of the Voting Delegates will convene at 10:00 a.m. Representatives and 20 U. S. Senators have in- the fact that these increases were achieved in ~10nday, November 10, in the Auditorium and will con- troduced legislation with Farm Bureau's recom- the face of declining fann numbers and fewer tinue through November 12. The Annual Banquet will be mendations concerning the costly and ineffec- people on the fanns of the nation. These facts, held in the Civic Center, Lansing, Tuesday evening, No- tive fann program. of course, have been repeated frequently in vember 11. Farm Bureau's proposal calls for enactment recent years, but the amazing changes in agri- The purposes of the meeting include: by Congress of a broad-based program to help culture are most apparent by comparing the (1) Election of l\tembers of the Board of Directors. individual farmers make needed adjustments, in- span of thirty years. The number of famls Odd-numbered Districts will elect Directors for two-year crease prices, expand markets, cut costs and (including ranches) has declined by more than terms. Also to be elected for a two-year term will be thus provide the basis for increased net fann half ... from 6,535,000 in 1939 to 3,200,000 in one Director-at-Iarge and one Director representing Fann income. 1969 (approx.). Even more dramatic is the decline in the number of people working in Bureau "'omen. One Director representing Farm Bureau The Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1969 agriculture ... from 11,978,000 in the 30's to Young Farmers will be elected for a one-year term. would provide for a five-year tr-ansition period only 4,903,000 today, a disappearance of two (2) Reports of officers. during which acreage controls, base acreages, out of three people working there in 1937. marketing quotas, processing taxes, and direct (3) Consideration and action on the recommendations The average size of fanns more than doubled payments for wheat, feed grains and cotton of the Policy Development Committee to determine action in the 30 year period. It was about 163 acres would be phased out. It would also provide policies of l\fichigan Fann Bureau for the coming year. in 1939 and is a little over 360 acres today. government price support loans for wheat, feed 'Yhen labor moves out of an industry there (4) Consideration of proposed amendments to the Bylaws. grains, cotton and soybeans at not more than obviously has to a replacement to account for The President's address will he given Monday morning, 85 per cent of the previous three-year-average continuing output and productivity as is true November 10. The afternoon will be devoted to Com- price beginning with the 1971 crop. in agriculture. This is evidenced in an increase modity Conferences and the Fanll Bureau "'omen's meet- It would prohibit the sale of government fourfold in the use of tractors in the thirty ing. The County President's banquet will be held Monday stocks of farm commodities at less than 150 years ... up from 1,657,000 in 1939 to over evening. The Policy Development Committee (Resolutions) per cent of the current Joan rate plus carrying 5,500,000 in 1969. Irrigation more than doubled will he in Special Session the first day of the Annual charges, except when sales are offset by equiva- in that same period, from 18,116,000 (in 1940) ~feeting ... November 10 ... following the Commodity lent purchases in the open market. to over 38,000,000 acres today. There was like- Conferences. Any ~lichigan Farm Bureau member is wel- wise a similar even-more dramatic increase in The Fann Bureau proposal would authorize come to appear before the Committee on any issue. The the Secretary of Agriculture to offer a special commercial fertilizer usage, with 1,178,000 tons Farm Bureau Young Farmer's banquet will be held Mon- transitional program to any farmer who has had indic.ated in 1940 to over 12,000,000 tons now day evening, November 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Kellogg Center. ... a tenfold increase. average gross annual sales of farm products of The Voting Delegates will again be in session Tuesday not more than $5,000 and off-farm income of It might readily be assumed that on the basis and \Vednesday. of such quiet revolutionary changes in Amer- not more than $2,000 per year for husband and Dan E. Reed, Secretary-Manager wife for the immediate preceding three years. ican agriculture over a period of three decades These farmers would be eligible to receive com- there is not much room left for improvement. pensation for acreage allobnents and base acre- The fact is that hy 1980 agriculture will have STATEl\tENT OF OWNERSHIP ages surrendered to the secretary for permanent to expand its abilities in production and output MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION cancellation; land retirement payments under to feed a national population projected to be (Act of Octoher 23, 1962; Section 4369, Title 39, United States Code) the Cropland Adjustment Program; retraining 235 million people. This will be done in the of the grants; adjustment assistance, and loans under face of a continuing increase in the size of l\-HCHIGAN FARM NEWS existing credit programs. fanns and the continuing decline in the number October I, 1969 FREQL'EXCY OF ISSUE: Monthly of workers on those fanns. It will require more I hasten to point out that the transition to the LOCATIOX OF KXOWX OFFICE OF PUBLICATIOX: 109 X. Lafayette St., irrigation and use of increasing volumes of Greenville. ~lichigan, Montcalm County - 48838 market system would be gradual. Substantial LOCATIOX OF THE HEADQUARTERS OR GEXERAL BUSIXESS OFFICES payments would be made during the transition commercial fertilizer. OF THE PURLISHERS: 4000 X. Grand River Avenue, Lansin~, Michi~an The inescapable conclusion is that with fann- PUBLISHER: Michi~an Farm Bureau, 4000 X. Grand River Ave., Lansing, period to help fanners make needed adjust- Michigan 48904 ers soh-ing their price and marketing problems EDITOR: Evan Hale, 4000 X. Grand Rivt'r Ave., Lansing, Michigan 48~)o4 ments. The cost of wheat certificates, for ex- through their own abilities and without outside ~IAXAGIXG EDITOR: Xone ample, to processors would he phased out at OWXER: ~Ikhil!an Fann Bureau. 4000 X. Grand River Ave., Lansin~, Mich. interferences, agriculture has prospects for be- the same rate as payments to farmers. KXO\\"X BOXD HOLDERS, ~IORTGAGEES. AXD OTHER SECURITY coming more prosperous for those able to meet HOLDERS O\\'XIXG OR HOLDlXG 1 PERCEXT OR ~IORE OF TOTAL The acreage retired from production under A~IOUXT OF BO:'\DS, ~IORTGAGES OR OTHER SECURITIES: 1"one the challenge of a continuing quiet revolution. Av~. Xo. Copies Sin~le Issue the Cropland Adjustment Program would be in- Each Issue During Xearest to The change from 1969 to 1980 will be even Past 12 ~Ionths Filinl'( Date creased as existing programs are phased out. more dramatic than the changes listed here; Total Xo. Copit>s Printt>d: (Xt.t prt>ss nm) 'i4 ..'j.'5.'j ,'j.'j.~J6,'j P"id Cir<:lll:1tion 53.338 ,'54,730 Increases in the acreage retired under this pro- and hy the year 2000, changes in agriculture Frt.(. Distrihlltion 647 660 gram would tend to offset reductions in the Total :'\0. Copies Distrihuted '54,.'5.'5.'5 ,'i.'5,96.'5 will be almost beyond our wildest dreams. I I ('crtify that the statements made hy m(' ahm'p. are correct and cornplet('. acreage diverted under annual diversion pro- Are tee preparing ourselves? (Signed) Evan Hall', Editor grams. 'Ve must keep in mind that much of Evan J. Hale the land now heing diverted under the current THE BEST ~. annual retirement program is XOT top quality MICHIGAN '.FA~M NEWS land. Also, present programs that dinTt acre- 5AFETY EQUIPMENT THE ACTION PUBLICATION OF THE MiCHIGAN. FARM BUREAU age on a part-time basis encourage the heavy EVER DEVISED- The ~IICHIGA~ puhlished monthly, FARM XEWS on the first dny, is DIRECTORS: District 1, Harrv use of fertilizer and other "land suhstitutes" and Xye. St. Joseph, R-I; District 2, Dell~ tw the ~Iichi~an Farm Bmeau. at its thus guarantee increased per acre yields. \\'e ~~\\ II ,/ pilblication office at 109 X. Lafayette 'Prid~eon, Munt.L!OOlery, R-I; Oistrict 3, R-C Dis- feel the retirement of whole farms under an " -../ ,/ 5trt'et. Greenville, Editorial 1'\orth Grand ~fichi~an 48n04. Telephone, MichiJran. ~nd ,I!eneral offices at 4000 River Avenue, Lansinll. Post Office Box 960. Lan,'iin}! 485-8121. Exten- Andrew trict 4. EltonR. Jackson. Howell. Smith. Caledonia,R-l; District 5. David Morris, Grand Led,l!e, R-3: District 6. Jack Laurie. Cass 'Citv, R-3; District 7, Kenneth Bull, Baile;" expanded Cropland Adjustment Program would be a far more effective means of bringing about sIon 31i. Subscription price, 50t per R-I; District 8. Harvey LeuenheFJ:(er; needed adjustment in land use. vear. Saginaw, R-B; District 9, Eugene 'Rob'~ . Established January 12. 1923. Sec- At the end of the proposed phase-out of acre- ond Class PostllS!e paid at Grt'enville, erts. Lake City, R-I; D.istrict 10. Michillan. Richard Wieland, 'Ellsworth, R-I; Dis- age allotments, marketing quotas, hase acreages, EDITORIAL: Editor, Evan J. Unle; trict II. Clayton Ford, CornelL A~ociate Editor. Vern ~1. Bullen; Ad- certificates and government payments for feed n>rtisinll :\fanaJtt'r. Carl P. Kentner; DIRECTORS AT LARGE: ""nlter Artist. XOmll1ll Good1in~, Fnlhm, Fr:mkenmllth; ]am('s L. Srt}'r~, grains, wheat and cotton, each producer would Bellevillt:; Calvin Lutz, Kale'\'a .. OFFICERS: Michi,mn Fann Bu- he free to plan his wheat, feed grain, cotton and reau: President. Elton R. Smith. Cale- WO~IE:'lem. Statistics vide for a three-year rollback at gether with other labor bills, are ing organizations and a third re- EDUCATION the time of the sale of the prop- still alive and no doubt will be show that accidents involving quiring payment to the producer rear-end collision on farm imple- This year's state aid for schools erty, passed the House by a slim major issues in the session begin- for fruits and vegetables within three-vote margin and is still alive ning in January, especially since ments have dropped over 32%. was increased by $89 million, 60 days' of delivery, are still alive making a total of $847.7 million. in the Senate Taxation Commit- some newspapers have been pub- Considerable work was done in committee. H. 3332, requiring In general, the formula is simple tee. An amendment was placed lishing a series of articles regard- payment for produce within 60 by Farm Bureau in amending bills to previous years; however, it is on it in the House that will re- ing migrant labor. In most cases that define "public waters" and days, finally passed the House; now a two-part formula instead quire considerable work on the these articles have not been ob- also defining private ponds and however, it ,became an extremely of the previous four-part formula. bill in order for It to finally pass. jective, and are often misleading. the size of dams. As originally controversial issue. The Senate Poorer districts will receive more Several undesirable tax bills Some labor legislation that is written, these pieces of legisla- Committee reported it out, but a money. stayed in committee, including still alive would be in the best tion would have seriously ham- fight developed on the floor re- one removing the agricultural interest of all employers. For in- pered the water rights of farmers An effort was made to reform garding the type of penalty and sales tax exemption. This con- stance, one bill would place a and would have placed undue financing of education. The it was returned to committee. It tinues to be a problem, not only three-vear statute of limitations restrictions on dams used for ir- «Spencer Program," supported by is still alive. in the Legislature, but also in the on w'orkmen's compensation. rigation ponds, etc. Farm Bureau, came very close to regulations and interpretations of There is presently no limit. In Farm Bureau successfully op- Farm Bureau's policy as deter- the Revenue Department. Farm other words, an employee claim posed a bill that would have re- The farmers' old friend, the mined by the voting delegates. It Bureau is involved in at least two for injury would have to be made moved the triangular shape re- "Horton Trespass Act" was is still alive in the committee and cases - one which is now before stricutions on oleo. The purpose amended extending its provisions within three years after its occur- .is presently the only comprehen- the Tax Court of Appeals. Should rence. The limitation would not of this Jaw is to make it possible to fishing, snowmobiling and pri- sive program before the Legisla- this case be lost, several items of apply to certain lung diseases or for the consumer to know whether vately-owned, fenced wild lands. ture. farm equipment would no doubt radiation illnesses. he is served butter or oleo. Several amendments were The Legislature returns on Oc- become liable to the sales tax. Other pending legislation At least two resolutions were made to the election laws, many tober 6 to spend full time on edu- All tax exemptions are being would be more restrictive on introduced in the House support- of which attempt to clarify the cational reform, including financ- scrutinized by the Senate Taxa- wages, hours, workmen's compen- ing the California grape boycott. ing. At that time, the Governor's obvious weaknesses of the laws tion Committee. Included is the sation, seasonal -worker housing, So far, they have remained in as shown by the Daylight Saving Education Reform Commission's exemption on fruit trees, vines, etc. committee; however, there was recommendations will be consid- Time recount. Farm Bureau hushes, farm crops such as wheat, one strong attempt to report them mem bers that worked on this proj- ered. Farm Bureau has presented hav, etc. It is claimed that $100 AGRICULTURE out. various materials to the Commis- ect will recall many obvious weak- miilion of valuation is lost due to All of the strictly agricultural The processors lost in their ef- nesses. One law will require the sion based on present policies and this one exemption. The exemp- fort to exempt raw, in-process and hills supported by Farm Bureau Countv Board of Canvassers to is also representing agriculture on tion on farm personal property is processed farm products from the passed and have become law. exami~e and approve ballot boxes the 43-member Advisory Com- also under study. It is claimed personal property tax. The bill These include a substantial in- used in elections. Another pro- mittee. that $450 million of valuation, or was returned to committee and creased indemnity for cattle with vides specific methods of process- There were many education S10-$20 million of tax, is lost in hlberculosis or brucellosis. In the is still alive. This legislation in- ing absent voters' ballots. Other bills. Expansion of Vocational this case and also that another case of tuberculous cattle, the in- directly is in the best interests of bills amended the recount pro- Education was given a boost by $ 15 million of sales tax is lost due demnity payment was increased agriculture. cedures. For instance, one new permitting Intermediate Districts to the agricultural exemption. for grade animals from $25 up to The expiration date for licens- law provides for an automatic re- to own and operate Vo-Ed facil- Most of the undesirable labor $100 payment over salvage value ing of CA storage for fmits and count in elections where results ities if approved by the constitu- bills either remained in commit- and purebred animals were in- vegetables was changed from vary by 2000 votes or less.. StilI ents districts. Nothing passed the tee, were returned to the com- creased from $50 up to $150 in- August 31 to November 1 of each another law requires the state to Legislature on education isrues mittee or laid on the table until demnity above salvage value. In year. contrary to Farm Bureau policies. furnish proper devices for locking the Legislature 1 eturns. H. 2943, the case of Bangs Disease, the and sealing ballot boxes. Another Manv important agricultural which would have increased the indemnity payment was increased important election change re- TAXATION research projects supported by Commission on Agricultural La- from $12.50 up to $50 for a grade Farm Bureau were maintained, quires that any issue on the ~,allo,~ Some important taxation passed bor from seven to nine members, animal and from $25 up to $100 others were added. Such projects must be so worded that a yes in line with Farm Bureau policies. gi.ving complete control to non'" for a purebred animal. Another now include bean plant research, vote is a vote in favor of the H. 2210, requires that notice be farm people - was defeated in bilI would not permit indemnity vegetable and fmit research, pesti- proposition. given to the property owner of the House. on animals brought into the stat~ cide research, mastitis in dairv any assessment increase and it A bill passed that will affect that have been "exposed to the Another new bill that wiII be cattle, beef cattle forage, soft must advise him of the time of farm employers, H. 2297 brings disease." useful to all householders permits white winter wheat, sod produc- the Board of Review meeting, so agricultural, domestic and public Various minor dairy bills passed the recipient of unsolicited goods tion, mechanization of harvesting,. that he has full opportunity to employers under the law requir- - involving licensing of milk fat through the mail to conside~ the extending peach tree life, cattle appeal. The bill had a lot of op- ing the payment of wages at least testers; mles and regulations on goods as an unconditional gIft or and swine infertility and friut and position. An amendment that was every two weeks (e.g. wages container volumes and also on mav refuse delivery, but, in any vegetable weather adaptability. put on at the last minute elim- earned from the first through fif- definit:on of low-fat milk; another ev~nt, is not obliged to rehun This totals $5,344,260. These are inates this requirement if 30% or teenth of the month must be paid redefines low-fat cottage cheese, them and may use or dispose of more of the property valuations carried on by the Agricultural bv the first day of the following eggnog and related foods. them in any way. Experiment Station, MSU. In ad- in the assessing district are in- month). An itemized statement The Apiary Inspection Law was creased. This became Farm Bu- dition, Farm Bureau supported Several safety bills passed, in- of deductions must also be fur- updated on registration provisions. reau policy through the recom- the important appropriations for cluding a requirement of gu~ nished to the employee. The law The pesticide hill to require li- mendation of the AIcona County the Agriculhlral Department. training for juveniles before a h- does not apply to workers paid censing of "indoor applicators" Farm Bureau. In many areas, daily on a piece rate basis. If an Another bill important to Mich- cense is permitted and the re- pased one house and is still alive. igan wineries, and also indirectlv property owners' assessments were employee leaves his job he must Another pesticide bill which Farm quirement of wearing a helmet affecting grape growers, passed t~ on motorcycles. MICHIGAN FAQJx\_NEWS October 1, 1969 FIVE Golden Spotli Pause for Reflections "Been a-fishin' ... Had a good Farm 8urea The Michigan Farm Bureau time too ... even caught some fish in our favorite lake in Can- ada. Fishing can teach some very 'Vomen's StalL Annual meeting in good practices for everyday use. Novem/Jet promises to have many In order to catch fish, one has to highlights ... maybe a few more be persistent and patient. I can't than in previous years ... when think of a single thing we learn the golden spotlight hits this to do, that doesn't require per- active group of ladies as they sistence and patience, can you? observe Michigan Farm Bureau's Being out on a beautiful lake 50th Anniversary. makes one realize more than ever, According to Helen Atwood, how wonderful our "Creator" is. Coordinator, Women's Activities, Your State Farm Bureau Wom- Senator N. Lorraine Beebe, Mich- en's Committee has spent a great igan State Legislature, will be the ~ deal of time in doing some serious keynote speaker at the noon luncheon to be held in tlie Big 10 working, not waiting . planning and thinking on ways that we can be more effective in Room at Kellogg Center Novem- strengthening and reinforcing ac- ber 10. In addition to this high- tion programs in our county Farm light, a State Chairman and Vice- Bureaus. I do hope you wiIl think Chairman will be elected and seriously on the suggestions given adding more golden glamour to you as you consider your pro- this occasion ... a state style grams and projects for the coming review by the ladies will have a year. Stretch your imagination on place of prominence. some new worthwhile project. Months of planning have gone Schools back in session and we into this program. Just as in must be alert in the morning for every other phase of the 50th the young people going to meet Anniversary celebration ... the their buses. Don (our son) is back 'Vomen, as usual, have come at Michigan Tech and Carolin through with many worthwhile (our daughter) and her Mike have parts of this 3-day meeting. returned to Utah State where they In addition to Senator Beebe's are completing their Master's de- address on War On Crime, the grees. It's been a fun and busy current Women's chairman, Mrs. summer! Maxine Top'iff, will give her an- From summer, to fall and now n ual report; awards will be pre- a thought for winter! With all sented to county women's com- those zippers «coming up' soon, mittees for outstanding achieve- rub a little soap on them to keep ment over the past year and there them going up smoothly! will be some group singing. Maxine Topliff, (Mrs. Jerold), is com. Doris Wieland of Ellsworth, is a candi- Ann Campau, (Mrs. Francis), is seeking Have a little personality test pleting her first two year term as State date for MFB Women's State Committee the Michigan Farm Bureau Women's for you. Have you noticed any The Sty~e Review ... a result Committee Women's Chairman. She is Vice-chairmanship. Doris is the wife of Committee vice-chairmanship, following unfriendly people lately? If so, of a year long program ... will the only announced candidate for this Richard Wieland, MFB Board of Director up on a recommendation from Evelyn position. Maxine and her husband farm and the mother of four children, two Rogers, Kent County Women's chairman. take a long look into the mirror. be put on by county participants. in Eaton Rapids and also process maple daughters, Kathy ord Suzanne and two Ann is Women's Representative of the Study yourself. Do you see en- These ladies have been partici- syrup. They have tl1ree children . sons, Dan and Lind. Doris has served on Snow Farm Bureau Committee and chair- thusiasm and a look of weIl-being? pating in a needlecraft contest two of them, Carolin and Donald . many local and state Women's Commit- man of District 4 Farm Bureau Women's Try a ready smile. Stand up within their counties, and win- are completing their educational degrees tee~ and is active in 4-H, her school and Committee. She has been active in elec- in colleges and Mary Ellen is in high church and a number of conservation tion and iury duties, her church, "-H, her straight and put a little spring in ning contestants will model their school. Maxine attended Michigan State study groups. The Wieland:s have a political party and other women's organ- your step. Soon you will notice award-winning clothing. A spe- University, taught one year and has held 700 acre dairy farm, in partnership with iza~ions. Ann and her family live on a that everyone is friendly. ~laybe cial display of other needlework leadership positions in her county, dis. Mr. Wieland's brother. dairy farm in Alto and hove 3 children, you just hadn't taken time to will be set up. trict and state Farm Bureau Women's Robert, Susan and John. notice them or yourself. SMILE! activities. She also works with 4-H, East- Tickets for the luncheon are to ern Star and in her church and school. Mrs. Jerold (Maxine) Topliff be obtained from respective COlm- ty Farm Bureau Secretaries. Further and more detailed District Meetings plans will be announced in the November Farm through your newsletter. News and Michigan Farm Bureau's 50th Anniversary has been one of the go anyWhere in Michigan main topics of interest at all Farm Bureau Women's meetings this lor a nickel-a-minule. Progranrof Work year. The same subject is sure to be further discussed at their dis- trict meetings, along with the Michiga71:Farm Bureau Women many other topics on their agenda. have developed a full program of District meetingS' scheduled work for 1970. are: October 2, District 9; Octo- These program recommenda- ber 7, District 7; October 8, Dis- tions are the result. of hours of trict 8; October 9, District 3; planning by the State Women's October 15, District 4; October Committee and promises "to in- 20, District 5; October 21, District volve more Farm Bureau Women 6; October 22, District 10-W; Oc- in County Farm Bureau activities tober 28, District 2 and October to strengthen Farm Bureau as an 30, District 1. organization, and through it, make Leaders in Farm Bureau Wom- a better life morally, socially and en's actiivties have also been economically." named to state committees. Mrs. Recommended are activi ties Margaret Wilke, Lapeer, Mrs. that will include participation in Bessie DeGroot, Bellevue and the membership campaign, com- Mrs. Martha Baker, Merrill, were munity group promotion and de- elected to the State Safety Com- veloping and activating Farm Bu- mittee. Mrs. Margaret Kartes, reau policies. 'Vest Branch. will continue to The Women also hope to be- serve as chairman and Mrs. Alice come active in "local affairs" ... Burandt, St. Joseph, as a commit- such as working with local gov- tee member. ernment officials on such matters Mrs. Leora Smith, Hastings; o For a nickel, . [~ L \'\. ~\ calls dialed direct, as taxes, fire and police protec- Mrs. Claudine Jackson, Howell and Mrs. Kartes are members of we'll carry your voice~, . ~_, L J 'A. ", , and to operator-handled tion, welfare, schools, health and a long distance ....... ~ ~ calls where Direct Distance safety projects and to study their the State Scholarship committee. o You pay just $2 a month, Dialing is not yet available. schools' curriculum. The promo- Mrs. Smith is the newly elected tion of Michigan's agricultural member. The State Women's and from 10 at night till 7 in the morning, o Call our Business Office and ask you can direct dial calls to anyplace in for Nickel-a-Minute service. It's a nice commodities, it is hoped, will also chairman is an ex-officio memQer. Michigan. For a Nickel-a-Minute. way to get out of town in a hurry. be a F. B. Women's pro;ect and Mrs. Maxine Swindlehurst, ~lt. the promotion of rural-urban ac- pleasant and Mrs. Maud Bristol, o You can call your kids away at school, relatives across the state, or tivities was included in this com- ing year's Program of Work. Plans are also being completed for the Washington Legislative Durand, are newly elected mem- bers of the State U & I (Under- standing and Information) com- mittee. Other members are Mrs. friends living anywhere in Michigan. o Nickel-a-Minute service applies only to station-to-station @ Michigan Bell Seminar, sponsored annuaIIy by Doris Wieland, Ellsworth, chair- Michigan Farm Bureau Women. man; Mrs. Ann Campau, Alto and It is scheduled for March 16-19, the vice-chairman of the State 1970. Women's committee. October 1, 1969 M1t~iGM4I..fARM NEWttI Farm Bureau On Tbe Air Accent Agriculture - Adrian; Dial 1490 u-- .__..WAD} Albion; Dial 1260 --.u-----..WALM Alma; Dial 1280 --.--..--.....-.WFYC Ann Arbor; Dial 1050 --.---WPAG Battle Creek; Dial 1400 .... \VKFR Battle Creek; Dial 1500 __WVOC Bay City; Dial 1250 ----..uWXOX Benton Harbor; Dial 1060 _._m •• .u . WHFB Big Rapids; Dial 1460 ..WBRN Cadillac; Dial 1370 -------.WWAM 92.9 -_\VW AM.TV Caro; Dial 1360 -----.---------.WKYO Charlotte; Dial 1390 ..--....WCER Cheboygan; Dial 1240 WCBY Chicago, DIinois; Dial 720 u..u-------u.. ...._WGN WCCW'S Jerry Meyer - ~ .... ) I Listeners in the Traverse City area can catch an abbreviated ver- Coldwater; Dial 1590 .-----.-WTVB Detroit; Dial 950 ----------------WWJ Dowagiac; Dial 1440 -WDOW GOY. MILLIKEN SIGNED ... a Proclamation Sept. 23 naming October Michigan Cooperative Month. Looking on were (I. to r.) Alfred Roberts, Gen. Mgr .., Mich. Elevator Excha,nge; MFB Pres- sion of ACCENT AGRICUL- Flint; Dial 910 -...: -- -\VFDF ident Elton Smith; MAFC Chr. Eugene Erskine and l. A. Cheney, Exec. Sec. MAFC. TURE on WCCW's "Community Gaylord; Dial 900 __.__ _.W ATC Comment" feature. As we get the Grand Rapids; Tax Reform- story from Jerry Meyer, WCCWs early morning man, the double A Dial 1570 u------.-------.- Grand Rapids; __WFUR How? What? shortie is neard on Fridays at 6:35 a.m., 8:35 a.m., 1:35 p.m., and 10:45 p.m. WCCW opens their Dial 1410 .--- ._.__... ._WGRD Hancock; Dial 920 -------..-..WMPL There are two provisions of the "Tax Reform Act of 1969" telephone lines so listeners can Hillsdale; Di~ 1340 --------..WCSR that should be of particular con- The 1969 cherry season is now history I It was, to say the least, comment on what they heard on Holland; Dial 1450 -. ..WHrC cern to farmers: 1. The elimina- a frustrating year for all concerned. the air. Over in Alma, WFYC Houghton Lake; tion of the 7 % Investment Credit; Final deliveries did not come up to earlier expectations. The listeners are tuning in ACCENT Dial 1290 .----.-h...--_h _WHGR and 2. Punitive provision chang- pack figures reflected only 12 million pounds above last year. AGRICULTURE at 6:45 a.m., Ionia; Dial 1430 ----- -..WION ing the requirements for farm co- Yet the grower price reflected only a small portion of last year's Saturdays. Gary Randall, the sta- operative patronage payments. tion's program director, says that Iron River; Dial 1230 _._ _WIKB income. Placing our attention at this they have a large country-oriented Ishpeming; Dial 1240 -- WJPD This would point up the need to take a careful look at the time on the cooperative patronage audience thanks to the work of Kalamazoo; Dial 1360 h_WKMI problems of the cherry industry to see what might be the solu- payments, the biB requires coop- their farm editor, Gil Thomas, and Kal~azoo; Dial 1420 -- WKPR tion to improve the situation for the future. that the Farm Bureau radio show eratives to increase the percentage The major concern or problem seems to be in the wide fluc- is one more feature their audience Lapeer; Dial 1230 ----- WMPC of patronage aJIowance to be paid in cash from 20 % to 50 %. The tuation of market supply. For example, from 500 million pounds appreciates. Lapeer; Dial 1530 ..... ----_..WTHM increase is to be phased in over in 1964 to less than 180 million pounds in 1967 shows a fluctua- Ludington; Dial 1450 __. WKLA a 10-year period starting in 1970. tion of 200%-3000/0. This compares to apples with only a 5%- Marine City; Dial 1590 __..WSMA The percentage over 20 % that 15 % range in production between short and long crops. Marinette, Wisconsin; must be paid in cash is: 1970- Along with the fluctuation of the market supply and much to Dial 570 .----h :. __... WMAM 3%; 1971-6%; 1972-9%, the chagrin of growers and processors alike, we find the price Menominee; Dial 1340 ..__\VAGN etc. until 1979 and thereafter range to follow the same pattern. Grower price of 4.~ in 1965 when it is 30 % making a total of Midland; Dial 1490 __...... WMDN to 1~ in 1967. Frozen cherries from 10.~ in 1965 to 3~ in 1967. Munising; Dial 1400 ._..WGON 50 % to be paid in cash. The non-cash portion of patron- This infonna tion points out the following major problems: Niles; Dial 1290 ...WNIL age refunds allocated, beginning (1) Short crops hamper development of new products and ex- Owosso; Dial 1080 _.u __WOAP with 1970, must be retired with pansion of markets; (2) Large crops reflect low prices. Rockford; Dial 810 - ..WJPW cash within fifteen years. The fluctuating supply is caused by several factors of which Rogers City; Dial 960 __ WHAK Kenneth Naden, Executive Vice weather seems to be the major point. Spring freezes, winter President of the National Council kill, pollination, wind and disease all contribute to an uneven Saginaw; Dial 1210 _...__ WKNX of Farmer Cooperatives said, supply, plus, most of the tart cherry production is located in : Sandusky; Dial 1560 WMIC , i "Aside from raising havoc with the lake state area which usually has the same weather condi- Sault Ste. Marie; the financing plans of many small tions throughout Dial 1230 ._._U __h_._WSOO farmer cooperatives, the bill Southfield; Dial 1270 __.__...WXYZ' The fluctuating supply reflects an impact on the cherry in- breaks new ground in permitting dustry because it (1) hampers development and introduction of Sturgis; Dial 1230 .._. .__WSTR government to set policies that ordinarilv are entrusted to a new products on a national scale; (2) reduces the number of WFYC Gary Randall Three Rivers; Dial 1510 __WKLM fa-rmer-eiected board of directors." cherry products for sale; (3) causes consumer and institutional Traverse City; L. A. Cheney, Executive Secre- buyers to get out of the buying habit for cherry products; (4) Farm Bureau's weekly radio Dial 1310 ..__.. h.. ..WCCW tary of the Michigan Association restricts promotional activities by retailers, restaurants, etc.; (5) show ACCENT AGRICUL- of Farmer Cooperatives said, "The reduces budget of promotional organizations; (6) limits retail TURE, now on 55 stations arounG October will feature Mary Beck, proposed legislation would seri- shelf space; (7) limits incentive for sufficient processing facil- the state, has an October that one-time candidate for mayor of ously impair the ability of farmers ities; (8) hampers development of foreign markets; and (9) lends should make ipteresting listening Detroit, discussing law and order; to finance their cooperatives un- to high overhead in short years. These are only a few of the for everyone. One show is titled a Cuban telling about life under der present basic cooperative "The World Of The Supermarket" Castro; an interesting way to keep problems caused by fluctuating supply of marketable fruit. and highlights shopper attitudes, unwanted hunters off your land; structure and philosophy. Since fluctuating supply seems to be the problem, what are the question "'\Vhen are groceries, "The financial status of our local the alternatives and WJR personality Bud Guest to reduce the uneven supply? (1) Frost pro- groceries?", the ups and downs of cooperatives would be seriously on the subject of pot-bellied tection with orchard heaters, wind machines, etc. (2) Develop- food pricing, inflation at the res- stoves. For an interesting Oc- affected with the tight money sit- uation. The patronage refunds ment of new varieties or strains that are more resistant to frost taurant, and a look inside the tober on radio, be sure to listen left with cooperativcs provide the or that bloom and ripen over an extended period. (3) Reduce market basket. Other shows in to ACCENT AGRICULTURE. organizations with investment frost damage with protectant sprays, growth regulators, nutri. capital that otherwise would be tional adjustments, etc. (4) Storage, set aside, carry-over from at a crossroads and cannot avoid a decision. Grower leaders difficult to obtain. It would large crops to small crop years by (a) individual processors, believe there is a solution that will be acceptable and in the change member equity to debt growers, or others; (b) by industry wide co-ops or corporations; . best long-run interests of the indusby. status making it more difficult for (c) Marketing order. (5) Diversion to secondary uses or non- The Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Associa- cooperatives to finance their op- harvest in large crop years. erations. Michigan cooperatives tion Red Tart Cherry Division has taken the initiative to de- would be forced to pay dividends The objectives of the alternatives would be to (1) raise in- velop a program acceptable to the total cherry industry. Chair- and finance its operation as pre- come of growers and processors; (2) assure reasonable return man Rodney Bull of the Michigan Agricultural Cooperative scribed by Congress." on investment, labor and management; (3) facilitate future Marketing Association Red Tart Cherry committee appointed Proposed tax reform legislation growth of the industry; (4) improve the efficiency of processing a sub committee of growers and related industry people beaded provides no added revenue for and marketing; (5) maintain a high degree of individual decision by Pete Morrison to develop a possible solution of stabilizing the federal government. making for growers and processors; and (6) reduce short run the supply of cherries to the market as opposed to stabilizing It is obvious that this unsched- risk by eliminating the wide fluctuation of volume and price. actual production. uled and hasty action by the com- The alternatives can be grouped into two main categories. . The development of a program is intended to improve the mittee to cripple farmer cooper- A. Action to stabilize or manage production mdustry position by implementing an Oiderly marketing pro- atives was engineered by the foes gram in place of the present hap-hazard effort. B. Action to stabilize or manage supply available of farmer cooperatives, including Understanding and participation by all members of the cherry the National Tax Equality Asso- The question is - What is the future of the industry? Which ciation. industry will surely help in solving the complex problems which alternative will growers and processors accept? The industry is face cherry people today. ~HIGAN FAIWA;N~5 October 1, 1969 SEVE~ MORE THAN 35 TONS - of red tart, semi-frozen cherries in 30 # tins, were sold in 7 counties in July as part of a sales pro- motion by MFB. The sale supported the theory that cherries can be sold at the right price . .......... "YOU KNOW ... I'VE NEVER BEEN ON A FARM _" said J. P. McCarthy (left) OVERSEES FARM PROGRAMS - The newly-appointed executive director of the when he talked with Jim Sayre, (right) Wayne County farmer and new Mich- Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service Programs in Michigan, igan Farm Bureau Board member, on WJR's FOCUS show recently. J. P. found Dorn Diehl, (left) briefs U. S. Senator Robert P. Griffin on farm problems in that Jim is a true 20th Century farmer and top-caliber business man ... as the state. Diehl said inflation and steadily rising farming costs hurt farm any farmer needs to be in this era. families the most. ONE OF THE BILLSSIGNED - by Gov. William Milliken was of importance to JOHN K BULL(center), 87 years young - begins his 51 st year as a Farm Bureau Michigan wineries and to Farm Bureau grape growers. The bill extends the member in Muskegon county. He gave his check for dues to his son, Kenneth time that wineries have to apply for tax refunds on wine grapes. looking on Bull (right) MFB Board of Directors member. Looking on is Ken's son, Tim, a are MFB legislative counsels, Bob Smith, Dale Sherwin and Leo Bolen, Pres. senior horticulture student at MSU. Mich. Wine Institute and Frank Koval, Exec. Sec. Mich. Wine Inst. THE PEACH RIDGE FRUIT GROWERS ASSOCIATION - comprised of more than 200 members and their wives were hosts to almost 600 guests at the 20th A COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE - was installed near the east entrance of the Apple Smorgasbord September 9. Dozens of dishes ... all featuring apples Chicago LaSalle hotel September 10, recognizing the founding of the American in some form ... were served from gay red and white checkered tablecloths Farm Bureau Federation. AFBF President Charles Shuman (left) and Michigan in the storage facility and on the lawn of the Franklin Reister and Sons Farms Farm Bureau President Elton Smith attended the event. in Ottawa county. EIGHT October 1, 1969 work our own way out of our \Vhile these negotiations were • difficulties. taking place, Patch and I hecame • Once back in Lansing, Th.omas most agreeahly acquainted with ~ and I, with the help of GIfford Cohen. lie was a tall, soft-spoken ••••• Patch, Extension Specialist in man, I would judge in his late ~larketing at ~lichigan State Col- thirties. One word would de- lege, worked out a custodian scribe him: hrilJiant. Yet, unlike agreement with the Lansing Na- so many intellectuals, he accom- tional Bank. All returns from modated himself most capably to sales of seed would be turned the practical side of things. He over to Lansing National, w~ich worked his way through the tech- would then pay the other banks nicalities of the loan with meteoric in proportion to the size of their speed. Nor was he without hu- loans to the Bureau. The loans mor. He bore up under our josh- were paid off in full in eighteen ing him that after his well .of months, mainly from insurance choices ran dry, the Michigan commissions. Surety Company would be stand- We had of course slashed ex- ing by, ready to guarantee our -SYNOPSIS- penses at the Bureau. Salaries performanc.'C. Only after Benja- had been cut 10% twice in 1931; min Cohen became one of Presi- CLARK l. BRODY was the first Secretary-Manager of the Michigan Farm Bureau. in 1932 heads of departments dent Roosevelt's brain-trusters did Over a wide span of years he guided the organization through political and were cut another 25%. The Traf- ( truly appreciate the measure of financial crisis, and from a fledgling organization into a powerful giant among fic Department was discontinued the man. state Farm Bureaus. His book, \\In the Service of the Farmer" is a warm recount- and the Farm Bureau News was Late in February, 1933, I went published only once instead of ing of the turbulent times when the Bureau was still trying to find itself - to to Chicago to sign the final papers twice each month. Every em- determine members' needs and practical means of meeting those needs. In and collect the advance of $10,- ployee took on additional respon- last month's chapters, Brody told of good times and bad, and the hard choices 000 from the Farmers Nationa] sibilities as the staff was drastic- Crain Corporation. Governor Wil- between short term gains which could later become "bad long-run economics ... " allv reduced. Some paydays we liam Comstock, newlv installed ("In the Service of the Farmer" Copyright 1959 MSU Press, Excerpts reprinted m~t only half the payroll, paying in office, had just pla~ed a mor- the balance in preferred stock of by permission.) the Farm Bureau Services. Com- atorium on bank operations missions from insurance. sales throughout the state 'in an effort to preclude a general financial THE DEPRESSION tained, their wages might be cut was taken over by the Union alone kept us solvent. State Farm collapse. Banks in Chicago were deeply again and again. But they Guardian Trust Company of De- Mutual was enough impressed by By 1932 the depression had shaky, but still open. I wanted were working at the moment, and troit. our prospects to take over a $25,- taken its toll in every American 000 mortgage on the Farm Bu- to convert the check into cash in that was all that mattered. Even ~lr. Charles Bryan came in De- citv and town, and in nearlv ev- reau Building, for the redemption Chicago and then to send the so, it was a distressing thing to ceml"er to Lansing with instruc- ery home. No day lacked its 'com- of which we -were being pressed. $] 0,000 to Lansing by express. have a friend come begging for tions from Guardian Trust to panies going bankrupt or its bank a job, any kind of job, or for a Though more than $35,000 on de- The check wa.c; placed in my force the payment of all loans, and failures. Businesses that stayed promise of work so he could get posit in banks had been lost to hands on a Thursday, just before none more so than loans to. the open layed off employees right his cTedit extended, or at least us, at the end of 1932 the net three o'clock, bank closing time. Bureau. Accordingly, when our and left. Lined up outside every get a loan to tide him over until worth of the Bureau still stood ( rushed out on the narrow side- first seed note fell due, Bryan re- employment office, vying with something turned up. at $234,000. walk and hurried to the Con- fused to renew it. Though I as- unskilled laborers and even bums tinental l11inois National Bank, Things were as bad on the sured him that given time the and hoboes for jobs as ditch-dig- where the Michigan State Farm farm, as many young couples who Bureau would be able to repay MONEY NEEDED gers, nightwatchmen, janitors, and Bureau maintained a checking ac- returned home to live with their the loan in full, he remained messengers, were men who still But the new vear bode to be eount in connection with its feed parents were to learn. Farm prices adamant. At my persistent urg- dressed like corporation presi- as disastrous as the old. It seemed business. I'm afraid I jostled sev- had been halved since 1929; farm ing, he agreed to examine the dents, architects, advertising ex- that the downward turn of busi- eral people rudel¥ on my way to income was only one-third of what records of the Bureau. Louis ecutives, and civil engineers. ness would never stop. Gifford the bank. Once a policeman took it had been three years before. Thomas, ~Ianager of the Farm Those who weren't hired sought Patch and I went to Chicago to me bv the arm to slow me down. \Vhen creditors began to fore- Bureau Services, and I spent sev- out the bread and soup line in- see Paul Kelly, manager of the I slipped through the iron gates close and dispossess the farmer, he eral hours with Brvan. \Ve ham- stead, which by then was an ugly, seed department of the Farmers lost the one advantage, that of mered away at the fact that if of the bank as they were being omnipresent, everyday fact, or National Grain Corporation, which being able to grow his own food, our assets were liquidated to set- c~osed. J shoved my hand through panhandled, or sold apples along had been established by the De- that he might have had over city tle the loan, that Guardian Trust window 37 as it was falling. The the street, or returned to a park partment of Agriculture to pro- folk. Resentment grew. Farmers would lose $80,000 to $100,000. teller obligingly raised the win- bench to brood. Life had reduced vide farmers with a membership gathered at auctions of a neigh- Bryan eventually said he would' dow, and being satisfied that I itself to its most basic element, on the Chicago Board of Trade. bor's farming equipment and per- go along with us. If anyone at had the authority to endorse the survival. 'Ve desperately needed .funds. sonal possessions and they would the collection window gave us check, he promised to ship the. And the depression was a time any trouble, we were to see -him. \Ve had a market (farmers were ca.c;h by express that night to hold the bidding down. They keeping their money in socks) if of indignity and shame. Parents Lansing. would bid five cents for a hav Hardly had we finished with kept children with shabby clothes we could get hold of some seed. loader, one cent for a set of chair~, Bryan before the ('"entral United The pleasure ( felt at having at home rather than broadcast The National Grain Corporation three cents for a piano, promptly Bank of Cleveland sent an over- got the money left me during my their poverty. Pride also kept had seed but few outlets for it. returning the owner's possessions seer to our warehouse, who was walk to the railroad station that people from applying for the dole. \Ve arranged for the Bureau to to him. As foreclosures increased to be kept there at our expense. evening to catch the sleeper back ~Ioreover, relief was then mainly be a sales outlet and purchasing legislatures enacted emergency Not a single bag of seed was to Lansing. The weather was cold distributed by local authorities, agency for National Grain. The laws postponing payment, but the moved without his express per- and windy, as it can be only in few of whom were trained for Bureau would be advanced $10,- farmer saw his whole world col- mission. This made it impossible Chicago. It seemed that the peo- such work. They were likely to 000, with which it might meet lapsing, and he was close to vio- for us to assemble orders for de- ple I saw, shivering in whatever regard the poor as wards of the payrolls. One-third of the com- lence. He resisted evictions, some- livery, even from seed inventories clothes thev were wearing, were public, as they did chronic drunk- missions of the Bureau earned times by arms, and armed pickets covered bv loans from other walking th~ streets because they ards and the feeble-minded, and would be applied to repayment set up road blocks to stop produce banks. We'resented this action of to handle the poor as such. For of the loan. had no place to go to get warm. from being shipped to market. In Central United, which a year be- as in earlier days in this country, The attorney for the National Those who were hanging around January, 1933, Edward A. O'Neal, fore had gone to such pains to when forests were being cleared Grain CorlX>ration was Benjamin the railroad station to get warm president of the American Farn1 solicit a loan which we had. vir- and land broken for the first time V. Cohen. Patch and I suggested resembled vagrants under the Bureau Federation, warned the tually arranged to make from a - when there was a shortage of the ~lichigan Surety Company of ghostly halfJight and were likely United States Senate, that "un- Lansing bank. Now Central men and not jobs -- idleness was Lansing as guarantor of our per- to be picked up by the police as less something is done for the United was our most impatient still considered sinful. An unem- forn1ance. Cohen insisted~ that a such at the urging of the railroad. American farmer we will have a and distrustful creditor. ployed person was either shiftless surety company from the east be Not that the railroad did not have revolution in the countrYside or not looking hard enough for Thomas and I took a train to given the contract. We deferred its problems. The railroad could within less than twelve mo~ths." work. The moral fiber of men Cleveland to see the panickv to him, but before the company not afford to let the station shelter would be seriously weakened if \Ve were at this time fighting young man who had been a~- of his choice could guarantee the the vagrant part of the population relief was too easily available; our own desperate battles to keep signed to our loan. \Ve elicited bond, it failed. He named a sec- of Chicago. Someone had to they might. then prefer not to the ~fichigan Stace Farm Bureau no information from him other ond company from the east, which house the homeless. Bllt I could work. Relief should be granted alive. In the fall of 1931, to bu\' than that the position of the bank also failed. The third company not help hut he ('oll("('rl1ed wi tII only when all other resources had seed at thirteen dollars a bush~l was inflexible. No lenienev what- of his choice was able to issuc wOlldering who would take on been exhausted, and only after we had obtained large loans from ever was to be shown the i3ureau. the bond. the responsibility. the applicant had been required both the City National Bank and Thomas and I insisted on seeing to reveal most ignominiously the the Capital National Bank in Lan- the boss, who, when he did deign reasons for his needing the dole. sing, the First National of Detroit to see us, greeted us coldly. With- The depression had to reach its and from the Central United Na- out preliminaries, he said that the greatest depths - unemployment tional Bank in Cleveland. Citv bank's position was firm. We had to become long-term as well National closed its doors in D~- hung on. We told him that unless as widespread - before a work- cember, 1931, after deposits in we were allowed to dispose of the ing majority of the populace one year had shrunk from $25 seed through our regular sales out- would concede that there were million to $5 million. The officers lets, the bank would lose at least reasons other than shiftlessness of City National spent the Christ- half its loan and, moreover, that that idled men. Indeed, the naive mas holidays turning its affairs if their custodian would not per- notion that idleness is sinful per over to Capital National. \Vhen mit us to move the seed as orders se has not yet wholly vanished the selling price of seed fell to ('ame in, the seed which was al- from our society. six dollars a bushel retail, Capital ready deteriorating rapidly, would Individuals who were fortunate National got edgy, and no won- become unsalable. Our worries enough to hold onto their jobs der, for our loans from it now would then be his, for the bank felt insecure. They might be let totalled $184,000. In November, not us, would be in the seed busi~ go the next day; if they were re- 1932, Capital National failed. It ness. He then agreed to let us John F. Yaeger B. F. Hennink ~CHIGAN FARM NEWS October 1 1969 NINE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Thc newsboys were crying that Chicago banks would not close, side of the platform and leaned not on the morrow, anyhow. That against a projecting sidewall. eased me. Yet on my getting to His hair was rumpled, as it al- Lansing in the morning, the big ways is in his photographs, a few news was that Chicago banks had strands constantly threatening to not opened. The $10,000 might cascade down over his forehead. be frozen in the Continental Illi- He spoke the language of farm- nois National Bank. I would have ers, informal and rather colloqui- to wait. To my inexpressible com- al, spread with homely imagery. fort the money arrived the next Secretary Wallace temporized day, on a Saturday, in a very tidy, not at all with his audience. He surprisingly small package. I car- maintained that sugar could only ried the package directly to the be grown economically in warmer Rank of Lansing, where James climates, that other crops could Wilford, the executive vice-presi- be grown to better advantage in dent, opened the side door for Michigan, beans for example. me, and put the money in a vault But even so, because of the de- for safe keeping over the week- pression, the present acreage al- end. lotment exceeded the average of the five years preceding 1933. On ~fonday morning, Gilbert He defended sugar imports from r.riswo'd, assistant treasurer of Cuba. Diminishing imports would THE 1935 MFB BOARD OF DIRECTORS had their problems ... mostly about money. Mem- the Bureau, informed me that hurt the nation because exports bers of the Board were, front row, left to right, J. J. Ja~way, Clark l. Brody, W. E. Phillips, enough cash had been collected would be diminished bv the same W. W. Billings, Mrs. Edith Wagar and M. B. MacPherson. Second row, left to right, C. S. Lang- from accounts receivnble to meet amount. More recjpr~cal trade don, O. R. Gale, Chas. Woodruff, J. T. Bussey, G. S. Coffman and William Bristow. Back row, ha 'f the semi-monthly payroll, agreements, and ultimately free left ",0 right, H. S. Sanford, Sidney Hodgson, Paul Begick, E. T. leipprandt and Clarence J. Reid. which is all I had r oected to do international trade, would deter- with the $10,000 ..... ne other half mine what each nation could pro- Nor was the' welfare of the in future years because, though it agriculture at Charlotte, we estab- of salaries we would continue to farmer being overlooked. In ~fay duce most economically, and each pay in preferr~d stock of the Bu- was drawn up as a short term lished .. the Junior Farm Bureau the Agricultural Adjustment Act measure to meet the desperate Department for people of 19 to could supply the other with its reau. Farmers -were keeping their needs. had been passed by Congress. needs of the day, our lawmakers 26 years, who are too old for 4-H monc\' at home now, in fin cans, The first thing to be done was to have regarded it as if it were' the Club and vocational work, but Chester Gray, legislative coun- l1lattr~sses. and socks, instead of reduce production to raise prices, ultimate word in agricultural leg- who are likely to be farming their sel of the American Farm Bureau hanking it, and were paying bills of course. But farm prices not islation, as if the farmer could own land soon. Federation followed Secretary in cash .. (In fact, farmers pre- onlv had to be raised in absolute forever rely upon government \Vhen cooperatives in Michi- 'Va 11ace on the program, and he felTed to do anything with their ten~s; they had to be raised in supports for his income. It is in- gan found themselves short of reflected the sentiments of the money to keep from putting it in proportion to the prices the farm- deed remarkable that a quarter capital in 1934 and 1935, the Michigan State Farm Bureau in banks, as we learned 'ateI' in 1933, er paid for. industrial goods. The of a century later, when the state ~fichigan State Farm Bureau opposing reciprocal trade agree- when the Bureau sold 7 % pre- AAA tried to accomplish this end ments. But in the twenty some ferred stock to finance the build- of the economv is so utterlv dif- turned to the St. Paul Bank for by paying farmers to kill little ferent, that mo'st of the basi~ fea- Cooperatives for aid for them. The vears that followed, the' wheel ing of a bulk petroleum station pigs and cows, to plow under ~vent full circle. The Bureau to- at Eau Claire. Subscriptions rang- tures of the AAA are still in effect. St. Paul Bank was reluctant to land (every third row of cotton) Our farms still over-produce, we lend the monev unconditionallv. day strongly supports reciprocal ing from $100 to 83 ..500 quickly already planted, and to withhold trade agreements, and the con- still remunerate farmers for with- Some cooperati~es had not be~n exhausted the issue.) Since we fields from cultivation. Payment sensus is that each agricultural drawing land from cultivation, we well managed. The Michigan couId remain operative by press- would come from the taxes im- region should grow what it is don't yet know what to do with State Farm Bureau therefore ing local coops to pay their ac- posed on the processing of farm best suited to grow. If we don't surpluses. It is no exaggeration agreed to supervise the manage- counts in currency, Assistant products. The proposed scale of buy goods from other nations, to say that if a farmer is ~ontent ment of each borrowing coopera- Treasmer Gilbert Gris\vold kept payment would bring the greatest they will lack funds with which to forego using his Initiative and tive; in return, the Bureau de- the $10,000 in the Farm Bmeau benefit to farmers who acceded to buy our goods. Again I must to live on a small income, he can manded that the cooperatives vault until the direct emergency to the government's wishes. A note how bold were the theoriz- exist by not farming his land.- handle only products of the Bu- arose. In 1934 it was placed in second part the AAA established ing and planning, and how cou- That is to say, it will pay him not reau. The St. Paul Bank never otlr checking account and used to rescue loans for second mortgages, rageous was the activity of the to engage in any sort of produc- lost a cent on any of these loans. pay current bills. and provided for marketin~ loans government in the thirties. It was tive enterprise. The cooperatives became major ~feanwhi1e an economic revolu- and credits to cooperatives. A Surelv this is a far crv from outlets for Bureau products, while for agriculhJre an era of innova- tion was taking place in the couu- third part of the Act further lib- what th'e men who concei~ed the retaining control of their own tion, and failing innovation, im- try. Prices continued their sick- eralized the monetary policies of AAA had in mind. In the thirties, policies. provisions. As I have said, it met ening decline in the first months the federal government. the intent was to restore self-re- the needs of the era. Had sound In the summer of 1935 a meet- economic adjustments rather than of 1~)33. The value of the dollar Enthusiasm for AAA made spect to men by making it possi- ing of all power companies and political expediency guided suc- as measured against goods climbed speculators active and farm prices ble for them to work. And the farm organizations, as well as and climbed. Hank after bank rose in June and July. But by legislative pussy-footing continues ceeding congresses, today we interested farmers, was called to might not be facing the identical failed and money got scarcer and December a decline set in again. - this, despite the fact that the deal with nlral electrification. A scarcer. ~Iost people attributed The difficultv was that the AAA parts of our agricultural economy, problems of surpluses, price sup- committee, one member of which ports, and subsidies. monev trouble to the mismanage- had been p;ssed too late in the such as livestock, which were al- was Melville B. McPherson of ment 'of the bankers, who, in gen- vear to affect farm prices before lowed to operate without controls Kent County, a Director of the In 1934 and 1935 the Bureau end, were cursed in very round 1934. On the other hand, the or subsidv once the crises past, Michigan State Farm Bureau, was suffered two grievous losses in terms. The Michigan State Farm NRA had taken effect immedi- are the o~ly healthy parts. Had appointed to make recommenda- personnel. M. L. Noon, presi- Bureau, with several other state atelv. The farmer, therefore, was succeeding government planners tions to the Michigan Public Util- dent, died on his fann near Jack- and national or~anizations, went in ; worse position than ever. In shown the imagination in meeting ities Commission. The Commis- son in 1934. In 1935, \Vatson so far as to propose that the November the Michigan State the needs of the time that were sion evenhlally ordered power \V. Billings of Genessee County, control of money and credit be Farm Bureau declared that the shown in 1933, American agricul- companies to construct lines wher- who succeeded Mike as president, placed in government-owned cen~ NRA "has been oppressive, rather ture would not be in its present ever there were five customers also died in office. Perhaps no tral banks, «which would be op- than helpful." On the state front plight. man is indispensable; certainly per mile who would guarantee a erated solek in the interest of the Bureau was meanwhile fight- revenue of $2.50 a month each. the business of the world can and the public,". If more money were ing a sales tax that discriminated BETTER TIMES The power companies deemed must go on without him. But not put in circulation to raise unfairly against the farmer. The some of us - Mike Noon and 1934 and 1935 were years of $150 per mile per year as a rea- prices, it appeared that deflation state sales tax was collected on 'Vatson Billings, for instance- considerable achievement. Ex- sonable rehlm on investment and would be the ruin of everyone retail sales. The Board of Tax seryt' bel'n raisl'don a proven growing program. zine. Almndant Health through i':atural tact: Alfred Roeder, Sl'necn, Kansas. 48891. Phone 268-5391. pair, and carcass at Michigan State Fair. The growin~ birds are inspected \\'t>ekly Livin!>!.Sample copy SOt. Write: RPII, (9-2t-15p) 36 (9-2t-17b) Montcalm County 6 Cut out data: 212 Ibs.,L5 hackfat, 29.7 bv traint>dstaff,vaccinated, debeaked and P.O. Box 113, Plymonth, Michi~an 48170. inches 5.6 loin evc area. 41 % ham and dclh ered by liS in clean crates. If you (9-2t-25p) 36 loin. 'Albert & Georgc Carpenter, 654.5 keep records,YOll will kl'ep KLAGER DE- "ZIPCODE DIRECTORY" - (All 35.000 Cogswell, Wayne. Michigan 48184. KALBS. KLAGER HATCHERIES. Brid~e- Postoffices): $1.00 ~IAIL~IART. Carroll- 14 FOR SALE (10-It-50p) 20 w:ltl'r,Michij:(an. Tell'phones: 313 429- ton 72. Kentucky 41008. (3-tf-11b) 14 ------ 7087 and 313 428-3034. (Washtennw COllnty) (9-lf-.50b) 26 PART TIME SALESMAN - to sell com- ABERDEE~ A~GUS. 7 blllls ..'53 females. HEREFORD BULLS-pure bred herd plete line of Dairy Barn Equipment from 3()stt't'r calves. Show 10 a.lll.SaIl'1 p.m. SHes. Readv for service. A Iso. re'!istered Midwest warehouse of n larJte Eastern SUITING FLA!,:J',;ELS. RICH F ASHIOX Saturday, Octoher 4th. LOWt'1\ 4-H Fair heifers and' calves. E"typt Valley Hereford manutacturer. \\Tritefor details. Standard Crounds. \\'cstMichigan Anglls Brl'edt'rs Farm, 6611 Knapp St., Ada. Michi"ran. Equipment, Inc., Department ~F:'I:,Bel COLORS. Luxurious Coprani Rayon-Ace- Association. (10-lt-2.5p) 14 Phone OR 6-1090. (Kent County) Air, Maryland 21014 tate. \Vashable. Crease resistant.Sa,'e! (1l-tf-25b) 20 (10-2t-30h) 18 Excitinlt sample collt'CtionlOt. Kroona Fabrics, 2005-F~I, Taylor, ~linnenpolis, DAY OLD OR STARTED PULLETS- ~Iinnesota 55418. (10-2t-23b) 36 20 LIVESTOCK The DeKalb profit pullet. AcC't'pted by 26 POULTRY the smart poultryman for high eg~ pro- dmtion, superior t'~~ IJunlity,~reater ft"t>d OVERSEAS JOBS - Austmlia, Europe, ~IODER:'I: Registered Herefords - BlIlIS, effit-iency.If YOll keep record~,you'llkeep WE CUSTO~f BUTCHER even'da'" and hred and open heifers cows with calves. SHAVER ST ARCROSS 288 - Started p~,I- Dt"Knlb~. Writt" for priCl'Sand ('at:llo~. South America, Far East, etc. Openings in all trades and professions. 5400 to pick-up. If you are in the 313' :ut'"a. our Tested high Ids n\'nilablt> Prinee anel Regt'nt hloo'dIinl's. most ('verymonth. Get wIse KLAGER HATCHERIES. Brid~ewatl'f. $2,500 monthly. free information. Write: phone number is: 727-1450. Alsc smokt"d !lerformanct'.Clean. Phone 61 fl8flfl-1888. and try tht'setop profit makt'rs as YOllr ~Ikhigan. Telephonl's: Salint' HA7.l"l Forehm Employment Mart, Box 2235 ham. bacon ... make your sausa~e. Rich- Visit GrandVallt')' Ranch, 8300 Cannons- nt'xt flot:k. MncPherson Hntdwry, Routt' 9-7087, ~Janchestt>rGArdl.n 8-3034. #3 Ionia Michigan. Phont' 527-0860. A.M.F., Miami, Florida 33159. mond Meat Packers, 68104 Main St.,Rich- hurg Rd., Cllnnonsbur~, Michigan. " (6-3t-28b) 26 (Washtenaw Count)') (tf-46b) 26 (lO-lt-31p) 36 mond, Mich .• 8062 (7-12t-30b) 36 (7-4t-30b) 20 SIXTEEN October 1, 1969 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS TAX-FREE RETIREMENT PLANS ARE HERE.u • . . . and two of Michigan's lead- ing agricultural organizations have them. Michigan Milk Pro- ducers Association pioneered the first statewide retirement plan for their members last December. On September 6, 1969, the Michigan Live Stock Exchange Board approved a similar tax-sheltered member- ship program. SPECIALLY TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS. The Keogh Act ha~ made tax-free retirement plans for the self-employed possible. And Farm Bureau Insurance Group provides them. You can invest in your own retirement fund through your organization or association. Use 10% of your busi- ness income up to $2,500 ... then dedllct the amount from your income tax as a business expense. Find out how. Call your local Farm Bureau Insurance man today. FARM BUREAU --INSURANCE GROUP Farm Bureau Mutual. Farm Bureau Life. Community Service, LANSING