M DCD=IDOAN THE ACTION ~ I FARM PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU NEWS Vol. 49, No. 12 THE NEW A$E December 1 107n Judy CJJeltreIlW'ald 1971 'MicJygaIl rparfit CJJureau Queell Board State Cherry ON THE INSIDE: Ann=~~ent Page 2 Members Pages 5, 14, FB Policies Pages 7-14 Mkt'g Order Page 15 PullOut Section: '71 STATE FARM BUREAU POLICY STATEMENTS TWO December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS EDITORIAL ••• It THEAE'S A WAY TO GET HELP, NEIGHBOR •• " I PRESIDENT'S COLUMN -------------------------- Editor.s Note: This A month's President's Column features ran- Personal dom excerpts from President Smith's An- Copy nual Address "The New Age of Agricul- ture" given before the of Michigan Fann Bu- reau delegation at the MFB 1970 Annual Meeting in the Grand Rapids Policies Civic Auditorium, Monday, November 9. This issue of the Fann News contains a copy "Our forefathers were pioneers of new land of policies of the Michigan Farm Bureau on and that was their frontier. And like our fore- state and Fann Bureau functions as adopted fathers, the farmer of today is a member of a by the voting delegates at the 51st annual vast and new frontier. A frontier that requires meeting. professional knowledge and action to win the The national policy recommendations have issues of the day. Our frontier is with people, been omitted as they will be presented to the in educating them to the needs of our agricul- voting rl ~legates at the annual meeting of the ture, and in teaching them that agriculture is American Farm Bureau Federation which will their most precious natural resource. be held in Houston, Texas, December 6-10. "As fanners we are paying over twenty May we suggest that you save the center percent of our net income for property taxes, eight pages of this issue as your personal copy while non-farmers pay only about three-and- of the 1971 policies of your organization. a-half- percent. That's inequitable and we Each year Farm Bureau members are given fanners have the responsibility to change it. the opportunity to participate in the policy "In Michigan, it has been estimated that development process. This process involves uncontrolled urban growth will eliminate 20 1,100 community groups, county commodity of the 22 best agricultural counties during the committees, 71 county annual meetings and next thirty years. We farmers must work to- eight statewide advisory committees. This year's 512 delegates to the Michigan Special Announcement gether to protect our good agricultural land. Farm Bureau annual meeting expressed their "The need to rid the world from hunger must though~ on nearly 150 widely differing policy The Michigan Farm Bureau is offering a new service to be met. But our tools that produce the finest matters during the three-day meeting. its membership ... an Order-by-Mail plan for members food of the world, in the largest quantity and The attitude that prevailed throughout the of the Michigan Fann B~eau and their families only. quality, are being held back out of boundless meeting is well expressed in part of the FO RE- fear, created by unlimited propaganda. WARD to the resolutions as adopted: Each month an array of merchandise ranging from 8- 'Such unfounded stories that could support a "We believe society's concern with pollution track stereo tape sets to coffee pots will be offered. healthy agriculture must be challenged by should extend to the pollution of the mind. agriculture and be defeated. With increasing crime, widespread use of drugs, In its first offer, such manufacturers as Mirro, world's "Our Farm Bureau is instrumental insupport- ~k of resv.ect for our heritage of self-govem- largest producers of cookware; Ross Electronics, one of the ~~~w,{ its p;'ltection of the individual, we ing the effort for action to cure these problems leading names in the radio, tape recorder and electronics and was successful this year when the doors caU on all people to n:.~.:.."their faith in our field; Hamilton Beach, a leader in the manufacture of historical institutions, such as church and home. opened on the new Pesticide Research Center blenders, electric knives and other kitchen aids; Bisco, on the Michigan State UDiversity campus. We point out that people, with their attitudes, beliefs and skills, are America's most important manufacturer of gift items; the Baltimore Luggage Com- "California vineyards show mankinQs c0n- resource." pany; Sheffield Watch Company and others. tinual conflict. Many grape vineyards are unionized. Workers must sign with the union MEMBERSHIP IN FARM BUREAU The Michigan Farm Bureau Order-by-Mail plan is being or get fired. It's that simply and cold blood- handled by Wil-Way Premiums, Inc., of Adrian, Michigan. edly done. There is no freedom of choice in "Membership must always come first - with- out membership, an organization is without this program. In the advertisement on page 17, the suggested retail muscle." This was a part of the annual report price of the manufacturer' is listed, followed by the Order- ''The United Farm Workers Ort?ninng C0m- of Michigan Farm "Bureau Secretary-Manager mittee (UFWOC) is establishing itseH in Mich- Dan E. Reed given to the delegate body at the by-Mail plan cost to Michigan Farm Bureau members. igan. It is on the move and we Michigan folks annual meeting in November, 1967. Michigan sales tax indicated by sit and shipping costs to will have to deal with it." The same basic principle applies to any the home of the purchaser are additional. "We farmers, I believe, must agree that our organization today. All merchandise will be delivered by United Parcel goal must be to control our production of food Membership in the Farm Bureau is important Service and is insured up to $100. Some of the merchandise and fiber. Forty years of government £ann to every farmer in Michigan. It is one means programs have not brought us the prosperity whereby farmers can join together and discuss will be shipped directly from the manufacturer. Because agriculture deserves: It's time for a change! problems that affect agriculture, arrive at of this, allow for a minimum of three weeks delivery. sound conclusions, formulate action and strive "It can get done when farmers quit talking for results. United P-arcel Service makes deliveries by street address about cooperative theory and take more co-- During the past two years over ten thousand only. If the member does not have a street address, indi- operative action! new members have joined ,our organization cate directions to your home on the order blank. "Marketing and bargaining in cooperatives which is a clear indication that farmers do de- is the key to the future success of the NEW sire to unite together for a common cause. It Merchandise offered through the Michigan Farm Bu- AG AGE. I urge all farmers, with an their is also an indication that Farm Bureau is an reau Order-by-Mail carries the warranty of the manufac- talents, to take the marketing theory off the organization on the move with the "muscle" turer, thus. insuring the buyer of high quality merchandise. shelf and put it to practice. to accomplish a job for farmers - be it legis- "For this change, Farm Bureau has developed lation, marketing, community betterment, eco- and is supporting an agricultural marketing and nomic services or information. bargaining act. With the passage of this act, Carl P. Kentner ~ agriculture can be better assured of a firm MICHIGAN IFARM NEWS, market. THE ACTlON PUBLlCATlON O~ THe MICHIOAN ~ARM BUREAU "The member is the heart of our growing The MICHIGAN FARM NEWS is DIRECTORS: District 1, Arthur published monthly, on the first day, Bailey, Schoolcraft; District 2, Dean Farm Bureau. Our organization is on the grow by the Michil!:an Fann Bureau, at its publication office at 109 N. Lafayette Pridgeon, Montgomery, R-I; District 3, - and in 1970, it increased its membership rolls Andrew Jackson, Howell, R-I; Dis- 5treet, Greenville, Michi,:tan. Editorial and ~eneral office! at 4000 trict 4, Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, R-I; in every county Farm Bureau for the second North Grand River Avenue, Lansin$t, District 5, David Morris, Grand Ledge, year in a row. Also for the third year in suc- Michigan 48904. Post Office Box 960. R-3; District 6, Jack Laurie, Cass City, Telephone, LansinJt 485-8121, Exten- R-3; District 7. Kenneth Bull, Bailey, cession our Michigan Farm Bureau has re- sion 317. Subscription price, 50~ per R-I; District 8, Harvey Leuenberger, vear. Saginaw, R-6; District 9, Eugene Rob- corded a total membership gain. . Established January 12, 1923. Sec- ond Class Postage paid at Greenville, erts. Lake City, R-l; District 10, "Membership volunteers are truly the 'right Michill:an. Richard Wieland, Ellsworth, R-I; Dis- EDrrORIAL: Editor, Carl P. Kent- trict 11, Franklin Schwiderson, Dafter. hand' of Farm Bureau, and we salute you. ner; Associate Editor, Vem M. Bullen; Advertising Manager, Carl P. Kentner; DIRECTORS Frahm, Frankenmuth; AT LARGE: Wa-Iter James L. Sayre, "In the years ahead, we must continue to de- Artist, Nonnan Goodling. Belleville; Calvin Lutz. Kaleva. cide the question: WHO WILL SPEAK FOB OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bu- reau; President, Elton R. Smith, Cale- WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Jerold Topliff, Eaton Rapids, MI'3. R-I; FARMERS? donia, R-l; Vice President, Dean Pridgeon, Montgomery, R-l; Secretary- FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARM- .'Farmer unity and efficiency must continue Manager, Dan E. Reed, Lansing. ERS: David Diehl, Dansville. to progress for the survival of our business it- POSTMASTER: In using form 3579, mail to: Michigan Farm News, 4000 N. self. And I am confident it will continue to Grand River, lansing, Michigan 4904 improve." Second clan postag. paid at Grnnvill., Michigan Elton R. Smith MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 THREE Policy Decisions Are Made .. Tillle For Action - by Robert E. Smith Farm Bureau The county delegates at the lawmakers. For instance, the The Governor's Task Force on State Farm Bureau Annual Meet- Justices of the Michigan Supreme Agricultural Problems, found in ing in Grand Rapids made the Court receive a raise of $7,000 its many hearings throughout the final decisions on Farm Bureau a year, the Governor a $5,000 a state that the property tax is con- policy for 1971. It is now time year increase, and Legislators an sidered to be the number one for all Farm Bureau members to increase of $2,000 a year. Their problem facing agriculture. acquaint themselves with those current $3,000 a year expense al- policies and do whatever possible lowance will be cut to $2,750 per Restoration of Tax Credit to help carry them out in the year. These increases will go into coming year. A pull-out section effect on January 1 unless the Last year, the Legislature re- in this issue contains all of the new Legislature, by a two-thirds pealed the property tax credit State policies that were adopted. vote, rejects the proposal. The against the state income tax. This, Hopefully, every Farm Bureau increases were considerably less in effect, created an additional member will save this section; than had been recommended by tax burden on all property own- take time to read those policies some legislators and others. (For ers, but especially on farmers. The and be ready to help in any way instance, one of the recommenda- repeal, however, was for a one- to work toward goals that have tions was that supreme court year period and the tax credit will been set. Michigan's voting dele- justices should receive an in- automatically go back into effect gates will help determine Farm crease of $22,000, bringing them unless the Legislature again re- Bureau policies on national and up to a $57,000 salary.) ,These peals it. Efforts will be made to international affairs at the Na- increases will no doubt result in maintain this credit unless other tional Convention early in De- salary increases for all judges in more significant property tax re- cember. the entire court system. lief is forthcoming. County Farm Bureau Policy Wages will also rise for the Development Committees, to- state's 47,000 classified worke;s. FARM LABOR gether with County Annual Meet- The State Civil Service Commis- ing decisions, again resulted in Another top issue facing farm- sion is recommending an increase another record number of recom- ers this year within the state and of 9.8%. Whatever increase is ac- mendations from the counties to nation-wide is the area of organi- cepted, it will add up to $42 mil- the State Policy Development zation of agricultural workers. lion to the cost of state govern- Committee. The quality of the The insidious boycott technique ment. This, too, can also only recommendations indicate that be changed by a two-thirds vote of forcing farmers and workers Ag Task Force Reports To Governor Farm Bureau members in the alike into signing labor contracts of the Legislature. The auto wage counties had given a great deal has been perfected in California. Property tax relief was the Number One recommendation settlement' was used as an argu- It was first used on grapes and heard by the Governor's Task Force on the Future of Agriculture of thought to the many issues ment for the wage increase for facing agriculture. now is being used on lettuce. in its hearings around the State. state employees. Michigan is expected to be af- In order to carry out policies fected by this same technique. In its report presented to Governor Milliken on December 1, dealing with legislative matters, State School Aid Costs Up While the secondary boycott is the Task Force recognized the need for tax reform as its Number it is essential that the legislative School finance reform, if car- illegal in industry under NLRA, One recommendation. team be ready for action. This ried out, will also create a need it is apparently legal in agricul- team consists of legislative com- for increased state taxes, especi- ture and can be used to "rule or In second spot, the report places recommendations to assist mittees on state and national af- ally if any significant reduction is ruin." farmers in more effectively and efficiently marketing farm fairs in each county, together with made in property taxes for school products. The report recommends legislation calling for filing the Minutemen in the Community purposes. The state aid act passed Presently, there are no state or of contracts offered by processors, posting of prices prior to Groups, ,and also with a great de~l this last session contains the major federal labor laws setting up legal delivery, prompt payment for farm commodities, and deduction of assitance from various other elements of the "Spencer Plan," guidelines and regulations deal- of marketing service fees by processors when approved .by forces such as the Women's Com- including a limitation on property ing with farm labor organization producers. The report also urges additional marketing specialists mittee, Young Farmers Commit- taxes for school operation and problems. If Congress continues in both the Extension Service and the Michigan Deparbnent tee, County Boards of Directors provisions for a state aid formula to fail to act on legislation setting of Agriculture. and individual Farm Bureau mem- to assist in building' school facili- bers. It is only through a co- ties or paying for debt retirement up an Agricultural Labor Rela- Farm Labor on List ordinated team effort that prog- and provision for allowing school tions Board to set labor guidelines ress can be made toward reaching districts to use the income tax as in agriculture, it may be necessary Other items spotlighted in the letter of transmittal to the policy goals. a source of local revenue. to seek state legislation. Califo'- Governor included: The following is a summary of The plan guarantees that the nia Farm Bureau is presently - Farm labor legislation on federal andlor state level to some of the issues that can be yield from property taxes in poor preparing such a bill. Here in protect producers and consumers against loss of crops through expected in the coming legislative districts per pupil, will be the Michigan, Farm Bureau is study- work stoppages at harvest or other critical periods. session: same as it would be in a well-to- ing the various alternatives. - Legislation providing tax relief for farm property in urban- do district with $30,000 of prop- STATE BUDGET AND erty valuation behind each pupil. Other farm labor issues in the izing area (H.B. 2533) to aid in creation of green acres of TAX REVENUE It would also guarantee that the state will again include further open space. yield from any local income tax - Stepped-up research on methods of crop and animal pest It appears that state tax reve- extension of the Workmen's Com- for school purposes would be the control to replace chemicals now under fire. nues must be increased. This will, same per pupil throughout the pensation Laws, possible exten- in turn, be highly controversial as sion of unemployment insu'rance - Development of efficient methods of handling agricultural state. to how it can be accomplished. The state aid act also, for the to agriculture, as well as further wastes to combat pollution. The state budget adopted this past year was thrown out of bal- first time, included a significant regulation of many areas dealing - Continued recognition of society's obligation to assist ance by possible deficit of some amount of money, $16 million, for with labor, such as housing codes, farmers in providing improved housing for seasonal farm work- $62 million. Because of constitu- vocational education, which in- stricter safety laws, employment ers. tional requirements prohibiting directly helps to relieve school of young people,' etc., etc. Want Fanner Representation deficit state spending, it was nec- districts of this extra burden. essary to cut back in many areas. Before these proposals go into - Appointment of agricultural representation to the Mich- Environment Most of the expected deficit in effect, they will be reconsidered igan Natural Resources Commission. the budget resulted from the by the new Legislature: In addi- Ecology and environment will The Task Force also included a number of other recommenda- UAW strike against General Mo- tion, the Legislature will also continue to be a major issue. have to provide the source of tions, as well as some supplementary recommendations which tors. This amounted to at least H.B. 3055, passed this last year $50 million of the expected $62 additional funds to offset the have application in particular areas of the State. permitting most anyone to sue million deficit. This came from shifting of some of the cost of In carrying out the charge given the Task Force by Governor schools from the property tax. anyone else for alleged pollution. strike-related costs, including Milliken, a schedule of 17 meetings was held around the State about $25 million loss in revenue It has only recently gone into ef- to permit the Task Force to hear farmers state their problems and another $25 million increase Farm Assessments fect and has not yet been used and offer possible solutions. in welfare costs. The taxation and assessment of to any great extent. Court actio~ farmland will again be a major brought against approximately a The Tasl< Force has expressed its appreciation to the several Most of the budget cuts were not long-run savings. In many issue. H.B. 2533 ("green acres" half-dozen farmers in the past hundred farmers who assisted through their participation in cases, such as deferment of build- bill) passed both houses in the developing the recommendations presented to the Governor. year have been under the' old ing projects, they merely shifted previous session; however, it was bottled up at the last moment in statutes. expenditure until a later date. "Will Give Consideration" - Governor the House Appropriations Com- Marketing mittee. In spite of this, good "I will give every serious consideration to the recommenda- State Salaries Up A review of the policies passed tions of the Task Force in the development of my Message to progress has been made and more Cost will rise in the coming and more people are beginning at the State Annual Meeting will the Legislature in January," said Governor Milliken in request- year for a variety of reasons- to recognize that Michigan should indicate many areas where legis- ing a report by December 1. one, the general increases due to other states in the special taxation lation is needed to bring equity inflation; another, however, is the of farmland, not only because of The following were named to the Task Force by the Gov- fact that the State Officers Com- and fairness to the marketplace ernor: Dan E. Reed, Chairman, Duane Baldwin, Mrs. Eric the burden on actual farmers, but pensation Commission has ap- also in order to encourage the for' growers of many commodities Furu, Robert Craig, Karl Wright (replaced Arthur Mauch, who proved across-the-board pay in- preservation of this most import- not presently protected under retired), loa Penzien, Rep. Stanley Powell, Mrs. Seth Tompkins, creases for top state officials and ant natural resource. state laws. Senator Charles Zollar and John Dempsey. FOUR Decem her 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Annual ReportJ MFB WonzenJs Conz1nittee Chr. Maxine Topliff "My report this year is about while I'm sure you'd say she was wheels. In the fanning business perpetual motion. Helen, we are we use many wheels, tractor proud to have you for the drive wheels, wagon wheels, big shaft of this steering wheel and wheels, little wheels, just all kinds I guess it's the drive out in our of wheels. The first wheel I want counties that keeps you so busy. to tell you about isn't made of "So ladies, this is the story of rubber or iron, but it a 'real-live- our present Fann Bureau Steer- people-wheel' and let's call it a ing wheel. \Ve have some who steering wheel. Each of you in are retiring from our committee this room is or may be a part of this year. and I.want you to meet it, so let me tell you about it. Let's them. First, Eleanor Honkala start way at the outside or rim of who served as chainnan of Dis- this wheel. Will each county vice trict 11W and these other ladies chairman of the Farm Bureau who have served as vice chairmen women please stand and remain 'of their Districts. They are Ruth women's program. Our State split three ways this year. One SIX COUNTY WOMEN'S COMMITTEES 'Women's Committee meetings student is pre-veterinary, one a ... were honored at the Women's standing? Ladies, you are an im- Dowd, from District 1; Helen Awards Program during their annual portant part of this wheel. You Nixon, District 3; Betty Mar- are found in this wheel. We've teacher, and one an Ag. Eco- meeting luncheon. Helen Atwood, Co- are responsible for setting up the quardt, District 5; Neta Call, Dis- had two of these meetings nomics major. The scholarship ordinator, MFB Women's Activities, com. program of work in your county. trict 9; and Marilyn McNally from this year where we carry on the committee met early last spring mended all the women for their par- business of the committee, plan and interviewed the applicants. ticipation the past year and their \Vill each county Farm Bureau lIE. Thank you ladies for a job evidence of increased interest in Farm women's chairman please stand well done. a program of work for the coming They are all worthy, so you pick Bureau activities. Counties of Michigan now? You are the inner rim of year and have training for our and choose until you have those were divided into three membership this wheel and you ladies are the "Now that you've met your committee members so they may who need your help most. groups. Certificates of award and checks key in your county that starts steering wheel, I want to give you better assist members in their were presented to the county representa- a definition of a wheel: "a wheel districts in planning the program "Michigan Mother of the Year tives. In the counties of 400 members this wheel in motion. You are program is a happy occasion too. or less, Chippewa county placed first responsible to your Farm Bureau with projecting handles for con- of work best suited to your needs. This year five of the Merit (Mrs. Carolyn Wilson, Chairman) and women to carry out the program trolling the rudder of a ship." Many of you know that this was Mac.-Luce. second. Mrs. Fayne Gribbel/ Our 'ship is Farm Bureau, so let's the first year for a Disrtict Pro- Mothers are Farm Bureau women, is Mac.-Luce. chairman. In the second of work they have adopted for the and Mrs. Carl Abel of Hudson is year. I urge each of the county look at some of the handles we gram planning workshop and membership group category, Montcalm have used in our projects this from all reports these were a 1970 State Mother of the Year. county chairman Mrs. Dorothy Perkins Women's Executive committees to She and her husband operate a accepted their first place award. The meet with the Executive commit- year. In order for any organiza- great success. Your district of- second place award was presented to tion to exist you have members ficers, regional representatives poultry farm and are "participat- Shiawassee county. Mrs. Marion Sutton tee of the county Farm Bureau ing life members of Farm Bu- board to study ways you may and it's good to see how many of and Helen Atwood worked to- is the chairman of the committee. In you worked on the membership gether to help you plan programs reau." Does your county have the largest membership group category, work together in your county on an outstanding mother? Why not Mrs. Olis Hudson, chairman of the Liv- the total county Farm Bureau campaign. We are a family mem- and projects to fit your own ingston county Farm Bureau Women's bership organization so it's only county ...needs. We will have a nominate her? program. You are doing a great committee, received the first place job, but let's strive to make it right that we as women do help in 3rd, one day meeting of the com- "Sewing and craft contests in award. Second place winner was Kent the membership campaign. When mittee this year. This will be county. Mrs. Evelyn Rodgers is chair- even better. \-Vill you all join me your counties is another of our man of this group. as we applaud these county chair- one hand helps the other you tomorrow night, Nov. 10. This fun and, hopefully, greater mem- men and vice-chairmen for the can carry on many worthwhile is new this year. ber participation' projects. You good job they do? activities. asked for crafts to be added to "Another of our educational of the Michigan Medical Society "Project MRS (market research programs is our District Rallies the needlework of last year. lle Auxiliary. Some of these organi- "The spokes of this wheel are sure to see the craft exhibit across our District Vice Chairmen. These survey) might well be another or as you call them District Meet- zations have projects or programs handle of our wheel. You ladies ings. We had speakers on "New the hall immediately following we can work on too. ladies, together with our District our adjournment. Chairmen, form our entire work- have made some surveys and will Trends in School Curriculum" make more, but it does take time "We did increase our cherry ing, program planning commit- where we listened to some of the "Norway 1971, yes that too is to get a survey set up that will new approaches to teaching. We sales this year. We sold 3534, tee. The vice chairman is the a work, fun, learning experience 3D-pound tins. Let's work harder chairman of the program planning give the most information to the were told that if we were con- coming. However, there are con- greatest number of people, so cerned the place to go was to our next year. committee and I want you to meet ditions. Limited space being the these ladies. From District l, please have patience on this one. oWl local school as they set the prime condition of how many "As you can see many wheels Betty Rhoda; District 2, Ruth curriculum. Our fall district meet- people can go. Many Michigan have been in motion this year "Our Washington Seminar is Crouch; District 3, Nancy Gieger; ing speaker was Mr. M. J. Busch- people would like very much to accomplis-hing many tasks and another handle. This is another District 4, Evelyn Rhoddes; Dis- len who told us about MASA and go, but this is not possible. MFB setting sights on goals not yet joint effort of the women. and trict 5, Linda Jennings; District Farm Labor. There was much women may send just a total of attained. Time is the one thing county boards in many counties 6, Doris Mahaffy; District 7, food for thought in what Mr. nine people. If you are a con- we all seem to have trouble with. and to me, this is the way it Louise Wagoner; District 8, Mar- Buschlen told us. The MASA is tributing member, you probably , I said once I didn't have time to should be. Yes, the women do tha Baker; District 9, Loraine a member of our Farm Bureau have gotten an application from do a certain task and was re- sponsor it, but the whole county Lutz; District lOE, Edna Timm; family and it is my hope that we ACWW to attend. If you did minded that that was not quite Farm Bureau benefits from the District lOW, Phila Shanahan; Seminar. can all become better acquainted get one, fill it out and send it true, that what I really meant District llE, Faye Gribbell, and with each of our Farm Bureau back and trust that you may be was, it was not on my priority District 11W, Teri Tikkanen. "Our fourth handle might be family members. Earlier we said lucky enough to be able to go as list. This was right, so since then Your State Vice Chairman, Doris Michigan Women for Highway Farm Bureau was our ship so we a contributing member. We are if a task needs doing, "take time" Wieland, is chairman of the State Safety. This organization is about should learn what is in our ship sorry that all who want to go and this little poem says it just Program Planning Committee. a year old now a~d has a com- that can help us in our own farm- won't be able to. right. mittee in many of our counties. ing operation. "The hub of this wheel is next Many of you ladies are either "The last propelling wheel we and your District chairman do a chairmen of, or serving on your "There are spring and fall dis- will look at today is the wheel fine job of binding the spokes to- county committee. It's good to trict council meetings. These are of progress. We need to take a Take time to think- gether. It is with a great deal see so many people interested in well attended and at your fall look at our operating rules often, It is the source of power. of pride and pleasure I introduce finding ways to cut traffic fatal- meetings you had some commu- updating them to meet the ever to you your State Farm Bureau ities. nications training. Learning the changing needs of our county. Take time to play- Women's Committee. Alice Bur- right way to communicate is fun. It's sad, but true, that we ha~e It is the secret of perpetual youth. andt from District 1; Alice Lee, "The next handle on our wheel H you have a chance to take this less community groups than we District 2; Claudine Jackson, Dis- might well be our Young People's training, please do, you']] be did but we still rely on groups Take time to read- trict 3; Leora Smith, District 4; Citizenship Seminar. This too is glad you did. primarily for our committee mem- It is the fountain of wisdom. Maud Bristol, District 5; Marga- another project of our total Farm bers. Some counties are taking ret Welke, District 6; Grace Bureau, but women i n many "Another mound of clay on nur a .long hard look and coming up Take time to pray- Greenhoe, District 7; Marie counties do work on this worth- potters wheel is College wee,k for WIth other ways of involving more It is the greatest power on earth. Swindlehurst, District 8; Ruth while project. We have two of women. This was held in June of our membership in our wom- Cooper, District 9; Margaret Kar- these Seminars, one in the Upper at MSU and is sponsored by the en's program. Have we checked Take time to love and be loved- tes, District lOE; Bertha Parsons, Peninsula in June and where 65 Family Living Dept. of Cooper- with our county boards and re- It is a God-given privilege. District lOW; Marie Postma who students participated. The other ative Extension Service. Farm gional representatives for pros- is also the 3rd member of the one was held at Central Mich. Bureau women worked on the pective committee members, pro- Take time to be friendly- executive committee, District 11E Univ. in July and 181 students planning committee and helped in grams and projects in which we took part in this one. the publicity. This is another It is the road to ha"."ine88. and Mille Corey, District l1W. can work together? You see we Your V ice Chairman is Doris W ie- learning experience and we do "The remaining handle on our encourage more of you Farm Bu- don't plow with horses an~ore, Take time to laugh- land, my name is Maxine Topliff we ke,ep updating our equipment wheel is the rural-urban activities reau women to attend. It is the music of the soul. and you ladies elected me to be carried on in many counties. Have so let s keep pace with our pro- your chairman. grams to keep up with today's you ever thought of an exchange "There is another wheel we Take time to give- "The incentive that keeps this day with an urban homemaker? find in use on our farms and that needs. It is too ,hort a day to be .elfi6h. wheel in motion and running "Another wheel I find in our is the pivot wheel. Let's pivot "Your Women's State Executive smoothly is our coordinator, Helen activites is a potter's wheel. This just a little and look at ')ome of Take time to work- committee has met several times Atwood. You've heard of per- is a rotating wheel used to shape the fun things you've participated It is the price of success." this year for business and to meet petual motion, well if you fol- clay. Our clay might be the edu- in this year. The Marge-Karker- ~th women from other organiza- lowed in Helen's footsteps for a cational or training paIj of our Farm Bureau Scholarship was tions. One group was the officers Mrs. Jerold (Maxine) Topliff MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 FIVE NEW UPPER PENINSULA Three new geographical names FARM BUREAU UNITS made up of Delta county, the 3 New FBS Board Members three new Farm Bureau units. have been added to Michigan By official action of the indivrdual east portion of Marquette and Farm Bureau. For several years, county Farm Bureaus, Baraga, Alger county with William Co- 71 county units were listed as Houghton, Keweenaw and Onton- nine, Trenary, as president. The making up the Michigan Farm agon now are listed as_the Cop- Iron Range Farm Bureau brought Bureau Association. Since their per Country Farm Bureau and together Iron, Dickinson and the annual meetings in October, sev- are under the presidency of Leon- west portion of Marquette coun- eral counties in the Upper Penin- ard Ollila, Houghton. ties. Frank Tuchowski is presi- cuIa have reorganized and formed Hiawathaland Farm Bureau is dent MEMBERS OF FARM BUREAU SERVICES board of directors, (seat- ed, left to right), Eugene Roberts, executive Committee; Elton R. Farm Bureau Smith, president; Dean Pridgeon, executive committee. Standing, (left to right), Kenneth Bull, John Converse, loren Black, Walter Frahm, Loren Gettel, Elmo Heft, Harvey leuenberger, Rudy Yost, James Clark and David Morris. Three new members were elec- In his annual message to the memberships are ted to the Board of Directors of stockholders and guests, President Farm Bureau Services at the co- Elton Smith noted the strong operative's annual meeting which trend of reducing operating costs was held November 9, 1970, in and losses and the increase in Grand Rapids. operating margins. He also spoke The new directors are: Loren of the consolidation of company Black, Traverse City, who oper- functions and elimination of du- 1 up 5 /2°/0 while ates a beef and cherry farm in plications, improvement of com- Grand Traverse county and serves munications with farmers, deal- as a member of the advisory board ers, and suppliers, plant facility for the Farm Bureau Services improvement in fertilizer and branch in Traverse City; James feeds. Smith spoke of new ven- Clark, Onondaga, specializes in tures in marketing and increased Michigan farms feeder cattle, is past president of services to farmers. . Eaton County Farm Bureau and Executive Vice President Don- a member of Eaton Farm Bureau ald R. Armstrong reported the Cooperative board and Elmo years operation to the stockhold- Heft, Conklin. Mr. Heft is a ers in a slide presentation. He dairy farmer in Ottawa county, is noted that only the farmer-buyer, chairman of the Coopersville Co- through the use of the cooper- are down operative board and president of ative, can make the best plans of Michigan Farms (Estimate) the Western Michigan Holstein Farm Bureau Services become Breeders Association. successful. 185,700 ~ 80,800 ::: 77,000 ~ Freedoms Foundation Award Accepted 1 bq 8 /2°/0 1968 1969 1970 Concerned farmers are now realizing the worth of Farm Bureau supply and marketing services. While total Michigan farms decreased by 8-1/2% in three years, Farm Bureau membership actually increased 5-1/2%. The Freedoms Foundation George Washington Honor Medal Farm Bureau Services' competitive prices, dis- Award was accepted by Farm Bureau Insurance Group Vice counts and dividends plus national and inter- President Nile L. Vermillion at the Farol Bureau Annual Meet- national marketing know-how, give members that ing banquet. Supreme Court Justice John R. Dethmers made the presentation. The banquet was held in the Grand Rapids productivity and profit edge they need right Civic Auditorium, Monday, November 9. now. Find out what Farm Bureau Services can The Honor Medal, awarded to the Lansing-based insurance do for you. Ask your local dealer, or write: Farm firm for the second consecutive year, was earned in 1969 for Bureau Services, Inc., Lansing, Michigan 48904. sponsoring the Freedoms Foundation Essay Contest for eighth grade students throughout Michigan. Some 900 students in 96 schools participated. This unique community relations program was first intro- duced in 1968 for Lansing eighth graders. The contest wa~ well accepted and ultimately expanded in 1969 to a statewide cO!1- petition, with the topic, "What the U. S. Flag ~Ieans To ~1e.' In making the George Washington Honor Medal Awad Where Your Farm Comes First presentation, Justice Dethmers said, "This campaign encouragL! 1 youth to write their thoughts about the U. S. Flag ins~,tred FaR ~ patriotism while revealing Ameircan youth's remarkable in)ight and political acumen." This year's third annual month-long essay contest competition was conducted in February, beginning on George Washington's Birthday. Participating in the 1970 contest were 3,500 students from 204 Michigan schools. The top essays were forwarded to Bureau FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge for entry in National competition. Awardces in the 1970 National competition will be announced in February, 1971. Farm Bureau Insurance Group is a multiple line firm operat- ing throughout Michigan with an agency force of 350. Policy- holders number approximately 230,000. Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge is a nonprofit, non- political, nonsectarian, educational organization created to achieve a better understandi:pg of the basic principles underlyinf the Republic and"to encourage Americans to be more articulat 013 about freedoms in today's America. December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS SIX patio furniture, was Mrs. Randall Notes From AllOver MAFC ANNUAL MEETING Meyers of Ottawa County. The winner of the second prize, DA, will be the main speaker of All county Farm Bureaus were honored at the annual meeting the program. Dr. Thor has de- a 12" RCA Portable TV set, was banquet. County presidents (or their appointed representative) grees from the U. of Nebraska, George Lindgren of Oceana accepted special certificates, recognizing their counties for out- Florida and California and is ac- County. standing activities in Membership, by Farm Bureau Women, tive on many farmer related com- and in their Young Farmer and Community Group programs mittees, both state wide and The third, fourth and fifth and Commodity Marketing. nationally. place entrants, won Char-Broil Chippewa County president E. DeWitt accepted the top Committee and officers reports barbecue sets. Winners of these Five Star Award for his county. Chippewa became the first' and election of administrative prizes were: Mr. C. W. Smith Five Star winner in the history of ~fichigan Farm Bureau. council members for 1 year terms of Washtenaw County; William ~fontcalm county earned a Four Star Award under the presi- are also on the agenda. Holdwick of Huron County and dency of James Quisenberry. Wilbur Herbst of Livingston Three Star winning counties and their presidents were: County. Monhnorency and Hilbert Schultz; Osceola and Buel Boyd and \\GRAPESTAKES" Presque Isle and Hugo Sorgenfrei. These three counties won The objective of the "GRAPE- CONTEST WINNERS their stars in Membership and Community Groups. A Three Star STAKES" contest was to increase Award for Membership and Women's activities was earned by the market for California table Lyle Glover from Livingston county and by Edgar Austin, Van grapes, help preserve the right of Buren county, for Membership and Commodity marketing. DR. ERIC THOR all farmers to market their crops, Benzie county, Donald Nugent, and \Vashtenaw county, Ar- continue the right of consumers min Weidmayer, earned Three Star Awards for Membership and MAFC's (Michigan Association to purchase the products they de- Young Farmer activities. For Membership and Community of Farmers Cooperatives) Annual , sire, and maintain the right of Group activities were Cheboygan, Gerald Brown; Emmet with Meeting and State Co-op Clinic will be held December 15 at the farm workers to decide for them- Robert Hand; Marquette-Alger and William Conine and Me- nominee county with president Roy Rasner. Steinhaus (6025 W. Saginaw, selves whether or not to join a Two star county Awards were presented Alcona, Alvin An- Lansing) for managers and direc- union. drews, president; Alpena, Beverly Veliquette; Arenac, Tom tors. This years' meeting carries the theme "Cooperative Extension The contest began on June 1 Kopaczekski, Baraga; Ronald Moilanen; Barry, Robert Bender; Service Appreciation Day." L A and ended July 31, 1970. County Bay, Herbert Schmidt; Berrien, Dave Timmerick; Branch, Re- Cheney, Exec. Sec. MAFC, re- Farm Bureaus Freedom-ta-Mar- mus Riggs; Calhoun, Hugh White; Cass, Levi Van Tuyle; Charle- quests that invitations be extend- voix, Wayne Saunders; Clare, Charles Magnus; and Clinton, ket Committees, Women's Com- ed to County Extension Directors Lee Onnston. and/or agents. mittees and many others pro- Other Two Star winners included Delta, Kenneth Sahn; moted the contest and encouraged The meeting will start at 9:00 Eaton, James Clark; Genesee, Donald Hill; Gladwin, Alvin MRS. MEYERS - AL ALMY members to participate. A sig- a.m. with registration. The An- Shearer; Gratiot, Norman Gulick; Hillsdale, Alvin Wells; nual Meeting is slated to begin at nificant number of members sub- Houghton, Leonard Ollila; Huron, Keith Sturm; Ingham, Junior 10 with Dr. William E. Cooper, mitted entries for the "GRAPE- BrownEield; Ionia, John Westbrook; losco, Lyle Robinson; Iron, Winners of the "GRAPE- Michigan State University Assoc. STAKES" contest. Most of the STAKES" contest prizes were Frank Tuchowski; Isabella, Roger Himebaugh; Jackson, Dale Prof. of Zoology speaking on entries were accompanied by sales drawn during the Michigan Farm Crouch; Kalamazoo, Arthur Bailey; and Kalkaska, Robert Hall. "Environmental Issues and its Im- Bureau Annual Meeting Banquet, receipts indic ating the purchase Kent, James Robinette; Lapeer, Herbert Opperman; Lenawee, pact on Agriculture". held in the Grand Rapids Civic of table grapes. Lowell Eisenman; Mac-Luce, Archie Pentland; Macomb, Robert Dr. Clinton Meadows, MSU, Auditorium, November 9. Verellen; Manistee, Charles Agles; Mecosta, Joel Chapin; Mid- Professor, Dairy Dept. and Jack All Michigan Farm Bureau land, Jerry Wirbel; Missaukee, Don Vanderpol; Monroe, Elmer The newly-crowned Michigan Dendel, president of Michigan -Farm Bureau Queen, Judy Beh- members who entered the Anderson; Muskegon, Donald Stevens; Newaygo, David Zerrip; Animal Breeders Cooperative, wiII renwald, drew the names of the "GRAPESTAKES" contest have N. W. Michigan, Floyd Hant; Oakland, Adolph Engler; Oceana, share the noon luncheon speaking winning entrants. honors. "How Can Cooperatives been automatically entered in the Francis Hawley; Ogemaw, Gerald Green. and Extension Programs Work All prizes were provided by national drawing, to be held at Other Two Star winners were Otsego, Eugene Fleming; Ot- tawa, Arthur Lucas; Saginaw, Harvey Gosen; St. Clair, Fred Together to Improve Agriculture" the California Table Grape Com- the AFBF convention in Decem- will be their discussion topic. mission. ber. First prize in the national Schultz; St. Joseph, James Roberts; Sanilac, Kenneth Fiecke; Shiawassee, Earl Reed; Tuscola, Gerald Hicks; Wayne, George Dr. Eric Thor, Administrator, The winner of the first prize, drawing will be a 1971 Ford Pick- Carpenter and Wexford, Leon Cooper. Farmer Cooperative Service, US- a three-piece set of Samsonite up Truck. You can cut down your own Christmas tree and haul it home to your fireside, providing you follow certain legal requirements. So says B: Dale Ball, director of the Michigan Department .of Agriculture. Ordinarily, transportation of Christmas trees and evergreen boughs is illegal in Michigan without a bill of sale or proof of property ownership. The law is administered by the Depart- ment of Agriculture's Plant Industry division. But during December, an exception to the law permits trans- portation of not more than two trees without a bill of sale, if they were legally obtained. Many Michigan residents traveling to the north country before the holidays, such as deer hunters, enjoy taking advantage of this special permit. Necessary legal forms for persons transporting more than two trees are availnble from the Lansing and regional offices of the Department. Forms can also be obtained from county exteMion offices, county sheriffs and state police posts. all you need Michigan Farm Bureau President Elton R. Smith was the to get out of town speaker at one of Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation's nual Convention general sessions November 24. Pres. Smith chose as his topic ',Vorking Together." 36th An- The Convention was in a hurry held in Hot Springs. U. S. Senator John L. McClellan was the Dial your long distance calls main speaker at the general session. direct and get somewhere the easy way. Just dial 1, the area code President Richard Nixon proclaimed November 20 through (if different from your own) , the 26th, National Farm-City Week. President Nixon requested then the phone number "that leaders of agricultural organizations, business groups, labor unions, youth and women's clubs, civic and fraternal associa- and you'll go a long way. F~st. tions, schools .and others join in noting not only the interdepend- Dial your long distance calls direct. ent roles of producers and consumers of America's agricultural abundance but also their opportunities for cooperation in build- And get out of town, on time. ing for the future." .The Proclamation continued: "I urge the Department of Agri- culture, land-grant educational organzations mark the new significance institutions, and all appropriate and government officials to carry out programs to of National Farm-City cluding public meetings and exhibits and presentations Week, in- in the @ MiChigan Bell 1"'ress and on radio and television." MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 1971 POLICIES REFLECT "THE NEW AGED Adopted by the Voting Delegates at 1970 Annual Meeting of Michigan Farm Bureau, Grand Rapids, November 9-11, 1970 PREFACE Our Farm Bureau is a farm organization. It must be an aggressive organization geared to serving commercial farmers with bold and imaginative programs. The build- ing and maintaining of this bold and aggressive farm organization depends heavily on attracting the best in farmer leadership. This leadership must be active at all levels of the organization, from Community Groups MEMBERS OF THE 1970 . Michigan Farm Bureau Policy Development Committee are, left to through state officers. The organization must maintain right: Wayne Musbach, Clarksville, District 4; Bruce leipprandt, Pigeon, District 6; Robert Eg- the best type of employees to carry out the wishes of the members. gle, Tustin, District 7; Carl Quackenbush, Burt, District 8; Bernell Hershberger, Mio, Distr:ict 10; While programs should be geared to serving com- Otto Flatt, Engadine, District 11; Mrs. Raymond Postma, Rudyard, Mrs. Ray Anderson, Chief, mercial agriculture, membership opportunity should be and Mrs. Marvin lott, Mason, representing Farm Bureau Women; John laurie, Cass City, provided for all people interested in agriculture. Ap- Member at large; Dean Pridgeon, Chairman, Montgomery, Member at large; leslie Dowd, propriate safeguards must be maintained to limit the voting rights to committed farmers. The distinction be- lawrence, District 1; Karl Howard, Marlette, Farm Bureau Young Farmers; William Middleton, tween regular and associate members must be made Ortonville, Farm Bureau Young Farmers; Eugene Roberts, lake City, Member at large; Henry clear and concise. County Boards must observe the Jennings, Swartz Creek, District 5; David Diehl, Dansville, Farm Bureau Young Farmers; Don- spirit of such a definition which should be carried in ald Nugent, Vice Chairman, Frankfort, District 9; Glenn Hanson, Howell, District 3; Alvin Wells, their bylaws. North Adams, District 2. -... RECOMMENDATIONS ON NATIONAL AND - New sources of revenue for local units of govern- INTERNATIONAL AFFAmS 1. Further tax measures, including the requirement that "zoning and existing use ... " be considered ment in order to relieve property taxes. The recommendations on National and International in determining property valuations, and improve- - Improved assessment and equalization procedures. Mfairs adopted by the voting delegates have been for- ments in the Commercial Forest Reserves Act - Permit assessment and taxation of new property for warded to the American Farm Bureau Federation for (Pearson Act) including increased payments to school purposes the first year it is built. use by the National Resolutions Committee, which is the county. made up of representatives of every State Farm Bureau. - New methods of financing schools, \vith strict limi- Michigan's recommendations will also serve as a guide 2. Legislation providing matching funds for up- tations on property taxes for school purposes. for our voting delegates to the forthcoming Annual Con- grading housing for seasonal workers. - Vse of the income tax as the major source of funds vention 0,£ the American Farm Bureau Federation. 3. Amendments to various dairy and livestock laws, to finance schools. The National and International Policies adopted at including increased indemnity payments for tu- - Assessment of agricultural land as farmland as long our National Convention will serve as the policy for all berculosis and brucellosis, calfhood vaccination, as it is so used instead of on its possible potential State Farm Bureaus. This is essential in order that there and improvements to the butter, cheese and ice value. may be effective harmony and unanimity among Farm cream laws. - Prevention of inequities arising from special assess- Bureau organizations throughout the Nation. 4. Updating of the "Horton Trespass Law" to extend ments on property that receives no benefit from Michigan's recommendations on National and Inter- its provisions to fishing, snowmobiling and to the project. national Mfairs are available to County Farm Bureaus privately-owned, fenced wildlands. The balancing of Michigan"s tax structure should re- and others upon request. 5. Reflectorization of license plates and other traffic sult in every citizen paying his fair share toward the safety legislation. Also, legislation permitting re- support of his schools and other local and state govern- FOREWORD location payments under the Federal Aid High- ment services. We, the members of Farm Bureau, are the strength way Act. AGRICULTURAL LAND ASSESSMENT of our organization. We belong because we are con- 6. Improvement in the state school aid formula, in- Confiscatory taxation and assessment of agricultural cerned about problems in agriculture and of our society. cluding for the first time aid for vocational edu- land has reached critical proportions. Latest published We believe there is strength and accomplishment through cation. V.S.D.A. data show that farm property taxes as a per- working together. centage of net income are now over 20 percent! Four We live in a complex society with a variety of prob- 7. Appr~val of two new research programs - cash to five times higher than taxes paid by other segments lems. Farm people are a part of society and, as such, crops (dry beans, sugar beets, etc.) and integrated of the economy. Open land, while being taxed to support have the same concerns as any other people. One con- control of pests - and appropriations to continue services, creates no cost. It requires no services such as cern to both urban and farm people is pollution of our research on fruits and vegetables, pesticides, mas- sewage, water or schools and actually helps moderate a environment. We welcome the concerns of others titis, beef cattle - forage, white wheat, sod pro- service load to the community. Agriculture - the basic in this area. We point to our efforts in improving our duction, mechanical harvesting, peach tree life, industry - is easily forgotten in land use planning, as surroundings by soil conservation practices, and work to cattle and swine infertility, fruit and vegetable it cannot be nucleated into great plants like steel and stop littering of our countryside. weather adaptability. autos. It creates no commuting traffic jams and no park- We believe society's concern with pollution should 8. Creation of new Potato Commission. ing problems. Farmers are the victims of an insidious extend to the pollution of the mind. With increasing "real estate roulette:' Unable to pay the taxes forces crime, widespread use of dmgs, lack of respect for our 9. Amendments to hunting laws to help control wood- selling, often to a developer with large financial re- heritage of self-government with its protection of the chucks and raccoons and provide hunter safety sources who can afford to hold it for huge speculative individual, we call on all people to renew their faith in measures. profits. our historical institutions, such as church and home. We 10. Amendments to the State Meat Inspection Act, Such tax confiscation of the value of land is no more point out that people, with their attitudes, beliefs and thereby preventing federal control of this vital acceptable than would be the confiscation of the value skills, are America's most important resource. service. , of other types of investment. Because of these and other concerns, we put great A proper tax structure can be an effective method of effort into establishing policy for our organization. 'Ve ", e commend the Governor and the Legislature on the preserving the better farmland for future food needs. are convinced that policy only has meaning when it enactment of these and several other measures we have Such "green acres" and "open space" will also conserve truly reflects the attitudes and beliefs of our farmer mem- supported which are important to agriculture and to the economy of the State of Michigan. We also appreciate water, help purify polluted air and -provide for esthetic bers. For this reason, every member is given an opportu- and recreational values. nity to contribute to this policy development process. the fact that much proposed legislation not in the best Many progressive states have recognized this problem; This process involves 1,100 community groups, county interest of agriculture ,was not adopted. 20 or more have taken action to allow assessment of commodity committees, 71 county annual meetings and farmland on the basis of its value for agriculture rather eight statewide advisory committees. The recommenda- TAX REFORM than potential nonfarm uses. For instance, the Maryland tions of all these sources come to the State Policy De- Farm Bureau policies have supported total tax reform law states that it is "in the general public interest ... to velopment Committee, who, to inform themselves, confer for several years. Much has been accomplished begin- maintain a readily available source of food and dairy with some 50 resource people. The committee after ning with the new Constitution and continuing with products close to the metropolitan areas of the state, to spending six long days in deliberation, present to the each session of the Legislature since that time. Mich- encourage the preservation of open spaces as an amenity dele~ate body, this, our annual report. igan's tax structure now contains the major elements of necessary to human welfare and happiness, and to prevent Mter consideration and adoption, this becomes the a "balanced tax structure." the forced conversion of such open space to more inten- policy of our organization for 1971. Through the strength However, tax reform is a complex and contining proc- sive uses as a result of economic pressures caused by the that comes from unity, we pledge to achieve our goals. ess. Further reforms are needed. Taxes on property assessment of land at a rate or level incompatible with continue to carry an unfair share of the total tax burden. the practical use of such land for farming." Dean Pridgeon, Chairman In other industrial states, urban interests have strongly MFB Policy Development Committee Property is no longer a good measure of wealth or the ability to pay. For example, a 1969 study revealed that supported such laws. in urban areas property taxes as a percentage of family Both houses of the Michigan Le~lature, during the PART I income ranged from 3.3% to 4%. In sharp contrast, 75th session, passed legislation (H.B. 2533) which was V.S.D.A. data shows that farm real estate taxes as a based on similar laws operating successfully in other RECOMMENDATION ON STATE AFFAIRS percentage of net farm income are four to five times states. It is regrettable that at the last moment H.B. 2533 higher! was bottled up in a CQmmittee. APPRECIATION We, therefore, continue to support further tax reform We shall continue to strongly support such legislation The 75th Michigan Legislature acted favorably on and believe that the follO\ving will lead to greater equity in the interest of tax equity and the present and future several Farm Bureau policies, including: of taxation: needs of our environment and an exploding population. PullOutSection:'71 STATE FARM BUREAU POLICY STATEMENTS December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS EIGHT Policies Reflect: THE VOICE OF THE MEMBERSHIP • • • assuring taxpayers and local governments efficient and We believe that parents and students have a responsi- DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDS impartial treatment. bility to provide textbooks and supplies except in cases of hardship. EDUCATIONAL FINANCE REFORM TEACHER TENURE We believe that school finance is undoubtedly a major key to total educational reform, as statewide equality of The inflexibility of the present Teacher Tenure Law educational opportunity cannot be achieved unless the makes it unreasonably difficult for school boards to dis- method of financing is first restructured to achieve equity. charge incompetent personnel. We believe the Tenure With the adoption of a state income tax, new methods Act should be amended to require that all tenure positions of financing our schools became available. It is generally be subject to a re-evaluation of performance after a agreed that property taxes for this purpose are obsolete reasonable period of time; however, not to exceed each and do not have the capacity to expand to meet the five years of service, with the opportunity to discharge increasing needs nor are they a good measure of ability undesirable or incompetent teachers. to pay. It is interesting to note that new studies show that VOCATIONAL EDUCATION during the seven years between 1961 and 1968 the aver- Educators in Michigan should have the responsibility age millage rates on property for schools increased 57 % of providing all citizens with an opportunity to become (17.89 to 28.05). However, during that same period of and remain occupationally competent. Occupational edu- time, if, beginning in 1961, an income tax for schools cation should be an integral part of the total education had been levied with $600 exemptions at 4.19% rate, the process. A recent statewide committee, called the State rate could have remained unchanged during the seven- Vocational-Technical Curriculum Committee, recom- year period and yielded $20 million more than the actual mended a vertically integrated occupational curriculum yield of the property tax despite the 57% increase that that extends through the elementary and through the occurred in the property tax rate. During that period of post-secondary levels. Such an integrated program could time, assessed valuations also increased at an alarming develop positive attitudes about work, create awareness rate, which multiplied the tax burden. This is ample LEE D. FERDEN •.. was of the vast occupational opportunities and provide knowl- JAMES G. HAYS ••• accepted proof that income taxes can keep pace with increasing awarded one of Michigan edge and skill to meet the demands of a constantly his Distinguished Service to needs and property taxes cannot. Agriculture Award from MFB Farm Bureau's Distinguished changing society. Continued voter rejection of millage proposals through- Vocational centers are also rapidly developing, many President Elton R. Smith. Mr. Service to Agriculture awards. out the state clearly indicates the need for new ap- Hays' plaque wos engraved The award, presented by MfB through existing local educational units, including com- proaches to school finance and for educational reforms. munity colleges, intermediate districts and high school to read: "In Recognition of his president Elton R. Smith, reads: Contributions to Agriculture "In Recognition of His Con- We recommend: districts. Through Education and Pub- tributions to Michigan Farm- - Property taxes for all K-12 school purposes be stric- We fully support these programs and believe that the lic Relations." Both men were ers Through the Improvement tly limited by law (should not exceed 12 mills). ultimate goal should be to develop and implement ef- nominated by their county of Field Crops and Coopera- fective occupational programs in all regions of the state. - The income tax be used as the major source of Such training opportunities should, wherever feasible, Farm Bureaus for the awards. tion with Michigan State Uni- funds for our schools. versity." include "on-the-job" training for school credit in cooper- - A reasonable state aid formula be developed to ation with local businesses. assist school districts in meeting the cost of building We urge the Legislature to adequately finance con- needed facilities. struction of vocational education centers wherever needed AGRICULTURAL LAND USE - Sufficient funds should be appropriated to pay in and operation of all such programs; also for the trans- The United States has 1.9 billion acres of land. Of full all state aid formulas. portation of students. Local property cannot be expected this amount, only 458 million acres are cropland, and of - Legislation to require each taxpayer to identify his to assume this additional tax burden. this amount only 72 million are in Class I land - and school district on his income tax form. over hall of this highly fertile Class I acreage is in urban AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION areas! It is in these areas that the population explosion The 1970-71 state aid act clearly indicates legislative is creating demands for all kinds of land for a variety intent to move in these directions. We continue to sup- The demand for more teachers of vocational and tech- of public and private uses. Prime land is becoming an port equitable educational finance reform. nical agriculture continues with the advent of specialized extremely limited resource. It is estimated that, in the programs on both secondary and post-secondary levels U. S., 1.5 million acres disappear each year - one-third EDUCATIONAL REFORMS in vocational centers and community colleges. We urge of which is good cropland. In Michigan, it is estimated capable students to consider this career opportunity. that, at the present rate, urban sprawl will eliminate 20 We believe the time has come for substantial reforms The Institute of Agricultural Technology, MSU, re- of the 22 best agricultural counties within 30 years. Such in our educational system. ports a constantly increasing demand in many occupa- changes in land use are permanent and irrevocable and '''e recommend that: tional fields for employees with agricultural background can be disastrous to the total environment. Pollution of - The present State Board of Education should be and training. The Federal Vocational Act of 1963, and water and air can be reversed - what is done to land replaced by a bipartisan, odd-numbered Education 1968 amendments, finally recognized the urgent need is often irreversible! Commission appointed by the Governor with the for technical training in agriculture. Nationally, the num- It should be obvious that all alternatives must be given advice and consent of the Senate. The Commission ber of students involved in technical training in agricul- every possible consideration before productive farmland should employ the Director of Education. ture has doubled in the past three years and is expected is . taken for such purposes as reservoirs, research, in- - The regional concept be followed if intermediate to double again in the next three years. The National dustrial and housing developments and roadways. We districts are reorganized. However, there should Academy of Science is presently conducting a survey of believe that township, county or state land use planning be a policy-making regional board, representing all the need for two-year programs in agriculture. and zoning, along with tax reform, can help in solving local boards of education. We strongly urge that teachers of vocational agricul- land use problems. \Ve need to contemplate the wisdom ture continue to be employed on a 12-month basis. Sum- of a Nigerian Chieftan when he said "I conceive that - Statewide testing and assessment of student progress mer months provide the opportunity for students to put land belongs to a vast family of which many are dead, and total evaluation of education should be con- into practice much of the vocational agricultural instruc- few are living, and countless numbers are unborn." tinued and expanded. tion provided during the school year. Providing this on- - Reorganization of K-12 districts should continue to the-farm instruction to students is an important part of be voluntary. Required reorganization should be the vocational agriculture teacher's responsibilities. Voca- PROPERTY TAX CREDITS delayed until such time as assessment and evalu- tional agriculture and FF A are unmatched in teaching The 1967 tax reform package gave some measure of ation tests provide factual information as to quality "individual enterprise" through practical application of property tax relief through the use of a sliding scale of education programs for students. classroom training. property tax credits on the state income tax. - State funding for public schools should be sufficient We continue to support these programs and urge that This y~ar, the Legislature repealed most of those to provide, as nearly as possible, sufficient class- greater emphasis be given to the increasing opportu- credits, which will prove to be particularly detrimental rooms and equal educational opportunities in the nities in technical agriculture and agri-business. to farmers. Fortunately, the repeal is limited to one year. local school concept for all students. 'Ve urge that the property tax credit be permitted to - Local school facilities be used to their fullest po- again become effective at the end of the one-year limit. STUDENT DISCIPLINE tential for educational purposes for both youth and adults. Year-round school would be feasible in We deplore the destruction of public property in our ASSESSORS TRAINING many areas. public schools. We believe that an important part of - Vocational-technical programs for both youth and education is learning to respect the rights and property Legislation requiring training programs for local as- of others. Therefore, we would encourage the adminis- sessors was passed in 1969 with a special board to imple- adults be made available to all areas of the state, fully financed by state funds. Existing educational tration and faculty in our local school systems to use dis- ment the law. We believe that such educational pro- cipline necessary to instill this respect in the students .. grams are desirable in order that local assessors can have facilities should be used wherever possible. The "World of Work" demands salable skills. Vocational We applaud those administrators who have good dis- a basic knowledge of assessment techniques. Some com- programs, whenever feasible, should include on-the- cipline and encourage others to follow their example. munity colleges are already offering good basic courses. Coordination of such programs is a reasonable and prac- job training with local business places for school tical approach. credit. SCHOOL BOARDS COOPERATION It should be pointed out that 1969 was the first year - Special education programs be available to all handi- that all counties were required to have equalization de- capped children. It has been proved beyond a We believe that it is imperative that school boards partments. Qualified, well-trained personnel are difficult doubt that these children can be educated to lead work together in areas in an effort to effectively deal to find. However, we believe that well-qualified County productive lives with dignity and contribute to the with the increasing problems of school districts, includ- Equalization Directors can assist local assessors when- economy. ing the rising cost of education, teacher and employee every specialized knowledge is required. This will main- - New and innovative instructional methods be re- contract negotiations, curriculum, etc. tain local control and help assure equitable procedures. searched and used wherever possible. We commend the Michigan Association of School We further believe that the Tax Commission should Boards in its efforts to correlate the attitudes and posi- do a more adequate job of providing local assessors with tion'i of all school boards. practical guidelines together with a constant updating OUR SCHOOL CURRICULUM of the Assessors Manual. However, it should be re- Many parents are concerned about the subjects being MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY membered that the final decision does and should con- taught (sex education, etc.), the material used in teaching tinue to remain with the local assessor. and some of the suggested reading lists in our schools. This pioneer land grant college has become a great The school curriculum is primarily the responsibility university and has not lost sight of the fact that agri- of the local school board. However, parents should be culture and agri-business is the foundation stone of TAXATION OF MOBILE HOMES interested in what is being taught and should work with nearly 30% of the economic base of our state and that Presently, mobile homes in trailer parks pay, in lieu local school board members in developing curriculum that the benefits of research of the College of Agriculture of property taxes, a fee of $3 per month. Two dollars upgrades moral training in our schools. This can be and the Agricultural Experiment Station, along with the of this amount goes to the school, 50 cents to the town- done by: Cooperative Extension Service, have reflected in better ship and 50 cents to the county. This fee system enacted - Reviewing present curriculum. Jiving for all our people, rural and urban. in 1959 is no longer realistic. The increased value of - Volunteering to serve on any review committees. We believe that Michigan State University must con- trailer homes is not reflected, nor do they contribute a tinue to give prime consideration to these disciplines proper share of the costs of schools and local govenunent. - Helping to elect the best qualified people to serve and recognize the great need for specialized training for We urge that legislative action be taken to increase the on local school boards. agriculturally-related occupations which mayor may not fee to a level in relation to the property taxes paid by We urge greater effort on the part of all institutions lead to a degree, but can be met through the course other homeowners. of public instruction to overtly teach and promote patri- work offered by the Institute of A~cultural Technology. otic Americanism. We believe that scholarships and loans should continue MICmGAN TAX COMMISSION to be available to qualified students needing assistance. FREE SCHOOL SUPPLIES It is obvious that there will be increasing further needs Presently, this agency of government has unique for emphasis in the areas covered by the College of Ag- powers. In effect, the Commission promulgates rules, The recent Supreme Court ruling requiring schools to riculture and Natural Resources, the School of Veterinary regulations and required practices and then sits as judge furnish books and supplies for students is an extra bur- Medicine, the Experiment Station, the Extension Service, on appeals which may result therefrom. den on already overloaded school district revenues. the Institute of Agricultural Technology, the world-re- We will support legislation that will resolve this ob- We feel this goes beyond the intent of our forefathers nowned Pesticide Research Center, as well as all other vious conflict of interest and create an appeals procedure when they established free education. areas of agricultural studies. r,- ' MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 NINE STRENGTH THROUGH GROUP ACTION • • • Through the years, we have supported the expansion INTOXICATED DRIVERS of many of the services of Michigan State University. No operator of a motor vehicle makes our highway We are now concerned with the critical shortage of more hazardous than the person who drives under the medically trained personnel and will continue to support influence of an intoxicant. Measures must be taken to the development of a complete School of Medicine. increase the effectiveness of our laws in preventing this We shall continue to support research and educational practice. programs in the College of Agriculture and Natural Re- \Ve urge our State Legislature to update our implied sources, recognizing that the benefits accrue to the en- consent law to meet the established federal standards. tire economy. If we do not conform with these standards, we could jeopardize Michigan"s share of federal highway funds. 4-H CLUB PROGRAM UNINSURED MOTORIST FUND Doring the past few years, the 4-H program has moved We feel that the $1 fee which is charged auto owners the emphasis away from competition in club work. We and which is put in the uninsured motorists fund should believe that competition is basic in every endeavor that be eliminated. If the fund needs money, charge the un- a person makes in his life. insured enough to cover the costs of the program. We recommend to the Extension Department that the emphasis on competition be retained in the 4-H Club SNOWMOBILES AND ATV'S program. Many property owners continue to report that the rapidly increasing number of snowmobiles is causing NEWS MEDIA SUPPORT damage to crops, young trees and fences on private We are grateful to those Michigan news media which property. We should be aware of the fact that the have given recognition and support of agriculture. We Horton Trespass Act was amended during the recent are most appreciative of those special services provided legislative session to include snowmobiles. fanners - such as market reports, weather forecasts and The all-terrain vehicle, trail bikes and similar machines honest news reporting. ~~- are also becoming very popular. We will support legis- Just as fanners bear an awesome burden and re- lation to include these vehicles under the Horton Tres- pass Act and other statutes presently applying to snow- sponsibility to produce the food and fiber needs for the ~;I k .....:u> .. ' ~.O.;3,:".F publk; ~ too, news media must bear a similar burden mobiles. md respomibility in providing accurate, timely and un- _ !:lr_ LAW AND ORDER biased reporting and programming to the public. It is obvious that there is a lack of respect for law We are aware of continued attempts to expand gov- MISS JUDY BEHRENWAlD ... 1971 Michigan enforcement agencies in our society. We recognize the ernment "guidance" within the news media industries rights of citizens to dissent, but condemn the acts of and compare these attempts with similar interference in Farm Bureau queen, is a senior at Michigan State . those who incite or participate in riots, bombings, vandal- the agricultural industry. University. Miss Behrenwald is the daughter of ism. defile the flag, or bum draft cards. We believe the news media must work to maintain Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Behrenwald, lakeview, We urge: accurate reporting and quality business standards, and Montcalm County. She was selected from 28 the acceptance of public interest responsibilities - both 1. The restoration of authority and respect for our for the sound growth of their own industry and the wel- candidates and will represent MFB at many func- law enforcement agencies in our society. fare of the public. tions in 1971. Mrs. Jane Ross Foss was the 1970 2. Courts to follow through in the convictions and MFB queen. Runner up was Miss Deborah Jane punishment of lawbreakers after apprehension and Elbring, Monroe County. due process of law. DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME 3. That our campuses remain in their traditional role We continue our support for Eastern Standard Time as centers of reason and intellectual pursuit. Col- for Michigan on a year-round basis. -There should be no further increases in weight, lege administrators must take strong disciplinary width and length limitations of trucks using any measures against student activists, nonstudent ex- road system. Most systems are inadequate to carry tremists, and facti1ty members who support campus TELEPHONES . even the existing loads. disorders or intertere with the rights of other stu- Electric power is sold at the same rates in urban and -Routes be chosen to avoid diagonal highways and dents and the orderly operation of educational in- rmal areas. Telephone companies are allowed to charge the use of productive agricultural lands where feas- stitutions. the rmal subscriber a higher rate to cover charges for ible. 4. Citizens to carry out their responsibilities in help- distance lived from the telephone centers. We urge that -Multiple use of highway rights-of-way for pipe- ing law enforcement officers by offering pertinent telephone companies of Michigan be required to charge lines and other utilities. information and assistance. equal rates for equal services in both rural and urban While we endorsed reclassification of the road system areas. FIREARMS CONTROL and the current Highway Needs Study, which are not completed, we emphasize that the special problems of We believe our laws should place more emphasis on IDGHWAYS the county and local road systems must be carefully the crime and the criminal rather than on the gun. MiChigan has a total of 114,544 miles of roads and considered. Good local roads are essential if rural areas 1. We oppose further expansion of registration of streets (45% inadequate). The State Highway Depart- are to be developed t~ their fullest potential. firearms. ment has the responsibility to develop and maintain 2. We would support mandatory imprisonment for 9,222 miles of this total. This includes the 1,175 mile any person convicted of a felony involving use of interstate highway system. Our excellent interstate sys- illGHWAY SAFETY . ~ as presently planned, is nearing completion. Ex- Accidents on highways take many lives each year; firearms. tensive Use of federal funds (90% federal-l0% state), many people are injured and much property damage 0c- LITTERING together with a bonding program, has made this possible; curs. To help reduce auto accidents, we recommend that: Littering is a costly nuisance and much of it is thrown however, interstate roads constitute only 1% of the 1. Motorcycles be required to have some type of uni- on Michigan's farm lands. Cleanup of highway litter is total mileage. form and distinctive marking clearly visible to on- costly to taxpayers. Over 18,000 truck-loads of bottles, Michigan's 83 County Road Commissions are re- coming vehicles. cans, paper and other filth will be picked up by hand sponsible for 17% (87,611 miles) of the total road sys- 2. Hard-top roads should be marked with center lines on State highways alone during the present year, the tem (44% inadequate). Of this total, 25,313 miles are and side lines as an aid to safer night-time driving. Michigan State Highway Department estimates. classified as Primary Roads (37% inadequate) and The recently-passed Anti-Litter Law can help in curb- 3. STOP AHEAD signs should be placed an appro- 62,298 miles are classified as Local Roads (47 % in- ing littering. The judge may levy a fine and costs and priate distance from every STOP sign, where a may require the offender to pick up litter along a speci- adequate). particular hazard exists. Of aD bridges on local roads, 62% are considered fied mileage of highway. 4. County Road Commissions clear roadsides and It is difficult to apprehend and identify litterers. Cit- inadequate. Most of these bridges were built in the intersections of anything within road rights-of-way !89O"s for boIse and buggy traffic and are unsafe for izens must be \villing to aid police officers in this difficult that obstructs the view of motorists. job. We must not permit local political influence to today's variety of traffic. Many are unsafe for school buses and other vehicles and have been so posted. In 5. Signs within the travelled lanes of any highway be hamper enforcement. many cases, the return of state highways to the counties the flexible or breakaway type. We urge the use of signs posted along State and creates an additional burden. In spite of increasing 6. School buses be equipped with distinctive mark- County highways and in parks, stating the maximum revenue, little progress has been made in eliminating ings on front and rear clearly visible during hours fine for littering. If "It Pays to Advertise", let's use this the deficiencies in most county road systems. Obsoles- of darkness. tool. oense and structural failures are occurring faster than We also support legislation to make the owners of a the facilities can be replaced. vehicle responsible for the litter thrown from his vehicle. DEDICATION OF illGHWAY FUNDS We commend television and radio stations and other As a result of the rapid growth of the interstate system, media for their efforts to help "Keep Michigan Beau- counties have the additional costly job of fitting county We re-emphasize our well-established postion that roads into that system and to accommodate the increased revenues derived from the taxation of motor vehicles and tiful:' traffic on our local roads caused by small industry, recre- motor fuels should be used exclusively for highway pur- poses. Michigan's Constitution contains an anti-diversion NONRETURNABLE BOTTLES ation users, etc., which create added stress on such roads The nonreturnable bottle is a nuisance and a hazard. and structures. The most desirable recreation areas are, provision. However, it does state that highway purposes shall be "as defined by law:" It is more than just "litter". in most cases, accessible only by county and local roads. Farm implement tires, auto and truck tires, livestodc Proper development of rural areas, including industrial The Legislature should not distort the intent of that provision by providing for the expenditure of highway and crops are being damaged or destroyed by broken expansion, is dependent on an adequate road system. revenues for aIiy purposes which are not dir~tly related glass, most of it in the form of throwaway bottles. For imtance. the Class A or frost-free highway system Time lost as a result of damage to a tire can mean pennits tmcb to carry the same weight the year around, to the construction, maintenance, or financing of modern and adequate highway facilities. many donars of crop loss.. but to service country areas they must often reload. The seriousness of the problem has been recognized Motor vehicle owners, in addition to specific highway We lec ........ ~: use taxes, contribute. millions of dollars annually to the throughout the state. -Any needed increase in revenues be met through State General Fund through sales and use taxes on the The nonreturnables are thrown away where emptied -user taxes- rather than a return to the old system purchase of vehicles, accessories, etc. These additional and are not picked up for salvage because they have of taDng property to build roads. funds should be adequate to finance highway-related no return value. Our county ano local roads and ad- -Present matching requirements for local roads should programs. joining fields and woodlots are favored spots for beer be decreased. (Most local units of government are We do not believe that further diversion of highway parties and rubbish dumps. financiaDy unable to increase their contributions.) funds for marine purposes should be permitted unless We have worked for severnl years to obtain establish- -Local roads serving recreational areas should be factual studies prove they are justified. ment of a mandatory return value on beverage throw- aways. Legislation has been introduced, but has not 1'II:Unhained without local matching funds. yet been adopted. -Local bridge replacement and reconstruction match- COUNTY ROAD COMMISSIONS ing should be eliminated or substantially reduced, We will continue to seek relief through: The Board of County Road Commissioners is a unit of 1. Use of plastic-type decomposable containers; or as they represent a specific problem and are ex- local government responsible for maintenance and con- tremely costly. struction of most roads within a county. The three- 2. A required return value on glass beverage contain- -Federal highway aid should be substantially in- member Board have six-year staggered terms and are, ers; or creased for county and local needs inasmuch as the in most cases, appointed by the County Board of Com- 3. A tax being placed on the manufacturers of these Michigan interstate system is near completion. missioners. bottles to help cover the cost of cleaning them up -State and Federal highway authorities should recog- We believe this system has insulated the jurisdiction from our roadsides. nize the spiraling costs of maintenance and equip- of our county road systems from direct politics and has ment and make proper provisions in maintenance resulted in efficient highway management throughout WELFARE cootracts with County Road Commissions. the ye'ars. We continue to support the Road Commission concept and oppose any effort to shift control of county The cost of weHare continues to increase each year. -Consideration, be given to counties with large areas In Michigan alone, durin~ 1969-1970, the estimated cost of public recreation lands, not only because of the roads to some other agency. However, liaison between Commissioners and citizens is sometimes poor and we will be approximately $290.464.000 to the State, $251,- heavy 6nancia1 burden placed on such counties, 631,000 Federal, and $40,905,000 to the Counties. We bot adequate roads can also be part of an effective believe that citizens should have a direct procedure for complaint and corrective action. believe that the present welfare program should include: safety program. TEN December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS POLICIES TO LEAD MEMBERS THROUGH THE NEW AGE • • • HEALTH SERVICES system of marketing service fee payment that will pro- vide adequate and sound financing of the association. We believe that Medicaid and Medicare programs should be under continuous scrutiny to eliminate exces- Although some processors have recognized the value sive use and abuse. of marketing services and information provided and have MAIN BANQUET SPEAKER ••• Rt. Rev. Msgr. Hugh M. Bea. We also believe that an investigation should be made cooperated with MACMA in the collection of members' han eXplained his address into the effects of the increasing number of malpractice marketing service fees upon the association's and mem- title, "The Cookie CuHer Com. suits against those trained in the health professions and bers' request, other processors have refused accommoda- plex" to the more than 1,300 health institutions. Unreasonable suits can discourage tion even though they purchase members' commodities. guests that aHended the an. young people from entering these occupations and can A uniform system of collecting marketing service fees nual meeting. "Father Mike" be an important factor in the rising cost.. of health care. at time of sale could provide a simple, efficient pro- kept his address typically cedure that would benefit the association, the members "light and lively" and em. and the processors. AGRICULTURAL BARGAINING AND We favor legislation requiring processors and other phasized the need of love for BARGAINING ACT buyers to deduct marketing service fees from cooperative everyone, not to be ashamed to show it and not to all be We shall develop and support an Agricultural Market- marketing association members' receipts upon official cut out by the same cookie ing and Bargaining Act to define and clarify the rights notification by the association verifying that such growers cutter mold. and limitations of bargaining associations. are members of the association and have voluntarily con- Provisions of this legislation should: sented to the deduction. These deductions need to be 1. Define an agricultural bargaining association. made promptly and then forwarded to the association within a reasonable length of time. The legislation should 2. Provide standards for recognition of -bargaining as- be similar in principle to the New York Agriculture and sociations by buyers of agricultural products. Markets Law in regard to deductions for payment to 1. Incentive to become financially productive. Wel- 3. Provide that failure of a buyer to negotiate in good cooperatives. fare benefits should not be reduced by 100% of faith with a recognized bargaining association shall earnings until earnings exceed the established min- constitute an unfair trade practice. imum. PRICE ANNOUNCEMENTS 4. Improve and strengthen marketing rights and the At times, fruit and vegetable growers have had to 2. Local administration. definition of agricultural fair practices. deliver produce to processors without the benefit of 3. Retention of County, State and Federal financial 5. Redefine and broaden the rights of bargaining as- knowing what price the processor is going to pay and relationships. sociations under antitrust law. later find that the prices paid by the processor are un- 4. Job training and placement programs should be re- realistic. We urge the Michigan Legislature to enact This approach would provide the necessary legal legislation that would require fruit and vegetable pro- lated to eligibility programs. framework on which farmers can build their own ef- cessors to post prices to be paid for fruit and vegetables 5. Food stamps to welfare recipients should be in- fective marketin~ and bargaining programs. a reasonable length of time prior to the beginning of cluded as a method of insuring a percent of the We will support and. work for legisla,tion that will the delivery date of the products for which the price welfare payments being spent on food. enable a producers' association supported by a referen- would apply. The posted prices should include the date dum vote of 51 % of the growers with two-thirds of the on which the prices are effective. If new prices are 6. Day care programs to enable welfare mothers to production of a commodity, or representing two-thirds work. subsequently posted which are lower than the previous of the growers with 51 % of the production of a com- prices, the new prices should not apply to any produce 7. Birth control information. modity, to bargain for and be supported by all pro- delivered or contracted before the posting of the new ducers of that commodity. This legislation should pro- prices. 8. Emphasis on maintaining the family unit. vide for a periodic rehearing or referendum to assure Welfare should not become a "way of life", but should that the association is adequately serving the industry. PAYMENT FOR PRODUCE be considered only as an emergency, or last resort, pro- We ,vi]) support legislation to provide that purchasers gram. of farm products, through negotiations, shall state their We deplore the practice by some independent fruit buying price, or a formula for determining this price, and vegetable processors of operating on ~rowers' money at or before the time of delivery. due to delayed payment for product delivered. Some- RURAL POVERTY times this period extends for as long as a year or more. Writers in the public press tend to dwell on the prob- Growers must pay farm workers immediately after work lem of poverty in the urban areas and fail to recognize MARKETING ORDERS is performed and are required to pay for their other the increasing problems of rural poverty .. Federal and state marketing orders are acceptable costs of production within a set period of time along The report of the President's National Advisory Com- marketing tools through which groups of producers of the standards of normal business practices. mission on Rural Poverty, published in 1967, pointed out perishable and specialty agricultural commodities can We urge the Michigan Legislature to enact legislation that there are more than "14 million rural poor". This work to improve fann income through industry-operated, that would require processors who purchase fruits and figure would be much larger had there not been a steady market-oriented programs. Marketing orders have spe- vegetables from growers to make full payment within migration to urban areas. Unemployment and under- cific and limited application. They are not a substitute ten days of the date of purchase unless other provisions employment are major problems in rural America. for effective producer marketing associations. are made by written contract. Poverty in rural areas is often more serious than in Marketin~ orders should be designed to provide for urban areas. Many of the costs of living may be higher; orderly marketing, establish quality standards, generate educational, cultural and many recreational facilities are market information and dispose of unanticipated surplus FEDERAL MARKET ORDER FOR not readily available; many public and private assistance commodities. Orders should not be used to establish RED TART CHERRIES programs are not available; distances and transportation closed markets or maintain artificially high prices. Money collected under marketing orders should be used only We endorse the proposed Federal Market Order pro- are added problems. gram for red tart cherries. We believe the order, if for administrative cost .., marketing research, market de- It is estimated that some three-quarters of a million velopment, or for advertiSIng and promotion if it is enacted, will aid in the expansion of marketing and util- people in rural Michigan live under poverty conditions. ization of red tart cherries and improve the profitability clearly evident that advertising and promotion expendi- Unfortunately, most of the poverty resources have been of the cherry industry for producers and processors. tures will increase producers' net incomes. siphoned off into urban areas. Society's responsibility 'Ve encourage cherry producers to favor the Cherry Mar- We believe that any marketing order should meet the is just as important in rural areas as in urban areas. following criteria: ket Order when it comes to a vote. We believe that there are presently sufficient agencies, public and private, to deal effectively in a coordinated 1. Be market-oriented; used to maintain and expand manner with these problems. One of the most effec- markets. VOLUME MEASUREMENT OF CHERRIES tive agencies with long-time experience in helping people 2. Provide opportunity for new producers to enter We believe that the measurement and sale of cherries to help themselves is the Cooperative Extension Service. production. by volume creates certain marketing efficiencies and We believe that programs similar to those used by the 3. Contain provision for periodic review at not greater quality inducements. On the other hands, the costs of Cooperative Extension Service can provide valuable than five-year intervals. this practice have been substantial to cherry producers. services in helping to solve this problem. Expansion of 4. Allow for a petition for rehearings or a new refer- There are also indications of violations of the Michigan these programs should be separately funded, and not in- endum. Department of Agriculture Regu~ation No. 548, prohibiting cluded as an Agricultural Assistance Program, or result 5. Include products produced for the same general the conver~ion of volume measurements to a weight basis in diminution of present services. market irrespective of production area. for pricing purposes. Growers do not have sufficient evidence as to the suitability of continuing the practice 6. Be administered by an advisory committee with on a permanent basis. We urge continuation of Regula- FOOD STAMP PROGRAM the Secretary or Director of Agriculture having tion No. 548 (Sale of Red Tart Cherries Suspended in authority only to make sure the law is properly Water) on a trial basis through 1971. We support en- We support the food stamp program as a means of carried out. forcement of the regulation pertaining to pricing. helping those persons who are really in need of assist- 7. Approval of a marketing order should require a ance. However, we believe there should be a complete referendum vote of 51 % of the growers, with two- investigation of the present procedures for distributing thirds of the production of the commodity, or two- SWEET CHERRY MECHANICAL HARVESTING food stamps, and that the procedures be revised so that thirds of the growers repreSenting 51 % of the eligibility rules can be enforced. Research by Michigan State University has revealed production. that an abscission agent can be employed to dramatically We further believe that any person who refuses to work when offered employment or is on strike should Orders for commodities produced for processing should improve the harvestability of sweet cherries by mechan- not be eligible for food stamps or surplus food com- not require processor approval when confined to raw ical means. Use of this agent, ethreJ, improves the quality modities. agricultural products. of machine-harvested sweet cherries and also results in We support amendments to the Act to authorize orders less damage to the cherry trees. for additional agricultural commodities whenever pro- We believe that ethrel should be given a research label NARCOTICS AND HARMFUL DRUGS ducers demonstrate a need for such programs. for use in 1971. Farm Bureau should be keenly aware of producers' The rapidly growing use of narcotics and harmful marketing needs and take leadership in meeting these drugs must be stopped. We encourage massive, direct needs. CHERRY RAW FRUIT INSPECTION and realistic educational efforts to inform youth, parents We believe that using third party inspections to de- and others concerning the harmful effects of drug abuse. We oppose legalization of marijuana. FILING PRODUCTION CONTRACTS termine the grade and quality of agricultural products We support more realistic penalties for first offense is a sound business practice' - for example, many grow- Michigan ranks high as a producer of processing veg- prs, shippers and buyers have used the Federal-State users. The courts should make sure stronger penalties etables. This important segment of Michigan agriculture are imposed a~ainst drug pushers. Inspection Service to mutual benefit. In some instances, should be expanded. Two of our major competitors, Wis- More rehabilitation centers and programs should be however, particularly in the case of red tart cherries, consin and North Carolina, have legislation which re- made available to drug users. Drug users under 21 years quires processors to file proof of financial responsibility compulsory use of Federal-State Inspection Service has of age should be permitted and encouraged to seek provided an unsatisfactory experience. Cherry growers and contract terms with the Department of Agriculture. treatment on their own initiative. In both states, farmers, processors and the industry have have discovered that raw product ~rades on cherries are We support effective enforcement of the Federal Drug benefitted from this requirement and the industry has inconsistent from one inspection station to another. Abuse Control Act of 1970 to tighten the importation. grown . Some buyers have taken advantage of these inconsist- manufacture and distribution of narcotics and harmful We recommend that all processors and handlers of- . ('nt inspection practices to force lower prices through drugs. fering contracts to producers for the production of vege- s.trict grades while concealing price increases through tables be required to file a copy of the contract offered, liberal inspections. These practices lessen competition including contract terms and financial rating of con- between buyers by keeping price schedules on a sub- HEALTH PLANNING COUNCIL jective rather than objective basis. tractor with Michigan Department of Agriculture before We wish to commend the Health Planning Council of offering contracts to producers. The third party inspection requirement for cherries Michigan for the excellent work it is doing in helping has forced growers who pack their own to pay a Federal- to plan and coordinate health services throughout the State inspector to inspect cherries as they come into state. This voluntary, nonprofit organization is assistin~ MARKETING ASSOCIATION FEE COLLECTION their own plant where a grade determination is un- the people of Michigan in many communities in their An increasing number of farmers are joining cooper- necessary. effort .. to provide optimum health care at the least pos- ative marketing associations to improve their income and sible cost through wise planning based on exhaustive and We urge that raw fruit inspection of red tart cherries become better informed about marketing. With the by the Federal-State Inspection Service be changed from factual studies. It is also a strong voice in support of expansions of marketin~ activities into previoll...ly un- voluntarism in health planning. a mandatory to a voluntary or negotiable practice be- organized commodities by MAGMA, there is need for a tween buyers and sellers. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 ELEVEN WHERE TH.E MEMBERS VOICE IS HEARD • • • POULTRY BUYER BONDING • The agricultural research facilities of our land grant POLLUTION ABATEMENT PROGRAMS Marketing alternatives for producers of live poultry institution have done much for farmers as well as con- The Agricultural Conservation Program pollution include both state and out-of-state buyers. Modem roads sumers. abatement practices contribute toward the improvement and vehicles enable buyers to travel long distances from The following. are among the research projects in of man's environment. Pollution abatement practices are processing plants to obtain poultry from producers. 'Some- which we have concern: approved for every county in Michigan and monies are times buyers arrive at the farm with unsanitary equip- -Various projects in advancing food science. available to provide farmers with financial assistance ment, which can cause disease problems. A large per- -Dry edible bean and sugar beet research. when installing approved practices. We believe the ACP centage of Michigan-produced poultry is handled by -Infertility in livestock. program should place added emphasis on pollution abate- out-of-state processors. Dealing with unknown poultry ment practices to control runoff from farm barnyards and buyers increases the potential for serious financial loss -AlfaUa weevil, potatoes and sweet com. feedlots, prevent sediment from reaching our streams, to producers. -Beef cattle and forage. and encourage proper handling and disposal of animal We strongly urge legislation to require buyers of -Mastitis prevention and control. wastes. Michigan-produced poultry to post adequate bond for -Improvement of Michigan soft wheat varieties. the financial protection of poultry producers in their -Disease control in tude NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION marketing operations. Regulations should also provide for buyer equipment sanitation standards. -Research to aid our cherry and peach industry. Many actions of the Department of Natural Resources -Continued pesticide and integrated pest control re- have tremendous effects on Michigan agriculture. We POULTRY MEAT IN SAUSAGE search. urge that agriculture have representation on the Natural -Agricultural wastes and recycling systems. Resources Commission. Recent amendments to Federal meat and poultry in- spection regulations provide for the inclusion of poultry -Southern com leaf blight. in cooked sausage products. Present Michigan law does -Fruit and weather adaptability. SOIL CONSERVATION AND not permit the addition of poultry meat in sausage prod- SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRICfS We also support continued intensive research to de- ucts. We urge Michigan Farm Bureau to seek legis- velop varieties of fruits and vegetables and crop cultural Responsibility for the use and improvement of land lative changes to our comminuted meat law to permit practices to accommodate mechanical harvesting. and water resources rests on all citizens, urban as well the addition of poultry meat in accordance with USDA We commend the work of the MSU Agricultural Ex- as rural. Cities are dependent on rural lands not only standards. periment Station and ask the Legislature to appropriate for food, but for most of their water supplies. adequate funds for the continued research efforts by The annual increase in our population places a def- MIDWEST EGG PRODPCERS COOPERATIVE the Experiment Station. inite responsibility on agriculture and the nation to safe- Commercial egg producers have experienced severe price fluctuations in recent years. The lack of a re- sponsible voice for all egg producers has contributed to this problem. Egg producers now have the opportunity to benefit from a united voice. We commend the activ- ities of Midwest Egg Producers Cooperative Association and the United Egg Producers in promoting the orderly marketing of eggs. We urge poultry producers to con- sider joining the Midwest Egg Producers Cooperative Association. EXPANDING MARKETS FOR DAIRY PRODUCTS The production and marketing of high quality dairy products represents a dynamic segment of Michigan ag- riculture. Dairy substitutes continue to challenge and compete with dairy products in the marketplace. We commend the dairy industry for developing and financ- ing strong promotion programs to expand the market for dairy products. The removal of some of the legislative barriers restricting markets for dairy products will also benefit the Michigan dairy industry. We will continue to work with dairy organizations to determine and seek solutions to the competitive problems facing dairymen. MICHIGAN POTATO GRADES AND STANDARDS TWO YOUNG FARMERS ... accepted certificates of commendation from 1970 Y. F. Chairman Michigan potato grade standards permit the sale of Karl Howard at the MFB Young Farmer Banquet. Dale Weidmayer, second from left, Washte- potatoes under the "Unclassified" designation. This no- now county, accepted the award for Washtenaw county. (Mrs. Howard, lower center, looks on.) grade description has permitted the marketing of po- Daniel Robotham (second from right) accepted on behalf of Benzie county Young Farmers. The tatoes that have food value but cannot meet grade standards due to quality conditions resulting from un- certificates were given in recognition of outstanding Young Farmer programs in the respective controllable factors, such as weather and disease. counties. We are alarmed that at times consumers have pur- chased poor quality Michigan Unclassified potatoes and guard our needed future food production facilities. ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS did not understand that the potatoes did not meet qual- Farm owners and farm renters, as well as our urban ity standards. Unfortunately, some of these consumers The current drive for a better environment shows population, must be aware of the need for intelligent use chose not to buy Michigan potatoes again. every sign of becoming a powedul and permanent force. and conservation of our lands. (Soil erosion in new de- We ask that the Michigan Potato Grade Standards be Farmers have long recognized the importance of caring velopments is a growing problem.) amended to require that all potatoes graded and packed for the land so necessary for their living. Good soil con- in consumer-size packages (quantities less than 100 servation practices, minimizing erosion, can be one of The Soil Conservation Districts now organized in pounds (meet the grade standards. We urge that the agriculture's most important contributions to a clean ~ichigan are efficiently operated by elected farmers potato industry develop outlets. such as pro.cessing, starch environment. We pledge our support to work with the serving without salary and are effective units of soil- and feed, that will utilize inferior quality potatoes. Soil Conservation Service to conserve our soil and water saving activity. through sound conservation practices. However. we POTATO INSPECTION should point out the serious soil erosion that results DRAINAGE LAW from construction of highways, pipelines, and residential We favor legislation to require federal-state inspection We urge that Michigan drainage laws continue to be and commercial developments. of all potatoes sold in interstate commerce bearing a updated. Future legislation should emphasize under- federal grade designation. While great strides have been made, continued re- standable provisions. The drainage law should require search is necessary to minimize leaching and runoff of all drainage projects to have a maintenance clause to agricultural fertilizers, chemicals, wastes, and to find require the drain commissioner to maintain and repair DRY EDmLE BEANS new uses for agricultural wastes through recycling sys- The production and sale of dry edible beans comprises drains and dikes after they have been renovated. The tems. cost of this maintenance should be borne by the entire an important part of Michigan agriculture. Rapid changes We urge all persons engaged in agriculture to become in fanning and the bean industry have resulted in fewer drainage district. informed of pollution sources and discipline themselves Lands owned by public agencies, such as school dis- and larger buyers and more specialization by growers. so as not to add to the problem. As the leading farm Producers have fewer market outlets and are forced tricts and the Department of Natural Resources, often organization, Farm Bureau will continue an informa- receive direct benefits from drainage projects which are to make marketing decisions without adequate informa- tional program to inform the public of agriculture's con- tion. Many' commercial growers recognize that there is financed and paid for by adjoining landowners. tribution to a clean environment. an urgent need for producers to have a greater voice We support legislation to provide for assessment and in price determination and other marketing conditions. collection of drainage -benefits to publicly-owned lands. As the largest farm organization in the state, we are PESTICIDES concerned about bean marketing problems faced by Agricultural chemicals have been one of the major FISH FARMING members. An extensive study of the need and feasibility of statewide organized marketing has been conducted • reasons for agriculture's phenomenal ability to produce Fish farming is developing as a food production in- by the Michigan Farm Bureau in conjunction with the abundant and high quality food. Farmers, in general, dustry in Michigan. Presently, fish farming is recognized County Farm Bureaus in bean-producing counties. have used them judiciously, and only in the quantity as a farming operation for tax purposes providing the We stand ready to assist bean producers with organ- necessary to assure control of disease and pests that harvest of fish occurs on a regular basis. If operated on izing and operating marketing programs when such ef- affect agricultural prpducts. a CCcatch-your-own" basis, fish farms are considered to forts will benefit Farm Bureau members to an extent Because of the controversy concerning use of insecti- be a recreational activity and are not taxed as farming !hat justifies the expenditure of Farm Bureau resources cides, fungicides, acaracides and herbicides, and the operations. m such activities. withdrawal of labels of some of these, we urge the State We believe that harvest of fish by the "catch-your- We urge: and Federal governments to fully fund programs for own" method is a management decision and fish farms intensified control research and further development of using this method of harvest should have a similar tax 1. All bean producers to participate in marketing ac- alternative chemicals. tivities that are based on realistic economic ap- status. proaches to solving marketing problems and im- proving producer income. CHEMICAL CONT AMINATOIN WEATHER REPORTING AND FORECASTING 2. County Farm Bureaus in the bean-producing area Chemical residue (mercury, etc.) in animals can be Agri-business contributes much to the economy of to evaluate and assist members with the develop- a dangerous health hazard. We favor legislation per- the state and much investment has been made by pro- ment of effective bean marketing programs. mitting the Department of Agriculture to quarantine ducers and processors of farm crops; many people de- 3. Greater unity of effort among cooperatives in- suspected animals and condemn such animals proved pend on the harvesting, processing and handling of these volved in bean handling and marketing. to be contaminated with poisonous chemicals. crops for their livelihood. 4. The Michigan bean industry study the feasibility It is a well-established fact that weather conditions of establishing a marketing system utilizing pro- play an important part in the growing and management duction contracts and advance pricing concepts. ANTmIOTICS AND FEED ADDITIVES of crops and, in some cases, knowledge of possible tem- The use of antibiotics is essential to efficient modern- perature changes of even a few degrees can be the dif- AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH ference in saving or losing an entire crop. day animal husbarrdry and assists in the production of Agricultural research is essential to maintain the ef- high quality animal products. Traces of antibiotics in Unfortunately, aWicultural weather information has ~ciency of agricultural production. New pr<;>blemsco~- farm products are usually the result of misuse. In case been nearly phased out by the Weather Bureau, and tinually arise in the production and marketing of agrI- of injectable antibiotics, government authorities have most agricultural meteorologists have been reassigned cultural crops (an example is the southern com leaf threatened to deny their use to farmers if residues show to other duties. It is apparent that forecasts necessarily blight) and in the field of farm management. Solution up in meat products. cover large areas and are of a general nature and of of these problems must be supplied through basic and little value to modem specialized farming. applied research. This research can best be done by We urge all farmers who use antibiotics and feed educational institutions such as Michigan State Um- additives to foIIow directions carefully and be judicious We request the Weather Bureau to cooperate with versity. in their use. those needing special reports during critical times. TWELVE December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS MANY ISSUES WERE CONSIDERED • • • RODENTS, BLACKBIRDS AND STARLINGS Rodents, blackbirds and starlings are causing serious damage to crops and property in many areas. They are also a potential carrier of diseases to humans and live- stock. This problem is increasing over a wide geographic area. We recommend continued intensive research efforts by state and federal agencies to find an effective method of control or eradication of these pests. DEER HERD We recommend that the Department of Natural Re- sources re-evaluate its antlerless deer policy and issue antlerless permits only in those areas sustaining damage from overbrowsing or other economic loss due to the over-population of deer. WILDLIFE PRESERVATION AND AGRICULTURE Wildlife is important to the economy of Michigan and its public recreational opportunities. Federal and State game refuge areas contribute much to the preserva- tion of wildlife and migratory waterfowl. Establishing new and expanding existing game refuge areas often creates serious local problems. These include ROBERT HARMS, VERMONTVILLE (CENTER) ... is the 1971 M~chigan Farm Bureau Young Farmer acquisition of good farmland at below-market values, Discussion Meet winner. He accepted an engraved plaque from Young Farmer chairman Karl increased crop damage to surrounding farmlands and loss of local tax base. An example is the Hayward Lake Howard (left). Looking on is the 1970 Discussion Meet winner David Farley. Goose Refuge in the Upper Peninsula. We urge that practical safeguards be established to Where necessary, we recommend that state laws be re- for workers who have handicaps which may prevent them provide equitable protection to farmers against un- vised to provide that no benefits be paid to workers from other employment and at the same time provide reasonable land acquisition for Federal-State game refuge who are on strike. proficient workers much higher earning opportunities areas and from damage caused by wildlife using these Pressures are increasing at both the state and na- than do hourly rates. areas. Alternate site locations, compensation for crop tional levels to bring agriculture under unemployment Farm commodities produced in Michigan must c0m- damage and payment for land at full market value should compensation laws. Such efforts often ignore the dif- pete with commodities produced in other areas of the be considered when establishing new or expanding pres- ferences between agriculture and industry. U. S. and the world. Michigan minimum wage rates ent refuge areas. We therefore recommend a study be made to deter- should not exceed the federal minimum wage for agri- mine the feasibility of some type of unemployment cultural workers, as many states do not have state mini- compensation for farm workers. mum wage laws applicable to agriculture. UPPER PENINSULA EXPERIMENT STATION Farmers themselves are at a serious disadvantage ~ Agricultural and timberland enterprises in the U. P. WORKMEN'S COMPENSATION ing the victims of ever-increasing costs and low prices. have progressively changed since the establishment of Unlike other segments of the economy, farmers are not the Experiment Station at Chatham. The Experiment Employers of farm workers in Michigan are having in a position to readily pass increased costs on to the Station can continue to effectively serve the U. P. farm- difficulty in adjusting to the provisions of the Workmen's consumer. ers and timberland owners. Compensation Act as it applies to agricultural workers. We need the leadership that one experiment station It imposes a financial hardship upon farm employers who must meet competition from producers in other BOYCOTIS OF PERISHABLE FOOD PRODUCTS in the central part of the U. P. can furnish in the further development of agriculture and timber management. states where such coverage is not required. Unlike in- We are opposed to boycott techniques whiCh result Some of the research projects needed under U. P. con- dustry, farmers cannot pass on the cost. Any extension in the removal of products from the marketplace, such ditions include: of the act will compound these serious farm economic as in the case of California grapes. problems. We would emphasize that these methods of coercion 1. More test trials in small grains on disease re- and harassment were successfully employed on California sistance and production. produce and that the same tactic could be extended to SEASONAL LABOR HOUSING 2. AHalfa and trefoil variety development. any and every identifiable Michigan product. 3. Beef breeding and feeding. We recommend that all migrant labor camps be in- We urge that the proper authorities be apprised of spected by trained employees of the State Health De- this situation so that proper legislative and legal action 4. Field demonstrations in potato, rutabaga and other partment, so that all camps will be licensed according cash crops. may be taken to protect the rights of producers, £ann to the same interpretation of the rules and regulations workers and consumers. We urge that the Chatham Experiment Station be as provided by Public Act 289 .. maintained. We commend the Michigan Legislature and the Gov- ernor of the State of Michigan for recognizing that there FARM LABOR are special problems with respect to housing for seasonal PART II - OUR FARM BUREAU farm workers. The passage of Public Act 197, Public We are encouraged by the current arousing of social Acts of 1970, has provided much needed assistance to conScience and public awareness with regard to special farmers who provide housing for seasonal workers. FARM BUREAU MEMBERSHIP problems related to seasonal farm workers. In the past, We urge that the Legislature provide similar assistance these special problems have been recognized only by In 1970, the Michigan Farm Bureau had a member- in 1971 and continue such assistance each year until all ship of 57,940. This was an increase of 2,753 families their farmer-employers. Farmers have for years carried seasonal labor camps can be brought up to the stand- the burden for providing not only jobs for these people, over the preceding year. For the second consecutive ards of the State Health Department. year, all counties made a gain in membership. but even while their own families are forced to live on At the present time, Public Act 289 places the full 70% of parity, have tried to provide housing and im- During the past two years, 10,509 new members have responsibility of maintaining a migrant labor camp upon joined our organization. Of these new members, 6,~ proved living conditions during the work period. They the employer. We urge that Public Act 289 be amended have increased farm wages at a faster rate than most or 63%, were 45 years of age and under. This is sig- to require the occupants of a Farm Labor Camp to nificant as these members will assure vigor and strong other wage rates even as net farm incomes have de- assume responsibility for the deterioration of a housing creased. In addition to increased wages, many farmers leadership in the years to come. unit during their occupancy, except for normal wear Aggressive membership work remains an important pay transportation costs for workers from their horne and tear. states to the work state and provide loans and pay ad- iob in Farm Bureau. Without it, little else is possible. vances to support workers who reach the work area We approve a 1971 membership goal of a one-member EMPLOYMENT OF MINORS IN AGRICULTURE increase for each County Farm Bureau, as well as a during times of a work shortage. Even with the recent gains farm employers have pro- Youth should have the opportunity to obtain employ- one-member increase for the Michigan Farm Bmeau. vided for seasnnal employees, there are still problems ment in agriculture. inherent in migrating from state to state each year, par- In most instances, the employment of minors in agri- MEMBER RESPONSIBILITY ticularly for a group with a low general education level culture is socially and economically desirable. Work ex- and when a language barrier is sometimes present. perience is an essential part of the educational process We have in Farm Bureau a very democratic organiza- and develops self-reliance and self-respect. tion with the right to participate in malcing recom- In light of these facts: mendations and decisions. This opportunity to partici- The declaration of certain hazardous occupations by 1. We commend leaders in government and civic or- pate is available to us by attending Community Group ganizations for realizing the presence of these the Secretary of the U. S. Department of Labor are ac- ceptable, but should not be extended. Meetings, County Annual Meetings and the State An- special problems. The programs administered by the Agricultural Ex- nual Meeting. We are pleased that our members take 2. We encourage members of the Legislature and tension Service and vocational agricultural teachers for this responsibility seriously. leaders in agencies of government to be informed young workers have demonstrated that workers 14 and We would point out that this right to participate car- of the true agricultural labor situations so that 15 years of age can be trained successfully in the safe ries with it the responsibility to support the decisions understanding, reason and knowledge of the farm operation of tractors and farm machinery. We recom- of the majority. This requires a sense of organization dis- labor system and the agricultural situation will mend continuation of these training programs. cipline which can only be self-imposed by the member. guide the development of legislation and imple- mentation of programs dealing with farming and We encourage our members to discuss, disagree and RURAL MANPOWER CENTER recommend changes in the policy when these actions farm labor. are appropriate. WE ALSO REQUEST THAT MEM- 3. We caution these leaders against reactionary ap- We continue to support the operation of the Rural Manpower Center as a part of the College of Agricul- BERS GIVE ENTHUSIASTIC SUPPORT TO ALL proaches to emotion-packed allegations by certain MAlTERS OF FARM BUREAU POLICY AFfER pressure groups that would lead to the establish- ture and Natural Resources at Michigan State Univer- sity. We should continue to evaluate the program of THEY HAVE BEEN PROPERLY APPROVED. ment of costly and unwise programs that would be of little value to seasonal farm workers while the Center and suggest research and activities that will causing unnecessary hardships on farm families. be of value to Michigan agriculture. SERVICE TO MEMBER PROGRAMS 4. We encourage state and federal regulatory agen- The Michigan State University survey of farmer atti- cies to work toward simplified interstate recruit- MINIMUM WAGES tudes establishes that farmers are most strongly motivated ment procedures so that workers will be encour- Adjustments in the state minimum wage should take to join a farm organization through the provision of aged to have employment arranged before they into consideration many factors that are often unknown tangible economic benefits. Our Farm Bureau experience leave their home states. or are ignored. Most farm wage rates are well above the has been that strength of membership has benefitted 5. We urge the Michigan Farm Bureau to expand present minimum. It should be recognized, however, through the offering of some services of this kind in research into the possibility of establishing guide- that many employees have gravitated to farm work be- the past. lines, including legislation, to assure the uninter- cause they are denied job opportunities in other seg- We feel that it is important for the Michigan Farm rupted production, handling and sale of agricul- ments of the economy, either through a lack of skills or Bureau to promote and develop specific new programs tural products which is essential to the public because they cannot meet production norms, health, or which will provide services to Farm Bureau membeIs welfare. other standards set up as conditions of employment. only. We must preserve to the fullest de~ee possible Agricultural employment differs in many respects from those service-to-member programs which fulfill the pres- UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION industrial employment, such as occasional employment, ent and future needs of our members. family employment, substantial fringe benefits in addi- We favor retention of experience rating policies and tion to Social Security and Workmen's Compensation the preservation of state responsibility to determine eli- (e.g. housing, utilities, transportation costs, loans, etc.), FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS gibility and benefits. minimum supervision and payment of wages by piece The Farm Bureau Young Farmers Program is a part Administration of state unemployment insurance pro- rate. of, .not apart from, Farm Bureau. An increasing num- grams should be subject to continuous review and scru- Minimum wage provisions must be flexible to fit ber of Young Farmers between ] 7 and 30 years of age tiny to prevent abuses, particularly the payment of bene- these varying situations and differences. Piece rate pro- are availing themselves of training, leadership oppor- fits to those who can and should obtain employment. visions are essential to provide employment opportunities tunities, and responsibilities within the overall struc- MICHIGAN FARM NEWS' December 1, 1970 THIRTEEN MANY POLICI.ES WERE DECIDED • • • ture of Farm Bureau. This continues to be an effective HEALTH CARE COSTS AND CONTROLS ORIENTATION OF EMPLOYEES AND AGENTS program in the implementation of Farm Bureau pro- grams and the development of leadership. It is a proven We are alarmed by the continued increases in the The employed representatives of the Michigan Farm fact that no organization can survive when it fails to cost of health care and health insurance. We fear that Bureau and all of its affiliated companieS represent Farm bring in new leaders. the cost of these services will make it impossible for Bureau in general when contacting members around the many families to provide for their needs in these areas. state and the public-at-Iarge. We urge all County Farm Bureaus to make this pro- This could increase the demand for a Federal Govern- Uninformed or misinformed employees or agents may gram a part of their structure on a committee basis. ment Health Plan. We do not believe that this approach contribute to a poor or weak image of Farm Bureau, The program will only be successful if given strong em- would solve the problem. either in answers given to questions or statements made phasis at the county level. We recognize that there are many items causing the to other people when the information involves companies rapid rise in health care costs. These include general other than their own. A lack of information shows a inflation, increased wages of hospital employees, a short- weak interest on their part toward Farm Bureau gen- FARM BUREAU WOMEN erally when inquiries are made. age of doctors and other medically trained persons, dupli- The Farm Bureau Women's Committees have repre- cation of specialized facilities within hospitals and a sented a very active phase of our Farm Bureau program high cost of many new developments in medical tech- FARM LABOR MANAGEMENT INFORMATION and we commend them for this leadership. nology. We look forward to the results of the comprehensive Michigan farmers have long been concerned with the We urge County Farm Bureau Women's Committees problems of hiring and retaining capable employees. to provide for active participation of women of all mem- study initiated by the Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors to study alternative health insurance plans for Each year the competition for skilled workers from bus- ber families in activities, projects and programs of Farm iness, industry and agriculture has become more severe. Bureau. We also urge Farm Bureau Women to continue Farm Bureau members. The manager of today's farm business needs assistance to relate their efforts to the furthering of the total pro- in avoiding labor problems where possible and prepar- I gram of the Farm Bureau at local, county and state PORNOGRAPHY ing to meet and deal with problems when they arise. levels. We commend the work of M.A.S.A. for assisting farm- American youths and adults continue to be exposed We encourage action on the part of Farm Bureau to a beavy volume of pornographic publications and ers by recruiting labor when requested. In addition, Women which would strengthen, reinforce and vitalize programs from movie theatres, newsstands, bookstores M.A.S.A. has represented farmers' interest at legislative action programs on the part of County Farm Bureaus. and, to some degree, on television. We believe this labor hearings and in legislative actions. irresponsible exposure contribute to immorality and de- The labor management newsletter service has provided linquency. valuable labor information for M.A.S.A. members. COMMUNITY GROUPS We do not agree with the recent report of the Pres- Community Farm Bureaus are the cornerstones of idential Commission on Obscenity and Pornography that FARM BUREAU MARKETING PROGRAMS Farm Bureau and every effort should be made to obscene and pornographic publications and programs are Agricultural marketing is of great concern to farmers. strengthen this important part of our organization. The not detrimental to our society. We recognize the need to improve our present marketing starting of new and the maintaining of existing Commu- We urge Farm Bureau members and the general pub- methods if we are to receive a more equitable income. nity Groups should be a top priority project. In order lic to become active through personal contacts or letters Farm Bureau - county, state and national- must give to move forward in the Community Group program, we to theatre owners, movie production companies, pub- the development of more effective marketing programs recommend that: lishers, newsstand operators, television stations and net- high priority. We should continue to expand marketing 1. County Farm Bureau Boards give emphasis to the works and program sponsors to ask their support and activities in commodity areas when requested by mem- program by appointing Community Group Com- cooperation in controlling this menace to the moral fibre bers and where programs are economically feasible. of our nation. We are proud of our efforts in the area of marketing. mittees, establishing goals for the committee and reviewing the progress of the committee. Farm Bureau Services, Inc. continues to provide grain, ESTATE PLANNING dry edible bean and egg marketing services. A Cooper- 2. County Farm Bureaus conduct some form of trai- ative dry edible bean marketing program and a fowl ing school for group officers early in the year. The investment in the family farm is constantly in- marketing service have been initiated this past year. creasing in order to provide reasonable living for the The Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing As- 3. Counties participate in the "Regional Organizer" farm family. Unfortunately, farmers often have only a program to the fullest extent possible. sociation (MACMA) is now operating' nine commodity vague, verbal agreement between the parents and chil- marketing programs. Three new commodity divisions- dren of how the estate will be disposed of. They also Multi-Fruit, Feeder Cattle and Order Buyer - have LOCAL AFFAmS fail to recognize the extent to which Federal Estate beCome operational this past year. Taxes, Michigan Inheritance Taxes, Probate and other Members should become informed of the producer People support best those things which they help transfer expenses can cut into the total value. Farms build. County Farm Bureau officers and leaders are owned and operated marketing services being provided . sometimes must be sold or broken up in order to pay through our affiliate marketing organizations. 'Ve urge therefore urged to provide "building opportunities" for these costs. members by encouraging them to become involved in members producing commodities for which Farm Bureau Estate planning can assure that the family farm will has marketing programs to participate in the programs. the work of Farm Bureau. stay in the family. We urge members to consider such If Farm Bureau marketing programs are to become An opportunity to serve on an_ actio~ committee is planning. fully effective, support and participation is needed by welcome by many members. It allows them to build their organization. Care should be taken by County large numbers of producers. Successful marke.tin.g re- AGRICULTURAL ZONING quires the discipline of members. When a maJonty of Boards to see that many people are involved. New mem- bers should be given committee assignments in line With the rapip consumption of our agricultural land the producer members of a commodity decide on. a by industry, highways, and residential developments, we course of action, all producers must abide by the Wlll with their interests. must, as farmers, take the lead to save and protect our of the majority. Members must be willing to commit the Once established, a committee should be given strong cOmmodities they produce through contracts with their support and guidance from the County Farm Bureau prime land for future food production. It is essential that we become active locally in planning and zoning to marketing organization, and the organization, in turn, Board. It should be given important tasks to do and sell the products through full supply contracts. budget, if needed, to do them. There should be regular protect our property, ourselves, and the future of ag- reports and action deadlines. The committee should call riculture. We urge that exclusive agricultural zoning be stressed FARM BUREAU WHEAT MARKETING PROGRAM upon the County Information Committee to promote and publicize its work. for our prime agricultural land. We approve the idea of farmers being more involved Because the strength of Farm Bureau springs first in the marketing of their own products. The Farm Bu- from the strength of its local membership, much of the COUNTY COOPERATIVE COUNCILS reau Wheat Marketing program is a step in the right work should be done by these members, locally. It is direction. We commend the efforts of Michigan Farm Cooperatives have been organized to serve farm peo- Bureau and the participating members for organizing suggested that a "Local Mfairs" committee be appointed ple. In many instances, members and leaders of one and made active in each county, with these committees and supporting this marketing venture. We ur~e all cooperative know very little about other cooperatives. wheat producers to consider the merits of marketing charged with the responsibility of involving Farm Bureau Several counties have organized cooperative councils, in local affairs and problems. their wheat through this orderly marketing program. made up of leaders from all cooperatives which operate We ask that the feasibility of having participating This committee should study local issues, including in the counties. The purpose of this council is to create producers store Program wheat in their own farm storages those of a controversial nature. It should assist in re- an understanding of all organizations, an opportunity be studied. Also, efforts should be continued to expand search work on such things as zoning and bonding is- for leaders to become acquainted and a vehicle to solve the Program to include soft wheat grown in other states. sues. It should involve itself in local road, school, problems involving cooperatives. health, safety and finance matters. It should work We encourage County Farm Bureaus to take a leader- closely with the County Information Committee to bring ship role in operating and promoting County Cooper- FARM BUREAU MARKETING STUDIES such things to public attention. ative Councils. Farm Bureau affiliates are engaged in many success- ful marketing programs. Part of the reason for success MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS BY has been that these programs were called for by mem- CITIZENSIDP bers. Another reason has been that proper research has AFFILIATE COMPANIES Good citizenship consists of rights and responsibilities. been done prior to establishing the service. This re- It involves being INFORMED on issues, willingness to Farm Bureau affiliate companies have been organ- search includes need, economic feasibility and alterna- work and courage to act in our two-party political sys- ized to serve Farm Bureau members. The rapid growth tive methods of operations. tem of government and enterprise. in programs has shown that these companies have moved Members are ur~ed to look to their Farm Bureau to Michigan Farm Bureau will continue local training aggressively in this direction. improve their marketing opportunities. County Farm and incentive programs to encourage members to be- Growth in programs is sometimes more rapid than Bureau Boards should be informed of these needs. come active in the political party of their choice. Mem- understanding. We are concerned that members may County Boards should then request the assistance of the bers should pay particular attention to voting records not know of services available to them from their com- Michigan Farm Bureau in seeking solutions to these of incumbents at both the state and national levels, and panies. Understanding is the first step to participation. needs. should make every effort to support and elect candidates This understanding must be created with constant in- We ask the Board of Directors of the Michigan Farm who will support Farm Bureau policies. formation as well as advertising. Bureau to continue marketing studies as needs arise We urge Farm Bureau affiliate companies to utilize and resources permit. Members should also make regular contacts with their all existing Farm Bureau information programs to build Senators and Representatives to inform them of the im- a stronger communications network to inform members portance of issues affecting farmers and agriculture, and of the available programs and services of their organ- FARM BUREAU COMMODITY ACTIVITIES should not fail to than!~ them, personally or in writing, ization. Agricultural production and marketing is becoming for support given to agriculture's cause. more specialized. Farmers' problems are often commod- Through the years, Farm Bureau has provided oppor- PRODUCTION AND MARKETING PROGRAMS ity oriented. Farm Bureau, although de~I?ed as a g~n- tunities for members to gain information on citizenship eral farm organization, serves the speCific commodity matters. Activities. such as Legislative Seminars, Meet We believe that farmers should act through their own interests of members in many ways. Commodity and and Measure the Candidate Meetings, Young People's initiative to solve the problems confrontin~ them today. commodity marketing activities have long been a major Citizenship Seminars, Freedom Conferences and H~ri- Faced with low farm prices, the need for large amounts part of the Farm Bureau program. , tage Tours have been part of keeping our members In- of capital to operate" farming enterprises, the rapid As Farm Bureau grows larger and more diverse in its formed, and should be continued. changes in agricultural technology, and the interference membership composition, there is need to direct, more We urge that activities be conducted at the Michigan of the Federal government in agriculture, we accept the organization attention to the solution of members com- Farm Bureau and County Farm Bureau levels to moti- challenge to shape the future to the benefit of the family modity problems. We must provide additional oppor- vate members to accept their responsibilities as good farmer. As the largest and leading statewide farm or- tunities for more members to become active in their citizens. ganization, we have the responsibility to establish stand- commodity interest areas within the organization. ards for production and marketing programs to assure , The American Farm Bureau Federation and several that they work directly for the benefit of farmer mem- leading State Farm Bureaus have been investigating w~~s STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT bers. Farmers working through their own organization, in which Farm Bureau could better serve the specifiC We believe the maintenance of strong, independent, the Michigan Farm Bureau and its affiliate companies commodity interests of members. Mter several years of and responsible state and local government is imperative (MACMA and Farm Bureau Services) are utilizing cur- study, the AFBF has developed a proposal that would to the preservation of self-government and individual rent marketing tools, such as contract production of crops establish commodity divisions within Farm Bureau. freedoms. and livestock, ownership of processin~ facilities and bar- We ask that the Board of Directors explore ways to gaining. Use of these tools can be helpful in assuring better facilitate the commodity representation and ac- We urge our members to become more active in local a successful future for the family farm. affairs in order to retain decision-making powers as near tivities within the State and County Farm Bureaus. Con- the local level as possible. Only in this way can the We, therefore, support and endorse the efforts of the sideration should be given to developing commodity trend toward centralization of decisions at the Federal affiliate companies of Michigan Farm Bureau to provide divisions as proposed by the American Farm Bureau and State levels be curbed. production and marketing programs for members. Federation. FOURTEEN December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU EXPRESSES THANKS • • • other counties along Lake Michigan is of great economic Editorials by our AFBF President Shuman and MFB FARM BUREAU LIVESTOCK MARKETING importance to that part of Michigan and vital to the President Elton Smith contribute significantly to a better Michigan Farm Bureau should continue to develop understanding by the general public and all members. and expand livestock marketing programs such as the continued success of many producers in that area. In recent years, the ability of present facilities to ade- We urge all members to follow these examples at the Feeder Pig, Feeder Cattle and Order Buyer Divisions of local level. MACMA. A continued determined effort should be quately process the excellent fruits and vegetables pro- made to work with existing cooperatives to avoid dupli- duced is of increasing concern to many producers. Many processing plants, particularly in Northwest and Central DELEGATES TO AFBF ANNUAL MEETING cation of service. Furthermore, Michigan Farm Bureau Michigan, are small, poorly financed, inefficient and "Ve, as well as other State Farm Bureaus, have ac- should strive to develop contractual production and obsolete. cepted associate members into our organization who, marketing programs that assist in more orderly and ef- Modem, efficient processing and selling facilities in while interested, in agriculture, may not be farm owners fective marketing for livestock producers. .strategic locations are needed for this important segment or operators. As the nation's largest and most effective FARM BUREAU STUDIES of Michigan agriculture to grow and prosper. In order farm organization, it is important that our Farm Bureau New Farm Bureau programs have usually been pre- to establish the facilities needed, it may be necessary continue to be directed by farm people and that our ceded by a shtdy to determine the scope of a problem for producers, through their farm organization, to do policies be developed to reflect the ideas and ideals of and the facts involved. We believe this to be a sound it themselves. America's farm people. approach to the solution of a problem. We urge the 'Ve recommend that a study be made of the prob- Therefore, we urge that representation from State Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors to initiate lems of the processing industry and the feasibility of Farm Bureaus to the AFBF Annual Meeting be de- the following studies: establishing the facilities needed. termined on the basis of the farmer 'membership. -Dairy heard replacement service. The Order Buyer AFFILIA TE COMPANY AGREEMENTS STATUS OF PREVIOUS POLICIES Division of MACJ\'IA might possibly be used to mar- Agreements signed between County Farm Bureaus ket and supply dairy heard replacements. The policies adopted at the four previous annual and Farm Bureau affiliate companies have been used meetings are hereby reaffirmed except insofar as. they -Malting barley marketing services. Producers have to clearly define the responsibilities of parties involved. have been modified or supplemented by later policies, encountered uncertain market outlets and prices. It is of the utmost importance that every County Farm including those adopted ~t this annual meeting. All -Livestock and poultry operations licensing. Tech- Bureau Board review these agreements yearly. This will other policies shall be deemed to have lapsed except nological changes and environmental concerns dic- create a more clear understanding of the duties of both insofar as the Board of Directors may specifically find tate a need for study of any problems connected parties and lessen the chance of misunderstanding. that such a prior policy provides the only basis for action with concentrated commercial operations and the on a current problem. feasibility of licensing them. PUBLIC RELATIONS FOR AGRICULTURE -Soft white wheat utilization. Significant changes in Much has been said and written about improving the the production, utilization, exports and various de- image of agriculture. Many proposals have been made, mand factors are occurring. ranging from letters to the editor to the hiring of an advertising agency to "create" a favorable image. MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU POLICY IS -Retirement programs for farm employees. Compe- We believe that farmers have a favorable image with tition with industry for full-time farm labor is a BASED ON RESOLUTIONS- most people. 'Ve believe, however, that there must be definite problem. Development of a group retire- more adequate understanding of the role of farmers in men program or other fringe benefits could help • Developed through a program featuring individual our society. stabilize the agricultural labor force. The place to start in developing this understanding member participation CENTRAL SALES AGENCY is in our local areas. 'We must participate locally in nonfarm groups, such as church, civic activities, service Growers of seasonal commodities have traditionally clubs and other types of organizations. • Discussed in nearly 1100 Community Farm Bureaus marketed their produce on the basis of market conditions 'Ve urge County Farm Bureaus to conduct rural .. at harvest time. 'Ve believe that some growers will in- urban activities, farm visits, press relations meetings • Drafted by 69 County or Regional Farm Bureau Reso- creasingly desire to spread the risks and opportunities and other activities which \vill help create understanding of marketing over longer periods of time by owning their between farm and nonfarm people. lutions Committees, representing 77 counties. own produce after it has been processed. This spread- ing of risk is presently being used by some Farm Bureau 'VE COMMEND FOR UNSELFISH SERVICE • Approved by members in 69 County or Regional Farm members . While the practice increases the opporhtnity for Many of our fellow farmers are serving agriculture Bureau annual meetings farmers, it also tends to increase the number of sellers and our State as members of boards, commissions, com- on the market. 'Ve believe that the increased number of mittees and advisory groups on which agriculhtral rep- resentation is important to all of us . • Digested by 20-member State Policy Development sellers will offset the possible gain, and that only through cooperative selling of the finished products can members Often this service is rendered without any reimburse- Committee, composed by one member from each of truly gain an advantage from the shift in marketing ment for time and expenses involved. Within our own organization are also many who give the eleven districts, plus three representatives of the practices. We recommend that the Market Development Division of their time and talent to make Farm Bureau the ef- Farm Bureau Women, three from the Michigan Farm study the alternatives and propose a method for a co- fective voice of farmers. We commend these people and recognize them for Bureau Young Farmers, and three members at large operative central sales agency approach to merchandising member-owned processed, or. semi-finished, agriculhtral their unselfish service to agriculhtre. products . • Determined at State Annual Convention by voting FARM BUREAU LEADERSHIP PROCESSING AND SALES FACILITY STUDY delegates from County and Regional Farm Bureaus- Michigan Farm Bureau commends AFBF President Processing of the many high value fruit and vegetable Charles Shuman for his "Freedom is Courage" essay one delegate for each one hundred members crops produced in the Northwest, West Central and which received the Freedom Foundation award. Leuenberger, Saginaw, District 8 Smith Reelected and Richard \Vieland, EHsworth, MFB President District 10. Walter Frahm, Frank- enmuth and James Sayre, BeUe- ville were reelected to two year terms as directors-at-Iarge. Other members of the 16 mem- ber board are Arthur Bailey, Schoolcraft; Andrew Jackson, HoweJl; David Morris, Grand Ledge; Kenneth Bull, Bailey; Eu- gene Roberts, Lake Citv and Franklin Schwiderson, Dafter. Mrs. Jerold Topliff, Eaton Rapids, chairman, Michigan Farm Bureau Women's Committee, will serve the second year of a two- year term. She is also a member of the Board of Directors. Also serving on the Board will be MACMA AND MASA ... shared a display booth in the Products Show during annual meeting David Diehl, Jr., Dansville, newly in the Grand Rapids Civic Auditorium. Manning the booth was John Heim, (left) MACMA N. E. elected chainnan of the Farm Bu- Field Representative; Clarence King (center), Mgr. Branch Co. Farm Bureau Oil Co. and Ron Jen- reau Young Fanners Committee. sen, MACMA West Central Field Representative. ELTON R. SMITH ----------------------------- Elton R. Smith, Kent County dairyman, has been reelected president of Michigan Farm Bu- reau. The action was taken at the annual reorganization meet- ing of the Board of Directors, following the three-day annual meeting of the 58,000 member organization. Renamed vice president was Dean Pridgeon, Branch County farm leader. John Laurie, Tuscola County dairyman was elected to the Executive Committee. Others .-relected were Dan E. Reed, secretary-manager; WiJIiam Beat- tie, treasurer and 'ViJIiam \Vilk- inson, assistant secretary. Five district directors were re- elected at the three day meeting ... Dean Pridgeon, Montgomery, STRAW HATS AND GOLD COATS ... were the "garb of the day" District 2; Elton R. Smith, Cale- for those working the Product Show. Straw-hatted Dave Klink, MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU'S 1971 .•. insignia, "The New Ag Age" greeted the donia, District 4; John Laurie, FPC, took the opportunity to discuss their complete tire line with 512 voting delegates and other guests in the Civic Auditorium, Grand Rapids, Cass City, District 6; Harvey Kent county salesman Larry Parrish. when they convened for the Michigan Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 FIFTEEN 11 VOTE IIYES ON CHERRY MARKETING ORDER! MARKETING AND COMMODITIES MEMBERS OF T~E RED. TART ... Cherry Div. Mkt'g. Committee are: (left to 'right, seated) John Boals, Antrim County; John Hawl~y, 2nd. Vice-Chairman, Oceana County; P. C. "Pete" Morrison Jr., Chairman, Grand Traverse County; Arthur Dowd, MACMA FEEDER CATTLE 1st Vlce-Chalrm?n, Van ~uren County; Harry A. Foster, Secretary-Manager, Red Tart Cherry Division Marketing Committee and Hugh Bowling, Manistee County. (left to right, standing:) Donald Barden, MACMA Executive Committee; Vernon Sill, Allegan County; lawrence Stover, Berrien. County; Noel Baumberger, leelanau County; Keith Moore, Newaygo County and MACMA Feeder Cattle Division Order Buyer Division Tom Runge, leelanau County. The co~mlttee members not present when the picture was taken are John Minnema, Grand Traverse County; James Evans, Benzie County; H. James Fitch, Mason County and Rodney Bull, Muskegon County. The fall feeder cattle move- An additional year-around sup- ment has been completed in ply of top-quality, well-described northern Michigan for MACMA feeder cattle at competitive prices MACMA Urges Favorable Vote feeder cattle members. Nearly are available through the newly 1,000 head of feeder cattle were established MACMA Order Buyer On Tart Cherry Marketing assembled, graded, weighed and Division. Excellent progress has marketed to Michigan cattle feed- been made in supplying member Agreetnent and Order ers for members in the eastern cattle feeders .with imported cat- Upper Peninsula on October 15 tle this fall. This service is a MACMA members have been ed by the MACMA Red Tart possession of growers and handl- and November 5. Bob McCory, part of the new nationally co- involved in the development of Cherry Marketing Committee, ers on or about November 23, chairman of the MACMA Feeder ordinated AAMA feeder cattle an orderly marketing program for and has been given working ap- reports Foster. Cattle Marketing Committee, said marketing program that involves red tart cherries, according to proval by MACMA. MACMA urges all growers to "Calf producing members receiv- selling states such as Colorado, Harry A. Foster, Secretary-Man- MACMA members testified at cast a favorable vote and return ager, Red Tart Cherry Division, the early summer hearings con- their ballot immediately to the ed favorable prices for their cattle Oklahoma, Virginia and Arkansas MACMA. ducted by the U. S. Department and enthusiasm for expansion in and includes buying states such USDA. Adequate time will be Even during the years of reIa- of Agriculture, and are on record permitted, however, for growers membership and volume in the as Michigan and Iowa. tively high prices, MACMA as proponents of this orderlv to cast their ballot, as the dead- coming year are excellent." This The AAMA is the marketing leaders were aware of the fluctu- marketing program. ' line for casting these votes is new sales service for northern bargaining affiliate of the Amer- ating production and supply situ- The main feature of the pro- Wednesday, December 9. Any Michigan calf producers was ini- ation and corresponding fluctuat- posed Market Order program pro- growers who misplace their bal- tiated at the request of Farm ican Farm Bureau Federation. ing prices. As they studied the vides for the storage of surplus lot may secure one by contacting Bureau members in feeder cattle The AAMA collects and dissemi- tart cherry industry's marketing cherries produced in a given year, their County Extension Office. producing areas. Rapid progress nates to member associations sup- needs, it became apparent that to be made available to the mar- Anv grower who needs addi- has taken place since July in or- ply and market information on a in order to successfully solve these- ket in times of apparent demand tional information to answer ganizing and initiating the new weekly basis. This information is major problems, it would require or in short crop years. This stor- questions as to how this proposed division. then made available to Order working with tart cherry produc- age feature permits the industry marketing program will affect The program offers cattle feed- Buyer Division members. ers and handlers on a multi-state to attack the fluctuating produc- them should contact their County ers an opportunity to purchase basis. tion and supply situation, and Extension Office, a MACMA These states plus many addi- The study and review of orderly permits the marketers of cherries specifically graded, weighed and Committeeman, or the MACMA tional states have feeder cattle marketing alternatives led to the to work aggressively for expanded sorted calves delivered direct to office directly. available through their state Farm development and drafting of the markets and utilization of tart their feedlot on the day of the proposed Marketing Agreement cherries, and for improvement of MACMA believes that when assembly. The cattle are pur- Bureau marketing associations and Order by an industry group the profitability of this crop to growers understand how the pro- chased by private treaty either by and are made available weekly which included growers and the growers and handlers. posed Market Order program will telephone or after personal exam- through the AAMA service. De- handlers. Each part of the pro- Latest word from the USDA work, they will be in favor of this proposed orderly marketing ination of the cattle. Plans for tailed trading practices and guide- posed Marketing Agreement and indicates that the referendum will next year include an increase in lines between member associa- Order has been carefully analyz- be held and ballots will be in the program. volume, standardizing some pre- tions assure cattle feeders of de- conditioning practices, improving pendable feeder cattle on a vol- Farm Bureau Marketing Agreement quality and expanding to other areas of northern Michigan. ume basis. Membership and more And Order for Reel Tart Cherries The present l\fACMA Feeder information on participation and purchase of cattle through the At the recent annual meeting of the Michigan Farm Bureau, a policy was adopted sup- Cattle Marketing Committee is: Order Buyer Division may be ob- porting the proposed Federal Marketing Agreement and Order for red tart cherries. Robert l\fcCory, Chairman, Daf- tained by writing or calling the The policy adopted at the recent Michigan Farm Bureau Annual ~feeting in Grand ter; John W. ZeIIar, Vice Chair- Rapids, said. 'We endorse the proposed Federal Marketing Order program for red tart man, Gennfask; Larry McTiver, MACMA Order Buyer Office at cherries. We believe the Order, if enacted, will aid in the expansion of marketing and the Newberry; Gordon Andrews, 4000 North Grand River Avenne, utilization of red tart cherries, and improve the profitability of the cherry industry for Sault Ste. Marie and Carl Eagle, Box 960, Lansing, Mich. 48904, producers and processors. We encourage cherry producers to favor VIe cherry Marketing Sault Ste. Marie. telephone 517-485-8121 Ext. 372. Order when it comes to a vote." - Farm Bureau has supported industry marketing agreements and orders for many years, and has had policies adopted each year at annual meetings to provide guidelines for the PROCESSING APPLE MARKETING COMMITTEE drafting of industry marketing programs. Farm Bureau leaders recognized that the proposed Marketing Agreement and Order .lor red tart cherries r;l et policy guidelines and was drafted specifically to aid cherry growers and handlers to cope with fluctuating production and supply situation. The storage of cer- tain surplus cherries produced in a given year will aid in the expansion of cherry markets and improve the profitability of the cherry crop to growers and handlers. The proposed Marketing Agreement and Order includes a Great Lakes and eastern states area consisting of Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. This production area also represents a tart cherry marketing unit. Every five years the Market Order program must be reviewed and voted upon by the industry for the continuation of the program. Many cherry producers who have had reservations in general about Marketing Agree- ments and Orders have said that this will give the cherry industry an opportunity to develop an aggressive marketing program attacking the wide fluctuating production and ~~~ supply situation, according to Harry A. Foster, Secretary-Manager, Red Tart Cherry Di- MEMBERS OF THE PROCESSING ... Apple Marketing Committee vision, MACMA. Many of these same growers have recently said, in view of the "depres- are left to right: Lester Kober, Grand Rapids; William Davis, sion prices" of the last two years: 'We have got to do something to help ourselves:' re- Belding; Leon Hadaway, Onekama; Donald Barden, South Haven; Walter Wightman, Fennville; Robert Braden, Manager, ports Foster. MACMA; George Stover, Berrien Springs; Glenn Robotham, Both growers and handler responsibilities are outlined specifically in the proposed Mar- Beulah; Andrew Jager, Fennville; Ray Anderson, Chief; Jerry keting Order. Sietsema, Grand Rapids and Howard Gilmer, Augusta. SIXTEEN December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS A fellow said the other day that the hospital in his community had just ripped down one big section of its building facilities only to build another be- side it. To all appearances, it seemed like a pretty foolish venture and a terribly expensive one. He could only conclude that it is no wonder health costs are jumping out of sight and he continued to become more incensed at the wastefulness that was directly affecting his health care costs. Health care costs are up and this month's discus- Current annual rate of increasing hospital charges ported the present administration rejected the ideas sion topic reviews some of the reasons why. In the in Michigan is estimated at 15 percent, along with as improper, unworkable and too costly a proposal. case of the hospital building, as explained by Mr. a current annual rate of increasing physician charges John G. Veneman, undersecretary of Health, Ed?- Marlie Drew, coordinator, County Farm Bureau of eight percent. Drew said that people cannot con.:: cation and Welfare said the hill would cost $77 hil- Offices, Field Operations Division of Michigan Farm tinue to match the payments of these inflationary lion in 1974 and would be equivalent to a federal Bureau, such acts as completely tearing down one rates and that alternatives are being sought. He health tax of over $1,000 per year for every house- building and constructing another, in the long run, explained that health costs can be held down, but hold in the United States. could really be the cheapest way to do it. Unlike first, it will take a massive education program on ordinary buildings, Drew said, a hospital complex the part of every facet of our society to understand ANOTHER ALTERNATIVE has many special needs, and of course, the greatest just how it can be done. But there is another alternative as MFB's Marlie need is to insure the health of the patient. And to The present health system is ineffective and it Drew explains, which will maintain personal do this, he explained, if you have been into a modern needs to be changed, he said. Drew explained that initiative and high quality service. He said, one way hospital room, you have probably noticed all the the present system grew up so clumsily because to accomplish this is through a central organization special plugs and gadgets coming out of the wall. there never has been any central control to build or authority to better direct hospital functions on a Among them there probably are many outlets in- efficiency into our hospitals. He said, the system is regional basis where all the specialists of medicine cluding provisions for piped in oxygen for emer- is almost completely unorganized, where most hos- in an area could be utilized to their fullest extent. gencies. In the ~ast, when patients needed oxygen pitals are independent of each other, where each But as it is now, he said, there are no agencies to it often was a long trip to wheel in the tanks and sometimes tries to outdo the other in facilities, where effectively put this theory to work. more dangerous for the patients health, but now expensive equipment is duplicated instead of c?- Drew continued, .We live in an age of specialists oxygen is available in a matter of seconds. So you operatively sharing services at less expense. He saId can see, he explained, building all kinds of special and contrary to what many people may believe it can that only in recent years has there been a healthy help to slow rising costs." Today if we were still in equipment into the wall, out of the way, would be growing public awareness and concern for the prob- the days of the general practitioner, Drew explained, near to impossible to do in a building not designed lem. for this type of remodeling. people never would get treated. "Health cost can be reduced when people decide Drew, the health plan coordinator for ~1FB mem- He said advantages built into this concept of they want to do something about it," Drew explained. bers, explains the fast rise in health costs that are regionalized hospital and doctor facilities wo~ld be more expert service given to a greater proportion of being charged to patients goes further than con- the citizenry. However, he added, folks might have struction of new buildings. He said, "Probably the biggest single factor is in. DISCUSSION TOPIC to drive a little further to get this service, but it would work best for the needs of the people. the area of wages." He explained that for years the The need for more and better service will not de- non-professional employees have been paid less than By GARY A. KLEINHENN employees with comparable work in other indus- crease; he said. For instance in the U. S. we have Dire eto r, Education and Research over two hundred million people and in thirty years. tries. In recent years this group has been emphasiz- ing union organization and hard bargaining. It is population is expected to climb to three hundred not unusual to hear of these hospital personnel walk- million. ing off the job to apply pressure on the management He said, it is quite similar to the Farm Bureau phil- Drew further emphasized the need for reorganiza- to say little of the needy patient, he said. An example osphy - that it takes more than one person to get tion. He said that the doctor shortage is a real is the recent walk-out at Flint's Hurley Hospital. the job done, and that people have to join together problem. He said that nationally our yearly gradu- Professional help, such as nurses, are also bargain- in numbers to effectively surmount obstacles be- ates from medical schools number only some 9,000, ing .. Drew said, so I believe this area of our health fore them. and that if this graduate figure were doubled every cost problems will not be immediately solved. There are alternatives that are available, he said, year it would still take twenty years to come up with some good and some not so good. an adequate number of physicians. Another factor is the cost of highly technical equip- The not so good, he believes, is in the proposal And he explained, reorganization of health care ment, that amounts to thousands of dollars. In this for a national health plan or in other words socialized units set up on a regional basis would also allow for instance, Drew said, the need for such equipment medicine. Many think that this means free medical full utilization of specialized equipment for less may be small per unit even though it is still a fixed treatment, Drew said, but really it is just the opposite. frequent types of cases .. cost of the hospital, they have to pay for it. Drew He predicted that such a plan, if ever inacted, would Furthermore a regionally organized medical facil- compared it with a farmer buying a $20,000 combine be more inflationary to the nation, and more detri- ity based on geography and population would also and only using it one day a year. "If you can't keep mental to the quality of treatment given a patient increase the efficiency of building facilites. Small it working, and doing the job for you, then it is hard than other proposed plans. hospitals for example are much more costly to oper- for a farmer to justify the expense. However, in the Drew outlined examples of many countries with ate than would be this type, he said. case of hospital care, we're dealing with human life, national socialized medicine. The most notable was and there is a continual striving for the best service The need is great, there are over 54 million people in England where medical people have been stripped available," he said. living in rural areas alone that need better service. of personal incentive to earn a better way of life. However, some resistence to the regional idea is THE COST The result, Drew said, is that it is extremely difficult that it is not strong on personalized service, for England to keep top notch medical people. Farm Bureau members from August '68 to July '69 Drew said, and this is probably the biggest factor What this means to the patient is low quality treat- undercut the national average hospital stay of 8.4 that must be overcome before the public will push ment, and in America, Drew said, I don't believe rve days to 8.13 days. Average hospital charges na- for the idea. ever met anyone who would be satisfied with second- tionally is $565.00 while Farm Bureau members pay class treabnent. Folks want to be as healthy as they To bolster better health care, through regional nearly sixty dollars less with an average bill of possibly can. concept, a plan has been formulated through the $506.52. Costs continue to climb. Furthermore, there is a bigger question of "social- Michigan Community Health Services study during The national average for current per day hospital ized medicine" that should be answered. Is this the a four year compilation of data sponsored by a grant cost is $68.00. Michigan's per day hospital cost is road Americans want to take? Eugene Holman from the U. S. Public Health Service, and the W. K. $84.29. In comparison, Boston, Massachusetts, has adeptly pointed out: Kellogg Foundation. The study, «The Committee of current average daily cost of $100.00 per patient! Forty Report of Recommendations," encourages the On the other hand, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, aver- "There is a price tag on human liberty. That establishment of uniform regions in Michigan for price is the willingness to assume the responsi- the purposes of planning organizing and implement- ages a low of $67.00. bilities of being free men. Payment of this price ing comprehensive health programs. According to Drew, the high cost of hospital care is a personal matter with each of us. It is not in Michigan is due to our highly industrialized state. The 152 page report is a working guide for com- something we can get others to pay for us. To He said that with higher wage demands than most munities. It explains that the Pllblic's unawareness let others carry the responsibilities of freedom states. and with the availability of on-the-job prepaid of existing health problems and needs is perhaps and the work and worry that accompany them - health care plans, an average person's frequency of the most critical dilemma facing community health while we share only in the benefits - may be a agencies today. hospital visits increases distinctly. Subsequently, an very human impulse, but it is likely to be fatal." already shortage of facilities become increasingly For further information discussion groups can write burdened while health care plans become more Action to push a national health insurance pro- to the Michigan Community Health Services Study, expensive. gram through congress failed recently, as UPI re- 109 South Observatory, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104. MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 SEVENTEEN belong to Michigan Farm Bureau. patient extras in accordance with BLUE CROSS. BLUE SHIELD by Marlie Drew By joining together in the Farm your contract coverage. You can Bureau, they have formed a strong get this kind of coverage without The words contained in the voice which has resulted in many the inconvenience of confusing probably relate the words to his interpretation, there are some Michigan Blue Cross and Blue successes for the benefit of all claim forms - just show your or her own personal experience basic facts which can be applied members. Blue Cross and Blue Shield Shield advertisement in this issue with, or exposure to Michigan to them. of the Farm News will mean Michigan Blue Cross and Blue identification card - anywhere in Farm Bureau and Michigan Blue many things to many peqple. STRENGTH Shield provide health care pro- the world. Cross and Blue Shield. Every Farm Bureau member can tection for over five million .However, aside from personal There are 57,940 families who people in Michigan. The steady KNOWLEDGE growth of these plans over the Michigan Farm Bureau is an Put them together past thirty years can be attributed to the basic concept under which organization they operate. That is the principle in agriculture, working for the made up of people and what have you got? of providing service benefits benefit of the farmer. By work- under a contractural relationship ing together for the past 50 years, with the providers of care. This through Michigan Farm Bureau, is the real strength of the pro- farmers have been able to keep gram, the guaranteed benefits to pace by receiving important in- the subscribed through contracts formation relating to all aspects of between the hospital, the doctor the farm economy. Farm Bureau and the subscriber. can be your best source of this knowledge and thus make a tough VALUE business a little easier. The best health care value The concept of pre-paid health available today is the program care is not new, but not as old as offered through your membership the principles on which the Farm in Michigan Farm Bureau and the Bureau was founded. The need Michigan Blue Cross and Blue was there as a result of the social Shield. For every dollar received, and economic dilemma of the ninety-five cents is returned in thirties. As a result, the hospitals the form of payment for benefits. and doctors in Michigan formed Any payment for these benefits two prepayment organizations to is on a cost-plus basis to hospitals help people pay for their needed which stretches the dollar even hospital and medical care - Blue farther. Cross and Blue Shield. Under the guidance of both the health care BENEFITS providers and community leaders The relatively' small dollar representing all fields in Mich- amount you pay for membership igan, they have grown to their • Strength entitles you to many benefits present status as being in the top available only through your Farm three plans in the nation. These Bureau. organizations are good examples - Value -Knowledge Eligible members have the op- of' the blend of health care ex- portunity to take advantage of perts and community leaders - Benefits • Responsibility health care benefits through a working together voluntarily to "true group" program. Full serv- provide an important service to ice benefits covering most hos- the p.eople of Michigan. pital and doctor services without dollar limit. For example, :365 KEEP YOUR SERVICE ELIGI- MICHIGAN" BlUECROSSAND. BWESHIElD days of paid-in-full care covering BILITY - PAY YOUR DUES BY room and board and costly in- JANUARY 15, 1971 SAVE TIME AND MONEY BY BUYING THROUGH THE [Cut & .MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU ORDER-BY-MAIL PLAN TODAY Save] STEREO TAPE PLAYER LUGGAGE No. 1110 - AMELIA EARHART Wom- As one of the Michigan Farm Bureau ..members, you are entitled en's Train Case. Cordovan, Avocado to purchase anyone or more of the exciting, national brand merchandise No. 1099 - ROSS STEREO 8- Track No. 1107 - AMELIA EARHART Men's Green, Light Blue, White, Melon, Red, offered by the Michigan Farm Bureau's Order-by-Mail plan. You save Tape Player and am/fm-fm Stereo Attache case with deck top divider. Charcoal. 91h" x q%" x 15". $21.95 Multiplex Combination Instant solid Cordovan and Charcoal Bult-in file value. Your cost $13.60, plus 54t sit time and money by buying through this new service to Michigan Farm state, automatic and manual track for lel:tal folders. 14 ~" It 41h" x 18%". and $1.14 ship. Send $15.28 Bureau members. Members and their family only are allowed to make switchin~, track pilot light. indicator $22.95 value. Your cost $14.38, plus lil:tht, vernier slide rule tuning, cross- No. l111-AMELIA EARHART 21" purchases at the cost prices listed. Orders for purchases by others wiII 58t sit and $1.21 ship. Send $16.17 Weekender. Cordovan, Avocado Green, over speaker system, 70-watt output not be honored. power. Main unit 191h" x 10" x 4%". Light Blue, White, Melon, Red, Char- No. 1108 - AMELIA EARHART Com- coal. Three luxuriously ruffled, shirred Speaker size 14%" x 9" x 5~". $189.50 panion Suitcase. Man tailored, co- value. Your cost $111.88 plus $4A8 pockets. Quilted top and bottom. 16%" COOKWARE SETS ELECTRIC FRY PAN ordinated fabric. Cordovan and Char- It 6*" x 21%". $24.95 value. Your sales tax and $3.05 ship. Send $119.41 coal. Ideal for "carry-on". $24.95 cost $15.63, plus 63t sit and $1.27 No. 1088 - MASTERBILT BY MIRRO No. 1093 - MIRRO-MATIC MAN- value. Your cost $15.63 plus 63t sit ship. Send $17.53 HATTAN electric Fry Pan. Extra deep. RADIOS and $1.34 ship. Send $17.60 7-piece heavy quality aluminum cook- ware set. Super tough Teflon II inside. Extra tall cover. Super tough Teflon II No. 1112 - AMELIA EARHART 27" No. 1l0G-ROSS AM-~f Digital Clock Avocado and Poppy. $24.99 value. Your insi~. Avocado and Harvest Gold. Radio. Solid state chassis. Unique dial No. 1109 - AMELIA EARHART Men's Pullman. Cordovan, Avocado Green, cost $15.36 plus 62t Sales Tax and Value $28.99. Your cost $17.28 plus counter with wake up to music features. Two-Suiter. Two removable molded Lil:tht Blue, White, Melon, Red, Char- $1.50 shiplhdl. Send $17.48 69t Sales Tax and $1.25 ship/hld. 60 minutes sleep switch. Illuminated hangers with convenient fold-and-hold. coal. Three luxuriously ruffled, shirred Send $19.22 clock face. Hand rubbed walnut cabinet Cordovan and Charcoal. $36.95 value. pockets. Quilted top and bottom. $36.95 DELUXE MIRRO-MATIC PRESSURE 13" x 5%" x 4". $39.95 value. Your Your cost $23.13, plus 93t sit and value. Your cost $23.13, plus 93t sit COOKERS. Rack, recipe book included. cost $27.50 plus $1.10 sit and 7lt $1.73 ship. Send $25.79 and $1.60 ship. Send $25.66 MENS WATCHES ship. Send $29.31. No. 1094 - SHEFFIELD 25-jewel PRESSURE COOKERS silvertone water resistant, automatic No. 1101 - ROSS portable Clock AM- day I date. Center expansion bracelet. FM Radio. Solid state Battery operated. Built-in AFC for drift-free FM. Black FARM BUREAU WIL-WAY PREMIUM ORDER FORM No. 1089A - (4 qt.) - $17.49 value. $45.00 value. Your cost $33.75 plus Your cost $8.69, plus 35t Sales Tax and $1.35 sit plus 52t ship. Send $35.62 Case with Chrome Trim. 61h" x 3 % " $1.05 Shiplhdl. Send $10.09 x 1 %". $19.95 value. Your cost $11.88 Each piece of merchandise listed in this Wil-Way Premiums adver- No. 1095 - SHEFFIELD HEAVY- plus 47t sit and 58t ship. Send $12.93 tisement carries a key number corresponding to the number on this No. 1089B - (6 qt) - $21.49 value. DUTY wrist watch silvertone, 17-jewel, HOME REFERENCE LIBRARY Farm Bureau Order-by-Mail card. Circle the appropriate number or Your cost $11.43, plus 46t Sales Ta.'t water resistant, chronograph calendar, and $1.20 Ship/hdl. Send $13.09 numbers of merchandise you wish to purchase and complete the bla-:k alligator strap, $75.00 value. Your cost $56.25 plus $2.25 sit and 52t No. 1102 - COLUMBIA Encyclopedia necessary information as to color and size. All merchandise carries No. 1089C - (8 qt.) - $27.99 value. Set. 19 sections plus durable binder. ship. Send $59.02 75,000 articles, 20 world maps, 500 il- the manufacturer's warranty. Attach your name and .address label Your cost $16.44, plus 66t Sales Tax and $1.50 Ship/hdl. Send $18.60 lustrations. $49.50 value. Your cost from your issue of the Michigan Farm Bureau News to the order form. $17.23, plus 69t sit and 88t ship. Fill in the amount of your check or money order and mail to '\-Vil-Way WOMENS WATCHES Send $18.80 No. 1089D - (16 qt.~ - $36.99 value. Premiums, Box 636, Adrian, Michigan 49221. Allow a minimum of Your cost $22.89, plu.; 92t Sales Tax and $1.90 Ship/hdl. Send $25.71. No. 1096A - SHEFFIELD, Goldentone No. 1103 - WEBSTER'S New Twenti- three weeks for delivery. Void where prohibited. Savonette pendant watch. $23.50 value. eth Century Unabridged Dictionary. Your cost $17.63 plus 7lt sit and 52t $49.50 value. Your cost $17.23. plus ship. Send $18.86. 69t sit and 88t ship. Send $18.80 1088 1089A 1089B 1089C 1089D 1090 1091 1092 1093 PARTY PERKS No. 1096B - SHEFFIELD Bracelet 1100 1101 No. 1090 - MIRRO COLORMODE 30- watch. Gold or Silvertone, imported BLENDER 1094 1095 l096A 1096B 1097 1098 1099 cup party perks, Poppy and Avocado. synthetic Spinnette crystal. $30.00 val- $16.99 value. Your cost $10.50, plus use. Your cost $22.50 plus 90t sit and No. 1l04-HAMILTON BEACH 8- 1102 1103 1104 1105 1106 1107 1108 1109 1110 Pushbutton Blender. Generous 40-oz. 42t Sales Tax and $1.05 shiplhdl. Send 52t ship. Send $23.92 $11.97 container conveniently opens at both 1111 1112 ends. Available in handsome white Avocado or Harvest Gold base with WALKIE TALKIES white deck. $28.95 value. Your cost Color Size _ AUTOMATIC PERCOLATORS $17.95, plus 72t sit and 97t ship. No. 1091- MIRRO 5-10 cup automatic No. 1097 - ROSS WALKIE TA~: Send $19.64. Solid state 1h mile range, call alert percolator. Avocado, Harvest Gold, Pop- system. Separate 'push to talk' and vol- ELECTRIC KNIFE Name and Address py. Value $15.99. Your cost $7.98, plus ume controls-8-section telescopic anten- 32t Sales Tax and 65t shiplhdl. Send No. 1105 - HAMILTON BEACH, Two- ATTACH NAME AND ADDRESS LABEL na. 51h" It 21h" It 1 % " . Break resist- $8.95 Tone Electric Knife with famous "hole ant plastic case, per pair $22.95 value. FROM MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU NE'VS HERE. Your cost $13.75 plus 55t sit and 52t in the handle". Avocado. Comes in ship. Send $14.82 compact travel case. $19.95 value. Your FRENCH FRYER cost $11.56. plus 46t sit and 65t ship. I am enclosing my check in the amount of $, for my No. 1092 - MIRRO MANHATTAN electric French Fryer and Buffet Cooker. Super tough Teflon inside, removable * No. 1098 - ROSS WALKIE TALKIE. Two channel 1 mile range. Separate volume push to talk and "call alert" Send $12.67 CANDLE SET purchase, Michigan sales tax and shipping costs. If address is a Box or Rural Route number only indicate road or street heat control, aluminum food basket. controls. Telescopic 9-section antenna, address for U.P.S. delivery. Diecast Chrome front and high-impact No. 1106 - BISCO Danish Steel 12- Avocado $23.99. and Harvest Your cost $14.64, Gold. Value plus 59t plastic back 61h" x 2 *" x 1 *". value. Your cost $20.00 per pair, plus $32.95 piece canrlle ~et. 4 holders and 8-11" candles. $7.95 value. Your cost $5.96, Sales Tax and $1.30 shiplhdl. Send plus 24t sit and 82t ship. Send $7.02 $16.53 80t sit and 5at ship. Send $21.38 EIGHTEEN December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS DISCUSSION TOPIC SUMMARY September Topic: School Finances In The Near Future - 677 groups reporting - 6,830 participants. Question for the U.P. groups: How do you explain your 4th and 7th graders scoring higher on a district basis than other areas of the state, according to the statewide TO GREENER PASTURES FLY WITH US PREVEIT Fool Rol assessment program? Answers included: Good teachers, emphasis on basics, more discipline, less crowding, less affluence makes parents and students more responsible, less disturbance as to racial problems, fewer broken homes and easier and slower pace of living. Q. Should "accountability" of school system be employed in your district. A. It can be, 22 groups; it should be, 309 groups. Is it employed? Yes, 127. Q. Do you believe school finances can be improved through better management practices. A. Yes, 575; No, 28. Q.' How? A. Ylith 60 groups said schools should have trained business managers and more conscientious administrators and boards. Q. Have any of your schools been forced to cut back in school sessions because of the lack of funds? A. Yes, 135; No, 536. Q. What is your opinion about the funds? A. 135 groups oppose it. saying, "ownership creates ap- preciation;" 78 groups said books only; 27 groups said they like it, while 24 groups said it is too socialistic. October Topic: Fann Unionization - \Vhere Is It Headed? Five- hundred-forty-seven questionnaires returned - 5,500 participants Question: 'Vhat effect will unionization efforts have on agriculture? 187 groups said it would force many farmers out of farming; 100 groups said it would cause higher food prices, while 90 groups said it would increase mechanization and require more skilled labor. Q. Should fanners favor legislation to curb Wlionizers and to set up Canadian Pacific Air's 9th Annual Farmers' and Ranchers' Tours rules and regulations to give farmers 8. bargaining lever? A. 519 Will Take You Where Sun's Gone for the Winter. groups said yes and 22 groups said no. Over 300 groups said farmers should start by promoting legislation. Q. Does your group favor the Murphy Bill? A. 451 yesses and 20 noes. 351 groups THE SOUTH PACIFIC indicated it provides a measure of protection for both farmers and 27 DAYS - $1739° Departs Lansing, Mich. February 9, 1971. workers. This vacation begins with a visit to the State of Hawaii. Then it's on to New Zealand where you'll visit the cities and the incredibly beautiful countryside, see different types of farms and have lots of time to get to know your farm hosts. From the city of Christchurch you'll fly on to Australia for a nine-day tour that will take you to cotton' farms, cattle ranches and the largest wheat growing property in the world. You'll be introduced to local farmers and agricultural administrators who can tell you all about the farming methods that have proved successful fOT them. Of course, you'll have time for sightseeing and shopping, too, in the bustling city of Sydney. And if you like, you can add a ten-day extension to your trip which will take you to Hong Kong and Japan. o Tour price includes retum air fare from Lansing, Detroit or Chicago, ground transportation by special motorcoach, hotel accommodation and most meals OJ' a sharing basis. Optional extension - $2202.00. ---~--------------------------- You can get full details free by mailing this coupon. Please send me free, detailed information on the Special Farmers' and Ranchers' tour departing February 9, 1971. NAME: ADPRESS: per ~nimal TELEPHONE' 0 Interested in Optional Extension . Provides Mail to: CP AIR Farmers' and Ranchers' Tours, • TRACE MINERALS Mill Heater MMV-400 is not a furnace ... Michigan Farm News, .SALT .EDDI P. O. Box 960, it's a MONEY MAKING MACHINE!! Lansing, Michigan 48904 U.S.A. Hardy Foot Rot Salt Medicated comes in bags or blocks. Mix or Here's how the Mill Heater MMVoo400 makes money for you: feed free choice• • It provides instant heat to warm work areas. Warmth makes .RECOMMENDED-for milk cows, emloyees more productive-more profitable. calves, beef, sheep and lambs . • It saves money on fuel bills ... using NO.1 fuel oil or kerosene 3-BEDROOM, CONTEMPRI HOMES Supplies all salt and trace mineral -cost is less than 40~ per hour .• needs, too. ~:JP.J:;r . -:., .It reduces insurance rates because this high output furnace :f~ .~ '. is equipped with reliable protection devices and is installed outside the building. The combination-RELIABLE PROTECTION DEVICES and OUTSIDE INSTALLATION- reduces fire risks and makes money for you in insurance savings .. Co..lwI'. Y.. The MMV-400 adds up to money saved ... and that's money ........ I...... earned. SeI ... 01111.. If you still choose to call it a furnace ... OK. But write and ask us about the money machine ... the Mill Heater MMVoo400! ------------------- Wt&e l&w FInn Carnes Fht FaRm~ Clip this coupon to your letterheaa and mail to: Mill Heater, UNTIL 2/15/71, we will deliver the 1056 sq. ft. home up Koehring, Master Division, P.O. Box 157, Dayton, Ohio 45401. to 100 miles and erect it on your foundation for $13,000, Name plus Michigan sales tax. Address Approved by FHA, VA, and Farm Home City State Zip BAKER'S COMMUNITY HOMES Phone (517) 862-5480 214 W. Pine Street Elsie, Michigan 48831 BUreaU FARM BUREAU .SBMCEa INC FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE SPECIAL RATE TO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS: 25 words for $2.00 each edition. Additional words, 10 cents each. Figures such as 12 or $12.50 count as one word. NON-MEMBER advertisers: 15 cents per word one edition, two or more editions, 10 cents per word. Copy deadline: 20th of the month. 8 FARM EQU~PMENT 20 LIVESTOCK 26 POULTRY 36 MISCELLANEOUS 36 MISCELLANEOUS KLAGER'S DEKALB PROFIT PULLETS FREE CIRCULAR. COUNTRY RECORDS WANTED HOMEWORKERS: $100 week- PIPE - NEW AND USED ... One inch REGISTERED DUROCS. Top quality - Order your started pullets that have - or tape cartridges - fiddle tunes- ly addressing em'elopes. For details send through 36 inch, valves, fittings and tanks. boars and gilts. Production data and car- bcen raised on a proven growing program. blue grass, etc. ~lac "'iseman, J. E. 25t and large, stamped, self-addressed en- Suitable for irrigation, dams and sluice. cass information available, Bvrum & Sons. RFD #1, Onondaga, Michiszan. Phone The growing birds are inspected weekly Mainer, others. Uncle Jim O'Neal, Box velope to: WJR Enterprises, Box 44125, ~fidway Supply Companv. ~n"{ 7~ 1, Jack- Department M7. Cincinnati, Ohio 45244. son, Michigan. Phone: 517 787-1350. 517 - 628-2641. (2-tf-25b) 26 by trained staff, vaccinated, debeaked and AMFN, Arcadia, California 91006. delivered by us in clean crates. If you (6-lOt-26p) (12-tf-26b) ( 1-12t-28b) 8 HEREFORD BULLS-pure bred herd keep records, you will keep KLAGER DE- ------ sires. Ready for service. Also, recistered KALBS. KLAGER HATCHERIES, Brid~e- STOP RUSTY WATER FROM RUINING water, Michigan. Telephones: 313 429- SEND FRIENDS private picture stamps/ WASH, staining fixtures. Proven filter heifers and calves. Egypt Valley Hereford cheaper than postage stamps (only 2t & 3 PATZ SILO UNLOADERC; - 11~er1. 3 Farm, 6611 Knapp St .. Ada. Michigan. 7087 and 313 428-3034. keeps complete water system free of rust, 6t). Free "personal people power" guar- sand, tastes, odors and other impurities. Badger silo unloaders - used. 2 Patz barn Phone OR 6-1090. (Kent County) anteed! Your own glossy. gummed photo- cleaners - used. Ncw Dyna electllc mo- (11-tf-25b) :!O Uses economical, washahle filtcrs. 30 day stamps to put on letters, Christmas cards, trial offer. Free information. Write: tors ... % to 10 h.p. Dealer for Booms SHA VER ST ARCROSS 288 - Started pul- FOR SALE: 14 Purebred Angus cows two etc;. Send us your happy photo (no slides); RUSTRAP, 836-AC W. 79th, Minneapolis, Red lie: 'Vhite Top Silos. Wyngardpn's lets available most every month. Get wise to four years old. Duc to calf in early and try these top profit makers as your Tnal: only $2.001100 "ministamps" %." Minnesota 55420. Equipment, Route #3, Fremont, Michigan x I"; only $5.951100 "photostamp; I" 49414. (1l-lt-30p) 8 May. Also registered Jersey bred heifers next flock. ~lacPherson Hatchery. Route and some heifer calves. Emmet H. Davis, :;3, Ionia, Michigan. Phone 527-0860. x 1 ¥.z". New only from PHOTOSTAMPS BEAUTIFY YOUR GARDEN with plants 9745 12 Mile Road, N.E., Rockford, Mich- D & K R & R COMPANY, BOX 123FB' and trees from "~lichigan's Fastest Grow- Pentwater, Michigan 49449. ' ing Nursery". Strawberry plants, fruit igan 49341. Phone: 866-7110. 14 FOR SALE (12-1t-41p) WATCH REPAIR: ANY MAKE cleaned, ____ (_1_1-_2t-63p) 36 trees, brambles, asparagus crowns. Send rcpaired, parts included. Total price $5.95. for a free list. Fruit Haven Nursery, Kal- FOR SALE: Approximately 6,000 bushels 7-day service. Our 18th year. Elgin MAKE YOUR "WILLI" Four fonns at- eva, Michigan 49645. (6-12t-30b) of good quality dry shelled com. John 26 POULTRY trained experts. Send for free shipping ~orney's informative book ... plus '-Fam- Davis. Sandusky, Michigan 48171. Phone: hox. Hub's Service, 344 N. Alfred, Elgin, Ily Estate Planner." Send $1. WILLS, BOTTLE COLLECTORS: Yount's latest 313-648-2638. (12-1 t-20p) DA Y OLD OR STARTED PULLETS- Illinois 60120. (1l-4t-30p) Box 30188 (MFN), Cincinnati, Ohio 53.95 "Bottle Collectors Guide" lists' The DeKalb profit pullet. Accepted by identifies and prices over 2500 bottles of the smart poultryman for high egg pro- every American category. TEXTBOOKS. duction, superior egg quality, greater feed PUMPS CHICAGO 25HP 3 phas~ motor Box 3862-MN, San Angelo, Texas 76901 COINS FOR SALE - SILVER DOLLAR efficiency. If you keep records, you'll keep 36 MISCELLANEOUS 200 GPM - $200. Deming 500 GPM- (9-tf-24p) UNCIRCULATED BEFORE 1900 - $3. DeKalbs. Write for prices and catalog. $50. Meyers 8 x 8 piston type $100- California Souvenir Gold Dollar $1.50, KLAGER HATCHERIES, Bridgewater, "1001 THINGS FREE" (64-page book) Sl D &: M ,no motor. George 'Vilsher Box WANTED: ALLIS ROUND HAY BALER, Half 75t. Edel's, Carlyle, Illinois 62231. Michigan. Telephones: Saline HAzel - MAILMART, Carrollton, 72, Kentucky 303, IndIan River, Michigan 49749. ' any place, any condition. Alfred Roeder, (12-lt-20p) 9-7087, Manchester GArden 8-3034. 41008. (5-tf-10b, 36 (12-lt-~5p) Seneca, Kansas 66358. (12-lt-20p) MICHIGAN FARM NEWS December 1, 1970 NINETEEN Dates have been set for the John Heim, MACMA Field Representative in North West The Sault Ste. Marie News and Upper Peninsula Fann Journal Michigan Farm Bureau Young FPC Holds Annual Meeting Michigan, has resigned this po- has a friendly greeting each issue, Fanner conferences - January 6 Alvin Marion, Saline, was elec- be paid to patrons as a -patronagp. sition to join the Traverse City heading the editors' column. Be- and 7, 1971 at McGuire's Motor ing a "lake-bordered" paper. the ted to the Farmers Petroleum refund after taxes and reserve al- Branch of Farm Bureau Services. Lodge at Cadillac and a February locations. salutation reads: "A Friendly Cooperative board of directors at John had been working primarily 23, 24' and 25 date at the Valley their annual meeting held in In his operations report, DOTa- Blast; 3 long - 2 short. When a with MACMA's Red Tart Cherry Plaza, Midland. Deadline for the Grand Rapids on November 9, aId R. Annstrong, executive vice sailor meets a sailor - As their and Feeder Pig Divisions. The boats draw nigh - It's three long January meeting reservations is 1970. president, reported that total sales announcement was made by MA- blasts - 2 short toots - Their December 15 and for the Febru- Mr. Marion, a dairy and cash again set a record for Farmers way of saying Hi!" ary 'conference, February 1. 'crop farmer, is secretary of \Vash- Petroleum. Sales to the farm CMA Manager Robert E. Braden. tenaw Farmers Oil Company. market improved 7.5% over last Carl J. Heisler, president of year and net margin. before fed- FPC, stated with pride that for eral income taxes, was $340,016. the sixth consecutive year sales Highlights of Farmers Petro- totals have increased and the co- leum operations for the year in- Time to operative's financial position has clude a 6 % increase in total been strengthened. He added, "I heating oil sold, with "Custom have no doubt that Farmers Pe- Diesel" fuel again leading the troleum can become the most sales increase of liquid fuels by important company selling petro- over 16%. Tire sales were boost- leum. tires, batteries, and acces- ed over 23%. Three new prod- sories in Michigan:' He also noted ucts were added to the up-to-date make $150q~g~.Take that the cooperative's position to- line, two new high-speed bulk day is excellent. It's a foundation plants were added, and important from which we have much to growth was seen in the oil burner gain, especially in future years. service and the "on-the-farm" He also reported $224,415 will tire service. your POIYPhOsPhate FARM LABOR ORGANIZERS HIT CONFERENCE A WeHare League Conference on Migratory Labor proved to be little more than an effort by the Chavez-paid organizers to use the platform for propaganda purposes. fertilizer now .•. A four-man panel at the Detroit meeting consisted of Fidel Garcia, of United Migrants for Opportunity; Joseph Garcia, Mexican-American Specialist of the Diocese of Saginaw; Roy Fuentas, Executive Associate, Office of Economic Opportunity, and one grower - Calvin "Pete" Lutz, Manist..ee County fruit grower, nurseryman and members of the Board of Directors of Michigan Fann Bureau. (and get a pocket watch free of extra cost with your order). Designed to provide information on the changing picture in Take your corn, sugar beet and bean HURRYUP starter ferti- seasonal farm labor work and in the opportunities for migrant lizer now and make yourself some real money. Your order workers, the Chairman was unable to provide an impartial now guarantees you a price that's we II,below the price on atmosphere and little was accomplished except name-calling, March 1, 1971. accusations, and threats to Mr. Lutz. You can't lose. If our price d~ops, we rebate you. If our Later in the day, the Chavez workers sought to use the Wel- price goes up (it rose 22% in 1970), we eat the increase. It'll fare League for their own purposes. Joining the organization pay you well to find some bulk or bag storage room right at noon, they sought to use the annual meeting to place the League on record in support of the present efforts to boycott now. lettuce. Specifically, A & P stores were made a target of the HURRYUP 8-36-10 Corn Starter - With new poly- 1 boycott. However, League President Erwin Simon, attorney ph 0 s p hate and fortified with zinc. Exclusively of Detroit, stood his ground and enforced the rules of the con- . formulated for maximum phosphorus uptake for vention to prevent a stampede action. ~ Michigan growing conditions. Boosts corn yield, During the annual meeting, the name of Michigan WeHare helps plant vigor and speeds maturity. League, with more than 50 years of history behind it, was changed to Michigan League for Human Services. The new President is Robert Forman, of the University of Michigan. HURRYUP 10-22-14 Dry Bean Starter - Has all new 2 polyphosphate, plus manganese and zinc to increase your bean yield more than any Michigan formulation known. Bitter Bottle Battle Brightens Throw-Aways Under Fire 3 H U R R Y U P 7 -28-18 Sugar Beet Starter - Mter a seven-year fight to eliminate the costly and dangerous Formu lated with new polyphosphate, boron throwaway bottle, Farm Bureau members throughout the State and manganese to help insure you a heavier, are winning support. higher quality sugar beet. Count on HURRY- Currently putting up a last-ditch fight, the supporters of the UP quality formu lations for fewer fines and nuisance containers are claiming that even returnable bottles less dust. It's dry and hard, ideal for clog-free are not being returned. In most cases, the return value on these bottles has not been increased in the last 20 years. The return machine application, and stores well. value does not represent the actual value of the bottle, nor dos it have any relationship to the cost of removing the bottle as unwanted litter. Where Your Fann Comes First Farm Bureau policy has urged an increase in the return FaRmi] See your value to recognize changing conditions. The contents of the participating bottle no longer sells for a nickel. '¥by should we expect the FARM BUREAU bottle to be returned for two cents? BUreaU Dealer for A recent editorial in the Detroit Free Press says - "Away pre-season savings on With Throwaways:' We say so tool HURRYUP fertilizer. FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC Double Fast Time Fantasy --------------------------------------------------------------------- Take this guarantee form to a participating dealer. Order your bulk The State Board of Canvassers have made ten separate filings. has certified the petitions circu- A great deal of proof was pre- hurry up or bag HURRYUP fertilizer at his pre-season price. Your dealer will fill-in the guarantee as to quantity and price (and give you a free lated by the Chamber of Com- merce and others during thc past sented to the commission, indicat- ing that the petitions, if properly STARTER pocket watch). year to require the Legislature to either act on the issue or to have canvassed. would fall far short of the required number of valid GUARANTEE Starter bought Name (kind and amount) ~ Price _ * it put on the ballot in November. 1972. This issue is still involved signatures. It was found that many circulators were not regis- in a case before the Supreme tered voters and many signers Address Phone _ were not registered voters. This Court. Town Zip _ The background of this peti- was an exceptionally higher per- tion drive is too fantastic to be- centage than normally expected lieve. Circulators were permitted, in a petition drive. In any event. • *Dealer guarantees this price to be $__ Iower than price on I by court order, to circulate peti- this indicates the importance of ,March1,1971. '~ --~---------~.-~- ••••• A __ a 030 , , tions for close to a year and the issue. TWENTY December 1, 1970 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS ~~~~~~' ~~~~ ,...;.Rlv 8 ;:'ftA INSURANCE GROUP Farm Bureau Mutual • Farm Bureau life • Community Service Insurance • Community Service Acceptance