DCGHIflOA Famrin F^IFi Bureau THE ACTION PUBLICATION OF THE M I C H I G A N FARM VOL. 52 NO. 7 More Than a Symbol For many Americans, there is no more stirring sight than that of the Statue of Liberty silhouetted against the sky--a tall, proud embodiment of freedom's spirit. As another Independence Day, July 4, approaches, she stands as a silent reminder of the freedoms so many have fought and died for. Celebrations, com- memorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, will take several forms--under the vigilant eye of that symbol of freedom-parades, picnics, colorful fireworks and flags festooning millions of offices and homes. However, the most important part will be hidden from her view. That is the quiet determination which every American should carry in his heart to perpetuate the ideals of liberty, justice and freedom which were built so pain- stakingly years ago. Those ideals are the best secret weapon against tyranny and, indeed, are the very basis for the might of the United States. Farm Bureau members are aware of their responsibilities in perpetuating these ideals. According to Michigan Farm Bureau policy, "Good citizenship means more than voting, oratory and displaying patriotic symbols. It includes being informed on issues, willingness to defend and to explain our system of government, and courage to act within our political system..." Farm Bureau conducts many activities to equip persons to meet their citizenship responsibilities. One of these is the Young People's Citizenship Seminar, held at Ferris State College just two weeks ago. Over 200 high school juniors and seniors attended this tenth annual seminar to learn about our American Way of Life, our political and economic systems, and people and governments around the world. County Farm Bureaus, Farm Bureau Insurance ON THE INSIDE: BULLETIN agencies, Farm Bureau co-ops, NIXON'S "CONSUMER FIRST" POLICY puts farmers last, On June 14, the Secretary of Harbor on June 18, Michigan and civic groups throughout says President Elton Smith on Page 2. Labor annouced a decision to Farm Bureau president, Elton the state who sponsored the THE "HOT DOG WAR" » Michigan fights to maintain its suspend the effective date of R. Smith, said: "Whatever the students' attendance are to be high comminuted meat standards. Read about Michigan the original OSHA emergency modification or revision may commended for giving this Farm Bureau's testimony on Page 3. standard establishing re-entry be, Michigan farmers will opportunity to young citizens. OSHA RE-ENTRY STANDARD DELAYED » The original time in fields and orchards oppose the imposition of an Our community, our state, effective date for the "emergency" standard was June 18. where certain pesticides were emergency pesticide standard. our nation, and even the world, The effective date has now been delayed. Check Page 4 for used. This same an- Farm Bureau will continue to will hopefully benefit because details. nouncement said a new press its legal action in op- Farm Bureau members and amended standard would be position to any emergency MICHIGAN CERTIFIED FARM MARKETS REORGANIZES issued. temporary standard if it in- their urban friends cared and becomes a division of MACMA. Read about their plans cludes a field re-entry about the future and the for expanded services on Page 7. At a meeting in Benton provision." (See Page 4.) leaders of tomorrow. PAGE 2 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1973 Be Where the Action Is! President's It has been said that even when opportunity knocks, School financing--always an issue! What about one still has to get up off his seat a nd open the door. vocational training centers and community colleges? How should they be financed? Column Right now, opportunity is knocking at the doors of all Farm Bureau members and I hope they will an- Environment and Land Use--a real challenge--how swer. do we solve this many-faceted problem? How much When something has been around for a long time, control should local governments retain in deter- we tend to take it for granted. This happens in Farm m in ing land use? Bureau with our policy development process, We have There are many other areas of concern--foreign a unique organizational structure that enables all trade, health careuwhere Farm Bureau must have members to let their views be known on local, state policy. Sometimes farmers feel isolated from national and national issues. It gives farmers an opportunity to issues, such as foreign trade, but these problems make their voices heard in the state legislature and in often directly affect their farming operations. the nation's capitol. It offers members a chance to say Although our horizons must be broad, we should what they want their organization to be and what not ignore local issues. County Farm, Bureaus services and programs they need. In short, Farm because of their structure, can be a strong force--~ Bureau provides the opportunity for members to get leader--in tackling and solving local problems. This involved -- to MAKE IT HAPPEN! type of local action can help solve problems and result The policies of your Farm Bureau, which guide your in good public relations for agriculture and Farm organization, are determined by you, the members. Bureau. Last year you told your organization the stand to take Every county Farm Bureau has a Policy Develop- on such issues as tax reform, land use, educational ment Committee. If you have views on any issue-- finance, and marketing and bargaining. Every county whether it be local, state or nationaluvoice your Farm Bureau has a copy of these policies and now is opinion. Be honest--not what you think others want to the time for members to look them over critically to hear, but what you feel is right. Stand up and be see if they should be reaffirmed or cha nged. It is the counted at your county annual meeting when time to look at the future to see what challenges resolutions are discussed, debated and decided upon. _ farmers are likely to face, and establish policy to help Remember, silence means approval and satisfaction' solve these problems. Let's take a look at some of with the way things are now. these challenges .... A member's responsibility doesn't stop with policy Farm labor--how can Michigan farmers protect development. Next comes the vital policy execution. themselves in the event of a unionized farm labor What good is a policy without action? Once a policy movement? This issue has been delayed because of has been established, get behind it and MAKE IT problems in California--but labor leaders say HAPPEN! Michigan is next on the list. Policy development a nd policy execution can be a P.D. The Marketing and Bargaining Board--what action will be needed to strengthen_ the program as the cha Ilenging, exciting experience Satisfaction comes from being a participant, not a for members. Marketing and Bargaining Act gets into operation? spectator. Be where the action is! and Transportation--while Michigan enjoys some of the finest expressways in the nation, the "roads to The future of agriculture, the future of your Farm Bureau, YOUR future, depends upon you and your P.x. market" are inadequate. What about financing these improvements? What stand should we take on the gas tax? willingness to get involved. Opportunity answer the door? is knocking. Won't you get up and from the N-IXOnS , "C OnSUlllerF-" Irst Moil Bog Policy Puts Farmer Last MICHIGAN FARM'NEWS. "Grammer"? Says President Smith, TilE ACTION PUBLICATION OF TIlE Re: The spelling of Michigan Farm Bureau with consumers subsidizing MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU "grammer" in the June issue's president Elton R. Smith ex- food prices through taxes," he "The Mail Bag" -- I'm willing that you should ed it the letters, but who is .... IVI 0,., Sag" pressed disappointment regarding Nixon's order for a freeze on prices, and said that told the news media, He a Iso expressed concern regarding the proposed The MICHIGAN FARM NEWS is JX.Iblishedmonthly, on the first day, by the Michigan Farm Bureau. at its JX.Iblicationoffice at 109 N. Lafayette going to edit your spelling? the President's decision to controls on exports. Street. Greenville, Michigan. place the consumer first, in "Agriculture in the United Dorothy E. Mason Good Platform effect, places the Ame"rican States has competed ef- Editorial am general offices at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, Lapeer County Michigan 48904. Post Office Box 960. farmer last. fectively on the world trade Telephone. Lansing 485-8121.Extension 228. Sull;cription price. 50t per year. (-Editor's Note: Com- Dear Editors: In a statement to the public scene. We cannot treat foreign EstaJ>lished January 13, 1923.Second news media following Nixon's markets as a dumping ground - Class Postage paid at Greenville. munication experts say that Congratulations on your new Michigan. every publication . should baby. All indications are that it economic action ~n- - supply must be constant. It EDlTOIUAL: Editors: Kenneth P. Wiles and Donna Wilber contain a bit of humor. Since will thrive and grow healthy. I nouncement, Smith said Vlat seems inconsistent that, with OFFICEHS: Michigan Farm Bureau: even our June cartoon had its hope all your members realize, fa rmers a re not second -claSS our high standard of living, President. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia. R- I: Vice President. Dean Pridgeon. serious side, this was our however, what an important citizens, to be offered a consumers are willing to be I\lontgomcry. R-l: Administrative feeble attempt to instill a role they must play in the care government farm program to outbid by foreign markets. Director. Robert Braden. Lansing. DIRECTORS: District 1, Arthur chuckle. and nurturing of this baby. maintain their existence. Food and fiber have been too Bailey, Schoolcraft; District 2, Dean He called the absence of a plentiful, too long, and too Pridgeon. Montgomery, R-l; District 3, If you don't buy that ex- It is obviously their - Andrew Jackson. Howell, R-l; District 4, planation, try this one publication. The value they get price freeze on raw inexpensive for Americans." Elton R. Smith. Caledonia, R-l; District 5, David Morris. Grard Ledge, R-3: ..... There is an army of out of it will depend on what agricultural products a fallacy. uFarmers believe you can't District 6; Jack Laurie, Cass City. R-3; gremlins whose single goal is they put into it. Very little raw food is pur- have it both ways," Smith said, District 7. Kenneth Bull. Bailey, R-l; District 8. Larry DeVuyst. Ithaca. R-4;" to make life miserable for I can think of no better way chased by consumers, he said. "either you have a free District 9. Donald Nugent, Frankfort. R- Retailers and processors are economy or a controlled 1; District 10. Richard Wieland, editors and publishers. They for them to serve themselves Ellsworth, R-l; District 11. Franklin get their kicks out of changing than by using the IIMail Bag" faced, on the one hand, with socialistic economy. We do not Schwiderson. Dafter. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter a's to e's, stealing letters for column regularly to express rising labor costs and taxes, . believe in a system of Fratun. Frankenmuth; James L. Sayre. their alphabet soup, and other their views, share them with and on the other hand, the government administered Belleville; David Diehl, Dansville. WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. similar antics. their neighbors and other prices they charge are frozen. controls of food and Richard Wielard, Ellsworth. R-l. On the other hand, it could Farm Bureau members, and Experience has shown, Smith agricultural prices. FARM BUREAU YOUNG FA~ MERS: William H. Spike, Owosso. have happened because the stay up-to-date on the said, that they will attempt to IIRising prices are the result POSTMASTER: In using form 3579. distaff side of the editorial thoughts and issues which are recoup this by paying lower of inflation and the cause of mail to: Michigan Farm News, 7373 staff is a vain creature who important to their peers. prices to farmers. inflation is excessive govern- West Saginaw Highway. Lansing, Michigan 48904 questions the optometrist's I'm certain thatugiven such "Food must be paid for -- ment spending. The prescription for bifocals. a fine platform for airing their either by consumers at the President's action treats the Second class postage paid at Under oath, however, we'd views as the new Michigan reta illevel -- or by consumers symptoms u not the cause -- of Greenville. Michigan have to admit--we goofed! And, Farm News--they will make the through taxes. Between the inflation. What farmers and in a way, we're glad we did. most of the opportunity. Farm Bill recently passed by consumers really need is From the number of comments Best of luck for the future. the Senate, and the action taken by the President, we are responsible irresponsible controls government on FaRmr1 received regarding this error, we've concluded it was widely Jim Sterling Director of Press Relations moving toward a continuation spend ing u not controls on BUreaU read.) Ohio Farm Bureau Federation of the 'cheap food' policy -- retail prices," he concluded. - • I ~ULY'1, 1973 PAGE 3 Dr. Guyer Named Extension Director Dr. Gordon E. Guyer, professor and chairman of the Depa rtment of Entomology at Michigan State University si nce 1962. ha s been na med director of M.S.U. Cooperative Extension Service, effective July 1. He succeeds George S. Mcintyre who retired on that date. In recommending the ap- pointment, Dean L. L. Boger of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources pointed out that Dr. Guyer is committed to" Michigan State University and the educational philosophy of the Cooperative Extension Service. "He is a proven ad- ministrator with the capacity to provide the leadership DR. GORDON GUYER THE FAMOUS BOARDWALK at Atlantic City, New Jersey, required for the service at this was "rolled up" and stored away for the winter in the 1800's. particular stage in its history," entomology in 1953. He AFBF Although it may not look exactly like this in January when Farm Boger said. recently returned fourth tour of Africa under from his Bureau members attend the AFBF national convention, it will As director of the be there, along with many other interesting sights. A tour to the Cooperative Extension Ser- United Nations' sponsorship TOUR American Farm Bureau Federation convention, scheduled for vice, Dr. Guyer will also serve to develop education and January 13-17, 1974--plus two days and nights in New York as assistant dean of the research in plant protection in eight countries. PLANNED City--is currently in the planning stage~. More details will be announced in the next issue of the Farm News. College of Agriculture Natural Resources. He will be and Known for his in- responsible for the staff of terdisciplinary approach to the campus specialists and field scientific study of insects, Dr. N. E. Region has New Representative agents with Michigan counties. offices in 80 Guyer received Distinguished the MSU Faculty Award Robert Lee of Spruce, Dr. Guyer was born in in 1965. He played a leading Alpena County, is the new Kalamazoo in 1926 and role in establishing the Michigan- Farm Bureau received his B.S., M.S. and Ph.- Pesticide Research Center on regional representative for the D. degrees from Michigan the East Lansing campus and Northeast region, according to State University. He began his served as its director since its Cha rles Burkett. director of MSU career as an instructor in establishment in 1964. the Field Operations Division. Lee replaces LeRoy Brady, MFB PRESIDENT TESTIFIES who resigned to go into private business. FOR MICHIGAN MEAT LAW A 1967 graduate of Michigan President Elton R. Smith appeared before the subcommittee State University, with a degree on Agriculture Research and General Legislation of the Senate in Agri-Business, Lee has been Committee on Agriculture and Forestry in Washington, D.C. on employed with the Central June 14. In his testimony, he voiced Michigan Farm Bureau's Soya Company, selling strong support of S. 991, which would allow states to determine livestock feed in northern whether their meat inspection, labeling, ingredient and other Illinois. He participated in requirements may be more stringent than minimum Federal sports in high school and requirements. college, was active in 4-H, and In his statement, President Smith said: "The maintenance of has worked with his local FFA strong, independent and responsible state and local govern- Chapter. Lee is married and ment is vital to the preservation of self-government and in- has two young daughters. dividual freedom. Destruction of responsible states' rights As regional representative, through coercion by units of higher government and the Courts he will serve the counties of warrants corrective action. Alcona, Alpena, Cheboygan, to his employment with Emmet, losco, Montmorency, Michigan Farm Bureau, he had "The issue we are concerned "We do not quarrel with Ogemaw, Otsego and Presque served in various capacities with is whether my state, federal measures when there Isle. for the county Farm Bureau, Michigan, will be permitted to is a n a bsolut e need to Brady has been regiona I including county president. continue its high ingredient establish minimum standards representative for the North- His reta il business is located standards for comminuted to protect the public," Smith .east region since 1966. Prior in Onaway. meats. Since 1952, Michigan's said, "but federal action Comminuted Meat Law has should not force a state with permitted the use of only standards higher than the skeleta I meat in comminuted required federal minimums to meat products such as hot downgrade those standards to dogs and Grade 1 sausage. the detriment of its residents." During the 21 years this law Smith said that many federal has been in force, Michigan laws have been passed or consumers have developed a proposed to establish strong confidence in the high minimum requirements for quality comminuted meats state programs, but do not sold in the state." deny states the right to have LEE BRADY Smith pointed out that higher req ui rements. He Michigan Farm Bureau's pointed to minimum wage and livestock producer members no-fault insurance laws as. support the Comminuted Meat examples. Law even though it may not afford the maximum market within the state for by- "We do not agree with the products from the livestock Court doctrine that the they market. He told the sub- enactment of federal committee that producer legislation pre-empts the field. members believe the image Pre-emption of superior state and public confidence the laws will only serve as a Michigan Comminuted Meat barrier against the enactment Law provides for the industry of sound and responsible laws more t ha n offsets the desired by those closest to the prohibited use of by-products. problem," he concluded. PAGE 4 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS - JULY 1, 1973 ------OSHA Re-Entry RuleDelayed------ such an order. Agricultural is an inference in the an- M.J. Buschlen, operations producers were not advised in nouncement that the order will manager of the Michigan advance, consulted, allowed to be re-established at some Agricultural Services comment, or' present their future date and that during Association (MASA) urges views before t he emergency this peroid of delay, agricultural producers to take standard was issued. On agricultural producers will be advantage of this periOd and behalf of all agricultural permitted to comment con- state their case because the producers, Michigan Farm cerning any field re-entry new order may become per- Bureau took the lead and standard. manent. entered the thick of the battle to help obtain relief from this threatening problem, both ad- On June 18,30 grower leaders met in Benton Harbor for a ministratively through OSHA, "strategy meeting" in anticipation of the new amended OSHA by appealing to congressmen standard which the Secretary of labor has announced will be for their assistance and legally issued. The meeting was called by the Berrien and Van Buren through the American Farm County Farm Bureaus. Burea u Federat ion in the Following the session, President Elton R. Smith issued a courts .. statement that Michigan farmers will oppose the imposition of Through the AFBF,a petition an emergency pesticide standard and that Farm Bureau will was filed requesting OSHA to continue -to press its legal action in opposition to any issue a stay of the effective emergency temporary standard if it includes a field re-entry date of the order. When no provision. response was given by OSHA, Smith said that the advisory committee to the U.S. Depart- M.J. Buschlen. MASA ooerations mana~er. ~ets the latest scoop on the status of the OSHA re-entry standard, which has the AFBF filed a petition for ment of Labor, consisting of knowledgeable producers, farm review in the United States workers, and competent scientists, after extensive in- first ordered to go into effect June 18. Court of Appeals. vestigation. concluded that no evidence existed to support the Space does not permit the issuance of an emergency standard. Contrary to this expert inclusion of the full details of advice. the Secretary of labor issued the emergency standard. Agricultural producers, chards where certain in- the standard. However, "It is evident that growers have been concerned and will part icui a r Iy f r uita nd secticides and pesticides were penalties for noncompliance continue to show concern for the health and safety of their vegeta ble growers, were used. The original effective can be as high as a $10,000 employees. without the imposition of costly, unnecessary alarmed when the United date for the standards was fine. standards which have only the effect of reducing the efficiency States Department of Labor June 18. As of this writing, an an- of agricultural production. An emergency standard is un- issued an emergency standard Agricultural producers did nouncement has been made necessary.It will impose undue hardship on growers and their esta bl ish ing re-entry for not believe that there was that the effective date' of the employees and food prices will be increased, without employees in fields and or- substantial justification for order had been delayed. There justification," Smith said. Speakers' Bureau Teams Tell "Bread and Milk" Story to Urban Groups Throughout the State Several of the Farm Bureau Women's Speakers' Bureau teams are "on the road" telling their story of agriculture to non-farm groups. Such a team is Mary (Mrs. Robert) Hiscock of Battle Creek, and her partner, Sue (Mrs. Paul) Wing of Bellevue. Their presen- tation, "Bread and Milk," has been well received by several urban groups, including the Bellevue Lions Club, where they appeared on June 5. Approximately 40 business and professionaI men took an avid interest in the visual-aids and the facts and figures regarding food production. An exercise wh ich involved various food items, such as cereal, apples and a cut of steak, brought out enlightening information on Sue Wing and Mary Hiscock, Farm Bureau Women's the local' retail cost, the Speakers' Bureau team, make an attractive pair as they national average retail cost -- present their "Bread and Milk" story to urban groups. and the price the farmer gets for these products. Using actual samples for this demonstration, the team then awarded the products to Calhoun County Farm Bureau, operate a 355-acre dairy and Committee and serves as secretary of her community I FARM FACTS I whichever audience par- crop farm. Mary is chairman of group. A r:egistered nurse, she Farm Efficiency Climbs ticipant had them in their the Calhoun County Farm is aIsoactive in her church and An hour of farm labor to- hands at a certain point. Bureau membership com- 4-H, and serves as a Red Cross day produces seven times as Su~ and Mary are enjoying mittee and vice chairman of volunteer and Campfire youth much food and other crops as it did 50 years ago. This en- their public spea ki ng a p- the Farm Bureau Women. She counselor. The Wings have < ..•. ables the average farmer to pearances and the opportu nity is also active in her Farm four young children. ~[i;V>x produce enough food and fi- of sharing their story with Bureau community group and Sue and Mary are one of ..... :::. ber for himself and 51 others. A top farmer can produce urban people. Both busy farm is involved in many church eight teams in various parts of enough for 200 others. wives, they believe that telling activities. The Hiscocks have Michigan who have been .. this story is vital to the two chiIdren. designated "Spokesmen for w~ < • • • j!JJ~~ Inflation Hits Farm maintenance of good rural- Sue and her husband, Paul, Agriculture." The goal of the ur ban re lat ions, especia Ily operate a 400-acre dairy farm Farm Bureau Women's Sue Wing passes out items Inflation has increased ag- with current public concern and also raise beef cattle. Paul speakers' bureau is to gain a from the market basket as part ricultural production costs l?y 33 Vol per cent in the past SIX regarding food prices. is president of the Barry better understanding by urban of the "Bread and Milk" years, estimates a University Mary and her husband, County Farm Bureau, and Sue people of food production and presentation at the Bellevue of Minnesota economist. Robert, who is president of the is active in the Young Farmer food prices. Lions Club meeting. ••• - JULY 1, 1973 ~ICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 5 State's First Oil Co-op Opens New Facilities Branch County Oi' Company Has Wide Range of Services regional representative and When the Branch County Farm Bureau Oil Company held served in various capacities open house at their new modern facilities recently, members for Michigan Farm Bureau, who had been around for a while indulged in a few lIremember Farm Bureau Services and when's"--memories which took them back to the early 1930's. Farmers Petroleum As they toured the impressive, multi-service operation with its Cooperative. Clarence is proud attractive offices and its 125,000 gallon underground storage of the many services the co-op tanks for liquid fuel, they decided their lIbaby" had come a long offers to farmers and members way. of Branch County, and of' his It was back in 1931 that a group of Branch County Farm employees who help make this Bureau members pooled their resources--$3900 and a lot of possible. muscle and sweat--to get the state's first oil co-op into Two of his drivers, Bob operation. Work bees and picnic dinners made it a real AcMoody and Dale Rubley, will cooperative effort. Warren Dobson was the first manager. In exceed one-million gallons of 1938, the co-op became a branch of Farm Bureau Services. Earl liquid fuel for their third year. Proud manager Clarence King (right) and district sales Huntley was the manager then, and later he became the Bob has also been the top manager Bill Armstrong decide these are better than lithe good general manager of Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, Inc., motor oil salesman in the state old days" when the oil co-op first began its operation. which was organized in 1949 .. for several years, with Dale The Branch County Oil Co- being runner-up on several Kerosene was the big seller op outgrew its facilities in occasions. The third driver is back in those early days of the Batavia and purchased a 40- Richa rd Swift. co-op. It was used in kitchen acre site with frontage on U.S. Serviceman for the co-op's stoves, lamps and lanterns, 12 in December, 1971. Con- furnace installation and fuel oil heaters, the engine in the struction of the new facilities burner service is Jim Buehrer. "well house," and quite a few started in September of 1972 Handling the complete lion the tractors. Two 600-gallon tank- and opened for business on farm" tire service is John wagon trucks serviced the March 13,1973. The 120 by 40 Pelmear; and Lois Green, who local farmers then. One of the foot structure, in eye-catching has been with the company for drivers was Bert Rasey, father Farm Bureau colors, contains six years, handles the office of Claude Rasey who is now a 1600 square feet of service functions. district sales manager for area, a 1200 square foot office With the opening of the new Farmers Petroleum and display area, plus a 3200 station, Roger Smith, an ex- Cooperative. The other driver square foot warehouse. perienced mechanic and was Bill Armstrong, who later The manager of these service man, was hired as became manager of the modern new facilities is manager. Branch County Oil Company, Clarence King, who has been Members of the board of and is now an FPC district with the Branch County Oil directors for the Branch sales manager. Bill, who Company since 1964. No County Oil Company are: started out dispensing his straflger to the organization, Merle Donbrock, president; fuels with a five-gallon tin Clarenc"e began his Farm Maurice Arendt, vice- measuring bucket and a Bureau career as a capable president; Marvin Wade, funnel, had the first measuring young president of the secreta ry; Gordon Albright, Service is the key word here and the new facilities help meters in Michigan installed Washtenaw County Farm Donald Luxenburger, Marshall provide local farmers with a wide variety of services. on his truck. Bureau. In 1955 he became a Fair, and Alton Wattles .. Farmers Come First for Limited Fuel Supply Clarence King, manager of This action is part of the all- He suggests that farmers, the generating power," Butz fuel situation improves from out effort by Farmers who have traditionally bought said .. the present peak-use period. the Branch County' Oil Company, always thought that Petroleum to supply farmers their farm fuels off the tank- "Every American has a vital --Work the field the long way the proverbial silver lining was with the necessary fuel to wagons and used this gasoline stake in helping farmers ob- of the field when possible, to supposed to be behind the produce agricultural products. for their cars, can ease the tain the fuel they need to cut down on the number of dark cloud. Now, he's won- The company has also halted current situation by filling produce food for our tables; turns that result in inefficient dering if the inclement their sales to long-time non- these needs at local service feed grains and oilseeds that use of fuel. weather reversed the process. agricultural accounts, even stations. "Every little bit are essential for production of The USDA urges farmers to His silver lining -- the opening though they had been large- helps," said Wasson, who is more beef, pork and chicken; report any fuel shortages to of the new facilities in Cold- volume customers for many spending much of his time and cotton for our textile loca I ASCS offices. Si nce water. The dark cloud -- an years. these days answering phone mills," he said. "Farmers, for February, the United States announcement from Farmers According to Arlo Wasson, calls from concerned co-op their part, have an obligation Department of Agriculture has Petroleum Cooperative, that, vice president of the FPC managers throughout the not to take undue advantage of been monitoring the farm fuel in order to divert every Marketing Division, things may state, seeking assurance that a situation where others are supply situation through its possible gallon of fuel to get worse before they get they will be able to meet the tightening their belts a nd more tha n 2,800 ASCS county agriculture, he would either better. July and August are the need of their farmer- making adjustments in order offices. Any shortages are have to close his station to the peak season for agriculture customers. that agriculture will not be reported immediately through public or receive only a per- and for public travel. Secretary of Agriculture Earl without adequate fuel sup- state ASCS offices to Agriculture's fuel needs' will Butz, at a meeting on fuel and plies." Washington. A regular farm centage of his allotted fuel. The pictLlre isn't all dark for continue, but after Labor Day, transportation in Des Moines, He encouraged farmers to fuel situation report is Clarence, however -- he'll be less public consumption may Iowa, on May 31, explained adopt these fuel-conserving prepared for Secretary of able to continue most of his ease the situation, Wasson why agriculture is the number practices in their normal Agriculture Butz every week. said. one customer of the petroleum farming operations: Any problems that arise are services, such as on-the-farm He also predicts fuel prices industry. --Reduce tillage practices; forwarded immediately to the tire repair, furnace installation will go even higher. The "One of the major reasons don't plow if not necessary; Office of Oil and Gas, U.S. and fuel oil burner service, and availabiiity of foreign crude oil American agriculture is so couple mach ines together Department of the Interior, for hopefully, fill the fuel needs of and gas won't be much of a competitively productive is where possible to make one solution under the voluntary his farmer-customers to plant factor in Michigan, Wasson mechanization. Huge diesel trip over the field do the work allocation program. and harvest their crops. The Branch County Oil explains. "Michigan is at the tractors, gasoline-fueled of several, such as disk-plant- The voluntary allocation lend of the pipeline' and combines, grain dryers apply herbicide all in one system, set by the U.S. Company is not the only oil co- getting crude to refineries operating on natural gas, operation; don't cultivate government, has placed top op to feel the effects of the fuel here or the finished product irrigation systems and farm unnecessarily. priority on agriculture. Far- crisis. All locally-owned and from the coasts is not trucks powered by liquid --Keep tractor and equip- mers Petroleum Cooperative controlled co-ops throughout economically feasible," he said. petroleum gas are just a few ment properly tuned for has always placed farmers the state were given the same Regardless of what the future examples. Farmers also use maximum fuel efficiency. first. It will continue to do so, choice, and all Farmers brings in regard to the fuel about 2-1/2 percent of the --Postpone operations such and diverting every possible Petroleum Cooperative situation, Wasson believes the nation's total electricity as ditch clearing and land gallon of fuel to agriculture is stations were closed to the days of cheap energy" are output, much of which leveling when possible, even just one example of their ef- public as of Thursday evening, II over. depend s on petroleum fuel as for just a few weeks, until the forts to accomplish this goal. June 14. PAGE 6 MICHIGt.\N FARM NEWS JULY 1,1973 National Legislative Notes by Albert A. Almy The recent announcement of wage rate reaches $2.20 in suppo~t level to 80% parity, administrative and executive 1976 it would mean that the dairy Import quota, extension decisions at the national level farm' and general minimum of ~Iass I Base plan authority, deal with subjects which have wage would be the same. The dairy and beekeepers in- received considerable at- present Michigan farm demnities, expansion of the tention by Farm Bureau during minimum wage is $1.60 per Food Stamp Program, in- the last month. The ad- hour. ternational grains agreement Robert E. Smith ministrative decision comes An important substitute bill conference, aRE A P program from the Department of Labor for H.R. 7935 was narrowly limited to permanent-type to delay its implementation of defeated by a vote of 199-218. practices and a requirement standards governing the time Supported by Farm Bureau, that OSHA hold public Special Environmental when farm employees may re- this substitute would have hea rings prior to im- enter orchards treated with increased the farm minimum plementing any pesticide Study Committees certain pesticides. Farm wage to $1.80 per hour the third year after enactment. It regulations. It would also limit payments to $20,000 per farm Bureau efforts were a major Early in the session, three concern with respect to water factor in bringing about this would also have provided a terminate the Wheat Cer~ special House resolutions resources which is "reflected decision. lower minimum wage for tificate Program and require were introduced continuing in substantial increases in The executive decision was workers under 18 years of age the Secretary of Agriculture to special House of Represen- present and anticipated announced by President Nixon to provide them with em- provide Congress with an tatives environmental com- federal, state and local on June 13 and places price ployment opportunities. annual report of the status of mittees originally created a programs," and to study ceiling on all processed food H.R. 7935 is now before the family farms. In addition to year or so ago. methods of conserving, products. While the price Senate Labor Committee those listed, there are many H. R. 11 creates a special developing and protecting ceilings do not apply directly to awaiting consid.eration. other provisions which in- committee on air pollution, water resources "for the most raw agricultural products, they FARMPROGRAM dicate S. 1888 is a very diverse composed of five members to effective and equitable use do represent indirect controls. The proposed Agriculture bill. be appointed by the Speaker among all segments of the Michigan Farm Bureau and Consumer Protection Act Farm Bureau does not to function during the period economy and the citizens of President Elton Smith wrote of 1973 (S. 1888) has passed sup port the ta rget price between sessionsfor the study the state ... " President Nixon before the the Senate. This bill would concept, international com- of the problems and control of In each case, these issues ceilings were imposed urging replace the ,current modity agreements, and the air pollution. could affect agriculture. Each him to resist price controls as Agriculture Act of 1970, which inclusion of programs not H. R. 13 creates another committee is expected to a means to control inflation. expires at the end of this year. already in the Agricultural Act special five-member com- report its findings and Similar letters were also sent S. 1888 would establish a of 1970. S. 1888 represents mittee to study the problems recommendations to the to all Michigan Congressmen. five-year program and require little progress in moving of noise "in all forms." Legislature for whatever Both t he President and USDA to establish target agriculture nearer to the open H. R. 14 creates a five- action they might feel is members of our CongressionaI prices for wheat, feed grains market. member committee to study necessary. delegation were urged to and cotton each year starting The House Agriculture - . attack the real cause of in- with 1974. For 1974, it is Committee is now studying the Meat Standards Resolution flation, which is deficit federal estimated that the target price Senate bill and is expected to spending. would be $2.28 per bushel for report a bill soon. There will S.C.R. 128, introduced by It states further that the intent Further details on the re- wheat and $1.53 per bushel undoubtedly be some changes Senators Davis and Pittenger, of the Federal Wholesome entry standards and price for corn. After 1974, the target made to S. 1888 by the House has passed the Senate and is Meat act is lito up-grade ceilings may be found in prices would be adjusted to Agriculture Committee, but it now before the House. It requirements for those states separate articles in this issue reflect farm costs. is expected to be similar to the relates to the recent Supreme having little or no standards of MICHIGAN FARM NEWS. Upon completion of harvest, Senate version. Court decision refusing to hear . .. not to downgrade states the target price would be MEAT STANDARDS the case as appealed from the like Michigan that have hfgher MINIMUM WAGE compared with the open The recent refusal by the Court of Appeals wh ich ingredient standards ... " BILL market price during the first ,U.S.Supreme Court to hear an strikes down Michigan's The House passed on June 6 five months of the marketing earlier Court of Appeals ruling comminuted meat law. 'The resolution commends a minimum wage bill (HR. year for the crop. If the market which would force Michigan to The Senate resolution states Michigan packers for high- 7935) which increases both price exceeded the target lower its high comminuted that they believe lithe high quality meats and urges the general and farm wage price the government would meat standards has now court over-stepped its citizens to read the list of rates. The bill passed by a vote pay .no income supplement to focused the issue on Congress. aut hority in its decision ingredients. It also supports of 287-130. farmers. However, if the target Michigan's Comminuted Meat striking down Michigan's 29- bills in Congress (H.R. 1752 or H.R. 7935 would increase price exceeded the market Law prohibits the use of year old comminuted meat law S.B. 991) which would amend the Federal minimum wage for price the government would animal by-products in most " .. " It said further that the the Federal Wholesome Meat agriculture to $1.60 per hour pay farmers 'an income sup- comminuted meats. However, decision "takes away the right Act to permit Michigan to the first year after enactment, plement to make up the dif- ,Federal law permits the use of of sta tes to have bette r maintain its strict ingredient $1.80 the second year, $2.00 ference. by-products and the Courts standards, thus striking out at sta ndard for hot dogs, the third year, and $2.20 per The ,bill also provides for an have decided the Federal law the heart of states' rights ... " sausagesand luncheon meats. hour on July 1,1976. When the increase in the milk price pre-empts our State law. Legislation to amend the FederaI Meat Act and give Marketing and Bargaining Board Activity States the right to have higher ingredient, packaging, labeling Since the pasage of S. 1225 Milliken in early April and must Also required will be Other jobs for the Board will and other requirements has (P.A. 344) last year, there has be confirmed by the Senate. guidelines for establishing the include the establishment of been i ntrod uced. Senator been a great deal of activity in (Names, pictures and marketing period and for offices, which will temporarily Griffin (R - Traverse City) has the effort to implement the background information can determining who is eligible to be in the Lewis Cass Building introduced S. 991 and legislation. Implementation of be found in the June issue of be appointed to an association (Lansing); hiring of the Congressman William Ford such legislation can be very the MICHIGAN FARM NEWS.) marketing and bargaining personnel necessary at this (0 - Taylor), along with 15 time-consuming, creating a committee. Filing fees must time to carry out the work of other Michigan Congressmen, tremendous amount of work in Up to this time the Board a Iso be esta bl ished for the Board; also, securing the has introduced H.R. 1752. the development of has had at least three processing accreditation necessary full year's financing On June 14, the Senate procedures, administrative meetings and has drafted and requests from grower groups. through appropration by the Subcommittee on Agriculture rules, etc. re-drafted proposed rules Other guidelines must be Legislature. The $148,000 Research and General There has also been dealing with such questions as established for fees charged approp riat ion measure has Legislation held a public legislative activity on this the minimum quota of by an association to producers passed the House but has yet hearing on S. 991. MFB issue. Early in the session it production of an agricultural included in a bargaining unit to be acted upon in the Senate. President Elton Smith ap- was necessary to pass a commodity that will determine and still others determining peared before the Sub- Senate resolution to permit who is considered a producer the kind of annual report that It is not Iikely that the tota I committee in support of the the Department of Agriculture for the purpose of this Act. accredited associations must amount will be needed' bill. He strongly defended to transfer certain funds in make to the Agricultural however, in determining th~ States' rights to have higher order to have money to begin The Board also has the job of Marketing and Bargaining budget. it is necessary to standards than minimum the implementation work. This defining "perishable fruits and Board. recognize that the Board standards required by Federal resolution, introduced by vegetables." In one draft of the might have to rent office space law. He argued that Federal Senator Zollar, passed both proposed rules, 42 fruits and After these and other rules and that it is not known how action forcing States such. as Houses very quickly. vegetables have been listed are agreed upon by the Board much personnel might be Michigan to downgrade hl~h The selection of the five- that could be produced in a public hearing will be held to needed. Such appropriations meat standards is an in- member Agricultural commercial quantities in permit any interested persons always include restrictions fringement of States' rights. Marketing and Bargaining Michigan. This number could to testify on the rules and permitting the Board to use The House Agriculture Board required a great deal of be increased or decreased guidelines, either in support of, only the amount of the ap- Committee has scheduled time. The Board was finally before the rules are com- opposition to or in an effort to propriation actually needed for hearings on H.R. 1752 on July a ppoi nted by Governor pleted. amend. operationa I costs. 10. JULY 1,1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS P~GE 7 At a meeting in Lansing June He and his wife and their three 4, Michigan Certified Farm children will be moving to Markets members reorganized Lansing in the near future. their association and acquired Offices of the Mich iga n their first full-time manager, Certified Farm Markets, a James E. Lincoln of Drayton division of Michigan Plains. Agricultura I Cooperative Marketing Association, will be located at Farm Bureau Center in Lansing. A 10- member operations. committee is exploring ways to improve and expand the organization and its services. Members of this committee are: Don Hill of Montrose, chairman; Pete Wiard" of Ypsilanti, vice-chairman; Paul Friday, Coloma; J. W. Erwin, South Lyon; Mrs. Calvin (Lorraine) Lutz, Kaleva; Keith Moore, Grant; Jack Mowat, Adrian; Henry Nelson, Ionia; James Sayre, Belleville, and James Shelton, Niles. JAMES LINCOLN ~e~vices av~~lable to Members of the Michigan Certified Farm Markets operations committee are (seated, left to Michigan Certlfle~. Farm right): Paul Friday, Coloma; James Sayre, Belleville; Don Hill, Montrose, chairman; Henry Market~ .members will Incl~de Nelson, Ionia; (standing) Pete Wiard, Ypsilanti, vice-chairman; Lorraine Lutz, Kaleva; J. W. Lincoln, who has been with an officIal e~blem. of hIgh Erwin, South Lyon; Jim Shelton, Niles; Keith Moore, Grant Not present when photo was taken: Cooperative Extension Service standards to Id~ntlfy MCFM Jack Mowat, Adrian. since 1955, was born and markets, promotion and ad- ra ised on a farm nea r vertising, cooperat ive pur- Greenville. He received his chasing of supplies, and B.S. and M.S. degrees in procurement of produce and Three More Michigan Men Horticulture from Michigan other items to supplement the State University. From 1955 to members' own products. Also 1962, he served as a 4-H agent offered will be market em- in Genesee County, and in ployee job training, Appointed to Cherry Board 1963 was named horticulture management courses, With the recent addition of Traverse City and alternate L. Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin; agent in the same county. assistance in design and layout th ree new Michigan cherry E. Walton, Traverse City; Robert Hutchinson, Benton Since 1965 he has been the of markets, and in accounting industry representatives and Joseph R. Roth, Detroit, and Harbor and alternate Hugh Eastern Michigan horticulture and records. Regula r their alternates to the U.S. alternate W.J. Wilson, Bengtsson, St. Joseph. agent for Cooperative Ex- newsletters will keep memo" Department of Agriculture's tension Service. Lincoln has bers up to date on weights and Cherry Administrative Board, Congressmen Brown, Vander Jagt also operated a "pick-your- measures, employment laws, the state now has a mem- own" fruit farm on a part-time zoning, taxes, and legislation bership of eight on the 12-man Introduce Marketing Bills basis for the past four years. which affe"ctstheir operations. board. Five of Michigan's eight representatives are Michigan Farm Bureau members. The new members and their alternates are: Donald Nugent, Frankfort, a director on the Michigan Farm Bureau board, and alternate Norman Veliquette of Kewadin; ....,\n~J6\lnen\ ot~~(~n\\\~l Rodney Bull, Bailey, and ""6 % \07 Yz 70 debentuCC6 aIternate James Dittmer, Ludington; Vivian E. Dorman, Hart, and alternate Howard McDonald, Shelby. These members' and .. · laecc6t on \0\ .$100.00 OR MORE alternates' terms will be ef- 6% - 5 Year Maturity fective through April 30, 1976. 6Y.l% -10 Year Maturity During their term of office, all 7%- 15 Year Maturity cherry board members in- $1,000.00 OR MORE vestigate cherry supply and 6~% -10 Year Maturity demand conditions so they GARRY BROWN GUY VANDER JAGT .$5,000.00 OR MORE may recommend to the 711.2%-15 Year Maturity Secretary of Agriculture the Congressman Garry Brown (R-Schoolcraft) has sponsored total quantity of cherries H.R. 1798, the National Agricultural Marketing and Bargaining which may be marketed during Act. The bill would provide standards for the qualification of each season. producer associations and define the mutual obligation of The board, which is made up handlers and producer associations to negotiate in good faith of six representing producers regarding agricultural products. and six representing handlers Congressman Brown was elected to Congress in 1966 and and their alternates, also deals has served continuously since that time. He serves on the This is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation to buy these with other matters involved in House Banking and Currency Committee and the House securities. The offering is made only by the prospectus. the administration of the Government Operations Committee. I ------------------------------- Clip and mail this coupon to: Federal marketing order for ta rt cherries grown Congressman Guy Vander Jagt (R-Luther) has introduced in H.R. 6535, which would amend the Agricultural Fair Practices FaRm~ w.-eltu"Fwmeom-Rrwt I MR. C. A. MORRILL Michigan, New . York, Act. H.R. 6535 would require that handlers of agricultural I Farm Bureau Services, Inc. BUreaU Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Ohio, products bargain in good faith with producer associations for P. O. Box 960 Virginia, West Virginia and agricultural products produced under contract. I Lansing, MiChigan 48904 I FARM BUREAU 8SMCE8.1NC I would like a copy of the prospectus and a call by a registered I sales agent. Maryland. Congressman Vander Jagt has served as a member of Other Michigan producers Congress continuously since 1966. He serves on the House and handlers now on the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the House Committee on I N A ME . Cherry Administrative Board Government Operations. I ROAD R FD # . are: P.C. Morrison, Williams- Other Michigan Congressmen who have introduced or are ,burg, and alternate Dale E. sponsoring national marketing and bargaining legislation in- I C ITV COU NTY .. Sequist, Sister Bay,Wisconsin; clude Gerald Ford (R-Grand Rapids), Elford Cederberg (R- \, PHON E / / Paul S. Wicks. Dowagiac, and Midland), Marvin Esch (R-Ann Arbor) and Phil Ruppe (R- ,-----------------------~ aIternate Stephen Schafer, Houghton). All of the marketing bills have been referred to the Bangor; John McCool, House Agriculture Committee. , MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1,1973 PAGE 8 Telling the Story of Agriculture . • • • • • Genesee Talking "Cow" Helps Hosts Urbanites Sanilac F.B. Women The Genesee County Farm Bureau Women sponsored a rural-urban meeting on May Promote 24 with 125 people enjoying an all-Michigan dinner. At- tractively-decorated tables, with each promoting a dif- ferent Michigan product, Farm Products greeted the guests. Beef, navy bea ns, grapes, apples, cherries, peaches and other commodities were awarded to two guests at each ta ble who were fortunate to select the Iucky seats. The Michigan Week activity was "time well spent", according to the Sanilac Women,whoare considering a similar activity for "Have you had your milk yet today?" the cow asks this fall. "The expressions on the children's faces when the cow curious youngster at the Sanilac Women's product promotion, asked, 'Have you had your milk today?' was worth a million," held at a Flint shopping mall during Michigan Week. Faye concluded. Donald Hill served as Master of Ceremonies and introduced Sehoul Children Tcu~ Wexford Farms the special guests at the Genesee Rural-Urban dinner. By Lennie Luther big 'rope in the barn into the hay mow. Master of ceremonies for the The smell of grass silage, the The next stop was the home of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Benson. event was Donald Hill, who touch of a new-born calf, the Mrs. Benson is District 9 aIso introduced special guests, feel of power in a huge tractor, Women's chairman and Bob is including Senator Gordon and the sight of life on a farm a member of the Board of Rockwell, Representative were a few of the many ex- Directors for Wexford County Loren Armbruster, and periences realized by nearly Farm Bureau. A comfort stall Representative and Mrs. F. 40 students of the McKinley School sixth grades in Cadillac type milking operation was Robert Edwards. recently as they toured nearby explained and each of the farms. child~en were actually able to Speakers' Bureau team, puII the udder of a cow to see Sandra Hill and Linda Jen- The tour was sponsored by first-hand where that good nings, created much interest the Wexford County Farm milk comes from. among the urban guests with Bureau Women's Committee City school children were thrilled with a visit to the their presentation of "Bread for their annual rural-urban AMdemBonstration twahsgiVtehn"maternity ward" at the Kohler farm, where they saw a new- and Milk,". the story of food activity. The day began with a by rs. en.sonas 0 ow e born calf and baby kittens. production and food prices. movie entitled, "Food from cows are milked and how the . M.J. Busch len, operations Farm to You," after which Mrs. automatic clean ing system d~nated by McDonald Dairy of demonstrated the use.rs Fann Bureau Services may .be haVe particlpaled in thiS rose 30% in the first part of the only major feed .supp~ler P"ogr3m. ha\'e given Farm Bu- June and was nearly four which is holding its .prlce . line. reau S{"I'/Ct>S a trem('ndous purchasong power in Ihe> mar- times higher than it was a year Several others have dIscontinUed ket plac~ and Ihe c the advance booking plan.; acllOn i th ooperallve ago. The index of feed-grain Slortened the coverage perl . FARM BUREAU SERVICES, INC s liS able to aChie"e ~OSI Cont,vls for palrons which prices including corn also Under the Farm BureaU 314 a th~rl\'.s<, wvuld be difficult 10 jumped 20% and was nearly chle"e a~ an i 1divldual. double that of a year ago. The price of wheat in Kansas City PAGE 12 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JUL V 1, 1973 St. Joe County Site of Annual Farm Tour his roadside market or by pick- and Bethel Schmidt's. Free "A Family Approach to yeur-own. He markets about 10,000 galions of cider from mid-September through stall housing, cold enclosed housing, and a bunker silo are part of the 676 acre Schmidt Ha1I0ween at his own cider operation. Visitors are invited The morning dairy stop is mill. The Hubbard farm also to tour the Schmidt's nicely Quality Living" Gleason Meadows operated by Henry Gleason and son,Jim. Their herd of 150 farm boasts a packing area, 9,000 bushel cold storage and well equipped farm shop. remodeled house. Bethel is St. Joseph County's extension home economicst. cows averages a little over Also on the morning agenda Visitors will have the op- be visited in the afternoon, 16,000 pounds of milk, 632 is Mr. and Mrs. Mike Havens' Also on the p.m. tour is portunity to view several of with interviews at 2: 45. pounds of fat. A double-six horse training and showing Maurice (Bud) Marantette's Michigan's most efficient Luncheon is slated for 11: 30 herringbone milking parlor operation. The young couple combination cash grain farm farms during the 25th annual at the fairgrounds in Cen- with automatic fly booth to developed a 4-H project into a and seed and corn brokerage. Michigan State Farm treville. The speaker is James spray cows at each milking full-time career. They house Bud and Roger Gentry raise Management tour July 26 in E. Forster, DeKalb, Illinois should interest visitors. The and train 12 to 20 horses at a 240 acres of corn, irrigating St. Joseph County. bank president who is past Gleasons also sell breeding time and travel more than with two gun~type systems. The tour includes a luncheon vice president of DeKalb Ag stock for export. Visitors may 30,000 miles each year to They also raise demonstration speaker who will illuminate Research, Inc. and a prominent tour the farm home. about 65 shows. Note also the plots of various corn varieties. this year's tour theme: "A community leader. Grain farmers should ap- Havens' lovely, old brick home. Bud handles Michigan Cer- Family Approach to Quality Morning .stops include: preciate Colombia (Sout h Wakeshma Farms, an 875 tified Seed (serving on the Living--In the Home, On the Elwood and Ben Russell Farm, America) born Emo Barney's acre swine operation owned by Board of Directors) and Trojan Farm and In the Community." Inc., a family farm corporation. one-man- cash grain farm. Barry Mumby and his retired Seed corn. Visitors can view Nine farms will be featured - Elwood and his son Ben, plus Barney's yield aim is 200 father, Robert, is one of the the outside of the stately 131 - two dairy, two cash crop, two two full and two part time men, bushels of corn per acre. afternoon stops. Through year old centennial farmhouse. swine farms, a fruit farm, a feed out 3,000 pigs a year. In Irrigating with one center Telplan management planning Paul Kline's Maple Shade rural resort and a horse addition to traditional round pivot and two gun -type and evaluation, Barry has set Farm and Resort rounds out training operation. Most farm bin and silo storage, they built irrigation systems, he has an annual output goal of 1,920 the afternoon tour. Thirteen hosts are Farm Bureau a versatile 50,000 bushel steel already won awards for high hogs. He reached an output of family members help manage members. building for grain storage in yields. more than 800 hogs in 1972. the farm, camping and mobile Five farms are scheduled for 1972. Their crop raising At another morning stop, Recently constructed or home sites. They provide a morning viewing, with farm program boasts four pivotal most of R. Dayton Hubbard's remodeled buildings and a community building, laundry, family interviews at 10:30 at irrigation systems on the 1,400 415 acres of fruits and lovely home highlight the bathrooms, storm basement each site. The remainder will acre operation . vegetables are sold through afternoon da.irystop at Eugene and recreation area. ,...: U) c:c u.I .... :> u; . c a: ~ ~ :I: ;:) • . BANI8Y RD. U) E. MICHIGAN AVE . ...: KING RD. U) PLEASANT RD. a: u.I ci a: .... :> u; z c:c o ::z:: ::..: (.) ;:) llCI G) NOTTAWA TOUR STOPS AND POINTS OF INTEREST There will be a family interview at each farm. You are AFTERNOON TOUR STOPS welcome to visit any farm at any time during the day. Farm Family Interviews 2:45 p.m. at each farm. FORENOON TOUR STOPS G BARRY MUMBY - Swine Farm Family Interviews o EUGENE SCHMIDT - Dairy o 10:30 a.m. at each farm. o MAURICE MARANTETTE - Cash Crops o ELWOOD AND BEN RUSSEll- HENRY GLEASON & SON - Dairy Swine o PAU( KLINE - Recreation ...: U) .. EMO BARNEY - Cash Crops o o o DAYTON HUBBARD - Fruit OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST N < :I: ::3 o MIKE HAVENS - Horses 4D Langley Covered Bridge < ::..: U.s. 12 o Noon Lunch and Program - 11:30 to 1:30 49 Glen Oaks Community College Fairgrounds at Centreville CD Old Stone School (Open 2-4 p. m ) JULY 1, 1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 1~ f. B. Employees "Oriented" Wheat Marketing Voting delegates, at the 1972 annual meeting of. in 1973 Michigan Farm Bureau, passed a resolution encouraging the By Dan Hall organization to hold employee Manager orientation sessions on a Market Development Division regular basis to create an understanding of the ob- Wheat harvest is upon us on-the-farm storage facilities jectives and philosophies of again in Michigan, with the for their wheat crop. They hold the "Farm Bureau Family." producer facing his usual their wheat hoping to out- decision of how best to market guess the market as towhen to "The employed represen- his wheat. Judging from what sell for the best price. Of tatives of the Michigan Farm happened to the wheat market course, storage and interest Bureau and all of its affiliated last year and what experts costs a re involved here, as is com pa n ies re prese nt Fa rm .;.;;; ..; think will happen this year, the risk of losing the grain due Burea u in general when those producers who store to moisture, rodents or other contacting members around their wheat in '73 may be "way malady. the state and the public at on top." In fact, in each of the large. Uninformed or misin- la st five yea rs, prices Starting in 1967, and each formed employees or agents producers received at ha rvest year since then, Michigan may contribute to a poor or time were less than they would wheat producers have had a weak image of Farm Bureau, have received had they stored new a Iternative for marketing either in arswers given to their wheat for later sale. their wheat--the Farm Bureau questions or statements made LA Cheney, secretary-manager of the Michigan Association of Some wheat producers are Wheat Marketing program. In to other people when the of Farmer Cooperatives, tells the employees about MAFC. equipped with the necessary this program, all the producer information involves com- does is: (1) Deliver wheat at panies other than their own," ha rvest to a local cooperative they said. elevator that is participating On the basis of this MARKET REPORT with the Michigan Elevator Exchange in the Farm Bureau resolution, another "All in the Marketing program; (2) Tell Farm Bureau Family" em- (Continued from Page 11) the elevator employee that the ployee orientation r:neeting was held at Farm Bureau February. American cheese has been keynote in all areas. wheat is to be in the program; Center on June 13. The largest production was 30% below At this writing, the full effects (3) Sign a wheat program group of employees par- March a year ago, and April of the new price freeze are not agreement and a delivery milk cows on farms were down known. Farm Bureau Services settlement form prepared by ticipating since the project the elevator; (4) Receive a began was given "mini- 30% below March a year ago, has been doing record- courses" on all companies of ~. ~2\LH~ and April milk cows on farms breaking business with far- check for t he a dva nce "'~; .... ~~ were down 2% from a year mers. During the spring payment after delivery; (5) the Farm Bureau Family. Receive a check for the fina I Eighty-four employees were ~~",~~)l:t earlier according to the season fertilizers were in ,~~~ ... R~ Michigan Crop Reporting critical supply, but Farm marketing year. payment at the end of the welcomed to the meeting by President Elton R. Smith, who ,.~. ~ Service. Bureau Services customers told them that Farm Bureau Fruits and Vegetables generally had the fertilizer By marketing his wheat wants their employees to be At the beginning of June the they Ileeded. Intermittent through the Farm Bureau involved, knowledgeable and asparagus harvest was at a rainy weather slowed down program, the producer has aware of the important part some of the rush. With the several things "going for him." slow pace because of the cold, rainy weather, calls for her- they play in the effectiveness wet weather and was over one First, he doesn't have to worry of the organization. Bill Spike, half harvested in the south- bicides remained strong a bout "out -guessi ng" the chairman of the state Young west. Onions and early celery through June with a bumper ma rket. Rat her, he ha s Farmer Committee, spOke to were generally growing well in crop of weed~. Farmers who professional grain mer- the group on behalf of the the west-central area. The' booke~ feed ~Ith Farm Bureau chandisers who are in the l Michigan Farm Bureau board planting of onions was finished are stIli takmg adva~tage of market every day selling the of directors, and stressed the in Jackson County, but lettuce wh~t tur~s ou! to be Im.mense program wheat in an orderly importance of being well- planting was proceeding savmgs 10 pnces. Again, ~he fashion. Second, storage informed employees .. Bill Spike, chairman of the slowly because of cold tr~mendous value of bookmg worries are eliminated while One new employee summed state Young Farmer Com- weather. Early cabbage and With . Farm Bureau the cost of storage and in- up the day this way: "I felt this mittee, spoke to the Farm tomatoes were developing well cooperatively has been terest a re held to a minimum. was time well spent, and now I Bureau employees on behalf of in Monroe County. Planting of proved. Th~ p~essure for Third, bargaining for price is the 'Michigan Farm Bureau other vegetables was slowed lum.ber supplies IS .somewh~t improved because a large have a broader knowledge of board of directors. or ha Ited by wet fields. The set easmg, but many Items stIli volume of wheat is marketed Farm Bureau." of tart cherries and other run short rather suddenly a~d by a single market agency-- GERMANS VISIT MICHIGAN fruits was highly erratic should be o~de.red well ~n Michigan Elevator Exchange. because of frost damage in the advance. BUIldIngs are m poor locations and unfavorable st~o~g demand, an~ all Last year, the program" weather for pollination in some bUlldl~g crews are workmg ~o conducted its most successful areas, according to the c~paclty fr0'!l t.he Company s marketing year. For 1972 crop Michigan Crop Reporting fifteen bulldmg cent~rs. wheat, the advance payment Service. Shorta.ges, a~parent h~rdlng, was mostly $1.10 per bushel and hIgh pnces continue to and the final payment was Supplies plague the farm supply 77.5C per bushel. The total net Huge demand for supplies situation. return per bushel of par- ticipating members was substantially above harvest time market prices. Also, many producers who stored their wheat sold when the price increased the normal 30 to 40 cents after harvest. Program cooperators, on the average, received 50 cents per bushel over harvest time prices. No one can foretell what the wheat market will do this coming year. However, the Farm Bureau Wheat Marketing program has German businessmen visited Michigan as guests of Rotary established an enviable record International recently, for the purpose of studying American during these past six years. It life. Here they learn about agriculture and Michigan Farm may well be that you could Bureau from Robert Braden (center, seated), MFB ad- ministrative director. The group's host for the day was Larry R. increase your wheat income Ewing (right, standing), director of the Information and Public during this coming marketing Relations Division. The Germans also visited the Grand Ledge year by participating in the beef farm of David Morris, MFB director. wheat program. ~AGE14 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS JULY 1, 1973 All important civilizations were founded on the cultivation and use of one or another of the cereal grains. The early civilizations of Babylonia, Egypt, GRAIN HANDLING Greece; and Rome were based on the growing of wheat, barley and the millets. The ancient cultures of India, China and Japan were based on the rice crop. The Inca, Maya and Aztec civilizations in the New World depended on their crops of corn. Cultivation of cereal grains began so long ago that their earliest history cannQt be pinpointed exactly. However. thev have been man's most important food plants since the dawn of history. The grains serve as food not only for man but fo.r animals. Their un- paralleled importance as food and feed, as well as industrial use, imports great economic value to the cereaI gra in crops. Climate determines where each of the cereal grains can be grown. The major grain produced in Michigan is corn. Despite the adverse harvesting season,the State Department of Agriculture reports a 1972 field corn harvest of 142.9 million bushels. A husky twenty percent jump from 1971 which placed Michigan tenth among the states in field corn production. While Michigan can't compete with the huge grain fields of the West, practically all the soft white winter wheat in the United States is raised in our state. Michigan ranks 18th among the states in the production of all varieties of wheat, with 535,000 acres producing 21,400,000 bushels in 1972. Rising production costs, boycotts, shortages, price ceilings, transportation difficulties, weather, pests, Lakes, but the fact remains there aren't sufficient and the ups-and-downs of the market all have a bearing, to some degree, on how grain is disposed of railcars to meet the demand. Discussion The Wall Street Journa I recently reported that by producers. Among the concerns of farmers producing wheat and corn as well as other grains in railroads ordered 14,006 new freight cars in April and as of May 1, the order backlog for new cars was Topic Michigan, and about which there is much confusion, 36,527. Regardless of what the contributing factors no complete explanations and certainly no easy to the railcar shortages may be, the 'result of the solutions, is how to realize the most return on the money invested in the crops. devastating problem is that there are likely to be 'changes in the grain marketing pattern in future by KEN WILES How to dispose of the grain for the most profitalbe years. Manager Member Relations price is a question grain producers have had to cope Possible changes which have been discussed in with for years. There are, as was previously men- some grain producing areas and reported by the exports are shipped via the Seaway because the tioned, numerous considerations which, directly or Farmland News are: Saginaw River is not deep enough for ocean-going indirectly, influence a producer's decision of how (a) Refusal of elevators to accept grain from vessels. and when to market his grain to realize the best farmers unless the producer is willing to absorb It was for these reasons that the delegates to price. This article will only briefly discuss some of the possible losses should the elevator be unable to Michigan Farm Bureau's last annual meeting passed alternatives. move the grain in a reasonable time. a resolution which says that the Saginaw River (b) Morestringentcontracts with both grower and should be used to its fullest and that Farm Bureau Wheat Marketing buyer. This would probably include a "boxcar "supports deepening of the waterway to ac- Some wheat producers are equipped with the available" clause which would free the elevator of commodate ocean-going ships." necessary on-the-farm storage facilities for their having to pay a penalty for failure to meet contract With the growing international demand for grain, wheat crop. They have the capability of drying it deadlines if the problem is lack of boxcars. the importance of the Saginaw terminal to Michigan should the mositure content be too high at. harvest (c) More use of unit, or split-unit trains for farmers is immense. The 1972 shipment mark was time and they hold their grain hoping to out-guess shipping grain. Using this method, smaller elevators 34 percent greater than in 1971 and 67 percent the market and sell for the best price. There is also could pool shipments providing they had a uniform over 1970. With a new record in sight for this year, the possibility with on-the-farm storage of damage quality of grain going to a common distination. the cost advantages of waterway transportation C,'re by rodents which can"make the grain unsaJeablefor Last harvest season,farmers in many areas of the a direct benefit to Michigan farmers. human consumption. country were not able to deliver grain to their local Fuel Situation Growers who elect to sell at harvest time forfeit elevators because the elevators were full. The The outlook for farm supplies of gasoline and the opportunity to take advantage of any increase in elevators had the grain sold, but couldn't get it to diesel fuels is tied to the national situation faced by price during the marketing year. Yet, many growers terminals or ports because of a lack of railcars. the petroleum industry. needto convert their wheat crop to immediate cash. Exporters have grain sold, but have had difficulty While Farmers Petroleum Cooperative anticipates Storing wheat for later sale provides maximum meeting shipping commitments due to lack of cars. no crisis in supplying its farm patron needs this year, returns if growers can determine in advance the Unhappy as many people may be with the trans- there is growing talk of possible gasoline shortages best time to sell. A wrong guess could mean a loss portation situation, it is realized that the conditions this summer. Even rationing is predicted in some instead of a gain. have been caused by what might be termed an areas. Several of the larger oil companies, have put Since 1967, Michigan Farm Bureau members have aImost emergency situation. Relatively speaking, gas station operators on notice to expect cutbacks in had the opportunity to market their wheat through railroads are doing an exceptional job. There are still deliveries. If this develops, it is likely to come during Farm Bureau Wheat Marketing Program many inefficiencies in car utilization, but it must be the summer months. Members have the option of consigning all or part recognized that railroads have problems, too, in Whether or not shortages actually dry up some of their wheat crop to the program when their wheat union contracts and many other areas which tend to station pumps, gasoline prices seem certain to head crosses the scales at the local participating make maximum efficiency difficult. up. However, farmers should be aware that due to cooperative elevator. Participating prod ucers the increasing fuel shortage, the Administration has receive an advance payment shortly after delivery The "Fourth Coast" used its authority to establish a voluntary fuel and a final payment at the close of the marketing Michigan farmers shouldn't refute the value of the allocation program. year. S1. Lawerence Seaway for it is a direct route to Under the allocation program, each refiner, Marketing of the program wheat is done by the foreign markets. Opening the Great Lakes in April marketer, jobber and distributor will agree to make Michigan Elevator Exchange Division of Farm resulted in an improved utilization of boxcars as the available to its customers, the same percentage of Bureau Services, Inc. The Michigan Farm Bureau shorter distance reduced turn around time. its total supply of crude oil and products which it Wheat Advisory Committee, composed of twelve The Saginaw River, where Michigan's only two provided during the fourth-quarter of 1971 and the wheat producers advises on the marketing of the riverfront grain elevators are located, is not as deep first three-quarters of 1972. wheat. (Wheat producers interested in additional as the rest of the St. Lawrence Seaway and other In distributing the fuel supplies under the details of the program should contact their local gra in ports of call. Larger ships, those that sit deeper allocation program, priorities have been established cooperative elevator or county Farm Bureau in the water, are not able to load a full cargo of grain to supply certain activities. The highest priority has secretary.) and remain sailable. been assigned tofarming, dairy and fishing activities Boxcar Shortages The result is that more and more shippers, and services directly related to the cultivation, There is a story which relates that Gordius, King of especially direct exporters, do not call at the Port of production, and preservation of food. Phrygia, tied a knot which was incapable of being Saginaw. It's a matter of economics -- a two-thirds untied by anyone except the future ruler of Asia. The load just isn't as feasible as a full cargo. The entire Summary knot stayed that way until cut by Alexander the state loses -- in sales and exchanges and in tax Grain producers, like other farmers, face problems Great. dollars which end up in out-of-state ports. galore in the growing and harvesting season ahead. The nation's rail network has been similarly tied in The shift toward direct overseas grain shipment This article has onIy briefly touched on a few of the a very tight knot and there are no indications that it as opposed to grain transfer from smaller lake dilemnas which might throw the average can be untied or cut in the near future. vessels, has h ~ightened the problem on the Saginaw businessman. It is fortunate that farmers have a The shortage of freight cars has eased a bit with River. So, wt ile Michigan is a major shipper of special hardiness to heip them overcome recurring. the opening of the shipping season on the Great agricultural produce, less than ten percent of our adversity. " JULY 1. 1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 15. Topic Summary Medicare for All 65 and Over PeopIe over age 65 who Complementary Blue Cross County Farm Bureau were previously ineligible for and Blue Shield coverage will secretary. II The. Discus~ion Topic for May dealt with the subject of Medicare benefits can now be available to those enrolling For additional information Public R.elatlonsfor Agriculture" and offered members an in this Medicare program. To on the Medicare coverage, enroll during a special opportunity to expr~ss their views regarding the subject. As obtain this coverage, members contact the Social Security enrollment period which will cou~dbe expected with such a broad subject, the suggestions should contact their loca I Administration office. continue until August 31, vaned on what should be done to increase non-farmer's 1973. The effective date of the awareness of agriculture's role. From the hundreds of responses received, only a few have been selected to in- coverage will be the first day of Discussion Topic Report Sheet' the second month after the dicate the general trend of the replies. month of enrollment. The Discussion Topic and Report Sheet for the discussion topic on the opposite page is furnished for use of community 1. Please indicate what you think the current public image of group members who may wish to review it prior to their The above persons wishing group meeting. If used by a Community Group, in lieu of the farmer is? Good: 36% Bad: 64% to enroll during this special report sheet furnished the Discussion Leader, please for- 2. List local projects or events of public interest which have enrollment must enroll in both ward answers with minutes to Information and Public involved farmers in your area? Meat boycott; Farm City Part A (HospitaJ) and Part B Relations Division, Michigan Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 960, Week; tours with school children; rural-urban dinners' ( MedicaI) of Medicareo The Lansing, Michigan 48904 on or before August 1, 1973. service organizations; promoting farm products in loca'l cost will be $33.00 per month stores. for Part A and $6.30 per month for Part B. These rates will COMMUNITY FARM BUREAU remain stable until at least Discussion Exercise and Report Sheet 3. Have the projects or events listed above been helpful in July I, 1974. July, 1973 producing a positive farm image? 97% of the groups replying thought they had. Community Farm Bureau County 4. What fillancial support should Farm Bureau members To enroll, the applicant must give to a program to create a favorable public attitude contact a Social Security Please indicate the number of people taking part in this toward agriculture? Reasonablesupport; none; anything Administration office. Second, discussion possible; raise Farm Bureau dues to promote farm they must be a resident of the image; use part of present dues; can we buy a favorable United States and either a U.S. image? citizen or an alien lawfully TOPIC: GRAIN HANDLING 5. How much use should farmers make of newspapers, radio admitted for permanent and TV to acquaint the public with facts about residence who has continually 1. Agriculture in the United States has competed effectively on the world trade scene. President Nixon has called on agriculture? As much as they can; seems news media is resided in the country Congress to grant him new and flexible authority to im- doing better recently. How often should they be used? throughout the immediately pose export controls, particularly on food products whose Often, daily, weekly; as much as possible. What sort of preceding five years. Proof of ,age is also required. prices might be pushed upward by foreign demand in this stories and facts should be emphasized? Human interest year of poor growing conditions in much of the world. Do stories; cost of production; dependence on weather; try some sex appeal -- the consumer's need of our products. you favor such action? Yes No Subsequent enrollment 2. Does your group favor import restrictions on (check those 6. Radio programs supplied by Farm Bureau are aired periods will be held January 1 you favor): approximately 400 times a week. How many of your through March 31 of each year Wheat? Feed Grains? Fruits? group's members hear them regularly? 33% of those beginning in 1975 for coverage replying stated they didn't hear. or recognize the to be effective July 1. Milk Products? Meat Products? programs. 67% indicated they ha.d listened to the 3. It is important that agriculture obtain an adequate supply programs on one or more stations. Surprisingly, more of fuel to produce necessary food and fibre for our nation. groups reported they heard the programs on WJR, Have the farmers in your community group experienced Detroit, than on any other station. Daisies (an't Tell difficulty in obtaining the needed farm Growing plants don't know fuel? Yes No 7. COMMENTS: Farmer's image better than it was; sur- the difference between ferti- 4. The Michigan Farm Bureau Discussion Topic Committee prised to know so many program by Farm Bureau; lizer elements derived from chemical fertilizers and those will be meeting in August to select discussion topics for farmers should send farm magazines to urban friends. from organic substances. the coming six months. If your group has not already submitted their recommendations, list below the topics + And the American Medical your group would like to have considered as future Association says there is no basis for claims that organi- discussion topics. cally grown foods are nutri- tionally superior to those OFFICE CALLS " grown by modern agricul- tural methods. Dr. Ruth Leverton of the QUESTION: Now that eighteen year olds are considered U.S. Department of Agricul- adults, will my Blue Cross and Blue Shield coverage no ture goes further in debunk- ing such claims. She warns 5. Comments: longer cover them at that age? that foods produced with or- ANSWER: Blue Cross and Blue Shield will continue to cover ganic fertilizers can be the dependent children until the end of the calendar year in source of salmonella and oth~ er microorganisms that con- which they attain the age of nineteen. taminate food. 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 ac:lver- tisers: 15 cents per word one edition, two or more editions, 10 cents per word. Copy deadline: 20th of the month. Mail classified ads to: Michigan Farm News, P. O. Box 960, L 8 n sin g, MI 48904. Publisher reserves right to reject any advertising copy submitted. FARM EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK POULTRY MISCELLANEOUS NORTHLAND EQUIPMENT - Dealer for FOR SALE: 25 Hol Vac Heifers due Base Mon.• New Idea. Gehl. New Holland. Jamesway. 15 Hol open Heifers breeding age. 25 Hol Vac Kewanee. Killbros. and Bush-Hog equipment. 400lb. Ed W.Tanis. Jenison. Michigan. Phooe: Madison Silos. On M-72 West. Traverse City. M09-9226. (7-3t-25b) Michigan Phooe (GI6) 946-9437,JJ. J. Witkop. owner. (3-7t-3Op) FOH SALE - POULTRY EQUIPMENT. STUFF ENVELOPES. Average $25.00 hun- I"'RI.Jo:Y ROCK PICKERS. Picks 1 to 16" Kitson Feedliner Feeder: Kitson Pit Cleaner - dred. Immediate earnings. 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