FaRm., Bureau VOL. 52 r\lo. 8 MAKE IT HAPPEN AUGLJ Export ,Issue Pits Farmer vs Faro 1 Export restrictions -- an offspring of price controls -- is a subject which cuts across the traditional close bond of farmers and could well place many in separate camps. The restrictions on the export of livestock feeds are meant to eliminate competition from overseas buyers, bringing lower prices to grain growers and lower costs to American Iivestock men. Michigan Farm Burea~ President Elton R. Smith, a dairyman, didn't mince words on the touchy issue when export restrictions on soybeans, cottonseed and by- products were announced in late June. Calling them "an outright attempt to reduce farm production costs at the expense of other farmers," he asked farmers not to let their vision be clouded by ad- vantages that will only be temporary. Farmers should be wary of jumping on a bandwagon that offers temporary reward, but shows opposition to free trade. The next commodity could be their own. It's necessary for policy- makers to view the whole picture and farmers should consider if shortlived ad- vantages are worth the jeopardy involved in such a policy. What are the various pieces uf this whole picture of export restrictions? The action of damage the confidence of a necessary atmosphere for a Dr. Max E. Brunk of Cornell guide production. This IS a certain market principles foreign buyers in America as a healthy, thriving American University in an address to policy that will benefit all would eventually raise feed source, plus increase the agriculture. Joseph Halow, livestock businessmen, said, farmers in the long run. pnces one more. Low prices foreIgn trade deficit. vice president of Great Plains "Certainly, any sIgnificant would discourage the In any case, the support of Wheat, Inc., said, the world limitation on exports not only .Index II ••• cultivation of crops and low export controls can be con- must encourage production of will be a domestic economic supplies would bring higher sidered support of price those commodities in coun- tragedy, but also will con- prices. Or possibly, after low controls since the latter im- tries which have the com- stitute a most serious political Classified ads 15 prices were achieved, exports paired the price mechanism parat ive advantages in mistake in our international Discussion Topic 14 would be re-opened, bringing that acts to allocate resources. production to those com- relations. " Legislative notes 4, 5 renewed demand. In one The Michigan Farm Bureau modities. This can-bedone only Whqt Elton Smith and Marketing 7 export restriction, government president is not the only one by removing trade restrictions, Michigan Farm Bureau are Policy 13 can depress prices of a who believes that free trade is to permit the producing asking for is a return to normal President's Column 2 commodity, reduce com- countries to find dependabl~ food production patterns Women 10 SEE RELATED STORIES pet ition for the prod uct, Page 9 markets for their productiorl.. wher.e ecrmomics, not politics, World 9 No-Fault: Phase LV Land Use and Property Charlie Foster explains what it Effects on commodities Rights: A conservat ionist will mean to you this October. Page6 states his case Page5 Page 12 PAGE 2 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS AUGUST 1, 1973 F r e e z e and Thaw L e a v e s Us Cold We must applaud the loosening of government controls that But, Government policy is still based on political expediency. come with the Phase IV announcements. In viewing the overall It is effective policy to stem the flow of government funds, but picture, however, we must accept the continual freezing and not popular. It is effective to raise taxes but unpopular. It is thawing of government controls with the same enthusiasm with popular, however, to clamp a lid on prices or keep food supplies which we greet the annual freezing and thawing that wrecks trapped in the country. We, therefore, end up with policies that our highways. are good for politicians, not for the country. Under Phase IV, the farmer is still left in a precarious position While we spend billions in defense, we forget to defend our in which the invisible hand of economic principles is replaced place in the world market. Under Phase IV we hold back ex- by a heavy hand of government. This hand has been guilty of ports that could improve the worth of the dollar and buy im- economic conditions with complete lack of patience. The portant fuel sources. It is ironic that buyers in the wealthiest continual changing direction by the government shows that it is nation in the world must be protected from buyers in foreign reacting to its own mistakes with its patchwork policies. countries through governmental export controls. Agricultural producers have proven that they react to Economists have repeatedly blamed present inflation upon economic conditions more emphatically than most other politicians of the past who spent billions in federal funds, yet segments of industry. Yet, producers are not allowed to react refused to make politically unpopular decisions, such as raising freely. Instead, their minds are clouded by new unpredictable taxes, to counteract the economic burden placed on the government policies that leave them uncertain of the economic country. consequences of production. Another politically unpopular action should have been taken Political leaders have admitted that controls are not good for by both Congress and the Federal Reserve system to establish agriculture or the economy. It is time that Congress and the sound monetary and fiscal policies. Congress must discipline Administration act the way they know they should. We suggest itself to curb its irresponsible spending which include "give- that the next phases be to phase out government control. Then away programs and something-for-nothing philosophy." The they should cut government spending and/or raise taxes and Federal Reserve system has let too much new money be take the political consequences. We must allow economic created. This allows more dollars to compete for the same principles to put us back in balance, rather than be guided by amount of goods which fuels inflation, too. political expediency. Farm N e w s Survey to be Released underlines: "What do Farm Bureau members want in their Michigan Farm News? That's Bureau Information and Public Relations Division. At the same time he announced that a by TERRY CANUP what we'd like to know for sample survey would be taken sure." That statement was next month among members made by Larry R. Ewing, to gather information. director of the Michigan Farm Survey forms will be sent to 4,000 members selected at random by computer. This MICHIGAN survey form will be short, simple and will be sent with a Whammied by the System pre-addressed return en- velope for the convenience of the member. I can only surmise that the States lined up at these ser- through all these wing ding THE ACTION PUBLICATION brand names and ended up OF THE present food situation is im- vice windows saying "Patty MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU If you get a Survey sheet, possible. I could barely Melt Piggy please." feeling like ding dong. please help by giving your manage to buy lunch the other So you stand with a queue of But you were really scared opinion and returning the day. All I wanted was a big people behind you and the when you didn't wince at The MICHIGAN FARM NEWS is published monthly, on the first day, by form. hamburger or a ham and attendant is looking at you. . . ordering a Yumbo or Whopper. the Michigan Farm Bureau, at its When you didn't stop to think publication office at 109 N. Lafayette cheese on a bun. But it's not waiting for you to say "Patty Street, Greenville, Michigan. that simple. Melt Piggy" and you wish that that Madison Avenue had Editorial and general offices at 7373 Just try it. Go into one of advertising man was standing pulled you into the baby talk West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. Michigan 48904. Post Office Box 960. Farm News these fast food establishments there, hungry, in front of 20 game with everything but a Telephone. Lansing 485-8121, Extension 228. Subscription price, 50t per year. and ask for a ham and cheese people, with an irritated drooly sucker stick hanging on a bun. Most likely, the at- hamburger helper staring at out of your mouth. Established January 13. 1923. Second Class Postage paid at Greenville, Editor on Duty Michigan. tendant will point her thumb him waiting for him to order That's why you're so EDITORIAL: Editors. Terry W. Canup and Donna Wilber to the sign behind her and say, that. . . .that thing. determined not to give in now ul | K EKS: Michigan Farm Bureau: The appointment of Terry W. "We only serve what's listed." Then it starts to happen. You with the line growing behind President. Elton R. Smith, Caledonia. R I: Vice President. IX'an Pridgeon. Canup, 23, as editor and Now you look up there, and experience a "deja vu." That's you and the attendant looking Montgomery. H I ; Administrative business manager of the Director. Kobert Braden. I^ansing. you know, because you've seen one of those funny feelings like daggers into your eyes. DIRECTORS: District 1, Arthur Michigan Farm News, effective people eating them, that they you've been in exactly the "Uhhh," you stammer and Bailey, Schoolcraft. District 2, Dean July 1, was announced by Pridgeon. Montgomery, R-l; District 3, have ham and cheese sand- same place, doing exactly the the girl's eyes widen, "That pig Andrew Jackson, Howell, R-l; District 4, Larry R. Ewing, director of the wiches. But they don't call same thing before. You think thing." Elton R. Smith. Caledonia. R-l; District Information and Public 5. David Morris, Grand Ledge, R-3; them ham and cheese sand- maybe you've been standing District 6; Jack Laurie. Cass City, R-3; Relations Division. wiches. They've got a name there in that hamburger joint " S i r ? ! " she practically District 7. Kenneth Bull. Bailey. R-l; District8. Larry DeVuyst, Ithaca. R-4; like "Patty Melt Piggy" or with everybody waiting for you screams at you. District 9, Donald Nugent. Frankfort, R- A recent graduate of 1; District 10, Richard Wieland. "Whammy Hammy." to deliver the punch line. "Ya know, that pig. . .uh. Ellsworth. R-l; District 11. Franklin Michigan State University, It's one of these names that "Give me a Patty Melt Piggy piggy pat. .errr " Schwiderson, Dafter. with a bachelor's degree in DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter some advertising man in New please," with that advertising You give up, "PATTY MELT Frahm. Frankenmuth; James L. Sayre, journalism, Canup also at- York thought up for kids to man already laughing in his PIGGY!" you catch yourself Belleville: David Diehl. Dansville. tended the University of WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. remember so they could tip office. yelling and everybody looks Richard Wieland. Ellsworth. R-l. Western Australia and their plate of roast beef and The situation probably stunned as if you slapped the FARM BUREAU YOUNG FAR- MERS: William H. Spike, Owosso. Macquarie University in peas on the floor and screech, reminds you of the time you girl across the face. Australia. After transferring to POSTMASTER. In using form 3579. Michigan State University in "I want a Whammy Hammy!" went to the gas Station and mail to: Michigan Farm News. 7373 That's bad enough, to be asked for a tank of SUPER RE- "Any thing else?" she asks West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. 1971, Canup worked for the automatically. Michigan 48904 sure. But what's worse is that GU-LAR. Or when you asked Horticulture Department and adult human beings have to the wife to get' some Wing "No, no, no, that's all." Second class postage later gained editing, layout and paid at use the same Peter Pan, Walt Dings, Ding Dongs and Ho- After she pushes the paper Greenville, Michigan writing experience tnrough Disney playground names to hums to put in your lunch. bag over the counter, you employment with the get something to eat. And you Yeah, you've been there clutch it like a Teddy bear Agriculture Experiment know that advertising man is sitting in his office laughing his before, you think to yourself. Practically every day since hoping nobody spits at you, and wish you had stayed home FaRmn Station Information Services and the Clinton County News, ribs loose because he's got half the population of the United leaving the sixth grade you've tried to ho-hum your way and had yourself a bowl of Boo Berry cereal. Bureau a weekly newspaper in St. Johns. AUGUST 1, 1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Farmers to Fight Re-entry Standards With farmers living under A g r i cuI t u r a I S e r v ice blocked standard enforcement the grace of .a court order Association; Arthur Dowd, a through a court decision on blocking the imposition of fruit grower from Hartford in July 10. emergency pesticide re-entry standards, the Michigan Farm Van Buren County; and Ken Bull a fruit grower from Bailey The Michigan Farm Bureau MIKE WALLACE TREATMENT in Muskegon County. has consistently insisted that. MFB News and Press Bureau is working in- officers later met with several conjunction with the American The AFBF will have speakers no emergency existed and has Relations manager Bob Farm Bureau executives and Farm Bureau Federation at all four hearings. decided to oppose the en- Driscoll interviewed and taped officia Is before being ad- (AFBF) to present the farmers The U.S. Department of forcement of any emergency with state FFA officers when dressed by Harold Lein, point of view at hearings Labor originally planned to standard. they visited MFB headquar- Manager, Michigan Livestock concerning the establishment impose a strict standard M. J. Bushlen said reliable ters in Lansing on July 12. The Exchange. of a permanent standard. covering 21 organophosphate sources have informed him Hearings are scheduled for chemicals on June 18 under that The Department of July 31 in Boise, Idaho; Aug. 2 t he aut hority of the Oc- Labor's own research sub- in Phoenix, Ariz.; Aug. 15 in Atlanta, Ga.; and Aug. 22 in cupational Safety and Health Act. Legal action filed by the stantiated Farm Bureau's contentions that there was no Tours to Puerto Rico, Wash ington D.C. AFBF won a stay and a less basis for an emergency Representing Michigan growers in Washington will be stringent temporary standard covering 12 organophospates standard and that department had access to this the Atlantic City M. J. Busch len, Operations was issued to be effective July information before issuing the Ma~ager of the Michigan 13. Again AFBF legal action. first standard in June. Set for Membership FB Women Michigan farmers can chase at La Guardia Field and return Annual Meeting: Organize away mid-winter blues taking advantage of exciting by to Michigan. Cost of the convention tour tours to Puerto Rico and is $183.53 from Grand Rapids, Re-entry Battle Atlantic City scheduled for $179.17 from Lansing, pnd It's' Got Class The Michigan Farm Bureau January, 1974. Atlantic City, home of the $149.39 from Detroit. Costs include transportation, hotel is attemping to mobilize its world:iamous board walk, will accommodations in New York, members so they may be be the site of the annual sightseeing, admissions and The year of 1973 will see Bureau Women hold their heard on the pesticide re-entry American Farm Bureau tips. many changes in the Michigan annual meeting and Young standard issue. Statements Federat ion nat ional con- The second tour offered to Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. Farmers have many activities. from apple, peach and grape ventiqn. For those who want a Farm Bureau members is a To fit the schedule of farmers, First, there is the Discussion growers can be entered into taste of big city life there will visit to the land of sunshine n the meeting will be held in Meet and an evening banquet the records of public hearing be a. post-convention tour to Puerto Rico -- from January 27 December. - featuring Dr. John Furbey. A concerning the establishment the biggest of them all, New to February 1. Flying non-stop A new feature will be the dance that evening has been of a permanent re-entry York City. Detroit on a luxury 707 jet, the "Farm Bureau Act." This is an added, too. standard, if they meet Leaving Sunday, January 13, Michigan group will tour the evening of recognition and Commodity Conferences technical requirements. from Grand Rapids, Lansing historic old San Juan and the entertainment. A nationally and the policy development Special contingents of Farm and Detroit, the tour groups modern new San Juan as well known television personality process fill the schedule for Bureau Women have been will fly directly to Philadelphia as seeing agriculture in action will be present. This event, Thursday. That evening a organized to assure growers where they will be transferred in Puerto Rico. There will be Tuesday evening, December "Delegate's Banquet" will that their statements meet to the Atlantic City Convention opportunity for optional side 11, follows the opening feature a well-known speaker, these requirements and are Hotel. Members will attend the trips . to EI Yunque, ceremonies which start at 3 the queen's contest and an received by the August 31 AFBF convention on Monday Conquistador and St Thomas. p.m. with the annual address award to a leader in Michigan deadline. and Tuesday and on Wednes- The cost of this never-to-be- of Farm Bureau President agriculture. The growers who wish to be day they'll board buses for forgotten tour is $286, based The annual meeting will be heard are urged to contact New York City. on a group of 166 members. Elton R Smith. completed on Friday as the their local Women's Com- Th is incl udes transportation, Wednesday features the delegates put the finishing mittee or regional Farm Times Square. Herald U.S. departure tax, lodging and Annual Meetings of Farm touches to the Farm Bureau Bureau representative im- Square, Greenwish Village, the tips. Bureau Services, Inc. and Farmers Petroleum. The Farm policies for 1974. mediately. Bowery, Rockefeller Center, To receive a colorful Statements should be sent Central Park, United Nations, brochure of complete details to: MASA, P.O. Box 960, the Statue of Liberty and on these tours, write to Ken Lansing, Mich. 48906. numerous other sites are Wiles, manager, member included on the two-day ex- relations, Michigan Farm Tax Hearings Scheduled County cursion. One even ing wi II be Bureau, P.O. Box 960, Lansing, spent at New York's Radio City Michigan 48904. Indicate Secretary Music Hall, and another will be whether you would like in- free to lido your own thing." formation on the convention Senator Harry DeMaso, Chairman of the Senate Taxation Committee, has announced that he and his committee will hold Dies On Friday morning, January tour, the Puerto Rican tour, or 18, the group will board planes both. a series of public hearings especially for city and township Mrs Bert (Maxine) Cripe, of assessors and county equalization directors to explain to the Niles, who served as secretary committee the present procedures for assessment and of the Berrien County Farm equalization. Officials will also have an opportunity to point out Bureau for the past seven the effect that the State Tax Commission's equalization methods have on their local units. years, died July 11 at the age Deadline For Farmer Award of 50. She had been a patient One of the most vexing problems for assessors and at Niles Pawating Hospital Deadline for submitting and former contestants, with equalization directors is farmland taxation. Many realize the since June 18. entry forms for this year's the exception of previous first- assessment procedure now required works a tremendous Mrs Cripe is survived by her hardship on producing farmers. They must pay taxes based on Young Farmer Award is place winners, are eligible to husband, a daughter, Mrs September 1. The award, participate. Applicants must land values other than their value for agricultural purposes. Cha rles Van De Larre of This issue, which a few years ago only affected a few farmers in designed to recognize young be Farm Bureau members and Galesburg; three grand- Farm Bureau members for no more than 30 years old on metropolitan areas, is now affecting farmers throughout the children; five brothers, outstanding achievement in December 31, 1973. state. It is reported that several counties not yet affected by Charles Ackerman of the business of farming, will be Official entry forms may be this can expect whopping equalization increases in the near Kingsford Heights, Indiana; presented at the Michigan obta ined from County Young future. Robert of Buchanan; Kenneth Hearings will begin on July 30 in Detroit, 10:00 a.m. in the Farm Bureau annual meeting Farmer Committees, county of Chicago; William of Three in Grand Rapids in December. Farm Bureau secretaries, or City-County Building, Auditorium on the 13th floor, for people Oaks; and Richard of East Michigan's state winner will be from the Michigan Farm in the ten surrounding counties; Aug. 7 in Saginaw, 10 :00 a.m. Leroy; three sisters, Mrs Jean entered in the national contest Bureau Young Farmer in the County Courthouse, for the 15 surrounding counties; Bauer of Bloomfield Hills, Mrs and will receive an award trip Department. Entries must be Aug. 9 in Grand Rapids, 10:00 a.m., third floor of the City- Shirley Bross of Augusta and for two to the American Farm mailed by the September 1 County Building, to hear testimony from the 17-county area; Mrs Joan Oldenburg of Bureau Federation convention deadline to: David L. Cook, Aug. 16, Gaylord, 10:00 a.m., the meeting place will be an- Sawyer. in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Young Farmer Department, nounced; Aug. 20, Marquette, 10 :00 a.m., Ontario Room, Memorials for Mrs Cripe There is no limit to the Michigan Farm Bureau, P.O. University Center, Northern Michigan University. Township were made to the Berrien number of young farmers who Box 960, Lansing, Michigan assessors and county equalization directors may attend any County Farm Bureau. may enter from anyone county 48904. one of these meetings. PAGE 4 AUGUST 1, 1973 CAPITUl III:IIIIIrr Robert E. Smith New land Use Proposal Introduced Rep. Mastin (D-Hazel Park) has introduced H.B. 5055, creating a seven-member land Use Commission which would have the responsibility of preparing a state land use plan for the protection of land resources and preparing rules for "areas of critical state concern." Included in the critical areas would be Classes I, /I and III of farmland. A 40-member Advisory Council has been created, consisting of representatives from industry, agriculture, labor, govern- ment agencies and other interested groups. The bill is very comprehensive -- 39 pages in length -- and creates, in addition to the Land Use Commission and Advisory Council, a State IIClearing House," a five-member "Council on Differences" to resolve differences between various agencies; also, a five-member State Land Adjudicatory Board for the purposes of certain appeals. The bill relies on local agencies, township, county and city, including county boards of com- missioners, township boards, city councils, planning com- missions, etc., etc. No Sour Grapes Rep. Mastin said that "the aim is to encourage local land use State ReDresentatives John A. Welborn (R- the union situation that was disseminated by planning and local implementation of land use standards Kalamazoo), right, and Donald Van Single (R- fellow legislators. .... what is hoped for is the rationa I allocation of increasingly Grant), left treated their colleagues to 12 scarce land resource sources." A unique point system is set up The Representatives were told to eat pounds of California grapes on the House hardily from the grape clusters since,-con- within the bill as guidelines to help determine whether floor after an effort was made to debate the trary to popular opinion, there was a nine to development should be permitted in an area. union issue of California farm laborers during one chance they were picked by union labor. Mr. Mastin said that the Towns and Counties Committee will session. Many Democrats and Republicans The grapes were consumed in less than 15 hold public hearings during the summer legislative recess. It signed a tribute to the misinformation about minutes. will be recalled that Governor Milliken has also given the DNR the responsibility to develop a land use program. There are some federal pressures to require all states to develop land use legislation. Such legislation is presently being considered in Congress.. Agricultural Task Force Sausagelegislation While Congress is considering legislation that will permit Michigan to have higher sausage law standards, the State Reactivated by Milliken legislature is considering a Farm Bureau-supported bill (H.B. 4974) to require retailers to post a placard listing the products that do not meet Michigan meat ingredient standards. This is to Governor Milliken has an- original report and have an "Marketing. Many of the inform consumers and encourage greater use of Michigan meat nounced that the Task Force opportunity to make recom- recommendations of the task products. on the Future of Agriculture mendations directly to the force were included in the will be reactivated. Dan Reed, Governor through the task marketing and bargaining bill Energy Crisis retired s"ecretary-manager of force. passed during the last session Many farmers already are being notified that their need for Michigan Farm Bureau, will The first meeting will be held of the Legislature. It permitted natural gas for crop drying will be sharply curtailed. For in- again act as cha.irman.. on Sept 26 in the Upper farmers to organize for the stance, in one area of the state 22 farmers have been notifi~d. .Ev~ry person I~te~es~ed In Peninsula, at Engadine; the purpose of bargaining for the Farm Bureau has talked with the Michigan Public Servjce Michigan s future IS Inv.lted to second meeting will be held terms of sale; also, protecting Commission and will present testimony at a hearing on the atten.d one of the meetings to Sept 27 at Crystal Falls. All farmers from unfair trade issue to urge that agriculture will be given a priority status to be I n,formed of. the ac- other meetings will be held in practices. assure the necessary fuel for crop drying. _ compllshments since the Oct. -- Jackson, Oct. 11; labor issues and the crisis Blissfield, Oct. 17; Mt that can be created by food Pleasant, Oct. 18; Benton boycotts, land use, the in- West Central Rep Picked Harbor, Oct. 24; and Alpena, creasing amount~ of prime Oct. 25. All meetings will be agricultural land lost to "urban held at 8:00 p.m.; the actual sprawl" was considered. Robert Shepard, 28, of and was run ner-up in the 1970 Michigan State University in location of each meeting will Agricultural research an,d Fremont has been named State Discussion Meet. He also 1967 with a degree in dairy be announced later. the major contribution It Coordinator of County Offices served on the county Young science. The original task force, makes to farmers, consumers for the Michigan Farm Bureau, Farmer Committee, mem- Bob, and his wife Ruth Ellen, headed by Mr. Reed, was and the entire economy. a nd assumed h is new bership committee and and their two children, will appointed by Governor Ecology was considered. A responsiqilities on August 1. community group committee. move to the Lansing area in Milliken in August, 1970. The plea was made that agriculture Shepard has been an MFB Shepard graduated from the near future. committee held 17 meetings be permitted to continue to Regional Representative for throughout the state, attended use the necessary fertilizers, the West Central region since by about 600 persons actively pesticides and other practices 1971. involved in agriculture or essential to meet the growing A former dairy farmer, he Senator Linowich related occupations. need for food and fibre. was active in Farm Bureau Housing. It was pointed out before becoming an employee, Ag Committeeman Dies More than 70 recom- that agriculture could ~ot mendations were contained in the report that was delivered carry the burden of updat~ng Harry Litowich, prominent 1960and 1962, he was elected Berrien County farmer and to the Senate, where he to the Governor on December seasonal farm labor hOUSing former member of the chaired the Senate Agriculture 1, 1970. Many made an effect alone. The Legislature has in these eight major areas: continued to fund a law that Michigan House of Committee. has been passed matching Representatives and Senate, Well-known for h is service to TAXATION. Property tax expenditures for this purpose. died July 2. He had been in the Berrien County Youth Fair reform wa s recommended Natural Resources Com- intensive care for injuries and the Cass County Fair, he with support for greenbelt mission was considered and a received in an auto accident also served on the Board of legislation basing farm taxes representative of agriculture two weeks prior to his death. Directors of the Salvation on actual farmland values on the commission was Litowich lived on a farm near Army and as finance chairman rather than potential value. suggested. Increasing the Benton Harbor where he of the Berrien County Council The Governor's tax relief commission from five mem- raised horses. A resident of of Churches. measure, passed this year, is a bers to seven members this Berrien County for over 60 A memorial tribute was paid broad step toward tax relief, year will make that possible. years, he was elected to the to the former Senator by the but specific legislation is still Governor Milliken is presently House of Representatives in Michigan Senate in the form of needed to carry out the rest of considering appointees for the Bob Shepard 1952.1954 and 1956. In 1958. a resolution, the recommendations. two additional positions. AUGUST 1, 1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 5 FPC Conserves for Harvest Maximum effort has been NATIONAL NOTES Farm Program by Albert A. Almy EPA Permit Program pledged by Farmers Petroleum Cooperative, Inc, to assure On July 19,the House passed a new farm program to replace On July 5, the Environmental Protection Agency published its adequate supplies of gasoline the Agricultural Act of 1970, which expires at the end of 1973. permit program rules for agriclture. The rules require that live- and diesel fuel for Michigan The bill would establish a four-year program and require USDA stock operations with 1,000 animal units or more (1,000 beef farm production, according to to establish target prices for wheat, feed grains and cotton each animals, 700 dairy cows, 2,500 hogs weighing more than 55 Carl Heisler, president of the year starting with 1974. Target prices in 1974 would be $2.05 pounds each, 55,000 turkeys, 30,000 layers if a liquid manure farmer-owned cooperative. per bu. for wheat, and $1.38 per bu. for corn. After 1974, the system is used, 10,000 sheep and 5,000 ducks) must submit a "Top priority is being given ta rget prices would be adjusted each year to reflect any permit application with EPAor the State agency responsible for to supplying our regular changes in the index of prices paid by farmers for production water pollution control. Operators of fish farms where farmer customers with suf- items, interest, taxes and wage rates. The Administration discharges from a pond or raceway occur on more than 30 days ficient liquid fuels to carry strongly opposed this escalator provision. per year and annual production exceeds 20,000 pounds must "through the all-important Upon completion of harvest, the target prices would be also apply for a permit. Return flow irrigation systems covering harvest season," Heisler said. compared with the open market price during the first five more than 3,000 acres must file a permit application. Farmers Petroleum Co-op months of the marketing year for the crop. If the market price Run-off from fields, orchards, crop and forest lands are not began more than a month ago exceeded the target price the government would pay no income covered by the permit program. Livestock operations of less to shut down aII of its reta il supplement to farmers. However, if the target price exceeded than 1,000 animal units are not required to file a permit ap- gasoline outlets and many the market price the government would pay farmers an income plication, but are subject to other requirements, of the Federal local cooperatives that obtain supplement to make up the difference. Water Pollution Control Program. These requirements include supplies through the state The House bill also provides for a permanent increase in the effluent guidelines and standards of performance. The EPA group have adopted similar minimum milk price support level at 80% of parity, extends rules were made effective immediately. action. In addition, the Class I Base plan authority, extends dairy and beekeeper in- The Michigan Water Resources Commission has submitted a cooperative is refusing new demnities, repeals the wheat certificate program and limits plan for EPAapproval that will allow it to administer the permit customers to save fuels for payments to $20,000 per farm. The bill also bans the issuance program in Michigan: Farm Bureau supports administration by farm production use. of food stamps to strikers and requires the President to permit State Personnel. WRC permit program rules have been Although the farm a pass-through of certain costs on agricultural products when developed and are awaiting approval. The WRC rules would cooperative owns several oil prices are frozen and the Secretary of Agriculture certifies a apply the permit program to Michigan agriculture in the same wells which partially supply shortage of such products exists. manner as the EPA program. patron needs, Heisler declared The House bill differs in several respects from an earlier bill the current fuel shortage is approved by the Seante. A House-Senate Conference Com- Phase IV "very real" and major con- mittee will now be appointed to resolve the differences. However, because of the escalator clause and potential high The nature of the Phase IV controls is favorable to most of servation measures are cost of the program authorized by the bills, a Presidential veto the food industry from producer to retail levels. While Farm essential. may occur. Bureau remains opposed to price controls, it emphasized the Farmers Petroleum- need for development and release at the earliest possible date Cooperat ive official shave of Phase IV rules for the food industry. This has been ac- joined other oil industry compHshed except for the beef industry, which remains under leaders in citing need for Minimum Wage price controls until Sep"tember 12. Phase IV exempts all other greater exploration and development of domestic fuel The Senate has passed a minimum wage bill which would raw agricultural products from price controls and allows for a supplies, higher imports, and raise the present $1.30 per hour agricultural minimum wage to pass-through of increased raw product costs on a dollar for use of Alaskan oil. Officials see $2.20 per hour in four years after enactment. It would also dollar basis at processing and retail levels. little hope of ending the fuel eliminate the exemption of harvest piece rate workers who Michigan Farm Bureau provided information to crisis in the near future. worked less than 13 weeks in the prior year and would repeal Congressmen on the result that closing of meat plants would Looking to the winter' the overtime pay exemption for agricultural processors and have upon the production of livestock. This information was months, Heisler warned that handlers. The bill is now before a House-Senate Conference forwarded to the Cost of Living Council by several prospects for adequate home; Committee to resolve differences between it and a separate Congressmen for its consideration in developing rules for heating fuel are causing deep House-passed bill. Phase IV controls. concern. No-Fau't: What do we Do With It? Collision Coverage pays for the cost of repairing or replacing Generation Editor's note: October 1, 1973 is the effective date for No- Stormy weather. Power goes Fault auto insurance ... a law which will significantly influence your vehicle when damaged due to upset or collision. off. That standby generator the future of every Michigan driver, including Farm Bureau Comprehensive Coverage pays for all losses to your car could just IIstand by" while the members. This is the first of three articles explaining No-Fault except those caused by collision with another car, object or by power loss ta kes its toll if and what it means to you. upset. Theft, falling objects, windstorm, explosion are some of there's no one at home who No-Fault auto insurance is law. This auto insurance concept the risks covered. And you have qeductible options. knows how to start it. became law through debate and resolution of the Michigan Emergency Road Service Coverage is generally provided as IITeach other family Legislature and, ultimately, by the signature of Governor an option. members how to start the Milliken. Now that we; Michigan drivers, have a law, what do we Innocent Victim Coverage pays bodily injury costs caused by standby generator in case of / do with it and what does it do to us? a financially irresponsible driver or un-insured motorist. . .for an emergency," advises Let's first take a basic look at our current IItort" auto in- you and your family. Truman Surbrook, Michigan surance concept versus the concept of No-Fault. What happens to these coverages under No-Fault? Innocent State University agricultural Tort auto insurance, in its essence, springs from British Victim, Emergency Road Service and Comprehensive engineer. Common Law. Stated simply: Victims of accidents involving coverages remain essentially the same. Here similarities end. "If a power loss is very two or more people must prove that someone else is guilty Tort Bodily Injury will become No-Fault Residual Liability critical to your farm operation, before collecting payment from the lIat _fault" person's in- Current Property Damage will, in large part, change to Property get an automatic unit. It's surance company. This burden of proof often resulted in court Protection Insurance. Medical Payments (No-Delay) will expensive and requires weekly procedures lasting months or years. become Personal Injury Protection. These three new coverages checking, but it is automatic." Generally, Michigan's No-Fault plan eliminates that burden are mandatory under No-Fault. If you have a conventional of proof. An accident victim can speedily collect benefits from Collision remains optional but, has undergone vital change standby generator, Surbrook his own insurance company regardless of who is "at fault." This under No-Fault. Drivers cannot expect to recover No-Fault lists these guidelines for is the origination of the term No-Fault. .. a system which aims at Collision damage costs from the other driver's insurance starti ng it: protecting most drivers from lawsuits resulting from accidents. company. Payment must come from your own insurance First, remember the To accomplish this, the law makes auto insurance compulsory company. If you currently have a collision deductible, 0" are not generator is connected to the for all owners of cars, buses, trucks and trailers. Two-wheel carrying collision coverage, you'll have to pay all or a portion of farm wiring through a transfer motorcycles are not included. Not insuring a vehicle can result your own loss regardless of IIfault." switch. You'll have to flip on in a $500 fine, jail for a year (or both), and loss of driver's However, new collision options have been created to pay all the switch when you get the license and car plates. of your collision costs if the other driver is llat fault." generator going. Before listing the types of coverage Michigan car owners Before you start the must have under No-Fault, let's look at the voluntary coverages Obviously, No-Fault does mean change. With change comes a generator, make sure that under the current tort system. "need to know" for all Michiganders. And Farm Bureau In- everything is shut off. Flip off surance Group is trying to help. switches and pull all plugs. If Bodily Injury Liability Coverage protects you, or anyone using Early in September, persons insuring their cars, trucks, you have a circuit breaker, flip your car with your permission, for legal liability caused by an buses and trailers with Farm Bureau Insurance Group will the main one. accident. receive No-Fault policy endorsements, cost-itemized Start the generator. When Property Damage Liability Coverage, like bodily injury, declaration pages and explanatory No-Fault brochures. it's up to full capacity, throw protects you or anyone driving your car, with your permission, Farm Bureau Insurance people, including your local in- the transfer switch. for legal liability caused by an accident. surance agent, will be using a 20-minute consumer slide/tape Then turn on just essential No-Delay Medical Payments Coverage is a unique program presentation which tells the No-Fault story. It can be shown to equipment--those things developed by Farm Bureau Insurance Group which provides your church, community or school group by calling your local critical to you, your family and No-Fault-like benefits. Your "fault" or not, No-Delay pays you Farm Bureau agent or writing Communications Division, Farm your farm operation. Don't up to $3,000 for hospital-medical expenses. Up to $4,380 in Bureau Insurance Group, 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Lan- turn on everything. Most disability benefits are available to non-wage earners and up to sing, Michigan 48904 generators can't handIe the $6,000 for wage earners. Next Month: No-Fault Coverage Analysis full load. PAGE 6 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS AUGUST 1, 1973 Phase IV Effects on Commodities EGGS - Increases in raw WHEAT - promise of no farm prices paid to producers export limitations at this time. can now be reflected in Wheat product price freeze processed product prices. partially lifted. Increases in NAVY BEANS - Incr~ases raw producer prices can be in raw farm prices paid reflected in processed product producers can be reflected price. dollar for dollar in processed SOYBEANS Export product prices. limitations to be eased to allow MilK - Raw milk prices renewed exports of old crop received by producers can soybeans. Export controls to tt ... apparently be adjusted up- be lifted September 15th, ward. Imports of 80 million Ibs. 1973. of dried skimmed milk will be CORN - .Promise of no allowed. export limitations at this time. BEEF - Price controls are CHERRIES - Increases in Top Feeders First Delivery left in effect with promise to lift price ceilings September raw farm prices can be Select livestock and poultry reflected in processed product feeders from Huron County The first shipment of by John Simpson of the 13, 1973. prices. toured the Farm Bureau cherries for Michigan Certified leelanau Peninsula on July 18. PORK - Price ceilings OTHER FRUITS AND Services Battle Creek feed Farm Markets was handed removed July 18, '73. In- VEGETABLES- Increases in plant on July 16. Several of the over to Don Hill of Montrose Jim Lincoln, manager of creases in raw farm prices can raw farm prices can b.e guests were directors of Orchards in Genessee County MCFM, waits for a crate. be relflected in processed reflected in processed product cooperatives and agricultural product prices. prices. leaders. New Pig Lot to Open in August The Feeder Pig Division of CHERRY PRICES The cherry price increase of 4C per lb. to the .1~C level UP Special Freeze group of the Cost of Living CounciI. to get Marl • S Women, among Farm Bureau Federation's Women's Pleasant; Mrs. Robert Benson, In.formatlon h~ndouts and ~ ~.'¥ ,:~ ,,' ~'; members and the public. Committee. Officials Cadillac; Mrs. Doris Cordes, ~llk product recipes were also ~t '~~J~ The program of work will be representing nearly every Barton City; Mrs. James presented to county Farm division of MFB addressed the Gribbell, Engadine; and Mrs. r~veen pt~o~~~fo~h~~~~~pe~~~ i:'~~lb ':"'::~"'~-,.,~\~~:i::/t:::j1~: Bureau Women's Committees group, including MFB Kenneth Corey, Stephenson. drawings for plastic infl~table "i~,.""'~' .:,:' along with suggestions for President Elton R. Smith. Other participants were: cowsdrew a big response from t~' '~" , ','!¥:.~~~, projects to meet outlined Mrs. Levi Van Tuyle, Dowagiac, the younger crowd.;t~~~~R~~~, challenges. Each county The state program planning Mrs. Henry Hudson, Fowler- Chairman of the two-day committee is urged to committee is chaired by Mrs. ville; Mrs. John Rhoades, promotion was Mrs. Larry determine its_goals, establish Andrew Jackson, vice- Cia rksville; Mrs. Harold Wagner. Her committee of priorities, and develop a cha irman of the Michigan McMichael, Mason; Mrs. Joel dairy wives included Mrs. program to meet the mem- Farm Bureau Women. Others Chapin, Remus; Mrs. Arthur Julius Campau, Mrs. Don bers' needs. The state participating in the planning Schindler, Gladwin; Mrs. John Lautner, Mrs. Frank Lipinski program was developed to session included: Mrs. Richard Kronemeyer, Pickford; Mrs. and Mrs. Walter Core, Jr. The Northwest Farm Bureau stimulate interest and help Wieland, Ellsworth, state Karl Kimerer, Britton; Mrs. Other workers were Mrs.. Queen situates milk in the unify efforts on a statewide Women's chairman; Mrs. George Rodgers, Caledonia; Wayne Bancroft, Mrs. Jim Call, Traverse City display while a level towards objectives and James Spark, Cassopolis; Mrs. Mrs. Elmo Heft, Conklin; Mrs. and Northwest Michigan Farm shopper samples Michigan goa Is emph asized i nth e Remus Rigg, Coldwater; Mrs. Wayne Adam, Snover, " and Mrs. Bureau Queen, Nancy Core. cheese. program. . Paul Geiger, South Lyon; Mrs. Clarence Kraft, Lachine. Shiawassee Women Develop Young "Healthniksll Students were encouraged meatballs and various kinds of to eat their learning tools in a dips for celery, carrots, apple popular project in the lower slices and crackers. The Farm elementary grades of the Bureau Women used the dips Corun na schools prior to to demonstrate to the children summer recess. The pilot that there are snacks other program was designed by the .than pop and potato chips, and Cooperative Extension Service that they are good as well as to give children -- and their nutritious. parents -- the basic principles Each child who participated of a balanced diet. Young in the program was awarded a homemakers with a keen "Good Healthnik" certificate, interest in improving and the final session was children's eating habits were concluded with a nutritious ice recruited from the Shiawassee cream sundae. County Farm Bureau Women's Committee to serve as Parents were enthusiastic teachers. about the program, too, and Each volunteer was reported that children who assigned to a first or second wouldn't try some foods at grade class for six weekly home were willing to ex- lessons. The lessons included periment at school. School the basic four food groups -- teachers and administrators fruits and vegetables, breads were also pleased with the and cereals, meats and dairy health project. products -- with parents in- Phyllis Johncock, Extension vited to a review session. Class home economist, reports that participation was encouraged the Shiawassee Farm Bureau as the children had an op- Women will take responsibility , portun ity to prepa re for the program this fall and A bunch of young IIHealthniks" help their Farm Bureau teacher prepare a delicious concoction something from each food will expand it to other schools in which to dip their celery, carrot sticks, apple slices and crackers. Almost better than pop and group. They made butter, rolls, throughout the county. potato chips! AUGUST 1, 1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 11 RECORD ENROLLMENT AT STUDENT CITIZENSHIP The tenth annual Young People's Citizenship Seminar, students banquet. SEMINAR at an evening D6NNA WILBER held at Ferris State College Student evaluations of the PLAINLY PLAGIARIZED APPLAUSE FOR. .. June 18-22, attracted 203 seminar indicated they had Many pessimists believe ... Farm Bureau members students representing 61 gained a greater appreciation that the letter "E" is the most like Mrs. Arlene Weaver, Eaton counties -- a new attendance of their American heritage and unfortunate letter in t he County, busy farm wife and record. The seminar, spon- a new knowledge of our alphabet. They say it is always mother of nine children, who sored by the Michigan Farm economic and political out of "cash," forever in puts to shame all of us who use Bureau, included mock systems. They reported they "debt," never out of "danger," the worn-out excuse -- "I'm too political activities, classes and were inspired by the speakers, and in "torment" all' the time. busy" -- when asked to con- discussions dealing with the and were motivated to actively Optimists, on the other hand, tribute our time and efforts to America n system. support the American way of remind us that it is never in a worthwhile project. Neither County Farm Bureaus Iife and its system of self- "war," always in "peace," and her usual hectic schedule, nor contributed to the success of government. always in something to "eat." a bout of illness, kept her from the seminar by' selecting The average age of this It is the beginning of "en- conducting a successful Queen qualified high school juniors year's seminar student was Semi nar students found couragement," and "en- Contest in her county. and seniors to attend and 16-1/2 years. About 75 per- acting to be a necessary part of deaver" and the end of. Agriculture and Farm Bureau sponsoring their trip to Ferris. cent were from rural areas and orientation in politics. "failure." It is in the midst of need people like Mrs. Weaver Many county bureaus plan to about half were from Farm "friends" and "neighbors," anp her counterparts in other have students report on their Bureau families. and without it, "home" would counties -- Bless them all! experiences to Farm Bureau not be complete. It is never in .. , the hundreds of and other groups. "injury," "pain," "fatality," Michigan newspapers which Conducting the "people and "doctor," or "hospital," but is help us tell the story of governments around the forever present in "health,'" agriculture. On behalf of all world" classes at the seminar "wealth," "happiness," "wife," Farm Bureau member- was Dr. John Furbay, world- "children," "relatives," and families, we recently ex- traveler and renowned puplic safety." pressed appreciation to them speaker. Dr. Clifton Ganus, * * * through the Michigan Press president of Harding College, " Association publication, Searcy, Arkansas, instructed It s been ~Id that Grandr:na "Michigan Publisher," for their "Americanism" classes, and was the first to practice part in creating better un- Professor John A. Sparks ecology. derstanding between rural presented a mini-course in She f~und a ~se !or nearly and u'rban people. They economics. Michigan Farm everythmg today s ~Ife throws perform a valuable and often Bureau regional represen- away -- and called It economy. taken-for-granted service __ tative Kenn Wimmer guided * * * Bless them all! the students in their political From a poor nation where * * * party activities. nobody thought of themselves WITH TONGUE IN CHEEK ... Art Holst, National Football as being poor, to a rich nation Cooperation is doing with a League line judge and long- where everybody is beginning smile what you have to do time favorite of Michigan Farm to think of themselves as being anyway. Bureau members, was also on poor; is what happened to the * * * the seminar program. Elton R. Hungary for knowledge? Well ... maybe this part of the United States of America in Middle age is when you know Smith, Michigan Farm Bureau seminar satisfied just plain hunger. 200 years, from 1776 to 1976. all the answers but nobody president, addressed the * * * ever asks you the questions. Want to go to School? Wondering How You Can? This may be the answer -- Michigan Rural Rehabilitation Corporation, with offices in Marshall, has funds available to help eligible students attend college or trade or vocational schools. According to Nyle L. Katz, Executive Director of the Cor- poration any student who is from a farm family and whose grades a'reacceptable for entry at the school of his choice, may be eligible for a student loan. Are you interested? Call or write for details. Michigan Rural Rehabilitation Corporation Nyle Katz, Executive Director 125 Redfield Plaza Post Office Box 188 Marshall, Michigan 49068 Picture yourself in the place of these two University. These gentlemen can testify that loan recipients. David G. leaders (left), now a once you're accepted to the program, you will senior in engineering at Tri-State College, not be dropped while in school. received this loan as a freshman. Donald E. Dickenson (right), now teaching in Flint, The students are backed by parents and received his loan as a senior at Michigan State Rural Rehabilitation Corporation executives. PAGE 12 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS AUGUST 1, 1973 PRESENT ISSUES: The following-are not expressions of Farm Bureau policy Land Use and Property Rights. A number of people apparently view with concern the fact wilderness zone in Porcupine Mounta ins State Park and the that many new environmental protection laws and regulations Forest Service's pioneer and botanical zones in the Sylvania have gone on the books in recent years. For some reason-such Recreation Area in the Ottawa National Forest. Natural areas laws as those perpetuating our dwind ling wilderness resource, are a logical component of a comprehensive land use plan; the establishing development-free zones along our trout streams new Michigan law only brought this well-accepted primary-use and other free-flowing rivers, protecting these rivers' zoning classification to more people's attention. tributaries, clamping down on practices which result in soil (2) To simply say that wilderness zoning stops commodity erosion and sedimentation, and giving citizens standing in extraction isto ignore the fact that these public lands have been court to sue polluters, are seen by some as a threat to administered on a multiple-use basis for years and most of traditiona I property rights. As Ann Arbor attorney Clan them could have been logged, mined, or otherwise developed if Crawford, Jr. notes recently in the North Woods Call, "In vast someonecould have made a profit by exploiting them. The DNR areas in Michigan it is the prevailing opinion that a man has a usually accomodates harvesters of natural resource on its land. right to do what he wants with his own property and that Many of the tracts being considered for wilderness designation zoning and planning are a communistic plot to deprive owners are poor sites for anything other tha n extensive recreation use. of ancient privileges without compensation." If any potential wilderness area can be shown, at the required During my seven years in Washington, D.C., I worked for the public hearings, to have a I1higher" economic use potential, the passageof new conservation laws. I did not consider the costs Natural Resources Commission may not dedicate it as borne by individual citizens such as condemnation of homes for wilderness, or could declassify it later, if need be. new national parks or higher taxes for new community waste (3) Commodity exploitation by local industries may treatment plants as outweighing the benefits of these represent short-run economic boost to an area compared to the programs to the public at large. I still don't. We assumed that it sustained flow of dollars spent by recreational users of was in the national interest to preserve some natural areas for wilderness areas for gasoline, food, guides, rental canoes. and public enjoyment and to protect the quality of our water other goodsand services.When the supply of high-grade timber supplies for future domestic and recreational use. In and ore runs out, so may the industry based on it, often leaving restrospect, I would support amendments to these programs to a degraded environment behind. Meanwhile, industries paying better compensate those caused financial hardship u helping minimum wages could bring families into the community which people successfully relocate themselves, for example. But let's would cost more to protect and educate than they pay in taxes. look specifically at some new environmental protection Local expenditures of wilderness visitors are all on the income programs and see if they truly have adverse economic and side of the ledger.. freedom-of-action consequences. (4) If the impact of wilderness designations on the local M. Rupert Cutler is an The Michigan Wilderness and Natural Areas Act of 1972 has property tax base is an important issue, I would judge that the assistant professor at been described as a program for affluent southern Michigan argument favoring wilderness designations probably will win. Michigan State University and hikers and birdwatchers. Supposedly it is designed to establish I make this assertion after reviewing the real estate ad- a member of the Extension locked-up nature preserves on state land in northern Michigan vertising carried in the "Trading Post" section of Michigan Out- Committe on land and Water. for their exclusive and free use by making logging, mining, of-Doors magazine. Typical ads read, "When you select your A native of Detroit, Cutler has intensive recreational development and other activities which vacation homesite will your backyard be a national forest been a consultant to the Office result in local economic activity illegal. The Department of preserve to roam and hunt and play on? ... Crystal Mountain of Environment and Urban Natural Resources is required to make a higher payment (in Club Estates (has) the new Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park Systems of the U.S. Depart- place of property tax) to local government in designated only 20 minutes away .... 10 acres on Tahquamenon River ment of Transportation. He wilderness that it makes to areas that are not so zoned. This is (with) wilderness hunting and fishing." was editor of Virginia Wildlife, to compensate for economic activity lost as a result of the Where would you rather purchase a second-home site, near a a state conservation magazine, wilderness designation. quiet wilderness area or adjacent to land open year=around to and has written several Does the argument hold water? I'll make these four points, logging, mining, and snowmobile and motorcycle use? The magazine articles on con- leaving the conclusion to you: designation of wilderness probably will increase the value of servation as well as con- ( 1) The existence of federal and state laws setting aside nearby private land and thereby increase local property tax tributing chapters to two wilderness for recreational, fish, wildlife, natural heritage and income. books on the subject. Cutler other values indicates a substantial segment of the American Another new program to keep Michigan's environment at- was elected to the executive public supports this type of program. So do high visitor-use tractive is that authorized by the Natural Rivers Act of 1970. committee of the Sierra Club's figures at wilderness areas such as the Boundary Waters Based on local zoning, under DNR guidelines, to control Mackinac chapter and was CanoeArea in Minnesota. Wilderness zoning has been going on riverbank uses and protect the rivers' scenic and recreational appointed to the Michigan since 1924, when the U.S. Forest Service established its first values, it provides for considerable public involvement during Advisory Council on Natural primitive area in New Mexico. Examples of administratively the preparation of river management plans. The Jordan, Rogue, Areas by Governor Milliken. established wilderness in Michigan include the DNR's (continued on next page) Unemployment Insurance for Ag Workers The program would compensate workers for part of their loss of As a result of the Industrial Revolution, America's work force earnings during periods of involuntary unemployment. has been divided into self-employed, employers and employees. The objectives of this legislation include: Latest estimates indicate 85% of all workers in the United 1) dampening the economic cycles by supporting the pur- States are wage or salaried workers. Since production and chasing power of farm workers; therefore employment fluctuate in response to business cycles, 2) retaining the labor force during short period of layoff; the need for protection from loss of income due to lay-offs grew 3) sharing the costs of such an endeavor among all or nearly among hired workers. all employers; In agricultural production, hired workers would be more 4) causing employers as well as state and local governments directly affected by unemployment insurance (UI) than to share the cost of relief (welfare). operators and their families. But because of the potential Michigan farmers could react to the legislation in several stabilizing effect of UI upon agricultural employment, the long- ways: 1) reduce the numbers of hired labor; 2) decrease run effect should be beneficial to the income position of both employment of seasonal labor; 3) increase employment of operators and hired labor. casual labor which is not likely to qualify for benefits; 4) or all All related national legislation since the 1935 Social Security farmers could increase the use of contract labor. Act has excluded farm workers from unemployment insurance M.J. Buschlen is operations To date, agricultural workers receive UI benefits in only coverage. One reason is the lack of comprehensive data con- manager for Michigan Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. When such cerning the probable effects of extending coverage on Agricultural Services inclusive legislation was considered in California, it was agricultural production, workers and on the UI program. Association and has been determined that the extra cost upon employers would place After considering the extension of coverage to agricultural deeply involved in the California agriculture at a disadvantage to other states. The workers in 1966 and 1969, Congress manadated a study on the agricultural labor issue. This same sort of legislation has been introduced in Michigan. impact of such a move in 1970. Worker and employer surveys month he will be a Michigan agricultural employers need to discuss and com- have been completed and the administration is now proposing representative of Michigan pare the impact of Federal Unemployment Insurance against legislation that would include those agricultural employers farmers at the OSHA re-entry the impact of state unemployment programs that would employing four or more workers for 20 weeks or those having a standard hearings in become effective at different times. labor payroll of $5,000 or more during any calendar quarter. Washington, D.C. AUGUST 1, 1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 13 POLICY -IN PROCESS Community Pulse PD Committee Chosen Editor's Note: The Policy in Origina I Pioneer - Livingston Process page will be devoted to keeping readers in touch County -- Have more exchange of commodities within the for August Meeting with policy-making within the Farm Bureau organization and Michigan Farm Bureau. All better service available with The state Policy Develop- Fremont; John Van Page, policy has its roots with new buying and selling. For ment Committee, a group of Breckenridge; Thomas ideas presented to individual example, a central distribution Farm Bureau leaders Kalchik, Northport; Larry members that gather in center for fertilizer and grain. representing each district, Foster, Ocqueoc, and Robert community groups and give Tip-of-the-Thumb -- Huron young farmers and women, Burie, Wallace. recommendations to county County -- We resolve to keep plus three at-large members, Young Farmer represen- bureaus. This page is directed before the public the need for has been appointed and will tatives are Wayne Wood, to these members. additiona I school support meet for the first time on Marlette; Mrs. Dale Weid- through income tax. August 15 in Lansing. This first mayer, Ann Arbor, and William Undaunted 13 - Van Buren meeting will be just one of full Spike, Owosso. Farm Bureau Bay Shore - Arenac County -- County -- Consider: mini-bike six days during which the Women will be represented by Set a speed limit of 50 mph on and bicycle regulations; our committee will spend in Mrs. Paul Geiger, South Lyon; secondary roads, since we -state judicial system; and deliberation of policy Mrs Karl Kimerer, Britton, and have so many suburbanites hazards such as rabies in recommendations submitted Mrs. Fred Wegmeyer, Herron. living amongst the farming by county Farm Bureaus, and Director-at-Iarge serving on picking up stray animals. commun ity. Th is is our in hearing 50 top-level the committee are: James residential area just like the Star - Kent County -- We resource persons from in- Sayre, Belleville; Jack Laurie, city folks have their's. resolve that new slow-moving dustry, government, univer- Cass City, and Dean Pridgeon, farm machinery should have sities, and Farm Bureau staff Montgomery. Chassel - Houghton County - the slow moving emblems who are experts in their fields. - Concerning the Occupational affixed to machinery at the Chaired by Michigan Farm The committee's biggest Safety Hazards Act. How do we factory. Bureau vice-president, Dean challenge is sifting and' educate the public on the Knox - Gladwin County -- We Pridgeon of Montgomery, the digesting the nearly 1,000 farmer's role? urge the deepening of the committee will be present at recommendations submitted Saginaw River to ac- the s tat e - wid e by county Farm Bureaus Crawford - Isabella County -- commodate oceangoing ships policyqevelopment conference dealing with state, national Continue to push for a ban on so that exports may be loaded on August 30. Also in at- and international issues -- throw-away bottles and cans, on board ships at Saginaw tendance will be the president, then molding them into including soft drinks, beer and instead of being required to be Policy Development Com- packageform to present to the hard liquor. shipped by over-land freight to mittee chairman, women's voting delegates at the state Toledo for loading. chairman, and young farmer annual meeting. Lakeland - Branch County -- Traffic laws should be more Lincoln - Alcona County -- 1) chairman from each county Actions at the state annual Ban unionization of teachers, Farm Bureau.. Sched~led to .meeting in December uniform between states. nurses and doctors. 2) appear at thiS meeting are determine what Michigan Dean Pridgeon Town Valley - Montmorency Congressmen's wages should seve~al ~esource people to Farm Bureau's policy will be County -- the Probate Court only be raised by vote of the provl~e Indep~h a~d up~to- on state affair~ and results in time limit should be shortened people. 3) Have stricter date Inform~tlon, including recommendations to the for settling estates. welfa re laws. Roger Fleming, secret~ry- American Farm Bureau delegates from the 50 state treasurer of the ~mencan Federation. When voting Farm Bureaus meet in Atlantic Farm Bureau Federation. Also City in January, they will on the program will be William Pol icy development determine what Farm Bureau Meese, president of Detroit originates at the grass-roots policy will be on national and Land Use Not Plot Edison, to discuss the energy level, with individual members, international issues. (continued from page 12) crisis and how it 'will affect community groups, commodity In announcing the ap- agriculture. and other Farm Bureau pointment of the Committee, and Betsie Rivers already have been so protected. The non- The state P.D. committee committees presenting Michigan Farm Bureau development zones do prevent the construction of new homes will meet again on September recommendat ions to the president, Elton R. Smith, said, at the river's edge, but imagine how attractive these rivers will 27, and later for a three-day county Farm Bureau policy "Policies are the platform be in the future compared to rivers where no setback controls session on November 28, 29, development committees. At upon wh ich Farm Bureau have been in effect. Th ink how much more riparian property and 30. the county annual meetings in stands and the basis for all its will be worth along the "controlled" river. Representing the 11 Farm October, these recom- activities. We have a unique There are many unanswered questio"ns regarding com- Bureau districts on the mendations are acted upon by organizational structure that prehensive, centralized state land use planning. But a handful committee are: .Jan Vosburg, the members. Decisions gives each member an op- of state employees in Lansing will not take over all local and Climax; Remus Rigg, Cold- reached here from policies for portunity to make their views private land-use decision making. Members of the State water; Ed Erwin, South Lyon; Farm Bureau on county affairs known on issues which affect Legislature will not ignore the objections to a radical power Robert Bender, vice-chairman and recommendations dealing them. It offers all members a shift from county, township, and municipal governments. and of the committee, Middleville; with state, national and in- chance to say what they want planning bodies and will not allow it. They m.ay authon.ze.a Mrs. Harold McMichael, ternational issues are for- their organization to be and legislative packagewhich places the state planning authOrity In Mason; Gerald Elenbaum, warded to the state policy what services and programs the Executive Office of the Governor or in a new agency of state Owen_dale; Myron Kokx, Jr., development committee. they need." government. They may also require this planning office to minimize conflicts with the expenditures and programs of all state agencies and establish a high-level state planning commission to work with sub-state (regional) bodies to develop state and sub-state land use goals such as e.nviron- Thinking of Building mental protection. The package could create centralized or regional land use inventory and data bank units, set up guidelines for local governmental units, and provi~~ for the identification of unique land and water areas of cntlcal state concern which should be subject to state zoning (perhaps 5% of the state's land). This kind of package deserves our support. Tom Bell of Lander, Wyoming, who edits a regional a New Home? newspaper called High Country News, blames th~ "frontier ethic" or the "buffalo hunter menta lity" for opposition to land Modular Homes by Allied are If you are thinking of a use controls. We in Michigan should have matured beyond this built with rugged construction. compact home for a cottage, William P. Richards "buffalo hunter" stage. We may not be ready to accept Regular 4/12 roof lines - for future retirement or a Route ##5 European-type centralized land use controls, but we should be Anderson wood windows. larger home for a family with a 51.. Johns. Michigan ready to accept a state planning statute which restates and Aluminum eves and soffits to choice of dry wall or panel save you future painting interior walls. please write for 48879 clarifies local and regional planning and zoning powers of localities and regions. We should accept a statute providing for problems. Well insulated to more information. a new state-level role in coordinating, guiding and -- in certain reduce your heating cost. COMPONENT OF unique areas of statewide importance -- c?ntrolling how Michigan's lands are to be used for the best Interest of the Modular Homes by Allied state's present and future generations of residents and tax- payers. PAGE 14 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS AUGUST 1, 1973 ()I'CU"I()~ T()VIC by KEN WILES TAXATION Manager Member Relations Taxation is the most important source of revenue Tax revenues must increase when public ex- property tax thereon to arrive at a percentage of the for the support of government activities. No formal penditures grow. Although, within limits, ex- tax which will be reimbursable. Here again the definition of the word, tax, is entirely adequate to penditures may be met temporarily by borrowing maximum claim has been limited to $500. express its meaning as it is used in government funds, tax revenues must eventually increase to The state will reimburse a blind persons entire finance today. The connotation of the term has repay borrowed funds and meet future enlarged property tax if their valuation as equalized is $3500 changed considerably during the long period of time outlays. Thus, a marked relationship in increased or below. If the equalized valuation is over $3500, in which governments have been financed primarily taxation and increased public expenditures is to be the state will reimburse the percentage obtained by payments classified by various writers as taxes. found. from the ratio of $3500 to their equalized valuation. In general, taxes are regarded as those com- In the area of federal, state and local finance, there The $500 maximum credit is in effect for this pulsory payments made to a public treasury in ac- has been a fairly definite and constant tendency provision of the law too. cordance with existing taws. These payments, or toward greater expenditures and increased taxes, This new tax law provides tax relief to all Michigan taxes, are levied on individuals and selected types of including many new types of taxes. This can be at- citizens regardless of whether they pay income taxes organizations with the knowledge that the proceeds tributed to demands on the part of the people for or not. Thus some citizens who have not filed state will be spent without special reference to those who more and better public services. income tax in the past because no taxes were due made the financial contributions. The insistence on the part of people for better will have to do so now in order to obtain their rebate. Significant events during the 20th century, and buildings, equipment and instruction has led to a While the provisions of the new tax relief program the effort by governments to alleviate human misery steadily growing total outlay for public education. will benefit all segments of the tax paying citizens of and stimulate economic activity, have caused public The automobile has brought revolutionary this state, it would appear that the reductions in tax expenditures to soar to astronomical heights. Thus, changes in the field of transportation and has in- revenue might have a price. Should the state's governments have found it necessary to collect vast creased the demand for costly highways. surplus funds be eliminated due to continued rise in amounts of taxes. As a result, people have become Humanitarianism is growing in this country. This is expend itures, some people advocate that some state acutely conscious of taxation and some of its con- revealed by increased public expenditures for fina nced programs will have to be eliminated or sequences. health, unemployment compensation, social security reduced. Like many other contemporary problems, those benefits, and other services of a similar nature. pertaining to revenue sources for the support of Another general reason for the upward trend of TAX REFORM public authority have a long history. public expenditures and taxes can be found in the Many people are concerned with property tax A cursory examination of the early world history growing interdependence and complexity of life. As reform because of its connection to public school reveals many references to what, in modern ter- more people seek to live within areas.limited in size, finance. At the last annual meeting of Michigan Farm minology, would be regarded as public revenue public regulation in one form or another becomes Bureau, the delegates went on record in expressing although perhaps not taxation phenomena. In the more necessary. the belief that the balancing of Michigan's tax Old Testament of the Bible, conflicts and hatreds are Aside from crises of national scope which have structure should result in every citizen paying his shown to have resulted from efforts of tribal leaders commanded so much attention in recent decades, fair share toward the support of his schools and to exact payments of various types from their the important reasons for the increase of taxes can other local and state government services. followers. During the period of antiquity, when the be traced to the growth of social, cultural, and They also said, "We believe that the following will Greek and Roman states were powerful, it was a economic services rendered by the various branches lead to a greater equity of taxation: common practice for conquerors to demand of government. -New sources of revenue for locaI units of IItribute" from the conquered and to support their government in order to relieve property taxes. positions financially in this way. MICHIGAN'S NEW TAX DEDUCTIONS -Improved assessment and equalization The early Middle Ages were characterized by the Changes in this state's tax law were enacted in procedures. domination of the church with its support coming May of this year. Nearly every taxpayer will benefit -Permit assessment and taxation of new property largely by way of somewhat arbitrary exactions from from the deductions in income tax liability and the for school purposes the first year it is built. the people. When feudalism prevailed, compulsory property tax relief program which becomes effective -New methods of financing school systems, with payments were made by the serfs to fina nce the January I, 1974. The Governor has stated that this strict limitations on property taxes for education feudal lords. After feudalism gave way, the ruling is " .... the largest and most comprehensive tax purposes. king, as "father of his people," found it expedient to reduction program in Michigan's history." -Use of the income tax as the major source of supplement his income by regular revenues from Included in the provisions of the tax relief program funds to finance schools. other sources. is a cut in the state income tax. This has been ob- --Assessment of agricultural land as farmland as In the 18th century writers developed a concrete ta ined by increasing the exemptions for the taxpayer long as it is so used instead of other possible theory of taxation, basing it upon their contention and dependents from the $1,200 per person to potential value. that agriculture was the only productive activity. $1,500. --Prevention of inequities arising fPOm special This school of thought advocated a single direct tax The major provision for property tax relief is the assessments on property that receives no benefit on the "product net" resulting from the pursuit of institution of the IIcircuit-breaker" system of from the project." agriculture. taxation. This system limits property tax based on a During the last session of the Michigan The political and economic revolutions of the late percentage of household income. Property tax in Legislature the elected lawmakers tackled the decades of the 18th century altered the practice of excess of 3-1/2% of the household income will be complicated issue of tax reform to no avail. Then in raising revenues obtained by the state chiefly for the eligible for a rebate in the amount of 60% of the November the people of the state were given the support of a favored few. difference. The tax rebate or credit cannot exceed opportunity to amend the Constitution to limit the The growth of constitutional governments and the $500, and the provisions of this part of the law heavy reliance on property taxes for the support of increasing tax burdens which have accompanied applies to farms. schools. For reasons known for sure only by those them tends to support the theory that taxation in- The application of this program to farms can be who voted, Proposal C was defeated. creases with liberty and that this is a universal law important to those owners of farms who do not live As a result the broad subject of tax reform has which knows no exception. In those countries which on them. The law provides that unoccupied land can again been one of the issues on the front burner in have adopted constitutional government, it has been receive the tax credit only if the gross receipts from this session of the Michigan Legislature. Several a common practice for the people, through their agriculture are greater than the household income formulas which would make property tax yields or chosen representatives, to demand more and more of the owner. school revenues more equal in all districts have public services. Constitutional governments have In the caseof senior citizens, a sliding scale will be been considered and warmly debated. But as this few financing alternatives, and must meet these used to determine the credit on property tax. Senior article is written, neither the House nor the Senate service demands by heavier taxation. citizens with income above $6,000 will receive a has been able to reach agreement on the con- This brief historical synopsis of the evaluation of credit equal to 100% of the property tax paid on troversial issue. (For a later report on the status of public revenues indicates taxation, in this modern their homestead in excess of 3.5% of their income. this legislation, read the "Capitol Report" located age, is a compulsory exaction which diverts a portion Senior citizens with incomes below $6,000 will elsewhere in this issue.) of the income of individuals into channels for receive credits of 100% of their property tax less a It has been estimated that this year the average common purposes. A tax is not a price paid for percentage of their income as follows: $5,000 to American will work 2 hours and 39 minutes of a something which is purchased. It is a one-sided $6,000, 3 %; $4,000 to $5,000, 2 %; $3,000 to regular working day to pay his or her total tax bill -- transfer and the individual taxpayer is not promised $4,000, 1%; and below $3,000, 0%. A $500 longer than he does to pay for his food, clothing and a fair return in services. maximum tax credit has been stipulated. (This shelter. Burdensome taxes have been with us longer The possible dangers of abusing the power of means that a Senior Citizen household with less than any of us can remember. And while many taxation are so great that understanding and than $3,000 annual income, whose taxes do not localities are taking steps to reduce the tax burden, caution are of paramount importance at all times. exceed $500 will pay no property tax.) the continued demand for government paid services Attempts have been made to protect the interests Several alternatives are contained in the tax relief are likely to continue to push up the tax load rather of taxpayers by establishing various forms of program which eligible veterans can use. They can t han reduce it. limitation on taxation and public indebtedness. use the regular deduction, the same as any other Thus, if we rely on the wisdom of tax authorities, Experience seems to indicate, however, that legally household, or, the senior citizens' provision if over the most which can be hoped for in the near future is created limitations seldom solve problems but tend 65. Also there is a special provision in the law based a slowing of the rate of increase in the tax load. instead to breed them. History records no adequate on the war in which a veteran fought and the amount Therefore, it might be a good idea if all of us, rather substitute for knowledge and good judgement on the. of his disability allowance. Under the special than complain of what is wrong, would set aside a part of those vested with the responsibility of provisions a formula has been devised using the few minutes each day to think of the happy and good drafting tax laws in a democratic country. valuation of the veteran's home and the amount of things which this country provides us. AUGUST 1, 1973 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 15 MAFC Topic Summary Discussion Topic Report Sheet Approves The Discussion Topic and Report Sheet for the discussion The Discussion Topic for June dealt with "Law En- '74 Program topic on the opposite page is furnished for use of community forcement." Tabulation of the responses to the questions in- group members who may wish to review it prior to their group dicate the need of support for and expressions of confidence to Mich igan Associat ion of meeting. If used by a Community Group, in lieu of report sheet law enforcement officers. Most groups expressed the thought, Farmer Cooperatives ap- furnished the Discussion Leader, please forward answers with that they do not condone the flaunting of laws in the search for proved their 1974 program minutes to Information and Public Relations Division, Michigan solutions to social and economic problems. July 17. MAFC 1974 Program Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 960, Lansing, Michigan 48904 on or Chairman, Otto Jury, manager, before September 1, 1973. 1. What do you believe to be the most important issue of law Buchannan Co-op, Inc., and order which concerns all of society? Tying officials' presented a list of activities for hands on enforcing existing laws; courts are too lenient; the new year. The program COMMUNllY FARM BUREAU lack of respect for law and order; morality; need for a more includes nine educational, ten Discussion Exercise and Report Sheet efficient judicial system. member services and August, 1973 legislative programs. 2. What measures do you believe should be taken for better New items added to the Community Farm Bureau County law enforcement? Speed up court procedures; the personal program was a Governor's commitment of 'private citizens and their support of law Breakfast for co-op leaders Please indicate the number of people taking part in this officers; judges who will enforce and back up law officers. during October "Co-op discussion less leniency on the part of parents. ' Month," Workshop for Vo-Ag Teachers, Development of a Director Board Book and TOPIC: TAXATION 3. What do you suggest parents do to discourage law breaking support for the 4-H Foun- and to develop respect for authority? If a child does wrong dation. To most people, taxes are an emotional issue and it is almost don't uphold him; start discipline at cradle age; give the The Council approved a new impossible toask a question such as, "Are assessments in your children a religious background; change the work laws so co-op logo to be used by community done in a fair and impartial manner?" without yout hs can have something to do. Michigan cooperatives and will arousing strong feelings. But try to lay them aside as you come be registered with the state. up with a group opinion concerning assessments in your / community. 4. What is being done in your local community to better the Our group feels that assessments in this community are: relationship between local law enforcement officers and the Fair.lydone: Usually right: Mixed up: general public? Local police cadet program in schools; Blue Cross Seldom right: election of a new judge; law officers speaking to youth and adult groups; police working with teenage groups. Rates Frozen Now, having decided what you think about assessments, let's look at the total tax picture to check how group members feel 5. Comments: Parents should be responsible for their Blue Cross and Blue Shield about taxing trends. This time write down the number of in- children; if present laws were fully enforced there would be subscribers to the Farm dividuals for each opinion: no need for new laws; American flag should be flown every Bureau group plan will not day, not just on special days. receive their annual rate Taxes are about right considering all of our needs: adjustment at the scheduled ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~time this year. Taxes are too low to meet present needs: Member subscribers usually Taxes are too high, we should cut back: + receive their advance rate notification in July, informing The government (local, state and federal) provides many of the adjustment effective services as the result of demands made by citizens. What August 20th. However, this government services could be reduced or eliminated entirely to OFFICE CALLS year, things are different reduce tax costs? List two: because of the price freeze announced by President Nixon, June 12th. QUESTION: How can I determine if my doctor is participating Subscribers will continue on with Michigan Blue Shield? their existing rates until the govern ment price control It is that time of the year when counties' policy development ANSWER: In most cases,the doctor will advise the patient of policy is either abandoned or committees are beginning to compile resolutions which will be his participating status. However, if a doctor is reluctant to altered. Blue Cross and Blue presented for consideration at the county annual meeting. reveal this information, the patient may contact any Blue Shield will provide immediate Therefore, let's spend a few minutes and list any recom- Cross or Blue Shield office for the same information. It notification of any change in mendations to your county policy development committee. should be noted that a doctor may participate in all benefit this procedure when the new Sendthe list to your county Farm Bureau secretary and she will procedures and accept the payment in full or have par- government policy is an- pass the recommendations on. ticipating status for only specific procedures. nounced. '---------------------------- FARM BUREAU ALL CLASSIFIED MARKET ADS MUST BE PREPAID 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 adver- 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, Lansing, MI 48904. Publisher reserves right to reject any advertising copy submitted. 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