MICHIGAN- FaRm FARM NEWS Bureau VOL. 53 NO.3 MAR Commissioners Retained A strange coalition of interest on how different groups can work Farm Bureau resolving in favor of group; helped Ionia County retain for a common cause as numerous both the ordinance and the com- four land use advocates on their associations countered the recall missioners while Pwight Nash, county board of commissioners push l?Y a citizens' group headed by head of the County Young Farmer despite the county's first recall bid an Ionia real estate broker. Committee, coordinated all Farm in history .. "Both Democrat and Republican Burea u support for the in- The vote, which stood in the parties were paying for the same cumbents. shadow of the' -race for Vice ad," Stencel said, "Everybody Yet, a broad spectrum of support President Gerald Ford's old really got going the last two or obviously is what caused the Congressional seat, showed the three days before the election." landslide. Expressing support of three Farm BUl"eau members, Hard campaigning may have the Commissioners were, the Ionia Edwin Nash of Clarksville, Burton been the reason such a foreboding Township Officers Association, the Stencel of Ionia and Maurice vote came in so strong for the Belding and Portland city councils, Gierman of Lake Odessa as well as coml!!.!ssioners. Ionia and Belding Chambers of Present rail system. D. Lee Satterlee of Belding, as two- Farm Bureau members Robert Commerce and State Represen- to- one favorites of the electorate. Janes and EFank Stout headed tative Stanley Powell (R-Ionia). DOT Rail P.lan Bipartisan support followed the commissioners who were brought into question for retaining an in- what'may have been the mqst effective pro-commissioner group, which called itself Citizens for Called Shocking terim zoning ordinance rather than Good Government. forcing the ordinance to a public "Those people really worked," vote of approval in its unmodified Stencel sa id. Shock was the word most Michigan Department of state. Farm Bureau members showed speakers at a public hearing Agriculture (MDA) indicated The campaign to- keep the support for commissioners from used last month to describe that the Upper Peninsula would commissioners was a good !esson the early going with the County their reaction to the report of be a virtual write off. the US Department of Trans- Forest Sttanc.l of the MDA March 15 Deadline Burton Stencel portation (DOT> concerning noted, .'Barry County would be rail service in Michigan and the witho~t service under the plan, surrounding area. and the Thumb would be in for Fuel Orders The report, published in early trouble since they have no Class February, considered jl per A roads to bear needed traffic." cent of the track in Michigan to But Newkirk said that the be in questionable cir- report was in no way an en- cumstances, since it only bears forceable document, but would Farmers who want the fuel they Items that should be included in three per cent of the state's rail serve as a starting point from will need when they need it this the special orders are the amounts traffic. The track in question which hearings will be held on year should order it through their of fuel used in 1972and '73 which serves 130 of Michigan's 330 the subject, starting March 4 in local distributor by March 15. can be gained from distributor's grain elevators and a number of Detroit. Special forms FEO-17 for this records and projected small businesses. These hearings are scheduled purpose are available at local requirements for 1974. Agricultural Stabilization and Special booklets to help farmers Maurice Gierman The need for pick-up and to end in May when the US delivery service to facilities on Railway Administration, a Conservation Services (ASCS) figure their future needs are these lines is brought into doubt quasi-governmental agency, offices. available at the ASes offices. by this report, which is the first will begin to work on a Farmers have been granted 100 Should farmers ha ve any trouble railway appraisal under new preliminary system plan which per cent of'their current needs for getting distributors to accept their rail way reo r ga n i z a ti 0 n will be evaluated in more public fuel but the forms are necessary so orders, Renke suggests that a call legislation passed in January hearings before it IS submitted local distributors can have the to ASes offices for .help should be and, therefore, makes them for approval to Congress in necessary amounts of fuel on hand the first recourse. It is possible prime candidates for aban- June 1975. at the right times, said Edwin that if farmers changed their dooment or subsidy plans. The DOT report came to its Renke of the Michigan Department suppliers in 1973, they may be "Part of the idea of the new conclusions through gauging of Agriculture (MDA). - required to return to their 1972 rail system is to shift the burden 1972rail traffic and applying the - Early reports from the MDA distributors. of subsidy from the rail com- 34 car per mile per year for- indicated that only those farmers , planning on using more fuel than Edwin Nash panies to the Federal Govern- mula th-at was recently upheld ment," Jim Newkirk of the in court. they did in 1972 need fill out the But FPC's Bill Rockey said this Federal Railway Ad~ Rail lines which had traffic special forms. But Bill Rockey of would be a last step. ministration (a division of below this level were brought Farmers Petroleum Cooperative "On the practical side, if your DOT) told businessmen into question, but Newkirk CFPC) says that procedures have present dealer has fuel enough for gathered at the hearing. admitted that the hasty study been updated and all farmers are his customers, he will try and keep If all rail lines brought into considered only the number of urged to make the special orders. them." Rockey said. question were eliminated, cars that actually traveled over MDA's Henke warns that far- "The government doesn't want however, it would leave the track and not the number of mers should fill in a form for each to disrupt normal business prac- Traverse City and the bulk of cars requested by elevators or supplier they have. tices," he added. the Northeastern Lower other businesses on the lines. "If you ha ve one supplier for If problems persist after calling Peninsula without rail service diesel fuel and one for gasoline," the ASes, farmers may contact the ..... and Porter Barnett. of the (Continued on page 3) he said, "then you should fill in a Fuel Crisis Center in Lansing at separate form for each." 517-373-8250. D. Lee Satterlee pAGE 2 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS MARCH 1,1974 , Members Should Work In Own Backyard , Some Farm Bureau members must think their organization is like Or is the organization also one that is involved in solving the problems Frankenstein's monster-formed by its creators (the members), but of the community? then existing on its own strength. Lansing and Washington are only a part of the battlefront for Farm It isn't so. Not only in our formation, but our every action as an Bureau. On-going battles such as those involving land use, will be organization originates from the local level. Our policy orginates from decided at ~e homefront. Hats off to those of you who have recognized the grass roots, and our strength in obtaining policy goals depends that the action is in your own backyard and have acted accordingly. entirely on the fact that we have a large, active and thriving mem- Most citizens shirk their responsibilities by ignoring issues until the bership which we represent. - problems reach crisis proportions. I know, after experience as President of the Michigan Farm Bureau But we at Farm Bureau can avoid this short-coming because we have organization, that if it doesn't happen at the local level, it doesn't always been an issue-oriented rather than crisis~riented organization. happen at all .. We have consistently shown solid judgment and have been proven Our democratic, grass roots structure which allows the local people to right time and again as an organization. It's not e~sy to be right, con- speak through their state organization, has been the key to our success. sistently. The reason we have been is that the people who ar-e most af- fected by an issue<:an be heard and listened to is Farm Bureau. I've been talking about local people supporting our large It has been said that everyone is liberal about an issue when it doesn't organization, but this shouldn't cloud the ,fact that our county concern themselves. If this is true, we had better be sure to tend to our organizations should be deeply involved in local issues and events. own business diligently so that we maintain control over our own If we as Farm Bureau members are not actively involved in local destinies. We can do this most effectively by being involved on tl1e affairs, we are losing out to ourselves. What other group in your county homefront. / has better resources or organizational structure to be in a leadership Land use planning, transportation, farmland assessment and en- position? vironmental control are just a few of the issues that. must be reckoned But what is the image of your county Farm Bureau? Is it an office- with and decided in each locality. 4 down the street where fanners pay insurance? - A store where you get They can be reckoned with most effectively by active farmers in supplies? A community group that meets once a month to play cards? active commtmity' groups and active county Farm Bureaus. Iun~e r 1ine s: TERRY CANUP MICHIGAPI FARM NEWS DONNA. Relatively Speaking Americans may well be in the Here's one--INTERESTING. Human Relations the Key position of looking down their own 000000 that one really makes my "EVERY ISSUE They go about their various Several Y,ears ago, I felt com- noses today. We wail about our teeth hurt. How would you women ON pelled to record my experience programs with a dedication and attitudes, our corruption and our like it if you tried to put yourself THE ISSUES" with our blind and mentally enthusiasm that's contagious and ecOl\omy .. together with some special clothes retarded dauJdlter. It seemed to be motivating. But there's not a trace Frank Conway, however, wants and make up and then meet your something 1 had to do, for of jealousy or possessiv~ess in- desperately to come to America. husband at the door to have him wha tever reason ... volved in "their" projects. Imagine -- to this "awful, say, off the cuff, "You look in- The Michigan FARM NEWS is published monthly. on the first day. by First attempts at this self- depressed" country of ours. Mr. teresting today." It's the people they help who are the Michigan Farm Bureau Information appointed task ended in frustrating . important - not their own glory or Conway, 32, of Yorkshire, England What an insult! Ant farms and Division. atlts publication office. 109N. failure and I turned to a trusted recently wrote the Farm News museums are interesting. What Lafayette St .• Greenville. Michigan. credit lines. That's why they're so Editorial arMlgeneral offices at 7:r13 friend and counselor for help. lOYOll happy for the involvement of other asking that we place an ad for him people really mean when they say West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. are not allowing your readers near groupi, such as Farm Bureau. so someone may sponsor him by something is interesting is "1 can't Michigan 48904. Post Office Box 960. the child/' he said. "Any glimpse assuring him of some work when think of anything better to say Telephone. Lansi~ 485-8121.Exlensioo 228. Sum.criptioo price. sot per year. we get of her is clouded by your Raising seeing eye dogs, he comes over. He quickly adds, about it." Esta»lished January 13. 1923. Secood own emotions. Become her; put on collecting eyeglasses to be sent "We can pay our way over," People thought the energy crisis Class Postage paid at Greenville • . a blindfold, get down on the floor overseas, :sightmobiles, screening referring to himself, his wife and was interesting when gas was 30 Michigan. EDITORIAL: Editors: Terry W. and feel the textures of her world. pre-schoolers for eye diseases two small children. cents a gapon. Now it's a problem. Canup arMlDonna WilbEl' Only then will we know the child." . white cane information signing up It seems the problem for Conway The other word that is fighting OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; I did just that -- for several hours donors for cornea transplants - all President. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia. R- is that the US ~overnment won't for the top spot on my "Most Hated I : Vice President. Dean Pridgeon. on a lonely afternoon. In t~tal these projects offer opportunities allow him to come over and Words" list is ACTIVITIES. Montgomery. R-I: Administrative darkness, I got to know my child, for self-satisfying involvement. speculate for work without a trade. Remember when you were small Director. Robert Braden. Laming. DIRECTORS: District 1. Arthur and to let others know her. L' C1 b ff. Is . ked So, with skills as a gardener and and you were at a picnic? The Bailey. Schoolcraft; District 2. Dean Why am I sharing this very "Ions u" 0 lCla piC an experience with horses and various adults would come up to you and Pridgeon. Montganery. R-I; District 3. personal experience with you? easy ~ouch . when they drew ~e livestock, Conway hopes to become say .lCome on, we've got some Andrew Jackson. Howell. R-l: District 4. Elton R. Smith. Caledonia. R-l; District Because I'd like you to go through for an mtervlew recently, but I m part of America's new agricultural activities for you." 5. William Spike. Owosso. R-3; the same experience -- put on a sure.many Farm Bureau members age it seems. You would think to yourself, "I District 6; Jack Laurie. Cass City. R-3: blindfold and live in darkness for are 10 the same ca~egory. Farm District 7. Kenneth Bull. Bailey. R-l; Right now, Conway and his don't want to do any activities. I District 8. Larry DeVuysl. Ithaca. R-4; even one hour. people are compaSSIOnate people family live in a country where wanna play baseball and tag. What District 9. Donald Nugent. Frankfort. R- Then--take off the blindfold, who respond to the. needs of others. laborers work only three days a do ya warina ruin my day with I; District 10. Richard Wieland. thank God for your sight and the They. also recogmze that hum~n ElJswcrth. R-I; District 11. Franklin week and inflation o~t jumps the activities for?" Schwiderson. Dafter. 'sight of your children, and call rela~lons are the best. pub.hc US rate by Z7percent. Considering So there would be the folks DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter your local Lions Club. Ask them relations a~ ~hat partlcl~tIon this we can feel lucky and proud carrying off a screaming, kicking Fratun. Frankerunuth: James L. Sayre. what you can _do to help those and leadershIp ~n worthy proJec!S Belleville; Gerald Eleooaum. Owen- tha t the US economy is doing as kid to the dreaded activities. dale. already in darkness and to save the are . b~nefIclal to their well as it is. I'm sure that many of us react to WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. precious sight of others. orgaruzation. Richard WielarMl.Ellsworth. R-t. American farmers can feel this word much the same way after FARM BUREAU YOUNG FA~ Sightsaving and giving a new Mothers should be especially especially proud for being such a we have grown. If someoody asks MERS: Wayne Wood. Marlette. lease on life to the blind have long responsive to these opportunities. big part of this relatively healthy you to a party you probably say been projects of Lions Club Blindness is not something that POSTMASTER: In using form 3579. situation. "grea 1." But if they ask you to an mail to: Michigan Farm News. 7373 members. only happens to "other people" ... Frank Conway se~ms to believe activity, you proably act as though West Saginaw Highway. Lansing. in our future, if he plans on you didn't hear them or say you Michigan 48904 bringing his eight year-old boy and will be busy watching educational Second class postage • one year-old daughter over to start TV tha t night. paid at It's something to think about Greenvi1Je, Michigan a new life. We should believe in our future, too. when you plan Farm Bureau + + + + + ... er ... uh .. events. Whatever After working and studying as a you do, don't invite people to ac- FaRm., FREE AD SPACE FOR word manipulator for a few years, tivities. You'd be surprized just I have found some words that how popular Sesame Street really Bureau sound like squeaky chalk to me. is. FARM BUREAU MEMBERS Nixon Thanked by Member' Starting with this issue of Farm News, MFB members are entitled to a free 25 word classified as per month. The Farm News reaches nearly 62,000 farm families in Michigan each month. Ads will be WHY CAN'T WE BE" THANK- tlefields, from behind prison walls, have written our great President, limited to one per month per membership. FUL? from hospitals. Now when our boys thanking him for the life they are Just send ads on a postcard to: Michigan Farm News, 7373 W. For over 50 years our boys have lea ve high school they can plan now able to live on their own shores Saginaw, Lansing, Michigan 48904. Ads should be received by the had to serve their country, on their education. go into business, in the greatest country in the 20th of each month to be included in the next edition. battle fields all over the world. And get married, without the fear of world? Members who wish to advertise goods from retail outlets or then we get a President who brings being drafted and perhaps crippled Mrs. Ernest Larson dealerships should seek paid ads. our boys home from the bat- or come home in a box. How many Fremont. Michigan MARCH 1, 1974 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 3 Rates Cut Due to Energy Crisis Farm Bureau Insurance Group for the individual car owner will several more months to determine companies have announced they depend on the number of miles if reduced speeds and travel would will reduce automobile insurance driven weekly and other affect claim costs. rates this spring because of classification factors. Mileage will Nile L. Vermillion, Executive decreased tra vel and highway be determined by means of a mail Vice President, indicated there is speeds resulting from gasoline survey. which will be distributed to ample evidence that claim costs shortages. members this month. will decline as a result of gasoline Premiums will be lowered an Low mileage drivers will benefit shortages, adding that both ac- average of 10 percent per vehicle most from the new classification cident frequency alld severity on all major coverages ranging system; high mileage drivers the could be affected. from collision to resi~ual liability. least. A small number of high He noted ft was difficult to assess mileage commuters will receive a the ultima te effects of lower speeds The premium cuts will begin minor rate increase. and reduced travel. "We are with policy renewals mailed after Farm Bureau's affiliates are the convinced, however, that accident May 1 and will mean a decrease of first insurers to recognize that fuel costs are on the way down, and we $3 million in premiums to the shortages will reduce highway intend to pass the anticipated companies this year. accidents and auto rates. Other savings on'to our policyholClers. We The adjustment will lower rates State and National insurance see no reason to wait," he added. for approximately 90 percent of companies have adopted a wait- Key factors in Farm Bureau's Farm Bureau Mutual and Com- and-see attitude regarding effects decision were reduced highway munity Service Insurance auto of the energy crisis, cautioning travel, the recent drop in Michigan FBIG Vice President Niles Vermillion announces premium cuts. polic~holders. Premium savings consumers that it would take traffic deaths, increased car pool use and pending legislation which would set speed limits at 55 mph. Submit Protest The auto rate adjustment will apply to all major policy Amid claims from American -Bakers, that the US will soon run out of wheat, MFB President Elton Smith informed Secretary Agriculture Earl Butz on Feb. 26 of Rail 'Plan Scary coverages, including Collision, Comprehensive, Personal Injury Protection, Property Protection Insurance and Residual Liability. The latter three coverages are thC!t there are not enough grain (Continued from page 1) mandatory for all drivers under buyers in Michigan. Michigan's No-Fault law. In a telegram to Butz, Smith Farm Bureau Insurance Group, said, "Grain elevators in Michigan "This is the sort of in- Newkirk emphasized that a reorganization action for the the State's seventh largest insurer are withdrawing all bids to buy formation we want to get in peared down rail system was railroads was termed, the of private passenger vehicles, is a wheat from farmers. these hearings," Newkirk said. not necessarily a detriment to "Northeast railway crisis," 62 multiple line organization com- "This action was taken because He added that changes in farmers. He pointed to a per cent of the trackage that posed of four companies: Farm grain elevators are unable to sell traffic needs since 1972 would University study in Iowa which could be a bandoned is in the Bureau Mutual, Farm Bureau soft wheat supplies' already on have to be brought to light in the claimed that farmers could four-state region of Dlinois, Life, Community Service In- hand. hearing process. save money by trucking grain to Ohio, Indiana and Michigan. surance and Community Service "Bakers have stopped pur- Contrary to popular belief, re- rail subterminals. "This is just Substantial amounts of Acceptance Company. The firms chasing flour in anticipation of an organization plans do not stop an example' of how a Michigan grain, especially for are represented by 419 agents export embargo." with bankrupt railroads. Other cooperative effort can benefit export, is sent through Ohio to operating from 47 outstate service Past statements by USDA railways can.participate in the everyone," he said. the Northeast and predominant offices. spokesman indicate they recognize plan, and circumvent normal amounts of Michigan soybeans The .adjustment is subject to such ploys. - abandonment procedures, Though the railway problem are sent west through Indiana approval by Michigan's Insurance Newkirk said. which 'prodded Congress into and lllinois for processing. Bureau. WHO IS NO. I? FaRmr1 Bureau MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU - - BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF MICHIGAN J There's no question about it! When it comes to strength, satisfaction, security, and service, YOU come out ahead by being a member of this team. "Answer Challenge Today" is the Farm Bureau's official theme for 1973-74. Why not let Farm Bureau answer one of the greatest challenges facing you today - the need for modern, dependable health care protection - by ioining Michigan's No.1 health care protection plan. BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF MICHIGAN OPEN ENROLLMENT MA-RCH 1 TO MARCH 15 PAGE 4 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS MARCH 1,1974 CAPITOL REPORT ~ ?~~~~"M ..~, .. Robert E. Smith ./ ; I ,I' ~ 1 ' , ; Tax Review The Senate substitute for H. 4244 This is a major difference from passed the Senate by an over- other states that use a "rollback" . whelming bi-partisan vote of 28-4. They require payment of the • The landowner may apply for The bill is now on the calendar in "rollback tax" when the farm termination of the ten-year period. the House of Representatives and comes out of the program. This is If permitted, a penalty lien of 25 is slated for action by March 12. often a hardship. percent of the land's market value During that period, it is expected Other Provisions: plus repayment of the tax credits is that amendments will be made to imposed. The lien is subject to an Michigan legislators took notice of Farm Bureau members by at- the bill. It is expected, however, annual interest rate of six percent ,tending regional legislative seminars held a few blocks from the capitol • Owners of land under an compounded until paid. that final legislation will apply to in Lansing. agreement are required to notify Rep. Donald Van Singel (R-Grant) top left. Rep. Bela Kennedy (R- both agricultural and "open the state or local governing body space" land. • In the event of death or per- Bangor) top right. Sen. L. Harvey Lodge (R-Waterford) bottom left and three years prior to the Sen. Gary Byker (R-Hudsonville) were only a few who attended. There has been tremendous agreement's tennination date. of manent disability, provisions are Those attending included Sen. Harry DeMaso (R-Battle Creek), a interest in this legislation by their future plans with respect to made for release of the property fanners and other landowners. during the contra5=tual period primary force behind the new farmland assessment bill. the land. There have been several meetings without penalty. throughout the state sponsored by local Fann Bureau leaders to •. During agreement the term of the cities. villages, Under this program, government and schools would not local FBIG ~Celebrates discuss the legislation in detail. As townships. counties. or other lose revenue as the tax relief to the a result, there ha ve also been many requests to repeat in this , column an outline of the legislation governmental agencies cannot farmland owner would be a refund impose special a~sessments for from the state. If this bill passes, its provisions Silver Anniversary sewers. water. lights. or non-farm as it P.Clssedthe Senate and as it drainage. could be used by any farmer. It Statewide distribution of an applies to the agricultural would mean that farmers, historical booklet and illustrations provisions of the bill. The following • In the event the laud or a especially in a,reas where entitled "Early Indians of is a brief outline of the legislation portion of it is condemned for other assessments are based on values Michigan" will mark the March 7, in its present fonn: use, the development rights on the for development purposes; will not Silver anniversary of Farm The program is voluntary. It is condemned land revert back to the be forced to sell because they can't Bureau Insurance Group (FB IG). up to the individual landowner to owner without penalty or rollback. pay the taxes. The study, "dedicated to the decide whether he wishes to apply Michigan Indian: first Americans, for the benefits of the act. Application to the program is Fertilizer Types That is first farmers, first ecologists of- - " , Michigan lands and waterways", made to a "local governing body" features the Huron, Ottawa, osition for the first time in place of livestock of the Cherry Administration Board. George Stover, who is president of the Berrien Co. Farm Bureau grows peaches, plums, red tart representative Lyle Cunningham. cherries, apples and tomatoes on Whi~~<;::s~re~~:~%y ~~ii1mi~;M~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1~~~~@~~1~~~~~;~~~~~1~~~~~1~1~1~;~;~;~;~;~1r~1r~;1;~;t~1f~r~ :0':, P.C. Morrison produces a wide variety of fruits in his operation his farm. ~~~t~ Stover is on the processing Apple the 11board members the previous including apples, plums, peaches Michigan Marketing Outlook. year, placed five men on the board and sweet and red tart cherries. Marketing Committee of MACMA and the Processing Apple Advisory at the Grand Rapids gathering. Morrison is also a stockholder in a Committee to the AAMA. (Continued from page 6) general shortage of canned fruits, Three board members represent processing co-op which rests on his Lowell Eisenmann, a former Livestock feeders need to purple plums are now being used the fruit division as opposed to one acreage. examine the recent hog and cattle .as a substitute fruit on many Lenawee Co. Farm Bureau the previous session, while The new director was formerly president, is a beef cattle feeder inventory reports and draw their 'menus. The USDA also purchased livestock and vegetable divisions the chairman of the MACMA Red own conclusions from them. There ~ large quantity of plums last fall and cash crop producer. Eisen- retained one representative each. Tart Cherry Division, and chair- mann will share his new duties appea~ to be some real questions for distribution. The move which was made in man of the Michigan contingent to and inconsistencies in these Peaches and pears are being with his responsibilities as recognition of the large mem- the American Agricultural chairman of the MACMA Order reports as they relate to the allocated on a tight market basis. - market prices, etc. Another con- Prices have moved upward to Buyer Operating Committee. cern is an apparent conservative reflect the s4Pply situation which Other changes on the board will consumer approach to buying is below last year across the board. see fruit grower Donald Barden meat. The supply of apple products and Dairyman Jack Laurie leaving as Kenneth Bull moves from his Dairy from applesauce to apple juice is former position as a representative Milk's increase in both price to down substant.ially from a year from the MFB Board of Directors the producer, and of course cost to ago. Prices and product movement to a slot as representative of the the consumer was essential. The tIave been at record levels. Some Fruit Growet Division. milk price increase of 60 cents cwt. products have been selling so well A bid to give the Michigan is needed to offset the gradual, but that processors are considering the Certified Fann Markets (MCFM> steady increases in production possibility of processing more of a representative from on the costs. Most, if not all costs of the apples in storage. Outlook for MACMA Board failed as an production have risen and it ap- 1974 is exce}!_entat present. amendment calling for two pears they will continue to rise. Vegetables representatives from the fruit The demand for and the supply of Production of asparagus in division and one each from most items will push the price Michigan is expected to increase livestock, vegetable and MCFM. higher. From plow points to again in 1974 due to the new divisions was changed to the protein supplement the factors of plantings of recent years. The present structure. production are much in dem~nd, added production is needed to tak~ The position that there were too and relatively short in supply. advantage of 'a national-regional few MCFM members to warrant a Milk production in Michigan was shift as Eastern States production special position for them prevailed 4 percent less in January of 1974 continues to decline and grain NEW DIRECTORS. Lowell Eisenmann , for the perhaps due to greater world steady, and possibly increase some continues to move upward. for cattle and sheep were released marketing year 1973-74 shows feed demand. over the next year. Processing potato contract from the b~n imposed on their use grain supplies were about 238 Fruit values continue to move upward to by the US Court of Appeals. The million tons below the levels of Petroleum 1971-72 and 1972-73. With export Tart cherries are the shortest the $4.00 to $4.50 per cwt. level. ruling has led to confusion with For agricultural use fanners are supply since 1967. Prices are at Frozen french fry inventories are plans now being made by DES sales expected to continue near allowed and will receive 100 per- record levels. A good sized crop in 10-15percent below last year, with- ac- tight through June, and Michigan reached an allocation-type basis, cepts the first government accreditation for commodity bargaining in If prospects remain bright for fanners will not get all the fer- ttJe United States. - due in part to the oi~ derivatives feed producers. government tilizer they demand for this being used as a stage in the process The accreditation is presented by the marketing and bargaining economists feel there should be planting season. board's consulting administrator Frank Owen in the presence of board of chemical manufacturing. little reluctance to draw down There appears to be adequate However, Farm Bureau Services member John Babcock. stocks in August and September. supplies of most seed for corn, ;\IACMA divisions have also applied for accreditation to bargam tor feels it will be able to supply all of perhaps to near or below January soybeans, dry beans, legumes. and its fanners with their chemical kraut cabbage growers and producers of potatoei for freezing. prices. grasses, although seed is much needs througA .June. PAGE 8 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Applications for the Marge Karker - Fann Following the luncheon, the FB Women Bureau Scholarship, given to a Fann Bureau toured the Register of Deeds office at the college student each year, must be into the courthouse. MFB Women's Dept. by April 6. The commissioners indicated they would The Women's Scholarship Committee will like a "repeat," and the board chainnan award $400 in scholarship funds to a student suggested, "We hope you Fann Bureau or students attending Michigan State Women will make this an annual event." University who study agriculture or related + + + + -to fields. Three MFB Women have been chosen to Applicants can be males or females who travel to the shores of the Indian 6Cean at have completed three tenns of college work Perth, Western Australia to attend a world- or one year of Ag Tech and ha ve"9 minimum wide country women's conference this Oc- 2.6 scholastic average. tober. The student should be prepared to show Faye Gribbell of Engadine, Jeanne Spark-s financial need and must have a financial of Cassbpolis and Martha Thuemmel of Port statement filed with the Scholarship office at Austin were selected on Feb. 5 by the MFB MSU. Women's Committee to go to the sunny state. Areas of study that are acceptable under capital to attend the 14th meeting of the the scholarship plan are, food science, Associated Country Women of the World. marketing, and packaging, as well as Ag The organization with 65member-countries Tech, horticulture, veterinary or human is intimately tied to the United Nations and its medicine and agriculturally related teaching, UNICEF, UNESCO and F AO organizations. journalism and leadership training. The 10-day meeting will probably focus on Applications are available through the projects for raising nutritional levels of diets around the world. - Bu%%in' Women's Dept., Michigan Farm Bureau, P.O. Box 960, Lansing, Michigan 48904. Alternates chosen for the trip were: + + + + + Claudine Jackson of Howell and Lillian ~ buzz se~siODc~ncerning who will control agriculture in the future i~ Wonsey of Mt. Pleasant. gomg heavily durmg the Young Farmers Conference near Flint last + + + + + month. Smart women in Tuscola County. The The District I and II Women's Holiday county FB Women used their cooking skills Camp has been set for April 3 and 4 at and arts of conversation to make the county Dowling, Michigan - just north of Battle board of commissioners feel at home when Creek. they invited them to a home-cooked meal. - The two-day program at the Wesley Woods Their invitation was unanimously accepted. Camp offers something for all who will at- "This is something different," said one Jend, including a tour of the Kellogg Cereal commissioner. "Usually, when we get an production facility, a seminar on education of invitation like this, somebody wants unwed mothers, a discussion of illternational something and we have to pay for our own trade and a Food and Drug Administration meaL" presentation relating to a most important There were no speeches, but dinnertime topic these days -- consumerism. _ conversation covered a wide range of topics Overnight accomodatians and meals for the Homefront including county zoning, a county landfill program, lasting from 10a.m. Wednesday to 3 project and a controversy with a Probate p.m. Thursday, will cost only $10.50. Judge. County President LeRoy Schluckbier ReservatioJl~ must be in by March 'Z1 welcomed the group and presented a brief to: Mrs. James Sparks, R No.4 Cassopolis look-at Tuscola County",agriculture. Michigan 49031. " Question: .Is it -true. that lightning from The group sent a resolution to th~ County Fann Bureau Center will strike community commissioners accusing elected officials of group; that choose to discuss a local issue negligence and questioning the county's rather than the Discussion Topic that comes projects. in the Fann News. The Traverse City area group recom-_ Answer: .Absolutely not. We at FB C•. nter mended that millage in all county think the locality is the Community Group's municipalities and school districts be responsibility and it is the group's duty to reduced, and that the appraisal firm, in- discuss local issues and then be heard. cluding the township assesSor, hold meetings Anyway, the energy shortage has sharply to answer questions from property owners curtailed our lightning-making capa- regarding their new assessments. bilities ... "After reviewing as many new assessments As a matter of fact, a fainJ: cheer can be as possible, we are convinced that there are heard from the halls of the FB Center for a as many discrepancies in property evaluation group that did discuss something besides the as before the county-wide appraisal," group January Discussiop Topic of Probate. chairman Edward Melichar said. In Washtenaw County the Short Hill Pleasant Valley Group memoers told Community Group discussed the need for commissioners to find out where revenue additional classrooms in their local school. sharing fund should be spent by holding Michigan Contingent The superintendent of the school board had plblic meetings throughout the county and thereby "avoid the use of monies for political On hand for a Regional meeting concerning Brucellosis eradication in asked for a delegate and alternate delegate to represent the Fann Bmeau group on an advantages. tt Illinois last month, were, faces challenges of his right to operate his centennial dairy farm. operation. factories take large amounts of "I haven't gotten one letter of acreage. support from a fanner and I've The huge Chrysler complex that became the city of Sterling Heights "This is good farmland," Pruehs hopes to join a community group gotten 50 from city people," started operations in 19.65,lies less and Pruehs found it necessary to bewailed, pointing south across the so he can talk over problems with Pruehs said. than a mile away from Pruehs' sell hi~ land. expanse of residential sub- other farmers and hopefully count The 47 year-old farmer has stood farm. But according to Pruehs divisions. "It's all flat land that's on their support should another Pruehs, who unwillingly became alone against the sprawling Detroit that's not the worst of it. good to work. They ought to build situation like the present one arise !l city resident, feels the city suburbs' since the mid-'SO's when "Some oeoDle say 'bring in the their factories in the hills where its again. government has zoned and taxed Farmer unity plus legislation to speculator~ began grappling for factories to help pay the taxes'," rocky." him into a corner. help farmers survive property pieces of the 80 acres his grand- he said, "but that's the worst mistake you can make. When the If Pruehs has gained anything taxes could make a brighter future father first tilled in 1873. "There needs to be some ruling factories come in, the homes start from the state on how to tax far- from his ordeal, it is a sense for for Pruehs and other farmers who The family held on to all the land farmer unity .. until 1968 when they released 60 going up everywhere." mers," he said, obviously having are confronted with suburbanites acres that rest across the road. In the four years following lost his trust in local government. "We've got to get together and who want to be in the country but "What can you do?" Pruehs Chrysler's arrival, a Ford factory "We can't allow cities to shove talk about these things," he said. are offended by the farmers who said. "You have to have money to was built, Sterling. Township fanners out." Upon moving to Armada, he ha ve Iived there before them. FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS. Cattle on the Preuhs Dairy Farm feed in- the shadow of roWS of houses in Sterling Heights, Mich. Preuhs claims more neighbors side with him than aga1nst him on the "right to INTEREST ON DEBENTURES 5-10-15 year maturity operate" issue. 7% 5 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase A Thousand Big 7%% 10 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase 8% 15 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase Ones for Rustlers 7~% 10 Year Maturity $1,000.00 Minimum Purchase 8%% 15 Year Maturity $5,000.00 Minimum Purchase Caught in Interest paid annually on September 1st. The purchaser to be offered the option to receive their interest in quarterly payments on September 1st, December 1st, March 1st, and Mac-Luce County June 1st. I nterest would start the date of purchase. This is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation to buy these A $1,000reward for information r securities. The offering is made only by the prospectus. \ leading to arrest and conviction of ca ttle rustlers was raised through Mac-Luce County Farm Bureau H 1I I I -------------------------- Clip and mail this coupon to: Mr. C. A. Morrill FaRmr1 I lea dership a £ter a' February Farm Bureau Services, Inc. I rustling incident. I P. O. Box 960 BUreaU I Soup Line FAIIM -...... _ INC I Lansing, Michigan 48904 I Mac-Luce County Farm Bureau I I would like ill copy of the prospectus and a call by ill regis. 1 member Max MacCanly had a beef Free bean soup proved an effective drawing card for local and city I tered sales agent, I slaughtered and stolen from his people at the Port Austin W~nter Carnival Feb. 4-10. The Huron County I Name barnyard Feb. 2. Farm Bureau Women distributed 1,000 sen'ings of free bean soup from I Road RFO No. _ their product promotion trailer which overlooked the game arena. The I City _ County _ soup was prepared by the women from 100 Ibs. of beans contributed by Informants are asked to notify the :\lichigan Bean Association for the successful commodity I Phone _ I local sheriffs or state police. promotion . ..--------------------------- PAGE 14 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS MARCH 1, 1974 The Missing Farm 8ur~au link Someone wrote a verse which ended with two lines in a They agreed that the missing key to success was the many things by pooling our abilities, our resources and form of a question: fact that the MEMBER was not IN the program. He was our efforts which would be impossible for one of us to do "Are you an active member, too remote-too far away. He needed an opportunity to alone." or do you just belong?" _ help build, a chance to pin-point the problems needing But that power has not been tapped to the full extent. It This is a good question lor Farm Bureau members to action and a part in suggesting how to tackle them. can come only when the mutual efforts of all members are cnnsider. It is a personal question. In the case of Michigan Leaders of the cOUlJtyFarm Bureaus were called to a constructively given to the support of common purposes Farm Bureau the way has been opened for active member' meeti~ to dis<;uss ~ proposition and they reacted with and objectives. participation. Let's examine it. enthusIasm. In a voluntary organization, the member is never forced Keith Tanner had found a possible "pattern" which An Effective Force to undertake an active role. But a clear-cut avenue for could be used. he had spent the year of 1935in Denmark. Community Farm Bureau Groups could be a more member participation should be provided. Rural people in Denmark organized themselves into potent force in helping county Farm Bureaus build active Personal Responsibility Required neighborhood groups (Volkgruppen). These ~roups ~ot and beneficial programs in the county. 'The groups are Community Farm Bureau Groups were developed , together regularly to discuss and- plan how to handle units of the county Farm Bureau which sponsors them, nearly 40years ago. They provide a direct opportunity for _ their farm and community problems by joint action. The and in which the groups members hold their basic members to take an active role in building Farm Bureau. county Farm Bureau leaders of Michigan decided "This memberships. But the opportunity must be gained personally to yield fits our needs". The actual working relationship in program planning any benefit. The need of opportunity must fall on fertile They went to work in four counties in 1936. Twenty should be much closer between the local grQUP and the ground. The member must desire to make his Community Farm Bureau Groups were founded that county organization than it -is between the group and organization strong to serve the needs of the membership year. Members were enthusiastic about it. Organization Michigan Farm Bureau. Neglect or misunderstanding of as a whole. work spread to other counties of Michigan. Other state this may prevent it from functioning as it should. Let's look ourselves in the eye. Even where-lllembers Farm Bureaus watched, and came to discover how _ Perhapi county Fann Bureau boards of directors may decide to organize a Community Farm Bureau Michigan was getting the members into the act. should invite the chainnen of their groups to meet with Group, it may yield little to them or to the growth of their Voluntary them three or four times a year to propose and help organization. There must be strong purposes, a real vision Organization work was carried on by the, county Farm develop county programs of action. of what the group is and may accomplish, if it is to play Bureau. They offered to help members organize, but the Such programs might work on'many things - mem- any vital part in helping the organization to achieve goals decision must come from the members. Members had to bership, better marketing and bargaining -activities, desired by the members. decide that the idea was good.,-ilnd provide responsible health and safety projects, community improvement Without such qualities to bring life to the groups, its local leadership to bring the group to life and spark its projects, civic affairs of the county and united action on meetings may prove sterile of any real accomplishment. program. local and county government problems, etc. Opportunity is there -- but it dies easily unless it is Benefits _ H an effective relationship of this kind were developed, nourished by personal responsibility. This, then, is the Benefits to members are not automatic, but there are there would be less asking ''Why don't they-?" and more "fertile ground" in which community Farm Bureau vast possiblities. The benefits depend uoon what the deciding "Why don't we.... ?!' Groups can flourish and bring forth fruits of achievements members do as a group-what life they infuse into their GOmmunity Farm Bureau Groups can and should be the in abundance. meetings, what problems they tackle, their spirit of ad- county Farm Bureau's most fruitful source of program- venture and discovery of new ideas, and the actions they building ideas. • How Groups Were Born undertake together. The year was 1936.Michigan Farm Bureau was then 17 Some groups ha ve not oIlly become the "pillars" of their years old. The early years had been marked by ex- _ Policy Action Too county Farm Bureau, but have also become the most plorations into supply and marketing services as well as constructive force in their own community, to their own The same active, close relationship should exist in informational and legislative programs. Much good was benefit. -. proposing future policy positions or resolutions of the done. But some ventures were disastrous failures and ~ One Michigan adult educator has said that Community county Farm Bureau. Every group meeting IS an op- almost proved fatal to the young organization. These Groups members become better informed on public af- portunity for group members to suggest to the county taught important lessons, too. fairs than most of the general public. Is this a benefit? Farm Bureau what they think should be done to meet the In that year of 1936two men of vision sat down to con- Yes! A self-governing people must be an informed people! common problem of farm people at the county, state, sider Farm Bureau's future. These men were Jack The early founders of Michigan Farm Bureau Cited a national or international levels. Yaeger and Keith Tanner. In past Farm Bureau ventures, broad benefit resulting from mrlted action. "We have This opportUnity-this responsibility-is too often by- someting was miss!n~-but what? provided a new power for ourselves. We can accomplish - passed or neglected. If Farm Bureau is to represent farmers, then there should be a majority of the membership in a position to help develop policies. This means many more members attending group and county meetings than have taken advantage of the opportunity up to the present time. Work needs to be done to realize such a goal. Those who recognize the opportunities offered by this goal are those members who ha ve tried it out to their own best ad- vantage. Groups Help Member Organize TUVIC The main promotion, sponsorship and the organization work for Community Farm Bureau Groups comes from ....... county Farm Bureaus through their Community Group Pro~ram. But much of the new-group organization work has been done by established Commtmity Farm Bureau Groups. They have encouraged other neighbor members to by KEN WILES organize. They have helped them to get activated-"have shown them the ropes." They have explained how the Manager Member Relations member becomes a personal force i~ this organization through the group action. Groups which do this organizing are those that have discovered the real value of organization. They have Open for Comment found thatCommunity Farm Bureau Groups not only unite their neighborhood in fellowship;out that it can be a on OSHA Rules Topic Summary fellowship of united action. By working together, their voice and their abilities are magnified. Farmers are invited to This discovery, when based on positive and constructive comment on newly proposed effort, packs a lot of wallop. Community Farm Bureau standards for farm machinery Group; which really catch fire quickly discover that there that would eventually require January's Discussion Topic on "Probate is more to it than "Meetin'; seatin'; eatin'; gripin'; that power transmission Reform" revealed that many members do not have snipin', and fightin' ". Working together in the group .components be guarded on all an up-to~te will. Only one community group, the brings real rewards. equipment. Blue Water Light House, reported that all of its The proposals, published on members had a will. Most groups reached the The Future Feb. 8, are for standards to be conclusion, after much discussion, that probate An organization with a dedicated purpose always looks applied in three phases. First, reform is need~d. to its future vitality. Farm Bureau's vitality rest with its all power take-off drives would younger farm families. Some of them may not know that have to be guarded by April they are invited to use this opportunity for active mem- 1975. Secondly, all power bership. Yet among them lies the program growth of the 1. It has been estimated that less than 40 percent of organization. The policies and the program growth of the transmissions on equipment the population has a will. Is this true so far as future will rest on their decisions. manufactured after Jan. 1, 1975 members of your group are concerned? Yes: Farm Bureau needs them in the active member role -- in would have to be guarded. 53 percent No: 47 percent Community Farm Bureau Groups. Here is a special Then all equipment would ha ve to meet this requirement challenge to the established community Farm Bureau by January 1976 regardless o{ Groups. You can do your bit to build for the future by 2. Should the matter of "keeping the farm in one the manufacturing date. piece" be given special consideration in plan- seeking out those members in your own community, In all cases, guards would be ning a proper pRlgram of inheritance? Yes: 94 explaining the opportunity of community Farm Bureau required to stay in place while Groupi, and helping them organize in groups of their own percent No: 6 percent machinery was in motion. Hired age and interests. operators would also be If you strike a spark of interest and need help in setting required to ha ve instruction in 3. Conclusions: The inheritance tax is too low; put up or conducting organization meetings, call on your the safe operation and servicing everything in writing; probate reform is needed county Farm Bureau for aid. The county Community of the equipment they handle. now; laws should be changed to protect women's Group Committee in charge of this work will be happy to Those wishing to comment on rights; pay for funeral in advance; the word back your venture. the proposed standards should "will" brings unpleasant thoughts so we neglect And for the members themselves, their community write to the Office of Standards, the matter; all should support action for probate Farm Bureau Group can be a highly effective unit in the US Dept. of Labor, Washington, reform. • community and a dynamo of strength within their farm D.C. before Anril 9. organizations. .MARCH 1,. 1974 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS PAGE 15 MSU's Farmer Week on for March lIorticulture: vegetable gardening -. ~frJl were. motorcycles. any make or condition. • "' WitJi,'HOJrlt and 1/ecdti;- ' Preferably previous to 1930. Harry Farris. 5563 Michael. Bay City. Mich. 48706 Phone: (517) the all new Franklin Brown, a long-time dairy operator in Lenawee County, ~ and HaPPiness. 684-4904. (3-lt -22p) Incinerator was nearing retirement. His son, however~ had enrolled in a special ',&~ 1~ we shou(dnl want 1'0 .fuss, WANTED-Old Toy train'>. Lionel. Flyer. etc. agricultural training course and planned to take over in a few years. ~;~~,_.~ for bJ' this stack oj rlicience, Send details & a~ress 01'" phone Douglas He--and his father generally handled the operation themselves, but , +1 Byam. 11200 Potter Rd .• Lowell. Mich. 49331. ~. (616) 897-8319. (3-tf-2Ip) they did employ a few high school boys for the haying season. On July 20, 1971,Mr. Brown hired four boys from town. The next SERVICES day, as they were putting hay in the barn, tragedy stuck. Chuck "Dirty Dishes," from tbe \ Wilson, age sixteen, walked beneath the elevator. The cable broke original pen and ink illustration BAND AVAILABLE - Playing a variety of and Chuck was crushed. and hand lettering by Milton S. music fer allY occasion. Available fer Several vectibrae were permanently damaged. Doctors indicate it engagements within a 25 mile radius of Gram Levy -lithographed in sepia on Rapids. Phone (616) 881-1841 Sparta. Mich. is probable the boy will be paralyzed for life. parchment paper. As an (3-lt-23p1 Fortunately, Franklin Brown did have a Workmen's Compensation 81hxll" print, suitable for insurance policy which has'provided approximately $35,000thus far FORESTRY SERVICES - appraisals. plam. framing, $2.00; professionally consultations. investigations relating to Bring pollution free incineration to for payment of the boy's medical expenses. framed in walnut-finished wood timber. shade am Christmas tree problems. the farm. No gf"ates. Virtually no At the time of loss, the Workmen's Compensation law required that frame, $5.80; smaller print in Fire am theftlosses. marketing. Geot'ge Blair. smoke or smell. Oil fired with auto- only unlimited medical benefits be paid. Chuck Wilson had not Reg. Forester No.3. 720 S. Durand. Jackson. 414 "X51~" frame, $4.55. Catalog Mich. Tel. (517) 782-9544. (3-lt-25p1 matic. timer. Full 1% year warranty worked 13 weeks. Today, now that the law's application to on complete unit. showing a large number of agriculture has been changed, he would be eligible to receive full ARABIAN STUD SERVICE. Bell-Ray Furud Comes in two sizes. Large unit will other ILLUSTRATED No. 19562 Chestnut-4 white stockings. Fee $5G- benefits, including disability income. Estimated claim cost under hold a 600 lb. hog. Ql'OTES. with your order. We $100. Don Knox Double Tree Farms. 2626 E today's ru!es: $150,000. pay postage. Send check or Castle Rd .• North Branch. Mich Ph. 313~- 3654. (3-lt-24p For more information phone COl- money order to: lect or write: The above is an actual case taken from the files of Farm Bureau CH~ATIVE ART PROD- lnsuranc.- Group. Names, dates and locations have been changed to l'CTS MISCELLANEOUS Jerald lichtfuss protect the privacy of those involved. The Workmen's Compensation n.-pt. 'IF -3, Apt. F2 2303 Valleywood DTive SE rules for agriculture have been changed drastically by the Supreme PECo\l'S: Delicious Shelled Pecan Halves :1849 East Ryan Road lb. box $6.95. 3 lb. box $9.95. Sue's Pecal1:' Grand Rapids, Mich. 49506 Court. All members are urged to revie\\' the law carefully. The Tucson. Ariz. 85716 Foley. Alabama 36535. 12-3t-ll;p Phone: 616-949-3452 potential liability to farmers is staggering. PAGE 16 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS MARCH 1, 1974 FACT: Now you..can obtain individually decreasing term FACT: Men and women qualifying for FARM BUREAU life insurance for yourself, your spouse, your children MEMBER LIFE INSURANCE and serving their country between March 1 and May 3i with absolutely no phys- in the armed forces are protected while in military ical examination and no health questions during the 90- service. day sign up period ... if you're a Farm Bureau Member. FACT: An unmarried 18 year old Farm Bureau member FACT: FARM BUREAU MEMBER LIFE INSURANCE is -will receive $9,565 of FARM BUREAU MEMBER LIFE a program designed for Farm Bureau Members only. All INSURANCE protection. Farm Bureau Members, ages 18 through 70 are eligible. FACT: A 30 year old married Farm Bureau Member FACT: When coverage is renewed each year no physical with children receives $3,775 of FARM BUREAU MEM- examination will be necessary through age 70. BER LI FE protection, the spouse has $1,000 of coverage FACT: Coverage is automatically updating. When a and each child is covered with $1,000 of life insurance. Farm Bureau Member marries, as children arrive, pro- FACT: About 48~ a w.eek ... $25 annually ... can / tection is expanded automatically. Each child is auto- provide life insurance for every Michigan Farm Bureau matically covered from the age of 15 days through 21 Member. spouse and child. Each Farm Bureau Member years (as long as the child is single and does not hold family is eligible for one FARM BUREAU MEMBER a FARM BUREAU MEMBER LIFE: INSURANCE policy). LIFE INSURANCE policy. FACT: Membership acceptance of this significant bene- Check these facts and others with Charlie Foster, your fit will determine the scope of future member benefit local Farm Bureau Insurance Agent and your Farm Bu- programs. reau County Secretary. - INSURANCE TOO iii Farm Bureau Mutual • Farm Bureau Life • Community Service Insurance • Community Service Acceptance