\ " \ MICHIGAN FARM NEWS SERVING OVER 61,000 FARM BUREAU FAMILIES MAY 1, 1976 Petition inserted in this IIFarm News" Farm Bureau backs I'bottle bill" A statewide petition drive has All persons !iigning a given been launched to place the petition must be registered in the-- 0 question of banning nonretur- designated county. nable bottles on the November 2 3. Persons signing the ~tition ballot for voters to decide. This should' use the signature they drive is being led by Michigan employ on° any legal document. United Conservation Clubs with Women should be careful to not strong support from several sign as "Mrs. John Doe." statewide organizations in- 4. All petitions are valid ~ven if cluding Micl1igah Farm Bureau. not completely filled with A COpy OF THE PETITION signatures: Read instructions on IS-::ENCLOSED WITH THIS the petition carefully before ISSUE OF MICHIGAN FARM circula ting. NEWS. Farm Bureau members If placed on the ballot and are encouraged to circulate the appFQ.ved by voters, beverage petition(s) as widely as possible containers used for soft drinks, and return it by JUNE 1. The soda water, carb.onated natUral ~titions may be returned to 9C mineraJ wat-er, or otber Michigan Fann Burea:u. no~Vc ~.Bated dri~, The following rules should be !leer aie, or ~fJler'fJ)a~iRkf I of: ooserved in circula ting tlie any aleoholic -<;pnreiif' ~ be petitions; required to carq ~ ~epesit sr At 1. Tbe cir~laior must be a least 10 cents. Ho.wE!l¥er, such M~t~ \fg1et in .MichigaR. The beverage confliinets: that. are circulator shoJild not sign or date certified a,~ re~ble, by mQlie the ocertificate until after cir- than one manufacturer will be ool~t-inB the petition. required to carry a 5c deposit. 2. 'l'Jm: petition may be cir- Michigan Farm Bureau polic~ culated ANYWflERE within the adopted by voting delegates last It was an early spring in lower MkbIgan with record breaking tempetatD'tes and the state's far- county. The name of the county December strongly supportS a mers were where they wanted to be - in tbe fields. A late April cold snap put a d... ~ on much ef the must be entered in the space petition drive to deal with the enthusiasm, especially in fruit gro~ing country .. provided at the top of the petition. (Continued on page 15) Iodine toxicity in cows causes symptoms similar to PBB poisoning, MSU study shows Michigan State University dairy from 12 cows. No PBB was detected in this Using 14 cows from problem herds and Rough hair coat, slow lethargic researcherS believe they have isolated first herd. The grain ration was analyzed eight normal cows from the MSU herd, movement, reduced appetite and milk iodine toxicity as another dairy cow and found to contain 20 parts per million researchers used thyrotrophic releasing obesity were observed. Calves born from ailment. (ppm) iodine, and a bulk sample of milk hormone (TRH) to determine how the cows dosed with radioiodine, appeared "We came across this last December in contained more than five times the normal thyroid and pituitary glands responded to normal at birth but failed to grow nor- a herd of 64 Holsteins when invited by a amount of iodine. Blood thyroxine levels stimulation. Problem cows had higher mally. One calf weighed only 220 pounds local veterinarian to help solve what ap- indicated that both the cows and calves baseline levels of thyroid stimulating at eight months of age. At 10 months of peared to be a nutritional problem. We are were suffering from hypothyroidism, hormone (TSH) and lower levels of age, this heifer was fed iodinated casein, a currently looking at 26 herds that may be Hillman says. thyroxine in their blood than eonlrol cows. thyroactive compound. The heifer getting too much iodine," says Dr. Donald "Several of the herds checked were Also, after stimulation with TRH, problem responded in general appearance and Hillman, MSU dairy cattle nutrition shown to have four to five times the nor- cows produced exaggerated con- growth and at 19 months weighed 460 specialist. mal amount of iodine in the milk than they centrations of TSH in their blood, and pounds. Another calf lived only a few hours Iodine is fed to cattle in mineral feed should have had," Hillman says. lower levels of thyroxine than control after birth. supplements to prevent thyroid problems, He says researcpers have haa qramatic cows. Hypothroid cows that were nearly dry much in the same manner humans are fed results in. increasing milk produetion with "This indicates that the thyroid glands were fed iodinated casein (Protamone) at iodine through their table salt intake. But selected low-productive cattle in two were not functioning normally, says Dr. the 24th week of lactation. Milk production higher levels of iodine are included in herds. "Thyroprotein, a thyroactive Edward M. Convey, a research increased and within three weeks equaled mineral and protein supplements to compound, was added to the ration in the physiologist in the Department of Dairy the mghest initial level attained during the prevent "foot rot' and soft tissue lumpy amounfM 10 to 15 grams daily. The cows Science at MSU, who cooperated in the same lactation. jaw in cattle. Cattle may get an excessive doubled in milk production from 18pounds experiment. Cows with damaged thyroids that failed amount of iodine by an accumulation from of milk daily to 36 pounds of milk daily," The researchers are currently con- to show evidence of estrus came into heat several sources. Also, several mineral and Hillman explains. ducting similar experiments in other herds and were bred after a period of treatment salt mixtures on the market provide too Two cows in the first herd producing 29 to confirm these findings. with thyroprotein. much iodine when mixed into the grain and 31 pounds of milk daily, increased to Hillman says that symptoms of The Tennessee workers noted thyroid ration at rates that farmers normally use, over 60 pounds daily, within a week after hypothyroidism in cattle have been iodine uptake, thyroid secretion rate, Hitlman says. receiving thyroprotein. Both herds reported by research workers in Ten- plasma protein bound iodine, and heart Hillman explains some of the symptoms responded similarly in milk production. nessee. rate were all substantially reduced in the shown in cattle apparently having too high Hillman says that in both herds there They were able to induce lactating hypothyroid heifers. However, an iodine intake include tearing eyes, was a history of having fed 75 to 150 hypothyroidism in dairy cattle by oral body weight was similar to their twin nasal discharge, bulging eyes, ner- milligrams (mg) of iodine daily for a year oos'ing with radioactive iodine. Initial milk control heifers. vousness, and loss of hair. Eventually they or longer. "High levels of iodine had not yields of cows with damaged thyroids Other research workers have reported become lethargic, have rough hair coats been fed for a period of six months prior to averaged 76 percent of the control group that high IE?vels of iodine aggravate and produce poorly. our experiment. The evidence s~gests and de.clined to 26 percent of the control clinical conditions due to infectious or BeeatlBe of the similarity of the symp- tha t those cows suffering from group at 44 weeks in lactation. Milk yield noninfectious insult (such as disease or toms to those attributed to polybrominated hypothyroidism, could respo-nd to an was greetly reduced in comparison with malnutrition) and that response to routine biphenyl (PBB), fat biopsies were taken eXogeBOU5 source of thyroxine," he adds. previous lactations. medical therapy is poor. ~, MAY 1, 1976 On Washington trip Mem'bers are standouts Once again it has been my privilege to attena a items on the evening news in central Michigan. Washington Legislative Seminar sponsored by the Farm Once in Washington the legislative leaders outdid Bureau Women. This year's seminar was an outstanding themselves as they jawboned with their congressmen at success in all areas. the legislative breakfasts. They were not shy and the Each year as the Farm Bureau legislative leaders go to discussions were serious and issue oriented. A good part Washington there are issues of concern to farmers. Issues of Michigan's congressional delegation now knows from which need to be discussed with our senators and first hand knowledge how farmers feel on today's crucial representatives. As the legislative leaders went to the issues. nation's capital this year the matter of estate tax reform With farmers a small minority of the population today, was on the front burner and our members came prepared. it is vital that all farmers become informed on the issues They had facts, figures and examples at their finger- and communicate with their congressmen at both the tips. And they used this information well as they visited with their congressmen and talked with the news media. st4ite and national levels.' Farmers also need to become involved in their local government bodies. Without such The news media coverage at the Lansing airport was personal commitment we cannot hope to get a fair shake most gratifying. Reporters from newspapers' and radio stations were there as well as camera crews and news in the legislatures. With it we can be heard. broadcasters from several TV stations. They wanted to The annual Farm Bureau Washington Legislative know the details of the estate tax reform issue and the Seminar is one successful example of how concerned farm members gave them the answers. Farm Bureau members. people working together can be heard in today's complex and their concern for estate tax reform became featured . political world.' State membership Unions agree status to load grain A settlement agreement bet- The agreement follows a ween the Maritime Unions in- complaint filed by the Texas, NOW YEAR AGO volved in last fall's Boycott of Kansas and American Farm MICHIGAN American Grain bound for the Bureaus on August 25, 1975 in GOAL: 61 ,586 61 ,098 Soviet Union and the National which they charged the Inter- FARM NEWS Labor Relations Board was national Longshoremen's announced recently by the Association with a secondary New: 3,878 3,907 President of the American Farm boycott. The Michigan FARM NEWS is publiShed monthlv. on the first day. bv Bureau Federation. Grant said, "The motive of the the Michigan Farm Bureau Information Division. PUblication and Editorial Renewals: 56,329 56,943 union leaders in ordering the offIces at 7373 West Saginaw Highway, Allan Grant, speaking before boycott was not a concern for Lansing, Michigan 48904. PO$t OfficE.' the Texas Farm Bureau State- food prices in the U.S. as they Box 960. Telephone, Lansing A85.8121. Extension 228. Subscription price. 65 TOTAL: 60,207 60,850 wide conference for county stated publicly, but an insistence cents per year. presidents said, "The unions on a maritime cargo preference Established January 13. 1923. Second. class postage paid at LanSing. Mi. and at ~~ of Goa 1 97. 76?~ 99.59% involved have signed the agreement with increased additional mailing offices. agreement whereby they agr.ee to maritime subsidies to be paid by EDITORIAL: Editor. Jim Phillips; Associate Editor. Donna Wilber; Staff cease and desist from engaging American taxpayers. Photographer. Marcia Ditchie. Needed for in similar work stoppages in the "Farmers were being used as OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; President. Ellon R. Smith. Caledonia. R. Goal: 1 ,379 248 future. The agreement empowers political pawns by the Maritime 1; Vice President, Dean Pridgeon. the NLRB to obtain a court of Unions, the AFL-CIO and the U.S. Montgomerv. R.l; Administrative Director. Robert Braden, Lansing; appeals decree incorporating the State Department in the Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer. cease and desist portions of the Negotiations carried on with the Max D. Dean; Secretary. Wilkinson. William S. DEDICATED DOZEN CLUB agreement." Soviet Union." I DIRECTORS: District 1: Arthur Bailey. SchOOlcraft; District 2. Dean DONNA Pridgeon, Montgomery, R.l; District 3, Andrew Jackson, Howell. R-l; District ... Elton R. Smith. Caledonia. R.l; District 5. William Spike. Owosso. R.3; District 1-300 301-800 6. Jack Laurie. Cass City, R.3; District 7, Robert Rider. !:fart, R.l; District 8, Larry DeVuyst. Ithaca. R.4; District 9, Donald Nugent. Frankfort, 10. Richard Wieland. District 11. Franklin R.l; District Ellsworth. Schwiderson, R.l; 1. 2. Ka 1 kaska I ron Range 1. 2. Mason Hiawatha1and Monkey cage Dafter. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter H. L. Mencken, one of my jectivity above my prejudice, I'd Frahm. Frankenmuth; James l. Sayre, journalistic heroes, once evaluate our farmers as way Belleville; Blissfield. Lowell Eisenmann. 3. Benzie 3. Wayne described democracy as "the art above average, compared to WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. and sCience of running the circus other groups who visit the Andrew Jackson, Howell. R.". FARM BUREAU YOUNG FAR- from inside the monkey cage." nation's capitol. This wasn't my MERS: Tom Atherton. Gaines. Having just visited first experience with the POSTMASTER: In using . form 3579, Washington, D.C. with 100 Washington Seminar, but I never mail to. Michigan Farm News. 7373 801-1300 1301-over Michigan Farm Bureau mem- cease to be impressed with the West Saginaw Highway, Lansing, bers, I can say that's a pretty apt dedication to purpose displayed Michigan A8904. 1. Oakland description. But history has by our county and state 1. Clinton Legislative Leaders and how proven that, with all its faults, FaRm~ 2. St. Clair 2. Bay our form of government is still the best there is. articulate they are in their person-to-person communicat- BUreaU 3. I sabe 11 a 3. Genesee One of the reasons for itS success is because of groups like ions with Congressmen. To them, thi~ annual trek is not a sight- seeing tour, but a very special our's who pay an annual visit to mission with very special the monkey cage to check on the responsibilities. And they put all monkeyshines taking place in- the knowledge, experience Clnd side. And to remind the MOVING? inhabitants of the cage that we put them there and we have the commitment they have into making that mission successful. The degree of their success will Planning to move? Let us know 8 print new address in space power to clean out old banana be determined in the days ahead weeks in advance so you won't provided. Mail to: Michigan Farm peels and monkeys as well. miss a single issue of the Michigan in the halls of Congress. But one News, P.O. Box 960. Lansing, It's evident the inhabitants like success can already be chalked Farm News. Attach old label .and Michigan 48904. their cage and they want to stay up our lawmakers in Name there and run the circus. Our Washington are aware that Address farmers were treated like the farmer-voters "back home" care City ringmasters they are about what's going on in their State respected, listened to and agreed country's capital. Zip Code with. '. t County of Membership That's what democracy is all Trying hard to keep my ob- about. PAGE 3 . Myra Spike named Michigan's IIMo-ther of the Year" A farm wife from Owosso, mother of six teacher for many years. All six Spike children are college-trained children, and a widely - recognized Long recognized as an agricultural and have followed their parent's example agricultural leader, has been named leader at the local, state, national and of community and state involvement and Michigan's "Mother of the Year." Myra international levels, she was a 4-H leader leadership. Two sons, Bill and Tom, are Spike, wife of veterinarian - dairyman Dr. for 25 years, twice~lected president of partners in the Spike Farms of Owosso. Cyril Spike, received the honor April 13 at Michigan's 15,000 Extension Another son, Richard of Swartz Creek, is a Community Auditorium in Northland Homemakers, a leader in the Shiawassee veterinarian. Daughter Edith (Mrs. Center, Southfield,. Michigan. County Farm Bureau and Michigan Farm . William Kettler) and her husband own a She is now one of 50 state winners who Bureau, and the Associated Country farm in Chapin Township, Saginaw will be considered for the title of Women of the World. " County. Daughter Patricia (Mrs. John "American Mother of the Year." The In 1972, Mrs. Spike and her husband Talsma) and her husband, also a annual search for Mothers of the Year has were presented with Michigan Farm veterinarian, live on a small farm near been an activity of the American Mothers Bureau's "Distinguished Service to Caledonia. Daughter Diann Jenkins is a Committee, Inc., for 35 years to highlight Agriculture" award, based on their many Home Economist with the Cooperative the role of mothers in the home, com- contributions to the agricultural industry. Extension Service and lives in Gladwin. munity, nation and the world. They were the first man and wife "team" The Spikes have 21 grandchildren. Dr. and Mrs. Spike have three sons and ever to receive this honor from the~tate's Dr. Spike, also a community and three daughters, and have lived in largest farm organization. agricultural leader, was the recipient of Shiawassee County for 30 years. Spike ...... Twice, she was a delegate to the Michigan State University's "Award for Myra Spike with Julie Spike, Farms, recognized as one of the most Associated Country Women of the World Distinguished Service" to the dairy in- youngest of her 21 grandchildren. progressive dairy operations in the state, meetings, in Norway and Australia, and as dustry. that giving of one's times and talents bring includes an octagon merry-go-round type an active member of the ACWW has Qualifications for "Mother of the Year" rewards of personal growth. Myra Spike milking parlor which has attracted contributed to better nutrition, sanitation include evidence by the character and has filled this role with enthusiasm, visitors ftom throughout the world. Their and family living throughout the world. achievements of their children that she is a dedication and graciousness. The heritage innovative systems of management have Mrs. Spike, born in River Rouge, successful. mother, have a sense of she gives her children and they, in turn, to brought students, dairymen and govern- Michigan, in 1915, attended Ann Arbor responsibility in civic affairs and be active her 21 grandchildren, is certain to make ment officials from many foreign coun- High School and Ypsilanti Normal College. in service for public benefit. our world a better place. '.~ ~ tries to inspect the facilities on _the 1200- She married Cyril Spike in 1933and helped In supporting the nomination of Mrs. Her nomination was also supported by acre, 700 dairy cattle farm. with the farm work while he received his Spike, Elton R. Smith, president of the the Shiawassee County Farm Bureau, the In her community, Mrs. Spike has been veterinarian schooling. Throughout the Michigan Farm Bureau, said, "By Salem Lutheran Church of Owosso, and active in the Cancer Society, the years, she has been an ~ctive member of example. she teachers her children that the Michigan Association of Extension Republican Party, PT A,' and in her the family business enterprise and still real caring and concerns make active Homemakers. church, the Salem Lutheran Church of helps with the farm chores even though involvement a necessity, that good The American Mother of the Year will be Owosso, where she was a Sunday School she and Dr. Spike are "retired." citizenship is more than just voting, and announced in May. Presidential' primary is on for May 18 The recently publicized "on ventions. If' presidential can- again" - "off again" Michigan didate A in the Republican party Presidential Primary election receives 40 percent of the vote in will now be held on May 18 the state, then 40 percent of the following a Supreme Court Michigan delegates to the ruling. The ruling settled the National Republican Convention legal issue raised by local must support candidate A as government organizations over whether governments the state or local should pay the their party's President. llominee A presidential candidate must for A line of credit estimated $2.5 million cost of the primary. Pending legislative receive at least 5 percent of the vote cast for all candidates in his party in order to earn committed is almost as good proposals make it uncertain as to exactly where the cost will be borne, delegates. If he receives less than 5 percent, he would get no as money in the pocket. committed delegates. The May 18 presidential Delegates to the national A line of credit: It's like having many pre-arranged loans, primary is required by Michigan conventions who are committed just waiting for you. Then you can take advantage of tax law. The primary changes to a candidate must support him planning purchases ...or unexpected pric,! breaks on feeders somewhat the- traditional ior two ballots unless he drops out ...or big discounts on large-volume purchases. 0 We can political structure of the state to of contention or releases his help you determine how much borrowed capital your opera- make sure that Mi~higan's delegates. After the first two tion needs and can support. You needn't borrow that much delegations to the national ballots are completed, the conventions this summer ref.lect delega tes may switch their ...but you will have a better idea of how far you can go, if the voters preferences for support to another candidate. necessary, in your financial planning. 0 So come in soon! presidential candidates. Presidential candidates are Talk with us about establishing your own line of credit. Voters who go to the polls on working hard to win delegates in May 18 must choose between the the 30 state primaries which presidential candidates of one began in February and will party only. For example, if a conclude in June. Michigan Farm voter chooses to vote as a Bureau members should Democrat, he must select among carefully evaluate the the presidential candidates who presidential candidates as they are seeking the Democrat Party campaign for the Michigan nomination. primary. Following this After the presidential primary evaluation, each member should has been held and the votes are exercise his responsibility to go known. the political parties must to the polls on May 18and vote for reflect the sentiments of' the his preferred presidential can- voters at their national con- didate. Lansing peA elects new board Over $48 million was loaned to Kennard E. Dysinger of Perry central Michigan farmers in 1975 was newly elected to the board of by the Production Credit directors and Weldon E. Brown of Msociation of Lansing according Sunfield was re-elected to the to Arnold K. Musolf, association board by members present at the secretary -manager. meeting. Musolf's financial report was PCA of Lansing has 3.000 delivered during PCA of Lan- 'farmer members in Eaton, sing's Annual Stockholders Ingham. Shiawassee, Ionia, Meeting held at MSU's Kellogg Clinton, Barry, Livingston, Center in March. Genesee and Oakland counties. PAGE .. AAAY 1, 1976 CAPITOL REPORT Rqbert E. Smith Inverted rates and state utilities Rate Change.s by verted rate will be approximately..:. use increased. The Public Ser- For example, a Federal Energy ~ Public Service Commission $2.52 more per month compared vice Commission then decreed a Administration regulation soon to A new precedent has been set in Price Later Agreements to $2.09under a flat rate. At 1,500 flat rate system. The 'cost of be published will require every H.B. 6122 has been introduced Michigan for the rates that are kWh, the inverted rate is $5.20 electricity to farmers rose state to cut its total energy use by charged by electric utilities to to amend the Farm Produce more per month, the flat rate considerably. Now with the 5 percent by 1980. This will be Storage Act and will be known as their residential customers. The $3.12. At 2,000 kWh, the inverted change to the 'inverted' system, difficult to do. As a result of the Michigan Public Service Com- the "Grain Dealers Act".' Any rate $8.05, flat rate $4.18. At 5,000 we can anticipate another higher federal requirements, Governor person in the business of "buying, mission recently announced new kWh, the inverted rate will in- than necessary added cost to food Milliken has announced the rate decisions for the Detroit exchanging, selling or storing crease the cost to $13.76more per pr04uction. establishment of a new Energy farm produce" will be liable to Edison Company and the Con- month. It will be noted that the- Administration. The purpose is to sumers Power Company . ..Dne of "Modern agriculture has the provisions of the act. Grain inverted rate increases quite develop recommendations for a dealers will be required to be the unexpected provisions of the rapidly. become most dependent upon Michigan Energy Act within 45 licensed and to be bonded or to decision was the initiation of the The inverted rates to not electricity and, unlike most other days, energy goals by July 1, and "inverted rate system". Briefly, segments of the economy, have assets or a letter of credit presently apply to electric water an energy conservation plan by for no less than $20,000.Any grain this means that the cost per unit heating as for the most part, agriculture does not have an October 1. dealer issuing "price later" of electricaJ power will rise with water is heated at night, during qpportunity to pass on such added Energy is a serious issue in agreements must satisfy one of_ increased use of power. the off period. The rate is also costs. Thus, farmers become Michigan as our state must According to the Public Service greater victims of the spiraling the following: lower for those using electricity import more than 95percent of its Commission, the new rates for, for sRace heating. 'cost-price' squeeze'." energy and fuel. There will be- A. Keep the farm produce or Consumers Power (CP) and It is said that the new inverted The letter also stated that several state legislative bills fungible farm produce on hand as Detroit Edison (DE) are as residential rate is "symbolic" or inasmuch as the decision was not introduced in the near future to his own property. follows: The service charge will "modest", in that the variation in anticipated, that the Commission carry out conservation B. Have farm produce cer- be CP-$2.50 and DE-$2.40. The rates is not very large. The should reconsider its decision and measures. These will range from tificates representing equal first 500 kWh will be 3.65c per problem is that future rate permit reaction by those whom it insulation requirements for new amounts in values of farm . kWh-CP and 3.6c - DE; 501-1,000 changes may result in steeply will affect. and rennovated' buildings, produce as approved by the kWh, 3.85c - CP and 3.Se - DE; increased rates for those using The answer received from mandatory lighting conservation director. over 1,000 kWh, the rate will be larger amounts of power, as it is Daniel Demlow, Commission standards for public buildings, Chairman, stated that the pur- C. Have an irrevocable l~tter 4.05c-CP and 4.Oc-DE. If a flat claimed that the "inverted rate" programs to promote car pooling, of creditor money in escrow to rate had been continued, the system is intended to discourage pose of the change was due to changes in building codes, etc., "the increasing realization that cover not less than 30 percent of charge per kWh would have been the use of electricity by making it etc. At a recent multi-state the value of the farm produce. 3.71c for CP and 3.65c for DE. It more expensive as the use in- the State of Michigan must get a Energy Conservation Meeting at handle on its usage of electric D. Procure a commitment on will be noted tha t there is some creases. The present variations which Farm Bureau was energy." He pointed out that new future selling price of the amount difference between the two obviously are not large enough to represented, numerous proposals of produce., companies' rates, however, these force cuts in electrical use. generating plants now require were discussed on ways to "investments of seven to eight These are the key features of rates translate approximately Farm Bureau sent a letter to require energy conservation in the bill. In short, if the legislation ioto the following additionai members of the Public Service hundred dollars per kilowatt of agriculture. While energy con- passes, farmers using the "price amounts per month that a con- CO'tnmission indicating concern installed capacity." It .is servation is necessary, it will also rationalized that if decreased later" arrangement will be SJlQl.6 might pay. Those using 500 with the "inverted rate" decree, be controversial. ~h per ~nth will pay 76c more usage can eliminate the building protected in a very similar pointing out that it may result in manner to those farmers tiiaer too. new inverted rate, an undue increase in the cost bf of generating facilities, that Goyemment Power • wl1i1eunder a flat rate. it wQuld money and energy can be saved. One issue closely related to the presently storing grain in a power for agriculture. The letter overall energy problem is .the warehouse and receiving a have been $1.05more. Some users further stated that: "Only two or The letter said that "additional have an advantage in this case. testimony would not be ap- recommendation that the blue receipt for it. three years ago, the cost per unit ribbon Governor's panel recently It has just corne to light that However, at 1,000 kWh, the in- of electricity decreased as the propriate at this time." However, it further stated that "it is made on electrical generation. In farmers in one part of the state essential that the needs of the an 8-5 vote, the Governor's panel apparently have lost more than agricultural community be recently made on electrical $500,000due to grain transactions pursued further because it is generation. In an 8-5 vote, the with a trucking firm. Presently conceivable that the new _ap- Governor's Advisory Com- farmers who choose to sell grain NOW, proach to pricing will receive even greater attention in the . future." The letter invited Farm mission PowerAlternatives on nded creation of a Michigan Electric recomme- in this manner take great risks and have no protection. The provisions of H.B. 6122 are Bureau to work with the Public Power Authority, funded by generally consistent from Farm AV'AILABLE Service Commission staff to provide "a reasonable means for recognizing the concern of far- general obligation bonds, to generate and sell power to in- Bureau policy as passed at the Annual Meeting. vestor-owned utilities. It was also ...Marketing and Bargaining recommended that the Public mers" . S.B. 1332is on the Senate floor Service Commission decide when The "inverted rate" system for and will eliminate the September and if a new generating plant is MICHIGAN FARM BUREAU'S residential customers has now been mandated for the two major needed and to determine whether expiration date in the Marketing and Bargaining Act, P A 344, private utilities or the tax-hacked Michigan utility companies in the which can be used by fruit and . BICENTENNIAL PUBLICATIONI state. It is likely that it will be power authority should build and operate the generating facilities. vegetable growers. This program extended to all other companies has been used successfully by the It is claimed that the state could • Proud to Be an American? operating in the state. finance construction cheaper growers of various fruits and vegetables. However, the • Proud to Be a Farmer? The Commission's order also than private utilities because of processor groups have made a major change for com- its ability to bond at lower rates challenged the act at every court Proud to Be a Farm Bureau Member? mercial and industrial customers and its exemption from the level. The act is now awaiting a by initiating "time of day" rates. federal income tax. This is ex- Then you'll want "200 Years of American Agriculture" with Supreme Court decision as to This means that. power used tremely controversial, especially beautiful color photos as a Bicentennial keepsake. whether all its provisions are between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. would at a time when the state is in Constitutional. Elimination of the Includes the 1975 County ~ward Winners, too! be at a higher rate than power serious financial trouble and is expiration date in the act will used during the off-peak hours. faced with a backlog of con- continue its use in the event the On sale following the MFB Annual Banquet Thurs<.'-"" evening While most farmers' electric struction of public buildings that Court determines its Con- December 11 in Grand Rapids and all day Friday, December 12. power is at the residential rates, are clearly its responsibility - stitutionality. some farmers are on the higher such as penal institutions, Only $1.50 each. Or order by mail (add 50; for postage and commercial rates (where there is educational institutions, etc. Workers Compensation handling). no residence, irrigating, etc.>. It This most controversial Another energy news item is is not expected that the "time of legislation is still tied up in IMITED EDITION! DON'T MISS YOUR COpy! day" rates will apply to such the approval of a $220,000 ap- committees and on the floor of propriation, (H. 5693, PA 80) to Send to: Information and Public Relations Division farmers. the Senate. A special ~ommittee launch a state campaign to Michigan Farm Bureau is trying to work out differences Farm Bureau is presently convince the federal government P.O. Box 960 lansing, Michigan 48904 between the various approaches. gathering information to to build its Solar Energy Farm Bureau and MASA have Send copies or"ZOOYears of American Agriculture" to: determine the actual economic Research Institute in Michigan. met with representatives of the impact of this system on The institute is scheduled to open Departments of Labor and ame agriculture. The information will in January 1977to investigate and Commerce as well as members of be used to work with the Public facilitate the harnessing of solar the Legislature to present Farm ddress Service Commission staff. power for heating and cooling Bureau's views on the need for a Energy and all of its buildings. in converting thermal separate agricultural section in ramifications will become a energy for bio conversion to fuels any Wo~ers Compensation. ~k. Checks peyable to Michfgan Farm BarBu greater and greater issue. Utility and in wind energy conversion rates are only a part of that issue. systems. (~nued on page 1~) MAY 1, 1976 MICHIGAN FARM NEWS , PAGE 5 IITIIIAL lITE'S Albert A. Almy Estates' and,. beef check-off The subject of federal estate spection may be done either by .original House passed version. tax reform continues to be a top USDA personnel or state agen- - As approved by the conferees, little interest in pischarging responsibility. this mits. The final regulations I\ legislative goal of Farm Bureau. cies delegated by the Secretary of the bill would provide for beef EPA Feedlot Permit Program closely follow Farm Bureau's This column has been devoted Agriculture. The bill provides producers to register by mail or EP A has issued final recommendations. almost entirely to estate tax that an interior or inland points, in person at ASCS offices. A regulations establishing feedlot Saginaw Port legislation in recent weeks. In the Secretary shall designate the national referendum would then permit requirements. These The Corp of Engineers recently aadition, numerous speeches, agencies to carry out official be held. In order for the regulations were required by a announced plans to award a reports and other efforts have inspection services. These referendum to pass, at least 50 Federal District Court order contract for $11.5 million to build been made to build awareness agencies may be state or local percent of the registered issued last year. The regulations the Saginaw River Diked and support for estate tax government authorities or producers must vote and at least require that feedlots with l000.or Disposal Island Project. This bid reform. private agencies such as Boards two-thirds of those voting must more animal units must obtain a is $5 million under the Corp's The House Ways and Means of Trade or Chambers of Com- approve the proposed promotion permit if pollutants are original estimate to build the 300- Committee began mark-up merce. Farm Bureau sUPPQrted program. discharged into navigable acre island in Saginaw Bay sessions on H.R. 1793on April 26. the passage of H.R. 12572. Packer- Bonding waters. Feedlots with less than needed to contain the polluted This simply means the Com- Beef Check-Off The House Agriculture Com- 1000animal units but more than spoils from dredging the river. mittee is reviewing testimony -House and Senate confereees mittee has sent to the full House 300 are required to obtain a The Corp now estimates that gathered at public hearings held have approved and sent to the legislation amending the Packers permit if pollutants are actual construction of the island in March and deciding what floor H.R. 7656 which would and Stockyards A~t. As rePorted discharged through a manmade will begin either late this month changes should be made in the establish authority for a national by the Committee, the bill would conveyance or into waters that or' early May. The island will be legislation. Hopefully, this will check -off program to finance (1) require meat packers to post pass through or come in direct -built in two sections with the first not take too long and the Com- beef promotion and research. reasonable bonds, (2) authorize contact with animals in the part to be completed in June 1m mittee can report a bill to the Farm Bureau supported the the Secretary of Agriculture to confined area. Other feedlots in when the actual drooging of the House for a vote. original House passed version of seek injunctions against packers the 300 to 1000unit category may river can be started. The second H. R. 1793would substantially H.R. 7656 which provided for believed to be operating while be required to obtain a permit if section of the island will be increase the present 35-year old registration of beef producers insolvent, (3) require packers to designa ted by EP A or the completed in June 1978in time to standard and marital deductions prior to a valid referendum. pay for livestock by the close of director of a state watet pollution continue with the dredging which to reflect 1976 economic values However, the Senate deleted the business day following the control agency .. Such should be completed about a year ra ther than those of 1942. Also, the registration and referendum transaction, (4) give producers deslgnations will be made only later. the bill would provide heirs an provisicms in the House passed priority over all other creditors of after an on-site inspection and This issue is of importance to option for appraisal of the farm bill. The Senate passed the bill packers in the event of written notice is given the feedlot Michigan. agriculture because estate at its agricultural use with provisions for a weighted bankruptcy. The bill includes all operator. Feedlots with less than sedimentation has filled much of value rather than the present vote in the referendum which of the points called 'for in Farm 300 animal units are not subject the Saginaw Port shipping potential value. Farm Bureau policy did not Bureau policy except that the to the permit requirement except channel. This in turn prevents Grain Inspection support. The House rejected the Committee rejected a Farm where designated on a case by large ocean going vessels bound The House of Representatives Senate version last December Bureau. supported amendment case basis. It is estimated that directly for export destinations has passed H.R.12572 by a vote of and sent it to a Conference which would have given the under these final regulations, from calling at Saginaw. Without 246 to 33. This bill amends the Committee to resolve the dif- Packers and Stockyards only about 3240 feeding the dredging project, farmers u.s. Grain Standards Act and is ferences. Administration the same operations in the United States stand to lose this important ex- aimed at improving the present After discussions between authority to regulate the poultry will be required to obtain per- port outlet. system of grain inspection Farm _ Bureau representatives industry as they now have for the without complete federalization. and Beef Industry Development livestock industry. The po\l1try The bill provides for federal Task Force members, it was industry is currently under inspection of grain a t all export announced on March 30 that the jurisdiction of the Federal Trade port terminals. The actual in- Task Force would support the Commission which has shown Swine pregnancy detection So-nar on the farm Michigan State University alld lean tissue in the flank area and sows to be sold. It also swine researchers are ex- of the sow. If the sow is pregnant, enables a producer to control the perimenting with a unit, similar the weight of the intrauterine number of sows farrowing at one to sonar, which takes the fluid causes the uterus to sink to time. guesswork out of sow pregnancy the abdominal wall about 30 days The detector also determines checks. after mating, and this registers in back fat and loin thickness in "Properly used, these the sound wave pattern indicated swine and beef cattle. on the detector's display dial. There's considerable demand ultrasonic detectors are about 98 for the machine even though it percent accurate," says Dr. This means swine pregnancy INTEREST ON DEBENTURES 5-10-15 year maturity costs from $1,300 to $1,665. Some Maynard Hogburg, Extension can be determined much earlier, models are portable with swine specialist, who foresees which increases efficiency in rechargeable batteries, and there 8% 5 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum eventual wide use of the unit in swine breeding operations. The Purchase arc several brands available, the animal industry. nonpregnant sow can be culled (F.B.S. only) according to Hogburg. Developed by researchers at from the herd much earlier than Despite its initial cost, the 8%% 10 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase the University of Illinois several before, saving the breeder about detector pays for itself when used years ago, the device is just now $20 per sow in feed costs. properly. "Any herd of over 60 9% 15 Year Maturity $100.00 Minimum Purchase gaining popularity. The unit may be used as an sows 'can justify the expenditure, Here's how it works: The unit early indicator of reproductive and several producers have 8~% 10 Year Maturity $1,000.00 Minimum Purchase bounces high frequency sound problems in the herd, and bought them together to cut waves off the layers of skin, fat, guarantees pregnancy in gilts costs," he adds. 9~% 15 Year Maturity $5,000.00 Minimum Purchase MFB supports land use bill Interest paid annually on September 1st. The purchaser to be offered the option to receive their interest in quarterly payments on September 1st, December Is-t, March 1st, and The Michigan House geographic and agricultural or on an interim basis by the June 1st. Interest would start the date of purchase. Appropriations Committee has rep_resentation. It would ~ SLUC, utility projects or projects voted to postpone discussion on responsible for development of a conducted by state and local This is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation to buy these Substitute HB 4234. Substitute HB statewide land use plan for governments with public monies securities. The offering is made only by the prospectus. 4234 is a land use bill sponsored by Rep. Philip Mastin (D-Hazel Park>. Substitute H.B. 4234 is con- consideration and approval or rejection by the Governor and Legislature. would be subject to SLUe ap- proval if they occurred within an essential land area. Projects of private persons using private ---------------------------- Clip and mail this c:oupon to: Mr. C. A. Morrill FaRm~ ,.,.,0-. ... Farm Bureau Services, Inc. sistent with current Michigan Townships and counties could Farm Bureau policy on land use. prepare their own land use plans money would not be subject to SLUC .approval even if within an Farmers Petroleum Cooperatlye, Inc. P. O. Box "0 BlJr9aU-= _....., __ Contrary to much of the in- to identify essential land areas. essential land area. Lansi,"" Michigan 48'04 ~ ~ formation disseminated by 0p.- . Essential land areas would be In effect, Substitute H.B. 4234is I would Jik_ a copy of the prospectus and a ~II by a .... is- tered sales .,_nt, ponents, the bill would not zone or identified. These areas would a sterile planning bill and does restrict private uses of privately include land considered essential not give zoning authority over Name _ owned land. for agriculture, forestry, private uses of private lands. RFD No. _ Road If enacted, Substitute H.B. 4234 minerals, unique areas s~h as Also, it does not require local Ctty _ wetlands, wildlife, etc., and governments to implement their county -- would create a 9-member State Phone _ Land Use Commission (SLUC). historical preservation. Once land use plansthrough zoning or ______ --.Ll. ...uII I .. ....A_ TIle Commission would have both identified by local governments any other regulatory device. PAGE 6 MICHIGAN FARM ~EWS MAY 1, 1976 Around the state with Farm Bureau -- - • .... _ - - . ... ~ i ~ ~ -- .... :t- -' -...\ - M. J. Buscblen of MASApoints out trends in farm labor to Barry County group during series of special meetiags held around the state on farm labor and government regulations. Members of the Feeder Pig Operations Committee attending were (clockwise from top) Bill Haas, MACMA; Ken Warner; Ken Bredabl; Matt McConnell; George Portice; and Murray Turnipseed. Chairman. St. Clair County Farm Bureau held a grand opening in April of their new county office and FBS outlet. Shown from left are Carl Tice, county FBS manager; Carl McCormick. coullty-president; Ron Popps county FPC manager; and Jim Cronin. county membership chair- Oman. Group purchasing in coming to MFR. Attending a recent Safemark 'product orientation meeting in Lansing are (from left) MFB staffen . Jesse Taggart. Gene Greenawalt. James Wickizer, general manager of AFBF Service Co.• James Paulson of Electric Storage Battery Co. and Chuck Burkett. MFB director of field operation. The Safemark group purchasing concept was introduced to county executive committees at the April series of cabinet meetings. The time table will be for explanation of the program starting at May county board meetings, followed by the appointment of county group purchasing committees. This process will be followed by obtaining potential dealers located by marketing area, with the plan that these dealen be established and maintaining an inventory by September first. The success of this program depends on the participation of tile ~ounty membership, the involvement aad dedicaUOII01 tile ~_ty committees. and the selection of the local dealen who llerVe tile members. Serving memben OBlywitb the best quallty merchandise at • Elmer and Rachel MicheH were plenty happy at the Osceola CCMlnty, the best possible price -'5 the goal 01 the Safemark IJ'08P parcballDl victory party. They are cOUDtymembersblp chairmen. prognm. MAY 1, 1976 PAGE 7 Senate committee approves bill to continue P.A. 344 A bill that will allow the Michigan to the floor of the Senate. Legislative Counsel AI Almy- pointed out were MACMA General Manager Noel Agricultural Marketing and Bargaining Senator John C. Hertel, chairman (D- that P.A. 344recognizes the need and right Stuckman, Harry Foster, manager of Act (P.A. 344) to be extended beyond its Harper Woods), Senator Richard J. Allen farmers have to organize for marketing Michigan Asparagus Growers and Tom September 1, 1976 expiration date was (R-Alma) and Senator John R. Otter- and. bargaining purposes. Butler, manager of Michigan Processing reported out of the Senate Agriculture and bacher (D-Grand Rapids) all voted to "Farmers have just as much need for Apple Growers .. Consumer Mfairs Committee April 14. report the bill out of committee. They were marketing and bargaining legislation Over 50farm people ignored ideal spring After hearing two hours of testimony the only members of the five-man com- today as they did in 1972when P .A. 344was plowing and planting weather to attend the from supporters and opponents' of S.B. mittee present. first passed by the legislature," Almy hearing. 1332,the committee voted to report the bill Speaking in support of the bill, -MFB said .. Chief opposition came from processors Also testifying in support of S.B. 1332 and canners and their association. Special farm vehicles exempt from registration Gov. William G. Milliken designed and used exclusively for Low cost health plan offered signed into law HB 4795 (I.E.>, the purpose of transporting farm In action taken at the February Directors approved the offering of services when they are amending the Motor Vehicle crops from the field to the .place meeting, the State Board Qf of a new lower cost health care utilized. For example: a member Code to exempt special farm of storage." \ plan to be provided by Blue Cross would pay 30 percent of each vehicles used only during harvest The exemption applies to an Cook Books and Blue Shield of Michigan. hospital admission for each person on the contract up to a operations from registration and title certification requirements. estimated 2,500vehicles although Started by A special open period in July maximum of $600.00. For "This new law eliminates the the number could be higher since Farm Wives will enable eligible members to professional services a sub- need for farmers to pay ex- many have been unregistered American housewives, today choose between the present level _ scriber would pay 30 percent of pensive registration costs for and unlicensed in the past. The of coverage and the more limited the Blue Shield customary and accustomed to obtaining most trucks used only a few weeks law also may exempt some of their cooking needs from a benefit but lower cost Ecol!,9. reasonable fee paid to the doctor each year," Milliken said. "The farmers from the federal use well-stocked supermarket, Plan. The effective date of tfie . for his services. special identification fee of $15 taxes they are now required to would have been dire straits in new program, for those signing A complete comparison of the will apply only to vehicles pay. the Revolutionary period. To- up in July, will be-August 20, 1976. benefits of the present and new day.s foods are pre-cooked, Lower rates are achieved by plan will appear in the June issue convenienced packed and al- the subscriber sharin~ in the cost of the Farm News. Farm Bureau most ready to serve. A far cry from what the colonial house- wife faced when mealtime on the air The following radio stations WPHM Port Huron rolled around. Her menu was seriously limited to what was available locally and this fact is one carry Accent Agriculture, a 131h WSGW Saginaw that has lead to the variety of minute public affairs program WIDG S1. Ignace localized specialties placed on focusing on the issues and events WRBJ St. Johns the table in various parts of affecting Michigan farmers and WSTR Sturgis the nation. Sausage and consumers. WJOR South Haven scrapple were Pennsylvania WIOS Tawas City specials; seafood along the WATC Gaylord WBMB West Branch Chesapeake Bay: ham in Vir- WFYC Alma WMIC Sandusky. ginia and lobster stew in New WCSR Hillsdale England. WMPC Lapeer WION Ionia WJML Petoskey To prepare food was usually WALM Albion WKLA Ludington WHMI Howell an ~xperience in innovation. There were few cookbooks in Every fanner WlVB Coldwater WOAP Owosso Farm News In-Depth is an in- depth report on the issues affecting the colonies. Women who came up with a good recipe carefully kept it recorded and should o\¥n WBRN Big Rapids WABJ Adrian Michigan farmers. It .is a two minute program carried daily. exchanged with other women those which brought them the a bank WCER Charlotte WCBY Cheboygan WCRM Clare WKAR East Lansing most compliments from family and friends. of his own. WKPR Kalamazoo When collections of recipes WHGR Houghton Lake WFYC Alma WMAM Marinette began to appear in books there WHFB Benton Harbor were also tips on preserving WAGN Menominee WPAG Ann Arbor and salvaging food. Modern WSTR Sturgis WCER Charlotte housewives, with abundant WSMA Marine City WHAK Rogers City supplies of low cost food over WKYO Caro WKPR Kalamazoo the yehrs, would find it easier WDOW Dowagiac WLKM Three Rivers to dispose of food than do WIDG St. Ignace WFUR Gram Rapids what some colonial wives did liKe all ag cooperatives. the Farm Credit Banks of St. Paul WCSR Hillsdale WNIL Niles to save food. A tip in one old are owned by the people they serve ...farmers. ranchers and WJPW Rockfocd WXOX Bay Ci~ their cooperatives in Michigan. Minnesota, North Dakota and cookbook listed this method of WGN Chicago Wisconsin. And no matter how much you borrow. you get the WSOO Sault Ste. Marie saving tainted venison: very same voting strength as others. WNIL Niles WWJ Detroit "Bury it in the ground in a WMIC Sandusky WLDR-FM Traverse City clean cloth for a whole night Your vote helps elect fellow farmers to the board of directors WSMM-FM ~ult Ste. Marie WMTE Mamstee and it will take away the of your Production Credit Association, Federal Land Bank WWAM Cadillac corruption, savour and stink. ,. Association and cooperatives. These boards, in turn, elect a WION Ionia , WBCH Hastings board for the Farm Credit Banks of St. Paul. And every farmer- WJML Petoskey Those who found sugar an member has a voice on the national level through a represen- WLDR Traverse City WAOP Otsego expensive item Qn the shopp- WCEN Mount Pleasant tative on the Federal Farm Credit Board. WRBJ St. Johns ing list recently were at least WLRC White Hall WOBe Escanaba able to find it. It was a scarce Cooperatives have been a part of rural America for a long WPLB Greenville WDMJ Marquette item in colonial America. time ... helping individual farmers and ranchers compete suc- WLRC White HaU Molasses. too, was expensive cessfully in a highly-organized business world. WTRX Flint WKNR BattIe Creek WGHN Gram Haven and the honey business had The cooperative Farm Credit System has helped in that WSHN Fremont WPHM Port Huron not yet developed here. As a effort. It's like giving every farmer the key to America's ag- WLEW Bad Axe WCMR Elkhart, Ind. result, early Americans were ricultural banking system. WCRM Clare WJBL Holland not used to sweet foods as we WABJ Adrian know them today. Farm News Today is a 2~ WTHM Lapeer FAIIM Chopped apples. berries. minute program for Michigan WKZO Kalamazoo pulp. from near the seeds in farmers heard daily over these WSGW Saginaw squash and pumpkin provided COOPERA~~~ stations and the Michiga-n Farm WHFB Benton Harbor ~ sweetness and a special taste Radio Network. WPAG Ann Arbor WPLB Greenville WHGR Houghton Lake WKYO Caro to colonial cakes. Agrifacts ... ClEln WBCM Bay City WKYO Caro WCER Charlotte- WBMB West Branch WOAP Owosso M:F'RN Milan WBCM Bay City The farmer always had to contend with the weather. The year without summer 1816. Ice formed one-half inch was BAlKS OF ST. PAUL Federal Intermediate Credit Bank (for your PCA) WCRM Clare Federal Land Bank (for your FLBA) WTVB Coldwater WSTR Sturgis thick in Mav; a three-inch Bank for Cooperatives (for your cooperatives) WJCB Gladwin snow fell in J~ne and ice was WDBC Escanaba still one-eighth inch thick in 375 Jaekson St., St. Paul, MN 55101/Phone: (612) 725-7722 WHTC Holland WVOY Charlevoix July. P:A"GE 8 1976 The Washington legislative • seminar by Marcia Ditchie Farm News -photographer The news media was watching as MFB members took off for the nation's capital. For the 16th consecutive year., a selected group of Michigan Farm Bureau members traveled to Washington, D.C. to discuss Farm Bureau policies and some current issues before Congress with Michigan's Congressional delegation. As part of the 1976Washington Legislative Seminar, 45county leaders were chosen by their counties as '''Legislative Leaders'~ who spent March 29-April 1 in the .nation's capitol discussing such key issues as estate tax reform, food stamp reform and export controls. Prior to leaving Lansing's Capitol City Airport, a news conference was held with local news media to explain Farm Bureau's support of the Burleson-Curtis Bill which would up-date the provisions in the current federal estate tax law. Once in. Washington, the Legislative Leaders itinerary for meeting with their Congressmen included the Republican and Democratic breakfasts. One of the key issues discussed at the breakfasts by the Legislative Leaders and the Congressmen was estate tax reform which would provide vital revisions needed if family farms are to survive. The leaders stressed the need for raising the estate tax exemption from $60,000to $200,000and pointed out that the last revision in the exemption clause was made in 1942. Michigan Congressmen who are sponsoring the bill include Guy Van- derJagt (R-Muskegon), Garry Brown (R-SchoolcrafO, Marvin Esch (R-Ann Arbor), Ed Hufchinson (R-St. Joseph), James O'Hara (D-Utica), Robert Traxler (D-Bay City), and Elford A. Cederberg (R-AlmaL Congressmen attending the two breakfasts. were Senator Robert Griffin and Congressmen Guy VanderJagt, Edward Hutchinson, Philip Ruppe, Elford Cederberg, Garry Brown, William Broomfield, James O'Hara, Robert Traxler and Robert Carr. Representatives from Senator Philip Hart, and Congressmen Marvin Esch, Donald Secretary Butz and l\1FB President Elton Smith confer at USDA. Hiegle, and Richard Vander Veen's offices a~ attended. The t.cgislative leaders also :visit~CongtteSsional offices, sat in on various committee hearings and visit-ed with U.S. Department of Agriculture officials, including Secretary Butz. The four-day seminar provided Michigan farmers with the opportunity to meet with their Congressional representatives on a personal basis to discuss issues which are of impo.rtance to farmers at the grass-roots level and provide a continuation of Michigan Farm Bureau's policy development and policy execution process . . The Washington Legislative Seminar is sponsored each year by Farm Bureau Women to make possible this contact between Michigan farmers and their elected represen- tatives. Young Farmer vice chairman Bob Rottier was interviewed by Booth Newspapers reporter ROD Cordray at the National Press Club. WILX-TV Lansing-Jackson interviewed Ingham County's Jan McMicbael on the estate tax reform Austin Bowman, AUegan County , said a major function of operating farmers. treated water will not be fully The new program was product to start flowing. the board is to analyze supply and The short lived April trucking realized until a softener is put in inaugurated at a special meeting New Oil Well - FPC is excited demand conditions and recom- strike did take an economic toll operation. held for all FPC dealers on with the new Southern Illinois mend to USDA the total quantity and delayed supplies at a crucial Buildings made by Farm- March 16. All dealers agreed to discovery well that came in. of cherries that may be shipped time. If you still haven't suf- Bureau Building Centers are an unprecedented system of Daily production will be modest, under the marketing order ficient fertilizer, your Farm taking a spurt. Both commercial advertising one price and having but good reserves are indicated. during specified time. periods. Bureau dealer is your best bet, as and farm buildings, including uniform low prices on tires New Fuel. Tire, Accessory This helps stabilize supplies and Farm Bureau dealer supplies are livestock systems, are handled. throughout the state at all FPC Stores - The Caro FPC Grand prevent market shortages and being replaced as quickly as Feeds - The Feed Department's outlets. Promotions will be forth- Opening on March 25 was suc- gluts. possible. Farmer Feed Meetings have coming covering the new Cash " cessful. Over $19,000 worth of The board consists of 12 continued with excellent farmer Carry ad*tages. An insert wiD supplies were sold. Over 1,500 members - six producers and six Pesticidft" - We beat the an- turn outs and many signing up for herron in the MICHIGAN FARM handlers - with an alternate for ticipated transportation crunch people attended and new patrons feed delivery at guaranteed NEWS. The same inserts will be cORtinue to increase business. each. The marketing order, Mr. in the area of herbicides~ in- prices, including price ad- available for dealer use in Dever explained, specifies a Emmett's FPC Grand Opening secticides and fungicides by vantages if prices drop. These newspapers, shoppers guides and three-year term of office, with recorded similar success on getting FBS dealers to take suppfies early. Dealers have a meetings- have been popular all across the state. for mailings, etc. Radio and other promotions will be utilized and March 30-31 with new business terms of one-third the members expiring each year. still coming in steadily. PAGE 13 Farm itisurance rate is going up Just about every insurance reason is inflation. When loss the fact that inflation has hit the ftom January 1971 to January inoperable for reasons specified company operating in Michigan - payments and building repair building industry harder than 1976. The cost for lumber alone in the policy. including FaI:m Bureau costs balloon because of inflation, most of the economy. For increased 86 percent during this The same inflationary factors Insurance Group - is being the premiums collected are no example, the Government's period. that are driving up farm in- forced to raise farm insurance longer adequate to pay losses and Index of Wholesale Prices shows These factors, coupled with surance rates are also forcing rates. expenses. that the cost of construction heavy windstorm losses in 1975, companies to increase auto rates. Why the increase? The major The situation is worsened by materials increased 57 percent are forcing FBIG and insurance Like almost every insurance companies throughout Michigan company in the nation, FBIG will to raise rates for farm insurance. be increasing rates for auto in- FBIG, the largest farm insurer surance because of skyrocketing Know the law in the state, will raise rates for its automobile part and repair costs. Farmowners insurance, but the Consider this: The cost to fix an amount of increase will vary in automobile that cost $4,500 new individual cases. Despite the would exceed $20,000 if it were increase, farmers will have the. replaced piece by piece through chance to reduce their Far- repair shops. Another fact: mowners premiums by assuming Among the parts most commonly a greater part of a loss through damaged in a collision are higher deductibfes. bumpers, grills and fenders. ~hroughout the property in- From 1971to mid-1975, the price surance industry, losses are of these parts jumped more than mounting and putting the squeeze 60 percent. on insurance companies, leaving In December 1972,the average no alternative but to raise rates cost -per collision paid by Farm to meet future claims and ex- Bureau Mutual Insurance was penses. $322.In other words, this was the But along with the bad news of company's cost, on the average, How wide is too wide when inflation, FBIG has some good to repair an automobile after an moving farm -equipment on news about its Farmowners accident. public roads? This farm wife program. As a new addition to By June 1975, this aver;-age cost Found out. Farmowners coverage, farmers had risen to $562. A study of the will now have the opportunity to table below shows how - auto add coverage that will pay for repair costs paid by Farm farm equipment rental when a farmer's machinery becomes (Co~tinued on J'age 15) Heritage of 76 rours July 24- August 1, 1976 August 14-22,1976 September 11-18,1976 (Depart and return from Detroit) TOUR ITINERARY - Q. Recently, I was stopped for moving equipment which was over Saturday - ~ly American Airlines non-stop from Detroit to Boston. width. I must move my equipment - What can I do? Sunday - Tour of Boston, Bunkerhill, Frigate Constitution, Lexington A. The Michigan Vehicle Code in Section 717(b) states, "The total and Concord. outside width of a farm tractor or any farm implement or machinery shall not exceed [86 inches. Any agricultural im- Monday - Tour to Plymouth, Plymouth Rock, library of John Q. plement wider than 108 inches shall not be moved on the highway Adams and birthplace of John Hancock. between the hours of sunset and sunrise." - Also required in Section 711 (f) , No vehicle or farm tractor. farm Tuesday - Fly to Philadelphia to visit the restored buildings and sights implement or machinery shall extend beyond the centerline- of of America'so'birthplace of liberty and freedom. Tour Valley Forge any state trucking highway except when legally authorized by enroute to Arlington, Virginia. law. There are provisions for obtaining a permit to transport over size Wednesday - Sightseeing to include government buildings with stop at the Whitehouse and Mt. Vernpn. or weight vehicles. Section 725 authorizes ~ssuance of permits by the State Highway Department or County Road Commission for movement of vehicles in excess of size or weight limitations. - Thursday - Entire day at leisure for you to visit Smitsonian Institute Library of Congress, etc. ' Section 688(g) also requires that when operated on the highway. every vehicle which has a maximum po&ential of 25 mph., im- Friday - Special buses to Williamsburg, Va. Tickets'provided for visit plement of husbandry, farm tractor or special mobile .equJp~ent to attractions. shall be identified with reOective device - a slow ,movIng vehIcle emblem