l \ PAGE 2 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1979 From the Desk of the President Losing Where We Should Be Winning world. However, agriculture started to show that they have or farm level, and at the can be successful only as long had enough of taxation and retail leveL'" as America is successful. inflation. That's the reason Anyone vaguely familiar But, I have a deep concern behind the so called "tax with agriculture knows that for America! I have that revolt" taking place in any downward manipulation concern because we are America. I am sure President of prices at retail level goes losing where we should be Carter realized that when he back to the farmer in lower (EdHor'sNote: The followIng are winning. We are losing in the announced his "Anti-inflation excerpts from the presIdent's prices. areas of competition and Plan. " I am sure he also President Carter recently annual address to voting delegates at the 59th MIchIgan productivity. recognized that we are losing announced the Feed Grain farm Bureau annual m.etlng In This is not only my opinion. many of our foreign markets Set-aside program for 1979. Grand RapIds on November 29.) It is demonstrated by the because of inflation. He knew He stated the program was to plummeting value of the U.S. that Korea is buying Egyp- encourage farmers to set- dollar. It is reflected by our tian cotton rather than aside 20 percent of their I have a special concern to mounting trade deficit. It is American cotton. He could acreage, but provided in- share with you -- a concern of demonstrated by a greater see the electronic industry in centive to farmers to reduce which I am more conscious, probably, because having been to Geneva twice this year to be briefed on of productivity increase, per capita, in other countries than is being experienced in this nation. Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan outstripping that industry in the United States. President Carter also knew \fni~ acreage by only 10 percent. Stuart Eizenstat, President's Chief Domestic Policy Advisor, estimated the trade negotiations going on And the sad part about the our trade deficit was growing that feed grain prices may there, and then just recently ~~ /I1f},£F ~Ulh/YJeAIT situation is, we have the know every month. He surely was rise about 4 to 5 percent by returned from a trade tour in how, the resources and the aware £h~t, in toe past year, P,4l1l1'llUlr ~.73~~Q 1980.This compares with Mr. Russia. ability to be the leader. of American agriculture had making to controlling in- Carter's allowable guidelines I have a concern for So why are we slippi~ record foreign; HIes of $27 flation. Whilehe said that raw . of up to 9.5 percent price America. American behind .i~ competition and billIon doHarIii 'lifhout agricultural products would increase for companies and a agriculture has been the productIv~ty? There are two agricultural exports, this be exempted from voluntary , 7 percent wage increase per shining exanlple of success reasons, tIed closely together. country would be in more guidelines, other ad- year. It appears Mr. Carter throughout the world. Its They are inflation and ex- serious trouble if not ministration spokesmen wants agriculture to be the efficiency is unmatched c e s s i v ego v ern men t bankrupt. ' stated that, "Factors af- lone.fighter of inflation. anywhere. It has helped regulation. However, Mr. Carter fecting food prices will be Meanwhile, what is being make America the strongest In the past year, the seemed to ignore the con- carefully monitored, done by government to curb and greatest nation in the citizens of this country tributions farmers are especially at raw commodity, (Continued on Page 26) OIJ.;ectively Speaking ... • • • I Each year, Michigan Farm been for the woman who Bureau staff people are challenged the vote, the assigned to a region during organization would have been the membership drive to help stuck whh the joke Jor inspire, enthuse - nag, even -- .another year. A tip of the and provide special help in editorial bonnet to her! making goal. I try not to take unfair Murray Miles, Director of advantage of the others by Information for the Ten- using the FARM NEWS as a forum to spur my region on to victory and I've done a pretty nessee Farm Federation, has a thought worth sharing. Every time Bureau OONNA good job of resisting that the news breaks that food temptation. HOWEVER ... prices will increase, those of year, " says Murray. "When When a region actually us in agriculture begin to gasoline went up another two stages a noisy demonstration -make our usual excuses about cents a gallon, the big oil on the delegate floor at an- the fact that food is stili a companies didn't hav~ their nual meeting, interrupting bargain, says Murray. Even public relations represen- the serious proceedings - it's though this is a true tatives down at the pumps to NEWS and can hardly be statement, he says he's tell you they were sorry. They ignored. The fact that it was beginning to wonder if this is knew what their price MY region that had the not some kind of apology. structure was, and they took initiative, daring and spirit to "It might just be that those action. " carry it out is beside the of us in agriculture ought to The real culprit in rising point. stop apologizing for the price food prices is not the farmers With bazookas tooting and "Rrst Over the Une In .79" proclaImed West Central I.ad.rs, of food going up. When you go nor the middlemen, nor the banners proclaiming: "West who staged a demonstratIon on th. del.gat. IIoor In Grand in to buy a new car, you don't retailer, Murray said. The Central -- First Over the Line RapIds. see any big signs around the culprit is inflation and that in '79" and determined show room from the car blam'e can be laid right at the delegates from Newaygo, makers telling you how sorry door of Congress who con- Oceana, Mason, Mecosta, President Smith -- in a race to at this year's annual meeting they are that the models are tinues to tax, tax, tax, and Osceola and Muskegon make membership goal first. was the resolution on Equal up $200to $300more than last spend. spend, spend. shouting "We're No.1!", the After checking with his Opportunities for Women. demonstrators took the floor. Regional Representative Jim State P.D. Committee MICHIGAN FARM NEWS Their timing was appropriate Westbrook, President Smith member Jeanette Houghton The Michigan FARM NEWS is Eisenmann. Blissfield. R.l; District 3, published monthly, on the first day, by Andrew Jackson. Howell. R.l; District - immediately following the accepted the challenge. presented the resolution to the Michigan Farm Bureau Information 4, Elton R. Smith, Caledonia, R.l; adoption of the resolution on Satisfied with the results of the delegate body and Division. Publication and Editorial offices at 7373West Saginaw Highway, District 5. William Spike, Owosso. R-3; District 6. Jack Laurie, Cass City, R-3; Membership Growth. their demonstration, District President Smith called for the Lansing, Michigan 48909. Post Office Distlrct 7, Robert Rider. Hart, R.l; District 8, Larry DeVuyst, Ithaca, R.4; President Elton Smith Director Bob Rider and vote. A loud chorus of male Box 30960.Telephone,Lansing (517)323, lOOO, Extension 508.Subscription price. District 9, Donald Nugent, Frankfort, R. banged his gavel and Regional Rep Pat Lause led "NOs" led the chair to 80 cents per year. Publication No. 1; District 10. Richard Wieland, ~. Ellsworth. R.l; District 11. Franklin demanded to know the the participants back to their declare that the motion lost. Established January 13. 1923.Second. Schwlderson. Dafter. meaning of this unusual seats and the business at With the speed of light, a class postagepaid at LanSing.Mi. and at additional mailing offices. DIRECTORS AT LARGE: Walter conduct occurring on the hand. woman delegate got to the EDITORIAL: Donna Wilber. Editor; Frahm, Frankenmuth; Michael Pridgeon, Montgomery; Robert Rottler:, delegate floor. Gary Car- Objectively reporting, it mike and asked for a division Marcia DUchie. Associate Editors. Connie Lawson. Newaygo. michael, Osceola County was a refreshing change of of the house. OFFICERS: Michigan Farm Bureau; WOMEN OF FARM BUREAU: Mrs. Young Farmer Chairman, pace and a real spirit-builder It wasn't even necessary to President. Elton R. Smith. Galedonia.R. Andrew Jackson. Howell. R.4. 1; Vice President, Jack Laurie, Cass FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS: approached the mike and was for everyone within hearing count the hands. The City; Administrative Director. Robert David Conklin, Corunna. recognized. With bravado, he distance of the Grand Rapids resolution passed by quite a Braden. Lansing; Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Max D. Dean; POSTMAST'ER: In using form 3579. threw out a challenge: the Civic Auditorium. margin. The fellows were Secretary, William S. Wilkinson. mail to: Michigan Farm News. 7373 DIRECTORS: District 1, Arthur West Saginaw Highway. LanSing. West Central against the only joking when they Bailey, Schoolcraft; District 2, Lowell MiChigan 48909. West Region - home of Another unusual happe~ing shouted "NO." But if it hadn't JANUARY, 1979 FARM NEWS PAGE 3 Policies Reflect Current Farmer Concerns, Set Aggressive Activity Direction for '79 Voting delegates to the 59thannual meeting of the Michigan "They intend to do something about percent from 1978levels and Farm Bureau were described by veteran legislative counsel therefore discourages par- those concerns through their organiza- ticipation. They asked that Robert E. Smith as conscientious and knowledgeable, with an awareness of how agriculture is affected by a broad range of tion. " the AFBF work vigorously issues. with Congress and USDA to "They gave careful consideration to each resolution, not Robert E. Smith obtain changes in the 1979 only those dealing with strictly agricultural issues, but also program. MFB Legislative Counsel fInancial issues, taxation, health, crime - all the many things Another important area which are of concern to farmers," Smith said. "And they in- that the delegates addressed tend to do something about those concerns - through their was farmer access to foreign organization. " markets through farmer Concern for net farm in- resolution on the state cooperatives. They indicated come was reflected in many agricultural marketing and tha t coopera ti ves should of the nearly 100 resolutions bargaining legislation which increase their share of export dealing with state issues, the has proved successful for the sales to enhance member 31 national and international crops which the act covers. income and encouraged their recommendations (which The delegates said it should cooperatives to develop were forwarded to the be amended to include other direct export capabilities American Farm Bureau crops and commodities through mergers and joint Federation Policy produced in the state. efforts with other co-ops. Development Committee), There were resolutions A strongly-worded and the 30 recommendations calling for continued and resolution on federal for their Farm Bureau expanded promotion of marketing and bargaining organization. There were agricultural commodities and legislation was approved. The innova ti ve ideas for coordination of some of the delegates asked that the enhancing farm income and check-off programs for more enactment of a com- calls for aggressive action to efficiency. Research was one J prehensive national relieve the cost-price squeeze issue on which the delegates .. agricultural bargaining act of which farmers find were unanimous, as they Voting d.legat •• John Cooleand Jim ErwIn 01 Ooldand County have priority in the Farm themselves the major vic- recognized that only through discuss one 01 the resolutions •. Bureau organization. tims. basic research can Michigan Another area the delegates agriculture compete with for this," Smith said, "is. that aside program should in- addressed was government STATE agriculture in other states. many of us remember the clude. spending and inflation. They They also stressed the need time when property taxes They asked that the set- stated a strong belief that the POLICIES for a continued strong were used for these purposes aside program be announced best method of controlling One of the most important Extension Service to bring and they were a great burden. at least six months in ad- inflation is the elimination of issues on the slate of policies farmers the results of Then we went to the highway vance of the planting season federal deficit and asked for a adopted by the delegates - research. user tax and the delegates for the crops covered to allow Constitutional amendment and one of the most complex Delegates were unanimous think that should be con- producers to make planting that would require the and challenging as far as in their decision that the tinued." decisions and to attract Congress to operate on a execution is concerned, Smith selection of the director of the The Crop Reporting Service enough participation to make balanced budget each year. believes is Workers state Department of was recognized by delegates it effective. They also supported a Con- Compensation. The Michigan Agriculture should continue as essential but in need of They also insisted that stitutional amendment to Legislature has been con- to be made by a state com- some changes to make it diversion payments be made, restrict the tax authority of sidering a rewrite of the act mission on agriculture. more effective for farmers. available to producers who the federal government to a for more than two years, and "Farm - Bureau ac- Much discussion was comply with the set-aside to realistic percentage of the farmer concern grows as yet complished this many years devoted to a resolution on the offset overhead costs on set- gross national product. In this another increase in ago, removing this dePart- posting of moisture shrinkage aside acres, such as taxes and regard, it would be similar to premiums has recently been ment from the political tables in elevators. Grain interest, and provide a the Headlee Amendment requested. pressures that are involved," farmers, especially, find that margin of return on land which voters approved in "The resolution adopted by Smith explained. "We don't these tables, while they exist, investment. Michigan. the delegates is a com- want to see the sfate regress are not made public. With regard to the 1979feed The delegates asked that prehensive one containing to the point where we go back Delegates felt that every grain set-aside, the delegates Congress ideas they thought should be to the old 'spoils system' of farmer ought to be able to were deeply disturbed and restraint inshow a greater passing laws of incorporated in the Workers selecting dir,ectors of look at the elevator board to registered their concern that broad implication and Compensation Act that will departments and agencies." see what the shrinkage table it reduces diversion Delegates said user taxes authority was for his particular crop. payments by as much as 50 down specific guidelines and and, instead, lay eliminate some of the fraud we know exists and the high should continue to be used for restraints on the agencies costs," Smith said. highway construction and (See center section for full text of adopted state which administer laws. Delegates passed a maintenance. "The reason policies.) I "The reso IutlOns . on national issues, as approved by the delegates to the NATIONAL, Michigan Farm Bureau annual meeting, are only INTERNATIONAL recommendations to the There was a great deal of American Farm Bureau," explained Al Almy, director discussion and consideration of public affairs. "At this given to government farm point, the resolutions will go programs. The delegates to the AFBF Resolutions adopted a resolution con- Committee. They will go tinuing a long-standing through them, along with position that farmers should those received from the other receive their income from the state Farm Bureaus, and marketplace rather than present a slate of policy from government and recommendations to the government programs. delegates at the AFBF annual They did, however, meeting in Florida in early recognize that in times of January." burdensome surpluses, it might be necessary for a set- Michigan's recommend- aside program. They went on ations on national and in- record as favoring the ef- ternational affairs are fecti ve use of set-aside Howard Ehenho.h 01 Saginaw available to county Farm K.lth Ramthun, Mu.k.gon County d.I.gat., Ie•• p. hi. authority and spelled out in County .xpre •••• on opinion Bureaus and others upon _Cft'ufM'U baftlr UD 10 date willa am.ndm.nts. some detail what the set- during th. resolutIons s.sslon. request. PAGE 4 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1979 400 Michiganders to Attend AFBF Annual Nearly 400 Michigan Farm Bureau members will be In Miami Beach. Florida, January 14-18, for tho American Farm Bureau Federation's 60th annual mooting. They will bo among tho 10,000 farmers and ranchers from throughout tho nation who aro expected to attend tho gonorol sessions and many other scheduled activities. Keynote speakers for tho mooting aro Ronald Reagan, former governor of California, and Ambassador Robert Strauss. President Carter's special representative for trade negotiations and special counselor on Inflation. Both aro scheduled to appear on Tuesday's program. Voting delegates to tho AFBF annual mooting from Michigan aro: Elton R. Smith, Caledonia; John Laurie, Cass City; Lowell Bsonmann. BllssHeld; Donald Nugent, Frankfort, and Andrew Jackson, Howell. MAFC Holds Annual Meeting The Michigan Association good possibility, but warned must be developed and the of Farmer Cooperatives that it is unlikely that solar only way to do that, he (MAFC) held its annual energy will be used to believes, is with less meeting at the Lansing Hilton generate electricity in our government regulation. Inn on December 8. lifetime. He did say, however, Also appearing on the One of the featured "You people in agriculture MAFC annual meeting speakers at the meeting was are going to raise water with program was Donald Ralph L. Lewis, Jr., Vice it, you're going to dry crops Wilkinson, Governor of the President of Gulf Oil Cor- with it, and you're going to Farm Credit Administration poration, New Orleans. In heat and cool those things in Washington, D.C. addressing the 230 people in necessary for your produc- attendance, Lewis warned tion. I can assure you solar Three cooperative leaders the U.S. in running out of oil (energy) is going to be in your were honored with the 1978 and government regulation is business in a big way. It's MAFC Leadership Awards at preventing the development going to be a big business, but the meeting for their con- of alternative fuels. He it won't be handled by the oil tributions in promoting further added that two-thirds companies." Michigan cooperatives. of America's oil is still in the The best long-term hope for Combined, the three honorees ground, but government energy-generation is fusion, have over 100 years of service * . * < controls prevent the oil says Lewis, but it will be at to cooperatives in Michigan. companies from getting it least 20 years before fusion Those recognized were \ out. generation is perfected. George Southworth of Elkton, DONALD WILKINSON RALPH L. LEWIS, JR. Lewis says that in the Carl C. Johnson of Pierson Referring to solar energy, meantime the abundance of and Dr. Cyril Spike of Lewis stated that it is another alternative fuels in the U.S. Owosso. **—u George Southworth, Elkton, was recognised Dr. Cyril Spike, Owosso, receives a plaque Carl C. Johnson, Pierson. Is prosontod a plaque from at tho MAFC annual for his nearly 50 years of from Frank Carpenter In honor of his many Frank Carpenter for his community and cooperative sorvlco to cooperatives In Michigan. Frank years of sorvlco to Michigan cooperatives. activities. Carpenter (right) prosontod tho award. JANUARY, 1979 FARM NEWS PAGE 5 MDA Director Ball Retires . • • • B. Dale Ball, Director of the American International Agri- admiration for Michigan assure . tha t Michig~n Michigan Department of 0 Trade Council. He organized agriculture and its leaders, agriculture, will thrive In Agriculture for the past 13 the first U.S. agricultural and plans to be available for generations to come," he years, has announced that he trade mission to the People's assistance to the agri- said. Preservation of plans to retire in March, 1979. Republic of China in 1978, business community Michigan's essential Ball has served MDA for 28 involving agricultural following his retirement. agricultural land and in- years in various positions, leaders from several states "Agriculture is one of ternational trade in Michigan including 12 years as MDA's and the federal government. Michigan's most important farm products are two of his top deputy director prior to Now 63, Ball said since assets, and I plan to devote major concerns, he ex- his appointment as Director entering government service, time in my retirement to plained. in October 1965. he planned to retire at age 60, Ball has won numerous in 1975. However, at that awards for outstanding time, the department was MFB Commends Ball for service to agriculture during deeply involved in resolving his career, including the PBB problem. "Lifetime of Service" Michigan Farm Bureau's "Retirement at that time Elton R. Smith, president of impact, not only within our "Distinguished Service to might have been interpreted Michigan Farm Bureau, own state, but also nationally Agriculture" award in 1969. by some that the department responded to Ball's an- and internationally." He has served as president had not handled its respon- _ nounced retirement with a of the National Association of sibilities properly," Ball said. commendation for his President Smith said the State Departments of "My retirement goal then "lifetime of service to the Farm Bureau organization Agriculture. He was ap- became 1977, at age 62," the agricultural industry." commends Ball for his pointed chairman of a task director said. "But with PBB B. DALE BALL In a statement to news "multitude of contributions to force on food laws to work still a controversial issue in media, Smith said: "Director the well-being of the farming with the federal Food and 1977,I did not .wishto retire at was a strong and reasoned Ball's dedication to community." He also ex- Drug Administration; also as that time, again for similar statement that counteracted agriculture has been pressed the hope that the chairman of a national reasons." much derogatory speculation reflected in his constant Michigan Agriculture committee to assist USDA on His retirement decision about the Michigan Depart- concern for Michigan's farm Commission, in appointing a agricultural and animal came after Judge William ment of Agriculture's role in economy, and in his support successor, would select a health affairs. Ball helped Peterson issued his opinion in the PBB affair. It encouraged of land use planning to person "who shares the same organize and served as head the highly publicized Tacoma him . to complete his protect our farmland for philosophy, knowledge and of an ll-state international PBB trial. Ball said the retirement plans. future generations. His ef- dedication that Director Ball trade organization, the Mid- decision of Judge Peterson Ball said he has great forts have had a positive has given to our industrv." The UlOril-SBuer •••Pridgeon Named Successor The Heart-S8uer Resources Commission." head of hogs and 1000 acres of Scientifically de&igned Earlier in the week, the Farm com annually. Cart lets you guide Bureau leader had expressed the "We commend the Agricul- 400-pound loads with tural Commission on their AMAZING EASE! hope that the Commission would select a successor who would appointment, " continued Smith, provide the same philosophy, "and we are confident that the knowledge and dedication that B. perspective of agriculture which Dale Ball had given the agricul- Dean brings to the position will tural industry. Smith said the benefit all citizens of this state." selection of Pridgeon fulfilled that Michigan Farm Bureau has sup- hope. ported the concept of commission Pridgeon is a lifetime farmer, appointment as the appropriate born and raised on the family's method for selecting the director Centennial farm near Mont- of the Department of Agriculture. gomery, Michigan. He has been Indelegate action at the Michigan active in local community service, Farm Bureau annual meeting at and the county and state Farm Grand Rapids, Farm Bureau Bureau organizations. Pridgeon members reaffirmed the long- Balances heaviest, bulkiest loads with farms 1500 acres and raises 4,000 standing policy position. incredible easel Can't tip or spilll Es- sential tor every gardener or home- owner. Gets more done in less time with much less effort. Precise balance "Policies Working"-Bergland of this cart carries the load - YOUR ARMSI So you avoid the back NOT strain and heart straining effort of an ordinary wheelbarrow, or those small- Agriculture Secretary Bob this January, the secretary wheeled inadequate carts. The Garden Way Cart rolls so easily, it practically Bergland has described his said, "They will get a warm seems self-propelled, even with very job as "risky" in attempting welcome from me, I have- heavy loads ... like manure. And its extra heavy duty construction makes it to explain how he tries to visitors coming all the time easy to carry up to 400 Ibs. Many own- juggle supply, demand and and I look forward to them ers actually claim that their cart feels reserves and not come up coming to see me. We do not LIGHTER when tully loaded! with a price-depressing intend to abandon our policies situation for grain next year. however. Our policies are "I just say that if we have a working, farm income is up, short crop, -we've got the supplies are growing, sup- reserves to fall back on. If we plies are adequate to meet have another big crop we've consumer needs, prices are at got the reserve machinery in levels where farmers are now place that we can add to able to payoff their bills and DEAN PRIDGEON stocks if need be, but only on keep producing; and we are an as-needed basis," the not going to throw this away FREE CATALOGI We'd like to send you Michigan Farm Bureau presi- assume responsibilities as dir- our FREE Catalog which tells the won- dent, Elton R. Smith, praised the ector on January 1, 1979. secretary said at a recent and come up with some new derful story about all 3 models of the action of the Michigan Agricu1- Smith expressed confidence in Chicago news conference. scheme." Garden Way Cart. Simply fill out and r----------, mail the coupon below! tural Commission for the appoint- the decision of the Commission. In commenting on con- ment of Branch County farmer, "Dean has long been an out- Bergland also expressed sumer boycotts and activism, confidence in his ability to the secretary said, "I have GARDEN WAY RESEARCH Dean M. Pridgeon, to succeed standing leader in Michigan agri- handle two vocal minorities, talked to consumers and IDept. 844518 Char1011e. Vermont 05445 I retiring Director of Agriculture B. culture," he said. "He has IYES! Please senperated association. Underwriting losses of the drop charges of malicious destruction, trespass and used as salt substitutes in the removal of ice on high- association would be shared by all insurance other more serious charges by labor negotiators in ways. County Farm Bureaus should work with the policyholders in Michigan. order to settle contract disputes. Employees per- appropriate groups in their areas for the moderate use We do not support this legislation for the follOWing petrating illegal acts should be punished to the extent of these materials. reasons: of the law. 1. Most Michigan residents could be forced to sub- sidize the insurance costs for a small percentage of the Law State's population. Rural and suburban residents could be required to help pay coverage costs for urban INSURANCE BENEFITS FOR MENTAL ILLNESS CONDITIONS LAW ENFORCEMENT homeowners in high crime and arson areas. Good Mental illness seems to receive discriminating A lack of respect for law and law enforcement drivers could be subsidizing insurance costs for high- consideration regarding hospitalization and agencies exists in our society. We urge citizens to carry risk drivers. professional care insurance benefits. Many health care out their responsibility to help law enforcement of- 2. The Michigan Insurance Bureau would be given insurance plans limit the number of days of coverage ficers by offering pertinent information and unusually broad regulatory ppwers. afforded a person suffering from mental illness. assistance. We also urge support and expression of 3. The legislation does not address the basic We believe the practice of defining separate benefits confidence to our law enforcement officers and urge problems which have increased the cost of insurance for this illness to be wrong. We urge all companies that they be given protection from liability when such as the No-Fault Law, liberal court rulings and offering health insurance plans to stop this type of performing their duties. inflation. It simply represents a means of benefit discrimination and consider the mental illness We urge judges to fit the punishment to the crime. redistributing the cost - a "hidden tax". condition as any other necessary hospitalization. Incarceration is not always the answer. The use of 4. Michigan presently has two State-sponsored Comprehensive coverage for mental health in- prisoners to accomplish community improvement programs through which high-risk individuals can patient treatment should be provided, similar to other projects can benefit both the prisoner and the com- obtain auto and property insurance - Michigan Auto health care coverage. munity. Whatever the punishment it must be fair and Insurance Placement Facility and Michigan Basic dealt out swiftly. Property Insurance Association. If these programs are not meeting their intended purpose, we recommend . that they be updated to reflect changing social and DocmINE OF GOVERNMENTAL IMMUNITY RURAL CRIME PREVENTION economic conditions. Statutory and case law has eroded the once strong Adequate police service in rural areas can be an doctrine of governmental immunity from tort liability. important deterrent to rural crime. We urge both state We, therefore, find our local government agencies such and local officials to develop long range crime as county road commissions, school boards, townships prevention programs to better assist citizens in the boards, boards of county commissioners and hospitals rural areas to reduce crime. While we are concerned as. well as the individuals serving thereon, faced with about crime in cities we are very concerned with the swts for damages where the boards or commissions assignment of additional State Police to metropolitan were perfo~ing or intending to perform a govern- areas which seriously reduces police protection in mental functIon. This has had the effect of depleting rural areas. We urge adequate funding of police ser- local tax revenues, taking the time of public officials vices in order that sufficient manpower can be and public funds in defending such actions and allocated to rural areas. req';rlring high cost insurance coverage to protect Michigan State Police is a highly professional police agamst unfavorable settlements and judgements. department providing all types of service both to We believe that the doctrine of governmental im- citizens and support to other departments. We strongly munity should not have been weakened and we support urge the Michigan State Police be maintained and legislation that will have the effect of strengthening funded as a total police agency providing service to all this doctrine. of rural Michigan. ANNEXATION THEFT OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS Under present law a city or village may annex a The theft of agricultural prcducts from the farm bas portion of a township without approval of the township been and continues to present an economic problem. if that portion contains fewer than 100people. Often the Frequently, large quantities of these products are township loses a valuable part of its tax base which removed without permission from the owner. We urge YOUNG DRIVERS prevents it from supplying needed services. strict enforcement of existing law and necessary Most insurance companies writing automobile in- We support legislation that would require the ap- revision to upgrade the law to address any surance in Michigan charge young, unmarried drivers proval of the residents of a township before a city or inadequacies. high insurance premiums. Rather than charging all village eould annex part of that township. young drivers the same basic rate simply because they fall into a particular age category, we request that NO-FAULT AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE insurance companies provide some incentive to those MICHIGAN UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE We support the general principles inherent in young people who prove they are safe, responsible An exemption for farm products in the Michigan Michigan's No-Fault Insurance law, which became drivers. Uniform Commercial Code requires a buyer of farm effective October 1, 1973, in that persons injured in We believe that insurance companies could give products from a farmer to constantly check with the automobile accidents now receive economic com- young drivers the initial high risk rates justified by Register of Deeds to see what financing statements are pensation more quickly and equitably. their group's total driving experience but develop a recorded before he pays for farm products. This is time There remains, however, aspects of the law which: method which provides reduced rates annually consuming and expensive and slows down payments to 1) restrict rights and responsibilities of the individual thereafter for young drivers who have had no traffic farmers. We urge that this exception be removed from and2) unnecessarily increase claims costs of No-Fault violations or accidents. The young driver should the Michigan Uniform Commercial Code. JANUARY, 1979 FARM NEWS PAGE 19 Policies Reflect: Farmer Concerns, Creativity VOTING organization must maintain the best type o( employees sumer understanding, legislation, safety and health, A person should not be permitted to vote in any to carry out the wishes of the members. and local affairs. election in any community where he has not been a The primary purpose of Farm Bureau should be to We commend the Women's leaders for instituting resident for at least thirty days. Voters should be serve. the needs of active, producing farmers. programs to encourage the participation of young farm required to register in person a minimum of 30 days However, in serving these needs, we will undoubtedly women and stress the importance of continuing this prior to the election. develop policies and establish many programs and effort. In community, state, or national elections, college services which will attract some non-farm people to students who receive part or all of their fmancial our organization. FARM BUREAU YOUNG FARMERS support from their parents should be permitted to vote We should welcome the support of non-farm people The major goal of the Young Farmer program is to only at the residences of their parents. who wish to join our farm organization and support the surface and develop new Farm Bureau leadership We recommend that national election projections on policies which are set forth by our farmer-members. throughout the state. The State Young Farmer Com- Election Day not be released to the public until all polls The authority and responsibility for determining who mittee has been successful in initiating county Farm are closed. shall be a member and the classification of mem- Bureau programs that promote and develop Young A common language is essential to the United States bership should remain with the county Farm Bureau Farmers into strong leaders and active Farm Bureau of America, and an understanding of our language is a Boards. members. They accomplish this through various ac- requirement for naturalization. Therefore, we urge The right to vote in Farm Bureau should continue to tivities such as discussion meets, leadership con- elimination of any requirement for bilingual ballots in ferences and district meetings. be limited to regular members. We further endorse the any public election. policy of determining the number of voting delegates to Young Farmers are eager for meaningful in- the state annual meeting based on regular member volvement in vital issues concerning agriculture. We WELFARE count, and urge that this policy be extended to the must seek to satisfy that desire through involvement of Welfare is a necessary part of our system for those American Farm Bureau Federation. qualified Young Farmers in all Farm Bureau ac- who cannot sustain life without assistance. Welfare is tivities. The Young Farmer program can only be the largest part of the state budget and the amount is successful if given strong and active support by county rising yearly. This program has been spiraling in scope MEMBER RESPONSIBIUTY leaders. We encourage county Farm Bureaus to and cost, and suffering from abuse, fraud, and We are proud of our organization. As members, it is recognize achievements of Young Fanners at the mismanagement. We support welfare for those who our responsbility to uphold and promote a positive county level and their efforts in leadership activities. need it. However, many reforms are needed. We attitude toward the programs and policies we adopt. County Farm Bureau Boards working in concert with recommend: Farm Bureau is a democratic organization with county Young Farmer Committees, have proven to be 1. Able welfare_recipients be required to enroll in an every member having the right to participate in the catalyst for the development of strong Young educational program andlor engage in some type of making recommendations and decisions. The op- Farmer programs. Major emphasis will be given in public service work as a criteria to receive welfare portunity to participate is available to members by 1979to increasing the involvement of Young Farmers funds. attending Community Group Meetings, County Annual at the county level, on Farm Bureau Boards and 2. Educational programs to help many welfare Meetings, the State Annual Meeting, and serving on committees. We also encourage county Farm Bureau recipients become aware of nutritional and health county and state committees. We are pleased that our Boards of Directors to take an active role in the needs, along with basic economics. members take this responsibility seriously. supervision of the county Young Farmer Committee. 3. Continual evaluation of welfare programs to be However, the right to participate carries with it the We commend the state and county Young Farmers sure that only those in need receive aid, and that responsibility to support the decisions of the majority. for new and ~ovative programs. .existing regulations are carried out. This requires a,sense of organization discipline which We believe that granting of welfare and food stamps can only be self-imposed by the member. COMMUNITY GROUPS to strikers and students is not in keeping with the basic We encourage our members to study, discuss, and Our predecessors, the architects of the Michigan philosophy of any welfare program. recommend changes in policy when ~ppropriate. Farm Bureau, built the Community Group program as We urge legislation to reform the welfare system to a structure to maintain the organization's grass roots eliminate abuse. prevent fraud, and correct effectiveness. For many years, it was recognized as mismanagement to prevent waste of tax dollars. the "backbone" of the organization, providing Farm Welfare rolls should be available for inspection by the Bureau with a two-way communications system general public. between the members, county, and state leaders and staff. Community Groups were a main source of policy recommendations and were vital contributors to policy STATE INSTITUTIONS execution. They offered an opportunity for leadership Michigan has seven major penal institutions with development of our members for active involvement in plans for two more facilities to be operational during the organization and in their communities. 1978, five mental institutions, and numerous other We believe that the strength of the organization still correctional institutions and camps. Crimes com- lives at the grass roots level and that the Community mitted at those institutions require local officials, such Group system is the best means of determining as the Prosecuting Attorney, judges, law enforcement members' interests and needs. agencies, and others to investigate and prosecute such We commend the Community Group Advisory crimes. This results in an unfair burden on local of- Committee of Michigan Farm Bureau for their ficials and the local budget. All citizens should share selection of timely discussion topics and for , these costs equally. We urge that legislation be adopted strengthening this important program. The committee which allows local units the opportunity to collect funds should continue its efforts in this area. from the State to reimburse the County for costs in- curred in investigating and prosecuting crimes MFB GROUP PURCHASING, INC. committed within the State Institutions. The purpose of Michigan Farm Bureau Group Purchasing, Inc. is to administer a "Safemark" Group NARCOTICS AND HARMFUL DRUGS Purchasing Program for Farm Bureau members in The rapidly growing use of narcotics and harmful conjunction with the American Farm Bureau Service drugs must be stopped. We encourage massive, direct, Company. We commend the MFB Board of Directors and realistic education efforts to inform. youth, for making this significant economic service-to- parents, and others concerning the harmful effects of member program available to all Michigan Farm drug abuse. We oppose legialization of marijuana. Bureau members on a "for members only" basis. Courts should continue to strengthen penalties im- MEMBERSHIP GROWTH This program is a county Farm Bureau program! posed on drug pushers. Hard work and dedication on the part of hundreds of County Farm Bureaus d~ide if they wish to par- Rehabilitation centers and drug information Farm Bureau members has enabled Michigan Farm ticipate in the program. County Group Purchasing programs are now available to drug users in most Bureau to realize eleven consecutive years of mem- Committees appointed by cOlmty Farm Bureau Boards parts of Michigan. bership growth. playa key role in selecting and supervising Safemark We support enforcement of laws to tighten the im- Continuing growth is fundamental to the ef- dealers and in promotion of the program among the portation, manufacture, and distribution of narcotics fectiveness of our organization .. county membership. and harmful drugs. We approve the 1979 county membership goal for- We challenge all county Farm Bureaus participating mula as adopted by the Michigan Farm Bureau Board in this program to maintain strong active Safemark of Directors, also the Michigan Farm Bureau goal Committees, and we further challenge every Farm GUN CONTROL assigned by the American Farm Bureau Federation of Bureau member to take advantage of the economic We believe our laws should place more emphasis on an increase of one membership over year end reported savings available through these quality Safemark the crime and the criminal rather than on the gun. We total. products. oppose further expansion of registration of fIrearms. We encourage each county Farm Bureau to strive for regular member growth in 1979. We urge all Farm MICHIGAN AGRICULTURAL Bureau members, staff and affiliate companies to SERVICES ASSOCIATION dedicate themselves to continued membership growth MASA has established itself as the primary source of Fann Bureau in Michigan Farm Bureau and to make 1979the twelfth consecutive vear of 2ain. information for MASA members regarding the com- plex rules and regulations which dictate employment . FARM BUREAU WOMEN requirements on the fann. We urge the continuance of OUR FARM BUREAU Farm Bureau Women are a very important force in MASA's activities with adequate fmances to provide Our Farm Bureau is a farm organization. It must be our Farm Bureau family. We encourage them to staffing at the same efficient level it is currently an aggressive organization geared to serving com- continue to work closely with their county Farm operating. mercial farmers with bold and imaginative programs. Bureau aoards of Directors to build a strong We encourage Michigan Farm Bureau and MASA to The building and maintenance of a bold and aggressive organization through projects that will assist in provide educational programs especially designed to farm organization depends heavily on attracting the carrying out Farm Bureau policies and increase the keep farmers informed on labor laws and issues. best in farmer leadership. This leadership must be participation of members in our organization. We also We commend MASA for recognizing the need for and active at all levels of the organization, from Com- encourage them to direct their efforts especially to development of a Legal Defense Fund program. This munity Groups through state officers. The leadership development through activities of con- program allows Michigan farmers to pool their PAGE 20 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1979 Michigan Farm Bureau • • • resources in an effort to defend their rights in the court FARM INCOME importance in protecting Farm Bureau families systems. The Legal Defense Fund can also challenge We state as our number one priority for 1!r19 to against today's ever increasing medical expenses. regulations in court prior to Michigan farmers support and work for more equitable prices for farm We appreciate the thorough analysis of this program receiving citations. products in an effort to save the efficient family farm; by the State Health Care Study Committee during 1!r16- The Legal Services program of MASA is an o~ and, furthermore, to make a greater effort to work 77. The recommendations of this committee as adopted portunity for any farmer to have available qualified with other farm organizations interested in achieving by the 1977 delegate body have served well as legal representation and advice at reasonable rates for this goal. guidelines for administering the program. any matter requiring legal service. Enrollment in our Comprehensive and Econo Plan We encourage all Farm Bureau members to become F ARM BUREAU MARKETING PROGRAMS programs continues to increase. We currently have familiar with MASA and its services. We urge mem- We continue to recognize agricultural marketing as a over 35,000 Farm Bureau family members enrolled. bers to join MASA and utilize those programs which major concern of farmers. Many farmers are in- We are concerned about the larg~ increase in our are beneficial to each individual farming operation. terested in learning more about marketing their comprehensive health care premiums for the current commodities in the most advantageous way. Farm year and urge our Board of Directors and staff to work LOCAL AFFAIRS Bureau should continue to develop educational closely with BC-BS to initiate all possible cost control Members are proud to be associated with an programs along with the Cooperative Extension measures. We are gratified that our 1978-79Econo Plan organization that takes a strong stand on local issues, Service and other agencies to provide farmers with rates are substantially reduced, and ask our members and follows through with effective action on problems this information. to thoroughly study both the Comprehensive and Econo which affect them locally. A strong effective Local We urge Farm Bureau at the county, state and Plans in selecting their health care program. Mfairs Program builds County Farm Bureaus. national levels to actively support sound marketing SERVICE TO MEMBERS We commend the numerous County Farm Bureaus programs and marketing legislation which Will im- Valuable economic services are a prerequisite to which have worked on local issues, thus, providing a prove members' incomes. We request strong, continued membership growth. We recommend valuable service to their members. We urge all County aggressive. management from our affiliates to be Michigan Term Bureau and its affiliate companies Farm Bureaus to actively pursue local issues, thus, competitive and urge all Farm Bureau members to continue to develop additional economic services for building a stronger, more viable organization to serve support marketing programs of their affiliate com- members only that will benefit the organization and its members. panies. Farm Bureau stands ready to assist members members. in meeting their marketing needs. We appreciate the significant economic services , POLITICAL ACTION PROGRAM provided for Farm Bureau members only through the 1978marked the first year of Michigan Farm Bureau COMMODITY DIVISION APPROACH Farm Bureau Mutual Auto policies~ We urge Farm involvement in an expanded Political Action Program We believe the Commodity Division approach is an Bureau Mutual to investigate the possibility of a Farm through a Political Action Committee. This Political effective organizational means of serving the Owners Policy for Farm Bureau members only; and, if Action Committee, "AgriPac", carried out an specialized needs of Farm Bureau members. The feasible, to proceed to develop and market such a aggressive and effective 1978 Michigan Farm Bureau Commodity Divisions now include wheat, feed grains, policy. political action program. soybeans, sugar, dry beans, deciduous fruits and We commend Farm Bureau Services and Farmers We commend the six farmer members of the bi- berries, vegetables and potatoes, beef, swine, dairy Petroleum Cooperative for developing and financing partisan "AgriPac" Committee for their dedicated and and poultry. These divisions provide input on im- the $5.00 member certificates which will be issued time-consuming service in establishing this new portant commodity related issues through their ad- again this year with every 1979membership. We urge program. A set of bylaws for the "AgriPac" Com- visory committees. We feel this is an important tool for every member to take advantage of this certificate and mittee were developed and registered with election our organization. We also urge county Farm Bureaus redeem it at local FBS-FPC outlets. control authorities at both the State and Federal levels. to maintain active commodity committees. Criteria were developed for designating "Friends of SPECIALIZED' FARM EQUIPMENT- Agriculture" . COMMUNICATION STUDY NO FAULT COVERAGE Detailed voting records of incumbents were Communication is a very important part of today's Some vehicles originally designed for road use are developed and published. Funds were solicited by mail world. Through the wonders of modem technology we converted into agricultural implements (shakers, from members and through a regional fundraiser. are able to instantly communicate with people. forklifts, 6x6's, etc). Even though these vehicles are These funds were allocated to "Friends of Farmers need to receive daily information as a tool of not required to be registered by the Secretary of State, Agriculture" in various districts based upon need and good management. Information on markets, they are subject to the Michigan No-Fault Statute. effectiveness. We are gratified that over 90 percent of legislative affairs, membership, and other items Recognizing the limited usage of tliese converted the designated "Friends of Agriculture" were elected should be available to members. vehicles we urge Farm Bureau Insurance Group to in the November 7 election. We, therefore, request that the Michigan Farm provide the required coverage at a cost recognizing We congratulate Berrien, Calhoun, Jackson, Bureau Board of Directors conduct a special study to their limited and specialized usage. This should be a Livingston, Macomb and Saginaw counties for find out the best communication system for Michigan service to member program only. establishing "Mini-Pacs". Through these "Mini-Pacs" Farm Bureau's needs and determine what im- We urge that each Farm Bureau member review and county Farm Bureau members in these counties provements are actually feasible. analyze their insurance coverage to make certain that became directly and effectively involved in local these units are adequately covered. political campaigns and issues. HEALTH AND SAFETY We encourage every member to become acquainted We urge Farm Bureau to continue to create health with their elected officials at the local, state, and and safety awareness and to promote a need for PUBLIC RELA'I IONS FOR AGRICULTURE national level to assist them in every way possible to projects Jor healthy and safe families, including fire We are pleased that Michigan Farm Bureau con- understand the importance of Michigan agriculture safety and promotion of smoke alarms; first aid tinues to lead in presenting the story of agriculture to and its problems. A special effort should be made to training; farm, home, and traffic safety, and chronic our nonfarm. population. The understanding and become acquainted with those elected officials who illness detection. support of urban people on issues which affect our were not designated as "Friends of Agriculture". Response to emergencies by trained personnel in industry is vitally important. We urge all Farm Bureau Their support of our policies should be sought so that many areas is often too slow to assist the victim. First members to make every effort to assist nonfarm they may be designated "Friends of Agriculture." - aid, C.P.R. and the Heimlich method for assisting people in understanding agriculture and its problems. We recommend that this .program be continued in choking victims should be offered in each school by We are proud that Farm Bureau has daily and future election years and that additional opportunities utilizing local resources' such as police and fire weekly information available regarding agriculture, be developed for members to contribute to AgriPac. agencies who may provide assistance and training. We through radio programming, news releases, a weekly Local County Farm Bureau Boards should be con- urge that all schools have staff trained to administer editorial column and agricultural information packet tacted before endorsement of a candidate. frrst aid. that have continued to receive widespread acceptance. - We also urge Farm Bureau members to serve on We are pleased that our leaders and members have been featured in newspaper articles, appeared on news MEMBER-TO-MEMBER MARKETING state, regional and local commissions and committees regarding health and safety. programs, in documentaries, and as guests on other We appreciate the efforts of MACMA to expand the television shows. We encourage members to par- direct sale of top quality products to Farm Bureau ticipate in these communication opportunities when members through its Direct Marketing Division. they occur. Such appearances should stress the Experience should result in improved scheduling and positive attitudes of farmers and display a pride in delivery of products. their profession. We urge the MACMA Direct Marketing Division to We commend the news media which turns to Farm give priority attention to a sales program for Michigan Bureau when they desire information on current issues products to Farm Bureau members in other states. as they effect agriculture, and especially those who Member-to-member marketing holds a great future consistently promote an understanding of our industry potential as a market for our products and as a service by the nonfarm public. We encourage our county Farm to our members, but we must never forget that strict Bureau leaders to continue recognizing these com- quality control is vital to success. municators for their fine efforts. Recognition must be given to county Farm Bureaus and Television Committees in the Northwestern RURAL CRIME PREVENTION • - Region who have cooperated with WPBN-TV, Traverse - We are pleased that Michigan Farm Bureau con- City, to produce and host weekly television programs tinues to develop and expand a Rural Crime Preven- for the past eleven years. Commendations must also be tion Program which is being offered to members given to Alpena County Farm Bureau for working with through county Farm Bureaus. This program is of- WBKB-TV, Alpena, in the production of a monthly fered with the cooperation of the Sheriff~ Departments program on agriculture. We thank these two stations and assistance from the Michigan State Police. The program is patterned after Operation Identification - for their assistance in telling the story of agriculture. The most effective public relations for agriculture, and involves the marking of farm equipment, tools and personal items with the owners drivers license num- ber. We urge that all Farm Bureau members take --------- HEALTH CARE Our Farm Bureau Health Care Program, through however, is done by farmers themselves. We are proud of the Farm Bureau Women Speakers' Bureau project. We congratulate many counties for carrying on advantage of this program. Blue Cross-Blue Shield, continues to be of primary activities such as mall displays, rural-urban meetings, JANUARY,1979 - FARM NEWS PAGE 21 "Growing With Agriculture" farm visits, working with schools, and county fair patronize their affiliate companies. We must continue and complex organization. In addition, it has multi- booths. this effort. million dollar affiliate company operations. In order to We salute the Farm Bureau members, who par- In the meantime, we have many Farm Bureau assure direct farmer member control, these affiliate ticipated in the Michigan State Fair project. By members who are excellent potential customers or company Bylaws provide that their directors be Farm volunteering their time and effort, these members policyholders for affiliates. We also have affiliate Bureau members and a majority of their directors are were able to meet with consumers and tell them about patrons and policyholders who are excellent prospects elected from the Michigan Farm Bureau Board of agriculture on a one-to-one basis. Farm Bureau for Michigan Farm Bureau membership. Directors. members statewide appreciate the job done by the We urge County Farm Bureau Membership Com- It takes time and dedication for a director to learn persons who carried on the project. ~ittees and local Affiliate Company personnel to work and understand the workings of Farm Bureau and its closely together in sharing prospect lists. affiliate companies. To place a tenure limitation on ESTATE PLANNING Agreements signed between COWlty Farm Bureau these directors would cause these boards to lose We recommend that all members investigate estate and Farm Bureau affIliate companies have been used valuable experience at critical times. planning for the purpose of reducing estate taxes at effectively to clearly derme the responsibilities of the We are proud that our leadership has served on the time of death. A knowledge of wills, trust funds, marital parties involved. It is of utmost importance that every American Farm Bureau Board of Directors. To serve deductions and existing tax laws should enable the county Farm Bureau Board review their affiliate in such a position, a person must be a state Farm family to make provisions for: company agreements annually. This review will help Bureau president, and have had experience in that 1. Minor children and family members to create a better understanding of the duties of both capacity. To limit the tenure of the Michigan Farm 2. Continuation of the family farm parties and lessen the chance of misunderstanding. Bureau directors and offIcers would greatly limit the 3. Equitable treatment of the spouse influence of our organization at the national level. We further recommend Michipn Farm Bureau COOPERATION W1'n1 OTHER Our current Bylaws provide for annual or bi-annual consider providing a listing of attorneys specializing in F ARM ORGANIZATIONS election of all directors with no limitation on time of Estate Planning on a fee basis for member use. We urge Michigan Farm Bureau and the American service. Qualified members are eligible and en- We commend Michigan Farm Bureau and the Farm Farm Bureau to continue to work in coordination with couraged to run for the position of director at any or all Bureau Insurance Group for the studies they have other farm organizations in executing the policy of these elections. This provision has resulted in made of the various methods of estate settlement. positions adopted by this convention. substantial turnover of directors. During the past We believe that active participation in in- twelve years, thirty five people have served our ORIENTATION OF EMPLOYEES AND AGENTS terorganizational meetings such as Ag Summit organization as district or at-large directors. The employees of Michigan Farm Bureau and all of Meetings and commodity organization meetings has For the above reasons, it would be advantageous to its affiliated companies represent our overall Farm resulted in improved communications and un- Mi~higan Farm Bureau and its members to place no Bureau organization when contacting members derstanding between organizations. We urge Michigan limitation on the length of term of its directors andJor around the state and the public at large. Uninformed or Farm Bureau to continue active participation in these officers or the number of affiliates served by these misinformed employees or agents may contribute to a meetings. directors and/or officers. poor or weak image of Farm Bureau. We commend the American Farm Bureau for extra We commend the efforts being made to inform effort in coordinating support for national marketing employees about the objectives, philosophies, and legislation with the National Council of Farmer programs of Farm Bureau and all affiliates through a Cooperatives, the National Farmers Union, and the regular liaison program. We encourage continuation of National Grange. STATUS OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS this program on a priority basis. TENURE OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS The policies adopted at the four previous annual Direct farmer member control has been a time meetings are hereby reaffirmed except insofar as they COORDINATION OF AFFILIATE COMPANIES honored goal of Michigan Farm Bureau. Our present have been modified or supplemented by later policies, Michigan Farm Bureau and affiliate companies Bylaws provide for a Board of Directors consisting of including those adopted at this annual meeting. All share a common goal - to serve farmers. We con- sixteen members who " ... shall be directly and ac- other policies shall be deemed to have lapsed except tinually strive to have all patrons of affiliate com- tively engaged in farming as owners and/Or operators insofar as the Board of Directors may specifically find panies become members of Michigan Farm Bureau, of farms whose primary interest is in farming ... " that such a prior policy provides the only basis for and to have all Michigan Farm Bureau members Michigan Farm Bureau has developed into a large action on a current problem. SAFEMARK DEALERS Dealer Location TeleDhone BArB.ASIf County Hemlock Farmers Co-op, Inc. Hemlock 517-642-5920 Saginaw Rike Equipment Company Dafter 906-635-1241 Chippewa Oceana West Michigan Power & (Muskegon) Equipment, Inc. New Era 616-861-5009 Osceola Steve's Tire Service (Missaukee) Steve VanHouten Marion 616-825.2804 Evart Milling Company Evart 616-734-2421 Osceola Copper Country Leonard Ollila Houghton 906-482-4487 Copper country Daniel Linna Bruce Crossing 906-827-3483 Pointe Ford Tractor sales Mt. Pleasant 517-773-5711 Isabella "BARGAIN" Montcalm Saginaw Quisenberry Farms Reinbold & Sons sales Six Lakes Saginaw 517-365-3619 517-775-6979 BAmRiES Newaygo st. Clair Sanilac Grant Safemark Markwart Tire Service Oil Company, I nc.1 Marlette Oil & Gas Company Grant Capac Marlette 616-834-7903 313-395-n11 517-635-2096 CAN COST Shiawassee Presque Isle Steven's Tire Company Kranzo Feed & Farm Supply Owosso Rogers City 517-723-7178 517-734-2083 YOU TIME Hiawathaland Eaton Washtenaw Farmers Supply Company Maurer Farm Center Feldkamp Tire Company Escanaba Charlotte Saline 906-786-4522 517-543-4548 313-429-2594 AND Clinton Ionia Fowler Gas & Oil Company Harder & Sons Fowler Fenwick 517-593-2155 517-637-4494 MONEY I Lenawee Huron Branch Lenawee Fuels', Inc. Elkton -Petroleum Co-op, Inc. Stephen Shook Tecumseh Elkton Quincy Afton 517-423-4770 517-375-2245 517-639-'()73 Cheboygan Ormsbee Implement Company 616-238-9928 Gratiot Johnson & Sons, Inc. Ithaca 517-875-.4257 Huron Farmers Cooperative Grain Co. Kinde 517-874-4200 Ogemaw Stan Kartes Nest Branch 517-345-5159 Kalkaska D & M Industries, Inc. Kalkaska 616-258-8831 With batteries, and most other things in life, you usually get what you pay Van Buren Kellogg Farm Supply Mattawan 616-668-3816 for. Physical appearances can be deceiving, and a "bargain" battery that Allegan Alflen-Batts, Inc. Wayland 616-792-6291 looks like a quality one may have an electrical capacity that is far less! Richard's Tire Service Petoskey 616-347-7522 Emmet Because farm batteries are idle more than they are in use - idle time can Ingham Cremer Farm Center Williamston 517-655-1566 often be fatal to the "bargain" battery. Freque~tly, through self-discharge, Iron Range Frank Tuchawski Crystal Falls 906-875-3593 the battery becomes completely discharged. When this occurs, the plates Arenac Aren Bay Farms Standish 517-846-6020 become sulfated and may resist recharging attempts_ The result - a dead Oakland M & D Auto Parts Ortonville 313-il27-2801 Montmorency Bartow Equipment Company Hillman 517-742-.()41 battery and an unproductive vehicle. Livingston Klein Fertilizers, Inc. F<.lwlerville 517-223-9148 In the Safemark battery, oil negative plates drastically reduce self-dis- 906-477-6582 Mac-Luce S & S Repair Engadine charging, and the plate life is increased as Elk Rapids 616-26.4-9253 Antrim Edward Bachi much as 240%. Also, a special patented Dick Atnhony Enterprises Three Rivers 616-279-7937 St. Joseph 616-352-9741 lead-antimony grid alloy provides up to Benzie Safemark Frankfort Benzie 100% greater resistance to heat and over- Gladwin 517-426-4261 charge damage. Gladwin Myers for Tires St. Johns 517-224-3218 Clinton Hub Tire Center 616-746-4111 If you've been changing batteries every Climax Kalamazoo Cirnax Hardware 517-523-2185 year, change to Safemark this year - the Purdy- Ford Tractor Sales Inc. Hillsdale Hillsdale Swartz Creek 517-271-8611 battery built specifically for on-farm use. Genesee Dale Jenkins Huron Bad Axe Tire Service, Inc. Bad Axe 517-269-6571 J, SAFEMARK QUALITY PROOUCTS ARE AVAILABLE TO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS ONLY PAGE 22 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1979 David Conklin to Serve Gratiot County Woman Selected 88 Young Fanner Chairman as Outstandinp Younp Farm Woman David Conklin, Shiawassee Farm Bureau. Our program A Gratiot County woman County dairyman, was activities are only one facet of was selected as the 1979 elected chairperson of the the many Farm Bureau Outstanding Young Farm Michigan Farm Bureau leadership roles open to Woman in finals competition Young Farmer Committee young farmers," said at the Michigan Farm Bureau during annual meeting ac- Conklin. "I think it's im- annual meeting in Grand tivities in Grand Rapids on portant to recognize that the Rapids on November 29. November 29. As 1979 com- Young Farmer program does Edith B. Humm, who entered mittee chairperson, Conklin attract leaders and through a farm partnership six years will represent young farmers the local and state activities, ago, is a former teacher and on the Michigan Farm gives them the direction and has been involved with FHA Bureau board of directors. support needed to develop and 4-H programs in Gratiot Immediate responsibilities in their fullest potential in the County. She and her husband, the Young Farmer program Farm Bureau organization." Loren L. Humm, are will include planning for the currently farming 950 jlcres annual Young Farmer In addition to Young in corn, sugar beets, navy Leader Conference scheduled Farmer activities, Dave and beans and soybeans at for March 7, 8 and 9 at his wife, Donna, will continue Ithaca, Michigan. Midland, Michigan. Dave to be involved in Shiawassee In unprepared remarks, considers this conference an County Farm Bureau Mrs. Humm addressed the invaluable experience for programs. They are mem- role of women in the farming young men and women in bers of a community group operation as decision-maker, Farm Bureau. and Dave serves as vice- working partner and wife. "In today's Young Farmer president of the County Farm "Ours is a partnership in program, we are seeing the Bureau board of directors. He which we discuss purchases, integration of YOWlgfarm is also chairperson of the finances and sales," she said, couples in every aspect of Local Mfairs Committee. "and while final decisions are left to my husband, he does consider my opinions." Traditional responsibilities as a homemaker do not prevent Edith from actively " taking part in the day to day operation of the farm. "Many EDITH HUMM see the role of a farm wife as in the kitchen with an apron, enjoy driving tractor, hauling petition is Lorry Domagalski, canning fruit, making pies fertilizer and driving truck. S1. Clair County farm wife and offering encouragement In short, doing any job that who calls herself a "domestic and support. While I perform helps out," she said. engineer" and is a partner in in this role, I also very much Runner-up in the com- a 400-acre cash crop farm. Peter Edick is Winner Youn~ Farlners Sur.fqce Need .for New Marketinp Techniques Peter Edick, an Eaton County farmer, will represent DAVID CONKLIN the Michigan Farm Bureau Young Farmers in national Discussion Meet competition Five Young Farmer Chairmen at Miami, Florida, in January, 1979. Edick joined Recognized at State Annual Michigan regional winners in Five county Farm Bureau 650member category; Roger apanel series of problem-solving discussions in semi- Young Farmer committee Schmidt, Oceana County in finals competition at Grand chairmen were recognized at the 651-1200 member the Young Farmer Reception category; Jim Domagalski, meeting activities annual Rapids during of the during the Michigan Farm S1. Clair County in the 1201- Michigan Farm Bureau. Bureau annual meeting 1500member category; and In the November 29 Meet, November 29 for their Gary Best, Sanilac County in finals contestants examined achievements in attaining the largest membership gold stars for their county category. new marketing techniques programs. Each of the counties and which by may be implemented farmers to have more Committee chairmen the programs that were honored were: Dan Wieland, conducted during the year impact in domestic and in- Antrim County in the 1-350 which lead to gold stars were ternational markets. member category; Mr. & also recognized during the Edick, who believes that Mrs. Paul Edbrooke, Star-Night Jamboree on Farm Bureau can best s~rve Newaygo County in the 351- November 30. farmers by exploring more foreign markets and marketing in the U.S. to in- crease sales of agricultural II commodities, also en- courages individual farmers to become increasingly in- volved in all facets of growing, processing and ,- marketing for their farm products. Working within the Farm Bureau structure, "vertical integration is' only PETER EDICK one dimension of farmers' increasing awareness of the related to the Farm Bureau Discussion Meet was Ron Young Farmer commlH.e chairmen who received gold stan need for more effective organization and agriculture, Quackenbush of Ogemaw were recognized of 'h. Young Fanner _reception, and Included marketing techniques," says and are judged on ap- County. Roberta Beck, also of (Ie"'o rlgh') Gary Best, Sanilac County; Dan WIeland, Antrim Edick. propriateness, presentation, Ogemaw County, and Bruce County; Peg Edlwoolce,Newoygo; Denny Smith, Oceana; and Contestants are prepared to and originality of ideas. Foster, Berrien County, tied Lmn Ledehuhr, Sf. Clair. speak on four selected topics Runner-up in the for third place. JANUARY, 1979 FARM NEWS PAGE 23 Roger Bloss Named Photo Contest Winners Honored DistinguiJJhed Young Farmer Roger Bloss, Genesee delegate to the state annual County farmer who operates meeting, and attended the a 676-acre dairy farm near Michigan Farm Bureau Swartz Creek, was named legislative seminar in "Distinguished Young Washington, D.C. He is a Farmer" for 1978 by the member of the Jaycees, the Michigan Farm Bureau. Chamber of Commerce and Bloss, 30,was honored during serves on the Ag Advisory the organization's annual Committee for the Swartz meeting in Grand Rapids Creek Community Schools. November 29 and will represent Michigan at the Candidates for the Farm American Farm Bureau Bureau's "Distinguished Federation annual meeting in Young Farmer" contest are Miami Beach, Florida, in selected by county Farm January. Bureau units for their ac- complishments in the The young dairy farmer presently milks 140 business of farming and also for their leadership abilities Hoyember 30 during the MF8 annual m •• tlng w.r.: (I." JunIor DlYlslon wlnn.rs In th. MFN Pftoto8raphy Cont.st honor.d at tit. Goy.mors lunch.on to ri8ht) Mlle. and I.orilarret, $I. aalr County, s.cond and thIrd plac. r.sp.ctfy.", and Don Borroughs, Ingham County, first plac. wlnn.r registered Holsteins and raises all his herd in the organization. The and honorable mentIon. On. of Don's photos Is on thIs month's coy.r. replacements from young farmer candidates are registered young cattle. He is judged on farm management One of the highlights at the second place, Michael on the cover of Michigan a member of the Michigan abilities and the amount of annual Governor's Luncheon Barrett and third place LQri Farm News in up-coming Animal Breeders Cooperative progress made in the farm at the Michigan Farm Bureau Barrett, both from St. Clair months. and also serves as an officer ope~ation from the point at annual meeting November 30 County and children of Nancy for Central Genetics, an organization which he helped which the individual started farming. Consideration is was the announcement of junior and senior division and Gerald Barrett. Senior division winners OUR COVER also given to the applicant's Th. photo on th. coy.r of this organize for the purpose of winners in the Michigan were:_ first place, Charles month's Farm News was tale.n developing high potential demonstrated leadership Farm News-sponsored Zeiler, Hillsdale County; by Don Boroughs wfto won first bulls into outstanding sires. abilities both in Farm Bureau photography contest. Anna Cairns, Barry County; plac. In th. lunlor dlylslon of the Bloss has served as and the local community. Junior division winners third place, Burton Stafford, MlcJ"gan Farm H.ws Photo chairman of the GeneSee Runner-up in the contest were: first place and Cass County; and honorable Contest. Don, wfto Is the J5 y.ar- County Farm Bureau policy was Bill Pridgeon, hog far- honorable mention, Don mention, Mrs. Douglas old son of Farm Bureau m.mhr development committee, as a mer from Branch County. Borroughs, Ingham County, Stover, Ingham County. Arthur Boroughs, shot thIs photo son of Arthur Borroughs; Winning photos will appear near Oleemol wft.,.. h. "y.s. Fanners Petroleum has your complete energy needs for 1979. fl ....e!J Rog.r 81011(right) of SWartz Cre.k was named ..Dlstln8ul.... d Young Farm.r" for .97. by th.-Mlchlgan Form aureau •• 011 and hIs wlf., Unda, are congratulat.d by MFI Young Farm.r chaIrman DavId Pecle.ns following announc.m.nt of hIs s.I.ctlon atth. organIzatIon's annual m•• fln8In Grand RapIds on Hoyemhr 29. Also shown Is 1111 Prldg.on, Branch County larmer wfto was runn.r-up In the stat. cont.st. Young F~ers Elect New Executive Committee :~~m _.~ ~ • Batteries .Fuel Oils • Pumps • Diesel Fuel • Heating Oil • Tanks • Tractor TIres • Lubricants • Fitters Reminder: Efiminate spring break-down problems. Service your tann machinery now at your local Fanners Petroleum Dealer. A n.w slate of offlc.rs w.re .I.ct.d by th. stat. Young Farm.r CommIH•• to guld. the MF8 Young Farm.l'lln 1979. Th. n.w ••• cufly. commIH•• m.mhrs .I.ct.d at the MFI annual Farmers ~ m•• flng In Grand RapIds on Hoy.mber 29.are (I." to rl,ht) Watch for notice of spring sale peTrOleUm Boyd "yersdorf, SagInaw County, FIrst Vlc.-Chalrman; DcwId Conlclln, Shlawall •• County, ChaIrman; and J.rry H.cle, Monro. County, Second VIc.-Chalrman. ••• PAGE 24 FARM NEWS MACMA Will Lead Move to Farmers Honored Pass National Bargaining ~ct Weekly by FBIG, The Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Association (MACMA) will Marketing take an active leadership role in a movement to get the u.s. , Congress to pass the National Farm Bargaining Act, Radio -Network President Elton R. Smith told members attending association's annual meeting the in Grand Rapids, November 29. The Farmer 01 the Week commltte.man • on the 'onla "Our experiences with P .A. Award, sponsored by the County Agricultural Stablllzat'on Michigan Farm Radio Network 344 (Michigan's agricultural and Con•• rvatlon S.rv'c. marketing and bargaining and Farm Bureau 'nsurance (ASCS); m.mber 01 th. 'on'a Group, recognizes M'ch'gan County Farm Bureau; and law) have shown that such farmers lor their contribution. to member of th. ionia County legislation is a feasible ap- the agriculture Industry and the Young Farm.rs. He and hi. wile, proach to giving farmers community. Recipients are equity of bargaining power," selected lor the quality 01 their farming operation and their Joanne, have two chlld ... n. . Week 01 Nov. 20 •• Mlk. Smith said. The NC!tional Farm ~~4 MACMA President Elton R. SmHh .ald fann.rs must have community Involvement. Thelen 01 If. 2, $I. John •• who Bargaining Act was in- higher price. to keep ahead 01th. co.t-prlz. squeez •. farms 400 acre. and milk. J20 troduced late in the session of The Farmer 01 the Week cow, In partn.r.hlp wHh hi. Congress and no action was lawsuits were filed by to serve our members bet- Award winners for November fath.r and broth.r. Th.len, 22, ,. taken on the bill. It is ex- processors. Smith reported ter." J978 we ... : an aeffve m.mb.r 01 Holy Trinity pected to be reintroduced in that, to date, no court has MACMA,an affiliate of the the new session. ruled the act un- Michigan Farm Bureau, has Smith said farmers must constitutional. four fruit divisions, three have higher prices to keep vegetable divisions, two ahead of the cost-price MACMA's general livestock divisions, a squeeze. "We have not asked manager, Noel Stuckman, in Michigan Certified Farm government to guarantee his management operations Markets Division, and a prices which would return report to members, said that Direct Marketing Division. parity for fruits, vegetables the association now has 2,750 Stuckman said the general and livestock," he said. "We members in its 10 divisions economic conditions and have only asked government which have membership. consumer demand set the. to provide us with the legal "Membership strength is a stage for the association's basis upon which we can be very important factor in this activities. "Our skills are effective in the marketplace association," Stuckman said. tested in working with the in earning improved prices "The more members we supply and demand situation and terms of trade." have, the more commodities for each commodity as we THOMAS MACKRAIN MACMA has defended we have to market. In turn, work to get the highest Michigan's P.A. 344 in the this greater volume gives us' returns possible and have all W•• k 01 Nov. 6 -- Thama. state courts for the past 41h more strength in the of the commodity sold," he MIKE THELEN Mackraln, 27, a dairy farmer years, since the first of many marketplace and permits us reported. Irom Chassell In Houghton Church 'n Fowler; ad've par- County. A "felong larmer, ticipant 'n church organization. Mackra/n larms 240 acres and and adlvHles; m.mber 01 the manage. a herd 01 75 cows. HI. Holy Name Society; and member agricultural Involvement of the Olnton County Farm Includes serving as vice Bureau. He I. a J974 graduate 01 president 01 the Copper Country Fowler High School. Dairy, a local cooperative that serves dairy larmers Irom Ca'umet to Bruce Crossing; chairman 01 the board 01 the Copper Country Farm Bureau; and served as a member of the Stat. Young Farmers Com- m/ffe•. He and h,. wile, 'uth, have two ch"dren. Sprocket , $5.00 $5.00 $5.00 $5.00 $5.00 $5.00 with chail!' bar, $28.80 $31.QS $33.75 $38.25 $44.10 $49.30 sprocket, 3/8" Mini. Speedtip 3/8" Mini. Chain Bar Sprocket 3-PIECE SET , BUD JENKINS Week 01 Nov. 27 -- Bud Jenkin., 4 J, a cash crop farmer When you order Add $1.50 to total order for shipping. Enclose this ad. Tell 11"-12" 13"-14" 15'"-16" $ 9.25 $10.95 $11.95 $11.25 $13.50 $15.95 $5.00 $5.00 $5.00 $23.20 $26.75 $29.85 us'saw make and model, chain from Midland. Jenkin., 4J, farm. pitch or number of drive links, lightweight & Standard Saws: Chain is long.wearing, fast.cutting, chip. 520 acre. with assistance from and bar cutting length. Send per style in 3/8", .404", 7/16", or 1/2" pitch. Bars Ire your choice ot hi. wile and .on •. H. I. adlvely check, money order or $2 hardnose or sprocketnose as available. COD deposit. To charge to Mini-Saws: Guide bar is economical laminated construction with speedtip Involved In .upport/ng 4-H Visa or Master Charge, give nose. Chain is 3/8" pitch mini-chain. If your saw is now equipped with program.; member 01 the Say expiration date Ind numbers 1/4" pitch chain, you should also order a 3/8" sprocket as chain and County Farm Bureau and on your card. sprocket must match. RICHARD POOL member 01 the county mem- Toll-Free Orders bership commlffee; .erved a. For Visa, Master Charge or Week 01 Nov. J3 -- "chard county delegaf. to Michigan COD orders only. California residents phone 1.800-952. Pohl 01 Portland, a dairy and Farm Bureau Annual Meeflng; I. 5535. In rest of continental ca.h crap farmer'n Ion'a County. chairman 01 the Auburn Com- U.S. phone 1.800.824.5157 (7 Dept. X109, Box 179 H. cur... ntly farm. J500 ac.... 'n munity DI.cu •• /on Group; and AM to 5 PM Pacific Time partner.h,p wHh h'. brothers aHend. th. Community Church Mon.Fri). Tell us you are or. Erie, Pennsylvania 16512 dering from ad No. XI09 Gary and Joe. He I. an ad've of th. Nazar.n. In Midland. He m.mb.r of St. Patrick', Cathol'c and hi. wile, J.an, have th.... .~~~":1REE-:: "'<~ .. San to 40% on all types of chain saw parts, accessories, attachments, also Mnlce tools Church 'n Portland; alt.mat. chlld ... n. o '.T....... and small Ingine parts. Write toMr to Zip-Penn, Dept. Xl09, Bol 6329, Erie, PI 16512 J AltJ UAft. Y, }979 FARM NEWS PAGE 2S Brickley ''Talks Politics" to Delegates Lt. Governor-elect James happened this time. Instead representatives. This is a Brickley commended of asking what government is warning signal that we Michigan Farm Bureau going to do about housing, cannot ignore," Brickley told members attending the jobs, crime and so forth, the the Farm Bureau delegates. organization's annual question from voters was, meeting for their interest and "What are you going to do Brickley said the electoral involvement in good about government?' process should be more re- government, and said they "Over the years, govern- sponsive to voters, and that could help bring about ment has been asked to it should be decided "whether "changes that are needed to correct the deficiencies of all we want to go back to a more make our political process of society's institutions and to viable political party system more sophisticated." supply many of the needs of or continue to be frac- Pitch-hitting for Governor our people. Now, more people tionalized by single-issue Milliken at the Farm see government itself as a politics where every cam- Bureau's annual "Governor's problem. They feel it is too paign becomes a game of Luncheon," on November 30, big, too expensive, and that Russian roulette." Brickley shared some of his they cannot get a handle on it. "This organization and its thoughts about the recent I think it can be summarized 63,000 members, who have election and the ramifications that the effectiveness of made such a significant he sees for the future. government itself has contribution to our state over "Over the past 17 years, I become a major issue. the years, can be of have participated in ffve "I don't know what all of tremendous assistance in political campaigns. In those this suggests for the future. bringing about the changes campaigns, the public's However, I think it is part and that are needed in order to concern was, 'What is parcel of the feeling tha t make our political process government going to do about many people have that it more sophisticated," my housing needs, my per- really doesn't matter who is Brickley said. "I commend sonal safety, discrimination, elected and that maybe they you for your past interest and etc. ?' depending on the year are going to have to start involvement in good and the demands of that making more value government and urge you to period," the Lt. Governor- judgements on specific issues remain active and vigilant as U. Go"emor .. lect Jame • .xlde, commended Me Mlchlgon elect said. "However, at the ballot box, rather than we pursue this common Farm lureou memb.rs lor their Inferest and Innlwement 'n something quite different through their elected goal." good go"emmenf. DEAR GRANDMA: "We Went to a Real Dairy Farm-- With Real Cows! cows are kept. I thought the Mrs. Lott said that nowadays We were all tired when it calVes were big, but the they use hoses and machines was time to leave. We got to mommas were like to milk with. Don't worry see so much at the dairy farm elephants! I was kinda grandma, they don't hurt the ... and we got to feel what the scared, but Mrs. Lott told us cows. They keep the milk real cows eat, and taste the milk, the cows are gentle and clean too ... and keep it in a and even smell different wouldn't hurt us if we were great big tank like a things. My teacher, Mrs. careful. refrigerator. Rogers, said it was a "total I asked where the daddy The last thing we did on our learning experience, " cows were. Mrs. Lott said the trip to the dairy farm was to whatever that is. I just think daddies were kept someplace climb up inside a tractor. It it was fun. else. I guess there is a dif- was so tall that we had to ference between the momma climb up this big ladder to get Well, that's all for now. See and the daddy cows, but inside. But it was so neat! It you soon. nobody wanted to explain it to had all kind of buttons and me. switches, and four gigantic loves and kisses, Well, after we got to look at wheels. I figured it had to cost your granddaughter the big cows, they took us all millions and millions of to where they milk the cows. I dollars. Mrs. Lott said it P .S. My friend Bobby says always heard that the farmer didn't cost quite that much, he wants to be a farmer when sits on a little stool and but sometimes it seemed like he grows up. Me too ... just - I 'squeezes out the milk, but it. like Mrs. Lott. 'What an appefH. I Do ,lIan to burp Me ..... r Dear Grandma: Holt, so she found this farm in Guess what we did in pre- Mason owned by Cathy Lott school class? We went to a and her husband. So we all real dairy farm! With real jumped on the bus and rode cows! (My friend, the Farm out there. News reporter, is writing this The first thing we did was for me, because I'm only 4 feed the calves. (Those are years old and I can't write baby cows.) I couldn't believe very well yet). how BIG those baby cows It was so much fun. Our were! I thought if they were teacher, Jennifer Rogers, baby cows, they were wanted to show all of us pre- probably the size of my dolly. schoolers where milk comes But these calves were really from. I always thought it gigantic. And talk about came from a carton, but my hungry! We all got to feed friend Sue told me it comes them with great big bottles of from the milky way. I thought special milk for calves, and maybe she was telling me a they drank it right up ... even fib. faster than my baby brother Anyway, Mrs. Rogers Timmy drinks his bottle. wanted to find a farm that Mter that, we got to go to was close to our school in the barns where the momma .......farml. """"oelll'f looleso liard••• ' hf If ....... fun fo drl"e th....... ral' ... r." PAGE 26 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1979 "Good Neighbor" Spirit is Still Alive Members of the Ortonville Community Farm Bureau Group in Oakland County proved recently that the uold- fashioned" spirit of helping your neighbors is still alive. Every now and then, you hear about a barn-raising bee or a harvesting bee to help a neighbor in need - but it's seldom that you hear about a moving bee. Yet, that's exactly what happened the Friday after Thanksgiving Day to the Paul Cook family, who had sold their farm in Ortonville and PUrchased 440 acres of farm land near Ubly in the Thumb. The 85-miledistance between the two farms made moving look like a overwhelming task. On moving day morning, trucks, station wagons, pickups, motor homes and vehicles of every description arrived at the Cook farm. Under the leadership of Tom Middleton, nearly 100friends and neighbors loaded hay, tools, livestock and household furniture. As each crew unloaded at the new farm, a potluck lunch with hot sloppy Som. 01 tIa. 3 J trucle. 'nvo'Nd 'n tit. Orfon~'' . Community Group "Mo"n, "." IIn. up to moN tIa. Paul Coole fam'Iy from Oalcland County to UbIy'n tit. rhumb. N.arly JOO friend. and n."ltIJorsltelped male. joes was served to them by another crew. Before the day tit. 15.".". mo~ •• had ended, even the beds were made up in the Cook's reports: "In all my years, I and friends working together. Ortonville Community Group smoothly. She credits the big new home. have never seen such The kids were home from had already had the ex- turn-out to the fact that the Long-time Farm Bureau cooperation as we had on this school and college so we had perience of-moving another Paul Cookfamily, throughout leader and member of the moving day. It sure was a many young hands working farm several years ago, and their years in the Ortonville Ortonville Community wonderful feeling to see so with the rest of us." that's why this latest com- area, had often helped their Group, Leona Hutchings, many members, neighbors According to Leona, the munity project went so neighbors. President's Mes882e Losing Where We Should Be Winning (Continued from Page 2) There is real inefficiency in direct. Regulations invaribly regulation readers and other weighing costs against the our government. require that labor and in- unproductive expenses. benefits. This program must inflation? Very little, I'm vestment be devoted to ac- Large corporations can. They have authority to eliminate afraid. One has to ask him- Contributing to inflation and inefficiency is the tivities which do not add to are growing, while small those regulations in which self, "Has our government marketable production. That businesses shrink and costs outweigh their benefits. grown out of control?" overwhelming volume of government regulations. In is one of the reasons why we competition becomes less. We must insist that Let me cite an example. In are losing in the areas of . Citizens are fed up with the Congress tighten up govern- April of 1978, Joseph A. general, they have costs which far outweigh the productivity and competition. waste in government, huge mental practices where Califano, Secretary of Health, We have people doing un- government spending waste and corruption occur. Education and Welfare benefits. productive work projects. programs, inflation, I ha've a concern for reported that the HEW had Government regulation of any business is a tax largely An additional cost of regulation and taxation. America, and concern for been unable to account for $7 American agriculture, too. billion dollars. The June 12 imposed by unelected of- regulatiOn is the resources We, as Farm Bureau Each are dependent on the issue of TIME magazine ficials. If a go~ernmei1t that must be employed in members and as citizens, be . carried an article entitled agency requires a business to interpreting, challenging and must let our elected officials other. Neither can -strong "The Beneficent Monster." It spend money to achieve some attempting to change know our thoughts. We must independently. pointed out that the HEW objective, it is no different regulations. The skills of spur them into action to Agriculture has prospered many lawyers, accountants because it has been started in 1953with a budget than an increase in business initiate solutions. productive; because it has of $5.4 billion of which' $3.4 taxes used for similar pur- and lobbyists are un- As an organization, 'we been competitive. These billion was the Social Security poses. Since regulation is productively employed in this have called for balancing the qualities blossomed in an program. The 1979budget is essentially a tax on investors game between business and budget. I believe the time has atmosphere of freedom $182 billion dollars. TIME and employers, it obviously governm~nt. come for tis to join the guaranteed by a Constitution, reports, "HEW has the third discourages investment and America was founded on movement already underway protected by a government largest budget in the world, emplOYment. the principles of protecting calling for a Constitutional dedicated to the protection of outranked only by the There are some frl federal the opportunity of the "small Amendment to require a freedom .. governments of the U.S. and regulatory agencies; two guy." We hear much about balanced federal budget. We ' Freedom can never exist the Soviet Union - to waste $7 dozen of them created since the small businessman and have in our Michigan Con- for a people who want to be billion a year, HEW had to 1970.These agencies employ the family farm. These in- stitution a provision requiring secure and comfortable misspend 19 million dollars a over 100,000people and their stitutions have succeeded, a balanced state budget. without effort. Freedom is not day, every day, for 365days". runaway expansion can be through competition, to make That, with the passage of the a condition which can be To put 7 billion dollars in gauged by the fact that the this .country great. Headlee amendment, should earned by one generation and perspective, it is equivalent Federal Register, the book of Yet I submit to you that provide tax limitation for us. simply inherited by the next. to three times the total cash federal regulations, has government regulation, to the A similar program would be It has to be continually re- receipts of all Michigan tripled in size from 20,000 extent we are experiencing, is good for America. earned, year after year, farms in 1977. pages in 1970, to 65,000pages killing the "golden goose." We can call for a generation after generation. How can government ask in 1978. Small businessmen, and I moratorium on new I have a concern {or us to curb our prices, to hold Productivity, production include farmers, cannot -regulations. We must work America. I hope you share the line on wages, when it per hour of work, is affected afford fulltime lawyers, for a program that provides a that concern. spends money like that? in ways that are obvious and people to complete forms, review of present regulations, ELTON R. SMITH JANUARY, 1979 FARM NEWS PAGE 27 A Day in the Life of a Regional Representative Story by Connie Lawson" North Region--"Taking its Place in the Community Photos by Marcia Ditchie as the Voice of Agriculture" Presque Isle and Otsego counties provide a delivery and storage point for surrounding counties to facilitate distribution of the MACMA direct marketing products. "This kind of cooperation and good plan- ning has really improved the acceptance of the program in this region, " says Ray. During the December citrus promotion, over 1900units of citrus products were distributed through the storage facilities at Estelle's in Otsego County for Emmet, Char levoix and Otsego counties, and Karsten's in Presque Isle for Mont- morency, Alpena and Presque Isle Farm Bureau members. Young Farmer programs are growing under the 'eadershlp of The Safemark program has also shown good success in L------ \ the North Region where young farme,., IIlce Dan Hemmes (right), reports reglona' flay vi. Its with John Frey, Charfevobc County Farm Bureau representative Ray Wood. dealers are able to compete with local tire and battery President and Dlstrld 10 representative on the state Po"cy Deve'opment Commlffee. "To be honest, Farm would have been dishonest for suppliers in price and quality. Bureau in the North Region me to take the lead in actually According to Sherm Ornsby, seemed to be at a low ebb running these programs." If Safemark dealer in when I moved into the area," Farm Bureau in Northern Cheboygan County, the - says Ray Wood, regional Michigan was to be a far- member-only program has representative for Alpena, mers' organization, he created interest among - Cheboygan, Charlevoix, reasoned, his job was to get farmers in the area. In the Emmet, Montmorency, farmers to run it. first year of participation as a ~~~ ISTIIL~ Otsego and Presque Isle Ray is particularly proud of' Safemark dealer, sales FAR~r~. r~ J counties. "TI.tere just wasn't the gains in member in- totalled $5,500 and he expects ~ the general pride in belonging volvement demonstrated at to double the sales volume in • and although a few key leaders kept the programs the county annual meetings in 1978. Attendance throughout 1978. "We advertise products as a Farm Bureau the 4 ~ ~ [0111'11: AlICIf J going, the important factor - the region surpassed member-only program, but the membership - just was preceding years and in four the best advertisements are not involved." counties, over 50 percent of the Safemark tires and The northern Michigan the membership took part in batteries. There's no question counties in which Ray works the annual meeting that the tires are a higher and lives are largely rural proceedings. "The counties quality and the savings to the with many farms, have been able to attract average farmer more than recreational ~nd con- more members to the recover the cost of the annual servation properties and Ray meetings because of the more membership. " was concerned that professional conduct of the "Everywhere in the region, agriculture's influence in the business meeting. There is a there are successful area would be eroded without distinct trend among farmers programs being developed by a strong farm organization to today to see Farm Bureau as the members. Reorganization r~present farmers' views. He a professional affiliation and of the District Women's also believed that the job of a well-structured meeting I pr?gram under the leader- Este'" Farms at E'mlra provide a convenient "oroge and speaking for agriculture and reinforces that image. There ship of Myra H~nd has. distribution point for MACMAmember-to-member sa'es. flay establishing stronger is still the social aspect, but brought new e~thuslasm for discusses the successful December cHrus .a'e. wlffI Ed Estelle. member ties to the county the thing that creates pride in the programs In health and and state organization must the organization is that it is ~af~ty, . and commun- Young Farmer Leader pride in the organization is come from the members. taking its place in the com- lcah.on" WIth the non-,~arm Conference in March of last really taking shape in The early months in the munity as the voice of publIc, .reports Ray. The year, our young leaders program activities and I fully region were spent becoming agriculture." Young Farmer program has returned to the county with expect to se~ a successful acquainted with current Farm Bureau members in really started to attract the determination to become membership campaign leaders in the county Farm Alpena and Presque Isle youn~ farm men and women. involved in the total Farm conducted in aU of the North Bureau and attending every counties have demonstrated PartIcularly as a result of the Bureau. The motivation and Region counties." possible Farm Bureau func- that their county organization tion. "I was looking for potential leaders - people can provide leadership in meaningful programs for January 31 Deadline r--------~-- .Why pay '2°' a j)int?' who responded to the issues, area farmers. In response to •• Grow your,.wn expressed their ideas clearly a growing nwnber of farm for BC-BS Eligibility and who were interested in the growth of agriculture in thefts, the Local Affairs 'committees contacted the Two thirds of the American made aga~t the rising cost :• Herit age,· the area," says Ray. "New Sheriff's Department to public say they consider the of health care. ."ev~#_'" programs such as Safemark coordinate a rural crime health of other family Hopefully, we will never and the, rural crime prevention program for the members as a major concern. need them, but when the need :RASPBE~• Enjoy delicious r~es and cream prevention program provided two counties. Joyce Foster A recent Roper Report for health care services does • in early summer a(d~or years, after the opportunity to get them (Presque Isle County) and ranked health third on a list of arise, you can count on Blue • prolific producer, vtgOIOf:!s.easy isto a • the planting year. New ~tage more actively involved with Steve Huick (Alpena) report eleven personal and social Cross and Blue Shield • care for. " • Order from new FREE Q?b' catalog of Farm Bureau and after the that to date thirty percent of problems cited in personal protection . • guaranteed nursery ~~: frUitS. berries .• early support that was the farms in the two counties polls. Remember, in order to • evergreens. shade trwes. shrubs .• needed, I just let them go with have participated in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield remain eligible for BCBS L!~E:.c:.FT.: ~ ~a~ ~~ ~ it, and the programs are program . encourages people to take coverage through your I ANDREWS NURJERY ~~ • showing real progress. Working together in the care of themselves. By county Farm Bureau Group, • 0 PleaseAndrews • 481 ~. F.ee..tt send FREE cabllog .• MIll 55021 • There's more to do in this region also marks the practicing preventive your 1979 Farm Bureau • NAME" • region to get members operation of the Dir~ct medicine, everyone gains and membership must be paid by I ~~R£SS STAlE ZIP • involved, but I believe that it Marketing programs. a positive impact ca~ be January 31st. PAGE 28 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1979 NATIONAL NOTES USDA to Administer Foreign Investment Act The Farm Bureau- The new law defines implementation, including Agriculture, a USDA release supported Agricultural "foreign persons" and requIrIng additional in- says. Foreign Investment requires those who hold, formation from foreign in- Bergland said he is par- Disclosure Act of 1978 acquire or transfer interests vestors beyond that specified ticularly interested in requires the Department of in "agricultural land" to in the act, defining comments on the following Agriculture to receive in- report their holdings to the "agricultural land," and topics: formation from foreign in- Department. It also specifies other areas related to com- - Definition of 'agriculture vestors in U.S. farmland. reporting periods and the : pliance. land; , In compliance with the law, contents of reports. Reports In assessing reports, the - Nature of the interest the usn A has ini tia ted the will be available for public Secretary will look at the 'foreign person' has in regulatory process to im- inspection at the Department effects of foreign investment 'agricultural land' that would Railcar plement the act. Written within 10 days after they are on family farms and rural trigger reporting comments from the public received. No reports are communities and will requirements; and, Shortage will be received until January required until the regulations periodically report his find- - Whether there should be a 5. The regulations must be become effective. ings to the President, to written by January 12 -- 90 The act gives the Secretary Congress and to appropriate minimum acreage figure May Worsen which would trigger ~epor- days after the law's enact- some regulatory discretion in state Departments of ting requirements. ment. A new USDA study projects the area of enforcement and U.S. grain sold off the farm will reach 414 million tons by Delay Sought in Sugar Policy Due Soon the year 2000. In commenting on the Congressional deliberat- to implement the ISA and a study, C. H. Fields, assistant Drug Use Statement Ions will likely resume in new domestic price support January on sweetener policy program, while unsuccessful, director, affairs, says the rail's share AFBF national Farm Bureau has asked the issues that were debated in have helped to define policy of that load will reach 165 Food and Drug animal growth rates. FDA the 95th Congress. Secre~ry issues and establish boun- million tons, which em- Administration (FDA) to has said that such use of Bergland has indicated that daries within which national phasizes the urgent need for delay until March 1, 1979, the drugs may endanger human the President has agreed to sweetener policy may improvement of the nation's publication of its final en- health. support legislation in the' next ultimately be formulated. railcar system. vironmental impact The Department. of Congress to provide a The debate has also sounded The USDA study found statement (EIS) on "sub- Agriculture, in a recently domestic sugar program as the concerns of the domestic there - must be additional therapeutic antibacterial released report responding to well as to provide the sugar and corn sweetener transportation equipment or agents in animal feeds." a congressional inquiry on the authority for the V.S. to carry industries and focused at- substantially improved use of The delay, Farm Bureau economic impact of a ban of out its obligations under the tention on the V.S. role in the present equipment -- or both - said, is needed to provide subtherapeutic drugs, has International Sugar international sugar market. to handle the increased grain "interested parties additional said, "Restrictions on the use Agreement (ISA). Similarily, Sugar beet growers in the supply. Grain shippers time" to analyze the complex of growth-inducing drugs in Congressman Foley, Thumb and Saginaw Valley continue to be faced with a draft EIS. animal feed initially would Chairman of the Committee regions of Michigan, as well major railcar shortage. By using small doses of decrease production and on Agriculture of the House of as the entire V.S. sweetener The report was prepared as drugs in animal feed to hold increase farmers' costs and Representatives, has in- industry, will be watching the a guideline for railroads, production costs down, consumer prices, but by the dicated that sugar will be progress of new domestic shippers and car building farmers reduce the risk of fifth year these economic among the first issues taken sugar policy closely as they companies for the production animal disease outbreaks and disadvantages would recover up by the committee. attempt to remain a healthy demands for the remainder of improve feed efficiency and to the prerestriction levels." Efforts in the 95th Congress and viable industry. this century. A Word from Washington AFBF BY PETE HIVELY WASHINGTON OFFICE The message that rocketed do nothing to control in- nounced that he will not be that industry of up to 38 addition to getting ready for back to Washington the flation. But the danger exists bound by any guidelines at all percent over the last three the holidays, now might be an morning after the elections that certain segments of the when negotiations start for years. Therefore, the excellent time for voters to was clear enough. Taxpayers economy could be hurt wage increases for 450,000 argument goes, these ad- reinforce the ideas they took by the thousands had taken a through a less than even- truckers, many of whom will ditional increases are to the ballot box in Novem- turn to the conservative side, handed administering of the be carrying agricultural necessary to maintain equity ber. and they spelled out in fairly program .. products to the point of sale. within the industry. certain tones that the time The vulnerable areas are Nearly 300,000 airlines and All of this points to the has come to cut monumental those with smaller power railroad workers are fighting difficulty in administering government excesses and bases. Agriculture, with only for increases of more than ten the treatment of the inflation reduce taxes. three percent of the nation's percent, plus fringe benefits. symptoms, and gives new This national tilt toward population, felt the sting of a The Administration is going urgency to the pursuit of the fiscal responsibility c~n be Presidential veto of the Meat along with them, using the real causes of inflation. extremely important for the I Import Bill, coupled with a rationale that there has been The Congress has a few nation's farmers and ran- delayed and inadequate feed a pattern of wage increases in more weeks at home. In chers. They now have the grain program. Both are opportunity to press the case clear warnings that the for less government spending and cuts in the regulation farmer may disproportiate bear share of the a Correction with a Congress ready to hear load in this wage and price In last month's "Anatomy of a Price, Part IV: JUST ONE HAND! such conversations .. control program. Elasticity," there was a typographical error in the second paragraph. If 'you are saving this • c•• letl', IItW cnceJt it c._s! TIle ~ I."~.. 2.b•.1 TIOY.IILT81S lit The idea that less is best is On the other hand, the series by Dr. Paul Kindinger, we suggest you .. " I rf .. " lllnu m. tille'. if, 1111 something new Washington, but it is the only to major unions, who still cling to considerable influence are paste this replacement paragraph over the one I bras sllll'. r::m......,... I c..,.st "'"ISIJ futl c..,m ,.u.,..,! ft, li,.. er It ,.,.'.! which appeared in the December issue: S. IISJ tJ ...... 1ft. fir .. in .... ,., effective way to tackle our scoffing with impunity at the When, for instance, there is a one percent telb. Yn pWe 't ce., ..te .tllIs, JricIS, .. .itII JUST (liE IWID! Fer smqs. biggest national problem - White House efforts. change in price and the quantity supplied or lIul c..... III'.. fer 're 0$ l TlOY.IILT inflation. demanded changes by less than one percent, the htt TIU".,.,.., c.,.stm. 1D2ail Sl & m This real cause should not Yet, union wages m~ke a ..... Tre' ..... Yen 12110. supply or demand is said to be inelastic. If, be allowed to slip away from major contribution to in- however, the quantity had responded by us over the next few months creasing the cost of food at nOY •• ILY8 let. Tlu.... _ c..,nt ... 1 changing more than one percent, the supply or' =:.;,e442tM 'n..Yr.,••. Y. t21. I1 in a smokescreen of the retail level. demand would be considered elastic. Unit 11 St. , ttII guidelines and jawboning. The AFL-CIO simply PI_. I'" "" A good many highly respected figures in business rejected the Administration's seven percent wage increase Elasticity is the term used when both quantity and price change in exactly the same propor- :lJ~:':,~:' Tl= I~IIC=tee: .=,:.".::: st., If 1I0y.1 I 1 tions. (Please P,lnt elel"') 1 have warned that the treating guideline as "inadequate to Because of the volume of annual meeting ...,. 1 of inflation sYmptoms, prices protect members from rising :[:, 1 material in this issue, Dr. Kindinger's continuing AdcIrns 1 and wages, through voluntary prices." series will not appear. Watch for it next month: . City - __ Stlte -- Z'Ip _ 11 guidelines and vague Teamster's President government pressures, will Frank Fitzsimmons an- Part V: Competition. -----------------~ JANUARY, 1979 FARM NEWS PAGE 29 CAPITOL REPORT Robert E. Smith Probate Code, Inheritance Tax, Change The Michigan Legislature The new law also increases necessary to increase the rate continues in agriculture. It is recessed on December 15 for the exemption for a spouse of inheritance tax on larger estimated that 1f4 of all farm the Christmas holidays. In from the present $30,000 to estates in order to offset the land transfers are for the the last minute rush, much purpose of estate settlement. Lansing $65,000 and increases the several million dollars loss of necessary legislation passed exemption for a family revenue that will result. This is the first change in in order to implement the member from the present However, for most estates it the Michigan Inheritance tax average farm was worth constitutional provisions $5,000 to $10,000. This will be will mean a considerable tax exemptions since 1925. Back about $8,000. Today the voted by the people helpful to everyone. It was savings provided the land in 1925it is estimated that the estimate is $180,000 average. November 7. Other legislation died and will need to be re-introduced in the new session beginning early in January. Some of the legislation included Probate Code; lIB GOOD FARM RECORDS ARE A KEY 4475 finally passed. It has been - under consideration TO HIGHER FARM INCOME during most of the two-year session. It is a very com- plicated piece of legislation but it is based on most of the principles of the national uniform probate code. The TRY FARM BUREAU'S concept has been supported by Farm Bureau. Michigan's probate code FARM RECORDS SERVICE has not been changed since 1939.It has been obsolete and difficult to understand and has resulted in unreasonable The Electronic Farm costs in the settling of estates. The new code is designed to Record"sSystem Offeri ng: streamline the handling of estates and guardianships. Small estates up to $20,000 -Complete Income Tax Records (increased from $7,500) can be closed without court ac- tion. All parties must be -Farm Credit Information notified of their rights to . request a court review. Homestead exemptions have -Farm Management Information been increased from $3,500 to $10,000. Bonding requirements have also been -Optional Programs to Meet the reduced. There are numerous other changes, however, it Needs of Any Farm Enterprise continues the protection of property, payment of taxes and debts, and also protects the wishes of the deceased person. Any person who has an This Farm Records System is LOW COST, estate plan should reconsider his. present plan in light of the simple and will save you time. There is no new probate code. Anyone intending to do estate plan- adding, subtracting, multiplying, etc. Just ning should seek legal advice to determine the effect of the new code. record your transactions - INHERITANCE TAX LAW CHANGES FARM BUREAU'S FARM RECORDS The new act contains a section that will exempt one- half of the state inheritance SERVICE DOES THE REST tax on farmland .provided that the land is placed in Public Act 116for a minimum ten-year period. The other half of the state inheritance GET MORE DETAILS FROM tax would be deferred for the full ten years without penalty or interest. Your County Farm Bureau This legislation will make Michigan's law compatible - or, the Michigan Farm Bureau with the new Federal estate law which provides special benefits to farmers providing c/o Commodity Activities & Research Division the land is kept in agriculture for 15 years. This will make it 7373 W. Saginaw Highway much easier to pass farmland on to an heir without having Lansing, Michigan 48909 to sell the land to pay the taxes. PAGE 30 FARM NEWS JANUARY, 1979 INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE by KEN WILES Within the lifetime of most persons reading this page, a full turnabout has taken place in the attitude of most American farmers toward world trade. Until the start of World War II, fann~, like TUVIC .Manager Member Relations the rest of the nation, were generally suspicious of anything foreign, including overseas trade. Farmers, perhaps more than other groups, negotiate constantly for more foreign sales. But some countries use tariffs to restrict trade represented the heart of American isola tionism Still, all this hard work to open trade doors as well as to collect revenue. A century ago, and protectionism. Their attitude arose sometimes slams up against tall, hard walls import duties were major revenue sources and naturally out of the life the farmer led .. Small- called trade barriers. Government-imposed they still are in many small countries. But now farm agriculture fostered a fierce independence, tariffs on imported goods and non-tariff they are used more to protect domestic industry because it forced the farmer to be self-sufficient measures like quotas, subsidies and standard - to up prices on imported goods. - to rear his family and improve his life almost codes, continually inhibit movement of goods in The European Community (EC) is notorious exclusively with the human and natural and out of trading countries. for its variable levies - a non-tariff barrier that resources found within his own boundary fences. also ~volves charges to the exporter. When the Rightly or wrongly, the American farmer felt he levy is added to the imported item, the import did not need foreign trade. usually ends up costing more or about the same World War II shattered this seU-contained as the domestic product U.S. corn, .for example, view of the world. American farmers produce a may bring only $3.00a bushel a t the port of entry, flood tide of agricultural commodities - enough but costs EC livestock feeders about $6.00. This to allow this nation to win the war, and to sustain gives the home-grown item a break - regardless the rebirth ofwar - ravaged lands and aid under- of quality. developed countries. However, American agriculture did not follow up on the major ad- QUOTAS MAY BE IMPOSED vantage it had established in world markets. The American farmer was no longer opposed to Another non-tariff barrier that traps our ex- foreign trade. He and the rest of the nation just ports is quotas. Governments can and do set failed to recognize it as an essential marketing limits on the amounts of products to be allowed opportunity to be siezed upon and developed. into their markets. When the levy is reached, all Instead, the energy of U.S. agriculture was incoming shipments are cut off. Quotas can absorbed in coping with the changes that apply to all countries or on a country-by-country brought family farming to a new level of basis. professionalism, requiring skills and financial The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade support previously unknown. Ironically, some of (GATT) specifically forbids quotas. Yet the 110 the problems of that era might have been solved participa ting GATT countries continue to set with greater attention to export market op- quotas - in many cases, contrary to that portunities than to domestic market problems. agreement. This includes the U.S. with meat and However, the painful, professionaliza tion of cheese import quotas. farming which climaxed during the 50's and 60's To keep constant count of imports, some served to prepare the American farmer for his nations require their importers to obtain a next great opportunity in world markets. MUST MEET STANDARDS government license before bringing a product in. That chance came in the early 70's with the Let's say an American exporter finally has a Il the country wants no more of a product, it coincidence of crop failures in several areas of foreign buyer for a food product. One of the first refuses to give the buyer the license. GATT the globe and heavy foreign purchase of U.S. barriers the shipper faces is Lite receiving negotiaters are trying to end the use of licenses. grain and other commodities. Hardly a farmer country's technical standards code. It details in the land can doubt the impact of foreign sales such things as container sizes, quality grades ARE.EXPORT SUBSIDIES FAIR? on domestic commodity prices. Now, several and permissable chemicals for processed food A particularly complex trade barrier is the years later, fluctuations in foreign demand have stuffs. It also specifies packing containers and maze of subsidies each country provides its brought home the other haU of the lesson: quality impurity of standards for other com- producers and exporters. depending on how well he competes, the modities. Imports are inspected at port side to The EC's "value added tax" (VAT) is con- American farmer can be helped or hurt by in- check these codes. sidered by the u.S. as an unfair export subsidy. ternational markets in the same way he can be "Some governments use all this as un- The value added tax is similar to the sales tax effected by domestic markets. necessary barriers to trade, to keep products to but is added at each step of the manufacturing It seems whenever they talk about the long- help their own producers," says John Hudson, and distribution of a product until it is sold. term prosperity of American farmers, major Director of Trade Policies at USDA. Codes are European countries derive major income from farm organizations and government officials based on public health, environmental preser- the value added tax while the U.S. uses some mention the need for expanding exports. vation, and consumer safety - things that "are income taxes. Under GATT rules, indirect taxes The government's attitude towards exports is hard to negotiate," Hudson says. And such as the VAT may be added to imports and changing, according to Secretary of Agriculture, governments currently can impose these a twill, rebated on exports. Bob Bergland. "As long as we've had a policy, with little warning to their trading partners. Th.eU.S. ~s some eXJ?ortsubsidies of its own. we've been'surplus-oriented," he says. "We'd Most imports in the United States have to meet The Domestic International Sales Corporation build up a surplus and then have to.invent a way the same standards as our domestic produce, (DISC) is one of the most controversial. The to get rid of it. Now we're developing a Hudson notes. USDA and the Customs Bureau Revenue Act of 1971allows a DISC (any cor- marketing attitude." inspect products at entry ports . . poration with 95 percent of its income from Why are exports so important? According to exports and 95 percent of its assets related to Bob Wisner, Extension Economist of Iowa State exports) to defer 50 percent of the U.S. income University, "We've reached somewhat of a taxes on its export income. The U.S. Treasury pIateau as far as domestic use of corn and wheat DUTIES AND TARIFFS Department recently reported that DISC's is concerned. There's a potential for some Once .the product is accepted into the buying boosted U.S. imports an estimated $2.9 billion growth in the years ahead, but the greatest country, various fees are imposed on the value of higher in 1976than they would have been without growth is for sales overseas." the shipment. the tax break. But DISC's also cost the Treasury We export a fourth of all agricultural Customs duties are charged in many coun- $1.2 billion in lost tax revenues. production: 50 percent of all soybeans, 60 per- tries. Governments take a percentage on the cent of all wheat, 40 percent of cotton, 30percent shipment's transaction price, the market price TRADE AGREEMENTS of com and tobacco, 50 percent of almonds and of the import or its value in the exporting much more. But getting American goods into the nation's domestic market. Though the purpose of trade agreements market baskets of foreign shoppers means On top of tha 1, importers regularly levy tariffs between nations is to promote and regulate tackling plenty of trade obstacles. on incoming goods. Each country has its own trade, some deals also inhibit trade. National commodity associations staff export tariff schedule listing merchandise and rate of Some agreements made by the EC give sales offices all over the globe to promote foreign duty to be paid to the government for their im- preference to particular country's gQods. For use of American food in foreign products. Giant portation. The tariff schedule of the United instance, EC will buy citrus first from Israel and export corporations such as Cargill and Con- States lists hundreds of foreign-produced items give them a break on ~e tariff charges. The EC tinental work daily to broaden the U.S. share of on which U.S. the levies duties - automobiles, has preferential trade agreements with international trade dollars. USDA agricultural wine, cameras, shoes, farm products and many European, African, Asian and Carribean attaches and other government trade officials others. (Continued on P:aI1P 31) JANUARY, 1979 FARM NEWS PAGE 31 non-market nations, but the issue is extremely Discussion Topic FOREIGN POLICY controversial. (Continued from Page 30) U.S. government foreign policy stands can A major labor policy that affects export trade have definite impact on foreign trade. Em- manda tes a certain percentage of export ship- bargoes, levied a t specific countries or to ping to be on U.S. flag vessels. Exporters claim nations. They'll buy from them and impose prevent extreme shortages in the U.S., stop all this is more eXPensive, but the U.S. Merchant fewer restrictions. trade on specific goods or all goods. Well- Marine says it is essential that U.S. goods use Other trade arrangements give certain remembered recent embargoes include the 1973 U.S. fleets. countries preferential treatment under quotas soybean embargo and the Soviet wheat em- and tariffs - though GATI' says the non- bargo. discrimination rule of "most favored nation" Because of human rights considerations, our THE FUTURE should be used so that every country ships to the government forbids certain trade benefits for same country at the same rate. The only ex- certain countries. To get U.S. commodity loans The world is very much interdependent. One ception should be less devewped countries who and low import duties, a nation must have part of the world cannot starve while others eat need help in broadening exports. "most-favored nation" status with us. To well. Governments can use agreements to help qualify, they must prove they ha ve freedom of Careful growth in international trade could domestic producers, particularly if those immigration and report annually to Congress. help assure the world of plenty of food and other producers are in trouble. Voluntary restraining Currently, most Communist countries do not goods and a more stable world economy. agreements, such as Orderly Marketing have "most-favored nation" status, and we Governments will continue to reuse regulations Agreements, allow the exporting country to trade with them on a cash-only basis. to protect their own interests. agree to limit exports to a certain amount. These Congressional hearings on new legislation And American goods will continue to face tall, are negotiated annually. changing this law would open export credit to hard obstacles in export markets. FARM BUREAU MARKET PLACE SPECIAL RATE TO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS: One free 25 word ad per month per mem- deadline: 13th of Month. Mail classified ads to: MiChigan Farm News,P.O. Box 30960, Lansing, Mi. bership, additional words, 10 cents each. Figures such as 12 or $12.50 count as one word NON- 48909 Publ isher reserves right to reject any advertising copy subm itted. MEMBER advertisers: 15 cents per word one edition, two or more editions, 10 cents per word. Copy FARM EQUIPMENT LIVESTOCK LIVESTOCK MISCELLANEOUS NURSERY STOCK ARMY TRUCK - 21fl ton GMC. Good con- FOR SALE: YORKSHIRE & SPOTTED FISH FOR POND STOCKING -- Hybrid Sun STRAWBERRY PLANTS -- Blueberries. PETERS POLLED SHORTHORNS have dition, excellent for well drillers, beef lots, servlceage boars and open gilts top Fish. Catfish, also Rainbow Trout. Spring Raspberries. Grapes, Blackberries, been sold and we want to thank the many off road use. 6x6 drive - with or without bloodlines tested at MSU test station. All Valley Trout Farm. Dexter, Michigan. Gooseberries. Currants, other fruit plants buyers and friends who have purchased our winch. 313-659-6535. (1-lt-23f) registered stock. Richard Coolv Ifl mile east Phone (313) 426.4772. (5.tf'19f) and trees. Virus. free. Grower since 1&37. cattle. Ray Peters, Elsie, MI. (12-3t-25f) Mullik~n, M.43. Phone (517) 649-8988. (l1-tf- Write for free catalog. DEAN FOSTER FOR SALE: Case Semi-Mounted 6-16" Trip 25t) FOR SALE: Landrace Boars and gilts, also NURSERIES. Box FB'13Hartford. Michigan Bottom Plow. Also, Brillion Crowfoot Plow FARM POST, Rustic rail fencing, cedar Duroc Boars and Gilts. George Carpenter 49057. (9.tf-JOb) Packer. Phone 616-696-9795, Cedar Springs, lumber. cedar log cabin timbers. Shakes. Michigan. (l-2t-2Of) family, 654S Cogswell Rd., Romulus. Nol Ivan Malnar, Wholesale Cedar Post Yar. RR FEEDER PIGS - Produced 48\74. Phone evenings (313) 721-0240. (9.tf- No.2. Rapid River, Michigan. 49878. Phone SEEDLINGS - 3 yr. old - Scotch Pine, 23f) WANTED: New Idea single row cornplcker. and sold by .members of the (906) 474-9172. (\2-tf-25t) Austrian Pine, Spruce and Douglas Fir fall Phone 517-523-2803 evenings. Pittsford, or spring planting. Stan Stempkv Nursery. Michigan. (l-tf-llf) MACMA Feeder Pig Division. LICENSED, DEPENDABLE, LlVESTOe .... Rt. \, Cheboygan. Michigan. Phone (616) WANTED: Old American guns, 1898 and Available biweekly in large HAU.L1NG, to Marlette, Cass City, and before. Colts, Winchesters, Remington. Any 627-9061. (l0-8t-25f) • Sandusky. Call Orvy Jelneck. (313) 395-7296, FOR SALE: Stormor grain bins. Farm Fans dryers, G. T. Tox.o-wik dryers, Stormor uniform lots, weighing 40-60 #. •Capac, Michigan. (5-tf-17f) Civil War guns and r~alla. Will pay good prices. Call (616) 734-5491, evenings, or Ezee-dry systems. Hamilton Distributing Contact Bill Hass, 517- write: B~'s Old Guns, Evart, Mi 49631. (l2- AIRMAIL PlantsI12-S3.59; DELIVERY .•• 25-SA.89postpaldl Sweet Potato Airmail PURE ARABIAN eOL TS. Some of northern Company. Hamilton. 7.51.5161. MI 49419, phone (616) (3-tf-24f) 323-7000, Ext. 707. Michigan's. best. The Lannef'lS~ Two miles 2t-33p) means quiCk starts, high yields. Delicious, Nutritious Potatoes. J4.t2 Michigan ship- north or Fife Lake QO Hager Road. Phone LOG CABIN building instructions. J04 pages ments last year. SOUTHERN FARMS, Box .(616) 369-2271.