School’s out for summer: Employing minors can be complex
With the school year coming to a close in the next few weeks, many students will be looking for employment on farms to do a variety of tasks ranging from baling hay to milking cows to operating machinery.
Something to be said for stubbornness
Traveling newsman Charles Kuralt once described the farmers of this nation as one of the most stubborn breeds of man alive, and I have never forgotten it.
Animal welfare rules are dynamic
Testimony before a House or Senate committee is not always the most scintillating reading. I've always marveled how legislators can stay awake during the most boring of hearings.
Black hens and brown eggs
Why do brown eggs have that extra wholesome, homespun appeal?
Mergers killing healthy competition
When University of Wisconsin law professor Peter Carstensen read the U.S. Department of Justice May 4 press release announcing its blessing on pork giant Smithfield, Inc.
Out of the mouths of moms
As I reach the milestone of my 10th official Mother's Day, I find that I appreciate my own mother so much more.
Aprons had infinite numbers of uses
A friend recently sent me a clipping about the history of aprons, stating that most of our children wouldn't even know what an apron is! A dear aunt.
The week no words would come
There are some weeks when writing a column is hard (OK, most weeks). There's never a lack of things to write about, but making those topics interesting is the tough part.
Moms Yearn for Comfort Foods
Most moms are not as sensational as those who live on Wisteria Lane (Desperate Housewives), but many moms feel a bit desperate occasionally.
Meat that actually looks like meat
During a pork roast dinner with my parents on the farm 15 or so years ago, my father issued one of only two edicts I recall him ever uttering.
