To the Editor:

 

I have just returned from my fourth trip in 14 months to Washington, DC to meet with some of our Senator's and Congressmen's aides to discuss the dairy crisis and dairy policy. I can say for the most part that they still don't get it. USDA's attitude seems to be "let enough farmers go out of business and the crisis will right itself".

 

The latest big deal is that some "experts" want us to purchase insurance to cover some of our losses. This insurance would be subsidized by the federal government. If that isn't enough to cover our losses, then we can purchase even more expensive insurance at our own expense.

 

It was not very well received when I suggested that the government could save tons and tons of money if they cut our Senator's and Congressmen's pay back to 1978 levels (which is what they have been forcing us to do by their unwillingness and inability to do anything meaningful to end this crisis). Then they could purchase insurance to cover their losses. Their attitude seems to be that what's good for the goose isn't necessarily good for the gander! 

 

I'm guessing that the only way to make them sit up and take notice is to support the "Dump Milk" day on July 4. We need to make a statement and take our independence back. They want less milk, so let's give them less milk.

 

Any questions? Call Dave and Robin Fitch at 315-822-5093 or email them at fitchrnd@yahoo.com.

 

Sincerely,

Gretchen Maine

Waterville, NY