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Ford Newsletter, July-Sept. 1952
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Ford Newsletter, July-Sept. 1952
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This file contains material relating to sty. Lawrence Seaway, Richard Nixon, Voice of America, Dwight Eisenhower, Harry Truman.
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Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers
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This document scanned from Box D1 of the Gerald R. Ford Congressional Papers at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
For release July 3, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Once again the Senate has pocketed the St. Lawrence Seaway measure. The
project was defeated by a 43-40 vote after about a week of debate by Senators from
every corner of the nation.
Even though the bill has been killed in this session of Congress, numerous
follow-up motions have come along in its wake as a sort of last stand effort by many
Senate proponents of the waterway.
Up to this time there has been a proposal to authorize states in the Great
Lakes drainage system to enter into private agreement with Canada on the project, and
as might be expected, a motion to reconsider the recommital decision has been filed.
Canada intends to begin construction on the Seaway willy-nilly, with or
without United States support. At least that's the assumption.
However, my sixth sense tells me that in one way or another Uncle Sam will
be the big-hearted sugar daddy who foots the bill. It wouldn't be the first time we
have taken the tab and been excluded from a share in the spoils. Aside from the fact
that it's just plain bad business, our policy of perpetually giving yet receiving no-
thing in return is suicidal in business circles. When we have expended ourselves in
charitable enterprises, who will be willing to save us from financial ruin?
Administration sentiment leans toward support of the project whether the
United States takes active participation or not. I would strongly oppose any clandes-
tine agreement between the United States Administration and Canadian officials as to
the financing of the proposed seaway.
At best, our only recourse now is to wait for further developments. And if
Canadian enthusiasm suffers any major setback, the issue is bound to come up in the
Congress again next year. It always does. Perhaps then it may have a better chance
for survival. Six Senators who voted against the seaway in 1948 were won over this
time and maybe as time passes more of them will hop on the bandwagon.
*
*
*
Ellis Arnall, former Governor of Georgia and now director of OPS, and some
of his associates have literally been put on the hot seat by members of the Appropria-
tion Committee who were secking explanations for numerous complaints which had been
registered concerning several district OPS offices.
Our Appropriations sub-committee has held extensive hearings to determine the
validity of the complaints and to report on recommendations for operational improve-
ments on an agency that spent 69 million dollars last year on so-called price controls.
After the barrage of investigation and grilling in the Committee hearings we
were no little surprised to receive a letter from Mr. Arnall himself commending the
committee for their sincere interest in the efficient functioning of the OPS.
GERAL FORD
Your Washington Review - Page 2
We are honestly and understandably pleased that Mr. Arnall should bear no
hard feelings and should sympathize with our good intentions. But aside from that I
hope Mr. Arnall's sympathy extends to carrying out our suggestions which should save
a good many tax dollars.
*
*
*
INCIDENTAL INTELLIGENCE: The Office of Price Stabilization is at the
bottom of the hill leading to the Capitol and the House Office Building. The other
day Rep. Walter Norblad of Oregon received a letter from the OPS. It came airmail!
*
*
Michigan received a little pat on the back just the other day. Congressman
Dorn of South Carolina who addressed the 27th annual DAV convention in Grand Rapids on
June 14th extolled the praises of Michigan hospitality in his remarks which were print
ed in the Congressional Record.
Congressman Dorn, himself a southern gentleman who upholds the tradition of
southern hospitality, was edified by the neighborliness, courtesy and industry of the
citizens of Michigan. And as a result of the fine reception given by the Michigan
DAV we have a one man Michigan Chamber of Commerce in the South Carolina delegation
on Capitol Hill.
*
*
*
I'm starting to pack my bags and my aspirin tablets in preparation for my
excursion to Chicago next week to participate in the G.O.P. conclave. As I write this
Congress is laboring long and feverishly in an effort to wind up remaining legislation
before the two Presidential conventions. There's still an oversupply of 11th hour
speculation as to whether we will be able to adjourn or be forced to recess for the
month of July to return in August to pick up where wo left off.
Five of the six major logislative bills have passed both houses. Of the 12
appropriation bills all have passed the House, six have passed the Senate and the rest
are well on the way. The legislative leaders have promised sessions on July 4th and
5th in an effort to close up shop without = further session in August. When this news
hit the cloakrooms a Congressman cracked, "I don't know which is worse, firecrackers
popping in your car or campaign oratory from the rostrum in the House."
*
*
It may be hot here in Washington with temperatures in the high nineties but
we expect hot temperatures and hotter tempers in Chicago in the battle for the
Presidential nominations for the 152 election,
These next few long-awaited weeks will tell the story and I can only hope and
pray with the rest of you that we will soon be on the road to better, sounder
government.
*
*
*
Visitors who found refuge from the Washington heat in our air-conditioned
office building were: J. D. Plekker, MD; J. S. TerHorst; Doris Robinson; Mr. and Mrs.
John R. Huizenga; Mr. and Mrs. Joseph F. Harris; Rev. John H. Schall; Rev. and Mrs.
R. C. Wenger; Michael Lammers; Robert D. Semeyn; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Burns; Louise M
Shorman - all of Grand Rapids. Kathryn Groenevelt, Nella DeJongh of Holland, and
Irene Van Hoven of Zeeland.
FORD LIBRARY
For release July 10, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Adjourning a Congress is a hectic process. This was well illustrated when
the House and Senate went through the gyrations over the Fourth of July weekend. Be-
tween fire-crackers, cleo-margarine and judges, the House of Representatives was in
a literal whirlpool for 48 hours.
Normally, an adjournment date is determined in advance by the majority and
minority party leadership in the House and Senate. Certain high priority legislation
is agreed upon for the legislative agenda in the waning hours of the session. How-
ever, a few disgruntled members armed with parliamentary technicalities can upset the
whole applecart.
Here's what actually happened--
By a little parliamentary maneuvering a bill sponsored by Rep. Church, a
Republican Congresswoman, was forced on the calendar for Thursday, July 3, over the
objections of the leaders. It would have prevented the interstate shipment of fire-
crackers into states where the sale of fireworks is prohibited. Some of the members
who have fireworks manufacturing factories were boiling mad. Thon, as a counter-move
they forced a bill to permit the Navy to buy oleo instead of butter onto the calendar.
This irritated Congressmen from the dairy states (Wisconsin and New York).
These two conflicts upset the Democratic Party loaders who hoped to push
through a bill authorizing appointment of a number of new federal judges. If this
bill could be approved before adjournment President Truman could appoint a bunch of
Democrats to the federal bench. This three-way wrangle almost disrupted well-laid p
plans for adjournment. In the end the result wasn't too bad, but for a time it looked
as though a battery of firecrackers, olco and judges would put Congress is a royal
stew.
*
*
#
One of the best accomplishments of the last session was a new federal mine
safety bill and a Republican deserves the full credit. Even John L. Lewis compli-
mented Republican Congrossman McConnell for his effective work in seeking to prevont
future mine disasters.
Following the recent mine catastrophes there was a demand for new mine
safety legislation. The bill zoomed through the Senate, but got stuck in the House
Committee because, as originally drafted, it literally abolished state control and
set up a full-fledged dictatorship. Sam McConnell, ranking Republican on the commit-
too, began to carry the ball along constructive and sonsible lines. He carefully
picked out the provisions necessary to prevent mine disasters. Then he managed to
got all the contonding partics to agree. The House quickly approved the new bill andFORD
the Senate concurred. After it was all over, John L. Lewis, head of the mine workers,
Your Washington Review - Page 2
called the Republican Congressman to thank him on behalf of the miners and their
families.
*
*
In the last 72 hours of this session of Congress an attompt was made to
pass a bill aimed at setting up a Joint Congressional Committee on the Budget. The
legislation had been approved earlier in the Senate but at this late date it was re-
jected in the House:
In theory the idea sounds good. In practice it probably wouldn't work. The
legislation was opposed by most of the members in the House who have led the fight
to cut down expenditures. The bill was initiated in the Senate. No one denies that
the Senate needs some help in saving your tax dollars.
A recent study by Rep. Furcolo (D. Mass.) indicates that in ten of the 11
years from 1940 to 1950 inclusive, the Senate boosted total appropriations well above
the House-approved figures. In the ll-year period, the Senate increased House appro-
priations well over 18 billion dollars.
If the Senate needs competent personnel to help in analyzing the President's
budget, the Senate can have it. Of course, a number of Senators will need a little
"backbone stiffening" in addition. Obviously too many of them bow to the pressure
groups who like to get their fingers in the federal treasury ahead of the average
citizen.
The House record on economy is far better than that of the Senate. This is
due to the staff of the House Committee on appropriations and the tireless effort of
most Congressmen who serve on this committee.
Recently the committee augmented its staff and from now on an even better
job will be done. The recent investigation of the Grand Rapids OPS office is an ex-
ample of what committee probes can turn up. We found that it cost $380,000 annually
to run this so-called price and wage control shop abounding in excessivo duplication
and over-specialization in personnel. This investigation and several others have
convinced the House that the budget for the OPS could be cut from 368 million to
$37 million for the next fiscal year.
*
*
*
VISITORS - Jack Heidgen, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Jarmosco and Lorraine, Mr. and
Mrs. E. Barendse, Mary Jane Obermeyer.
Willard A. DePree from Zeoland.
Mrs. Jack E. Thoma, Judy and Jane of Grand Haven.
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
For release July 17, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
With all eyes turned on Chicago, Washington is enjoying a few days of un-
usual privacy. If there were any publicity-craving individuals left in Washington
these days, they'd find it mighty hard to get space even on the obit page of their
local newspapers. Overnight, D.C. has been drained of Congressmen, newsmen and even
the lobbyists finally gave up and went home. Politician-wise, Washington is merely a
ghost of its former self.
If you should peek into the darkened House and Senate chambers only soli-
tary janitors can be heard rattling around as they sweep up the debris from the
hectic closing hours before final adjournment.
The doors have been closed on the 82nd Congress and only a Presidential
mandate can call it back for a special session. A good many people may be relieved
that the legislative business for '52 has been completed at long last, but there are
those who may be just a bit uneasy until the last bill is actually signed by the Presi-
dent. The President is now in a position to make use of the "pocket veto." That is,
he may simply ignore or "pocket" the measures until ten days after adjournment at
which time they are automatically vetoed. In this situation Congress is powerless to
override the veto.
It is interesting to note that during the second session of the 82nd Con-
gress of a total of 4,303 bills introduced into Congress, only two bills were vetoed
by the President (the Tidelands oil legislation and the Immigration law revision).
The House-initiated Walter-McCarran Immigration bill was vetoed by the President and
the veto was then overridden by the necessary two-thirds vote of both Houses of the
Congress.
Other statistics of the 82nd Congress' second session may be equally in-
teresting to our readers. A total of 1,722 measures passed through both Houses of
Congress during the 109 legislative days the Congress was in session. That's an
average of slightly less than 15 bills per day. The House and the Senate totaled 1,008
hours of debate which required 8,790 pages of print in the Congressional Record (not
including the Appendix which totaled 4,366 additional pages).
And while we're on the subject of figures, the Administration has always
been fertile ground for staggering figures. For example, it's common knowledge that
there are about 45,000 full-time publicity men on the Federal payroll which cost
American citizens millions in taxes yearly. And yet, it's also a well-known fact that
the Administration has insisted upon strictest censorship of news so that as a result
many Americans are uninformed and misinformed as to Administration activities. From
a practical point of view, the staff of publicity agents on the Federal payroll might
easily be cut in half without affecting to any appreciable extent the amount of
GERALD FORD LIBRANTY
Your Washington Review - Page 2
information getting through to the public.
The Hoover Commission gave up in dismay their attempt to list all Federal
publicity writers, lobbyists, etc., disguised under a multitude of titles. Before
terminating their nationwide operations, however, the Hoover Commission has been able
to see about 70% of its recommendations accepted by Congress. It is estimated that
as a result of the organization reforms suggested by the Hoover Commission and
adopted by the Congress about four billion dollars in savings will accrue to American
taxpayers per year.
There indeed is a bolstering thought!
Since 1949 the Citizens Committee for the Hoover Report has crusaded for a
streamlining of the Executive Branch of the Federal Government with a two-fold pur-
pose: (1) To eliminate duplication, and (2) to cut down expenditures.
Now as the Committee concludes its three long years of work, it can be
justly proud of its accomplishments which will undoubtedly prove beneficial to
America and to its citizens.
*
It always makes one feel good to see a capable, qualified and hard-working
friend progress up the ladder of success. For this reason I was most pleased that the
Republicans nominated Senator Dick Nixon for the Vice Presidency.
Although young in years (he's only 39), Dick is an experienced legislator
with an enviable record of four years in the House and two in the Senate. He served
long and well in the Navy during World War II so he knows first-hand the problems of
the Armed Forces and the veterans.
His best-known achievement is the job he did in exposing the communist ties
of Alger Hiss.
Dick Nixon in the 80th Congress was a member of the Committee on Un-
American Activities. Originally, the committee thought it had the "goods" on Hiss
but they were temporarily sidetracked when President Truman called the investigation
a "red herring." Because Dick Nixon firmly believed Alger Hiss was guilty, the com-
mittee pursuod the probe further and, as a result, Hiss, the top State Department
advisor, is now in a federal penitentary. Senator Nixon was also the sponsor of the
anti-Communist Mundt-Nixon law.
Some may remember that Senator Nixon gave the Lincoln Day Speech in Grand
Rapids in Feb. 1951. Dick came to Western Michigan on this occasion because I wanted
our citizens to see and hear a young man with ability and personality.
After his speech at the Rowe Hotel I asked Dick if he would stop in at the
annual National Guard party at the Armory. He readily agreed and we spent several
hours meeting "the gang" from privates to colonels. No one then realized that Dick
would be a vice-Presidential candidate two years hence. But now that he has been
given that honor the many friends Dick made during his first visit look forward to
the time (in the near future, we hope) when Dick will return to renew his
acquaintances.
*
*
*
VISITORS: Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Skuzinski, Mrs. Stephanie Skuzinski,
Mr. and Mrs. Fred R. Clemens and family (Ann, Susan and Fred, Jr.) all of Grand Rapids.
The second page of this document was not found in this file.
For release July 24, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Political dust has finally settled in Washington. Although the national
political scene is far from being settled, the bi-partisan pandemonium is spread
throughout the 48 states rather than concentrated in the 68 square mile area of the
District of Columbia. Gives us a chance to spend the next few weeks taking a long,
cool, objective view of the work of the 82nd Congress during the past year.
Unless the President decides a special session will bolster his political
strategy, the 82nd Congress may consider itself adjourned for good. Mr. Truman used
that special session technique in 1948 when he made the 80th Congress his political
whipping post. Will he use this same device in 1952? The decision may well rest with
the Democratic nominations made at the convention in Chicago.
The situation this year, however, is somewhat different from that of 1948.
Four years ago President Truman had a Republican Congress at which to hurl noisy
accusations. The Democrats held the controls of the 82nd Congress. Therefore, it's
not likely he'll toss any partisan brickbats or raise any hew and cry from that corner.
Another reason for us to believe that the final word is on the books for the
82nd Congress is President Truman's own written concurrence with the joint House and
Senate resolution for adjournment. How much stock we can put in that is anybody's
guess.
*
*
*
In my four years as a Congressman from the Fifth District I have been present
for and answered to 880 roll calls. Out of a total of 907 roll calls I have missed
but 27. This gives me a 97.1 per cent attendance record.
Keeping up this attendance record has required that I be in Washington and
keep on the job with the result that I have been forced to miss some good meetings and
fine friends in Michigan. But an "on-the-job" Congressman can't be away from Washing-
ton and expect to accomplish the essential work representing his district in Committee
and on the floor of the House of Representatives.
*
*
According to schedule the second session of the most recent Congress was to
have ended on Saturday, July 5. Everybody knows by now the quibbling and confusion
which held over adjournment for two climactic, chaotic days. Democrat and Republican
leaders in both the House and Senate had laid plans which were to provide for a well-
organized, orderly adjournment with no hitches.
On Saturday afternoon all was moving quite smoothly, according to plan, when,
out of a clear sky, a couple of Senators with more energy than foresight at that point
threw a monkey wrench into the works. As a result, the Saturday session wore on into
the early hours of Sunday morning as Congressmen gradually wore out. The few who
For release July 31, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
From Washington, D.C. to Grand Rapids - to Chicago - to Fort Peck, Montana -
to Bismarck, North Dakota - to Pierre, South Dakota - to Lake Andes, South Dakota -
to Yankton, South Dakota - to Omaha, Nebraska - to Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas -
to Chicago and back home again to Western Michigan. During a six-day inspection tour
of flood control projects of the northwest on behalf of the House Committee on Appro-
priations, I covered over 4,000 miles. I travelled most of the way by plane but be-
fore the trip was over I had enjoyed an unusual 100-mile tugboat journey down the
river from Omaha. The chief purpose of the excursion was an on-the-spot check-up on
the Corps of Engineers' expenditures of millions of dollars appropriated by the
Congress for the control of the Missouri River.
The Missouri River drains an area covering one-half million square miles--
a drainage basin involving most of ten states. The disastrous and costly floods of
1951 and 1952 are mute evidence of the need for a sound Missouri Basin development
program. In 1944 Congress approved such a plan based on long studies of the Army
Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation. This was not a scheme aimed at the complete
domination of the geographical area by the federal government, but rather a comprehen-
sive program for the full control and productive use of the land and water resources
of the Missouri Basin by the people, by their own communities and states.
For the past two years in Washington I have listened long hours to testimony
by General Pick, General Chorpening and many local citizens representing states such
as Kansas and South Dakota concerning this area and its problems. Facts, charts and
photographs convinced us that an extremely serious problem does exist. Witnesses
provided graphic accounts of the toll taken by floods. For example, in two years
over two billion dollars of damage and 150 lives were lost to the ravages of the
flood. Understandably, Congressmen on the committee felt the need of a first-hand
survey of the problems and the remedies as they are now being constructed. For this
very reason I spent six days in this vast Basin talking with engineers and local
citizens and evaluating the effectiveness of the millions of dollars spent for the
control of this wild river and its many tributaries.
A non-stop, seven-hour plane trip brought us 1,300 miles across the country
to Fort Peck, Montana. We flew over a dam four miles long, 250 feet high and its
reservoir pool which has a capacity coverage of 245,000 acres. On the ground, General
Chorpening and I closely inspected the facilities. The General, by the way, was an
excellent guide for he himself had spent five years supervising the construction of
FORD
this very project.
Fort Peck dam has already proved itself to be an invaluable asset to the
LIBRARY
people of the area. In fourteen years (1938-1952) the flood damage downstream has
Your Washington Review - Page 2
been reduced by over 70 million dollars. In 1952, the biggest flood year on record
in Missouri, two feet of water were taken from the flood crest at Omaha by closing the
gates at Fort Peck dam. As you know, another foot at Omaha and Council Bluffs would
have spelled disaster to thousands of citizens in that arca.
After Montana, our inspection party spent a full day in North Dakota. We
lunched with Governor Brunsdale in a fabulously modern state capitol and then embarked
on a two-hour drive to Garrison Dam now under construction.
It was interesting to see the two of Riverdale which was literally scratched
out of the earth on the wide open plains to accommodate the 5,000 workers assigned
to the project now 50% complete. It is estimated the project will be under construc-
tion over an eight-year period.
Living accommodations for the workers were provided by the federal govern-
mont which erected both permanent and temporary quarters. A major item which came
before the Appropriations committee this year was the rental rates charged in these
homes. Until July of this year the rates were entirely too low. In effect, this is
what was happening: The inhabitants of these government-owned housing units were
being charged unbelievably low rents while the rest of us taxpayers as a result were
paying a substantial portion of the cost. Our committee, by direct instructions to
the engineers, changed all that. Frankly, I wasn't too popular in these various
construction towns. However, the more reasonable residents agreed that in all fair-
ness, rates should be increased. Provisions were made to allow for certain adjust-
ments if the rents went too high.
The next 36 hours were spent in South Dakota where Engineers are building
three vast multi-purpose projects. Here Governor Anderson was our host. He amazed
me with his intimate knowledge of the several projects and the problems they are de-
signed to prevent. We saw several communities in South Dakota which had been 100%
inundated by the 1952 spring flood on the Missouri. Frankly, until one views the
scene it is hard to visualize the impact of such a disaster. Just imagine our own
Lowell or Grandville under water for a number of days. It amazed me to find these
South Dakota communities snapping back to life with such vigor and optimism. They
refuse to brood over past tragedies and concentrate only on building for the future.
Next week a few more observations and comments on this most enlightening
inspection trip.
For release August 7, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Last week's account of our appropriations committee inspection tour covered
only a small portion of the complete trip. For the most part, we were concerned with
the upstream areas where the Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation are
constructing multi-purpose dams and reservoirs. The entire committee trip, however,
included even local protection projects at Omaha, Nebraska, Council Bluffs, Iowa,
and Kansas City.
Not satisfied with a mere cursory air view from our Army plane, we launched
out into the river to view the Omaha-Council Bluffs area from a tugboat. Later we
picked our way along the levees where last spring only inches lay between them and
complete inundation of the area. As you will recall, the 30,000 Council Bluffs citi-
zens were evacuated from their homes and shops as the Missouri River crept slowly
nearer the all-time flood level. Under the direction of Army Engineers, literally
thousands of volunteer workers were able to strengthen and increase the height of the
levees. Weeks later some sandbags could still be seen reminding us of the near
catastrophe.
Downstream at Kansas City, 1951 found that community not so fortunate. In
the flood of a year ago, one portion of this city was completely inundated. Approxi-
mately 11,000 citizens in the Armourdale area of Kansas City were driven from their
homes. Now, one year later, many of the evacuated homes are still deserted. So great
was the damage done by the flood waters that authorities were forced to condemn homes
and business property as unsafe for occupancy. In some residential areas silt and
debris are still in evidence. Reconstruction is progressing with the aid of the Red
Cross and various governmental agencies, but it takes a good deal of time to rebuild
4,000 homes and countless stores and businesses.
It will interest you to know that flood victims were most generous in their
praise of the Red Cross-that great humanitarian organization which is ever-ready when
disaster strikes. Our contributions to the Red Cross each year help to alleviate
suffering and provide substantial assistance to our friends and neighbors.
Will the construction of huge dams and reservoirs and flood walls by them-
selves prevent recurring flood disasters? The answer is an emphatic NO. In 1944
Congress enacted a comprehensive and well-integrated flood control and water conserva-
tion act. The law provides that the Department of Agriculture through the Soil Con-
servation Service and the Forest Service shall develop upstream watershed programs
aimed at retaining much of the rain and snow where it falls. The Bureau of Reclamation
has a somewhat similar function in providing storage and drainage for those areas
which neod irrigation during dry portions of the year.
Your Washington Review - Page 2
In other words, the Missouri River Basin project is not just a "big dam"
plan. The completed program envisages the conservation of life and property, now and
in the future, by the maximum use of all our natural resources, including fish and
wildlife.
One fact impressed me greatly. I was amazed at the extensive use of new and
improved mechanized equipment. Overseas during World War II thousands of Chinese
built huge airfields for our B-29's solely with hand labor. Our forefathers used
similar methods in years gone by. Today through American ingenuity and newly-developed
mechanical equipment, the same jobs can be done much more quickly with far less man-
power. For example, a single 40 cubic yard truck replaces hundreds of wheelbarrows.
In America, these are the benefits of competition and free enterprise. In a Communist
dictatorship where slave labor still exists, mankind is deprived of such freedom to
develop, expand and advance.
Because there is so much criticism of Congressional "junkets" someone is bound
to wonder what this trip cost. My six-day, 4,000 mile investigation cost the federal
treasury $135.04. A long-range benefit of this trip is that I will be better able to
evaluate the merit of future appropriations involving millions of dollars.
It would take months to give you all the details and observations from my
trip, but rest assured it was no Congressional pleasure junket. It was business from
the word go.
*
*
*
Reading the announcement of Senator McMahon's withdrawal from the Presidential
candidacy because of illness several days after his death sent a few uncomfortable
chills down my back. I read the small announcement while wading through the batch of
week-old newspapers which had accumulated during my absence. I never knew the Senator
personally, but I was conscious of his statesmanlike manner even during his apprentice-
ship in the Senate. A young 48, he was an energetic and capable public servant who
will be greatly missed when Congress reconvenes in January.
*
*
*
VISITORS: Mr. Fred Mosher of Grand Haven.
Cecil C. Boyer, Arthur M. Gilbert, Mr. and Mrs. Norton R. Gilbert of
Grand Rapids.
For release August 14, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Rumors that a special session of Congress may be in the offing are
crowding in upon Congressmen's already busy and troubled days before election. If the
President so desires Congress must convene for a special session on the day appointed
by him. BUT should the Congress SO desire, their first act upon reconvention could
be to pass a resolution for adjournment. The important thing to remember is that once
the Congress has met they are an independently functioning body.
This same idea makes it possible for present members to demand the
presence of a quorum and send the Sergeant-at-Arms to arrest the truants. If absent
members persist they could be fined by a resolution passed by Congressmen present for
the session.
This in effect is a functioning of the system of checks and balances
so wisely provided by our Founding Fathers. Not only can the three branches of the
federal government act as a check upon each other, but within each branch a recipro-
cal control is designed to keep everyone in line.
*
*
Members of Congress, including your own Representative, receive many,
many letters and, needless to say, some communications are quite critical. Frankly,
I like to know the adverse comments as well as the others. As a matter of fact,
criticism, constructive that is, never hurt anyone.
One type of letter, however, burns me up. I mean the anonymous letter
where the writer refuses to sign his or her name. For example, last week a letter
came to the office which started out like this: "Show your backbone if you still have
one." There was no signature at the end.
If nothing else I would like to write this anonymous person that his
Congressman recently had a physical examination and my doctor informs me my backbone
is Okay!
*
*
*
My heartiest congratulations to all those responsible for the excellent
turnout for the record total in the primary elections. I was very much impressed by
the reports of those who worked so diligently processing registrations and absentee
as well as ordinary ballots.
Michigan should be mighty proud of the record primary vote. The right
to vote is a priceless horitage and many of our finest youths have given their lives
to protect our nation and the right to choose our own government officials.
Congratulations to the folks who voted. Let's make a new record for citizen partici-
pation in November.
*
*
*
Your Washington Review - Page 2
And speaking of November 4th, one member of the Democrat party doesn't
seem to be aware of what that date means to all potential office holders. His cam-
paign headquarters at the Rowe Hotel sported a gigantic sign saying "Vote NoV. 2."
A man so filled with progressive ideas that he's willing to jump the election day gun
ought to be regarded, I think, with extrome caution.
By this time, a midnight mancuver with paint and brush may have
corrected the blunder, but I'll give you odds there's one red-faced Senator in the
Michigan delegation.
*
*
*
The civil rights issue is getting its usual quadrennial kicking around
this election year with almost devastating results. Sectional disputes are causing
a hopeless rift in the Northern and Southern factions of the Democratic party and
Democrat leaders are making like Olympic tug-o'-war champs in their inability to
resolve differences.
It leaves the voting public in pretty much of a quandry. When they
turn on the radio or TV they hear one Democrat hopeful praise platform builders for
their astute appraisal of the civil rights issue. With a flick of the tuning knob
the whole picture changes, however, as another Democrat politician says the whole
thing has been grossly misrepresented. Well, pick your sides, boys, the real battle
comes November 4th.
*
*
*
And believe it or not I'm going to close without making a single guess
as to what the flying saucers could be!
*
*
*
For release August 21, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
The work of the Procurement sub-committee of the Armed Services Committee
under the chairmanship of Rep. Hebert of Louisiana is scheduled to cease formally
December 31st, according to the House resolution which provided for the establish-
ment of the sub-committee.
The amazing record of this sub-committee, which sponsored the well-known
"Chamber of Horrors," shows that it has made some of the most significant contribu-
tions toward economy and elimination of extravagant spending among the military.
Specific projects undertaken by the committee and its staff of only four
members were responsible for incredible savings to taxpayers. In one instance the
Air Force was determined to purchase deluxe stenographic chairs rather than less
expensive but equally suitable chairs. Because of pressure from the committee the
less expensive chairs were purchased at a savings of over $10.00 on each of the
20,000 chairs.
When the Navy offered a contract for water distillation units without com-
petitive bidding the committee's prompt intervention effected a savings of approxi-
mately $462,000. The Procurement sub-committee demanded an open bid and as a result,
contracts were awarded to three instead of one corporation at a great savings to the
Navy.
The total expenditures of the committee (including all salaries, travel
expenses, stationery, transcripts of records, printing costs and all miscellaneous)
for a period of a little over one year and four months amounted to under $58,000.
The savings effected through the work of the committee total about four billion dollars
annually. In other words, the committee staff has paid for itself many times over.
In my estimation, the fine work of the committee warrants its maintenance
beyond the December 31st date. The preliminary work has been accomplished by the
resourceful staff and it would surcly be wasteful to discontinue its services at a
ime when it could be even more valuable in following up the provisions of Public Law
436. Until the complete organized program of cataloguing and procurement gets under-
way, I believe it imperative that this staff continue its vigilance.
*
*
*
In the months ahead the American people are many times over to hear and
read the phrase, "You never had it 30 good." For example, some politicians will shout
in 1929 there were 23,000,000 passenger automobiles while in 1951 there were 42,700,000.
Obviously, the claim will be made that the federal government and its policies had
something to do with the fact that our citizens have more passenger vehicles. In the
Your Washington Review - Page 2
same breath the demogogues will undoubtedly contend that the automobiles of today
are better than the 1929 models because Congress passed some law or laws in the
years gone by.
Careful analysis clearly indicates no politician, no law, had anything to
to with the increase in passenger cars or their quality. Automobiles today are
better because American workmen are more skillful. In 1951 automobiles were more
plentiful because the American workingman is more efficient. Another important
factor is the skill and ingenuity of American industrialists. Our people ride in
more and better autos as the result of the combined efforts of labor and capital.
Instead of being helpful, the federal government with its high taxes and wast
ful spending policies has interfered with further development. Keep the federal
government "out of the hair" and "out of the pockets" of the workingman and his boss
and the American people will have untold benefits in the years ahead.
*
*
*
In the recent primary election the citizens of Kent and Ottawa counties
were mighty kind to your Congressman. I am deeply indebted to everyone for this
fine support. It was a big boost to my morale and gave me the feeling that my
battles in the Congress on economy and other issues were worthwhile, I sincerely
hope that my efforts in the future will warrant continued support.
For release August 28, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
It was brought to my attention not long ago that certain programs sent over
the "Voice of America" were thought to be detrimental to the United States. Exception
was taken in particular to a broadcast of the Gershwin opera "Porgy and Bess" on the
grounds that the racial situation would be misrepresented to the people behind the
Iron Curtain. I was asked to give my opinion briefly and found it a rather difficult
order for the simple reason that so many factors were involved.
Obviously, those whose job it is to arrange programs for the "Voice of
America" have a great responsibility. They must use the utmost care in the selection
of programs to counteract many long years of Communist propaganda as well as conduct a
positive project to acquaint the people under Soviet domination with the American
way of life.
To those behind the Iron Curtain, America is a relative paradise on earth,
but we who live here, though we appreciate the advantages of living in this country,
know that murders are committed, robberies are accomplished, political battles are
bought and strikes take place. It is these things which provide grist for the
Communist propaganda mill. To say that these internal difficulties must be explained
to our listeners in Iron Curtain countries is to oversimplify the situation. However,
any attempt on our part to gloss over these problems plays directly into the hands of
the Communists and we find ourselves losing the game for which they have set up the
rules. In all fairness to our oppressed brethren we owe it to them to spurn the
Communist technique which presents a partial and in most cases lop-sided report of a
situation.
Therefore, with regard to specific programs, I would judge that our best
technique is to adhere strictly to the absolute truth. Human nature is not so gullible
nor so perverse that it can be lured unwittingly for any length of time by falsehood
and hypocrisy. It may be bewitched briefly but soon the intellect's natural craving
for truth takes the reins. I say, let's leave equivocation and deception to the
Russians!
*
The road to a complete understanding between nations is clogged by a mis-
understanding of terms. Recently we heard of a Soviet delegate to the U.N. who was
shocked to hear that strikers were to be "fired" if they did not return to their jobs.
Until a Mexican delegate explained the term, the Russian interpreted the statement to
mean that the strikers were to be shot.
*
*
Your Washington Review - Page 2
The new 1952 Department of Agriculture Yearbook just off the presses,
devotes 952 pages to the study of insects. Color plates, black and white photographs
and line drawings are designed to help the farmer and city people identify and con-
trol insects.
The volumes are now being sent out from the Government Printing Office and
requests for the books will be filled as soon as possible.
Those of you who have already sent in requests will received your books
the minute the copies are on hand for distribution. Others who wish to obtain copies
may do so by writing me at my Washington office.
Incidentally, we still' have on hand a few yearbooks of past years. If you
should be missing one or should one of these back volumes be of particular interest
to you don't hesitate to write for one. It will be sent to you directly if at all
available.
*
*
*
The Office of Price Stabilization has done it again. It issued a solemn
amendment to its rules last week as follows: The price of Graham automobiles will no
longer be controlled--because, the OPS admitted, "the Graham is no longer being manu-
factured." The last Graham, in fact, rolled off the line in 1941; only 676 are still
in operation.
*
*
*
Taxpayers in West Virginia are being made aware, through the ingenuity of
their Chamber of Commerce, of the tremendous tax burden facing the country and them
as individuals,
They have distributed match books especially printed with Federal spending
facts to enlighten any apathetic citizens (if any such exist). The flap of the match
cover states that Federal spending proposed for 1952-53 will amount to over 85 billion
dollars or $162,481 per minute. The reverse flap brings the facts even closer to the
community announcing that West Virginia's share of the total is $552,000.
Michigan's share of the burden is even greater.
If this little gimmick works, it ought to make the West Virginia Citizens
realize that during the time it takes to smoke a single cigarette the Federal govern-
ment is spending approximately $500,000.
*
*
*
VISITORS: The Kennoth E. Quinlans of Grand Rapids dropped in for a visit.
FOR RELEASE SEPT. 4.
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
By all rights we should change the name of our column this
week - or at least print a new dateline. The Ford's - Botty, Miko, Jack and
myself arrived in Grand Rapids this week and if the Nov. 4 vote is favorable we
will be on our way back to Washington when the 83rd Congress convenes in January.
Speaking for the whole family I can say that it's mighty good to be back home in
Michigan. Besides being partial to the home state, we thing it's a wonderful
place to live.
Our Grand Rapids office has been open for approximatoly one
month and now my staff and I **11 continue to be at your service. We'll be looking
forward to seeing many of you while we're here, to holp you out in any way we con.
I must say one of the most enjoyable advantages of having this time
to spend in Grand Rapids is the opportunity it gives to visit with all - or most-
of the folks in the district. In order to do a satisfactory job in Washington it
is imperative that I know what you think of current legislation-what your present
problems may be which demand futuro legislation - what suggestions you may have on
any issue whatsoever. My work is successful only in direct proportion to my ability
to know your needs and effectively to carry out your suggestions in Washington.
Therefore, I urge you to contact me and I welcome any commonts or suggestions you
may have to offer.
Organizations and clubs planning meetings or get-bogethers during
the next few months, here's a piece of useful information for you. I brought back
with me from Washington two half-hour long movies which I am certain will be of
interest to you.
Portions of the actual hearings of the King Committee which worked
throughout the recent Congross to exposo tax scandals, have been reproduced on film.
It includes photographs and actual voices of witnesses such as Charles Oliphant,
Joe Noonan, T. Lemar Caudle and others whose shady deals were exposed through the
efforts of the committee. This excellent film organizes the facts of the tax investi-
gations for a complete and unified story of the concentrated offorts to rid our
nation of corruption in this branch of the federal government.
The second fully documented film recounts the stops leading up
to the Korean conflict and also presents vivid accounts of present events on the
Korean front and in the truce negotiations at Panmunjom. Taken directly from official
Navy film these excrpts from the Korean scone are exceptionally timely and provocative.
Arrangements to obtain films for showings at meetings and special
programs may be made by phone Gl. 49012 or by calling at my office at 227 Federal
Building in Grand Repids. I cm convinced those are films you cannot afford to miss.
I sincorcly hope many of you will take advantage of this offor.
In an address to Columbia students in 1950, General Eisenhower
pointed out that only 45 million persons out of 93 million oligible voters actually
voted in the 1948 elections. In offect, this means that only 25 percent of the
total eloctorate put President Truman in the Whito House. It would be tragic
if in 1952 only one out of four potential voters decided on the next Chief
Executive of the Unitod Statos.
Recontly I read an article which will I think, impress you as much
as it did me with the importance of every singlo vote.
President Ruthorford B. Hayes was elected Presidont by one vote.
When the election was contested and referred to an electoral commission he won
again by a single vote. This deciding vote was cast by an Indiana lawyer who
himself had boon elected to Congress by the margin of ono vote cast by a client who
although desporately 111, insisted on boing taken to the polls to vote.
This examplo of the tromendous reprocussions of a single vote will,
I hopo, make each one of you more determined to got to the polls Nov. 4. Got your
friends to go too. First, however - and this is important - you must register before
you can vote. Last day for registration is Oct. 6th. Soe your township or
village clerk about registering so you can participate in selecting the next President
John Foster Dulles last week made a mighty constructive speech at the
national convention of the Amvots in Grand Rapids. Mr. Dullos, the top Republican
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
- PAGE 2 -
foreign policy advisor, advocated an affirmative rather than negative approach to
the Russians. Ho firmly bolieves the United States under proper leadership
can broak the historical cycle of one World War after anothor. At the convention
this great leader was given the award for outstanding work in futhoring the cause
of peace. Incidentally, if Eisenhower is elocted to the Prosidency, Mr. Dulles
may very likely be his Secretary of State replacing Doan Achoson.
***
***
***
***
***
For release September 11, 1952
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
Last week Ike Eisenhower stopped in Chicago for a conference with Republican
candidates from Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana. Your Congressman attended this get-
together where Ike brought us right up to date on the campaign. In addition, he
answered some mighty tough questions put to him by his fellow Republicans who did
not hesitate to put him on the spot. His every reply, however, was straightforward
and unequivocal. Above all, he refused to indulge in name-calling.
Someone ventured to ask him about Korea. Eisenhower replied decisively,
"Our lads should be gotten out of the front lines as rapidly as possible and the
South Koreans should be trained and used to defend themselves."
Another question failed to make him quaver: "What are your views on the
national debt which now totals 260 billion dollars or approximately $1,800 per
American citizen?" Ike answered, "We must first balance the federal budget, keep it
balanced each year, and apply the surplus to a progressive reduction of the debt it-
self. The budget can be balanced by a careful examination of each and every budget
item, increased efficiency in the operation of all government departments, particu-
larly the military, and emphasis on common honesty in high places in the Federal
government."
Would Ike cut social gains if he were elected President? "Definitely not."
Eisenhower believes that Uncle Sam should provide a floor so that all our citizens
would have protection against disaster. He wants the individual citizen in our
economic system to have the incentive and the opportunity to provide for himself
over and above the basic protection which the government should provide.
Another candidate asked Ike about the foreign policy of the United States
under the present Administration. He replied without hesitation, "We have none."
He then amplified his statement with the comment that his foreign policy would be,
"stable, understandable and fully explained to the American people," and his recent
speeches prove this point. Ike vigorously condemned the foreign policy of President
Truman and Secretary Acheson because there was no clearly-defined objective in mind
and no limit to the tax money which the Democrats want to spend. He pointed out
clearly the failures of President Truman's Administration in the handling of the
pre-Korean invasion by the Communists.
Congresswoman Ruth Thompson of Whitehall, Michigan, invited Ike to Grand
Rapids and Muskegon. He indicated that he would probably be here as soon as the trip
could be incorporated into his itinerary. If and when he comes I urge you to see for
yourself a man who above all else is deeply sincere and dedicated to a crusade for
GERALD
Your Washington Review - Page 2
morality in government to insure the security of future generations.
*
*
*
A most welcome letter of appreciation came to my office not long ago from a
fellow colleague on the House Appropriations Committee. John Taber of New York, a
veteran of fourteen terms in Congress and senior member of the committee, wrote me
the following letter
"Dear Jerry:
"I want to thank you very much for the fine work you did on the Civil
Functions Bill, the War Agencies Bill, and upon the different conferences that
you worked on. I appreciated it very much and appreciated the effort you put into it.
"You were a tower of strength all the way through. Your work on other
bills and on the Floor helped very markedly and you were able to analyze the
different items in such a way that you could get results on the Floor."
In answer to Mr. Taber's letter, I can only say that my efforts would not
have been effective without the enthusiastic and capable industry of all the members
of the committee. The record clearly shows the Republicans on the Committee had a
long up-hill struggle in their attempts to economize on expenditures. A great
responsibility was placed on the committee this session because everyone realized it
was time to put the brakes on a good deal of the free spending leading the United
States economy further and further into the red. Despite our work, we're still far
far from balancing the federal budget SO that the obligation, of necessity, will be
passed on to the 83rd Congress.
It's plain to see that the pace set by the present Administration can be
checked only through a radical change in policy. The present Administration shows no
sign of making any such change. As a matter of fact, the implication is that
Americans are in for four years of more of the same if the same party is put back
into power.
*
*
*
Spent a perfectly enjoyable day at the Hudsonville Fair last Saturday. I
got a big kick out of joining the colorful parade to the fairgrounds and I especially
enjoyed being able to visit with so many of my friends out there.
Those of you who stopped in at my "Hudsonville office" located at the en-
trance to the fairgrounds, were, I hope, enlightened by the movies which were shown
there.
We wish to congratulate the committee which did such a bang-up job of putting
the fair over. If everyone enjoyed it as much as Betty, Mike and I did, there's no
doubt but the fair was 2 huge success.
FOR RELEASE SEPT. 18
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
A meeting wi th the members of the Mission Covenant
Church in Northwest Grand Rapids not long ago made me realize
more than ever the refreshing spirit which is America.
No doubt you are all familiar, by this time, with
the story of Mission Covenant Church's missionary to China,
Elsa Hammerlind. Miss Hammerlind's promise to a dying mother
led to the adoption of a tiny Chinese girl, orphaned by the
war and the passage of a special act of Congress to bring
her to this country.
Little Minglan now officially bears the sur-name
Hammerlind and only the journey across the Ocean separates
her from her long-awaited new home.
Best of all, Minglan has a big surprise waiting
for her when she arrives. The Congregation of Mission Cov-
enant Church is waibing to give her an old-fashioned Amer-
ican welcome. The Church which sponsors Miss Hammerlind in
the Far East is waiting to adopt Minglan, too to give her
a whole congregation of foster parents.
I felt all this excitement and anticipation and
downright good will the night I spoke to the group from
Mission Covenant ᶜhurch and told them of the process in-
V olved in passing the special act of Congress "for the re-
lief of Minglan Hammerlind."
Believe me, I was just about the happiest man on
earth that evening to know that I had been instrumental, in
some small way, in bringing such happiness to all these
people
especially to a winsom, ll-year old Chinese girl
with long pigtails, who has found so many friends in her
new home.
*
Are you registered to vote in the election on No-
vember 4th? This is the most important election in the Na-
tion's history. Only half of the EXHI eligible voters in
America cast their ballot for the Presidency in 1948. In
World War I, World War II and in Korea our finest young men
GERALD
have given their lives to protect the priceless heritage of
-2-
the "secret Ballot". To keep faith with those who fought
and died to save and protect us from those who would destroy
America, all citizens must register and vote. The first
step is registration and it must be done by OCTOBER 6th,
See your township, village or city clerk without delay. The
Nation needs your "one vote".
If any of you program chairmen are still stuck for
material to fill in that program, my two half-hour films -
on Korea and the Kind Committee investigations of the tax
scandals - are still available. I might warn you they're on a
first come, first serve basis.
lubs like yours, church groups, civic organizations
and service clubs, have been making excellent use of these
films, which have been received with much enthusiasm where-
ever they are shown. They're an education in themselves, and
they're waiting for you if you simply call Gl. 49012 to make
arrangements.
My Grand Rapids office last week reported a request for
help from a young man who's wanted by two U.S. agencies - the
U.S. Navy and the U.S. Selective Service. The Navy wants to
give him a commissi on. Papers announcing his acceptance ar-
rived just after notice for induction. Selective Service says.
it's too late for the Navy.
It's our policy never to interfere with the juBisdic-
tion of the local Selective Service Boards. They are private
citizens who offer their time and effort GRATIS - without pay -
in the interest of good citizenship and good government. They
have done, and are doing an excellent job and I, for one, can-
not praise them too highly. They have a great responsibility
which they face conscientiously and diligently. My hat's off
to them.
*
Another problem submitted by a local family almost had
us stumped. The people had money deposited in banks in Germany
and were at a loss to know how to go about getting it out. The
question came, point blank: "Mr. Congressman, what do we do now?"
Do many citizens in our district turn to their Congress-
man for aid and assistance? Yes, quite a few do, but percentage-
wise the number is small. As a private citizen, I remember that
many times when I was in a quandry as to what to do in a particu-
lar situation and on some occasions I felt perhaps information
from a member of Congress would be helpful. I believed then as
I do now that our government is "for the people" - in the words
of our great President Lincoln. Your elected representatives are
your servants. Four years in Washington convinces me that their
job is to help you.
FOR RELEASE SEPT. 25
YOUR WASHINGTON REVIEW
BY GERALD R. FORD, JR.
At a neighborhood meeting the other evening, a
housewife asked me: "Why is the Federal budget unbalanced?"
She, like many others, could not understand how it is reason-
able - even possible - to plan to spend in excess of your in-
come. I did my best to explain the false logic behind this
deficit financing, but I am indebted to Mr. Richard B. Frost,
whose frank and startling message came to me in the mail the
other day, for the most potent reply to that question. And
here's what Mr. Frost says:
"In this election year every person seeking a public
office should be asked to answer that question. In a period
of unprecedented prosperity, we have accumulated $7.8 billion
of new indebtedness since 1947.
"The Administration's pat answer is -"Military Security".
The tremendous expenditure of tax dollars for defense and for
foreign aid to sustain our allies is cited in justification
of the liberal use of red ink in Washington. Choose, you are
told, between security and balanced budgets. It makes a good
argument - but is it true?
"While the Administration in W.shington has been
creating deficits, our good neighbor, Canada, has registered
surplus after surplus. During the same period in which we
have accumulated $7.8 billion in indebtedness, Canada has had
a surplus of $1.9 billion. Adjusted to a figure relative to
the United States economy and population, the Canadian surplus
would equal $32 billion.
"Since the end of World War II, Canada has spent more
on foreign aid - on a per capita income basis - than has the
United States. In figures adjusted for popula tion and income,
the Canadian expenditure on foreign aid would equal $41 billion.
This compares with a United States expenditure of $32.3 billion.
Nor have our Canadian friends la gged on their own defense.
FORD
Again, in figures adjusted to U.S. size and income, Canada has
spent since 1949 the equivalent of $71.4 billion on defense.
GERALD
-2-
This compares favorably with $83.8 billion spent by the U.S.
during the same period. Thus, Canada has spent more on for-
eign aid than the U.S. on a per capita income basis - a little
less on defense. For both foreign aid and defense, the rela-
tive expenditure by the two governments is approximately the
same, with the U.S. holding a slight edge of a little over 3%.
"Therefore, if Canada can, according to her means,
spend as much on foreign aid and defense as the U.S. and still
show a surplus in her budget, military defense and foreign aid
cannot be a logical excuse for the U.S. deficit.
"Nor does the answer lie in taxation. Canadian
taxes are no higher than those in the U.S. In most cases they
are lower. We can't give Social Security as an apology for our
deficit. No one would argue that American Social Security
benefits are greater than those available at the present time
in Canada.
"If our deficit cannot be explained in terms of
National Defense, Foreign Aid, Taxes or Social Security -
what is the answer? Perhaps this is the "mess" President
Truman says doesn't exist, but Candidates Eisenhower and
Stevenson both promise to clean up."
*
It's still not too late to take advantage of the
biggest bargai n in the world. Simply for the price of a bus
token, a bit of gas or perhaps a little shoe leather (accor-
ding to your means of travel) you can get to your City or
Township Clerk's office and register to vote. And that vote,
we should realize, is worth any inconvenience which may be in-
volved in registering. Stan Kilpatrick, Grand Rapids City
Clerk, tells me that the expected slump in registrations has
not as yet taken place. That very fact is a credit to the pa-
triotism of every Grand Rapids resident.
So far, we're still a good bit away from the 100 per
cent goal. There are still many qualified voters who for one
reason or another have failed to keep their date at their lo-
cal elerk's office. It takes only a few short minutes, so Why
not stop in when you're downtown shopping or out for a drive.
Plan your schedule between now and Oct. 6th to Include & visit
to your City or Township Clerk for registration. REMEMBER -
TO VOTE NOV. 4th YOU MUST REGISTER BY OCT. 6th.