Images framed through a video camera lens limit the scope of scenes they record, as a southwestern Michigan blueberry farmer knows all too well after falling victim to a narrow, misleading television report. The whole story shows a much different picture. Blueberry photo by Mari Maloney, Capture Studios, St. Joseph.
How to frame a farmer
With one eye shut and the other looking through a narrow lens, ABC fed viewers an anorexic version - or rather perversion - of truth. The lead-in to the story begins with a British voice saying "Americans as young as five years old are forced to work in fields in blistering heat. We confront one producer under fire." Click here for full story.MSU-led study to examine climate change effect on tart cherries
A team of international researchers led by a Michigan State University climatologist will conduct a first-of-its-kind study to measure the effects of climate change on global industries. Click here for full story.TB fight entering final rounds
One thing about Michigan's long-running TB problem: It has built character. But only if you agree that repeated knock-downs build character. If you don't, one thing's still certain. Getting off the ground time after time demonstrates character, and there are few characters more resilient than farmers in five TB-plagued counties in northeastern Michigan and the folks at the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA), who finally can stand without wobbly knees come Jan. 4. Click here for full story.Consumers Energy modifies land rent
As a result of productive discussions with representatives from Farm Bureau, Consumers Energy will modify its agricultural rental program. As a result of these discussions, local farmers can expect to receive additional information from Consumers Energy within the next 30-45 days. Click here for full story.