[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 48 (Thursday, March 25, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E572]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         BEAN THERE, DONE THAT

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                          HON. JAMES A. BARCIA

                              of michigan

                             HON. DAVE CAMP

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 25, 1999

  Mr. BARCIA. Mr. Speaker, we have all heard the famous story of 
Speaker Joe Cannon yelling ``Thunderation!'' when he went to the 
Member's Dining Room wanting a bowl of Michigan Navy Bean Soup, and not 
finding it on the menu. Ever since that day, this soup with its main 
ingredient, the Navy Bean, coming from most likely my congressional 
district, has been on the menu. But how many of you have heard the 
story of John A. McGill, Jr., the now-retired Executive Vice-President 
and Treasurer of the Michigan Bean Shippers Association having lunch 
with our former colleague, Bob Traxler, in the same dining room, and 
having to once again yell ``Thunderation'' when someone substituted 
impostor Great Northern Beans for the historic and acclaimed Navy Bean?
  From 1969 until August 28, 1998, John McGill actively worked to 
promote the interests of the Michigan dry bean industry. Both shippers 
and growers benefited from this gentleman's expertise, his savy 
business sense, and his well-known resolve to fight for what he 
believes to be right. And our Navy Bean Soup remains secure.
  His work on behalf of research both at the Saginaw Valley Bean and 
Beet Farm and Michigan State University has resulted in the development 
of new varieties that will be planted for years to come. John was a 
major player in making sure the Michigan's beans continue to appear on 
plates throughout the United Kingdom. He participated in many trade 
missions to Africa and other potential markets with the U.S. Department 
of Agriculture, and was a vital player in increasing our sales in 
Mexico. His development and continued publication of the Michigan Dry 
Bean Digest provides one of the most comprehensive documents available 
to the industry. And he will never be forgotten for his devotion and 
competitiveness in the annual MBSA golf tournament at the Association's 
summer meeting.
  Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, to John and his wife Donna, we offer our most 
sincere best wishes and friendship in return for years of their 
guidance, friendship, sense of humor, and support. John's leadership 
for Michigan dry beans and for all of agriculture in Michigan--spanning 
the decades--will not be forgotten soon. He has truly set an example 
for future leaders, and to colleagues and friends. Mr. Speaker, we urge 
you and all of our colleagues to join us in wishing this wonderful 
gentleman his happiest years ever. May his hunting sights be filled, 
his tee shots straight and long, and his duck carving tools sharp and 
true.

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