You’ll have to explain this to the grandkids — this ad from our June 7, 1951 issue offered tips on party line etiquette, reminding rural subscribers with magneto telephones to ring off rather than using the push button when completing a call, as well as to replace the receiver gently so as not to disturb a neighbour’s conversation.

At a meeting of the International Federation of Agricultural Producers (IFAP) in Mexico City, delegates heard a plea from an Indian representative for assistance with an urgent food shortage in his country. However, another story reported that India had turned down a second offer of lower-grade wheat from Canada. External Affairs Minister Lester Pearson said the offer was turned down because the wheat was not suitable for making the type of flatbread baked on open fires in India.

Another story from Ottawa said the government was asking Parliament to proceed with development of the St. Lawrence Seaway. It was prepared to go ahead with the project even if it did not get agreement (later received) with the U.S. to share costs.

A brief report on Prairie crop conditions said there was urgent need for rain in all three provinces, with soil drifting reported and later-seeded crops showing uneven germination.

Later that month Manitoba poultry producers were facing an outbreak of Newcastle disease, which had been identified at 30 premises. A federal culling and compensation program was underway.