Not only to the individual, but also to the class association do these characteristics appeal with special force. For, unlike the trade journal, it goes out among the general public as a factor in the education of those who seek information of the special kind. In this way it is a means for extending the operation of the industry, and consequently of increasing the membership and influence of the association. And right here is a point which those who have been operating in the industry for some time should consider. If any portion of the general public is to receive through the class journal the information desired, there must of necessity appear in the journal from time to time statistical or other matter with which the experienced nut grower is familiar. To a considerable extent the novice may be referred to existing literature on a special subject; but not all of such literature is readily available. For instance, the American Nut Journal has been carrying in each issue a summary of the figures showing the progress of the American nut industry. These figures have been seen repeatedly by experienced growers, but even for them they may prove convenient for reference; and certainly to the newcomer they should be interesting and valuable. Original matter, of course, must be the basis upon which the contents of a class publication are built. But an article, or a portion of an article, which has an important bearing on the specialty under consideration may often be reproduced in the class publication, even though it may have appeared elsewhere; for we are all too busy to read many publications, and the chief purpose of the class publication is to assemble from all sources that which particularly relates to the subject. In theory at least the class journal should be the storehouse to which in its bound and indexed form the subscriber may go for information on any phase of the special subject. That is a high and not altogether attainable ideal, but the nearer the journal approaches to that aim the more valuable will it be to its subscribers. It should at least record the sources of all information on its special subject, even if it cannot present it all.
What has here been said in outline regarding the function of the class journal will indicate to the nut grower the place the American Nut Journal should occupy in the development of nut culture. It is unnecessary to say that co-operation between the editor and those in the industry is essential, and for that reason all should feel free to exchange views through this medium. Aside from the practical benefit it may be to the individual, it is a constant source of publicity for the organized effort represented in an association of nut growers—and it is through publicity that an industry develops.
To deserve the co-operation of all in the industry the management of the class publication representing it must determine what is the highest and largest function of the field which it serves and then strive in every legitimate way to promote that function.
To deserve the manifold advantages which such a publication affords it is incumbent upon those in the industry, on their part, to make it possible through their subscriptions and through their advertising to maintain such a medium. It is probable that if there were no such publication every loyal member of this association would gladly pledge ten cents a month provided some one could be found who would expend the time and effort to provide it. Just that opportunity has been presented, and it is a pleasure to say that many have appreciated it.
The President: There is no one thing that would get results for you better than a good periodical. The Department of Agriculture issues bulletins but that department cannot go into the journal business, the business of publishing my opinion or someone else's opinion. The Department of Agriculture must confine itself to the summaries of facts, and that leaves a gap that must be filled in by some good periodical properly edited. It is with great pleasure that we see the American Nut Journal which Mr. Olcott is putting out and attempting to give us the best he can get. The chair will be glad to hear any further suggestions on this subject.
W. C. Reed: I think we are very fortunate in having a journal of this kind, and having known Mr. Olcott for a number of years I know he is giving the people a good journal. I think it is customary in most instances for all trade organizations to have their journal, and I think in this case the Northern Nut Growers Association ought to adopt The American Nut Journal as their official organ. I make that as a motion.
Mr. McCoy: I second the motion.
The President: It has been moved and seconded that we adopt The American Nut Journal as the official organ of our association.
(Motion unanimously carried.)