John Block Reports from Washington

Last week I was down on the farm for our annual pig roast. Now I don't want to suggest that all is quiet, safe, tranquil and perfect in rural America. I know that some regions have suffered a serious drought. I know there is crime in rural American and terrible things happen sometimes. But once again I found farm country to be a breath of fresh air, a comforting relief, a bit of useful nostalgia.

This is the comparison I'm talking about. We have a cold-blooded killer on the loose here in the Washington area. He kills for sport. The schools have cancelled all outside activities. No soccer. No Friday night football. Everyone afraid to gas their car up. FOliunately this problem isn't everywhere in big city America but there are other problems. The inner cities still have gang violence. Carjacking is a popular sport.

But down on the farm neighbors and friends came to enjoy a beautiful fall evening of fun and fellowship. The bonfires sent flames leaping skyward. The bands played toe-tapping music. And, of course, the food -- pork barbeque and every delicious dish you can imagine was brought by the guests. The mood was happy and joyous.

In our little town of 3000 people, I noted with relief the lack of traffic. In fact, we don't even have a stoplight or stop sign as you drive through Main Street. Houses are locked sometimes. Sometimes not. Everyone knows about everyone else. Welcome to small town USA.

My wife, my daughter and mother-in-law all rode the combine harvesting corn. What fun! And in the barns the baby pi8gs were being born as we watched. We helped the little one get their first taste of mother's milk.

If you live in farm and ranch country, be grateful. If you don't, come and visit. There is a lot to like about the wholesome values of rural America.

Until next week, I am John Block, reporting from Washington. I can't wait to get back "down on the farm."