Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Food Before Fuel
Take action on the Ethanol Crisis. Register your comment with the EPA before the comment deadline at THIS site. All the work has been done for you. Just fill out the form by following the prompts and it will generate your letter. It is important that we take action now!
Politicization of Environmental Science
OK. My first question is, "Who funded this study?"
Environmental Skeptics Are Overwhelmingly Politicized, Study Says
by Ben Block on June 11, 2008
A review of environmental skepticism literature from the past 30 years has found that the vast majority of skeptics, often identified as independent, are directly linked to politically oriented, conservative think tanks.
The study, published in this month's issue of Environmental Politics, analyzed books written between 1972 and 2005 that deny the urgency of environmental protection. The researchers found that more than 92 percent of the skeptical authors were in some way affiliated to conservative think tanks - non-profit research and advocacy organizations that promote core conservative ideals.
While many environmental skeptics are...(complete article here).
Environmental Skeptics Are Overwhelmingly Politicized, Study Says
by Ben Block on June 11, 2008
A review of environmental skepticism literature from the past 30 years has found that the vast majority of skeptics, often identified as independent, are directly linked to politically oriented, conservative think tanks.
The study, published in this month's issue of Environmental Politics, analyzed books written between 1972 and 2005 that deny the urgency of environmental protection. The researchers found that more than 92 percent of the skeptical authors were in some way affiliated to conservative think tanks - non-profit research and advocacy organizations that promote core conservative ideals.
While many environmental skeptics are...(complete article here).
Saturday, May 31, 2008
U.S. Senator Cornyn on Ethanol
U.S. Senator John Cornyn has graciously provided the guest posting below.
Hello Panhandle Poet readers…it’s a privilege to guest post here.
I wanted to touch base with you regarding an issue which is very pressing in the Panhandle, ethanol.
When first introduced to the marketplace, it was hoped that ethanol would help revitalize rural America, lower the price we pay at the pump and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
That’s a worthy goal, yet the government’s focus on ethanol has produced a problem. There have been unintended adverse consequences to our economy from the focus on ethanol production. Chiefly, since February of 2006 the combined price of corn, wheat and soybeans has increased more than 416 percent.
For this reason and many more, I co-sponsored legislation which was introduced recently to freeze the renewable fuel standard corn-based ethanol mandate at current 2008 levels.
In the panhandle, like other places, the effect of ethanol production has been mixed. While a few have benefitted from it, a great many others have suffered.
As more and more farmers grow corn for ethanol production, cattle feeding ration prices have shot sky high. Mandates, along with the high cost of fuel, are squeezing every bit of profit out of cattle feedlots today.
As consumers continue to see rising food and fuel prices, freezing the corn-based ethanol mandate will allow us to re-evaluate the consequences of using food for fuel and determine the best way forward. Texas will remain a leader as we work to diversify our nation’s energy supply to include alternative and renewable sources, but in the meantime Congress must exercise its oversight role to ensure there are no further unintended consequences. A freeze of the mandate will allow time for necessary assessments and reduce increasing grocery, grain and feed prices.
Last year, the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) provided the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to waive the mandates, or adjust them as necessary to provide relief for consumers.
Last month, I joined Sen. Hutchison and others in sending a letter to EPA Administrator requesting an update on the pending rule-making process for the waiver of all or portions of the ethanol mandate passed by Congress in 2007. The letter also urged the EPA to consider the sharp rise in food prices as they review the mandate.
Freezing the mandate at its current level for one year is not a long term solution, but it is a good start towards finding one.
My heartfelt thanks go to the Senator for addressing this issue and for providing this post.
Also posted on:
Panhandle's Perspective
Panhandle Poetry and Other Thoughts
Hello Panhandle Poet readers…it’s a privilege to guest post here.
I wanted to touch base with you regarding an issue which is very pressing in the Panhandle, ethanol.
When first introduced to the marketplace, it was hoped that ethanol would help revitalize rural America, lower the price we pay at the pump and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
That’s a worthy goal, yet the government’s focus on ethanol has produced a problem. There have been unintended adverse consequences to our economy from the focus on ethanol production. Chiefly, since February of 2006 the combined price of corn, wheat and soybeans has increased more than 416 percent.
For this reason and many more, I co-sponsored legislation which was introduced recently to freeze the renewable fuel standard corn-based ethanol mandate at current 2008 levels.
In the panhandle, like other places, the effect of ethanol production has been mixed. While a few have benefitted from it, a great many others have suffered.
As more and more farmers grow corn for ethanol production, cattle feeding ration prices have shot sky high. Mandates, along with the high cost of fuel, are squeezing every bit of profit out of cattle feedlots today.
As consumers continue to see rising food and fuel prices, freezing the corn-based ethanol mandate will allow us to re-evaluate the consequences of using food for fuel and determine the best way forward. Texas will remain a leader as we work to diversify our nation’s energy supply to include alternative and renewable sources, but in the meantime Congress must exercise its oversight role to ensure there are no further unintended consequences. A freeze of the mandate will allow time for necessary assessments and reduce increasing grocery, grain and feed prices.
Last year, the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) provided the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to waive the mandates, or adjust them as necessary to provide relief for consumers.
Last month, I joined Sen. Hutchison and others in sending a letter to EPA Administrator requesting an update on the pending rule-making process for the waiver of all or portions of the ethanol mandate passed by Congress in 2007. The letter also urged the EPA to consider the sharp rise in food prices as they review the mandate.
Freezing the mandate at its current level for one year is not a long term solution, but it is a good start towards finding one.
My heartfelt thanks go to the Senator for addressing this issue and for providing this post.
Also posted on:
Panhandle's Perspective
Panhandle Poetry and Other Thoughts
Friday, May 30, 2008
2007 Food Assistance Report From USDA
One of those things that tends to slip by us about the Farm Bill is that the bulk of it isn't about farming.
The Food Assistance Landscape: FY 2007 Annual Report
The Food Assistance Landscape: FY 2007 Annual Report
Friday, May 23, 2008
Senator Cornyn Visits With Bloggers
Yesterday I had the privilege of participating in a conference call with U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). It was an invitation only call issued to members of his blog roll.
I appreciate the Senator’s interest in keeping the members of his constituency informed through the new medium of bloggers. He closed his call by thanking bloggers for their role in sharing the news of what is happening in the world without the slanted agenda that is often behind the reporting of main-stream media.
The Senator opened the call with remarks about the Supplemental Troop Funding bill which passed the Senate by a 75-25 vote yesterday. He expressed his disappointment that the bill was saddled with an excessive number of non-defense related items that were added by members whose special interests overrode their concern for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. They saw the sure passage of the measure as an easy means of adding pork-barrel items with little threat of veto due to the imminent need for the funding.
Also included on the bill was a modernization of the GI Bill-of-rights. He indicated that he believed such modernization was necessary and proper yet did not seem to be fully pleased with some of the provisions in the bill.
The Senator also remarked about the rising cost of gasoline and the impact that it was having on our lifestyles and our economy. It seems that the agenda of many of the Democrats in positions of power is overriding the common sense of developing our own resources in a sensible manner. While recognizing the need for conservation, we must develop domestic oil supplies from proven reserves as well as encourage the construction of additional domestic refining capacity. These items would help alleviate prices through a focus on the supply side of the equation. It will be necessary to expand our domestic supply to help offset the growing international demand from countries such as China whose economy is requiring energy at an increasing rate.
After his opening remarks, the Senator opened the call to questions from participants. The questions ranged from the vote to override the President’s veto of the Farm Bill (voted yes to override), to additional questions about energy (including the impact of the ethanol mandates) and gun-control.
On the question of ethanol, the Senator noted that the mandates were a perfect example of unintended consequences. He especially noted the negative impact to water and land demands and their impact on food prices through competing away acreage from the production of other crops. He also noted the negative impact to livestock and poultry producers through the escalating price of feed. He, along with several other Senators, has requested the EPA to adjust the mandates according to the provision in the original enabling legislation that allows them to do so.
He also noted that the ethanol mandates have caused many to behave illogically. He specifically cited a story released through Bloomberg on Wednesday, about the Postal Service driving ethanol powered vehicles that were 28% less efficient than similar gasoline powered vehicles. They were burning more fuel to travel the same distance.
I appreciate the Senator’s willingness to take the time to visit with the blogging community. I look forward to the next opportunity. If you are interested in joining the Senator Cornyn blogging community, contact Vincent@johncornyn.com.
Also posted on Panhandle Poetry and Other Thoughts.
I appreciate the Senator’s interest in keeping the members of his constituency informed through the new medium of bloggers. He closed his call by thanking bloggers for their role in sharing the news of what is happening in the world without the slanted agenda that is often behind the reporting of main-stream media.
The Senator opened the call with remarks about the Supplemental Troop Funding bill which passed the Senate by a 75-25 vote yesterday. He expressed his disappointment that the bill was saddled with an excessive number of non-defense related items that were added by members whose special interests overrode their concern for our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. They saw the sure passage of the measure as an easy means of adding pork-barrel items with little threat of veto due to the imminent need for the funding.
Also included on the bill was a modernization of the GI Bill-of-rights. He indicated that he believed such modernization was necessary and proper yet did not seem to be fully pleased with some of the provisions in the bill.
The Senator also remarked about the rising cost of gasoline and the impact that it was having on our lifestyles and our economy. It seems that the agenda of many of the Democrats in positions of power is overriding the common sense of developing our own resources in a sensible manner. While recognizing the need for conservation, we must develop domestic oil supplies from proven reserves as well as encourage the construction of additional domestic refining capacity. These items would help alleviate prices through a focus on the supply side of the equation. It will be necessary to expand our domestic supply to help offset the growing international demand from countries such as China whose economy is requiring energy at an increasing rate.
After his opening remarks, the Senator opened the call to questions from participants. The questions ranged from the vote to override the President’s veto of the Farm Bill (voted yes to override), to additional questions about energy (including the impact of the ethanol mandates) and gun-control.
On the question of ethanol, the Senator noted that the mandates were a perfect example of unintended consequences. He especially noted the negative impact to water and land demands and their impact on food prices through competing away acreage from the production of other crops. He also noted the negative impact to livestock and poultry producers through the escalating price of feed. He, along with several other Senators, has requested the EPA to adjust the mandates according to the provision in the original enabling legislation that allows them to do so.
He also noted that the ethanol mandates have caused many to behave illogically. He specifically cited a story released through Bloomberg on Wednesday, about the Postal Service driving ethanol powered vehicles that were 28% less efficient than similar gasoline powered vehicles. They were burning more fuel to travel the same distance.
I appreciate the Senator’s willingness to take the time to visit with the blogging community. I look forward to the next opportunity. If you are interested in joining the Senator Cornyn blogging community, contact Vincent@johncornyn.com.
Also posted on Panhandle Poetry and Other Thoughts.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
DOI Study Shows Untapped Energy Resources
It's good to see a number put on these untapped resources.
Oil and Gas Report Offers Roadmap for Energy Relief
U.S. public lands estimated to hold 31 billion barrels of oil and 231 trillion cubic feet of natural gas
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- With average national gas prices hovering around $4 per gallon, the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management today released a study that shows vast untapped oil and natural gas resources exist on public lands in the United States. “America has abundant energy resources,” said Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Land and Minerals Management C. Stephen Allred. “However, for a variety of reasons, many of these resources are not available for development. At a time when energy prices have reached record levels and Americans are feeling the impact, we must find ways to...(complete article here).
Oil and Gas Report Offers Roadmap for Energy Relief
U.S. public lands estimated to hold 31 billion barrels of oil and 231 trillion cubic feet of natural gas
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- With average national gas prices hovering around $4 per gallon, the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management today released a study that shows vast untapped oil and natural gas resources exist on public lands in the United States. “America has abundant energy resources,” said Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Land and Minerals Management C. Stephen Allred. “However, for a variety of reasons, many of these resources are not available for development. At a time when energy prices have reached record levels and Americans are feeling the impact, we must find ways to...(complete article here).
Farm Bill Sent to the President
From the U.S. House of Representatives:
Congress Sends Farm Bill to White House
WASHINGTON, DC – This afternoon, Congress sent H.R. 2419, the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 to President Bush. The bill passed the House of Representatives with a vote of 318-106 and passed the Senate with a vote of 81-15 last week.
“I hope that President Bush will seriously consider the many positive steps this bill takes to improve nutrition programs that are important to so many Americans, particularly during these difficult economic times; to expand and improve conservation programs that help farmers protect the environment; to continue and improve the safety net for farmers; to support fruit and vegetable producers and to encourage renewable energy production from cellulosic sources,” Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson said.
“We made every effort to work with Administration officials throughout the Farm Bill process, even when they showed no interest in coming to compromise on these important issues,” Chairman Peterson said. “While the President has pledged to veto the bill, I hope that the strong, bipartisan votes in the House and Senate will demonstrate its importance to the American people and lead him to sign it into law.”
The current extension of the 2002 Farm Bill expires on Friday, May 23, 2008.
Congress Sends Farm Bill to White House
WASHINGTON, DC – This afternoon, Congress sent H.R. 2419, the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 to President Bush. The bill passed the House of Representatives with a vote of 318-106 and passed the Senate with a vote of 81-15 last week.
“I hope that President Bush will seriously consider the many positive steps this bill takes to improve nutrition programs that are important to so many Americans, particularly during these difficult economic times; to expand and improve conservation programs that help farmers protect the environment; to continue and improve the safety net for farmers; to support fruit and vegetable producers and to encourage renewable energy production from cellulosic sources,” Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson said.
“We made every effort to work with Administration officials throughout the Farm Bill process, even when they showed no interest in coming to compromise on these important issues,” Chairman Peterson said. “While the President has pledged to veto the bill, I hope that the strong, bipartisan votes in the House and Senate will demonstrate its importance to the American people and lead him to sign it into law.”
The current extension of the 2002 Farm Bill expires on Friday, May 23, 2008.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
U.S. Percent Foreign Oil Falling
This could spell bad news for efforts to reduce the ethanol mandates.
US begins to break foreign oil ‘addiction’
By Carola Hoyos, Chief Energy Correspondent
Published: May 19 2008 14:28
The US is starting to break its “addiction” to foreign oil as high prices, more efficient cars, and the use of ethanol significantly cut the share of its oil imports for the first time since 1977.
The country’s foreign oil dependency is expected to fall from 60 per cent to 50 per cent in 2015, before rising again slightly to 54 per cent in 2030, according to...(complete article here).
US begins to break foreign oil ‘addiction’
By Carola Hoyos, Chief Energy Correspondent
Published: May 19 2008 14:28
The US is starting to break its “addiction” to foreign oil as high prices, more efficient cars, and the use of ethanol significantly cut the share of its oil imports for the first time since 1977.
The country’s foreign oil dependency is expected to fall from 60 per cent to 50 per cent in 2015, before rising again slightly to 54 per cent in 2030, according to...(complete article here).
Monday, May 19, 2008
Hutchison Bill Seeks Ethanol Freeze
Both Senators from Texas have been working to ease the economic burdens of ethanol. Bravo.
Senator promotes bill to freeze ethanol mandate
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Texas Republican Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison introduced legislation on Monday to freeze the federal mandate for corn-based ethanol at...(complete article here).
Senator promotes bill to freeze ethanol mandate
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Texas Republican Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison introduced legislation on Monday to freeze the federal mandate for corn-based ethanol at...(complete article here).
Where is Your Gasoline Dollar Going?
The post linked below is from Michael Williams, Chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission, which regulates oil and gas in Texas. It helps put things in perspective.
Who’s making money from these high gasoline prices?
May 18, 2008
Who’s getting fat from higher crude oil and gasoline prices?
The Saudi, Russian, Venezuelan, etc. nationalized oil companies. They own 75% of the world’s crude oil reserves. Exxon, the veritable villain for high gasoline prices, controls less than 3% of world reserves.
The pump price is comprised of four components. The main one is...(complete post here).
Who’s making money from these high gasoline prices?
May 18, 2008
Who’s getting fat from higher crude oil and gasoline prices?
The Saudi, Russian, Venezuelan, etc. nationalized oil companies. They own 75% of the world’s crude oil reserves. Exxon, the veritable villain for high gasoline prices, controls less than 3% of world reserves.
The pump price is comprised of four components. The main one is...(complete post here).
Friday, May 16, 2008
Senator Cornyn Statement on Farm Bill
It still has to cross the President's desk but with enough votes for a veto override, it is likely this Farm Bill will become law.
Cornyn: Final Farm Bill Good For Texas Agriculture Community
Says Texas Farmers & Ranchers Will Benefit from Carefully-Crafted Compromise
Thursday, May 15, 2008WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn expressed his support today for final Senate passage of The Food and Energy Security Act of 2007, H.R. 2419, more popularly known as the “Farm Bill.” With today’s approval vote by the Senate, and yesterday’s passage of this bill in the House, the legislation will now be sent to the President’s desk.
“Passage of this bill is an important and long-overdue step for Texas farmers and ranchers, providing them a stable policy moving forward. It’s not perfect but it represents a carefully-crafted compromise that will protect Texas agriculture, including family farms, strengthen key nutrition programs, and fight childhood obesity.
“One in every seven Texans can trace their employment to agriculture. In...(complete news release here).
Cornyn: Final Farm Bill Good For Texas Agriculture Community
Says Texas Farmers & Ranchers Will Benefit from Carefully-Crafted Compromise
Thursday, May 15, 2008WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn expressed his support today for final Senate passage of The Food and Energy Security Act of 2007, H.R. 2419, more popularly known as the “Farm Bill.” With today’s approval vote by the Senate, and yesterday’s passage of this bill in the House, the legislation will now be sent to the President’s desk.
“Passage of this bill is an important and long-overdue step for Texas farmers and ranchers, providing them a stable policy moving forward. It’s not perfect but it represents a carefully-crafted compromise that will protect Texas agriculture, including family farms, strengthen key nutrition programs, and fight childhood obesity.
“One in every seven Texans can trace their employment to agriculture. In...(complete news release here).
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Senator Cornyn Continues to Push for Colombia Free Trade Agreement
The Colombia Free Trade Agreement is important to agriculture. It makes no sense (other than arbitrary wielding of power) for Speaker Pelosi to block a vote on this agreement.
Cornyn: Democrats' Obstruction of Colombia Free Trade Agreement is Harming Texas Jobs
Texas, U.S. exports taxed with more than $1 billion in tariffs as House Speaker blocks vote
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
WASHINGTON—In remarks delivered on the Senate floor this morning, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, Vice Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, said the recent decision by congressional Democrats to block consideration of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement is costing Texas businesses and farmers hundreds of millions of dollars in unnecessary tariffs.
Sen. Cornyn also pressed this issue at...(complete news release here).
Cornyn: Democrats' Obstruction of Colombia Free Trade Agreement is Harming Texas Jobs
Texas, U.S. exports taxed with more than $1 billion in tariffs as House Speaker blocks vote
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
WASHINGTON—In remarks delivered on the Senate floor this morning, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, Vice Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, said the recent decision by congressional Democrats to block consideration of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement is costing Texas businesses and farmers hundreds of millions of dollars in unnecessary tariffs.
Sen. Cornyn also pressed this issue at...(complete news release here).
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Texas RRC Commission Chair: Further Thoughts on Global Warming
Texas Railroad Commission Chairman, Michael Williams, continues his post on Global Warming....
Global warming II
May 5, 2008
More and more research is coming in concluding that, like everything else, there’s no free lunch with federal cap and trade legislation.
The federal Energy Information Agency took a look at S. 2191, the Lieberman-Warner bill. In its April report, EIA concluded:
1. Hold on to your pocketbook. Consumer energy bills will...(complete article here).
Global warming II
May 5, 2008
More and more research is coming in concluding that, like everything else, there’s no free lunch with federal cap and trade legislation.
The federal Energy Information Agency took a look at S. 2191, the Lieberman-Warner bill. In its April report, EIA concluded:
1. Hold on to your pocketbook. Consumer energy bills will...(complete article here).
Friday, May 2, 2008
The President's Request for Additional Food Aid Dollars
The Press Release by the Whitehouse about the President's request for an additional $770 million in food aid is an interesting read. Follow the link to the complete article.
Fact Sheet: Leading the Fight Against Hunger
President Bush Requests Additional Global Food Assistance To Ensure Millions Facing Hunger Get The Food They Need
"The American people are generous people and they're compassionate people. We believe in a timeless truth: To whom much is given, much is expected. And so therefore at home we are working to ensure that the neediest among us can cope with the rising food prices. And with the new international funding I'm announcing today, we're sending a clear message to the world: that America will lead the fight against hunger for years to come."
– President George W. Bush, 5/1/08
Today, President Bush called on Congress to provide an additional $770 million to support food aid and development programs. Rising prices have complicated our worldwide food assistance efforts and...(complete article here).
The very last part of the Press Release refers to the impact of biofuels production on the global food commodities pricing. Specifically, it compares the percentage increase in the U.S. to the global increase. The issue is both complex and politically charged. I have been a supporter of President Bush on most issues throughout his tenure. I believe that he has done an admirable job in one of the most difficult positions on the planet through very trying times. Ethanol is one issue with which I am in total disagreement with him. Perhaps it is because of the devastating impact that it has had on livestock production in the U.S. Perhaps it is because I oppose unnecessary Federal mandates when the free market is the best determiner of the allocation of inputs in the economy. Perhaps it is because increased corn production is putting additional pressure on scarce water resources used for irrigation. Perhaps it is just a strong sense that it is the wrong direction in which to focus our efforts toward energy independence. There is a huge amount of capital being poured into biofuels today. Would that money not be better invested in new technology?
I pray that the President will not become tethered to this misguided policy through a sense of "staying-the-course" when a change of course might be more prudent. There are no easy answers to the energy issues that we face. We will make some faltering missteps along the way. Just like a baby learning to walk, or a young person leaving home to face the world on their own, we will make mistakes. We must learn to accept mistakes for what they are -- learning experiences -- then move on to something better.
Fact Sheet: Leading the Fight Against Hunger
President Bush Requests Additional Global Food Assistance To Ensure Millions Facing Hunger Get The Food They Need
"The American people are generous people and they're compassionate people. We believe in a timeless truth: To whom much is given, much is expected. And so therefore at home we are working to ensure that the neediest among us can cope with the rising food prices. And with the new international funding I'm announcing today, we're sending a clear message to the world: that America will lead the fight against hunger for years to come."
– President George W. Bush, 5/1/08
Today, President Bush called on Congress to provide an additional $770 million to support food aid and development programs. Rising prices have complicated our worldwide food assistance efforts and...(complete article here).
The very last part of the Press Release refers to the impact of biofuels production on the global food commodities pricing. Specifically, it compares the percentage increase in the U.S. to the global increase. The issue is both complex and politically charged. I have been a supporter of President Bush on most issues throughout his tenure. I believe that he has done an admirable job in one of the most difficult positions on the planet through very trying times. Ethanol is one issue with which I am in total disagreement with him. Perhaps it is because of the devastating impact that it has had on livestock production in the U.S. Perhaps it is because I oppose unnecessary Federal mandates when the free market is the best determiner of the allocation of inputs in the economy. Perhaps it is because increased corn production is putting additional pressure on scarce water resources used for irrigation. Perhaps it is just a strong sense that it is the wrong direction in which to focus our efforts toward energy independence. There is a huge amount of capital being poured into biofuels today. Would that money not be better invested in new technology?
I pray that the President will not become tethered to this misguided policy through a sense of "staying-the-course" when a change of course might be more prudent. There are no easy answers to the energy issues that we face. We will make some faltering missteps along the way. Just like a baby learning to walk, or a young person leaving home to face the world on their own, we will make mistakes. We must learn to accept mistakes for what they are -- learning experiences -- then move on to something better.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Trade, Texas, Security and Prosperity
Senator Cornyn speaks again about the political maneuvering by Nancy Pelosi regarding the Columbian Free Trade Agreement.
Trade boosts Texas prosperity, national security
Monday, April 21, 2008
By: Sen. John Cornyn
From its beginning as a state, Texas has prospered through trade. Texans work hard and efficiently, and what we produce is highly valued around the globe.
In the early days of Texas statehood, cotton was king, and most of it was exported to mills abroad. Then came the Texas cowboy and cattle drive era, the beginning of our international beef industry.
Today, Texas leads all states in exports of goods, ranging from...(complete article here).
Trade boosts Texas prosperity, national security
Monday, April 21, 2008
By: Sen. John Cornyn
From its beginning as a state, Texas has prospered through trade. Texans work hard and efficiently, and what we produce is highly valued around the globe.
In the early days of Texas statehood, cotton was king, and most of it was exported to mills abroad. Then came the Texas cowboy and cattle drive era, the beginning of our international beef industry.
Today, Texas leads all states in exports of goods, ranging from...(complete article here).
Thursday, April 10, 2008
House Farm Bill Conferees
It's about time....
House Agriculture Committee Chairman Announces Farm Bill Conferees
WASHINGTON, DC – Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson today announced the list of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives to participate in the conference committee that will negotiate the 2008 Farm Bill.
“The Members serving on this conference committee have...(complete news release here).
House Agriculture Committee Chairman Announces Farm Bill Conferees
WASHINGTON, DC – Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson today announced the list of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives to participate in the conference committee that will negotiate the 2008 Farm Bill.
“The Members serving on this conference committee have...(complete news release here).
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Border Enforcement
This is another issue that is important to all sectors of the economy. Senator Cornyn speaks some good common sense in this press release.
Cornyn: Federal Government Must Do More To Help Border Law Enforcement Personnel
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
WASHINGTON—At a hearing on Capitol Hill today, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, pressed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff on the need for the federal government to do more to aid border communities struggling with the costs of illegal immigration.
“I have heard from a number of...(complete press release here).
Cornyn: Federal Government Must Do More To Help Border Law Enforcement Personnel
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
WASHINGTON—At a hearing on Capitol Hill today, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, pressed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff on the need for the federal government to do more to aid border communities struggling with the costs of illegal immigration.
“I have heard from a number of...(complete press release here).
Cornyn Pushing for Farm Bill Action
It's time for the logjam to break on a Farm Bill. I hope Senator Cornyn can get it to rolling. It is very important to his constituents -- even those who don't realize how important agriculture is to the economy of the state of Texas.
Cornyn Seeks Action On Final Farm Bill
Provides Texas Farm Bureau Members with Legislative Update on Capitol Hill
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn met with members of the Texas Farm Bureau on Capitol Hill today and said that he continues to advocate...(complete news release here).
Cornyn Seeks Action On Final Farm Bill
Provides Texas Farm Bureau Members with Legislative Update on Capitol Hill
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn met with members of the Texas Farm Bureau on Capitol Hill today and said that he continues to advocate...(complete news release here).
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Cuban Reforms?
OK. What they need to do is let the farmers own the land and create a free market system. The Cuban brand of communism doesn't work -- just like it didn't work in the USSR -- and just like it isn't working anywhere! Even China is easing toward capitalism and the results can be witnessed in their explosive growth.
Cuba lending farmers state land
Cuba has begun lending unused state land to private farmers and co-operatives as part of efforts to boost agricultural output.
Officials estimate about half of all arable land in Cuba is currently underused or fallow.
The government has already started to...(complete article here).
Cuba lending farmers state land
Cuba has begun lending unused state land to private farmers and co-operatives as part of efforts to boost agricultural output.
Officials estimate about half of all arable land in Cuba is currently underused or fallow.
The government has already started to...(complete article here).
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Congressional Earmarks
I try to stay away from political posts on this blog but, Congressional Earmarks is an issue that afffects all of us and every industry. Please take a look at my post on Panhandle Poetry and Other Thoughts concerning the issue. It includes a link to Senator John Cornyn's (R-TX) post on the subject.
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