Okay, now this is interesting...I just received a note in my inbox, from my Congressman. It wasn't a group email, either.
First my Republican senator wrote a letter, and now I get an email from my Democratic Congressman touting a new award.
Now, I know this is an election year...but I just write a blog. Does this mean that it's true...bloggers can influence the world?
Anyway, in the spirit of bipartisanship, I'll let Rep. Rodgriguez toot his horn a bit...besides, many of my readers are in his district. (And, yes, his opponent, Lyle Larson, is welcome to speak his mind here, too, about sustainable agriculture/Victory Garden issues.)
And, for the record, I'd still love to hear what Rodriguez thinks of a formal, national Victory Garden revival. Senator Cornyn so graciously pointed us to the relevant committees in the Senate. I'd appreciate it if Rodriguez could do the same for the House.
Here goes...
Dear Ms. Price:
Knowing how important agriculture issues are to you, I want to take a moment to share with you news of an award I am so honored to have received. Earlier this week the American Farm Bureau Federation announced that I am a recipient of the prominent Friend of the Farm Bureau award in 2008. The award is given each congressional session by the American Farm Bureau Federation to members of Congress who have supported farm issues as shown by their voting records.
With much of the nearly 50,000 square miles in my district devoted to farming and ranching, I have sought to fight for bills that help agriculture and our agricultural communities. It's important to me to know that I am effectively responding to issues that matter most to so many of my constituents like you. As you are keenly aware, the farmers and ranchers in my district face unique challenges every day and I am proud to make sure their voices are heard in Washington.
I was among those that supported this year's historic Farm Bill. The 2008 Farm Bill takes a first step on reforms to farm payments, including beginning to place restrictions on farm subsidies for those who do not need them. I know that many of you feel that too much money in government payments has been going to large farms or agribusinesses. I share your concerns and believe it is important that we support our small family farms that have trouble making ends meet, rather than large corporate farms that consistently bring in profits. In addition, the federal government cannot afford to be making overpayments to high-profit farms in such a tight budget climate.
Individuals who receive the Friend of Farm Bureau award have been nominated by their respective state Farm Bureau and approved by the Board of Directors of the American Farm Bureau Federation. The voting records were based on priority issues selected by the American Farm Bureau. I am proud to be among those that are receiving this year's award.
As your Congressman, I will continue to work to represent you in Washington. Knowing what matters to my constituents is important to me and so I encourage you to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns regarding this or other federal issues.
Sincerely,
Ciro D. Rodriguez
Member of Congress
Update: Just in case...if McCain or Obama would like some space here...well, contact me through this page. (A gal can dream, right?)
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