Shutdown Showdown (The Sequel) After yet another recess, Congress returned to DC on Tuesday to continue fighting about how to prevent a government shutdown in 10 days when the fiscal year ends and the money runs out. This being an election year, the posturing and politics are particularly intense, but as usual, it is expected … Read more

Minnesota has played a major role in the expansion of the American wine industry by creating new grape varieties that can withstand very cold temperatures, thereby expanding the earth’s ability to host viable vineyards. Horticulturist Elmer Swenson and the University of Minnesota created many cold-hardy varieties, and several years ago a USDA-funded Northern Grapes Project … Read more

DC Updates Congress returns to Washington next week, following an extended August recess, and with another long pre-election recess looming, It is now crunch time for dealing with major issues, like avoiding a government shutdown before September 30 when we run out of money. The negotiations are intensified by all the nasty politics of an … Read more

Michigan is one of the most successful wine states, combining a long and rich history with pioneering vintners, superb research, and effective trade associations. The first grapes were planted in 1780, and for decades the vineyards were dominated by native varieties like Concord, Catawba, and Niagara, much of which was destined for Welch’s grape juice. … Read more

Old New Priorities Washington moves slowly (and not at all in August), and it typically takes several years to conceive, articulate, introduce, support, and pass any piece of legislation. In addition, often the smaller, “stand-alone” bills are folded into larger “omnibus” measures, which means they get held up even more. Still, we’re encouraged that a … Read more