DC Update: Deadlines and Dead Ends The Senate was back this week, with the House joining them next week after a very long summer recess. Between now and the end of this month, both chambers will be in DC at the same time for just 11 days. That’s important (and alarming) because a government shutdown … Read more

North Dakota was notably the last state since repeal of Prohibition to license a winery—in 2002!    Bordering Canada, it is also one of the many states which have benefited from the extremely cold hardy “Minnesota” grape varieties. In the past two decades, the local wine industry has benefited from the state Department of Agriculture’s … Read more

Falling Fast Fall is officially still three weeks away, but there are plenty of reminders that it’s fast approaching. It’s Labor Day weekend. Dawn is later, dusk is earlier. Daily highs and lows are falling. Keuka Lake temp is now 74 after nearing 80. The first lake-effect cloud appeared early Monday morning. Harvest is over … Read more

North Carolina began growing grapes in the 17th century, was first to cultivate Scuppernong, and today ranks tenth in grape and wine production in the U.S. Like all state wine industries, North Carolina’s was wiped out by Prohibition and took time to bounce back, but today is vibrant and growing. While Scuppernong remains the single … Read more

Even when Congress is on its long, annual, August/September recess, they can manage to spoil the summer with threats of a government shutdown on October 1 unless a small minority of House members get their way. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) have both called for a “continuing resolution” … Read more