The Big Blue Huckleberry Barbecue Was a Hit

I am glad to report that the Big Blue Huckleberry Barbecue was an immense success! Thank you to the overflow crowd of loyal Democrats who made the effort to attend. Thanks to you, we netted almost $5000. With the help of a creative advanced PR effort, we sold every available ticket. In fact, the demand was so strong that certain committee members gave up tickets so others could attend. I’ll tell you a secret, we raised way more than we expected.

It was a highlight of the event to see so many Democrats who have not been spotted for a while. It was also a delight to meet the new Democrats in attendance as well. I only wish I had the time to speak with more folks individually.

I can assure you that the music was enjoyable, the food tasty and plentiful, and the story telling entertaining. In other words, the 2023 Big Blue Huckleberry BBQ was a blast.

My thanks to the planners who made it all possible: Dan Studer, Paula Marano, Paula Neils, Lori Bryant, Katie Mans, and Sarah Glenn. Thanks also to the volunteers: Carolyn Mattoon, Mary Foster, Shawn Keenan, Rock Owens, Lauren Cuvala. And thank you to Teresa Borrenpohl and her side kick Matteo for emceeing the event.

Expansion of Transcontinental Pipeline Attracts Opposition

A natural gas pipeline called the Gas Transmission Northwest Express extends from Canada though the Idaho panhandle, along with southeast Washington plus Oregon and California. Calgary-based TC Energy, which owns this 61-year-old transcontinental pipeline, proposes to invest $335 million in upgrades to expand the pipeline’s capacity to accommodate an added 150 million cubic feet of natural gas per day.

The Attorneys General for Oregon, Washington, and California contend that TC Energy has not proven a true need for expanding this pipeline’s capacity. They also express that increasing natural gas infrastructure conflicts with existing climate goals to move away from fossil fuels.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has paused approval of this project due to the stated opposition. Currently, the commission plans to meet again Sept. 21 but has not scheduled a vote. You can read more about this issue in this article from the Capital Sun – Key vote on expanding gas pipeline in Oregon, N. Idaho delayed after public, political pressure. If you have concerns about this project, you can write to the FERC to express your opposition.

Have a fantastic week everyone. I hope you are enjoying your summer.