President Bush’s Address to the Nation

This past week, President Bush addressed the nation regarding the war in Iraq and his plan moving forward. The President was very candid in his assessment, and I appreciate the honesty and acknowledgement of past mistakes. He also made it very clear that this is a “formidable” challenge and one that will extend beyond his presidency.

It was very important for the American people to hear the President lay out his strategy to win in Iraq both politically and militarily. Amidst the debate confronting us, it was welcome to hear that, should conditions continue to improve, troops will begin to come home, and by June 2008, a projected total of five combat brigades will return home.

There is much progress to be made, but I believe the President’s vision of a long term strategic partner and a democracy in the Middle East will serve not only our nation’s best interest, but also help establish regional stability in the Middle East.

Last Week in the District

After General Petraeus’ and Ambassador Crocker’s testimony last week, the House of Representatives went into recess, and I had the opportunity to travel to several communities to hear from you. Here is a rundown of several events I took part in last week:

Wednesday
Visit to Texas Tech

Wednesday morning I attended a press conference at the Institute of Environmental and Human Health at Texas Tech University (TIEHH) to announce a $4.1 million dollar grant TIEHH obtained from the U.S. Army.  There is a lot of competition for this funding, and the fact that TIEHH was awarded $4.1 million shows the importance of their work.

The Zumwalt research program at TIEHH has been at the forefront when it comes to finding innovative means to counter chemical and biological threats.  I am confident that Texas Tech will continue to build upon its distinguished reputation and bring groundbreaking advancements that are vital in fighting terrorism. For more information on the specific work of TIEHH, please visit: http://www.depts.ttu.edu/communications/news/stories/07-09-TIEHH-counterterrorism.php

Attended the World Cotton Research Conference

The World Cotton Research Conference had its fourth annual meeting, and this was the first time it was held in the United States. Forty four countries were represented to discuss new advances in cotton production research. I was pleased Lubbock was chosen for such an event and honored to attend and speak to such a diverse audience on important agriculture issues, and specifically cotton production in the 19th District.

THURSDAY
Meeting with Albany Lions Club

On Thursday I had to opportunity to sit down over lunch and discuss current issues in Congress that were on the minds of many of the residents of Albany. This was a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from the people of the 19th District. The topics that dominated our discussion were the Global War on Terror, the 2007 Farm Bill and health care.

I was pleased to be able to explain to them how I voted and why. I explained that when I cast a “no” vote,  it doesn’t mean I am simply against something, but that I am voting to support the common sense values and ideals West Texans believe in.

Genesis Networks Business Tour

Later that day, I drove to Abilene to meet with the folks at Genesis Networks, a company that tests software for telecommunications companies. Genesis is leading the charge in West Texas, bringing high tech jobs to the Big Country and helping our local economy grow. In one year, Genesis Networks has grown from 12 to 82 employees. Additionally, they are providing jobs for those who have grown up in Texas, allowing individuals to stay in their home communities where they can enjoy the values of West Texas.

FRIDAY
Dyess Air Force Base Visit

On Friday morning I attended a very emotional ceremony, where a number of Dyess Airmen were meeting with their commanders and family before their deployment to Iraq. I briefly spoke with these brave men and women and expressed my pride and thanks, as well as that of our President and the entire nation. I thanked them and their families for their sacrifices and all they do to protect the freedoms we enjoy and look forward to greeting them when they return.

Tour of Texas Tech Pharmacy School in Abilene

Later in the afternoon, I was invited to take a tour of the new satellite campus of the Texas Tech Pharmacy School in Abilene. I also met with Dean Kim Powell, other administrators as well as the first freshman class of 40 students. I must say that I am very proud of Texas Tech and their expansion that will allow students to study closer to home and help graduate more pharmacists to work in rural areas.

--Randy