“Whiskey is for Drinking, Water is for Fighting” - Governmental and Legislative Processes Take Center Stage

By Gayle Holman, Sal Parra, Jr., and Christian Vellanoweth

March 8, 2016

This was the quote that Senator Dianne Feinstein shared with us this afternoon during our visit with her to discussdrought legislation. We were thrilled to have about 30 minutes of her time. One of our fellows shared his personal story of the devastating effects of the drought—in 2009 he and his family lost their family farm on the Westside of Fresno County. Fifteen hundred acres of melons, 500 employees and more than a million dollars in debt caused him to lose everything and end the family dream of farming. Senator Feinstein immediately responded by asking for his story to be put in writing for her to share with other Members of Congress to supporther legislation. She challenged each one of us to shareour story, write letters to her staff and committee, and help become a stronger voice for ag.

The day actually began in the lobby of the hotel when one of our fellows surprised our class with fresh floral boutonnières from his family farm in celebration of “National Women’s Day.” We then boarded a quick bus ride to Fort McNair military base with a prompt arrival at 0800 (military time) at the National Defense University. We were met by Brigadier General Thomas A. Gorry, Commandant of NDU. Captain James Lepse then provided an interactive discussion regarding Food Security: A Policy Formation Exercise and Discussion. Our pre-reading assignment helped prepare us for the joint sessions held with 2016 agribusiness graduate students at the Eisenhower School. The sessions were a valuable exercise to discuss key issues surrounding food security as it relates to climate change and industry needs. 

Upon on the conclusion of our morning, NDU graciously provided two vans to transport us to the U. S. Capitol Visitor Center where we had lunch in the basement Cafeteria and found just a few minutes to purchase souvenirs in the Capitol Visitor gift shop. With purchases in hand, we then began a quick walk to the Longworth House Building where our first of several speakers, presented “Engaging the Legislative Process” staff briefings whichtook place in the House Agriculture Committee Hearing Room.

Our first briefing was with Jacob Crisp, Deputy General Counsel for the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Jacob’s presentation provided us a glimpse in the privacy issues and anti-terrorism. Next was a briefing with Chris Tudor, Legislative Director for Congressman Tom McClintock (CA-04) regarding drought relief legislative efforts. Following was Garrett Durst, Legislative Assistant for Agriculture and Environment issues with Congressman Garamendi (CA-03) spoke to us about his boss’ perspective regarding water solutions in a document entitled, “Little Sip Big Gulp, A Water Plan for All ofCalifornia.” This provided us an opportunity to exercise ideas toward compromise in ways we may have not previously considered. Kyle Lombardi, Legislative Director for Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA-23) gave his honest approach to the pitfalls and tribulations of the legislative process. Lastly, Kevin Eastman, Legislative and Communications Director for Doug LaMalfa (CA-01) spoke to us about the transition of Sacramento politics to DC policy. Each speaker generously provided an honest and open-ended question and answer session. We felt fortunate to have afforded an opportunity to have shared the afternoon learning from them. 

Our day ended with our National Seminar Finale Dinner at the Kellari Taverna Restaurant. This day was filled with new insights, visions and opportunity to apply our leadership abilities in order to help make a difference as emerging leaders of tomorrow.