01/27/05 Dorr open again? Both sides prepare

01/27/05 Dorr open again? Both sides prepare

One of the more controversial Bush Administration nominations for a sub Cabinet post could be one that was controversial the first time. Tom Dorr has served as U.S.D.A. Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development since August of 2002 when President Bush made the recess appointment, one done when the U.S. Senate was not in session. However, when the Senate had a chance to confirm Dorr on a permanent basis in November 2003, it blocked the confirmation. Their decision was also fueled by opposition to Dorr's nomination by groups such as Farm Aid and the Campaign for Family Farms. But one has to wonder if the President might be pushing his luck as he has Dorr up for two nominations. In addition to his nomination for reappointment as U.S.D.A. Under Secretary, the President also wants Dorr to serve as a member of the Board of Directors for the Commodity Credit Corporation. U.S.D.A. Secretary Mike Johanns is well aware of R-C.A.L.F. U.S.A.'s recent motion filed before a federal judge asking for a preliminary injunction on U.S.D.A. plans to reopen our border March 7th to Canadian live cattle and some beef products banned since December 2003. So what is the latest on the case from the U.S.D.A. perspective? JOHANNS: Our lawyers are working with their lawyers on a joint scheduling order for this motion. Our objective is to get the motion briefed and argued on a mutually acceptable timetable, so the judge will have the benefit of hearing everyone's point of view. Now with today's "Food Forethought", here's Susan Allen. ALLEN: Today my internet was down and it so completely disrupted my ability to conduct business that it made me reflect on how dependant we all have become on technology. That is why I found an article regarding one psychoanalyst's methods for treating disturbed children enlightening and refreshingly simple. Doctor Sebastino Santostefeno, renowned for his ability to help traumatized children has revolutionized the way they are treated by creating a landscape that draws children out and dramatically reduces treatment time. Throughout an acre, a tiny canal or rill winds like a ribbon, under trees, through the grass, perking the curiosity of the most withdrawn child to follow the soothing sound of running water, ultimately discover a beautiful pond filled with colorful fish. This therapy using nature has resulted in healing children without resorting to an overuse of chemicals. In our stress filled society so dependant on technology, this good doctor might have a lesson for all of us on the healing power of the natural world. I'm Susan Allen and this is Food Forethought.
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