Thank you for your calls to Congress last week and your dedication to making a farm bill that more effectively addresses the needs of our rural communities--here and around the world. Representatives Doggett, Hensarling and Paul all voted for the Fairness in Farm and Food Policy Amendment, and we know that your grassroots calls impacted their votes!

Unfortunately, the Fairness in Farm and Food Policy Amendment failed by a vote of 117 to 309. However, the call for reform was loudly heard during the debate, and we know that it will change the discussion in the Senate in September.

What's next?

1. If your Representative voted for the Fairness in Farm and Food Policy Amendment, please call and thank him. To be even more effective, consider writing a letter to the editor to your local paper, thanking your Rep. and asking Senators Cornyn and Hutchison to vote for broad level reform in September. Email me (sberman@bread.org) for talking points and tips on how to get your letter published.

2. Write your Senators! This is the perfect time to let Senators Hutchison and Cornyn know that you are in favor of farm bill reform. Contact me (sberman@bread.org) for our latest two minute sample letter, and stay informed at www.bread.org.

3. Be ready for Senate action in September! While we are not sure what week the Senate will take up the farm bill, we know we will need you to call your Senators! Please check the Bread for the World and Texas Impact sites for updates or email me at sberman@bread.org, and I will email you directly when calls are most critical.

Thank you again for all you do!

-Suzanne