Swan Song
For the past two years this space has carried essays on topics ranging from climate hysteria, vengeful bureaucracies and the failings of media, to the wonders of ice cream and tributes to Charles Krauthammer and Chuck Berry. It has been a delight to share with you experiences across the spectrum. In my 40+ years in and around the upstream oil and gas industry, it.. read more →
Reform the Endangered Species Act? Cue the Outrage/Hysteria/Handwringing *yawn*
In the 45 years since the Endangered Species Act was visited on the U.S., it has simultaneously ranked as the most revered environmental initiative and the most reviled. How can such a well-intended statute run afoul of its laudable goals? Easy, the devil as always is in the details. ESA enjoyed near unanimous support when.. read more →
Election Follies – Madness 2018 Edition
With mailboxes full of campaign drivel, the airwaves sopped with bilious ads and an electorate either ambivalent or outraged – Election 2018 is less than one month from ringing in Campaign 2020. Yes, election cycles run one into the next with the monotonous droning barely pausing. While the main event is two years off, this.. read more →
About property rights and “takings” in Colorado
Americans have a centuries-long deep and abiding belief in private property rights. Equally dear and vigorously defended is the opposition to government seizure or expropriation of property for all but the most compelling of public uses. The U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the 3rd, 4th and 5th Amendments to the Constitution specially address.. read more →
Accommodating a Void
PolicySmith Pays Tribute to Charles Krauthammer For most of the past year, viewers of Bret Baier’s Fox News Special Report have had to endure their favorite news analysis program without its titular head, Charles Krauthammer. Viewers who embraced the erudite, thoughtful, sometimes curmudgeonly Krauthammer will grieve the loss. The far smaller cast of poo-pooers of.. read more →
Freedom’s Dramas
Humankind has struggled against and at times vanquished oppressors down through the ages. Tyrannies under the guise of religious conformity, political doctrines and allegiance to charismatic leaders have existed since the beginning of organized society. Humanity has valiantly combatted despots, servitude, hegemony and the evils of one group subjugating another. Wars are fought, societies rise.. read more →
Energy and the Administration: Wins – Yes, Style Points – Nope
How does the PolicySmith address, and civilly discuss, the Trump Administration and its substantial advancement of energy production and advocacy? Hmmm. There are the never-Trumpers who stop reading right here, the Trumpsters who can’t get enough of the in-your-face Presidential style – and – those struggling to square problematic behavior with the very real accomplishments.. read more →
Lobbying/Government Relations for Private Business 101
Part 2 of 2. To read Part 1, click here. Those who engage government on behalf of their employer are in the disaster prevention business. The key to longevity is building credibility brick by brick. Deceive a legislator or staffer and you’re history. Knowing likely outcomes from past experience, being able to recall them and.. read more →
The (Some) Science Guys
From the first Earth Day back in the 70s to the March for Science this year, the melding of enviro-politics and scientism is complete. Scientism – it’s the religious arm of science by exception. It demeans true science by denying the science that does not align with green politics. Organizers of the March for Science.. read more →
Charles Krauthammer 1950-2018
Reading the testimonials, watching the memorials on television throughout the weekend and reflecting on countless insights provided by Dr. Charles Krauthammer greatly deepened our sense of loss in his passing. Stories of his generosity, his outreach to others so afflicted, his drolleries and his spirituality mark this man as one of the notable examples of.. read more →