11/16/06 Ethanol, waiting and Harkin is in

Every day we hear more talk about renewable fuels like biodiesel and ethanol. Economists at Iowa State University say increasing costs, delays in ethanol plant construction, higher corn prices, all signal a slowdown in the rapid expansion of the ethanol industry. That doesn`t mean, however, that ethanol production won`t remain profitable. Corn prices would have to hit $4.05 a bushel before the ethanol industry becomes unprofitable. Iogen is still waiting to hear from Washington or Ottawa. The Canadian based company wants to build an ethanol production plant either near Idaho Falls or in Canada using straw from wheat and barley fields. Iogen's Morris Hladik says his company is looking for government grants and loan guarantees. HLADIK "As soon as we get a clear signal that funding is in place for these we're ready to go and if the Canadian government beat the US government we'll stay in Canada. If the US government moves more quickly we'll certainly stay in the United States." Nevada Senator Harry Reid, the incoming Majority Leader, says the Senate Agriculture Committee chairman in January will be Tom Harkin. The Iowa Democrat has served on the Ag Committee since 1997 and was chairman between 2001 and 2003. Harkin says he'll place a strong focus on farm and rural economy, renewable energy and conservation. Now with Today's Foodforethought here's Susan Allen. ALLEN "Want to start a lucrative business, become a germ fighter. Entrepreneurs are making millions developing methods to remove germs from the world of the hyper-hygienic. Beyond the vegi washes and handi- wipes emerge a whole host of products that would make even Monk proud. Since we have become an over-indulged, narcissistic society that dwells on our phobias, naturally the media has capitalized by praying on our fears of carcinogens, flues and diseases, so it seems only logical retailers would follow suit. "Germ a phobics" can now refrain from touching&.anything&. with customized straps to protect hands from bus bars, sani- handle wraps for shopping carts, designer door-knob disinfectant, antibacterial gloves and personal air purifiers worn like jewelry . The ultimate for New Yorkers who want to avoid contact with anyone is the "excuse me flag" a devise worn on their waste that insures one cubic yard of free walking space by slapping the offender in the face with an upright yellow flag. Try that one out west and see where that little flag ends up." Northwest Report Bill Scott