There's no such thing as a free lunch, the old saying goes.
Thursday, the group "Nebraskans for Jobs and Energy Independence" sponsored a luncheon to explain plans and answer questions about the revised Keystone XL pipeline proposal.
Presenting labor and industry representatives left little doubt as to where they stand.
Consumer Energy Alliance representative Michael Whatley: "The vital role that this pipeline plays by carrying 700,000 barrels of discounted oil into the U.S. refineries and U.S. markets will have on gasoline prices is why we're working as hard as we can to support the project."
Nebraskans for Jobs and Energy Independence spokesperson Barry Rubin: "We really are interested in this pipeline in particular because it's going to create thousands of jobs here in Nebraska and hundreds of thousands nationally, and we're all for energy projects that can bring economic benefits, tax revenue to the state and create jobs here."
At the town of O'Neill's homey Westside Restaurant, chicken fried steak was served up with a strong pro-pipeline message, but not everyone was convinced.
The meeting became heated at moments as those opposed to the revised project had their say.
Rancher Bruce Boettcher: "My objection to this pipeline is the entry point into this state. It is still in sandy, poor soils and it goes across the Ogallala Aquifer.
Even after the meal and debate, some remained undecided.
Luncheon attendee Donna Nickeson: "I probably wasn't much influenced today, because I can see both sides."
