Questions, Comments & Insults

QCI GAMEDAY POST: Iowa Caucus Edition - Part 2: Breakdown and Predictions

2011-12-30T16:39:00.035-06:00

EDITORS NOTE: Again, the following is a collaboration of thoughts from four anonymous loyal readers of QCI. Ginormous thanks to writing team. The following is the transcript of the back and forth.

CHRIS FOWLER: Welcome back to the QCI Gameday Post: Iowa Caucus Edition. On a very heavy football day here in the Hawkeye State, the candidates are all… how would you say it Beano?

BEANO COOK: All up in here.

FOWLER: That’s right. Today we are going to break down the contenders and of course get the predictions from our great panel. Erin, you’ve been out there on the sidelines, so to speak. Let’s start with someone very much in the news for what may be unfortunate reasons. Michelle Bachmann.

ERIN ANDREWS: Well, this lady came out of the gates and everyone was majorly crushing on her. Sure, she’s tiny and kinda cute – but then you get the sound bites………yikes. Got a whole lot of crazy coming out of her mouth and the crazy is not issues. I’ts things like the John Wayne (Gacey) fiasco - eek. Not a good move. From her lack of timeliness to her verbal blunders, she flamed out faster than Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries marriage.

FOWLER: Ouch.

ANDREWS: That said Bachmann has begun to grow on me. When you go to one of her events, she’s rather likeable in person. Too bad she was late everywhere on her bus tour.

FOWLER: Iowans won’t stand for being late all the time. Kirk, were the gaffes really an issue?

KIRK HERBSTREIT: You know, Chris. Bachmann came out with a great offense. She started out by announcing that she wasn’t announcing at the New Hampshire debate, but she would be announcing soon. Yes, I’m confused, too. Then she launched her Iowa campaign in Waterloo, her birthplace. There were a few hiccups following that announcement, like claiming that John Wayne was from Waterloo. One problem. John Wayne is not from Waterloo; serial killer John Wayne Gacy is from Waterloo. Still, she was the early favorite and had all the momentum.

FOWLER: Oh cmon guys, like you knew where John Wayne was born….

HERBSTREIT: Bachmann won the Ames Straw Poll by edging out Ron Paul and never answering a question directly. Kirk Ferentz loved that strategy. Bachmann’s demise started after she got rid of the great strategist Ed Rollins. Following his departure, Bachmann tanked. She refused to go in to events until staffers had checked the lighting, she was late to almost every event, she refused to hold media availably after events and would drown out tough questions with loud music, she pulled a Cam Newton and stole the homeschoolers email list (allegedly), refused to put on a mustache at Gov. Branstad’s birthday party, and failed to secure what many thought was inevitable, the Steve King endorsement. Then, Bob Vander Plaats asked her drop out and support Santorum. Ouch.

FOWLER: So many great references. So little time. Coach, break down the Bachmann candidacy.

LEE CORSO: Take a look at Michele Bachmann, ya know Kirk I am old and very gender bias.

HERBSTREIT: Uh oh…

CORSO: Yea, Kirk I am bias towards females unfairly over males and I love this lady. What’s this mother raised 13,000 foster children or something? You got to have character, leadership and compassion to do that and this lady's got it. Ya know what else she’s got? Fight, and a lot of it so you can never count her out. She's also got a great conservative foundation and philosophy which is what the GOP needs. But its not what she's got that's holding her back, it's what she doesn't got. And what she doesn't got is very important for this time in history, and that's accomplishments. She has accomplished a lot personally and that's why she’s great. But legislatively she has great stances and positions but Kirk if you can’t move the ball towards the goal line you’re not going to score - and if you don't score, we lose. There is a reason that when you play your 12 year old cousin in NCAA football 12 you dominate him every time. It’s because he throws the hail-mary pass every play except for on 4th down when I’ts a fake punt. So while I really like Bachmann’s female conservative tenacity it’s the failed hail-mary passes and poor play calling that holds me back. But I'll tell you guys another thing if she wins I can’t wait to support her over the current quarterback in the White House.

FOWLER: Interesting coach, now this Kent Sorenson mess that has happened. What do you all have on this?

BEANO: We measured men by their worth and their handlebar mustache in my day. And this man couldn’t grow a man’s mustache if I spotted him half of Franz Ferdinand’s broom pusher.
FOWLER: Not sure if this is a slam or under handed shout out to Governor Branstad. Erin?

ANDREWS: This last play is shocking! My thought is this isn’t going to do impact Ron Paul all that much – he’s already got a huge fan base. But this is devastating to Bachmann. Right Coach?

CORSO: If Kent doesn't look out for Kent, who will? I think Mr. Sorensen said it best when he said, "everyone sells out in Iowa, why shouldn't I.” I think of course he is only referring to those who run in that limited group of for-profit social conservatives. It was just days ago when the Senator was allegedly threatening to "burn in effigy" a like minded and similar type of social conservative activist for endorsing Santorum over Bachmann? Kirk, let me tell you there’s one thing that you can count on with Senator Sorenson and that's Kent is going to always do what is in his best interest.

HERBSTREIT: No comment here, Coach. Senator Sorenson’s actions speak for itself.

FOWLER: This is wishful thinking, but hopefully this is the last we’ll hear about all this. Moving on to another contender. Newt Gingrich. Coach, why don’t you start us out here.

CORSO: Chris, I love this guy. He throws hay makers and connects. Newt Gingrich has the intellectual horsepower that the GOP is craving for. George W and the straight talk express didn't have people jumping out of their seats with their rhetorical historical perspective and pure simple IQ level. I tell ya, I haven't seen a guy with this much communication skill since the Ole' Gipper, or a guy with this much genius since the Stein of Ein. When he speaks all listen because he can articulate the conservative point of view so well a liberal journalist professor from Iowa City would even be speechless. I'm telling you this guys Heisman material. Like a rocket arm, and pin point accuracy. But this mad scientist is sometimes just that, mad. And I don't mean pissed off, dammit no swearing I almost forgot. No guys, is this guy JaMarcus Russell/Ryan Leaf, or Peyton Manning/Dan Marino. This genius is like many others, they are very disorganized and have difficulty sorting out the great ideas from the bad. We have a real wild card here Kirk. I'd love to run with the good, but worried we might want to run away from the bad. Sometimes you got to take a chance on the franchise Savior. Will the GOP?

HERBSTREIT: Oh c’mon, Coach. Newt’s reminded me a lot of John McCain in 2008. The crafty veteran who may be seen as the candidate whose turn it is. Newt is a great ideas man, but his lack of discipline and lackluster organization will haunt him.

CORSO: Not so fast my…

HERBSTREIT: Let’s be real here, Coach. Newt got off to an awful start. He criticized Rep. Paul Ryan’s plan to reduce the budget on “Meet the Press,” was called an embarrassment to the party in Dubuque (it was caught on camera), got glittered, had his Iowa staff walk out on him (only to return to him once he became the front runner), and was called out for racking up big debt at Tiffany’s and on private jets.

CORSO: Kirk, THE Ohio State University football program spent 20 times more on tattoos.

HERBSTREIT: His lack of organization will hurt him, Coach. In an election when the two other frontrunners, Paul and Romney, have been organizing for 5+ years, Gingrich can’t afford to be flying to Virginia to gather signatures to get on the ballot. His lack of organization and money showed when Perry, Paul and Romney began hammering him on the airwaves after he became the frontrunner. A tele-town hall will not put the attacks to rest. You must fight fire with fire.

FOWLER: I may have to separate you two. Erin, are these two making sense?

ANDREWS: When I listen to this guy, I think that I can really get behind him. He’s got solutions, not just ideas and platitudes. Buuuut then I walk away and think “ugh, baggage…” I still can’t get past the comments Newt made earlier this year to “explain” his poor personal choices years ago.

FOWLER: The baggage comes out. But that’s not all, is it?

ANDREWS: Chris, it’s kind of a schizophrenic campaign. He’s organized… his staff quits… he’s MIA in Iowa… he’s back in Iowa… his former staff comes back. I’m confused. I guess I’m still irritated that he skipped on the Iowa Straw Poll and that this campaign hasn’t put much boots on ground effort here.

FOWLER: Good ole Iowan grudges. Beano, do I dare ask your thoughts on Newt?

BEANO: Back when I was a sprout, we didn’t get divorced, let alone 3 times… we sucked it up and ate terrible food from an unhappy soul dead wife. I just don’t see how anyone would elect Wade Phillips, he’s an ok defensive coordinator, but he just isn’t a good head coach.

FOWLER: Why is Beano here again? Let’s keep up with this pace everyone. A name that will surely light up the hit counts… Ron Paul. Let’s start with you, Erin.

ANDREWS: This guy has a cult following. But the cult is ginormous. And organized. His events are hugely attended, and the people who show up aren’t your typical Republican event goers. The thing I can’t get past is every time RP talks, it sounds like he’s just making up as he goes along – but people are taking it and nodding their heads. Just proves if you say anything with enough conviction, people believe it’s a fact.

CORSO: Have you seen the good Doctors TV ads!? They're great!!! And guys, Ron Paul has been running a classic Iowa campaign, and shocker, I know -- it works!

HERBSTREIT: Exactly right, Coach! Paul’s organization is top notch and is able to mobilize on its own. Much like Romney, the people who were with him in 2008 are still with him. But, unlike Romney, Paul continues to build new support and now has a higher floor than the other caucus candidates. Less than 20% in the caucus seems very unlikely for the Texas Congressman. Paul recently had over 1,000 people at an Ames event. A fluke you say? He had 600 in Bettendorf. Paul’s message is resonating in Iowa and the stars could be aligning for him to win on Jan. 3rd.

ANDREWS: I don’t know, boys. To me, he doesn’t seem to need much of a formal organization – his followers were out at shopping malls on Christmas Eve telling people to go to the caucus for Paul. It seems as though the Paul campaign is very grassroots – his folks are doing these things on their own (as far as I know). Now, they really need to work on learning the law about where campaign signs can and can’t be placed (hello? Can’t put them in right of ways or on poles) Oh wait, they don’t believe in regulations…never mind.

FOWLER: Lots of questions on what is going on with this Ron Paul organization. I, myself, have been impressed. I guess this is why we play the game. Kirk, let’s stay in the state of Texas so to speak. Rick Perry.

HERBSTREIT: Rick Perry was thought to be the conservative’s savior. He turned out to be a flawed candidate who failed to demonstrate he was intelligent enough to be president. His “oops” moment mortally damaged his campaign. He seemed to make several good hires in Iowa, but the campaign never got going.

CORSO: Kirk, he has raised a lot of cash. Put together a great organization. Has run some good ads, some bad. Came in hot, looking for that spark again. He is possibly the most personable candidate running but doesn't have the rhetorical prowess that the GOP is looking for this cycle.

HERBSTREIT: But Coach, no one seems to know if his weak Iowa organization is because of the flawed candidate or because a lack of staffer motivation. I’m guessing it is more to do with the candidate. I have yet to meet someone, who isn’t paid by Perry, that is supporting Perry. I predict single digits on Caucus night.

FOWLER: I don’t know guys, I think he has a great team and has been hitting that State hard here in the last quarter. Is that what you’re seeing on the sidelines, Erin?

ANDREWS: I have received more pro-Perry mail than any other candidate; I guess I fit in their target universe. His organization has really stepped it up in the last month or so, doing a bus tour and is ring is huge. I wonder if that’s from a Super Bowl? And, how can you not like a guy who has a Van Halen song as his ring tone?

BEANO: I’ve had to get my spectacle re-adjusted to read all of his mail he’s sent out this month. Tough for someone who worships the golden dome to get behind a TEXAN.

FOWLER: All Notre Dame, all the time Beano. Two more candidates left to break down. How about one who’s topping the charts late. Mitt Romney, Coach. Does he have enough comMITTs to win a championship?

CORSO: Take a look at this guy, he's beautiful. I think they made him in a plastic mold. Do they grey his hair one strand at a time just so it’s perfect? I don't know. But Mitt is Mitt. Disciplined, well spoken, strategic, consistent. Everybody knows it, and about 20-25 percent like it. Which may explain why he maintains support at 20-25 percent. Weeks ago they said that as though it was negative. Lately they're talking about how great his steady support is. The rest are looking for a Mitternative but have not been able to agree on which one. And he who hesitates is lost. If Mitt wins Iowa, this nomination is pretty well over. And we could do worse, no doubt.

ANDREWS: Coach, it’s essentially the same players as four years ago but this time instead of the major organization you have a “once and a while” campaign strategy. He’s in Iowa for a day, and then a month later he’s back. I get it, but that doesn’t mean I like it.

HERBSTREIT: Erin, it’s not just “once and a while”. His Iowa team is small and mighty. The team started out in an apartment attic tucked away off of Ingersoll. Their early job was to make sure they didn’t have any local-level defectors from 2008. From what I can see, they didn’t lose a great deal of local support. This will be invaluable on caucus night. Their people believe in Mitt, have stood by him for years, and have heard all the attacks. I suspect they will be ready for the attacks on caucus night and stand up for their candidate at their local precincts.

FOWLER: Somewhat diverse reaction to Mitt Romney here. I know G$ had been harping a lot on 99 county chairs lately. He may have a point. Remember, the Romney folks had a pretty solid organization 4 years ago. So Kirk, I think, is on to something. Speaking of organizations and really doing it the Iowa way. Rick Santorum.

BEANO: Santorum has reminded me of an old Florida State squad. He’s putting everyone on their schedule, all 99 counties. They’re beating who they have to. Running up scores… like a Bowden. Bobby sure does have some nice sweater vests.

CORSO: Beano, Slick Rick has really worked hard in Iowa. And for that he will be rewarded by exceeding his expectations. By how much is the question since those expectations were so low to begin with. Guys, this Santorum fella has had very consistent debate performances when given the chance to speak. He has great, thoughtful policy positions which have kept him in consideration by many. It is really hard to pick Rick apart on anything. He is a solid candidate and would make a very stiff match up for the President.

ANDREWS: Santorum has put in the most effort and time getting to all 99 counties, getting some key (and not so key) endorsements, but he can’t seem to gain any traction. All I can guess is there is something that people just can’t get their arms around. Perhaps it IS the fact that he’s been to all 99 counties and just doesn’t have the personality that people are looking for.

HERBSTREIT: I don’t know, Erin… And I never thought Santorum stood a chance in this Presidential race. Now, I think he could be the Huckabee of 2011/2012. Conservatives trust him and his positions have not changed. He is a nice, personable guy who connects well in retail politics.

FOWLER: He has been after it, hasn’t he Kirk?

HERBSTREIT: Chris, all I know is that Nick Ryan, Jill Latham and Cody Brown have done a great job with former Sen. Santorum. They bought in early to the Branstad/Grassley model, visiting all of Iowa’s 99 counties. And Santorum did the visits the right way, not like Bachmann who arrives to the stops on her tour 50 minutes late and only stays for 10 minutes. Santorum put in the time and it will yield dividends. He will out-perform polling on caucus night. Book it.

FOWLER: I can see the mascot box being brought to the stage. It is time. Predictions. It’s been a long, long ride. Let’s have ‘em. Beano, how is it going to go on Tuesday night?

BEANO: My top three are Romney first, Paul second and the Newt in third. Watch out for Rick Perry, he’s Texan, you know… and the real question that has been missing this entire cycle. WHERE THE HELL IS ALAN KEYES!

FOWLER: Alan Keyes… and the ghosts of Caucuses Past have arrived. Erin, your top 3?

ANDREWS: Chris… maybe I’m way off, but I have Paul first, Newt second and Mitt third… That said, keep a corner in your eye open for Santorum. He is really doing the Iowa caucuses the way they should be done.

FOWLER: Kirk, you told me you’ve been tossing and turning on this one.

HERBSTREIT: Sure have Chris. Since, I’m calling the Caucus tonight with Musburger, I shouldn’t make predictions, but I’ll make an exception. Romney first, Paul second and Santorum in third. When I say watch out for Santorum, I mean watch out for Santorum. If Newt doesn’t stop the bleeding fast, I believe Santorum can sneak into the 3rd spot. Visiting all 99 counties will build you an incredible organization. Santorum did it the right way and I think he’ll be rewarded. I think Newt will slip to #4. I believe Perry and Bachmann will drop out before NH.

FOWLER: So Kirk, you have bought into Santormentum.

HERBSTREIT: I do, Chris. Something is happening.

FOWLER: Before we finish up, Kirk, you had more to add.

HERBSTREIT: Yes. Here’s three headlines you will see Wednesday morning “Perry forgets the 3rd reason he lost in concession speech. Oops.”

FOWLER: Ouch. The second?

HERBSTREIT: “Man smoking outside of caucus mistaken for Mark Block, turns out to be Grant Young.”

FOWLER: A little shout out to the editor. Nice work.

HERBSTREIT: Absolutely! Now, how much I think this Santormentum is real… the third headline on Wednesday morning will be “Santorum after surprise top 3 finish: Google me now, bitches!”

FOWLER: Can he say that on air? I guess we can expect an apology from Kirk with a gun pointed to his head.

HERBSTREIT: *gulp*

FOWLER: Alright… now, time for Lee to finish up with a tradition like no other. What do you have for a prediction there coach?

CORSO: This is the most difficult race to pick here on gameday, probably ever. And I can tell you one thing now that is for certain. I look forward to supporting whom ever the nominee is with great enthusiasm because four more years of Obama we cannot have.

HERBSTRIET: AMEN COACH!

CORSO: Kirk! I have contrarian thinking on the good Doctors chances. High turnout is not what Paul wants but I think that's what he gets. Paul is polling slightly higher than he will finish but will come in very close third. He has very dedicated supporters and it's certainly not inconceivable that he could win. So I have Ron Paul in third place.

HERBSTREIT: C’mon Coach, third? You have no faith in the sweater vest?

CORSO: Two guys who could surprise. And might. I'm telling you this thing is up for grabs and while Perry has been steadily climbing back, Santorum is roaring ahead. Either one of these guys could break into the top three but no way both can. But in second, Romney could easily win with 25 percent because of the fractured vote. And NOT SO FAST MY FRIENDS! With a very high turnout and something special happening between now and January 3, and by the narrowest of margins…. I didn't even need to be enlarged, fits right on there at actual size.

(CORSO slaps desk and puts on head)

CORSO: Efff it. NEEEEEEWT! YEAH!!!!!

HERBSTREIT: You know Chris, he’s right. That thing is actual size.

BEANO: Wade Phillips is a fine coordinator. But no head coach.

ANDREWS: That thing is ginormous.
FOWLER: There you have it friends. Our panel has made its picks. Now it’s up to you. See you Tuesday Night!

ANDREWS: Good Lord that thing is huge.

BEANO: That’s what she said.

QCI GAMEDAY PREVIEW: Iowa Caucus Edition - Part 1

2011-12-29T20:38:00.010-06:00

EDITORS NOTE: The following is a collaboration of thoughts from three anonymous loyal readers of QCI. Ginormous thanks to writing team. The following is the transcript of the back and forth.

CHRIS FOWLER: Just like we always do this time of year… I’m Chris Fowler and welcome to QCI’s Gameday: Iowa Caucus Edition. We have lots to cover here. So much that I believe we’ll make this a two part post. Tonight, we’ll cover some odds and ends. Tomorrow morning we’ll get to our predictions and of course, the mascot head. But before we get to all of that, with us as always, Kirk Herbstreit and Lee Corso.

KIRK HERBSTREIT: Lots and lots of energy going on, Chris. A lot at stake, coach! Are you ready?

LEE CORSO: Kirk! Let’s get this going!

FOWLER: Also with us is long time analyst Beano Cook.

BEANO COOK: Hello Chris and fellers. Notre Dame.

FOWLER: And to help provide some insight from the sidelines, Ms. Erin Andrews. Welcome aboard Erin.

ERIN ANDREWS: Great to be here Chris. My first time on the QCI Gameday. A little nervous.

BEANO: Humina, humina, humina.

FOWLER: Let’s dive in here. In what is becoming one of THE most interesting back and for Iowa Caucus seasons ever, there’ve been game changes and interceptions. First off, there are some people who didn’t make it to the dance. I’m going to just throw out names at all of you. Tim Pawlenty.

HERBSTREIT: His TV ads looked like “Transformers” previews. His speeches were about exciting as a George Eichhorn campaign rally. What do you got Coach?

CORSO: A little harsh, Kirk. Would still have a chance if he had played for the long haul.

FOWLER: Erin, your take from the sidelines?

ANDREWS: He had a huge organization leading up to the Straw Poll, it’s just too bad that T-Paw wasn’t more dynamic as a candidate. I think the problem wasn’t that he spent too much money or had too big of an organization, he just couldn’t catch on no matter what he did.

FOWLER: Another missing person. The last drop out of the race…. Herman Cain.

CORSO: Captured a movement and excited the GOP, Chris. Was one of the best speakers in the race. Inexperience showed and was his ultimate demise.

ANDREWS: Well, he’s still on the ballot, sooooooo is Cain really a dropout? Kidding. At any rate, Cain seemed to be picking up support and then all of his personal issues came out.

HERBSTREIT: Only thing that comes to mind is, The Serial Fondler. Am I right Beano?

BEANO: One butt grab is an aberration, two is a trend and 2 decades worth is Herman Cain.

FOWLER: He sure did get people excited. But as well put by both Kirk and Beano, the personal issues were becoming a prevent defense. Prevents you from winning. Is it worth even talking about Thad McCotter?

ANDREWS: Who? Just kidding, Chris. McCotter’s biggest problem was not getting any love from the national media. And his second biggest problem was his uncommon name – it was easy to forget. He could have had a niche but he was only around for a month or two and just couldn’t catch on. Beano?

BEANO: Awe yes, Thad McCotter. That’s the quarterbacks coach for Notre Dame, right?

CORSO: No way Beano! Ran horrible campaign, and paid too much for it.

HERBSTREIT: I agree Coach. His campaign was quicker than Oregon’s offense and fizzled faster than Jake Christensen’s popularity in Iowa City.

FOWLER: Interesting bits here. Let’s move on to Iowa Haters. What about former Louisiana Governor Buddy Roehmer?

HERBSTREIT: Who?

CORSO: Who?

BEANO: Kicker for Bowling Green in the 50s who didn’t have the grades for Notre Dame or Ann Arbor.

ANDREWS: You don’t make any effort in Iowa; I’m not going to make any effort talking about you.

FOWLER: And proverbial Iowa Hater, Jon Huntsman?

HERBSTREIT: Chris, this guy makes less sense than Lou Holtz. Refusing to campaign in Iowa because of your ethanol subsidy position is weak. Even Giuliani says your Iowa strategy sucks. We were just taking about this off air, Coach.

CORSO: Jon Huntsman has played the roll of McCain circa '99-'00 very well… minus anyone campaigning against him. Oh and, except for the primary success. Oh and, he won't be the next nominee either.

ANDREWS: Again, Chris. You don’t make any effort in Iowa; I’m not going to make any effort talking about you.

FOWLER: All Iowa, all the time. Love it. Lots and lots more to come. Tomorrow our QCI Gameday Team will break down every campaign and ole Coach will put on the mascot head. Make sure you follow G$ on Twitter for updates on the post and join us on the Book of Faces as well, if you’re into that type of thing. See you then!

It's baaaaaack....

2011-12-16T15:10:00.003-06:00

It’s back… the now infamous “Gameday Post” courtesy of me and my ghost writers. Will post it on Thursday, December 26… maybe with a launch party or something….

So hang tight on the details…

For the uninitiated… here’s Gameday Posts from the past….

2008 Primary Gameday Preview – LINK (the Original)

2008 General Election Gameday Preview – LINK

2010 Statewide Primary Gameday Preview – LINK

2010 Congressional and Governor Primary Preview – LINK

More details to come… until then, you can follow some really horrible tweets HERE.

Stay thirsty my friends.

99 chairs and no org has em...

2011-12-09T12:46:00.001-06:00

You blasted kids!

2011-04-21T09:37:00.005-05:00

"Oh look! He posted something!"

Yeah, yeah, yeah, I hear ya.

So... these internets are getting hotter than Elizabeth Shue on any day that ends in Y with this bit about Professor F-Bomb over at the University of Iowa. Our homey jomey from Wyoming ERR Ankeny, C-Raig Robinson at the TIR had a good bit on it. That's a hell of a lot of comments there, sir.

Anyways... I went to the U of I and was active in CRs there as well... so anytime I see that the ole UICRs making the news, my ears perk up. Now, back in the day... we weren't exactly as loud as thems kids are today. Hell, we were more worried about working for campaigns and finishing our meetings on time so we could hit the Airliner for "Flip Night"... (a pitcher and cup, aye there Caleb?)...

So... turns out the UICRs have this "Conservative Coming Out Week" thinger. And they got to send a blast email approved to go campus wide to tells thems kids all about it. Wow, times sure have changed, right? Then blah blah blah... the blast goes out and blah blah blah... some uberlefty professor starts doing her best Cee Lo Green impersonation via email.

The blogs pick the story up and then Fox News does a thinger. Pretty cool stuff for a student organization stunt that got someone a little more cranky when they screw up their organic moca cafe way too expensive coffee at Starbucks. Even I, of all people, took a minute to put some words together to form sentences over this. Yeah, I know, weird, right?

Then these comment sections start blowing up on the blogs, news sites... ect. And, in the political age we live in now... the Ben Franklin/John Hancock wannabes and crunchy elderly former hippy burn outs begin an epic debate over the Constitution... rights... blah blah blah blah...

Namely, Freedom of Speech.

Now, I'm no constitutional scholar, never claim to be, never went to law school or have any interest doing so otherwise. What can I say, I likes books with pictures.

But when peeps start turning into Legal Beagles, I turn to my lawyer and law school pals. I figure hey, they paid enough cabbage to learn it up... so I don't have to. Just like when they ask for my advice on being awesome. Kinda works out that way. It's the circle of life, Simba.

Then, when their super duper law school Someone v. Someone Supreme Court case speak gets my head spinning to the point where I think they're speaking Portuguese... That's when I turn to rants given by Dennis Miller... Because for some reason, he puts things in ways that I can understand them.

So check out this video... my favorite is his explanation of the first two amendments... right around the 52 second mark. Enjoy and stay thirsty...

QCI Twitter Event: Party Like It's 1999

2011-04-12T15:49:00.003-05:00

Hey. How’s it going? Yeah, yeah, yeah… long time, no talk. I hear ya. Anyways… incase you missed it, and judging by the tweets, you have. Turns out that Chris Cizzilla, AKA the Fix from the Washington Post is bringing his monthly “Politics and Pints” to the Hawkeye State on August 10th. These monthly events are usually held at one of our favorite DC hangouts, Capitol Lounge. Basically it’s a trivia night with beers and politicos… so you can see why we’re excited about this and that this event totally has our attention. Oh and by the way… QCI plans on fielding a team at this event… so EAT THAT Albrecht. So what’s up with this post? Well, we kind of got inspired by this event and idea… and decided to totally rip it off on the interwebs… (yes, I know, stay classy G$)…. Well, kind of… Anyways, last night my crack team over here at QCI HQ was digging through the G$ archives and found some files from the 1999-2000 Caucus season. Stuff like mail pieces… endorsement releases… some good old school stuff. This all kind of segwayed into another conversation we were having last night as well. It was the thought of the brain trust at the HQ that we are on the verge of everything really heating up… kind of like it was 12 years ago. Staffers are getting hired… activists are getting personal calls… and all over the Des Moines metro, office space is looking to get leased. Also, we’ve have been meaning to write the MUST IOWA TWITTER FOLLOWS (sigh… I know, yet another list). Iowa has a great political Twitterverse… So in a weird, organic, fun way…. We figured we could make it happen… just by having it happen, tonight. So, tonight… we thought we’d do a little tweetchat about the stuff we found moderated by yours truly. Think of tonight’s tweetchat as a… “Where Are They Now” meets political war story time at some table over at Wellman’s… make sense? Good. So here’s all the deets on tonight’s QCI Tweetchat…. WHAT: QCI Tweetchat – Let’s Party Like It’s 1999 WHERE: Twitter on the internets. Hashtag yer tweets with #partylikeits99. Or you can follow my feed on the right side WHEN: Tonight – 6ish to 7ish pm Iowa Time (that’s Central Time for you folks reading in Story City) WHO: Loyal readers, special guests and everyone in between. So see you all in a but… and as always… stay thirsty my friends.

People still read this?

2011-02-27T14:06:00.003-06:00

So... how's everyone? Cool. Good to hear.

Um hey, I know. Longtime, no talk.

Working on a few things. I hope you all will like 'em. Like, liking 'em just as much as this rocking tune by a couple of fellas from Akron, OH.

Crank it up, real real loud. And stay tuned.

That Girl Named: Iowa Hawkeye Football

2010-12-29T12:21:00.008-06:00

From time to time, I have explained Iowa Hawkeye Football as a relationship. Sure, no relationship is perfect. It takes some work. There are ups and downs. We’ve sure had some great times over the past few years… Like those nice little New Years Day dates... unexpected surprises like the catch in the Capital One bowl... The last two Michigan State games... The Ricky Stanzi Orange Bowl post game speech... Bowl wins... Magical bliss... good times.

*hearts*

Hawkeye Football usually goes about the same as that on again/off again girlfriend you have. It starts in the Winter... after the bowl game... we miss her. Sure... from now until the next Fall... we may flirt or even go out with the NFL Playoffs, or the upcoming Major League Baseball season... hell, we might even hook up with the Olympics to keep us occupied. But these gals are no Hawkeye Football... no way, no how.

The Spring Game comes along... You haven't seen her in a while. And booyah! Damn she looks good. REAL good. She's lost some weight. She's doing this new thing with her hair. And that black and gold outfit she's rockin'? Those one pair of jeans that make you go nuts. (humina humina humina)

But you keep it cool. You'll say hello... maybe grab a drink, but that's it. There's no need to get too excited, yet. You're not gonna call or anything... wouldn't want to sound desperate... she'll be back, right? There’s emptiness for most of the Summer. It's a long wait... Time makes the heart grow fonder so to speak.

The Big Ten previews start coming out late summer. Lindy's, Sporting News and Anthlon... all talking about how she is lookin' FINE. You go to the State Fair and pick up your Hawkeye Football Schedule Poster... you just know she's going to be back in your life. And things are going to be great again. Bam! Two weeks until that first game? You're back together... and it's better than the last year. You're heart goes pitter patter. Everything seems to be a little nicer... everything seems to be a little brighter. Iowa Hawkeye Football is your girl... and life is good.

During this preseason? You stopped at the jewelers in Pasedena. You were looking for a ring. A big ring. For some reason, you just felt that this was it. This was the time we were gonna settle down and be immortal for ever... every thing great and smelling rosy...

But this 2010 Iowa Hawkeye Football girl was a little more complicated than the past years. Expectations... dude, you were shopping for a damn ring! Yeah... this was as serious as a dry keg two hours before kick off at Kinnick. Yeah, that serious. For some reason, in the back of your head... you had high expectations... but we've all been here before... you just knew this year was going to be different… But something didn't smell right. Especially when her father got involved.

He's always has been suspect of us. Her father started putting these tailgating restrictions. All of those cops on Melrose. The parking lots at Kinnick weren't making you feel like you lived in the Hawkeye State, but a Police State. We should have known from the beginning that indeed, something was up... and it wasn't gonna end well.

Enter our girl... the 2010 Iowa Hawkeyes.

The season started off great. No problems. Good two dates in Iowa City. All is well. Great times. Then we took a trip with her to Tucson, Arizona...which seemed exotic for us. Things could get a little freaky, right? Like freaky nice. Then there was the whole time change thing and we were both cranky. Bad weekend. We probably said a few things to each other... at a bad time. But hey, that was just the time change and stuff. No problem, we can work this out.

The next week? Good times were had again. She wore throwbacks... because we're into that. Yeah man. It was nice. Then beating JoePa again?! *hearts* A win like that calls for a blissful night in the hot tub if you catch my drift. Beating Michigan? In Ann Arbor? Yeah... nothing could go wrong between us and our girl now, Hawkeye Football. Damn, she's the best girl, ever.

But... Here's where it gets a little rocky... or Bucky if you will. Freaking Wisconsin.

Yeah, she let them have the Bull. You know.... that trophy with the Bull on it. Yes... that hurt... but could you really be hurt about a trophy that was just made a few years ago? Nah. We'll forgive her. Turns out, Bucky was good this year... no Bull trophy could come between us... right? No problem. It's OK. We can forget about this one... Sure... we both said a few things we shouldn't have said. But we made up. Next weekend will be better, she promises.

Ole Sparty came to Iowa City. Yeah... she showed him the door. She's pretty cute when she gets angry and puts a beat down on the conference frontrunner... of the time. It's like when she crinkles her nose when's she's mad. So cute. That's why we love her. She was mad and everything was alright. Which made her mad in nice ways later if you know what I'm sayin’… Hey yo!

Then we took a little trip to Indiana. No problems, right?

Yeah, we stayed in Indianapolis. And yeah... OK, so we may have spent too much time at the Broad Ripple bars the night before. We were pretty cloudy in the morning. Missed the bus... but caught a cab to Bloomington just in time. We got on each others nerves, but that’s how it goes. We won. Things would get better if we just took a little get away to Chicago for the weekend, right? Yeah, that's the ticket. A nice little weekend in the Windy City. We'll go out, maybe take her shopping on Michigan Ave... maybe take in a Second City Show... you know... just for fun. A nice little leisurely trip to Chicago....

Sigh… Yeah, not good. This weekend in Chicago was supposed to the weekend where we make up... maybe we get on a bended knee. We'll get closer to Roses... LA... Become one...

Wrong.

She got all pissy about leaving the seat up in the hotel... lots of yelling... lectures on how I... of all people, I needed to grow up. How'd that go? Yeah... quiet trip back to Iowa from the Windy City. But... all is fair... Brutus was coming to town. How could we not get excited for a date like that, right? Yeah... maybe after a win like that we could make the ask.... forever. Well... that wasn't a good weekend for our girl, either.

We had a great time... it was intense... all of the stuff that keeps you interested in this girl... then... we must have said something wrong. With a 2:30 start... I'll admit, we probably had too much to drink before kick off... but, that never harmed our relationship before, right? Then... Awe dammit... pissed away... in more ways than one. Call us Popeye... because we just got owned by Brutus for our girl again.

Double sigh...

But one last date to make it all better, right? One more and we'll have our selves a nice little New Years getaway where it’s warm and nice.

We love Floyd of Rosedale. He's child to us if you will... One more date up North. Nothing wrong could happen... could it? On to the Twin Cities and at this new joint. They don't serve beer. So... we're gonna need a little help to get her in the mood. We're gonna be outside... and from past experiences all year... we know we're in trouble with our girl. We would fight, make up and do it all again. Just like every single game of the season in the past. We prepared for this. But in the Twin Cities, well... we had a fight. Not just a lovers spat... put the kind of fight that doesn't end well with you're on again/off again girlfriend that is Hawkeye Football. The kind of fight where things are said and she kicks you square in the nuts.

Yeah, not awesome.

Was it something we said? Listen, I know Brutus the Buckeye is a handsome fellow... but him? Goldie? Goldie the freaking Golden Gopher? You had to let him win?! Really? Did that make you feel better? You let them have the pig?!! The Pig?!! Has it gotten that bad between us?! I know it was cold up there and all of that stuff... and yes, we should have bought you that designer winter coat at the Mall of America on our night out... Yeah yeah yeah... I know, it was freezing... but... you had to let them have the pig? You started to face facts... you knew this break up might be... final.

We were officially fighting after that chilly day in Minne-no-place.

That's when we got a little defensive. How could you?! After all the things, the tailgate restrictions by your father... all of our ups and downs... and now you're going to expect us to forgive and forget... and go to some Phoenix suburb for a bowl game?!! This is how this relationship ends?

This fight carried on. Off field problems. Players in trouble. Heroes disgraced... It was like she was playing a sick game of making us hurt. Rumors… charges… The embarrassment… This might be the final straw. It could be over…

Fast forward to this past week. You saw her texts... Missed calls… Voice mails…

Hit ignore... and delete.

Don’t pick up, dude... do not pick up that phone.

No need to put yourself through this again. All you get is hurt. And we all might have had enough pain…

But the funny thing about this girl named Iowa Hawkeye Football… she was your first and only… and it usually… doesn’t take much to get you back. That’s why you didn’t want to pick up that phone…

All that was waiting was more hurt on the other side of the phone...

Then… It happened. Just one spark. All it takes is one spark, and this one was some Ozark hillybilly Mizzou fan’s Facebook status talking smack about our girl…

No one, I mean no one talks about our girl like that. No one.

On Iowa! Go Hawks! AND GAME ON!

You pick up the phone… you dial and don’t even let her get a word in, “Babe, it’s me again. Let's work this out. Put on that black and gold thing you wear that drives me nuts and I’ll be there in a minute to pick you up. We’re going to Tempe.”

All of those heartbreaking losses… forgotten. Off field garbage? Forgotten. Iowa Hawkeye Football is our girl. And are we not going let some toothless low rent Big 12 school mess with our girl, right? Hell no.

We lock arms and head to Arizona. We're together again. *birds chriping*

So we get there and all the chatter for the game builds up. The Hawks have no chance. Missouri is favored. Too many distractions… this isn’t going to end well. Then you remember why we love her. This stuff just makes her pissed… and remember, she gets really really cute when she gets pissed. "Bring it... Mizzzzzourahhhh," she says in that hot chick voice. *hearts*

It’s Game Time at the Insight Bowl. We're baaaaaaack! Man did she look good last night. The Hawkeyes came out on all cylinders. It was awesome! Where was this Big 12 North super power we were sold on? Mizzou ain’t got nothin’ our girl. Then… Hyde’s interception for 6? Are you serious?!! Oh yeah, man. Oh… yeah.

Then, being the drama queen she always is… the review of that pass? It was of course incomplete… but not you and us, Iowa Football… you complete us. And that’s why the hurting has started to begin…

The wait…

We have to wait until next Fall to see you again. I can hear Hawks fans say it, “But, but, but wait?! We just got back together?! You have to go?!” She does, man… She does…

Iowa Football will be back next year… and she’ll look as fine as she did last night.

So start the countdown fellas… I know that I, like many of you Hawkeye fans, are already counting the days until we’ll see our sweet sweet love again… Iowa Hawkeye Football.

CHIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEFS!!!!!!

2010-12-26T21:05:00.003-06:00

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT!!!!

*tears of joy*

I always believe....

Epic Christmas

2010-12-24T10:31:00.005-06:00

Christmas is frigging awesome. Seriously, it's the season that makes me come to grips with the fact that... Though I am 33 years old... I'm basically a big kid. Ain't it cool how this time of year does that to you? Yeah, I thought so.

Anyways... since I'm not gonna be standing in line at a store when Mass starts tonight (Grant speak for "I actually have all my shopping done") I figured... I'd do a random Christmas thoughts post as my little stocking stuffer to all of you loyal readers out there. We'll call this post of random... Epic Christmas...

CHRISTMAS TUNES - How awesome are Christmas tunes? I mean there are some terrible ones (insert "Christmas in Iowa" song here)... It's just straight up freaking awful. When I hear this song it makes me want to tell my buddy of mine to meet me in the backyard and whip 3 dozen snowballs at my junk. Yeah. Not a fan. But... nothing like when you hear someone belt out a good one. I'm not much for the Christmas Radio Station bit... just on the mere fact that you have to listen to the crap songs. What's my Holiday Mix Tape? Anything with Frank Sinatra, Charlie Brown Christmas, Boston Pops (basically anything with horns) and maybe Cheech and Chong. Oh and anything done by the Roots. Oh and that Beach Boys one. And yeah, I'm total sucker for the Churchy songs. You know... the ones sang right by the hot chick in your confirmation class... the ones that brings the tears in the pews. Crazy good. How freaking awesome are those? Freaking awesome. I mean these guys who were writing these songs like a hundred years ago had to be like, "Dudes, some day... peeps are gonna be bawling by the end of this one." I shared that idea with my sister, she said, "They probably were brought to tears composing them." Good point April.
TRADITIONS - No matter if its the ones your ancestors brought over on the boat... Something your family does... or even that Ugly Sweater party... Every one's got em. My favorite? Christmas Eve in Jewell. I grew up on the same block as the church. So here's how it goes down... 5:30 Mass at Good Shepherd... then anyone who's around comes over to my parent's house. Not just like family... but family friends, sometimes the priest... my Dad's buddies... high school pals (and now their kids). They show up after Mass or stop before they head to their church's services, have some cocktails... get fat on all of the epic things my Mom cooked up and just hang out. Which makes for just a great night of laughs and holiday cheer. One year, they thought Midnight Mass would be a decent change. Yeah... still had the party at my folks... but headed to Mass later. Which made the snow drift in front of the parish doors rival most snow drifts on college campuses on a Thursday night. Hey, like I said, we live on the same block... Have road beers and Christmas spirit, will travel.
EPIC FOOD - Dudes... Are. You. Serious! The best evar. I'm not much of a sweets guy... but I can't stop eating Christmas cookies. The best part of having like... 60 aunts... is that they are off the chain in the kitchen. Add to the fact that my family is involved in farming one way or another... yeah, just about any thing you can make with a pork product is served. Big ass Bell's Mill ham... meat trays... pigs in a balnket... And if it didn't come from a pig, they'll wrap it in bacon and drown it in a sauce. Yeah man. No one goes hungry.
SANTA CLAUS - Yes, there is a Santa Claus. No doubt about it. Oh and for you Santa haters out there. Recognize. I know its not a very Christmasy thing to say... but if you say there ain't no Santa... you get what you deserve, nothing.
SPEAKING OF SANTA... and turning into a big kid. So I was outside the mall the other day, you know... smoke break. And a lady with two big crates of candy canes was coming up to the door. She was struggling a little with the large cargo... so I helped load 'em in the mall. I asked, "Hey wait a minute... are these Santa's candy canes?" As my eyes got wide, she grinned back at me saying, "Yep, that's right. These are Santa's candy canes." Then I go, "Dude, that's awesome!" Candy canes were delivered to the big man and I went back to shopping. But I sure had a glow of being important. I, of all people, just got to help out THE Santa Claus. What can I say, I'm just a big kid.
SAYING MERRY CHRISTMAS - Yeah yeah yeah. I hear you. I'm not much for lecturing people that it's Jesus' epic birthday. I say Merry Christmas... You can say Happy Holidays, Happy Festivus, Happy Hanukkah... Happy Saturday... whatever you want. I won't be offended. I don't care. If its this time of year, I say Merry Christmas... Just like I say "Go Chiefs" or just plain "CHIEEEEEEEEFS" to anyone I see on a Sunday.
CHRISTMAS PRESENTS - Shopping... gets a little stressful, sometimes... doesn't it? Is this what he wants? Will she fit in this? Is he into Legos yet or will he choke on 'em? What age is appropriate for Barbie? Don't buy it dude, someone may have gotten it for you... These are the thoughts that come to my head and are asked to better shopping experts than I. Of which I know gets a little annoying at times for them... what am I to do? I'm notta shopping expert. Was asked the other day, "What was the best Christmas gift you ever got?" With out even flinching... An authentic sideline team issue Kansas City Chiefs winter jacket... just like Marty Schottenheimer wore on many of those playoff runs. I think I was like 12 or 13... maye older... when I got it. My Mom says I about hit the ceiling when I opened it... literally. That my friends was a bad ass jacket. It was like before stores had all the authentic stuff. It came directly from Kansas City. Man that was a great jacket. And to answer your question, yes. When no one was around... I'd put it on, wore an old pair of my Dad's glasses and paced around the house... pretending like I was Marty telling Derrick Thomas, "Good job, Derrick. Keep working that guy." Um yeah, I think that's the first time I've ever admitted that.
THE END OF A YEAR - Cool part, I think at least, is that whole reflect on the last year stuff. 2010? I'd say it was decent. Not bad, not bad at all. Big wins in November... The Chiefs win and they're in the playoffs... Decent health... (heavy on the decent)... We can do better too in 2011, don't you think? Of course.

Alright... I gotta start negotiating my way back to God's County. Mass is at 6:30. So I gotta split...

Before I load up my sleigh of presents and head north, I have a brief message to all of you loyal readers, friends, family, haters, stalkers, even Denver Bronco fans... and everyone in between. Back at Good Shepherd up in Jewell, Father Recker would always end his homily with this line that I always kind of digged. He's was longtime drama coach for a big catholic high school somewhere back in the day... and it showed during Mass. Crazy good stuff.

Here's his line and my wish for you all...

"To you and yours. May you have a very Happy, a very Holy... a very Merry Christmas."

QCI's 2012 Iowa Caucus List and Keys

2010-12-14T08:51:00.014-06:00

"G$, you gotta list?"

C'mon son... everyone is doing it...

Man oh man, I love Christmas... and the Christmas party circuit! What a rockin' party over at 621 East 9th, am I right?! Great to see so many old friends, new friends, colleagues, acquaintances... and it was even great seeing the people I don't like!! BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! Just kidding. I roll like Rocky Balboa, I like just about everyone. Even you Monte Shaw.

Anyways, per usual, I've been talking to a lot of people since the big November victories. The subjects? Here they are...

What's next? How long are they keeping you on the pay roll? What are you thinking? Hear from anyone yet?

And of course...

Who do you like in 2012?

On the subject of 2012... lately the buzz I keep hearing on the street and reading in the blogs? That little list of 50 people in an article Tony Beaumont wrote a couple weeks back in the Des Moines Register.

Lists do funny things to people... especially in politics. Judging from the blogs and "on the street" chatter I'm hearing... Here are the 4 reactions I get:

1) Peeps who really don't care and don't have time to.
2) Folks who look like Rudy checking the Notre Dame dress list to see if they "get" to suit up on Saturday... because coach promised.
3) Egos who would like you to kiss their rings because they made the list.
4) The rest? They blow up like that movie producer did on CJ Craig on the West Wing... just because he dropped from #2 to #9 on the list of Hollywood's most important people.

Again, lists do funny things...

Hershel chimed in... then I saw a few others who were mostly pissed for not making the list... and/or all their buddies that got left off. Get over yourselves people.... and act like you been here before.

This prompted Tim Bowmount to write another list... Oh, and don't worry. Someone will get pissed again... or want to advocate for someone and something... and the DMR's political guy, Biff Toemont will have to write another list. (sigh...)

My take on all these lists? Yep. Everyone single one should be on there. All accomplished. All influential no matter how great or worthless you personally believe these people are. I'm as serious as a dry keg 2 hours until kick off when I said that. Are there some folks missing? Yes of course... there's always someone who didn't make Selection Sunday. It's OK... there's always the NIT... but enough of the really lame college basketball references...

You want the list? I'll give you the list... well, at least not the Excel Sheet. No way Homey Jomey from Wyoming. You all aren't that cool enough, sorry. And for some of you reading... that chick still thinks you're a creeper and you can't have her cell phone number. Sorry bro.

You're just gonna have to look 'em all up... and since you clearly have this computer thing called "the internets"... you have access to a little website called "Google." Cmon now, who hooks you up? Say it together friends, "G$ hooks us up."

At the urging of loyal readers... let's do this... And I'm sure you will think my list sucks... but hear me out. I break it down different than others... I hope you people in Story City are able to follow along....

MY STAFF AND CONSULTANT LIST

Here's who makes the cut...

1) Anyone who is from Iowa and who has been a staffer/advisor/consultant, at any level, on any campaign or official office in this state for the past 30 years. I know, you may think that's lame, but its true. And if you don't think so... You're drinking some one's or your own Kool Aid.
2) Out of staters who have spent time here. They learned how to say Nevada and Madrid... They've earned you honorary citizenship. We even like the way you talk funny. Never discount honorary Iowans
3) The ones you haven't heard about yet. I'm talking about the kid who comes from no where and gets more than 700 votes for a candidate down in Van Buren County on Caucus Night. Yeah... freakish good.

THE KEYS TO STAFFS AND CONSULTANTS:

1) You can assemble the best, most accomplished, most decorated political staffs in the history of campaigns for your Iowa Caucus staff. But if you don't have anything to sell (candidate)... you will end up with the Giants and Rangers in your World Series. If you don't get the reference (sigh), this is what it means. You can have the best team money can buy... the New York Yankees of politics... but if your candidate sucks and/or can't connect, you're screwed. Staffers and consultants don't win elections. Candidates and ideas do.
2) It doesn't matter if you've been involved since Reagan or just got the job out of college gig today... to put it simple... And I'll probably be the first to say it, you don't need "caucus experience." For real. You can take an entire day to teach a monkey about the Caucuses... and that monkey will get 10 new precinct leaders, tonight.

MY BIG NAME ENDORSEMENT LIST

Endorsements are pretty simple around here...

1) All current City, County, State and Federally elected officials
2) All former City, County, State and Federally elected officials
3) All former candidates who lost City, County, State and Federal elections
4) All heads of interest groups and their organizations... you name the association or concern... hook it up... on the list
5) Iowa Celebs... Movies stars, Athletes, Coaches or basically someone who has been on TV... once... yeah... we're huckleberries about this stuff... deal with it.
6) "That guys" and "that ladys"... You know... "That guy" who is the president of the Lions Club and serves as township fire chief... Or "that lady" who heads up the library board and is chair of the parks and recreation commission... they know everyone and are respected by everyone in their communities.

THE KEYS TO BIG NAME ENDORSEMENTS

1) Just because so and so is with that candidate doesn't mean instant votes. (that's goes for everyone on this list) There is only one organization that can produce 3,000 solid votes in Iowa. They reside on the Southside of Des Moines and are on the other side of the aisle. Do. Not. Let. Anyone. Tell. You. Different.
2) Elected officials are nice and all... but don't count on them doing a whole hell of a lot. Yes, there are exceptions to the rules... A lot of it has to do with their elected duties is why they can't do so much. That whole time thinger. For real... I'm just saying and the honest ones will tell you the same exact thing.

MY GRASSROOTS LIST

Oh yeah... the ones who give their time for free. The most important list there is on this post...

1) Past and present State Party Leaders (chairs, SCC, ect)... all of them
2) Past and present County Party Leaders (chairs, central committees, delegates, IFRW, ect)
3) Leadership of every single past campaign in the past 20 years (chairs, coalitions, precinct leaders, all of them)
4) Past straw poll and caucus attendees for the past four caucuses
5) Volunteers of every campaign in the state of Iowa for the past 20 years. Yes, all of them. Even those crappy campaigns too... all campaigns have great volunteers. Just like all dogs go to heaven.
6) The new activists who join the cause... this year.
7) And everyone else in between.

THE KEYS TO THE VOLUNTEER LIST

I'll put it simple here for you. If you don't know the keys to every single one of these grassroots volunteer lists... Step aside friend. Let the big kids handle this.

CONCLUSION?

Did I leave anyone off? Oh yeah I did. Some on purpose and some not. Why? Call me John Madden... this is the list that matters. If you can put this list together... call them. Get them on board.... maybe 25%... you too can win the Iowa Caucus.

Yes, I can already hear you typing, "G$!!!!! WHY DID YOU MENTION THIS OR NAMES!!!!" Calm down son... When I say, anyone under the above descriptions.... this is what I mean. All of them. And yes, I'll agree with you, as lame as all this sounds. You really do need Iowans from all of the described lists to win.

And if that is lame to you... or think this is way too simplified. I have a great bridge on Loucst Street I want to sell you. I'll give you a good price on it.

Stay thirsty my friends.

Driving with Bob Feller...

2010-12-11T13:05:00.005-06:00

I was bummed to hear that the legendary Bob Feller was moved to hospice the other day. And yes... maybe I'm "going Iowan on you"... but this dude is awesome.

We all know his story. Amazing arm... he probably could pierce brick walls with his pitches. But on top of all the strike outs, no hitters and all the things that make him the epic hall of famer that he is... You baseball historians also know that left the game for four seasons during arguably the peak of his career. The Heater from Van Meter signed up for the Navy THE DAY after Pearl Harbor. Becoming the first Major League player to sign up and fight. Talk about bad ass. Over to you Ricky Stanzi. After his decorated stint in the Navy, he came back to doing what he did best... dominating the mound.

Anyways... anytime I hear the name Bob Feller... I'm always reminded of one my early and favorite experiences on the campaign trail.

I was a young college punk when I joined John Kasich for President in 1999. (yes, for you people smirking at home, John Kasich briefly ran for president). Rapid Robert endorsed Kasich early and did appearances for the campaign. It was mid summer and we had a tour for Kasich as we were building up our Ames Straw Poll efforts... and Bob Feller was going to tag along.

A week before our tour, Kasich dropped out of the race and endorsed George W. Bush. But we had already sent the postcards for all of the house parties. Our supporters were bummed John decided to get out of the race, but still wanted host John at their homes. So the campaign decided to make it a farewell tour... And Bob was still willing to tag along.

The day before the last day of the tour we were up in Humboldt County. I was a make shift advance man for the day. Just lending in on what needed to be done. The schedule was an event in Dakota City and end up in Des Moines for a staff dinner with John and Bob at the Iowa Beef Steakhouse on Euclid (great joint if you've never been).

The event up north ended and this is when I was told, "You're going to drive Mr. Feller back to Des Moines." Insert instant feeling of awesome. Good thing I cleaned my car the night before! After being given my instructions... Mr Feller and I jumped in my red Cutlass Supreme (great car) we were on our way. Was told Bob might wanna stop and check out some farm machinery along the way, which was fine. We had all afternoon to get back to Des Moines. (awesome sidenote, you can take the farm kid out of Iowa... but never the Iowa out of the farm kid, right?)

So we were on the road.

Bob was reading the newspaper and I'm just kind of freaking out... in a good way. For the first 15 minutes of the trip, we didn't talk much. I didn't think he would want some young punk political hack being all chatty. Which is when I started saying in my head, "DUDE, you have BOB FREAKING FELLER in your car! When are you ever going to be doing this again?!"

So I started the small talk. And then... we started chatting it up. "Hey Mr. Feller, you knew Babe Ruth, didn't you?" "George?" Feller smiled. "Yep, good man." And it was on. You name the legend? He knew him and had a story. I started rattling all of them off.

"Hey Mr. Feller, Ty Cobb. Everyone says he was a jerk, is that true." He smiled again. "Well, I got along with him. He was a great player."

"Joe DiMaggio, you knew him too?" Remember, Joltin' Joe had just passed away in the spring of that year. He again replied with a smile, "Joe and I were great friends. We went out to dinner all the time if we were in New York or they were in Cleveland."

The great thing about guys like Bob Feller, they love telling stories... and his are off the charts.

"So, when you went out for dinner, did you meet Marilyn Monroe?" "Yes, when they were married, on many occasions."

While I soaked up in my brush with greatness road trip with Bob... I couldn't stop thinking, "Dude, you are in the car. With a legend. And you are having a conversation about Marilyn Monroe. This is epic before things became epic." I kept asking, he kept answering. I'll never forget that trip. We made it back to Des Moines, scored steaks on the Eastside, such a good day. A great freaking day.

The last day of the Kasich-Feller tour ended at my parents' house up in Jewell. We had a great crowd... not only for John and Bob... but the Nadas were going to play in the backyard. You see, we had them signed to play the Straw Poll for Kasich... and since that wasn't going to happen... they played to end the tour.

It was you know, a typical event up in God's Country, Iowa. A politician... pork burgers... a living legend signing baseballs... a good band playing. No big whoop. (smirk)

I'll never forget the way Feller was with everyone on that day and on that tour. Always gracious. Always took a picture when asked. My Grandpa scored a click. I think he was pretty excited. That picture of him and Bob is still up on my Grandma's fridge. Not only was he meeting a great baseball hero of his... but a fellow Navy guy who served in World War II. It was pretty cool.

Anyways... anytime I hear Bob Feller's name... It takes me back to our little road trip. And again, I'll never forget it.

Here's to you Mr. Feller. I hope you're spending your time being comfortable. You're one of the greatest people I've met. Warm wishes and thoughts to you, your family and friends.

2010-12-08T09:12:00.001-06:00

QCI Investigates: The Establishment

2010-11-16T13:47:00.006-06:00

Sometimes we do have some breaking news and journalistic value for all of you. Today, the QCI Newsroom has obtained a copy of a Blackberry Messenger or "BBM" conversation from the Establishment. (insert spooky music here) Yes, THE Establishment. The ones who run, everything.

The numerous sources we have followed up with... all confirm that this is really how everything is decided.

Here's the chilling BBM transcript...

Waspy Smithfield – They really need to know who’s in charge around here.
Tanner Jones – Agreed. They will crawl back for our help.
Waspy Smithfield – Hey, do you want to meet in the smoke filled back room later today?
Tanner Jones - Hmmm… Maybe. I have a meeting at the UN. Then I have to see if my black helicopter is fixed.
Tanner Jones – So upsetting when it breaks down. It’s such a chore.
Waspy Smithfield – I know, right?! If people knew how hard it was to be the establishment, they would understand.
Tanner Jones – Totally. It’s tough being important.
Waspy Smithfield – That’s OK, we can meet tomorrow. I need to finalize my plans to start the next war for oil.
Tanner Jones – Did you get your Skull and Bones Reunion invite in the mail?
Tanner Jones – Which blazer are you going to wear? Blue or blue?
Waspy Smithfield – Yes, of course. I’m going with blue.
Waspy Smithfield – I’m also going to make a motion we change the secret handshake to something else. You know… everyone knows it’s a handshake and all.
Tanner Jones – That’s terrific. But, I for one am not much for change. Call me elitist and all.
Waspy Smithfield – You damn country clubber!
Tanner Jones – LOL! Good one!
Tanner Jones – Not to be on your ass about it, but are you done with the list of candidates we are going to throw our money behind yet?
Waspy Smithfield – I’m a little hung up with on how to start this war. But I did finish the list of who’s allowed to run.
Tanner Jones – Delicious. You know you can’t just throw these primaries overnight. These things take a little time.
Tanner Jones – Hang on a minute. Karl Rove is calling me.
Waspy Smithfield – Perfect. Tell him “all golden girls and boys fly by the seat of their swords”… He’ll know what that means.
Tanner Jones – Message delivered.
Waspy Smithfield – Ruling the world is fun.
Tanner Jones – It so is. SOMEONE has to do the thinking around here.
Waspy Smithfield – *thumbs up*

Trust no one, loyal readers. Trust no one.

Chiefs, Judges, "Leadership", Kinky and Playground Brawls...

2010-11-15T11:42:00.006-06:00

A few things for you to chirp about in the comment section.... AND one of the best songs and videos I have seen/heard in a long long while... here's your quick hits...

THE KANSAS CITY CHIEFS - I'll just say it. It was like watching monkeys fornicating with a football on Sunday. Don't worry, all sharp objects have been taken away from my place.

CULVER AND THE JUDGES - Hmmm... sounds like an ironic band name. So the news today is Culver saying he'd appoint 'em if they came up with names. Hasn't this guy found his new house in Northern Virginia yet? Cmon son.

PRESS RELEASES CAN MAKE A FUNNY - Yea, saw that the IDP Chair said this of Gronstal and McCarthy on their elections to leadership:

“Senator Gronstal and Representative McCarthy are both steadfast supporters of this state and committed to moving it forward by creating quality jobs and protecting the progress that has made Iowa a national leader in so many areas. Democrats across the state appreciate their work on behalf of all Iowans and willingness to stand up for what is right.”

Um, that's why a good amount of Iowans threw out... a good chunk of that... leadership. #justsayin

KINKY ON POTUS 43 - Yeah... in case you missed this... Kinky Friedman has a good bit on the former President and the current President.

AND FINALLY... Dudes... been loving me some Black Keys for a long time. Not only is this song epic enough to crank loud so you and you palls can head nod... but the video is quite humorous... Stay thirsty my friends...

Weekend Update....

2010-11-13T21:22:00.002-06:00

OK... so for a first time in a long team here at the ole QCI Headquarters, we enjoyed a lazy day of football... tweets... and chirping about. So que the music. Let's get to the awesome that is the QCI Weekend Update....

THE IOWA HAWKEYES - If I refer to the Hawkeyes as that "on again off again chick you break up with, yet hook up again the very next weekend"... then this was one of those disaster dates. The kind that ends up with you getting kicked in the nads. Yeah. That great. I don't think I've seen this many cuss word texted to my phone within in 5 minutes of the ending of this disaster. I believe I saw a few new ones... of which I won't list any them. Because, we try to keep this blog at least PG13. Someone get me and all the other Iowa fans some ice packets for our collective junk.

POLITICAL GOSSIP AT THE SPEED OF TWITTER - So word in Twittersburgh today was that State Senator Wally Horn from out in Eastern Iowa is gonna run for Majority Leader. That would end the term of Governor Mike Gronstal for sure. After that thing got retweeted say, 20 times, five of loyal QCI-ders alerted us that he's running for Assistant Leader. Which one is it then? Does it rally matter? Awe yes... to paraphrase Rick James, Twitter is a hell of a drug.

IOWA NATIONAL GUARD TAKES CARE OF BIDNESS - So was listening to this story over the news breaks today during football... Turns out some of the good guys were out on a mission in Afghanistan when the bad guys showed up. it was great to hear that the Iowa Guard "took care of the situation". No one harmed... except the ones who needed to be harmed. And they took into custody one of the Taliban. Keep kicking ass and get home safe soon, dear heroes.

THE ELECTION IS OVER, RIGHT? Hey, I don't like Leonard Boswell as much as the next guy... but I think you can cancel the "retire Boswell" Facebook ads.

SHAMELESS SELF PROMOTION - Speaking of these Book of Faces you speak of. How about giving a "like" to the World's Crappiest Blog? Click here... spread some love and make your news feed full of the awesome.

AND FINALLY... Your weekend tunes... Stay thirsty friends....

Ride the Lightning Round

2010-11-12T10:59:00.005-06:00

Hmmmmmm... new feature? Don't get too excited dearest loyal readers. Well... This idea stems out of a couple conversations I have had the past few days.

I don't know why people ask me questions about things or particular subjects... but I'm a chatty type of kid, so it's all good.

So I figure, I'd throw out a bunch of subjects... do my quick take on it and call it close. If you got any things you want to ad to the next "Ride the Lightning Round" (super clever name inserting Metallica in to this feature, if you ask me) then email me up.... OK... let's do this.

The Iowa Caucuses - Yeah... that didn't take too long to start, didn't it? First debate set by NBC... and the candidates are planning trips to the state... its not even Thanksgiving yet. Even. Better.
The Kansas City Chiefs - Yes. The Oakland loss still stings. But effff 'em. It's Denver Week. Time to put a whoopin on the methheads ERR Broncos.
Veterans Day and Birthdays - Be honest, some of you wouldn't have thought much about Veteran's Day... or your former 5th grade basketball team mate's birthday for that matter... if you weren't on Facebook.
Facebook Follow Up - Also, are you less patriotic because you didn't say anything in your Facebook status about Veteran's Day? Think about that one.
Iowa Family Policy Center - Yeah. I know, right? But, when you first heard about it.... were you really surprised? C'mon son.
Meghan McCain - Who is Meghan McCain and why should I care what she has to say? Seriously, never heard of her. Did I miss something?
Iowa Hawkeyes - Effff... why don't I ever have a good feeling about playing Northwestern? I mean, it's effing Northwestern.
Boston Celtics - Bwahahahahahahahaha! Or as loyal reader Yoda said, "Miami Heat? More like the Miami Clowns Machine!" Bwahahahahahaha! Celtics!
The Tokyo Sandblaster - I can't even try to imagine what that means. Although, my first thought is... painful, slopped up with a side of hideous?
Remember November 2 - Who could forget? OK... I got it. We won. Let's change some of those avatars out there people. It's kind of lame-ish.
The Des Moines Register - Not sure what's more annoying... their political leanings or those uber huge take over your screen freeze your computer ads on the main page of their website.
Snow - No. I'm not ready for it. I speak for many. I have authority here. We are not read. Please no.
New Book Releases - So many books to get... too close to Christmas-ish. But, the new Denis Leary looks so awesome... might have to pull the trigger when it comes out.
Iowa State Senate - Noice. Although, I think its laughable how tough Former Governor Mike Gronstal is talking. Better yet, keep talking, sir.
Epic Book - Awe crap... get this. I hvae changed the format 4 times now. But, its still gonna rule. Maybe I'll just push out pieces at a time. Release it... the Book Tour the hell out of it. Yessssssssssssss!
Iowa State House - Two words, Charlie effing Smithson, dude. (Kuwait a minute)... I have to admit, had to have this one explained to me. But after that, yeah man, how awesome is that?
You are always on your phone - Hang on a minute. I need to reply to this. It will just take another minute.
New Tunes? So freaking good. Danielle Ate The Sandwich. Move over Elizabeth Shue? Could there be a new American Sweetheart? Hmmm... for real, she belts out epic stuff. YouTube it.
Elizabeth Shue? She is America's Sweetheart, always will be. I mean... well... if you don't believe so... why don't you go back where you came from Mao Zedong.
Good Eats? How have I been in the DeMo this long and NEVER gone to Little John's Burgers on 2nd north of Euclid? Crazy good.
FourSquare - No I did not check in here... or there... or anywhere... You can keep all those FourSquare badges for you Girl Scout sash, pal... Yeah... not a fan.

OK... that was easy enough. More to come... stay thirsty my friends.

Corkage Fee?

2010-11-11T13:25:00.006-06:00

A little break from the normal stuff today... So let's turn to an issue you all can help me figure out.

OK, so call me late to the table on this. Or maybe it's the fact that I'm as cultured as my buddies tell me that I'm not really that cultured. As a loyal reader and friend told me, "Just because you know the difference between a piano and harpsichord, don't make you cultured, dude." There is some truth to that... Oh... to answer that bit for you people in Story City, it's the tones each make... basically.

Also... since I'm admitting things. I'm not much of a going out for dinner type. I know it's weird and I'm weird. I'm just not. Don' t get me wrong, I loves me some epic food, dishes and all that cheese whiz... but "dinner" not so much. I can hear the ladies reading now... wow, that's an impressive man right here.

*shrugs shoulders with a smirk*

But hear me out my fine feathered friends. Call it growing up-ish? But, I'm starting to dig or at least try a decent "dinner" or two at some foo foo joints. Yes, in G$-speak, a foo foo joints are joints that include a wine list. Speaking of this said wine list/menu thinger.... there was this whole thing on there that confused me...

"Corkage fee."

This term instantly sent shock waves to my head.

So much shock, I belted out a Scooby Doo like "Huh?"

The head guy in the mission control center in my brain says, "What the hell is a corkage fee?! Dudes?! I need some answers!" His deputy commander approaches the head guy's desk, "Could it be that you have to pay for them to uncork the wine, sir?" Head guy goes, "That's just ridiculous! Who would do that or pay for that?!!" The deputy guy whimpers, "Sorry, sir... Our experience with wine and this new 'going out to dinner' order handed out by the higher ups is... well... we're a little over our heads, sir." The head guy demands, "I need answers, dammit!"

Of which, being the moron that I am at times, I say a loud, "I need answers, dammit!" That got greeted with blank stares at the dinner table... and waiter. Coming to my senses... I follow up with a, "Alright, I'm no wino, could you tell me what a corkage fee is?"

Dudes, have you heard of this? So like... if you bring in your own wine to some restaurants... you can... you just have to pay a corkage fee. And some nights? They wave the fee! How freaking cool is that? This is like when bring your own beer to some strip club on the north side of town. OK, maybe not that extreme... and more clothes on...

But wait... Hold the phone.

Let me get this straight.

So, this corkage fee... you can bring in your own grape. But no beer? Dudes. Why is there no "pop top fee"?

This... is kind of outrageous.

So wine people can be all cool and stuff... pay their corkage fee... so they can bring in their Boone's Farm to sip while eating their croissant crepes or whatever the hell you eat with wine... but I can't bring in a case of Milwaukee's Best Light to slam while I'm killing 5 pounds of chicken wings? This... is crazy.

*disbelief look on my face with a side of outrage*

Yeah man. This is so bootleg. Peeps can can be all lay de freaking dah french-like... but Bif and the fellas can walk in with their finest ice cold Busch heavies? This is America, dudes. And this don't seem American to me.

Don't send me hate mail now... I know what you're gonna say.

"G$, you're kind of crazy. Nice, but nuts, dude."

Sigh...

Maybe those delicious Milwaukee Best Lights just belong... in some of the best places on Earth. Like in nice heated garages in Jewell... enjoyed with fried foods... with good jokes... with good tunes... with good pals... and not in foo foo joints and their "corkage fees".

Oh lay dee dah Pepe Le Pew... Maybe I'll just stick to the garage.

2010-11-11T08:45:00.001-06:00

Tweet it like you mean it....

2010-11-10T15:39:00.004-06:00

Is this how politics and social media works out sometimes? Hmmm… maybe.

Here’s how a little text messaging conversation went down with a pal of mine from DC. For some reason this makes me laugh. Probably because… most hacks are guilty of it. I can smell my own. Enjoy….

---

MY PAL: hey, give a little retweet love to my last tweet, yo.

ME: Oh. Nice nice. Astroturf much?

MY PAL: f*ck u

ME: Bwahahahahahahahaha

MY PAL: help a bro out dogg

ME: OK, I got you man. Tweet tweet Birdbrain.

MY PAL: u suck, but still the man. Thx.

ME: Astroturf!

MY PAL: shut it wise ass

ME: Youre welcome.

---

And… awe yes… with friends like these, who need enemies?

Just another bizarrely lived moment in my World.

Vote or Trash

2010-11-10T11:01:00.005-06:00

"Those damn kids Barthy! Those Goddamn kids!"

You're picture of the day courtesy of a loyal QCI reader's Facebook album. For some reason I believe this picture is amazing.

It came with the caption...

"Even the street punks get political in Iowa."

Enjoy.

Question Time... Discuss...

2010-11-08T13:03:00.004-06:00

Yes... I know. We are posting more here. You're get a little excited. I know this. I can feel it. I'm serious, we have tons of stuff coming your way. More post-election stuff... I know... kind of stretching it out it bit... (that's what she said) Here's some quick hits for you in case you feel frisky and wanna chirp in the comment section for once... OK... go!

- Efff efff efff efff!!! The Chiefs lose to the Raidahzzzz... not fun. Not fun at all... Damn you Sea Bass!

- Iowa State/Nebraska... seriously, I kick the field goal. Guts are guts... but, I kick to live another day... Seriously.

- Jeez, the Cowboys are goats. Wow.

- So how much are we spending to send POTUS to India?

- Per today's Krusty... hope delusional is Culver?

- Follow up... when did the DMR get all biased and things? (smirk)

- House and Senate Rs meet up today. Congrats to the new leaders!

- Mustache or no mustache? Got mixed reviews.... but turns out some of you love yourselves a lip sweater on my mug.

OK... discuss... and enjoy this awesome Soundgarden vid that will make you rock out with your caucus out. Stay thirsty my friends and use the comment section.

In case you are wondering...

2010-11-04T16:01:00.002-05:00

....There are only 458 days until the Iowa Caucuses.

Here's a little video of somebody's historic victory in 2000... maybe you heard of him...

TOO SOON?!!!!!

Hell to the no. This is Iowa...

Who's your pick? Discuss in the comment section...

Yard Signs win Elections...

2010-11-04T09:32:00.002-05:00

BREAKING... This just in... We have more conclusive data on why Republicans did so well on Tuesday... Yard Signs... Yard Signs won this election... in a big big way.

Our friends over at Rizzo Tees has the pic that closed the deal for the GOP this midterm election. After seeing this... we can see why....

You never know what you're gonna see in Webster City...

2010-11-03T17:32:00.002-05:00

OK... totally forgot to post this awesomeness for you Saturday during some doorknocking freedom fighting.... wait... I think I was having tech issues... Anyways... if you missed the Tweet from Mr. Clean aka the Birdman aka Wes-I-Am... here it is.

Didn't know Louie Vuitton did SUVs? Only in Webster City...

Enjoy....

The Morning After...

2010-11-03T09:48:00.002-05:00

Hey hey hey!!!! What an awesome night! Numerous staffers and volunteers are sleeping it off right now… probably dreaming of a greasy cheeseburger to kill off the upcoming hangover. But not here at QCI… we’re up and at ‘em… Cmon son, we’re legit members of the media! Yes, I can hear you saying it now... "Child please."

Tons and tons of stuff for you this morning… in a very random order.

NATIONAL STUFF – Caught a glimpse of the national map for US House late last night. Looks…. Really nice.
KASICH! Woot! So awesome to see the guy who inspired me to get into this whole damn thing is the new Governor-Elect. Freaking awesome.
THAT MY FRIENDS WAS AN ASS WHOOPIN’ – Talking about Branstad. Sing it friends… “I… got a feel-in’… Terry is back in Terrace Hill!” Where was this Culver momentum Kathie Obradovich? For real... any report who bought this Culver momentum stuff should be ashamed they even printed it. Seriously.
BRANSTACHE NO LONGER – Yeah… totally grew a Branstache for the final push… At the party last night, a volunteer asked me, “Would you like a Branstad sticker?” Then I’m like… “Dude, um, I have a stache… represent.” Sadly… shaved it off this morning… it had a good run. I have more notes on this… stay thirsty on this one.
GOD’S COUNTRY IS SOUTH HIGH RED - *happy happy dance* Good to see Southern Hamilton County is gonna be represented by the good guys! Congrats to Stew Iverson, Rob Bacon and Dave Deyoe!
EAST POLK COUNTY – Something that should be a developing story… how did Funk get beat that bad… something doesn’t smell right.
STATE HOUSE – Speaking of ass whoopins… When a wave hits… this happens. But I’ll argue that the House Rs did a methodical job…. Good issues… Great candidates… that’s how you debate.
CONGRESSIONALS – Iowa is a funny place sometimes. While they’ll switch somethings… they’ll keep some the same. Proud of MMM and Zaun running good races… honorably. Hold on to your hats with Lange… that one ain’t done yet.
STATE SENATE – Some thought 25-25 was far fetched? Um… still 2 races being hashed out. Would be great to get to 24… Somewhere there are ashtrays flying in Gronstal’s hotel room.
OUR PREDICTIONS – QCI is the king of media!! *uber smirk* Hahaha…. We called 3… nah 5 races early yesterday… but we Schultz right. Right if you mean it was on everyone else’s brackets too.

Also… thanks for all the shout outs at the Victory shindig… thanks for reading and thanks for hooking us up with the most hits since I got my car stolen the day after the ’08 election… you people do read this!

Also… in case you’re concerned… car didn’t get stolen this morning… it is a new day in Iowa…. More to come… Stay thirsty… and we bust out this song to all the winners last night…

LIVE TWEET TIME

2010-11-02T19:01:00.003-05:00

Alright... we are going mobile... That means we be live tweeting this bidness.

You can follow me here in Twittersburgh or just keep it here and hit refresh.... My tweetness is one the right hand of this as the handy dandy graphic above just showed you.

Tweet tweet!

Chet Culver is about to be a one term governor...

2010-11-02T18:06:00.004-05:00

You want my prediction for Governor?

Worst kept secret out there.... Here it is...

Chet Culver is on his way to being a one term Governor. End. Of. Story.

There is no momentum... zero. It is just not happening. The Culver brass and Iowa Democrat mouth pieces can talk until they are blue in the face. It's over.

It has been over for a long time.

My question is what time is Chet Culver going to call Terry Branstad to concede? The way these guys have been talking for the past week... I'd put money if Culver is down 13 points... he still thinks he can get a recount win.

Statewides...

2010-11-02T17:39:00.005-05:00

Statewides...

The way things are going today... the wave we are seeing... I say we have chances everywhere... especially with our Statewides.

The one where I think thebest shot tonight, is the one that most schools of thought are going... Schultz has the best chance of the group.

Not because of massive media buys or any of that.... just on the fact that Mike Mauro isn't very well know outside of Polk County. Sure, the list he has of Auditors... ain't too shabby... but still. There was a reason why Schultz is doing so well numbers wise.

But, a lot is happening today... I'm not counting any of our candidates out today.

Talking Governor's race here in a little bit... Stay thirsty friends...

QCI Facebook Status of the Day

2010-11-02T17:08:00.004-05:00

Here's some thing for a little that will represent our QCI FACEBOOK STATUS OF THE DAY....

If you need any clue on how things are going.... here's Chad Airhart's (county treas candidate) status moments ago...

"Jodi just voted as number 885 in our precinct, with about 100 in line still to vote. In 2006 our precinct had a total of 765 voters. High turnout on election day is always good for Republicans. Especially in a Republican County like Dallas. Still 3 hours and 45 minutes to vote. Get out there people. Vote, Vote, Vote!"

Um... it's only 5:20pm.... and people are just on their way home.

Wow.....

Congressional predictions and notes.....

2010-11-02T16:05:00.005-05:00

Let's start cranking out some predictions... that are somewhat serious....

Congressionals...

Oh but wait... we have some breaking news from the World's Crappiest newsroom... Throw up the fancy lettering...

* * * BREAKING NEWS * * *

Just handed to me by a QCI intern... QCI is ready to call 2 more races...

With ZERO precincts reporting... and I want to be clear about this... ZERO precincts reporting... We are ready to call the races for Congress in the 4th and 5th Districts...

Tom Latham and Steve King have won re-election. So there you go.

Now back to you regularly scheduled QCI post....

OK, here you go.... Predicitions in places where there is action.

1st District - Gonna be lame and say toss up... If Braley goes down tonight... Um, the other side is screwed.

2nd District - Miller-Meeks is gonna be your first woman member of Congress. I think its just there. If you are looking at turn out numbers right now? Heavy, heavy in Linn.... Hearing, like everywhere else in the state, where we need big turn outs... and we're getting them. Miller-Meeks gets the upset tonight... who would have thunk it, right? Well, if you have seen how hard she has worked... you know.

Also... peeps out in the 2nd are telling me that Loebsack doesn't even seem like he wants to keep his seat. A Democrat source close to QCI told us that it's like... if he loses... it's not a big deal to him. Interesting.

3rd District - Sure the numbers that have came out of this one... haven't been the best. But again... if you are looking a turnout numbers as we speak... look at Polk County and the Supervisor Districts... Heavy in Bob Brownell's and EJ Giovanetti's... take note of EJ's... this is Brad's backyard.

Turn out is low on the Southside, in John Mauro's area... The Eastside is seeing some huge turnouts... because they got the Funk.

But here's the thing where I wouldn't shut the door on Zaun's chances... Look at Connelly's district. Brad is going to get a lot of these people. This is the Northside... Beaverdale... Irish Catholic... Dowling kids... These are Brad's peeps that no one is seeing... and they are turning out. Big time.

Also... if Branstad wins Polk County... we have a ballgame.

More stuff on the way... Stay thirsty.

Party, Turnout and Judges...

2010-11-02T15:08:00.003-05:00

As the phones continue to burn... Pizza continues to be nibbled on out in Urbandale... ANd we are still proving to be your favorite source for news and maybe wasting your time... heavy on the maybe.

HY-VEE CONFERENCE CENTER - Not HyVee Hall downtown... the one out in West Des Moinesis where the GOP will be partying it up tonight. Here's the address.... 5820 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines... dial it up on your Garman... Remember its the Conference Center in West DeMo.. not HyVee Hall downtown. Got it?

HEAVY HEAVY TURNOUT - Sources close to QCI via the Secretary of State's office are telling us they are thinking turn out could be 55 to even 65%. And we are just about ready to see the work crowd hit.

JUDGES - Have had a few emails about this. Are the judges out? Yes, they will be. I say they are on the fact that voters like me have been voting no on judges before voting out judges was cool. You know the old saying... when in doubt, vote no.

We have some more predictions and stuff on the way.... A little more than 5 hours until the polls close. Light 'em up.

God's Country Politics...

2010-11-02T14:40:00.004-05:00

Getting back to a little bit of God's Country politics... Its the greatest place on Earth... So let's chirp about it.

LOCAL STUFF - We said it before... and we'll say it again. Keep your eyes on the Bacon/Olive and Bailey/Iverson races... this is the key to a new majority in the state house. From what we have been told... there is a reverse wave for Bailey and Olive... both got in on the last Dem waves... And the IDP came prepaired with good candidates recruited. Yeah... these guys can say they are moderate and vote on their own... but, there's one key vote to remember, friends... they both voted in Gronstal and Murphy to leadership. If you needed anything else to know about what happens when push comes to should... there it is.

GOOD EATS - Hey, if you are in the Jewell area tonight... and you wanna eat good... Stop on over to Good Shepherd Parish for their annual Election Night Chili Supper. It's crazy good... and my mom has been making some epic peach pies. From 5-8pm tonight over on the corner of Deckor and Edwards Street in Jewell. If you go, tell 'em I sent ya... and say hello from me.

CALLING ANOTHER RACE - Yeps... we're calling the race for County Supervisor in Southern Hamilton County for David Young... my uncle. One of the best elected officials I know... I'm biased... for sure... But he has no opponent. So there you have it.

More to come... did you vote yet?

BREAKING - No need for retraction...

2010-11-02T14:05:00.005-05:00

*** BREAKING NEWS FOLLOW UP STORY ***

Earlier we called the races in favor of Bill Northey and Dave Vaudt.

We called this race because of two key things...

1) Straight epic polling data our peeps have
2) None of our team of reporters knew the names of their opponents.

But thanks to our loyal readers... here are the names of the two Democratic opponents...

Francis Thicke is Sec of Ag

And.... some Murphy guy for State Auditor.

After taking in this information... and after looking at all the facts and numbers, the QCI News Team is standing firm....

With ZERO precincts reporting... We are calling it for both Northey and Vaudt.

Early Afternoon News and Notes Dump...

2010-11-02T13:22:00.006-05:00

Alright here's an early afternoon Election Day news and notes dump... hahaha... dump.

I HAVE AN INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY - Dudes... been dialing for freedom the past week over at the Victory HQ... And here's something I'm figuring out... there is a good amount of households in the State of Iowa who have yet to hear about this technology called, answering machines. Freaking answering machines. Dudes, now hear me out... there's a goldmine here. Answering Machine Stores in every strip mall across the state. Think about. We will be rich, bitches!

SO GOOD SO FAR - Hearing good things out there... Getting word that precincts where we want high turnouts... are big big turnouts. And from three poll watcher who just dropped in... say that the same day registrations have been all Republican... and 1 indy... Wave? Yeah, wave.

FOR YOU SOUTH HAMMY ELITISTS OUT THERE - I have recieved a few emails from proud South Hamilton High School grads who are a little concerned with Branstad voting this morning in of all places, Ogden... I know, Ogden... But let me set the record straight. He lives in rural Boone County and has a Boone address. He does not live in Ogden. The record is clear. But three cheers for some good ole fashioned Heart of Iowa Conference smack. #goodjoboutofyou

More to come... Stay thirsty....

Election thoughts from John Madden...

2010-11-02T12:56:00.004-05:00

We still have some stuff for ya... we are glad to have received some election analysis from legendary NFL Coach and Epic Football analyst, John Madden... per a phone call received by one of crack team of reporters... John Madden just dropped this knowledge...

"You see, the key to this election and every election... is first, you gotta get supporters, then you get all of the supporters to vote for you... but then... you have to have more supporters than the other guy... and finally you have to turn out more of your supporters out to vote than the other guy... that's how you win."

Take notice staffers... I hope you all wrote that down.

BREAKING... more races called and a DEVELOPING STORY...

2010-11-02T12:31:00.002-05:00

* * * * BREAKING NEWS * * * *

We are trying to keep up with all of data our crack team of pollsters and news team is sending us.... But we are ready to call some more races here in the Hawkeye State....

SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE and STATE AUDITOR...

Base on real clear data, with ZERO precincts reporting... AND the fact that no one could even come up with the names of their opponents...

QCI is ready to call the races for Secretary of Ag and State Auditor...

Bill Northey has been re-elected... And the only CPA in the race... Dave Vaudt has been re-elected.

* * * DEVELOPING STORY * * *

A developing story coming out of Republican Victory Centers across the state... Staffers and key volunteers are telling us... they aren't gonna eat pizza for a very long long time. The pizza delivery industry is monitoring these developments...

Stay thirsty...

BREAKING - We are calling it...

2010-11-02T12:20:00.003-05:00

PA POW!!!!!!!!!

*** B R E A K I N G N E W S ***

Our news team is ready to call the race for United State Senate here in the epic state of Iowa.

With ZERO, I repeat, ZERO precincts reporting... Chuck Grassley has been re-elected.

Congrats, sir.

More reports coming in. Stay thirsty

PREDICTION ALERT - Surprise!

2010-11-02T11:56:00.003-05:00

We know there is a wave coming... and its hitting hard. Been asked the last few days... what is the big surprise?

The Iowa Legislature....

The House is going R... big time. Word on the street is... and I'm as serious as a dry keg 2 hours before kickoff at Kinnick... Watch Pat Murphy's seat. While was door knocking his district... by himself... his opponent has an army.

But that's not my surprise of tonight.... The Iowa Senate. Will is tilt R? Hmmmm... we're going with 25-25 split.... You heard it here first. Remember we are a legit news source. For reals.

More to come. Stay thirsty my friends.

Predictions? Exit polls?!! Yesssssss!!!

2010-11-02T11:22:00.003-05:00

Oh yeah baby... what's a legit news soruce to do? *ginormous smirk*

Of course we're gonna make some predicitions... I have heard from some of you who are a little disappointed that we didn't do our usual Gameday Post... Lo siento... #horriblejoboutofus... but the writing team here at QCI is a little busy making the calls, putting up the signs and mailing the letters... trying to get you suckas to do the right thing. Get the vote out for the good guys.

So... here's how this is gonna down. Our keen insightful, fun loving, junior high humor joke telling crew is pumping out some predictions... AND we have pollsters and techy thingers that will be not only predicting winners and losers... but we have the ability to call a few races... How cool is that?!!! I know!!!! Freaking amazing. All of your high fives and fist bumps are belongs to us. Muwahahahaha.

OK... Stay tuned.. Stay thirsty... and while you are cranking some phones... crank this little ditty...

1st Congressional District... and G n R

2010-11-02T10:55:00.002-05:00

We got our first dispatcher from out East calling in this morning with some stuff going in the First Congressional District.

As you all know Bruce Braley and Ben Lange are in an epic fight. Some interesting news and notes that might be a barameter for things to watch.

First, our source is telling us that inside polls are showing Braley up in Waterloo... and Lange killing it in Scott County... that where the Quad Cities are for you people in Story City reading... Anyhow... the battleground has now become Catholicsville, USA errrr Dubuque. The same place were Vice President Biden just visited with... from what the locals are telling us... a poor showing for such a Democrat stronghold.

Also... Team Braley was lighting the phones last night attacking Lange on taxes... push poll? Eh... prolly not... but it should tell you something.

While we're looking at Dubuque... keep your eye on it. Remember, Branstad has won that county before... and there's a very good Right to Life movement there...

So ponder on that one for a while and stay thirsty... and HEY! It's Election Day y'alls! I think we could use some G n R....

Election Day... Vote Suckas!!!

2010-11-02T10:37:00.003-05:00

Today is the day!!!!

Election Day is here and the Balls to the Wall coverage continues from the World's Crappiest Blog... We start are day embedded in the action.... but first... a joke from a loyal reader....

A politician was seated next to a little girl on an airplane so he turned to her and said, "Do you want to talk? Flights go quicker if you strike up a conversation with your fellow passenger."

The little girl, who had just started to read her book, replied to the total stranger, "What would you want to talk about?"

"Oh, I don't know," said the congressman. "How about global warming, universal health care, or stimulus packages?" as he smiled smugly.

"OK," she said. "Those could be interesting topics but let me ask you a question first. A horse, a cow, and a deer all eat the same stuff - grass. Yet a deer excretes little pellets, while a cow turns out a flat patty, but a horse produces clumps. Why do you suppose that is?"

The legislator, visibly surprised by the little girl's intelligence, thinks about it and says, "Hmmm, I have no idea." To which the little girl replies, "Do you really feel qualified to discuss global warming, universal health care, or the economy, when you don't know shit?"

Stay thirsty my friends... get out to vote! More to come...

Zaun is still rockin in the free World...

2010-11-01T19:48:00.004-05:00

More stuff from Urbandale... or as the cool kids pronounce it... Err Ban Dah Lay.

BRAD ZAUN IN THE HIZZY - Not only are peeps rocking in the free World over at Branstad/Victory... Team Brad Zaun office is burning up the phones as well. They have armies ready to hit the streets and need help too.

Also, in case you missed it... Brad Zaun was on 60 Minutes last night... Check out the interview here.

EPIC IDEA - Had a message from a loyal reader who isn't able to make it out the HQ to help... But offered to make goodies for the worthy warriors. What an epic idea. I know there's a tired staff and hard working volunteer crew out here that could use a little fuel. You can't make it out... drop off some goods for the troops.

Alright... more to come... stay tuned... you got anymore chatter? Email me up... grantyoung72@hotmail.com

Stay thirsty friends...

Live from Urbandale... it Election Eve....

2010-11-01T18:59:00.005-05:00

Live from the Branstad/Victory HQ. Where the phones are buzzin', peeps are pumped... and victory is less than 24 hours. The entire ticket just got done with a rally about an hour ago. Here's a quick update for you all... What I'm hearing and interesting tid bits you might like...

THE STATE HOUSE - The poobahs that be are saying the worst kept secret in Iowa right now. The State House is going back to the good guys. Now its not if its gonna happen, just by how much.

SECRETARY OF STATE - Schultz is gonna get a win tomorrow night. This might be a small surprise. We've seen the polls, heard the buzz. Here's the deal, Mauro's name ID is gonna hurt him.

THIS WAVE - Yeah, I've been chirping about the wave... but its more. You wanna know why these races up and down the ticket are in play? Sure... yeah... its a good year... but the real key? Good candidates. Some top Rs are saying this is one of the best recruiting classes in a very long time... A wave is one thing... crappy candidates are another. And we don't have crappy candidates.

THE BRANSTACHE - So a lot of you loyal readers came up and said hey tonight at the rally. You all are awesome. And thanks for the shout out on Branstache I've been sporting for a few days. Do I keep it or lose it after the election?

VOLUNTEER EFFORT - Holy freaking crap dudes!!!! I'm being told we are at full capacity at all of the centers across the state. Plus... I can tell you... they are crushing phone goals.

EPIC CUPCAKES - Dudes, you HAVE to score some of these cupcakes from Fancypants Cupcake Co. They are freaking amazing. Dudes... they will make your eyes spin, yeah... that good. Shout out to loyal reader and co-owner Sara Craig. She brought a bunch for the peeps. Learn more about these awesome cubcakes by Facebooking this up.

More to come... Stay thirsty and crank this one... You ready?

Heated sidewalks... heated freaking sidewalks...

2010-11-01T15:57:00.007-05:00

If the Iowa House Democrats didn't want any headaches... maybe they shouldn't have gotten so cocky last session... An issue that is hitting the airwaves that is sure to get the ashtrays flying against walls over on Fleur Drive... An issue that is for sure making the blood of the Dem Legislative Leadership boil...

Heated sidewalks. Yup. Heated freaking sidewalks.

Here's how we got to this issue... So there was this bill that was voted on, H-8402 (oh lookie lookie at me, dropping bill numbers, like a boss)... any how it was this green initiative that was for geothermal sidewalks specifically for West Union, IA. There was some amendments and such... Long story short, this was you basic run of the mill pork bill. This wasn't added to another budget. it was its own bill. Straight party vote. Democrats who loves themselves some spending... said voted yes... including Donovan Olson from Boone... and Mike Reasnor of Creston... both Dems who are feeling some heat and uber strong opponents.

Yeah... how good is that vote looking now?

Anyways... we are being told that this is an issue that is clicking with voters in these districts. And rightfully so.... Heated freaking sidewalks? A few questions probably being asked.

Taxpayer sensible types are asking, why are we spending money on heated sidewalks? Then there's freeloading types asking... Where's my heated sidewalks?

For the sake of the future of this state, Tuesday can't get here any closer.

Weekend Political Potpourri for $200 Alex...

2010-11-01T14:48:00.004-05:00

Alright... now time to give some of your reports you've been sending in to the QCI Newsroom (newsroom? really? *smirk*)

FROM THE WEEKEND...

In Polk County --- Lots and lots of action going on. As I reported on Saturday, Des Moines' eastside was jumpin'. Per sources close to QCI one of the most massive ground efforts in Polk County GOP history. Look for some sruprises tomorrow.

In Ames --- Phones were going at full blast and I am told that an army of 20 plus gathered to hit the streets for State House candidate, Chad Steenhoek.

Out East --- Phones slammed... full capacity. Oh and epic Halloween costume phone bank that made the local news.

In Osceola --- Massive rally at 1pm for their hometown gal and the next Lt Gov, Kim Reynolds. And when I say massive, I mean wow. Got lots of emails and texts about this on how impressive it was for a Southern Iowa stop.

I know there tons of other stories and this is just a small snip of it... but the message here? Full onslaught from Iowa Republicans at all levels at the grassroots level. Also, peeps are fired up. More to come... Stay thirsty...

Oh and sidenote from the weekend? How 'bout them Iowa Hawkeyes? Que the party dance...

POTUS 43 still has it...

2010-11-01T14:18:00.003-05:00

OK, not so much of a campaign update... but did you all see the Presidents Bush last night in the World Series? Yeah man... 43 still still throws a good pitch... You know those bumper stickers that say, "Miss me yet?" Judging from the reaction of the crowd, methinks yes.

Check this out.

Obligatory grammar and spelling post...

2010-11-01T14:00:00.002-05:00

After going back and reading my posts from Saturday... and well most of my posts in general... I am a spelling and grammar fail.

Somewhere my english comp teacher, Ms. Frana, is beating her head against a wall.

Which is kind of funny... I think Ms. Frana could see the future... I remember her yelling at me everytime I handed in a paper... she would say,

"Grant, you can either learn this or end up drinking beer in an apartment in Mason City all day."

Turns out she was right, NIACC alum 1998... Anyways, I apologize for the errors... bit loyal readers know better.

More to come.... Stay thirsty.

Krusty knows what's up...

2010-11-01T13:52:00.003-05:00

We start our Balls to the Wall coverage this Monday with a nice little shout out from the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the Blogs, Hershel Krsutofski.

Dude, good to know we're all on the page. Here's his stuff from this morning.

I don't know why this bit bothered me so much... Probably just because it was about the stupid thing I've seen in while.... And friends... this is saying something.

Sunday Morning in Iowa...

2010-10-31T13:50:00.005-05:00

Alright... I'm not much of a wear your relgion on your sleave type... I may wear my Good Shepherd Parish sweatshirt once in a while... You gotta represent, I guess. But, this morning we saw a clear sign that Culver/Judge Campaign and the Iowa Democratic Party are out of touch... Or at least their communications departments are out of touch. It's all in their tweets this morning....

Exhibit A: Retweeted by the Iowa Democratic Party

RT @soroecker: Have yet to see a single GOP office open from Ames, to Oelwein.

Exhibit B: Retweeted by the Culver/Judge Account

RT @soroecker: The Mason City GOP office is closed, while over 120 Democrats are excited & ready to hear from @culverjudge & @RoxanneConlin

Cool, I get the whole "Oh lookie lookie! We're working harder than they are!!! Go us!! Wooty woot, tootie woot!" Yea... I admit it, I've called the opponents headquarters after 9pm while still stuck in the office. Then after going to voice mail and hanging up. Then proclaiming, "Yeah dude, we're still here! We are working harder than them!" Yeah... Childish? Yes. Lame? Yeah well, when you're putting in tons of hours, getting beat (badly) and need little glimpses of hope... This usually does the trick... But back to their tweets this morning...

So Team Culver/Judge and the Iowa Democratic Party were really talking smack that GOP offices were closed? *gasp* On a Sunday morning? *oh my gosh* Call me Ocho Cinco... Because I'm saying child please... And I'll say it... They have zero clue.

Your average Iowan... At 10:00am on a Sunday morning... Are probably gonna be at their place of worship... Um, its the truth... That's what most folks do.

Ask Patty Judge what most folks are doing on a Sunday morning in Monroe County? Betcha, you get the same answer. At church.

Listen, I get it Team Culver and Iowa Democrats... Even though you're, well, getting your clock cleaned... (Oh, and I've been in your shoes, not fun) You're trying to show momentum. Awesome. And I'll give it to you... You guys finally learned a bit about this Twitter thing without sounding smug and petty at the same time. Good for you...

But you proved something to everyone this morning... How out of touch you really are. When you were actually talking smack about closed County Republican Headquarters on a Sunday morning, that pretty much closed the case for anyone who had any doubt. You have zero, ziltch, nada... No clue at all.

Oh and don't worry... County Republican Headquarters will be open today... Well except in Sioux County, Pella and a few others... But you probably don't have any idea why... As you have managed to prove so this morning.

Good Morning

2010-10-30T08:41:00.004-05:00

Good Morning QCI-der and QCI-haters. Balls to the Walls continues... A couple of early posts this AM... to get you cooking.

But a couple of reports for you from our readers... here's a good report from yesterday...

Out east, we have word there was a volunteer who made 900 calls, yeps... 900 freaking calls. #goodjoboutofyou. I'm been told the same office the hosted this volunteer is having a spooktacular phone bank tonight.

Alright... I'm off to knock on some doors for the good guys in God's Country... more to come... stay thirsty and this goes out to my peeps in the V-I-C-T-O-R-Y offices... holler... because this is all you do....

Nobama for Culver...

2010-10-30T08:32:00.002-05:00

Earlier this week... I chirped about the POTUS... And how he's naga... Naga... Not gonna come campaign For Culver.

Today, the VPOTUS was in Catholicsville, USA (that's Dubuque for you people reading in Story City). Rallying in support of Pelosi Lieutenant Bruce Braley. Political visits out of the White House can be a funny thing to read sometimes... I've been involved in a few for candidates here in the Hawkeye State. They can mean a few things...

1) As a favor for a member in leadership to raise some funds
2) Protect turf for a future re-election campaign
3) Garner up some buzz for a challenger... Or...
4) Recovery Mission: to help save or keep someone in office

Friday's stop was most definitely a #4... Oh look, politics is like the value menu... Anyways, here's the thing about White Houses... They don't like to be embarrassed too often in elections when they don't need to. Vice President Biden's visit means, its very close there... Even, maybe salvageable.

I want to go back to President Obama's last trip here in that so very typical backyard in Des Moines not so long ago *heavy smirk*... Chet Culver promised that Obama would be back to rally for him. Well friends... The schedule has been released... Polls have been looked at... After checkin through a few channels and keeping an ear out... Guess what... No POTUS visit.

If you needed any more evidence that a one term Governor that will be Chet Culver... I didn't say so... Polls didn't say so... The White House just did.

Stay thirsty... More on its way...

Polk County...

2010-10-30T08:27:00.002-05:00

Our balls to the walls coverage continues with a little local flavor. Polk County.

Now I've already talked about this wave thinger happening... And while there many many local yocal races happening... To me, Polk County is kind of taking a center stage. Why you ask? The Polk County Republican Party.

Now Steve Roberts may have to enlighten me... But I'm not sure I've ever seen a Polk County Party so active and on offense. They have candidates running in just about every office if I'm counting right... Now there all sorts of action happening... But where is the epicenter? Let me play this tune for you...

That's right... The Eastside. Who would have thunk it, right? Que the next tune...

Former congressional candidate Dave Funk is really becoming the leader of this charge on the East side of Polk County, and its getting noticed. I have had a few prominent Democrats who have commented to me in person on how a bit nervous... Er... Nautious they are getting about what's going on. Then you got candidates like Kim Pearson who is, from what I have been told, has been really making some noise and garnering support.

Listen, there are a whole lot of success stories going on. A lot I'll credit to the Polk County party and the candidates who stepped up willing to serve. I know for a fact that there is a massive ground game being implemented this weekend. Again, from my experience, the largest and most agressive I've ever seen.

How is this happening? Again, good leadership and candidates... But the Polk GOP has a little ace in the whole... Named Darrell Kearney. You all know DK and what he can do... Raise some cash. Leadership and great people to step up to run is one thing... Having the money to do it is another... And the Polk County Party has some money now and spending the right way.

#goodjoboutofyou to the Polk County GOP... Lots of work to do, but they are getting it done.

Stay thristy... More on its way..

The Wave...

2010-10-29T22:42:00.002-05:00

From time to time during my coverage here, you'll hear me talking about the "wave" that is happening. Meaning the promise and vibe of a Republican sweep that soon may happen on November 2.

This is kind of the reason for the heavy coverage. I'm intrigued and cautiously excited at the same time. You see, I was involved in a campaign when we had a sort of Republican wave nationally back in 2002. We were told it was happening... It did... Just not here in Iowa.

So a lot of what you'll see from now until we have winners Tuesday is... Kind of a study of it...

Oh hey, also... I'll be tweeting this bad boy. So be sure to follow me in Twittersburgh.

More on its way... Stay thirsty.

Balls to the Wall coverage... begins now.

2010-10-29T22:12:00.003-05:00

Alright... We are now starting our first ever real wall to wall coverage here at QCI. It's called... Balls to the Wall... because its go time suckas. Its Friday night... But this is just the beginning of a whirlwind weekend frenzy to proceeds to Tuesday night. And sure nuff, the World's crappiest blog is here... On the ground... Doing the damn thing... Telling you what I'm hearing and seeing. Will it be awesome? Eh, well this is the World's Crappiest Blog, so who knows...

I'll post as much as I can with scoop, commentary, randomness, junior high humor and of course... Awesomeness.

Here's what we have now...

ON THE AIR -- In case you missed it... And judging by the shared linkage on Facebook, you haven't... Brad Zaun has an ad up with his wife DeDe... Somewhere... Leonard is getting angry. I wonder if this is what Boswell himself calls it... Rovian, Roverian, Karl Rove tricks... Check it out...

CMON SON -- So the late breaking news this afternoon... Is Tom Miller's fundraising report. Turns out... Two of his deputies within his own office has loaned his campaign some dineros. *jaw drops*... Is this for real? I mean... Really? I get if you have big donors and such... It's a statewide race... But, within your own office from people who report to you? Cmon son. If you don't have any illusions that Tom Miller is in deep manure... This report just said so... Both politically amd ethically. Wow.

More balls to the wall coverage on the way. You hearing anything? Gots some cool pics? Rocking a phone bank somewhere like no other? Let me hear about it... Email me at grantyoung72@hotmail.com

Stay thirsty and keep checking QCI... We gots more stuff coming. But crank this little ditty dedicated to all of the field warriors out there getting it done...

TL Winnebago and the Branstache

2010-10-29T10:09:00.003-05:00

A little QCI photo journalism? *heavy smirk* Anyways... the good Congressman made a quick stop and I got to check out the Latham RV... so I figured I pose with my Branstache... yeah I know, it's gonna look great once my voice changes and I hit puberty.

Stay thirsty...

QCI Legislative Race Forcast? Child Please...

2010-10-28T08:57:00.007-05:00

Yeah I know... I totally have zero street cred when it comes to theses races... but as my Uncle Bruce always says... "I've learned everything I know from books and people. I don't read many books but I know a helluva lot of people." Same here. From the peeps I know, numbers and straight up witnessing it... here's my little State Legislative preview for next Tuesday... or at least what to watch for in my opinion.

WHAT IT IS - Right now the school of thought is... the House is switching and the Senate is gonna get close. Which is sure just to make "Governor Gronstal" really really pissy for a while. Anyways, the good guys are getting a little excited, yet cautiously optimistic. It's been well documented that the State House and Senate have recruited very well. I've heard peeps tell me that this is one of the finer groups of candidates we've seen in a while. So good and in a great year... it has caused Speaker Murphy to even door knock his own district. Yeah.

BELL WEATHER - If you are looking certain races or region to see how well we are doing next Tuesday night in the State House... or to see how big this so called wave is... all you need to look to is Southern Hamilton County... ERRR God's Country, Iowa... And 2 races... House District 9 McKinley Bailey (D) vs. Stew Iverson (R) and Senate District 5, Rich Olive (D) vs. Rob Bacon (R)... "G$, what about Dave Deyoe?" Dude... He's running against an uber lefty... he's fine.

THE REGION AND DISTRICTS - "Why are these your bell weathers? Because you're from there?" No... but you're right, I kind of have a habit of giving love back to the motherland... but that ain't what I'm cookin'. Look, Southern Hamilton County is a Lean Republican area. Straight up by the numbers in voter registration. These Rs are very similar to what I think of Dallas County Rs. They are your Republican type of Republicans. But here comes the rub... a very unique challenge for these two races...

THE INCUMBENTS - Rich Olive and McKinley Bailey. Both Democrats... some would say moderate Dems. How the hell are Democrats winning in an area that is and should be considered safe R? Both came into office on a D wave. Bailey bested George Say-I-Corn Eichorn and Olive barely... just barely bested Jim Kurtenbach. "So what, they came in a D wave... how did they win R precincts and districts?" Family... pretty simple. For Bailey, while he has the Southwest part of Southern Hamilton County, he's a Webster City kid. And kind of part of a legacy. His father sits on the Board of Supervisors, with my Uncle Dave. So, with a last name and a family history in local and Democrat politics... that's not gonna hurt ya when you need to run up the score where need to. Plus his military profile suits him well when runnin in with Rs.

Then you have Rich Olive. Pretty solid name ID from Story City... but how the hell is he over performing in Lyon Township (includes city of Jewell) and other parts of Southern Hamilton County? If all politics are local, then in God's Country... all politics is family. Rich's better half, Marian, belongs to a very well liked and a very well respected family back home... and like every other county in Iowa, back home in God's Country... everyone has (what seems) like a million cousins. Or cousins with other cousins... you catch my drift. "Oh G$, surely you jest this is how they win." Explain to me why in a few households in Jewell have most of the R yard signs... and an Olive one? Yeah. I know....

SO DO WE HAVE A CHANCE IN THIS BATTLEGROUND? - Awe hell yes we do. Stew is doing very well. His Wright County peeps will be there... plus he's be working hard. Also look at Bacon (epic name BTW). Working hard as well... this is where the wave helps the most. My point with this entire post... is that... if the wave is here this cycle... and it seems it is. These races will tell us. Sure, we are going to have upsets in other districts... but with the obstacles and resources that have been put into both... we're gonna see what happens. Good news is... I'm hearing some good stuff. So hold on to your hats friends... this one is gonna get wild next Tuesday... Got another area I wanna chirp about... more on that soon. Until then... Stay thirsty my friends... and here's a little something to bob yeh heads to while you get your GOTV on...

Pre Election Quick Hits...

2010-10-27T14:39:00.004-05:00

Awe yeah doggs... We brought back one of our favorite headers... and features. I've been getting hit up with a lot of questions lately. From texts, emails... from the peeps, readers and random strange at bars. So I thought, what the hell... do some quick hits of some frequently asked questions in the form of Quick Hits.

How well are we doing? Easy enough question to start. Very good. We just need to keep pushing.

How is [insert down ticket candidate name here] doing? Are they going to win? You wanna know how good our down ticket peeps are doing? Check the latest media buys for the last 6 days. With out getting into too much detail... here's what you have to watch... Brenna Findley's and Matt Schultz's number on election night. If one of these two (or both) are winning... look the hell out.

How's the state house and senate? See previous answer. For real, you can't help to be nothing short of impressed on how the legislative teams have done this year. They've done their homework, recruited very well and are just straight up getting after it. I have a ton more on this, but here's my teaser on another post I got coming... Watch the Bailey/Iverson and Olive/Bacon races. More to come on this one.

When did the Culver Campaign (and the IDP) finally figure out how to use Twitter? Oh yeah... I know, funny right? Yeah... someone else must have taken over the Twittering duties for sure. Less smug more... actual interesting. Good for them... you know.... with less than a week to go.

What's there left to do from now until Tuesday? Plan parties? Um... Horrible question. Worst in history. Terrible. There are so many great races up and down the ticket that need you. Grab a phone and be somebody. Tell your friends.... let's BCS run up the score on these guys. Stomp on their necks... lets finish them, if you smell what I'm cookin'.

More to come... stay thirsty and get your GOTV on.

England loves Junior High Humor

2010-10-27T08:41:00.004-05:00

More stuff to come to heal your inner politico... but a quick break with more junior high humor from Jolly Ole England. Dude, one of our loyal readers are starting to help us figure out why British comedy is so epic, yet cultured. We keep getting pictures... so we thought we'd share them...

Insert Fergie song here... these jokes write themselves. More pics and other junk.... hehe junk... up next, stay thirsty friends.

Boswell vs Zaun... Cmon son!

2010-10-26T12:36:00.007-05:00

So yeah. Brad Zaun and Leonard Boswell debated last night on KCCI... Remember when I said that I thought Leonard was an alright guy... yeah, boy... was I way off on that one. Someone gets a little pissy when you are actually starting to beat him.

As I watched and tweeted the debate... here are a few things I noticed...

THE BOSWELL RAMBLE - Urgh... the most annoying part of any 3rd District debate. When Boswell can't actually answer a question... or doesn't want to go on record on a particiular issue... you get this answer from our very effective *smirk* Congressman:

"Well, uh, that's an important issue... we're gonna need to take a look at that... get our arms around it... then have some meetings to learn more... uh... yessir that's what I'm gonna do."

IF ANYTHING GOES WRONG, BLAME BUSH - This still works? Cool, because I had a hard time putting the lid on a fountain soda... I know, super annoying right? But then I figured it was George Bush's fault. And everything seemed to make sense. This is classic Leonard at his finest. When he can't tell you what his postition is on anything... he sure will tell you what ain't his position... then if he's in a real jam... it's George Bush's fault. Also... if you really him tongue tied... he'll say you are Karl Rove and using Rovarian Rovian er uh Karl Rove tactics.

TERM LIMITS ARE COOL, WAIT NO - Alright, now, the term limits bit. Eh... I have always believed the best term limits are elections... but that's just me. But, when you make a promise... then break it? Not a big stretch for most politicians. Then you answer with, "Well, I was for term limits, but then I got to Washington." Someone get Leonard some relish, mustard, ketchup and all the fixings for his foot.... it'll taste better when he inserts it in his mouth.

THE REAL LEONARD - Last night, for the first time... in a long time. We saw the true Leonard Boswell. Not the war hero that, from what I'm told, flew helicopters... Not the nice good ole boy from Southern Iowa... Actually, it was reversed... this was the angry and smug good ole boy. You know these types, the ones who are never wrong. If you make a legitimate arguement against a certain vote of his... he takes it like you just said something about his mother. Lenny, it's issues, bruh... chill and actually answer the question. How long have you been elected? Thin skinned much? Case in point that we saw the REAL Leonard Boswell last night... is his closing statement. Instead of saying... its an honor serving you... yeah yeah yeah... I'll fight for yas... blah blah freaking blah... I'm asking for your vote... yadda yadda yadda... he goes with:

"This is actually about choices. Not about those flaming things that Mr. Zaun talks about."

Nice. Stay classy Davis City.

You know, I've heard lots of criticisms on candidates... he said this, she did that... he looks like this, can you believe they did that... yeah, I getcha, alright? Last night, we saw a literally worn out smug rude politician who didn't want to be there and a man who went out of his way to be respectful to an opponent whose campaign isn't worthy of it.

Was there any game changers last night? Nah... but a clear contrast. Someone eager to go to work... And one who can't be bothered to be questioned. #goodjoboutofyou Brad Zaun... And a Cmon son to you soon to be former Congressman Leonard Boswell. Don't let the door hit ya, where the good Lord split ya.

Where is POTUS? And big fat whats?

2010-10-25T13:32:00.005-05:00

This is QCI's 500th post. Holy smokes. Losts of stuff to get at. 8 days to go. It might just be a week of mulitiple posts. Let's get to it.

WHAT ABOUT BARACK? Uh-member when POTUS was in town at your typical Des Moines backyard (heavy smirk)? Yeah... so Chet Culver kept telling everyone... and let me paraphrase a little bit,

"Dude, he is SO gonna come back and campaign for me. Before this is over. To seal the deal bro, know what I'm sayin'? He's my homie. For real, we be tight and shizznit. Barry will be back for me... (tearing eyes) he will be here... (sniffle) he so will... (sobs)..."

Really? You guys are tight? What, because he accepted your Facebook friend request? In case you missed it and judging by the blank look in your faces, you have... the White House released its schedule. No Iowa stop. No POTUS... I mean VPOTUS, Biden, is coming to Catholicsville USA... to help Braley (and THAT should tell you everything)... But... no Obama stop. Nopes, not at all. Ziltch. Nada. Just like Culver's chance at a second term. Which is kind of ironic in a way... I mean you know... Culver making promises he can't keep. It all makes sense now.

More to come... stay thirsty and just because we loves ourselves some junior high humor mixed in with our politics around here.... here's your video of the week that is making me and other like minded 13 year olds... giggle.

Junior High Humor from across the pond...

2010-10-20T14:27:00.004-05:00

Lookie lookie kids... you all can file this under the Junior Humor department here at QCI.... Maybe we'll start a feature with this type of thing. Yeah yeah... I know how long features laster here.

Anyways, we just recieved a picture from a loyal reader in London! Yes, that London. With Big Ben, Parliament... I know how cool is that?!! Anyways... the following picture was sent to was with this message:

"G Money, Put this on your blog if you would like. You merry old chap!"

It sounds way cooler if you re-read with with an English accent. Enjoy.

I Want My Two Dollars!!!

2010-10-20T11:33:00.004-05:00

When I hear about newspaper endorsements, I always think of this kid. Dudes... anytime you can make a Better Off Dead reference... it equals amazing...

Anyways... 13 days (spooky... muwahahahaha) to go and the newsies are making their picks. Newspaper endorsements can be a funny thing sometimes... Not sure how much weight they have as much as they are another way to get your name in again... no what I'm saying? I mean... On our side... its a double edged sword if the Des Moines Register endorses you... In some part... I see it as a victory... some will see it as the communist red star endorsing... "Why don't you just say Stalin endorsed ya, ya bum!" OK, maybe that's a little bit of stretch.

Anyway... to me newspaper endorsements are weird, cool, bad and all that with a side of green beans and bacon.

I'll always remember when the DMR endorsed McCain in the '08 Caucuses... did it help? Oh hell yes it did. Why? It was a free ad... But the others scoffed... but, I argue it got us from being completely dead in Iowa... to 3rd.

The other side lives for newspaper endorsements....

You wanna know how much Democrats put weight in newspaper endorsements? Dudes... if you needed anymore evidence of the media worship the left has... read this bit by Gary Barrett in the TIR... Not only did Gary jack it out further than Pedro Cerrano in the one game playoff against the Yankees... but he shows how much these guys worship the media.... hell, after that one, I'm starting to see Lefties start calling the Gazette "right leaning"... C'mon man.

Anyways.... this Sunday or Late Saturday evening should slop your inner political junkie with a little gravy and a biscuit when these endorsements come out.

What the hell is with the food things today?

Until then... stay hungry? And a... wait... get out of your chair... no, I'm telling you. Stand up. Crank this and shake it like you mean it. Stay thirsty my friends.

Losing Your Phone is Goats

2010-10-18T17:15:00.003-05:00

Alright back in the saddle here at the QCI HQ. I know... I kinda took a brake... well, it wasn't ERR or is kinda my fault. You see... I lost my Blackberry. That

I figure if I ever find some chick dumb enough to have a kid with me... and the said child went missing... I'm pretty sure this is what its like... and I'm as serious as a dry keg 4 hours before kick off. Not good dudes, not good at all.

After a couple of very well written hate messages to me.... hate in the sense of hating that I haven't posted in what seems like ages... I figured I try to start and get back to what we do well around here. Being nice and random. So let us begin.

THE PARTY - Dudes, last time I posted I was on my way to celebrate my 33rd time around the sun. It was awesome! And we raised some dough for the peeps. #goodjoboutofyou

DEBATES FREAKING EVERYWHERE - In case you've missed it... and judging by the empty stares you have... there's been a ton of debates. One that caught my eye was (naturally) the Zaun/Boswell one... Dudes... how desperate has Boswell been in this entire campaign. All of my favorable views of him have gone in the toilet. For real... turns out he's not you're grandpa... just another politician who will do anything to keep his seat and kick ass Congressional pentions. And can be a real jerk too. Who knew? High five Lenny... nah, middle finger to you Congressman. Thanks to you, you've turned this race more ugly than licking the floor of the Iowa State Fairgrounds Grandstands after a Michael Bolton concert. Yeah that ugly and tastes just as good as an isult to the process you have produced for the pass 5 months.

CULVER HAS A CHANCE! He so does! He's at a perfect 39%!!! Dudes! Momentum! Yeah...momentum. Can't wait until we fire up the ole Ganske for Senate Re-elect next cycle! Oh wait... yea... You can crank all the Journey you want pal, it ain't gonna happen. But the "Milk Party" vs Tea Party bit is cute. Um... sorry. Not really at all. I hear, DC and working in the administration is a nice transistion.

More stuff coming... I promise.... Until then, jam out to one of my new favorites... Danielle Ate The Sandwich!!! Stay thirsty my friends.

Tonight! Tonight!

2010-09-30T10:57:00.005-05:00

Alright alright! Today I complete my 33rd trip around the Sun. Pretty awesome. Thank you for all the tweets, texts, emails, call and all that stuff. Birthdays are epic.

Also, thank you all for pitching in for milk money. You people are freaking awesome.

OK... again, here's the deets for the shin dig. Tonight I age... and then we rage! Crank some tunes... then... score a gyro. I know, how cool ist that?!

What: G$ @ 33 for 33

When: TONIGHT - 6:00pm until whenever

Why: Have fun and help others by chipping in for 33 gallons of milk for those who really need it.

Where: Johnny’s Hall of Fame, Downtown Des Moines, 4th and Court

SEE YOU ALL THERE!!!!!!

Next Thursday....

2010-09-24T18:12:00.001-05:00

Loyal Readers,

Hope everything is going great! Next Thursday, September 30th, I will complete my 33rd trip around the Sun. For you people in Story City reading this, it means it's my 33rd birthday. (smirk)

In the past, along with great friends, we’ve held huge blow out bashes that were legendary. But we're all getting a little old now and are busy with other things that life brings along. It's all good, we're old… This is what happens.

Lately, I've spent a little time helping out at the Central Iowa Shelter. In the kitchen JD, the head cook, told me that one of the top items they need on a regular basis are simply gallons of milk. You know, for breakfast and to try to provide a basic balanced meal for those who can't provide for themselves.

Man, think about that. I know there are some there who stay there that are off to brand new jobs or job interviews the next day. Just trying to get their life back together. You may never know how much a bowl of Wheaties in the morning could make such a difference. So here's what I want to do for my 33rd time around the Sun. I want you all to join me to have a little fun with all of my favorite people... And help some folks out.

Here's the goal, last time I was at HyVee (proud sponsors of your Iowa Barnstormers) a gallon of 2% was going for $3.49. Since I'm going to be 33, I figure let's raise enough cash for 33 jugs of milk for the Central Iowa Shelter. That's about $120 when you round some things up.

Can we make a difference? You bet! All while having a good time? But of course.

So here's the deets...

What: G$ @ 33 for 33
When: Thursday, September 30 - 6:00pm until whenever
Why: Have fun and help others by chipping in for 33 gallons of milk for those who really need it.
Where: Johnny’s Hall of Fame, Downtown Des Moines, 4th and Court
RSVP to grantyoung72@hotmail.com

Thanks to a proud sponsor of your Iowa Barnstormers, Johnny’s Hall of Fame will have drink specials for those willing to pitch in on the milk money. See? We got you hooked up.

So keep next Thursday after work open, get a sitter… get the neighbor to let the dog out… reschedule that oil change… “shampoo your hair” another night and come on out. Feel free to forward this on to others I may have missed. The more the merrier.

See you then,

G.

Palin and Irony... We have an app for that.

2010-09-20T15:22:00.005-05:00

As promised... here's a little more from last Friday Night... plus other things going down...

MORE FROM THE DINNER - So it was all things Sarah Palin in the DeMo. Speech was... eh. Red meat stuff. Just what the doctor orders for these kinds of deals. Had one longtime activist/consultant try to tell me that it was Reagan-ish... and yes with a straight face. Listen it was a rally up the troops thing. Which is... what you do at these deals.
ALRIGHT, I CAN'T KEEP THIS IN - Really? So, she made some dig at Karl Rove again. Party unity! Oh... that's cool. While you were mayor of Where-is-it and shooting things... Rove was... you know, only orchestrating some of the most largest historic gains in our party's history... oh and ran a few of those... dang it... (scratching my head)... what do you call them? Successful campaign election thingers? Also, he has been to Iowa. Twice this year. Oh and one last thing... it's not just you, its just a pet peeve of mine.... unless you all are best sledding friends or something... It's President George W. Bush... Not "G.W."... but that's just the Sam Seaborn in me... my bad. Cool, your pal Christine O'Something won and all of your other superfriends won. A lot with your help. Good for you. But respectfully, to paraphrase Rove who said it best... The American people will elect liberals, the American people will elect conservatives. But the American people won't elect crazy.
WHO IS THIS ESTABLISHMENT YOU SPEAK OF - I get a kick out of this arguement we seem to have in the party from time to time. I mean, I get the basic premise... I know what you are saying. But you all know we elect most of our party leaders, right? So a lot of peeps were talking about this gal out in Delaware... (insert Wayne's World reference here). Lots of chatter about it on Friday. I even overheard... and let's just call this person a big big time "Iowa Party Boss" (if that's the term we're using now)... actually had the menards to say to a group of activists, "You know, these big wigs and others really should should stay out of primaries, let the people speak." Laugh-a-freaking-ble. Hello kettle, meet black... I think you two might really really hit it off. Awe yes... party politics can be a hoot.
HAWKEYES - Urgh... All I got on this is... The Iowa Hawkeyes are like that chick you have an on again off again thing going. They'll break your heart... but you know you'll be hooking up again next weekend. And... it seems so right.
CHIEEEEEEEEEEEEFS! Dudes! The Kansas City Chiefs are undefeated! I know! It's awesome! (insert happy dance here)

QCI FACEBOOK STATUS OF THE DAY

"So and so... wow, she doesnt just fall off the wagon, she does a swan dive. old gal stumbles in around 12:30, takes a dump on the rug, and has no idea where the car is. good times? not so much."

Best is the first comment under this one from the said gal, "I found the car!" I swear I don't make these up.

IS THERE AN APP FOR IRONY? So Team TEB released a new ad that spoofs the Apple iPhone ads and to promote their new Phone application for the campaign. Clever and well done. The kids over on Fleur Drive snarked back with a little ditty of their own... here's a quick play by play on via Twittersburgh....

@iowademocrats - We're so excited for the new Branstad app that we cut our own commercial!

Followed up with a...

@iowademocrats - To Firefox and IE users trying to view the ad, we fixed that whole "must scroll way down to see anything" problem.

Again, as I said I'm no techie... but it looks like there is an app for irony.

AND FINALLY... Don't judge me on today's tune... but on my way back from hanging with the coolest little kids I know (Ainsley and Harrison)... I was listening to Cousin Brucie on 60s on 6. (So freaking good) Anyways... as you may know, Cousin Brucie was in the movie Dirty Dancing. He had they guy who wrote the soundtrack and scores for the flick. Good stuff... so... anyways... for today's song... you many wanna dance to it. Stay thirsty my friends.

And that's it....

2010-09-17T20:34:00.002-05:00

They're bussing the tables here in HyVee Hall... Button dudes are out slinging their stuff... campaign kids are getting out signs and other stuff... So here's kind of a wrap up thinger.

PALIN NIGHT - This was a big night for her. Lots of expectations and such. I think she did... alright. The only big thing for her tonight, in my opinion, is that she was here. Nothing was a real game changer until she starts spending more time.

There was no game changer tonight... not that there had to be.

GOOD SHOW - Big shout outs to all staff and volunteers who put this event together. Well done and we are out of here before 9? #goojoboutofyou

THANKS - Hear's a shout out to all you loyal readers. Thanks for saying hello and all that stuff.

Oh... don't think I'm done with this thing... I still got more notes... but I'm still gathering up stuff. You people are a little chatty tonight.... more tomorrow.

See you at Flanagans....

Stay thirsty my friends.

More Reagan Dinner Stuff....

2010-09-17T19:31:00.002-05:00

Alright... twitters are blowing up... Palin is speaking.... so this is Live Blogg... ish?

I think I'll just live tweet it and call it close. I can't type well... So here.... check it out on the right side of the blog or hit me up the Twitters....

Will post some notes here tonight... so no need to start crying. Cool? K, awesome.

Reagan Dinner Update #3

2010-09-17T18:48:00.002-05:00

Alright... finally getting back to Bloggers row... After making the rounds... Here's what we have...

TWEET TWEEEEEEEET - Having some fun here tonight. Twitters are blowing up at the event.

PIZZA? ANYONE? Dudes.... can you help a brotha out? Timmy is wasting away out here. Pepperoni, mushrooms... and thin crust. HyVee Hall. C'mon son!

SPEAKING OF TWEETERSBURGH - Listen I loves me some snark once in a while.... and maybe because I'm proud partisan... but anyone notice that the official Tweets out of Fleur Drive are always snarky, smug and well... a little pissy as of late? Hmmm... anyone else wann keep debate polls?

More coming.... Hang tight

Reagan Dinner Update #2

2010-09-17T17:58:00.002-05:00

Alright.... it's starting to get a little packed in here.

Just about an hour until we get start the show. Here's a few things for you all that I got...

PEEPS AND PEEPS AND MORE PEEPS - Dang man. Lots of people. This is gonna be a big crowd. Lots of people.

PIZZA RUN - Hey, can someone get a pizza here. Our boy Timmy is hungry and running hard. Pepperoni and mushroom... thin crust. Send it HyVee Hall over at the Nerdary... ERRRR Bloggers row :). Awesome thanks in advance.

CHEERS - Peeps are hooting and hollering in the lobby once in a while. Not sure if its Joni Scotter firing up the peeps or what ever it is. Also, got my Joni hug in. It's officially a RPI event.

SHOUT OUTS - Hey man... Mark Vonderohe is in the house. He made a ton of call this week... enought to score some awesome seats. He and many others are putting in some time making sure we are running full bore. (sp) #goodjoboutofyou Mark and all the other great activists are are getting it done son!

More to come....

Awesomenesss..... stay thirsty.

RR Dinner 2010 Update #1

2010-09-17T17:11:00.003-05:00

Alright first post. We are live at the 2010 Reagan Dinner. And here is what we have right now...

ENERGY - Wow dudes... there is a buzz tonight. Lots of people and they are fired up.

CONLIN IS PELOSI - A fella, donor type just dropped by bloggers row and said, we gotta start spinning that ole Roxanne is Iowa's as Nancy Pelosi... Ok... will try... But she has ZERO chance so we can move on with stuff now.

VOLS AND STAFF - I gotta tell ya... haven't seen this many vols used for an RPI event.... to me this spells that we're gonna have a big crowd.

TIMMY ALBRECHT IN THA HIZZY - He just dropped by bloggers row... always good stuff.

More to come... Everyone hang loose.

Stay thirsty...

Vroom Vroom!

2010-09-17T12:45:00.004-05:00

Well well... here we are. Reagan Dinner Day and if you aren't here tonight... keep clicking here. We got you covered. if you come to the thinger? Stop on by and say hey... Should be a good night of mulitple posts... scoop and other things that may not be interesting at all. Some of the things we'll be chatting up...

PALIN'S BIGGER DAY - Since we talked last, I said the most understated thing in a while... this is a huge day for Sarah Palin. If you sifted through all the news and buzz on this trip... a few things jump out....

1. Eric Woolson knocked it out of the park with this John Glenn 1984 quote.
2. All signs are pointing to a run
3. If you want to win Iowa, you have to play here... we're not much for flirts... you're going to have to ask us out.

Tons of media types gonna be in the house tonight... CSPAN covering it live... dudes... get your popcorn popped... ice down that 12er of Milwaukee's Best Light... Political Dorks of the World unite!

DEMINT 2012 - As in South Carolina Senator Jim DeMint... So this stuff is finally starting to surface. Been hearing that he was being courted... quietly. From what I have been told, the Tea folk dig him better than Palin... just on the substance side of things. And the interesting bit of the day... Bob Vander Plaats is hitting up his staff to come to Iowa. Which just blows up a whole bunch of theories... speaking of 2012.

IS THAT C-RAIG? Dudes.... I know you loves yesterday's video. But as a couple of loyal readers pointed out... is that the founder and editor in chief of The Iowa Republican in the first 10 seconds of the video of awesome? Hmmmm.... New feature? QCI Investigates... and another reason to post the video again... you be the judge.

Vroom vroom party starter! See you all in a while...

QCI's The Main Event LIVE: 2010 Reagan Dinner

2010-09-16T18:49:00.004-05:00

Hey there, ho there, hi there.

You're favorite (smirk) blog for all things politics and junior high humor is gonna be covering the 2010 Reagan Dinner... Press Pass suckas!!!

I've said this before, I love these events. Seeing old friends and getting the low down... it's awesome.

Here's a few things I'm looking at tomorrow.

PALIN'S BIG STEP - Yeah, this is a big step for her. There has been a lot of interesting reads on this. Go over to the Bean Walker and check the article from the Daily Beast. It will be interesting to see the reaction... the expectations... this whole O'Donnell thing.... her new feud with Karl Rove. This is an important stop.
FIRED UP - Hearing all sorts of stories from the field. The Party is pumped... and don't let any snarky Tweets from the otherside tell you different. We gotta come up with some sort of gauge for this... you know like they do with sound and stuff... It's be like "Instant Replay" for political pundits.
STOP AND SAY HELLO - Dudes, stop over and say hey. Wanna hear your takes. Your stories... what you're hearing. I'll post it up here. How about that?! You can be famous to the 10 people who read this! (Hi Grandma!)
WILL THE BUCKET BE BACK - May have to bust out the ole QCI Cheese Ball Question Bucket.... you got some questions to be asked? Email em to grantyoung72@hotmail.com or use and abuse the comment section provided (at no cost to you) at the bottom of this post... because I'm good like that. I'm a hugger and a giver.
TWEET TWEET FREAKING TWEET!!!! If you are super cool and lurk in the land of Twittersburgh, follow me up. Will be live tweets and such. you can lick on this link here. If you digs it, holler back with some Retweetage.

Oh and another cool thing for you all...

OFFICIAL (ISH) POST REAGAN DINNER BASH - After the Shin Dig... how about we continue the awesome, eh? Oh yeah... at the somewhat World Famous Flanagan's... on MLK and Ingersoll. Come chat it up... your post game thoughts and all that stuff... also, you could even buy me an ice cold Miller Lite! How cool would that be? I know, super aweso... nah, epic.

AND FINALLY... Get your groove going a bit... I say this often... but I'm as serious as a dry keg 4 hours before kickoff... do yourself and favor... crank this up and dance sucka, DANCE! See you you all at the thinger and always... always stay thirsty my friends....

Weekend Update

2010-09-12T16:52:00.003-05:00

Oh look I busted out the ole header... (one of my favorites)... Let's do this... que the music...

We are now officially in Epic Fall... The Hawkeyes putting a Hayden Fry whooping on Saturday and the NFL has started. Pardon me for the smile from ear to ear. Also... are you ready for a for a big week politically? Holy smokes. Let's do a random rundown.

HARKIN STEAK FRY - We start the week with Harkin's annual shindig. Axelrod and some other dude were talking today. But the news out of Indianola is... Culver/Judge aren't sorry at all for their record. I think. Earlier we were told by Governor Culver that he has made mistakes... and we were spinned this apology thing all week. Now... Patty Judge just said, "I make no apologies for our record." Really?
SPEAKING OF THEIR AD - So... the thing is called "Give Us A Chance" or something like that. Hmmm.... Imma gonna go Philly 2000 style on you Governor Culver... "You had your chance, you did not lead, we will." Also Gov, not sure I wanna remind voters that you "grown with the job" when your opponent is... you know... a guy who... ya know... did it for 16 years...
CULVER COMEBACK? Yeah right... If you read the DMR this morning they are ready waiting and hoping to write this story. The "turning point for Culver" they are saying. Child please. When he let the Branstad campaign go the entire summer going unanswered. That's where he lost this. Plus... he's gonna win on stem cells? Really? you know you're in trouble when you touting issues that basically shore up you base... doing this after Labor Day seems right... um, no it doesn't.
SENSITIVE MUCH - So I'm a little late to the party on this one... but after the "Big Bad Debt" ad... Culver's first thing is to challenge TEB for a triathlon? Really? Listen, I'm not even one f the types who say they whole "Chet is fat" bit. It doesn nothing for the debate... and it's stupid. Just ask Gov Christie about it when he's here soon. But the thing that got me... is that was the first thing Team Culver went with... what's next? Claiming there's floating crosses in TEB's ads? Arm wrestling matches? Alright... if we're gonna go with this... and this is what the campaign is really about.... I'm challenging Governor Culver to a grilled cheese eating contest. Because that's what the folks in the unemployment line in this state really want... oh wait.
DEBATE - So... the expectation game is building... I mentioned the DMR thing already... this is gonna be high noon for Culver... if he even had one left. From emails forwarded to QCI HQ points to all signs they're going all out to pack the place.
PALIN IN TOWN - Iowa becomes a part of the circus again... with Sarah Palin coming for the Reagan Dinner. Lots of national types will be coming to cover this one. Of course... we'l be there to take in the things... can you say Live Tweet? Oh yeah. Should be epic.

AND FINALLY... I got more coming this week. Until then... here's a happy little catchy tune. Stay thirsty my friends.

Eggs, Trains, Hawks and Law Nuts

2010-09-08T08:52:00.004-05:00

Long time no talk.

I know, when I don't post, puppies die. It's a lot of pressure. Just kidding, nothing really has been trippping my trigger to post... you know... when it's not being said by the others in the LBC.

Anyways... here's a random round out of things... that tripped the trigger.

BAD EGGS - Alright, dudes, I love eggs. They are so awesome. But no dirt bag freaking farmer from Wright errrr DeCoster County is gonna stop me from eating them. Also... anyone see that the Sierra Club wants an investigation on these farms now? What?! You don't say. Hey Sierra Club... good to see you're wearing acid wash jeans... because you're a little behind. Sierra Club, congrats you #fail. Oh and Uncle Clint, don't eat all of the deviled eggs. OK, good.
RIDE THAT CHOO CHOO, WOO WOO - OK... so I see that the powers that be in the DeMo are pushing the train thang. Is it me or is everyone in the economic developement community are slobbering over trains? And why? Really? I'm still waiting for my flying car. All this talk is giving me flashbacks of the Springfield Monorail episode on the Simpsons. Sigh...
LAW STUDENTS AND GRADS FREAK OUT - Alright... so the whole judge thing brought Sandra Day O'Connor to the DeMo... and if you take a quick skim of the Book of Faces... the Law School types are so hyped (+1), they need to change their shorts. Stickyish? Part of me says... BFD. But then upon further review... I might react the same way if Lars Ulrich showed up to speak at Darrell Kearney's Breakfast Club... so... maybe I kinda get it. Heavy on the kinda.

QCI FACEBOOK STATUS OF THE DAY

"So and so... Breakfast Club was at I-Hop this morning. I had the Rooty Tooty Fresh and Fruity. Big mistake. Now i have Assy Gassy Stained and Nasty".

I will not have what that dude is having...

IOWA CITY CRACK DOWN - Alright... so the U of I is cracking down on drinking... tailgating and all that stuff that comes along with Hawkeye Football. Now, we all know the every game is sold out this season... they are making some coin on Hawk Fever. But here's a little cautionary tip to the University of Iowa and its athletic department. OK, so I get it... you hate the reputation of being a party school. That's fine. Create all the tailgating rules you want. Remember... all things are cyclical... and someday (and it pains me to say this)... the Hawkeyes will suck again. And its gonna be tough to sell those tickets. Don't try to take out all of the fun that comes with gameday when there won't be anything else to cheer about. I'm just saying.
SPEAKING OF IOWA GAMEDAY - So DesMoinesDem over at Bleeding Heartland tried to make some really freaking lame dig at our boy and loyal reader over the weekend in Twittersburgh. It was one of the most #epicfails in a while... nah, history. Seriously... this is what I don't get about you people... who the hell is watching anything else than football on weekends in the Fall? Who cares what else is going on in the world when Ricky Stanzi is laying on the ground injured? You people are heartless! Also, thumbs up to the U of I Student section for chanting USA when The Manzi marched back on the field. Love it or leave it.
MORE IOWA GAMEDAY - I've said it once... and I'm sure I'll be saying it again. Do not ask me to do anything on Iowa/Iowa State weekend... or anyone else for that matter. "Not everyone watches the game Grant." Child please. It's our state's Super Bowl. And if you still don't believe me... good luck trying to get attention for anything that day. C'mon son!
MORE HAWKEYE FOOTBALL - So the Big Ten announced the new divisions for 2011... and they now have the "rival game" on each school's schedule. Purdue? Really? I'm going to have shirts made next year that reads, "Um, I guess... I really really really freaking hate Purdue." But here's the real question. How can the Big Ten have "mandatory rival games" when just about every week in the Big Ten is a rivalry? Again, I'm just saying.
SPEAKING OF MORE EPIC FAILS - Leonard Boswell's campaign is on life support. Question is when will the DCCC pull the plug? Can't wait for Election Day on this one. When Zaun wins, I'll bet 50 bucks Leonard doesn't call to concede. Why do I say that? Because that's about as classless as the IDP YouTube put up for this race. I get that a hit is a hit... but if this is all you got... all I'm saying is... I look forward to hearing "Congressman Brad Zaun" used in sentences.

AND FINALLY... Just chill... until the next episode. Stay thirsty my friends.

Answering the REAL important questions of the day

2010-08-27T14:33:00.004-05:00

I can't believe I haven't said anything about this earlier, my bad. Anyways... a few weeks back I made the trek up to South Dakota for my cousin Angie's wedding. Side note: man oh man is that a long drive. Good times had by all, just like we always do in my family....

BUT, along the way I found out the answer to a very important question that was asked about 8 years ago...

"So they serve hamburgers at Taco Johns?"

On my way to South Dakota... I stopped at the Taco John "Mexpress" (epic) in Rockwell City... and I got the answer.

Hamburgers, no. Taco Burgers, yes. So technically they do serve burgers. Ending a long debate.

So there you have it.

Yes. Yes, they do serve burgers at Taco Johns.

And the Earth is a better place for it.

The Epic Battle for Surpremacy in God's County

2010-08-26T15:22:00.008-05:00

A little break from politics here... because back in God's Country, it's opening week of football. And who do the Mighty Hawks start with? Those red and black clad derelicts from south of the Hamilton County line. Yes... the Iowa/Iowa State, the Celtics/Lakers, the Duke/UNC... Good/Evil... the epic rivalry of small town Central Iowa High School athletics...

The South Hamilton/Roland-Story Game.

All kidding and name calling aside... it is one of the best rivalries in Iowa. You think it is foolish to keep holding on to old high school rivalries?

You just ask any fella whoever wore one of those glorious symbols of freedom, a jersey that is red and white with "HAWKS" on the front. Ask any fella who has worn those dreadful dingy black with red trimmed jerseys with horned barbarians on their sleeves (*smirk*).

If you grew up with a Roland, Story City, Jewell, Ellsworth, Randall or Stanhope address... this is a big deal. You never, ever forget the South Hamilton/Roland-Story game. It's the first game you circle once the schedule is out. Bragging rights for an entire year and pride are on the line. No matter who's up or down, it's always a great game.

The Ames Trib has a good preview. Check it out here.

Last year, the Mighty Hawks had methodical drive that was sure to make many in Story City lose their lutefisk that night. Are we in for a wild finish this year? You betcha. The good guys have to travel to Story City... where South Hammies do not need to be reminded... they aren't so good at telling time in Scanda-cheat-ya. Yes, the decks will be stacked against Coach Coy's Warriors for Truth, Justice and the American Way.

I have faith.

I have faith that the honorable men in white will "fight through the night," defeat evil and "will bring home a victory."

GO HAWKS! BEAT STORY!

Stay thirsty my friends.

How many days?

2010-08-25T09:00:00.004-05:00

How many days until the election? Hmmm… how many? Oh. Oh yes. There’s 69 days until Election Day. *heavy heavy smirk* Just a quick hit here… oh don’t you worry, there are scores of more things to chirp about.

ABOUT LAST NIGHT - Man, late primaries may be a little foreign to us… but, how awesome are they? For me, watching other state’s primary election returns are like watching game 7 of a playoff series with 3 games all. I did tell you I’m a county supervisor for Dork County, right? Last night we got a little taste or maybe a little bit of political junkie fix with 5 state’s primary elections. John McCain won the nomination comfortably after a stiff fight… and we had ourselves a good ole street brawl in all sorts of races in Florida. Some mixed bags out there on what happened… But one thing is showing up and look for it here locally… because this will be the formula as we’ve already seen in the 3rd Congressional District.

Here’s the game plan for anyone "in trouble" to paraphrase Tim Russert: Go negative, go negative, go negative.

Look at the McCain race in Arizona, look at the Murkowski race in Alaska. Which one went negative? Which one didn’t? Which one won? Better stock up on brown paper bags on this Fall’s election. Because this is good she’s gonna look, if you catch my drift.

STATE VS FEDERAL - During all of the coverage yesterday, Politico’s Jonathan Martin had a tweet than rang some sense when it comes to campaigns in any state.

“FL great example of chasm btwn what folks in dc care about (Sen) and what pol class in state cares about (Gov)”

Let me translate for those not in Twittersburgh…. He is saying something like Florida is a great example of what DC/National peeps care about (US Senate and US House) versus what the political class in the state cares about (Governor, Legislature). This isn’t the only truth in Florida, but I argue every state in the union. It couldn’t be true here in our home state, but we being Iowa… always can have a twist on it. And why is that you ask? Let’s break it down.

State races will always out Trump and Federal race. Think about it. JMart talks about the political class in state, who’s that? Lobbyists and their associations… Elected officials and their constituencies… Political parties and their members… Big business owners and Unions…. so on and so on. It’s pretty simple. Where’s most of the political and monetary influence in Iowa? The Stateside. This is where they get their meal ticket and influence. It’s not rocket science.

Just thought that was a good take that’s not said enough. What do you think? While you chirp in the comment section... Get out of you chair and show off your epic moves to a littleTerence Trent D'Arby... Stay thirsty my firends.

50,000 or something like that

2010-08-24T19:00:00.006-05:00

If you're gonna celebrate something, why not with the Buckinghams? Makes sense to me.

So... yeah. By the time you all get here... I think I might have already passed 50,000 unique visitors or whatever the hell the thing at the bottom means. It's weird, never thought there would be something worth 50,000 people taking a look... but I guess so.

You make it this far... it's kind of a big deal. So, I should give some shout outs... in no particular order of course....

QCI-DERS - Aka... my loyal readers. Thanks for putting up with this very horrible usage of technology and the English language. I appreciate the feed back, good thoughts and encouragement along the way. it means a lot to me.

HATERS - Yups, talking to you peeps who hate it up in the inbox. It's all good. It's means you're reading. Thanks dudes... haters make you stronger.

CAMPAIGNS - Yeah... how many of you are dumb enough to add me to your press list and actually give me a seat at your events... OK, you're not so dumb... actually pretty cool. Thanks for reaching out.

AL GORE - Dude, thanks for creating these interwebs. Off the chain, dude. Off the chain.

PROPS TO MY TWEEPS - Yeah, I'm talking to you Twitter stalkers. You guys rule too.

GUEST/GHOST WRITERS - Man... especially the kids who knock out the "Gameday" posts. They out did themselves as always. They are always contributing to a story... or make a joke that usually makes it way here. These creepos are so creative and make soda come out your nose... especially when you are collaborating. Just awesome.

PEEPS WHO PROVIDE LINKAGE - There have been a ton of peeps who have linked this garbage a time or two. Thanks. You linking me up means you thought it might be worth wasting other people's time.

There are a bunch of other who I know are going to email me and be all pissy that I forgot to thank them... all I can say is. Sorry. Not that I'm sorry that I'm awesome... but I'm sorry you're awesome too. Can we be friends?

So yeah... what will bring the next 50,000 hits? Not sure.... will it make it that long? Your guess is as good as mine. As long as I'm having fun doing this... and as long as people are reading... sure. When that stops... I'll be done. End of story.

Not that I'm planning on going anywhere for a while. So stop that stinkin' thinkin'.

How about doing something in honor of our 50,000 hits? How something from the 5 Stairsteps?

Do your self a favor and crank this.... move it and groove it... and as always... stay thirsty my friends.

The Big Upset you're not reading about... yet.

2010-08-18T10:14:00.009-05:00

Things are finally starting to get interesting around here. One of my very favorite things about politics is the people. Old friends, chairs, former colleagues… it’s the best thing about politics. Lately, I've been hearing from some folks and been studying some things with my view in the cheap seats. Good ole Leonard Boswell. I have had my run ins with him over the years. And I gotta tell ya, he's a great guy and nice fella. It’s true. This is why he’s been so successful in all of his tough elections.

Every cycle, we’re told how Boswell is in trouble. He usually is, but that’s just because of the district make up and his voting record. Nothing new here if you been following him since he won Jim Ross Lightfoot’s seat in Congress in 1996. Cycle after cycle we are pushed to believe this hype. In 2010, this hype is real. Leonard Boswell is in trouble. Deep deep trouble. The 3rd Congressional District has been the bell weather for the past few cycles. Finally this year, no storm shelter is sturdy enough in Boswell’s case.

ENTER ZAUN – We may have the perfect candidate, Brad Zaun. Look at the stats. Well liked, hard worker… good record and experience. But the key here is he knows everyone in Polk County, all thanks to his tough State Senate race a while back. Most Central Iowa voters (code for Polk County) know his name just from the television blitz that was ran. How do you think he won the primary? Name ID. There are people in Altoona who probably think they have voted for him in the past… just because of his name ID.

POLLS – I remember everyone being so surprised Brad won with a large margin in the primary. Didn’t anyone see the first poll in that race? That huge lead he had? Why are we surprised? It is the next poll that raised eyebrows, the post primary poll that showed Zaun up 10. Sending sonic booms over on Fleur Drive. A few weeks a go… another poll was released, showing similar results. You can argue and dispute polls until you’re blue in the face... but friends, this creates the trend. Also, has the other side disputed this trend? I think I hear crickets.

BOSWELL AD – Leonard’s campaigns have always been well put together. Disciplined and steady. But I’m not seeing this or hearing this in the 2010 version. You don’t have to look further than his first radio ad released. What happened to the ad that plays every 2 years that reminds us that he used to fly helicopters in the Army? If you needed to learn anything about how well Brad Zaun is doing… it’s this ad. For the first time that I can remember, Leonard Boswell has started a re-election campaign with an attack ad. Not from the DCCC, from his pocket. What is more surprising… the ad is a complete swing and a miss.

Oh, you think I jest? The main part of the hit is that he’s against renewable fuels. And Team Boswell was sneaky enough to have audio of Zaun making a statement. Well, at least the ad was done well. But other than that it’s a swing and a miss… mostly on the issue they choose to hit.

YEAH I KNOW IT’S IOWA – Yes, renewable fuels, ethanol and all that jazz is important here. I don't believe this translates into an effective attack on Zaun. Think about it. What county dominates the 3rd? How many of these people in this county does a renewable fuels impact? The reason why this is a swing and a miss is because this issue gets lost in translation. Only in the 11 rural counties does this make an impact and the majority of these areas are good for us anyway.

I’ll argue that the ethanol, renewable fuels stuff gets a little over played here. Now before Monte Shaw starts blowing up my phone, yes this is a big deal for Iowa. You don’t have to sell it to me. My family depends on this industry. What I’m saying is… it’s a little over used and was used poorly in the first attack on his challenger. If this is the best issue they have to start with… he is in trouble.

It’s a weak hit and not characteristic of a Boswell Campaign.

WHY BRAD ZAUN IS GOING TO WIN – In all campaigns, you always have to lay out lists of strengths and weaknesses. In a good race, someone figures out how to do the things better their opponent. And usually figures out how to do things better at the very same thing their opponent is the strongest. But default, because who he is… Brad Zaun is beating Leonard Boswell at his own game.

Why does Leonard always win? People like him. It’s true. I like the guy. If you happen to catch him grocery shopping at IngerDahls, you witness it. He’s friendly and polite. Doesn’t ruffle too many feathers when he votes. He’s your Grandpa. This is why he does well all the time.

Usually, his campaign and the DCCC will create a narrative and make his opponents, bad guys. It’s true. Stop your fibbin’ sound familiar? That punk kid attorney from Des Moines… the Rich Kid with silver spoon? Remember all of these? A strategy that creates him is the nice guy and gives reasons to dislike the opponent.

Creating some argument to create Brad as a bad person or some bad label simply won’t stick. He knows everyone. People know him… and they like him. When you run into Brad Zaun, even if you disagree with him on an issue, you can’t help to just to not like the guy. He’s genuine with his answers, always energetic and will tell you what he thinks. Just a straight up fun and great guy.

By Brad, being Brad… he is beating Leonard Boswell on his own schtick. You think this is an over simplification of why Brad is winning? You can hear me now and believe me later. The only way Boswell is going to make a dent… is to be what he’s not. A jerk and a junkyard dog. This is the only move he has left. Once this happens… not only is this going to sink Boswell… the bad news is… because National Democrats will become so desperate to keep this seat.. or any seat for that matter... they will destroy a reputation of one of their own. A decent man.

Good news is… its August. It’s too late. I’m not sure why hits weren’t coming in the middle of June. This is the same reason why Culver’s apology at the fair is late. Timing is everything… good thing they must be out of batteries for their clocks over on Fleur Drive.

I John Kerry'd on the State Fair...

2010-08-17T10:42:00.004-05:00

OK... I so a lot of things have changed since I posted last. My good pal Wes convinced me that I should give the State Fair a... "fair shake"... oh look, I punned. Anyways, I took him up on it. This is when I had my Green Eggs and Ham moment with the Fair... here's how it goes down.

Hey! Let's go to the Fair!

We shall drink beers and have loads of fun!
You in for the Eastside? C'mon son!

I don't like the State Fair, Wes,
I hate the State Fair, Wes-I-am.
When I went, I always had to work,
I'd get way too hot wearing a button down shirt.

Working numerous days I did not enjoy,
Spending too much money on food, oh boy!
I would get overheated in the sun,
Working there numerous days was not so much fun.

They would ask, hey, is this pen was for free?
I'd say No! No! You leave me be.
I'd listen to Clifford singing over and over again,
My mind would scream, Lord, please make this end!

I so dislike the Fair, my friend Wes,
I would rather go out in a poke-a-dot dress.

I would not go there if BB King were singin the blues,
I would not go there escorted with Elizabeth Shue.
I will not go for the food of the Fair,
I would not go to see the '85 Bears.
I will not go there on a fast jet,
I would not go there to see George Brett.
I will not go there to scope out hot chicks,
I do not care about your pork chops on a stick.
I will not roll to the Eastside,
I will not go even if you drive.
I will not go there even if you can smoke,
I will not go there to see the Pope!
I will not go there to rock out to '80s bands,
I would not go there with hundreds of dollars in my hand.
I so much dislike the Fair, so much this is clear,
I will not, would not go if they had free beer.

I do not like the Iowa State Fair!

I do not like it, Wes-I-Am.

You hate the State Fair, so you say,
You're not working it now, so try, try it if you may.
You might like it and all the libations,
You will like it with zero work obligations.

Wes, I don't know,
With all the food and all the shows.
It may be a wash, I don't know,
It’s been a while since I had to go.

I don't have to work it and this is true,
I still find it hard to believe you.

I find it hard to believe you, Wes-I-Am.

You will like it, these are your people,
This is your Church with the things and the steeple.
We shall go tonight and it will be fun,
Cold beer, fried food and much less sun.

Wes-I-Am, if I go and don't like it, will that be fine?
I don’t like it but it sounds like a good time.

OK.

So I will take you up on this trek,
Can’t promise I’ll like it, I won’t make any bets.

Wes-I-Am?

Yes.

I just saw 7 people wearing Metallica shirts,
Wait, hear those cars racing in the dirt?
I’m starting to see why there is so much fuss,
Dude, check out the pig with the ginormous nuts.

I’m having a good time, Wes-I-Am!
I’m even rocking out to the Buckinghams!
It’s much more much fun when you don’t have to work,
No dealing with the freeloaders and loud mouth jerks.

I ate two things of cheese curds and didn’t get sick,
I ate six! Six pork chops on stick!
Dude in a mullet, man that’s some sweet hair,
Wes, I’m think I’m starting to like the State Fair.

I do!

I like the Iowa State Fair!

And I would go, could go during a storm,
I would go could go if it was a little warm.
I will get my Hawkeye poster and do the carnie rides,
How could I have doubted fun on the Eastside!
I will go would there even with tobacco to chew,
I could only hope I could go with Elizabeth Shue.
I would go to the Fair on any chance,
I would go there in my Nantucket Red pants.
I would go to see all the animals and critters,
I would go and eat two or three more pork fritters!
I would go could go everyday,
I’d even consider going there with John Elway.
How could I hate this with so many blinders?
How could I dislike anything that serves guinea grinders?
I have to admit Wes, the State Fair is great,
I’ll even drink the big beers for dollars of eight!
The mix of the crowd is so eclectic,
The State Fair is do I dare say, epic.

Wes-I-am, you are a good friend,
Fun like the Fair should never end.
You changed my mind, I changed my stand,
Thank you, Thank you, Wes-I-Am.

The State Fair started... I hate it, I think...

2010-08-12T11:32:00.008-05:00

Jeez Lousie... you say one bad Tweet about the State Fair and it's like I said something bad about someone's mother. I know... I'm weird, but I think I can explain... and maybe ther is hope for me that will please the State Fair maniacs.

PEOPLE FREAK OUT - When I tell them this. As a loyal reader told me, "Crappy food, booze, politicians, John Deere, live tunes. What's not to love?" I reply back with, "I hate the Fair." Then the loyal reader says, "I think I'm sad to hear you say that. It breaks a little piece of my heart. The happiest guy around, hates the Fair." That hit a little home for me. Yeah man, the Fair should totally be my schtick. I mean all of the stuff mentioned above. It's on the Eastside. I used to have a mullet. This would seem like a G$ paradise. But... after thinking about it. I figured out why I hate the fair.

STUPID POLITICS - Urgh... so... like for 10 years or so... I had to work the GOP booth. And a lot of times... multiple days. It's too much. This is what broke me on the fair. Listen, working a shift, one shift is great. But numerous days... and people wanting free shit... here's where I lose it...

Random Mooch: Hey, is this pen free, bud?
Me: No, numb nuts. I'm using it to register you and others to vote.
Random Mooch: Awe man... Now I'm not voting for you now.
Me: Really, because you didn't get a free pen?
Random Mooch: Yea, bud. Everything else is free.
Me: Oh well, uh... I hear they're testing tack hammers around the corner. They're giving away free hits in the head.
Random Mooch: Cool, bud. I'll check it out. Thanks, bud!
Me: Sigh....

Yeah. Adds to the hate. Every year I'd work it... I would have a buddy call, "Hey man! Hitting the Bud Tent around 6, you in?" I'll be like, "Sure, that's when my shift is done. In." Then 6 rolls around. I just go home. Yes. I skipped out on beer. I know. Disturbing. But... seriously. Too burnt out on the Fair for beer. See, told you. Not good.

MORE STUFF I DISLIKE - On top of the just working... it's usually hot. I got sick from being to hot there a time or two. Yes. Drink more water, got it. I'm a cold weather guy I guess. Then... stuff is expensive. Especially when you're there multiple days... to work it. I know, these are small bitches... but just adds to it.

STUFF I DO LIKE - I guess hate is too strong of a word. I mean... the food is awesome... the beer, always ice cold. I used to set a corn dog and pork chop budget. And I totally had a great time at the Journey concert way back when. I alwaysscore decent Hawkeye gear and posters from the U of I booth. So there are things I like.

I HAVE SOMETHING SHOCKING TO ADMIT - So many of you know. I kind of have a street cred on knowing stuff around here. I can name every county and their county seat. Tell you the good small town joints and bars to hit. Places you must see. But, I'll admit. Never seen the Butter Cow... you know... and the other must see things. I have seen the big pig with the huge menards... I bet he has a very high self esteem with thems things. So yea... I guess... I've never really done the Fair.

MAYBE THERE IS HOPE FOR ME AND THE FAIR - I have taken a break from the Fair since leaving politics. I just don't go... and I say I hate it. It's a very childish notion. It's like when I used to not eat mushrooms... and said I hate them. Simply because I never tried them. Maybe... just maybe I should just go to the Fair. Give it a legit shot. I mean... there's all sorts of G$-ish things that I would dig... I don't have to work it... I may even enjoy it. I mean... one of my favorite oldies bands is playing it this year... the Buckinghams... so maybe...

Hmm.... Maybe this could be my very own Sam I Am moment...

Alright. I will give it a shot. I'm going to do the Fair. But I need experienced peeps help. Seriously guys, I've never done the thing. Just worked. Who want's to go with me? Who has the tips of things I gotta hit?

Hit up the comment section... and stay thirsty my friends.

Flood Coverage via the Book of Faces

2010-08-11T10:15:00.007-05:00

For you non locals and non ISU peeps, this is Stange Ave in Ames. Photo ripped off from Swany's Facebook Mobile Uploads this morning.

Hearing some disturbingly familiar news coming out of Ames this morning. Please send some good vibes up North and everyone else dealing with this mess. I got tons of family and friends up there. From a few updates from them. All seem to be alright. Just too soggy and can't get around town so well. But everyone is safe.

As I said, the pictures from Ames are familiar to what happened in 1993. Kind of freaky, but last week I was just looking at the line in the Scheman Building of where the water levels were in '93. My guess is its about there right now.

If there is anything to call "cool" at times like these compared to '93, is there are hundreds of reports on the floods via social media. Here's what a few of my peeps are saying about Ames and other flooding via Facebook statuses this morning...

"Yes that's 9.10 inches of rain in the last 24 hours folks."

"I've begun rationing Sun Chips...just in case..."

"Good think I have a Kayak! I may need it!"

"Rain washes out practice at the Jewell Golf course--will be practicing at the high school today (10:00) and Friday (9:00)--swimming is good exercise but not on a cross country course. Can it rain anymore around here--need some dry time!"

"spent the morning on a date with a wet vac in the basement"

"Any suggestions on how to get to Des Moines today? Might be an adventure."

"Giving a shout out to my sump pumps today as I watched all of my neighbors pumping water out of their basements"

"Prayers to the MANY people who are flooded, stuck because of the flood or are just trying to get home and aren't able...prayers for dry days and a quick and painless clean up. You can always by more things...but you can't replace the people you love...stay safe!"

"Beer trucks pulled from Ames today. I guess that is a good indication of how bad it is up there."

"And I-35 south of Ames is now closed, just peachy."

"too bad i live in north ames and was able to make it to work today"

"Seems like Armageddon around here...all major roads are closed around Ames and people are freaking out; yelling, screaming and honking at others on the road. Seems the only feasible means of transportation is on our bike. Couldn't even make it to daycare as all roads leading to are closed."

"Keeping everyone affected by the floods in our thoughts, especially those up in Ames."

"So and so called me and told me Des Moines better brace for more water. Lots of flooding up north and the Raccoon River is higher than he's ever seen it...and he's been around that river his entire life!"

"OK, so they have revised the forcasted crest down to 19.5' instead of 23'...still a mess, but not quite epic! I've now been up for almost 28 hours....time to shower and get some sleep...and then still golf tonight :)"

"Here's hoping that folks down home in Osky, Eddyville, and Cedar/Fremont can dry out today!"

Hope everyone is doing alright. Keep sending good vibes to those who need them. Just a quick thought that hit me while reading these this morning... per usual here... in the face of disasters, Iowans are as cool as the other side of the pillow. Bringing some humor to the situation, thoughts/prayers to those in need... and just dealing with it. Because that's how we roll in the literal Midwest Coast.

The Best Haircut of my Life

2010-08-10T11:08:00.005-05:00

It's been about a year friends. Since I had the best haircut of my life. The Mullet. It was... everything that defined the term... epic.

Today is a day of reflection for me.

I mean... it took the better part of a year to grow it. That was the rough part. For those who know me real well... I'm not a very patient man. Sure I'm as happy go lucky as the next dude... but patience is not a virtue for me. Personally, I was surprised I hung with it... as long as I did.

It sure was a great haircut. I mean... look at the picture above. Look how it just flows right out of a hat. That coupled with mean ass facial hair? It's an effing solid look.

I miss it.

From the times when friends would say, "Hey, what's with your hair?" And the high fives that would follow when I replied, "I'm growing a Mullet, dude." Or bumping in to pals and people I deal with on a day to day basis... "Hey G$, that Mullet sure is startin' to look, really nice!"

One thing I learned one year ago is what this haircut's capabilities were. I mean.... Dudes... You could bring Peace with this thing... Bring some joy to this World. I'd run into someone, having a bad day... and then they would see my magnificent mane and be like, "Dude's rocking a mullet. Everything is gonna be alright. Everything is gonna be alright."

I never get into fights while I'm out and about. I'm a lover, not a hater. But once I rocked a mullet? I was stopping bar fights. This is when I knew...

Met up after work with some good pals. Out west at some suburban joint... We just sat down to grab a beverage... and basically WCW Monday Nitro was about to happen over by the pool table. You know how these things start. Probably some guy was talking to some dude's girl... and that don't work good a lot of times in those parts.

Choice words were exchanged. The pushing and shoving began... then the dudes were grabbing bar stools. This is when the Mullet took over. I snapped. I was like hell nah. I was out to watch a game and hang with my pals. I wasn't about to have cage match interrupt my evening or anyone else's.

I walked up to the dudes and yelled, "DUDES!" Joint went completely silent. I had their attention. Via the power of the mullet... the next words just flowed out of my mouth, "Hug it out, bitches."

My friends thought I was nuts. But I was starting to learn the power. The dudes who were ready to go Dusty Rhodes on each other's asses... looked at me... first with death glares... then they saw the hair... those glares turned to a look of shame as they looked at the ground. After a 10 seconds of silence later... One of them spoke up in a raspy voice, "The dude in the sweet hair is right. Can I buy you a beer, buds?" They hugged it out and shook hands.

I just looked at them, nodded my head and said, "This is good." And walked back across the joint to our table... that's when "Back in Black" cranked up on the jukebox... the good times rolled on.

There are witnesses. This is a true story.

I'm telling you guys. This was a regular occurrence when I had the mullet. Bringing awesome to everywhere I went. How couldn't you? When you are rocking the most important haircut in our Nation's history... you just do it.

One year ago... the business on top and party in the back was a special time for me. I think back today... remembering... thinking... and smiling. That was some pretty sweet hair if I do say so myself. In my day of reflection... I will always remember.... It was a great time.... the time of my life... errr... the best haircut of my life. Someone que the Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes. Stay thirsty my friends.

What'd You Do This Weekend?

2010-08-09T11:42:00.005-05:00

Hell yes QCI-ders! What a weekend! It was probably the first weekend in a while where I had no real responsibilities. Meaning… didn’t have to be places for work or important family functions. Just a little weekend full of just fun.

GOOD FRIENDS, GOOD TIMES – So hung with my pals this weekend. It was like we were all 19 or something again. And… it was the first time I’ve attended a good ole fashioned kegger. Well… not traditional in a sense. We’re all old and stuff now. But here’s how Saturday starts with a phone call from a great pal mine.

[cell phone buzzes]

ME: What up?
MY BUDDY: [sings epic riff] Master! Master!
ME: [singing] Oh yeahh… KILL!
MY BUDDY: [sings epic riff from One]
ME: What up Homey Jomey from Wyoming?
MY BUDDY: Hey Money... Guess what I just bought?
ME: Special vinyl edition of Metallica?
MY BUDDY: Nah man, its aluminum. It has a pump. And it shines.
ME: Dude… for real?
MY BUDDY: [signing opening riff for Harvester of Sorrow]
ME: [singing] du dawh du du dut… dut dawh du dut dut….. ALL HAVE said their prayers! INVADE their nightmares!
MY BUDDY: HA HAWWWW YEAH!!!!
ME: Shut the front door!
MY BUDDY: I don’t joke about things like this.
ME: Dude, you tap it yet?
MY BUDDY: Dude, why do you think I’m calling you?
ME: Dude…
MY BUDDY: In?
ME: You had me at hello.

So it was on. And yes… per my pal’s wife… She was like, “He was like a kid in candy store when we picked up.”

WHY KEGS OF BEER ARE EPIC – We gather out west at my buddies house. Keg is tapped and then… showing our age… we begin to talk about the last kegger we attended. Because we are old… it seemed like ages ago. Then an epic discussion about kegs begins. The street cred you get when buy a keg. Especially when you’re in a suburban super market and all the other dudes are holding their wife/girlfriend’s purse… you just go to the customer service counter and say it… and of course, because you’re a bad ass…you say it a little bit louder so that many can hear you…

“Excuse me. I would like a keg of beer.”

You hear the other dudes at the store whisper under their breath…

“Hell yes.” “Bas ass.” “Man, I wish I could buy a keg of beer.” “Lucky.” “Hmmm keg.”

As we are yaking it up in the backyard. Playing some bags and washers… my pal comes up with the brilliant thought of what a keg can do to your day.

“Dude, there’s just something about it. When you’re at the store… The dude from the liquor department takes you to the back. Then wheels your keg through the store. Everyone notices you. Then he wheels it all the way out to your car. You just feel important. There’s a satisfaction you show to your fellow man. Yes dudes, I just bought a keg of beer.”

My buddy puts things in ways so that I can understand them.

THE GREAT KEG DEBATE – Of course… this always happens. How many beers are in a keg? What’s funny no one knows the true answer. There’s many different factors if you are trying to be accurate about it. Foam. What kind of cups. House Cups. Spillage. Keg stands. Topping it off. So many things. It’s like when you ask the owl how many licks does it take to get to the center of aTootsie Pop… the world may never know.

MAN UP – After long discussions… then there comes the taking it back part. What if you still have beer in it the next day? Do you have a Hair of the Dog gathering? Since we’re old we figure that’s usually out. Thus… you gotta kill the thing that night. Or else… creating a trail of tears in the morning… when you simply drain the rest in the yard. Because… of a couple of things.

1. There’s no way you’re gonna return a keg with a good amount still left.

2. There’s no way you’re gonna let the teenage punk at customer service give you the judgingly dirty look that you just returned a keg with beer still left in it.

Just like the sense of pride there is in the beginning… pride is on the line when you finish.

SO YEAH – We had a great time as always… and to rip off a bit from our pal Flyover Foodie… UNFORESEEN BONUS! When peeps ask you… “So what did you do this weekend?” You get the awesomeness answer. “I went to a kegger. What’d you do?” The person will probably look at the ground and say, “Oh, I went to see Inception with the GF. It was cool.” Then… you gotta help make ‘em feel better. “Yeah man, I heard that was cool.” But secretly you know and they know… they have been defeated. Just remember to invite them along next time.

So yeah keggers are epic. Care to share some kegger memories? Leave a comment… and crank this! YEAAAAAAAH!!!!!! Stay thirsty my friends.

BREAKING NEWS: Vander Plaats will not return to the Cleveland Cavaliers

2010-08-06T10:13:00.005-05:00

Holy smokes! Welcome to all the new readers of the World's Crappiest Blog. You may wanna come back and check this joint out once in a while. Because... sometimes we actually have some decent things here... but you will find out a couple of things if you do indeed become a QCI-der:

1. I really, really, really suck at grammar and spelling. My only defense is that it sounded really good in my head. Sometimes I forget to tell my fingers how to type.
2. While we'll talk a lot of politics and we're considered an "insider's blog"... a lot of time we straight up get random. Be prepared for junior high toilet humor, Chiefs updates and other completely off subject randomnous. And yes, that is how I spell the word.

Cool? Alright... how about a quick run through. OK. Good.

MEHLMAN POST - Thanks for all of the feed back. If you didn't check it out yet, click here or simply scroll down to the next post. From some of your emails and texts yesterday, some of you tried to name names. Or get me to say who I think it is. I'm being honest with you. We don't know who it is. This thing will just happen. Also, thanks for the kind notes on it. And yes, that’s Luke Roth on the left end of the picture on the post. Miss that dude.

BOBBY V - Let's talk a little local stuff. So Bob Vander Plaats is back in the news today. He's not running for Governor. He got a new job. And like Krusty, I'll say it. That's what this was about from the very beginning. Call me James Hetfield or Lars Ulrich because it’s Sad But True.

TODAY’S GINORMOUS ANNOUNCEMENT – So judging by the media types’ tweets, this was breaking news. Let me sum up most of these tweets in 140 characters of my own:

“HOLY BALLS! BREAKING NEWS!! VANDER PLAATS ISN'T RUNNING INDY!!! WOW!!!! NOT ENDORSING!!!! WOW!!!!!! HOLY BALLS, I NEVER SAW THIS COMING!!!!”

I can’t see so well. Do I have the number 85 on my shirt today? Because I’m gonna say, child please. Seriously media peeps? This entire Bob Vander Plaats exercise has been more ridiculously served with a LeBron James “Decision” on whole wheat Brett Favre bun slopped up with a side of Terrell Owens. Would anyone like a tack hammer for their head? Yes, have some.

THE MARRIAGE THINGER - Alright, this is starting to spin in my head a bit. Ew… I hate the spinnys. Anyway, so now there is this campaign to throw out judges. I guess this is how you can do this? Hey you political hacks out there… how many times since you’ve been in politics have you had to answer the question about the judges on the back of the ballot? How many of you have a decent answer to explain that?

Good. Thought so. Me neither. Good luck trying to make this translation to the average Joe Six Pack who makes his decision on a candidate because… well, that was the last yard sign they saw on the way to the polls. YES!!! SEE!!! I TOLD YOU YARD SIGNS WIN ELECTIONS!!!! Especially when you’re starting this a whole 90 some odd days out from the election, NOICE! Everybody, let’s give them a round of applause. Golf clap? Golf clap.

EPIC MOVIE NEWS - Dudes... Did you see this?!!! JACKASS 3D!!!!! OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG!!!!! OH. MAH. GAWD!!! If you haven't seen the trailer for it yet.... YouTube... oh and you're welcome. How is this relevant today's post? Hmmm... not sure. I guess there's just something about watching a bunch of dudes doing mindless stunts that puts things right in my head. Thus, makes it in the list of things that matter. Dudes... did I mention its in 3D. *head explodes*

AND FINALLY… How about some hip hop that makes you nod ya head when yous holler attin yo boys. Cranka it tup suckers! Stay thirsty my friends.

Who will be the next Ken Mehlman?

2010-08-05T15:23:00.012-05:00

Here’s a post to start a little bit of debate and to get you all thinking about the future of the party… 2012 and beyond.

It’s August and this is Iowa. For the past week or so… politically, my brain has been in strategery over drive. It’s almost the 11th anniversary of the 1999 Ames Straw Poll. We’re gearing up for “the real general election.” It looks to be a good Republican year. I ‘ve been reading Karl Rove’s book. The “I might be a 2012 candidate” types are coming to the cornfields. Silently, these camps are forming. Lately, I’ve been hanging out and exchanging long phone calls/texts with my ole Bush pals. Then Politico had a great article on the “Top Gets for 2012.” Smooshing all of that together in my head… I came up with this question… Who is going to be the next Ken Mehlman?

THE MEHLMANIAN ERA – I think we are nearing the end this era as it comes to political operations in our party. Naturally, because of change and those who have been in this system are beginning to move on to consulting or the private sector. But like the many greats before Ken, he has left his impact. It’s safe to say that from here on out all campaigns (if they plan to be successful) will have many Mehlmanian aspects to them

What makes a campaign, Mehlmanian?

Working your ass off. Commitment to grassroots politics. Steely eyed focused targeting. Setting goals and measuring results. Comraderie and loyalty. A sense of service to the party and the candidates we work for. Oh… and having a lot of fun doing all of the above. As a former colleague put to me the other day, the Mehlman model is simply setting streamlined goals and keeping a microscopic eye on results. This wasn’t really a new idea in campaigns. But Ken and his crew took this to high level of demanding results for every single aspect of the campaign. Getting a campaign to stop doing things, just for doing them.

A good example was with some of the Coalitions efforts. In the past chairs and leaders were recruited for every coalition. Farmers and Ranchers, Sportsmen, Veterans… give ‘em titles and put out a release. But now, everyone in the organization had goals with specific action items that could be tracked with simple Microsoft Excel sheet formulas. Now, you were not only getting more out of the work you did, but you could see what was happening in a tangible way so the tweaks could be make to the program along the way... thus being more successful.

THE START OF THE NEW STANDARD - This era began in 1999 when Ken made it to Iowa as Regional Political Director for Bush for President. He basically moved here and definitely earned his honorary Iowan status. From the Team Leader Program… to targeted lists... and many successes. Ken became the standard. I got a front seat to watch, work and observe the beginning of an era that changed the game for political operatives - forever. He took a team with now many familiar names, Sara Taylor and Scott Stanzel just to start, and then the development off this era began.

The Bush Team Leader program, phone banks with specific targets and of course the first set of spreadsheets to measure our results… it was building. We won in Iowa and the first group of Mehlmanites swarmed the other primary states. All practicing the things we built in Iowa, at Ken’s direction, the program and the definition of a Mehlmanian Campaign was being written. George W. Bush became President of the United States and Mehlman would now bring this model to the RNC. The Mehlmanian style would be spread to every single state and produce historic results.

WHY KEN WAS SUCCESSFUL – If we are going to figure out who the next Mehlman is… let’s explain why he was so successful and why we need to find the next one. Ken is a leader, in all aspects. Here’s the “this goes without saying” part. Dude is brilliant. Always thinking. Working hard, but working smart. But, in my opinion, the thing that made him successful was his ability to connect with anyone he came in contact with. This is what makes him great. From a Bush Farm Chair in Worth County, to the high rolling donor, to young green staffers (like I was) and inspiring entire staffs across the country. Ken just connected and was genuine doing so. Every time I see him he still asks, “Hey, how’s A-Money doing?” In reference to how’s my brother is doing.

He could read what motivated you and stepped back to let you achieve your goals... So long as you turned in your spreadsheets on time :). If you worked under Ken, you were lucky to hear and receive a Mehlman Pep Talk. And I’m telling ya guys, if you weren’t fired up to run through concrete walls after you heard it, your pilot light was out.

He is just one of those leaders like great football coaches. By Ken being Ken, he got the absolute most out of every single player.

THE MEHLMAN COACHING TREE – Like in the NFL, the Greats always have disciples and great success stories from the people surrounded by them. This is Mehlman Legacy. His coaching tree spreads all over the Country. Many have moved on to big things and successful campaigns. Like I said before, most are now getting to the consulting side of the game. This is why I believe we’re near the end of the Mehlmanian Era. His legacy will always be the standard and still impact every single day of any campaign. But with a new cycle on the horizon I believe a new era is about to unfold.

GEARING UP FOR 2012 – As I said, this is Iowa. Or as I refer to it, “The Hollywood of Politics.” This is where political operatives and the next “greats” get discovered. Sorry New Hampshire but it's true. From loyal sons and daughters of the Hawkeye State… to bright eyed, eager out of staters… this is where you go to cut your teeth and be discovered. Case in point? See the current Obama administration and the Bush 43 White House. At one point the Bush White House Political Department back in 2001 looked like our office out in Clive in ’99. “So what does this mean, G$?” Hang on, I’m getting to it.

Politico’s article on the “Best Gets for 2012” epitomizes the whole idea that this cycle has already begun. Others have been swooped up already for “Leadership PACs”. I know a lot of the listed in the “Best Gets.” Some very well, some just by conference calls or trainings along the way. Are these people the next Ken Mehlman? No. Now, before you send me your hate mail. I’m not knocking these people. They are the best. Smart. Uber-accomplished. Many have stemmed from the Mehlman Coaching Tree. All have their niches, strengths and talents that most wish they had a fifth of.

These folks have built reputations and legends of their own. They will all be leading different camps. And one of these people will lead the campaign to the general. But they won’t be able to leave an impact the size that Ken did. Why? These people already have their shticks. They are already trading on their own names. In one of these 2012 campaigns, there will be a person who will be the day-to-day cog that leads all to victory. The next Mehlman. “So G$, if these kids aren’t the next Ken, who is it?”

THE NEXT MEHLMAN – My answer? We haven’t even heard of he or she’s name yet. My prediction is that he or she will come up in a similar way that Ken did. Leaving a post from some Congressional office. Jumping on a campaign… moving to Iowa… moving up from a Regional Political Director of a young campaign… to becoming the Chairman of the RNC. Will it be the same path for the future Mehlman? Of course not. But this is recipe of the next grassroots political legend that is to come.

This person will take the lessons learn from the Mehlmanian Era and combine them with what we learned from the 2008 Obama campaign. The next Mehlman will have this ability to utilize the ever changing technologies with good ole fashioned grassroots neighbor-to-neighbor politics. And when this happens, hold on to your hats kids.

If we are to be successful as a party in this decade we should, and I hope candidates have an eye open, for the next Ken Mehlman. While no one is ever the same as the greats, this person will be the great on their own name… and when that happens… we’ll start a new era of success.

Anyone have ideas on who it will be? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments and as always… stay thirsty my friends.

Sucka Emcees Can't See Me...

2010-08-02T12:21:00.002-05:00

Holy eff dudes. Where the hell is this Summe going? Anyone else think this one is going fast? Dayam.

Anyways. It's been a while... So I decided I would do a randomish... type of camp update... you know like... how's the Summer going... for the Summer of Epic... oh and a little house cleeaning procedures here at QCI.

So... in no particular order of stuff...

BUICK WEEK - Holy crap man... so awesome. #goodjoboutofyou to my Dad and his crew for putting on an awesome, awesome event up in Ames this week. The highlight was Friday. Freaking. Amazing. I have never seen my hometown packed like that. 250 plus classic Buicks in Downtown Jewell. And from talkng to the Buick folks... it was the best time they have had these national meets. A lot of people from across North America found out, I've known for years. Jewell rules.

EPIC FOOD WEEK - I gotta tell ya. Are you paying attention Flyover Foodie? HOT DISH! So dudes... had a ton of sweet corn this past week. FTW! Got to celebrate the good stuff from back home. From basically pork everything... tenderloin, chops and yes... my favorite, pork burgers. Then, epic turkey... from God's Country. We have a ton of turkey producers back home. Here's a quick fact... if you order a turkey sandwich from Subway... 9 times out of 1o... it came from Southern Hamilton County. #goodjoboutofyou Mark Dorenbush and crew for great turkey uptown. Oh... and we serve over a ton of corn up in Jewell Friday. Off. The. Chain.

HICKORY PARK - Yes... I even hit that up. Yes... I have said it's kind of over rated. That's just because, I'm from there. While entertaining peeps from out of town... I utilized a new saying for you all... "When in Rome, do what the Romans do. If you're from Rome, entertain the guests." Hickory Park is still great. Never had a bad meal there... for the record. But there are other great joints... just wish O'Malley and McGee's was still around. I and many others from the area miss that joint.

POLITICS - Not sure if there's much to report... I mean... it's freaking August. New ads are going up... most of them beating the shit out of each other. I know this is nessesary... but... sometimes... I just wish on both sides... they could tell a story why their candidate is great. Not why the other sucks. This goes for both sides. But, it is what it is.

QCI BOOK CLUB? Hmmmm... maybe. A loyal reader asked what I have been reading this Summer. So here it is.... In the middle of the Karl Rove book. It's awesome. Finished the Dick Vermeil biography earlier this summer... and started to read... for the 6th time, Why We Suck by Denis Leary. I still LOL while reading it. Did I really just type LOL? Sigh... gonna pick up Game Change next. Heard it's like crack cocaine for political junkies. Like the good stuff from over seas. Not the stuff that's cut here. Yeah... not making Coke references? Uh... well... I guess.

AND FINALLY... More stuff... have an epic thought on 2012 that you might enjoy. Stay thirsty my friends... and a crank this awesome from the 90's...

Girl you know it's true... Peace and Chicken Grease...

2010-07-22T20:15:00.005-05:00

So... just had a conversation after while heading home from the office.... epic conversations lead to epic ideas... thus leading to my bird brain idea of the day.

I think I figured out how to bring a little peace to our society. Something that may even save lives... you know keeping people from wanted to kill people... so here it is...

Alright... the idea stemmed from a conversation on war stories of poor service... usually from fast food joints... but then we started talking about other places and businesses who... let's face it... some days peeps just mail it in. You know?

Sometime this idea is a little foreign to me. I've always been at places where I enjoy what I'm doing, the people I work with... and really like working with the peeps. But I know there are many who are like John Lovetts working as a waiter in the 5 Timers Club, "Hey, work is work."

But then we started talking a little bit. Then it hit me... the 2 Percent Rule. Whoah. What is it?

It's simple... if we could possibly get everyone to at least take 2 percent of their day to give a shit... how epic would everything be? Think about it. How awesome would our country become.

Let's go back to the dude at the fast food joint... just 2% of his time there... to actually give a shit... things become more awesome. I like extra pickles sometimes on a burger. I will gladly pay for it... now... if the fast food kid is practicing the 2% rule? He'll be like, "Dude, I'm effing going 2 percent on this guy. Man, make sure you put extra pickles on that thang!"

See what I'm saying? If we could get everyone... at the very least... to give 2% of his day to actually give a shit about what they are doing... man, there would be all sorts of love, peace and chicken grease to go around.

Chew on that for a while. Hit me up with some comments... and yes... we're doing Milli Vanilli for the second time this week. I'm sorry, I'm sorry that I'm awesome. Stay thirsty my friends.

A little something called the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation...

2010-07-22T12:03:00.004-05:00

Yessssssssssssssss! Special thanks to a loyal reader and hella good pal for sending us this picture. It's effing amazing! Speaking of things ending up in out mail room...

We recieved something that kind of tripped our trigger... a video... made us think... and of course got us chirping a little bit.

The subject? The Iowa Farm Bureau.

Let's rock it like Randy Savage and snap into this Slim Jim.

We'll get to the video here in a sec.

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR - Yessir... County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting time. Think of these meetings as GOP Central Committee Meetings... only with a hell of a lot less bitching and moaning... and freaking way better food. I mean... these peeps are farmers... you're gonna get fed well.

THE BEST POLITICOS IN THE STATE - I'm talking about Farm Bureau members. I've said this before... Farm Bureau members are the most knowledgeable activists in the state. Majority are conservative... of course prolly socially... but fiscal is where these kids Tic the Taco. The are in tune with current events and national debate.

THEIR ENDORSEMENT - It is one of the most important ones in the state. Although... lately... sometimes you wonder if they just want clout or actually care about the issues the advocate. Case in point? See Harkin endorsement in '02... and various other head scratching nods.

That is why one could be a little skeptical when the see this very well done production paid for by the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation....

We can all dig this message of smaller government and less spending... but... will the Iowa Farm Bureau actually act on it? If they are truly serious about this message they paid for... will they actually give their endorsements to candidates who first have a record of doing so... second... running on this message. Third... get their members to actually work on behalf of the people they pick. When they do... look out...

Hey... they are a great organization. One of the true groups who have a grassroots organization that produces results. The only other group who is better than these guys in their results? The Southside of Des Moines.

I would just like to know if they are serious about the video that they had made. Have they really had enough? Or are they just kissing up to who might be writing the Farm Bill next time?

Not to Slim Shady this... but will the real Farm Bureau, please stand up?

Maybe this video is an indicator that they are.

Until next time. Stay thirsty my friends.

One sign that the kids aren't alright...

2010-07-21T10:18:00.003-05:00

So.... a few random things for you today. See!!! You cans stop sendings me your hate emauls!! I'm back to a regular schedule! *smirk* But anyways... You know the old saying... "The kids are alright." Yeah... um, no they effing aren't if this kid I ran into represents all the kids... let me explain.

THERE ARE ZERO NEGOTIATIONS ON THIS - So I ran into a new loyal reader recently... younger fella... just finishing up college... We swapped a few stories and started to do the typical dude thing... bust out movie lines and references. After an epic back and forth of great lines... I go straight to the go tos... Yes, from one of THE all time greatest movies... Ghostbusters. This is where it gets ugly. I say... "Back off man, I'm a scientist." Get a blank stare... of which at first... I'm like well, that is a pretty obsure Ghostbuster reference... So I roll with "Are you the key master?" And... then the kid goes, "Oh Ghostbusters, yeah... that's a bad movie." Instantly the record player scratches off in my head. What?!! He just said... Ghostbuster is a bad movie?!! Then I'm peppered with arguements on that its a generational thing?!! Psssht... please... more like child please. When there younge fellas start saying that Ghostbusters is a bad movie... this a sure fire sign... that indeed, the kids are not alright.

WAIT... WHEN DID THE SKUNK SEEM LIKE A GOOD IDEA? Remember the quote of the last post? Yeah... said it again when I read about this Northwest Iowa family had a skunk for a pet... I mean... I loves me some Pepe Le Pew... one of my favorite Loony Tune characters... but I'm not bat shit crazy enough to think that a real one would make a good pet. Oh... and it has rabies too. That's effing amazing. Winner winner chicken dinner!

QCI FACEBOOK STATUS OF THE DAY

"So and so... the Sonic Footlong Quater Pound Coney. it was Pukalicious ! ! !"

Um... gross and epic at the same time.... +1!!

NOT A GOOD WEEK FOR DEMOCRAT GOVERNOR TYPES FROM IOWA - Whoah... not gonna lie. I'm just a little taken back by this Vilsack stuff happening in the national news. When the NAACP retracks its praise in a press release... uh... not good. Not good at all. Which surprises me... I mean... this is Teflon Tom Vilsack. He's actually a very great guy. I like the dude. Politics aside, when something like this happens... it's kind of sad.

NEW STUFF COMING TO THE WORLD'S CRAPPIEST BLOG - OK peeps... next January will be our 3rd year of the awesome.... and just about 50,ooo of you have checked this joint out. Thanks dudes. Also... I noticed that there are some new thingers you can add via Blogger... Yeah I know... Nerd alert. Got it. But as many of my loyal readers know... like a good grunge band, I loves me some feedback... so I have added a rating system aat the bottom of each post. Hit it up. Also... you can leave a comment or two... oh and easy on the dick jokes, please. I know who you are.

AND FINALLY... You know... Governor Culver is makes me angry... eh, more disappointed. Oh and not because of policy... politics... nah... it's when he ruins songs for me that are so OJ Simpson... because they are such guilty pleasures... Case in point... his answer the other day on why I-JOBS isn't producing... jobs. Que the Milli Vanilli... and stay thirsty my friends.

HEY NORM! TELL ME WHAT YOU DID TO TATE FORCIER!!

2010-07-20T15:02:00.006-05:00

We broke his *blank* clean off! Bwahahahahahaha!!!!

Oh sorry friends. Was thinking that we were less than 7 weeks away to kick off... my mind wanders a bit a times. Anyways....

I thought I was good at screwing up things. You know, if something can be screwed up... call me up hoss... and did I tell you I'm an expert in the ridiculous?

So as I have said before... I'm not a fire breather... got it? I'm not one of these guys who are obsessed with Obama's birth certificate or all of that other bat shit crazy stuff. To me... worrying about these issues is about as sensless as the lefties were with their whacked out kooked out stuff they were pushing on George W. Bush.

But that's not to say that... from time to time... I will read or hear something and... no matter where I am... and generally not caring who hears me... I will say this in a rather loud voice...

"You have got to be fucking shitting me."

Yeah... sorry on the language on this Grandma... but when I read the following... it happened.

Word on the Tweet from WHO-TV's purple tie wearing fool Dave Price:

"Governor Culver blames drop of June's 2,700 construction jobs from June 09 on bad weather not failures of his I-JOBS plan."

Yeah... go ahead and say it too... you'll feel better.

Anyways... per usual... not a good week for Big Lug. His fundraising numbers that they were all proud to brag about before... took a huge dump. Not good at all for the kids in the green and yellow shirts. Now Big Lug wants to have millions of debates... if what I'm reading right in the Twittersburgh.

But I would like to remind my fine feathered friends on our side of the aisle... I wouldn't start doing the Humpty Hump just yet. This is the time we need to go all Bobby Bowden on their asses. It's time to run up the score. Seriously, dudes... They are not even covering kickoff returns right now... but don't think someone won't hand them one of those nasty 5 hour energy thingers to help them wake them up... Because sooner or later... they will actually try to tackle the returner...

More to come... until next time, crank it tup suckers!!! And always... stay thirsty my friends.

Boo-lay, boo-lay boom Billboard Buzz...

2010-07-18T15:28:00.007-05:00

Feeling good today... Doing my normal routine this AM... You know... Scouring through the DMR... gettin' my Dunkin Donuts coffee on... a few smokes... and of course... Sunday morning is not Sunday morning... unless there is bacon involved... and Meet the Press. Sorry, I don't make these rules. While getting my Sunday morning news buzz errr fix on... I saw something in the Opinion section of the DMR... wasn't really feeling like saying something about it... you know... until... I killed a pound of bacon... it's my spinach I guess... so let's take a stab at it.

THE TEA PARTY BILLBOARD IN MASON CITY - Yeah... You've all heard about this right? If not here's the deets. So the North Iowa Tea Party thought it would a be super clever idea to put up a billboard with Hitler on it. This would sound like a GREAT idea if you know... you hit your head with a tack hammer every morning. Yeps, I said it. Listen... I get their point and they idea they were going with... but uh... you may wanna think it through next time... For you people in Story City and for the one who are about to send me massive amounts of love letters... let me walk you through this.
POLITICAL JUNKIES/ACTIVIST ARE NOT NORMAL PEOPLE - I can say this because I am one. Here's the thing. Political activists/junkies are also history buffs by nature... (you all want in on the secret? Political Science courses are glorified history classes)... so yeah. We are very astute to history... and what it means if we repeat it. But... normal average people don't think in this way. Here's why the Tea Party people thought it was a good idea... You show a picture of Hitler... to the majority of people... the first thing they will think is evil... killer... you catch my drift, right? Um... not everyone thinks. "Oh hey, that Hilter was a socialist." Sorry friends... you tea party folks can argue with me until you're blue in the face... but that's the reality... and that is why it was a #horriblejoboutofyou for even thinking that this was a good idea.
BILLBOARDS AND YARD SIGNS CHANGE MINDS AND WIN ELECTIONS - Do I need to begin my list of reasons why the Tea Party movement is gonna last maybe just as long as the last the Ross Perot fad? How do I know that this isn't gonna last long at all? Because this local chapter's first big expenditure was to spend it on a billboard... One of the most expensive and least effective means of political advertising. I could list a hundreds of more... but this decision was the one that told me... nogga nogga nogga nogga... not gonna be around that long.
G$, YOU HATE FREEDOM, YOU COMMIE! Sigh... yeps... I can already hear the emails, texts and carrier pigeons with your comments on this. Listen, I get what you're trying to say. POTUS (that's President of the United States for you folks in Roland) has policies that are socialist. Bet get this friends... you have to dumb it down a bit. You already got people fired up. Don't pull some fraternity prank for publicity for the cause. Organize... be smart about it... and then do it.
BUT G$ WE GOT EARNED MEDIA OUT OF IT - Yeah... then you had to take it down. Sorry pals, this was just... a bad idea. But, hey... you still think its a good idea? That's fine... who doesn't like a tack hammer to the head in the morning, right? Oh... not this guy.
LETTERS, THEY GET LETTERS, SACKS AND SACK OF LETTERS - Hahaha, sacks. Oh, but Kuwait a minute. So yeah... on Sunday's... the first 3 sections I grab are the first section, then the opinion and then the sports page. The 2nd page in the opinion section? Letters to the Editor. I will say first... that none of the letters about the Billboard were even in the North Iowa area. Not even close. Des Moines, Waukee, Iowa City and Ames? Hmmm... hey Iowa Democrat Party (IDP)... next time, how about getting some peeps from the area to send a letter.... got it? Then I will believe it a little better... also... another thing. But again... hahaha sacks...
THANKS FOR PLAYING - Yeah... among the letters in the DMR... one was from State Senator Jack Hatch... really? There really coulda been a better person to send it in, IDP... don't you all have someone from up there? Anyone? Yeah... because I'm not about to take a lecture from a guy who thought it was alright at the time to say the N word in the Capitol. Sorry... but credibility can leave in just one word... and as Hershel mentioned the other day... good to see it's alright to use those words... according to IDP and others. Nice.
SERIOUSLY FELLAS - Dudes, I'm with ya... talking to you Tea Party peeps. And believe me... I sincerely love your enthusiasm. It's freaking epic. Actually, it's pretty effing awesome. But we gotta play smart. I think I have said this before... but hell, I say it again. I subscribe to the rules from Roadhouse: There's a time to be nice and a time to be not nice. Absolutely... right on. Gotta stand up and fight... BUT, I also subscribe to the notion and case against this "Confrontational Conservative" garbage. Let me walk you through it... At your job and or the business you own... When you are confrontational to your customers... how does that go? In your relationships... When you are confrontational to your friends, family and... especially your better half... when you are confrontational to these folks... how does that usually work out? Pretty good, right? Unless you are living in a bizarro world or your better half is into some freaky deeky stuff... being confrontational all the time... usually isn't the best way to keep customers, business, friends, family and you'll be spending some quality time with the couch at night... In the epic words of my old poli sci prof at Iowa, "Am I communicating?"

AND FINALLY... As Coach Burton always said, "Anyway, long story short..." This was a bad idea... and leaves a bruise on the movement. But hey... it could be a lot worse right? I would rather have this issue on our side of the aisle than dealing with a standard bearer who isn't raising money... unless it comes from the Democratic Governors Association... Yeah dudes... serious... you see Skinny this week? Next question is... when does Geri Huser switch? Hey... and its not just friends on the Eastside... Sources close to QCI are telling us... the Southside crew... isn't feeling so hot about it either... And in cases like that? They take care of themselves first...

Anyhoop... more to come on this and other stuff... Until next time... crank this epic tune that is becoming the Campaign 2010 theme here at QCI... Stay thirsty my friends.

Politics, Iowa is Awesome and the Freaks...

2010-07-13T15:09:00.006-05:00

What up, what up? It’s been a while since we have got all random on you. So let’s give ‘er a shot. Yes, I have been getting your pissy emauls ERRR emails on the lack of postage here. Yes, it’s all my fault. Sorry dudes. I know that this is where some of you get your news on a day to day basis… which on one side is creepy… but really, it’s pretty freaking awesome at the same time. Now… let’s do this thing.

STATE OF THE RACES – Yea… totally didn’t do a State Convention round up. I think we’re way past that now. So how about a little update from the cheap seats? Well… ok. First… The Statewides… been impressed with the team. And yes, I may be a homer on this… but I don’t think I’ve seen a slate of candidates work so hard. They are everywhere. How do I know? Tweets and Facebook. Congressionals… Zaun is earning his name… “The hardest working man in Iowa Politics.” Dudes… I’ve seen him in action a few times over the 4th. Dude is doing it. I mean… real good. The guy just really connects with all sorts of people… even the ones who completely disagree. The 3rd District is gonna be fun to watch. Now… I haven’t forgotten Miller-Meeks… she’s working it too. Again… loving her updates.
CONTROL OF THE LEGISLATURE – Starting to feel a breeze in the sails here kids. Now J-Lynch (new nickname for you bruh) over at the CR Gazette had an article the other day (too lazy to look it up… c'mon, this is a blog, not a term paper) that had some analysis on the State House. It for the first time… in a long time… it’s looking really good. Reallly effing good. The State Senate… it’s always been the tough one… are we making movement? I think so. But… gotta see more. An educated guess would have to say that these winds are helping. I’m sure they will email me something soon.

QCI FACEBOOK STATUS OF THE DAY

“So and so… i just made the worst pot of coffee ever. i don't know what went wrong. it tastes like i rang out my wife's socks in hot water.”

Not a good way to start your day. Case in point why we need Dunkin Donuts back in the DeMo.

GOV RACE – Lots of ads going on… Now there’s a lot about these 4th of July parades and pictures and all of that stuff. I still think the proof is in the ads… not one positive one out of Team Lug… I mean I get it… I think there’s gonna be some more separation on this… stay tuned.
US SENATE – These "experts" can upgrade the status of this race all they want. Chuck Grassley is gonna win. End. Of. Story. Anyone else find it funny on this kind of push or subtle argument that Roxanne is the standard bearer for the Ds? What happen to the Lug?
IOWA IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE – Uh… (and sorry for the language Grandma, but)... no shit. I find it interesting when politicians want to announce this. And before you Leftys start sending me hate mail and tweets… I mean this for both sides. Here’s the truth that many of you don’t want to hear. Get this… Politicians, media and government did not make Iowa the best place to live, work and play. They didn’t… sorry. It’s the people and our communities that do. End of story. Had a tweet asking, “You mean they had no hand in the quality of schools?” No. They did not. Money and orders from higher up the chain didn’t make Iowa schools top tier. It’s the great teachers and great communities who make our schools great. Not government, the media or politicians. But anyways… good to see all these magazines, websites and other sources are figuring out something we all have known for years… Iowa is the best damn place to be… and no… not just every 4 years. So... take that Minnesota!!!
SHOUT OUT TO THE FREAKS – Yeah man. A week or so ago… I met up with the dudes who write the Des Moines Sports Freaks, Blake and Joe. These dudes are legit. Both Army guys. Both married with kids on the way… and put out an epic blog and radios shows. Fun loving hard working guys. They are hilarious, know their stuff and do the homework when they don't... I know, refreshing, right? Anyways… add them to your daily reads… They are official members of the LBC on my blog roll... up on the right... check it fools!

AND FINALLY – Yes, I know… again. I apologize for the lack of posts… I gots some more coming… so just chill. You. Must. Chill! Speaking of chillin’… check yo self and chill to some Roots… Until then… Stay thirsty my friends.

Hey Travel Channel...

2010-07-13T10:40:00.003-05:00

#horriblejoboutofyou for real.

Actually... you know what? You all kind are bad at what you do.

In case you missed it. The Iowa stories that were supposed to be on last night... uh... must have hit the cutting floor. Now... sure... we're all a little disappointed. But you know... sometimes you gotta look at the positive side... I guess this means more beef jerky for all of us.

But the thing that shows... kind of that... you all aren't good at what you do? Um, this was supposed to showcase "The Heartland"... and somehow, Texas is in the Heartland? Really?

I know tons of Texans. And get this if you asked them if they were in the Heartland... hell, you ask them if they are in the South... the majority of the would say... "Child please, we's from Texas." Yeah... good to know that a network that is supposed to be about "travel" can't even get the regions in this country right. Sigh... oh well. it was cool to get some buzz for God's Country.

More to come and as always... Stay thirsty my friends.

Stanhope, Iowa is Epic

2010-07-12T16:42:00.003-05:00

It’s a great day to be from God’s Country today my friends! Not only is Saturday… a National Holiday back home… the 53rd Stanhope Watermelon Day… but it just gets better… Tonight… Stanhope, Iowa… is going to be on National Television!!! At 9:00pm Iowa time tonight… on Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations… on the Travel Channel.

Why? They will feature a long time business and not so hidden treasure… the Stanhope Locker. And for those in the know… it is epic. Seriously dudes. Stanhope Locker is off the chain… and so is their famous beef jerky.

I think I’ve said this before… but I love it when my friends and loyal readers say, “Dude, drove through Jewell yesterday.” Or texting me, “Dude, going through Stanhope.” My first response is… Good! Stop and spend some money! And if you are in the area… you’ll wanna spend some money on the good stuff. And where is the good stuff? The Stanhope Locker. I guarantee you… if you stop there once… you’ll be back every chance you can.

Of course the beef jerky is worth the drive. But… I’m tellin’ ya dudes… you won’t find better pork burgers than the ones they got at the Locker. Yeah… I know… it is pretty hard to mess up a pork burger… and I have had many. But for some reason… the ones from Stanhope are the best ones I have ever had. And the same goes for just about everything there. It’s hard to explain until you’ve had it. Also... for you hunters out there… they are crazy good with processing deer. So good, they usually have a waiting list.

Dudes… I loves me some Stanhope Locker. I’m a pretty lucky guy. Why? It’s pretty safe to say… me, my family, and many others in God’s Country grew up on meat from the Stanhope Locker. So off the chain… it’s crazy freaking good.

So… alright… be sure to check it out tonight! Travel Channel tonight, 9pm Iowa Time… or Central Time for you folks up in Story City. Here’s some linkage for you on tonight’s showcase of one of the best places to hit when you’re God’s County…

Flyover Foodie - #goodjoboutofyou Noreen! Wonder who you sources are!

Des Moines Register – Of course they go gaga over the Des Moines stop. One of my favs too! But… C’mon son! Give God’s County some pub.

City of Stanhope – Everything you need to know about Stanhope and Stanhopeans.

Side note here… if you’re looking for a pretty cool day this weekend? Head on up to Stanhope this Saturday! Dudes, you’re kids will think you’re off the chain… and you are gonna score some epic food… both in the Stanhope Park and at the Locker. Oh and free Watermelon all afternoon. Just bring your own fork is all they ask.

So there you have it. Man this is so awesome. Stanhope freaking Iowa is on TV tonight Noice! Something like this makes you want to crank an epic tune! Hit it fellas… and stay thirsty my friends.

Yeah, I know.

2010-07-09T10:12:00.004-05:00

Guh... sorry dudes. July is a crazy month. But doesn't mean I can deny the awesome from you loyal QCI-ders out there. So stay thirsty my friends.... I've got some stuff coming.

If you need your fix of epic... either follow the "stalk me" thinger on the right... or follow me up in the land of Twitters... here's where you do that.

I know I say this all the time... but really. Lots and lots of stuff... until then... crank up some of this from the English Beat.... Hit it...