Director Gipp

Decorah Republican State Rep. Chuck Gipp now has a new title: Director. Gipp finished up his nine-term career in the legislature this spring. He seemed well-liked with his fellow Republicans, and for what it's worth, he is well-respected in the media. Current Minority Leader Chris Rants is usually a pretty easy soundbite. Let's just say, he likes to speak his mind, which quite frankly, is nice for us in tv. We need a guy who can express himself with a little emotion from time to time. No doubt Gipp knew the issues when he was House Majority Leader, but he was a far different soundbite than Rants. He didn't get all riled up too easily. We had to work for a passionate soundbite from him:)

Today, Gipp began his new job as Director of the Division of Soil Conservation. It's a full-time gig that pays 85k.

Here's part of the release:

DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey today announced that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has hired Chuck Gipp as the new Director of the Division of Soil Conservation.

The Division of Soil Conservation is responsible for administering state programs and providing leadership to farmers, landowners, communities and others to promote the protection and management of soil, water and mineral resources. The Division also assists Soil and Water Conservation Districts and private landowners to meet their agricultural and environmental protection needs.

“The Division of Soil Conservation makes up nearly half of the Department and I’m very confident the Chuck will provide strong and visionary leadership as we continue to address the conservation issues and opportunities facing the state,” Northey said. “Both his experience as a state legislator and an actively engaged farmer in Northeast Iowa will benefit both the Division and the farmers they partner with.”

"I'm extremely excited by this opportunity with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship," Gipp said. "I've worked in agriculture as a farmer and in the dairy industry, so I look forward to now helping other farmers expand their conservation efforts."

Gipp has been a member of the Iowa House of Representatives since 1991, serving House District 16, and retired following the 2008 legislative session. While in the legislature he served as Majority Leader from 2002 to 2006 and Majority Whip from 1995 to 1999.

He has also been managing partner of A-G Swiss Farms, Inc., a diversified farm that he operated with his brothers near Decorah, IA. They specialized in the breeding and milking of registered Brown Swiss dairy cattle.

Is This What It's Coming To?

(Yeah, I know. I dangled my preposition in the title. But it's Friday.)

This story just crossed on the Associated Press. How bad are things if we're looking for death stats in gas prices? Here's the story...

Researchers are seeing a silver lining in high gas prices. They say that as gas prices go up -- auto deaths decline. Their study found that for every 10 percent increase in gas prices there was a 2.3 percent decline in auto deaths. For drivers ages 15 to 17, the decline was 6 percent.
The study looked at fatalities from 1985 to 2006, when gas prices reached about $2.50 a gallon.

Professor Michael Morrisey of the University of Alabama-Birmingham says with gas now over $4 a gallon, he expects to see a drop of about 1,000 deaths a month. But co-author David Grabowski, of Harvard Medical School, cautions that the estimate could be offset somewhat by the shift to smaller, lighter, more fuel-efficient cars and an increase in motorcycle and scooter driving.

(I tried to find a font the color of gas. It's the best I can do.)

More on Boswell?

If you're looking for more info on what's going on with Leonard Boswell, well, I don't know what to say. Much like last time around (in 2005 when Boswell had his first surgery), his campaign is slow to say much and when it does, it says very little.

This statement came around 9pm.

Washington, DC—Today, Iowa Congressman Leonard Boswell underwent surgery to have a revision from his previous surgery in 2005.
Following is a statement from Boswell’s Chief of Staff, Susan McAvoy:
“We are pleased to report that the surgery was a success, and the Congressman is resting comfortably with his family. He will be back to the people’s business soon and expects to be back to work in the near future.”

That is it. Do they really think this is all Iowans need to know? Right or wrong, Boswell is a 74-year-old man who underwent some other type of surgery in 2005. He wants voters to trust him to re-elect him to another term in office.

Boswell to my knowledge never has really told us much about that "mass" doctors removed from his abdomen. His campaign said it was "non-cancerous", yet the Congressman underwent chemotherapy, lost some hair and a bunch of weight.

So we know this latest surgery has something to do with the first one. I'm told from several Democratic sources this surgery took place this morning. Yet, we didn't receive any official word from his office until about 9pm after I and I'm sure other reporters from across the state began calling.

Undoubtedly, this is a delicate matter. Undoubtedly, friends and family only want what's best for the Congressman. Undoubtedly, politically this is also delicate. Democrats don't want to see this newest health issue for this senior citizen legislator to scare Iowans into thinking he is no longer able to handle the rigors of office. Let's hope the Congressman's office believes it's important to tell voters what's happening. Let's hope those voters will learn more information about the man they've elected to represent them in one form or another for three decades. Let's hope they learn more than "a revision from his previous surgery in 2005."

Boswell's Health--breaking news

(Leonard Boswell pre-2006 surgery)

Several sources confirm to me central Iowa Democratic Congressman Leonard Boswell has undergone surgery in Washington, D.C. You'll remember last time he had surgery, we had a tough time getting information about it. In fact, I don't recall Boswell ever really talking fully about this. His office didn't deny the surgery today. But all a spokeswoman will say is that he is "fine." In fact, she told me that several times during our brief phone call.

Boswell had some type of large mass removed from his abdomen in 2006. The spokeswoman said the office will have a statement on this "shortly".

Iowa Chops

Hockey fans...get ready for the Iowa Chops. Yep, forget the Iowa Thunder. Thanks to the gang at WHO-TV 13's Sports Soundoff show and its fans, the minor league hockey team in Des Moines will now be called the Chops. Soundoff fans voted the Chops as the best name and it looks like the local hockey gurus agree. So props to Andy Fales and Keith Murphy!

Surely, they'll serve Iowa pork chops during the games, right? Surely, they will.

Outside with Barry

I guess we can forget a Democratic National Convention sequel with Barack Obama. Well, at least a sequel INSIDE the convention hall. Obama made a name for himself in 2004 giving a speech inside the old FleetCenter in Boston. It looks like he's taking his act outdoors later this year in Denver. 75,000 adoring, screaming supporters filling the Denver Broncos stadium. Obama's Campaign Manager David Plouffe sent out this email to supporters:

Dave --

I wanted you to be the first to hear the news. At the Democratic National Convention next month, we're going to kick off the general election with an event that opens up the political process the same way we've opened it up throughout this campaign. Barack has made it clear that this is your convention, not his. On Thursday, August 28th, he's scheduled to formally accept the Democratic nomination in a speech at the convention hall in front of the assembled delegates. Instead, Barack will leave the convention hall and join more than 75,000 people for a huge, free, open-air event where he will deliver his acceptance speech to the American people. It's going to be an amazing event, and Barack would like you to join him. Free tickets will become available as the date approaches, but we've reserved a special place for a few of the people who brought us this far and who continue to drive this campaign. If you make a donation of $5 or more between now and midnight on July 31st, you could be one of 10 supporters chosen to fly to Denver and spend two days and nights at the convention, meet Barack backstage, and watch his acceptance speech in person. Each of the ten supporters who are selected will be able to bring one guest to join them. Make a donation now and you could have a front row seat to history: https://donate.barackobama.com/yourconvention We'll follow up with more details on this and other convention activities as we get closer, but please take a moment and pass this note to someone you know who might like to be there. It will be an event you'll never forget.

Thank you,

David

Lighten Up, Tubby

I was just catching up on some reading while I watch my Cardinals struggle again against the Cubbies. BTW, was the home plate ump from last night from Chicago or what? His calls were terrible, just terrible.

Anyway, what would you think if once a year the government put a tape measure around your waist? We all know many of our friends and neighbors are a little too chubby these days. Almost one in two is overweight, if not obese. But how far is too far for Big Brother to go to slim us down? Japan apparently thinks a tape measure to the tummy isn't too much.

One Iowan who definitely doesn't have to worry about it is Shawn Johnson. We ran into her at a sushi place in West Des Moines on the 4th of July. Yeah, I know, what better way to celebrate being an American than with some Japanese cuisine? Shawn doesn't have an ounce of fat on her. I'm sure she didn't try the fried dumplings like we did:) BTW, did you know she has her own website?

West Des Moines and Urbandale

Microsoft and the state of Iowa have finally announced we will have a new neighbor. Microsoft will build a data farm in central Iowa. The company isn't saying where yet. Actually, the company isn't really saying much at all to me yet. I've been calling Redmond, Washington for the last few months ever since a little birdie told me to watch for this deal. But the company spokeswoman has never returned my call. I sure hope that's not the way the company will do business here.

All the state is saying is that this new data farm will go in central Iowa. My sources tell me the decision is down to two cities, West Des Moines and Urbandale, although no city leader/official from either city will attach his/her name to a quote on this. Apparently, this is pretty sensitive stuff and no one wants to be the squealer that jeopardizes the deal. I get the feeling West Des Moines has the edge right now. But I wouldn't bet my shrinking 401K on it yet.

The Des Moines Register reports the data farm will be in excess of half a billion dollars. It has to be at least $200 million to qualify for some of the free bees from the state of Iowa. The legislature passed a provision giving a company that spent at least that much on a project tax breaks on computer equipment purchases and electricity. This project would seem to easily qualify. Duh...

Google is already opening a similar operation in Council Bluffs that should open next year. That one is a $600 million project. And those jobs pay $50 plus. So these seem like the good jobs our state needs to attract and keep "young" people here.

Yahoo, where are you? There's still room.

Punishment for Ramona

(Photo courtesy: The Villager)

50 years in federal prison and $1.85 million in fines could be the max for former CIETC CEO Ramona Cunningham. Of course, there's no way she will serve the maximum. U.S. Attorney Matt Whitaker figured she would get between 7 and 10 years since she avoided trial and admitted guilt. But, of course, it is all up to one man, U.S. District Judge Robert Pratt. He gets to decide the sentence. He doesn't have to send her to prison at all.

What is "fair?" Prosecutors say Cunningham was likely the mastermind that hosed taxpayers out of about $1.5 million or so. BTW, Whitaker said he won't use Cunningham to try to nail anyone else in this case. It's over, he says. Over, except for the sentencing.

Seven to 10 years...is that enough for what Cunningham did? Should she have to pay fines, too? Should she have to pay back taxpayers for the money that should have helped Iowans find jobs? What about restitution and fines? What is fair?

Cher, Madonna and Ramona

Former CIETC CEO-turned admitted crook Ramona Cunningham had her day in federal court in Des Moines. She is no longer saying she is "not guilty" and "earned" the ridiculous amounts of bonuses and salaries she awarded herself (along with the help of the former Chairman of the Board, who also apparently was her former "more than friends" kind of pal). She pleaded guilty to 8 of the 30 federal charges of obstruction, fraud, misapplication of funds and conspiracy. Did I leave any out? She didn't have much to say to us as she walked passed the media hoard.

Her attorney, Bill Kutmus, did talk about all the attention the media have brought to this case. He said because of all the continued attention, Cunningham can now be as easily recognized with just one name like Madonna and Cher. Ramona. Yep, it's the media's fault. It has nothing to do with the fact the GED-turned-CEO allegedly swindled taxpayers out of a half a million dollars that was supposed to help Iowans get jobs. Ramona. Yep, it's the media's fault. He also said Cunningham, I mean, Ramona, will not be able to return to live in Iowa again. Ramona. Yep, it's the media's fault.

No Special Session?

I'm still trying to figure out what to make of a late afternoon meeting at the Iowa Statehouse today. Democratic and Republican leaders, their staffs, Lt. Governor Patty Judge, Homeland Security Administrator Dave Miller and representatives from FEMA all met for a little more than an hour. The participants told me they heard primarily about numbers...flood damage, houses affected, etc. But afterwards, Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal said a special session may not be necessary (House Speaker Pat Murphy seemed to agree). Governor Chet Culver has said previously he may call lawmakers back into special session so they could best figure out how to pay for the state's share of flood recovery efforts. It felt like news. Why was Gronstal saying this?

If you believe the whispers from lobbyists and other "insiders", Culver and Gronstal aren't exactly the best of friends. And Gronstal doesn't like Culver to tell everyone how things are going to be. For the record, both men deny there's any rift between them (You will remember Gronstal considered running for governor. He ended up supporting Culver's Democratic primary opponent, Mike Blouin).

Gronstal said there's no need to rush into special session, since they're still waiting to see how much money the feds will come up with to help Iowa.

Culver didn't take part in the meeting this afternoon. His staff told me he has already spoken to legislative leaders in the past 24 hours. And today, the staff said, the Governor was interviewing potential court appointees. Staff said Culver is still assessing damage estimates, which would take a few weeks, but could still "do things legislatively" if it is necessary (i.e., call a special session). Hmmm.....

ETC...

I know we don't need this rain here in the metro right now, but as my dad says "hopefully it will knock down some of that humidity in the air." No doubt. Last night I went for about a 2 1/2 mile run and probably looked like I ran 20 miles. But I see today I should consider myself lucky that I live in Des Moines (West Des Moines, actually).

Old Spice ranked the top 100 cities where you would likely sweat the most during the summer. Is this really scientific? Anyway, Phoenix, Vegas and Tallahassee top the list. Des Moines comes in a nice, dry 60. I feel cooler already.

McCain Sets Up Shop

Yesterday, Barack Obama announced he has begun setting up his Iowa campaign. Today, it's John McCain. McCain's Iowa State Chair Dave Roederer just sent this out to supporters. I'll try to find out more about Charlie Liebschutz as no bio info is included here.

It has been, and will continue to be, an honor to serve as Chairman of Senator McCain's Iowa campaign. Iowa is going to be a key battleground state and I look forward to helping Senator McCain bring his message of government reform, lower taxes, and American security to all Iowans. Our organization in this state continues to grow and I am pleased to announce that Charlie Liebschutz has joined the team as the campaign's Iowa State Director. Charlie and I will be working closely to expand our grassroots effort, which will be so critical in helping all Iowans to understand the substantive differences that exist between John McCain and Barack Obama.
If you have not already become involved in our grassroots organization, I ask you to sign-up to help organize your county or precinct. In the coming weeks and months, staff and volunteers will be canvassing the state to bring Senator McCain's message directly to the people of Iowa. I hope you will join this effort.

On the Air: Obama vs. McCain

Check the date...June 25th. At least this is the first day I've noticed them. Barack Obama and John McCain both have ads running on tv in Iowa. The battleground state gets a little gunfire. Actually, nothing super controversial. But both ads are interesting, I think. For what it's worth my take on what's going on.

"Country I Love" is the name of Obama's ad. To me this takes on the criticism Obama's not patriotic enough...you know, doesn't wear the flag lapel pin like many other politicians do. Then there's that internet-fueled rumor that he doesn't put his hand over his heart during the national anthem.



McCain's ad is titled "Global". This one's a little more interesting to me than the Obama ad, only because of this. I've wondered if McCain would try to distance himself from the unpopular current President George W Bush. It seems like this is a little tricky as the President remains popular with certain factions of the Republican Party.



What do think about them? Which one is the most effective?

Obama's New Leader...and Sex

(Photo, or whatever it is, courtesy: valleywag.com)

Looks like Barack Obama is getting a jump start on John McCain in Iowa. He just named Jackie Norris as his Iowa State Director. Here's a bit of her bio from the release:

Norris, a long time Democratic operative, served as political director on Vice President Al Gore’s 1999-2000 Iowa caucus campaign and as finance director of Tom Vilsack's 1998 campaign for Governor. Norris worked in Washington D.C. for seven years on Capitol Hill, in the White House as a scheduler for Vice President Gore, and at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Norris teaches high school American Government and History and is married to John Norris, Chair of the Iowa Utilities Board. They have three sons, Hunter, Cole, Sam.

Obama's campaign is also jumping in to help Iowans hurt by the floods. I haven't seen McCain's camp pushing his peeps to do anything. Jackie Norris sent out an email to supporters asking for their help.

The campaign hasn't released other names who will work with the campaign. But I do know Joseph Jones will be one of them. Joseph has been working as the Director of Governmental Affairs for the Iowa Finance Authority. He used to be a communications guy in Governor Tom Vilsack's administration.

ETC...

My wife, Emily, has been wanting to see a movie. But her girlfriends had either already seen it or couldn't go when she could go. So I went with her to Jordan Creek's Century Theater in West Des Moines last night. The movie...yes, "Sex in the City." I know. I can't say I watched the show when it was on HBO. Actually, I couldn't SAY that I watched it even if I did. But, really, I didn't really watch the show when it was on. We walked in halfway through the movie previews. I think the politically correct thing to say is the previews weren't targeted to men. I'll leave it at that.

The highlight of the night for me was probably when another guy walked in with his wife, scanned the crowd, saw me and saluted me for being "another guy" in the theater with him. As for the movie, I won't ruin the ending if you haven't seen it. But let me just say, waaaaay too much man butt. Waaay too much. And what was that sideways shot of, uhm, well, shall we say, "Mr. Johnson"? Since when did movies start showing guy's "little guys"?

Plenty of tears from the women in the theater throughout the movie. Plenty of tears from me during that scene with that sideways shot. Good night, Mr. Johnson.

Former Mayor Dies

Somehow, this didn't post yesterday. My one-time home of residence Windsor Heights sent this out:

The City of Windsor Heights would like to offer heartfelt condolences to the family of Clarence D. Millsap, former firefighter, councilman and Mayor. Mr. Millsap died Friday, June 20th at the age of 89.

Mr. Millsap began on the City Council in 1957. Prior to joining the Council, Mr. Millsap was a volunteer firefighter. In 1960, Millsap was elected as Mayor and served in that position until 1990.

Millsap served as a council member and then as mayor in Windsor Heights for the entire Interstate 235 process; from the time it was proposed in 1957 to thee completion of the west mixmaster in 1968. The project re-routed streets and laid the way for growth in the western suburbs.

Mayor Millsap worked to build City Hall that you know today on 66th Street. Mr. Millsap also spearheaded sanitary and storm sewer projects during his tenure as mayor. He was also active in the Metropolitan Planning Organization.

"Clarence gave a great deal of time and energy to the City and the development of the infrastructure that we continue to benefit from today. We appreciate his service and dedication," said Mayor Jerry Sullivan.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 27 at Merle Hay Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will be held at Chapel Hill Gardens. Visitation will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

BB 3

Eastern Iowa Congressman Bruce Braley appears to be getting a little miffed at the U.S. Labor Secretary. He has sent his third request to find out what's going on in the post-Postville raid investigation. Here's the release:

Braley Continues Pressing for Answers on Status of Department of Labor Investigation into Agriprocessors
Media Reports Cited Ongoing DOL Investigation at Postville Facility

Washington, DC – Today Rep. Bruce Braley (D-Iowa) continued to press for information on the status of an ongoing Department of Labor investigation into Agriprocessors, Inc., for violations at their Postville plant.

Braley originally wrote a letter to Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao and other federal officials on May 15th.

According to media reports, the Department of Labor was conducting an investigation—independent of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s investigation—into possible labor law violations, including illegal child labor, at the Agriprocessors plant. However, the May 14th Des Moines Register stated that “federal officials put the case ‘on hold.’”

A copy of the letter is attached to this message. The text of the letter is below:
--
June 24, 2008

Elaine L. Chao
Secretary of Labor
U.S. Department of Labor
Frances Perkins Bldg., 200 Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20210

Julie Myers
Assistant Secretary
Immigration and Customs Enforcement
425 I Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001

Matt M. Dummermuth
United States Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa
Department of Justice
Hach Bldg, Suite 400, 401 1st Street, S.E.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401-1825

Dear Secretary of Labor Chao, Assistant Secretary Myers, and U.S. Attorney Dummermuth:

I am following up on a letter I wrote to you regarding the status of any ongoing investigations into the Agriprocessors processing plant in Postville, Iowa. I originally sent this letter on May 15, 2008, and then I sent a follow-up letter on June 3, 2008, again requesting the same information as in the original letter.

It has now been over a month since my letter to you, and I have yet to receive any kind of written response, except for a “knowledge of receipt” letter from the Department of Justice, with a workflow reference number of 1393444.

For the third time now, I request information regarding an ongoing U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) investigation at Agriprocessors, as well as whether Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) communicated with DOL prior to the ICE enforcement action at Agriprocessors on May 12, 2008.

I would appreciate a response to the questions from my original letter as soon as possible. Following is the text of the original letter:

Last November, I wrote to Acting Secretary Connor of the U.S. Department of Agriculture concerning Agriprocessors, the world’s largest kosher meat processor based in Postville, Iowa. At the time, the focus of my attention was on the 250-plus Noncompliance Records (NRs), as well as Letters of Warning to Agriprocessors dealing with food safety.

On Monday, May 12th, the Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) executed a worksite enforcement action at this same facility and arrested more than 300 workers on criminal and immigration violations.

It has been reported that the Department of Labor (DOL) was involved in a separate ongoing investigation of possible labor law violations, including illegal child labor, in the Agriprocessors plant. On Wednesday, May 14th the Des Moines Register reported that 12 juveniles between the ages of 15 and 17 were detained during the enforcement action at Agriprocessors.

In a separate article in yesterday’s Des Moines Register, reporter Clark Kauffman summarized Agriprocessors “history of noncompliance with state and federal regulations related to food safety, pollution and workplace safety at its Postville facility…” (see attached article). The most recent violations included citations by the Iowa Department of Labor Services for 39 violations of workplace safety rules and a proposed $182,000 fine. The article states, “Federal officials put the case ‘on hold.’”

I would like to know whether ICE communicated with DOL prior to the enforcement action on May 12th. Also, what is the status of these DOL investigations? Is there any coordination going on between ICE, DOJ, and DOL as they presumably continue their investigations related to Agriprocessors?

It is important that both the ICE and DOL investigations continue. I firmly believe that any possible violations of labor law, immigration law, and workplace safety laws should be investigated and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I urge you to look into this matter and look forward to hearing from you within the next ten days. Thank you for your time and cooperation.

If I do not hear from you within the next ten days, I will refer this information to the House Committees that have jurisdiction over these labor, immigration, and workplace safety issues. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Bruce Braley
Member of Congress

Hillary and the Big Twin

Why does it seem like Hillary Clinton is sending almost as many emails to supporters now that she's out of the race as she did when she was actually running (for President, that is)? She sent out another email tonight. It's supposed to be a "special thank you" message. But it's yet another request for cash.

This is Wilbur Hardee. He just died at the age of 89. Mr. Hardee founded the Hardee's burger chain in 1960. I never knew the man. But I supposed indirectly I worked for him more than four years. Hardee's was my first real job in high school. I started my junior year as a cashier and drive-thru person in my hometown of Belleville, Illinois. It was perfect. I didn't have a car and I could walk there from my high school. I stayed there for nearly three years. I had a big falling out with the management there (although I was in lower management myself). When my friend and I quit we first washed my car with our uniform shirts before we turned them in. Real mature, huh? As it turned out, I ended up working at another Hardee's in Edwardsville, Illinois, my sophomore year of college. I worked for a guy named Ted Williams. He even wore a Boston Red Sox jacket. I'm not making this up. Hardee's seems to have changed its menu a million times since then. But it'll always have a special place in my heart (insert your own fast food joke here).

I'll never forget those polyester, orange, white and brown shirts they made us wear. Thanks, Mr. Hardee (I've searched the internet, but I can't find one of those shirts.)

Ahhh, the Big Twin.

Mondays...

It's tough to get going on Mondays sometimes. I worked six days last week. Maybe that's it. Or maybe it's because we took a walk Sunday a.m., played softball in the afternoon (and, won, I might add!) and ran in the evening. But then I remember all of those people working night and day to try to rebuild their homes and lives after the flood. I have no reason to complain.

Speaking of the flood recovery efforts...Des Moines' North High School is looking for volunteers this Saturday. They want to start cleaning up the athletic fields, concession stands and locker rooms. At this point, schools' spokesman' Phil Roeder told me you should just show up there at 9am on Saturday. You don't have to bring anything. More updates on the flood blog later this week.

Change...a Lot of It

Barack Obama promised change. And he is now going to have to raise a lot of it. Obama became the first major presidential candidate since I was six years old to decline public financing of his campaign. The New York Times catches you up on your history on this. Obama will now have to raise his own cash. I don't believe Obama fully promised to go the taxpayer route when he talked about this earlier in the campaign. But I think it's safe to say many people expected him to. John McCain has apparently decided to stick with public financing. Now I guess we'll see just how good Obama's internet-driven, money-raising machine is. Here's how Obama explains it to his supporters:

Dave --
Since we announced our decision not to accept taxpayer funds for the general election, tens of thousands of people like you have come forward to declare their independence from a broken system. This decision frees us to build a movement of millions of people giving whatever they can afford to a campaign that is truly reforming the way our political process works. It also frees us to take our campaign for change to parts of the country where Democratic presidential candidates haven't spent too much time in the past.

Our first television ad of the general election season goes on the air today.
Sure, we're on the air in places like Ohio and Florida, the typical battleground states. But we're also on the air in North Dakota, Montana, and Alaska -- places that have emerged as competitive because of the unprecedented grassroots energy supporting our campaign. These ads are supporting a 50-state ground operation that is being built right now by staff, volunteers, and thousands of Obama Organizing Fellows. But we have our work cut out for us, and we need to grow this movement. Right now, you can declare your independence and help us run a campaign that is funded by the people and for the people.

If you make your first donation today, a fellow supporter is standing by to match your gift and double your impact. You can even choose to exchange a note with them and share why you are supporting this campaign.
Add your voice to our movement by making a matching donation now:
https://donate.barackobama.com/match
Choosing not to accept these taxpayer funds was not an easy decision. I remain committed to fundamental campaign finance reform, and as president I will work to fix this broken system. But we're facing opponents who have become masters at gaming the broken system as it stands today -- collecting money from Washington lobbyists, special interest PACs, and relying on so-called 527 groups that can take unlimited contributions to peddle lies and smears. We have chosen to do things differently.

My Cardinals lose three straight to Kansas City. Then, they win the first two against Boston??? This season makes no sense. None at all.

Headlines

ALL THE NEWS THAT'S FIT TO PRINT THAT FITS

Headlines can be challenging at times. They are supposed to be attention-getting. They have to be accurate. Wednesday I wrote one on the blog titled "Fallon Still Wants Money." Ed Fallon this week sent out his second email in as many weeks asking supporters to help him pay off his $35,000 campaign debt from his failed democratic primary run against incumbent Congressman Leonard Boswell in Iowa's Third District.

Some candidates don't pay back their debts. I'm sure it's not too hard to find people Hillary Clinton still owes. Fallon called me today to say he didn't like the headline I used. He said it implies that he wants money for himself. He said he is committed to paying back the people and organizations to whom he owes money. He doesn't like any implication the money is for himself (Fallon has taken some heat from some Democrats who are unhappy that he paid his girlfriend to run his congressional campaign and pays her and himself to run a business that has, at times, promoted his congressional campaign. BTW, Despite complaints from Boswell, no state or federal agency that I know of has ruled Fallon did anything wrong).

Anyway, that's not what I implied in the headline. I wasn't implying any funds raised would go to his pocket. But I always like to give people the chance to call me on something if they don't like it. Thanks for calling. I disagree. But thanks for calling.

I know I could be opening the door to more than I may realize. But I wish more people would call us if they think they've been wronged by the media. Headlines, sentences, words, whatever...can mean something to us as we write them but can have other interpretations to others. It sucks. But it happens. And I appreciate hearing about it when it does.

My Cardinals got swept by the Royals? Ouch. I mean, I don't mind the Royals, but a sweep? And Boston and Detroit are next. Yikes.

That's all for now. BTW, my arm still hurts...four days after my tetanus shot! Is that normal?

The Long Good-bye

I just received either the second or third "thank you" kind of email from Hillary Clinton that she sent to her supporters. This one is a photo album from the campaign. Most pictures show her surrounded by female supporters. Is this part of the effort to get her on as Barack Obama's running mate?

Take a look for yourself.

Speaking of Clinton...her former Iowa spokesman Mark Daley looks like he's getting back into the private side of things, at least for a while. He just sent out a new souped up business website. Mark used to be our primary contact for the Clinton campaign before the Iowa Caucuses. It seemed like the national folks then pushed in to run things in the final months of the campaign. Clinton used to lead in the polls here. She tumbled to third. Grab your pen to draw your own conclusion, if you think one needs to be drawn here. I'm just saying...

My Arm is Sore

Should my arm still be sore three days after my tetanus shot? A co-worker talked me into getting the shot (it was free after all) while we were working on our story Monday at the flooded out Birdland Neighborhood in Des Moines. No doubt it was a good idea since we have been trudging through flood waters all week.

As the waters pull back, you get an even better sense of the damage. That neighborhood is full of stink and full of bugs. I don't know how some of these people do it. They got flooded out in 1993. Now they are flooded again. Although, if you are one of those people who say, "just move", remember, some of these people don't have much money. They especially don't have the money to just move and build a new house someplace else. Besides, who will buy their flooded-out house in the flood plain in Birdland. It's just not that easy. I wonder if the feds will look at just buying them out and making green space there. Then, maybe we won't have to worry about the next 500-year flood. When it happens again in 15 years.

Fallon Still Wants Money

Apparently, that email last week didn't bring in enough dough. Failed 3rd District Democratic Primary Candidate Ed Fallon just sent out another appeal for cash to pay off debt.

Dear Friends,

Campaigns are rough. Physically, emotionally and financially. They can leave you drained and discouraged. Especially when you lose. Especially when your opponent lies about you and assassinates your character. Especially when you realize that some of the mistakes you made might have been avoided.

I'll admit that lately I sometimes feel drained and discouraged. But I also feel blessed by the incredible, often tireless efforts of so many good people coming together to act on their passion and principles. You give me hope. You inspire me. And I want you to know that . . .

I AM NOT GIVING UP!

Lynn and I have committed our lives to public service, and as we recover from this campaign we are eager to see where the path leads next. We hope to have clarity on that by the end of the summer.

For now, the primary tasks at hand are to (1) break down and organize the extensive resources assembled in this campaign, and (2) pay-off the debt.
To meet our outstanding bills, and for my own peace of mind, I need your help to retire $35,000 in debt as quickly as possible. In the past week, we've received $3,500 from 40 donors, and another 20 people have made pledges. That's a start, and I thank you. But as someone who has always tried to live and work within his means, and who as an elected official made fiscal responsibility a key priority, debt bothers me a lot and I won't feel at ease until it's paid-off.

Many losing candidates finish in the red; but having run eight previous campaigns in the black, campaign debt is a new experience for me. If you can help with $50 or $100 - or more or less as your means allow - I would be very grateful. You can mail a check to Fallon for Congress, 752 16th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314. Or you can donate on-line at www.fallonforcongress.com. If you need to call, Lynn and I can be reached at (515) 201-9405.

Thank you. I continue to be enriched and encouraged by your confidence, support and commitment. If you would like to visit personally for any reason, just let me know.

Sincerely,
Ed Fallon

Fallon Wants Money

Defeated Third District Congressional Candidate Ed Fallon is claiming a "partial victory" and asking for money. No, it doesn't appear he is running for office again. But Fallon says his campaign is $35,000 in debt, so he is asking supporters to help him pay his bills by mid-July. Here's his note to supporters:

Our Partial VictoryDear Friends,

Last Tuesday's primary election was disappointing, but we're not quitting. We didn't beat the political establishment but we sure shook it up. In fact, Leonard Boswell's voting record and rhetoric over the past seven months look, well . . . almost progressive!
Having voted for the Iraq War in 2002 and for funding it unconditionally until earlier last year, he finally settled on a consistent position against the war last November.
Despite being a long-time supporter of granting retroactive immunity to telecom companies for aiding the Bush Administration in spying on Americans, he switched his position this year.
In 2001, he voted against an amendment raising fuel economy standards to 27.5 miles per gallon. Yet last December, he finally endorsed the Safe Climate Act, which raises fuel economy standards to 35 miles per gallon.
After voting for much of President Bush's agenda for almost eight years, he joined other House Democrats last November to support Dennis Kucinich's resolution to impeach Dick Cheney.
In its brochures and advertisements this year, the Boswell campaign invented a whole new Congressman Boswell, one who sounded a lot more like a member of the Progressive Caucus, not the Blue Dog Caucus.In short, BECAUSE OF OUR CAMPAIGN, CONGRESSMAN BOSWELL BEGAN VOTING AND SOUNDING MORE LIKE A DEMOCRAT. Now it's up to us to make sure he continues.
So, although last Tuesday's election wasn't the victory we wanted, we accomplished much. This month, Lynn's focus as campaign manager is to organize and harness the extensive resources assembled during this campaign. My focus is to pay off our campaign debt, something I've never had to deal with before.
Yes, we have campaign debt, and I need your help to retire it. In eight previous campaigns, I finished in the black, so this is a new experience for me. I have to raise about $35,000, and I need to get it done by mid-July. If enough of you pitch-in with $50 (or more if possible), I should be able to reach that goal. To help, mail a check to Fallon for Congress, 752 16th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 or donate on-line at www.fallonforcongress.com.
Thanks again for traveling this difficult journey with us. Your support and encouragement gives me hope for our future.
Sincerely,
Ed Fallon

Away From the Floods

When I first arrived in Tampa, Florida Monday, rain was pending. I was complaining. No excuses for my complaints. I've been trying to keep track of the flooding in central Iowa via the internet. I can't believe how bad it is getting. To read that some are saying this flood will be worse than 1993. I just can't believe it. We shouldn't have ever seen those levels again.

I worked in radio in St. Louis during that flood. At the time, I was a writer for KMOX, the dominant radio station in the area. Because of the flood, the union gave me an exemption, so I could work "on-air" (since I wasn't a union member, normally I couldn't appear on the air). I did "KMOX Floodcenter Updates" at five minutes before the top of the hour. I also did some reporting. I never expected to again see the flooding I saw then. Floodaters took over small towns like Grafton, Illinois. They also closed in on the St. Louis Arch on the riverfront. Those are memories I don't think I'll ever forget.

I definitely have no business complaining here in Florida. None at all.

Time For Some Sun

This is the only view of water I hope to really have for the next week. So much flooding in central Iowa right now. It's really unbelievable. My best to everyone dealing with the flood waters that just keep closing in. I know the "volunteer spirit" is such a cliche. But it's really cool to see so many people offering to help others in need right now. Despite concerns about our economy and our country, so many people still feel the need to help a neighbor. Iowa really is a cool place.

We're off to Florida for a week for a wedding. The best part, besides seeing my wife's side of the family, is walking the sand on Anna Maria Island. I can't wait.


Perhaps, with my free time, I'll check out a newly updated website. Democrats criticized 4th District Republican Congressman Tom Latham for not saying much about that federal raid of the Agriprocessors meatpacking plant in Postville. But at least he has a new website. Just in time for the fall campaign season. There is now a bit on there about the raid. Happy reading.

Swingtown

There is a new show on tv. It's called "Swingtown." A bunch of couples swap lovers in their suburban Chicago neighborhood in the 1970s. The show just started airing, but it's already drawn critics. Apparently, some groups are pushing viewers to flood tv stations with complaint emails. The American Family Association is one of those groups. Here's a hint. Make sure you send your complaint email to a station that actually airs the show! The show airs on CBS stations. My station is an NBC affiliate. So quit sending us your form letter email, threatening us. It won't do any good! There's no swinging going on.

Here's what the form letter looks like:


Bill Brouwer
701 Newcastle Road
Marshalltown, IA 50158-5253

June 8, 2008
WHO (NBC-13)
1801 Grand Ave
Des Moines, IA 50309

Dear WHO (NBC-13):
I am offended by the content of the CBS program "Swingtown." The offensive content clearly violates our local community standards and does not reflect your license obligation "to serve the public interest."
I urge you to refuse to air future episodes of "Swingtown."
I also ask you to place a copy of my complaint in your files according to FCC regulations.
Sincerely,

Bill and Julie Brouwer

Toss Up

MSNBC's First Read just let out how it sees the Prez race stacking up. It looks like Iowa can expect lots o'ttention this fall.

Base Obama: CA, CT, DE, DC, HI, IL, MD, MA, NY, RI, VT (153 electoral votes)
Lean Obama: ME, NJ, MN, OR, WA (47 votes)
Toss-up: CO, FL, IA, MI, NV, NM, NH, OH, PA, VA, WI (138 votes)
Lean McCain: AR, GA, IN, LA, MS, MO, MT, NE, NC, ND (84 votes)
Base McCain: AL, AK, AZ, ID, KS, KY, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, WV, WY (116 votes)

Ballary Oblinton

Obama? Clinton? Barack? Hillary? The choice went back and forth for months. Now that Obama has claimed victory, it will soon be time for him to claim his choice for a running mate.

Hillary Clinton seemed to campaign for it Tuesday night. She does have a lot of followers. And imagine the history-making potential of this team... the first African-American President AND the first female Vice-President. But are two firsts one too many? Too much Clinton baggage to carry around to the White House?

Here's Hubler

Rob Hubler just took the stage. About half of the room who is left here at the Leonard Boswell victory party at the Hotel Ft. Des Moines is still talking. Supporters of the 5th District Democratic nominee, Hubler, have shhh-d the crowd several times. But it hasn't worked. Boswell just left. Hubler continues on with his speech.

He said the Sioux City media can't say his last name correctly. They say "HUBB-lehr", he said. He wanted to know how the Des Moines media would say his name. I don't know anyone in the media will be saying his name tonight though.

Still the One

"Still the One" by Orleans just filled the room here at the Hotel Fort Des Moines. Much like everyone in this room expected, Leonard Boswell has defeated Ed Fallon in the 3rd District Primary. He just gave his short victory speech. Five minutes long. A very interesting thing he mentioned...Fallon didn't call him to congratulate him for his win (and admit his own defeat) before Fallon gave his speech and then Boswell gave his. Boswell said he was surprised he didn't get the call. It is tradition, after all.

I just talked with the Congressman. He said Fallon has now called. BTW, Boswell also talked to me a bit about the Presidential race. He acknowledged the race is "probably" over. And he would love to see Clinton on Obama's ticket.

The Crowd Is Gathering

It's 9:30pm--The room is filling up here at the Leonard Boswell victory party at the Hotel Fort Des Moines. I haven't seen the Congressman since he passed through about 6pm. I have seen Kevin Miskell, one of the four challengers for the Dems 4th District Primary. The winner gets to speak here tonight if it's decided early enough.

The crowd gathered around the two tv sets in here to listen to Hillary Clinton's concession speech. Oh, that's right. She didn't concede. A little while later, the crowd listened in when Barack Obama gave his speech where he announced he's won the nomination (despite Clinton's lack of a concession). People here seemed more interested in his speech than watching the Boswell-Fallon returns on the other tv set in here. Although, as Obama's speech went on, the crowd seemed to split between the two tv sets.

A lot of optimism here.

He Has Arrived

Leonard Boswell just strolled by here in the Wedgwood Room at the Hotel Fort Des Moines. He smiled and waved. Seems happy and content. I wonder what he thinks of the Presidential race. He's a Hillary Clinton supporter. That's not looking so good right now.

Boswell will have some company here at his victory party (or so he hopes it's a victory party). The State Party Chair Scott Brennan should also be here, as will the winner of the 4th District Congressional race. That's a good way to get some tv face time. I wonder though how this will all shape out time wise. Clinton, McCain and Obama are all scheduled to give speeches tonight. Obama, by the time he takes the podium, could have this race officially clinched. So people will want to hear if he declares victory. And, of course, everyone will want to listen to see how Clinton handles herself during her speech. Will it be all about what she's accomplished? Will she congratulate Obama? Will she officially give up? And what will McCain have to say about it all? Of course, selfishly, I want to know, when will they all say it? Will they get in the way of Boswell's speech here? Timing is everything.

Sure Is Quiet Here

Not much going on in the Wedgwood here at the Hotel Ft. Des Moines. This is the site of what Leonard Boswell hopes is a victory celebration tonight. Ed Fallon is only a block away at the Raccoon River Brew Pub. That could make for an interesting scene at some point if they both hit the sidewalk at the same time.

This is a small room, probably half the size of the other ballroom candidates usually use on election night. I mean, sure, there are balloons, signs, pretzels and a stage. And it looks like popcorn bags, which means that irresistible smell will likely soon permeate the place. But I digress... Anyway, it's pretty quiet in here.

The absentee vote in Polk County looks big. That could mean a good night for Boswell. The Democratic machine is good at turning out the early vote. Turnout doesn't seem so big, at least not yet, in Fallon's turf in Sherman Hill. Overall, Polk Co does look big, maybe rivaling 2006. That would be impressive since that was a 3-way Democratic primary for Governor.

Previously undeclared superdelegates are pouring in for Barack Obama. Tom Harkin, are you ready yet?

So You Like This Race, Huh?

Looks like the 3rd District is stirred up a bit about this Leonard Boswell-Ed Fallon race. Polk Co Auditor Jamie Fitzgerald says turnout may approach 2006's level. Big deal, you might say? Well, it kind of is. In 2006 you'll remember we had the 3-way Democratic primary between Fallon, Chet Culver and Mike Blouin.

Is high turnout good for Fallon or Boswell? It likely depends where the turnout is. If Fallon turns them out in the Sherman Hill area, his home base, he could make this interesting. But if the heavy turnout comes elsewhere, could that be a sign it's a Boswell night?

What I'm Watching

Primary day. It just doesn't quite have the same ring to it as caucus night. But, oh, well. It'll still be interesting. Here's what I'm watching...

The Boz/Fallon--It's tough to beat an incumbent. Can Ed Fallon do it? Will his grassroots effort, without the last-minute ad blitz Leonard Boswell has put up, be enough in what looks like a "change election?" Boswell has the establishment behind him, plus six terms in Congress. Fallon has his organization from when he ran from Governor, whether that was once or almost twice. Plus, that business on the side..

Tom Harkin vs. ???--The Repubs hardly offer up household names in their U.S. primary battle. George Eichhorn seems to have the establishment behind him. Christopher Reed got some props from some of the people I talked with after their debate last Friday on Iowa Public Television. Steve Rathje...? He skipped the debate for some reason. I avoided having to make sure I didn't butcher his name. I'm still not 100% sure how to say it. Is it RATH'-gee or ROTH'-gee?

The 4 in 4--4 Dems running to eventually run against Republican Tom Latham in the 4th Congressional district. Becky Greenwald feels like she has more of the establishment behind her. Kevin Miskell has Joe Trippi, one of Howard Dean and John Edwards top guys. Kurt Meyer and William Meyers...will voters get confused by their last names?

Altoona District 42--Dems Geri Huser vs. Matt Ballard. Huser's been in the legislature for a dozen years now. Ballard is the local Teamsters president. Huser's, Ed Skinner, has power and money. Will he really "let" her lose in a primary? Can Ballard get the union folks to all stand up behind him?

Johnston District 69--Repubs Eric Helland vs. Al Lorenzen. Helland has been hitting Lorenzen hard with tv ads. Helland has the backing of the Right to Life and the Iowa Taxpayer folks. He's hitting Lorenzen has a Johnny, er, Al Come Lately to the Republican Party. Lorenzen says one one of the most beloved Republicans of them all in Iowa, former Governor Bob Ray, encouraged him to run.

Tom Harkin--Yeah, I know he's not on the ballot (well, technically he is. But you know what I mean). But will he finally get off the fence and endorse a Presidential candidate today/tonight? It seems unlikely Hillary Clinton would officially drop out tonight. But there are reports some superdelegates (who don't come out before the polls close) will endorse after the polls close. Harkin's wife, Ruth, is a big Clinton backer.

The Night Before

Twas the night before primary day and all through the trail, almost no one was stirring, not even a congressman. So much for a fast and furious end to the 3rd District democratic congressional race. No all day barnstorming across the district. No late night rallies so tv reporters could do their "live shots" for the late news. Instead, Leonard Boswell's campaign told me he had no public events. Ed Fallon did send out a schedule to say he would be live on a radio talk show. That's about it.

Perhaps, they've already said all that needs to be said. Boswell ran a gazillion tv commercials. Fallon hasn't run any tv ads. He would seem to need a lot of grass in his grassroots movement to overcome all that the incumbency affords Boswell. Fallon, who's a recent John Edwards to Barack Obama convert, has to hope the "change" message doesn't just work in the presidential race.

So is the conventional wisdom that if turnout is high, that would help Fallon? The Sec of State's office expects statewide turnout at 12 to 15%. That's about what it was four years ago.

Politics in Church

I can't ever imagine any of the pastors in any of the churches I have attended in any of the four states I have lived to put on a skit about a Presidential candidate wiping away tears, clearly mocking her. Isn't there supposed to be separation of church and state? I thought churches get the tax exemptions they do if they keep politics away from the pulpit. So what exactly is going on in Barack Obama's church? Or as I now should say, former church. Is this kind of talk happening at other churches and I just don't know it?



It is a no-brainer, a no-brainer that Obama had better expect question after question about what he heard when he sat in the pews at his former church. He never heard any comments similar to the ones making the rounds on YouTube now?

IPGOTV Thanks for the kind comments and emails you've given me after my first shot at moderating a debate. I moderated the two man contest Friday at Iowa Public Television studios between George Eichhorn and Christopher Reed. No, I still don't know why Steve Rathje opted not to take part. Although, Eichhorn and Reed had a few ideas. And, yes, this event, sponsored by the Polk County Republicans did run at the same time as the Republican Party of Iowa's Lincoln Dinner. Two Republican events for supporters at the same time. One county party event. One state party event. Polk Co. Chair Ted Sporer and State Chair Stew Iverson--can you feel the love tonight?

And, no, for the record, I didn't run 5 miles before the debate. The lights were really that hot. I kept trying to subtly wipe away what felt like buckets of sweat pouring down my face. It was foreshadowing for Dam to Dam the next day. I ran 2:07:13. Not the sub-2 hour race I wanted. And our softball team just fell to 0-3 for the season. Not quite the athletic week of champions.

The Big Fish

Iowa Repubs will get a look at who should be their best catch to beat Democratic U.S. Senator Tom Harkin. Yeah, I know. That was lame. But I needed to a reason to show off my brother Jake's 8 1/2 pound Channel Catfish he just pulled in at Carlyle Lake in southern Illinois.

Tonight, I will debate a forum between two of the three R's who want to knock Harkin out of office. For some reason, Steve Rathje, a Cedar Rapids businessman, has decided he doesn't want to take part in this debate and turn down the chance to go statewide for an hour. For free. In this race of little-known challengers with little money in the bank, it's beyond me why Rathje doesn't want to do this. Iowa Public TV seems to have bent over backwards to let him in at the last minute. They gave him 'til noon. But no change in plans. Oh, well, we'll need one fewer chair.

George Eichhorn, the Stratford attorney, and Christopher Reed, a Marion businessman, will get to make their case. It's my first live debate as a moderator. I hope I don't confuse Reed with the other Christopher, you know, Superman. My mom and dad are in the crowd, too. No pressure, not at all. And I'll try not to think of the fact that in too few hours after this hour-long 9pm debate wraps up, I have to step off in Saylorville for Dam to Dam. Dam.

Amazing

I wish I could find the right word to describe what I saw in Parkersburg. It has to be one of the most overwhelming sight I've ever seen. Definitely the worst tornado damage I've seen covering bad weather in seven years in Iowa. I do remember seeing a horrible aftermath in Oklahoma City in the late 90s. It seemed like that damage was even more widespread. But both are just mind boggling.

I can't imagine what it's like for the people of Parkersburg. Imagine losing her home. Some lost family members, too. They lost their vehicles. They lost their businesses. So they have no place to live, nothing to drive and no place to work. How do they not just collapse and sob?

One of the most telling sites I saw was what used to be an empty field. Now it's become a junkyard that keeps growing. It has more than 200 vehicles. Although, vehicles isn't the right word anymore. They are just scraps. Mangled scraps. Each vehicle has some items in it. They may or may not actually be items from the owners of the vehicles. With the way the storm hit, there's hardly any way to tell. I found the insurance card in one from one of the men who died. It took our breath away. We didn't know how to react. I found a broken fishing pole in one. Wedding reception napkins in another. A wedding invitation in another. There was a flattened stroller. It is just incomprehensible the damage to these vehicles. Each one looks like the result of the worst traffic accident you've ever seen. Except there wasn't just one.

HRC: RFK, Ok?

Hillary Clinton doesn't think she should quit the race yet because of a former President and a man who was murdered trying to become President? Here's what she told the Sioux Falls Argus Leader.

"My husband did not wrap up the nomination in 1992 until he won the California primary somewhere in the middle of June, right? We all remember Bobby Kennedy was assassinated in June in California. I don't understand it," she said, dismissing calls to drop out."



On "Meet the Press" Tim Russert pointed out that Bill Clinton actually had the nomination wrapped up in April (although Clintonian semantics may argue otherwise). But clearly, that's the afterthought in this statement. Was she really saying she shouldn't quit because of the chance of an assassination of Barack Obama? Really? What do the Clinton-should-be-the-Vice-President people think of this? Do you really think comments like these will help her chances?

Lynn Sweet of the Chicago Sun Times included former Iowa Gov and big time Clinton supporter, Tom Vilsack, in the first tier of possibilities for Obama's running mate. Vilsack's inclusion seems a bit curious. He helped lead Clinton's efforts in Iowa. And Clinton finished third. He doesn't exactly speak well about Obama. Where would Vilsack help Obama?

The baseball season is now nearly 1/3 of the way completed. At some point, my Cardinals may need to be considered contenders. "May" is still the key word there. But what a surprise. The same could be said for the Tampa Bay Rays. Who knew all they would have to do was get rid of the "devil" in their name and then they would have the best record in baseball?

Breaking News: Agriprocessors CEO Out

It's only been the illegal immigrants prosecuted by the feds so far, but it looks like there will be some punishment at Agriprocessors in Postville following that big raid. The owner's son is apparently out of his job (Sholom Rubashkin is the owner's son). Here's the release:

Agriprocessors Announces Leadership Change

POSTVILLE, IA (May 23, 2008) – Aaron Rubashkin, the owner of Agriprocessors, Inc., announced today that the company will hire a new chief executive officer.
“The best course of action for the company, its employees, the local community and our customers is to bring new leadership to Agriprocessors,” Rubashkin said. “The company has begun the search for a new permanent chief executive officer. We have engaged a team of industry experts to help us identify and secure a new leader who can help us meet the needs of Agriprocessors today and in the future. We will make more information on the search process available by the end of next week.”

Agriprocessors has long been committed to its workers and the local community, and to providing innovative and quality products.
The company is conducting an independent investigation of the circumstances which led to the recent worksite enforcement action, and is fully cooperating with the government. The company can not respond to specific allegations due to pending legal issues.

No Time to Debate

Leonard Boswell is still apparently too busy to debate Ed Fallon before the Democratic primary in the 3rd Congressional District. A bunch of lefty groups are putting together a forum next Wednesday. Fallon will be there. Boswell won't. An empty chair will take his place. Here's the latest press release to demonstrate the Congressman's busy-ness:

Congressman Boswell’s District Schedule
May 24 – May 28

Saturday, May 24 Des Moines Event
2:30 p.m. Boswell will speak at an event honoring former Congressman Neal Smith and dedicating the newly renamed Neal Smith Federal Building.
Neal Smith Federal Building
210 Walnut Street
Des Moines

Monday, May 28 Des Moines Event
7:15 a.m. Boswell will attend the S.O.S. (Stuff on a Shingle) authentic military breakfast, and appear on the Van and Bonnie Morning Show.
Camp Dodge
7105 NW 70th Ave.
Des Moines
9:00 a.m. Des Moines Event
Boswell will attend a World War I memorial service.
E 6th Street & University
Des Moines
10:00 a.m. Des Moines Event
Boswell will attend an event honoring veterans of the Korean & Vietnam Wars.
Korean & Vietnam War Memorials
State Capitol grounds
Des Moines
11:00 a.m. Des Moines Event
Boswell will attend a veterans’ memorial service.
Vets Auditorium, south Gaskell Room on the balcony level
833 5th Ave.
Des Moines

Tuesday May 27 Des Moines Event
2:00 p.m. Boswell will speak at the RaySociety event honoring World War II veterans.
Drake University
Harmon Fine Arts Center
25th & Carpenter
Des Moines

Wednesday May 28 Des Moines Event
10:00 a.m. Boswell will attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Corporate Headquarters Building.
Grand Ave. & 14th Street, SW corner
Des Moines

Fuel Fuming

"Soaring Toward Insanity". I wish I would have come up with it. It's the lead headline in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, talking about gas prices. Seriously. This is out of control. It seems like we're doing what we're supposed to. We're carpooling. We're combining trips. We're buying more fuel-efficient cars. This is a joke. How can prices keep going up like this? Will those hearings in Washington, D.C. actually accomplish something? What can we consumers do? Better yet, what can elected officials do?

My family had some really lean years (that's saying this euphemistically) during the recession in the late 70s. I remember how tough it was for my mom and dad putting food on the table, paying the heating bill, finding a car that would run, etc. I really don't honestly see how lower-income people can do it right now. Food prices are good up a bunch. Gas prices are ridiculous. I just don't see how they do it.

I did a story yesterday on the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority. The Rideshare program seems like a no brainer. DART gives you a van, if you want to be the driver. You get free transportation and free gas, plus you get 200 personal miles a month. I interviewed a human relations guy from Principal yesterday. He figures he saves about 4 grand a year plus. And it only "costs" him about 15 minutes extra time in the a.m. picking up the other passengers. Seems like quite a deal. And his passengers pay monthly fee to DART. It works out to be roughly about a quarter as much as they'd spend if they drove themselves to work solo every day.

Two for the Price of 1

What do you make of this? Is this Hillary Clinton's graceful exit. I just received this from an "Iowa Democratic Heavyweight".

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 22, 2008

IOWA DEMOCRATIC HEAVYWEIGHT ENDORSES DREAM TICKET CAMPAIGN

Veteran Presidential Campaign Strategist Jerry Crawford
Calls for Unity Ticket, Praises VoteBoth.com

DES MOINES, IA--Veteran Democratic Party leader Jerry Crawford today endorsed a “dream ticket” with both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, saying it is time for the Party to unite regardless of who wins the nomination. “This election is more important than Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton,” Crawford said. “For the sake of our Party and our country, Barack and Hillary need to take a hard look at running together.”

“Right now, our Party is brother against brother, literally—my brother is for Barack and I support Hillary. Soon we are all going to have to do what VoteBoth is doing--take a deep breath and have a serious conversation about how Democrats win in November.”

Crawford, a Des Moines native, is widely renowned as one of the Party’s savviest strategists and fundraisers. He has chaired the Iowa campaigns of the previous five Democratic nominees: John Kerry, Al Gore, Bill Clinton (twice), and Michael Dukakis. Crawford initially backed Tom Vilsack’s unsuccessful White House bid and last year endorsed Clinton, who named him her Midwest Co-Chair.

Since Crawford chaired the Dukakis campaign’s Iowa bid in 1988, the Democratic nominee has won the Hawkeye State every four years except in 2004, when George W. Bush edged out John Kerry by a razor-thin 49.9%-49.23% margin. Iowa is a must-win state for Democrats in November.

Crawford joins the growing ranks of prominent Democrats supporting a unity ticket with both Obama and Clinton. Representatives David Scott (GA) and Stephanie Tubbs Jones (OH), both outspoken advocates for Obama and Clinton, respectively, argued Monday that a unity ticket was essential for victory in November. Other unity ticket backers include Governor Ed Rendell (PA), former Governor Mario M. Cuomo (NY), Senator Charles E. Schumer (NY), and DLC chairman and former Congressman Harold Ford, Jr. (TN).

Does Size Matter?

Go ahead. Insert your Viagra/Cialis joke here. Does size matter? I mean, when it comes to crowds. Barack Obama drew about 7,500 last night in downtown Des Moines for his first post-caucus visit. John McCain's return run brought in about 250. By my math, that means Obama brought 30 times as many peeps. What does it mean? Obama's people say it proves Obama has all the mojo. Senator Chuck Grassley, on behalf of McCain, told us polls matter more than rally size (I'll be curious what he says about polls later on in the campaign).

Majority Rules

It's 8:20pm. Barack Obama just sent out an email to supporters saying that he has now claimed enough delegates to give him the majority. Here's the email:

Dave --

The polls are closed in Kentucky and votes are being counted in Oregon, and it's clear that tonight we have reached a major milestone on this journey. We have won an absolute majority of all the delegates chosen by the people in this Democratic primary process.
From the beginning, this journey wasn't about me or the other candidates. It was about a simple choice -- will we continue down the same road with the same leadership that has failed us for so long, or will we take a different path?

Too many of us have been disappointed by politics and politicians more times than you can count. We've seen promises broken and good ideas drowned in a sea of influence, point-scoring, and petty bickering that has consumed Washington. Yet, in spite of all the doubt and disappointment -- or perhaps because of it -- people have stood for change.
Unfortunately, our opponents in the other party continue to embrace yesterday's policies and they will continue to employ yesterday's tactics -- they will try to change the subject, and they will play on fears and divisions to distract us from what matters to you and your future.
But those tactics will not work in this election.

They won't work because you won't let them. Not this time. Not this year.
We still have work to do to in the remaining states, where we will compete for every delegate available. But tonight, I want to thank you for everything you have done to take us this far -- farther than anyone predicted, expected, or even believed possible. And I want to remind you that you will make all the difference in the epic challenge ahead.

Thank you,
Barack Obama

He's on His Way

I'm told Barack Obama just landed at the Des Moines International Airport. Meantime, the Faculty Lounge, a local band here made up of area teachers, has been entertaining the crowd here in the East Village area of downtowno Des Moines. That crowd just keeps coming. The campaign expected 10-11,000. We'll see how the numbers come in. You know how the camps try to low ball their estimates. The line shows a lot of people still haven't made it inside.

It's actually getting a little chilly out here. Not cold. But chilly, now that the sun is going down. I doubt these packed in peeps will feel much of the chill though. I'm sitting way too close to Shane's Rib Shacks. That's not fair. I'm trying to watch the diet now that I'm less than two weeks away from running Dam to Dam. Damn barbecue.

Waiting for Obama

It's nearly 8pm here in downtown Des Moines. It's already been a long day. These waiting-for-the-Presidential-candidate events definitely aren't quick. The afternoon started with a little excitement, almost too much excitement. We have to drop off our equipment, so the secret service can check through it all before events like this one for Barack Obama tonight.

We were told we could pick up our equipment and get into our place on the media riser at 4:30. 4:30 came and went and so did many media's patience. Many of us needed to be in place for our 5pm live shots on the news. It was close. Producers back at the station kept calling wondering if we were going to make it. At about 4:45pm, the secret service started letting us come through the security line. We made it onto the media riser by 4:52pm. Crisis averted.

I'm hearing there may be 10-11,000 here tonight. It's a far cry from the 75,000 who came out to hear Obama in Portland, Oregon. But let's not forget those Oregonians don't get much of a chance to see these v.i.p.'s like we do in Iowa.

From where I'm sitting, I can see the line stretching on the ends of two different blocks. This place will be packed. I can't imagine many of these people will even get to see a glimpse of Obama. You would hope they can at least hear him.

The Obama folks say this won't be a victory speech here tonight. But I bet it will come close. I'm sure Obama won't dog on Hillary Clinton. Expect a little praise for her, no praise for John McCain and a lot of praise for Iowans. It all started here, remember. And I doubt Obama will let any of these people here tonight forget it.

Nor will he let people across the country forget. Make that people across the world. There are about 300 media members here, someone from the Obama campaign just told me. I've already seen Japan and German crews. I'm sure there are many more.

You wonder if Iowans are tired of this yet. Or maybe January to May was enough of a break. I guess we'll know once we see how many people come here.

Welcome Back, Barry

(Photo Courtesy: AFP)

I wonder what Hillary Clinton thought when she saw pictures like these from Oregon. 75,000 people (or so it's estimated) came to see hear Barack Obama in Portland. It doesn't look like Obama will officially have the nomination secured when he comes to downtown Des Moines Tuesday night. But he might be able to say by then he has a majority of delegates.

What kind of crowd will greet him in Des Moines? It's scheduled as an outdoor rally. Will it sound like a victory party?

ETC.

We got our butts kicked in softball again Sunday. We're 0-2 so far. Man, I felt old. We played a bunch of guys who clearly shouldn't have been playing in our league. High school/college age, mostly. Young punks.

Random Questions

Just a few questions to end the night...

What changed for John Edwards? Why is he now good with Barack Obama for President?

Does Hillary Clinton really think she can still win? Is she just campaigning to raise money to pay off her debt?

Will the unions hold a grudge against Governor Chet Culver for vetoing that collective bargaining bill? Does the Gov care? Or was he thinking ahead to the elections, both in 08 and his in 2010?

Who finally convinced Culver he was wrong to take that 9% pay raise at a time the news is full of layoffs, foreclosures and higher gas and food prices?

How painful will it be to see Jimmy Edmonds in a Cubs uniform when his new team returns to Busch Stadium in St. Louis July 4th?

Will it possibly hurt as much as seeing Jason Isringhausen's next appearance for the Cards? Ouch. It hurts already.