Gustav for dinner

O.K., I realize this isn't p.c. to say...but will Hurricane Gustav actually help the Republicans politically? I know it's probably not even right to bring this up. But here's what I mean. Republicans avoid the uncomfortable conversations about the unpopular president and v.p., who are both now skipping the convention (yes, I know both men remain very popular with a certain sect of the Republican party--but polls show they're clearly not very well-liked by the rest of the country). Even die hard Repubs with whom I've talked don't really expect John McCain to nail a speech like Barack Obama typically does (although they were hoping for a good showing from his v.p. choice, Sarah Palin).

But because of the hurrican, McCain now gets the chance to show he's on top of leading the country as he responds/plans for Gustav. Outside of McCain and Palin (maybe Palin more so), how many Repubs had highly anticipated convention speeches planned, compared to the buildup of Hillary and Bill? This way, it would seem, Repubs can now focus on getting ready for Gustav, and heaven forbid, if the Gulf Coast hits hard, they can focus on rescue and recovery. Just some thoughts...again, probably not very p.c.







A subject much less deep (can you tell I haven't eaten dinner yet?) , who knew Gustav is a good place to go eat? A restaurant chain of the same name has a group of places on the West Coast. Who knew?


Speaking of eating...well, not really, let the fat lady sing. My Cardinals, after their three-day, weekend-long butt-whoopin' by the annoying Astros essentially end this overachieving season. It hurts. A lot.

Sarah Palin?

Why didn't I go with my gut? Wuss. I really felt John McCain might want to try to pit history vs. history. Barack Obama is working to become the first african-american prez. McCain could find a woman running mate and go for something similar. But repubs just don't seem to really have a lot of well-known female executive-types...like a governor.

I searched through female republican governors. There were only a few. Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin's name stood out. At 44, she's quite young (at 38 now, that makes me feel good to write that 44 is quite young:) She is VERY little known across the country. Had you ever heard of her? She's a first term governor, a former mayor, a mother of five. McCain has definitely found a way to infuse a little intrigue and excitement into the race. I wonder when he made this choice. Did he see the video of teary-eyed Obama supporters and a jam-packed football stadium in Denver at the Democratic National Convention? Did that make him feel like he had to do something to regain some mojo.

What's also interesting to me is that the McCain camp had been ripping on Obama's pick of Joe Biden. Supporters said it shows that Obama knows he's weak on experience and foreign policy and that's why he picked Biden. How can McCain now not get grilled for picking someone to help his possible "weaknesses"? McCain turns 72 today. He's been in Washington longer than many of Obama's supporters have been alive. Will he convince voters that Palin, who is now only a heartbeat away from the Oval Office, is ready? Social conservatives haven't been all that hot on McCain. Palin, once social cons get to know her, would seem to make them pretty happy.

I just emailed former Governor Tom Vilsack. I told him last week Palin was my dark-horse pick for McCain. I wanted to make myself feel better, I guess. I should have gone with my gut and picked Palin yesterday. Wuss.

BTW, I just tried (it's 10:09am) to google Palin. Her website in the Alaska governor's office seems overloaded right now. I can't get it to open. I bet a lot of people right now are "searching" her right now to see who she is.

McCain's V.P.

Tomorrow by this time we should know who John McCain thinks can help him get to the White House. No tech-savvy text message in the middle of the night for this one, it doesn't sound like. So who will it be? I lucked out by picking Joe Biden as Barack Obama's number two. We'll see if lightning can strike twice.

Mitt Romney--pretty well-known. very successful businessman. But this would give the ticket two really rich dudes. Would Mac go for that after the "I don't know how many homes I own" debacle?

Charlie Crist--well-tanned. popular Florida Gov--big state. But this would be the two white-haired dudes ticket. Would that really help McCain will voters who think he's too old to be Prez--an elderly white-haired man with a middle-aged white-haired man?

a woman--this would seem to offer the chance to steal some of the "history" that Obama can bring. Maybe a woman governor. I really only find one that realistically fits: Alaska Governor Sarah Palin. She might be too young. She's only 42. She's not well-known at all. And with all the corruption cases involving Republican leaders in Alaska, would it be a good idea to pick a running mate from that state? There's Texas Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison. She's probably better known. But would Texas be a problem? Maybe this is a stretch, but with the other Texan's horrible approval ratings right now, would Mac really want someone from Texas?

Tim Pawlenty--younger than Mac. obviously. As gov of Minnesota, could he help deliver that state and then give Mac a shot in neighboring Iowa, too?

This history part of a woman pick would seem to offer quite a bit. But for what it's worth (nothing, I assure you), my pick is Pawlenty.

BTW, I left out Joe Lieberman. An Iowa democratic legislator told me this week McCain and Lieberman talked a lot during Mac's Iowa campaigning and the two are genuinely very close. I wonder if McCain would really like to choose Lieberman. The unity thing, you know. But I'm still going with Pawlenty. We'll see if lightning can strike twice.

An Interesting 24 Hours

I awakened at about 2:40 this morning to hear someone sitting in a cab in front of my neighbor's house yelling on the phone about how the taxi driver was "tripping" and that he wasn't going to pay the fare. He said he wanted the police to come and give the driver a drug test. This ridiculous, and apparently drunken, commotion went on for about 15 minutes. Then, I couldn't go back to sleep for nearly an hour. It's time to meet the new neighbors.

My wife had an early flight to go see family in Tampa, so we were up (again) at 5am. At 10:30, I had a tooth drilled (a cavity near the gum line. Not a good place for it.) It's 1:30pm now and I still don't really have much feeling in my right side of the mouth, part of my tongue and about half of my lip. Lunch this afternoon my be called dinner this evening.

Looks like Shawn Johnson gets a little more post-Olympic spotlight. She should get to lead the Democratic National Convention in Denver in the pledge around 4pm. My colleague, Keith Murphy tells me, this isn't any kind of political statement. And according to Shawn's agent, she would also be willing to head the Republican Convention in the Twin Cities next week. I'm sure by this point, Shawn wouldn't have the energy for politics. That girl must be exhausted by now. She deserves a nice long vacation...while her agent hopefully makes her and her family rich for life.

BAM-BAM

(skip ahead to 1:14 into this clip)

Governor Chet Culver just received his five minutes of non-prime-time fame at the Democratic National Convention. He thanked the country, ripped on McCain and screwed up Obama's name (he called him--phonetically-oh-BAM-ah, instead of, of course, oh-BAHM-ah). Oops.

Here's the text of his speech:

The long journey to this historic convention began on a cold winter's night in the great State of Iowa! So, I'm honored to join you – more than seven months and seven hundred miles from the site of that first contest, as we unite to make Barack Obama the next President of the United States. This summer, in Iowa, we saw the motivating power of hope and determination when our state was hit with one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history. Despite three tornados and 500 year flood levels, countless Americans rallied to help us. So, on behalf of every Iowan, I want to say "thank you" for assisting us in our time of need. We will get through this difficult challenge! We know the Iowa values of faith, hard work and common sense will guide us and strengthen us, as we rebuild an even better, safer, and stronger state. Today I stand proudly with Barack Obama and Joe Biden – no strangers to Iowa who share our heartland values!
When they are in the White House, our country will once again rise to meet the great challenges of our time. And, on the top of that list of challenges is securing our energy future!
For the last eight years, the big oil companies and their Washington lobbyists have literally written our national energy policies. They have made billions, while the rest of us are paying the bill. Now the oil companies are placing their bets on John McCain – bankrolling his campaign and gambling with our future. McCain has voted against tax credits for renewable energy eleven times, and his only idea to solve our energy crisis is to keep doing what we're doing as we watch prices go up and up and up. Barack Obama understands our need for change. Only Barack Obama has a detailed plan to give us the change we need - lower energy prices and more "green-collar jobs!" If anyone still doubts whether renewable energy can lower prices and create jobs, look no further than Iowa. We have invested hundreds of millions of dollars in renewable energy, created more than 100,000 good-paying jobs, and provided clean alternatives to overpriced, foreign oil. Iowa is fast becoming the renewable energy capital of the United States – and other states, like Colorado, are doing the same. All around the country, entrepreneurs and innovators are joining state and local governments on exciting, cutting-edge projects. Just think how we'll do when we have a president who shares our vision. Barack Obama's clean energy plan will create 5 million new jobs. He will crack down on the special interests who intentionally bid up energy prices for their own profit. And, he will set a national goal of producing 25 percent of our electricity from renewable sources by 2025. In just more than two months, Americans will decide the most important election in a generation. Our choice is to stick with the status quo or move our country forward. On energy, the stakes couldn't be higher. So, my fellow Democrats, let's lock arms and work together. Lets ensure that the journey that began in Iowa will continue on from Denver to Washington, DC. Let's put Barack Obama and Joe Biden in the White House and put our country on a path towards energy independence!

Thank you and God Bless America!

Drama

TNT may say it's the place for drama. But I'll be watching the drama elsewhere tonight. And I don't just mean Governor Culver's afternoon speech at the Democratic National Convention.

What will Hillary Clinton say tonight? How will she do? Will it be passionate? Convincing? Will it look like she's really trying to get her supporters to, once and for all, commit to Obama? Or will skeptics suggest a half-hearted attempt because she really wants to try again in four years? Must See TV tonight, no doubt.

Of course, I'll be torn, because my Cardinals play the Brewers tonight at 7pm. It's nearly a must-win sweep for the Cards. Nearly. Mediacom had better not be blacking this one out.

And what is this crap from the Brewers? They have this annoying habit of untucking their jerseys after they win a game (they did it four times during their sweep at Busch Stadium earlier this summer). It's so cocky. SOOO annoying. Now, they even have a song to go with it. And it's even more annoying!

You'll need your speakers up to hear it.

Sad news

Donna Courtney, the wife of Burlington Senator Tom Courtney, has died. She and her husband married exactly four years to the day before I was born. She was born on Christmas Day. The following comes from Lunning Chapel in Burlington:

Donna Jeanne Courtney, 59, of Burlington died Sunday, August 24, 2008 at her residence.
Born December 25, 1948 in Burlington, she was the daughter of Darrell and Jeanne Schneider Strawhacker. On August 15, 1966 she married Thomas G. Courtney in Muscatine, Iowa.
Mrs. Courtney was a graduate of Wapello High School. She worked in food service for the Burlington Community School District for over thirty years and also was a clerk in the Iowa Senate for six years.
She was a member of Legislative Ladies of the Iowa Senate. She enjoyed crafting, scrap booking, gardening, her coffee group and spending time with her grandchildren. She was an Iowa Hawkeye Fan, Girl Scout leader, and a little league coach.
Survivors include, her husband Senator Thomas G. Courtney of Burlington; two daughters, Dawn (Matt) Schulte and Shawna (the late Steve) Casady both of Burlington; one son, Brian Courtney of Englewood, Colorado; four grandchildren, Rachel and Samuel Schulte and Courtney and Brynn Casady; six sisters, Joyce Albin, Ruth Brown, Shirley Hall, Myrtle Heater, Mary McDonald, and Jolene Strawhacker; and one brother, Mark Strawhacker.
Her parents preceded her in death.
The memorial service for Mrs. Courtney will be held 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 27th in Lunning Chapel. The Senators Dave Moulder and Gene Fraise will officiate. Visitation will begin after 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 26th in Lunning Chapel where the family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. According to her wishes, the body of Mrs. Courtney has been cremated.
A memorial has been established for Great River Hospice.

The Weekend

I'm going to call it 1 for 2. I picked it right that Obama would go for Biden. But, man, did I get the timing all wrong. My text came at 2:41am Saturday, two days later than I "predicted". Maybe that's why I'm so hesitant to make predictions.

Here's Biden's first video message to supporters:

Here are the highlights:

Catholic, Foreign Relations, middle class, change, change, 50 states, change (yeah, I know).

I know it's way too early to think about this, but... Biden is 65 years old. Let's say Obama wins this fall and then wins again. Biden would be 73 when Obama leaves office, seemingly too old to run for president. So we could again have one of these crazy, double open (no sitting prez or v.p. running for the White House). Yeah, I know. It's way too early to think about it.

Bachman's Ballboys are winners (btw, I didn't pick out that name). Our softball team put a whippin' on our opponent today in our last game of the year. It means we get a 7-6 record. We can be winners all winter long now. Andy Fales wasn't there. Maybe that's why we won. My shoulder hurts. My back hurts. My right leg hurts. I'll have plenty of time to heal.

Deep Throat

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Obama's V.P.

People keep asking me who I think Barack Obama will choose as his running mate and when it will happen. I'm not paid to give opinions, nor are my opinions likely worth much. But from a purely reporting standpoint, here are my hunches (thanks largely to the national reporting done on this topic).

Here's what we know:

Delaware Senator Joe Biden (and former Prez candidate), Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, Indiana Senator Evan Bayh and Virginia Governor Tim Kaine seem to be the four most-mentioned possibilities.

We know Obama is planning a big rally Saturday in Springfield, Illinois, the city where he announced his prez campaign. He is supposed to appear with his V.P. choice.

We know Obama will notify supporters via text message of his choice beforehand.

We know Obama has a two day travel trip in Virginia with supporters including Kaine.

Would Obama send out the text message before he concluded his Virginia trip? Doubtful.

Would Obama pick Kaine after already spending time with him on tour in Virginia and then campaign with him again Saturday? Doubtful.

Would Obama really pick Bayh--would he really think Bayh will deliver the Republican state of Indiana just by appearing on the ballot with him? Seems doubtful.

Would Obama really pick Sebelius on the day she is campaigning for him in Iowa? Seems doubtful.

By process of elimination, to me, that leaves Biden, who hasn't been out campaigning for Obama this week. Of course, I could be wrong. Of course, Obama could also pick someone other than the four most often-mentioned people.

Microsoft to West Des Moines

Let's be honest. It's all about the bragging rights. In the media biz, we try to "break" stories and then crow about who broke it to you first. A handful of sources confirmed to me that tomorrow morning Governor Chet Culver would announce Microsoft was building its half a billion dollar (or so) data farm in West Des Moines. I was pretty sure I knew exactly where the project would go, but I wanted to drive out there to check it out, just to be sure.

Man, that took a little more searching that I thought. Sources told me (don't you love how these "sources" don't let us use their names just yet?) it will go on the McKinney farm land on Xavier and Booneville Road south of Jordan Creek Mall. If my directions are correct (and, believe me, that is not my strong suit. Just ask my wife), I believe it's south of the MidAmerican Energy substation and east of Michael's Landing (Regency's ill-fated housing development). When you stand on the land, you almost think you're in the middle of the "country". But Michael's Landing is just a minute or so away. So is DMACC West's campus. Beach Girls strip club isn't far away either...from what I am told.

So this means West Des Moines beat out Urbandale for the project. Some Urbandale backers were telling me the West Des Moines would be too prone to flooding, something the West Des Moines backers deny. By my eye-balling, it also looks like West Des Moines' location is closer to the all-important energy substation that the Urbandale spot would be. West Des Moines also has Maffitt Lake Reservoir very close. I'm told the data farm needs a "lot" of power and water, so West Des Moines goes two for two on this. Or so the sources say.

One thing I didn't count on were all trucks. Dozens of trucks fly down the gravel road near the "development". My photographer and I were covered with dust. Not a good day to wear my new suit and tie. Good thing my shoes weren't new. Not they are just dusty.

Microsoft is Coming. Finally

The announcement will come out later today, but Microsoft will finally announce where it's building the $500 million plus data farm. As I told you here a while back, the company has been looking at West Des Moines and Urbandale sites. The announcement later today will actually only announce that there will be an announcement tomorrow at the Iowa Statehouse of the actual location. It'll happen at 10:30am. I'll try to announce what will be announced at the announcement tomorrow later today.

Obama Beating Mac

A new University of Iowa poll has Barack Obama "comfortably" beating John McCain by a half dozen. One interesting note... about two thirds of Obama's "voters" say they strongly support him. Only about a third of McCain's "voters" say they do. Sounds like McCain has some convincing to do.

Here's the poll:

Who's Obama going to pick as his V.P. Wednesday (if the reports are correct)? Joe Biden told reporters he's not the guy today. Is he telling the truth? Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius is coming to Des Moines on Thursday on behalf of Obama. Can we safely assume she's not on the V.P. short list?

Eat Your Wheaties, Shawn

The New York Post says even though Iowa's golden girl hasn't proven gold yet, she could still get a sweet spot on your breakfast table. The paper writes that Shawn Johnson may share the limelight on a new Wheaties' box.

No More Corn

They came. They cast. We counted. Drum roll, please. Wait, hold those drumsticks for a second. I don't know if this matters, but we had about a third more people vote at our Cast Your Kernel this year at the Iowa State Fair than last. Sure, it might just be that people have now heard about what we are trying to do. But is it also a sign of just how much Iowans care about who their next president is? Cue the drummer...

Barack Obama 24,880
John McCain 23,980

This was back and forth early on, then Obama moved ahead, McCain made a surge, then Obama closed strong to win by 900. A couple quick, and probably not shocking observations from my many days at our booth... Obama seemed to do better among the under 45 crowd and with minorities. McCain seemed to do better with the gray hairs.

I dug up our previous results from last year.

A total of 35,448 kernels were cast in the poll.


Democrats

Hillary Clinton 33%
John Edwards 28%
Barack Obama 22%
Bill Richardson 13%
Joe Biden 2%
Chris Doddd 1%
Dennis Kucinich 1%
Mike Gravel 0%

Republicans

Romney 36%
Huckabee 17%
Giuliani 14%
Fred Thompson 13%
Tancredo 5%
Brownback 4%
Paul 4%
McCain 3%

Olympics...

Random thoughts while I watch the Olympics...

Are there really any people who are actually disappointed that Shawn Johnson has now won three silver medals and no golds? Are you being just a bit greedy?

Why are some of the Chinese athletes are getting scores that seem way too high? Let's not even mention the fact those athletes may not even be old enough to compete.

That Jamaican guy, Usain Bolt, who won the 100 meter dash is way too annoying. And his arrogant showboating cost him a better finish. Of course, he still set a record. But he's still annoying.

I think this IS the year for the Chicago Cubs. They'll probably still choke away the World Series. But I think they'll at least get there. As a St. Louis Cardinals' fan, that really stings. I'm quickly losing confidence the Cards will even make the playoffs. Not that I had a ton of confidence to start.

I never tried that fried pineapple on a stick at the Iowa State Fair. I wanted to, I think. I just didn't think eating a whole one by myself would leave me feeling all that good. Oh, well.

We were tempted to go check out Def Leppard at the fair. Paying 100 bucks for our tickets in seats that didn't seem to offer much of a view....well, that just bites.

How many times does our competitor call itself "Iowa's News Leader" in a day's time. Don't people get sick of that?

Looks like a huge day for the Iowa Speedway on Tuesday. Remember those reports that this project would never get built in the first place. Newton deserves this. Now can the city pull this off? Here's part of the release after the cat's already been let out of the bag (where the hell did that saying ever come from anyway? Who put the cat IN the bag?)

Iowa Speedway will hold a news conference at 10:00am Tuesday, August 19, 2008, in the Newton Club. Topic: An announcement regarding the 2009 racing season at Iowa Speedway.

My wife and I had a rare day off together Saturday, so we tried the Greater Des Moines Restaurant Week. 33 restaurants offered lunch for 2 for $20.08 or one dinner for $20.08. If you save your receipt, you could win a trip to Puerto Rico. Actually, you had to save four receipts. Quite a busy week of eating I'd say. One reminder...some, if not all, of the restaurants, limit your choices. In fact, you may have just one menu choice to get the $20.08 price. It still may be good. Ours at Torocco! Italian Grill in Urbandale was. I wish we could have had a few more options, though.

All this talk about food makes me hungry. Time for a late-night snack.

Edwards' Morality

I just found this on John Edwards' presidential website.

John Edwards' remarks in New Orleans, 1/30:I began my presidential campaign here to remind the country that we, as citizens and as a government, have a moral responsibility to each other, and what we do together matters. We must do better, if we want to live up to the great promise of this country that we all love so much.

One word jumps out to me in the third line...MORAL...in the line "have a moral responsibility to each other". Are mistresses included in that obligation?

Edwards Screwing Around Too Late for HRC

So Hillary Clinton campaign's higher up says she would have won the Iowa Caucuses had news that John Edwards is an adulterer broke sooner. There seems to be some obvious irony about infidelity here (uh, Bill), but I'll let it pass. Clinton's former Communications Director Howard Wolfson claims Edwards' supporters would have gone to Clinton. That doesn't quite jive with the hundreds of interviews I did with Iowans before the caucuses. It seemed to me, for the most part, either they liked Clinton or they were deciding between Edwards and Obama. And I didn't seem to meet too many people who had Edwards as their first choice and Clinton as their second.

A University of Iowa professor reports the complete opposite claim of Wolfson. He believes Obama would have done even better had bed-hopping Edwards got kicked out of the race. Pass me a glass for a sip of that sour grape juice.

2 Not so Obvious

Tuesday we re-created our quest at the Iowa State Fair...with one small alteration. Monday, we asked Barack Obama's supporters who should be his running mate. Hillary Clinton probably received the most responses. However, Clinton also received the most "no, not her" responses. Tuesday, we wanted to know from John McCain's supporters who he should pick. There was no Hillary Clinton equivalent. Huckabee, Rice and Romney were probably the most frequently mentioned names.

Obama picked up a cross-over supporter today, too. Former Iowa Congressman (and Republican) Jim Leach endorsed him. Leach is definitely considered a moderate, so, perhaps, this isn't considered a monstrous surprise. But it's hardly common for cross-over support like this. McCain's campaign didn't ignore the endorsement, far from it. They trashed McCain's former fellow member of Congress. Here's what the McCain campaign sent out:

"It’s rather ironic that someone like Jim Leach, a person who placed such a strong focus on campaign finance issues, would be endorsing the first presidential candidate since Watergate to skirt the public financing program in the general election. Despite Obama’s lofty speeches on change, Iowans know that real change comes from working across the aisle to get things done. A single endorsement does not hide the fact that Senator Obama has no record of achievement beyond the confines of his party. While John McCain has spent his career putting the country first - ahead of personal and party interests - Senator Obama's record is a lesson in partisanship.”

Wendy Riemann McCain Spokesperson, Iowa

Leach Co-Authored The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act Which Obama Blames For The Subprime Lending Crisis:Leach Was The Co-Author Of The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, Which Repealed The Glass-Steagall Act And Allowed Competition Between Commercial And Investment Banks And Insurance Companies. (S. 900, Signed 11/12/99)Obama Has Attacked The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act As A Lobbyist-Driven Deregulation That Led To The Subprime Lending Crisis. Obama: “By the time the Glass-Steagall Act was repealed in 1999, the $300 million lobbying effort that drove deregulation was more about facilitating mergers than creating an efficient regulatory framework. … The regulatory environment failed to keep pace. When subprime mortgage lending took a reckless and unsustainable turn, a patchwork of regulators were unable or unwilling to protect the American people.” (Cheyenne Hopkins, “Regulatory Revamp Newest Plank In Obama's Platform,” American Banker, 3/28/08)

Looking for Number 2

You'd have to figure Barack Obama will pick his running mate soon. Here's a scenario (for what it's worth, which probaby isn't much!)... Sunday night, Obama's campaign announced you could sign up to receive a text message that will announce Obama's choice for his number two. Maybe the campaign enjoys the free news coverage of that for a few days, plus gives people a chance to forward the email about the texting to friends and family (or so the campaign hopes). Maybe the veep announcement comes out next week, to give it a full week before the Democratic National Convention in Denver. Just a few maybes to thing about on a rainy morning in Des Moines.

BTW, we asked a bunch of Obama supporters at the Iowa State Fair who they wanted for Obama's running mate. Hillary Clinton was the popular name, but not always in a good way. She did get the most "votes" for V.P. But she also got mentioned most as the person who shouldn't be on the ticket.

Obama leads our "Cast Your Kernel" poll at the fair. It's been back and forth, but Obama has started to widen his lead as of Tuesday morning. Here are the latest numbers:

Does this John Edwards story get more tough to believe or what? And how many of his staffers knew about all of this? So Edwards lied to his wife, his family, his supporters, the American people and the media. The Washington Post has a story that shows the lies aren't finished. This story makes is appear Edwards continued his dishonesty long after he claimed he had finished his "mistake". I'm pretty sure if I ever did this, my wife wouldn't be calling this a "mistake". I'm also pretty sure I'd never sing anything but soprano again.

Almost V.P. Time?

Is Barack Obama about to announce his running mate? I assume he will do it before the Democratic National Convention in Denver August 25-28. But will it be even sooner? Obama's Campaign Manager David Plouffe just emailed this to supporters Sunday night. If you fill it out, you can be one of the first to know his number 2 (or so the email promises). Here's the email:

Dear Dave --

Barack Obama is about to make one of the most important decisions of this campaign -- choosing a running mate. You have helped build this movement from the bottom up, and Barack wants you to be the first to know his choice. Sign up today to be the first to know: http://my.barackobama.com/vp You will receive an email the moment Barack makes his decision, or you can text VP to 62262 to receive a text message on your mobile phone. Once you've signed up, please forward this email to your friends, family, and coworkers to let them know about this special opportunity. No other campaign has done this before. You can be part of this important moment. Be the first to know who Barack selects as his running mate.

Thanks,

David

David PlouffeCampaign ManagerObama for America

Bachman and Boesen

In case you are wondering (and I was), the Bachman family attacked by that madman in China is not related to WHO-TV 13's main anchor John Bachman. There are some coincidences between the families though. The man who died, Todd Bachman, lived in the Twin Cities. John Bachman used to live in the Twin Cities. Todd's wife, Barbara, was also injured in the attack. John's wife is also named Barbara. Todd served on the board of regents for Wartburg College in Waverly. John's father, also named John, served as President of Wartburg. Coincidences. Nothing more.

I'm still trying to figure out what to make of what we're hearing about former Des Moines businessman, Ed Boesen. I don't believe I ever met the man. Davenport police say Boesen committed suicide in Davenport last month. I don't think they've ever released autopsy reports to determine the final cause of death. On a previous blog post, some people who knew Boesen said he was one of the best guys you could ever meet. Generous and kind. Others are questioning if there's more to the story. Banks have now filed lawsuits against Boesen's estate for about $26 million for failure to repay loans. There are allegations of fraud...that Boesen misrepresented his assets in order to qualify for bank loans. No matter what's correct here. This is a sad story. Sad. Sadder still for his wife and four children.

Security?

I forgot to mention one of the more interesting incidents that happened during John McCain's fundraiser luncheon at Des Moines' Wakonda Club. A security problem. I was waiting at the entrance to the hallway where McCain was speaking. The Secret Service makes you empty your pockets, get checked out for weapons and metal, etc. before you are allowed to pass through. I had already gone through this once, but had to do it again because I had slipped out to find the restroom. Anyway, there were two men ahead of me in line. The Secret Service agent asked if they had an invitation. They did not. It turns out they were both members of a health care organization trying push some type of cause.

The agent turned them both away. Both walked away without any problems. However, the agent seemed a bit perplexed about how the two men walked into the Wakonda. Apparently, other agents were supposed to be watching the entrance. Apparently, that didn't happen. Oops. Pretty surprising since we had to have our camera gear checked out by the Secret Service by 9:45am, almost four full hours before our interview with McCain. The invited media were thoroughly checked out. Two uninvited men were not.

Cards/Cubs game 3 tonight. Big game. My Cardinals really need this one. It could be a heckuva pitching matchup with Carpenter and Dempster. Have I mentioned the Cards really need this one?

McCain at the Fair

He ate a pork chop on a stick. But he didn't get a fried Twinkie, much to his dismay he told me. John McCain made his return to Iowa today. He spent an hour or so at the Iowa State Fair. He came last year, as well. McCain told me he regretted that he and his entourage were allowed to cut into the long line to get that much sought-after pork chop. Not sure what exactly went wrong with the Twinkie expedition.

Someone did brief McCain well though. He joked with me about the corn dog fiasco from the day before when they ran out during the attempt to set the world record for a corn dog chomp. He almost belly-laughed when I told him that I remembered the look on Connecticut Senator Joe Lieberman's face when he tore into one of those Twinkies when he stopped by the fair in 2003 during his Prez run.

I talked to McCain following his fundraising luncheon at Des Moines' Wakonda Club. He seems to have no regrets for the celebrity air wars he started with his commercial lumping Barack Obama in with Paris Hilton and Britney Spears. No regrets at all. "You got to have some humor in this kind of campaign", he told me. He said he just wanted to show Obama "is against off-shore drilling and wants to raise your taxes." Clearly, the tax issue was part of his talking points. He mentioned I think three different times that Obama would raise taxes. He will not, he said adamantly.

McCain denies that his mom called his original Obama/Paris/Britney ad "stupid." I have a little difficulty figuring it out. The web site, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/, posted an audio clip that claims McCain's mother, Roberta, did say the ad was stupid. Here's the clip. McCain told me, "I don't think my mom said that. She hadn't seen it." But then he said, "my mom's 96. Whatever she wants to say, it's fine with me." So, did she call it "stupid" or not...what do you think?

Meet Me at the Fair

Nothing like the Iowa State Fair. Seriously, nothing. Pork chop on a stick. A corn dog. Chocolate chip cookies. And chicken lips. Not a bad day of feasting. Sure wish I would have worked out this morning.


It wasn't nearly as miserably hot as it was last year. I won't talk about the corn dog stampede. People who showed up at the fair before 8:30am were told they could get a free corn dog. Problem was apparently about twice as many people showed up as there were corn dogs. Oops.


Another far more serious potential mishap. I spent much of the day at our 3rd Annual Cast Your Kernel corn poll at our booth near the Administrative Building (This should get you the latest results). There was quite a distraction next to us. On the air I called it (in all respect) the "square dancing, cross dressing, tractor drivers." There was a group of men on tractors (some dressed as women). They drove around in formation and circles while someone placed square dancing music. It's quite a sight, actually very entertaining. After we finished our "live shot" on the 6pm news, we heard the crowd yell, "OOOWWWW". We turned around to see one of the tractors apparently bump the tire of another and flip over turn the crowd. Fortunately, it didn't fall on top of anyone. Drivers helped flip the tractor back over. The driver was fine. It could have been disastrous.


Hey, thanks to everyone for the well wishes on my painful tooth. Turns out no root canal necessary now. Apparently, I'm a massive teeth grinder. The dentist told me I have grinded my teeth (is that even a word?) so hard for so long, I've actually made a few almost pointy. When I grind at night, I'm digging the bottoms into the back of my top two front teeth. So my extreme pain was just like a really bad, deep bruise. It's almost embarrassing. Actually, not almost. It is embarrassing. I'm supposed to get some kind of mouth guard I wear at night. That'll be sexy.


Come see us at the fair Friday (we'll have the booth set up throughout the entire fair). John McCain is coming to the fair tomorrow. Don't know if he'll come to our booth. No Barack Obama this year. He had quite the entourage of curious onlookers last year. We'll see what kind of throng McCain gets.

Pure Energy

This Obama vs. McCain vs. Paris fight is something, huh? This is how we get through the "slow summer time". For your enjoyment... btw, which one do you like best?

JMac takes on Obama and Paris


Take that, JMac (This is actually Keith Olbermann's story on this. I can't seem to find a live version of the original Paris ad on youtube any more.)


Paris vs. JMac the Parody


Obama vs. JMac

Iowa State Fair, Ticket for 1, Please

John McCain's campaign hasn't formally announced it, but apparently he is making an appearance at the world famous Iowa State Fair. An email to supporters says the Senator will head to the fair August 8th. No other details have been released. Jackie Norris, Barack Obama's State Director, said Obama doesn't have plans to attend the fair.

McCain's State Chairman Dave Roederer didn't exactly predict a win. But he did make a prediction during our taping this afternoon of "Channel 13's Insiders" (seen at 9:30 on WHO-TV 13 Sunday mornings). He predicted that if McCain wins Iowa, he will win the presidency. Roederer believes if Iowa goes Mac's way, then it probably also means nearby states (Obama's "home" state of Illinois?) will, too. Jackie Norris declined to make any predictions, although she says she feels pretty confident Obama will win Iowa. She is taking nothing for granted though.

(This is hardly a comforting picture)

Anybody ever had a root canal? My tooth has been killing me the last few days. I don't normally have problems with it. My dentist couldn't really find anything wrong. Neither could the root canal specialist (I can't remember the fancy name they call him). Although, he said I will likely need a root canal at some point. That sounds horribly painful.

Trippin' with Joe

Rob Hubler doesn't have numbers in his favor in his bid to unseat Republican Congress Steve King in Iowa's 5th District. There are far more "r's" than "d's". Hubler hopes Joe Trippi will change that. The release is below, but first a little history. A quick search on-line shows Trippi has worked on the Presidential campaigns of Ted Kennedy, Walter Mondale, Gary Hart, Dick Gephardt, Howard Dean and John Edwards. Good thing Hubler isn't running for President, huh?

Here's the release:

COUNCIL BLUFFS – Joe Trippi, a nationally-recognized consultant who helped lead the internet revolution in American politics, will be the primary media consultant for the Rob Hubler for Congress campaign, it was announced by the Hubler campaign.

Hubler, Democratic candidate for Congress in Iowa’s 5th district, said that Joe Trippi & Associates will advise his campaign on internet strategy and message development in addition to producing broadcast media ads.
“Our campaign has begun to attract national interest and support on the internet and Joe Trippi’s counsel is sure to help us increase our visibility and fundraising through the internet,” said Hubler. “We are delighted that Joe and his staff will be working with us as we offer western Iowans new leadership and real representation in Congress."

Boz is back...Where is Schmett?

3rd District Congressman Leonard Boswell put together a little thank you for the thank yous he received during his latest hospital stint. To borrow a phrase from one of the producers in our news room..."he was still in the hospital?" Boswell spent two weeks in the D.C. hospital for what, we don't know. His office has never given specifics. Of course, Boswell never gave specifics about that 20 pound mass doctors removed several years ago. But voters re-elected him without that knowledge.



Where has Boswell's Republican challenger been all this time? Other than his official announcement, has Kim Schmett held any type of event? I sure don't remember any. It's interesting that Republicans complain constantly that Boswell has never accomplished much in Congress, yet they can't seem to beat him. Is Schmett saving his firepower for later on when strategists would argue voters are paying more attention? Does that work for a guy, who as far as I know, isn't well-known in the district?

Perhaps, he's working on his debate skills. I just found this posting:

Hyperventilating over Hypermiling

I did a story last night on the news at 10 about hypermiling. Yes, some people may find this money saving tactic extreme. Some may call it stupid. Dangerous. Crazy. Completely ridiculous. Others think it's worthwhile. Worth the risk. They argue you don't have to do every tactic. Do only the ones you feel are worthwhile and safe. There seems to be no middle ground on this one so far...

We received this email from Zak:

"Dave Price's story on hypermiling was outrageous. Find something worthwhile to report on. This is a dangerous practice and all this does is give someone an idea that could harm themselves or others."

Connie isn't a big fan of my latest work either:

"I rely on your high quality of news content and watch your 10:00 news every evening. I was offended by Dave Price's money saving tips last night regarding the mileage saving tips. This was an example of irresponsible journalism. The tips involved illegal tactics (not stopping completely) and dangerous (turning off your motor on hills and drafting trucks on the highway). Dave should never have submitted that story and it should never have aired. I certainly hope you will not tarnish your high reputation by airing other questionable segments like this again."

Here's the story:






Speaking of outrageous...the Cardinals bullpen is imploding. 4 blown games in a row against the Brewers. 4 in a row! Something needs to happen. And fast.

Hypermiling: All Hype or Worth the Risk?

Thursday on the news at 10, I have a story on hypermiling. Some people think in a world of $4 gas, it makes total sense. Others think it's totally crazy. Hypermilers do things like over inflating their tires, putting their cars in neutral and turning off their engines so they can coast down hills without using gas. They'll roll through stop lights and stop signs, so they don't have to stop. Stopping, actually re-starting, uses a lot more gas. The extreme hypermilers draft, too. That's when they get so close to the vehicle ahead of them on the interstate, the other vehicle blocks their wind, helping them move without as much effort.

AAA isn't a big fan of this. If you over inflate your tires, they might rupture or blow. Putting the car in neutral could slow you down if you need to accelerate fast. And turning off your engine completely likely cuts off power to your steering and brakes. So it's far more difficult to control.

But a West Des Moines hypermiler (who doesn't draft, by the way, because he says, it's too dangerous) says he saves 20% on his monthly gas bill. That is 20 bucks a month he keeps in his pocket. He is an actuary, a man who works in numbers and risk every day. And he says hypermiling is definitely worth the risk. Do you?

Microsoft in Urbandale?

Several sources close to the development project tell me Microsoft is looking at building its $500 million data center west of Interstate 35/80 in Urbandale near 128th and Meredith. The area is already full of development. A new Dahl's is under construction. 128th is being expanded from two to four lanes. If you're not familiar with the area, it's near the Paragon Prairie Tower (R & R Realty put that up). R & R also is the agency selling the land in that area.

Sources told me last month Microsoft is considering part of the McKinney farm south of Jordan Creek in West Des Moines. Obviously, it took me a little longer to get it out of them about the Urbandale location:)

Speaking of development, the Waukee City Council signed off on plans for TEAM Technologies from Cedar Falls to expand near Hickman and South Alice's Road. It's also a data center or data farm or whatever the correct term is. It's smaller than Microsoft's. This would be about a $14 million project. And some people say farming is dead... Not in Iowa, baby!

Stay Away, Senator

The Washington Times broke this story as far as I know... Iowa's most nationally-known Senator Chuck Grassley isn't worthy of being a delegate at the Republican National Convention, or so it appears. The article says the Christian right of the party decided Grassley shouldn't get voting privileges at the convention.

This further plays out the rift between the Christian right and the rest of the party in the state. Is this the type of move that will help the party get McCain the most votes in Iowa and help republicans take back the state house and senate? Or will this just implode the party for an absolute election day butt-whippin' and a bigger blood bath afterwards? I suppose we will know in a few months.

Speaking of McCain...what do you think of the overall coverage of the presidential race so far? The Associated Press has this story out citing a non-partisan study that shows Obama is getting nearly twice the press attention McCain is. Is that fair?

The Cardinals lost another tough one. It seems like most losses lately are tough. Maybe it's just that I'm actually starting to think they may have a shot at the playoffs. I don't understand LaRussa's pitching decision. He wants 13 arms in the bullpen and it leaves him a woefully-understaffed bench. Looper, a pitcher, had to pinch hit in the 10th...in the 10th? His bench was already gone by then. That's not good. If the bullpen is really that unreliable that he needs 13 pitchers, it's time to get some new pitchers!

A Celebration not in Ankeny Brass

For the past 25 years, Ankeny usually plays host to a pretty cool celebration. It's the annual Celebration in Brass. As a former trumpet player, I really have enjoyed the show. This year the chamber of commerce took a pass at hosting the event. Chamber Executive Director Julie Cooper told me her group had two other events around the same time so the board of directors voted not to sponsor CIB this year (she mentioned the Ankeny Golf Open and Summerfest, which would all take place within 20 days of CIB).

http://www.dci.org/ has details about other stops on the tour, which does include a show in Dubuque this Saturday night. Time for a road trip.

Cooper said West Des Moines might consider taking it over. Let the music begin. Again.

Big four game series coming up for the Cardinals this week against Milwaukee. They need at least three of four in this series to keep the pressure on Chicago and hopefully start pushing the Brewers back in the standings. LaRussa sat Pujols yesterday. I know it was crazy hot and the Cards have 18 games in 18 days. But I'm curious if there was anything else to it. Pujols hasn't been driving the ball much. And I've noticed he's been wearing some type of sleeve on his left arm. We know he has a bad right elbow. But what is going on with his left arm? It seems he is always playing with some type of injury. And yet he is hitting nearly .360!

Move Over Microsoft

It looks like Microsoft may have a little data competition in the metro. Microsoft's been eyeing West Des Moines and Urbandale for months for its new data center (thanks, in part, to a bunch of tax breaks from the state of Iowa). My sources had been telling me West Des Moines would be the likely destination. Although several other sources say Urbandale looks stronger now. Hmmm...

Anyway, another city in the metro looks like it will get its own smaller data center than the one Microsoft is planning to build. It's not West Des Moines or Urbandale. I'll tell you more Monday (that's what we call a tease in the tv biz:)

How 'bout my Cards? A huge home run in the 8th by red hot Troy Glaus. And then Izzy blows it in the 9th...again. I wonder if it's time to cut him lose? I know he has done a bunch for the team. But he just can't seem to get it done. I don't know whether it's mental or physical. But he just seems to keep failing. Sad. But then midget Miles hits a granny in the bottom of the ninth to win it. What a year this has been! If they could just get a closer and a good shortstop.

After Hours

Someone was burnin' the midnight oil in the Lt. Gov's office. I received an email from the Rebuild Iowa Office around 1:37am to say Patty Judge wants FEMA to take those nasty, mold-covered trailers back, instead of making Iowans, who already homeless and suffering from floods, live in them. Didn't we go through this during Hurricane Katrina? Heckuva job.

Sunday is apparently National Ice Cream Day (do I have to buy someone a card for this?). In 1984 President Reagan declared the special day. BTW, the ice cream cone was invented in St. Louis in 1904. At least that's what I hear. Here are the top 12 ice cream searches on Yahoo over the past month: (my favorite flavor, Raspberry/Chocolate Chip, isn't listed)

1. Vanilla
2. Chocolate
3. Strawberry
4. Banana
5. Green Tea
6. Peach
7. Coconut
8. Oreo
9. Ube (It's Phillipino)
10. Coffee (including espresso)
11. Spumoni
12. Cherry

My Cardinals are smokin' right now. Ludwick, Ankiel, Pujols, Glaus...they're all hitting. (My brother picked a great game to go sweat in the sun to watch:) But why is Tony torching the bullpen the way he is? Todd Wellemeyer was mowing down the Padres Saturday(after getting knocked around in the first two innings). Why did he lift him in the 7th? Why not at least let him finish the inning to save some strain on the bullpen?

The Gov on TV

A lot of Iowa roads suffered a lot of damage, and the state of Iowa will need a bunch of money to fix them. But Governor Chet Culver told us today raising the gas tax isn't the way to raise that cash. He mentioned other states have looked to "privatizing" roads, which I assume means he was talking about toll roads. I don't think he was pushing the idea here. But I don't recall him saying he wouldn't go for it either. Stay tuned on that one, I guess.

King vs. Culver--Earlier this week, Steve King, Iowa's Republican Fifth District Republican Congressman, told me he is "looking at" running against Culver for governor in 2010. I didn't expect Culver to say, "bring it on, buddy" (or some other moniker). And he didn't.

He told me he was actually looking forward to working with King next week when he goes to D.C. to work on finding federal money for Iowa's flood recovery efforts. Part of his quote was, "we'll worry about 2010 in a couple of years. Right now I'm trying to get the job done as governor and we have to work together. Even though it is an election year and what do you expect, a little partisan rhetoric is always part of the process." Oh, well. I tried.

The Gov also said he thinks ticked off smoking voters won't take out their nicotine-less-fueled anger against lawmakers who voted for the smoking ban. In fact, he said just the opposite. He thinks voters will reward lawmakers who voted for the ban. We'll have to see what some bar owners think about that.

The Gov wouldn't take a position on whether he thinks the legislature should add casinos to the ban during the session next year. He said, "we'll see what the next step is in terms of that issue and any others." Again. I tried.

Moneysavers

Man, I thought finding freebies on the internet would be no sweat. Oops. It can be done. But it took me forever. There were so many places promising you something. But really you had to answers all kinds of questions first and many times you had to buy something. How is that free? And I didn't find a single offer for one of those "free" $250 or $500 gift cards from some place that turned out to be legit. All I found were scams.


For the past week, I've gone blurry-eyed searching through these things. I've come up wth a dozen freebies so far. Post a comment below if you have your own. There have to be more good ones out there that are actually FREE!


FREEBIES


Quik Trip free hot dog and 32 oz. drink www.qtwebgroup.com
$5 gift certificate when you buy $50 merchandise (yeah, I know. Not quite free). www.kmart.com
$20 gift certificate for opening baby registry www.target.com
free Nivea for Men Extreme Comfort Shaving Gel and Post Shave Balm
Free Country Bob’s All-Purpose Sauce
Pledge Multi-Surface Duster Starter Kit
Clorox Color Safe Bleach
Gillette Body Wash
Honey Clusters Cereal and Oats and Chocolate Bar
Scott’s Xtreme Rags
Granola cereal
FitSmart bar














This is making its way around the internet. A Cardinals' friend sent it to me (and, yes, it's a joke!)


(Brussels) Anheuser-Busch has accepted a $52 billion takeover bid from Belgium-based InBev NV to create the world's largest beer maker and end a month-long standoff. While pitching the deal in recent weeks, InBev chief executive Carlos Brito has said that he is "committed to the city of St. Louis" and that changes here would be minimal. One that Brito said will show up shortly after this weeks Major League Baseball All-Star event in New York will be a minor one in the long standing uniforms worn by the St. Louis Cardinal Baseball team. First-baseman Albert Pujols, one of the first to try the new outfits said "while it may take a little time for Cardinal fans to fall in line behind the change, I personally like them a lot. They'll really be enjoyable during those hot, muggy days in late July and August. I expect all of the fans will be wearing them before the end of the season!" Sporting goods stores around the St. Louis area report brisk sales of the new Cardinal memorabilia.

Steve King for Governor?

Does Steve King want to run for Governor of Iowa in 2010? It sounds like a "maybe". King told me he "is looking at it." He said "that whatever duty calls, that's what I will do. But I've made no decision yet. I go to bed at night without it on my mind. And I get up in the morning and it's not always on my mind when I wake up."

It's not always on his mind. Hmmm. King said Culver has to take the blame (as the head of the state) for the state spending way too much money since he took over and for signing that smoking ban. King isn't a big fan and thinks it's an unfair law since it sets different standards for different businesses. He also told me Iowa could become a "weekend Mecca for same sex marriages" for people everywhere if the Iowa legislature doesn't pre-empt a possible Iowa Supreme Court ruling that would allow gays and lesbians to marry in our state.

The only person I've heard who is also likely, if not definitely, planning on running for governor is Sioux City businessman Bob Vander Plaats. He has already tried twice before. But as they say, the third time is the charm.

What do the Dems think of a King vs. Culver matchup?

"Steve King has shown once again that he is willing to put his concerns for his political future ahead of the concerns of the people of the 5th District.

While the people of Western Iowa are faced with record gas prices and skyrocketing health care costs, King has turned his back on them to focus on his own political ambitions.

Steve King’s record shows he has failed to deliver for Iowa families and our rural communities. Voters in the 5th District will send King a strong message this November, when they send Rob Hubler to Congress."

-Scott Brennan, Chair of the Iowa Democratic Party

I feel obligated to note...in all fairness to Steve King, I did ask him about whether he wanted to run for governor. He didn't come to me to tell me what he was thinking.

APB for Sheriff Gilbert

Who shot the sheriff or, is it, who did the sheriff want to shoot? My desk mate here at the station, Mark Tauscheck, dug up this little ditty about former Dallas County Sheriff Brian Gilbert...

Here's what he wrote...

More problems for former Dallas County Sheriff Brian Gilbert... Last year, Gilbert was found guilty of stealing $120,000 from his own department. Now he's accused of harassing his ex-wife and threatening to kill her over the phone.

Gilbert now lives in Arizona. According to Dallas County District Court records, Gilbert faces first and third degree harassment charges in connection with phone calls he made last month to his ex-wife, Tina Gilbert. According to the affidavit, on June 11th, Brian Gilbert called and threatened Tina and one of her friends, stating "he would come to Iowa and put a bullet in Tina Gilbert's head and be gone without anyone knowing it."

It also states he called her several times that same week to intimidate her and imply he was going to hurt himself. The Dallas County attorney would not comment on the Gilbert case. But he did say typically those charged with misdemeanors are not extradited to Iowa. He said the person would only face arrest if he returned to the state.

Ed Boesen Died

One of the most well-known florists in Des Moines is dead. A family told me Ed Boesen died last night while he was on a business trip in Davenport. He declined to elaborate, other than to say Boesen had "some type of reaction" and died at a Davenport hospital.

The Boesen family operates seven floral shops in Iowa and seven other recently purchased shops in Wisconsin. Ed was also the owner of Exec One Aviation at the Ankeny Airport.

Boesen was 43 years old and leaves behind a wife and four children.

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.