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Question of the day - The Golden Horseshoes, Round 3

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Illinois

Yep, we finally have a name for these awards. I called around yesterday to see if we can have trophies made up in the shape of a horseshoe - the actual shoe, not the dish.

I’m gonna declare a tie in the legislator who best epitomizes public service award. Ray LaHood wins the “statesman” award. CUB gets the association award.

Three new questions today. Please explain all your responses…

1) Best political bar/restaurant in Springfield (must be currently operational)

2) Best statewide officeholder

3) Best state legislative staffer

Again, please explain your votes and try your very best to answer all three questions. Thanks.

…Adding… The contest is not just based on the number of votes, but on the intensity of each vote. So, if you don’t explain your vote, it will have far less weight or not be counted at all, depending on my mood.

posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:02 am

Comments

Boones Bar and Grill
Lexi Gianoullis has done a great job so far.
Ellen McElroy-Kenworth, if you need an answer quick, she is the only one I know of that can track the staff down and get it for you!

Comment by My Opinion Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:13 am
Please, expain all nominations. Your vote won’t count if you don’t follow this rule.

Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:14 am
1. Boones (during warmer months when garden is open)
2. Lisa
3. Jessica Basham of House Democrat Research Staff

Comment by 12 14 2007 Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:15 am
Again. Explain your votes.

Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:17 am
Geez Rich- Boone’s because that is where everyone is at after session and they have pretty good food.

Comment by My Opinion Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:19 am
:)

Comment by My Opinion Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:19 am
Can we pick retired’s? If so, I vote for Sam Panyatovich’s place. Now THAT was a political hangout.

If not, I’ll vote for Bauers — I mean Capitol Grill — I mean whatever the place is called today. Best place for end-of-session party.

I’ll vote for the future governor of Illinois Lisa Madigan. She’s incredibly competent and knows how to stay out of the line of fire (and she’s honest).

I don’t know if he counts as a legislative staffer, but Steve Brown is the best.

Comment by Wanna get away Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:22 am
Boone’s has decent food but great atmosphere to see people.
Dan Hynes is very capable, independent and patient - when will he get his turn?
Phil Draves from the Senate GOP staff knows and respects the institution. He is very knowledgable and approachable.

Comment by Bi-Partisan Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:24 am
1) Boones
2) Lisa in a practical sense and Pat Quinn in a fantasy land dreamer sense.

Comment by Niles Township Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:24 am
Capitol Grille is closed, so the vote doesn’t count.

NT, how many times do I have to ask people to explain their votes? This contest isn’t just by the numbers of votes, it’s the intensity.

Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:26 am
1. Brown’s- It is the best place for a drink after a long Session day…drinks are cold, staff is great, and free juke box- what more could you want.

2. After this year- Dan Hynes wins my vote….He is the only one who has made any sense!

3. Colleen Atterbury- House GOP Staff- She works harder than anyone I know, can answer any question, and still keeps a smile on her face!

Comment by Is It Over Yet? Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:27 am
1) No choice. Blago and I both would prefer not to be in Springfield. However, unlike Blago, I chose not to take a job based there.

2) The only two possible choices are Lisa and Alexi. Both are competent and independent. However, the vote has to go for Alexi. First, the expectations for him were so low — who in the world thought he would do the job he’s done — and second, since it has been about 2,500 years since the Greeks won anything, it is about time to honor a Greek.

Comment by Skeeter Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:29 am
1.Boones- its close
2.Lexi Gianoullis- he is doing a great job
3. Ellen Kenworth- she never makes you ask twice for anything and gets it done right.

Comment by Springfield, IL Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:29 am
1. Lime Street Cafe, best bar and live jazz in Springfield
2. Lisa Madigan, her works gets her press, she doesn’t pander and she’s solid.
3. Ray Watt, best staffer on the Illinois Senate Staff.

Comment by Lou Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:31 am
Boone’s. It’s a tradition, Beer garden, close by.
Alexi. Doing a great job, stays above the fray. Called one day just to talk and see how things were. Never even been formally introduced.
John Lowder. C’mon. No expalantion needed here. Great boss. You know who he is. And if you don’t, you obviously don’t work around here.

Comment by Huckleberry Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:37 am
1) Sebastians (Who’s Who of VIP’s)
2)Jesse White - Decent and non-partisan for the most part
3) Madigan’s Press Guy - Love when he goes against Nix

Comment by ChiCountryGuy Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:42 am
John Lowder and Colleen Sullivan-Atterbury have very different personal styles, but they’re both excellent. John really enjoys a good policy argument and, when possible, genuinely wants to seek out the right answer (within the context of what’s politically feasible). Colleen’s very sharp, easy to work with, and again, wants to help her caucus do the right thing whenever possible, sometimes even when it doesn’t seem politically feasible.

Comment by Gus Frerotte's Clipboard Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:44 am
1) Saputo’s-it is an institution in Springfield, provides decent food and is a great place to watch who is having dinner with Madigan
2) Lisa Madigan is politically savy while actually doing her job-a rare combination
3) Jack Unzicker (House Democratic Staff-Research Appropriations) a true expert in a very difficult subject matter who knows more about the policy issues than many while not loosing sight of political realities

Comment by spfld dem Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:44 am
Bob’s ButterNut Hut — better TV outside and fewer pols lying to you.
Lisa Madigan
The better Brown is Liz Brown on the House Dems Issues staff

Comment by Reddbyrd Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:46 am
Boone’s by default….the old Capitol Steakhouse is closed for the moment and doesn’t qualify. Boone’s does get a bi-partisan crowd and the beer garden is the best in town.

Dan Hynes is smart, committed and actually has skills. He’s run that office as well as possible and weighed in on the public debate when appropriate. I sill think he should have announced in the primary before Rod and he would have won that year.

Mike Weir and Mike Thompson. They both have this near identical Madiaganesque way of listening and nodding and then saying absolutely nothing in response. Seriously, both very smart, talented guys.

Comment by Buffalo chicken Horseshoe Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:49 am
1. Browns - I find more legislative members and judges there then any other bar. Not to mention the nice alley table they set up for the smokers.

2. Lisa madigan - She kept most of the republicans on staff when she took her job, including those in high up positions; She hired a true investigator to work in her inspector general office, and somone who had been a republican supporter; She prohibits any employee, their spouses or family memebrs from donating to her campaign (smothing no other elected official has done to my knoweldge), true ethics reform; She stays on top of consumer and environmental issues either by bringing the suits or joining them; She is a genuine person and a great leader. She operates under the true ethical and bipartisan standards we should demnad from all our leaders.

Comment by Ghost Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:49 am
Boones is always were the party is after session days are over so it is hands down the best bar in town.
Alexi is just well how do they say….. SEXY LEXI do I need to say more.
Ellen McElroy-Kenworth is always available when you need her so my vote is definitely for her.

Comment by My comment Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:50 am
1. Capitol City Bar and Grill - great politcal conversation goes on there even if no pols are, food and drink at great prices and a theatre for the big ones. 2. Pat Quinn because he isn’t helping destroy the State like the others.3 No vote

Comment by Mr. Ethics Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:54 am
Opps. I forgot to explain why I picked Lisa Madigan so I better give an answer before the little dictator scrubs my votes.
As Attorney General she has run rings around every other constitutional, has received great media attention and has unlimited potential — think outside IL — especially if Sens Obama or Clinton win.

Comment by Reddbyrd Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:55 am
1) No opinion, since I’ve never been in one
2) Whadda category to have to enter a vote into. The gov. is a loony boob, the lt. gov. position is irrelevent, the treas. & comptroller positions basically little other than to avoid screwing up so bad that you don’t bring negative publicity on yourself … Leaving the AG & the SoS. Out of that field, I think that Lisa Madigan is the best choice.
3) Seeing as I’m not a Springfield political reporter or lobbyist, I don’t have much experience with them. So, I’ll leave that vote to the one reporter I know of here, and the number of folks who will reveal themselves as lobbyists by actually entering a vote here. (Geez, I am a cynical one, aren’t I?)

Comment by Snidely Whiplash Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:55 am
Looks like Boones is going to win.

However, I cast a vote for Mr. J’s. When you are really, really desperate at 2:00 am and you don’t care if your drink is in a clean glass, Mr. J’s is there for you. Watch your back - and your wallet.

Comment by Lush Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:57 am
I’ve only been to S’Field once as an adult, but I have to second Saputo’s. I ate dinner there, and saw Mike Madigan. Very exciting moment for me as a political junkie. I wish I could have shook his hand, but he struck me as someone who doesn’t like to be bothered. Anyway, cool moment for me.

I’ll go with Alexi Gianniolias for best statewide guy. He’s risen far above expectations already. With all the troubles in S’Field, it’s amazing how many good people we have waiting in the wings - Alexi, L. Madigan, Hynes, White. If only we could replace the gov and M. Madigan and Jones with some of those people…

I’ll pass on #3.

Comment by jerry 101 Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:57 am
Liz Brown - Her capacity to get the best out of people through positive motivation is a testament to the managment of Madigan’s staff and. Also, she’s just an overall good person to see around the capitol. She’s got a bright future ahead of her!

Comment by Diamond Dog Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 10:59 am
1. Maldaner’s - good food at a fair price, always people you know in there, casual enough you can move around.

2. Lisa Madigan - she gets that doing her job very well is good politics. Hires good people and lets them do their jobs. Thanks to her, Illinois now has an energy policy.

3. The collective staff at the LRB - they have to have the shortest turnaround times in state gov’t and move mountains of complicated paper around the clock.

Comment by Anon Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:04 am
1) The Sangamo Club - definitely the place to see and be seen.
2) Tie between Hynes and Giannoulias. Both are smart, accessible and will talk to Republicans
3) Cecilia Hylak-Reinholtz - good and what she does and gives you a straight answer

Comment by Anon Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:08 am
D. H. Drowns, Good conversation place great drinks at reasonable prices, great service.
Pat Quinn, for his work with veterans
Legislative staffers and secretaries as a whole. They do most of the work and get little credit, although this year no credit may be a good thing.

Comment by downstate hack Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:09 am
1.) Denny’s on Stevenson, if you’re in the distinct minority like myself and get enough of statehouse types during normal working hours.

2.) Dan Hynes, because of his dedication, passion, and firm grasp of the issues. His late-payments-from-GRF memos are the state government equivalent of Shakespeare.

3.)Chirag Trivedi is the sharpest legal mind in the Statehouse.

Comment by The Elderly Republican Tomato Farmer Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:14 am
Best Poltical Bar-The bar in the basement of Sebastains. I like the bathroom and you can usually see who you need to see.
Lisa Madigan. Because she will be a great Governor.

Staffer is Tough–I like both Browns, Thomson and the boys, and if you said best poltical staffer, one of them would get it. But for Legislative, it has to go to John Lowder. He has been around longer, knows the issues better, and understands how to get a bill passed.

Comment by Lake Tom Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:14 am
Saputo’s…hands down.
You can always tell when the Legis is in session…the commoner can’t get a table and has to eat at the bar. Plus it is fun to see Emil in one room with his entourage and Mike in another with his group…with runners shuttling back and forth.

Comment by siyotanka Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:14 am
===I like the bathroom and you can usually see who you need to see.===

In the bathroom? lol

Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:22 am
If Giannoulias affirmatively moved state assets out of real estate and into stuff that was less affected by the subprime crisis–I don’t know if he did or not–Giannoulias did something specific that saved the state a whole bunch of money.

Like I said, I don’t know. But if Giannoulias did save the state this money, I think a Cap Fax Blog award is appropriate.

Comment by Carl Nyberg Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:22 am
Best political bar is Brewhaus. They host the Springfield edition of Drinking Liberally every Thursday night and have a great beer selection. It doesn’t attract the session crowd but that’s a good thing if you get tired of self-important people in suits.

Best statewide is Lisa Madigan for competence and political savvy.

Best staffer is Liz Brown because she has a Southern Illinois accent.

Comment by Sango Dem Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:27 am
1. Boones
2. Gianolis he has exceeded all expectations
3. I will go with Coleen Attebury.

Comment by Kid Vegas Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:32 am
1. Not in Springfield anymore (Use to attend UIS)…

2.) Alexi Giannoulias– The guy has done the most with the littlest expectations. I think the programs he has instilled and his investing moves thus far have been smart and long-ranged.

3.)Robin Kelly– Not only was it smart to have her be COS at the Treasurer’s Office, but she has brough on some great (and NEW) people to support the budding young statesman. Bravo!

Comment by YouNeverSawMe Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:34 am
1. Augies. Great food and a lot of influential people on a session night. 2. Lisa Madigan. By far the brightest future in Ilinois politics. 3. Mike Ciaccio. works hard and knows his stuff. Also never has a bad word for anyone. PS - anyone who puts Liz Brown either has a good sense of humor or no idea whats going on at the capitol.

Comment by make sense Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:41 am
Boones is obviously the place to be. It used to only get a good crowd when it was nice out. But with the smoking ban it is the place to go. Also has pretty good food for lunch. Sebasitians is also a good place to hang out but only after someone has a big legislative dinner downstairs. I predict the Celtic Mist will one day be the place to go but we need to talk them into allowing TV’s (but they do have free wi-fi). I wouldn’t have rambled on if Norb’s was still open, as it would have won hands down.

Rod. Because he is trying the hardest to make sure he doesn’t come back (either by not being re-elected, indicted or just not showing up).

Patty Schuh, Waton’s press secretary. Always has a smile and a good word for you. And besides the gov’s communication office, she has the least product to work with.

Comment by Tough Questions Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:43 am
2. Alexi–he’s brought a forward thinking breath of fresh air and accessibility to the office (new Bright Start mgt, expanded auction of escheated property, reduced budget, ethics regs, etc.) and has avoided political hirings. Plus, bringing Robin Kelly on as CoS validates his judgement.

Comment by corvax Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:45 am
2) Treasurer Giannoulias. Madigan and Hynes are fine, but Giannoulias is having an amazing first year. The hotel stuff, the hybrid program, and I’m always hearing about unclaimed property on ebay… that was a really good idea. Plus, the guy has personality. Who knew the Treasurer’s office could be so exciting?

Comment by Bill S. Preston, Esq. Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:50 am
Boones, the Madigans, Liz & Steve Brown

Comment by PolySci1 Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 11:54 am
Boones-Because everybody likes attitude with their beer.
Jesse White-Because he doesn’t really cause problems.
Ellen McElroy-Kenworth- Because she is the best floor mom ever!

Comment by grad student Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:04 pm
Boones because if you are looking to hang out and talk politics its the place to go.. Lisa Madigan- no nonsense, stands up to her father and has an outstanding record of public service, Liz & Steve Brown because they are both a riot, very loyal and get the job done

Comment by PolySci1 Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:06 pm
1- The Southern Aire because Bobby Klocke can play any tune you request.

2- Paul Powell because all his friends sit at the head table;

3- Francis Whitney because nobody knows the process better.

:)

Comment by Mr. Wizard Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:09 pm
Although it’s been a few years since I frequented the establishments, I would suggest Boone’s Saloon is the best political bar/restaurant. It’s not a passive place to participate in the political process unlike some others that favor people-watching instead of people-talking. Secondarily, the horseshoes are arguably the best in Springfield (barely ahead of the Irish place with white cheese -forget the name).

Statewide office holder: Dan Hynes. Period. He embodies integrity, maintains a professional approach to the management of the office, and has maintained a top-notch reputation as a statesman while others on the 2nd floor are still learning how to tie their political shoes. I agree with a previous comment about Lisa Madigan not outright firing the republicans in her office - that also showed tremendous class and recognition of the importance of retaining talent despite political labels. Still, Hynes has been more willing to tackle members of his own party -for better or worse- than Madigan whose effectiveness and opportunities have been hamstrung by the Governor and, to some extent, the federal prosecutor.

Best staffer: Matt Rice, JCAR. His institutional knowledge and respect for the process is legendary if even for a not-so-obscure legislative commission. Matt’s professionalism, sense of humor and commitment to the public and e the agencies that comply with the Il Admin Procedures Act is second-to-none. This is not to disrespect the others that were listed. I’m sure they are all quite capable and effective as well, but my vote is Mr. Rice.

Comment by DC Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:09 pm
Boone’s by far. The place changed hands a year or 2 ago and it is so clean and has great food and drinks. They have a great heated beer garden in the winter and open with a bar in the summer. The best place to see all.
Lisa Madigan for sure

Comment by workin hard Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:24 pm
Not even close. Pat Quinn.

Comment by North by Northwest Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:28 pm
The “Mo”, you can learn more there just by seeing who is eating together.
The Treasurer has been a pleasant surprise
Cecelia H-R does a great job and knows how to cut through the BS.

Comment by anon Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:29 pm
Boones- Best place to go hangout and talk poltics and whatever else is going on in the state.

Lisa Madigan- Knows how to fight for people and there causes.

Ellen McElroy-Kenworth- Knows the legislative process better then anyone and is very willing to help anyone who asks her for help.

Comment by 102 Counties Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:35 pm
1) Sebastian’s — laid back & always fun.
2) Lisa Madigan — is serious about making positive changes in state government.
3) Matt O’shea - from house repubs. There is no one better in follow up & he truly wants to help. Also, he gives you a straight answer — something that doesn’t always happen with other staff who can sometimes resemble pod people.

Comment by dupage progressive Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:40 pm
Ellen McElroy is one of the best staff members that I have gotten the chance to work with, she has taught me everything I know. I think this recognition should be all hers! Thanks for everything….

Comment by jollymolly Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:46 pm
2. Dan Hynes–he’s only one who has managed to talk sense this year and somehow he’s managed not to become a pawn in the Blago/Madigan feud.

3. Dick Edwards and his staff at LRB–Collectively they have the most knowledge in the building, in a building where everyone has an ego they manage to satisfy everyone, and they do great amounts of quality work at night and on the weekends when all the egos have gone home. Even if they don’t win the annual award, they should at least get some kind of “lifetime acheivment” recognition.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:46 pm
Hand’s down, Boone’s is the best bar downtown Springfield has to offer. You can’t beat the food, the huge beer garden, and the cleanliness. It used to be so dirty, but ever since it was sold and reopened, its much more upscale looking without the upscale pricing!

My vote goes to Jesse White as best office holder. He knows what the people want and provides it without the corruption!

Comment by Mr. Johnson Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:48 pm
1. no bar in springfield since you can’t smoke.
2. Lisa Madigan - She leaves all others in her dust with her passion to do the right thing and puts her duties above politics (parental notification, not endorsing the Gov., etc.)
3. Steve Brown - A trusted confidont of the Speaker for two decades and a great relationship with the blue room and legislators.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 12:51 pm
oops I forgot 3

3. Steve Brown; great spokes model and becuase he also interacts with Bloggsnd bloggers

Comment by Ghost Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:01 pm
1) Boones

2) Lisa Madigan or Dan Hynes

3) The house democrats legal staff. Dave Ellis is a pro and the young lawyers there know there stuff.

Comment by awardsfordummies Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:06 pm
Best legislative staffer - definitely Louie Mossos. He recently left House Dem staff to go to the AG office. He was the best.

Comment by Bring Back Mossos! Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:07 pm
Boones. Pat Quinn. Randy Hannig. He’s more than just a pretty face.

Comment by Ihearthannig Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:09 pm
Floyds

Jack Franks

Jake Longhorn

Comment by anon Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:11 pm
1. Gotta be Boones just for the beer garden

3. Tom Wogan from House Dems. He knows his stuff and tells the best dirty jokes of anyone around.

Comment by fat Santa Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:11 pm
Floyds

Madigan

Will Cousineau - he smashes his own grapes and comes up with witty comments at the same time

Comment by Big Willie Style Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:12 pm
Blago by far is the best statewide office holder.

Because of the entertainment value not because of his renowned work ethic or genius for details.

Think about it. Right now thousands of people are waiting with bated or bad breath to see what Pat Fitzgerald has to say today. It could be about anything and perhaps not even state related. But we all wonder…………….

Comment by irishpirate Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:14 pm
Boones-because that is where you find out everything! Lexi-because he is a smart young mind.
ELLEN MCELROY-she cuts through all the b.s. and works harder than anyone, ans is probably under appreciated. She always is there to pick up after the bigwigs and clean up messes. She keeps track of everyone and everything, has worked on so many different staffs and works well with people. She knows everyone in the building because she has been here forever. If Ellen told the stories she knows, some of the most important people in this building would be in BIG trouble. She is loyal and will never tell you she can’t do a job. The Senate Dems should recognize how lucky they are that she is there. May I add often at 7:00 a.m.?

Comment by Ellen Fan Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:15 pm
No offense to Ellen at all, but it would be helpful to her cause if people outside her office also voted for her.

Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:17 pm
Mark Warnsing and Kim Fowler on the Senate Repubs and Cecelia Hylak-Reinholtz on the House Dems.

Comment by Lotta Liaison Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:20 pm
2) I’m reiterating my Giannoulias vote. The reasons given for Madigan and Hynes have been broad at best (passion, talkin’ sense, serious about making positive changes, fighting for people, etc.). Isn’t this what we should expect from all of our elected officials? Giannoulias embodies all of those things mentioned, plus he ACTS. He’s also politically independent. Sad as it is, I think it’s rare for an elected official to have such a great year.

Comment by Bill S. Preston, Esq. Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:22 pm
Excuse me Rich, I work in the building, not her office. She makes life easier for a lot of people. I had a long explanation on her because one-its true, and two, you said that it is not the number but the intensity of the votes. THANKS

Comment by Ellen Fan Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:29 pm
Statewide Officeholder - Dan Hynes - Honest, fiscally responsible, priorities are in order.

Staffer - Liz Brown is the best. Worked with her in the 103rd and she made the campaign most fun ever. Very straight forward and when you talk to her about what SHE thinks about issues is pretty right on. She is a great fighter pushing what she needs to.
Mike Weir is one of the smartest guys you will ever meet. Kristen Bauer is one of the hardest working people you will ever meet.

Comment by Staffer Who Was Not in Station One Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:31 pm
Dick Edwards, Nicole Truong, Brian Day, Heather Harding, Robert Cohen and all those other sharks in LRB.

Comment by I want my bill drafted even though it's based on nothing more than a half-baked idea! Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:36 pm
1) Boone’s, but only because Norb Andy’s is gone. Unlike all the other mentions, Boone’s is somewhere that lowly staffers can afford to get sloshed, and its open to Democrats and Republicans alike.

2) Lisa Madigan, hands down. Quiet, effective, principled, smart, impeccable ethical record. Hynes is a close second.

3) Mike Thomson. Combines the political savvy of Tom Cullen with the organizational efficiency of Eileen Mitchell. As a Democrat, Dring wins the award for Republican I’d Most Like To Have on My Team.

Rich, maybe we should have a Democratic and Republican award in this category?

Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 1:59 pm
Scratch that. Floyd’s, which I don’t really think of as a political bar, but is my favorite hangout. It’s Boone’s PLUS occasional live music and better beer list.

Comment by Yellow Dog Democrat Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:02 pm
3. Tom Wogan, Kristen Bauer, Eric Lane, Liz Brown and the House Dems research staff. They’re the definition of work hard, play harder!

Comment by CentralILtransplant Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:10 pm
1.) Boones

2.) Hynes

3.) Steve Brown

Comment by 2for2 Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:10 pm
3. The House Dem’s own, Kevin Morphew. That kid is just a survivor.

Comment by Dog the Bounty Hunter Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:40 pm
Best Bar: Browns
Officer: Moffitt
Staffer: Rob Plaskas

Comment by 1600 Pennsylvania Ave Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:43 pm
1.) Floyd’s - great atmosphere and crowd

2.) Lisa Madigan - smart, hard-working

3.) Matt Harbour, House Repubs - Talk about a go-getter! Brilliant!

Comment by Anon Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:45 pm
3) As a former legislative staffer, I have worked with several staffers that I think qualify for this award. Staffers are often over worked and under appreciated, so I think it is wonderful that a category has been created in their honor. After much thought I have to say that Kurt Deweese and Jack Unzicker are the two most valuable staffers in Springfield today. In a time when staffers are asked to juggle multiple agencies, often hampering their ability to really become an expert in any one field, Kurt and Jack have been allowed to focus on their fields. Over the years, they have become experts in the intricacies of health care and environmental policy respectively. Their value is appreciated and sought out by legislators and staff on both sides of the aisle. Kurt can also disco like nobody’s business!

Comment by Minion Forever Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:45 pm
Browns because of the atmosphere and quality of drinks. Moffitt because for his years of dedication to downstate IL. Rob Plaskas, because, well, work with him and try not to laugh, impossible!

Comment by 1600 Pennsylvania Ave Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:45 pm
Moffitt is not a statewide official.

Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 2:48 pm
oh, miss read the question, well then to find a good one i would say look to another state. . . so Mitch Daniels

Comment by 1600 Pennsylvania Ave Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:06 pm
1. Floyds-love the blue cheese olives
2. Lisa Madigan-intelligent and hard working
3. Steve Pankey-respects intelligent and hard working people and anyone who shakes up a martini with blue cheese olives

Comment by jolly roger Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:15 pm
1. Browns: Friendly Staff
2. Lt. Gov. Quinn because of his classic remarks about the Governor’s social awkwardness and inability to carry out basic conversations with the press.
3. Rob Plaskas: 1 word, style

Comment by Kosuke Fukudome= Championship Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:17 pm
1. Never been, can’t say
2. Oh come on. None of them is real - it’s all about image and how well they spin the media.
3. Kurt DeWeese - House Dem Staff, hands down. In his area, knows everything about what the legislature did, what they did the time before that, the time before that and the time before that. And why. And what they should have done. What’s more - he actually cares about the subject - human services - that he deals with. Easy measure about why my choice is right - imagine the House activity on this subject when he leaves. Easily the biggest drop off of any staffer.

Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:17 pm
Best political Bar - there is no one good political bar since Sam’s went out of business. There are several mediocre one Boones, Sebastians, Browns, Saputo’s (only it’s too small) and even the Mo and by the time I hit them all to get and give all the scoop, I’m a little looped.
Best State-wide office holder - Lisa, who else in the face of all that is happening in Springfield can stay above the fray.
Best Staffer - Steve Brown of course! He’s up against an army flackers and comes up with the most succinct, to the point, and acerbic responses! Who is better?

Comment by Gray Wolves Den Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:18 pm
Floyds has blue cheese olives? It don’t get any better than that.

1. Saputos is THE quintessential political hangout in town.
2. TIE - Pat Quinn and Lisa Madigan
3. Senate Republican radio guru Ray Watt

Comment by Dr. Candle Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:19 pm
Boone’s - convenience
Alexi - he’s good at what he does and he’s hot
Randy Hannig - intellgant and entertaining that’s a good combination

Comment by Paris Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:28 pm
Boone’s best bar; close location and it introduced me to the horseshoe when I first came to Springfield

Lisa Madigan does a good job.

Liz Brown. She worked with me when I was younger and encouraged me to work in government. She’s not afraid to let you know what she thinks and knows her stuff.

Comment by Cooler Heads Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:33 pm
Best Bar is definitely Browns… they have the best drink specials
Best Official: Dan Hynes- keeps his nose clean and calls out Blago when needed
Best staffer- Liz Brown works really hard. She is a go to person for all the House Dems.. Also, Steve Brown.. I think it should be a tie and give it to both

Comment by CardsFan Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:33 pm
Randy Who?

Comment by CardsFan Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:35 pm
2) Dan Hynes - Tells the truth, even when it is unpleasant, generally understated and focused on the duties of his office. Making an effort to keep the taxpayers better informed.

It was a tough call, because Lisa Madigan and Alexi G. display similar, good qualities. But Alexi is just too new to say for sure and Lisa…no good reason, ask me tomorrow and I might pick her.

Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:45 pm
Boones!-Chipsters rule
and Rob Plaskas we are all hoping you win this one buddy

Comment by Bluedogdemocrat Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:48 pm
3. Men fear and women want Robert, Robby, Robin Plaskas… great personality and a true giant among his counterparts!

Comment by SouthernILRepub Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:50 pm
Boones-Close and great food!

Sexy Lexi-nuff said

Randy Hannig-If you know Randy you know all the reason you would choose him! He is the BEST!!!

Comment by Pam-a-lina Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:55 pm
Rob Plaskas… greatest video collection ever

Comment by Lincoln's Beer Drinkin Buddy Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 3:58 pm
1. The “No Name” in the Statehouse Inn. Great music and Don the bartender knows your name.
2. Would the other AG qualify? That is Bill Holland, the Auditor General. Who does a better job sniffing out corruption?
3. Mr. Ray Watt is the best staffer. From the Senate Repubs and loves politics and a good disco tune.

Comment by I'm lovin' it Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 4:04 pm
“Come on”.. don’t be jealous, plus like Rich can’t see who keeps posting stuff under different names

Comment by BabyByrd Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 4:11 pm
DH Browns….free jukebox, friendly “Cheers-like” staff, and free drinks on occasion.

Dan Hynes…for courage and a voice

Lisa Guinan….anyone that doesn’t know Lisa-Lisa and vote for her is a liar. Runs 220 and now the floor box in the House.

Comment by 4% Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 4:20 pm
Sally McDaniel-Smith is the kindest, happiest, funniest legislative staffer. Every time she goes to lunch she brings back take out to her co-workers without complaint. I’ve known her since we were 18 and Sally is the bomb-diggity.

Comment by Rayne of Terror Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 4:29 pm
Best statewide officeholder- Lisa Madigan, she does her job well.

Best state legislative staffer- Liz Brown, she’s a hard worker and knows her stuff.

Comment by KD Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 4:31 pm
3) Steve Brown for best staffer. He helps people when he can and has a good sense of humor. He needs that last part, he certainly has had interesting job lately.

Comment by Pot calling kettle Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 5:15 pm
Rich,

You wanted intensity, so here it is…

1) Sammys- When the mess at the state house has you scratching your head, you can get a drink and talk sports

2) Hynes- No other statewide officer has exhibited the courage and integrity he has shown… Honestly, I’ll be dissapponited if Alexi wins this… There’s more to being a statesman than good looks. Madigan is second, but she needs to speak up even when it’s not convinient.

3) Steve Brown- He has a classy knack for making Blago’s staff look ridiculous.

Comment by Mr. Conservative Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 5:24 pm
Best Legislative Staffer: Rob Plaskas from House GOP Research & Approp. This guy has a killer rhinocerous tie, a car straight out of “The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift,” is incredibly adept with the ladies, and is the living personification of Glen Quagmire from “Family Guy.” Rob is also a total team player during campaign season. Who else do you know who would take a kiss from a fellow male staffer just to comfort the guy? There is no justice in the world if Rob doesn’t get this award.

Comment by Anon Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 5:26 pm
Boones - Last time I was home on leave it was an after session party, wow, I couldn’t imagine another place to be that night.

Madigan, L - Always classy

Tie
Tom Wogan - Being next to him makes me look that much better to the ladies!
Liz Brown - Consistently leaves me crying from laughter.

Comment by The SPC Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 5:27 pm
Browns is the best political bar. Staffers, lobbyists & legislators on any given session night. Best bartender & wait staff in Spfld, decent drink specials, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Dan Hynes - he has a backbone against GRod.

Agree wholeheartedly that Lisa Guinan is the best staffer under the dome. She’s paid her dues and keeps things running smoothly for HRS. Also, a shout out to Frank Straus. He’s a walking encyclopedia, extremely knowledgable on all things legislative & political.

Comment by The Other Ghost Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 5:40 pm
Screw it, the whole house Dems staff, so far i haven’t met a bad one…..except for that Wier girl……

Comment by The SPC Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 5:48 pm
Boone’s - because that’s the bar where the Sangamon County Democratic Party has its fundraiser on the night before Dem Day/Governor’s Day at the State Fair.

Dan Hynes because he’s the best qualified to put State government back together again after Blago’s reign of error. Hynes really understands the nuts and bolts of government more than any other constitutional officer. His governing style would be exactly the opposite of Blago’s - not flashy, but effective. His understanding of State finance could be a critical difference between him and the other contenders. He has had the cpourge to stand up to the Governor a number of times.

Steve brown wins by default because he’s the only staffer who ges quoted in the Chicago
newspapers.

Comment by Captain America Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 5:50 pm
1. Browns is where the big dogs go to get a drink and B.S. Although traditionally for GOPs, I’ve seen many a democrat in there getting loaded just as fast.
2. Probably Hynes if for no other reason he’s trying to keep the Governor’s budget balanced as best he can.
3. Oh, this is easy….Frank Straus with House Republicans. The guy is incredible. He can read the most complicated bill in seconds and understand it instantly and tell you how to improve it, or how to kill it. I’m shocked he hasn’t been mentioned already; probably ’cause the guy doesn’t seek out praise, but he sure deserves it. Hope you’re feeling better, Frank. Get well soon.

Comment by JUST MAKE IT ALL END Thursday, Dec 13, 07 @ 6:03 pm