Political Phenomenon: Fancy Farm

Lonestar meets Bluegrass

Texas Governor Rick Perry addresses a crowd of over 500 at the annual Republican Party of Kentucky Lincoln Day Dinner in Louisville Saturday evening.
The governor addressed out of control spending and high taxes.
A Texas sized personality.
Reflections
A Texas sized personality.
Senate Minority Leader and Senior Senator from Kentucky, Mitch McConnell introduces Texas Governor Rick Perry.

Summer in Summary... The Gnome is Home... (For now)

Here I am back in good old Union, KY tucked back in the woods watching the chickens terrorize the yard. Being home is full of mixed emotions; I loved working in our nation's capitol, making a difference in these historic, challenging, and difficult times. In Senator McConnell's office I worked in his press office where I helped write Congressional Records, file press releases, and compose the daily press clips. In Senator McConnell's office I worked with a great duo in the press office and other very talented young people "across the hall." The interns I worked with in the Senator's office are also of a magnificent quality and I expect great achievements from each of them.

After six weeks I made my way over to the House of Representatives where I had the privileged of working for Congressman Brett Guthrie. In Congressman Guthrie's office I helped answer constituents correspondence and questions. I also helped get the mail folded, stuffed, and sent everyday. Along with the variety of meaningful tasks that I carried out, I got to participate in a tele-town hall where the congressman spoke to some 3,000 constituents on the phone at one time. In Congressman Guthrie's office I worked with a great team including the Congressman. During my tenure with Guthrie it was always fun and exciting working with Nan Natcher.

When everyone asks which one I enjoyed more, I can honestly say neither because they were such different experinces it would be like comparing apples and oranges. However when asked what was my favorite experience up there, I can say that being in the Rotunda for the Ronald Reagan Statue unveiling was the most memorable event. Next in line would be seeing the fireworks on the National Mall on July 4th.

With this post I would like to say that the Gnome is not going away, rather changing his direction and goals. You will see more of him.

In the coming future I will be attending a few GOP meetings around and then I will be reporting in to Peace Ford Tower (PFT) at WKU for RA fall training.

The Gnome Book Club

Today was a slow day so I took advantage of the nice afternoon to catch up on some reading in the back yard. (contrary to popular belief and my professors' knowledge, I do know how to get something out of a book) I started out with a recommended read from my dad entitled "The Unfoldment of the Great Within," by Bernard Jensen. It was a great analysis of leadership and a well rounded being and sums up how a healthy life can lead to a more productive person and leader. My second read "Republican Leader," a biography of Mitch McConnell by John David Dyche. This book is a great read for anyone interested in KY Politics, Mitch McConnell, The Senate, or Government in general. The book is a focus on his political life and dives into his leadership and influence in both the state and national stage. I was fortunate enough to have the book signed by McConnell last week. I hope anyone interested in either of the above topics checks out the books if you get the opportunity.

Gnome leaves the Senate!

As most of you know I have been serving as the Press Intern in Senator McConnell's DC office, yesterday was my last day. It has been an honor and a privilege to get to work with such outstanding people. This experience has let me see what it is like to work in this fast pace city and the importance of message control when dealing with the media. Though I am finished in the Senate, Washington has not had enough of me yet. Starting Monday I will be serving as an intern in Congressman Brett Guthrie's Office until August. I am sure I will have an equally exciting and fulfilling experience in congress... Thanks God Cap and Trade is over... I just want to thank all of the other interns I served with and all of the staffers who have made this summer one that is not to be forgotten. Specifically I want to thank Courtney and Robert for putting up with me everyday. I hope you enjoy these pictures, after work we decided to run over to the capitol and take some pictures while there was nobody there. The capitol is a remarkable building and I had to share some of the less seen hallways with you all.

The Press Office with Robert and Courtney

The McConnell Interns in his office for a pizza party. Charles Badger, Me, Caroline Cash, Mary-Kate Lindsey, Chris Adcock, Jacob Price
McConnell's office. He has every editorial cartoon ever made of him on his wall. There are still some 30 that have not been framed!!!!

The Brimidi Cooridors

First Black Female Congressman

Hall of Columns

Capitol Rotunda and view of the Apothesis of Washington. The dome is 180 feet high.

Portrait of Caroline Cash from the Bob Dole Balcony, the same spot where Senator McConell has his portrait taken. If it wasn't so hazy, the Washington Monument is to the left of her head.

Gnome misses Skyline and Goldstar...

Today here are some photos from Senator McConnell at a Press Conference in the Capitol. After work I went to a WKU DC alumni event with a few people from the city. I never realized there were so many toppers on the hill. Tonight's Gnome is brought to you by Bens Chili Bowl off of U street in DC. Ben's chili is a cultural hub for DC, many famous politicians, actors, civil rights leaders and musicians have come from all over the world to visit the resturant. The place has been there since the late 1800's and is still there. The walls are donned with pictures with patrons from Obama to Jesse Jackson to Hillary to Bono. In memory of Michael Jackson, tonight they played non stop MJ songs. I did something different with the Gnome, I played with photoshop, I don't think I like it but it is kind of artsy... kinda.


Ben's Chili Bowl

Mitch McConnell during a Senate GOP Press Conference

Senate GOP Leadership during a Press Conference

Newly appointed Senate Republican Policy Vice Chairwomen Lisa Murkowski

Senator John Thune (Potential 2012 Candidate) replaces Sen. Ensign as the Chairman of the Senate Republican Policy Committee

Mitch McConnell standing strong at a press conference

Press Conference with Mitch McConnell and Harry Reid

John Coryn (R) TX