An unusual campaign promise.

CNN just reported that Barack Obama has an unusual campaign promise which you probably haven't heard. It has nothing to do with the economy, war, foreign policy, or health care. It has nothing to do with any campaign promises that you've probably ever heard. He promises to adopt a dog. Yes, a dog. This has nothing to do with most anyone in the country, but it was a very important promise to Obama's two young daughters.

And you can help cast your vote through the American Kennel Club at www.presidentialpup.com. Due to the girls' allergy considerations, AKC has compiled an expert list of five breeds that are best suited to the needs of those with allergies. This "election" runs through August 19.

I voted for the Bichon Frise because of the description of a self-assured, friendly, easy-to-train temperament.

Now, isn't that cute?

Campaign Cola.

I just found Campaign Cola. This is novel and amusing, enough that I almost want to buy some.

Al Gore's endorsement of Barack Obama.

Excellent speech from Al Gore!

Al Gore to endorse Obama.

Yay for Al Gore endorsing Obama tonight!

A tribute to Tim Russert.

On Friday, June 13, we unexpectedly lost Tim Russert. Flags were lowered to half-staff in his hometown of Buffalo, New York. On an extended special broadcast on NBC, numerous journalists paid their respects and special comments were given by John McCain, the Clintons, and Barack Obama. The President interrupted a news conference in Paris to pay tribute to Russert. Today, "Tim Russert" is the #1 search on Google.

Think about how many broadcast journalists would be treated as such an American hero, the news of whose death would garner such importance from the President, a person who, while not an elected public official, would receive the honor of flags being lowered. Think about who could garner glowing tributes from such different people as Keith Olbermann and Rush Limbaugh, alike, people who share nothing in common except a respect for Tim Russert.

Tim Russert provided tough but fair journalism which trickled into every aspect of what we, the American people, come to know about our candidates, our elected officials, our politicians. Election debates will not be the same. Meet the Press will not be the same. American politics and even voting will not be the same for any of us.