Rummy fades, Strandberg star still bright

We asked long-time government employee Paul Strandberg for his take on the recent elections and his longevity as an attorney for the state. Paul is our senior class president who is often mistaken for his look-a-like Donald Rumsfeld. Well, Don is out now, but Paul is still in. What's your secret, Paul? -- TB

Paul writes:
After the first election in decades that hasn't put me into a blue funk, I am still at the public trough (as a lawyer in the Minnesota Agriculture Department).

As I have often said, I am the only person I know who has been exiled by a governor (Arne Carlson) and an attorney general (Hatch) who hasn't missed a paycheck. It is somehow ironic that my job would have been iffy if the Democrat won, but relatively safe with the Republican Governor getting re-elected.

In any case, it will be very interesting dealing with a solid Democratic legislature and a Republican governor.
Fortunately, agriculture has been bi-partisan in the years I've dealt with it. The selection of Senator Pogemiller as senate majority leader, however, could make things grind to a halt.

Trailboss says: Thanks Paul. Not much insight there on your longevity. We pulled out photos of you and Rumsfeld. I think your classmates would agree you're much better looking than he. Right, class? Don't he still look good? So ladies, it is time. Who had a crush on Paul during high school? Fess Up. Trailboss@swpub.com


Lorlee remembers: Paul stepped on my new tennis shoes in Mr. Anglin's geometry class --- I can't remember if we got kicked out of class or not -- but if so, it would have been the only time I ever was. You know, goody two shoes --- but in this case, dirty shoes.
Lorlee

Strandberg responds: I remember getting kicked out of a class with Lorlee, but I'm not sure which one. I do remember that it was right before lunch so we didn't have to wait in line. No other punishment ensued.