Tue update: Primary season idea, bologna sandwich, Grizzlies, Black Diamond, poker night

The caucus and primary season for the Presidential election kicks off tonight in Iowa. Many people complain that the early states like Iowa and New Hampshire have too great a role in selecting the candidates. Well, I saw a comment on Twitter that is a great idea: Let the state that had the highest % of voter participation in the previous general presidential election be first to hold their caucus or primary… then second highest would go next, and so on. It would encourage citizens to go out and participate in the democratic process, to try and get a reward for their state. By using the previous general election participation numbers, you’d have almost 4 years to sort out the next election’s primary dates.

Of course, it’ll never happen. The chance of politicians doing something that makes sense is about as low as the chance of the BCS selection process making sense.

I ate at the Blind Bear for the second time last night. This time I chose one of the “Bear Cat” menu options, the Fried Bologna sandwich and a side. Since I didn’t have any black-eyed peas on New Year’s, I chose that as my side item.

Other choices for sides include sweet buttered corn, french fries, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes and gravy, and green beans. The bologna sandwich was topped with cheese and BBQ sauce, and sells for $8. You can get a plate of four sides for $6.

The word I’m now hearing is that the Black Diamond closed because next-door gift shop Tater Red’s plans to expand into the space. That’s not officially confirmed but I heard it from a source who talked to Diamond doormen and bartenders this weekend.

The Grizzlies are at home at the FedExForum tonight, taking on the Sacramento Kings at 7 PM. Get tickets here.

Tonight’s the second week of poker with Jamie at the Blind Bear. Starts at 8, so come on by, I’ll be there! Trivia nights at Saucer, Goose, Green Beetle and Ferraro’s if that’s more your thing.