1. Where did the name of your blog originate from, and when did the blog start?

The Communist Dance Party (later shortened to the CDP) started in February of 2004. I wish I could tell you some interesting story that led me to choose those three words, but it was just something that I thought looked cool on a header and would interest readers. In a way, it accurately represents the sort of material I was publishing in 2004 (humor, pop culture, politics), but I can assure you that was purely coincidental. The first month, we got 50 total hits. Last month, we received 13,000.

2. What inspired you to start your blog?

Shortly after graduating from college in 2004, I was in between employment and fighting off feelings of depression and douche-baggery. The Missus was supporting the both of us on $9 an hour, and for awhile it felt like we weren’t going to make it here. I was on the verge of hanging myself in a public bathroom by the elastic in my boxers, and needed some sort of outlet to keep from self-destructing. Writing has always been there for me, and now we’re doing better than we ever thought we would be.

3. What is the most rewarding facet of writing on the internet?

I enjoy attracting like-minded people who agree with, empathize and enjoy my creative outlet. Getting worldwide e-mails from people who wanted to say hello always makes my day. Having folks tell me that they laughed themselves to tears reading what I just wrote. Having fans send me photos of themselves wearing a CDP t-shirt. Instant gratification and a sense of community are the perfect way to stroke the fragile and insecure egos of Bloggers. We want to be noticed, appreciated and ultimately left the hell alone.

4. Describe the space you do your writing in.

CDP World Headquarters is a spare bedroom that I've converted into an office. In addition, I just bought a new iMac that looks beautiful on my glass desk. The place is stocked with books, old toys and other acts of subterfuge that keep me from making any actual money. I sometimes just go in there to listen to The Smiths and sob quietly.

5. What do you do for kicks when you're not posting?

Me and the Missus watch a fair amount of television and buy albums around-the-clock. I try to keep up on my reading, and work out whenever possible. I'm currently nursing my dream of training to become an Ultimate Fighter, but my mother tells me that she will not support my venture, regardless of if I succeed. During the summer, I stand on my deck, nude from the waist down, and tell the local skateboarders to get off my driveway.

6. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Madison?

This is home to me. Me and the Missus moved here to go to school in 2002, and we're never leaving. I'm constantly amazed and appreciative that there is a place like Madison in the Midwest. Everything that Madison represents is indicative of what I want to represent: Progression, intelligence and Sub Sandwich shops by the truckload.

7. Is there one thing about the city you wish was different or something the city is missing you wish it had?

Less road construction; more casinos. A miniature-golf course on the East side would be nice, too.

8. Where do you enjoy eating the most in Madison (or Dane County)?

Really anywhere that makes a mean Veggie burger or pasta. I know I’m tossing my hipster cred in the trash right now, but I’m a big fan of the Olive Garden; especially their Portobello Ravioli. Noodles is always quick and cheap; much like my last girlfriend, only tastier.

9. If you could replace the word "blogs" in the cultural lexicon, what would you replace it with?

Blams!

10. Finally, name one person you wish kept a blog and what you think they would title it (can be living or dead).

I wish Jesus would have kept a blog, so then I’d know exactly where he was coming from, without all these jerkasses and agendas getting in the way. The straight dope, you know?