Pure Madnesson

Admist much controversy regarding a rule to exclude same-sex couples and subsequent removal of that rule, some of Madison's talk radio hosts and notable politicians have announced plans to enter a kissing contest sponsored by pop radio station Z104. The contest is now scheduled for this Saturday outside of the Z104 studios, and winners will receive a tropical vacation.

Madison's oddest couple, conservative radio host Vicki McKenna and progressive alderman Austin King, was the first to declare intention to participate in the kiss-off. McKenna told her listeners on Thursday that she was hesitant to participate in a competition that included same-sex couples, but she had already committed prior to the rule change. "Besides," she says, "Austin said he'd participate with or without me, and I don't want him kissing anyone else." King plans to bring a full box of nicotine patches for McKenna, as she ordinarily cannot go more than 20 minutes without a cigarette.

Also joining the fray of mad-kissers are WTDY mid-day maverick John "Sly" Sylvester and his kissing partner Alderwoman Robbie Webber. Sly explains, "I've said some pretty nasty things about her in the past, and it's time I show Madison I'm not such a bad guy. Hopefully, my offer to lock lips with Robbie will make up for my past rudeness. I just hope she doesn't bite my tongue off!"

There are rumors that Mayor Dave Cieslewicz plans to ask Alderwoman Brenda Konkel to pucker up with him for the contest. The two reportedly had a falling out over the lobbying ordinance late last year but have come back together through their work on inclusionary zoning. The mayor now believes it's time to kiss and make up. Konkel says she is undecided as to whether she would accept such an invitation from the mayor.

In response to the anouncement that same-sex couples would be allowed to participate in the contest, Casey Hoff of WTDY phoned Alderman Larry Palm on the air asking that he pair up with Hoff for the kiss-off. Palm was hesitant at first, as he was hoping to smooch Alderman Zach Brandon. However, upon hearing the news that Brandon already had plans to enter the contest with much older Alderwoman Cindy Thomas (the two plan to wear matching sweaters and their little red tax cap beanies during the competition), Palm agreed to join forces with Hoff.

Former Madison Mayor Paul Soglin has been asked to join conservative realtor and alderwoman Judy Compton. Soglin agreed after explaining to Compton that this would be a little different than their past relationship, as "she need not kiss my ass this time." WIBA radio talk show host Mitch Henck will also take part in the contest, locking lips with longtime pal, Alderman Jed Sanborn.

One Madison City Council member has declared that he will not participate in the Z104 Kiss Off under any circumstances. Alderman Isadore Knox considers himself too independent and has decided to abstain from participating.

Z104 morning show hosts and contest sponsors, Connie and Fish, are thrilled that so many well known Madison figures plan to pucker up with them. They were also surprised and pleased to find that their listenership included at least some people over the age of 20.