“W” Stands for Winnebago

In case you thought dodging bombs in Lebanon was tough, try avoiding a careening Winnebago in Iowa. That’s right – going on right now is the Blue Ox Back Seat Driver Competition. For the 37th year, motorhome owners will try their luck at navigating an obstacle course blindfolded by following directions over a radio. The event draws over 3,500 motorhome drivers from around the nation, and is perhaps the largest and most grotesque celebration of conspicuous fuel consumption.

Ahh. But wait a sec. There is something sweetly appropriate about this event. Consider: While the rest of the world is under siege from any number of calamities, while the US suffers from high gas prices, record hot weather and fat kids, thousands of blindfolded conservatives gather in an Iowa field. It’s perfect. Nothing says Bush America quite like a blind old freak behind the wheel of a Winnebago – especially when they start driving backwards.