Judy wants to 'take out' Rod ... to Klas Restaurant!

CICERO (ap)--State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka formally kicked off her campaign for governor Wednesday with a stirring rendition of "Roll Out the Barrel," saying she believes she is the candidate who can "take out" Gov. Rod Blagojevich for traditional Czech dishes like svichkova (pickled beef in sour cream gravy) and koprova (boiled beef in dill gravy).

Topinka, a so-called moderate Republican who plays the accordian, made her announcement at Klas Restaurant, 5734 W. Cermak Rd. in Cicero, the Chicago suburb where she grew up.

"My decision to run is going to be based on the belief that we can and do better and frankly I'm the candidate that can take out Rod Blagojevich and I intend to take him out," she said.

If he agrees to go out with her, he can try one of the Klas specialties, which include wiener schnitzel, roasted duck and smoked sausage, all served with dumplings or potatoes, sauerkraut or sweet and sour cabbage and mixed vegetables. The standout entree is fruit dumplings (strawberry or peach) served with cinnamon, sugar and butter sauce. Apple strudel is a must try.