- twelve questions with important politicians and influentials - has been run on Townhall. This is a special feature interviewing Lisa herself, in honor of Valentine's Day and how she's survived the dating scene in Washington. Oh - and you can read more of her adventures in her book
Finding Mr. Righteous.
What’s the best present you ever received as a child?
I honestly can’t think of an answer to this question.When I think about childhood I don’t think about presents, but about camping trips with my mom and sister, my first trip to New York with my dad and sister, visiting Graceland and other memories. Who would have thought I’d be stumped on my very first “De Pasquale’s Dozen” question?
What’s the best present you ever gave?
A few years ago I had old recipes my grandmothers had written out that I scanned and had made into fabric.I gave the fabric to my mom for Christmas and she made them into aprons for me and other family members.
What advice do you remember your mother or father giving you? Did you take it?
My mom frequently said, “Don’t tease the dog.”I took it because despite our good intentions some dogs (and people) just aren’t in the mood to deal with my silliness and want to be left alone.
If you could be paid to do anything besides your current job, what would it be?
I want to be the referee of the annual Puppy Bowl on Animal Planet.
Who would be on the perfect "Red Eye" panel?
Since I’ve been on “Red Eye” a few times, I don’t want to offend anyone who is frequently on the show.I think it’s safer to pick people who have never been on. It would be me, actor Bruce Campbell, actor Charlie Day, artist Brett R. Smith, TV host Mike Rowe and Greg Gutfeld.The after party is in my hotel suite.
What question do you wish reporters would ask you? What’s your answer to that question?
Q. Where can people buy your book, “Finding Mr. Righteous” and is there a limit on the number of copies they can buy?
A. I’m so glad you asked! You can buy it on Amazon or other big box retailer sites.There is no limit, so buy as many copies as you want. Also, if you buy at least two on Amazon the shipping is free! It’s the perfect pre- and post-Valentine’s Day gift.
What's your current “guilty pleasure” television show?
“Little Women LA” on Lifetime and “Vanderpump Rules” on Bravo. (Just to be clear, I consider “guilty pleasure” shows those you’re embarrassed to admit that you like. I actually do watch some legitimately good shows.)
What would you like tomorrow's headline to say?
Selfish Me: Ahead of Movie Release, “Finding Mr. Righteous” Becomes New York Times Bestseller!
Unselfish Me: ObamaCare Ruled Unconstitutional, Job Growth Soars!
What was the first rock concert you ever went to?
I grew up in Tallahassee, FL and only country singers and groups came to the Civic Center. In the mid-90s I was so excited that my favorite band, R.E.M., was finally coming to town. About a week before the concert, a hurricane came through the panhandle and tore the roof off the Civic Center. I was devastated. So, my first concert ended up being Sister Hazel several years later at Floyd’s Music Store in Tallahassee.
What's your favorite movie line and why?
“My offer is this: Nothing.” – Michael Corleone, The Godfather II
It’s an important lesson on negotiating, especially with politicians.
Tell me about your favorite teacher and how he or she influenced your life.
Dr. Art Vanden Houten, my political science professor at Flagler College, taught me an important lesson about writing.Always delete “I think.”It’s obvious that’s what you think because you are writing it.Without “I think” your writing sounds stronger and more assertive.
What books are on your reading list?
Generation Kill by Evan Wright
We’re Just Not That Into You by Karina Smirnoff
Ann Coulter’s new book (June 2015)
7 Women: And the Secret of Their Greatness by Eric Metaxas (September 2015)