RYAN BAKKEN: How much would you pay for this column?

Scott Hennen must feel a bit bloodied these days.

After all, the radio blabber supported the retention of the Fighting Sioux nickname in Measure 4, which was crushed by a 2-to-1 margin. He also supported the elimination of property taxes in Measure 2, which was buried by a 3-to-1 margin.

A vote on motherhood might not be as lopsided. Even lutefisk would get the 25 percent approval of Measure 2.

So, I'm here to boost the confidence of Hennen, known in Grand Forks as the former voice behind the microphone at KCNN Radio and Ralph Engelstad Arena. Hennen wisely relocated 11 years ago to Fargo, where there are more potential listeners and advertisers.

Even in that burgeoning city, times are tough in the radio business, just as they are in any traditional media. In 2008, he was ousted as president and chief executive of The Flag station by his investors. Two years later, he was fired.

But he has struck a deal to buy back the station for $1.6 million. To finance the deal, his plan is to find 1,600 backers who will pay $1,000 apiece.

A conservative in the Rush Limbaugh mold, Hennen has formed four clubs that speak to his philosophy. The clubs are Faith, Family, Freedom and Free Enterprise. There are only 400 spots in each of the four clubs, so you'd better hurry.

Cynics may be thinking Foolhardy might be a more fitting F-word category for that strategy. But I believe his plan is pure genius.

One dollar

Since imitation is the greatest form of flattery, I'm going to offer similar sponsorships to be an "owner" of my column. Since this column doesn't have near the value of a radio station -- which includes the likes of towers and pizza coupons -- I'm offering these shares for the low, low price of $1.

Instead of the four F's, I have only three clubs. They also lack the alliteration of Hennen's list. They're named Chaperoning, Rummaging and Marilyn. Following are the perks that come with each membership:

• Chaperoning. For your $1, I will teach you the skills needed to chaperone school dances attended by your children. If your children do not reach the red-faced level of embarrassment, you get a refund.

• Rummaging. For $1, you can accompany me to rummage sales, learning how to spot bargains and build the courage to ask: "Will you take a dime for this item you have marked at 25 cents?"

• Marilyn. Because I am a colleague and I have been named a "Cheerful Person of the Week," I have total access to Marilyn Hagerty. I can get you into the same room as Marilyn. You might even be able to share lunch or a bridge game with her. However, I must warn all potential Marilyn Club members that's there's no guarantee of meeting the hunky Anderson Cooper.

Even with Marilyn's connections, Anderson Cooper is going to cost extra.

Reach Bakken at (701) 780-1125; (800) 477-6572, ext. 1125; or send e-mail to rbakken@gfherald.com .