How to Host a Debate Party

The debates are back! With all the side stories and drama leading into the debate (The economy! Iraq! Lipstick!), there will be plenty of entertainment as the two leaders of the Republican and Democratic parties flex their presidential muscles.

With that in mind, why not try a little entertaining of our own. Here's a handy guide for throwing a last minute presidential debate watching party for all your political pals.

GUEST LIST
Do you want to mix it up and represent both sides of the aisle or go partisan so that the cheers and boos will all come at the same time? If you choose diversity, be sure both sides feel comfortable. As the host, look to moderator Jim Lehrer for advice on how to keep people in line and set some ground rules (as told to CNN's Larry King):

"Every debate I have moderated, my whole point at the very beginning, and all the candidates and everybody knows this, that if the thing gets out of hand and the rules become irrelevant for whatever reason, then I'm prepared to stop the debate and say, all right, gentlemen, you violated the rules."

GRUB
Don't just go for the standard pretzel, chips and salsa combo. Here’s how to get creative.
•    Appetizer Salad: Prepare an arugula salad and make a joke about Obama sticking his foot in his mouth before a group of Iowa farmers last year when he said, "Anybody gone into Whole Foods lately and see what they charge for arugula?”
•    First Course: Cook up
•    Cindy McCain's own (or is it Rachael Ray's?) recipe for Ahi tuna and cabbage slaw.
•    Main Course: BBQ Ribs are a McCain family favorite when the Senator is grilling at his Sedona Ranch.
•    Desert: Whip up Cindy McCain's famous Oatmeal Butterscotch cookies…or is that Hershey's (STOCK QUOTE: HSY) famous recipe?