October 5, 2008

H U M O R / P O L I T I C S (they're one and the same these days, no?)

1. The newest installment of TINA FEY AS SARAH PALIN. I realize it's long, but I promise the second half is completely worth it. The sad part is, Simon Rich is only vaguely doing his job; most of this is a direct (read: almost direct) transcript of the debate. Notice how Biden is never funny? Because his performance was stellar beyond mocking.
2. Speaking of the debate, I think this is the most astute critical analysis I have yet encountered:
   

   Her understanding of major policy issues is clearly paper thin; her answers sounded like strung together talking points that were often incoherent and contradictory; aside from energy-related issues, she offered almost no actual policy solutions; and more often than not she failed to answer the moderator’s questions — a point she even boasted about — relying instead on sound bites, catch phrases and folksy expressions...
   Her answer on the responsibilities of the vice presidency was downright bizarre. First she said that “I’m thankful the Constitution would allow a bit more authority given to the vice president if that vice president so chose to exert it in working with the Senate and making sure that we are supportive of the president’s policies and making sure too that our president understands what our strengths are.” Then she said. “Well, our Founding Fathers were very wise there in allowing through the Constitution much flexibility there in the office of the vice president.”
   In fact, the Constitution does nothing of the sort and describes only one responsibility for the office: president of the Senate. But this was par for the course last night: Ms. Palin’s answers were platitudinous and generally devoid of substance. To reread the transcript of Ms. Palin’s performance is revelatory; she simply does not have a keen grasp of the questions being asked of her and doesn’t show any of the policy awareness that Mr. Biden displayed. It is increasingly unclear whether Ms. Palin has the necessary qualifications and capabilities to be a heartbeat away from the presidency.

3. Best/Worst Cover of all time
4. Healthcare economists on Obama, as told by astute economic analyst Jason Shafrin.

A R T / D E S I G N:

1. Typewritten Portraits. Who knew the things microsoft word could do?
   
2. A submission from reflynn: Eyeball Jewelry. I told my Dad to look into expanding his business into this. His response: "I think it should be given out free to parents after the Harvard tuition bills are sent." Fred Shafrin, ladies and gentlemen.

S P E C I A L I N T E R E S T:

1. Gay Virginity Auction. Think last year's Widener girl + economic downturn = legalized prositution. hooray!
2. Michael Ian Black's blog. It is endlessly hilarious. This one isn't even that good, but check out some of his other posts because he is truly a gem.

T H E A T E R:

1. What kind of blog of things I like could not include Audra's upcoming concert?
   ...I want to go. So badly. I love her.