Fundamentals of Interactive Journalism

Ah, Halloween – one of my favorite holidays. It’s that one unique moment in time when you can lavish yourself in wigs, glitter, body paint, blood,  and even a pair of sequined hotpants without raising an eyebrow. I usually start constructing my Halloween costume at least one month ahead, although this year it’s not happening due to obvious reasons. I have a lot of homework.

So in my last minute quest for a costume, I can’t help but think that it must be political in nature. Afterall, these elections have dominated our lives for quite some time, and will continue to dominate them for the next two weeks. However, I’m beginning to fear the number of drunk Sarah Palins and Joe the Plumbers that will invade our streets come October 31st.

The Sarah Palin costumes are reportedly flying off the shelves at costume stores across the country, including “Miss Alaska” and “Hottie Palin Hunter.” The “Sexy Palin Trapper” costume is already sold out on the Ricky’s Halloween Costume website. (I couldn’t find any “hottie” or “sexy” Joe-the-Plumber costumes, but alas, the sexualization of women’s Halloween costumes and Sarah Palin are topics unto themselves).

Now don’t get me wrong – I would love to don some rimless glasses, spray my hair, put on some fake $150,000 clothes, and practice my best Tina Fey impression. However, part of the charm of Halloween is coming up with that original idea that stands head and shoulders above the rest. I will never forget dancing at a party with that wine-in-a-box lady years ago. Not only was the “Franzia” logo expertly reproduced, but you could gently reach over in between songs and refill your glass with some refreshing merlot. How convenient!

As for me, I think I’m going to dress up as something truly scary – the economy. We’ll see how that goes.

What are you planning to be for Halloween?

*Update: I am no longer going as the economy. It’s too vague and depressing for me to tackle at the last minute. Instead, I will be going as my favorite internet meme of all times:

Spaghetti Cat!