Where to Find Political Humor in Iowa: Try the High Schools!by Linda Thieman
In these bright, sunny, warm days of Iowa winter, when Spring Fever sprouts early because of global warming, it’s good to know where an Iowan can find a cheerful place to go.
Perhaps you took notice of a news story that came out this week that said that “Laughter is good for the heart because it prolongs life, … according to two new studies.” As a matter of fact, one of the studies recommends 15 minutes of laughter per day. [Oh, heck, yet another thing to add to the schedule.]
Blog for Iowa would like to contribute to the heart health of our dear readers, and since you’re probably not going to find anything funny to watch on TV, how about trying the two Iowa websites below.
According to the Des Moines Register, funny in and of itself although not usually intentionally, West Des Moines Valley High’s official school newspaper, The Spotlight, is satirized in an online publication called The Stoplight. The Stoplight skewers everything from the dress code to national politics.
WASHINGTON– Days after an astonishing election in which Feudalist Party Candidates for President, House, and Senate lost elections nationwide, Presidential Candidate Maximillian XXIII and leader of the Feudalist Party issued a concession speech....
Political analyst Art Vandalay told the Stoplight, "The Feudalist Party simply was not able to connect to voters at the most basic level. Their platform of abolishing income taxes, cities, last names, and generally returning to 'ye good olde days' did not resonate with voters in the way they thought it would....”
Also in the fine tradition of Iowa high school satire, according to the DMR, students at Dubuque's Hempstead High School started the online satirical EqOnion two years ago. Their motto: "We jump to conclusions so you don't have to!"
Since all the original satirists have graduated from high school, Josh Lichti still updates the site from Iowa State University, where he is now a freshman. Hard to find good satirists, says Lichti, when most high school students don’t pay any attention to the news.
Bush Preemptively Attacks Caribbean Sea
Strategic strikes will end hurricane assaults.
“We will no longer stand for the complete lack of concern for human life recently displayed by the Caribbean and its weapons of mass destruction,” declared [George W.] Bush earlier today at a press conference at his ranch in Texas.
While the scientific principles behind the attack are still uncertain, advisers to [Bush] are certain the preemptive measure is not only necessary, but possible.
”The United States will no longer stand for blatant attacks by freedom haters like Ivan, Francis, and Charles. If we weren’t meant to do this, God Almighty would not have given us this power. Now, let Operation Soaring Eagle commence!” exclaimed a lively John Ashcroft at the Bush ranch.
