Festivus

 

According to the "Seinfeld Orthodoxy," Festivus is December 23. However, in the real world, many people celebrate it at other times of year, some throwing Festivus parties for friends and others they choose to be with in early December before they have to go home and be with the people they don't want to be with, namely their families. There are prominent Festivi all times of year. But if one adheres to the word of the character Frank Costanza, Festivus is the 23rd.

Look at the joy on the soon to be former Gov. Jim Doyle's face as he stands beside this majestic Festivus pole at the Governor's mansion. Priceless.

The Festivus would probably be an especially passionate exercise for Doyle and his fellow Democrats this year.

Like everything else Festivus, the AOG has evolved some wild variations, but the core of it remains lashing into others and the world about how they have been disappointments. This usually brings participants into a circle of sorts in which each takes turns excoriating friends, enemies, relatives, acquaintances and strangers. When all who care to have taken a turn griping, there is no required hugging or making up.