Alright compatriots, I'm pulling an Iraqi Parliament and heading out for a week of vacation tomorrow.  Off to California to enjoy some sun and some family.

In my absence TPM intern Evann Smith will be watching all the action, trying to make sure fights don't get too bloody on MJ's threads, etc. If you need to contact her, her profile is here.  Be nice.

To support the AIDs Foundation, purchase this handbag!

This blurb, along with a glossy picture of a Gucci bag (or some such garnish of cool), accompanied this article about a doctor in Africa in the latest Marie Claire. Another part of the page screamed "look good while doing good!" It's just one example of the new trend of materialism-as-activism.

The Bono-endorsed "(PRODUCT) RED" campaign is another. If you buy this iPod or this razor phone, a portion of your money will go to buying anti-retrovirals to send to Africa. "At no cost to you" the (RED) Manifesto reads, you can help save lives.

At no cost to you!

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