One reason this site is set up the way it is is that I want a fast way to check some of my favorite sites. In case you're one of the folks who doesn't look at them with the fervor with which I do, let me recommend yet again that Mark Evanier has some of the best pop culture commentary in the biz. In fact, in several bizzes. (Well, "bizes" didn't look right. What can I say?)

At any rate, I hope vast numbers of people will take to heart his posting on "questions from the audience." He has an update on it today, but please look at the original -- and tell your friends. He's not the only person I've read on the subject (and I've heard Neil Gaiman do a devastating impression of the sort of questioner under discussion) but, as one of the best panel hosts around, Mark certainly knows whereof he speaks.

On a completely different "links" topic, I note that www.maggiethompson.com has been offline for a day or so; I'm assured that The Problem Is Being Solved. Just not yet.

And, finally, I was delighted to hear on this morning's Weekend Edition Saturdaya lovely interview with Bob Elliott, who seems in fine fettle, as he prepares to turn 85. I'm not sure the interview conveyed the hilarity of his comedy sketches with partner Ray Goulding (and I have known a very few people who never have grasped their talents). But do listen to it -- and to the links offered there. Wonderful.