If I recall correctly, George W. was originally depicted simply as an asterisk, a take-off on the “point of light” icon that had depicted his father.

This was, of course, a reference to the dubious results of the 2000 election in which he came to office for his first term. Many people, including Garry Trudeau, felt that any list of U.S. Presidents should carry an asterisk next to his name, since he was not, in their view, legitimately elected.

The cowboy hats and other sorts of hats were added to the asterisk later on, I believe.

you must be mighty proud being able to feature Ben’s music on the show. I went to look for a picture of Wetbrain.
http://anneisaman.blogspot.com/2007/09/twn-transitions.html

Put it on my blog, but I’d like to be sure the pic is right and point at the junior Shepherd on the fence….

Anne

Alas, a double-check with Barbara, the Resident Northern Virginia Nerd, confirms what I suspected: this picture is actually of another band named Wetbrain. (Who would have thought that there would be two of them?)

Thanks so much for playing George Hrab’s music. We love you here at Geologic Headquarters, not just for your impeccable taste in tunes, but your superlative word nerdiness.

Cheers,
Donna/Ms. Information for the Geologic Universe