I’d rather see Shaq vs. Kobe

Elizabeth Bumiller’s lede in this morning’s New York Times

Tickets to all official inaugural events, including an “elegant” candlelight dinner with a special appearance by President Bush: $100,000.

Tickets to all official inaugural events, two additional tickets to an “exclusive” lunch with Mr. Bush and Vice President Cheney, plus an all-access pass to any inaugural ball: $250,000.

Telling your friends, “As I explained to the president just the other day… .”: priceless.