The Tuesday Cutline…a Winner!

Did this week’s photo tickle you with laughter? Or did it leave you with the same expressions of confusion that the photographed passersby are sporting? Here’s the original caption to the photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images:

“A person dressed as Elmo waits for people to pose with him for tips in Times Square, NY. Part of a growing trend of street performers and hawkers, dozens of individuals can be found around Times Square dressed in costume asking for money. The behavior of many of these individuals has come into question lately as incidents of fights, smoking and swearing have resulted in confrontations and arrests. As the characters classify themselves as street performers, they are protected by First Amendment rights and cannot be forcibly removed from the streets.”

This week’s photo proves that our Art Beat fans are also Sesame Street experts. It seemed that every other caption submitted included some form of the “Sesame Street” or “Elmo’s World” theme song. Others turned giant Elmo into a much edgier version of the character. But this week’s winner was able to connect a packed Times Square with Sesame Street’s grouchiest resident. Congrats to Josh Osborn! You’ve won a NewsHour mug for your winning caption:

“At least Oscar had a trash can to live in…”

Thank you all for playing along. Join us next week for another Tuesday Cutline.

About the Tuesday Cutline: Every other Tuesday, we post a photo. You compose a witty/ funny/ creative caption, submit it by Friday at 5 p.m. ET in the comments section or on the NewsHour’s or Art Beat’s pages. The following Tuesday we pick one winner. Everyone celebrates.