12 August 2004

  • New York's currently: leftover puddles
  • As U.S. and Iraqi forces wage assault against Sadr militia in Najaf, Shiites warn U.S. not to harm an ancient mosque whose history in rebellion and worship is extraordinary.
  • Idealism, desire for martyrdom two big reasons militia has gathered around Sadr.
  • Freak lightning storm hits New York [see photo], breaks rainfall records, floods streets, and electrocutes two motorists.
  • If you haven't been there, you just don't know. But more, if you've been there and perpetuate the myths, you know even less. Op-ed from veterans and writers in defense of John Kerry's service.
  • New York restaurants switching off the lights, cranking up their air conditioners to celebrate the anniversary of the blackout.
  • With troop numbers stretched thin, Army turns to the private sector for base security personnel. And: Border guards now get more responsibility; bomb dogs now get more money.
  • Red-footed falcon reported on Martha's Vineyard--the first time one's been spotted in the Western hemisphere--and birders from all over flock to see it.
  • Baggage screeners at La Guardia and JFK busted after celebrities complain about missing suitcase items.
  • Dave Davies of the Kinks in partial paralysis from June stroke.
  • In no way related to the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, a wealth of tracks from British Sea Power that would make even Nelson titter.
  • A collection of stunning aerial photos.
  • A bevy of awfully ugly dresses.
  • Attention all those who favor sarsaparillas and white russians: LebowskiFest begins this Friday in New York.
  • A gallery of guitars constructed from Legos.
  • How the sound of your name affects your sexiness. ("Paul" didn't fare well.) Related: Ringo look-alike scamming Americans.