The economic policy of rich nations: A dangerous experiment in cutting spending and raising taxes, straight out of the 1930s.

Hiring: Weak.

Jobless benefits: Democrats try, yet again, to extend them. This time in the Senate.

Hurricane Alex: Headed toward Texas and Mexico.

World Cup: Larissa Riquelme will run naked if Paraguay wins.

The Kagan hearings: Day three, live here.

The Seattle Conspirators: Alleged Russian spies cooed over their toddlers, complained about smokers, and griped about upstairs neighbors overwatering their plants while in Seattle.

Gulf oil spill: Good time to be in the oil skimmer construction business.

Barefoot bandit: Warrant issued in Nebraska.

And local fireworks: Through history.