friday reads

Four years in the making, a groundbreaking new map of the state of the world's oceans was released today, and its message is stark: Human activity has left a mark on nearly every square kilometer of sea, severely compromising ecosystems in more than 40% of waters.


Tony Blair wrongly influenced due legal process when he used "irresistible pressure" to end the Serious Fraud Office's investigation into alleged bribery and corruption involving arms deals between BAE Systems and Saudi Arabia, it was alleged in the High Court yesterday.


Chad has declared a state of emergency for 15 days, granting extra government powers to restore order after recent rebel attacks.


The final House vote results for the adoption of H. Res. 979 and H. Res. 980, contempt of Congress resolutions.


Keith Olbermann's Special Comment on FISA.


Jonathan Schwarz: The Lost Kristol Tapes


Band bios and mp3s are now up for SXSW 2008 artists


Court overturns Texas ban on sex toys

A federal appeals court has struck down a Texas law that makes it a crime to promote or sell sex toys.

"Whatever one might think or believe about the use of these devices," said an opinion written by Justice Thomas M. Reavley of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans, "government interference with their personal and private use violates the Constitution."

Molly Ivins: Dildo Diaries