They looked “militant”?—“In the Gaza Strip, Israeli troops shot dead two Palestinian militants who edged close to the border fence with Israel. An Israeli army spokesman said the two were unarmed when they approached the fence but were carrying binoculars and cell phones, possible signs that they were planning an attack.”—Boston Globe.

It only fuels the engine—Reporting wage losses and a stagnant job market in the closing months of 2003, a USA Today headline observed: “Job market not keeping pace with economy.”

“Rip-off 101”—That’s the title of a study by a group of University of California students on the incredible price of required text books. New books average $102.44! Used copies average $64.80. But they’re scarce as proverbial hen’s teeth.

Progress report—A new ferry has been built to shuttle between Camden, Alabama, and the isolated Gees Bend community on the Alabama River. Ferry service was grounded 32 years ago to prevent Black residents of Gees Bend from crossing the river to stage a protest in the county seat. The new ferry will make the crossing in 30 minutes. The current road takes an hour. Ferry service was to resume in early February, but the new boat is grounded in shallow water. Stay tuned.

Adds a touch of excitement—“LONDON—Rail managers have launched an investigation into the faulty wiring on the West Coast Mainline. Inquiries are being made into how signaling cables on a 100 mph section were connected incorrectly. Signalers on a section of track could not tell where trains were.”—The Times, London.

Larger plates needed—The Church of England is coping with a steady dwindling of membership, down 4 percent by last count. Those remaining steadfast are being told they must raise an extra £5 million a year (US$9.5 million) to finance stipends for area bishops—chauffeurs, dinner parties, gardens, etc  
 
 
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