Flag is star attraction at American History museum (Baltimore Sun)

T he Star-Spangled Banner has a snazzy new home - and it's already the talk of the town.

AG history saved in Branch millstone, Bridge Street Bridge (Arroyo Grande Times Press Recorder)

One of the oldest relics of South County history has been placed on public display in the Village of Arroyo Grande, and the South County Historical Society is asking for help to pay for the exhibit.

Irrigation, city and fire department all turn 100 (Messenger Index)

Save July 4, 2009 for a “Star Spangled Century” celebration as the City of Emmett, Emmett Fire Department and Emmett Irrigation District all turn 100 years old. There may be more in the community, but Emmett Fire Chief Shannon Crays doesn’t know about them.

CNN - Obama Could Rebrand America, Experts Say (KSAT San Antonio)

President-Elect Barack Obama Could Restore The United States' Image In The International Community, Experts Say. Obama Represents A "Clean Break" From The Past, And His Election Is The First Big Step Toward Change, Said Dick Martin, Author Of "Rebuilding Brand America."  

Joe Posnanski: The age-old dilemma: when to retire (Sports Illustrated)

Some years ago, I sat in Cleveland Municipal Stadium on a cold July day -- every day was a cold day at old Cleveland Municipal -- and I watched the great pitcher Steve Carlton get smacked around like Carlo from The Godfather. Carlton, of course, had been one of the dominant pitchers of his time; "Future Hall of Famer" was an official part of his name.