For those concerned about carbon emissions, that's half way to a good news story, as gas-burning is less dirty than coal, but it's still a long way short of good for the environment.

BBC: Energy bills, and loose change

As with Katrina, there is a back story for government's dysfunction: It's a long saga involving the fervent renunciation of the idea of financial regulation, bought-and-paid-for tax favors, confusion about how globalization affects money markets, a general ignorance about the modern financial world and a stunning lack of common sense.

NPR: Katrina's Unlearned Lessons Leave Financial Mess

In Biogen Idec's story is one of the biggest lessons of biotech: Betting on the right drug goes a long way.

FORBES: Biogen Idec Hits A Nerve