NYT columnist Nicholas Kristoff talks about the stunning progress made by Portland, Or. in cutting greenhouse emissions -- and the benefits that has spawned.

The BBC's John Simpson says based on the 30-year track record of the summits, don't expect any big breakthroughs from the G8 leaders in Africa.

But do expect to see some evidence of the fault lines between them -- not just on Africa, but the other biggie: climate change.

The Globe and Mail is reporting that the federal government will not engage in a last-minute change of heart in terms of upping aid to Africa.

Wow, 229! Makes us feel like pups up here at a mere 138! :)

Anyways, have a great day, and thanks for (in no particular order): Baseball, hot dogs, jazz, blues, country, rock 'n roll, bluegrass, Stax Volt, New York City, constitutionally protected freedom of speech, Jon Stewart and the Daily Show (which includes at least one Soviet Canuckistani infiltrator), Hunter H. Thompson, the Onion, Martin Scorcese, Michael Moore and much more than my fatigued brain can list right now.

Thanks for being a great country to visit. The friendliness, hospitality and generosity of spirit I've experienced on trips to the U.S. have left an indelible positive mark on me.

I may have issues with your current administration, but to my mind, the sins of the government shouldn't be visited on the people.

Enjoy the fireworks tonight!

The NYT's globalization cheerleader Thomas L. Friedman has a cure for what ails Old Europe: A taste of Irish medicine.

Did you know PM PM is spending two days there before he goes to the G8 summit in Gleneagles?