NATIONAL
Fireworks injuries increase
About 10,800 children and adults were treated for fireworks injuries last year, up from 9,600 in 2004. It is part of a steady increase in fireworks-related injuries since 1996, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said in a report. pg 4A
Most read food labels, poll says
Most shoppers read food labels, a recent poll found - but it doesn't dissuade them from making unhealthy choices in the grocery store. And the labels don't seem to be having much effect on obesity rates. pg 5A
MARYLAND
Study OKs teen-driver limits
A comprehensive federally funded study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health on highway fatalities and laws that govern 16-year-old drivers confirms what past research has suggested: Strict driving rules for teenagers can save lives. The report, being released today, found far fewer fatal crashes caused by 16-year-old drivers in Maryland and other states that have tough restrictions. pg 1A
Counties get disaster aid
President Bush has granted federal disaster aid for Caroline and Dorchester counties for the extensive cleanup and repair effort after last week's torrential rainfall. pg 1B
WORLD
Most-wanted Iraqis list released
A new list of most-wanted Iraqis, released by Iraq's government yesterday, includes Saddam Hussein's wife and one of his daughters, as well as the new leader of al-Qaida in Iraq. Iraqi officials have long alleged that Hussein's relatives who fled the country have been financing insurgent groups linked to the former ruling Baath Party. pg 8A
Israel loses diplomatic patience
Israel shelled northern Gaza early today, with targets including a building it says is used by the Fatah-associated Al Aqsa Martyrs' Brigade. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert signaled that the government is losing patience with diplomatic efforts to end the crisis over the kidnapping of an Israeli soldier. pg 9A
TODAY
Skulls hit fashion world
The latest craze to hit the fashion world looks like something from a Johnny Depp movie: skulls and crossbones showing up on everything from jewelry to swimsuits to baby clothes. pg 1C
Work of Sun artist on display
The acerbic wit of former Sun cartoonist Richard Yardley is on display in an exhibition at the Maryland Museum of Military History. The exhibit spans the award-winning satirist's 49 years at the Sun. pg 1C
SPORTS
Braves top O's, Benson
The Braves pounded the Orioles, 10-3, at Turner Field in Atlanta. The loss was the second straight time Orioles starter Kris Benson had been asked to pitch on three days' rest, and he floundered. pg 1D
Tie in U.S. Women's Open
Annika Sorenstam and Pat Hurst were tied after 36 holes of the U.S. Women's Open at Newport (R.I.) Country Club and will play a full round today to decide the winner. Michelle Wie finished in a three-way tie for third. pg 1D
QUOTE OF THE DAY
"I've been looking forward to this. This is going to be awesome."
Thru-hiker Kenny Martin, on the Dahlgren bathhouse, the only state-run hot shower for Appalachian Trail hikers Article, PG 1A
Up next
Tomorrow
Residents' connections to Old Glory
Marylanders talk about what the American flag means to them.
in TODAY
Wednesday
New York's international street feast
Catering to New York's restless and roving appetite, a variety of outdoor vendors sell standard fare like hot dogs and soft pretzels encrusted with salt, as well as exotic items from across the globe: South Indian dosas, Argentinian empanadas and Asian noodle soups.
in TASTE
ONLINE
TODAY
Personal finance
Download personal finance columnist Eileen Ambrose's latest podcast at: www.baltimoresun .com/ambrose
You don't say
Read John McIntyre's witty and informative blog on the English language at: www.baltimoresun .com/youdontsay
