Pakistan ravaged by floods, U.S. promises $150 million in aid
THATTA, Pakistan (AP) — The world has given or pledged more than $800 million to help Pakistan cope with massive floods.Pakistan is grateful for the assistance, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said.The floods began in late July in the northwest after exceptionally heavy monsoon rains, expanding rivers that have since swamped. The deluge has affected about one-fifth of Pakistan’s territory, straining the civilian government as it also struggles against al-Qaida and Taliban violence.At least 6 million people have been made homeless and 20 million affected overall.The U.S. has promised $150 million to help the country whose support it considers critical to winning the war in Afghanistan. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also urged nations to step up aid after a visit to Pakistan.
 
 
Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich will consider running for office again
CHICAGO (AP) — Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich said Sunday he won’t rule out another run for office if prosecutors fail to convict him at a second trial.Blagojevich was convicted of lying to federal agents. Jurors deadlocked on 23 other more serious charges, including allegations that he tried to sell President Barack Obama’s old Senate seat.Prosecutors have said they will retry Blagojevich on those charges.”I’m not lying to you, and I’m not lying to the people,” Blagojevich told talk show host Chris Wallace on “Fox News Sunday.”
 
 
Wildfire burns 2,000 acres outside San Diego, no homes in danger
SAN DIEGO (AP) — A pair of hikers and eight people were evacuated as a wildfire consumed thousands of acres of grasslands in rural San Diego County.The blaze began Saturday afternoon on the edge of Cleveland National Forest and quickly surged to 2,000 acres.Firefighters have stopped the progress of the blaze and say it is about 10 percent contained. Officials say there are no homes in immediate danger.
 
 
$578M public school opens in Los Angeles, most expensive ever built
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Next month’s opening of the Robert F. Kennedy Community School carries a price tag of $578 million, making it the nation’s most expensive public school ever.The K-12 complex will house 4,200 students and has raised eyebrows as the creme de la creme of “Taj Mahal” schools, campuses boasting both architectural panache and amenities.At RFK, the features include fine art murals and a marble memorial, a manicured public park and a state-of-the-art swimming pool.
 
 
Loaded gun hidden in a sofa leads to accidental shooting of a child
LAKE CHARLES (AP) — A Lake Charles man who hid a loaded gun under a sofa cushion — leading to the accidental shooting of a child — has been convicted on charges of negligent injury and possession of a stolen firearm.Latheris D. Thomas, 26, on Friday was given a suspended jail term, probation and ordered to pay $400 a month to the family of the wounded boy. It was unclear how long the payments will continue.
 
 
Ticket bought in New Orleans wins $990,648 in Louisiana Lottery
(AP) — The Louisiana Lottery Corporation reports one ticket matched all six Lotto numbers Saturday night to win a prize of $990,648.The winning ticket was purchased in New Orleans. The prize for the drawing on Wednesday is an estimated $250,000.
 
 
New Orleans Saints “Champions Square” opens near Superdome
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — New Orleans Saints fans gave good reviews to the newly opened “Champions Square” across from the Superdome.The 60,000 square foot venue, built where the old New Orleans Center shops and food court used to be, can handle up to 6,000 fans. It features live music, cold drinks and local food.On the 18-by-32-foot LED screen, fans watched highlights from last season and analysis from local sportscasters.The square is expected to open three hours before game time.No outside food or drinks are allowed.Superdome managers are hoping Champions Square will also serve as a venue for other, non-gameday related events. They are already talking about a possible October Fest, along with a concert series.