Saturday

Katrina is a powerful and dangerous Gulf hurricane.

OK. Now for the real news.

100,000 Shiites protest federalism, in a massive show of political force by Cleric Moqtada al Sadr, Reuters LINK.

Sunnis on constitutional committee propose 15 resolutions, after already receiving the last, "best" offer from Shiite/Kurd powers-that-be, Washington Post LINK. Sunnis have "condemned" (NY Times lede) the charter as it stands, NY Times LINK.

Bush's radio address calls for patience, NY Times LINK. Excerpt:

"Iraqis are working together to build a free nation that contributes to peace and stability in the region, and we will help them succeed," Bush said in his weekly radio address.

He gave no sign of dismay at serious snags in Iraq's democratic process.

And...

"Like our own nation's founders over two centuries ago, the Iraqis are grappling with difficult issues, such as the role of the federal government,'' he said. ''What is important is that Iraqis are now addressing these issues through debate and discussion -- not at the barrel of a gun."

Which of course is not true.

John Thune saves Ellsworth, NY Times LINK.