COVER

Welcome Aboard (The Democratic Ticket)

In exclusive photos, TIME photographer Diana Walker captured the key moments when the running mates and their families joined together and hit the campaign trail

Inside The Decision: The Gleam Team (The Democratic Ticket)

In his choice of running mate, Kerry made the gamble that a fresh face would electrify the campaign. An inside look at the team's battle plan to win the election's key voters

John Edwards: The Natural (The Democratic Ticket)

Sunny yet driven, John Edwards was born to run, but has he come too far too fast?

WORLD

Living With The Fear

In Iraq the daily grind involves power shortages and terrifying violence. Here's one family's story

How to Free A Hostage

Kidnapping foreigners is a booming business in Iraq, but there is a science to winning their release

SCIENCE

RELIGION

Chapter 11, Verse 1

Snarled in scandal, an archbishop declares his diocese bankrupt. Will other leaders follow?

SPORT

BRIEFING

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

BUSINESS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

YOUR TIME

Fifteen Candles (Lifestyle)

Quinceaneras--coming-of-age parties for Latina girls--are going mainstream

SPECIAL SECTION

Artistic Explosion (Time Bonus Section August 2004: Generations)

Opera, one-act plays, comedy, music and much more. It's time once again for the Edinburgh summer festivals

Still Swinging (Time Bonus Section August 2004: Generations)

A Pilates devotee who has been at it for six decades

Heart And Soul (Time Bonus Section August 2004: Generations / Turning Point)

Learning to sew at 5 helped mold a pioneering surgeon

Ask Francine (Time Bonus Section August 2004: Generations)

How to help an ailing mother-in-law and keep your sanity

PEOPLE

LETTERS