September 4, 2006 | Vol. 168 No. 10

How the Stars Were Born (Space)

For the first time ever, scientists are taking an incredible journey to the dawn of the universe

Don't Mess with Nancy Pelosi (Profile)

The California congresswoman leads the Democrats with a fiery style that could make her the first woman Speaker of the House

How Veterans' Hospitals Became the Best in Health Care

No longer a nation's shame, veteran care is acing competitors - and showing that maybe national health care isn't such a bad idea after all

Frustration Nation (White House Memo)

Like past Presidents, Bush becomes introspective. Momentarily

The Middle East War For Hearts and Minds

By rushing to rebuild Lebanon, Hizballah and Iran are spreading their influence in the Middle East. Can the U.S. do more?

The End of Invincibility

Why the stalemate in Lebanon has made Israelis more determined to strike harder next time

China: China: First Person: Blind Justice (China)

The saga of a brave activist reveals both the pity and the promise of China

The Great Wall of Arabia (Notebook)

Fearing that sectarian fighting may spread south, the Saudi Kingdom wants to erect a fence along its border with Iraq

Banned: Fine Food and Fun (Notebook)

Iran's Hard Line Begins At Home (Notebook)

What's Next: Sep. 4, 2006 ( Notebook)

Numbers: Sep. 4, 2006 (Numbers)

Punchlines: Sep. 4, 2006 (Punchlines)

Milestones Sep. 4, 2006 (Notebook)

Verbatim: Sep. 4, 2006 (Notebook)

The Ana Log: Sep. 4, 2006 (Notebook)

Reporting from her Washington base camp, ANA MARIE COX dishes the dirt on D.C.

Bush's Brownie (Notebook / Update)

A Command For Africa (Notebook)

Sound & Light: Food for the Eyes and Ears (Innovators: Forging The Future / Sound & Light)

Whether illuminating rock concerts or lighting up Scottish highlands, they are showing us new ways to see and hear