In need of an overhaul

• Today’s metaphor for America’s decline: The U.S. as LAX.  Thomas Friedman makes a salient point. (Fresno Bee)

• An international incident over full body scanners: A parliamentary delegation of Pakistani officials refused to go through scanners at Washington’s Dulles Airport, instead electing to return to Pakistan. (Press TV)

• The U.S. DOT shut down Tierra Santa Inc., the bus company involved in a crash that killed six people in Arizona last week. The company had a number of shady dealings, including a poor safety record and improper authorization to transport passengers over state lines. (LATimes)

• The fits and starts of Philly’s urban regeneration (Philadelphia Inquirer)

• Time for New Deal 2.0?  American mayors want a remake of the FDR-inspired plan to tackle unemployment and infrastructure problems. (Wall Street Journal)

• A random act of kindness is recognized by a Boston commuter. (Christian Science Monitor)

• If sustainable design wins out, tourists could enjoy a Central Asian Switzerland. (Eurasianet)

• While many in Africa go hungry, foreign countries are increasing their hold on the continent’s arable land for the benefit of their own populations. (Guardian UK)

• Kudos to Bloomington High School South for their “Calories to Kilowatts” program.  The Panthers have a gym that’s absolutely electric. (AP)