Mornin’, everyone. I would have gotten here sooner, but I had a column deadline.

I’m helping out with the guest-blogging while Michelle’s in–where was it she said?– Fargo? Filling in for Michelle is a daunting task indeed, so thanks to both Michelle and her readers for having us and giving us a shot.

I’m Mary Katharine Ham, and I’ve filled in here once before, and shown up on Hot Air TV a couple times. This is my introduction post from those days– likes, dislikes, career history, fingerprints, retina scans– that kind of thing. You should read that one because the only thing of note that I can add to it is that I’m a blogger at Townhall who boasts the same hometown as one of the most famous D.A.s in the history of law– Mike Nifong!

Now, to the news. So far today, I’ve learned NYC is “waiting for the gas to pass,” a Metro train in D.C. hopped the tracks injuring 20 yesterday, and downtown Austin was shut down in the wake of dozens of suspicious bird deaths.

No reported human injuries in NYC or Austin, and only one serious injury in D.C. No indication of terrorism.

Stay safe out there. Maybe an umbrella would help? Back with more later.

You can reach me at mkham at townhall dot com, and read me here when I’m not, you know, here.

Update: Mitch of Louisville, Ky. wins the prize for being the first to correctly identify the lyrics in the headline for this post. It was indeed the Hollies’ “Bus Stop,” which has always been one of my favorites.

There’s not really a material prize, per se, but thanks to You Tube, everyone can watch a live performance of this classic. Good stuff.