The chips contain codes that can be read by scanners, which are used increasingly in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and police departments, and can be checked against pet-owner databases. One kind of microchip has helped to return more than 17,000 dogs and cats to their homes since 1995. In parts of Puget Sound, fishermen may not use weights of more than two ounces, so that hooks will not sink far enough to attract chinook, a deep-running fish. In terms of both geographical scope and impact on human beings, this is one of the broadest applications of the act ever. It is unclear whether the spate of recalls is due to a rising incidence of contamination or merely reflects improved surveillance procedures.
Experts recommend reheating hot dogs and cold cuts until they are steaming.
Although it is considered a major Chinese opera, The Peony Pavilion is rarely performed in full, because it is 20 hours long. The festival performances will take place in installments over three or four days. The Skywatcher's Diary Daily information on the skies posted by Michigan State University's Abrams Planetarium. Full Moon, also known this month as the Thunder or Hay Moon. Illustrations by Harry Campbell.