Alright, that's it for me this week. See you all again next time. Though I must begin this round-up on a sad note…

Last month, Robert Stein, author of the blog Connecting the Dots (which made numerous appearances here in MBRU), as well as a guest contributor over at my place, died at the age of 90.

An active blogger right up to the end of March, Bob led an amazing life as an editor, publisher, media critic, and journalism teacher. (Go to his site and have a look at the wonderful photo album his family posted, including photos of Bob with celebrities and politicians, as well as more domestic moments.) My own relationship with Bob was limited to e-mails and our joint interest in political blogging, but even in our limited interaction over the years I could tell he was a warm, kind, generous, and truly remarkable man. I have an obituary up at my place. (I also recommend Bob's wonderful post, one of his last, "The View from 90.") Rest in peace, Bob.

Okay, now on to some links:

The Rude Pundit: Nine years after Katrina.

Squatlo-Rant: Forced bloodlettings in Tennessee.

The Weekly Sift: Not a Tea Party, a Confederate Party.

The Galloping Beaver: Sir Robert Peel vs. America's police state.

On a really happy note, we're just days away from the start of the NFL regular season. Go Steelers!

Round-up by Michael J.W. Stickings of The Reaction. (Twitter: @mjwstickings.)

Send requests and suggestions to mbru@crooksandliars.com (with "For MBRU" in the subject line).