Just as we were done drying off from Deluge 2006, Mother Nature had to come along and dump some more rain on us yesterday. How rude. And now that NBC 4 is reporting that we may see some strong thunderstorms today and tomorrow, we’re starting to question where her allegiances may lay. Rain, on the Fourth of July? For shame, Mother Nature, for shame.

Slots Petition Drives Kicks Off: Does anyone wants slots in the District? If so, look for one of the many out-of-town canvassers that may be haunting area Metro stations and grocery stores for signatures, because they need yours, writes the Post. The initiative, which would place 3,500 slot machines in Southeast, requires 19,000 valid signatures from D.C. residents to get on the November ballot, where voters will be able to decide whether to push it forward or leave it behind. A similar signature-gathering drive two years gathered 56,000 signatures, but was thrown out after news emerged of widespread signature forging by canvassers.

Iraq Vet Killed in Arlington: NBC 4 tells us that a 24-year-old veteran of the war in Iraq was shot and killed early Friday morning by Pentagon Row, a popular and peaceful shopping area next to Pentagon City. Police are still searching for information regarding the killing.

Metro Considers Service Improvements: Beyond putting musicians and performers on station platforms or allowing retail kiosks in certain stations, Metro is considering some improvements that may actually improve service. The Post reports that Metro is considering proposals to add express lanes at fare gates for SmarTrip card users and is looking to increasing bus service along the busy Georgia Avenue lines. The express lanes are set to kick off in three area stations in October, while the rapid bus lines will debut in September.

Briefly Noted: Virginia debates whether or not to be open-minded … District adds rubber sidewalks … MS-13 involved in triple homicide … Monkey escapes from Roanoke Zoo … Cancer survivor named Miss Maryland.

Picture snapped by andertho