Most read: Shouldering the burden

Gov. Mike Easley's shoulder was in the news this week.

Three posts about the governor's surgery made the most-read list this week thanks to links from the front page of the N&O and Wonkette.

1. Bump Lump: Easley said he realized he needed surgery after a famous fist bump. He'd rather be in the emergency room with Barack Obama than the front of the bus with John McCain...

2. Doctor's Orders: Easley's doctor says he'll have to avoid "strenuous activity" until next year. Luckily for him, the legislature's already out of session.

3. Juvenile Justice: The state auditor found that some recipients of juvenile justice money had conflicts of interest. And no, they weren't promoting delinquency.

4. No Show: After speaking at the last three, U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole will skip this year's GOP convention. She's busy washing that man right out of her hair.

5. Like a Surgeon: Easley's doctor said he was out of surgery and not feeling any pain. Apparently, he hasn't gotten the bill for the co-payment yet.