Something kooky could still happen … The second presidential debate airs tonight, and the town-hall style is designed to keep the candidates on their toes. John Dickerson, Slate’s political correspondent,cautions John McCain and Barack Obama to watch out for “Ponytail Guy,” an audience member who scolds the candidates about the tone of the campaign. The name comes from a questioner at the 1992 debate who asked, “ You know, we’re not under oath at this point, but could you make a commitment to the citizens of the U.S. to meet our needs—and we have many—and not yours again?”

Fed hopes second daring plan does the trick … In a move called “radical” by the New York Times, the Fed Tuesday morning announced plans to buy large amounts of short-term debt, also called commercial paper. Analysts have frequently said the credit crisis is continuing because banks have been unwilling to lend to even reputable borrowers. With markets tightening across the world, the Fed’s purchase is designed to jump-start lending.

More than 100 injured during Thai protests … Anti-government protesters trapped hundreds of members inside the parliament building for over five hours, and police responded by firing tear gas and stun grenades. The well-planned encircling of the parliament building included razor wire and tires, and protesters had masks to protect from the tear gas. The protests in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, began in May and increased in intensity six weeks ago.

The bad environmental news just keeps coming … A comprehensive international survey of the world’s wild mammals, conducted over five years by 1,700 researchers in 130 countries, concludes at least one fourth of the species may face extinction. Marine mammals face extra challenges because they frequently get hit by passing ships or entangled in fishing line. Habitat loss and hunting and poaching are putting all mammals at risk.

OK, so it’s not the Yankees … but you have to agree the Tampa Bay Rays-Boston Red Sox match-ups were a lot more compelling this season. The rivalry continues in the American League Championship Series, after the Red Sox defeated the LA Angels of A on Monday and the Rays beat the Chicago White sox. In the National League series, the Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers face off. And imagine if the Red Sox and Dodgers met in the World Series! Dan Shaughnessy’s head will explode.