Another Monday, another round of news, plus a deeper look at the Crisis from Simon Johnson's crew at Baseline Scenario. (Hat tip of the day goes to @saalon.)

From Baseline Scenario: What's causing the crisis? (Part 1, part 2)

From the New York Times: Omens of a long recession/ Where were the credit ratings agencies?

From the Financial Times: Company crashes set to hit record next year?

From the Wall Street Journal: Economic-stimulus hopes rally indexes in Asia.

From the LA Times: College application plans change as family budgets shrink/ Debt-laden Tribune Company explores possible bankruptcy filing.

From the Chicago Tribune: Plant sit-in reaches fourth day.