Quickies: Rooks are the new black

• The month of incessant Ben Franklin continues: today, we all learn that Ben Franklin published the first book about chess in Russia. And, not only that, but this column mentions Latvia, quizzo and features characters named Sal, Roz and The Master. (Sounds like a plot for Matrix 4.) [Metro]

• Speaking of convicted sexual assaulter Tracy McIntosh, his job in Milan may be in doubt. But his lawyer says it was due to erroneous press reports in Italy that he was a serial rapist. Because, you know, if you only raped once, it’s not a big deal, right? sigh. [Inky]

• The choking game: “There’s no way to win,” sez a police officer. I’m telling you: if they bring back the old school cable boxes that allow you to kind of see the porn channel in scramblevision, kids will stop doing shit like this. [Bucks County Courier Times]

• Hey, people: Everything’s all peachy keen between Webber and A.I., okay? In related news, the Sixers have won three straight. If you want a different answer, talk to Webber after the Sixers fall back below .500. [DN]