TOKYO Prosecutors on Thursday called for a three-year prison term for Yasuo Takei, the founder of Takefuji, a Japanese consumer finance company, for ordering illegal wiretaps and for defamation.

Prison call for Japan executive


WASHINGTON -- The heavy lifting has been done. The long plane rides to exotic lands and the tough nights on the road playing in front of raucous crowds are a memory for now.

Final round within reach for Americans


Donovan McNabb #39;s 11-yard touchdown pass to LJ Smith helped the Philadelphia Eagles take a 10-6 lead over the Minnesota Vikings at halftime on Monday night.

Eagles lead Vikings at halftime


Aston Villa goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen has pulled out of Denmark #39;s squad for Wednesday #39;s World Cup qualifier against Turkey because of a back injury, the Danish football association (DBU) said on Monday.

Danish keeper Sorensen ruled out of Turkey match


WASHINGTON -- Cingular Wireless has urged communications regulators to reject a request by rival Nextel Communications Inc. to lower the cost of its plan to swap airwaves with the government, which is aimed at reducing interference with public safety communications.

Cingular opposes Nextel plan


AP - Olympic silver medalist Mardy Fish beat Jan Hernych of the Czech Republic 6-2, 6-4 Monday to reach the second round of the St. Petersburg Open.

Fish Beats Hernych at St. Petersburg (AP)


AFP - British and Irish Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern were preparing to head to Belfast, hopeful of a breakthrough in the protracted deadlock over power-sharing in Northern Ireland.

N. Ireland deal hinges on IRA disarmament (AFP)


YANGON : At least two Myanmar dissidents were among thousands of prisoners being freed after the military government announced it had begun releasing more than 5,000 detainees in a third mass release in less than a month, relatives and officials said.

Two Myanmar dissidents freed in release of 5,000 prisoners <b>...</b>


Iran may resume uranium enrichment  quot;any moment, quot; the nation #39;s Intelligence Minister warned as Tehran toughened its rhetoric against an international demand it stop all enrichment activities to allay global concerns it is developing nuclear weapons.

Iran Says It May Resume Uranium Enrichment Any Time


Canon today introduced its new stylish five-megapixel PowerShot SD20 Digital ELPH cameras in four new colors, new thinner SD300/SD400 PowerShot cameras with 3x optical zoom, and its highest resolution 16.

Canon debuts new professional SLR, Digital ELPHs


Shaun Alexander scores three touchdowns on Sunday to get the Seahawks off to a good road-season start with a 21-7 victory over the New Orleans Saints.

No Road Woes Yet


STATE DEPARTMENT Secretary of State Powell is rejecting comments made by the UN secretary-general about the war in Iraq. In an interview with the BBC, Kofi Annan (KOH #39;-fee AN #39;-nan) called the US-led military

Powell rejects UN secretary #39;s claim that Iraq war was  quot;illegal quot;


AP - The Pakistan army said Saturday it will withdraw hundreds of troops from a tense tribal region near Afghanistan where Osama bin Laden and his top deputy were believed to be hiding.

Pakistani Troops Leaving Tribal Region (AP)


LONDON, September 15: Pakistan sent out a warning to India before their Champions Trophy Group C showdown with a seven-wicket demolition of Kenya at Edgbaston on Wednesday.

5/11 Afridi towers over the Kenyans


Mallorca fired coach Benito Floro on Monday after a string of poor results in the Spanish league, the team said on its website. Club president Mateu Alemany said the board of directors #39; decision was unanimous.

Mallorca fires coach after string of poor results in Spanish <b>...</b>


Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. (CCE.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the world #39;s largest bottler of Coca-Cola drinks, reported on Thursday a 20-percent drop in quarterly profit

Weak Sales Hurt Coke Enterprises Earnings


Alleged spammer Jeremy Jaynes must pay \$1 million in bail for sending as many as 15 million junk e-mails a day and bilking recipients of millions of dollars, a Virginia judge ordered this week.

\$1 million bond set for alleged spammer #39;s freedom


Clearing the way for homes and businesses to receive high-speed Internet services through their electrical outlets, the Federal Communications Commission adopted rules this week that would enable the utility companies to offer an alternative to the

3 state utilities may offer Internet via power lines


Switching to a new cell phone provider is supposed to be easier than ever due to new rules that let you keep your phone number. But jilted carriers aren #39;t giving up without a parting shot.

Cell phone switching can cost in billing


BRUSSELS: The European Union asked the US government on Friday to hold talks at the WTO on a trade row involving aviation giants Boeing and Airbus at the end of this month, an official said.

EU wants WTO talks on Boeing-Airbus


Khartoum - War in western Sudan #39;s Darfur province is often called a clash between Arab herders and African farmers, but it #39;s not that simple: Combatants on both sides are largely black Africans, for example, and the divide between them is more about

The war in Darfur


In all likelihood, US troops and the nascent Iraqi military will storm the rebel city of Fallujah in the very near future. The so-called  quot;City of Mosques quot; has been under sustained air assault

The eternal circle of the Iraqi insurgency


Coles Myer Ltd. Australia #39;s biggest retailer, increased second-half profit by 26 percent after opening fuel and convenience stores, selling more-profitable groceries and cutting costs.

Coles Myer Second-Half Profit Rises 26 on Groceries (Update3)


Avanade on Monday is partnering with Microsoft to release Enterprise Library, which features reusable code, tools, and guidance intended to make it easier to develop in the .Net environment.

.Net development gets new tools, code initiative


When the Houston Astros were fading from the National League Central Division race in July, their general manager, Gerry Hunsicker, took calls from contenders who were looking to cherry-pick the Houston roster.

Powered by Beltran, Astros Break Through in Playoffs


Mallorca, Spain (Sports Network) - Simon Khan stands at five-under par through 13 holes and holds a share of the lead during the first round of the Mallorca Classic.

First round at Mallorca suspended with two sharing lead


Reuters - Tibet's second-holiest monk, the Panchen\Lama, has visited Lhasa on a rare trip to the Himalayan region\by the living Buddha, whose selection in 1995 was marred by\controversy after the exiled Dalai Lama chose another boy.

Tibet's Second-Holiest Monk Makes Rare Lhasa Visit (Reuters)


AP - When several birds fell ill last year at Auburn University's respected raptor center, experts were shocked and puzzled by the explanation that the culprit was a lethal disease never seen before in birds of prey.

Study: Misdiagnosis Led to Birds' Deaths (AP)


Intel, the world #39;s largest chip maker, scrapped a plan Thursday to enter the digital television chip business, marking a major retreat from its push into consumer electronics.

Chronology of Intel #39;s delays and cancellations


AP - Archie Griffin has stood alone for 29 years as the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner. Oklahoma quarterback Jason White has a chance to match the former Ohio State tailback Saturday night.

White Could Join Griffin in Heisman Club (AP)


A man-made flood is roaring through the Grand Canyon in a bold experiment to restore the sandbanks of the Colorado river and to save fish and plants that have been disappearing over the past 40 years.

Scientists flood the Grand Canyon to restore sandbanks and save <b>...</b>


Reuters - Business travelers will be able to\surf the Web securely on long-distance flights by combining\services from Boeing Co. (BA.N) and iPass Inc. (IPAS.O), the\companies plan to announce on Monday.

Travelers Could Soon Report to Work Mid-Flight (Reuters)


AP - Readership of online journals known as blogs grew significantly in 2004, driven by increased awareness of them during the presidential campaign and other major news events, according to a study released Sunday.

Blog Creation, Readership Rise in 2004 (AP)


WASHINGTON - In a spy investigation that could strain U.S.-Israeli relations and muddy the Bush administration's Middle East policy, the FBI is investigating whether a Pentagon analyst fed to Israel secret materials about White House deliberations on Iran.    No arrests have been made, said two federal law enforcement officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the continuing investigation...

FBI Probes if Official Spied for Israel


Reuters - Britain is to reshape its overseas\diplomatic network, closing or turning over to local staff\several dozen posts, in a cost-cutting drive to pay for\embassies in Iraq and Afghanistan and to fight terrorism.

UK Reshapes Embassy Network to Face New Threats (Reuters)


Reuters - Scientists have unearthed the remains of\a perfectly preserved 130 million-year-old new species of\dinosaur which provide a first-ever look at how the prehistoric\creatures slept.

Fossil Hunters Find Sleeping Dinosaur in China (Reuters)


The Computing Technology Industry Association asked both campaigns to answer 12 technology-related questions to help the trade group's 20,000 members get information about their views.

Presidential candidates differ in IT questionnaire


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Global semiconductor sales rose 1.1  percent to \$18.2 billion in August from the previous month and  it appears as though chip inventories are declining, an  industry trade group said on Thursday.

Chip Sales Rise; Inventories Seen Down


OPEC is united on the need to raise its oil price target to an average \$30 a barrel, but the cartel has yet to agree on when to implement the higher level, a top Iranian oil official said on Thursday.

Iran: OPEC United on Raising Price Target


KITCHENER - A takeover offer for ThyssenKrupp Budd Canada sent shares of the automotive supplier up 72 per cent on the TSX on Monday.

Budd Canada shares up on takeover bid


Tommy Haas wants his name to generate some buzz again, and he took a step in that direction Friday with a second-round victory over Sbastien Grosjean at the U.S. Open.

Free of Pain, Haas Renews His Climb In Ranking


Manchester - Manchester United captain Roy Keane denied on Thursday assaulting a 16-year-old boy when he appeared before a magistrates court here.

United skipper Keane in court


(CBS/AP) Russia castigated the United States on Wednesday for its willingness to hold talks with Chechens agitating for independence and suggested the issue could harm bilateral relations, the Interfax news agency reported.

Anger At US Chechen Policy


Wasting little time, Omar Minaya has reportedly offered Pedro Martinez a three-year, \$37.5 deal, with an option for a fourth season.

Let the Bidding Begin


TRIPOLI (Reuters) - Libya signed a deal on Friday to pay  \$35 million in compensation for more than 160 victims of a  Berlin nightclub bombing in 1986, taking another major step  toward ending its international isolation.

Libya Signs to Pay \$35 Mln to Berlin Bomb Victims


The champion of the America East Conference this season likely will come from the ranks of last year's big three -- Boston University, Northeastern, and tournament winner Vermont.

Scheduling a rerun


PARIS (Reuters) - Yasser Arafat's wife accused Palestinian  leaders on Monday of plotting to

Arafat Wife Deputies Plotting to 'Bury Him Alive'


TOKYO, Japan -- Rescuers are trying to free a young girl trapped in a van beneath a landslide following Japan #39;s deadliest earthquake in a decade.

Girl trapped 5 days after quake


A decision by Brazil to raise its budget surplus target shows the government had  quot;solid control quot; of the country #39;s economic needs, an International Monetary Fund official said on Thursday.

UPDATE 1-Brazil budget surplus hike shows solid control-IMF


The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has approved a wireless standard that will expand international Wi-Fi roaming to Japan.

Wireless-J standard opens Japan to the Wi-Fi world


Motorola plans first use of the open-source software in the core of next-generation cell phone networks.

Motorola and HP in Linux tie-up


High-quality images of Titan, Saturn #39;s mysterious moon, tantalized and bewildered scientists yesterday, and they warned that NASA #39;s Cassini spacecraft may have to make several passes over the frozen world before it gives up its secrets.

Mysterious Moonscape Seen on Saturn #39;s Titan


Circuit City Stores Inc. (CC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the No. 2 US electronics chain, on Monday reported a surprise 4.3 percent drop in quarterly sales at stores open at least

UPDATE 1-Circuit City posts weak sales; shares fall


NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - Of eight midsized sedans tested for side impact protection, four earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety #39;s top rating of  quot;good.

Saab 9-3 tops in crash tests


WASHINGTON - President Bush never was disciplined while serving in the Texas Air National Guard, never failed a physical and never asked his father or family friends for help to get him into the Guard during the Vietnam War, the White House said Wednesday.    Meanwhile, the White House on Wednesday night produced a previously unreleased document from Bush's personnel file on his military service, seven months after it said all materials on the subject had been given to the public...

White House: Guard Never Disciplined Bush


Andre Agassi hasn #39;t played Davis Cup since 2000, but US captain Patrick McEnroe said he wouldn #39;t rule out a return for the eight-time Grand Slam champion.

Agassi could return for Davis Cup final


England #39;s cricket players started their Champions Trophy match without Vodafone Group Plc #39;s logo on their uniforms for the first time this year because the world #39;s biggest mobile phone

Vodafone, England Cricket Sponsor, Misses Out During Tournament


BC HIGH Coach: Jim Cotter (41st year, 232-139-17). Last year's record: 4-7. Returning starters (8): Chris Marinelli, TE/DT, 6-7, 275, Sr.; Jack Shields, QB, 6-6, 225, Jr.; Dan Capeless, FB, 5-11, 190, Jr.; Joe Hobin, OG, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Mike Cannon, OG, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Ryan Cooney, WB/FS, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Mariano Beecher, CB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Matt Fopiano, NG, ...

Catholic Conference capsules


Imperial Sugar appears to be a lot sweeter than it was a year ago, but challenges remain.

The Crash After the Sugar High


HAVING shown her indomitable spirit by winning the New York Marathon ten days ago, just 11 weeks after the trauma of Athens, Paula Radcliffe yesterday decided to turn her attention to scaling

Radcliffe back on track for world title


Bill Gates predicts a future for the entertainment industry in which traditional broadcast television is rendered irrelevant. It #39;s a positive vision, however, because new and

Gates Says Broadcast TV Model Faces Irrelevancy


That email from your bank may be more than a friendly enquiry. It could be the hook of a Phisher, the new breed of Internet fraudster intent on stealing money by tricking customers into divulging online account details.

Hackers go Phishing for Online Bankers


CHICAGO (Reuters) - Kmart Holding Corp. <KMRT.O> on Monday  reported its third consecutive quarterly profit as cost cuts  made up for slumping sales, and its cash pile grew to about  \$2.6 billion.

Cost Cuts Boost Kmart Quarterly Profit


The dollar was near record lows against the euro and its lowest level since March 2000 versus the yen on Monday after a meeting of the Group of 20 rich and developing nations suggested no effort to stem the dollar #39;s decline.

Dollar Near Record Lows, No G20 Support


Consumer spending accelerated in October as a surge in hiring led to the biggest rise in incomes in five months.

Hiring Spurt Helps Sustain U.S. Growth


Christopher Reeve's death Sunday deprives stem-cell research advocates of one of their most effective champions. But the wheels he help put in motion will continue turning, they promise.

Reeve Was a Super Activist


By MICHELLE SPITZER     JOHNSTON, Iowa (AP) -- Health officials are scurrying to secure flu vaccines so the elderly, who are most vulnerable to influenza, have first access to shots after the nation's supply was cut in half.

U.S. Making Flu Shots Priority for the Elderly


ATLANTIC CITY, NJ -- In seven Atlantic City casinos Thursday, the drinks will be poured and the beds made by union workers, ending a monthlong strike.

Atlantic City Casino Workers Vote To End Strike


PlanetOut Inc. showed a small gain in morning activity before shooting up more than 15 percent in recent trading, marking a successful initial public offering for the Web site operator while Thursday's second deal fell flat in its debut.

PlanetOut Soars in Public Trading Debut


Incumbent Hamid Karzai was declared the winner of last month #39;s Afghan presidential election Wednesday and now faces the task of forming a government minus the warlords and drug runners who tainted his last cabinet.

Karzai Win Gives Chance to Cleanse Afghan Government


Major Hollywood studios on Tuesday announced scores of lawsuits against computer server operators worldwide, including eDonkey, BitTorrent and DirectConnect networks, for allowing trading of pirated movies.

Hollywood sues computer server operators in major anti-piracy move


At approximately 12:05 yesterday morning, history was made in perhaps the most remarkable way imaginable. Amid the shouts of euphoria from transplanted Bostonians in rainy Collegetown, one singular theme could

A Classic Series Awaits


Paul Hamm traded his warm-up suit for a real suit Monday and shook hands with the man who wants to take away his gold medal. He then settled in for an 11 1/2 -hour hearing that will determine, once and for

Hearing to decide if gymnast Hamm will keep gold medal


Whether we arrive at Fenway in business suits or face paint, Red Sox fans have much in common. We are passionate and knowledgeable, as visiting players regularly report.

Waiting and hoping


Trondheim - Arsenal go into their Champions League clash with Norwegian champions Rosenborg on Wednesday looking to melt away the memories of their last visits to chilly climes.

Wenger happy to avoid penguins


But shares fall in after-hours trading even though the company reports a sharply higher 2Q profit. TORONTO (Reuters) - Research In Motion Ltd.

Research In Motion beats estimates


LONDON (CBS.MW) -- The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development cut its 2005 economic growth forecasts for the US, Japan and the eurozone, citing a period of sustained high oil prices.

OECD cuts growth outlook for US, Japan, Europe on oil


SHARM EL-SHEIKH, Egypt (Reuters) - An international  conference on the political future of Iraq on Tuesday pressed  the interim Iraqi government to make sure as many people as  possible take part in Jan. 30 elections.

Iraq Meeting Presses Baghdad to Seek Dialogue


AP - The outlook for the holiday season grew more positive Tuesday after major retailers, including Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and J.C. Penney Co. Inc., offered bullish comments about consumer spending as they reported solid earnings increases for the third quarter.

Retailers Offer Solid Holiday Outlook (AP)


Reuters - NYMEX crude oil futures jumped 36\cents in electronic trading on Monday evening to the\psychological  #36;50 a barrel level, the highest in the 21 years\oil futures have traded on the exchange, as Nigerian rebels\decided an

NYMEX Oil Rises on Nigerian Rebel Threat (Reuters)


Onterrio Smith, a key part of the Minnesota Vikings #39; 2-1 start, will miss the team #39;s next four games as he serves a suspension for violating the NFL #39;s substance abuse policy, the league announced Tuesday.

Vikings #39; Smith to begin four-game suspension


Intel Corp. updated its 2005 product plans at its analyst meeting in New York Tuesday, including a timetable for its so-called  quot;Ts, quot; the processor technologies that are beginning to take precedence over clock-speed increases.

Intel Firms Up Dual-Core Plans


PARIS -- Palestinian officials are starting to transfer some of Yasser Arafat #39;s power, as the longtime leader #39;s health appears to be deteriorating.

Palestinians Transferring Arafat #39;s Financial Power


Lebanon #39;s Cabinet voted Saturday to amend the country #39;s constitution to permit President Emile Lahoud to stay in office for three more years after his present term ends.

Lebanese Cabinet Votes to Extend President #39;s Term in Office


The blue-chip Dow Jones average closed below 10,000 for the first time in six weeks on Monday as a spike in oil prices to nearly USD50 a barrel renewed concerns about corporate profits.

Dow closes under 10,000 on oil fears


Leg spinner Anil Kumble captured seven wickets for 48 runs as Australia were dismissed for 235 on the first day of the second test on Thursday.

UPDATE 3-Kumble fells Australia, Warne equals record


China's biggest television exporter announced losses stemming in part from declining sales and a scandal involving its biggest U.S. customer.

Leading Chinese TV Exporter Has Huge Loss


What would Baby Jesus Think?


Chelsea drew 0-0 with Aston Villa in English soccer #39;s Premiership, failing to win for the first time this season. Arsenal kept its 100 percent record with a 3-0 defeat of Fulham to open a two-point lead atop the standings.

Chelsea, Villa Draw 0-0 in Premiership; Arsenal Wins (Update1)


AP - If Emmitt Smith can't go on Sunday in Detroit, undrafted rookie Larry Croom will start at running back for the Arizona Cardinals.

Rookie Back Set to Start for Cardinals (AP)


A quick glance down the list of clubs Paul Dickov has played for inexorably leads to one conclusion: the man is football #39;s eternal optimist.

Proof that size isnt everything


The shipment of jobs overseas is one of the most pressing economic issues of the presidential campaign. Here are 10 key facts of the matter.\

10 facts you should know about outsourcing


Reuters - Sony, the world's largest\consumer-electronics group, is having trouble meeting soaring\demand for flat televisions as its assembly lines did not gear\up quickly enough, a senior official said on Friday.

Sony Unprepared for Flat TV Demand (Reuters)


Thrust into a difficult position, Thaddeus Pollard didn't blink, he took off. As a matter of fact, he may not have stopped running yet.

Taunton's Pollard runs down Rams


AP - Colorado could end up writing an ugly sequel to the Florida election nightmare of four years ago.

Colo. Voting Woes Rise As Election Nears (AP)


TOKYO (Reuters) - The Japanese government downgraded its  view on the economy slightly on Tuesday, citing weaker exports  and output, but it said a recovery was continuing due to steady  domestic demand, in terms of both personal consumption and  capital spending.

Japan Less Rosy on Economy


A SENIOR Japanese official has dismissed Australia #39;s Southern Ocean whale sanctuary as legally baseless and insisted that his country will continue taking minke whales in the area.

Japanese reject legal basis of whaling case


AP - Ottawa Senators right wing Marian Hossa is switching European teams during the NHL lockout.

Senators' Hossa Heads to Swedish League (AP)


AP - Yankees closer Mariano Rivera said he plans to return from a family funeral in Panama on Tuesday in time for Game 1 of the AL championship series against Boston. Rivera flew home to comfort relatives after two members of his wife's family were electrocuted in his pool. The ALCS begins Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium.

Rivera Says He Plans to Return for Game 1 (AP)


General Electric Co. (GE.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the world #39;s top conglomerate, said on Monday it had sold a majority of its pioneering Indian back

UPDATE 2-GE sells India back office unit stake for \$500 mln


NORMAN, Okla. (Sports Network) - Jason White completed  29-of-35 passes for 383 yards and three touchdowns as No. 2  Oklahoma dominated Nebraska, 30-3, in Big 12 action at Memorial  Stadium.

Oklahoma Dominates Nebraska, 30-3


Mayban Unit Trust Bhd plans to double its total fund size to at least RM4bil by the middle of next year to capture a larger slice of the local fund management industry, said chief executive officer Shamsuddin Bahari.

Mayban Unit Trust eyes RM4b fund size


The 242-year-old Baring name is to pass into American ownership after it was sold by the Dutch bank ING which rescued it from collapse nearly a decade ago.

Leeson forgotten as the Baring name goes to US


CBC SPORTS ONLINE - The Buffalo Sabres agreed to terms with former first-round draft choice Thomas Vanek on Friday. The Sabres signed the left-winger, the fifth overall selection in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, to a three-year entry-level contract.

Sabres sign top prospect Vanek


LONDON, November 22 (newratings.com) - Dutch banking and insurance company, ING Group (INN.ETR), has agreed to sell its Baring Asset Management division in two separate deals, for collective net gains of about 250 million.

ING sells Baring assets; to focus on core businesses


AP - German officials voiced concern Monday that their country has the most to lose with President Bush's announcement that tens of thousands of troops will return to the United States over the next decade.

Germans Wary of U.S. Troop Withdrawal (AP)


MADRID (Reuters) - The Basque separatist group ETA set off  a series of bombs across Spain Monday, but no one was seriously  injured in the resurgence of violence by the outlawed  guerrillas, Spanish officials and media said.

ETA Sets Off Bombs Across Spain; No Serious Injuries


AP - Add America Online Inc. to the growing list of companies and organizations shunning a spam-fighting proposal from Microsoft Corp. AOL cited

AOL Shuns Microsoft Anti-Spam Technology (AP)


ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger hailed his side #39;s record unbeaten run as  quot;amazing quot; and then demanded they never let their guard drop.

They #39;re simply  #39;amazing #39;


Microsoft has followed a European company in withdrawing from a UN software standards group for commerce. Known as the United Nations Center for Trade Facilitation and Electronic

Microsoft leaves UN industry group


A cannabis-like chemical may be important for normal pregnancy, researchers believe.

Cannabis chemical pregnancy link


MUMBAI: It has been a long-running drama and it is Japanese electronics giant Sony Corp that has come out the winner at the end of it.

Sony Corp. acquires MGM Studios for \$5 billion


On the Web, a parallel universe of tiny, adorable accessories for tiny, adorable dogs.

Scampering to the Height of Fashion


So Paula Radcliffe is mortal, and probably now destined never to win an Olympic gold medal. For the past two years she has run like a goddess inexorably heading towards Athens glory.

Can Radcliffe Rise from Athens Ashes?


Reuters - Prime Minister Ariel Sharon said\Saturday that Israel should expand its massive raid of northern\Gaza, the army's biggest and deadliest offensive in more than\four years of conflict with the Palestinians.

Ariel Sharon Calls for Expansion of Army's Gaza Raid (Reuters)


Red Bull Racing has dropped plans for a 700-million euro (\$940 million) revamp of Austria #39;s A1-Ring grand prix track because of environmental concerns, team owner Dietrich Mateschitz said.

Red Bull drop A1-Ring expansion plans


Amazon.com, the world #39;s largest online retailer, and Microsoft, the world #39;s largest software developer, announced Tuesday the filing of several lawsuits against phishers and spammers.

Amazon, Microsoft team against online fraud


Pierre Salinger, a renowned figure from the Kennedy years in the White House, has died of heart failure. Salinger worked as press secretary for two US presidents, including John F. Kennedy, and worked on the

JFK AIDE SALINGER DIES AT 79


Airbus, the aerospace giant, has started talks with suppliers about building a rival to Boeing #39;s new commercial airliner, the 7e7 Dreamliner.

Airbus prepares rival to Boeing #39;s Dreamliner


The requirement is part of a trial run of a computer system that's supposed to ID terrorists before they can board the plane.

Feds order airlines to divulge passenger details


Referee Rene Temmink ended the Dutch first division match between ADO Den Haag and PSV Eindhoven 10 minutes early on Saturday after taking exception to insulting chants aimed at him by the home fans.

Referee halts Dutch league match over crowd insults


In the first admission of its kind, a senior Hamas official disclosed on Saturday that the movement has a number of factories in the Gaza Strip for manufacturing various types of weapons.

Hamas admits to having weapons factories in Gaza


AFP - The Finnish government said it would sell between 250 and 300 million shares, or as much as 6.4 percent of its stake, in Nordic telecommunications operator TeliaSonera.

Finnish government plans sale of 250-300 mln TeliaSonera shares (AFP)


AP - Democratic Sen. John Edwards accused President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney on Friday of manipulating facts and trying to frighten Americans in a desperate effort to win re-election.

Edwards: Bush, Cheney Manipulate Facts (AP)


Iraq's most influential Shiite cleric, Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, returned to the country on Wednesday and urged Iraqis to march on the

Sistani Returns to Iraq, Calls for March on Najaf


The men #39;s doubles draw was blown wide open at the US Open when top seeds and defending champions Jonas Bjorkman and Todd Woodbridge

Bjorkman, Woodbridge latest seeds to fall


Scheme offers freebies and discounts to academic institutions, as HP chases a slice of the already-crowded educational market.

HP gives schools a break


Jacques Kallis hit his 17th test century but India #39;s fast bowlers took wickets at regular intervals to restrict South Africa to 227 for five on the first day of the second and final test on Sunday.

UPDATE 2-India peg back South Africa despite Kallis ton


p2pnet.net News:- UK civil servants have been fired and  quot;disciplined quot; in a crackdown on Net porn at work, says Britain #39;s The Sun newspaper here.

UK  #39;Ministry of Porn #39; crackdown


In NEW YORK, US stocks advanced on Wednesday as record crude oil prices above \$52 a barrel boosted energy stocks like Exxon Mobil Corp.

US stocks advance on oil jump


AFP - The United States said it was taking  quot;very seriously quot; reports that the Laotian military massacred ethnic Hmong children, urging Vientiane to launch a probe on the issue.

US asks Laos to probe alleged massacre of Hmong children (AFP)


Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge said yesterday that the role of overseeing computer security and the Internet should have a higher profile at the agency, in the face of increasing concern

Cyber-Security to Get Higher-Profile Leader


AP - The main oxygen generator for the international space station has failed, and the two astronauts on board will tap into an attached cargo ship's air supply this weekend, NASA said Thursday.

Oxygen Generator Fails on Space Station (AP)


A breakthrough in the way scientists make crystals could lead to a replacement for silicon in electronic devices.

Door open for silicon replacement


Hurricane Ivan pummels the US Gulf Coast, causing at least 12 deaths and widespread damage.

Hurricane Ivan pounds US mainland


MOSCOW -- When a hostage-taking at a school in southern Russia erupted in explosions last month, viewers who rushed to turn on state-run Channel 1 were treated to a film, ''Lady with a Parrot. quot; They wouldn't have fared much better on Channel 2, which stuck to a travelogue.

Censorship increasingly hits Russia's media


Reuters - Australia declared their second innings on 329 for five, setting India 543 to win, on the fourth morning of the third test on Friday.

Australia set India 543 to win third test (Reuters)


In this, the Summer of Vince Carter #39;s Discontent, Raptors GM Rob Babcock finds himself in a difficult, but not unique position, dealing with a recalcitrant star who wants nothing less than a change of venue to kick-start a career that #39;s gone dormant and a

It #39;s the Me Generation


Cromwell, CT (Sports Network) - Woody Austin birdied the first playoff hole Sunday to defeat Tim Herron and win the Buick Championship.

Austin ends drought, earns first win since  #39;95


Prospects for the global economy next year are growing dimmer as oil prices hurt consumption and the rise in the U.S. trade deficit depresses the dollar.

Global Forecasts for 2005 Growth Are Reduced


Auto parts maker Delphi Corp. on Tuesday warned of a greater-than-expected third-quarter loss because of higher commodity prices and charges from cost-cutting measures and restructuring.

Delphi Deepens Third-Quarter Loss View


Israeli forces thrust into a town in north Gaza and kill a Hamas militant, as a Palestinian schoolgirl dies of her wounds.

Israel extends offensive in Gaza


Ross Lavery scored a try two minutes from the end as Oxford University defeated Cambridge 18-11 at Twickenham on Tuesday in another tight finish to the annual University rugby match.

Late try gives Oxford win


Admitting mainly Muslim Turkey into the European Union would mark nothing short of a cultural, economic and political revolution for Europe, analysts say.

EU braces for revolution if Turkey joins club


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Bankrupt US Airways Group Inc.  <A HREF=

Bankrupt U.S. Airways Posts Wider Loss


RENTON, Wash. United Online of Woodland Hills, California, is buying Renton-based Classmates-dot-com for 100 (m) million dollars in cash.

Renton online business sold for \$100 million


AP - Ninth-seeded Elena Bovina beat Jelena Kostanic 6-4, 6-2 Monday to reach the Generali Ladies Open's second round.

Bovina Advances at Generali Ladies Open (AP)


AFP - A tiny French village in Brittany -- the self proclaimed capital of twin-dom -- has played host to an international gathering of thousands of identical twins, triplets and quadruplets.

Twins of the world unite in France (AFP)


Barcelo Crestline Corp., a privately held McLean hotel company, said yesterday it plans to acquire a Missouri-based firm that is one of the country #39;s largest independent owners and operators of hotels.

Barcelo Crestline to Acquire Missouri-Based Hotel Group


Simon Robinson of 451 believes that the market for storage virtualization technologies will undergo a  quot;significant realignment quot; over the next 18 months.

Symantec-Veritas Tie-Up Targets Microsoft


KABUL (Reuters) - Millions of Afghans prepared for a  historic poll on Saturday, which will give the mountainous  Islamic nation on the ancient Silk Road its first elected  president and perhaps end over a quarter century of war.

Afghans Set for Historic Vote Under Militant Threat


WM Wrigley Jr. Co., which makes chewing gum and other confectionery products, on Tuesday reported third-quarter profit rose 11 percent on strong volume growth in Canada, Russia, Britain and China.

WM Wrigley Posts Higher 3Q Profit


One of the primary goals of modern society is to enhance a worldwide commitment to democracy. With so many national differences concerning preferred electoral processes, it helps to have a general definition of a democratic government.

Election monitors work to build nations #39; trust


French officials were prepared to provide as many as 15,000 troops for an invasion before relations soured with the Bush administration, according to a new book published in France this week.

France Was Ready to Send Troops to Iraq, Book Says


The Energy Department is reviewing requests for oil loans from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve following the recent hurricanes, the government said today.

Bush Said to Be Ready to Open Oil Reserve Spigot


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The blue-chip Dow average declined  slightly, while the Nasdaq and the S P 500 were little changed  on Tuesday as investors waited for an expected quarter-point  hike in U.S. interest rates and results from technology  bellwether Cisco Systems Inc. <A HREF=

Dow Slips, Nasdaq, S P 500 Flat


The speedy sophomore tailback Reggie Bush spearheaded U.S.C.'s victory over unranked Virginia Tech, catching three touchdown passes.

U.S.C. Finds Its Footing, and a Star, Just in Time


Steelcase Inc., the world #39;s top office furniture maker, said Thursday that second-quarter earnings dropped year-over-year on the sale of the company #39;s Attwood operations, but soundly beat Wall Street expectations due to higher sales and lower operating

Steelcase Posts Drop in 2Q Profit


The Associated Press By Rachel Konrad

News: Computer crash linked to excessive heat deepens concerns about electronic voting


Khartoum - A top official in Sudan #39;s war-torn Darfur region accused rebels of attacking villages and raping women in what he said was a new violation of a fragile ceasefire, a newspaper reported on Sunday.

Sudanese governor accuses rebels of rape


The NFL injury epidemic didn't pause this weekend, with Rich Gannon breaking a vertebra in his neck that will sideline him for eight weeks, and Rex Grossman and Charlie Garner out for the season.

The out pattern persists


Sixteen shoppers were injured on Wednesday at the Sweden-based furniture store opening in Jeddah. Medics revived some 20 customers.

Three killed in Saudi rush for IKEA vouchers


Reuters - DuPont Co.  posted a\third-quarter profit, reversing a year-ago loss, as higher\chemical prices offset surging energy costs, the second-largest\U.S. chemicals maker said on Tuesday.

Chemical Prices Help DuPont Reverse Loss (Reuters)


Slowing sales and income plus a warning about future profitability at Deluxe shows just how thin the line between deep value and permanent decline can be.

Delightful Discount or Devilish Decline?


A  #39;music thief #39; (apparently) writes  quot;According to Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft:  quot;The most common format of music on an iPod is  #39;stolen #39;.

Ballmer Says iPod users are Thieves


AP - Minnesota Vikings center Matt Birk is expected to start Sunday against the Detroit Lions despite pain in his abdomen.

Vikings' Birk Expected to Play Vs. Lions (AP)


SAP America and ADP are partnering to add HR and payroll services to SAP's Business One software for small companies.

SAP hopes partnership helps ring up sales


As millions buy increasingly powerful cell phones, many companies are racing to develop video games to take advantage of the newfound portability.

Multiplayer Games Coming to Cell Phones


LONDON (Reuters) - British advertising company WPP  said on  Sunday it won an auction for U.S. rival Grey Global, with what  sources familiar with the matter said was a cash-and-stock deal  worth about \$1.34 billion.

UK Ad Firm WPP Wins Bid for U.S. Rival


ZAGREB (Reuters) - Croatia's pro-Western President Stjepan  Mesic narrowly failed to win re-election on Sunday, paving the  way for a second round run-off against the candidate of the  ruling conservative government.

Croatia Presidential Race Goes Into Second Round


VIENNA, Sept. 21. - Shrugging off a 35-nation ultimatum, Iran today revealed that it had started converting tons of raw uranium as part of technology that could be used to make nuclear arms.

Iran defies N-agency


Telecom Italia will begin testing the Microsoft IPTV platform. The Microsoft TV IPTV platform enables broadband network operators to deliver high-quality video content and services using existing and next-generation networks.

Telecom Italia Trials IPTV Services With Microsoft


Reuters - A huge explosion rocked the southern\Afghanistan city of Kandahar on Wednesday and at least three\Afghan soldiers were wounded, the city's police chief said.

Blast in Kandahar Wounds at Least Three Afghans (Reuters)


AP - Braves shortstop Rafael Furcal was arrested early Friday on charges of driving under the influence, speeding and reckless driving, police said.

Braves Shortstop Furcal Arrested for DUI (AP)


ALEXANDRIA, Va. - A bankruptcy judge granted US Airways authority yesterday to immediately cut the pay of its union workers by 21 percent through mid-February, saying the airline #39;s situation is so dire that urgent action must be taken.

Judge lets US Airways cut workers #39; pay by 21


HONG KONG As the legislative election campaign entered its final week Monday, a series of sex and financial controversies involving democracy advocates was making it look less and less likely that Democrats could win a majority.

Rumor mill takes toll on Hong Kong Democrats


The Coca-Cola organisation yesterday blamed poor sales in the US and Europe, bad weather, new recycling laws and a lukewarm welcome for a new  quot;mid-calorie quot; Coke as it issued a profit warning.

Coca-Cola earnings dip 24 as sales lose fizz


NASA unveils its newest supercomputer today during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the agency #39;s Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif.

NASA Unveils its Newest Most Powerful Supercomputer


Reuters - The NFL handed down fines to 15\players involved in a scuffle between the Minnesota Vikings and\Chicago Bears on Sept. 26.

Moss Among Nine Vikings Fined for Bears Altercation (Reuters)


The last day Christina DiPasquale saw her best friend, he gave her Gabriel Garcia Marquez's autobiography,

Family, Friends Mourn a Soldier and a Poet


A group of small telephone companies said Thursday it #39;s worried that state regulators next week will allow telecommunications giant SBC Communications Inc.

Small telephone companies worry about paying more to use SBC <b>...</b>


(CBS 5 News)--The federal government has given the go-ahead for commercial pilots to carry stun-guns. Scottsdale based Taser International will soon be arming people in the cockpit!

Taser Guns Allowed Aboard Korean Air Jets


Jason Kidd is credited with an assist on Richard Jefferson's jumper that gave the Nets an 88-86 victory over the Raptors on Monday.

Kidd Returns in Win


(Hartford, Connecticut-Dow Jones/AP) Aug. 20, 2004 - Health-insurance giant Aetna says it #39;s agreed to buy Strategic Resource Company of Columbia for \$250 million.

Insurance giant Aetna to buy Columbia company for \$250 million


Wired  amp; Wireless continues its reign at the top spot among IT priorities due to widespread IP telephony and wireless deployment.

AT amp;T posts \$7.1 billion loss


com. Wally Backman, whom New York general manager Omar Minaya was scheduled to interview Thursday in St. Louis, withdrew his name from consideration for the Mets #39; vacant managerial position.

Backman no longer interested in job


More than three years after PG amp;E Corp. stopped paying dividends during California #39;s electricity crisis, company executives said Friday that they plan to give stockholders quarterly payments of 30 cents per share next spring.

PG amp;E ready to pay


Tiger Woods has taken share of the first-round lead of the Target World Challenge in California with Colin Montgomerie and Jim Furyk.

Woods on Target in California


Earnings are up, but sagging revenues are more annoying than static.

Future's Cloudy for Clear Channel


THE Standard  amp; Poor #39;s 500 Index rose as a government report showed factory orders for items such as computers and electronics climbed last month, suggesting strength in manufacturing.

S amp;P 500 rises on news of more factory orders


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. Treasury prices edged lower on  Friday as oil prices retreated from record highs, but trading  was thin as a dearth of data prompted many investors to take  off for an early weekend.

Treasuries Edge Down as Oil Retreat


For the first time in their history, the Houston Texans are 0-2, and they have turnovers to blame.  quot;I #39;ve been around this business long enough to know what

Texans Troubled by Turnovers


Canadian Press - CAIRO, Egypt (AP) - An audiotape purportedly from key terror suspect Abu Musab al-Zarqawi boasts that Islamic holy warriors have humiliated the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq.

Purported al-Zarqawi tape boasts of humiliating U.S.-led forces in Iraq (Canadian Press)


AFP - Three generations of a family of Indian origin were abducted and murdered in an elaborate plot to turn a successful import-export company into a drugs front, a court in London was told.

Indian family slain in bid to create drugs front, court told (AFP)


NEW YORK - Higher oil prices and lowered outlooks from companies including Colgate-Palmolive Co., Unilever PLC and the New York Times Co. sent stocks sliding Monday, although tech shares rallied on strong performance in the semiconductor sector...

Stocks Mixed on Oil Prices, Profit Outlook


Todays semi-finals of the Thailand Open will feature two dream matches: Andy Roddick versus Marat Safin and the long-time awaited clash between Roger Federer and Paradorn Srichaphan.

THAILAND OPEN: Titans to clash


This season #39;s blockbuster video games give players the opportunity to hijack cars, mow down the walking undead with heavy artillery, shoot police officers and ogle topless women.

Video games turn sharply to violence


Titans quarterback Steve McNair will undergo surgery to strengthen his bruised sternum and will miss the final three games of the year.

McNair's Season Over


ISLAMABAD, Nov 10: Law-enforcement agencies of the country in their war on terror have busted 20 gangs of terrorists and arrested 200 terrorists who were operating countrywide, said Federal Interior Minister Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao.

20 terrorist gangs busted: Sherpao


Employers take heed: Baby boomers might have been content to put work above all else, but that's not necessarily true of Generations X and Y.

For younger workers, family matters


While New England #39;s 20-game win streak will be forever etched in history, the prospect of the Patriots adding to their record run is a subplot in Sunday #39;s game with the New York Jets.

Clash of unbeatens


The trend of merging network and security technologies continued today as 3Com (Quote, Chart) bought TippingPoint Technologies (Quote, Chart) for approximately \$430 million, the companies said.

Networking, Security Integration Reaches  #39;TippingPoint #39;


Connecticut placed assistant men #39;s basketball coach Clyde Vaughan on paid administrative leave Thursday after his arrest in a prostitution sting.

UConn assistant coach placed on administrative leave


Reuters - EU fisheries ministers agreed quotas\on Tuesday for new member states to catch deepwater fish,\exotic but threatened species that are fast becoming an\alternative to mainstays like cod and hake, officials said.

EU Allows More Catches of Exotic Deep-Sea Fish (Reuters)


AP - Players and fans exchanged punches in the stands as an NBA game turned so ugly a police investigation was necessary. Indiana's Ron Artest and Stephen Jackson charged into the stands and fought with fans in the final minute of their game against the Detroit Pistons on Friday night, and the brawl forced an early end to the Pacers' 97-82 win.

Pacers Battle Trash-Throwing Pistons Fans (AP)


Australia #39;s Computershare has agreed to buy EquiServe of the United States for US\$292 million (\$423 million), making it the largest US share registrar and driving its shares up by a third.

US buy spurs registrar #39;s share surge


Oracle Corp., the world #39;s second-largest software firm, beat the Street with its first-quarter results after Tuesday #39;s market close thanks to stronger sales of its database software.

Oracle beats the Street, reaffirms guidance


The talk around Gainesville this season hasn #39;t been bubble screens or other short passes. The concern around Gator Nation has been the lack of a killer instinct by the Gators.

UF Killer Instinct Missing


Manchester United is to ask the Takeover Panel to clarify the company #39;s position regarding a potential takeover approach by US tycoon Malcolm Glazer.

United to appeal to takeover body


KHARTOUMSudan has agreed to a joint withdrawal of government and rebel forces from Darfur and to boost the number of international ceasefire monitors in the province, British Prime Minister Tony Blair said yesterday.

Blair pushes Darfur accord


Upmarket clothing firm Austin Reed ARD.L has posted a first-half loss as it struggles to appeal to women over 40, who it says are rejecting its Country Casual brand for more youthful fashions.

Austin Reed gets dressing down


Microsoft (Quote, Chart) released a Community Technology Preview of the framework and software development kit for building custom visual designers based on the modeling technology in Visual Studio 2005.

Microsoft Previews Visual Studio Team System


Romanian soccer star Adrian Mutu as he arrives at the British Football Association in London, ahead of his disciplinary hearing, Thursday Nov. 4, 2004.

Drug Test Sidelines Mutu for Seven Months


CLEVELAND -- The Cleveland Indians declined to pick up Omar Vizquel #39;s \$5 million contract option for next season, making him eligible to become a free agent when the World Series ends.

Indians decline option on long-time shortstop Vizquel


BEDMINSTER, NJ, Aug. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- AT amp;T today announced that Best Buy will be among the first national retailers to offer AT amp;T #39;s residential Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone service, AT amp;T CallVantage

AT amp;T CallVantage Service To Be Available in More Than 600 Best Buy <b>...</b>


Reuters - Tokyo's Nikkei fell 0.19 percent by\midday on Wednesday, erasing initial gains and extending losses\into a ninth straight day as worry over higher oil prices and\domestic economic uncertainty hit exporters and tech stocks.

Tokyo Stocks Turn Lower on Oil Worries (Reuters)


An anonymous reader writes  quot;SCO has filed for another delay in the case against IBM. The article reports that  #39;According to filings in the case, SCO is looking to buy time until the court can hear its arguments compelling IBM to release more information.

SCO Files for Stay of Execution


CNN #39;s US operation has a new boss for the second time in just 14 months. This time it #39;s Jonathan Klein -- former CBS News suit and, more recently, founder and CEO of high-speed Internet news network and video streamer FeedRoom.

At CNN/US, Another Quick Change of Suits


NASA has released three new stunning color pictures taken by the Cassini spacecraft exploring the planet Saturn. The images show the giant planet, its golden rings and several moons.

Latest color pictures from Cassini look like artwork


Injured Buffalo Bills safety Lawyer Milloy ruled out any chance of returning to face the Patriots next month. That means Milloy, who broke his right forearm in a preseason game Aug. 28, will miss at least another three weeks, including the Oct. 3 game against the Patriots in Buffalo.  quot;Believe me, I would love to come back for that game, quot; ...

Milloy won't be ready for Patriots


CRICKET #39;S final frontier is a little closer for the all-conquering Australian cricket team after a convincing win in the first Test in India yesterday, but Shane Warne remains two frustrating wickets short of the world record.

Elusive record gives Warne the boot


Unions and government officials are meeting in South Africa on Friday in an attempt to thrash out a pay deal to avert a new wave of strikes next week.

Bid to avert new S Africa strikes


Juliana Sasaki didn #39;t bother checking out Sony Corp. #39;s digital music player in Tokyo before buying her green iPod mini. I knew Sony and other companies had MP3 players, but they can

Apple Deepens Sony #39;s Woes as Cute #39; iPod Takes Off in Japan


Latest versions of the Bagle worm have appeared in the internet, prompting anti-virus companies to warn customers about the threat and to push out software updates to spot the new worms.

New Bagle variants storm the internet


CAIRO (Reuters) - Palestinians and Israelis have agreed in  principle to proposals aiming to end their conflict, Egypt's  official news agency MENA said Tuesday.

Report: Palestinians, Israel Back Peace Plan


The head of Lazard LLC is asking partners to take a one-third pay cut as the investment bank readies for an initial public offering, according to a report published Friday.

Lazard asks pay cut before IPO-report


KNOWN to players and fans as Crazy Horse, Emlyn Hughes was one of the most talented footballers of the 1970s, and almost certainly the most enthusiastic.

Emlyn Hughes


Staff Sgt. Chris Fritz set out for a meeting with the mayor of Musayyib to discuss the needs of the city in a convoy of nine armored trucks equipped with .50-caliber machine guns and Mark 19 automatic grenade launchers. He was protected by three dozen Marines wearing full body armor and carrying assault rifles and assorted mortars and grenades.

In Iraq, Courtesy Call Takes Poise and Patience


Wholesale inflation rose last month at the fastest pace in more than 14 years, largely because of steep jumps in energy and food costs, the government reported yesterday, raising concerns that businesses may be under growing pressure to raise consumer prices.

Wholesale Inflation Rises Sharply


Red Hat is warning users that an email purporting to be a security update may contain malicious code. The email - which began appearing last Friday - uses a securityredhat.

Red Hat hit by security-update email scam


Ten-man Paris St Germain clinched their seventh consecutive victory over arch-rivals Olympique Marseille with a 2-1 triumph in Ligue 1 on Sunday thanks to a second-half winner by substitute Edouard Cisse.

Ten-man PSG clinch seventh straight win over Marseille


GREENSBORO, North Carolina (Reuters) - Brent Geiberger  followed his father Al in winning the \$4.8 million Greensboro  Classic Sunday, the first time ever that father and son have  won the same PGA Tour event.

Brent Geiberger Emulates Father Al for PGA Tour First


The head of InterActiveCorp talks about the confusion that the company's setup provokes and whether he would consider becoming the chief executive at Disney.

So, That's the Point of This Company


AP - Randy Winn hit a two-run homer in the 12th inning to lead the Seattle Mariners to a 5-3 victory Saturday night, completing a doubleheader sweep of the Kansas City Royals.

Mariners Sweep Royals in Doubleheader (AP)


SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Delta Air Lines shares rose sharply Wednesday ahead of a Thursday meeting at which the carrier is expected to offer its pilots a stake in the struggling company.

Delta shares jump on pilot equity talk


Iraq and terrorism dominated a hard-hitting and sometimes personal exchange between the vice presidential nominees on Tuesday.

Cheney and Edwards Go Toe to Toe in Debate


AP - Lou Henson is in a wheelchair and has no mobility in his right leg, but the New Mexico State men's basketball coach is optimistic he'll be back on the sidelines this season.

Lou Henson Hopes to Return to Coaching (AP)


A Prince George's County appeals board has voted to overturn a ban on pedestrians on the streets and sidewalks around FedEx Field.

Pedestrian Ban Reversed


LONDON (Reuters) - The dollar eased toward last week's  record low against the euro on Thursday after capital inflows  data added to worries the United States may struggle to fund  its current account deficit.

Dollar Eases Toward Record Low Vs. Euro


San Francisco--At the closing session of the Web 2.0 Conference, Yahoo cofounder and Chief Yahoo Jerry Yang assessed the famous Web portal #39;s first decade.

Yahoo #39;s Yang Looks Back on  #39;Amazing Ride #39;


Software giant allows users more time to prepare for XP's security fix.

Microsoft Delays SP2 Delivery--Again


AP - The Bush administration on Friday rejected a request from 30 members of Congress that it bring a World Trade Organization case against China charging the Asian nation with manipulating its currency to gain unfair trade advantages against the United States.

White House Rejects Trade Case Vs. China (AP)


CRAWFORD, Texas - President Bush is launching a focus on Western battlegrounds with no sign that the biting rhetoric he has aimed at Democratic challenger John Kerry in recent days is as aggressive as it's going to get.    Bush spent one day off the campaign trail, relaxing on Sunday at his central Texas ranch and engaging in informal preparations for the final debate before Election Day - Wednesday in Tempe, Ariz...

Bush Rhetoric Becoming More Aggressive


Reuters - Roger Clemens is still heading to the\Hall of Fame, even though his Houston Astros team will not be\going to the World Series following a 5-2 defeat by the St\Louis Cardinals Thursday.

'Rocket' Fizzles Out as Astros Fall to Cardinals (Reuters)


Spanish giants Real Madrid on Monday played down the seriousness of midfielder David Beckham #39;s rib injury and said that the England skipper could play this weekend.

Real play down Beckham injury


Reuters - Oilfield services company Halliburton\Co.  on Monday said its subsidiaries Kellogg Brown  \Root and DII Industries have emerged from the year-long\bankruptcy proceedings it instigated to facilitate a  #36;4.2\billion asbestos settlement.

Two Halliburton Units Exit Bankruptcy (Reuters)


The Environment Ministry unveiled a carbon tax Friday to discourage use of fossil fuels and promote the use of energy-saving appliances so Japan can meet its obligations under the Kyoto Protocol.

Ministry proposes 2,400 yen per ton carbon tax plan


AP - Alabama State postponed Saturday's game with Arkansas-Pine Bluff because of power outages at the stadium due to Hurricane Ivan.

Alabama State, Pine Bluff Game Postponed (AP)


Reuters - The old methods of U.S.\discrimination at the polls have been replaced by

Discrimination at U.S. Polls Now 'Subtler, More Creative' (Reuters)


Japan will take action if necessary #39; #39; to stem the yen #39;s gains against the dollar and is keeping a close watch on currency markets, Japan #39;s Finance Minister Sadakazu Tanigaki said.

Japan Will Act on Yen Gains If Necessary #39;, Tanigaki Says


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks slid on Thursday, ending  four days of gains as oil prices continued their march higher,  but Google Inc. <A HREF=

Stocks Dip as Oil Soars; Google Shines


United Rentals' stock sinks sharply as the SEC investigates the company.

A Mirage or a Great Speculation?


Kevin Brown made a compelling case for a postseason start on Saturday, allowing one hit and an unearned run over five innings.

Brown States His Case, but Yanks Lose Again


The Food and Drug Administration launched an effort this week to use radio frequency identification technology to track the nation #39;s drug supply from manufacturer to pharmacy to reduce counterfeiting.

FDA to e-track popular drugs


MADRID (AFP) - Spanish national team coach Luis Aragones faces a formal investigation after Spain #39;s Football Federation decided to open disciplinary proceedings over racist comments about Thierry Henry of France and Arsenal.

Spanish coach facing action in race row


THE French media group Vivendi Universal today said that a surging net loss so far this year would give way to better-than-expected adjusted net income for 2004 as a whole.

Vivendi posts big losses


ATHENS -- Marion Jones returned to the Olympic track last night to do what she does best -- sprint.

Semi heat breeze for Jones, US


Millions of homeowners are underinsured, fed largely by a shift in the way property insurance has been sold in recent years.

Homeowners Come Up Short on Insurance


The operation to end the school hostage crisis in Russia is over but more than 200 people have died after troops stormed the building.

Report: More than 200 dead after troops storm school


Google has developed Google SMS, a beta version of a service that is to enable users of mobile phones and other handheld devices to use its online search engine.

Google SMS launched


NARATHIWAT, Thailand - A powerful bomb hidden in a motorcycle killed one person and wounded 30 in Thailands mainly Muslim south on Thursday, a day ahead of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatras visit to the restive region.

Thai motorcycle bomb kills 1, wounds 30


AP - All-Pro left tackle Jonathan Ogden signed a new seven-year contract Thursday with the Baltimore Ravens.

Ogden Signs 7-Year Contract With Ravens (AP)


BAGHDAD, Iraq - A string of bombs killed 35 children and wounded scores of others as U.S. troops handed out candy Thursday at a government-sponsored celebration to inaugurate a sewage plant...

Iraq Bombings Kill 35 Youths, Hurt Scores


Dress Barn turns in good, not great, results and still blames the weather.

Weather's Fine at Dress Barn


The Padres were dealt a blow Tuesday when it was discovered that Khalil Greene will be out of the lineup for at least a week. Their rookie shortstop sensation took a

Notes: Greene out a week


S. African Government Condemns Accusations That It Is Being Used As Springboard for Haiti #39;s Aristide. A boy passes a car that says  quot;Aristide King quot; in the pro-Aristide slum of Bel-Air in Port-au-Prince, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2004.

S. Africa Condemns Claims About Aristide


USATODAY.com - Monday's announcement that Chief Justice William Rehnquist is being treated for thyroid cancer was a reminder of one man's mortality - and of how a single vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court could change the dynamics of the divided panel.

One vacancy could reshape court (USATODAY.com)


The NFL champion New England Patriots escape with a season-opening victory, keeping their winning streak alive and again frustrating Peyton Manning.

Pats kick off season with win


Six conference champions and two at-large teams will make up the participants in the four BCS bowl games, guaranteeing their schools huge paydays.

ABCs of the BCS


Stocks inched higher in quiet trading Wednesday as a pair of government reports offered conflicting signals about the economy and oil prices declined.

Stocks Up on Conflicting Economic Reports


Despite solid Q1 news, Microsoft #39;s revenue forecast for the current quarter fell below estimates. For the current fiscal second quarter, which ends in December, Microsoft forecast revenue

Microsoft Earnings Beat Estimates


AP - Denver Broncos defensive end Luther Elliss is expected to miss up to two weeks because of a torn pectoral muscle. Elliss missed the first nine weeks of last season with a similar injury.

Elliss, Anderson Injuries Raise Concern (AP)


Today, 27 million people are enslaved, more than at the height of the transatlantic slave trade.

Slavery is not dead, just less recognizable.


Reuters - The Arizona Cardinals\Tuesday acquired running back Troy Hambrick and defensive end\Peppi Zellner from the Oakland Raiders for an undisclosed 2005\draft pick.

Arizona Gets RB Hambrick and DE Zellner from Raiders (Reuters)


NewsFactor - Gateway has introduced the first products in a new line of desktop PCs\for sale at major retailers throughout North America, following through\on plans to broaden the company's reach beyond direct-sales channels.

Gateway Launches PCs for Retailers (NewsFactor)


Cox Enterprises Inc. on Tuesday said it will purchase Cox Communications Inc.s minority public stake for \$8.3 billion, in a move to privatize the publicly traded cable company and insulate it from the short term demands of Wall Street.

Cox Enterprises to buy Cox public stake


Reuters - Amazon.com Inc.'s  days as a\hot-shot dot-com may be behind it as the Internet retailer's\slowing growth makes its business suspiciously similar to that\of its brick-and-mortar peers.

Amazon.com May Be Losing Its Dot-Com Glitz (Reuters)


The military command in charge of training Iraqi forces has fewer than half of its permanent headquarters personnel in place.

Effort to Train New Iraqi Army Is Facing Delays


AP - The fastest-swiveling space science observatory ever built rocketed into orbit Saturday to scan the universe for violent celestial explosions that astronomers believe represent the birth screams of black holes.

NASA Launches Black Hole Hunter (AP)


PC World - Belkin's Pre-N wireless networking line also dramatically improves\  range--even for 802.11b and 802.11g gear.

New Wi-Fi Nearly Doubles Speed (PC World)


AP - Reaction to the suspensions handed down by NBA commissioner David Stern on Sunday, two days after a brawl between the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons:

NBA Brawl Quote Box (AP)


COPENHAGEN -- Rising sea levels, disappearing glaciers in the Alps, and more deadly heat waves are coming for Europeans because of global warming, Europe's environmental agency warned yesterday. The European Environment Agency said much more needs to be done -- and fast. Climate change  quot;will considerably affect our societies and environments for decades and centuries to come, quot; its 107-page report ...

Concerns detailed on climate change


Ubisoft today announced that Prince of Persia: Warrior Within has been shipped to stores nationwide for the Playstation 2, Xbox, GameCube, and PC.

Prince of Persia: Warri


The countrys rich natural resources and skilled workforce, coupled with improved business climate, could turn the Philippines into an investment haven in Asia, but, so far, the trouble-plagued country has failed to communicate these qualities

World Bank says RP suffers from poor image among foreign investors


Continuing its crackdown on software pirates, German police arrested a 46-year-old lawyer, two brothers, and a teenager on Thursday for allegedly selling illegal software, movies, games, and music through a commercial online service, according to the German Federation Against Copyright Theft (GVU).

Police nab German lawyer in piracy raid


quot;Resuming uranium enrichment is not in our agenda. We are still committed to the suspension, quot; Foreign Ministry spokesman Hamid Reza.

Iran has no immediate uranium enrichment plans


Iran today received the qualified backing of the UN #39;s nuclear watchdog just 10 days short of a deadline to address US and European concerns over its programmes.

UN agency gives Iran a reprieve


Reuters - The United States modified its\call for U.N. sanctions against Sudan on Tuesday but still kept\up the threat of punitive measures if Khartoum did not stop\atrocities in its Darfur region.

U.S. Revises UN Draft on Sudan in Quest of Votes (Reuters)


GONAIVES, Haiti : Residents were clearing away tonnes of mud in the northern Haitian city of Gonaives, after floods killed close to 1,200 people on the Caribbean island and left most others dependent on emergency aid.

Residents clear tonnes of mud as floodwaters recede in northern <b>...</b>


Emlyn Hughes #39; passion for football and for life will be the abiding memory of those who knew him. The former England and Liverpool captain Hughes, who died today aged 57, led the Anfield side to two European

Legends remember  #39;bundle of joy #39;


BAGHDAD, Iraq - A suicide attacker detonated an explosives-packed vehicle near a row of police cars blocking off a bridge in central Baghdad, killing at least five people and wounding 20, officials said. The attack came hours after U.S...

Suicide Bomber Targets Baghdad Police


The top and bottom appears set, but theresa whole lot of middle ground left to cover. The New England Patriots hosted Buffalo last night and Philadelphia and Dallas round

Patriots, Steelers rule AFC


KATHMANDU: The Maoist blockade, which entered its sixth day on Monday, has effectively closed all roads linking the hill-ringed capital city of Kathmandu with the rest of Nepal.

All roads to Nepal #39;s capital end here


AFP - South Korea's top nuclear negotiator left for Japan to discuss ways to break a deadlock in six-nation talks on North Korea's nuclear weapons programs, officials said.

South Korea's chief nuclear negotiator leaves for Japan (AFP)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. shares were seen opening slightly  weaker on Wednesday as oil prices held near the \$47 a barrel  level, while investors cooled to the Federal Reserve's   assessment of the economy.

US Stocks Set for Lower Open, Oil Weighs


JERUSALEM - A senior Palestinian official called reports of a Mideast peace agreement premature, but said Israelis and Palestinians have agreed on the logistics of the upcoming elections to replace Yasser Arafat.

No Mideast peace deal yet: Palestinian official


The electoral college has produced controversial decisions six times in the history of the United States.      Such election results produce calls for changes to     the Constitution.  Amending the Constitution is     a difficult and complicated process. Only 27 Amendments have passed in over     200 years.     Here are some changes that can be made to the system without amending the Constitution.

Electoral College Change Without Amendments


The British Library is putting high-resolution copies of Shakespeare's plays on the internet.

Shakespearean text lives online


WASHINGTON - A day after Fannie Mae agreed to regulators #39; demands to boost its capital cushion against risk and revamp its accounting, officials said Tuesday that the possibility of the beleaguered mortgage giant having to restate its earnings had been

Fannie Mae might have to restate earnings


BESLAN, Russia - At least seven people were killed and 310 others wounded Friday, reports said, after commandos stormed a school in southern Russia where hundreds had been held hostage for three days by rebels strapped with explosives.    Troops killed five of the hostage-takers but 13 others escaped, the ITAR-Tass news agency said...

Russian Forces Storm School; 7 Killed


Red Hat Inc. on Saturday warned users of an e-mail scam designed to plant malicious code on users #39; systems. The malicious e-mail poses as a security update from the vendor, a technique

E-Mail Scam Dupes Linux Users


Vijay Singh wins the PGA Tour player of the year award Monday for the first time, ending Tiger Woods' five-year hold on the honor with a season that left no debate about who was No. 1 in golf.

Singh Unseats Woods


MOSCOW Directors at Gazprom, the world #39;s biggest natural gas company, are united and ready to vote on a proposed bid for Yukos #39;s main production unit, Yuganskneftegaz, officials at the gas company said on Thursday, as the company seeks to create an oil

Gazprom  #39;united #39; on Yukos bid, but doubt is reported


Humax offers solid box with built-in DVD recorder and 80 hours of storage.

First Look: Affordable TiVo With DVD Burning


Under a cross-licensing agreement with Intel, Nvidia will be able to develop its nForce platform for Pentium chips. The agreement will give the graphics chip maker a boost in its race to keep

Nvidia Shores Up Development Gap with Intel Pact


AP - The Detroit Tigers optioned reliever Roberto Novoa to Double-A Erie and called up relief pitcher Craig Dingman from Triple-A Toledo.

Tigers Call Up Dingman, Option Novoa (AP)


Tesco demonstrated its position as the country #39;s biggest supermarket chain yesterday with a 24 rise in interim profits and its fastest sales growth in almost 10 years.

Tesco reigns supreme as it announces 24 rise in profits


AP - Lynne Cheney accused Sen. John Kerry of pulling a

Lynne Cheney Upset With Kerry Over Remark (AP)


Shares in DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc., the producer of the Shrek movies, rose as much as 41 percent as investors bet the company can use \$700 million of proceeds from its initial stock sale to challenge Pixar Animation Studios.

DreamWorks Animation Shares Rise as Much as 41 (Update2)


AP - Australia's Rod Pampling took a four-stroke lead in the centennial Australian Open on Friday, shooting his second straight 4-under 67.

Pampling Leads Australian Open (AP)


(New York, NY) Dec. 2, 2004 - Earl G. Graves, Sr., Publisher and Chairman of BLACK ENTERPRISE magazine, issued the following statement on the firing of Tyrone Willingham from the position of head football coach by Notre Dame University:

Statement On Notre Dame Universitys Firing Of Football Coach <b>...</b>


Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. (ETH.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , a furniture maker and retailer, on Tuesday said quarterly earnings were little changed on lackluster consumer confidence

Ethan Allen Posts Little-Changed Earnings


Malicious hackers are seeding Internet news groups that traffic in pornography with JPEG images that take advantage of a recently disclosed security hole in Microsoft #39;s software, according to warnings from antivirus software companies and Internet

Hackers Target Microsoft JPEG Hole


AFP - Sick, injured and reeling from a humiliating loss, the United States basketball team struggled past Greece 77-71 in an Olympic preliminary-round game that signaled more difficulties to come.

US NBA stars pushed to the brink before edging Greece (AFP)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Lockheed Martin Corp. <A HREF=

Jet Demand, IT Propel Lockheed Profit Up


MANCHESTER United today broke off talks with US sports tycoon Malcolm Glazer about his potential takeover bid. The decision was hailed as  quot;fantastic quot; by supporters, who have waged a fierce campaign against him.

Reds snub Glazer


Microsoft has developed a convenient solution for replacing all those passwords with something you don #39;t have to worry about forgetting: your fingerprint.

Tired of Passwords? Replace Them With Your Fingerprint


Seattle -- With his team hanging onto a one-point lead at the half, Cal coach Jeff Tedford said he was fairly restrained. He #39;d already let the Bears have it before the game.

A loaf, then a laugh Cal dawdles in 1st half, still rips Huskies


Cardinals defensive tackle Kenny King will miss the season after undergoing surgery to repair tendons in his wrist on Wednesday.

Cardinals Lose King


The UK #39;s number one supermarket chain, Tesco, has unveiled a new online digital music download store. The store, which will be operated by Cable  amp; Wireless, will remain under the Tesco.

UK supermarket becomes iTunes rival


INDIANAPOLIS (Reuters) - The U.S. team continued to  dominate the world short course championships Friday, claiming  five gold medals without the help of Michael Phelps after he  was forced out of the meeting with an injured back.

U.S. Continue to Dominate Without Injured Phelps


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Ryder System Inc. <A HREF=

Ryder Net Profit Up 45 Percent


Replace MP3 players and PDAs with AIBO. With the advanced new AIBO MIND 2software, AIBO gains the ability to record moving pictures through wirelessconnectivity, recognise patterns, voices and faces, obey

BERLIN, Germany, October 6 (PRNewswire)


Rising energy costs drove up US consumer prices a larger-than-expected 0.6 percent in October, while industrial output and housing starts rebounded strongly from the prior month.

Economy Expands Despite Rising Oil Prices


AP - With their punter kicking field goals and their defense kicking Tim Rattay all over the field, the Carolina Panthers doubled their win total.

Panthers Defeat 49ers 37-27 (AP)


More than 10,000 US forces are poised to attack and occupy the rebel operations base of Fallujah.

US heading into major urban assault in Iraq


AP - After playing in hail, fog and chill, top-ranked Southern California finishes its season in familiar comfort. The Trojans (9-0, 6-0 Pacific-10) have two games at home  #151; against Arizona on Saturday and Notre Dame on Nov. 27  #151; before their rivalry game at UCLA.

Trojans Return to Kinder Climate (AP)


CARACAS -- Venezuela's government asked the Supreme Court yesterday to overturn the acquittals of the military ringleaders of a 2002 coup against President Hugo Chavez to clear the way for fresh prosecutions.

Venezuela appeals coup acquittals


Fraud on UK credit cards has fallen - but identity fraud is on the up, a survey from analysts Datamonitor finds.

Card fraud prevention 'pays off'


One final horn-honking, flag-waving frenzy for the fans. One last, glorious opportunity for 40 of the world #39;s best players to pull on their nation #39;s colours and leave them wanting more in what should be a tremendous World Cup final.

First the game, then ...


NEW YORK - A drop in oil prices and reassuring words from the Federal Reserve sent stocks higher Monday, raising hopes that Wall Street would be able to extend its recent rally.    Investors were cheered by a dip in oil prices, which backed off the \$50 per barrel mark at Friday's close of trading...

Stocks Rise on Drop in Oil, Fed Comments


NEW YORK -- Oil prices have moved to fresh record highs of almost \$47 a barrel on concerns about potential supply disruptions in Russia and Iraq.

Yukos, Iraq push oil higher


GUWAHATI, India (Reuters) - Indian troops prepared to flush  out guerrillas from thick jungles of Assam on Sunday after a  fresh wave of bombs ripped through streets and marketplaces  killing four people and wounding 40, officials said.

India Vows to Flush Out Northeast Rebels


Reuters - A replica of the Kon-Tiki balsa raft will\sail the Pacific in 2005 to study mounting environmental\threats to the oceans since Thor Heyerdahl made his daredevil\1947 voyage, organizers said on Monday.

Kon-Tiki Replica to Sail, Study Pacific in 2005 (Reuters)


Staff Sgt. Darren J. Cunningham, a 22-year Army veteran who was described by friends and family as gregarious and fun-loving, was buried yesterday under gray skies at Arlington National Cemetery.

'Boisterous' Soldier Buried at Arlington


Up to 400 Britons were being evacuated from Ivory Coast to Ghana under military escort last night as the Foreign Office strongly advised all UK nationals to leave the country.

Britons airlifted out of Ivory Coast


Reuters - Demand for oil will decline by 1\million barrels per day (bpd) in the second quarter of 2005,\the head of the OPEC producers' cartel said on Monday.

OPEC Head Sees Oil Demand Dropping (Reuters)


It sounds the most unlikely story since it was claimed that a London double-decker bus had been potted on the moon, but Real Madrid want Uncle Bobby to take over as their manager, according to The Sun.

Real chasing Sir Bobby?


AFP - Democratic White House hopeful John Kerry promised to help boost US job growth and take a harder line on alleged abuses by China as he touted his economic plan.

Kerry touts job-creation plans (AFP)


Pakistan #39;s prime minister called this week #39;s discussions about Kashmir with his Indian counterpart  quot;friendly and cordial.

Pakistani PM calls talks  #39;cordial #39;


AP - Washington state's top polluter isn't a pulp mill, a power plant or refinery. It's the newly awakened Mount St. Helens.

Mount St. Helens Is State's Top Polluter (AP)


(Sports Network) - The Dodgers will try to win their three-game series against arch-rival San Francisco and increase their narrow 1 1/2-contest lead in the standings today at SBC Park.

Los Angeles Dodgers Team Report - September 26


Qantas has decided that it will not appeal against a New Zealand High Court decision stopping it from forming an alliance with Air New Zealand.

Qantas rules out Air NZ alliance appeal


Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer told invited press at a London briefing that Microsoft would prevail over Apple, Sony and other competitors when it comes to winning the hearts and minds of home consumers looking to integrate computer technology into their

Ballmer:  #39;No way #39; Apple will win digital media war


ST. LOUIS -- Over time, Cal Eldred has learned to embrace the bullpen. The righthander came to the St. Louis Cardinals in the spring of 2003 looking to compete for a spot in the rotation. Before undergoing reconstructive elbow surgery, he had been a productive starter for the Brewers, and won 10 games for the White Sox in 2000.

Eldred not penned in


Paolo Di Canio inspired Lazios second-half comeback as they rescued a point in a 3-3 draw with Lecce at the Olympic Stadium. The draw may not have eased the pressure on Mimmo Caso, but it should certainly

Serie A Wrap: Udinese Win, Lazio Stage Comeback


Intel is taking over the team of 300 designers who work on Itanium chips for use in HP servers. An official announcement from the companies is expected Thursday, according to a person familiar with the plans.

Intel To Take Over HP #39;s Itanium Chip Team


A failed rocket attack on a US helicopter carrying President Hamid Karzai was carried out by a self-confessed Taliban commando, Afghanistan #39;s top law-enforcer said Saturday.

Taliban Suspected in Failed Karzai Attack


According to the World Economic Forums ranking, for the second straight year the most competitive economy is Finlands one. Finland hit the top for the quality of its public institutions and the high

Finland leads in economic competition for the second straight year


Only a few months after crying poverty, Finance Minister Ralph Goodale says last year #39;s surplus topped \$9.1 billion -- almost five times more than originally predicted.

Make that \$9.1 billion


Qualcomm, a maker of chips for cell phones, said Thursday that it plans to integrate Microsoft Windows media technology into many of its chips, a move that #39;s expected to be a boon for both wireless streaming services and for Microsoft, which has been

Qualcomm, Microsoft team on streaming media


All of the human embryonic stem cells available to federally funded scientists under President Bush's three-year-old research policy share a previously unrecognized trait that fosters rejection by the immune systems, diminishing their potential as medical treatments, new research indicates.

Approved Stem Cells' Potential Questioned


Iraqi kidnappers

Google 'saved' Australian hostage


The Anaheim Angels and Los Angeles Dodgers both beat rivals from Northern California to capture division titles, making this the first time the two Southern California rivals will be in the postseason playoffs in the same year.

Baseball: Dodgers and Angels have California dreaming


With its stock plunging, drug giant Merck has adopted a plan that could give top executives big bonuses if the company is taken over.

Reeling Merck Offers Officers a Bonus Deal


A judge dismissed a lawsuit against two officers of the Oracle Corporation that accused them of insider trading before the company announced an earnings shortfall in 2001.

Judge Dismisses Suit Against Oracle Officers


Aside from the few who speak out publicly, musicians typically sit out the debate over file sharing. Now, a new survey has found that most artists don't view unauthorized swapping as a threat to their livelihood.  <FONT face=

Musicians Sing Different Tune on File Sharing


OTTAWA - Two top Canadian ministers announced this week that they had resolved to cut global-warming emissions of cars and trucks sold in Canada by 25 percent by the end of the decade.

Canada insistent on goal to slice vehicle emissions


The number of new people signing up for jobless benefits plunged last week, partly reflecting a tapering off of filings related to Hurricane Charley.

Hurricane recovery sends jobless claims down


Weak chain-store sales, stumbling job growth and more record oil prices were too much for Wall Street #39;s bulls to bear last week.

As Oil Price Soars, Markets Chill


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Despite enduring his worst season  since turning professional nine years ago, Tiger Woods says he  is on track to overtake Jack Nicklaus's haul of 18 major  championship victories.

I'm Still Ahead of Nicklaus's Pace, Says Woods


TORONTO - Vince Carter wants out of Toronto, but the Raptors' new general manager says he isn't going anywhere.

Raptors' GM Expects Vince Carter to Stay


By Ed Edelson, HealthDay Reporter    HealthDayNews -- Giving steroids to reduce brain swelling can be deadly for patients with severe head injuries, according to the largest study ever done on the subject.    The research, which included more than 10,000 patients treated at 239 hospitals in 49 countries, found that 21 percent of those who were given steroids died within two weeks, compared to 18 percent of those given a placebo...

Steroids Harmful for Head Injury Patients


Here are some rantings from the world of professional golf. Sort of. Vijay Singh has won eight times on the PGA Tour in 2004. He has set the

Out of the rough


Reuters - Sprint Corp. is close to\an agreement to buy Nextel Communications Inc. for about  #36;35\billion in a mostly stock deal that would combine the No. 3 and

Sprint Near Deal to Buy Nextel -Sources (Reuters)


The Bank of England on Thursday left its benchmark interest rate unchanged, at 4.75 percent, as policy makers assessed whether borrowing costs, already the highest in the Group of Seven, are constraining consumer demand.

UK central bank leaves rates in place


NEW YORK - Third-quarter earnings are meeting Wall Street #39;s expectations, but the lack of company forecasts on future earnings - or disappointing outlooks in many cases - is starting to have investors worried.

Third quarter is fine, but what about fourth?


AFP - French-Belgian bank Dexia said  that it has decided to terminate its plans to form an alliance with Italian bank Sanpaolo IMI.

Dexia formally abandon's merger plans with Italy's Sanpaolo (AFP)


SILVERSTONE, England (Reuters) - Former champion Jacques  Villeneuve trumped Ralf Schumacher's return from injury with  Formula One's comeback of the year on Wednesday.

Jacques Is Back, a Day After Ralf


THE National Basketball Association suspended four players yesterday in the wake of one of the worst brawls in North American pro sports history.

Brawlers suspended


JAKARTA, INDONESIA - At least 16 people died after an earthquake and a succession of aftershocks shook Alor Island in eastern Indonesia on Friday.

Indonesian island hit by deadly quake


AP - Shares of Amazon.com Inc. dipped below a 52-week low in intraday trading Friday after the online retailer reported third quarter profits that tripled, but fell short of Wall Street estimates.

Amazon Stock Falls As Profit Misses Mark (AP)


quot;It #39;s the kind of thing we expected, but we thought we might never find a fossil that would justifiably show it, quot; said Mark Norell, who co-authored a paper that describes the new species.

New Dinosaur Discovered: T. Rex Cousin Had Feathers


Iraq takes centre-stage in the US election campaign as John Kerry and George W Bush trade insults.

Kerry and Bush square off on Iraq


US and Iraqi government forces have captured scores of suspected insurgents and seized an enormous stockpile of weapons and explosives during anti-insurgent operations in Iraq.

Anti-Insurgent Raids Net Large Seizure of Iraqi Rebels, Weapons


Norway #39;s best-known soccer coach, Egil  quot;Drillo quot; Olsen, will return to active duty when he takes over the head job at elite division club Fredrikstad next season.

Egil  quot;Drillo quot; Olsen returns to Norwegian soccer


ATLANTA -- New federal laws take effect Thursday that could dramatically shorten the time it takes for a check to clear the bank because the information will now be transmitted electronically.

New Law Could Sink Check Writers


The Democratic Republic of Congo #39;s Minister for Regional Cooperation says Rwandan soldiers have entered Congo and attacked three villages in eastern Congo.

Minister: Rwandan Soldiers Have Entered Congo


About the Google IPO\\For the past nine months the financial and Internet world has been watching Google in anticipation of what could be the largest Initial Public Offering of stock in history. If you are reading this column and have not been living on Mars for the past year, you ...

Thoughts on the Google IPO


An investigative judge questioned former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet for half an hour on Saturday to decide whether to indict him in one of hundreds

Chile #39;s Pinochet Questioned by Investigative Judge


Police arrest the president of Haiti's senate and two other supporters of former president Bertrand Aristide.

Senate chairman arrested in Haiti


It could take months for many businesses to test and deploy Microsoft #39;s most-secure operating system. By John Foley. Despite the promise that Microsoft #39;s Windows XP Service Pack 2 release will make PCs more

For Businesses, It #39;s Slow Going With Windows XP #39;s SP2


MSN Closes Search Engine Technology Preview\\Microsoft's MSN has closed down the preview/beta page of MSN Search Engine Technology ResearchBuzz reports. \\Trying to access it now gets you this page which includes the text


FOXBOROUGH -- It began as a punch line for Tom Brady's satellite radio ad.  quot;I thought I was his favorite receiver, quot; David Givens says, as Troy Brown and Deion Branch glance at him askance. Right now, he is. Brady, the Patriots' diplomatic quarterback, likes to say that his favorite receiver is whoever's open. It just happens so far this season ...

A 7th-rounder, Givens has caught up fast


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The women's tennis circuit is to be  shortened next year in an effort to give the players a longer  off-season, the tour's governing body announced on Thursday.

Women's Tour Shorten Season Under 'Roadmap 2010'


Ingram Micro is all set to acquire Tech Pacific, in a move that will significantly impact the Indian IT distribution and channels sector.

Ingram to acquire TechPac


NEW YORK -- Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc. stock soared yesterday after the firm confirmed a collaboration with reality-show guru Mark Burnett.

Martha pairing with reality guru


MADRID: It wasnt just the late September sun that the Spanish capital was basking in here on Wednesday, there was a warm glow as well from the way Real Madrid came back from two goals down to beat Roma 4-2 in Tuesdays Champions League group B match.

Real Madrid celebrates comeback


AP - Ryan Franklin ended an 11-game losing streak, outpitching John Lackey to lead the Seattle Mariners to a 1-0 win over the Anaheim Angels on Wednesday night.

Mariners Edge Angels 1-0 (AP)


SEVERAL everal California cities and counties have sued Microsoft, accusing the company of illegally charging inflated prices for its products because of monopoly control of the PC operating system market.

US counties sue Microsoft


Reuters - The United States will build stronger\defense ties with India, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld\vowed on Thursday, but New Delhi said proposed U.S. arms sales\to Pakistan could affect relations with Washington.

Rumsfeld Visits India, Delhi Frets on Arms Sales (Reuters)


The nation's former cybersecurity czar agrees to advise the government's incident response team.

Schmidt to take greater role in U.S. cybersecurity


REDMOND, Wash., Aug 28, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- The Microsoft Corp. has decided to advance the timetable on its much-anticipated overhaul of Windows, the Financial Times reported Saturday.

Microsoft to release Longhorn in  #39;06


The government of Singapore and Telekom Malaysia have agreed to buy a 48 percent stake in Idea Cellular of India from three companies for \$390 million to tap into India #39;s wireless market.

Stake in India cellphone operator to be sold


Miami #39;s Roscoe Parrish and Frank Gore tore up and down David A Harrison III Field at Scott Stadium on Saturday, leading the 18th-ranked Hurricanes to a 31-21 ACC victory over 10th-ranked Virginia.

A second test failed


The research operation will be shuttered, sources close to the company said, since UBS already has coverage in the areas where Schwab #39;s Soundview is strong.

UBS Aquires Schwab Capital Markets Business


LONDON (Reuters) - European stock markets were lifted  Monday by a tech-led rebound on Wall Street Friday and gains in  Asia, but euro zone government bonds fell after hawkish  comments from a key European Central Bank official.

European Shares Gain, But Bonds Slip


AP - Alando Tucker scored a career-high 27 points and No. 25 Wisconsin beat No. 12 Maryland 69-64 in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge on Tuesday night.

No. 25 Wisc. Upsets No. 12 Maryland 69-64 (AP)


The first launch of the Decatur-built, Boeing Delta IV heavy-lift rocket is scheduled today at Cape Canaveral Air Station in Florida.

Delta IV readyfor liftoff today


Will Bynum might have had to find his own way home if No. 3 Georgia Tech had let this one get away. Luke Schenscher made a pair of free throws with 25.9 seconds left, BJ Elder made three 3-pointers

No. 3 Georgia Tech 60, Illinois-Chicago 59


Department store selling projection TVs via Web; will offer them in stores in the fall, with other devices to follow.

Sears launches consumer electronics line


BASEBALL Arizona (NL): Signed SS Craig Counsell. Boston (AL): Signed SS Edgar Renteria and P John Halama. Chicago (NL): Named Grady Little special assistant in player development and minor league roving catching instructor, and Randy Bush special assistant to the vice president and general manager. Cincinnati (NL): Signed Ps David Weathers and Ben Weber. Colorado (NL): Signed OF Reggie Taylor ...

Transactions


Japan and the Philippines have agreed on key parts of a free trade pact but need a few more months to put finishing touches on the landmark accord between the World War II foes, officials said Tuesday.

Japan, Philippines Reach Free Trade Deal


SAN FRANCISCO - Consumers are easing off on PC purchases as corporations ramp up their purchases, according to the latest data from market researcher IDC. Slackening consumer demand will help lower expectations for the market in the second half of 2004 and into 2005, IDC said Monday.

IDC sees mixed future in worldwide PC market


Israel, in a policy change, would be willing to co-ordinate a planned withdrawal from the Gaza Strip if Palestinian authorities cracked down on militant groups, an Israeli official said today.

Israel  #39;Willing to Co-Ordinate Gaza Withdrawal #39;


The financial titans hope their co-branded cards win over better-heeled, prompt-paying consumers. It may not be so simple, however.

Citi and Amex: Plastic Fantastic?


When a 7.6 percent stake in Lukoil - the world #39;s No. 2 oil company by reserves - goes under the auction hammer Wednesday in Russia #39;s biggest privatization, industry watchers aren #39;t expecting any surprises.

ConocoPhillips Favorites in Lukoil Auction


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.  and  Thomas Weisel Partners agreed to pay a combined \$100 million to  settle charges involving conflicts of interest between research  and investment banking, U.S. regulators said on Thursday.

Two Investment Banks Settle with SEC


AP - Ohio State athletic director Andy Geiger and coach Jim Tressel defended the school's football program Tuesday against charges that players were paid by boosters and coddled academically.

Geiger, Tressel Defend Ohio State (AP)


All Black assistant Steve Hansen wants to develop a relationship between traditional foes New Zealand and Wales. He has instigated talks about the twinning concept, a year out from plans to have

Building up ties between the All Blacks and Welsh


Merck  amp; Co. Inc.(MRK.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , reeling from the recent withdrawal of its Vioxx arthritis drug, on Wednesday reaffirmed its 2004 earnings outlook but said earnings in 2005 will be lower than analysts had expected.

Merck Sees 2005 Profit Hurt by Vioxx


Reported comments from Sony exec raise doubts about launch of games handheld, which will include MP3 support.

MP3, hints of delay for PlayStation Portable


Reuters - Hundreds of thousands of people in\Eastern Canada could be without electricity until the end of\the week, officials said on Monday, after an early winter\blizzard downed power lines and crumpled transmission towers.

Thousands Remain Without Power in Eastern Canada (Reuters)


Technology rise loses steam by close. Weakness in blue chips returns. Rising oil prices weigh. By Alexandra Twin, CNN/Money staff writer.

Dow weakness prevails


PENSACOLA, Fla. - President Bush on Sunday got a firsthand look at Hurricane Ivan's devastation during his third trip to Florida to assess the damage from this summer's fierce storms in the South...

Bush Surveys Hurricane Damage in Florida


SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) - Wal-Mart Stores Inc. late Monday unveiled fiscal 2005 expansion plans that include adding 40 to 45 discount stores in the United States and 155 to 165 in international markets.

Wal-Mart unveils 2005 expansion plans


XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. XMSR.O chief executive officer Hugh Panero on Wednesday said he expected satellite radio and cellphone services to converge within the next five years.

XM CEO Sees Satellite Radio on Cell Phones


PARIS Bouygues Telecom and Vivendi Universal, both of France, began a new mobile phone service Wednesday in an attempt to bolster their market share and increase revenue from young customers.

Bouygues and Vivendi in mobile deal


NEW DELHI: India ranks 55th in a World Economic Forum ranking of 104 countries in terms of growth competitiveness. As per the WEFs Global Competitiveness Report 2004-05, Finland, home to Nokia, is the world

IT  amp; BPO may hog headlines, WEF index puts India at 55th


NEW YORK (Reuters) -  U.S. stock futures weakened on  Wednesday, pointing to a lower market open, as rising oil  prices and a wide-reaching investigation into the insurance  industry soured the mood on Wall Street.

Stocks Seen Lower; JP Morgan Hits Dow


On Tuesday, the Florida Marlins released Koch, who has struggled with control and consistency since recording 164 saves over his first four major league seasons.

Marlins release Koch, Castro walks


TEMPE, Ariz. - President Bush and challenger John Kerry opened their third and final debate on Wednesday as each candidate hoped to stamp a last favorable impression on millions of voters before Elecion day...

Bush, Kerry Open Final Debate in Arizona


RAFAH: The wanted leader of a Palestinian militant group and two of his lieutenants survived an Israeli assassination bid yesterday after an air strike targeted their vehicle in the southern Gaza Strip.

Militant leader hurt in attack


Brazil, Berlin, my first home game. It doesn #39;t get any better than that, Jrgen Klinsmann said in preparation for the showdown between the German soccer team and the 2002 world-champion Brazilians.

Germany gets aggressive


TOKYO (CBS.MW) - Japan #39;s Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said Monday its first-half net loss widened from a year earlier, and it downgraded its sales and net loss forecast for the year.

M #39;bishi Motors widens H1 net loss


InfoWorld - Software publishers and users are at odds about software licensing, according a study released Monday.

Update: Study shows software vendors, users at odds over licensing (InfoWorld)


A 78-YEAR-OLD man has been accused of twice raping a woman more than 30 years ago, amid an alleged culture of sex attacks on the tiny island of Pitcairn.

Pitcairn OAP on rape charge


Novell Inc. lifted the lid on forthcoming enhancements to its identity management tools at its Brainshare Europe customer conference in Barcelona, Spain,Monday.

Novell lifts lid on identity management tools


Fidelity Investments' largest funds voted to oust Michael D. Eisner from the chairman's post at Walt Disney Co., in one of last year's biggest proxy battles, according to voting records the nation's largest mutual-fund firm has made public for the first time.

Fidelity discloses its proxy votes