Although Microsoft and IBM offer IM products for the enterprise, smaller challengers are staking out valuable territory with a commitment to interoperability. This week both Antepo and Jabber will unveil new IM offerings that bolster standards support and security.

IM upstarts vie for interoperability


The European Unions head office said Monday it had filed a complaint against the United States and Canada for failing to lift sanctions against the EU over its ban on imports of hormone-treated beef.

WTO complaint filed against US, Canada


LONDON (Reuters) - European stock markets rose, bonds fell  and the dollar gained moderately against the euro after revised  data showed the second quarter slowdown in the U.S. economy was  less abrupt than initially thought.

Global Markets: Shares Rise, Bonds Fall


SAN DIEGO ---- The official announcement will be made Sunday, but barring any wild surprises, Arizona State and Texas A amp;M will be the participants in the Holiday Bowl on Dec. 30.

Sun Devils, Aggies closing in on Holiday Bowl berths


NEW YORK, October 26 (newratings.com) - Crude oil prices resumed their upward rally to close at above \$55 per barrel today, with a shift in focus back to the potential winter shortfall in the US inventories of heating oil, diesel and gasoline.

Oil prices return to above \$55 per barrel


Four sales executives of German chip maker Infineon Technologies AG (IFXGn.DE: Quote, Profile, Research) have agreed to plead guilty to participating in a conspiracy

Infineon Execs Pleading Guilty in US DRAM Probe


(Sports Network) - The New York Yankees will try to strengthen their hold on first place in the American league East this evening when they continue their three- game series with the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium.

New York Yankees Team Report - September 21


Melodeo, a mobile music service, has signed a deal with the Warner Music Group to make complete tracks from Warner #39;s music catalog available to cell phone users.

Melodeo Lands Cell-Phone Music Deals


A piece of the Sun is set to fall to Earth and be captured by Hollywood stunt pilots in a tricky mid-air manoeuvre, NASA announced on Thursday.

Stunt pilots to hook falling stardust sample


British Home Secretary David Blunkett on Sunday unveiled proposals for more far-reaching laws to tackle terrorism if the Labor government wins the next election widely expected in May next year.

British Labor government to step up anti-terror laws if wins next


Chechen warlord Shamil Basayev claims responsibility for the Beslan siege in which more than 320 hostages died.

Chechen rebel claims school siege


HE is jowly, uninspiring and favours shiny, wide-knotted ties. He has served for six quiet years as President, yet his modest proposal last week that he be re-elected was enough to unleash a constitutional and political crisis.

Damascus feels Beirut #39;s ripple effect


AP - Brunei's absolute ruler convened the tiny oil-rich sultanate's legislature for the first time in two decades Saturday to mull constitutional amendments that are expected to further strengthen his rule.

Brunei Convenes Legislature After 20 Years (AP)


Insurgents kill 21 Iraqis, mostly civilians working for the US military, in separate attacks across the country.

Gunmen kill Iraqis working for US


David Beckham has made it into the news, once again. But Beckham has done nothing for this publicity. Computer hackers have created a trojan virus attached to software by claiming to have sleazy photographs of the soccer star.

David Beckham Fans Beware: Trojan Makers Are Targeting


Adobe, one of the top manufacturers of image editing software, has created a new format for digital images that will save the data in raw file formats to allow professionals more freedom to control the various aspects and key details of raw image files.

Adobe creates new digital photo format


Two splashy Linux announcements coming from major database vendors underscore the fact that Linux is profoundly shaking up the database market.

Customers Win in Database Vendors #39; Race to Linux


washingtonpost.com - Google is famed for its Web search engine, but over the past few years it has acquired a different role: Microsoft's No. 1 foreign aid donor. First, Google fixed some of Internet Explorer's worst defects with its Google Toolbar, a free add-in that blocks pop-up ads and provides a shortcut to (naturally) Google's search engine and an auto-fill option to complete Web forms. Now it has released the Google Desktop, another free program that fixes an equally glaring weakness of Windows: its woeful file-searching capabilities.

Google Desktop Outshines Windows' File-Search Capabilities (washingtonpost.com)


The news came as Airbus predicted that 17,300 new passenger and freight aircraft, worth \$1.9trillion, were needed to meet global demand over the next 20 years.

Air talks back on runway


Since the day after the Reds fired Jim Bowden and Bob Boone nearly 17 months ago, virtually all of the club #39;s transactions have been geared toward raking in prospects and getting younger, especially on the pitcher #39;s mound.

Reds #39; first move of winter produces starting pitcher


Kerry Earnhardt, a son of late legendary NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt #39;s, is scheduled to compete in Saturday #39;s NAPA 150 at Colorado National Speedway.

Earnhardt sets sights on CNS


CHARLOTTE  The kids certainly were having fun, but for the Heat this hardly was child #39;s play. In front of a energetic, student-only crowd of about 13,000 middle-schoolers, the Heat received

Heat shows shortcomings


For years, we #39;ve been subjected to warnings that  quot;global warming quot; might one day change the way we live our lives. That day, pretty much, is today.

Wineke: Global warming is a moral issue


Ebay Inc. (EBAY.O: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Friday it would buy Rent.com, an Internet housing rental listing service, for \$415 million in a deal that gives it access to a new segment of the online real estate market.

EBay to Pay \$415 Mln for Rent.com


SEATTLE - The 258th hit in 2004 for Ichiro Suzuki was like so many others, a little ground ball up the middle. Only this one made history - a hit cheered 'round the world...

Ichiro Breaks Sisler's Season Hits Record


BEIJING: China shut 1600 internet cafes between February and August and imposed 100 million yuan (\$NZ18 million) worth of fines for allowing children to play violent or adult-only games and other violations, state media say.

China closes 1600 internet cafes


CHARLOTTE, NC - Financial services firm Wachovia Corp. said Friday that third-quarter earnings increased as declining retail brokerage activity was offset by higher revenue in wealth management and investment banking segments.

Wachovia reports boost in 3rd-quarter profits


Services try different approaches to sender authentication to halt spam.

AOL, Yahoo Add New Antispam Tools


BRASILIA, Brazil (Reuters) - A Brazilian court on Fridaybarred the lesbian partner of the outgoing mayor of an Amazontown from trying to succeed her, citing a ban on politicaloffice passing between family members.

Mayor's Lesbian Partner Barred from Race in Brazil


Reuters - U.S. officials on Wednesday\announced a tentative land swap that they say would enlarge an\Alaska wildlife refuge but that critics charge would open up\the area to oil and gas development.

Tentative Alaska Land Swap Raises Drilling Fears (Reuters)


PC World - Deal with Microsoft will allow users to access e-mail without third-party software.

PalmOne Eyes Mobile E-Mail (PC World)


KILKENNY - Tiger Woods will decide today if he will be able to play in a multi-million dollar championship after injuring his shoulder.

Shoulder injury casts doubts over Tiger


Canadian Press - EDMONTON (CP) - The push to convince the United States to reopen its border to live Canadian cattle shouldn't be affected by Monday's resignation of U.S. Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman, industry leaders say.

Resigning U.S. agriculture secretary won't slow border reopening: beef industry (Canadian Press)


Italian cyclist Alessandro Petacchi won the second stage of the Tour of Spain in a mass sprint finish, as Dutchman Max van Heeswijk claimed the leader #39;s yellow jersey.

Alessandro Petacchi Claims 2nd Stage of Tour of Spain


WELLINGTON (Dow Jones)--Prime Infrastructure Group (PIF.AU) could still change the terms of its controversial takeover bid for Powerco Ltd.

NZ Watchdog:Changes To Prime #39;s Bid For Powerco Difficult


Setting the stage for what it hopes will be a  quot;breakout year quot; for its server operating systems, Microsoft this week announced it will ship the first Release Candidate of its Service Pack 1 (SP1) for Windows Server 2003 by year #39;s end as well as a SDK

Microsoft Patches Windows Server 2003


BLACK Watch troops were today facing new dangers in Iraq after rebels massacred 50 Iraqi soldiers. The Iraqi troops were ambushed and shot dead, heightening the dangers for the Scots regiment as it made final

Black Watch on new alert after massacre


Reuters - U.S. Treasury yields touched their\lowest levels in over a month on Wednesday, driven by largely\technical factors in an illiquid year-end market.

Treasuries Rally, Yields Hit 6-Week Lows (Reuters)


A Senate commission studying Maryland's medical malpractice crisis gave some ground yesterday on legal changes sought by Gov. Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) and endorsed the creation of a state fund that would subsidize doctors' insurance costs for the next four years.

Md. Senate Panel Relents on Medical Malpractice Reform


Juan Dixon takes advantage of some rare playing time by scoring 15 fourth-quarter points to help the Wizards beat the Hawks, 104-101.

Dixon Carries Wizards


The next version of the Windows operating system, Microsoft Corp. #39;s (MSFT.O: Quote, Profile, Research) flagship product, will ship in 2006, the world #39;s largest software maker said on Friday.

Microsoft Commits to 2006 Target for Next Windows


A lawyer for the tobacco industry Thursday attempted to paint the former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration as a man who seized upon a political environment that was hostile to the tobacco industry in order to advance his

Ex-FDA chief hit on tobacco crusade


Scotland manager Berti Vogts has suffered another setback ahead of the World Cup qualifiers against Norway and Moldova with the news that Steven Pressley has pulled out of the squad.

Pressley Out of Scotland Squad


Intel Corp. (INTC.O: Quote, Profile, Research) on Thursday cut its third-quarter revenue and profit margin forecast after demand for both its computer microprocessors

UPDATE 4-Intel cuts revenue outlook; stock declines


A car bomb killed one US soldier and two Iraqi police at a checkpoint near Abu Ghraib on Thursday morning. Separately, Iraqi police reported numerous injuries and some deaths in two

Car Bomb Kills 1 US Soldier near Abu Ghraib


A movie studio coalition says it has worked out standards for films without film.

Digital cinema moves closer to local multiplex


AFP - Freshly recovered from a heart operation, British Prime Minister Tony Blair was scheduled to fly to Ethiopia on a personal aid mission which he hopes will also provide a restorative boost to his own place in history.

Blair heads off to Africa on trip aimed at securing legacy (AFP)


Reuters - The central bank raised its overnight repo rate on Tuesday for the first time in more than four years, citing concerns about a rise in inflation in Asia's fourth-largest economy.

RBI raises interest rates to tackle inflation (Reuters)


England captain David Beckham has denied reports that he plans to retire from international soccer after the 2006 World Cup and said he wants to play for his country as long as possible.

Beckham to play beyond 2006 World Cup


SYDNEY - Australia #39;s opposition leader Mark Latham may have dealt the killer blow against his rival John Howard in the run-up to next week #39;s federal election by offering free medical care to people aged above 75.

Latham #39;s ace: free health care for the over-75s


AP - Manchester United captain Roy Keane pleaded not guilty to all three charges Thursday over an alleged confrontation with a 16-year-old boy.

Keane Pleads Not Guilty to Assault Charges (AP)


TOP-seeded Marat Safin advanced to the second round of the St Petersburg Open today when Austrian Alexander Peya retired with an injured ankle.

Safin gets free ride


POTCHEFSTROOM, South Africa (AFP) - England captain Michael Vaughan admitted his team had received a  quot;kick up the backside quot; when they crashed to a seven-wicket defeat against South Africa A at Sedgars Park.

#39;Kick up the backside for England, #39; says Vaughan after loss


Your credit card information is coming under more frequent attack on the Internet than ever before. A study by Symantec Corp. says electronic commerce has become the favourite target of computer hackers.

Gone in 30 seconds: your money


AP - A deal taking shape Friday in negotiations on Northern Ireland's future would require the outlawed Irish Republican Army to resume disarmament and issue a new statement that, for the first time, would definitively renounce violence.

Groups Holds Northern Ireland Peace Talks (AP)


Microsoft Corp. Chief Executive Steve Ballmer reiterated the company #39;s case against the open-source Linux operating system yesterday in an e-mail message to customers that was notable in part for its timing.

Ballmer argues against Linux


By day, Alexander Vincent is a mild-mannered secretary for a Vallejo real estate broker. By night, he #39;s an online crusader protecting users of a new Internet browser from glitches and security bugs.

Volunteers spread word of Firefox


The Philippines is able to service its debt, the government said Tuesday, as officials scrambled to reassure jittery investors a day after the president rattled the markets by saying the country was in the throes of a fiscal crisis.

Update 1: Philippines Able to Service Its Debt


Retail sales fell 0.4 in July - the first monthly decline in over a year - but the underlying trend remains strong, official figures showed today.

Retail sales fall in July


WASHINGTON - Big game hunters may be off the hook in the latest twist of a prehistoric whodunit that tries to explain why bison populations sharply crashed thousands of years ago.

Hunters Off the Hook for Bison Declines


com staff writers. The parent company of Peugeot and Citroen has announce that due to the economy affecting the car market, they will withdraw from World Rally Championship competition at the end of the 2005 season.

Peugeot, Citroen will withdraw at


A study into online music piracy suggests record sales in the US have fallen because of online piracy.

Music piracy 'does hit CD sales'


WASHINGTON The tobacco industry urged a federal appeals court today to throw out a decision allowing the Justice Department to sue cigarette companies for 280 (b) billion dollars.

Tobacco companies say government can #39;t sue under RICO


Allen Lew, managing director of SingTel Optus Pty #39;s mobile unit, and Andy Reeves, chief technology officer at Vodafone Group Plc #39;s Australian unit, speak on a teleconference from Sydney

Australia  amp; New Zealand


Rome, Italy (Sports Network) - Juventus stretched its lead in the Italian Serie A on Saturday with a 3-0 win over Siena. Del Piero put his side on the scoreboard in the 53rd minute when the Siena keeper, Marco

Del Piero leads Juventus to victory


Reuters - When India play Pakistan, it is a classic hockey match, their historic rivalry sucking in the whole stadium.

Hockey teams seek foreign secrets of success (Reuters)


Jason Giambi stepped out of his black convertible with the California plates outside Yankee Stadium on Friday evening and was met by a Yankees security official.

Giambi, Yanks won #39;t discuss published report


Back-to-school shopping used to be pretty low-tech. You'd get pencils, a notebook with blue-lined paper, some clothes, and maybe a new backpack.

Back to school with gadgets galore


In less than a month, a little piece of Centennial engineer Laura Ellen Dafoe will parachute to the frigid surface of Saturn #39;s moon Titan.

Engineer #39;s thoughts drift toward Saturnian moon


Milton Bradley threw a tantrum -- and a bottle -- all before the Los Angeles Dodgers strengthened their hold on the NL West lead with a wild victory.

Dodgers win wild one; San Francisco, Chicago and Houston in <b>...</b>


According to reports, Sven Jaschan, who was arrested in May and charged with creating some of the most potent viruses to hit the internet, has been offered a job with Lueneburg, Germany-based Securepoint.

Sasser author hired by AV firm


Richard Branson says his Virgin Group is talking to a number of Indian airlines about taking a 49 stake in some carriers.

Virgin 'seeking Indian airline'


The UN drops food into remote communities in Sudan's troubled Darfur region that are cut off by rain.

UN airlifts food to Darfur town


By now, reality should have set in for Roy Jones Jr. and his brain cleared enough to realize his sometimes brilliant career is over.

Punch Drunk


Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the closing ceremony of the Athens Olympics, as initially planned, but will visit a Russian monastery in the Mount Athos monk community in northern Greece a few days later instead, according to a report.

Putin To Visit Monks Instead of Olympics


AP - Jason White threw five touchdown passes, including the decisive one with 6:43 left, and the second-ranked Oklahoma Sooners overcame Texas A amp;M's explosive offense and special teams trickery for a 42-35 victory Saturday.

No. 2 Okla. Outguns No. 22 Texas A M 42-35 (AP)


Colombia's Congress gave final approval to a bill to allow President Alvaro Uribe to run for re-election, a move aimed at giving the hard-line leader more time to fight a leftist insurgency and drug trafficking.

Colombia Congress OKs Re-Election Bill


LONDON, September 16 (New Ratings) - Infineon Technologies (IFX.ETR) has agreed to plead guilty and to pay a fine of \$160 million to settle the federal charges of participating in an international conspiracy of DRAM price fixing.

Infineon pleads guilty of DRAM price fixing; to pay \$160mn fine


As the mailbox storage space rivalry continues, Hotmail has now begun upgrading the email account of its users. According to reports the upgrade will be in a phased manner, beginning from the United States and Europe, and later moving on to other regions.

Hotmail Upgrade Finally Starts


LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Warning: Suburban sprawl may be hazardous to your health. A report released Monday found that people who live in sprawling metropolitan areas are more likely to report chronic health problems such as high blood pressure, arthritis, headaches and breathing difficulties than residents of more compact cities...

Study Links Suburban Sprawl to Various Ailments


AP - New England Patriots receiver-turned-defensive back Troy Brown was easy to spot on the field in St. Louis: He was the one always trying to catch his breath, but smiling.

Brown Does Triple Duty for Patriots (AP)


TechWeb - Adobe releases an upgrade of its consumer-focused photo-editing software, which has been enhanced with new features for improving photo quality.

Adobe Ships Upgrade of Photoshop For Non-Professionals (TechWeb)


Letting cable TV subscribers pay for only the channels they want won't reduce the cost for most, federal regulators told Congress in a report released Friday. Consumer groups immediately attacked the study as flawed.

FCC Updates Congress on Cable TV Prices


Money the prime motivator as viruses and spam converge  63.5 of all email during the first six months of 2004 was spam  Over 1.5 million phishing emails intercepted  Spyware makes its first appearance in the spam attack arsenal Sydney. 17th ...

Cash for emails - script kiddies use spam to make their fortunes


Reuters - The Arizona Diamondbacks have\fired newly-hired manager Wally Backman and are expected to\replace him with Bob Melvin, according to a published report.

Diamondbacks Fire Backman (Reuters)


Free agent Armando Benitez and the San Francisco Giants agreed to a three-year contract yesterday, a move that stabilizes the club's closer role that's been in flux since Robb Nen got injured two years ago.

Giants ink Benitez to three-year deal


Take a look on e-bay, and you #39;ll find some cheesy items up for sale. But probably none as  quot;cheesy quot; as this one. The on-line auction website, e-bay, took a grilled cheese sandwich listing.

Half-Eaten Grilled Cheese Draws Large Bids on E-bay


TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran has increased the range of its  missiles to 1,250 miles, a senior official was quoted as saying  on Tuesday.

Iran Says Its Missiles Can Now Reach 1,250 Miles


Russia #39;s approval of the Kyoto Protocol this month released the brakes for an agreement that has been under international negotiations since 1997.

Kyoto pressures Korea for action


LOS ANGELES -- They were playing the role of spoilers, heavy underdogs to a Southern California team that wants to prove it is the best college football team in the country this season.

Not much fight in Irish


Amare Stoudemire scored 33 points, including the go-ahead three-point play with 51.8 seconds remaining, to power the Phoenix Suns to a 107-102 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night.

Suns 107, Lakers 102


NEW YORK (Reuters) - There's nothing like a picture of a  child with Santa Claus -- especially since the number of  parents who line up in stores to get these photos taken could  indicate the health of the holiday shopping season.

Holiday Sales Forecasted in New Ways


WASHINGTON (CBS.MW) -- The global economic outlook that looked strong in April is starting to fray around the edges, according to an International Monetary Fund report released on Wednesday.

Higher oil prices prompt downward revision to  #39;05 outlook


Let #39;s start by dispensing praise to both the US and Spanish Davis Cup teams that will play for the chalice the first week of December.

Americans to take on Spaniards in Davis Cup finale in December


No doubt that Frank Francisco should have the book thrown at him for what he did in Oakland Monday night. But for that matter, so should the rest of us, for condoning the type of behavior that preceded the Texas Rangers relief pitcher #39;s errant toss.

Throw the book at ... everybody


Iceland is ready to provide a residence permit to worlds chess ex-champion Bobby Fischer whos now serving his sentence in one of the Japanese jails.

Iceland to home Bobby Fischer


INDIANAPOLIS -- All-Star Vince Carter was traded by the Toronto Raptors to the New Jersey Nets for Alonzo Mourning, Eric Williams, Aaron Williams, and a pair of first-round draft picks yesterday.

Nets get Carter from Raptors


Fred Taylor ran for a 1-yard touchdown with nine seconds left Sunday, and the Jaguars earned their first victory ever in Nashville.

Jaguars finally get win over Titans, knock out McNair


Canadian brewer Molson Inc. #39;s proposed merger with Adolph Coors Co. may lack sufficient shareholder support because there soon may be another offer to consider, Molson #39;s chief

Molson boss says Molson-Coors mer


AFP - US influence in Asia is at risk of seriously diminishing if Washington fails to undertake a more coherent policy in the region that goes beyond its concerns with terrorism and nuclear proliferation, US experts on Asia said in a report.

US influence in Asia at risk of dwindling: US experts (AFP)


SHIITE radical leader Moqtada al-Sadr today ordered a nationwide ceasefire and announced his militant movement would join the political mainstream, one of his aides said in Baghdad.

Militia leader orders ceasefire


BUCHAREST (Reuters) - An earthquake hit Romania on  Wednesday night, shaking buildings in the capital Bucharest but  apparently causing little damage, Reuters witnesses said.

Earthquake Hits Romania, No Reports of Casualties


Mozilla Firefox, the open-source alternative to Microsoft Corp. #39;s dominant Web browser, is preparing for prime time with the first preview of its 1.0 release and a new marketing campaign.

Mozilla Nears Firefox Finale


Buffalo, NY (Sports Network) - The Buffalo Sabres have agreed to terms with 2003 first round draft choice Thomas Vanek on a three year entry-level contract.

Sabres and Vanek agree to deal


popular with prisoners and guards who give her  quot;kid-glove quot; treatment, a new report says. In the seven weeks since the diva of

Martha has a jailhouse flock - nun


NAJAF, Iraq (Reuters) - At least 10 supporters of Iraq's  top Shi'ite cleric were shot dead in Najaf Thursday when gunmen  opened fire at police who were trying to control the crowd,  prompting the police to return fire, witnesses said.

Ten Sistani Supporters Killed in Iraq's Najaf


A FLOOD of nasty e-mails has made Ryder Cup star Paul Casey realise he made the biggest mistake of his career so far by talking about  quot;hating quot; Americans.

Casey voices regret after e-mail barrage


AP - A big home run by Ruben Sierra, a clutch 11th-inning hit by Alex Rodriguez and the New York Yankees are headed right back where most people figured  #151; playing the Boston Red Sox for the AL pennant. Sierra's three-run homer in the eighth inning tied it, then Rodriguez doubled, alertly stole third base and scored the go-ahead run on a wild pitch by Kyle Lohse to lift the Yankees over the Minnesota Twins 6-5 Saturday.

Yankees Beat Twins to Win Playoff Series (AP)


Microsoft is making a major push to get Windows users to embrace the security-focused overhaul to its XP computer operating system.

WINDOWS XP SERVICE PACK 2 Answer guide


SEATTLE, Nov. 6 -- A technician at a cancer center was sentenced to 16 months in prison for stealing the identity of a gravely ill patient, who spent months trying to clear his name while the disease ravaged his body.

Man Sentenced in Theft of Patient #39;s Identity


Kolkata - South Africa were bowled out for 222 after 72 minutes of play on the final day to set a 117-run target for India to win the second and final Test here on Thursday.

India set sights on victory


The Indian economy is poised for sustained economic growth of 7-8 per cent for the next ten years, Finance Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram told participants in a keynote address at the opening session of the World Economic Forum #39;s 20th India Economic

India to grow at 8 for 10 years: FM


A video shown on Arabic television Sunday shows three people believed to be UN hostages who were seized by militants in Afghanistan.

Video of UN hostages telecast


AP - Jennifer Weiner, author of the best-selling novels

More Authors Keeping Online Journals (AP)


The surge in violence has led many experts to voice serious doubts about whether legitimate elections can be held in January.

At Least 26 Dead as 3 Car Bombs Explode in Iraq


WASHINGTON : Bankrupt United Airlines has agreed to appoint an independent party to manage its employee pension funds prior to September 15 in an agreement with the US Labor Department.

UAL agrees to independent agents to oversee pension funds


The landscape has changed since Smarty Jones #39; meteoric rise from obscurity to stardom last spring, when the colt from Pennsylvania appeared to be

Notebook: Breeders #39; Cup gives title hope to several


AT amp;T Wireless Services Inc. (AWE.N: Quote, Profile, Research) launches a mobile e-mail and messaging device without voice service on Monday, aiming to use a low price to tempt young consumers.

AT amp;T Wireless Sells Dedicated Messaging Device


PRISTINA, Serbia-Montenegro -- Kosovo's beleaguered Serb minority largely boycotted general elections yesterday, dealing a blow to international efforts to create multiethnic harmony in the province.

Serbs boycott Kosovo elections


HEMPSTEAD, N.Y., (Sports Network) - New York Jets wide  receiver Santana Moss is probable for Sunday's AFC East  showdown against the red-hot New England Patriots. Both teams  are undefeated and will square off at Gillette Stadium in  Foxboro, MA.

Jets' Moss Probable for Sunday


Ruling bloc and opposition lawmakers Thursday criticized the government #39;s slow response to a mystery submarine that intruded into Japan #39;s territorial waters the previous day.

Lawmakers question delayed response to sub


Two Manchester United fans #39; groups are meeting former Football League chairman Keith Harris to discuss how to ward off any takeover bid by Malcolm Glazer.

Man Utd fans unite against Glazer


Sep 08 - Vijay Singh revelled in his status as the new world number one after winning the Deutsche Bank Championship by three shots in Boston on Monday.

Vijay Singh revels in top spot


Rob Gingell, until recently Sun Microsystems Inc. #39;s chief engineer and also a Sun fellow and vice president of the company, has severed his ties with Sun to join former colleagues at an up-and-coming technology company.

Sun, Gingell Part Company


TWO truck drivers from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka kidnapped in Iraq by the same militant group that claims to be holding two French journalists have been released by their captors, officials said today.

Hostages walk free in Iraq


nron Corp. #39;s interim chief executive has asked a federal bankruptcy judge to award his firm a \$25 million  quot;success fee quot; for stabilizing the fallen Houston energy giant.

Enron #39;s interimboss seeking \$25 million fee


SAN FRANCISCO -- IBM and PeopleSoft on Tuesday announced that PeopleSoft will standardize its applications on core IBM middleware products and that both companies will market the joint solutions.

IBM, PeopleSoft form alliance


Six years ago, Steve Finley set out to reshape his physique. He began an unorthodox exercise regimen that involved lifting no weight heavier than 50 pounds, a program designed

Angels fit Finley into their plans


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The number of Americans filing first  claims for jobless pay fell 3,000 last week, the Labor  Department said on Thursday in a report showing no impact from  Hurricane Charley which struck Florida last Friday.

Jobless Claims Dip, No Storm Effect


Reserve Eddie Griffin converts 10 of 14 shots for 23 points as the Minnesota Timberwolves deal the winless New Orleans Hornets another setback, 99-94.

Hornets Drop to 0-8


Group to push development of HD DVD hardware and content, plus try to drive commercial adoption.

HD-DVD group forms promotion unit


IBM (Quote, Chart) is easing restrictions on its ISV (define) membership program, opening the door for more marketing and sales help for companies that make software based on IBM #39;s middleware platform.

IBM Eases ISV Rein


Canadian Press - SHANGHAI (AP) - Thousands of retired textile factory workers in an eastern Chinese industrial centre blocked traffic in a weekend protest over the failure of their pensions to keep pace with rising prices, officials and labour advocates said Monday.

East China factory workers protest rising prices, low pensions (Canadian Press)


Germany won the FIFA Under-19 Women #39;s World Championship on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over China. The United States finished third, beating Brazil 3-0 in the earlier game.

Germany wins women #39;s under-19 soccer title; US is third


A rash of recent e-mail scams relies on new techniques to try to fool PC users, according to e-mail filtering vendor SurfControl.

Latest spam scams use Google, Olympics


Bryan Robson is returning to West Bromwich Albion after a 23-year absence. Robson left West Brom in 1981 as one of England #39;s top players to join Manchester United.

West Brom names former star player Bryan Robson manager


WASHINGTON - Another small hike in United States interest rates is seen as a certainty when Federal Reserve policy-makers meet today.

Rates rise increases to continue


SAMARRA, Iraq -- Bloodied by weeks of suicide bombings and assassinations, Iraqi security forces emerged yesterday to patrol Samarra after a morale-boosting victory in this Sunni Triangle city, and US commanders praised their performance.

Victorious Iraqi forces patrol Samarra


Costa Rica #39;s former president Miguel Angel Rodriguez was jailed on Friday for six months pendinginvestigation of corruption charges against him.

Costa Rican ex-president Ridriguez jailed


Company patches one search engine security flaw and is notified of another.

Google Security Holes Surface


AP - Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Tim Bowens will miss Sunday's opener against Tennessee because of a back injury.

Dolphins' Bowens to Miss Opener Vs. Titans (AP)


ZURICH (Reuters) - Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova saw  her hopes of a third consecutive WTA title dashed Sunday in a  surprise defeat by unseeded Australian Alicia Molik in the  final of the Zurich Challenge.

Molik Stuns Sharapova to Take Zurich Title


International mediators have sworn in all the main warlords who will become members of Somalia #39;s new parliament in a major step towards ending 13 years of anarchy.

SOMALIA ENDS 13 YEARS OF ANARCHY


TEHRAN/VIENNA (Reuters) - Iran pledged on Sunday to suspend  its uranium enrichment program to ease concerns that its  nuclear program is aimed at developing weapons, but warned that  the freeze was only temporary.

Iran Agrees to Full Nuclear Enrichment Freeze


driven by China #39;s insatiable demand for Australian coal - are expected to boost national export earnings by \$12.5 billion this year.

Coal deal fails to fill black hole


NASA #39;S Cassini space-probe has sent back some stunning images from its close encounter with Titan, one of the moon #39;s of the giant ringed planet Saturn.

Cassini Close-Up on Titan


Film-maker Franco Zeffirelli is the first Italian citizen to receive an honorary knighthood from Britain.

UK honour for director Zeffirelli


Officials at EarthLink #39;s (Quote, Chart) R amp;D facility have quietly released a proof-of-concept file-sharing application based on the Session Initiated Protocol (define).

EarthLink Intros SIP-Based P2P Prototype


Tim Henman was sent packing from the Paris Masters this afternoon as Russia #39;s Mikhail Youzhny inflicted a straight-sets third-round defeat on the British No1.

Faux pas by Henman


EVERY postal worker in the country is in line for a windfall of at least 800 after the Royal Mail announced today it was making profits of 1 million a day.

800 cheque in post for every mail worker


BESLAN, Russia Sept. 5, 2004 - Wails of mourning echoed through the streets of this southern Russian town on Sunday, and the region #39;s top police officer reportedly resigned in the wake of the school hostage

Russian Town Mourns As Putin Vows Fight


CLEVELAND -- The Patriots' defense wasn't tested much while the outcome was in doubt during a 42-15 victory over the Cleveland Browns yesterday. The Patriots allowed one first down and picked off a Luke McCown pass in taking a 14-0 lead in the first quarter.

Defense was up for challenge


DES MOINES, Iowa, Aug 20 (Reuters) - High foreign ownership of US debt is  quot;a healthy situation quot; and the dollar will remain the world #39;s preferred reserve currency, Treasury Secretary John Snow said on Friday.

US #39;s Snow-dollar to remain top reserve currency


In late August Aspyr Media Inc. and Wideload Games first announced plans to collaborate on a new game release. On Thursday Aspyr and Wideload Games offered the first details about the game, including platform information and a release schedule.

Aspyr, Wideload offer Rebel Without a Pulse details


quot;The US federal court #39;s decision serves as another important affirmation of ICANN #39;s multistakeholder participatory model, and reaffirms the ICANN structure, quot; stated John Jeffrey, ICANN #39;s General Counsel.

Federal Court Dismisses VeriSign Claim Against ICANN


Tens of thousands of Germans are expected on the streets of Berlin today for the latest of a series of demonstration which the organisers say will continue until the government withdraws its plans to cut social benefit payments.

Germans mass against benefit changes


Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer took quite a dig at the iPod and its users, implying that the iPod was without significant DRM protection, and that the majority of music on everyone #39;s iPods is stolen.

Ballmer bashes iPoders as thieves, industry looks for solutions


Amazon.com and Microsoft Tuesday announced that they had joined forces to put spammers and phishing scammers in new legal crosshairs.

Amazon, Microsoft Sue Spammers, Phishers


Canadian Press - OTTAWA (CP) - Paul Martin's minority government is set to put its political life on the line Thursday by opposing a Bloc Quebecois amendment to the throne speech.

Minority Liberals to oppose Bloc amendment, put government on line (Canadian Press)


WASHINGTON The Pentagon says it #39;s reopening a controversial deal to supply refueling tankers to the Air Force, dealing a blow to Chicago-based Boeing.

Pentagon says it will open tanker deal to competition


ABOUT 70,000 people were forced to evacuate Real Madrid #39;s Santiago Bernabeu stadium minutes before the end of a Primera Liga match yesterday after a bomb threat in the name of ETA Basque separatist guerillas.

Bomb scare for Spanish fans


AccountingWEB.com - Oct-28-2004 - A shareholder suit brought about by outrage over the severance package paid to former President Michael Ovitz is unveiling some deep dissention in the House of Mouse, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Ovitz, Eisner Relationship Spotlighted in Disney Suit


But the words of the Miami Dolphins #39; wide receiver following Monday night #39;s humiliating 41-14 loss to the New York Jets had a bullhorn #39;s effect on the cascading level of frustration a 1-7 season

Dolphins frustrated, say the won #39;t -- and did not -- quit


Juergen Klinsmann took some risks in his home debut as Germany coach and they paid off in a 1-1 draw Wednesday with five-time World Cup champion Brazil.

Klinsmann #39;s aggressive moves net Germany draw with Brazil


SEATTLE -- A toxic algae bloom almost 50 km wide has been detected off the northwest coast of Washington state, the largest and most potentially lethal yet found by scientists in the region.

Lethal algae discovered off coast


Reflecting the uncertainty that has always swirled around Oracle Corp.'s hostile bid for control of PeopleSoft Inc., two major PeopleSoft shareholders have reached opposite conclusions on how to cast their votes on Oracle's buyout offer.

PeopleSoft shareholders split vote on Oracle bid


WEST VIRGINIA (4-1) at UCONN (4-1) When and where: Tonight, 7:30, at East Hartford TV/radio: ESPN. Last season: Did not play. Comments: This is the first meeting on the gridiron for these programs. The Huskies lead the Big East in total offense with 424.2 yards a game and are second in defense, only allowing 268 yards a game. Senior quarterback ...

Tonight's key New England game


BOTH Prime Minister John Howard and Opposition Leader Mark Latham today played down new poll results which showed the Government clawing back some of Labor #39;s lead.

Howard, Latham shrug off poll


Montenegro prosecutors charge a former karate champion over the death of a newspaper editor.

Charges over Montenegro killing


Hollywood film executive Mike Jefferies could become the fourth suitor to bid for Liverpool this year. BBC Business News Online looks at the latest courting of one of the world #39;s most famous football clubs and global brands.

Latest suitor lines up Liverpool FC


Sheik Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has been chosen as president of the United Arab Emirates, succeeding his father, who

Emirates official media reports Sheik Khalifa chosen as UAE <b>...</b>


Do clinical trials actually benefit the volunteers who take part? Is scientific research used as a tool by political spin doctors?

British Association for the Advancement of Science (BA): Festival <b>...</b>


Barry Bonds barely missed his 700th homer, but JT Snow connected following yet another walk to the San Francisco slugger and the Giants beat the Milwaukee Brewers 8-1 behind Brett Tomko #39;s four-hitter Wednesday night.

Giants 8, Brewers 1


SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Levi Strauss   Co. swung to a  quarterly profit on Tuesday, citing cost cuts and a weaker  dollar as the struggling jeans maker closed out poor-performing  products to focus on its Levi, Dockers and lower-priced  Signature brands.

Levi Strauss Posts Profit


Foreign ministers extended an EU-wide travel ban on high-ranking Burmese officers after finding the military leadership had failed to improve its human rights record.

EU steps up Burma sanctions


Record companies in the UK are for the first time to sue music fans who download tracks illegally from the internet. The British Phonographic Industry, the trade body for record labels in the UK, is to announce

UK record labels to sue song-swap pirates


ATHENS (Reuters) - Athens Olympics organizers have  vehemently denied any financial improprieties in the run-up to  this year's Games as suggested in an audit report this week.

Games Finances Correct, Athens Olympics Chief Says


Reuters - Poultry producer Sanderson Farms Inc.\(SAFM.O) said on Tuesday its quarterly profit doubled on strong\demand, but warned of lower wholesale prices and higher grain\costs, sparking a 23 percent drop in its shares.

Poultry Producer's Stock Falls 23 Percent (Reuters)


Martha Stewart may be heading to jail, but the company that oversees her stable of books, magazines and television shows is staying loyal.

Stewart gets new five-year deal


By LAURAN NEERGAARD    WASHINGTON (AP) -- A tiny tent-like device implanted into the heart appears to block strokes caused by a common irregular heartbeat, sealing off a spot where dangerous blood clots form, German and U.S. researchers reported Wednesday...

New Implant Device Appears to Block Strokes


Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - According to a broadcast report, the NBA has suspended Indiana #39;s Ron Artest for 30 games and teammates Stephen Jackson and Jermaine O #39;Neal 20 games apiece for their part in a brawl between the Pacers and the Pistons on

Report: Artest suspended for 30 games


The Santiago Bernabeu will be under the spotlights when Real host Roma in a clash the loser of which will be in dire straits. Both sides are enjoying poor league form and injury worries as their new coaches

Real Madrid host AS Roma in a game of survival


Sean O #39;Keefe stepped down from leading NASA this week and into the pole position for Louisiana #39;s top academic job, chancellor of LSU, where he met Wednesday with

Departing NASA chief faces faculty questions at LSU over possible <b>...</b>


Two goals in four minutes from Ukranian striker Andriy Shevchenko gave AC Milan a 2-1 win away to Lazio and kick-started the Italian champions #39; title defence.

Shevchenko #39;s double breathes life into 10-man Milan


Sean Harrigan was ousted from his post as president of the \$177 billion California Public Employees' Retirement System. In a 3 to 2 vote in San Francisco, the California state Personnel Board pulled Harrigan from Calpers, where he had served for five years. Elected as Calpers board president in February 2003, Harrigan is a longtime union official and an advocate for corporate governance reform. He persuaded institutional investors to withhold votes for Walt Disney's Michael D. Eisner as board chairman, and he led a drive to withhold votes for Safeway chief executive Steven A. Burd while the union was on strike against the company. Ron Alvarado will succeed Harrigan beginning Jan. 1, a board spokeswoman said.

Calpers President Voted Out


US Airways Group Inc. and its pilots union agreed to resume negotiations on wage and benefits cuts the carrier is seeking to operate during bankruptcy protection.

US Airways, pilots to resume talks


STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Men all over the world distort the  teachings of Islam and Christianity to justify abusing their  wives and daughters, leading to thousands of

Experts: Men Distort Religion to Justify 'Honour' Killings


ALBUQUERQUE, NM Nov 16, 2004 - New Mexico signed coach Rocky Long a contract extension through 2009 on Tuesday. While details of the new contract are still being worked out, Long is getting a pay raise of

New Mexico Coach Gets 2009 Extension


Paris, France (Sports Network) - Second-seeded Lleyton Hewitt and third-seeded Tim Henman each posted second-round victories Tuesday at the \$3.

Hewitt and Henman advance in Paris


AMERICAS Thanksgiving Day brought good news for the child who has everything. Almost a year after it went bankrupt and closed down, FAO Schwarz, the worlds most renowned toy shop, yesterday reopened its store on New Yorks Fifth Avenue.

The perfect shop for children who like to toy with money


SAN FRANCISCO - Mayor Gavin Newsom on Sunday asked labor leaders and the management of 14 hotels embroiled in a nearly month-old dispute to resume normal operations for at least 90 days while the two sides try to negotiate a new contract.

SF mayor seeks cooling-off period in hotel contract dispute


Latin America #39;s agricultural giant scored two trade victories Wednesday against rich countries #39; farm subsidies after the World Trade Organization agreed with Brazil

WTO rules against US, EU on sugar, cotton


A telephone call to the technical support hotline, or an online chat session with a technician, may not be the best ways to solve computer problems.

Fellow users are the best support


RAMALLAH: Ministers insisted on Monday there was no vacancy at the top of the Palestinian Authority as they held their first cabinet meeting since Yasser Arafat left for life-saving treatment in France.

Arafat is still in charge:Minister


On a night when there would be no playoff baseball, there was a desperate need for any sort of show. Curt Schilling merely walking to the bullpen served the purpose.

Field of dreams turned out all wet


Two men falsely identified as deserters by the Indian army were released in a prisoner exchange with Pakistan, but their lives remain spoiled by the mistake.

Ordeal of 'Deserters' Who Didn't Desert


Syria and the Palestine Liberation Organisation opened a new chapter in their often turbulent ties today, saying they wanted to coordinate their efforts to make peace with Israel.

Syria, PLO mend ties, seek coordination on Israel


Larry Bowa was fired as manager of the Philadelphia Phillies yesterday, a day before the end of another disappointing year. The Phillies failed to reach the playoffs for the 11th straight season after coming

Baseball Notes


If Vice President Annette Lu is the Margaret Thatcher of the feisty island of Taiwan _ unyielding, immensely quotable and never taking any intellectual prisoners _ then easygoing Chen

Taiwan #39;s Formula Three


The plight of the litchi industry shows both the promise and the pitfalls of China's remarkable economic growth.

In China, Farmers' Labor Bears Too Much Fruit


Someone forgot to inform the US Olympic basketball team that it was sent to Athens to try to win a gold medal, not to embarrass its country.

US Dream Team: a nightmare


AP - St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Ray Lankford accepted a minor league assignment to Triple-A Memphis on Monday, nine days after leaving the team to consider his career options.

Lankford Accepts Minor League Assignment (AP)


Congress drafts two bills to implement the 9/11 Commission's recommendations. Critics say neither has adequate privacy or civil liberties safeguards, but the House version includes a litany of assaults on individuals' rights. By Ryan Singel.

House Bill Morphs 9/11 Advice


17 September 2004 -- United Nations #39; nuclear watchdog head Muhammad el-Baradei said today that the International Atomic Energy Agency has found no sign of nuclear-related activity at a site in Iran which several US officials have said may be tied to

El-Baradei: No Sign Of Nukes At Suspect Iranian Site


Reuters - China is threatening to veto a\revised U.S. draft resolution that would consider U.N.\sanctions against Sudan's oil industry if Khartoum does not\rein in marauding militia fighters in its Darfur region,\diplomats reported on Wednesday.

China Threatens to Veto UN Darfur Draft -Diplomats (Reuters)


Reuters - Peyton Manning threw four\touchdown passes and Edgerrin James ran for 204 yards with a\score, as the Indianapolis Colts rolled to a 41-10 victory over\the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.

Manning and James Lead Colts to Another Rout (Reuters)


AP - Heavily armed police commandos stormed a Jerusalem church compound and arrested nuclear whistle blower Mordechai Vanunu on Thursday, drawing harsh condemnation from the Anglican Church to which he belongs.

Israeli Nuclear Whistle Blower Arrested (AP)


Also: Congress OKs private spaceflight bill. News.com Extra

Why does Asia get all the cool stuff first?


ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- The Broncos emerged victorious on Sunday night, but came out of the 34-24 win anything but unscathed. Cornerback Lenny Walls could miss as many as four weeks due to the dislocated shoulder

DenverBroncos.com


Australia will go to the polls on October 9, Prime Minister John Howard has announced. Prime Minister John Howard #39;s conservative government, which was elected in 1996, is seeking a fourth

FACTBOX-How the Australian election process works


LONDON - The Iraqi Islamic militant group holding two French journalists hostage has demanded a \$5m (2.8m) ransom for their release, to be paid within 48 hours, as well as a set of hard-to-meet demands.

Iraqi militants demand \$5m to free French reporters


Brokerage giant Charles Schwab Corp. agreed yesterday to pay \$350,000 to end a Securities and Exchange Commission investigation into allegations that its brokers improperly allowed some

No Systematic  #39;Late Trading #39; Found


MOSCOW : Russia moved to bolster its role in the strategic energy sector as gas giant Gazprom said it would acquire state oil firm Rosneft, handing the government control of the world #39;s largest gas producer.

Russia to take control of gas giant Gazprom


MIAMICarnival Corp. #39;s fiscal third-quarter profit increased 40 per cent as higher ticket prices spurred strong revenue growth.

Carnival cruises to profit


The Herat governor replaced by Afghan President Hamid Karzai refuses his appointment to the cabinet.

'Rebel' governor rejects Karzai offer


ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Afghan President Hamid Karzai began a  visit to neighboring Pakistan on Monday to discuss cooperation  in the battle against Islamic militants ahead of his October  re-election bid.

Afghanistan's Karzai in Pakistan for Terror Talks


Reuters - Cazenove is getting serious in its\courtship with at least two U.S. investment banks and the\180-year old UK brokerage could tie the knot with one of its\suitors in a matter of weeks, sources close to the situation\said Monday.

Cazenove Gets Serious with U.S. Suitors (Reuters)


Grantsdale

It's Final: No WiFi In


Bolton ended Arsenal #39;s hopes of equaling its best-ever start to the English soccer season by rallying to hold the Premiership champion to a 2-2 draw.

Bolton Rallies to Deny Arsenal Record Start to English Season


Police arrested eight more suspected Islamic radicals Wednesday in the slaying of a Dutch filmmaker who criticized Muslim customs.

Eight Held in Dutch Filmmaker #39;s Slaying


NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Pakistan Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz  said on Wednesday he remained hopeful that peace could be  achieved with India, but progress on the bitter dispute over  Kashmir represented the key to better ties.

Pakistan's PM Says Peace with India Hinges on Kashmir


In December, D.C. developer Joe Horning Horning is to unveil the results of the \$40 million renovation project.

Drama Before Curtain Call at Theater


underpar writes  quot;According to this ZDNet.com article, Microsoft  #39;has launched a pilot program in which some visitors to the main Windows download page are being asked to let the software maker check to see whether their copy of the operating system is

Is That Pirated Software?


India #39;s hopes of an Olympic tennis gold medal evaporated last night when Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi lost 6-2, 6-3 to Germany #39;s Nicolas Kiefer and Rainer Schuettler in the doubles semi-finals.

Indian doubles pair crash out


Air Force Secretary James G. Roche asked a lobbyist for Boeing Co. to use the company #39;s Washington contacts to  quot;quash quot; a deputy undersecretary of defense and make him  quot;pay an appropriate

Air Force Pitch for Boeing Detailed


Computer Associates International channel partners Wednesday said the company #39;s settlement with federal prosecutors and the indictment of former CEO Sanjay Kumar was little more than the latest curiosity in the ongoing saga of CA #39;s legal woes.

CA Settles Accounting Scandal; Kumar Indicted


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Children's Place Retail Stores Inc.  <A HREF=

Children's Place to Buy Disney Stores


Congress yesterday cleared the way to keep access to the Internet largely free from taxes for the next three years, breaking a year-long deadlock.

Moratorium On Web Tax Advances


DENVER - A federal judge in Colorado has rejected a request from the woman accusing NBA star Kobe Bryant of rape to remain anonymous in her civil lawsuit.

Bryant #39;s Accuser Must Be Identified


Tiffany  amp; Co., the No. 1 US luxury jewelry retailer, said third-quarter earnings fell to \$20.8 million as sales declined in Japan, the company #39;s second-biggest market.

Tiffany 3rd-Qtr Profit Falls to \$20.8 Mln; Sales in Japan Drop


Verizon Communications Inc., the nation #39;s largest telephone company, announced yesterday it is digging up streets and stringing wire in six states, including Washington #39;s Maryland and Virginia

Verizon Betting on A Bundle


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sammy Sosa grabbed his 568th career  homer and Aramis Ramirez followed up with another third-inning  blast to guide the Chicago Cubs to an 8-3 win over the Houston  Astros in the National League (NL) Thursday.

NL Wrap: Sosa Hits 568th Homer, Cubs Eclipse Astros


The hip-hip duo took top honors Wednesday as the recording industry handed out its first awards for music sold through Internet-music services like Apple Computer Inc.'s iTunes.

OutKast Tops Digital-Music  Awards


Spanish police detain at least 15 suspected members of the armed Basque separatist group Eta.

Spanish raids net 15 Eta suspects


French regulators fined Vivendi Universal (EAUG.PA: Quote, Profile, Research) and its former CEO Jean-Marie Messier one million euros each on Tuesday for

Ex-Vivendi Boss Is Fined 1 Million Euros


Reuters - This week's talks between Japan and North\Korea show that efforts to hold another round of six-party\negotiations on the North's nuclear program are gathering pace,\South Korea's foreign minister said on Wednesday.

Seoul Sees Efforts Gathering Pace for N.Korea Talks (Reuters)


Pedro Martinez considered the choices: stay with the World Series champion Boston Red Sox, sign with the NL champion St. Louis Cardinals or become the cornerstone of a reconstruction project with the New York Mets.

Mets challenge intrigues Martinez


Even wearing an unflattering honey mustard- colored sweater, Team Canada players showed their true colors in their opening game of the World Cup of Hockey on Tuesday.

Roundup: Canada, Sweden post victories


Government questions about ''basic data integrity quot; derailed publication of a report raising safety concerns about arthritis drug Vioxx on the eve of a contentious congressional hearing, according to an e-mail exchange.

Vioxx study's publication derailed by FDA queries


Apple Computer stock hit a four-year high today following the release of a report from Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster, who expects Apple's stock price to hit \$100.

Apple stock jumps following analyst report


ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reportedly asked India to maintain a  quot;strategic restraint quot; following Sunday #39;s test firing of the AGNI II nuclear capable missile.

Pak urges restraint after India test fires AGNI II missile


McAfee has distanced itself from slurs against rival AV firm BitDefender contained in sponsored ad links on Google.com.\

News: McAfee in BitDefender virus slur spat


Reuters - Brandon Backe pitched seven innings\and clubbed a two-run homer, the first of his major league\career, to earn the Houston Astros an 11-5 triumph over the\Cincinnati Reds in the National League Monday.

NL Wrap: Backe Pitches, Hits Astros to Win Over Reds (Reuters)


Reuters - U.S. housing starts jumped a\larger-than-expected 6.4 percent in October to the busiest pace\since December as buyers took advantage of low mortgage rates,\a government report showed on Wednesday.

Housing Starts Surge 6.4 Pct. in October (Reuters)


Oil prices settled under \$41 for the first time since July Friday as dealers took profits on a widely expected move by the OPEC cartel to curb production in excess of its official output ceiling.

Oil Slumps Below \$41, Dealers Shrug OPEC Cut


Whisky distiller Glenmorangie said it was in talks with a number of potential suitors about a takeover. The firm, one of the largest remaining independent companies in the Scotch whisky industry, said it was

Glenmorangie in takeover talks


BRITISH-Iraqi aid worker Margaret Hassan is believed dead after a video surfaced showing a blind-folded woman being shot. Hassan, kidnapped last month in Baghdad, was said by her

Iraq aid worker feared dead


First they beat Liverpool 1-0, then they were held to a 2-2 draw by Manchester United and last weekend, they ended Arsenal #39;s 100 Premiership winning record, when they held their nerves to pull a shock 2-2 draw at Highbury, home of Arsenal.

Okocha Calls for Caution, As Allardyce Celebrates


An American soldier accused of deserting to North Korea in 1965 and now in hospital in Tokyo says he is willing to report to the US military in Japan to face charges.

Accused US deserter to report to military


CAIRO -- Egyptian authorities are investigating whether 17 suspected Al Qaeda members arrested while illegally entering Libya have any connection with last week's coordinated bombings at Sinai tourist resorts that killed 34 people, an Egyptian official said yesterday.

Egypt eyes possible link of 17 arrests to Sinai bombings


The handset maker is teaming up with a Swedish security company to offer encryption software for some of its phones.

Nokia to offer encryption tool


BT Group Plc (BT.L: Quote, Profile, Research) is committed to its existing dividend policy, Britain #39;s dominant fixed-line telecoms operator said on Monday, seeking to allay concerns its latest US purchase may come at the expense

UK #39;s BT Group says committed to dividend policy


AP - No buttons, signs or unusual dress will distinguish the protesters from the thousands who will line the inaugural parade route next month, but at a set time, they say they will demonstrate against President Bush  #151; by turning their backs on the chief executive.

Bush Detractors Plan Quiet Rejection (AP)


Russian oil giant Yukos has reportedly lost a court case against the sale of its main production unit.

Yukos 'fails to halt sell-off'


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Vanguard Group, the second-biggest  U.S. mutual fund firm, said on Thursday it has closed the \$1.4  billion Vanguard International Explorer Fund to thwart  speculative short-term investors and protect long-term  shareholders.

Vanguard Group Closes Int'l Explorer Fund


LUXEMBOURG Facing the prospect of its most serious legal setback ever, Microsoft is quietly making plans to radically alter the way it does business in Europe, including sharing confidential software code with competitors and selling Windows without its

Microsoft prepares for the worst in Europe case


British scientists are claiming a world first after finding a way to use hydrogen to fuel cars.

'Eco' friendly fuel breakthrough


AP - Thousands of Lebanese students and activists defied government warnings Friday and demonstrated against Syria's domination of their country.

Lebanese March Protests Syrian Domination (AP)


Ford plans to offer Sirius Satellite Radio in more of its cars and trucks and it will begin installing the systems at the factory.

Ford to Offer Sirius Radio as an Option in More Cars


Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has raised the stakes ahead of Wednesday night #39;s Carling Cup clash with Arsenal by claiming that Chelsea are now the team to beat.

Fergie dismisses Arsenal challenge


NEW YORK/HOUSTON (Reuters) - El Paso Corp. <A HREF=

El Paso Sees \$2.7 Bln Drop in Assets


Cambodia #39;s Prince Norodom Ranariddh left on Saturday for Beijing to implore his ailing father, the king, to reverse his decision to abdicate.

Cambodian prince to implore King not to step down


Exclusive A CD lock-in tech that only annoys P2P traders?

Macrovision CDS-300 version 7 beta


KUALA LUMPUR : Thousands of supporters turned out at the airport to give Malaysia #39;s ex-deputy prime minister Anwar Ibrahim a rousing send-off as he headed for surgery in Germany on his second full day of freedom after six years in jail.

Thousands turn out in big send-off for Malaysia #39;s Anwar


SHANGHAI (AP-CP) - World champion Michael Schumacher arrived in Shanghai on Wednesday, along with a host of other Formula One stars, saying he looked forward to evaluating the challenges of the city #39;s brand new circuit.

Formula One stars arrive in Shanghai


The European Union and the US must resolve differences over government aid to aircraft makers Airbus SAS and Boeing Co. and avoid taking the dispute to the World Trade Organization, French Finance Minister Nicolas Sarkozy said.

Airbus and Boeing Must Avoid WTO Case, France #39;s Sarkozy Says


All the hype and speculation came to an end Thursday when Steve Spurrier, once considered the leading man for the UF job, removed his name from the pool of candidates.

Spurrier withdraws from coach search


Handheld maker's revenue buoyed by strong sales of phones, other devices; after-hours shares fluctuate wildly.

PalmOne posts profit, exceeds estimates


King Norodom Sihanouk has urged Cambodians to choose a new king and avoid  quot;any chaos quot; in the impoverished country still struggling to recover from its Khmer Rouge past.

Cambodia king urges nation to find successor


NEW DELHI: Russia on Wednesday offered a strategic defence partnership to India and said it was willing to jointly develop hi-tech military hardware with its former Cold War ally on the eve of a visit by the Russian president.

Russia offers strategic partnership to India


US stocks gained after PeopleSoft Inc. agreed to be bought by Oracle Corp. and Honeywell International Inc. made a UK purchase, signaling that companies are optimistic about the economy #39;s prospects.

US Stocks Rise on Oracle #39;s PeopleSoft Purchase, Retail Sales


When it comes to international womens hockey, Canada and the United States are about as even as two teams can get. Why should the Four Nations Cup be any different?

Canada, US skate to 1-1 draw at Four Nations Cup


PORTLAND, Maine (Reuters) - Mergers and acquisitions have  played an enormous role in the U.S. economy during the past  several decades, but sometimes the results have been bad for  consumers.  Similarly, consolidation in the mutual fund  business has sometimes hurt fund investors.

Funds: Fund Mergers Can Hurt Investors


AP - Cornell researchers will watch five upstate New York dairy herds to learn about the problems and challenges of converting from conventional to organic farming.

Scientists to Study N.Y. Organic Farmers (AP)


At the very moment when the Red Sox desperately need someone slightly larger than life to rally around, they suddenly have the man for the job: Thrilling Schilling.

A Leg to Stand On


Toshiba, whose tiny hard drives power Apple #39;s hit iPod music players, announced that it has produced an 80GB model. The company said in a statement late on Monday that it will begin mass production in mid-2005

iPod to go 80GB?


AFP - British Airways said it planned to cancel almost 1,000 flights in the next three months.

British Airways cancels 966 flights in next three months (AFP)


AP - Revelations of bid-rigging within the insurance industry may lead Congress to a

Execs Tell Congress of More Insurance Woes (AP)


The data from Optus #39; parent company, Singapore Telecommunications (SingTel), showed Optus had 5.92 million mobile phone customers at the end of September, compared to 5.72 million at the end of June.

Optus adds 200,000 mobile users


The United Nations Security Council approved a rare resolution against an Arab state -- without naming names -- late Thursday. The resolution is intended to stop Syrian meddling in Lebanese politics and affairs.

UN Security Council Tries to Stop Syrian Meddling in Lebanon


BAGHDAD, Iraq - Relatives pleaded on Monday for the release of two Americans and a Briton as a deadline loomed for their beheading. In Baghdad, two Sunni Muslim clerics from a powerful conservative group were assassinated within hours of each other...

Hostage Deadline Looms; Iraq Clerics Slain


A French court rules a deportation order against a radical Muslim preacher is lawful and he may be expelled again.

France can deport Muslim cleric


Napster has extended its US music download store and subscription service to Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition-based Smartphones.

Napster beams songs to Windows smart phones


MOSCOW, October 11 (Itar-Tass) -- Moscows Arbitration Court on Monday rejected the oil major YUKOS statement challenging the judge who is hearing the Tax Ministrys 40.

Arbitration court rejects YUKOS statement challenging judge


UCLA held Heisman Trophy contender Matt Leinart in check, but Reggie Bush had two long touchdown runs, Ryan Killeen kicked five field goals and No.

No. 1 USC 29, UCLA 24


Falling cost of PC parts gives computer maker's third quarter a boost.

Component prices play key role in Dell earnings


AP - Dwyane Wade had career-highs with 37 points and 12 assists to again overshadow Shaquille O'Neal, and the Miami Heat improved to 3-0 for the second time in franchise history Saturday night with a 118-106 victory over the Washington Wizards.

Wade Overshadows Shaq As Heat Hit 3-0 (AP)


AP - Three shark attacks off the Texas coast in the past two months are unusual but don't mean there are more sharks than normal along the beach or that they are getting bolder, marine biologists and other experts say.

Experts Downplay Texas Shark Attacks (AP)


Foreign Minister Jan Petersen is attending the Ministerial Meeting of the Arctic Council in Iceland on 24 November. The most important item on the agenda is a discussion of the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment.

Ministerial Meeting of the Arctic Council in Reykjavik on 24 <b>...</b>


AP - Six men arrested following the slaying of filmmaker Theo van Gogh are no longer suspects in the killing, but still face charges for belonging to a terrorist group, authorities said Tuesday.

Dutch Clear Van Gogh Slay Suspects (AP)


With plenty of experience in disaster preparations, IT managers in Florida were ready to handle IT staffing issues during -- and after -- Hurricane Frances.

Fla. IT managers balance hurricane-related staffing needs


Seoul, South Korea-based Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. has begun shipping a 512Mbit GDDR2 memory device, one it claims is the most advanced graphics double-data-rate synchronous DRAM available.

Samsung Samples First 512Mbit GDDR3


When it comes to occupied Arab territory, Syria applies a brazen double standard: In Iraq, the Golan Heights, the West Bank and Gaza, every day of foreign occupation is seen as intolerable.

Lebanon #39;s lost sovereignty


WASHINGTON (CBS.MW) - The number of workers filing for state unemployment benefits plunged by 44,000 in the week ending Sept. 4 to 319,000, the Labor Department said Thursday.

Storms, late holiday contributed to largest drop in 3 years


AP - Michael Phelps, denied in his bid to win seven gold medals, picked up his second victory of the Athens Games by winning the 200-meter butterfly Tuesday night in Olympic-record time. Phelps fell just short of his own world record, holding off Takashi Yamamoto to win in 1 minute, 54.01 seconds. The hard-charging Japanese swimmer took silver in 1:54.56, while Great Britain's Stephen Parry won bronze in 1:55.22.

Michael Phelps Wins Second Gold Medal (AP)


Fans streamed out of the Meadowlands quite early the last time the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins played on Monday night. They had little reason to stay.

Jets, Dolphins reflect on memorable Monday night meeting


Fred Taylor ran for a 1-yard touchdown with 9 seconds left Sunday to push the Jaguars past the Titans, 15-12, moving to 3-0 despite scoring just 35 points this season.

Jaguars Surprise Again


Cingular Wireless, the largest US wireless phone company, said Wednesday it expects to report a profit and positive cash flow in 2005, one year earlier than planned, following its \$41 billion purchase of AT amp;T Wireless Services Inc.

Cingular Raises Profit Outlook


In the best combination of tobacco  #39;n #39; food news since Homer Simpson #39;s tomacco, today Altria Group (NYSE: MO) and its cheesy stepchild Kraft (NYSE: KFT) both upped their dividends.

How to Make Millions, Slowly


Ten  percent of soldiers injured in Iraq have died from their war wounds, the lowest casualty fatality rate ever, thanks in large part to technological advances and the deployment of surgical SWAT teams at the front lines, an analysis to be published today has found.

Iraq Combat Fatality Rate Lowest Ever


Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq won the toss and chose to field in the rescheduled Champions Trophy Pool C match against Kenya at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Wednesday after rain prevented play on Tuesday.

UPDATE 1-Pakistan win toss and field against Kenya


Reuters - DreamWorks Animation SKG\Inc. will find out this week if box office success can be\turned into Wall Street cash in a widely anticipated initial\public offering that could raise up to  #36;725 million.

DreamWorks Animation Set for IPO (Reuters)


MUMBAI: Here #39;s to one significant step that may translate into a giant leap for India #39;s moon mission. In a departure from the earlier plan, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has decided that its

ISRO plays new moony tune


The number of people in Europe surfing the Internet over a broadband connection reached 54.5 million in October 2004 -- an increased of 60 from 34.1 million a year earlier -- according to the latest report from Nielsen/NetRatings.

Nielsen Counts 54.5 Million Broadband Users in Europe


NAIROBI, Kenya -- The UN Security Council should impose sanctions on Sudan's government and enforce an arms embargo on pro-government Arab militias accused of ethnic cleansing in the country's Darfur region, a human rights group and aid agencies said yesterday.

UN is urged to enforce Sudan arms embargo, add sanctions


The chief executive of the Altria Group, Louis C. Camilleri, said yesterday that the company might split into two or three independent entities.

Altria Seeks Ways to Split Into 3 Units


Militants kill at least 30 in assault on Baghdad; US forces say 22 insurgents killed in Mosul. A Iraqi man mourns the death of his brother.

Insurgents strike Iraqi police station, mosque


The sequel delivers all the stuff that made the original the best-selling game of all time, and adds a couple of nice touches. By the end, though, you realize the new version is just a tuneup of the old. Lore Sjberg reviews The Sims 2.

Sims 2: Face Lift of the Original


In the shadow of Oracle, an upbeat Craig Conway seeks to sooth customers at PeopleSoft's annual convention.

PeopleSoft CEO vows to keep up the fight


Russian officials Wednesday shrugged off the decision by embattled oil giant Yukos to file for bankruptcy protection in the US, saying the move was politically motivated.

Yukos Turns to US Court in Last-Ditch Effort to Prevent Sell-Off


p2pnet.net News - IBMs PC business is up for grabs - and the new owners could be Chinese, says the New York Times. While IBM long ago ceded the lead in the personal computer market to Dell and Hewlett

Will IBM sell PC business?


A US federal appeals court ruled in favor of peer-to-peer software makers this week, stating that the companies behind the Grokster and Morpheus services are not liable for copyright infringement due to the actions of their users.

Peer-to-Peer Companies Win in Court


Kuala Lumpur (VNA) - Malaysia #39;s Animal Health Service on Tuesday reported that the country has discovered three more bird flu outbreaks in Kelantan State in the northeastern region.

New bird flu outbreaks in Malaysia


British Home Secretary David Blunkett was expected Sunday to reveal proposals for strict anti-terror measures, the BBC reported. The proposals were said to include anti-terror

British sec. to reveal terror proposals


Detroit Lions rookie running back Kevin Jones will be sidelined at least two weeks with a high right ankle sprain. Since the Lions have a bye this weekend, coach Steve Mariucci is hoping that Jones will just miss the October 10 game at Atlanta.

LIONS MUST DO WITHOUT JONES


Syracuse had lost its last two season openers. The Orange weren #39;t about to make it three in a row. Led by Hakim Warrick and Gerry McNamara, No.

No. 6 Syracuse 104, N. Colorado 54


We will soon get more singles off the net than from the shops - and Apple #39;s iPod is leading the way. James Hall reports. It #39;s Wednesday lunchtime on London #39;s half-empty Regent Street and the sleek new store

The download on digital


Microprocessor designer Arm Holdings buys US tech firm Artisan for about \$913m.

Arm Holdings buys US tech firm


A suicide attacker sped up to a US military convoy outside Fallujah and detonated an explosives-packed vehicle on Monday, killing seven Marines

Suicide bombing kills seven Marines in Iraq; Medical tests confirm <b>...</b>


JAKARTA (JP): Political observer Bungaran Antonius Simanjuntak urged president-elect Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Tuesday not to choose ministerial candidates from the New Order regime to avoidtarnishing his government.

Susilo told not to choose ministerial candidates from New Order <b>...</b>


ROME - The United States' new biometric system of border controls violates civil rights without delivering security, the head of the London-based civil liberties watchdog Privacy International warned Friday. The system involves a

Human rights group blasts new US border controls


BRAINTREE Coach: Bill O'Connell (second year). Last year's record: 6-5. Returning starters (7): Steve Arki, FB-LB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Joe Burbank, WR-DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Zach Clark, OL, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Andrew Dominguez, QB-DB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Pat McGrail, WR-DB, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Dave Wall, WR-DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Craig Whitney, OL-DL, 5-8, 190, Jr. Returning lettermen: Too many to ...

Bay State Carey capsules


Federal agents armed with search warrants conducted raids in three states Wednesday as part of a nationwide crackdown on the theft of copyrighted materials through the Internet, the Justice Department announced.

Feds launch Internet crime crackdown


Pedro Martinez briefly meets with Red Sox owner John Henry and president Larry Lucchino while passing through the airport.

Sox Meet With Martinez


AP - Howard Baker, the former Senate majority leader now serving as U.S. ambassador to Japan, was expected to leave intensive care Friday, four days after open heart surgery.

Baker Recovers From Open Heart Surgery (AP)


Shares of Motley Fool Hidden Gems selection Fresh Del Monte Produce (NYSE: FDP) are down 6 to \$25 after the company cut its full-year 2004 earnings forecast by almost 20.

Fresh Del Monte #39;s Bad Blip


WASHINGTON - The bipartisan National Commission on Energy Policy on Wednesday urged the US Congress to end a two-year stalemate and adopt a broad package of proposals addressing climate change, oil security, natural gas supplies and fuel efficiency in

Details of \$36 Billion Bipartisan US Energy Plan


Company targets software-as-service businesses with on demand database program.

Oracle broadens software hosting program


LONDON (Reuters) - British heavyweight fighter Danny  Williams has threatened to pull out of Saturday's World Boxing  Council title fight with champion Vitali Klitschko if he is  forced to shave his beard, British media reported.

Williams in Pull-Out Threat Over Beard Inspection


PSV Eindhoven was leading host ADO The Hague 2-0 Saturday when the Dutch league match was suspended in the 80th minute because of racist chants from the home fans.

Heerenveen beats Ajax


NEW YORK -- The stock of Ivax Corp., a maker of generic drugs, fell to a 52-week low Monday after the company said competitive pricing hurt its third-quarter results, causing them to fall short of Wall Street #39;s expectations.

Ivax down after earnings, revenue miss Wall Street views


NEW YORK - You #39;ve arrived at your travel destination only to find that your luggage has not. Certain actions can make a big difference in how quickly your bag is recovered or in what kind of reimbursement you #39;ll receive if it #39;s lost.

Money Tip Act quick when luggage is lost


A man with a knife broke into a high school dormitory and killed eight students in the deadliest of a series of knife attacks at Chinese schools in recent months, the government said Friday.

Man with knife kills 8, wounds 4 at central China high school


BOSTON, Dec. 14 - Most New Englanders are walking around with more cheer and about \$20 less in their pockets this holiday season. They are reliving the gift of their dreams - a Red Sox world championship highlight video on DVD.

Martnez Leaves Fans Betwixt, Between


AP - President Bush marked the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks Saturday by warning of continued danger to the United States and pledging victory over international terror.

Bush Pledges to Defeat Global Terrorism (AP)


At its annual user conference in Orlando, Sybase Inc. released a new version of its application development tool, outlined plans for an upgrade to its database software and planned to preview a system for tracking RFID data.

Sybase upgrades PowerBuilder, plots RFID move


AFP - Sri Lanka's World Cup-winning skipper Arjuna Ranatunga has congratulated his old foe Shane Warne on becoming the world's highest Test wicket-taker, but predicted his glory will be short-lived.

Murali will take back world record from Warne: Ranatunga (AFP)


After several days of speculation, North Korea said on Monday the 4-kilometer (2 miles) wide cloud spotted on satellite images by South Korea #39;s Yonhap agency was the result of a deliberate demolition of a mountain for a power plant.

North Korea explains powerful blast with mountain demolition


Henry Bibby was suddenly fired as Southern California's basketball coach Monday, just four games into his ninth season.

USC Fires Bibby


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The Bush administration has signaled  approval of growth in some Israeli settlements in the West Bank  in a policy change aimed at helping Prime Minister Ariel  Sharon, the New York Times said on Saturday.

US Changes West Bank Policy to Help Sharon: NYTimes


AFP - The Indiana Pacers signed forwards Tremaine Fowlkes and Britton Johnsen to fill gaps left by the suspensions of three players involved in a brawl at Detroit last week.

Suspension-hit Pacers sign two players (AFP)


Southwest Airlines (LUV:NYSE - news - research) Friday said it will offer more than \$100 for certain assets of ATA Holdings #39; (ATAHQ:Nasdaq - news - research)ATA Airlines in a forthcoming bankruptcy court auction.

Southwest Air Outlines Bid


The NBA declines to participate as Indiana teammates testify before an arbitrator in an attempt to get their brawl-related suspensions reduced.

Arbitrator Hears Pacers


Spanish police arrest 90 people, including 21 minors, in one of its largest ever operations on child pornography.

Minors held in Spanish porn swoop


Ruud van Nistelrooy scored all four goals as Manchester United demolished Sparta Prague 4-1 in Wednesday #39;s Champions League Group D match.

Superb Van Nistelrooy sinks Sparta


IMlogic has joined with leaders in the instant messaging and security community to create a new IM Threat Center. The center claims to be the first broad-based initiative to help IM users protect themselves against malware threats.

IM Threat Center Formed


In the off season, it is for most F1 and racing fans, a long time with no racing action. The Race of Champions gives the fans a little breath.

Kovalainen surprises at Race of Champions


(Sports Network) - Curt Schilling will try to become the first pitcher in the major leagues to reach 19 wins, as he heads to the mound for the Boston Red Sox in the second test of a four-game series against the Seattle Mariners.

SportsNetwork Game Preview


Stock arrows point higher as retail sales Friday total more than \$8 billion. But Wal-Mart #39;s November sales stumble. After listless holiday trading last week, buyers are back in force this morning.

Black Friday pushes market into green


The UN Security Council agrees to reduce by a third its peacekeepers on the divided island of Cyprus.

UN cuts Cyprus peacekeepers


UN forces have been deployed to restore calm in Liberia #39;s capital of Monrovia where sectarian violence sparked widespread looting and destruction.

UN forces patrol Monrovia, Liberia


Doubled-up processors were the big news at this year?s Intel Developer Forum. They boost performance without frying your chips ? and are coming your way soon.

Intel dual-core chips are cool


Greg Maddux was on top of his game and he even chipped in at the plate as he and the Cubs won the opener of a three-game series against the Expos, 5-2, on

Batterymates lift Cubs


Apple computer is facing an inquiry by the Office of Fair Trading after it was criticised for selling music downloads to UK customers at higher prices than in other European countries.

Apple criticised for download costs


NEW YORK (Reuters) - DVD recorders are getting cheaper and  easier to use, but that may not be enough to spark demand for  the sluggish selling devices.

PluggedIn: DVD Lagging TV in Recorders Race


With the third  quot;ZY-2 quot; research satellite successfully entering into orbit on Saturday morning, China has accomplished the launch of its 40th satellite since October 1996.

Satellite launch the fortieth in past 8 years


Oil futures prices have jumped 5 percent higher, climbing above \$44 a barrel in the United States Wednesday after US government data showed a slight decline in crude and heating oil supplies as colder weather in the Northeast drove up

Cold sends oil price above \$44


MediaCoat unlocks the potential for placing targeted advertising messages that are certain to be noticed on the play side of motion picture, music, gaming and software discs.

First Optical Discs with Play Side Messaging


BAGHDAD -- US Marines and Iraqi troops raided several mosques in resistance strongholds west of Fallujah yesterday, in a broad offensive just days before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

US, Iraqi troops target resistance in Sunni Triangle


Mike Piazza wants the New York Mets to get him out of a situation that #39;s been difficult to deal with. For much of this season, he didn #39;t know whether he #39;d be at catcher or first

Piazza wants Mets to declare his position


PC World - Calls to 13 other countries will be blocked to thwart auto-dialer software.

Ireland Cracks Down on Internet Scams (PC World)


With Tim Henman and Greg Rusedski still Great Britain #39;s leading players by some distance, even though Rusedski is currently No80 in the world, it might be argued that Jeremy Bates #39;s role as Davis Cup captain is less taxing than that of the official who

Fit Rusedski could prove key


Once is a fluke. Twice is a coincidence. A third time would be a trend, and that's something St. John's Prep coach Jim O'Leary desperately wants to avoid after his Eagles were shut out for the second game in a row in a 40-0 loss to Marshfield yesterday.

Rams subdue Prep


USATODAY.com - Oracle (ORCL) on Tuesday posted a 16 jump in quarterly earnings, surpassing analyst estimates, despite listless sales in an area it hopes to buttress by buying rival PeopleSoft (PSFT).

Oracle surpasses earnings expectations (USATODAY.com)


Patrick Vieira believes Arsenal are a more mature outfit as a result of the European heartbreak they have suffered over recent seasons.

Arsenal have  #39;grown up #39;


The military reported the deaths of a U.S. soldier and six Iraqi civilians today, a day after Iraqi officials announced the deadliest ambush of the insurgency.

New Violence Flares in Iraq, After Executions Leave 50 Dead


The Americans won a couple of better-ball matches and halved another before losing to the most unheralded European team in the final match Saturday morning.

Americans Wake Up on Day 2 of Ryder Cup


After her first match in five months, former world No. 1 Kim Clijsters was reassured Thursday her left wrist could stand up to top competition again and set her sights on a new test

Clijsters looking forward to new test in quarters


Perhaps the most heat-tolerant complex organism on Earth, Pompeii worms burrow into the sides of hydrothermal vents found deep in the Pacific Ocean. Scientists aim to learn how the worms survive their hellish home.

Pompeii Worms: Hottest Bodies on Earth?


AP - Johan Santana won his 11th straight start with another dominant performance, striking out a career high 14 over eight shutout innings for the Minnesota Twins in a 5-1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday.

Johan Santana, Twins Defeat Orioles 5-1 (AP)


Editors note. This story was first reported on www.postindependent.com. For more coverage, please read Sundays Post Indpendent.

Roan report released


BASRA, Iraq (Reuters) - A pipeline exploded in Iraq's south  Rumaila oil field on Sunday, days after several pipelines in  the same area were sabotaged, a Reuters witness said.

Pipeline Explodes in Iraq's South Rumaila Field


John Lucas III scored 22 points, Joey Graham added 16 and No. 6 Oklahoma State pulled away in the second half to beat Arkansas-Little Rock 90-65 Tuesday night.

Lucas sparks Oklahoma State


Jacques Rogge, President of the International Olympic Committee, has called for an end to the  quot;bickering quot; between the five cities seeking to host the 2012 Games.

IOC chief calls on bidding cities stop  quot;Bickering quot;


PC World - Hard-drive based digital audio player will be available by the end of the year.

BenQ Readies IPod Rival (PC World)


The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in the United States increased by 0.1 percent in August following a drop of 0.1 percent in the previous month, the Labor Department reported on Thursday.

US consumer prices up 0.1 percent in August


It will be a Saturday afternoon soap opera, with the man the Giants vowed to have and to hold and the one they left at the altar crossing paths on the floor of Giants Stadium.

Comparisons inevitable in draft-day rematch


AFP - The United States congratulated Cambodia's new king, Norodom Sihamoni, following his coronation but said it was unsure he could restore political stability in the Southeast Asian nation.

US congratulates new Cambodian king (AFP)


LONDON (Reuters) - Royal Dutch/Shell Group agreed on  Tuesday to finalized settlements with U.S. and UK regulators  which will cost the oil giant \$150.7 million over its  mis-statement of proven oil reserves.

Shell Settles with SEC, UK for \$151 Mln


Auburn caught Oklahoma in The Associated Press Top 25 on Sunday, creating a tie for second place behind No. 1 Southern California.

Auburn and Oklahoma tied for No. 2


While on most late fall days the clouds obscure new growth, the meters on the mountain don #39;t lie: Mount St. Helens continues to build a new mountaintop at a rapid rate.

St. Helens is fast growing its new top


Shipments of Apple Computer's Xserve soared in the third quarter of 2004 by 119 over the same period last year, according to market research firm Gartner Dataquest.

Xserve shipments soar 119; trend likely to continue


Sci/Tech News, New York - British tycoon Richard Branson #39;s Virgin Group said on Monday it was jumping into the market for online music, with a  quot;Digital Megastore quot; offering US customers song downloads for 99 cents.

Sci/Tech ; Battle to control Internet songs heats up


Discrete device turns off televisions, creating a little peace and quiet. Until the yelling starts.

Keychain clicker kills TVs


JPMorgan Chase  amp; Co. and Cazenove Group PLC said Friday they were launching a joint venture to combine their investment banking services for British customers.

JPMorgan, Cazenove Announce Joint Venture


PSA Peugeot Citroen China #39;s unit is expected to miss its full-year car sales target due to intense competition and slumping sales.

PSA Peugeot Citroen to fall short of sales target in China


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Verizon Communications Inc. <A HREF=

Verizon, Qwest Ask Court to Block FCC


NORTH Koreas solemn return of the remains of a 13-year-old Japanese girl they kidnapped decades ago have proved to be a cruel trick, a furious Japan said yesterday.

Fury in Japan as ashes found not to be remains of kidnapped girl


AP - Infielder Jose Hernandez and the Cleveland Indians agreed to a  #36;1.8 million, one-year contract Monday.

Hernandez, Indians Agree to One-Year Deal (AP)


More than 100 people have been arrested following the US law enforcement agencies #39; latest offensive against Internet related crime.

Feds launches new offensive against Internet crime


Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin have unveiled Google Print, a tech service that will let users view book excerpts in the standard Google Web-page search results.

Google Print: Google #39;s Answer to A9.com?


On a balmy September summer evening at Miller Park, Barry Bonds, arguably the best player there ever was, had a chance to go where only two men in baseball history had gone before.

Still plenty, way too many, good seats available for Bonds


Two cartoon characters named Neve and Gliz, representing a ball of snow and block of ice, are the mascot for the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics.

Snow and ice: Olympic mascot for Turin Olympics


If Andre Carter never makes it as a standout in pass coverage, he will excel as a diplomat. Carter, the 49ers #39; best pure pass rusher, neatly sidestepped the

Carter left on TE on key play


Those of you who are waiting in anticipation of who WilliamsF1 will reveal as partner to Mark Webber in 2005, can cross former champion Mika Hakkinen of your list, for the two-time world champion has been confirmed as a Mercedes driver in the 2005 DT.

Official: Hakkinen to race in DTM in 2005


More than 98 percent of hospitals in the United States are reporting quality-of-care data for treating heart attack, heart failure and pneumonia, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid said yesterday.

Most Hospitals Posting Data on Care


US factory growth stayed strong in September, according to reports on Friday, while construction spending hit a record high in August for a seventh month in a row, showing the economy #39;s expansion remains solid.

Factory, Construction Data Show Growth


(Sports Network) - The Montreal Expos will get their chance to climb out of the cellar in the National League East this week, as they begin a three-game series against the New York Mets Tuesday at Olympic Stadium.

Montreal Expos Team Report - September 20


For the third straight quarter, shipments of handheld devices fell as some prominent vendors decided to pull back from the market, according to research firm IDC.

IDC sees continuing decline in PDA market


Investor's Business Daily - Despite a year of negative headlines, the investing public doesn't understand the mutual fund scandal, couldn't care less and hasn't lost much confidence in the fund families where they invest, says a new study released this week.

Some Firms Avoid Dent From Scandal (Investor's Business Daily)


AP - Three people on trial for illegally sending junk e-mail inundated America Online customers with millions of messages touting penny stocks and

Defendants Accused of Sending Spam (AP)


Maurice Wilkins, who shared a Nobel Prize for the discovery of DNA #39;s structure, died yesterday aged 87. Wilkins was still a staff member at King #39;s College London, where he had worked since 1946.

Maurice Wilkins:


SAN FRANCISCO - Intel Corp. and the PC industry are about to go through a major change in the way client computers are designed, built and marketed, said Intel President and Chief Operating Officer Paul Otellini during his introductory address Tuesday at the Fall Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco.

IDF: Parallel processing coming to a desktop near you


Sprint will provide an outsourced VoIP telephone service to Mediacom Communications, the eighth largest cable operator in the US serving 2.7 million homes in 23 states.

Sprint Signs Cable VoIP Partnership with Mediacom


Has the economy #39;s  #39;soft patch #39; passed? Is inflation about to pop? The bond market doesn #39;t think so. By Mark Gongloff, CNN/Money senior writer.

Second-guessing the Fed


Reuters - The reigning king of the\television DVD is ready to re-enter the market.

Chappelle DVD Set for June Release Via Sony (Reuters)


AP - Making the most of second chances is second nature to Wisconsin senior Scott Starks.

Badgers' Starks Goes From Goat to Hero (AP)


Reuters - West Africa may lose up to a quarter\of its grain harvest this year if the worst locust infestation\for 15 years is not brought under control, regional agriculture\experts warned.

Locusts Menace Quarter of West Africa Crops-Experts (Reuters)


Reuters - Hewlett-Packard Co.  will be\under pressure to sell its personal computer business after\IBM's decision to sell its PC operations to China's top PC\manufacturer, but analysts said the No. 2 computer maker would\hold on to its  #36;25 billion PC division for now.

HP Pressured to Sell PC Business After IBM Deal (Reuters)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks fell on Thursday morning  after China's central bank said it was raising interest rates  for the first time in nine years, fueling concerns that global  economic growth may slow.

Stocks Fall After China Raises Rates


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Drug maker Merck   Co. Inc. <A HREF=

Dow Knocked Lower by Merck's Drug Recall


After re-entering the earth #39;s atmosphere, Genesis plunged straight down into the ground, leaving no chance for the helicopters that were supposed to snatch it from the air.

Faulty Switch Installation Blamed for NASA Genesis Crash


The results of the Olympic gymnastics all-around final will not change, leaving Paul Hamm of the United States with the sole gold medal.

Hamm Ruling Stands, but Ire at Judges Rises


CHICAGO/SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Shares of Google Inc. hit  a new high on Monday, giving the Web search leader a bigger  market value than rival Yahoo Inc., as traders who had shorted  the stock scrambled to buy back scarce shares after Google's  better-than-expected quarterly results last week.

Google's Value Tops Yahoo


October 13, 2004 - Electronic Arts announced that Ultima Online: Samurai Empire went gold today. The highly-anticipated expansion pack for Ultima Online is on schedule to release on November 2, 2004.

Ultima Online: Samurai Empire is Golden


Arsenals Thierry Henry today missed out on the European Footballer of the Year award as Andriy Shevchenko took the honour. AC Milan frontman Shevchenko held off competition from Barcelona pair Deco and

Shevchenko Crowned as Europe #39;s Finest


Bolton manager Sam Allardyce believes Adrian Mutu has the ability to bounce back at the top level. The Chelsea striker has been banned for seven months after failing a drugs test.

Allardyce backs Mutu to return


An Israeli man has been shot dead in a drive-by shooting in the northern West Bank, security officials say.

Israeli killed in W Bank shooting


Marvel Enterprises has filed suit against NCsoft and Cryptic Studios, claiming that the companies violated Marvel #39;s trademark characters in the MMORPG City of Heroes.

Marvel Sues Over City of Heroes


Singer Robbie Williams #39; greatest-hits album will soon be released in UK music stores, and some phone shops, pre-loaded on a memory card.

Williams #39; CD to be sold on memory card


Wipro, one of India's leading software exporters, reports a 65 jump in profits, driven by European demand and a rise in outsourcing.

India's Wipro sees profits surge


Kodak has won a legal battle over Java that could see Sun landed with a \$1bn legal bill. According to ruling made by a court in Rochester, New York, Sun has infringed a patent Kodak bought from Wang Laboratories

Kodak wins \$1bn fight over Sun #39;s Java


Japan #39;s northern prefecture of Niigata, struck on Saturday by the country #39;s deadliest temblor since 1995, was today rocked by fresh earthquakes strong enough to sway buildings in Tokyo.

New Quakes Rock Japan #39;s Niigata; Tokyo Buildings Sway (Update2)


AP - The Bush administration, cool to U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan as he copes with calls for his resignation, has a track record of trying to oust heads of U.N. agencies.

White House Takes Cool Stance Toward Annan (AP)


Rates on 30-year and 15-year mortgages fell this week to the lowest levels seen in six months, good news for people wanting to buy a home or refinance.

Mortgage rates continue to fall


A Trojan program called Skulls has appeared that disables many of the functions of Internet-enabled cell phones using the operating system from the Symbian Ltd.

Trojan begins climbing aboard some smart phones


NEW ORLEANS - Tampa Bay coach Jon Gruden may not have realized it, but he had the perfect four-leaf clover for his teams 0-4 start as it walked into the Louisiana Superdome Sunday morning.

Clayton enjoys homecoming


Vodafone, the world #39;s largest mobile phone company, today gave shareholders an early Christmas present by doubling its half-year dividend to 1.91p and extending a share buy-back programme.

Vodafone doubles dividend


Description: Iraq #39;s top Shiite cleric, Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, is reportedly successful in reaching a peace to end three weeks of violence between allied US and Iraqi government troops and militiamen loyal to cleric Muqtada al-Sadr.

Clerics Said to Reach Najaf Peace Deal


Eagles can be thrown on, but this is Kyle Boller and the Ravens we are talking about. He #39;d be a great start, but losing Jonathan Ogden is a pretty big blow.

Start  #39;em or Sit  #39;em: Ravens-Eagles


Web sites promising to find the best travel deals have online travel agents wondering if they have a new friend or enemy. For consumers, however, choices are rising

Livewire: Travel Search Sites Look for Bargains on Web


Don Imus says Howard Stern #39;s defection to satellite radio is not surprising but adds that the bad boy of broadcasting may have to dodge death rays from the FCC.

Imus: FCC may still hound Howard