ALEX FERGUSON will take up the one-year rolling option on his contract and continue as Manchester United boss next season. Ferguson celebrates 18 years in charge at Old Trafford in the Manchester derby tomorrow.

18 years and still rollin #39;


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The dollar rebounded strongly on  Thursday after the release of data showing the U.S. current  account was narrower in the third quarter than many had feared,  triggering a relief rally for the beleaguered U.S. currency.

Economic Data Triggers Huge Dollar Rally


Chile's Supreme Court strips Augusto Pinochet of immunity, paving the way for a possible trial on human rights abuses.

Pinochet loses immunity


Reuters - Opposition activists in Bangladesh attacked railway stations and battled police across the country on Tuesday on the first day of a two-day strike called to protest against a deadly grenade attack at the weekend.

Over 80 hurt on first day of Bangladesh strike (Reuters)


Reuters - An Iraqi militant group has threatened to\behead a Turkish hostage within three days unless the United\States releases all Iraqi prisoners and Turkish nationals leave\Iraq, Al Arabiya television said on Monday.

Iraq Militants Threaten to Behead Turk Hostage -TV (Reuters)


South Africa #39;s Richard Sterne claimed his first European Tour title with a two-shot victory at the Madrid Open. Needing a top-20 finish to save his tour card, the 23-year-old carded a final-round 65 to finish on 18 under par and earn a two-year exemption.

Sterne saves card with Madrid win


Fed chief says quick fix for social safety net programs vital to avoid more painful steps later. JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. (Reuters) - Rising pressure on US finances from an aging population make it vital to quickly

Age to strain US finances-Greenspan


HONG KONG (Reuters) - China has invited four newly elected  pro-democracy lawmakers for talks in a conciliatory gesture  after weekend legislative elections, the South China Morning  Post reported on Thursday.

China Invites Moderate Democrats to Meetings -Paper


com November 1, 2004, 8:03 AM PT. This fourth priority #39;s main focus has been enterprise directories as organizations spawn projects around identity infrastructure.

CA sets Ingres database free


The Metropolitan Museum's show reveals the portraitist's bountiful range. No doubt about it, he was and remains one of our greatest American painters.

Gilbert Stuart, a Capturer of Presidents and Transmitter of History


BEIJING, Nov. 22 (Xinhuaent) -- China #39;s first private lender, Minsheng Bank, has won regulatory approval to sell a 4.55 percent stake to a Singapore government firm, clearing the final hurdle for the investment in a fast-opening financial arena.

Minsheng sells stake to Temasek


Philippe Camus, co-CEO of EADS, said the A350 was part of a long-term strategy for Airbus, taking both companies #39; needs and technological progress into account.

Europe ; Airbus Hopes for 50 Jet Orders by June


Apple has introduced two new Jam Packs for its popular GarageBand consumer music creation software today. These two new packs offer new instruments and loops for different genres.

Apple introduces two new Garageband Jam Packs


The Fine Print: The following comments are owned by whoever posted them. We are not responsible for them in any way. It #39;s like a free ride when you #39;ve already paid.

GTA: San Andreas Leaked


Consumer electronics giant Sony Corporation has reversed its policy and now says that it will support the popular MP3 file format for some of its portable music players.

Sony does u-turn for MP3 support


Altria Group Inc., the parent company of cigarette maker Philip Morris and Kraft Foods Inc., may split into three separate units to improve shareholder value, according to Chief Executive Louis Camilleri.

Altria considers breakup


EAGLE, Colo. (CBS) Justice, a woman #39;s honor, and an NBA superstar #39;s career and freedom. There is much at stake as jury selection begins Friday in the rape trial of Kobe Bryant.

Kobe Trial Begins


AP - Appearance money is not allowed on the PGA Tour, but there were murmurs when the field at the 84 Lumber Classic in Pennsylvania originally included Vijay Singh and Tiger Woods, a rare 1-2 punch in a fall tournament.

Singh, Woods Have Ties to 84 Lumber (AP)


Belgium #39;s Justine Henin-Hardenne will not play for the rest of the year in an attempt to recover from exhaustion. The former world No1 has not competed since losing in the fourth round of the US Open to Nadia

Henin calls a halt to exhausting year


Michael Howard accuses Tony Blair of squandering the chance to lead efforts against climate change.

'UK must lead on climate change'


Athens, Greece (Sports Network) - The United States has grabbed a 49-44 lead over Lithuania at the half of their bronze medal game at the Olympics.

Halftime: US leads Lithuania in bronze medal game


Microsoft has started recruiting testers for the first beta of Windows Server 2003 R2, an update to Windows Server that the vendor plans to ship in October next year.

Microsoft Readies Windows Server 2003 Update


Aggadan barrels through the pack on the homestretch to seize the Challedo Stakes at Pimilico on Saturday.

Aggadan Surges to Win


The militant Iraqi group which last week released two Italian hostages is bartering with the terrorists holding British hostage Ken Bigley in order to release him for a ransom.

Italian hostage group barters for Bigleys release


India claim three quick wickets as Australia reach 103-3 at lunch on day one of the third Test.

India on top after early strikes


MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia said on Friday it would go ahead  with an auction to sell the key asset of embattled oil company  YUKOS despite a U.S. bankruptcy court decision to block it for  several days.

Russia to Hold YUKOS Auction


Indonesian investigators said Friday that they believed Thursday morning #39;s bombing of the Australian Embassy, which killed nine people, was carried out by three

3 Fugitive Muslim Militants Suspected in Jakarta Attack


Novell's SuSE software joins Red Hat as server option. Also: Is AMD in Dell's future?

Dell lineups gain SuSE Linux, 17-inch notebook


NEW YORK - The judge presiding over a massive pension suit against IBM, which could cost the company more than \$6.5 billion, agreed Friday to a short delay while settlement talks continue.

IBM holds settlement talks in pension case


Australian Stuart Appleby, who was the joint second-round leader, returned a two-over 74 to drop to third at three-under while American Chris DiMarco moved into fourth with a round of 69.

Sports ; Westwood Closes in on First Title of 2004


NEW YORK, October 5 (newratings.com) - BHP Billiton Limited (BHP.NYS), the world #39;s largest mining company, has announced its plans to return up to A\$1.

BHP Billiton launches A\$1.5 bn share buyback programme


Forbes.com - In late September 110 entrepreneurs and venture capitalists from 17 cities flew in for Jerusalem Venture Partners' annual meeting, at the Cafe Gray overlooking Manhattan's Central Park. Businesspeople from Amsterdam, Milan and Singapore sat across from folks from Tel Aviv, Tokyo and Zurich as they sipped coffee and listened to a lecture about the perils and opportunities of China's tech markets. Between presentations JVP founder Erel Margalit darted from table to table shaking hands, bowing and kissing cheeks, interrupting conversations held in Chinese, Hebrew and heavily accented English.

The Global Startup (Forbes.com)


Mark Riley, Seven #39;s Chief Political Reporter: Good morning Mr Howard, welcome back to the program. John Howard, Prime Minister of Australia: Morning, Mark.

Prime Minister John Howard


Former Germany coach Rudi Voeller took charge of AS Roma on Tuesday following the resignation of Cesare Prandelli. Voeller flew into Rome and immediately assumed control of the Serie A team #39;s training session.

UPDATE 1-Voeller takes charge at Roma


TV network CBS fights the record \$500,000 fine imposed following Janet Jackson's breast-baring incident.

Network fighting huge Janet fine


Shares of wireless game maker Jamdat Mobile Inc. (JMDT.O: Quote, Profile, Research) rose as much as 45 percent on Wednesday in their first trading day, boosted by investors betting

Jamdat shares up 45 percent in first day of trade


Planet-building is dusty work, and now two space telescopes have captured images of cosmic construction materials: disks of dust circling stars about the same size as our sun.

Telescopes capture planets in the making


AP - Iran is ready to provide

Iran Ready to Provide Nuke 'Guarantees' (AP)


THE variation in the net profit after tax figure between unaudited and audited results of companies should not exceed 10 per cent or Rs 10 lakh, whichever is higher.

Audited, unaudited results  Cap on variation in net profit <b>...</b>


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. consumer confidence sank in  August while Chicago-area business activity slowed, according  to reports on Tuesday that added to worries the economy's patch  of sluggish growth may last beyond the summer.

Consumers Anxious About Lack of Hiring


Reuters - Barry Bonds hit his third home\run in two days to help the San Francisco Giants earn a split\of their doubleheader with a 14-4 win over the Montreal Expos\on Wednesday.

NL Wrap: Bonds Homers Again as Giants Rout Expos (Reuters)


Volkswagen demanded a two-year wage freeze for the 170,000-strong workforce at Europe #39;s biggest car maker yesterday, provoking union warnings of imminent conflict at key pay and conditions negotiations.

Volkswagen rules out pay rises for two years


BEIJING -- Police have detained a man accused of slashing as many as nine boys to death as they slept in their high school dormitory in central China, state media reported today.

In China, police detain man accused of killing up to 9 boys


AFP - Hungary's ruling Socialist Party approved two alternative candidates to replace outgoing prime minister Peter Medgyessy who resigned after a row with his liberal coalition partners.

Hungarian Socialists choose alternatives as new prime minister (AFP)


Factory revenue in the worldwide server market grew at 6.9 percent year over year to 11.5 billion US dollars in the second quarter of 2004, according to a report released Friday by IDC.

Global server market continues to grow


SRINAGAR: Unknown gunmen shot at and injured Altaf Ahmad Shah, son-in-law of hardline pro-Pakistan separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, inside a local mosque in the outskirts of Srvvinagar on Monday.

Violence, protests cripple Valley


AT least 13 people were killed and about 60 injured when a car bomb exploded outside the emergency unit of one of Baghdad #39;s main hospitals, medical officials said today.

13 killed in hospital car bomb


Not following last season #39;s 5-to-7 finish by Notre Dame. Not after a deflating season-opening loss to Brigham Young. Not when the Irish trailed 9-to-zero at halftime to Michigan.

Willingham never doubted Irish could beat Michigan


Pakistani forces following up on a raid that killed a top al-Qaida fugitive arrested four more suspected extremists Monday, while the US Embassy warned that security constraints

Pakistanis Arrest More Militant Suspects


SOFTWARE maker Adobe has upgraded its flagship desktop publishing products, giving powerful new features to not only the authors of electronic documents but also their recipients.

Adobe beefs up Acrobat


There was once an It gal of tennis who graced the national magazine covers, drawing so much attention from the paparazzi and fashionistas that she made her peers as jealous as lottery losers.

How an It girl lost her groove, then found her game


Reuters - Oracle Corp.  said it would\report preliminary results of its  #36;8.8 billion hostile tender\offer for PeopleSoft  as soon as practicable after 1\a.m. EST Saturday.

Oracle to Issue Tender Results Saturday (Reuters)


D.C. Council Chair Linda Cropp has filed an eleventh-hour proposal that would significantly alter a plan to build a baseball stadium.

Cropp Wants Changes


The Guinness Book of Records has officially recognised the world speed record set by Nasa #39;s X-43A hypersonic aircraft earlier this year.

Guinness recognises jet record


Reuters - Web search leader Google Inc.\, in its first earnings report as a publicly held\company, on Thursday posted quarterly net income and revenue\that more than doubled on strong Web search advertising.

Google Profit Rises as Sales Double (Reuters)


When Russian President Vladimir Putin put the finishing touches on his country #39;s ratification of the Kyoto Protocol on Friday, reducing greenhouse gas emissions also moved one notch higher on Japan #39;s policy agenda.

Japan now has to get serious about greenhouse gases


The Food and Drug Administration is unlikely to sanction Boston Scientific Corp. after reviewing its handling of safety recalls of its new cardiac stent system, an agency official said yesterday.

Boston Scientific to skirt sanctions


Reuters - Wall Street since midsummer has\weathered three hurricanes, a heightened insurgency in Iraq, a\mud-slinging presidential campaign, a soft patch in the\economy, two Fed rate hikes and a tense period of attack alerts\surrounding the national political conventions.

Storm-Tested Wall Street Set for Earnings (Reuters)


Economic size wields major influence over how well a nation does at the Olympics.

Winners With Wallets


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Clothing retailer Gap Inc. <A HREF=

Gap Third-Quarter Earnings Tick Up 1 Pct


Microsoft has launched a beta version of an MSN search engine designed to compete directly with Google. MSN Search lets users search through more than 5 billion documents, Microsoft says.

MSN Launches Search Beta


October 07, 2004 - Nintendo began its NDS press conference in Japan yesterday with a lengthy statement from company head Satoru Iwata.

Nintendo President Iwata Speaks


Lamb, who was in spring training with the Yankees, went 4-for-5, including his career-high 10th homer, and drove in four runs as the surging Astros beat the Pirates, 10-5, yesterday at Minute Maid Field for their ninth win in a row.

Lamb helping to lead Astros #39; charge


A sharp drop in oil prices gave Wall Street a modest relief rally yesterday, with stocks edging higher on news that oil production had soared during the month of September.

Drop in oil prices spurs rally in stocks


Barely hours after home users started securing their PCs with a key update for Windows XP, security experts have found ways around it.

Holes found in Windows XP update


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stock futures signaled a slightly  higher open for stocks on Monday as investors welcomed an  easing of oil prices from a record high near \$50 a barrel last  week.

Wall Street Set to Open Slightly Higher


AFP - Democrat John Kerry has mounted a furious counter-attack against George W. Bush on national security, seeking to regain momentum in their heated presidential race two weeks before polling day.

Kerry mounts furious counter-offensive on security (AFP)


Half-Life 2 Goes Gold (PC) Ladies and gents it #39;s official! Half-Life 2 goes gold and expected November 16! Almost six years to the date that Half-Life went gold, VUGames confirms that Valve #39;s Half-Life 2 has

FilePlanet Daily Download


BASEBALL Arizona (NL): Named Bob Gebhard assistant general manager, Mike Aldrete hitting coach, Carlos Tosca third base coach, and Brett Butler first base coach. Chicago (AL): Signed P Kevin Walker. Cleveland (AL): Signed P Bob Wickman. Los Angeles (NL): Signed manager Jim Tracy to a two-year contract extension. Minnesota (AL): Signed C Mike Redmond to a two-year contract. Pittsburgh (NL): ...

Transactions


The world #39;s largest automaker launched negotiations with European employees after it unveiled the cost-cutting plans in October, triggering days of walkouts at GM #39;s German plants.

GM Europe To Cut 12,000 Jobs in Deal


Stay awake for long enough tonight and you will witness one of the sky #39;s most amazing natural phenomena - a total lunar eclipse.

Lunar eclipse due tonight


Chinese carmaker Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. (SAIC) has played down reports that it is about to sign a deal for a joint venture with MG Rover, the Times newspaper reports.

China #39;s SAIC cool on early Rover deal talk


ATLANTA -- Low-end server technology is racing ahead of the ability of many data centers to keep the increasingly dense and fast systems cool, a problem that's stopping some IT managers from using the new machines.

Hot servers not so cool for data center managers


Reuters - Gap Inc. (GPS.N), the largest U.S.\specialty apparel retailer, on Thursday reported a 7 percent\decline in quarterly profit, meeting lowered forecasts, after\summer clearance sales drew surprisingly small crowds.

Gap Profit Off, Sees More Store Closings (Reuters)


SPACE.com - A group of European-led \  astronomers has made a photograph of what appears to be a planet orbiting another \  star. If so, it would be the first confirmed picture of a world beyond our solar \  system.

Likely First Photo of Planet Beyond the Solar System (SPACE.com)


PITTSBURGH - Paleontologists are hailing the discovery by a first-year geology student of a new species of amphibian, a salamander-like creature that lived 300 million years ago.

Fantastic fossil find by geology student


DUBAI (Reuters) - An Iraqi Islamist group said on Sunday it  killed three members of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP),  which cooperates with the Iraqi government, and posted a video  tape on its Web site of the apparent beheadings.

Iraq Group Shows Tape of Beheading of Three Kurds


HERZLIYA, Israel An adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon says a final vote on his planned pullout from Gaza and four West Bank communities could take place months sooner.

In  quot;year of opportunity, quot; Sharon offers state to Palestinians


Anthony #39;s 15-foot jumper with 3.6 seconds remaining gave the Nuggets a 100-99 victory over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, the fifth stop on Denver #39;s seven-game road trip.

Nuggets win on Anthony #39;s shot


AP - Their are several reasons the Jacksonville Jaguars have gone from 1-6 at this time a year ago to their current 5-2 record, The answer given by most players is just one word: confidence.

Jags in First Place in AFC South (AP)


Intel Corp. is scrapping plans to enter the digital television chip business, marking a retreat from a major component of its consumer electronics initiative.

Intel backs away from TV chips


Over a year after its induction in the Army, the Agni-II intermediate range missile was test-fired on Sunday to test its guidance system over a shorter range.

Agnis suspect guidance tested


THE future of AstraZenecas blood-thinning medicine, Exanta, was thrown into fresh doubt last night after Frances leading drugs regulator confirmed that it was reviewing the medicines approval status.

Hopes thin for future of Astra #39;s blood drug


The long-term economic health of the United States is threatened by \$53 trillion in government debts and liabilities that start to come due in four years when baby boomers begin to retire.

US economy in peril as debts come due in  #39;08


They followed in the footsteps of Pheidippides and Spiridon Louis on the road from Marathon to Athens last night and by the time they reached the magnificent marble-stepped Panathinaiko Stadium

Baldini joins legends of Marathon


LONDON (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Tony Blair was  back at work Saturday after successful heart surgery but his  vow to hold on to power for five more years has sparked fevered  speculation about who might succeed him and when.

Blair's Exit Strategy Sparks Succession Fever


Well, it #39;s not quite great, but it might be good enough to do the job. With the conclusion of the BMW International Open on Sunday came also the final reckoning in the constitution of the Europe Ryder Cup team.

Langer fills out a strong team for the Ryder Cup


Among the online worlds hottest commodities, nothing sizzles quite like Firefox, the new Web browser by the California-based Mozilla Foundation thats causing sleeplessness in and around Seattle, Microsoft Corps home turf.

Firefox is hot; Thunderbird #39;s not  for good reason


AP - The NASA turbojet notoriously known as the

'Weightless Wonder' Makes Final Flight (AP)


French industrial output soared in September as the car sector bounced back from a summer slowdown, figures show.

Auto industry lifts French output


AP - Digital video recording pioneer TiVo Inc. has long promised

TiVo Pop-Up Ads Raise Consumer Concerns (AP)


ISLAMABAD, Pakistan- Pakistan on Wednesday test-fired a medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead but insisted it was not sending a signal to India amid continuing peace moves with its regional rival.

Pakistan does 2nd test of nuclear-capable missile in 10 days


defensive end Kyle Budinscak said.  quot;After last year, the embarrassment we had and this past Saturday, us coming out and not coming up with a victory is not an option.

Notre Dame says victory only way to get revenge


It's one of the biggest technical changes in television since color TV: the digital transition. And because many Americans remain in the dark about it, federal regulators began an education campaign Monday to enlighten them.

Feds Kick Off Digital TV Consumer Campaign


Reuters - Israel vowed on Tuesday to respond\against militants who launched a cross-border rocket attack\into the Jewish state from southern Lebanon, but said it would\act with restraint to avoid inflaming the situation.

Israel Vows Response to Rocket Fire from Lebanon (Reuters)


Except to say, they are the team now enjoying Chris Gardocki #39;s work as a punter, no? Until this special-teams game of seesaw between division pretenders teetered Baltimore #39;s way on a downed punt at the Browns

Boller prevails, but Garcia wins on style points


Saying they hoped African leaders could solve what the United Nations calls the world #39;s worst humanitarian crisis without sanctions, the leaders of Egypt, Chad, Nigeria and Libya discussed the crisis in Sudan #39;s Darfur region with the

Libyan leader Gadhafi hosts mini-summit on Sudan #39;s Darfur conflict


AP - Dogs with paralyzed hind legs regained the ability to walk after getting a shot of a chemical cousin of antifreeze that helped repair nerve cells in their damaged spinal cords, scientists reported.

Scientists Reverse Paralysis in Dogs (AP)


Reuters - The U.S. Interior Department on\Friday gave final approval to a plan by ConocoPhillips and\partner Anadarko Petroleum Corp. to develop five tracts around\the oil-rich Alpine field on Alaska's North Slope.

U.S. OKs Commercial Drilling in Alaska Oil Reserve (Reuters)


If you listen between the lines, it sure sounds like what Dale Earnhardt Jr. was really saying was something like,  quot;While today #39;s accomplishment is extremely gratifying on both a personal and professional

Next stop, Our Lady of Victory Lane


That #39;s assuming the Scottish Association for Marine Science is correct in its conclusion that the tiny fish communicate via strategic gas releases, one of the scientific breakthroughs recognized in the 2004  quot;Ig Nobel quot; Prizes.

Science prize celebrates fish flatulence, hula hoops


AP - The oxygen-depleted

Gulf's 'Dead Zone' Less of a Mystery (AP)


TEL AVIV, Israel - An explosion went off Monday in a crowded open-air market in Tel Aviv, and a TV report said at least four people were killed.

Explosion Kills Four in Tel Aviv Market


AP - Daniel Graham was just a college sophomore when Ben Coates was wrapping up his brilliant career at tight end for the New England Patriots.

Graham Starring in Third Season With Pats (AP)


The US Air Force has awarded a \$500m, six-year contract to Microsoft Corp and Dell Corp, to update and consolidate 38 software licenses across multiple sites on more than 525,000 machines.

US Air Force deploys Microsoft and Dell


For some reason, noon just comes way too early, and making it to campus is a struggle. I thought one of my professors was going to be a stickler about it and dock me some points, but I had a talk with him to calm him down.

Clark: Weekend fights prove need for division of sports fans <b>...</b>


The redesigned Saturn VUE passed the government #39;s rollover test with a score similar to other sport utility vehicles, federal regulators said Monday.

Redesigned Saturn VUE Passes Rollover Test


Thirty-three people have been killed and 14 injured after a minibus and a truck collided on a desert road in southern Egypt on Sunday, police sources say.

Egypt road crash kills 33


At least two people have been killed and 18 others injured in an explosion at a concert by an Indian Bollywood star in Colombo. Police said a hand-grenade ripped through the front stands as Shahrukh Khan ended his performance on Saturday.

Two die in Colombo concert blast


ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (CP) - With final calls for boarding, France on Monday was shutting down one of the largest evacuations in post-independence Africa, an airlift that flew 5,000-plus westerners and others from violence pitting France against its former

Number of foreign evacuations from Ivory Coast top 5,000: French <b>...</b>


Dynogen Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Waltham said it licensed a late-stage drug candidate from Mitsubishi Pharma Corp. Terms weren't disclosed. The compound, pumosetrag, is thought to be helpful to patients suffering from a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Dynogen, a privately held firm, said it plans to start new clinical trials with pumosetrag next year. Mitsubishi, part ...

Dynogen enters drug licensing deal


The chip sector enjoyed some gains Thursday, led by Intel, which announced an executive shuffle, and other industry players whose shares rose after getting a boost from analyst upgrades.

Chip Stocks Up on Intel Personnel Changes


Boston, MA (Sports Network) - Boston Red Sox ace Curt Schilling underwent surgery Tuesday to repair a ruptured flexor tendon in his right ankle.

Schilling has successful ankle surgery


Mike Tyson is beginning to train for a fight in March, his first since being knocked out by Danny Williams in July.

Tyson to Begin Training


Iran says it will take part in a US-sponsored conference on election plans for Iraq due to be held in Cairo next month.

Iran to attend Iraq poll meeting


Branded food and beverage maker Kraft Foods Inc. said Tuesday the Securities and Exchange Commission does not intend to recommend an enforcement action against the company in connection with the government #39;s

Kraft Says SEC Not Planning Action


The United States remains woefully unprepared to protect the public against terrorists wielding biological agents, according to government officials and specialists in bioterrorism and public health.

U.S. Unprepared Despite Progress, Experts Say


WASHINGTON : The United States pulled its punch in Iraq as Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld announced US forces arrayed in Najaf against Shiite militants of firebrand cleric Moqtada Sadr were  quot;unlikely quot; to storm the town #39;s holy places to deal the militia ...

Rumsfeld says US forces  quot;unlikely quot; to storm holy places in Najaf


Joe Gibbs and the Redskins are the only team to have a referee on staff to, among other things, help review replay challenges during games.

Adjusting on the Fly


A former U.S.-trained Colombian army officer who later joined an outlawed paramilitary group was killed in a clash with army troops Tuesday, the army said.

Colombian Military Kills Militia Leader


A local Buddhist official was beheaded by suspected Muslim insurgents as revenge for the deaths of 85 rioters in Thailand #39;s mainly Muslim south last week, police said Tuesday.

Thai local official beheaded in revenge for deaths of 85 Muslims


Louisiana-Pacific Corp. named executive vice president Richard W. Frost the lumber company #39;s next chief executive, company officials announced Tuesday.

Update 1: Louisiana-Pacific Names Frost CEO


Microsoft Corp. #39;s rock-solid dominance of the Web browser market may be cracking. A new study shows its ubiquitous Internet Explorer browser continues to lose ground to its competitors.

Microsoft #39;s rivals eat away at its browser #39;s dominance


SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - IBM is expanding and adding new  technology to 11 of its data centers in North America, Europe  and Asia to meet growing demand and rolled out new services to  customers, the world's largest computer company said late on  Thursday.

IBM to Expand Data Centers Across World


The big drug maker yesterday told Wall Street that the recent withdrawal of its Vioxx painkiller will dampen 2005 earnings even more than previously expected.

Merck #39;s stock rises despite cloudy outlook


Latin America #39;s agricultural giant won a pair of trade victories against farm subsidies for rich countries after the World Trade Organization agreed that Brazilian farmers have been hurt by government assistance for US cotton farmers and European Union

Update 1: Brazil Wins Trade Battles Against US, EU


quot;Today we raised the bar on security for the entire PC industry, quot; IBM Personal Computing Division General Manager Fran O #39;Sullivan said.

IBM Introducing Fingerprint Reader into Laptop


Iraqi militants have killed 12 Nepalis they captured just over a week ago, the militants and a Nepalese official said Tuesday. It was the largest mass killing of captives in the grueling war against

Militants kill 12 Nepal hostages


Typhoon Nock-ten battered Taiwan on Monday as the storm #39;s eye whirled just off the island #39;s eastern coast, drenching mountainous regions with rain that could trigger deadly mudslides.

Typhoon Nock-ten lashes Taiwan, bringing heavy rain and fierce <b>...</b>


The Carter Center and the Organization of American States said an audit of returns from Sunday #39;s recall vote won by President Hugo Chavez found no evidence of irregularities.

Carter Center, OAS Confirm Chavez Victory After Audit (Update1)


The man charged with making US computer networks safer has resigned suddenly.

US cyber security chief resigns


Investor's Business Daily - Millions of people want Santa to bring them a portable music player this Christmas. And not just any brand, mind you. They're asking for Apple Computer's iPod.

Apple's Computer Sales Could Harmonize With iPod's Success (Investor's Business Daily)


EDS (Electronic Data Systems) warned yesterday that its third quarter earnings would take a significant hit from US Airways #39; Chapter 11 filing on Sunday.

EDS hit by US Airways #39; Chapter 11


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Federal Reserve on Tuesday  raised interest rates for the third time this year by a quarter  of a percentage point and said the economy was regaining some  momentum, signaling at least one more to come.

Fed Raises Rates for Third Time This Year


UEFA is contemplating dragging its European competitions down to the level of the average local five-a-side league by paving the way for the return of plastic pitches.

Plastic pitches ready to bounce back into fashion


Armed men grabbed an Arab-Israeli employee of the CNN news network in Gaza City on Monday, the network says. It was unclear whether the CNN producer, identified as Riyad Ali, was taken away by militants or members of the Palestinian security forces.

Armed men seize CNN employee in Gaza


Another disheartening event has taken place in Myanmar (Burma). Prime Minister Khin Nyunt, No. 3 in the hierarchy of the military junta, was replaced with First Secretary Soe Win, a reputed protege of Than

EDITORIAL:Democracy in Myanmar


AMR Corp., the parent company of American Airlines Inc., on Wednesday said the company lost \$214 million in the third quarter, an announcement that has pilots worried about layoffs.

American Airlines posts big losses in Q3


Hee-Won Han knew she needed to birdie the 18th hole to force a playoff in the Safeway Classic.  quot;I just play, quot; she said.  quot;Not much pressure.

Han wins playoff in Safeway Classic


WHEN it comes to stylish electronic gadgets, few companies make them like Apple Computer Inc. The Apple Power Book G4 range of professional-standard notebook computers, instantly identifiable

Stylish gadgets which have become cultural icons


SHANGHAI, China - Focusing on the fast-growing Chinese market, Japan #39;s Toshiba and major Chinese appliance maker TCL have signed a broad agreement to cooperate in making and marketing appliances in China, the companies said Thursday.

Toshiba, TCL to Cooperate on Appliances


Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova of Russia overpowered American Mashona Washington 6-0, 6-1 Saturday to win her second straight Japan Open on a day when rain from an approaching typhoon leaked through the arena #39;s retractable roof and

Russia #39;s Maria Sharapova defeats Mashona Washington in Japan Open <b>...</b>


A few years ago, casinos across the United States were closing their poker rooms to make space for more popular and lucrative slot machines.

How an accountant made poker a draw again


Japan #39;s Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi will reshuffle his Cabinet and pick key officials for the country #39;s ruling Liberal Democratic Party on Monday, said Shinzo Abe, secretary general of the party.

Japan #39;s Koizumi to Reshuffle Cabinet on Monday (Update1)


AP - President Bush needs to do a lot more than improve his body language for Friday night's second debate, says Democrat John Edwards. The Republicans say it's John Kerry who's got the explaining to do about his policies.

Dems, GOP Claim Lead Going Into 2nd Debate (AP)


LONDON (Reuters) - British ministers have condemned the

Soccer: Britain Demands Action After Racist Chants


Don #39;t look for Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger to sit down for a drink after Sunday #39;s critical showdown between Man United and Arsenal.

Against Man Utd, Gunners aim for No. 50


Camden, NJ, has become the nation #39;s most-dangerous city, while at the other end of the spectrum, Newton, Mass., ranks as the safest city, according to a company #39;s yearly ranking based on crime statistics.

Newton ranked safest city in America


PARIS (Reuters) - Yasser Arafat was in a critical condition  in a French hospital on Saturday and Hamas militants in Gaza  said there was an urgent need for unity among Palestinian  leaders.

Arafat's Condition Critical, Leaders Urge Unity


China Southern Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding to become the first Chinese mainland #39;s air company to join a global airline alliance, according to Saturday #39;s China Radio International.

China Southern Airlines joins SkyTeam


1,440 of them in Montreal -- as it slows the production rate of its 50-seat Canadair regional jet to face the realities of the struggling US airline industry.

Bombardier axes 2,000; another 1,200 jobs at risk


Two agents said that the Yankees were on the verge of acquiring Randy Johnson from the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Yankees See New Chance to Make Deal for Johnson


With the economy slowly turning up, upgrading hardware has been on businesses radar in the past 12 months as their number two priority.

PMC-Sierra lowers forecast


Verizon announced plans to start introducing fiber-optic connections for residential phone and data services in six Eastern states.

Verizon to Extend Fiber Optics to Parts of Six Eastern States


Once again the elitist left-wing media is attempting to make Americans feel guilty for achieving excellence. Paul Hamm followed the rules, performed a brilliant high-bar routine and won the gold medal fair and square.

8/27/2004 LETTER: No guilt required


They will genuflect to their 1984 Boston College football forefathers, who beat the Miami Hurricanes in the Orange Bowl on a Hail Mary pass that bronzed Doug Flutie as a Heisman Trophy winner. But it doesn't mean the Eagles, ranked 24th in the Associated Press Top 25 and 25th in the ESPN/USA Today coaches' poll, will bow to anyone else ...

Eagles look back, not ahead


A powerful typhoon loomed off southwestern Japan Sunday, threatening large areas of the country with fierce wind and rain. The storm, which is expected to hit Kyushu island early on Monday

Powerful Typhoon Poised to Strike Southern Japan


SAN FRANCISCO -- A court hearing is scheduled for today in a dispute over who is the rightful owner of the ball Barry Bonds hit for his 700th home run.

Bonds #39; 700th homer ball brings lawsuit from fan


No agreement has been reached in the negotiation between Northern Ireland #39;s Democratic Unionist Party, or DUP and its rival Sinn Fein, to resume peace talks.

Talks to resume N. Ireland peace collapses


LOS ANGELES (CBS.MW) - Taking a cue from the recording industry, Hollywood film studios said Thursday they would start suing those who pirate their movies online.

Studios to sue over online film piracy


Avis Europe PLC has dumped a new ERP system based on software from PeopleSoft Inc. before it was even rolled out, citing substantial delays and higher-than-expected costs.

Avis Europe is latest to get stung by IT


The Browns pulled the plug on Davis 3 years into his ill-fated tenure as coach and general manager, leaving the franchise searching for answers about its direction.

Pioli may be Browns #39; best bet


Juan Pierre had three hits and AJ Burnett pitched eight solid innings as the Florida Marlins salvaged a split of their key four-game series against the Chicago Cubs with an 11-1 win in the series finale in National League play Sunday.

Baseball-Pierre Hits, Burnett Pitches Marlins to Easy Win


Canadian Press - WELLINGTON, N.Z. (AP) - Australia has angered its neighbour New Zealand, with a plan to impose an 1,850-kilometre security zone around the Australian coastline.

Australia's plan for vast sea security zone angers neighbour New Zealand (Canadian Press)


India were denied the chance to push for a series-levelling victory in the second Test against Australia by the Chennai weather. India had gone into the final day on 19 without loss, needing 210 to win but heavy rain completely washed out play.

CRICKET: India denied chance


Thursday #39;s collective bargaining meeting between the NHL and NHLPA lasted only four hours, but it #39;s still unknown if anything came out of it to save the 2004-05 season.

SPECTOR: Players #39; offer not quite good enough


MacCentral - At a special music event on Tuesday, Apple took the wraps off the iPod Photo, a color iPod available in 40GB or 60GB storage capacities. The device will automatically synchronize music and photos on both Macs and PCs. Apple is shipping the new iPod Photo today for U #36;499 or  #36;599 depending on capacity. Also introduced today is a special iPod U2, a black-clad 20GB model coming in mid-November for  #36;349. It comes with a red Click Wheel and a custom engraving of U2 band member signatures. More details about both new iPods will be posted shortly.

Apple intros Photo iPod, U2 iPod (MacCentral)


AP - While a new intelligence estimate offers a gloomy assessment of Iraq's future, President Bush talks instead about brighter days ahead under a new prime minister and the promise of free elections.

Bush Still Optimistic About Iraq (AP)


Southampton, England (Sports Network) - Southampton midfielder Fabrice Fernandes was sentenced Wednesday in a case involving drunken driving.

Southampton #39;s Fernandes avoids jail


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Colgate-Palmolive Co. <A HREF=

Colgate Sees Profit Well Short of Targets


A California judge on Tuesday kept alive a human rights lawsuit that claims energy giant Unocal Corp. should be held liable for the alleged enslavement of local residents during

Judge OKs Human Rights Suit Against Unocal


LONDON (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Tony Blair said  on Wednesday the international community was closer than ever  to making North Korea and Iran accept its demands to halt  nuclear programs.

Blair Hopeful of Iran, N. Korean Compliance


Zimbabwe #39;s ruling Zanu-PF old guard has emerged on top after a bitter power struggle in the deeply divided party during its five-yearly congress, which ended yesterday.

Mugabe conquers in bitter Zanu-PF power showdown


BEIJING, NOVEMBER 29: Chinas central bank slammed speculators in the foreign exchange market on Monday, saying those pouring money into the yuan currency in search of profits could undermine efforts to make it more flexible.

China says speculation imperils yuan reforms


SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Nike Inc. <A HREF=

Nike Co-Founder Knight Steps Down as CEO


MOSCOW (Reuters) - Police in the Russian region of Chechnya  have new orders to open fire on anyone wearing a mask, the  local interior minister was quoted as saying Thursday.

Chechnya Bans Masks, to Open Fire on Infringers


AP - Google Inc. Thursday warned that the growth it has showed so far this year may not be sustainable.

Google Says Growth Is Slowing Down (AP)


Philadelphia expanded free outdoor wireless Internet access on Tuesday as part of a multimillion-dollar plan to connect the entire city by early 2006.

Philadelphia Expands Free Wireless Web Access Zone


In a decision that eventually may affect millions of workers, IBM says it will pay \$320 million to settle part of a pension plan lawsuit.

IBM agrees on partial pension settlement


Israeli Harel Levy defeated Yen-Hsun Lu of Chinese Taipei 7-6 (7-1), 7-6 (7-1) on Monday in the first round of the \$860,000 ATP/WTA Tour #39;s Japan Open.

Tennis: Harel Levy beats Yen-Hsun Lu at Japan Open


It also shows off new printers and music players.

Dell unveils holiday lineup, including new plasma TVs


Drug wholesaler Cardinal Health Inc. (CAH.N: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Monday it would cut 4,200 jobs, or 7 percent of its work force, and close 25 facilities

Cardinal Health to Cut 4,200 Jobs


Illinois Tool Works Inc. said it won #39;t proceed with its bid for UK-based Linx Printing Technologies Plc after Danaher Corp. said it may offer 15 percent more for the company.

Illinois Tool Won #39;t Pursue Linx After Danaher Offers More Money


The Commission has lifted the excessive deficit procedure, first launched in 2003, against France and Germany. But already there are doubts about Germany respecting the rules in 2005.

Stability Pact: France and Germany off the hook for now


DAVID BECKHAM and Michael Owen could miss Real Madrid #39;s Champions League clash with Roma tonight as their Bernabeu nightmare goes from bad to worse.

ENGLAND STARS SET FOR REAL STRUGGLE


The Federal Reserve is primed to push up borrowing costs for the fourth time this year at its meeting on Wednesday, and is unlikely to pause at upcoming meetings

What the Fed Has to Consider at Wednesday #39;s FOMC


Former Inktomi chief David Peterschmidt replaces Don Listwin, who will continue to be vice chairman.

Openwave names new CEO


The Redskins make a surprising move by releasing starting tight end Walter Rasby, who was a priority in the offseason when the team signed him to a three-year, \$2.7-million deal.

Redskins Release Rasby


failing

UN rights chief says Sudan


LONDON Vodafone Group, the world #39;s largest mobile phone operator, said on Tuesday that it had doubled its six-month dividend and extended a stock buyback by 1 billion to increase shareholder returns after sales fell for the first time.

Vodafone doubles 6-month dividend


Reuters - Yasser Arafat's successors\promised swift elections to replace him Saturday as\Palestinians flocked to his tomb to pay last respects to the\ex-guerrilla who symbolized hopes of a state.

Mourning Palestinians Pledge Vote to Replace Arafat (Reuters)


Electronic Data Systems (EDS), one of the world #39;s biggest computer services companies, is likely to cut up to 20,000 jobs over the next two years, the company #39;s chief executive said.

EDS expected to slash 20,000 jobs


Kellogg Co. on Monday announced the appointment of James M. Jenness as chairman and chief executive, following the resignation of Carlos Gutierrez to take the post of US Commerce Secretary.

Kellogg appoints Jenness CEO after Gutierrez resigns to join <b>...</b>


The European Union has made clear to Turkey that it cannot start negotiations on joining the union, until Ankara reforms its penal code.

EU Cannot Start Entry Talks With Turkey Unless it Reforms Penal <b>...</b>


TOKYO (Reuters) - The United States and Japan have detected  signs that North Korea is preparing to launch a ballistic  missile capable of reaching almost anywhere in Japan, Japanese  government sources said Thursday.

Sources: N.Korea May Be Preparing Missile Launch


AP - Jamaica's embattled police commissioner resigned following last year's record number of homicides in the Caribbean country, authorities said.

Jamaica's Police Commissioner Resigns (AP)


FOR many people, more so those who believe that unfettered-capitalism is the way forward for the world, the latest listing of billionaires (millionaires excluded, and we speak here in US dollars

The super rich vs the wretched


Barry Bonds becomes only the third baseball player to hit 700 home runs.

Baseball: Bonds hits milestone


DODGING rockets, bullets and bomb blasts in the Sunni Muslim heartland between Fallujah and Ramadi, a group of US soldiers is in the most dangerous swathe of territory in Iraq.

Band of brothers vow to survive


The Temple Owls have a terrible record, but they are not a bad team. Syracuse found that out Saturday when Temple defeated the Orange, 34-24, at Philadelphia, and the Boston College Eagles, who visit Lincoln Financial Field this Saturday after upsetting West Virginia, had best heed the lesson.

BC, O'Brien wise to Owls


AP - Eagles running back Brian Westbrook has a broken rib and could miss up to two games, an NFL source said Tuesday night.

Source: Westbrook Out With Rib Injury (AP)


Deutsche Bank Securities has agreed to pay \$87.5 million to settle allegations that it issued stock research that was biased by its investment-banking business, regulators announced Thursday, as part of a crackdown on conflicts of interest on Wall Street.

Deutsche Bank Paying \$87.5M Settlement


KABUL (Reuters) - The abduction of three foreign election  workers in Afghanistan could force aid groups to reduce their  international staff in a country that just finished counting  votes in its first direct presidential election.

Afghan Kidnappings Prompt Big Security Review


GLENN McGrath wont have to worry about the total number of his Test wickets exceeding his run tally at least for a while. Australian team-mates had teased him that his total wickets up to the first Test against

Meet Glenn McGrath, Australias new batting star


Thousands of anti-war activists marched through central London, Sunday, October 17, 2004, to protest the US-led occupation of Iraq.

Thousands March in London to Protest Iraq War


Germany #39;s Rainer Schuettler defeated Australian Paul Baccanello and Finland #39;s Jarkko Nieminen downed Spaniard Guillermo Garcia-Lopez in the first round of the \$500,000 US China Open on Monday.

Germany #39;s Rainer Schuettler victorious in first round of China <b>...</b>


Though technophiles are the ones who usually like to brag about their electronic toys, recently, even tech novices have started crowing about their digital video recorders.

TiVo, Cable or Satellite? Choose That Smart TV Wisely


With some luck, Maryland's women's basketball team could make a big splash nationally this year after several down seasons.

Terps Have Potential


English trainer Alan Berry, jockey Paul Bradley, and farrier Steve OSullivan were arrested Tuesday morning as a part of an ongoing race-fixing investigation being conducted by London police.

Three more arrested in English race-fixing scheme


Slain right wing politician Pim Fortuyn has been voted the greatest Dutchman of all time by television viewers in the Netherlands.

Right wing icon voted greatest Dutchman


Ace Ltd. will stop paying brokers for steering business its way, becoming the third company to make concessions in the five days since New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer unveiled a probe of the insurance industry.

Ace Joins AIG, Marsh in Ending Fee Plans Targeted by Spitzer


AP - Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme said he's encouraged about his chances of playing against the Arizona Cardinals after throwing Thursday for the first time this week.

Delhomme Feels He May Play on Sunday (AP)


The Globe has collaborated with Cramer Productions and produced a DVD:  quot;Boston's Greatest Sports Stories: Beyond the Headlines quot;.

This DVD highlights a storied past


Formula One #39;s Contract Recognition Board met but decided to adjourn the BAR versus Williams dispute over Jenson Button on Wednesday.

Button decision delayed


IN a dramatic turn of events to the ill-fated Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) #39;s fact-finding mission, the government on Tuesday night dumped the delegation at the Beitbridge border post, in defiance of a High Court order barring the

COSATU deportations illegal


The nation #39;s retailers had a disappointing start to the holiday season, today reporting sluggish November sales as a much-hoped-for surge in Thanksgiving weekend business failed to materialize.

Retailers report sluggish November


Militants kidnapped an American and three other foreigners in a bloody assault on their office in the capital Monday, and gunmen assassinated

American, three other foreigners kidnapped in Baghdad; Baghdad <b>...</b>


Washington Redskins kicker John Hall strained his right groin during practice yesterday, jeopardizing his availability for Sunday #39;s game at Chicago.

Hall may not have kicks coming


Northrop Grumman and Boeing said yesterday they will bid as a team to compete for NASA #39;s planned manned and robotic space-exploration program.

Rivals Boeing, Northrop find common ground in space


With two days to go before they file their roster for the Championship Series, the Red Sox yesterday appeared likely to stick with the 25 players who helped them sweep the Angels in the first round. The Sox used every position player, including rookie third baseman Kevin Youkilis , in the opening series and every pitcher but Curtis Leskanic and ...

Francona likely to keep winning roster intact


Ziff Davis - HP's worldwide director of Linux marketing sees HP embracing open-source software and exploring the Linux desktop.

HP Embraces Open Source as Well as Linux (Ziff Davis)


American courts came into direct conflict with Russia yesterday, after Russia insisted it would push on with plans to sell off the main chunk of stricken oil giant Yukos

Yukos sale: Russia defies US


AP - New England Patriots wide receiver Deion Branch will miss his sixth straight game because of a knee injury.

Pats' Branch to Miss Sixth Straight Game (AP)


Officials at Oracle (Quote, Chart) used its Open World show in London as a springboard to launch an application server offering for small- to medium-sized businesses (SMB) Tuesday.

Oracle Targets SMBs with App Server Lite


Legislative candidates made their final appeals to voters Saturday in a fiercely contested political showdown that could give pro-democracy opposition figures the most clout they #39;ve had since Hong Kong was returned to China.

Hong Kong politicians wrap up heated legislative campaign


Novell Inc. on Monday announced at its BrainShare trade show in Barcelona, Spain, the immediate availability of Novell ZENworks 6.6 Linux Management, a Linux software management system.

Novell Releases New Linux Management Tool


They say the best things come to those who wait.  quot;Halo 2 quot; lives up to the billing, but it sure took long enough. The release date was changed, and changed some more, but Bungie met the expectations.

Long-awaited Halo 2 for Xbox runs rings around the competition


Tyco International (TYC:NYSE - news - research) Thursday reaffirmed guidance and said its board had approved a dividend increase. The Bermuda-based conglomerate said the quarterly dividend will increase to

Tyco International Ups Dividend


Defense contractor General Dynamics Corp. reported a 23 percent jump in profit in its third quarter yesterday despite escalating costs on a contract to build commercial oil tankers.

General Dynamics Posts Profit


NEW YORK (Reuters) - The dollar posted broad gains on  Friday for the third straight session, as traders took more   year-end profits in other currencies in anticipation of higher  U.S. interest rates after next week's Federal Reserve meeting.

Dollar Holds on to Gains with Fed in View


ATLANTA (Reuters) - Coca-Cola Co. <A HREF=

Coke, Bottler and EU Reach Antitrust Deal


Germany have lost their two gold medals in the equestrian three-day eventing competition after France, Britain and the United States won their appeal to sport #39;s highest appeal body.

British equestrian team get silver


US Open tennis champion Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia has advanced to the quarterfinals of the China Open tennis tournament in Beijing with a hard-fought win over China #39;s Li Na.

Tennis: Kuznetsova Advances to China Open Quarterfinals


BEIJING (Reuters) - Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova  demolished fellow Russian Tatiana Panova 6-1, 6-1 to advance to  the quarter-finals of the China Open on Wednesday.

Sharapova Eases Through in Beijing


AFP - Jacques Santini's shock resignation as Spurs coach had nothing to do with any rumoured falling out with Tottenham's sporting director Frank Arnesen, the Dane insisted.

Santini's departure nothing to do with me insists Arnesen (AFP)


Its risky to call a series in late September that neither team really has to win a playoff preview. Just the same, the three-game series between the Twins and Yankees that concludes Thursday is as compelling as such series get.

Yankees, Twins ready to start head games


MARK COLVIN: Teachers, doctors, police and childcare workers are the people we trust with our children. But members of those professions are among more than 150 people arrested in the biggest child pornography crackdown that Australia has ever seen.

Over 150 people arrested in child pornography crackdown


Welcoming Iraq #39;s interim president to the White House offers President Bush a chance to persuade Iraqi minority groups to participate in next month #39;s election - pivotal step toward a democracy still threatened by a violent

Iraq #39;s interim president, Jordan #39;s king visit White House


The EU trade commissioner, Peter Mandelson, has asked US officials for their stance on threatened World Trade Organization action over aid to Airbus.

EU Wants US Clarification on WTO Stance


The death toll from a devastating coal mine gas explosion in central China #39;s Henan province has risen to 77. Efforts are continuing to recover 71 others still listed as officially missing, although officials

Death toll in China mine blast reaches 77


Hoping to both bolster resources available to its network of business partners as well as expand its number of partners, IBM on Tuesday introduced services and support programs that boost financial support for co-marketing campaigns and grant deeper access to IBMs sales network to close deals faster.
ADVERTISEMENT

<img src=

IBM beefs up ISV programs


Ed Hinkel made a diving, fingertip catch for a key touchdown and No. 16 Iowa stiffened on defense when it needed to most to beat Iowa State 17-10 Saturday.

No. 16 Iowa 17, Iowa St. 10


The world #39;s largest phone maker, Nokia, recently announced several new advances in it #39;s phone line including 3 new camera phones, memory boosts for many phones and handwriting recognition on one of it #39;s smartphones.

New Nokia Advances


By the time Aaron Peirsol made his last turn and headed into the final 50 meters of the 200 backstroke, he had a body-length lead and was chasing his own world record en route to his second gold of the Games.

Peirsol golden in beating field, controversy


North Carolina legislators are to discuss a proposed package of incentives for the PC maker during a session set for Thursday.\<br /> Photos: Inside Dell's Austin assembly plant

Dell closing in on plans for new U.S. plant?


Madison, WI (U-WIRE) -- Despite not playing this weekend, the Wisconsin football team (5-0 Big Ten, 8-0 overall) moved up in both the Associated Press Poll and the ESPN/USA Today Coaches Poll.

Idle Badgers move up in polls


Ryder Cup rookie Chris Riley sinks a six-foot putt on the final hole to avoid a European sweep of the four best-ball matches and provide a precious half-point for the U.S. side.

Riley's Contribution


BAQUBA, Iraq : Almost 50 new Iraqi soldiers were gunned down in an execution in a remote area of eastern Iraq, officials said, while a US diplomat was killed in a mortar attack on a military base in Baghdad.

Dozens of army recruits  #39;executed #39; in Iraq, first US diplomat <b>...</b>


Reuters - International mediators will step up\efforts on Wednesday to resolve Ukraine's 10-day-old crisis\over a disputed presidential election after the collapse of\talks between pro-Western and pro-Russian factions.

International Mediators Try to End Ukraine Crisis (Reuters)


A battalion of Indian Army soldiers has pulled out of Kashmir #39;s summer capital Srinagar, marking the first withdrawal from the urban hub of insurgency in the Himalayan state.

India cuts troops numbers in Srinagar


International Business Machines Corp. has put its personal computing business up for sale in a deal that could be worth as much as \$2 billion, the New York Times reported on Friday.

IBM Puts Its PC Business Up for Sale -NYT


AP - The United Nations and the United States expressed concern that it could take until early next year to deploy a 4,000-strong African Union force to Sudan's conflict-ridden Darfur region and called for much speedier action.

African Force for Darfur Not Yet Ready (AP)


Sony Music Entertainment Japan has decided to drop the copy-protection on its CDs from November 17 onwards. Copy protection was introduced by the company in January last year.

Sony drops copy-control CDs


JERUSALEM A Palestinian rocket killed two Israeli children and Israeli forces killed four Palestinians during a day of bloodshed Wednesday along the northern edges of the Gaza Strip.

Rocket kills 2 Israelis, prompting clash in Gaza


VIENNA (Reuters) - The European Union called on Iran Monday  to comply with the U.N. nuclear watchdog's demand that it  suspend all activities connected with uranium enrichment, a  process that can be used to develop atomic weapons.

EU Urges Iran to Heed UN Nuclear Freeze Demand


CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- No storm in history has done more damage to the Kennedy Space Center than Hurricane Frances did. Officials at the Florida facility said the storm tore about 1,000 exterior panels from the Vehicle Assembly Building.

Frances May Delay Shuttle Flights


Combined with recent Netscape app purchases, the move gets Linux provider closer to integrating desktops with network services. By Larry Greenemeier.

Red Hat Hires Sun VP To Focus On Desktop Strategy


As co-stars of an elite, wireless-oriented tech show they were improbable indeed: A weed whacker, a blender and a boombox. Their decibel assault at this year's 6th annual DEMOmobile show was the perfect foil for its most celebrated product, a noise-canceling cell phone headset called Jawbone.

Array of Innovations at Mobile Tech Show


Luke Donald shot a 4-under-par 68 yesterday for a two-stroke lead after three rounds of the Dunhill Links Championship at St. Andrews, Scotland.

Donald surges to Dunhill lead


CHICAGO (Reuters) - Poultry producer Sanderson Farms Inc.  <A HREF=

Sanderson Farms Profit Below Estimates


Manchester, England (Sports Network) - Manchester United confirmed on its website Wednesday that is has made an offer to Everton for young striker Wayne Rooney.

Manchester United confirms Rooney bid


Athens -- When Deena Kastor rode the bus to the start of Sunday #39;s women #39;s Olympic marathon race, she was jolted by the reality of the time and the place.

Going the entire distance Kantor #39;s marathon bronze was true team <b>...</b>


UNITED NATIONS - Russia introduced a draft resolution Monday calling for a new list of suspects who would be subject to extradition in a stepped-up global campaign against terrorism. China welcomed it but Pakistan and other Security Council members eyed the proposal with caution...

Russia Introduces Terror Resolution


TORONTO (CP) - Microcell Telecommunications #39; buoyant shares hit a new high Thursday amid heightened expectations of a bidding war between Telus Corp.

Microcell shares hit new high as Rogers seeks federal OK for <b>...</b>


A central bank adviser quoted as saying the government had cut its holdings of US Treasurys backtracked Friday after the speculation helped push the euro to a new all-time peak.

China bank advisor retracts statement on US Treasurys


Reuters - Botswana, which has the\largest elephant population in Africa, will donate 500 animals\to Mozambique, conservationists and Mozambican officials said\Friday.

Botswana Donates 500 Elephants to Mozambique (Reuters)


CHICAGO - Harley-Davidson Inc. Chief Executive Jeffrey Bleustein will retire from his CEO post effective April 30 and be replaced by Chief Financial Officer James Ziemer, the motorcycle maker said Thursday.

Harley-Davidson CEO dismounts


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Police launched an investigation on  Saturday into an extraordinary mass brawl involving players and  fans at a game between the Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers.

Police Join Probe Into Pistons-Pacers Mass Brawl


The productivity of America's workers grew at a 1.9 percent annual rate in the third quarter, the smallest gain since late 2002, the government reported yesterday.

Productivity growth slows


So the Jets lost a tough game at New England, 13-7. That #39;s no reason to believe they won #39;t be a factor in the AFC East race -- and perhaps beyond.

Jets #39; solid showing bodes well for their future


A military plane crashed in the mountains near Caracas, killing all 16 persons on board, including two high-ranking military officers, officials said.

16 die in Venezuela plane crash


SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) - Shares of energy company Dynegy plunged 10 percent Wednesday after the company slashed its 2004 earnings estimate and warned investors it faces losses that could go as high as \$391 million next year.

Dynegy falls on forecast 2005 loss


Michael Jackson's Neverland manager claims police wanted to search areas unspecified by their warrant.

Jackson search 'ignored warrant'


Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) expanded its Mobile Sempron processor family with a higher performing model and integrated EVP anti virus technology.

AMD announces Mobile Sempron 3000


Off-spinner Harbhajan Singh took seven crucial wickets to guide India to an 8-wicket win over South Africa today in Kolkata. With the first Test having ended in a draw, India won the Test series 1-0.

Bhajji scripts 1-0 Test series win against Proteas


SiliconValley.com - It wasn't so long ago that Apple Computer encouraged us all to

Rip. Sample. Mash. Share. (SiliconValley.com)


On a day when the Denver Broncos honored the greatest quarterback in franchise history - John Elway received his ring from the Pro Football Hall of Fame during a halftime ceremony -he

Sunday, September 26, 2004 Calling On Plummer


SINGAPORE, OCT 5: US oil prices scrambled back over \$50 a barrel on Tuesday, kept on edge by a prolonged production outage in the Gulf of Mexico at a time when major exporters are already pumping nearly full tilt.

Oil Climbs Back Over \$50 Per Barrel


After an unprecedented span of just five days, SpaceShipOne is ready for a return trip to space on Monday, its final flight to clinch a \$10 million prize.

Private Craft Closes In on X Prize


Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates chats with Berkeley students about everything from open source to malaria to the next Xbox.

Gates stumps in Silicon Valley


BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A huge car bomb ripped through a  crowded market near a Baghdad police headquarters Tuesday,  killing 47 people and wounding more than 110 in the deadliest  single attack in Iraq's capital in six months.

Car Bomb Near Baghdad Police Headquarters Kills 47


Knowing he was too hurt to be effective, running back Curtis Martin still wanted to be in the huddle as the New York Jets attempted to rally in the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns.

Martin #39;s Presence Drives the Jets


Red Bull Racing confirmed today that as part of the continued winter test programme, David Coulthard will join the team in Jerez (Spain) this week driving the 2004 car, the R5.

Red Bull Racing confirms David Coulthard to join team for testing <b>...</b>


IBM, which revolutionised the global computer industry when it launched its first desktop in 1981, has sold its PC business to a Chinese group in a \$1.75bn (900m) deal, it was confirmed today.

Lenovo buys IBM PC business


MANHATTAN, Kansas Fresno State pulled off its biggest win ever against a ranked team by downing number-13 Kansas City 45-to-21 in Manhattan.

Fresno State 45 (13) Kansas State 21


Reuters - The dollar rallied from another record\low versus the euro on Monday after blunt comments from the\head of Europe's central bank, while stocks and bonds came\under pressure from an expected rise in U.S. interest rates\later this week.

Dollar Up Off Record Low, Stocks Flat (Reuters)


Description: Violence continues in southern Thailand, where some say Islamic separatists are bent on splitting off the largely Muslim south from the Buddhist north.

Muslims, Buddhists Clash in Thailand


US Airways announced plans to cut \$45 million a year in pay and benefits to roughly 3,700 management employees, a move the airline hopes will convince its union employees to collectively accept \$950 million in annual cost cuts.

INDUSTRY REPORT: Aviation -- US Airways to cut pay


AP - The suspected leader of a Muslim cell plotted to devastate Spain with a suicide bombing that would kill senior judges and destroy case files at a court that serves as a center for investigating Islamic terror, officials said Wednesday.

Terror Leader Said Plotted Spain Attack (AP)


Symantec recently issued its biannual Internet threat report, which notes, among other trends, that e-commerce sites were the most targeted by hackers in the first six months of this year.

E-Commerce Attacks on the Rise


Microsoft Corp. on Wednesday plans to make available a connector kit that allows users to easily link Microsoft's Office Project Server 2003 with SAP AG's ERP (enterprise resource planning) products.

Microsoft provides Project Server 2003-SAP link


AFP - The leaders of the US Muslim community said that they will announce whether they will endorse any political candidate for president this year, and if so whom, in mid-October.

US Muslims take tougher line this election cycle (AFP)


TOKYO (Reuters) - Tokyo's Nikkei average fell 0.46 percent  early morning on Friday with technology shares such as Fujitsu  Ltd. leading the way, following a retreat in their U.S. peers  and on worries over record-breaking oil prices.

Tokyo's Nikkei Average Falls


LONDON (Reuters) - The dollar started 2005 on a strong note  on Monday, gaining more than a cent from last week's record  lows against the euro as investor selling paused on  expectations of a firm batch of U.S. economic data this week.

Dollar Starts 2005 Firm, Awaits U.S. Data


AP - Englishmen Paul Casey and Luke Donald surged to a five-stroke lead in the second round of the team World Cup on Friday after shooting an 8-under-par 64.

Casey, Donald Five Ahead at World Cup (AP)


JERUSALEM: Syria is directly involved in terrorism and will not be granted immunity by Israel, the deputy defence minister said on Monday, but stopped short of claiming formal responsibility for the killing of a Hamas leader in Damascus.

Israel warns Syria over terrorism


BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Commission has stopped  the clock on its review of Microsoft and Time Warner's purchase  of U.S. anti-piracy software maker ContentGuard, a spokesman  for the EU executive said on Tuesday.

EU Suspends Microsoft-ContentGuard Review


Pharmaceutical giant Merck  amp; Co. chose to go on the offensive and voluntarily withdraw its arthritis drug Vioxx from the market Thursday.

The Fall-Out from Vioxx


The abduction of Israeli journalist Riad Ali in Gaza yesterday is an extraordinary event, apparently the first of its kind in the history of the conflict in the territories.

Analysis / Danny Rubinstein - A new departure in the conflict


AP - Scientists say a nonnative insect is to blame for a disease that's killing beech trees in the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Disease Killing Beech Trees in Smokies (AP)


Politics has made year-end tax planning problematic. Although tax policy is fixed for 2004, it #39;s been difficult to strategize into the future without knowing who the president would be through 2008.

Despite uncertainty, taxpayers should


Spanish bank Santander Central Hispano has said a court order to open a trial against its chairman Emilio Botin and other bank executives was based on illegitimate requests.

Santander bank says trial order based on illegitimate request <b>...</b>


Gulf oil ministers on Saturday shrugged off a sharp decline in oil prices, saying the market #39;s reaction to OPEC #39;s decision the day before to reduce output by 1 million barrels was normal.

OPEC approves cutting oil production (updated AM 00:32)


WASHINGTON -- Financial officials from the world #39;s economic powers ended their meeting in Washington Sunday without a deal on debt relief for Iraq and other poor nations.

Economic Powers Fail To Agree On Debt Relief


Reuters - A new video game to be released on\Monday allows players to simulate the assassination of U.S.\President John F. Kennedy.

New Video Game Recreates Kennedy Assassination (Reuters)


President Vladimir Putins visit to Turkey on Sunday will highlight a thaw in relations between the one-time Cold War foes and focus on trade, investment and energy deals, the Reuters news agency reports.

Putin Arrives in Turkey on Historic Visit


Hewlett Packard has decided to discontinue offering desktop workstations based on Intel #39;s Itanium microprocessor as its customers prefer the extended 64-bit approach.

HP to Stop Using Intel Itanium Chip


U.S. and Iraqi forces scoured Samarra for holdouts today after reclaiming control of the city from Sunni militants in fierce fighting that won praise for Iraqi troops.

U.S. and Iraqi Forces Scour Samarra for Holdouts


DreamWorks, Pixar and Disney have each rescheduled high-profile films in ways that could dramatically affect their earnings flow and status in

Studios juggle release dates of animated films


WASHINGTON (AFP) - Lawyers for the Russian oil giant Yukos made their first appearance in a US court, as the company made a last-ditch effort to avert a weekend auction of its major asset.

Yukos lawyers to argue case for US bankruptcy filing


Folks are paying attention to the Colorado Rockies #39; youth movement. Second baseman Aaron Miles and outfielder Matt Holliday each made the 46th annual Topps Rookie All-Star

Rockies land two of the 10 players on MLB squad


Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has accepted an invitation Wednesday to visit Pakistan from his Pakistani counterpart Shaukat Aziz.

Indian PM accepts invitation to visit Pakistan


Mark Viduka scored twice to end his run of 12 matches without a goal and help Middlesbrough beat Manchester City 3-2 in English soccer #39;s Premiership.

Viduka Goals Help Middlesbrough Beat Man. City 3-2 (Update1)


AP - Japan's Justice Ministry on Tuesday rejected former chess champion Bobby Fischer's demand for protection as a political refugee, issuing an order to deport him.

Japan Rejects Bobby Fischer's Appeal (AP)


AP - Palmer and Woods. How's that for a leaderboard? Too bad it's tour rookie Ryan Palmer  #151; not Arnold  #151; sharing the lead with Tiger Woods after one round in the Deutsche Bank Championship. The two shot 6-under 65s Friday on the TPC of Boston to take a one-stroke lead over Mark O'Meara and two others.

Woods, Palmer Share Lead at Deutsche Bank (AP)


Kelly Holmes arrived here yesterday insisting she felt no pressure before her first appearance on the track since winning her two Olympic gold medals.

Holmes relaxes and gives rivals a chance


With POP3 support, Gmail users will be able to transfer their messages to a client-side e-mail application and store the messages on their local hard drives, making them accessible off-line.

Google gives Gmail POP3 support, plans antivirus features


BAGHDAD - A car bomb exploded in Baghdad?s commercial centre, killing 17 people and narrowly missing a US convoy that had passed by seconds earlier.

Car bomb kills 17 in Baghdad


NAJAF, Iraq (Reuters) - Rebel Shi'ite fighters appeared  still to be in control of the Imam Ali mosque in the Iraqi city  of Najaf, but the whereabouts of their leader, the fiery cleric  Moqtada al-Sadr, were unknown on Saturday.

Sadr Militiamen Still in Control of Iraq Shrine


AP - After a temper tantrum that led to an eight-game suspension and a course in anger management, Jose Guillen needed a change of scenery. He'll find it in the nation's capital. The Anahiem Angels traded Guillen to the Washington-bound Expos  #151; the soon-to-be Nationals  #151; on Friday for outfielder Juan Rivera and prospect Maicer Izturis.

Angels Trade Jose Guillen to Expos (AP)


Reuters - Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed\legislation on Thursday that would ban cruise ships from\incinerating trash or dumping used shower and sink water within\three miles of the California coast.

California Curbs Cruise Ship Pollution Near Shore (Reuters)


The 2004 Cardinals were the National League #39;s best defensive team by acclamation. Now they have the hardware to back up that assertion.

Rolen, Matheny also honored for defensive excellence


GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip -- Israeli helicopters attacked a Hamas training field yesterday morning, killing at least 13 Palestinians and wounding 25 in the bloodiest strike in Gaza in months, officials from both sides said. Most of the casualties allegedly were members of the anti-Israeli militant group.

13 Palestinians killed in Gaza strike


Zimbabwe opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai says his treason acquittal could help heal deep political divisions.

Mugabe rival urges reconciliation


With the president in attendance, senior fullback Kyle Eckel rushed for a career-high 179 yards as Navy defeated Army for the fifth time in six years.

Navy cruises past overmatched Army


Spam, the luncheon meat which valiantly sustained the country #39;s war effort only to suffer so cruelly at the hands of Monty Python, is being relaunched in the UK.

Spam back on the menu


LONDON - Video game and mobile phone companies are set to rake in the cash this year as customers use phones to zap space invaders or sink game-winning golf putts, pushing the mobile gaming market over US\$1 billion (NZ\$1.

Mobile phone gaming set to boom


In Bangladesh, a series of explosions at an opposition party rally, where a former prime minister was speaking, killed at least 12 people and wounded dozens of others.

Explosions Target Bangladesh Opposition Rally


The New York Public Library focuses on Isaac Newton and the influence of his ideas in its thoughtful and engaging exhibition.

The Man Who Grasped the Heavens' Gravitas


The Romney administration is planning a \$1.7 million, 18-job boost for the beleaguered agency that inspects amusement park rides, boilers and elevators, but a union official says at least

Gov #39;s plan to add 18 inspectors greatly inadequate


Microsoft Corp. officials said Monday that the company has spent millions of dollars preparing a version of its Windows operating system without a program for playing digital music and videos, in the event it loses its bid to postpone antitrust sanctions ordered by European authorities.
<FONT face=

Microsoft's  Backup Plan


SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China will decide whether to ease or  tighten restrictions on credit and investment after reviewing  economic data for August due this month, central bank governor  Zhou Xiaochuan said on Monday.

China to Decide on Curbs After Aug Data


Reuters - The United States has seen\information suggesting Iran is working on the technology to\deliver a nuclear warhead on a missile, Secretary of State\Colin Powell said on Wednesday.

Iran May Seek to Mate Missile, Nuclear Warhead-US (Reuters)


Boeing Capital Corp., the finance unit of aircraft maker and aerospace defense systems provider Boeing Co., said Thursday that the recent agreements reached on its claims against insolvent Hawaiian Airlines will not affect the company #39;s earnings or cash

Boeing Unit to Sell Hawaiian Air Claim


WASHINGTON (CBS.MW) -- Global financial markets are stronger than at any time since the US stock market bubble burst in early 2000, according to an IMF report released Wednesday.

Says Fed has helped by speaking clearly about rate hikes


As part of its growing effort to thwart piracy, Microsoft is offering free photo slideshow software to customers who verify that they have a genuine copy of Windows.

Microsoft battles piracy with free software


In Microsoft's quest for better search, says CNET News.com's Mike Ricciuti, there's been no end to the potholes and detours.

The long march to Longhorn


Title contender Lithuania wrapped up its preliminary round matches with a 5-0 record by defeating Australia 100-85 on August 23 in the men #39;s basketball competition.

Lithuania wraps up with 100-85 win over Australia


Top seed Vincent Spadea beat fellow American James Blake 6-3, 6-1 to reach the quarter-finals of the 380,000 US dollars Millennium International tennis tournament in Delray Beach, Florida on Thursday.

Top seed Spadea enters Delray Beach ATP quarter-finals


Tamil Tiger rebels in Sri Lanka have killed four people, including a leader of a renegade guerilla faction, in growing factional violence that is threatening the country #39;s fragile cease-fire.

Sri Lanka #39;s Tamil Tigers Kill Renegade Leader


Reuters - Cod stocks in Europe's northern\waters are on the verge of extinction, scientists said on\Monday, calling for a blanket ban on fishing in 2005.

Scientists Call for Cod Fishing Ban, Industry Angry (Reuters)


Mississippi State #39;s football program was placed on four years probation, stripped of four scholarships during each of the next two seasons and banned from postseason play this year by

Mississippi St. placed on four years #39; probation


AP - Iran insisted Thursday it had a right to exempt some equipment from an agreement with the European Union committing it to freeze all parts of a program that can make nuclear weapons-grade uranium  #151; a move that diplomats said threatened to scuttle the deal.

Iran Insists on Keeping Some Centrifuges (AP)


Microsoft Corp. has contributed its FlexWiki collaboration tool to SourceForge.Net, the third release from the software giant to the open-source development site, both organizations said Tuesday.

Microsoft Makes Its Third Contribution To Open-Source Site


AT amp;T has added worm and virus protection to its Internet Protect service network-based firewall. The service now helps businesses protect themselves from a variety of threats without

AT amp;T Adds Worm And Virus Protection To Firewall Service


AFP - A succession of powerful earthquakes rocked eastern Indonesia, killing at least 17 people, injuring more than 100 others and destroying hundreds of homes.

17 dead, over 100 injured as powerful earthquakes hit eastern Indonesia (AFP)


VeriSign Inc. is continuing its legal fight against the main overseer of the Internet #39;s domain-name system, despite the dismissal last week of its federal lawsuit against the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers.

VeriSign Takes ICANN to State Court


In the lead up to his inauguration as Indonesian president tomorrow, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has remained tight-lipped about the make-up of his cabinet, and, as throughout the election campaign, any policy details.

Big business spells out economic agenda for new Indonesian <b>...</b>


MULTAN, Pakistan (Reuters) - At least 39 people were killed  and more than 80 wounded when a car bomb exploded at a rally to  commemorate an assassinated militant religious leader in  central Pakistan early Thursday, police said.

Car Bombing Kills 39 at Pakistan Religious Rally


As incredible as it sounds, the Giants have hit must-win territory already. They have played one game, lost it badly, and have spent the ensuing week talking as much

Time to put up, shut up


Linux seller gets piece of \$8.6 million French contract after exiting bankruptcy protection.

Mandrake gets contract to boost Linux security


Microsoft #39;s Halo 2 video game launched in stores across Canada at midnight this morning, its accompanying media frenzy and record-breaking sales confirming blockbuster games are becoming as profitable -- and as culturally important -- as first-run movies.

New game  #39;will blow past anything Hollywood has #39;


David O #39;Leary believes his Aston Villa side let their supporters down in today #39;s 2-1 defeat at home to arch rivals Birmingham.

We let fans down - O #39;Leary


GAZA (Reuters) - Defiant Palestinian militants fired  rockets into an Israeli border town on Monday despite Israel's  vow to stop such attacks from the Gaza Strip with a massive  military offensive that has killed 66 Palestinians.

Defying Army Offensive, Hamas Rockets Hit Israel


Have adware and spyware commandeered your computer? An extreme solution: erasing your hard drive and starting over.

Terminating Spyware With Extreme Prejudice


This year #39;s hurricane season has many homeowners looking more closely at the fine print on their insurance policies, and many investors eyeing the impact on insurance stocks.

Leading indicators


Los Angeles  Reuters News Service, 19 November 2004 - A generation of children grew up playing Nintendo #39;s Game Boy handheld video game system, and now that they have grown up, Nintendo has a new toy for them.

Nintendo prepares weekend launch of new handheld


AP - The matchup was fit for a Grand Slam final, not the fourth round. So, too, was the riveting last game. Lindsay Davenport and Venus Williams, seven major titles and 49 weeks at No. 1 between them, swapped powerful strokes for 13 superb minutes Monday at the U.S. Open, bringing fans to their feet with several of the game's 24 points.

Davenport Tops Venus to Make Open Quarters (AP)


WASHINGTON - Frustrated doctors say they too often find themselves jury-rigging adult medical devices to fit children's tiny bodies and special needs. Now pediatric experts have begun a major push to fill the gap...

More Medical Devices Needed for Babies


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The ranks of Americans filling for  initial unemployment compensation swelled last week but at  least half of this increase was linked to devastation wrought  by Hurricane Charley earlier this month, the government said on  Thursday.

Jobless Claims Rise on Back of Hurricane


Gaithersburg-based GenVec has run into a problem with its top drug candidate, and investors have had an adverse reaction. GenVec says the US Food and Drug Administration has requested that clinical trials

GenVec to suspend TNFerade trials


Shareholders of Scholastic (NYSE: SCHL), the world #39;s largest publisher of children #39;s books and related educational materials, have grown accustomed to disappointing first-quarter results.

Hogwarts and All for Scholastic #39;s Q1


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Marsh   McLennan Cos. <A HREF=

Marsh   McLennan Scraps Contested Fees


A series  of explosions rock  Iraq's capital as smoke is seen rising above the zone housing US and Iraqi offices.

Dawn blasts shake central Baghdad


U.S., British and Iraqi troops began a new offensive sweep across a region south of Baghdad known as the triangle of death.

U.S. Expanding Iraqi Offensive in Violent Area


It might make the racing crowd cringe, but what NASCAR boss Brian France is doing to manufacture excitement at a time of the year when racing usually hits a lull and sports fans

Johnson rides into  #39;playoffs #39; with hype, skill on his side


Reuters - The vaunted political and financial\skills of Fannie Mae Chief Executive Franklin Raines may not be\enough to save him professionally after a scathing regulatory\report last week detailed pervasive accounting lapses at the\mortgage finance company.

Fannie CEO May Not Withstand Challenge (Reuters)


Hubble Space Telescope -- In this unusual image, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope captures a rare view of the celestial equivalent of a geode  a gas cavity carved by the stellar wind and intense ultraviolet radiation from a hot young star.    Real geodes are baseball-sized, hollow rocks that start out as bubbles in volcanic or sedimentary rock...

Hubble Peers Inside a Celestial Geode


\$2.5 million in prize money is on the line as gamers from Uzbekistan to Ecuador compete in the World Cyber Games.

Photo 1 of 8: Global gamers clash for cash


India News: New Delhi, Dec 8 : India is on its way to poverty reduction and employment generation at a time when about 1.4 billion people, or half the world #39;s workers, are trapped in grinding poverty, says a new International Labour Organisation (ILO

India on track to poverty reduction: ILO:


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Factories in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic  region rebounded in October, a survey showed on Thursday, but  employment measures declined and the outlook for the future  slid sharply.

Some U.S. Factories Recover, Outlook Dims


DECEMBER 08, 2004 (COMPUTERWORLD) - Some 40,000 computers in the UK #39;s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) were unable to access their network last month when an IT technician erroneously installed a software upgrade.

EDS: IT upgrade caused software glitch at UK agency


Slick CDs and portable DVD support, plus digicam choices and new security options.

Digital Gear: Entertaining Gadgets


Thousands of protesters marched through Taiwan #39;s capital on Saturday, urging the government to scrap a big US weapons package they said would trigger an arms race with China and squeeze social welfare.

Thousands of Taiwan People Protest US Arms Deal


The cost of Christmas rose this year, but some surprising elements got cheaper.

Price of 5 Golden Rings Plummets


NAJAF, Iraq - Plumes of black smoke rose above the embattled city of Najaf Tuesday after American warplanes bombed insurgent positions overnight and supporters of a radical cleric charged that shrapnel from a U.S. attack had hit parts of the Imam Ali Shrine...

U.S. Denies Claim It Damaged Najaf Shrine


Reuters - Marsh   McLennan Cos. , the\insurance broker at the center of a bid-rigging scandal, on\Tuesday said it will lay off 3,000 employees, or 5 percent of\its work force.

Marsh   McLennan to Cut 3,000 Jobs (Reuters)


Porto, Portugal (Sports Network) - Champions League holder FC Porto and defending Bundesliga champion Werder Bremen each produced late goals Tuesday to secure advancement into the knockout stage of this season #39;s Champions League competition.

Werder Bremen and Porto get it done late


Chicago media mavens were thrown for a loop Monday with news that one of the market #39;s most famous rock radio stations was changing hands.

Rock radio shocker: Loop joins Q-101 owner


Big evolutionary insights sometimes come in little packages. Witness the startling discovery, in a cave on the eastern Indonesian island of Flores, of the partial skeleton of a half-size Homo species that

Evolutionary Shrinkage: Stone Age Homo find offers small surprise


RICHMOND, Va. - Residents and officials in the Carolinas on Monday were cleaning up from Tropical Storm Gaston - and keeping their eyes on Hurricane Frances...

Carolinas Watch for Hurricane Frances


HOUSTON -- Continental Airlines said Tuesday that rising oil costs and \$280 million in federal transportation, security and airport fees charged on passenger tickets drove the carrier to post a loss in the third quarter.

Continental posts quarterly loss


Prudential Equity Group said yesterday #39;s dismissal of Roger Egan was a surprise because Marsh  amp; McLennan (nyse: MMC - news - people ) had previously indicated in October that Egan would remain in his position.

Marsh #39;s Dismissal of Egan Was  #39;Unexpected #39;


SkyTeam was founded in June 2000 by Aeromxico, Air France, Delta Air Lines and Korean Air. Since then the group has grown to include Czech Airlines and Alitalia.

China Southern joins SkyTeam


Britain appointed its first black High Court judge yesterday and she predicted she would be ''the first of many. quot; The Department for Constitutional Affairs confirmed the appointment of Linda Dobbs, 53, the first black lawyer promoted beyond the ranks of circuit judges, who hear lesser cases. Joining the High Court will give her access to some of the country's most ...

First black judge joining British High Court


Was this a crack in the defenses, or was it a calculated retreat to more favorable ground for what is shaping up to be the decisive battle on employee stock options?

Stock Options: Pause to Reload


INDIANAPOLIS - ATA Airlines has accepted a \$117 million offer from Southwest Airlines that would forge close ties between two of the largest US discount carriers.

ATA OKs \$117 million Southwest deal


Canadian authorities have raided the offices of Imperial Tobacco in their hunt for evidence of cigarette smuggling during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Canada draws bead on Imperial Tobacco


The Indian tour of Bangladesh will go ahead after the national foreign ministry gave their stamp of approval after a thorough security assessment.

Indians given the green light


A total of 32 people were killed in Thursday night #39;s (Oct 7) terror attacks on two Sinai holiday resorts frequented by Israelis: 29 at the Taba Hilton and three at Ras a-Satan.

Terror Bombings Hit Egypt


AT amp;T Corp. said it will cut 7,400 more jobs this year and write down \$11.4 billion of assets as the phone company retreats from the residential business it once dominated.

AT amp;T to Cut 7,400 More Jobs, Take \$11.4 Bln Writedown (Update3)


The Mariners begin a 13-game homestand today. It will be nice for them to put a word after home other than  quot;run. quot;. The day after Chicago hit five home runs in an 8-7 victory, the

Road trip ends on rough note; Ichiro goes 1 for 4


Reports that the British Grand Prix has been dumped from next year #39;s Formula 1 World Championship are a little premature, although that #39;s not to say it won #39;t happen.

British Grand Prix Threatened


AP - Spain asked Switzerland on Friday to extradite the suspected ringleader of an alleged plot to kill Spanish judges investigating Islamic terror cases, but it could take months for him to be handed over, officials said.

Spain Seeks Terror Suspect's Extradition (AP)


NEW YORK - U.S stock futures were moving into negative territory early Monday at the start of a quiet earnings and a noisy political week.    Dow Jones futures were down 28 points recently, while Nasdaq futures declined 8 points and S P futures were down 3.4 points...

Stocks Set to Open Lower on Quiet Earnings


Reuters - US Airways Group Inc. \told a bankruptcy court on Monday it would skip a  #36;110 million\pension payment due Wednesday as it looks to slash costs and\avoid liquidation after filing for protection from its\creditors over the weekend.

US Airways to Skip Pension Payment (Reuters)


SYDNEY: Coles Myer Ltd, Australias biggest retailer, increased second-half profit by 26 after opening fuel and convenience stores, selling more-profitable groceries and cutting costs.

Coles Myer second-half profit rises 26


DAVID Coulthard took his early retirement from the Japanese Grand Prix on the chin despite missing out on his best result of the season, as Michael Schumacher collected a record 13th victory of the 2004 campaign.

Barrichello wrecks Coulthard #39;s hopes


Greg Dobbs hit a bases-clearing double in the seventh inning last night, leading the Mariners to a 6-3 victory over Oakland at Safeco Field.

Dobbs #39; double lifts M #39;s


Toyota Motor Corp. #39;s shares fell for a second day, after the world #39;s second-biggest automaker had an unexpected quarterly profit drop.

Toyota #39;s Shares Decline After Unexpected Quarterly Profit Drop


Reuters - Indian railway police on Thursday arrested one of two stationmasters blamed for a head-on crash between two passenger trains which killed at least 38 people and injured 53, officials said.

Police arrest stationmaster after rail crash (Reuters)


AFP - Sudan's government and main rebel group are ready to clinch a final deal to end more than 20 years of war within days of talks resuming next week, spokesman for both sides said, a day before the UN Security Council opens a rare meeting in Nairobi on the country's peace process.

Sudan's main foes say peace deal imminent (AFP)


Solo city as it landed in heavy rain around dusk on Tuesday after a flight from Jakarta. Other sources were giving different numbers on casualties.

Teams scour Indonesia plane crash site


Microsoft released its first service pack for Systems Management Server 2003 with support for Windows XP SP2 and Virtual Server 2005.

Microsoft Releases Systems Management Server 2003 SP1


Raef LaFrentz can talk all he wants about how good his surgically repaired right knee feels. He can put all kinds of percentages on his recovery/comeback. He can liken his agility on the court to how it was before the operation.

LaFrentz holding up well


AP - The scoreboard was reset to zero, all the runs and hits from the previous day wiped away. Orlando Hernandez and Jorge Posada then went out and restored some order at Yankee Stadium.

Yankees Rebound to Defeat Indians 5-3 (AP)


AP - With former high school teammates Troy Smith and Ted Ginn Jr. leading the way, Ohio State pushed its troubles into the background for at least a day with a stunning 37-21 upset of No. 7 Michigan on Saturday. But the Wolverines are still headed to the Rose Bowl, thanks to Iowa's 30-7 win over Wisconsin.

Michigan Headed to Rose Bowl Despite Loss (AP)


A stake in the heart of USA mens basketball was delivered Saturday by a player who was inches from doing it four years ago in Sydney, Australia.

US men fall again


On Wednesday, the full moon will pass through the Earths shadow, causing a lunar eclipse to be visible throughout the United States.

Moon to turn copper red for last lunar eclipse until 2007


A computer firm is criticised by the Kennedy family for producing a game recreating the president's death.

JFK shooting game provokes anger


American and Iraqi forces are almost entirely in control of Fallujah, after a week of fighting in which 38 American troops, six Iraqi soldiers and an estimated 1,200 insurgents have been killed.

US, Iraqi Troops Occupy Fallujah as Violence Spreads Other Cities


Flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson, who kicked the winning drop goal in last November #39;s World Cup final against Australia, has been named as England captain.

Wilkinson named as England captain


AP - The Houston Astros charged into the playoffs with their 18th consecutive home victory, capping an incredible turnaround by beating Colorado 5-3 Sunday to win the NL wild card.

Astros Top Rockies to Claim NL Wild Card (AP)


Briton Anthony Davidson enhanced his claims for a place in the BAR team next season by going fastest in free practice for Sunday #39;s Belgian GP.

Davidson steals limelight


SANTIAGO : Asia-Pacific power brokers, starring US Secretary of State Colin Powell, convene here Wednesday determined to suppress terrorism, free up world trade and thwart North Korean nuclear ambitions.

Asia-Pacific powers to set sights on N. Korean nukes, trade <b>...</b>


LIKE A RESCUE squad that hears of an accident but then stops by a 7-Eleven for coffee, the world is ambling toward Darfur, the western Sudanese province where genocide is underway.

As Darfur Waits


Reuters - Two Turkish engineers abducted by\Iraqi militants were freed on Sunday after the companies they\work for said they would withdraw from Iraq to save their\lives, the state-run Anatolian news agency said.

Two Turkish Hostages Freed in Iraq -Agency (Reuters)


RAMALLAH, West Bank (Reuters) - Thousands of mourners  converged on Yasser Arafat's compound in chaotic scenes on  Friday before their revered leader was to be buried in the  place where Israeli forces trapped him until his final days.

Palestinians Flood Arafat Compound Before Burial


India and Pakistan said Wednesday they were considering scaling back thousands of troops from the Siachen Glacier, the world #39;s highest battlefield, and reported other progress

India, Pakistan report progress on Kashmir, other disputes


NEW YORK - Martha Stewart #39;s lawyers want the home decorating icon #39;s conviction overturned, saying her trial was  quot;unfair quot; because prosecutors failed to make sure the jury understood she was not charged with insider trading.

Martha Stewart #39;s lawyers say prosecutors  #39;unfair #39;


Australian Treasurer Peter Costello said Telstra Corp., the nation #39;s biggest phone company, made unwise #39; #39; investments in Asia.

Costello Says Telstra Corp. Made Unwise Investments in Asia


Albert Pujols hit a tiebreaking single in the ninth inning, and the Cardinals beat the Milwaukee Brewers 7-4 Monday night for their major league-leading 98th victory.

NL Capsules


Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon apparently has softened his stance that Palestinians must crack down on militants before he will restart peace talks, but Palestinian leaders on Friday said Sharon should go further and drop all

Palestinians cool to apparent softening by Sharon


AP - Two newspaper reporters who went to see the Boss perform at a political fund-raising concert got in trouble with their own boss.

Minn. Newspaper Suspends Two Reporters (AP)


Talking tough in her first public appearance since becoming Europe #39;s competition commissioner, Neelie Kroes blocked a merger in Portugal #39;s energy industry on Thursday and

Stern Stance for Europe #39;s New Antitrust Chief


AP - A federal judge held five reporters in contempt Wednesday for refusing to identify their sources for stories about Wen Ho Lee, a former nuclear weapons scientist once suspected of spying.

Wen Ho Lee Reporters Held in Contempt (AP)


p2pnet.net News:- Sasser worm author Sven Jaschan has been indicted in Germany with computer espionage. Sasser was written as a kind of anti-virus virus unleashed against the likes of Mydoom #39; and Bagle, Jaschan said.

Sasser author indicted


JM Smucker Co. (SJM.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Friday posted an 18.5 percent rise in quarterly profit, but its shares fell as much as 5 percent as sales were nearly flat excluding an acquisition.

JM Smucker Disappoints, Sales Flat