NAIROBI, Kenya -- Urgent investment is needed in North Korea to deal with severe environmental problems that have depleted the country's forests, contaminated water supplies, and polluted the air, the head of the UN Environment Program said yesterday.

N. Korea environment in danger, UN warns


The Race Committee and all the competing teams remained on water in the Gulf of Valencia for most of the afternoon in the hope of some action, but their patient waiting was in vain and racing was cancelled for the day mid-afternoon.

Team New Zealand blow rivals away


AP -

Celebs Aiding Anti-Bush Web Campaign (AP)


FREEPORT, Bahamas - Hurricane Frances ripped apart roofs, shattered windows and flooded neighborhoods as it raged through the Bahamas on Saturday, driving thousands from their homes before beginning a slow march toward the east coast of Florida. At least one man was electrocuted in the storm...

Hurricane Frances Tears Through Bahamas


In a careful and conciliatory move, Taiwan #39;s President Chen Shui-bian called for wide-ranging peace talks with China in a bid to adopt a system to prevent an outbreak of war in the Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan #39;s President calls for peace talks with China


AP - Gov. Rod Blagojevich is proposing to make it a misdemeanor for businesses to sell violent and sexually explicit video games to minors, a step that other states have tried with little success.

Ill. Gov. Seeks Violent Video Game Ban (AP)


Thirtynine leaders from Asia and Europe yesterday began informal talks on issues on trade, security threats and terrorism, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction

Talks include trade, security, and diseases control


The US Supreme Court passed on hearing an appeal from the Recording Industry Association of America, and let stand a lower court #39;s ruling that the RIAA must follow the guidelines of the 1998

Supreme Court Says  #39;No #39; to RIAA Appeal


SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp. <A HREF=

Microsoft Warns Asian Governments of Linux Suits


Public sector behemoth Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd on Monday said it has acquired an offshore oil field in Western Australia.

ONGC #39;s 10th acquisition abroad


Portland Trail Blazers #39; Zach Randolph, right, loses the ball as Boston Celtics #39; Gary Payton looks on during the second quarter Thursday, Dec. 9, 2004, at the Rose Garden in Portland, Ore.

Trail Blazers Edge Celtics 89-87


Reuters - Israeli troops shot dead two Gaza Strip\militants Sunday hours after Prime Minister Ariel Sharon vowed\to expand a huge offensive that has killed at least 49\Palestinians in an attempt to stop rocket fire.

Gaza Gunmen Killed as Sharon Vows to Pursue Raid (Reuters)


p2pnet.net News:- Apple Computer has issued a patch for 15 Mac OS X security flaws. But,  quot;It ain #39;t us - it #39;s them! quot; - it #39;s saying of some of the problems,  #39;them #39; being certain open source components.

Apple security hole fixes


Web search provider Google Inc., posting its first financial results as a public company, yesterday said its third-quarter earnings and revenues both more than doubled from a year ago on the strength of an online advertising boom that continues to gather steam.

Google's earnings more than double


Some web logs were swift to provide dark theories about the presidential election, but others were just as quick to debunk them.

Vote Fraud Theories, Spread by Blogs, Are Quickly Buried


THE UN is investigating about 150 allegations of sexual abuse by UN civilian staff and soldiers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, some of it recorded on videotape, a senior UN official confirmed yesterday.

UN Congo staff investigated over abuse


So, you thought testing happened in front of empty grandstands? Not when the Renault F1 Team fan club is involved

Clubbing in Barcelona


Microsoft's browser dominates the Web, but it is facing new competition from Firefox, an open-source project by a new generation of software developers.

In the Battle of the Browsers '04, Firefox Aims at Microsoft


Inter Milan has climbed to fourth after thrashing Messina 5-0 at the San Siro where Adriano scored a first half hat-trick. Sinisa Mihajlovic and Christian Vieri completed the

Serie A wrap: Milan close on Juve - Inter thump Messina


At the outer limits of our solar system, a solar shock wave is about to overtake NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft.

Voyager 1, Prepare for Action


The British Racing Drivers Club has called a board meeting in the hope of finding a way to revive talks to save the British Grand Prix.

BRDC bid to save Silverstone


Jeremy Mayfield needs more than a victory at Dover International Speedway in Delaware to get back in the thick of the Nextel Cup championship race.

Mayfield Looking to Move Up in Dover


Amazon A9 Search Engine Offers Shopping Discount\\In an effort to boost Amazon's A9 search engine usage and draw searchers away from Yahoo, Google and MSN, Amazon/A9 is offering a discount plan for A9 searchers on Amazon.com. Amazon is discounting purchases by 1.5 for A9 users as long as they register ...


JAKARTA: Australia defended a controversial maritime anti-terror plan on Friday after harsh words from neighbouring Indonesia that it breached international law and Jakartas sovereignty over its own waters.

Australia defends law against terrorism


Federal prosecutors yesterday alleged that a former sales director for Serono Inc. offered doctors bribes in return for prescribing its AIDS treatment as part of a marketing program at the Swiss drug company, whose main US offices are in Rockland.

Ex-Serono executive charged in bribery case


Opera Software and SlipStream Data announced the integration of the Opera browser with SlipStream #39;s web and email acceleration technology.

Opera Software and SlipStream Data partner to accelerate Opera <b>...</b>


With one of the most coveted individual prizes for an NFL quarterback almost in hand, Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts is thinking team.

Manning aims for wins, not records


The Sudanese gov #39;t agreed to observe the UN resolution on Darfur, avoiding threatened sanctions to their oil industry. But it says the resolution is unfair and unjust to Sudan.

Sudan says it will observe UN resolution


TULSA, Okla. -- Ashlan Davis extended his NCAA record with his fifth kickoff return for a touchdown this season and Tulsa beat No. 24 UTEP, 37-35, yesterday for its first win against a ranked opponent in more than eight years.

For Davis, Tulsa, win is a wacky one


AP - Construction spending surged in August to the highest level on record, while manufacturing grew at a slower pace in September, offering mixed signals about the economy's strength.

Construction Spending Hits All-Time High (AP)


New variant offers holiday greetings before infecting your PC with a virus.

Zafi Worm Hides Behind Christmas Cheer


TOKYO (CBS.MW) -- Moody #39;s Investors Service said Tuesday it has placed on review for possible downgrade the Philippines #39; long-term foreign- and local currency ceilings and ratings due to concerns over the sustainability of the government #39;s fiscal and debt

Moody #39;s may downgrade Philippines


WASHINGTON - Monitoring the gases emitted by lava from Mount St. Helens might provide clues to future eruptions, a British volcano expert says.

Chemists could predict volcanos moves


Investor's Business Daily - The economy added 144,000 jobs in August, the Labor Department said Friday, easing fears that the recent soft patch of growth would morph into a prolonged slump.

Job Gain Of 144,000 For Aug. Eases Fear Economy Is Slowing (Investor's Business Daily)


AP - From the instant Aaron Boone's home run cleared the left-field wall last October, the Yankees and Red Sox have been building to this.

Red Sox, Yankees Get Wanted Matchup (AP)


Oracle (Quote, Chart) advanced its plans to acquire PeopleSoft Friday after the US Department of Justice said it would not appeal a ruling on an antitrust case that tried to block the merger.

DoJ Won #39;t Appeal Oracle #39;s Takeover Plans


Lowering sticker on handheld game player to \$80 is early move in expected battle for portable gaming market.

Nintendo trims Game Boy Advance price


Symantec is fishing for dollars with a new service designed to help companies combat the ongoing epidemic of online identity theft, or  quot;phishing, quot; scams.

Symantec launches antiphishing service


AP - The legal attache for the U.S. Embassy was shot as he got out of his car in what appeared to be a botched robbery attempt, an embassy spokeswoman said Wednesday.

U.S. Embassy's Legal Attache Shot (AP)


AP - Shrugging off an ultimatum from the U.N. nuclear agency, Iran revealed Tuesday that it started converting tons of raw uranium as part of a process that could be used to make nuclear arms.

Iran Defies U.N. Nuclear Watchdog (AP)


Gaza withdrawal is part of Israel's effort to thwart Palestinian statehood, a Sharon adviser says.

Israel takes U-turn on road map


I.B.M. is in discussions to sell its PC business to Lenovo, the largest maker of PC's in China - a burgeoning market that Hewlett-Packard and Dell covet.

Weighing a PC Market After a Retreat by I.B.M.


A board investigating the crash of NASA #39;s Genesis spacecraft found that the design for a key system was drawn backward, resulting in improper orientation of switches that were

Genesis mishap probe focuses on backward design drawing


BRITAIN #39;S main financial regulator yesterday confirmed it is monitoring developments in a high-level probe into corruption in the US insurance industry.

FSA monitors investigation into US insurance industry


Photographers interested in kicking their dependence on chemicals and processing labs can learn to do so with an Exploring Digital Cameras class.

A class apart: cameras


Israel has mounted a political campaign based on lies against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), alleging that it has aided Palestinian terrorists.

Israel moves to impede UN relief to Palestinians


KABUL (AFP) - Three US military personnel and three American civilian crew members were killed when their plane crashed at the weekend in central Afghanistan, the US military said.

Six Americans killed in Afghanistan plane crash


Three Iraqi witnesses and a security chief said that looters stormed Al Qaqaa just days after U.S. troops swept through on their way to Baghdad in early April 2003.

4 Iraqis Tell of Looting at Munitions Site in '03


For the time being, Hewlett-Packard will keep the crown as the world #39;s biggest spender on semiconductors, according to a report released on Monday.

HP has chips with everything


PHUKET, Thailand (Reuters) - The United States will help  the millions devastated by the Indian Ocean tsunami rebuild  their lives, but an effort on the scale of the Marshall Plan is  probably not needed, Secretary of State Colin Powell said on  Tuesday.

U.S. to Help Rebuild Tsunami-Stricken Lives -- Powell


A new computer game which allows players to recreate the assassination of John F Kennedy has been condemned as  quot;despicable quot; by the former US president #39;s family.

JFK murder game condemned


AP - More than half the delegates to next week's Republican National Convention were willing to suggest a new running mate for President Bush if Dick Cheney leaves the ticket, an Associated Press survey found.

Survey: Powell, Guiliani Could Also Be VP (AP)


Indonesian police on Saturday released security camera images of a truck bombing outside the Australian Embassy, and investigators found traces of explosives in a room rented by two Malaysian militants wanted in the blast.

Indonesia releases embassy attack footage


The original version of Reebok Pump introduced in 1989 was inflated with the press of a pump button on the shoes tongue.  The new Chinese-produced 2.0 silently inflates itself after you slip into it and take about five steps.

THE NEW PUMP


Microsoft responded quickly to Apple #39;s recent European expansion for its iTunes service by launching its own online music service MSN Music in eight European countries.

MSN Music launched in eight European countries


and the steel industry will never be the same because of it. Ross, the financier who in less than three years cobbled together his International

Financier #39;s bet on steel pays off big


A debate is festering among graduates and parents at St. Paul's, an elite school in New Hampshire, with critics accusing trustees and the rector of mismanagement.

Turmoil Grips Elite School Over Money and Leaders


NEW YORK Stocks rose Monday as investors cheered a drop in oil prices but a disappointing sales forecast by Wal-Mart Stores stoked concerns about a slowing economy.

Wal-Mart warning dents Wall Street rally


Delta Air Lines will cut up to 7,000 jobs, reduce pay for other workers and close its Dallas hub as part of an effort to slash nearly \$3 billion more in annual costs and chart a course toward financial recovery.

Delta Reduces Expenses by Cutting Jobs, Closing Hub


The San Diego reliever gave up a pair of runs in the bottom of the ninth inning Friday and the Japanese all-stars rallied for a 3-2 walkoff win over the touring major leaguers in Game 7 of an eight-game exhibition series.

Japanese all-stars rally for baseball win over major leaguers


EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (Nov. 26, 2004) -- Minnesota Vikings center Matt Birk will miss at least four games after undergoing sports hernia surgery for the second time in four months.

Vikings center Birk out for month


The Athletics end their five-game losing skid in dramatic fashion on Saturday, rallying from a 4-0 deficit to beat the Indians 5-4.

A's Drop Indians


WASHINGTON - The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on Thursday filed a legal complaint against two companies that allegedly infected computers with spyware and pop-up advertising, then tried to sell their owners spyware-blocking software.

FTC files suit against alleged spyware distributor


Gamblers left more than \$1.3 billion in Arizona Indian casinos in fiscal 2004, demonstrating an appetite for slot machines and cards that shows no signs of ebbing.

Casinos are dealt \$1.3 bil


History looks to repeat itself in the biggest game to date of the Pacific-10 Conference this weekend. Two of the nation #39;s elite programs will square off when co-defending national champion USC (4-0 overall, 1-0 Pac-10) hosts No.

Sell-out crowd will watch No. 1 USC take on No. 7 Cal


The crowd chanted Yao Ming's name all game, soaking up the novelty of the NBA in another tribute to a player who is fast becoming a one-man basketball marketing force in China.

Rockets Nip Kings As NBA Travels to China


A decision on whether to suspend the EU antitrust ruling against Microsoft will be taken between 18 and 20 December. The testimonies brought against Microsoft by Novell and the Computer and Communications

Microsoft hopeful December will see suspension of EU antitrust <b>...</b>


Brian Roberts, CEO of cable giant Comcast, told executives at the United States Telecom Association #39;s annual convention that cable providers and traditional telephone companies should work together

Comcast CEO Calls for Telecom Truce


IRVING, Texas -- Dallas Cowboys running back Julius Jones will miss about two months with a broken shoulder blade. Cowboys coach Bill Parcells confirmed the injury Monday during his weekly news conference.

Rookie suffers broken shoulder in debut


BERKELEY, Calif. (CBS.MW) -- The computing problems to be solved in the next two decades will be more exciting than those that already have been solved, according to Microsoft #39;s Bill Gates.

Computing  #39;falls short


CHARLESTON, South Carolina (Reuters) - U.S. world number  two Andy Roddick will face Belarus' Vladimir Voltchkov in the  opening singles tie of their Davis Cup semi-final Friday.

Roddick to Open U.S. Davis Cup Bid Against Belarus


Austrian energy drink makers Red Bull said on Monday they had bought the Jaguar Formula 1 motor racing team from Ford who withdrew the team after this year #39;s world championship.

Red Bull buys Jaguar


Lawyers and judges are pushing to have New York's divorce law changed, saying it is archaic and heightens hostilities between spouses.

A New Push to Loosen New York's Divorce Law


College footballs annual parade of the dead is in full march, and look whos watching from the back row again without so much as a folding chair.

Players lose in college coaching carousel


Curse of the Bambino? Please. As jinxed ballclubs go, your Red Sox can #39;t even crack the top two. OK, so your heroes haven #39;t won the World Series since Harry Frazee sold Babe Ruth to the Yankees.

Curse of the Bambino? Boston doesn #39;t know from jinxes


The scramble by big traditional US airlines to become profitable again is leaving many travelers with longer airport layovers. The typical American Airlines passenger connecting

Airline cuts bring longer layovers


A huge explosion rocked the northern Iraqi city of Tikrit, killing 15 Iraqis, police and doctors have said. Eight others were seriously wounded in the blast, which occurred around 17:00 GMT on Sunday, local doctors have said.

Powerful blast kills 15 Iraqis in Tikrit


San Francisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds, 40, underwent knee surgery Tuesday and is expected to recover fully by spring training next year.

Barry Bonds Undergoes Knee Surgery


Abigail R. Safran was taken for more than \$5,000 earlier this year in what appears to be a burgeoning scam involving counterfeit cashier's checks, but the Northeastern University student is balking at paying back the money because she says her bank bears some of the responsibility.

Scam involving cashier's checks is gaining steam


California was home to more than a quarter of new tech jobs posted in September, a recent study indicates.

Go west, tech job hunter


US car thieves looking for newer models prefer the Cadillac Escalade EXT, a luxury pickup, and the Nissan Maxima, a midsize sedan.

Report: Thieves Prefer Escalade, Maxima


AP - Sirius Satellite Radio signed a deal to air the men's NCAA basketball tournament through 2007, the latest move made in an attempt to draw customers through sports programming.

Sirius to Air Men's NCCA Tournament (AP)


Black  amp; Decker Corp. received regulatory approval for its \$775 million cash acquisition of pump maker Pentair Inc. #39;s tools group, and expects the deal to close in early October, the power tools maker said Wednesday.

Black  amp; Decker Gets OK to Buy Tools Unit


Faced with developing serious competition to the powerhouse that is Apple #39;s iPod, Creative #39;s Zen Touch Player takes aim at several of the iPod #39;s features and frailties.

Pod people untouched by Zen


Although Computer Associates met its sales forecast for its second quarter, it will post a loss for the period as it absorbs restructuring charges and the \$225 million it agreed to pay in compensation for its accounting violations.

Brief: CA expects loss on restructuring, settlement charges


Like a latter-day Ellis Island, the National Tennis Center bristled with overseas energy, overseas hopes, overseas dreams.

A Door Swings Open, and the World Rambles In


AP - Fired up after his convention, President Bush raced through three states he lost in 2000, on a drive Friday to spur his backers to the polls in November.

Bush Vaults From RNC to Campaign Trail (AP)


Reuters - British scientists have taken tips from\Mother Nature to develop a new technology that could deliver\cheaper, life-saving vaccines without refrigeration to millions\of children in remote areas of the world.

British Scientists Develop New Vaccine Technology (Reuters)


An Italian court has sentenced a close political ally of Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi to nine years in prison for working with the mafia.

Berlusconi Ally Gets 9-Year Prison Term for Links to Mafia


SANTA MONICA, Calif. One of OJ Simpson #39;s friends is being ordered to testify about the former football star #39;s finances. The order to appear in court was issued yesterday at the request of Fred Goldman, whose

Friend to testify in court about OJ Simpson #39;s finances


Analysts in Hong Kong say China is signalling its intention to take a more active role in the territory's affairs.

China 'may intervene more' in HK


Aircraft fuel workers at London #39;s Heathrow Airport, one the busiest international airports in the world, started a 48-hour walkout over a pay hike row Friday.

Aircraft fuel workers strike at London #39;s Heathrow Airport


Shoaib Akhtar has been charged with level one misconduct for pointing Matthew Hayden towards the dressing room when he trapped him lbw in the first Test at the WACA yesterday.

Akhtar faces misconduct charge


NEW YORK, October 27 (newratings.com) - Analyst Jay H Gelb of Prudential Financial maintains his  quot;underweight quot; rating on Marsh  amp; McLennan Companies (MMC.

Marsh  amp; McLennan  quot;underweight quot;


Eliot Spitzer #39;s run at insurance broker Marsh  amp; McLennan (MMC ) looks increasingly as if it could be just the opening battle in a wide-ranging war against abuses in the insurance industry.

Cracking the Insurance Biz Wide Open


A 6-foot gash has been discovered in the hull of a tanker that leaked 30,000 gallons of crude oil into the Delaware River Friday night, officials said yesterday.

Divers find gash in hull of oil tanker


It seems to be a basketball paradox. Kentucky dominates its early-season opposition. Coach Tubby Smith finds no difficulty in convincing his players of their shortcomings.

Routs not fooling Smith, Cats


NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. blue chips advanced on Friday  after Ford Motor Co. <A HREF=

U.S. Stocks Up, Ford Boosts Gains


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Lamar Odom supplemented 20 points with  13 rebounds and Kobe Bryant added 19 points to overcome a big  night from Yao Ming as the Los Angeles Lakers ground out an  84-79 win over the Rockets in Houston Saturday.

NBA Wrap: Lakers Rally to Beat Rockets


Americans Hank Kuehne, Chad Campbell, Zach Johnson and Chris Riley beat a foursome of international players on the first playoff hole Tuesday in the inaugural Tommy Bahama Challenge.

US team wins Tommy Bahama Challenge in playoff


The Chrysler Group, the North American arm of DaimlerChrysler AG, continued on its hot streak last month as the only domestic automaker with increasing US sales.

Chrysler Outpaces Its US Competitors


Former Oriole Josh Towers beats the O's for the second time in a week after allowing one run and seven hits in 5 1-3 innings as the Blue Jays triumph, 14-4, on Friday.

Towers Stumps O's Again


PARIS (CP) - The electronics giant that operates under the Thomson, RCA and Technicolor brand names said Friday it will introduce high-definition DVD players next year and support two recording formats, HD DVD and Blu-ray.

Electronics giant Thomson to introduce HD DVD players in 2005


The oldest annual US team sports competition that includes professionals is not in baseball, or football or basketball or hockey. It #39;s in soccer.

A bit of history


Playlist reviews a multitude of choices in different categories to help you get the most out of your iPod.

Replace your iBuds


AP - Hamid Karzai's victory in Afghanistan's first presidential election could be sealed within days, a top election adviser said Wednesday  #151; unless investigators uncover major fraud.

Karzai Holds Lead Amid Fraud Probe (AP)


JAMMU, India, Nov. 20 -- India pulled  about 3,000 troops  out of Kashmir Saturday in a planned withdrawal of army units from the disputed region, Indian officials said. The soldiers left their bases in convoys of trucks, jeeps and buses.

3,000 Indian Troops Pull Out of Kashmir


A high-stakes test to determine if a robotic probe can automatically find a satellite and maneuver around it begins today off the California coast.

NASA Testing Robot Satellite Seeker


Aviation enthusiasts awaiting the historic flight of NASA's experimental X-43A 'scramjet' will have to wait another day. Mission planners hope to fly the unmanned jet at a record-breaking 7,000 mph. By Amit Asaravala.

NASA Delays Mach 10 Flight


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sears, Roebuck   Co. <A HREF=

Sears, KMart to Merge in \$11 Billion Deal


Japanese conglomerate Sumitomo Corp and UK metals broker Credit Lyonnais Rouse today settled their \$1.1bn (600m) action, drawing a line under a rogue trader scandal that shook the world #39;s biggest metals market in the 1990s.

Settlement reached on Sumitomo copper suit


Japan has decided to issue a visa for former Taiwanese President Lee Teng-hui to visit this year, a government spokesman said Thursday, a decision that could exacerbate tense relations with China.

Japan Approves Visa for Ex-Taiwan Leader


Seven regional brokerage firms have been fined a total \$3.65 million by federal regulators for allegedly failing to disclose that they received payments for issuing research on certain companies, in a settlement announced Wednesday.

Seven Brokerages Fined Total \$3.65M by SEC


Ricardo Powell lasted just ten balls yesterday at London #39;s Brit Oval and his name will not figure among the inning #39;s top scorers.

Windies into semis


Reuters - Too many house-rich Americans are\borrowing money against their homes to play the stock market,\brokerages regulator NASD warned on Wednesday.

NASD Warns of Risky Home-Equity Investing (Reuters)


SEOUL (Reuters) - A powerful South Korean labor union said  Sunday hundreds of thousands of its members will strike from  next week against a bill that aims to curb union militancy and  allow companies to hire more temporary workers.

S.Korea Unions Set to Strike, Stage Rally


TEHRAN: Internet access to three websites close to Iranian #39;s leading reformist party has been blocked by the authorities, prompting a protest by the party leader.

Iranian authorities block reformist websites


Virginia #39;s ACC title hopes and chances of reaching its first Bowl Championship Series were Gore-d yesterday at Scott Stadium. Miami #39;s Frank Gore ran for 195 yards on 28 carries

Hurricanes deal blow to Cavaliers


Pollution and deforestation in North Korea are exacerbating its serious food shortage problems, according to a UN report released Friday that outlines a range of environmental challenges facing Pyongyang.

NK Faces Severe Environmental Problems: UN


The world's largest automaker lowered its annual earnings forecast Thursday, a few hours after announcing plans to cut about 20 percent of its European workforce by the end of 2006 in hopes of saving about \$600 million a year.

GM Posts Anemic Third-Quarter Earnings


F5 Networks will announce its new switch next week, part of efforts to broaden its reach in the market.

F5 Networks to introduce next-gen traffic manager


Desperately trying to mollify its restive customers, Blockbuster Inc. said yesterday that it plans to effectively eliminate late fees on game and movie rentals, starting Jan. 1.

Blockbuster to end late fees Jan. 1


ATHENS (Reuters) - Justin Gatlin always wanted to make his  mark on the world. But as a teenager the new Olympic 100 meters  champion believed fame would come through art not sprinting.

Gatlin Turns Sprinting Into Art


Six California counties and cities on Friday filed a class action lawsuit against Microsoft Corp. accusing the software giant of violating California law with anti-competitive business practices.
ADVERTISEMENT

<img src=

California cities, counties sue Microsoft


AP - David Beckham won't be punished by England's soccer federation for intentionally getting a yellow card in a World Cup qualifying game.

FA Won't Punish Beckham Over Yellow Card (AP)


January 2006 can #39;t come too soon for Bill Gates because that is the date by which he believes the spam problem will be solved.

Bill Gates Dubbed Most Spammed Person In The World


Verizon Wireless and Nextel Communications Inc. said they resolved disputes over airwaves and trademark names, ending a 15-month legal battle between the two US mobile-phone providers.

Verizon Wireless Won #39;t Oppose Nextel Airwaves Swap (Update3)


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Stock prices are near the highest  level ever, but instead of triggering giddy euphoria, the rise  is inspiring doubt and concern that stock values might be too  high.

Some Doubt Stocks' Value as Prices Rise


JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesian police have made their first  arrest linked to a car bomb attack outside the Australian  embassy last week, detaining a man in West Java province, the  police chief said on Friday.

Indonesia Police Make First Embassy Bombing Arrest


Over 40 delegates from the breakaway Somali territory of Puntland on Monday threatened to quit peace talks in Kenya, posing a new trouble to Somalia which has just inaugurated a new assembly to unite the country.

New twist appears in Somali peace talks after assembly inaugurated


SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea completed the deployment of  2,800 troops to Iraq on Wednesday, the defense ministry said as  it lifted a news blackout on the sensitive mission imposed in  the face of anti-war demonstrations.

South Korea Completes Iraq Deployment of 2,800 Troops


AMSTERDAM/SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's Samsung  Electronics overtook Motorola as the world's second-biggest  mobile phone maker in the third quarter as the market continued  to boom, a survey showed on Wednesday.

Samsung Pips Motorola in Cellphone Ranking


Reuters - Pakistan Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said on Wednesday he remained hopeful that sustainable peace could be achieved with India after a friendly meeting with his counterpart Manmohan Singh.

Pakistan's PM says peace with India hinges on Kashmir (Reuters)


For U.S. soldiers in Iraq celebrating Thanksgiving away from their families, the day's events showed some traditions can be transplanted, even to the palm groves and farm fields near Baqubah.

Away From Home and Family, a Slice of Tradition


Resellers are accused of selling products with fake Certificate of Authenticity labels.

Microsoft Sues Alleged Software Pirates


AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Jes Overmaat, a mother of five,  thought she had bought a sweet old-fashioned Teddy bear for a  present, when it suddenly started talking.

PluggedIn: Smart New World of Digitoys


MARK COLVIN: Scores of Australian survivors and relatives of many of the 202 people killed when terrorist bombs ripped through nightclubs on Indonesia #39;s Bali island two years ago, have gathered at a new memorial site to remember the dead.

Memorial service honours Bali victims


MOSCOW The stakes are high in the much-publicized feud between the Kremlin and the Russian oil giant Yukos - so high that the outcome of that battle will shape how the country #39;s energy industry grows in 2005 and beyond.

Russia #39;s energy sector hinges on Yukos fight


SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- John Selvaggio, the architect behind Delta Air Lines #39; Song, has stepped down 22 months after the low-fare unit #39;s launch, according to company memos issued Friday.

Head of Delta #39;s Song steps down


An Algerian asylum seeker with an axe injured the two pilots on a Norwegian internal flight yesterday before being dragged screaming from the cockpit by fellow passengers.

Screaming axeman attacks two pilots


Jennifer Capriati can #39;t ever remember cramping in the middle of a tennis match. She can recall being so nervous during a warmup that she

Open is nerve center


OVERLAND PARK, Kan.Sprint Corp. and SBC Communications Inc. announced they have entered a reciprocal Wi-Fi roaming agreement. Through the partnerships, the carriers customers will be able to access each

Sprint, SBC sign Wi-Fi roaming pact


US health insurance stocks fall amid concerns that New York attorney general Elliot Spitzer will widen a probe into price rigging.

US insurers hit by probe threat


Marc Thomas returned the opening kickoff of the second half 93 yards for a touchdown, igniting Northeastern to a run of 28 straight points in just over eight minutes as the Huskies crushed the University of Rhode Island, 42-14, at Parsons Field yesterday.

Kicked into high gear


A word about Angels in the outfield, and we're not talking about the Hollywood original with Paul Douglas and Keenan Wynn, or the remake with Christopher Lloyd and Danny Glover. This is about the Anaheim fly-chasers, the ones who have not had a moment's peace since alighting on the Fens.

Rounding into form


DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - A wall collapsed at an airport construction site Monday, killing more than eight workers and injuring many more, a contractor said.    Workers at Dubai airport said they saw up to 40 casualties being taking away, but the toll could not be immediately confirmed...

Wall Collapses at Dubai Airport


ATHENS - No question where to watch the sun set on these Olympics. It was here, on the white marble slab benches of Panathinaiko Stadium, just as the bobbing gaggle of rail-thin runners made their way from Marathon.

Greece proved to be ideal host


TOKYO (Reuters) - Tokyo's Nikkei average opened 0.64  percent higher on Monday as investors took a cue from gains in  U.S. technology stocks, snapping up Toshiba Corp. and several  other lagging high-tech issues.

Tokyo Stocks Open Higher After Nasdaq


India News, Bangalore, Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar was Friday included in the 15-member Indian squad for the first two Tests against Australia.

India ; Sachin in squad for first two Tests (LEAD)


ZACH JOHNSON, a rookie on the PGA Tour, and Fred Funk share the lead after the second round. Johnson is tied with Funk atop the leaderboard when Funk bogeyed the par-4 18th hole.

Funk loses sole lead after bogey


Virgin becomes one of the first major music retailers to enter an increasingly crowded online music market.

Virgin seeks slice of net music


The ten-year deal is a major win for IBM #39;s young Engineering  amp; Technical Services unit. By Paul McDougall. Aerospace giant Honeywell International Inc.

Honeywell Outsources Chip Design to IBM


Reuters - As he lies, the young man shrugs,\flutters his eyelids and shakes his head. Another, on a witness\stand, grimaces for a millisecond as he answers a question.

Human Lie Detectors Almost Never Miss, Study Finds (Reuters)


PAKISTAN #39;S army backed by artillery and helicopter gunships demolished some  quot;terrorist hideouts quot; in an offensive against foreign militants but failed to capture a former Guantanamo Bay prisoner accused of targeting security forces in a tense tribal region

Army demolishes terror hide-outs


AP - Tokyo stocks opened lower Tuesday on concerns about higher oil prices. The dollar was down against the Japanese yen.

Tokyo Stocks Open Lower; Dollar Slips (AP)


A standartisation to SAP is part of Nortel Networks #39; restructuting plans and is part of a move that will also see 10 of its workforce, or around 3500 jobs, eliminated.

SAP migration part of Nortel #39;s cost-cutting plans


ATLANTIC CITY, NJ -- Thousands of cocktail waitresses, housekeepers, bellhops and other workers returned to their jobs today, ending a monthlong strike that hit them in the pocketbook and cost this gambling town visitors.

Casino workers end strike in Atlantic City


JERUSALEM -- Under cover of heavy fog, a trio of Palestinian gunmen slipped into an isolated Israeli Army outpost in the Gaza Strip before dawn yesterday, killing three Israeli soldiers before being shot dead by troops.

Palestinian attack on outpost stirs debate on Gaza pullout


Yoran was a software executive with Symantec Corporation when he was tapped a year ago to become director of the National Cyber Security Division in the Department of Homeland Security.

Cybersecurity chief resigns amid frustration


Rookie John Van Benschoten pitched eight strong innings to seize his first major league victory, powering the Pittsburgh Pirates past the Houston Astros 6-1 in the National League Friday.

NL Wrap: Rookie Pitcher Leads Pirates Over Astros


Iraqi militants have freed 10 employees of a Turkish construction company taken captive in Iraq in last month, the company #39;s general manager says.

Turkish hostages freed, firm says


A dazzling century from Vikram Solanki ensured that England moved into an unassailable 3-0 lead in their four-match series against Zimbabwe and allowed Michael Vaughan #39;s side to maintain their 100 per cent record in southern Africa.

Angus Fraser: Solanki puts a gloss on the shortcomings


JABALIYA (Gaza Strip) - Three Palestinians, including two children, were killed by Israeli fire in Gaza yesterday as the UN delivered aid to Palestinian families trapped in the Jabaliya refugee camp.

Israel kills 3 more including children


The Florida Gators and Arkansas Razorbacks meet for just the sixth time Saturday. The Gators hold a 4-1 advantage in the previous five meetings, including last year #39;s 33-28 win.

Jones won #39;t be enough for Arkansas


LONDON (Reuters) - Oil producers are emerging to lock in record high prices for their future crude output, but activity is modest as firms still fear calling a premature end to this year #39;s stunning price rise, traders said on Friday.

Oil Producers Emerging to Sell at Record Prices


AP - South Korea went on high alert over possible infiltration by North Korean agents Tuesday after border guards found a hole cut in a fence. The alert came as Secretary of State Colin Powell urged the North to return to nuclear talks if it wants international assistance.

S.Korea on Alert for Possible Infiltration (AP)


TORONTO (Reuters) - Electronic publisher Thomson Corp.  <TOC.TO> said on Monday it will buy test provider Capstar from  Educational Testing Service, the latest in a string of  acquisitions designed to flesh out its product offerings.

Thomson Buys Test Provider Capstar


Robbie Keane was declared fit for Spurs clash with Manchester City on Saturday afternoon and Stephen Kelly made a half-time sub appearance for Martin Jols side, but neither enjoyed particularly memorable afternoons despite their sides third

ROUND-UP Mixed fortunes for Irish as Spurs win


A volcanic eruption in Iceland has set off tremors and prompted officials to warn pilots to avoid flying through gasses emitted by the blast.

Awesome power of Iceland volcano


Dennis Christian, a descendant of mutineer Fletcher Christian, and Pitcairn #39;s postmaster, yesterday changed his plea to guilty, and admitted sexual assaulting two girls aged 12.

Guilty plea in Pitcairn sex trial


A Silicon Valley start-up called Azul Systems plans to start selling hardware next year designed to make it faster and more efficient to run Java programs.

Start-up banks on Java hardware boost


Abbott Laboratories Inc. has agreed to buy the nutrition firm EAS Inc. for \$320 million. The two companies said Monday the cash transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter, pending regulatory approval.

Abbott acquires nutrition firm EAS in deal valued at \$320 million


JERUSALEM (Reuters) - An Israeli tank killed three Egyptian  policemen on the Gaza-Egypt border Thursday, prompting an  Israeli apology for what the army said was a tragic error when  it mistook them for Palestinian militants.

Israel Apologizes After Tank Kills 3 Egyptian Police


Cambodia #39;s national assembly president left for China on Saturday to beg King Norodom Sihanouk to change his mind about abdicating, but left open the option of a new monarch being appointed.

Cambodian leader to beg king to stay on throne


PC World - Heat generated by notebook use may harm reproductive health, study says.

Researcher Warns Male Laptop Users of Infertility Risk (PC World)


Gold mining company Newmont Mining Corporation announced that operations at one of its mining projects were being scaled back due to safety concerns after a blockade of road access to the mine.

Newmont scales back Peru operations


In his strongest comments yet, Lance Armstrong said he was unsure if he would ride in next year #39;s Tour de France because he wants to compete in other cycling races.

Armstrong indicates he will skip 2005 Tour


Mary Meeker can tell you first hand about bubbles bursting. For much of the 1990s, she was called  quot;Queen of the Net, quot; for her knack for picking tech stocks and helping companies like Netscape go public.

Climbing Back Up


A new variant of the Internet worm MyDoom - Mydoom.Y - has anti-virus vendors puzzled. Not because they can #39;t do anything about it but because it comes along with a description of itself.

MyDoom Variant Describes Itself


NEW YORK -- Mel Karmazin, former president of media conglomerate Viacom Inc. , is joining Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. as chief executive, replacing Joseph Clayton, who is staying on as chairman, the company said yesterday.

Ex-Viacom president gets hired by Sirius


Mozilla appears to have another winner on its hands. Its free Thunderbird e-mail client reads e-mail from Web and POP accounts, accesses RSS feeds, and offers significant flexibility.

Mozilla #39;s Thunderbird 1.0 Shows Promise


AFP - India's second-largest software exporter, Infosys Technologies, quarterly net profit jumped 49 percent, well ahead of market expectations, thanks to a sustained outsourcing boom.

Indian IT major Infosys net profit jumps 49 percent as outsourcing booms (AFP)


Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has described his talks with Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf as  quot;very good quot;. He said the two had agreed to carry forward the composite dialogue process which  quot;augurs well quot; for the bilateral relations.

Talks with Musharraf very good: PM


The California Department of Insurance reaffirmed its opposition to the proposed WellPoint Inc. merger with fellow health care giant Anthem Inc.

Move to block health deal


KABUL, Afghanistan Oct. 6, 2004 - Campaigning for Afghanistan #39;s first direct presidential election ended with a burst of violence Wednesday as attackers set off a bomb in a failed effort to kill interim

Karzai #39;s Running Mate Survives Attack


MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico plans to host a Formula One  race in 2006 on a new track near the Caribbean resort of Cancun  after more than a decade off the circuit, officials said  Thursday.

Motor Racing: Mexico Plans F1 Race in 2006


HE firestorm over the memos that figured in the CBS News report on President Bush #39;s National Guard record featured a parade of expert document examiners who weighed in on font types, proportional spacing and superscripts.

They Are Sleuths Who Weigh Prose


BELGRADE (Reuters) - The United States on Tuesday dismissed  a U.S. newspaper report that Washington was insisting war  crimes cases linked to the Balkan conflicts should go before  domestic courts instead of the U.N. tribunal in The Hague.

U.S. Denies Report It Wants to Sideline U.N. Tribunal


Geno Auriemma has coached many great players while turning Connecticut into a five-time national champion. He will coach against one of them for the first time Tuesday night.

Coach to clash with former point guard


Thailand called for a global fund to finance landmine removal and aid for victims Monday at the first five-year review of the international treaty to ban landmines.

Thailand urges global landmine fund at first review of <b>...</b>


AP - The Forest Service exaggerated the effect of wildfires on California spotted owls in justifying a planned increase in logging in the Sierra Nevada, according to a longtime agency expert who worked on the plan.

Feds Accused of Exaggerating Fire Impact (AP)


Marat Safin overpowered Radek Stepanek 6-3, 7-6 (5), 6-3 with the help of 16 aces Sunday to win his record-tying third Paris Masters title.

Safin beats Stepanek for third Paris Masters crown


Kidnappers have released Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi #39;s cousin after taking him hostage for 12days, the Arabic-language al-Arabiya TV channel reported Sunday.

Iraqi PM #39;s cousin released by kidnappers: TV


The World Bank says it is ready to offer economic assistance to Kashmir to help promote the peace process in the region.

World Bank pledges Kashmir help


The European Union will finance over half of the cost of the African Union #39;s (AU) ceasefire monitoring and civilian protection force in Sudan #39;s troubled region of Darfur, EU foreign affairs chief Javier Solana said on Saturday.

EU to finance over half of African mission in Darfur


SAN FRANCISCO (AFP) - Marion Jones again denied taking banned drugs to help win five gold medals at the 2000 Olympics, her latest statement coming hours after the International Olympic Committee announced a steroid probe.

Jones maintains innocence as IOC begins BALCO probe


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Oil prices pierced the \$50-a-barrel  mark again on Friday amid concern over possible conflict in  Nigeria's oil-producing delta region, where a two-day truce  between rebel militia and government forces is holding.

Oil Back Over \$50, Market Eyes Nigeria


His online profile lists William P. Genovese #39;s profession as  quot;hacking bum quot; and  quot;getting arrested quot; among his likes.

City man charged with selling Microsoft source code


CAIRO, Nov 15 (AFP) - The Arab world is abuzz with suspicions that Yasser Arafat was poisoned, a theory fuelled by the lack of an official report on the cause of death of the veteran Palestinian leader despite a host of denials.

Arab world abuzz with Arafat poisoning theory


Microsoft will come out with a special version of Windows next year for clusters, but it won #39;t run on Intel #39;s most powerful server chip, at least for now.

Microsoft skips Itanium with new Windows


Englewood, CO (Sports Network) - Denver Broncos fullback Mike Anderson is expected to miss the entire 2004 season because of a severe groin tear.

Denver #39;s Anderson out for season


In light of concerns about video game violence, the release of a controversial new game isnt helping the issue. Very different from the games that are usually released each week, JFK Reloaded was released Monday.

Video game exploits death of past president


Siemens have announced the availability of a range of handsets that works with (Voice over IP) VoIP software, Skype. Simply by plugging the a USB adapter in to a computer running an updated version of Skype

Skype  amp; Siemens Bring Wireless VoIP


It was not the lowest round of his career and nor was it the best of the day. But the four-under-par 68 produced by a suffering Tiger Woods in the opening round of the American Express world championship at

WOODS #39; BRAVEST ROUND


Reuters - The U.S. Federal Communications\Commission said on Tuesday it has conditionally approved\Cingular Wireless'  #36;41 billion acquisition of AT T Wireless\Services Inc. , clearing the last big hurdle for the\deal.

FCC Approves Cingular's AT T Wireless Bid (Reuters)


After nine days of being held by kidnappers in Iraq, New York-based freelance journalist Micah Garen will reunite with his family this week, his father said yesterday.

Family waits for reunion


The rate consumers pay on a 30-year, \$200,000 home loan will likely rise 0.2 of a percentage point - an extra \$9,200 over the course of the loan - as the largest US buyer of mortgages slows growth to meet regulators #39; request to boost capital, said Kevin

Inquiry into Fannie Mae may hike mortgage cost


The RIAA continued its hard-line approach to music sharing with a round of copyright infringement lawsuits targeting 761 alleged illegal file sharers.

College Students Feel Sting of RIAA Lawsuits


Dressed in jeans and a white shirt, the men #39;s all-around champion in Athens appeared relaxed as he helped promote a 14-city gymnastics exhibition tour that kicks off at the Mohegan Sun Casino on Tuesday.

Names in the Game


Briny Baird, seeking his first win on the PGA Tour, fired a six-under-par 66 to grab the lead after the second round of the \$4.2 million Funai Classic at the Walt Disney Resort on Friday.

UPDATE 1-Baird keeps Lehman at bay in Funai Classic


JPMorgan Fleming Asset  amp; Wealth Management on Monday said it plans to buy a majority interest in and enter into a partnership with Highbridge Capital Management, a hedge funds manager, to bolster its presence among hedge funds and

JPMorgan Fleming Eyes Stake in Highbridge


Genesis mission specialists are to begin the task of examining the remains of their capsule that crashed in the Utah desert.

Scientists 'hopeful' for Genesis


THE depth and scale of the covert diplomatic manoeuvring to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was dramatically illuminated yesterday when Egyptian government officials confirmed their involvement in talks leading up to a mid-year peace conference

Mid-East summit agreed as peace efforts pay off


Reuters - A shortage of the staple food of\China's giant panda will leave 19 of the rare animals\scrounging to keep hunger at bay for as long as a decade in a\reserve in the mountainous southwest, Xinhua news agency said\on Thursday.

Pandas Face Years Before Next Favorite Solid Meal (Reuters)


Tokyo stocks finished lower Monday as investors took profits from recent gains. The US dollar fell to an all-time low against the euro and a seven-month low against the Japanese yen amid worries about the US current account and budget deficits.

Tokyo stocks finish lower, US dollar slides against euro, yen? <b>...</b>


A French court is to rule on a couple accused of failing to stop a drunk friend driving home and killing a family in a crash.

Hosts await drink-drive verdict


ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The Red Sox crept closer to the Yankees in the AL East last night, beating the Devil Rays, 10-8, on Kevin Millar #39;s two-out, two-run homer in the 11th inning.

Bosox won #39;t give in


JERUSALEM - An Israeli platoon commander is under investigation following accusations by his fellow soldiers who claim he repeatedly shot a 13-year-old Palestinian girl after she had already been shot.

Israel investigates shooting of 13-year-old Palestinian girl


Bob Jones III, the current president of Bob Jones University (famous for it's only recently ended ban on interracial dating), wrote a short congratulatory letter to recently re-elected President Bush in which he extolls the president to stay the Christian course.    Below is the text of that letter:

God has graciously granted America a reprieve from the agenda of paganism


The National League Championship Series boils down to one simple fact: The Cardinals must win today and Thursday, while the Astros need win only once, to advance to the World Series.

Beauty of making history irrelevant


Michael Sears says he dunnit. The former chief financial officer at Boeing (nyse: BA - news - people ) pleaded guilty Monday to illegally hiring a top Air Force procurement officer.

Sears: Boeing Ex-CFO Pleads Guilty In Air Force Hire


It is hard to overstate the sense of shock across much of Europe at the popular mandate that Americans have given George W. Bush, even if the result itself was no great surprise.

We Have To Talk


AP - Leading Sunni Muslim politicians Thursday urged postponement of the Jan. 30 national elections, and a senior official said the government had agreed to meet outside the country with Saddam Hussein supporters to try to convince them to abandon the insurgency.

Sunni Politicians Urge Iraq Election Delay (AP)


Stepping up its counterattack against cable TV outfits encroaching on its turf, Verizon will offer its own video packages, plus ultra-high-speed Internet access, to customers in six more

Verizon takes on cable cos.: Parts of Bay State will see benefits <b>...</b>


For a long, long time, November 2nd has been promoted as the biggest day of 2004. But that #39;s before October 9 fully came into focus.

Decision Day: 2004 Referendum


DVD players: Buying a DVD player shouldn #39;t be a problem these days, but understanding all the features crammed into it may be.

Tech Buying Guide: DVD Players and Recorders


Citroen and Peugeot have announced they will be withdrawing from the World Rally Championship at the end of 2005. The French manufacturers cited tough conditions in the car market for their decision.

Citroen, Peugeot to leave rallying


MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. --(Business Wire)-- Oct. 11, 2004 -- Mobile Digital Media (MDM), a world leader in providing high quality consumer software for mobile devices, today announced the next generation of

MDM Announces Multiplatform  #39; #39;Directions on-the-go #39; #39; -- A <b>...</b>


LONDON A British consumers #39; lobbying group has complained to the Office of Fair Trading about prices on Apple #39;s iTunes online music download service.

UK group accuses Apple of unfair download pricing


Uncertain of how long he #39;ll be able to play after having a kidney transplant, Alonzo Mourning has asked the New Jersey Nets about a contract buyout so he could go to a team with a better chance of winning.

Mourning wants buyout from Nets so he can play for a winner


AP - Christina Kim shot a 6-under 65 Friday and held a one-stroke lead over Annika Sorenstam and LPGA Tour rookie Shi Hyun Ahn after the first round of the John Q. Hammons Hotel Classic.

Christina Kim Leads Hammons Classic by One (AP)


For better or worse, the Michael Eisner era at Disney (NYSE: DIS) will be gradually coming to an end after the CEO flipped over a sandglass with two years #39; worth of granular dirt eager to trickle down.

Eyes on Eisner


One of Burma #39;s principle military rulers, General Than Shwe, is in India to strengthen political and economic ties. It is the first visit by a Burmese leader to India in the last 24 years.

Burmese Military Leaders Hold Talks in India


The floundering Orange were supposed to roll over Saturday, allowing Boston College to earn its first spot in a B.C.S. game.

Syracuse Slams the Door on B.C.'s Big East Finale


SEC gives global conglomerate a slap on the wrist for staying mum on CEO #39;s retirement package. WASHINGTON/BOSTON (Reuters) - Industrial giant General Electric got a slap on the wrist from the Securities and

GE #39;s settles on Welch perks


Congress acted Friday to block state and local governments from taxing connections that link consumers to the Internet for the next three years.

Congress blocks taxation of Internet connections


The Cuban Convertible Peso, CUC, or chavitos as they are called locally became effective this Monday substituting the widely circulated US dollar, with the Central Bank stating that control over the nation #39;s money circulation underlines sovereignty

Chavitos, Cubas new convertible currency


Two women on the seventh floor were already decorating Christmas trees, and another employee guessed that the holiday star would crown the building at Third Avenue and Pine Street, just like every year before.

Say bon voyage to Bon March name


A former waiter has filed a class-action lawsuit against a prestigious West Newton country club, contending that his employer illegally withheld thousands of dollars in tips from him and other servers.

Lawsuits filed by wait staff over tips


AP - Several California cities and counties, including San Francisco and Los Angeles, sued Microsoft Corp. on Friday, accusing the software giant of illegally charging inflated prices for its products because of monopoly control of the personal computer operating system market.

California Cities, Counties Sue Microsoft (AP)


WOOLWORTHS Ltd chief executive Mr Roger Corbett yesterday signalled a shift in the supermarket battlefront away from petrol discounting as the retail group tipped 10-15 per cent profit growth in 2004-2005.

Profit growth fuels change


The Segway coast to coast? Sure--it works, as long as you don't mind taking your time.

This week in travel tech


AP - A swiftboat crewman decorated in the 1969 Vietnam incident where John Kerry won a Bronze Star says not only did they come under enemy fire but also that his own boat commander, who has challenged the official account, was too distracted to notice the gunfire.

Swiftboat Crewman: Kerry Boat Under Fire (AP)


KABUL : A murky Taliban splinter group holding three UN hostages in Afghanistan for three weeks was silent after the hostages #39; families plead for their freedom, but the US military was hopeful they were alive and would be safely released.

US military hopeful UN hostages in Afghanistan will be released <b>...</b>


AFP - Nigeria's President Olusegun Obasanjo called for lawmakers to approve the deployment of up to 1,500 peacekeeping troops to Sudan's war-torn province of Darfur, as Khartoum pledged to restore order there.

Nigeria plans mission to Darfur as Sudan pledges to restore peace (AFP)


AP - Amateur hurricane-busters have come up with any number of crackpot ideas to spare Florida from ferocious storms. Among them: blowing hurricanes away with giant fans or blowing them up with nuclear warheads.

Groups Work on Schemes to Stop Hurricanes (AP)


AP - Secretary-General Kofi Annan, under fire in Washington over the U.N. role in Iraq, said that the United States and the United Nations have the greatest impact on global issues when they work together.

Annan: U.S., U.N. Relationship Important (AP)


Lack of agreement keeps the EU from flexing its foreign policy muscles. That is especially apparent in Darfur #39;s humanitarian catastrophe, which has ministers  quot;extremely concerned quot; but unable to enforce any action.

Unanimity Slows EU Response in Sudan


LONDON (Reuters) - Oil slid to a six-week low on Friday,  continuing a fund-led selling spree that has knocked 13 percent  from last week's record highs as rising stockpiles have eased  worries of a winter supply crunch.

Oil Falls to Six-Week Low


The Green Bay Packers #39; 28-14 win over Washington on Sunday was, of course, good news for Packers fans, but it was especially good news for Packers fans who support Sen. John Kerry.

Kerry campaign cheers Packers #39; victory


MCI (MCI), one of the nation #39;s biggest long-distance operators, lost \$3.4 billion in the third quarter because of a previously announced asset writedown of \$3.

Accounting writedown leads to \$3.4 billion loss at MCI


A top level report on artic climate change spurred by global warming has outlined possible oil industry benefits, but also many potential pitfalls.

Oil industry feels global warming heat


AP - Chris Brown has resigned himself to the thought that comparisons to Eddie George will never end. That's OK with the Tennessee Titans' new starting running back.

Titans' Brown Ready for George Comparisons (AP)


The International Monetary Fund appears to be unable to agree on a debt relief plan for the world's poorest nations.

IMF failing to agree on debt plan


SYDNEY: Anglo-Australian mining group BHP Billiton Ltd. said it had completed an off-market share buyback worth A\$2.27b (US\$1.77b).

BHP Billiton completes A\$2.27b share buyback


PHILADELPHIA (Reuters) - Insurance underwriters have sought  legal arbitration for \$250 million in damages related to  defects in some Boeing Co. <A HREF=

Insurers Seek Arbitration Vs. Boeing -WSJ


quot;India with 1.3 billion population ought to be represented in the UN Security Council and involved in the G-8 process, said Tony Blair.

India deserves to be represented in UN Security Council, G-8 <b>...</b>


AP - Pau Gasol has been in the NBA for three seasons. That's been long enough for the 7-foot Spaniard to realize he wants to keep working with Jerry West and Hubie Brown.

Memphis Signs Gasol to Multi-Year Deal (AP)


RMC Group, the world #39;s largest maker of ready-mixed concrete, today accepted a 2.3bn takeover bid from Mexico #39;s Cemex, the world #39;s third-largest cement maker.

Cemex snaps up RMC for 2.3bn


Pakistan #39;s President Pervez Musharraf, who took power in a bloodless coup in 1999 on the grounds he could provide stable democracy, is strongly hinting he will not step down as army chief at the end of this year as promised.

Musharraf May Remain as Pakistan #39;s Military Chief


The EU has welcomed the approval of a rescue plan for Italy #39;s Alitalia, but shares in the loss-making airline have fallen as union and competitor

Alitalia #39;s survival fight goes on


No matter what one thinks of Microsoft Corp., the company's reach is so expansive that it nearly always makes news, even when there's little or no media attention at the time. <FONT face=

Microsoft Takes Stands Against Spam, Sanctions


NEW YORK - Sony Corp has conceded to demands from its consortium partners to reduce fees it would get from managing Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.

Sony agrees to partners #39; terms to reduce distribution fees in MGM


Aircraft maker Airbus (EAD.PA: Quote, Profile, Research) insisted on Thursday it had no intention of taking sides in a Microsoft (MSFT.

Airbus Denies Backing Microsoft in EU Case


National League Division Series Game 4 - Atlanta Braves at Houston Astros. From Minute Maid Park in Houston. 1 pm ESPN. American League Division Series Game 5 - Boston Red Sox at Anaheim Angels.

SPORTS ON TV


BUJUMBURA, Burundi -- Burundi and Rwanda threatened yesterday to send soldiers into neighboring Congo to hunt down Hutu extremists responsible for slaughtering more than 160 Congolese Tutsi refugees at a UN camp in Burundi -- deployments that could reignite a regional conflict in this part of Africa.

Burundi, Rwanda threaten Congo invasion


AP - Congressional investigators recommended Tuesday that the Census Bureau not include Americans living abroad as part of the U.S. census in 2010.

Probe Recommends Against Overseas Census (AP)


NASA will launch a craft tomorrow afternoon for a computer-controlled rendezvous in space - the first time the agency will attempt such a feat without a pilot at the controls.

NASA to fly space drone


AP - Environmentalists and two Maryland Democratic congressmen chastised the Bush administration Wednesday for proposed regulations they said will not do enough to reduce mercury contamination of Maryland rivers, lakes and the Chesapeake Bay.

Groups Chide U.S. on Mercury Regulations (AP)


AP - Chased out of Florida by Hurricane Ivan, the Marlins were forced to play a home game on the road and still cut their gap in the NL wild-card race. Florida rallied with six runs in the bottom of the eighth inning, taking advantage of four Montreal errors to beat the Expos 6-3 Monday at U.S. Cellular Field.

Marlins Win at Temporary Home in Chicago (AP)


AFP - Interbrew said its first-half profit rose 19.9 percent and maintained its 2004 full-year targets, saying the diversity of its beer brands around the world helped smooth out bumpy markets.

Interbrew pumps 19.9 pct rise in first-half profit, holds targets (AFP)


TOKYO : Japanese automaker Honda is to spend 340 million dollars to quadruple capacity at its joint plant with Dongfeng Motor in Wuhan, China, to 120,000 units by 2006.

Honda to invest US\$340 million to boost auto output in China


SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Oil prices slipped toward \$54 a  barrel on Tuesday, breathing easier after a Norwegian strike  threat receded but still anxious over the thin state of global  pre-winter heating oil supplies.

Oil Prices Slide Toward \$54


Vivendi Universal increases its stake in Morocco's national telecoms business, days before it is partially floated.

Vivendi boosts Moroccan stake


Market research firm Gartner reported worldwide growth of PDA shipments for the third quarter of 2004, with Windows CE outpacing Palm OS installations for the first time.

Windows CE surpasses shipments of Palm OS for the first time


BEA Systems Inc. is planning to release this week a new version of its application suite targeted at its ISV partners. WebLogic Platform ISV Edition is an integrated suite that features core BEA technology

BEA #39;s WebLogic Bolsters Partners #39; Offerings


Middle East News, GAZA, Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas has called for his people to pursue negotiations instead of violence in the struggle for a state, marking out a change of strategy for peace with Israel after Yasser Arafat #39;s death.

Middle East ; Abbas calls on Palestinians to end armed struggle


LONDON -- Prince Charles' tirade against people who aspire to lofty goals beyond their natural talent earned him a rare public rebuke from a senior government minister yesterday -- and gasps of disbelief from the British media.

Prince's views on education rebuked


AP - Chomping on a cigar, his unruly ponytail flowing from his cap, Miguel Angel Jimenez smiled as he said,

Garcia, Jimenez Favorites at Home for Cup (AP)


AP - Police said Wednesday they have received some tips in their effort to determine who threw a chair during the brawl that broke out during last week's Pistons-Pacers game.

Police Seek Chair Thrower in NBA Brawl (AP)


AP - Google Inc. has bought digital map maker Keyhole Corp., extending the search engine leader's bid to fend off rivals with a toolbox that can catalog almost anything in the world.

Google Buys Digital Mapping Company (AP)


BOSTON (CBS.MW) -- Merck  amp; Co. shares fell more than 10 percent Monday on a news report that the company may have known for years that Vioxx, the pain reliever it recently withdrew from the market, could cause cardiac problems in some patients.

Merck sinks on Vioxx risk report


The spotlight returned to Marion Jones last night, dimmer but harsher than four years ago. The warming glow is gone, the celebrity tarnished by

Determined Jones jumps into finals


The economy grew at a 2.8 percent annual rate from April through June, as oil prices limited consumer spending and contributed to a record trade deficit.

U.S. Growth Pace for 2nd Quarter Is Revised Downward, to 2.8


November 10, 2004  If you #39;ve needed an excuse to buy a new phone, now you #39;ve got one, provided that you have some extra cash lying around: SK Telecom and KTF said yesterday that they will begin offering video phone services in Korea within a couple of

Talking face to face, far away


Update Buys Chinese phone software firm to speed release

PalmSource to build Palm OS on Linux


NEW YORK, Oct. 25 -- The new head of Marsh   McLennan Cos., Michael G. Cherkasky, has three key traits working in his favor: clean hands, a reputation for toughness and the right friends.

Ex-Prosecutor Becomes Chief at Firm in Crisis


New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Sunday said that the European Commissions proposal to bestow  #39; #39;strategic partnership #39; #39; to India will be formalised at the coming India-European Union Summit hosted by the Netherlands Prime Minister Jan Belkende.

#39; #39;Strategic partnership #39; #39; to be formalised at summit: PM


WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush has signed a law  aimed at bolstering human rights and market reforms in North  Korea, officials said on Tuesday.

Bush Signs Law to Boost North Korean Human Rights


SINGAPORE (Dow Jones)--Singapore shares ended lower Friday, tracking regional markets on renewed concerns that the sagging US dollar against the Singapore dollar will hurt exports and economic growth.

Singapore Shares End Down On Weak US Dlr, Indus Output


Hanoi - Vietnam #39;s death toll from flash floods triggered by Typhoon Muifa has risen to 11, officials said on Saturday. The deaths all occurred in central Vietnam, with Quang Ngai, Quang Nam and Thua Thien-Hue

Typhoon claims 11 lives


Reuters - New applications for U.S. home loans\rose last week to their highest level in four months even\though mortgage rates ticked upward from their recent lows, an\industry group said on Wednesday.

Mortgage Applications at 4-Month High (Reuters)


The SCO Group, committed to an expensive legal attack against Linux, said Tuesday it has removed some financial uncertainty from its future by working out an agreement to cap payments to its law firm.

SCO to cap legal expenses


The hurricane season is finally over today. Seven storms hit the Southeast, three indirectly affecting us. The worst hit Florida. Mother Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne made their presences known in there

Hurricane Season Ends


Nokia Corp. said deals with Visto Corp. and Good Technology Inc. to expand the messaging options on its handsets. Nokia has a similar agreement with Visto and Good rival Research In Motion Ltd.

Nokia extends messaging options in handsets


A sudden, measurable decline in market share in any product over the course of a few months says something, even if that product is one whose producer still holds about 90 of the market in question.

Firefox browser sees surge in use


A Pentagon report on claims of sexual assault says US air force commanders failed to recognise the problem.

US air force 'deaf to sex claims'


St. Petersburg, FL (Sports Network) - Tampa Bay Devil Rays centerfielder Rocco Baldelli is scheduled to undergo knee surgery on Friday.

Devil Rays outfielder Baldelli to have surgery


Wal-Mart announced Monday that it plans to open or expand up to 45 of its flagship discount stores and up to 250 Supercenters in the United States next year.

Wal-Mart To Open, Expand Stores Next Year


Donald Trump is betting a deal with bondholders to cut the debt on his hotel and casino empire through a pre-arranged bankruptcy will give him a stronger hand in the gaming industry.

Trump Hotels strikes bankruptcy deal


AP - European Union governments on Friday permanently banned chemicals used to soften plastic from being used in toys, saying they are harmful to young children who put toys in their mouths.

EU Nations Ban Phthalates From Toys (AP)


I am taking time out from trying to take the jockeys #39; championship off Kieren Fallon for a weekend in Paris but don #39;t worry - there is a lot of business to be done there.

Mamool a fresh horse


Japanese and Chinese officials were trying to arrange a meeting between the leaders of their two countries on the sidelines of a weekend summit to try to calm rising tensions, authorities said.

Japan, China try to smooth over tensions


More than 100 protesters denounced a proposal to build a baseball stadium, vowing that Mayor Anthony Williams will face stiff opposition.

Williams Faces Fight


Although he was well-beaten by Retief Goosen in Sunday #39;s final round of The Tour Championship in Atlanta, there has been some compensation for the former world number one, Tiger Woods.

Tiger pushes Ernie into third


Stelios is tapping his feet to the rhythm of a new venture in the form of easyMusic, to be launched in time for Christmas. The easyGroup company has teamed up with London-based music service Wippit to launch

easyGroup enters online music market with 25p downloads


WASHINGTON - Call it the law of unintended consequences. A new national backup system meant to ensure that millions of eligible voters are not mistakenly turned away from the polls this year, as happened in 2000, could wind up causing Election Day problems as infamous as Florida's hanging chads...

New Backup Voting System May Pose Problems


National Semiconductor has lowered its revenue expectations for its second business quarter. The new guidance for the quarter calls for revenues to range from \$445m to \$450m, down about 18 per cent to 19 per cent sequentially.

National trims sales expectations


SEPTEMBER 16, 2004 (REUTERS) - Airespace Inc. a Silicon Valley telecommunications services start-up, won a partnership with IBM that will help Airespace grab a piece of the growing market for Wi-Fi services, the two companies said yesterday.

Airespace partners with IBM on Wi-Fi service


Alpharetta-based AtheroGenics announced positive interim results Monday from a clinical trial of its drug to treat atherosclerosis, which leads to coronary heart disease.

Drug: Test results excite Alpharetta maker


Alitalia has reached agreement with the Italian government on a 400m euro (275m) loan to aid the restructuring of the struggling airline.

Alitalia secures 400m euro loan


Dropshop, a Munich-based start-up that auctions products on the Internet for those too lazy or perplexed to do it themselves, has raised 9 million euros (\$10.

Web Auctions Start-Up Nets Funding for Expansion


To Understand the tortured relationship between the great city of Boston and the equally great city of New York - in life as well as in baseball - look no further than Game

No escape from  #39;Curse of the Bambino #39;


he Labor Department reported last week that 144,000 payroll jobs were created in August. Let #39;s put that in perspective. The number was below market forecasts.

An Economy That Turns American Values Upside Down


Moody #39;s Investors Service upgraded the debt ratings for Lucent Technologies on Friday, citing the company #39;s adequate funds, stabilizing revenue and progress in improving profitability and cash flow.

Moody #39;s upgrades Lucent Technologies debt ratings


STOCKHOLM, Sweden - Andre Agassi had little trouble reaching the Stockholm Open quarterfinals, beating Jonas Bjorkman 6-3, 6-4 Thursday.

Agassi wins in straight sets again


Patent office rejects one of four patents on File Allocation Table format for Windows, though Microsoft can appeal.\

Microsoft FAT patent falls flat


A technological weapon against unwanted ''spam quot; e-mails that has been embraced by leading Internet companies doesn't work as well as its developers had hoped, according to a new study.

Popular spam fighter's effectiveness questioned


Jacques Santini, who resigned as Tottenham #39;s head coach nine days ago citing  quot;private issues quot; in his personal life, last night ignited a bitter feud with the north London

Santini opens up over Spurs  #39;divorce #39;


Mizuki Noguchi of Japan held on for the gold and American Deena Kastor used a late burst for a stunning bronze medal finish Sunday night in the Olympic marathon.

Noguchi wins marathon, Kastor gives United States a surprising <b>...</b>


com. Those numbers each represent something important for the Yankees, who wrapped up the American League East title on Thursday night with a 6-4 win over the Minnesota Twins.

Bernie #39;s blast clinches AL East


The French Ministry of Defense has awarded an \$8.6 million contract to a consortium of companies, including Linux vendor Mandrakesoft, to develop a highly secure version of Linux for business, defense and government uses.

French Defense Ministry commissions high-security Linux


India News  gt; Paris, Sept 28 : Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has said that the ongoing peace process with India was encouraging.

Mush says situation with India encouraging #39;, Manmohan sincere :


Reuters - The Nikkei average rose 1.24 percent by\mid-morning trade on Monday as a recovery in U.S. stocks\encouraged investors to seek bargains among lagging issues,\including Hitachi Ltd. and other high-tech firms.

Japan Stocks Higher, Led by Tech Rebounds (Reuters)


AP - Prairie dogs, those little pups popping in and out of holes on vacant lots and rural rangeland, are talking up a storm. They have different

Scientist: Prairie Dogs Have Own Language (AP)


After recently being diagnosed with breast cancer, Deanna Favre has a simple, heartfelt message for women everywhere. I definitely, definitely, definitely think women should know how to properly

Deanna Favre ready for cancer fight


The Russian basketball champions, CSKA Moscow, said Friday that they were disappointed that the Utah Jazz of the NBA had pulled out off a planned exhibition match Oct. 8 in Moscow because of security fears.

No game in Moscow for the Utah Jazz


Aon, the world #39;s second largest insurance broker, yesterday denied its brokers had ever steered business to favoured insurance companies as a way of generating bigger commissions.

Aon  #39;comfortable #39; with past behaviour


PRIME Minister Mr John Howard was yesterday forced to defend Mr Alexander Downer in relation to the Foreign Ministers comments that Australia was not bound to help the US defend Taiwan.

Howard says help at hand


Irvine-based Gateway refreshed its lineup of personal computers yesterday, introducing two new Media Center PCs. The company #39;s 3250X Media Center PC and 7200S Media Center PC both use Microsoft #39;s new Windows

Gateway Launches New Media Center PCs


Halliburton Co. , the world #39;s No. 2 oil field services company, on Tuesday posted a third-quarter net loss as charges from its asbestos liability weighed.

Halliburton Posts \$44 Million Loss


ROME : The bird flu epidemic in Asia is a  quot;crisis of global importance quot; and the virus is unlikely to be eradicated soon, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) warned.

Bird flu virus unlikely to be eradicated soon, warn global bodies


Reuters - Environmentalists urged fishing nations\Thursday to do more to protect the rare Patagonian toothfish,\dubbed the

More Protection Urged for Rare Toothfish at CITES (Reuters)


The San Diego Chargers and rookie quarterback Philip Rivers agreed to terms on a six-year contract, ending the first-round draft pick #39;s three-week holdout.

Chargers, QB Rivers make deal nfl roundup


SAN FRANCISCO - Intel Corp. #39;s shares fell more than 7 percent yesterday, a day after the computer chip giant #39;s management lowered the company #39;s financial projections after concluding businesses and consumers aren #39;t in a spending mood.

Intel stock tumbles 7 after lowered outlook


As the European Union approaches a contentious decision - whether to let Turkey join the club - the Continent #39;s rulers seem to have left their citizens behind.

Wariness over Turkey #39;s EU bid


CONCORD, NC  Jimmie Johnson won the UAW-GM 500 Saturday night, but the overwhelming drama of the race was the uncanny comeback of his mentor and teammate, Jeff Gordon, from two separate wrecks to finish second.

Johnson hangs on for win


HEAVY rain has delayed the start of the ATP Masters Cup final in Houston, Texas, and forced organisers to trim the title match from a best-of-five sets to a best-of-three format.

Hewitt clash cut short


Intel has introduced a new addition to its line of budget Celerons and a new chipset. The new products will spearhead its attack on the Christmas market with a view to fending off the challenge of AMDs new Sempron range.

Intel intros new budget Celerons and chipset


roundup Plus: Sun draws Nvidia graphics into Solaris...Tibco scoops up software company...PeopleSoft extends customer assurance.

Briefly: Piracy crackdown yields \$2.2 million


Astronomers have found what they are calling the perfect cosmic storm, a galaxy cluster pile-up so powerful its energy output is second only to the Big Bang.

A Cosmic Storm: When Galaxy Clusters Collide


Coach Matt Williams warned against the danger of complacency when Scotland face Japan at McDiarmid Park in the second of the Autumn Tests on Saturday.

WILLIAMS WARY OF COMPLACENCY


Letters Reg readers applaud sillytech

Nose-controlled mouse not to be sniffed at


David Beckham broke his rib moments after scoring England #39;s second goal in Saturday #39;s 2-0 win over Wales in a World Cup qualifying game.

England captain Beckham breaks a rib


Visiting Chinese President Hu Jintao said Friday that he appreciates Brazil #39;s announcement of recognizing China #39;s market-economy status.

Hu praises Brazil for recognizing China #39;s market-economy status


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

SBC opens up Wi-Fi roaming


There are no US players left in either singles draw, with Jennifer Capriati and Lindsay Davenport being bundled out in the women #39;s semifinals.

All Russian tennis final


Three sailors were injured yesterday after fire broke out on a submarine sold by the Royal Navy to Canada. Chicoutimi had left Faslane in Scotland on Monday after a lengthy refit as part of the sale of four submarines.

Fire aboard ex-Navy sub on way to new owner


ZURICH (Reuters) - Switzerland's Basilea is in talks with a  subsidiary of healthcare and consumer products maker Johnson    Johnson over a licensing agreement for the Swiss biotech firm's  BAL5788 antibiotic.

Basilea in Talks with J J Over Antibiotic


LONDON -- IBM said Monday that it won a 500 million (\$972 million), seven-year services contract to help move U.K. bank Lloyds TBS from its traditional voice infrastructure to a converged voice and data network.

IBM inks \$972M voice, data deal with Lloyds


Paul Byrd pitched eight strong innings and Eli Marrero homered to help the Atlanta Braves extend their winning streak to four games with a 7-1 victory over the Montreal Expos on Friday night.

Braves 7, Expos 1


Reuters - Extra armed police patrolled the streets\of the Bangladeshi capital and traffic was light on Sunday, a\working day, as shocked Bangladeshis woke up to the aftermath\of grenade blasts that killed at least 16 people.

Bangladesh Awakes in Shock as Blast Toll Hits 16 (Reuters)


Federated Departments Stores Inc. said Monday that Hurricane Jeanne will hurt third-quarter earnings by 1 cent to 2 cents per share, further lowering an outlook already cut because of lost sales from Hurricane Frances.

Federated Hurt by Hurricane Jeanne


EXPECT to see and hear Creative Technology everywhere as it embarks on a worldwide marketing campaign to snatch dominance of the digital music player market from Apple Computer.

Creative declares war on Apple


HOUSTON (Reuters) - Jeff Kent's three-run homer in the  ninth inning gave Houston a 3-0 win over the St Louis Cardinals  Monday to move the Astros within one game of reaching the World  Series for the first time in their 43-year history.

Kent Gives Astros 3-2 Series Lead Over Cards


US stocks closed higher on Monday after a drop in oil prices eased worries about high energy costs, although disappointing earnings from diversified manufacturer 3M Co.

US stocks gain as oil falls


THE death of Philippine movie star and defeated presidential candidate Fernando Poe has drawn some political backlash, with some people seeking to use his sudden demise as a platform to attack President Gloria Arroyo.

Poe death prompts Arroyo attack


AP - The Justice Department said Friday it will stop trying to block Oracle Corp.'s hostile  #36;7.7 billion takeover bid for rival business software maker PeopleSoft Inc.

Justice Dept. Won't Appeal Oracle Ruling (AP)


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

Citigroup's Krawcheck to Get No. 2 Post


A summit of French-speaking nations will now concentrate on the civil war in Ivory Coast, ministers say.

French group seeks Ivorian peace


In KVault Software, Veritas is getting the No. 1 maker of e-mail retrieval tools, an analyst says.

Veritas to buy maker of e-mail storage tools


An official with the Homeland Security Department #39;s National Cyber Security Division said the 120-person office has been able to limit the harmful effects of at least one virus and has helped to track down online criminals in 28 countries.

Technology ; Experts push for more US computer security efforts


BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A loud blast was heard in the Iraqi  capital Baghdad on Tuesday and could have been caused by a car  bomb, a police source said.

Blast in Baghdad, Could Be Car Bomb-Police


AP - B. Thomas Golisano, the billionaire founder of Paychex Inc., said Monday he has hired a former IBM Corp. executive, Jonathan Judge, to replace him as president and chief executive of the payroll-processing company.

Paychex Inc. Founder Golisano Steps Down (AP)


Staking Donald Trump to some badly needed cash, a judge signed off Wednesday on a \$100 million loan that will keep his casinos open while his company #39;s bankruptcy case winds through the courts.

Update 1: Court OKs Trump Hotels Bankruptcy Package


European astronomers sighted the planet orbiting a Sun-like star, mu Arae, in a southern constellation called the Altar and which is bright enough to be seen with the naked eye.

#39;Super #39; Earth found


By Sundeep Tucker in London and Scott Morrison in San Francisco. The board members of Calpers, the Californian state pension fund, will this morning start the process of choosing a new president following this week #39;s abrupt ousting of Sean Harrigan.

Calpers begins its search for new leader


Alan Webb is outmaneuvered and outrun as he failed to make it out of the preliminary round in the 1,500 meters.

Webb Ousted in Prelim


Tehran/Vianna, Sept. 19 (NNN): Iran on Sunday rejected the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) call to suspend of all its nuclear activities, saying that it will not agree to halt uranium enrichment.

Iran Rejects IAEA Call On Halt To N-Plan


Batteries not included, Sopranos not recordable

Windows Media Center survives in shrinkwrap purgatory


Reuters - President Bush accused Democrat\John Kerry on Monday of

Bush Accuses Kerry of New Contradictions on Iraq (Reuters)


ATHENS (Reuters) - World 100 meters champion Torri Edwards  will miss the Athens Olympics after her appeal against a  two-year drugs ban was dismissed Tuesday.

World 100m Champion Torri Edwards Banned from Games


CROOKS HAVE reopened their online store to flog the stolen source code of Cisco #39;s PIX firewall software. The Source Code Club were offering the nicked Cisco code for a mungingly cheap \$24,000, also up for

Hackers reopen stolen code store


Several obstacles remained in the way of a blockbuster trade being discussed Thursday night, a three-team mega-deal that would reportedly send Arizona ace Randy Johnson to the New York Yankees and would also include fellow All-Stars Shawn Green and Javier

#39;Big #39; blockbuster has big obstacles


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

Alcoa Cautions About Below-Market Offer


MIDDLESBROUGH, Aug 24 (SW) - Michael Reiziger will be sidelined for the coming six to eight weeks. The player dislocated his shoulder a few weeks ago and is unable to play on.

Michael Reiziger out with shoulder injury


Reuters - Madagascar has identified the\additional forests, wetlands and marshes it wants to protect\under a plan to triple the size of its nature reserves by the\end of 2008, a global conservation group said on Friday.

Madagascar Readies More Protected Nature Sites (Reuters)


Although seven adapters have overheated, no injuries or deaths have been reported. The adapters where shipped with Latitude, Precision and Inspiron laptops sold through Dell #39;s Web site and customer

Some Dell AC Adapters Recalled


Two female Italian hostages seized in Baghdad three weeks ago have been freed on Tuesday and are safe, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi says.

Italian hostages in Iraq released


New Delhi: India #39;s tennis ace Leander Paes partnering David Rikl of Czech Republic lost to third-seeded pair of Mark Knowles (Bahamas) and Daniel Nestor (Canada) 3-6, 3-6 in the men #39;s doubles US Open championship in New York.

Leander-Rikl lose in US Open doubles finals


NEW YORK Aug. 27, 2004 - Consumers became a bit more optimistic toward the end of the August but still felt more cautious on the US economy than they did a month ago, according to survey by the University of Michigan.

Survey: Consumers Cautious on US Economy


Crude oil futures prices rose Wednesday because of lingering concerns about heating oil supplies and fears that OPEC could rein in output when it meets later this week.

Update 8: Oil Prices Rise on Heating Oil Concerns


India News: New Delhi, Dec 9 : India Thursday expressed concern at a US decision to sell sophisticated weapons to Pakistan, saying it would adversely affect the  quot;sensitive quot; India-Pakistan peace process as well as growing India-US ties.

#39;US arms to Islamabad could impact India-Pakistan ties #39; (LEADS <b>...</b>


The focus of this action-packed game shifts from that of 007 himself to the corrupt underworld and its criminal masterminds. Players wreak havoc as they make their unrelenting rise through the ranks of villainy.

GoldenEye: Rogue Agent Ships


AP - Within the next few days, CBS News expects to name an independent panel of experts to scrutinize its reporting of President Bush's National Guard service after its defenses for airing the explosive story crumbled.

CBS to Name Panel to Exam Bush Guard Story (AP)


ABIDJAN, 7 December (IRIN) - South African President Thabo Mbeki ended his mediation in Cote d #39;Ivoire having wrangled promises from all sides to revive the flagging peace process.

COTE D IVOIRE: All sides pledge commitment to peace process again <b>...</b>


This week I purchased the ingredients for Red Thai Curry, a fantastic dish I was first introduced to at Bangkok Pavilion in my wonderful home of Kansas City. It has fantastic, varied texture, a medley of rose-tinted colors, and a scent sure to get any curry enthusiast's saliva glands working overtime.  After returning from the grocery store with my bag of goodies, I wasted no time in preparing my meal.  My shopping list included:    1 bag sticky sushi rice  1 can coconut milk  Red Thai curry paste  fresh basil leaves  fresh anise leaves  1 green bell pepper  1 red onion  1 tomato  1 bag frozen peas  lemon grass  Total time from preparation to serving is about 45 minutes, so set aside at least an hour just in case there's an unforeseen complication.

Red Thai Vegetable Curry


p2pnet.net News:- A Microsoft UK  quot;WEIGHING THE COST OF LINUX VS. WINDOWS? LET #39;S REVIEW THE FACTS quot; magazine ad has been nailed as misleading by Britain #39;s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

MS anti-Linux ad  #39;misleading #39;


Crude oil futures settled above \$50 for the first time ever on Friday, fueled by concerns about supply in Nigeria and the continuing slow pace of production recovery in the hurricane-ravaged Gulf of Mexico, traders said.

Crude oil exceeds \$US50 a barrel


TORONTO - One of two Canadian teams competing for a \$10-million US-prize has delayed the launch of its rocket. The rocket launch was set to take place in Kindersley, Sask.

Launch of Canadian manned space mission on hold


Canadian Press - KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP) - The United Nations' food relief agency is gearing up for a

UN food agency steps up Sudan aid as rainy season approaches (Canadian Press)


LOS ANGELES (Zap2it.com) - Following his role as a hired killer in  quot;Collateral, quot; Tom Cruise will host this year #39;s Nobel Peace Prize concert.

Tom Cruise, Oprah Co-Host Nobel Concert


IBM on Friday unveiled the latest in its line of next-generation iSeries servers, the most powerful one to date, in its i5 line of systems based on the Power5 chip.

IBM unveils high-end Power5 i5 server


LONDON (Reuters) - Oil prices dipped below \$46 on Tuesday,  making a third day of falls as a more optimistic Iraq export  picture unwound some of the supply worries that have lifted the  market to historic levels.

Oil Slips Below \$46 as Iraq Flow Rises


Utilities mutual funds are on a tear, but investors shouldn't expect a repeat performance next year.

Utilities Funds Soar. But Are They Oil-Powered?


The advisory board for the World Community Grid comprises health science, technology and philanthropy experts from such organizations at the National Institute of Health, the US Environmental

IBM Builds World Community Grid for Scientific Research


WASHINGTON - President Bush's nominee to be CIA director, Rep. Porter Goss, told critics who say he's too partisan for the job that he understands the importance of independent, objective intelligence, despite his nearly 16 years as a Republican partisan in Congress...

CIA Nominee Goss Vows to Be Bipartisan


COVINGTON, La. - Retired Louisiana pharmacist George Boudreaux hasn't needed Madison Avenue pitchmen to get the word out about his concoction to treat diaper rash...

A Rash Product That Sells Itself


Web services software vendors AmberPoint and Systinet are now selling an integrated suite of software for service-oriented architectures, featuring products from both companies.

Web services software vendors offer SOA package


Eighteen Democratic state senators say the Romney administration must gain legislative approval before moving ahead with a proposal to change the way high-risk drivers are apportioned among auto insurance companies in Massachusetts.

High-risk driver plan hit by senators


Tony Blair paid tribute to the chancellor #39;s handling of the economy today and made a pre-election promise to hand more power to the British people.

Blair aiming for  #39;opportunity and security #39;


Reuters - Millions of people in the Americas\stayed up on Wednesday to observe a total lunar eclipse that\bathed the moon in a coppery red glow and gave scientists a\chance to study the Earth's atmosphere.

Millions in Americas Watch Lunar Eclipse (Reuters)


Shanghai, China (Sports Network) - Rubens Barrichello won the pole for Sunday #39;s Grand Prix of China Formula One race. The No.2 Ferrari driver circled the 3.387-mile, 14-turn Shanghai International Circuit in one minute, 34.

Barrichello grabs inaugural pole in Shanghai


AP - Blacks prefer Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry over President Bush by a nearly 4-to-1 margin, though their support for the Democrat is down slightly from the backing Al Gore received in 2000, according to a poll released Tuesday.

Poll: Kerry Has Wide Support Among Blacks (AP)


The first images that hide a virus inside them have been found in a pornographic newsgroup on the net.

Poison porn pics show up online


Dubai - Britain #39;s department of affairs on Sunday launched a televised appeal on an Arab satellite channel for Iraqis to help rescue British hostage Kenneth Bigley who faces a death threat along with two US kidnap victims.

UK calls for Iraqis to help


British Prime Minister Tony Blair is planning to call general elections in February, ahead of schedule, to maximise his present opinion poll advantage over his opponents.

Blair launches ad blitz for early polls


Microsoft announced that it will continue its per-processor licensing model with the introduction of dual-core and multicore processors.

Microsoft: A single license for a dual processor


Reuters - America West Holdings Corp.  on\Thursday said it would not bid for assets of bankrupt carrier\ATA Airlines, saying the value does not justify the cost.

America West: Will Not Bid for ATA (Reuters)


TAIPEI, Taiwan Aug. 24, 2004 - Typhoon Aere lashed northern Taiwan on Tuesday, closing schools, grounding flights to northeast Asia and dumping rain that threatened to cause deadly flash floods and landslides.

Typhoon Aere Lashes Taiwan #39;s Capital


Zimbabwe #39;s Parliament has sentenced to a year in jail one of its three white members for knocking down a government minister, the BBC reported Friday.

Zimbabwe #39;s Parliament jails white member


European leaders urged President Bush to work closely with America #39;s allies on issues like terrorism and the environment in his second term, while critics of the president worried re-election would embolden him to pursue conservative policies

World: Mixed Reviews For Bush


Fast on the heels of its announcement that Russia would be the fourth of five countries in a pilot program of a low-cost, limited-functionality version of Windows XP, Microsoft named India as the fifth country.

Fifth Windows XP  #39;Lite #39; Country is India


The UN says Fiji has become the first nation to offer troops specifically to protect its staff in Iraq.

Fiji agrees to protect UN in Iraq


AP - This chemistry lesson takes a strong stomach: It starts with grinding up fish in a big blender.

Alt-School Gives Students Second Chance (AP)


GEORGETOWN, United States : Controversial Disney Co. chief executive Michael Eisner has been tough and unflappable defending himself this week against shareholder charges that he wasted 140 million dollars by taking on Michael Ovitz as president in 1995.

Disney chief #39;s reputation on the line in battle with shareholders


A Vatican cardinal returns a precious Russian icon to the  Orthodox Church in Moscow as a gift from the Pope.

Pope returns rare icon to Russia


Telstra Corporation has announced details of its plan to invite all shareholders to participate in a \$750 milion off-market share buy-back.

Telstra #39;s \$750 million Share Buy-Back


Arsene Wenger has responded to Gus Hiddink #39;s suggestion that he is a moaner by accusing the Dutchman of letting emotion get the better of him.

Wenger hits back at Hiddink


Pictures distributed by Egyptian interior ministery Monday Oct 15 2004 showing from left to right, Palestinian refugee born Ayad Said Saleh, Egyptian Sinai Bedouins Suleiman Ahmed Saleh Flayfil , his brother Mohamed Ahmed Saleh Flayfil and Hammad Gaman

Palestinian Blamed for Twin Sinai Attacks


ATHENSIt was like a funeral. One by one they came to pay their respects to Alexandre Despatie, widower of an Olympic dream to which he #39;d been married since childhood.

Dream in the tank


LONDON (Reuters) - Mexican cement company Cemex said on  Monday it had spent about 432 million pounds (\$780 million)  buying an 18.8 percent stake in RMC Group <A HREF=

Cemex Buys 18.8 Percent Stake in RMC


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Oil prices fell 3.5 percent to a  three-month low on Tuesday as mild winter weather sapped demand  in the U.S. Northeast, the world's largest heating oil market.

Oil Prices Tumble to a Three-Month Low


Top-ranked Southern California makes a statement with a dominating 45-7 victory over fifteenth-ranked Arizona State on Saturday.

Trojans Protect Ranking


Gold Fields Ltd. may bring forward the date for shareholders to vote on its proposed \$2.1 billion purchase of Canada #39;s Iamgold Corp.

Gold Fields May Bring Forward Vote on Iamgold Bid (Update3)


This summer, the grower-owners of Ocean Spray voted to remain independent. Now, the cooperative is pushing a plan of attack to survive against much bigger rivals.

Beyond the bag


The price of crude oil surged past an unprecedented \$55 per barrel Monday amid continued uncertainty over production, high demand and tight supply globally.

Update 1: Crude Oil Price Surges Past \$55 in Asia


ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri on Friday vowed that Pakistan would never neglect or sideline the Kashmir issue and that it would be resolved according to the wishes of Kashmiris.

Pakistan cannot sideline Kashmir, says Kasuri


In this era of wild-card entries and best-of-five-game playoff series, a talented team can stroll through the regular season, fire its manager, pick up its pace and find

Cardinals Demonstrate How to Build a Sturdy Lead With Heavy Lumber


ABC apologized Tuesday for beginning this week #39;s Monday Night Football telecast with a tease sequence in which Nicolette Sheridan, star of ABC #39;s top-rated domestic drama, attempted to seduce

ABC apologizes for intro on  #39;Monday Night Football #39;


Hyperion said it hopes to encourage other firms to join its clean-driving campaign and has launched a group called the Companies for Clean Air Consortium.

Software Firm To Subsidize Employees #39; Hybrid Cars


JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South African President Thabo  Mbeki has invited warring parties in the conflict in Ivory  Coast to peace talks and the meeting could take place this  week, Mbeki's spokesman said on Wednesday.

S.Africa Says to Host Ivory Coast Peace Talks


Sony has launched two portable digital audio players that for the first time support the MP3 file format, other than its Atrac file format.

Sony MP3 Players Finally Debut