Judge orders chief operating officer Radler, 2 more, off Hollinger <b>...</b>

TORONTO (CP) - An Ontario judge has ordered three directors removed from the board of Hollinger Inc., including Conrad Black #39;s wife, Barbara Amiel-Black, company co-chief operating officer David Radler and vice-president Jack Boultbee.


El Paso shareholders vote to keep auditor

Shareholders in natural gas pipeline company El Paso Corp. (EP.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Thursday rejected a bid to fire PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP as the company #39;s


New Fossil May Be Close Ancestor of Great Apes and Humans

A husband-wife fossil-hunting team in Spain has excavated the skeleton of a 13 million-year-old creature they believe is close to the last common ancestor of modern great apes and humans.


Major Security Patch Overhaul For Oracle

Oracle (Quote, Chart) has overhauled its security patch policy after a growing number of complaints from customers and even its own executives.


Study: VoIP costs all over the map

com November 18, 2004, 4:04 PM PT. Wired  amp; Wireless continues its reign as the top IT priority among IT managers due to widespread IP telephony deployment and other network infrastructure upgrades.


Turkey of the Week: The NFL Hypocrisy

Clear Channel, Cincinnati. To the hypocrisy of the NFL, a bird comes your way. A promo airs before  quot;Monday Night Football quot; featuring Nicolette Sheridan from the  quot;Desperate Housewives quot; show and Terrell Owens of the Eagles.


Blazers reportedly mull blockbuster trade for Carter

The Toronto Raptors and Portland Trail Blazers are in talks about a seven-player blockbuster deal that would grant Vince Carter his wish to get out of Toronto, ESPN reported Thursday.


MLB delays vote to move Expos

CBC SPORTS ONLINE - Major League Baseball owners tabled Thursday #39;s vote to relocate the Montreal Expos to Washington. According to baseball commissioner Bud Selig, the owners will likely vote before the winter meetings on Dec. 6.


US claims on Iran  quot;undermined quot; by Iraq

False warnings about Iraq #39;s nuclear capabilities have undermined similar US claims about the dangers of Iran #39;s activities, a former chief weapons inspector has said.


Scotsman praised as media urged to keep Dafur in spotlight

POLITICIANS and aid agencies yesterday stressed the importance of the media in keeping the spotlight on the appalling human rights abuses taking place in the Darfur region of Sudan.


PM arrives in Chile for APEC

PRIME Minister John Howard joined world leaders from across Asia and the Pacific today for the 12th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders #39; meeting.


US expected to boost troop levels in Iraq

Some question whether it will be enough to quell the violence and worry about the impact of prolonged tours. Amid a spike in violence in Iraqi cities coinciding with the Fallujah offensive, the US military


New European Commission endorsed by EP

The revised team of European commissioners headed by Jose Manuel Durao Barroso was approved by the European Parliament (EP) on Thursday.


Torre Glad Yankees Pursuing Pedro (AP)

AP - New York Yankees manager Joe Torre would love to have Pedro Martinez in his rotation  #151; just as he'd love to have any great starting pitcher.


Donovan Claims Soccer Player of Year Again (AP)

AP - Landon Donovan was voted the U.S. soccer team player of the year Thursday, becoming the first three-time winner.


Gold Fields loses again

Gold Fields #39; latest legal bid to prevent a hostile takeover by South African rival Harmony was thrown out by regulators yesterday in another blow to its defence strategy.


Nike Co-Founder Knight Steps Down as CEO

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Philip Knight, the co-founder of  Nike Inc. NKE.N, is stepping down as chief executive officer,  the athletic shoe company said on Thursday.


Sirius Names Mel Karmazin as Its CEO

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - In the latest coup for the  fledgling satellite radio industry, Sirius Satellite Radio Inc.  SIRI.O on Thursday named former Viacom Inc. President Mel  Karmazin as its chief executive officer.


Vietnam hits out at US anti-dumping shrimp tariffs

HANOI (AFP) - Vietnam has hit out at a decision by the United States to uphold anti-dumping duties on imports of Vietnamese shrimp.


Dollar Rallies from Record Low Vs. Euro

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The dollar rallied on Thursday from a  record low against the euro as traders attempted to square  positions ahead of a meeting of G20 finance ministers this  weekend.


Google Shares Slump on Revenue Outlook

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Shares of Google Inc. GOOG.O  fell almost 3 percent on Thursday, after the Web search leader  warned it could not sustain in revenue growth rate, a sign that  it could report disappointing fourth-quarter results.


UPDATE 1-Stelco fails to reach labor deal by GM deadline

Stelco Inc (STEa.TO: Quote, Profile, Research) said it will not reach a new labor agreement with the union at its Lake Erie Works by midnight on Thursday, meaning Canada #39;s No.


Calif. insurance chief sues four insurers in kickback probe

SAN DIEGO California #39;s insurance commissioner says a San Diego company took kickbacks from four major insurance companies in exchange for winning contracts with major US companies.


Fossilised ape skeleton could be evolution #39;s missing link

An extinct ape that lived 13 million years ago has been identified as the leading contender for the title of last common ancestor of humans and all great apes alive today.


Many still await MSN, Yahoo e-mail upgrades

Microsoft #39;s Hotmail and Yahoo have promised to boost storage limits for their free e-mail services, but for many users, the upgrades haven #39;t been delivered.


Casey voices regret after e-mail barrage

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


Regent: CU needs to restore confidence

University of Colorado Regent Jim Martin said Thursday the university must take swift, sure action to restore public trust after the disclosure of a critical audit of a fund-raising organization and a private football camp run by head


Ministers criticise Prince #39;s  #39;out-dated #39; views on schooling

Two of the Cabinet #39;s senior members criticised the Prince of Wales yesterday, saying his views on schools, which emerged during a discrimination case, were old-fashioned, out-dated and wrong.


Dispute over commissioners ends after MEPs finally approve <b>...</b>

Jose Manuel Barroso, the European Commission President, yesterday won the big majority from MEPs he needed for his new team of commissioners, as a three-week political crisis ended.


Robinson Signs Deal to Manage Expos in DC (Reuters)

Reuters - On the day Major League\Baseball owners delayed the vote to finalize the move of the\Expos to Washington, DC, the club on Thursday signed manager\Frank Robinson to a one-year contract.


Robinson Signs Deal to Manage Expos in DC

VIERA, Florida (Sports Network) - On the day Major League  Baseball owners delayed the vote to finalize the move of the  Expos to Washington, DC, the club on Thursday signed manager  Frank Robinson to a one-year contract.


Roddick Blasts Way Past Safin Into Masters Semis

HOUSTON (Reuters) - Andy Roddick out-muscled Russia's Marat  Safin 7-6, 7-6 on Thursday to win a battle of the heavy hitters  and a place in the Masters Cup semi-finals.


Canadian PM expels anti-Bush MP

Paul Martin dismisses an MP from the ruling Liberal Party because of her outspoken criticism of US President George W Bush.


SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Nike Inc. NKE.N co-founder  Philip Knight, who helped transform a small start-up into the  world's biggest athletic shoe company, will step down as chief  executive officer, the company said on Thursday.


76ers Score Record-Low 6 Points in Quarter (AP)

AP - The Philadelphia 76ers set a dubious team record Thursday night by scoring just 6 points in the first quarter against the San Antonio Spurs.


No. 12 Maryland Tops George Mason 78-54 (AP)

AP - Chris McCray and Nik Caner-Medley each scored 20 points and 12th-ranked Maryland limited George Mason to four first-half baskets in a 78-54 victory Saturday.


Sirius Names Karmazin CEO, Shares Jump (Reuters)

Reuters - Sirius Satellite Radio Inc.\ on Thursday named former Viacom Inc. President Mel\Karmazin as its chief executive, in the latest migration of a\mainstream radio heavyweight to the fledgling satellite\industry.


Sirius Names Karmazin CEO, Shares Jump

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Sirius Satellite Radio Inc.  SIRI.O on Thursday named former Viacom Inc. President Mel  Karmazin as its chief executive, in the latest migration of a  mainstream radio heavyweight to the fledgling satellite  industry.


Leaders reassure Pakistan-US ties remain strong

Presidents George W. Bush of the United States and Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan met Saturday to emphasize that ties between their nations remain strong, despite Islamabad #39;s decision to scale back its search for Osama bin Laden.


The Local Scene-Some local talk about Sears-Kmart merger

Wednesday #39;s announcement that Kmart is acquiring Sears in an \$11 billion deal spawned a lot of questions and comments at the Rolla outlets of the two companies.


Dollar falls to 103.75 yen on remark by Snow

The dollar slipped close to its lowest level of the year Thursday in Tokyo, entering 103 yen territory as market players dumped the currency in the belief that the United States tacitly approves of its weakening.


Scientist blasts FDA over Vioxx, says other drugs pose similar <b>...</b>

The recently withdrawn painkiller Vioxx may have caused as many as 139,000 heart attacks, strokes and deaths, a government drug-safety scientist told lawmakers on Thursday.


Briefs: Russia to pay IMF debt early

President Vladimir Putin told the director general of the International Monetary Fund, Rodrigo Rato, on Thursday that Moscow was ready to pay off its debts early because the budget was benefiting from soaring prices for Russia #39;s energy exports.


Disney 4Q Earnings Rise to \$516 Million

Walt Disney Co. said Thursday that profit jumped 24 percent in the fiscal fourth quarter, driven by growth at its television networks, theme parks and consumer products businesses.


Nike Co-Founder Knight Steps Down as CEO

Nike Inc. (NKE.N: Quote, Profile, Research) co-founder Philip Knight, who helped transform a small start-up into the world #39;s biggest athletic shoe company, will step


Courses to help teach you

LOS ANGELES (CBS.MW) - The California Public Employees #39; Retirement System, the largest public US pension fund, has tendered its 1.5 million shares of PeopleSoft Inc.


Stocks to Watch Tuesday

Dealers said Smith Barney cut its rating on the stock of  Amazon.com to "sell" from "hold" on concerns over sales during  the year-end period.


Nation/World

Forty percent of Americans in a new survey say the quality of health care has gotten worse in the past five years compared with just 17 percent who see improvement.


Fossil may fill gap in evolution

A 13-million-year-old fossil found in Spain may be that of the last common ancestor to all living great apes, including humans, researchers reported Thursday.


IBM tops server speed test

IBM #39;s new top-end Power5-based Unix server has a commanding lead in a performance test of servers running a large database. A \$16.7 million configuration of the company #39;s eServer p5-595 performed 3.21 million


Energy Secretary Gets Mixed Reviews at Los Alamos

Los Alamos employees like the University of California #39;s benefits, its academic reputation and the chance to send their children to UC at in-state prices.


Microsoft adds support to Unesco IT education plan

Microsoft has added its support to the efforts of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) to apply IT to education initiatives in developing countries.


Australia four back as Ireland, Austria grab World Golf lead

Australia is four shots from the lead after the opening fourballs round of the World Cup golf event in Spain, with Stephen Leaney and Nick O #39;Hern tied for sixth on 8-under.


Kenteris, Thanou charged for crash

Greek authorities have charged athletes Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou with avoiding a drug test prior to the Athens Olympics and then faking a motorcycle accident.


McMurray best of the rest in NASCAR

Jamie McMurray clinched 11th place in the Nextel Cup points standings by finishing in fourth place at Darlington Raceway last Sunday.


Webb two off Sorenstam #39;s pace

Karrie Webb shot an opening round of four-under par 68 to be two shots behind Annika Sorenstam at the LPGA Tour Championship at Trump International golf course.


Early breakthrough to Kasper

Michael Kasprowicz dismissed Daniel Vettori in just the fifth over of the session to reduce New Zealand to 8 for 264 on the second day of the Gabba Test this morning.


Stubblefield eyes NCAA receptions mark

But he admits he never expected to be on the brink of breaking the NCAA career receptions record when he first arrived in West Lafayette five years ago.


Prince Charles chastised for  #39;old fashioned #39; views

LONDON: A British minister launched a scathing attack on heir to the throne Prince Charles on Thursday, accusing him of being  quot;very old fashioned quot; and out of touch in his views on teaching in schools.


APEC Ministers Prepare for Two-Day Summit

Ministers and officials from the 21 Asia and Pacific Rim economies continue their work in Santiago, Chile, in preparation for the two-day summit of leaders from APEC - the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum.


Ivory Coast rebel ministers suspended after failing to end cabinet

ABIDJAN : The Ivory Coast government suspended former rebels from the cabinet after they failed to attend a first government session since the country #39;s latest crisis, citing security reasons.


Death penalty call in E Guinea

Equatorial Guinea #39;s state prosecutor has called for the death penalty for a South African man accused of taking part in an alleged coup attempt.


Relief goods airlifted to stricken areas as weather begins to <b>...</b>

REAL, QuezonHelicopters delivered food to famished survivors and picked up casualties as the weather cleared Saturday in villages ravaged by back-to-back storms that slammed into Northeastern Luzon.


Mother of murder victim Reena Virk wishes offender well at parole hearing (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - VANCOUVER  (CP) - Warren Glowatski has served enough time in prison for the murder of Reena Virk and should be granted parole Friday, the victim's mother said Thursday.


Feinstein Warns Goss Against CIA Reforms (AP)

AP - A Democratic senator warned CIA Director Porter Goss Thursday that his efforts to make major changes could have "a significant and negative effect on the agency."


Voice loss 'threat' to workforce

Germs, dust and central heating are partly to blame for an epidemic of voice loss which plagues UK workers, says a report.


Profits Are Up 24 at Disney and So, It Says, Is Teamwork

Buoyed by the strong performance of ESPN and its other cable channels, the Walt Disney Company said that its profit rose 24 percent in the fourth quarter.


Garamendi settles with San Diego broker in exchange for <b>...</b>

Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi says his settlement with San Diego-based Universal Life Resources is just the beginning of a deepening investigation.


Microsoft boss the world #39;s most  #39;spammed #39; person

Email users inundated with unsolicited  quot;spam quot; messages have reason to hope Microsoft will develop better tools for tackling the problem: Bill Gates is suffering more than anyone.


AOL upgrades with security tools

America Online subscribers will receive a raft of new and enhanced security services as part of their standard package with the launch of AOL 9.0 Security Edition, the latest upgrade of the company #39;s fee-based, consumer-focused online service.


Oracle Moves To Quarterly Security-Patch Cycle

Oracle #39;s new quarterly security-patch schedule departs from its monthly schedule, which Microsoft also uses. By George V. Hulme.


Golf: Sorenstam seizes early lead at season-ending event

WEST PALM BEACH, United States : Swedish star Annika Sorenstam shot a six-under-par 66 in the first round at the season-ending one million dollar ADT Championship.


AP: Holtz to Retire, Spurrier May Get Job (AP)

AP - Lou Holtz will retire as coach at South Carolina after the season, The Associated Press learned Thursday night, apparently paving the way for Steve Spurrier to replace him.


Aussie misses out on Miss World

AUSTRALIAN Sarah Davies has missed out on being crowned Miss World 2004 at the finals of the beauty pageant in China. Twenty-year-old Miss Peru was crowned today in the southern Chinese resort town of Sanya


Fears over five more big-selling medicines in US

A senior United States drug official last night said he believed at least another five medicines at present on sale needed further scrutiny in the wake of recent health scares.


Reuters moves to sell Instinet

Reuters, the media and information group, is understood to have appointed investment bankers to explore the sale of Instinet, its American electronic stock trading business.


Audits of wealthy rise 40

Audits of high-income taxpayers rose 40 in fiscal year 2004, while audits of large corporations rose 34, the IRS said Thursday. IRS officials said the numbers show the agency is


Australia, China Cos. to Look for Nickel

Australian nickel miner WMC Resources will explore for nickel and copper in western China in a joint venture with China #39;s Jinchuan Group, the companies said Friday.


Fossils Found in Spain Seen as Last Link to Great Apes

Scientists in Spain have discovered fossils of an ape species from about 13 million years ago that they think may have been the last common ancestor of all living great apes, including humans.


Dell offers Media Center on the cheap

Dell customers can upgrade from Microsoft Windows XP to Dell #39;s XP Media Center operating system for half the price as part of a promotion running from now until Nov. 22.


DNA company fires analyst

Orchid Cellmark, a Maryland-based DNA laboratory that has worked on many high-profile cases, has fired an analyst for allegedly falsifying test data.


Apple iPod from HP (iPodhp)

You #39;ve already seen our New Users #39; and Power Users #39; reviews of Apple #39;s fourth-generation iPod (iPodlounge rating: A-/B).


Racist chanting puts Madrid bid at risk

Racial abuse of black players during England #39;s friendly against Spain has seriously jeopardised Madrid #39;s chances of staging the Olympics in 2012, according to members of the International Olympic Committee.


No. 19 North Carolina State Pounds Elon

RALEIGH, NC (Sports Network) - Julius Hodge poured in a game-high 21 points as 19th-ranked North Carolina State routed Elon, 71-45, in the semifinal round of the BCA Invitational at the RBC Center.


Bucs #39; McFarland tears triceps muscle

SPORTS NETWORK - Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Anthony McFarland is likely sidelined the rest of this season because of a torn triceps muscle.


French leader backs cooperation with Britain but maintains stance <b>...</b>

Europe needs to become a power on the international stage, able to stand alongside the United States in shaping a fairer world order, President Jacques Chirac of France said last night.


Commandos set to storm Mosul

MOSUL: Iraqi commandos backed by US troops were preparing to storm insurgent strongholds in the city of Mosul yesterday as US-led forces continued their bid to clear the city of rebels.


Security Further Tightened In Jammu

JAMMU, IHK : Nov 19 (SADA) - In occupied Kashmir, security apparatus has been further beefed up in the winter capital Jammu with additional deployment of police and para military personnel ahead of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh #39;s arrival here


Ratification of Kyoto Protocol serves Russian interests: FM <b>...</b>

Russia #39;s ratification of the Kyoto Protocol marks a new phase in the international cooperation to deal with the global warming and serves the country #39;s interests, Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Yakovenko said Thursday.


Officials monitor possible locust threat around-the-clock-Jordan

Jordan has so far not been affected by the swarms of desert locusts that plagued Egypt on Wednesday with authorities here saying they are ready to deal with any emergency.


Oracle Takeover Approval Seen

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Oracle Corp. ORCL.O on Thursday  won the backing of a key public pension fund in its  \$8.8-billion takeover bid for PeopleSoft Inc. PSFT.O and  analysts said they expected a majority of shares to be tendered  its way ahead of a Friday deadline.


Continental Seeks \$500 Mln in Labor Cuts

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Continental Airlines CAL.N said  late on Thursday it would seek \$500 million in annual wage and  other concessions from its workers to avert more losses largely  caused by record high fuel prices.


ETA Bombs Put Radical Basque Party in Tight Spot

The armed Basque separatist group ETA showed it was not a spent force with Friday #39;s coordinated attacks at five Madrid petrol stations, but it also further isolated the guerrillas #39; closest political allies, Batasuna.


For Merck Chief, Credibility at the Capitol

In a hearing before the Senate Finance Committee, the chairman and chief executive of Merck   Company was treated gently, inspite of bad news about Vioxx.


No. 24 Memphis Rolls Past St. Mary's 81-66 (AP)

AP - Rodney Carney scored a career-high 33 points and Memphis ended the surprising tournament run of Saint Mary's with an 81-66 victory Thursday night in the semifinals of the Coaches vs. Cancer Classic.


A Presidential Fraternity Helps Clinton Open Library in Arkansas

Members of many of the nation's past and present first families dedicated Bill Clinton's library in Little Rock, Ark., on Thursday.


No. 19 North Carolina State Pounds Elon

RALEIGH, N.C. (Sports Network) - Julius Hodge poured in a  game-high 21 points as 19th-ranked North Carolina State routed  Elon, 71-45, in the semifinal round of the BCA Invitational at  the RBC Center.


FIFA Under Pressure to Stamp Out Racism

LONDON (Reuters) - FIFA is under pressure to act decisively  following the racist abuse directed at England players during  Wednesday's friendly against Spain in Madrid.


A Coach and a Player Prove You Can Go Home Again

In returning to their roots, Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau and Chargers tight end Antonio Gates have emerged as this season's unsung heroes.


Vivendi ups Moroccan phone stake

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


Nintendo Prepares Weekend Launch of New Handheld

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A generation of children grew up  playing Nintendo Co. Ltd.'s 7974.OS Game Boy handheld video  game system, and now that they've grown up, Nintendo has a new  toy for them.


China pledges efforts in fight against terrorism, corruption

Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing vowed Thursday in Santiago to make joint efforts with other members of the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in the fight against terrorism and corruption.


UN sees surge in Afghan opium exports

A UN report -- noting while opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan was up 64 percent the past year, opium production had only increased 17 -- has still led one UN official


Prince Charles embroiled in class controversy

Britain #39;s Prince Charles was embroiled in a class controversy on Thursday, a day after a note expressing his candid thoughts about people who try to rise above their station in life was made public.


Kashmir: Problem Won #39;t Go Away with Some Troops

No, the verdant Kashmir Valley did not witness the return of peace this Wednesday. Quite a few Indians, however, may have rubbed their eyes as they saw on the television screen truckloads of


Microsoft Warns Asian Governments of Linux Suits

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp. MSFT.O warned Asian  governments on Thursday they could face patent lawsuits for  using the Linux operating system instead of its Windows  software.


D.C. College Students Targeted in Piracy Suit

The recording industry's lobbying group today sued three users of American University's computer network, accusing them of illegally sharing digital music files online. They are among 761 suspected music pirates in the latest round of lawsuits. -washingtonpost.com


Ex-Viacom Chief Karmazin Joining Sirius Satellite Radio

Mel Karmazin, the former president of media conglomerate Viacom Inc., is joining Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. as CEO, replacing Joseph Clayton, who is staying on as chairman, the company announced Thursday.


Group Cites E-Voting Problems

The record use of electronic voting machines on Nov. 2 led to hundreds of voting irregularities and shows the need for higher standards, a voting rights group said Thursday.


XML security device unveiled

Web-services security company releases appliance designed to authenticate access into business networks.


Plenty to learn about services

Conference focuses on challenges in services sector, such as how irritating Web-based self-service can be.


State bill could kill city Wi-Fi

Backers of a Philadelphia Wi-Fi project are worried that a bill going through the state legislature would spike a plan to blanket the city with free or inexpensive wireless access. Broadband Blog


Calif. retirement fund tenders PeopleSoft shares

Calpers joins group of big PeopleSoft investors backing a \$9.2 billion Oracle buyout.


Start-up pitches high-end Web apps on the cheap

ActiveGrid lands multimillion-dollar funding for plan to use open-source tools, low-cost servers for Web applications.


Congress approves supercomputing bill

Following report of security inadequacies, Congress passes bill for \$165 million in new supercomputing funds.


IBM tops server speed test

New top-end Power5-based Unix server has commanding lead in performance test of servers running a large database.


AOL, Oracle tackle software safeguards

Worried about spyware? spam? "spim"? AOL wants to set your mind at rest. Also: Putting patches in place.


Air Force turns to Microsoft for network security

New deal aims to simplify and protect Air Force networks by introducing standard configurations.


Following trend, Oracle sets schedule for patches

Releases dates of quarterly bulletins for 2005 to allow companies to better plan system updates.


Study: VoIP costs all over the map

Companies trying to deploy Internet phone calling face varied costs depending on the technology provider, according to a report.


VoIP: Today Des Moines, tomorrow the world

Federal ruling makes Internet phone providers roll out services more actively.


Photo: Super-slim TV tubes

LG.Philips Displays' new picture tube line allows for thinner televisions.\


Slimmer tube TVs to challenge flat panels

Television makers say 16-inch-thick tube sets will arrive next year at a fraction of the price of thin rivals.


Wanna buy an iPod, guv?

Apple's new store in London's West End has a 64-seat theater and a staff that speaks 24 languages.\<br />\  Photos: iPod lands in London


Segway CEO scoots from company

Ron Bills will take off next month, leaving Segway to find the fourth CEO in its short history.


Dell offers Media Center on the cheap

PC maker promotion lets customers upgrade from Windows XP Home to Windows XP Media Center Edition for half the price.


Photos: iPod lands in London

Apple's new London store on Regent Street puts the iPod music player front and center.


Photo: Dell's Photo All-In-One Printer 962

Dell's Photo All-In-One Printer 962 prints, scans, faxes and copies for \$179.


IT Forum: Exchange users to get more tools

Although Microsoft won't announce the release date of the next version of its Exchange Server until next year, users can expect more management tools for existing versions in the meantime.


LI firm #39;s cancer drug approved

A breakthrough cancer drug made by a Long Island company won federal approval late Thursday in a major victory for cancer patients and the region #39;s budding biotech industry.


Russian target Abramovich hit by 400m tax bill

Chelsea football club #39;s owner, Roman Abramovich, has been hit with a 400m tax bill relating to his Russian oil company Sibneft, according to local reports, raising fears that he could be the next oligarch targeted by President Vladimir Putin in the


University researchers challenge Bush win in Florida

According to researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, counties with electronic voting machines were significantly more likely to show increased support for President Bush compared to counties with paper ballots or optical scan equipment.


Bill Gates gets 4 million emails a day

The next time you #39;re sifting through the mortgage offers, cheap Rolex watches or dubious business proposals from Nigeria, spare a thought for Bill Gates.


Ape discovery fills gap in evolutionary jigsaw

Scientists have found fossilised remains of what could be the last common ancestor to all the great apes living today. It will give scientists vital clues in charting the course of primate and, ultimately, human evolution.


IBM Breaks Computing Speed Barrier

IBM announced that an IBM POWER5(TM) processor-based IBM eServer(TM), running DB2 Universal Database(TM), has attained a milestone in computing history, soaring past the barrier of three million transactions per minute on the TPC-C benchmark and setting


Spotted owl remains a threatened species, government says

GRANTS PASS, Ore. - After a review prompted by a timber industry lawsuit, the federal government announced Thursday that the northern spotted owl, the icon of logging wars in the Northwest, will remain on the threatened species list.


Racing: Best Mate in shape to hold challenge of Rembrandt

Today #39;s The Day. Every blade of grass has been inspected and passed fit, every weather forecast scanned. Best Mate will, short of an overnight declaration of Armageddon, make his seasonal


Cavaliers 106, Bobcats 89

LeBron James helped break the game open late in the second quarter by driving baseline for a windmill dunk, one of three crowd-pleasers among James #39; 19 points in Cleveland #39;s 106-89 victory Thursday night over Charlotte.


UN warning over Afghan opium

Afghanistan #39;s poppy cultivation increased by almost two-thirds this year and accounts for 87 of world supply of raw opium, a UN report said yesterday, warning of the country #39;s descent into a drugs-based economy.


Ministers line up to attack Charles as  #39;patronising #39;

The dispute between the Prince of Wales and the Government over education intensified last night when a second Cabinet minister rebuked the prince for claiming the current system fuelled unrealistic ambitions.


Junta frees prisoners in Burma

Burma #39;s military government began releasing almost 4,000 prisoners yesterday whose detentions were ruled irrelevant or improper, state-run radio and television said.


Bush seems primed for Mideast push

But the most important entry on Middle East watchers #39; list is George W. Bush: in for four more years. The recent death of Arafat, the Palestinian Authority president, creates an opportunity for the United


Gateway expands Media Center PC lineup

Media Center PCs allow users to record live television, burn DVDs and organize their digital media files.


New Google Scholar search service aimed at academics

It lets users search for scholarly literature such as peer-reviewed papers, theses, abstracts and technical reports from resources such as academic publishers, universities, professional societies and preprint repositories.


Streaking Spurs Roll Past Sixers 88-80 (AP)

AP - Tim Duncan scored a season-high 34 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead the San Antonio Spurs to their fifth straight victory, 88-80 over the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night.


Microsoft, Yahoo extend contract for Web ads

The move comes at a time when Microsoft is sharpening its own tools and expertise in the area.


Salesforce.com continues strong customer growth

Company experiences 80 gain in customers in one year, to nearly 200,000.


Cards' Smith, Berry, Dansby Questionable (AP)

AP - Arizona starters Emmitt Smith, Bertrand Berry and Karlos Dansby are questionable for Sunday's game at Carolina after sitting out the Cardinals' practice on Thursday.


Britain to Send Christmas Gifts to Troops (AP)

AP - Pipes and pencils will be replaced by cameras and games when a 90-year-old royal tradition of sending gifts to British troops abroad is revived this Christmas, a defense spokesman said Thursday.


W3C highlights Mobile Web Initiative at workshop

Group seeks to make Web access for mobile device users as easy as it is for desktop users.


Palestinians Seek Int'l Election Monitors (AP)

AP - Palestinian officials appealed Thursday for international monitors to help with their presidential elections and urged Israel's unilateral plan to withdraw from the Gaza Strip be folded into a stalled international peace plan.


Oracle: PeopleSoft investors should tender shares

With tomorrow's deadline approaching, Oracle today made another plea to PeopleSoft stockholders to tender their shares, telling them, "The choice is yours."


No. 19 N.C. State Demolishes Elon 71-45 (AP)

AP - Julius Hodge scored 17 points on his 21st birthday to join an exclusive group of Atlantic Coast Conference players, leading No. 19 North Carolina State past Elon 71-45 Thursday night in the semifinals of the BCA Invitational.


Rural leaders put heat on Tory government as Alta election looms (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - EDMONTON (CP) - With just days to go before Monday's provincial election, Alberta's Tory government is taking some heat from rural municipal leaders over its provincial water policy and the handling of the mad cow crisis.


Google sees benefits in corporate blogging

Google, which implemented an internal Web log system behind its firewall about 18 months ago, has seen tremendous benefits from it and may in the future consider providing tools and expertise for this purpose to interested clients, a Google executive said.


Do software users need indemnification?

If purchasing software were as straightforward as buying a car, users would not have to think twice about the risk of intellectual property lawsuits.


Patent hoarders intensify protection issue

The chances of a user being sued for intellectual property (IP) infringement related to software usage are slim, industry observers say. But that may change, as some companies hoard patents for the express purpose of using them to extract money from sellers and users of software.


Oracle to deliver security patches on quarterly basis

Starting Jan. 18, Oracle will provide security patches for all of its products on a quarterly basis, a schedule it believes is most convenient for customers.


Yahoo, SBC extend partnership, plan new services

Yahoo and SBC Communications will collaborate to extend to cell phones and home entertainment devices some of the online services and content they currently provide to PC users.
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AOL developing file-backup service

America Online Inc. (AOL) is developing a new service that will let its members back up files from their PCs on AOL data centers, so that the members will be able to recover files either deleted accidentally or lost due to a hard drive failure, an AOL executive said.


Exchange users to get more tools

Microsoft Corp. will announce the release date of the next version of its Exchange Server in the first half of 2005, but until the upgrade arrives users can expect more management tools for existing versions, a company executive said this week.


AOL Developing File-Backup Service

Members could have automatic access to easy backup on AOL servers.


Microsoft, Yahoo Extend Contract for Web Ads

Renegotiation may provide glimpse into Microsoft's search plans.


Study Claims E-Voting Irregularities Found in Florida

Even if so, state presidential results wouldn't shift.


Enter your e-mail:

Lycos Europe has found an attractive, but controversial, way to generate buzz about its business - give common folk the power to attack spammers.


Belgian and Italian Banks Talk of Partnership

Dexia, the Belgian financial services firm, and Sanpaolo IMI, the Italian bank, confirmed that they were in discussions about a partnership.


Russia Seeks to Prosecute Two More at Yukos

The Russian government issued an arrest warrant for the chief lawyer for Yukos and arrested a midlevel executive at a company subsidiary.


Eisner Regrets Praising Ovitz on  #39;Larry King #39;

In a interview on CNN #39;s  quot;Larry King Live quot; in September 1996, Michael D. Eisner, chief executive of the Walt Disney Company, praised its former president, Michael S. Ovitz.


Dollar Holds Gain on Concern Group of 20 Will Object to Decline

The dollar held a one-day gain in Asia on speculation policy makers will express concern at its recent decline during a meeting of officials from the Group of 20 largest economies this weekend.


#39;Lite #39; beer brand puts fizz into SABMiller profits

The low-carbohydrate American beer Miller Lite, which is locked in a bitter brand war with its rival Bud Lite, was the star performer for SABMiller, helping the brewer to a 28 rise in half-year underlying operating profits.


Gas leak from oil platform off SoCal triggers evacuation of crew

OXNARD - A leak of explosive natural gas forced dozens of workers to evacuate an offshore oil platform for hours Thursday but no damage or injuries were reported.


AOL 9.0 is Security Minded

American Online (AOL) is releasing a new, more secure browser. Included in the package are a firewall, antivirus and a popup blocker all courtesy of McAfee - also included are dozens of other small utilities designed to keep users safe.


IBM Says It Swamps Rivals in Key UNIX Computer Test

IBM IBM.N said on Thursday its workhorse commercial computers have smashed the industry #39;s most demanding tests, which analysts said creates a performance gap that could


Ferdinand almost quit Spain game

Rio Ferdinand has said he was ready to come off the field after Spanish fans hurled abuse at England #39;s black players in Wednesday #39;s match.


Second-Ranked Wake Forest Beats Virginia Commonwealth

WINSTON-SALEM, NC (Sports Network) - Chris Paul scored 16 points to lead No. 2 Wake Forest over Virginia Commonwealth, 81-67, in the quarterfinal round of the Preseason NIT.


Takeover offer for Sunderland FC

Bob Murray, the chairman of Sunderland, is seeking to take full control of the football club after buying out fellow shareholder BSkyB.


Jaguar negotiates 534m Ford aid

Ford will inject 534m into Jaguar, after the UK car maker had to cover a writedown on its investments following a drop in production.


N.Korea Denies Removal of Leader Kim Portraits-Xinhua

Reports that portraits of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il had been removed were a  quot;groundless fabrication, quot; China #39;s Xinhua news agency quoted a Foreign Ministry official on Friday as saying in Pyongyang.


Pacers' Bender Out Indefinitely with Knee Injury (Reuters)

Reuters - Indiana Pacers forward\Jonathan Bender will be out indefinitely due to his chronically\injured left knee.


Pacers' Bender Out Indefinitely with Knee Injury

INDIANAPOLIS (Sports Network) - Indiana Pacers forward  Jonathan Bender will be out indefinitely due to his chronically  injured left knee.


Touchdowns and Milestones Pile Up for Martin

Jets running back Curtis Martin needs just 16 yards on Sunday to become the second player to reach 1,000 yards in 10 consecutive seasons.


Giants' Manning Gets Some Brotherly Advice: 'Don't Trip'

Eli Manning, who will start his first professional game at quarterback on Sunday, insisted he would not try to establish his legacy in three hours.


Ready to Get Started

Cavaliers coach Pete Gillen believes his team is better than last season, but the improvement may not be enough to help Virginia contend in the Atlantic Coast Conference.


Passing Marks in Peril

Peyton Manning is on pace to shatter Dan Marino's single-season touchdown record and a second quarterback, Daunte Culpepper, is within striking distance of the mark.


Memphis Stops St. Mary's

Rodney Carney scores a career-high 33 points and Memphis ends the surprising tournament run of Saint Mary's with an 81-66 victory.


Gilchrist Keeps Working

The 15th-ranked Terps will look to John Gilchrist to take a central leadership role as they open the season against Jackson State.


Dollar Sticks Near Lows

TOKYO (Reuters) - The dollar stayed in sight of historic  lows against the euro on Friday as traders braced for a meeting  of G20 finance ministers that is not expected to act against  the dollar's weakness.


For Merck Chief, Credibility at the Capitol

Something finally went right yesterday for Raymond V. Gilmartin, the embattled chairman and chief executive of Merck  amp; Company.


Less Power, More Money for Sears Boss

Alan J. Lacy will not be the top man at Sears, Roebuck  amp; Company any longer if the announced merger with Kmart is completed. But he will receive a raise and could take out more than \$20 million by cashing out his existing options on Sears stock.


Sirius Names Mel Karmazin as Its CEO

In the latest coup for the fledgling satellite radio industry, Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. on Thursday named former Viacom Inc. President Mel Karmazin as its chief executive officer.


UnumProvident Accepts Penalty

The UnumProvident Corporation agreed to pay \$15 million in fines and reassess 200,000 denied claims to end investigations by attorneys general of several states


PeopleSoft Chief Threatens to Sue Over Oracle Statements

With Oracle #39;s \$9.2 billion tender offer for PeopleSoft set to expire Friday, David A. Duffield, PeopleSoft #39;s chief executive, accused Oracle on Thursday of spreading


SABMiller #39;s profits soar 81

SABMiller, the worlds third biggest brewer, poured out a strong interim trading performance yesterday - as it also said it had a potential warchest of up to \$2 billion (1.08bn) if a major acquisition opportunity occurred.


French Growth Halted in Third Quarter (AP)

AP - France's economic growth ground to a halt in the third quarter of 2004, the official statistics agency Insee said Tuesday, reducing its earlier estimate of a 0.1 percent expansion.


Rayovac to Buy United Industries (Reuters)

Reuters - Battery maker Rayovac Corp.  on\Tuesday said it would buy United Industries Corp., a maker of\lawn and garden products, for about  #36;476 million in cash and\stock in a bid to diversify its product mix.


Microsoft warns Asian governments of Linux suits

NOVEMBER 18, 2004 (REUTERS) - Microsoft Corp. warned Asian governments today that they could face patent lawsuits for using the Linux operating system instead of its Windows software.


U2 iPod on sale in Europe  #39;Saturday #39;

Apple today confirmed that the new special edition U2 iPod will go on sale in the UK on November 20. Launching Apple #39;s new London store, senior vice president of retail Ron Johnson, said:  quot;The


lab fires analyst over falsified tests

Orchid Cellmark, a Montgomery County-based laboratory that has analyzed DNA for such high-profile cases as the OJ Simpson trial and the JonBenet Ramsey murder, has fired an analyst for allegedly


Spotted Owl to Stay on Threatened List

The northern spotted owl, the bird at the center of the Pacific Northwest logging wars, will stay on the threatened species list, the government said Thursday.


Big Jake makes his mark

he #39;s the tallest, most solidly-built player in international cricket at the moment. The next thing that gets your attention


Legacy key element of bid paper

A massive injection of cash for grassroots sport and a new national stadium for athletics are included in a multi-million pound legacy promised by London #39;s bid for the 2012 Olympic Games.


NBA Game Summary - Cleveland At Charlotte

Charlotte, NC -- LeBron James poured in a game-high 19 points and Jeff McInnis scored 18 as the Cleveland Cavaliers routed the Charlotte Bobcats, 106-89, at the Charlotte Coliseum.


Cordiale Welcome for Chirac

French president Jacques Chirac enjoyed a day of lavish hospitality as he visited Britain to celebrate the centenary of the Entente Cordiale.


Russia Formally Commits to Climate Pact

Russia is expected to formally agree to the Kyoto Protocol on global warming today, following its signing into law by Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month.


Thousands to be freed from Myanmar jails

The military leaders in Myanmar have decided to release about 4,000 prisoners the leaders admit were wrongly imprisoned. The media in the repressive state, formerly called


GOP Governors Cheer Election Wins (AP)

AP - Buoyed by President Bush's re-election and a political map with coast-to-coast Republican leaders, GOP governors gathered Thursday to cheer their electoral fortunes and discuss solving familiar fiscal problems at home.


House Ethics Panel Rebukes DeLay Accuser (AP)

AP - The House ethics committee Thursday night turned the tables on Majority Leader Tom DeLay's accuser, rebuking Rep. Chris Bell for exaggerating misconduct allegations against the GOP leader.


F.D.A. Failing in Drug Safety, Official Asserts

Federal drug regulators are "virtually incapable of protecting America" from unsafe drugs, a federal drug safety reviewer told a Congressional panel.


Former Viacom Chief Named to Lead Sirius

Mel Karmazin, who quit as president of Viacom after a power struggle with his boss, has resurfaced as the new chief executive of Sirius Satellite Radio.


IRS Audits More of the Wealthy and Fewer Small Companies

The Internal Revenue Service, in the midst of a crackdown on aggressive tax shelters, is auditing significantly more wealthy individuals and large companies, but is increasingly shying away from scrutinizing smaller businesses.


ExpressJet Pilots Ratify Labor Agreement

HOUSTON, Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ExpressJet Airlines, Inc. today announced that its pilots represented by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) ratified a new labor agreement.


U2 sees iPod TV spots as synergy, not sellout

Uno, dos, tres, CATORCE! The TV quakes as a euphoric punk holler, stabbing guitar and muscle-bound rhythms roar over convulsive images of rock stars in silhouette.


Federer beats Moya in Masters

Top-seeded Roger Federer overcame a second-set lapse and remained unbeaten in the ATP Masters Cup Championships with a victory Thursday night over Carlos Moya.


US downs Spain to face Australia in quarterfinals of women #39;s U-19 <b>...</b>

The United States beat European champion Spain 1-0 on Thursday to set up to a quarterfinal showdown against Australia at the Women #39;s Under-19 World Championship.


Favre's Mother Falls Ill on Book Tour (AP)

AP - Brett Favre's mother was hospitalized Thursday with stomach pains, interrupting her book tour.


Venus Williams Beats Serena in Exhibition (AP)

AP - Venus Williams defeated injured sister Serena 6-4, 7-5 in an exhibition match Thursday night.


Colonial Tensions Reemerge in Ivory Coast

Young Ivorians embrace anti-French sentiment and struggle to break ties with the colonial master.


Pavano Meets With Red Sox, and Schilling Makes a Pitch

The free agent right-hander Carl Pavano, who will meet with the Yankees soon, spent two hours at Curt Schilling's home in Medfield, Mass., on Thursday.


Holtz Is Retiring, and Spurrier Will Take Over Job

South Carolina Coach Lou Holtz will retire at the end of the football season, opening the way for Steve Spurrier, the former Florida coach, to take the job.


Lehigh and Lafayette Are Still Playing After All Those Years

Lehigh and Lafayette on Saturday will meet for the 140th time, but for the first time with an automatic postseason bid on the line.


APEC Nations Work on Stronger Security Resolutions

 By Fiona Ortiz

 SANTIAGO, Chile (Reuters) - Pacific Rim trading nationsagreed they should work harder to control the production andtrade of shoulder-launched missiles to keep them out of thewrong hands, foreign and trade ministers meeting in Chile saidin a resolution on Thursday.


Japan, China Leaders Agree to Meeting

The leaders of Japan and China agreed to a one-on-one meeting on the sidelines of a summit, overcoming a diplomatic impasse between the Asian powers that have been increasingly at odds. The breakthrough came as ministers for 21 Pacific Rim economics pledged Thursday work hard for the passage of a global trade treaty.


Henman Crushes Coria to Keep Masters Hopes Alive

 By Steve Keating

 HOUSTON (Reuters) - Britain's Tim Henman pounded ArgentineGuillermo Coria 6-2, 6-2 Thursday to keep alive his hopes ofreaching the Masters Cup semi-finals.


Brown Steps Forwrad

Kwame Brown completes his first full practice since having foot surgery and gets rave reviews from coach Eddie Jordan. Brown is still expected out until December.


FDA Prompts Pfizer To Yank Viagra Ads

The FDA thinks those  quot;wild thing quot; ads for Viagra need to be domesticated. The ads feature a balding middle-age man with a beautiful blond woman and a voice-over asking,  quot;Remember that guy who used to be called  #39;Wild Thing #39;?


Parreira plays down Brazil #39;s defeat

Brazilian head coach Carlos Alberto Parreira played down sentiment about the world champion #39;s 1-0 defeat by minnow Ecuador in the South American zone World Cup qualifier.


Wall Street Set to Open Firmer (Reuters)

Reuters - Wall Street was set to start higher on\Tuesday to recoup some of the prior session's losses, though\high-profile retailer Amazon.com  may come under\pressure after a broker downgrade.


#39;Next Sunday #39; keeps Parcells motivated

By lunchtime Thursday, Bill Parcells already had five voice mails from friends, all with pretty much the same message.  quot;They #39;re saying, Hang in there.


Sharon Sets Peace  #39;Test #39; for Palestinians

Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, setting a test for a new Palestinian leadership, said it could show its desire for peace by ending incitement against Israel even before any crackdown on militants.


Cavs Dunk Bobcats

LeBron James slams down a windmill dunk late in the second quarter and Cleveland never looks back in a 106-89 victory over Charlotte on Thursday night.


Founder of Nike to Hand Off Job to a New Chief

Philip H. Knight, the brash founder of Nike who became as synonymous with the sneaker brand as its swoosh logo, resigned yesterday as chief executive after more than 32 years at the helm.


Former Viacom Chief Named to Lead Sirius

Mel Karmazin, who abruptly quit as president and chief operating officer of Viacom earlier this year after a lengthy power struggle with his boss, resurfaced yesterday as the new chief executive of Sirius Satellite Radio.


Age of green cars arrives as Canadians cut emissions

Cars that are environmentally friendly may be coming to drivers in North America faster than anyone expected after the Canadian government pledged this week to a dramatic 25 per


Roddick earns Masters semifinal berth

HOUSTON (Ticker) - Andy Roddick #39;s superior play in tiebreakers earned him a semifinal berth at the year-end \$3.7 million Tennis Masters Cup.


Athletics: Greek pair charged over drug tests

The Greek sprinters Kostadinos Kederis and Ekaterina Thanou face possible jail sentences after being charged with avoiding a drug test on the eve of this summer #39;s Olympics and faking a motorcycle accident several hours later.


Slain aid worker mourned

The suspected murder of British aid worker Margaret Hassan in Iraq was widely condemned here as a wave of unrest across Sunni Muslim hotspots killed more than 20 people, many of them women and children.


Clarke criticises princes views on education

CHARLES Clarke, the education secretary, broke with government protocol yesterday to condemn the Prince of Wales for claiming that modern education wrongly encouraged people to think they could rise above their station.


U.S. May Have Found Fallujah Militant Base (AP)

AP - U.S. troops sweeping through Fallujah on Thursday found what appeared to be a command center used by followers of Jordanian terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, and a U.S. general expressed confidence the battle for the city has "broken the back of the insurgency."


No. 10 Arizona Outguns Wright St. 83-66 (AP)

AP - Salim Stoudamire scored 24 points, including 6-of-9 3-pointers, and 10th-ranked Arizona beat Wright State 83-66 Thursday night in the second round of the Preseason NIT.


Global Fund to Fight Deadly Diseases (AP)

AP - A fund set up to help combat three of the world's most widespread diseases will support another round of projects, organizers said Thursday, after the United States dropped its objections to financing provisions.


Fossil May Show Ape-Man Ancestor

Scientists have discovered the remains of a tree-climbing creature that lived 13 million years ago in what is now northeastern Spain and may be the last common ancestor of modern great apes


APEC leaders pledge to boost free trade

SANTIAGO, Chile - Economic leaders present at the 16th Ministerial Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) on Thursday (Friday in Manila) agreed to strengthen efforts in trade liberalization and free trade.


Hokies Blast Terps

Virginia Tech scores 24 points off four first-half turnovers in a 55-6 wipeout of Maryland on Thursday to remain alone atop the ACC.


Spurs Hold Off Sixers

Tim Duncan scores a season-high 34 points and grabs 13 rebounds to lead the Spurs to their fifth straight victory, 88-80, over the 76ers.


Merck #39;s Vioxx Withdrawal Illustrates Power of Regulation by Trial <b>...</b>

Merck  amp; Co. withdrew the popular drug Vioxx from the market in September, after data from a clinical trial supported claims the medication was associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.


Eisner Continues Defense of Hiring, Firing

When Walt Disney Co. chief executive Michael D. Eisner and Disney President Michael S. Ovitz appeared on  quot;Larry King Live quot; on Sept.


Stocks lack direction

NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - Stocks seesawed in afternoon trade Thursday, with blue chips struggling to maintain their gains while techs edged lower following warnings from Google.


Father of Nike, Marketing Guru Gives Up Post

Philip H. Knight resigned yesterday as head of the Oregon sneaker company that he built into Nike Inc., a global sportswear powerhouse that made everyone want to soar in Air Jordans, Wear


American Fare Cuts Presage Price War

American Airlines slashed its fares to Miami yesterday by as much as 85 percent from several cities including Washington #39;s Reagan National Airport, possibly setting off a winter fare war on routes to Florida.


Oracle #39;s PeopleSoft Bid Deadline Nears

Oracle Corp. #39;s \$24-a-share hostile takeover bid for PeopleSoft Inc. heated up anew yesterday as tonight #39;s deadline for stockholders to offer their shares for sale approached.


IRS Chief Pleads for Bigger Budget

Internal Revenue Commissioner Mark W. Everson called on Congress yesterday to boost the agency #39;s funding by the full \$500 million requested by President Bush, calling it a way to help shave the record federal budget deficit.


South Korea Says It May Not Meet 5 GDP Growth Target (Update3)

South Korea #39;s economy may miss its 5 percent growth target for 2004 after expanding at its slowest pace in a year in the third quarter, the finance minister said.


PRA Raises \$68.4 Million In Its IPO

PRA International Inc., a McLean company that manages clinical trials for drug companies worldwide, said it raised \$68.4 million yesterday in its initial public offering.


Oracle moves to quarterly patch release schedule

NOVEMBER 18, 2004 (COMPUTERWORLD) - Oracle Corp. today announced that it is moving to a quarterly patch release schedule in response to user demands for a more predictable process for applying needed security fixes to the company #39;s software.


Syracuse Tops Mississippi St. 71-58 (AP)

AP - Syracuse and Mississippi State both struggled in the first half. Hakim Warrick made sure Syracuse had a much better final 20 minutes. Warrick scored 17 of his 21 points in the second half and the fifth-ranked Orange beat No. 12 Mississippi State 71-58 Thursday night in the semifinals of the Coaches vs. Cancer Classic.


No. 15 Va. Tech Demolishes Maryland 55-6

Bryan Randall Throws Two TD Passes, Runs for Third As No. 15 Virginia Tech Crushes Maryland 55-6. Virginia Tech quarterback Bryan Randall (3) twarts the tackle of Maryland #39;s Dominique Foxworth (6) during first


No. 2 Wake Forest 81, Virginia Commonwealth 67

For the second straight game, Wake Forest had to fight off its own inconsistency and an opponent that refused to quit. Chris Paul scored 16 points despite taking just three shots from the field Thursday night to help the No.


Motorola to Build Cell Phones Into Ski Jackets

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Motorola Inc. MOT.N said it will  unveil plans this week for a line of outerwear that uses  interactive cell phone and portable music technology in  snowboarding jackets, in a bid to win over twentysomethings.


UN: Sudan parties pledge peace

Parties in conflict-torn Sudan made pledges for peace before the UN Security Council, which held extraordinary sessions in Nairobi, Kenya.


My views coming back into fashion - Prince

THE Prince of Wales has defended his  quot;old-fashioned views quot; after Education Secretary Charles Clarke angrily accused the heir to the throne of being out of touch.


Pakistan plays down Indian comments on Kashmir solution

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan - Pakistan says it would not accept the existing military line dividing Kashmir as an international border, and is playing down concern that India is irreconcilibly opposed to adjusting that frontier.


Unbeaten Federer Marches Into Masters Semi-Finals

HOUSTON (Reuters) - World number one Roger Federer downed  Carlos Moya, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, Thursday to complete a dazzling  unbeaten run through the round-robin stages into the  semi-finals of the Masters Cup.


Cap Gemini Said to Weigh Selling Unit in America

Cap Gemini, the Paris-based technology consulting and outsourcing giant, is considering a sale of its struggling business in North America.


Year-end target for Darfur troops

The African Union mission chief to Sudan says he hopes  all troops will be deployed by the end of the year.


Ape adds new limb to tree of human evolution

The latest probable common ancestor to humans and great apes had a body like an ape, fingers like a chimp and the upright posture of humans, according to researchers who unearthed a fossil of the animal in Spain.


Oracle moves to quarterly security patch cycle

Software maker Oracle will soon start issuing security patches quarterly. This new patch schedule comes only months after the company said it would issue such security updates every month.


Sun-isms Debunked

Newman writes  quot;We #39;re all aware of the hole-ridden arguments that Sun executives Scott McNealy and Jonathan Schwartz use to attack Linux.


Greek Sprinters Indicted on 8 Counts

Greek sprinters Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou face misdemeanor charges for allegedly skipping drug tests on the eve of the 2004 Summer Games in Athens, faking a motorcycle accident to cover up their absences and lying to investigators, the public


Report: Holtz to quit; Spurrier to take over

Stephen Orr Spurrier may become the new ball coach at South Carolina, a Southeastern Conference rival that immediately would leapfrog the Seminoles and Bulldogs as the opponent to bookmark on future schedules.


Matured Busch a title favorite, not fan favorite

NASCAR #39;s new playoff-style championship format has delivered nearly everything its proponents promised: more intense racing, higher television ratings and a tight title race heading into Sunday #39;s season finale.


In the Second Half, an Orange Burst and Victory

After a miserable offensive first half during which two of Syracuse #39;s best players seemed to be missing in action, an explosion seemed inevitable.


REVIEW: Nintendo DS a Sleek Powerhouse (AP)

AP - The last time Nintendo Co. tried two screens, the result was a head-splitting virtual reality goggle called Virtual Boy that quickly flopped in the mid-1990s.


French leader touts cooperation French Leader Emphasizes <b>...</b>

French President Jacques Chirac toned down his criticism of Britain #39;s role in the Iraq war as he arrived yesterday on a two-day visit celebrating the Entente


Leaders overlook Palestinian sentiment

American policymakers and statesmen believe the Middle East is better off without Yasser Arafat. Madeline Albright said Arafat  quot;was viewed as an obstacle to peace, both by the Israelis and


REVIEW: Windows Cell Phone Sleek, Stacked (AP)

AP - With all the grumbling over Windows and its many shortcomings, why would anyone want Microsoft's computer operating system to run their cell phone?


SBC, Yahoo! Extend Pact to Offer Service (AP)

AP - SBC Communications Inc. and Yahoo! Inc. are expanding their partnership in high-speed Internet access to make news, entertainment and other services available not just on computers but also on cell phones, televisions and other devices.


Taipei to Cloak City in World's Largest Wi-Fi Grid (Reuters)

Reuters - Dennis Tseng is an avid Web surfer who\loves to hang out in Taipei's upmarket Hsinyi district, where\wireless Internet access is freely available to all.


Radio Veteran To Head Sirius (washingtonpost.com)

washingtonpost.com - Mel Karmazin, the hard-charging broadcasting executive who left Viacom Inc. after clashing with chairman and chief executive Sumner M. Redstone, is taking command at Sirius Satellite Radio Inc., which will reunite him with longtime ally Howard Stern.


After False Starts, 3G Mobile Service Set for Take-Off (Reuters)

Reuters - With most technical issues resolved\and giants like Vodafone Plc signing up customers, 2005 could\be the year when third-generation (3G) mobile services finally\gain a global audience.


Novell Posts Profit (Reuters)

Reuters - Novell Inc.  on Thursday posted\a quarterly net profit, compared with a year-earlier loss, on\stronger sales of Linux operating software and a boost to\earnings from a weaker dollar.


Sybari offers security for IM, SharePoint (InfoWorld)

InfoWorld - Sybari Software today added Antigen 8.0 for Microsoft SharePoint and Antigen 8.0 for Instant Messaging, two antivirus, antispam, and content-filtering security software products for enterprise environments.


Oracle's PeopleSoft Bid Deadline Nears (washingtonpost.com)

washingtonpost.com - Oracle Corp.'s  #36;24-a-share hostile takeover bid for PeopleSoft Inc. heated up anew yesterday as tonight's deadline for stockholders to offer their shares for sale approached.


Disney Toys with Jobs' Baby (The Motley Fool)

The Motley Fool - The head of Steve Jobs probably did a 360 -- a la Regan in The Exorcist -- when he heard the news, reported in a recent issue of Hollywood Reporter, that Disney (NYSE: DIS - News) will make Toy Story 3.


China, 15 Other Countries Consider NASA Exploration (Reuters)

Reuters - China and 15 other countries joined


San Francisco Mulls Ban of Beloved Zoo Elephants (Reuters)

Reuters - San Francisco officials pondered\on Thursday whether to stop keeping elephants in the city's zoo\as activists pushed for a ban amid concerns about their\conditions in captivity.


As Ice Thaws, Arctic Peoples at Loss for Words (Reuters)

Reuters - What are the words used by indigenous\peoples in the Arctic for "hornet," "robin," "elk," "barn owl"\or "salmon?"


UN Short-Circuits U.S.-Led Drive to Ban Cloning (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. efforts to secure a global\treaty banning the cloning of human embryos, including for stem\cell research, were dealt a major setback on Thursday when U.N.\diplomats agreed to work for a political declaration on the\issue instead.


Electronic Eye Devised to Help Blind Cross Roads (Reuters)

Reuters - An "electronic eye" that can be fitted\to a pair of glasses could help the blind cross roads more\safely, scientists said on Friday.


Ground 'Moves' as Cane Toads Invade Australia Park (Reuters)

Reuters - Hundreds of thousands of poisonous baby\cane toads invaded an Australian national park on Friday,\hopping around in such numbers that the ground seemed to move,\an ecologist said.


Ancient Animal Could Be Human-Ape Ancestor (AP)

AP - A nearly 13 million-year-old ape discovered in Spain is the last probable common ancestor to all living humans and great apes, a research team says in Friday's issue of Science magazine.


U.N. Abandons Idea of Anti-Cloning Treaty (AP)

AP - In a victory for advocates of stem cell research, U.N. diplomats on Thursday gave up trying to craft a treaty to outlaw human cloning, and will probably settle for a less powerful document that won't seek a worldwide ban, officials said.


Scientists in 17 Nations to Study Fish (AP)

AP - Scientists in 17 countries will scout waterways to locate and study the world's largest freshwater fish species, many of which are declining in numbers, hoping to learn how to better protect them, researchers announced Thursday.


Study: Learning to Run Propelled Evolution (AP)

AP - New research suggests that developing the ability to run  #151; long thought to be a byproduct of walking for early man  #151; was actually an instrumental step in the evolution of people from ape-like creatures into what we know today as humans.


N.Korea Says Kim Portrait Reports a 'U.S. Plot' (Reuters)

Reuters - Reports that portraits of North Korean\leader Kim Jong-il had been removed were a U.S. plot to\overthrow the government and a "groundless fabrication," Xinhua\news agency quoted a North Korean official on Friday as saying.


Prosecutor Feared Dead in Venezuela Blast (AP)

AP - A bomb exploded early Friday in a pickup truck owned by a prosecutor who is pressing charges against supporters of the failed 2002 coup against President Hugo Chavez, and a charred body inside appears to be that of the prosecutor, the government said.


N.Korea Says Kim Portrait Reports a 'U.S. Plot'

BEIJING (Reuters) - Reports that portraits of North Korean  leader Kim Jong-il had been removed were a U.S. plot to  overthrow the government and a "groundless fabrication," Xinhua  news agency quoted a North Korean official on Friday as saying.


Suicide Bombers Kill 14 in Iraq

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A double suicide car bomb attack  devastated a police station just outside Baghdad's fortified  Green Zone on Saturday, killing seven people and wounding 57 in  the latest strike against Iraq's beleaguered security forces.


Johnson boss to fill big shoes at Nike

William Perez, president and chief executive officer of Racine-based SC Johnson  amp; Son Inc., is taking the reins of Nike Inc., the world #39;s dominant marketer of athletic shoes.


Boeing ex-officer pleads guilty in Air Force hiring case:

World News: Washington, Nov 17 : A Former Boeing Chief Financial Officer (CFO) has pleaded guilty to illegally negotiating an executive job for an Air Force #39;s acquistion official while she still had authority over billions of dollars in Boeing contract


Knicks Nudge Rockets 93-92 at Buzzer (AP)

AP - Jamal Crawford banked in a 3-pointer at the buzzer to send the New York Knicks to their first road win of the season, 93-92 over the reeling Houston Rockets on Thursday night.


NBA Wrap: Duncan Notches Season-High as Spurs Win (Reuters)

Reuters - Tim Duncan poured in a season-high 34\points and grabbed 13 rebounds as the San Antonio Spurs won\their fifth straight game, 88-80 over the 76ers in Philadelphia\Thursday.


Legal challenge to ban on hunting

The Countryside Alliance prepares a legal challenge to the Parliament Act - used to force the hunt ban into law.


Veteran Mel Karmazin To Head Sirius Radio

The hard-charging broadcasting executive, formerly of Viacom Inc., is taking the command post at Sirius and reuniting with longtime ally Howard Stern. -The Washington Post


Tensions Rise as Friday Bid Deadline Nears

Amid a new war of words, Calpers tendered 1.5 million shares Thursday in support of Oracle Corp.'s \$24-a-share hostile takeover bid for PeopleSoft Inc. -The Washington Post


PRA Raises \$68.4 Million In Its IPO

PRA International Inc., a McLean company that manages clinical trials for drug companies, plans to use some of the funds to hire staff as it expands its worldwide operations. -The Washington Post


Rancor deepens over PeopleSoft deal

A majority of PeopleSoft (PSFT) shareholders are expected to support Oracle #39;s (ORCL) takeover bid when they tender shares Friday night.


Pentagon Updates Rules On Post-Government Work

The Pentagon has added new procedures to ensure that senior officials seeking employment in industry abide by the rules governing post-government work.


For Fallujah Family, a Daring Escape

After hiding for days, 10 relatives flee U.S. assault across Euphrates River.


Virgin Mary Grilled Cheese frenzy may spur owner meltdown

I have come like a pilgrim to this modest Fort Lauderdale neighborhood, nestled conveniently between the flight path of a major airport and an Indian gaming casino, to witness a miracle - in marketing, if nothing else.


Sun plans patent protection for open-source Solaris

SAN JOSE, Calif.--When Sun Microsystems releases Solaris as open-source software, it plans to provide legal protection from patent-infringement suits to outsiders using or developing the operating system--one of several ways Sun hopes to make Solaris more


Top-seeded Roger Federer beats Carlos Moya to remain undefeated

Top-seeded Roger Federer of Switzerland overcame a second-set lapse and defeated Carlos Moya of Spain 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 Thursday night to remain undefeated in the ATP Masters Cup Championships.


Knicks Nudge Rockets 93-92 at Buzzer

New York Knicks #39; Jamal Crawford (11) goes up to shoot the game-winning three-point shot as Houston Rockets #39; Jim Jackson (21) defends during the fourth quarter Thursday, Nov. 18, 2004 in Houston.


Webb won #39;t let game become all-consuming

WEST PALM BEACH - She didn #39;t mean it in the literal sense, but the words nonetheless were startling even under camouflage of a dismissive laugh.


FedEx, New York Life Press Bush on Trade as China #39;s Power Grows

US companies such as FedEx Corp. and New York Life Insurance Co. are pleading with President George W. Bush to start discussions on a Pacific Rim free-trade bloc as he heads to this weekend #39;s regional economic summit.


Fed Likely To Say No To Riggs  Payments

The Federal Reserve probably will not approve a \$10 million payment due later this year on Riggs's trust-preferred securities as the agency is cautious about preserving Riggs's cash, sources say.


Upside of a Down Dollar

U.S. manufacturers benefit greatly from a cheaper dollar, one major reason why the Bush administration has taken a relaxed attitude toward the slide in the U.S. currency.


WTO Blesses American 'Champagne'

GENEVA, Nov. 18 -- The United States and Australia prevailed in an interim ruling by the World Trade Organization in a dispute over protection given by the European Union to its regional goods such as Champagne wine and Feta cheese, trade officials said Thursday.


Report: Florida data suggests e-voting problems

An analysis by four university researchers contends a link between electronic voting machines and a pro-Bush skew in Florida.


Oracle moves to quarterly patch release schedule

Oracle today announced that it is moving to a quarterly patch release schedule, even as the company faces criticism from analyst firm Gartner Inc. for its handling of a recent critical security fix.


Search Engine Forums Spotlight

Links to this week's topics from search engine forums across the web: Google Launches Search for Scholars - Adwords to Ban Affiliates? - MSN's 'Near Me' Search Button - The Difference In Traffic for #1 and #10? - Robots.txt   Security Issues - One year anniversary of the 'Florida' Update - What is the Future of the 'Niche Directory'


System gremlins resolved at HSBC

Computer glitches which led to chaos for HSBC customers on Monday are fixed, the High Street bank confirms.


Directors also delay decision on first-quarter dividend

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Marsh  amp; McLennan said late Thursday that five directors, who are also executives at the insurance broker, have stepped down from the board.


Blog reading explodes in America

About 32 million people in the US read a blog in 2004 but less than half of Americans know what a blog is, says a survey.


MSN Extends Overture Paid-Search Deal

Microsoft Corp. #39;s MSN division has extended its sponsored-links contract with Overture Services Inc. for another year. ADVERTISEMENT.


IBM Says It Swamps Rivals in Key UNIX Computer Test

IBM (IBM.N: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Thursday its workhorse commercial computers have smashed the industry #39;s most demanding tests, which analysts said creates


Radio Takes The Big Leap Forward

(CBS) Finally I have a TiVo for my radio. Well, not quite but it #39;s close enough. Just as TiVo does for TV, RadioShark from Griffin Technology (griffintechnology.


Greek duo face criminal charges

Greek sprint stars Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou are charged for skipping drug test prior to the Athens Games. They are also charged for faking a motorcycle accident, China Radio International reported Friday.


Spurs past Sixers 88-80

The San Antonio Spurs snatched their fifth straight victory in an away game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Tim Duncan led the Spurs with a season-high 34 points and 13 rebounds, China Radio International reported Friday.


No. 24 Memphis 81, Saint Mary #39;s 66

quot;Coach called me over the summer and asked me if I was working hard, quot; Carney said.  quot;I guess I showed him what I did all through the summer tonight.


Favre #39;s mother falls ill while on book promotion tour

Bonita Favre was taken to the emergency room after waking up with  quot;a horrible stomach bug, quot; said Zo Je Feigenbaum, the publicist for the book entitled  quot;FAVRE.


Ivory Coast Rebel Chief Brands Gbagbo War Criminal

Ivory Coast #39;s rebel chief said on Thursday he wanted President Laurent Gbagbo charged with war crimes as the West African country #39;s leader called on thousands of foreigners who fled mob violence to return.


NBA Wrap: Duncan Notches Season-High as Spurs Win

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Tim Duncan poured in a season-high 34  points and grabbed 13 rebounds as the San Antonio Spurs won  their fifth straight game, 88-80 over the 76ers in Philadelphia  Thursday.


Virginia Tech Blasts Maryland, 55-6

BLACKSBURG, Va. (Sports Network) - Mike Imoh ran for two  first-quarter touchdowns and 15th-ranked Virginia Tech routed  Maryland 55-6 at Lane Stadium.


At least five drugs deserve a safety review, official tells Senate <b>...</b>

Consumers looking for alternatives to Vioxx have other painkillers to choose from, ranging from similar prescription drugs such as Celebrex to that old medicine-chest standby, aspirin.


Microsoft Extends Overture Deal to 2006

Microsoft and Yahoo agreed to a one-year extension of MSN #39;s deal to show Overture Services #39; paid listings on its Web sites.


Blowout crushes Terps #39; bowl bid

Maryland #39;s long-shot hopes for a bowl bid and winning season ended with the worst loss in coach Ralph Friedgen #39;s four seasons.


Sorenstam takes early lead

Swedish star Annika Sorenstam shot a six-under-par 66 in Thursday #39;s first round at the season-ending \$1-million ADT Championship.


KYOTO PROTOCOL GETS GREEN LIGHT

The Kyoto Protocol has finally been given the green light and will become a binding treaty on February the 16th. The finalisation of the United Nations #39; environmental accord, which is designed to combat global


Prosecution demands death for SA  #39;mercenary #39;

MALABO - The prosecution demanded death sentences and jail terms exceeding a century in a trial of alleged putschists accused of plotting against Equatorial Guinean President Teodoro Obiang Nguema.


Lessons From The Vioxx Fiasco

What a mess. Weeks after Merck  amp; Co. (MRK ) yanked its blockbuster painkiller Vioxx off the market, the furor is still raging.


Disney quarterly profit up 24, beating expectations

LOS ANGELES - Walt Disney (DIS) quarterly profit rose 24 as cable TV results and a tax benefit more than offset a drought at its movie studio.


Index points to steadily slowing economy

The economy could be headed for slower growth in the next several months, according to a report released Thursday by a private research group.


Deal with ULR targets MetLife, Prudential, Unum, Cigna

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- California Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi sued four leading group benefits insurers and broker Universal Life Resources, for allegedly taking part in secret kickback schemes that raised the cost of coverage for millions of


Gates loaded ... with e-mail spam

If you don #39;t think anybody else could possibly get any more spam than you, think of Bill Gates. The Microsoft Corp. chairman receives about 4 million pieces of e-mail per day, most of it junk, says Steve Ballmer, the company #39;s chief executive.


Will Solaris 10 Make Sun Shine Again?

When Sun Microsystems Inc. (SUNW ) Chairman and CEO Scott G. McNealy took the stage at a shindig in San Jose #39;s Tech Museum of Innovation on Nov. 15, he unveiled the most important product to come out of his company in nearly a decade.


Nintendo bets on new hand-held machine

Video game pioneer Nintendo Co. is no stranger to success, boasting a string of classics ranging from  quot;Donkey Kong quot; and  quot;Super Mario Bros.


Spurrier to take over Gamecocks

COLUMBIA, SC -- Lou Holtz told his South Carolina staff and players Thursday that he is retiring after this season, clearing the way for Steve Spurrier to take over as the Gamecocks #39; head coach and complete the handoff between two of college football #39;s


Memphis gets a battle from Gaels

New York -- Midway through the second half Thursday night against St. Mary #39;s, John Calipari, the coach of 24th-ranked Memphis, turned to an assistant and said,  quot;These guys won #39;t go away.


Revved-Up Reality TV Is Aiming To Boost Ratings And Racing

BRANDON - When NASCAR announced it would experiment with a new points formula to decide the championship this year, it sounded promising, maybe even bold.


Iran #39;s Nukes: The Crisis Is Far From Over

For weeks the rhetoric mounted as diplomats shuttled between Tehran and Vienna, seeking a solution to the impasse over Iran #39;s nuclear program.


MEPs have voted to approve the new European Commission team. The result was 449 votes in favour to 149 votes against with 82 abstentions.


French to release Arafat #39;s records

French authorities said they will release medical information on the cause of Yasser Arafat #39;s death to his diplomat nephew today in an effort to quash speculation about a conspiracy to kill the Palestinian leader.


Pakistan credited in Kashmir overture

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh #39;s recent moves to restore peace in Kashmir were encouraged by successful elections in the state in 2002 and positive steps by archrival Pakistan, Indian Ambassador to Washington Ronen Sen said yesterday.


E Guinea: death sentences demanded

The prosecution in Malabo demanded death sentences and jail terms exceeding a century on Thursday for alleged putschists accused of plotting against President Teodoro Obiang Nguema of Equatorial Guinea.


Samsung Q30 ultra-portable notebook

Review Very thin, very light - but totally desirable?


Alarm was sounded seven years ago on dig #39;s leak problems

A group of state, federal, and Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff engineers issued a confidential report in 1997 which concluded that miles of Big Dig tunnel walls were waterproofed with products


Hewitt Rusty but Wins Adelaide Opener (AP)

AP - Top-seeded Lleyton Hewitt opened his 2005 singles season with a 2-6, 6-1, 6-1 win over French qualifier Arnaud Clement in a first-round match Tuesday at the Australian men's hardcourt tennis championships.


KIWIS QUICKLY DISMISSED

Australia reached 84 for one at tea, after bowling the New Zealanders out for 353 just three balls into the second session, on the second day of the First Test in Brisbane.


U.S. Trade Exec Urges Mercosur Flexibility

In extremely blunt terms, the top U.S. trade official said Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay must be more flexible in negotiations aimed at creating a 34-nation free trade agreement spanning the Americas.


Heating fuel supply seen ample; oil futures fall under \$46

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Natural gas futures closed under \$7 for the first time in over seven weeks, with the first decline in US inventories since late March not influential enough to spark concerns over winter heating-fuel supplies.


2d section of Artery tunnel found to have serious flaw

Specialists hired by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority have discovered a second section of the Big Dig #39;s Interstate 93 tunnel with a defect similar to


Continental seeking \$500 million in cuts

Continental Airlines said Thursday it is seeking \$500 million more in cuts in wages and benefit reductions. The company said the move is necessary - on top of more than \$1.1 billion in


Beijing takes part in a workshop with 30 other countries

Long shunned as a player in US-led international space ventures, China has been admitted to talks with NASA about helping to accomplish President Bush #39;s goals for exploring the moon and Mars.


Woods leads by 3 on a soggy course

MIYAZAKI, Japan -- Tiger Woods overcame soggy conditions to shoot a 5-under-par 65 for a three-stroke lead Thursday at the Dunlop Phoenix.


Kiwis ruffle Aussie feathers?

They may be relatively small and endearing to the rest of the world, but the Kiwis have an amazing ability to irritate Australians.


Crawford #39;s Bank Shot at Buzzer Saves Knicks

A team in desperate need of a victory and a new star found them at the last second Thursday night. Jamal Crawford, the Knicks #39; main acquisition last summer, banked in a 26


A cold blast from the past

Packer fans are known for being fanatics, and River Oaks resident Doug Erwin is adding to their lore by recreating the 1967 Ice Bowl.


Before UN, Sudanese pledge peace

A Dec. 31 deadline is set for an accord to end the region #39;s 21-year civil war. By EVELYN LEOPOLD. NAIROBI, KENYA - Staking its prestige on Sudan #39;s troubled peace process, the UN Security Council met away from


Myanmar orders mass release of nearly 4,000 prisoners

YANGON : Myanmar #39;s mass release of nearly 4,000 prisoners has sparked faint hopes for political detainees including pro-democracy figures, but one observer it was aimed at easing international criticism over last month #39;s power struggle.


Brown: Ask and you will receive

He has always done whatever they've wanted. Troy Brown has run back kickoffs, returned punts, caught passes. He has been the primary receiver, a decoy, a spot rusher. He has been asked to be a team leader, then asked to take a step back and be a team player.


NFL's strong-arm tactics smack of censorship

Over the years, there have been many jokes about NFL standing for No Fun League, demanding uniformity and squelching individuality.


Smith probable for Eagles' season opener

Injured junior forward Craig Smith appears probable, while the status of suspended senior guard Jermaine Watson remains uncertain for Boston College's basketball season opener against the University of Maine tonight at 7:30 at Conte Forum, according to a school official.


Key games in New England

UNH (8-2) vs. MAINE (5-5) When, where: Tomorrow, 1 p.m., at Orono, Maine. TV, radio: None. Last season: UNH won, 47-27. Comments: UNH will be looking for a repeat of last week's 62-24 victory over Towson, which enabled the Wildcats to take over first place in the Atlantic 10 North and earned earn them a No. 5 ranking in Division ...


BC's Lee was a little late getting started

College football is big business, but there is still room for players such as Boston College fullback Everett Lee.


Babson seeks repeat

Last year, Babson captured the New England Women and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) tournament championship in dramatic fashion.


This BCS business is getting out of hand

Enough of the Bowl Championship Series. Enough of coaches sounding like Oliver Stone scripting his latest movie project.


College games on TV

WISCONSIN (9-1) vs. IOWA (8-2) When, where: Tomorrow, 3:30 p.m., at Iowa City. TV: ESPN. Last season: Iowa won, 27-21. Comments: No. 9 Wisconsin is looking to bounce back after losing for the first time this season, 49-14, at Michigan State. DB Jim Leonhard has 19 career interceptions, two shy of the school record. QB John Stocco, who is averaging ...


December date for Yukos sell-off

Russia sets a date and price for the auction of embattled Russian oil giant Yukos' main unit, as it seeks payment of a massive tax bill.


US sale boosts Waterford's profit

Irish china and glassmaker Waterford Wedgwood announces a half-year profit thanks to the sale of a former US cookware division.


Kettle campaign to ring in

With Christmas slightly more than a month away, Salvation Army bell ringers will begin the organization #39;s kettle campaign today at locations across Topeka.


Chanting throng tunes in to Stern #39;s Sirius giveaway

Manhattan #39;s Union Square has been the site of anti-war demonstrations over the years, but midday Thursday it became the newest battleground in the satellite radio war.


5  #39;inside #39; directors quit Marsh board

Embattled insurance broker Marsh  amp; McLennan Cos. said yesterday that five members of its board of directors -- all of them executives of the company -- are leaving the board.


Bill Gates world #39;s most  quot;spammed quot; person

When you get frustrated with an avalanche of spams sent to your email box, spare a thought for Bill Gates. The Microsoft Corp. chairman is the world #39;s most spammed person with


Music industry sues 20 at Mass. colleges

Twenty people at Massachusetts colleges are among 761 being sued by the recording industry in its latest attack on illegal file-swappers.


Canada insistent on goal to slice vehicle emissions

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


NFL #39;s strong-arm tactics smack of censorship


Jamal Crawford hits buzzer-beater as New York beats the Rockets 93 <b>...</b>

Jamal Crawford had been practising crazy shots over and over again recently, preparing himself for the opportunity to make a game-winning basket.


Carney leads No. 24 Tigers into final

Rodney Carney scored a career-high 33 points as No. 24 Memphis ended the surprising tournament run of St. Mary #39;s with an 81-66 victory in the semifinals of the Coaches vs.


UPDATE 3-Australia trail New Zealand by 156 at stumps

Australia were 197 for four in their first innings in reply to New Zealand #39;s 353 when play ended on the second day of their first test at the Gabba on Friday.


Sorenstam still not satisfied with her swing

She has won seven times, claimed another major and went over the \$2 million mark for the fourth consecutive season. But that doesn #39;t mean she came to the ADT Championship to relax.


IRAN NUKES  #39;CLOSER #39; THAN THOUGHT

November 19, 2004 -- WASHINGTON - Some disturbing revelations that Iran is trying to adapt its advanced ballistic missiles to carry nuclear warheads could mean that the fanatical Islamic nation is far closer to becoming a nuclear power than had been


3 Egyptian soldiers killed in Israeli error

Israeli troops mistook three Egyptian police officers for Palestinian militants and shot them dead yesterday along the Gaza Strip #39;s border


Last Australian aid group in Iraq leaves after latest deaths

Get INQ7 breaking news on your Smart mobile phone in the Philippines. Send INQ7 BREAKING to 386. SYDNEY, Australia -- The last remaining Australian aid agency in Iraq announced Friday it is pulling out following


N.Korea denies Kim Jong Il is losing power

North Korea Friday denied reports that pictures of leader Kim Jong-il had been removed from public buildings in Pyongyang and that Kim was losing influence.


Study: Harvard bolsters Boston

Harvard University boosts the local economy by \$3.4 billion a year, and is directly or indirectly responsible for providing the Boston area with more than 48,000 jobs, according to a study commissioned by the university.


Gush of criticism

A fountain that's planned as a centerpiece for a key stretch of the Rose Kennedy Greenway is drawing objections from Boston residents and a design review panel -- just one month before bidding on construction work is supposed to begin.


Red hot Google shares cooling

Google Inc. may be subject to the law of gravity, after all. Its shares, which more than doubled in the two months after the company's Aug. 19 initial public offering and traded as high as \$201.60 on Nov. 3, have slipped about 17 percent over the past two weeks. They closed at \$167.54 yesterday, down 2.88 percent for the day, ...


Prospective WBIX buyer pulls out

Accused embezzler Bradford C. Bleidt checked himself into the psychiatric unit at Massachusetts General Hospital this week, said investigators involved in the case, and they expect him to come forward in the next several days to face the civil charges against him.


Hindu seer sent to police custody

A Hindu cleric facing murder charges in southern India is sent to police custody for questioning.


FDA officer warns on 5 drugs, offers harsh critique of agency

WASHINGTON -- A veteran Food and Drug Administration safety officer yesterday told a Senate hearing inquiring into the abrupt recall of the arthritis drug Vioxx that five other widely used drugs should be either withdrawn or sharply restricted because they have dangerous side effects.


No. 9 North Carolina 91, No. 8 Kentucky 78

North Carolina finally beat Kentucky again, thanks to Rashad McCants and Sean May. Jawad Williams helped a bunch, too. McCants scored 28 points, May had 14 points and 19 rebounds and Williams tipped in a miss


An 'electronic eye' for the blind

Japanese scientists have built an electronic eye they say could help blind people get around safely.


5 'inside' directors quit Marsh board

NEW YORK -- Embattled insurance broker Marsh  amp; McLennan Cos. said yesterday that five members of its board of directors -- all of them executives of the company -- are leaving the board.


Ex-Viacom president gets hired by Sirius

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.


THE REGION Twenty people at Massachusetts colleges are among 761 being sued by the recording industry in its latest attack on illegal file-swappers. Since last year, the Recording Industry Association of America has filed thousands of lawsuits against individuals for trading music recordings over the Internet without making payments to recording companies. The latest round of suits includes people connected ...


Oracle advances in PeopleSoft takeover fight

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. -- Oracle Corp. moved closer to victory in its \$8.8 billion hostile takeover bid for PeopleSoft Inc.


Calif. sues 4 major insurers

SAN DIEGO -- Four major insurance companies paid a broker tens of millions of dollars in hidden kickbacks in exchange for winning contracts with some of the largest US companies, California Insurance Commissioner John Garamendi charged yesterday.


Blair, Chirac seek common ground

LONDON -- Marking the 100th anniversary of the diplomatic agreement that ended centuries of war and conflict between France and Britain, President Jacques Chirac of France yesterday began a two-day visit with Prime Minister Tony Blair by citing the issues that bind the two countries as well as those that divide them.


Dollar Steadies, More Weakness Expected

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - The U.S. dollar paused near recent  lows Friday but dealers expected selling to resume after a  weekend meeting of G20 finance ministers, while stock investors  sought cover in companies immune to currency risks.


Palestinians seek monitors for election

JERUSALEM -- Palestinian officials appealed yesterday for international monitors to help with their presidential elections and urged Israel's unilateral plan to withdraw from the Gaza Strip be folded into a stalled international peace plan.


Troops in Fallujah find terror group's command center

BAGHDAD -- US troops sweeping through Fallujah yesterday found what appeared to be a command center used by followers of Jordanian terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, and a US general expressed confidence the battle for the city has  quot;broken the back of the insurgency. quot;


Bin Laden said to be cut off, compromised

WASHINGTON -- Pakistan's military has been so effective in pressuring Al Qaeda leaders hiding in the tribal region of western Pakistan that Osama bin Laden and his top deputies no longer are able to direct terrorist operations, a senior American commander said yesterday.


Heroin production surges in Afghanistan

BRUSSELS -- Heroin production is booming in Afghanistan, undermining democracy and putting money in the coffers of terrorists, according to a UN report yesterday that called on US and NATO-led forces to get more involved in fighting traffickers.


Prince's views on education rebuked

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.


FDA whistle-blower singles out 5 drugs

A Food and Drug Administration official warned Congress yesterday that the FDA would be unable to prevent another episode like the Vioxx case, in which the popular arthritis


Dollar hits new low against euro

The dollar sank to a record low against the euro and a 7-month low against the yen Thursday, pressured by expectations that nothing will be done at an upcoming G20 meeting to arrest its fall.


Salvation Army hopes to avoid blue Christmas

On a near balmy day, the red-and-green confetti and Christmas carols seemed out of place, but Salvation Army officials hoped their plea Thursday for \$2.1 million in financial assistance rang true.


30-year mortgage rates show slight decline for week

Rates on 30-year and 15-year mortgages dipped this week. Rates on 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages averaged 5.74 percent, mortgage giant Freddie Mac said in its weekly survey released Thursday.


California sets tougher fuel standards

Entering an area of pollution regulation that had been solely the federal government #39;s job, California regulators Thursday set fuel standards for watercraft and locomotives


ELI EASES INTO ROLE AS SAVIOR

November 19, 2004 -- ELI MANNING is The Prince summoned to make the Giants kings of the NFL again, and New York hasn #39;t hyperventilated over a quarterback like this since Joe Namath rode into town on his white horse and white shoes 40 years ago.


Karzai: Don #39;t Spray Our Poppies

A UN survey released this week showed Afghanistan this year supplied 87 percent of the world #39;s opium - the raw material for heroin - following record-high cultivation that has skyrocketed since the fall of the Taliban in 2001.


Kyoto treaty to come into effect on February 16, 2005

The United Nations started the countdown yesterday: in 89 days time the 128 states who are members of the Kyoto Protocol will be under a legal obligation.


Quiet first half hits EMI profits

Music giant EMI sees profits fall in the first half of the year after opting to delay its major releases.


Report: Yukos unit to be auctioned

The Russian government plans to sell a majority stake in the main production unit of the embattled Yukos oil company at an auction scheduled for December 19, the Interfax news agency reported Friday.


IRS increases audits, wants more enforcement

Audits and lawsuits by the Internal Revenue Service raked in a record \$43.1 billion in taxes last year -- about four times the agency #39;s budget -- as the IRS audited more wealthy individuals


Rayovac to Buy United Industries

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Battery maker Rayovac Corp. ROV.N on  Tuesday said it would buy United Industries Corp., a maker of  lawn and garden products, for about \$476 million in cash and  stock in a bid to diversify its product mix.


Recording Companies Sue 761 More Computer Users

LOS ANGELES -- The recording industry filed copyright infringement lawsuits against 761 computer users in the latest round of litigation in the record companies #39; effort to stamp out unauthorized trading of music online.


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

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


FIFA act on race hate row

FIFA today launched an inquiry into the disgraceful scenes of racist chanting which marred last night #39;s clash between England and Spain in Madrid.


Two Japanese Men Sentenced for Data Theft (AP)

AP - Two men were given suspended jail sentences Friday for stealing personal data on subscribers to Japanese broadband services provider Softbank Corp. in an effort to extort money from the company.


Westwood grabs lead in Nedbank Golf Challenge

SUN CITY, South Africa (AFP) - Lee Westwood recovered from three bogeys in the first four holes to post a one-under-par 71 and take the lead after the third round of the Nedbank Golf Challenge.


Bush to Take Security Agenda to APEC Meet (AP)

AP - President Bush, meeting with Asian-Pacific leaders, is seeking more international backing to both persuade North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions and to take concrete steps to cripple terrorist networks around the world.