Bush Urges World to Unite With Iraq

UNITED NATIONS - President Bush, defending his decision to invade Iraq, urged a vast assembly of world leaders Tuesday to stand united with the country's struggling government and said the proper response to spreading violence "is not to retreat, it is to prevail."   The country's prime minister, Ayad Allawi, offered an upbeat assessment after Bush's speech to the General Assembly of the United Nations, saying, "We are winning, we are making progress in Iraq, we are defeating terrorists," even as insurgents claimed they had killed a second American hostage in two days.    Of the brutal slayings, Bush said, "We will not allow these thugs and terrorists to decide your fate and to decide our fate."   Yet in a sign of continuing world unease with the situation, U.N...


Rover Missions Renewed as Mars Emerges from Behind Sun

Jet Propulsion Lab -- As NASA's Spirit and Opportunity resumed reliable contact with Earth, after a period when Mars passed nearly behind the sun, the space agency extended funding for an additional six months of rover operations, as long as they keep working.     Both rovers successfully completed their primary three-month missions on the surface of Mars in April and have already added about five months of bonus exploration during the first extension of their missions...


Genetic Testing Challenges Medical Ethics

By LINDSEY TANNER    CHICAGO (AP) -- Advances in genetic testing are placing strains on the principle of doctor-patient confidentiality, as doctors grapple with whether to tell a patient's relatives when the patient has an inherited disease or mutation that could afflict other members of the family.    In an article in Wednesday's Journal of the American Medical Association, doctors and legal experts argued against imposing a mandatory "duty to warn" nonpatients...


Walking May Ward Off Alzheimer's Disease

By LINDSEY TANNER    CHICAGO (AP) -- Walking regularly at age 70 and beyond can help keep the mind sharp and ward off Alzheimer's disease, according to research suggesting that what is good for the heart is also good for the brain.    Some previous studies found that physical activity might stave off mental decline...


Biotech Grass Breeding Raises Concerns

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Pollen from genetically engineered grass floated more than 12 miles from experimental plots and bred with conventional plants, raising concerns that the biotechnology industry can't control the "gene flow" of its creations...


Microsoft to step up SP2 downloads

Microsoft will accelerate SP2 distribution  to meet goal of 100 million downloads in two months.


AMD, IBM extend chip development deal

Chipmaker will pay Big Blue nearly \$300 million, but move should help in competition with Intel.


Sun readies tool support for 64-bit AMD systems

Sun Microsystems plans to release its Sun Studio 10 development tool in the fourth quarter of this year, featuring support for 64-bit applications running on AMD Opteron and Nocona processors, Sun officials said on Tuesday.


Exploit posted for Microsoft JPEG flaw

Computer code that takes advantage of a flaw in the way many Microsoft Corp. applications process JPEG images has been published on the Internet and could be a precursor to actual attacks on vulnerable PCs, experts said.


IBM, PeopleSoft form alliance

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


Online Consumers Spend More This Holiday Season

Online consumers in the United States spent \$8.8 billion, excluding travel purchases, in November, a 19 percent jump over the \$7.4 billion spent online a year earlier, a report released on Monday said.


Nintendo and Sony Make Pushes Before Holidays

Nintendo Co. and Sony Corp. (SNE) made separate product announcements Tuesday that the video game giants hope will attract more customers ahead of the highly competitive holiday shopping season.


Revamped eMusic.com Targets Indie Market

By ALEX VEIGA    LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Nearly a year since it was sold by Vivendi Universal (V) to private investors, online retailer eMusic has undergone a facelift that includes a panel of music critics to help users comb its trove of independent music.    The revamped service, scheduled to debut Wednesday, is the latest evolution for the pioneering retailer, the first to sell digital music files online in the late 1990s...


Congress Backs Crack Down on Video Voyeurs

By JIM ABRAMS    WASHINGTON (AP) -- Calling video voyeurism the new frontier of stalking, the House on Tuesday approved legislation to make it a crime to secretly photograph or videotape people, often for lascivious purposes.    Under the legislation passed by voice vote, video voyeurism on federal lands would be punishable by a fine of not more than \$100,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, or both...


Near-bankrupt Alitalia approves relaunch plan

ROME: After winning union backing for job cuts, Alitalia has given formal approval to a four-year business plan aimed at saving the near-bankrupt Italian carrier from collapse.


EMusic to Launch Revamped Service

Online music company eMusic on Tuesday said it was revamping its service to provide commentary and reviews to complement its catalog of more than 500,000 tracks from independent labels.


Great year for Mickelson ending on a sour note

Phil Mickelson has a green jacket in his closet to remind him this has been a great year. It just might not seem that way right now.


Giggs now enrolled in United 600 club

Ryan Giggs joined elite company when he made his 600th appearance for Manchester United in their Premiership victory over Liverpool.


US media snub may hit bid

The absence of a United States broadcaster at the Paralympic Games has led senior figures within the International Paralympic Committee to raise doubts over New York #39;s bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012.


Scorpion queen breaks world record

KUANTAN: Malaysias scorpion queen Nur Malena Hassan has broken the world record after staying in a glass enclosure at the Kuantan Parade here with 6,060 scorpions for 32 days.


US pushing Japan to be base for force extending reach to Middle East: report (AFP)

AFP - The United States is pushing Japan to become a base for a force that can deploy to the Middle East, a move that exceeds the bounds of their current security alliance, a report said.


Hong Kong Scientists Advance the Fight Against SARS (Reuters)

Reuters - Scientists in Hong Kong said on\Tuesday they had devised a new way to identify chemicals that\can counter new and dangerous viruses, such as SARS, and these\chemicals may be developed into drugs.


University to Build Zebra Fish Center (AP)

AP - Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are hoping that the thousands of zebra fish living in their Biomedical Science Tower South will one day help identify genes involved in human disease and development.


Circuit City Q3 same-store sales fall

CHICAGO (CBS.MW) -- Circuit City Stores shares plummeted 10 percent Monday after the nation #39;s No. 2 electronics retailer said that its third-quarter same-store sales fell 4.3 percent.


Haiti Flood Death Toll Rising, Hundreds Missing

GONAIVES, Haiti (Reuters) - Survivors of devastating  flooding in Haiti wandered mud-clogged streets in search of  food on Tuesday as officials said 662 people had been killed  and more than 1,000 were missing.


Software promises to read want-ads for you

Tired of combing the Net for the right tech job? A start-up says its program can do it--and better than online job boards.


Jets' Abraham Out With Sprained Ligament (AP)

AP - Jets defensive end John Abraham will miss Sunday's game at Pittsburgh with a sprained ligament in his right knee.


Fed raises key overnight lending rate by 25bps to 1.75

NEW YORK, September 21 (newratings.com) - The US Federal Reserve raised the interest rates by a quarter percentage point today, in-line with the broad expectations.


Nintendo aims high with low-cost console

The console will cost only USD150, which is less than half the price that Sony is expected to charge for its PSP. Nintendo also intends releasing the DS in November, to take advantage of the US Christmas market.


AOL: Serious about security - for a price

AOL is getting serious about security - if you pay them an extra \$1.95 to \$4.95 a month. Grandma #39;s favorite ISP has teamed with RSA Security to offer an optional login service that provides a second layer of authentication to prevent identity theft.


Microsoft ready to make more big acquisitions, says CFO

Microsoft may make more large acquisitions than it has done before and become a more distributed company rather than moving key employees to its headquarters, said chief financial officer John Connors.


Hamilton Positive?

By James Startt, European Correspondent; Joe Lindsey, Contributing Writer. Olympic gold medallist Tyler Hamilton has tested positive for blood doping, according to reports first issued by the Spanish news agency EFE and later confirmed by his team.


Bonds to remain with Giants through 2006

San Francisco, CA (Sports Network) - The San Francisco Giants have scheduled a news conference prior to Tuesday night #39;s game against Houston at which time the club is expected to announce that Barry Bonds will remain under contract through the 2006 season


Many hurdles ahead for Bonds to pass Aaron

Barry Bonds and the San Francisco Giants are apparently talking contract. Apparently this new contract will guarantee Bonds status as the uber Giant and one of baseballs top wage earners through the 2006 season.


Iranians defy world on nuclear issue

VIENNA: Iran defied the UN yesterday by announcing it has begun converting a large amount of raw uranium to prepare it for enrichment, a process that can be used to develop atomic bombs.


Kalashnikov targets vodka market

THE creator of the worlds most popular rifle has launched a vodka under the same name - the kalashnikov. At 82 per cent proof, the drink may prove as powerful as its famous AK-47 assault rifle.


Tesco turns up the heat as profits soar 24

Tesco has pledged to turn up the heat on rivals with the  quot;Wal-Martisation quot; of its non-food and non-clothing lines as the supermarket group yesterday delivered a set of half-year results that beat most expectations.


No Extra Security for A's Bullpen in Texas (AP)

AP - There was no extra security around the Oakland bullpen Tuesday night for the start of a three-game series in Texas, and that didn't concern the Athletics.


Israel-Iraq Handshake at U.N. Makes News (AP)

AP - There were hundreds of handshakes Tuesday as world leaders met for the opening of the U.N. General Assembly's annual debate  #151; but only one grabbed widespread attention: Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom greeted Iraqi interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi.


PeopleSoft's Chief Executive Rallies His Troops Vs. Oracle (Investor's Business Daily)

Investor's Business Daily - PeopleSoft Chief Executive Craig Conway rallied 13,000 company faithful during his keynote speech Tuesday at the company's annual users' conference in San Francisco.


Warming May Be Less Severe in Central U.S. (AP)

AP - Anticipated global warming by mid-century may be less severe in the central U.S. than elsewhere in the country, researchers said Tuesday.


Co. Converts Buses Into Rolling Labs (AP)

AP - An Ohio company has found a niche by converting yellow school buses into hands-on laboratories as a highly mobile way to try to get students excited about science.


Senate Panel OKs Bill to Expand DNA Tests (AP)

AP - The Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday passed a five-year,  #36;1 billion bill that would provide greater access to DNA testing in rape cases and for convicted felons who claim innocence.


Every little helps as Tesco continues to roll over rivals

TESCO puts in another crackerjack trading performance. Sales, volumes, profits, divi all sharply up. Er, hmm ... whats on the telly tonight?


Conseco seeks to collect exec #39;s debt

NOBLESVILLE, Ind. -- Conseco Inc. asked a state judge Tuesday for a ruling allowing the company to foreclose on its former chief executive #39;s mansion to collect a \$62.


Olympic Games 2012 great stake for France #39;s sports, says French <b>...</b>

The success of Paris #39; bid for Olympic Games 2012 would bring an exceptional development for France for at least 6 years, said Jean-Francois Lamour, French minister for Youth and Sports on Tuesday.


Site promises to read want-ads for you

Tired of combing the Net for the right tech job? A start-up says its program can do it--and better than online job boards.


Microsoft appoints new public sector head

Microsoft Corp. has appointed a new leader for its Worldwide Public Sector group, which plays a key role in its efforts to counter competition from open source software in government and education markets.


SBC readies 50,000-node IP phone system at Ford

SBC Communicationswill design, implement and manage an IP (Internet Protocol) telephony system for more than 50,000 employees at Ford Motor's world headquarters and other facilities, the carrier said Tuesday.


Sun looks for Wall Street comeback

Looking for a comeback on Wall Street, Sun Microsystems is trying to lure financial services companies back to the fold with promotional bundles of hardware and software for companies


Cyclist fails test for blood

Tyler Hamilton, the Olympic time-trial champion, faces the possible loss of his gold medal depending on the outcome of a second sample analysis after confirmation yesterday that he had failed a test intended to detect the use of blood transfusions to


Soccer legend Diego Maradona arrives in Cuba to resume drug <b>...</b>

Former soccer great Diego Maradona spent Tuesday undergoing a general medical checkup in Havana after returning to Cuba to resume treatment for cocaine addiction.


Rory McCarthy and Ghaith Abdul-Ahad in Baghdad, Helen Carter and <b>...</b>

Iraq #39;s justice minister last night pledged to release one high-profile Iraqi woman prisoner and to consider the release of a second in a last-minute concession that may save the life of the British kidnap victim Kenneth Bigley.


Another year eyed for SDF #39;s Iraq tour

The current one-year deployment of Japanese troops in Iraq will be extended by another year if the security situation there does not deteriorate further, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hiroyuki Hosoda said Tuesday.


Ryder Cup Just One More Disappointment for Woods

If Tiger Woods has endured a more challenging year as a professional golfer, he cannot recall when that was.


In Shadow of 9/11, Hamburg Tracks Atta Contacts (Reuters)

Reuters - The balding young man with the\black beard raised his hands to cover his face as three\visitors entered the room.


Web Site: 2nd U.S. Hostage Killed in Iraq (AP)

AP - An al-Qaida-linked group led by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi claimed Tuesday to have killed the second of two American hostages  #151; back-to-back slayings that have notched up the Jordanian militant's ruthless campaign of terror.


Tokyo Stocks Open Higher; U.S. Dollar Down (AP)

AP - Tokyo stocks edged higher early Wednesday, taking a cue from Wall Street where investors welcomed the U.S. Federal Reserve's upbeat view of the economy and its decision to raise interest rates. The dollar was lower against the Japanese yen.


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

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


CBS News on defensive as fresh revelations emerge on Bush report (AFP)

AFP - The CBS television network was forced onto the defensive again as fresh revelations emerged concerning a critical report it broadcast on President George W. Bush's National Guard service in the 1970s.


Ravens Add Ogden's Younger Brother to Practice Squad

BALTIMORE (Sports Network) - Baltimore signed Marques  Ogden, brother of Ravens All-Pro tackle Jonathan Ogden to the  club's practice squad on Tuesday.


Iraq Asks Pakistan for Troops; Georgia Volunteers

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - Iraq's interim prime minister,  Iyad Allawi, said on Tuesday he had pressed the president of  Pakistan to contribute troops to the U.S.-led multinational  force in his country.


Walking May Ward Off Alzheimer's

CHICAGO - Walking regularly at age 70 and beyond can help keep the mind sharp and ward off Alzheimer's disease, according to research suggesting that what is good for the heart is also good for the brain.    Some previous studies found that physical activity might stave off mental decline...


Giants Give Up Right to Void Bonds' Deal

SAN FRANCISCO - Barry Bonds will have two more seasons to break Hank Aaron's career home run record with the San Francisco Giants, who decided Tuesday to drop their right to void the final year of his contract.    The Giants scheduled an announcement for Tuesday night, and a source in baseball, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the news conference was to announce the change to Bonds' deal...


Sun foresees global pool of computing power

Seeking to boost its relevance, Sun Microsystems pursues the grid model of computing.


Will cell numbers be listed with 411?

Senators threaten to enact an opt-in rule. Wireless carriers say it's not necessary because they're doing just that.


Giants to Keep Bonds for at Least Two More Seasons

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Barry Bonds will chase the  all-time home run record as a San Francisco Giants player after  the team dropped its option to void the final year of the  slugger's contract in 2006.


Convention Timing Gives Bush Money Edge (AP)

AP - John Kerry cut his campaign spending sharply last month in an effort to stretch  #36;75 million in government funding, but he still started September with several million less than President Bush.


Enron Pressured Merrill in Deal -Attorney

HOUSTON (Reuters) - Enron Corp. ENRNQ.PK, desperate to  meet profit targets, "parked" unwanted power generating barges  at Merrill Lynch in a sham sale designed to be reversed, a  prosecutor said on Tuesday in the first criminal trial of  former executives at the fallen energy company.


Chiefs' Holmes Questionable for Sunday

KANSAS CITY, Mo., (Sports Network) - Kansas City Chiefs  running back Priest Holmes is questionable for Sunday's game  against Houston because of a sprained ankle.


Can the Hornets Conquer the West?

PHILADELPHIA (Sports Network) - The New Orleans Hornets are  going to have their work cut out for them in the 2004-05  season. When the NBA approved its realignment plan, the Hornets  became the newest member of the Western Conference as the  expansion Charlotte Bobcats were placed in the East, giving  each conference 15 clubs comprised of three divisions of five  teams.


Dollar Under Pressure, Focus on Fed

TOKYO (Reuters) - The dollar crept up on Wednesday,  although it stayed under pressure after the Federal Reserve  raised interest rates as expected but raised doubts about its  next move.  The policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee  raised rates by a quarter percentage point to 1.75 percent,  adding to similar increases in June and August.


Haiti Flood Death Toll Passes 700

GONAIVES, Haiti (Reuters) - Survivors of devastating  flooding in Haiti wandered mud-clogged streets in search of  food on Tuesday as officials said more than 700 people had been  killed and at least 1,000 were missing.


Group in Iraq Says Kills Second U.S. Hostage

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Al Qaeda-linked militants said they had  killed a second American hostage and threatened to kill a  Briton unless women prisoners in Iraq were freed.


A Defiant Iran Starts Enriching Uranium

Defying a U.N., Iran began enriching uranium for what it says is a power project, but the gas could be refined to use for bombs.


LSU Tops AP Poll for 2nd Straight Week (AP)

AP - Look no farther than the Bayou State for the major developments in the AP women's basketball poll: LSU is unanimous, while Louisiana Tech is out.


Internet ad tevenues jump

AMERICAN INTERNET advertising revenues have increased by more than 40 per cent in the first six months of this year. According to bean counters Price Waterhouse Coopers, US revenues for the first six months


Sony Computer to launch worldwide sales of new PS2 console in Nov

TOKYO, Sep 21, 2004 (AFX-UK via COMTEX) -- TOKYO (AFX) - Sony Computer Entertainment Inc, the game unit of Sony Corp, will roll out worldwide a new, smaller version of the PlayStation 2 game console from the start of November, company President Ken


Sun Microsystems on Tuesday took what it says are early steps toward a future in which computing power is sold as a commodity like electricity.


A Cycling Medalist Denies Evidence of Doping

Tyler Hamilton, the American bicycle racer who won a gold medal in the individual time trial at the Olympics last month in Athens, is suspected of receiving illegal performance


Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2005

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2005 challenges gamers to take on the man who has changed golf foreverTiger Woods. The revolutionary new Tiger-Proofing course alteration technology will change the way golf is played.


Beckham #39;s goal gives new Real Madrid coach win in debut

David Beckham scored on a free kick in the 61st minute to put Real Madrid atop the Spanish league standings with a 1-0 victory over Osasuna on Tuesday in coach Mariano Garcia Remon #39;s debut.


US out to restore pride in tie with Belarus

Hot favourites the US will seek to restore lost American pride when they take on Belarus in a Davis Cup semi-final starting on Friday.


National Post

Even if he says he doesn #39;t care -- even if he pretends to ignore it -- the question lingers like a beachball-sized hanging curve: How many home runs does Barry Bonds have to hit?


Prior can see team putting it together

Pitcher Mark Prior said the Cubs have survived the early part of the season-ending road trip, and promised good things to come as the team winds up the regular season at home.


Sports: Kennedy out for season with knee injury

ANAHEIM, Calif. The Anaheim Angels will be without second baseman Adam Kennedy as they pursue a postseason berth. Kennedy tore up his right knee in the fifth inning of last night #39;s 5-to-2 win over Seattle.


Nate Archibald hired as coach of Jam

Nate Archibald, a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame and the NBA #39;s 50th anniversary all-time team, was hired as coach of the American Basketball Association champion Long Beach Jam on Tuesday.


Making seamless transition to Paralympics will be a challenge <b>...</b>

VANCOUVER (CP) - How to make a seamless transition from the Olympics to the Paralympics is one of the lessons a five-member team from the Vancouver 2010 Organizing Committee is learning during a visit to the Athens Paralympic Games, said VANOC CEO John


The proper response to difficulty is not to retreat but to prevail <b>...</b>

President George W Bush delivered an unapologetic defence of his record before the United Nations yesterday, saying there was no security in looking away from threats to global security.


Lebanese FM: Syrian troops will stay until Israel quits <b>...</b>

Syria will withdraw fully from Lebanon only after Israel ends its occupation of all Arab lands, Lebanese Defense Minister Mahmoud Hammoud declared yesterday.


Coles Myer Full-Year Profit Rises 44 on Sales Growth (Update1)

Coles Myer Ltd., Australia #39;s biggest retailer, said full-year profit rose 44 percent after boosting sales, cutting costs and increasing earnings at its department stores.


Spain #39;s BBVA Acquires Laredo National Bancshares for \$850 Million

Spanish banking giant Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA) said in a filing with securities regulators Tuesday it was acquiring US-based Laredo National Bancshares (LNB) for \$850 million.


Nintendo to sell new game device

Nintendo Co. of Redmond, Wash., says its new hand-held videogame device will be available in the United States in time for the holiday retail season.


worm has turned for teen virus king

Sven Jaschan, 18, from Germany, faces up to five years in prison for writing and spreading the Sasser and Netsky worms, said to have cost businesses around the world millions of pounds.


I #39;m still ahead of Nicklaus #39;s pace, says Woods

Despite enduring his worst season since turning professional nine years ago, Tiger Woods says he is on track to overtake Jack Nicklaus #39;s haul of 18 major championship victories.


Barry Bonds will chase the all-time home run record as a San Francisco Giants player after the team dropped its option to void the final year of the slugger #39;s contract in 2006.


Notes: Fans expected to behave

Rangers team officials did not think it was necessary to assign extra security for the Oakland bullpen to keep hecklers away from Athletics relievers during Tuesday night #39;s game.


Oil Holds Above \$46 Supply Worries Linger

Oil prices held firm on Tuesday as China showed no let-up in its strong import growth and US Gulf producers reported damage to offshore rigs from Hurricane Ivan.


City comment

The figures were not Stuart Rose #39;s fault, but if ever there was an occasion for a little humility, this was surely it. Instead, the new chief executive of Marks  amp; Spencer gave us his Brian Clough moment.


Pulse News - September 21, 2004

GamesAreFun has screenshots and info on the upcoming PStwo that will be released in the US on November 1. In other Playstation news, Yahoo!


Haiti Flood Death Toll Passes 700 (Reuters)

Reuters - Survivors of devastating\flooding in Haiti wandered mud-clogged streets in search of\food on Tuesday as officials said more than 700 people had been\killed and at least 1,000 were missing.


Revamped EMusic Targets Indie Market (AP)

AP - Nearly a year since it was sold by Vivendi Universal to private investors, online retailer eMusic has undergone a facelift that includes a panel of music critics to help users comb its trove of independent music.


Enron Pressured Merrill in Deal -Attorney (Reuters)

Reuters - Enron Corp. , desperate to\meet profit targets, "parked" unwanted power generating barges\at Merrill Lynch in a sham sale designed to be reversed, a\prosecutor said on Tuesday in the first criminal trial of\former executives at the fallen energy company.


Group in Iraq Says Kills Second U.S. Hostage (Reuters)

Reuters - Al Qaeda-linked militants said they had\killed a second American hostage and threatened to kill a\Briton unless women prisoners in Iraq were freed.


Tresnet AB Contracts with 3Com

3Com Corp. today announced an agreement worth approximately \$1.9 million with privately held Tresnet AB, Sweden, to supply Voice Core eXchange (VCX) V7000 IP Telephony Voice Systems and Services for an initial


Winslow, Two Other Browns Undergo Surgery (Reuters)

Reuters - Cleveland Browns tight end\Kellen Winslow, defensive end Courtney Brown and cornerback\Daylon McCutcheon all had surgery Tuesday.


Can the Hornets Conquer the West? (Reuters)

Reuters - The New Orleans Hornets are\going to have their work cut out for them in the 2004-05\season. When the NBA approved its realignment plan, the Hornets\became the newest member of the Western Conference as the\expansion Charlotte Bobcats were placed in the East, giving\each conference 15 clubs comprised of three divisions of five\teams.


Russia to Help Train South Korean Astronaut by 2007 (Reuters)

Reuters - Russia agreed on Tuesday to help train\South Korea's first astronaut by 2007 -- although it is still\not clear whether Seoul's space cadet will make it into orbit\that year.


Report: Worker confidence up

More Americans are quitting their jobs and taking the risk of starting a business despite a still-lackluster job market.


Briefly: House takes on piracy, 'video voyeurism'

roundup Plus: Verizon sets up Iobi Home...Sun makes financial pitch...PeopleSoft-Oracle trial delayed.


UK growth prediction upgraded by think-tank

A LEADING international think-tank yesterday upgraded its forecast of UK growth this year from 3.1 to 3.4, while cutting its prediction for the US but raising its expectations for the euro area and Japan.


Montreal Expos all but gone after this season, says team president

MONTREAL (CP) - The Montreal Expos will probably leave the city after this season and the league will overcome any remaining hurdles that could keep the franchise in town, team President Tony Tavares said Tuesday.


Notes: Sweeney #39;s season finished

Slugger Mike Sweeney, much like the Royals #39; season, is gone. The four-time All-Star first baseman left the team and flew back home to California after Monday night #39;s game against the Devil Rays.


Turner expects Beutjer to start vs. Purdue

Illinois head coach Ron Turner expects Jon Beutjer to be in the starting lineup when the Illini start Big Ten play Saturday against No.


iMac G5: Coolest Computer Ever

Describing the new iMac G5, Chris Taylor writes in TIME,  #147;What you get for that money is quite possibly the coolest personal computer yet created. The cool is more than merely aesthetic. Unlike a lot of previous Mac machines, on which you could almost fry an egg, the iMac G5 #146;s beautiful white surface does not get noticeably hot. Nor, at a whisper-quiet 25 decibels, does it make enough noise for most people to hear #133; #148;  Sep 07


Iran Defies U.N. Nuclear Watchdog (AP)

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


Lucent, mm02 Partner on 3G Wireless

MmO2 PLC announced today the launch of its third-generation (3G) European mobile data network. The network will incorporate HSDPA technology and IMS and will position the mobile phone company


Japan seeks UN payback with permanent Security Council seat (AFP)

AFP - Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi pitched Japan's bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat to world leaders, calling it just reward for Tokyo's contributions to global peace and security.


Vancouver mayor says he wants Ottawa's permission for safe inhalation site (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - VANCOUVER (CP) - If Health Canada agrees, Vancouver crack addicts could have a safe place to inhale their drugs within the city's pioneer safe injection site.


Gene-Modified Grass Spreads Far, U.S. Study Finds (Reuters)

Reuters - Genetically engineered grass\developed for use on golf courses can spread its modified genes\for miles, carried by ultra-light pollen particles, U.S.\government researchers said on Tuesday.


Brazilians get tough new gun law

Tough anti-gun laws take effect in Brazil, to curb what the UN says is the world's fourth-highest murder rate.


Court clears Trevi of sex charges

Former Mexican pop star Gloria Trevi is cleared of sex abuse charges on the grounds of insufficient evidence.


US intelligence reform 'too fast'

Former top US officials warn against election year rush to reform US intelligence agencies.


IBM Wins Lloyds TSB Network Contract

IBM has signed a \$969-million deal to provide DSL-based Internet telephony and data services to Lloyds TSB, one of the largest banks in the UK.


2 Assessments of Iraq, 2 Election Strategies

The presidential candidates' opposed images of the war reflect opposed strategies for the final weeks of the campaign.


Islamist Web Site Reports Beheading of Second American

The group led by the Jordanian militant Abu Musab al-Zarqawi said that it would release a video of the second killing soon.


Bowden Bowl VI brings similar challenge to father, son

Though the game is two months earlier on the schedule, a near-identical challenge exists for Florida State as it begins preparations for Saturday #39;s 3:30 pm game against Clemson in Doak Campbell Stadium.


Iraq, Afghanistan seek continued aid

NEW YORK-The Iraqi and Afghan leaders both asked Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to continue assisting their war-ravaged countries, Japanese officials said Tuesday.


Fujitsu, Cisco to Develop Routers, Switches

Fujitsu Ltd. and Cisco Systems Inc. said today they have agreed to enter into a strategic alliance focusing on routers and switches that will help service providers and enterprises build advanced IP networks.


Latest Colaborata Upgrade Bows (Reuters)

Reuters - TransMedia has unveiled\the latest version of its Colaborata online media platform and\said that ASCAP and SLG Advertising were among the first\customers to license the product. Other major\entertainment-related customers will be announced soon.


Thin Crowd Watches Expos Beat Mets 6-1 (AP)

AP - Tony Batista homered twice to reach 30 this season, Livan Hernandez pitched another complete game and the Montreal Expos beat the New York Mets 6-1 Tuesday night before just 3,839 at Olympic Stadium.


Home Games Scrapped

The Capitals join several teams in announcing the cancellation of the preseason and some regular season games on Tuesday.


NHLers Hit Europe

With an NHL lockout in place, more than 150 of the league's players have signed to play for European teams.


Imoh Returns

Versatile Mike Imoh returns to Virginia Tech for Saturday's pivotal game against N.C. State after serving a three-game suspension.


No Lumber for Woods

After much fanfare last week over Tiger Woods's decision to play in this week's 84 Lumber Classic, his agent said Tuesday that he was worn out from the Ryder Cup.


Two Arrested in Shooting Death of Idaho Cornerback

A University of Idaho football player was shot to death, and police arrested two brothers from Seattle after a car chase that extended across two states.


Vikings Impress in Loss

The Vikings drove the ball impressively on a tough Philadelphia Eagles defense, but their red zone failures left Minnesota short of victory, long on respect.


Ramsey Is Likely Starter

Redskins backup quarterback Patrick Ramsey took an abundance of the snaps during practice Tuesday and remains likely to start Monday's game against Dallas at FedEx Field.


Rose admits to  #39;dismal #39; M amp;S sales

Marks  amp; Spencer yesterday revealed a further deterioration in trade - with dire new sales figures for its fashion, food and homewares - as it launched a 2.


Job fears as Deutsche culls chiefs

Deutsche Bank is streamlining the management of its investment banking arm, raising fears that jobs may be lost in the City. The German bank is reducing the number of executives running its investment banking


Tesco reigns supreme as it announces 24 rise in profits

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


Mars Rovers #39; Mission Extends with New Goals, New Funding

The Mars rovers emerged from a communications blackout period and the low point of winter today with new funding and big plans for the journey ahead.


Champ Twins, Cards chase one more goal: the home-field edge

The St. Louis Cardinals and Minnesota Twins, who celebrated clinching the NL and AL Central Division titles on Monday, have the same agenda the last two weeks of the season


Devil Rays 7, Royals 4

Jorge Cantu hit a go-ahead, two-run double during a five-run eighth inning to help the Tampa Bay Devil Rays beat the Kansas City Royals 7-4 Tuesday night.


Expos 6, Mets 1

Tony Batista homered twice to reach 30 this season, Livan Hernandez pitched another complete game and the Montreal Expos beat the New York Mets 6-1 Tuesday night before just 3,839 at Olympic Stadium.


NASD fines Morgan Stanley \$100,000

WASHINGTON -- The National Association of Securities Dealers censured Morgan Stanley and fined the securities firm \$100,000 for failing to disclose to municipal bond buyers that the bonds could be called before their maturity dates, which could result in


Report: 10 Held in Alleged Embassy Plot (AP)

AP - Italian and Lebanese authorities have arrested 10 suspected terrorists who planned to blow up the Italian Embassy in Beirut, an Italian news agency and the Defense Ministry said Tuesday.


Malaysia's Anwar mulls multi-party alliance (AFP)

AFP - Malaysia's former deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim has made no commitment yet to join any political party but is likely to play a role in a multi-party alliance, probably in opposition, he told AFP.


Agency to Designate Habitat for Dragonfly (AP)

AP - Prodded by a lawsuit, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has agreed to designate critical habitat for the endangered Hine's emerald dragonfly.


Kerry, Bush exchange blows over Iraq as president addresses UN (AFP)

AFP - Democratic White House hopeful John Kerry on Tuesday renewed his pointed attacks on President George W. Bush's handling of Iraq, accusing him of failing to  quot;level with the world's leaders quot; about the war during his speech at the United Nations.


US, EU to give negotiations on Boeing-Airbus subsidy row more time

PARIS (AFP) - The United States and the European Union agreed to allow more time for talks to settle a row over government help to aircraft makers Boeing and Airbus but said arbitration by the WTO remained an option.


Eagles Solve Culpepper-Moss Problem

Give the Vikings all the yards they wanted, just not a big play. The formula worked to perfection in the Eagles' 27-16 victory Monday night.


The Former Cat Stevens Gets Plane Diverted

WASHINGTON - A plane bound for Washington from London was diverted to Maine on Tuesday after passenger Yusuf Islam - formerly known as pop singer Cat Stevens - showed up on a U.S. watch list, federal officials said...


Giambi Ends Slump As Yanks Beat Blue Jays

NEW YORK - Jason Giambi homered to end the longest slump of his career and Esteban Loaiza finally earned his 100th career victory and first for the Yankees, leading New York over the Toronto Blue Jays 5-3 Tuesday night.    Gary Sheffield hit his 36th home run two days after getting a pair of cortisone shots...


MCI Not Liable for Legal Costs From SEC Probe

Creditors asked the court to force MCI to cover the costs of gathering documents demanded by the SEC.
-The Washington Post


Critics Say Bill Could Trigger Flood of Faxes

Bill designed to clarify rules for advertising via fax could expose consumers to a flood of unwanted solicitations. -The Washington Post


Rumsfeld Sees U.S. Troops Leaving Iraq Within 4 Years

The defense secretary also cautioned that any final decision hinged on the progress of Iraq's new government.


Nikkei Reverses Opening Gains (Reuters)

Reuters - Tokyo's Nikkei average reversed opening\gains to fall 0.69 percent by midsession on Wednesday as early\buying on exporters, inspired by gains on Wall Street after an\increase in U.S. interest rates, ran out of steam.


Growing Signs of a Slowing on Wall Street

all Street #39;s earnings growth, fueled by two years of robust trading gains, is showing signs that it may taper off in coming quarters as a sluggish stock market and a less-favorable trading environment take a toll on profits.


Appeals court cuts punitive damages in tobacco suit to \$50 million

LOS ANGELES Punitive damages of 100 (m) million dollars awarded to the family of a man who sued tobacco giant Philip Morris have been slashed in half by a state appeals court in Los Angeles.


Blogs look burly after kicking sand on CBS

Bloggers enjoy a moment of glory after pooling their expertise to uncover the truth about the forged memos on Bush #39;s service record.


Woods withdraws from 84 Lumber Classic

Tournament officials of the 84 Lumber Classic confirmed on Tuesday that Woods has withdrawn from the event, which is scheduled to begin Thursday.


Manchester United #39;s Keane faces assault charge

Manchester United captain Roy Keane was charged with assault and criminal damage on Tuesday for a fight on September 4, police said.


Nottingham Forest lead tributes to Clough

LONDON: Nottingham Forest remembered Brian Clough as the architect of one of the great football achievements of all time after their former manager died from stomach cancer on Monday, aged 69.


Eagles Solve Culpepper-Moss Problem

The solution to a complex problem was deceptively simple. The Eagles had two 5-foot-10 cornerbacks starting for the first time this season to match up against Minnesota #39;s


Rangers 9, Athletics 4

The Texas Rangers aren #39;t giving up on their long-shot chance in the AL West. Michael Young hit a grand slam, Mark Teixeira had a two-run double and the Rangers beat All-Star starter Mark Mulder for the second


The District #39;s Play at the Plate Is Going to Be Very Close

This is definitely not the closest that Washington has come to getting a major league team to return to the District. In early 1974, Topps ran off baseball cards of 15 San Diego Padres, including


Bush Stands His Ground, Sets Himself Apart

President Bush #39;s speech before the UN General Assembly on Tuesday was the verbal equivalent of a  quot;greatest hits quot; album, repackaging and summarizing the key foreign


Both American hostages beheaded

Jack Hensley, the second American citizen held hostage in Iraq has been beheaded.(Xinhua/AFP Photo). BAGHDAD, Sept. 22 (Xinhuanet) -- A second American citizen held hostage in Iraq has been beheaded by his kidnappers, an Islamist website said Tuesday.


Venezuela gives US\$1m to Haiti after tropical storm Jeanne

Venezuela will give Haiti US\$1 million (euro810,000) to help the French-speaking Caribbean country recover from Tropical Storm Jeanne, which left at least 620 people dead and caused major damage last weekend, an official said


NASA Extends Mars Rover Mission 6 Months (AP)

AP - NASA thinks its Mars rovers just might keep going and going and going. The space agency has funded another extension of their mission, for an additional six months, if they last.


NL Wrap: Cubs Earn 10th-Inning Win in Pittsburgh (Reuters)

Reuters - Corey Patterson scampered home\following Salomon Torres's wild pitch in the first extra inning\to give the playoff-hopeful Chicago Cubs a 5-4 win over the\host Pittsburgh Pirates in the National League Tuesday.


Terrorist attacks abroad fail to dent Australia's sense of security (AFP)

AFP - On one side is Sydney Harbour Bridge, on the other Sydney Opera House and the relaxed faces give little indication that this area is probably Australia's prime terrorist target.


NL Wrap: Cubs Earn 10th-Inning Win in Pittsburgh

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Corey Patterson scampered home  following Salomon Torres's wild pitch in the first extra inning  to give the playoff-hopeful Chicago Cubs a 5-4 win over the  host Pittsburgh Pirates in the National League Tuesday.


Parts of Ariz. Border Crackdown Continue (AP)

AP - A government crackdown on illegal immigration in southern Arizona will continue beyond Sept. 30, the day the initiative was supposed to wrap up, a top Homeland Security official said Tuesday.


Japan Stocks Shed Early Gains

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese shares reversed opening gains to  fall 0.69 percent by midsession on Wednesday after early buying  of exporters, inspired by a rise on Wall Street after an  increase in U.S. interest rates, ran out of steam.


Stewart gets deadline

NEW YORK Martha Stewart must report to prison in less than three weeks, a federal judge ruled yesterday in granting her request to begin serving her sentence for lying about a stock sale.


The Last Raise for Gates and Ballmer?

Despite Microsoft #39;s many woes, the honchos got a bump this year. Considering the company #39;s outlook, their next may be a ways off.


Dollar Claws Back from Losses

TOKYO (Reuters) - The dollar edged up on Wednesday,  recovering some of the losses it made after the Fed raised U.S.  interest rates as expected but did little to change the  market's view that its monetary tightening cycle will continue.


Security firms merge to form Cybertrust

Information security firms TruSecure and Betrusted are expected to merge today, creating Cybertrust, one of the world #39;s largest privately owned security groups.


Rover Missions Renewed As Mars Emerges From Behind Sun

PASADENA, Calif., Sept. 21 (AScribe Newswire) -- As NASA #39;s Spirit and Opportunity rovers resumed reliable contact with Earth, after a period when Mars passed nearly behind the Sun, the space agency extended


Rise of the Botnets

The first half of 2004 saw a huge increase in zombie PCs. Also called bots, their average numbers monitored by security firm Symantec rose between January and June from under 2,000 to more than 30,000 per day - peaking at 75,000 on one day.


Roma pay for referee incident with loss of game

Roma have paid a high price for the violent incident midway through their Champions League match against Dynamo Kiev last week. UEFA have acted severely in defence of their injured referee


Eriksson and Gerrard add to England woe

ENGLAND #39;S troubled build-up to their Wales showdown continued yesterday with Steven Gerrard #39;s injury diagnosis and fresh uncertainty over Sven-Goran Eriksson #39;s position.


Turkey not yet ready for EU entry: Barroso

PARIS: Turkey is not yet ready for entry into the European Union, but the 25-nation bloc cannot reject Ankaras membership if it meets all the requirements, the incoming EU Commission chief said on Tuesday.


Al-Qaeda leader obtained Australian visa

TONY EASTLEY: The Federal Government has confirmed reports that one of al-Qaeda #39;s most senior leaders obtained a tourist visa to come to Australia just one month before the September 11 attacks.


Japan trade surplus in shock fall

Figures show a fall in Japan's trade surplus, casting a shadow over the country's export-led recovery.


A modified R24 for China

The R24 has undergone several revisions ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix. Technical Director Bob Bell explains what's new.


D.C. Unveils Stadium Plan

Rumors spread that Major League Baseball is edging closer to moving the Expos to Washington as D.C. officials announce plans for a stadium on the Anacostia waterfront.


Growing Signs of a Slowing on Wall Street

Third-quarter results from Goldman Sachs and Lehman Brothers point to many difficult months ahead for Wall Street.


The Former Cat Stevens Gets Plane Diverted

WASHINGTON - A London-to-Washington flight was diverted to Maine on Tuesday when it was discovered passenger Yusuf Islam - formerly known as singer Cat Stevens - was on a government watch list and barred from entering the country, federal officials said.    United Airlines Flight 919 was en route to Dulles International Airport when the match was made between a passenger and a name on the watch list, said Nico Melendez, a spokesman for the Transportation Security Administration...


Russian Drug Unit Maligned Over Dubious Tactics, Priorities

Formed a year ago to bring the full force of the country's law enforcement to bear against a growing drug crisis, Russia's powerful new drug-fighting agency has an army of 40,000 at its disposal, four times larger than the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.


Fed pushes interest rates up again

The Federal Reserve boosted a key short-term interest rate by one-quarter percentage point today, marking the third increase this year.


Spain #39;s BBVA to acquire Texas-based financial group

MADRID, Spain Spain #39;s second-largest bank says it has agreed to buy Texas-based Laredo National Bancshares for 850 (m) million dollars in cash.


Wind disperses genes of bioengineered grass

Genes from a biotech turf grass have spread as much as 13 miles from a test plot - a discovery that confirms the ability of altered traits to spread great distances into the wild on wind-borne pollen.


Nintendo's Newest Product Aims for Adults

The Nintendo DS, which is geared for adults and older teenage video game players, has wireless capability for the Internet and two display screens.


Bush defends Iraq war

President George W Bush delivered an unapologetic defence of his decision to invade Iraq, telling the United Nations yesterday that it  quot;helped to deliver the Iraqi people from an outlaw dictator quot;.


Belgian PM in Car Crash

Belgian prime minister Guy Verhofstadt is recovering in hospital today, after his chauffeur-driven car crashed into a concrete pillar near his home and overturned several times.


Navy to Award  #36;6.4 Bln Satellite Contract (Reuters)

Reuters - The U.S. Navy will soon announce\whether Lockheed Martin Corp.  or Raytheon Co. \will build a  #36;6.4 billion communications system to beef up\satellite services for U.S. troops, the White House and State\Department, a spokesman said on Tuesday.


This Date in Baseball (AP)

AP - 1911  #151; Cy Young, 44, beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 1-0 for his 511th and final major league victory.


Legal Loophole Inflates Profits in Student Loans

The government is paying hundreds of millions of dollars in unnecessary subsidies to student loan companies even though the White House has the authority to cut them off.


PONTING BACKS VAUGHAN #39;S MEN

Australia are backing England to go on to win the ICC Champions Trophy after losing their one-day stranglehold over their arch rivals yesterday.


Notes: Kennedy lost for season

The Angels suffered a huge blow to their playoff chances Tuesday when they learned that second baseman Adam Kennedy suffered a season-ending knee injury in Monday night #39;s game.


Antarctic Glaciers Melting Faster -Study

Glaciers once held up by a floating ice shelf off Antarctica are now sliding off into the sea -- and they are going fast, scientists said on Tuesday.


Government Source Code Review Program Expanded to Office

Microsoft on Sunday expanded its controversial Government Security Program to allow governments that Microsoft trusts to review the source code of Microsoft Office.


Clampdown on AS Roma

Nyon, Switzerland - European soccer #39;s governing body on Tuesday awarded Dynamo Kiev a 3-0 forfeit victory and ordered AS Roma to play two matches behind closed doors because a fan injured Swedish referee Anders Frisk during a Champions #39; League match last


SI.com

ARLINGTON, Texas (Ticker) -- After a dominant effort against the Texas Rangers in his first start of the season, Mark Mulder has left much to be desired in his last three meetings with the division rivals.


Watching Bush and Putin

THE 59th session of the UN General Assembly got underway in New York yesterday amid growing anxieties over grinding poverty faced by billions of souls and the fuel it provides for terrorism


Cat Stevens sparks US alert

A London-to-Washington flight is diverted after a security alert involving the singer formerly known as Cat Stevens.


Disney to Hire Search Firm to Find New Chief by June

Disney directors said they would hire an executive search firm immediately and name a successor by June to replace Michael D. Eisner, the current chief executive.


Enron fraud trial starts

Six former Enron Corp. and Merrill Lynch  amp; Co. executives were accused yesterday of disguising a \$7 million loan as a sale of energy-producing barges to  quot;help Enron out of a jam quot; and artificially increase its revenue.


OECD lifts forecast for First World economies

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) yesterday offered an optimistic assessment of prospects for the world #39;s leading industrialised economies.


New Nintendo hand-held game device to debut in US

In a shift in strategy, Nintendo was expected to announce yesterday that it plans to begin selling its next generation of hand-held video game devices in the US in time for the Christmas season.


Mars Rovers to Keep Rolling

If they last, the space agency has funded another extension of their mission for the next six months. The latest funding came as NASA regained reliable contact with the rovers Spirit and Opportunity after


American League Game Summary - Kansas City at Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay has won six of eight against the Royals this season, but Kansas City holds a slight 14-13 edge since the start of the 2001 campaign...Bell has seven career games against the Royals and is 2-0...Bell made his first start of the month and made his


Conversion of uranium to continue, vows Iran

VIENNA, Sept 21: Iran defied the United Nations on Tuesday by announcing it would go on converting a large amount of raw uranium to prepare it for enrichment, a process that can be used to develop atomic bombs.


Haiti Death Toll Rises to 700-Plus

Bodies lay in growing piles outside mortuaries today as United Nations peacekeepers planned the first major distribution of food and water in Haiti, devastated by floods that tore apart families and left hungry crowds that have mobbed truckloads of aid.


Iraqi army revival discussed

NEW YORK, Sept 21: Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi discussed proposals for rejuvenating the Iraqi army when he met President Pervez Musharraf in New York Monday evening, officials told Dawn.


Syrian pullback of some forces near Beirut meets with skepticism?

Syria #39;s decision to pull back some of its forces from hills near Beirut, an apparent attempt to deflect international pressure to get its army out of Lebanon altogether, was met with caution, skepticism and concern that the move may not end Damascus


PeopleSoft, Unfazed, Announces 5-Year Pact With IBM

PeopleSoft announced a broad partnership with IBM on Tuesday, in an attempt to show that it is moving forward aggressively despite the turmoil created by Oracle #39;s \$7.


Lawyer outed as source of forged-memo claim

It was the first public allegation that CBS News used forged memos in its report questioning President Bush #39;s National Guard service -- a highly technical


Zee to file petition in SC

Zee Telefilms is expected to file a petition in the Supreme Court today against the Board of Control for Cricket in India #39;s (BCCI) decision to cancel a tender awarded to it to telecast Indian cricket team #39;s matches over the next four years.


American League Game Summary - Oakland at Texas

Carlos Almanzar left the game with an apparent right forearm injury with two outs in the ninth...Texas beat the A #39;s for only the seventh time in 18 outings this season, but have won three of four from Oakland...Mark Kotsay and Jermaine Dye had three hits


Bush: No apology, no retreat on Iraq

UNITED NATIONS - President Bush unapologetically defended his decision to invade Iraq and asked skeptical world leaders on Tuesday to do more to help secure and rebuild the country.


Coles Myer rings up record profit

Australia #39;s biggest retailer Coles Myer has posted a record net profit of Aust. \$576.5 million (\$403 million) and says it is on track to achieve its 2006 target of A\$800 million.


Tech Briefs

Maggie Wilderotter, a Microsoft Corp. executive in charge of cultivating and improving relationships with governments and education groups, is leaving the company after nearly two years.


Deutsche Bank #39;s Chief Shuffles Top Executive Ranks

Deutsche Bank shuffled the ranks in its executive suite on Tuesday, putting more power into the hands of two prominent investment bankers based in London, but also naming


JPMorgan #39;s Dimon, Three Months on Job, Reshuffles Leadership

Jamie Dimon waited less than three months after becoming president of JPMorgan Chase  amp; Co. to install as finance chief a banker he worked with for more than a decade.


Smoker #39;s award cut to \$50M from \$3B

Appeals court says punitive award against Philip Morris is still  #39;excessive #39; and must be halved. LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A California appeals court has ruled that a smoker #39;s \$3 billion punitive damages award


Analysis: Guard memo blunder raises questions about future of  #39;60 <b>...</b>

Dan Rather #39;s storied career at CBS could be nearing an ignominious close. He, his producer and his network authored one of broadcast journalism #39;s most embarrassing chapters


Music player market on a high

Analysts at IDC say the market could grow from the 12.5 million units shipped last year, predicting a compound growth rate of 20 per cent each year.


AL Wrap: Red Sox Edge Orioles, Keep Pace with Yankees

Mark Bellhorn singled to deep center with two men gone in the ninth inning to plate the decisive runs and help the Boston Red Sox rally for a 3-2 win over the Baltimore Orioles in the American League Tuesday.


NL Wrap: Cubs Earn 10th-Inning Win in Pittsburgh

Corey Patterson scampered home following Salomon Torres #39;s wild pitch in the first extra inning to give the playoff-hopeful Chicago Cubs a 5-4 win over the host Pittsburgh Pirates in the National League Tuesday.


Commodities power Goldman profit

NEW YORK (CBS.MW) -- Goldman Sachs Group said Tuesday that its third-quarter net income rose as its fixed-income, currencies and commodities trading operation recorded sales that were nearly \$1 billion ahead of year-ago levels, driven by rising energy


Tropical storm kills over 622 in Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE: Floods unleashed by Tropical Storm Jeanne ravaged Haiti, killing more than 622 people in this deeply impoverished Caribbean nation, as well as 18 others elsewhere in the Caribbean.


Giants Clobber Astros 9-2 (AP)

AP - Barry Bonds praised his teammates for their clutch play while he's been busy walking all season, then watched them go out and do most of the work Tuesday night.


Padres Defeat Dodgers 9-4 (AP)

AP - Ramon Vazquez and Ramon Hernandez each hit a three-run homer for the San Diego Padres, and Adam Eaton beat Los Angeles for the fourth time this season in a 9-4 victory Tuesday night that cut the Dodgers' NL West lead to 1 1/2 games over San Francisco.


U.S. Oil Clings Near  #36;47 (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. oil prices hovered near  #36;47 a\barrel on Wednesday, awaiting data that was expected to show a\big drop in fuel stocks in the United States due to\weather-related disruptions to output and shipments.


U.S. Oil Clings Near \$47

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - U.S. oil prices hovered near \$47 a  barrel on Wednesday, awaiting data that was expected to show a  big drop in fuel stocks in the United States due to  weather-related disruptions to output and shipments.


Dollar Regains Some Ground Lost

TOKYO (Reuters) - The dollar edged up on Wednesday,  recovering some of the losses it made after the Fed raised U.S.  interest rates as expected but did little to change the  market's view that monetary tightening would continue at a  moderate pace.


Cubs Stay Hot

Pirates reliever Salomon Torres' wild pitch scores the go-ahead run for the Cubs in the 10th inning as Chicago defeats Pittsburgh, 5-4, on Tuesday.


Ichiro Raps Five Hits

The hits just keep on comin' for Ichiro Suzuki. Suzuki collects five hits in the Mariners' 7-3 victory over the Angels on Saturday night, pulling him 14 hits shy of the season record of 257.


Giants Clobber Astros 9-2

SAN FRANCISCO - Barry Bonds praised his teammates for their clutch play while he's been busy walking all season, then watched them go out and do most of the work Tuesday night.    Pedro Feliz matched his career high with four RBIs, and Brett Tomko won his sixth straight decision in the San Francisco Giants' 9-2 victory over the Houston Astros...


Iger is board #39;s Disney guy

Although he may face strong competition from rivals outside the company, Walt Disney Co. president and chief operating officer Robert Iger was assured by Disney #39;s board of directors Tuesday


More cheer in retail ahead

The holiday season may not reach 2003 levels but will be up, National Retail Federation says. By Joan Verdon. Hackensack, NJ - The holidays will be slightly less jolly for retailers this year, but they still


Insurer receives  #39;Wells notice #39; over PNC transactions

NEW YORK (CBS.MW) -- The Securities and Exchange Commission is considering charging American International Group for violating federal securities laws, the insurer said Tuesday.


AMD extends chip deal with IBM

A FILING WITH the Securities and Exchange Commission shows that AMD has extended its existing deal with IBM. According to Investors.


Microsoft looks to quicken Windows XP SP2 adoption

Prior to the release of Windows XP Service Pack 2, Microsoft set a goal of having 100 million copies distributed through its automatic update (Windows Update downloads not included).


Yankees beat Blue Jays 5-3 to stay 4 1-2 games ahead of Boston in <b>...</b>

Jason Giambi took a curtain call and Esteban Loaiza got the souvenir ball. For a pair of guys struggling since playing in the all-star game, it was a nice time to break out.


Search Marketing in Europe

Search marketing is increasingly global, but a local focus is still vital to achieve your goals.  What does it take to have a successful search marketing campaign in Europe?


Wall St. on trial over Enron

Six former Enron and Merrill Lynch executives were accused Tuesday of disguising a \$7 million loan as a sale of energy-producing barges to  quot;help Enron out of a jam quot; and artificially boost its revenue.


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

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


Albertsons shops in gourmet aisle with purchase of Bristol Farms

LOS ANGELES Grocery giant Albertsons says it has purchased Bristol Farms, which operates eleven upscale stores in Southern California.


No proof of mobile health risk: Nordic countries

There is no scientific evidence that mobile phone use or exposure to base stations below internationally accepted levels pose a health risk, radiation authorities in the Nordic countries said on Tuesday.


Hamilton may lose gold medal

MADRID - Tyler Hamilton, US Olympic time-trial cycling champion, had apparently failed tests to detect performance-enhancing blood transfusions, his Phonak team said yesterday .


BCCI cancels own telecast rights tender

MUMBAI, SEPTEMBER 21: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) today informed the Bombay High Court that it was cancelling the entire tender process regarding cricket telecast rights as also the conditional deal with Zee TV.


Bellhorn comes up big for Red Sox

com. OK, so there was nobody on first. But there were runners on second and third with two out in the bottom of the ninth inning. And the Red Sox did trail by a run, having already blown


Top al-Qaida figure got Australian tourist visa in Aug 2001

SYDNEY - Australian Prime Minister John Howard confirmed Wednesday that the alleged mastermind of the Sept 11, 2001, attacks by al-Qaida on the United States was granted a tourist visa to visit Australia only a month before the attacks.


quot;Friedrich Christian Flick Collection quot;

The Friedrich Christian Flick Collection, one of the most significant collections of contemporary art in the world, will be presented to the public for the first time at a large-scale special exhibition, opening on 22 September 2004.


PeopleSoft, Unfazed, Announces 5-Year Pact With I.B.M.

PeopleSoft's partnership with I.B.M. is an attempt to show that it is moving forward aggressively despite the turmoil created by Oracle's hostile takeover bid.


Nintendo and Sony Square Off in Handheld Game Market

Sony and Nintendo made separate product announcements ahead of the highly competitive holiday shopping season.


Spain's San Sebastian festival shows filmmaking still a man's world (AFP)

AFP - Filmmaking is still largely a man's domain, if the offerings of the San Sebastian film festival in Spanish and similar events are anything to go by.


Fishermen Attack Galapagos Protesters (AP)

AP - A group of some 40 fishermen hurled rocks at park rangers who have been blocking the entrance to research stations on the Galapagos Islands in protest of the replacement of their director.


Four nations launch UN seat bid

\Brazil, Germany, Japan and India launch a joint bid for permanent seats on the UN Security Council.


Pakistan and US hold terror talks

Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf is to hold talks with President Bush in New York on the war against terror.


Fed ups rate by quarter point

For the third time in as many meetings, the Federal Reserve raised a key interest rate by a quarter of a point, which experts say sends a message the economy is moving in the right direction at the right speed.


Bank stocks climb on earnings reports

Investment bank stocks rose Tuesday after Goldman Sachs and Lehman Bros. reported surprisingly strong third-quarter results, indicating that sluggish market conditions this summer did not dent Wall Street earnings.


PeopleSoft CEO:  #39;We will not blink #39; in fight against Oracle

PeopleSoft (PSFT) CEO Craig Conway isn #39;t about to go down without a fight in his company #39;s takeover tussle with rival Oracle (ORCL).


Sun wants computing to be commodity

BIG TIN firm Sun is planning a brave new world where computing power is sold as a commodity and spare capacity is flogged off to other companies.


NASA rovers will explore Mars for six more months

PASADENA, CALIF. - The twin Martian robotic rovers Spirit and Opportunity will explore the Red Planet for another six months, NASA said Tuesday.


Verizon launches Iobi phone manager service

Verizon Communications on Tuesday launched its Iobi service that merges regular telephone lines with Internet-based features such as voice messages available through e-mail and automatic call forwarding.


Mobile phones are safe say Nordic boffins

A GROUP of scientists from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland have issued a joint statement clearing mobile phones from those who accuse them of dosing you with killer radiation.


Expected, unexpected for M #39;s

Spiezio made his first major contribution to the Mariners in over three months, driving in four runs in a 7-3 victory over the Anaheim Angels last night.


New Wave of Colombia Drug Kingpins Emerges (AP)

AP - A new wave of drug kingpins is emerging in Colombia  #151; traffickers who operate from the shadows, seeking only profits and avoiding the excesses of previous generations of drug lords, a top intelligence official said.


Iraq woman prisoner 'to be freed'

Reports suggest an Iraqi woman scientist may be freed, as militants reportedly kill a second US hostage.


Air pollution causes five million deaths each year in India: minister (AFP)

AFP - As many as five million deaths are caused by air pollution every year in India, the country's junior Environment and Forest Minister Namo Narayan Meena said.


Spanish giant has deal to buy Laredo National

One of Spain #39;s largest banks will soon be crossing the Mexican border in search of Hispanic customers. BBVA announced Tuesday it plans to buy Laredo National Bancshares for \$850 million.


Jacques Villeneuve, Schumacher, other Formula One stars arrive in <b>...</b>

World champion Michael Schumacher arrived in Shanghai on Wednesday, along with a host of other Formula One stars, as preparations got underway for the debut of the Chinese Grand Prix.


Bush defends decision to invade Iraq at UN General Assembly

At the opening of the 59th UN General Assembly, Bush talked up the scheduled elections in the country and talked again of his vision of a democratic Middle East.


Second US hostage beheaded

The second of two American hostages in Iraq has been beheaded by a militant outfit headed by Al Qaeda ally Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, reports Arabic television channel Aljazeera quoting a statement on a Muslim extremist website.


Islam is being targetted

NEW YORK - President Pervez Musharraf Musharraf said Monday that Pakistan was committed to ridding the country of terrorist groups and their supporters.


Nikkei Hits One-Month Closing Low (Reuters)

Reuters - Japan's Nikkei average fell for a fifth\straight day to hit a one-month closing low on Wednesday as key\exporters and techs such as Kyocera Corp. extended losses on\renewed caution about the country's economic outlook.


Shell seeks to reassure investors

The Anglo-Dutch oil firm sets out to woo investors by explaining how it will boost its oil reserves at an analysts' briefing on Wednesday.


Group to lobby Ford over Jaguar

Jaguar workers will lobby Ford bosses at the Paris Motor Show over the threatened closure of the Browns Lane plant.


ADB lowers India #39;s 2005 growth forecast to 6

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) raised its 2004 economic growth forecast for the region to seven per cent from 6.8 per cent due to surging exports, but cut its 2005 estimate as it sees China #39;s expansion slowing.


Doping probe may tarnish Tyler: Marblehead cyclist could lose <b>...</b>

Cyclist Tyler Hamilton #39;s journey has taken him from the North Shore to the summit of Mount Olympus, but the Marblehead native now faces his greatest challenge as he fights a blood-doping


Al-Qaida eyed Australia since 2001

The mastermind of the Sept. 11 attacks was granted an Australian visa a month before the attacks, using one of 24 aliases that let him slip through the system.


Alitalia board approves relaunch plan: 3,700 employees to be <b>...</b>

After winning union acceptance of job cuts, Alitalia gave formal approval Monday to a four-year business plan aimed at saving the near-bankrupt Italian airline from collapse.


Stewart to start serving prison time by Oct. 8

NEW YORK -- Martha Stewart must report to prison by Oct. 8, a federal judge ruled Tuesday in granting the celebrity homemaker #39;s request to begin serving her sentence for lying about a stock sale.


Disney #39;s board eyeing Iger to replace Eisner

Walt Disney Co. #39;s board of directors said company President Robert Iger is  quot;the one internal candidate quot; to replace Disney Chief Executive Michael Eisner and that it also will consider outsiders.


Coles delivers record profit, positive outlook

Coles Myer, three years into a five-year turnaround journey, bettered its guidance with a record annual net profit of \$576.5 million on Wednesday and said it was well on the way to meeting its target of \$800 million in fiscal 2006.


TD Waterhouse settles SEC case

NEW YORK (CBS.MW) -- TD Waterhouse, the retail brokerage arm of Canada #39;s Toronto-Dominion Bank, agreed to pay \$2 million Tuesday to settle charges it made illegal cash payments to investment advisers in return for business.


New Data Strengthen Mars Life Evidence

Findings in the Martian atmosphere by the European Mars Express spacecraft orbiting the red planet correspond to areas where the US Mars Odyssey spacecraft has detected possible water ice just beneath the surface.


Blocking out the bad

QUESTION: What is the best approach to protecting me from ID theft and related activities? Will a software package work best, or must I go to a hardware firewall?


Ireland blocks 13 countries after net scams

THE REPUBLIC of Ireland is to block direct dial telephone calls to 13 countries in an effort to crack down on growing internet scams.


NATIONAL LEAGUE: Giants rock Astros; Cubs survive in 10

SAN FRANCISCO -- Pedro Feliz matched his career high with four RBIs Tuesday, and Brett Tomko won his sixth straight decision in the San Francisco Giants #39; 9-2 defeat of the Houston Astros.


GAME 150: Indians 8, Tigers 7

a-singled for Hafner in the 6th. b-walked for Young in the 7th. c-sacrificed for Young in the 9th. E: Peralta (1), BPhillips (1), Infante (14).


Urges nations to aid Iraq, promote rights

President Bush stood before an annual gathering of world leaders yesterday and forcefully defended his decision to invade Iraq, urging all


Ruddock defends intel on Khalid

ATTORNEY-General Philip Ruddock has defended Australia #39;s approach to counter-terrorism despite a visa being granted to September 11 mastermind Khalid Shaikh Mohammed.


Asia terror affects Australia elections

Australian Prime Minister John Howard tried to reassure nervous Asian neighbors on Tuesday after saying he wanted to strike terror threats at the source, a key difference with opposition Labor before an Oct.


Striking Israelis Defy Court Order

An Israeli Labour court ordered tens of thousands of state employees back to work today. But the Histadrut Labour Federation said the workers would continue to strike until their demands are met.


Profit may silence critics: Coles Myer

Australia #39;s biggest retailer, Coles Myer, hopes it has silenced its detractors by posting a record annual profit, which was above its own guidance and market expectations.


Lucent Technologies cuts benefits for more retirees

For the second time in a year, telecommunications equipment maker Lucent Technologies Inc. is reducing benefits promised to retirees.


Outside View: In Arafat #39;s footsteps

The last time I met Marwan Barghouti, along with other notable Palestinians, I joked how impressive it was to see so many leading minds of the Palestinians together.


Britain Hopes and Prays for Hostage in Iraq (Reuters)

Reuters - Anxious Britons awaited news\on Wednesday of hostage Kenneth Bigley after his captors in\Iraq said they beheaded the second of two Americans being held\with him.


Explosion in Baghdad Kills One, Wounds 47 (AP)

AP - An explosion rocked a commercial district in western Baghdad on Wednesday, killing one person and wounding 47, authorities said.


Rising oil prices hit Japan's trade surplus (AFP)

AFP - Japan's trade surplus in August fell sharply for the first decline in 14 months as higher costs for imported oil combined with weaker export growth, prompting concerns about the country's economic outlook, the finance ministry said.


Maria Sharapova Advances in China Open (AP)

AP - Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova advanced to the quarterfinals of the China Open on Wednesday, routing fellow Russian Tatiana Panova 6-1, 6-1.


Australian PM outlines softer image for fourth term (AFP)

AFP - Australian Prime Minister John Howard outlined his vision for a fourth term as a new poll showed voters warming to the  quot;soft focus quot; leadership of the opposition Labor Party's Mark Latham.


Report: Prosecutors, CA Reach Accord (Reuters)

Reuters - The U.S. Justice Department has agreed\to defer prosecution of Computer Associates International Inc.\ in its long-running investigation of accounting fraud at\the software maker, the Wall Street Journal said on Wednesday,\citing people familiar with the matter.


Nikkei Hits One-Month Closing Low

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei average fell for a fifth  straight day to hit a one-month closing low on Wednesday as key  exporters and techs such as Kyocera Corp. dropped on renewed  caution about the country's economic outlook.


Britain Hopes and Prays for Hostage in Iraq

LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) - Anxious Britons awaited news  on Wednesday of hostage Kenneth Bigley after his captors in  Iraq said they beheaded the second of two Americans being held  with him.


Genetic Testing Challenges Medical Ethics (AP)

AP - Advances in genetic testing are straining the sacred bond of confidentiality between doctor and patient as physicians grapple with whether to keep private diagnoses that might also afflict patients' relatives.


End the steroid guilt by (players) association

You know who you are. The ones who choose the right path. The ones who perform at a competitive disadvantage. The ones who refuse to alter your bodies with performance-enhancing drugs.


S.Korea's Roh Says No Need to Rush North Atom Talks

MOSCOW (Reuters) - November's U.S. presidential election is  the main reason North Korea is stalling over talks on its  nuclear ambitions but there is no need to force the pace, South  Korean President Roh Moo-hyun said on Wednesday.


ADB sees stronger growth in Asia

The Asian Development Bank raises its forecast for regional growth to 7 in 2004, up from an earlier forecast of 6.8.


Singh named PGA Tour Player of Year

Vijay Singh, who won nine tournaments and more than \$10 million in 2004, was named PGA Tour Player of the Year Monday. Singh was chosen in a vote by his fellow golfers.


South Korea Completes Iraq Deployment of 2,800 Troops

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


Car blast rocks western Baghdad

A car bomb explodes in  western Baghdad, causing at least two deaths and much damage, reports say.


Yudhoyono close to poll victory

Indonesia's Susilo Yudhoyono remains on course to become the country's next president, with 75 of votes counted.


Ask K5: Meeting locals when travelling

While travelling I like to meet locals. In some countries this is easy, I look different and peole approach me. In other countries people are more reserved. What can I do in the latter case?


Passenger Cat Stevens Gets Plane Diverted

WASHINGTON - A London-to-Washington flight was diverted to Maine on Tuesday when it was discovered passenger Yusuf Islam - formerly known as singer Cat Stevens - was on a government watch list and barred from entering the country, federal officials said.    United Airlines Flight 919 was en route to Dulles International Airport when the match was made between a passenger and a name on the watch list, said Nico Melendez, a spokesman for the Transportation Security Administration...


U.N. to Deliver Aid to Haiti After Floods

GONAIVES, Haiti - Bodies lay in growing piles outside morgues as U.N. peacekeepers planned the first major distribution of food and water Wednesday in this city devastated by floods that have torn apart families and left hungry crowds that have mobbed truckloads of aid...


Airlines Told to Turn Over Passenger Data

WASHINGTON - Information on passengers who took a commercial flight within the United States in June will be turned over to the government so it can test a new system for identifying potential terrorists.    People will have a chance to tell the government what they think about the plan during a 30-day comment period, federal officials said on Tuesday...


Option Says New Mobile Data Card to Launch in Nov.

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Belgium's Option OPIN.BR said on  Wednesday it would launch a new wireless data card targeted at  the U.S. market in November.


Disney to name CEO by June

Disney Chairman George Mitchell on Tuesday called Chief Operating Officer Robert A. Iger the only internal candidate to replace Michael D. Eisner as chief executive officer but


Verizon opts out of mobile directory

Verizon Wireless, the nation #39;s largest wireless carrier, will not participate in a national 411 wireless phone database, chief executive Dennis Strigl told a US Senate committee on Tuesday.


Security Fears Still Blocking WLAN Adoption

Despite the best efforts of the Wi-Fi industry to assure companies wireless networking is safe in the workplace, a new survey of executives finds security remains the leading barrier to WLAN adoption.


Gizmondo to use NVIDIA GoForce 3D 4500 GPU

We have been following the announcements surrounding Tiger Telematic #39;s upcoming Gizmondo for awhile now (for example here and here), but I never realized that NVIDIA would be powering it.


Bosox claw back

BOSTON - Mark Bellhorn singled in two runs in the bottom of the ninth as the Red Sox rallied to a 3-2 victory over the Orioles last night, snapping a three-game losing streak after nearly blowing the game in the top of the inning.


UN Faces New Challenges to Peace

Leaders from the United Nations #39; 191 member states gathered in New York for the beginning of the annual General Debate. Secretary-General Kofi Annan opened the assembly by depicting a bleak world.


Australia Labour #39;s lead erodes

an October 9 election, according to a poll trend, as terror fears overshadow a closely fought campaign. repeatedly over the US-led war on Iraq.


Fed lifts rate, says economy picking up

The Federal Reserve yesterday boosted its key interest rate for the third time in as many months, signaling the economy has rebounded from its recent struggles and inflation remains in check.


Nintendo DS will be on shelves in time for Christmas season

Nintendo said yesterday its new flashy handheld game player, the Nintendo DS, will be ready for the all-important holiday shopping season.


Report: Prosecutors, CA Reach Accord

The US Justice Department has agreed to defer prosecution of Computer Associates International Inc. (CA.N: Quote, Profile, Research) in its long-running investigation of accounting fraud


ADB lifts China 2004 GDP growth forecast to 8.8

THE ASIAN Development Bank (ADB) said it has raised its GDP growth forecast for China to 8.8 percent from 8.3 percent, but slightly scaled down next year #39;s projection for the world #39;s fastest-growing economy to 8.0 percent from 8.2 percent.


Sun: We #39;ve turned over a new leaf

Sun Microsystems #39; executives have rarely been known for meekness, but the company #39;s new chief operating officer took a tone of humility while arguing that the company has mended its ways.


How to get the most out of Microsoft #39;s SP2

Any release from Microsoft brings a lot of questions. But since Windows XP Service Pack 2 came out in August, it has been particularly active.


Blocking JPEGs No Defense Against Windows Vulnerability

One of the standard security tactics enterprises apply won #39;t work when defending PCs against threats posed by the image processing flaw found last week in Windows and numerous applications, security experts said Tuesday.


Ireland blocks calls to rub out Internet scam

Dublin - Ireland will block direct dial telephone calls to 13 countries, most of them South Pacific islands, in an effort to crack down on growing Internet scams, the country #39;s communications regulator said on Tuesday.


Red Sox crack down on scalping

Attention Red Sox season ticket holders: Those precious postseason tickets could be at risk -- and it has nothing to do with the current state of Tim Wakefield #39;s knuckleball.


Ichiro notches 5 more hits

ANAHEIM - Ichiro went 5-for-5 to break his own rookie mark with his 243rd hit this season as the Mariners overpowered the Angels 7-3 on Tuesday.


Man United midfielder Roy Keane charged with assault

Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane was on Wednesday charged with assault and criminal damage over an alleged confrontation with a 16-year-old boy, police said.


AS Roma feels sting of UEFA sanctions, including a forfeit loss

UEFA imposes sanctions against AS Roma: Dynamo Kiev was given a 3-0 forfeit victory over AS Roma yesterday by Europe #39;s governing body for the sport.


Phillies #39; Florida futility is finally over

After losing 14 straight in Miami, the Phils, led by Cory Lidle #39;s stellar pitching, triumphed over the Marlins. By Todd Zolecki.


Giants gain on Dodgers

SAN FRANCISCO - Barry Bonds praised his teammates for their clutch play while he has been busy walking all season, then watched them go out and do most of the work Tuesday night.


Bush defiant at UN

President George W. Bush told skeptical foreign leaders and envoys Tuesday that Iraq was on its way to stability and democracy and called for  quot;a new definition of security


Hostage drama: Demand met

Baghdad - Iraqi authorities together with United States forces have decided to free one of only two high-profile women prisoners currently in American custody, a ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.


Haiti swamped by tropical storm

In this nation beset by violence, disease and environmental devastation, weary relief workers struggled yesterday to gauge the magnitude of the latest disaster


UK rejects UN sanctions on Sudan

Imposing UN sanctions against Sudan to force the government to protect the endangered civilians of the war torn Darfur region could backfire with the government withdrawing its cooperation, a British minister said on Monday.


Masai, Whites and Wildlife: No Peaceable Kingdom

Masai herders in Kenya have begun cutting fences and marching their livestock onto the private ranchland of white settlers, where wildlife thrives.


CL Preview: Arsenal-Rosenborg

With a league game against Chelsea on the horizon, Arsenal begin a tough couple of weeks with a vitally important clash against Rosenborg on Tuesday night.


US House cracks down on Internet-age peeping Toms (AFP)

AFP - The House of Representatives, worried by abuse of Internet-age technology, has moved to crack down on video voyeurism by adopting a bill that makes secret production and distribution of pictures of people caught in their  quot;private moments quot; punishable by fines and up to a year in jail.


AOL To Offer RSA Security's Password Protection (TechWeb)

TechWeb - As password breaking mischief by hackers, phishers, and spoofers continues to grow in the consumer-PC space, AOL, this week, will offer RSA Security Inc.'s purportedly ironclad password-security service to its 23 million customers.


Settlement May Be Near In Code-Theft Dispute (TechWeb)

TechWeb - A mediator in the Mambo-Furthermore open-source fracas said Tuesay he is  quot;cautiously optimistic quot; that the two sides can reach a settlement.


The 'W' he gets for this is: Wow

Curt Schilling lives for this stuff. He was deprived of a win by a bookkeeping necessity. But anyone who witnessed the 3-2 Red Sox triumph knows how superb the big righthander was in this extremely important game, and who was the true  quot;winning quot; pitcher in this sensational contest. Losers of three straight, playing a team that has mystified them this ...


A position of strength

Who knows? Maybe a year from now when Ty Law is playing cornerback for the New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, or Dallas Cowboys, Eugene Wilson will slip into the starting spot the Patriots had in mind for him all along. But for now, Wilson is content to be part of a defense that has six former No. 1 ...


Garciaparra on mend, expected to return tonight

Chicago Cubs shortstop Nomar Garciaparra expects to return to the lineup tonight after being out since Sept. 11 with a strained groin. Manager Dusty Baker said the plan is to play Garciaparra tonight, rest him for tomorrow's afternoon game, and then start him again Friday in New York.  quot;Hopefully, knock on wood, he can play every game after that, quot; Baker ...


NL notables

Dodger Adrian Beltre is the third third baseman to hit at least 47 homers. Mike Schmidt hit 48 in 1980, and Eddie Mathews had 47 in 1953.


Giambi, Yankees prevail

Jason Giambi homered to end the longest slump of his career and Esteban Loaiza finally earned his 100th career victory and first for the Yankees, leading host New York over the Toronto Blue Jays, 5-3, last night.


Kim rejoins team; role uncertain

He's been pretty much a forgotten man this season. He was sent to the minors, then went home to Korea, with some wondering whether he'd ever come back and others not caring a hoot if he did.


Old teammate is a backer

Drew Bledsoe's play may have fallen off since his New England days, but he will always get a mulligan with friends like Patriots linebacker Ted Johnson .


Denver's Pryce out 4-6 weeks

Trevor Pryce came into training camp in the best shape of his life. It didn't do him much good.


Stepping right into it

Ryan Ohliger could be forgiven if he erred on the side of caution during Boston College kickoffs. The freshman took over the placekicking duties after Mike Fassel injured a hamstring during the offseason. But instead of shying away from collisions, Ohliger has made two tackles in three games.


Brown playing backup

When Brown opens its Ivy League season Saturday against visiting Harvard, there will be more on the minds of the players and coaching staff than avenging last year's 52-14 loss to the Crimson or trying to end Harvard's four-game winning streak against the Bears.


In old North End, new plans

A Boston developer will break ground today on a North End condominium complex he is marketing as one of the first new residential construction projects in the historic neighborhood in more than a century.


Time to play ball?

Are the stars aligning for a grand deal in Kenmore Square? The Boston Red Sox, having sold out every ticket in lovely Fenway Park this season, will soon formally ask the city to approve expanding the occupancy of baseball's smallest park by about 3,500. While John Henry  amp; Co. have been magnificent stewards of a Boston treasure, such an increase ...


Contract flap cuts off Delta food service

Delta Air Lines passengers are facing long, hungry hours in the skies after the airline's main food vendor cut off service yesterday because of a contract dispute.


Mass. colleges awarded grant for nanotech

The state's bid for leadership in the emerging field of nanotechnology got a boost yesterday when the National Science Foundation awarded a \$12.4 million five-year grant to a consortium, led by Northeastern University, to create an engineering center to develop tools and processes for building nanoscale devices.


AIG says lawsuit pondered by SEC Accounting ploy at PNC is alleged

American International Group Inc. , the world's largest insurer, said the Securities and Exchange Commission is considering accusing the company of helping PNC Financial Services Group Inc. improperly remove bad loans from its books.


Home building surges

Housing construction in August jumped to its highest level in five months, a dose of encouraging news for the economy's expansion.


Verizon launches 'Iobi' service

Verizon Communications Inc. yesterday launched a new \$7.95-a-month messaging and call-forwarding service that lets people get many of the benefits of advanced Internet phone systems, even if they have only conventional telephone lines and dial-up Net access -- or no computer at all.


Supply worries lift oil prices

Oil prices hit a one-month high of \$47 a barrel yesterday as traders worried that US petroleum inventories had drawn down heavily due to Hurricane Ivan.


Judge grants Stewart's request to start serving term, urges Conn. or Fla. sites

Martha Stewart must report to prison in less than three weeks, a federal judge ruled yesterday in granting the celebrity homemaker's request to begin serving her sentence for lying about a stock sale. Her company's stock surged 12 percent.


Nintendo, Sony try to kindle demand ahead of holidays

Nintendo Co. and Sony Corp. made separate product unveilings yesterday that the video game giants hope will attract more customers ahead of the highly competitive holiday shopping season.


Two MFS funds to be terminated

The board overseeing MFS Institutional Emerging Equities Fund and MFS Institutional Mid Cap Growth Fund has voted to terminate the funds about Oct. 28, according to a Securities and Exchange Commission filing. It did not say why. Mid Cap Growth had about \$17.8 million in net assets June 30; Emerging Equities had \$56 million. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. is the ...


6 ex-officials face fraud charges in 1st criminal trial over Enron

The first criminal trial involving former Enron Corp. executives opened yesterday with prosecutors charging that the defendants conspired with Wall Street bankers to carry out a sham transaction.


FDA's home county eyes Canadian drugs

The county that is home to the Food and Drug Administration took a first step yesterday toward buying prescription drugs from Canada, despite FDA warnings that such a practice would be illegal.


PeopleSoft sets initiatives despite Oracle bid

PeopleSoft Inc. will push ahead with a marketing alliance and other initiatives in the face of a court ruling that raises the chance that Oracle Corp.'s \$7.7 billion hostile takeover bid could succeed, PeopleSoft's chief executive said yesterday.


Theme park meets office

Forget foosball. Just like the 40 designers and engineers at IDEO, the firm has to work. The black foam cubes hanging from the ceiling are playful, but they also muffle sound. Spandex eye screens, looking like kites floating above individual work spaces, shield works-in-progress from passersby. Lumasite panels set on wheels, not quite transparent, provide privacy when needed -- then ...


Militants say 2d US hostage killed

BAGHDAD -- An Iraqi extremist group linked to Al Qaeda said yesterday that it had killed a second American hostage, a day after a video recording showed the insurgents beheading another American captive. The group announced the slaying on an Islamist website in a statement laced with threats against the US presence in Iraq.


At UN, Bush defends war

UNITED NATIONS -- President Bush stood before an annual gathering of world leaders yesterday and forcefully defended his decision to invade Iraq, urging all nations to join the United States in rooting out terrorism and establishing democracy in place of oppressive regimes.


At UN, Bush still finds his Iraq plan hard to sell

UNITED NATIONS -- Despite an appearance at the United Nations that was friendlier and more optimistic than any of his previous speeches to the world body, President Bush still faces a skeptical crowd at the UN.


Studies: Walking May Ward Off Alzheimer's

CHICAGO - The health benefits of regular walking may include helping prevent mental decline and Alzheimer's disease, research in patients aged 70 and up has found, bolstering evidence that exercise needn't be strenuous to be good for you.    There's plenty of evidence that mental exercise, such as crossword puzzles and reading, may reduce Alzheimer's risks, but previous studies on brain benefits from physical exercise had conflicting results...


Tobacco Industry Defends Itself From Feds

WASHINGTON - Tobacco industry lawyers say the government won't be able to prove cigarette makers schemed for decades to deceive the public about smoking hazards and that the industry intends to keep up such bad behavior.    Industry lawyers plan to offer opening arguments in the \$280 billion civil racketeering case against them Wednesday...


Philly Plans to Become One Big Hot Spot

City will build the world's largest mesh Wi-Fi network to spread Internet access.


Holiday sales: Jolly, not jubilant

NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - It hasn #39;t exactly been a summer of fun for retailers this year -- but at least merchants can look forward to a little holiday cheer, an industry group said Wednesday.


ADB sees stronger growth in Asia

Asian economies are heading for robust economic growth in 2004, followed by a slight slowdown in 2005, the Asian Development Bank has said.


Home building surges

Housing construction in August jumped to its highest level in five months, a dose of encouraging news for the economy #39;s expansion.


Cami to get \$100M boost

Cami Automotive in Ingersoll will spend \$100 million next year to add production capacity, the first step in what workers hope will be an expansion of jobs.


AT amp;T forms Net phone alliance

com September 21, 2004, 3:39 PM PT. There #39;s no doubt the Internet will continue to make its mark in the world of business and technology.


Upcoming Golf

Last year: JL Lewis closed with a course-record 62 for a two-stroke victory over Frank Lickliter, Stuart Appleby and Tim Petrovic.


Ichiro leads swingin #39; singles in M #39;s 7-3 win over Angels

ANAHEIM, Calif. - A fellow who identified himself as Rick Sisler and claimed to be George Sisler #39;s grandson called the Mariners and said he would attend the game last night.


No retreat on Iraq, Bush vows

UNITED NATIONSThe United States will stick to its guns in Iraq, despite increasing violence, US President George W. Bush vowed yesterday.


Tehran preparing uranium for enrichment

Openly defying the United Nations nuclear watchdog, Iran announced yesterday that it has begun converting large quantities of raw uranium


Jeanne #39;s floods kill 691 in Haiti

Blood swirled in knee-deep flood waters as workers stacked bodies outside the hospital morgue yesterday. Carcasses of pigs, goats, and


No LoC talks with Manmohan: Musharraf

NEW YORK: Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf has ruled out any talks regarding the re-adjustment of the Line of Control in Kashmir.


Brits against warned against  #39;iTrip #39;

British authorities are warning fans of the Apple iPod music player using a companion device called the iTrip is illegal. Made by Griffin Technology and available on eBay for less than \$40, it lets users play


Giants Beat Astros, Boost Playoff Hopes (AP)

AP - Barry Bonds and the San Francisco Giants can reach the playoffs two ways. They certainly boosted both chances Tuesday night. Brett Tomko won his sixth consecutive decision and San Francisco beat the visiting Houston Astros 9-2 to maintain their wild-card lead and move within 1 1/2 games of first-place Los Angeles in the NL West.


IT firm blazes trail in revolt-hit Indian Kashmir (AFP)

AFP - A Kashmiri company with the motto  quot;Dare to Dream quot; is seeking to tap into India's outsourcing boom and give work to jobless youth in the region, scene of one of the world's deadliest revolts.


Terror mastermind obtained visa to visit Australia, government admits (AFP)

AFP - Terror mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed used one of his many aliases to obtain a tourist visa to visit Australia a month before the September 11 attacks in the United States which he plotted, the government said.


Sweeping View of Saturn #39;s Rings

Summary - (Dec 6, 2004) This sweeping view of Saturn #39;s rings shows the incredible detail and grandeur of the system, from the outer F ring to the inner C ring.


Nikkei Hits One-Month Closing Low

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei average fell on Wednesday  for a fifth straight day, hitting a one-month closing low as  key exporters and techs such as Kyocera Corp. fell on renewed  caution about the country's economic outlook.


AMD Opteron Chills Out with Power Management

PowerNow has been included in all Opteron chips that have been on the market since mid May, but the feature cannot be used until instructions are built into the operating system.


Judge Strikes Down Campaign Finance Rules

U.S. District Judge Kollar-Kotelly, the same judge who threw out the Microsoft break-up ruling, and backed the feds in the Gitmo case, issued a 157-page ruling today which rejects 15 of the 19 federal rules implementing the two year old US campaign finance law. While the ruling does not affect the law's key prohibition against large donations to political parties (known as "soft money") it does seem to create some uncertainty for political fund-raising, with only six weeks to go until the elections.


A Cautious Reformer as Indonesia's Next President

Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is considered a steady, broadly educated man who supports the secular tradition of Indonesia.


Infineon Executives Pay High Price

One would think being part of a cartel that controls 75 of the dynamic random access memory market would be enough clout to help turn a profit.


Oil prices continue to rise

WASHINGTON -- Oil prices bounded higher for the fourth day in a row yesterday, with further declines in US supply expected as petroleum producers disrupted by hurricane Ivan continue to regroup.


Nintendo, Sony devices to target holiday shoppers

NEW YORK -- Nintendo Co. and Sony Corp. made separate product announcements yesterday that the video game giants hope will attract more customers ahead of the highly competitive holiday shopping season.