U.S. Officials Point to Promise Of Session on Arab Democracy

The Bush administration, responding to negative reviews of an international conference on Middle East democracy last week in Morocco, said that the event provided a platform for human rights and other nongovernmental groups in the Arab world.


China Planning to Enact Law Against Secession

Analysts say the move could legally bind the Communist Party leadership to follow through on its long-standing threat to attack Taiwan if the island formally declares independence.


The chatty skies

THE WORLD does not need cellphones in the sky. They #39;re causing enough trouble on the ground. Here #39;s hoping the Federal Communications Commission gets a load of mail nixing its proposal to lift the current


Questions and Praise for Google Web Library

When Randall C. Jimerson, the president of the Society of American Archivists, heard of Google #39;s plan to convert certain holdings at Oxford University and at some of the leading research


The Fox Is in Microsoft #39;s Henhouse (and Salivating)

Published by the Mozilla Foundation, a nonprofit group supporting open-source software that draws upon the skills of hundreds of volunteer programmers, Firefox is a Web browser that is fast


Dravid falls for 160; India 413/7

Chittagong, Dec. 18. Rahul Dravid fell for 160 while Sachin Tendulkar exited after making 36 runs on the second day of the second and final test between India and Bangladesh here today.


Pfizer: Celebrex heightens heart risk

PHILADELPHIA - Pfizer Inc. said Friday that its popular pain-reliever Celebrex may double the risk of heart attack at high doses, triggering a torrent of new warnings about an entire class of drugs used by millions.


Iressa more trouble for AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca PLC #39;s shares plunged 7.7 percent Friday after a study found that its new lung-cancer drug Iressa failed to improve survival rates among patients.


The Glitch  That Stole Holiday Buys (washingtonpost.com)

washingtonpost.com - Agonizingly slow Web sites. Maddening error messages. And, most frustrating of all, unavailable home pages.


Recording Industry Files Another 754 Copyright Lawsuits

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has announced that its member companies filed a new wave of copyright infringement lawsuits against 754 individual file-sharers.


Venezuela Revels in Fireworks Celebrations (AP)

AP - Whistling rockets streak through the sky each night, and firecrackers still echo through the streets in Venezuela this holiday season despite a long-standing ban and a new effort by authorities to crack down on the tradition.


Wizards Whip Lakers 120-116 in OT (AP)

AP - Gilbert Arenas scored 37 points, Larry Hughes had 31, and the Washington Wizards beat the Los Angeles Lakers 120-116 in overtime Friday night.


Mets set sights (quietly) on Beltran

The Mets stayed well under the radar for a good while with their stealth pursuit of Pedro Martinez, and it looks like they will try to take that approach again.


Nets: A STAR RISES, FADES IN CANADA

Vince Carter had everything a basketball player could want: A fat contract, highlight-reel talent and an entire nation that had anointed him as its favorite athlete not on ice skates.


Steelers #39; defense has rookie quarterback Eli Manning in its sights

So if the back-up nose tackle of the Steelers (12-1) gets a sack in the 1:30 pm game, you know it #39;s going to be another long day for Manning and the Giants (5-8).


U.S. Warns of Attacks in Indonesia (AP)

AP - The State Department on Saturday warned that terrorists were planning more attacks against Western targets in Indonesia over Christmas and New Years, reiterating advice to its citizens not to travel to the country.


Police Arrest Rio De Janeiro Drug Lord

Police said Saturday they have arrested one of Rio de Janeiro's most-wanted drug lords.


Rafique and Mortaza restrict India in second Bangladesh Test (AFP)

AFP - Mohammad Rafique and Mashrafe Mortaza shared five wickets as Bangladesh restricted India to 413-7 at lunch on the second day of the second and final Test here.


Pfizer leaves the arthritis drug on the market despite problems <b>...</b>

The nation #39;s top arthritis painkiller, Celebrex, raises the risk of major heart problems when taken at high doses, the drug #39;s maker said Friday.


Yukos auction is on despite order by Houston judge

Workers in Moscow, self-exiled executives in London and Houston and industry watchers the world over are waiting for the death knell for Russia #39;s second largest oil company.


Rivals hope for the worst

Looking for a cloud in Symantec #39;s latest silver lining, competitors are hoping the company #39;s acquisition of storage software maker Veritas will be a stumbling block for the security firm.


Sprint-Nextel merger widens gap to mobile #39;s  #39;have nots #39;

Now that wireless is officially a land of giants, what happens to all the Lilliputians? With Sprint and Nextel announcing their merger Wednesday - \$35 billion deal


United pilots set to vote on pay cut

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Pilot leaders at United Airlines unanimously endorsed a tentative agreement that will cut pay by 15 percent, opting to accept management #39;s demands rather than risk the chance of losing more in federal bankruptcy court.


MLB Notebook: Johnson trade still in the works

The New York Yankees, Arizona and Los Angeles spent yesterday trying to put the finishing touches on the megadeal that would move All-Stars Randy Johnson, Shawn Green and Javier Vazquez.


A Test for Ravens #39; Offense

On Sunday night, all eyes will be on Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning #39;s pursuit of Dan Marino #39;s single-season touchdown record and the Baltimore


EU, Turkey reach  quot;historic quot; agreement on entry talks

The European Union (EU) and Turkeyreached an agreement on Friday to start talks next year on the country #39;s membership of the bloc.


Gunmen Demand Peru President's Resignation

President Alejandro Toledo declared a state of emergency in a remote highland province late Saturday after gunmen demanding his resignation seized control of a police station there and took several officers hostage, authorities said.


Troops Oust Haiti Rebels From Ex-Leader #39;s Villa

United Nations peacekeepers on Friday stormed the home of the former president, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, to evict rebel former soldiers who seized the compound two days ago.


Group ratifies next-generation EPC specs

The global standard will drive commercialization of RFID and EPC worldwide, according to EPCglobal.


Clinical trial links Celebrex to heart risk

In an announcement that many doctors were waiting for, Pfizer Inc. said its top-selling painkiller Celebrex -- which is similar to Vioxx -- caused an increased risk of heart attacks when used in high doses during a clinical trial.


Russia rejects US order barring Yukos auction

MOSCOW - Russia is vowing to proceed with an auction of oil giant Yukos #39; key production subsidiary, saying a US court ban is irrelevant.


United Starts Financing Search

United Airlines has begun approaching potential lenders with its revamped business plan for financing to leave bankruptcy, the company said on Friday.


Hope Fades on Identifying Missing Foreigners

With thousands of decomposing bodies piled up in a temporary morgue on Thailand's southern coast, hope was fading Saturday that any of more than 6,000 foreigners still missing would be found alive.


The Talk Shows

Guests to be interviewed today on major television talk shows:


Yes, Options Really Are an Expense

One of my favorite pastimes as the final ruling on expensing stock options came upon us has been to read the increasingly hysterical opinion pages of the San Jose Mercury News, the newspaper of record for Silicon Valley.


Firm looks to acquire Jersey #39;s top utility

Public Service Enterprise Group, a heavyweight in setting public policy and promoting economic development in the state, is in talks to be acquired by a giant Chicago gas and electric company


Engineer #39;s thoughts drift toward Saturnian moon

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


Quarter of world #39;s bird species face extinction threat

A tenth of the world #39;s bird species are likely to have vanished by the year 2100, with another 15 on the brink of extinction, a group of scientists have warned.


Asian Stocks Had Biggest Weekly Gain in 7 Months; Sony Rises

Asian stocks had the biggest gain in seven months on optimism the US economy is growing after the Federal Reserve raised interest rates and a government report showed an unexpected increase in retail sales last month.


FOOTBALL: MOURINHO: BEAT BARCA? NOU PROBLEM

JOSE MOURINHO last night promised Barcelona that as far as football is concerned, his side can prove that size doesn #39;t matter.


Red Sox miffed by parting shots

Feeling he had been a good teammate and friend to Pedro Martinez and had gladly accepted being the No. 2 pitcher behind him, Curt Schilling expressed surprise


Tinsley #39;s big 2nd half lifts Pacers to win

INDIANAPOLIS  Jamaal Tinsley scored 17 of his 22 points in the second half to lead the Pacers to an 89-86 victory over the Raptors, who traded All-Star Vince Carter to New Jersey earlier Friday.


Miller fourth in Italian super-G race

VAL GARDENA, Italy - Bode Miller finished fourth Friday in a super-G while Michael Walchhofer led Austrians into the top-three places.


Roethlisberger-Manning matchup calls for measuring stick

Eli Manning, the No. 1 pick of the New York Giants (and vice versa), is struggling in his role as the starter. Ben Roethlisberger, the 11th overall pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers, has won a rookie-record 11 straight starts.


Void is filled with Clement

With the supply of attractive pitching options dwindling daily -- they lost Pedro Martinez to the Mets, missed on Tim Hudson, and are resigned to Randy Johnson


Insider Preview - Sonics vs. Suns

On Dec. 23, the Phoenix Suns and new Coach Mike D #39;Antoni traveled north to Seattle to take on the SuperSonics. The Suns were barely in a 116-90 loss, dropping to 10-19 on the season, an incredible disappointment


Saban, Dolphins wait out NFL process

BATON ROUGE - The Miami Dolphins may be saying their pursuit of LSU coach Nick Saban is on hold for the time being, but LSU #39;s search party is not sitting on its hands waiting for the signal to look for a new coach.


Zito, Mulder may be on trading block too

A #39;s general manager Billy Beane might not stop with his trade of ace right-hander Tim Hudson. Beane figures to make at least one more significant deal this off-season, and one of his two prized left-handers


Palestinian death toll rises to nine in Israeli raid in Gaza

GAZA CITY - The Palestinian death toll during an Israeli army incursion in Khan Yunis refugee camp in the southern Gaza Strip has risen to nine, Palestinian medical sources said.


Scientists pinpoint Yushchenko poison

Ukrainian presidential candidate Viktor Yushchenko was poisoned with TCDD, the most harmful known dioxin and one contained in Agent Orange, a scientist who analyzed his blood said yesterday.


Thai PM vows to step up arrests of separatists as rescue worker <b>...</b>

BANGKOK: Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra vowed to continue arresting ringleaders of separatist attacks as a volunteer rescue worker became the latest victim of violence that has claimed more than 560 lives this year.


Chiofaro to keep stake in towers

Developer Donald J. Chiofaro will hang onto partial ownership of the two International Place office towers under an agreement reached yesterday in his high-profile bankruptcy case.


Job figures disappoint in Mass.

The Massachusetts economic recovery remained stagnant last month as the unemployment rate dipped slightly, but employers sliced payrolls for the third time in four months, the state reported yesterday.


EUROPE MARKETS

LONDON (CBS.MW) -- European stocks were mixed Friday, with Paris-listed stocks failing to shine but German stocks were boosted after business sentiment increased during November.


American Express to eliminate 2,500 jobs in restructuring

New York (Dow Jones) -- American Express Co. said Friday it will cut 2,000 jobs, or 2.5 percent of its work force, in a restructuring designed to save more than \$75 million a year before taxes.


FCC May Allow Cell-Phone Use on Airplanes

The Federal Communications Commission has voted to consider eliminating its ban on the use of cell phones on airplanes. The agency instituted the ban because of potential interference with ground-based cell systems.


Offering could bring in \$850 million; Wasserstein prevails

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Lazard, the last major privately held European investment bank, filed late Friday with US regulators to raise up to \$850 million in an initial public offering, apparently a victory for dealmaker Bruce Wasserstein.


New IE Exploit Spoofs Web Sites

Security researchers have uncovered a spoofing flaw in Internet Explorer that could turn out to be the perfect holiday gift for scammers.


Robinhos mother released unharmed

SAO PAULO: The mother of Santos striker Robinho was released unharmed yesterday, 40 days after she was kidnapped at a family gathering.


Green has reasons to move

Shawn Green would consider leaving Los Angeles for Arizona, which means a proposed three-team trade sending Randy Johnson to the New York Yankees is very much alive.


Indian army chief to visit China from December 22 in first trip for decade (AFP)

AFP - India's army chief General Nirmal Chandra Vij will pay a week-long visit to China this month in the first such visit for a decade, reports said.


US Not Aiming to Topple N.Korean Regime-Report

TOKYO (Reuters) - The United States has decided to aim for  a gradual transformation in North Korea rather than seek to  topple North Korean leader Kim Jong-il's regime, a Japanese  newspaper said Saturday.


'Artificial life' comes step closer

Researchers at Rockefeller University make small synthetic vesicles that resemble a crude kind of biological cell.


Afghan troops storm Kabul jail; eight killed

KABUL -- Afghan troops stormed a notorious prison in a hail of gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades yesterday, ending a 10-hour standoff that began when four inmates once suspected of belonging to Al Qaeda tried to escape. Four inmates and four guards were killed in the day's violence.


Deadly ambush on a street in Mosul

BAGHDAD -- Insurgents killed four foreigners yesterday in Mosul, a northern city that became a stronghold after Fallujah fell to US and Iraqi forces. Militants also set ablaze a pipeline near the capital -- a rare attack on oil infrastructure in a populated area.


Name of hostage confirmed

BAGHDAD -- The US Embassy confirmed the name of an American kidnapped six weeks ago in a deadly attack in the Iraqi capital, and his family pleaded yesterday for his release.


US forgives \$4.1b Iraq debt

WASHINGTON -- The United States yesterday forgave \$4.1 billion Iraq owed it and urged other nations not part of an international debt relief agreement to follow suit.


Scientists pinpoint Yushchenko poison

LONDON -- Ukrainian presidential candidate Viktor Yushchenko was poisoned with TCDD, the most harmful known dioxin and one contained in Agent Orange, a scientist who analyzed his blood said yesterday.


Full Extent of Indonesia Disaster Slowly Revealed

BANDA ACEH, Indonesia (Reuters) - Desperate survivors  huddle in clearings without food or shelter above the water  line all along the tsunami-ravaged coast of Indonesia's Aceh  province, and corpses float as far as 20 miles out to sea.


Future looks bleak for Yukos

HAMISH ROBERTSON: But first to Moscow where the future of Russia #39;s largest oil company, Yukos, isn #39;t looking too bright this weekend.


Raptors Send Carter to Nets for 3 Players (AP)

AP - After dismantling the team in the summer and aggravating Jason Kidd, the New Jersey Nets began the job of rebuilding as well as repairing their relationship with their best player.


Stock Mutual Funds Perform Well in 2004 (AP)

AP - Wall Street's fourth-quarter rally gave stock mutual funds a solid performance for 2004, with small-cap equity funds and real estate funds scoring some of the biggest returns. Large-cap growth equities and technology-focused funds had the slimmest gains.


Governor Wants Fines for Selling Violent Games to Kids

Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich wants tougher penalties aimed at keeping violent and sexually explicit video games out of the hands of kids.


Soaring toward extinction

The next century definitely will not be for the birds as the changing world takes a toll on many species. By 2100, about 10 percent of all bird species probably will be extinct, killed off by habitat loss, hunting


Saban to Have Competition in Coach Search (AP)

AP - The Miami Dolphins' coaching search will include more than one candidate, even though LSU's Nick Saban remains the front-runner.


Red Sox introduce Renteria to Boston

BOSTON -- A year ago, the anticipated press conference to herald the arrival of Nomar Garciaparras replacement at shortstop never happened.


Rafique and Mortaza strike, but India pass 400

Mohammad Rafique and Mashrafe Mortaza shared five wickets as India reached 7 for 413 at lunch on day two of the second and final Test in Chittagong.


Jones Is a Tough Test for Eagles (AP)

AP - The Philadelphia Eagles were 28 points better than Dallas last month. Julius Jones could change that for the Cowboys this time around.


Europe and US reach Kyoto compromise

Europe and the United States reached an 11th-hour compromise late last night at the UN climate change conference in Buenos Aires. The two sides were locked in disagreement on future efforts to reduce harmful


Israeli Military Escalation Undermines Palestinian Elections IOF <b>...</b>

In an ongoing invasion of the southern Gaza Strip refugee camp of Khan Yunis, Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) tanks and warplanes have killed 9 Palestinians, wounded 22 others, demolished at least 38 Palestinian houses and forced hundreds of families


Wake Forest Hopes to Bounce Back (AP)

AP - Like most of his peers, Wake Forest coach Skip Prosser wants more than victories from his early schedule.


Red Sox miffed by parting shots

Feeling he had been a good teammate and friend to Pedro Martinez and had gladly accepted being the No. 2 pitcher behind him, Curt Schilling expressed surprise and disappointment yesterday over Martinez's parting shots at him, general manager Theo Epstein, and manager Terry Francona.


Jazzy win for Celtics

Doc Rivers does not ordinarily spend the fourth quarter sitting on the bench. The Celtics coach prefers to pace the sideline shouting instructions, offering encouragement, and challenging referees. But last night's game against Utah offered Rivers a considerable amount of down time, particularly in the second half. He spent much of the fourth in his seat, learning back and shaking ...


Poole is out for the year

The Patriots seemed to have reason for optimism following Tyrone Poole's return to action last Sunday and the upgrading of Ty Law to doubtful for the team's visit to Miami Monday. But the situation changed yesterday. Poole was placed on the injured reserve list and is out for the season, according to Patriots spokesman Stacey James.


Presidents look to rule

Bob Fisher, the legendary coach who guided Rockland for more than 30 years and won a state title last season, left the Bulldogs and appeared to ride off into the sunset.


Tigers' Gurley elevates his game

Elevation. Everyone's familiar with it, but only a rare breed can attain it. It's the intangible that allows a player to make his teammates play beyond their natural abilities.


Antonio Tarver-Glen Johnson; Round By Round Coverage

Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson are set to meet in order to prove who is the best light heavyweight in the world. Both fighters are coming off the biggest wins of their careers against the same man.


Taiwan Says China Forming Legal Basis to Attack

Taiwan condemned China #39;s plan to draft an anti-secession law, describing it Saturday as a move to establish a legal basis to attack the self-ruling, democratic island that Beijing claims as a province.


iRiver H10

Finally, the wait is over. After a long wait, iRiver has finally decided to challenge the might of Creative and Apple in the 5 GB portable music player department.


Red Sox reel in Cubs #39; Clement

It was a busy day for Red Sox brass, who also introduced new shortstop Edgar Renteria. By GARRY BROWN. Free agent pitcher Matt Clement apparently will be coming to the Boston Red Sox to plug the last open spot in their starting rotation.


Post-Kyoto climate talks end on a low

UN talks on climate change have ended with few steps forward after the United States, oil producers and developing giants slammed the brakes on the European


Afghan Jailbreak Inmate to Be Questioned

An inmate injured in a deadly Afghan prison shootout will be questioned to determine if he and four comrades, all once suspected of belonging to al-Qaida, were trying to escape or were attempting to attack three American prisoners, the jail warden said


Chinese secession law may seek legal basis for use of force <b>...</b>

BEIJING, (AFP) - A secession law being drafted by China could provide the legal basis for using force against Taiwan, but it is unlikely to include a clear deadline for when reunification must take place, analysts said.


Talks End With No U.S. Climate Deal

A U.N. conference ended early Saturday with a vague plan for informal new talks on how to slow global warming but without a U.S. commitment to multilateral negotiations on next steps, including emissions controls.


German Business Sentiment Rises in Dec.

BERLIN - German business sentiment improved unexpectedly in December after slumping sharply in November over concerns about high oil prices and worries that the strengthening euro could damage exports, a closely watched survey showed Friday.


GE's Transformation Seen Paying Off in 05 (Reuters)

Reuters - After three years of playing down\expectations, General Electric Chief Executive Jeff Immelt has\delivered on the most important promise of his tenure by\telling analysts and investors exactly what they wanted to\hear: GE is back.


Texas' Johnson, Benson Go Out With Win (AP)

AP - Their final games will be remembered for the plays others made. Still, Texas tailback Cedric Benson and linebacker Derrick Johnson went out the way they wanted to: with a Rose Bowl win.


Wenger Ready To Prove Doubters Wrong

Arsene Wenger has hit back at critics who claim that Arsenal cannot perform against Europe #39; big guns after being drawn against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.


Surprise! Ratner #39;s team can play to win

It remains to be seen whether the Nets are as good with Vince Carter as they once were with Kenyon Martin, but at least they have made winning a priority again over in the Meadowlands.


Jones gets to give knockout analysis

It won #39;t be the easiest assignment that Roy Jones Jr. will have in his new job as an HBO Sports boxing analyst. But it will probably be one that Jones has the most intimate knowledge about.


Bryant stumbles as Lakers lose to Wizards

LOS ANGELES, (AFP) - Kobe Bryant committed a foot foul from the free throw line with 4.4 seconds left as the Washington Wizards snapped an 11 game road losing streak by beating Los Angeles Lakers 120-116.


Knicks deep-six Philly in OT

Allan Houston was stuck in a corner, surrounded by the opposition and working against the clock. And yet, at the game #39;s most frantic moment, there was something reassuring about


Ivory Coast overturns candidacy rule

Lawmakers approved amending Ivory Coast #39;s constitution Friday to widen the pool of potential presidential candidates, implementing a crucial reform from a French


Thunderbird well worth a test flight

Many people don #39;t pay all that much attention to their e-mail software. After all, it takes a real geek to care about the fine points of one program or another, especially when they all do more or less the same thing.


OSDL Looks Under the Sofa Cushions for Signs of Linux Growth

The Open Source Development Labs has gone into the soothsayer business and - based on research that it had IDC run up - says that the global Linux market will be worth \$35.7 billion in 2008.


Pride left after the fall

Burdened by six consecutive losses, Giants, Eli still can play for some respect vs. daunting Steelers. BY NEIL BEST. When athletes talk about playing for pride, it is a sure sign there is little else to play for in a season gone wrong.


Scant Progress on Post-Kyoto as Climate Talks End (Reuters)

Reuters - U.N. talks on climate\change ended early Saturday with few steps forward as the\United States, oil producers and developing giants slammed the\brakes on the European Union's drive for deeper emissions cuts\to stop global warming.


Anything But Microsoft Retail Store Pushes Linux, Open Source (TechWeb)

TechWeb - The Linux and open source software movement has an ambitious retail store, and it is offering a low-cost, lightweight laptop that is devoid of Microsoft software.


Microsoft Moves On Spyware To Stymie Firefox (TechWeb)

TechWeb - Microsoft bought anti-spyware technology to protect its Internet Explorer browser from surging rivals like Mozilla's Firefox


Probe ordered into apparent Afghan jailbreak attempt (AFP)

AFP - The Afghan government has ordered an inquiry into an apparent jailbreak attempt by suspected Al-Qaeda prisoners which left five guards and four inmates dead.


Trail Blazers Snap Warriors' Win Streak (AP)

AP - Shareef Abdur-Rahim had 26 points and nine rebounds to lead the Portland Trail Blazers to a 97-88 come-from-behind victory Saturday night over Golden State that snapped the Warriors' four-game winning streak.


Bunker down, Browser Wars #39; are back

For those who have been technology enthusiasts for years, there is a familiar war brewing in the technology industry. Mozilla, an open-source community of developers and testers that was started by Netscape


China plans to enact anti-secession law

China plans to enact an anti-secession law, the government said Friday, in a move apparently aimed at promoting Beijing #39;s campaign to pressure Taiwan into uniting with the mainland.


Indonesian extremists influence Thai Muslims, prime minister says <b>...</b>

Militants behind the ongoing violence in Thailand #39;s Muslim-majority far south have been indoctrinated by extremists in nearby Indonesia, Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra said Saturday.


Bosnian Serb prime minister resigns

The prime minister of the Bosnian Serb-run half of the country resigned Friday, a day after the US government and Bosnia #39;s top international administrator sanctioned


Future climate talks deal agreed

The EU and US reach a compromise after marathon talks over post-Kyoto steps to combat climate change.


#39;Go west, young men #39; bad idea for this bout

With tonight #39;s light heavyweight fight between Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson not bearing the championship sanction of any of boxing #39;s jurisdictions, think of it as the Roy Jones Jr.


Many Counties Failing Fine-Particle Air Rules

About a third of all Americans live in counties that do not meet standards for particles of pollution that cause thousands of premature deaths a year, the E.P.A. said.


Shuttle Loss Proved 'Cathartic,' Departing NASA Leader Says

The loss of the shuttle Columbia was a "cathartic moment" that led to reforming the space agency and pushed the nation to establish a broader space policy, Sean O'Keefe said.


Bush Forms Panel to Coordinate Ocean Policy

In response to a gloomy assessment of the state of the nation's coastal waters, President Bush ordered the creation of a new federal panel to coordinate oceanic policy.


American Express to cut 2,000 jobs in restructuring

American Express has said that it expects to record a pre-tax charge in the fourth quarter of 2004 of approximately \$100 million to \$120 million in connection with various restructuring activities that it is undertaking within certain business units and


Plans for air calls

Air passengers could soon be allowed to use their mobile phones during flights, Sky News reports. Planes are currently one of the few sanctuaries from the modern curse of the mobile ring tone, but America #39;s


Immediate upside for Yankees

If the Randy Johnson deal gets done, the Yankees will have the best rotation in the American League - if it gets done. The Yankees continued discussions yesterday with Arizona and Los Angeles


AUSSIE TRIO FRUSTRATE PAKISTAN

Australia piled on the runs today to set Pakistan an improbable 564 to win the first Test in Perth. The hosts lost Matthew Hayden early in the third day but Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting and Damien Martyn scored


India in Commanding Position

Bangladesh finally ended Indias first innings in the second Test in Chittagong today - but not before the tourists had amassed a commanding 540.


Postal worker jailed for stealing letters -- 133,000 of them (AFP)

AFP - If people in the sleepy northern English town of Kidsgrove ever wondered why their letters went missing, the jailing of postal worker Nicholas Fryer for stealing 133,000 items of mail might have provided an answer.


U.S. Military Wraps Up Philippines Relief (AP)

AP - The Philippines thanked the U.S. military on Saturday for its help after storms and typhoons left more than 1,000 people dead and at least 550 missing.


Canada court rules  #39;iPod levy #39; illegal

The Canadian Federal Court of Appeal has ruled that special levies applied to the sale of MP3 players, such as the iPod, are illegal.


ReignCom Challenges Apple #39;s iPod

ReignCom, parent company of portable music player maker iRiver, on Thursday unveiled the H10, a hard disc drive embedded multifunctional MP3 player, at the COEX InterContinental Hotel in southern Seoul.


Pfizer #39;s Celebrex, Increased Heart Risk Linked

A woman walks past the Pfizer headquarters in New York. The pharmaceutical giant warned of an increased risk of heart attack for its drug Celebrex.


Murdoch offers \$44 million for Manhattan penthouse

MUMBAI: Media moghul and billionaire chairman of News Corp Rupert Murdoch has, according to agency reports, offered to buy a penthouse in New York #39;s upscale Manhattan area for cool \$44 million.


Lazard files for \$850M IPO

Lazard Ltd., the international investment bank, late Friday, Dec. 17, filed an initial prospectus with the Securities and Exchange Commission for an \$850 million IPO.


#39;Googleizing #39; libraries won #39;t replace books

This week Google Inc. down in Mountain View, wading in dough from its stock offering, announced it would use some of the money to put millions of volumes from the country #39;s great libraries online where anybody can use them.


Naughty, nice are irrelevant if Santa can #39;t find any iPods

You could spend all weekend exploring retail stores in Wichita, and you still probably won #39;t find it. The Dora the Explorer talking dollhouse is sold out.


Robinhos Mom Comes Home Safe

The kidnapped mother of Santos starlet Robinho has been returned to her family in good health, allowing the teenage forward to breath a huge sigh of relief.


Toronto trades Carter

The Toronto Raptors traded six-time All-Star Vince Carter to the New Jersey Nets for three players, including center Alonzo Mourning, and two first-round draft picks.


DC works to find stadium financing

Advocates for preserving a major league baseball team in Washington, DC, said Friday that their strategy involves trying to convince DC Council chairwoman Linda W. Cropp that the city is committed to attracting private stadium financing on its own without


Eli Manning gets rude welcome

For one moment in his second game as a starting NFL quarterback for the New York Giants, Eli Manning met the expectations created by his last name and his position as the No.


3 Palestinians Said Killed in Gaza Raid

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip Dec 18, 2004 - Israeli troops killed three Palestinians Saturday on the second day of an Israeli raid in the Khan Younis refugee camp in southern Gaza, witnesses and hospital officials said.


Israeli Coalition Deal Expected as Troops Kill at Least 11 <b>...</b>

Israel #39;s ruling Likud bloc and the opposition Labor Party are set to meet Saturday on final details of a national unity government.


Storm Leaves Six Dead in France

Six people died, thousands of homes were blacked out and air traffic delayed as violent storms hit northern France. Tourist hotspots like the Eiffel Tower reopened today after yesterdays hurricane-force


ANTI-SECESSION LAW HIGHLIGHTS BEIJING #39;S SUPPRESSION OF TAIWAN: VP

Taipei, Dec. 18 (CNA) Mainland China #39;s plan to legislate a so-called anti-secession law will only help the international community to better understand Beijing #39;s ubiquitous suppression of Taiwan, Vice President Annette Lu said Saturday.


Asylum seekers in Japan embassy

Two men, four women and a child scaled a wall and barbed wire to get into the Japanese school at dawn on Friday. Asylum-seekers have been invading foreign missions in China since 2002.


Digitized And Brought To Life

Digital technology is radically changing the 165-year-old photography industry, creating turmoil and excitement as people buy digital cameras at rates far exceeding industry projections. -The Washington Post


New Computer? Six Steps to Safer Surfing

To see the e-mail I get every day from readers about security issues is to develop a deep discomfort with the state of computing today. Keeping a Windows PC safe can demand a high degree of vigilance. -Rob Pegoraro


Video Files Present A Search Challenge

Indexing Web pages looks like child's play next to indexing video files -- the next big frontier for Internet search engines. But they're giving it a try.


Toys 'R' Us banks on strategy

With one week left until Christmas, customers can still find some of the season's hottest toys, like Dora's Talking House and Bella Dancerella, a ballet kit, at Toys "R" Us Inc. But it's a different story at rival Wal-Mart Stores Inc. , whose inventory of many of the popular items has been depleted.


Compromise seals climate meeting

A climate conference overcomes last-minute objections to approve a deal on future talks global warning.


Administration cuts job growth forecast

The Bush administration, after being ridiculed by Democrats for an overly optimistic jobs forecast this year, yesterday significantly reduced its forecast for new jobs that will be created in 2005. It slightly boosted its estimate for overall economic growth.


Lazard files long-awaited \$850m IPO plan

Investment bank Lazard filed yesterday for its long-awaited initial public offering, asking to sell up to \$850 million in stock.


MetLife may be sued over Boston unit

MetLife Inc. , the second-largest US life insurer, said the Securities and Exchange Commission may sue the company for improperly recording expenses at its New England Life Insurance Co. unit.


Services held for quake victims

A series of special prayer services are being held across the UK on Sunday for the Asia earthquake victims.


Murdoch Offers Record Amount for Triplex

Description: News mogul Rupert Murdoch pays a record-setting \$44 million for a three-story Fifth Avenue penthouse in Manhattan formerly inhabited by the late Laurance Rockefeller.


No-Fuss Budgets

Some people think a budget means they have to live an austere life. In fact, in an effort to get people to budget, some experts say don't call it a budget at all.


Deal with Red Bull gives Coulthard wings

DAVID COULTHARD will contest the 2005 Formula One season after signing a one-year deal with Red Bull Racing. However, the 33-year-old Scot will have to work for his salary after agreeing a performance-related pay package.


Stokley flourishing with Colts

He was known as the deceptively fast, glue-fingered wide receiver who burned New York Giants cornerback Jason Sehorn for a deep touchdown to ignite the Ravens #39; Super Bowl XXXV rout.


Post-Kyoto climate talks end on a low

to get talks rolling for after 2012, when the Kyoto protocol to cut greenhouse gases runs out. protocol last month, allowing the treaty to take effect in February with a seven-year delay.


Brazil: Kidnapped footballer #39;s mother freed

Forty-one days after her dramatic abduction, Marina Lima de Souza, the mother of Brazils brightest footballing star, has been freed.


Stocks to Hold Up, But Anxiety Over Drugs (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. stocks should hold firm next week\with little economic data or corporate news on tap to move the\market going into the Christmas holiday, strategists said.


Despite Mega-Deals, Small Mergers Rule (Reuters)

Reuters - Despite the euphoria of one of the\busiest weeks in U.S. mergers and acquisitions in almost five\years, Wall Street investment bankers cannot live by mega-deals\alone.


Sabotage Stops Iraq's North Oil Exports (Reuters)

Reuters - Saboteurs blew up Iraq's northern\export pipeline for the second week in a row on Saturday,\halting oil flows to Turkey's Ceyhan port, oil officials said.


Full Extent of Indonesia Disaster Slowly Revealed

BANDA ACEH, Indonesia (Reuters) - A week after being  swamped by a massive tsunami, water is only just beginning to  drain off parts of Aceh's provincial capital, revealing the  full extent of the horrific destruction, and yet more bodies to  count.


Tsunami disaster overshadows India's ATP season-opener (AFP)

AFP - Generating relief funds for tsunami victims and gearing up for the new season is the players' aim as they prepare for the ATP Chennai Open.


Mortaza enjoys moment to remember

Bangladesh fast bowler Mashrafe bin Mortaza was understandably elated after dismissing Sachin Tendulkar with the first ball of the day in Chittagong.


EU agrees to membership talks with Turkey

HAMISH ROBERTSON: In an historic decision, the leaders of the European Union have agreed to open membership talks with Turkey, after the Turkish Prime Minister pledged to recognise the Greek-Cypriot Government next year.


Bosnia Serb PM Resigns, Rejects Western Pressure

Bosnian Serb Prime Minister Dragan Mikerevic stepped down on Friday, refusing to enact police and army reforms demanded by top peace overseer Paddy Ashdown.


North Korea says US steps up espionage flights

SEOUL, South Korea North Korea says America has increased the number of spy flights over its territory this year. The North says there have had been at least 21-hundred such flights through November.


Russia to hold Yukos auction despite US ruling

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


Utah Routs Pittsburgh in Fiesta Bowl

TEMPE, Ariz. (Sports Network) - Alex Smith threw for 328  yards and four touchdowns to lead fifth-ranked Utah to a  convincing 35-7 rout of 19th-ranked Pittsburgh in the Fiesta  Bowl at Sun Devil Stadium.


Stocks to Hold Up, But Anxiety Over Drugs

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks should hold firm next week  with little economic data or corporate news on tap to move the  market going into the Christmas holiday, strategists said.


Despite Mega-Deals, Small Mergers Rule

Philadelphia (Reuters) - Despite the euphoria of one of the  busiest weeks in U.S. mergers and acquisitions in almost five  years, Wall Street investment bankers cannot live by mega-deals  alone.


Wal-Mart Dec. Sales Still Seen Up 1-3 Pct

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Wal-Mart Stores Inc. WMT.N said on  Saturday it still expects a 1 percent to 3 percent increase in  December sales at its U.S. stores open at least a year as sales  of general merchandise and winter items improved in the latest  week.


Sabotage Stops Iraq's North Oil Exports

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Saboteurs blew up Iraq's northern  export pipeline for the second week in a row on Saturday,  halting oil flows to Turkey's Ceyhan port, oil officials said.


Corporate Cost-Cutters Miss Out

CHICAGO (Reuters) - One of the mantras of global industry  in recent years has been keeping inventories lean and mean, but  there are increasing signs this cost-cutting strategy is  creating strains and causing companies to miss out on sales.


Murdoch will shell out \$44 mil. for Manhattan penthouse

NEW YORK -- Rupert Murdoch, the billionaire CEO of News Corp., has reportedly offered to buy a three-story penthouse for \$44 million, which would be the highest price ever paid for a Manhattan by about \$1.75 million if the deal goes through.


AU Says Sudan Begins Troop Withdrawal from Darfur (Reuters)

Reuters - The African Union said on Saturday that\Sudan had started withdrawing troops in Darfur ahead of an\evening deadline to end fighting in the troubled region.


Insurgents Attack Iraq Election Offices (Reuters)

Reuters - Insurgents have launched attacks\on election offices in northern Iraq, killing two people and\wounding nine six weeks before Iraqis are due to go to the\polls.


Syria Redeploys Some Security Forces in Lebanon (Reuters)

Reuters - Syria, under intense pressure to quit\Lebanon, pulled out its security forces from three key\positions in Beirut and north Lebanon on Saturday and\redeployed them in eastern Lebanon.


Security Scare Closes British Airport (AP)

AP - Police arrested a Libyan man and blew up his luggage Saturday in a security scare that closed a small regional airport for about two hours.


Iraqi Judges Start Quizzing Saddam Aides (AP)

AP - Iraqi judges on Saturday started interrogating Saddam Hussein's former defense minister and the notorious general known as Chemical Ali, who is accused of gassing thousands of Kurds in the 1980s, the lead judge said.


Musharraf says won't quit as army chief (Reuters)

Reuters - Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has said he will stay on as army chief, reneging on a pledge to quit the powerful post by the end of the year.


Navy to go on PR 'offensive' to repair battered image of submarine program (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - HALIFAX (CP) - They have become the defining images of Canada's fault-filled submarine program.


NBA Wrap: Wade, O'Neal Carry Heat to 7th Straight Win

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Dwyane Wade scored 25 points to  inspire the Miami Heat to their seventh straight win, a 107-100  victory over the Denver Nuggets Friday.


Barack Obama Gets  #36;1.9 Million Book Deal (AP)

AP - U.S. Sen.-elect Barack Obama, whose 1995 book jumped onto best seller lists after his keynote address to the Democratic National Convention, has landed a three-book deal worth  #36;1.9 million.


Rauffer Beats Favorites to Win Downhill

VAL GARDENA, Italy (Reuters) - Max Rauffer became the first  German man in nearly 13 years to win an Alpine ski World Cup  race when he beat the favorites in a wind-affected downhill on  Saturday.


Iraqis Face Winter Shivering by Candlelight

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - As if the daily struggle to dodge  bullets and bombings is not enough, many Iraqis now face a  freezing winter shivering by candlelight as persistent attacks  keep the power out for more than 12 hours a day.


AU Says Sudan Begins Troop Withdrawal from Darfur

ABUJA (Reuters) - The African Union said on Saturday that  Sudan had started withdrawing troops in Darfur ahead of an  evening deadline to end fighting in the troubled region.


Syria Redeploys Some Security Forces in Lebanon

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syria, under intense pressure to quit  Lebanon, pulled out its security forces from three key  positions in Beirut and north Lebanon on Saturday and  redeployed them in eastern Lebanon.


Pakistan's Musharraf Says Won't Quit as Army Chief

KARACHI (Reuters) - Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf  has said he will stay on as army chief, reneging on a pledge to  quit the powerful post by the end of the year.


Renteria signing a top-shelf deal

Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein acknowledged Edgar Renteria was more a luxury for the 2005 Red Sox than a necessity. But there's nothing wrong with getting the keys to a BMW, and that's what the four-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glover is in the eyes of the Red Sox.


Saban not going to Dolphins yet

The Miami Dolphins will put their courtship of LSU coach Nick Saban on hold to comply with the NFL's hiring policy by interviewing at least one minority candidate, a team source told The Associated Press last night.


Today's NFL games

PITTSBURGH at NY GIANTS Time: 1:30 p.m. Line: Steelers by 10. Records: Steelers 12-1, Giants 5-8. Vs. spread: Steelers 10-1-2, Giants 5-8. Series: Giants lead, 43-27-3. Comments: Think the Giants knew Ben Roethlisberger was available on draft day when they broke the bank and traded for Eli Manning? . . . All Big Ben has done this year is complete ...


Nets get Carter from Raptors

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