Crude futures decline for 2d consecutive day

The two-day decline in oil prices, with crude futures briefly dipping below \$53 a barrel yesterday, is a temporary trend that is likely to reverse itself before too long, analysts and traders said.


Legendary bandit buried in India

The funeral of India's most notorious bandit, Veerappan, takes place  at a village in southern Tamil Nadu state.


Burma's prime minister is ousted

BANGKOK, Thailand -- Burma's tough but pragmatic prime minister was removed from power yesterday by his hard-line army colleagues, clouding prospects for the freedom of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and for democracy in the military-led Southeast Asian nation.


Cuba's baseball fans find ways to tune in

HAVANA -- There are few places outside of Boston, New York, Houston, and St. Louis where the Major League playoffs are being followed with such keen interest as on this baseball-crazy island. Every day, upwards of 100 men, young and old, pay a visit to the ''Esquina Caliente, quot; or ''hot corner quot; in Havana's Central Park -- a legendary spot under ...


Tehran official calls a Bush win preferable

TEHRAN -- The head of Iran's security council said yesterday that the reelection of President Bush was in Tehran's best interests, despite the administration's axis of evil label, accusations that Iran harbors Al Qaeda terrorists, and threats of sanctions over the country's nuclear ambitions. Historically, Democrats have harmed Iran more than Republicans, said Hasan Rowhani, head of the Supreme National ...


Radical cleric accused of inciting followers

LONDON -- British authorities charged extremist cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri yesterday with possessing Al Qaeda literature and inciting the killing of Jews and other non-Muslims, delaying his possible extradition to the United States, where he is wanted on terrorism charges.


Israeli faults rabbis' urgings on settlements

JERUSALEM -- Israel's army chief of staff yesterday condemned a call from scores of rabbis on observant soldiers to refuse to obey orders to evacuate Jewish settlements under next year's planned Israeli pullout from the Gaza Strip.


Key advocate for Iraqis, seen as 'heroine', now a hostage

LONDON -- She's lived in Iraq for three decades and has been a passionate advocate for its people, arguing against the US-led invasion, but humanitarian worker Margaret Hassan finds herself a pawn as the latest hostage in the conflict gripping her adopted homeland.


US general backs off on confidence of bin Laden capture

WASHINGTON -- The US general who predicted Osama bin Laden would be captured or killed this year struck a decidedly cautionary note yesterday, saying he doesn't know when or if the mastermind of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks will be brought to justice.


A ball of fire, then bloodshed

MADRID -- A ball of fire erupts from a train car, smothering commuters with smoke, and littering the platform with bodies and blood in a chilling security-camera videotape of the March 11 train bombings broadcast yesterday by a Spanish station.


Foes of Death Penalty Making Gradual Gains in Africa

Foes of the death penalty say fewer Africans than ever before are being hanged, beaten, shot, shocked, stoned or poisoned by their governments.


Nations to Strategize on Iraq, Italian Foreign Minister Says

F   ranco Frattini , Italy's foreign minister, said a two-day international meeting on Iraq in late November will examine ways to stabilize the country and develop plans for an exit strategy for the U.S.-led occupation force there.


Md. Officer's Army Leave A Fraud, Police Say

Officer Andrew Barnett of the Anne Arundel County police allegedly told his superiors last year that his nation needed him -- that his Army reserves unit had been activated and that he was headed to Iraq. With that, police say, Barnett was granted a leave from his job while continuing to collect his salary.


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Japan probe claims Citigroup trio

Astana - New York. October 20. KAZINFORM quotes Reuters -- Three top Citigroup Inc. executives, including Vice Chairman Deryck Maughan, are leaving the financial services giant in the wake of a scandal at its Japanese private banking unit.


Fan:  #39;It was a HR #39;

The fan in the first row in leftfield who was hit by Mark Bellhorn #39;s three-run homer in the fourth inning wasn #39;t taking any chances.


Facts about Burma

Country: Burma, also known as Myanmar, is a Southeast Asian nation bordered by Bangladesh and India to the west, China to the north, and Thailand and Laos to the east and southeast.


Israeli clergy, military at odds

Israel #39;s top military officials spoke out Tuesday against calls for disobedience after rabbis urged religiously devout soldiers to refuse to take part in the removal of Jewish


Al-Zarqawi terror group alters name

CAIRO, Egypt - Tawhid and Jihad, the Iraqi group of terror mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, apparently has changed its name two days after announcing its merger with Osama bin Laden #39;s al-Qaida organization.


British redeployment in Iraq meets with opposition

The British Ministry of Defense confirmed on Sunday that the US has sent a request to the British government for redeployment of the British forces stationed in Iraq because the US troops stationed in Iraq are preparing for new military actions in Fallujah


Germany and Britain Warn Iran

The foreign ministers of Britain and Germany issued a joint warning to Iran on Tuesday to address international worries about its nuclear program, serving notice that Tehran must take action immediately.


One dead, four missing as powerful typhoon pounds Japan

TOKYO : One person is dead and four others are missing as Japan #39;s biggest typhoon in more than a decade pounded the south of the country with heavy rain and powerful winds, officials said.


Train may connect Gaza to Ashdod

The government is considering linking the Gaza Strip to the Israeli railroad system as part of the disengagement plan, Itamar Yaar, deputy head of the National Security Council, said on Tuesday.


North Korean visit to China  quot;positive, encouraging quot;: South Korea

SEOUL : South Korea #39;s foreign minister said Wednesday a visit by North Korea #39;s second-ranking leader to China was  quot;positive and encouraging quot; for a resumption of stalled six-nation talks on Pyongyang #39;s nuclear drive.


Hearing Over Brawl Suspensions to Proceed (AP)

AP - The NBA informed the players' union Sunday it will not seek a temporary restraining order in federal court, clearing the way for a grievance hearing over suspensions for the Pacers-Pistons brawl.


Dell pulls away from HP

AUSTIN, Texas _ Dell Inc. expanded its share of the personal-computer market in the third quarter, taking advantage of its traditionally strong commercial sales in the period to extend its lead over rival Hewlett-Packard Co.


Bruandwo to allow shareholders to withdraw acceptance

The Takeovers Panel said today that Brundwo Pty Limited has offered two undertakings relating to its proposed A\$1.2 billion bid for Australian Leisure  amp; Hospitality Group Limited (ALH).


Enron #39;s Lay to Have Two Trials

Former Enron Corp. chairman Kenneth L. Lay, who for weeks had been pressing to be tried on his own on criminal charges related to the company #39;s demise, yesterday got more than he bargained for.


JBoss goes up the stack to Business Processes

JBoss after a series of announcements last month (see JBoss announces gt;) has made another significant announcement with JBoss jBPM, their first step into business process management.


It looks like Lowe for Game 7

All Derek Lowe could do last night was wait and hope. When the baseball gods finally smiled on the Red Sox one more time, extending the season another


A ball of fire, then bloodshed

A ball of fire erupts from a train car, smothering commuters with smoke, and littering the platform with bodies and blood in a chilling security-camera


Allawi announces nationwide arms buyback scheme

Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Allawi gives a keynote speech on government policy and the challenges facing Iraq before its elections to members of the Iraqi National Assembly in Baghdad, October 18.


BRIT HOSTAGE NO 2: BLAIR FACES A MAULING

TONY Blair faces a mauling in the Commons today from Labour backbenchers furious at a plea for British troops to bail out the Americans.


Marsh suspends four over insurance probe - WSJ

Embattled insurance broker Marsh  amp; McLennan Cos. (MMC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) has suspended four employees as part of a far-reaching investigation into industry practices, the


Coca-Cola agrees to share its fridges

COCA-COLA will open its fridges to its rivals after the soft drink giant reached a landmark antitrust settlement last night with the European Union.


Update 6: Motorola Expands Cell-Phone Market Niche

Motorola Inc. says it #39;s ready to make inroads in the cell-phone market after posting a third straight strong quarter and rolling out a series of new handsets in time for the holiday selling season.


UK Judge Strikes Out Record Damage Claim Against FT

A judge on Wednesday ruled to strike out a record 230.5 million pound (\$415 million) claim for special damages by British investment bank Collins Stewart against the Financial Times newspaper.


NY firm wants all of Mondavi

New York beverage conglomerate Constellation Brands said Tuesday that it has offered \$1.3 billion -- \$970 million in cash and \$333 million in assumed debt -- to acquire Robert Mondavi Corp.


Govt hikes FDI cap in aviation to 49

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) today approved the proposal to hike foreign direct investment (FDI) limit in civil aviation sector from 40 to 49 per cent but barred foreign airlines from holding stakes.


Shoppers to boost holiday spending

NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - Don #39;t expect higher gas prices to dull gift-giving this year: Consumers plan to spend a bit more on holiday gifts and merchandise, according to a survey released Wednesday.


EU newcomers not yet ready to join euro: Brussels (AFP)

AFP - None of the European Union's 10 new member states yet fulfils the criteria for joining Europe's single currency, the European Commission said in a report.


Tech Sector's Mixed Signals (washingtonpost.com)

washingtonpost.com - The tech sector can't pop open the bubbly yet, since pink slips are flying and shipping jobs overseas is as en vogue as 1980s fashion trends. But there are signs of growth that give reason to at least put the champagne on ice, with PC sales rising and small businesses planning to plunk down serious cash on technology purchases, according to a new batch of studies.


AMD presents more troubles for Intel

If canceling the Pentium-4 4GHz processor was not enough, AMD has come up with fresher set of problems for Intel. Chipmaker Advanced Micro Devices renewed the claims of being the maker of the fastest PC Microprocessors


Apple Unveils  quot;Fastest quot; iBook G4

Apple has unveiled, what it calls the fastest, most affordable iBook G4 ever for consumers and education customers. The latest iBook features a built-in AirPort Extreme 54 Mbps 802.


Powell calls for regulatory rein on VoIP

The US Federal Communications Commission must assert its regulatory authority over voice over IP as a matter of priority, FCC chairman Michael Powell said in an address at the VON Fall 2004 conference and exposition.


Killer whales, newborns in tow, head south

with two newborns in tow -- are heading south for the fall  quot;chum festival, quot; says a whale researcher in the San Juan Islands.


Hacker hits California university

Carlos Ramos, assistant secretary at the California Health and Human Services Agency, said:  quot;The investigation is continuing but we have no idea if the personal information has been compromised.


Half Life 2 Set for November

One of the most anticipated computer games of the year, Half-Life 2, is seeing the light of day in November. The game is due to go on sale worldwide on 16 November, its publisher Vivendi has announced.


PCI Express Support for AMD64 Desktop Platforms

I guess this news will have to hold us over until the individual companies make their announcements. AMD today announced PCI Express support from leading chipset manufacturers, offering performance-hungry


NASA needs Lockheed savvy

Despite four major disappointments involving Lockheed Martin Space Systems projects in recent years, NASA is unlikely to deny the Jefferson County company future contracts, space analysts said.


LG Philips lays claim to OLED crown

LG Philips is developing what the company claims is the world #39;s largest organic light-emitting diode display. The company, which manufactures thin-film-transistor (TFT) LCD screens in South Korea, unveiled


Apple To Unveil Special-Edition U2 iPod

Apple Computer is reportedly readying a new special-edition iPod that will coincide with the release of U2 #39;s upcoming CD, entitled  quot;Vertigo.


Cisco brings IT skills to UK prisoners

Cisco Systems is working with the UK government on a pilot programme to train prison inmates in information and communications technology (ICT) skills.


Samsung develops world's first five-megapixel camera phone (AFP)

AFP - South Korea's Samsung Electronics has developed the world's first mobile phone equipped with a five-megapixel camera.


CENTRAL BANK WATCH: RBNZ Won #39;t Change Neutral Stance

WELLINGTON (Dow Jones)--New Zealand #39;s central bank is unlikely to alter its neutral monetary policy stance, and almost certainly won #39;t hike interest rates


Lidge, Wheeler shine brightest in relief

Entering the National League Championship Series, the St. Louis Cardinals appeared to have a decisive edge over the Astros in several areas, including the bullpen.


Ecclestone closing door on British GP

Formula One commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone has said that time has run out for the organisers of the British Grand Prix to save the race for the 2005 season.


Improving Real will qualify from tight group, says coach

Real Madrid believe they will qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League after recording their second win in a row with an edgy 1-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev.


MLB gathering groups wanting to buy Expos

Major League Baseball Tuesday kicked off the process of selling the team formerly known as the Montreal Expos, while the president of the franchise said it might have a new name soon after the World Series ends.


Key events in the past 20 months in Washington athletics

Feb. 11, 2003 -- Football coach Rick Neuheisel denies speculation that he interviewed with the San Francisco 49ers for their head coaching position, saying he never met with the NFL team.


Morgan traded for  #39;Boys Bryant

Some may see the Browns #39; straight-up trade of Quincy Morgan for Antonio Bryant of the Dallas Cowboys as an inconsequential swap of two disgruntled receivers.


Chargers lose their leading wide receiver

SAN DIEGO - The San Diego Chargers lost a wide receiver Tuesday, the same day they acquired Keenan McCardell from the Buccaneers. While they were finalizing the deal for McCardell just before the NFL trading


India's Satyam posts 28 percent jump in second quarter profit (AFP)

AFP - Leading Indian software exporter, Satyam, second quarter profit rose 27.92 percent to 41.2 million dollars on the back of strong orders and rationalisation of costs.


US must wait to prosecute Muslim cleric

LONDON - British authorities pre-empted a US bid to extradite radical Muslim cleric Abu Hamza al-Masri, charging the fiery preacher Tuesday with urging followers to kill non-Muslims, in some case specifically targeting Jews.


Karzai #39;s lead shows Afghan ethnic divide

Hamid Karzai has been cruising to victory in Afghanistan #39;s first direct presidential elections, but the returns so far have underscored the ethnic fault lines that often divide the country.


More tigers die of suspected bird flu at Thai zoo after eating raw <b>...</b>

Seven more tigers have died at a private zoo in Thailand where 23 others succumbed to bird flu, an official said Wednesday. In addition to the 30 tigers who have died, 23 others remain


Oil Holds Firm, Heating Fuel Woes Persist

LONDON (Reuters) - Oil prices held strong above \$53 a  barrel on Wednesday as worries over a winter supply crunch  countered expectations that high fuel costs would curb growth  in petroleum demand next year.


Rallying Red Sox on Verge of Historic Win

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Boston Red Sox can make baseball  history on Wednesday by becoming the first team to overturn a  three-game deficit in a best-of-seven series.


Washington Orca Population Heads South (AP)

AP - Washington state's resident killer whales, with two newborns in tow, dodged a potentially lethal roadblock in their voyage south to feast on a healthy run of chum salmon, experts say.


Company Offers 'Space Memorial Services' (AP)

AP - People interested in an out-of-this-world post-death experience can "boldly go where no man has gone before" with a space memorial service that blasts their ashes into space.


Rice gets new team but has same number

Seattle gave up a seventh-round draft choice in 2005 to acquire the 42-year-old Rice. The trade reunites Rice, a 13-time Pro Bowl selection in his 20th NFL season, with coach Mike Holmgren.


Cambodia #39;s new king, Norodom Sihamoni, arrives home

PHNOM PENH : Cambodia #39;s new king, Norodom Sihamoni, has arrived home, less than a week after he was appointed to the throne vacated by his revered father.


Dollar Broadly Weak on Econ Worries

LONDON (Reuters) - The dollar fell to a 7-1/2 month low  against the euro on Wednesday and a three-month trough on the  Swiss franc as a selloff on the back of recent worries about  the U.S. economy and interest rate outlook gained momentum. The  yen came under pressure briefly as Tokyo stocks fell 1.65  percent. But given the export-oriented economy's reliance on  oil, a recent retreat in oil prices underpinned the currency  near this week's three-month high on the dollar.


Oil wealth 'can cause corruption'

Oil wealth can often lead to corruption, according to the latest survey by anti-corruption campaign group Transparency International.


Citigroup loses three executives

Three of Citigroup's most senior executives are to leave the Wall Street heavyweight following last month's closure of its Japanese operations, reports say.


A team with verve suddenly on the verge

Can 86 years of tainted history be swept clean by one sweet, absurdly improbable act of redemption, the likes of which has never been seen in hardball history?


UK gas prices 'pushed up by oil'

Gas prices in the UK are likely to remain high for at least another three years, a report predicts, due to record oil prices and supply shortages.


A-Rod a bigger villain in one swipe

It was an innocent enough looking roller. But, almost immediately, you sensed something weird was going to happen to the Red Sox at a critical juncture of a game they could not afford to lose.


Roberts's rule: Use his speed

There aren't many players in baseball who can change a game with their speed. But Dave Roberts is certainly among the handful who can, and the Red Sox utility outfielder made his presence felt on the bases in Games 4 and 5.


House market slowing, lenders say

Mortgage lending fell 4 in September, the Council of Mortgage Lenders says - a further sign that the housing market is slowing.


Torre not ready to name starter

So who's pitching the most important game of the year for the Yankees tonight? Manager Joe Torre wasn't saying last night.


Chase was on all summer -- now it's a dead heat

They followed the Yankees across the summer and on into fall the way a young boy shadows his daddy. From June 1, the day the Yankees took over first place in the American League East, the Red Sox gave chase, falling to a seemingly hopeless 10 1/2 games back in mid-August, charging back, but never making it ...


Transactions

BASEBALL Florida (NL): Released Ps Billy Koch and Aaron Small and C Ramon Castro; added INFs Joe Dillon and Derek Wathan to roster.


'84 US women's team united in cancer fight

Last spring, Kris Thorsness got to thinking about her former teammates on the 1984 US Olympic gold-medal winning rowing team. When the team got together before those Games, they put on skits  quot;to break the tension, quot; and Thorsness remembered that the skit she was involved in was about a 20-year reunion. Why not bring it to life? she figured.


Eaves gives Eages a boost

Patrick Eaves scored two goals and added an assist to lead No. 1 Boston College to a 3-2 Hockey East victory over host UMass-Lowell last night at Tsongas Arena.


Taxus sales lift Boston Scientific in 3d quarter but stock takes slide

Boston Scientific Corp. yesterday said third-quarter net income more than doubled, reflecting strong orders for the Natick company's drug-coated Taxus cardiac stents.


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Collins Stewart #39;s FT claim fails

THE High Court has thrown out a 230m damages claim brought by City stockbroker Collins Stewart against the Financial Times newspaper.


Washington Orca Population Heads South

Washington state #39;s resident killer whales, with two newborns in tow, dodged a potentially lethal roadblock in their voyage south to feast on a healthy run of chum salmon, experts say.


FPD makers compete for spotlight at FPD International 2004

FPD (flat-panel display) makers from Taiwan, Japan and South Korea are competing for the spotlight at FPD International 2004 in Yokohama Japan (October 20-22).


Ads in video games set to rise

Ads in video games are becoming a lucrative area for firms trying to reach young people.


Israeli Troops Kill 2 Palestinians in South Gaza (Reuters)

Reuters - Israeli troops killed a Palestinian on his\way to a mosque in a Gaza refugee camp on Wednesday as well as\a gunman closing in on an army outpost in a nearby buffer zone,\witnesses and militants said.


Family of Six Found Dead in Iraqi Home Hit by U.S. (Reuters)

Reuters - Rescuers dug the bodies of six\members of one family -- a couple and their four children --\out of the rubble of an Iraqi house bombed by U.S. warplanes on\Wednesday, witnesses said.


Pfizer Profit Up on Demand for Key Drugs

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Pfizer Inc. PFE.N, the world's  biggest drugmaker, on Wednesday said third-quarter earnings  rose on higher sales of key medicines.


Strong Demand Pushes Honeywell Profit

BOSTON (Reuters) - Diversified manufacturer Honeywell  International Inc. HON.N posted a rise in quarterly profit as  strong demand for aerospace equipment and automobile components  boosted revenues, the company said on Wednesday.


Kodak Profits on Discontinued Operations

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Eastman Kodak Co. EK.N, the world's  top maker of photographic film, on Wednesday said its third  quarter profit rose, boosted by discontinued operations. Sales  were boosted by the weaker dollar and its key growth area of  digital photography.  Rochester, New York-based Kodak, which one year ago announced a  dramatic strategy shift toward digital cameras and printing and  away from film, posted net income of \$479 million, or \$1.67 a  share, including \$1.51 from discontinued operations. A year  earlier its profit was \$122 million, or 42 cents a share.     Multimedia versions of Reuters Top News are now available for:   * 3000 Xtra    : visit http://topnews.session.rservices.com  *  BridgeStation: view story .134  For more information on Top  News, visit  http://topnews.reuters.com


Whirlpool Profit Falls as Costs Rise

ATLANTA (Reuters) - Appliance maker Whirlpool Corp. WHR.N  on Wednesday said quarterly profit was about flat as it was  pressured by higher raw material and oil costs.


Family of Six Found Dead in Iraqi Home Hit by U.S.

FALLUJA, Iraq (Reuters) - Rescuers dug the bodies of six  members of one family -- a couple and their four children --  out of the rubble of an Iraqi house bombed by U.S. warplanes on  Wednesday, witnesses said.


Marsh Says Probe May Hurt Borrowing

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Embattled insurance broker Marsh    McLennan Cos. , the main target of a probe into insurance bid  rigging, said on Wednesday it will have only limited ability to  borrow money through the rest of the year.


Iran Wants to Prove It Has No Nuclear Ambitions

TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran is ready to prove to the world it  is not producing atomic weapons if the West recognizes the  Islamic Republic's right to have peaceful nuclear technology,  President Mohammad Khatami said Wednesday.


Karzai's Big Poll Lead Shows Afghan Ethnic Divide

KABUL (Reuters) - Hamid Karzai was cruising to victory in  Afghanistan's first direct presidential elections, but by  Wednesday the returns so far have underscored the ethnic fault  lines that have often divided the country.


Screen Sizzlers

Hot new video game titles aim at Generation XXX, where racy content falls between barely decent and indecently bare. -The Washington Post


Ex-WorldCom CEO's Defense Wins Delay

A federal judge agreed Tuesday to delay former WorldCom Inc. chief executive Bernard J. Ebbers's trial until January to give his lawyers more time to prepare his defense.
-The Washington Post


XM Satellite Radio Signs Baseball Deal

Washington's XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. plans to announce a deal worth as much as \$650 million with Major League Baseball today that will enable the company to carry most regular and postseason games over the next several years beginning with Opening Day 2005, said a source familiar with the deal.


Pepco Sells Starpower Stake for \$29 Million

Pepco Communications said yesterday that it sold its stake in Starpower Communications LLC to RCN Corp., its partner in Starpower, for \$29 million.


Kiln's 'ancestor' found in Greece

Archaeologists have discovered the oldest clay "fireplaces" made by humans at a dig in southern Greece.


Radiation risks 'need updating'

A UK panel examining radiation risks says official estimates of the dangers to health may be wide of the mark - but not substantially.


Big fall in corruption in Kenya

The Kenyan government's campaign to tackle corruption is having an impact, says Transparency International.


A Magical Morning

Would you like to see a piece of Halley's Comet streak past a planet that looks like an exploding star? This week you can, on Thursday, Oct. 21st, when the Orionid meteor shower peaks.


Blair denies politics plays role in decisions on troops

LONDON -- Prime Minister Tony Blair said yesterday that British troops would only be redeployed to the more volatile, US-controlled sector of Iraq if it was militarily justified.


Computing pioneers get historical nod

Spreadsheet pioneer Dan Bricklin is among the computing innovators honored by the Computer History Museum.


Dell to open new PC plant in United States

Company set to announce plan to build stateside factory, CEO Kevin Rollins says in wide-ranging interview with CNET News.com.


Check Point's optimistic pessimist

Check Point Software Technology's Gil Shwed weighs in on who's winning the war of attrition between virus writers and the security companies they drive crazy.


Case study: Data crunch in Florida ballots

Use of databases to purge voter rolls led to complaints of people being wrongly excluded.


Digital Agenda: Homeland security--A global assault on anonymity (page 3)

Cutting-edge data mining and other intelligence tools could redefine privacy as we know it. A News.com special report.


Digital Agenda: Homeland security--A global assault on anonymity (page 2)


Digital Agenda: Homeland security--A global assault on anonymity


Strong Demand Pushes Honeywell Profit (Reuters)

Reuters - Diversified manufacturer Honeywell\International Inc.  posted a rise in quarterly profit as\strong demand for aerospace equipment and automobile components\boosted revenues, the company said on Wednesday.


Russia Urged to Combat Hazing in Army (AP)

AP - Human Rights Watch urged Russian authorities on Wednesday to take action against the vicious hazing that plagues the nation's military, saying the abuse that kills dozens of conscripts every year and traumatizes thousands more can be prevented.


Office Depot 3Q Profit Declines (AP)

AP - Office products retailer Office Depot Inc. on Wednesday reported a decline in third-quarter profit due to softening in its European business, disruptions associated with the hurricanes in the southeastern United States, and lower-than-expected back-to-school sales.


Stocks Look to Open Weak as Oil Firms

NEW YORK (Reuters) -  Stock futures slipped on Wednesday,  pointing to a weak market open, as firming oil prices and a  wide-reaching investigation into the insurance and health  industry cast a shadow over Wall Street.


CARE Halts Iraq Operations After Director Kidnapped (Update4)

CARE International suspended aid operations in Iraq after its country director Margaret Hassan, who has dual Iraqi and British nationality, was kidnapped, said Grant Thomas, a spokesman for the organization.


Reuters Poll: Bush and Kerry Still in Dead Heat (Reuters)

Reuters - President Bush and Democratic Sen.\John Kerry remain tied for the third consecutive day in the\race for the White House, according to a Reuters/Zogby poll\released on Wednesday.


LG Philips lays claim to biggest OLED

Prototype 20.1-inch display is the world's largest OLED, the South Korea-based manufacturer says.


ARM's new chip aims beyond cell phones

Chip designer announces new processor for wider digital-device market, moving it beyond portable-device niche.


Mortgage Applications Climb Last Week

NEW YORK (Reuters) - New applications for U.S. home loans  climbed last week, as most mortgage rates fell from the  previous week, an industry group said on Wednesday.


NEW YORK (Reuters) - Eastman Kodak Co. EK.N, the world's  top maker of photographic film, on Wednesday said its third  quarter profit rose, boosted by discontinued operations. Sales  were boosted by the weaker dollar and its key growth area of  digital photography.


NJ residents plan lawsuit to block e-voting

Threatened with a lawsuit to block the use of electronic voting machines, New Jersey's Office of the Attorney General is defending them as secure.


E-voting sceptics use Web to monitor election

For technology experts concerned about how electronic voting systems will perform on election day, what better tools to use to monitor the situation than those of their trade: the Web and open source development.


GM CTO sees more code on future cars

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - The relationship between General Motors Corp. (GM) and the software industry is set for some major changes over the next few years as software becomes a more important component of the automobile, said Anthony Scott, the chief technology officer of GM's Information Systems and Services organization, at a conference of software industry executives Tuesday in Santa Clara, California.


Critics, supporters prepare for U.S. e-voting

WASHINGTON - Voting security advocates in the U.S. are bracing for a repeat of problems in the upcoming general election that could rival Florida during the 2000 presidential race.


Problems with e-voting? Blame the humans

Voters worried that an electronic voting machine might accidentally eat their vote on Nov. 2 would be better off pointing the finger of blame at clueless poll workers than at shiny new touchscreen machines, according to information released by the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA).
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What sold them on improving their network? A system that could cut management costs from the get-go. Find out more.


ARM's new Cortex cores deliver big punch in small chip

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - Chip designer Arm Ltd.'s new Cortex family of processor cores will help designers of mobile and embedded devices build powerful systems that use less memory, the company said Tuesday at its developer conference.


Microsoft ponders licensing for app virtualization scenarios

SANTA CLARA, CALIF. -- Noting two evolving areas of software licensing, Microsoft is pondering how to license when multiple instances of an application are run on a single computer, but is not eyeing a plan for utility-based computing, in which charges are based on individual usage.


Intel dual-core Xeon to ship in 2006

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - Intel Corp. plans to ship its first Xeon processors based on a new dual-core architecture in 2006, company officials said Tuesday, a disclosure that surprised industry observers who had expected the chips to appear in 2005.


enKoo adds higher-end device for securing e-mail and applications

Network appliance vendor enKoo has introduced a new remote-access device designed for midsize businesses.


E-Voting States Brace For Problems

Nearly 30 percent of U.S. voters will cast their 2004 ballots electronically.


Military ousts Myanmar leader

Myanmar #39;s prime minister was sacked Tuesday by his army colleagues, clouding prospects for the freedom of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and for democracy in the military-led Southeast Asian nation.


Search Memories

Veterans of AltaVista, Excite and Infoseek reminisce about the early days of web search, and opine about Google, then and now.


Vauxhall Plant Set to Face Parts Shortage

Vauxhall car workers were today told to check before arriving for their shift amid expectations that production will be halted because of a shortage of components caused by a strike in Germany.


FDI hike in civil aviation cleared

In a move that could boost the aviation sector in India, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal to hike Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) ceiling in civil aviation from 40 to 49.


Lending keeps Ford profit up; sales sputtering

Buoyed again by strong results at its financial-services arm, Ford swung to a profit of \$266 million in the third quarter even though the loss at its worldwide automotive operations widened and its market share in the key US market fell by more than a


Cisco brings IT skills to UK prisoners

Cisco Systems is working with the UK government on a pilot program to train prison inmates in information and communications technology (ICT) skills.


New Zealand Cricketer Franklin Takes Test Hat-Trick (Update1)

James Franklin became the second New Zealand cricketer to take a Test match hat-trick as he helped restrict Bangladesh to 177 all out in the first Test in Dhaka.


I WANT US TO SHAKH OFF AWAY DAZE

in the UkraineJACKIE McNAMARA is fed up with hard luck stories and tales of what might have been. By the end of tonight #39;s match against Shakhtar Donetsk in Ukraine, he wants to be able to talk


Henry gets captain #39;s call

Arsene Wenger has made Thierry Henry captain for tonight #39;s clash with Panathinaikos. In a surprise move, the French striker will replace Patrick Vieira, who misses the game with an ankle injury.


Aid worker kidnapping: Your reaction

The charity Care International has suspended its aid operations in Iraq after the abduction of its regional director in Baghdad. Dublin-born Margaret Hassan was seized on her way to work in Baghdad on Tuesday.


Typhoon Nears Tokyo; Seven Dead, Transport Snarled (Update1)

Typhoon Tokage is moving toward Tokyo, the Japan Meteorological Agency said. The storm has been blamed for at least seven deaths, Kyodo News reported.


Ecclestone ready to ditch Silverstone

Motorsport.com. Bernie Ecclestone said the British Grand Prix is unlikely to go ahead in 2005, as an agreement cannot be reached with the British Racing Drivers #39; Club (BRDC).


Govt hikes FDI cap in civil aviation to 49 pc

Government today hiked Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) cap for domestic airlines from 40 to 49 per cent through the automatic route but barred foreign airlines from picking up direct or indirect equity.


Bank sages stumped by economic riddles

The Bank of England #39;s most prominent sages have admitted to being stumped by apparent paradoxes in the country #39;s economic performance, including inflation #39;s fall to within an ace of missing its target.


Apple Enhances iBook, Cuts Prices Before Holidays

Apple Computer Inc. (AAPL.O: Quote, Profile, Research) on Tuesday announced a faster version of its popular iBook notebook personal computer and a less expensive model of its PowerMac


Q amp;A with Jorge Posada

Here is what New York Yankee #39;s catcher, Jorge Posada had to say prior to game six between the Yankees and the Red Sox. PP: Just curious, on the Damon bunt last night, did you think at all about letting it fall and trying to get a double play that way?


Soe Win named new prime minister of Myanmar

Myanmar, also known as Burma, has confirmed the ousting of its prime minister Khin Nyunt. A senior figure in the country #39;s ruling military junta, said he has been replaced by a deputy to one of the top two generals in the country.


Pfizer Profit Up on Demand for Key Drugs

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Pfizer Inc. PFE.N, the world's  biggest drugmaker, on Wednesday said third-quarter earnings  rose on higher sales of key medicines and favorable foreign  exchange factors.


Wyeth Reverses Last Year's Loss

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Wyeth WYE.N on Wednesday reported a  third-quarter profit, reversing a loss in the year-ago period,  when it took a \$2 billion charge for liabilities from its  recalled "fen-phen" diet medicines.


News: California reports massive data breach

An intruder who cracked a U.C. Berkeley research system in August had access to private data on 1.4 million caregivers and beneficiaries participating in a state social program. \


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Infocus: Securing Exchange With ISA Server 2004

This article will highlight the security issues involved with providing Outlook Web Access or full Outlook client connections over the Internet, and then discuss how Microsoft's new ISA Server 2004 can be configured to mitigate these threats.


Tiger Early Start Kit for Developers

Start developing for Mac OS X v10.4  #147;Tiger, #148; the next release of Apple #146;s powerful UNIX-based operating system, due to ship in the first half of 2005. The Tiger Early Start Kit for Developers provides everything developers need  #151; including pre-release Tiger software, Tiger documentation, access to Tiger support engineers and more  #151; to create revolutionary Tiger products. Oct 19


When War Games Meet Video Games

A Department of Defense group tests a new battle simulator to see what it can learn about urban combat. But this ain't no SimCity. By Amit Asaravala.


Midwest Awash in Giant Grottos

In the early 20th century, artists and religious leaders in the Midwest outdid each other building vast shrines called grottos. Many of these eccentric constructions remain significant attractions today. Michelle Delio reports from Dickeyville, Wisconsin.


Pharms Take Root in South Africa

Researchers have taken to genetically modifying plants to produce medicine for the developing world, but not everyone is keen on the idea. Megan Lindow reports from Cape Town, South Africa.


Chinese Groups Seek to Halt a Dam and Save a Treasured Place

Environmentalists in China are fighting plans for a hydropower project that they say would endanger one of the world's deepest gorges.


Microsoft to Debut 'Istanbul' Application

Microsoft introduced a desktop computer application that aims to seamlessly integrate e-mail, instant messaging, video conferencing, traditional phone service and Internet-based calling.


Profit Jumps at Motorola, but Shares Trade Lower

The company said it has benefited from growing demand for handsets that work on the new higher-speed networks being introduced by carriers in the U.S., Europe and Asia.


F.C.C. to Seek Net Telephone Oversight

Michael Powell, chairman of the F.C.C., said he would seek broad regulatory authority for the federal government over Internet-based telephone services to avoid stifling the emerging market.


Hacker Hits California University Computer

A computer hacker accessed names and Social Security numbers of about 1.4 million Californians after breaking into a University of California, Berkeley, computer system.


Jon Stewart 'Crossfire' Feud Ignites Net Frenzy

When comedian Jon Stewart blasted the hosts of CNN's "Crossfire" on the cable TV program, he ignited a frenzy of online activity.


Study Finds Dramatic Loss of Tech Jobs

Job trimming at technology companies took off during the past three months, according to a new report.


United Technologies Quarter Profit Rises (Reuters)

Reuters - Diversified manufacturer United\Technologies Corp.  posted a rise in quarterly profit,\helped by strong infrastructure demand and a recovery in its\aerospace business, the company said on Wednesday.


Wireless Business Helps Lucent Profit (Reuters)

Reuters - Lucent Technologies Inc. , among\the world's largest makers of telecommunications equipment, on\Wednesday said quarterly earnings rose, helped by improvement\in its wireless networks business, which makes base stations\and other products.


Mortgage Applications Climb Last Week (Reuters)

Reuters - New applications for U.S. home loans\climbed last week, as most mortgage rates fell from the\previous week, an industry group said on Wednesday.


Kerry Wins Fans Abroad with Global Warming Plan (Reuters)

Reuters - Democratic presidential hopeful John Kerry\has won plaudits abroad for his promises to fight global\warming but could find his hands tied at home if he wins next\month's U.S. elections.


Wireless Business Helps Lucent Profit

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Lucent Technologies Inc. LU.N, among  the world's largest makers of telecommunications equipment, on  Wednesday said quarterly earnings rose, helped by improvement  in its wireless networks business, which makes base stations  and other products.


Iran Says It's Ready to Prove Not Pursuing Nuke Weapons

TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran is ready to prove to the world it  is not producing atomic weapons provided the West recognizes  the Islamic Republic's right to peaceful nuclear technology,  President Mohammad Khatami said Wednesday.


Shia leader cuts ties with Sadr

A senior Shia leader living in Iran criticises radical Iraqi cleric Moqtada Sadr, calling his anti-US rebellion wrong.


Colgate Profit Falls on Higher Costs

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Colgate-Palmolive Co. CL.N on  Wednesday said profit fell in the third quarter because of  increased marketing spending and higher costs for raw  materials.


Pfizer earnings grow

Pfizer Inc., the world #39;s biggest drugmaker, said Wednesday third-quarter earnings rose on higher sales of key medicines. The New York based company said it earned \$3.


Strong Demand Pushes Honeywell Profit

Diversified manufacturer Honeywell International Inc. (HON.N: Quote, Profile, Research) posted a rise in quarterly profit as strong demand for aerospace equipment and automobile components


Govt tackles Left parties, hikes FDI cap in aviation to 49

New Delhi: The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government on Wednesday hiked foreign direct investment (FDI) limit in the civil aviation sector from 40 to 49 per cent but barred foreign airlines from holding stakes.


Citigroup loses three executives

Three of Citigroup #39;s most senior executives are to leave the Wall Street heavyweight following the closure of its Japanese operations, reports say.


Apple cuts prices and improves products

Apple introduced a range of new machines on Tuesday, as it gears up for the annual christmas shopping season. As part of the launch, it cut the price of its entry-level iBook G4 notebook computer and boosted chip speed across the line.


Rallying Red Sox on Verge of Historic Win

Boston Red Sox can make baseball history on Wednesday by becoming the first team to overturn a three-game deficit in a best-of-seven series.


Beauty of making history irrelevant

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


ONeill not giving up hope

Celtic manager Martin ONeill has faith in his side to come away from the Ukraine with all three points after tonights Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk.


New oldies approach a boon for WCBS-FM

ratings, WCBS-FM (101.1) is convinced that its new, tighter mix of  #39;60s and  #39;70s oldies is the way to go.  quot;As we #39;ve said all along, we don #39;t feel WCBS-FM needs drastic changes, quot; says vice president Chad Brown.


India's Advani confident of a BJP comeback (AFP)

AFP - India's opposition leader and Hindu hardliner Lal Krishna Advani vowed his defeated BJP party would return and launched a blistering attack on the new government.


Blair faces Labour troops revolt

TONY Blair today faced a revolt by Labour MPs over plans to send British troops into danger zones in Iraq. The prime minister was expecting a grilling at Commons question time this afternoon, with 45 Labour


FCC to Seek Internet-Based Phone Oversight (AP)

AP - FCC Chairman Michael Powell said Tuesday that he would seek broad regulatory authority for the federal government over Internet-based telephone services to avoid stifling the emerging market.


Microsoft to Debut 'Istanbul' Application (AP)

AP - Microsoft Corp. introduced on Tuesday a desktop computer application that aims to seamlessly integrate e-mail, instant messaging, video conferencing, traditional phone service and Internet-based calling.


Sony to Add Stores, Worrying Retailers (AP)

AP - Few people took notice when Sony Electronics Inc. opened a tiny storefront last year here at South Coast Plaza, a swanky mall south of Los Angeles. As it turns out, the small store would represent a big change in how Sony sells its televisions, DVD players and other gear.


Sprint beats forecasts on strength of wireless (USATODAY.com)

USATODAY.com - Bolstered by its fast-growing wireless business, Sprint reported solid third-quarter results Tuesday that beat Wall Street's expectations by 3 cents a share. Sprint also took a  #36;3.5 billion charge to write down network equipment that's been rendered obsolete.


Poor nations on front line of operating-system wars (USATODAY.com)

USATODAY.com - Experts say countries from Brazil to Russia to China are shunning Bill Gates' proprietary Windows operating system in favor of open source systems such as Linux, mounting a major challenge to Microsoft's global dominance.


Delta Reports Wider Quarterly Loss (Reuters)

Reuters - Delta Air Lines Inc. , which is\racing to cut costs to avoid bankruptcy, on Wednesday reported\a wider quarterly loss amid soaring fuel prices and weak\domestic airfares.


First Students Expelled Over French Law (AP)

AP - Two Muslim girls who refused to remove their head scarves in class have been expelled from their schools, and two more risked the same fate Wednesday as officials began taking action against those who defy a new French law banning conspicuous religious symbols from public schools.


Terror Leader Said Plotted Spain Attack (AP)

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


Red Sox, Yanks Play for Pennant Tonight (AP)

AP - The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees will play one game tonight for the American League pennant. The Red Sox pulled even in the series last night with a 4-2 win as Boston won its third straight after losing the first three. Derek Lowe (14-12) goes for Boston tonight against either Kevin Brown (10-6) or Javier Vazquez (14-10) for New York. This afternoon, Pete Munro (4-7) pitches for the Houston Astros against Matt Morris (15-10) for the St. Louis Cardinals. The Astros lead that series 3 games to 2.


New Zealand gain lead after Franklin hat-trick (AFP)

AFP - New Zealand rode on fast bowler James Franklin's hat-trick to seize the initiative on the second day of the the opening Test against Bangladesh here.


Stocks Seen Lower; JP Morgan Hits Dow

NEW YORK (Reuters) -  U.S. stock futures weakened on  Wednesday, pointing to a lower market open, as rising oil  prices and a wide-reaching investigation into the insurance  industry soured the mood on Wall Street.


Delta Reports Wider Quarterly Loss

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Delta Air Lines Inc. DAL.N, which is  racing to cut costs to avoid bankruptcy, on Wednesday reported  a wider quarterly loss amid soaring fuel prices and weak  domestic airfares.


United Technologies Profit Rises 13 Pct

BOSTON (Reuters) - Diversified manufacturer United  Technologies Corp. UTX.N posted a 13 percent rise in  quarterly profit on Wednesday and lifted the low end of its  full-year earnings forecast range, helped by strong demand for  Otis elevators and aerospace equipment.


General Dynamics Profit Jumps 23 Percent

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Defense contractor General Dynamics  Corp. GD.N on Wednesday said third-quarter earnings surged 23  percent, led by a big rebound in its aerospace segment.


J.P. Morgan Chase Misses Target

NEW YORK (Reuters) - J.P. Morgan Chase   Co. JPM.N, the  No. 2 U.S. bank, said  on Wednesday profit fell in the third  quarter, missing analyst expectations, as a result of costs  from its July merger with Bank One Corp. and lower fixed-income  revenues.


Wireless Business Helps Lucent Profit

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Lucent Technologies Inc. LU.N, among  the world's largest makers of telecommunications equipment, on  Wednesday said quarterly earnings rose sharply, helped by  improvement in its wireless networks business and lower costs.


Wyeth's Profit Beats Estimates

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Wyeth WYE.N on Wednesday reported a  third-quarter profit that exceeded analysts' estimates,  compared with a loss a year earlier, when it took a large  charge relating to its recalled "fen-phen" diet medicines.


Bank of New York Quarterly Profit Rises

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Bank of New York Co. BK.N, which  operates the oldest U.S. bank, on Wednesday said third-quarter  profit rose, helped by year-over-year growth in securities  servicing fees.


Analyst Says Flyi Could Go Bankrupt

Wall Street puts Independence Air's parent on its bankruptcy watch list after an analyst offered a grim forecast for the local, four-month-old low-cost carrier.


Enron's Lay Gets Two Trials

Former Enron chair Ken Lay has been pressing to be tried on his own. A judge may have just given Lay more than he bargained for, as prosecutors ready for what could be one of the biggest corporate crime prosecutions in history.


Insurance Scandal

Washington Post business columnist Steven Pearlstein talks about his latest column, which examines kickbacks masquerading as commissions or markups.


Lebanon PM Resigns, Says Will Not Head New Govt.

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Prime Minister Rafik al-Hariri  submitted his cabinet's resignation Wednesday and said he would  not form a new government.


Pfizer Posts Higher Earnings on Drug Sales

Pfizer Inc. said Wednesday that third quarter earnings, excluding charges, beat Wall Street expectations by a penny, on strong sales of Lipitor and Celebrex medicines.


GM strike leads to parts shortage

A strike at a General Motors factory in Germany over job cuts starts to affect production at other plants.


Liberia moves against Taylor aides

Liberia imposes economic sanctions on two people with connections to exiled president, Charles Taylor.


US rivals blitz Iowa battleground

US presidential rivals George W Bush and John Kerry will both campaign in Iowa, a key swing state, on Wednesday.


Video shows Madrid attack horror

Video footage of the moment bombs exploded in a Madrid train station is released in Spain.


Pat Symonds explains a key engineering tool: Sector Sensitivities

Race engineers arrive at any circuit armed with facts and figures - Pat Symonds explains what these are for ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix.


Blair challenged on troops move

Tony Blair faces demands for a Commons vote on whether UK forces should provide back-up for the US in Iraq.


Inspired Jimenez opens up two-shot lead

HONG KONG: Spaniard Miguel Angel Jimenez fired a second-round 64 to grab the lead at the halfway stage of the Hong Kong Open yesterday.


J.P. Morgan's Profit Fell 13 Percent

The second-largest U.S. bank blames the loss on merger charges related to Bank One, and its weak investment bank performance.


GM workers on strike against 12,000 job cut

GERMANY - European factories of General Motors Inc. launched a massive strike protesting against the planned major job cuts. The automaker has recently released its plans to reduce the number of jobs by 12


Pfizer Profit Up on Demand for Key Drugs

Pfizer Inc. (PFE.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the world #39;s biggest drugmaker, on Wednesday said third-quarter earnings rose on higher sales of key medicines and favorable foreign exchange factors.


Merger Costs Hit JP Morgan Chase Profit

JP Morgan Chase  amp; Co. (JPM.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the No. 2 US bank, said on Wednesday profit fell in the third quarter, missing analyst expectations, as a result of costs from its July merger with Bank One Corp.


Whirlpool 3Q Profit Falls 4 Percent

Home appliance maker Whirlpool Corp. on Wednesday said third-quarter earnings fell, hurt by raw material cost increases and high oil prices, and guided its annual earnings estimate lower.


FT gets Collins Stewart claim struck out

The Financial Times today won its action to strike out a record 230.5m libel damages claim from City brokers Collins Stewart that could have closed down the pink paper.


India hikes foreign equity cap for aviation:

India News: New Delhi, Oct 20 : The Indian government Wednesday cleared a proposal to hike foreign investment limit in the domestic civil aviation sector to 49 percent from the existing cap of 40 percent.


Business Briefing: Oct. 20

Padcom Inc. has new chief executive officer. Scott A. Stone, the Bethlehem company #39;s chief operating officer since last year, has been named CEO.


Microsoft announces Istanbul LCS client

Microsoft is developing a front-end application for its upcoming Live Communications Server (LCS) 2005 instant messaging server that links LCS 2005 with end-users #39; telephones.


Symbol unveils new  #39;durable #39; handheld device

Symbol Technologies has brought out a durable device designed for mobile workers who dont need a fully ruggedised unit. The MC50 is equipped with integrated wireless Wi-Fi and data-capture options, including


Subscription-based licensing lacking corporate excitement

A new study sponsored by Macrovision, the Software and Information Industry Association, and the Centralized Electronic Licensing User Group has found that there is a discrepancy between where software companies think software licensing is heading and


#39;Cooperative #39; Mutu to start counselling, says agent

Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu is arranging a programme of daily counselling in London after failing a drugs test, his agent said on Wednesday.


PREVIEW-Lazio and Newcastle look for UEFA Cup boosts

Lazio and Newcastle United will look to put a week of setbacks behind them when the two trophy contenders start the UEFA Cup group stage on Thursday.


A view from the Anfield Road

A Liverpool performance lacking in confidence and finishing ability spoilt what otherwise could have been a good result. When the Kop sung out You #39;ll Never Walk Alone as the players ran onto the hallowed turf, it felt like a night of old.


Bucs Trade McCardell To Chargers

Satisfied that wide receiver Joe Jurevicius will be ready to play this week and Joey Galloway may be ready to return after next week #39;s open date, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers decided they can now live without holdout Keenan McCardell.


XM Satellite Radio Signs Baseball Deal

Baseball isn #39;t only coming to Washington, it #39;s also coming to a Washington-based company. XM Satellite Radio Holdings will pay \$59 million a year to broadcast most regular and post-season


Iraq kidnapping prompts CARE suspension

The British-based CARE charity suspended its work in Iraq Wednesday following the kidnapping of its chief of operations by unknown armed militants.


Burma #39;s Power Change Causes Concern About Progress Toward <b>...</b>

The dismissal of Burma #39;s Prime Minister Khin Nyunt is causing concern that it may set back efforts to move the country toward democracy after more than 40 years of military dictatorship.


Charity director kidnapped in Iraq

Insurgents abducted the local director of CARE International from her car in Baghdad yesterday, targeting a charity worker who has championed ordinary Iraqis for decades.


Fight New Labour's <del>Poll</del> #160;Identity Tax

Cash'n'Carrion More campaigning apparel from NO2ID


Oil boosts disappointed Wall Street

New York - US stocks edged higher on Friday. Oil prices fell below \$43 a barrel, helping Wall Street withstand a disappointing jobs creation report.


Intel CEO: Candidates Ignore Tech Debate

Intel Corp.'s chief executive on Tuesday decried the lack of attention by the presidential nominees to how the United States is losing its competitive edge over other nations on education, technological infrastructure and research and development.


Lucent Post 1st Profitable Year Since 2000

Telecommunications equipment maker Lucent Technologies Inc., rebounding from multibillion dollar losses, reported a larger profit for its fourth fiscal quarter and recorded its first profitable year since 2000.


AT T Wireless Posts Lower Profit

\

 NEW YORK (Reuters) - AT T Wireless Services Inc. <AWE.N>\said on Tuesday its third-quarter profit declined as customers\spent less per month, offsetting a rise in net new customers.


Freescale 1000-worker cull to cost \$65m

Savings to be spent caressing customer companies, apparently


Chelsea #39;s Mutu visits Rome shrink

Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu has left London to spend two days in Rome seeing a Football Association psychiatrist. The Evening Standard says 25-year-old has agreed to seek professional help after confessing


Coach: Game a rite of passage

Tennessee offensive lineman Cody Douglas says Phillip Fulmer had a message for his players prior to the Alabama game last season. Last year he told us you #39;re not a man till you #39;ve beaten Alabama, #39; #39; Douglas said.


VOICE MAIL

Your brilliant lead article entitled  #39;Of The Bullet, for the bullet, by the bullet #39; clearly sums up the whole truth about the Veerappan drama.


Security Tightened Around Sharon

Israels Shin Bet security service has tightened protection of the prime minister, MPs and parliament ahead of next weeks crucial vote on a Gaza withdrawal.


Typhoon kills at least 13 in Japan

Typhoon No. 23 is pounding the Japanese archipelago northward, leaving at least 13 people dead asof Wednesday afternoon. Twelve people were missing and more than 100 injured in


Lawmakers request CIA's 9/11 report (Chicago Tribune)

Chicago Tribune - The ranking members of the House Intelligence Committee have asked the CIA to turn over an internal report on whether agency employees should be held accountable for intelligence failures leading up to the Sept. 11 attacks, congressional officials said Tuesday.


Hacker Hits California University Computer

\

 SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - A computer hacker accessed names\and Social Security numbers of about 1.4 million Californians\after breaking into a University of California, Berkeley,\computer system in perhaps the worst attack of its kind ever\suffered by the school, officials said on Tuesday.


Whirlpool Profit Falls as Costs Rise

Appliance maker Whirlpool Corp. (WHR.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Wednesday said quarterly profit was about flat as it was pressured by higher raw material and oil costs.


Decline hits North American birds

The National Audubon Society #39;s State of the Birds report draws on data collected between 1966 and 2003 for 654 American bird species.


Corretja #39;s run ended by Paradorn

MADRID, Spain -- Paradorn Srichaphan earned his first victory against Alex Corretja 7-6, 6-3 to end the popular Spanish wildcard #39;s run at the Madrid Masters.


Israel Military, Religious Leaders at Odds over Gaza Withdrawal

Israel #39;s top military leader blasted some Jewish religious leaders for urging followers to refuse to follow military orders to evacuate settlements, as part of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon #39;s disengagement plans.


Psst...don't tell, but this is Rome (Reuters)

Reuters - Swimming is already out for tourists visiting Rome's Trevi\Fountain, but an Italian woman was surprised to discover so was pointing out the\sights at the landmark made famous by screen diva Anita Ekberg.


Ukrainian President Criticizes Court Order for New Vote

In his first interview since Ukraine held a disputed election, Leonid D. Kuchma blamed the candidates and external pressure.


Costs Rise, Profit Falls at Cingular (Reuters)

Reuters - Mobile service provider Cingular\Wireless, which is buying AT T Wireless Services  Inc. ,\said on Wednesday its third-quarter operating profit fell as\its costs rose.


Children's Place to Buy Disney Stores (Reuters)

Reuters - Children's Place Retail Stores Inc.\ on Wednesday said it will buy Walt Disney Co.'s\ chain of North American retail stores and pledged to\invest  #36;100 million in them.


Stocks to Watch Wednesday

Three top Citigroup executives, including Vice Chairman  Deryck Maughan, are leaving the financial services giant in the  wake of a scandal at its Japanese private banking unit.


Fuel Cost, Low Fares Felt at Northwest

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Northwest Airlines Corp. NWAC.O, the  No. 4 U.S. air carrier, posted a quarterly loss on Wednesday as  high fuel prices and low fares weighed on the industry.


Children's Place to Buy Disney Stores

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Children's Place Retail Stores Inc.  PLCE.O on Wednesday said it will buy Walt Disney Co.'s  DIS.N chain of North American retail stores and pledged to  invest \$100 million in them.


New Zealand ignores nuke differences to woo India (Reuters)

Reuters - New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark sidestepped differences with India over nuclear disarmament on Wednesday and sought to boost business ties between the two countries during a visit to New Delhi.


Honeywell Third-Quarter Profit Up 8 Pct

BOSTON (Reuters) - Diversified manufacturer Honeywell  International Inc. HON.N posted an 8 percent rise in  third-quarter profit on Wednesday as strong demand for  aerospace equipment and car components boosted sales.


Blair Sees More Iraq Violence, No Ruling on Troops

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's Tony Blair forecast an upsurge  in violence in Iraq ahead of planned January elections but said  Wednesday he had not yet decided on a U.S. request for back-up  from UK troops.


XM Satellite Up, Sirius Down Before Bell

NEW YORK (Reuters) - XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.  XMSR.O shares rose nearly 6 percent before the bell on  Wednesday ahead of a news conference the company is holding in  conjunction with Major League Baseball.


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Plasma beam for 90-day Mars visit

Advocates of a propulsion idea for spacecraft claim that it would enable a 90-day round trip to Mars.


XM Satellite Up, Sirius Down Before Bell (Reuters)

Reuters - XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.\ shares rose nearly 6 percent before the bell on\Wednesday ahead of a news conference the company is holding in\conjunction with Major League Baseball.


No decision yet on redeployment of troops in Iraq: Blair (AFP)

AFP - Britain has not yet decided whether to send 650 troops to relieve US forces in Iraq, Prime Minister Tony Blair said Wednesday, while rejecting suggestions that such a move would be aimed at boosting US President George W. Bush's electoral campaign.


Bahraini Activist's Jailing Sparks Protest (AP)

AP - Supporters of a Bahraini human rights worker scuffled with police and shouted slogans against the prime minister outside the court Wednesday as a judge denied bail to the activist, who is being prosecuted after criticizing the Gulf nation's leadership.


Film Down But Kodak Profit Still Rises

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Eastman Kodak Co. EK.N, the world's  top maker of photographic film, said Wednesday its  third-quarter profit rose, helped by the sale of one of its  businesses and growth in its digital business, but declines in  its traditional film segment held back revenue.


Cingular Quarterly Operating Profit Falls

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Mobile service provider Cingular  Wireless, which is buying AT T Wireless Services  Inc. AWE.N,  said on Wednesday third-quarter operating profit fell on merger  expenses and increasing costs for signing up new customers.


MGM Mirage Profit Up on Las Vegas Tourism

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Casino operator MGM Mirage MGG.N on  Wednesday reported higher third-quarter earnings as tourism and  gambling at its Las Vegas resorts boomed.


Opel workers vote to end wildcat strikes

BOCHUM, Germany (AFP) - Workers at the Bochum factory of German car maker Opel voted to return to work after paraylsing assembly lines for six days in protest at plans by Opel #39;s US parent, General Motors, to slash 12,000 jobs in Europe.


Delta posts \$646M loss in Q3

In what could be its final quarterly financial update before filing for Chapter 11, Delta Air Lines Inc. has reported a net loss of \$646 million on \$3.


AirAsia to sell shares and warns fares may rise

KUALA LUMPUR AirAsia said Wednesday that it aimed to raise as much as 864 million ringgit, or \$227 million, in Malaysia #39;s biggest share sale this year and that it might have to lift fares as fuel costs surge.


Regulator vows to ease way for Net phone use

BOSTON The United States #39; top telecommunications regulator plans to protect fledgling Internet telephone services from being taxed and heavily regulated by the 50 state governments.


Several Bird Species #39; Populations Down Sharply, Audubon Society <b>...</b>

There #39;s a reason why Arkansans haven #39;t seen as many meadowlarks in recent years. The National Audubon Society says there aren #39;t as many of the birds around as there once were.


S. Korea Backs UN Meeting on Stem Cell Research

South Korea said on Tuesday it asked the United States to accept another year #39;s delay in the drafting of a divisive treaty banning human cloning to allow time for


Greed gets the better of Bernie

quot;If I did take away Silverstone and a British Grand Prix, I #39;d be seen as a bad guy but that wouldn #39;t bother me. quot; -- Bernie Ecclestone.


Double relief for Ajax as Van Gaal quits

Ajax Amsterdam were doubly relieved on Wednesday following their 3-0 Champions League win over Maccabi Tel Aviv and the resignation of Louis van Gaal as the club #39;s technical director.


NFL notes: Rice officially a Seahawk

The trade that sent the greatest receiver in NFL history from the Oakland Raiders to the Seahawks was formally announced after the league trade deadline passed.


Fueling the fires

Chattanooga businessman Terry Nida has gone to Neyland Stadium in Knoxville to cheer on the University of Alabama football team since 1976.


Video shows Madrid attack horror

Video footage of the moment bombs exploded in a Madrid train station have been shown on Spanish television. The 11 March security camera footage shows people leaving Atocha station after one device has already exploded.


Qanooni says he will accept Afghan vote result

KABUL (AFP) - Incumbent leader Hamid Karzai #39;s chief rival Yunus Qanooni told AFP he would accept the outcome of Afghanistan #39;s presidential election despite his allegations of fraud.


Lebanese PM and cabinet resign

Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri and his cabinet have resigned after weeks of political uncertainty. He submitted the resignation to President Emile Lahoud during a brief meeting at the presidential palace.


US: UN statement on Syria  quot;a step forward quot;

The United States said on Tuesday that the latest United Nations Security Council #39;s statement, which called for the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon, is  quot;a step forward in the Security Council quot;.


MGM Mirage Profit Up on Las Vegas Tourism (Reuters)

Reuters - Casino operator MGM Mirage  on\Wednesday reported higher third-quarter earnings as tourism and\gambling at its Las Vegas resorts boomed.


British public sector deficit swells to record for September (AFP)

AFP - Britain's budget deficit ballooned last month, when the public sector net cash requirement (PSNCR) rose to 10.8 billion pounds (15.5 billion euros, 19.5 billion dollars), the biggest September shortfall on record, official figures showed.


Hungary PM Set for Victory Over Citizenship Vote

BUDAPEST (Reuters) - Hungary's new prime minister looked to  have scored a major victory on Sunday when the opposition  failed to garner enough votes to pass a referendum giving  citizenship to millions of Hungarians abroad.


Aerospace Rebound Good for Gen. Dynamics

Defense contractor General Dynamics Corp. on Wednesday posted a higher third-quarter profit led by a big rebound in its aerospace segment.


Kodak benefits from surge in digital sales and a gain for unit #39;s <b>...</b>

Eastman Kodak Co., boosted by the sale of a remote sensing business and gains in digital photography, recorded a sharply higher profit in the third quarter and beat Wall Street forecasts by a wide margin.


GM's Bochum Staff Vote to Resume Work (Reuters)

Reuters - Workers at a General Motors\plant in Bochum, Germany, swallowed their anger over job cuts\and voted on Wednesday to end a seven-day stoppage that has\disrupted output at three other GM factories.


Digital appliance market heats up over formats

TOKYO - Japanese electronics makers are engaged in a battle for shares of the new markets for digital home appliances, such as next-generation DVDs and cutting-edge television displays, aware that the winners in the initial stages will likely remain


-Posted by dan.farber  6:32 am (PDT)

For Sun CEO Scott McNealy, subscription-based pricing is the most interesting part of Sun s business moving forward. He claims that the model works.


Morris has high stakes in Game 6

ST. LOUIS  A good outing today potentially could have a two-fold effect for Cardinals starter Matt Morris. Not only will he go a long way toward keeping his team alive in the National


Souness: I #39;m the boss

Graeme Souness has emphasised his determination to show his Newcastle players who is in charge after his spat with Craig Bellamy. The pair clashed on the training ground onTuesday over the Welshman #39;s furious


Melbourne, Perth Invited to Apply for Super 14 Rugby Franchise

The Australian Rugby Union invited Melbourne and Perth to bid for the country #39;s fourth Super 12 franchise from 2006 when the annual rugby competition expands to 14 teams.


NEC launches world's fastest supercomputer (AFP)

AFP - Japanese electronics giant NEC Corp, said it has begun selling the world's fastest supercomputer.


Spain: Terror suspect planned devastating attack

MADRID, Spain Spanish authorities say the suspected leader of a Muslim cell plotted to blow up a truck outside the country #39;s National Court in downtown Madrid.


Diaries of another  #39;Anne Frank #39; shed light on camp hell

The newly discovered diary of an 18-year-old Jewish girl has offered a haunting insight into life inside a holocaust-era Dutch prison camp in a find archivists are comparing to the Anne Frank diaries.


Bush Spends Half of  #36;75M Grant in Sept. (AP)

AP - President Bush burned through more than half of his  #36;75 million government grant to cover his general-election campaign costs in September, leaving him with just under  #36;37 million left for the final month before the Nov. 2 election.


Earnings alert: Lucent's 1st profitable year since 2000

Plus: EMC issues sunny report...IBM net income inches higher, despite legal bill...Nokia sees lower profit but strong sales.


Wireless Networks Business Helps Lucent

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Lucent Technologies Inc. LU.N, among  the world's largest makers of telecommunications equipment, on  Wednesday said quarterly earnings rose sharply, helped by  improvement in its wireless networks business and lower costs.


European Powers to Offer Iran Incentives (AP)

AP - Britain, France and Germany will offer Iran nuclear fuel and economic incentives Thursday, giving Tehran one last chance to abandon uranium enrichment and avoid the threat of U.N. Security Council sanctions, diplomats said.


KarstadtQuelle's banks agree to keep credit lines open until year-end (AFP)

AFP - KarstadtQuelle, the troubled German department store operator, said its creditor banks had agreed to meet its liquidity needs until December 31, but had not yet agreed to its request for a three-year-loan of 1.75 billion euros (2.2 billion dollars).


Google Saves Kidnapped Journalist in Iraq\\Google can claim another life saved after a kidnapped Australian journalist was freed by his captors in Iraq earlier today. Freelance journalist John Martinkus was abducted by gunmen on Saturday outside a hotel near the Australian embassy. Apparently Martinkus was able to convince his captors ...


Mbeki Ready to Present Ivory Coast Peace Proposals

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (Reuters) - South African President  Thabo Mbeki said Sunday he was ready to make concrete proposals  to revive a peace process in Ivory Coast after visiting the  rebel-held north of the country on a mediation mission.


Spitzer widens probe into insurance industry sales practices

NEW YORK, October 20 (newratings.com) - The New York Attorney General #39;s Office has widened its investigation into the practices of insurance brokerage fees in the insurance industry, including the practices prevalent among the life and health insurance


Lucent sees first profitable year since 2000

Lucent Technologies #39; quarterly earnings rose sharply, helped by improvement in its wireless networks business and lower costs, the company said Wednesday.


Toshiba preps HD DVD notebook PC

Toshiba will release a notebook PC with an HD DVD drive this time next year, the Japanese company said today, returning fire after an initial salvo from Sony in the battle for the future of blue-laser optical media.


Feds probe huge California data breach

The FBI is investigating the penetration of a university research system that housed sensitive personal data on a staggering 1.4m Californians who participated in a state social program, officials said on Tuesday.


Lg.PHILIPS, LG Electronics Develop World #39;s Largest Organic Led <b>...</b>

SEOUL, Oct 19 Asia Pulse - LG.Philips LCD Co. (KSE:034220), the world #39;s second-largest maker of liquid crystal display (LCD), said Tuesday it has developed the world #39;s largest organic light emitting diode


JBoss moves up to business processes

After a series of announcements last month JBoss has announced JBoss jBPM, their first step into business process management. They have taken the Java Business Process Management project (jBPM), founded by


Botnets trawl for phishing victims

A small number of zombie networks are responsible for all Internet phishing attacks worldwide, according to CipherTrust, the messaging security appliance firm.


US Soldier Pleads Guilty to Iraqi Prisoner Abuse

A US soldier pleaded guilty on Wednesday before a court martial to abusing prisoners in Baghdad #39;s Abu Ghraib prison, including forcing one to masturbate and photographing naked prisoners.


Iran test fires longer-range missile

TEHRAN - Iran said Wednesday it had test fired a more accurate version of its Shahab-3 missile, believed capable of hitting American bases in the Persian Gulf and Israel.


Cambodia #39;s new king returns from China to take up throne

Cambodia #39;s new king, Norodom Sihamoni, returned from China Wednesday to become his country #39;s first new monarch in decades, thanking his people for giving him the honor and promising to  quot;do my utmost #39; #39; to serve them.


Users face new phishing threats

Cyber criminals could soon be mounting sophisticated phishing attacks that are hard to detect warn experts.


Global Markets: Euro Surges vs the Dollar

LONDON (Reuters) - The euro surged to a near 8-month high  against the dollar on growth worries on Wednesday while stock  markets sank as investors dumped metal, technology and  insurance stocks.


General Dynamics Profit Jumps 23 Percent

Defense contractor General Dynamics Corp. (GD.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Wednesday said third-quarter earnings surged 23 percent, led by a big rebound in its aerospace segment.


Brits and Foreigners Are Mad About the Hatter (Reuters)

Reuters - What did Lord Nelson, Princess Diana and\Madonna all have in common apart from popularity?


Lebanon PM Resigns, Says Will Not Head New Govt.

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Prime Minister Rafik al-Hariri  resigned Wednesday after the pro-Syrian president's term was  extended under what lawmakers called pressure from Damascus.


Delta Air Lines Posts a Larger Loss

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Delta Air Lines Inc. DAL.N on  Wednesday reported a wider quarterly loss on soaring fuel  prices and weak domestic airfares, and said time was running  short as it races to cut costs to avoid bankruptcy.


Spyware spurs Dell to offer protective software

The instrusive software accounts for 20 percent of support calls to Dell, an exec tells CNET News.com. That's up from 2 percent in 2003.


Stocks Lower as JP Morgan Weighs on Dow

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks opened lower on Wednesday,  with weaker-than-expected earnings from J.P. Morgan Chase   Co.  JPM.N, and an investigation into the insurance industry among  the factors weighing on Wall Street.


Bush   Kerry Battle It Out In Search

Bush  #038; Kerry Battle It Out In Search\\So if it was up to the search engines to decide who would win the Presidential election, would you agree? Found an interesting press release today that I thought could provide some insight into how our favorite candidates are doing in the search ...


Knee Injury Puts Slutskaya's Preparations on Ice

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Former world champion Irina Slutskaya  has suffered another setback to her preparations for a new  figure skating season after injuring her knee in practice.


ADV: Refinance Rates Just Got Lower

\$150,000 mortgage for only \$550/month. Lower your mortgage - free quotes.


J.P. Morgan Chase Profit Falls 13 Percent

NEW YORK (Reuters) - J.P. Morgan Chase   Co. JPM.N posted  lower third-quarter earnings on Wednesday, missing analyst  expectations, as costs from its July merger with Bank One Corp.  and anemic fixed-income trading revenue hurt profits.


Cambodia's New King Returns From China (AP)

AP - Cambodia's newly selected king returned from China on Wednesday to take up the throne after his father, outgoing monarch Norodom Sihanouk, abdicated earlier this month because of poor health.


U.N.: Peruvians Relying on Food Aid (AP)

AP - Tens of thousands of Peruvians are surviving on international food aid after the harshest weather in decades devastated their harvests, the United Nations said Tuesday.


Wireless contracts aid Lucent's quarterly profit streak

Lucent Technologies Inc. reported higher-than-expected fourth quarter sales on Wednesday, boosted in part by several large contracts, especially in its wireless segment, as well as increased demand for VOIP (voice over Internet Protocol), high-speed data and broadband access.


NEC announces speedy supercomputer

Less than a month after IBM Corp. claimed the world's fastest computer crown from NEC Corp., the Japanese company is trying to win it back with a new supercomputer that will be available from December, it said Wednesday.


Update 8: Oil Prices Up Slightly Ahead of Data

Crude oil prices rose slightly Wednesday, reversing a two-day slide, as the market awaited the US government #39;s weekly petroleum supply report.


Bausch  amp; Lomb #39;s profit jumps 34 percent

Bausch  amp; Lomb Inc., propelled once more by a sharp rise in sales of contact lenses, eye-care drugs and vision-correction surgical products, posted a 34 percent jump in third-quarter


Pfizer #39;s Earnings Rise on Lower Costs, Lipitor Sales (Update1)

Pfizer Inc., the world #39;s largest drugmaker, said third-quarter earnings jumped 49 percent after merger-related expenses fell and sales of the cholesterol treatment Lipitor rose.


UN Predicts Boom In Robot Labor

The use of robots around the home to mow lawns, vacuum floors and manage other chores is set to surge sevenfold by 2007 as more consumers snap up smart machines, the United Nations said.


Celts Chris out to Shak up the points

Chris Sutton has echoed the words of Martin O #39;Neill by saying Celtic will be going all out to win tonight #39;s Champions League meeting against Shakhtar Donetsk.


Benitez on Deportivo draw

But the Reds boss could not argue with the quality of performance from his players, and afterwards claimed that it was the best Liverpool had played under his management.


Disguised cops did Veerappan in

PTI Dharmapuri/Chennai Oct 19: One of the countrys longest and expensive manhunts ended midnight last night with the killing of dreaded forest brigand Koose Munisamy Veerappan and three of his close associates in a shootout in a trap laid by the


Delta Air Lines Posts a Larger Loss

Delta Air Lines Inc. (DAL.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Wednesday reported a wider quarterly loss on soaring fuel prices and weak domestic airfares, and said


UPDATE 1-Huffy files for Chapter 11

Huffy Corp. (HUFC.PK: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Wednesday it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as the bicycle and sporting goods company struggles with mounting losses and a heavy debt load.


Cox Enterprises to buy Cox public stake

Cox Enterprises Inc. on Tuesday said it will purchase Cox Communications Inc.s minority public stake for \$8.3 billion, in a move to privatize the publicly traded cable company and insulate it from the short term demands of Wall Street.


INTERVIEW: DVD Format Winner May Be Set This Yr-Toshiba

TOKYO (Dow Jones)--The battle over the high-definition successor to the current generation of DVDs is escalating with a winner possibly declared within the year, an executive at Toshiba Corp.


Apple peels wraps off fastest ever iBook G4

Apple has unveiled what it claims is its fastest ever iBook G4 laptop, a \$1,499 1.33GHz PowerPC G4 processor-based device sporting a 14in screen and a DVD burner drive.


Army reservist in Iraq pleads guilty in prisoner abuse court <b>...</b>

US Army reservist Staff Sgt. Ivan  #39; #39;Chip #39; #39; Frederick pleaded guilty Wednesday to five charges of abusing Iraqi detainees at Abu Ghraib prison as a two-day court-martial opened at a US base in Baghdad.


Prime minister #39;s questions

Tony Blair kept looking behind him when being challenged over the decision to re-deploy UK troops in Iraq. Was he looking for cheers of support from his backbenchers, or watching for the knives spinning towards his back?


Karzai halfway to victory in Afghan poll, rival to accept result

KABUL - Yunus Qanooni, Hamid Karzais chief rival in Afghanistans presidential election, said Wednesday he will accept the outcome, as Karzai swept the countrys south and southeast en route to outright victory.


Abu Hamza accused of inciting hate and murder

ABU HAMZA AL-MASRI, the radical Muslim cleric, was charged yesterday with 16 offences of encouraging murder, stirring up race hatred and possessing a terrorist document.


Children's Place to Buy Disney Stores

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Children's Place Retail Stores Inc.  PLCE.O said on Wednesday it will buy 313 retail stores from  Walt Disney Co., and its stock rose more than 14 percent in  early morning trade.


U.N.: Robot Use to Surge Sevenfold by 2007 (AP)

AP - The use of robots around the home to mow lawns, vacuum floors and manage other chores is set to surge sevenfold by 2007 as more consumers snap up smart machines, the United Nations said.


Powerful typhoon kills 16 in Japan (AFP)

AFP - The biggest typhoon to hit Japan in more than a decade roared over the country's main island, with heavy rain and fierce winds leaving at least 16 people dead and 12 others missing.


Bicycle Maker Huffy Files for Chapter 11

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Huffy Corp. HUFC.PK filed for Chapter  11 bankruptcy protection Wednesday, as the 76-year-old bicycle  and sporting goods company struggles with mounting losses and a  heavy debt load.


The tide is turning...

Whilst some may claim that the British are staunch allies of the United States (depite being having clearly different agendas on the World Stage), the recent request made to Britain for additional support, namely 600 troops from Black Watch to be moved North to Baghdad to help out the 130,000 US troops who want to move upto Fallujah, is being met by the British Parliament with what we might politely call some   hostility. As the Honourable member for Morecambe and Lunesdale (yes, it is as grim as it sounds), Geraldine Smith asks:    "I'm concerned about the timing. We've been asked by the Americans two weeks before their election to cover for their troops. Is this a ploy to allow Bush not to send more troops? If we made a decision to send troops tomorrow, it looks like we are stepping in to help out the President."


Google rolls out corporate search

Search company Google begins the global roll-out of an enterprise search tool that allows companies to "google" their own networks.


Fuel Costs Contribute to Delta Loss

Delta Air Lines Inc. (DAL), which is racing to cut costs to avoid bankruptcy, on Wednesday reported a wider quarterly loss amid soaring fuel prices and weak domestic airfares.


Rates set to be on hold for rest of year

Bank of England policymakers did not even discuss raising interest rates earlier this month, raising the probability that borrowing costs will remain on


Damages claim against FT  #39;too uncertain #39;

Collins Stewart was seeking damages against the FT on an unprecedented basis when it claimed it should be compensated for the loss in its share price.


Gucci Replaces Chief Executive Santucci

Gucci Group, the luxury goods division of Pinault-Printemps-Redoute SA, said Wednesday that Giacomo Santucci has been replaced as chief executive of the Gucci brand.


Israel Battens Down Hatches for Volatile Gaza Vote (Reuters)

Reuters - Stringent security measures were\being implemented for a parliamentary vote next week on a Gaza\pullout plan expected to spark Jewish settler protests and\heighten death threats against Israeli leader Ariel Sharon.


Red Sox tie up the series

The Boston Red Sox have evened the American League Championship Series at three games apiece by beating the New York Yankees 4-to-2 in game six.


Cardinals reliever Julian Tavarez fined

CBC SPORTS ONLINE - St. Louis Cardinals relief pitcher Julian Tavarez was fined \$10,000 US by the commissioner #39;s office for throwing a fastball over the head of Jeff Bagwell.


How Greece is perceived by the citizens of five major countries

Greece is a safe destination, a modern European Country that organised technically excellent Olympic Games with a human dimension.


Fourth team: players queue up

THE Australian Rugby Union has been swamped with inquiries from high-profile players here and overseas interested in joining the new Super 14 franchise in 2006.


Cowboys Trade

The Dallas Cowboys today traded Antonio Bryant to the Cleveland Browns for Quincy Morgan. Both former second-round picks have shown flashes of being NFL stars.


Khin Nyunts downfall spells new woes for Suu Kyi

BANGKOKThe demise of Myanmar premier Khin Nyunt spells fresh misfortune for detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, her prospects for freedom and the country


Franco-Syrian relations stalled by hostility

PARIS, Oct 20 (AFP) - France #39;s co-sponsorship of a UN resolution ordering Syria to pull its troops out of Lebanon reveals an accumulation of ill will between the two countries, analysts say.


UN says Darfur ceasefire not holding

A ceasefire in Sudan #39;s Darfur region is not holding, with reports of an aerial bombardment and attacks by rebels, the United Nations says.


Karzai Holds Lead Amid Fraud Probe (AP)

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


Stocks Fall on J.P. Morgan Chase and Oil

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks fell on Wednesday as  weaker-than-expected earnings from J.P. Morgan Chase   Co.  JPM.N, the second largest U.S. bank, dampened Wall Street's  mood.


Democratic spirit v. Bush family values: the Latino dilemma in US polls (AFP)

AFP - Like most US Latinos, members of the extended Rodriguez family say they will cast their votes for Democrat John Kerry in next month's presidential polls.


Voiceglo says consumers see the light

Phone service that's available wherever there's a Net connection is approaching 2 million users.


AMD Unveils Its Fastest Desktop Chip

com. Advanced Micro Devices Inc. on Tuesday introduced its fastest desktop processor, heating up competition with rival chip maker Intel Corp.


Toshiba, NEC plan HD DVD notebooks in 2005

TOKYO - Toshiba Corp. and NEC Corp. said they are backing the HD DVD format over the rival Blu-ray Disc scheme, announcing plans here on Wednesday (Oct. 20) to launch new notebook computers in 2005 with HD DVD drives.


Apple Intros New iBook Notebook, G5 Desktop

Just in time for holiday shopping, Apple released on Tuesday a new line of its entry-level iBook notebook computers. The latest version of the iBook line packs more processing power than its predecessors and


Strontium Drug Reduces Fractures in Elderly Women

Spinal and non-spinal fractures are reduced by almost a third in women age 80 or older who take a drug called strontium ranelate, European investigators announced


McCullum makes the difference

The visitors resumed the session with Matthew Sinclair on 73, Jacob Oram on two and the total on 133/4. New Zealand had lost their last three wickets without much gain and needed a partnership to get the innings back on track.


Glazer stockpiles even more United shares

Malcolm Glazer will not make an  quot;imminent quot; bid for Manchester United but it is his  quot;unwavering intention quot; to launch a full takeover offer as soon as he can persuade the club #39;s biggest shareholders to sell, according to a City source.


Mariners to name Mike Hargrove manager

Seattle, WA (Sports Network) - The Seattle Mariners have reportedly found a replacement for Bob Melvin and are scheduled to name Mike Hargrove manager.


Alvin Harrison accepts four-year suspension

He looked me straight in the eye last July at the Olympic Trials for track and field and said,  #39; #39;I #39;m innocent. #39; #39;.


AMD vs Intel

Microsoft #39;s Internet Explorer is taking painful punches from competition it #39;s never before bothered to acknowledge as competition, and now Intel, having abandoned its quest for speed, has Advanced Micro Devices breathing down its neck.


Kudos to Microsoft for Dual-Core Chip Plans

Opinion: The company #39;s decision to keep per-processor licensing for upcoming multicore technology is a win for customers, but of more immediate licensing concern are grid, partitioning and utility computing.


Powell wants VoIP revolution

p2pnet.net News:- The hype around Internet phones may be getting dangerously out of hand, worries Vonage co-founder and VoIP pioneer Jeff Pulver.


O #39;NEILL STILL HARBOURS DREAM

Celtic manager Martin O #39;Neill believes victory in Ukraine would put his side back on course for a place in the Champions League knock-out stages.


Gregan boost for Wallabies

Sydney - George Gregan gave Australian rugby a boost on Wednesday when he confirmed his availability for next month #39;s Wallaby tour to Europe.


Fame then shame for Harrison twins

Throughout their lives the 30-year-old twins Calvin and Alvin Harrison have done almost everything together. They were once homeless and lived together in a Ford Mustang coupe.


Russians seek Hamilton #39;s gold

MOSCOW The Russian Olympic Committee has asked the Court of Arbitration for Sport to strip Tyler Hamilton of his Olympic cycling gold medal and award it to Vyacheslav Ekimov.


US air strikes hit Fallujah, locals claim family of six dead

FALLUJAH, Iraq - US air raids destroyed two buildings said to belong to top militant Abu Mussab al-Zarqawi in the restive Iraqi city of Fallujah on Wednesday where residents claimed a family of six were killed.


Coke to alter sales methods in Europe

BRUSSELS -- Coca-Cola agreed Tuesday to dramatically change the way it sells soft drinks in Europe, ending a five-year investigation into allegations that Coke abused its power to keep rivals out of the market.


Summary: Delta #39;s financial woes deepen

BY THE NUMERS: Delta Air Lines Inc. reported a \$651 million loss in the three months ending Sept. 30, nearly four times its loss compared to a year ago.


Honeywell #39;s 3Q Earnings Up on Sales Growth

Aerospace and high-tech manufacturer Honeywell International Inc. on Wednesday reported an 8 percent increase in third-quarter profits behind double-digit growth in sales


General Dynamics Profit Up 23 Percent

Defense contractor General Dynamics Corp. (GD) on Wednesday said third-quarter earnings surged 23 percent, led by a rebound in its Gulfstream business jet segment.


Rolling a lucky 7: Schilling wills series to an ultimate game

Blood soaked through his sock, but Curt Schilling paid it little attention. He had a game to worry about, and he hadn #39;t even taken the field.


Conservatives call for statement on British Grand Prix

The Conservatives have called for the Sports Minister Richard Caborn to make an urgent statement to the Commons on the future of the British Grand Prix.


A second strike of lightning

The storms are done and the floodwaters have abated, but lightning still struck for the second time at the Bangabandhu National Stadium today, as New Zealand #39;s James Franklin emulated his idol, Wasim Akram, by claiming cricket #39;s equivalent of the hole-in


Baseball #39;s \$650M satellite radio deal

XM Satellite Radio lands 11-year pact to broadcast all major league games starting next season. NEW YORK (Reuters) - XM Satellite Radio announced a \$650 million deal Wednesday with Major League Baseball to broadcast games for 11 years.


Large Explosion Heard in Central Baghdad (AP)

AP - A large explosion shook Baghdad at sunset Wednesday, and a large plume of smoke could be seen rising from the western bank of the Tigris river.


Virtual Vote Lets Non-Americans Pick President (Reuters)

Reuters - Even non-Americans can cast a vote in\the upcoming U.S. presidential election thanks to a Web site\tracking world opinion on the race for the White House.


Challenges await ex-general Yudhoyono as Indonesia #39;s sixth <b>...</b>

JAKARTA, Oct 20 (AFP) - Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono was Wednesday sworn in as Indonesia #39;s sixth president, promising to revive a precarious economy by personally leading a war on endemic graft while also tackling terrorism.


Cabinet of Lebanese PM Rafik Hariri resigns

The office said Hariri would not form the next government. The outgoing prime minister has led Lebanon for most of the time since the end of the civil war in 1990.


Iran says test fired more accurate Shihab-3

Iran said on Wednesday it had conducted tests on a more accurate version of the Shihab-3 missile, which is capable of reaching Israel.


Microsoft, Swatch Offer New Wireless Watches

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp. MSFT.O and watch  maker Swatch UHR.VX  are offering wireless data watches with  faster information updates at lower prices than earlier models,  the companies said on Wednesday.


GM Staff Call Off Work Stoppage at Bochum

BOCHUM, Germany (Reuters) - Workers at a General Motors  plant in Bochum, Germany, swallowed their anger over job cuts  and voted on Wednesday to end a seven-day stoppage that has  disrupted output at three other GM car factories.


Intel to Ship Dual-Core Xeon in 2006

Company denies the chip has been delayed, but many had expected it sooner.


Patriots Place Receiver on Injured Reserve (AP)

AP - The New England Patriots placed rookie wide receiver P.K. Sam on injured reserve Wednesday because of a groin injury.


Microsoft, Swatch Offer New Wireless Watches (Reuters)

Reuters - Microsoft Corp.  and watch\maker Swatch   are offering wireless data watches with\faster information updates at lower prices than earlier models,\the companies said on Wednesday.


Henman Makes It Third Time Lucky in Madrid

MADRID (Reuters) - Top seed Tim Henman finally won a match  at the Madrid Masters Wednesday, producing a classy display to  beat Spain's Albert Costa 6-4, 6-2, and reach the third round.


The missing Middle East: Bush, Kerry sidestep Israeli-Palestinian conflict (AFP)

AFP - Locked in a bitter battle for the US presidency, incumbent President George W. Bush and challenger John Kerry have all but ignored one of the most pressing foreign policy issues of the day: the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.


Cott Q3 profit falls 14, 2004 profit target lowered; makes US <b>...</b>

TORONTO (CP) - Cott Corp. lowered its 2004 profit target Wednesday as it announced a 14 per cent drop in quarterly profits and two small US acquisitions.


Lift for wine producers

Shares in prime takeover target Southcorp jumped after Constellation Brands offered \$US970 million for Californian winemaker Robert Mondavi.


Wholesalers post sixth straight monthly sales increase: StatsCan

OTTAWA (CP) - Wholesale sales grew for the sixth consecutive month in August, Statistics Canada says. Sales were up by 0.7 per cent from July in part because of a surge in sales of machinery and electronic equipment.


Leader: Licensing due for a change

The long-standing tradition of licences - bought per seat and for a given period of time and version - is wearing out its welcome.