Watch Lists Glance (AP)

AP - Other measures related to transportation security, besides expanded use of government watch lists on flights, cruises and at airports, included in the intelligence overhaul legislation:


Venezuelan plane crash kills 16

A military plane crashes in a mountainous area of Venezuela, killing 16 people.


Gold Standard No More

Maybe the reason so many coaches have steered clear of the job at Notre Dame is that they got a look at the people they would be working for, and under what circumstances.


Israeli Soldiers Kill Palestinian Girl

Israeli troops shot and killed a 7-year-old Palestinian girl on Friday after militants fired mortar rounds at a Gaza Strip settlement, injuring four Israelis, one of them a child, officials said.


16 Killed in Venezuelan Plane Crash

A Venezuelan military plane crashed in a mountainous region near Caracas on Friday, killing 16 poeple, including high-ranking officers, a top government official said.


1,400 Colombian Fighters Begin to Disarm

More than a thousand paramilitary fighters began demobilizing Friday in the remote jungles of Colombia, where the main road is marked by crosses, burned vehicles and blown-up bridges - the scars of a protracted and bitter battle between their right-wing faction and leftist rebels for control of the region's cocaine industry.


OPEC to Cut Production After Six-Week Price Decline (Update7)

OPEC, the producer of more than a third of the world #39;s oil, agreed to cut output by about 4 percent in a bid to prop up prices after the biggest drop in three years.


Summary Box: Airbus to Develop New Jet

NEW PLANE: Airbus gets the go-ahead from its owners to start taking orders for the A350, a new mid-sized passenger plane it hopes will be the nemesis of its rival Boeing #39;s 7E7.


Apple Says ITunes Music Store Now Accepts PayPal

Apple Computer Inc. (AAPL.O: Quote, Profile, Research) on Friday said customers of its iTunes online music store can now use eBay Inc.


Greed gone wild

Let #39;s start with two hockey-related news bits most Americans probably aren #39;t aware of. 1) The NHL season still hasn #39;t started, and 2) On Thursday, union leaders made a new collective bargaining proposal to


Delphi to cut 8,500 jobs worldwide

(December 10, 2004) - Delphi Corp. said Friday it plans to cut 8,500 jobs -r 4.6 percent of its total work force  -ldwide next year as part of an ongoing restructuring.


Update 1: Hurricanes Hurt Florida Citrus Crops

Because of hurricane damage, Florida #39;s grapefruit crop this season will be the smallest since the Depression, and its orange crop the worst in 13 years, agriculture officials said in a forecast issued Friday.


UPDATE 1-Bank of America says moves 300 more jobs to Boston

Bank of America Corp. (BAC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , which in September promised to move 100 wealth and investment management jobs to Boston, on Friday said it would move an additional 300 jobs to that city next year.


Gemstar-TV Guide Taps Fox Executive as CEO

Gemstar-TV Guide International Inc. said on Friday it replaced Chief Executive Jeff Shell, credited with steering the company through a patch of legal woes, with a Fox


Space holidays may not be happy

There may not be a happy holiday in space because Russian and American astronauts have been told to ration their food supply for the next few weeks, until a space shipment can reach them.


Yahoo adds fuel to desktop search rush

Yahoo has announced it will join the fray with a new desktop product based on technology from X1 Technologies. Yahoo said it plans to launch a beta version of a new Yahoo Desktop Search tool in the coming


US Supreme Court to hear appeal on music-swapping, copyright

WASHINGTON : The US Supreme Court agreed Friday to hear a case to determine whether music-swapping services can be held liable for copyright infringement if their networks are used for illegal digital copies.


Apple #39;s music store now accepts PayPal

NEW YORK -- Apple Computer Inc. #39;s online music store, iTunes, will now accept PayPal for purchases of music downloads, audiobooks and gift certificates.


New file system has long road to Windows

Microsoft #39;s long-planned new file system is likely still many years away from being a part of the company #39;s server operating system.


Monkeys use tools to forage

LONDON - Wild capuchin monkeys can understand cause and effect well enough to use rocks to dig for food, scientists have found. Capuchin monkeys often use tools and solve problems in captivity and sometimes


Cisco purchase of BCN is par for the course

Cisco Systems #39; acquisition of BCN Systems, a tiny networking software design company, runs true to form as Cisco continues its practice of buying key techn ologies to advance its product development strategy.


SPECTOR: Players #39; offer not quite good enough

Thursday #39;s collective bargaining meeting between the NHL and NHLPA lasted only four hours, but it #39;s still unknown if anything came out of it to save the 2004-05 season.


Valdosta on a roll since loss in opener

The Valdosta State Blazers nearly didn #39;t get to the NCAA Division II national championship game against Pittsburg State in Alabama.


Italian team ordered to play without fans

The Italian team Lazio was ordered Friday to play its next European game without fans as punishment for a game last month marked by racial taunts from the stands.


D-Backs reportedly to sign Russ Ortiz

ANAHEIM, Calif. - The Arizona Diamondbacks continue to make waves in the free agent marketplace, reportedly signing veteran righthander Russ Ortiz on Friday in what could be a precursor to a blockbuster involving Randy Johnson.


AU-sponsored Darfur peace talks postponed to Saturday in Nigeria

Peace talks aimed at ending a 22-month-old crisis in Sudan #39;s troubled Darfur region, scheduled for Friday in Nigerian capital Abuja, has been postponed for a day, a spokesman for the African Union said.


Russia glad if Ukraine joins EU: Putin

Russia  quot;would only be too glad quot; if Ukraine joined the European Union (EU), Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, the Interfax reported.


Oracle Moves Earnings Forward to Dec. 13 (Reuters)

Reuters - Business software maker Oracle\Corp.  on Friday said it had decided to move forward\the release date of its fiscal second-quarter earnings to\Monday, Dec. 13 before markets open instead of Thursday, Dec.\16.


Forsee: Sprint CEO Eyed As Likely Leader If Nextel Deal Inked

Haute monde meets mass market. Friday saw Sprint (nyse: FON - news - people ) shares open higher and Nextel Communications (nasdaq: NXTL - news - people ) slide as the market digested news of a possible merger between the telecommunications firms.


America West: Will Not Bid for ATA

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


Hurricane damage to Fla. citrus crop even worse than expected

Floridas hurricane-damaged citrus crops will be even smaller than originally estimated, officials said Friday, raising the specter of higher prices for orange juice and an even greater scarcity of grapefruit juice.


Halo 2, San Andreas key drivers of Nov. revenue, say NPD stats

Absent sales from the killer titles published by Microsoft and Rockstar, November sales would have dropped more than 20 percent. With the two, revenues rose 11 percent.


Community Bancorp Soars in IPO Debut

Four new stocks shot out of the starting gates Friday and posted upbeat opening-day gains, riding investor momentum spurred by stronger-than-expected pricings from two initial public offerings while two others came in at the top of expectations.


PeopleSoft scores analyst support

LOS ANGELES (CBS.MW) -- PeopleSoft Inc., whose board has spurned repeated hostile takeover offers from Oracle Corp,. got a major boost Thursday when several analysts raised their PeopleSoft financial forecasts.


Napster to sell mobile ringtones

Los Angeles-based music downloading service Napster has partnered with another company to sell mobile phone ringtones, ITObserver.


Apple #39;s iTunes connects to PayPal

Customers at online music store will be able to use eBay #39;s payment service to pay for songs. SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Apple Computer Inc.


School #39;s out to shun IE

Citing security risks, a state university is urging students to drop Internet Explorer in favor of alternative Web browsers such as Firefox and Safari.


Cisco expands router offerings with BCN buy

Cisco Systems today confirmed that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire privately held BCN Systems, a Californian networking software design firm.


Microsoft Contests Patent Decision

Microsoft is in court today contesting a Federal Court ruling in favour of Eolas for \$565 million. The court upheld a lower court ruling that Microsoft #39;s popular Internet Exporer browser infringed on patents


Allenby predicts Masters surge

Defending champion Robert Allenby is confident of quickly bridging the gap between himself and tournament leader Bradley Hughes in today #39;s third round of the Australian Masters at Huntingdale in Melbourne.


Mavericks Defeat Bucks 123-104 (AP)

AP - Dirk Nowitzki scored 39 points and Josh Howard scored 11 of his 25 in the fourth quarter in the Dallas Mavericks' 123-104 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday night.


New BALCO hit: Collins banned 8 years

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Sprinter Michelle Collins was suspended for eight years for a doping violation linked to the BALCO scandal and will forfeit results that include 2003 indoor world and US titles in the 200 meters.


Ives Galarcep

Like James Dean #39;s character in Rebel Without a Cause, Clint Mathis seems to find trouble wherever he goes. The enigmatic former MetroStar and current Hannover 96 striker only needed a year to wear out his


Blast in Quetta market kills 10

ISLAMABAD, DECEMBER 10: At least 10 people, including a soldier, were killed when a bomb exploded near an Army truck in a busy market area in the Pakistani city of Quetta today.


Japan to Ease Weapons Export Ban, Revamps Military (Update2)

Japan #39;s government will ease a four- decade ban on weapons exports, opening up new markets for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.


Chaos looms in Darfur as violence increases: Annan

Chaos is looming in Sudan #39;s western Darfur region as violence increases, order collapses, and the number of desperate people in need of humanitarian aid reaches nearly 2.3 million, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan said in a report to


Turkish Leader Calls for EU Membership Talks

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is in Brussels to make a final pitch before next week #39;s EU summit for the 25-nation bloc to set a date for his country to begin membership talks.


Sony Prepares For PSP Launch

Japan is preparing for the long-awaited launch of Sony #39;s answer to the Nintendo DS, the PSP. The target for the PSP launch is this coming Sunday.


Browser Flaw Leaves Online Shoppers Open to Phishing Scam

Security firm Secunia reported that the vulnerability affects nearly all browsers, including Internet Explorer, Mozilla, Firefox, Konqueror, Opera, Netscape and Safari.


Dusty discs girdle distant solar systems

Cold, dusty discs of debris have been clearly detected around stars in other planet-harbouring solar systems for the first time by NASA #39;s Spitzer Space Telescope.


Drunken British soldier leaves party in suicide bomber costume; prompts alert (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - LONDON (AP) - A drunken soldier sparked a security alert when he left a costume party dressed as a suicide bomber, wearing a turban, false beard and a combat jacket stuffed with pretend explosives, British police said Friday.


Consumers Cheer Up, Budget Deficit Swells

CHICAGO (Reuters) - U.S. consumers' mood brightened in  early December, which may bode well for retailers in the key  holiday shopping season, a survey showed on Friday.


Sprint in Talks to Buy Nextel for \$36 Bln

PHILADELPHIA/NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sprint Corp. is in  advanced talks to buy Nextel Communications Inc. for more than  \$36 billion in a mostly stock deal that would combine the No. 3  and No. 5 U.S. wireless service carriers, sources familiar with  the situation said on Friday.


Stocks Down Slightly; Economic Data Mixed

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stocks ended slightly lower on  Friday as a higher-than-expected jump in U.S. producer prices  helped to offset a fall in oil prices and dividend hikes from  General Electric Co. GE.N and SBC Communications SBC.N.


AP: Rehnquist Plans to Swear in Bush (AP)

AP - Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist, suffering from thyroid cancer, still plans to preside at President Bush's inauguration on Jan. 20, The Associated Press has learned.


Dollar Holds on to Gains with Fed in View

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The dollar posted broad gains on  Friday for the third straight session, as traders took more   year-end profits in other currencies in anticipation of higher  U.S. interest rates after next week's Federal Reserve meeting.


Airbus A350 Unleashes New War with Boeing

PARIS (Reuters) - European planemaker Airbus won approval  from its shareholders on Friday to unleash a fresh marketing  battle against arch-rival Boeing by seeking orders for a  fuel-saving, wide-body jet to be called the A350.


Supreme Court to Decide Grokster Case (Reuters)

Reuters - The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday\agreed to consider whether Internet file-trading networks\should be held responsible when their users copy music, movies\and other protected works without permission.


Venezuelan Military Plane Crashes, 16 Killed

CARACAS, Venezuela, Dec 10 (Reuters) - A Venezuelan  military aircraft crashed into a mountainside west of Caracas  on Friday, killing 16 passengers and crew-members aboard  including several senior officers, authorities said.


Oil Prices Fall Despite OPEC Output Cut

Oil prices fell to four-month lows on Friday even though the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries moved to curb production above its official 27 million barrel-per-day output ceiling.


Shrek 3 Postponed Until 2007, James Brown Has Cancer, Kidman Out <b>...</b>

com Staff. DreamWorks Animation Studios announced it was pushing the release date for its highly anticipated feature Shrek 3 from November 2006 to May 2007.


White Has Chance to Make Heisman History (AP)

AP - Archie Griffin wouldn't mind sharing his claim to fame. The former Ohio State tailback is the only player to win two Heisman trophies, receiving his second in 1975.


iTunes now accepting Paypal payment

Today, both Apple and Paypal have announced that the iTunes music store in the US will now accept Paypal purchases for anything on iTunes.


Deep, faint tremors in central California fascinate, worry <b>...</b>

Deep beneath the San Andreas Fault in central California, the ground has been erupting in strange, faint tremors that last up to 20 minutes, scientists reported Thursday.


Syria to Offer Iraqi Expat Polling Sites (AP)

AP - Iraqi expatriates in Syria will have the opportunity to vote in this month's Iraqi elections under an agreement signed Sunday between the Syrian government and the Geneva-based International Organization for Migration.


Vick more comfortable with Crumpler

Is it possible to win a playoff spot, in this era of aerial supremacy, without a single wide receiver posting 40 catches for the season?


Bush Unlikely Heisman Trophy Finalist (AP)

AP - In some ways, Reggie Bush is the most unlikely Heisman Trophy finalist. He doesn't start for No. 1 Southern California, and ranks second on the team in rushing and receiving. He's a sophomore, and the previous winners have all been juniors or seniors. Finally, he's often been overshadowed by teammate Matt Leinart, also a finalist for the award.


Faruk talks to wife, brother after release

Bangladeshi truck driver Abul Kashem Faruk, who was freed by Islamic Army of Iraq (IAI) Thursday, talked to his family over telephone and the government confirmed his release yesterday.


Russian defense chief reserves right to conduct preemptive strikes

Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov on Friday emphasized Russias right to conduct preventive strikes against terrorists anywhere across the globe, suggesting it has become common


Venezuelan plane crash kills 16

quot;There were 16 people travelling aboard. ... It crashed into a mountain, quot; Col. Antonio Rivero, head of the Civil Protection service, told.


Putin approves of Ukraine #39;s membership in EU

RBC, 10.12.2004, Moscow 19:51:19.Russian President Vladimir Putin approves of the possibility of Ukraine joining the European Union.


Italian Team Ordered to Play Without Fans (AP)

AP - The Italian team Lazio was ordered Friday to play its next European game without fans as punishment for a game last month marked by racial taunts from the stands.


Business ; Chinese Inflation Drops Sharply

Business News, BEIJING, China #39;s annual inflation rate dropped sharply in November, providing further evidence that steps to cool the economy are working and reducing the chances in the near term of a fresh rise in interest rates.


Cut From Longhorn, WinFS Is in Peril

The Windows Future Storage (WinFS) technology that got cut out of Windows  quot;Longhorn quot; is in serious trouble, and not just the hot water a feature might encounter for missing its intended production vehicle.


quot;I can take his punches quot; - Williams

By Ant Evans in Las Vegas( pic by Mr Will/Hogan Photos): WBC heavyweight title challenger Danny Williams insists he #39;s completely unperturbed by champion Vitali Klitschko #39;s well-hyped punching power on the eve of their Mandalay Bay collision here Saturday


Q amp;A with Metros GM Nick Sakiewicz

com Staff. Following Friday #39;s trade involving the MetroStars and San Jose Earthquakes for defender Jeff Agoos, Metros general maanger Nick Sakiewicz took time to answer questions regarding his newest acquisition.


Cyprus warns it could veto Turkey #39;s EU talks

NICOSIA: Cyprus has upped the ante in its demands for recognition from Turkey, warning its European Union partners it may otherwise veto the start of accession talks with Ankara, local newspapers reported.


World ; Russia defends anti-terror preventive strikes

quot;Russia is not the only country that has announced the possibility of using or carrying out preventive strikes. I would like to stress that we did not invent it, quot; he added, hinting that Moscow was following a US lead.


Shiite Group Reveals Some Iraq Candidates (AP)

AP - Iraq's future political landscape began to take shape Friday, as a coalition led by powerful Shiite Muslim groups revealed a few of its candidates in next month's parliamentary election. They include former exiles, a prominent cleric and members of the interim government.


U.S. Gives OK to China Furniture Duties (Reuters)

Reuters - A U.S. trade panel on Friday\approved anti-dumping duties of up to 198 percent on  #36;1.2\billion worth of wooden bedroom furniture from China. However,\many Chinese furniture companies will escape the highest duty\levels.


High Court to Hear File-Sharing Dispute (AP)

AP - The Supreme Court said Friday it will consider whether Internet file-sharing services are responsible for their customers illegally swapping songs and movies, a multibillion-dollar case testing the limits of copyright law in the digital age.


Portugal faces general election

Portuguese President Jorge Sampaio calls an early general election to end "crisis of credibility".


Randall Wins ACC Honor

Bryan Randall, who led a team picked sixth in the preseason to the title,is named The Associated Press ACC player of the year.


US Jet Flight to Vietnam Makes History

United Airlines became the first US carrier to fly to Vietnam since the war ended nearly 30 years ago, marking a new milestone in relations between the former enemies as VIPs on board were greeted at the airport with lotus blossoms and silk lanterns.


General Electric raises dividend, announces plans to buy back <b>...</b>

General Electric Co. raised its quarterly dividend by 10 per cent and launched a plan to buy back up to \$15 billion US in shares over three years, as it projected double-digit percentage earnings growth for 2005.


Diamondbacks Sign Pitcher Russ Ortiz (AP)

AP - The Arizona Diamondbacks kept busy Friday, signing free-agent pitcher Russ Ortiz to a four-year deal a day after agreeing to terms with third baseman Troy Glaus.


Oil Slumps Below \$41, Dealers Shrug OPEC Cut

Oil prices settled under \$41 for the first time since July Friday as dealers took profits on a widely expected move by the OPEC cartel to curb production in excess of its official output ceiling.


Sprint in Talks to Buy Nextel for \$36 Bln

PHILADELPHIA/NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sprint Corp. is close to  an agreement buy Nextel Communications Inc. for more than \$36  billion in a mostly stock deal that would combine the No. 3 and  No. 5 U.S. wireless telephone companies, sources familiar with  the situation said on Friday.


Apple: ITunes Music Store Accepts PayPal

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Apple Computer Inc. AAPL.O on  Friday said customers of its iTunes online music store can now  use eBay Inc.'s EBAY.O online payment service PayPal to buy  songs and audio books, becoming the second major online music  store to do so.


High Court To Decide File-Sharing Case

NEW YORK - Who should be held responsible for the use of peer-to-peer software program to trade copyright music and video files on the Internet?


Airbus steps up challenge to Boeing #39;s 7E7

PARIS Airbus announced Friday that it would move ahead with two new long-range versions of its widebody A330 aircraft to cobble together a competitor for Boeing #39;s planned new 7E7.


Update 1: Southwest Offers \$100M for ATA Assets

The bidding war for bankrupt ATA Airlines #39; assets heated up on Friday when Southwest Airlines offered at least \$100 million in cash and loans for gates at Chicago #39;s Midway Airport and an alliance with ATA, its main rival there.


Bank of America to move 300 jobs to Boston

Bank of America plans to move an additional 300 jobs from its Wealth and Investment Management businesses to Boston. The bank was sharply criticized after it cut jobs at former Fleet branches in Massachusetts.


Giants' Barber Leads NFL in Total Yards (AP)

AP - Tiki Barber won the NFL yards from scrimmage title and set the New York Giants' all-time rushing record in Sunday night's game against the Dallas Cowboys.


GE to Buy Back \$15 Bln in Stock, Raise Dividend (Update4)

General Electric Co., the world #39;s biggest company by market value, will buy back as much as \$15 billion in stock and raise its dividend as Chief Executive Jeffrey Immelt #39;s growth strategy generates more cash and profit.


Napster To Enter Mobile Ringtone Arena

Thanks two a partnership with Dwango Wireless; the new Napster is prepared to enter the mobile technology realm. But this time, it #39;s not for illegal mp3s.


Kazaa Talked to Record Firms About Music Swaps

Kazaa, the world #39;s most popular Internet file-swapping system, told a court on Thursday it was worried about users exchanging unauthorized files and held talks with record companies in the United States about the problem.


Oklahoma #39;s Jason White Wins Maxwell Award

Oklahoma quarterback Jason White has taken home the Maxwell Award as college football #39;s best all-around player and won his second straight Davey O #39;Brien quarterback trophy.


Suns Place Voskuhl On IL

Phoenix, AZ -- The Phoenix Suns Friday placed Jake Voskuhl on the injured list after the center had an emergency appendectomy surgery.


Magic #39;s Garrity Activated From Injured List

Oakland, CA -- The Orlando Magic activated forward Pat Garrity from the injured list on Friday and placed forward Brandon Hunter on the IL with a hyperextended right elbow.


Nobel Peace laureate calls for a greener tomorrow

OSLO - Kenyan ecologist Wangari Maathai, who yesterday received the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize at a ceremony in Oslo, said protecting the environment was vital to promote peace and democracy.


UN: New Darfur displacements reported

UN humanitarian agencies report thousands of people displaced for the second time in a month because of fresh outbreaks of fighting in Sudan #39;s Darfur region.


Turkish Leader Wins EU Officials' Backing (AP)

AP - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's drive to get his country into the European Union won strong backing from top EU officials Friday, a week before the bloc's leaders decide whether to open membership talks.


Some of Leaders in United Iraqi Alliance (AP)

AP - Some of the main leaders in the United Iraqi Alliance:


U.S. Money Helped Opposition in Ukraine (AP)

AP - The Bush administration has spent more than  #36;65 million in the past two years to aid political organizations in Ukraine, paying to bring opposition leader Viktor Yushchenko to meet U.S. leaders and helping to underwrite exit polls indicating he won last month's disputed runoff election.


US Supreme Court to hear appeal on music-swapping, copyright (AFP)

AFP - The US Supreme Court agreed to hear a case on whether music-swapping services can be held liable for copyright infringement if their networks are used for illegal digital copies.


Yushchenko in hospital for tests

Ukraine's presidential candidate Viktor Yushchenko is having tests in Austria into his mystery illness.


Sources: Sprint, Nextel closing in on \$36B deal

DECEMBER 10, 2004 (REUTERS) - Sprint Corp. is in advanced talks to buy Nextel Communications Inc. for more than \$36 billion in a mostly stock deal that would combine the No.


Mobile phone users double since 2000

A report out yesterday from the International Telecommunication Union says that mobile phone users have doubled since the year 2000.


UPDATE 2-Bank of America says moves 300 more jobs to Boston

Bank of America Corp. (BAC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , which suffered bad publicity over layoffs at former Fleet branches, on Friday said it will move an additional 300 jobs to Boston next year.


Bristol-Myers to Seek Over-The-Counter OK

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. said Friday that it plans to pursue Food and Drug Administration approval to sell an over-the-counter version of its cholesterol-lowering drug, Pravachol.


Update 2: Winn-Dixie Forces Out CEO Frank Lazaran

Supermarket giant Winn-Dixie Stores Inc., struggling against competition from Wal-Mart and other grocery chains, named a new president and chief executive officer Friday, forcing out its previous leader after less than 18 months on the job.


Video Gamer Makers Undeterred by Mixed Sales Data

Shares of the leading video game software publishers traded higher Friday despite mixed November sales. US sales of console games -- those made for Sony #39;s (SNE:NYSE - news - research) PlayStation 2, Microsoft #39;s


Shell: Gemstar-TV Guide Replaces CEO With Battista, Reportedly <b>...</b>

Switching channels. Jeff Shell is out and Rich Battista is in as chief executive at Gemstar-TV Guide International (nasdaq: GMST - news - people ). According to the Los Angeles Times, Shell is resigning to


Search companies vye for the desktop

All the major Web portals seem to be rushing delivery on one product this holiday: desktop search software. Microsoft plans to introduce a test version of its desktop search application in the coming days, meeting its stated deadline by a nose.


Access to Kazaa Not Blockable?

That #39;s what Philip Morle told an Australian court, and he ought to know--he #39;s Sharman Networks #39; chief technology officer.


JBoss aims high with Enterprise Middleware System

DECEMBER 10, 2004 (IDG NEWS SERVICE) - Open-source vendor JBoss Inc. on Monday plans to formally announce a stack of middleware software designed to make it more competitive with the sophisticated products sold by companies like IBM, BEA Systems Inc.


A gentleman and a boxer

There was a time when knocking out Mike Tyson was boxing #39;s equivalent to beating Ken Jennings at Final Jeopardy. It was the most Heruculean of labors and when it finally happened, it was an international event


Suns place Voskuhl on IL

Phoenix, AZ (Sports Network) - The Phoenix Suns Friday placed Jake Voskuhl on the injured list after the center had an emergency appendectomy surgery.


Magic #39;s Garrity activated from injured list

Oakland, CA (Sports Network) - The Orlando Magic activated forward Pat Garrity from the injured list on Friday and placed forward Brandon Hunter on the IL with a hyperextended right elbow.


Arizona Man to Drop Mike Tyson Car-Beating Charges

An Arizona man who claims his car was attacked by Mike Tyson, said on Friday he will drop his criminal complaint against the ex-heavyweight champion for damaging the vehicle outside a local nightspot.


Turkish leader wins EU officials #39; backing

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan #39;s drive to get his country into the European Union won strong backing from top EU officials Friday, a week before the bloc #39;s leaders decide whether to open membership talks.


US Soldier Pleads Guilty to Murdering Iraqi Youth

A US soldier has pleaded guilty to murdering a wounded 16-year-old Iraqi boy. Staff Sergeant Johnny Horne was convicted Friday of the unpremeditated murder


Next step towards military  #39;normality #39;

APART from the decision to relax the 1976 military exports embargo, Japan #39;s National Defence Program Outline is not a revolutionary document.


PayPal and Apple iTunes link-up

Payment system Paypal announces a tie-up with Apple's iTunes as it continues to secure new business with online retailers.


Safety Regulators Want Recall of Durango, Dakota Trucks

Federal safety regulators and DaimlerChrysler are sparring over a problem with Dodge Durango and Dakota trucks. The government believes the defect could lead to wheels falling off and wants a recall, but the company says the problem isn't that serious.


Vodafone faces US lockout if Sprint merges

VODAFONE faces losing its last opportunity to gain an independent foothold in the US as the bidding war for Sprint, Americas top US mobile operator, heats up.


First US flight in 30 years is good morning for Vietnam

THE first commercial flight between the United States and Vietnam since their war 30 years ago landed yesterday to open a new chapter of cultural and economic exchange between the former foes.


US and EU trade war to flare up again as Airbus takes on Boeing

ROBERT ZOELLICK, the United States Trade representative, suggested last night that talks to settle the EU-US trade dispute surrounding subsidies paid to Boeing and


So who ate all the pies in space?

IN SPACE no one can hear you raid the fridge. So the astronauts on the International Space Station orbiting the Earth have found that, despite careful calorie counting, they are running out of food.


Diamondbacks stay active by signing Ortiz

The Arizona Diamondbacks kept busy Friday, signing free-agent pitcher Russ Ortiz to a four-year deal a day after agreeing to terms with third baseman Troy Glaus.


Landmark eight-year ban for US sprinter

MICHELLE COLLINS, of the United States, the former world indoor 200 metres champion, was suspended for eight years yesterday for drug abuse in a landmark ruling in the fight against doping.


New York bid for Olympic gold tarnished by battle of the titans

NEW YORKS rush to build an Olympic stadium has provoked a clash between the citys billionaire mayor and a multimillionaire cable television tycoon that has thrown the Big Apples bid for the 2012 Games into jeopardy.


McGrady puts on finish for the ages against Spurs

Tracy McGrady needed only 35 seconds to turn a sure loss into an improbable win and a listless 20-point night into one of the league #39;s most memorable clutch performances.


You know the Bears got jobbed when Pac-10 rivals come to their <b>...</b>

quot;Looks like you were right on about Cal getting passed over for the Rose Bowl bid. I don #39;t think it would have made a bit of difference if Cal had won by 110 points instead of just 10.


Britain welcomes Kufuor victory in Ghana (AFP)

AFP - Britain congratulated Ghanaian President John Kufuor on his election victory, and praised the west African state for holding free, fair and transparent elections.


Berlusconi cleared of corruption

A TRIUMPHANT Silvio Berlusconi hailed his acquittal on corruption charges by a Milan court yesterday, saying he had never doubted he would be cleared.


Bush to Focus on Tort Reform at Forum (AP)

AP - President Bush's main focus during a White House economic conference next week will be big damage awards in lawsuits and the federal deficit, the White House said Friday.


Colombian rebels hand over guns

More than 1,400 Colombian paramilitaries hand over their weapons to the country's government.


Two Small SUVs Earn Good Rating In Crash Tests

The Insurance Institute For Highway Safety has released new side-impact crash test results for small sport utility vehicles. The 2005 Honda CRV earned a good rating along with the 2005 Ford Escape.


Muglia Updates Windows Server Roadmap

In a press tour on Friday, Microsoft senior vice president for Windows Server Bob Muglia updated the Windows Server release schedule for next year.


Hoyer Applauds Decision to Save Hubble

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Steny Hoyer released the following statement today applauding the National Academy of Sciences National Research Council recommendation to launch a space shuttle mission to save the Hubble Space Telescope.


Some of baseball #39;s biggest names available

Christmas time in southern California is strange. Charlie Brown #39;s tree here is a palm. And as the Baseball Winter Meetings opened


Linfield College QB Nears NCAA TD Mark (AP)

AP - Brett Elliott started eight games for Utah before breaking his wrist early last season.


US ex-financier jailed for fraud

Martin Frankel,  who defrauded insurance companies out of more than \$200m is jailed for 16 years


Stocks Dip as Dollar Rises and Oil Drops (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. stocks inched lower on Friday but\fresh economic data drove the dollar and bonds higher, while\profit-taking pushed oil prices down after OPEC'S widely\expected decision to curb production.


Sprinter Suspended

Sprinter Michelle Collins is suspended for eight years for a doping violation linked to the BALCO scandal.


Rangers Sign Hidalgo

Wanting another bat to support their young players, the Rangers agree to a \$5 million, one-year contract with Richard Hidalgo.


Business News for Technology Leaders

Delphi #39;s global production volumes and commodity price increases are expected to translate to Q4 revenue of \$6.9-\$7 billion, about \$200 million below the company #39;s previously stated expectations.


Oracle Moves Earnings Forward to Monday

Business software maker Oracle Corp. on Friday said it will release its second-quarter earnings before US markets open on Monday, instead of Thursday, due to issues related to its takeover bid for PeopleSoft Inc.


Salvation Army bell ringers hushed

Maybe you #39;ve noticed already this holiday season - Salvation Army bell ringers are not standing in front of as many stores as they did last year.


Windows Server  #39;R2 #39; Goes to 1,000 Beta Testers

Microsoft quietly delivered a first private beta release of Windows Server  quot;R2 quot; to the first of about 1,000 testers Wednesday, company officials confirmed Friday.


Users Still Snookered By Spam

falling repeatedly for spam scams that promise software at fire sale prices. In fact, one in five consumers surveyed bought software


Tremors Under San Andreas Studied

The faint tremors, which were detected beneath the town of Cholame, are similar to those discovered in the past two years in Japan and the Pacific Northwest.


Tiger and Monty in the lead

Colin Montgomerie walked off the 18th green in a tie for the lead with Tiger Woods at the Target World Challenge, and someone told him the tournament was in his hands.


Wenger refuses to go on lookout for replacement

ALTHOUGH the world and his wife might be telling him otherwise, Arsne Wenger prefers to back his own judgment, thank you very much.


Pacers players, fans charged in Detroit NBA fight

This is not original reporting. All facts have been gathered from ESPN, the Associated Press, Fox Sports Net, The Indianapolis Star, and The Washington Post.


Diamondbacks add free-agent Ortiz

CBC SPORTS ONLINE - After adding slugging third baseman Troy Glaus at baseball #39;s winter meetings, the Arizona Diamondbacks have turned their attention to pitching.


Hidalgo agrees to \$5 million, one-year contract with Texas

ANAHEIM, Calif. The Texas Rangers today reached a one-year, five (M) million dollar contract with right fielder Richard Hidalgo. Hidalgo split last season between the Houston Astros and the New York Mets.


Search for Thai Tsunami Dead Narrows to Hard Hit Areas (Reuters)

Reuters - Teams searching for bodies in\tsunami-devastated Thailand zeroed in on the hardest hit areas\on Monday, as Thai and Japanese navy ships scoured the seas for\more dead.


Dodge Durango, Dakota Trucks Recalled

Bowing to pressure from federal safety regulators, DaimlerChrysler AG is recalling 600,000 Dodge Durango SUVs Dakota pickup trucks because of a defect that can cause their wheels to fall off.


Defense policy overhauled to meet new global threats

The government announced Friday plans to conduct a sweeping overhaul of its defense policy, adjusting Japan #39;s armed forces to better handle new threats such as terrorism and giving them a greater global role.


US soldier pleads guilty to killing

A US soldier pleaded guilty at a court martial yesterday to killing a severely wounded 16-year-old Iraqi boy during fighting in Baghdad #39;s Sadr City district.


Britains HHG sells life services arm for 1bil

MELBOURNE: Britains HHG Plc has agreed to sell its life insurance business for 1.025bil to Life Company Investor Group, and plans to return 875mil of the proceeds to shareholders.


Disney to support Blu-Ray

Disney announced yesterday that it will support Blu-Ray as its choice for the next generation optical format, instead of the HD-DVD.


Yahoo Plans Desktop Search To Compete With Google, Microsoft

Yahoo Inc. plans to release in January the beta version of a desktop search application, as the giant web portal looks to catch Google Inc.


Manchester City vs. Tottenham

Nicolas Anelka is fit for Manchester City #39;s Premiership encounter against Tottenham at Eastlands, but the 13million striker will have to be content with a place on the bench.


Militants Claim Responsibility for Bomb Blast in Pakistan

Militant nationalists have claimed responsibility for a bomb blast in southwestern Pakistan that killed at least 11 people Friday.


The joys of traveling with a heavy suitcase

NEW YORK The holiday season is an especially busy time for global travelers intent on delivering gifts to friends and relatives from faraway places.


How the Airbus A350 and the Boeing 7E7 stack up

Seating: The two versions of the A350 would seat between 245 and 285 passengers in a typical three-class configuration. Boeing #39;s 7E7 Dreamliner #39;s three models will accommodate between 217 and 289 passengers.


Xstrata threatens to pull offer

Xstrata yesterday threatened to withdraw its hostile 2.9 billion takeover offer for WMC if the Australian miner indicated it would dilute value by paying out up to A\$1 billion in cash to shareholders.


'BitTorrent' Gives Hollywood a Headache (AP)

AP - Bram Cohen didn't set out to upset Hollywood movie studios. But his innovative online file-sharing software, BitTorrent, has grown into a piracy problem the film industry is struggling to handle.


Mobile Gadgets Measure Meals on the Go (AP)

AP - The most popular dieting brands are now weighing in with calorie counters and nutritional guides designed for personal digital assistants and combination PDA-mobile phones. Just in time for the season of bountiful temptation.


Time for Williams to check his ego into a penthouse suite

In a hotel suite in Las Vegas a couple of days ago a fighter unpacked the bags he had carried down from the drab suburban bungalow that had been his rented home.


F1 #39;s plans for London race gather pace

Bernie Ecclestone remains in the grip of Christmas spirit. A day after the gift of the British Grand Prix, given a July 10 date at yesterday #39;s FIA world council meeting, Formula One #39;s commercial


Carter placed on injured list with strained Achilles tendon

TORONTO (CP) - The Raptors placed Vince Carter on the injured list Friday with a strained left Achilles tendon. The guard/forward injured his Achilles in the first minute of the second half of Toronto #39;s loss at Detroit on Wednesday night.


Union bosses owe players an apology

Tough steroid testing is on the way, apparently. It #39;s too bad that it took ugly BALCO testimony and Senate threats to force Don Fehr and Gene Orza, the leaders of the union, to pull their heads out of the sand.


Brazelton wins Tony Conigliaro Award

Boston, MA (Sports Network) - Tampa Bay Devil Rays pitcher Dewon Brazelton captured the Tony Conigliaro Award. The honor is presented annually to the player who overcomes adversity through the attributes of spirit, determination and courage.


With Holiday Season Half Over, Web Sales on Track (Reuters)

Reuters - Online holiday spending,\excluding travel and auctions, was  #36;8.41 billion between Nov. 1\through Dec. 5, up 23 percent from the year-ago period and on\track to meet estimates, comScore Networks said Friday.


Thomson To Support Both HD DVD and Blu-ray (NewsFactor)

NewsFactor - Thomson, owner of the Technicolor brand and maker of Thomson and RCA DVD players, has announced that it will support both contending next-generation DVD formats. It will manufacture both HD DVD and Blu-ray disks through Technicolor, but manufacture only HD DVD players.


Sprint, Nextel Stocks Up on Merger Reports (AP)

AP - Wall Street was abuzz Friday over a potential merger between Sprint and Nextel, though the companies declined to comment on a slew of news reports that they are negotiating to combine to create a celluar provider that would almost rival Cingular Wireless and Verizon Wireless in size.


Oracle Moves Earnings Forward to Monday (Reuters)

Reuters - Business software maker Oracle\Corp.  on Friday said it will release its\second-quarter earnings before U.S. markets open on Monday,\instead of Thursday, due to issues related to its takeover bid\for PeopleSoft Inc. that may come up in court later on Monday.


Search heads toward enterprise desktops (InfoWorld)

InfoWorld - Desktop search has its sights set on corporate PCs, leaving enterprise IT wary of potential security issues associated with the highly anticipated tools.


Apple: ITunes Music Store Accepts PayPal (Reuters)

Reuters - Apple Computer Inc.  on\Friday said customers of its iTunes online music store can now\use eBay Inc.'s  online payment service PayPal to buy\songs and audio books, becoming the second major online music\store to do so.


Ice-Age Ivory Flute Found in German Cave (Reuters)

Reuters - A 35,000-year-old flute made from a\woolly mammoth's ivory tusk has been unearthed in a German cave\by archaeologists, the University of Tuebingen said on Friday.


Ancient Gold Mask to Be Returned to Peru (Reuters)

Reuters - A gold mask dating back more than\1,000 years to a pre-Inca civilization in northern Peru will be\returned home next year after being turned in to police by a\collector in Italy, a museum official said on Friday.


'After Kyoto' Takes Center Stage at Climate Talks (Reuters)

Reuters - The Kyoto agreement to\reduce greenhouse gas emissions doesn't take effect for two\months, but climate change negotiators are already fixated on\what happens when it expires in 2012.


Strong Meteor Shower Peaks Monday Night (SPACE.com)

SPACE.com - If you were disappointed \  with the meager showing put on by this year's Leonid meteor shower, don't fret. \  What could be the best meteor display of the year is scheduled to reach its \  peak on Monday night, Dec. 13.


ISS Crew Counts Calories as Food Supply Runs Low (SPACE.com)

SPACE.com - With nbsp;food stores nbsp;running low, the two \astronauts living aboard the International Space Station (ISS) are cutting back \their meal intake and awaiting a critical cargo nbsp;delivery expected to arrive \on Dec. 25.


Development May Endanger Protected Species (AP)

AP - The Bush administration said Friday it will allow developers to complete construction and other projects even after belated discoveries that the work could endanger protected species.


What mistakes do Techno Utopians make?

Votes, Bits Bytes Boston bound? Speak your brains at our Andrew


In net politics, it's God vs Dog

Votes, Bits Bytes Meetup founder puts Pugs against Repubs


US missile defence test delayed

Bad weather forces the US to cancel the first full flight test of its national missile defence system in nearly two years.


Paypal and Apple iTunes link-up

Payment system Paypal announces a tie-up with Apple's iTunes as it continues to secure new business with online retailers.


Peoplesoft announces meeting date

Peoplesoft nominates its four current directors to retain their seats on the company board as it bids to see off a takeover by Oracle.


U.S. Video Games Sales Up 11 Pct in Nov.-Analysts

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Sales of video games rose about 11  percent in the United States in November, analysts said on  Friday, with two key titles responsible for almost 30 percent  of all games sold in the month.


Supreme Court to Look At File Sharing

The Supreme Court agreed Friday to consider whether two Internet file-sharing services may be held responsible for their customers' online swapping of copyrighted songs and movies.\-AP


U.S. Said Showing New Flexibility in N.Korea Talks (Reuters)

Reuters - The United States showed some new\flexibility in recent talks with North Korea on the nuclear\issue but Pyongyang was unimpressed and is resisting\participation in a new round of formal six-party negotiations,\U.S. officials and experts said on Friday.


Why do Workouts Work?

Most machines don't improve with use. Old pickup trucks don't gradually become Ferraris just by driving them fast, and a pocket calculator won't change into a supercomputer by crunching lots of numbers. The human body is different...


Crows as Clever as Great Apes, Study Says

While crows have a reputation for being clever birds, research now suggests they could be as intelligent as great apes.


Guatemala to Create Mayan University (AP)

AP - Guatemalan academics will create a university dedicated to rescuing and developing the ancient knowledge of the country's majority Mayan cultures, the nation's president said Friday.


Deep Tremors Detected Along San Andreas Fault

Seismologists have detected deep, non-volcanic tremors lasting up to 20 minutes along the San Andreas Fault in central California. The discovery suggests earthquakes may have deeper origins than previously thought.


"Hotel Rwanda" Portrays Hero Who Fought Genocide

When Rwanda plummeted into genocide ten years ago, the event transformed a genial hotelier into an unlikely hero. A new film, <I>Hotel Rwanda,</I> recounts his story.


Rwandan, Kenyan Named Winners of 2004 Conservation Award

Two wildlife champions, Michel Masozera, Rwanda country director for the Wildlife Conservation Society, and Ali Kaka, executive director of Kenya's East African Wild Life Society, are this year's winners of the National Geographic Society/Buffett Award for Leadership in African Conservation.


U.S. Jet Flight to Vietnam Makes History (AP)

AP - United Airlines became the first U.S. carrier to fly to Vietnam since the war ended nearly 30 years ago, marking a new milestone in relations between the former enemies as VIPs on board were greeted at the airport with lotus blossoms and silk lanterns.


ISPs fear losing broadband rights

Small ISPs worry that a FCC decison could take away their ability to offer DSL.


Offshoring observers square off

A Webcast lets you hear directly from major commentators on shipping work abroad.


Oracle Moves Earnings Forward to Monday

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Business software maker Oracle  Corp. ORCL.O on Friday said it will release its  second-quarter earnings before U.S. markets open on Monday,  instead of Thursday, due to issues related to its takeover bid  for PeopleSoft Inc. that may come up in court later on Monday.


U.S. Said Showing New Flexibility in N.Korea Talks

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States showed some new  flexibility in recent talks with North Korea on the nuclear  issue but Pyongyang was unimpressed and is resisting  participation in a new round of formal six-party negotiations,  U.S. officials and experts said on Friday.


U.S. Demands Cambodia Action in Sex Trafficking Case

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The top U.S. diplomat in charge of  combating trafficking in people demanded on Friday that  Cambodia free 91 women and children abducted from a shelter a  day after police had rescued them from a brothel.


US ex-financier jailed for fraud

Martin Frankel,  who defrauded insurance companies out of more than \$200m is sentenced to more than 16 years in jail.


Finger test 'spots heart disease'

A fingertip test could detect patients in the earliest stages of heart disease, US scientists have claimed.


Life in the IT fun house

For IT professionals, working in IT during the past few years has been a frightening whiplash tour through a carnival fun house. In the foyer of this (not so fun) fun house -- known as the 2001 Room -- the gag is simple: A rug is pulled out from under those fortunate enough to be standing, while others tumble down a dark chute, passing flashing neon signs that read layoffs and consolidation. In the background, the cacophony of late-night conference calls to Bangalore blares over loudspeakers.
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SBC Datacomm White Paper
Find out how Crate   Barrel expects to save \$180,000 by moving to VoIP, compared to a traditional PBX.


Grokster case set for Supreme Court

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear a case focusing on whether peer-to-peer (P-to-P) software vendors should be penalized for unauthorized file trading when their software is used.


Sun executive talks up NAS strategy

Sun Microsystems is planning to beef up its network-attached storage product line with support for utility computing and its new zettabyte file system, according to Balint Fleischer, vice president and CTO of the network storage products group


JBoss aims high with Enterprise Middleware System

JBoss Inc. on Monday plans to announce its JBoss Enterprise Middleware System, which includes a number of open-source projects the company plans to integrate into a single software offering.


Data center virtualization, systems management coming from Cisco

Cisco executives told analysts this week that the company plans to take data center virtualization into areas such as application-aware switching and will partner to provide systems management software.


Cisco users see some pricing relief

Although many IT managers have accepted paying premium prices for Cisco's networking devices, some users and analysts said Cisco products aren't quite as pricey as they used to be.


IBM claims virtualization victory over EMC

IBM is claiming a storage management victory over EMC, saying it can now control its leading competitor's entire line of storage arrays with the latest version its SAN Volume Controller appliance.


Q A Part 2: Cisco's John Chambers on the '01 downturn, recovery

Today marks the 20th anniversary of the founding of Cisco Systems, and the company's CEO, John Chambers, took time this week to talk about where his company has been, mistakes it's made and where it's going now.


Sprint: No comment on reported Nextel merger talks

Sprint declined to comment on rumored merger talks with Nextel Communications, first reported yesterday.


CSOs see viruses, worms as top security challenge for '05

Worms, viruses and Trojan horses will remain a top security concern in 2005, according to executives at this week's CSO Interchange forum in New York.


Desktop search avalanche set to hit

Two months after Internet search leader Google offered a test version of a desktop search tool, Microsoft, Yahoo and Ask Jeeves are all set to follow suit.


Longhorn Server to have one version for many roles

SAN FRANCISCO - Microsoftwill let customers configure the next major release of Windows Server for specific server tasks, rather than selling a host of different Windows Server Longhorn editions tailored to those tasks, a company executive said Friday.


We #39;re good for policyholders, says Osmond

Hugh Osmond, the pubs-to-pizzas entrepreneur leading the , yesterday outlined a vision of delivering much better investment returns to policyholders stranded in closed with-profit funds.


Sun eyes home users with Sun Ray update

SAN FRANCISCO - Sun Microsystems on Monday will update its Sun Ray platform with new workstations and server software that company executives believe will give the thin client devices a foothold among home users.


Jordan Says Wizards Won't Tolerate Guff (AP)

AP - Kwame Brown's boycott of a team huddle during a game was an example of immaturity that will not be tolerated, according to Washington Wizards coach Eddie Jordan.


Dewon Brazelton Wins Conigliaro Award (AP)

AP - Tampa Bay pitcher Dewon Brazelton, who bounced from home to home with a twin brother who has cerebral palsy, will receive the Tony Conigliaro Award for overcoming adversity through spirit, determination and courage.


Phishing Web sites grew by 33 percent in November

BOSTON - The number of phishing Web sites associated with online identity theft scams grew by 33 percent in November, after dropping off in September and early October, according to data compiled by the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG) and shared with IDG News Service.


Search heads toward enterprise desktops

Desktop search has its sights set on corporate PCs, leaving enterprise IT wary of potential security issues associated with the highly anticipated tools.
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Solaris 10(TM) OS: Position your business ten moves ahead.
Solaris 10 OS has arrived and provides even more\reasons for the world's most demanding businesses\to operate on this, the leading UNIX platform.\Like the fact you can run Linux and Solaris applications\side-by-side and run the same OS on SPARC(R),\AMD Opteron(TM), and Intel processor-based systems.\Discover more reasons and how Solaris 10 OS can move\your business ahead today.


Serena boosts IDEs, collaboration in change management

Serena Software this week announced improvements to its enterprise change management system, Serena ChangeMan Dimensions.


Cape Clear boosts business processes in ESB

Cape Clear Software this week is upgrading its ESB with the release of Cape Clear 6, enabling development of business process workflows based on BPEL.
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Solaris 10(TM) OS: Position your business ten moves ahead.
Solaris 10 OS has arrived and provides even more\reasons for the world's most demanding businesses\to operate on this, the leading UNIX platform.\Like the fact you can run Linux and Solaris applications\side-by-side and run the same OS on SPARC(R),\AMD Opteron(TM), and Intel processor-based systems.\Discover more reasons and how Solaris 10 OS can move\your business ahead today.


JBoss set to shine with JEMS middleware stack

JBoss on Monday plans to flesh out details of its open source middleware stack consisting largely of existing software technologies, with the company intending to fill out the stack over time.


Supreme Court Will Hear Grokster Case

Lower courts had ruled that the companies are not liable for copyright violations committed by users.


Jordan Makes Statement

Wizards coach Eddie Jordan says the team is making a statement that immaturity will not be tolerated by suspending Kwame Brown one game for not taking part in a team huddle during a loss to Denver.


Portis Fined for Socks

Clinton Portis was fined \$5,000 by the NFL for wearing a pair of red socks last week, violating the league's uniform rules.


Moreover Technologies Offers Blog Ping Service\\Moreover Technologies, a provider of syndicated news and online information, this week announced a new service that enables bloggers to significantly expand the distribution of their content by automatically notifying Moreover the instant new content is published. The Moreover Ping Server ensures rapid inclusion into ...


MSN Beta - An SEOs Dream Search Engine

MSN Beta - An SEO's Dream Search Engine\\MSN Beta is still serving up results that make any SEO jump for joy. It is very easy for many SEOs to rank well in the new Beta Search engine by MSN. A thread at SEO Chat asks the question, How long will ...


Google Has A New One for the Labs - Google Suggest\\Google's Labs has popped out a new beta - Google Suggest. Google Suggest looks like the regular Google search, except as you type in keywords Google -- surprise! -- tries to guess what you could be typing. The really nifty ...


News: DirecTV hacker sentenced to seven years

A Canadian man arrested in the U.S. was allegedly responsible for putting 68,000 hacked smart cards on the street.\


iPod for Schoolwork

Mark Glassman writes in the New York Times,  #147;At the Brearley School, a private school for girls on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, where Samantha is in the eighth grade, the iPod went from a  #145;want #146; to a  #145;must have #146; this year when its use was incorporated into foreign-language and classics courses. #148; Free registration required Dec 10


Gadget of the Year: iPod mini

#147;The Apple iPod mini, at \$249, is my choice as 2004 #146;s hottest high-tech gadget, #148; writes Mike Wendland in the Detroit Free Press.  #147;All of the iPods are awesome. But this little package, weighing in at 3.6 ounces, a half-inch thick and the size of a business card, is so slick and so sleek that all I can say is: Sweet  #133; And it delivers a sound quality so big and so pristine that it #146;s hard to believe it #146;s coming from something so tiny. It #146;s cutting-edge, high-tech chicness. #148; Dec 10


Best of Year: iMac G5

Naming the iMac G5 one of its Best Products of the Year, Fortune writes,  #147;An engineering marvel, the new iMac tucks the computer and speakers inside the expansive flat-panel display  #151;  #145;an advance as welcome as the day that VCR/DVD players were encased in the TV monitor box, #146; says Thompson Paul Thompson, director of the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum. Built-in wireless technology lets you use a cable-free keyboard and mouse. #148; Dec 10


Use PayPal at US iTunes Music Store

The iTunes Music Store in the US will now accept PayPal for purchases of music downloads, audiobooks and gift certificates. Starting today, iTunes Music Store purchases can be funded through PayPal #146;s virtual wallet, allowing customers to pay in the way they prefer  #151; using a credit card, bank account or stored account balance. Dec 10


Sprint-Nextel Deal Talk Sparks Concern

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The prospect of a deal between Sprint  and Nextel Communications sparked concerns on Friday about a  shrinking U.S. market for mobile network equipment, sending  shares of Nextel's key supplier Motorola Inc. MOT.N down  almost 8 percent.


Sprint, Nextel Reportedly Near Merger

The merger deal between Sprint and Nextel, which reportedly has not been finalized, is being described as a merger of equals that would create the third largest US cellular carrier with nearly 39 million subscribers.


Chrysler to recall 600,000 SUVs, pick-ups

DETROIT, United States (AFP) - Under pressure from US regulators, DaimlerChrysler #39;s Chrysler Group said it would recall more than half a million trucks over ball joint defects that can cause the wheels of the vehicle to separate from the body.


Finley Signs  #36;14 Million Deal With Angels (AP)

AP - The Anaheim Angels rounded out their starting outfield Friday, agreeing to a  #36;14 million, two-year contract with center fielder Steve Finley.


Get smart, baseball; start stricter testing

Major League Baseball players finally came to their senses this week, telling their lawyers to reach an agreement on tougher testing for steroids.


Nobel Peace Prize awarded

Environmentalists around the world are holding their heads a little higher. Wangari Maathai is being honored for her work in preserving the earth.


Coburn Wants to Keep Delivering Babies (AP)

AP - Republican Sen.-elect Tom Coburn of Oklahoma, a politician and an obstetrician, wants to deliver more babies after he takes office Jan. 4, a request apparently at odds with Senate conflict-of-interest rules.


N.M. Church May Use Special Tea for Now (AP)

AP - The U.S. Supreme Court sided Friday with a New Mexico church that wants to use hallucinogenic tea as part of its Christmas services, despite government objections that the tea is illegal and potentially dangerous.


China Aviation Oil Company illegal behavior: SASAC

China #39;s state assets watchdog said here Friday that the derivatives trading of China Aviation Oil (Singapore) Corp. was in violation of the rules, and the company exceeded its authority in deciding to endorse the trading.


Oil Prices Skid as U.S. Winter Stays Mild

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Oil prices slid on Monday on  expectations that more mild U.S. weather at the start of the  New Year will limit heating oil demand.


McNair sits out practice again, Carter added to injury list

Tennessee quarterback Steve McNair sat out another practice Friday with a bruised sternum, and didn #39;t even try to throw even though coach Jeff Fisher said the injury is healing.


Diamondbacks Keep Busy; Ortiz Heading Home

ANAHEIM, Calif., (Sports Network) - The Arizona  Diamondbacks continued their offseason makeover Friday as they  signed free agent pitcher Russ Ortiz to a four-year contract.


Observers: reported deal good for Sprint, better for Nextel

Sprint Corp. appears to be on the verge of the boldest move of CEO Gary Forsee #39;s 18-month tenure: A \$36 billion merger with rival wireless company Nextel Communications Inc.


Energy proposal pushes debate toward center

A nonpartisan group that includes advocates for business, labor, consumers, and the environment gave a significant nudge this week to the effort to craft a national energy policy.


Spirits of Prohibition

Vestiges of the failed social policy of the alcohol ban early in the past century still linger in state liquor laws, but the current US Supreme Court battle over direct interstate sales of wine has less to do with Prohibition than protectionism.


Electronics giant Thomson to introduce HD DVD players in 2005

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


Cyber-Security Office Calls for More Clout

The office in charge of cyber-security in the Department of Homeland Security is planning to continue moving ahead on the agenda the agency has already set.


Berlusconi proved to have bribed judge but avoids prison

Silvio Berlusconi, the Houdini of European politics, escaped jail last night on charges of bribing Roman judges. At the end of the Prime Minister #39;s trial in Milan, judges cleared him


Kerry Pays Nostalgic Visit to Iowa (AP)

AP - John Kerry paid an emotional return visit Friday to the state that launched him toward his party's nomination for president, saying he felt "an unbelievable wave of nostalgia."


'Climate Witnesses' Testify About Warming (AP)

AP - A Nepalese Sherpa fears his mountain valley will be flooded by melting glacier runoff high in the Himalayas. A Fiji islander frets about rising sea levels, while villagers cope with the destruction of mangrove swamps in India.


Cambodian sex workers abducted

Armed men abduct more than 80 women from a shelter for rescued sex workers in Cambodia's capital.


Babb #39;s Bits: The Notre Dame Dilemma

Some are undoubtedly asking - Why another Notre Dame article? Hasnt every media hack in the United States and even China written something on this the last two weeks?


In Conte's '20/20' Remarks, Legal Experts See a Risk

As lacerating as Victor Conte Jr.'s remarks were about widespread doping in elite sport, his appearance on the ABC program was also puzzling to legal experts.


Afghans' Gains Face Big Threat in Drug Traffic

A U.S. report warns that an increase in poppy cultivation will expand the influence of drug lords on Afghanistan's government.


All Corruption Charges Against Berlusconi Are Dismissed

A panel absolved Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of Italy of corruption charges, ending a trial that had dragged on for more than four years.


Southwest Offers \$100 Million for ATA Assets

The move by Southwest was a sign of the competition that is emerging in the low-fare segment of the industry.


Variations on Power to the People

In the Enron bankruptcy tale, one of the more intriguing sideshows involves the fate of Portland General Electric, the only energy-producing asset Enron actually owned.


MBNA Stops Unsolicited Switching of Customer Credit Cards

The MBNA Corporation has decided that it should ask for permission before switching its customers' credit cards to American Express cards.


Holmes Will Return

Despite a knee injury that ended his season, the Chiefs' Priest Holmes says he is "definitely 100 percent" planning to be back for 2005.


Wireless telecoms sector leads the way

For the past year, ever since the AT amp;T Wireless management first put the then third-largest US mobile phone group on the auction block, Wall Street has been abuzz with rumours and


From Lenovo of China to that of the world

quot;On behalf of the Board of the Lenovo Directors I am honored to announced to the world that Lenovo Group has bought IBM #39;s PC division for US\$1.25 billion.


Airbus given go-ahead for A350 marketing

Airbus was given the go-ahead yesterday by its shareholders - EADS and BAE Systems - to start marketing its planned A350 mid-range aircraft to airlines, heralding


German workers feel chill of General Motors job cuts

By Hugh Williamson in Berlin and Richard Milne in Rsselsheim. The mood at Opel #39;s Rssel-heim factory near Frankfurt was as chilly yesterday as the weather.


Bristol-Myers Squibb seeks to sell cholesterol medicine over <b>...</b>

Bristol-Myers Squibb plans to ask US regulators to allow it to sell Pravachol over the counter, in a move that could shake up the growing, lucrative market for cholesterol-reducing drugs.


Wholesale Prices Rose 0.5 in November

Wholesale prices increased 0.5 percent in November, reflecting the biggest jump in natural gas costs since March 2003, the Labor Department said yesterday.


Stocks: Confidence data push shares higher

NEW YORK Stocks rose slightly on Friday as a rise in consumer confidence was offset by an unexpected jump in US producer prices, spurring inflation concerns.


Local wineries eyeing Supreme Court debate

Though Vern Holm is just getting into the wine business, his enterprise could be greatly impacted by the overturning of a prohibition-era law.


Eight-year ban for Collins

The United States Anti-Doping Agency last night banned the sprinter Michelle Collins for eight years, even though she has never tested positive for drugs, in a case which could have serious repercussions for Marion Jones.


Nuggets add to Raptors woes

TORONTO (CP) - With an injured Vince Carter on the bench, the Toronto Raptors dropped their sixth straight game Friday, 101-87 to the Denver Nuggets.


Three teams in the running to be winter champions in Germany

BERLIN: Three teams have the chance to lift the honorific title of  #39;winter champions #39; heading into the final weekend of fixtures before the Bundesliga takes a five-week winter hiatus.


Mets still hoping to land Martinez

Pedro Martinez is still available, and the New York Mets still believe they have a realistic chance to land him.  quot;Do we have hope of signing him?


Afghans #39; Gains Face Big Threat in Drug Traffic

Poppy cultivation and opium production will continue to increase in Afghanistan, expanding the dangerous influence of drug lords at all levels of the government of President


Bucknell Stuns Pitt

No. 10 Pittsburgh suffers its first loss of the season Sunday to Bucknell, 69-66. The defeat snaps the Panthers' 48-game non-conference home winning streak.


Airbus to launch A350 to rival Boeing 7E7

PARIS, Dec 10 (AFP) - The European aircraft manufacturer Airbus is to launch a new plane, the A350, that will challenge the future Boeing fuel-efficient 7E7, Airbus owners EADS and BAE Systems announced Friday.


Nextel, Sprint Discuss Merger

You didnt read it here first, but its worth noting: Nextel has unique technology that lets them serve businesses who need push-to-talk quite well, but itsa mess of spectrum and


Teams Eye Free Agents at Winter Meetings (AP)

AP - Just down the road from the Magic Kingdom, major league teams toyed with trades and focused on free agents as the winter meetings began Friday.


Heat Stops Cold-Shooting Grizzlies 92-84 (AP)

AP - Dwyane Wade narrowly missed a triple-double and Shaquille O'Neal scored 11 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter, awakening just in time to help lift the Miami Heat to an 92-84 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night.


Pavano Unlikely to Return to Marlins (AP)

AP - Carl Pavano probably won't return to the Florida Marlins but needs time to choose among the six American League teams that have courted him.


Fire of London

Anyone seeking the secret of Chelsea #39;s success this season need have witnessed only one moment in training yesterday, a second #39;s play that exemplified the spirit, individual


Manning closes in on Marinos TD mark

HOUSTON - With only a few seconds left in a certain victory for Miami, Peyton Manning threw a meaningless 6-yard touchdown pass to Marvin Harrison to cut the score to 24-15.


Notre Dame Trustee Raps Coach's Firing (AP)

AP - Notre Dame mishandled the firing of Tyrone Willingham as football coach and is not doing a good job in its search for his replacement, board of trustees member Dave Duerson said Friday.


Bomb in Pakistan market kills at least 11

QUETTA, PAKISTAN - At least 11 people were killed Friday when a powerful bomb went off at a popular outdoor market in the city of Quetta in southwestern Pakistan.


Venezuela military plane crashes

CARACAS, Venezuela - A military plane crashed in the mountains near Caracas on Friday, killing all 16 people on board including two high-ranking military officers, officials said.


Iraqi militant group frees abducted Bangladeshi driver: family :

World News  gt; Dhaka, Dec 10 : A Bangladeshi truck driver, who was abuducted by an Iraqi militant group nearly two months ago, has been freed, his brother said today.


Manning takes aim at NFL touchdown record

WASHINGTON (AFP) - Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning can set a National Football League record for touchdown passes in a single season Sunday and secure a playoff spot for the Colts three games before the season #39;s end.


UN welcomes support of United States for Secretary-General

10 December 2004 - One day after the United States Ambassador to the United Nations John Danforth gave his full backing to Secretary-General Kofi Annan - who had heard calls for his resignation from certain quarters in that country - a UN spokesman


Anti-Doping Agency Is Boosted By Ban of Sprinter in Balco Case

The United States Anti-Doping Agency received an important validation when sprinter Michelle Collins, 33, received an eight-year suspension on Friday.


Redskins Fined Over Red Socks

ASHBURN, Va., Dec. 10 (AP) - Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis and safety Sean Taylor were fined \$5,000 by the National Football League for wearing red socks in Sunday's game, a violation of the league's uniform rules.


'Deadliest' year in 10 for media

In the deadliest year for journalists in a decade, 54 reporters and crew are killed around the world.


Taiwanese Vote Today May Boost Separatism

High-stakes elections are likely to reinforce President Chen Shui-bian's drive to bestow more trappings of independence on this self-governing island despite warnings from the Chinese government and the U.S.


Dodge Durango SUVs and Dakota pickups recalled

Daimler Chrysler tells CTV News that about 60,000 Canadian vehicles will be included in a massive North American recall that involves more than 600,000 Dodge Durango SUV #39;s and Dakota pickup trucks.


Delphi to cut 8,500 jobs, post 350-million-dollar loss in 2005

New York (dpa) - Delphi Corp., the world #39;s largest auto-parts maker, said Friday that it will cut 8,500 jobs, or nearly 5 per cent of its workforce, next year while it also announced that it would post losses for the fourth quarter and for 2005.


Nets Nudge Hornets 94-91 in Overtime (AP)

AP - Jason Kidd hit a go-ahead basket early in overtime, and the Nets denied former coach Byron Scott a win in his return to New Jersey with a 94-91 victory over the New Orleans Hornets on Friday night.


N.H.L. Must Determine if It Is Certain About Cost Certainty

Aside from scoring public relations points with its latest offer, the players union has forced N.H.L. Commissioner Gary Bettman to make a difficult decision.


Sprint Near Deal to Buy Nextel for \$34 Billion

A merger between Sprint and Nextel would create a powerful new cellular competitor with some 39 million customers.


More Questions for Producer of Flu Vaccine

The F.D.A. is demanding that Chiron provide more information about its plans to fix widespread sanitary problems at its flu vaccine factory in England.


Oil Prices Decline Sharply, but Shares Dip Anyway

Concerns over the economy and potential inflation outweighed a sharp drop in oil prices, sending stocks slightly lower yesterday. All three major indexes were lower for the week as Wall Street #39;s customary year-end rally stalled.


Hill sits out with bruised right shin

Grant Hill missed a game for the first time in this season Friday night, a precautionary move because of a badly bruised right shin.


Angels Sign Finley to a Two-Year Deal

ANAHEIM, Calif., (Sports Network) - The Anaheim Angels on  Friday signed veteran free-agent outfielder Steve Finley to a  two-year deal worth \$14 million, with a club option for the  2007 season.


Cambodia Women's Shelter Closes After Raid (AP)

AP - A shelter for women and girls forced into the sex trade temporarily shut its doors Friday after gunmen kidnapped 92 of its occupants and made death threats against the staff, the shelter's director said.


No Fighting the Co-op Board, Even With Talons

The story of the hawks evicted from their perch on a Manhattan building serves as a reminder of the power of co-op boards.


Internet Drug Exporters Feel Pressure in Canada

The industry has run into regulatory, political and economic pressures that may drive it out of Canada altogether.


Sprint is near a deal to acquire Nextel Communications for more than \$34 billion in a transaction that would lead to further consolidation in the rapidly changing telecommunications industry


Nets 94, Hornets 91, OT

Jason Kidd hit a go-ahead basket early in overtime, and the Nets denied former coach Byron Scott a win in his return to New Jersey with a 94-91 victory over the New Orleans Hornets on Friday night.


Portis, Taylor fined \$5,000 for wearing red socks

That was an expensive pair of red socks Clinton Portis wore last week. They #39;re costing him \$5,000. The NFL fined the Washington Redskins running back Friday for violating the league #39;s uniform rules.


Soldier guilty of murdering Iraqi

A US soldier is expected to be sentenced today after being found guilty of murder for shooting a severely wounded Iraqi civilian, while the US army pressed its sole supplier of armoured Humvees to increase production amid a growing domestic controversy


Taiwan votes Saturday in high-stakes legislative elections likely to reinforce President Chen Shui-bian #39;s drive to bestow more trappings of independence on this self


End of era: Adieu, VCR

The VCR, family home companion around the world during the 1980s and 1990s, is finally slipping into oblivion after a long, slow fall from favor.


Eiffel Tower Opens Elevated Skating Rink (AP)

AP - Holiday on ice takes on new meaning when you're high above the rooftops of Paris doing figure eights inside the Eiffel Tower. During the 115 years of the Eiffel Tower's existence, it has added refreshment stands, trinket shops and fancy restaurants  #151; but nothing quite matches the skating rink in the sky that opened to the public Friday.


Record-smashing Kumble slams critics

DHAKA - Leading Indian wicket-taker Anil Kumble yesterday brushed aside criticism over his unique bowling style, saying he is a leg-spinner with a difference.


Hawks 88, Pistons 72

Rookie Josh Smith replaced Kenny Anderson at point guard and had career highs of 12 points and four blocks in his first NBA start as the Atlanta Hawks stunned the Detroit Pistons 88-72 Friday night.


UN envoy to Iraq discusses elections with top US official

WASHINGTON - The United Nations special envoy to Iraq met with US Deputy Secretary of Defense Richard Armitage Friday to discuss Iraqs January elections, the State Department said.


Turkmen leader reburies relatives

Turkmen president moves the remains of his family to a newly-built mausoleum in his home village.


Crawford Financial Resources Inc

Small wine producers seek Supreme Court #39;s help in allowing them to make direct shipments to wine-lovers in other states. VIRGINIA WINE makes a great holiday gift, but if the state #39;s wineries send it to your


Sharon to form new coalition

AL QUDS, Dec 10: Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon moved swiftly on Friday to forge a national unity government after winning approval to reshape his coalition and crushing internal opposition to his Gaza pullout plan.


Oxyride Battery to Be Sold in the U.S. (AP)

AP - A battery developed by Matsushita Electric Industrial that delivers 1.5 times the power of a regular alkaline battery is going on sale in the United States and Europe in April 2005.


Justices Agree to Hear Case on Sharing of Music Files

The Supreme Court, accepting urgent pleas from the recording and film industries, agreed on Friday to decide whether the online services that enable copyrighted songs


Spam-happy shoppers love stolen software

Online shoppers are still willing to buy products advertised in spam, indicating that the problem is unlikely to desist anytime soon, a new survey shows.


Nextel, Sprint  Close to  Merger (washingtonpost.com)

washingtonpost.com - Nextel Communications Inc. and Sprint Corp. reached a tentative agreement to merge, a deal that would create the nation's third-biggest mobile-phone company and could bring significant changes to Nextel's Reston headquarters.


Griffin would welcome White into exclusive club

If Jason White is named the Heisman Trophy winner he will be one of two players who have gotten the prestigious award twice. Former Ohio State tailback Archie Griffin is the only player to


Kidd Says Hello, Then Ruins Scott #39;s Return

There might not be much love between Nets #39; captain Jason Kidd and his former coach, Byron Scott. But Kidd obviously wanted to make sure everybody on press row


US soldier guilty of murdering unarmed Iraqi

BAGHDAD (AFP) - A US soldier is expected to be sentenced after being found guilty of murder for shooting to death a severely wounded Iraqi civilian, while the US army pressed its sole supplier of armored Humvees to increase production amid a growing


Terps Falter Again

Maryland men's soccer team loses in the semifinals of the NCAA tournament for the third straight year, this time 3-2 to Indiana in overtime.


T'wolves Drop Kings

Kevin Garnett narrowly misses a triple-double with 35 points, 18 rebounds and nine assists as Minnesota outlasts Sacramento, 113-105, on Friday night.


Codejack's really hot chili

It's winter again, and that means chili time. There's not much better than coming in out of the cold to a good hot (hot!) bowl of chili, preferably served over macaroni with grated cheddar cheese on top. Now, everyone makes chili differently, so of course no one is actually going to follow my recipe exactly, but that's all right. If you want inferior chili, that's your right as an American. Foreigners, you may be out of luck, but then, do you have any business making chili, anyway? This applies to Californians and New Englanders, too.


British Guantanamo Detainee Details Abuse Claims

LONDON (Reuters) - A British man held at the Guantanamo Bay  prison camp in Cuba says he was shackled so long he wet himself  and was forced to clean up his own urine, the Guardian  newspaper reported on Saturday.


Red Cross Warns of Fallujah Risks

The organization said that since a U.S. assault last month, sewage was flowing in the streets and hundreds of bodies apparently lay in a warehouse.


Bank of America to add 300 jobs

Bank of America Corp. said yesterday it will bring 300 more jobs to Boston as part of its wealth management unit.


Prospect of deal triggers concerns

Reports that Sprint Corp. may be close to a \$36 billion takeover of Nextel Communications Inc. yesterday alarmed consumer advocates, who predicted it would lead to less competition and higher prices for wireless service.


Diverging Fortunes, Tied to the Dollar

Europe fears its exports will be choked off by the dollar's decline, while American manufacturers are rejoicing.


Justices to Hear Case on Sharing of Music Files

The Supreme Court agreed on Friday to decide whether online services can be held liable for enabling copyrighted songs and movies to be shared freely.


Sprint Near Deal to Buy Nextel -Sources (Reuters)

Reuters - Sprint Corp. is close to\an agreement to buy Nextel Communications Inc. for about  #36;35\billion in a mostly stock deal that would combine the No. 3 and


Cut by OPEC doesn #39;t slow the drop in crude #39;s price

OPEC, worried by the recent downward spiral of crude prices, agreed to cut production by 1 million barrels a day at a Friday meeting in Cairo, Egypt, but rather than shoring up prices, the action created a sell-off.


Jetliner is first US one to land in Vietnam since war #39;s end

For the first time since the Vietnam War ended, a US commercial airliner landed in Vietnam on Friday night, marking another milestone in the improving relations between two former enemies.


Delphi to Eliminate an Additional 8,500 Jobs

Delphi, the world #39;s largest auto parts maker, said Friday that it would cut nearly 5 percent of its work force, or 8,500 jobs, as it copes with the declining fortunes


Realtors #39; big red kettle aids Target-less ringers

Dismayed that Target stores have banned Salvation Army bell ringers, two Ahwatukee Foothills Realtors are bringing the biggest red kettle they can find to their office today and inviting donations.


Netflix CEO rates Blockbuster, Amazon threats

Netflix chief executive Reed Hastings said on Friday that Blockbuster has more to lose in the war for online DVD renters than emerging foe Amazon.


Bank of America to add 300 jobs

Bank of America Corp. said yesterday it will bring 300 more jobs to Boston as part of its wealth management unit. The decision comes after the bank agreed


Huge Boeing rocket prepared for liftoff today

One of the most powerful rockets since The Boeing Co. #39;s Saturn 5 hurled astronauts to the moon more than three decades ago is set to blast away from Cape Canaveral today, weather permitting.


Meteor show will reach peak Monday night

One of the year #39;s best meteor showers reaches a peak Monday when, weather permitting, you can expect to see dozens of meteors an hour shooting across the sky.


Williams a timid challenger?

Five months ago, Danny Williams beat a shadow. Tonight, he #39;ll try to beat a mountain. Don #39;t bet against the mountain. Williams is the burly British


Pompey targets Strachan

The managerial merry-go-round shows no signs of stopping, with former Southampton boss Gordon Strachan now the favourite to replace new Saints manager Harry Redknapp at Portsmouth.


NBA Wrap: Hawks Stun Injury-Plagued Pistons

Tony Delk and Predrag Drobjnak both scored 16 points as the Atlanta Hawks stunned the defending NBA champion Detroit Pistons 88-72 in National Basketball Association play Friday in Auburn Hills.


Seven year old Palestinian girl shot by Isreali sholdiers

Israeli soldiers killed a seven-year-old Palestinian girl yesterday when they fired at Palestinians in the Khan Younis refugee camp in Gaza.


Women more at risk from climate change: Canadian at UN conference

Severe weather caused by global warming can pose greater physical danger to women than men, a Canadian attending a UN conference on climate change said Friday.


Arab, G8 leaders to meet in Morocco on reform in Arab world

Leaders of the Group of Eight (G8) industrial nations and about 20 Arab countries across North Africaand the Middle East are scheduled to meet on Saturday here to discuss reforms


Helicopter crash kills 2 US soldiers in Iraq

BAGHDAD - Two US soldiers were killed and four were wounded late Thursday when an airborne helicopter struck one on the ground at an airfield in the northern city of Mosul, military officials said.


High-Volume Toys Called a  Hazard

Talking kitchens and vanities. Musical jump ropes and potty seats. Blusterous miniature leaf blowers and vacuum cleaners -- almost as loud as the real things.


Bush Picks Treasury  Deputy to  Lead Energy

President Bush nominated Deputy Treasury Secretary Samuel W. Bodman yesterday as his second secretary of energy, tapping an administration veteran to lead the Energy Department at a time of unstable oil prices and rising nuclear proliferation concerns.


Suns Win Again to Tie Seattle Atop NBA (AP)

AP - One week ahead of their showdown with Seattle, the Phoenix Suns tied the SuperSonics atop the NBA standings.


Penalties Stiff for Slander in Venezuela (AP)

AP - A new penal code approved by Venezuela's Congress would stiffen prison sentences for slander and libel, drawing criticism from opponents of President Hugo Chavez.


Red Sox Reportedly Offer Wells Contract (AP)

AP - The Boston Red Sox might try to defend their World Series with an even wackier group than the self-proclaimed "bunch of idiots" that ended the franchise's 86-year dynasty of disappointment.


Tendulkar equals world record for test centuries (Reuters)

Reuters - Sachin Tendulkar smashed his 34th test century to equal Sunil Gavaskar's world record in the first test against Bangladesh on Saturday.


Kerik Withdraws His Name for Top DHS Job (AP)

AP - Bernard Kerik, New York City's former top cop, withdrew his name from consideration to be President Bush's homeland security secretary, a victim of the embarrassing "nanny problem" that has killed the nominations of other prominent officials.


The N.H.L. Must Figure Out If It's Certain on Cost Certainty

Aside from scoring public relations points with its latest offer, the players union has forced N.H.L. Commissioner Gary Bettman to make a difficult decision.


Houston On Bench As Knicks Lose Late

Allan Houston made his season debut for the Knicks, and although his comeback was successful enough, the night was not.


Montgomerie Is No Stranger to Playing With Woods

Colin Montgomerie walked off the 18th green in a tie for the lead with Tiger Woods at the Target World Challenge on Friday.


Sox offer Wells deal

As they tried inching closer to signing Pedro Martinez and remained in the hunt for Carl Pavano, the Red Sox yesterday stepped up their pursuit of David Wells as the winter baseball meetings opened, offering the 41-year-old lefthander a one-year, \$6.5 million contract with \$1 million in potential performance bonuses.


Dillon could do a number

The Patriots are expected to run all over the Cincinnati Bengals tomorrow at Gillette Stadium. At least that is what the statistics indicate.


World ; First US flight in Vietnam since 1975

World News, HO CHI MINH CITY, A United Airlines plane has landed in Vietnam #39;s Ho Chi Minh City, the first commercial American airliner to fly to the country since the Vietnam War.


For Holmes, return in '05 is chief goal

Priest Holmes spoke of retirement after setting an NFL record with 27 touchdowns in 2003. Yesterday, a day after the Kansas City Chiefs put their star running back on injured reserve, he stated his intention to return next season. Holmes, 31, was leading the NFL in rushing and scoring when he strained ligaments in his right knee Nov. 7. This ...


Cincinnati in rush to blitz

Coach Bill Belichick expects the Bengals to blitz often tomorrow at Gillette Stadium. Cincinnati has 29 sacks this season, led by Justin Smith with six and Duane Clemons with 5 1/2. The Bengals have intercepted 16 passes and opposing quarterbacks have a 61.7 completion percentage.


Players react to proposal

National Hockey League Players Association executive director Bob Goodenow said Thursday night in Toronto that when some members of his constituency found out the union was offering a 24 percent rollback on salaries across the board as one of its concessions to the owners in an effort to forge a new collective bargaining agreement and thereby save part of the ...


Peterson has good shot at being first freshman Heisman winner

As always, this year #39;s Heisman Memorial Trophy ballot asks voters to designate one person as the  quot;Outstanding College Football Player of the United States for 2004.


For Brandeis women, situation is unbeatable

Few schools boast a list of faculty and alumni as distinguished -- or as eclectic -- as Brandeis University.


Bringing BU together

Boston University will raise the curtain on a new \$225 million athletic complex at a gala next week, and its much-anticipated Agganis Arena will host its inaugural hockey game Jan. 3.


UMass walking on air after win

The bus ride to the airport in Warwick, R.I., was a raucous one for the University of Massachusetts men's basketball team yesterday afternoon. Over and over, the team watched the highlight from Thursday night when Rashaun Freeman hit the go-ahead basket against Connecticut and then leapt into the crowd with 4.3 seconds left on the clock.


Johnson Wins Butkus

Texas linebacker Derrick Johnson wins the Butkus Award on Friday night as the nation's best linebacker.


US soldier jailed for Iraq murder

A US soldier is jailed for three years in a plea bargain after the murder of a severely wounded Iraqi teenager.


Ex-World Champion McRae Leads Dakar Rally

LONDON (Reuters) - Ex-world champion Colin McRae took a  narrow lead in the Dakar Rally after winning a 6.2-mile special  stage on the third day outside Granada in Spain Sunday.


College Basketball: Bucknell Upsets No. 10 Pitt

PITTSBURGH (Sports Network) - Kevin Bettencourt scored five  of his 13 points in the final two minutes to lead Bucknell to a  69-66 upset over 10th-ranked and previously unbeaten  Pittsburgh.


Pakistan arrests militant leader

Pakistan says it has arrested the head of a militant Islamic group suspected of kidnapping UN workers in Afghanistan.


Colombia fighters give up weapons

TIBU, Colombia -- The commander of Colombia's paramilitary forces wept and apologized yesterday for his role in a war against Marxist rebels as 1,400 fighters surrendered their weapons in the largest demobilization of an outlawed armed faction in the country's history.


Sharon courts Labor for coalition

JERUSALEM -- Prime Minister Ariel Sharon of Israel asked the Labor Party yesterday to join his ruling coalition, a move that would bolster his chances of carrying out a withdrawal from the Gaza Strip next year.


US commercial jetliner touches down in Vietnam, in milestone for 2 nations

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam -- United Airlines became the first US carrier to fly to Vietnam since the war ended nearly 30 years ago, marking a new milestone in relations between the former enemies as dignitaries on board were greeted at the airport with lotus blossoms and silk lanterns.


Human error cited in jet hit by Patriot

Army commanders ordered a Patriot missile battery to shoot down a Navy jet during the invasion of Iraq last year after mistaking the aircraft for an incoming Iraqi missile, a military investigation concluded yesterday.


Red Cross gets first look at war-ravaged Fallujah

BAGHDAD -- For the first time since a US-led offensive devastated Fallujah, a Red Cross team entered the city and met with Iraqi technicians and engineers to discuss sewage and water treatment needs, a group spokesman said yesterday.


Candidate list hints at Iraq's political future

BAGHDAD -- Iraq's future political landscape began taking shape yesterday, as a coalition led by powerful Shi'ite Muslim groups revealed a few of its candidates in next month's parliamentary election. They include former exiles, a prominent cleric, and members of the interim government.


US soldier admits killing injured teen

BAGHDAD -- A US soldier pleaded guilty yesterday to killing a severely wounded Iraqi teenager in what investigators say may have been a mercy killing, the latest of several similar incidents that have undercut efforts by the United States to win support among Iraqis and defeat a rampant insurgency.


In Paris, a slick maneuver tries to lure tourists to Eiffel Tower

PARIS -- Holiday on ice takes on new meaning high above the rooftops of Paris doing figure eights inside the Eiffel Tower.


Air Force Set for Test Flight of New Rocket

The Air Force is scheduled to launch a new Delta 4 rocket on Saturday in a test that will help determine whether it can become a vehicle to carry billion-dollar military satellites.


Doctor Offers Assurances That Astronauts Won't Go Hungry

NASA officials have asked the two astronauts aboard the International Space Station to stretch their food supplies until a cargo ship arrives in a couple of weeks with fresh groceries.


Weather Hinders Search for Ship's Crew as Oil Spill Widens

Huge waves and freezing rain hampered efforts on Friday to search for six missing crew members from a wrecked freighter that was spilling its oil into the Bering Sea.


With Food Low, Space Crew Must Cut Back

The two astronauts aboard the International Space Station have been asked to curb their calories because of a food shortage, NASA officials said.


OPEC ministers act to stop fall in oil prices

HAMISH ROBERTSON: Ministers from the countries that make up the oil producing cartel - OPEC -ave taken action overnight to stop the fall in oil prices.


Airbus targets the 7E7 niche with new plane design

Unwilling to concede any corner of the commercial-airplane market to Boeing, Airbus yesterday formalized plans for a new jet that will compete head-to-head with the 7E7.


China #39;s inflation slowed sharply in November

BEIJING -- China #39;s inflation rate slowed sharply in November, kept in check by lower price rises for food as government efforts to curb the economy began to bite, official data showed Friday.


Seattle bank agrees with feds on changes

Less than a month after posting a hefty drop in quarterly earnings, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle agreed yesterday with its regulator on steps to improve its performance.


Centrica hit by warning of margin pressure at British Gas

Centrica, the owner of British Gas, has lost nearly 1 million customers this year after rising fuel costs forced it to increase energy bills.


Napster plans to offer mobile ringtones

Online music retailer Napster announced its plans to enter the mobile ringtones market on Thursday. Napster, part of Roxio, Inc., said, it will partner with mobile content publisher Dwango Wireless to deliver ringtones to its mobile customers.


Poor round leaves Els up the creek

MALELANE - The story of yesterday #39;s second round at the Dunhill golf Championship was more about the losers than the winners. After shooting a five- under-par 67 on Thursday to lie one shot off leader Bruce


Collins Hills Winfield signs with USC-Upstate

Collins Hill senior Michael Winfield has signed a baseball and academic scholarship with the University of South Carolina Upstate in Spartanburg, SC He is the son of Randy Winfield and Cherie Welday.


Graham sparks Oklahoma St.

STILLWATER, OKLA. - Joey Graham scored 20 points and John Lucas III scored nine of his 18 in a 14-0 second-half run to lead fifth-ranked Oklahoma State to an 86-73 victory over UAB on Friday night.


Italian PM acquitted of attempting to bribe judge

HAMISH ROBERTSON: The Italian Prime Minister, Silvio Berlusconi, has been acquitted of attempting to bribe a judge after a marathon court case that #39;s divided the nation.


Chip Shots Over for Chip Investors

Figuring out which way the winds are blowing in the chip sector just got harder. Recent news suggests the all-encompassing rally off the September lows has ended and the sector #39;s investors will have to be much more selective going forward.


Drop in flat-panel prices to end, AU Optronics says

AU Optronics Corp (  ), the world #39;s third-largest maker of flat-panel displays used in computers and televisions, expects the decline in screen prices that began earlier this year to come to an end as demand rebounds.


'Distribution System Is Not Working'

A week into one of  South Asia's most devastating disasters in history, an international campaign to help Indonesia recover has at last moved into gear. But from the airport on, the distribution system slapped together has proved spotty at best.


College Basketball Wrap: Okla. State Vs UAB

STILLWATER, Okla. (Sports Network) - Joey Graham scored 20  points and grabbed seven rebounds to lead fifth-ranked Oklahoma  State to an 86-73 win over Alabama-Birmingham at Gallagher-Iba  Arena.


The Logic Behind a Sprint/Nextel Deal

Anyone who has followed the telecom market in recent years knows that this hypercompetitive industry is badly in need of consolidation.


MOUSE HOUSE FLICK IN WORKS

The classic power struggle between Walt Disney Co. CEO Michael Eisner and former feared talent agent Michael Ovitz makes for high drama in the courtroom - and apparently on cable.


Woods, Montgomerie match 66s, share lead

Tiger Woods and Colin Montgomerie managed a little separation from those in pursuit Friday, each riding tournament-best rounds of 66 to a two-shot lead midway through the Target World Challenge at Sherwood Country Club.


Angels fit Finley into their plans

Six years ago, Steve Finley set out to reshape his physique. He began an unorthodox exercise regimen that involved lifting no weight heavier than 50 pounds, a program designed


Mourinho is happy Premiership play their cards right

CHELSEA manager Jose Mourinho loves the rough and tumble of English football, believing a player has to  quot;lose control quot; to get sent off.