New cell phone can predict your next move

A cell phone is on the way that reportedly is so smart it can predict what you are about to do. According to research in the journal New Scientist, the phone learns about the things


Wake Forest Doesn #39;t Need Star to Shine to Shine On

A poor first half and an off night from its star guard were not enough to derail the No. 1 team in the country. Wake Forest proved a couple of things last night at Madison Square Garden: that


How can owners of suspended players regroup after brawl fallout?

The Melee in Motown between the Pacers and Pistons didn #39;t only shake up the NBA, it laid waste to many a fantasy team #39;s chances this season.


No. 2 LSU 64, No. 22 Maryland 51

Sylvia Fowles had 18 points and 18 rebounds, and Seimone Augustus added 23 points to lead No. 2 LSU to a 64-51 victory over No. 22 Maryland in the opening game of the Coors Classic on Friday night.


No. 13 Michigan State Nudges Utah 56-54 (AP)

AP - Kristin Haynie made a coast-to-coast layup with 2 seconds left to give No. 13 Michigan State a 56-54 victory over Utah in the first round of the Rainbow Wahine Classic on Friday.


Hastert Launches A Partisan Policy (washingtonpost.com)

washingtonpost.com - In scuttling major intelligence legislation that he, the president and most lawmakers supported, Speaker J. Dennis Hastert last week enunciated a policy in which Congress will pass bills only if most House Republicans back them, regardless of how many Democrats favor them.


Abkhaz MPs back election 'winner'

The parliament of Georgia's breakaway Abkhazia region says the opposition candidate won presidential elections.


Ohio Turnpike Workers May Stike

Hoping to avoid a situation like that in Pennsylvania , representatives of the Ohio Turnpike Commission and unionized workers are continuing contract negotiations.


A Union Threatens to Strike at Canada Post

By Bloomberg News. Employees representing 4 percent of the work force of Canada Post, the government-owned letter carrier, have threatened to strike by Dec. 8 unless they receive improvements in health benefits and job security.


T-Wolves Spoil Debut of Grizzlies Coach (AP)

AP - Lionel Hollins lost his debut as interim coach of the Grizzlies, with Kevin Garnett getting 26 points and 15 rebounds and Latrell Sprewell adding 22 points to lead the Minnesota Timberwolves over Memphis 115-90 Friday night.


Orlando Magic Waylays Atlanta Hawks 117-99 (AP)

AP - Steve Francis scored 29 points and No. 1 draft pick Dwight Howard added a career-high 24 in his homecoming as the Orlando Magic beat the Atlanta Hawks 117-99 Friday night.


GE Gives Airline Help On Leases

ARLINGTON, Va. - US Airways Group said Friday that it has reached agreement with General Electric Co. on aircraft leasing and financing terms to help the airline lower costs and reduce debt as it seeks to avoid liquidation.


Shoppers line up for  #39;Black Friday #39; sales

called  quot;Black Friday quot; because retailers hope it will kick off hot seasonal sales that will put them in the black for the year -s alive and well in the Jupiter area.


US stocks end higher

Stocks inched higher on Friday in lackluster post-Thanksgiving trading, helped by steel producers amid concerns of a steel shortage and retailers as consumers piled into stores at the start of the holiday-shopping season.


Poutianen Wins Aspen GS

ASPEN - Finn Tanja Poutianen won the second giant slalom of the season Friday, holding off defending World Cup champ Anja Paerson of Sweden by 0.09 seconds.


No. 3 Georgia Tech 79, Arkansas-Little Rock 54

Georgia Tech was in no mood to celebrate this victory, not after a sickening injury to one of its most promising players. BJ Elder scored 23 points and the third-ranked Yellow Jackets started


Japan, ASEAN to outline antiterrorism cooperation

Top leaders of Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are set to adopt a statement next week in Laos outlining antiterrorism cooperation among their police forces, according to Japanese Foreign Ministry.


Flash Floods Kill 11 in Central Vietnam (Reuters)

Reuters - Flash floods triggered by Typhoon Muifa\have killed at least 11 people in central Vietnam, officials\said on Saturday.


Italian Government OKs Income Tax Cuts (AP)

AP - The Italian government approved  #36;8.6 billion in tax cuts for 2005 Saturday, state radio reported, ending partisan debate that at one point had prompted Premier Silvio Berlusconi to threaten to resign.


North Australian Aboriginal community under heavy guard after rioting (AFP)

AFP - An Aboriginal community in northern Australia is calm and under heavy guard after the death of a young indigenous man in police custody triggered riots.


Simmering Trade Disputes Will Greet Bush in Canada

Chief among the trade disputes on the table will be a disagreement over the United States' 27 percent duty on Canadian softwood lumber.


Terror Case Hinges on a Wobbly Key Player

By setting himself on fire outside the White House, a Yemeni man with a checkered past has damaged what may be the biggest terrorism financing case in this country.


#39;Black Friday #39; brings crowds to local stores

VISTA ----  quot;The biggest shopping day of the year quot; are seven words that can send agoraphobics, those folks with fears of crowds and public places, into panic attacks.


Not Buying Into Shopping #39;s Big Day

To most weary shoppers, it #39;s known as Black Friday, the semiofficial start of the holiday retail season. But to hundreds of regional residents and countless others worldwide


Stocks show mixed results in short session

NEW YORK - Stocks finished mixed in post-holiday trading Friday as Wall Street meandered through a shortened session. The major indexes ended the week higher as investors looked forward to the results of the


Swiffer Sweep-Vac Recalled

The company that makes a popular battery operated vacuum cleaner has announced a voluntary recall of the product. Procter and Gamble says their Sweep-Vac by Swiffer could overheat and possibly catch fire.


Russia about to face France

Russia will meet defending champion France in the Fed Cup final after they both achieved 5-0 sweeps of Austria and Spain, respectively, in the semifinals on Thursday.


Ohno, Yang Take Golds in Short Track

Yang, Yang, left, of China takes an outside turn against Alison Baver (47) of Reading, Penn., during the 1,500-meter finals at the World Cup Short Track Speed Skating competition in Madison, Wis.


Francis, Howard Lead Magic Past Hawks

ATLANTA, Nov. 26 (Ticker) -- Steve Francis and rookie Dwight Howard made the defense of the Atlanta Hawks look like it wasn #39;t there.


No. 1 Wake Forest 63, No. 18 Arizona 60

Justin Gray scored 21 points for the second straight game and the top-ranked Demon Deacons beat No. 18 Arizona 63-60 on Friday night in the championship game of the 16-team tournament, a game that had a March feel to it in late-November.


Prince Harry denies reports of high jinks

Aides say that Argentinian press reports that Prince Harry of Britain spent his time in the country nightclubbing and getting drunk are pure fiction.


Pistons Cool Off Heat 78-77 (AP)

AP - Richard Hamilton caught an inbounds pass under the basket and banked in a short shot with 1.3 seconds left, giving the Detroit Pistons an 78-77 win over Miami on Friday night as the Heat lost for the first time in nine games against Eastern Conference opponents.


Suns Sting Hornets 95-86 (AP)

AP - Shawn Marion had a season-high 33 points and 15 rebounds, leading the Phoenix Suns on a fourth-quarter comeback despite the absence of Steve Nash in a 95-86 win over the New Orleans Hornets on Friday night.


Burma Pledges to Stick with Democracy  #39;Road Map #39;

Military-ruled Burma says it will stick with its road map to democracy despite the juntas recent purge of the prime minister who proposed it, but is ducking questions on when pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi will go free.


Nine in custody after riot

POLICE on Palm Island fear fresh violence today following nine arrests in the wake of yesterday #39;s riot over a death in custody.


2 Mexico City Cops Accused in Mob Killing (AP)

AP - Federal investigators said Thursday that two Mexico City police and 27 other people face homicide charges in the horrific vigilante killings of two federal agents this week.


Rivals in Ukraine Agree to Negotiate Over Vote

The two candidates claiming to be president-elect agreed to negotiations, the first sign of an easing of tensions that have risked leading the nation toward civil war.


17 Iraqi Parties Pressing For Delay in Elections

Groups fear that a vote amid persistent violence and a boycott by Sunnis would deprive the results of legitimacy.


ECB's Chief: Dollar-Euro Moves Unwelcome

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (Reuters) - The recent surge in theeuro currency is unwelcome and the U.S. Treasury's commitmentto a strong dollar is important, European Central BankPresident Jean-Claude Trichet said on Friday.


#39;RIL board rejected Anils contention #39;

Mumbai: The board of directors of Reliance Industries Ltd had considered the letter written by Anil Ambani, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, regarding the decision taken at the July 27 board meeting on powers and authorities of the CMD.


Pistons end skid, defeat Heat, 78-77

Miami #39;s first loss to an Eastern Conference team after eight tries came at the hands of the struggling Pistons. Using a shot by Richard Hamilton with 1.3 seconds left, the Pistons ended


Balanced attack

NEW YORK -- It was an exhausting, gut-wrenching victory against a nationally-ranked opponent, the type that elicits a high lasting far longer than the plane-ride home.


College Basketball: Georgia Tech Strolls to Win

ATLANTA (Sports Network) - BJ Elder scored 23 points, Isma #39;il Muhammad added 13 and No. 3 Georgia Tech rolled to a 79-54 victory over Arkansas-Little Rock at Alexander Memorial Coliseum.


DUP studies devolution proposals

The Democratic Unionist Party #39;s executive has given its unanimous approval to leader Ian Paisley as he enters the final stage of talks aimed at restoring devolution to Northern Ireland.


A Fast-Track Coach Hops Off at Princeton

Instead of pursuing a glamour conference, Joe Scott moved to the Ivy League, where players often are more talented in the classroom than they are on the basketball court.


Update 7: WTO Approves Sanctions on US Exports

The World Trade Organization gave the go-ahead Friday for punitive sanctions on US exports from lobsters to industrial equipment because Washington has yet to comply with a two-year-old order to repeal a trade law that uses penalties collected from


South Korea's president to replace six ministers in reshuffle (AFP)

AFP - South Korean President Roh Moo-Hyun is to conduct a cabinet reshuffle to replace six ministers, aides said.


AUSSIES CONTINUE TO DOMINATE

Justin Langer hit a double-century as Australia continued to pile on the runs on the second day of the second Test against New Zealand in Adelaide.


Buying Holiday Cheer, For Less

Holiday shoppers, intent on finding bargains, descended on the region's shopping centers Friday. But, in what could be a worrisome sign for retailers, many consumers vowed to watch their wallets closely.


Microjets Catch the Eye of Wealthy Travelers

A group of entrepreneurs backed by the likes of Bill Gates and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. are building tiny jets that cost a small fraction of what corporate executives and celebrities pay for luxury Learjets and Gulfstreams.


Discounts Benefit Oil Producers

During a year of high oil prices that have boosted energy company profits, the U.S. government continues to dole out millions of dollars in discounts to oil producers under a program created when prices were low.


FAA Must Improve Oversight of Hazardous Materials, Report Says

The Federal Aviation Administration needs to improve its oversight of air carriers and passengers who bring hazardous materials onto airplanes, according to a report released yesterday by the Department of Transportation's inspector general.


EBay Home Building

From air filters and appliances to sinks and shingles, one could conceivably build an entire house using supplies and tools bought at eBay.


Fresh Look at Vaccines

This season's flu-shot shortage is enticing companies to enter a market that others have largely abandoned because of poor profits.


No Black Friday blues as green flows like wine

An accident has slowed Jacqueline Walker #39;s holiday shopping this year, but it couldn #39;t keep her away from the deals on Friday.


Air-cargo hazard detection criticized

Eight years after an illegal shipment of oxygen generators caused the deadly crash of ValuJet Flight 592, the federal program for monitoring hazardous shipments aboard


WR Grace may soon be indicted

Bankrupt specialty chemicals firm says it is likely to be indicted for violating environmental laws. NEW YORK (Reuters) - WR Grace  amp; Co.


RCMP search Montreal #39;s Imperial Tobacco

MONTREAL - The RCMP searched through documents at Imperial Tobacco on Friday related to the contraband trade in cigarettes in the 1990s, Radio-Canada #39;s all-news channel reported.


Nicaragua Can't Confirm Tourists' Status (AP)

AP - Nicaraguan officials said late Friday that they're still unsure what's become of an American and a Briton who disappeared 10 days ago while attempting to climb a volcano.


Langer continues charge

Justin Langer scored his third career double Test century as Australia continued to pile on the runs in the second Test against New Zealand.


London tries to duck mud clinging to Slavkov

Officials for London #39;s 2012 games bid are hoping that the International Olympic Committee #39;s decision to recommend the expulsion of a Bulgarian member alleged in a BBC programme to be involved in corruption will not undermine its bid.


Sports ; England cricketers finally arrives in Zimbabwe

The whole tour was thrown into question earlier this week when the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) told the team to remain in South Africa after Zimbabwe authorities barred 13 British journalists.


NBA Game Summary - Memphis At Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN -- Kevin Garnett shot 11-of-15 for 26 points to go with 15 rebounds as the Minnesota Timberwolves trounced the deflated Memphis Grizzlies, 115-90, at the Target Center.


Turning the Paige: It #39;s now Mizzou Arena

The University of Missouri board of curators on Friday voted to rename the Columbia campus basketball arena Mizzou Arena, severing the connection between the posh sports facility and allegations of cheating at a university 1,700 miles away.


Colts thrive during grueling four-game stretch

Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Montae Reagor could feel the weariness long before Thursday #39;s game at Detroit. The constant hits, the barrage of meetings, the quick pivots from game plan to game plan had already worn down his body and mind.


NCAA Game Summary - Arkansas-Little Rock at Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech freshman Jeremis Smith left the game with a right knee injury near the end of the game...UALR #39;s Richard Hardman led all players with 13 rebounds...Freeman was just 1-of-9 from three-point territory...Georgia Tech improved to 4-0 all-time


Man Held Over China School Deaths (Reuters)

Reuters - Chinese police have arrested a\21-year-old man suspected of stabbing eight teenagers to death\as they slept in a school dormitory, the latest in a wave of\school attacks in China, state media said on Saturday.


Man held over China school deaths

Chinese police have arrested a 21-year-old man suspected of stabbing eight teenagers to death as they slept in a school dormitory, the latest in a wave of school attacks in China, state media say.


Asia ; Indonesian quake kills at least 13, many injured

Asia News, JAKARTA - The death toll from a powerful earthquake that rocked the easternmost Indonesian province of Papua rose to 13, with officials fearing more bodies would be uncovered as many victims were reportedly trapped under house debris, officials


No. 13 Maryland Tops No. 25 Memphis 84-61 (AP)

AP - John Gilchrist had 16 points, 10 rebounds and led a scrappy defense that helped No. 13 Maryland run past No. 25 Memphis 84-61 on Friday night.


Brown Explains Leaving

Grizzlies coach Hubie Brown cites health concerns and a loss of energy Friday as the reasons for announcing his retirement.


Olowokandi Still Out

Minnesota decides to suspend Michael Olowokandi for a second game after his arrest early Thursday morning for disorderly conduct.


Kicker Hall Returns

After missing five games with a right groin strain, the Redskins will activate place kicker John Hall for Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.


Mets Hire Down

Former Yankees hitting coach Rick Down was hired for the same job by the Mets Saturday, reuniting him with new manager Willie Randolph.


Mavs Hold Off Blazers

Marquis Daniels makes a series of late hustle plays to help Dallas defeat Portland, 92-83, on Friday.


American Hangs On

American improves to 3-1 on the season with a hard-fought overtime win, 74-63, against Loyala at Bender Arena on Friday night.


US Airways, 2 GE Units Propose New Financing

US Airways said yesterday that it agreed with units of General Electric Co. to defer lease payments on some aircraft and to cut the cost of engine maintenance as part of its restructuring under bankruptcy protection.


Wall Street Slogs Though Tepid, Short Session

NEW YORK , Nov. 26 -- Stocks finished mixed Friday in a shortened session. The major indicators ended the week higher as investors looked forward to the results of the first weekend of holiday shopping and a jobs report next week.


The Federal Aviation Administration needs to improve its oversight of air carriers and passengers who bring hazardous materials onto airplanes, according to a report released yesterday


Gregg against new drug safety office

US Sen. Judd Gregg said he #39;s not keen on the idea of creating an independent office to monitor drug safety, because it would create  quot;another layer of bureaucracy quot; at the Food and Drug Administration.


WR Grace Expects Indictment

WR Grace  amp; Co. disclosed yesterday that federal prosecutors were likely to indict the chemical and building material supplier during the first quarter of 2005 on charges related to environmental


Canadian police search Imperial Tobacco offices

Police have searched the Montreal headquarters of Imperial Tobacco Canada as part of an investigation into cigarette smuggling in the 1990s, the company says.


Rising Canadian dollars to test Canadian economy

The record surge in the value of the Canadian dollar is going to test the Canadian economy, financial analysts here warned. The Canadian dollar, after briefly rose above 85 US


India ; Kalam shows the moon as answer to energy problems

India News, MOON can be an immense source of solar energy and minerals, feels President APJ Abdul Kalam. Addressing the Sixth International Conference on Exploration and Utilisation of Moon in the Lake City


Kevin Garnett scores 26 points as the Timberwolves beat Memphis <b>...</b>

The Minnesota Timberwolves finally had some fun at the expense of a team going through a coaching change. Lionel Hollins lost his debut as interim coach of the Grizzlies, with Kevin Garnett


Pacers 82, Bobcats 77

Fred Jones scored eight of his 23 points in the final 2:30 to rally the Pacers from a six-point deficit in an 82-77 win over the Charlotte Bobcats on Friday night.


No. 19 Alabama Tops Minnesota 78-72 (AP)

AP - Earnest Shelton made five 3-pointers and scored 29 points to lead No. 19 Alabama over Minnesota 78-72 in the semifinals of the Great Alaska Shootout on Friday night.


10 reasons elections in Iraq will succeed

from Britain, Australia, America, and countless other countries -- will be in action to make Iraq safer. In


I-AA Playoffs Open With a Virginia Flavor

Today's Virginia-Virginia Tech showdown in Blacksburg won't be the only college football game in the Commonwealth with high-stakes implications. Three teams from Virginia play first-round games in the Division I-AA playoffs today, including a top-25 matchup between No. 6 William   Mary and No. 11 Hampton at Zable Stadium in Williamsburg.


New Orleans Center Breaks Finger (AP)

AP - New Orleans center Jamaal Magloire broke his right ring finger in the final minute of Friday night's 95-86 loss to the Phoenix Suns.


Wirdheim off to America

Sweden #39;s Bjorn Wirdheim, who was Jaguar Racing #39;s test and reserve driver will not be continuing with Red Bull Racing. Wirdheim had been due to run in the test at Barcelona and at Jerez but the team has now decided to continue with Vitantonio Liuzzi.


Slavkov Suspended By IOC

The Executive Committee of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has unanimously recommended that Ivan Slavkov, chairman of the Bulgarian Olympic Committee, be suspended.


Injured Shoulder Forces Bowe to Back Out of Bout

Riddick Bowe plans to return to the ring in January or February after a shoulder injury forced him to call off a fight this weekend.


Dawgs and Jackets at it again

ATLANTA - Today in Athens, Georgia and Georgia Tech resume the states most bitter rivalry for the 96th time (if you believe Georgia) and the 98th time (according to Tech).


NBA Game Summary - Miami at Detroit

Auburn Hills, MI (Sports Network) - Richard Hamilton banked home a shot over the outstretched arm of Shaquille O #39;Neal with 1.3 seconds remaining, lifting Detroit to a 78-77 victory over Miami at the Palace.


Bush works for peace in Northern Ireland

CRAWFORD, Texas President Bush says he #39;ll do  quot;anything quot; he can to help keep the Northern Ireland peace process moving forward.


No. 6 Notre Dame Tops USC 60-56 (AP)

AP - Jacqueline Batteast scored 18 points and No. 6 Notre Dame survived a scare from unranked Southern California before rallying for a 60-56 victory Friday night.


Shoppers bolt for bargains

By CHIP GUY, RICHARD SINE and TED GRIFFITH / The News Journal. Janet Selden wasn #39;t sure she could do it this year. In the early morning hours Friday, the 50-year-old Brandywine Hundred resident thought seriously


Proxy battle taking shape in bid to wrest control of board

LOS ANGELES (CBS.MW) -- The bitter battle for control of PeopleSoft Inc. has taken a new turn, with Oracle Corp. declaring its intent to stage a proxy fight that would sweep away the board members standing in the way of its \$9.2 billion hostile takeover.


United asks judge to block repossession of 10 planes

United Airlines Inc., under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection since 2002, called an emergency hearing today in Chicago to stop a group of creditors from repossessing 10 of its planes.


The race is on for Red Bull seats

Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz still needs a bit of time to make a decision about his driver line-up for the upcoming season. The Austrian recently took over the Jaguar Formula One team.


For the sake of cricket

THE IMPASSE between the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and a number of its players could have serious repercussions for West Indies cricket.


Terps #39; speed overwhelms Memphis

The 13th-ranked Terps ran No.25 Memphis into submission 84-61 in the Basketball Hall of Fame Tip-Off Classic at Springfield Civic Center.


NBA #39;s assists leader Nash injured against

PHOENIX -- Phoenix guard Steve Nash, the NBA #39;s assist leader, sustained a concussion Friday night and sat out the second half of the Suns #39; 95-86 victory over New Orleans.


Dollar Struggles to Extend Recovery (Reuters)

Reuters - The dollar struggled on Tuesday to extend\its recovery against the euro from a record low hit last week,\as the market eyed a deeper decline in the U.S. currency in the\near-term.  The unexpectedly quick rebound in the dollar\against the euro at the start of 2005 caught some traders off\guard and left the market cautious about selling the U.S.\currency.


Notre Dame 60, USC 56

Jacqueline Batteast scored 18 points and sixth-ranked Notre Dame survived a scare from unranked Southern California before rallying for a 60-56 non-conference win Friday.


Salvation Army tradition in danger

By ROBIN BROWN. After three decades as a volunteer Salvation Army bell ringer, 64-year-old James  quot;Sonny quot; Rosel keeps thinking of retiring.


MARTHA BACKERS DUMP BIG STAKE

The two biggest shareholders in Martha Stewart #39;s company have been quietly cashing out - raising speculation that a surprise deal could be brewing while she #39;s sitting in prison.


NBA #39;s Assists Leader Nash Injured Against

PHOENIX - Phoenix guard Steve Nash, the NBA #39;s assist leader, sustained a concussion Friday night and sat out the second half of the Suns #39; 95-86 victory over New Orleans.


ASEAN officials prep for economic accord

VIENTIANE - Senior officials of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations made final preparations on Thursday for ASEAN leaders to sign at their summit here next Monday an agreement on accelerating economic integration in the region.


Hamilton #39;s Late Basket Lifts Pistons Over Heat

Richard Hamilton banked in the winning shot with 1.3 seconds remaining as the Detroit Pistons edged the Miami Heat 78-77 in Auburn Hills on Friday.


Holiday leftovers: plenty of QB questions

Joey Harrington is still a starting quarterback. Drew Henson apparently is back to being a future starter. And Chad Hutchinson is looking like a starter by default.


COL BKB: Maryland 84, Memphis 61

Nik Caner-Medley scored 17 points Friday night to send No. 14 Maryland to an easier-than-expected, 84-61 win over 24th-ranked Memphis.


Kings Edge Lakers 109-106 (AP)

AP - Peja Stojakovic scored 26 points and made four consecutive free throws in the closing seconds Friday night to lead the Sacramento Kings their seventh straight win, 109-106 over the Los Angeles Lakers.


Chinese police arrest school stabbings suspect

Yan Yanming has been arrested in Ruzhou, central Henan province, when his mother turned him in to police after he attempted suicide at home.


Delay in Jan. vote sought

BAGHDAD - Leading Iraqi politicians called Friday for a six-month delay in the Jan. 30 election because of the spiraling violence as US forces uncovered more bodies in the northern city of Mosul, apparent


Iraq parties urge delay of election

Some of Iraq #39;s most powerful political groups, including the party led by the interim prime minister, called Friday for a six-month delay in elections scheduled for Jan. 30, citing concerns over security.


No. 10 Duke Tops Stephen F. Austin 84-29 (AP)

AP - Monique Currie scored 22 points to lead No. 10 Duke to an 84-29 victory over Stephen F. Austin in the opening round of the Junkanoo Jam on Friday night.


Son's Iraq Experience Shapes Lawmaker (AP)

AP - Rep. Duncan Hunter says his son, a Marine artillery officer who has served in Iraq, asked him for two favors. One was to fix his Ford Bronco. The other was to stand firm in opposing an intelligence bill that would strip authority from the Pentagon.


Buried Gems of the PS1

These games aren't the best, nor are they the prettiest.  nbsp;Instead, these are the games I played with my friends - the games let us kick the ever-loving-crap out of each other in increasingly fascinating ways.  nbsp;These are the most original head-to-head sleeper hits on the Sony Playstation. Just some fun stuff you might've missed the first time around.


Fresh Look at Vaccines

This season's flu-shot shortage is enticing companies to enter a market that others have largely abandoned because of poor profits.- The Washington Post


Building a House With  EBay, Piece by Piece

A growing number of people are turning to the online auction site not for knickknacks and trinkets, but for serious hardware and building materials.- The Washington Post


WTO OKs sanctions on US products

In a trade dispute that could spread to one of Washington state #39;s biggest exports -- apples -- the World Trade Organization gave the go-ahead yesterday for punitive sanctions on US products.


It #39;s full speed ahead for Poutiainen

ASPEN, COLO. - Figuring she had no chance of catching the leader, Finland #39;s Tanja Poutiainen charged down the hill without fear.


Sony Lags Behind Demand for Flat TV's

Sony is having trouble meeting soaring demand for flat televisions as its assembly lines did not gear up quickly enough.


Global Chip Sales Rose 1.5 in October

Worldwide semiconductor sales rose a scant 1.5 percent in October, to \$18.8 billion from \$18.5 billion in September, as many chip users pared inventories.


New High-Tech Passports Raise Snooping Concerns

Privacy advocates say new passports that carry information in a computer chip will be vulnerable to electronic snooping.


ANOTHER VOICE To the medicine cabinet

Here #39;s something to consider on your way to the medicine cabinet this morning: One of the nation #39;s leading drug reviewers with the Food and Drug Administration told a congressional hearing last week that consumers are  quot;virtually defenseless quot; against


Mitsubishi Motors, Merrill Lynch to tie up -Nikkei

Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi Motors Corp (7211.T: Quote, Profile, Research) (MMC), Japan #39;s only loss-making car maker, and US brokerage firm Merrill Lynch (MER.


Fratello reportedly taking Grizzlies job

Mike Fratello will take over for the recently retired Hubie Brown, ESPN reported on Friday. Fratello, an analyst for TNT, flew to Memphis on Friday to meet with team officials.


Maryland runs circles around Memphis

COM. If Maryland is the sixth-best team in the ACC, then the league has teams capable of competing in the NBA, baby! The Terps put on a clinic in beating a talented Memphis team at the Hall of Fame Tip-Off Classic.


Iran, EU have reached new accords: Moussavian

LONDON, Nov 27 (IranMania) - Iranian delegation chief to the IAEA Board of Governors in Vienna, Hossein Moussavian said on Friday evening that Iran and Europe have reached a new agreement.


Early shoppers catch bargains

Early birds get bargains Treasure Coast shoppers get their holiday money #39;s worth on the biggest shopping day of the year. By Charlie Reed.


Fluctuating Oil Prices Force Consumers to Place Bets

All around the country, people like Jennie McCann are making bets on where global oil prices might be headed this winter. But Mrs.


U.S. Marines Mull Fallujah's Future (AP)

AP - At first glance, the U.S. Marines saw nothing extraordinary about a baby crib in the corner of a bombed-out house in Fallujah. But when Lance Cpl. Nick Fenezia threw back the blankets, a Kalashnikov rifle and bulletproof vest lay on the tiny mattress.


Bush phones Paisley in power sharing bid

US President George W Bush has telephoned the Rev Ian Paisley in a bid to help revive power sharing in Northern Ireland. Rev Paisley, 78, said he had  quot;a long and very useful conversation quot; with Mr Bush as Protestant


Burma #39;s prisoner release complete: source

Burma has completed its mass release of more than 9,000 jail inmates following a shake-up in the military-run regime. A prison source says that all 9,248 prisoners promised freedom have been released, although


WR Grace says federal indictment likely in early 2005 without <b>...</b>

WASHINGTON -- WR Grace  amp; Co. said Friday it is likely to be indicted in the first quarter of 2005 by a federal grand jury in Montana if it cannot reach a settlement with prosecutors over possible violations of federal environmental laws.


Mitsubishi Motors to Sell \$2 Bln of Loans to Merrill (Update1)

Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said it will sell \$2 billion of auto loans to Merrill Lynch  amp; Co. as part of a plan to help the automaker reduce debt.


Around The Nation

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia #39;s former chairman and largest outside holder, Jeffrey Ubben, sold more than half his stake in the company this month as the shares reached their highest price in more than two years.


Pampling clings to lead at Australian Open

Australia #39;s Rod Pampling recovered from a shaky start to Saturday #39;s third round of the centenary Australian Open to retain the outright lead going into the final day.


Randall saves his best for last

LSU quarterback Marcus Randall has never been able to nail down the quarterback job this season. But Friday against Arkansas, the fifth-year senior seized the day.


In our view: Violence in sports not acceptable

Commissioner David Stern has drawn a line on unacceptable behavior by players in the National Basketball Association. Whether he can keep it from being blurred or erased by the players union or a court decision remains to be seen.


More bodies found in Mosul

US forces uncovered more bodies in the northern city of Mosul on Friday, apparent victims of an intimidation campaign by insurgents against Iraq #39;s fledgling security forces.


Quakes rock Indonesia, 17 dead

At least 17 people were killed, over 130 injured and more than 300 homes destroyed Friday when an earthquake hit a town in Indonesia #39;s Papua province for the second time in nine months, officials said.


Iraq ; Briton Questioned in Kabul Over Role in UN Hostage Release

Iraq News, KABUL, A British freelance cameraman said yesterday he was detained by Afghan authorities for his role in the release of three UN hostages and came under pressure to sign a statement saying he was part of the kidnap gang.


Breeding success

Luiz Nasser just transferred an embryo from a pedigree  quot;donor quot; into the womb of an unwitting cow.


Software sector in Mass. lags

Massachusetts lost 121 software companies and 3,859 software-related jobs during the past year, according to an industry group's figures, suggesting that one of the most vibrant sectors of the 1990s has yet to join in the state's tepid economic recovery.


Ex-FleetCenter chief hits revival of Garden name

Resurrecting Boston Garden as a new name for the FleetCenter would be an empty gesture in sentimentality, the former chairman of the FleetCenter said yesterday.


WTO hits US with sanctions

The World Trade Organization imposed penalties yesterday on exports ranging from apples to textiles, escalating a trade dispute the Bush administration has tried to defuse by unsuccessfully urging Congress to repeal legislation aimed at protecting US steel makers.


Ex-chairman cashes in as Martha Stewart shares recover

Jeffrey Ubben, former chairman and the largest outside shareholder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Inc., sold more than half his stake in the company this month as shares reached their highest price in more than two years.


Texas downs A amp;M, pleas for BCS help

AUSTIN - Texas took care of its fiercest in-state rival and ensured at least one more week of bickering about the Bowl Championship Series.


Sonics Storm Past Nets

SEATTLE, Nov. 26 (Ticker) -- Despite Rashard Lewis #39; injury, Danny Fortson kept the Seattle SuperSonics on their surprising roll.


Wildcats stumble in 2nd half

NEW YORK - Arizona guard Salim Stoudamire tried all he could to get Arizona the upset win against No. 1 Wake Forest. No. 18 Arizona tried to go to him one last time in the waning seconds and trailing by one


ASU turns over Territorial Cup

Coughing up five turnovers, having a field goal blocked and playing without four suspended defensive players for part of the game, 18th-ranked ASU did all it could to hand back the Territorial Cup to underdog Arizona.


Iran backs down on uranium demand

Facing fierce international pressure, Iran backed off yesterday from its demand to be allowed to continue operating some uranium enrichment


UK urged to review terrorism laws

A UN committee asks the UK to review its policy of detaining terrorism suspects without trial.


In China, police detain man accused of killing up to 9 boys

BEIJING -- Police have detained a man accused of slashing as many as nine boys to death as they slept in their high school dormitory in central China, state media reported today.


In Italy, just about everyone's a doctor

ROME -- Yell for a doctor in an Italian moviehouse and you risk a stampede. Almost everybody here, it seems, is a ''dottore. quot;


Shoppers swarm stores across US

Shoppers swarmed America #39;s malls and stores yesterday, even before the sun rose, to grab early-bird deals on such hot items as flat-screen TVs and DVD players as the US holiday shopping season officially began.


FAA hit on control of hazardous materials

The Federal Aviation Administration must improve oversight of air carriers and passengers who bring hazardous materials onto planes, according to a report


Former Gurkhas killed in Baghdad

Four ex-Gurkhas working for a London-based security firm have been killed in an attack in Baghdad. The Foreign Office confirmed the Nepalese men were all former members of the famous Gurkhas but could give no further details of the attack.


Myanmar completes release of 9,000 prison inmates

YANGON (AFP) - Myanmar has completed its mass release of more than 9,000 inmates, a prison department source said, following a shake-up in the military-run regime.


Typhoon claims 11 lives

Hanoi - Vietnam #39;s death toll from flash floods triggered by Typhoon Muifa has risen to 11, officials said on Saturday. The deaths all occurred in central Vietnam, with Quang Ngai, Quang Nam and Thua Thien-Hue


Stores open doors to sales, surge

Retailers opened their doors before the sun rose yesterday, the official start of the holiday shopping season, tempting early risers with specials on a variety of items including flat-screen TVs and toys.


Man Utd confident of catching Chelsea

LONDON - Manchester United is confident it can catch up nine points on Premier League leaders Chelsea. First it has to win its third match in a row for the first time this season.


Six more bodies found in Mosul

US forces uncovered more bodies in the northern city of Mosul on Friday, apparent victims of an intimidation campaign by insurgents against Iraq #39;s fledgling security forces.


Chirac urges resumption of Ivory Coast peace talks

French President Jacques Chirac has urged all sides in Ivory Coast #39;s crisis to resume talks as he opened a summit of French-speaking countries snubbed by the Ivorian delegation.


I helped free hostages, says ex-BBC cameraman

A Kabul-based British hotelier and former BBC cameraman says that he acted as a go-between when a 830,000 ransom was offered to secure the release of three UN workers kidnapped in Afghanistan.


JFK, Bush, and the Canadian media

Last Monday, on the 41 st anniversary of the assassination of John F. Kennedy, a video game called JFK Reloaded was released for sale.


Finland #39;s Poutiainen is tough enough

With a fresh dusting of snow and the course bumpy and rutty, Colorado #39;s top two giant slalom skiers struggled Friday in the FIS World Cup women #39;s event.


Clippers Whack Warriors 98-87

Los Angeles Clippers #39; Chris Wilcox, middle, dunks as the Golden State Warriors #39; Troy Murphy, right, and Jason Richardson look on in the first half on Friday, Nov. 26, 2004, in Oakland, Calif.


More protests as Ukraine talks end without agreement (AFP)

AFP - Opposition supporters in Ukraine continue to block key government buildings, after the first meeting between two presidential rivals ended without agreement and amid opposition threats of "action" if the election dispute is not resolved within days.


Pampling Leads Australian Open (AP)

AP - Australia's Rod Pampling took a one-stroke lead into the final round of the centennial Australian Open, shooting a 3-over 74 on Saturday on The Australian Golf Club course.


Santos rose from the depths at UNH

The story does not begin until the quarterback hits rock bottom. There's a reason Ricky Santos, current big man on the University of New Hampshire campus, one of 16 finalists for the Walter Payton Award (given to the top offensive player in Division 1-AA), record-setting redshirt-freshman wonder, and Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year does not have his picture in ...


Kingpin

Hyping LeBron James as rightful inheritor of the NBA kingdom, some call the 19-year-old phenom King James. He proved himself a benevolent ruler last night at the sold-out FleetCenter when it took all the king's men for the Cavaliers to defeat the Celtics, 98-96.


A fortunate change

It was Monday Night Football the way it was meant to be played, minus Nicollette Sheridan.


Pope tries to warm Orthodox ties

The Pope reaches out to Orthodox Christians as he returns bones looted during the Crusades.


Mobile gaming takes off in India

\Gaming on the move is one of the fastest-growing activities amongst the tech-savvy in India, says a report.


Turnpike gate at SR 58 set to open Tuesday

AMHERST TOWNSHIP -- The Ohio Turnpike Commission said yesterday that the new SR 58 interchange will open as planned at noon Tuesday, unaffected by a labor dispute with the union that represents toll collectors and maintenance workers.


Day after Thanksgiving busy for yule tree farms

Danville -- Liesel and Jeff Ray, of Avon, followed tradition Friday morning when they left the house. No, they did not head to the nearest mall, hoping to be the first in line for Christmas bargains.


Investor Icahn joins Hollywood Video fray

The Hollywood Entertainment Corp. story took another twist Friday when New York-based investor Carl Icahn announced the purchase of approximately 8.4 percent of the Wilsonville-based company #39;s outstanding stock.


Business news briefs: 11/27/04

A Mylan Laboratories shareholder is suing the Canonsburg generic drug maker and its directors, saying they have failed their fiduciary obligations by not considering billionaire investor Carl Icahn #39;s \$20 per share offer for the company.


EDS, Microsoft blamed for crash

Electronic Data Systems Corp. and Microsoft Corp. were blamed by the United Kingdom #39;s pension and benefits agency for a computer crash that snarled payments across Britain.


They don #39;t consider that a riot in Brazil

What riot?  quot;An Argentine friend of mine was a little derisive of the Pacers-Pistons eruption, quot; says reader Mike Gaynes.  quot;He snorted,  #39;Is that what Americans call a riot?


SIZING UP SHAQ

STAT LINE: Shaquille O #39;Neal had 24 points, 17 rebounds and four blocked shots in 38 minutes Friday against the Pistons. POWER PLAY: The crowd buzzed with anticipation when fan favorite Darko Milicic caught the ball on the block with O #39;Neal on his back.


Historic USC feat would be unrivaled

No USC coach ever defeated his archrivals three consecutive years, but Pete Carroll is two weeks from history. With a victory over Notre Dame tonight and UCLA next week, Carroll


Nine bodies found near Mexican city

The bodies of nine people, including three federal agents, were discovered at two sites outside Cancun, Mexico, and police are blaming the killings on a drug turf war in the Mexican resort city.


US Airways lands GE financing deal

US Airways and its largest lender yesterday struck a new financing arrangement that could free up \$140 million while the strapped airline remains in bankruptcy -- but only if holdout unions agree to major cost cuts.


#39;Tis the season to stop, chop and roll

Nels Bergstrom loaded his wife and three children into a sport utility vehicle Friday morning and made the hourlong ride from his home in Delaware County to Walker #39;s Christmas Tree Farm in Carbon County.


Johnson Set for New York Yankees Trade

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Arizona Diamondback pitcher Randy  Johnson appeared bound for the Big Apple Monday, after Major  League commissioner Bud Selig approved a deal that would send  the five-time Cy Young award winner to the Yankees.


WENGER STEPS ON THE GUUS

ANGRY Arsene Wenger last night branded Guus Hiddink  quot;appalling quot; after launching a bitter counter attack against his managerial rival.


Court Kings

The familiar faces went their separate ways over the summer, the rivalry was declared dead more than a month ago, and all those years of accumulated magic came to a crashing end in the final minute Friday night.


English cricket team arrives in Harare

The English Cricket team has defended its decision to go ahead with its controversial tour of Zimbabwe. Africa correspondent Sally Sara reports, the team has arrived in the Zimbabwean capital Harare.


They'll take a wait-and-see approach

While some injured Patriots were either practicing or working out yesterday, coach Bill Belichick said it was too early to tell if they'd be available for tomorrow's game with the Ravens.


Given chance, West a contributing factor

Delonte West was in uniform last night at the FleetCenter, after the Celtics activated the rookie point guard for the first time this season and placed forward Justin Reed (left hip pointer) back on the injured list. Although not fully recovered from the fractured right thumb he suffered the day before the season opener, West felt good enough to play.


Transactions

BASEBALL New York (NL): Named Rick Down hitting coach and Tom Nieto catching instructor. BASKETBALL Boston (NBA): Activated G Delonte West from the injured list; placed F Justin Reed on the injured list. Philadelphia (NBA): Activated G Aaron McKie from the inujred list; placed G Kevin Ollie on the injured list.


Today's schedule

College basketball: MEN -- Harbor Invitational at Dorchester, 1 and 3 p.m.; Northeastern at Harvard, 2 p.m.; MIT at Suffolk, 2 p.m.; WOMEN -- Wagner at BU, 1 p.m.; Dartmouth at Fairfield, 1 p.m.; Hartford at Central Conn., 2 p.m.; BC at UMass, 4 p.m.


Players dismiss security worries

Given nearly a week to examine the security issues raised by the now-infamous brawl between players and fans in Auburn Hills, Mich., Nov. 19, the Celtics returned to the FleetCenter last night with two losses and few concerns about their on-court safety.


Sharing wealth was golden idea

Kindergarten must have been good to LeBron James. With sharing at the top of that year's lesson plan, James might have collected a lot of gold stars for his behavior.


Fed Need Not Move on Inflation Wiggles

Central banks should not respond to every wiggle from inflation as they seek steady prices and the  quot;too big to fail quot; mantle enjoyed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac pose a threat to financial stability, St.


Prioritizing NASA

NASA administrator Sean O #39;Keefe seems bent on overstating popular support for President Bush #39;s space agenda. He did it again this week, pointing to this year #39;s \$16.2-billion budget as proof that Congress is


DODD LEADS DESPITE TRIPLE BOGEY

Stephen Dodd paid a heavy price for one shot in his third round of the Volvo China Open in Shanghai on Saturday - but at the end of it the 38-year-old Welshman was still on course for his first European Tour victory.


Men: Nation #39;s best wins NIT by holding off Arizona

Justin Gray scored 21 for the second straight game as No.1 Wake Forest beat No.18 Arizona 63-60 for the Preseason NIT title Friday.


Buffaloes beat Huskers, turn eye to Tigers

Lincoln, Neb. - When the heavy lifting was over, Colorado wide receiver Dusty Sprague had one very important question.  quot;Hey, do you know what the Missouri fight song is?


Police arrest nine after Australian island riot

Police arrested nine people on a remote Australian island on Saturday after about 200 islanders protesting against the death of a man in custody burnt down a police station, police residence and a courthouse.


California's New Stem-Cell Initiative Is Already Raising Concerns

Medical ethicists are concerned that the \$3 billion that California approved for embryonic stem cell research could become a bonanza for private profiteers.


Ready, set, shop

THE GAZETTE. But this is a different sacred day: Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, the high holy day of American consumerism.


Mitsubishi Motors, Merrill Lynch tie up over US auto loans

Troubled Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors Corp. is to tie up with Merrill Lynch and Co. in North American financing operations as part of its business rehabilitation efforts.


Computer crash hits pensions

THOUSANDS of pensioners and people on benefits have been hit by a massive computer failure at the Department for Work and Pensions.


Famitsu Reveals All

Popular Japanese gaming magazine, Famitsu, seems to have gathered the juiciest bits of gossip regarding Nintendo in its latest issue.


UW Men Play in Alaska Shootout Semifinals

The 22nd-ranked Washington Huskies (2-0) remain in Anchorage for the second of three consecutive games in the Great Alaska Shootout at Sullivan Arena.


Iraq's Allawi Takes Call-In Questions (AP)

AP - Interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi simply smiled during the live television show when a man called to praise terrorist mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. The Iraqi leader then moved on, offering to find information about a woman's detained son and see why a student didn't get into the graduate program of his choice.


US troops clash with Iraqi rebels

Iraqi insurgents reportedly occupy a government building in the town of Khalis before being driven out by US troops.


U.S. Soldier Killed in Roadside Bomb Blast

Insurgents detonated a the bomb, shortly after dawn, next to a U.S. tank patrol north of Baghdad on Saturday.


North Korea Reactor Plan Suspended  Until 2005

NEW YORK, Nov. 26 -- An international consortium said Friday that it has extended for another year a freeze on a project to build two light-water nuclear reactors in North Korea.


Ex-Venezuelan Police Chiefs Seek Asylum

Two former Caracas police chiefs requested asylum at El Salvador's embassy Friday amid investigations into their handling of violent 2002 protests that left 19 people dead, their lawyer said.


Court affirms denial of Wal-Mart workers #39; class-action suit

PANAMA CITY -- An appeals court has refused to reinstate class-action status for a lawsuit that sought to represent 230,000 Wal-Mart employees across Florida over allegations the company forced many of them to work without pay during breaks and after hours


Big game hunters off the hook for bison population crash

Big game hunters may be off the hook in the latest twist of a prehistoric whodunit that tries to explain why bison populations sharply crashed thousands of years ago.


Ten things we learned this week in the NBA

1. Item: At 71, Hubie Brown suddenly retired as coach of the Memphis Grizzlies Thursday night. Brown, who was 83-65 with the Grizzlies in parts of three seasons, said unexpected health issues were the cause


More groups call for delay in elections

Influential Sunni Muslim groups and Iraq #39;s two main Kurdish movements yesterday requested a delay in nationwide legislative elections set for Jan. 30, saying they feared


Army deserter released from jail

Accused US Army deserter Charles Jenkins, left, accompanied by his daughters, Mika, center, and Belinda, leaves Tokyo Women #39;s Medical University Hospital in Tokyo Saturday, Sept.


Russia finally grants visa to Dalai Lama

Russia said on Friday that it would give the Dalai Lama a visa, the first it has given the Buddhist leader in a decade, but rushed to reassure China it was not supporting his demands for Tibetan autonomy.


eBay drops Microsoft's Passport

SAN FRANCISCO - Online auctioneer eBay will stop supporting Microsoft's .Net Passport identification system by the end of January.


Americans flock to the stores

Americans stormed the nation #39;s stores on the day after Thanksgiving, the traditional start of the key holiday shopping season, lured by cut-price toys, consumer electronics and Santa.


Moon gas may bail out energy-sapped earth

A potential gas source found on the moons surface could hold the key to meeting future energy demands as the earths fossil fuels dry up in the coming decades, scientists said on Friday.


Irish eye No. 1-ranked Trojans

Snoop Dogg running deep post routs for Matt Leinart. Snoop Dogg rapping and giving a pep talk inside the locker room of the top-ranked USC Trojans.


More feared dead after quake in Indonesia #39;s Papua

A series of aftershocks in Indonesia #39;s remote Papua province on Saturday hampered rescue efforts a day after a major earthquake killed at least 13 people and injured 65.


Nine charged over Palm Island riot

Nine men have been charged over yesterday #39;s riot on Palm Island, in north east Australia. Hans Mick reports the community #39;s police station and court house were destroyed.


Toyota Plans to Open Russian Plant (Reuters)

Reuters - Toyota Motor Corp plans to build a\factory in the Russian city of St. Petersburg, the first local\production in that nation by any Japanese carmaker, company\officials were quoted by Kyodo news agency as saying.


Bush vows to work on WTO, blasts Airbus

CRAWFORD, Texas - President Bush pledged Friday to work with Congress to comply with a WTO ruling in a row over payment of anti-dumping duties to US companies, and said he expected the trade body to hold Europe to account over  quot;unfair quot; subsidies to


Havana halts EU 'cocktail wars'

Cuba restores contacts with eight EU embassies in Havana, ending a bitter row over "dissident cocktail wars".


Pampling retains Aussie Open lead

Richard Green holed two chip shots on Saturday to close within one stroke of fellow Australian Rod Pampling going into the final round of the centenary Australian Open golf championship.


Williams just won #39;t let it go

In the end, it wasn #39;t about holding on to the No. 1 ranking or the Preseason NIT title or even the game. For Wake Forest #39;s Eric Williams, it was just about holding on to the ball.


Southeast Asian Foreign Ministers Prepare for ASEAN Summit

Southeast Asian foreign ministers are finalizing a free trade agreement with China and a score of other accords in preparation for a summit meeting in Laos beginning Monday.


Search for corpses in ghost town

Tamil Tigers say 30,000 people are dead or missing in the north and east of Sri Lanka.


Treasuries Fall on Report China Cuts Back on US Debt Holdings

US 10-year Treasury notes fell for a fifth week after a report that a Chinese central bank official said his country trimmed its holdings of US government debt.


US Air secures funding and lease deal from GE

ARLINGTON, Virginia US Airways Group said Friday that General Electric, its largest creditor, had agreed to provide the bankrupt carrier with badly needed funds as it seeks to avoid liquidation.


Ancient hunters off the hook

Prehistoric hunters may be off the hook in the latest twist of a prehistoric whodunit that tries to explain why bison populations sharply crashed thousands of years ago.


Canadian rocket launch delayed until January

EDMONTON - When the Da Vinci Project rocket finally makes an attempt to fly into outer space next year, it will carry aloft a soccer ball once kicked by English footballer David Beckham and an Ellen DeGeneres doll dressed in a flight suit.


Pigeons homing instincts due to their magnetic beaks!

Scientist have always wondered how pigeons manage to be such good navigators and have a  #39;nose for the north #39; and now a new study has suggested that it is because they have small magnetic particles in their beaks, which helps them detect different magnetic


Pampling struggles but maintains lead

Irrespective of the conditions on day three of the Hillross Australian Open Championship, the Australian Golf Club #39;s layout was always going to provide a test of both game and character.


India feel pressure from home fans

Pressure is building on the Indian team from millions of home fans to deliver their first home Test series victory in two years when they take on South Africa in the second and final Test on Sunday.


NASA plans trip to Moon

With polls showing Americans desire of space exploration, NASA has received the green signal from Congress to carry out voyages to Moon and eventually to Mars.


PREVIEW-South Africa target rare series double in India

South Africa have shrugged off accusations of negative tactics before the second and final test against India which starts on Sunday.


Summary Box: Move to Ease Ethics Rules (AP)

AP - MOVE TO EASE ETHICS RULES: After Tom DeLay is snared in an ethics probe, House Republicans consider ways to make it harder to discipline members of Congress.


Dozens convicted in African coup plot

MALABO, Equatorial Guinea A court convicted dozens of alleged mercenaries from South Africa and Armenia on Friday and sentenced them to prison terms for an alleged coup plot.


Troops find more bodies in Mosul

US forces uncovered more bodies in the northern city of Mosul on Friday, apparent victims of an intimidation campaign by insurgents against Iraqs fledgling security forces.


Martha Stewart Shares Surge to High

Despite her confinement in a federal women #39;s prison, homemaking maven Martha Stewart might have something to be thankful for this holiday season, after all - shares of her media company bounced to their highest level in more than three years during


Now, peace moves in Reliance group

Senior industrialists, religious leaders and politicians have swung into action to mediate between the warring Ambani brothers, Mukesh and Anil, even as a Reliance Industries spokesperson on Friday ruled out chances of Mukesh dragging his brother to court


NASA moves forward with Bush #39;s moon and Mars plan

With a green light from Congress, NASA is moving swiftly to carry out President George W. Bush #39;s ambitious plan to return robots and humans to the moon and eventually to Mars.


Bush, Clinton to Lead Tsunami Fund Raising (AP)

AP - President Bush enlisted two former presidents for an ambitious private fund-raising drive for victims of the deadly tsunami on Monday, asking Americans to open their wallets to help the millions left homeless, hungry and injured.


No. 13 Maryland 84, No. 25 Memphis 61

Maryland kept stealing the ball, running for layups and hitting shots. Led by John Gilchrist, the No. 13 Terrapins dominated No. 25 Memphis.


Johnson Set for New York Yankees Trade (Reuters)

Reuters - Arizona Diamondback pitcher Randy\Johnson appeared bound for the Big Apple Monday, after Major\League commissioner Bud Selig approved a deal that would send\the five-time Cy Young award winner to the Yankees.


Ganguly to captain Asia in tsunami fundraising match (Reuters)

Reuters - India's Saurav Ganguly will captain Asia against the world eleven in next week's one-day international to raise funds for the victims of the Indian Ocean earthquake disaster.


Titans QB Faces Possible Shoulder Surgery (AP)

AP - The Tennessee Titans already have one quarterback recovering from surgery. They aren't in a hurry to operate on backup Billy Volek's throwing shoulder if they can avoid that.


Cingular to Sell Select Assets to Alltel

Cingular Wireless LLC agreed to sell and swap certain assets with Alltel Corp. for \$170 million in cash as part of the company #39;s required divestitures following Cingular #39;s acquisition of AT amp;T Wireless Services Inc.


FIC to Roll Out Linux Video Player (Ziff Davis)

Ziff Davis - FIC's "Vassili" includes a 3.6-inch color LCD screen and a 20GB hard drive, and can play multimedia content downloaded directly or via a TiVo


Computer crash to delay pension and benefit payments

Payments to tens of thousands of people who receive state pensions and benefits will be delayed after a computer crash at the Department of Work and Pensions.


Scientists create smart phone that doubles as your nanny

Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are working on software that will get to know you as well as your best mate - and even offers you advice.


Apple inventory update: iMacs, iPods in strong demand

Data reveals strong demand for Apple #39;s iMac G5 and iPod products as the holiday shopping season kicks off. PowerBooks and eMacs are approaching the end of their life cycle, recent Apple inventory data has revealed.


Nebraska #39;s loss is a bowl-breaker

Cedric Benson ran for 165 yards and a touchdown to lead the Longhorns over the Aggies in Austin, Texas. Vince Young added a touchdown run and 224 yards total for the Longhorns (10-1, 7-1 Big 12), who earned


The  #39;basketbrawl #39; in Detroit

We #39;re all taught in elementary school a universal principle:  quot;Two wrongs don #39;t make a right. quot;. What happened in the NBA game between the Detroit Pistons and the Indiana Pacers is a perfect example of how true that principle is.


Dodd Maintains China Open Lead (AP)

AP - Wales' Stephen Dodd overcame a triple bogey to shoot a 2-under 70 on Saturday and maintain a three-stroke lead after the third round of the China Open, the first event of the 2005 PGA European Tour schedule.


Tributes to tragic Gurkhas

The London-based security firm which employed four former Gurkhas killed in a rocket attack on their compound in Baghdad have paid tribute to them as  quot;brave and professional individuals quot;.


EU official says Darfur violence worse since pact inked

The EU #39;s aid chief said the violence in Sudan #39;s Darfur region had worsened since the government and rebels signed new security agreements two weeks ago.


Smith doubtful for second Test

South Africa captain Graeme Smith is a doubtful starter for the second Test match against India starting from Sunday in Kolkata.  quot;He hurt his foot in the morning.


It #39;s time for Christmas tree sales

Bob Lemos of Lemos Farm on Highway 92 near Half Moon Bay is optimistic about the Christmas tree season. He started selling trees last weekend, he said.


Alltel buying up Cingular castoffs

Alltel Corp. wasted little time in seizing opportunities created by last months Cingular Wireless-AT amp;T Wireless merger, announcing plans Friday to buy most of the assets that US regulators asked Cingular to sell.


Cuba Renews Contact With European Nations (AP)

AP - The Cuban government has resumed formal diplomatic contacts with eight European nations, including France, Germany and Britain, Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque said Monday.


Video watchdogs say almost all new games are M-rated

This season #39;s blockbuster video games give players the opportunity to hijack cars, mow down the walking undead with heavy artillery and ogle topless women.


Australia in total control over NZ

New Zealand were forced to endure another demoralising day in the field on Saturday and then lost two early wickets after Australia declared their first innings on a massive 575 for eight in the second Test.


Riot not premeditated: Palm Is leaders

Community leaders on Palm Island off north Queensland have rejected suggestions yesterday #39;s riot was premeditated. The community remains calm but tense, with police reinforcements sent to the island today.


Former rebel blasts Prabhakaran, wants India in peace process:

World News: Colombo, Nov 27 : Tamil Tigers chief Velupillai Prabhakaran was Saturday dubbed a Hitler by an aide-turned-foe who called for an Indian role in Sri Lanka #39;s fumbling peace process.


Myanmar frees 500 more prisoners

told Reuters on Thursday it was simply taking time to bring people to Yangon from around the country. where she is without a telephone and requires military permission to meet visitors.


Hooters Air brings flights to Rockford

Hooters Air will begin offering nonstop flights out of the Greater Rockford Airport in early 2005 to Denver, Atlanta and Las Vegas, officials said.


Pigeons homing instincts due to their magnetic beaks!:

World News: Washington, Nov 27 : Scientist have always wondered how pigeons manage to be such good navigators and have a  #39;nose for the north #39; and now a new study has suggested that it is because they have small magnetic particles in their beaks, which


SA skipper Smith suffers foot injury

Kolkata: South African skipper Graeme Smith suffered an injury to his left foot in a minor accident near the team hotel here today.


Turnpike Opts Against Waiving Tolls Sunday

November 27, 2004 - The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission says it lost 2 (M) million dollars on Wednesday when tolls were waived on the first day of the toll takers strike.


Stumps bounce back

Bee Garden Writer. Contrary to popular belief, Christmas tree farming is no longer a matter of clear-cutting stands of evergreens.


FDA Marks Thanksgiving With Two Approvals

Biotechnology and pharmaceutical stocks were nearly flat during the holiday-shortened week as two long-awaited drugs received Food and Drug Administration approval.


NYSE trading in takeover target #39;s shares halted

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Gold Fields Ltd. welcomed Friday a decision handed down by a South African appeals court that the company said temporarily blocks Harmony Gold Mining Ltd.


Mitsubishi may partner with Merrill

Mitsubishi Motors Corp, Japan #39;s only money-losing car maker, and US brokerage firm Merrill Lynch plan to set up a joint venture in North America, the Nihon Keizai Shimbun said Saturday.


Canada draws bead on Imperial Tobacco

Canadian authorities have raided the offices of Imperial Tobacco in their hunt for evidence of cigarette smuggling during the late 1980s and early 1990s.


Amar Singh urges Kokila Behn to resolve RIL issue

Samajwadi Party leader Amar Singh has appealed to Dhirubhai Ambani #39;s widow Kokilabehn to settle the differences between her sons Mukesh Ambani and Anil Ambani who run India #39;s largest private sector company.


Texas Beats A M, Lobbies for BCS Invite (AP)

AP - Moments after Texas beat Texas A amp;M, Longhorns coach Mack Brown was busying lobbying for an at-large bid to the Bowl Championship Series. No. 6 Texas (10-1, 7-1 Big 12) guaranteed at least another week of arguing over just who belongs in the BCS, beating Texas A amp;M 26-13 Friday.


U.S. Sends in Secret Weapon: Saddam's Old Commandos (Reuters)

Reuters - Twenty months after\toppling Saddam Hussein, U.S. troops still battling his\followers in the heart of Iraq's old arms industry are hitting\back with a new weapon -- ex-members of Saddam's special\forces.


Wake Forest Edges Arizona to Win NIT (AP)

AP - Justin Gray scored 21 points for the second straight game and No. 1 Wake Forest beat No. 18 Arizona 63-60 Friday night in the championship game of the 16-team Preseason NIT, a game that had a March feel to it in late November.


Bhutto's Husband Wants Fresh Election in Pakistan (Reuters)

Reuters - Former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir\Bhutto's husband said on Saturday only fresh elections and an\end to military rule could lead to a rapprochement between\Bhutto's party and President Pervez Musharraf.


Colts Thrive in Grueling Four-Game Stretch (AP)

AP - Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle Montae Reagor could feel the weariness long before Thursday's game at Detroit. The constant hits, the barrage of meetings, the quick pivots from game plan to game plan had already worn down his body and mind. But Reagor and his teammates never succumbed to the Colts' most grueling test of the season  #151; playing four games in 18 days.


Legendary venture capitalist looks ahead

Since founding Sequoia Capital in 1972, he #39;s helped nurture some of the Valley #39;s biggest successes, including Apple Computer, Cisco Systems, Electronic Arts and Oracle.


Name that tune -- then find it with GoFish (SiliconValley.com)

SiliconValley.com - A new search engine launches Monday aimed at helping music lovers find tunes across a growing number of online music stores.


Intel Slammed As Apple Becomes More Appealing

Tech stocks were mixed for the holiday week, with analyst revisions moving key sector players. Intel (nasdaq: INTC - news - people ) shares fell tumbled Tuesday after Credit Suisse First Boston lowered the


Death deluge makes forest mulch

The sudden boost trillions of cicadas dying en masse give to North American forests is apparent from a new study published in Science magazine.


A virtual disgrace

Regarding the creation of a John F. Kennedy assassination video  quot;game, quot;  quot;JFK Reloaded, quot; developed by Kirk Ewing for Traffic Games of Scotland: How truly unfortunate that this firm is so hard


Sony cornered by iPod fashion

Juliana Sasaki didnt bother checking out Sonys digital music player before buying her green iPod mini.  quot;I knew Sony and other companies had MP3 players, but they cant beat the mini, quot; says Sasaki, 23, a language teacher.


Hall of a time

November 27, 2004 -- Forget the hoopla over the newly reopened Museum of Modern Art. Hop on the 7 train to Flushing, Queens, and you can go to Mars or the ice moon Europa, just past Jupiter.


Researchers Develop 3-D Phone Technology

TOKYO - It #39;s an idea that was popularized by Princess Leia #39;s plea for help in Star Wars: sending a 3-D hologram. Now, two Japanese scientists have developed technology they hope will one day turn the humble


Germany Wins Women's Under-19 Soccer Title (AP)

AP - Germany won the FIFA Under-19 Women's World Championship on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over China.


Stepping out of shadows of WiFi (SiliconValley.com)

SiliconValley.com - Bluetooth -- a short-range wireless technology -- is finally coming of age.


Pakistani Troops Leaving Tribal Region (AP)

AP - The Pakistan army said Saturday it will withdraw hundreds of troops from a tense tribal region near Afghanistan where Osama bin Laden and his top deputy were believed to be hiding.


Bush visit, new relationship with U.S. fraught with political risk for Martin (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - OTTAWA (CP) - It's being likened to a roll of the dice.


Pampling tackles Open grill

GOLF has changed a lot in the 100 years since the captain of the Drouin Golf Club in Victoria, the Honourable Michael Scott, won the first Australian Open.


Mini China crisis for Stephen

STEPHEN DODD paid a heavy price for one slack shot in his third round of the Volvo China Open in Shanghai today. But after nine holes, the 38-year-old Welshman still led.


Nets #39; slide reaches eight

Throughout the day, dark clouds hovered above downtown Seattle, a fitting site for a Nets team off to one of its dreariest starts to a season.


Harry #39;s argy-bargy

PRINCE Charles has asked Scotland Yard for an in-depth report on his son Harry #39;s trip to Argentina after reports of excessive drinking and a kidnap plot.


Hunt for weapons cache

PREMIER Peter Beattie has appealed for calm on Palm Island, amid fears that hidden weapons and a large supply of alcohol could fuel more riots.


Telescope Buying Tips (SPACE.com)

SPACE.com - As we approach the holiday \  season, many people may consider the purchase of a telescope. You might already \  have seen telescope ads in newspapers, catalogues or on TV shopping channels. \  A typical ad might say something like this:


Artificial Gravity: A New Spin on an Old Idea (SPACE.com)

SPACE.com - Keeping an astronaut crew in tip-top shape during lengthy treks to and from distant Mars may demand portable gravity.


Army deserter Jenkins released in Japan

US Army deserter Charles Jenkins was released from military jail on Saturday after serving 25 days for abandoning his squadron in 1965 and defecting to North Korea, where he lived for nearly four decades.


Father hopes for Damilola justice

The father of Damilola Taylor remains confident four years after his son's murder that the killer will be caught.


Death deluge makes forest mulch

The sudden boost trillions of cicadas dying en masse give to North American forest soils is apparent from a new study.


Ukraine Parliament Says Run-Off Poll Invalid

Ukraine's parliament declared invalid the disputed presidential election, a non-binding move demonstrating the country's rising dissatisfaction with the outcome.


FireFox as a Security Risk Compared to IE?

A not-so anonymous Anonymous Coward asks:  quot;The administrator at my work gave me the following reason for not using Mozilla. What do you think?


New Kazaa version to offer free Internet-based phone calls

Sharman Networks Limited has launched Kazaa v3.0. This latest version includes the integration of Skype, which allows users to make free online calls anywhere in the world, using peer-to-peer (P2P) technology.


IAEA Diplomats See Agreement on Iran Next Week

The International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors has put off a resolution on Iran #39;s nuclear program until Monday, to allow more time for European countries and Tehran to finalize a deal to freeze Iran #39;s uranium enrichment program.


UN slams British jails

A United Nations anti-torture body has criticised Britain for the  quot;unsatisfactory quot; conditions in its prisons, including a  quot;substantial number of deaths in custody quot;, urging it to act at once to improve them.


Nawaz, Benazir agree on signing code of ethics

ISLAMABAD: PML-N leader Mian Nawaz Sharif has presented a proposal to PPP-P chairperson, Benazir Bhutto for signing a code of ethics by both the parties for the sake of beginning of new democratic era in the country and the latter has okayed the proposal.


WTO Imposes Penalties on US Exports

The World Trade Organization imposed penalties Friday on US exports ranging from apples to textiles, escalating a trade dispute the Bush administration has struggled to defuse by unsuccessfully


Wal-Mart Says November Sales Fell Short of Forecast; Rose 0.7

Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world #39;s largest retailer, estimated November sales at US stores open at least a year rose about 0.7 percent, less than its forecast, as the company scaled back


England players hit out

ENGLAND #39;S players hit out at cricket #39;s authorities last night. They claimed they had been used as  quot;political pawns quot; after the Zimbabwe government produced a spectacular U-turn to ensure the controversial one-day series will go ahead.


Wal-Mart Sees Nov. U.S. Sales Up 0.7 Pct (Reuters)

Reuters - Wal-Mart Stores Inc. , the\world's largest retailer, said on Saturday it expects a 0.7\percent increase in November sales at its U.S. stores open at\least one year, down from a forecast of 2 percent to 4 percent\a week ago.


Bonham and Hinchey: Fans and players alike should embrace civility

Last week #39;s basketball brawl in Detroit, triggered by an on-court fight that spilled into the stands when a fan tossed a drink, has set the sports world buzzing.


Unbeaten Inter take on Juventus

THERE can #39;t be many times when the only unbeaten team in the division goes into a match with the leaders with 15 points to make up.


APHC Real Kashmiri Representative: Islamabad

Islamabad, Nov. 27 (NNN) : Rejecting Indias assertion to the contrary, Pakistan has said that the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) is the real representative of Kashmiri people.


Tamil Tigers threaten to resume war

Sri Lanka #39;s feared Tamil Tiger rebels have threatened to resume a two-decade war for self-rule that killed more than 64,000 people if the government does not agree to discuss their demands soon.


UN urges UK to review foreign suspect detention policy

The United Nations Committee Against Torture has urged Britain to carry out a review of its policy of detaining foreign suspects indefinitely under anti-terrorism laws.


Kazaa under Big Music #39;s gun

p2pnet.net News:- With its renewed attacks on US p2p file sharers and its latest effort to turn Canada into another marketing and sales division going nicely, the Big Four music cartel are again turning their attention to Australia and Sharman Networks


Germany wins women #39;s under-19 soccer title; US is third

Germany won the FIFA Under-19 Women #39;s World Championship on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over China. The United States finished third, beating Brazil 3-0 in the earlier game.


Bhutto #39;s Husband Wants Fresh Election in Pakistan

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto #39;s husband said on Saturday only fresh elections and an end to military rule could lead to a rapprochement between Bhutto #39;s party and President Pervez Musharraf.


SA helped save Zim cricket tour

South African cricket played a key role in behind-the-scenes negotiations to save the England tour of Zimbabwe. The tour went ahead this week when the Zimbabwean government allowed the entire media contingent


Rough Reception for DNA Law

California voters approve an aggressive DNA-collection program -- basically anyone held in connection with a felony will be tested -- and that has privacy advocates worried. By Julia Scheeres.


Travel Upstarts Take on Top Sites

A new breed of specialty search engines promise to deliver the best bargains to travelers using the web to find the best airfares and accommodations. They're challenging established sites like Travelocity, Expedia and Orbitz.


Suit: Check Provisional Ballots

A watchdog group tries to stop an Ohio county's elections board from rejecting thousands of provisional ballots until they are hand checked against voter registration cards.


Mitsubishi Motors, Merrill Lynch tie up over US auto loans

TOKYO : Troubled Japanese automaker Mitsubishi Motors Corp. will tie up with Merrill Lynch and Co. in North American financing operations as part of its business rehabilitation efforts.


Rwanda Retains Right to Attack Rebels in Congo (Reuters)

Reuters - Rwanda can and will strike Rwandan\rebels in Congo if little continues to be done to disarm them,\but Kigali is not spoiling for a fight, President Paul Kagame\said on Saturday after meeting his Congolese counterpart.


Study finds cicada carcasses boost soil nutrients, plant growth

Their decaying carcasses gave a super-size boost in nutrients to forest soil and stimulated seed and nitrogen production in a plant important to the forest ecosystem, researchers reported in Friday #39;s issue of the journal Science.


Micro-generators rev up the power

A new micro-generator developed at the Georgia Institute of Technology holds promise for micro-generator technology #39;s future in electronics devices.


Mandaric: I #39;m not here to be popular

Chairman Milan Mandaric has sought to reconcile the club with fans before Portsmouth #39;s predicament descends into pantomime farce by insisting:  #39;I #39;m behind you.


Langer stars as Kiwis fade

Adelaide - New Zealand lost both their opening batsmen in the final session as Australia, led by Justin Langer #39;s third career double century, held a 519-run lead after the second day of the second cricket Test on Saturday.


Proteas skipper injures foot

SOUTH AFRICAN captain Graeme Smith sustained a freak injury off the field but was likely to play in the second Test against India, a team official said today.


Pak insists Hurriyat real representative of Kashmiris

Insisting that Hurriyat Conference is the real representative of Kashmiris, Pakistan has claimed that India is not ready to accept ground realities in Kashmir.


Nine arrested after Australian island riot

protesting against the death of a man in custody burnt down a police station, police residence and a courthouse. northeast coast, said Queensland state police minister Judy Spence.


Pope returns relics to eastern Orthodox

Pope John Paul returned relics of two early Christian saints to the Patriarch of Constantinople Saturday in another bid to warm ties with eastern Orthodoxy.


Wal-Mart Sees Nov. US Sales Up 0.7 Pct

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , the world #39;s largest retailer, said on Saturday it expects a 0.7 percent increase in November sales at its US stores open at least


Rovers win precious points

Blackburn Rovers got their first away win of the season beating Fulham 2-0 at Craven Cottage on Saturday. Paul Gallagher #39;s 10th-minute strike and a Paul Dickov penalty with 13 minutes remaining sealed the


Researchers Develop 3-D Phone Technology

TOKYO Nov 24, 2004 - It #39;s an idea that was popularized by Princess Leia #39;s plea for help in Star Wars: sending a 3-D hologram.


UPDATE 1-Myskina beats Golovin for Russia to level at 1-1

Anastasia Myskina kept Russia #39;s Fed Cup hopes alive by beating Moscow-born Tatiana Golovin 6-4 7-6 in the second singles of the competition final against holders France on Saturday, levelling the score at 1-1.


Morales tries to prove that he #39;s worth the weight

The fine, pure hate that Erik Morales has for Marco Antonio Barrera might be motivation enough for the Tijuana fighter here tonight, but there also is a more tangible factor in his favor.


Rams cut veteran Landeta

The St. Louis Rams yesterday released punter Sean Landeta and signed Kevin Stemke to replace him. Landeta, 42, was one of only two former USFL players still in action in the NFL.


#39;Turn other cheek #39; doesn #39;t work either

Minor league hockey player Dan Sullivan was suspended for 18 fewer games for mooning fans than Indiana Pacer Stephen Jackson was (30) for trying to punch their lights out.


Sri Lankan rebel leader threatens to launch freedom struggle

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader said Saturday the rebels would be compelled tolaunch the freedom struggle for the Tamil nation if peace talks were further delayed, the pro-rebel website TamilNet said.


Barghouti Backs Abbas in Palestinian Race (AP)

AP - Jailed Palestinian uprising leader Marwan Barghouti dropped out of the race to replace Yasser Arafat on Friday, agreeing to support the candidacy of interim leader Mahmoud Abbas in a move intended to head off a split in the ruling Fatah movement.


Pakistan Downplays CIA Report on Leaks (AP)

AP - Pakistan on Saturday downplayed suggestions that a new CIA report indicates that a renegade scientist provided more help to Iran's nuclear weapons program than previously disclosed.


Wal-Mart Sees November Sales Up 0.7 Pct


New multiple sclerosis drug near patients

Biogen Idec Inc. #39;s Tysabri drug for multiple sclerosis may reach patients as soon as next week, and doctors said they plan to prescribe it first to patients who are no longer being helped by older medicines.


Canadian Dollar Gains for Fifth Week in Six on Rate Prospects

Canada #39;s dollar gained for the fifth week in six, reaching the highest since January 1992, on speculation the central bank will lift its interest-rate target next month.


Sorenstam Plays Tiger Woods in Skins Game (AP)

AP - Annika Sorenstam is mixing it up with the men again, and this time the competition includes Tiger Woods. Sorenstam and Woods will play against each other for the first time when they tee off Saturday in the Skins Game at the Trilogy Golf Club in the middle of the desert.


St. John's Bans Hoops Team From Postseason (AP)

AP - St. John's imposed two years of penalties on its men's basketball team Friday after an investigation revealed a former player was given cash by an athletic department employee.


Forecast maps on trackfor new look

Instead of the skinny black line, showing a hurricane #39;s forecast track, forecasters have drafted a couple of alternative graphics to depict where the storms might go -- and they want your opinion.


Chargers Confident Going Into Jets Rematch (AP)

AP - A lot has changed for the San Diego Chargers since the mid-September afternoon when Drew Brees threw two interceptions, lost a fumble and sustained a concussion in a home loss to the New York Jets.


Football: Chelsea stay top

John Terry's brace helps Chelsea move five points clear at the top of the table.


Locust alert in Canary Islands

A state of alert is ordered as swarms of locusts from Africa arrive in Spain's Canary Islands.


New Kazaa version to feature online calling

Moving beyond media downloads, leading peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing company Kazaa, is now offering free, Internet-based telephone service via the Skype voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) application.


Blogger Uncovers Microsoft PR Gaffe

The Public Relations India blog claims that Microsoft or its PR agency released this photo of the new MSN Search ... .. to AP using the IE competitor browser, Mozilla Firefox.


Live hunting online draws opposition

The San Antonio resident set up the Web site, did a little research and recently launched his Internet service that allows registered users to shoot actual .22 rifles at paper targets via their computer.


P2P Company Gets Approval from Record Labels

quot;A small peer-to-peer start-up has won rights from three of the four major record labels to distribute their music online. The deals with Peer Impact, a new division of online marketing company Wurld Media


Myskina salvages Fed Cup tie for Russia vs. France

MOSCOW -- French Open champion Anastasia Myskina pulled Russia into a 1-1 tie with defending champion France at the Fed Cup final Saturday after US Open winner Svetlana Kuznetsova lost the first singles match.


Windies tour in hands of pollies

POLITICAL heavyweights have intervened in a bid to end the West Indies contracts dispute which threatens the one-day series in Australia.


CAPTAIN FANTASTIC GIVES POMPEY HEART

Arjan De Zeeuw played a captains role to the full as the Portsmouth players superbly shrugged off a week of internal turmoil. The Dutch defender grabbed the winner in a 1-0 triumph against Bolton at the


Pirates send Kendall to Athletics

PITTSBURGH The Pittsburgh Pirates have traded catcher Jason Kendall to the Oakland Athletics for left-handers Mark Redman and Arthur Rhodes.


UPDATE 2-Rugby-Australia edge out England in Twickenham thriller

Australia showed all their famed resilience to withstand a fierce fightback by England and beat the world champions 21-19 in a thunderous World Cup final repeat on Saturday.


Justin Langer smashes New Zealand

Nothing much changed for New Zealand on day 2 of the second test match between Australia and New Zealand. Australia are dominating like they did on the first day and with Justin Langer completing his double


Springboks bounce back

South Africa gained revenge for their surprise defeat at Murrayfield two years ago with a convincing 45-10 victory over Scotland in Edinburgh.


Democracy campaigner enters race

A PALESTINIAN democracy activist who has campaigned for non-violent resistance to Israeli occupation said today he would run for president to succeed Yasser Arafat.


Chinese Police Detain Man In Bloody Knife Attack At School

Americas Amber Alert News Center(BEIJING China) AP--BEIJING -- Chinese police have detained a man accused of hacking to death as many as nine boys as they slept in a high school dormitory in central China.


Francophone summit ends with resolution on Ivory Coast

OUAGADOUGOU (AFP) - Leaders from 36 French-speaking countries wrapped up a summit in Burkina Faso, with a call to the protagonists in the Ivory Coast conflict to implement a French-brokered pact to restore peace.


Tigers to resume  #39; #39;freedom struggle #39; #39; if talks not resumed

Colombo, Nov 27 (UNI) The LTTE today threatened to resume the  #39; #39;freedom struggle #39; #39; if the Sri Lankan Government did not resume the peace talks on the basis of its proposal for an interim self-rule.


Sudan Lifts State of Emergency in North Darfur

Sudan said it had lifted all restrictions on aid workers and revoked a state of emergency in the troubled North Darfur state on Saturday, after rebels pulled out from a town they occupied last week.


Hut by Hut, AIDS Steals Life in a Southern Africa Town

What happens to a society when its fulcrum - its mothers and fathers, teachers, nurses, farm workers - die in their prime?


Colombian Rebels Planned to Kill President Bush

BOGOTA, Colombia (Reuters) - President Bush was targetedfor assassination by Colombia's biggest Marxist rebel groupthis week when he visited the Caribbean port city of Cartagena,a top Colombian official said on Saturday.


Icahn enters Hollywood picture

Hollywood Entertainment Corp. discovered Friday that it might have another suitor in the suddenly crowded field bidding to take over the Wilsonville-based video rental chain.


Mitsubishi Motors to Sell \$2 Bln of Loans to Merrill (Update4)

Mitsubishi Motors Corp. said it will sell \$2 billion of US auto loans to Merrill Lynch  amp; Co. to help the automaker reduce debt.


Notre Dame

LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- Top-ranked Southern California tries to win a school-record 21st straight home game and post a 20th consecutive victory overall when it hosts rival Notre Dame on Saturday.


India in high spirits before second Test:

Sports India, Cricket: Kolkata, Nov 27 : With the revocation of captain Sourav Ganguly #39;s two-match suspension, a resurgent Indian team is looking forward to the second and final Test against South Africa beginning at the Eden Gardens here Sunday.


3 GIs killed in Iraq attack

A US soldier was killed yesterday in a roadside bomb attack on a military vehicle north of Baghdad while two marines were killed Thursday in the western Iraqi city of Fallujah, the US military said.


Habana scores two tries as Springboks outplay Scots 45-10 in rugby

Bryan Habana scored two intercept tries in his first start and Jaco van der Westhuyzen collected a try and three drop goals Saturday as Tri Nations champion South Africa outplayed Scotland 45-10 at Murrayfield.


OPEC Unlikely to Change Quotas -Nigeria (Reuters)

Reuters - OPEC oil producers are unlikely to\change output quotas at their December 10 ministerial meeting\and have no need yet to rein in a supply surge that has begun\to ease record prices, Nigeria's top oil official said on\Saturday.


Argentine Protesters on Streets Over Fatal Fire

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (Reuters) - Thousands of Argentines  mourning almost 200 young victims of a rock club fire took to  the streets of Buenos Aires on Monday to protest the  government's safety standards, as the city mayor resisted  pressure to resign.


FCC is watching SBC #39;s VoIP charge

WASHINGTON--The Federal Communications Commission is keeping and eye on SBC Communications #39; new connection charge for calls made over the Internet.


Peru Orders Curfew in Siege Town

LIMA, Peru (Reuters) - The Peruvian government put a  southern Andean town under curfew on Monday after launching a  military offensive to retake a police station held for three  days by ex-soldiers demanding the president's resignation.


Calls for Iraq Poll Delay Fuel Tension (Reuters)

Reuters - Iraq's main Shi'ite parties insisted on\Saturday that elections should go ahead on Jan. 30 as planned,\rejecting mounting calls from Sunni and secular politicians to\postpone the polls because of guerrilla violence.


Once-Proud Niners, Dolphins Flounder (AP)

AP - Bill Walsh and Don Shula might want to avert their eyes from this one. Twenty seasons after the San Francisco 49ers and the Miami Dolphins faced each other in two of their 10 combined trips to the Super Bowl, they've become the NFL's two most miserable franchises.


Soccer Racism Taints Spain's Reputation (AP)

AP - Spaniards used to say they lived in one of Europe's most racially tolerant countries. Soccer has shattered that myth. In Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium  #151; the Yankee Stadium of soccer  #151; Spanish fans bellowed out monkey noises last week each time a black English player touched the ball in a match between England and Spain.


Arctic States Agree Small Steps to Slow Thaw

Eight Arctic countries agreed on small steps to brake a rapid thaw of the region on Wednesday with indigenous peoples accusing Washington of


John Hall Returns As Redskins Kicker (AP)

AP - Washington Redskins kicker John Hall will be back in uniform Sunday after missing five games with a groin injury.


Silent march in France on 100th day of captivity of journalists held in Iraq (AFP)

AFP - Hundreds of people marked the 100 days in captivity of two French reporters in Iraq with a silent march through a western French town, while the family of one of the kidnapped men appealed for their release before Christmas.


White salutes Van der Westhuyzen

South Africa coach Jake White praised fly-half Jaco van der Westhuyzen after his try-scoring contribution in the 45-10 win over Scotland at Murrayfield.


Insurgents Target Iraqi Security Forces (AP)

AP - The warning left in the garage of Omar Hameed, Iraqi National Guardsman, showed two bloody swords and a message: "If you don't quit your job in three days, you will be killed."


Tamil Tigers warn of resumed violence

Sri Lanka #39;s Tamil Tiger insurgency is threatening to resume armed struggles unless the government accepts the rebels #39; blueprint for self-rule.


Chelsea Routs Charlton in Premier League (AP)

AP - Chelsea routed Charlton 4-0 on Saturday behind two goals by defender John Terry to open a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League.


Inaugural Speeches Often Don't Inspire (AP)

AP - Ask not why so few inaugural speeches resonate long after they are given.


Newsview: Political Rhetoric Has Price (AP)

AP - President Bush says politicians should say what they mean. But doing so can sometimes be an invitation to disaster, as Arlen Specter, John Kerry, John Snow and Bush himself can attest.


Ailing US chief justice to miss work again: report (AFP)

AFP - US Chief Justice William Rehnquist, who has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, will again miss work when the Supreme Court reconvenes Monday, according to a report.


Newfoundland's flag flap with Ottawa raises ire among some Labradorians (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, Nfld. (CP) - Hurt and insulted by their premier's decision to pull down Canadian flags across the province, some patriotic Labradorians plan to raise the Maple Leaf in protest Tuesday.


Vatican returns relics of saints to Istanbul

VATICAN CITY -- Pope John Paul is returning centuries-old relics of two Orthodox Christian saints in an effort to bridge the divide between the two churches.


Simmering Trade Disputes Will Greet Bush in Canada

Canadians remember two things about Ronald Reagan #39;s trip to Quebec City in 1985: his rendition of  quot;When Irish Eyes Are Smiling quot; with Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, and the announcement


Barghouthi Drops Palestinian Election Bid

. Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouthi, who is illegally jailed in Israeli occupation prison, will not run in the Palestinian presidential election, an official


Building a better turkey through biotech

Most of the turkeys gracing the nation #39;s dinner tables Thursday have been selectively bred for their white meat for so many generations that simply walking


Chelsea surge into five point lead

LONDON, England -- England defender John Terry scored twice as Chelsea crushed Charlton Athletic 4-0 to go five points clear at the top of the English Premier League.


Italy beats US Eagles

Italy fought off a strong second-half comeback by the United States and won its rugby union Test 43-25 on Saturday. Flyhalf Luciano Orquera scored 20 points including a try, and winger


Iran dug tunnel for military nuclear work-magazine

BERLIN - Iran is working on a secret nuclear programme for military purposes despite promising the European Union it would halt all activities related to uranium enrichment, the news magazine Der Spiegel said on Saturday.


Palestinians disband feared security force

Palestinian officials have disbanded a Gaza security force feared by civilians and under fire by human rights groups in one of the first concrete steps toward security reform in months, says a security official.


Romanians Have Stark Choice in Election (AP)

AP - When Romanians pick a president Sunday, their main choice is between the forces of the past  #151; flawed but comfortingly familiar  #151; and an inexperienced challenger promising a dynamic, Western-leaning future.


Pro-government Sudanese militia kill 16 in Darfur: SLM (AFP)

AFP - Sudan's pro-government Janjaweed militia killed 16 people in a western village in the troubled Darfur region, a spokesman of the rebel Sudan Liberation Movement told AFP by telephone.


Young Afghan heart patient, once deathly ill, leaves Canada in good health (AFP)

AFP - A 10-year-old Afghan boy saved from death after being airlifted to Canada for emergency heart surgery has flown home with a new lease on life.


Harper maintains message consistent in Quebec and rest of Canada (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - QUEBEC (CP) - Stephen Harper denied accusations of political opportunism in Quebec on Saturday, saying he wants voters in the province to chose the Conservatives for principles that apply across the country.


Ambani v Ambani

SO what if ownership issues crop up in the Rs 90,000-plus crore Reliance group even if Mukesh, the elder of the two Ambani brothers, seeks to say there is none?


Pedro Martinez Meets With Mets' GM (AP)

AP - Free agent Pedro Martinez met with the general manager of the New York Mets in his home country, a month after helping the Boston Red Sox win their first World Series title since 1918, a baseball source told The Associated Press.


Scholes: We Must Make Up For Lost Time

Paul Scholes grabbed his third goal in three games with a brace against West Brom on Saturday, and then urged United to make up for their sluggish start to the campaign.


City #39;s run of form continues

Manchester City recorded back-to-back Premiership wins for the first time since April 2003 with a well-deserved win over Aston Villa at Eastlands.


Barrerra vs Morales  quot;Mexican World War 3 quot;

Tonight on HBO PPV, only one of the two brave warriors will emerge with the bragging rights as to which one is the superior Mexican fighter, The Baby Faced Assassin Marco Antonio Barrera or Erik El Terrible Morales?


Firefighters die in roof collapse

SEVEN Swiss firefighters were presumed dead today after they were trapped under the collapsed roof of a burning underground car park.


Law change call for terror cases

David Blunkett is being urged to bring forward plans to allow phone-tapping evidence in UK courts so trials of foreign terror suspects can go ahead.


No. 5 Illinois Beats No. 24 Gonzaga 89-72 (AP)

AP - Deron Williams scored 20 points to lead No. 5 Illinois to a 89-72 win over No. 24 Gonzaga on Saturday in the John Wooden Tradition at Conseco Fieldhouse.


Saudi Police Shoot Dead Suspect Militant in Jeddah (Reuters)

Reuters - Saudi security forces shot dead a\suspected militant on Saturday in a clash in the Red Sea port\city of Jeddah, police and witnesses said.


We #39;ll quit tour if we have to meet Mugabe, warns England skipper

HARARE (AFP) - England skipper Michael Vaughan turned up the pressure ahead of the opening match against Zimbabwe by warning that his team will quit the tour if they are forced to meet Robert Mugabe.


Kiwis in trouble after Langers double

Adelaide, November 27: Justin Langer made 215 of Australias 575 for eight declared before New Zealand stumbled to 56 for two at the close of the second days play in the second Test on Saturday.


Martinez meets with Mets GM in Dominican Republic

Free agent Pedro Martinez met with the general manager of the New York Mets in his home country, a month after helping the Boston Red Sox win their first World Series title since 1918, a baseball source told The Associated Press.


Lyon seek return to winning ways

French champions Olympique Lyon hope to regain their momentum when they meet ambitious AJ Auxerre on Saturday. The Ligue 1 leaders have won only one of their last four games, losing for the first time this