Jon Stewart Attacks the Media through Crossfire

Instead of plugging his new book, Jon Stewart tonight on CNN's crossfire used his time to slam the media's coverage of the election.  Although Stewart leans left, he attacked political shows and begged them: "Stop, stop, stop, stop hurting America."  Is it time to really stop all the political games that both sides play?  Torrent of the event is available.


Fed Debates Policy for Post-Greenspan Era (Reuters)

Reuters - Battle lines are drawn at the\Federal Reserve between those who favor formal inflation goals\and those who don't, and the debate is heating up ahead of the\coming retirement of Chairman Alan Greenspan.


Deluge of Big Earnings to Dominate (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. stock investors face a\mind-numbing pile of information this week as corporate\earnings and economic data pour in, Alan Greenspan speaks and\the presidential election heads toward the homestretch.


U.N.'s Annan: Iraq War Done Little to Halt Terrorism (Reuters)

Reuters - The Iraq war has done little to increase\security across the world or halt the activities of\international terrorists, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi\Annan said Sunday.


African Leaders in Libya to Discuss Darfur (Reuters)

Reuters - The Sudanese government and\rebel leaders need to be pushed to find a solution to the\bloody conflict in Darfur, African foreign ministers said\Sunday ahead of a summit on the crisis.


European Ministers Meet for Terror Talks (AP)

AP - Interior ministers from Italy, France, Germany, Britain and Spain searched for Europe-wide solutions in the fights against terror and illegal immigration during informal talks Sunday at a Florentine villa.


Halloween Means Sales as Adults Join In (Reuters)

Reuters - Halloween is expected to scare up\record sales this year as more adults -- and pets -- join in\what was once mainly a children's dress-up event, filling a\void before the key Christmas shopping season.


Vancouver votes in record numbers, rejects ward-based electoral system (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - VANCOUVER (CP) - Vancouver residents took to the polls in record numbers Saturday and voted not to adopt a ward system used by every other major Canadian city to elect its municipal politicians.


Deluge of Big Earnings to Dominate

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. stock investors face a  mind-numbing pile of information this week as corporate  earnings and economic data pour in, Alan Greenspan speaks and  the presidential election heads toward the homestretch.


Settlers Say Gaza Meeting with Sharon a 'Disgrace'

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Jewish settler leaders failed in a  rare meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon on Sunday  to persuade him to back their proposal to put his planned Gaza  withdrawal to a national referendum.


Comet Smashed Into Southern Germany In 200 BC

PARIS (AFP) -- A comet or asteroid smashed into modern-day Germany some 2,200 years ago, unleashing energy equivalent to thousands of atomic bombs, scientists revealed.     The 1.1-kilometre (0.7-mile) diameter rock wacked into southeastern Bavaria, leaving an "exceptional field" of meteorites and impact craters that stretch from the town of Altoetting to an area around Lake Chiemsee, the scientists said Friday in an article in the latest issue of US magazine Astronomy...


Unlikely Visionary Behind Private Race to Space

SpaceShipOne visionary Peter Diamandis wasn't thinking about history as he stood in the Mojave desert and watched a small, shuttlecock-shaped craft glide back to Earth having nudged the edge of space. He just thought it looked beautiful.


New Hope in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

Mammograms have become a rite of passage for 40-year-old American women, and a compulsory exercise for those over 40. But as rote as those annual screenings might seem, there's nothing routine about a diagnosis of breast cancer.


Bush Says He's Best Protection From Draft

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - President Bush turned is turning the tables on Sen...


U.S. Continues Major Attack on Fallujah

BAGHDAD, Iraq - U.S. forces battled insurgents around the rebel stronghold of Fallujah on Sunday, and militants ambushed and killed nine Iraqi policemen returning from training in Jordan...


A new crew arrives at the space station

A Soyuz spacecraft with a replacement crew for the international space station docked safely with the orbiting complex early Saturday.


Myskina defends title in Moscow

Moscow, Russia (Sports Network) - Anastasia Myskina of Russia successfully defended her title in Moscow with a straight-set win over countrywoman Elena Dementieva at the final of the \$1.


Loeb takes the slow road to first world title

A cautious approach helped Frenchman Sebastien Loeb to win his first world rallying title on Sunday. Before the Rally of France, Citroen team boss Guy Frequelin


Karzai leads in Afghanistan vote count

KABUL - Interim leader Hamid Karzai holds about 70 per cent of the votes counted so far after Afghanistan #39;s landmark presidential election.


Chemical Blast Wounds 2 at Kenya Airport

An explosion went off Sunday at an airport in Kenya #39;s capital, wounding at least two people Sunday and prompting authorities to seal off the facility to air traffic, witnesses said.


Saudi Arabia bans tinted car windows

Saudi Arabia banned tinted car windows on Sunday in a move aimed at preventing militants escaping detection on the kingdom #39;s roads.


Many Churches Installing Cell Phone Jammers

The jarring polychromatic din of ringing cell phones is increasingly being thwarted - from religious sanctuaries to India's parliament to Tokyo theaters and commuter trains - by devices originally developed to help security forces avert eavesdropping and thwart phone-triggered bombings.


New England Patriots

FOXBORO, Massachusetts (Ticker) -- A possible preview of Super Bowl XXXIX will be staged Sunday when the New England Patriots host the Seattle Seahawks in the first meeting between the teams in nearly 11 years.


San Diego Chargers

ATLANTA (Ticker) -- Michael Vick gets to play the team that passed on the chance to draft him Sunday when the Atlanta Falcons host the San Diego Chargers in an interconference matchup.


Kabila makes symbolic visit to eastern DRC

The Democratic Republic of Congo #39;s President Joseph Kabila visited the former rebel-held east on Saturday for the first time since taking power, a trip intended to show the country was reuniting after years of war.


Jordan Indicts Zarqawi in Foiled Chemical Plot

AMMAN, Jordan (Reuters) - A group of militants was summoned  Sunday and formally charged for their alleged role in a  thwarted chemical attack using suicide bombers, judicial  sources said ahead of a trial which should begin in November.


IPO plans from China #39;s sole unlisted telecom

WASHINGTON - China Netcom, the only unlisted company among China #39;s four big telecoms operators, filed on Friday with the US Securities and Exchange Commission to raise as much as US\$1.


Microsoft #39;s Halo 2 video game leaked on internet

Halo 2, the sequel to Microsoft #39;s best-selling game for its Xbox video console, has leaked onto the internet nearly four weeks before its planned sale.


Paris report: Open-source move could be costly

It won #39;t be  quot;all or nothing quot; and it won #39;t be  quot;everything, right away. quot; That #39;s the gist of the message coming out of Paris following the presentation of a report on a possible switch from Windows to open source.


Golf: Els wins record sixth World Match Play title

WENTWORTH, England : Ernie Els proved himself the master of the World Match Play championship on Sunday when he won a record breaking sixth title - beating England #39;s Lee Westwood 2 and 1 in the 36-hole final.


Iran ready to discuss nuclear issue  quot;without conditions quot;: official

Iran on Sunday said it was ready tohold negotiations on its nuclear program  quot;without any conditions quot;,but Tehran could not be forced to do anything, the official IRNAnews agency reported.


Seven Iraqis Die in Falluja Battles, Baghdad Attack

US jets bombed Falluja Sunday and troops fought rebels accused of shielding foreign fighters led by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, America #39;s top foe in Iraq.


Relentless Els Seals Record Sixth Match Play Title

VIRGINIA WATER, England (Reuters) - Ernie Els beat Lee  Westwood 2 1 in a gripping final at Wentworth Sunday to win a  record sixth World Match Play Championship and claim the  biggest first prize in golf.


Chinese finance minister says nine per cent economic growth acceptable (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - BEIJING (AP) - China's finance minister says economic growth of nine per cent this year would be acceptable, state television reported this week in the first acknowledgment by a senior official that growth might exceed the government's target of seven per cent.


Voters Dislike Nasty Campaigns (AP)

AP - Near the end of a long presidential campaign, the question in this hard-fought state is becoming more familiar: Which candidate do you like? And the reply of 62-year-old independent voter Joy Handyside is perhaps all-too-common.


Paris govt. offices slowly switching to open-source software

Local government offices in the French capital will be moving to open source software, but they #39;ll be doing it slowly. An independent study showed that a switch to open source would cause  quot;significant


Boston Facing Monster Challenge

Boston Red Sox manager Terry Francona walked into his clubhouse Thursday morning and it was the same place he #39;s enjoyed all season.


SportsNetwork Game Preview

(Sports Network) - Carlos Beltran may be the newest Killer B in Houston #39;s lineup, but right now he is also the most feared hitter on the Astros.


Rusedski Only Un-seed Into ATP Moscow Semifinals

Brit Greg Rusedski continued to pick up momentum in his comeback from being falsely accused of drug doping earlier this year by the ATP, Friday upsetting No.


Stuttgart Top In Day Of Shocks

Matthias Sammer #39;s VfB Stuttgart moved to the top of the Bundesliga table on Saturday with a 2-0 win over Sammer #39;s former employers Borussia Dortmund, on a day that saw shock defeats for both Werder Bremen and Bayern Munich.


Britain may move troops north

LONDONBritish troops could be moved to Baghdad to provide cover for American troops as they carry out offensive operations against insurgents in Falluja and elsewhere in the country, media reports said yesterday.


Two killed in mortar attack in Baghdad

Two people were killed and a third injured Sunday when a rocket-propelled grenade exploded at a weapons depot east of Baghdad. Eyewitnesses said the grenade fell into a sports club where al-Mehdi militiamen


Delta Reports That Its Cash Is Dwindling Rapidly

Delta Air Lines, which is struggling to avoid a bankruptcy filing, said yesterday that it expected to lose as much as \$675 million for the third quarter and that it was using cash at a steep rate.


Royal Group Technologies shares remain halted as rumours swirl

TORONTO (CP) - Trading in shares of Royal Group Technologies Ltd. remained halted by regulatory order Thursday amid rumours about police and securities commission investigations of the building products maker.


Els claims record sixth Match Play

Ernie Els claimed a record sixth World Match Play title by beating Lee Westwood two and one in a gripping final at Wentworth. The South African world number two celebrated


Favourite Garcia Takes Mallorca Honours

Sergio Garcia justified his position as pre-tournament favourite, and perhaps even his decision to turn down the chance of 1million, with victory in the Mallorca Classic today.


Cloak and dagger Dortmund

Those of you who try to follow the Bundesliga by checking the German media will come off a confusing week, as there was very little talk of football.


Sudan Questions WHOs Darfur Death Toll

KHARTOUM, 17 October 2004 - Sudan yesterday questioned UN estimates that up to 70,000 people had died from hunger and disease in its remote Darfur region since a rebellion began 20 months ago.


First Permanent Russian Military Base Opened

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Tajik President Imomali Rakhmonov dedicated the first permanent Russian military base in Tajikistan today.


Greenspan on Oil

In a speech on Friday, Alan Greenspan, chairman of the Federal Reserve, gave qualified reassurance on the adequacy of future global oil supplies to meet rising demandat least through a mid-century transition to a new primary energy source.


Google Desktop Search 1.0 Beta

If there is one IT company that has changed the way we surf the Internet, especially while searching for data online, then it has to be Google.


Bear Stearns bond offering practices investigated

The Securities and Exchange Commission is investigating Bear Stearns Cos #39; (BSC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) municipal bond offering practices, according to a filing from the US investment bank.


GM, Struggling in Europe, Sets Big Job Cuts

Europe has been a cold place for American carmakers these last few years. On Thursday, the General Motors Corporation made clear just how cold, announcing it


New Threat to Yukos Licenses Issued

Natural Resources Minister Yury Trutnev said Saturday that Yukos #39; main production unit, Yuganskneftegaz, could lose its licenses over what he termed  quot;rather serious quot; technical violations.


Sun Micro Posts Narrower Quarterly Loss

Network computer maker Sun Microsystems Inc. on Thursday posted a narrower quarterly loss as revenue rose for the second consecutive quarter on higher sales of servers after three years of declines.


Barrett: Intel Makes U-Turn, Cancels Four-Gigahertz Chip

In a bumpy year of missteps and about-faces, Intel (nasdaq: INTC - news - people ) announced another U-turn: On Thursday the chipmaker said it halted plans to release a 4-gigahertz microprocessor.


Microsoft Claims Partnership Creates 1,000 .Net Platforms

Executives with Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft have disclosed that a 2-year-old partnership created to promote the use of .Net for Web services has resulted in the installation of 1,000 .


Four sentenced for web porn in Beijing

Four men were sentenced to termed imprisonment Thursday in Beijing for creating and profiting from pornographic websites, reported China Daily on Thursday.


IBM and Cisco in enterprise security tie-up

IBM and Cisco Systems have unveiled product updates that will tie technology from the two companies more closely together in an effort to secure customer networks from worms and viruses.


(Sports Network) - This year #39;s American League Championship Series <b>...</b>

Red Sox. Boston is on the verge of being swept in four games by the New York. on Aaron Boone #39;s home run in bottom of the 11th inning of Game 7. It #39;s been a. pennant in the last seven years.


Garcia pulls away, wins Mallorca Classic

MALLORCA, Spain (Ticker) - Sergio Garcia lived up to his billing as pre-tournament favorite perfectly when he cruised to victory in the Mallorca Classic at Pula Golf Club Sunday.


Ferguson begins war of words

LONDON, Oct. 17. - Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson today reopened his war of words with Arsenals Mr Arsene Wenger, a week before the two clubs Premier League confrontation at Old Trafford.


Packers break out of slump, pound Lions

Detroit, MI (Sports Network) - Brett Favre threw for 257 yards and a pair of touchdowns as Green Bay stopped a four-game losing streak with a 38-10 pounding of Detroit in an NFC North showdown at Ford Field.


Sun Micro Posts Narrower Quarterly Loss

Network computer maker Sun Microsystems Inc. (SUNW.O: Quote, Profile, Research) on Thursday posted a narrower quarterly loss as revenue rose year over year for the


US troops, insurgents fight around Iraqi rebel city of Fallujah

FALLUJAH, Iraq : US troops and insurgents battled on the edge of rebel-held Fallujah and nine policemen were killed in an ambush, as UN chief Kofi Annan said he did not think the invasion of Iraq had made the world a safer place.


UK ponders Iraq troop switch

THE US had asked Britain to redeploy troops stationed in the UK-controlled zone in southern Iraq, the Ministry of Defence confirmed today.


Two hurt in Kenya airport blast

Two customs workers have been lightly injured in a blast at one of the airports in the Kenyan capital Nairobi. A fire triggered by the explosion in a warehouse is said to have damaged the roof of an adjacent departure lounge.


Fire rips through Venezuela tower, no casualties

A huge fire on Sunday destroyed 22 floors of Venezuela #39;s highest tower block in a Caracas complex housing ministries and state agencies, but there were no casualties, authorities said.


Tehran sticks by  #39;right #39; to master nuclear fuel cycle

Iran repeated Sunday it had a  quot;right quot; to master the sensitive nuclear fuel cycle, ahead of an expected proposal from Europe calling for Tehran to abandon such work in exchange for diplomatic and trade incentives.


Literary icon rejects Nigerian award

government in Nigeria in protest at the  quot;dangerous quot; state of the country, newspapers have reported. Problem With Nigeria quot;, rejected the award in a two-page letter addressed to President Olusegun Obasanjo.


Australia set India 229 to win second Test:

Sports India, Cricket: Chennai, Oct 17 : Damien Martyn cracked his eighth Test century on the fourth day of the second Test at MA Chidambaram Stadium here Sunday to help Australia set India a target of 229 to win the match.


Jets 22, 49ers 14

Chad Pennington led the New York Jets on a second-half comeback. Rookie Jonathan Vilma sealed it. The Jets overcame a 14-3 halftime deficit and Vilma intercepted Tim Rattay #39;s poorly thrown pass with 1:44 to


Karzai Rival Refuses to Concede Election

Afghan presidential candidate Yunus Qanooni adjusts his glasses during an interview in Kabul on Sunday, Oct.17. 2004. Hamid Karzai #39;s closest rival in Afghanistan #39;s landmark election refused to concede defeat


Spitzer Strikes

Eliot Spitzer received an anonymous letter last March that made for intriguing reading. The message suggested that the New York attorney general poke around Marsh  amp; McLennan, the US #39;s largest insurance broker


Oswalt hopes to pull Astros even

CBC SPORTS ONLINE - Roger Clemens did his part, now Roy Oswalt - the Houston Astros #39; other ace pitcher -opes to follow his veteran teammate #39;s lead.


Myskina Leads a Homegrown Double

The narrative of homegrown athletes triumphing over foreign opponents resonates with Russian sports fans, reaffirming their conviction that their country #39;s athletes are no worse, and in many cases even better, than athletes abroad.


Yao Ming Returns to China to NBA Exhibition Game

National Basketball Association star Yao Ming, from China, received a warm welcome and responded with 13 points, but it was not enough as the Sacramento Kings edged the Houston Rockets 91-89 in a preseason game played in Beijing.


Montella inspires Roma to first away win

Captain Francesco Totti scored a first-half goal and striker Vincenzo Montella added another in the second period Saturday and AS Roma beat last-place Livorno 2-0 on the road to capture its second win in six Serie A matches.


Busch bounces back from everything to hang on to points lead

If Kurt Busch goes on to win his first NASCAR title, he can point to the 500 miles at Lowe #39;s Motor Speedway as the defining race of his season.


Blunderer Boris told to say sorry across the Mersey

When you walk through a storm hold your head up high, and you #39;ll never walk alone - unless your name is Boris Johnson and you #39;re heading north to apologise to Liverpool.


Africa leaders seek Darfur peace

A summit of African leaders in Libya seeks a solution to the crisis in the Sudanese region of Darfur.


Two hurt in Kenya airport blast

Two people are hurt in a blast at one of the airports in Nairobi, thought to be the result of an accident.


Tamil Tigers reject peace plans

Sri Lanka's Tamil Tiger rebels dismiss new government proposals to restart peace talks.


Thousands of Britons Protest War in Iraq

LONDON - Thousands of anti-war and anti-globalization activists marched through central London and filled Trafalgar Square on Sunday to protest the U.S.-led coalition's presence in Iraq.    The march marked the culmination of the third European Social Forum - three days of speeches, workshops and debates largely dominated by Iraq and the U.S...


Zarqawi Movement Vows al-Qaida Allegiance

BAGHDAD, Iraq - The most feared militant group in Iraq, the movement of terror mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, declared its allegiance to Osama bin Laden on Sunday, saying it had resolved a dispute with al-Qaida over strategy and vowing unity against "the enemies of Islam."   The question of al-Zarqawi's relationship to bin Laden and the al-Qaida leadership has been the subject of considerable speculation. Some experts believed al-Zarqawi - who has claimed to be leading a bloody campaign of bombings against U.S...


Kerry Warns of Privatized Social Security

WASHINGTON - Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry accused President Bush on Sunday of planning a surprise second-term effort to privatize Social Security and forecast a "disaster for America's middle class."   Republicans denied the charge as scare tactics with little more than two weeks remaining in a tight election...


Investors Weigh Pharmaceuticals, Techs

NEW YORK - As Wall Street sifts through more than 300 third-quarter earnings reports this week, technology and pharmaceutical stocks will be getting some of the closest scrutiny.    The focus on drug companies results from a recent spate of bad news about Merck   Co...


Tommy Lee Plays With College Marching Band

LINCOLN, Neb. - Drummer Tommy Lee has played plenty of stadium shows with his band Motley Crue...


U.S. Ground, Air Attacks Pound Fallujah

BAGHDAD, Iraq - U.S. troops pounded the insurgent stronghold Fallujah with airstrikes and tank fire Sunday, and the Iraqi government appealed to residents of the city to expel "foreign terrorists" and "murderers" to prevent an all-out attack...


Pentagon: Ex-Detainees Return to Terror

WASHINGTON - Despite gaining their freedom by signing pledges to renounce violence, at least seven former prisoners of the United States at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, have returned to terrorism, at times with deadly consequences.    At least two are believed to have died in fighting in Afghanistan, and a third was recaptured during a raid of a suspected training camp in Afghanistan, said Lt...


KABUL, Afghanistan - Hamid Karzai's rivals said Sunday it was too early to call Afghanistan's inaugural presidential election, despite the interim leader's dominant showing after three days of vote-counting.    The U.S.-backed incumbent's main challenger, Yunus Qanooni, insisted that a full count and a proper investigation by a panel of foreign experts on fraud allegations could yet put him in the running...


Violence Continues in Fallujah

U.S. troops pounded the insurgent stronghold Fallujah with airstrikes and tank fire Sunday, and the Iraqi government appealed to residents of the city to expel "foreign terrorists" and "murderers" to prevent an all-out attack.


Sony May Open Stores, Worrying Retailers (AP)

AP - Few people took notice when Sony Electronics Inc. opened a tiny storefront last year here at South Coast Plaza, a swanky mall south of Los Angeles.


Is the Mobile Phone the Next iPod Killer? (Reuters)

Reuters - English photographer Alastair Daly was\in the market recently for an affordable digital music player\capable of storing enough songs to pass the time on his\hour-long commute through the capital city's clogged streets.


Settlers Say Gaza Meeting with Sharon a 'Disgrace' (Reuters)

Reuters - Jewish settler leaders failed Sunday\to persuade Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to put his\planned Gaza withdrawal to a national referendum and called a\confrontational meeting with him a "disgrace."


Biogen Mulling Bid for Ireland's Elan (Reuters)

Reuters - U.S. drug company Biogen Idec\is considering an all-share bid of more than 8.5 billion euros\( #36;10.6 billion) for Irish peer Elan, a newspaper reported on\Sunday.


Loud Blast Shakes Baghdad, Casualties Feared (Reuters)

Reuters - A loud explosion rocked a cafe\frequented by Iraqi police near the Australian embassy in\Baghdad on Sunday, witnesses said.


Karzai maintains lead in early Afghan vote count (AFP)

AFP - President Hamid Karzai maintained his early lead in Afghanistan's election after just over eight percent of the ballots had been counted, the election commission said.


'No Child Left Behind' Top Education Issue (AP)

AP - President Bush asked for it. Sen. John Kerry voted for it. Both candidates now find their education agendas driven by the No Child Left Behind law.


Judge Recalls Football Glory in Campaign (AP)

AP - Judge Dick Ambrose wants his name to stand out on the November ballot like an orange Cleveland Browns helmet in a sea of Steelers black and gold.


S.C. Candidates Pledge to Fully Arm GIs (AP)

AP - The two candidates vying to fill South Carolina's open Senate seat both pledged Sunday to fully arm American troops in Iraq, as the Army investigates the refusal of a South Carolina-based platoon to go on a convoy mission because their trucks were unarmored.


Biogen Mulling Bid for Ireland's Elan

DUBLIN, Ireland (Reuters) - U.S. drug company Biogen Idec  is considering an all-share bid of more than 8.5 billion euros  (\$10.6 billion) for Irish peer Elan, a newspaper reported on  Sunday.


Settlers Say Gaza Meeting with Sharon a 'Disgrace'

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Jewish settler leaders failed Sunday  to persuade Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon to put his  planned Gaza withdrawal to a national referendum and called a  confrontational meeting with him a "disgrace."


US Global's Holmes Mines Commodity Stocks

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Frank Holmes would have loved to  become a boxer, but he hung up his gloves at an early age and  took a jab at money management instead.


Loud Blast Shakes Baghdad, Casualties Feared

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A loud explosion rocked a cafe  frequented by Iraqi police near the Australian embassy in  Baghdad on Sunday, witnesses said.


Zarqawi Pledges Allegiance to Bin Laden -- Web Site

DUBAI (Reuters) - An Iraq-based group led by Abu Musab  al-Zarqawi has pledged allegiance to Osama bin Laden's al Qaeda  group in a move it said aimed to increase the "ire of infidels  and the fear of the enemies of Islam."


Pope Says World Racked by Violence, Terrorism, War

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope John Paul said on Sunday  peace was still far-off with nations racked by violence,  terrorism and war, and abortion casting a "threatening shadow"  over parts of the world.


Packers end skid with 38-10 win

Dont put a fork in the Green Bay Packers yet. The team that began the season by whipping the Carolina Panthers on the road resurfaced Sunday at Ford Field and did the same to the Detroit Lions.


Chinese Space Capsule Hits House

The capsule of a Chinese satellite returning to Earth has smashed into a building in southwestern Sichuan province, causing damage but no injuries.


Loeb clinches rally title

FRANCE #39;s Sebastien Loeb became the new world rally champion today after finishing second behind Markko Martin in the Rally of Corsica.


#39;); //-- gt; Eye On Stocks

Sun Microsystems (nasdaq: SUNW - news - people ) said it broke even for the fiscal first quarter, topping analysts #39; estimates.


Kansas City Chiefs

JACKSONVILLE, Florida (Ticker) -- Showing poise well beyond his years, Byron Leftwich once again carried the Jacksonville Jaguars to a last-second victory.


Els tops Westwood to win his record sixth HSBC Match Play crown

WENTWORTH, England (PA) -- Ernie Els had a 35th birthday to remember forever on Sunday at the Wentworth Club. A 2  amp; 1 victory over an under-the-weather Lee Westwood completed with a 20-foot birdie putt on


Choose a topic from the pull-down menu:

Sergio Garcia lived up to his billing as pre-tournament favourite perfectly when he cruised to victory in the Mallorca Classic at Pula Golf Club, the 24 year old Spaniard notching his fifth European Tour International Schedule title in his 69th event.


Bear Stearns Bond Unit Is Under SEC Investigation

Bear Stearns has received subpoenas from federal investigators looking into its municipal bond business, the company reported in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission yesterday.


Satellite part returns with a bang

The retrievable chamber of China #39;s 20th recoverable satellite returned to Earth with a bang, crashing through the roof of a house, the Beijing News says.


Myskina to Defend Moscow Title in Roland Garros Final Rematch

Anastasia Myskina, entering the WTA Moscow semifinals with an 0-4 career record versus Lindsay Davenport, got over the hump Saturday with a 6-4, 7-6(1) victory against the new No.


Shearer stars at both ends

London - Andy O #39;Brien #39;s own goal cancelled out Craig Bellamy #39;s first half strike as Newcastle was held 1-1 by Charlton on Sunday and failed to capture fourth spot in the Premier League.


Juve stretch lead as Roma grab win

Juventus stretched their Serie A lead to five points as they battled to a 2-1 win over this season #39;s surprise packages Messina.


Martyn braves heat, takes Test to wire

This is turning out to be more like a game of snakes and ladders than anything else. Or perhaps an analogy with chess would be better.


Chinas economy: Fear and attraction

GUANGZHOU, China Few business executives watch the growth of the Chinese economy as closely as Michael Smith, the chief executive of Hongkong and Shanghai Banking.


Sudan seeks talks with new group

The Sudanese government says it will open talks with a new rebel group from the troubled region of Darfur.


Tiny L.E.D.'s Grow Into Mighty Theatrical Lights

Lamina Ceramics plans to introduce a light-emitting diode array with heat-reduction technology that allows it to be as bright as a theatrical light without a meltdown.


Belarusians OK Scrapping Term Limits (AP)

AP - Belarusian voters approved a referendum to scrap presidential term limits, the Central Elections Commission chief said Monday, citing partial results. Ending the limits would allow authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko to seek a new term in 2006.


Pats Beat Seahawks, Extend Win Streak (AP)

AP - The New England Patriots stopped a late Seattle comeback to beat the Seahawks 30-20 Sunday, running their streak to 20 wins, including playoffs. They also tied the league record with their 17th consecutive regular-season victory.


Redskins Beat Bears 13-10 to End Skid (AP)

AP - Clinton Portis had his best day since changing teams and Washington throttled Chicago's inept offense as the Redskins beat the Bears 13-10.


Sports: Falcons 21 Chargers 20

ATLANTA San Diego led 17-to-7 in the fourth quarter when Michael Vick, whose rights were traded by the Chargers to Atlanta in 2001, got rolling.


Bills Get First Win Over Winless Dolphins (AP)

AP - Takeo Spikes made good on his vow the Buffalo Bills would finally provide some good news for their fans this weekend.


Badgers Primed for Championship Run (AP)

AP - Wisconsin coach Barry Alvarez thinks his team's thrilling come-from-behind victory at Purdue could be the start of something special. The Badgers jumped four spots in the AP Top 25 to No. 6 after their 20-17 win over Purdue on Saturday and are primed for a run at the national championship.


Relentless Els Seals Record Sixth Match Play Title

VIRGINIA WATER, England (Reuters) - Ernie Els beat Lee  Westwood 2 1 in a gripping final at Wentworth Sunday to win a  record sixth World Match Play Championship and claim the  biggest first Prize in golf.


Wolfsburg Beaten by Hanover, Stuttgart Stays Top

BERLIN (Reuters) - VfL Wolfsburg failed to reclaim the  Bundesliga lead when they lost 3-0 away to Hanover 96 on  Sunday, leaving VfB Stuttgart two points clear at the top.


Valencia Defeat Leaves Barca Five Points Clear

MADRID (Reuters) - Valencia suffered a 2-1 defeat at home  to nine-man Sevilla Sunday to leave Barcelona five points clear  at the top of the Primera Liga table.


Jets Go 5-0 With Win Over 49ers

The Jets overcame a 14-3 halftime deficit and Jonathan Vilma intercepted Tim Rattay's pass with 1:44 to go, helping New York make franchise history.


U.S.C. Extends Lead Over Oklahoma in A.P. Poll

On the eve of the season's first B.C.S. standings, No. 1 Southern California increased its lead on No. 2 Oklahoma in The A.P. Top 25.


Els Wins Record Sixth Match Play Title

Ernie Els won the tournament for a record sixth time, beating Lee Westwood 2 and 1 Sunday to capture golf's biggest payday -- \$1.8 million.


Portis Pounds Bears, Redskins Snap Streak

Clinton Portis runs for 171 yards but the Redskins need several big plays from their defense to hold off the Bears, 13-10, in Chicago.


Eagles Rout Panthers

Overmatched and undermanned, the Panthers had no chance against the Eagles in a rematch of last season's NFC championship game, 30-8.


Els Wins Record Sixth Match Play Title

Ernie Els won the World Match Play title for a record sixth time on his 35th birthday, beating Lee Westwood 2 and 1 Sunday to capture golf's biggest payday - \$1.8 million.


Bills RB McGahee Gets First Career Start

Buffalo running back Willis McGahee made the first start of his career in the Bills' game against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.


Rockets Nip Kings As NBA Travels to China

The crowd chanted Yao Ming's name all game, soaking up the novelty of the NBA in another tribute to a player who is fast becoming a one-man basketball marketing force in China.


RCMP help find crashed jet #39;s data recorder

Thanks to a break in the weather, search teams have found the black box of a cargo jet that crashed at Halifax #39;s International Airport last week.


NFL Wrap: Manning Throws 3 TDs to Lead Colts Past Titans

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Peyton Manning threw three touchdown  passes to move closer to the all-time season record as the  Indianapolis Colts routed the visiting Tennessee Titans 51-24  in the NFL on Sunday.


Former Enron finance executive testifies in barge case

HOUSTON (AP _ A former Enron finance executive says he realized in May 2000 that the company #39;s purported 1999 barge sale to Merrill Lynch was improper.


Filtered estimates find upside, downside candidates

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS.MW) -- Third-quarter earnings have so far beaten reduced expectations, and more surprises are expected in the coming week -- the busiest period of the earnings season.


Possible new iPod causing buzz

Is Apple Computer Inc fine-tuning an enhanced iPod with roughly 50 percent more storage and a colour screen to display photos? The Internet sites that follow Apples coming product releases are buzzing with


Loeb takes the world championship

France #39;s Sebastien Loeb won his first world rallying title by finishing second in the Rally of France. He succeeded Didier Auriol, who was France #39;s only other world champion a


Lions Return to Old Form, Crushed 38-10

The Detroit Lions had everyone fooled -- except the Green Bay Packers. Brett Favre and Co, entering Ford Field with a 1-4 record, hammered the Lions 38-10 on Sunday, leaving little doubt that the Lions were, in fact, pretenders.


Indonesia pact gets bipartisan support

The federal government has received bipartisan support for a proposed new security deal with Indonesia. Foreign Minister Alexander Downer says it #39;s possible Australia could negotiate a security and anti-terrorism


US death penalty foes want Kerry presidency (AFP)

AFP - US death penalty opponents hope that Democrat John Kerry, a former prosecutor who opposes executions, wins the presidency from George W. Bush, who strongly supports the death penalty.


Zarqawi Movement Vows al-Qaida Allegiance

BAGHDAD, Iraq - The most feared militant group in Iraq, the movement of terror mastermind Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, declared its allegiance to Osama bin Laden on Sunday, saying it had agreed with al-Qaida over strategy and the need for unity against "the enemies of Islam."   The declaration, which began with a Quranic verse encouraging Muslim unity, said al-Zarqawi considered bin Laden "the best leader for Islam's armies against all infidels and apostates."   It said the two had been in communication eight months ago and "viewpoints were exchanged" before the dialogue was interrupted.   "God soon blessed us with a resumption in communication, and the dignified brothers in al-Qaida understood the strategy of Tawhid and Jihad," the statement said...


Some Detainees Said Returning to Terror

WASHINGTON - Despite gaining their freedom by signing pledges to renounce violence, at least seven former prisoners of the United States at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, have returned to terrorism, at times with deadly consequences.    At least two are believed to have died in fighting in Afghanistan, and a third was recaptured during a raid of a suspected training camp in Afghanistan, said Lt...


Pats Beat Seahawks, Extend Win Streak

FOXBORO, Mass. - The New England Patriots stopped a late Seattle comeback to beat the Seahawks 30-20 Sunday, running their streak to 20 wins, including playoffs...


U.S. Ground, Air Attacks Pound Fallujah

BAGHDAD, Iraq - U.S. troops pounded the insurgent stronghold of Fallujah with airstrikes and tank fire Sunday, and the Iraqi government appealed to residents of the city to expel "foreign terrorists" and "murderers" to prevent an all-out attack...


Risk consultant Kroll names new CEO

NEW YORK -- Risk consultant Kroll Inc. on Sunday named a new chief executive to replace Michael G. Cherkasky, the new head of Marsh Inc.


Archos announces iPod Mini sized 20Gb MP3 player

Archos, has launched an ultra small MP3 player to not only challenge the iPod, but also the iPod Mini. The player - entitled the Gmini XS200 measures just 7.6 x 5.9 x 1.9cm and weights 120g even though it can store up to 5,000 songs.


African mini summit on Darfur opens in Libya

An African mini summit on theDarfur issue, which brought together leaders from Libya, Sudan,Egypt, Nigeria and Chad, opened here Sunday.


Annan says world no safer

The Iraq war has done little to increase security across the world or halt the activities of international terrorists, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan says.


Explosion wounds at least two people at an airport in Kenya

An explosion went off Sunday at an airport in Kenya #39;s capital, wounding at least two people Sunday and prompting authorities to seal off the facility to air traffic, witnesses said.


Taliban #39;s sense of humour fails TV test

Television stations in two Arab states have abandoned plans to broadcast a soap opera set in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, after an internet threat to  quot;strike quot; against the actors and executives involved.


JD Power Reportedly Exploring Sale

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- JD Power  amp; Associates, the research firm best known for its surveys of cars and other consumer products, has hired a firm to explore options that could include selling the privately held company, according to newspaper reports.


McNealy: Pulling Out A Tough Quarter At Sun

Keep praising your troops and maybe they #39;ll win the fight. Sun Microsystems (nasdaq: SUNW - news - people ) Chief Executive Scott McNealy saw good in earnings that were somewhat worse than expected.


UPDATE 3-Valencia defeat leaves Barca five points clear

Valencia suffered a 2-1 defeat at home to nine-man Sevilla on Sunday to leave Barcelona five points clear at the top of the Primera Liga table.


The Monday Interview: Leader of the Movement for Democratic Change

Zimbabwe #39;s main opposition leader is relaxing today in his bungalow in Harare, having just escaped a death sentence for treason.


Buttiglione singles out a new target: lone parents

The new European Commission president, Jose Manuel Barroso, is under mounting pressure to strip Italy #39;s designated justice commissioner, of his role in anti-discrimination policy after he made another gaffe at the weekend.


Investigators find data recorder at Halifax crash site

HALIFAX - Investigators have recovered the flight data recorders from the wreckage of the cargo jet that crashed at Halifax International Airport last week.


China Sends 95 Riot Police to Join UN Peacekeepers in Haiti

China sent 95 riot police to join United Nations #39; peacekeepers in Haiti to help increase security in the Caribbean island nation, the poorest in the Western Hemisphere, the official Chinese news agency Xinhua said.


Chinese Showcase Fuel-Saving Cars (AP)

AP - The Habo No. 1 looks like any one of the legions of Volkswagen sedans in China. But a peek under the hood reveals an array of chrome canisters instead of the usual engine  #151; the Habo is fueled not by gas but hydrogen peroxide.


NFL Wrap: Patriots Roll to 20th Straight Win (Reuters)

Reuters - Corey Dillon rushed for 105 yards and\two touchdowns as the New England Patriots won their 20th\consecutive game, defeating the Seattle Seahawks 30-20 in


Auburn Downplays National Title Hopes (AP)

AP - There was some national championship talk going on in the locker room at Auburn's Jordan-Hare Stadium.


McNulty Runs Away With SBC Championship (AP)

AP - Mark McNulty shot a 6-under 65 Sunday to win the SBC Championship by eight strokes over Gary McCord, the largest margin of victory in a 54-hole Champions Tour event this season.


GIs Who Refused Job Had Unarmored Trucks (AP)

AP - The U.S. Army Reserve soldiers who refused orders to drive a dangerous route were members of one of a few supply units whose trucks are still unarmored, their commanding general said Sunday.


Libyan leader Gadhafi hosts mini-summit on Sudan's Darfur conflict (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - TRIPOLI, Libya (AP) - Saying they hoped African leaders could solve what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis without sanctions, the leaders of Egypt, Chad, Nigeria and Libya discussed the crisis in Sudan's Darfur region with the Sudanese president Monday.


Bid-fixing claim shakes insurers

Several years ago, the manager of a big insurance company received an odd request from a counterpart at Marsh  amp; McLennan, the world #39;s largest insurance broker.


Greenspan: 2004 Oil Prices No  #39;74 Flashback

Will today #39;s careening crude oil prices reprise That  #39;70s Show? Not according to Alan Greenspan. The Federal Reserve chairman said this year #39;s price climbs will likely have a far gentler impact on the economy


China Netcom files for IPO

HONG KONG China Netcom Group (Hong Kong), controlled by the second-largest fixed-line phone operator in China, has filed with US regulators to raise as much as \$1.


US quality analyst seeks finance

DETROIT JD Power  amp; Associates, the company millions of people turn to for quality rankings on everything from cars to cameras, is exploring the possibility of putting itself up for sale.


MIG wins bid for US toll bridge

Macquarie Infrastructure Group on Monday confirmed it had been selected as preferred bidder for 100 per cent of the Chicago Skyway toll bridge concession.


Apple iTunes sold more than 150 million songs

Apple has revealed that it has sold more than 150 million songs trough its online music store, iTunes. The company said that iTunes users are now downloading more than four million songs a week, a rate of over 200 million songs a year.


Apple unveils new  #39;mini #39; stores

OCTOBER 14, 2004 (MACCENTRAL) - At a private viewing at Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto, Calif., Apple Computer Inc. today unveiled a new 750-square-foot  quot;mini quot; design for its retail store.


Mercy! Longest night at Fenway

BOSTON - They have outpitched them, outhit them, beaten them early and run away from them late. Saturday night, the New York Yankees went after Boston with the truncheon.


Astros Lead Cards 6-5 After Seven Innings

St. Louis Cardinals #39; Albert Pujols (5) scores on a sacrifice fly ball in the third inning against the Houston Astros during Game 4 of the National League Championship Series in Houston, Sunday Oct. 17, 2004.


Lisbie saves Charlton #39;s centenary celebrations

Given the nostalgia surrounding yesterday #39;s game at the Valley, it would have been cruel to deny Charlton at least a point, so a draw in the rain of south-east London was a fair result.


Soccer: Adriano paces Inter Milan

The Brazilian striker Adriano scored two goals Sunday as Inter Milan beat Udinese, 3-1, in Serie A. An Andrea Pirlo strike gave AC Milan a 1-0 victory at Cagliari, moving Milan three points behind first-place Juventus.


NFL Wrap: Patriots Roll to 20th Straight Win

Corey Dillon rushed for 105 yards and two touchdowns as the New England Patriots won their 20th consecutive game, defeating the Seattle Seahawks 30-20 in National Football League action in Foxboro on Sunday.


Butcher hails  #39;barrier #39; Klos

TERRY Butcher, the Motherwell manager, last night drew comparisons between Rangers goalkeeper Stefan Klos and his record-breaking former Ibrox team-mate Chris Woods after the German defied his side at Fir Park.


Week 6: Sunday Stud

Our Week 6 candidates for Sunday Stud include Jeff Garcia, who led the Cleveland Browns to a 34-17 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, and Clinton Portis, who rushed for 171 yards to help the Redskins break their four-game losing streak.


Sherman #39;s talk propels Packers over Lions

Brett Favre and Darren Sharper have forgotten more motivational speeches than they can remember. If the Green Bay Packers bounce back this season from their


Jets shake off slow start, stay undefeated

Chad Pennington could feel the pressure of trying to make franchise history weighing down his teammates. Trailing 14-3 at halftime, Pennington spoke up in the locker room.


Belarus Leader Wins Vote to Extend Mandate -Official

Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko secured approval in a referendum to run for a third term in office, the top election official said Monday.


Sudan Needs Help to End Darfur Crisis - Egypt

Sudan #39;s government has agreed with African leaders meeting in Libya Sunday to do its best to end the conflict in Darfur that has displaced about 1.5 million people, a senior Egyptian official said.


Kenyan Airport Blast Injures at Least Two

A fire truck prepares to leave after it extinguished a fire, Sunday, 17 Oct, 2004 at Nairobi #39;s Wilson airport after an explosion shook the building.


Iraqi Christians struggle to stay

Inside the gutted church, with the acrid scent of burning still thick and the crunch of charcoal under foot, Iraqi Christians baptized Savio Mar Georgis.


Baseball: Yankees add page to long Red Sox tale of misery

BOSTON At the First Baptist Church here, a few blocks from Fenway Park at the corner of Commonwealth and Clarendon, the subject for this Sunday #39;s service is:  quot;Why Does God Allow Suffering?


Broncos 31, Raiders 3

Jake Plummer and Reuben Droughns did little wrong while turning the Denver Broncos #39; biggest rivalry into a rout. On the other hand, Kerry Collins and Oakland #39;s offense did almost nothing right -- and the furious


Haiti #39;s Leader Says Aristide Is Behind Violence

Haiti #39;s interim prime minister on Sunday accused the ousted president, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, of directing a wave of violence from exile, while


Tokyo Stocks Seen Moving Little (Reuters)

Reuters - Japanese stocks will probably move little\on Monday as soaring oil prices and caution ahead of the U.S.\presidential election next month and its possible impact on\financial markets make investors nervous about trading\actively.


Kerry Warns Middle Class Against Bush (AP)

AP - Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry accused President Bush on Sunday of planning a surprise second-term attempt to privatize Social Security, and forecast a "disaster for America's middle class." Republican party chairman Ed Gillespie called the charge "just flat inaccurate."


Tokyo Stocks Seen Moving Little

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese stocks will probably move little  on Monday as soaring oil prices and caution ahead of the U.S.  presidential election next month and its possible impact on  financial markets make investors nervous about trading  actively.


State Elections Mirror National Divide (AP)

AP - Polarized voters, almost perfectly divided between the two parties  #151; and the balance of power hanging on hard-fought, expensive campaigns in a few key areas. It's the story line of the 2004 presidential election, but it's also playing out in the battle for power in state legislatures, where Democratic and Republican control has probably never been so evenly divided.


In US senate race, AIDS-ravaged Kenyan village roots for native son (AFP)

AFP - A victory for Barack Obama in his battle for the US senate in the state of Illinois could spell hope for his ancestral Kenyan farming community, fractured by AIDS, years of poverty and illiteracy, villagers hope.


Belarus Leader Wins Overwhelming Vote for New Term

MINSK (Reuters) - Belarussian President Alexander  Lukashenko, accused in the west of flouting democratic norms,  won overwhelming approval in a referendum to run for a third  term in office, the top election official said Monday.


Will Google say hello to IM?

Google watchers abuzz about the search darling #39;s new desktop tool are already betting on its next product: instant chat. Such speculation isn #39;t new, but it #39;s gained legs as some intriguing facts have come to light this week.


Kremlin hits new Yukos with new threat

The Russian government has issued a new threat to strip Yukos oil of its production licenses, the Moscow Times reported Monday. Natural Resources Minister Yury Trutnev said


Former Enron accountant presenting defense in barge case

The trial of an alleged fraudulent sale by Enron Corp. to Merrill Lynch ended its fourth week with a discussion of rudimentary accounting principles by the last of six defendants on trial for conspiracy and fraud.


Report: Housing Industry Set for Trouble

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Homebuilders are set for trouble  ahead, with next year's earnings from four of the leading  housing companies set to run lower than Wall Street expects,  according to a hedge fund manager quoted in the latest edition  of Barron's.


Apple computer unveils mini-stores

Capitalizing on the success of its iPod music players and laptops California-based Apple Computer is set to open six stainless steel and white mini-stores.


IBM tops off Power 5-based server line

Targeting Unix archrivals Hewlett-Packard and Sun Microsystems, IBM on Friday topped off the high end of its Power 5-based line of iSeries and pSeries servers, rolling out three systems all capable of hosting as many as 250 virtual servers on a single


Martyn inspires Aussies #39; fightback

MADRAS - Damien Martyn struck a valiant 104 to spark a remarkable Australian fightback in the second Test against India yesterday.


Soccer: Battling Charlton keep unbeaten home record

LONDON : Charlton came from a goal down to draw 1-1 with Newcastle at The Valley and maintain their unbeaten home record this season.


Patriots get scare, then 20th consecutive win

Tom Brady lost his helmet and a fumble on a hard hit, then threw an interception that jeopardized New England #39;s NFL-record winning streak.


Prso stars in leading role

Rangers #39; revival continued with victory over a stubborn and game Motherwell side at Fir Park - courtesy of two Dado Prso strikes, six minutes from the end of each half -o keep them on


Baghdad car bomb kills seven

accused of sheltering fighters led by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, Washington #39;s main foe in Iraq. which involved US air strikes on targets in the city.


Libyan leader Gadhafi hosts mini-summit on Sudan #39;s Darfur conflict

Saying they hoped African leaders could solve what the United Nations calls the world #39;s worst humanitarian crisis without sanctions, the leaders of Egypt, Chad, Nigeria and Libya discussed the crisis in Sudan #39;s Darfur region with the


Thousands in anti-war protest rally

The parents of British soldiers killed in Iraq were among thousands of protesters who joined an anti-war march through central London yesterday.


Bombers Target Christian Churches in Iraq

Description: Five bombs explode at Christian churches in Baghdad early Saturday. Meanwhile, the Army is investigating a report that 19 reservists refused to go on a mission to deliver supplies, citing concerns about danger and their safety equipment.


Bomb blast shatters Baghdad cafe

A powerful explosion kills six and injures at least 20 at a cafe in Baghdad popular with Iraqi police officers.


Bush and Kerry woo Florida

George W Bush and John Kerry fight to win over voters in Florida, the US state which narrowly decided the 2000 polls.


U.S. Navy Makes Skirts Optional for Women

The U.S. Navy is getting a 21st century makeover, with a new dress code that makes skirts optional for its more than 54,000 female sailors for the first time since women officially entered the service in 1908...


Kerry Sees 'Disaster' for Middle Class

WASHINGTON - Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry accused President Bush on Sunday of planning a surprise second-term attempt to privatize Social Security, and forecast a "disaster for America's middle class." Republican party chairman Ed Gillespie called the charge "just flat inaccurate."   The clash erupted as Kerry and his running mate both appealed to Florida voters to cast their ballots as early as Monday under the state's early voting program...


Car Bomb Kills at Least Seven in Baghdad

BAGHDAD, Iraq - U.S. troops pounded Fallujah with airstrikes and tank fire Sunday, and the Iraqi government appealed to residents to expel "foreign terrorists" to prevent an all-out attack...


Johnny Depp Says He's No Heartthrob

LONDON - Johnny Depp reckons he's no great movie pinup - he just has a "weird job." Arriving Sunday for the premiere of his latest movie, "Finding Neverland," at London's Leicester Square, Depp played down his movie-star image as fans lining the red carpet screamed his name.   "I wouldn't say I'm a heartthrob," he said, as his companion, French singer and actress Vanessa Paradis, looked on...


Pentagon: Ex-Detainees Return to Terror

WASHINGTON - Despite gaining their freedom by signing pledges to renounce violence, at least seven former prisoners of the United States at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, have returned to terrorism, at times with deadly consequences.    At least two are believed to have died in fighting in Afghanistan, and a third was recaptured during a raid of a suspected training camp in Afghanistan, Lt...


Lopez Defeats Canas to Capture First Title

VIENNA (Reuters) - Feliciano Lopez won his first careertitle by defeating sixth seed Guillermo Canas 6-4, 1-6, 7-5,3-6, 7-5 to claim the Vienna Trophy Sunday.


Fire Sweeps Through Caracas High-Rise

A fire burned its way up one of Venezuela's tallest buildings on Sunday, injuring at least 25 firefighters and prompting the evacuation of nearby residences and businesses amid fears that the tower might collapse, officials said.


UK Displays Shocking Contempt

SHOCKING disdain for Zimbabwe and ignorance on what is happening here emerged in a debate in Britain #39;s House of Lords with some speakers alleging that Zimbabweans are eating grass and that Aids is their biggest export.


Switches blamed for Genesis crash

Faulty switches have been identified as the most likely cause of the Genesis sample-return capsule #39;s crash landing in Utah, US, last month.


Sports: Browns 34 Bengals 17

CLEVELAND Jeff Garcia #39;s four touchdown passes carried Cleveland past Cincinnati 34-to-17. One of those tosses was the tenth 99-yard pass play in NFL history.


UPDATE 2-Blockbuster cuts online price, challenges Netflix

Video chain Blockbuster Inc (BBI.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Friday said it would lower the price of its online DVD rentals to undercut a similar move by Netflix Inc.


England set to tour as ICC clear Zimbabwe

England #39;s tour to Zimbabwe next month looks certain to go ahead after an inquiry found no evidence of racism within the Zimbabwe Cricket Union.


Biologists Hunt Destructive 'Frankenfish' (AP)

AP - Biologists plan to use large nets and traps this week in Chicago's Burnham Harbor to search for the northern snakehead  #151; a type of fish known for its voracious appetite and ability to wreak havoc on freshwater ecosystems.


Last of Mercury Astronauts Remember 'Gordo' Cooper (Reuters)

Reuters - The last of the seven Project Mercury\astronauts who pioneered U.S. space exploration in the 1960s\remembered one of their own as a fearless pilot with the "right\stuff" in an emotional memorial ceremony on Friday for Gordon\Cooper.


Nigerian Novelist Waives Award in Protest (AP)

AP - One of Africa's most famous writers has rejected a Nigerian national honors award, protesting conditions in the West African nation and saying renegades were trying to turn his home state into "a bankrupt and lawless fiefdom."


Tokyo Stocks Open Higher (Reuters)

Reuters - Tokyo's Nikkei stock average opened 0.36\percent higher on Monday as bargain hunters scooped up miners\and other recent laggards following a 3.5 percent drop in the\key gauge in the previous six trading days.


Harmony set for Gold Fields bid - FT

South African gold producer Harmony, with backing from Russian metals giant Norilsk Nickel, is poised to make a surprise takeover bid today for Gold Fields, the world #39;s fourth biggest producer, the Financial Times has reported.


Copper May Recover After Worst Week in 5 Years, Survey Shows

Copper prices may recover this week from the biggest five-day drop since July 1999 as demand keeps growing in China, the world #39;s largest user of the metal, a survey of traders and analysts showed.


New check law sinks the  #39;float #39;

The days of writing a check and scrambling to the bank within a few days to cover it with a deposit are coming to an end. The paper check is going high tech.


South Korea to Pick Country #39;s First 2 Astronauts

South Korea will pick its first two astronauts next year for a space trip by 2007, the science ministry said Sunday, after Russia agreed to help the country #39;s space program.


Broncos Rout Reeling Raiders 31-3 (AP)

AP - Jake Plummer and Reuben Droughns did little wrong while turning the Denver Broncos' biggest rivalry into a rout.


GAME DAY RECAP Sunday, October 17

Beltran set a postseason record by homering for the fifth consecutive game, snapping a seventh-inning tie with a solo shot as the Houston Astros posted a 6-5 triumph over the St.


Second Test finely poised

MADRAS: Damien Martyn masterminded Australia #39;s stirring fightback yesterday to leave the second cricket Test against India poised for a knife-edge finish.


Browns 34, Bengals 17

A record play helped the Cleveland Browns get their record to .500. Oh, and playing the Cincinnati Bengals didn #39;t hurt, either.


Steelers Rally to Defeat Cowboys 24-20 (AP)

AP - The Dallas Cowboys spent a week comparing Steelers rookie quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to a young Dan Marino. How about some Terry Bradshaw to go with it? Roethlisberger completed 21 of 25 passes and two touchdowns, completing 11 straight throws on the Steelers' last two scoring drives Sunday, leading Pittsburgh to a 24-20 comeback win over the Cowboys.


Chinese Riot Police Heading for Haiti

China has sent a contingent of riot police to Haiti to assist United Nations peacekeepers in the troubled Caribbean nation. Authorities in Beijing say the force of 95 police, which includes 13 women officers, left the Chinese capital for Haiti Sunday.


News Analysis: Questions arise on democracy at the EU

BRUSSELS The dispute that engulfed Rocco Buttiglione and the 732-member European Parliament last week was partly about a prospective member of Europe #39;s executive body professing unacceptable views and the legislature rising up to censure him.


Record-Tying Beltran Blasts Astros Into Series Tie

HOUSTON (Reuters) - Carlos Beltran's record-tying eighth  post-season home run capped the Houston Astros' 6-5 comeback  win over the St Louis Cardinals to even the National League  Championship Series at two games apiece on Sunday.


Brent Geiberger Emulates Father Al for PGA Tour First

GREENSBORO, North Carolina (Reuters) - Brent Geiberger  followed his father Al in winning the \$4.8 million Greensboro  Classic Sunday, the first time ever that father and son have  won the same PGA Tour event.


Patriots Extend Winning Streak

The New England Patriots stopped a late Seattle comeback to beat the Seahawks, running their streak to 20 wins.


Beltran's Bat Ties Series

Carlos Beltran homers in a record fifth consecutive postseason game in the eighth inning to carry the Astros over the Cardinals, 6-5, knotting the series at two games apiece.


Patriots Win 20th Straight

The New England Patriots stop a late Seattle comeback to beat the Seahawks, 30-20, on Sunday, running their streak to 20 wins.


7 DAYS

MONDAY
NFL ON DEMAND
EXTENDED HIGHLIGHTS
With the addition of the NFL Network to Comcast and Starpower cable, digital subscribers can now access free highlights of every NFL game. Minus broadcast network mumbo-jumbo commentary, the highlights last eight to 20 minutes...


Starting Lineup

While the late-season efforts of such Texans as President Bush and Roger Clemens provide for riveting TV, the even more exciting Maryland-N.C. State game put us in mind of some other Lone Star Staters -- ZZ Top. Goodness, Wolfpack Coach Chuck Amato...


Busch in Driver's Seat

If Kurt Busch goes on to win his first title, he can point to the 500 miles at Lowe's Motor Speedway as the defining race of his season.


Tokyo Stocks Open Higher

TOKYO (Reuters) - Tokyo's Nikkei stock average opened 0.36  percent higher on Monday as bargain hunters scooped up miners  and other recent laggards following a 3.5 percent drop in the  key gauge in the previous six trading days.


Risks Seen for TV Chain Showing Film About Kerry

This week, the 62 stations controlled by the Sinclair Broadcasting Group plan to show a documentary about John Kerry's antiwar activities 30 years ago. The film could negatively affect both Mr. Kerry and Sinclair.


Investor Suit at Disney Puts Exits in a Spotlight

Just when it appeared Michael D. Eisner, the chief of the Disney, could begin enjoying his final years in charge, a lawsuit threatens to dredge up embarrassing details of his two-decade reign.


Google Envy Is Fomenting Search Wars

Propelled by Google envy, new players and Internet industry giants are rushing into the online search market.


Ford to Offer Sirius Radio as an Option in More Cars

Ford plans to offer Sirius Satellite Radio in more of its cars and trucks and that it will begin installing the systems at the factory.


Eisner vs Ovitz: this time in court

A different Michael is about to take center stage at Walt Disney Co. On Wednesday a nasty and grueling battle between Disney shareholders


Japanese Automakers #39; Stocks Such as Toyota Gain; NEC Declines

Japanese automakers #39; stocks such as Toyota Motor Corp. rose after a US government report showed retail sales gained more than some economists expected.


Multiplex, Westfield Lodge \$1 Billion Joint Bid for Chelsfield

Multiplex Group, Westfield Group and the billionaire brothers Simon and David Reuben lodged their 585 million- pound (\$1.05 billion) bid for Chelsfield Plc, saying they expect the transaction to close in November.


Google Envy Is Fomenting Search Wars

Propelled by Google envy, new players and Internet industry giants are rushing into the online search market, setting off a burst of activity that contrasts sharply with the lull after the dot-com collapse.


Prepaid College Plan enrollment begins Monday

Stanley G. Tate, Chairman of the Florida Prepaid College Board, announced Friday that the program is expected to top a record one million total plans statewide by the close of this year #39;s enrollment.


Starbucks launches first of  quot;music bars quot; for CD burning

Coffee shop giant Starbucks said it was launching the first of its  quot;music bars quot; where customers can listen to digital recordings and burn their own CDs.


Four sentenced for online porn

Four men were sentenced to termed imprisonment Thursday in Beijing for creating and profiting from pornographic websites. Liang Hongbin, Li Yufei, Yu Jianhong, and Chen Dong #39;s pornographic


India Needs 210 Runs to Tie Test Cricket Series With Australia

India #39;s cricketers need another 210 runs today to beat Australia in the second Test in Chennai and tie their four-match series at 1-1.


Sorenstam takes California title

Sweden #39;s Annika Sorenstam overhauled a three-shot deficit in the last five holes to win a record fourth Samsung World Championship in California.


Ray Boone, patriarch of three-generation baseball family, dies at <b>...</b>

Two-time All-Star Ray Boone, patriarch of a three-generation baseball family, died early Sunday following a long illness. He was 81.


Israel Feuds With Agency Set Up to Aid Palestinians

For years, Israel has feuded with the United Nations refugee agency for Palestinians over a wide range of issues, and recently Israel thought it had found a smoking gun to press its case.


France promises to fight anti-Semitism

French Foreign Minister Michel Barnier, visiting Israel to patch up tense relations, promised on Sunday that his country would do all it could to fight anti-Semitism.


Howard seeks apology over Liverpool article

LONDON: The leader of Britain #39;s main opposition party yesterday ordered a legislator to apologise for a magazine article that depicted the people of Liverpool as sentimental victims who nurse a  quot;tribal grievance quot; against the rest of society.


Spartans outplayed by George Washington in first round of BB amp;T <b>...</b>

Washington, DC - The No. 11 MSU basketball team lost 96-83 to George Washington Saturday afternoon in the first-round of the BB amp;T Classic.


LionOre Mining offers \$208M US to acquire MPI Mines Ltd. of <b>...</b>

TORONTO (CP) - LionOre Mining International Ltd., a global company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, has made a \$208 million US friendly bid to acquire Australia #39;s MPI Mines Ltd.


Just when it appeared that Michael D. Eisner, the chief executive of the Walt Disney Company, could begin enjoying the company #39;s turnaround and his final years in


Bid launched for property firm Chelsfield

Global shopping mall owner Westfield Group, Australian developer Multiplex Group and Britain #39;s Reuben brothers have launched a planned 585 million pounds bid for Duelguide, owner of the UK property firm Chelsfield.


Lions shoot blanks vs. Pack

The Lions had a chance to make a statement and a stand in the NFC North division race Sunday and --in fairness to the coach -- their performance defied description.


Ray Boone passes away at 81

Ray Boone, a two-time All-Star for the Tigers who became better known as the patriarch of the first-ever three-generation family of All-Stars, has passed away following a long illness at the age of 81.


iPod, DVD Players Lead Aug. Electronics Prices Lower (Reuters)

Reuters - Price declines for U.S. consumer\electronics accelerated in August, fueled by discounted price\cuts for the popular iPod digital music player and traditional\DVD players, according to an industry study prepared for\Reuters.


African leaders discuss Darfur in Libya

A summit of African leaders on the crisis in the Sudanese region of Darfur opened Sunday in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, the BBC reported.


Envoy pleads for Bigley #39;s body

Baghdad - The killers of Kenneth Bigley were asked on Sunday to return his body to end the  quot;agonising wait quot; for his family and to  quot;finally allow them to lay him to rest quot;, in an appeal by the British ambassador to Iraq.


Sudan Needs Help to End Darfur Crisis - Egypt (Reuters)

Reuters - Sudan's government has agreed with\African leaders meeting in Libya Sunday to do its best to end\the conflict in Darfur that has displaced about 1.5 million\people, a senior Egyptian official said.


Tampa Newspaper Withholds Endorsement (AP)

AP - In a break with tradition, The Tampa Tribune, a Republican standard-bearer for decades, refused Sunday to endorse anyone for president for the first time since 1964.


U.S. Commander in Iraq Faulted Supply Chain --Report

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The former top U.S. commander in  Iraq complained last winter to the Pentagon that a poor supply  situation was threatening the Army's ability to fight, The  Washington Post reported on its Web site on Sunday.


Lehman finishes T-4 at Greensboro

GREENSBORO, NC -- Tom Lehman called a one-stroke penalty on himself during Sunday #39;s final round of the Chrysler Classic of Greensboro.


Primera Liga reports

Bilbao moved away from the relegation zone with a scarcely deserved victory. Ismael Urzaiz put the home side in front when he headed in a Francisco Yeste free kick in the 33rd minute.


With Each Technology Advance, a Scourge

Internet advertisers face a new enemy: people who click on ads with no intention of buying.


Now Showing at Apple: The Return of Mr. Jobs

Steven P. Jobs, founder of Apple, unveiled a new line of miniretail stores, making his first appearance since cancer surgery.


A Hitch in Offering Online Prices

Travel sites want to help you find a cheap trip. But is cost the only factor to consider?


Yanks Lead Boston 2-0 After Three Innings (AP)

AP - The New York Yankees took a 2-0 lead over Boston after three innings of play as they looked to complete a shocking sweep of the Red Sox in Game 4 of the AL championship series Sunday.


Astros Recover From Oswalt's Poor Start (AP)

AP - Roy Oswalt was one worry the Houston Astros hadn't counted on against the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL championship series.


South African gold groups poised for merger

A major re-ordering of South Africa #39;s gold mining industry is expected to get under way today with Gold Fields of South Africa poised to announce a multi-billion dollar merger with one of its big Johannesburg-based rivals, most likely Harmony Gold.


UN Urged to Ignore Bush Plea for Human Cloning Ban

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's national academy of science  urged the United Nations on Monday to ignore a call by  President Bush to ban all forms of human cloning.


Chinese Arrive in Haiti to Help Restore Order

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (Reuters) - A contingent of 95 riot  police from China arrived in Haiti on Sunday to help restore  order in the Caribbean nation plagued with gang and political  violence that has killed more than 50 people over the past two  weeks.


Canada #39;s LionOre with a lion #39;s heart for Australia #39;s MPI

Canada #39;s LionOre Mining International Ltd. (LIM.T) has bid an agreed A\$285 million takeover to acquire Australia #39;s MPI Mines Ltd.


Japanese Bonds Fall as US Sales Figures Damp Export Concern

Japanese 10-year bonds fell after the US government said retail sales rose more than expected last month, damping concern demand for Japan #39;s goods will slow.


Multiplex, Westfield Lodge \$1 Billion Chelsfield Bid (Update1)

Multiplex Group, Westfield Group and the billionaire brothers Simon and David Reuben lodged a formal 585 million-pound (\$1.05 billion) cash offer for Chelsfield Plc, meeting a deadline to win support from the company #39;s owners.


Employers slow to try HSAs

For many employers, health saving accounts - the newest insurance innovation - is a lot like a swimming pool on summer #39;s first hot day.


Vioxx recall raises prescribing questions

There are many other treatment options for people with arthritis, and physicians are considering them patient by patient. Washington -- Physicians are pulling out their risk-versus-benefit calculators once


Microsoft #39;s Halo 2  quot;hello quot; to the world before planned sale

World #39;s largest software maker #39;s best-selling game for Xbox video console -- Halo 2-- has leaked onto the Internet nearly four weeks before its planned sale date.


Virgin Electronics unveils music player

AP - The consumer electronics arm of the Virgin Group is introducing a new five-gigabyte hard-disk portable music player, bringing a powerful brand name in music to the increasingly crowded product space.


Volcano Watch

Update: Growth of the new lava dome inside Mount St. Helens #39; crater continued Saturday. Under current conditions, small lahars, or volcanic debris flows, could suddenly descend the Toutle River valley if they


Sony retuning to pick up MP3s.

Hammered by iPod, Sony will retool, adding native MP3 support to some digital music players by next summer. Cnet -- SAN FRANCISCO--Sony Electronics missed an opportunity when it nodded off with the emergence


BPL Interference Evaluation Tool:

I have developed a tool to assist in evaluating the effects of BPL on a radio receiving installation. The tool allows you to determine using your own Antenna and receiver installation parameters, the effect that BPL might have on your installation.


Preservationists battle Apple CEO Steve Jobs over his  #39;dump #39; of a <b>...</b>

quot;A battle has erupted between Apple Computer founder Steve Jobs and a group of local preservationists over the future of a 78-year old mansion on Jobs #39; property.


Beltran #39;s Bat Gives Cards, Owners Food for Thought

The Houston Astros #39; Carlos Beltran has the St Louis Cardinals shaking their heads in disbelief and baseball owners quaking in their boots.


Yanks Lead Boston 2-0 After Four Innings

New York Yankees #39; Alex Rodriguez hits a two-run homer against Boston Red Sox pitcher Derek Lowe during the third inning of game 4 of the ALCS Sunday, Oct. 17, 2004 in Boston.


Newcastle United Extends Unbeaten Run With 1-1 Draw at Charlton

Newcastle United drew 1-1 at Charlton to extend its unbeaten league run under manager Graeme Souness to four matches and climb one place to eighth in English soccer #39;s 20- team Premiership.


Myskina beats Dementieva to win in Moscow

In a rematch of All-Russian French Open championship match, Anastasia Myskina trounced Elena Dementieva 7-5 and 6-0 to win the Kremlin Cup final to retain her Moscow title on Sunday.


Michael Wilbon

It #39;s not what Washington has grown accustomed to, the Redskins being a defense-first team. From Otto Graham to Sonny to Joe Gibbs riding Riggo, Theismann and Art Monk, it #39;s almost always been about offense.


Looking for Revenge Against Panthers, the Eagles Get Some Respect <b>...</b>

Holding the Carolina Panthers scoreless for the first 57 minutes, the Eagles remained the lone undefeated team in the National Football Conference, cruising to a 30-8 victory on Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field.


Thousands join anti-war demo

Thousands of anti-war campaigners took to the streets of London last night calling for an end to the  quot;illegal occupation quot; of Iraq by US-led coalition troops.


Australia hopes to sign new security pact with Indonesia

TONY EASTLEY: On the eve of the Prime Minister #39;s visit to Indonesia to attend the inauguration of the country #39;s new President, Australia is signaling its interest in signing a new Security Pact with Indonesia.


Astros Defeat Cardinals 6-5 to Tie NLCS (AP)

AP - By the time Carlos Beltran's shot landed in Houston's bullpen, this much was clear: At least baseball had one competitive playoff series still going. Beltran did it again, homering in a record fifth straight postseason game and lifting the Astros over the St. Louis Cardinals 6-5 Sunday to even the NL championship series at 2-all.


Sony and MP3, together at last

Before Sony brought out its new NW-HD3, it didn #39;t have a hard-drive-based digital audio player that could play MP3s. This was a shame, because while Apple makes some great MP3 players, it could use some credible competition.


Record-Tying Beltran Blasts Astros Into Tie

HOUSTON (Reuters) - Carlos Beltran's record-tying eighth  post-season home run capped the Houston Astros' 6-5 comeback  win over the St Louis Cardinals to even the National League  Championship Series at two games apiece Sunday.


Beltran's Bat Gives Cards, Owners Food for Thought

HOUSTON (Reuters) - The Houston Astros' Carlos Beltran has  the St Louis Cardinals shaking their heads in disbelief and  baseball owners quaking in their boots.


Plan to scrap GCSEs and A-levels

England's secondary schools should drop GCSEs and A-levels for a diploma, a report says, but reaction is mixed.


Help From Above Jump-Starts Jets

The Jets' defense shut down the San Francisco 49ers in the second half, paving the way for a come-from-behind victory that was sprinkled with subplots.


Broadband pushes Europe Web users to 100 million

Wired  amp; Wireless continues its reign as the top IT priority among IT managers due to widespread wireless installations, IP telephony deployment, and other network infrastructure upgrades.


Some Detainees Said Returning to Terror

WASHINGTON - Despite gaining their freedom by signing pledges to renounce violence, at least seven former prisoners of the United States at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, have returned to terrorism, at times with deadly consequences.    At least two are believed to have died in fighting in Afghanistan, and a third was recaptured during a raid of a suspected training camp in Afghanistan, Lt...


Lion Nathan makes writedowns

Trans-Tasman beer and wine group Lion Nathan Ltd will concentrate on its premium wine business after making \$72 million in writedowns, mostly to its Australian wine business.


Contractual Obligations

The Wizards have eight potential free agents on the roster, including projected starters Larry Hughes, Brendan Haywood and Kwame Brown.


United Win in Season Finale

D.C. United beats the MetroStars, 3-2, Sunday night in a tuneup for their first-round playoff series.


Chinese Arrive in Haiti to Help Restore Order

A contingent of 95 riot police from China arrived in Haiti on Sunday to help restore order in the Caribbean nation plagued with gang and political violence


Sox Ace Eyes Return

Boston pitcher Curt Schilling threw in the bullpen for the second time in three days Sunday, but it was unclear whether he would be available for the rest of the ALCS.


Belarus referendum result allows Lukashenko to serve third term

MINSK: Voters in Belarus have overwhelmingly endorsed constitutional changes to allow authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko to seek a third tem in office, according to provisional results of a weekend referendum, the electoral commission chief has


Dollar Closes in on Lows After Weak Data (Reuters)

Reuters - The dollar edged down against the euro on\Monday toward its lowest level in seven and a half months,\pressured after it fell through key technical levels on weak\U.S. economic data on Friday.


UN Urged to Ignore Bush Plea for Human Cloning Ban (Reuters)

Reuters - Britain's national academy of science\urged the United Nations on Monday to ignore a call by\President Bush to ban all forms of human cloning.


Russian prosecutor says Beslan school attackers were drug addicts (Canadian Press)

Canadian Press - MOSCOW (AP) - Forensic tests have shown that some of the militants who took more than 1,000 people hostage in a school in the southern Russian town of Beslan last month were drug addicts, a senior prosecutor was quoted as saying Sunday.


Jordan Indicts al-Zarqawi on Plot Charges (AP)

AP - Abu-Musab al-Zarqawi, the most feared terrorist operating in Iraq and the man believed to be shown on several grainy videotapes beheading foreign captives, was indicted Sunday in Jordan, a U.S. ally and an Arab nation supporting the war on terror.


Hollywood Studios Endorse Toshiba #39;s HD-DVD Standard

Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures, New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Studios will be using the new 30 GB DVD disc format, created by the DVD Forum, an international group of hardware and software companies and content providers.


Tokyo Stocks Extend Losses, Hit by Oil

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese stocks extended losses into a  seventh straight day by midsession on Monday as record-breaking  oil prices and caution about U.S. earnings offset bargain  hunting in some exporters and other recent laggards.


Dollar Closes in on Lows After Weak Data

TOKYO (Reuters) - The dollar edged down against the euro on  Monday toward its lowest level in seven and a half months,  pressured after it fell through key technical levels on weak  U.S. economic data on Friday.


Bush Surges Eight Points Ahead of Kerry - Poll (Reuters)

Reuters - President Bush climbed to an\eight-point lead over Democratic challenger John Kerry in a\USAToday/CNN/Gallup poll released on Sunday, the same advantage\he held before the three presidential debates.


U.S. Accepts Musharraf Decision (AP)

AP - The State Department said Thursday it expects continued progress in Pakistan toward democratic rule, showing no concern about moves to allow President Pervez Musharraf to remain on as army chief.


Georgetown Attracts High-End Retail Chains

The area's mix of retail tenants is changing from mom-and-pop shops to a blend of well-known chains.


Liberal Praise Drawn From Unlikely Source

Marketer says the left-leaning groups are miles ahead in using the Internet for political advocacy.


Immigrant Sends Hope Back Home

Successful businessman Here, But He Hasn't Forgotten His Native El Salvador.


An MP3-capable Walkman is set to challenge iPod

If at first you don #39;t succeed - and you #39;re Sony - it #39;s a good bet that success is a mandate the second time around. ... la the ubiquitous iPod - Sony #39;s last stab at a hard-disk-based digital music device sank with only a trace.


Microsoft and Cisco team up on security

Their biggest clients hit hard by viruses, worms and other attacks, Microsoft Corp. and Cisco Systems Inc. are planning to work together to help their corporate customers fight back.


FASB Urged to Test Stock Options

Oct. 18, 2004 (TheDeal.com) Although accounting regulators have agreed to delay a contentious proposal that forces companies to deduct the cost of employee stock options as a business expense, Sen. Michael B. Enzi said Thursday, Oct.


Is there a future for the 1Gig email services?

We all remember April 1st when Google announced its new Gmail web-mail service with an overwhelming 1Gig storage space. Their mere announcement brought a new wave of 1Gig web-mail services such as Walla  , Spymac  and more. Since they don't charge for the service, their plan is to profit from advertisement revenue stream.  It's been 6 month now, and Gmail is still in beta stage and many competitors are joining the scene on an almost daily basis.


British Army wanted in town where bombing and murder are the norm

British troops may end up in one of the most violent flashpoints in Iraq in an operation to help the United States forces poised for an assault on the rebel stronghold of Fallujah.


For Merck, a Painful Withdrawal

Manufacture aggressively markets product before drug' long-term safety has been proven.
 -The Washington Post


For Game Makers, a Serious Concern

Public and private sectors are developing non-entertainment games whose "fun factor" ranks below their "serious factor."
-The Washington Post


Update 5: Tokyo Stocks Fall, Dollar Higher

Tokyo stocks slid Friday for a sixth straight session as concerns about rising oil prices and Wall Street #39;s overnight weakness combined to knock Japanese blue chips lower.


UPDATE 1-Kroll appoints Freakley as chief executive

Kroll Inc., an investigation and risk consulting company owned by Marsh  amp; McLennan Cos. Inc. (MMC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) , has appointed Simon Freakley as chief executive officer and president.


For Merck, a Painful Withdrawal

The two Merck  amp; Co. executives were somber as the company plane pitched and rolled through the remnants of Hurricane Jeanne on the night of Sept.


Els Wins World Match Play Title

On his 35th birthday, Ernie Els received a familiar present -- a World Match Play title. And he just might have his 96-year-old grandfather to thank.


Dixon ninth overall in IRL

Dixon finishes ninth overall in the championship with a second placing his best result of the season. He now takes a break, with a fair amount of testing lined up over our summer.


Arsenal #39;s behaviour worse than Cantona #39;s, says Ferguson

Arsenal  quot;got away with murder quot; following the ugly scenes at the end of their stormy match at Manchester United last season, according to United boss Alex Ferguson.


Martyn defies rampant India

India ended the fourth day needing 210 more runs to win this multi-stranded epic of a second Test and level the series against Australia.


Moscow urges Tehran to sign NPT protocol, halt enrichment

Russia called on Iran on Sunday to ease world concerns about its nuclear ambitions by ratifying the additional protocol of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and halting all uranium enrichment, the Ria-Novosti news agency reported.


Anti-War Protesters Fill London Streets

LONDON -- Thousands of anti-war and anti-globalization activists marched through central London Sunday, filling Trafalgar Square to protest the US-led invasion of Iraq.


Helicopter Crash, Bombing Add to US Death Toll

BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Two US Army helicopters crashed in Baghdad on Saturday, killing two soldiers, as the military reported that four other American troops had died in car bombings elsewhere in Iraq.


Indian allies haggle after poll

Haggling between election allies delays the formation of a new government in the Indian state of Maharashtra.


Crude Oil Price Surges Past \$55 in Asia

SINGAPORE - The price of crude oil surged past an unprecedented \$55 per barrel Monday amid continued uncertainty over production, high demand and tight supply globally.    The price of crude for November delivery on the New York Mercantile Exchange reached \$55.02 per barrel mid-morning in Asia, up 9 cents from its settlement price on Friday...


Update 1: Crude Oil Price Surges Past \$55 in Asia

The price of crude oil surged past an unprecedented \$55 per barrel Monday amid continued uncertainty over production, high demand and tight supply globally.


India eye victory

India resume the fifth and final day of the second Test against Australia in Chennai from the score of 19 for no loss. The hosts need another 210 runs to win the Test and square the four-match series 1-1.


Hawks still waiting for light to go on

FOXBORO, Mass. -- In a fresh slant on the standard light-bulb joke, instead of asking how many Seahawks it takes to screw in a light bulb, one wonders how many light bulbs it takes before the Seahawks can screw one in without dropping it.


Lions, critics silenced as Packers finally get win

DETROIT - By winning Sunday, the Green Bay Packers weathered the toughest week of the Mike Sherman era and probably the most trying week this franchise has seen in more than a decade.


Iran: Bullying Won't Stop Nuke Program (AP)

AP - Iran reiterated Sunday that it won't accept any proposal depriving it of the right to enrich uranium, saying it can't be bullied into giving up its nuclear energy program, state media reported.


Update 1: Tokyo Stocks Lower; Dollar Falls Vs. Yen

Tokyo stocks edged lower Monday morning because of concerns about rising oil prices. The US dollar was down against the Japanese yen.


Shares in AXA Plummet 10 Percent

Shares in Australian insurer AXA Asia Pacific Holdings plummeted more than 10 percent Monday after a proposed buyout by its French-based major shareholder was scrapped.


GIBERNAU EXPRESSES FRUSTRATION

Sete Gibernau was fuming after a mechanical problem robbed him of the chance to take the world championship fight to the final round of the season.


Packer backing lacking: Slow start depresses fans, sales

The Packers #39; win over the Detroit Lions on Sunday was better than a good dose of Prozac for fans who were beginning to sink into depression over Green Bay #39;s dismal start this season.


Yanks' Olerud Sidelined by Foot Injury (AP)

AP - John Olerud hobbled out of the clubhouse on crutches, his left foot heavily wrapped. The New York Yankees' first baseman sat out Sunday night with a bruised instep, and might be sidelined for a while.


African leaders reject foreign intervention in Darfur issue

Leaders from Sudan and four other African countries issued a joint statement here late Sunday, rejecting any foreign intervention in the Darfur issue and stressing that the


Cavs Brought Down

A top 10 ranking, an undefeated season and the ACC lead all came crashing down for Virginia in an all-too-familiar place Saturday night.


Els Wins Title

Els wins a World Match Play title for a record sixth time, beating Lee Westwood, 2 and 1, to capture golf's biggest payday -- \$1.8 million.


Exposed, Japan's Hot Springs Come Clean

Tainted hot springs in at least 20 resort towns in Japan include several whose waters had been celebrated for centuries. The disclosures of fraud at the springs have stained one of the most precious rituals of Japanese culture -- group bathing.


Belarus Says Vote Allows President to Run Again

Belarusans voted in favor of scrapping presidential term limits, the Central Elections Commission chief said Monday, citing partial results. Ending the limits would allow the country's authoritarian leader, Alexander Lukashenko, to seek a new term in 2006.


Waste Leads to Worry in Indonesia

The villagers of Buyat Beach blame Denver-based Newmont Mining Corp., the world's largest gold-mining company, for poisoning their idyllic tropical bay with arsenic and mercury.


IAEA Inspectors Expected in Brazil

Inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency were expected in Brazil this week to view parts of its equipment to enrich uranium, the country's leading weekly newsmagazine reported Sunday, citing government officials.


Cisco teams up with Big Blue over network security

IBM and Cisco Systems have expanded a partnership to provide businesses with automated identity and access security to networks. The two companies announced on Thursday that they have integrated IBM #39;s Tivoli


Sorenstam charges to overtake Park at Samsung World Championship

Three shots behind Grace Park with five holes to go, six-time LPGA player of the year Sorenstam rallied with an eagle, birdie and three pars to win her fourth Samsung World Championship by three shots over Park on Sunday.


JFK AIDE SALINGER DIES AT 79

Pierre Salinger, a renowned figure from the Kennedy years in the White House, has died of heart failure. Salinger worked as press secretary for two US presidents, including John F. Kennedy, and worked on the


China to Press N Korea over Nukes

China was expected to press North Koreas No. 2 leader to restart stalled six-nation talks on the dispute over the Norths nuclear program when he visits Beijing this week, a state-run newspaper said today.


Bangalore thrives, chokes on outsourcing flood (Reuters)

Reuters - When narrow colonial-era streets get jammed with evening traffic in India's technology capital, the radio disc jockey on car stereos turns agony aunt.


Microsoft Trims Next Windows Server Release (Ziff Davis)

Ziff Davis - Executives with the Redmond software vendor vow they will deliver the 'R2' Windows Server release in 2005. But to do so, they are pushing back some features.


St. Helens continues to build lava dome

Mount St. Helens continued the slow process of building a new lava dome in its crater yesterday with still more lava pushing to the surface, geologists reported.


Cooper had  #39;right stuff #39; for NASA #39;s space quest

Earlier this month, the US space program lost one of its most colorful pioneers - Leroy Gordon  quot;Gordo quot; Cooper Jr., one of the Mercury 7 astronauts, whose exploits and foibles


Geibergers: Like father, like son in Greensboro

Brent Geiberger hardly had time to talk, but he took the cellular phone from a PGA Tour official anyway. On the phone with him was the champion of the 1976 Greater Greensboro Open.


Rossi shapes up to new challenges to remain MotoGP king

Newly-crowned world champion Valentino Rossi expects his Yamaha factory bike will be faster next season to meet the challenges of Honda.


Kremlin Cup titles go to Russian pair

Anastasia Myskina and Nikolay Davydenko won singles championships at the Kremlin Cup yesterday, then teamed with compatriots to capture the women #39;s and men #39;s doubles finals for a Russian sweep of all four titles.


A Familiar Ring in Wisconsin

In the offseason, Wisconsin Coach Barry Alvarez gathered his seniors together for a stark reminder of their status in Madison. Should they fail to win a Big Ten championship, Alvarez reminded


Blast near Australian embassy

SEVEN people were killed in a car bombing at a cafe near the Australian embassy in Baghdad today. At least 20 other people were wounded, a US officer at the scene of the blast said.


Belarus apparently votes to end term limits

Voters in Belarus appear to have approved a referendum that will scrap term limits and allow the country #39;s authoritarian leader to seek a third term in office.


Explosion injures at least two in Kenyan airport

NAIROBI, Kenya - An explosion at an airport in Kenyas capital Sunday slightly injured two people and caused a fire that destroyed part of a departure lounge, police said.


No referendum on disengagement plan: Sharon

Brushing aside mounting pressures for a nationwide referendum on his disengagement plan, a defiant Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon ruled out any such possibility along with calls for new elections.


Anwar may return by month #39;s end

Malaysia #39;s former deputy leader Anwar Ibrahim reportedly plans to return home on October 31 after nearly two months abroad, but will avoid any strenuous political activity throughout the Muslim fasting month that ends next month.


South Africa #39;s Harmony poised for surprise merger

South Africa #39;s largest domestic gold producer is poised to make a surprise takeover bid for Gold Fields. With the backing from Russian metals giant Norilsk Nickel, Harmony will


Oil Prices  #39;Heading for 60 Dollars A Barrel #39;

Crude oil prices surged past an unprecedented 55 dollars per barrel today as uncertainty swirls over production, high demand and tight global supplies.


Axa misses on Australia takeover

European insurance giant Axa has withdrawn its Aust. \$3.4 billion (\$2.48 billion) offer for the 48.3 percent of Axa Asia Pacific Holdings it doesn #39;t own after independent directors


UPDATE: NZ Telecom Against Mobile Phone Fee Regulation

WELLINGTON (Dow Jones)--New Zealand #39;s Commerce Commission Monday recommended in a draft report that the country #39;s mobile phone termination charges should be regulated, prompting Telecom Corp.


Will Oil Light a Fire Under Inflation?

Is the Federal Reserve less sanguine about the effect the oil-price spike will have on the economy? Given the run-up in crude prices -- and rising fears that growth could be slowed measurably -- the markets


Beltran powers Astros to game 4 win

Julian Tavarez #39;s 2-2 slider to Carlos Beltran was theoretically a good pitch Sunday afternoon. It was low, outside and traveling 81 miles per hour.


UK to speak on Iraq command

The UK's defence secretary is to address parliament on proposals to put some troops under US command in Iraq.


News Analysis: Global vote of confidence for euro

FRANKFURT When they introduced the euro in 1999, the European countries that gave up their own money knew they wanted a strong, stable currency that would command their citizens #39; confidence and ease the conditions for cross-border commerce.


Reading, Writing and Corporate Sponsorships

School districts are following the lead of the rapid escalation of commercialism at college and professional arenas and stadiums.


Zarqawi Among 13 Indicted by Jordan in Plot

Jordan's military prosecutor indicted Abu Musab Zarqawi, one of the most wanted insurgents in Iraq, and 12 other alleged Muslim militants Sunday for an alleged al Qaeda-linked plot to attack the U.S. Embassy in Amman and Jordanian government targets with chemical and conventional weapons, government officials said.


CSFB, Winterthur in focus in Credit Suisse overhaul

Credit Suisse (CSGN.VX: Quote, Profile, Research) is set for a dramatic overhaul when Chief Executive Oswald Gruebel unveils a long-awaited plan next week to beat


#39;Noles In Running For BCS Berth

TALLAHASSEE - When Virginia coach Al Groh met Bobby Bowden at midfield Saturday night after Florida State #39;s 36-3 victory, he offered some advice.


Anger management

Movie mogul Harvey Weinstein scored hits with Pulp Fiction, Shakespeare In Love and Chicago. Yet his relationship with parent company Disney has been like a bad marriage.


Hole in one?

GREENSBORO -- As PGA golfers enter the final rounds of the Chrysler Classic at Forest Oaks, one question still hangs over the Triad #39;s only major sports event: Have the changes to the tournament in recent years secured its future viability?


Mahathir  #39;frustrated #39; with corruption in Umno

KUALA LUMPUR - Former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad said he is utterly frustrated that the Malay party he helped develop into Malaysia #39;s dominant political force has become riddled with corruption and bribery.


Disney, Miramax deal looks likely to end soon

The Walt Disney Co. appears poised to end its current deal with Miramax Films founders Bob and Harvey Weinstein after an often rocky 10-year relationship.


Golf Roundup: Sorenstam overtakes Park by 3

Annika Sorenstam charged from three shots back in the final five holes yesterday to overtake Grace Park and win her fourth Samsung World Championship in Palm Desert, Calif.


No racism within ZCU: ICC

The Zimbabwe Cricket Union was cleared on Sunday of racism by an International Cricket Council investigation. The probe was launched after 15 white players were dismissed for backing Heath Streak, who was


Palestinians fear more of the same after US elections (AFP)

AFP - Palestinians may well be glad to see the back of George W. Bush at next month's presidential elections but are sceptical that John Kerry will execute a major rethink in US policy on the Middle East conflict.


Darfur summit opposes  #39;foreign intervention #39;

Tripoli - An African summit meeting wound up here overnight with a joint statement rejecting any  quot;foreign intervention quot; in the crisis-torn Sudanese region of Darfur and voicing strong support for the Sudanese government which is threatened with


Macromedia stretches Flex's features

The company expands its server software for creating slick interfaces for Web applications.


Cisco, Microsoft pledge security interoperability

The companies plan to share security features to help customers protect their networks from worms and viruses.


Norilsk has not yet backed Gold Fields #39; Canadian deal

Gold Fields has yet to receive support from Norilsk Nickel, its biggest shareholder, for its acquisition of Canada #39;s Iamgold. Gold Fields announced its plan to buy Iamgold